North Street Farmstand Site Plan OK’d

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            Farmer Mike King returned to the Mattapoisett Planning Board on July 7 having submitted a packet of requested documentation for the board at the previous meeting. On this night, the board was now prepared to render a decision regarding the site plan. The review was requested by King in his efforts to gain municipal acceptance of his farmstand at 84 North Street as allowed by the Dover Amendment.

            Although it was noted that the requested materials were delivered late in the day, Chaiman Tom Tucker allowed the submissions given probable difficulties in timing due to the 4th of July holiday. The site plan review hearing was reopened.

            Board member John Mathieu spoke first laying out in detail why the farmstand should be granted permission to operate… “I’m familiar with farms, I have plenty of clients that have farms. They have more than one location and those locations all constitute their farm. To further help because it’s not really truly defined (in the Dover Amendment) one of the things that a farm is required to do or may do is they obtain a farm plate for their vehicles. Part of the application form, the farm plate is application requires they list all their properties and locations in which their farms are operating so to me that is dictating that included in the definition of a farm you have to look at those things that the state recognizes for farms. There’s more than just one location so with that being said and looking at this and looking at knowing Mr. King operates up on Route 6, these two properties constitute his farm as far as I’m concerned.

            So here we are with the site plan for this piece of property obviously we have a copy of his lease from the Fergusons …they’re leasing him the property as a farm, they’re excluding the dwelling house which is fine because the use is being dictated by Mr. King.

            In this situation which is allowed and for that reason and for all the documentation he’s provided showing that he’s got a farm operation here and with this piece of property being 7.3 acres I believe his other property being two 2 1/2 acres, I mean he’s almost at 10 acres of land being farmed we’re also a Right To Farm community and farms are disappearing at a fast rate in Massachusetts.”

            Mathieu continued, “It’s tough to find a piece of property to be a farm or that was a farm and here we got a piece of property which is going to be turned into a mini farm.”

            Mathieu added, “For these reasons I think that he’s satisfied the required site review for this piece of property. He has shown that he’s providing plenty of parking, he’s providing an in and out (access) this is ample I think in my opinion for the use that he’s going to put there.” Mathieu also pointed to the amount of traffic generated by a nearby nursey school and a coffee shop. He said those businesses generate significant traffic on North Street. He also conjectured that the farmstand will slow traffic down.

            Tucker asked for a motion to approve the site plan. All voted to accept and approve the site plan except for member Karen Field. Field was concerned with the late entry of information from King and wanted to ask questions. It was determined that her questions were not germane to a simple site plan review and were not included as part of the recorded proceedings.

            The next meeting of the Mattapoisett Planning Board is scheduled for June 21 at 7:00 pm.

Mattapoisett Planning Board

By Marilou Newell

Ticks All Over

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So far, this tick season has lived up to experts’ predictions regarding severity. The 2025 tick season has already outpaced prior years for tick-bite and tick-borne disease doctor visits. Plymouth County has the second highest level of tick-borne disease visits, at 43 so far this year and behind Dukes/Nantucket with 48 collectively according to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH).

            Cases of Lyme disease have exploded in recent years, especially in the Northeast. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) reported Plymouth County having 1385 new cases of Lyme recorded in 2023 (the last time results were input), as opposed to 639 the year prior. This massive uptick can largely be attributed to more going outside following the end of Covid lockdowns. However, it still remains that cases recorded are higher now than ever.

            Generally, it seems as though anytime you, or a pet, enter into heavy grass, line of a forest, or stray off the path of a trail, you are bound to catch at least one on you looking for a snack. Dog ticks and deer ticks are the most common in the area, with the latter being responsible for the spread of Lyme, though all are capable of carrying some form of disease.

            Rochester, due to high forest coverage, undeveloped areas, and high population of deer and wild animals, would have the highest number of ticks. However, Marion and Mattapoisett are not short of their own foliage, and you should still maintain best practices when outdoors there.

            Both the CDC and the DPH recommend the same preventative strategies. First and foremost, avoid areas where ticks are likely to be. If you have to near their habitat, it’s recommended to wear long sleeves and long pants, though that can be difficult with higher temperatures. Bug repellents, especially with DEET, are effective but only for use on non-infants. If out hiking with someone else, offer to help each other spot for them and remove them ASAP. For children and infants, it’s important to check in folds and behind/inside their ears for ticks as well.

            If you’re worried or overly-anxious about an encounter, speak with a doctor to get their input and monitor the area you were bitten. Don’t let it ruin your summer or even affect your plans. However, be on the lookout and be prepared! Scientists pin the explosion in tick populations to rising temperatures, meaning numbers are not declining any time soon.

By Sam Bishop

Heidi Lee (Medeiros) Correia

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Heidi Lee (Medeiros) Correia, 54, of Mattapoisett passed from this world on July 11, 2025, surrounded by her devoted family, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born and raised in New Bedford, Massachusetts, she was the daughter of William “Billy” Medeiros and Bonnie (Chace) Medeiros.

            Heidi was a graduate of New Bedford High School and went on to earn an associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education. She served as both a teacher and director at childcare centers in Boston and later had a career in corporate training. She lived abroad in Germany for several years before returning to Mattapoisett, where she raised her family and worked for MattSail – the Mattapoisett Community Sailing Association – blending her love of the ocean with her commitment to the community. Heidi was proud to have helped start the Old Rochester HS varsity sail team.

            The ocean was a tremendous part of Heidi’s life. She spent every summer of her life at her family cottage on the beach at Angelica Point in Mattapoisett. She loved swimming, sailing, boating and – especially – quahoging. She could dig a bucket of quahogs in record time and was renowned for her delicious quahog chowder and zuppa dishes. She loved a beach party and could throw together a buffet and a bonfire at a moment’s notice. She was also an excellent listener – she was a sponsor, a source of support and a steady friend to countless people over the years and found great purpose in doing so.

            The greatest accomplishment of Heidi’s life was, by far, her children. Above all else, she loved being a mother and the success and achievements of her children were an enormous source of pride for her. She poured her heart into their lives-cheering the loudest at games, nurturing their dreams, and reminding them every day that they were deeply loved and capable of anything.

            She is survived by her parents and her beloved children; a son, William and a daughter, Ellie, her spoiled dog, Milo, and her former husband, Craig Correia, all of Mattapoisett, as well as many, many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who adored her.

            Heidi and her family would like to thank Erin Knowles, her lifelong best friend and cousin who supported her during her battle. Thank you also to Erica, the nurses and the aids with Community Nurse.

            Heidi’s heroic battle with aggressive colon cancer was an inspiration to everyone who knew her, and her will to live in the face of overwhelming odds was awesome to witness. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the ORR High School sailing program via MattSail, P.O. Box 947, Mattapoisett, MA 02739, or to Community Nurse Home Care, 62 Center St., Fairhaven, MA 02719.

            Her Funeral Service will be held Wednesday, July 16, 2025 at 10 am in the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Rd., Mattapoisett. Burial will follow in Riverside Cemetery. Visiting hours will be Tuesday, July 15th from 4-8 pm. For directions and guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.

Ralph Walston Eustis Jr.

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Ralph Walston Eustis Jr., 92, passed into the hands of our Lord on July 6, 2025, surrounded by loving family and friends. His long life’s voyage has reached a peaceful harbor. He was born in Dalton, MA on January 2, 1933, the first of three children to the late Ralph W. Eustis and Margorie (King) Eustis. Ralph graduated from Westfield High School in 1950. Then he went on to the Coast Guard Academy. In 1955 he graduated with a BA in Engineering and was commissioned as an Ensign US Coast Guard officer; followed by Deputy Commander Far East Section, Tokyo. After an assignment in Washington, DC, Ralph was promoted in 1968 to Commanding Officer of the USCGC Vigilant, whose home port was New Bedford, MA. He had expressed how grateful he was to not only realize his dream of going to sea but to be in command of an excellent crew who knew their job well and could be relied upon to perform it with skill and integrity. After 20 years of service in the Coast Guard, followed by a brief stint of boat building in Mattapoisett, he then spent the next 20 years at Sippican Ocean Systems in Marion, MA where he retired in 1998 as their International Marketing Director. Ralph was predeceased by his beloved wife Merilyn “Merry” Hodgson Eustis and their second son William “Billy” Eustis. Ralph and Merry’s partnership of 63 years took them on many adventures; raising two sons; cruising on their sailboat; traveling all over the world; building their own home on the shores of Mattapoisett, MA. Here in their retirement, husband and wife created a wonderful garden to surround themselves with the beauty of nature. They became an integral part of the community and were happy to have friendships grow among their many neighbors. Skiing was a passion, and Ralph became a long-time member of the National Ski Patrol. Rowing with the Gray Buzzards in New Bedford was another favorite pastime. For over 20 years until a few weeks before his passing, Ralph rowed year-round followed by coffee, discussions and camaraderie. Also in his retirement, Ralph served on the Coast Guard Academy Alumni Board and was part of the design team for the CGA Alumni Center. He had served as Board Chairman and Director of the New Bedford Art Museum. Other institutions close to his heart were the New Bedford Symphony, Habitat for Humanity and the First Congregational Church in Mattapoisett where Ralph had the honor of serving as a deacon. Survivors include his son Ralph Eustis III and wife Karen Perilli Eustis, granddaughter Heather Eustis Ray and husband Jacques Ray; grandson Stephen Eustis; great grandsons Cassius and Oliver Eustis Ray; sister Bette Ascheffenburg; brother Gordon Eustis and his wife Joan Eustis; sister-in-law Joelle Bentley; sister-in-law Julie Broom and her husband Tony Broom; best friend Ginny Hayden and several nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends far away and local. In his twilight years Buzzards Bay became home. At Keystone Place, the assisted living and hospice staff guided him in his final days. His family will be forever grateful to the many staff who provided such a caring and nurturing environment for final goodbyes. Celebration of life services will be held at the Mattapoisett Congregational Church on Friday, August 8, 2025, at 11:00 am followed by a reception in the church hall. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to The Coast Guard Academy Alumni Association, Class of 55 Fund, 47 Mohegan Ave., New London, CT 06320-8111. For online guestbook, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com

Karen Ann Taylor

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Karen Ann Taylor of Marion, MA, passed away peacefully on the morning of July 12 at Tobey Hospital. She is survived by her husband, Captain Michael Taylor of Marion, and her son, Jonathan “JT” Taylor of Washington, D.C.

            Originally from New Britain, CT, Karen was an avid reader, collector of cookbooks, and a devoted crossword puzzle aficionado. She thoroughly enjoyed her time traveling the globe with Michael, at sea and on land.

            Thanks to Tobey Hospital and Sippican Healthcare Center for their care and comfort, and to our dear family friend Nicole Dasilva for her unwavering support and love.

            Donations in her memory may be made to your local library – a fitting tribute to her passion for reading. For online guestbook, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com

Upcoming Summer Programs With The Marion Natural History Museum

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Butterfly Walk With Andrew Griffith Of Mass. Butterfly Association: July 16, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. Join the Marion Natural History Museum for a summer butterfly walk. Andrew Griffith of the Massachusetts Butterfly Association will be leading the walk in Nasketucket State Park, Mattapoisett. We will be identifying local butterfly and moth species while talking about their habitat requirements, life cycles and migration patterns. Let’s have some fun looking for our summer residents. We will be meeting at the park and please plan to wear appropriate clothing for walking through vegetation. This is a free program provided by the Marion Natural History Museum however please RSVP at www.marionmuseum.org so that we know how many to expect. Meet at Nasketucket State Park, Brandt Beach Road, Mattapoisett at 10:00 am ‘till noon.

            Large Whale Vocalizations: July 25, 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Erin Burke, Protected Species Program Manager – MA Division of Marine Fisheries, will be sharing DMF’s new passive acoustic monitoring network in Massachusetts state waters and adjacent areas. These monitors collect information on large whale vocalizations, including the endangered North Atlantic right whale. DMF will use this information to enhance our understanding of the spatial and temporal presence of large whales; inform dynamic management of season fishing gear closures and vessel speed restrictions to protect right whales; and aid in the development of effective and efficient conservation measures. Let’s learn more about how this study will be helpful in protecting our local whale populations. A $10.00 donation to the Marion Natural History Museum is greatly appreciated.

            Learn how to make paper with forester Jim Rassman, July 30, 1:00 pm to 2:30 pm at the museum. Register at www.marionmuseum.org.

             Amazing Animal Ambassadors with Cape Cod captive wildlife care expert Bethany Jakubson, Monday, August 4 at 2:00 pm. Cost is $10.00/family. Seeing wild animals up close can become a child’s treasured memory, open up a whole new world of wonder, and spark a lifelong love of animals. This is the mission of Amazing Animal Ambassadors. Join owner Bethany Jakubson and some of her favorite members of the natural world including Milo the Fennec Fox, Bailey the African Pygmy Hedgehog, Sydney, Prim and Roo the three Sugar Gliders, Ande the Chinchillia, and Buttercup the skunk among others. This presentation has been partially funded by the Marion Cultural Council.

            Early Life History of Humpback Whales: August 8, 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Humpback whale mothers give birth in the Caribbean and travel with their babies to New England waters to feed each summer. This talk will dive into the world of young calves and juveniles of Humpback whales. Associate Professor Kathryn Kavanagh and doctoral student Eman Khwaja will share some recent research on humpback whale behavior. They study the reproductive and developmental biology of vertebrates, including whales. They will share current studies of the humpback whale population – in particular related to maternal care and life history. Tickets: $10.00/family donation is much appreciated.

Mattapoisett Yacht Club Racing

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July 1 & 2 Results – The wind was blowing Tuesday night and the ORR HS team decided to run their races inside the harbor in Molly’s Cove. There was less wind and calmer seas.

            The Ensigns had little problem with the wind but did decide not to fly their spinnakers on the downwind legs. Odyssey and Black Ice battled once again for first place with Odyssey winning the second race and the tie breaker. Uncle Fester racked up a third place for the night. Hamburglar beat Brass Monkey in a tie breaker for fourth place for the night, followed by Brou Ha Ha and new entry Recess.

            Wednesday Night PHRF Racing – Class A – Kindred Spirits, which missed the June series, start July off with a win over No Quarter Given. In third was Coconuts beating Surprise by only 12 seconds.

            Class B -Lindisfarne picked up their first win of the summer, beating out Chickadee. Fir Na Tine followed in third place with Kinsail in fourth.

            In other MYC news, the club will hold a Meet and Greet Social at the MYC tent on July 11.

Blood Tests For Cancer Screening: Should I Get One?

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You may have seen print or television ads promoting the Galleri blood test for “early cancer detection.” Neither this test nor any others are covered by Medicare or commercial insurance, but you can have it if ordered by your doctor and you are willing to pay $949 out of pocket.

            Assuming you can afford it, is it worth it?

            It is considered self-evident that detecting cancer early is better than finding it late, and routine colonoscopy for the detection of early cancer or pre-cancerous polyps does prevent colon cancer deaths. Screening smokers for lung cancer with low-dose chest CT scans has also been shown to reduce the death rate from lung cancer. While somewhat controversial, there is evidence that routine mammograms reduce breast cancer deaths.

            This leaves many cancers for which there is no accepted screening tool. Also, not all eligible people are able or willing to have the tests mentioned. Enter the “liquid biopsy,” a single blood test that promises to detect many cancers.

            These tests work by detecting minute amounts of tumor DNA or abnormal proteins secreted by cancers.

            There are many problems with these tests.

            First, while they are pretty good (90%) at detecting advanced cancer, which has already spread, they are much less effective (15%) at detecting early localized cancers, the kind where early detection and surgery is expected to be life-saving.

            Secondly, they have a high number of “false positives:” an abnormal test but no detectable cancer. In two large studies, enrolling over 16,000 people, 600 people had positive tests. The large majority had no cancer and only 14 had early-stage solid tumors that were treated. Most of the positive tests required extensive imaging and invasive biopsies to be sure there was no cancer.

            To date, there has not been any evidence that screening with a blood test saves lives.

            Bottom line: have your colonoscopy. Have your Pap and mammogram. If you are middle-aged and have smoked, have a screening chest CT.

            I am sure that more precise and actionable tests are on the horizon. For the time being, do not spend your money on a blood test that is unlikely to impact your survival and that may lead to uncomfortable and possibly dangerous testing.

            Edward Hoffer MD is Associate Professor of Medicine, part-time, at Harvard.

What Does The Doctor Say?

By Dr. Edward Hoffer

Solar Array Vote Delayed

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TheRochester Planning Board met briefly Tuesday to continue until its next meeting the Special Permit and Site Plan Review hearing for the proposal from Logging Swamp Solar dba ReWild Renewables to install a solar panel array on 49 acres in the area of 600 Snipatuit Road, a property located within a Residential-Agricultural District and partially within a Groundwater Protection District.

            The vote extends to July 22, the hearing that since last month has been heavily attended by abutters concerned about the project’s effect on their neighborhood. The array’s access road, as currently designed, comes too close to their properties, they have complained.

            Chair Arnold Johnson said Tuesday the developer is working on moving the design of that road. Town Planner Michaela Shoemaker said Tuesday’s vote to continue was due to a quorum issue with the board. The developer was ready to come in with the latest plan.

            Rochester Planning Board’s next meeting will be Tuesday, July 22 at 7:00 pm at Town Hall, 1 Constitution Way.

Rochester Planning Board

By Michael J. DeCicco

Marion Republican Town Committee

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The Marion Republican Town Committee will conduct its next monthly meeting on Monday, July 14 at 7:00 pm at the Marion Music Hall, 164 Front Street, Marion. The public and new members are welcome. We look forward to seeing you there.