Short, but Not Sweet for Applicant

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An exceptionally quick meeting for the Marion Zoning Board of Appeals on Thursday included just two action items.

In one, the Board continued a hearing with Tabor Academy regarding the school’s athletic field in Plan 13, Lot 44 under Residence C Zoning, long an issue between the entities. Tabor attorney Mark Bobrowski requested the first available date in September, which, for the Board, is Sept. 26.

In pending case No. 671, a request for a special permit from the Herons at 4 Aucoot Rd., the Board unanimously voted to reject the applicant because of the project’s dimensions, which would “exacerbate a pre-existing non-conformance,” Chair Eric Pierce said. “You cannot create a nonconformance.”

The Board did not enter Executive Session, and will next meet on June 6, when it will hear a request for a special permit from Kathleen Mahoney, seeking to demolish the dwelling at 40 Dexter Rd. and construct a new one.

By Shawn Badgley

Rochester Women’s Club Wraps Up Good Year

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With its Annual Meeting on May 2 and the Scholarship Dance on May 4, the Rochester Women’s Club wrapped up an active and successful year. At the Annual Meeting, outgoing president Marsha Hartley recapped activities and events of the year including sponsoring the Rochester Girl Scout troop, hosting a brunch honoring local veterans on Armed Forces Day, joining with the Rochester Land Trust to clean up Rochester roads in celebration of Earth Day, helping out at the Plumb Corner Halloween celebration, sponsoring a Rochester family in need with gifts and food for the holidays. The club maintained its facility by putting on a new roof.

Fundraisers throughout the year were geared toward renewing the club’s Scholarship program after several years in hiatus. Those efforts included Thanksgiving pies, hand-decorated Christmas wreaths, a holiday bake sale, Soups for Scholarships and finally, the successful Scholarship Dance. This graduation season, two $500 scholarships will be awarded to Rochester students.

Nancy Boutin was elected as the club’s President for the coming two years. The Rochester Women’s Club thanks everyone who supported or participated in activities over the past year. Monthly meetings will resume in September. Meetings are held on the first Thursday of the month. All area women are welcome to attend.

ORR Yearbook Club Fundraiser

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Join the ORR Yearbook Club for a carwash, raffle and bake sale on May 26, 1:00 to 4:00 pm, at the Mattapoisett Fire Station. The cost is $5. While you’re waiting, take a chance at our raffle table to win great prizes from our local businesses, or check out our bake sale for lots of yummy treats! Help support our Yearbook Club in raising funds to help publish the 2013 yearbook. Thank you!

The Magic of Therapy Dogs

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It’s a little too soon to be certain, but I think everything’s going to work out just fine. It isn’t easy caring for a baby at this stage in life. Just the lack of sleep alone is draining. Not to mention the constant movement, the bending, lifting, walking, and reaching of it all. This is good fatigue, though. After decades of stress-related chronic fatigue and insomnia I now feel rested after a good night’s sleep, even though it might not be quite long enough. Babies – in this case, puppies – wake up early.

Harry the Havanese joined us on April 24. He was selected based on his breed’s gentle characteristics. This is critical for therapy work. The goal is that Harry and I will be trained to provide care to those in need.

Sure, the learning curve would be steep. But if I learned nothing else from the nearly 35 years I spent within the corporate halls of America displaying my core competencies, using my bandwidth, leveraging competitive knowledge, dripping sweat equity, having ah-hah moments, and then finally doing a brain dump for two new hires as my position was bifurcated … well, let me tell you, I learned I needed a therapy dog immediately.

As a child, owning a dog was something I could only dream of. My mother wasn’t fond of pets, especially ones that might drag dirt into her meticulously clean home. I grew up learning how to keep a home clean the way homemakers instructed in the 1950s. There certainly weren’t any Magic Erasers or multi-action “cleaning bubbles” back then. Washing a floor was done with two pails and rag mops. No pets for us.

So when I purchased my first home about the time my son was eight years old, we got a dog. Zeb was a beautiful German Shepard/Lab mix. He became the best friend a boy could have. Zeb pulled sleds in the winter and bikes in the summer, making it impossible to ever walk him on a leash. But they had fun! For an only child, having a dog to pal around with is essential, in my view. Not only did my son have a buddy to play with, he also had someone to blame whenever things were broken. “How did my vase get broken!?” “I don’t know, the dog must have knocked it over.”

Zeb was my best friend, too. He slept beside my bed at night, rode shotgun while I worked my territory, swam against the incoming tide at the Wareham River, and introduced me to the joys of trying to wash away funk of a non-specific origin that even bleach couldn’t remove. When I felt sad, he’d lay his head on my lap. He was my protector and confessor. That dog knew things. No dog will ever be what Zeb was to me.

But I digress.

Harry is a Havanese. The breed’s soft coat and temperament are perfect for providing humans in need with warmth and love. Of course, training is key. Harry could easily go down the wrong path and become a gangster stealing hearts while nipping at heels.

Enter the trainer. This professional recently proved to me that you can read as many books as is humanly possible to consume on long winter days while watching reruns of The Dog Whisperer With Cesar Milan, and still do things terribly wrong.

At four pounds, mostly hair and bones, Harry is learning but, moreover, I am. I am learning that every movement I make and every word I say is shaping Harry’s behavior. If I fail, he fails. Talk about a demanding performance matrix.

Harry’s future is very bright. I foresee him bringing joy to the people we visit in nursing homes and similar facilities. I’m hoping and therefore will be working toward Harry’s inclusion at reading programs or other types of intervention for kids in need. The calming influence a dog like Harry may impart can’t be measured on a corporate Pareto chart.

But for now, Harry is learning that the bathroom is outside, what “no” really means, and what is allowed to be chewed (which does not include the rugs). He is learning to walk along with our adult dog Max, and that Max is in charge of the play dates.

This pup will grow to about 15 pounds, of which 10 will probably still be hair and bones. The breed hails from Cuba, hence “Havanese.” I’m thinking Harry is a lover, not a fighter. Max, on the other hand, hails from Wales, where the breed (Cairn Terrier) was developed to be ratters, hunting down and killing rodents for farmers. Max is definitely not a lover. But Max is a leader and a darned good one; well, except for his massive barking hatred for the FedEx and UPS trucks, but otherwise … yeah, and the trash truck, but really that’s … oh, and I almost forgot motorcycles … he’s a good leader.

Max from the first day slept through the night, knew the toilet was outdoors, and demanded very little of us except constant exercise. At night, after a day of patrolling the yard for varmints, he’ll pop up on the sofa beside me giving me a soulful knowing look. I’ll scratch his favorite spots and whisper sweet nothings into his waiting ears. This is just between the two of us. But his temperament isn’t well suited for hours of lying around being patted and cooed over. He considers that nonsense. Bring in the lover.

Harry is a tiny package of “What are we going to do now folks?” Yet, when placed in the arms of my mother, whose life in the nursing home revolves around finding the bravery to face another day of confinement in that alternate universe, he melts into her and stays peacefully placid. “I could get used to you,” she told him the other day. I witnessed the magic a dog possesses. I witnessed the gift of joy a dog brings just by being present and allowing a human to stroke its coat. I witnessed my dream slowly coming true: using a dog, this dog, to bring comfort to others. The other dogs were mine exclusively; Harry is for everyone.

Each morning for the last two weeks when Harry awakens at 5:15 and announces “It’s time to go outside,” I’m reminded that I ain’t so young anymore. But I’m happy, tired and happy. Dog magic is working on me, too.

By Marilou Newell

Shipyard Park Concert

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It’s a windy wet day but it didn’t dampen the spirits of the musicians at Shipyard Park. The Junior High band and Chorus entertained the masses through the gusts and mist for a grand kick off to the summer concert season. Photos by Paul Lopes

Projects Aplenty

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Engineers Susan Nilson of CLE and Dave Davignon of Schneider and Associates could have been appointed honorary members during Wednesday night’s Marion Conservation Commission meeting, each spending significant time at the table representing multiple applicants.

And each got what they came for.

Nilson’s clients – Jonathan Howland of Lot 19 Point Road and John Kelly of the Kittansett Club – were approved for Notices of Intent, while the Commission issued Requests for Determination of Applicability to Barbara Belanger of 776 Mill St. and Kathleen Mahoney of 40 Dexter Rd.

Howland seeks to cut an access walking path, replicate wetlands, and construct a pile-supported pier with a floating dock at Planting Island Cove. While Nilson told the Conservation Commission that the opinion of the Marine Fisheries included concerns about the arsenic and copper contained in the chemically treated wood of the submerged pilings, all parties agreed that there are few existing alternatives available for use – and none suggested in the opinion.

In addition, the Marine Fisheries asked if alterations could be made to the height of the walkway and size of the stairs so as not to impact the saltmarsh.

“This is an issue of regulation versus recommendation,” said Nilson, explaining that the Marine Fisheries wishes could conflict with Chapter 91 requirements. “In my mind, it could end up being a tradeoff.”

The Commission gave the project the go-ahead, with conditions, as they did with the Kittansett Club’s plan to construct a collection system for fresh water drainage to be used as irrigation water, and to replace the irrigation system for the golf course. Work on the massive project could begin in July, with a targeted completion by Christmas, according to Kelly.

Belanger seeks to upgrade the sewage disposal system at 776 Mill St. – a property that she is selling – to Title 5 standards, including the installation of a septic tank, pump chamber, and leaching field. Davignon faced a series of questions from Commission members, who ultimately approved the RDA with conditions.

Mahoney, meanwhile, seeks to demolish the dwelling on Dexter Road and construct a new dwelling and driveway. In addition, she applied for a Notice of Intent to construct a 4-foot-by-133-foot timber boardwalk and pier, plus gangway and float supported by four pilings. With some restrictions, the Commission approved both after a continuation from the May 8 meeting.

Elsewhere on the agenda, Dorothy Brown applied for and received a Notice of Intent to update the steps to 7 Shawnondasse Road, along with installation of a drainage system and trench drain.

The Conservation Commission’s next scheduled meeting is June 12.

By Shawn Badgley

Bertrand D. Allain, Jr.

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Bertrand D. Allain, Jr., 63, 0f Mattapoisett died May 22, 2013 at home after a long battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease).

He was the husband of Janet (Lawless) Allain.

Born in New Bedford, the son of the late Bertrand D. and Marie Jacqueline (Brodeur) Allain, he lived in Acushnet and New Bedford before moving to Mattapoisett in 1983.

Bert was a communicant of St. Anthony’s Church in Mattapoisett.

He was formerly employed as a Guidance Counselor at Old Rochester Regional Junior High School for many years until his retirement.

Bert received his Bachelor of Science in Psychology from UMass Amherst, his Masters in School Counseling from Bridgewater State College and his Masters of Educational Psychology from Rhode Island College. He maintained a lifelong passion for teaching and learning.

Bert enjoyed spending time with his family.

Survivors include his wife; a son, Bertrand D. Allain, III and his wife Jennifer of Fairhaven; 2 daughters, Kathryn Pleva and her husband Justin of Raynham and Anne Allain of Mattapoisett; 5 brothers and sisters, Fran Martin and Jackie Hopp, both of Dartmouth, Clem Allain of New Bedford, David Allain of Lakeville and Louise Athaide of Longwood, FL; and many nieces and nephews.

He was the brother of the late Michael Allain.

His Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday at 10 AM in St. Anthony’s Church, Mattapoisett. Burial will follow in St. Anthony’s Cemetery. Visiting hours will be on Monday from 3-8 PM at the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Rd., Route 6, Mattapoisett. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Compassionate Care ALS P.O. Box 1052 West Falmouth, MA 02574. For directions and guestbook, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.

William K. Thomas

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William K. Thomas, 87, of Marion, passed away at home on October 30, 2012. He was the husband of Shirlee L. (Long) Thomas.

Born in Waterbury, Nebraska, he was the son of Edith D. Leeper (Sigmon) and William M. Thomas. He graduated from Wheatland High School, Wheatland, Iowa, and the Naval V-12 program at the University of Notre Dame, South Bend, Indiana. He served in U.S. Navy during World War II and the Korean War and was a reservist for 22 years.

Mr. Thomas was a registered professional engineer. His volunteer accomplishments included: member and chairman of several published standards and specifications with American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers, member and past president of Associated Air Balance Council, Inc., and testing and balancing organization. He founded and was president of Thomas-Young Associates, Inc. for 45 years and was involved with many projects worldwide. Bill had a real passion for the newest and most recent gadgets and technologies. Love of family was of utmost importance to William.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Shirlee and 8 children; Richard and his wife Susan, Ronald and his wife Denise, Diana Lynn and her husband Lewis Booker, Jr., Hilary and her husband Marshall Sadeck, William, Jr. and his wife Donna, Nancy and her husband Alexander Robles, Charles and his wife Allison. He was predeceased by his daughter Heather. He is also survived by 16 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild.

A memorial service to honor his life will be held on Saturday, May 25, 2013 at St. Gabriel’s Episcopal Church, 124 Front Street, Marion at 11:00 am. His ashes were scattered at sea.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his name may be given to St. Gabriel’s Episcopal Church, 124 Front Street, Marion, MA 02738. Arrangements by Chapman, Cole & Gleason Funeral Home, Wareham. For directions and to leave a message of condolence, visit: www.ccgfuneralhome.com

Richard B. Parker

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Richard B. Parker, 77, of Marion died May 21, 2013 at St. Luke’s Hospital after a long illness.

He was the husband of the late Joan B. (Souza) Parker.

Born in Marion, the son of the late George C. and Beatrice Mae (Haskell) Parker, he lived in Marion all of his life.

He was formerly employed as the Building Inspector for the Town of Marion for 23 years until his retirement.

Survivors include his daughter, Kelly Parker and her fiancé Anthony Reynolds of Marion; 3 sisters, Betty Silva of Buzzards Bay, Frances Butterfield and Beverly Wilson, both of Wareham; 2 grandchildren, Bradford and Jamie; and several nieces and nephews.

He was the father of the late Richard B. Parker, Jr. and the grandfather of the late Richard B. Parker, III.

Family Service Association was providing care through its Guardianship Program. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the Family Service Association Guardianship Program, 101 Rock St., Fall River, MA 02720. Private arrangements are with the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Rd., Route 6, Mattapoisett. For on-line guestbook, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.

Marion-Tabor Meeting Upbeat

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For the second time in two months, Marion Town Administrator Paul Dawson and the Board of Selectmen visited the campus of Tabor Academy to meet with Head of School John Quirk. This time, they brought some friends.

Police Chief Lincoln Miller, Fire Chief Thomas Joyce, Health District Director Karen Walega, Harbormaster Michael Cormier, and Board of Health Vice Chair Betsy Dunn joined the lunch gathering on Wednesday afternoon, participating in a free-flowing discussion that ranged from the recent Town Meeting to potential collaborations between Marion and Tabor.

“The school and the town are always doing big things, whether together or separately,” Quirk said. “But I’m a details guy; the little things matter to me a lot. The way we interact with the town matters to me a lot.”

If those interactions had been frosty in the past, they have thawed.

“There has been a noticeable difference in the past year,” Dunn said. “You’ve done a lot.”

Quirk, who started at Tabor in July of 2012, wants to do more. He said that the Solar Bylaws debate at Town Meeting, for instance, inspired him to take a closer look at Tabor’s capacity for sustainable energy.

“Tabor hasn’t been great at utilizing renewable energy,” he said. “I think there are possible partnerships between the town and school, educational opportunities within what has really become an ethical issue.”

Quirk also expressed an ongoing interest in evolving infrastructural policy in and around the Village of Marion. He told officials that he would be addressing his concerns about students’ pedestrian safety by possibly altering study period times that see peak off-campus activity.

“At my previous school, we were located near a reservoir, and I always worried about students’ safety near the water. Ironically, I don’t worry about this ever,” he said, looking out onto Sippican Harbor. “I worry about the street. I worry about Front Street.”

In turn, Quirk thanked Miller for inviting him to various public safety forums.

“You’re responsible for such a high number of people in such a concentrated area,” Miller replied. “It’s that much more important for us to include you.”

In closing, Quirk invited the Marion officials, as well as residents, to visit Tabor’s ongoing Senior Project Exhibition on campus, citing standout achievements in photography, music, the arts, and more.

“I’m looking for more and more ways to have the town participate in these types of events, because I think it’s a cool thing for everybody,” he said.

“There are lots of resources in the town for Tabor, too,” Dunn interjected.

“That’s right,” Quirk agreed. “The kids don’t think of themselves as residents of the town, but they are. We have high expectations for them in and out of class, and they need to be reminded of that.”

By Shawn Badgley