Month: July 2024

~ Hammond Castle Museum

Fairytales do come true at castles by the sea!

Join us for a magical morning of stories by the sea! Spread out on our ocean-facing lawn for an unforgettable experience that is perfect for little princes and princesses, this event combines the wonder of storytelling with the beauty of our castle grounds. We’ll have plenty of bubbles, snacks, and music too! We encourage little ones to dress up in their favorite crown, gown, or anything else that makes them happy!]

If you wish to tour the Museum after this program, ticket holders may purchase Self-Guided Tour tickets in the Museum Shop at a 20% discount. Little ones 4 and under enjoy FREE admission to guided and self-guided tours!

Tickets for this event are $10 for adults, Kids 8 and under are $5. Hammond Castle Museum Member savings apply. Space is limited, so reserve your spot today for a storybook adventure your child will treasure!

Reserve Your Tickets Here!

Garden Storytime with Backyard Growers at Sawyer Free Library’s Garden Bed

~ Sawyer Free Library

Backyard Growers brings a fun outdoor children’s gardening program to the Sawyer Free Library in a series of Thursday morning events at 10:00 am throughout the summer! Children will plan, plant, water, weed, maintain and harvest a garden at the library in July and August.

Children and their caregivers are invited to come learn about gardening as the community partners share books and stories while exploring the process of growing.

As a part of the Library’s summer reading program, “2024: Read, Renew, Repeat,” which focuses on conservation, the Sawyer Free Library encourages participants of all ages to discover the joy and power of reading while developing a sense of environmental consciousness.

The weekly event takes place at the Sawyer Free Library’s raised garden bed on the Middle Street side of the Saunders House (88 Middle Street.)

For questions, visit sawyerfreelibrary.org or call 978-325-5500.

This summer program has been made possible with support from the Constance T. Rhinelander Fund.

~ Hammond Castle Museum

Immerse yourself in the beauty of  Hammond Castle Museum and hone your artistic skills with our upcoming sketch classes with Sue Wheeler of Arts Abound in Magnolia. All skill levels are welcome! This two-hour session includes a 30-minute beginner sketch lesson. All you need to bring is a sketchbook, pencils and an eraser. We encourage you to bring a folding chair and sunscreen as this program is outdoors.

Sue has a lifetime of making art through various mediums from delectable pastries to abstracts in pastels, watercolor, and acrylics. She enjoys using her creative flair in quilting and interior design as well. Sue has studied under numerous artists to learn watercolor, acrylic painting, cold wax & oil, and collage. Her goals for these sketch classes are to engage those who are new to the world of art and reinvigorate those who haven’t picked up a blank canvas or sketch pad in a long time. Sue’s philosophy on the creative process encourages you to be concerned less about the final product and instead to enjoy the journey of creativity and get lost in the moment. Once you find yourself in your work, you may just be surprised!

Attendees who wish to tour Hammond Castle Museum after this class are entitled to a 20% discount on a self-guided tour. Tour tickets may be purchased in the Museum Shop before 3:00 p.m. on the day of this class. Please note: watercolors, pastels, oils, and acrylics are not permitted on the Museum grounds.

Classes are $25 each.
Hammond Castle Museum Member savings apply.

Reserve your spot here!

Summer at Sawyer Free: Abra-kid-abra! Mike Bent’s Eco-Magic Show

~ Sawyer Free Library

As a part of its exciting summer reading program, Read, Renew, Repeat, the Sawyer Free Library is excited to be presenting Magician Mike Bent Eco-Magic Show on Friday, July 19 at 10:00 am.

Children and their families will be wowed by the environmental-themed magic show with magic, comedy and fun! The conservation focused summer reading theme of Read, Renew, Repeat strives to bring attention to our natural world, and caring for the environment as well as the living creatures that call it home. 

This event will be held in the City Hall auditorium, 9 Dale Avenue in Gloucester. No registration is needed.

This summer’s reading program, titled “2024: Read, Renew, Repeat,” offers a diverse and enriching experience for the entire community. By focusing on conservation, the Sawyer Free Library encourages participants of all ages to discover the joy and power of reading while developing a sense of environmental consciousness. Through engaging activities, interactive workshops, reading challenges, and more, participants will learn about the critical role of conservation in maintaining the health and vitality of our planet. For more information on Summer at Sawyer Free Library visit, sawyerfreelibrary.org.

This summer program has been made possible with support from the Constance T. Rhinelander Fund.

Summer at the Sawyer Free Library: Reverse Glass Painting with Pop Up Art School for Teens & Tweens

~ Sawyer Free Library

On Tuesday, July 16 from 4:30 to 6:00 pm Tweens and Teens are invited to unlock their crafty side, learn about the centuries-old art of reverse glass painting and create their own reverse painting with Pop Up Art School at the Sawyer Free Library!

Participants can choose from three images, and paint it using acrylic paint on clear acetate.

Reverse painting techniques have been used since the 16th century. In reverse painting, the details are painted first and then the larger shapes. It’s the reverse order of how one usually paints on paper or canvas where we start with the background, add medium to large shapes and then details. Once the image has been painted, it is viewed from the opposite side through the clear acetate.

Rising 6th graders to graduated 12 graders welcome. Space is limited, please register at SawyerFreeLibrary.org to hold your spot.

“The Irish in the Fort” by Anne Power Parson at Sawyer Free Library  

~ Sawyer Free Library
The Fort and beyond, circa late 1800s. Photo by E.G. Rollins. Collection of the Cape Ann Museum and Archives. 

The Sawyer Free Library is pleased to welcome local author Anne Power Parsons on Thursday, July 18, from 5:30 to 6:30 pm as she presents “The Irish in the Fort,” her contribution to the 400 Stories Project. She will share her family story and research about the vibrant community of Irish fishermen and their families living in the Fort from the mid-1800s to the early 1900s.  The event will occur at the Sawyer Free Library at 21 Main Street in downtown Gloucester.  All are welcome. Registration is requested at sawyerfreelibrary.org.  

Anne Power Parson and her father, Donald Power, circ: 1944

Anne Power Parsons grew up in Gloucester and became intrigued with her Irish family history, thanks partly to a collection of letters written by her father, Donald Maurice Power. In addition to describing their family history, the letters revealed glimpses of the vibrant community of Irish fishermen and their families living in the Fort during this period. 

The event is open and free to attend at the Sawyer Free Library located at 21 Main Street in Gloucester.  For more information, visit sawyerfreelibrary.org or call, 978-325-5500.

To read her contribution to the 400 Stories Project on this subject, click here.

SAWYER FREE LIBRARY WELCOMES TRICIA BALSAN AS NEW CHILDREN’S LIBRARIAN

~ Sawyer Free Library

The Sawyer Free Library is delighted to announce the appointment of Tricia Balsan as Children’s Librarian.

Jenny Benedict, the Library Director, expressed her enthusiasm for Balsan’s appointment, “We are thrilled to welcome Tricia to the Sawyer Free Library. Her expertise in children’s literature and commitment to fostering a love of reading and learning make her an invaluable addition to our talented and dedicated Children’s Services staff. We look forward to the positive impact she will have on our community. Tricia’s approachable and friendly nature surely will be embraced by Gloucester’s young people and their families.”

“I am so excited to join the team here at Sawyer Free Library. Everyone has welcomed me so warmly and has such enthusiasm for what they do. I can already tell how vital a part of the community the library is,” shared Tricia Balsan. “Gloucester clearly loves their library, and it’s such a wonderful feeling! I look forward to getting to know the children and families of Gloucester–both at our temporary location at 21 Main Street, and in our brand-new library building when it opens next year!”

Tricia Balsan, who recently graduated Magna Cum Laude with dual degrees—a Master of Arts in Children’s Literature and a Master of Science in Library Science—from Simmons University, brings a wealth of experience and passion to her new role. She has an impressive background in public libraries, having served in various roles from page to circulation clerk. Balsan’s extensive experience has equipped her with the latest best practices in the library and children’s literature fields, with a special focus on diversity, equity, inclusion, and representation within children’s and young adult literature.

In her most recent position at the Eric Carle Museum in Amherst, MA, Balsan provided library services to children, including leading engaging and interactive story times. Additionally, her experience includes positions at the Oceanside Library, Malverne Public Library, Baldwin Public Library, and Hampshire College Library. Triciai holds a Bachelor of Arts in Cultural Studies from SUNY Empire State College, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude.

The Sawyer Free Library invites the community to come into 21 Main Street and congratulate Tricia on her new role while checking out its exciting summer calendar of fun and free events and programs designed to inspire, educate, and entertain people of all ages.

Sawyer Free Library’s summer operating hours at 21 Main Street are Monday and Wednesday from 8 am to 6 pm, Tuesday from 8 am to 6:15 pm, Thursday from 10 am to 7 pm, Friday from 10 am to 5 pm, and Saturday from 10 am to 1 pm, and 24/7 online at sawyerfreelibrary.org.

For more information about “Summer at the Sawyer Free Library” and to register for programs, visit sawyerfreelibrary.org or call 978-325-5500.

SFL Children’s Services Team: Jessica Laurie, Tricia Balsan and Justine Vitale

The First Gloucester Main Street Block Party of 2024 is this Saturday!

~ Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce

Gloucester’s Summer Block Parties have become a Cape Ann Classic, and the Greater Cape Ann Chamber is excited to be presenting three Block Parties this summer in partnership with the City of Gloucester. The first one will be Saturday, July 13th from 6 PM to 10 PM on Main Street. Party-goers will enjoy fun dining options, live outdoor entertainment and street performers for a family-friendly night on the town. The Block Parties offer local shopping, restaurants, food trucks and non-stop fun!

The following is the schedule of Music & Performers for the July 13th Block Party:

MUSIC:

  • East End Stage (Stage Sponsor: BankGloucester)
    • 6:00-7:30 PM    TheGloucester Student Band
    • 7:30-9:00 PM    The Dogtown Cats
  • Center Stage (Stage Sponsor: Cape Ann Savings Bank)
    • 6:00-8:00 PM      Jim & Tonic (Jazz Band)
    • 8:00-10:00 PM    Bill Gleason
  • West End Stage (Stage Sponsor: Institution for Savings)
    • 6:00-8:00 PM      Carlos Barberi with mediterranean Sounds    
    • 8:00-10:00 PM    Tony Frontiero

STREET PERFORMERS: Intersection of Hancock & Main

  • 6:15-7:00 PM: Tobin Renwick from The Red Trouser Show
  • 7:10-7:45 PM: Cape Ann School of Dance
  • 8:00-8:45 PM: Tobin Renwick from The Red Trouser Show

*Also on the street will be: Face Painting by Miss Wendy, ‘The Balloonitik’ with her fun balloon art for the kids, and a bucket drummer.

FOOD VENDORS

  • 5 Star Phresh Phood
  • Crepe du Jour
  • Kanaka Poke
  • Meat and Sweet Foods
  • Newburyport Crab Cake Co
  • The Lobster Roller Rockport Kitchen
  • Three Gingers Jerky
  • Topsfield Bakeshop Inc.

BUSINESSES

  • A&A Services (sponsor)
  • Attorney Amy L. Connors
  • Cape Ann Olive Oil
  • Castaways Vintage Cafe
  • Edward B Beattie Auctioneers
  • Fireflies Boutique
  • Mari Bergeron Pottery
  • Mark Adrian Shoes
  • Masshole Biscuit Co.
  • Pat D’s Photos
  • Phoenix Nest
  • Pop Gallery
  • Sample This
  • Sea Coastal Arts
  • Shore Nutrition
  • Sweats of New England
  • That’s The Tea Boutique
  • The Bookstore of Gloucester
  • The Cut
  • The Willow Witch
  • Village Silversmith

NON-PROFITS

  • Action Inc.
  • Adam Needs Beads
  • Calvary Chapel Baptist Church
  • Cape Ann Pride
  • Cape Ann Vernal Pond Team
  • City of Gloucester-MA Save Energy
  • Community Church of East Gloucester
  • Essex County Habitat for Humanity
  • FOSTER MA
  • Gloucester Education Foundation
  • Gloucester High School DECA
  • Gloucester Marine Genomics Institute
  • Gloucester Stage Company
  • Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce
  • Housing4All Gloucester
  • Local Colors Artists’ Cooperative
  • Lupis Foundation of America
  • North Shore Arts Association
  • North Shore Bible Church
  • North Shore Health Project
  • Rocky Neck Art Colony
  • Schooner Adventure
  • Seaside Sustainability, Inc.
  • Spaulding Outpatient Center Cape Ann
  • St John’s Episcopal Church
  • Town Green Inc.

The Chamber wishes to acknowledge and thank the City of Gloucester, Supporting Partner, many business sponsors, and main street merchants for their support in helping to make this year’s Block Parties possible. A listing of the sponsors is provided below:

  • Stage Sponsors:  BankGloucester; Cape Ann Savings Bank; Institution for Savings
  • Gold Sponsors:  Addison Gilbert Hospital; Applied Materials; Beauport Hospitality; The Building Center; and Endicott College
  • Silver Sponsors:  A&A Services, Cape Ann YMCA, Chase Bank, and Ebenezer Tax and Services

The Second Block Party will be on Saturday, August 10th. The Third Block Party will be on Friday, August 30th. 

Additional information may be found on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/gloucesterblockparty.

Unlocking Your Musical Journey: A Songwriting Workshop with Briana Cash on Thursday, July 11

~ Sawyer Free Library

Free workshop for adults and teens at Sawyer Free Library

Unlock the secrets of songwriting with award-winning singer/songwriter Briana Cash in this engaging workshop tailored for adults and teens of all skill levels. Join the Sawyer Free Library on Thursday, July 11 from 5:00 to 6:30 pm at 21 Main Street for an inspiring session where Briana will share her expertise and guide participants on a journey to discover their unique voice as songwriters. No registration required.

Workshop Overview:

Crafting Your Musical Vision: Discover the essence of songwriting and learn how to approach the creative process with confidence and inspiration.

Exploring Your Artistic Identity: Dive deep into what songwriting means to you and uncover your personal songwriting goals with expert guidance from Briana.

Interactive Learning: Engage in lively discussions and a dynamic Q&A session, where Briana will share her insights and answer your burning questions about songwriting and the music industry.

Live Song Sharing: If you’re working on a song, seize the opportunity to share it with the group live. However, participation is optional, and all attendees are welcome, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced songwriter.

Briana Cash is not only an award-winning singer/songwriter but also a respected freelance music supervisor and a distinguished member of the Recording Academy and The Guild of Music Supervisors. Her exceptional talent has led to her songs being covered by various artists and featured in TV shows, films, and advertisements.

No registration required for this program. If you have questions please call 978-325-5500 or contact anakoneczny@sawyerfreelibrary.org.

Summer is a busy summer for tweens and teens at the Sawyer Free Library. Middle and high schoolers are encouraged to check out the Library’s full summer schedule of weekly programs, including Reverse Glass Painting with Pop-Up Art School on July 16. There will be two Dungeons and Dragons meet-ups on July 23 and August 7, an Ice Cream Float Party on July 25, Henna Temporary Tattoos for Teens and Tweens on Thursday, August 1, and a Teen Board Game Night on August 7.

Students entering grades 6-12 can also track their “Summer Reading and eco-friendly actions” on the Library’s Summer Reading Bingo Board for Teens and Tweens, which is available on the Library’s website. They can also earn raffle tickets for every book they read to qualify for cool prizes, including an Instax Mini 9 Instant Camera.

For more information on all this and more visit sawyerfreelibrary.org or stop by 21 Main Street in Downtown Gloucester!

Tech Tuesday at SFL: Scam Awareness

~ Sawyer Free Library

Join the Sawyer Free Library on Tuesday, July 9 at 2pm to learn about SCAM AWARENESS.

For this Tech Tuesday at Sawyer Free learn how to spot common scams, whether they’re through email, text or phone. Learn what to do and what NOT to do if you are scammed! 

SFL’s Tech Tuesday Monthly Workshops take place at 21 Main Street. Registration required at sawyerfreelibrary.org. For more information or if you have questions call 978-325-5500.