Fire Station Plans Explained

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In a sharp response to recent criticism of the way officials are handling the plan for a new fire station on the former Rochester Country Fairgrounds, Rochester’s Select Board Monday clarified the facts with help from members of the Public Safety Facility Building Committee.

            At the board’s last meeting two weeks ago, Select Board member Adam Murphy said a recent letter from residents is critical of town officials for their spending and lack of “transparency” related to the plan. On Monday, Murphy and Town Administrator Cameron Durant counteracted that criticism.

            Durant said the planning stage is an effort to recognize the needs for a new fire station under modern requirements for a safe and effective department headquarters. “A fire station requires specialized design elements to accommodate modern emergency response operations,” he said.

            He added that important considerations when building a fire station or other municipal buildings include complying with bidding law, “robust” information technology and communications infrastructure to support emergency dispatch operations, a specialized ventilation system for fire engine exhaust and hazard-zone separation and decontamination spaces owing to the nature of fire emergency work. Important considerations for developing the site at 65 Pine Street include that there will be no water or gas service without plans for a sizable cistern and an underground propane tank.

            Durant said the January 27 Special Town Meeting approved $55,000 for site work and engineering to determine whether 65 Pine Street is a viable location for the new fire station, and that crucial work has just begun. “We are going through what is mandatory for the best value possible,” he said. “The committee is carefully reviewing the initial design to prioritize essential needs over optimal features. The next step is to finalize the design and obtain cost estimates.”

            Murphy explained what has been spent to date. A 2023 Public Safety Feasibility Study conducted by Cambridge-based Gallant Architecture Studio, Inc. cost the town $105,619.72, of which $50,000 was funded through a state ear-marked grant. He said a total of $119,918.12 has been spent so far on design plans. Out of that $50,000 came from a grant.

            Public Safety Facility Building Committee Chairman Arnold Johnson then said what will likely satisfy the plan’s critics the most. He noted that Gallant was replaced with the current consultant, Catalyst Architecture Interiors, because Gallant was not willing to yield for the sake of saving costs on what building materials should be used. He noted that the town reduced construction cost of the Rochester Memorial School building project with similar choices.

            Johnson said the site work is just starting for the building foundation. The progress of this phase will be discussed at the next Public Safety Facility Building Committee meeting on March 13. “We will value-engineer the plan and drill down on needs versus wants,” Johnson promised.

            The lone question from meeting attendees came from Zoning Board of Appeals member Jeffrey Costa, who asked if a schematic of the plans is available. Murphy answered that the committee has not gotten this far yet, that it will know more about the eventual plan when it meets on March 13. Committee member David Arancio added, “Value engineering (of the plan) will continue even as construction begins.”

            In other action, the Select Board approved the Patriot Half Marathon to take place in town on June 14 and the Cranberry Trifest Triathlon on August 24.

            The board signed the Solect Energy Development contract and its plan to install solar panels at Rochester Memorial School. In a previous meeting, Murphy had raised questions about the Payment-in-Lieu-of-Taxes (PILOT) agreement within the pact. On Monday, Murphy said he had received clarification on this point.

            The board signed the Rochester Police Department body camera Memo of Understanding. Under the new Police Union contract, all patrol officers have agreed to wear body cameras. In exchange, the Police Union has been granted a raise in the private detail rate to $65 per hour.

            Select Board Chairman Brad Morse announced performance reviews for the town administrator and Police Chief Michael Assad will be scheduled soon.

            The board appointed Murphy to meet with Old Colony Regional Vocational-Technical High School representatives regarding the School Resource Officer budget.

            The board approved the Peter Crapo Cartway as a new public way.

            The next meeting of the Rochester Select Board is scheduled for Monday, March 17, at 6:00 pm at 1 Constitution Way.

Rochester Select Board

By Michael J. DeCicco

BBAHFH Seeking Wheelchair Ramps

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Buzzards Bay Area Habitat for Humanity (BBAHFH) is seeking metal wheelchair ramp donations for Ramp Donation Program. According to Executive Director Christine Lacourse, “There is a growing need in our area of people that need wheelchair ramps but cannot afford them. Our Ramp Donation program is making such a difference in people’s lives that need our help. We are working with families who do not have safe access to come back to their homes or leave for doctor appointments. They appreciate having their freedom back.”

            BBAHFH has installed eleven ramps over the last eight months for several elderly and disabled individuals. As one recipient enthused after receiving a new ramp, “It is perfect. Perfect. I can get to the ramp by myself which opens everything for me as far as transportation goes. I am more independent.” The daughter of another ramp recipient who was able to leave a nursing home due to the BBAHFH ramp remarked, “The first day I brought her home, she lit up like a kid in a candy store.”

            Another recipient able to walk, but not safely walk down her front steps, remarked, “I can walk down the ramp and go outside by myself. I enjoy it so much. The new ramp has made it so much better, and I can’t believe how much easier it is to walk. I am almost speechless about the change it made for me.”

            BBAHH formally introduced the Ramp Donation program to give low-income homeowners the accessibility they needed to remain safely in their homes. Through ramp donations and purchases, BBAHFH has built an inventory available that can be loaned out and installed by volunteers when needed by a family. Typically, ramps are installed at no cost to the family due to grant funding like the one received through the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection which has in part funded the project.

            Ramps are expensive, often needed on short notice, and frequently needed only temporarily. When a family no longer requires the ramp, it is picked up by BBAHFH and then loaned to another low-income family in need. The Ramp Donation program helps those with existing accessibility issues, temporary injuries, or those who are checking out of a rehabilitation facility. BBAHFH is running this program throughout Acushnet, Dartmouth, Fairhaven, Marion, Mattapoisett, New Bedford, Rochester, Wareham, and Westport.

            BBAHFH is currently looking for ramps to keep up with the demand to help additional families and applicants that are low-income and in need of a ramp. As a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, ramp donations are tax deductible per the IRS code. In addition, donors benefit from the removal of unwanted ramps and can feel good about helping another in need.

            To raise money to support its programs, BBAHFH is hosting a premier fundraising event “Building Hope, Building Futures” at the New Bedford Whaling Museum on May 1st featuring hors d’oeuvres, desserts, a signature cocktail the “Blueprint”, live music, and silent auction. Tickets are $100 in advance and may be purchased at www.BuzzardsBayHabitat.org or by sending a check to BBAHFH, P.O. Box 1584, Mattapoisett, MA 02739.

            For more information on the fundraiser or Ramp Donation program, email Christine Lacourse at BuzzardsBayAreaHabitat@yahoo.com, or call 508-758-4517.

Learn-to-Crochet Class

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The Mattapoisett Museum at 5 Church Street is once again offering its popular Learn-to-Crochet class for beginners and advanced beginners. The class, which will be instructed by Jackie Sousa, will occur almost every Monday from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, starting March 10 and ending April 14. Please reserve your spot at www.mattapoisettmuseum.org/event-info/crochet-for-beginners-advanced-beginners-2

            Jackie recommends bringing a size G or H crochet hook and a skein of cotton yarn, such as Lily Sugar’n Cream Super Size Yarn. This class is limited to 6-9 people depending on experience level; tickets must be purchased in advance for the session. Refunds will not be given unless we have to cancel the session. The cost is $120 for Museum Members or $130 for non-members. Cash or check are preferred methods of payment. Register now and bring it to the first class.

            Jackie Sousa has been knitting and crocheting since she was a small child, skills that her grandmother taught her mom and were passed down through the generations. Jackie has done craft shows and sells her goods on Facebook, which can be seen at Jackie’s Knits and Knots, where she takes special orders. Most of the classes she has taught have been in a home setting with small groups to provide more one-on-one instruction. She has also worked with the Girls Scouts and has taught many people the basics of knitting and crocheting.

ORRJHS Student Wins Silver Key in Scholastic Art & Writing Awards

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Old Rochester Regional School District and MA Superintendency Union #55 Superintendent Michael S. Nelson and Principal Silas Coellner are proud to announce that an eighth grader from Old Rochester Regional Junior High School is being honored with a Silver Key from the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards for the Massachusetts region.

            Sophie Zhou, an eighth-grade student, received a Silver Key in the Drawing & Illustration category for her piece, “Balancing Act.” The drawing is a self-portrait that depicts a girl in a yellow shirt balancing three books on her head.

            “This piece in particular was one where I was experimenting with colors. It is a self-portrait in which I tried to utilize every color in the rainbow while coloring the skin,” said Zhou, who grew up in a family of artists. “I also experimented with posture and drawing how gravity affected the books on my head. I was inspired by the symbolism of consuming knowledge, balance, and fragility.”

            Dating back to 1923, the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards is the nation’s longest-running, most prestigious recognition program for creative teens, rewarding outstanding creative achievements by students in grades 7-12. Each year, thousands of young artists across the country submit their work for consideration, based on 28 categories of art and writing.

            This year, the Massachusetts region received nearly 8,000 individual art entries. A total of 730 Silver Keys and 1,330 Honorable Mentions were awarded across the state.

            Zhou, whose love for drawing came before she was old enough for school, said she was surprised and grateful for the Silver Key award.

            “When I got the email that awards had been given, I set it aside until later that day because I did not expect anything,” Zhou said. “When I checked and found out that I had been awarded a silver key, I was shocked. My main reaction was along the lines of, ‘No way!’ It felt really rewarding to be recognized for my art.”

            Superintendent Nelson commended Sophie for her achievement, emphasizing the dedication and creativity required to stand out in such a competitive field.

            “Sophie’s recognition in the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards is a reflection of her talent, hard work, and passion for artistic expression,” Superintendent Nelson said. “We are incredibly proud of her for earning this honor, and we celebrate the creativity she brings to our school community.”

            Principal Coellner also praised Sophie’s accomplishment and the importance of artistic opportunities for students.

            “Sophie’s artwork demonstrates both technical skill and a unique artistic voice, and we are thrilled to see her talent recognized at such a high level,” Principal Coellner said. “The arts play a vital role in education, fostering creativity and self-expression, and we are proud to support our students as they pursue their passions.”

            Sophie and other Silver Key recipients from across the state have been invited to an awards ceremony at Cohen Auditorium on the Tufts Medford Campus on Sunday, March 16.

            For more information about the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards and to see the full list of winners, visit the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards of Massachusetts website.

Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Draft Discussion

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            The Marion Finance Committee met on February 20 to go over a draft of the Fiscal Year 2026 budget. Chairman Shay Assad began the meeting by welcoming Town Administrator Geoff Gorman and Finance Director Heather O’Brien. Following the approval of the previous meeting’s minutes, discussions were underway on next year’s budget.

            Gorman presented the budget draft via PowerPoint, with all members having a physical copy that had been sent to them electronically approximately three weeks prior. In order to formulate the draft and a plan going forward, Gorman explained each city department had received a request for a “level service budget.” This shows the department’s current ability to support services. Any additional requests that would inflate a department’s budget are saved until after the budget is balanced.

            For his executive summary, Gorman also explained for FY25 that three new employee contracts have been completed, the Harbormaster Department reorganization has been implemented following the opening of the new Maritime Center, and providing retention support to various areas.

            Increases in non-discretionary expenses are driving an increase to the budget. Inflation has played a significant role, with wages as well as the “general cost of doing business.” General Insurance is up 5% to 8% with increases in flood insurance cited. Health insurance is up significantly, with estimates of 8% to 20% rises depending on area. Schools have also requested more, outside of revenue growth, Sippican Elementary School (8%), Old Rochester Regional (7%), and Upper Cape Tech (11%).

            Revenue growth is currently estimated at $698,976, which is 10% lower than FY25. This is not to say revenue isn’t growing, but at a slower rate than previously observed. Free cash currently sits around $3,000,000 with Town House renovations, Route 6’s watermain, and other local infrastructure projects contributing to the largest unknown that will affect said free cash.

            After questioning, Gorman stated that the Massachusetts’ Department of Revenue wants towns and cities “to have free cash as part of fiscal responsibility. They arrange between 5% and 7% [on average]. We are above that 7%.” He also added the town wants to find a way to lower the amount under 7%, though too much cannot be used to offset actual budget, as in used for one-time purchases. For grants, funds exceed $5,000,000.

            For increases in expenses, police reform was stated first with increases in responsibilities and benefits, the aforementioned Harbormaster reorganization, and the success of recruitment, retention, and promotion. Education currently takes up 46% of the budget. Curbside garbage collection was brought up, with the SEMASS and Curbside collection contracts coming up for bid next year. There has been an estimated 5% increase for contract renewal.

            For budget growth, overall, there was a $1,668,446 (5.8%) increase, with 3.6% growth on average over the last five years.

            Following the Town Administrator’s Executive Summary, Finance Director Heather O’Brien began her discussion on projected revenue. O’Brien told the committee that 79% of the town’s budget comes from property taxes, while local receipts (vehicle, license, and permits) account for 7%; 5% comes from state aid and other transfers, and approximately 4% in free cash.

            It was discussed and argued by committee members that the current tax rate determined by the Select Board is too high, given the town’s 11% to 15% free cash. That or capital expenses are being underbudgeted, they argued. While the town is using this excess capital for popular capital expenditures, Assad suggested it may be prudent to reexamine the revenue streams. He also said the cushion of the funds protects against natural disasters or unforeseen alterations to the budget. A lengthy discussion on this followed, with disagreements on how much free cash would be needed to ward off budget concerns should another “snowmageddon” occur.

            O’Brien continued with a breakdown on the FY26 preliminary budget summary. The total town budget is $30,506,157. Below is the breakdown.

            Schools/Education – $14,345,553 (47.03%)

            Public Safety – $4,738,802 (15.53%)

            Pension & Insurance – $4,591,917 (15.05%)

            General Government – $2,761,040 (9.05%)

            Public Works – $2,493,943 (8.18%)

            General Fund Debt Service – $695,665 (2.28%)

            Human Services – $479,798 (1.57%)

            Culture & Recreation – $399,433 (1.31%)

            Current variance between revenue and expenses sits at around $757,000, though the Finance director again stated they are looking for ways to close the gap.

            The Finance director, town administrator and Finance Committee all agreed there is much work and discussion left to be done.

            The next meeting of the Marion Finance Committee was scheduled for Wednesday, February 26, at 7:00 pm in the Marion Town House’s conference room.

Marion Finance Committee

By Sam Bishop

NBSO Presents Yaniv Plays Beethoven

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On Friday, March 14, and again on Saturday, March 15, the New Bedford Symphony Orchestra presents “Yaniv Plays Beethoven” in the Fireman Center for Performing Arts at Tabor Academy in Marion. This intimate and comfortable venue, with beer and wine available for purchase, sets the mood for a great night of music.

            Something soothing, something delightful, something dramatic – that is what we have for you with Beethoven’s “Piano Concerto No. 3,” performed and conducted by your favorite musical multitasker, Yaniv Dinur. This piece takes you to a very good place – we guarantee it.

            And then you will be treated to brassy marches and sweet melodies in Adolphus Hailstork’s “Symphony No. 3.” Hailstork is considered the dean of black American composers for good reason – he draws on the richness of all American musical traditions to create masterpieces that speak to us today.

            “Yaniv Plays Beethoven” will take place on Friday, March 14, and Saturday, March 15, 7:30 pm in The Fireman Center for Performing Arts (Hoyt Hall) at Tabor Academy, Marion.

            Tickets are general admission at $39, with $10 student tickets (available at the box office only with student ID). Purchase tickets through the Z box office, 508-994-2900, or online at nbsymphony.org. Convenient and free parking is available in the lots near the entrance to the auditorium.

            All are welcome to the free open rehearsal in the auditorium on Thursday, March 13, 4:00 pm to 6:30 pm. Seating is general admission, and no tickets or RSVP are required. Please note that this is a working rehearsal, and pieces may not be played in their entirety. A 20-minute break usually occurs between 5:00 pm and 5:30 pm. Come and go as you please.

            The NBSO is a professional orchestra that annually presents a concert series of classical and pops music with internationally acclaimed guest artists, as well as an outstanding chamber music series. In addition, the NBSO’s innovative and nationally recognized educational programs reach more than 8,000 students each year. The NBSO is dedicated to building a community of music in the South Coast. Visit www.nbsymphony.org today and find your serenity at the symphony.

From the Files of the Rochester Historical Society

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Before the advent of shopping malls, the internet and other modern inventions on which we spend our time, the people of Rochester have belonged to a variety of organizations some of which are still with us today. Growing up in Rochester, my mother belonged to Girl Scouts (briefly), 4H and also spent a lot of time at the Grange.

            When it became time for my sister and me to sign onto an organization, my mother chose Camp Fire Girls, which were very active in Weymouth (where we lived) and the surrounding area. She liked this group because their organizational plan called for small groups of six to 10 girls meeting with their leader in her home.

            My mother was the leader of my group as we moved through Bluebirds, Camp Fire and, in our teens, Horizon. In the process, after Bluebirds, we earned beads much like Boy Scouts earned badges. These beads were sewn first to a vest and then to the Horizon Club Native American style ceremonial dress. We stayed with the organization until moving to western Massachusetts in my mid-teens. During those years, we also attended day camp where we learned to swim, row a boat and paddle a canoe among many other nature-related things.

            This all leads us to a framed charter found in our museum and part of the current exhibit. It is for the Segwum Camp Fire Girls of Rochester, Massachusetts. I was surprised that my mother never mentioned a Rochester connection to Camp Fire. However, researching this piece, it is possible that this group was before her time. The charter refers to joining the circle of sisterhood which could lead to a healthy life in touch with nature, “the soul of beauty and the heart of truth”. All this is written in an old- fashioned style.

            Camp Fire as it’s known today (after being called Camp Fire Girls of America and then Camp Fire USA) was incorporated in 1912 in Washington, DC. In a short time, the organization numbered 60,000 girls. During World War I, those girls sold over one million Liberty Bonds and 900,000 Thrift Stamps to support the war effort.

            Camp Fire is considered to be the first non-sectarian multicultural organization for girls in America. By 1975, it also became gender inclusive. Throughout its history, respect for nature and the environment has been its central theme. Even today the influence of Native Americans inspires ceremonial activities, clothing and camp and council names.

            Nancy Drew, Hardy Boys, Bobbsey Twins books and Archie’s Comics have featured Camp Fire girls. Some Camp Fire girls who have become well known in different fields are Shirley Temple, Beverly Cleary, Savannah Guthrie, Janis Joplin, Gladys Knight and Madonna.

By Connie Eshbach

Mattapoisett Library

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March into the Mattapoisett Library at 7 Barstow Street like a lion and leave like a lamb this month.

            The Teen Advisory Board (TAB) meeting scheduled for Tuesday, March 4, at 6:00 pm has been postponed. However, interested teens can contact Amanda Lawrence at alawrence@sailsinc.org for information on future meetings. TAB is intended for students between ages 12 and 18 who seek a leadership role in the library. New members are welcome.

            Join Pop Up Art School on Tuesday, March 11, at 3:30 pm to create charming toadstools using wool and a barbed needle on felt stretched over an embroidery hoop. Pop Up Art School will guide patrons through the basics of needle felting wool. This event is recommended for ages 11 and up. Space is limited, and registration is required. See our website for more information.

            The next meeting of the Friends of the Mattapoisett Library is Wednesday, March 12, at 6:00 pm. All are welcome to attend. A Zoom link to the meeting is available upon request. If you have any questions, please contact the library at mfpl@sailsinc.org. We can pass along your message to the Friends.

            The Sunday Book Club meets on March 16 at 2:00 pm to discuss Emily Franklin’s “The Lioness of Boston.” Copies of the book are available at the library. This club is intended for adults. If you have questions, contact Librarian Robbin Smith at rsmith@sailsinc.org.

            Our next Cookbook Club meeting, scheduled for Tuesday, March 18, at 6:30 pm, has been postponed. While away, copies of Caroline Chambers’ “What to Cook When You Don’t Feel Like Cooking” are available for checkout. Interested patrons can contact Amanda Lawrence at alawrence@sailsinc.org with any questions. New members are always welcome.

            Stop by the library on Saturday, March 22, at 2:00 pm to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, Celtic culture, and the impending arrival of spring with a lively participatory program by Parents’ Choice Award-winning singer and storyteller Davis Bates. No registration needed; recommended for ages six and up.

            Alanna Nelson will be in the Marine Room on Tuesday, March 25, at 6:00 pm for the next Sippizine writing group. Bring your favorite writing accessories (e.g., paper, pen, computer) and get ready for the spark as ideas pop up in this creative writing session. No registration required.

            Join us on Wednesday, March 26, at 6:00 pm for a local author talk with Chris Mader, who will discuss his new book, “Make the Adjustment.” More than just a catchphrase, “make the adjustment” is Chris’s compass for life. No registration necessary.

            Well-Read Wednesday meets on the Fourth Wednesday of every month. The next meeting is on Wednesday, March 26, at 6:30 pm in the Marine room. The club will discuss “Small Acts of Courage by Ali Velshi. Copies of the book are available for pickup at the library. New members welcome.

            The Friends of the Mattapoisett Library are excited to announce that they’re now accepting jewelry donations until further notice. If you have gently used or unworn jewelry or accessories you’d like to donate, The Friends would love to take them off your hands. Please drop these items off at the circulation desk. Thank you. Your contributions are appreciated and will help support future library events.

            As always, these events and activities are free and accessible to all. Visit our website for more information and updates. If you have any questions, please email mfpl@sailsinc.org or call us at 508-758-4171.

Mattapoisett Yacht Club

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MYC Spring calendar is taking shape and here are some dates to mark on your calendar:

April 11 – MYC Spring Fling Social. 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm at The Inn at Shipyard Park.

May 31 – MYC Race Committee Seminar and Skippers Meeting at MYC clubhouse, 5:00 pm.

June 3 – First Tuesday Night Ensign Race.

June 4 – First Wednesday Night PHRF Race.

June 6 – MYC Clubhouse Grand Opening Party 5:00 pm.

June 7 – MYC Spring Round The Bay Race.

June 28 – MYC Bassett Island Cruise and Social (power & sail) Day Event.

            Details for all events are upcoming.

            Clubhouse News: Work continues, we now have freshly painted walls. New flooring, furniture purchases, a bar area, lighting, and heat/cooling all taking shape.

            MYC Storefront: Buy all your swag at our new online store. Shirts, jackets, rain gear, hats and more all with a variety of colors to choose from. Personalized boat names and logos. All apparel is purchased through Coral Reef Sailing and found on our website under Merchandise. MYC burgees are now for sale for members only for $35. Burgees will be available at the clubhouse.

            Clubhouse Boat Pictures: Members, got a favorite picture of your boat? Our new clubhouse walls would love to show it off. Send a copy to our in-house photographer and Vice Commodore Fran Grenon @spectrumphotofg@aol.com.

            Membership is now open online. Join in the fun.

 www.mattapoisettyc.org. / membership page.

Wende L. Ouellette

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Wende L. Ouellette, 52, of West Wareham passed away Monday February 24, 2025 after a long illness.

            She was the loving wife of James Ouellette, Jr. of West Wareham and daughter of Beverly J. Chappell and the late David F. Pontes.

            A 1990 graduate of Taunton High School. Wende was the mother of James Ouellette, III, of W. Wareham. Daughter in-law of James and Linda Ouellette of W. Wareham and sister in-law of Regina & Christopher Hammond of Rochester. Aunt of Ryan Hammond of Rochester She was also survived by her fur babies Lilly & Shadow and many loving relatives and friends. She was the sister of the late Jason D. Pontes.

            Services will be private at this time. To leave a message of condolence for the family please visit www.warehamvillagefuneralhome.com

            A Go Fund Me has been setup to assist Jim with her burial and medical expenses. https://gofund.me/c63a373b