The Rochester Republican Town Committee will hold their next meeting on Monday, September 8, at the Ponderosa Sportsman, located at 242 Robinson Rd, Acushnet. All are invited to attend. The meeting will begin at 6:30 pm.
Renovations Begin; Town House Closed
Construction in the Marion Town House began on Monday, September 1 with the Town House functions being moved to the Town House Annex on the other side of Route 6 at 14 Barnabas Road. All functions, including the drop-box for payments have henceforth moved.
Renovations have so far just included a teardown. Ceiling tiles are down, wiring is exposed, walls are marked with sticky notes with messages like “new window here?” on them, and flowing has been covered up with cardboard to prevent damage.
Work was approved at this year’s Town Meeting when Article 17 was passed with roughly a two-thirds vote in favor. The passed article calls for renovations that would make the site ADA and building-code compliant, while also generally making it more accessible. Also being installed in the roughly 150-year-old building is a new and more capable fire suppression system. Finally, HVAC will be added to the building, following heavy debate. Supporters say it will make the building easier on staff and visitors in increasingly hotter summers. Upon speaking with a worker in the building today, he exclaimed, “man, it’s hot in here.”
The Marion Finance Committee had voted not to support Article 17 prior to Town Meeting, with Chair Shay Assad recommending work should be split into multiple different articles to allow the Marion people to vote on each individually.
Construction totals have incrementally risen since the renovations were first proposed, with current and approved costs being over $4,000,000. Work is set to continue throughout the winter and conclude sometime next summer.
Marion Town House Construction
By Sam Bishop
Proposed Gym Sparks Complaints
After hearing the details of homeowner Jorge Rodriguez’s plan and neighbors’ concerns, Rochester’s Zoning Board of Appeals on August 28 continued a Special Permit Request to allow a personal fitness gym at 12 Mayflower Lane to its next meeting to give Rodriguez time to rethink his proposal.
Rodriguez explained he is looking to teach small classes in what he called Functional Fitness four days a week at his home on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, lasting no more than one hour each time. There would be one class in the morning and one in the afternoon, serving around five and a maximum of 10 students each time. His goal, he noted, is to try out the possibility of expanding these classes into a larger business at a separate location, “… to test the waters to see how it goes,” he said.
Board Chair Donald Spirlet raised the first concern. Ten participants would require parking for 10, he said. Will there be enough off-street parking available? Rodriguez answered he has a long driveway and space for parking behind his home and that 10 participants would be the limit that would make him expand elsewhere.
Rodriguez’s neighbors said they were concerned about the noise and traffic this business would bring to their neighborhood. Steve Bobrowicki, who lives across the street, complained about what Rodriguez has already been doing out of his home. Workouts sometimes happen in the street, he said. Plus, Rodriguez’s workout music is so loud it projects right into Bobrowicki’s yard. “My kids are (Rochester Memorial School) students,” Bobrowicki said. “Eight o’clock they’re in bed, and the music’s still too loud.”
Neighbor Doug Sims, who had just been appointed as a Zoning Board associate member but had to recuse himself from the hearing to speak, said he too objects to Rodriguez’s loud workout music and workouts in the street. He noted Mayflower Lane is shaped in an S-curve and has been the site of two motor-vehicle accidents in the nine years that he’s lived there.
Rodriguez’s business would only add to the traffic flow, he said. Neighbor Preston Faulkner said there is a garage on a new foundation there that is open and exposes his exercise equipment. “I hear the noise, too,” he said. “I echo the concern.”
Rodriguez said he and his two partners are willing to do what it would take to keep peace with the neighborhood. His partner Ken Pearlman said they will not do any programming in the street. “That’s an easy accommodation,” he said.
The Zoning Board concluded the proposal was not as simple as it seemed on paper. Member Richard Cutler said Rodriguez’s plan goes against the town bylaws allowing home businesses, wherein the intent is that they blend with the neighborhood and be conducted solely by the homeowner. But Rodriguez has two business partners.
Jeffrey Costa said Rodriguez had three options. He could risk a “no” vote from the four members in attendance that night (all four would have to vote in the affirmative for the special permit to pass under this option), he could withdraw his application so he can rework it, or request a continuance to a future meeting for that same purpose. Rodriguez chose the continuance to the board’s September 11 meeting.
In other business, Board Administrator Andreia Lacerda reported there are enough petitions for meetings on September 11 and September 25.
The next meeting of the Rochester Zoning Board of Appeals will be held on Thursday, September 11 at 7:15 pm at Town Hall, 1 Constitution Way.
Rochester Zoning Board of Appeals
By Michael J. DeCicco
Summer’s Over, Sorry Kiddos
The sun has begun its slow retreat, the cicadas are turning down their concerts, and the halls are filled with the smell of erasers and sharpened pencils. Yes, summer break is over, and with it, the annual migration of backpacks, lunchboxes, and sleep-deprived students has begun. All the schools in the Tri-Town are back in session.
The start of the 2025-26 school year will be a bittersweet affair for most. Students mourn the loss of sleeping in, ice cream melting down their hands onto the sidewalk, and afternoons spent staring into the void of social media. Parents, meanwhile, have been spotted giving each other high fives, liberated at last.
Local teachers, the true heroes of our story, have emerged from their summer hibernations armed with lesson plans (ever changing), teacher-related gifts they got from their friends and family who didn’t know what else to get them, and a thousand-yard stare that can silence a classroom. Coffee will soon be flying off the shelves.
But while the season’s shift comes with groans, there’s reason for optimism. A new year means new beginnings: a fresh shot at learning something new, trying a new sport or club, landing a role in the school play, or finally solving that locker combination on the first try (I never used mine – stuffed-backpack kid here). For parents, it means a chance to momentarily reclaim some silence only to miss the noise once it’s gone. For teachers, another opportunity to inspire curiosity, whether anyone remembers their homework may be an ask too far.
The leaves will start to turn soon, and the pumpkin-spice onslaught will begin anew. Remember, endings are really beginnings in disguise. Summer may be fading, the Oxcart is closed, but the school year holds its own kind of promise. A chance for growth, achievement, and maybe, just maybe, a snow day or two down the line.
By Sam Bishop
Eagle Scouts Receive Official Honors
Rochester’s Select Board met Tuesday to award citations congratulating four local Boy Scouts for achieving the rank of Eagle Scout.
Noah Bellesville, Logan Empey, and Reece Bethoney of Troop 31 were present to receive their honor in person. The fourth honoree, Quinn Thompson, was unable to attend.
“While it’s a rare honor, it’s not so rare in Rochester, “Town Administrator Cameron Durant said when announcing the presentation. He noted multiple young scouts have earned Eagle Scout status since the local troop began in 1961. “It says a lot about the values of the people of this community.”
After the presentation, Empey told The Wanderer the project he completed to earn his badge was building an archery and ace practice board for the Mattapoisett YMCA. Bethoney’s project was to build community boxes for storing recreational gear, one for local pickleball play equipment and the other for beach balls at Silvershell Beach. Bellesville built a picnic table for Old Colony Regional Vocational-Technical High School.
In other meeting action, the Select Board approved and signed a contract with Indus for seal-coat services on the town’s roads. Durant said the contract price is $14.47 per gallon of seal coat. He said the final cost will not be known until the total project is complete but will be paid through town and Chapter 90 funds.
Durant announced the Old Colony Regional Vocational-Technical High School District is conducting a regional meeting at the school to vote on the district’s plan to fund a new school facility on November 10. He noted the town website will post important information on this plan.
Durant also announced the next Select Board meeting will include a joint meeting with the Water Commission on how to solve the problem with invasive milfoil weeds growing in the town’s ponds. Options include herbicide treatments and renting or buying a harvester to stop them from choking off the ponds.
The next meeting of the Rochester Select Board is scheduled for Monday, September 15 at 6:00 pm at Town Hall, 1 Constitution Way.
Rochester Select Board
By Michael J. DeCicco
From the Files of the Rochester Historical Society
A while ago Walter Hartley gave me a copy of a 1917 newspaper article that he had come across. Just recently, I found a similar copy in papers from Carol Higgins that had been passed on to the museum. The article is sub-titled “Rochester Center Mourns the Death of a Most Estimable Lady” and is both an obituary and a biography of Mary Lewis Hathaway on the occasion of her funeral.
Mary Lewis Hathaway was the oldest child of Capt. Judah Hathaway. She was born at her maternal grandparent’s (the Lewis of her name) home as her father was at sea. When Capt. Hathaway retired from the sea, he became a large landowner in Rochester with both a large farm and a sawmill industry. The home he bought for his family was on today’s Marion Rd.
Growing up in Rochester, Mary attended the town schools, including the Academy in what is now the Church Vestry building. Around 1875, she attended the newly opened Wellsley College for three years, a somewhat unusual path for a woman in the 1800’s.
Upon her mother’s death, she stepped up to the task of becoming the mistress of her father’s home and also, to the raising of her youngest sister who was still a child. As time passed, her grandmother, Mrs. Delia King Lewis, moved in with the Hathaway household when her health began to decline, extending Mary’s duties. She then took care of her father as he too developed health issues leading to his death.
After that, she continued to make sure that the family home remained the center for Christmas and other celebrations with her siblings and their families (which contained many nieces and nephews) in attendance. All of these responsibilities would seem to have kept her busy and at home. However, Mary Lewis Hathaway was much more than just the family caregiver and the maintainer of the family home.
The First Congregational Church was important to her and not just as a Sunday attendee. Her service on the part of the church was extensive. She was a charter member of the “Christian Endeavor” where she held a variety of offices including that of president. She was active in the local union of Christian Endeavor Societies. She would drive her horse and carriage to area meetings, making sure to provide transportation to those who needed it.
She took over the job of church clerk which she held for ten years. She was also a member and officer of Rochester Auxiliary to the Women’s Board of Missions. She was a “skillful and energetic director of the Ladies’ Sewing Circle” as well as its secretary. Perhaps most importantly, she was the Superintendent of the Sunday School beginning in 1908.
One wonders where she found the time, but she also served the town as one of the trustees of the Public Library and secretary of the Library Board. Needless to say, her death in 1917 left large gaps in many local organizations.
Just this past week the 105th anniversary of women finally receiving the right to vote was celebrated. This was accomplished by many strong and dedicated women. Mary Lewis Hathaway, who didn’t live long enough to exercise that right, is only one of Rochester’s many such women whose stories can be found in our town’s history. They were the women who stepped forward to accomplish work important to the town and its people and could also be considered ” most estimable.”
By Connie Eshbach
New Programs at the MAC
The MAC has added two new programs to their fall slate of fun activities.
Art + Play – Instructor Aylin Cetik brings Art+Play back to the MAC, for ages 2-5 years old. We practice process art, which is a playful and explorative approach to creating. Here, the journey is more important than the final product. We believe children learn best through hands-on exploration and experimentation with a variety of materials and techniques. Each class offers several creative opportunities, empowering your child to make their own choices and work at their own pace. Classes are on Wednesdays, 9:30 am to 10:30 am in the MAC Studio, located at 80 Pleasant Street, Marion. All children must be accompanied by an adult. The MAC is offering a free Trial Date on October 1 at 9:30 am. Registration is required for the free trial class. The class runs October 8, 15, 22, and 29 from 9:30 am to 10:30 am. The cost is $90 for MAC members and $105 for nonmembers. One-day drop-in classes are available for $28 each. More information and registration are at marionartcenter.org/art-lab.
Youth Theater
The MAC is pleased to announce a new after-school program for ages 10-15. Young actors in this interactive afternoon theater program will explore multiple facets of theater craft both on stage and behind the scenes. Activities may include acting, improvisation, costume creation, stage management, tech, and movement. The class is led by Garrett Olson, who joined the MAC as our ArtStart Music and Movement teacher in 2025 and served as our program director for our successful new summer camp, All Things Theater.
The class runs on Mondays from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm, six weeks from October 20 through November 24. Classes take place at the MAC, located at 80 Pleasant St, Marion. The cost for the program is $195 for members and $225 for nonmembers. More information and registration at marionartcenter.org/youth-theater.
Three Art in the Afternoon Early Release Half Day Camps – The MAC is offering three Early Dismissal Half Day Camps for ages 6-12. Join us for an afternoon packed with artistic adventures where kids will dive into the exciting world of mixed media art, letting their imaginations run wild by combining different materials and techniques. When it’s time to stretch our legs and soak up some sunshine, we’ll head outside for fun and active games to keep the energy flowing! Dates include: Wednesday, September 24, 12:20 pm to 3:00 pm (2.5 hours, $70 for MAC Members, $80 for nonmembers): Thursday, October 23, 11:30 am to 3:00 pm (3.5 hours, $95/$110), and Friday, October 24, 11:30 am to 3:00 pm ($95/$100). Register online at marionartcenter.org/art-lab.
Kindergarteners’ First Bus Ride
The first day of kindergarten is a significant moment – and this year, some of Rochester’s newest students had a little extra company for the ride.
On Friday morning, August 29, Old Rochester Regional School District and MA Superintendency Union #55 Superintendent Michael S. Nelson joined Rochester Police Chief Michael Assad Jr. and Lt. Zack Dupere aboard Bus 5 for a special ride-along with incoming kindergarteners on their very first trip to school.
The bus, driven by long-time driver Annie, picked the trio up outside the Rochester Police station before stopping to pick up students.
“Hey, does anyone need a ride, fellas?” Annie, the bus driver, asked.
Superintendent Nelson, Chief Assad, and Lt. Dupere joined in the fun, joking about their own Paw Patrol backpacks and first-day nervousness.
“The kids weren’t quite sure what to make of us being on the bus at first,” Superintendent Nelson said. “But within minutes, they were telling us all about their summers and showing us their new backpacks. It was an awesome way to share in their excitement.”
Chief Assad said the idea came to him as a way to make students feel welcome.
“For a kindergartner, that first bus ride to school can feel like a huge step,” Chief Assad said. “We wanted to be right there with them to show them that school is a safe and fun place, and that their community is cheering them on.”
The ride lasted nearly an hour before the students and their special guests all walked into school together, where teachers and staff greeted them.
Superintendent Nelson wishes to extend a special thank you to bus driver Annie, who has been transporting Rochester students for many years.
“Annie is truly the best of the best,” Superintendent Nelson said. “Families know her, kids love her, and she connects with students in a way that makes every ride a great one.”
Friday marked the third day of school overall, but the first day for kindergarteners. Thanks to the extra effort from school and police leaders, it was a day they won’t soon forget.
“By the end of the ride, the kids were asking if we’d be there in the afternoon,” Superintendent Nelson said. “Starting kindergarten is a big milestone. We just wanted to make it a little more special!”
Mary E. (Clarke) Kelleher,
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
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