Nichols looks so festive! extended Valentine’s week hours

Posted on by Catherine

Valentine’s Week Hours

  • Monday, Feb. 10 – 9:00am to 3:00pm
  • Tuesday, Feb. 11 – Closed
  • Wednesday, Feb. 12 – 9:00am to 3:00pm
  • Thursday, Feb. 13 – 9:00am to 3:00pm (yes, we will be open!)
  • Friday, Feb. 14 – 9:00am to 3:00pm
  • Saturday, Feb.15 – 9:00am to 3:00pm
  • Sunday Feb. 16- 10:00 am to 3:00 pm

nicholscandies.com

Theatre & Women’s History on Castle HIll

Posted on by James Eves

“Genius girl” will shock and delight audiences

Women’s History Month stage play celebrates a pioneering woman of science

Charles Babbage (Christopher DeStefano) and Ada Byron Lovelace (Stanis Ames) contemplate the future of “thinking engines” while the memory of Ada’s father, Lord Byron (Gary Ames) looks on. Photo by Cynthia August

You’ll flunk this quiz: Who wrote the first computer program?

Believe it or not, it was a brilliant young woman in the U.K.

Now guess when.

Answer: the 1850’s. That’s right: long before computers were even invented.

And if you remember the classic poet Lord Byron, here’s a bit you’ll really love: That young girl, Ada Byron Lovelace, was the poet’s only daughter — and he abandoned her.

All of which somehow makes for a heartwarming, heartbreaking, inspiring stage play, Ada and the Engine, presented by Castle Hill Productions, at the Crane Estate in Ipswich February 27 through March 9.

Featuring some of the North Shore’s most beloved actors, Ada reveals a tangle of family tensions and an intriguing glimpse into the mind of a child genius who produced revolutionary scientific work in spite of rigid Victorian-Era attitudes about women.

“It’s the perfect production for Women’s History Month,” says director Kristina Grundmann, who founded the theatre company for The Trustees, the non-prof that owns and operates the Castle Hill property. “A girl haunted by her absent celebrity father, partnering with a male inventor but mentored by a female scientist, navigating her mother’s anger — it’s a whirlwind. But a beautiful whirlwind, because it’s such a brilliant, delightful script.”

Ada and the Engine was written by Laura Gunderson, one of the theatre world’s most popular new playwrights.

The play will be presented in the intimate ballroom of the Crane Estate’s grand mansion. As a result, seating is extremely limited. Theatre lovers are urged to buy tickets online immediately. Trustees members will pay $28, non-members $35. For more information: www.TheTrustees.org/Ada, or phone 978.356.4351.

Ada and the Engine stars Stanis Ames (of Salem) as Ada, along with Karen Dervin (Billerica), Chris DeStefano (Ipswich), Conor Burke (Somerville), Julie Butters (Salem), and Gary Ames (Salem).

WHERE: Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, 290 Argilla Rd., Ipswich

WHEN: February 27-March 9, Thursday-Saturday at 7 pm, Sundays at 6 pm

HOW: Tickets may be purchased online in advance. Trustees Member: $28. Nonmember: $35. Please visit TheTrustees.org/Ada or call 978.356.4351 for more information.

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About the Trustees

Founded by landscape architect Charles Eliot in 1891, The Trustees has, for more than 125 years, been a catalyst for important ideas, endeavors, and progress in Massachusetts. As a steward of distinctive and dynamic places of both historic and cultural value, The Trustees is the nation’s first preservation and conservation organization, and its landscapes and landmarks continue to inspire discussion, innovation, and action today as they did in the past. We are a nonprofit supported by members, friends and donors and our more than 120 sites are destinations for residents, members, and visitors alike, welcoming millions of guests annually. www.thetrustees.org.

Rhumb Line Chili Cookoff Winners 2025

Posted on by Pat D

Fred Shrigley announced the winners of the 2025 Chili Cookoff. I don’t know who gets photo credit on this as I just borrowed it from Fred’s Facebook page, but it’s not my photo. Fred says: “Sunday was so much fun with so many great variations of chili. Pictured here are the top three.1st Place Chris Silva 2nd place Susan Gould Coviello and 3rd place Eve Favalora and the customers voted for Chris #1, Paul McDermont 2nd and Brenda Leahy 3rd” We got there late but were able to congratulate some of the winners. Well done once again Rhumb Line, participants and customers.

Scenes from Cape Ann Symphony Annual Meeting. Special Event and Dinner at Minglewood.

Posted on by Catherine

photos: The Cape Ann Symphony Annual Meeting was held in Minglewood Harborside (the Tavern) full service special event space on January 29, 2025.

What an impressive and humble assembly of dedicated supporters! Many board members have helped the symphony for years. Board President, John Todd, reviewed the prior season and made certain to introduce the contributions and efforts of CAS officers and members, like Martha and Roy Mayne from Manchester. Martha has been hanging CAS posters for 15 years on Cape Ann and beyond. Her husband, Roy, now assists her. Todd extended regrets from Maestro Yoichi Udagawa who was attending to his father. Robert Ellis, Chair of the Program Committee explained that planning for the 2025/2026 season is well underway and the program reveal will be announced soon. Shhh! Don’t forget that a major milestone anniversary is on the horizon for Cape Ann Symphony, a cultural anchor on Cape Ann then and now. There is so much fun history to tap into. Lynn Khambaty mentioned that the Cape Ann Symphony Musicians Unleashed Sunday Broadway event was sold out, and detailed how these small delights evolved from antecedents decades past when donations were dropped in a bowl at the back.

In the meantime, the Cape Ann Symphony big spring concert for the current season is coming up Sunday March 16th at 2pm: Mendelssohn, Saint-Sëans, & Beethoven featuring guest artist, a returning and CAS audience favorite, cellist Owen Young! Buy tickets here. Check out the poster designed by board member Monty Lewis below the photo block for more info. Cape Ann Symphony is a professional regional symphony that is well and widely regarded and a treasure to experience its impact so close to home.

The service was excellent and the food was terrific for this congenial Annual Meeting and celebration. Minglewood’s event space has a dedicated full bar along its Rogers Street wall and customizable table layout and menu design. The original Chris Williams Octopus sculpture was re-sited from the old Latitude’s waterfront entrance to out front here and looks fantastic.

Fundraiser At The Farm Bar and Grille This Week

Posted on by Pat D

I don’t know anything more than what is presented here from the Farm Bar and Grille on Western Ave in Essex but perhaps if you are available, stop this Thurs Feb 6 by to support.

The West Parish 5th Grade Presents Disney’s 101 Dalmations kids! Next Week! #GloucesterMA

Posted on by Catherine

PHOTOS: Courtesy photos taken by WP 5th grade Parent Liaison Jordan Horne

The West Parish 5th Grade presents Disney’s 101 Dalmations Kids 

Starring the entire West Parish 5th Grade!

Director: Heidi Dallin (Guest Teaching Artist)

Music Director: Anthony  Prestgiovanni (West Parish Music Teacher) ;

Set, Props and Costumes by Lauren Grace (West Parish Art teacher) and the 5th Grade students 

Parent Liaisons:  Katharine Worth and Jordan Horne

Chief Edward Conley is pleased to welcome Officer Jared Lopez as the Gloucester Police Department’s newest member. 

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

Officer Lopez officially joined the department on Jan. 13, during a swearing-in ceremony. 

Officer Lopez is originally from Lynn and attended Salem State University, where he received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in criminal justice. 

Following his education, Officer Lopez began his career with Essex County Sheriff’s Department where he served as a Deputy Sheriff from 2019 to 2021. In 2021, he joined the Rockport Police Department.

Outside of work, Officer Lopez enjoys practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and spending time with his family. 

“I want to welcome Officer Lopez as the newest member of our department,” said Chief Conley. “Officer Lopez has a true passion for law enforcement, and through his dedication and professionalism, I know he will be a great addition to our department. I wish him the best of luck in the next chapter of his career.”

Glosta So Schweeeet Downtown Gloucester Feb 8&9 Promotions Video only 5 Days Away!

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

Great video put together by The Dress Code!

Pat and I hope to see you at 44 Main where we will be giving away some sweet treats made by “Ma” and great deals with pre-Valentine’s wrapped presents!

GrillFriends new Hours

Posted on by Donna Ardizzoni

~WE ARE SO EXCITED TO SHARE THE NEWS~~

GUESS WHAT?!? Many of you have asked – We listened! Starting this Tuesday, February 4th, GrillFriends will be expanding our winter hours – WE ARE OPENING TUESDAYS from 8a – 2p!!

NEW WINTER HOURS:
Sunday/Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday – 8A – 2P
Thursday/Friday/Saturday – 8A – 7P

Burger and Beer Monday Nights At The James

Posted on by Pat D

I noticed this announcement from The James in Essex (formerly the Village) and thought it might be of interest. We have enjoyed every meal we’ve had at The James and are very happy to see this new special offer. If you see us there, say hello!

PTSD? How CBD Can Help!

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

 BY ANGEL WINGS WELLNESS

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is a complex form of anxiety experienced by individuals who have been exposed to traumatic situations. While PTSD is often associated with War Veterans, it can also also effect those who have experienced various types of abuse or traumatic events. CBD has shown promising results in helping individuals manage their symptoms. The anti-anxiety, anti-stress, anti-inflammatory and antipsychotic effects of CBD can provide a more mentally stable environment for those living with PTSD. 

By potentially alleviating anxiety, stress, and other PTSD related symptoms, CBD can support individuals in regaining control of their lives. However, it is crucial to speak with qualified expert on CBD. Please if you or anyone you know are struggling with any form of PTSD, please call to schedule an appointment or come by Friday or Saturday 11-4 to discuss how CBD can improve the quality of your life!

These new “CALM” gummies have Gaba and L-Theanine for better anti-anxiety support! Come on by to try some FREE SAMPLES! 

Angel Wings Wellness  12 Rogers Street Gloucester or call for an appointment or phone consultation  978-985-4592