John Bellafatto

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John Bellafatto, a proud Navy veteran and devoted family man, passed away peacefully on September 15, 2025, at Tobey Hospital in Wareham, Massachusetts at the age of 89.

            Born in Sea Cliff, New York, John was the son of John G. Bellafatto, who immigrated from Italy, and Gumersinda Guzman Y Lopez, born in Puerto Rico. He graduated from Sea Cliff High School in 1955 and went on to serve his country honorably in the United States Navy.

            John spent his later years as a resident of Rochester, Massachusetts, where he retired from Home Depot after years of dedicated service. Known for his tireless work ethic, he touched the lives of many through both his professional and personal endeavors.

            He is survived by his children: John Bellafatto of Bristol, RI; Mark Bellafatto of Richmond, VA; Angela Feather and her husband John Feather of Cumberland, RI; and Michael Bellafatto of Reno, NV. He shared these children with Vita (Tumbarello) Bellafatto, their loving mother.

            A lifelong fan of baseball and football, John found great happiness traveling across the country visiting ballparks and soaking in the spirit of the game. John will be laid to rest with at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne, Massachusetts. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Gary Sinise Foundation to support veterans. Arrangements are by the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Rd., Mattapoisett.

Dog Euthanasia Ordered

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            The Marion Select Board at its September 16 meeting voted to euthanize a dog that attacked and injured a pizza-delivery person on July 29.

            One-year-old Gordy, who by accounts from family members, is protective of his family but not good with strangers, poses a risk, according to the Select Board. There are playgrounds and children within this Point Street neighborhood, according to board members at the public hearing, which took place at the Marion Police station.

            Animal Control Officer Susan Connor says she responded to the incident after dog owner Spencer Mello, of 968 Point Street, wrestled the dog away from the delivery person, according to Mello’s relative Amorin Johnson, who lives in the home.

            Connor said she observed that the dog was aggressive and apprehensive. She asked that the dog be put under quarantine for a 10-day period and be ordered to wear a muzzle and that a fence with a solid gate be placed in the front of the home.

            Connor said she returned to the property and observed the dog outside on a tethered leash, similar to cable trolleys, and with a loose-fitting collar.

            Connor said she observed one “beware of dog warning sign,” but no muzzle.

            “I am reluctant to go to that house, and the dog is clearly wary of strangers,” Connor said.

            Johnson, who appeared at the hearing in place of Mello, said that on that July day, the delivery worker, Rumeysa Durmus, came on to the porch to deliver the pizza. The door to the home was slightly open and the dog came out.

            Johnson said Durmus screamed and that triggered an attack response from Gordy, who injured Durmus’ right arm. Durmus participated in the hearing via Zoom and said she still does not have full use of her right arm. Johnson pleaded with the Select Board to allow the family to take more precautions, including training for the dog.

            “He’s great with us, He is so protective of our children,” Johnson said.

            Connor told the board that this attack wasn’t the only one.

            In other board news, neighbors of the Maritime Center, which houses the Harbormaster Headquarters, complained of lights shining 24 hours from that center, as well as constant boat lights from the harbor. Cindy Fox and Mal Durkee spoke for several residents who have complained of light pollution in the area. “It looks like Las Vegas from our side (of the harbor),” Fox said. “Why are we paying taxpayer money to light this building all night?”

            Some solutions were proposed, including removing the lights and replacing them with dimmable ones. Select Board Chair Randy Parker said there should be a phone app to take off the lights when needed. Town Administrator Geoffrey Gorman said he would speak with the town’s electrical inspector about some of these ideas.

            In more positive news, the Marion Garden Club received the go-ahead from the Select Board to finance through the general treasury water and sprinkler systems for town gardens. The Marion Garden Club has approximately seven aesthetic gardens around town but needs help with the water bill and sprinklers.

            Club members met with Parker and board member Norm Hills and asked for financial assistance for sprinklers for approximately five of these gardens, which need regular water maintenance. Club members said the group mostly relies on fundraising and volunteer efforts but needs approval for use of town water and maintenance of sprinkler systems. They said the annual water costs are approximately $800, and the costs of maintaining sprinkler systems are just over $4,000 annually.

            Select Board members, which serve as the town’s Water and Sewer commissioners, took no exception with the request. Parker said these gardens help maintain the town’s appearance and are an asset for its aesthetic appeal.

            The next meeting of the Marion Select Board is scheduled for Tuesday, October 7, at 6:00 pm in the Marion Police Department.

Marion Select Board

By Jeffrey D. Wagner

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.