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6th District race
The race to fill Congressman Seth Moulton’s seat in the 6th District (Moulton is running for U.S. Senate) is getting more crowded. Salem veterinarian Mariah Lancaster announced a candidacy last week. Lancaster, a Democrat, has experience working at the State Department and as a congressional aide. Lancaster joins six other candidates vying for Moulton’s seat.
Firefighters graduate
Firefighters Jeremy Gillis and Kyle Pettinelli have graduated from the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy’s Career Recruit Firefighting Training Program in Springfield. In the 50-day, intensive training program, Gillis and Pettinelli met the rigorous national standards required to serve as career firefighters in the state.
“Firefighters Gillis and Pettinelli have demonstrated dedication, discipline and professionalism throughout this demanding training,” said Gilliland. “Their successful completion of the academy reflects their commitment to public service and strengthens the Marblehead Fire Department’s ability to protect our community.”
During the 10-week program, firefighters received comprehensive classroom instruction and hands-on training in essential firefighting skills, including life safety, search and rescue, ladder operations, water supply, pump operations and fire attack under live-fire conditions. Graduates also trained in hazardous materials response, modern fire behavior, stress management and self-rescue techniques.
Upon graduation, Gillis and Pettinelli achieved Firefighter I/II certification and Hazardous Materials First Responder Operations certification through the Massachusetts Fire Training Council, which is accredited by the National Board on Fire Service Professional Qualifications.
Name that boat
The Harbors and Waters Board is forming a small committee to help name the harbormaster’s new patrol boat. The boat, funded by a grant, has full firefighter capabilities and a communications center, according to Harbormaster Mark Souza.
The board “felt it was fair to allow some public comment of the name to be discussed to make sure they are allowing the decision on the name to be heard,” Souza told the Current. “I will say that the board feels the name should stay as the Stacey Clark.”
Stacey H. Clark, for whom the boat is named, served as the town’s harbormaster in the first half of the 20th century.
Time running out to submit citizens petitions
Residents can submit citizens petitions for the annual Town Meeting warrant until Friday, Jan. 23, at noon. Town officials have until Friday, Jan. 30, at noon, to submit articles.
To submit a citizen petition, pick up a form at the Town Clerk’s Office at Abbot Hall and collect a minimum of 10 registered voter signatures. The clerk will then verify the signatures.
Just ducky
Marblehead retailer Wicked Ducks won the Rookie of the Year award at Boston’s Snowport.
“It was an amazing experience!” Wicked Ducks co-owner Mandy Lobraico emailed to the Current. “We are so grateful for the opportunity to meet talented artists, make friends from around the world, connect our Wicked Ducks Foundation with businesses and other nonprofit organizations, and sell thousands of rubber ducks!”
Wicked Ducks is located at 27 Atlantic Ave.
Facilities stickers
Facility stickers for access to the Transfer Station and Devereux Beach residential parking lot are now available here: marbleheadma.gov/resident-facility-sticker/.
— Cost is $100 for the primary permit.
— $40 for additional household permits.
— Vehicles must be registered to the same address.
— Credit cards only.
— Proof of residency/vehicle registration required.
Veterans qualify for one free sticker with proof of past service, current registration and utility bill. The facility stickers will be valid Jan. 1-Dec. 31, 2026.
Freelance writing opportunities
The Marblehead Current has periodic, paid opportunities on an as-needed basis for freelance journalists, particularly those with an interest and/or experience covering municipal meetings and government affairs.
To learn more, email editor Leigh Blander at lblander@marbleheadnews.org.
BLOOM for mental health
The town of Marblehead is partnering with BLOOM, which offers free, confidential and personalized support for the following:
- Mental health therapy, psychiatry and substance use
- Parenting and eldercare
- Personal well-being
“With BLOOM, you get fast, easy access to expert care — saving you time, money, and stress. From coaching and therapy to live events and on-demand resources, support is available anytime you need it,” according to a town press release.
To activate your account, visit marbleheadma.gov.
