Why Can’t We Be Friends?

Posted on by Nichole S.

I’m going to let you in on a little secret.

One of my best friends in the entire world has a penis.

I could stop this post there and assume you know what I’m getting at…but, for fear you’ll misinterpret my meaning, I’ll go on.

One of my very best friends is a boy.

That may not seem blog worthy to you, but as of late I’ve been wondering how many others out there have a best friend of the opposite sex.

This friend and I have been close for almost 20 years and he means the world to me.  I’m not going to lie, in the very beginning we toyed with the idea of being more than friends, but never much did.

One night, a few years into our friendship, we were out together on Christmas Eve and he introduced me to the man who is now my husband of 13 years and the father to our two sons.

My friend is still an amazing friend and I treasure his presence in my life in ways that are kind of hard to explain.  I know he’d do anything for me and he’s brutally honest in ways that are totally refreshing.  He’s one of the most generous people people I’ve ever met…and the laughing that comes when we’re together is priceless to me.  Really, truly, priceless.

He goes away for long periods of time for work and we go months (or even longer) without seeing each other, but when he comes home I’m beyond thrilled to see him.  Through the years he’s had a fair share of long term relationships….and I’ve met them all.  Some embraced me as his good friend, sometimes realizing that befriending me was as a hall pass of sorts….some didn’t quite understand and never much liked me.  Bygones.

My husband is supportive (well, maybe tolerant is a better adjective) because I think he really understands that this friendship is something that I need and cherish…even if I can’t so eloquently explain why.  But, I am well aware, it is a luxury that he is tolerant as most others raise an eyebrow and find it more than a bit strange.

Sometimes I understand why others find it strange….sometimes I don’t.  To be blunt, the fact that he has a penis doesn’t mean I’m going to see it any more than the fact that my girlfriends having boobies and a vagina means that I’m going to be seeing those.  I have plenty of girlfriends whose private parts I’ve certainly never seen.  Right?

So, I ask you, can men and women just be friends?  When Harry Met Sally tells us “no”, but I think “yes”.

Comment please if you do indeed (or ever have had) a good friend of the opposite sex and take the poll to add your opinion.

GloucesterCast With Guest Toby Pett and Host Joey Ciaramitaro Taped 10/03/14

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

GloucesterCastSquareGloucesterCast With Guest Toby Pett and Host Joey Ciaramitaro Taped 10/03/14
Subscribe to Get The GloucesterCast Podcast by Email For Free

Topics Include:Guest Toby Pett, Muffin Eating Etiquette, Donut vs Muffin, Last Stop Variety, Reasons For Not Getting A Flu Shot, The Internet and Bad Medical Information, Fenway Park Derek Jeter Love Fest, Anna and James Eves Chase Mission Main Street small business grant, Cape Ann Farmer’s Market, Maitland Farms Pickles, Toby Talks about Stuff He Baked That Had Nothing To Do with The Original Question, Mile Marker One Marshalls Farm and The Bridge Fall Fest, Mile Marker One $5 Burgers On Thursdays, The Causeway Restaurant, The Pool At Cape Ann Marina In the Winter, Fan of Fall and Shorter Days Or Not?, Cape Ann Chimney and Hearth, Bait Truck Comes Down With A Broken Pallet Jack Once Again, Bonus Mid-week Podcast.

Thanks To The Earl Foote Band For The Intro Music. Download Gloucester Til the End Free Here At Gimme Sound

Click to Listen to The GMG Podcast On Stitcher Radio On Demand For Free

2014-10-03 10.07.48Mr Effervescent.

Hello Sunshine!

Posted on by Kimsmithdesigns

Smiths Cove Gloucester MA -2 © Kim Smith 2014jpg copyYesterday’s late afternoon sun breaking through the clouds was a joy to see, even if only for a bit.

Smith's Cove Gloucester Ma ©Kim Smith 2014

Just curious–in the above photo, does anyone know what that box-shaped thing is at the end of the dock, below the seagull?

Smiths Cove Gloucester MA Lobster pots ©Kim Smith 2014Smith’s Cove, Gloucester

You Are Beautiful

Posted on by God's Morning

you are beautiful2

YOU’RE INVITED: OCT 15 ART RECEPTION TO HELP WOUNDED VETS

You’re invited to attend an art exhibition opening reception, featuring photographs of wounded veterans by Rockport-based artist, Thi Linh Wernau. “YOU. ARE. BEAUTIFUL. – A Tribute to Warriors” will feature 35 photographs from a series intended to honor the sacrifice of our wounded veterans, empower them with a vehicle for voice through art and inspire and help other veterans in need. A number of the veterans in this project will be in attendance at the reception.

In addition, the evening will help raise awareness of the invisible wounds of war, especially PTSD (post-traumatic stress) and TBI (traumatic brain injuries). The event will help support The Red Sox Foundation and Mass General Hospital Home Base Program, who provide clinical services to veterans and their families. Complimentary drinks and light appetizers will be provided. Attendance is free, but RSVP is requested by October 8.

WHEN? Wednesday, October 15, from 5:30 – 7:30PM (formal speaking program begins at 6:30PM)

WHERE? McGladrey Art Gallery, 80 City Square, Charlestown, MA

RSVP is requested by OCT 8. Click this link to register: http://goo.gl/8iYSWN OR you may also RSVP by joining the Facebook event page here: http://goo.gl/LgEDPU

This exhibition is proudly sponsored by: McGladrey, Wernau Asset Management, The New England Council.

To view examples of the artist’s photography, please visit: http://ThiLinh.com. If you have any questions, you can email the artist directly at twernau@gmail.com.

Flu Shot?

Posted on by Fredrik Bodin

You know I’ve had life threatening health issues. I asked my AGH cancer doctor when and if I should get a flu shot. He said get one now, it won’t interfere with my chemotherapy. On the way out, the hospital receptionist said she had no idea when the hospital flu shots would be offered, but soon: “Call next week.” Well, I called yesterday, a week later, and they still have no clue. I love my local hospital, Addison Gilbert, but please… Your local discount drug store is ready to help you. Sad.

Community Photos 10/3/14

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

Dot (Gloucester Quilter) and Bex Send In Some Love…

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John Nasser Represens! at St. Peter’s Basilica

Now that fall 2014 is upon us, I was going through some photos from this past summer and found this shot representing GMG at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City during our family trip in July to Italy and Sicily.

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Friday Oct 3rd , 2014 Cape Ann Weather …

Posted on by Peter J Lovasco

Marine Forecast :
Fri NE winds 10 to 15 kt. Gusts up to 20 kt in the morning. Seas 4 to 7 ft.
Fri Night NE winds 5 to 10 kt. Seas 4 to 7 ft.

Pod Cast Weather :
http://www.spreaker.com:80/episode/5035501

Hourly Forecast :

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Community Stuff 10/3/14

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

Gloucester Police Accepting Citizens Police Academy Applications

More than 100 Gloucester Residents Have Gone Through 4-Week Program

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Police Chief Leonard Campanello announces that the Gloucester Police Department is now accepting applications for the annual Citizens Police Academy program.

“Citizens Police Academy is a great way for our residents to learn what it is really like to be a police officer, working a beat and serving our community every day,” Chief Campanello said. “I encourage anyone with an interest in police work, or who simply wants to see how we do our jobs, to sign up.”

Running Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2014, and continuing for the next four weeks, the department will offer the free program for Gloucester residents age 18 and over.  Gloucester Police Officers will instruct students on subjects such as domestic violence, motor vehicle law, patrol procedures, accidents, firearms awareness, juvenile and drug problems, and many other topics relevant to police work.

The academy will also include a police ride-along and a tour of the Middleton House of Correction. 

This class experience is designed to bring citizens into the station and give them a clear picture of what it’s like to be a Gloucester Police Officer. Citizens will learn a great deal about all aspects of police work and leave with a true representation of life as a police officer.

Please complete the application and drop it off at the front desk of the police
station or mail it to:

Lt. John McCarthy
Gloucester Police Department
197 Main Street,
Gloucester, MA 01930

The department will notify accepted applicants on or before October 21. Feel free to  contact Lt. John McCarthy at 978-281-9900 with any questions

Hi Joey,

Being an artist and a Magnolia resident, thought our fellow Cape Ann folks might like to see the new nature and art series we have here at Mass Audubon. We have several properties on Cape Ann, however this one is in Topsfield. Hope you can post! J

Sue Ann Pearson
Development Assistant
Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary
87 Perkins Row / Topsfield MA 01983-1999

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Oarmaster’s Cup Race October 11th.

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This year’s Oarmaster’s Cup Race is scheduled for Saturday, October 11th, 10 AM at Maritime Gloucester.  The course will be the same as previous years starting off the pier at Maritime Gloucester out around Ten Pound Island and back (1-3/4 miles & pending weather).  This final race of the season crowns the finest “singles” rower in the US and all members are welcomed to participate or at the very least come down and watch.  Participants should reply to this email to pre-register.  If the weather cooperates we will finish the race heats and enjoy lunch on the pier.  Hope to see you all there!

IDRC News

Website redesign & 2015 Focus

A complete overhaul has been completed on the IDRC’s website to allow more up-to-date information, better connectivity to social media and easier access for our members (check it out at www.internationaldories.com).  We have included in the redesign better information for new members on how to get started and online payment options for dues.  This is a work in progress, so please offer any feedback or suggestions.
With our focus on the 2015 season, we are planning our year end board meeting for the end of October and hope to fill some empty seats.  Board members help make the yearly schedule, put on our various events, support our races, help with boat maintenance, make new member introductions, etc.  If you have some time to donate, please join us at our year end board meeting at the end of October (date/location tba).

Hi-

It would be so appreciated if you could help us spread the word on the Rockport Cub Scouts Haunted Hayride- Cape Ann’s only hayride put on by kids for kids!  Many thanks!

https://m.facebook.com/RockportPack55

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Hangs Upon Nothing – 16mm Surf Film, Oct. 4 Screening in Gloucester

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

Hi Joey,

 Looks like you have a really great blog going with Good Morning Gloucester. I’m an independent filmmaker, artist, and Lake Michigan surfer from NW Indiana, just outside of Chicago. I’m bringing my first feature length film to Gloucester this Saturday, it’s called HANGS UPON NOTHING. It’s a surf film I shot over the course of about seven years in some far corners of the world including Kiribati and Indonesia, following the lives of a few surfers I met along the way. I shot it entirely on 16mm film and scored the soundtrack with my band. I’m hoping you can take a look at my project, and if you dig it, maybe post something about the screening on Saturday night. The trailer(linked below) really sums up the feel of the movie well. It’s more of an audio visual experience than a traditional documentary.
I will be attending the screening, and bringing some hand printed film posters and a few other bits of art too. I’ve attached the poster I made for the screening, as well as a photo of some of the posters I’ll bring along. I’m really looking forward to this screening, and looking forward to checking out Gloucester and meeting some good people there!
HANGS UPON NOTHING
 A film about experiencing life on earth as a surfer.
 Oct. 4th, 7:30pm
Cape Ann Community Cinema
 Filmmaker Jeremy Rumas to attend screening.
Hangs Upon Nothing + silkscreen posters + trial proofs + designed by Jeremy Rumas + www.hangsuponnothing.com + blog Hangs Upon Nothing +Demian Underwater + S16mm film frame + by Jeremy Rumas + www.hangsuponnothing.com_cropped_852 wide Hangs Upon Nothing_Cape Ann Cummunity Cinema_Screening_Poster_www.hangsuponnothing.com_2000 high

“Discovered: The Monarchs Mexican Haven” from National Geographic, August 1976

Posted on by Kimsmithdesigns

National GeographicBecause of the current stretch of rainy weather there will be few Monarch sightings at this time. Butterfly’s wings don’t work very well in the cold and rain. We can hope that if the warm weather returns there will be a greater number of butterflies migrating through our region than the passel of last week. In the mean time, I thought I’d share one of my most treasured possessions, which is the August 1976 issue of National Geographic. I purchased this copy when I began doing research for my Monarch film and children’s book. If I remember correctly, it was $2.50 on eBay–lucky me to find a copy!!

The issue tells the story of the “discovery” of the Monarchs by scientists. I have reservations in writing the word discovery because it is difficult to imagine that the native peoples living in the region did not know of their existence long before westerners. As a matter of fact, the woman who led the discovery, Catalina Aguado, was  born in Michoacán, the Mexican state that is home to the butterflies wintering grounds. Catalina is the only living member of the original team featured in the 1976 National Geographic article.

The complete article is available to read online here.

There have been three interesting and noteworthy Monarch stories in the news recently, forwarded to us by our GMG FOBs. Stay tuned for a post tomorrow with summaries and links to all three articles.

 

 

 

Kayaking down the Essex River

Posted on by Donna Ardizzoni

On Sunday Rick and I decided to go kayaking down the Essex River out to Ipswich Bay. Had my small waterproof camera and was able to get a quick shot of an Osprey Nest. The color of the water with the marsh was amazing.
September 28, 2014 Osprey nest on the Essex River

Faculty – Student Exhibit at Cultural Center

Posted on by God's Morning

montserrat_endicott at cultural center

Faculty-Student Endicott College and Montserrat College of Art
Exhibit at Rocky Neck Cultural Center, October 2 – October 26, 2014
Public Reception Sunday, Oct. 5, 2 – 4 p.m.

Synthesis II: Endicott College and Montserrat College of Art Faculty and Student Exhibit, will be on view at the Cultural Center at Rocky Neck, 6 Wonson St., Gloucester, Thursday, October 2 – Sunday, October 26.

A public opening reception will be held on Saturday, October 5 from 2 – 4 pm.
The show will feature the works of Endicott College faculty members Meg Black, Krystal Demaine, Mari LaCure, Michael Miller, Carol Pelletier, Cynthia Roberts, Dean – Mark Towner, and Miles Warner. Montserrat College of Art faculty exhibiting are Judith Brassard Brown, Greg Orfanos, Justin Gagne, Gabrielle Keller, Lisa Perkins, Robert Roy, Julia Shepley, Blyth Hazen and Len Thomas-Vickory.
Students from both colleges will also have their works on view. Endicott exhibiting students are: Stephanie Alvarado-Ross, Samantha Hensel, Kayla Hodgetts, Alicia Luong, Suzie Newman, Kara Summerly, Graham Swayze, and Ruby Wallace-Ewing.
Montserrat College of Art students exhibiting are Adam Kooken, Mike Outhouse, Anthony Corrado, Katherine Roldan, Rory Bastille, Kerry McDermott, Alecia Parent/ Rebecca Segar collaborative piece and Chelsea Nee. Their work is from a semester-long documentary project of the plant and workers at the Salem Harbor Power Plant which was on display last June. The structure is now being demolished to make way for a new, smaller power plant. The project was funded by Footprint Power.
This will be fourth year for the joint Montserrat-Endicott show at Rocky Neck, formerly held on a weekend at the Goetemann Residency Studio and now expanded to a four-week exhibition at the Cultural Center.

The exhibition will include a variety of media including painting, photography, book arts, sculpture, illustration, graphic design, and mixed media, and will be on both floors of the Rocky Neck Cultural Center.

Mark Towner, Dean for the School of Visual and Performing Arts at Endicott College states, ““There is a long history of exhibiting art by students alongside their professors’ art. The process reveals interesting patterns of media, style, and subject. The presentation of art created by individuals from different institutions, most often occurs in the form of an open competition.

“In the spirit of unity and celebration, this exhibition at Rocky Neck Cultural Center integrates both approaches. The end result provides multiple actions and dynamic reactions, to form a more complex picture: A synthesis most worthy of examination and the titling of this exhibit.”

Montserrat College of Art President Steve Immerman said he is “Montserrat values its collaboration with the creative community on Cape Ann, and especially the Rocky Neck Art Colony. We are so pleased to be able to showcase the work of our talented faculty and students with a larger audience.”

Gallery hours are Thursday through Sunday from noon to 4 pm.
For more information, contact the Cultural Center at 978-515-7004
rockyneckartcolony.org

Free Celtic Concert at Orthodox Congregational Church in Lanesville – Saturday 10/4/14

Posted on by Vickie & Peter

Crossing poster Gloucester (B)

Free Celtic music concert on Saturday October 4th in Lanesville at the Orthodox Congregational Church featuring The Crossing, visiting from Chicago. Doors open at 5:30 PM. They will play at the Firehouse in Newburyport on Sunday October 5th at 3PM. Tickets for the Sunday concert are $15. Find out more at www.grrrrecords.com/crossing.