October Programs in the Mattapoisett Children’s Room

on

Join us for a fun-filled October in the Mattapoisett Children’s Room, packed with exciting programs for all ages. We’re kicking off the month by celebrating Fire Safety Month at the Mattapoisett Fire Station on Saturday, October 12 at 1 pm. Children and families will have the chance to meet real firefighters, see them in full gear, and explore the fire trucks and equipment. This event is open to all ages, and no registration is required.

            On Wednesday, October 16 at 3:30 pm, patrons ages 8 and up are invited to join us for a Halloween Miniature Terrarium Craft. Let’s get into the Halloween spirit by creating a spooky miniature terrarium using a recycled Qui yogurt jar. Be sure to visit the library or our website to register.

            Then, on Friday, October 18 at 3:30 pm, our Graphic Novel Book Club will meet to discuss The Witches’ Wings and Other Terrifying Tales by Tehlor Kay Mejia. Copies of the book are available at the library, and participants can look forward to a lively discussion, a craft activity, and snacks. This event is recommended for ages 9 and up. You can register on our website, and for any questions, feel free to reach out to bsolaris@sailsinc.org.

            Bring your little ones (ages 1 and up) to the library on Wednesday, October 23 at 10:30 am for a fun fall-themed activity: the Toddler Toilet Paper Roll Fall Tree Craft. We’ll be using toilet paper rolls to create adorable fall trees, and no registration is necessary.

            The spooky fun continues on Thursday, October 24 at 3:30 pm with our Witch Hat and Wand Making event. Recommended for ages 5 and up, children can create their own witch hat and wand. Don’t forget to pick your hat color when you register on our website.

            In addition, storytimes will continue throughout the month of October. Fall Storytime, open to all ages, will take place every Thursday at 10:30 am, while Baby Storytime, recommended for ages 0 to 24 months, will be held every Friday at 10:30 am.

            All programs are free and open to the public. If you have any questions, please contact Michelle Skaar at mskaar@sailsinc.org. You can also find more information on our website at MattapoisettLibrary.org.

Friends of Plumb Library Annual Meeting

on

The Friends of Plumb Library will be holding their Annual Meeting on Thursday, October 17 from 6:30-7:30 pm. The meeting is open to all members of the Friends and the public, and will be held at the Library which is located at 17 Constitution Way in Rochester.

            On the agenda are new by-laws governing the nonprofit, voting for next year’s new slate of officers, and annual review of programs and events the group funded. Friends volunteer their time and talents to provide resources for program enrichment, and to encourage public awareness of the services and accomplishments of the Library.

Upcoming Events at the Elizabeth Taber Library

on

Join Miss Macy for story times every Tuesday and Thursday at 10:30, starting in October.

            Join us at the library for Ghosts and Legends with Jeff Belanger, Friday October 11 at 6:30. For over 20 years, Jeff Belanger has been exploring the unexplained. He seeks out history, folklore, ghosts, monsters and legends all over the world and in your backyard. His talk presents highlights from his own adventures, a look at the investigation process and compelling audio and visual paranormal evidence. Not just focused on ghost stories, Belanger’s presentation will delve into the reasons behind the legends. Call the library to register for this free event.

            Support the library by enjoying a delicious dinner and lively book discussion at a Marion neighbor’s home at Tables of Content, a fund-raising event for the Elizabeth Taber Library – Sunday October 20 & Friday October 25. Go to the library’s website to register, select your book choices and date, get your book assignment & start reading, receive your dinner location and enjoy your evening. Tickets are $75 per person; all proceeds benefit the library. Learn more and view title options by visiting our website.

            The Banned Book Club returns to discuss the widely-censored horror story The Picture of Dorian Gray on Tuesday, October 15 at 6:30 pm. Eat, drink and discuss Oscar Wilde’s classic gothic novel and the terrors of censorship. Copies of this month’s title are available at the library’s circulation desk.

            For more information on the Elizabeth Taber Library, visit us at www.ElizabethTaberLibrary.org, or call us at 508-748-1252.

ARPA Funds On The Agenda

on

American Rescue Plan funding has been supporting cities and towns since COVID began damaging the financial stability of our country. But use of funds, which is audited, must follow guidelines. Two major areas of spending allowed by the federal government are roads and infrastructure.

            On September 1 as the Mattapoisett Select Board met, critical agenda items included the appropriation of APRA funds for roads and computer upgrades.

            The board voted to spend $4,539.30 for costs related to Communication Enhancements at Old Rochester Regional High School. These enhancements will allow for improved communication between the school and the Police Department. The board also voted to spend $59,652.34 for costs associated with the installation of a generator at the Housing Authority residences.

            The Water and Sewer Department will receive $400,000 for related expenses for a new headquarters building. And last on the agenda list was the approval of $15,000 for technology upgrades such as new laptops and docking stations for municipal employees. Town Administrator Mike Lorenco reported that $90,000 remains in the fund.

            Coming before the board was Ken Motta of Field Engineering to bring the board up-to-date on roadway work and sewer construction at the intersection of Pearl and Church Street. Motta said that bid documents are complete and bidding should begin by year’s end.

            Regarding impact to residents living in the congested neighborhood, Motta said the driveways for the most part will be smoothly transitioned. He said there will need to be some bushes and possible trees removed, but it was premature to get into those details at this time. The massive sewer/storm water project is being coordinated with the Highway Department and the engineering firm VHB who has been designing the village roads project for several years.

             Lorenco also announced that the town has received a grant in the amount of $41,662 for repairs to the Pine Island Culvert. The Police Department has also received a grant in the amount of $20,000 that will be used for training.

            Early voting at Town Hall is scheduled for October 19, 8 am to 4 pm, October 21 – October 25, 8 am to 4 pm and October 28 through November 1, 8 am to 4 pm.

            Flu clinics will soon be open, but preregistration is required. Visit the town’s website to register. Free COVID test kits are available at Town Hall, Lorenco announced.

            Visit the town’s website for scallop fishing details which opens on October 15 for recreational fishing only.

Mattapoisett Select Board

By Marilou Newell

Father-Daughter Story Time Comes Full Circle

on

Rudd Wyman just turned 96 but still remembers taking his daughter Sarah Jane (Wyman) Dickson and his son Steve Wyman to imaginary journeys to the moon and back.

            His daughter, Sarah Jane, recently published a children’s book “My Moon” based on the stories of her dad and how he helped engage the imagination of his kids on their figurative journeys beyond the Earth’s orbit.

            Wyman and her family gathered last Saturday at Sippican Health Care Center to celebrate her father’s birthday with a reading of this book. She was joined by a crowd of friends and family, along with Rudd’s wife Margie, 92.

            Wyman said the purpose of the book is to “reignite the imaginations of children in this age of social media.” Reading from the book’s dedication, Wyman said the story is a true story about a father who used the power of imagination to inspire his daughter.

            “His passion and love for art, writing and creative power has been passed down to me,” she said, reading from the book’s dedication. “We all have the power of imagination inside us. And if, just if, we open our hearts and set it free, anything is possible.”

            Sarah Dickson then went on to read her rhyming book, which captured her fond childhood memories of Rudd sweeping her to the moon – a journey that started when she was just a toddler.

            “From here on Earth, so small it seems. A wonder light with radiant beams. But here this story I will tell. About a moon I know so well,” Sarah read from the intro of her book.

            She stood between a birthday cake for Rudd and in front of both of her parents, who have been married for 64 years and now reside together at Sippican Health Center.

            “I think you’re great, the greatest,” said Rudd Wyman, who was in tears during the reading. “I love you.”

            When Sarah asked Rudd if he still remembers those storytelling sessions, he said without hesitation, “Of course I do.”

            Rudd said he does not know what inspired him to put his kids on his shoulders and to go on storytelling journeys outdoors, in closets and other dark spaces in their former Wilbraham home.

            “I really don’t (know why I did it), but I’m glad I did,” he said.

            Margie chimed in and noted the old home’s age – 1822 – and its dark areas, which instead of sparking fear, inspired imagination and creativity in their children.

            Sarah said she remembers the angle of one window allowed moonlight to beam into the home, a great backdrop for Rudd’s storytelling.

            Years later, Sarah attended Emerson College and studied communication and performing arts before moving to Yarmouth, Maine, where she resides.

            Sarah said she continued to write for the rest of her life, crafting poetry and short stories, but never forgetting the man who inspired it. She said the book was written 20 years ago but was only recently published. She thanked Massachusetts illustrator and Mattapoisett native Roni King, whose illustrations captured her childhood memories.

            The 42-page illustrated book is available for purchase on Amazon.

By Jeffrey D. Wagner

Prepare To Care

on

Why wait until the (potentially) inevitable happens? Whether it’s your parent, spouse, family member friend, or just someone who needs someone, it is common that many people are or will care for someone in some capacity. There are many challenges to caregiving and care receiving. This session provides a practical guide focused on how to put together a team and establish a care plan. You will gain insight on how to navigate the challenges as you and your loved one begin the journey of caregiving or care receiving. Learn information on how to have vital conversations; ways to assess your loved one’s needs; tips for organizing important documents; A roundup of federal and national resources; information on caring for yourself; checklists, medication charts and contact lists and more.

            Presenter, Theresa Chaklos, began volunteering with AARP MA in September 2020. She retired from the District of Columbia Superior Court in October 2019 after working there for 10 years as a Family Law Facilitator in the Family Court Self Help Center. Her professional background is diverse, but always focused on work that serves to empower others.

            Thursday, October 10 at 1:00 pm. 17 Barstow Street, Mattapoisett, enter at COA walkway to doors with blue awning. Free. Register: 508-758-4110 or coadirector@mattapoisett.net.

Marion COA Book Club

on

The Marion COA Book Club will be reorganizing and enrolling new members at the October 16 meeting. There are currently several openings in the group, which is open to both men and women, and limited to 12. If you wish to be part of this monthly group, which meets on the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 1 pm, call the COA at 508-748-3570.

            The book that will be discussed at the October meeting is The Secret Life of Sunflowers by Marta Molnar. This historical novel tells the true story of how Vincent Van Gogh’s paintings were saved from destruction and obscurity by the determined efforts of his sister-in-law. Copies of this book are on hold at the Elizabeth Taber Library for the members of this group.

COVID-19 Tests

on

The Marion Board of Health would like to share the following information from the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response, ASPR:

            The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response, ASPR, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, in collaboration with the U.S. Postal Service has reopened COVIDtests.gov, so that households across the country can order four additional over-the-counter COVID-19 tests for free. These tests are intended for use throughout the 2024 holiday season to detect currently circulating COVID-19 variants. Clear instructions are included on how to verify extended expiration dates.

            These efforts complement ASPR’s ongoing distribution of free COVID-19 tests to long-term care facilities, low-income senior housing, uninsured individuals, and underserved communities. Through this community organization distribution program and the home-ordering program, ASPR has provided a combined total of more than 1.9 billion COVID-19 over-the-counter tests.

            As the fall and holiday seasons will create increased close proximity gatherings of people, the Administration remains committed to helping Americans access tests to help so that, if they develop a respiratory illness, they can learn whether it is due to COVID-19 and then make the best choices about seeking medical care and reducing risks to family, friends, and co-workers. To order four free, over-the-counter COVID-19 tests, visit COVIDtests.gov.  

            The Marion Board of Health has a limited number of COVID-19 tests available for pick up at their office. Please call 508-748-3530 for more information.

County Supports Marion Generators

on

            Marion’s Select Board Tuesday received a $625,000 check from the Plymouth County Commission that will allow the town to replace all of its back-up generators at the Front Street waterworks pumping station.

            Plymouth County Commission Chairman Jared Valanzola and state Senator Marc Pacheco delivered the check to the board, noting these are ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funds that will be well-spent. Town Administrator Geoff Gorman noted that this check, combined with monies appropriated from town funds this year, will enable the necessary replacement all of the pumping station’s generators.

            Pacheco congratulated the commission for its outstanding work in making these dollars available for local communities, then noted this might be his last appearance in Marion as a state senator; he is retiring in December after 36 years as a state legislator.

            “One last time I come here as your senator,” he said. “But I may return. Marion is a very beautiful part of this district.”

            In turn, Valanzola thanked Pacheco for his complimentary words and his service to the county. “We wish you well and are grateful for your support,” he said.

            The Marion Energy Management Committee then proposed another large capital expense. The committee formally presented its plan to place solar panels on the roof of the new Department of Public Works building being constructed at Benson Brook. My Generation Energy, a local solar company, has offered to build a photovoltaic system on the roof of the new building.

            “It’s an exciting and timely ideas,” Committee member Jennifer Francis said. “A very cost-effective investment.”

            Francis said that thanks to a federal energy-rebate program currently available, the placing of solar panels there will knock 30% off of the town’s energy costs in less than five years. The town will realize a $13,000 energy-cost saving for a lease to an energy company.

            The Select Board and the town administrator reacted cautiously to the plan. Board Chairman Norm Hills said the town’s upfront costs to put up the panels, around $912,000, will need to be on a Town Meeting warrant, and Marion’s next one won’t be held until May 2025. Gorman said an expense like that has not been built into the current town budget.

            Francis cautioned the town needs to act fast. “It’s hard to say how long the rebate program will last because of the impending federal election,” she said.

            Select Board member Randy Parker said he wanted to know more about the Eversource costs within that $912,000 figure. The board then tabled further discussion.

            In other action, Gorman announced that the Southeastern Regional Planning and Economic Development District (SRPEDD) has awarded Hills its Commissioner of the Year Award for 2024, its “Distinguished Service award for the year,” Gorman said.

            The board approved an Off-Premises Wine and Malt Liquor Package Goods license for a new liquor store, J. Sull Wine, at 119 Wareham Road, Unit 105, requested by C&J Sullivan, LLC.

            The board appointed Eric Osterby as a new member of the Music Hall Advisory Committee and Robin Shields as a new member of the Capital Improvements Planning Committee.

            The board approved the following Water/Sewer commitments: $970 for a new water tap and meter and $6,092.65 for a water and sewer quarterly billing (final reading September 11), $511 for a miscellaneous charge (final reading September 19), $1,088.73 for a final reading on September 24 and $10,000 for new sewer service (final reading September 24).

            Gorman updated the board on the Harbormaster and Department of Public Works Building construction projects. The Harbormaster Building, he said, is on track to completion with a possible ribbon-cutting open at the end of October. The DPW Building construction project is also proceeding well.

            Gorman announced the town’s third annual Pumpkin Palooza has been scheduled for Saturday, October 26, at the Cushing Community Center, 465 Mill Street, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm.

            Gorman noted the town’s Benson Brook Boutique swamp shed has had a successful year and that its last day of the season will be October 30.

            The next meeting of the Marion Select Board is scheduled for Tuesday, October 15, at 6:00 pm in the Town House conference room facing Main Street.

Marion Select Board

By Michael J. DeCicco

October Events at the Mattapoisett Library

on

The Mattapoisett Free Public Library, located at 7 Barstow Street, has a fun fall ahead of us.

            The Public Health Nursing Office is hosting a Flu Vaccination Clinic at the library on Tuesday, October 8, from 11:00 am until 2:00 pm. High and regular doses will be available. Please remember to wear a short-sleeved top and bring your insurance cards. Participants must pre-register before arriving at the clinic. To register, please visit home.color.com/vaccine/register/mattapoisett?site=mattapoisett-library. If you have questions or need assistance with registration, contact the Public Health Nursing Office at 508-758-4118 or the COA at 508-758-4110.

            Our Purrington Fall Author Series continues with local author Ben Shattuck. Ben will discuss his new book of short stories, “The History of Sound,” on Tuesday, October 8 at 6 pm. Shattuck, a former Teaching-Writing Fellow and graduate of the Iowa Writers Workshop, is a recipient of the PEN America Short Story Prize and a 2019 Pushcart Prize. Shattuck’s last book, “Six Walks: In the Footsteps of Henry David Thoreau,” was a New Yorker magazine Best Book of 2022, a Wall Street Journal Best Book of Spring, a New York Times Best Book of Summer, and a New England Bestseller. Copies of his new book will be available for purchase at the event.

            Our next Cookbook Club meeting is scheduled for October 15 at 6:30 pm. New members are always welcome. This month, we’re reading “Half Baked Harvest Super Simple: More Than 125 Recipes for Instant, Overnight, Meal-Prepped and Easy Comfort Foods” by Tieghan Gerard. Limited copies of the book are available for pickup at the library. Stop by and snag one.

            Join local artist C.R. Florence for an exploratory comics-making class on Saturday, October 19 at 1 pm. No experience necessary. Patrons will learn a brief history of sequential art and how it has evolved to what we understand as “comics” today. This workshop will cover the basics of storytelling using sequential imagery, focusing on story beats, composition and flow. Recommended for ages 12 and up.

            As part of the Purrington Fall Author Series, Catherine Newman, author of the New York Times bestselling novel, “Sandwich,” will read from her book, invite audience questions, and sign copies of the novel on Tuesday, October 22 at 6 pm. Newman has written numerous columns, articles, and canned-bean recipes for magazines and newspapers, and her essays have been widely anthologized. Newman has authored several books, including: “We All Want Impossible Things,” “Waiting for Birdy and Catastrophic Happiness,” and the middle-grade novel “One Mixed-Up Night.” Copies of her new novel will be available for purchase at the event.

            Oasis Entertainment presents an interactive mystery game on Tuesday, October 29 at 3:30 pm. Ghosts are afloat in this Paris Hotel, just as the owners are trying to sell. . . In this self-contained mystery game, players complete puzzles, collect clues, and investigate evidence to solve The Case of the Haunted Hotel. No registration required. Recommended for ages 12 and up.

            Mark your Calendars. The Friends of the Mattapoisett Library have announced the dates for their Annual Jewelry Sale, which will be held on three consecutive days for the first time. The special Preview Sale for Friends members is on Thursday, December 5 from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. The sale dates for the General Public will be Friday, December 6 from 5:30 to 7:30 pm and Saturday, December 7 from 10:00 to 2:00 pm. The Friends will be accepting donations of jewelry and accessory items now through Tuesday, November 19. Donations can be dropped off at the library during business hours. Please do not leave any donations outside. Our community has historically been very generous with jewelry and accessory items donations, and The Friends thank you in advance for helping make this annual sale a big success.

            As always, these events and activities are free and open to all. Check the calendar on our website for additional information and updates. If you have questions, please email mfpl@sailsinc.org or call us at (508) 758-4171.