Missing Child Found Safe in Marion

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On Sunday, March 11, 2011 at 11:29AM, the Marion Police Department received a call reporting a missing six year, autistic, male from a residence on Hammett’s Cove Drive.

Officers and firefighters began a preliminary search of the area.  A “Code Red” reverse notification call was sent out by the Plymouth County Sheriff’s Department, to all residents in the area.  Marine units from the Marion Harbormaster’s Office and the Marion Fire Department began a search along the nearby waterfront areas.  A K-9 unit from the Wareham Police Department also began a land search of the area.  The Southeastern Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council Search and Rescue Unit responded to begin and coordinate the search efforts. The Massachusetts State Police Air Wing began the air search of the area.

About one hour into the search, a resident of Joanne Drive spotted the child in her back yard and notified police.  The child was found to be wet and cold, but otherwise safe.  Marion EMS transported the child to Tobey Hospital for evaluation.

 

Marion Police Department Press Release

Spellbinding Spelling Bee

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Caduceus is a name that was used in Ancient Greek Mythology to describe a servant or staff member that worked for a higher power. Its symbol is a winged staff with two serpents, but for a group of three Mattapoisett women, caduceus symbolized victory the evening of Friday, March 9 in the auditorium of Old Rochester Regional High School. For the first time in the town’s history, the Mattapoisett PTA put together a community-wide Spelling Bee to raise money for the organization.

‘We were brainstorming different fundraising ideas and I moved here from Nantucket two years ago. I co-chaired the Spelling Bee on the island,” said Amy Wiggin, a Mattapoisett PTA member. “I brought the idea here, and we all loved it. We thought it would be a great community event.”

The competition utilized a team format, where 20 groups of three went head-to-head in five rounds spelling out difficult words on dry erase boards with the hopes of making it to the championship round.

“We were very nervous in the first round,” said Ellen Camacho, a member of the Spellbinders.

Team members included parents, doctors, philosophers, journalists, singers, coaches and many more. The competition was only open to people ages 14 and up, but there were no restrictions on costumes or team spirit, which was in full force.

The Spellbinders, a team comprised of Camacho, Cheryl Almeida and Laura Kearns, defeated the 19 other squads and walked away with a large trophy, t-shirts, and of course, bragging rights.

“It’s so great to be out here supporting the Central School,” said Almeida. “It was Ellen’s idea for us to join. She’s our team leader.”

Fun 107.1 DJ Michael Rock played emcee for the event. Rock has children that are enrolled in the school district. Five preliminary rounds featured four teams spelling words dictated by fourth grade teacher Kevin Tavares. One by one, the teams were eliminated until the last five were standing.

The Velvet Hammers, the Big Kahunas, the Ideal Team, Johnny’s Basement, and of course, the Spellbinders all earned spots in the championship round. Each team was successful in spelling odorous, scruple, rogue, pseudo and pugilist. However, when the time came to spell caduceus, only one team was victorious.

“The winning word was definitely the hardest one we had to spell,” said Almeida.

The victory didn’t come easy for the Spellbinders, who are all employed in the Old Rochester Business Office. They had been preparing hard for the weeks leading up to the Bee.

“We printed lists off the Internet and we studied those,” said Kearns. “But I think it was our natural backgrounds that helped us the most.”

The Velvet Hammers earned the runner-up honors by correctly spelling the word blitzkrieg. While not every team walked away with a prize, there was no doubting the success of the event, which took a few months and dozens of volunteers to plan.

“The event got a really good response,” said Wiggin. “Everyone wanted to be a part of it, everyone wanted to help out. We had committee members, teachers, staff, parents and students. We really wanted the community to come together.”

As for the Spellbinders, there are rumors circulating that they will be returning next year for a repeat victory.

“We were talking about that earlier,” laughed Kearns. “We’ll be back. We’ll be back.”

By Katy Fitzpatrick

Team Spellbinders wins the Bee.

ORRJHS Students of the Month

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Kevin T. Brogioli, Principal of Old Rochester Regional Junior High School, announces the following Students of the Month for February 2012;

•Green Team: Jessiba Rush, Rikard Bodin

•Blue Team: Jordan McArdle, Matt Cordeiro

•Orange Team: Colleen Beatriz, Evan Roznoy

•Red Team: Ashley Clapp, Jack Murphy

•Special Areas: Camryn Kidney, Brett Noone

ORCTV Free PSA Day

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Old Rochester Community Television (ORCTV) is offering another free public service announcement shoot day for local organizations or groups. We are opening up our studios on April 9 & 10 for you to come in and have a 1-5 minute PSA taped about your organization or group.

ORCTV will cover the technical aspects. You just need to speak about your mission, goals, needs and events. The PSAs will play on the local cable channels and can be seen by thousands of tri town residents. Use this opportunity to raise awareness for your mission and goals or to let residents know who you are.

This is a FREE service to local non profits, organizations, groups and town departments. To schedule call 508-748-1600 or email kim@orctv.org.

Rochester Historical Society

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The March 21 meeting of the Rochester Historical Society will feature a program by Betty Beaulieu entitled Rochester Taverns, Inns and Stagecoach Routes. The meeting is at the East Rochester Church/Museum at 355 County Rd., Rochester at 7 pm. All are welcome. Refreshments will be served.

Still More Issues to Reconcile on Bay Watch

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Bay Watch Realty was hoping that the Marion Zoning Board of Appeals would close the hearing on its modified affordable housing project on March 8, but while progress was made, several outstanding issues led the board to continue it until March 22.

Nevertheless, much ground was covered at the second hearing on Bay Watch’s latest 40B proposal – which would include two buildings with 30 affordable rentals and 36 freestanding homes (96 units total)– located off Route 105. Third-party consultant John Churchill reviewed a lengthy list of engineering concerns, but by the end of the hearing the developers and Churchill indicated that all issues could be resolved.

Some concerns raised at the first hearing on January 26 inched towards reconciliation. In particular, the developers had met with Building Commissioner Scott Shippey and the Fire/Police Departments regarding emergency access to the project – leading to some design changes.

Bay Watch engineer Ed Gless said they had widened pavement at several points in the site, including the main cul de sac, to facilitate the movement of fire apparatus. Also the developer agreed to show documentation that the proposed 75-foot wooden bridge into the project passes the muster of a structural engineer.

Shippey also signaled a need to identify an additional emergency exit route, but Bay Watch would require an easement or other agreement with abutter Sherman Briggs to make that happen.

The biggest wild card in the project is the fate of the main roadway into the project. At the hearing, Selectman Jon Henry spoke of his plans to ask the town to make the roadway public. A two-thirds vote would be required at town meeting for this to happen.

“It won’t fly in town meeting,” cautioned board member Betsy Dunn.

“You may be right, you may not be right. I see it as a necessity so that we can exert control over the road, including the maintenance, sewer, and utilities,” said Henry, noting that the town is in the process of taking over three sewer systems due to poor management.

“We need to embrace the project. I think it would be better for us get our hands around all the utilities, and do so at town meeting,” he said. “As far as a burden on the town, it’s not that big of a deal.”

The logistics of how children at the development would catch the bus would be solved if the roadway went public. Buses typically do not pick up children on private ways, thus the current plan could require them to catch the bus on Route 105. Board members had questioned if buses picking up children along Route 105 would back up traffic and create serious safety problems.

Ken Steen of Bay Watch said they could reach out to the school’s bus contractor to arrange for them to pick up the kids inside the development – but some members on the board felt this would not work.

“If they come inside, it would solve issue in a heartbeat,” Steen said. However, Henry said the town has an “obligation” to maintain the road.

Town Counsel Jon Whitten pointed out that the roadway could not be taken by the town until it is actually built – thus urged Bay Watch to work with the town’s third-party engineer to ensure they meet the town’s roadway specifications as much as possible.

“We tried to design all roads as closely as we could to the town standards given the restrictive nature of site and layout. We’ve done all we can do to get as close to standards as we can. That being said, we’ll take another took at that and see if there are a few things to tweak,” said Steen.

Another major outstanding issue was whether the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development would consider the project as viable affordable housing stock. Bay Watch had originally asked to keep all 36 single-family homes non-affordable, but in recent months the Selectmen expressed the desire for Bay Watch to have at least 25 percent (or eight or nine homes) marked as affordable – which is a typical requirement of the state. All rentals units at the project would be affordable.

Paul Haverty, counsel for Bay Watch, said that DHCD “has not yet given a definite answer” and that the agency requested 30 days to respond to this policy question.

“After looking at the big picture, and weighing in comments from the Select Board – what we’d like to do is offer two units of the 36 [single-family homes] for sale at 80 percent of the median income, to allow the town to count them towards its 10 percent inventory,” Steen proposed.

“If DHCD makes the decision that more units would be required, we would obviously provide those. We would be willing to accept the decision locally that no less than two units be provided,” he added. The sale price of a single-family home in the project would be $340,000; at the affordable rate the price would be reduced by $140,000 to cost $200,000, he said.

“We do have a certain comfort level. We don’t think they are going to require more than two,” said Steen.

Under the advice of Town Counsel, the board opted to wait until they hear from the DHCD on the matter. Bay Watch had wanted the ZBA to close the hearing that night, but Whitten insisted that the board give the public an opportunity to weigh in on this aspect of the project in an open hearing.

Whitten also urged the ZBA to ensure homeowners’ documents are fully detailed prior to approval. These associations would ensure maintenance and upkeep of the grounds, in particular the roads.

“That is a serious issue … All those documents need to be in place to make sure the bifurcated project has been protected,” he said.       Mr. Steen said that Bay Watch already has a plan to allocate costs, with the 36 homes responsible for 47 percent and the rental units responsible for 53 percent of maintenance costs of the common roadway, sewer pumping station and utilities.

In the end, Chairman Wedge indicated that progress is being made, and told Bay Watch developers that the board is working diligently to complete the process.

“Even though [the Bay Watch 40B proposal] has a history of 11 years, virtually everyone on our board is new, but we’re not going to be dragging any heels at this end,” he said.

By Laura Fedak Pedulli

Students Showcased at ORRHS Talent Show

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On the evening of Wednesday, February 7, the auditorium of Old Rochester Regional High School was filled with students, parents, teachers, and faculty. The community gathered to support some of their brave and talented friends who took the stage with song and dance to raise money for the Class of 2013 spring semi-formal in the form of a Talent Show.

The show was one of the bigger fundraisers organized by the Class of 2013, with most of the work being done directly by the class officers.  Vice President Michaela Riggi of Marion said that keeping everything organized was the most difficult aspect of the planning.  The officers took care of everything, from creating the program to collecting the entry fees paid by the acts.  But despite the work, she remained hopeful for her performing peers and humble about her role.            “I’m really excited. I feel like people will be really impressed with all the acts,” Riggi said.

Class secretary Erin Murphy from Rochester, was very thankful for all the volunteers and donors who made the night possible.

“It’s been fun to see all the people come out and to see the people who had talent.  We’re really glad for everyone, from the parents, our advisors, AMC Dartmouth who donated the popcorn, and [drama director] Paul Sardinha,” Murphy said.

Sardinha assisted the students in organizing equipment and transitioning from act to act.  “It went brilliantly. There was great audience attendance,” he said after the show as he congratulated the students backstage.

About six weeks ago, the class officers were discussing fundraising ideas, and they decided to organize a talent show.  Jeannette Raposa, advisor to the Class of 2013, said she had very little direct involvement with the planning process, but offered her guidance from the sidelines.

“This is their baby,” Raposa said.

Raposa was excited about the idea of a talent show because it offered the students and faculty the opportunity to see their friends and peers in a new context.

“I want the students to be seen in a different light.  We always see them in an academic setting. It’s a good way to showcase the many talented students we have here,” said Raposa.

Talent show judge and chemistry teacher Erin Sullivan was looking forward to seeing a new side of some students whom she did not expect to see in the program.  Fellow judge and English teacher Randy Allain, who graduated from ORRHS, did not see many of his own students on stage, but wanted to help out to support the school.

“I like seeing the kids have success planning an event like this. It’s a big responsibility,” Allain said.

After the permission slips had been signed, the entrance fees collected, auditions held, programs printed, concessions acquired, the show was ready.  Class photographer Sophia Santos of Marion served as one of the MCs for the evening.

“I’m nervous. I’ve never done this before,” Santos said.

She was not alone in her anxiety.  In the halls and backstage, performers readied themselves by stretching, warming up their voices, rehearsing moves, and practicing lyrics.  Even the more seasoned performers admitted to pre-show jitters.

Nick Mathiue, a junior from Rochester, quickly found his zone once he began singing “Dancing Shoes” by Gavin Degraw.

“It was nerve-wracking,” said Mathiue.  “It was just like the normal jitters, but after I got into it, it was like no one else was there.”

Evan Lacombe, who danced to the song “Bloodstream,” said he was nervous before performing, but he hid it well. He went on to win first place in the talent show.

The evening went off without a hitch. It featured everything from slow, passionate love ballads to fiery, intense choreography.  Each student took the stage with an individual passion, hoping to not only entertain their school, but to offer themselves as ambassadors of the diverse character and culture of the Tri-Town youth.  The audience was vivacious and their cheers and applause seemed to grow louder as each act took a bow, with the excitement often times preempting the end of the performances.

The Class of 2013 had a goal of raising $1,500 from the night, but no matter how much money they collected, the class gave the ORRHS community a way to appreciate the wealth of young talent that thrives here.

By Eric Tripoli

Rochester Police Arrest Man After Three-Month Drug Investigation

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A three month long investigation of illicit drug activities in the tri-town area led to the execution of a search warrant, resulting in the arrest of Michael Amado, age 21 of 8 Mayflower Lane, Rochester.

On 3/7/12 at approximately 7:30 pm, Mattapoisett and Rochester Police Departments executed a search warrant at 8 Mayflower Lane in Rochester. During the investigation undercover narcotic officers facilitated controlled purchases of illegal controlled substances from Amado on several occasions.

While executing the search warrant, narcotics officers seized a half pound of marijuana, Class C substance and other narcotics.  Officers also seized approx $5,000 in cash which was located hidden in a hollowed book. Also located at the residence was a large amount of growing equipment, packaging supplies and scales.

Rochester Police Chief Paul H. Magee stated that Mr. Amado was manufacturing and selling large amounts of Marijuana.

Michael FK Amado, 21, of 8 Mayflower Lane Rochester was arrested at the scene and has been charged with Possession of a class D substance (Marijuana) with intent to distribute, possession of a class D substance (marijuana), possession of a class C substance and the manufacturing of a class D substance.

Amado was released on bail and was scheduled to appear in Wareham District Court this morning. Court records indicate that Mr. Amada has been previously charged with Possession with intent to distribute a Class D substance.

This joint effort between the Rochester and Mattapoisett Police Departments allowed for expanded resources resulting in a thorough and successful investigation. Chief Magee said that the intelligence gathered from the collaborative effort of multiple agencies is an invaluable tool.

Article courtesy of Rochester PD Press Release 

Town To Help Cover Sippican Budget Shortfall

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The Marion School Committee meeting on Wednesday evening, March 7 offered a detailed explanation of how a child qualifies under the federal and state Special Education Enrollment program.

Director of Student Services, Teresa Hamm provided a flow chart, labeled ProjectIDEAL, which illustrated the various phases, from identifying a need, referral, evaluation, eligibility for assistance and determining services needed to assist in student progress. Special education includes children from ages three through 22.

Several attendees asked questions about the process, including Mike Canavan who asked about services at the junior high school. Hamm referred to various handouts and reassured attendees that careful analysis is done on a consistent basis to ensure needs are addressed.

In Marion, 74 out of 477 students, 74 (or about 15.5 percent) require special education services, with 3.1 percent requiring out-of-district educational services, according to Hamm’s handout. The topic was being specifically addressed due to the increase in services shown in the fiscal year 2013 budget.

In a discussion on the Fiscal Year 2013 budget, Superintendent, Doug White reported that he had met with the Marion Finance Committee, Town Administrator Paul Dawson and the Board of Selectmen and found that the town is willing to assist in working out a compromise on the proposed shortfall in the level services budget.

According to Committee Chair Brad Gordon, the details have not been worked out and the budget subcommittee has yet to review all the information, but was “relieved” that the shortfall issue has been greatly reduced.

“We need to see the influence on the budget and prepare and propose a revised FY 2013 budget, which will include a public hearing prior to our vote on it at the April 4 school committee meeting,” said Gordon.

According to White, the primary budget drivers include contractual obligations for current and retired teachers, an increase in the number of students attending Bristol Agricultural School and increased special education costs.

White said that two Marion students attend Bristol County Agricultural High School in Dighton, MA, majoring in animal husbandry, which is not offered at Upper Cape Vocational Technical School, where Marion students go for vocational education.

White said that he continues to target legislators on Beacon Hill to encourage that they support a foundation budget that will increase funding to handle the ever changing special education needs as well as address the increasing health insurance costs that are impacting school budgets.

Principal Lyn Rivet gave her report and said that the fourth grade will complete the MCAS long composition test on March 20. Other MCAS testing will take place on March 27 and March 29.  Ms. Rivet reported that attendance is steady at 97 percent.

The board voted and approved Christine Winters to represent the school committee on the newly formed Special Education Sub-Committee which is looking into changing the way special needs funding is distributed among the district and four elementary schools in the Tri Town.

The proposed idea is to keep special needs costs involving students ages three through sixth grade within the individual towns, and pushing the special needs costs for grades seven through age twenty-two to the district budget. The committee has not met yet, but plan to bring any proposals to be voted upon and implemented for the fiscal year 2014 budget process.

Food Director, Caitlyn Meagher discussed the food service budget and reported slow but steady progress in improving efficiency, lowering costs and increasing lunch participation at Sippican School. Meagher reported that 41 percent of Sippican School students purchased lunch in January of 2012 versus 40 percent in January of 2011.

By Joan Hartnett-Barry

Going Once, Going Twice, Sold!

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The third time’s the charm for the auction in the Preserve on the Bay Club in Mattapoisett, or is it?

One model home and 35 lots were originally scheduled to be auctioned on November 15, 2011 but at the very last minute the owner, Abbott Homes, filed bankruptcy which postponed the sale, first to January 18 and then again until March 7.

The property was originally bought by Abbott Homes from the Bay Club in 2007 for $2.45 million. Abbott then started development by subdividing the land into 36 lots, installing roads and utilities. A model home was built at 3 Fieldstone Drive, which was offered at the auction.

The 2,204 square foot model home, which has an assessed value of $535,200, was sold with a high bid of $395,000.

Originally the 35 remaining lots were slated to be sold individually at the November auction, but they were only offered as a package deal at the final auction. The highest bid from the floor for the package was $2.2 million, but the bank, which originally owned the property, opted to buy back the land for $2,304,000.

In the end, of the 20 bidders who were on hand, one bought a new house and the rest went home with only memories.

By Paul Lopes