Police are investigating a swastika spray painted on the historic grandstand at Seaside Park. Chief Dennis King tells the Current that the vandalism happened late on Oct. 7 or early Oct. 8. The graffiti included profanity, a swastika and an anarchy symbol, King said.
There are no suspects.
The grandstand was built in 1916 and is on the National Register of Historic Places. It
is maintained by the Recreation and Parks Department. Crews had the swastika covered within minutes of it being reported by a passerby Tuesday morning, according to Rec & Parks Commissioner Matt Martin.
“There’s no place for that in Marblehead,” Martin added. “It’s ridiculous. I would like to think it was a kid who didn’t know better. I hope it wasn’t an adult.”
“When will this hatred
end?” asked Task Force Against Discrimination Co-chair Helaine Hazlett on Oct. 11, the eve of Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the Jewish New Year. “I will be praying for peace and freedom of all human beings over the next 24 hours.”
This is the latest in a string of antisemitic incidents in Marblehead. In August, police identified a suspect in two antisemitic slap tag incidents at the JCC and the bike path near the high school. A slap tag is a
postal label marked with graffiti.
This spring, at least two town meetings were Zoombombed with antisemtic language and images. In February, a swastika was discovered drawn on a wall at the Veterans School. Last fall, several antisemitic, racist and homophobic images and messages were spray painted on a wall at the Hamond Nature Center. And swastikas were discovered at the Village School in the spring of 2022.
BY LEIGH BLANDER
Marblehead firefighter Liam Gilliland is deployed to North Carolina to help with search, rescue and recovery efforts in the wake of Hurricane Helene. Gilliland is a member of the Massachusetts Task Force 1 Urban Search and Rescue Team, based in Beverly. It is composed of police, fire EMS and civilians and responds to major disasters under a contract with the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
“He went down about two weeks ago and is on a new mission every day,” said Marblehead Fire Chief Jason Gilliland, Liam’s father. “It’s been a lot of search-and-rescue — well, mostly recovery now
— and clearing roads.” Liam Gilliland has also deployed with the team to Texas, Florida and California. He’s following in his dad’s footsteps. The chief has been deployed to several locations around
the country with a homeland security team. “This is what I did all my life, and now he’s doing it too,” Chief Gilliland said. “He likes to be involved with stuff. He’s seeing
BY WILL DOWD
CURRENT
PHOTO / GREY COLLINS
People packed Devereux Beach, Chandler Hovey and Marblehead’s west shore on Oct. 10 for breathtaking views of the aurora borealis. Others stepped out their front doors,
snapped photos and shared them to social media. The northern lights were visible thanks to an intense solar storm. Current intern Grey Collins captured the rare show.
PHOTO / LEIGH BLANDER
passerby noticed antisemitic graffiti spraypainted on the Seaside grandstand last week.
COURTESY PHOTO Marblehead firefighter Gilliland, in blue, works in North Carolina as part of the Massachusetts Task Force 1 Urban Search and Rescue Team.
BY LEIGH BLANDER
After a five-hour negotiating session Oct. 8, there is still no deal between Marblehead’s teachers and the School Committee’s bargaining subcommittee. In a statement, the sub-committee wrote that the two sides remain “very far apart on wages.” There was some progress to report, however.
“The sub-committee’s wage proposal for paraprofessionals included significant increases, including wage group adjustments that would result in up to 69% over three years increase for some,” according to a statement released by the sub-committee.
The statement continued, “The sub-committee has made significant movement however continues to be forced to balance the fiscal reality with the financial impact of all offers.
With the anemic new growth in Marblehead’s revenue stream any increases will need to be funded either through an override or significant staff reductions.”
The Marblehead Education Association, which told the Current last week that it had lowered its wage demands, wrote to its members late Tuesday night letting them know there was still no agreement.
“Our latest wage proposal was designed to provide the committee the time to ensure that funding will be available for a four-year agreement, but the committee was unwilling to make a counterproposal tonight,” the MEA wrote. “The committee refused to accept a four-year agreement for any of the other units, preferring to keep us divided as much as possible.”
The MEA’s message continued, “Most insulting was the refusal to
respond to our custodians. Despite the DLR (state Department of Labor relations) clearly ordering the committee to return to normal bargaining they would not present a modified wage proposal in their package presented tonight. Despite our better judgment, we chose to make a modified wage proposal in the hopes that the committee would respond in kind. We were completely disappointed to learn that when they returned from caucus they refused to counter once again.”
Other updates from the bargaining session:
The MEA says it agreed to change the job title of tutors to “instructional assistants” and proposed new language to provide job security to them, paraprofessionals and permanent substitutes.
The two sides moved closer to agreement regarding a school
safety task force and professional days, according to the MEA.
The MEA encouraged all its members to attend the Oct. 17 School Committee meeting. The union has also started an email writing campaign and says it will “demand responses to those messages” by the School Committee at the Oct. 17 meeting.
The next bargaining session is set for Oct. 21 at the Village school auditorium. The sessions remain closed to the public.
Meanwhile,educators at rotating schools are staging work-to-rule actions, stopping all voluntary work.They are entering their schools in unison at the contractual start of their day and holding informational picket lines outside of schools.
The teachers have been working without a new contract since Aug. 31 and custodians since June 30.
BY LEIGH BLANDER
The beleaguered Transfer Station renovation will go back out to bid on Oct. 22. However, the latest version of the project is smaller and does not include the swap shed or transaction hut.
“We need to move forward with the big pieces,” Health Director Andrew Petty said at an Oct. 8 Board of Health meeting. Work is now limited to the scale house, installation of the new compactor, the compactor house and some site work.
“We’re trying to keep the bid as simple as possible to attract bidders and complete this portion of the project,” Petty said. “We need to see where we are and see if we can add things back in.”
The Health Department put the $1.6 million project out to bid in the spring but did not receive any responses from general
contractors. The Board of Health then approved another $41, 575 to pay architects to redraft the project and make it more attractive to contractors.
Petty hopes the renovation, which is expected to take about eight weeks, can be done in December and January, which are typically the quietest months of the year at the Transfer Station. There will be some disruption to the “weigh and pay” service during that time, he said.
Also, beginning during the construction, the entrance to the Transfer Station will be on Green Street. Cars will exit through Woodfin Terrace.
$90K
grant
The Board of Health has received two Community Compact grants from the state totaling $90,000. The first grant will be used to develop a “public
health landscape of maternal and child health services,” Massaro explained.
“We will try to assess the consequences of the global healthcare workforce challenges in our community and we will also try to assess the local level of vaccine hesitancy that is becoming evident nationally,” he said.
The second grant will be used to strengthen partnerships and create teams to support mental health, and “build on the activities of the Marblehead Mental Health Task Force which has been meeting for several years. They have discussed multiple efforts to improve mental health status in the community, but resources to assist have been limited,” Massaro added.
Massaro hopes to use the money to hire a “public health ambassador” for the town.
Public health assessment
The Board of Health will meet with a representative from the Collins Center at UMass Boston about launching a public health survey with community stakeholders. The assessment would take 10-12 months and cost $35,000. Currently, there is no funding for the assessment, but Massaro is hopeful that the Board of Health can find grants or private donations to cover the cost.
Wellness Fair
The Board of Health is planning a Wellness Fair on Saturday, Jan. 18, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. featuring local health and fitness businesses and nonprofits. The free event will be at the Marblehead Community Center, 10 Humphrey St. The Board meets next on Nov. 12.
BY WILL DOWD
Around 500 people filled Temple Sinai on Monday night to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the Hamas attack on Israel that killed over 1,200 people.
The somber gathering brought together members of the North Shore Jewish community to remember those lost, show solidarity and continue the process of healing. The event was organized by Temple Sinai in partnership with the Jewish Community Center of the North Shore and several other local synagogues and Jewish organizations.
As the community gathered in Marblehead, Israel intensified its military operations against Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon. This escalation has resulted in significant casualties, with reports of over 41,800 Palestinian deaths and more than 1,400 Lebanese casualties since the conflict reignited.
Rabbi Michael Schwartz of Temple Sinai welcomed attendees, noting the significance of coming together as a community during such a difficult time. The ceremony began with the lighting of a memorial candle to honor the victims of the Oct. 7, 2023 attacks.
The evening featured poetry readings, musical performances and visual art displays, reflecting the community’s use of artistic expression to process grief and trauma.
Rabbi Yossi Lipsker, director of Chabad of the North Shore, explained the power of artistic expression in times of grief.
“Music and poetry in particular have a magical capacity to capture the way people are feeling when they have no words,” he said.
“The power of poetry lies in its... words that you really have to work harder to get at what they’re saying. And that really captures the challenge of using words to
describe the indescribable.”
Iris and Yotam Dagan, \parents of Israeli soldiers Ori and Daniel Dagan, offered a prayer to protect Israeli forces. One poignant moment came when attendees heard a message from Rachel Goldberg Colin, mother of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, who was murdered in captivity after being taken hostage a year ago.
Head of Epstein Hillel School Amy Gold, sharing Rachel’s letter, read, “Since then, those of you I knew and didn’t know have prayed for Hersh and us, cooked, advocated, took to the streets, cried for us and tried for us, prayed and prayed and prayed
and I felt it. It washed over me. I felt it for these long, tortuous, arduous and tormented days,” Gold said.
The event also highlighted the plight of the remaining hostages, with 101 still believed to be held in Gaza. Organizers stressed the urgency of securing their release, stating simply, “Bring them home.
Now.”
Throughout the evening, speakers emphasized the resilience and unity of the Jewish community in the face of tragedy. Marty Schneer, executive director of the JCC, addressed the
Piece of USS Constitution installed at Fort Sewall
BY WILL DOWD
A historic piece of the USS Constitution, America’s oldest commissioned warship, has found a new home at Fort Sewall. The original segment of the ship’s bowsprit, weighing approximately 1,500 pounds, was recently installed at the fort, creating a tangible link between the town and the iconic vessel. The wooden relic, measuring about eight feet in length, was donated to Marblehead by former US Navy Commander David H. Smith. He received the bowsprit — a pole that extends from the front of a ship’s bow, allowing the attachment of sails and rigging — during the ship’s 1995 restoration. This installation brings the artifact
full circle, as Marblehead played a crucial role in the Constitution’s history.
Pam Peterson, chair of the Marblehead Historical Commission, highlighted the significance of the location.
“It’s appropriate that it be at Fort Sewell. The fort was the reason that the Constitution was saved, because the British that were chasing the Constitution were afraid to come into the harbor, come past the fort,” Peterson said.
The USS Constitution, launched in 1797 and affectionately known as “Old Ironsides,” made three notable visits to Marblehead throughout its history. The first, in 1814, was particularly dramatic. Peterson recounted, “The Constitution’s first visit to Marblehead in 1814
happened on unfortunate terms. It was being chased by two British warships and had to find refuge into Marblehead Harbor for safety.”
Since the British were unfamiliar with the area, they eventually retreated, and the ship was saved from inevitable destruction.
The ship returned to Marblehead in 1931 as part of a world-wide thank you tour following its renovation, which was funded by donations from children across the country. Its final visit occurred in 1997, celebrating the ship’s 200th birthday.
The journey of the bowsprit segment from Abbot Hall’s basement to Fort Sewall was no small feat. Peterson described the moving process as “a huge
production,” involving rigger Chris Pappas and coordinated with the help of Fire Chief Jason Gilliland.
“Jason helped coordinate the whole operation. He was very nice about it,” Peterson said. “It had sort of stalled for a while, and then someone suggested I contact him.”
She added, “He was just so pleasant about it.” Peterson said the Fort Sewall installation
will receive signage and further covering to shield it from the weather.
The relocation has cleared the way for a new Sign Museum in Abbot Hall’s basement. Peterson expressed enthusiasm about the progress: “All the signs have been hung and the space has been painted. Now we have an interactive video installed, and a floor map showing the locations of most of the signs.”
Harbormaster serves update on moorings and more at annual breakfast
BY LEIGH BLANDER
The Chamber of Commerce
hosted its annual Harbormaster Breakfast at the Dolphin Yacht Club on Oct. 11, where Harbormaster Mark Souza provided an update to a crowd of about 50 people.
Souza reported that his office saw the fewest number of service calls this summer since he arrived in Marblehead in 2017.
“We had a good, safe year,” he said.
Souza discussed the two big happenings in Marblehead waters over the summer: the washing ashore of a humpback whale and the fire that broke out on the fireworks barge.
With its 1,800 moorings, Souza said Marblehead Harbor is more popular than ever. In fact, Marblehead has the second highest demand for moorings in the state behind Barnstable.
Rentals
A lucrative endeavor
Julia Shanks and her partner
John Paskowski run an Airbnb that is attached to their home.
“We’ve had a couple of bad experiences, but that’s probably on the lower end of what most people have,” Shanks explained. “My renters tend to be from literally all over the world, and they have almost universally been marvelous, wonderful, thoughtful, friendly, complimentary.”
Shanks also noted the limited hotel options in Marblehead, with only two main establishments — the Marblehead Inn and the Harbor Light Inn. This scarcity of traditional accommodations makes short-term rentals an important option for visitors. One of the main reasons STRs have gained popularity here is the significant financial gain for property owners. On average, AirDNA notes a shortterm rental in Marblehead can generate an annual revenue of $56,800, far outpacing the income from traditional longterm rentals. For example, a two-bedroom apartment might fetch $1,900 per month in longterm rent, equating to $22,800 annually, which is less than half the potential earnings from short-term vacationers.
Shanks emphasizes that it’s
“When someone has a baby, they put their kid’s name on the waitlist so by the time they graduate from college they’ll have a mooring,” he said. There are currently 2,093
far from passive income. She challenges the notion that STR revenue can be directly compared to long-term rental income without considering the additional costs and labor involved.
“I don’t think that’s a fair comparison,” Shanks said, referring to the revenue difference between short-term and long-term rentals. “There’s so much work that goes into an Airbnb. When you rent it to somebody long term, they pay their own utilities.”
Shanks elaborated on the hidden costs and efforts that STR operators face: “Yes, it’s more revenue. But it’s also more work. I think this passive income business is a myth.”
Are regulations needed?
Town officials are beginning to consider the need for regulations. Thatcher Kezer, Marblehead’s town administrator, has highlighted the increasing prevalence of short-term rentals and their impact on local neighborhoods.
“There have been complaints from neighbors about renters throwing big parties and causing disturbances,” Kezer said. “People come in, rent a place for the weekend, throw a wild party, and leave. It’s the residents who are left to deal with the noise and disruption.”
Salem implemented strict ordinances to control STRs,
people on the main harbor waitlist.
This summer, 40 boat owners were able to obtain moorings, significantly higher than the average of 15-20 in the past
addressing noise complaints, parties and other disturbances.
Kezer says Marblehead can take cues from these regulations to balance the benefits of STRs with community well-being.
“At some point, we will need to address the impact of these rentals,” he added. “We’re not saying we want to ban them outright, but we need to figure out how to manage them in a way that’s fair to everyone — both the residents who live here year-round and the people who are renting these properties.”
The legal landscape for regulating short-term rentals in Massachusetts has evolved since the passage of the Short-Term Rental Law in 2018. According to a legal opinion provided by the town counsel, Marblehead has several options to enshrine in bylaws:
Regulate the existence or location of STR operators, including the class of operators, number of local licenses or permits to be granted, and the number of days an operator may rent out a short-term rental in a calendar year.
» Require operators to register with or obtain a license from the town to operate a short-term rental. Require short-term rentals to be subject to health and safety inspections, with the cost of inspections to be paid by the operator.
years.
“We’re paying more attention to the usage of moorings,” Souza said. “I have a dedicated employee that inspects moorings. The goal is to get
» Establish civil penalties for violations of any bylaw enacted to regulate shortterm rentals.
Establish a reasonable fee to cover the costs associated with the local administration and enforcement of STR regulations.
Marblehead implemented a 6% room occupancy tax on short-term rentals in May, similar to the tax applied to hotels. In October 2024, Finance Director Aleesha Benjamin said the town received its first payment from the state for this new revenue stream, totaling approximately $105,000 for meals and rooms local excise tax collected between June and August. Of this amount, $70,440.92 was specifically from the rooms tax.
However, Marblehead has not yet adopted an additional 3% impact fee, which would apply to non-owner-occupied STRs or owners with multiple STR units.
‘Gone in two days’ Francie King, who has been operating a bed and breakfast in Marblehead since 2012 and taking reservations over STR sites, emphasized the importance of owner-occupied rentals and the distinction between local operators and outside investors.
“I don’t agree with having B&Bs in a small town as an investment for an off-site owner.
100% of these moorings used every year.”
He said people who aren’t using their moorings can loan them back to the harbormaster for a year or more.
“If you’re not going to use your mooring, it doesn’t mean you’ll lose it. You can take a year off or five years off.”
In Salem Harbor, which has 1,200 moorings, there is a twoto-three year wait.
Souza said he and his crews have been working on $180,000 in capital improvements approved last year, including replacing docks and gangways. And he announced that the harbormaster’s office is getting a new, state-of-the-art patrol boat, thanks to a port security grant, next summer. He’ll be auctioning off the current patrol boat, Stacey Clark.
“Does it come with a mooring?” one woman asked, prompting laughs in the room.
I don’t, I’ve never agreed with that,” King stated firmly.
King’s comments highlight a key debate in the short-term rental discussion: the difference between local homeowners renting out space in their primary residences versus outside investors purchasing properties solely for short-term rental purposes. She further explained her position: “Each town ought to find a way to tax the hell out of people like that. And there is a distinction between me and them.”
King’s rental, which she describes as “owner-occupied” because it’s part of her property, was converted from a former handyman shop behind her house. This setup allows her to closely monitor the rental and maintain a connection to the community, which she sees as crucial for responsible shortterm rental operation.
It is unknown what percentage of Marblehead’s short-term rentals are owner-occupied.
Meanwhile, Shanks pointed out an often-overlooked advantage of short-term rentals over long-term leases: the ability to quickly end problematic stays.
“If you have a long-term renter and you have issues, you’re stuck with them for six to eight months,” Shanks said. “With a short-term renter, if you have an issue, they’re gone in two days.”
HA rbOr N e WS
COURTESY PHOTO / GENE ARNOULD
A close-up view of the historic USS Constitution bowsprit, recently placed atop Fort Sewall, offering visitors a tangible connection to the iconic warship’s past.
CURRENT PHOTOS / LEIGH BLANDER
At the annual Harbormaster’s Breakfast: Left to right, Town Administrator Thatcher Kezer, Team Harborside’s Dick McKinley, DYC Commodore Alyssa Prince, RocknRow’s Sherry Maspons,Chamber of Commerce’s Dee Vigneron, Harbormaster Mark Souza and Fire Chief Jason Gilliland.
Opinion
On not naming names
There’s a story behind one of the stories in this week’s Current.
On Page 6, you can read a summary of the political donations — in the aggregate — by Marbleheaders in the current election cycle.
What you will not see in that story are the names of the largest or most frequent individual donors to the candidates’ campaigns and political action committees.
It’s not that that information is unavailable.
But after robust internal debate, we decided that the Current would not spotlight that information in our pages or on our website. We think our readers deserve an explanation why we made that choice.
First off, why are political donations above $200 made public?
In the words of the Campaign Legal Center, “Citizens need to know who has spent money to elect or defeat officials in order to hold those officeholders accountable and prevent corruption.”
As CLC notes, the late Justice Antonin Scalia made a forceful defense of election-related disclosure in a case upholding requirements that petition signers for ballot measures be revealed.
“Requiring people to stand up in public for their political acts fosters civic courage, without which democracy is doomed,” he wrote.
However, given their relatively modest size, it would be hard to argue that the donations coming from Marblehead have the potential to corrupt the presidential candidates. The town’s most generous Trump donor gave $4,000. The top Harris contributor gave considerably more — by our count, $56,600 to the campaign and pro-Harris PACs.
But those amounts are still a drop in the bucket. According to the watchdog group Open Secrets, the vice president and the Democratic Party are projected to have raised $1 billion or more from July through September, while Trump and the Republican Party $430 million over the same period.
Open Secrets also reports that, as of Oct. 7, outside spending — largely through independent expenditures purchased by super PACs and hybrid PACs — reached $2.6 billion, nearly a billion dollars more than outside groups had spent by the same point in 2020. While some of these PACs disclose donors to the Federal Election
Commission, much of this is “dark money,” its source shrouded in secrecy.
This is the true malign force in our politics.
In other words, the idea that we would be striking a blow against corruption by printing local donors’ names did not pass the smell test.
Still, newspapers routinely print information merely because readers will find it interesting. If that were the only consideration, knowing who gave what to which campaign would surely pass that test.
But it is not the only consideration — not when one presidential candidate has been targeted not once but twice by would-be assassins and the aftermath of the last presidential election saw a violent attack on the U.S. Capitol.
The Department of Homeland Security and FBI on Oct. 3 issued a joint intelligence bulletin warning of the potential for domestic violent extremists “with election-related grievances” to target political candidates and elected officials in the coming weeks, according to CBS News.
“There have already been a number of election-related threats during the 2024 campaign, including letters containing white powder sent to election officials, fake bomb threats to state capitol buildings and ‘swatting’ calls, in which a caller makes a false crime report intended to draw law enforcement to people’s homes,” CBS noted.
Even if the potential for political violence here is remote, there are other ways in which information about individual donors could be misused, like doxxing and other forms of harassment. In the final analysis, we did not want to unintentionally assist such misguided efforts, when donating to a political campaign is a form of free speech.
The decision not to print individual donors’ names was not made lightly. We believe in reporting “without fear or favor,” and some might believe we made this decision to do those donors a “favor” or out of “fear” they would punish us. We hope this explanation shows that is not the case.
Instead, our decision is a grud ging nod to our regrettably polarized political environment and our desire to be a positive force in the community rather than one that deepens divisions in a country already on edge as Election Day approaches.
Keep MCAS and support proficiency
To the editor: As a retired teacher of mathematics, I am voting “no” on Question 2. It is both anti-data and anti-science. MCAS is not a perfect test, but it is a valid measure of basic and important standards of learning and expressing thoughts. Complaints of inequitable impact are like blaming the COVID test for inequitable health outcomes and concluding we should stop COVID testing. If Question 2 passes it will free school districts from the obligation to keep trying with the most vulnerable learners and go back to passing them along out the door with inadequate skills for their future success. It is shameful to graduate youngsters who do not achieve minimum standards of competency.
As to the complaints of stress and anxiety, it is the teachers and the parents who set the tone! Let’s support the students in achieving proficiency!
Lynn Nadeau Surf Street
Pat weighed in at 449 pounds
To the editor:
Thank you to all who participated in the pumpkin weighing contested There were 116 entries for a 50/50 jackpot total of $580.
And $290 was dropped off to Marblehead Pantry Director Janet Parker, who was delighted to use the windfall to restock her shelves.
Matt Temme of Charlotte, North Carolina, had the winning number based on a photo sent by his parents Bill and Deb Temme of Green Street.
Matt, a Marblehead native, was a baseball and basketball standout MHD High Class of 2011. He plans to donate his 50/50 windfall to hurricane relief in hard-hit North Carolina.
Meanwhile, our neighbor, Urs Rengal, missed the jackpot by a single pound. Urs carefully watched over Pat several times a day this past summer. He has vowed to win next year.
Jim Zisson Mound Street
limited available land and buyers willing to pay high prices to live in our special oceanfront historic town. These trends can be expected to continue. With private sector financing, the government provides tax breaks for developers that will make 10% affordable housing of new development with six or more units. There is the question of how this much construction will be managed in our compact town. Major changes to our town will have to be made to find space for multifamily housing construction. The proposed zoning requires two parking spots per newdevelopment unit. Construction costs and new construction requirements are growing along with our Marblehead property values.
We need a realistic look at the impact of this MBTA zoning on the character and facilities of our historic town as well as the costs and time frame required to complete the mandate.
Anthony Chamay Bonad Road
For those who wonder why to vote
To the editor: I remember the first time I was able to vote in a national election. It was 1972 Election Day and I was a lowly third-year medical student working in a hospital on the south side of Chicago. I was taking care of a patient who likely had hepatitis and I had to draw some blood for testing. It was late in the day, and I was exhausted. I accidentally nicked myself with the needle. I panicked and found my resident for help. He wrote the order for me to get a massive dose of gamma globulin to combat any transmission. After a long wait the medicine came to the floor and the nurse gave me the dose (the equivalent of a teaspoon) in each buttock. Despite the pain I got on my bike and rode the dark streets of Chicago to the polling place. I arrived too late.
As Marblehead residents prepare to cast their ballots, Question 5 looms large over our local restaurant industry. This measure’s passage would eliminate the minimum hourly wage for tipped employees and, we believe, a compensation system that has long served our community well.
Marblehead’s charm lies partly in its array of local eateries, cafes and fine dining establishments. Many of these are small, family-owned businesses that operate on tight margins. The proposed change would increase labor costs, potentially forcing our beloved local spots to raise prices dramatically or — worse — close their doors for good.
Also consider that Massachusetts has recently undergone a series of minimum wage increases. The state’s standard minimum wage reached $15 per hour in 2023, with the tipped minimum wage rising to $6.75. This phased approach was designed to balance the needs of workers with the ability of businesses to adapt. Implementing another significant change so soon could place undue strain on our local establishments, many of which are still adjusting to these recent increases. Moreover, many of our town’s servers and bartenders told the Current that
workers in their industry earn well above the proposed minimum wage through tips — from $30 to $75 per hour during peak times. The current system allows these hardworking individuals to earn an income that reflects their skill and effort.
What shouldn’t get lost in the debate leading up to Election Day: Under current law, if a tipped worker’s combined wages and reported tips do not reach the standard minimum wage of $15 per hour, their employer is required to make up the difference. This ensures that all workers are guaranteed at least the minimum wage while still allowing for the potential of higher earnings through tips.
Another concern that we’ve been hearing lies in the prospect of mandatory tip pooling. This means that high-performing workers would end up subsidizing others, reducing the incentive to provide exceptional service and causing frustration among staff.
The bottom line: The tipping culture in Marblehead isn’t just about money — it’s part of our social fabric. We encourage a “no” vote to protect the well-being of our town’s vibrant dining scene and the livelihoods of those who make it possible.
Will mandated multifamily housing in Marblehead be affordable?
To the editor: The addition of MBTA Communities requirements to 3A was made to alleviate a shortage of affordable housing. Every MBTA community in the state is directed to identify a single, reasonablesized lot where state-mandated multifamily housing can be built. The state law required Marblehead’s Planning Board to zone 27 acres for multifamily, and the board’s members zoned 56 acres across three subdistricts to distribute this mandate. I disagree with the idea of the state dictating a cookie-cutter formula that doesn’t take into consideration the needs and characteristics of individual cities and towns. Each town has a different history and has evolved slightly differently. I believe this law is a statewide intrusion in the private sector real estate market, and it reminds me of the federal Frank-Dodd legislation that I believed caused the 2008 crisis.
Marblehead’s impressive growth in property values is driven by
This is my personal story. At that time in my life I had little time to delve deeply into the candidates or the issues, but I had some sense and I knew that it was important to vote. Since then voting has gotten a little easier — mail-in, early and election day voting. But what has not changed are the thoughts that come to some who don’t vote: I don’t know where to go; I don’t really know the candidates; my vote doesn’t really matter and more. To these thoughts I offer my own thoughts. It is much easier to find out where to vote or get a mail-in ballot — friends, town clerk, League of Women’s Voters website, etc. We might not know all the candidates, but we usually know some. And those we can more easily find out what they have done (or not), what they propose (and don’t), what they have to say about the things that matter to me and in many cases my family — those three questions. As for it doesn’t really matter, I would say it actually does. Clearly, for referendum questions which can be decided by very slim margins, each vote does count. But what about the uncontested or the heavy favorite? You might think here it really doesn’t matter, but actually again it does. A weak turnout sends a message of lukewarm support for the candidate and their work and priorities. A large turnout sends just the opposite message. Any smart politician will take note. By the way, I did not get hepatitis, and I have voted in every election ever since.
Tom Krueger Humphrey Street
Apples and cream just go together
BY LINDA BASSETT
Hot dogs and beans. Peanut butter and jelly. Macaroni and cheese. Pancakes and maple syrup. Champagne and caviar?
Comfortable and familiar for an afterschool snack, a hearty breakfast or Saturday night supper. The supper, a New England tradition, is a leftover from colonial times. (Extra baked beans served up at Sunday breakfast).
Another pairing: apples and cream. Think of what we like best from each one. The crisp crunch of an apple. The thick silkiness of cream. Team them up for something new. Apply heat, and the apples turn tender. The cream smooths extra tartness.
The combination also reaches out to the dinner table. Add chicken and walnuts to a skillet with the apples and cream. More apples for dessert make it an apple feast.
Simply baked in the oven, then washed with cream and a drizzle of maple syrup, transforms an apple into a heartwarming dessert. Add shortening and flour, tweak the directions a bit and you have pie!
Irish cooks elevate pie by placing the apples in the bottom of the pie plate, blanketing them with dough, then cutting a “chimney” into the dough. The chimney accepts the cream through the opening. The result is sumptuous. I used this recipe as inspiration for a “lazy” cook’s pan dowdy. “Busy” is more appropriate as so many home cooks are too busy to roll pie
BY WILL DOWD
The Current welcomes submissions (150-200 words) to the news in brief. Send yours to wdowd@marbleheadnews.org.
Real estate tax due Nov. 1
The second quarter fiscal year 2025 real estate taxes for the town of Marblehead are due Friday, Nov. 1. Payments should be made to the Town of Marblehead and mailed to: Town of Marblehead, Department 3000, PO Box 986535, Boston, MA 02298. Checks may also be dropped off at the revenue window or in the red mailbox in front of the Mary Alley Municipal Building at 7 Widger Road. Online payments can be made through City Hall Systems at epay.cityhallsystems.com or via the town’s website at marblehead.org.
For questions, contact the Tax Collector’s Office at 781-6310587 or revenue@marblehead. org.
More sidewalk repairs underway
Crews are repairing concrete sidewalks on State Street between Front and Washington streets. At Village School on Village Street, workers are installing ADA-compliant curb ramps and repairing sidewalks. Both projects may cause lane narrowing. Work starts at 7 a.m. daily. The repairs stem from a 2021 Town Meeting article on roadway and sidewalk improvements. Officials advise caution and alternate parking during construction.
On Oct. 9, D & R General Contracting Inc. began
crust on a weekday. This shortcut uses the same ingredients with less prep time, less cleanup and luscious results.
Baked apples are even easier, although they require more oven time. Just core, stuff and bake until tender. Don’t worry about coring neatly. Disguise any messiness with a dollop of whipped cream. When served hot enough, the cream melts and drizzles into the filling.
I’ve hardly specified a type of apple in this column. I save our prized New England Macs — harder to find these days — to eat out-of- hand, preferably while still in the orchard during an apple-picking outing. I never submit them to heat knowing
asphalt sidewalk repairs along Commercial Street, between Atlantic Avenue and Cliff Street. During the construction, temporary lane narrowing has been implemented, and residents have been advised to find alternative parking. Work starts daily at 7 a.m., with police details on-site to ensure safety. Travelers are urged to exercise caution while the repairs are in progress. For more updates, visit marblehead.org.
Leaf collection
The town has announced its 2024-2025 schedule for curbside leaf and grass collection. Residents can expect collections on their regular trash and recycling days during specific weeks throughout the year. In 2024, collections are scheduled for the weeks of Oct. 15, Nov. 25 and Dec. 2. The schedule continues into 2025 with collections planned for the weeks of April 21, May 12 and June 2.
It’s important to note that this service is exclusively for leaves and grass. The town emphasizes that only leaf bags should be used, and plastic bags will not be collected or emptied. To maintain the quality of the compost generated from these collections, bags containing brush or other materials will not be accepted.
Fire department awarded $60K grant
The Marblehead Fire Department has been awarded a $60,000 Federal Emergency Management Administration grant to purchase a LUCAS device, according to Town Administrator Thatcher Kezer. The LUCAS device, a mechanical CPR system, will
that they turn all mushy. Find their firmer cousins — Macoun, Cortland, Red Delicious, Granny Smith, etc. — in a rainbow of pinks and reds and yellows and greens and use what you like best.
SKILLET CHICKEN WITH APPLES AND CREAM MAKES FOUR SERVINGS.
The small amount of vegetable oil here protects the butter from burning.
` 2 whole chicken breasts, split
` 2 sweet apples, sliced, unpeeled
` 1/2 cup walnut halves
` 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
` 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
` 1 1/2 cup apple cider
` 1/2 to 3/4 cup heavy cream
allow firefighters to deliver more consistent chest compressions during emergencies, potentially improving patient outcomes.
Marblehead shellfish harvesting resumes
The Select Board acknowledged a notice from the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries conditionally approving shellfish harvesting in specific town waters starting Oct. 2.
The seasonal opening affects the waters and flats of Devereux and Tuckers beaches, an area designated as N21.2. It’s defined as “inside of a line drawn from the intersection of Ocean Avenue and Harbor Avenue to the northern extremity of Little Pig Rocks continuing to the end of Gallison Avenue at Tuckers Beach.”
Early voting begins Oct. 19
Early voting for the upcoming election on Nov. 5, begins Oct. 19. Voters can cast their ballots early at Abbot Hall, 188 Washington St., from Oct. 19 through Nov. 1. The detailed schedule is as follows: Saturday, Oct. 19: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
» Monday, Oct. 21: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
» Tuesday, Oct. 22: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
» Wednesday, Oct. 23: 1-5 p.m.
» Thursday, Oct. 24: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 25: 9 a.m.-11 a.m.
Saturday, Oct. 26: 10 a.m.-4
p.m.
» Monday, Oct. 28: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
» Tuesday, Oct. 29: 8:30 a.m.4:30 p.m.
Wednesday, Oct. 30: 8:30 a.m.5:30 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 31: 8:30 a.m.4:30 p.m.
» Friday, Nov. 1: 8:30 a.m.-noon
Town Clerk Robin A.
` 2 to 4 sprigs fresh thyme
Melt butter in a skillet with vegetable oil. Add walnuts. Cook, stirring for 2 to 3 minutes until the walnuts turn golden. Remove; set aside.
Add apples to the pan. Cook stirring, over medium-high heat, until they soften slightly.
Add the chicken pieces to the pan. Sauté until golden on both sides.
Pour in the apple cider. Reduce heat to medium. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes longer. Remove the chicken pieces to a serving dish, leaving the juices behind in the skillet.
Pour the cream into the pan. Raise the heat; cook 1 to 2 minutes until juices are slightly thickened, being careful to keep it from sticking to the pan.
Scatter apples over the chicken, the walnuts over them. Pour the sauce over everything.
BUSY COOK’S PAN DOWDY MAKES 6 SERVINGS.
` 6 large apples, thinly sliced
` 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
` 1/4 cup granulated brown sugar
` 1/4 cup granulated white sugar
` 2 tablespoons butter
` 1/4 cup light cream
` 1 egg
` 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
` Pinch salt
Preheat the oven to 330 F. Grease a 5x9-inch glass baking pan with butter. Lay the apple slices on the bottom of the pan. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of the sugars, combined, over the apples. Crumble 2 tablespoons of butter over the top of the apples
Mix flour, sugar, egg, baking powder and salt. Slowly pour the cream over the mixture and stir until it makes a batter. Pour the
Michaud urges residents to take advantage of these times to vote early. For further details or inquiries, call 781-631-0528.
MHS scholarship drive set for Oct. 20
The Marblehead High School All-Sports Boosters will hold its annual scholarship drive Sunday, Oct. 20. Student athletes will go door-to-door raising funds for $1,000 athletic scholarships for the 2025 graduating class. Donations can also be made by check to Marblehead Boosters, P.O. Box 244, Marblehead, MA 01945, or via Venmo to @ marbleheadboosters.
Halloween trick-ortreating downtown
The Marblehead Chamber of Commerce will host the annual trick-or-treat event in the business districts on Thursday, Oct. 24, from 4-6 p.m. The celebration invites children and families to enjoy trick-ortreating at businesses along Washington Street, Atlantic Avenue and Pleasant Street.
The following streets will be closed during the event for safety:
» Main closure: Washington Street will be closed from the bottom of Pleasant Street to Rockaway Street. Detour routes: Traffic at the end of Pleasant Street will be detoured to turn left onto Washington Street.
» Traffic on Washington Street will be directed to turn left onto Rockaway Street.
Additional road closure: There will also be a closure at the top of Summer Street. These closures, effective from 4-5:30 p.m. on the day of
batter over the fruit.
Bake for 30 to 40 minutes at 350 F. Serve warm with a drizzle of cream over the top.
BAKED APPLES MAKES 4 APPLES, BUT EASILY DOUBLED FOR A CROWD.
A homey dinner party dessert. I personally feel that the dried cherries are more elegant.
` 4 honeycrisp or granny smith apples
` 1/2 cup brown sugar
` 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
` 1/4 cup dried cranberries or dried cherries
` 1/4 cup walnuts or almonds chopped
` 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
` Maple syrup, for drizzling
` Whipped cream for topping
Preheat the oven to 400 F. Slice off the top of the apples; scoop out cores leaving the bottom intact.
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, cranberries (or dried cherries) and walnuts until blended.
Place apples in a baking dish.
Stuff each apple with 1/4 of the brown sugar mixture.
Top each with a tablespoon of butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Fill the bottom of the pan with water. Cover with foil. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake 30 minutes longer, until the apples are tender.
Serve, drizzled with maple syrup and dolloped with whipped cream.
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.
the event, will ensure a safe environment for all attendees. Residents and visitors are encouraged to look for a Halloween pumpkin image displayed in the windows of participating businesses, signaling where treats are available.
For more information about the event and specific street closures, visit marbleheadchamber. org or contact their office at 781-631-2868.
Parents of neurodivergent kids to meet
The Power of Speech will host a free meetup for parents of neurodivergent children Oct. 16 from 6-7:30 p.m. The event will feature a conversation led by Carrie Potter, Ph.D., and Jessica Brown, MS, CCC-SLP. It will be held at 40 South St., Suite 101. RSVP to jessica@ thepowerofspeech.us.
Museum to host spirit night
The Marblehead Museum will host its second annual Spirit Night fundraiser Thursday, Nov. 7, from 6-8 p.m. at the Masonic Lodge Building, 62 Pleasant St. Guests can enjoy a guided tasting of fine scotches and Irish whiskey led by Kate Mazzotta of Origin Beverages, featuring brands including Arran, Old Pultney, Speyburn and Irishman Harvest. Heavy appetizers will be catered by Every Little Breeze.
Tickets are $85 for museum members and $95 for the public. Guests must be 21 or older. To purchase tickets, visit tinyurl. com/3bcnpa96. All proceeds help fund museum operations.
CURRENT PHOTO / NATALIA YAMBOGLO VIA PEXELS Columnist Linda Bassett says apples and cream are an excellent pairing.
N e WS IN brIeF
FEC data reveals how much Marbleheaders are donating to their presidential picks ELECTION
BY MAGGIE MULVIHILL
AND PHIL RANDAZZO
Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee, has outpaced former Republican president Donald J. Trump’s fundraising in Marblehead by almost five to one, Federal Election Commission data shows. Neighbors from Peaches Point to Jersey Street, Legg’s Hill Road to the Old & Historic District, the Neck to the Goldthwait Beach neighborhood and all the streets on the Salem side of Marblehead have filled the campaign coffers of both candidates with at least $284,910 this election cycle as they both race to the November finish line. Donors include hundreds of retirees and selfemployed professionals as well as workers at local businesses like Kelly’s Roast Beef, giant global conglomerates like the
Coca Cola Company, public schools, banks, colleges, real estate firms and government agencies, according to a review of public records at the Federal Election Commission.
Political donations can be searched at https://loom.ly/ tsBTPWg.
Harris has netted at least $236,000 since Jan. 1, 2023, compared to Trump’s $48,910, the data shows. At least 166 of the 937 Harris contributions were made to the Biden Victory Fund before President Joe Biden announced he would not seek
reelection in July. The funds in Biden’s campaign war chest were transferred to Harris when she became the presidential nominee, and Marblehead donations began accelerating to her campaign and committees and PACS raising funds on her behalf, the records show.
Trump’s fundraising in Marblehead has to date resulted in 612 individual contributions since Jan. 1, 2023. The overwhelming majority of Trump donors are retirees, but also analysts, business owners, interior designers and
stay-at-home mothers, according to the data.
Over 400 of the Harris donors from Marblehead listed “not employed” as their occupation, while others include teachers, cooks, psychologists, pilots, doctors, waitstaff and many others. One supporter gave his occupation as “badass” when contributing $250 on July 21 of this year, the same day Biden officially withdrew from the race.
The current fundraising is far less than what Marblehead residents gave to Trump and President Joe Biden in 2020 in a similar two-year period preceding that presidential election. Biden raised $657,850 and Trump just over $115,000 for that race.
And in 2016, when Trump defeated Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton, he raised $37,465 as compared to Clinton’s $248,469 from Marblehead residents before he secured the
MASSACHUSETTS BALLOT QUESTIONS
Question 2 Educators and student weigh in on MCAS value
BY LEIGH BLANDER
Marblehead High School senior Jared Kaplowitch will cast his first votes on Nov. 5. And he’s looking forward to voting “yes” on Question 2 to eliminate the MCAS graduation requirement.
“I’m all for getting rid of MCAS,” said Kaplowitch, who is MHS senior class president.
“It’s not a good measure,” he added. “It doesn’t tell you anything about how good a student someone is. They might be a terrible standardized test taker.”
Kaplowitch shared other concerns about MCAS.
BY WILL DOWD
As Massachusetts voters prepare to cast their ballots on Nov. 5, Question 5 has sparked debate among Marblehead’s restaurant community.
The ballot initiative proposes gradually increasing the hourly minimum wage for tipped workers from $6.75 to match the standard minimum wage of $15 per hour by 2029. A “yes” vote supports this change, while a “no” vote maintains the current system where employers must ensure tipped workers earn at least the full minimum wage when tips are included. If the “yes” side prevails, employers could pool all tips and distribute them to all non-management workers.
Recent polling data suggests a close race for Question 5, with supporters holding a slight edge. According to a survey conducted by WBUR, Commonwealth Beacon and the MassInc Polling Group in late September, 43% of likely voters support the measure, while 40% oppose it, with 16% still undecided. The poll has a margin of error of 4.1 percentage points, indicating that the outcome remains uncertain.
Proponents argue the measure would provide greater financial security for tipped workers, particularly during slow periods. However, local restaurant staff express mixed opinions on its potential impact.
Linsey Wood, a bartender at
The Landing with nearly two decades of industry experience, sees both sides of the issue.
“I’m honestly not as against it as most people,” Wood said.
“But I am against doing it with [kitchen workers], because then you do lose money.”
Wood explained that under the current system, her earnings can vary widely but average out favorably.
“There are nights where no one comes in and you just hang out for the evening, drink coffee and get paid minimum wage,” she said. “But the next night, when I make $400 in the same amount of shift, it averages out.”
However, Wood expressed concern about potential changes to the tipping culture.
“I like working in an environment where I get tipped extra, above and beyond the 18 to 20% average,” she said.
“I like doing a really good job, being told that my service is high quality and being rewarded for it.”
Jayda Mateo, a server at The Landing, voiced stronger opposition to the measure.
“No one should be voting yes,” Mateo stated. She warned that passage could lead to reduced incentives and service quality.
“Everyone would kind of look at each other the same if we’re all making the same, which would not help a restaurant at all.”
Mateo also highlighted concerns about the impact on
“Especially for younger kids, you have to take this massive test and just the thought of having to pass it puts a lot of pressure on kids,” he said. “Also, teachers end up teaching to the test.”
The Marblehead Education Association (the district’s teachers union) also supports Question 2. “Tests alone can’t fully measure whether a student is ready to graduate from high school,” MEA Co-president Jonathan Heller wrote in an email.
“Right now, regardless of their GPA or teacher evaluations, a student can be denied their diploma if they do poorly on a test. This stressful assessment doesn’t accurately test students’ knowledge — it only shows which students are better at taking standardized tests.”
Heller continued, “Most teachers in our public schools want to replace the MCAS test as a graduation requirement because it only measures a portion of what their students need to be successful. Removing this as a graduation requirement will give teachers the freedom to educate the whole child and truly prepare them for success, rather than teaching to the test.”
Heller pointed out that Question 2 does not eliminate the MCAS test but replaces it as a graduation requirement with “other measures that more accurately evaluate a student’s mastery of their coursework and state education standards.”
He added that students will still take the MCAS test, and their scores will be used to identify who is progressing and who needs help.
“Without the burden of a high-stakes, make-or-break test, our students will be better prepared to graduate and succeed after high school,” Heller said.
White House that November, the records show.
It is not just Trump and Harris who have benefitted from Marbleheaders’ largesse this election cycle. Donors from the 01945 zip code have poured more than $1.3 million to all federal candidates, PACS and committees since Jan. 1, 2023. Residents supported a wide swath of political efforts with donations, among others, to the Democratic and Republican parties, congressional campaigns for candidates in Massachusetts, New Jersey, Texas, Wyoming, Louisiana, California and Arizona and the failed presidential bid by Republican Nikki Haley, former governor of South Carolina.
This story is part of an ongoing collaboration with the Boston University Journalism Program. Randazzo is a BU senior majoring in journalism. Mulvihill is a veteran journalist and associate professor of computational journalism at B.U.
Question 3 Allow rideshare drivers to unionize?
BY LEIGH BLANDER
Question 3 on the November ballot would allow rideshare drivers to form unions, which they are currently prohibited from doing.
It is not known how many Marblehead residents drive for rideshare platforms like Uber and Lyft. But it is clear that more and more people are ordering rides from town.
The state collects a 20-cent assessment for each rideshare ride that starts in Massachusetts. The amount in 2023 totaled $15.7 million. Half of each assessment goes to the city or town where the ride begins.
In 2023, Marblehead collected $7,063 in rideshare assessments. That represents 70,630 rides. The amount is up from $4,920.60 in 2022 and $2,894.50 in 2021.
According to Marblehead Finance Director Aleesha Benjamin, these fees are considered “special revenue earmarked to address the impact of transportation network services on municipal roads, bridges and other transportation infrastructure or any other public purpose substantially related to the operation of transportation network services in the town.”
Supporters say Question 3 would allow drivers across multiple companies to negotiate together for better pay, expanded benefits and other protections that would then apply across the entire rideshare industry.
Opponents say Question 3 will drive up the cost of rideshare rides for consumers. The group Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance says rideshare drivers already earn $32.50 per hour, receive paid sick leave and paid parental leave.
See how Marbleheaders donated this presidential election cycle.
CURRENT PHOTO / WILL DOWD
Colleen Galvin, owner of Front Street’s Driftwood, is voting “no” on Question 5 on Nov. 5.
COURTESY PHOTO Should MCAS be dropped as a graduation requirement?
COURTESY PHOTO / ERIK MCLEAN You might be surprised how many rideshare rides start in Marblehead.
First town charter public forum set for Oct. 22
BY WILL DOWD
The Marblehead Town Charter Committee will hold its first public forum on Tuesday, Oct. 22, to educate residents about the charter process and gather community input.
The forum will take place from 7-8:30 p.m. in the Select Board Room at Abbot Hall, 188 Washington St. Residents can attend in person or via a hybrid connection.
“We want to provide regular opportunities for people to come to a public forum,” said Amy Drinker, chair of the Charter Committee, during a Select Board meeting on Oct. 9. “They can always attend our meetings online and ask questions during
public comments.”
The committee plans a 20-minute presentation followed by time for public feedback.
“We’re not going to be focusing on the nuts and bolts work that we’ve been doing,”
Drinker said in a follow-up interview. “We’re really focusing on the overall ‘Why do we need a charter? What benefit does it have for Marblehead? Why should I care?’ kind of stuff.”
The committee, formed earlier this year, is tasked with drafting Marblehead’s first town charter.
The document would serve as a framework for local government operations.
“Part of the importance of this charter process is to document how Marblehead has conducted
its government business that has evolved over time,” Drinker explained. “This is to be a simpler, more accessible framework for how our town government works.”
The committee has been meeting with elected officials, department heads and various town boards to understand current practices. It is working with the Collins Center for Public Management at UMass Boston for guidance.
Rossana Ferrante, vice chair of the committee, emphasized their commitment to transparency and community involvement.
“We do want people to feel a sense of ‘I do want to share my feedback, and I do want to give input to the committee and I do want to be part of the process,’” Ferrante said. “Community involvement is critical here.”
The charter development process includes multiple steps for public input: Passage by
town meeting, a vetting by the Legislature – where lawmakers will ensure its compliance with state laws and the Massachusetts Constitution — and then put to a town-wide vote. The committee aims to present a draft charter to the Select Board next spring, with the possibility of bringing it to Town Meeting for approval. However, they remain flexible on the timeline to ensure thorough review and community input.
Residents interested in learning more about the charter process are encouraged to attend the Oct. 22 forum or visit the Town Charter Committee page at marblehead.org/ town-charter-committee.
Town debates clean energy in historic districts
BY WILL DOWD
Marblehead’s Old and Historic Districts Commission and the Green Marblehead Implementation Committee met to discuss integrating clean energy solutions into the town’s historic buildings. The joint session, facilitated by the Metropolitan Area Planning Council, aimed to balance preserving Marblehead’s architectural heritage with advancing sustainability goals.
The meeting brought together key stakeholders to address the challenges of retrofitting historic properties with modern energyefficient technologies.
Lindsay Randall, senior regional humanities specialist at MAPC, outlined the project’s scope. “This is about creating draft guidelines for adopting clean energy retrofits here in the historic district,” she said.
The initiative stems from Marblehead’s commitment to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2040, as outlined in the town’s Net Zero Roadmap. However, with approximately a quarter of Marblehead’s structures falling under OHDC jurisdiction, finding common ground between preservation and sustainability has become crucial.
Charles Hibbard, chair of the OHDC, emphasized the commission’s role. “We’re charged with ensuring the historical appropriateness of buildings and structures visible
Question 2
From P. A6
Students who don’t score high enough to earn a “competency determination” on MCAS may qualify for an Educational Proficiency Plan or file an appeal, according to the state’s Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
The Current asked
Question 5
From P. A6
small businesses.
“If wages went up, then most likely owners would lose money,” she said. “We would have to close most family-owned small businesses.”
Driftwood owner Colleen Galvin highlighted the potential ripple effects on the local restaurant scene, particularly for small businesses still recovering from the pandemic.
“You’re not going to be able to stay open,” she said. “Especially now after COVID hit, and everybody’s already hurting as
from any public way here in Marblehead,” he stated.
This mandate has sometimes clashed with efforts to implement clean energy solutions, creating tension between preservationists and sustainability advocates.
Dr. Eileen Mathieu of the Green Marblehead Committee emphasized the conflict, stating, “While we’re eager to see the town move toward net-zero emissions, about a quarter of the town, including many structures, falls under historic preservation rules. This presents a challenge.”
The meeting revealed differing perspectives on how to approach the integration of clean energy technologies in historic districts.
Some participants advocated for clearer, more rigid guidelines, while others pushed for greater flexibility.
interim Superintendent
John Robiudoux how many Marblehead students failed to earn a competency determination in 2024, and he did not respond.
Robidoux believes the MCAS graduation requirement should stay, even if the tests aren’t perfect.
“MCAS is certainly not the only measure of achievement in determining student
it is.”
Galvin shared insights from conversations with industry peers.
“I’ve been talking to other restaurant owners, and everyone’s concerned,” Galvin said. “They’re saying, ‘If this passes, we might not be able to keep our doors open.’”
Addressing the argument that the measure would provide her employees with more stable income, Galvin countered, “Most tipped employees already make well over $15 an hour. If we limit them to just [minimum wage], how are they supposed to make a living?” said Galvin. “It’s simply
Andrew Petty, Marblehead’s director of public health and a member of the Green Marblehead Committee, expressed a desire for more definitive rules that allow for flexibility with regard to green energy solutions.
“I’m concerned with the term guidelines. I really like to see more bylaws that are more definitive, rather than kind of loose guidelines or whatever. I want homeowners to understand that you are buying a piece of treasure in Marblehead, and this is what you’re allowed to do,” he said.
Petty’s stance reflects a concern that ambiguity in regulations could lead to inconsistent application and potential conflicts between homeowners and the OHDC.
However, Mathieu cautioned against overly strict regulations.
success and outcomes, but it has become a tool that assists in determining appropriate strategies for teaching and learning,” he said.
“It is my understanding that if the state votes to get rid of MCAS as a graduation requirement, that does not mean the assessment goes away and that students do not need to take it. Accountability and achievement data will still be a part of our
not enough — nobody can live off that.”
The potential for high earnings under the current system is a key factor in some workers’ opposition to Question 5. Wood and Mateo, both experienced servers, reported hourly earnings that far exceed the proposed minimum wage. Wood estimated her earnings range from $30 to $75 per hour, depending on the shift. Mateo cited similar figures, noting the potential to make $50 to $60 an hour on good days.
Despite these concerns, advocacy groups like One Fair Wage argue that the change is necessary to combat poverty
“I would not like to see this go to super strict guidelines that don’t allow things. I’d rather see it be making sure that we think about practicality,” she noted.
This tension between flexibility and rigidity emerged as a central theme of the discussion, with participants recognizing the need to find a balance that serves both preservation and sustainability goals.
Alexa Singer, representing both the Green Marblehead Committee and the Select Board, suggested a middle ground.
“Whatever that answer is [to our goals], like, let’s make sure it’s written down clearly. Maybe it has two or three options, but those options are super clear,” she proposed.
Educating homeowners
The meeting also addressed the importance of educating homeowners about the regulations and processes involved in making changes to historic properties. Many participants noted that lack of awareness often leads to conflicts and costly mistakes.
Mariana Vaida, a member of the OHDC, highlighted this issue.
“I think that one of the biggest problems is that people do not accept or understand what it means to live in the old and historic district. It started with the fact that when people bought properties, the real estate agents
DESE reporting, and I wonder how accurate the outcomes will be if the assessments are no longer tied to graduation.”
Robidoux added, “Getting rid of the MCAS as a graduation requirement will mean that each town would need to determine what evaluation tool should be implemented in place of the MCAS so that there is a standard for attaining a high school diploma. In my
among tipped workers.
“Question 5 is crucial because it ensures that tipped workers finally receive fair wages, giving them the financial stability they need to support themselves and their families,” said Saru Jayaraman, president of One Fair Wage.
The measure has gained support from various community organizations, including the MA Voter Table, MassVOTE and the Brazilian Worker Center. These groups argue that the current system disproportionately affects women and people of color.
“The fight for fair wages is
don’t let them know that it’s in this district,” she observed.
To address this knowledge gap, Hibbard proposed increased outreach efforts.
“The Commission has tried, but we certainly can always do more to publicize that we’re here as a resource for homeowners to come and talk to us and consult,” he said.
Solar panels, heat pumps, EV chargers
The meeting also touched on specific clean energy technologies and their potential integration into historic properties. Solar panels, heat pumps and electric vehicle charging stations were among the technologies discussed.
Hibbard clarified the OHDC’s stance on solar panels.
“We don’t want to see it [from public ways]. Then we’re no longer the historic district we’re charged with preserving,” he stated.
As the meeting concluded, participants expressed cautious optimism about finding common ground. Elaine Leahy, executive director of Sustainable Marblehead, encapsulated the overarching challenge.
“How can we maintain our historic district so future generations can learn from and experience our tangible links to history while combating climate change to ensure there is a historic district to preserve?” she asked.
opinion, this will create further inequities between towns as the current assessment rigor will be compromised if it is left up to each town to decide what the benchmark is for attaining a diploma.”
School Committee Chair Jenn Schaeffner said since the MCAS requirement is decided at the state level, it was not within the committee’s purview to discuss.
about ensuring that no one in Massachusetts is forced to work two or three jobs just to scrape by,” said Alex Galimberti, director of Strategic Partnerships of Justice at Work. However, some local workers remain skeptical. Wood recounted her experience at a previous workplace that implemented a house pool system, distributing tips among all staff.
“I would bring in like $600$700 and they’d bring in like $200,” she said. “It was getting to the point where every Friday and Saturday night I was giving away [money].”
CURRENT PHOTO / WILL DOWD
The first public forum convened by the Town Charter Committee will take place on Oct. 22 at 7 p.m. in Abbot Hall, 188 Washington St.
CURRENT PHOTO / WILL DOWD
Marblehead’s Old & Historic District is charming, but are changes necessary to protect it — and the rest of town — from climate change?
Towering sunflowers grown at the Village School organic garden won third and fourth place at the Topsfield Fair. Village School entered the competition for tallest sunflower and largest sunflower head. One flower is 11.5 feet tall, with a head that is 13.5 inches across, according to Javier Valdez, director of enrichment at Village School. The sunflowers were planted last year by Village fifth graders. Village students also entered some pumpkins, corn and purple beans in the “best looking” category.
Sports
GrIDIrON
Magicians extend winning streak to three games after Beverly beatdown
Marblehead will now host Peabody Friday night in a battle of NEC powers
BY JOE MCCONNELL
In the last three weeks, the Marblehead High football team (3-2) defeated its opponents by a combined score of 132-21, including last Thursday night’s thumping of visiting Beverly at Piper Field, 40-7. They are seeded 15 th in the latest Division 4 power rankings, as of Oct. 11. The Top 16 in each division make the playoffs that begin on Nov. 8.
The Magicians were coming off a bye week going into the Beverly game, and coach Jim Rudloff thought it was welltimed “to get healthy and also get some rest.” Rudloff went on to say, “we had a couple of extra practices over the bye week, which allowed us to work on some things. Beverly is having a down year, but I thought with the exception of a kickoff return the kids did a nice job responding to the week off.”
Captain Crew Monaco had this to say on the turnaround: “I think we definitely shifted gears the last couple of games. We’re playing better football as of late, but we still have a lot of things to clean up. But we have been working hard to get to this point, and we aren’t going to let up.
“It’s something to be proud of with the way we won these three games, but we can’t hang our hats on it, because 3-2 just won’t cut it,” Monaco added.
“I’d say the difference so far has been the total mindset. We know our capabilities, but we had to reach them, and with that said, we still haven’t even reached
AGE: 17
SCHOOL YEAR: Senior SPORTS YOU PLAY: Soccer, lacrosse
FAVORITE SPORT AND WHY: Soccer. I enjoy the team atmosphere.
MOST MEMORABLE GAME FOR YOU AND WHY: The 2023 Chicopee Comp playoff game (1-0 win in a Division 2 preliminary round game). It helped us refocus on what we needed to do to succeed this year.
PLANS AFTER HIGH SCHOOL: I’m looking at a few colleges in New England, Midwest and Mid-Atlantic. I like schools with energy and school spirit.
YOU tH SOccer
DO YOU WANT TO PLAY SPORTS IN COLLEGE, AND IF SO WHICH ONE: Maybe club soccer, but definitely intramurals. DESIRED CAREER: I’m following a business path.
our full potential as of yet. But everybody is buying into it, and you can feel that around the team right now.”
Captain Colt Wales said the big difference from the 0-2 start and now has been “our practices,” and he added, “We’ve been lifting a lot more and practicing harder to perfect
everything to the best of our potential. Everyone is very focused and driven in practice, especially after starting the season at 0-2.”
The Magicians will play host to Peabody (3-2, Division 2) Friday night (Oct. 18) at Piper, starting at 7 p.m. It’s another game against a team in a higher
division that will benefit Rudloff’s squad in those power rankings. But in the meantime, their beatdown of the Panthers last week demonstrated that they have indeed righted the proverbial ship. It didn’t take them long to show their visitors that the offense is red-hot, because it only took three plays for the Magicians to get on the scoreboard, when Brady Selvais negotiated the final six yards for the touchdown. The first quarter ended with the home team in front, 7-0. But seconds into the second quarter, two of Marblehead’s captains hooked up for the next score, when Wales completed a short fiveyard touchdown pass to Monaco. Monaco said afterwards that was a “well-called play by the coaching staff,” and added, “they wanted the outside run, because they thought I could use my speed to get out there, but then I saw a hole that one of my blockers created, and I took it through there with some great help from my teammates to push me across.”
Wales offered these thoughts on that score. “That touchdown
BY LEIGH BLANDER
Lace up your sneakers for the Rotary Club of Marblehead’s annual 5K on Sunday, Nov. 3, at 11 a.m. The race sets off from Boston Yacht Club and ends at Crocker Park.
Money raised will support a mindfulness program in Marblehead Public Schools called “Inner Explorer.” Last year’s race brought in $25,000.
More than one million students use Inner Explorer for help with stress, anxiety and depression. The program has measurable positive effects in better behavior, better attendance and better test results.
Rotary also provides a certified course in Inner Explorer for teachers, which can be used toward their annual license accreditation.
State Rep. Jenny Armini will speak briefly about the importance of mental health before
starting the race. Congressman Seth Moulton is also expected to attend.
The registration fee is $40 for adults, $30 for students and kids. Those who want to support Rotary without running can register as a “spirit runner” for $30. For more information,visit racemenu. com/2024.
Heads up: MYSA welcomes first female president
BY LEIGH BLANDER
Marblehead Youth Soccer Association, the largest youth sports program in town, announced the election of Karen Philip as its new president. She is the first woman to lead the organization in its nearly 50-year history.
Philip has volunteered for MYSA for five years. Her son plays on the fifth and sixth grade travel team.
As a professional marketer, Philip brings skills such as strategy and planning, data analysis and project management. She also has a
resilience,” Philip said. “It’s why I’m passionate about providing the best program possible for our community and our kids. I feel privileged to take on this role, working with an incredible leadership team and a small army of volunteers focused on building a program that not only develops skilled athletes but also strong character.” MYSA offers soccer programs to more than 900 children each spring and fall. Philips hopes to further MYSA’s mission to empower young athletes of all skill levels and foster a lifelong love of the game. She also wants to identify opportunities to improve program accessibility, strengthen community engagement, prioritize safety and well-being, and enhance communication and transparency.
“MYSA has a remarkable legacy of fostering a love of soccer and I look forward to building upon MYSA’s success and continuing to create an environment where every young player can thrive and reach their full potential,” said Philip. “I am determined to elevate the organization to the highest standards of youth soccer in the North Shore.”
COURTESY PHOTO
Runners in last year’s Rotary 5k raised $25,000 for a mindfulness program in Marblehead schools.
COURTESY PHOTO / EYAL OREN, WEDNESDAYS IN MARBLEHEAD
Marblehead senior football captain Brady Selvais (33) drags a Beverly defender into the endzone to score the team’s first touchdown of the game last Thursday night, Oct. 10, at Piper Field. The Magicians went on to win the game, 40-7 to extend their winning streak to three.
Boys soccer triumphs over Gloucester, ties Beverly in two NEC late season encounters
BY JOE MCCONNELL
The Marblehead High boys soccer team (7-2-4) began last week against host Gloucester (4-6-2) on Oct. 7. The Fishermen had rebounded nicely in recent weeks after a shaky start, so it promised to be a competitive battle.
Gloucester has historically been a solid team that defends its home field well, and this contest proved to be no different. A light drizzle impacted the game in the early going, and as a result both teams struggled to sustain an attack, because of the slippery conditions.
But at the 28-minute mark, the Magicians found the back of the net, when striker Miles FontelaTuttle hammered a shot past the Gloucester goalie, cleanly hitting the left side of the net. David Magen, also a striker, notched the assist. As it turned out, that was the game-winning score.
The Magicians were then able to gain momentum to force numerous corner kicks, but could not convert. To their credit, Gloucester was resilient. They played the counterattack very well in the aftermath of set pieces that fell short.
Marblehead goaltender Rory Zampese was active, fending off several long shots by the Fishermen. The Marblehead defense also performed well in preventing the home team from finding space inside the 18.
Both teams traded possession throughout the second half.
Marblehead had some success finding seams in the Gloucester defense, but failed to increase
the lead. But that was not for some good fortune by Gloucester. On one occasion, Fontela-Tuttle hit a beautiful long ball from outside the penalty box, which clanged off the crossbar.
The Fishermen were unable to get the equalizer, while Marblehead failed to convert on its many attacking runs in the waning minutes.
A late foul on Ilan Druker, which resulted in a yellow card against Gloucester, offered hope to Marblehead to get that insurance tally, but the direct kick went for naught.
Minutes later, Magen maneuvered around the left fullback and blasted a shot across the face of the goal that nicked off the left post on a deflection and went out of bounds.
It was a game of many near misses for both teams, with the Magicians coming out on top by the narrowest of margins.
Two nights later, in an epic Northeastern Conference showdown, Marblehead faced host Beverly (8-3-2) in its
first-ever game under the new lights at Frank Forti Field.
At 31:40, Beverly ripped a long shot from the right side, sending the ball spinning across the width of the field. Fortunately, the ball slammed against the crossbar and bounced into play and away from the net to keep the game scoreless. The long shot momentarily surprised Marblehead’s defense, but they reacted well to frustrate the Panthers after that.
Midway through the first half, Marblehead settled into a rhythm, and was able to penetrate the defensive third of the field more consistently.
However, Beverly continued to execute a fast-paced attack, hoping to catch Marblehead off guard to expose the passing lanes. But the Magicians ultimately were able to prevent the home team from any quality shots from close-in range.
The game remained scoreless in the second half. Early on, the visitors intensified their attack, but struggled to spread the field. Beverly, on the other hand, was able to clog the middle to play a
more compact defense.
In the final 10 minutes, the Magicians started wearing down the Panthers. Fullbacks Luke Miller and T.J. Kelly brought the ball downfield on several occasions, finding room to work, before distributing it to their midfielders and strikers.
London McDonald played an exceptional game transitioning through the center circle, and repeatedly outmaneuvered his Beverly counterparts in an effort to send the ball to the wings.
Overall, the Magicians were patient and methodical throughout the rest of the game.
A high-speed breakaway from a failed Panthers corner kick gave Marblehead another scoring chance after Zampese rifled the ball overhand, hitting his strikers in stride.
The game was not without drama, and it unfortunately fell into the hands of the referees.
On two occasions, Marblehead
players were dragged to the ground, resulting in direct kicks. Beverly, however, was not carded, despite the egregious fouls.
With 45 seconds remaining in the game, Marblehead was called for a questionable hand ball in the penalty box after a defender slid to block a shot, but in doing so the ball deflected into his hand. Beverly was then awarded a penalty kick. The ensuing kick slammed against the crossbar, saving what would have been a devastating loss. A disaster was averted, and as a result the Magicians settled for a scoreless tie against a formidable Division 1 foe.
The Magicians have since enjoyed a few days off, before heading to Danvers to face the Falcons Oct. 16 at 5:30 p.m. They will then return to Piper on Friday to host Winthrop at 4 p.m., followed by a game against non-league Everett the next day at 10 a.m.
Girls soccer wins pair; golf ends regular season 12-4
BY JOE MCCONNELL
Girls soccer wins
two more
The Marblehead High girls soccer team (6-3-4) started last week with a 6-1 victory over visiting Gloucester on Senior Night at Piper, Oct. 7. Callie Gilmore led the way with two goals against the Fishermen to give her nine on the season. Lucy Church and Cam O’Brien took turns assisting on her goals.
Also scoring in the Gloucester game was freshman Lucy McDonald, who chipped in with a solo effort.
Lani Gilmore also netted an unassisted goal to account for her first marker of the season. Church was credited with a goal from Courtney Hitsherich. Laura Botnaru scored her first career varsity goal assisted by Juliet Burchfield.
Lily Heller and Hallie Gilmore split the goaltending chores, making one save apiece.
“It was great to see seniors Lani Gilmore and Laura Botnaru
Wednesday, Oct. 16
11:30 a.m., golf, NEC Open, at Tedesco Country Club
4:30 p.m., girls and boys cross country, vs. Peabody, at Peabody Veterans Memorial High
4:30 p.m., unified basketball, vs. Saugus, at Marblehead High gym
5:30 p.m., field hockey, vs. Malden Catholic, at Malden Catholic
5:30 p.m., volleyball, vs. Beverly, at Beverly High
6:30 p.m., boys soccer, vs. Danvers, at Danvers High
7 p.m., girls soccer, vs. Danvers, at MHS Piper Field
Thursday, Oct. 17
score their first goals of the season on Senior Night,” said coach Lisa Wales. “It took us a while to find our footing, but once we did, we were able to control the play and create some scoring opportunities.
“It was a great night honoring our 12 seniors,” added Wales, “and (specifically from the game) Ashley Mortensen, Lucy McDonald, Sydney Ball and Ava Machado all played great for us.”
Two days later, the Magicians edged visiting Beverly, 2-1. McDonald scored both goals.
Callie Gilmore assisted on her second goal, while the first score was a solo tally.
“Beverly went ahead first, but we were able to tie it up, before taking the lead heading into halftime,” said Wales. “I can’t say enough about Lucy McDonald’s compete level. She is scrappy, and technically very sound and incredibly tough, who knows when to tackle. More than a few opposing coaches have said to me that they can’t believe she is only a freshman.”
The coach added that senior
4 p.m., field hockey, vs. Masconomet, at MHS Piper Field
5:30 p.m., volleyball, vs. Ipswich, at Marblehead High gym
Friday, Oct. 18
4 p.m., girls soccer, vs. Winthrop, at Winthrop High
4 p.m., boys soccer, vs. Winthrop, at MHS Piper Field
7 p.m., football, vs. Peabody, at MHS Piper Field
7 p.m., football cheerleading, vs. Peabody, at MHS Piper Field
Saturday, Oct. 19
10 a.m., boys soccer, vs. Everett, at MHS Piper Field Monday, Oct. 21
down the play when needed on
a terrific game. “Sophie often does things well that don’t show up on the stat sheet,” Wales continued. “She works hard on the high press to force errors, and follows it up with shots on goal. She layers defensively when appropriate, and also slows
6 p.m., volleyball, vs. Haverhill, at Marblehead High gym
Tuesday, Oct. 22
4 p.m., unified basketball, vs. Danvers, at Marblehead High gym
4:30 p.m., field hockey, vs. Saugus, at MHS Piper Field
5:30 p.m., volleyball, vs. Danvers, at Danvers High gym
Thursday, Oct. 24
6 p.m., volleyball, vs. Swampscott, at Marblehead High gym
6:30 p.m., boys soccer, vs. North Andover, at North Andover High
Friday, Oct. 25
4 p.m., field hockey, vs. Beverly, at
opposing free kicks.”
Senior captain Ava Machado leads the defense from her center-back position, along with the ever-versatile junior Sydney Ball, according to the coach. She also said that Hitsherich continues to play well at
Beverly High
7 p.m., football, vs. Masconomet, at MHS Piper Field
7 p.m., football cheerleading, vs. Masconomet, at MHS Piper Field
Saturday, Oct. 26
TBD, football cheerleading, varsity invitational, at Billerica Memorial High
10 a.m., girls and boys cross country, NEC League, at Stage Fort Park, Gloucester
10 a.m., girls soccer, vs. Lynnfield, at MHS Piper Field
Monday, Oct. 28
4 p.m., unified basketball, vs. Beverly, at Beverly High
midfield.
Church created some excellent scoring opportunities from the wing in the Beverly game. Sophomore Callie GIlmore stayed ahead of her teammates on the stat sheet with another assist. She has nine goals and three assists on the season.
“Callie is a true competitor. She has an excellent shot, and also makes intelligent passes and runs. She is a huge asset to our team,” said Wales.
Hailey Gilmore, Callie’s twin sister, was excellent in net against the Panthers, coming up with 10 saves.
The Magicians have since taken on non-league host Manchester Essex on Columbus Day after press deadline, before returning home to face Danvers Oct. 16 at Piper, beginning at 7 p.m. They will close out the week against host Winthrop on Friday at 4 p.m.
Boys cross-country takes two on the same day
ROUNDUP, P. A11
4:30 p.m., girls soccer, vs. Newton South, at Newton South High
4:30 p.m., boys soccer, vs. Melrose, at MHS Piper Field
Friday, Nov. 1
6:30 p.m., football, vs. Danvers, at Danvers High
6:30 p.m., football, cheerleading, vs. Danvers, at Danvers High
Saturday, Nov. 2
TBD, football cheerleading, varsity invitational, at Austin Preparatory School
Wednesday, Nov. 6
TBD, football cheerleading, varsity NEC invitational, at Danvers High
captain Sophie Robinson had
COURTESY PHOTOS / RICH BIBBINS
Marblehead High boys soccer midfielder Marc Grazado (17) tackles his Gloucester counterpart, while teammate Colin White provides support.
Marblehead High boys soccer co-captain Quinn Fletcher feeds the ball to midfielder London McDonald in space during the Gloucester game.
COURTESY PHOTO
Marblehead girls soccer senior Paige Fletcher embraces freshman teammate Lucy McDonald after McDonald scored her first of two goals against Beverly during the game on Oct. 9.
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
Classical piano concert
Friday, Oct. 18, 7 p.m.
Classical pianist
Daniel Maltz returns to Marblehead for two performances in the Marblehead Arts Association’s King Hooper ballroom, co-hosted by the Marblehead Museum. Maltz is a fortepianist from Vienna, Austria, and he will play the music of Mozart, Beethoven and Haydn on a reproduction 1784 Stein fortepiano. His stop in Marblehead is part of a national concert tour. 8 Hooper St. Tickets are $35. marbleheadmuseum.org or marbleheadarts.org
Little Misty
Friday, Oct. 18, 8 p.m.
Canadian indie-folk band
Little Misty will perform at Me&thee Music, 28 Mugford St. Tickets are $25, $10 for students. More info at meandtheemusic.org.
Fall into reading
Saturday, Oct. 19, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m..
The Friends of Abbot Public Library are hosting a fall book sale, 235 Pleasant St. Proceeds from the book sale will support library programs and services. More info at abbotlibrary.org.
to Crew was a big one, because it carried our momentum throughout the first half,” he said after the game. “I knew when we called that play Crew would be in the endzone, and he really used his strength on that one with help from Yandel Garcia, who was pushing him across the goal line, and after that touchdown we forced a fumble and ended up scoring again.” Wales also started that score, while playing defense. He recovered a fumble and ran it back 27 yards to the six, where he personally completed the short scoring drive to create
more separation from the Panthers.
String quartet with tenor Matt Arnold
Sunday, Oct. 20, 4:30 p.m.
The Centuaria String Quartet will perform works by Franz Josef Haydn, George Butterworth and Sergei Prokofiev with a special guest performance by local tenor Matthew Arnold. The event is free and open to all. Star of the Sea Church, 85 Atlantic Ave.
Learn about money with Minecraft
Monday, Oct. 21, 5 p.m.
The Marblehead High boys cross-country team (6-0) just keeps on winning, and this time it was two triumphs on the same day, Oct. 9, at Bradley Palmer State Park against Northeastern Conference rivals Masconomet (23-32) and Danvers (23-36).
Will Cerrutti (15:24) and Nate Assa (15:33) topped the ticket in this tri-meet with solid first and second place finishes. Jacob Szalewicz (16:23) ran his best race of the year, according to coach Brian Heenan, to come in fifth overall.
After an invitational meet on the Cape, the Magicians will return to the NEC Oct. 16 to run against host Peabody, starting at 4:30 p.m.
Girls end up with mixed results after Potter breaks tie vs. Danvers
The girls cross-country team (4-2) experienced mixed results in a tri-meet against Masconomet and Danvers at Bradley Palmer State Park on Oct. 9. The Magicians dropped a
Live organ concert
Sunday, Oct. 20, 5 p.m.
St. Michael’s Church, 26 Pleasant St., kicks off its organ concert series with acclaimed teacher and concert artist Timothy Olsen. St. Michael’s has a 22-stop Fisk mechanical action organ and is welcoming several performers this season. A suggested donation of $20 will be collected at the door. For more information, visit stmichaels1714.org.
Learn about revenue, expenses and profit as you create and build your own business in Minecraft. Children in grades four to six are invited to come to this STEM program. Presenters will provide 10 tablets for the kids to use, but kids may bring their own and we will send downloading instructions when they register. Online registration required at tinyurl.com/ Minecraft-Business.
But Beverly junior Xavier Auk spoiled the shutout bid, when he returned a kickoff 87 yards for a touchdown on the final play of the first half. The Magicians, however, were still in control to lead at halftime, 26-7, and that was because the defense once again set up a touchdown for the offense earlier in the period.
Cam Quigley got the drive started with an interception at midfield, and Garcia (12 carries for 91 yards) then kept it alive with a 16-yard run on a fourthand-one from the 31. With the ball now resting on the 17, it was junior quarterback Finn Gallup’s turn to light up the scoreboard with a 17-yard pass to senior
25-31 decision to the Chieftains, but defeated the Falcons in a tiebreaker after senior captain Maren Potter (24:32) crossed the finish line ahead of her Danvers counterpart to secure sixth place. It was all tied up at 28 after each team’s fifth place runner completed the course.
“It was a great race that was really close for all three teams,” said coach Will Herlihy. “Both meets could have gone either way. Similar to the Swampscott meet a couple of weeks ago, Maren’s finishing position offset the Danvers fifth runner, which sent the race to a tiebreaker in the first place.”
Marri O’Connell (19:07) went to the head of the class once again with another first place finish. Evelina Beletsky (22:12), Ruby Assa (22:30), Abbie Goodwin (22:57) and Evie Becker (23:23) rounded out Marblehead’s top five runners, before Potter’s heroics.
Following an invitational meet on the Cape over the weekend, the Magicians will return to the NEC Oct. 16 to run against host Peabody, starting at 4:30 p.m.
Sam Thompson to help account for that touchdown. Gallup completed five passes in the game for 102 yards.
The Magicians closed out the scoring with two touchdowns in the fourth quarter. Bernardo Bannis had one of those scores from two yards out. Breydan Callahan followed with a fouryard run to the endzone later in the period. It was a memorable score for the junior, because it was his first career varsity touchdown.
Wales was impressed with the way his teammates beat Beverly. “We were coming off a bye week, and still scored on our first two drives of the game,” he said. “We were very excited to get out there and play again. I was particularly impressed with
Volleyball team beats Saugus in comeback effort
After a slow start, the volleyball team (8-5) defeated Saugus in three sets on Oct. 7.
“Our offense struggled to make gains in the first two sets, before turning it around after trailing by seven in the second set to come back to win, 29-27,” said coach Killeen Miller. “In the third set, we pulled out a 25-15 win, with many of the points earned on the service line.”
Greta Sachs collected 13 kills and five aces from the service line against the Sachems. Issy Browning added another seven kills in the comeback victory. Megan Parkman and Sydney DaSilva combined for 12 digs to help lead the way to victory.
Against Peabody two days later, the Magicians followed a similar script. However, this time, unlike the Saugus encounter, they couldn’t overcome the slow start to lose to the Tanners in a marathon five sets.
Lila Moniz led the way in kills for the locals with 15. Sachs was
Breyden Callahan. He’s been one of our hardest workers this year, and is definitely starting to show it on the field, when he scored his first varsity touchdown in this game.”
Another win is now behind them, but the Magicians know they have another tough task ahead of them, when the Division 2 Tanners come to Piper Friday night at 7 p.m.
“We know what to expect from Peabody. It’s always one of the hardest games of the season,” said Monaco. “The game definitely means a lot to us this year, because they had our number the last couple of years. It’s going to be a hard week of practice to prepare for Peabody, but I think we’re just
close behind with 11. Sophomore Erin Wilder was credited with 28 assists, while Parkman was the leader on defense with 17 digs.
After taking the weekend off, the Magicians will get back on the court to face host Beverly OCt. 16, starting at 5:30 p.m., before coming home to take on non-league Ipswich the next day at 6 p.m.
Golfers wrap up regular season
The Marblehead golfers (11-2 in the NEC, 12-4 overall) began the final week of the regular season against non-league host St. Mary’s of Lynn at Gannon Country Club on Oct. 8. They ended up losing the stroke play match, 169-159. Tyler Forbes (32 points), Marty Ryan (23), James Bickell (22) and Will Macrina (22) were the Magicians leaders. Forbes was the team’s medalist after shooting a 36. The Magicians then took on Danvers and Winthrop in a doubleheader the next day at Tedesco. They defeated Danvers, 39-33, and then Winthrop rather easily, 47.5-24.5.
Thursday, Oct. 24, 4-6:30 p.m. Sign up now for the annual Pumpkin Illumination at the Jeremiah Lee Mansion Garden, 161 Washington St. Entry is free. More info at tinyurl.com/MFFPumpkins.
fine, because we’re still hungry and not satisfied at all.”
With the regular season winding down, Monaco knows every game is crucial to move up in the power rankings to possibly get a home game to begin the playoffs. “We are all excited to play this one,” he added.
But Rudloff has the last word on Peabody. “Peabody has been one of the best teams in the NEC the last few years. They have very fast, skilled players, and a very good quarterback (junior Luke Maglione), who can run and throw, and he’s surrounded by a gigantic line in front of him,” he said. “This will be a huge test for us. We’ll have to come out fast, and be at our best to have a chance.”
Against Danvers, Ryan (5-4), Forbes (5.5-3.5), Jacob Hershfield (5-4), Joy Meshulam (5-4) and Macrina (6.5-2.5) won their matches, while Greyson Levethal tied his match. Ryan was the team’s medalist after shooting a 34. Ryan (8-1), Forbes and Hershfield (6.5-2.5), Leventhal and Meshulam (5-4) and Max King and Macrina (6-3) were victorious over their Winthrop counterparts. Bickell ended up in a tie to secure another point for his teammates.
The annual Tedesco Cup was on the line last Friday against rival Swampscott, and coach Bob Green’s team took care of business with plenty to spare, 47.5-24.5 to retain the Cup.
It was also Senior Day that featured eight Magicians coming out on top that included Ryan (5.5-24.5), Forbes (5-4), Hershfield (6.5-2.5), Bickell (5.5-3.5), Leventhal (5.5-3.5), Meshulam (6.5-2.5), King (6-3) and Macrina (7-2). Hershfield was the medalist after shooting a 33.
Local director stages spooky performance at Lee Mansion
BY LEIGH BLANDER
Do you love a scary story?
Then you won’t want to miss “Haunted, An Evening of Ghost Stories in the Dark” at the Jeremiah Lee Mansion later this month.
Local director Peyton Pugmire, known for his biannual presentation of “A Christmas Carol” (which is off this year) at the Lee Mansion, decided to put on a Halloween-themed show this season.
“I love ghosts; I love spooky things,” Pugmire told the
Current. “The mansion is a perfect setting to explore the supernatural.”
Pugmire explained the performance as “a collection of really entertaining, intriguing, spooky ghost stories, poems and local legends.”
The audience will be seated in the mansion’s foyer while actors read the stories and poems. People may spot a ghost of two as well.
The show is appropriate for children 10 years and older, Pugmire said.
“It’s definitely not a haunted
house,” he said. “It’s a beautiful mix of the spooky and poetitc, eerie and mysterious. It is stylistically poetic.”
Some of the authors of the evening include Edgar Allan Poe, Henry W. Longfellow and W.W. Jacobs. The story of Marblehead’s wailing woman will also be featured.
The performance dates are: Friday, Oct. 25; Saturday, Oct. 26; Wednesday, Oct. 30; Friday, Nov. 1 and Saturday, Nov. 2. All performances begin at 8 p.m. Tickets are $35 general admission, $25 for Marblehead
BY WILL DOWD
When Griffen Collins took the stage at Boston’s Symphony Hall in early October, it marked a pinnacle in his young musical career.
The 19-year-old Tufts University sophomore had earned a spot in the prestigious Tanglewood Festival Chorus, performing alongside the Boston Symphony Orchestra.
Collins, a Marblehead native pursuing a double major in cognitive brain science and music, navigated a rigorous audition process to join the chorus.
“There’s a preliminary audition where you send in a video,” Collins said. “Then, if they like your audition video, they schedule people for in-person time slots.”
long and very complicated, because it changes keys so often, and it’s just so intensely like it’s such a dense piece. There’s so much going on.”
Mahler’s 8th is 77 minutes long. The performance featured approximately 300 musicians, including a large orchestra, double choir, children’s choir, organ, eight vocal soloists and offstage brass.
Collins performed alongside his former Marblehead High School music teacher, Andrew Scoglio, also a member of the Tanglewood Festival Chorus.
continuing to make high quality music with the Tufts Beelzebubs, and now with the TFC.”
For Collins, the transition from student to colleague was profound.
“We were actually the same voice part, which is crazy. We were both baritones,” he said. “It was a very humbling experience singing with him.”
The scale of the performance was initially daunting for Collins.
“The idea that I would be on stage with so many wonderful performers was certainly very daunting,” he said.
The Tanglewood Festival Chorus, comprising about 200 volunteer singers, performs year-round with the Boston Symphony Orchestra and Boston Pops.
performed at Memorial Day ceremonies and little league baseball games. At Tufts, he sings with the Beelzebubs a cappella group.
Collins was a three-year member of the Marblehead High School Jewel Tones a cappella group and
Town of Marblehead INVITATION TO BID LEGAL NOTICE
The Town of Marblehead, in accordance with M. G. L. Chapter 30, § 39M procedure and acting through its Select Board will receive bids for the following project: 2024-041 Marblehead Rail Trail Construction: Pleasant Street to Smith Street. The project generally includes, but is not limited to, regrading approximately 650 LF of Marblehead Rail Trail from Pleasant to Smith Street, including grading, drainage swale, and associated improvements in accordance with Contract Documents and/or as directed. All Bids received will be opened on Thursday, November 7, 2024, at 2:00 PM. This project is being Electronically Bid (E-Bid). All bids shall be submitted online at www.projectdog.com. Hard copy bids will not be accepted by the Awarding Authority Tutorials and Instructions are available online at www Projectdog.com. For assistance, contact Projectdog, Inc. at 978-499-9014.
Bidding requirements and Contract Documents are available on Projectdog at www.projectdog.com, Project code # 864934 Bid documents are made available to all bidders in electronic form at no cost. Neither Owner nor Engineer shall be responsible for full or partial sets of Bid documents, including Addenda, if any obtained from sources other than Projectdog, Inc. Documents will be available on or after Thursday October 17, 2024 during normal business hours. Bids for the Project will be accepted electronically (E-Bid), by Projectdog at www.projectdog.com until Thursday November 7, 2024, at 2:00 PM. All questions are due by November 1, 2024, at 12:00 PM. There will be a non-mandatory on-site briefing session scheduled for October 22, 2024 at 1:30 PM.
Bidders may obtain one (1) full paper bid set for a refundable deposit of $150 in the form of a certified check or money order payable to Projectdog, Inc. Bid sets may be picked up at Projectdog, 18 Graf Rd – Unit 8, Newburyport, MA, or mailed for a non-refundable shipping & handling fee of $45. The full amount of the deposit will be refunded to all responsive Bidders who return the documents to Projectdog in good condition within ten (10) days post-bid. Otherwise, the deposit shall become the property of Projectdog, Inc. Additional hard copies of the Bid documents may be purchased online. Bids shall be submitted in accordance with the Instructions to Bidders and shall be accompanied by a Bid Security in form of a bid bond, cash, certified check, treasurer ’s or cashier ’s check, or security bond in the amount of not less than five (5%) percent of bidder ’s maximum price, which shall be forfeited and become the property of the Town of Marblehead on failure of the successful bidder to execute a contract within fifteen (15) days after notice of acceptance. The successful bidder will be required to furnish payment bond or other form acceptable to the Town in an amount equal to 50% of the contract price.
Attention is called to the fact that all bids are subject to the provisions of M.G.L. Chapter 149, Section 44 A-J. Wages are subject to minimum wage rates determined by the Massachusetts Department of Labor and Industries pursuant to M.G.L. Chapter 149, Sec. 26 to 27H. Complete instructions for filing Bids are included in the Instructions to Bidders. The Select Board is the awarding authority for this contract. The Town will award the contract to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder The Town reserves the right, in its absolute and sole discretion, to waive any informality in or reject any or all Bids, or any part of such bid, if it is in the best interest of the Town. Town of Marblehead
Collins’ debut piece as a Tanglewood Festival Chorus member was Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 8, known as the “Symphony of a
Thousand.” The chorus performed it three times from Oct. 4-6.
“It’s an extremely difficult piece,” said Collins, a baritone.
“Everyone in the Tanglewood choir said it was one of the most intense projects that they’ve been a part of.”
He continued, “It’s very
“I’ve been singing with the Tanglewood Festival Chorus for 10 years,” Scoglio said. “It was so special to sing with Griffen on his debut performances.”
Scoglio, who taught Collins for four years, continued, “And it‘s so lovely to see him
However, Collins found comfort in the collective effort.
“There are so many people in the choir standing around me that I feel almost masked and just comforted by the sheer mass of people that are singing with me that I’m not so afraid to make a mistake.”
Local literary agent excited to launch new political thriller
BY LEIGH BLANDER
Marblehead literary agent Maura Phelan knows a good story when she reads one. And she knew right away that author Maria Ventrano’s debut novel, “Queen Bess,” was going to be a hit. The book is being released this week and is available at Saltwater Books on Washington Street.
“I thought it was so smart, and it depicted formidable women doing good things to change the world,” Phelan said. “It was also very hopeful.”
Phelan owns Green Light Literary, a boutique agency here in town. Her friend and fellow Marbleheader Ellen Jarrett owns Porter Square Books in Cambridge and tipped Phelan off to one of her customers who was writing a political fantasy and time-travel thriller.
“Queen Bess” tells the story of tech billionaire Dakota Wynfred who is determined to block the re-election of “the vile U.S. president Robert Vlakas, who wants to nationalize her cybersecurity company and simultaneously set fire to the Constitution,” according to a Green Light press release.
Wynfred’s champion of choice is… Elizabeth Tudor, the queen who secured England’s shores, restored the treasury and ushered in the Renaissance in the 1500s. Wynfred travels back in time to convince Elizabeth to leave the year 1588, come to 2027 and run for U.S. president.
“First, she has to expose Queen Elizabeth I to 400 years of history and get her adjusted to the 21st
century,” said Vetrano, who lives in Woburn. “Elizabeth starts watching things like ‘The Crown’ and ‘The Bachelorette.’”
Vetrano, who owns a tech public relations and consulting business, was inspired to write “Queen Bess” novel after Hillary Clinton lost to Donald Trump in 2016.
“A couple of years later, I was still feeling gutted,” she said. Vetrano asked herself, “What kind of woman could win the presidency in America?”
“That was before Kamala Harris was running,” she laughed.
“Queen
Bess” is the first in a trilogy, Vetrano said. She hopes to start writing the second book soon. As for her literary agent, Vetrano couldn’t be happier with Phelan.
“She’s so creative,” she said. “Maura is the hardest working agent in the business.”
COURTESY PHOTO
Maura Phelan of Marblehead owns the boutique literary agency Green Light Literary + Media.
COURTESY PHOTOS Marblehead resident Griffen Collins and his former MHS music teacher, Andrew Scoglio, sang in the Tanglewood Festival Chorus at Symphony Hall Oct. 4-6.
Driftwood Garden Club gives library makeover
BY MELISSA STACEY
The following is an interview with Kathy Bradford, Driftwood Garden Club member and landscape architect, conducted by Discover Marblehead. The DGC maintains the Abbot Public Library gardens and provides educational opportunities in gardening and support of our environment. To learn more about the club and their activities, go to driftwoodgardenclub.org.
Tell us about the Driftwood Garden Club and its connection with Abbot Public Library. In 1990, the library grounds became our main civic project. There are four areas around the library that we maintain: the front garden on Pleasant Street, the side courtyard garden off Maverick Street, Max’s Garden in the rear and the parking area. For over 30 years, the club has continued to renovate, plant and maintain all the outdoor landscaped areas of the library property using funds we raise at our annual plant sale in May. The library recognized our work by recently installing a plaque on the Maverick Street brick wall which reads: “With gratitude to the Driftwood Garden Club, est. 1952, whose members have designed, planted and cared for the library’s gardens for many decades.”
Y HAPPeNINGS
What is your role in the Driftwood Garden Club?
I’ve enjoyed being a member for over 10 years. I’m a past president for two terms and I was also program chair for two terms. For the past five years, I’ve represented the club on the Abbot Library Building Renovation Committee utilizing my professional skills as a landscape architect to assist in implementing the club’s goals and visions for the library during the building renovation.
Why did the DGC apply for a grant from the Garden Club Federation of Massachusetts?
The recent building renovation construction impacted all four areas that we maintain. The most visible one is the front, the gateway to the library. Since there was no proposed landscape plan for the front of the library, the DGC recognized the need for a new landscape design. We took an active role and hired a landscape architect (a club member). We assembled a small team of members to work with
the landscape architect on the planting design.The design was presented to the Abbot Library Building Renovation Committee which approved the plan with enthusiasm. The DGC contributed a sum of money to the library towards the total cost of the new plants. To assist with the planting expenses, the DGC applied for a Civic Development grant from the Garden Club Federation of Massachusetts. The project complied with the purpose of the Civic Development Grant by improving the community of Marblehead with a new permanent planting project for the front of the library. The building and its landscape are strong visual elements as one enters the town on Pleasant Street. A long-term maintenance plan was included in our application.
We were notified at the end of August that GCFM awarded the club a $1,000 civic grant. This is a huge achievement for the DGC as there are over 170 GCFM member clubs. DGC President, Joyce Raymond and Treasurer Laurie Boggis received the check on Sept. 12 at an awards ceremony.
What projects did the DGC work on while the library was closed? To continue our goal to enhance and provide garden maintenance service to the Marblehead community,
we reached out to Marblehead Housing Authority’s Old Farrell Court in 2022. We asked if there was interest in our club providing landscaping and garden maintenance help for the residents. They were thrilled with our offer. For the past two years, we focused our efforts on the courtyard in Old Farrell Court. We installed a new pollinator garden, removed many invasive weeds and shrubs, pruned overgrown shrubs and planted seasonal annuals in
the plant beds. Many of our members find this project very rewarding, as the Farrell Court residents tell us in person how much they appreciate all our work. We will continue to provide our gardening services to Old Farrell Court in addition to resuming our maintenance at Abbot Public Library. The nonprofit spotlight is a weekly feature published in partnership with Discover Marblehead. To learn more, visit discovermhd.com
New sports director brings ‘extensive background’
SUBMITTED BY THE LYNCH/VAN OTTERLOO YMCA
To register for any of the programs below, visit tinyurl. com/4v3xxrvb.
The Y is pleased to welcome new Sports Director Connor Febesh. Connor brings an extensive background in sports combined with a degree from Boston College. He has years of experience coaching a variety of sports including basketball, volleyball and ice hockey.
Febesh is originally from Long Island, New York. He moved to Massachusetts to attend Boston College as an undergraduate and is continuing his education there and earning a master’s in sports administration. This fall and winter, Febesh will oversee
Jr. Celtics basketball, soccer leagues and clinics, sports mania, pickleball and more.
Jr. Celtics Academy program
The Jr. Celtics Academy, for players 3-15 years old, is a partnership with the Boston Celtics. The program’s goal is to increase basketball skills while having a strong emphasis on youth development to increase social, emotional and team building skills.
Soccer leagues and clinics
The Y offers preschool and youth soccer leagues, as well as skills clinics. The program is designed to strengthen skills and foster a love of the game while teaching and improving children’s skills in a fun, competitive environment.
Mini Sports Mania
The Mini Sports Mania program is engaging, encouraging and empowering for young beginner athletes. The program covers the basic fundamentals of various sports to develop athleticism, teamwork and friendships. Pickleball programing
The Y’s pickleball leagues and clinics offer people over 18 years a chance to meet others, enhance skills and stay active.
The league features multiple games per week and players are ranked based on their record.
There are playoffs, too. To learn more about sports programming at the Y visit northshoreymca.org/sports or contact Connor Febesh febeshc@northshoreymca.org
gathering.
“We are here tonight to remember and grieve together as a community, to acknowledge the trauma we all hold and the generational trauma,” Schneer said. “We are here to cry together and also find strength by being together, strengthening one another.”
The commemoration included a display of handmade ceramic anemones, part of a project called “Darom Adom” or “Red South.” These red wildflowers, which typically bloom in Israel’s western Negev region each spring, have become a symbol of renewal and remembrance.
Schwartz explained the significance. “These gatherings provided a space to mourn the loss of so many lives that were like flowers plucked violently from the ground,” he said. “The
project has served this way to find hope, by creating these symbols of renewal, a reminder that [anemones] would bloom once again after the rain.” Community members reflected
on the impact of coming together for such an event. Rita Swartz, a Swampscott resident, shared her thoughts.
“Our hearts are connected to our brains, and we see the evil, and we come together to comfort each other and support each other as a community,” she said.
Swartz added, “Judaism is love and freedom and peace, and what you’re seeing is the beauty of Judaism, the belief that we’re all brothers and sisters, that all life is precious and it takes priority over everything.”
As the community moves forward, speakers emphasized the importance of working towards healing. The evening concluded with a
and a renewed commitment to supporting one another through difficult times.
The ceramic anemones created before the event will be displayed in the sukkah at Temple Sinai and the JCC, serving as an ongoing reminder of those lost and the community’s resilience in the face of tragedy.
While the Marblehead community gathered in remembrance, commemorations in Israel included solemn vigils for the victims of last year’s attacks. Simultaneously, proPalestinian protests erupted globally, highlighting the complex and deeply divided responses to the ongoing conflict.
COURTESY PHOTO
Connor Febesh leads sports programs as new director at Lynch/van Otterloo YMCA.
COURTESY PHOTO
Kathy Bradford, a landscape architect, is a Driftwood Garden Club member.
CURRENT PHOTOS / WILL DOWD
Rabbi Michael Schwartz of Temple Sinai welcomes attendees to the commemoration event in Marblehead on Monday, Oct. 7.
Shining a light on the news you care about!
Headlight
Written by the students of Marblehead High School for our school and community 2024 - 2025 Issue
www.mhsheadlight.com
MHS acappella album -
“Glitz & Glimmer”
Jane Rickards, Sophomore, and Scarlett Kindle, Senior
In spring 2024, Marblehead High School's two auditioned acappella groups, The Jewel Tones and Luminescence, had the opportunity to record and release a joint EP titled “Glitz & Glimmer,” which showcases both groups' talent and hard work through musical performance.
The Jewel Tones had wanted to cover "Everybody Talks," a pop song by the Neon Trees, for many years, but 2023 was the year it finally happened. Luminescence, the all-treble voiced group, chose to record "Light On," by Maggie Rogers.
Rehearsals began in early September, led by MHS acappella directors Mr. Scoglio and Mrs. Inglis. By the end of October, the groups knew the songs by heart. They were instant crowd-pleasers, bringing excitement and attitude to the stage. Because of each song’s energy and success, it was an easy decision to record and release "Everybody Talks" and "Light On" on the Marblehead Acapella EP, “Glitz & Glimmer.”
Recording began in May, led by MHS and Jewel Tones Alum, Dan Howells (MHS 20’). Howells recorded each voice separately, and while each part sounded great on its own, it was the blending and unity of voices that created something truly magical. Ava Genovesi (MHS 24), a Luminescence member and graphic artist, designed the
the cover art using performance photos from both groups.
“It was breathtaking, and so much fun to record with my brother,” says Charlotte Howells (MHS 24), Dan's younger sister and Luminescence member. Jewel Tones member, Dante Genovesi, agreed, stating that, “The recording process was smooth and productive, and I'm very happy with the results.”
Once the pieces were ready, the two groups gathered around to listen to the results of their hard work for the first time.
For the seniors, this was their last time being a part of a recorded Marblehead Acappella song, and for the new members, it was their first. Jewel Tones freshman, Lucy Key, commented, “There’s something about hearing yourself in a professional recording that fills you with immense joy.”
Both groups added unique twists on the original songs while staying consistent to the popular melodies we know and love.
“It was fascinating to be able to hear what we as a group could do together, from an outside perspective,” says Niko King, a current Luminescence member.
“Glitz & Glimmer” is a point of pride for Marblehead Acappella, and they hope listeners will enjoy listening to it as much as they enjoyed creating it. Listen to “Glitz & Glimmer” today on Apple Music, Spotify and Youtube!
Do Not Expect Too Much from the End of the World: a deeply felt (and deeply funny) paean to the modern worker
Nathaniel Carper-Young, Junior
It would be easy to dismiss this film as something of a scatterbrained epic—such a thing has its merits, of course; just look at Gravity’s Rainbow but I feel it’s far more purposeful and controlled than what a cursory glance might let on. In Do Not Expect Too Much from the End of the World (2024), there is much head-spinning talk of literature and its great cast of characters; of the frivolity of bureaucracy; of the Sisyphean frustrations of the modern proletarian; etcetera. The central thesis here, though, relates primarily to the post-ironic attitudes which have so thoroughly saturated our nascent culture (that of the internet; what else?).
Romanian auteur Radu Jude sees irony—as a manner of comedic throwing-away and as a mode of social quasi-autocri-
-tique—as deeply pathetic, pathologizing its ubiquity with an acid tongue. His film sees its protagonist, Angela, take after the worst of the nouveau ‘satirists’ (Bo Burnham comes to mind, if rather tangentially) in making TikToks as digital alter-ego “Bobiță.” Angela haphazardly throws on a face filter bearing loose resemblance to the visage of Andrew Tate, says whatever cartoonish (often evil) afterthoughts that come to mind—these also remind the viewer of Tate and his language—and hits “post.” Whenever confronted about these posts, she justifies them by explaining the insincere sentiment behind the videos: “I criticize by way of exaggerated imitation.”
The real problematica here, disregarding how miserably ineffectual Angela’s so-called satire is, lies in how her ostensibly benign (gesturally left-wing)
Headlight Staff 2024 - 2025
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Benji Boyd
ASSISTANT
personal beliefs translate to her real life. When not making TikToks, she works as a production assistant on a workplace safety video for a very successful Unnamed Company. The subject of this video is a manual laborer—Ovidiu—recently rendered paraplegic by a flying metal bar while working overtime for said company. This incident is very obviously the fault of the higherups at his place of work, but they deny any and all responsibility for the incident. Angela, working as a mouthpiece for those higher-ups, makes the production of the safety video a needlessly hellish affair. It ends up taking an entire day, most of the day being dedicated to painstakingly scrutinizing Ovidiu’s lan-
October 16, 2024
guage when discussing the circumstances of his injury. He is forced to revise and re-read his lines for hours upon hours—only to preserve the image of the company. At some point, a glib reference to Chaplin’s City Lights is made, talking of the eight-hundred takes thrown away for a single scene in the film. To step back, for a moment: comparing a Charlie Chaplin film to an ethically fraught safety video does not entirely add up; neither does criticizing patriarchal practices (via idiot platitudes, at that) and then going on to silence the voices of workers. This is the tragedy of irony: all is made weightless in the absence of the sincere.
A new face in the MHS Math department
Evan Eisen, Junior, and William Pelliciotti, Junior
Classes have been back in session at MHS for the past few weeks, and there have been many new staff appointments. While all of them are great contributions to MHS, there is one remarkable teacher who truly engages with his students. He truly brings a positive attitude to MHS every day. Mr. Tenenholtz joined the Math department to teach Algebra I and Algebra II, and he brings 13 years of teaching experience to MHS.
Tenenholtz’s interest in teaching comes from his enjoyment of working with kids. He majored in business at Babson College before transferring to Northeastern University, where he majored in economics. Originally, Mr. Tenenholtz wanted to go into the field of finance or accounting, which he got a taste of through programs offered at Northeastern. After doing a few of these jobs Tenenholtz realized he didn’t enjoy sitting behind a desk all day and not having much social interaction.
This is when he realized that he wanted a job that allowed him to move around and help other people. In his senior year of college, Tenenholtz participated in a work study where he got to interact with kids. This sparked the beginning of his teaching career. He quickly secured his masters at Simmons University; he has since used
his expertise in mathematics and numbers to educate the next generation of mathematicians on thinking of multiple ways to solve a problem, applying critical thinking skills, and having a good work ethic.
Mr. Teneholtz has lived in Massachusetts his whole life, and he expresses his excitement in being able to work in a great school district like Marblehead. Mr. Tenenholtz shared that he enjoys playing basketball, tennis, soccer, and all things sports. He often discusses with his students about how their sports games went. He previously coached high school sports, and he hopes to someday be called Coach Tenenholtz here at MHS. Besides sports, Mr. Tenenholtz has a deep interest in history, which started in an AP U.S. history course. This began his interest in researching and reading about events like World War I and the Vietnam War. A book he really enjoys is The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien, which is a collection of short stories of an American platoon fighting in the Vietnam War.
Mr. Tenenholtz is most looking forward to getting to know the students and faculty, as well as becoming involved in the social environment here at MHS. On behalf of MHS and the Marblehead community, we welcome and wish him the best of luck this year.
REPORTERS: Nathaniel Carper-Young, Anna Baughman, Anya Kane, Evan Eisen, Niko King, William Pelliciotti, Peter Sullivan, Nasira Warab, Grace Wolverton
Daniel J. Gallagher, 94
Daniel passed away on Oct. 5, just one month shy of his 95th birthday. Born on Nov. 6, 1929, in Salem to the late Daniel J. Gallagher and Helen (LeFleur) Gallagher, Dan was raised and educated in Salem.
Growing up in the South Salem neighborhood during the Great Depression and World War II era, Dan’s youth was filled with sports, boyhood adventures and forming close bonds with the neighborhood kids, many of whom would become lifelong friends. These experiences were the fodder for many humorous stories Dan would tell over the years. Upon graduating from high school, Dan held various jobs that included work in local leather factories, construction work at the Salem power plant, and his favorite, lifeguarding at Salem Willows. It was during this time in his life that he and a buddy hatched a plan to hitchhike to Florida. During the trip, they narrowly averted disaster when the trucker who picked them up fell asleep. Dan was able to grab the wheel from the passenger seat, thus guiding
Shirley Lee
Kenney, 92
Shirley Lee Kenney, 92, of Freeport, Maine, (formerly of Salem and Marblehead) passed away peacefully on Friday, Oct. 4. Born at home on the family farm in Elkhart, Iowa, she was the youngest of seven children to Lawrence Hubert and Reatha Jeanne (Jones) Williams. Soon the family moved to Cambridge, Iowa, for Shirley’s elementary years and she graduated from Williams High School in Williams, Iowa, before moving to Des Moines to work for Freeport Insurance. Her adventurous
Susan M. Liberatori, 77
Susan M. Liberatori, 77, of Marblehead, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 11, surrounded by her loving family. Born on June 12, 1947, in Penfield, New York, to the late Harrie and Lois (Lapham) Miley, Susan was raised in Penfield, where she touched the hearts of all who knew her, leaving an indelible mark on her family and friends.
Susan attended the Newport School for Girls and earned her associate’s degree in retail marketing from Endicott
them to safety. In 1951, with the draft a looming reality, Dan enlisted in the Army and landed at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, where he completed basic training. Despite his admitted indifference to being a soldier, Dan volunteered to fight in Korea. After serving two years in the service, he made his way back home in the spring of 1953. After his return to Salem, he resumed his plan to become a teacher and did so by utilizing the GI Bill. He first attended Worcester State that fall and was able to transfer to Salem State the following year. Dan graduated from Salem State in 1957 with a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s degree in education.
Attending Salem State brought about another twist of fate in Dan’s life in the spring of 1956. Having enrolled in a required music class, he met an outgoing
spirit then led her to Chicago, where she became a stewardess for TWA for a few years before marrying and starting a family. Once her children were older, Shirley returned to work and school. She took classes at Salem
College. She began her career as a buyer for a local sporting goods store, which provided many travel opportunities. Later, she transitioned to a role as an office manager but took the most pride in her volunteer work with hospice patients. Susan was also a proud member of
freshman from Marblehead named Janis Goodwin. They soon started dating and were married in 1958 and ultimately settled in Marblehead where they built their home and raised their family.
Dan began his teaching career in New Haven, Connecticut, in 1957. After a year in Connecticut, he was eager to return to the North Shore and accepted a position in Melrose. He taught social studies and history at the junior high and the high school. Dan remained in Melrose for the remainder of his teaching career. In addition to teaching, Dan enjoyed bartending at Dill’s Restaurant after his brother Larry bought the business in the early 1970s.
During summers in the late 1960s and early 1970s, Dan was selected to attend summer institute programs offered to educators. He attended these programs at Union College, Ohio University, and for three consecutive summers at the University of Illinois in UrbanaChampaign where he earned an additional master’s degree in economics. During his time at the University of Illinois, he became an avid fan of the Fighting Illini sports teams. His great passion for the team became quite evident in 2009. That December he had an unfortunate accident where he
State College and worked at Polaroid before furthering her education at Wellesley College while working for Little, Brown and Company, where she worked in publishing. Ultimately, her passion for travel called her back to TWA. After completing her jet training (as opposed to her previous propeller plane training), she spent 18 years as a flight attendant, retiring at age 72 from American Airlines, which had acquired TWA. Shirley’s career allowed her to fulfill a lifelong dream of seeing the world. Over the years, she visited 49 countries, often traveling with family, friends and sometimes on solo adventures. In addition to her parents,
the Daughters of the American Revolution.
Susan shared a beautiful life with her devoted husband of 27 years, Ron Liberatori. They divided their time between their homes in Marblehead and Henderson, Nevada, where Ron’s company, RPL International, is headquartered. Together, they explored the world, creating cherished memories in places such as Paris, where Ron proposed to her — a city that held a special place in her heart. Susan also accompanied Ron on many international business trips, with Italy, Russia and Poland among her most beloved destinations.
Family was everything to Susan. She was deeply devoted to her children and
fell from the roof, fracturing nine ribs and a collarbone. Despite these injuries, which resulted in a two-week hospital and rehab stay, he insisted on setting the videoset recorder to record that night’s Illinois game before heading to the emergency room.
Dan retired from teaching in 1993 and remained very active. He continued to be faithful in his daily workouts at the Lynn YMCA as he had done regularly since the 1960s. Summers were dedicated to tennis matches each morning with his tennis group at the Seaside courts in Marblehead. As an avid football fan, Dan enjoyed following college games and attending all the Marblehead football games with his group of Marblehead sports enthusiasts, which included Rob Carr, Mo Carr and dear family friend, the late Dick Farrar. As a voracious reader, he continued his love of reading in retirement and could often be seen walking out of Abbot Library with a pile of books tucked under his arm. On any given day, he could be found involved in the latest home improvement project, tinkering with his car or cooking some of his favorite dishes.
Dan will be greatly missed by his family and friends. He will be remembered fondly as
Shirley was predeceased by her siblings: Dean Williams, Doris Wilson, Betty Spooner, Beverly Smith, Juanita Sayre and Donald Williams. She is survived by her daughter, Tammy Lee Bevins (Scott) of Yarmouth, Maine; her son, James William (Bill) Kenney (Kelly) aboard Minerva; her cherished grandchildren, Leah and Samuel; and her beloved sister-in-law, Rosie. She also leaves behind many treasured nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and great-greatnieces and nephews. Shirley was deeply committed to volunteerism and charitable giving throughout her life. She dedicated many years to Special Olympics events and was
grandchildren, cherishing every moment spent with them. She will be remembered for her feisty spirit and the courage with which she faced life’s challenges. Although she is no longer with us, her legacy of love, kindness and strength will live on in the hearts of those she loved.
Susan was the widow to the late Jay Faulkner with whom she shared 27 years of marriage. In addition to her loving husband Susan is survived by her daughter, Jennifer Norman and husband, the late Todd Norman; and her two stepdaughters, Marci Gallup (husband Chris Gallup) and Gina Rushton. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Morgan Anderton, Sofia Marcheterre, Jake, Cole, Finn
a wonderful husband, father and grandfather as well as a great teacher, mentor and friend. In addition to his wife Janis of 66 years, he leaves his children Steve Gallagher, his wife Lisa and their daughter Clara; Kimberly Gallagher; and Jon Gallagher and his girlfriend, Karen Kramer, all of Marblehead. He also leaves his sister-in-law Linda Goodwin Balser and brother-in-law Don Balser of Marblehead. Dan also leaves many beloved nieces and nephews and his dear friend and former student Nels Nelson of Peabody. He was predeceased by his parents, sister Lorraine Gallagher Marrs of Bennington, Vermont, and brother Lawrence Gallagher of Salem.
Visiting hours for Daniel will be held on Thursday, Oct. 10, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Eustis & Cornell of Marblehead, 142 Elm St. His graveside service will be held on Friday, Oct. 11, at 11 a.m. at Waterside Cemetery, 294 W Shore Drive, Marblehead. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the Marblehead Magicians Gridiron Club at P.O. Box 505, Marblehead, MA 01945, the Abbot Public Library or a charity of your choice. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at eustisandcornellfuneralhome. com for Daniel’s family.
purchasing food for the Freeport Community Center Food Bank until her passing.
A memorial celebration of Shirley’s life will be held on Thursday, Oct. 17, at 11 a.m. at Eustis & Cornell of Marblehead, 142 Elm St., to be followed by an off-site reception. In lieu of flowers, donations in Shirley’s memory may be made to: Special Olympics Massachusetts: specialolympicsma.org; Freeport Community Center (Senior Fund or Food Bank): fcsmaine. org/give Americares (Hurricane Helene relief) or americares.org. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at eustisandcornellfuneralhome. com for Shirley’s family.
and Riley Gallup, and Lucy and Kyle Rushton. She is survived by her sister-in-law Patricia Murphy, and her brother-in-law Terry Liberatori. Susan was predeceased by her sister Carol Sowinski and her brother Bill Miley.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, October 18, at 11 a.m. at Eustis & Cornell of Marblehead, 142 Elm Street. A graveside service will follow, with a celebration of life afterward at The Beacon Restaurant, 123 Pleasant St. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in her memory. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at eustisandcornellfuneralhome. com for Susan’s family.
Excerpts from the Marblehead police log Sept. 24 - Oct. 6. Consistent with state law, police have adopted a policy of not providing media outlets reports related to incidents involving domestic violence, juveniles and matters that remain under investigation.
Sept. 24
10:26 a.m. — Officer Douglas Mills responded to the police station on Gerry Street for a report of identity fraud. The reporting party allegedly discovered fraudulent activity on their credit report, including
unauthorized student loans taken out in their name. Mills documented the incident and advised the victim to continue monitoring their accounts. The case has been forwarded to the Criminal Investigation Division for further review.
Sept. 25
11:04 a.m. — Officer Adam Mastrangelo took a phone report regarding personal information found on the dark web. The caller, a resident of Seaview Avenue, was advised to notify their credit agencies. Mastrangelo documented the
incident for the caller’s records.
1:58 p.m. — Officer Dennis
DeFelice met with a resident at the police station regarding suspicious activity captured on a Baldwin Road home security camera. The footage allegedly showed a white van parked in a school lot and a man exiting the vehicle to urinate.
DeFelice obtained the vehicle’s plate number and forwarded the information to the School Resource Officer and Criminal Investigation Division for further inquiry.
Sept. 26
1:47 p.m. — Sgt. Timothy
Morley received an email from a resident of Pond Street reporting ongoing harassment from a neighbor. The email included video footage of an alleged incident. Morley reviewed the evidence and documented the complaint. He advised the resident on potential legal options and how to proceed if further incidents occur.
4:47 p.m. — Officer Tyler Bates met with a resident at the station regarding insurancerelated issues following a car accident. The resident reported difficulties obtaining new insurance due to nonpayment
violations from their previous insurer. Bates documented the complaint and forwarded the information to detectives for further investigation.
Sept. 27
9:01 a.m. — Officer Neil
Comeau took a report of a minor vehicle collision that occurred the previous day in the parking lot of Star of the Sea Catholic Church on Atlantic Avenue. Comeau advised the parties involved on how to proceed with insurance claims if necessary.
