Author: Joey Ciaramitaro

The creator of goodmorninggloucester.org Lover of all things Gloucester and Cape Ann. GMG where we bring you the very best our town has to offer because we love to share all the great news and believe that by promoting others in our community everyone wins.

Rant and Poll- Let me Set The Record Straight On Ugly Sweater Contests

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

Toby sent me this picture of someone who won the ugly sweater contest wherever he was at yesterday-

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Well it seems like the whole ugly sweater contest has officially jumped the shark.  You wanna know the precise moment when the formerly cool ugly sweater contest fad jumped the shark?  Well let me tell you- It’s when cottage industries all over the place started producing “Official Ugly Sweaters” for mass marketing in department stores.

The whole point of Ugly sweater contests was to find one from way back in your closet or your dad’s closet, or a thrift shop.  Anyone that goes out and buys an ugly sweater new off the rack that was actually designed as being an “Ugly Sweater” does not deserve a win.

In my opinion the all time ugliest sweaters were those Coogi sweaters worn by sportscasters in the 90s-

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Second point  of reference determining that The Whole Ugly Sweater Contest Has Lost It’s Cool Factor?

Every single sports franchise coming out with their ugly sweater jersey-

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OVER. DONE. STICK A FORK IN IT.

I’m not saying there should never be another Ugly Sweater Contest.  What I Am Saying Is That Anyone That Buys An Officially Designed And Marketed AS AN UGLY SWEATER from the Get-Go Sweater, They should Not Be allowed to win the contest.  Has to be vintage or get out of here with that new off the rack designed-as-an-ugly-sweater Ugly Sweater.

So Toby find that woman who took home whatever the prize was for winner of the Ugly sweater contest at your party and strip her of that title.  She doesn’t deserve it.  Only way she brings home the title in that contest is if no one else shows up in an ugly sweater at all.

Poll Time-

Community Photos 12/26/14

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro
Christmas Caroling Wheeler’s Point, Gloucester – photos from Anthony Marks
Kent Circle Christmas Tree, Glosta – photo from Anthony Marks

Kent Circle Christmas Tree

Thank you for your support.

Jude Abbe

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Curbside Collection Of Christmas Trees – January 12, 2014 – January 16, 2014

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

@Gloucester_MA: Curbside Collection Of Christmas Trees – January 12, 2014 – January 16, 2014: Special curbside collection duri… http://tinyurl.com/nkzu353

Sawyer Free Appeal

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

Hey Joey – I’m wearing a different hat this afternoon:  perhaps you can post our Gloucester Lyceum & Sawyer Free Library 2014 Annual Appeal notice & invitation on GMG, when you think the time is right, before the year is over, so folks can still get their tax deductions !  The “Wordle” or “Word Cloud” was generated by the audience at our Annual Meeting in October, and reflects views of what our library will be in the future (Notice the large “AC” for Air Conditioning, next to “Welcoming”, and “Accessible”….).
Best,
Scott

Citizens of Gloucester,

You likely are aware that 2014 has been a time of progress at your Library. There’s much that’s new, and more to come. I am writing now to ask you to help us maintain the momentum by supporting our annual appeal.

The most visible change is the John and Dorothy Rando Memorial Garden and Amphitheater and its surrounding gardens and plantings, ready for events as soon as weather permits. A new parking lot awaits you, too, with easy access from School Street.  Your visits to the library are more convenient now, with self-service checkout available at the circulation desk and a handy book drop-off box in the parking lot. Many thanks to the Friends of the Library for both these service improvements.

In addition to all the physical changes, there have also been changes in our staff as we thanked retiring Library Director Carol Gray for her 16 years of faithful service and welcomed Deborah Kelsey in September as our new Library Director.  Deborah brings unusual energy, vision, and expertise to her new role. She is a past President of the New England Library Association and has held leadership positions at libraries in communities as diverse as Framingham and Medfield.

Look for more changes to come, as well, driven by the strategic plan developed collaboratively by community members, the Library’s Board of Directors and the staff.  One project already under consideration: a complete revamp of our heating and ventilation systems, including adding air conditioning.

Whatever the amount, your gift to the Sawyer Free Library is much like a good book – it will have lasting impact and enrich the lives of many.  I hope you will join me in adding your contribution to the bookshelf, knowing that your gift is an offering to our community.  Thank you for your consideration.

With thanks,

R. Scott Memhard, President
Board of Directors, Sawyer Free Library

P.S. Attached to this sheet is a “Wordle”, or word cloud, created from a list of words that came out of the recent Annual Meeting; attendees were asked to describe their vision of Sawyer Free Library in the days and years to come. The size of the word in the pattern reflects the frequency with which it appears on the list. 

SFL Wordle

What’s Happening at GHS 12/23/14

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

Just a quick note to all to have a Happy and Healthy Holiday Season! Rest and relax and return with renewed energy to have a healthy New Year!

The exam schedule follows:

Mid – Year Exams
ABC           1/21/15
DE   Make-Up   1/22/15
FG    Make-Up   1/23/15

UPCOMING DATES OF INTEREST

Early Release ½ day for students on Tuesday December 23!

Holiday Vacation December 24 until January 2

School Re-Opens Monday January 5.

Martin Luther King Day January 19

“Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas.”
Calvin Coolidge

“The two most joyous times of the year are Christmas morning and the end of school.”
Alice Cooper

Electricity Conversation Update #14 Paulie Walnuts Gets His Energy Assessment #GloucesterMA

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

Paulie Walnuts talks about his energy audit from Next Step:

We had the Energy Audit on the 22nd. Chris was our person. He was great. We got alot of free LED Lights and power strips.
We are also getting attic insulation really cheap! It was worth a couple of hours of our time. I’m a skeptical person. This out-did my expectations. JUST DO IT!

If you want to take advantage of awesome programs available to you right now for zero out of pocket then sign up for your own energy efficiency assessment and get a ton of free lightbulbs, power strips, electronic thermostats that will turn down the heat at night or while you’re at work automatically, and efficient showerheads.

SIGN UP HERE-

← Back

Thank you for your response. ✨

 

Parts 1,2,3 Here
Electricity Update #4: Free Home Energy Assesment With Kevin From Next Step Living
Electricity Update #5: Video Walkthrough- Energy Efficiency Assesment and Free Stuff At Mom’s House
Electricity Update #6 Energy Saving Ideas
Electricity Savings Alternative Home Energy and Comfort Update #7- Cape Ann Chimney and Hearth
ELECTRICTY AND HOME ENERGY UPDATE #8 NO BRAINER- DONNA AND RICK GET THEIR ENERGY EFFICIENCY ASSESSMENT!
ELECTRICITY, HOME HEATING AND ENERGY UPDATE #9 CAPE ANN CHIMNEY AND HEARTH TESTIMONIAL FROM CAROL CATALDO
Electricity Update #10
Electricity and Home Heating and Comfort Update 11: Cape Ann Chimney and Hearth Part III
The No Brainer Electricity Update #12
Electricity Update #13 Next Step Experience At Lise Breen’s Laneseville Joint

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The Allison Carol Hauled Out at Rose’s Animated Timelapse Video

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

Community Stuff 12/13/14

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

SportsAd

AR super sale

Hello Friends of Backyard Growers, 

We’re getting ready to move to our new digs at the top of the year! We’re looking for folks to volunteer for short shifts on Jan 2nd, 3rd, or 4th to help us move our stuff from storage into our new place at 269 Main Street. If you’ve got a truck or van—awesome! If not, that’s cool, you can help us pack our van.

Lots of different shifts available to accommodate your schedule! Click the link to learn more and to sign up for a shift = http://vols.pt/fqXbaK

Thanks a bunch,

Lara

Pinoli From Karen Pischke

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

Karen Pischke submits-

Our first dinner at Pinoli’s was like an episode of Cheers- seeing friends neighbors and colleagues from Cape Ann! Plus met a number of newcomers to Gloucester. Delicious food, great service, lots of fun! Chef Paolo knows how to delight the eyes and the palate. 🙂

Solstice Stroll in Ravenswood from Terry weber

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

Hi Joey,

Last night about 60 people enjoyed a Solstice Stroll through Ravenswood Park. The walk began as the sun was setting and a light snow was falling. Led by Ramona Latham and volunteers of the Trustees of Reservations, the crowd learned about the history of Ravenswood, its animal life, and the meaning of the winter solstice. Flashlights were discouraged even as it grew darker, but Ramona provided makeshift “candles in cans” to light the way. After the walk, the crowd enjoyed hot cocoa and s’mores by a campfire. What a peaceful and beautiful way to mark the weekend of the “shortest day” of the year.  Enjoy the pics of Ravenswood at night, especially the pic of the fog creeping in, it’s a bit mysterious but beautiful.

Merry Christmas, 

Terry

 

China Port from Sandy and Eben Andrew

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

I hope that folks will support our updated Chinese Restaurant, China Port, under a new owner,  next to Friendly’s.  They have cleaned up an old establishment and are serving terrific food.  Eben and I had lunch the other day from their luncheon specials – I had General Gau’s Chicken with pork fried rice and a choice of one appetizer for 8.25, and Eben had Sweet and Sour Chicken wit pork fried rice and an egg roll.  The tea was hot and delicious and the waiter was most attentive.  Hope folks will support this little gem – easy parking and most affordable – our lunch for two was a total of $17.66.  Lovely portions that we even took some home.  Sandy and Eben Andrew

Gloucester Police Department Welcomes 5 Academy Graduates

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

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Pictured left to right; Lt. William Leanos; Training Officer, Officer David D’Angelo, Officer Jared Foote, Officer Keith Gaudenzi, Offficer Robert Morrissey, Officer Michal Cimoszko and Chief Leonard Campanello. (Courtesy of the Gloucester Police Department)

Mayor Carolyn Kirk and Police Chief Leonard Campanello are pleased to announce the graduation of five new police officers from the West Boylston Police Academy after 22 weeks of training 

Officers David D’Angelo, Jared Foote, Keith Gaudenzi, Robert Morrissey, and Michael Cimoszki will now enter the Field Training portion of their employment, followed by a probationary period of one year.

A total of eight new police officers are expected to join Gloucester over the next few months, as three additional officers are slated to attend the Police Academy hosted by the MBTA Transit Police in February 2015.

“I am extremely proud of these five officers. We have put them through a very rigorous process in prepping for the academy and then 22 weeks of official training. They are the best of the best in my opinion and will serve Gloucester well after their Field Officer Training,” Chief Campanello said. “I am also looking forward to adding three officers in February.  It’s invigorating to have such high-quality candidates to serve the City of Gloucester.”

The eight new officers replace those who have retired or have been promoted out of the patrol division.

GloucesterCast 109- With A Full House Of GMG Characters Taped 12/21/14

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

GloucesterCastSquare

GloucesterCast 109- With A Full House Of GMG Characters Taped 12/21/14

Topics Include: 9 GMG Peeps In The House- Peter Lovasco, Mrs Grumpypants Kim Smith, Alicia DeWolfe, Premenstrual Donna Arizzoni, Fresh Off The Stripper Pole Melissa Cox, Bill Cox, Frank Ciolino and Mr Effervescent Toby Pett and Host Joey Ciaramitaro. The GMG Holiday Party Recap, Taking a Cab, Thanks To Kathleen Erikson and Matt Beach for The Prosecco and Meat Plate, Kay Ellis Cucumber, Toby’s Chowder, Felicia’s Incredible Treats, Thanks To Fred Bodin, Re-carpeting Fred Bodin’s Back Room, The Winner of Sista Felicia’s Cookbook from Week 5 Subscriber contest Katherine Donlon, Week Six Gloucestercast Podcast New Subscriber Contest Prize Donated By Donna Ardizzoni is A Cape Pond Ice Coffee Mug Subscribe Here For a Chance To Win, The Rocky Neck Polar Plunge, Bring Dry Good Food For Donations To Be Collected At The Polar Plunge for Open Door, Peter Lovasco and Donna Ardizzoni and Melissa Cox all Pinky Swear During the Podcast To Do The Rocky Neck Polar Plunge, Christmas Eve Forecast From GMG Weatherman Pete, Downtown Gloucester Looked Like A Scene Out Of A Dickens Novel Saturday Morning, Gloucester’s DES Club, Fosters From Gloucester Now A Shell Station Which Means You Can Now Use Your Stop and Shop Card To Get HUGE Savings on Gas, Do Locals Go To Beauport The Sleeper-McCann House?, Cape Ann Museum Free To Gloucester Residents All Month Long in January, Hammond Castle, Pete Wonders About Beach Restoration At Good Harbor Beach, Harvesting Salt Hay and WPA Salt Water Marsh Depression Project, Wrapping Christmas Presents- That First Package vs That Last Package, Pinoli VIP Night and Review- Joey and Kim Disagree On The Pinoli Renovation, Melissa Cox Is Moving, Burnham’s Field Is A Total Destination Now, Relay For Life At Burnham’s Field This Year, Weatherman Pete- Oblivious To All Things GMG Except Weatherman Pete Stuff, Joey C, frank Ciolino and Donna Ardizzoni In the Relay For Life Dunk Tank, Fort Square Cafe, Georges Coffee Shop, Two Sisters Hash, Pinoli Open For Brunch Starting In January, Foreign Affairs Of Joey C’s Top 5 Restaurants North Of Boston, Blue Ox, Lone Gull, The Brewery, Rusty Shatford, Windward Grille, Azorean Steak Tips and Affordable Martinis, Breaking Nonnis Restauarant News- Top Secret and Joey C Wish For Willow Rest II, Kick You In The Cajones Cafe El Aguila Coffee from Toby, Glosta Joes Coffee Still Available At Paulines Gift Shop,  Alicia DeWolfe, Myron Lepine, and Laurie Lufkin In Cape Ann Magazine For Cooking Competitions, Thankful For Friendships, Donna Plugs Cape Pond Ice

podcasticon1GMG Podcast #109 Joey, Toby, Pete, Frank, Melissa, Bill. Alicia, Donna _Kim Smith 2014 Joey, Donna, Frank _Kim Smith 2014Donna Ardizzoni Donated A Cape Pond Ice Mug for  This Week’s New GloucesterCast Subscriber Contest.  One Of The First Ten New Subscribers Will Win the Mug to Be picked Up Here At The Dock. Subscribe Here For a Chance To Win

Isaac Asimov Quote of the Week from Greg Bover

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

“It pays to be obvious, especially if you have a reputation for subtlety.”
Isaac Asimov (1920?-1992)

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Born in Russia, Isaak Yudovich Ozimov immigrated to the United States with his parents at the age of three. A voracious reader of science fiction, he began writing as a pre-teen, selling his first piece in 1939 to Amazing Stories Magazine. He would go on to become one of the most prolific of sci-fi and hard science writers, publishing an astonishing 500 books in nine of the ten categories of the Dewey Decimal System, while simultaneously holding a tenured position as Professor of Biochemistry at Boston University. Recognized as one of the most brilliant men of his age, he was Vice President of Mensa, and opined that Carl Sagan and Marvin Minsky were the only two people he knew who were smarter than he. In his science fiction work he is perhaps best known for his Foundation Series and for I, Robot which propounds the Three Laws of Robotics, incorporated by an entire generation of writers from Roddenberry and Clarke to Ellison and Silverberg. He was a six-time winner of the Hugo Award and has a crater on Mars and an asteroid named in his honor.

Greg Bover

Merry-Time Gloucester Preschool Mornings! At Maritime Gloucester

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

Looking for something new to do with your preschooler? Join us for Merry-Time Gloucester Preschool Mornings! Come spend Friday mornings at Maritime Gloucester for a fun and engaging hour of storytelling, crafts and music with a maritime theme! Program runs from 10:30 to 12 noon from January 9 through April 17, 2015. Members are free; non-members pay a drop-in fee of $5.00. Attend 8 weeks and earn a Family Membership to Maritime Gloucester with our punch card. 

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