Month: February 2025

Join Us on Saturday Night for a Venetian-Themed Masquerade!

~ Hammond Castle Museum

Join us this Saturday night for an extraordinary evening of exquisite cuisine by Missy Sallah of Glouester’s Sugar Magnolias, an open bar with beer, wine, prosecco & a signature cocktail. We’ll have dazzling live entertainment, including a fire spinner, a ballerina on pointe, a contortionist & more by Cape Ann’s Seaside Circus! We’ll also feature a string quartet by the Firebird Pops Orchestra and a DJ for dancing!

Only masks are required – costumes are optional. No mask? No problem; we’ll have some available for purchase in the Museum Shop.

Tickets are almost sold out. Don’t miss your chance to attend this enchanting Masquerade!

Reserve your spot at the party at: https://bit.ly/BallofDreams25.

Cozy Up with Knitting & Crochet for Teens & Tweens on Monday, Feb 24

~ Sawyer Free Library

When: Monday, February 24, 4:00–5:30 PM Where: Sawyer Free Library

Beat the winter chill by creating something soft and huggable! Whether you’re new to knitting and crochet or an experienced crafter, the Sawyer Free Library wants to invite local teens and tweens (students in grades 6-12, ages 11 -19) join Young Adult Librarian Annalise for a relaxing afternoon of learning basic stitches and exploring fun project ideas. The repetitive nature of these crafts is known to reduce stress—so come unwind, try something new, and leave with a skill you can enjoy all year long.

   •   Materials Provided: Yarn, knitting needles, and crochet hooks

   •   Feel Free to Bring: Your own yarn, needles, hooks, or work-in-progress

   •   Questions? Email Annalise at anakoneczny@sawyerfreelibrary.org

Registration required at SawyerFreeLibrary.org. We can’t wait to see what you’ll create!

Sawyer Free Library Presents “Nature’s Voices” A Three-Part Literary Arts En Plein Air Writing Series 

~ Sawyer Free Library

Award winning local author JoeAnn Hart to kick off series on Saturday, Feb 23

The Sawyer Free Library, in collaboration with Gloucester’s Writing Center, is thrilled to announce “Nature’s Voices,” a three-part writing workshop that invites participants to step away from everyday demands and reconnect with the natural world. Much like the French Impressionists who painted en plein air, the program invites participants to venture outside to observe shifting light, gentle breezes, and the soothing sounds of nature—only this time, capturing the scene on the page.

Led by professional writers, each session begins with a 30-minute guided walk to gather impressions and inspiration, followed by 90 minutes of writing indoors. Whether you’re a seasoned creator or new to writing, these sessions promise fresh perspectives, a deeper connection to nature, and invigorating creative exercises.

All sessions are free (ages 18+), rain or shine, and registration is required for each at sawyerfreelibrary.org. Dress for comfort and the elements, and bring your own rain gear if needed. Pens, notebooks, and an open mind are encouraged!

WORKSHOP 1:  It Was a Dark & Stormy Night: The Natural World in Fiction with JoeAnn Hart

Sunday, February 23 | 2:00–4:00 PM at Gloucester Writers Center, 126 East Main Street, Gloucester

Award-winning local author JoeAnn Hart will guide participants in exploring how nature’s drama can add depth and tension to fiction. JoeAnn’s acclaimed works—such as her recently released novel Arroyo Circle (Green Writers Press), prize-winning environmental fiction collection Highwire Act & Other Tales of Survival, the crime memoir Stamford ’76: A True Story of Murder, Corruption, Race, and Feminism in the 1970s, as well as Float, a dark comedy about plastics, and Addled, a social satire. Widely published, her short fiction and essays have appeared in Slate.com, Orion, The Hopper, Prairie Schooner, Terrain.org, and many others. Her work explores the relationship between humans, their environments, and the more-than-human world. REGISTER HERE

WORKSHOP 2: Rocks, Trees, and Me: Exploring the Self through Ecopoetry with Rachel Dillon

Saturday, March 1 | 1:00–3:00 PM at Lanesville Community Center, 8 Vulcan Street, Gloucester

Local writer Rachel Dillon, Managing Editor of Ploughshares and author of a chapbook on Gloucester’s Dogtown, will lead this hands-on workshop focused on ecopoetry. Drawing on poets from Dante Alighieri to Emily Dickinson to Donika Kelly, participants will engage with the landscape to discover new ways of expressing their personal and environmental connections. REGISTER HERE

WORKSHOP 3: Immersion, Observation, Reflection: Communicating Sense of Place through Essay

Saturday, April 5 | 2:00–4:00 PM at Gloucester Writers Center, 126 East Main Street, Gloucester

Photographer and essayist Mark Thayer offers a final session on crafting essays that illuminate the natural world. Through immersive observation and reflection, participants will learn to convey a vivid sense of place and personal insight into the environment around them. REGISTER HERE

For more information or to register for any of these workshops, please visit the Sawyer Free Library in person or online at sawyerfreelibrary.org, or contact Meg O’Neill at 978-325-5562 or moneill@sawyerfreelibrary.org.  

Join the Sawyer Free Library and the Gloucester Racial Justice Team for a Special Black History Month Event

~ Sawyer Free Library

View and Review: Watching and Discussing a Virtual Author Talk with Lee Hawkins

When: Thursday, February 20, 5:00 to 6:30 PM Where: Sawyer Free Library, 21 Main Street

Celebrate Black History Month by viewing a recently recorded conversation with journalist and author Lee Hawkins, whose memoir—I Am Nobody’s Slave: How Uncovering My Family’s History Set Me Free—examines his family’s post-enslavement legacy of trauma and resilience. Through genealogical research, Hawkins reveals how personal stories can foster understanding and healing for all Americans.

After the 60-minute screening, we’ll hold a 30-minute discussion to share key takeaways and reflections. Light refreshments will be provided. This program will be facilitated by Rosary Lalik, a member of the Gloucester Racial Justice Team, and Meg O’Neill, Community Librarian at the Sawyer Free Library.

Don’t miss this powerful opportunity to learn, reflect, and connect with others in our community. We hope to see you there! Registration is required at SawyerFreeLibrary.org. For questions, email: moneill@sawyerfreelibrary.org or 978-325-5500.

Economic Outlook Breakfast: Critical Role of Downtown Economic Vitality

~ Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce
Download Flyer

Please join the Greater Cape Ann Chamber on Thursday, March 6 from 7:30 – 9 AM at the Magnolia Library & Community Center for our 2025 Economic Outlook Breakfast.

This year’s Economic Outlook Breakfast features expert panelists exploring the critical role of Downtown Economic Vitality and how it drives our local economy. The conversation will explore how a thriving business district can fuel economic growth and the importance of strategic planning to balance economic development with the growing need for affordable housing. We will explore strategies for how local businesses and municipalities can collaborate to drive positive change. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and connect with local leaders committed to a prosperous future for Greater Cape Ann.

Panelists Include:
Emmy Hahn – Program Coordinator of the Massachusetts Downtown Initiative
Clark Ziegler –  Executive Director of the Massachusetts Housing Partnership

Facilitator:
Representative Kristin Kassner – MA House of Representatives, 2nd Essex District

For tickets, visit https://bit.ly/EconomicOutlookBreakfast.

The cost is $20 for Chamber members and $30 for non-members.

Schedule:

  • 7:30 AM: Breakfast
  • 8:00 AM: Panel Discussion
  • 8:40 AM: Q & A

Speaker Bios

Emmy Hahn: As the Massachusetts Downtown Initiative Program Coordinator for the Executive Office Economic Development, Emmy Hahn is the state resource for technical assistance relating to all aspects of downtown/town center/commercial area revitalization. In addition to administrating the MDI Emmy is also the point of contact for communities interested in implementing a Business Improvement District and Parking Benefit District. In 2021, Emmy was also the Program Coordinator for the IDA Pinnacle award winning Local Rapid Recovery Program. The program was responsible for implementing $10 million worth of technical assistance of CARES funds in response to COVID-19. Recently Emmy was asked to oversee the MA Vacant Storefront Program and assisted with the redesign of the program.

Prior to working at DHCD, Emmy was the Project Manager for the Main Street Program in Lynn, MA and was the Executive Director of Downtown New Bedford, Inc. in New Bedford, MA.

Clark Ziegler: Clark Ziegler is Executive Director of the Massachusetts Housing Partnership, a public agency that finances affordable rental housing and home ownership, provides community technical assistance, and helps shape state housing policy. Under his leadership since 1990 MHP has delivered more than $7 billion in below-market financing for more than 58,000 housing units.
Mr. Ziegler chairs the nonprofit Housing Partnership Fund, which is a national, federally-certified community development financial institution and an affiliate of the Housing Partnership Network. He also serves on the board of the Massachusetts Community Economic Development Assistance Corporation (CEDAC). He previously served on the MBTA’s management team and spent six years in Washington where he was legislative assistant and chief of staff to Massachusetts Congressman Robert Drinan. Mr. Ziegler is a longtime Ipswich resident and served as chair and as a 15-year member of the town’s Finance Committee.

Representative Kristin Kassner: Kristin Kassner is the State Rep for the 2nd Essex District – Ipswich, Hamilton, Rowley, Newbury, Georgetown, and Topsfield precinct 1. She lives in Hamilton with her husband and son. As a planning professional with 20 years of local government experience, she has dedicated her career to improving the quality of life for people and their environments in her district and the Commonwealth.

Rep. Kassner has a BA in Urban Planning and Geography from Miami University of Ohio; a Master’s degree in Urban & Environmental Policy from Tufts University, and completed the Supervisory Leadership Development Program from the University of Massachusetts. She was the Planning Director for the Town of Burlington, served as President of the Massachusetts Chapter of the American Planning Association and as Vice-Chair of the Hamilton Master Plan Committee. She is a member of the Associated Institute of Certified Planners, The Trustees, Massachusetts Audubon Society, Essex County Greenbelt, and Essex County Trails Association (ECTA).

SeniorCare presents The SAVVY Caregiver Workshop at Cape Ann YMCA

~ trixy546

SeniorCare will hold “The SAVVY Caregiver,” a free 6-week workshop for caregivers of memory-impaired recipients, which meets weekly and will help caregivers understand the impact of dementia, learn skills to manage daily life and communicate more effectively, and take care of themselves. To register, contact Abby Considine at 978-281-1750, ext. 581.

Taking care of a person living with Alzheimer’s or related dementia is specialized work. To do this work successfully, caregivers need special skills, knowledge, and a positive attitude that helps them care for themselves.

Savvy Caregiver Training will help you:

  • Understand the impact of dementia on both you and the person you are caring for.
  • Learn the skills you need to manage daily life.
  • Take control and set goals.
  • Communicate more effectively.
  • Strengthen family resources.
  • Feel better about your caregiving.
  • Take care of you!

This workshop will take place on Fridays, February 28-April 18, 2025, at the Cape Ann YMCA. Participants should plan to attend all six sessions of the workshop. (The group will not meet on March 7 or April 4.)

For information and to register, call Abby Considine at 978-281-1750 x-581.

Sawyer Free Library Receives $50,000 Grant from Essex County Community Foundation to Launch Digital Learning Lab and Inaugural Computer Basics Course

~ Sawyer Free Library

The Sawyer Free Library is pleased to announce that it has received a $50,000 Digital Equity Initiative Partnership Grant from the Essex County Community Foundation (ECCF). The grant will support the launch of the Library’s 2025 Digital Learning Lab—Gloucester’s first educational space dedicated to inclusive digital learning—and the Library’s inaugural Computer Basics Course, which will provide 15 hours of hands-on technology training. In addition, qualified participants will receive a free device and a one-year Internet service plan.

The Sawyer Free Library is one of 13 grantees to receive a 2025 ECCF Digital Partnership Grant. These grants, which total $627,000 and encourage cross-sector collaborations, are part of Advancing Digital Equity, ECCF’s multi-year, $3 million commitment to empower all Essex County residents with the access, education and equipment necessary to successfully navigate today’s increasingly digital world.

In total, this group of grants represents more than 60 local community partnerships and will positively impact residents from 26 Essex County communities. The Library’s $50,000 ECCF grant is allocated as follows: $18,520 for furnishings and audiovisual teaching equipment for the Digital Learning Lab, and $32,480 for program expenses associated with the Computer Basics Course.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Essex County Community Foundation for this generous support,” said Jenny Benedict, Sawyer Free Library Director. “By helping us establish the Digital Learning Lab and our first- ever Computer Basics Course, ECCF has demonstrated its commitment to ensuring equitable access to technology for all Gloucester residents. This partnership will transform how our greater community learns, connects, and grows in a digital world.”

The Digital Learning Lab, slated to open early this Fall as part of the Sawyer Free Library’s major renovation and expansion, will be an 800-square-foot publicly accessible space on the Library’s ground floor. Furnished with an interactive teaching display, Chromebooks, and classroom seating for 20 participants, the Lab is designed to address critical barriers to digital equity, such as broadband access, device access, and digital literacy.

Beginning in September 2025, the Computer Basics Course will introduce up to 50 participants—divided into four cohorts—to fundamental digital skills, including basic computer operations, productivity software, online safety, and communication tools such as email and video conferencing. Upon completion of the 15- hour training and demonstration of proficiency, participants will receive a free Chromebook and one year of Internet service.

The course is open to anyone who qualifies by demonstrating need or by identifying an educational, workforce, or personal well-being goal. Community partners such as Open Door, Action Inc., the Senior Center, and Wellspring House will refer participants, helping ensure the project’s success. Additionally, the Council on Aging/Rose Baker Senior Center, Gloucester Housing Authority, and the Gloucester Health Department will play a vital role in reaching those who benefit from the program and ensuring they remain engaged.

This initiative also includes valuable professional development for local high school and college student interns, who will help deliver the program through small-group tutoring and one-on-one support. Internships will be promoted in partnership with Gloucester Public Schools, leveraging channels such as the student newspaper, The Gillnetter.

UMass Lowell, which has played a crucial role in advancing digital equity throughout the region, will support the Library’s new educational program by providing additional funding for computer. The university is also embarking on a new college student intern program and anticipates a placement at Sawyer Free Library for the delivery and evaluation phases of the Computer Basics Course. The intern will assist with instructional activities, assessment tools, program promotion, and participant recruitment.

The Sawyer Free Library is a leader in advancing digital equity in Gloucester through partnerships, programs, and initiatives that foster a sense of belonging, community building, and continuous learning. Currently operating from its temporary location at 21 Main Street and online at sawyerfreelibrary.org, the Library looks forward to its grand reopening later this year. The renovated, expanded, and modernized space will bolster the Library’s central role in delivering innovative resources and opportunities to Gloucester’s diverse community.

To learn more about Advancing Digital Equity, please visit eccf.org/digital-equity/.

~ Hammond Castle Museum

2:00 – 2:30 Refreshments
2:30 – 3:30 Presentation
3:30 – 3:45 Q&A /Program Conclusion

Join us for a captivating afternoon as we celebrate the artistry and innovation of John Hays Hammond Jr.’s extraordinary pipe organ. As the third-largest pipe organ in a private residence in the U.S., this 8,000+ pipe marvel is a masterpiece of engineering and music. This special presentation will be led by Peter Kennett, Vice President, Board of Directors at Hammond Castle Museum and Organ Restoration Team Lead, and John Roper, Deputy Team Lead and the Plenum Organ Company. Together, they will guide you through the rich history of this iconic instrument.

Discover the fascinating origins and history of the pipe organ, tracing its journey through John Hays Hammond Jr.’s two Gloucester residences. Learn about the innovative contributions of Hammond and other renowned organ designers and tonal experts, each bringing their unique vision to the instrument’s evolution. Peter Kennett and John Roper will explore the intricate details of the organ’s older components, sourced by Hammond from various locations, and share the story of the significant additions and changes made over the years.

Admission: $15. Hammond Castle Museum Member savings apply.
Proceeds from this program will support the ongoing restoration efforts at the Museum.

RESERVE YOUR SEATS HERE!

Design Your Destiny: A Vision Board Workshop on Feb 13

~ Sawyer Free Library

Join the Sawyer Free Library on Thursday, February 13 from 5:30 to 6:30 pm for an inspiring Vision Board Workshop, where we’ll dive into the power of visualization and goal-setting to create a meaningful path toward your dreams. Led by local wellness coach Marcy Plante, this workshop will be an interactive and creative session designed to help you clarify your intentions, map out your goals, and bring your aspirations to life. Through guided exercises, reflection, and collage-making, you’ll construct a personalized vision board filled with images, words, and symbols that resonate with your true desires. 

This is more than just a craft—it’s an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, tap into your potential, and set the course for the life you want to live. Whether you’re seeking personal growth, career development, or wellness transformations, this Vision Board Workshop offers the tools and support to help you visualize, believe, and achieve.  

Registration required at SawyerFreeLibrary.org. Space is limited.  If you have questions email ryan@noblenet.org or call 978-325-5500. 

Marcy Plante, is a dedicated individual driven by over 50 years of diverse experiences. Throughout her journey, she’s served as a coach in softball and field hockey, led in the wellness industry, and contributed as an educator. With a master’s in education, she’s continually pursued growth and learning.

For 17 years, she successfully managed a health club, guiding numerous individuals to achieve their fitness objectives. Her motivation stems from a commitment to personal excellence and a desire to positively impact others. She is currently the owner and founder of Cape Ann Compass, Life and Health Coaching. 

Her passion lies in helping individuals uncover their potential and embrace life with enthusiasm.

Fancypants Friday: Cheese, Cookies, and Collaging for Teens and Tweens

~ Sawyer Free Library

Teens and tweens, start your weekend off with a fancy flair! Join the Sawyer Free Library on Friday, February 7 from 3:00 to 4:15 pm for an afternoon of collage-making and cheese and cookie pairings from The Cave.

All materials will be provided. No registration is required, so stop by with a friend. Grades 6-12 (ages 11-19) welcome. Questions? Email Annalise at anakoneczny@sawyerfreelibrary.org.