Weed Control and Private Pier

on

During the Monday meeting of the Mattapoisett Conservation Commission, several new Notice of Intent filings were featured.

            First up was a NOI filed by Raymond Hanks of 18 Crystal Springs Road to receive permitting for the removal of invasive plants, including Japanese Knot Weed and Bittersweet.

            After a lengthy discussion with the commissioners and the environmental agent Samantha Carew it was determined that Hanks’ proposal for weed eradication needed further review due to nearby jurisdictional areas on the property. No action was taken at this time.

            An NOI filed by the Pratt Family Living Trust,11 Sea Marsh Way for beach nourishment could not be heard as a Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) file number is pending. The filing was continued to June 22.

            An NOI filed by the Elizabeth May Cannell Family Trust, was conditioned for the construction of a private pier and boat dock.

            The project will require a Chapter 91 waterways license it was noted.

            The next meeting of the Mattapoisett Conservation Commission will be held on June 22.

Mattapoisett Conservation Commission

By Marilou Newell

Mattapoisett Celebrates USA 250

on

The Mattapoisett Celebrates USA 250 Committee invites you to join the fun. Beginning Thursday July 2 to Saturday July 4.

            Thursday July 2, Field of Flags at Dunseith Garden – Mattapoisett Woman‘s Club is sponsoring a Field of Flags to honor our nation’s 250th anniversary. The club will be placing 400 flags at The Mattapoisett Land Trust Dunseith Gardens on July 2 and 3. They along with the 250th Committee invite Mattapoisett residents to request a ribbon to be attached to a flag in honor of someone special- a veteran or simply a loved one you wish to honor. The flags will remain for the week of July 4. You can request a ribbon by emailing the Woman’s Club at President@mattapoisettwomansclub.org We hope these hundreds of flags will stand as a moving symbol of unity, gratitude and pride. The last day to request a ribbon is June 25.

            Friday July 3 beginning at 4:30 pm, Community Picnic at Ned’s Point – Families should bring their own favorite picnic suppers. There will be games and activities for children and their families. At 5:30 pm we will stop for a brief welcoming ceremony with Brianna Lynch singing God Bless America. At 7:00 pm David Dunn will present musical entertainment and a patriotic singalong. The purchase of ice cream and beverages will be available. We will celebrate until the lighthouse comes on.

            Saturday July 4, Happy Birthday America – Beginning at 1:00 pm there will be bus tours leaving from Center School and touring the original center of Mattapoisett. The Mattapoisett Historical Museum will be guide, who will share interesting stories and point out landmarks and places of interest from the early 1700’s, some of which are still standing. Each tour will be approximately 30 – 40 minutes.

            The museum will be open to the public sharing their considerable collection of Mattapoisett life, some of which predates the establishment of the United States of America.

            Mattapoisett Firefighters’ Memories – Before the onset of internet communications Mattapoisett was blessed with citizens who responded to emergency calls for help in the event of fires and other serious unexpected situations. They were willing to leave families, jobs and anything else to protect the citizens of this town and local communities that needed extra help. Beginning at 2:00 pm in the tent on the corner of Church and Baptist St. there will be a gathering of some of those dedicated to the safety of this town without access to so many of the advanced equipment available to our Fire Department today. A panel discussion with several retired call firefighters who served our community prior to the introduction of computerized emergency notification systems. An exhibition featuring antique and obsolete firefighting equipment will be available. Afternoon events will finish between 4:00 pm and 4:30 pm.

            Intergenerational family line dancing on the wharf -Beginning at 6:30 pm, Bootin An Scootin with Sarah T. will lead us in country line dancing and trivia question entertainment under the night sky.

Mattapoisett Free Public Library

on

Step into the summer swing at the Mattapoisett Free Public Library, located at 7 Barstow Street.

            Looking for a craft community? Weaving Wednesdays will start on June 17 at 4:00 pm, and all fiber artists are welcome. The Sewing & Maker club will meet on June 20 at 10:00 am – just bring your own projects & supplies, excluding messy crafts. Find more information on our website.

            Join local massage therapist, Steven McIntyre, for an educational workshop on connective tissue, also known as your fascia, on Saturday, June 20 at 2:00 pm. Learn what fascia is, how it works, how it can hinder your movement and cause pain or tension, and how to keep it healthy.

            Celebrate America’s 250th year with a Quill & Ink Program taught by Martha Washington, portrayed by Sandy Spector, on June 23 at 2:00 pm. Learn about the history of quill & ink writing, and then try it for yourself. Please register on our website to reserve a spot. Continue celebrating America’s 250th with Abigail Adams, portrayed by Audrey Stuck-Girard, for a living history program about the Adams family during the revolution. This event will be at the library on June 24 at 5:30 pm, and no registration is required.

            Try out one of our book clubs this summer. The Well-Read Wednesdays Book Group will meet on June 24 at 6pm to discuss “Eve: How the Female Body Drove 200 Million Years of Human Evolution,” by Cat Bohannon. Copies will be available at the library. The MFPL is also launching a new Picnic Book Club Series. Gather on the front lawn of the library on June 26 at 10am for a literary conversation and light snacks and beverages. Bring a book of your choice and come ready to discuss. Please register on our website to participate.

            Professional calligrapher, Debby Reelitz, will host a hands-on program, “Calligraphy that inspired a nation: learn to write like America’s founders,” on June 30 at 6:30 pm. Learn about calligraphy, and then try it for yourself. Register on our website to reserve your spot.

            Acclaimed author Eric Jay Dolin is speaking at MFPL on July 1 at 5:30 pm. Eric will discuss his 2022 publication, “Rebels at Sea: Privateering in the American Revolution,” followed by a Q&A with attendees. Use the library catalog or call the library directly to place a hold on one of his books. This program is supported by a grant from the Mattapoisett Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.

            As always, our programs and events are free and open to everyone. For more information, please visit us at 7 Barstow Street, online at www.mattapoisettlibrary.org, or call the library at 508-758-4171.

The Great Community Picnic

on

Begin with a summer sunset by the harbor, friends and neighbors, and your own delicious picnic fare. Add great live music by Seth Asser & Gary Brown. Throw in fresh local oysters and a table decorating contest. Result? The Great Community Picnic on Thursday evening, August 6, 5:30 to 8:30pm at Munro Preserve adjacent to the town wharf.

            Mattapoisett Land Trust and Mattapoisett Museum, the event hosts, will provide tables, chairs, and tablecloths. Bring your own food, utensils & plates. Creatively transform your table with flowers, napkins, etc.

            Tables available for 4 ($160), 6 ($240), 8 ($320) or 10 ($400) diners. A place at the community table costs $40. Buy a ticket for the community table or buy a table. Space is limited – buy a table while they last. Tickets are available online: www.mattapoisettmuseum.org/event-info/the-2026-great-community-picnic. Ticket sales will end on Monday, July 27 or when we sell out, whichever comes first. Make plans now to join us for this festive memorable evening.

Old Rochester Regional School Committee Meeting

on

To the Editor:

            While the intense tension at the recent Old Rochester Regional school committee meeting was unsettling, the true story of the night was the majority of neighbors who stood up to demand basic human empathy.

            Of the many residents who spoke, only a handful attempted to turn Rochester Memorial School into a front line in a national culture war. When outside political scripts are brought into our town, the actual children involved disappear. It was disheartening to witness adults overemphasize everyday elementary schoolyard friction between nine-year-olds, even turning it into a formal legal complaint, to push a rigid ideological agenda against a vulnerable transgender child.

            They chose to look past the facts, including the reality that Massachusetts law has strictly protected student gender identity since 2011. The administration is legally obligated to protect this child’s civil rights; failing to do so would expose our district to costly lawsuits.

            Thankfully, the quiet majority in the Tri-Town chose compassion. The parade of speakers advocating kindness reminded us of our community’s true character. If parents are genuinely concerned about privacy, the solution is practical and physical: accelerate the installation of single-occupancy, gender-neutral restrooms.

            We cannot let a loud, polarized echo chamber dictate how we treat our neighbors’ children. Our elementary schools must remain a safe, quiet refuge for kids to learn, not a battlefield for adult disagreements.

            Sincerely,

Jeanne Hopkins, 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.

A Genuflection to Rhododendrons

on

            Two striking specimens stare me down as I make my morning cup of joe. Their brilliant shades of fuchsia and crimson, framed in neighboring windows, deliver an instant jolt of energy before I’ve taken my first sip of coffee. In that moment, I feel ready for summer and for a thousand more blissful moments to come.

            Rhododendrons have an almost royal presence in the New England landscape and their effect on me is to make a kind of mental genuflection, which is to say they have my respect. The steady rains of spring have provided a robust start to the trees and shrubs in the landscape, so it’s a particularly good year for the rhododendrons. Whether seen at a distance or up close, they instill awe. You cannot ignore them. They are main players, even if they aren’t meant to be.

            This observation has proven true over the years and across a variety of locations. In Newport, I found these magnificent trees flanking the stately grounds of The Elms, the historic Bellevue Avenue estate built in 1901 for coal magnate Edward Berwind. Although nearly all of the original elms succumbed to disease long ago, a collection of expertly sculpted specimens now complements the mansion’s imposing architecture. In spring, masses of flowering rhododendrons heightened the scene’s grandeur, unfolding before the eye like a vibrant pop-up illustration from a children’s book.

            Another memorable “rhody moment” occurred while pedaling my bike through Fairhaven’s historic village, forcing me to an involuntary halt, de-cleating as I reached for my camera. There they stood like sentinels outside a fortress, coloring an entrance walk while framing an American flag.

            Expected encounters can be just as rewarding. Sitting shotgun while my Dad drove his golf cart through his back forty where he grows rhododendrons among other herbaceous material, I saw them… looking like soldiers returning victorious from the fields at Agincourt. (Ok that is a slight exaggeration, but they really had presence out in the green field.)

            Naturally, my own collection of rhododendrons come from my father’s, and I opted for different colors; a decision that has resulted in a continuous swirl of color, especially now that they have grown together. With a privet hedge backdrop and an understory of ferns, hosta, epimedium, and lily of the valley, I have dubbed it my woodland garden. A mountain laurel and two towering white pines complete the picture with intermittent bluebells and foxgloves. Now in its zenith, you might say, but no less impressive in winter when it touts shiny evergreen leaves that keep the theme going.

            Later in the day when I carry on weeding, I will go in for a closer view of the voluptuous petals. It’s something Georgia O’Keefe might have painted had she lived in New England with the delicate striations and splashes of color. Post flowering, I remove their spent blossoms one by one, a therapeutic habit that expresses my full dedication to these plants.

            Rhododendron species are found in the wild from the arctic regions to the tropics, spanning a wide range of climates, according to the American Rhododendron Society, a non-profit organization whose purpose is to encourage interest in and to disseminate information about the genus Rhododendron. In the United States, a large number of hybrids flourish in the Pacific Northwest, especially between the Cascades and the Pacific Ocean.

            From the ARS website I learned that Rhododendrons and their subgenus azaleas belong to the heath family (Ericaceae) which includes the heaths and heathers, blueberries, mountain laurels and several other ornamental plant groups. Most of these plants require acid soil and good drainage. They don’t like disturbance of their roots, so mulching them with leaves is recommended. I use the readily available spent pine needles and that seems to work fine.

            Although sunlight is essential to full flowering, the plants will grow in shade and in some cases, some shade should be provided as protection from the early morning sunlight during winter. Many rhododendrons grow naturally under complete or partial shade of a forest canopy, but they will succeed in sunnier locations.

            For rhododendrons planted in less fertile soils, a complete fertilizer designed for acid-loving plants may be applied in late winter or early spring. Be careful not to exceed recommended amounts. In cold climate zones nitrogen fertilizer should not be applied after late June as it may promote new lush growth susceptible to winter damage.

            As with many plants, rhododendrons have a place in literary symbolism. British author Daphne Du Maurier’s novel Rebecca, makes references to the character of Rebecca using the image of “blood red” rhododendrons throughout the novel as a cautionary note. This is believed to parallel the plant’s toxic roots and poisonous character of Rebecca and also foreshadows spilled blood and red flames of Manderley that burns at the novel’s conclusion.

            Rhododendrons are native to parts of Asia, including Nepal, where they are celebrated as the national flower. Their blossoms are considered edible and prized for their pleasantly tart flavor; the juice is even commercially produced and sold. Today, more than 1,000 species of rhododendrons are found around the world, ranging from cultivated specimens that anchor designed landscapes to wild populations that spill across remote mountain slopes.

            With summer fast approaching and the blooms already beginning to fade, we won’t soon forget our first embrace.

            “There is a sumptuous variety about the New England weather that compels the stranger’s admiration – and regret. The weather is always doing something there; always attending strictly to business; always getting up new designs and trying them on people.” – Mark Twain.

The Seaside Gardener

By Laura McLean

Abutters Press Planning Board On Solar

on

            The Rochester Planning Board Tuesday re-opened its Site Plan Review Permit Hearing on a proposal to build a one-megawatt, ground-mounted solar array on Walnut Plain Road to a roomful of abutters and residents with questions.

            The Walnut Plain Road installation will be on a 9.5-acre footprint of a 21-acre parcel, said project representative Sarah Stern. The array itself will cover six acres and include a fenced-in perimeter and vegetative screens.

            Residents immediately raised a myriad of concerns. Michael Kennefick, an attorney representing close abutter Sarah Preston, said his recent letter to the board disputes the soil type that the developer assumes is on site as they calculate that of water runoff to plan for. Clay will lead to a different runoff than sand when paved. His client’s property is four acres on the east side that could see more runoff. Stern responded that soil types are an assumption at this point, test pits and plan adjustments will come after the basic design is approved.

            Abutter Kim Ashley said she objected to the project because she owns deeded cranberry land to the north and the project would block her deeded right of way. Chair Arnold Johnson noted other solar projects in town have solved easement issues by moving the easement access. Ashley, an attorney by trade, agreed to give the board a copy of that documentation. Ultimately, the board continued this hearing to July 14 to allow time for a review from the town’s peer engineer.

            The meeting began with an informal discussion of a proposed back lot subdivision at 83 Hiller Road and Winters Way. The developer’s representative Brian Wallace explained this 13.6-acre site checks all the boxes for a Form A residential lot, but he wanted to know if the proposed road meets the town’s standards. The board signaled it had no problem with the plan. Wallace said he will now submit a formal Form A lot permit application.

            In other action, the board continued to June 23 its site plan review hearing on a plan to clear and re-grade land behind Town Hall for an 8,220-square foot parking lot.

            The board also continued to June 23 its two-site plan review and special permit hearings for High Street Solar 1 and 2 at 0 High St. The total property is 120 acres; the installation will cover 20 acres. Application two covers the northern lots near Mayflower Lane. Application covers the remainder.

            The Rochester Planning Board’s next scheduled meeting will be Tuesday, June 23 at 7:00 pm at Town Hall, 1 Constitution Way.

Rochester Planning Board

By Michael J. DeCicco

Anne V. Garvey

on

Anne V. Garvey, 89, of Dartmouth, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 8, 2026.

            Born in Cambridge, daughter of the late Leo and Evelyn (Morin) Garvey, she lived in Woburn and Winchester most of her life.

            Anne enjoyed art, golfing, socializing with her friends and traveling. She was a teacher in Woburn Public Schools for many years.

            Survivors include her siblings, Mary McLaughlin of Andover, and Richard Garvey and his wife Patricia of Rochester; as well as sister in law Joan Garvey of Winchester, Mass. She is survived by many nieces and nephews and untold number of friends. Most important members are Ryan and Liz Garvey along with great nephew Brayden and great niece Kendall of Rochester, Mass. They included her in a lot of social activities including pool time, boating, cookouts and of course Captain Bonney’s for ice cream.

            She is predeceased by her parents; and her siblings Jean, Leo, Jack, and Patricia.

            A private family burial will be held in Wildwood Cemetery, Winchester in the future. For online guestbook, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com

Marion Democratic Town Committee Meeting

on

All Marion Democrats are invited to attend the Marion Democratic Town Committee (MDTC) meeting at 5:30 pm Thursday, June 18. This last meeting before a summer break will be held at the home of the chair, Sharon Matzek, 10 Cove Street. The committee will discuss the presentation of awards to ORR students who won prizes for their essays on democracy. We also will talk about our backing progressive campaigns nationally, and whom we plan to support. Upcoming MDTC events are the July 4th parade and a Damien’s Food Pantry drive. Light refreshments will be served.

Sippican Lands Trust Arthur Scholarship Recipients

on

Sippican Lands Trust is pleased to announce the 2026 recipients of the Richard I. and Helen A. Arthur Scholarship. This award is given to high school senior(s) or student(s) in their first or second year of college who are Marion residents, with a preference towards students interested in the environment, conservation, or a related field of study.

            The scholarship is made available through the Sippican Lands Trust Scholarship Fund. This award was created and named after Richard I. “Dick” (1933-2018) and Helen Adams Arthur (1940-2008), who were beloved residents of Marion and long-time volunteers with the organization. Dick and Helen were deeply committed to preserving Marion’s beautiful open spaces.

            This year’s scholarship recipients are Caroline Houdelette of Old Rochester Regional High School (ORR) and Stella Ingle of Tabor Academy. Both students distinguished themselves through outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and a strong commitment to their communities. Their experiences, interests, and future goals reflect a deep dedication to the sciences and to advancing the wellbeing of those around them.

            Caroline’s passion for healthcare and environmental health, along with her pursuit of a career in nursing, made her an exceptional candidate. Stella’s interest in supporting both human and animal wellbeing, alongside her aspiration to pursue a career in animal medicine, also made her an exceptional candidate. Sippican Lands Trust is proud to support these promising young scholars and is confident that their knowledge, compassion, and determination will lead to meaningful contributions in their respective fields.

            Congratulations, Caroline and Stella.