Holiday By The Sea House Tour Fast Approaching

Historic Handy’s Tavern is getting its final holiday touches this week in preparation for the 35th Annual Holiday By The Sea House Tour, taking place Saturday, December 13. The Sippican Woman’s Club invites the community to step into the magic of the season as ticketholders begin their tour at the Tavern before setting off to visit beautifully decorated homes, a Sugarplum Tea at Tabor Academy and warm cheer at Beverly Yacht Club.

            We also welcome everyone to join us during the Marion Village Stroll on Sunday December 14, when Handy’s Tavern will once again open its doors for visitors to explore this treasured landmark and enjoy warm, spiced Wassail served with holiday cheer.

            Come celebrate the season, the spirit of community, and the historic charm that makes Marion so special. For more information or tickets please visit SippicanWomansClub.org.

Priscilla Stuart Smith-Trudeau Hevey

Priscilla Stuart Smith-Trudeau Hevey, 77 of Fletcher, Vermont passed away suddenly on October 23, 2025 with the love of her life, Gerard Hevey, at her side.

            Born August 26, 1948 in Boston, MA she was the daughter of the late Henry Buckley Smith, Sr. and Annie Payson Provance Smith and the sister of the late Henry Buckley Smith, Jr. all of Rochester, MA.

            In addition to her husband, she is survived by her daughter, Lisa McDaniel, of Arizona, her sister, Anne Payson Smith Holbrook, two nephews, James Payson Smith Holbrook and his wife Sarah Lafrinere Holbrook all of Rochester, MA and Matthew Christopher Smith of Wareham, MA.  As well as three grand-nieces Stella V. Holbrook, Charlotte A. Holbrook, and Sloane L. Holbrook and a grand-nephew James Payson Smith Holbrook, Jr all of Rochester, MA.

            As a child Priscilla grew up in Rochester, MA and attended Rochester Memorial School and the Old Rochester Regional High School. She is remembered by her classmates as happy and fun loving. She graduated in 1966 and went on to obtain her LPN and RN Certifications.

            Priscilla and Gerard met while working on a nursing unit on the south coast of Massachusetts in 1989 and subsequently move to Vermont. They were married in Fletcher, Vermont on 23 August 2005. Together they built a life based on helping people in need and helping to improve their lives. As animal lovers they adopted and cared for many pets through the years that brought daily joy into their lives. She loved living on top of her mountain in Vermont and taking advantage of all the area had to offer, especially hiking the trails with her husband and enjoying nature.

            She was employed at the University of Vermont Medical Center as a Rehabilitation Nurse in Burlington, Vermont. She retired in 2023.

            Priscilla started her career as an LPN in the 1960’s and through the years attained the degrees of RN DC MSM BSN CRRN CCM HNB-BC. She was a graduate of Thomas Edison State College with a Masters in Management and Leadership and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of the State of New York. Her certifications included a Certification in Rehabilitation Nursing, a Certification in Holistic Nursing and a Certification in Conflict Resolution.

            She was a Founder of the Women’s Rape Crisis Center in New Bedford, MA which was a precursor of the Women’s Center of New Bedford as it is known today. Originally a volunteer organization, it was established in the same year that Roe vs. Wade protected abortion rights. She was instrumental in the development of the Women’s Health Clinic as one of the Center’s premier programs and in 1983 was a vocal advocate for the Big Dan Rape victim traveling the country talking about what happened and what was needed to be done to protect women from abuse. Sadly, fifty years later the fight to prevent abuse is still being waged on a national level.

            In 2001 she published a book “Peaceful Warrior Nurse. She reasoned that there were not “enough books written for nurses, by nurses and about nurses that enlighten, empower and encourage them to celebrate the diversity and spirit of nursing”.  She wrote the book is about “living, loving, learning and leaving a nursing legacy.

            Around the same time, she established her consulting firm “Wealth in Diversity Consulting” of which she was the Founder and President. She developed “A model for Creating and Sustaining Positive Change which acts as a framework for guiding organizational change as a vital resource leading to increased creativity, innovation and enhanced leader and team effectiveness.”

            Her life was dedicated to developing a deep understanding about the strength of differences and an appreciation of shared humanness.

            She will always be remembered by her family as a person who lived her dreams, cared for her grandmother and mother in their later years and encouraged her nephews to “live their dreams”.

            Priscilla should be remembered not only for her love and dedication to nursing but also her love of animals and supporting animal rights groups.

            Arrangements by A.W. Rich funeral home to leave a message of Condolence visit https://awrichfuneralhomes.com/

Joan E. (Grassetti) Lagunowich

Joan E. (Grassetti) Lagunowich, 79, of Mattapoisett, formerly of Longmeadow, MA died November 29, 2025 peacefully at St. Luke’s Hospital surrounded by her loving family.

            She was the beloved wife of Paul G. Lagunowich, with whom she shared 57 years of marriage. Born in Springfield, MA, daughter of the late Venicio and Shirley (Green) Grassetti. She raised her family in Longmeadow, MA before moving to Mattapoisett thirteen years ago.

            She was known by many names-Joan, Joannie, Mom, Grammie, and Auntie Joan. The oldest of Venicio and Shirley’s ten children, she grew up on Bartels Street in a house always filled with laughter, love, and delicious food.

            Joan and Paul met in junior high school, where he was determined to win her heart. They married in 1968 and lived in Longmeadow for 40 years.

            Joan graduated from Springfield Hospital School of Nursing, now Baystate Medical Center. She spent the majority of her nursing career working in Labor and Delivery. Joan cherished helping families welcome their babies into the world and was deeply honored whenever friends or relatives asked her to assist when their own little ones were due.

            Family and especially her grandchildren were the center of Joan’s life. Some of her fondest memories came from large holiday gatherings at Woodlawn Place, where the house overflowed with joy, warmth, and laughter. Ogunquit Beach was her favorite place to relax with family and friends. She loved soaking up the sun and walking the Marginal Way at the “Beautiful Place by the Sea.”

            Though Joan’s passing leaves an ache in the hearts of those she loved, her warmth, generosity, kindness and unwavering love will continue to guide her family. Her legacy lives on in our hearts.

            Joan is survived by her husband Paul; daughter Kate Butler and her husband Todd of Mattapoisett; a son, Nick Lagunowich and his wife Elena of Chatham, NJ; her sister-in-law Jane Grassetti (Joseph Grassetti deceased) of Ludlow and 8 siblings, James Grassetti and his wife Debra of East Longmeadow, Jeffrey Grassetti and his wife Mary of Hampden, John Grassetti and his wife Gail of Mashpee, Jerry Grassetti and his wife Cheryl of East Longmeadow, Jack Vincent Grassetti and his wife Sheila of Longmeadow, Judy LaValle and her husband Gary, of East Longmeadow, Christopher Grassetti and his wife Lisa of Agawam and Charles Grassetti and his wife Ann of Gloucester; and her six grandchildren, Mary Clare, Sally and John Butler, Luke, John and Nicholas Lagunowich; and numerous beloved nieces and nephews. Joan will also miss the company of her brother-in-law John and sister-in-law Ellen Lagunowich, especially enjoying their favorite “Treasure Chest Lobster.”

            Her Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, December 6th at 11:30 am in the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Road (Rt. 6), Mattapoisett. Her family will receive guests on Saturday from 9:30-11:30 am prior to her service. For directions and guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.

            In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in memory of Joan Lagunowich may be made to My Brother’s Keeper, P.O. Box 70273, Dartmouth, MA 02747.

Rochester Historical Society News

The last Sunday that the Museum will be open from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm is the 30th, however, it’s a good idea to call Sue at 508-295-8908 to make sure there’s coverage. After this you can always call Sue or Connie 617-750-2818 to arrange a visit.

            We will be at the Plumb Library Holiday Fundraiser from 10:30 am to 1:00 pm on December 13 with our Rochester clothing and other merchandise, all of which make good Christmas presents. In addition to tees, 3 styles of sweatshirts, hats. books, maps, Rochester tic-tac-toes and a new item, fleece vests.

            On December 14 at 1:30 pm we will have our Holiday Organ Concert and Sing Along as well as our Christmas Party. More info later.

St. Gabriel’s Annual Christmas Fair Returns

St. Gabriel’s Episcopal Church is thrilled to announce the return of its Annual Christmas Fair on Sunday, December 14, running from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Back by popular demand and expanded for 2025, this year’s fair promises to be bigger and better than ever.

            With 25 talented local artisans, visitors will discover a unique selection of handcrafted gifts, holiday décor, artwork, jewelry, specialty foods, and one-of-a-kind treasures – perfect for checking off your Christmas shopping list while supporting small, local businesses.

            The festive fun doesn’t stop there. Guests can enjoy hot breakfast and a delicious homemade lunch, plus an irresistible assortment of baked goods and sweet treats available throughout the day.

            And new this year – bring your family and strike a pose with our very special surprise guest who will be visiting the fair for photos.

            The event also coincides with the town’s beloved Marion Stroll, making St. Gabriel’s a perfect stop as you enjoy a full day of holiday cheer in our community.

            Join us for a joyful, family-friendly celebration of the season – shop, eat, mingle, and support a wonderful local tradition.

4th Annual Davin Food Drive

Young Davin Alves of Marion is once again organizing and executing a fundraiser aimed at supporting local food banks. His annual initiative, now in its fourth year, has not only brought joy to many families during the festive period, but also highlighted the power of youth-led community service and kindness. The first year Davin hosted a fundraiser, he and the program raised a little over $900. The second year, they raised over $3,000, and last year, they raised around $5,800.

            The funds are used to support local food banks and charities. This year United Way of Greater New Bedford and Damien’s Place Food Pantry in Wareham are the recipient groups. Last year, nearly 38 shopping-carts-worth of food were gathered. With surges towards Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefit collections following the recent government shutdown, the demand on local charities is higher than average.

            Kathylee Alves, Davin’s mom, said: “My son Davin came to my husband and I three years ago and asked us if we could help him come up with an idea to help raise money to help those in need over the holiday season because he didn’t want anyone to go without food. Together we came up with an idea for a holiday raffle. We purchase items and/or businesses donate items, which we raffle off by selling tickets. Then we post the raffle live on Facebook.”

            If you would like to learn more about Davin’s food drive and raffle, you can visit Kathylee Alves’ Facebook page: www.facebook.com/kathylee.alves. Donations are in the form of raffle tickets. Items visible on Kathylee’s Facebook page starting December 6 will be raffled off on December 17 at 5:00 pm. One hundred percent of the donations go to the aforementioned charity organizations. Interested sponsors can reach out to Kathylee at 508-951-8272 or brinx1@verizon.net.

Davin Alves’ 2025 Raffle

By Sam Bishop

Robert B. Caldeira

Robert B. Caldeira, 88, of Marion passed away at home on Friday November 28, 2025. He was the husband of Susan A. (Giard) Caldeira.

            Born in New Bedford, the son of the late Celestino and Georgiana Caldeira, he lived in Marion for most of his life.

            Robert, a tireless Teamsters Union advocate, served as a former Trustee of the Teamsters Union Local 59 from 1992 until 2001.

            Robert is survived by his wife Susan; his children, Cheryl A. Caldeira Green, Mark A. Caldeira, and Charlene A. Caldeira; his sister, Sally Lemos; his grandchildren, Joshua Knox and Rachel Caldeira; and three great-grandchildren.

            He was predeceased by his granddaughter, Megan Caldeira and his sister, Patricia Rullison.

            Visiting hours will be on Tuesday December 2nd from 4-7 pm at the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Rd., Route 6, Mattapoisett. His funeral service will be held on Wednesday December 3rd at 10 am at the funeral home with the burial immediately following at Old Landing Cemetery, Marion. For online condolence book, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.

Marion Natural History Museum

Marion Natural History Museum is hosting Marine animals of our coastline, Friday December 12 from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the Marion Natural History Museum, 8 Spring Street, Marion.

            Join Carol “Krill” Carson for an informative presentation on the unique marine wildlife that can be found off the shores of Cape Cod and southeastern Massachusetts. Krill is a marine biologist who has been rescuing and researching marine wildlife in the New England area since 1980. Hear about the humpback whales, gray seals, ocean sunfish, basking sharks, great whites, sea turtles and the other species that come to feed and raise their young in the waters off Cape Cod.

            Krill is the founder and president of New England Coastal Wildlife Alliance (NECWA), an all-volunteer nonprofit based in southeastern MA. “Every Animal Counts” is NECWA’s motto. NECWA responds to any distressed and stranded marine wildlife on our beaches but specializes in marine wildlife that are not taken care of by other organizations in the area. To learn more about NECWA, go to www.necwa.org.

            To register please go to the museum’s website: www.marionmuseum.org. Suggested $10.00 donation to the museum is much appreciated.

ORRHS Celebrates Unified Champion Banner

            Superintendent Michael S. Nelson, Principal Michael Devoll, and Athletic Director Chris Carrig are pleased to share that Old Rochester Regional High School celebrated a significant milestone in its Unified Sports programming this week with a banner unveiling and the annual Tri-Town Police game.

            On Tuesday, November 18, the school community gathered for a Unified Pep Rally where Denise Larrabee, Manager of Inclusive Schools for Special Olympics Massachusetts, formally presented ORRHS with its National Banner. The banner recognizes ORRHS as a National Unified Champion School for meeting Special Olympics’ highest standards for inclusive sports, leadership, and whole-school engagement.

            “ORR is a true leader in the Unified Champion School community, fostering a welcoming and inclusive culture not only through Unified sports, but throughout their clubs, classrooms, and everyday interactions – Bulldog to Bulldog,” Larrabee said. “Being named a National Banner School is an extraordinary and well-deserved honor that reflects the dedication of the students, staff, and the entire school community.”

            The rally included remarks from Special Education Teacher and Unified Coach Emma Fenton, who highlighted how the values of Unified Sports are a part of everyday life at ORRHS.

            “Celebrating our National Banner School recognition with a full-school pep rally was the perfect way to honor this achievement,” said Fenton. “None of this would be possible without the incredible students and staff who take part in our Unified programs and help create such a truly inclusive, welcoming school community. One of the highlights of the afternoon was Traeh Carrington’s speech. His confidence, presence, and pride in representing our Unified community were truly inspiring and set the tone for the entire event.”

            The rally concluded with transition student Aveil Ward leading the entire gym in a loud “WE ARE… OR.” chant.

            Later that afternoon, ORRHS hosted the annual Unified Basketball game against officers from the Marion, Mattapoisett and Rochester Police Departments. This community tradition once again drew a packed crowd and raised more than $4,000 to support ORRHS’ Unified Sports programs.

            The Tri-Town officers trailed at halftime and called upon Superintendent Nelson and Principal Devoll to lend a hand to the police squad. Despite their efforts, ORRHS’ Unified athletes prevailed once again, securing the win and unveiling the newly awarded National Banner.

            “Our fourth annual Police vs. Unified Game was another tremendous success, supported by an ORR community that came out in full force,” Fenton said. “Many of the students who packed the pep rally earlier in the day showed up again that night with posters and cheers in hand. This tradition continues to build positive, comfortable relationships between our students and officers from multiple departments, giving our kids trusted adults they know they can turn to when they need support. We are truly grateful for the generosity of each department, and for their willingness to show up, stretch, and hit the court with us.”

            Superintendent Nelson said the Special Olympics banner reflects who Old Rochester Regional is as a school community.

            “Inclusion, respect and partnership define our school communities in Marion, Mattapoisett and Rochester,” Superintendent Nelson said. “Our Unified athletes, their peer partners and coaches, and our staff show us every day what it means to build a school community where every student is valued. I am so proud of them, and it’s an honor to celebrate this achievement with them.”

            Principal Devoll said ORRHS students have fully embraced Unified programming.

            “Our students are the reason ORRHS has become a leader in inclusive education,” he said. “The energy at the pep rally and the excitement around the basketball game showed just how committed our entire community is to this work. This National Banner is just another example of that commitment.”

            Athletic Director Carrig, who serves as the school’s Special Olympics liaison, said ORRHS’ Unified programming is strong because of the school’s partnerships with local police and Special Olympics Massachusetts.

            “Our Unified Sports program continues to grow because so many people invest in it – from coaches and students to our police partners and families,” he said. “The Tri-Town Police game is one of the best examples of how athletes can bring a community together. We are grateful for their support and thrilled to celebrate this recognition with everyone who helped make it possible.”

            The police departments enjoy the game as much as the students.

            “Our Officers look forward to sharing the court with these incredible student athletes,” said Marion Police Chief Richard B. Nighelli. “The energy in that gymnasium is a testament to the positive culture that the school district continues to build and we are honored to stand with them in fostering both inclusion and community.”

            “Team RPD had an absolutely incredible time at last night’s Unified Basketball Game,” said Rochester Police Chief Michael A. Assad Jr. “The energy, the smiles, and the pure teamwork on that court remind us why community engagement matters so much. These athletes inspire us with their heart and determination, and we’re honored every time we get to cheer them on. We’re already looking forward to the next one.”

            “Unified Sports brings out the best in everyone,” said Mattapoisett Police Chief Jason A. King. “We have a very strong Tri-Town partnership, and it’s a privilege to stand with ORRHS and take part in this tradition that our department values deeply.”

An Early Thanksgiving

This week in Revolutionary War history, let’s check up on what was going on 250 years ago in and around the colonial Province of Massachusetts Bay. Last week, Washington and the Continental Army are struggling with enlistment and re-enlistment. The low morale, low supplies, and lack of confidence over wages are all brewing a potential disaster. Cambridge also received distressing news from Benedict Arnold’s column in Quebec, with the Colonel facing disastrously low supplies and desertion. At that same time further west, Major General Richard Montgomery had just captured Montreal, facing little resistance taking the city. Finally, the famous Knox Expedition began, with the “noble train of artillery” soon heading back to Washington.

            On November 18, 1775, General George Washington’s General Orders for the day initially called for all “Horns of the Bullocks,” or steers, to be kept in order to be used as powder horns. Following this, Washington declares that he and the Massachusetts General Court have made the upcoming Thursday, December 23, a day of thanksgiving. He also hopes to earn the favor of God, saying “he would be pleased graciously to continue, to smile upon our endeavors, to restore peace, preserve our rights, and privileges, to the latest posterity; prosper the American arms, preserve and strengthen the harmony of the United Colonies, and avert the calamities of a civil war.”

            A President George Washington would later sign the National Thanksgiving Proclamation which made Thursday, November 26, 1789, a day of public thanksgiving and also ensuring the last Thursday of November would continue to be celebrated as such.

            On November 19, Washington responds to John Hancock and the Continental Congress’ plan to dispatch men to Nova Scotia to cut off British lines of communication and control. The general wards against such plans, asking “whether this is a time to weaken our lines.” He also mentions his spies have spotted more British battalions from Ireland arriving in Boston, further cautioning against sending some of his troops north. He speaks of Benedict Arnold’s hardships in Canada, saying more troops north would “find it impossible to supply.”

            The next day, Washington hears from Colonel Arnold who informs the general of his successful crossing of the Saint Lawrence, nearing Montgomery and company in Montreal. Nearing Montreal, he informs Washington he asked the city for supplies and clothes. He says, “I have been obliged to send to Montreal for clothing for my people about 650 in the whole, who are almost naked & in want of every necessary.”

            On November 21, the General Orders for the day detail three court martials: one for hoarding supplies and two for abandoning their posts. The General says they should “be punished with fifteen lashes each,” but is pleased at the military court’s ruling, saying “on account of the youth and ignorance of their duty; the court recommend the prisoners for mercy.” The prisoners are pardoned, but the general highlights the rarity of this instance, and as to not inspire others, says “such a crime will not meet with mercy in future.”

            On November 22, Major General Philip Schuyler writes from Fort Ticonderoga, showing a common talking point is the troop movements in Quebec. He references Arnold’s journey north, saying “Whatever may be Colonel Arnold’s fate at Quebec, his merit is very great, in marching such a body of troops, thro’ a country scarcely trodden by human foot.” He is confident in the campaign to Washington, though writings back and forth between him and the other commanders show Quebec is a grueling mission. The temperatures are only dropping.

            The following day, Washington’s General Orders further focus on winter preparations. As many men enlisted at the start of the year with a year-long contract, December 31 would mark their final day. He instructs his commanders to give re-enlisting men a two-month pay allowance. He also shifts some soldiers around, pulling recruiters who have thus far been ineffective and sending them back to general service.

            This also happens to be the general-declared official day of thanksgiving. Considering this was taking place in 1775, it would be about 150 years following the original thanksgiving meal between the Plymouth Pilgrims and Wampanoag with Massasoit over a famous meal. Even in Washington’s time, this encounter would be a fabled and well-regarded founding story, at least by the colonists.

This Week in Revolutionary History

By Sam Bishop