International Dory Race Committee and Foster’s Grill Store Food Drive For Open Door

We are teaming up with Foster’s Grill Store this year for our Annual Food Drive to support The Open Door, and we would love your help to make it a success! 

📅 Date: Sunday, November 16, 2025
🕒 Time: 8am – 12pm
📍 Location: 107 Eastern Ave. Gloucester, MA 01930

📅 Date: Monday, November 17, 2025
🕒 Time: 3pm – 6pm
📍 Location: 107 Eastern Ave. Gloucester, MA 01930

Whether you’re able to assist for an hour, dedicate the entire day, or simply stop by to contribute, your support will have a meaningful impact.

If you are able to volunteer any of your time, please reach out to Ashley at ashleylynsmith89@gmail.com and let her know. Thank you for helping us support our community — together, we can make a real difference!
 Best regards,
IDRC Board 

Winter Adjustments — pat morss

It’s not winter yet, but changes are apparent.

The sky is a steel-gray more of the time.
And the ocean is looking more sinister.
Our winter guests are assembling in high numbers on Niles Pond.
Mallards are engaging in synchronized head-pumping.
Bobbing up and down, it is an early stage of courtship.
Painted Turtles are discussing how long until hibernation.
Watching this Harbor Seal in Brace Cove, I’m glad the swimming season is over.
The view is unobstructed for raptors, now that the leaves are off the trees.
Friendly Northern Mockingbirds will continue to follow our walks.
A new Osprey platform is ready for spring at the Mass. Audubon sanctury.
Mating is at a peak for the White-tailed Deer.
The bucks are bolder during the rut.
From home, the sun will set south (left) of the lighthouse until mid-February.

The Greater Cape Ann Chamber’s Annual Fundraising Silent Auction is now live — and open to everyone!

You don’t need a ticket to take part in the excitement. Simply visit bit.ly/AllHandsOnDeckAuction to browse and bid on more than 80 amazing items and experiences donated by local businesses and community members Find everything from getaways and dining experiences to artwork, sports tickets, and one-of-a-kind local treasures — all while supporting programs that help our small businesses and communities thrive. The silent auction closes on Thursday, November 13 at 7pm.

And if you’d like to join the fun in person, today’s your last chance to grab tickets for Thursday’s live auction celebration at Cruiseport Gloucester. Don’t miss this incredible night of dining, bidding, and community spirit! Last day to purchase tickets is Monday, November 10. 🎟️ Get Tickets Here → onecause.com/allhands2025

Start bidding now: bit.ly/AllHandsOnDeckAuction
Let’s keep Cape Ann strong — together.

This weekend was the annual Sal Grasso hockey tournament

It has been going on continuously for a very long time.  A few shots .  These were the Squirt 2 team
It is customary for the teams to exchange pins.  It is a friendship tournament

Whale Rock Art Studio

Went to Whale Rock Art Studio on Sunday, 27 Lexington Avenue, Magnolia, Gloucester, MA.  Amazing paintings by Loren Doucette and Matthew Billey.  People were admiring the great paintings by these two very talented artists.   Whale Rock Art Studio offers painting classes for kids and adults.  Very friendly studio with great light.   For more information on Whale Rock Art Studio, please go to the following link.  https://www.whalerockartstudio.com/

Identify yourself as a Veteran when you dine at any Serenitee Restaurant Group location on Tuesday, November 11th and your entree is on the house. Thank you for your service! 

 ~ sam ~ 

New Shop On Main St: Nellie’s

We stopped by the new shop at 260 Main St: Nellie’s, Nelson’s sister shop. They have done a great job with the layout and selections offered. I picked up a gift and a sweater for myself. Don’t sleep on the children’s section!

Cross Country November Homebuyer Hub

How to buy a house

Buying a house is one of life’s most exciting milestones — but how do you actually do it? From organizing your finances to exploring mortgage options and starting your home search, there are lots of steps to keep track of. We compiled this guide to walk you through the process, start to finish. Whether you’re ready to get moving or still have questions, we’re here to help. 

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What are the pros and cons of refinancing your home?

With options to access equity, secure a better interest rate or reduce your loan term, refinancing can be a helpful financial reset for some homeowners. Trying to decide if it’s right for you? Start by breaking down the pros and cons in our article.  

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Buy a house before selling yoursYou’ve found the perfect home. Dream location, right size, all the features on your list, but there’s one problem: The for sale sign outside your current home. No worries! We have financing options that let you make your move on your timeline. Learn how to buy before you sell right here. 
Read More
Brandon Pratt

Brandon Pratt
VP of Mortgage Lending / Loan Originator
M 617.688.6891D 617-688-6891
W www.theprattteam.com
E brandon.pratt@ccm.com

 by prattbrandon