Friends of the Elizabeth Taber Library Gala Event

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A performance of her latest dramatization, “Her Majesty–Queen Elizabeth II” will be presented on Sunday, March 24 at the Marion Music Hall by actress Sheryl Faye. The performance will be preceded by an elegant Afternoon Tea at 3 pm featuring in the British manner, a selection of sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and preserves and a variety of special sweets.

            This gala event, of appeal to both men and women, is sponsored by the Friends of the Elizabeth Taber Library, a fund-raising and support group for the library. Tickets, which are $40, can be purchased from a member of the Friends or at the library. Only 100 tickets will be sold, and are limited to those age 12 and older. Tables of four or six can be reserved by calling Paula Meere at 508-274-3195. Gluten-free needs can be communicated to her, as well.

            Janet Wallace, President of the Friends, is pleased to announce that this will be the first performance in the area of this new one-act play about the queen by Sheryl Faye. Ms Faye has an enthusiastic following among those who have enjoyed her other portrayals of historic women, which include Ruth Bader Ginsberg, Helen Keller and Eleanor Roosevelt and others that she has brought to life in the 20 years in which she has been developing her repertoire.

Mattapoisett Yacht Club Cruising Club

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Join in the fun as MYC announces its 2024 Cruising dates and locations. Membership does have its privileges and MYC is now accepting new members. To join: www.mattapoisettyc.org/membership-registration.

            First Cruise: June 28-29-30. Bassett Island cruise at Redbook Harbor leaving on Friday afternoon and returning on Sunday. Activities include gatherings in evenings at Bassett Island or Pocasset Landing and/or Chart Room in Cataumet.

Cruise Captain: Wesley

            Second Cruise: July 3-7. Fourth of July Cruise to Marion, New Bedford, and Edgartown. Join for one night or several. The dates may change depending on date of fireworks in Marion.

Cruise Captain: Ken

            Third Cruise: July 19-August 6. Extended cruise to Maine. Harbors include Gloucester, Kittery Maine, Portland ME, Boothbay harbor, North Haven and return through Kittery Maine, Gloucester, and Provincetown. Departure from each harbor will be based upon weather and cruise captain directives.

Cruise Captain: Carlos

            Fourth Cruise: August 30-September 3. Labor Day Cruise includes Cuttyhunk and Return Home or extend through Narragansett Bay. Social gathering and beach fire at Cuttyhunk is anticipated based upon weather.

Cruise Captain: Wesley

            Fifth Cruise: Elizabeth Islands Fall Cruise September 20-22. This cruise will start in Mattapoisett Harbor with destinations to Hadley’s Harbor, Tarpaulin Cove or Menemsha depending on weather and wind directions.

            Further information will be provided as we approach the date.

MHC Needs Your Help

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The Mattapoisett Historical Commission has contracted with a Preservation Consultant to complete a multiphase community-wide inventory of its historic and cultural resources. Holy Ghost Grounds has been identified as a priority resource due to its significance in the history and development of the Town of Mattapoisett.

            The Commission is looking for information and old photographs to include in its documentation of Holy Ghost Grounds. We would be most appreciative if you could forward copies to the Commission. Please submit copies only as we have no secure storage.

            The inventory of historic resources is documented on Massachusetts Historical Commission forms. The forms are forwarded to the Massachusetts Historical Commission where they are digitized and placed on an easily accessible website. They are also available in hard copy at the public library.

            Please email Rachel McGourthy: cranber440@aol.com with any information.

            Thank you for your help in preserving and protecting the history of Mattapoisett.

Transportation Bids Will Drive Bus

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            The transportation bid process is a key to the FY25 Old Rochester Regional and Mattapoisett Schools’ budget, according to ORR Superintendent of Schools Mike Nelson, who introduced an Initial Budget Discussion during the Mattapoisett School Committee’s January 31 public meeting.

            “That’s a big domino for us,” said Nelson, recognizing a statewide trend in increased cost, as the committee began its review and discussion of the FY25 Budget.

            Nelson anticipates holding a budget subcommittee meeting in the very near future. He was waiting on the closing out of the transportation bid process. As of the January 31 meeting, the busing contract for all six ORR District schools was out for bid.

            After distributing estimates for shared services, Nelson projects a public hearing on the budget for late winter/early spring.

            In her Chairperson’s Report, Carly Lavin focused on the midway point of the school-year journey, that passage offering an opportunity to reflect, take stock and then look ahead to the second half of the academic calendar.

            “The first half of the year has been a testament to resilience, commitment and innovation by our educational community. Our students have not only advanced academically, they’ve also grown as individuals, learning lessons … and responsibility,” said Lavin, reading from a prepared statement.

            Lavin credited the teachers for their part in helping shape the character of their students. She praised the faculty for its adaptability, considering it key to overcoming any obstacles, and described the teachers’ creativity and resourcefulness as inspiring.

            “I think, as we look forward, the second half of the year holds so much promise,” said Lavin, stressing the importance of collaboration between teachers, parents, the administration and the school committee.

            In the Administration Report, Nelson was happy to note that newsletters are forthcoming from all six schools on the new ORR District website and that the “ORRconnect” mobile app has officially been launched. He called it a big step in enhancing communications. The app gives real-time updates in all manner of information sharing and messages. He also encouraged constituents to follow the ORR Connect Facebook page.

            Dr. Shari Fedorowicz said monthly implementation meetings continue on the rollout of the district-wide literacy program and anticipated a Literacy Night scheduled for February 7.

            “Literacy is our primary focus right now,” said Nelson, noting that the district is being “very careful” not to create initiative fatigue.

            Dr. Laura Ashley, the principal at Center School, reported on a standing-room-only crowd for a recent Kindergarten initiation night and said the second and third graders were enriched by a visit with the New Bedford Symphony Orchestra.

            Nelson announced that the principal’s job for Old Hammondtown School has been posted and that he would soon be forming a search committee. Kevin Tavares is retiring at the end of the school year.

            The meeting began with a recognition presentation. Two new staffers were welcomed, including Steve Medeiros the groundskeeper and principal’s secretary Erin Monteforte, and two staff members, music teacher Willow Dowling and Center School secretary Lori Sevigny, were recognized as they leave the ORR District.

            Committee member Jim Muse, attending the meeting via Zoom, said Sevigny set an example for all people in every level of the school district to follow. During her report, Lavin echoed Muse’s sentiments.

            The next meeting of the Mattapoisett School Committee is scheduled for Thursday, March 21, at 6:30 pm at Center School and live via Zoom.

Mattapoisett School Committee

By Mick Colageo

Girls Hoop Heats Up

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The Old Rochester Regional High School girls’ basketball team defeated Somerset Berkley, 45-40, on February 9, as Amber Engel was named the player of the game. The Bulldogs took a five-game winning-streak and a 14-3 record into their February 14 showdown against Apponequet (16-3) in Lakeville.

            ORR wraps up its regular season with three non-league games. They look to avenge an early-season loss to Dartmouth, facing the Indians on Thursday, February 15, at 6:30 pm in Mattapoisett. The Bulldogs visit New Bedford on Tuesday, February 20, at 1:30 pm and then finish the season on home court against Bishop Stang on Thursday, February 22, at 6:30 pm.

Boys Basketball

            The ORR boys’ basketball team beat Greater New Bedford Voc-Tech, 78-60, on February 6, improving its record to 13-4. John Butler was named the player of the game. The Bulldogs’ home game scheduled for Tuesday against Apponequet (10-6) was postponed amidst a snowy forecast. ORR continues its season-ending homestand with games Friday, February 16, against Bishop Stang and Tuesday, February 20, against South Coast Conference rival Fairhaven. Both games tip off at 6:30 pm.

Hockey

            The ORR/Fairhaven hockey team faced Bourne on February 7 and won 4-2, improving its record to 10-7-1. Connor Galligan scored two goals for the Bulldogs and was named the player of the game. Justin Marques had two assists. The playoff-bound Bulldogs will play their final regular-season game on Tuesday, February 20, against Apponequet (5-12) at 3:00 pm at Driscoll Memorial Rink in Fall River.

By Aiden Comorosky

FCCR Chili Supper

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The community is invited to a Chili Supper at First Congregational Church of Rochester, 11 Constitution Way, Rochester, on Saturday, February 24 at 5:00 pm. Tickets are $8/person, under 10 years old eat free. Proceeds will go to the Fellowship Hall Roof Repair Fund. Contact the church office at rochestercongregational@comcast.net or 508-763-4314 to reserve your tickets.

Sippican Thanks V.A.S.E. for Support

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Old Rochester Regional Superintendent of Schools Mike Nelson recognized the Volunteers at Sippican Elementary (V.A.S.E.) organization for their ongoing support of student learning and programming. V.A.S.E.’s primary objectives are to provide Sippican students with enrichment beyond the classroom environment and to support teachers and staff.

            “In my 22 years as a school administrator, I have never experienced a parent-run school support group as comprehensive and involved as our V.A.S.E. Team at Sippican School,” said Sippican Assistant Principal Peter Crisafulli. “They provide the school with amazing financial support through fundraisers. They provide opportunities for student educational enrichment by creating and staffing high-quality after-school programs. V.A.S.E. is setting a very high standard in the world of local school support groups, and we are very lucky to have them.”

            Each year V.A.S.E. volunteers raise money for annual field trips for every grade at Sippican. With the exception of sixth grade, field trips are offered at no charge to students and staff chaperones. In addition to covering field trip expenses, V.A.S.E. conducts the work needed to schedule and book each field trip and, where applicable, manages permissions slips through the use of the online platform, FamilyID.

            Some of the field trips include visits to the Plymouth Patuxet Museums and the Mayflower, the Cape Cod Natural History Museum, the New Bedford Symphony Orchestra and a three-day field trip to Camp Burgess. Other day trips to local zoos, museums and the beach were all funded and coordinated by V.A.S.E. volunteers.

            “V.A.S.E. is such a wonderful part of our school community,” said second-grade teacher Ashley Sweatland. “They help facilitate amazing opportunities for our students- from fundraisers, to field trips, school-wide events and after school programs. V.A.S.E. helps enrich the lives of all of our students, and as teachers, we are so grateful for our partnership.”

            Over the past two years V.A.S.E. has coordinated presentations from many performing artists who have engaged with students during school meetings, classroom visits and community events. Presentations and performances from the Fall River Mad Scientist Program, Kanaley School of Irish Dancing, Author Bill Harley, Band Blast Performing Artist El Caribe, Arts in Action: Boston Artist Bren Bataclan, New Bedford Youth Ballet and more.

            V.A.S.E. also organizes a separate program called After Class Enrichment (A.C.E.) A.C.E. is free and runs once per week for four weeks, twice per school year. Any Sippican Elementary student is able to attend, and dozens of kids participate each year. Students take part in a number of courses and activities in areas such as arts and crafts, drama, foreign language, athletics, reading and more.

            Some of the A.C.E. fall 2023 courses included a book club, jewelry making, 3D printing, robotics club and intramural sports. The winter 2024 sessions included gratitude crafts, introduction to French, a collective art project and others.

            “We appreciate the V.A.S.E. volunteers for their consistent effort in coordinating and funding these educational and memorable activities for our students,” said Nelson.

            V.A.S.E. holds multiple fundraisers throughout the year, making it possible to secure these day-to-day activities for students. The Boosterthon is their largest fundraising effort that raises funds for all enrichment activities and grosses over half of all monies needed to support V.A.S.E.’s annual budget.

            This year’s Boosterthon theme is “World Changer Workshop”, taking place March 1-12. Students will learn about what it takes to make a difference by being introduced to a number of character lessons. This fundraiser is the students’ most favorite event that includes an indoor, glow-in-the-dark “Fun Run” in which students run laps for donations toward V.A.S.E.’s enrichment programs.

12u Baseball Team Fundraiser

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The 12U Buzzards Bay Baseball team is hosting a fundraiser featuring live music, over $4,000 in raffle prizes and a spirited corn hole tournament to raise funds for their upcoming tournament in Cooperstown, NY this summer. The event is scheduled for Saturday, March 2 from 4:00 to 9:00 pm at the spacious indoor venue at Stone Path Malt in Wareham, conveniently located near Wareham Crossing. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase at the venue. This is a kid-friendly event so all are welcome to attend.

            Proceeds from this event support the team’s participation in the renowned Cooperstown Dreams Park tournament in July, known as “America’s Baseball Summer Camp.” Our local community has hundreds of alumni (players and coaches) who have been to the Cooperstown tournament and describe their experience as “unforgettable.”

            Admission to the event is free. There are cash prizes for first and second place in the corn hole tournament, which has a $20 participation fee. To secure a spot in the corn hole tournament, it is highly encouraged to preregister using the Scoreholio app (search for Buzzards Bay Baseball) or by filling out the form on our website, BuzzardsBayBaseball2024.com.

Curtain Calls for Szyndlar, Stoltenberg

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            Though it might add approximately $70,000 to the town budget, the Rochester Finance Committee Monday approved recommending a 3% Cost of Living Adjustment increase for all contract town employees for Fiscal Year 2025.

            The vote came after Finance Director Suzanne Szyndlar advised the board to set the COLA figure right away so the committee will know what salary increases they are dealing with when they work their way through building the FY25 budget.

            Town Administrator Glenn Cannon added that he and the Select Board prefer voting the increase now for that very reason. The increase must be approved by the Select Board at its next meeting on Tuesday, February 20.

            Szyndlar said a 3% increase will add $70,000 to the town budget; a 2.5% increase would have added $60,000.

            The discussion began with Szyndlar’s overview of what the town knows now about budget year 2025. Szyndlar she said she is presently working with a lot of estimates and level-funding of every department without a specific budget request. Even with that approach, the town is short $120,000 on the revenue side. “This will be a tougher year than normal,” she said. “We are looking at a lot of nickel-and-dime-ing this year.”

            David Arancio was the lone Finance Committee member to abstain from voting for the increase, protesting that the decision was being made too soon after receiving the budget information. “To set it at 3% five minutes after getting all this information is not ideal,” he said. “My hesitation is that I never like to make a quick decision like that.”

            Before seeking a motion for the vote, Finance Committee Chairman Kristian Stoltenberg asked what is the current Federal Consumer Price Index, a barometer of the country’s cost-of-living level. Board member Justin Bouley noted the CPI is, in fact, around 3%.

            Stoltenberg seemed satisfied. “I see no advantage to defer the decision,” he said. “Three percent is a reasonable reflection of the CPI. And we’re all here now.”

            In other action, Stoltenberg was reappointed chairman but announced this will be his last year on the FinCom. “I said I’d serve a maximum of 39 years, and this is my 39th year,” he said. “A friend brought me here then, and I’ve been here ever since. There will be opportunities next year for other people to step up.”

            The committee appointed James Austin as vice chairman and Arancio as secretary with assistance from Bouley, a new member.

            Cannon announced another retirement from the town’s financial services departments, as the committee reviewed and approved several department budgets that will not include COLA increases. He advised the committee that funds should be added to the Finance Director account for FY25 because this will be Szyndlar’s last year at town hall; the former town administrator and town accountant will soon retire from the job that was created to keep her on when she stepped down from the town administrator role. Cannon explained the funds will be needed to find Szyndlar’s replacement and hire and train any temporary replacements.

            The Finance Committee will next meet on Monday, March 4, at 7:00 pm at Town Hall, 1 Constitution Way.

Rochester Finance Committee

By Michael J. DeCicco

Local Signs of First Nations People

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            Archaeologist Erin Flynn of Public Archaeology Laboratory based in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, was the guest speaker at the Marion Natural History Museum on February 9. Flynn took her audience on a journey of many hundreds of years, a journey of our collective past but more specifically the long, ongoing journey of the First Nations People. Flynn has over 20 years of field experience pulling back the sands of time to discover bits of past lives, lives of the first people.

            Flynn began with comments outlining precontact centuries (Paleoindian period 12,000 to 3,000 years ago) where hunting and fishing fed the growing, original populations. These people inhabited the south-coast region, finding it conducive for supporting life. But it wasn’t until postcontact, colonists took an interest in archaeology through the modern era that a fuller history emerged.

            From artifacts uncovered in the 1800s by homeowners and others digging around in recreational, archaeological pursuits, much was learned. There is evidence that these early people traded amongst other established tribes based on the types of materials used to make spearheads and arrows. Discovery of these tools, the manner in which they were created and the organic materials used, helps Flynn and others date residential sites.

            Precontact sites are where stone tools used in a variety of ways from grinding nuts and grains to cooking utensils have been found. Marion had many precontact sites at one time, but Flynn said those are all under water now as shorelines have shifted over the ages.

            Retreating glaciers turned up mastodon bones, animals, Flynn said, that were surely hunted for food. More likely, however, the early people sustained themselves on small game and fish.

            The Archaic Period, some 10,000 to 3,000 years ago, found First Nations People improving on earlier stone tools. During this time, they carved stone tips with bifurcated bases that made attachment to a handle or arrow more secure. Through carbon dating of charcoal and ash, scientists believe there were very large villages with many hundreds if not thousands of people living.

            Flynn stated that all along the way native people were learning, experimenting, designing better tools. By the late archaic period and Transitional Period, they were using weighted nets to catch fish, carving pipes and using stones and other materials for personal adornment.

            During the Woodland Period, 3,000 to 450 years ago, villages were reaching their zenith. Flynn said that there is evidence of agricultural activities and that shell pits from this period have been found. She noted that the Little Neck region and Great Hill or Stone Estate areas have produced evidence of First Nations people occupancy. Flynn said that Charles Neck, a point of land between Aucoot Cove and Sippican Harbor, was named after a person of ancestral First People lineage.

            Flynn was asked what one should do if they believe they have found a First People’s site. She said that the Massachusetts Historical Commission is charged with the responsibility of collecting and confirming historical data. To contact this agency, visit .sec.state.ma.us/mhc/. And don’t forget to visit the Marion Natural History Museum to view their collection of First Nations artifacts.

By Marilou Newell