THIS EDITION IN ONE SENTENCE: Marblehead faces a zoning plan reset after the state’s exemption denial, concern over e-bike safety among kids rises, a new light department leader preparing to take charge, a three-way partnership that brought new lights to Gatchell Playground while saving taxpayers half a million dollars and the return of Canadian folk legend Garnet Rogers to Me&Thee.
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A $77,740 upgrade at Gatchell Playground has replaced aging lights that dated back three decades — at a fraction of the half-million dollars such projects usually cost. Parks and Recreation worked with Marblehead Youth Baseball and the Municipal Light Department to remove old fixtures, replace poles and install 60 new LED lights.
Town secures state support after zoning exemption denied
The state formally rejected Marblehead’s exemption request under the MBTA Communities Act. The Select Board confirmed the town will use new funding to hire a second consultant and draft a fresh zoning plan.
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Changing of the guard at Marblehead Light
Jonathan Blair begins Sept. 29 as general manager, succeeding Joseph Kowalik. Commissioners expressed confidence in his management experience but acknowledged a learning curve ahead.
The Marblehead Traffic Safety Advisory Committee agreed Monday to prioritize education over enforcement in addressing growing safety concerns about electric bicycles, as new data revealed seven e-bike crashes in town between 2020 and 2024.
Canadian musician Garnet Rogers returns to Me&Thee Music
Canadian folk musician Garnet Rogers, known for his baritone voice and storytelling, will perform Sept. 19 at Me&Thee Music. A Marblehead favorite for decades, Rogers first played solo here after the 1983 death of his brother and bandmate Stan Rogers — a show remembered for its raw emotion and standing ovation
Many readers have told us how much they enjoyed "When Sylvia Plath Babysat Here," a look back at the poet’s time caring for children and finding inspiration in Marblehead.
The Marblehead Children’s Center is seeking full-time infant, toddler and preschool teachers, offering competitive pay, benefits, free child care and a supportive teaching environment (gail@marbleheadchildrenscenter.com, 781-631-1954).
Sailing on the Fame commemorates Hannah’s role in naval history: This weekend, residents can step aboard the schooner Fame, a replica of the Hannah, for tours and sails at Town Landing as part of Marblehead REV250’s tribute to the town’s naval history.
