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11:56:18 pm Oyster Aquaculture Proposal Considered

Categories: Mattapoisett

A regular meeting of the Mattapoisett Board of Selectmen was called to order by Chairman Jordan C. Collyer on March 9, 2010 at 7:00 pm in the Mattapoisett Town Hall Conference Room. Also in attendance were Selectmen Paul A. Silva and George Randall, Town Administrator Michael Gagne, and Assistant to the Selectmen Melody Pacheco.

After the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence for those who are serving and have served our country, the Board approved the minutes of the February 23, 2010 meeting, both open and executive session.

Although the end of the snow season is approaching, a snowstorm is still possible through April, so the Board voted to authorize snow and ice deficit spending if necessary for the balance of FY10.

Mattapoisett resident Tim Smith presented the Board with a restored photograph of three Mattapoisett selectmen from the middle part of the 20th century: Manuel Linhares, Lester Crampton and George White.

“One of my pleasures is playing with photography and restoration work,” Mr. Smith said as he handed the Board a framed copy of the old photograph that had originally been gifted to George Randall from Mattapoisett resident Richard Walker. The Board thanked Mr. Smith for his work and said that the picture will hang prominently in the town hall.

In their first appointment of the evening, the Board held an aquaculture public hearing for town resident Jim O’Dowd at 7:05. A crowd of over 50 abutters attended the public hearing to voice concerns about the eastern oyster farm aquaculture permit for which Mr. O’Dowd applied.

The application involves a 2-acre space of water in the area of Brant Island Cove. The project would involve the cultivation of eastern oysters, which were once plentiful before being over-fished in the shallow cove. Mr. O’Dowd selected Brant Island Cove as a location for his proposed oyster farm since it provides the correct depth at low tide (three feet), it is rich with phytoplankton and other “green” foods for oysters, and is protected. In addition, the cove is free from eel grass, which is a requirement for the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife to approve the grant.

Before opening up to public comment, the Board allowed Mr. O’Dowd to present his application. Mr. O’Dowd showed examples of the black polyethylene mesh “bags” that would contain the young oysters. The bags would occupy no more than a 2000 square-foot space at maximum capacity, would be changed as needed and checked monthly. In the first year, there would be 40 bags over 400 square-feet. Each year, the space needed and the amount of bags would increase until 1600-2000 square-feet was occupied. In the third or fourth year, Mr. O’Dowd said that he would request mooring for culling and cleaning oysters.

“I’ve heard some scuttlebutt around town about the impact this will have on navigation and pollution,” said Mr. O’Dowd. “Oysters will be basically cleaning up the cove… they remove nitrogen from the water.” He cited “large drives” on the east coast to encourage oyster aquaculture for the purpose of cleaning water. “I love oysters,” he continued, “and they have been disappearing all over town.”

As far as visual impact, Mr. O’Dowd said that only the eight buoys would be visible in the cove. He said that the bags would take up relatively little space and recreational water-goers, like kayakers, would be able to navigate around the buoys.

While the Board was receptive to the idea of encouraging aquaculture, the consensus from the Board was that the location was not “workable”. The cove is seen as a recreational area, and they were concerned with some of the safety and logistical problems that a private oyster farm would present to the activities in the cove.

“I don’t have my heels dug in on this [location] at all,” said Mr. O’Dowd.

“Aquaculture is a great way to go,” said Selectman Silva. “However, there are few places in Mattapoisett that is really appropriate for small boats.”

The abutters present expressed concern about the safety of the location for kayakers and small boats. Attorney Robert Feingold of New Bedford was at the meeting to represent several abutters, and he noted that the platform Mr. O’Dowd would need to use in the oyster farm area would be tempting for children to use as a diving spot in shallow waters. Furthermore, he said that the 1995 Massachusetts Coastal Zone Maintenance “White Paper” study showed that oyster farms produce 20 metric tons of fecal matter each year. He said the abutters were concerned that this fecal matter would not flush out of the cove and thus degrade the water quality.

“People swim there. There are wells there,” said Mr. Feingold.

Mr. O’Dowd noted that the “White Paper” study was quite dated, and Shellfish Officer Kathy Massey countered the claim that the oysters would dirty the water. She noted that a nearby oyster farm run by Bobby Fields has produced clean water even when other beds have to be closed, and has generally improved the water quality.

“I’m not a money-grubbing capitalist with no concern for the environment,” said Mr. O’Dowd, who again noted that he was willing to consider other locations.

Other concerns from the audience included the fairness involved with Mr. O’Dowd gaining a mooring spot without spending time on the waiting list and the other possible side effects of oyster culturing, like smell and the horseflies it could draw.

“There’s a lot of horseflies down there as it is… and you can’t grow dead oysters. If I get a smell of dead fish from there, I’ve got a problem,” said Mr. O’Dowd.

While most of the abutters argued against the location for oyster aquaculture, Paul Osenkowski defended the applicant, saying that the cove was not as densely traveled as some of the abutters were suggesting, and that he applauded Mr. O’Dowd “for producing something instead of buying from China.”

Abutter Kimberly Field encouraged the oyster aquaculture venture, but not in the proposed location. “I would love to keep this in Mattapoisett. I just don’t want to put my friends, my family and my guests in danger,” she said in reference to the decreased navigation in the rocky area of the cove.

“My goal is to find a home for you and your business,” said Selectman Silva to Mr. O’Dowd. “It would be good for Mattapoisett and for the environment.”

Mr. O’Dowd agreed to withdraw the application and will come up with three alternative locations in time for an April 13 special Board of Selectmen meeting at the Center School at 7:00 pm, where all abutters will get the chance to weigh in on the alternatives.

In the second appointment of the evening, the Board heard from Mary O’Keefe, who wished to inform the public that the April 13 switch would affect 12 channels, including Home and Garden, E! Entertainment, Lifetime, the Food Network and the Weather Channel. By May 11, everyone in Mattapoisett will need a digital converter box to receive a signal.

The Board took a moment to recognize Veteran’s Agent Barry Denham and Veteran’s Secretary Paula Butterfield for receiving their “certificate in training” for their annual Veteran’s Service training.

In Notes and Announcements, Ms. Pacheco informed the Board that the next Board of Selectmen meeting would be on Tuesday, March 23 at 7:00 pm in the Town Hall. Also, she noted that the Old Colony School Committee is looking for a new member to serve a three-year term. Those interested can learn more by calling the Selectmen’s Office at 508-758-4100 ext. 4.

In the Town Administrator’s report, Mr. Gagne informed the Board that both Mattapoisett and Rochester are waiting to hear back from the Boards of Health on the bidding of the solid waste and recycling curbside pickup.

There being no more business to attend to, the Board voted to adjourn at 10:05 pm.

By Anne O’Brien-Kakley

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11:56:14 pm From China To Marion

Categories: Marion

What do you do on a cold, snowy March day to interest 45 inquisitive fifth and sixth graders? You bring another culture into their classroom in the guise of some Tabor international students who volunteered to share a bit about their homelands of China, Hong Kong and Taiwan.

On Wednesday, March 3, the eleven Tabor students, all native Chinese speakers, came into the classroom of Mrs. Stacey Soucy, enrichment teacher at Sippican School, and spent time sharing with the fifth and sixth graders where their countries are, what their flags look like, what school and homework is like in China and something about how they live. They also answered questions such as “what sports do you play at home and at Tabor?” and “what was it like to come to a different country for the first time?”

Later they broke into small groups so that the students could learn their names in Chinese and how to write it in Chinese characters. This is the beginning of the Mandarin Outreach program under the direction of Mrs. Merry Conway, one of the coordinators of Tabor’s International Student Program. During the spring, the Chinese students will be back at Sippican to provide some more in-depth Mandarin language lessons.

The program is chaired by two Tabor seniors: Eric Chen from Taiwan and Janice Guan from China. Eric is excited to share a hands on exploration of his culture and language, “especially at this age, the students have open minds and more curiosity and care about learning new ideas.” Janice adds that she had never met anyone other than from her small area of China until about sixth or seventh grade. She says, “My view of the world changed when I met a foreigner and found that we could actually ‘talk’ even though we didn’t speak the same language.”

Another of the students, Tiantao Zheng, says, “As one of the biggest countries in the world, China has drawn people’s attention from all over the world. As a result, people are starting to learn Chinese and beginning to explore Chinese culture.  I believe that by learning Chinese, Americans can find out what culture and life in China is really like, and I am happy to have the opportunity to share our culture with the children of Sippican School.”

There are 75 International students at Tabor Academy this year, 28 of whom are native Chinese speakers.

By Susan Grosart

 

 

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11:56:08 pm Commercial Wind Turbine Hearing Continued

Categories: Marion

The Marion Planning Board held a meeting on March 8, 2010 at the Marion Town House. The meeting was called to order by Chairman Tom Magauran at 7:20 pm. Also present were Board Members Joseph Napoli, Jay Ryder, Steve Gonsalves, Patricia McArdle, Julia Crowley and the new Planning Board Secretary Terry Santos.

On the meeting agenda were three continued public hearings regarding two special permit requests, and an amendment to a zoning by-law.

Before the first hearing was officially opened, some old/new business was addressed. An ANR (approval not required) plan regarding 185 Wareham St. was put before the Board to discuss the potential for a subdivision. It was decided that discussion would be put off until the property is acquired.

Next, the possibility of a declaring of “scenic roads” in Marion was put forth by Ms. Crowley. Ms. Crowley is interested in protecting the trees and stone walls off of certain roads, yet doesn’t think it has to be a by-law. A motion was made to continue investigation on this subject.

At 7:30, the first of the public hearings was opened. Attorney Richard Schaefer was present to represent the Johnsons in the Shaw/Johnson special permit request for 404/406 Point Rd. The two properties in question are seeking permission to build a pier, which both properties would utilize. The issue is that neither property alone meets the lot requirements to build a pier, yet together as an Association, as they have proposed, the zoning requirements would be met. The property was at one point owned by only the Shaw family, and was split in 1985. The pier would have 700 feet of walkway leading through marshes with a 50-foot pier at the end.

The families have supplied the Homeowner’s Association agreement, as well as other favorable documents from the Conservation Commission and the Marine Resources Commission. The neighbors to the north of these properties have submitted a letter in favor of the project as well.

The Sippican Land Trust, to the south of the properties has raised two concerns, which the family’s feel can be easily addressed. The first concern is with a five-foot walking easement; the second is with the possibility of interference with the view.

After more discussion, a motion was made to again continue the hearing, to be scheduled for March 22, 2010 at 7:45pm.

The second public hearing was then opened at 8:10 pm. The Alternative Energy Committee was requesting an amendment to zoning by-law section 8.3. Norm Hills and Bill Saltonstall attended as representatives for the Committee. Mr. Hills presented an updated amendment for a possible wind turbine, which would greatly benefit the town by using natural resources. The amendment showed a change from 10 to 60 kilowatts and an undated set-back (distance from the nearest house or road) of at least 3 times the height of the turbine. A motion was made to continue this hearing on March 22, 2010 at 8:00 pm. The motion passed unanimously.

The final public hearing was a special permit request for a new shop in town called “Flour Girls”. Ms. Jill Houck is interested in setting up her shop at 4 Cottage St, in the same building as Serendipity. Ms. Houck plans to sell baked goods and pre-packaged goods. Chairman Magauran stated that even though this is a small business, “the by-law is the same for both big and small. We have to cross our t’s and dot our i’s.”

The Board agreed to allow this shop to move forward and a motion was made to approve the special permit request, subject to language. The motion passed unanimously.

The Board then considered the Carr Family Bogs request to divide rural land, separating 10 acres of cranberry bogs. Chairman Magauran claimed, “the lots meet the zoning requirements. I see no issues.” A motion was then made and unanimously approved.

The 2010 Committee will be holding a meeting on Thursday, March 11, 2010 at 7:00 pm at the Music Hall.

The minutes from the February 22, 2010 meeting were approved and a motion was then made to adjourn at 9:44 pm.

By Sarah K. Taylor

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11:56:03 pm ORR Debate Team Excels in Finals

Categories: News

“I thought it was a good season,” debate coach Mr. Colin Everett said after the ORR debate team completed its season on Wednesday, March 3. Four four-person teams, two varsity and two novice, have spent the last five months traveling to other Massachusetts schools in order to participate in the meets. There have been five meets with a total of nine competitive rounds. This year, the ORR debate team has hosted a meet and traveled to Hingham High School, Somerset High School, Bishop Stang, and finished the season at New Bedford High School. After Round 9, all the debaters in the league gathered in the Little Theater to watch the top affirmative and negative teams debate in Round 10, also known as the Exhibition Round, and the following Award Ceremony. It was during the ceremony that the ORR team learned how well they did in the season.

In total, the ORR debate team won thirteen awards. Awards are granted to the best individual debaters, two-person teams, and four-person teams in both the varsity and novice level. This year the ORR novices have done extremely well with a total of seven awards. All four novice affirmatives, who are freshmen Isabelle Gillis, Rebecca Johnson, and Marisa Parker and sophomore Anne Smith, received individual speaker point awards. Marisa Parker received tenth place novice affirmative speaker points, Isabelle Gillis received ninth place, Rebecca Johnson received seventh place, and Anne Smith received third place. Dan Kelley, one of the novice negatives, received second place novice negative speaker points. Two novice teams received awards for 2-person teams. Rebecca Johnson and Anne Smith won third place affirmative two-person team, and Dan Kelley and Sam Carey won second place negative two-person team.

The varsity teams won a total of six awards. Margie Pullo and Jean Smith both won individual speaker awards; Jean Smith received fifth place varsity affirmative speaker points and Margie Pullo received second place. As a two-person team, they received fourth place. Of the negatives, Kelsey Frink and Sophie Turowski won a total of three awards. Kelsey Frink received tenth place varsity negative speaker points and Sophie Turowski received sixth place. Their third award was tenth place two-person team.

The Eastern Massachusetts Debate League, which is “highly competitive” according to Mr. Everett, is made up of 11 high schools: Bishop Connolly, Bishop Feehan, Bishop Stang, Cohasset, Foxboro, Hingham, New Bedford, Old Rochester, Scituate, Somerset, and West Bridgewater. The league has a rough total of 50 four-person teams. Some teams have alternates, so Mr. Everett estimates that there are from 200 to 250 debaters that participate in the league. Only a small fraction of these debaters are recognized with awards at the end of the season.

While the debate team was, as a whole, successful this season, Mr. Everett says that the varsity didn’t do as well this year. “Going into finals,” he says of the varsity affirmative team, “we were second in the league.” But after a defeat in Round 9, which is extremely rough because it’s power-matched, the team fell back to fourth place. Even so, Mr. Everett is pleased with the debate team. “We saw a lot of growth in the novice teams this season,” Mr. Everett says, “…and ORR always does well.”

In Round 8, the varsity affirmative team saw a debate that ran afoul with the negatives challenging some of the debate rules. But this sort of argument happens all the time, says Mr. Everett. “One of the most highly debated things is the debate rules,” he explains. “[The rules] are purposely left open… because the definitions are debatable.”

Each year, the Eastern Massachusetts Debate League debates a single topic – called a resolution – that is also debated all around the country. The resolutions are filled with keywords that, like the debate rules, are debatable. It is the job of the affirmative team to define those keywords and present a plan that meets the resolution. The affirmative works with this plan throughout the debate season and focuses on creating the strongest plan possible. But it is the job of the negative team to attack both the affirmative plan and their definitions. They never know what plan will be presented during a debate and must work to disprove all the plans they encounter.

This year, the resolution was: “Resolved: The United States federal government should substantially increase social services for persons living in poverty in the United States.” At the end of the award ceremony, the resolution for the next season was announced. Debaters are switching topics from poverty to foreign policy with the new resolution: “Resolved: The United States federal government should substantially reduce its military and/or police presence in one or more of the following: South Korea, Japan, Afghanistan, Kuwait, Iraq, and Turkey.”

Debate isn’t as simple as writing a plan or attacking it. There is a strict timetable to follow, with eight-minute constructives to present evidence, three-minute cross-examinations to ask questions, and four-minute rebuttals to summarize arguments. Arguments are made in terms of the six stock issues, which are: need for change, inherency, solvency, topicality, workability, and advantages/disadvantages. In order to win a debate, the affirmative team must convince the judge that they have successfully argued all six stock issues. The negative team only needs to win one in order to win the debate.

While the ORR debate team is fairly laid-back for such a competitive activity, its goal is sincere. The central idea of the debate team, Mr. Everett says, “is the individual growth of the student to make coherent and powerful arguments, and to detect fallacious arguments… and crush them.”

In the 2009-2010 debate season, crush them they did.

By Anne Smith

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11:55:56 pm Tabor Student Named All-State Top Clarinetist

Categories: Marion

Tabor Academy sophomore Sarah Purdy will serve as the top clarinetist for the Massachusetts Music Educators’ All-State Festival. Ms. Purdy won this prestigious honor after earning top marks during the All-State audition in January.

To serve as principal clarinetist in the orchestra, Ms. Purdy had to beat out approximately 100 creme de la creme clarinet students from five districts, according to Tabor Academy Chairman of the Music Department Phil Sanborn.

“Rarely do we have someone who gets first chair,” Mr. Sanborn said – noting that it only has happened one other time during his 25-year career at Tabor. In the meantime, Ms. Purdy is gearing up for a performance of a lifetime.

“I’m really excited. I didn’t expect it to happen,” Ms. Purdy said, noting that she did not perform as well last year because of a sickness. This year, however, she was healthy and motivated. “I worked really hard, right in the middle of mid-term exams. It paid off,” she said.

The young musician began playing the clarinet in fourth grade. Her mother – a flautist who graduated from the New England Conservatory of Music – at first warned her daughter that being an orchestral musician is a tall order due to the high competition. However, Ms. Purdy knew early on that she wanted to be a musician, and now her mom is one of her more ardent cheerleaders. The sophomore is still two years away from college, but she can see herself studying music in college and possibly English or History at the graduate level.

Ms. Purdy served as first chair during both her freshman and sophomore years in the Tabor Academy Wind Ensemble; she also performed in the All-State band last year. Ms. Purdy is one of the few sophomores in the New England Conservatory of Music’s Youth Philharmonic. In addition, she studies with Michael Norsworthy of the Boston Conservatory of Music.

The All-State Festival is scheduled for March 18-20 in Boston. The All-State select ensembles, including band, chorus, jazz band and orchestra, will perform at 1:00 pm on March 20 at Boston’s Symphony Hall.

By Laura Pedulli

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11:55:50 pm Mattapoisett Man Recognized for Haiti Response

Categories: Mattapoisett

Mattapoisett resident Jim Corrazini was among the nine workers presented with a letter of appreciation from Mr. Fugate for his work in assisting the Haiti relief effort during January and February. Mr. Corrazini, along with eight other members of the Mobile Emergency Response Support (MERS) personnel, departed for Haiti on January 16 on board a US Air Force C-17. Along with a security team, an Incident Response Vehicle (IRV) and other “support vehicles.” The group helped U.S. agencies like United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in the area of Port-Au-Prince.

At a March 1 meeting, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator W. Craig Fugate thanked the nine MERS members for assisting in disaster relief efforts in Haiti after the January 12 earthquake that register 7.0 on the Richter scale, killed as many as 230,000 Haitians, and left over a million people homeless.

Since the MERS team was unarmed, and since the situation in Haiti is so unstable, a security team accompanied the group there “in the event that they had to leave the embassy compound,” said FEMA representative Dennis Pinkham.

According to Mr. Pinkham, the mission lasted a month, with MERS using satellite communication transmitting to aid communication between U.S. agencies to provide relief. Since Haiti’s entire infrastructure was all but destroyed, communication is critical to relief efforts.

Mr. Corazzini, who worked for 30 years at AT&T before taking a job with FEMA 10 years ago, said that the MERS group dispatches in times of disaster to set up temporary, emergency communication centers to assist the White House staff and relief agencies.

“We make an office building soup to nuts,” said Mr. Corazzini. After selecting a large, vacant building, such as an old Walmart, MERS sets up temporary offices that include computers, desks, chairs and other needed communication items.

All members of the MERS team are CDL licensed to drive semi-trailers loaded with office equipment, partitions, personal food and water supplies, and a mobile HVAC system.

Mr. Corazzini described his trip to Haiti as a “long four weeks” in which he and his fellow MERS workers had to take anti-malaria pills and breathe in debris from the earthquake’s destruction. Upon returning to the United States, the MERS team members each started a round of preventative antibiotics. Even with all these health precautions, Mr. Corazzini said that a lot of the MERS personnel have felt ill since returning to the United States.

While in Haiti, they experienced an aftershock that registered a 5.1 on the Richter scale. This was the first earthquake Mr. Corazzini ever experienced. “A couple of days after we got there, I experienced [an earthquake] and it was eye-opening to say the least,” said Mr. Corazzini. “It was incredible. You are just sitting in a chair and all of the sudden the chair is moving for no reason.”

In addition to their Haiti effort, MERS has responded to 9/11, and Mr. Corazzini assisted MERS in responding to Hurricane Katrina’s aftermath. They also assist in “relatively minor” disasters such as extreme snow and flooding, though Mr. Corazzini notes that no disastrous event is ever “small” to them.

Not surprisingly, this work comes with serious risk. The disaster regions that MERS visits are chaotic. In Haiti, Mr. Corazzini said traffic laws were completely absent, and it was common to see several lanes of traffic trying to navigate a narrow, two-lane street. One of the MERS workers was killed in a semi-trailer accident en route to Katrina in 2005. Still, Mr. Corazzini said that he enjoys this job and all of the challenges it presents.

“It’s a very interesting, very rewarding job,” said Mr. Corazzini. “It’s the best job I’ve ever had.”

By Anne O’Brien-Kakley

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11:55:43 pm Who Will be the Next Local Idol?

Categories: News

Local children are singing their hearts out and getting ready for the third annual Magic of Music Idol contest planned for this Saturday, March 13 at the Knights of Columbus hall in Mattapoisett, and it’s all thanks to Rochester musician Jillian Jensen.

Ms. Jensen, who has been studying music since she won the Little Miss Talent New England at the age of two, is excited for another opportunity to raise money for music scholarships. The Magic of Music Idol contest is the main source of revenue for her organization, which gives scholarships to children who otherwise might not be able to afford musical instruments or lessons.

The gesture to help children get music lessons is kind enough – but when you stop to consider that Ms. Jensen is only a senior in high school and has been running this scholarship organization since she was 14 – this gesture is downright impressive.

“I’ve been doing music since I was two,” said Ms. Jensen, who holds the title of 2007 Miss Teen Massachusetts. “I realized that I was blessed with the opportunity to take lessons and buy musical instruments, but I had a lot of friends who couldn’t afford it, and it made me want to help.”

Since starting the Magic of Music Scholarship Program, Ms. Jensen has been able to give out eight scholarships amounting to $5,000 to foster musical abilities for southeastern Massachusetts children.

This year, the Magic of Music Idol Contest is looking like it will be the biggest one yet. “Believe it or not, we’ve got 44 contestants lined up, which is more than we’ve ever had,” said Ms. Jensen. “Last year we had 17, and we had 20 the year before that.”

Contestants are coming from all over – from Sharon, MA to Tiverton, RI to the Tri-Town – to test-drive their vocal chords and get some honest, but age-appropriate, feedback.

“The judges know to be gentle,” said Ms. Jensen. While the judges do give positive reinforcement to the Idol contestants, they also give constructive advice to the aspiring musicians on how they could maximize their future performances.

The Magic of Music Idol contest has three categories: one for children 9 and under, one for children between 10 and 12, and one for children 13 and up. Children between the ages of six and 18 are welcome to participate in the contest. In each category, three winners will be announced. Of the top three winners in each category, the performer with the highest score will have the ultimate treat – the chance to record an original song at Grand Arson Entertainment. The song will be co-written by songwriters Brady of Grand Arson and Ms. Jensen.

Other winners will get cash prizes, gift certificates and free lessons from area vocal coaches.

In addition to performances from Idol hopefuls, the audience will be treated to performances from 2009 Magic of Music Idol winners Alexa Cahill and Simone Cardoso, and from Ms. Jensen herself.

Ms. Jensen, who performs with her successful band Dollhouse, is looking forward to this weekend’s event and is hoping it will raise at least $2,000. “The more money we get, the more scholarships we can give out,” said Ms. Jensen.

The Idol contest will start at 6:30 and tickets are $10. For more information about the Idol contest, or to learn more about the music scholarship, visit the Magic of Music website at MagicofMusic.weebly.com.

By Anne O’Brien-Kakley

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11:55:39 pm Music Director Retires from OHS

Categories: Mattapoisett

After a distinguished 29-year career in music education, Stanley Ellis will step down from the role of Music Director at Old Hammontown School this spring. Over the years, Mr. Ellis has become a fixture in the Tri-Town community known for bolstering music programs at Old Rochester Regional District schools and leaving an indelible mark on students whom he immersed in the art of jazz, orchestra and concert band.

The timing of his departure is appropriate. On March 18, Mr. Ellis will receive the Life Achievement Award from the International Association of Jazz Educations, Massachusetts Division, at its state conference in Boston.

The recognition is unsurprising given the number of awards earned during his tenure. From 2006-2010, the Massachusetts Choral and Conductors Association awarded the concert band 11 gold medals and three silver medals, earning them three performances at Tanglewood and two at Symphony Hall. Likewise, the orchestra earned four gold medals and two trips to Symphony Hall and two to Mechanics hall in Worcester. In jazz – the music form dearest to Mr. Ellis’ heart – his OHS band earned two silver medals and 17 straight gold medals.

As he sat in an unusually quiet classroom with empty music chairs, Mr. Ellis reminisced about highlights of his career. He remembered fondly the time when the ORRHS big band won an international competition at the Berklee College of Music. He also recalled a student trip to Washington D.C. and Virginia, during which his 22 elementary students performed at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Arts and Shenandoah University.

The trip left a strong impression on 23-year-old Trevor Kellum, an accomplished saxophone player who graduated last year from Berklee College of Music. Mr. Kellum discovered a natural aptitude for the saxophone as a fifth grader in Mr. Ellis’ class. At the time, he described participation in jazz band like “being on a football team in elementary school.” He said that the influx of medals and awards bestowed on the band left a deep impression on him as a boy.

“We accomplished so much and we set the standard. All of these kids became really great players and were propelled through the years. It was special to be a part of that,” he said.

Mr. Kellum also noted that Mr. Ellis’ insistence on a strong disciplinary attitude helped the kids succeed in ways they had not thought were possible. Indeed, as Mr. Ellis wrote in his statement of retirement: “[My students] have learned discipline, team work, ethics, scheduling of time and to know what it is like to be on a winning team and to perform at their very best each time they play.”

Mr. Kellum is now a highly-sought musician involved in all aspects of music production. He credits the school program for helping him professionally in addition to learning the art of music appreciation.

“I’m 100 percent for music in schools. I think the general public needs to have more understanding of the artistic end of your everyday life,” Mr. Kellum said. “Everyone loves music, but do you really appreciate the music you are listening to?”

Students who benefited from Mr. Ellis’ instruction include teachers Amy Casi, Beth Valliere and Melissa Farias. “Some have continued performing while others have moved on to other things. All have benefited by having this program, a full time band program,” Mr. Ellis stated.

What’s next for Mr. Ellis? A little-known fact about Mr. Ellis is that he is fond of animals – in particular cats – and illustrative drawing. Before embarking on a music career, he originally wanted to be a veterinarian but could not stomach the thought of cutting an animal open. Combining his love for animals and drawing, Mr. Ellis is self-publishing The Whiskers on My Cat – an illustrated book dispensing cat facts for “cat lovers of all ages” – in April.

Mr. Ellis feels strongly that prospective pet owners should research cats before adopting them to ensure a good match is made. For instance, a little-known fact is that baby breath can be poisonous to cats, thus this fact should be taken into consideration when adopting the animal, he said.

In addition, Mr. Ellis will continue to perform at gigs and teach twice per week at the Symphony Music Shop in Dartmouth.

As for OHS, the search is still on for a replacement – but it can be safely said that the next music teacher has big shoes to fill.

By Laura Pedulli

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11:55:28 pm AFS Students Visit the Mattapoisett Woman's Club

Categories: Mattapoisett

High school students Natacha (Jai) Tanrattanawong (Grade 12) from Thailand, Diego Saldana (Grade 12) from Panama, and Peter Augustin (Grade 10) from Germany, will begin their American Field Service presentation at 1:20 pm, Thursday, March 18, at Reynard Hall in the Mattapoisett Congregation Church, at 27 Church Street, Mattapoisett. All are welcome to attend, and this is a free and open to the public event.

The students will share with the Woman's Club and guests some of the experiences they have had while attending Old Rochester Regional High School in Mattapoisett, during this academic year. Since the majority of the Mattapoisett Woman's Club membership is of retirement age, it is hopeful that connecting and incorporating a dialogue between the young foreign exchange students and club members, will be a unique inter-generational experience for both groups, especially in a diverse global-sense.

Kim Corazzini, Advisor to the AFS Club for the past four years describes the program, "as a knowledgeable and intercultural unique learning experience for the participants." At Old Rochester Regional High School, Kim said, "the AFS program is always supported because of the knowledge about different cultures and the awareness of intercultural communication." Ms Corazzini, who is also the school nurse at the high school, said that her 25 club members also travel to places within the United States to share experiences with other high school students. They have been to California, Illinois and Kansas.

Recently this year the AFS club's members, along with other ORR students totaling 40 students, all visited the United Nations, which proved to be a life-changing trip. They learned about global history, leadership, human rights and peacekeeping operations, in addition to experiencing the workings of meetings, briefings and many types of conferences, that the General Assembly and Security Council represent. The trip provided both vital and analytical learning tools and skills.

The club's exchange student representative from ORR this year is Jordan Seim, a junior, who is spending her academic year in Switzerland. Ms. Corazzini said that a few of Jordan's classmates traveled to Switzerland to be with her over Christmas break.

In February, the AFS club sponsored an exhibition crafts fair festival for younger children at Mattapoisett's Center School.

Kim Corazzini urges and most earnestly hopes that more people will offer to become host families for this knowledgeable cultural exchange program that has functioned at Old Rochester Regional High School and has been in operation for over forty years, since the early 1970s.

To find out more about this worthwhile program and how to be a host family, please contact Kim Corazzini at Old Rochester Regional High School 508-758-3745 ext.1620.

And in the meantime, please join the Mattapoisett Woman's Club at noon on Thursday, March 18, 2010, at Reynard Hall in the Mattapoisett Congregational Church for lunch, and stay to enjoy the AFS program with three wonderful international exchange students; Natacha (Jai) Tanrattanawong, Diego Saldana and Peter Augustin as the feature speakers of the month.

By Ellen Flynn, MWC President

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11:54:29 pm More Roadwork Ahead for Marion Village

Categories: Marion

Marion Village is bracing for another round of heavy construction, which is set to begin next week and conclude by the end of May. The Phase 3A Village Loop Structural Repairs will include deep digging along Front and Hiller streets with the aim of replacing the sewer system.

Marion Board of Selectmen, Town Administrator Paul F. Dawson, Superintendent of Public Works Robert Zora, and contractor representatives met with abutters of the roadwork March 9 to address concerns and answer questions regarding the next phase of construction.

The goal of the meeting was to foster communication between abutters and town officials after unanticipated construction blocked access to shops during the holiday season. “We know the business area had a terrible time during the Christmas season,” said Mr. Dawson. “The weather conspired against us, contract time conspired against us, and we conspired against ourselves sometimes quite honestly.” To that end, he said the meeting’s purpose is to help residents and business owners understand the impact of the spring roadwork.

In a discussion on the construction plans, superintendent Zora said that Cape Ann Equipment will begin installing a temporary, above-ground water main system as a safety precaution for the workers who, at times, will be as deep as 17 feet underground. Shutting the water off would eliminate the water pressure in the new main and prevent the possibility of a blow out, he said.

As such, temporary water will be fed to abutters via a garden hose connected to outside faucets. Mr. Zora promised two abutters in the area – the postmaster and a building owner – a good flow even by alternative means if no spigot is available. “We will find a way to make sure you have flow into your house,” he said. The superintendent assured the affected residents that they will not pay for extra water or sewage use charges during the project as the water meter will be inactive the entire duration of the temporary water phase.

In addition, Mr. Zora said there would be police officers at both ends of the construction to reroute traffic. At all times at least one parking lot will be available for visitors: the General Store or the Island Wharf parking lot. Jim Brodeur – the on-site Resident Engineer – urged residents and business owners to openly communicate with the policemen about anticipated shipments.

In response to an inquiry on when sidewalks will be completed, Mr. Zora said likely not until the fall of 2011. The sidewalks will be made of concrete with granite curbing because “granite lasts forever,” he said.

One affected businesswoman requested that signs be prominently displayed notifying visitors that businesses are open. Mr. Dawson assured her that signs would be made stating that all businesses are open in the center. In addition, he said there would be signs stating where parking is available.

Another issue raised was whether the water pressure under the temporary system will be adequate to fight fires. “We’ll have adequate capacity to fight fires,” Mr. Zora assured the residents.

For all other inquiries before and during the project, Mr. Brodeur said that he serves as the point of contact. Mr. Dawson promised to keep affected residents and business owners updated and conceded that as much as he hopes work will be completed by May, further delays may be possible.

“We know you’ve been patient. It is an embarrassment when you go to other towns and you see what their centers look like and ours has been in rough shape for a long, long time,” said Mr. Zora. “This should be the final phase and hopefully when we get this all done we’ll do a super job for you.”

By Laura Pedulli

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01:53:47 pm The Wanderer’s Annual Oscar Pick Contest

Categories: News

What a great year for the Oscars! With Steve Martin and Alec Bladwin hosting and the newly expanded ten-choice Best Picture category, there was plenty to see for everyone.

Seventy-two people entered our annual Oscar Picks contest, and of those there were nine people who guessed right on all six categories. The top entries included; Mary Hasenfuss of Natick, Kissy Turner of Newton Highlands, Bobbie Crowley of Sudbury, Mary White of Newton, Michelle Couto of Mattapoisett, Thomas Couto of Mattapoisett, Rodney Worsham of Winfield, Kansas, Michael Ailes of Mattapoisett, and last but not least former Wanderer News Editor Kenneth Souza.

From the top entries a single winner was drawn at random, and now for the moment you’ve all been waiting for. The winner of The Wanderer Oscars Gift bag is... Michele Couto of Mattapoisett!

The winners in the top categories for the 2010 Academy Awards were:

•Best Picture - The Hurt Locker

•Best Director - Kathryn Bigelow (The Hurt Locker)

•Best Actor - Jeff Bridges (Crazy Heart)

•Best Supporting Actor - Christopher Waltz (Inglorious Basterds)

•Best Actress - Sandra Bullock (The Blind Side)

•Best Supporting Actress - Mo'Nique (Precious: Based on the Novel 'Push' by Sapphire)

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11:59:50 pm Village Roadwork Set for April

Categories: Marion

A regular meeting of the Marion Board of Selectmen was called to order by Chairman Stephen Cushing on March 2, 2010 at 7:00 pm in the Marion Town House. Also in attendance were selectmen Roger Blanchette and Jonathan Henry, Town Administrator Paul Dawson and Assistant to the Selectmen Helene Craver.

Before beginning the meeting, the Board of Selectmen observed a moment of silence for the Schuessler family of Marion. Julie Bliss Casey of the Schuessler family was once a resident of Marion and died last Friday, along with her husband and two young children in a Belize plane crash. Mr. Dawson said that Ms. Casey had family and friends among town employees, and he said that residents were “stunned by this tragedy”. A memorial service is planned to take place on Friday, March 5 at the Tabor chapel, and Mr. Dawson said that the town house may run on a “skeleton crew” while they try to coordinate as many workers to attend the service as possible.

In the first appointment of the evening, the Board received an informational update from Mary Pierce and Dean LaVoie of the Buzzard’s Bay Regatta. Ms. Pierce informed the Board that they have been in touch with police chief Lincoln Miller and the harbormaster to make sure that this year’s regatta – planned for August 6-8 – will be smooth and that the town will not be negatively impacted by the “tremendous influx of people in town”. The Board voted to approve an application for the regatta.

In a second appoint, the Board heard from David Pierce, Rob Zora, John Gregory and fire chief Thomas Joyce in a report from the Water Committee.

The Water Committee wished to update the Board on several projects that they have been working on: a hydraulic model update, a plan to address the problematic water tower in the area of Great Hill, and an update on the “Village Loop 2” plan.

The hydraulic model with an updated water distribution system study and map would cost $40,000 combined. An updated water distribution map would detail where water is going in Marion, where the hydrants are, and would show the effect Rochester’s increasing need for water would place on the Marion infrastructure. It would also reveal the impact of additional housing in Marion on the water system. This is a long-term project that would require an absolute minimum of 18 months to two years to conduct.

Selectman Henry reminded the Water Committee that they should be working on the Insurance Service (ISO) rating for the sake of fire insurance. If the Water Committee could improve the town’s ISO rating, they could save money each year in fire insurance. The Water Committee said that they would work on this and give an update at their next report.

Mr. Pierce discussed the situation with the 1965 2 million gallon water tower in the area of Great Hill. The tank is currently in disrepair, with the concrete crumbling to reveal the iron ribbing of the structure, and the roof is of concern. Once the iron is exposed to sea air, the structure’s safety will get “more and more desperate” according to Mr. Zora. Since repair estimates came in at $375,000, the Committee worried that they might “throw good money after bad” and decided to not repair the structure. Instead, they are going to conduct a study to see where placement of a new tower would best benefit the town and will take a “wait and see” approach with the Great Hill tower, which they assure the town is not going “to collapse tomorrow”.

In the final Water Committee item, the Board was updated on the progress of the Village Loop 2, which will bring “heavy digging” in the village in April and will end on May 30. While they hope the sewer/water work will end permanently on May 30, it is likely that the work will start back up after Labor Day.

Selectman Henry said that he “got beat up” over the roadwork that took place during the peak Christmas shopping season on Front Street.

Mr. Zora replied that, “it was difficult. The gas main was in the wrong place… we were working in a tight place.” Mr. Zora said that “heavy duty digging” would resume in April when they would dig up Pleasant and Converse Streets.

“I appreciate everyone putting up with it. It’s going to be tough in the village and we know it… the worst is coming, I’m afraid. There is no other way to do it.”

In Action items, the Board approved the following items:

• Two water commitments in the amounts of $340.70 and 770.00.

• An all-alcohol one-day license to the Marion Social Club for a March 7 event.

• A wine/malt one-day license to the Zeiterion Theatre for a March 5-6 event at the Music Hall.

• A request for road closure at Holmes Street for the Marion Boy Scout Troop #32, who will be conducting a Soap Box Derby on March 21 between 12:00 and 3:00 pm.

• An appointment of Superintendent Douglas White to replace Dr. Cooper as a member of the Marion Scholarship Education Fund Committee.

• Authorization to go into deficit spending with snow and ice removal.

In his Town Administrator’s report, Mr. Dawson discussed the recent “Three Table” discussion with the other Tri-Town Boards of Selectmen, where full K-12 regionalization of schools was discussed. At this meeting, the school budget was presented, and Selectman Blanchette expressed concern about a line item allowing for an “Assistant Superintendent” in the amount of $9,500. Upon questioning, Mr. Blanchette learned that the position is for a curriculum advisor for the schools.

Selectman Blanchette said that he was concerned the title of “Assistant Superintendent” would allow negotiations for a higher pay if the position were filled in the future. He suggested drafting a letter to the ORR School Committee requesting to rename the title “Curriculum Advisor” to eliminate the possibility of budget issues in the future, and said that he was willing to vote down the budget altogether at town meeting if necessary.

Selectman Henry agreed, though he wanted the letter to express disapproval in a way that wouldn’t “attempt to overthrow the system”.

“There’s no need for this to go all the way to town meeting,” said Selectman Blanchette. “Once it goes to town meeting, it becomes contentious.” The Board voted to send a letter to the ORR School Committee requesting the title be changed from “Assistant Superintendent” to “Curriculum Advisor”.

After a brief update on the police station work – contractors are working on electricity, the roof is complete and windows are installed – Mr. Dawson informed the Board that work has begun on Littleneck Village. In addition, he asked the Board to authorize him to “execute any and all documents necessary… with MassHousing” to facilitate closing on the Littleneck property with contractors E.A. Fish.

In Correspondence, the Board heard from Chief Joyce, who named Wareham residents James Monteiro and Matthew VanDeusen as new probationary fire fighters effective February 8. The Board was also informed that road construction will take place on the Marion stretch of 195 between March 15 and April 11.

Selectman Henry informed the Board that he had also received a letter from Southeastern Massachusetts Regional Planning and Economic Development District (SRPEDD) in regards to updating their Federal Emergency Hazard Mitigation Program. Marion’s participation, which would be funded through a grant, would update building and roadway standards to reduce replacement costs in flood plains. The Board voted to participate in the program.

There being no more business to attend to, the Board voted to adjourn at 8:45 pm.

By Anne O’Brien-Kakley

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11:59:44 pm Three Tri-Town Athletes Named for Award

Categories: News

Three Tri-Town student-athletes have been named as finalists for the prestigious Dave Cowens Achievement Award, which goes to the top male and female athletes in the region. The recipient is selected by a group of southeastern Massachusetts school representatives, who look over a pool of finalists and pick a male and female winner based on athletic accomplishments, academic standing and attitude.

The three Tri-Town nominees are: Marion resident Michelle Franklin, Rochester resident Nick Filloramo, and for Bishop Stang, Marion resident Ted Bancroft.

According to Coach Bob Hohne, Lady Bulldog Michelle Franklin has been “the heart and soul of the Lady Bulldogs for the past three seasons”. Ms. Franklin’s GPA is 3.71 and she plans to study nursing when she attends college next year.

Coach Hohne describes Ms. Franklin as a “blue collar” worker on the court, using her “controlled passion” as an example for other athletes. She is a leader, and has averaged nearly 11 points a game. Besides her skill on the court, Ms. Franklin volunteers for her church choir and an elderly visitation program.

Mr. Filloramo, a three-year varsity member, is captain of the basketball team, a baseball captain and a soccer captain. In 2009, Mr. Filloramo was named an S.C.C. all-star pitcher. A member of the National Honor Society and a volunteer for an area food pantry, Mr. Filloramo is a rounded and compassionate student who plans on attending Wheaton College next year.

Bishop Stang has nominated Ted Bancroft, a co-captain for the varsity basketball team. Mr. Bancroft averaged 13.5 points per game and is an Eastern Athletic Conference All-Star. Besides excelling at basketball, Mr. Bancroft also excels at golf and is a member of the National Honor Society. In community service, Mr. Bancroft has helped raise money for the Special Olympics, ALS and St. Anne’s Hospital.

21 area schools participate in the annual Dave Cowens Award. The winner will be announced at the awards reception at the Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School at 1121 Ashley Boulevard in New Bedford on Wednesday, March 10 at 5:00 pm.

By Anne O’Brien-Kakley

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11:59:39 pm Southcoast Assesses Health Needs

Categories: News

Tri-Town residents got the chance to attend a presentation from Southcoast Health System on February 25, 2010 at the Mattapoisett library. This “needs assessment” program outlined the specific health problems and challenges in Southeastern Massachusetts, including the Tri-Town, and was co-sponsored by the Mattapoisett Free Public Library and the Mattapoisett Social and Wellness Center.

Southcoast Health System is a non-profit “community-based health delivery system” that includes St. Luke’s Hospital in New Bedford, Charlton Memorial Hospital in Fall River and Tobey Hospital in Wareham.

Kerry Mello, the Marketing and Community Relations Coordinator for Southcoast Health outlined a Community Needs Assessment that detailed the health challenges unique to the Southcoast of Massachusetts, from Rhode Island to Cape Cod. She describes their findings as being data-supported opinions.

According to the needs assessment, many residents feel that the major health problems facing the Southcoast are: diet and obesity (which leads to heart disease and diabetes), smoking, alcohol and drugs, and mental health issues. In southeastern Massachusetts, only one-quarter of the residents consume the amount of fruits and vegetables they should, and one-quarter of the residents are considered “obese”, with Fall River having the highest rate of obesity in the region.

Fall River, New Bedford and Wareham all have the highest smoking rates in the area, with Wareham having the highest rate of lung cancer in all of Massachusetts.

One of the most troubling issues on the rise, especially in the Southcoast, is “youth risk behavior.” Included in this category are underage drinking and teen pregnancy.

“Teen pregnancy in the larger community is a very big problem,” admitted Ms. Mello. “When you don’t have the funding to address the issue, the rates go right back up.”

An issue that affects all towns and communities in the area is that of maternal/child health issues. “These are the most vulnerable people in our population,” said Ms. Mello, who said that in poorer communities, the rate of expecting mothers who smoke was very high – over 20% in Wareham.

Ms. Mello said that they wanted to work on all communities on the Southcoast to encourage breastfeeding and to reduce c-section rates. The audience present at the program was particularly interested in why breastfeeding rates were so low.

“Maybe I’m old fashioned, but I thought breastfeeding was cheap and natural,” said library director Susan Pizzolato.

Ms. Mello cited cultural issues and working schedules as reasons why the breastfeeding rate is lower than they would like to see. Southcoast Health System has tried to address the issue by having certified lactation consultants at all of the hospitals – St. Luke’s, Charlton Memorial, and Tobey (where the breastfeeding rate is currently the highest at 70%).

In their community outreach, Southcoast Health System focused on addressing cardiovascular disease and youth risk behavior, while improving access to healthcare to citizens in the area. A cardiac disease prevention program encompassing area schools (including Old Rochester Regional) gathers information from students and educates kids on how to keep their hearts healthy. Ms. Mello said that middle-schoolers are particularly receptive to the program. “Once you get them fired up, they are great advocates,” she said. A lot of that advocacy includes returning home and encouraging their parents to have healthy lifestyles. Sadly, this program also determines that a lot of middle school children are pre-diabetic.

In cardiovascular screening and outreach, Southcoast Health System has affected 35,000 people in the past three years, and there has been a noted 10% heart health improvement among those screened.

Other preventative programs include a youth pregnancy prevention program, a stroke awareness program, youth summits and the Southcoast health van. The van is available to all communities, and it allows for mobile blood drives, health screening and education.

Ms. Mello said, “the issues are kind of daunting and depressing”, but the group is still making great strides to address local issue with grants to end obesity, smoking, and keep “Mass in Motion”.

Southcoast Health systems envisions a future of improving lifestyles. They want to encourage planning boards to design more sidewalks and bike lanes, and hope that more local farmers’ markets will make good food readily available to all socioeconomic groups.

“People think ‘I can’t afford fruits and vegetables’,” said Ms. Mello, “but with education, that’s changing.”

For more information on the Southcoast Health System, visit www.southcoast.org.

By Anne O’Brien-Kakley

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11:59:35 pm Marion School Reviews FY 2011 Budget

Categories: Marion

A regular meeting of the Marion School Committee was called to order by Chairperson Jane McCarthy at 6:30 pm in the Sippican School library. Also present was committee members Christine Winters, Jay Pateakos, Joseph Scott, and Vice Chairman Brad Gordon. Additional attendees included Superintendent Douglas White, School Business Administrator Kathleen Isernio, Interim Principal Lyn Rivet and Director of Student Services Teresa Hamm.

In the Principal’s report, Ms. Rivet discussed the school’s continued investigation of implementing Every Day Math. She also described the addition of student artwork in the school policy handbook. In regard to the school bus bullying situation, she reported that the problems have “calmed down” in part because the driver spent a week and a half sitting in the back of the bus (with another driver at the helm) to monitor behavior. In addition, students on the bus were given assigned seats to further discourage bullying behavior.

Also, Ms. Rivet discussed proposed clarifications in school policy to define “excessive” tardiness, absences, and early dismissals to more than 7 per year (combined). She provided the school committee with information on the policy change in anticipation of a formal discussion on the matter.

Library teacher Jessica Barrett then gave a presentation – which included a video starring Sippican School students – on the “success” of the Winter Reading Challenge “Around the World in 18 Days.” Between January 11 and 29, children documented their reading habits and translated them to miles on a map. For every 30 minutes of reading, the children logged five miles on a world map posted on the library wall. Starting from Marion, the students “traveled” the globe and learned about countries on the map depending on their daily mileage. In total, the students traversed 15,608 miles – from Marion to eastern Russia.

Shortly thereafter, Schoolteacher Diane Cooke discussed a sustainability audit of Sippican conducted by the Marion Institute. Representatives of the Institute had visited the school to study the school’s overall energy efficiency and speak with students directly about their views of the school’s sustainability practices. Ms. Cooke said she was “encouraged” by the experience and received positive feedback from children and parents alike. She also described a “warm interchange” between cafeteria staff and Zoe Hansen-DiBello, the Marion Institute Sustainable Education and Youth Coordinator.

The board then approved the January 20 minutes with changes, including a clarification that the new point-of-sale system for the cafeteria will involve a pin pad, not a swipe card. The new system will be implemented during April vacation, Ms. Isernio said. The school budget subcommittee then approved minutes for January 5, January 19 and February 18.

In her finance report, Ms. Isernio noted a $24,000 shortfall in the Marion’s school budget for the line item on English Language Learning. She said Marion helped foot the bill for district-wide, state-mandated ELL personnel training to teach additional ELL students, but she said Sippican would be reimbursed for funds incurred outside of the school. Ms. Isernio then promised to provide information on rental and revolving accounts to the school board at future meetings.

At this point, Mr. White provided a preliminary overview of the Sippican School budget. After laying out data on enrollment figures, teachers, class-sizes, maintenance staff, paraprofessionals and student services currently offered at the school – the superintendent provided a draft of the FY 2011 budget – 3.79% over current levels at $5,133,250. Maintaining “level service” would have required a 7.78% increase, or a budget of $5,330,326, according to the budget summary report.

Mr. White delineated “regular day” costs from special education expenses to provide a clearer picture of the cost cutting necessary to maintain student services as much as possible. Due to large increases in special education expenses – costs for out-of-district programs are $295,278 over the current budget – the school is required to cut $109,342 from the regular day budget, according to Mr. White. To eliminate $109,342 from the budget, he proposed cuts in areas including equipment and its maintenance, supplies, lead teacher stipends, training for the now-defunct Reading Recovery program, and the elimination of one classroom teacher. Ms. Rivet said the teacher in question – which affects students going into 5th grade next year – is going on a one-year maternity leave; Ms. Rivet admits that she is unsure how the position will be restored the following year.

Ms. Hamm said that despite failed efforts to establish an in-district program for special needs children, she hopes that one will come to fruition in the future. Although the program itself may not reduce costs dramatically, she said the savings on transportation costs – earmarked at $183,988 in the draft FY 11 budget – would be notable. She conceded that one hurdle to developing such a program is the fluctuating number of students utilizing the services each year.

In response to concern from parents on the impact of the proposed cuts and overall outlook for Marion school funding, Mr. White noted that the cuts could have been worse and the “fact we were asked to do 2% and we were able to get 3.79% shows that the town is working with us.” The parents and school board then talked about the possibility of a tax override to help restore funding, however Chairperson McCarthy said that the economic climate makes it a bad year to request a tax override.

“How do we look at raising funds? How do we look at increasing our bottom line without cutting teachers? Because without teachers you don’t have education,” asked one parent. Mr. Gordon said that one method of raising revenue is renting out school space. The parents then suggested possible ways to reduce costs – such as by “going paperless” in terms of school-parent communication and using doctoral students who need to accrue hours for certification to provide free psychological services. Another suggestion was asking Tabor Academy if the school could provide general assistance – such as educational support staff – to the school.

“I think any ideas that people come forward with are very beneficial,” said Mr. Scott. “Hopefully more people will be at the town meeting when these things come to light, put up a stink, and say we need to find money, whether it be from taxes or other funds out there in the town.”

Following Mr. White’s discussion on the budget, Ms. McCarthy said it was the “worst budget I have seen,” but “the best presentation.”

The school then discussed a request from the South Coast Community Church to reduce its rental fee from $380.85 to $250. The school board chose not to approve the request given the custodial and utility fees for each usage and the fact that the market rate for such a space is $525. Also, Ms. Winters noted it would set a “bad precedent” and signal other organizations to ask for decreases if it were approved.

In the building subcommittee report, Mr. Gordon discussed plans by the Volunteers at Sippican Elementary to build a new playground; the school would contribute to half the fees, which is $4,900. VASE is slated to present the plan in further detail at a March 10 meeting. Mr. Gordon also mentioned a pending proposal by Chris Collins to fix leaks in the school’s rotunda area.

Mr. Scott briefly discussed the draft of the Old Rochester Regional FY 11 budget and said, “it wasn’t any easier than this … all of the fat will be cut out next year.”

In his report on the Tri-Town Education Fund, Mr. Pateakos mentioned that the Taste of the Town will occur on June 18 and two committees – alumni and communications – were formed with the united goal of “getting more donations.”

The school committee adjourned at 9:07 pm.

By Laura Pedulli

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11:59:29 pm Roadway Acceptance Hearing Scheduled

Categories: Mattapoisett

A regular meeting of the Mattapoisett Planning Board was called to order by Chairman Thomas Tucker on March 1, 2010 at 7:30 pm. Also present were Board members John Mathieu, Robert B. McNamara and Karen Field.

The first order of business for the evening was the Roadway Acceptance Plan, regarding Park Place and Park Lane, submitted by N. Douglas Schneider and Associates. Mr. Schneider began by updating the Board on recent developments on the roadway development and by requesting their help on “figuring out the next step.” The developers for the project are interested in having the road plan be accepted by the town, and would like to submit a petition to get on a Town Meeting warrant. The annual Town Meeting is scheduled for May 10, 2010.

A request was made for a Roadway Acceptance hearing, which the Board members decided could be on April 5, 2010 at 7:30 at the Mattapoisett Town Hall.

Board member Karen Field asked a question regarding the impact on abutters to the land. Highway Surveyor Barry Denham answered this question by stating that “all abutters signed off on this before any paperwork was submitted to the Selectmen.” The landowners need to unanimously support this project in order for it to be considered.

Mr. Schneider also asked that one final lot in the subdivision, which was never released, be released in order to move forward with the project. A motion was made by Board member John Mathieu, seconded by Ms. Field and passed unanimously.

Mr. Denham then approached the Board with a presentation of an unnamed cul-de-sac in a subdivision, which Mr. Denham asked the Board to consider. Mr. Denham said that a “gentleman wanted to request a waiver for construction in a wetland” and that the cul-de-sac in question would not be built as proposed. Mr. Denham continued, “when you layout a cul-de-sac, the land shouldn’t be used for another purpose.”

Chairman Tucker responded: “we can take this into consideration when it comes before us. This really hasn’t come before us. We’ll keep a file for when it does come up.”

Before the minutes from the February 1, 2010 meeting could be approved, a few spelling errors were corrected, and then the motion to accept the minutes passed unanimously.

The mail was reviewed, and a motion to adjourn was then made by Board member John Mathieu at 8:01 pm.

By Sarah K. Taylor

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11:59:22 pm Mattapoisett Considers Farmers’ Market

Categories: Mattapoisett

When Mother Nature starts throwing a few mild days our way, and when those tiny shoots of daffodils and crocuses make their appearance, our thoughts turn to summer. Thanks to the influx of “locavorism” – that is, love of locally grown food – those summer thoughts include heirloom tomatoes and strolls through a well-stocked farmers’ market.

Although the Tri-Town has enjoyed its own farmers’ market for several years now at the Plumb Corner location in Rochester, Mattapoisett is hoping to collaborate with the Rochester Market to share vendors and distribute in a location that is central to the Tri-Town and has easy access to the highway. Right now, the eyed location would be Old Rochester Regional, since it is centrally located on Route 6 and near 195.

Although the season is quickly approaching, Mattapoisett Town Administrator Michael Gagne is hoping to “hustle” to get the farmers’ market up and moving. The Mattapoisett Board of Selectmen has been receptive to the plans as well. One of the first steps is getting approval of school usage for a farmers’ market at an Old Rochester Regional School Committee meeting.

Proposed locations for the farmers’ market included Old Hammondtown – even the town wharf was considered for a farmers’ market location at one point, but it was crossed off the list since the parking is difficult there and it was thought that the farmers’ market could conflict with all the other activities that occur at Shipyard Park. Besides being a central location for the Tri-Town, ORR has been considered an ideal spot since it has ample parking space and room for vendors to set up.

School locations for farmers’ markets have proven to be ideal for other markets, like the Fairhaven market, which sets up on Sunday mornings on the Fairhaven High School lawn. The schools are town property and have more than enough room for the traffic that a farmers’ market usually draws.

According to Southeastern Massachusetts Agricultural Partnership (SEMAP) executive director Jay Coburn, the proposed Mattapoisett Farmers’ Market would be the 48^th market in the Southeastern Massachusetts region. SEMAP, which was started in 1998 as a business resource for local farmers, strongly advocates for farmers’ markets and CSAs (community-supported agriculture). A CSA is a co-operative agreement between farmers and consumers, where the consumer buys a “share” of the crop, and takes a portion of the farm’s bounty for that year. Both CSAs and farmers’ markets support local agriculture and local industry.

Meredith Ciaburri, owner and operator of the Rochester-based bakery the Artisan Kitchen, started the Rochester Farmers’ Market six years ago to meet the growing interest in local food and agriculture. The Rochester Farmers’ Market is located at Rochester’s Plumb Corner on Saturday mornings from 8:00 am to noon. Ms. Ciaburri has been working with the Mattapoisett Board of Selectmen to help facilitate a Mattapoisett market that would service Tri-Town farmers and consumers alike. Ms. Ciaburri describes the Mattapoisett Market as “an exciting prospect.”

For Mattapoisett, this move would be right in line with their latest interest in supporting local agricultural industry. Mr. Gagne has also been working with the Board of Selectmen to establish an agricultural commission in town. All of these moves strengthen support of SEMAP’s campaign to “Buy Local, Buy Fresh.”

By Anne O’Brien-Kakley

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11:59:17 pm ORR Committee Presents District Budget

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A regular meeting of the Old Rochester Regional School District was called to order by Chairman Peter Bangs on February 25, 2010 at 6:30 pm in the ORR Media Center. Also present were committee members Robin Rounseville, Virginia Beams, Joseph Scott, John Russell, Paula Meere, Paul Silva and Nick Decas. Additional attendees included ORRHS Principal Michael Devoll, Superintendent Douglas White, School Business Administrator Kathleen Isernio and Director of Student Services Theresa Hamm.

Dr. Bangs announced that the meeting’s primary purpose is “information sharing” as it reviews the FY 11 preliminary budget.

Superintendent Mr. White then presented the proposed budget for FY11 for the district. The draft budget is funded at $15,321,458, which is a 1.10% increase over FY10 levels. A level-service budget would have cost $15,606,383 or require an increase of 3.01% over FY10 spending. Mr. White said the new budget – which requires $459,772 in cuts – represents “significant changes to how we deliver services.”

Ms. Isernio noted that next year, the regional transportation reimbursement from the state may change. She said that unlike last year, the budget does not provide a built-in cushion for unexpected transportation increases. Thus if the state lowers transportation reimbursement from 56% to 29% - which it has considered – the school district budget could get hit.

During the presentation, Principal Devoll discussed expanding School Choice to raise $120,000 in revenues for district schools. “Our focus for next year would be to open up 15 additional spots school-wide and not limit them to a single grade,” he said, which would equal 24 total out-of-district students. “The reason I feel we can do that is because we have space in our schools and, quite frankly, the ability to bring in that revenue saves us [from cutting] teachers. We feel we are proud of our school [district] as a place students want to come,” he said. According to Mr. White, the sending district compensates $5,000 for each student; six students from ORRHS attend schools in other districts.

Other revenue sources include new student parking fees. According to Mr. Devoll, more than half of schools in Massachusetts charge for parking. Therefore, the budget includes a $50 parking fee for students wishing to park their vehicles. Given that 25 percent of students opt out of purchasing the tag, Mr. Devoll estimates that ORRHS would sell 138 parking tags for an additional $7,800 in revenue “if it checks out that way.”

The budget also proposes higher student activity fees, including fees for music and sports, and includes projected revenue from booster club fundraisers. Specifically, the school would charge $100 for students participating in one or more extracurricular activities and $225 for students participating in sports. Other proposed revenue includes operation and capital assessments, Chapter 70 state aid, and regional transportation state reimbursement. The proposed amount of all revenue for the school district is $16,353,623. Mr. White did note the numbers are based on the state budget proposal, which is not set in stone.

The presentation also offered a historical perspective on cuts to ORR District since 2003, which include the loss of science, art, physical education, business, library and computer lab teachers and paraprofessionals at the high school, and the elimination of eight positions district-wide, including technology coordinator, assistant superintendent, and early childhood coordinator.

Dr. Bangs said that the budget represents “a fairly substantial cut to programs. The state of the schools is very different since 2003.” He added: “I feel we are reaching a position where we are a starving human eating its own flesh to keep itself alive.”

Dr. Bangs said that the committee is investigating full regionalization of all Tri-Town schools to help save money in the future. The differing compensation for health insurance for school employees across towns was noted as a major obstacle. Rochester and Marion pay for 50% of health insurance costs, while Mattapoisett compensates 75% of such costs.

Dr. Bangs also said that capital needs at the region are not being met. “We are quite willing to devise a means that the capital budget is outside the control of the school budget and in the control of some other body,” he said. “Our $50 million investment [in our building] is deteriorating – we need to fund the capital needs here. “

In response to suggestions that the school reopen the teacher union contract with the aim of a salary freeze, Dr. Bangs said that it is unlikely that teachers would forgo their raises to provide supplies and professional development. “We have no hook,” he said, noting that this year’s budget does not include personnel elimination. However, he said, next year that could change. “The current contract started before the world changed. Next year when we negotiate the contract, the world will be different,” he said. “If further cuts are necessary [next year], personnel will be cut.”

“Next year, we will have at least $450,000 of bodies to cut from the budget,” Mr. Silva added. “You do the math… that is a significant number of employees, and they are not part-time employees, they are full-time teachers.”

The discussion turned to town assessments. Rochester Town Administrator Richard LaCamera, who was sitting in the audience, said that the school committee and the towns are supposed to vote on the assessment and present it to the town. “My recommendation is to ask the region to allocate the state aid based on the student population,” he said. In response, Mr. Silva said if a problem is detected on how assessments are calculated, then the school should go back to 2003 and retroactively fix the problem. Ms. Isernio had said that the allocation formula for the assessments uses the same percentage in its formula since 2003.

“The school committee has no interest in the battle between three towns on how assessment is done,” said Dr. Bangs. However, Mr. White promised to review the matter to the satisfaction of the three towns.

The school board adjourned at 7:35pm.

By Laura Pedulli

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11:59:12 pm Selectmen Propose School Regionalization Committee

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A joint meeting of the Tri-Town Boards of Selectmen was called to order by Marion Chairman Stephen Cushing in the Media Room of Old Rochester Regional High School on February 25, 2010 at 7:45 pm. Present from Marion were Selectmen Jonathan F. Henry and Roger F. Blanchette in addition to Town Administrator Paul Dawson. Representatives from Mattapoisett included Town Administrator Michael Gagne and Selectmen Paul Silva and George Randall. Additional attendees included Rochester Selectmen Naida Parker and Richard Nunes and Rochester Town Administrator Richard LaCamera.

Mr. Gagne began the meeting discussing regionalization efforts for trash and recycling. He said he is putting forward a request for quotation (RFQ) for trash services for the three towns. In addition, he is seeking a separate RFQ for recycling services since recycling services are set to expire in Mattapoisett on June 30. He said the effort to consolidate services also may require the setting aside of a corporate highway yard for recycling and garbage trucks to reduce fuel costs. A working draft on regionalization of these services will be sent to each community by March 1, Mr. Gagne said.

“Vendors are good at getting it done as quickly as possible,” Mr. Gagne said, adding that the ability to use fewer trucks would represent “big savings.” The Selectmen then compared which days recycling and trash services currently serve their areas and all agreed there is ample opportunity to consolidate trips. Mr. Gagne said he hopes quotes will be in hand by mid-April to choose a vendor and decide how to proceed.

The board then discussed the “appetite” for school district regionalization for the savings potential. The need to have “everyone treated the same,” as Mr. LaCamera put it, may present the greatest roadblock to negotiations. Specifically, the board acknowledged that the discrepancy in health insurance reimbursement – Marion and Rochester employees are reimbursed at 50% and Mattapoisett is reimbursed at 75% – may prevent regionalization from happening. “Regionalization depends on the unions,” Mr. Nunes said.

Mr. Silva said that school regionalization does not just translate into financial benefits. Students from all towns would receive a “better education,” he said, because more emphasis would be placed on giving children from each town a similar education so they are on equal footing when entering junior high.

The board then decided to create a committee to study school regionalization. This committee would include a total of eight members: one representative from the selectmen from each town (3), one school board committee representative from each town and the regional school district (4), and the Superintendent as ex-officio (1). In response to Mr. Nunes’ ongoing concern that health insurance reimbursement would stop regionalization talks in its tracks, Mr. Silva expressed confidence that “it can be done… it would happen over a period of time.” He also said that the newly formed committee could form a subcommittee dedicated to resolving potential deal breaker issues like health insurance reimbursement.

Mr. Gagne also mentioned avenues to explore to reduce school costs. He said using organizations such as the Council on Aging to transport children to the central point for the Bristol Aggie Bus is worth exploring. “You’d be surprised how much money you can save,” he said. He also recommended working with other districts to transport special education students using the same vehicles.

General efforts to share resources for cost savings also were discussed. Mr. Gagne said that when it “comes to the small stuff,” towns should work at the “grassroots level” to consolidate resources. For example, Mr. Gagne noted that Mattapoisett borrows Fairhaven’s VAC truck eliminating a need to purchase a new one. He said “bigger stuff” should be left to boards and committees.

The board set its next meeting date for April 22 at 7:00 pm. The committee adjourned at 8:35 pm.

By Laura Pedulli

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11:59:04 pm Community Events at ORR

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This week and the following month are filled with community events at Old Rochester Regional. Just last week, parents of both incoming freshmen and of current students were invited to the Parent Information Night, where the department heads were available for a question and answer session. There was also an information night for parents of sophomores and juniors about the college application process and outside testing. Both of these nights were in preparation for the course selection process, which is beginning this week with teacher recommendations.

Teachers will be dedicating class time to initialing student cards with their class recommendations, so students should have their green cards with them for the entire week. Starting next week, students will go down to the computer lab in their studies to enter their course selections into the computer. Students who do not have a study should not be alarmed about going to the computer lab; there is going to be an all-call over the intercom to make sure that everyone has the opportunity to input their course selections.

There’s a slight change to the course selection process this year. Students will have until June to work with their schedules for the next year, so students are reminded to take time in picking their classes. In fall, students will not be able to drop a class or change class level after the first term. As the guidance counselors have been saying, even now in the third term they are still receiving requests from students to change their level. Next year, this will not be tolerated. Schedules will be finalized prior to the next year.

On Friday, March 5, Old Rochester Regional will be hosting its annual Winter Blues Festival. The event, open to the general public, is scheduled for 6:00 pm in the cafeteria. Not only have there been film submissions from the high school students in the various categories, but Mr. Andree from the junior high has submitted some films from his archive of student projects. Old students of the green team are especially encouraged to attend the festival in case one of their projects is shown.

Parents who are interested in participating in a free educational program for “Management of Alcohol and Other Substance Abuse Among Adolescents” on Saturday, March 13 at Mass. General Hospital should contact the assistant principal, Mr. Parker, for more information.

It is almost time for the Old Rochester Regional Drama Club to present its spring production, which is RENT . The shows are scheduled for March 18 through March 21. The shows start at 7:30 pm, and the matinee on March 21 starts at 2:00 pm. ORR students who buy tickets at school to the Thursday performance get a discount of five dollars. For all other shows, tickets for students and seniors are $12.00 while tickets for adults are $15.00. Tickets can be bought at the door, although students can only get the Thursday discount if they buy the tickets from the front office.

On Wednesday, March 31, Old Rochester Regional will be hosting a Health and Wellness Night in the gym from 5:00 to 8:00 pm. Those who attend will be able to meet Amanda Kelly, the 2009 Miss Massachusetts, and Jay Kruger from “The Biggest Loser.” There will be five demonstrations: one for a new aerobic activity called Zumba, the ORR dance team, karate, KikFit Cardio, and Pilates. Over twenty vendors will have stations set up around the gym, and there will be three health-related seminars. There will also be opportunities for visitors to find health services such as the Southcoast Health Van and Tri-Town Public Health Services.

Congratulations to Emily Bungert, a junior at Old Rochester Regional who has won the school Poetry Out Loud competition. Poetry Out Loud is a national poetry recitation competition that also awards scholarships to the winners. Ms. Bungert will be representing ORR at the regional Poetry Out Loud competition at the Cape Cod Cultural Center in Yarmouth on March 6. ORR wishes Ms. Bungert the best of luck and hopes that she will be able to represent us at the state competition at the Huntington Theater in Boston, which is scheduled in later March.

By Anne Smith

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03:21:09 pm Letters to the Editor

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The views expressed in the “Letters to the Editor” column are not necessarily those of The Wanderer, its staff or advertisers. The Wanderer will gladly accept any and all correspondence relating to timely and pertinent issues in the great Marion, Mattapoisett and Rochester area, provided they include the author’s name, address and phone number for verification. We cannot publish anonymous, unsigned or unconfirmed submissions. The Wanderer reserves the right to edit, condense and otherwise alter submissions for purposes of clarity and/or spacing considerations. The Wanderer also reserves the right to deny publication of any submitted correspondence.

To the Editor:

The Blue Book, the handy Tri-Town telephone and advertising resource published by the League of Women Voters of Marion, Mattapoisett and Rochester, is going green and moving toward biennial printing!

When first printed in 1978, The Blue Book was 116 pages long and the result of countless hours of volunteer time by LWV-MMR members. The ’09/’10 edition, our 25th, has 272 pages, was mailed to over 8,000 households, and required a team of four paid staff to publish. Producing the book demands intense attention to detail and a knowledgeable staff with skills in advertising, finance, and desktop publishing.

The latest Blue Book was supported by 80 pages of advertising and the League is grateful to the many businesses that have been the backbone of the book’s financing over the years. But the time has arrived to consider the environmental impact of publishing annually and also the demand it puts on the production staff. Therefore, the League has decided to return to the 1978 premise of publishing every other year. Our intention is to continue to produce an accurate, informative and useful resource for Marion, Mattapoisett and Rochester, only less frequently.

Special thanks are due to Sharon Bartholomew, Kelli Hahn, Grace Hatch and Linda Schuessler, our most recent team, for the dedication and proficiency that they have given to this project. We look forward to matching their high standards in our next edition. In the meantime, we encourage everyone to keep the handy ’09/’10 book by their telephone for both residential and advertisers’ information in the coming year.

Nancy Braitmayer, of Marion Co-ordinator

League of Women Voters/Marion-Mattapoisett-Rochester

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02:18:12 pm ORR News

Categories: News

Old Rochester Regional High School is proud to announce that senior Jean B. Smith is a finalist in the 2010 competition for National Merit Scholarships. All finalists will be considered for National Merit Scholarships.

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