Author: Pat D

Second Glace opened its bookstore, Off the Wall, within its own walls on Pond Street a few days ago so I stopped by to take a look. I found a warm, inviting space FULL of books, music and movies available at very reasonable prices. Adult books sell for 75 cents, childrens books 50 cents; CDs and DVDs are $1 (though DVD seasons are a little higher).

I saw many current titles available and the staff (thanks Laurel and Susan) is friendly. The sales support the Open Door; it’s definitely a win-win. Stop in and shop a bit.

This post is a continuation of yesterday’s regarding the Cape Ann Museum. Now in its third and final month, the special exhibit A Father and Son’s Journey in Paint showcasing the work of Tom and T.M. Nichols is spectacular! It’s worth a special trip to the Museum. A Gallery Talk is scheduled for Saturday March 14 at 9:30 am about the works of these two artists. Contact the museum for reservations at CapeAnnMuseum.org/events

When you have company, Cape Ann Museum is a “must see”. My daughter and I wandered through the exhibits at a leisurely pace enjoying the variety of exhibits and artwork. If you haven’t been in a while, I suggest stopping in, even if you aren’t entertaining company.

I admit, the sandwich board on the sidewalk promising a Reuben Sandwich drew me in. It was spur of the moment, but I’m so glad that sign called out to me! Blood orange mimosa, warm popover and a Reuben. Perfect.

The Mill opened recently in Essex at 121 Eastern Ave and it is completely charming. I spoke with owner Josh who has been very pleased with the response so far. This cozy cafe serves baked goods, soups sandwiches and other goodies 7 Am – 5 PM every day except Monday. Megan served me the best scone I have had in a very long time: blueberry with lemon glaze. So good! It’s right next to Schooner’s Market. Give it a try.

Sugar Magnolia’s on Main Street is open and waiting for you!

Working to move Gloucester forward.

I saw a splash of yellow blooms in the Betty Smith Garden and had to hope out and share it with you all. It seemed to me that Triton was trumpeting the announcement of Spring on the horizon.

I happened to be looking at the Gloucester Daily Times from Aug 7 1959 when President Eisenhower was in office and Gloucester was being led by its first female mayor, Beatrice Corliss. Some of these faces, vessels and family names might ring a bell with our readers. Check out the tire prices! I hope the memories bring a smile to some faces today.

I took CB (crystal ball) around town yesterday to some familiar sights. I wonder how many of these spots you recognize?

The new Chamber of Commerce building at 24 Harbor Loop seems to be coming right along. The former Capt. Bill’s Whale Watch is going to look very different! Also coming right along seems to be the new Harbormaster’s office area at 19 Harbor Loop. It appears much of the current work is inside work on both projects and the workers had a great day for it yesterday!

The mostly green building pictures are of the new Chamber of Commerce. The mostly red ones are the Harbormaster’s Office and area nearby.

Welcome back. Mom’s Kitchen now open in new location on Commercial Street. Best wishes! Thanks for taking care of GMG Jimmy.

We recently had dinner at Minglewood and we thoroughly enjoyed it. Sometimes I think “bar” when I think of Minglewood, but, rest assured it’s a wonderful dinner experience. Jim enjoyed his sandwich and also treated himself to the cheesecake. My haddock had the most delicious lemon sauce! I cannot wait to go back. Bonus: it’s a Serenitee restaurant so we got points! There’s always something going on at Minglewood. Thanks Zach and staff for a delightful evening.

I took myself to the Franklin Park Zoo recently because I hadn’t been there and I was in a mood to see the animals. I know there are differing opinions about the benefit (or detriment) of zoos and I understand these viewpoints, but I just love zoos. I like watching the animals and the other visitors’ reactions. And I like taking their pictures. The Franklin Park Zoo is reasonably priced ( my senior ticket was about $17) and parking is free (though I had a bit of a hard time finding the parking). It’s small-ish and easily done in a day, including travel. Maybe you’ll give it a try too. Stone Zoo next on my list! And, now that March has arrived, will it be coming in like these lions?

Two weeks! White Farms opening for the season in Ipswich.

I expect you know by now that it’s Leap Year Day, a day that appears on our calendars only once in 4 years. For that reason, it holds mystery and fun for many people, except perhaps those born on this date who only get to celebrate “real” birthdays far less often than the rest of us. PS and BTW Birthday shout out to FOB Paula Ryan O’Brien!

As you are making the best of this extra day (on a Saturday too!), I hope you enjoy this list of freebies and trivia from USA Today: https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/food/2020/02/28/2020-leap-day-deals-freebies-specials-saturday/4882835002/

Frenchman’s Pier at Little River Landing in West Gloucester looking pretty spectacular.

We went for dinner Monday night at Oliver’s Harbor on Main Street and they assured their status as one of our favorites. Theresa served us efficiently and offered solid suggestions which we appreciated. GMG Jimmy raved about the squash bisque. The Spicy Panko Scallops were a wonderful treat. The fries I got with my burger were outstanding. Jim very much enjoyed his Linguine Vongole. If you’re on the fence about giving it a try, get off the fence……

Beth Swan was announced as the winner of Gloucester’s 400th Anniversary Commemorative Medal Design Competition last night at the City Council meeting. Bruce Tobey and Bob Gillis introduced some of the background information and thanked the numerous volunteers involved in the process, then Ruth Pino had the honor of opening the sealed envelope containing the winner’s name. It was an exciting moment. Unfortunately Beth could not be there, but the other two artists were in attendance to hear the exciting news that each of the medals will be cast! Shannon Wilkins ( her design was titled “Gloucester: America’s Oldest Seaport”) and Alexis Chipperini (“Call of the Storm”) were in attendance to hear that each design would be cast and to accept congratulations from the large crowd in attendance.  Jim was manning the camera while I livestreamed the event to Facebook, so check GMG for the live coverage if you are interested. Congratulations Beth!

Trying not to prolong the alliteration unnecessarily, but I think it’s a Northern Harrier Hawk. I admire the concentration!