Mary E. (Clarke) Kelleher,

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Mary E. (Clarke) Kelleher, 70, of Mattapoisett died Friday, August 29, 2025 at home after a period of declining health.

            She was born and raised in New Bedford and graduated from Holy Name Grammar School and Holy Family High School. Mary graduated from Southeastern Massachusetts University (UMass Dartmouth) and received her Doctor of Laws degree from Boston College Law School. Known for her strong work ethic and commitment to justice, she practiced law for more than 40 years. She served as fishing industry liaison to the U.S. Small Business Administration and concentrated in business law, administrative law and civil litigation. She was a partner of the law firm Koldys and Kelleher, P.C.

            Mary was a gifted athlete from early on. In grade school, neighborhood boys would knock on the door, looking for Mary to join them in a game of football or basketball. Later, she excelled at tennis, winning numerous citywide tournaments. Eventually, she would meet her husband Steve on a tennis court and they often golfed together.

            A talented musician, Mary enjoyed playing guitar for friends and church services. She often performed blues and folk music at coffee houses with her sister Fran. Fishing and relaxing at the cottage in Brewster were other favorite pastimes.

            Mary had a true gift for bringing people together. She loved cooking and hosted countless gatherings, big and small. Her kitchen was always filled with delicious aromas, laughter, and the comforting sense of home. She made everyone feel welcome, and her meals were made with love.

            In recent years she was devoted to her family and was very proud of her daughters Katherine and Laura. She cherished every moment spent with family. Her grandchildren, Elias and Ayla held a special place in her heart. Her face would light up with every tale of their adventures—whether it was a new sport they tried, a funny moment at school, or a skill they proudly mastered. Her love for them was deep and unwavering, and they brought her endless joy and pride.

            Mary is survived by her husband of 36 years, Stephen Kelleher, daughter Katherine Gonzalez and her husband Jonathan, daughter Laura Kelleher, and grandchildren Elias and Ayla. She is also survived by her sister Frances Guilbert, brother John Clarke, and her three nephews, Matthew, Christopher, and John. She was pre-deceased by her parents John and Rita (Swistak) Clarke of New Bedford, and her sister Christina Clarke.

            Her Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, September 6, 2025 at 1 PM at St. Anthony’s Church, 26 Hammond St., Mattapoisett, with everyone meeting directly at Church. Burial will be private. Visiting hours will be held Friday, September 5th from 4-8 PM in the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Rd., Mattapoisett. For directions and guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.

            Flowers and/or memorial contributions to Tunnel to Towers Foundation or the Mattapoisett YMCA are equally welcome.

Flags to Fly for Retiring Members

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                  The Marion Marine Resources Commission held a brief meeting on August 20 at the town’s Maritime Center Conference Room. The meeting spanned less than 13 minutes but was filled with some unforgettable tributes. The Select Board and the MRC gave citations to retiring commissioners: Toby Burr, Greg Houdelette, Peter Borsari, and Eiv Strand.

            Harbormaster Adam Murphy noted that the four Marion residents have collectively logged a “century of care and stewardship to the community.” Adding up the numbers, Murphy said the four men have altogether more than 130 years of combined service.

            Murphy and other officials said these years involved the creation of a harbor patrol, as well as increased use of the harbor and all the oversight needed for that expansion.

            Houdelette has 38 years of experience serving on the MRC, according to Select Board Chairman Randy Parker. Strand has 36 years of service to the MRC; Burr also has 36 years of service, and Borsari has 22.

            “We appreciate your time and work and time away from your family,” Parker said. “It’s a lot of time invested.”

            “The boating community has been nothing short of extraordinary,” Murphy said, noting the benefit to the harbor and many boaters who have enjoyed the harbor. He joked that some have more experience in the MRC conference room than most people have in boating. “I had the pleasure of working with you all,” Murphy said, who has been with the department for 13 years.

            There will be four flags over the harbor. Retiring members will have flags flown in honor of their service at Old Landing, Island Wharf, and Bird Island. Each retiring member will choose the location, and the flag will be flown for the number of days equivalent to each member’s years of service.

            “Not a lot of people see the work they do,” MRC Chairman Vin Malkoski said.

            Houdelette and Strand spoke briefly after the citations, deflecting praise and thanks to those that came before them to lay the foundation for the marine division. They also thanked the work of the current Harbormaster and his staff.

                  The MRC is working on a harbor management plan and is installing floating docks at Island Wharf. Updates are expected at the next MRC meeting scheduled for Wednesday, September 17 at 6:00 pm at the Marion Maritime Center Conference Room.

Marion Marine Resources Commission

By Jeffrey D. Wagner

‘A Proclamation for Suppressing Rebellion and Sedition’

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            This week in Revolutionary War History, let’s discuss what was going on 250 years ago in and around the colonial Province of Massachusetts Bay. Last week, Washington concluded his spout with General Thomas Gage, gunpowder was successfully stolen from Bermuda, and Washington appointed Thomas Mifflin to Quartermaster General in continuing attempts to curb the Continental Army’s supply crisis.

            On August 20, 1775, Washington writes to General Philip Schuyler at Fort Ticonderoga apologizing for supply delays. He says he has met with members of the Continental Congress from Philadelphia, who assured Washington powder will be forwarded north. He also instructs Schuyler to “seek a strict neutrality of the Indian Nations,” or don’t engage in battle with local tribes as to not push them into allying with the British. He also says, if possible, broker offensive alliances. Washington then outlines the most important message of the letter, “The design of this express is to communicate to you a plan of an expedition, which has engrossed my thoughts for several days: It is to penetrate into Canada.”

            While we now benefit from hindsight, the Continental plan was to march north from Ticonderoga, go around Montreal, traverse along the Saint Lawrence River and assault Quebec City. Quebec had, by far, the most population of any Canadian city. Capturing it would secure the loyalist colony and disallow the British from supplying in the region. That’s the thought, at least. There was also the prevailing sentiment that the French Quebecois, having been conquered by the British about 15 years earlier, would ally with the 13 Colonies. Washington promises to send Schuyler an additional 1,000 to 1,200 and envisions Colonel Benedict Arnold leading the incursion.

            A couple days later in keeping with the theme of supply shortages, Jonathan Trumbull of Connecticut writes to Washington saying, “We are greatly exhausted” and states no powder has arrived following his request. He states he and the state General Assembly have encouraged the people of the state to collect saltpeter and sulfur, issuing bounties for both materials essential in powder creation.

            On August 22, Washington’s General Orders stray away from supplies and instead focus on something else. “The General does not mean to discourage the practice of bathing, whilst the weather is warm enough to continue it; but he expressly forbids, any persons doing it, at or near the Bridge in Cambridge, where it has been observed and complained of, that many men, lost to all sense of decency and common modesty, are running about naked upon the bridge, whilst passengers, and even ladies of the first fashion in the neighborhood, are passing over it, as if they meant to glory in their shame: The guards and [s]entries at the Bridge, are to put a stop to this practice for the future.” Incredible. Again, the ragtag group of farmers seriously lacks discipline.

            We move across the pond to London, August 23, 1775. King George III issues and signs a proclamation at Saint James Palace. It is titled, “A Proclamation, by The King, for Suppressing Rebellion and Sedition,” more generally known as the Proclamation of Rebellion. The King states the colonies, “misled by dangerous and ill designing men,” are hostile in their obstruction of commerce and law. Britain now officially sees itself in a full state of war, with the King telling subjects “to use their utmost endeavors to withstand and suppress such rebellion.” There is also a hunt for traitors and conspirators. The Olive Branch Petition, sent to London by the Continental Congress on July 5, was therefore rejected and ignored by King George III.

            In further escalations, on August 25, General Richard Montgomery leads 1,500 men out of Fort Ticonderoga, officially beginning the Quebec Campaign. Benedict Arnold will depart Massachusetts in a few weeks to link up with the general, in an effort to flank Quebec City.

This Week in Revolutionary History…

By Sam Bishop

Drive Safely

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All drivers, regardless of age, are welcome. Become a safe and more confident driver. Take the one-day AARP Smart Driver course on Thursday, September 18, from 9:30 am to 3:00 pm, with a 30 min. lunch break. Refresh your driving skills, plus safer driving can save you MORE than just money. This course teaches proven driving techniques to help keep you and your loved ones SAFE. Upon completion you may be eligible to receive an auto insurance discount. Other restrictions may apply. Consult your auto insurance agent for details.

            For more info., visit ww.aarp.org/driving36. Location: COA, 17 Barstow St., Mattapoisett. Cost: $20 – AARP members; $25 – non-members. Register: 508-758-4110 or coadirector@mattapoisett.gov.

Rochester Historical Museum

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We have received some interesting tools for our exhibit opening on October 4, but we always have room for more. If you have any old tools that reflect Rochester’s earlier industries- mills, cranberries, farming, dairy, hat making, woodworking, etc., we’re happy to accept donations or loaners. You can get in touch by email at eshbach2@aol.com or phone 508-763-4932 or 617-750-2818.

Parks Seek Doubled Budget

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Rochester’s Park Commission on August 21 focused its discussion on needing a bigger budget for FY26.

            Commission Chair David Sylvia said the board hasn’t had a budget increase since he began serving on the board 21 years ago. Its annual allotment is $25,000 for expenses and another $7,000 for salaries. He said the department will likely exhaust its salary account by November due to a part-time employee, an Old Colony Regional Vocational-Technical High School student who is currently maintaining the town’s athletic fields.

            The commissioners concluded they will ask for funding increases as high as double current levels when the next budget cycle rolls around, early next year. As examples of the dilemmas they face, commission member Kenneth Ross said fencing around the athletic fields needs replacing every year. Sylvia said the commission cut back on fertilizer for the fields’ grounds in 2025 to use the funds on other important projects. That cut shaved from the budget $2,000-3,000 for a single application, but the commission said it’s a move that should not be repeated.

            The commission cannot keep cutting back on fertilizer every year, member Nathan Reece said. “Rochester people don’t want their fields to turn into a dust bowl,” he said. The commission needs to update its budget to make it realistic, he noted, as the cost of everything keeps going up.

            The commission agreed to seek some kind of budget increase based on exact calculations of what extra funding they need.

            The commission did not set up its next meeting before adjourning.

Rochester Park Commission

By Michael J. DeCicco

Academic Achievements

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The University of Rhode Island celebrated its newest alumni during the University’s 2025 Commencement on May 16-18, 2025, including:

            –Andrew Coucci of Mattapoisett, graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Finance.

            –Mariana Ditata of Rochester, graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences.

            –Quintin Palmer of Marion, graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Cell and Molecular Biology.

            –Mason Tucker of Marion, graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Music.

South Coast Chamber Music Series

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The South Coast Chamber Music Series offers a Place to Pause. When life moves too fast and the world feels loud, we all need a place to pause. The South Coast Chamber Music Series returns this fall with five weekends of transformative musical storytelling designed to help you slow down, breathe deeper, and reconnect – with yourself, with others, and with the beauty around you.

            From soulful string quartets to joyful piano quintets, this season invites you on a journey through soundscapes that stir the spirit and quiet the mind. Whether you’re seeking inspiration, healing, or just a moment to exhale, there’s space for you here.

            Under the inspired direction of pianist and Artistic Director Janice Weber, the 2025–2026 season is a vibrant mix of the familiar and the unexpected – featuring beloved classics, boundary-pushing works by contemporary composers, and rare gems that surprise and delight.

            Five unforgettable concerts. One intention: to leave you changed.

            Rach ‘n Soul – October 4 and October 5 – Begin in breath, end in brilliance. From Reena Esmail’s meditative Saans to Rachmaninoff’s heart-pounding cello sonata, this program is pure catharsis.

            Quintessentials – November 22 and November 23 – Grace, warmth, and a whole lot of joy. Hear Louise Farrenc’s rarely performed piano quintet paired with Schubert’s “Trout” – a match made in musical heaven.

            Winter Fire – January 31 and February 1 – Melt the midwinter chill with fiery string quartets and Mendelssohn’s soaring piano trio. Music to spark your spirit.

            Story Time – March 28 and March 29 – Let every note tell a tale. From Appalachian traditions to Middle Eastern laments, these works bring global stories to your ears – and your heart.

            Forursomes – May 2 and May 3 – Four voices. Infinite emotion. This season finale delivers serenity and storm alike, with music by Brahms, Roustom, and more.

            Concerts take place Saturdays at 3:00 pm at St. Gabriel’s Episcopal Church in Marion and Sundays at 3:00 pm at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in South Dartmouth. Tickets: Individual concerts: $35 (advanced purchase required), Season subscription: $140 for all five concerts (save 20%. Available through October 3)

            To reserve your seat and find your moment of stillness, visit nbsymphony.org or call 508-999-6276 ext. 222.

            The South Coast Chamber Music Series (SCCMS) was formed to present superior chamber music for the communities of Southeastern Massachusetts. SCCMS held its first subscription series concert on October 20, 2001. Since then, we have performed composers from Bach, Brahms, and Ravel to present-day masters Takemitsu and Piston. Each program presents an engaging array of styles, timbres, and artists in lively acoustic environments in Marion and South Dartmouth. We joined forces with the NBSO in 2014, giving both organizations an opportunity to expand in all directions – more concerts, more musicians, and more music – and are thrilled to connect with our loyal and growing audience.

Welcome Home

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On Sunday, September 7 at 10 am the Mattapoisett Congregational Church will hold its annual homecoming in the sanctuary at 27 Church Street in Mattapoisett. Everyone in the tri-town area is invited to celebrate with us in worship with a Blessing of the Backpacks for students returning to school (children are encouraged to bring their backpacks to church).

            Traditionally, representatives from the police and fire departments are recognized for their caring service to the people of Mattapoisett. Following worship at 10 am, there will be games for the children, registration for Sunday School and ice cream on the lawn. There will be fun and fellowship for all.

            Please join us at 10:00 am; we look forward to meeting you. Contact the church office with any questions at 508-758-2671 or mattcongchurch@gmail.com.

Fun Volunteer Opportunity

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By becoming a”Hospital Caring Clown” with The Smile Factory Clowns, located at 88 Hatch Street, Suite 213, in New Bedford you can have fun volunteering in our three local hospitals; St. Lukes, Charlton Memorial and Tobey Hospitals. Classes are Tuesday evenings from 6:30 pm to 8:45 pm for 10 weeks. They begin on September 16 with graduation in November/December. Each class is $20, which covers items given out. Our students are from our Marion, Mattapoisett, Fairhaven, and surrounding communities. Come have fun and experience the heartfelt touch your clown journey can have on your heart and others. Classes are taught by multi award winning clown of over 35 years, Elaine “Daisy D.Dots” Vercellone. Please e-mail: thesmilefactoryclowns@gmail.com or call: 201-388-0225 to find out more or reserve your spot. Only 6 Class spots remain for this class session. Come have fun with us!