News Submission Policy
The Wanderer gladly accepts any and all news and press release items from local non-profit organizations for publication on a weekly basis. The deadline for submission of said items is Monday at 12:00 noon for publication in that week's edition. Due to the increasing number of submissions, however, publication of press material is never guaranteed. The Wanderer will make every effort to publish timely news items and announcements as the subject warrants and as often as spacing allows. All press material must be submitted in writing via fax (508-758-4845), e-mail (newsatwanderer.com) or mail (The Wanderer, P.O. Box 102, Mattapoisett, MA 02739), and must be typed or word-processed. We cannot accept any handwritten material or news items via telephone, no matter how brief.
Photographs of area events and newsmakers are also accepted and encouraged. The Wanderer accepts well-lit and clearly-defined color or black and white photographs for publication provided they include a brief summary of the event or subject. Due to processing and/or cropping requirements, we cannot return photographs. Please make sure you retain your negatives or have a copy made before submitting photographs for publication. Like news items, the deadline for photos is Monday at 12:00 noon and the publication of photographs is also subject to spacing constraints and therefore cannot be guaranteed.
All submitted copy is subject to alterations and/or condensation as space allows at the editor's discretion. All submissions become the property of The Wanderer and cannot be returned, therefore please make sure to retain copies and/or negatives before submitting anything for consideration.
Letters to the Editor
To the Editor:
Through no one's fault but the glaciers, the soils on Mattapoisett Neck are mix of compact till and Volkswagon-sized boulders that are largely as absorbant as a brick. These "C" and "D" soils are not made to absorb and treat the volume of sewer water we generate today. The wastewater we put into the Neck, that ultimately finds its way to the Bay, is substantial. Some of that water avoids treatment altogether thanks to silently failed systems.
In 1994 the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) adopted new standards for on-site sewage disposal systems (Title V). This was the beginning of the new Massachusetts Mound Builders. Homeowners went into shock when they realized the cost, hardship and property degradation that the Title V changes forced upon them when they went to sell or improve their homes. Elevated systems, built high enough to avoid groundwater, became commonplace as a work-around to the new state code regulations. Spending $30,000 or more is now standard practice for septic "repairs" in difficult areas. And, these ceremonial mounds have not been in place for the 20 to 30 years their predecessors may have functioned for. Many will fail prematurely without delicate treatment because of their elevated condition.
Some on the Neck have new systems and don't want to face the burden of a cost perceived as completely unnecessary. Others feel that whatever has been perking beneath their lawn for twenty to thirty or more years will be there for an equal duration -- so why bite? No one, myself included, wants to pay for the Neck to be sewered; it's not like paying for a new garage or an addition that you can look at every day an justify the cost.
But with any long vision, septic systems on the Neck, current and future, are a Band-Aid. Sewer service is forever. Once installed, nobody with a house on the Neck now will be forced into a surprise, mid-winter sewer "repair" (repair sounds good but is nearly always means a whole new system) with an exorbitant price tag. As much as I would like to avoid the cost of the sewer, a low or no-interest loan spread over twenty years is a preferable option to facing a spontaneous failure, or the angst, uncertainty and expense added to a property transfer. I wish I could finance more items at 0 percent.
The specter of over-development of the Neck is daunting. Yet, only a finite number of stubs will be provided for the existing subdivided parcels. The pervasive wetlands (thanks to those miserable soils), as well as current zoning requirements will limit what can be built -- the Neck will not become rows of homes from the Harbor to Brandt Cove.
Town sewer is forever. It will cost user fees, yes, and hook-up expenses. But those pale in comparison to system replacement costs. It will spare existing homeowners from building expensive, devaluing mounds -- forever. It will contain our wastewater and take it away from the Mattapoisett waters for proper treatment -- forever. It will make it easier to sell or otherwise convey your home -- forever. It will enhance the value of your property -- forever. It will take twenty years at low or no interest to buy this security. To not get sewer for the Neck at this opportunity will leave all residents vulnerable to costly surprises and whatever Title V changes DEP imparts on us -- forever.
Sincerely,
Brian Butler
Mattapoisett
To the Editor:
As an emergency physician, I treat patients suffering from gastroenteritis all too often. I regularly see the nausea, vomiting and diarrhea of the viral type "stomach flu" and, even worse, bacterial dysentery, which includes all of the above plus abdominal pain, fever and bloody diarrhea.
As a student of medicine, I have learned the uncomfortable fact that people get these illnesses from actually ingesting the viruses and bacteria that are shed from the sick person when they use the bathroom. That is why hand washing is so often stressed in the health care setting.
As a resident of Mattapoisett Neck, I know that the runoff from non-Title V septic systems drains into the ground around our wells and from there into Buzzards Bay, as evidenced by the regular closing of beaches after heavy rains and the persistent closing of shell fishing beds in the harbor. When our children swallow a bit of seawater, the hard fact is, because Mattapoisett Neck does not have a sewer system, they ingest the viruses and bacteria that come from our sick neighbors and, if they ingest enough, they will be sick the next day also.
That same bacteria, viruses and household chemicals also infect our wells and drinking water every day due to the outdated septic systems all around us. The Neck will never have town water, but we can have a sewer system to protect our children, our neighbors and ourselves if we reject the fear-mongering, half-truths and blatant falsehoods recently printed in the local press and just think this through with clear minds, evaluating all the critical issues, not just the financial costs.
I apologize for being so graphic, but the truth is the truth. I have a house full of children and grandchildren this week, here to enjoy the last days of summer and each other's company. I want them to continue to be happy and healthy and would be devastated if the water from my well or the seawater from the beach made them sick for even a moment -- especially since all of us on the Neck now have it in our power to prevent this from ever happening to our families again.
Yes, the sewer project is expensive. But what price can we place on our health or the health of our children?
Sincerely,
Joanne D. Cameron, M.D.
Mattapoisett
To the Editor:
To the people of Mattapoisett Neck who are asking, "Why do we need a sewer?" the answer is really very simple: Our existing septic systems are continuing to pollute the Mattapoisett River, our harbor, and Buzzards Bay as well as threatening the safety of the water we, our children and our neighbors consume every single day.
The overall health of these bodies of water continues to decline every year. It has been proven that failing septic systems are the number one cause of this persistent pollution. As recently as this past week, many local beaches were closed as a result of high bacteria counts after heavy rains. How ironic that those beach closures were listed in the same publications as a letter to the editor strongly opposing the sewer expansion? How many times and in how many different areas of Mattapoisett has shellfishing been closed due to septic runoff? It is no secret that we have a continuing problem here and denying it will not make it go away.
The current Title V regulations were put in place to prevent this type of pollution. Any property in Massachusetts changing ownership requires a certified inspection and upgrading of failed systems within two years. Many of these systems will require expensive renovations to pass, and still others are destined to become tight tanks, requiring frequent, expensive and inconvenient pumping. As the technology of wastewater treatment evolves, more efficient and more expensive systems might be required by Title V.
It has been pointed out that the cost of the Mattapoisett Neck sewer expansion project has doubled in five years. What has not been so prominently discussed is that the cost of privately-maintained septic systems has also increased significantly over time. What might the cost be of replacing your system in another five or ten years? It is quite conceivable that the DEP would, in a future response to the continuing prevalence of septic-generated pollution in the Bay, set a deadline for Title V compliance for all neighboring communities. Imagine if you were told that everyone would have to comply within two years to the new, more expensive standards!
The sewer expansion project offers us the opportunity to do what five or six other areas of Mattapoisett have wisely chosen to do before us, and by overwhelming margins. We must accept responsibility for our contribution to the pollution of our home waters and take this critical step to prevent further fouling of our river, our harbor, our bay and our drinking water by our own wastewater, detergents and household chemicals. This is our one shot at securing the last remaining sewer capacity owned by the town. We won't have a second opportunity.
Another belief that has prevented some from supporting the sewer project is that it will cause unprecedented growth on the Neck, and that virtually every undeveloped lot will soon have a house on it. This is simply not true. The facts show that in other areas of town where sewers have been constructed, little new home growth has occurred. According to our Building Inspector, from 1995 to 2008, the number of permits for new dwellings has been consistent at 23-25 per year, if the Route 6 condos and the Bay Club are excluded, despite the installation of sewers in many areas of town. The Board of Health agent has estimated that there have been only five or six new houses allowed to be built as a result of sewer installation during this entire period.
Instead, areas which have installed sewers have seen a marked increase in the number of building permits issued for remodeling of existing homes because those renovations would have triggered Title V inspections and presumably failures prior to the sewer. The results have yielded nicer properties and increased tax revenues to the town. Even with the sewer, these remodelings still have to comply with the current zoning and conservation regulations that prevent them from being excessive. If you don't believe this, I urge you to take a ride through Crescent Beach, Brandt Beach, or Pease's Point, and see if you think these neighborhoods look different. Ask the people that live there how the sewer has affected them, and if their lives and properties are better or worse as a result. Let the facts and history help you decide, and not the baseless "what if's" we are all reading about in the press.
If you are concerned regarding further development of land on Mattapoisett Neck, consider this: the sewer project will actually make development of our beautiful stretch of land and sea more difficult, rather than easier. With the sewer, each lot of buildable size or larger gets only one hookup stub, regardless of size. Without the sewer system, as is currently the case, a large parcel can be subdivided into multiple lots of buildable size, each with its own septic system. The installation of the sewer will actually reduce the number of potentially buildable lots, not increase them.
Economically this project also makes sense. It allows us the opportunity to completely turn our wastewater disposal problems and concerns over to the town. Mattapoisett is offering low-interest borrowing, and the town will be solely responsible for the future care and maintenance of the system. The current alternative of a Title V system is costly in itself, and requires permitting, engineering and construction costs, as well as expensive periodic maintenance costs. There are no low-interest loans to finance it, and it has a limited life span of about 20 years. At any time the DEP could propose a new standard; it's not unreasonable to think that Title VI might render a Title V system obsolete and again require an upgrade to the new standard. How about Title VII or Title VIII? Not only is the sewer a more effective end result, it will ultimately cost less and solve this problem forever.
There are many people that have already been forced to spend a lot of money on Title V systems and there are many others that might be fortunate to have enough land to construct a modern Title V system for less than the projected betterment costs. Those people feel like they're already doing their part in this problem. But they are a minority and must recognize that their neighbor's failing system has just as much impact on their drinking water, not to mention the health of the Bay, as their own. But what about the hundreds of other houses that only have the option of a sewer or a tight tank? I doubt if there is even one person with a tight tank that doesn't want the sewer. How much more money will be spent needlessly on Title V systems before the area has a sewer system that truly addresses this problem?
Please look at this project on a broader scale than just your own personal situation. Don't take the position that this is someone else's problem because your system works fine. The river, harbor and bay belong to all of us. They are a primary reason our area is such a desirable place to live, and why "Mattapoisett is Special."
We need to protect the beautiful place we call home, and this sewer project will go a long way in doing just that.
Sincerely,
David C. Cameron
Mattapoisett
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 greater 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.
Mattapoisett Women's Club
The Mattapoisett Women's Club kicks off its first meeting of the 2008-2009 club year with a Pot Luck luncheon Thursday, September 18 at 12:00 noon in Reynard Hall at the Mattapoisett Congregational Church on 27 Church Street. Please bring a favorite casserole, salad, or dessert, but more importantly, bring a friend. A sign-up sheet for a number of activities: Bridge, Garden Group, Literature, and the thought provoking Great Decisions series (Foreign Affairs/Policy) will be available. Come hear Program Coordinator Marcia Perez describe the tantalizing monthly program offerings from "Searching the Globe for Flowers" to learning the real deal on antiques from an expert, Castle Antique proprietor, Mary Roberts.
Marion Cultural Council
Forms are now available at the Elizabeth Taber Library in Marion for applying to the Marion Cultural Council for grants to fund projects related to the arts, humanities, and interpretative sciences. Completed applications should be sent to the Cultural Council at the Marion Town House, 2 Spring Street and must be postmarked by October 15, 2008. Instructions are included. Application forms may also be found online at www.massculturalcouncil.org.
FISH Coordinator Needed
FISH has been in Mattapoisett for many years, offering free of charge transportation to residents. One phone call and those who need transportation to appointments are taken care of. Due to the retirement of their longtime coordinator, they need someone to volunteer who can coordinate the trips. They have many drivers who offer their services, but someone is needed to let drivers know who needs them and where they are going. If you have a couple of hours a week (this can be done from home) and are willing to help out, please contact Friend of the Elderly Judy Anthony at 508-758-4110.
Mattapoisett Power Squadron
The Squadron Boating Course, a safe boating course for boaters of all types (the personnel watercraft operator; the hunter or fisherman; the skipper of a family cruiser; or the sailing enthusiast) and levels will be presented by the Mattapoisett Power Squadron at the Wareham Memorial Town Hall, 54 Marion Road (Route 6) in Wareham beginning on Tuesday, September 23 and continuing for the next six weeks. Registration will start at 6:00 pm, followed immediately at 7:00 pm by the first class.
While boating, any boater, from the canoeist or kayaker to the operator of a large cruising yacht, is subject to the same federal and state nautical laws and regulations, courtesies of the sea, and forces of nature. The Boating Course provides instruction in both Federal and Massachusetts boating regulations and, if required, can include Rhode Island regulations. Because recreational boating is a family activity, families are encouraged to attend as a group sharing a single text.
Revised and updated to address the latest requirements of the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators, the Boating Course introduces the student to and instructs in the fundamentals of safe boating. The Boating Course is NASBLA accredited and certified in states that require that you pass a safe boating education course before you can operate a vessel. In the Commonwealth any person under the age of 16 must pass an approved boating course and a state exam in order to operate a power driven vessel of any horse power in state waters.
Topics covered in the course include: boat handling under normal conditions, adverse conditions and in emergencies; types of boats; boating regulations, navigation rules, aids to navigation; piloting and the use of both paper and electronic charts; required and recommended equipment; lines and knots; VHF radio usage; and trailer boating. A MapTech CD-ROM of Electronic Charts is included with the course materials.
The $65 per student fee covers the text, CD-ROM, chart plotter, dividers, a piece of line and all incurred overhead costs. For family groups taking the course, with one supplied text, a reduced fee of $20 per additional person covers the costs of copies of homework, charts and overhead. The Squadron Boating Course serves as a valuable reference book for basic boating after the course is completed.
For more information, please call 508-763-5241, 508-994-0119 or 508-990-1898.
Marion Square Dance
The First Congregational Church of Marion will hold a Square Dance on Sunday, September 14 from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm in the Marion General Store Parking Lot (inside the Community Center if it rains). Youth, parents, grandparents, great grandparents are all welcome. A freewill offering will be appreciated. Please bring your lawn chairs. Cider and donuts will be served. Please RSVP by September 7 by calling 508-748-1053.
Mattapoisett Tree Plantings
The Mattapoisett Tree Committee is planning a fall planting of trees in the town in late October. In conjunction with the town's Tree Warden, Roland Cote, the committee is making recommendations of proposed planting sites and choice of the most desirable tree for each location.
In just this last year, several new trees were planted at the Police Station along Route 6, the Historical Museum, Center School and the War Memorial Park adjacent to the Library.
The Mattapoisett Tree Committee would like to thank Barry Denham and Roland Cote for their hard work in the preparation and planting of these trees.
Generally, each tree purchased and planted costs around $400 to $500. Plus there is constant care of each tree such as a water gator which holds 20 gallons of water for the first year's trees. Each tree needs yearly maintenance to maintain its viability, strength and growth.
The committee's goal is to have a fall and spring planting and make the necessary purchases at one time to help defray cost of transportation, etc. The more trees purchased at one time greatly minimizes the cost.
The committee is currently researching and prioritizing key sites for new trees or to replace one on town property. Their focus is to increase the tree canopy, better air quality and beautify Mattapoisett!
If you or your organization would like to make a donation, your contribution is much appreciated. Visit their website at Trees-for-Mattapoisett.org or call for more information Sandy Hering at 508-758-3008. Your contribution can be mailed to or dropped off at Town Hall in attention to the Mattapoisett Tree Committee.
Mattapoisett Rummage Sale
On Saturday, September 27, Two Great Sales, One Great Day Rummage and White Elephant Sales will be held from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon in the Mattapoisett Congregational Church parish hall, 27 Church Street. In addition to children and adult clothing, there will be shoes, purses, belts, scarves, undies, gloves, hats. Sweaters are a special item and there is a good variety of them available.
Also, this is your chance to get books, both hard- and soft-covered, for winter reading, so stock up now!
At the White Elephant tables will be what you want as well as what you need. Come and see and find just the item you've been looking for at a bargain price.
Notice that these sales are on September 27, and be sure to watch for special bargain moments!
Mattapoisett Sustainable Living
The Open Forum of the Mattapoisett Sustainable Living Club meets the second Tuesday of every month at the Mattapoisett Library meeting room at 6:30 pm. Please come to discuss environmental and sustainability issues in an informal gathering of like-minded neighbors. The idea is to be kind of like a book club, but oriented to sustainable living. The group's intent is to create a fun place to learn, share knowledge, get and give support for efforts in sustainability at the household and neighborhood level. For more information, please call 508-942-7183 or if you are interested, but can't make that time, please call 508 942-7183. The next meeting will be held on September 9, 2008.
Bourne Bride Restrictions
Pavement repairs on the Bourne Bridge spanning the Cape Cod Canal in Bourne will be performed during the week of September 3 through September 5. The work will begin, weather-permitting, on Wednesday, September 3 at 7:00 pm. Work will take place from 7:00 pm to 5:30 am on both Wednesday and Thursday evening and should be completed by Friday, September 5 at 5:30 am.
During the scheduled times for repair (evening and nighttime hours only), travel over the Bourne Bridge will be limited to one lane in each direction. No wide loads will be permitted to cross the span, and state and local police will be on duty at all times work is being performed to assist the motoring public. The bridge will be fully open to all traffic during daytime hours.
A message board, located at both approaches to the bridge, will keep motorists advised of work efforts.
Friends of the Elderly
The Annual Meeting of the Mattapoisett Friends of the Elderly will take place on Monday, September 8 at 3:00 pm in the Council on Aging (COA) offices in Center School. The public is invited to attend.
Saint Rose of Lima
Religious Education Registration for classes at Saint Rose of Lima Parish in Rochester will take place after the following weekend Masses, in the hall:
* Saturday, September 6 after the 5:00 Mass; and
* Sunday, September 7 after the 9:00 Mass.
Everyone must register at this time
Classes for Grades 1 and 2 begins Saturday, October 18; Grades 3 through 8 begins Wednesday, October 15; Confirmation II (second year) begins Wednesday, September 17; Confirmation I (first year) begins Wednesday, September 24. Fees are $50 per child or $125 per family.
Mattapoisett Library Program
The Mattapoisett Free Public Library is pleased to announce their fall program of storytimes.
Children who are two years old may attend a Toddler Storytime on Tuesday mornings from 10:15 until 10:45 am. The child and parent, or caregiver, will sit with the librarian for stories, books, songs and activities. Registration is required and will be limited to 10 children. Toddler Storytimes will begin on Tuesday, September 30 and will end on Tuesday, November 4.
Children who are three to five years old may attend a Preschool Storytime on Thursday mornings from 10:15 until 11:00 am. The child will sit with the librarian for stories, songs, and fingerplays for 30 minutes and then the parent, or caregiver, will join them to complete a simple craft project. Registration is required and will be limited to 15 children. Preschool Storytimes will begin on Thursday, October 2 and will end on Thursday, November 13.
Registration for both programs will begin on September 16 and can be done in person at the library at 7 Barstow Street in Mattapoisett or by phone at 508-758-4171. For additional information, please contact Linda Burke, Children's Librarian, at 508-758-4171.
Upper Cape Family Day
The Upper Cape Tech Alumni Association is sponsoring a Family Fun Day on the school grounds on September 13 from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. Alumni and their children will enjoy good food, fun games for all ages, moonwalks, face painting and children's prizes for competitive events. Baseball and volleyball games are planned between teachers and graduates. School tours will be available late that afternoon. The rain date is planned for September 14, 2008.
Cost of admission, which includes lunch, is $5 for adults and $2 for children ages 3 to 10. For further information, please contact msouza@uppercapetech.org or call 508-759-7711, extension 215.
Mattapoisett American Legion
The monthly membership meeting of the Florence Eastman Post 280 American Legion is held at the Legion Hall, 3 Depot Street in Mattapoisett, on the third Wednesday of each month.
This month's meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 17 at 7:00 pm. All members are invited to attend. They will review their most recent project, the annual Ned's Point Cookout for fellow veterans from the Brockton VA Hospital. Now that the Holy Ghost Grounds appear to be available for the 2009 clambake, they also need to discuss the advisability of once again planning the event with supporters from the Mattapoisett Fire Department. From a financial position, the clambake is absolutely essential for their continuation as a Legion Post and the sale of all 240 tickets is paramount.
The post will also review plans for the November Veterans Day observance which is fast-approaching. For more information or hall rental, please call 508-758-9311.
Rochester Library Book Sale
The Friends of the Joseph H. Plumb Memorial Library will hold their annual Book Sale on Saturday, September 6 from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Fellowship Hall of the First Congregational Church of Rochester, 11 Constitution Way. Donations will be accepted at the library during business hours, until 8:00 pm on Thursday, September 4. Please call the library at 508-763-8600 to arrange for donations to be picked up. Volunteers are needed to help with set-up on Friday, September 5 from 2:00 to 5:00 pm and on the day of the sale. Call the library to volunteer. Volunteers get first pick, and half off their purchases. The Friends will also hold a bake sale during the book sale. Please come to the library to sign up to donate a baked good for the sale. For more information, please call 508-763-8600, or email info@plumblibrary.com.
Women's Center Anniversary
The New Bedford Women's Center is marking its 35th Anniversary this fall. The 35th Anniversary Committee is searching for former Board Members, staff, volunteers and community partners who were involved with the Center over the years to include on our mailing list.
The 35th Anniversary Gala will be held on Thursday evening, October 16 at the Hawthorne Country Club in North Dartmouth. The Gala will include dinner, dancing to DJ Colleen Pina Garron, entertainment by Umoja and historical displays. Tickets are $50 per person and are available by calling The Women's Center at 508-996-3343.
The Women's Center (TWC) was established in 1973 as a grassroots, volunteer organization to help women in New Bedford. Today, TWC serves more than 4,000 women, children, families, and non-offending caregivers each year in 13 Southcoast communities. Programs include Domestic Violence Program, Sexual Assault Program, Child and Adolescent Trauma Program, Education and Outreach, Domestic Violence Specialized and Emergency Shelters, and the Housing Stabilization Program.
The Women's Center is the only domestic violence, rape crisis center and child trauma program in the Southcoast area offering comprehensive services to victims, survivors and the general public. TWC provides free, confidential, 24-hour, easily accessible services to all victims of domestic violence, sexual assault or child trauma who ask for help. Services include counseling, education, outreach, referrals and resources for victims of abuse, violence and trauma. If you need help or know someone who does, call the 24-Hour Hotline at 508-999-6636.
If you were involved with The Women's Center over the past 35 years and would like to be placed on the 35th Gala mailing list or would like tickets to the 35th Anniversary Gala, please call Rebecca McCullough in the Development Office at 508-996-3343, extension 25 or e-mail rmccullough@thewomenscentersc.com. For more information on The Women's Center, please visit www.thewomenscentersc.com.
Northeast Maritime Graduation
Northeast Maritime Institute of Fairhaven recently announced the inaugural graduation of eleven Bermuda MATE students from Northeast Maritime Institute's maritime training program on Friday, August 29 at 10:00 am. The ceremony was held at NMI's Fairhaven Washington Street location. NMI's sponsorship of this unique 12-week international program began in April, in Bermuda. NMI staff, local community members and several families from Bermuda, along with Bermuda officials, attended this milestone event in these young adults' lives.
Known as the Maritime Apprentice Training and Employment (MATE) program, eleven young adults from Bermuda have been engaged in a maritime education program along with traditional life skills that will enable them to seek entry level maritime employment in addition to the possibility of higher maritime educational opportunities. The students attended the following NMI courses: Basic Safety Training, Able Seaman, Proficiency in Survival Craft, Operator of Un-inspected Passenger Vessels, Master 100 ton upgrade, Radar Observer and Bridge Resource Management.
Several students have already been placed in maritime schools in locations such as Southampton England and locally here in New England. Several students will return to Bermuda this week while others will transition to Bermuda's tall ship Spirit of Bermuda for additional training and sea time. After some well deserved time off, students will be making applications for employment in Bermuda and around the globe. NMI will continue to support their interest in a maritime career though maritime career counseling.
Bermuda MATE student Melvin Martin said: "NMI and its educational value, along with its microcosmic feel has impacted not only the lives of those in the MATE program, but also every soul that will come into contact with us in the future."
Reflecting on the last 12 weeks, Eric Dawicki, President of NMI, said he "is extremely proud of the hard work, patience, and community service the students devoted to the Fairhaven community and to their own personal growth" and that "the traditions of the sea, maritime life and education, bring together human dynamics and interaction that uniquely qualifies these young adults to bring honor and leadership to Bermuda and her people." He noted that "there will be additional MATE programs scheduled for next year.
Northeast Maritime Institute is a maritime education and training facility based in Fairhaven, offering professional development for mariners from entry level, advanced training and continuing education. For further information and course schedules, please see their website at: www.northeastmaritime.com.
Mattapoisett Cultural Council
The Mattapoisett Cultural Council is pleased to announce that applications are now available at the Selectman's Office in the Town Hall for organizations or individuals interested in applying for grants for projects in the community-oriented arts, humanities, and sciences.
The Mattapoisett Cultural Council has set an October 15 deadline for organizations, schools and individuals to apply for grants that support cultural activities in the community.
These grants can support a variety of artistic projects and activities in Mattapoisett -- including exhibits, festivals, short-term artist residencies or performances in schools, workshops and lectures.
The Mattapoisett Cultural Council is part of a grass-roots network of 329 local councils that serve every city and town in the state. The program is the largest, most decentralized one of its kind in the United States. The state legislature provides an annual appropriation to the Massachusetts Cultural Council, which then allocates funds to each local council.
Please contact Rebecca McCann, Mattapoisett Cultural Council Chairman, at ramcann@aol.com for specific guidelines and information. Application forms and more information about the Local Cultural Council Program are available on the web at: www.massculturalcouncil.org/applications/applications.html.
Volunteers are welcome to be a part of the LCC making decision for our towns' arts and education.
Rochester Police Fundraising
The Rochester Police Brotherhood is currently conducting their annual fundraising campaign. Each year the Rochester Police Brotherhood conducts a telemarketing campaign in the area to benefit local youth sports programs, scholarships for children at Old Rochester Regional High School, elderly Thanksgiving dinners, as well as Christmas trees and presents for needy families during the holiday season.
In order to complete this effort, the Rochester Police Brotherhood has hired All-Pro Productions, Inc. to conduct the fundraising and to produce a comedy night at the Plymouth Radisson on Saturday, October 4 at 7:30 pm. The comedy night has been extremely popular in the past and they are asking local residents to help out through personal donations and local businesses to help by placing advertisements in the playbill.
All-Pro Productions, Inc. is a paid fundraising company that receives 44 percent to cover the costs associated with the booking and production of the event, print-work, rental of office space, telephone and utility expenses, insurance and any other cost associated with the fundraising effort. An additional 29 percent is used to hire telemarketers and drivers to call for and pick up local contributions. The remaining 27 percent goes to the Rochester Police Brotherhood. They appreciate the overwhelming support they have received in the past and hope to count on the town's continued generosity.
Fairhaven Movie Series
The Millicent Library's Movie Night starts up again in September. Once a month on the first Monday night of the month (except for Labor Day in September) at 7:00 pm, the library will be showing films free to the public. The theme this time: anti-war films.
"All but one of these films are based on books written by war veterans," said Rob Gonsalves, who coordinates Movie Night. "William Wharton (A Midnight Clear) served in World War II. So did Joseph Heller (Catch-22). Humphrey Cobb (Paths of Glory) fought in World War I. Dalton Trumbo (Johnny Got His Gun) didn't serve, but he wrote his book after reading an article about a badly-disfigured soldier. So most of these stories were written by people who'd been there."
The series kicks off on September 8 with Paths of Glory (1957), a World War I drama starring Kirk Douglas and directed by Stanley Kubrick. The film explores the meaning of "cowardice" and "honor" in the context of combat.
Catch-22 (1970), directed by Mike Nichols and based on the famous novel by Joseph Heller, follows on October 6. Alan Arkin leads an all-star cast as Yossarian, a bomber pilot who confronts the circular logic of war: if you want to go up and fly bomber missions, you're insane and you don't have to fly; if you don't want to fly missions, you're sane and you have to fly. The movie is rated R for strong violence and brief nudity.
Johnny Got His Gun (1971), written and directed by Dalton Trumbo based on his novel, focuses on Joe Bonham (Timothy Bottoms), a soldier in World War I who has been hit by a shell and has lost all his limbs and his eyes, ears, mouth and nose. He struggles to communicate despite his injuries. The screening of this little-seen parable (clips from which turned up in Metallica's "One" video) will be November 3. The movie is rated R for brief nudity and language.
The Movie Night series will end for the year with a Christmas movie of sorts. A Midnight Clear (1992), starring Ethan Hawke and Gary Sinise, is about a truce between American and German soldiers in World War II as Christmas approaches. The movie will be shown on December 1 and is rated R for combat violence and profanity.
All showings begin at 7:00 pm sharp in the Millicent Library auditorium, accessible through the Walnut Street entrance.
Mattapoisett Lions Club
After another successful Harbor Days, the members of the Mattapoisett Lions Club are ready to start a new year. They meet on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month at the Mattapoisett Chowder House at 6:30 pm.
The Mattapoisett Lions Club is a group of dedicated men and women whose motto is "We Serve and have been serving the community for over 50 years." If you are interested in learning more about the club, please call Club President Joe Rego at 508-763-8707.
Fort Phoenix Emcampment
Two-hundred and thirty years ago, during the Revolutionary War, the British attacked the villages on the Acushnet River with about 4,000 troops landed from 36 transport ships. During the raid houses, ships and business places in New Bedford, Acushnet and Fairhaven were ransacked and burned. The fort at Nolscot Point in Fairhaven, now called Fort Phoenix, was destroyed by British troops. It took years for the local waterfront industries to recover from the raid of September 5 and 6, 1778.
On Saturday and Sunday, September 6 and 7, members of the Fairhaven Village Militia and will once again remember the British attack during a weekend encampment at Fort Phoenix. Men, women and children dressed in period clothing will reenact life in 1778 and talk about the history of the fort. They will also be demonstrating campfire cooking, fire starting with flint and steel, musket ball casting, military drilling, loading and firing flintlock muskets and rifles, spinning wool and more. Visitors may try their hand at tomahawk throwing and children's games of the period.
One of the highlights of the weekend will be the firing of the fort's five cannons, scheduled for dusk, about 7:00 pm on Saturday. When fired near sundown, the cannons' plumes of flames and smoke make a spectacular sight.
The Fairhaven Village Militia, which is sponsoring the event along with the Fairhaven Office of Tourism, is made up of about a 25 members who are on duty at Fort Phoenix during the summer to pass along its unique history. The group's commander, Ellsworth Sylvaria Jr., is a descendant of Bartholomew West, whose home was burned by the British in 1778. Members Charles Cromwell and Wayne Oliveira were originally members of the Fourth Old Dartmouth Militia group that was started by the late Donald R. Bernard before the nation's Bicentennial. Other members have served as volunteer guides at the fort for the Office of Tourism. Members range in age from eight years to seventy-something.
"We have been holding September encampments at Fort Phoenix since 2003" said Tourism Director Christopher Richard. "Since we started this, thousands of people, including hundreds of school children, cruise ship passengers, visitors and local residents have visited us at Fort Phoenix. They find our presentations are both educational and entertaining. The militia also took part in the Fort Taber reenactment in 2007 and has camped twice in Mattapoisett."
"At the encampment, the group is depicting camp life during the Revolutionary War period," Mr. Richards added. "There will be regular demonstrations of musket firing, but there will be no large-scale battle re-enactments."
Both the cannon firing and the overnight encampment may be canceled in the event of rain. Weather permitting, the militia will be at the fort from 10:00 am Saturday until about 3:00 pm Sunday. For more information, call the Office of Tourism at 508-979-4085.
Sippican Choral Society
The Fall Semester of the Sippican Choral Society begins on September 8, with rehearsals held on Monday evenings at 7:30 pm in the Mattapoisett Congregational Church's Reynard Hall, 27 Church Street. No auditions are required and semester dues are $35 ($30 if paid by September 8). The Society is accepting new members until September 22, with Holiday Concerts planned for December 5 and 7, 2008. For more information, please e-mail osuch1@aol.com.
Marion Absentee Ballots
Absentee ballots are now available at the Marion Town Clerk's office for the State Primary Election, to be held at the Marion Music Hall, 164 Front Street, on Tuesday, September 16. Upon receipt of a written application, absentee ballots will be mailed to voters who are out of the area. Anyone wishing to vote prior to the election due to absence from town on Election Day, may vote in the office during regular business hours. Absentee ballots may be voted until 12:00 noon on September 15, 2008. For further information, please call the Town Clerk's office at 508-748-3502.
Fairhaven Unitarian Church
Beginning Sunday, September 7, the Unitarian Universalist Society of Fairhaven offers a life-span religious education program for children, teens and adults. Childcare is provided for infants and toddlers every Sunday morning. In addition, church school classes for preschoolers through high schoolers are held from 10:30 to 11:45 in Harrop Center, the religious education building at 47 Center Street.
"The Unitarian Universalist approach to religious education reflects an ongoing search for truth and meaning and a commitment to freedom of belief. Inspiration from all the religions of the world, as well as humanist teachings, science, and personal experiences of mystery and wonder are the basis for church school and adult programs," said Lisa Elliott, Director of Religious Education.
Using stories and songs, games and discussions, arts and crafts, service projects and celebrations, children and teens will have an opportunity to ask their own religious questions, evolve a sense of ethics, develop their own beliefs and learn to appreciate and deal with life issues. Programs for adults with be offered through out the year and are announced in the church newsletter. More information on this life-span faith development program is available at www.uufairhaven.org or by calling 508-992-7081.
Waterman School Reunion
The second Waterman School reunion will be held on Saturday, September 13 at the Rochester Memorial School. This is open to anyone who attended the Waterman School before it was replaced by Rochester Consolidated School in 1954. Years later it became the Memorial School.
Tickets are $20 per person. Checks should be made out to: Rochester Historical Society and sent to their address at: P.O. Box 171, Rochester, MA 02770. There will be a social hour from 11:00 am to 12:00 noon, when lunch will be served. The program will begin at 1:00 pm. Participants are asked to bring or mail any interesting or relative information. For more information, please call: 508-763-2724 or 508-763-5397.
Mattapoisett Town Clerk
Office Hours
The Mattapoisett Town Clerk's office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm; and on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month until 6:00 pm.
Dog Licenses
2008 Dog licenses are overdue. If you dog has not been licensed for the year 2008 please do so as soon as possible. The Natural Resource Officer is making reminder phone calls. The dog must have a current rabies on file. The fee is $10 for male or female, and $7 if the dog has been spayed or neutered. Dog owners 70 years of age or older are exempt from the fee but a current rabies must be on file. If you have any questions or concerns regarding licensing please call the office at 508-758-4103, extension 2.
Street Lists
The 2008 Annual Street Lists are now available in the Town Clerk's office for $7.50.
Mattapoisett Council on Aging
The Mattapoisett Social and Wellness Center, the location of the Mattapoisett Council on Aging is located at the Center School in Mattapoisett. Enter at the main entrance; parking is located across the street near the church carriage shed or in the school lot. The Center is open Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.
Please be reminded that with the Mattapoisett Council on Aging, as with all Councils on Aging, any and all are welcome to participate in activities or utilize services. The Mattapoisett Council on Aging works regularly with a vibrant group of individuals who are always willing to welcome a new face. Please call them at 508-758-4110 if you are interested in receiving our bi-monthly newsletter or, if you wish to learn more about our services.
Weekly Schedule
* Thursday, September 4 - 9:30 Public Health Nurse; 9:30 Bridge; 10:00 Old Colony Shopping; 1:00 Art Class;
* Friday, September 5 - 8:30 Yoga with Tricia; 8:30 Shaw's; 9:00 Weight Training; 10:30 Post Office/Library; Serve Orders Due for September;
* Monday, September 8 - 8:00 Water Aerobics; 9:00 SHINE; 10:00 Caning Workshop; 10:00 Garden Club; 12:00 Fitness with Karen; 1:00 Fairhaven Marts; 1:00 Scrabble;
* Tuesday, September 9 - 8:30 Stop and Shop; 9:00 Weight Training; 9:30 Public Health Nurse; 10:30 Tedeschi's; 1:15 FOE Crafts;
* Wednesday, September 10 - 8:00 Water Aerobics; 12:00 Fitness with Karen; 1:30-3:00 Bingo Pampered Feet All Day;
* Thursday, September 11 - 9:30 Public Health Nurse; 9:30 Bridge; 12:00 Welcome Autumn Lunch; 1:00 Cribbage; 1:00 Art;
* Friday, September 12 - 8:30 Yoga with Tricia; 8:30 Shaw's; 9:00 Weight Training; 10:00 Speaker: ABCs of Diabetes; 10:30 Post Office/Library.
COA-TV
Discover how fun and informative doing a local TV show can be. Join the Mattapoisett COA as they learn to produce their own television programs that highlight senior issues, concerns and activities. ORCTV provides the training at all ability levels and helps us to get a show going. No experience necessary and ORCTV provides all the equipment. If you are interested please contact Judy or Vanessa.
Upcoming Events
* Expanded Shuttle Service: Added to our weekly trips, on Tuesday at 10:30 we will go to Tedeschi's and on Fridays at 10:30 we will go to the Post Office and the Library. Call us a business day prior to arrange transportation. Van donation $1 per ride.
* Colony Place, Plymouth on Thursday September 4. Enjoy a day of browsing and shopping on your own at Talbots, Chicos, Coldwater Creek, DSW, Lane Bryan and many more stores. Plus over 10 major restaurants to enjoy lunch. Van donation $10.
* Welcome Fall Box Lunch: September 11 at 12:00 noon. Catered by Seaport Village. $6 at Center School. Sandwich choices and dessert included. Call to reserve/order your lunch.
* ABCs of Diabetes Management - Friday, September 12 at 10:00 am. Come with questions and learn the ins and outs of managing diabetes. Brought to us at the Center by the Rehabilitation Hospital of the Cape and the Islands.
* Mary Kay on Tuesday, September 23 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm (before the Passionada movie social). Join Sherry Rose Best for free skin care consultations, hand massages and more. Open to all.
* Film and Dessert Social on Tuesday, September 23 we'll enjoy the film Passionada, filmed locally, while we enjoy Portuguese desserts, in keeping with the film's theme, and ice cream. Free and open to all. Please RSVP by Friday, September 19. Transportation available. Please join us for this free afternoon with friends.
* As Time Goes By: Swinging Through The Decades on Tuesday, October 28. Join us in association with the Acushnet COA for a day which includes motorcoach to Boston, lunch at Lombardo's, fabulous show with 20 piece orchestra, singers & dancers recreating music from the 30s, 40s and 50s. Cost for all $66. What fun we'll have!
* Newport Playhouse and Cabaret presents Pajama Tops on Thursday October 30. $52 includes show, dinner buffet, cabaret and van. Space is limited, sign up early.
* Westport Farmer's Market on Saturday, September 13. Pick-up 9:30 am. Van donation $3. Coupons available for those who qualify.
* Boston Symphony Orchestra Open Rehearsals: All concerts are Thursday mornings at 10:30 am. Plan to enjoy this wonderful morning to enjoy the 2008-2009 BSO rehearsal. A $10 van donation, tickets ordered on your own. Call the COA for schedule and to reserve your spot.
* Bourne Scallop Festival: Friday, September 19. For $25 you get the van ride, Admission, Scallop Dinner, Soda. Come see the professional arts & crafts, show, home expo exhibits, entertainment and carnival rides. Call the COA to reserve your spot on the van.
* Yarmouth House Restaurant and Potato Chip Factory, Thursday September 25. Restaurant prices range from $9 salads to $20 steaks. Van will leave at 11:00 am. Donation $10. Join us for a lovely ride and good food.
* White Mountains, North Conway. Thursday November 6. Join us for Lunch and an afternoon of shopping at the Outlets in North Conway. Bus and Lunch is $65. Plan your Holiday shopping in tax-free New Hampshire.
* New York City, Friday November 21. Two tour options, shopping or Radio City Christmas show. Both very reasonably priced. Contact the COA for details and to sign up. First come first serve basis.
* The Nutcracker, Saturday December 6. We have discounted tickets for the 7:30 show at The Wang in Boston. We have Section C Mezzanine seating. The ticket and van ride is only $50. We have a limited number of tickets so plan early.
* Atlantic City, NJ. March 23-25, 2009. We leave Park 'n' Ride March 23 at 7:00 am and depart Atlantic City March 25 at 8PM to return. Motorcoach, two nights at Trump Taj Majal, $20 coin, $139 total, double occupancy. What a deal! Reserve this trip early!
Marion Council on Aging
The Marion Council on Aging (COA) would like to announce the following upcoming events:
The next 10-week session of senior stretch and exercise is now taking place from 9:30 to 10:30 am at the First Congregational Church in Marion. The class meets every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. The 10-week session for two days is $20 and $30 for three days a week. The first class is free and you may join at anytime.
The following trips are also scheduled. The Marion COA will provide transportation to the following and pick up will be at 12:30 pm:
* September 19: Cape Cod Potato Chip Factory and the Toad House classic sports cars in Hyannis;
* September 26: Kennedy Memorial Library Museum;
* October 10: Museum of Science in Boston;
* October 17: Wrentham Village to start your Christmas shopping;
* November 14: IKEA.
Pick up will begin at 12:30. A free will donation toward the cost of transportation is always appreciated. Any admission fees and parking fees are the responsibility of the participants.
Please call the Marion COA to reserve your spot on the van at 508-748-3570.
Rochester Senior Center
Upcoming Events
* The Pampered Chef Returns - Rochester's very own Pampered Chef, Linda Medeiros returns on Monday, September 8 to share a wonderful cooking demonstration here at the Senior Center! The theme this time is a surprise! Stay for the lunch at 12:00 noon once the demo is over and sample the results. You'll be glad you did! No charge for the program, but donations are appreciated. Please sign up in advance so that they have enough food for everyone that comes.
* Square Dancing Class - Join the Rochester Council on Aging (COA) on Monday nights, 6:30 to 8:00 pm, for our Square Dancing class. It's a fitness program that will fit your budget. Donation of $4 per class, paid directly to the instructor. All levels of expertise are welcome. The instructor is Paul Letourneau. Many of you may remember Paul from his years of teaching at the Rochester Grange. Come to just watch or dance. All ages and anyone is welcome!
* Thursday Night Line Dancing - Join the Rochester COA for two hours of line dancing on Thursday nights, from 6:30 to 8:30 with instructor Rose Daley, as she leads you in the most currant new dance steps. The first hour is for beginners, the second hour is an intermediate class. Why not stay for both. The cost for the night is $5.00, paid to the instructor.
* SERVE, New England Program - Registration before September 5 at the COA; SERVE pick up on Saturday, September 20. Request: If you can, please bring your own bags and/or boxes to the Saturday SERVE pick up. We need them! Thanks!
SERVE New England is a non profit food cooperative that offers monthly distributions of meats, produce and other grocery items at 30 to 50 percent discounts. It is open to all persons regardless of age, race or income level, and only requires participants complete 2 hours of volunteer service a month to qualify. Pick up a SERVE newspaper at the Senior Center to check out what is available.
* Visiting Local Book Author and Book Signing: Wareham resident and author, Bessie Childs Ciarcia, will visit the Rochester Senior Center on Tuesday, September 9 at 10:00 to share her accomplishments with you. Her two published novels are adult fiction; both are set in Massachusetts. We hope you will be able to attend this most interesting "novel" presentation. All are welcome!
* Stay Safe And Prevent Falls - Come join the Rochester Senior Center on Tuesday, September 16 at 10:00 to listen to a speaker from Senior Health Services Lifeline. They will explain how you can remain safe in your homes and how to prevent falls.All are welcome to attend.
* Wouldn't it be great if you could get your monthly prescriptions delivered to your house, all pre packaged and separated according to the time of day? Join the Rochester COA on Thursday, September 25 at 11:30, as Abby Dupont from Pharmahealth Pharmacy explains this new innovative opportunity for folks of all ages. All insurance plans accepted, and also all medications, including insulins, salves and drops. Come and hear all about it.
* Cobbs Luncheon - Join the Rochester COA on Friday, September 26 at 12:00 noon for the monthly Cobb's Luncheon. The main dish will be spaghetti and meatballs and salad. Please call the Senior Center to sign up in advance, so we can prepare enough food for everyone. As always, ther is no cost for the meal, but donations are gratefully accepted and appreciated. Anyone is welcome. The more, the merrier!
* Reverse Mortgage and Luncheon - Join us on Monday, September 29 at 11:30 am for a free catered Buffet Luncheon by Riccardi's Restaurant and complete presentation on Reverse Mortgages. Presented by COFED Savings Bank in Buzzards Bay. Learn the facts and benefits. All seniors are welcome. You must call the Senior Center by September 22 to reserve your spot. Limit is 75 people.
* Healthy Losers - This is a weight loss support group. There is no charge to join this Rochester Weight Management group. Just come! It meets every Monday from 1:30 to 2:30 pm. Members are weighed in weekly and information is shared weekly with attending members on experiences, healthy recipe choices, and other nutritional tidbits. No special diet is followed. It's whatever you're comfortable with. Please consider joining us! All ages and genders welcome.
* Volunteers needed - The Rochester COA needs a few strong volunteers who would be available on a Monday or Thursday afternoon, around 3:30, to help take down tables and move chairs in preparation for the evening dance classes. If you have a half hour to spare on either or both of these days, and would like to help us out, please let us know! We'd be so grateful.
They are also looking for a few good cutters with extra time to cut up coupons from the newspapers and advertisements. The suggestion was made recently to start a coupon file to have on hand in the lobby for those who could make use of the coupon discounts, particularly during these tough financial times! We need cutters, a person to file the coupons and make sure they are current and your ads/ newspapers to cut up. Lots of hands would make light work of this effort.
* Coupons Needed: Do you have store coupons you're not using? Please bring them in to the Senior Center to be clipped and filed ! Donating store coupons is a great way to help our Seniors save on their grocery bills. Seniors are welcome to take as many coupons as they can use from our new coupon file. Check back often.
* Stepping and Stretching - Join the Rochester COA on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1:00 to 2:00 pm for a fun-filled hour of easy exercise bending and stretching and building up your strength and improving your balance! Most exercises done from the comfort of your chair! This program is designed to improve physical conditioning, decrease risk of falling, and improve health, memory, mood, balance, bone density, flexibility and endurance. You go at your own pace. This program is made possible through a grant from Coastline Elderly Services, Inc. Donations are appreciated.
* Moving With the Oldies - This upbeat exercise class offers a low impact, moderate level cardio workout, followed by a dose of muscle toning and stretching to some of your favorite oldie tunes. Instructor Clare Hartford offers classes on Wednesday and Friday, and the time has changed to 9:00 to 10:00 am. Donation $4.
* SHINE Program - The SHINE is a program to assist seniors with their health insurance, Medicare and prescription coverage. Our state certified SHINE counselors, Jill Bodeau and Gordon Helm, will assist any senior at no cost with any insurance issue, private group plans, as well as Medicare and Mass Health. Please call the Senior Center to make an appointment to meet one-on-one with one of the counselors.
* Bingo - Feeling Lucky? Why not try your luck at our weekly Bingo game at the Senior Center? The crowd is building. It's held on Wednesdays from 12:30 to 3:30 pm with refreshment break. We play by the Senior Citizen Recreational Bingo Massachusetts laws. Price is 50 cents per card. No card limit. 25 cents a game. All money collected will be given in prizes that afternoon. Anyone is welcome to come!
* Computer Classes - will resume with instructor Charles Tate on Mondays at 1:00 beginning September 15. However, feel free to stop in at any time to use the computers at your leisure. They are all hooked up to the internet and the printer for you use.
* Large Print Library Books - The Plumb Library has brought a large print collection of library books at the Senior Center. Anyone who would like to sign out one of these books is welcome to do so. If you want to read a book, please sign it out in the book and sign in when you return it.
* Barbecues are Back! - Join the Rochester COA every Monday afternoon for a delicious BBQ at the Senior Center. Grilled fare is the menu, complete with all the fixings. No set cost for the meal, but a cash donation is appreciated. All we ask is that you call us in advance to reserve your spot, so we will have enough food for everyone.
* Veterans Social - The monthly Veterans Social will be held on Wednesday, September 24 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the Senior Center. All Rochester Veterans of any age are welcome to drop in for informal conversation and refreshments.
September Trips
* Thursday, September 4 - Charles River Riverboat Cruise, Cambridge, Lunch and Shop Package. $ 30.00 due on signup. Leave Rochester 8:00; Return at 4:00 pm.
* Friday, September 5 - Super Walmart/Raynham and Lunch. Leave 8:30; Return at 2:00.
* Sunday, September 7 - Apple Peach Festival/Acushnet. Leave 12:00; Return at 4:00
* Monday, September 8 - Buttonwood Park Zoo and Lunch. Leave 8:30; Return at 3:00
* Wednesday, September 10 - Hawaiian Luau Show and Dinner at White's Of Westport; $33 per person due upon sign-up. Leave 10:30; Return at 4:30.
* Friday, September 12 - Ocean State Job Lot/Fairhaven and Lunch. Leave 8:30; Return at 2:00 pm.
* Sunday, September 14 - Farmer's Market/Carver and Ice Cream Stop. Leave 12:00; Return at 4:00 pm.
* Monday, September 15 - The Big E/ Springfield. Admission: $10, payable that day. Leave 8:00; Return at 7:00.
* Friday, September 19 - The Bourne Scallop Festival. Admission $15 includes full meal (scallops or chicken). Leave 9:30; Return at 3:00 with a stop for Ice Cream.
* Monday, September 22 - Providence Place Mall and Lunch. Leave 8:30; Return at 3:00.
* Monday, September 29 - Sandwich Christmas Tree Shop and Cape Cod Outlets. Leave 8:30; Return at 3:00.
Movie Showings
September Friday Movie Showings: New release or recent movies with popcorn!
* September 5 - College Road Trip;
* September 12 - 21;
* September 19 - Smart People;
* September 26 - Meet The Browns.
Marion Art Center
Membership Drive
The Marion Art Center's Annual Membership drive is now underway. Entering its fifty-first year, the art center is a viable, lively community center for the arts supported by membership dues and donations. Classes in art, dance, music, voice, piano and theater are offered year round. Scholarships are available to students in need. New exhibitions are installed in the two art galleries every month.
In June there is a mini "Art in Bloom" with the Marion Garden Discussion Group. Concerts, plays, musicals and children's shows are presented in the theater throughout the year. Volunteers serve on the Board of Directors, Exhibition Committee and Theater Committee and host special events like "Arts in the Park," The Buzzards Bay Musicfest, the Marion Halloween Parade and create a float for the Fourth of July parade.
Membership is open to everyone. Members receive monthly invitations to gallery openings, quarterly Newsletters, discounts on classes and tickets and attend gala special events. There are many levels of participation. Artist members are eligible to be included in the two semi-annual Members Shows.
The Members Show is now on display through October 1. For more information, please call 508-748-1266 or stop in during gallery hours: Tuesday through Friday, 1:00 to 5:00 pm and Saturdays, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.
Classes
* Young People's Theater: TERM I: September 9 - December 4. Annie Giddings, Instructor
* YPT Preschool (ages 3-5) Tuesdays, 3:15 to 3:45 pm. Younger students will have the opportunity to explore theater through games, stories and creative movement. The focus is purely fun, cooperation and imaginative exploration! Fee: $105/$125.
* YPT I: (Grades K-2) Thursdays, 3:30 - 4:30 pm. Students will gain basic theater skills through games in a non-competitive atmosphere. There will be a short production at the end of the term. Fee: $135/$150
* YPT II: (Grades 3 - 5) Thursdays, 4:30 - 6:00 pm. Students learn beginner and intermediate theater skills through games and exercises that develop creativity, cooperation, imagination and improvisation. There will be a production at the end of the term. No experience necessary! Fee: $150/$165
* YPT Advanced: (Grades 5 - 8) Tuesdays, 4:00 - 6:00 pm. This class is designed for students who have had some previous acting or theater experience. Advanced skills of improvisation, pantomime and creative dramatics will be emphasized. There will be an advanced-level production at the end of the term. Fee: $165/$180
* "Just for the Fun of It!": (Grades 3 - 7). First Sunday of the month, 2:00 - 4:00. (October 5, November 2, December 7). A fun afternoon of theater games. Come for one to get a taste or sign up for all three. Fee: $20/$25 per day
* YPT Workshops: (Grades 3 - 8). Saturdays and Sundays, 2:00 - 4:00 -"Writing a Play" September 20, 21, 27, 28; "Monologues and Scenes" October 18 and 19; "Creating Characters" November 29 and 30. Each workshop may be taken individually. No experience necessary. Fee: $40/$50 per weekend
* Dancing School - Term I: September 10 - December 4. Teah Mazzoni, Instructor
* Kinderstep I: (ages 3 - 5) Wednesdays, 3:45 - 4:30. Introduction to ballet and tap. Fee: $135/$150
* Kinderstep II (ages 6 - 8) Wednesdays, 4:30 - 5:15. Learn more ballet and tap techniques. Mini recital at the end of the term. Fee: $135/$150
Piano Lessons
Tuesdays by appointment with Nancy Sparklin, Instructor.
Voice Lessons
Wednesdays by appointment with Joyce Jacobsen, Instructor
Pre-registration for all classes and lessons call 508-748-1266.
Nancy Sparklin has been teaching private piano lessons for over 20 years. She specializes in young beginners and teaches through the intermediate level. She strongly believes the secret to a successful and enjoyable musical experience is to offer students a large variety of musical styles which include everything from classical to contemporary. She is a choral accompanist for several schools in the area.
Teah Mazzoni was trained at the Sherry Gold Studios and at 18 was Miss Dance Olympus, 1998. She was a teacher and choreographer at Kathy Medina's Studio in Rochester before attending UMass Amherst where she graduated Magna Cum Laude with a BS degree. She holds a Master of Education degree from Bridgewater State College and currently is a second grade teacher at Rochester Memorial School. She choreographed MAC's production of Annie last spring.
Annie Giddings has been the director of Young People's Theater at MAC for the past eight years and is head of theater at MAC's summer ARTSTART. A graduate of Wheelock College, she teaches pre-school in Newton. Annie has been involved in many activities at MAC since she was five. She has written and directed numerous children's plays.
Joyce Jacobsen is a graduate of UMass Amherst with a major in music & vocal performance. She has been teaching and coaching in the Southcoast area for over 20 years in her studio and other venues.
Gallery
* Paintings and Assemblages by Susan Gilmore, October 3 to November 14. Opening Reception: October 3, 6:00 to 8:00 pm.
* Holiday Shop, November 21 - December 23. Gala Opening on Friday, November 21, 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Open Sundays, 1:00 to 4:00 pm in addition to regular gallery hours.
Special Events
* Halloween Parade, October 31 at 4:00 pm: Meet at the Marion Music Hall and stroll around town to amuse and delight!
* Holiday Tea Party, Saturday, November 29, One seating at 3:00 pm. American Girl theme party with crafts, entertainment, music and high tea. Tickets: $20.
* Holiday Dance Recital, December 4 at 5:00 pm.
* Holiday House Tour and Silhouette Day with Carol LeBeaux: TBA.
North Rochester Church
The North Rochester Congregational Church located at 247 North Avenue is an independent church and welcomes everyone to worship at 10:00 am every Sunday. The pulpit is filled by volunteers from the congregation or guest speakers. Nancy Sparklin is in charge of the music, assisted by Charles Chace.
On the second Sunday of the month, following the service, everyone is invited to join together for food and fellowship at a brunch prepared by the members of the congregation. The church is handicap-accessible. For more information on special events or changes to the schedule, please call Barbara Besse at 508-763-8838. Please note: the church is not UCC affiliated.
Upcoming speakers include:
* September 7: Communion.
Fairhaven Farmer's Market
Come for the first time or return again. The new Fairhaven Farmers Market has a lot to offer. This wonderful new market is held every Sunday, afternoon from 1:00 to 4:00 pm on the lawn of Fairhaven High School. Check out the different produce every week provided by local farmers. You can also buy cheeses, honey, eggs, delicious bakery items and wonderful body care products, as well as beautiful handmade market bags in unique designs.
There are activities for children to enjoy. This week they will continue their Farmers Market Scavenger Hunt for all ages. Also a massage therapist, Amy Atkins will be on hand to give brief massages.
Visit the market with your family, ride your bike, stay a while, and enjoy the community atmosphere!
For more information, please contact Ann Richard at 1-508-991-8315 or visit the website at www.greenfairhaven.com.
Fairhaven Craft Fair
Applications are currently being accepted for the Our Lady's Haven Holiday Craft Fair.
The Fair will be held in the historic Tabitha Inn of Our Lady's Haven (71 Center Street in Fairhaven) on Saturday, November 22 from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. This historic building, built in 1904, will serve as a wonderful setting for the Fair, which will feature a wide variety of unique handmade items, books, food and gifts.
Space is limited, and available on a first-come-first-served basis. Tables and chairs will be provided for Fair participants. The cost for a six-foot exhibit space is $25. Each crafter will also be asked to donate one item for a raffle. Proceeds from the raffle will benefit the residents of Our Lady's Haven.
To participate, please contact: Kate Hancock, Human Resources Director, Our Lady's Haven, 71 Center Street, Fairhaven, MA, 02719, phone 508-999-4561, email khancock@dhfo.org.
Mattapoisett Congregational Church
Following is the schedule for the Mattapoisett Congregational Church:
* On September 7 at 10:00 am, Homecoming Sunday and Church School registration will be held at Ned's Point.
* On September 14 at 10:00 am, worship service and Church School will take place in the Meeting House.
For more information, please call the Church Office at 508-758-2671.
Elizabeth Taber Library
Reading Games
Pre-readers can help fill the library's "aquarium" by coloring and adding a fish each time they visit the library. Independent readers going into Grades 2-7 and/or family groups reading together can "fish" for a good cause through the generosity of Lockheed Martin/Sippican, Inc. Learn more about the program on the library website or at the library.
The Elizabeth Taber Library is located at 8 Spring Street in Marion. For more information, please call the library at 508-748-1352, check their website at www.sailsinc.org/marion, or e-mail Marsha Rehkamp, Children's Librarian, at mrehkamp@sailsinc.org.
Al-Anon in Marion
The Al-Anon meeting welcomes friends and relatives of alcoholics at 8:00 pm on Wednesdays at St. Gabriel's Church Hall, 124 Front Street in Marion.
Fairhaven Childbirth Classes
Natural Childbirth Classes offer labor and delivery information, breathing and relaxation techniques, and comfort measures to pregnant women and their partners who want a low medical intervention childbirth. Five two-and-a-half-hour classes will be held on Sunday evenings beginning September 7 in Fairhaven. For information and registration, please call Lisa Elliott, Certified Childbirth Educator, at 508-994-1250.
Sippican Historical Museum
The Sippican Historical Society Museum in Marion is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. The museum is located at 139 Front Street, in the heart of Marion village, and features artifacts and historical materials pertaining to Marion, including furnishings, paintings, photographs and maps. Special features include displays dedicated to the Mary Celeste and the Gilded Age of Marion. Please call for further information at 508-748-1116.
Mattapoisett COA Board
The Mattapoisett Council on Aging (COA) is currently accepting letters of interest from individuals wishing to be considered for a seat on the COA Advisory Board. The current board is seeking individuals interested in contributing fresh ideas for current and new programming in support of well-being throughout later life. Individuals should be prepared to attend board meetings the first Wednesday of each month at 8:00 am. Please send letters to Vanessa M.F. Williams, Ph.D. at the Mattapoisett COA, P.O. Box 528, Mattapoisett, MA.
FISH Volunteers Needed
Volunteering for FISH is a way to offer a meaningful contribution to the community. They currently need volunteers to transport neighbors to medical appointments. All riders are ambulatory. Volunteers use their own car. You can volunteer for one day a month or perhaps just one morning a week. If this is something you would like to assist with, please call 508-758-2140. Remember, volunteering feels good. They are also in need of FISH callers. Callers schedule about three requests a day and drivers. Just call 508-758-2140 for more information.
COA Newsletter
If you wish to receive the Mattapoisett Council on Aging newsletter, please call the center at 508-758-4110 with your name and address. The newsletter comes out every other month and is full of ideas and upcoming events that you won't want to miss. Residents of Marion and Rochester are also welcome to receive newsletter and participate in COA activities.
Overeaters Anonymous
Tired of overeating? A speaker/newcomers meeting of Overeaters Anonymous will be held at Saint Gabriel's Church, 124 Front Street in Marion, on the last Saturday of each month at 9:00 am. For more information, please call Linda at 508-947-0583.
Mattapoisett Bulletin Board
The Mattapoisett Lions Club sponsors a Community Bulletin Board for the use of the various organizations and groups within Mattapoisett. This Bulletin Board is located at the intersection of North Street and County Road (Route 6). Usage of the Board is being offered to all local educational, religious and civic organizations which are non-profit in nature. Political information such as meetings, events and election information will also be considered. Requests such as personal messages, personal political announcements and for-profit organizations will not not be considered. Requests for use of the Bulletin Board must be made on a Lions Club form which may be obtained by contacting the Mattapoisett Lions Club, P.O. Box 1022, Mattapoisett, MA 02739.
Mattapoisett Recycling Program
Curbside recycling pick-up in Mattapoisett is done on a biweekly basis. You may leave the following items for collection:
* Plastic containers (including all plastic milk, juice and water jugs, and both #1 and #2 plastic), but no plastic bags or no #3 through #7 plastic containers;
* Metal cans (all cans, tin foil, and cooking tins), but no window frames, lawn furniture, or paint/aerosol cans;
* Glass bottles and jars (clear, green, brown bottles for soda, beer and wine, also mayonnaise and baby food), but no opaque or blue glass, no ceramic or plate glass; and
* Newspapers (including those with Sunday supplements), but no soiled or wet newspapers, including magazines, catalogs, phone books, paper bags, and untied cardboard.
Please note that all containers must be thoroughly cleaned, all caps, rings, lids and styrofoam labels must be removed (paper labels may stay on), and you should place containers in bag to protect against weather but do not tie the bag closed!
Mattapoisett residents may also drop off their recyclable materials at any time at the transfer station from Tuesday through Saturday, 8:00 am to 3:00 pm. The following items are accepted at the transfer station:
* Yard Waste (including grass clippings, leaves ... all FREE of charge), however there is a charge for logs, stumps and branches;
* Appliances (including air conditioners, refrigerators, stoves, hot water tanks, washer/dryers, and the like), fee is $10 per item;
* Scrap Metal (including car fenders and bumpers), but no gas tanks or whole cars. There is a charge per carload/truckload;
* Car Batteries (taken FREE of charge and must be checked with attendant for storage area). Tires and paint are also taken once per year (please consult The Wanderer for date and times).
Remember, you haven't truly recycled until you buy products made with materials you place at the curbside or drop-off. For a brochure about buying recycled products, please call the DEPs Infoline at 1-800-462-0444. If you see illegal dumping or other environmental hazards occurring in your neighborhood, please call the Mattapoisett Board of Health. For major incidents, call the Massachusetts Environmental Strike Force at 1-617-556-1000.
Households in Mattapoisett without a blue recycling bin should call the Board of Health, as additional bins are available. You may also drop off recycling at the Mattapoisett Transfer Station, Tuesday-Saturday from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm.
For fee structures and further information on recycling, please call the Mattapoisett Board of Health office at 508-758-4100, extension 8.
Rochester Recycling Program
Recyclables are picked up twice a month in Rochester on Thursday. Acceptable items include: clean dry newspapers, newspaper inserts, magazines, phone books, soda bottles (#1), liquor bottles (#1), detergent bottles (#2), milk jugs (#2), glass jars (brown, clear and green), aluminum and tin cans (food containers only). They have also recently added corrugated cardboard to the list which is picked up once a month on Thursday (Route 1 and 3 on the third Thursday, Route 2 and 4 on the fourth Thursday).
The program does not accept: plastic bags or ties, junk mail, other plastic containers (#3, #4, #5, #6, or #7), eating utensils, film bags, polystyrene, juice packs, milk cartons, motor oil or chemical containers, paint cans, aerosol cans, caps and lids, plate glass and mirrors, ceramics and statuettes, dinnerware or china, decorated bottles, or light bulbs and tubes.
Residents are asked to crush all cardboard boxes flat and tie them together to prevent blowing around, to place mixed recyclables in the recycling bin, to place newspapers in a separate recycling bin or in paper bags, to place magazines in bags or bin with newspapers or tie them separately, to rinse and drain all containers so they are free of food, and place all recyclables on the curb by 7:00 am for pick up.
Pick up for Route 1 will be on the first and third Tuesday of the month. These areas include: Andrew Burke Lane, Ashley Brook Lane, Bradford Estates, Braley Hill Road, Briarwood Lane, Dr. Braley Road, Featherbed Lane, Hartley Road, Neck Road, North Avenue, Old Orchard Estates, Paulines Way, Pine Street, Quaker Lane, Robinson Road, Snipatuit Pond Estates, Snipatuit Road (Hartley Road to North Avenue), Snows Pond Road, Taber Lane, Winfield Street, and Wordell Street.
Pick up for Route 2 will be made on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month. These areas include: Bates Road, Burgess Avenue, Clark Court, County Road, Cranberry Highway, Cross Road, High Street, Hiller Road, Looks Mill Lane, Marys Pond Road (Hiller Road to County Road), Mayflower Woods, Morse Court, Old Middleboro Road, Old Schoolhouse Road, Pierce Street, Perrys Lane, Porter Road, Ryder Road, Sippican Estates, Springwood Drive, Stevens Road, Walnut Plain Road (Hiller Road to town line), and Woodland Road.
Pick up for Route 3 will be made on the first and third Thursday of the month. These areas include: Alley Road, Bassett Street, Clapp Road, Deerfield Terrace, Dexter Lane, Earls Court, Haskell Ridge Estates, Marion Road, Mendell Road, Marys Pond Road (Hiller Road to Marion Road), Nathaniels Drive, Sarah Sherman Road, Union Church Terrace, Walnut Plain Road (Hiller Road to Marion Road), and Williams Way.
Pick up for Routes 4 will be made on the second and fourth Thursday of the month. These areas include: Bowens Lane, Cushman Road, Edwards Road, Jasons Lane, Mattapoisett Road, New Bedford Road, Rounseville Road, Snipatuit Road (Hartley Road to Vaughan Hill Road), Vaughan Hill Road, and Wolf Island Road.
Corrugated cardboard will be picked up along Routes 1 and 3 on the third Thursday of the month and along Routes 2 and 4 on the fourth Thursday of the month.
Recycling bins and flyers can be picked up at the Rochester Highway Barn or can be dropped off if you call 508-763-4336 and leave your name and address.