South Coast Bikeway Advances, One Section at a Time

About 110 cyclists registered for the South Coast Bikeway Alliance’s seventh annual Pedal for the Path on Sunday, August 30. They set out from Running Brook Vineyard for 21- and 35-mile rides through Dartmouth.

            The annual ride raises money and awareness for a much longer journey: completing a multi-use South Coast Bikeway stretching from Swansea to Wareham.

            Sections of the bikeway have already been completed in Fall River, New Bedford, and Fairhaven. In the Tri-Town area, the Mattapoisett and Marion connections remain in progress. (Rochester is not part of the South Coast Bikeway.)

            The Alliance describes its larger vision as creating “connected communities” through bicycle and walking paths, with routes ranging from wooded trails to quiet neighborhood roads that can connect residents with schools, libraries, stores and other destinations.

            Mattapoisett already provides one of the Alliance’s examples of that vision.

            The Shining Tides section of the Mattapoisett Rail Trail, completed in 2023, is the most recent segment of the South

Coast Bikeway. The path, which links directly with the 4.5-mile paved Phoenix Bike Trail in Fairhaven, features elevated wooden boardwalks that wind along Mattapoisett Harbor, and offers views of the Mattapoisett River and tidal salt marshes.

            The Alliance describes the path as a meeting place for people of all ages. It points to Mattapoisett, Fairhaven, New Bedford and Fall River as communities where completed paths have created demand for additional connections.

            The Mattapoisett portion, however, is not yet complete. Phase 2A would fill a gap between Depot Street and North Street, while Phase 2B would continue the route along Industrial Drive. At the end of Industrial Drive, a 0.64-mile segment called the “Connector,” already complete, is intended to connect Mattapoisett to Marion’s future rail trail and includes a parking area. Completing those sections is part of the effort to create a continuous connection from Fairhaven through Mattapoisett and eventually into Marion.

            To the east, Marion plans to begin construction of its 3.8-mile route sometime in 2027. From the Mattapoisett town line, the route follows portions of the former Old Colony Railroad corridor toward Point Road through conservation lands, cranberry bogs and remnants of the historic Marconi radio towers to Spring Street, through the town’s park and on to Wareham.

            The result is a bikeway being assembled not as one construction project, but town by town and section by section.

            This year’s Pedal for the Path raised funds to advance work identified in the Closing the Gap feasibility study, which is helping Dartmouth, New Bedford and Westport move toward completing their portions of the regional route.

            But Sunday morning also offered a glimpse of the challenges involved in connecting those individual sections.

            As cyclists gathered at Running Brook Vineyard, opposition to one proposed section of the bikeway was difficult to miss. Signs reading “No Off-Road Path Here” had been placed in front of homes along Old Fall River Road, where residents are opposing plans for an off-road path.

            Several residents gathered near the vineyard carrying signs urging planners to “seek alternate route.” They said they support the regional bikeway but object to an off-road path along Old Fall River Road, citing concerns about private property, wells, historic homes and stone walls, the rural landscape and traffic safety.

            “We’re not against the bike path,” one resident said. “We are against the off-road [path], the taking of private property.”

            South Coast Bikeway Alliance President Sandy Medeiros said some of the information residents are sharing about the proposal is incorrect. The preliminary design and engineering project is underway and will include opportunities for public engagement.

            The disagreement illustrates one of the challenges facing a bikeway that crosses multiple municipal boundaries and depends on individual communities to plan, fund and build their portions.

            The Alliance acknowledges that completing the regional network requires more than enthusiasm for bicycling. Transportation funding and local support are necessary for communities to move projects from planning through design and construction.

            Randy Salzman, a former transportation writer and journalism professor who participated in Sunday’s event, said communities benefit when residents have transportation alternatives to automobiles.

            “When you build this, you actually get less congestion because there are other alternatives,” Salzman said.

            For now, more than 100 cyclists pedaled away from Running Brook Vineyard Sunday morning along the South Coast roads that advocates hope will eventually become part of a connected route from Swansea to Wareham.

By Jeanne Hopkins

Home Projects Face Scrutiny Over Wetlands

Marion’s Conservation Commission met on Wednesday, August 26, in the police station’s conference room, where they had a full agenda to tackle.

            Commission membership was limited at the meeting, with only Chair John Walsh and Commissioner Matt Shultz present, along with two Associate Commissioners, Natalie Burgo and Tom Drechsler. Drechsler, being the more senior associate member, was asked to fill in and was granted voting authority by Walsh.

            The meeting began with a Continued Public Meeting for Christina Galarza of 0 Hastings Road for a Request for Determination of Applicability for localized land maintenance and safety manicuring to address tripping hazards related to the property’s underbrush and create a safe tent-pitching area.

            Town Planner Doug Guey-Lee was present remotely via Teams, and he recommended a dominance plant test to analyze wetland soil and plants on the property. He also said getting more information from the project architect would be beneficial. Walsh added that the entire site is within a flood zone and contains a natural heritage habitat with state-listed rare species potentially residing there.

            Galarza was also present remotely and asked if any part of her “family’s estate” was usable land, not within a protected area.

            Walsh clarified: “What I was talking about was, there’s a state agency called [the] Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program, and they are tasked with ensuring the protection of wildlife habitat for what we call state-listed species. When you look at the online mapping, you can do an overlay of that priority habitat.”

            The mapping software then showed that most of the land, aside from the land touching the road, on the property is within Natural Heritage’s designated “priority habitat” protected zone. Walsh clarified further that Natural Heritage will eventually look over the proposal during a Notice of Intent process and will issue its own determination.

            Galarza pushed back, asking how this information was obtained if a survey was never conducted by her or her family.

            Walsh responded, “What you’re asking is how does Natural Heritage, an endangered species program, come up with these maps? And I’m not going to answer on behalf of Natural Heritage because I don’t work for Natural Heritage. That’s a question that you can pose, or you could probably go on Natural Heritage Endangered Species Program’s website, and that would probably answer your question.”

            At the end of its meeting, the commission voted to issue a Positive Determination of Applicability, which will now require the applicant to apply for a Notice of Intent and undergo further scrutiny.

            Next began the Public Hearing for The Mary Ann Hubbard 2024 Revocable Trust of Front Street for a Notice of Intent for construction of a new single-family dwelling. Engineer Dave Davignon represented his client and detailed the proposed 28-by-38-foot, three-bedroom, two-story riverside home. The lot is on the north side of I-195, near the Rochester line.

            Walsh noted a similar project on the same lot came before the commission in 2011, which was denied. He added the area is in a regular flood zone. It was agreed the previous, 15-year-old determination should be analyzed before a decision be rendered.

            Guey-Lee noted the biggest point of reservation, as it was in 2011, would remain the wetland line and flood zone, as well as sewer conditions. In 2011, it was noted that proper sewer storage was not possible on previous plans. For public comments, abutters expressed concern over the proposed home’s proximity to the brook and its possible effect on flooding, with concern about a greater impact on neighboring properties.

            Suzanne Considine of 670 Front Street noted that one winter, Benson Brook swelled and “literally turned into a pond. It was huge, and it came right up to the road, and I just don’t know how you could possibly build a house in that area.”

            The Public Hearing was continued for roughly one month to the commission’s September 23 meeting.

            The next meeting of the Marion Conservation Commission is scheduled for Wednesday, September 9, at 7:00 pm in the Marion Police Station.

Marion Conservation Commission

By Sam Bishop

Children’s Department Events at the Mattapoisett Library

On Saturday, September 5, we welcome families to the library for Saturday Storytime. Storytime starts at 10:30 am, and you can expect all the great things from our regular storytimes, like music, books, activities, and crafts, just on a different day. This is our last Saturday Storytime until November.

            On Tuesday, September 8, at 10:30 am, get ready for a kid-approved culinary adventure. Little chefs will love making these cute under-the-sea graham crackers — a perfect snacktivity with an ocean theme. Ages 2 and up; registration is required.

            Here’s a fun, calming craft, perfect for back-to-school season. Creating DIY sensory bottles is a fun and simple craft for kids, ideal for calming down and promoting inner peace. This craft will take place on Wednesday, September 9, at 3:30 pm. Ages 6 and up; registration is required.

            Our Thursday and Friday storytimes will be returning soon. Family Storytime, which happens on Thursday mornings at 10:30, will start up again on September 17. Baby Storytime, which happens on Friday mornings at 10:30, will start up again a week later, on September 25.

            More information about all our 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.

Marion Historical Commission Shares Update

The Marion Historical Commission announces the completion of a study examining potential future uses and the cost of restoring the historic Percy Browne House.

            Preservation Massachusetts named the Percy Browne House, built in 1881–1882, one of the “10 Most Endangered Historic Resources in Massachusetts” in October 2025.

            “The Percy Browne House is regarded by many architectural historians as the prototype of the Shingle Style in America, influencing countless later examples throughout New England and beyond,” the Preservation Massachusetts report states. “Its design anticipated ideas later refined by Richardson’s associate Stanford White in the now-demolished William Low House in Bristol, Rhode Island. The house also reflects Marion’s late 19th-century associations with national intellectual life — President Grover Cleveland, a friend of Percy Brown, summered here, as did Trinity Church Rector Phillips Brooks.”

            Tabor Academy, which owns the property, has been engaged in a campus planning process since early 2025 that included exploring possible future uses for the house.

            The Marion Historical Commission received an update on the property in February. In May, architect Will Saltonstall of Saltonstall Architects attended a Commission meeting and presented findings from a reuse feasibility study his firm completed.

            Saltonstall Architects worked with a Tabor committee to evaluate potential uses for the house and determine whether it could be restored and adapted for modern use.

            “Early in our feasibility exploration, we came to a consensus that if a significant investment to preserve the property were to be made, we would recommend a restoration that removes the non-original additions, recreates an interpretation of the original Richardson design, and reintroduces the unique exterior detailing essential to the original architectural design,” the architect’s report states. “Our strategy is informed by the extensive historical research and reconstruction theories of Mark Wright in his article on the house.”

            The study recommended restoring the house as a single-family residence.

            The concept also called for preserving the house’s primary interior living spaces and historic features, including its stairwell, fireplaces and trim. A new kitchen, bathrooms and other modern improvements would be added to make the house functional as a residence.

            The proposal included an addition behind the original house to provide space for more bedrooms and utilities. It also suggested constructing a separate building of approximately 800 square feet behind the home that could serve as an apartment for a faculty member and be designed as a carriage house complementary to the historic property.

            Saltonstall Architects worked with a building contractor to develop a preliminary cost estimate. The study found that restoring and expanding the building in a manner consistent with the project’s goals would cost approximately $3.5 million to $4 million.

            Tabor Academy leadership supported the proposed design but determined that the project is not currently feasible because of other capital priorities at the school.

            The academy has taken several interim steps to secure the house and prevent further deterioration. Those measures include testing that found no new insect damage, additional roof repairs to keep the building weathertight, minor repairs to the exterior and the removal of overgrown landscaping that could damage the building.

            “The Marion Historical Commission appreciates the steps Tabor Academy has taken to help protect the Percy Browne House in the short term, but they do not resolve the larger question of its future,” said Meg Steinberg, Chair of the Marion Historical Commission. “We remain hopeful that Tabor will continue exploring funding sources and partnerships that could support the restoration and long-term preservation of this important historic property.”

            The Commission is also hopeful that a Tabor alumnus, alumni group or another donor who recognizes the house’s architectural significance may be interested in supporting the project through a restricted gift.

Mattapoisett Yacht Club August Series

Mattapoisett Yacht Club finished off its last regular week of the August series with two beautiful nights of racing. Tuesday night Ensign class saw Odyssey finish first in both races, defeating Black Ice in second, Hamburglar in third, and newcomer Reluctant sailed by David Neumeyer in fourth. Odyssey also won the August Series over Black Ice in the closely contested series.

            In the Wednesday night PHRF Class A division, Kindred Spirits won with Restless second, Coconuts third, Dame fourth and Oddball fifth. This is also the same finishing order for the August Series totals. Kindred Spirits won all four races in August.

            In the Class B division, Chickadee won the race over Lindesfarne and thereby won the August series. This series again came down to the last race with Lindisfarne, Kinsail and Fir Na Tine all within reach of the top spot.

Sweet Reflections of Summer

To the Editor;

            Sweet Reflections of Summer

            As I was strolling through the village the other day, enjoying the beauty all around me — colorful flowers at every turn, our happy little town beach, shipyard park, and people in line for ice cream at “The Slip,” boats bobbing in the harbor — I was feeling so grateful for a town that still celebrates summer things with band concerts on a Wednesday evening overflowing with happy families. As I walked on past Monroe Preserve, I stopped short. What was I seeing? I rubbed my eyes; that can’t be true — a row of monstrous houses overshadowing the marsh. Please don’t let the nightmare come true.

            Let your voices be heard on September 14.

Joyce Almeida, Mattapoisett

The views expressed in the “Letters to the Editor” column are not necessarily those of The Wanderer, its staff or advertisers. The Wanderer will gladly accept any and all correspondence relating to timely and pertinent issues in the great Marion, Mattapoisett and Rochester area, provided they include the author’s name, address and phone number for verification. We cannot publish anonymous, unsigned or unconfirmed submissions. The Wanderer reserves the right to edit, condense and otherwise alter submissions for purposes of clarity and/or spacing considerations. The Wanderer may choose to not run letters that thank businesses, and The Wanderer has the right to edit letters to omit business names. The Wanderer also reserves the right to deny publication of any submitted correspondence. All letters must be typed and submitted directly to: news@wanderer.com.

Flock Cameras Draw Scrutiny in Rochester

Rochester officials received a letter from two dozen residents on the morning of Monday, August 24, requesting that the town suspend use of Flock Safety cameras and hold a public town meeting to address their privacy and data concerns. While a discussion is planned for a currently undetermined Select Board meeting, the Rochester Police Chief has rejected suspending the cameras.

            Flock cameras, which can identify vehicles and temporarily store that data in a searchable police database, have seen national criticism in recent weeks as officers across the US have been charged for misusing the system. The company behind it has been accused by groups like the ACLU of “trying to build a nationwide mass surveillance system.”

            In its letter, the group — which calls itself “Eyes Off Rochester” — stated that the installation of these cameras “represents one of the most significant expansions of government surveillance Rochester has ever experienced.” Twenty-four Rochester residents signed the letter.

            “Every day law-abiding citizens of our town and visitors have their vehicles photographed, their license plates recorded, their locations logged, and their travel histories entered into a nationwide searchable database — not because they are suspected of committing a crime, but simply because they drove on a public road,” the letter stated. “Rochester residents were never given the opportunity to meaningfully debate whether they wanted this level of surveillance. Instead, a system capable of tracking people’s movements was implemented with no public discussion, limited transparency, and insufficient opportunity for residents to understand its implications.”

            Police Chief Michael Assad defended the Department’s usage of Flock in a Facebook post on Monday, August 24, stating that, “Nearly every tool entrusted to law enforcement has the potential to be misused. That doesn’t mean we eliminate those tools; it means we establish rules.”

            Assad also said the claims in the letter did not reflect the realities of the system or the police’s policies and did not warrant suspending Flock.

             “I don’t believe we should discontinue a legitimate investigative tool simply because another agency somewhere else may have used that technology improperly,” said Assad. “Our decisions should be based on facts and our practices here in Rochester.

            If misuse of Flock cameras occurred, such as in New Bedford where a Police Officer has been accused of stalking an ex-girlfriend through the cameras, Assad said individuals would face consequences and policies would be adjusted accordingly as needed.

            He added, “If I ever become convinced that the risks of a technology outweigh its public-safety benefits, then I would reconsider using it.”

            Town Administrator Cameron Durant said he does not believe the camera system will expand in the future, and the Police Chief said he would only consider expanding it if we identify an area where an additional camera would provide a legitimate public-safety or investigative benefit.”

            A public Q&A on Flock will be held by the Police Chief at the Rochester Police Station on Thursday, September 3, at 10:00 am, demonstrating the system’s capabilities, limitations, and usage.

            Assad told The Wanderer, “If someone supports the technology, come see it. If someone opposes it, I especially encourage them to come. My goal isn’t to convince everyone to agree with me. My goal is to make sure people are forming their opinions based on accurate information.”

            The town currently operates four cameras, located by Plumb Corner, Seasons Gas, Lloyd’s Market, and the Walnut Plain-Route 105 intersection. The cameras were installed throughout the year after the town obtained a state grant in January.

By Zakary Sarkarati

Petition Withdrawn Without Prejudice

The Rochester Zoning Board of Appeals’ brief meeting on August 27 focused on whether the board should allow a petition to be withdrawn “without prejudice.”

            The hearing on its agenda was an application for a special permit for an accessory dwelling unit larger than 900 square feet at 128 Dexter Lane, filed by Conservation Commission member Carl MacDermott and his wife, Joyce.

            Board chair Donald Spirlet reported receiving an email from the MacDermotts requesting permission to withdraw the petition “without prejudice,” which means the applicant reserves the right to refile in the future.

            Spirlet asked whether that meant the MacDermotts would eventually apply again for the same plan. He asked board administrator Andreia Lacerda whether the board should approve the withdrawal “with prejudice,” which would permanently bar a further application.

            Lacerda said she has been told that the MacDermotts have decided against building a finished basement for their son, as he is purchasing a residence elsewhere. After this explanation, Spirlet did not consider his suggestion any further. The seven-member board unanimously accepted the request to withdraw without prejudice.

            In other business, Larceda reported that no new zoning board petitions have been filed as of this date. There will be no regularly scheduled meeting on September 10.

Rochester Zoning Board of Appeals

By Michael J. DeCicco

MAC: A Fresh Slate of Classes for Fall

The Marion Art Center (MAC) has scheduled an exciting new slate of fall classes for both children and adults.

            Adult Classes

            Fundamentals of Drawing — A new class at the MAC, instructor Patty White returns with a course for adults who want to learn drawing fundamentals in an encouraging environment. During the eight-week session, participants will work on paper using pencil or ink and cover topics such as basic mark-making, line, value, volume, perspective, and texture. Ample time is provided for in-class studio practice, drawing still life, florals, manufactured items, the human face and figure, or nature. This course suits both beginners and more experienced students. The eight-week Fall Session 1 runs Tuesdays, September 8 through November 3 (with no class on October 6) from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. The course is $215 for MAC members and $255 for nonmembers. More information and registration are available at marionartcenter.org/adult-classes.

            Six-Week Acting Class: Scene Study for Adults — The new acting class is geared toward those curious about standing on stage or returning to acting after other paths. The class offers a chance to explore acting in a supportive environment with experienced instructors guiding participants. Actors will dissect classic texts or scenes from modern plays, dust off their funny bone with theater games, and explore acting fundamentals. Participants will practice reading texts, character analysis, voice work and more. Whether preparing for an audition at the MAC or elsewhere, or trying something new, all are welcome. The Fall Session 1 runs Wednesdays, September 23 through November 4 (with no class on October 14) from 6:00 to 8:00 pm in the MAC’s Patsy Francis Gallery, upstairs at the MAC, 80 Pleasant St., Marion. The cost is $195 for MAC members and $225 for nonmembers. More information and registration are available at marionartcenter.org/adult-classes.

            Weaving on a Rigid Heddle Loom — Lisa Elliott returns to the MAC to teach weaving or help students refine their techniques. Over five weeks, students will create and take home a woven project. They will weave one of the following: a scarf, table runner, set of placemats or set of tea towels. Looms and weaving equipment are provided for a $10 fee, but students may bring their own rigid heddle loom. Classes are held Thursdays, September 11 through October 9, from 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm in the MAC Studio. The five-week class costs $150 for MAC members and $160 for nonmembers. More information and registration can be found at marionartcenter.org/adult-classes.

            Improv Workshop — The popular Improv Workshop is back for one night only. Garett Olson and Jess Ellis-Wilson will conduct the workshop on October 2, from 6:30 to 8:30 pm, at the MAC’s Anne Braitmayer Webb Theater. This course is a basic introduction to improvisation. Coursework includes beginner games and exercises exploring awareness, relaxation, observation, the senses, voice and physicality. Students should dress comfortably and be ready to move during class because anything can happen in improv. Students are encouraged to bring any questions about improvisation. The cost is $40 for MAC members and $50 for nonmembers. More information and registration are at marionartcenter.org/adult-classes.

            Silk Painting: The Color of Taste — RED: Painted Pomegranates on Silk — What does red taste like? It tastes of strength, joy, energy, maturity and love. The taste of red is the taste of the king of all fruits, the pomegranate. Let’s paint this symbol of sun, life, abundance, rebirth, immortality and love together. Explore your creative side by experimenting with color and paint without fear of mistakes. Join instructor Lidia Mikhaylova in this easy, relaxing silk painting workshop. At the end, students will take home their own work. Instead of complex techniques, students will observe how paint moves on fabric using various application methods. The workshop is Saturday, October 3, from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm in the MAC Studio. The cost is $60 for MAC members and $75 for nonmembers. All materials will be provided. The workshop is limited to a small group —more information and registration at marionartcenter.org/adult-classes.

            All Levels Watercolor Painting for Adults — Instructor Jay Ryan continues at the MAC with a new autumn schedule. His course suits those with some painting experience and is a perfect next step for those wanting to explore watercolor beyond basic color and brush strokes. In each class, students will start a new painting together using landscape, still life, figure, abstract or imaginative, or narrative subjects. At the end, there will be a brief, supportive group critique. Students will leave with expanded knowledge of technique and traditional and contemporary watercolor uses. Ryan offers a two-hour Thursday session from 10 a.m. to noon in the MAC Studio, and a three-hour Friday session from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The eight-week session begins September 10/11 and runs through October 29/30. The two-hour Thursday session costs $215 for MAC members and $255 for nonmembers. The three-hour expanded Friday session costs $320 for MAC members and $365 for nonmembers. Drop-ins are also welcome, at $35 to $50 per day — more information and registration at marionartcenter.org/adult-classes.

            Children’s Classes

            Early Release/Half-Day Camp (Ages 6–12) — The MAC’s half-day camps are special, one-time themed sessions for students released early from school. Children will be walked over from Sippican School and then enjoy time in the MAC Studio. On Friday, October 9,from 12:20 pm to 3:00 pm., the focus is Wild Art. Campers will explore the animal kingdom through paint, clay, collage and more. Each project is inspired by a different creature and introduces a new art technique, from texture-making to color mixing. No art experience is needed, just a love of critters and a willingness to get messy. The cost is $75 for MAC members and $85 for nonmembers. More information is at marionartcenter.org/art-lab.

            MAC Dance Academy (Ages 2.5–9) — MAC Dance Academy is a classically taught dance studio that fosters individuality and fun for children ages 2.5 to 9. These two relaxed programs provide instruction in ballet, tap and jazz, with touches of contemporary, hip-hop and gymnastics, all in a safe, fun environment. Registration for fall classes is now open.

            Preschool/Kinderstep Dance (Ages 2.5–5) — This class is a joyful introduction to ballet, tap and basic tumbling, with a strong focus on movement and music. It is designed to be exploratory and fun, giving young dancers freedom to express themselves, whether following along or dancing to their own beat. The cost per 12-week session is $225 for MAC members and $260 for nonmembers.

            Elementary Dance/Tumbling (Ages 5–9) — This class suits children ready to explore ballet and tap and build basic tumbling skills in a structured yet fun environment. Teachers provide classical dance instruction paired with games and creative activities to keep young dancers engaged and excited. The cost per 12-week session is $290 for MAC members and $330 for nonmembers. More information and registration at marionartcenter.org/mac-dance-academy/.

            Art in the Afternoon: The Maker Club (Ages 6–12) — In this hands-on art club, kids will have access to a wide variety of arts and crafts materials, tools and textures each week. From paint and paper to recycled bits, fabric, wire and more, every session is an invitation to explore, invent and make something uniquely their own. With creative prompts to spark ideas and a supportive instructor to guide their process, students are free to experiment, tinker and express themselves in a relaxed, imaginative environment. Whether building, drawing, gluing or sculpting, Maker Club is about the joy of creating without pressure, where the process matters more than the final product. It is perfect for curious minds who love to explore and make art their own way. Fall Session 1 sessions are September 11, 18, 25, October 2, 16 and 23. There are two options: a one-hour session or a 1.5-hour session after school. The longer option allows an extra half hour for creation and exploration and more time for guardians to arrive for pickup. The one-hour option runs from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm in the MAC Studio and is $155 for MAC members and $185 for nonmembers. The 1.5-hour option runs from 3:00 to 4:30 pm and is $235 for MAC members and $275 for nonmembers. More information and registration are available at marionartcenter.org/art-lab.

St. Philip’s Concludes 142nd Season with Services and Hymn Sing

St. Philip’s Episcopal Church will conclude the summer-only season on Sunday, September 6. The Rev. Robert Malm, Interim Rector at St. Peter’s on the Canal, Buzzards Bay, will lead services at 8:00 am and 10:00 am, using the 1928 Book of Common Prayer.

            Then at 4:00 pm there will be an informal, old-fashioned Hymn Sing led by Graham Shultz, the organist at St. Stephen’s Church, Providence, RI. The congregation is encouraged to request their favorite hymns. St. Philip’s is located at 34 Water St., next to the Town Beach in Mattapoisett. All are welcome to attend both functions.