Author David A. Kelly Visits Old Hammondtown School

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Superintendent Michael S. Nelson and Principal Stephanie Wells are pleased to share that author David A. Kelly visited Old Hammondtown School last week to speak with fourth and fifth graders about writing and creativity.

            Kelly, the author of the popular “Ballpark Mysteries” series, spoke candidly about his early frustration with writing and how learning to revise, take feedback and keep trying helped him grow. He shared how his first book took a year to finish and how the initial response from his editor was that it was “terrible.”

            Kelly told the students that he rewrote the book several times, improving it each draft until it was accepted for publication.

            “This visit gave our students a real look at how writing works,” said Principal Wells. “Mr. Kelly talked about the effort behind his books and showed our students that strong writing comes from practice, patience, perseverance and a willingness to keep trying.”

            Kelly donated signed book cards for every student and also gave the school library several books.

            “We’re so grateful to Reading Specialist, Mrs. Samost, for arranging this author visit and giving our students the chance to hear such an encouraging message about persistence and growth,” said Principal Wells. “It perfectly reflects our three Cs: Care, Curiosity, and Compassion. Mr. Kelly cared enough about his goal to keep working at it, stayed curious about how to improve, and showed compassion for himself by not giving up when it was hard.”

            “We want our students, especially our younger learners, to see themselves as people who can take risks and build their skills with support,” said Superintendent Nelson. “Mr. Kelly’s message supported that goal. He showed our students that progress comes from sticking with an idea and getting better each time you revise with feedback and support from others.”

Arlene F. (Rogers) Belliveau

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Arlene F. (Rogers) Belliveau, 82, of Rochester, MA and The Villages, FL died Sunday, November 23, 2025 at Charlton Memorial Hospital after a brief illness. She was the wife of Paul Belliveau.

            Born in New Bedford, daughter of the late John and Maude (Mosher) Rogers, she was raised in New Bedford and lived in Rochester and Mattapoisett for most of her life.

            Arlene was a graduate of New Bedford High School and later graduated with honors from both Southeastern Massachusetts University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting and Bentley University with a Master’s in Taxation Degree.

            She was formerly employed as an accounting manager for Sippican Corporation, later Lockheed Martin, for many years until her retirement.

            Arlene enjoyed golfing and was a member of Reservation Golf Club in Mattapoisett. She also enjoyed quilting, reading and dancing.

            She is survived by her husband, Paul; her son, Frank Linhares, Jr. and his wife Susan; two daughters, Karen Vieira and her husband Tony and Tracy Tringale; her step-daughter, Kimberly Pacheco and her husband Ed; her sister, Elaine Pacheco; five grandchildren, John Linhares and his wife Kymberly, Brittany Benevides and her husband Jonathan, Philip Tringale, Zachary Rogers, and Nico Tringale; four great-grandchildren, Jocelyn, Lillyana, Olivia, and Trace; and several nieces and nephews.

            She was predeceased by many siblings.

            Her visiting hours will be Friday, November 28, 2025 from 9-9:45 am in the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Rd., Mattapoisett. Burial will follow at 10 am in Cushing Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in Arlene’s memory may be made to Damien’s Food Pantry, 242 Marion Rd., Wareham, MA 02571 or to a charity of your choice. For directions and guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.

Stormwater Bylaw Passes; Water Meters on Hold

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            The Marion Special Town Meeting was held on Monday, November 24 at 6:45 pm at Sippican School. Of the two articles voted upon, Article S1 passed with an absolute majority and Article S2 was postponed until the next Town Meeting.

            Article S1: To see if the Town will vote to amend Chapter 20 (Zoning) of the Code of Marion by adding the following article after Article XII: Article XIII – Stormwater Management Bylaw, commonly known as MS4. This article passed, with fewer than five “nay” votes.

            Article S2 (Citizens’ Petition): To see if the Town will vote to authorize and direct the Marion Water Department, to establish permitting (residential) property owners to install, at their own expense, a secondary meter for outdoor water usage, such as lawn irrigation, gardening, feeding of livestock, swimming pools, or other non-sewer activities. This article was postponed to the next Town Meeting, May 2026.

            Into the events of the meeting. Andrew Daniel had a lot of speaking to do on that night. As chair of the Marion Planning Board, he has worked extensively on the MS4 bylaw. He is also the citizen who submitted the Citizens’ Petition regarding water meters.

            Referring to Article S1 (MS4 bylaw), Daniel said if it were to pass, public hearings with the Planning Board will begin in December. He clarified certain aspects of the bylaw that pertain to roads. He stressed maintenance of preexisting roads wouldn’t trigger action or further regulation, but new roads or extensive alteration would. For most requests, Daniel emphasized that most MS4 regulating would be done through the Planning Board with the remaining going through the Building commissioner’s office.

            After little more than 10 minutes of deliberation, Article S1 passed with few “nays,” well over two-thirds majority voting in favor.

            Next was the big event for the night, discussion around Article S2, the Citizens’ Petition submitted by Daniel, who stated he was originally inspired to make the petition by doing yard work and then speaking to those in other towns such as Fairhaven. Representatives in other towns told Daniel it was the “right and fair thing to do.” He said, “I know in years past it’s been talked about, to add a second meter, [but] it’s just talked about all the time.” He added, “Nothing ever comes of it. The conversation ends up dying. I felt like a Citizen’s Petition was a good way to get the conversation going.”

            Following Daniel, Vice-Chair of the Select Board John Hoagland gave a presentation pertaining to town debt, water and sewer enterprise accounts, and possible effects from widespread second-meter adoption. Hoagland agreed changes should be made but said time and consideration must be taken in order “to implement minimal and fair sewer-rate changes, how to generate sufficient sewer revenues to meet sewer enterprise expenses and debt obligations.”

            He noted the town has a current Water Department debt of $7,400,000, with the town paying $893,000 in principal and interest payments on said debt. He then said, “sewer gets much more interesting,” citing the sewer debt of $25,115,000 with the town paying $2,000,000 annually on principal and interest payments. The total town debt is $41,900,000 with an operating budget of $16,000,000. In order to maintain order in this delicate balance, Hoagland and the other Select Board members recommended an indefinite postponement of the article in order for Water and Sewer commissioners (the three Select Board members) to find equitable solutions which also don’t lead to the town facing hardship in debt payments.

            In their worst-case scenario estimates, Hoagland cited around a 12% revenue loss from secondary-meter proliferation. Before disputing, Daniel, began, “I don’t want it to be a screaming match about water prices.” He noted all new buildings being required to hook into sewer per the Board of Health, especially focusing on the large-scale housing developments in the works.

            Resident Vincent J. Malkoski recommended efforts be bolstered to get everyone on town sewer. Select Board member Norm Hills said efforts are underway to get more on sewer hookup following the Spring Town Meeting.

            Resident Jonathan Henry commended making things more fair but didn’t support an indefinite postponement. He wanted to keep the conversation going to find a solution.

            A motion to cut off debate passed. The vote for indefinite postponement failed with around 10-15 votes in favor, including the Select Board.

            Not long after, another resident recommended and put a motion forth to postpone to next Town Meeting, rather than indefinitely, putting a time limit and ensuring urgency for discussion. This motion was quickly seconded by Select Board members.

            The motion passed with over a two-thirds majority of voters.

            Regardless of anything, this was a productive night for Daniel, who worked extensively on Article S1 as chair of the Planning Board and was the original proposer of the Citizens’ Petition, Article S2. He stated he wanted to get the conversation started, and the night surely showed that is the case, as it will continue to the lead up to the next Town Meeting in May of 2026.

Marion Special Fall Town Meeting

By Sam Bishop

Questions over Control Officer Selection

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            The November 19 meeting of the Mattapoisett Select Board found the board fielding questions regarding the selection of Luke Mello as the new Animal Control officer.

            Earlier in the proceedings when the agenda item… “possible vote to fill the position” was discussed, Town Administrator Mike Lorenco explained the process used to evaluate two candidates vying for the position. That explanation was followed up with a statement released by Lorenco on November 21. It stated, “The town is issuing this statement regarding the hiring process for the natural resource officer position.”

            After extensive consideration, the town posted the position when employment terms could not be mutually agreed upon with an internal candidate as outlined during the November 19 meeting of the Select Board. The town followed the Police Department’s standard interview process to evaluate applicants.

            The interview panel consisted of long-term town employees collectively bringing more than 60 years of service to the community, as well as an external representative from a neighboring community. Two of the town employees on the panel are also residents of Mattapoisett, ensuring both professional and local perspectives were represented. Following the panel’s unanimous recommendation, the Select Board moved forward with the appointment, announcing the selection of Mello.

            The notice went on to say, “Thomas Gomes is currently a town employee, his existing position has not been eliminated as part of this process. No further comment will be made as the town does not discuss personnel matters beyond the information provided in this release.” Gomes has been performing Animal Control duties.

            In other business, the board held a tax classification public hearing, beginning with Chair of the Board of Assessors Ray Andrews and Administrator of Assessing Mia Robertson. After a presentation, it was decided to maintain a single tax rate, which has historically been in place. It was noted that for fiscal year 2026, there was around $2,000,000,000 in real property and that the average home price was $805,000 for a single-family home with an average tax bill of $8,000. New growth stood at $46,000,000.

            An update from Charles Engineering regarding Long Wharf was on the agenda. The report stated that the firm has been working on securing permits from various agencies. Select Board member Tyler Macallister asked when construction might begin, given that the project has been on the drawing board since 2012. The board was told that that project is in the design phase and that cost estimates will follow after design is finalized.

            Member Jodi Bauer asked how the project will be funded. Lorenco said grants will be sought.

            The Select Board also approved a variety of licenses, primarily for the sale and consumption of wine and spirits. Lorenco said that inspection of such establishments will take place before licenses are issued.

            Visit the town’s website for details on the tax rate and economic data at www.mattapoisett.gov/157/Assessors.

            The next meeting of the Mattapoisett Select Board is scheduled for Tuesday, December 9.

Mattapoisett Select Board & Board of Assessors

By Marilou Newell

Christmas on Church Street

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The Mattapoisett Congregational Church’s annual Holiday Fair will be held on Saturday, December 6 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm in Reynard Hall at 27 Church Street in Mattapoisett. This year’s event will include homemade frozen foods, baked treats and homemade candy, hand knitted and crafted items, Christmas/holiday decorations, gift items, greenery for wreaths as well as jewelry, a kids’ table and a delicious hot soup luncheon. All proceeds benefit the ministries of the Mattapoisett Congregational Church. For additional information, please contact the church office at 508-758-2671 or mattcongchurch@gmail.com.

Montgomery Captures Montreal

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            This week in Revolutionary War history, let’s check up on what was going on 250 years ago in and around the colonial Province of Massachusetts Bay. Last week, Washington had to curb the anti-Catholic celebrations inherent to Guy Fawkes Day. This was primarily to not alienate the Catholic Quebecois, for whom Washington hoped to win the favor of on the battlefield. In Canada, the Continental Army moved closer to Montreal, capturing Fort Saint-Jean. Even with that victory, Colonel Bennedict Arnold’s column faces severe supply shortages and abandonment. The British appeals to those enslaved also began, with thousands fleeing their brutal plantations to take up the ranks in the British Army. Finally, the Continental Congress had voted on and approved another mission into Canada. This time, to send a seaborne assault with marine divisions to capture Nova Scotia.

            On November 12, 1775, Washington issues his General Orders from Cambridge and in them, details various actions required by new recruits, primarily focused on the incoming winter. He says those enlisting will need to furnish their own weapons, although uniforms and blankets will be provided. He does say. “Two dollars will be allowed to each non-commissioned officer, and soldier, who provides himself with a good blanket,” a nice incentive to supply for yourself even more.

            Much of the orders regard the enlistment, or re-enlistment, soldiers, with Washington adding, “The officers are to be careful not to enlist any person, suspected of being unfriendly to the liberties of America, or any abandoned vagabond to whom all causes and countries are equal and alike indifferent – The rights of mankind and the freedom of America will have numbers sufficient to support them, without resorting to such wretched assistance – Let those who wish to put shackles upon freeman fill their ranks.” Ironically and unfortunately, Washington explicitly outlaws Africans or those “unfit to endure the fatigues of the campaign” from enlisting, a sharp contrast to the British who are rally support among the enslaved. At the time, there were around half-a-million enslaved people in the Thirteen Colonies. The total population of the colonies was around 2.5 million.

            On November 13, Washington hears from Colonel Bennedict Arnold. “The wind has been so high these three nights that I have not been able to cross the river” says Arnold, writing from Pointe de Lévy, just across the Saint Lawrence River from Quebec City. That same day, Brigadier General Richard Montgomery crosses the Saint Charles and arrives on Pointe-Saint-Charles, an island of Montreal. The garrison and people of Montreal surrender without much of a fight, welcoming Montgomery.

            The next day, Washington’s General Orders are jubilant, declaring “This moment a confirmation is arrived, of the glorious success of the Continental Arms, in the reduction, and surrender, of the Fortress of St Johns.” He has not yet been notified of Montreal. He continues, “The Commander in Chief is confident, the army under his immediate direction, will shew their gratitude to Providence, for thus favoring the cause of freedom and America.”

            On November 16, Washington gives his instructions to Colonel Henry Knox for what will become a legendary expedition. He writes, “You are immediately to examine into the state of the artillery of this army & take an account of the cannon, mortars, shells, lead & ammunition that are wanting; When you have done that, you are to proceed in the most expeditious manner to New York.” Knox is to travel to New York City and then head north to Ticonderoga or further to gather captured artillery and armaments for Washington’s use. “After you have procured as many of these Necessaries as you can there, you must go to Major General Schuyler & Get the remainder from Ticonderoga, Crown point, or St Johns – If it should be necessary, from Quebec, if in our hands – the want of them is so great, that no trouble or expense must be spared to obtain them.” Thus began the “Knox Expedition,” otherwise known as the “noble train of artillery.”

            On November 17, Washington writes to Major General Artemas Ward, also stationed in the area, with another warning with the dropping temperatures. He writes, “As the season is fast approaching when the bay between us and Boston will, in all probability be close shut up, thereby rendering any movement upon the ice as easy as if no water was there.” If the Charles River is the freeze, either General William Howe will be able to flee the city or receive reinforcements for the British garrison. Washington is further pushing the idea of a pre-winter offensive, though is still unsure of the exact methods.

This Week in Revolutionary History

By Sam Bishop

Mattapoisett Food and Toy Drive

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The Mattapoisett Lions will be hosting a food and toy drive December 13 in front of Ying Dynasty from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm and from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm at Shipyard Park during the town tree lighting event. Monetary donations are also encouraged.

            All toys will be shuttled over to the Mattapoisett Fire Department. The Lions have collaborated with the Fire Department on this toy drive for many years. All food and monetary donations will be donated to Damian’s Pantry. If you want to donate a supermarket gift card, Damian’s suggested $25 increments.

The Rochester Historical Society

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The Rochester Historical Society Museum will be open on the remaining 2 Sundays in November. After that call 617-750-2818 to arrange an appointment. We are located at 355 County Rd. in Rochester.

            In December we will have 2 events to be announced soon, but the interesting news is that if you go to the Town of Rochester Facebook page, you can see a great photo spread of our current exhibit. Check it out and then come and view the real thing.

Upcoming Events at the Elizabeth Taber Library

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The library will be closed at noon on Wednesday, November 26, and closed all day on Thursday and Friday, November 27 and November 28, in celebration of Thanksgiving.

            Drop off gently used books, puzzles, and games for the Friends of the Elizabeth Taber Library’s Donation Days, through December 3. Please make sure all materials are in sellable condition. Check out our Holiday Raffle Baskets and shop our Holiday Book Sale to benefit the library starting Thursday, December 4 at 2:00 pm, and continuing through Saturday December 6.

            Drop in on Thursday, November 20 any time from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm to make your own spice blends for unique holiday gifts.

            Ongoing in November- Free recipes and spice packets from our Spice Pantry, available all month long.

            For more information on the Elizabeth Taber Library visit us at www.ElizabethTaberLibrary.org or email the library at ETLibrary@sailsinc.org. 8 Spring Street Marion, MA 02738. 508-748-1252.

Trust Eyes New Member and Website Revamp

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The town’s Affordable Housing Trust met on November 12 in the police station conference room and met with a potential new member with decades of relevant experience, and the trust talked about revamping its web site. MAFT also discussed logistics for special emergency lock boxes for elderly residences, as well as seeking grant opportunities for the MAFT’s housing production plan.

            Town resident Jennifer Newsom spoke with the trust and said she has worked with the state Department of Development Services for the past 25 years. She also has conducted housing subsidies-related work for the state for 37 years.

            Trust members appeared impressed with her credentials but her potential appointment was not on the agenda, and it had not gone before the Select Board. Newsom sat in on the meeting.

            If all goes well, Newsom will be named as an Associate Member of the trust.

            Just like last meeting, the trust is looking for ways to revamp its website, so it is more consistent with the trust’s purpose and goals.

            At the last meeting, the trust was contemplating seeking an intern who could conduct such work, which would save money.

            Norman Hills, the Select Board Representative on the MAHT, said he would follow up with the Town Administrator about the endeavor.

            The trust tabled action on seeking funding and working through logistics for emergency lockboxes for seniors and other residents in need. These boxes are dubbed “Kox boxes” and have been a topic of discussion at the last few meetings.

            MAFT members said that there are legal challenges, such as a deed restriction for anyone with these lock boxes. Such lock boxes would allow fire and emergency officials to break into a home in the case of an emergency.

            MAFT members also discussed whether they should seek funding from the trust’s account or seek community preservation funds for such a project.

            MAFT members also referenced the town’s housing production plan, which was last updated in 2022. MAFT members said they would like to seek grant opportunities toward realizing goals within the plan.

            The Marion Affordable Housing Trust is scheduled to meet again Tuesday, December 9 in the Marion Police Department’s conference room.

Marion Affordable Housing Trust

By Jeffrey D. Wagner