Sippican Historical Society Community Service Award

on

The Sippican Historical Society will honor Bob Raymond with its 2026 Community Service Award at their Annual Meeting on June 18.

            “Marion is lucky to have Bob’s architectural experience. His expertise was instrumental in helping with the planning for the renovation of the Town House,” said Frank McNamee, curator of the Sippican Historical Society.

            For more than eight years, Bob contributed to the Marion Town House Feasibility Committee. After residents chose not to build a new administrative building Town House in 2018, work began to create a phased project that focused on the exterior, mechanical systems, accessibility and safety upgrades.

            The building originally served as Tabor Academy’s first academic building in 1876. It is the third administrative building Marion has had since becoming a Town in 1852. The first, located near Old Wharf, burnt down in 1881. Elizabeth Taber paid for its reconstruction. In the 1930’s, the Town and Tabor swapped property. The building at 2 Spring Street will complete final upgrades later this summer.

            Although Bob Raymond grew up in Eastern Massachusetts, his work as an architect specializing in health care facilities has taken him to the South Pacific, the Middle East and Africa. When he and his wife searched for a home port in 1996, the demographics, strong public schools and sailing made Marion home. Currently, his architectural practice is working on a psychiatric hospital in Cameroon and a children’s hospital in Rwanda.

            On June 18, 6:30 pm at the Marion Music Hall, 164 Front Street, the Board of the Sippican Historical Society will recognize Bob’s work. A tree will be planted in his honor at the Town House. Join the Board and members of the Sippican Historical Society to thank Bob for his commitment and for his expertise shared with Marion.

Old Hammondtown School Visit to Cuttyhunk

on

On May 20 the Old Hammondtown School sixth graders boarded the Cuttyhunk Ferry to spend a beautiful day exploring the Island of Cuttyhunk. Students experienced hands on learning by exploring the natural beauty of marshes, as well as both the calm and the island’s wild wave battered shores.

            Students put on waders to explore eelgrass meadows up close and learned the importance the water flora has on our marine environment and the aquatic food web. The Mass Audubon lead explorations of some of the shorebirds that migrate to the island to nest and raise their young. A local oyster farmer discussed the business of oyster farming and how important the ecological environment that is needed for oyster growth and the contributions shellfish have on the water quality. A fun favorite among the students was trying their hands at crabbing along the docks.

            This field trip was organized by Ben Squire, the OHS and Center School science teacher and Michelle Carvalho a local resident of Cuttyhunk and the STEAM Academy Director.

Annual Marion Town Party

on

Save the Date. The Annual Marion Town Party returns on Saturday, July 25, (rain date: Sunday, July 26) on the grounds of Silvershell Beach on Front Street. This community celebration supports the Marion Cultural Council and the Marion Firefighters Association.

            Festivities kick off at 4:00 pm with plenty to enjoy: delicious food and beverages for purchase, free children’s activities (including a climbing rock wall), live music from Marion’s own Flashback, and lots more fun for all ages.

            We’re looking for sponsors and volunteers to help make this event a success.

            For questions or to get involved, please contact Donna Hemphill at 508-748-3520 or dhemphill@marionma.gov.

ORR Students Awarded in Essay Contest

on

Engagement is key to learning about our world. With this in mind, the Marion Democratic Town Committee (MDTC) sought to promote the interest of Old Rochester Regional students in an essay contest that would require investigation and learning about democracy. After several meetings, beginning in September with Dr. Erich Carroll, social studies department head, an essay contest was designed to answer the question- ” What is Democracy?” One ORR course, offered to juniors and seniors, is “Modern American Politics and Government”. The course description aligned perfectly with our MDTC goals to encourage learning about our government.

            On May 26, awards were bestowed upon four essay writers- all students in their junior year. First place winner was Isabelle Ortega, second place was Catherine Sylvia-Everett, third place was Emma Costa, and fourth place was Luke Pierre. Congratulations to all.

            The Marion Democratic Town Committee is looking forward to offering a similar challenge to next year’s junior and senior students. The committee thanks Principal Michael Devoll and Dr. Carroll. We also thank the students for meeting the writing criteria and for their esteemed accomplishments. We are grateful for the time our judges took to score the admissions in finding the best of the best.

Boston Post Cane Ceremony Honors Marion’s Eldest Resident

on

Roy Wilson “Will” Wingate is Marion’s eldest resident, and he was honored last week with the Boston Post Cane in celebration of his 101st birthday.

            A Boston Post Cane is a gold-headed ebony cane periodically offered to the eldest citizen of a New England town. The now-defunct Boston Post newspaper began the tradition in 1909. The canes belong to the town, but they are passed from one eldest resident to the next.

            Wingate’s daughter was in attendance along with his 100-year-old wife Ann. They were joined by family, friends, Town Administrator Geoffrey Gorman, state Rep. Mark Sylvia, and members of the Marion Select Board – Chair John W. Hoagland, Vice Chair Carleton (Toby) Burr Jr., and Clerk Randy L. Parker.

            Parker and Rep. Sylvia both gave speeches to mark the occasion.

            “A century of life in and of itself is an achievement, but a life so richly lived, devoted to family, service, hard work and adventure, deserves special recognition,” Parker said.

            Wingate was born May 16, 1925, in Arlington, New Jersey. As a member of the U.S. Air Force during World War II, he intercepted covert intelligence involving foreign-language communications. He later established himself in a successful construction management career, creating opportunities for residents of New Bedford, Virginia and Florida. He and his wife have traveled to 28 countries in their lives. Scotland was their favorite.

            When the couple was asked about their secret to longevity, Wingate’s wife answered, “Being married for 71 years.”

            The Wingates raised five children and are now grandparents to seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Rep. Sylvia described them as Marion’s “power couple.”

            “It is our privilege to honor a life of service, integrity, family, curiosity and contribution,” Parker said. “May Mr. Wingate’s story continue to inspire generations to come.”

Mark Denis LaBrie

on

It is with deep sadness and love that the family of Mark Denis LaBrie, of Westport, Massachusetts, announces his passing on May 30, 2026, at the age of 73. Mark was born on April 18, 1953, in Chicopee, Massachusetts, to Omer Denis LaBrie and Marion Balthazar LaBrie. He lived a life defined by generosity, hard work, faith, family, and quiet strength.

            Mark married his high school sweetheart, Kathleen “Kathy” Sullivan LaBrie, and together they built a life centered around family, loyalty, and care. Mark had a playful spirit, a magnetic personality, and an easy likability that drew people to him. One of the greatest gifts Mark gave to those around him was the way he made people feel truly loved. The words he said most often were simple but powerful: “I love you.” Whether in person or at the end of a phone call — even if it was the third call of the day — those words were always there.

            Mark gave without expecting anything in return. He loved without judgment, forgave easily, and found genuine joy in seeing others succeed. He was a dream maker, a cheerleader, a confidant, and a source of endless hugs that felt like a blanket of warmth. He put others before himself and lived with a selflessness that will long be remembered by all who knew him.

            Mark lived as a steward — of his family, his work, his friendships, and the people entrusted to him. He believed that what you build in life is not only for yourself, but for those who come after you. He took responsibility seriously, cared deeply for the people around him, and tried to leave things better than he found them.

            Professionally, Mark spent more than 45 years in the international moving and relocation industry, beginning as a helper and rising through hard work, determination, and care to become a respected executive, entrepreneur, and business owner. He served as Managing Director with Paramount Transportation Systems, one of the world’s leading international household goods relocation firms, and later started and owned Patriot Relocation Services, a company that became one of his great pride and joys. He cared deeply for his employees and believed in doing things the right way.

            Outside of work, Mark was an avid outdoorsman who loved spending time with family and close friends deer hunting and fishing. He especially cherished his time on Anticosti Island, where he shared countless memories with many friends and family members over the years. He also loved taking his grandchildren fishing and was proud of his golden trout catches, memories that reflected both his love of the outdoors and the joy he found in sharing it with the people he loved.

            Mark also took great pride in building and creating with his hands. He appreciated the craftsmanship of a project done well and was especially proud of the family’s first home on Marion Road in Middleboro, which he built himself. It was more than a house; it reflected his work ethic, determination, and pride in building a life for his family.

            No matter how hard things became, even when Mark did not see a clear path forward himself, he always had a way of giving others the confidence they needed to carry on and stand tall. He lived that example himself and, in doing so, became an example for others.

            Mark leaves behind a legacy of leading with love — a legacy that will be remembered, carried forward, and passed down by his family for generations.

            Mark was predeceased by his parents, Omer and Marion LaBrie.

            He is survived by his beloved wife, Kathleen “Kathy” Sullivan LaBrie; his daughter, Kara LaBrie Fitch, and her husband, Brian, of Middleboro, Massachusetts, and their children, Riley, Brodie, Logan, and Nora; his son, Colin LaBrie, and his wife, Michaela, of Mattapoisett, Massachusetts, and their children, Cormac, Reed, and Laina; his brother, Wayne LaBrie, and his wife, Naomi; his sister, Sandy LaBrie Jane, and her husband, Rod; his brother, Kevin LaBrie, and his wife, Kristen; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, friends, employees, and all those whose lives he touched.

            Mark will be remembered most for the love he gave so freely, the pride he took in his family, the people he helped, the hugs he gave, the confidence he instilled, and the simple words that defined him best:

            “I love you.”

            A funeral Mass will be held June 6, 2026, at 11:00 am at St. John the Baptist, Westport, Massachusetts, an open celebration of life will be held immediately following from 12:30 pm to 4:00 pm at the home of Colin and Michaela LaBrie in Mattapoisett. Family and friends may contact the family for details.

            In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mark’s memory to the Friends of Jack Foundation, which supports children and families across the SouthCoast through programs focused on pediatric health, comfort, and well-being, at https://fundraise.givesmart.com/form/3znbDA?vid=1kbgxn.

            Donations may also be made to Wankinquoah Junior Associates, 112 Pine Street, Middleboro, MA 02346, for the Tihonet Annual Fishing Derby, in memory of Mark LaBrie.

Screenshot

Mattapoisett Free Public Library

on

Our Spring Storytime Session has wrapped up. We look forward to starting up the Summer Storytime Sessions, starting with Family Storytime on Thursday, June 18, and Baby Storytime on Friday, June 19, both at 10:30 am.

            Our Play Group and Play Club are also on break for the summer. Both groups have been enthusiastically attended, and we look forward to all the fun that the fall will bring.

            Our flooring replacement is in its final stages, and we are still on track to reopen on Tuesday, June 2. We are so excited to have everyone see it and enjoy the space once again. Come on down if you have the chance.

            On Friday, June 5, at 3:30 pm, our Kids’ Graphic Novel Book Club will be meeting for the last time until the fall. There’s still time to pick up a copy of the book: “The Cartoonist Club” by Raina Telgemeier and Scott McCloud. Copies are available near the media lab upstairs. Contact faguiar@sailsinc.org with any questions.

            Last but not least, we are finalizing our plans for our 2026 Summer Reading Program – which will start on June 23. We have a lot of exciting events planned, and we can’t wait to share it all with you once everything is ready to go. Keep your eyes peeled.

            More information about all of our programs is available on our website, mattapoisettlibrary.org, or by calling 508-758-4171. We hope to see you in the library soon. Until then, keep reading.

Nancy E. Norton

on

Nancy E. Norton, 84, of Naples, Florida, and Mattapoisett, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on May 29, 2026, surrounded by family.

            Born in Boston, Nancy was the daughter of Mary V. (Nestor) Auclair and Oscar Auclair. She grew up in Jamaica Plain, where she gained warmth, resilience, and devotion to family-qualities that defined her life.

            In 1960, Nancy married Robert L. Norton. Together they shared over sixty years of marriage, building a life around family, friendship, travel, and community. They raised their family in Norfolk, Massachusetts, later retiring in Naples, Florida, and spending summers in Mattapoisett, Massachusetts. Robert predeceased Nancy on June 22, 2024.

            Nancy was a devoted mother to Robert L. Norton Jr. and his wife, Pamela, of Wellesley. She was also the mother of Mary K. Norton and her husband, Michael Feinberg, of Medfield, and of Thomas Norton and his wife, Cheri Alix, of Norfolk.

            She was a proud and loving grandmother to Sarah Neiterman and her husband, Daniel, of Boston, Massachusetts; Joshua Norton of Wellesley, Massachusetts; Kayla V. Feinberg and her husband, Garrett Ledbetter, of Norfolk, Massachusetts; Nicholas Feinberg and his fiancée, Sucha Chantaprasopsuk, of Chicago, Illinois; and Thomas Alix Norton of Upton, Massachusetts. Nancy was also blessed with the joy of becoming a great-grandmother to Oliver Ledbetter. His arrival brought her tremendous happiness.

            Nancy is survived by her sister, Joan Lake of Norwood, Massachusetts; her cherished nieces Karen Hays and Kathleen Marino both of Naples, Florida, and Janet Chagnon of Greenfield, Massachusetts; and many other beloved nieces and nephews related to the Lake, Burns and Norton families. She will be remembered for the birthday and anniversary cards she sent for decades. No milestone went unnoticed; no loved one was forgotten.

            Nancy possessed remarkable artistic talents. She was an accomplished oil painter, inspired by the South Coast of Massachusetts. She skillfully captured its landscapes with affection. She was also an expert seamstress, creating clothing, furnishings, and handmade items with care. Her passion for sewing led to many years at the Franklin Mill Store, where she shared her expertise. She was a gifted knitter. Her sweaters, scarves, and handmade gifts kept loved ones warm through New England winters.

            A longtime resident of Naples and Mattapoisett, Nancy embraced both communities, joining book clubs, gatherings, and events, and forming lifelong friendships. In the Point Connett community of Mattapoisett, Nancy was cherished for her kindness and thoughtfulness. She had a gift for bringing people together, organizing gatherings, contributing decorations and artwork, and always offering a helping hand. Nancy enriched lives, fostered cherished traditions, and created lasting memories.

            Nancy and Bob shared a love of travel and adventure. They explored historic cities, exotic destinations, and scenic coastlines. They enjoyed tranquil cruise ports. Their travels created treasured memories and stories. These reflected their shared curiosity and deep enjoyment of the world.

            After being diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia, Nancy faced her illness with grace and courage. Her family is grateful for the compassionate care from her physicians, nurses, and caregiver, including teams at Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and Southcoast Health.

            In accordance with Nancy’s wishes, no public services are planned. Her family will gather privately in Mattapoisett later this summer. In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who wish to honor Nancy’s memory to donate to Blood Cancer United at www.bloodcancerunited.org.

            The family invites loved ones to honor Nancy by spending time together, creating something beautiful, or connecting with others-simple acts that reflect her life. For online guestbook, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com

Washington and the Congress

on

            This week in Revolutionary War history, let’s check up on what was going on 250 years ago in New England and the northern Thirteen Colonies. Last week, the occupying Continental Army in Canada faced another defeat as it becomes clearer that holding Montreal is untenable, let along capturing Quebec. General George Washington set out a system of signals for New York City to warn of encroaching Royal Navy ships, as the general himself departed for Philadelphia to speak to the Continental Congress. More are calling for full independence, both on the ground and in the seats of government.

            On May 24, 1776, Washington arrives in Philadelphia. At the time, it is the largest city in the colonies by population. There, he meets with delegates from the Continental Congress an discusses the unfolding and widening war. The major discussion, however, is Canada. The delegates and Washington agree the men in Canada should fortify along the Saint Lawrence River and block the British advance. With warming temperatures, more British troops are arriving in Quebec and the delegates say the Continental Army must “contest every foot of the ground with the enemies to these colonies.”

            Washington writes to Major General John Thomas, commanding officer of the men in Quebec, acknowledging the failures to take the city as, “this unfortunate affair has given a sad shock to our schemes.” He also adds, “retreat is almost inevitable,” but asks for a “good stand” to protect the northern front of the war. He says, “The lower down you can maintain a stand the more advantageous it will be,” meaning to block movement down and along the river further to the south. He finishes, “This misfortune must be repaired.”

            The next day, the general again attends a meeting of the congress, speaking to the whole congregation at the State House, now known as Independence Hall. The congress appoints John Adams of Massachusetts (future President), Benjamin Harrison V of Virginia (father and great-grandfather to two future Presidents), Major General Horatio Gates of England, and Thomas Mifflin of Pennsylvania to a committee to work directly with Washington in order to “concert a plan of military operations for the ensuing campaign.”

            While Washington remains in Phili, Major General Philip Schuyler writes on May 26 from Fort George, New York. He warns of insufficient manpower in Canada whom are also facing “difficulties for want” of supplies. He states he is working to muster up more men, but requests more weapons and arms be sent up posthaste.

            That same day, the Great Barrington, Sheffield, and Canaan Committees for Safety write to Washington from the Berkshires. They have conducted investigations as to the loyalty of various persons accused of treason; of which Philip Schuyler is one. The committees say they “took all those methods they could devise to find out the sentiments of the general.” Though they add, “it is with great pleasure we are able to acquaint your Excellency – that their suspicions respecting him were wholly groundless.”

            On May 27, twenty-one delegates of the Six Nations of the Iroquois (or the Haudenosaunee Confederacy) arrive in Philadelphia. For the next month, they will stay in the city, observe the congress, and watch military exercises and parades as the Americans try to secure new allies. In one of the meetings they attended, they received a warm welcome whereupon at the end of the meeting, an Onondage chief requested and was granted permission to give President Hancock an Indian name: Karanduawn, or, “the great tree.”

            On May 29, working-class artisans and laborers on New York sign the “New York Mechanics Declaration of Independence,” pressuring the New York Provisional Congress to declare the colony’s formal independence. It begins, “When we cast a glance upon our beloved continent, where fair freedom, civil, and religious, we have long enjoyed, whose fruitful field have made the world glad, and whose trade has filled with plenty of all things, sorrow fills our hearts to behold her now struggling under the heavy load of oppression, tyranny, and death.” In pushing the local government, they also knowingly pressure the united government in Philadelphia, as the finish, “We – hereby publicly declare that, should you, gentlemen of the honorable Provincial Congress, think proper to instruct our most honorable Delegates in Continental Congress to use their utmost endeavors in that august assembly to cause these United Colonies to become independent of Great Britain, it would give us the highest satisfaction; and we hereby sincerely promise to endeavor to support the same with our lives and fortunes.”

            On May 30, Benjamin Franklin finally return form his two-month long trip to Montreal. This would be his first diplomatic mission, and though he had just recently celebrated his 70th birthday, his government service was nowhere near over.

This Week in Revolutionary War History

By Sam Bishop

Ticks, World Cup Bring Disease

on

            From tick control to vaccine refrigeration issues, the Marion Board of Health met on May 21 and discussed a wide array of topics.

            The board meeting was held at the Police Station conference room after the re-election of Albin Johnson III. The board named Dr. Edward Hoffer as the new chair and Dr. John Howard as the vice chairman, per tradition after an election. Hoffer is running for re-election next year. Johnson is now the board’s clerk.

            Marion Health Director Lori Desmarais said tick issues are on the rise, and in response there are tick-removal kits available at the town’s Health Department office, and health officials were giving out some of the kits at the last annual Town Meeting. State officials say there is a rise in ticks this year, and they are more active in the spring.

            Desmarias also said that the Health office’s refrigeration system, used to store vaccines, broke down recently. Howard mentioned that there is less federal funding now for the newer systems, but board members and Desmarais agreed that the old system was reliable. Desmarais said there are revolving funds available for a new system.

            The board endorsed a new policy that addresses how town officials should legally address vacant homes or lots. However, Johnson questioned how the board should handle complaints about those who illegally live in abandoned homes. Johnson questioned who would enforce the law and how the board would respond. Hoffer and Howard said the issue is beyond the board’s jurisdiction. Howard said that there are state laws that address illegal use of vacant homes.

            Desmarais said, with international soccer coming to Massachusetts, people should be aware of new diseases or health issues coming from foreigners who attend World Cup games. Health officials noted that Marion is distant from Foxborough and the MBTA commuter rail does not pass through the town. They also mentioned the town does not have hotels. However, Desmarais said anyone who attends the games should be aware of this warning.

            Desmarais reported that one town beach has been tested, and all 10 of them will be tested in early June.

            Desmarais also mentioned that the state has issued warnings about rabies, and people should be cautious around wild animals and should take action if their dog is bitten by another dog or a wild animal. She said anyone with a bat in the home should call Animal Control immediately, which would capture the bat and test it for rabies.

            The next meeting of the Marion Board of Health is scheduled for Thursday, June 4 at 4:30 pm in the Marion Police Department’s conference room.

Marion Board of Health

By Jeffrey D. Wagner