Making Fast Work of It

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Rochester Memorial School’s solar array is nearing completion. Though it is not online yet, the tall solar canopies are erected over the north parking lot of the school. The Rochester Planning Board, in August, approved a Site Plan Review and Special Permit for construction of the array to take place during the school year.

            Construction started this month, with the contractor, Solect Energy Development of Hopkinton, expecting completion of the project by the end of December, just in time for the holiday school break.

            Teachers at RMS have been told they will get their parking spaces back soon-ish. One hundred percent of the panels are mounted into the ground, with concrete poured around their bases. Last week, there was a site cleanup, and touchup painting was done. This week, trenching began for electrical conduits needed between each solar column. This is expected to be completed by the end of the month.

            Following the completion of the site trenching, heavy equipment won’t be necessary on site, per Solect Energy Development. In October, electrical work, mainly wiring, will commence. Panels need to be wired together and to the conduits. Lighting must be installed and wired underneath each canopy as well. Finally, electricity must flow to the school with wiring to the school’s electrical room.

            The big part is done, and in a few months, should everything go according to schedule, RMS will harness the power of the sun, the teachers will get their spots back, and student drop-off will go back to normal.

Rochester Memorial School Solar Array Update

By Sam Bishop

Upcoming Events at the Elizabeth Taber Library

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The Elizabeth Taber Library will remain closed on Sundays for the remainder of 2025.

            On Wednesday, October 8 at 11:00 am The Cozy Cup Book Club will be discussing Rita Mae Brown’s Claws for Alarm. As always there is free tea and coffee. Copies are available at the circulation desk in the Library. Registration requested.

            Join us in welcoming Jeff Belanger back to the Elizabeth Taber Library with Wicked Strange New England: Your Guide to Ghosts, Monsters, Oddities and Urban Legends from New England, Friday October 10 at 6:00 pm. Copies of Jeff’s newest work will be available for purchase during the program. No Registration required.

            The Banned Book Club will meet at the Library on Tuesday October 14 at 6:00 pm to discuss the horror classic Dracula by Bram Stoker. All are welcome to attend, find copies available at the circulation desk.

            October 25 at 10:30 am, Adult Craft Drop-in. Stop by to create a book pumpkin, cross stitch a pattern, or paint a fall scene. No Registration Required

            The Elizabeth Taber Library is hosting author Gwendolyn Wallace for a reading and author talk on Saturday, October 4 at 1:00 pm. Gwendolyn is the author of picture books Joy Takes Root, The Light She Feels Inside, and Dancing with Water. This program is best for kids ages 5+ and their grownups – but all are welcome.

            Kids can sign up now for our October kids book clubs. These groups will meet on Thursday at 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Nonfiction Nerds – a club for readers who love facts or need a little help while reading – will meet Thursday, October 2 to discuss When Moon Became the Moon. Grab a copy at the circulation desk today.

            The Elizabeth Taber Library will close as 12 on Friday, October 3 for an all-staff meeting.

            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.

ORR Alumni Trail Race

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The Old Rochester Regional (ORR) community is gearing up for the 2nd Annual ORR Alumni Trail Race, taking place on Monday, October 13 at 9:00 am at scenic Washburn Park in Marion. Runners, walkers, and supporters of all levels are invited to participate in this exciting event, with all proceeds benefiting the Old Rochester cross country and track and field teams.

            Following the success of last year’s inaugural race, which raised over $500, the ORR Alumni Trail Race aims to continue its tradition of fostering community spirit and supporting student-athletes. The racecourse offers a picturesque trail run, perfect for alumni, current students, family members, and local running enthusiasts.

            Registration and information available at: runsignup.com/Race/MA/Marion/ORRAlumniTrailRace

            Proceeds from the race will directly support the ORR cross country and track and field programs, helping to provide equipment, uniforms, and other opportunities for student-athletes.

            Whether you’re a seasoned runner or looking to reconnect with the ORR community, the Alumni Trail Race is a great way to stay active and support a great cause.

Fall Migrants and Winter Arrivals at Old Aucoot

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Join the Mattapoisett Land Trust and the Nasketucket Bird Club on Saturday September 27 at 8:00 am for an early morning birding adventure. This birding walk will be led by Michael Labossiere from the Nasketucket Bird Club. It will be an easy relaxed morning in the woods and field and a wonderful opportunity to learn about local birdlife. Let’s see who is setting up residence for the winter in the woods along Old Slough Road and in the meadow at Grace Pond.

            The walk will take place at MLT’s Old Aucoot District at Grace Pond. Meet at 8:00 am at the brand new MLT parking area at the end of Bowman Road near Grace Pond. Bring your binoculars and dress appropriately for the outdoors, including sturdy footwear. This is a free event open to all. Hope to see you there. Email Sarah at manager@mattlandtrust.org with any questions.

Peace Corps

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To the Editor:

            Peace Corps at 64. September 22nd marks a major milestone in the history of the Peace Corps. On this day in 1961, President John F. Kennedy signed into law the original Peace Corps Act, which formally authorized this unique and independent agency that has become perhaps the most recognizable example of U.S. goodwill to millions of people around the world.

            Now, 64 years later, nearly 250,000 American citizens have proudly served our country in more than 140 nations. This includes numerous tri-town and South Coast residents.

            The Peace Corps has a long history of strong bipartisan support. And, while our current political and social dynamics present unprecedented challenges, that support continues today. In its budget request to Congress, the Trump administration has requested level funding of $430 million for the Peace Corps in the upcoming fiscal year. Meanwhile, lawmakers in the House and Senate, Republicans and Democrats, are coming together to introduce legislation to recognize the good works of Peace Corps volunteers with its highest civilian honor – a Congressional Gold Medal.

            At a time when our country and world yearns for more peace and understanding, more civility, and more cooperative engagement, all fellow citizens are urged to support efforts to recognize the selfless, inspiring work of our past and present and future Peace Corps Volunteers, and to provide the Peace Corps with the resources it needs to continue and thrive in the years to come.

            Sincerely,

John P. Mello, Rochester

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.

ORRHS Receives National Banner Recognition from Special Olympics

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Superintendent Michael S. Nelson and Principal Michael Devoll are proud to announce that Special Olympics North America is awarding Old Rochester Regional High School with National Banner recognition for its work to provide inclusive sports and activities for students with and without intellectual disabilities.

            Old Rochester Regional High School was one of only 17 schools in Massachusetts and 217 nationwide to achieve this status for the 2024-25 school year. The high school was recognized by Special Olympics’ national certifying body, based on the school’s Special Olympics Unified Champion School programming, which it officially established during the 2020-21 school year.

            Old Rochester Regional High School earned the National Banner recognition by meeting Special Olympics’ 10 national standards of excellence for inclusion, advocacy and respect, for its work in the areas of sports, leadership and whole school engagement opportunities, resulting in a school environment that promotes inclusion and respect for all. To receive the recognition, National Banner schools also need to demonstrate their Unified Champion Schools programs are self-sustainable.

            “Congratulations to Old Rochester Regional High School for receiving National Banner recognition from Special Olympics North America,” said Patti Doherty, Vice President of Schools and Community Development for Special Olympics Massachusetts, in an announcement to the school district. “The athletes, partners, students, coaches, volunteers, teachers, staff and administration at Old Rochester Regional High School have all played key roles in creating a social climate where everyone feels included and respected for who they are.”

            ORRHS has offered unified basketball and unified track for boys and girls in all high school grade levels, as well as those in the district’s 18-22 program, along with other athletic activities. The unified teams consist of students with and without intellectual disabilities, who come together in partnership and support one another.

            “We are honored to have such a strong and fully inclusive school as yours recognized for the hard work and dedication you demonstrate daily to continuously grow and strengthen your program,” Doherty said. “Your school and leadership team are a model for other schools, and we look forward to new heights you will reach tomorrow and in years to come.”

            The Unified Champion Schools program provides a model for schools from Pre-K through the university level. More than 369 schools participated in Unified Champion programming in Massachusetts as of fall 2024.

            The Unified Champion Schools model is also supported by the Office of Special Education Programs at the U.S. Department of Education. The model has been proven through research to be an effective way to provide students with and without disabilities the opportunity to form positive social relationships and to promote a socially inclusive school climate.

            Schoolnton, a special education teacher, who is head coach of the Unified Basketball, Unified Track and Unified Strength and Conditioning teams at Old Rochester Regional High School, thanked all the students, staff, teachers and community members who helped achieve the National Banner recognition. Fenton also credited Athletic Director Chris Carrig, the school’s Special Olympics liaison, for all that he does to support the program.

            “Achieving National Banner School recognition from Special Olympics has been a goal of ours, and we are thrilled to see it become a reality,” said Fenton, who is also co-advisor of the Unified Bulldogs Club, a student club that supports the school’s Unified Sports programs. “This honor reflects the dedication of our Unified athletes, families, staff, administration, and the entire student body. From Unified Bulldogs Club to our Unified Plant Sale, Unified Peer Partners course, Unified PE, and Unified Sports, there is truly something for everyone at ORR. We are grateful to be able to offer these opportunities, and proud that Special Olympics and Unified programming have made ORR a stronger, more inclusive community. It’s been amazing to watch students connect, support each other, and build real friendships through these programs. The joy and sense of belonging it brings to our school is something really special.”

            Superintendent Nelson and Principal Devoll each thanked Special Olympics and congratulated all of the volunteers and participants in Unified Sports at Old Rochester Regional High School.

            “Earning this National Banner recognition is one of the most important achievements ever for Old Rochester Regional High School,” said Principal Devoll. “Meeting the criteria for this award shows that our Unified Champion Schools program is helping to equip our young people with the knowledge and skills needed to help create inclusive opportunities in the areas of sports, education and community. Doing so engages our young people to improve the world around them, reducing bullying and promoting healthy interactions, while counteracting stereotypes, stigmas and hurtful language.”

            “This is an immense honor for Old Rochester Regional High School to receive this distinction from Special Olympics,” said Superintendent Nelson. “Inclusivity is a core value for Old Rochester Regional School District and MA Superintendency Union #55. We are proud that our high school is achieving and surpassing high standards for the inclusion of students with and without intellectual disabilities, bringing us together through sports and other community activities. Congratulations to all of our teachers, staff and students who helped achieve this together.”

Mattapoisett Special Town Meeting

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The Town of Mattapoisett will be holding a Special Town Meeting on Saturday, October 4 at 1:00 pm. This meeting will be held at Old Rochester Regional High School, 135 Marion Road. Voter check-in will begin at 12:00 pm. Please plan to arrive early to help avoid long lines. The warrant for the Special Town Meeting is posted on the town website. Copies are also available at Town Hall during normal business hours. Please call or email the Town Clerk’s Office with any questions at 508-758-4100 x2.

Sheila Anne Carvalho

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Sheila Anne Carvalho of Mattapoisett, Massachusetts passed away peacefully on September 19, 2025 at the age of 66, surrounded by the love of family after a courageous battle with cancer.

            Born in New Bedford on December 5, 1958, Sheila was the only child of the late William J. and Norma (Almeida) Carvalho. After graduation from New Bedford High School, Sheila pursued her Bachelor’s degree in Biology from Southeastern Massachusetts University (UMass Dartmouth). She then went to graduate school at North Carolina State University, where she received her Master’s degree in Botany.

            Upon graduating, Sheila began working at Massachusetts General Hospital as a laboratory technician, during which time she met her future husband, Brian Smith. Sheila had a successful 35-year career in life sciences and healthcare, advancing to become Product Line Manager, Cell Culture Media at both Millipore Corporation and Corning Life Sciences.

            In 1989, Sheila and Brian married in Fairhaven, MA. Shortly thereafter they moved to Tewksbury and later Westford, MA to raise a family, which became Sheila’s greatest source of pride and joy. One of their fondest family traditions was an annual trip to Sanibel Island, Florida, where Sheila could often be found in the “Sanibel stoop” while combing the beach for seashells. Sheila was a skilled cook and, in true Portuguese fashion, showed her love of friends and family through incredible homemade meals on holidays and special occasions.

            Sheila inherited a great love of animals from her father, which she passed on to her children. Together they adopted many pets including birds, gerbils, and guinea pigs, in addition to her many beloved cats and dogs. She had a sharp sense of humor and was always ready with a clever joke, usually at Brian’s expense. Her love of pop culture gave her the edge in trivia games and the ability to guess the surprise reveals and plot twists of just about any show or movie. Her passion for games and puzzles made for many days and nights of family fun. She was a loyal fan of the New England Patriots and especially Tom Brady, whose wins she continued to celebrate after he departed for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

            From seashells on the beach to antiques at a yard sale, Sheila loved the thrill of finding treasures hidden in plain sight. She had a strong sense of design and a love of curating vintage collectibles and ephemera, which she proudly displayed in her historic seaside home in the picturesque village of Mattapoisett. Upon retirement, she used her deep knowledge of vintage treasures to run a business buying and selling antiques.

            Sheila was a beautiful, vibrant woman who will be dearly missed.

            She is survived by her husband Brian, daughter Rachael Smith and husband Richard Ayoub, Jr. of Wilmington, MA, daughter Lauren Smith of Providence, RI, and many cousins including Claudia Mathews of Newburyport and her companion Mohamed Saadi.

            Her visiting hours will be held on Friday, September 26th from 4:00-7:00 pm in the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Rd. (Rt. 6), Mattapoisett, MA. Her funeral service will be held on Saturday, September 27th at 11:00 am in the funeral home. Burial will follow in Riverside Cemetery, Fairhaven, MA.

            In lieu of flowers, you may wish to make a donation in Sheila’s name to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Humane Society & Shelter SouthCoast, or your favorite charity. For directions and guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.

Robert K. Kirkland

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Robert K. Kirkland, 83, of Mattapoisett died Sunday, September 21, 2025 at Alpine Nursing Home in Coventry, RI, after a period of declining health. He was the husband of the late Barbara M. (Harriman) Kirkland, with whom he shared 34 wonderful and memorable years of marriage.

Born in Natick, MA, son of the late Alexander and Louise (Kelley) Kirkland, he lived in Roslindale and Needham before moving to Mattapoisett where he lived for most of his life.

He was a graduate of Needham High School, Class of 1960.

Bob was formerly employed by NYNEX Corporation for 31 years until his retirement. In retirement, Bob was employed at the Town of Mattapoisett Transfer Station for 11 years.

An active member of the Wareham Lodge of Elks for 55 years, Bob helped with dinners and events at the club. In 1994, he was honored as Elk of the Year.

A well-liked and respected member of the community, Bob enjoyed visiting local bars and restaurants with his wife, Barbara. His warm presence and easy smile will be deeply missed.

He is survived by his sister, Jeanne Kirkland; his brother, Jon Kirkland; his niece, Jessica Lindeman; and his nephew, Donald Kirkland.

He was predeceased by his wife, Barbara; his sister, Elizabeth Segeberg; and his brother, Donald Kirkland.

His Funeral Service will be held on Monday, September 29, 2025 at 11 AM at the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Rd. (Rt.6), Mattapoisett. Visitation will be Monday from 10-11 AM, prior to the service. Burial will follow in Cushing Cemetery. For directions and guestbook please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.

A Conversation on Housing, Healthcare, Environment

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Newly elected State Representative Mark Sylvia is inviting residents to a community meeting that promises to be both engaging and forward-thinking. The event will take place on Tuesday, October 14, at 6:00 pm at the Mattapoisett Public Library. It will serve as a platform for open dialogue on the issues that matter most to local families, seniors, and workers.

            “In many ways, housing is a key indicator of a healthy community,” Sylvia said recently. With a deep commitment to responsible development, Sylvia will share his vision for expanding affordable housing across the South Coast – ensuring that growing families have room to thrive and seniors can age in place with dignity in livable, community-oriented neighborhoods.

            But housing is just the beginning.

            Representative Sylvia will emphasize the critical importance of prioritizing health care access and affordability. He will openly discuss ways to strengthen the healthcare infrastructure, ensuring it serves everyone more effectively.

            Environmental stewardship will be another key theme of the evening. Sylvia is expected to outline his plans to preserve the region’s natural beauty, combat overdevelopment, and confront the impacts of climate change.

            Representative Sylvia will champion the local industries that define the region’s identity – from fishing and cranberry growing to tourism.

            This is more than a meeting. It’s an invitation to shape the future of the South Coast together on Tuesday, October 14 at 6:00 pm, at the Mattapoisett Public Library, Mattapoisett.

            All residents are encouraged to attend, ask questions, and share their perspectives. Representative Sylvia believes that real leadership begins with listening—and this meeting is just the beginning. For more information, contact: lwvsouthcoast.org or Betty DeBenedictis at 617-722-2800 X 7962.