Month: October 2023

Local Author Katherine Babson & her dog Pippi at SFL at 21 Main Street on Saturday, 11/4

~ Sawyer Free Library

Pippi Rocks! More Stories from the Dog Blog!

This Saturday, November 4 from 10:30 to 11:15 am join local author Katherine (Gig) Babson and Pippi her black Labrador retriever at Sawyer Free Library at 21 Main Street as they share their newest picture book.  Hear stories from their many outdoor adventures at Dogtown, a favorite local spot of theirs on Cape Ann. The 26 Babson Boulders, which are engraved with inspirational inscriptions such as Kindness, Courage, & Never Try, Never Win are featured in their outdoor Dogtown adventures as well as Pippi’s training!

Pippi Rocks, More Stores from the Dog Blog is a charming tale of a curious, exceedingly clever Young Dog’s exploits. The antics of Pippi are non-stop in these tales of her mischievous adventures by Katherine (Gig) Babson. The book is a warm and inspiring affirmation of how a dog’s and its owner’s reciprocal love brings deep and unique meaning to their lives.

Registration is not required. All are welcome! For more information visit, sawyerfreelibrary.org or 978-325-5500.

‘REFUSING TO PAY,’ GLOUCESTER’S ROLE IN THE SEPARATION OF CHURCH AND STATE AND BUILDING RELIGIOUS FREEDOM IN AMERICA, NOVEMBER 18TH AT 2:00PM IN THE HISTORIC 1806 MEETINGHOUSE AT 50 MIDDLE STREET

~ chasnaz

This three-part program was specially created for Gloucester’s 400th Anniversary Celebration to share the story of how the Rev. John Murray and Gloucester Universalists in the 1780s set the key New England precedents for the Constitutional separation of church and state and promise of religious liberty throughout the country.

The opening segment is a video made for this occasion that tells the story about how Murray’s followers refused to pay Gloucester taxes in 1782 to support the town’s church system. Their valuables were seized so they had to sue the state to get them back. They won a Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruling in 1786 that said “a free populace cannot be taxed to support a state church.”

Rev. Murray was in close contact with John Adams and other Founders, so this news traveled quickly to the Constitutional Convention in 1787, providing an important precedent the First Amendment’s Establishment Clause: ‘Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof…’

The second segment features a monologue the Rev. John Murray, acted by Charles Nazarian, who magically returns to the Meetinghouse, sharing details about what happened around the famous court case. He will also explain how they also won a counter suit, brought by Gloucester Congregationalists, which eventually compelled the Massachusetts legislature to legally recognize diverse churches as well as Jewish synagogues.

The third segment will feature a panel discussion about why the guarantee of religious liberty matters as much today as it did in 1787 and how it remains an essential pillar of our democracy in this period of corrosive politics and culture wars seeking to deny freedom to minorities based upon religious beliefs. The audience will be invited to participate in Q&A with the panel.

A reception with light refreshments will follow at the Sargent House Museum, featuring the engraved silver pitcher that was confiscated from the home of Epes Sargent in 1782 to pay taxes to support the town’s Congregational Church’s expenses.  The museum is the elegant home of Judith Sargent Murray and her husband the Rev. John Murray, featuring exquisite family portraits, furnishings and possessions.

EVENT INFORMATION:  The event is free and open to the public.  The Meetinghouse, home of the Gloucester Unitarian Universalist Church, is at the corner of Middle and Church Streets, GPS: 50 Middle Street.  An accessible side entrance with an elevator is located at 10 Church Street.  The Sargent House Museum is located at 49 Middle Street.  For more information please visit: http://www.gloucestermeetinghouse.org

CREDITS:  This event was jointly produced by the Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation, the Gloucester Unitarian Universalist Church, and the Sargent House Museum. The video was created by Heather Atwood of 1623 Studios with Jon Brysh of New Leaf Productions. Screening and projection is being provided by the Cape Ann Community Cinema.  This presentation for the Gloucester 400th Celebration will be live-streamed on Channel 6 and will also be later available on YouTube.

Second Glance to Hold Trailblazing Women Printmakers Book Signing and Folly Cove Auction  

~ todtheopendoor
“Gloucester” wall hanging by Eino Natti, created in 1961, is one of three Folly Cove designs being auctioned off by Second Glance, Thrift Store of The Open Door.

Folly Cove enthusiasts and collectors are invited to a special event at Second Glance this November, featuring author Elena M. Sarni. Sarni will share a presentation from her newest book “Trailblazing Women Printmakers: Virginia Lee Burton Demetrios and The Folly Cove Designers,” followed by a book signing.  

WHEN: Thursday, Nov. 9 from 6-8 p.m.  

WHERE: SG Home at Second Glance, 2 Pond Road, Gloucester MA 01930 

TICKETS: are available for $10 each at bit.ly/follycoveticket. 

ONLINE AUCTION: Second Glance is also holding an online auction for five Folly Cove pieces donated to the store. The auction launched on Thursday, Oct. 26 at bit.ly/follycoveatsg and will remain live through the event. The auction will close one week after the event, on Thursday, Nov. 16. 

“My Friday” placemat by Aino Clarke, created in 1950, is one of three Folly Cove designs being auctioned off by Second Glance, Thrift Store of The Open Door. (Photo Courtesy of The Open Door) 
“Fiddle Dee Dee” tablerunner by Aino Clarke, created in 1951, is one of three Folly Cove designs being auctioned off by Second Glance, Thrift Store of The Open Door. (Photo Courtesy of The Open Door) 

Additional framed Folly Cove designs, on loan from a collector and not for sale, will also be on display for the event. Second Glance Thrift Store will remain open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 9 only in conjunction with the event.  

Light refreshments will also be available. 

The Deep: Research and Storytelling about Extreme Ocean Environments

~ Gloucester Marine Genomics Institute

You’re invited to GMGI’s Annual Art Science Lecture: Research and Storytelling About Extreme Environments with Dr. Matt Harke and Author Lindsey Leigh!

Join us on Thursday, November 2nd at 6pm at Gloucester Stage for an evening of art, science, and how one inspires the other.

Click here or see the image below for details. This event is free and open to the public!

Questions? Reach out to Rachel Borgatti at rachel.borgatti@gmgi.org.

‘THE HAUNTED HOUSE’ AND ‘THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA,’ HALLOWEEN SILENT MOVIES WITH THE PIPE ORGAN IN THE MEETINGHOUSE!!!

~ chasnaz

PETER KRASINSKI, WORLD-FAMOUS SONIC ARTIST AND MAESTRO OF THE PIPE ORGAN, IMPROVISES MUSIC FOR TWO GREAT SILENT MOVIE CLASSICS ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 28 AT 7:30PM IN THE HISTORIC GLOUCESTER MEETINGHOUSE!

$15 GENERAL ADMISSION, $ 5 STUDENTS, UNDER 12 FREE. COME EARLY FOR THE BEST SEATS. MAIN ENTRANCE ON THE GREEN, CORNER OF CHURCH AND MIDDLE STREETS; ACCESSIBLE SIDE ENTRANCE AT 10 CHURCH STREET. COSTUMES OPTIONAL BUT ENCOURAGED. FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!

PROGRAM: the famous and exciting PRELUDE AND FUGUE IN D-MINOR BY J.S. BACH; the hilarious slapstick comedy ‘THE HAUNTED HOUSE’ STARRING BUSTER KEATON; and the spooky, Halloween classic that takes you deep below the street level of Paris, France in ‘THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA’ STARRING LON CHANEY.

ADVANCE TICKETS AND MORE INFO AT: http://www.gloucestermeetinghouse.org

Tonight & Tomorrow Night Only!

~ Hammond Castle Museum

Timed Sessions: 6 -9 pm, Museum Closes at 10 pm.

Admission: $25

Leave the little ones at home for a night out and experience Hammond Castle Museum after dark as it comes alive with the spirit of Halloween.  Come dressed in your favorite Halloween costume to explore the hallowed halls of Hammond’s castle, the very rooms where legends of the inventor’s ghost ships were born!   

Visit the Alchemists laboratory in the Great Hall or walk amid the mysterious midnight mist in the courtyard while plenty of candles cast haunting shadows creating the perfect backdrop for your spookiest Halloween photos.  Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore Hammond Castle in all its eerie splendor. Whether you’re searching for the ravens we’ve hidden, enjoying the candlelit ambiance, or simply reveling in the Halloween spirit and taking your Halloween photos in the most majestic of spooky settings, our Costumes & Candlelight self-guided tours promise a hauntingly good time! Ideal for ages 13 & up.

Hammond Castle Museum member discounts apply! All proceeds from this program will support the restoration and preservation of the museum.

Reserve Your Tickets Here!

G400+ presents: Exploring the Colors of Cape Ann through Natural Dyeing with Artist Maia Mattson

~ g400+events
Photo by Tiana Cerone

The Gloucester 400+ and ROBBERSDAUGHTER are excited to present this inclusive, all ages art programming exploring the botany of Gloucester through natural dyeing.

Led by local artist Maia Mattson, this art programming weaves together community connection with the unique natural environment that surrounds us on Cape Ann. In these classes we will be using botanical materials exclusively sourced and foraged from Gloucester. Using these materials we will practice a variety of natural dyeing techniques and quilting design. Participants will have the opportunity to make their own 2’x3′ ft flag using the naturally dyed fabric. Participants can work in teams to design and create their flags or make their own. Toward the end of the art series we will facilitate a reception showcasing the work of the participants. All experience levels welcome, we will learn and experiment together! All classes will be hosted at the Gloucester 400+ Office at 123 Main St.

Sunday 5 10:30-11:30
Sun Nov 12 10:30-12 
Sun Nov 19 10:30-12 
Sun Nov 26 10:30-12
Sun Dec 3 10:30-12
Sun Dec 10 10:30-12
Sun Dec 17 10:30-12

Learn more about botanical artist Maia Mattson at www.maia-mattson.com

Rockport Middle/High School Performing Arts Performances Open to the Public

~ rockportpublicschools

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 10/18/23

Mark Branco

Rockport Public Schools

978-546-1200

mbranco@rpk12.org

Rockport Middle/High School Performing Arts Performances Open to the Public

Enjoy live music and theater performances put on by passionate and talented students

ROCKPORT, MA – The Rockport Middle/High School Performing Arts Department would like to invite interested community members to attend their upcoming student concerts and theater productions. 

RHS Drama Department presents their fall musical:  Xanadu

Performances will be held in the John Lane Auditorium at Rockport Middle/High School on Friday, November 3rd & Saturday, November 4th @ 7:00 p.m.; with a matinee on Sunday, November 5th @ 2:00 p.m. There is a suggested donation of $10.00 per person.

RMHS Music Department presents the following Fall and Winter performances: 

All Shows begin at 6:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted.

Thursday, November 16, 2023: RPS Orchestra Summit (Grades 4-12) – John Lane Auditorium, RMHS

Tuesday, November 28, 2023: MS/HS Jazz Performance – Shalin Liu Performance Center

Wednesday, November 29, 2023: MS/HS Small Ensemble & Acapella Choir – Shalin Liu Performance Center

Tuesday, December 19, 2023: RMS Band, Chorus & Orchestra Winter Concert – John Lane Auditorium, RMHS

Wednesday, December 20, 2023: RHS Band, Chorus & Orchestra Winter Concert – John Lane Auditorium, RMHS

All shows are open to the public. The Rockport Public Schools is appreciative of the incredible community support of the fine and performing arts programs and is proud to provide their students with a variety of high quality programs. 

Rockport Middle School Recognized by DESE as a School of Recognition

~ rockportpublicschools

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 10/12/23

Mark Branco

Rockport Public Schools

978-546-1200

mbranco@rpk12.org

Rockport Middle School Recognized by DESE as a School of Recognition

Districtwide results show positive growth at all grade levels

ROCKPORT, MA – Rockport Middle School is one of only 66 schools statewide to be recognized by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) as a School of Recognition for demonstrating high achievement and strong growth under the state’s MCAS accountability system. Districtwide results show that all grade levels demonstrated strong growth, particularly in mathematics at the elementary, middle and high school levels, and in English language arts at the middle school.

“Over the past few years, we have been focused on curriculum implementation, strengthening instructional practices, and providing targeted supports for students. This recognition is extremely appreciated by all of us at Rockport Public Schools. Our students’ success is a result of the determination and commitment of our talented educators who, in partnership with our families and community members, make RPS a fantastic place to learn” said Superintendent Mark Branco.

The District’s 2023 MCAS Results Summary and Results Overview Community Presentation are both available on the RPS website. 

Notable Mariners, Historians, Philanthropists & Artists    

~ cmaney27

At Oak Grove Cemetery on Saturday, October 21st, from 3:30 to 5PM the free 400+ cemetery tour, “Notable Mariners, Historians, Philanthropists & Artists” will provide you with stories of a number of notable individuals and families who called Gloucester their home such as Ben Pine, James Pringle, Samuel Sawyer, the Davis sisters, and Fitz Henry Lane.

The 0.5 mile walking tour will meander through the cemetery stopping to pay homage at select gravesites as well as giving you the opportunity to appreciate the lovely landscape and the variety of unique gravestones in Oak Grove. The guides for this walking tour are Courtney Richardson and Katy Marques.

Oak Grove Cemetery is located at 177 Washington Street, Gloucester, MA 01930.  The Saturday tour will meet at the main entrance of the cemetery near the Bradford Memorial Chapel. Street parking is on Washington Street since there is no parking in the cemetery. The cemetery is a 0.3 mile walk from the MBTA commuter rail station in downtown Gloucester. Please wear comfortable walking shoes. The cemetery is wheelchair accessible by using the paved and dirt packed byways. Rain date Sunday, Oct 22nd, 3:30PM.

For registration and details please go to the Eventbrite link below

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/notable-mariners-historians-philanthropists-artists-tickets-738247246387?aff=oddtdtcreator