Major Multi-Family Zoning Changes Ahead? Town Listens to More Resident Input
On Thursday, November 2, 2023, the town’s Planning Board, chaired by Bob Schaeffner, held an in-person public meeting at Marblehead Veterans Middle School.
Planning Board Gathers Public Input on Implementation of Multi-Family Zoning Legislation
More than 175 individuals virtually attended a Zoom meeting held by Marblehead’s Planning Board on October 26, 2023.
State Rep Armini Provides Legislative Update to Board of Health
State Rep Armini provides BOH a legislative update.
McMahon’s Push for Changes at BOH Not Well Received by Hazlett
The Marblehead Board of Health held a lengthy meeting on October 10, 2023 covering topics including Town Meeting warrant articles, the the transfer station, and transparency surrounding payment of bills
Marblehead Considers Zoning Changes to Allow 900+ Multi-family Units
Under a new state law, Marblehead–and 176 other communities across the Commonwealth–is required to select one or more areas in town that will comprise a “district” for multifamily housing and change our town’s zoning bylaws accordingly.
Follow the Money: Town Still Forfeiting Interest on Tens of Millions of Dollars
While MMDT is offering 5.56 percent interest and 30-day US treasuries are paying 5.28 percent, the rates being earned on other Marblehead town funds range from 2.34 percent to 4.50 percent
Sec. of Commonwealth: Town Must Provide Financial Records Requested by Marblehead Beacon
Marblehead Beacon prevails in its appeal with the Secretary of the Commonwealth over town's withholding of records.
Marblehead Women Spearhead Pickleball Tournament to Benefit Girls Inc. of Lynn & Boston
The Win-4-All pickleball tournament – which will take place on Sunday, September 17, 2023 – is being organized by these women, and will benefit Girls Inc. of Boston and Lynn.
Operation Neptune: Wounded Warriors Come to Town
Shortly after sunrise today – August 12, 2023 – some 35 service members from the Wounded Warrior Project were welcomed to Marblehead for a day of fishing.
Tensions Boil Over at Board of Health Meeting
On Monday, August 7, 2023, the Board of Health (BOH) held a hybrid meeting with the board’s three members – Joanne Miller, Tom McMahon, and Chair Helaine Hazlett – in attendance.
(Updated) Former Town Building Commissioner Resigns
Earlier this week Marblehead Beacon learned that Albright had submitted a letter of resignation, with his last day scheduled for this Friday, July 28. We reached out to Albright but as of publication time had not heard back.
Rogue Dump Users, Beach Water Quality, Mental Health, Transfer Station Fixes & More
Board of Health meeting discusses facility stickers, mental health task force, beach and water quality, and more.
New Policy Denies Access to Information About Town Investments
On June 29, 2023, we received an email from the town’s Finance Director and CFO – Aleesha Nunley Benjamin – stating that in an effort to combat fraud, she had instituted a policy in which the names of the financial institutions would no longer be disclosed.
Ferry Starts Monday as “Ditch the Drive” Promoted by Rep. Armini & Sen. Crighton
Ferry and other commuting options begin Monday as Sumner Tunnel closing for summer.
Panic Erupts Over Finances Moments After Select Board Adjourns
In the very first meeting of the newly configured Select Board yesterday evening — and after the swearings-in by Town Clerk Robin Michaud — the Board elected Erin Noonan as Chair
Election Coverage Recap Ahead of Tuesday
A recap of Marblehead Beacon's election coverage, including links to all election-related stories
Select Board Perspectives: Have Marblehead’s Resources Been Well Managed?
Select Board candidates arguably face some of the most challenging financial questions — looking both forward and backward — in determining where mistakes might have been made, whether transparency has been lacking, and more.
Override Perspectives: “Vote Yes for Marblehead” Vs. “Six Percent is Too Much”
Two committees weigh in on the perceived pros and cons of passing the override that is Question 1 in June 20th's election.
BOH Perspectives: Multimillion $ Transfer Station Building Paid For But Not Delivered
Marblehead Beacon sent a series of questions to the three Board of Health candidates, the first of which focused on the current status and proposed plans for Marblehead’s transfer station
Civil Air Patrol Names Marblehead Student 'Cadet of the Year'
High schoolers who serve as cadet commanders for the local Civil Air Patrol Squadron – the official auxiliary of the United States Air Force – are not easy to come by. But 18-year-old Marblehead resident Andrew Ruocco occupies this rare category.
Almost Two Years In, Town Holds Hearing for Police Officer on Paid Suspension
Hearing over two days on fate of MPD Officer Chris Gallo's employment
Writer of Controversial Letter About Parking Entitlement Issues Apology
Controversy broke out on local social media pages earlier this week amid accusations by a town resident in a letter to the editor of Marblehead Beacon that three “VEPs (Very Entitled Persons)” allegedly had spots reserved for them at Town Meeting.
Hanna Partyka's Students: "Spellbound"
First-grade teacher at Glover is loved by students.
Deanna Jackson: "Free, Appropriate Public Education” Important
Brown School teacher inspired by dance and integrated learning.
Leslie Smith Rosen: An Epstein Hillel Gem
In nominating Rosen for this Marblehead Beacon series on special teachers, one parent describes her as bringing “tremendous energy and knowledge to Epstein Hillel.”
Renowned Elephant Conservation Speaker Coming to Hooper Mansion This Weekend
Earlier this week, Marblehead Beacon sat down with Gini Cowell of Elephant Aware Massai Mara, an elephant conservation non-profit.
Discrimination Claim “Unsubstantiated” Says Charter Board of Trustees
Board of Trustees finds discrimination claim by employee against Head of School "unsubstantiated"
Community Members & Neighbors to Sober House: “You Blindsided Us”
The management of Humphrey Sober House faced heated questioning at a standing-room-only community question-and-answer session.
Request to Move LGBTQ Pride Flag Prompts Investigation at Charter School
Allegation by teacher's aide of discrimination against MCCPS's Head of School regarding flag.
Building Commissioner Ordered to Resign: 17 Months Without Taking Exams
Last week Marblehead Beacon learned that the Town’s Building Commissioner, John Albright, has been operating in his role since 2021 without successfully scheduling or completing any of his mandated three examinations.
Tonight’s Academy Awards: Marblehead in the House
French pastry chef from Marblehead has his company's product featured in swag bag at Oscars
James Maroney: Finding Light in the Darkness
Spotlight looks at documentarian.
Town Meeting to Address Tax Increases, Rule Changes, As Attridge Takes the Reins
After 16 Years of Gary Speiss, Attridge Takes on Moderator Role
State of the Town: Multi-Million Dollar Budget Shortfall Projected
State of the Town reveals a projected multi-million dollar budget shortfall.
Relishing Pickleball: Commission Votes to Re-Open Courts
Pickleball lovers are not happy about court closures.
Marblehead Surgeon on Vietnam Mission
Marblehead orthopedic surgeon heads to Vietnam for mission trip.
Fire Chief Planning Cold-Weather Shelter Friday and Saturday
Temporary cold-weather shelter to open in Marblehead
5X Fast: Entertaining Marblehead and Beyond
Local band 5X Fast: An evolution
Investigation Underway as Body Found in Marblehead Identified
Body found in Marblehead identified
Body Discovered at Marblehead Beach
Intact skeleton found off Edgemere Road.
“Real Housewives” Comes to Marblehead: Dorinda Medley Guest at Local Boutique
The Real Housewives of New York cast member, Dorinda Medley, paid a visit earlier this evening to local Atlantic Avenue boutique, Chic Streets.
Playwright Lucas’s Debut Comedy “Party?” Shines
Marblehead Little Theater (MLT) is most certainly back in action.
Marblehead’s Amy Carnevale Challenges Embattled MassGOP Chairman Jim Lyons
With not a single statewide Republican win in last November’s election, some party insiders seem to have concluded that it is time for the MassGOP to hit the reset button
Chimney Fire on Orne Street “Could Have Been Much Bigger”
Earlier this evening a fire broke out in the chimney at an Orne Street residence–a home in Marblehead’s historic old town.
Marblehead Fire Chief Part Two: Electric Vehicles, New Services, & More
With nearly 40 years of service to this town, Marblehead Fire Chief Jason Gilliland is an institution.
Fire Chief Jason Gilliland: Nearly Four Decades Serving Marblehead & Definitely Not Done
Facts and figures about the town’s fire department roll off Marblehead Fire Chief
Charter School Chef’s Labor of Love: Creating Marblehead’s Newest Food Pantry
“Director of Food Services” at Marblehead Community Charter Public School (MCCPS) is Danette Russo’s official title, but for Russo, it’s all about being “Chef Danette” to her students and a kind and discreet friend to the countless on the North Shore she has helped over the years, particularly in the arena of food insecurity.
Congressman Moulton Talks Mental Health, Taiwan, Illegal Immigration & More
Earlier this month Congressman Seth Moulton, who represents Massachusetts’s 6th District and hails from Marblehead, sat down with Marblehead Beacon for a wide-ranging discussion.
Glimpses Into Promising Glioblastoma Trial: "Miles for Mary" Hosts Researchers at EYC
Promise lies ahead in glioblastoma therapeutics according to several decorated researchers
Former Navy SEAL Delivers Inspiring Address at Veterans Day Ceremony
Hundreds of locals came to Abbot Hall to honor and celebrate Veterans Day in an event organized by Marblehead's Veterans Agent Dave Rodgers
Marblehead’s Voice for Veterans: Dave Rodgers
Speaking with Dave Rodgers outside his modest basement office at Marblehead’s municipal Mary Alley Building, it is not difficult to envision the town’s Veterans’ Agent as an imposing young Navy man.
Defendants in Massive Fraud Scam Appear Via Zoom in Federal Court
At today’s preliminary hearing in federal court, defendants Brian Bushell and Tracy Stockton–each charged with felony charges related to the alleged theft of millions of dollars of federal Covid-relief money–appeared via video conference.
State Auditor: A Critical Role That Flies Under Voters’ Radar
Election Day’s outcome for the office of Auditor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts–a role that is often overlooked during campaign season–could prove to be a barometer of voters’ appetite for any change this year.
Miles for Mary Dinner and Seminar to Cap Off Successful Race
Bill Park is hoping to generate support for and interest in a November 7th dinner and presentation at which prominent MGH researchers Dr. Elizabeth Gerstner and Dr. Brian Choi will be discussing the latest findings in the realm of brain cancer.
Why Was marblehead.org Down for Hours Yesterday?
Looking to pay your tax bill? Find links for School Committee meetings? Email any town employee? For part of yesterday, accessing these or any other matters on the town website was impossible.
Barron’s Resignation Explanation Omits Key Detail
Marblehead Beacon recently learned that there may be more to the story of Emily Barron's resignation from School Committee.
30 Years After MHS Football Player Lost to Suicide, a Maddie’s Tribute and Focus on CTE
Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) was not part of common parlance in the 1920s, when the medical community began noticing that boxers who’d experienced repeated head trauma presented with a variety of psychological symptoms that would later become known as CTE.
Essex Tech Senior’s Cookies for a Cause
Essex Tech Senior Sophia Gonzales, long time volunteer, created Cookies for a Cause, a project to raise money for five local charities.
Multi-Million $ Wire Fraud Conspiracy Scheme Alleged by Feds Against Purported Orthodox Monk and His Organizations’ Attorney
Purported monk and his organizations' attorney arrested on federal conspiracy to commit fraud
FBI Raids on Endicott Avenue and Pleasant Street and Arrest in Marblehead
At approximately 6:00 AM Thursday, October 13, two Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) raids and an unconfirmed arrest took place–one at 22 Endicott Street at one at 124 Pleasant Street.
Breast Cancer: Men Can Be Diagnosed Too
Marblehead resident Andy Smith opens up about his own diagnosis and support of "Breast Friends"
Honoring Mary and Fighting Glioblastoma
Only 63 years old when she passed away, the mother of two grown sons–Bill and Doug–did not get the opportunity to meet her grandchildren who were born in the years since.
"A Thing or Two About the Game": An Interview With Richard Paik
One reviewer calls it a “sports drama.” Another says it’s a “rich character study
Geoff Diehl: Freedom is Foundational
Working to advance freedom, tax relief, and balance are key to Geoff Diehl
Armini Fends Off Rivals’ Questions About Past Support for GOP
Armini: "Voters Will See Through" Rivals Eleventh-Hour Questions
Chris Doughty: I’ll Provide Checks and Balances to the Legislature
Moderate Republican running for governor will offer checks and balances to Democratic legislature
State Rep Candidates Complete Last Two Forums of Primary Season
Candidates for 8th Essex complete last two forums of primary race
Marblehead’s Charter School Leadership Abandons Glover’s Regiment Tradition
Head of local charter school says no to decades-long tradition with Glover's Regiment at opening day
DA Candidate James O'Shea: "I've Been Training for This Job for 24 Years"
Longtime attorney James O'Shea is looking to make some changes at the DA's office
Female Rep Candidates Say Financial Influence and White Male Dominance Cloud Campaigns
Four female state rep candidates point finger at male-dominated political system
DA Candidate Paul Tucker: "I've Given My Life to Public Service"
DA Candidate Paul Tucker believes in restorative justice and preventative policing
With Clock Running, Candidates for Beacon Hill Job Throw Jabs
Candidates drawing distinctions by pointing to character, experience, and strategy differences
Pizza for Homeless Animals: Shelter Fundraiser at Flatbread Tomorrow
American Flatbread donating proceeds to Marblehead's animal shelter from dining Tuesday night
Candidate Forum Takes Unexpected Turn: The Gloves Come Off
With the primary just 18 days away, the six-way race among the Democrats for Stat
Suspicion of Intentionally Set Fires at Town Dump
Fire from August 1, 2022 being investigated as possible intentionally set
8th Essex State Rep Candidates Forum: Strikingly Similar Positions on Most Questions
Candidates show more similarities than differences at forum
Thompson: "People Are Hurting...and I Will Fight to Do What We Need"
Thompson says "people are hurting" in 8th Essex.
Titcomb: "Checks and Balances Are Critical" in Government
Polly Titcomb talks affordable housing, public transportation, transparency, and more.
Armini's Opponents Respond to Her Announcement About Lobbyist Contributions
Earlier today, Jenny Armini, candidate for State Representative of the 8th Essex District, announced that she was refunding 14 of her donors a total of $3,200 because they are registered lobbyists; she pledged not to take lobbying funds moving forward.
Terri Tauro Part II: “Often the Only Help for Working People is Unions”
Key issues for Tauro include the environment, Fair Share Amendment, and Unions
Sterny’s Way Scholarship Awarded to MHS Students
Sterny’s Way Scholarship Awarded to MHS Students
Terri Tauro: "I'm Going to Protect the Rights of Working Families"
Tauro balances a busy campaign schedule with her work for the MMEU and her full-time job with the Harbormaster.
Abbot Public Library Moving as $9.5 Million Renovations Get Underway
As Abbot Public Library prepares to undergo a comprehensive renovation–the first since 1989–its newest Director, Kimberly Grad, sat down for an interview with Marblehead Beacon.
Units From North Shore Reportedly Responding to Marblehead Transfer Station Fire
Up to date coverage of the fire at the Transfer Station. Response from Marblehead Fire and Police as well as several other North Shore towns.
Doug Thompson: “I Have the Passion and Experience”
Thompson says about his decision to pivot to running for a political office. “This is something I’ve been thinking about for a while,” he notes, recalling early days spent working on campaigns.
Polly Titcomb: “I Have a Lot of Energy” and “I’m No Shrinking Violet”
“I have a lot of energy,” says Polly Titcomb, 41, who was raised in a large Greek family and hopes to be the next State Representative for the 8th Essex District.
Marblehead League of Women Voters Hosts Candidate Forum
The Marblehead League of Women Voters held a two-hour forum last evening at the Marblehead High School Library
Smith, Thompson, and Armini Lead the Pack in Fundraising
With town elections behind us, Marblehead is ready to look ahead to the September 6th primary. Marblehead Beacon details how each candidate has raised funds for their campaign.
Yarmoff Prevails in Recount for Light Commissioner Seat
Just moments ago, Jean-Jacques Yarmoff was declared the winner in a ballot recount of the original results for the co
A Rocky Start to the Ballot Recount
As the recount for the Marblehead Light Commission’s election results got underway this morning in the Marblehead High School library, the two candidates who came within 19 votes of each other. The recount that ensued was full of controversy.
The Unforgettable Cashier: Tammy Sprague
“I don’t deal in regrets and I believe we should try to enjoy every day.” Tammy Sprague, one of Marblehead’s best-known characters, shares such pearls of wisdom in an interview with Marblehead Beacon.
Homan’s Petition for Recount Certified
Recount to be held on Monday July 11 at 9AM at Marblehead High School Library
Highlights From Independence Day in Marblehead
Blue skies, happy families, and costumed children ushered in Independence Day in Marblehead after two prior years of celebrations limited by the pandemic.
Marblehead 4th of July Back in Full Force: A Guide to the Weekend
With a wide range of options all weekend long, Marblehead knows how to do Independence Day right.
Teen Entrepreneur: The Kindling Kid
The Kindling Kid
Marblehead's Annual Horribles Parade: What, When, and Where
The Horribles Parade details
AG Finds Board of Health Violated Open Meeting Laws
Attorney General finds Board of Health Violated Open Meeting Laws
Contested Races a Done Deal With One Exception
All races a done deal but one headed for a recount.
One Yes and One No: What Do the Ballot Question Results Mean for Marblehead?
What's next for Marblehead with one 'yes' and one 'no'?
Board of Registrars Meeting to Examine Homan's Light Dept. Recount Petition
Recount being sought by incumbent who narrowly lost
Election Ballot Issues: What Happens Next?
Secretary of State's Office and Marblehead Town Clerk discuss running out of ballots
Unofficial Winners for Board of Health and Light Commissioner
Click here for our coverage on how last night unfolded at the polls.
Marblehead Runs Out of Ballots Before Voting Ends
Town runs out of ballots before polling places close
Custodian, Others Potentially Exposed to Asbestos in Mary Alley
One month later, town officials have yet to make report available and have little to say
Select Board Overturns Itself
Select Board overturns previous decision during the same meeting
Marblehead Resident Heading to Africa With Peace Corps
Marblehead resident heading to Togo to volunteer for Peace Corps
New Lift Brings Disabled Access to Public Boating in Marblehead
Marblehead boaters with mobility limitations have a reason to cheer.
Is the Town of Marblehead Keeping Its Data…and Yours…Safe?
Is Marblehead’s Technology Vulnerable to Cyber Attacks?
Marblehead’s Post Office Legend: Barbara DiVenuti
Who doesn't know Barbara, the post office legend?
Marblehead Bids Adieu to “Board of Selectmen” and “He”
"Board of Selectmen" Becomes "Select Board" and "He" Becomes "They" in Articles 40 - 43
A Marblehead Beacon Focus on Legalized Cannabis in Marblehead
Pot shops are coming to Marblehead: what to expect
Lena Robinson
Founder, Editor, Reporter
Member for
3 years 1 monthlena@marbleheadbeacon.com
Lena is an attorney and writer, having spent part of her career prosecuting insurance and unemployment fraud for the Office of Attorney General in Boston, and general criminal matters for the Office of the District Attorney in Essex County. She has written in the legal and political realm, including ghost writing, op-eds, and
corporate roast/humor presentations.
Lena lives with her family in Marblehead.
