A Journey Through the Roots of American Popular Music

 ~ SAWYER FREE LIBRARY

On Saturday, January 17 from 2:00 to 3:15pm take a journey through the roots of American popular music at the Sawyer Free Library in the Community Room. 

A Journey Through the Roots of American Popular Music is a program of songs and stories about the origins of the blues, rock, and country music presented by singer and songwriter Jon Waterman. In the show, Jon is joined by Li Waterman on bass. The program, which also features an accompanying slideshow, explores some of the fascinating characters and events that are part of the history and the role of music in our lives. Register at sawyerfreelibrary.org

The program has been described as, “a unique performance experience combining music history, storytelling, and original songs inspired by his research.” And “A must see for anyone interested in American history or American music!” 

Musician and songwriter Jon Waterman has been performing his original songs along with blues, rock and country standards throughout his life. His music is influenced by intriguing characters and stories from history, the roots of the music he loves, and the diversity of the human experience. His song “Sultana” which tells the story of the Civil War steamboat disaster was selected to be featured at the Sultana museum in Marion, AR. Waterman has presented his programs “A Journey Through the Roots of American Popular Music” and “Cro-Magnon Blues: History and Legends Through Song” in venues around the country, both in person and virtually. He has an M.A. in Popular Music History from Prescott College. Li is a classically trained guitarist and singer who formerly fronted the Rhode Island band Alien Tesh. She is also an artist and graduate of Museum School in Boston.

For more information or to register for this exciting program go to sawyerfreelibrary.org.

Meet Joela and Joclyn

Their Mama was an outdoor cat who had her kittens in a flower bed. The finder reached out to rescuers in North Carolina to see if they could keep her safe while she raised her kittens. Joela is on the more shyer side, but once you spend some time with her and she becomes comfortable, you’ll this duo is very playful and love attention. Playing with their toys, snuggling in the hammock, and enjoy feeding time. Take one of these sweet kittens home with you and you won’t be disappointed!

Apply today at capeannanimalaid/catapp

BreedDomestic Shorthair/Mix Age9 months 5 days GenderFemale SizeMedium ColorGrey/White Spayed/NeuteredDeclawedNo HousetrainedYes Adoption Price$275.00 

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Cape Ann Animal Aid

Christopher Cutler Rich Animal Shelter
4 Paws Lane
Gloucester, MA 01930

(978) 283-6055

www.CapeAnnAnimalAid.org

www.facebook.com/CapeAnnAnimalAid

Peaceful Transition At City Hall

I visited City Hall last week on the first Monday following the inauguration of our new Mayor, Council and School Committee members. City Hall was as peaceful and serene as I usually find it leading me to appreciate the empowerment behind a smooth transition between administrations, councils and school committees across the state and nation.

Cape Ann Symphony Orchestra Notice of ANNUAL MEETING January 14, 2026

It’s that time of year again! Hear the news about 2025 and what’s coming next!!

“The annual meeting of the Cape Ann Symphony Orchestra, Inc. will be held on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 7:00pm in the Christopher Columbus Room at the Minglewood Harborside, 25 Rogers Street in Gloucester.  The public is invited. The purpose of this meeting is to hear reports of the past year’s activity by the Music Director, President, Treasurer, Manager and Board Officers. The meeting is also convened to elect Directors and Officers for the period from February 1, 2026, through January 31, 2027.”

For further information, contact the Cape Ann Symphony at (978) 281-0543 or info@capeannsymphony.org.

A walk on Wingaersheek Beach

Before the sunset on Friday, took a walk at Wingaersheek Beach.  Another one of Gloucester’s beautiful beaches.  Grateful

Gloucester’s Poop Meter Readings Are Off The Charts

Gloucester Wastewater Treatment Plant Data from BioBot is in. Flu levels are SEVERE this week & COVID levels are VERY HIGH. Stay informed by reading the full nurse report on the City of Gloucester website👉https://tinyurl.com/nursesreport.

Traveling? Consider wearing a mask or taking a COVID-19/Flu test to help protect friends and family.
😷Pick up both masks & tests at the Health Department in the City Hall Annex on 3 Pond Rd in Gloucester!
🧪COVID-19 and flu test kits limited to one box per family.
⏰Office Hours:
Mon-Wed: 8:00am – 4:00pm,
Thur: 8:00am – 6:30pm,
Fri: 8:00am – 12:30pm.

You can also get a free COVID-19 vaccination, along with Flu, RSV, and Shingrix (by appointment only).
Call (978) 325-5266 to schedule.

GloucesterHealthDepartment

Howdy Cape Ann From Salty’s Bagels!!!

We’ll be open in Rockport this Saturday & Sunday 8:00 am – to sellout at 1 Whistlestop Mall in Rockport.

Bagel of the Week: Maple Salt +Pepper!

We will also be at the Downtown Lowell Farmers Market @#thehivepublicmarket 101 Paige Street

on Sunday, 01/11 from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm or sellout!

Pre-Order at www.saltysbagels.com