Cape Ann Conversations

This episode is sponsored by the Cape Ann YMCA, Gloucester MA

The YMCA of the North Shore's ONEDOOR initiative—“A Path to Mental Wellness”—is a growing, inclusive program designed to strengthen mental health across the North Shore. It encompasses free weekly group walks called Walk Talk Collective, in partnership with The HelpHUB, offering a safe space to move, connect, and share mental health experiences approachable to anyone in the community.

Led by Ranjeev Benjamin, Executive Director of Mental Wellness, the Y collaborates with clinician partners like McLean Hospital and Cartwheel to streamline connections to mental health professionals and integrate mental wellness into all Y programming. Beyond organized wellness groups, the Y fosters a strong community atmosphere where physical activity, regular programming, and flexible membership are designed to promote emotional resilience and belonging.

The City of Gloucester Health Department, through its Substance Use Prevention & Mental Health Promotion team, offers multi-community support aimed at preventing mental health and substance use challenges among youth and families. Headed by Chelsea Goldstein-Walsh, Regional Prevention Director, the local Prevention Team leads coalitions and programs designed to create substance-free, supportive environments for teens and young adults.

Together, these resources create a strong foundation for mental wellness in on the North Shore and Cape Ann.

Crisis and service hotlines:

• 988 Lifeline for free 24/7 crisis support (call or text)
• Massachusetts Behavioral Health Helpline (833 773 2445) to locate clinicians
• Mobile Crisis Intervention services for urgent, on site assessments by calling 877-382-1609 entering your ZIP code

Contact:

https://www.northshoreymca.org/mental-wellness-initiative

Presented by: Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce, https://capeannchamber.com

Production Partner: Streamography, https://streamography.com

Chorus North Shore is a vibrant, non-auditioned community choir based on Massachusetts’ North Shore, with roots tracing back to a Depression-era gathering in Rockport in 1931. Now drawing around 125 voices, the ensemble specializes in challenging classical and modern choral masterworks—performing landmark pieces such as Bach’s Magnificat, Handel’s Messiah, Mozart’s masses, Verdi’s Requiem, and Stravinsky’s Symphony of Psalms. Their robust offerings include two major concerts annually, featuring paid soloists and live orchestral accompaniment, and they sustain a strong educational mission through initiatives like the now-retired Chorus North Shore Honors Youth Choir and scholarships for aspiring young singers.

Abby Frost has served as Artistic Director for the past three years (since taking up the mantle from Sonja Dahlgren Pryor), bringing fresh energy and depth to the group’s programming. A seasoned choral conductor, vocal coach, and director, Frost leads with academic and professional pedigree—she is the Director of Choirs at Ipswich High School and holds a Master’s in Choral Conducting from the University of Arizona. Board & Chorus Member Eli Eberhardt is both a singer and an instrumentalist.

Connect with Chorus North Shore:

https://www.chorusnorthshore.org/

https://www.facebook.com/chorusnorthshore.org

https://www.instagram.com/chorusnorthshore/

Presented by: Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce, https://capeannchamber.com

Production Partner: Streamography, https://streamography.com

Colleen Murdock, Director of Community Relations, chats with host Troy Scarbrough about the current happenings at the Chamber, upcoming events, and other points of interest.

Facebook: https://⁠facebook.com/capeannchamberInstagram: ⁠https://instagram.com/capeannchamber⁠Website: ⁠https://capeannchamber.com⁠

Presented by: Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce, ⁠https://capeannchamber.com⁠

Production Partner: Streamography, ⁠https://streamography.com

Campbell Funeral Home has been a trusted part of the North Shore community for over a century, serving families from Beverly, Gloucester, and Ipswich with compassion, dignity, and professionalism. The Campbell family has upheld a proud tradition of care, now managed by fifth-generation funeral director Lauren Campbell Mulligan. With deep roots in the region, the funeral home has expanded to include three locations, each reflecting the family's enduring commitment to honoring life with dignity and respect. Their Beverly location remains one of the oldest continuously operated funeral homes in Massachusetts, a testament to their legacy of service.

In addition to traditional funeral and memorial services, Campbell Funeral Home is a leader in pre-planning. They offer personalized, confidential consultations that help individuals and families make thoughtful decisions in advance—relieving loved ones of future burdens and ensuring every detail is handled according to one's wishes. Their experienced team provides guidance on all aspects of pre-arrangement, from selecting service options to financial planning, allowing for peace of mind and a more meaningful celebration of life. With a blend of historical depth and forward-thinking care, Campbell Funeral Home continues to serve the North Shore with compassion and integrity.

Contact:

https://www.campbellfuneral.com

https://www.facebook.com/campbellfuneral

Presented by: Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce, https://capeannchamber.com

Production Partner: Streamography, https://streamography.com

The Schooner Adventure is a stunning 122-foot wooden ship and a proud symbol of Gloucester’s fishing legacy. Designed by Thomas McManus and launched in 1926, she was once one of the fastest and most successful fishing schooners to sail the Grand Banks. After retiring from the sea as a working vessel, she became a beloved windjammer before being beautifully restored to her former glory.

Today, Adventure is more than just a historic ship—she’s a floating classroom and community icon. Operated by Gloucester Adventure, Inc., she offers hands-on education, public sails, and unforgettable experiences that connect people to Cape Ann’s vibrant maritime past. Whether you’re on deck for a sunset sail or learning the ropes with students, the Adventure continues to inspire new generations.

Declared a National Historic Landmark in 1994, Schooner Adventure was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1989 and recognized as an official project of Save America’s Treasures. 2026 marks the 100th anniversary of the Schooner Adventure, so stay tuned for lots of special events next year!

Connect with Schooner Adventure

https://schooneradventure.org

https://www.facebook.com/SailSchooner

https://www.instagram.com/schooneradventure

https://www.youtube.com/user/TheSchoonerAdventure

Presented by: Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce, https://capeannchamber.com

Production Partner: Streamography, https://streamography.com

Just months after Courtney and Marshall Tulley opened the doors to their new boutique hotel, Addison Choate, the pandemic brought travel — and the hospitality industry — to an unexpected halt. But instead of standing still, the couple chose to pivot, channeling their entrepreneurial spirit into what they like to call a 'hospitality-adjacent' venture. The result is Denim Blanket Co., a collection of beautifully crafted, high-end blankets made right here in the USA, using materials sourced from American companies. A creative leap that turned a challenging moment into a cozy new success story.

Tucked into the heart of Rockport, MA, Denim Blanket Company is where coastal charm meets sustainable style! This vibrant shop boasts a delightful lineup of handcrafted blankets, with denim on one side and fleece on the other, in a variety of colors and styles. What makes Denim Blanket Company truly sparkle is its dedication to supporting local and regional artisans and sustainability. Beyond blankets, their shelves brim with treasures from American-made partners—from nautical-inspired jewelry to hand-sewn dog collars to whimsical throw pillows, and more.

Denim Blanket Company is where coastal charm meets sustainable style! Whether you're cruising their colorful blanket racks, choosing a custom patch, or accessorizing with eco-conscious flair, the energy is infectious. Visit Denim Blanket Co. and you’ll leave not only with hand-crafted comfort but also a little piece of Rockport’s soul—made with care, creativity, and pride.

Connect with Denim Blanket Company

https://denimblankets.com

https://www.facebook.com/DenimBlankets

https://www.instagram.com/denimblanketco

Presented by: Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce, https://capeannchamber.com

Production Partner: Streamography, https://streamography.com

Located in Whistlestop Mall in Rockport, Moving and Shaking on the North Shore is your friendly neighborhood expert in senior move management and home organizing. Founded by Ellen Fusco, whose dedication to assisting families blossomed from a deeply personal experience for her parents, this service thrives on empathy, expertise, and a creative touch. Whether it’s helping a loved one downsize, packing up treasured belongings, or unpacking and organizing in a cozy new nest, Ellen and her team can help. With a goal to avoid anything being thrown away, Ellen finds new homes for items through donation, sale, or imaginative repurposing.

Moving and Shaking is less about hauling boxes and more about curating transitions. Their offerings span senior downsizing, relocation, donating/repurposing support, and moving consulting to ensure everything unfolds with ease and organization. In short, when life’s about to shake things up, this team gently guides the North Shore’s seniors through the move—and makes sure everyone involved can actually enjoy the ride.

Contact

https://mandsnorthshore.com

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563772042934

https://www.instagram.com/movingandshaking_northshore

Presented by: Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce, https://capeannchamber.com

Production Partner: Streamography, https://streamography.com

Annie De Castro Design Group (ADDG) is a Boston-based boutique interior design firm renowned for creating bespoke living spaces that seamlessly blend comfort, functionality, and style. Led by founder and design principal Annie de Castro, the firm specializes in tailored design solutions that enhance the quality of life for its clients.

Annie's diverse background in furniture retail, product development, and visual merchandising, combined with her global experience, informs her unique design perspective. Annie's journey of starting an interior design business began during the pandemic, which allowed her the time to renovate her new home in Gloucester.

Whether you're looking to renovate a historic brownstone or refresh a modern condo, Annie De Castro Design Group brings a personalized and culturally inspired approach to every project, transforming spaces into reflections of the people who inhabit them.

Connect at:

https://www.addgboston.com

https://www.instagram.com/addgboston_interiors

Presented by: Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce, https://capeannchamber.com

Production Partner: Streamography, https://streamography.com

Atlantic Vacation Homes (AVH) is a premier vacation rental and real estate company based in Gloucester, Massachusetts, serving the Cape Ann region and Boston’s North Shore. With over 40 years of experience, AVH offers a diverse portfolio of properties, including beachfront homes, pet-friendly rentals, and accommodations suitable for large groups. The company also provides year-round and winter rentals, as well as residential sales services.

Jonathan Fonvielle serves as the Business Development Director at Atlantic Vacation Homes. Jonathan focuses on curating the right properties and fostering strong relationships with homeowners to enhance the company's vacation rental offerings. He emphasizes the importance of aligning with homeowners who share AVH's commitment to quality and guest satisfaction. He also emphasizes their relationship with the renters, knowing what they want in a vacation rental, and making the best match in a property.

As a family-run business started by Jonathan’s mother, Carole Sharoff, Atlantic Vacation Homes benefits from Fonvielle's dedication to maintaining high standards in property selection and guest experiences, contributing to the company's reputation as a trusted provider of vacation rentals in the region.

https://www.atlanticvacationhomes.com/

https://www.facebook.com/atlanticvacationhomes

https://www.instagram.com/atlanticvacationhomes/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/atlantic-vacation-homes

Presented by: Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce,https://capeannchamber.com

Production Partner: Streamography, https://streamography.com

#gloucesterma #capeann #capeannma #shorttermrenatl #seasonalrental

Need a second set of eyes on your writing? SML Proofreading, founded by the eagle-eyed Sue Lovett in Gloucester, is your secret weapon forspotless copy. Since 2019, Sue has been fixing everything from tangled sentences to pesky punctuation. With a passion for precision and a knack for storytelling, Sue tackles everything from young adult fantasy and memoirs tolocal history books, newsletters, brochures, menus, and more. Her clients range from indie authors to small publishers, and she’s known for preserving each writer’s unique voice while smoothing out the bumps. She even wrote the book on proofreading—literally! Proof or Consequences! is her clever guide to commonwriting blunders, packed with practical tips and a healthy dose of humor, proving that editing doesn’t have to be boring. If you're looking to make your writing shine, Sue's your go-to editor on Cape Ann.

https://smlproofreading.com/https://www.facebook.com/SMLProofreading/https://www.instagram.com/smlproofreading/

Presented by: Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce, https://capeannchamber.com

Production Partner: Streamography, https://streamography.com