The town of Marblehead is set to mark its fourth annual International Holocaust Remembrance Day on Friday, January 30, at Abbot Hall. This observance begins at noon and is supported by a proclamation from the Select Board, which also recognizes January as Holocaust Remembrance Month.
Background of Holocaust Remembrance Day
In 2005, the United Nations officially designated January 27 as Holocaust Remembrance Day. This day honors the memory of the over six million Jews, along with millions of other minorities, who lost their lives under the Nazi regime between 1933 and 1945. This specific date commemorates the liberation of the Auschwitz concentration camp.
Candlelight Ceremony and Community Involvement
The day will commence with a candlelight ceremony led by Select Board Chair Dan Fox, who will read a proclamation. Marblehead High School senior Sasha Ganezer, whose grandparents survived the Holocaust, will share their poignant stories and their impact on her life. This event reflects the community’s commitment to remember and honor the victims.
Later, a service organized by Rabbi Michael Schwartz will take place at Temple Sinai, located at 1 Community Road, starting at 6 p.m. This evening service is open to all community members. Fox will also serve as a guest speaker at this service, encouraging broader participation in both the afternoon and evening events.
Memory Kits Available for Caregivers
In addition to the Holocaust Remembrance events, Abbot Public Library has introduced memory kits to assist caregivers supporting family members living with dementia. Each of the four themed kits—seasons, the United States of America, pets, and birds—contains:
- Three to four books
- A selection of music and films
- Puzzles
- A tactile fidget item
These kits are designed to facilitate meaningful engagement and reminiscence. Each kit provides caregivers with a resource list and guidelines for effective usage.
Prevalence of Dementia
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, the estimated number of Americans aged 65 and older living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias is projected to reach 7.2 million by 2025, which includes approximately 135,200 individuals in Massachusetts alone. Notably, this statistic does not account for those experiencing early-onset dementia.
Upcoming Lecture on Dementia
On Thursday, February 5, from noon to 1 p.m., Abbot Public Library will host a lecture titled “A Dementia Primer: Causes, Diagnosis & Trajectory.” Presented by Dr. Beverly Thorn, a psychologist and author, this session aims to enlighten participants on the intricacies of dementia, diagnosis, and the importance of planning for care. Registration is limited to 35 participants, and pre-registration is required.
Community Engagement and Recognition
The Marblehead Counseling Center is currently accepting nominations for the second annual Amy Saltz Community Champions Award. This accolade honors individuals who significantly contribute to the health and wellness of the Marblehead community. The award is named after Amy R. Saltz, a local champion of humanitarian efforts. Nominations are open to residents aged 21 and older.
For more information on these events and initiatives, community members can visit El-Balad for updates and further details.
