Schools Host Mattapoisett Art Show

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Student artwork filled the halls of Center School on March 31 as families and educators gathered for the Mattapoisett Art Show.

            The event showcased artwork from students at Center School and Old Hammondtown School. The building was transformed into a gallery featuring drawings, paintings and sculptures created throughout the school year.

            Students selected the pieces displayed in the show from the portfolios they have been building since September, giving them the opportunity to curate their own work and share it with family, friends and classmates.

            “The Mattapoisett Art Show was an opportunity for our school community to gather and enjoy the projects our students have worked so hard on,” said Superintendent Michael S. Nelson. “Students from Center School and Old Hammondtown School were able to see what their peers have been creating in art class and may even have gained inspiration for their next project.”

            The show included several special features, including a science and art collection focused on birds and terrapins with science teacher Ben Squire. Other highlights included an abstract sculpture wall and a faux-tile wall inspired by traditional Portuguese azulejos, featuring local shellfish in shades of blue and white.

            Students in Project GROW, led by teacher Jane Kendall, also contributed artwork inspired by well-known artists from across art history, including Michelangelo, Georges Seurat, Pablo Picasso, Berthe Morisot, Georges Braque, Alexander Calder, Jackson Pollock and Marcel Duchamp.

            “It was so special to see our Mattapoisett school community come together once again for such an incredible art show,” said Old Hammondtown School Principal Stephanie Wells. “Our students put so much effort into their work, and having every student represented made it a truly inclusive and celebratory event.”

            “We would like to thank our art teacher, Greta Anderson, and science specialist Ben Squire for their outstanding collaboration in blending art and science to spark curiosity and encourage a wide range of student interests,” said Center School Principal Linda Ashley.

            Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning Dr. Sharlene Fedorowicz also recognized the work that went into the event.

            “Greta’s dedication to her students brings excitement and curiosity into the classroom,” Dr. Fedorowicz said. “We appreciate all that she does to inspire creativity and support our students.”

            School leaders also thanked the Mattapoisett PTA and parent volunteers who helped frame, label and display student artwork for the event.

Earth Day Clean Up

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The Rochester Women’s Club will hold an Earth Day Clean Up on April 25 from 9am to 1:00 pm. Pick up your garbage bags and gloves at the Rochester Women’s Club, 37 Marion Road, Rochester and name the street or place you are cleaning up trash.

The Wonderful World of Warblers

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Discover the wonderful world of warblers on Wednesday, April 22 at 6:00 pm at the Mattapoisett Free Public Library, 7 Barstow Street. Warblers are among the most beautiful birds but also challenging to identify. We’ll explore the fascinating world of these tiny migrants, from their amazing colors to their complex songs, behaviors, and habitats.

            Learn practical tips for identifying warblers in the field, including how to recognize key visual field marks, understand habitat preferences, and distinguish similar-looking species. We’ll also dive into the art of birding by ear, helping you decode their songs.

            Go to www.nbcbirdcom.com to see all upcoming bird walks. All events are free and open to the public. Please register for a bird walk by emailing jmbarrett426@gmail.com or calling 774-207-8515 Justin Barrett.

From Boston to New York

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            This week in Revolutionary War history, let’s check up on what was going on 250 years ago in New England and the northern Thirteen Colonies. Last week, Washington set off with many of his troops on the 200-mile journey to New York. Conversely, the British are regrouping in Halifax, taking stock of men and supplies, and planning their next move. A successful Continental Navy expedition also saw the acquisition* of scores of gunpowder from the Bahamas, with that fleet nearing Connecticut ports.

            On April 5, 1776, Washington has been on the road for one day when he reaches Providence, Rhode Island. he is met by Rhode Islander Major General Nathanael Greene, who makes a great effort to impress the general, throwing a large banquet in celebration of the liberation of Boston. The next day, Washington would write to Rhode Island Governor William Cooke, thanking him for the hospitality, saying he was “invited to an elegant entertainment at Hacker’s Hall, provided by the gentlemen of the town, where after dinner a number of patriotic toasts were drank”

            Also on April 5, Major General Charles Lee writes from Williamsburg, capital of Virgina. Lee is anxious as to the conflict and the lack of knowledge of British movements or targets. Much of the focus recently has been on the north, with Lee believe the south may be vulnerable. He says, “I am like a dog in a dancing school – I know not where to turn myself, where to fix myself – the circumstances of the country intersected by navigable rivers, the uncertainty of the enemy’s designs and motions who can fly in an instant to any spot they choose with their canvass wings throw me, or would throw Julius Caesar into this inevitable dilemma.” He concluded, desperate for updates, “I beg you will make somebody write to me from time to time.”

            Leaving Providence and heading along the Connecticut coast, Washington’s baggage train stretches for miles. He intends to visit various ports along the Long Island Sound to inspect their defensive readiness in case of Royal Navy assault.

            On April 7, Major General Philip Shuyler writes from Albany, pointing back toward Canada. he urges Washington to divert troops to the north, saying “our army in Canada will fall greatly short of what was intended.” Washington would only reply once he reaches New York, not himself sparing troops but instructing the Continental Congress to send what they can under command of Brigadier General John Sullivan, clearly showing the northern theater is not the general’s priority.

            The trip was rather uneventful through Connecticut, without many surviving sources. By April 11, Washington had made it to New Haven, just passing the halfway point of the trek. Though it may have been uneventful there, it was not in the south. In North Carolina, the Provincial Congress adopted the Halifax Resolves on April 12. This was the first resolution of its kind and is the first time a governing body in the Thirteen Colonies officially called for independence from the British Crown. It would read, “Resolved that the delegates for this colony in the Continental Congress be impowered to concur with the other delegates of the other colonies in declaring independency, and forming foreign alliances, resolving to this colony the sole, and exclusive right of forming a constitution and laws for this colony, and of appointing delegates from time to time under the direction of a general representation thereof to meet the delegates of the other colonies for such purposes as shall be hereafter pointed out.” With this monumental passage, the path towards independence has been paved.

This Week in Revolutionary War History

By Sam Bishop

Easing Wetlands Concerns

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            The Rochester Conservation Commission on Tuesday reviewed an important update on two Notices of Intent hearings for High Street Solar 1 and 2 at 0 High Street, which propose work within the 100-foot wetlands buffer zone for a ground-mounted solar array. One NOI is for Lots 4 and 5. A separate NOI was filed for Lots 6, 16, 17, 35, 21, 20, 22, and 35.

            Project representative Eric Weinstein explained there are no changes to Site A since the hearing began in March. However, there have been sizable changes to Site B. A proposed access road has been removed from the plan after town officials told the planners that including this access was not necessary. This change, he said, eliminates the wetlands buffer complications and abutters’ concerns.

            Weinstein said in conclusion that more changes will be made to the plan after he receives the town’s peer-engineering review. He requested the hearings be continued to the commission’s May 5 meeting. The commission quickly agreed.

            Before this result, Rochester Environmental Planner/Conservation Agent Merilee Kelly asked how close the work, as currently proposed, comes to the wetlands. Weinstein said the work will affect the wetlands buffer zone but will not have a direct impact on the wetlands.

            Rochester resident Kelly Barratt told the commission she is sponsoring a Citizens Petition article for the May 18 Annual Town Meeting that adds to the town’s existing solar bylaw and in effect works against more solar farms being approved in town. “We’re just not happy to see so many solar sites come to town,” she said. “We support wildlife, we support our town character.” Specifically, she said after hearing, the petition seeks to prevent large clear-cutting of trees to create a solar installation.

            In other action, the commission instructed Chair Christopher Gerrior to draft a letter telling town officials that the board needs a full-time conservation agent. This move responds to recent word that Kelly is being reduced to part-time at 24 hours per week as a cost-saving move for FY27. Kelly’s work is too vital to commission operations for her hours to be reduced, board members agreed.

            The commission approved a Certificate of Compliance for substantial completion of a house construction project near wetlands at 32 Gerrish Road.
            The next Rochester Conservation Commission meeting will be held on April 21 at 7:00 pm in Town Hall, 1 Constitution Way.

Rochester Conservation Commission

By Michael J. DeCicco

Upcoming Events at the Elizabeth Taber Library

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On Tuesday, April 14 at 1:00 pm, The Banned Book Club will discuss The Yellow Wallpaper by Charlotte Perkins Gilman. Pick up copies of this short story at the circulation desk to participate in this discussion.

            On Wednesday, April 22 at 11:00 am the Readers’ Advisory Group will meet for the first time to discuss new reads and popular titles. A great group for readers of all kinds. If you like getting reading recommendations from fellow book lovers, this is a great place to start.

            Friday Fiber Arts Club continues to meet weekly on Fridays at 10:30 am. Open to all.

            Starting to plan ahead for April Vacation? Keep the Library in mind. We’re hosting Little Sparks Theater on Wednesday, April 22 at 11:00 am for Big Kid Creative Drama – an engaging and highly interactive drama program for kids ages 6-8/grades 1-3. On Friday, April 24, we’re running our very own escape room. Sign up for a timeslot to Escape the Library. Both programs require registration and more information can be found at elizabethtaberlibrary.org/events

            Tickets are available for the Friends of the Elizabeth Taber Library’s Afternoon Tea Fundraiser. Performer Sheryl Faye returns in “Liberty and Legacy” as Abigail Adams on April 12 at the Marion Music Hall. Doors will open at 2:30 pm, Tea service starts at 3:00 pm. Finger sandwiches, scones, and desserts will be served. Tickets can be purchased for $45 at the library, or online at elizabethtaberlibrary.org/friends-of-the-elizabeth-taber-library.

            For more information on the Elizabeth Taber Library visit us at www.ElizabethTaberLibrary.org or email the library at ETLibrary@sailsinc.org. 8 Spring Street Marion, MA 02738. 508-748-1252.

From the Files of the Rochester Historical Society

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Reading Sam Bishop’s articles detailing Gen. Washington’s correspondence, sent me looking through the book ” Mattapoisett and old Rochester”, a couple of copies of which are at the Rochester Historical Museum and also at the Plumb Library.

            As mentioned previously, Rochester, more than any other Plymouth County town, was quick to fall in with the requests of the Boston Committee in their pursuit for independence and to join in on actions against the British. Town Meeting was aware early on of the pending need for a trained militia with officers to command military companies. The picture with the article shows the muster field where such training took place.

            As early as 1774, they moved to purchase firearms, powder, flints and lead.

In 1775, Town Meeting voted to “hire one hundred pounds to buy war stores”, as well as two boats to be used by Capt. Nathaniel Hammond’s Company. It was also voted “to send to the West Indies by Capt. Moses Barlow for powder, firearms, molasses and other war supplies”.

            All of the expenditures and planning were done by a town that voted in May of 1776, “that when the Honourable Congress shall think best to Declare themselves Independent of the Kingdom of Great Britain that we will Defend them with our Lives and Fortunes”.

By Connie Eshbach

Mattapoisett Yacht Club News

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There’s a lot going on at MYC starting with our Annual Spring Fling on April 18, at our newly opened clubhouse. Members and their guests are invited. Food will be catered by “On The Go”. A visit to our Social Activities page on our newly designed website has all the details on this event plus many others.

            MYC Event Highlights:

            April 17 and 18, Goodspeed work weekend at the MBY Yard Lot. 8:00 am to 12:00 pm.

      April 18, Spring Fling Party. Food and drinks from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm at the Clubhouse.

            May 1, Membership package distribution: including membership cards, Fob access cards, and locker assignments. 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm at the Clubhouse.

            May 2, Advisory Board Meeting at the clubhouse. 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at the Clubhouse.

      May 30, Race Committee and Skippers meeting at the Clubhouse.

      June 2. First Tuesday Night Race for Ensigns and ORR 420s.

      June 3, First Wednesday Night PHRF races.

      June 5, Red Sox vs Yankees game on the big screen – at the Clubhouse – Host Bill Foley.  Food and drinks.

            Beginning Friday, June 5, the MYC clubhouse will host a uniquely themed event every Friday night, offering members an opportunity to enjoy something different each week. If you have an event you would like to host, please sign up through the Friday Night Activity on the Social Activities page on our website.

            June 6, Spring Round The Bay Race

            This is the first race in the Buzzards Bay PHRF Series Trophy. This approximately 26 mile round the bay race is a staggered start, There is a spinnaker division and a non-spinnaker division. Also, this year we will have a double-handed class.

            MYC new Wednesday Night PHRF Division, Want to start Racing but not quite sure? This division is for all sailors who are interested in racing BUT are not yet experienced enough for a competitive racing style. Racers in this division will start separately after the other divisions and have a simplified racecourse. Handicaps will be accessed by the RC. Racers are encouraged to sign up by contacting us at racechair@mattapoisettyc.org.

ORRHS Wins at Congressional Art Competition

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Old Rochester Regional High School is proud to announce that several of its talented art students have been recognized in the prestigious 9th Congressional District Art Competition.

            The following students were selected by the judges to receive awards:

            Mixed Media: 2nd Place: Lauren Serpa, 3rd Place: Jocelyn Yurof

            Drawing: 1st Place: Ian Hartwig

            The public is warmly invited to view their award-winning work, along with artwork from other high school students across the region, at the exhibition’s opening reception. The event will take place on Friday, April 10, from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm at the Plymouth Center for the Arts.

            Awards will be presented during the reception.

            Superintendent Michael S. Nelson and Principal Michael Devoll welcome the community to join them in congratulating these students and in celebrating the arts in the Old Rochester Regional community.

            “We are all very proud of the effort and talents of Ian, Jocelyn and Lauren,” said Principal Devoll. “Congratulations to them and all of our artists. Our art program provides wonderful opportunities to our students to showcase their talent.”

            “Congratulations to our truly talented artists,” said Superintendent Nelson. “We always look forward to the impressive works of art produced by our students for the prestigious Congressional District Art Competition. It’s always impressive to see the high-caliber combination of skill and creativity that comes out of our arts program and is showcased at these events.”

Rochester Republican Town Committee

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The Rochester Republican Town Committee will hold its next meeting on Monday, April 13, at 6:30 pm, at the Ponderosa Sportsman’s Club in Acushnet.

            Anne Manning Martin will be the guest speaker. She is a candidate for Lieutenant Governor and has joined the Mike Kennealy ticket. She has thirty-four years of law enforcement experience. She is a fiscal conservative and has a long history of public service. The public is invited to attend.