Bulldogs on Road for Thanksgiving

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The Old Rochester Regional High School football team rebounded from a challenging start to the 2025 season by reeling off three midseason victories that propelled the Bulldogs into the MIAA Division 6 state tournament as the 13th seed, and on November 7 they stunned fourth-seeded Wilmington in six overtimes by a 47-39 score, a goal-line tackle stopping what would have set up a point-after to tie the game.

            The Bulldogs’ hopes for further playoff upsets ended in a 34-7 defeat against 9-1 Hudson, the fifth seed that on Saturday will play for a shot at the Super Bowl in the state semifinals against top-seeded Norwell. That game will kick off at 12:00 noon at Weston High School. The winner takes on the winner of Saturday’s other Division 6 semifinal between neighboring Fairhaven and Bishop Fenwick. That semifinal kicks off at 7:00 pm at Assabet Valley Regional High School in Marlborough. Seeded third, the 9-1 Blue Devils are trying to make it three straight trips to Gillette Stadium, having won the championship in 2023.

            ORR football has one more date on its calendar, the annual Thanksgiving Day game against South Coast Conference rival Apponequet. The Bulldogs are the visitors this year, and the game kicks off on Thursday, November 27, at 10:00 am at Griffith Stadium on Apponequet’s Lakeville campus.

Old Rochester Regional Drama Club Presents…

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The ORR Drama Club will be performing their rendition of Murder Mystery at the Murder Mystery at 7:00 pm from November 20 to November 22, with a final showing at 2:00 pm Sunday, November 23.

            The fast-paced comedy play was originally written by Brian D. Taylor in 2013 following rehearsing actors suddenly embroiled in a murder mystery. Hence, a Murder Mystery at the Murder Mystery.

            In choosing this play, Director Brayden Fanti said, “My absolute favorite genre of theatre is farce, because I genuinely love creating the controlled chaos. This is a genre we’ve tackled before, but I felt this show takes it up to a fresh and new level that these students have not had the chance to perform before. And it’s a whole lot of fun.”

            For their favorite part, Assistant Director Vanessa Medieros said, “My favorite part of Murder Mystery at the Murder Mystery is the subtle comedic timing in the character dialogue. It’s been so much fun watching the students thrive and bring their roles to life. Their unique traits create a wonderfully cohesive comedy, and it’s been a joy to experience.”

            In terms of challenges faced in production, Stage Manager Max Chace said, “The biggest challenges we faced had to be getting the quick timing of this show down. The actors’ lines have to flow at a quick pace, and getting the timing of the lights and sound down as well was a challenge, but we did it.”

            Actor Lincoln Fauteaux, playing Richard Polk, said of his favorite part, “In a show where these characters are forced to replay the same scene over and over again, the character of Richard matches my excitement and genuinely enjoys every part of this show no matter how many times he has to do it.”

            Actor Amanda Tomasso, playing Ms. Polly, when asked for some behind-the-scenes details of the play, said, “The best part of watching this show behind the scenes is seeing the whole thing coming together from scratch. Watching actors at the very beginning, grinding to learn their lines, and seeing where they are now. Thinking about where the set started, and what it looks like now. That is my favorite part.”

            Finally, when asked what he wanted audiences to walk away with, Director Brayden Fanti said, “More than anything, I want the audience to be able to forget about the outside world for just a night and lose themselves in this whacky show. It is a wild production that absolutely doesn’t take itself too seriously and allows the cast and crew to just have fun. That is a brilliant lesson that any audience member can take home with them.”

            To witness the “controlled chaos” for yourself, as well as these truly talented and dedicated performers and crew in their element, you can see Murder Mystery at the Murder Mystery this weekend at ORR.

Pre-Show Interviews

By Sam Bishop

Two-Family Decision Delayed

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Rochester’s Zoning Board of Appeals struggled at its November 13 meeting over whether to approve a new, two-family home at 309 Neck Road, voting instead to seek Town Counsel’s input on whether the variance being requested would be legal.

            The plan here is to raze the single-family home there and create a single-story, two-family home in its place so resident Jennifer Jones can move her senior-citizen parents into the back section of the new construction. Jones is seeking a variance of frontage requirements for this plan. She said her parents need to move from their two-story home. She and her young daughter would occupy the front of the new home.

            The board continued this hearing to its December 11 meeting after Building Commissioner Paul Boucher noted a variance of frontage requirements should not be allowed in this case. “You can’t be granting a variance on frontage here,” he said. “They should not be able to get a hardship approved. A two-family on that lot is not allowed.” Boucher added that Jones should have gone for a special permit instead.

            ZBA Chair Donald Spirlet said Jones has the area for the new home but not the frontage. He noted making it an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) would require it to be too small. The legal maximum size for an ADU in the bylaw and state law (by right) is 900 square feet. Counting all three floors, the projected size for the proposed, two-family house is 12,249 square feet.

            Board member Richard Cutler motioned a continuance after noting Town Counsel’s input was needed because a variance here may not even be legal. The full motion was to continue to December 11 to await receipt of certified plans and seek an opinion from counsel. Board Administrator Andreia Lacerda said the ZBA has two other public hearings on its agenda that night.

            The next meeting of the Rochester Zoning Board of Appeals will be held on Thursday, December 11 at 7:00 pm at Town Hall, 1 Constitution Way.

Rochester Zoning Board of Appeals

By Michael J. DeCicco

Democracy

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Dear Editor,

            As our community in Marion rallies to support neighbors through food drives and donations to Damien’s Food Pantry in Wareham, we are reminded that democracy is more than elections or party lines. It is a living moral agreement, a shared promise between citizens and the government they create. That promise, at its best, rests on three enduring duties: protection, sustenance, and lawful governance.

The philosopher John Locke taught that government exists first to protect our basic rights, life, liberty, and property. When families face hunger or hardship, that duty extends beyond safety from harm to ensuring no one is left unseen or uncared for.

            John Rawls, a modern philosopher of justice, expanded that idea. He argued that a fair democracy must also provide sustenance, not as charity but as fairness. Genuine freedom diminishes in significance when individuals lack access to essential resources such as food, healthcare, and opportunities for personal and professional development. When citizens step up, as Marion has, to support those whose SNAP benefits have been reduced, they help fulfill democracy’s deeper moral promise: that everyone deserves dignity and a fair chance to thrive.

            And John Dewey, the great American pragmatist, believed democracy is “a way of life.” According to Dewey, effective governance relies on active participation, where individuals come together to learn, discuss, and work collectively for the common good. Every can of food, every act of giving, every civic conversation becomes part of that shared democratic education.

            When we protect one another, sustain one another, and govern together, democracy ceases to be an abstract idea. It becomes something visible and alive, something we practice every day in Marion. By helping to feed our neighbors, we are not just meeting a need; we are keeping faith with the truest meaning of democracy itself.

            Sincerely,

            Eileen J. Marum, Marion

The views expressed in the “Letters to the Editor” column are not necessarily those of The Wanderer, its staff or advertisers. The Wanderer will gladly accept any and all correspondence relating to timely and pertinent issues in the great Marion, Mattapoisett and Rochester area, provided they include the author’s name, address and phone number for verification. We cannot publish anonymous, unsigned or unconfirmed submissions. The Wanderer reserves the right to edit, condense and otherwise alter submissions for purposes of clarity and/or spacing considerations. The Wanderer may choose to not run letters that thank businesses, and The Wanderer has the right to edit letters to omit business names. The Wanderer also reserves the right to deny publication of any submitted correspondence. All letters must be typed and submitted directly to: news@wanderer.com.

Holiday Luncheon And Cookie Sale

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The First Congregational Church of Marion is happy to host its Annual Holiday Luncheon to coincide with the Sippican Women’s Club Holiday House Tour. The luncheon takes place on Saturday, December 13 from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm. With a price of $18 per ticket, this event promises to be a delightful stop during the House Tour or an opportunity to enjoy some holiday cheer.

            The luncheon features our famous hot chicken salad or soup, dressed greens, bread, beverages, plus cheesecake with topping for dessert. The cost of the luncheon is $18. Tickets may be purchased in advance at the Marion General Store, at Penny Pinchers, online, and will also be available at the door on the day of the event.

            Before or after lunch, stop by the Cookie Sale to purchase delicious holiday cookies made by some of the best bakers of the church. These cookies will be offered in beautifully decorated boxes and will make a perfect host or hostess gift or a special treat when company pops in.

            The Holiday Luncheon and Cookie Sale will be held on the second floor of The First Congregational Church Community Center, 144 Front Street, Marion. This building, equipped with a stairlift, is located at the rear of the Marion General Store parking lot. Parking is available at the back right of the lot, plus there is additional parking at Island Wharf.

            Come, bring your friends, and enjoy.

Thomas M. Ferreira

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Thomas M. Ferreira, 82, of Mattapoisett, passed away peacefully on November 15, 2025.

            Born on November 30, 1942, Tom was raised in New Bedford, the son of the late Manual B. Ferreira and Mary (Ornellas) Ferreira. He was the devoted husband of Margaret (Rimmer) Ferreira for nearly 60 years.

            Tom’s childhood in New Bedford was filled with good-natured fun-and the occasional bit of mischief-while his parents worked full-time. He and his lifelong friend Bob shared many adventures, some of which landed them in just enough trouble to become great stories later on. Those early years shaped his easygoing nature and the man he would become.

            A proud 1960 graduate of New Bedford High School, Tom went on to attend Cape Cod Community College, where he met Margaret and formed friendships that lasted a lifetime.

            After marrying in 1966, Tom and Margaret settled back in New Bedford. Tom worked full-time during the day while taking night classes, determined to support his new wife and their growing family. He earned his degree in education from Boston State College and returned to New Bedford High School-this time as an educator-where he discovered his true calling. He dedicated decades to the New Bedford Public School System, guiding and encouraging students as they pursued their goals and carved out their own paths to success.

            In 1973, Tom realized his dream of living near the ocean when he and his family moved to Mattapoisett Neck Road. Tireless and hardworking, he provided for his family in every way he could. A skilled handyman, he tackled car repairs, plumbing issues, and carpentry challenges with confidence. After long days at work, he still made time to throw a football in the yard, attend every high school game, and create unforgettable family memories. Summers and winters brought ski trips to Mont Sutton, sailing on Buzzards Bay, and the ongoing adventure of boat upkeep. Tom ran competitively in local road races, loved cooking hearty homemade meals, and appreciated a good red wine shared among family. Family was at the center of everything he did-a gift he passed on to his children and grandchildren.

            After a dedicated 40-year career in education, Tom retired and embraced the joy of simply being with family. He celebrated birthdays and holidays in Mattapoisett, traveled to Cape Cod and beyond to watch his grandsons’ hockey and soccer games, and explored beaches, mountains, and vineyards throughout Virginia. He treasured quiet moments at the lake in New Hampshire, afternoons apple picking, restful days in ski lodges, and cheering on the Red Sox, Patriots, Celtics, and Bruins-often with a cold beer in hand in the small, cozy family den crowded with the people he loved most.

            Tom is survived by his beloved wife Margaret and their four children: Mark and his wife Darlene of Winthrop; Jane Connolly of Sandwich; Kristen Ferreira of New Bedford; and Matthew and his wife Marisa of Richmond, Virginia. He was the proud and loving grandfather of seven grandchildren: Patrick, Sean, and Jack Connolly; Meghan Sequin-Ferreira; and Ben, Beau, and Brooke Ferreira. He was predeceased by his son-in-law, Sean Connolly, whose memory remains a cherished part of the family.

            His Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, November 24th at 11:30 am in St. Anthony’s Church, 26 Hammond St. Mattapoisett.

            Arrangements are with the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Rd. (Rt. 6), Mattapoisett. For online guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.

Andrew Daniel’s Petition

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            Marion will hold its Fall Town Meeting this Monday, November 24 at 6:45 pm in the Sippican School Multipurpose Room. Andrew Daniel, resident and Planning Board Chair, filed a Citizen’s Petition regarding the separation of water and sewer meters. Leading up to the vote, Daniel spoke to The Wanderer regarding the reasoning for his petition, his drive for filing it, as well as the support he’s garnered in doing so.

            “This started because I was doing a project for my house,” he started, after being asked of the origin of the filing. In doing the work, he said “Man, I’m spending a fortune in sewer fees.” I asked of the importance of his initiative, and the timing of it. He referred to the town’s past, saying , “they’ve talked about the second meter as long as I’ve been in town – the timing was kinda perfect.” He continued, “As you start researching, most towns have the ability to split. I noticed Fairhaven, Wareham, Mattapoisett, they had votes similar to this one.” He later continued, “It’s the fair and the right thing to do. I’ve heard it again and again from the other towns. The other towns saw a small increase in water and a decrease in sewers. I don’t think you should be a millionaire to take pride in your property, or water your lawn or wash your car.

            I asked how the public perception has been and whether he has largely heard support or detraction. “I started meeting with people, I heard some sad stories. They had to stop taking care of their outside because they couldn’t afford it,” he responded. For a Citizen’s Petition, the document needs 100 signatures to be brought forward at Fall Town Meeting. Daniel collected those the final day applications were open, September 18. “I thought there was no way I’d get 100 signatures by the end of the night. I got 120 within like 6 hours.” He said he has gotten support from many residents since filing the petition on the final open-day. “I’ve learned a lot,” he finished.

            He referenced issues and discrepancies he’s detected in town, saying “A lot of people have put in well. If you’re driving around and see a really nice lawn, odds are, it’s a well. They’re expensive and a gamble,” he said, referring to the unknown water quality of well-drilling.

            I referred to the Select Board meeting from October, where Daniel and the board argued over the petition and the Select Board presenting arguments against, cautioning against strikes to the town’s budget. He said, “the Select Board agree, but they’re worried about the financial impact, which I understand.” He finished on budgetary concerns, saying “But it’s all a guess.”

            For his final comments on the petition, Daniel said, “It would be allowing people the opportunity to have a choice. Now they have no choice.” He then stated, should the petition not pass, “At the very least, I got the conversation started.” He finished, “My intent wasn’t to cause trouble. It’s time for the rate-payers to get a small victory. Whenever there’s a debt, the whole town gets a vote, but it’s a small share paying the bill. Give them a choice. That’s it. The premise of it is pretty hard to deny. It’s not going to be a big money-saver to most people. But if I was allowed to put in a second meter, I would definitely take advantage of that. At least I know I’m paying for the services I’m getting.”

            Andrew Daniel’s Citizen’s Petition is to be Article 2 of the Fall Town Meeting. Article 1 is the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) bylaw, to align the town’s regulations with those put forth by the Environmental Protection Agency. The MS4 Bylaw was largely worked on by the Planning Board, which Daniel is the Chair. “It’s going to be the Andrew Daniel meeting at this point.” He joked. “Hopefully we get a lot of people talking.”

By Sam Bishop

A Third of a Century

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            As we approach November 21, a date that marks the unique 33 1/3-year anniversary of The Wanderer, I can’t help but reflect on our journey. It’s a milestone that sets us apart, having published our first edition on July 24, 1992. This must be some record, 33 1/3, a third of a century. It’s not like 45 or 72 years, but I imagine that joke will be lost on a lot of younger folks. For that third of a century, as some folks know, I’ve been running the show, so to speak. Week in and week out for 1,700 editions now. That’s a lot of ink! And it’s all thanks to your unwavering support and readership that we’ve been able to reach this milestone.

            Recently, I’ve been thinking about the future, both mine and my legacy, The Wanderer. It’s important to me that The Wanderer continues to support the community. I have some years left; after all, Donald Jason ran the Presto Press for 36 years, another record to pursue. That gives me about three years to find a successor, but it must be the right transition.

            Over the years, I’ve gained a profound understanding of the vital role local journalism plays in our community. It’s not just about reporting the news, but also about empowering you, our readers, with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions. Did you know that many sources show an increase in local government budget costs without local professional journalism? It’s a fact that underscores the importance of our work. I usually refrain from such discussions, as they might be perceived as self-promotion however, it’s crucial to be transparent and let our readers know the importance of knowledge. Therefore, it is vital to continue The Wanderer, even after I move on, to ensure you continue to have access to this vital information.

            While I have time, years even, I want to explore options that will best suit the three towns we have always focused on. One option is for The Wanderer to be “passed down” to a new publisher. The second option I have started exploring is building a nonprofit collective, with a group of experienced members, to guide the newspaper for future generations. With the right board, it could be very successful, leading to a more comprehensive newspaper than our small team can provide. This would also open the door for endowments and grants. Currently, 100% of our operating costs are covered by advertising sales, but this is affected by the loss of local small businesses, which provide the majority of our revenue. Your Tri-Town paper not only provides community and town government news but also serves as an effective way for local businesses to share their message. You’re reading The Wanderer and proving my point for me right now, thank you!

            As we look ahead to the next third of a century, we are deeply grateful for your unwavering support and readership. The Wanderer exists because of you, and we eagerly anticipate serving as your Tri-town newspaper for many more years. Your feedback is invaluable to us, so please share your thoughts with us at support@wanderer.com. Thank you for being a part of The Wanderer family.

Paul Lopes, Editor

ORRJH Annual Tri-Town Thanksgiving Banquet

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It’s a yearly crossing of the generations, a giving of thanks that unites the youth and the elderly of the three towns that comprise the Old Rochester Regional School District.

            Superintendent Michael S. Nelson, Director of Guidance Christina Cioffi and Old Rochester Regional Junior High School Principal Silas Coellner are proud to announce the upcoming 32nd annual Thanksgiving Dinner for Tri-Town (Marion, Mattapoisett, and Rochester) senior citizens.

            This year’s event has been scheduled for Sunday, November 23, at noon, in the ORRJHS cafeteria (doors will open at 11:15 am), at 133 Marion Road, Mattapoisett.

            “We gather each year to celebrate our senior citizens,” said Principal Coellner. “Our three towns – Marion, Mattapoisett and Rochester – owe so much to our eldest residents. It is so important to bring them together with our students. Like so many of those attending, this gathering gets better every year.”

            The meal has been sponsored by members of the ORRJHS community. Community members donate pies, turkeys, gift cards and door prizes.

            “This yearly Thanksgiving banquet really shows off the best our three towns have to offer,” said Director Cioffi. “Our students always turn out to give their time and effort. So many community members step up and offer so much generosity. And our dinner guests never leave without teaching us all a little something about what makes our towns so special.”

            There are 300 tickets available, 100 per town, and will be distributed through each town’s Council on Aging. Shut-in meals will also be available.

            Last year, more than 230 senior citizens attended the Tri-Town banquet. The event was staffed by 75 students and a hard-working team of staff and parent volunteers.

            “The Thanksgiving Banquet is a longstanding tradition that we all look forward to each and every year,” said Superintendent Nelson. “It’s important that we do our part to give back to Tri-Town residents, and this event is one of the many ways our students and staff show their appreciation for the community’s support.”

            To attend or help reach out to the Marion, Mattapoisett or Rochester Council on Aging with the names and address of the intended recipient. Any individual or local business interested in making cash contributions or donating door prizes should call the ORRJHS at 508-758-4928 and speak with Christina Cioffi, Director of Guidance.

Annual Ecumenical Service

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The Trustees of the Mattapoisett Christian Church invite the public to attend their annual Ecumenical Service on Sunday, November 23, at 2:00 pm. The service will take place at the historic Mattapoisett Christian Church, home of the Mattapoisett Museum, located at 5 Church Street, Mattapoisett. The service will be led by Rev. Michael Frady of the Mattapoisett Congregational Church, with Father Paul Fedak of St. Anthony’s Church and Rheannen Williams from the Mattapoisett Friends Meeting also participating. Michelle Gordon and Karen DeVoe will lead the music. This long-standing community tradition brings together residents and visitors of all faiths to celebrate unity, reflection, and fellowship. All are welcome to attend. For more information, please contact Connor Gaudet at curator@mattapoisettmuseum.org or

visit www.mattapoisettmuseum.org.