Marion Democratic Town Committee Sponsors ORR Essay Contest

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ORR juniors and seniors have been invited to enter an essay contest addressing “What Is Democracy?” for three cash prizes. The contest, which is sponsored by the Marion Democratic Town Committee (MDTC), is under the guidance of ORR social studies teacher Dr. Erich Carroll. The students are required to cite one primary source and two secondary sources and include a bibliography. Essays must be submitted by April 17. Winners will be announced by the end of April.

            The essay contest will be one agenda item at the monthly meeting of the MDTC at 5:30 pm, April 16, in the Community Room of the Marion Police Station. Among other discussion items will be the group’s plans for their annual Damien’s Food Pantry drive. All Marion Democrats are welcome to attend.

OCRVTHS Students Advance to NASA HUNCH Culinary Finals

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Students in the culinary program at Old Colony Regional Vocational Technical High School, calling themselves the “Cosmic Chefs,” have advanced to the finals of the NASA HUNCH Culinary Challenge and are preparing to travel to Johnson Space Center in Houston to present a dish designed for astronauts aboard the International Space Station.

            The team is one of 10 schools nationwide selected to compete in the final round of the competition, which challenges students to design nutritious, shelf-stable meals suitable for space travel. The program is part of the NASA HUNCH Program, an educational initiative that allows students to contribute real-world solutions for the nation’s space program.

            The team – seniors Ryan Eby, Leah Hollenbeck, Justin Ielo and Anthony Rampino, and juniors Elena Tan and Scarlet Savaria – developed Chicken Vindaloo Tacos, a unique, space-ready take on a taco inspired by Indian flavors.

            The chicken is marinated in apple cider vinegar, garlic, ginger, paprika, cayenne, turmeric and black pepper, with toasted spices including cumin, coriander and cinnamon. To complement the flavors, the dish includes onions, bell pepper, low-sodium chicken broth, lemon juice and bay leaves, garnished with fresh cilantro, shredded red cabbage and a Greek yogurt crema.

            The recipe is designed with space physiology in mind. In microgravity, the body experiences slower digestion, fluid shifts and changes in blood vessels. High fiber, limited sodium and reduced saturated fats help maintain digestion, reduce fluid retention and support cardiovascular health for astronauts.

            To qualify for the national competition, students first completed a research paper examining the effects of space travel on the human body and how food must be processed and prepared for space environments. They then developed two recipes and conducted a full nutritional analysis before submitting their work to the Johnson Space Center Food Lab. After a preliminary evaluation round, their project was selected among the highest-scoring entries in the country.

            “This project challenges students to think far beyond a traditional kitchen,” said culinary instructor Ashley Ulett, who oversees the school’s NASA HUNCH culinary team. “They are researching the science behind space travel, developing recipes that meet strict nutritional standards and learning how food innovation plays a role in supporting astronauts during long missions.”

            Elena, Leah, Ryan and Scarlett will travel to Houston in late April to present and prepare their dish for judges at Johnson Space Center. The experience allows them to work alongside industry professionals while showcasing their culinary skills on a national stage.

            “Opportunities like this show the power of vocational education,” said Superintendent Aaron Polansky. “Our students are combining culinary training with science and research while tackling a challenge connected to the work of NASA. Their success speaks to the strength of our culinary program and the dedication of the teachers who prepare students for careers in the industry.”

Daniel R. Schwartz

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Daniel R. Schwartz, age 80, of Dartmouth, passed away on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at Sippican Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center in Marion. He was the loving husband of Kate Rose.

            Born in New Bedford, he was the son of the late Herman and Mary (Blum) Schwartz. He attended Betsey B. Winslow Elementary School, New Bedford High School, and graduated from Dartmouth High School. He went on to study at Chamberlain College in Boston, the University of Baltimore, and the New England School of Acupuncture.

            Dan was a dedicated acupuncturist for 38 years, maintaining his own practice, The Acupuncture Clinic of Daniel Schwartz. In addition to acupuncture, he was also an herbalist and practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), bringing a holistic and deeply thoughtful approach to healing. He cared deeply for his patients and their well-being, forming lasting connections with many of those he treated. He remained connected to the field throughout his life and later served on the Board of Trustees of the New England School of Acupuncture.

            In addition to his work in healing, Dan was a lifelong musician and accomplished percussionist, performing for over 50 years with numerous bands and ensembles throughout the South Coast and beyond. Known affectionately as “Dr. D,” a nickname earned not from his holistic work but from his role as “the rhythm doctor”, he had an amazing ability to shape and elevate the sound of any group he played with. He performed with many groups over the years, including Bobby Green & Coleus, The Whaling City Sound Super Band, the Stan Strickland Band, the Joel Hiller Band, The Nelson Brothers, Shaman John Meyerson, The Dori Rubicco & Butch McCarthy Band, Armistead Christian & Peaceful Flight, Dori Rubicco & Chris Richards, the Neil McCarthy Band, The Unitarian Church Bobby Greene Ensemble, The Corner Temple Choir with John Harrison, The Tifereth Israel Band, Olamot, where he performed alongside his sister, Jessica Schwartz, and many others. He also toured Cape Verde with the New England Cape Verde All-Star Review, and more recently performed with Last Day on Earth, the Southcoast Jazz Orchestra, and the Southcoast Brass Band.

            Dan was known not only for his extraordinary musical ability, but for the spirit he brought to every performance. A deeply intuitive and versatile percussionist, he had a rare gift for listening and responding in the moment, blending seamlessly across styles and lifting the musicians around him. He approached music with humility and joy, always crediting others and remaining a lifelong student of his craft. Those who played with him knew his presence made the music more alive and connected.

            In addition to his wife, he is survived by his sister, Jessica Schwartz, daughter Rebecca McDonald and her husband, Jeremy; grandchildren Carson and Marlee McDonald and Damien Montague; his stepson, Eoghan McDonagh; his stepdaughter, Nicole Montague; his son-in-law James Montague III, and his former spouse, Joyce Schwartz.

            A funeral service will be held on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at 9:00 am at Tifereth Israel Congregation, 145 Brownell Avenue, New Bedford, with interment to follow at Plainville Cemetery, 1400 Old Plainville Road, New Bedford. For those unable to attend in person, the service will be available via Zoom.

            Shiva will be observed on Monday, April 13, and Tuesday, April 14. Family will attend Mincha services at 5:45 pm at Tifereth Israel Congregation, with shiva continuing immediately following services until 7:30 p.m. in the small social hall.

            Arrangements are in the care of Sugarman-Sinai Memorial Chapel, Providence. For condolences, please visit www.sugarmansinai.com.

Police Pay Respects to Dale Jones

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Earlier this year, on January 17, William Dale Jones passed at the age of 85. At the time, he had been a member of the Marion Planning Board and had committed numerous years to it, and the town as a whole as a dedicated public servant.

            A lifelong resident of the South Coast and of Marion later in life, Jones was also a founding member of the town’s volunteer EMS Association. He also served as an EMT and volunteer firefighter. For this work and much more, last week, the Marion Police Department released a public dedication to Jones, emphasizing the work he did and thanking his unwavering service.

            “Earlier this year a great friend of our department passed away. William ‘Dale’ Jones was an active member of the Marion community, serving our town in many capacities throughout his life. His dedication to our town and his support of our first responders will be greatly missed.”

            Dale studied Marine and Electrical Engineering at Mass Maritime, then worked as a Merchant Marine and at the General Dynamics Quincy Shipyard building nuclear submarines. As an engineer, Dale built a successful career and was president of the South Coast Chapter of the Massachusetts Society of Professional Engineers.

            Dale was committed to serving the Town of Marion. Along with his service as a founding member of the volunteer EMS Association and his 40 years as an EMT and volunteer firefighter, Jones served the town as Emergency Management director, CPR instructor, member of the Water Board, chairman of the Police Station Building Committee and member of the Sippican School Building Committee.

            In his later years, residents would find Dale serving as a crossing guard in the crosswalk at Sippican School, greeting students and families with enthusiasm and huge smiles, as well as serving on the Community Emergency Response Team. Dale made frequent visits to the police station, either to catch up with chief or to simply show his support for our officers.

            Dale is survived by his wife Shirley, two sons Bill and Richard, cousins, a nephew and grandchildren, as well as countless friends and residents that will miss his jokes, smiles and friendship.

            RIP, “Dale.”

            Jones’ funeral service will be held at Evergreen Cemetery at 10:00 am on April 11. There is also a reception at the Marion Music Hall following the service.

By Sam Bishop

Select Board, MRC Find Common Ground

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            The Marion Select Board met on Tuesday in the Police Department for their first meeting following their approval last week of the Town Meeting Warrant. On their agenda were various position appointments, new town policy drafts, and a discussion of the proposed and in-progress Marine Resources Commission Charter.

            First, the board approved the minutes from their March 24 meeting without discussion.

            Next, Cathy Stone, president of Sippican Lands Trust, and John Chester, real estate project manager of Buzzards Bay Coalition, spoke regarding regulations and a land swap from SLT to BBC. The properties in discussion are off Point Road, namely Osprey Marsh, Howland Marsh, and Shaw’s Island. Select Board Chair Randy Parker clarified this land is known for its boardwalk.

            Stone stated a big importance was the groups wanted “double protection” to comprise the properties. The board members approved unanimously and signed off on the transfer.

            Next were appointments. Patricia McKim was appointed as a full member of the Marine Resources Commission with a unanimous vote. She was already approved before she could speak. Davis Sanford was appointed as alternative member to the MRC. He said he has been coming to Marion since he was six years old and has lived in town since 2007. He told the board he has attended meetings for around a year. The board approved this appointment unanimously. Next, Tucker Burr was also appointed as an alternative member of the MRC with a unanimous vote.

            Retired planner Ann Morgan was appointed as alternate member to the Zoning Board of Appeals with a unanimous vote. Dina Nichols stated she’s been on “many boards and commissions over 30 years.” She mentioned she was also a realtor. She was also appointed as an alternate member to the ZBA with a unanimous vote.

            Following the rapid appointment approvals, the Select Board moved on to the approval of the draft of the Revocation, Suspension, and Nonrenewal policy. The draft policy focuses on Board of Health licenses. Town Administrator Geoffrey Gorman said the Board of Health had already looked at it after Select Board Vice Chair John Hoagland requested. The Revocation Policy was approved by the Select Board.

            Next, the Pavement Moratorium Policy had its first read. Chair Parker requested the Planning Board see it. “They ought to know about it,” he said. Member Norm Hils asked if the Department of Public Works had seen it, to which Gorman said they had extensively looked it over. The board tabled the discussion and promised to vote on it at their next meeting following more discussion and inter-department dialogue.

            Next, no representative was present from the Buzzards Bay Musicfest Board of Directors. There was confusion on their application, but Executive Assistant to the Town Administrator Donna Hemphill said the group wanted to allow attendees to be able to park at the Community Center to be shuttled to the festival. Parker requested more information, although the request was granted so long as the Community Center is notified.

            Marine Resources Commission members were present to discuss the MRC Charter. The two town bodies went through the document chronologically, with Parker saying all needed language had been added. In the importance of the charter and putting on paper what responsibilities the MRC has, Hills said, “there’s multiple things that say who does what. Hopefully this will codify it.”

            They discussed membership, clarifying there are seven voting members, two alternates, and two ex-officio who also don’t vote.

            On to duties, MRC member Scott Cowell said they were to keep the Select Board and other town bodies informed on relevant issues, saying they would be “keeping people apprised of what’s going on.” Referring to the harbor and responsibilities pertaining to it, Cowell said, “this town has been spoiled by the last four harbormasters,” mentioning work often done by them that is beyond their cited responsibilities.

            On to the town’s future plans, the Select Board and MRC agreed work on the seawall has to be on the master 10-year plan. They also discussed looking into Bird Island maintenance, agreeing it’s imperative. Dredging and infrastructure are also important to Cowell and the MRC, with Hoagland saying those projects will have to go to capital planning.

            Overall, work on the MRC Charter is ongoing, though they and the Select Board found much common ground at the meeting.

            The next meeting of the Marion Select Board is scheduled for Tuesday, April 21 at 6:00 pm in the Marion Police Department’s conference room.

Marion Select Board

By Sam Bishop

Arms, Bats Power Bulldogs

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Old Rochester’s baseball team played at Wareham (0-1) on April 3 and won 8-3. Starting pitcher Tanner Wright-Texeira had an impressive performance, going for six innings, striking out eight, and only allowing one earned run. Junior Nolin Vieira had a big day at the plate, going 3-for-4, all doubles, with two runs batted in. The Bulldogs are off to an impressive start on the season and took a 3-0 record into Wednesday’s game at Apponequet.

Boys Lacrosse

            The Bulldogs traveled to Fairhaven on April 1 and won 6-3, bringing their record to 1-1 on the young season. Seniors Tucker Roy and Chase Almeida were named the players of the game. Their next game is scheduled at Greater New Bedford Voc-Tech on Friday, April 10.

Sports Roundup

By Aiden Comorosky

Children’s Department at the Mattapoisett Free Public Library

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Voting Week for the Quahog Reading Program runs through Sunday, April 12. Readers who finished all 5 books in at least one group are invited to vote for their favorite book. Readers will receive one ballot for each group they completed. After voting, readers are encouraged to come back to the Children’s Desk and sign up for the Quahog Readers’ Pizza Party, where the winning books and winners of the prizes will be announced.

            Family Storytimes are happening every Thursday at 10:30 am, except for April 23, until May 14, where they will take a short recess.

            Baby Storytimes are happening every Friday at 10:30 am, except for April 24, until May 15, where they will take a short recess.

            Children who are crawlers through Pre-K are welcome to our Drop-In Play Group every Tuesday morning from 10:30 am to 12:00 pm. Children ages 5-10 are invited to Drop-In Play Club every Thursday from 3-4pm. Adult caretakers must stay with their young ones for the duration of the program – it’s a Drop-in Play Group, not Drop off.

            More information about all of our upcoming 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.

ArtWeek SouthCoast at the MAC

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ArtWeek SouthCoast returns to the Marion Art Center (the MAC) with six events during the regional festival scheduled May 8 to May 17. ArtWeek SouthCoast celebrates the arts by connecting innovative, creative, and affordable art and cultural events in communities across the region, from Fall River to Wareham. The MAC’s ArtWeek SouthCoast events are hands-on, interactive, and offered at low cost or for free. View all ArtWeek at the MAC events at marionartcenter.org/artweek.

            MTPI Presents “The Attorney-in-Fact” – MAC Theater Playwrights Incubator presents The Attorney-in-Fact, an original play by Philip Ardell, directed by Tony Ferreira, with support from WatermelonAlligator Theater Company. The MTPI program mentors emerging playwrights through the completion of their play. Mentors for the 2025-2026 MTPI season are Tony Ferreira and Harvey Ussach.

            Familiar themes emerge in this story about 82-year-old Milt and his son Tommy: relationships between aging parents and their adult children, navigating medical systems, and discovering new, unexpected ways to rely on others.

            Following each performance, there will be a talkback with the playwright, creative team, and cast. Performances are on Friday, May 8, 7:30 pm, Saturday, May 9, 7:30 pm and Sunday, May 10, 2:00 pm in the MAC Theater at 80 Pleasant Street, Marion. Tickets are $10 for members and $15 for nonmembers. Tickets can be purchased at marionartcenter.org/ArtWeek.

            Spin Into Spring. Community Bike Tune-up – Is your bike ready for the Tour de Crème or even just an enjoyable summer of getting back and forth to Silvershell Beach? If it needs a little attention after the long winter, bring it to the MAC.

            On Saturday, May 9 between 9:30 am to 12:00 pm, we’ll have experts on hand who can look your bike over and give it some TLC in the form of a brake adjustment, chain lubrication or – in the event of more serious issues – provide advice about repairs that should be addressed before hitting the road. Free, but advance booking is suggested as the event fills up fast. Held at the MAC – 80 Pleasant Street, Marion. Book at marionartcenter.org/ArtWeek.

            Improv Workshop with Garrett Olson & Jess Wilson – Discover the art of improvisation in this fun, beginner-friendly course, exploring games and exercises in awareness, voice, movement, and the senses. Come ready to move, play, and ask questions—because in improv, anything can happen.

            The class is held on Wednesday, May 13, 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm in the MAC’s Anne Braitmayer Webb Theater at 80 Pleasant Street, Marion. Register at marionartcenter.org/ArtWeek. The cost for MAC Members is $25 and for nonmembers, $30.

            Unplugged in the MAC Gallery with Matt Richard & Paul Del Nero – Experience an intimate concert in our upstairs gallery at 80 Pleasant Street, Marion. Featured artists include Paul Del Nero on bass and Matt Richard on piano. Find a spot at a cabaret table to listen to a mix of jazz standards and original compositions by both artists. Guests will enjoy a refreshing setting at this “unplugged” performance featuring mainly acoustic sound. There are two one-hour shows – one at 7:00 pm and one at 8:30 pm on Friday, May 15. Tickets are $15 for MAC members and $20 for nonmembers. Seats are limited and sell out quickly. They can be purchased at marionartcenter.org/ArtWeek.

            Poetry Reading and Tea with Ann E. Wallace and Elizabeth Sylvia: Join poets Ann E. Wallace and Elizabeth Sylvia for a reading of their new collections, where home, garden, and the natural world illuminate resilience, grief, and renewal. From intimate domestic spaces to verdant gardens across time and place, their work offers insight, tenderness, and the quiet power of nature. Coffee, tea, and sweets will be provided.

            The event is May 16, at 11:00 am to 12:30 pm. It is free, but registration is recommended. Read more about the poets and register at marionartcenter.org/ArtWeek. It will be held in the MAC’s Anne Braitmayer Webb Theater at 80 Pleasant Street, Marion.

            Paint & Sip Workshop with artist Barbara Healy – This popular annual event returns on Saturday, May 16 between 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm on the MAC lawn at 80 Pleasant Street, Marion. Learn the basics of painting with acrylics and taste some great wines for spring in this fun workshop with artist Barbara Healy. The cost is $40 for MAC members and $45 for nonmembers, and one must be at least 21 to register. All materials will be provided. Register online at marionartcenter.org/artweek.

Cushing Cemetery Meeting

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Cushing Cemetery is holding a meeting on April 18 at 10:00 am downstairs in the conference room at the town library. All Board members and Trustees are asked to attend. This meeting is opened to the public. Hope to see you there.

ORRJH Students Perform in SMMEA Junior District Festival

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After two days spent learning and rehearsing new music, 20 Old Rochester Regional Junior High School (ORRJHS) students took to the stage at the Southeastern Massachusetts Music Educators Association (SEMMEA) Junior District Festival.

            Old Rochester musicians joined students from across southeastern Massachusetts for festival auditions in December, and qualifying performers gathered again on March 6 and 7 for two days of intensive music rehearsals in chorus, band or orchestra before performing in the concert.

            “We are incredibly proud of these 20 talented musicians for their remarkable achievement in being accepted to the SEMMEA Junior District Festival,” said ORRJHS Music Teacher Richard Laprise. “This accomplishment speaks to their dedication and all of their hard work. Having such a large group represent our school this year demonstrates the strength of our music program and the commitment of our students to excellence.”

            “The SEMMEA Junior District Festival pushes students to learn new music quickly and perform with peers they’ve just met,” said Principal Silas Coellner. “It has been inspiring to watch our students work together, rise to the challenge and perform so beautifully. We are proud they represented Old Rochester so well on stage.”

            The following seventh grade students performed at the Junior District Festival: Aja Boucher, Olivia Carrillo, Andrew Cody, Penelope Conley, Cadence Cordeiro, Emily Gherard, Tobias Revell, Aubrey Rivera, Emma Souza, Aaron Tanga, and Charles Whinnem.

            The following eighth grade students performed at the festival: Zachary Bellefeuille, Anthony Biscaia, Logan Bradshaw, John Eilertsen, Hannah Gomes, Griffin Hagan, Bridget Lee, Sophia Meleo, and Sophia Wilson. “We are thrilled that such a large number of Old Rochester students performed in the SEMMEA Junior District Festival,” said Superintendent Michael S. Nelson. “Their commitment to this festival, from the time they first auditioned in December to the moment they stepped off the stage in March, has been very impressive.”

            Massachusetts Music Educators Association (MMEA) has approximately 1,500 members and provides leadership in professional development, advocacy, student assessment, opportunities for students, and providing a comprehensive, quality music for all students.

            MMEA is divided into five districts with a chair and an executive board for each district. Each of the districts organizes honor ensemble festivals and general music events. A percentage of students who participate in district festivals are eligible to audition for All-State honors ensembles.