I’m sharing this for my dad and his wife, and their sweet baby, Nikolai.
He was born on March 10th, about four weeks early. We knew going into it that he had a heart defect, but there were also complications during birth where he developed a lung infection, and needed immediate care. He responded well to the antibiotics and was able to hear Dad’s voice and open his eyes.
On March 16th, Nikolai had open heart surgery as his infection in the lungs had improved. After an almost 13 hour surgery, he had a serious setback and needed urgent intervention. The team acted quickly, bringing him back into surgery and placing him on ECMO for additional support.
Since then, he’s continued to fight through all of it. It’s been a lot in a very short amount of time, but he is one strong boy and is fighting every step of the way.
My dad and his wife have been going back and forth from Gloucester to Boston every day just to be with him, while also trying to keep things going at home (including caring for their dog, Miss Sadie). It’s a lot to carry, in every sense.
We’re incredibly grateful for the medical team taking care of him at Boston Children’s Hospital. They’ve been steady, thoughtful, and just really good to our family through all of this. Words do not come close to the level of gratitude for the skill and heart of these medical professionals.
If you know my dad, you know he’s always been someone who shows up for people without hesitation. I just wanted to make a space for anyone who’s asked how to help to be able to do that.
There’s no pressure at all. But anything will go toward helping with the day-to-day of this; travel, food, time away from work, medical bills and everything that comes with having a baby in the hospital.
If donating isn’t possible, sharing this or keeping Nikolai in your thoughts means just as much.
We look forward to the re-opening of The Lobster on East Main St April 1, especially with Easter coming right up that weekend. The Lobster is offering Easter Brunch! Sounds perfect.
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Went to Kalamata Greek Kitchen on Thursday for lunch. Their Greek Lemon Soup is so good, I actually get excited knowing that is what I will be having for lunch. The warm Pita bread hits the spot. The staff and ambiance are great as well.
112 Main Street,
Gloucester, MA 978-258-0960
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Whether your heart is with Cape Ann nonprofits or broader causes, we’ll help you build a structure designed to make your generosity last.
👉 Ready to make your giving more meaningful, intentional, and impactful? Let’s design your philanthropic strategy together. Call us today at 978-283-0748 to schedule a meeting.
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Do you have company coming in for Easter ? Do you need some ideas for activities? Maybe you just want them to clear out so you can prep for Sunday?? We’ve got you covered for Saturday April 4. There will be a sip and shop Spring Market at Minglewood from 11-4. Pat D’s Photos will be there among other local vendors. Then you can swing over to the Elks on Atlantic Road for the LRC fundraiser tournament from 4-7 (sip and shoot the dice). Maybe you’ll win a prize from Pat D’s Photos in the raffle! Mark the date! See you there.
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Annisquam Village Church 820 Washington Street . Gloucester MA
$40, suggested donation
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Tom Palance & Friends will perform Saturday, March 28, 2026 @ 7:00pm at the Annisquam Village Church, Gloucester MA. This popular quintet is led by veteran trumpeter Tom Palance, who has performed for five US Presidents and shared the stage with Clark Terry, Arturo Sandoval, Doc Severinsen and other celebrated artists. He will be joined by two-time Grammy Nominee Mark Earley on saxophone, percussionist Jim Latinni, the piano wizardry of Jeff D’Antona, and Dave Landoni on bass.
These seasoned performers play regularly North of Boston and never disappoint. Their repertoire includes both classic and contemporary jazz standards, blues, and popular songs — all with the quintet’s unique twist. This will be their second appearance at the acoustically superb AVC.
Don’t miss this special musical evening!
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The auction is posted online now for early preview at bid.capeannauction.com Bidding begins Wednesday, March 25th.
Hey Joey, GMG probably has the biggest social media following on the Island, soI’m writing to ask for your help promoting the online benefit auction we are hosting to support the families of the seven souls lost aboard the Gloucester fishing vessel F/V Lily Jean. We have launched an online Benefit Auction for the F/V Lily Jean Fund with 100% of the proceeds — including the buyer’s premium — going directly to the F/V Lily Jean Fund, a 501(c) organization created to support the families of the crew. All payments for lots won from the auction will be made by check directly to the F/V Lily Jean Fund. The auction is posted online now for early preview at bid.capeannauction.com Bidding begins Wednesday, March 25th. We will be having a LIVE PREVIEW for this auction on the day the auction starts: Wednesday, March 25th from 3 pm to 7 pm, at our Gloucester, MA location at 159 Maplewood Ave. (The old Linsky’s Garage) Information about the auction can be found at the following Info & updates page: https://www.capeannauction.com/post/benefit-auction-for-families-of-7-lost-on-f-v-lily-jean Highlights include important original Cape Ann art and other generous donations, such as paintings by Parker Perkins, Tom Nicholas and TM Nicholas, John Terelak, Charlie Movalli, Robert Gruppe, along with antiques, sterling jewelry and contributed by individuals and businesses who care deeply about our community. How you can help: Share the auction link and blog post with your audience via email, social media, website, bulletin, or community boards.Post or distribute the event flyer (linked on our information page) in your organization, store, or neighborhood. Encourage people to register to bid (simple one-time registration) and to participate in any way they can — bidding, donating, or simply spreading the word.Even a brief mention in a newsletter, a social media post, or a note on your website can make a real difference. Word of mouth is the most powerful tool we have, and with an event like this, every share is an act of solidarity with these families. If you are willing to help, I can provide a short blurb, images, and links tailored to your audience, or you are welcome to use any language from the blog post linked above. If you have questions or ideas for additional outreach, please contact me directly at walt@capeannauction.com or (978) 395-7077. (Texting first is best!) On behalf of Cape Ann Auction and our staff, thank you for anything you can do to support the families of the F/V Lily Jean and to honor the memory of the seven we lost. With gratitude, Walt Kolenda & The Staff at Cape Ann Auction 159 Maplewood Ave Gloucester, MA 01930 (978) 395-7077walt@capeannauction.comwww.capeannauction.com