Farewell to the Class of 2017

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Last Friday, the Class of 2017 walked the halls for the final time as current students of Old Rochester Regional High School for their farewell assembly. In the presence of the entire high school, the seniors had one last look back on the past four years before they graduated. The concert band played “Pomp and Circumstance,” the classic graduation march, as the class filed into the gymnasium while the underclassmen gave them a standing ovation.

“Today is when we seniors should look at the people around us … these are the ones who helped shape us into who we are today,” Class President Brooke Santos stated of the ceremony during her opening speech. Her words perfectly summarized the assembly, as it focused on celebrating the many aspects of the senior class that had not been touched upon the previous night during the senior class awards ceremony.

This reminiscing began as Class Vice President Jacob Cafarella gave the traditional speech chronicling the highlights of the graduating class’ time at the high school. Included in this recap were the achievements of winning the homecoming skit back to back, and the second annual Powderpuff game between Wareham High School and ORRHS.

Their sophomore year, the boys’ basketball team took home the state championship and the girls’ hurdle squad placed seventh in the nation. Overall, the members of the senior class helped bring home 42 SCC titles and three state championships during their four years.

The first two of many musical performances followed Cafarella’s speech, as Aaron Norcross played “Soulshine” on the guitar and Joe Gauvin’s band “Retro Roots” gave a performance of “Simple Man” by Lynyrd Skynyrd.

Next, Coleen Garcia and Tessa Camboia, two active members of the American Field Service club at the high school, recognized the two exchange students who joined the ranks at ORR this past year. Garam Darwish from Israel sat amongst the seniors as she was set to graduate with them while Vicente Gonzalez from Mexico was seated with his fellow juniors. The two exchange students were given presents on behalf of the AFS club before a slideshow of the club’s activities this year were shown, including a cross-country trip to California.

“It’s been an experience of a lifetime,” Darwish said.

The mixed chorus took the stage next with an a capella version of Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” with solos by juniors Caroline Regis and Julia Melloni, sophomores Kelly Bruce and Lilah Gendreau, and freshman Sarah Melloni. The gymnasium erupted into cheers as Sports Director Bill Tilden performed the “spooky speech” at the ending of the song.

Gabe Noble-Shriver, the president of the junior class, then gave a speech based on the “exchanging of power” from the seniors to the juniors.

“Each and every person who has graduated from ORR … has strived to be the best they can be,” Noble-Shriver said. “We will draw upon the skills we have observed and learned from your senior year.”

Between the music, the senior class government took the time to thank their staff advisors, English teachers Megan Hall and Michael Beson, and gifted the two with bouquets. They also announced that the Class of 2017’s gift to the high school would be the donation of new picnic benches for the courtyard. Members of the senior class are allowed to eat outside in this area (when the New England weather permits it), and more tables would allow for more students in the allowed group to enjoy the privilege.

The final event of the assembly was the traditional “senior slideshow,” although much of this year’s was in video format. The video looked back on the many activities the class did this past year, from the Ned’s Point picnic in September and homecoming in October to Mr. ORR and prom. The recap of their final year closed off the seniors’ farewell assembly in an emotional yet hopeful way as their sights turned toward what lies ahead in their future.

The seniors graduated on Saturday, June 3 at noon. Valedictorian Hannah Guard, quoting Dr. Suess, told the graduates, “With your head full of brains and shoes full of feet, you’re too smart to go down any not-so-good street.”

Best wishes to the graduating Class of 2017, and good luck in all of your future endeavors.

By Jo Caynon

‘Joint’ Prefers New Two-year Eval Cycle

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The consensus amongst the joint school committees is that having a two-year evaluation process is more successful than the one-year evaluation process.

On May 31, Superintendent Doug White presented his mid-cycle review of the Tri-Town school districts’ goals and their progress towards meeting those goals.

With the assistance of a subcommittee charged with forming and developing these goals, White says the school districts have seen much progress on the focus areas selected, while giving administration and staff more time to plan, execute, and chart progress, and meet expectations.

“We felt that having the longer time frame really got the chance to put a focus on those types of goals that we wanted to see within our school district and this committee was just great from the start,” White said.

Particular emphasis is placed on meeting the social-emotional needs of students of the Old Rochester Regional School District as well as within the three towns’ school districts.

“It’s all about doing everything for every single student that’s in our building,” said White. “All students receive social-emotional learning support.”

White described some of the interactive opportunities to foster social-emotional wellbeing, including some older students attending a production at The Zeiterion Theater about drug abuse. The school also hosted a viewing of the documentary “Screenagers,” hired a BCBA (board certified behavior analyst), and will implement a health curriculum at Sippican School this year.

At the high school, particular interest is placed on the development of an “intervention block” when all students would meet with guidance staff for academic and social support. Also, the school has secured an intern psychologist from the University of Rhode Island at a reduced cost for further student support.

Data that has come back from a “Community Cares Survey” will also help the districts pinpoint other areas where social-emotional support is needed.

A new kindergarten transition program at Sippican School will be implemented next year in Rochester and Mattapoisett after success in Marion. Kindergartners will enter kindergarten and will be observed and assessed before being placed in the appropriate setting.

The ANCHOR Program at Sippican also resulted in successfully reaching out to parents in the community who might need more encouragement connecting with the school staff, so White is looking to expand the program to the two other towns.

Budget enrichment is also a focus area, with particular attention being paid to the School Choice program and how it will enhance the ORR budget this fiscal year. Following and monitoring the $603,000 Capital Plan is also essential, White said.

“I feel that if there’s any goal that the committee is well in tune with, it’s the budget,” said White.

The school districts also have their sights set on expanding outreach through various media sources to connect the school with parents, community members, and town officials.

Technology and the technology knowledge of the staff and students were also emphasized to have the greatest impacts on teaching and learning, White said.

Academic rigor is also emphasized, with an example of carrying out this goal being additional Advanced Placement offerings at the high school.

“The fact that we had a year to work on these goals and really get into the trenches was much more productive than setting them in October, working on them … in January, and then having to be done with it now,” said White.

ORR School Committee member Michelle Smith said the two-year cycle is an easier way to go about the evaluation process.

“We felt more connected and more a part of this process with you,” said Smith. ”We really worked well as a team as well. We did an amazing job. Just looking back at what we’ve done this year, it’s really amazing.”

Marion School Committee Chairman Christine Marcolini added, “I loved the format, too. It was really informative.”

The next meeting of the joint school committees is scheduled for September 28 at 6:30 pm in the junior high school media room.

Joint Meeting of the School Committees

By Jean Perry

 

Plight of the Pollinators

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Pollinators play a vital role in a productive ecosystem. About 75 percent of the fruits and vegetables we eat depend on pollinators for their survival, including apples, almonds, blueberries, citrus, pears, plums, pumpkins, and squash.

Currently, the United States and the rest of the world are facing massive declines in pollinator populations, which could have a direct impact on the quality and quantity of global produce.

There are approximately 4,000 species of native bees in the U.S., the majority of which are currently at risk.

Scientists attribute the collapse of these beneficial colonies to environmental pollution and exposure to pesticides. However, the decline in plant diversity in commercial agriculture and the loss of natural habitats may also be limiting the range of nutrients provided from common pollinator food sources like nectar and pollen.

At home, gardeners can create supportive pollinator environments by planting wildflowers and native species, constructing diverse plantings, building bee habitats, and avoiding the use of pesticides.

According to experts, perfectly manicured gardens are not ideal for sustaining bee populations, as they do not provide the raw materials wild bees need to construct nests.

At home, you can provide good nesting environments by preserving small brush piles, as well as areas with dry grasses and dead wood. These small efforts can play an important role in sustaining local bee populations by helping pollinators survive and thrive, which will ultimately lead to more productive and healthy local harvests.

The Marion Garden Group is involved in multiple efforts to create healthy pollinator environments in the local community. One such effort is the EmpowORR Garden, a pollinator haven recently created at Old Rochester Regional High School.

The garden was made possible by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, whose grant to the New England Wild Flower Society facilitated the development of “Pollinate New England,” an educational outreach program designed to build a network of gardens throughout New England. The Society provides pollinator garden workshops and installations, manuals for garden maintenance, and social media networks where those involved can share results and observations.

The Marion Garden Group is also working to sustain local bee populations by setting up and maintaining local beehives.

According to New England Beekeeping, estimated costs for just one residential hive exceed $1,000 per year. To support our local hives, the Marion Garden Group has started a project called “Bee a Benefactor,” which means anyone can get involved in the effort to save the bees with donations starting at just $5. The Garden Group will provide matching funds for all donations.

To learn more or to get involved, contact Liz Hatch at liz.hatch1@gmail.com.

By Jacqueline E. Hatch

 

Patricia L. (Govoni) Allard

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Patricia L. (Govoni) Allard, 79 of Mattapoisett died June 8, 2017 peacefully at Brookdale Dartmouth Village.
She was the wife of Edwin Warner Allard.

Born in New Bedford, the daughter of the late Louis and Juliette (Dias) Govoni, she was raised in Fairhaven and lived in Mattapoisett most of her life.

Mrs. Allard was formerly employed by Schaffer Marine for 38 years until her retirement.

She enjoyed traveling.

Her family would like to extend special thanks to the staff of Brookdale Dartmouth Village and New England

Hospice for the excellent care given to Patricia.

Survivors include her husband; her dear friend, Khristina Stykowski; and 3 nephews.

She was the sister of the late Robert Govoni and the aunt of the late Robert Govoni, Jr.

Her Funeral will be held on Tuesday at 9:30 AM from the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Rd., Route 6, Mattapoisett, followed by her Funeral Mass at St. Joseph’s Church in Fairhaven at 10:30 AM.

Visiting hours will be on Monday from 5-7 PM. Burial will follow in the Massachusetts National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to New England Hospice, 190 Old Derby St., Suite 304, Hingham, MA 02043. For directions and guestbook, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.

Lawrence Dale McAtee

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Lawrence Dale McAtee, 96, of Marion died June 2, 2017 at home. He was the husband of Alvera Mae (Sander) McAtee.

Born in Viola, IL, he was the son of the late Rolla B. and Lena B. (Terrey) McAtee.  He graduated from the University of Iowa in 1948 and has lived in Marion since 2003.  He attended the First Congregational Church in Marion.

Mr. McAtee worked as a Regional Manager for the Maytag Company for 34 years before retiring.

During World War II, Mr. McAtee served in the U.S. Army Air Force.  He served from 1942 to 1946 and was a radio operator instructor.

Survivors include his wife of 74 years, Alvera Mae (Sander) McAtee; two sons, Capt. Thomas McAtee, USN (Retired) of Ft. Monroe, VA, and James D. McAtee of Fairfield, OH; a daughter, Barbara A. McAtee of Marion; three grandchildren, Ian DaSilva, Dale DaSilva, and Leland DaSilva.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.  Burial will be in the Massachusetts National Cemetery, Bourne.

Arrangements are by the Chapman, Cole & Gleason Funeral Home, Wareham.  To leave a message of condolence visit: www.ccgfuneralhome.com

 

Seniors Return For One Last Sentimental Walk

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It’s a long walk through the hallways of time for a person on their way to Point B from Point A, but in retrospect that walk can seem like an awfully short one, which is what some graduating seniors of the Old Rochester Regional Class of 2017 experienced on Friday, June 2, the day before their graduation.

The annual “Senior Walk” is a new tradition; nonetheless, it is one that has rapidly taken hold at the high school and the four elementary schools that produced the graduates of today after years of dedication and nurturing.

Friday was the day when the 2017 graduating seniors returned once more to their respective elementary schools and entered those doors for the last time as students before graduating and moving on from that hallmark of life to the next.

Many arrived at Rochester Memorial School to witness the occasion, as seniors disembarked the bus that brought them to their alma mater for one last goodbye to their student selves, bringing with them inspiration to the elementary school kiddos and pride to their former teachers.

“What a wonderful tradition. I just love it,” said Rochester School Committee member Robin Rounseville as the guests, teachers, administration, and RMS students all lined up against the walls of the corridors to await the arrival of the 2017 graduates from Rochester.

After a few photos in front of the school, the seniors entered the building to the traditional tune of “Pomp and Circumstance,” also known as ‘the graduation march song,’ ringing throughout the building over the loudspeaker. As they marched down the halls dressed in their ORR-red regalia, students clapped and cheered and sought high-fives from the passing grads.

“Way to go!” “Great job!” “Congratulations!” the kids called out. Teachers could be overheard telling their elementary students that they, too, would one day walk the halls of RMS as seniors.

Some grads openly expressed emotion. Others just smiled brightly and widely.

Favorite teachers from the past, most notably Danni Kleiman who is retiring at the end of this school year, were ready with outstretched arms for a congratulatory hug and posed for photos before the students took the walk outside to the playground scrambling with kids in the midst of the RMS Fitness Field Day. The seniors then re-boarded their bus and returned to the high school. Graduation was held Saturday, June 3.

By Jean Perry

Take a Morning Bird Walk with the BBC

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Take a walk with the Coalition and experienced local birder Nate Marchessault to look and listen for songbirds, shorebirds, and raptors on Saturday, June 10 at 8:00 am at Nasketucket Bay State Reservation in Mattapoisett. This free morning walk will follow the trail through the woods to the beach overlooking Nasketucket Bay.

Pre-registration is required for this free program. To RSVP or to get more information, visit www.savebuzzardsbay.org/events/nasketucket-bay-bird-walk-jun-10-2017/ or contact the Buzzards Bay Coalition at 508-999-6363 ext. 219 or bayadventures@savebuzzardsbay.org.

This event is part of Discover Buzzards Bay, an initiative to help people across the Buzzards Bay region find unique and exciting ways to explore the outdoors, get some exercise and connect with nature. Local residents can use Discover Buzzards Bay to get outside and discover woods, wetlands and waterways from Fall River to Falmouth. To learn more, visit savebuzzardsbay.org/discover. Discover Buzzards Bay is sponsored by Southcoast Health.

ORR Class of 1977

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Calling all classmates. The ORRHS class of 1977 will be celebrating their 40th reunion on Saturday, July 29, at the Reservation Golf Club, 10 Reservation Road, Mattapoisett, from 6:00 pm – midnight. The cost is $40 per person. Any questions or information, please call Lori Gibbs Crawley at 508-364-7610.

Academic Achievements

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Madeline Meyer of Marion has been named to the 2017 spring semester Dean’s List at Ohio Wesleyan University. To earn Dean’s List recognition, Ohio Wesleyan students must achieve a grade point average of 3.5 or better on a 4.0 scale in all applicable classes.

Sophia Santos of Marion graduated from Emmanuel College and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics.

Madelyn Pellegrino of Mattapoisett graduated from Emmanuel College and earned a Bachelor of Arts in English – Communication & Media Studies.

Emma Nizzari, an English major from Mattapoisett, and William Saunders, a Pre Funeral Service major also from Mattapoisett, were named to the Dean’s List at Mount Ida College.

Mattapoisett resident Paige Watterson received Academic Honors at Northeastern University for the spring semester 2017 dean’s list.

The following UMass Dartmouth students are named to the Chancellor’s List in recognition of earning a spring 2017 semester grade point average of 3.8 or higher of a possible 4.0:

From Marion: Colby Garstang, Ian Hibbert, and Derek Marshall

From Mattapoisett: Mya Akins, Isabella Bernardi, Abigail Field, Shannon Lynch, and Casey Mackenzie

From Rochester: Lauren Gaspar, Julieann Jones, Kevin Newell, Nicholas Pavao, and Benjamin Resendes

The following students are named to the spring 2017 Dean’s list at UMass Dartmouth in recognition of earning a semester grade point average of 3.2 or higher of a possible 4.0.

From Marion: Zachary Angelo, Oliver Asker, Ashley Dauphinee, Evan Martinez, Samuel McDonald, Jillian Reichert, Catharine Ryer, and Robert Stickles

From Mattapoisett: Samantha Allaire, William Coucci, Shelby Cunningham, Madeleine Lee, James Leidhold, Molly Magee, Allison McGlynn, Myles McQuade, Kelly Merlo, Madison Miedzionoski, Laura Morse, and Christina Musser

From Rochester: Andrew Frey, Jordan Frey, Kyle Hardy, Mallory Kiernan, Carly Pelissier, and Riley Sherman.

Curry College is proud to announce that the following Tri-Town students were named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2017 semester: Ryan Beatty of Rochester; Conor Brown of Marion; Victoria Caton of Mattapoisett; Meghan Desrochers of Rochester; and Naomi Souza of Rochester.

Springfield College has named Ashley Pacheco of Rochester to the Dean’s List for academic excellence for the spring 2017 term. Pacheco is studying Health Science/Pre-physician Assistant.

Katelyn Cummings of Mattapoisett was awarded a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing summa cum laude during Salve Regina University’s 67th commencement on Sunday, May 21.

Lasell College recently named Schyler Oliveira of Rochester, to the Lasell College Dean’s List for the Spring 2017 semester. Oliveira, whose major is Entrepreneurship, is a member of the class of 2017.

Pan-Mass Challenge

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To the Editor:

This year, I will be riding in a 50-mile course in the Pan-Mass Challenge on Sunday, August 6. The PMC’s mission is to raise money through their annual bike-a-thon for life-saving cancer research and treatment at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. The PMC donates 100% of every rider-raised dollar directly to the DFCI and The Jimmy Fund. My goal is to raise over $1,200 for this charity.

If you are able to generously donate a gift, no matter how small, please visit my PMC page at profile.pmc.org/KL0231 or visit pmc.org, click on donate, and type in my name.

Thank you so much for considering supporting this great cause! If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to me.

Kyle Letendre

kyleletendre@oldrochester.org

 

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.