BBAHFH Seeking Wheelchair Ramps

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Buzzards Bay Area Habitat for Humanity (BBAHFH) is seeking metal wheelchair ramp donations for their Ramp Donation Program. According to Executive Director Christine Lacourse, “When we first started our Ramp Donation program last year, we were not sure what the need for ramps would be here on the South Coast. Turns out it is huge. There are so many people that need wheelchair ramps but cannot afford them, so they go without and live in unsafe conditions. Our Ramp Donation program is transforming people’s lives who need our help.”

            BBAHFH has installed nineteen ramps to date this year for elderly and disabled individuals. “We have spoken to several people who have not left their home for a year or more because they could not get down their outdoor stairs,” explained Lacourse. “Some could only leave if the police or firefighters could come carry them down the stairs. There were times they missed important meetings or medical appointments because they literally could not leave their home. What a difference a ramp can make for an individual and their family.”

            Ramp recipients have ranged in age from 17 to 95 years old. As one recipient’s daughter enthused after her 72-year-old father got a ramp, “He can now get safely in and out of the house without falling down the stairs or someone having to go over to help him. He has so much more quality of life. He can sit outside on the front bench or the lawn, instead of being stuck inside and getting depressed. We’ve noticed a huge difference in his attitude.” According to the daughter of another ramp recipient, “It is so very helpful to have a ramp, and now we can get our father to dialysis. It has been so beneficial, and we are so very thankful.”

            BBAHFH formally introduced the Ramp Donation program last year giving low-income homeowners the accessibility they need to remain safe in their homes. 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 with hopes of returning home.

            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. BBAHFH is running this program throughout Acushnet, Dartmouth, Fairhaven, Marion, Mattapoisett, New Bedford, Rochester, Wareham, and Westport, and ramps are installed at no cost for families. This project is funded in part by grants from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, and the Executive Office of Aging & Independence and Coastline Elderly Services, the Area Agency on Aging, through Federal Title-III funds.

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

            For more information on BBAHFH’s Ramp Donation program, contact BuzzardsBayAreaHabitat@yahoo.com, or call 508-758-4517. Tax-deductible donations to support the program may be made at www.BuzzardsBayHabitat.org or by sending a check to BBAHFH, P.O. Box 1584, Mattapoisett, MA 02739.

Unified Hoop Holds off Somerset

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            Old Rochester’s unified basketball team played at Somerset Berkley on October 20 and won 55-54. Michael Hogan earned player of the game, as he was the game’s leading scorer and sealed the victory with a game-winning layup off a clutch steal and assist from Ben Wesoly. Moments before, Hayden Perry hit a huge three-pointer set up by Wesoly to cut the deficit to one with 40 seconds remaining.

            “Though we lost our first-half lead, we never lost our fight. From start to finish, every player gave their all and played for one another through physicality and adversity. It was a true team win,” said ORR Head Coach Emma Fenton.

            The Bulldogs were scheduled to host their Senior Night against Bourne on Wednesday.

Girls Volleyball

            The Bulldogs hosted Joseph Case (16-2) on October 23, and won 3-0 by set scores of 25-7, 25-16, and 25-23. Case defeated Old Rochester the day before, as the Cardinals are currently the Number 3 seed in Division 3 with ORR currently seeded fifth in the same bracket for the upcoming state tournament. In the match, Molly Franco led the Bulldogs with 11 kills, 12 digs, 11 service points, and 3 aces, while Aubrey Griffith had 17 service points and 5 aces – both shared player-of-the-match recognition.

            “Strong leadership by the seniors and captains led the Bulldogs to victory,” said ORR Head Coach James Oliveira.

            The Bulldogs finished the regular season on Wednesday at Barnstable.

Football

            Old Rochester played at Dighton-Rehoboth (3-4) on October 24, and won 42-6. The Bulldogs have won three consecutive games after starting the season 0-4. Benji Baptiste was named the player of the game, scoring two touchdowns. Their next game will be played on Thursday, October 30, against St. Mary’s of Lynn. Kickoff is scheduled for 6:00 pm at David S. Hagen Stadium on the ORR campus.

Sports Roundup

By Aiden Comorosky

Solar Projects All Around

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            An informal discussion of another proposed solar project in town started Rochester’s Planning Board meeting Tuesday.

            Project representative Sarah Sterns of Beals and Thomas Engineering reported the plan is for two ground-mounted solar arrays at 0 High Street with frontage off of both High Street and Mayflower Lane. The discovery of a box turtle habitat in the area has changed the developer’s original plan, she said, placing a permanent conservation restriction on some of the land. The developer shrunk the size of the arrays for that reason. “We are here to go over the project before we submit our formal application,” she said.

            Project attorney Greg Sampson added that the multiple lots being combined for this project are under different ownerships complicating what appropriate frontages the project will have. Chair Arnold Johnson responded that this factor is his main concern. He said the lots required for this project should be combined first. “Your project spans multiple lots with multiple owners. Meets and bounds will have be determined, and that will be costly. It would be better if you had it one lot. Some lots would be land-locked. You’ve got a lot of work to do.” Sampson and Sterns agreed to incorporate this suggestion they work to file a formal application.

            Next, after months of continued hearings on the project, the board came closer than ever to approving the Site Plan Review and Special Permit for plans for a floating and ground-mounted solar array at 53 Dexter Lane. The panel endorsed the list of permit waivers being requested. It agreed to draft a decision. It continued the hearing to the board’s next meeting and extended the project’s decision deadline to the end of December.

            Before the continuation vote, Member Ben Bailey recommended the unique permit condition that it be immediately reported if any waterfowl is found to be injured by the panels. He said birds will dive toward the dark panels mistaking them for water, what he called the project’s “lake effect,” maiming or killing them. He would vote against the project for that reason. Technical Consultant Matt Swanberg argued the “lake effect’ only happens at desert solar arrays, where the panels contrast with the sand of the terrain. The Dexter Lane arrays will cover only 25-percent of the water surface, and the panels will have an anti-glare paint coating. Nonetheless, Johnson agreed to add Bailey’s condition to the draft decision.

            In other action, the board continued to its next meeting its hearing on the Site Plan Review application filed by Afonso Built Home for a Townhouse development within Rochester Crossroads after a brief discussion with project representative Philip Cordeiro, on what final comments the board may have before the approval vote. The plan here is for a total of 15 buildings and a total of 44 units in a series of three-unit and two-unit buildings, with a drive-under garage and driveway parking spots.

            The board continued to its next meeting the Site Plan Review hearing for a 68-unit age 55 and over senior living apartment building proposed for 22 Cranberry Highway within Rochester Crossroads.

            The board also again continued until its next meeting the Special Permit and Site Plan Review hearing for the proposal from Logging Swamp Solar dba ReWild Renewables to install a solar panel array on 49 acres in the area of 600 Snipatuit Road, and it extended the project’s decision deadline to November 30.

            The Rochester Planning Board’s next meeting will be Tuesday, November 10 at 7:00 pm in Town Hall, 1 Constitution Way.

Rochester Planning Board

By Michael J. DeCicco

Time to Say Goodbye to Benadryl?

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            Diphenhydramine, commonly known by the brand name Benadryl, has been sold since 1946. It is an “antihistamine,” meaning it blocks the body’s receptors for the chemical histamine, which is released in response to allergens.

            Diphenhydramine works very well to lessen allergy symptoms and is used not only as the sole ingredient in Benadryl but as all or part of the makeup of some 300 mostly over-the-counter medicines.

            Diphenhydramine crosses into the brain and makes us drowsy. This “side effect” has caused it to become a widely used sleeping aid. Most OTC sleep aids have diphenhydramine (or doxylamine, a very similar product) as their active ingredient.

            The problem with using these older antihistamines for allergy relief is that they are sedating and may make users too drowsy to safely drive or do other tasks requiring attention. They can be especially problematic for older adults and have been linked to falls and auto accidents. Regular use has also been linked to risk of dementia.

            They can also be a problem with small children, causing extreme sedation and even coma. Also, oddly enough, in some children they have a paradoxical effect of causing agitation.

            For allergy relief three newer antihistamines are available: loratadine (Claritin), cetirizine (Zyrtec) and fexofenadine (Allegra). These do not get into the brain and are much less likely to be sedating.

            How about for sleep?

            For very occasional use, diphenhydramine and other older antihistamines are probably OK. Like most sleeping pills, the sleep induced by antihistamines is not natural, with little REM sleep, and the sedation can linger well into the next day. It is not dissimilar to the sleep you get after drinking too much alcohol.

            Better choices are melatonin or chamomile, which work immediately, or magnesium, which must be taken regularly and build up in your system. If you find yourself using an antihistamine to sleep more than 2-3 times a month, ask your doctor about alternatives.

            So, yes, it is probably time to say adios to diphenhydramine, doxylamine and all the older antihistamines. Be sure to read the labels on OTC products before you buy them.

            Edward Hoffer MD is Associate Professor of Medicine, part-time, at Harvard.

What Does The Doctor Say?

By Dr. Edward Hoffer

The Nemasket Group

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The Nemasket Group is proud to announce its 40th Anniversary Celebration and Grand Reopening Ceremony, to be held on Tuesday, November 4 from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm at its main location: 107 Fairhaven Road, Mattapoisett.

            For four decades, The Nemasket Group has been a cornerstone of support and advocacy for individuals with disabilities and their families throughout the Greater New Bedford area and beyond. This milestone event will honor the organization’s rich history and unveil exciting new developments, including the renovated day services site and a brand-new community space designed to foster inclusion, engagement, and growth.

            Highlights of the event include:

            Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at 2:30 pm, guided tours of the newly renovated space, a special “History of The Nemasket Group” exhibit, and the official launch of our new 3-Year Strategic Plan, outlining a bold and inclusive vision for the future.

            Executive Director Jenny Duval shared her enthusiasm:

            “This celebration is not just about looking back—it’s about moving forward. We’re thrilled to unveil a space that reflects our values and our commitment to person-centered supports. Our new strategic plan will guide us in expanding opportunities, deepening community connections, and continuing to elevate the voices of those we serve.”

            The Nemasket Group invites community members, partners, families, and friends to join in this celebration of legacy, progress, and possibility.

Church Mouse Thrift Shop First Anniversary

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Rev. Jude Thaddeus Osunkwo, pastor of St. Isidore parish, is happy to announce this anniversary with a special thank-you to the many people who have so generously supported us this past year including our patrons and donors and our dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers who strive to make this budget friendly shopping experience a delight.

            You are invited to join us to celebrate during the month of November on Saturdays from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. Be sure and stop by often to view our Thanksgiving and Christmas offerings. Gift Certificates will be available for your shopping needs. Cash only please.

Come and find your treasures in our year-round Christmas shop, clothing shop with many high-end men’s and women’s designer labels. Our children’s clothing section, books and toys, kitchen wares and pet section complete our offerings.

            Donations of your new and gently used fall and winter clothing are welcome during shop hours. We accept small household and kitchen items, books, games and children’s items.

            We do not accept electronics, broken items, torn or stained clothes or large furniture items.

            Follow us on Facebook. We accept Cash Only. Hours: Saturdays from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm year-round. Location: 282 Vaughan Hill Rd. Rochester, MA 02770

Teen Advisory Board Pizza Party at the Mattapoisett Library

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he Mattapoisett Library invites students in grades 9-12 to join us for a Teen Advisory Board Pizza Party on Tuesday, November 4, at 6:00 pm. This event promises delicious pizza and the opportunity to have a powerful impact on your community.

            Our Teen Advisory Board (TAB) plays a key role in shaping the library’s programs, services, and resources to meet the needs and interests of young adults. In short, TAB is where student voices shape what happens here – from events and book recommendations to summer reading and more. This pizza party is an excellent opportunity to join a vibrant group, share your ideas, and make a positive impact on your community. The meeting is more than just food and fun – it’s your chance to take part in exciting library projects and build lifelong friendships with others who share your love for learning and community service.

            Teen Advisory Board members can also earn: volunteer hours for their service, valuable work experience, and recommendation letters, if they serve an appropriate amount of time. Mark your calendars and bring your ideas. No registration is required. If you have any questions, contact Amanda Lawrence at alawrence@sailsinc.org or by calling the library.

Light Duty Night for Select Board

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            The Mattapoisett Select Board met on October 28 in regular session. However, with a light agenda before them, they sailed through the meeting.

            The board discussed the changes to the position of Animal Control Officer that will now come under the leadership of the Police Department. It was explained that changes at the state level precipitated a move to have animal control duties aligned with the Police Department. The board said that interviewing for a new 40-hour position may include the services of an outside agency.

            The board also discussed the upcoming Old Colony Regional Technical High School presentations that will showcase the schools plans for a new school built on the existing site and funded through local towns who are in partnership with the school and the Massachusetts School Building Authority. There will be a ballot question on this matter in Mattapoisett on November 18.

            “November 18 between the hours of 12:00 pm and 8:00 pm our Old Colony member communities will be asked to vote on the proposed construction of a new Old Colony Regional Vocational Technical High School.”

            There are several dates and locations for the presentations. They are November 2, 11:00 am at Old Colony, November 5 at 6:40 pm at the Machacam Club in Mattapoisett, and November 6 at 6:00 pm in the Carver Police Station. Visit www.oldcolonybuildingproject.com for more details.

            It was announced that Veterans Day observances will take place on November 11 at 10:45 am in Center School.

            The Mattapoisett Police annual Halloween costume contest will begin with a parade from Center School stepping off on October 31 at 6:00 pm to Shipyard Park with contest to follow at 6:45 pm.

            A public hearing was held with Eversource to discuss the need and plans for the installation of a new pole on Mattapoisett Neck Road to provide better service to the area. All were in agreement that the pole was needed.

            Action items included acceptance of the resignation of Tyler Hathaway from the Conservation Commission. The board also appointed Ella McIntire to the Conservation Commission. Patrica Cooper was appointed to the Cultural Council.

            Town Administrator Mike Lorenco said that an unclaimed money list is available on the town’s website. He said overpayments were likely the majority of the sums waiting to be claimed.

            Lorenco also announced that the Department of Transportation will hold a public meeting on December 24 on the 25-percent design of the TIP project for Mattapoisett village street upgrades and repair. A draft of the proposed design is available on the town’s website.

            Last but not least, water flushing will be performed between November 3 and November 21. Check the town’s website for details regarding your neighborhood.

            The next meeting of the Mattapoisett Select Board is scheduled for Thursday, October 30 at 6:00 pm in the Mattapoisett Fire Station.

Mattapoisett Select Board

By Marilou Newell

Fall’s Orange Icon

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            When a colleague requested donations of pinecones and acorns to support his wife’s crafts, I got busy outside collecting pinecones. These sticky wonders are among my favorite ornaments made by nature. Still, fall would not be complete without – acorns, complete with their little beanies; kaleidoscopic Indian corn; smooth, shiny chestnuts so cool to the touch; and pungent haystacks… and the one that tops all for festive fall curiosities: the pumpkin.

            As I rode my bike around the village this past weekend, I noticed that they prevail. All of a sudden, they are everywhere, coloring the town orange, scattered like rogue soccer balls, or like some strange mutation invasion.

            I liken them to nature’s clowns – turned into playthings to be gawked at either for their size, shape or the art into which people turn them. I got mine the other day, feeling like a Halloween without a proper pumpkin is like an autumn without the crunch of leaves. As I left Rochester’s Cervelli’s stand (where every conceivable size and shape of pumpkin awaits), I watched as families were positioning their kiddies in front of a gigantic gory Halloween display replete with pumpkins. Ahh, fond memories flash through my mind of that excitement of the approach of Halloween.

            In keeping with tradition this week, I will carve my purchase into a grinning jack-o-lantern – bumps and all. And yes, of course I’ll roast the seeds!

            If you are a New Englander, there is something poetic about these squat orange squashes against the backdrop of fall foliage. They add vitality to the festivities that we celebrate – even if it’s just handing out candy to trick-or-treaters. In some cases, they feed the imagination. At age 4 our son Ian had a standard knock-knock joke that must have sprouted from seeing these sentinels. When we’d ask, “Who’s there?” he’d answer “Pumpkinhead,” and laugh hysterically.

            For my British-bred husband, the total Halloween experience was hollowing out a turnip – they didn’t have pumpkins! They would carve a face and put a stub of candle inside and carry it around the streets. No trick or treat (back then)… the first time he knew how that worked he saw it on the television show The Addams Family. The practice did eventually catch on in the U.K. and now it’s much about the candy and dressing up. I will have to ask my sister-in-law if Brits dress up their pets as many do here.

            Fabulous legends surround the origin of the jack-o’-lantern. Some say that the flickering flame placed inside represents mischievous spirits or tricksters or creatures of ancient lore. And if a candle flame flickers on Halloween night, it’s being touched by ghosts. The practice of carving scary faces began as a way to frighten the spirits away. Of course, such fantasies diminish with the daylight.

            One of the amazing things about pumpkins is their diversity – shape, size and color are all factors in the selection process. Perfectionists will advise you to examine the roundness, the way it sits and the stem’s viability. Hue is important, as is the absence of dents. I personally like a pumpkin with oddities – green veins and a little tilt give a jack-o’-lantern a more lifelike disposition. If you watch a child choose one, there is seemingly no science involved. They bond, and it’s a done deal.

            We don’t always carve our pumpkins right away – but use them to decorate our lamppost beside a stand of corn stalks. In prior years to please my kids, I would fashion a scare crow as part of the scene. Sometimes it would be disconcerting as it looked human. Now I keep it simple, wrapping the decor around the orange globe – a metaphor for seasonal magic (think Cinderella) and a bit of hobgoblin fun.

            “The yellow pumpkins lying beneath them, turning up their fair round bellies to the sun, and giving ample prospects of the most luxurious of pies.” – Washington Irving, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow

The Coastal Gardener

By Laura McLean

Rochester Historical Museum Hours

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The Rochester Historical Society Museum at 355 County Rd. will be open from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm on Sundays throughout the Fall, so that interested people can view our exhibit: “The Tools and Industries That Made Rochester”. We also have fresh cranberries for sale and are always happy to open by appointment. It’s a good idea to double check with Sue 508-295-8908 or Connie 617-750-2818 to make sure we have docents available.