Rochester Dry Storage Deliberations

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Rochester’s Zoning Board of Appeals ended its October 10 meeting with an unusual move, setting a single-issue meeting for Thursday, October 17.

            The application to be reviewed on that date is for a variance to place a 30×71-foot steel carport on a residential lot at 173 County Road. Property owner Dwight Crosby told the board on October 10 the building is to be used for dry storage of his boat, RV, and other personal possessions.  The new building would need to be placed just over a wetlands buffer zone, near an existing cranberry bog.

            Board members said they had no problem with the building proposal itself.  Board member Donald Spirlet admitted Crosby does need a place to store these items under cover. 

            However, board members also said Crosby needed re-drawn plans that include a driveway that will support the weight of the vehicles Crosby will use to drive them into that carport.  Chair David Arancio explained the board needs the full plans in front of them before granting the variance. To be without this would only enable any legal challenge to the board’s vote.  He also cautioned Crosby that all easements need to be shown on the plan. For example, one abutter across the street is in Wareham.

            Board member Jeffrey Costa said whether there is a driveway on the plan or not should not affect how the zoning panel votes on a variance. Arancio responded that updated plans are needed because the board has to ‘condition’ the variance approval appropriately.

            The board drafted the following conditions, that the new structure shall be for dry storage only and there shall be no conversion to residential use, then postponed the hearing to October 17 at 7:15 pm in the town hall conference room.

            The Zoning Board of Appeals’ next regular meeting after October 17 will be Thursday, November 14 at 7:15 pm at Town Hall, 1 Constitution Way.

Rochester Zoning Board of Appeals

By Michael J. DeCicco

St. Anthony-St. Rita Christmas By The Sea Bazaar

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Mark your calendars and save the date! Please join us for the annual “Christmas By The Sea Bazaar” on Saturday, December 7 from 9:00 am until 1:00 pm at St. Anthony’s parish, 26 Hammond Street, Mattapoisett.

Seasonal handcrafted gifts, decorations, and stocking stuffers will be offered by local vendors, including wooden and leather wares, honey, ornaments (including the 2024 parish ornament designed by a local artist), seashell art, all types of sewn, crocheted, knitted and quilted items such as stuffed animals, hats, mittens and bags, carved wooden birds, jewelry, and much more!

When you arrive, you will be greeted with live festive music. As always, the Bazaar will offer a huge assortment of decorated wreaths and greens arrangements, gift baskets and art raffles, a grand raffle (1st prize: $1,000, 2nd prize: $500, 3rd prize: $250), a toy shoppe with toys, cookie decorating, and games, and a large bake sale with all types of wonderful baked goods.

There will be refreshments as well, filling the hall with festive aromas! Refreshments will include: malasadas and coffee, ‘Friendship soup” (recipe to be provided!), popcorn, hot chocolate bar, and more!

All proceeds will benefit St. Anthony- St. Rita parish initiatives, including providing college book scholarships to local high school seniors. Please find, like, and share our event on Facebook! If you have any questions, please reach out to Katie Silvia at katsa06@gmail.com. We hope to see you there.

Robert W. Maguire

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Robert W. Maguire, 79, of Mattapoisett passed away peacefully on Monday, October 14, 2024.  He was the devoted husband to the love of his life Sachi Maguire. The two met at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California over 55 years ago and have never looked back.

Born and raised in Taunton, son of the late John W. Maguire and Grace L. Maguire, he was the youngest of 9 children. Bob graduated from Monsignor James Coyle High School in 1963 and then went on to Graduate from Bridgewater State College with a degree in history and earning a commission in the Air Force as a member of the Reserve Officer Training Corps in 1967.

After serving in the Air Force, he requested an interservice transfer to the US Army infantry in 1969 where he served in the Vietnam War with the 101st Airborne Division earning the Bronze Star on October 14th, 1970. In 1971 was honorably discharged from the army and brought his family back to Taunton before settling permanently in Mattapoisett.  Bob continued his military career part time in the US Army National Guard in 1971 and retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1995.

While settling in Mattapoisett, Bob was hired as an English teacher at Upper Cape Regional Technical High School. Over the 32 years he was at UCRT he wore many hats from English/Science teacher to President of the Teachers Union to Basketball/Track Coach to Dean of Students and eventually Principal. He was an uncommon, beloved teacher who truly cared for his profession, school and more importantly his students.  Bob’s career was culminated by his induction into the UCRT Hall of Fame in 2019. In 2004 he retired to focus on family and recreation. 

 The best years of his life were spent wintering in FL with his loving wife. Being an avid sports fan, Bob enjoyed endlessly complaining about New England sports teams, especially the Red Sox (for good reason). As he aged, golf became his obsession.  He truly loved his extended family at the Reservation Golf Course where he was affectionately nicknamed “the Colonel”. As life became more challenging, Ressie became his “oasis” and he “honest and truly” loved being a part of such a special place.

Survivors include his beloved wife Sachi, his children Paul Maguire and his wife Christa of Mattapoisett, Linda Maguire and her husband Matthew Staples of Colorado, his step-daughter Sally Klaus and her husband Mark of Michigan. As well as his grandchildren, Alyson Maguire, Grayson Staples, Josie Staples, and Brady Maguire; several nieces and nephews including those who were his surrogate siblings, Madeleine, Leslie and Timmy; extended “family” includes James Fagan, Lori Howes, Jimmy Alves, Robert O’Brien and Albert Coelho.   

His visiting hours will be held on Sunday October 20th from 1-5 PM in the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Road, Mattapoisett. Private burial with military honors will take place in the Massachusetts National Cemetery.  For directions and guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com. 

Family Beer and Wine Shop Permit Approved

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Of three projects scheduled for public hearings, one moved forward and two were postponed at the request of the applicants.

            C&J Sull LLC, doing business as Sull Wine, was first on the agenda. They sought a special permit for a general retail establishment for the sale of wine and beer. Owner Joel Sullivan introduced himself to the board as the manager of the former Sullivan Liquors, a well-known local store until the building it occupied was sold. He said experience and expertise in operating such a business and was eager to offer the community a quality, family-run store in a convenient location.

            The board looked favorably at the proposed business and determined that the applicant has met the necessary requirements thus far. It was pointed out that if the store will sell food of any kind, a permit from the Board of Health is required. Sullivan and his attorney assured the Board they would comply.

            The Board voted unanimously to approve the Special Permit.

            Papa’s Real Estate, LLC, was next on the agenda regarding a Major Site Plan Review. This was continued indefinitely at the request of the applicant. Also scheduled for a Major Site Plan Review, 78 Wareham Road LLC was continued to October 10 at the applicant’s request.

            There followed a discussion of minutes of the meeting of August 5, which had not yet been approved by the Board. Mr. Daniel noted the Board had requested that a portion of the minutes referencing the storm water discussion be rewritten, and he had done so. Ms. Marum stated that her “words were removed” without her consent. She felt that based on her research, the Board is in violation of the Open Meeting law and she intends to file a complaint with the Attorney General’s office.

            The next meeting of the Planning Board will be on October 21 at 7:00 at the Marion Police Department.

Marion Planning Board

By Mary McCann Fiske

Your Vote is Magic

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The League of Women Voters SouthCoast is proud to present “Your Vote Is Magic” on Friday, October 25 at 6:30 pm, at New Bedford Voc-Tech, 1121 Ashley Blvd., New Bedford.

The Award-winning illusionist Lyn Dillies is the creator of “Your Vote Is Magic.” Ms. Dillies seamlessly integrates breathtaking illusions with a compelling educational message about the importance of voting.

            This non-partisan presentation, offered at no cost, aims to inspire and empower students and citizens to vote. It explicitly emphasizes the significance of your vote as your voice and underscores the importance of exercising your right to vote. For further information, please visit lwvsouthcoast.org/events.

The MAC Halloween Parade Returns

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The volunteer witches of the Marion Art Center have been brewing up plans for their annual Halloween Parade around the town on Thursday, October 31. Costumed characters of all ages are invited to join in for this fun family event. Participants should meet in front of the Marion Music Hall (we’ll line up on Cottage Street) at 4:00pm. Under the direction of Hannah Moore, the Sippican Elementary School drummers will lead the parade of witches and princesses, goblins and ghouls, wild animals, and spooky spirits. The parade route will head south on Front Street, up Main Street, north onto Spring Street and back down Cottage to the Music Hall. Don’t forget to pop by the Music Hall at the end of the parade route for your treat bags, made with love by the good witches of the MAC. “Teal Pumpkin” goodie bags are available for those with allergies or food sensitivity.

            This year, the First Congregational Church, at the corner of Main and Front streets, Marion, is planning to have a photo opportunity on the church lawn with a harvest display with hay bales, mums, and pumpkins, after the MAC Halloween parade has concluded and treat bags are collected. Pets are welcome for their photos as well and there will be water and dog treats available. All are welcome.

No Quorum, No Meeting

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            Tuesday, Rochester’s Planning Board chair Arnold Johnson had to tell a hearing room packed with residents that the panel couldn’t hold its regular meeting because it lacked a quorum.

            “Sorry, folks,” Johnson said.  “We can’t open the meeting.  We can’t talk about anything on the agenda.”

            Johnson, Ben Bailey and Michael Murphy were the only members present.  Being a seven-member board, four members are required to be in attendance to reach a quorum, Johnson explained.  Town Planner Nancy Durfee tried unsuccessfully to reach by telephone the panel’s absent members to attend.

            Johnson quickly promised, however, that everything on the October 8 agenda will be on the agenda of the next meeting on October 22. Left on the docket for that meeting will be an approval request for a preliminary subdivision on 28 acres at 386 Snipatuit Road.  The proposal would add two new homes to a parcel with an existing dwelling unit.

            The board is also slated to review the Cushman Solar LLC’s plan for an Eversource electrical service pole placement on Cushman Road.  One attendee Tuesday said she was there because of the solar project but would not elaborate further.

            The Rochester Planning Board’s next meeting will be Tuesday, October 22 at 7:00 pm at Town Hall, 1 Constitution Way.

Rochester Planning Board

By Michael J. DeCicco

Sleep Problems and How to Fix Them

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To sleep…perchance to dream

            Insomnia, dissatisfaction with sleep quality or duration, is a common problem. Some 10% of Americans have chronic insomnia and another 15-20% have occasional insomnia.

            While scientists do not fully understand why we (and virtually all living animals) need to sleep, lack of sleep contributes to many problems, including interpersonal, school and work functioning, depression and hypertension.

            There are specific medical problems that may underlie insomnia. Restless legs and obstructive sleep apnea lead this list and will respond to specific therapies. Your bed partner is more likely to pick up on these than are you, and a session in the sleep lab will usually confirm the diagnosis.

            Shift workers are particularly at risk for insomnia and the problem may not go away until you get a regular work schedule.

            Most have insomnia as its own problem. Insomnia may have started at the time of a life stress or due to jet lag and then persists.

            What can you do? There are many ‘common sense’ hints that may be all you need. Try to go to bed and get up at the same time every day, including weekends. Be sure your bedroom is dark and cool. Exercise early in the day, not in the evening. Do not work right up until bedtime; allow yourself time to decompress by relaxing reading or music. Do not eat within 2 hours of bedtime.

            If these do not work, what next?

            Sleeping pills, whether over-the-counter or prescription, are fine for short-term use but are not that effective when used chronically, and the more effective prescription drugs can have side effects.

            Older individuals are at particular risk of falls, morning confusion and even dementia with chronic use of benzodiazepines (Valium, Ativan etc.). The so-called “Z drugs,” (Zolpidem, zaleplon and eszopiclone) have black-box warnings because of sleepwalking and other potentially risky sleep behaviors.

            Sedating antihistamines like Benadryl have limited efficacy and cause dry mouth and daytime sedation. They are also potentially causes of dementia if used chronically.

            Most experts strongly recommend cognitive behavioral therapy (CBTI) before medication. The success rate is high and there are no side effects. The problem is the lack of trained therapists and the cost.

            An alternative is a web-based or phone app. These have been found to be almost as effective as in-person coaching. Two web-based programs that have good studies behind them are no longer available. I was able to download Shuteye, which promises a full year of coaching for $30 which appears good, but I have not fully tested it. Similar, and free, is Insomnia Coach, developed by the VA.

            Also recommended, for technophobes, is the book Quiet Your Mind and Get to Sleep.

            Should CBTI not work, young adults whose problem is falling asleep can try melatonin or a short-acting benzo. If sleep maintenance is the problem, low-dose doxepin or similar drugs are useful. Also approved for this use are three orexin receptor antagonists (ask your doctor!), which have fewer side-effects than benzos but are quite expensive. If you are going to use medication, be sure to also practice good “sleep hygiene” as noted above.

            Sweet dreams.

            Edward Hoffer MD is Associate Professor of Medicine, part-time, at Harvard.

What Does The Doctor Say?

By Dr. Edward Hoffer

Buzzards Bay Watershed Ride

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On Sunday, October 6, 323 riders enjoyed the Buzzards Bay Watershed Ride with perfect crisp, clear fall conditions. This annual fundraising event has become a cherished tradition, bringing together cyclists from all over Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and beyond to raise over $240,000 to advance the mission of the Buzzards Bay Coalition.

            Participants chose from 100, 75 or 35-mile course lengths that led them past coastal farmlands, windswept beaches, cranberry bogs, and scenic harbors between Rhode Island and Upper Cape Cod.

            Riders from all three courses were met by cheering crowds at the finish line in Woods Hole, and enjoyed a vibrant finish celebration featuring delicious food, beer from Westport’s Buzzards Bay Brewing, and live music provided by Falmouth favorite Puffy Elvis.

            The top fundraisers were Geoff Sullivan of Fairhaven, who raised a total of $23,255, Lizanne Campbell of Mattapoisett, who raised a total of $10,950, followed by Will Saltonstall of Marion, who raised a total of $10,575.

            The top fundraising teams were the South Coast Bikeway team, who raised $42,516 and the Sippican Sailors, who raised $73,900, including a very generous matching gift.

            Donations are being accepted until October 20 and can be made at savebuzzardsbay.org/ride. The 2025 Watershed Ride will take place on October 5.

            The Buzzards Bay Watershed Ride is one of two signature outdoor fundraising events hosted by the Coalition. The other is the Buzzards Bay Swim, a scenic 1.2-mile point-topoint open water swim from New Bedford to Fairhaven set for June 2025.

            For more information, please contact the Coalition at events@savebuzzardsbay.org or (508) 999-6363.

Marion Voter Information

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Town Administrator Geoffrey Gorman and Town Clerk Lissa Magauran would like to remind community members of voting information for the Massachusetts State Election.

            The 2024 Massachusetts State Election will be held on Tuesday, November 5.

            All requests for Vote by Mail (VBM) ballots received by October 3 have been mailed. Any new requests for VBM ballots will be mailed as received.

            The last day to register to vote for the State Election is Saturday, October 26, 2024. The Town Clerk’s Office, located at 2 Spring Street, will be open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm that day. Residents also may register to vote online at www.sec.state.ma.us until 11:59 pm, October 26.

            The State mailed Early Voting (EV) Application Postcards to all those who were registered to vote as of September 6 and had not yet requested a mail in ballot. Anyone who has not received an EV Application Postcard yet should contact the Town Clerk’s Office at 508-748-3502 or lmagauran@marionma.gov, and an EV Application will be mailed.

            The last day to request a vote by mail ballot is Tuesday, October 29 at 5:00 pm.

            In-person early voting will be held at the Marion Town House, 2 Spring Street, on the following dates:

            -Saturday, October 19 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm

            -Saturday, October 26 from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

            -Monday, October 21 through Friday, November 1 during regular business hours (8:15 am to 4:15 pm Monday – Thursday, and Friday 8:15 am – 3:15 pm)

            Absentee voting is available in the Town Clerk’s Office during regular business hours. The deadline to request an absentee ballot to be mailed is Tuesday, October 29 at 5:00pm. The deadline to vote by absentee ballot in person is Monday, November 4 at 12:00 pm.

            All ballots must be received by 8:00 pm on November 5. Please do not drop your Absentee or Vote by Mail Ballots at the polls. They must be dropped at the Marion Town House.

            Voting on the day of the Election, November 5, will take place at the Benjamin D. Cushing Community Center, 465 Mill Street, from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm

            Know before you go: Ensure you’re registered to vote and that your voter status is active: www.sec.state.ma.us/VoterRegistrationSearch/

            If your voter status is inactive, you may still vote. Your driver’s license and/or a current bill tied to you and your registered voting address will be needed. A voter becomes inactive if they haven’t returned their signed Annual Street List (local census form) for the current year prior to June 30.

            For more information, please visit the Town of Marion’s website: marionma.gov/674/Election-Information