Evening light on the Annisquam from Paul Horovitz. I love that the essence of the river and its landscape can be captured so uniquely throughout any given day…is always so beautiful.
Author: Nichole S.
Councilors for Causes Tomorrow at Cape Ann Brewing Co.
15% of all food and beer sales between 5:00-9:00 tomorrow evening at the Cape Ann Brewing Co. will benefit the Alzheimer’s Association. Join Gloucester’s Councilor-At-Large, and tomorrow’s Celebrity Bar Tender, John McCarthy for a fun night and a great cause.
Cape Ann Brewing Co. is at 11 Rogers Street in Gloucester, Ma
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Yesterday in Rockport
No doubt you heard yesterday that there was an incident at Rockport Middle School. As a mother of a seventh grade Rockport student I can tell you that it was a long and emotional day. It was a day of fear…then gratitude…then more fear….some disbelief, some confusion, some relief, some heartache, some disappointment…and lots of love and appreciation. It was a night spent reassuring, addressing, soothing, explaining, and…mostly, listening. As I type this (11:30 last night to post tomorrow…which for you is now today) my twelve year old is asleep in my bed next to me for the first time in, like, forever.
I will tell you quickly how the day unfolded in my little corner of the world and then, if you don’t mind, share with you just why I felt some of the things I did.
Driving through “Five Corners” in Rockport right around 7:30 a.m. on my way out of town for work, I saw three police cars rushing into Rockport. One was an unmarked car. It was that unmarked black car that made me nervous…that rattled me. It was that car that set off alarms and made me stop to text my son. “Are you ok?” Please, please, please. “Yes.” Relief. Exhale. But, then his text continued… “We’re on lock-down. Someone was stabbed. By another student. I think he ran.” What? “In the high school?” I asked. “No, Mom. 7th. In my grade.” I asked again, “Are you ok?” …..and got no response.
It would be quite a while before I heard from my son again. In the meantime, I had many thoughts. He was ok. But, someone else was not. Is that really what happened? Is that just what he thought was happening? Was there something else going on? Are the teachers and staff ok? Should I text him again? Should I call him? Is his phone on silent? Is he hiding? Do I really want his phone to make a noise when my message comes through? Does he need me? Is he still ok? If his text was accurate, oh my word….that poor family.
I called my husband and filled him in on the little I knew. I saw several police cars. I texted our son. This is what he said. Now he’s not answering. Don’t text him or call him. I don’t want his phone making any noise. Please let me know if you hear more.
I continued on to work.
30 minutes after our initial conversation, thank goodness, another text. “I’m safe, but I can’t text you any more.”
I make a phone call to my husband.
Because I’m at work….I quickly get wrapped up in work. I want to know more, but there are some immediate things to be taken care of in my office.
At 8:30, an hour after seeing those police cars and first communicating with my son, comes a text from my mother. “What is happening in Rockport? I just saw the news.” I filled her in on what little I knew. I hadn’t thought to call her. I didn’t know it had already made it to the news.
Here is the love and appreciation part….. for the rest of the day, as news spreads, my phone buzzes with friends reaching out to make sure our son is ok, to send their love, and to acknowledge how scary it must be. I am so fortunate to have so many amazing people in our lives. Their concern for our boy and his classmates brought tears to my eyes. The love and kindness they expressed for him…and the community of Rockport…and us…meant the world.
Here, in contrast, is the disappointment part. I decide to take a moment to see if more information has been shared. It was clear it had been on news channels, but I can’t find it online. I turn to Facebook and look at the Rockport Middle School page…where I’m sure there couldn’t possibly be an update, but was the first place I thought to check. I then check out the Rockport Police page….also fully assuming that no one would have been able to share an update. Obviously…and understandably…there is no news. What I do find, however, on other forums, is a circus of blame and finger pointing and judging. I find people who are convinced that they know exactly why something like this could happen. Convinced that it was because of this….or because of that. People who were so quick to assume…while an emergency was still unfolding…so quick to put out to the world what they would have done differently. A frenzy of information shared….some it turns out correct, some it turns out, not.
As I’m reading, a phone call comes in from the school….and then thereafter, an email with the exact same message. A serious physical assault, one student has been transported to the hospital, one student is in custody, police have determined it is safe to continue with school, as parents you obviously have the right to dismiss your child as you see fit.
More appreciation…. I also find, thank goodness…goodness. Many parents supporting each other. Other community members expressing concern, thoughts, and prayers for all involved. Many thanking the school and the first responders. Some people offering to pick up other’s children. Support, thoughts and prayers, importantly I think, to both families.
I work, the day continues to unfold, our son asks to be picked up, my husband gets him, he’s home safely. We talk briefly…. helicopters, police, I saw her down on the floor, I saw her mother arrive at the school, “yes” I know the boy.
Here’s the thing. We live in a very small community. Even beyond our town lines to Gloucester is truly not that big. It’s most often beautiful. Idyllic, many would say. A place where people care for each other, rally for each other, and gather to get through hard times. Often. Yes, my son has a very small number of children in his seventh grade class at Rockport Middle School so, of course, he knows the children involved. But, it doesn’t end there. He knows, and truly adores, the extended family of the child who did this as well. We all do. So, obviously, I immediately reach out. “Thinking of you. This can not be easy. I’m so sorry.” In fact, this person is, not at all surprisingly because she is so great, one of the first people who reached out to me upon hearing the news of something happening in Rockport. Not knowing at the time, how this would come to unfold…and the news she would soon get.
At home we finally have time to really talk. My son expressed lots of sadness, fear, and emotion. He was very concerned for his hospitalized classmate…and her closest of friends, confused by the actions of another classmate…yet, aware that there were probably issues and circumstances that he does not know or can not understand, sad for both families, worried about his friends from outside of his school who are now suddenly dealing with a different type of sadness and concern and shock, and of course (and heartbreakingly)…maybe for the first time ever…really scared for himself.
We are very thankful to the Rockport school system and for those in Gloucester who jumped in to assist. We are very thankful to all of the first responders. There are so many people to think of and keep in our thoughts or prayers right now. I hope that others can just wish for the best for all involved and not point fingers. Not interject how they could have prevented this situation…not make assumptions. Instead use that energy to send healing thoughts to the young girl, her hurting family, and her very scared friends. Continue to think of them through what will no doubt be an incredibly difficult time ahead…even after the physical healing begins to take place. Also try, as part of this close community, to try to understand the pain and sadness that is no doubt being felt by the other family involved. Consider, for a moment, what that might also feel like. Be kind.
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Stealing a Quiet Moment
I couldn’t help but take a quick photo of this couple stealing a quiet moment on the beautiful deck of the Beauport Hotel early last night. All bundled up (and unrecognizable) in front of both the fire and a gorgeous sunset.
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Nichole’s Picks 1/4 + 1/5
Pick #1: Dinosaur Adventure
Do you have a dinosaur lover in the family? I’m guessing that, if you do, this is a not-to-be-missed event!
Event Description
Dinosaur Adventure is an all new, one of a kind exhibit featuring realistic, life-sized dinosaurs that come alive with their life-like movement and roars. Learn about the most popular dinosaurs -Tyrannosaurus, Triceratops, Diplodocus, Velociraptor, and explore recent finds with exciting discoveries!
As part of the Dinosaur Adventure, children of all ages will enjoy a variety of activities: fossil crafting, Jurassic jeeps, themed obstacle courses, riding their favorite dinosaur, and more! The whole family will also be amused by our live entertainment, a walking dinosaur show, and a baby dinosaur meet & greet.
Friday, January 3rd
3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Saturday, January 4th
9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Sunday, January 5th
9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Location
Seaport World Trade Center
Seaport Ln,
Boston, MA 02210
Pick #2: New Year’s Resolution Scavenger Hunt
Stevens-Coolidge Place, Andover
Stop by The Stevens-Coolidge Place from Monday, December 30 to Sunday, January 12 to get a jump start on those 2020 resolutions!
Just inside the white gate at the front door of the the house, you’ll find a scavenger hunt list on the brick patio to get you started exploring all that 2020 has to offer. On the sheet, you’ll find a list of 15 common resolutions, turned into a call to action that will take you through the property. Borrow one and find what’s in store for you in the new year! This activity is suitable for all ages and is best completed in groups of 2 or more. Get outside and explore this winter!
This is a drop-in event. No registration necessary.
Pick #3: Go Ice Skating!
Gloucester’s own Talbot Rink at O’Malley Middle School has open skate available on the weekend’s. I believe it is offered from 2:00-4:00 on both Saturdays and Sundays. A full schedule is available at the link below. Check it out so that you can also take in a hockey game while you’re at it!
http://www.gloucesterschools.com/talbot-rink
If you are looking for a way to make a day of your skating adventures, check out this handy Boston Ice Rink guide from Boston Central:
https://www.bostoncentral.com/activities/skate.php
One of Boston’s newest rinks is The Rink at 401 Park in the Fenway neighborhood. If you ask me a day of outdoor skating and lunch, shopping, site seeing in the city is a perfect way to spend a mild winter day.
As always, for a comprehensive list of family activities, please visit our friends at North Shore Kid
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Yvonne’s Boston
I love the spontaneity of my friends. With a day’s notice a few of us decided to book a hotel room in the Seaport and spend Saturday night in Boston. We spent the night at the Westin Seaport, hopped around the city a bit, caught a comedy show at Democracy in Downtown Crossing, then cut through the alley to Yvonne’s…where we were able to score a late 10:30 reservation.
Two delicious Grande Dames (don julio, ancho reyes, cucumber, lime) for me and other yummy cocktails for my friends and then several shared plates including the ones listed below made for a phenomenal dinner. Yvonne’s eccentric decor is a step back in time and makes for a special night out.
The Supper Club speaks of an older time when comfort and attention to detail trumped trends. The space contrasts a timeworn backdrop and polished décor. Antique crystal chandeliers, overstuffed heather gray tufted sofas, tables enveloped with crisp white linen and hand-clipped Calacatta marble floors. Anchoring the dining room is Locke- Ober’s original Santo Domingo mahogany bar, intricately hand-carved on-site by French woodworkers in 1886. The Supper Club is the ideal setting for seated group dining, business entertaining and birthday celebrations.
DELICATA SQUASH FRITTERS: English Coastal Cheddar, Hot Honey Red Miso Aioli
SPICY FETA Cauliflower Hummus: Pickled Hot Peppers Shakshuka Tomato Red Onion, Feta
CHICKEN & QUINOA MEATBALLS: Chinese Garlic Sauce, Spicy Mayo, Spicy Peanuts
SEARED HALLOUMI CHEESE: Charred Eggplant, Orange Blossom Honey Crispy Chickpeas
FIAMBRE SALAD: Romaine, Papaya, Pickled Beets, Hearts Of Palm, Cotija Chipotle Vinaigrette, Avocado Yogurt, Queso Croutons
ROMAN STREET CAULIFLOWER: Spicy Agliata, Pecorino Romano Crushed Rosemary Almonds, Calabrian Chili
CRISPY TATER CUBES: Joppiesaus, Farm House Gouda Beet Pickled Egg
2 Winter Place,
Boston, MA 02108on Google Maps
Call Yvonne’s by phone at617-267-0047
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Rockport Harbor
As the sun sets so early these days, I rarely get home to Rockport before dark. I was happy to pull into town one evening this week in time to see this pretty sky over the Motif and Rockport Harbor.
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Christmas Came Early for the River Dredge
The Annisquam River dredge just got a new red scoop for Christmas! Thank you to Paul Horovitz, our eyes on the Annisquam, for capturing this beautiful late night photograph.
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What is it Like to be a part of Cape Ann Youth Hockey? This.
Such a tremendous video! Back in November, Cape Ann Youth Hockey hosted teams from Montreal, Canada for the annual Sal Grasso Friendship Tournament. As we’ve shared in the past, this tournament has a long, rich history of friendly, yet competitive hockey between our hometown teams at all levels and the Westmount teams. Thanks to some organizing by Patti Nocella and the phenomenal work of https://luxelifeproductions.com/ we are now thrilled to share this video highlighting the weekend.
It is easy to see just how special our hockey community is and that teammate bonds are as special off the ice as they are on. As a league who does not often have the opportunity to play on home ice…this tournament is also special because it gives the Cape Ann community the chance to rally, cheer, and support these skaters…and for an entire weekend at that. And, rally and support they did. The smiles, camaraderie, laughs, and high fives are priceless. The volunteers, organizers, coaches, parents, families, rink staff, fans…and skaters…all play important roles in this tournament and it is thanks to all that this group of hockey players are creating childhood memories to last a lifetime.
Please enjoy this video….and enjoy this peek into the life of our CAYH hockey community.
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Nichole’s Picks 12/14 + 12/15
Full days of fun planned in both Gloucester and Rockport this weekend!
Pick #1: Rockport Makers’ Festival
Both Saturday and Sunday 10:00-5:00 throughout downtown Rockport.
For the second year, the Rockport Makers’ Festival returns to Rockport this December 14 and 15, 2019. This holiday festival is produced by a partnership of the Town of Rockport, Rusty and Ingrid Creative Company, and the Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce.
The town-wide festival encourages holiday shoppers to buy artisan made gifts, and activates the village with festive events that celebrate the season, including free horse drawn carriage rides on Bearskin Neck, live music, and a “winter cocktail and beer tent”, featuring local Ryan & Wood Distillery and a selection of local brewers.
Throughout the downtown area and at Whistlestop Mall, over 50 of Rockport’s own creative businesses will be showcasing their maker-made gifts, as well as hosting interactive events in their shops, galleries, and restaurants. Events include a “Do-It-Yourself Candle Bar” at Rockport Candle Company and a free “Print-Your-Own Screen Print” with Rusty and Ingrid Creative Company.
Additionally, a juried indoor Holiday Market brings over 40 creative brands from the local area and all over New England to sell their handmade wares at three locations in the village: the Rockport Art Association & Museum, Brackett’s Oceanview Restaurant, and Spiran Hall. The market will be open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM each day and admission is free.
Other attractions include: an indoor Holiday Food Market hosted by Rockport Exchange on Saturday; Food Trucks; Saturday evening entertainment including a live concert at The Old Sloop Coffee House, a free holiday movie showing at Spiran Hall; and giveaway offers such as free tote bags (while supplies last) and a raffle prize.
A printed event map will be available to guide visitors to the many attractions, and a full schedule is available on the event website, www.rockportmakers.com.
Pick #2: Middle Street Walk
“Where the Past is Present in a Seasonal Celebration”
Saturday from 10:00-4:00
Pick #3: Lobster Trap Tree Lighting and Art Haven Open House
The end of a wonderful day on Cape Ann ends with an Open House at Gloucester’s Art Haven with cocoa, treats, craft activities, music, face painting and more. As you see the crowd gathering immediately across the street, head outside for the Lobster Pot Tree Lighting at 4:30 for a sing-a-long and 5:00 for the tree lighting.
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Lighthouse in the Storm
These stone lighthouse inspired pillars are fabulous. While I have no idea who they belong to, I absolutely love them….especially in the winter.
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Winter on the Annisquam
I’ve decided that when the holiday rush gets to me, I am going to pause and reflect on this perfectly serene photo taken by Paul Horovitz. This photo screams (or rather, whispers) calm.
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Find Your Holiday Joy at the Beauport
If, by chance, you aren’t feeling the holiday spirit yet, take a trip to the beautiful Beauport Hotel to see their glorious holiday decorations. It is impossible to not feel joy upon walking up the staircase and into the lobby. Sit by the fireplace for a bit, look out to the harbor, and enjoy one of their yummy holiday cocktails. I had something with fig infused vodka the other day and if was delicious! If it isn’t too chilly, snuggle up on the deck by the fireplace with a blanket and forget about your holiday to-dos for a bit. Don’t forget, before you leave, to stroll into the gift shop for some holiday shopping.
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Nichole’s Picks 12/7 + 12/8
Pick #1: Santa Arrives in Rockport
Saturday, December 7th beginning at 1:00 pm
It doesn’t get more “New England quaint” than this. Like a scene from a perfect holiday movie is Christmas in Rockport.
Santa will arrive by lobster boat at Rockport’s T-Wharf on Saturday, December 7, 2019 at 1:00 PM. After carefully navigating his way off the boat and up onto T-Wharf, Santa will climb up onto a Rockport Forest Fire truck and parade across the street to Rockport Baptist Church.
Santa will be available to have photos taken with the children at the church until the Tree Lighting Ceremony begins. At 4:00 pm, Santa will head over to Dock Square to greet the crowd and kick off the Tree Lighting festivities, before climbing back onto the fire truck to begin his long return journey to the North Pole.
Magic 106.7 and HOOD will be in Harvey Park playing Christmas music and handing out eggnog samples from 12:30 – 3:45 PM.
Pick #2: Rockport Holiday Shopping Night
Friday, December 6th
Visit Rockport USA for more information HERE
Enjoy a festive Friday shopping evening with many shops and galleries staying open for extended hours and offering exclusive promotions and giveaways. Stroll throughout Rockport’s historic downtown to the sounds of carols and songs of the season, and get into the holiday spirit. A hundred lighted Christmas trees will guide you to beautifully decorated shops and galleries along Main Street, Mt. Pleasant Street, Dock Square and Bearskin Neck.
Holiday Shopping Night Raffle:
To enter, simply fill out tickets from participating businesses and turn them in at The Fish Shack by 8:30 PM. The drawing will take place at The Fish Shack at 9 PM. You do not have to be present to win. Enter to win one of two $50 Cape Ann Gift Certificates
Get updates from participating businesses.
Pick #3: Winter Lights by the Trustees
Tickets are necessary for this lovely event. The closest one to us is at the Stevens-Coolidge Place in North Andover.
Trustees’ Winterlights returns and is bigger and better than ever. Join us for magical experiences at three of our beautiful garden properties, Naumkeag in Stockbridge, The Stevens-Coolidge Place in North Andover, and new this year Eleanor Cabot Bradley Estate in Canton, as they sparkle with thousands of shimmering and artfully designed holiday lights. Bring the family for scavenger hunts, crafts, seasonal characters and experiences, food and refreshments, and more. Winterlights runs multiple evenings each week starting the weekend before Thanksgiving and running through the end of December.
Get your tickets early before they sell out.
PURCHASE TICKETS AND LEARN MORE HERE
As always, for a comprehensive list of family activities, please visit our friends at North Shore Kid.
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Rockport’s Winter Harbor
I took a quick drive around the Cape yesterday afternoon…post storm. Bearskin Neck looked so sleepy when I stopped at Front Beach to watch the waves. I do like how, while you can feel the chill in this photo, the pops of color still shine through. Rockport is pretty no matter what the season.
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Annisquam River Dredging
I love the lighting in this photo from Paul Horovitz of the dredging that is taking place in the Annisquam River. This crew has been hard at work for several days now.
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Open Schools at Harborlight Montessori
Harborlight is pleased to be hosting a series of Open School events during the next several months. Visiting and tour opportunities during the school day as well as evening events are available.
Wednesday, December 4th: 9:00 am: Observe working classrooms and tour campus
Wednesday, January 8th: 7:00 pm: Tour campus and meet faculty and staff
Wednesday, February 5th: 9:00 am: Observe working classrooms and tour campus
Reach out to info@harborlight.net or call 978-922-1008
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No Days Off
I sat and enjoyed a cup of coffee with the Man at the Wheel yesterday morning while Thatcher volunteered at the American Legion to help ensure that everyone enjoyed a Thanksgiving meal. He was watching the harbor as fearlessly and relentlessly as always. No days off for him. Thank you to all who worked yesterday while the rest of us enjoyed a day off with family. We are thankful for you.
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Nichole’s Picks 11/23 + 11/24
Pick #1: Winterlights at Stevens-Coolidge Place
Trustees’ Winterlights returns and is bigger and better than ever. Join us for magical experiences at three of our beautiful garden properties, Naumkeag in Stockbridge, The Stevens-Coolidge Place in North Andover, and new this year Eleanor Cabot Bradley Estate in Canton, as they sparkle with thousands of shimmering and artfully designed holiday lights. Bring the family for scavenger hunts, crafts, seasonal characters and experiences, food and refreshments, and more. Winterlights runs multiple evenings each week starting the weekend before Thanksgiving and running through the end of December.
Get your tickets early before they sell out.
READ MORE AND PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
Members: $12
Nonmembers: $17
Under 12: FREE
All tickets on sale now!
Pick #2: Gingerbread House Decorating at the Sawyer Free Library
CONTACT: Christy Rosso 978-325-5505 crosso@sawyerfreelibrary.org
LOCATION: Friend Room
Pick #3: Family Day at Castle Hill
Sunday, November 24
10AM-4PM
Free with regular property admission
Contact
978.356.4351 x3203
rdonovan@thetrustees.org
Location
Castle Hill on the Crane Estate
Ipswich, MA
Step back in time to 1929 and join us for a day of family fun at Castle Hill!
We’re bringing play back into the Crane Estate with fun activities for the whole family through out the day.
Ongoing activities on the Ground Floor of the Great House will include:
- Card games from the 20s
- Storytime
- Coloring Station with 1920s and Castle Hill Coloring Pages
- Napkin Folding Station
- Servant Interactions around the Ground Floor
In addition, photographer Cristin Gisler will be on-site to do family photos from the roof of the Great House. If you still need a holiday family photo, time slots can be scheduled by emailing: rdonovan@thetrustees.org
Tours of the Great House will continue as usual with Guest of the Cranes running every hour on the hour. (Last tour is at 3 PM.)
As always, for a comprehensive list of family activities, please visit our friends at North Shore Kid
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Order Your Pie to Support “Pie in the Sky” and Pick Up at Engel & Volkers
“More than a fundraiser, Pie in the Sky fosters community spirit by bringing together more than 20,000 people throughout Greater Boston – including bakers, Pies Sellers, volunteers, donors, and sponsors to create the “World’s Greatest Bake Sale” in support of Community Servings’ food and nutrition program.
Each fall, more than 100 of Greater Boston’s most generous bakers, chefs, and caterers bake and donate thousands of pies that more than 500 volunteers sell to family, friends, and coworkers. You can select an apple, pecan, pumpkin, or sweet potato pie to pick up before Thanksgiving at one of our 100+ pick-up locations. (includine Engel & Volkers By the Sea on Main Street in Gloucester)
Each $30 pie or donation provides a week’s worth of nutritious meals for a neighbor who is too sick to shop or cook for themselves or their families.
The last day to purchase pies is Saturday, November 23rd! Get your pie before the shopping cart closes!”
CLICK HERE to purchase or donate a pie!
🥧 Buy a pie and help someone in need! Hundreds of top bakers in the area donate pies to Pie in the Sky.
🥧 Each $30 pie (donation) provides a week’s worth of nutritious meals for a neighbor who is too sick to shop or cook for themselves or their families.
🥧 If you donate and purchase a pie you can come pick it up at many locations around MA including Engel & Volkers by the Sea on Main Street in Gloucester.
View their unbelievably impressive list of restaurants and bakers. Who wouldn’t want a pie from someone on this list!
https://www.pieinthesky.org/bakers
