Land Swap Proposal Questioned

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Rochester’s Planning Board began its meeting Tuesday with further review of a proposal to modify the Special Permit and Groundwater Protection District Special Permit for Cushman Road Solar, Cushman Road, a plan to construct additional sub-drainage improvements within the existing driveway off of Robinson Road.

            Board Chair Arnold Johnson explained members have visited the site out of concern over the Hutchins property where utility piping must be properly covered and graded per the property owner’s requests. This was all they had to focus on until “at the last minute” they heard the project managers also wanted to address easement concerns lodged by the neighboring Koczera property owners, Johnson said.

            This led the board to continue the hearing until its next meeting after Johnson said he wanted the Koczeras’ input as to whether they agree with the plan changes. He also asked project engineer Joseph Harrison, who attended the meeting on Zoom, for full-sized plans of all the changes. Johnson said the small size plans he was reviewing were not adequate. “I left my seeing dog home tonight,” he quipped.

            Next, the board approved a plan a land swap between 194 and 198 Burgess Avenue by endorsing the project’s Approval Not Required application. Both properties are owned by members of the Britto family and the plan here is to build a new garage where there is adequate space.

            The Planning Board then voted to recommend the Zoning Bylaw Amendment article on the May 19 Annual Town Meeting warrant that would revise the 40R Smart Growth Development District on Cranberry Highway to add a new Townhouse sub-district and expand the district to encompass an additional parcel after a public hearing on the proposal. Johnson explained two A-form lots outside the district needed to be added to it they may be more viable financing-wise.

            The Board spent the most time on its last agenda. Snipatuit Estates Marc Wilson is proposing a land swap from a permanent open space portion of the development so another house lot can be built there. Wilson’s attorney Robert Pellegrini said he wanted to know from the Planning Board what kind of filing should be done for this request.

            Board members responded with resistance to the idea. Board member John DiMaggio said he didn’t like setting the precedence of changing a ‘permanent’ property to something else. Board member Ben Bailey, attending the meeting on Zoom, said it was a fraud to portray the land being swapped as being worthy or of equal value, as Pelligrini characterized the move. “I am totally opposed to putting another house on Snipatuit Pond and so will the neighbors and town residents,” Bailey said. Johnson instructed Pelligrini to have properties under consideration be marked and flagged so the board can conduct a site visit.

            In other action, the board appointed the new Town Planner, Michaela Shoemaker, as the town’s At-Large SRPEDD commissioner.

            The Rochester Planning Board’s next meeting will be on Tuesday, May 13 at 7:00 pm at Town Hall, 1 Constitution Way.

Rochester Planning Board

By Michael J. DeCicco

Bulldogs on Track toward Successful Season

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The Old Rochester Regional High School boys and girls track-and-field teams hosted Greater New Bedford Voc-Tech on April 17. ORR’s boys won 84-52, and ORR’s girls won 83-53.

            Wesner Archelus and Audrey Thomas were named the runners of the meet. Archelus won the 200 meter race and the 110 meter hurdles. Thomas won the 100 meter and 400 meter races. Both boys and girls teams are 3-0 on the season and will host Somerset Berkley on May 1.

Boys Lacrosse

            The Bulldogs played at Seekonk (3-4) on April 16 and won 17-5. Caleb Bousquet scored 7 goals and had 4 assists, and David Lally scored 4 goals and had 6 assists, as they were named the players of the game. ORR took a 4-2 record into Wednesday’s game at Dighton-Rehoboth (3-2).

Girls Tennis

            Old Rochester is a perfect 3-0 on the season after the Bulldogs won a South Coast Conference showdown, 4-1, against visiting Apponequet (5-2) on April 17. Delaney Chase and Caroline Houdelette were named the players of the match. The Bulldogs took their momentum into Wednesday’s match at undefeated Somerset Berkley (6-0).

Baseball

            Old Rochester played at West Bridgewater (1-4) and won 11-4 on April 16. Ben Wesoly was named the player of the game. The Bulldogs took a 2-3 record into Wednesday’s game Somerset Berkley (4-2).

ORR Sports Roundup

By Aiden Comorosky

ORRHS AP Students Present Research Projects

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Superintendent Michael S. Nelson, Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning Dr. Sharlene Fedorowicz and Principal Michael Devoll are pleased to congratulate this year’s AP Research students at Old Rochester Regional High School, following the completion of the Presentation and Oral Defense component of their research inquiries in the Media Center on Friday, April 11.

            The Presentation and Oral Defense component for the AP Research students was the culmination of a research process that started at the beginning of the school year. The research process involved the selection of a topic of academic inquiry, before empowering the AP Research students to explore preexisting scholarship through a review of literature. The 12 AP Research students then designed and carried out an appropriate and well-defended research method, before analyzing the results in order to address a gap in the existing research.

            “Congratulations to all of this year’s AP Research students, who completed the Presentation and Oral Defense component of their research inquiries,” said Social Studies Teacher Andrew Apperson, who oversaw the student research. “The students have worked hard to reach this immense accomplishment. The students did absolutely amazing work, and they brought forth a wide array of fascinating topics. As always, it was a delight to see it all come together, and I’m tremendously proud of their accomplishments.”

            The Presentation and Oral Defense Panel, a group of teachers who judged the research projects, were treated to AP Research student presentations on the following topics:

To what extent did US Foreign Policy Contribute to Russia’s Decision to Invade Ukraine?

The Effects of Changing the Physical Properties of a Disc Golf Disc.

COVID-19’s Isolation Effects on Infants’ Developmental Levels.

The Impact of AFRICOM on Djibouti.

The Impact of Turbidity on Eelgrass Growth in Buzzards Bay.

The Effect of Digitization on Music Consumers.

Impact of Mental Health Issues on the Lifestyle of a Female Collegiate Athlete.

Child Life Specialists’ Role in the Interdisciplinary Healthcare Team at Hasbro Children’s. Hospital.

Examining the Correlation Between Success and Motivation Levels on Female Irish Dancers 12 to 18 Years Old in the CLRG Irish Dance Organization.

To What Extent are Vocational Education Programs in Correctional Facilities in the South Coast of Massachusetts Effective in Reducing Recidivism?

The Evolution of Anti-Virus Software on Windows.

The Effects of Seasonality on Opioid Abuse Patterns in Southeastern Massachusetts.

            Superintendent Michael S. Nelson, Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning Dr. Sharlene Fedorowicz and Principal Michael Devoll thanked Mr. Apperson for his role guiding AP Research. And they commended the students for exploring these complicated topics with academic rigor, scholarly discipline and sound logic.

            “We’re extremely proud of these students for their achievements on their AP Research projects,” said Principal Devoll. “By taking on this challenge, our AP Research students have gone above and beyond. The experience they’ve gained will serve them well as they continue with their education and engage in scholarly research. Thank you to Mr. Apperson for guiding these students and empowering them to make such scholarly and well-researched presentations.”

            “Congratulations to these students on this impressive achievement,” said Assistant Superintendent Dr. Fedorowicz. “We always want students to be able to learn about things that interest them, and the AP Research program allows them to do just that while also helping them develop valuable skills that can be used down the line, no matter what they pursue after high school. The AP Research program is rigorous and challenging. Completing this program is an indication of the high level of dedication and scholarly discipline.”

            “Kudos to all of our AP Research students for completing their Presentation and Oral Defense,” said Superintendent Nelson. “This AP Research program enables our students to explore real-world issues in great depth through research and collaboration. This was an excellent opportunity for our students to write and present their work effectively, demonstrating scholarship, hard work and remarkable insight into some of the most intriguing and challenging topics facing our world today.”

National Infant Immunization Week

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To The Editor:

            As pediatric healthcare providers, we are privileged to care for families through every stage of childhood – and one of the most essential parts of our work is ensuring that children receive their vaccines on time, every time.

            National Infant Immunization Week, observed this year from April 21–28, is a reminder of how far we’ve come in the fight against once-devastating diseases, and how much is at stake if we let our guard down. The modern immunization schedule is one of the most effective tools in medicine, developed through rigorous science to protect children when they are most vulnerable.

            Here in Massachusetts, we are incredibly fortunate. Our state provides all recommended childhood vaccines free of charge to pediatric practices. That means families aren’t burdened by cost at the point of care, and healthcare providers like us aren’t forced to choose between protecting children and bearing enormous up-front costs to stock vaccines. It’s a model other states would do well to follow – and one that reflects our state’s commitment to public health.

            But even with access, we face a growing challenge: misinformation and vaccine refusal. In recent months, we’ve seen alarming outbreaks of preventable diseases, like the measles outbreak centered in Texas, directly linked to declining vaccination rates. These are not just headlines – they are real children in real hospitals, suffering from diseases we know how to prevent.

            Let’s be clear: measles, whooping cough, polio – these are not diseases of the past. They are waiting in the wings, ready to return whenever immunity slips below a critical level. And when parents choose to skip or delay vaccines, it doesn’t just affect their own child, it puts newborns, medically vulnerable children and adults, and whole communities at risk.

            To protect the health of all citizens, states must reconsider allowing non-medical exemptions to school and daycare vaccine requirements, exemptions that include religious or philosophical objections. These exemptions, often based on misinformation rather than evidence or doctrine, weaken community immunity and increase the risk of outbreaks. Vaccination policy should be guided by science and public health, not personal belief.

            We understand that parents want to make the best decisions for their children. That’s why we’re always here to listen, answer questions, and provide evidence-based guidance. But delaying or refusing vaccines doesn’t just increase a child’s risk – it erodes the community protection that keeps all of us safe.

            This National Infant Immunization Week, we urge families to stay on schedule. Vaccines are safe, effective, and free. When we vaccinate every child on time, every time, we are investing in a healthier, safer future – not just for our own families, but for our entire community.

Steve Mendes, MD

Jason Reynolds, MD

Jennifer Russell, MD

Michelle Anderson, PNP

Elizabeth Coughlin, FNP

Amanda Conley, PNP

Kaitlyn Gibson, PNP

Kelly Flaherty, PNP

Catelyn Rueger, DO

Meghan Swinehart, MD

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.

Coastal Explorations with MNHM

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The Marion Natural History Museum will be offering an opportunity to explore some of Marion’s unique natural areas. We will be exploring our rocky inter-tidal shorelines, salt marshes, estuaries as well as freshwater riverbanks, forest, swamps, ponds and bogs. Daily we will take trips to look for the birds, amphibians, fish and invertebrates that make these areas so special.

            Each morning will involve hands-on exploration, experiments, crafts and journaling while being outdoors. Your child will enjoy being a Coastal Explorer with the Marion Natural History Museum. Space is limited to 15 per session so make sure to register early. Perfect for children entering grades 2-6.

            This year we will also be offering a full-day option in partnership with the Marion Recreation Department. Spend half the day with us, and then if you want extended hours, Marion Recreation will be busing from our location to Silvershell beach for the remainder of the day.

            Register at www.marionmuseum.org for both options. Event dates are July 7 to 11, 9:00 am to 12:00 pm and August 4 to 8, 9:00 am to 12:00 pm.

Thomas C. McCormack, MD

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Thomas C. McCormack, MD, 81, of Mattapoisett passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family. His death occurred on April 12, 2025 after a brief illness.

            Tom was born in San Angelo, TX on March 17, 1944 to Thomas C. and Helen (Connelly) McCormack.  On July 1, 1967 Tom married Trudy (Crowley) McCormack with whom he enjoyed 57 years of marriage.

            Tom was an alumnus of Salesianum High School in Wilmington, DE, Providence College and Georgetown University School of Medicine.

            During the Vietnam War he served in the U.S. Navy. Tom spent two years at the Bureau of Medicine and Surgery in Washington, DC. In 1976 he joined Healthcare for Women on Brigham St. in New Bedford. After 30 years of practice in Obstetrics & Gynecology, Tom retired to enjoy family life in Mattapoisett, Jupiter, FL and Eyeries, West Cork, Ireland.

            An avid golfer, Tom was a 20 year member of The Kittansett Club in Marion. Tom was a devoted fan of Providence College basketball.

            Survivors include his wife Trudy; his 3 children, Maureen Chamberlain of Mattapoisett, Patrick McCormack and his wife Lynn of Brunswick, ME and Brendan McCormack of Foxboro; his sister, Lynn Bogush and her husband Greg; his grandchildren, Jack Chamberlain, Aidan Chamberlain, Thomas McCormack and Quinn McCormack; and 2 nieces.

            His Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, June 21st at 10 am in St. Anthony’s Church, 26 Hammond St. Mattapoisett.  Visiting hours are omitted. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Southcoast Health at Home 200 Mill Rd. Fairhaven, MA 02719. A special thank you to his patients, associates, family and Southcoast Visiting Nurses Association.

Reminiscing While Waiting until This Year

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Luis Tiant was sitting in an aisle seat about six rows up from the stage watching his grandson perform in the company of a high school musical I was directing. It appeared that no one recognized him. At the end of the show, he quickly escaped up the aisle and exited out a side door.

            Tiant was, of course, the star pitcher of the Boston Red Sox back in 1975 when the Olde Towne Team reached the World Series against the Cincinnati Reds. “El Tiante” shut out the “Big Red Machine” in Game 1, allowing only five hits and went on to throw a complete-game win in Game 4 as well.

            Dan Shaughnessy, the sage of the sports page of that big city broadside north of here, has declared it was the “greatest World Series of all time.” Maybe, but I say the sixth game was the greatest game ever when Carlson Fisk hit a walk-off home run, raising the hopes that another win would clinch the series. Alas, it was not to be, the Sox lost in seven. What is it they say, “Wait ’til next year.”

            El Tiante died last October at the age of 83, never making the Baseball Hall of Fame. The Sox honored him at their opening game a few weeks ago.

            I was lucky enough to attend two games of the ’75 series. It was so long ago, and my memory is so fussy that I can’t remember which two. I do know that the tickets were free! Thanks to my bride’s uncle who used to own a minor league team down south. Once in professional baseball, always in pro baseball.

            Every morning there were tickets available at the American League hotel. Every team allotted 30 or 40 tickets to their players. Few players used them. Viola! They were there for the taking. Thanks Uncle Arthur.

            World Series games are like no other. I consider myself lucky to have had the experience. Unlike the 1967 “Impossible Dream” year when I actually lived on Jersey Street, a homerun ball away from Fenway Park. With no money for tickets – as a poor college kid without a nickel to spare, I didn’t have the $4 they cost – open windows had to suffice to experience the noise of the crowd while watching the games on my 14-inch Emerson TV.

            After a win, I’d run down to the ballpark to quietly celebrate with the crowd (True story. I wouldn’t lie to my cherished readers.) Years later, The Boston Globe published a retrospective with a photo of the other crazy fans – not me – climbing phone poles and milling around. The photo showed a Boston mounted policeman. Standing next to the horse was… yup, me, horned-rim glasses and all.

            The next time I was at Fenway was on my honeymoon. My bride and I sat in the bleachers, and I got nauseous from the… er, odor. You get my drift?

            I hope Luis Tiant finally makes the Hall of Fame posthumously.

            Mattapoisett resident Dick Morgado is an artist and happily retired writer. His newspaper columns appeared for many years in daily newspapers around Boston.

Thoughts on…

By Dick Morgado

More Town House Security Fobs Granted

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On April 15, the Marion Select Board met to tackle a long list of action items, as well as hearing reports from Town Administrator Geoffrey Gorman.

            After the approval of minutes from the group’s last meeting, the board held a review of a dog complaint for 20 Vine Street per an agreement from March 2024. Animal Control Officer Susan Connor, who was present, stated that “nothing has changed. We’ve had numerous complaints, violations; I myself have witnessed violations.” Connor then recommended the board move ahead with a Dangerous Dog Hearing.

            The dog owners were not present, and the board discussed with the town administrator what the next course of action should be as there is no applicable fee in place. A hearing was scheduled for May 20.

            A sewer application waiver request was granted to the residents of 24 West Drive. They had requested two waivers for a tie in for two of the property’s houses. The first is for the installation of a 4-inch, Schedule 40 pipe that runs approximately 92 feet from both homes to the grinder pump. The second for the existing condition of the sewer pipes leaving the foundation with less than 3 feet of cover. The board mentioned an independent review may be necessary to analyze the site’s sewer compliance.

            The Board of Accessors had requested security fobs for access to the Town House after hours in preparation for the upcoming election. Currently, there is a limited number of key fobs. The three Select Board members agreed that elected officials should have access to the Town House. In the past, the board discussed there being numerous people with keys and there not being a registry of who possessed them. The board is apprehensive to allow for many other people to have keys due to security concerns of limiting the restriction.

            Members of the Board of Assessors was present to defend their request, with one saying, “I’m just going to get this off my chest. We are not essential personnel as far as security or public safety, but if we don’t get our work done, this town’s going down the drain because you’re not going to get tax rates set.”

            After much discussion, the Select Board allowed the Planning Board, Board of Accessors, and Board of Health or “any other elected official that has an office in the Town House” to have security fobs to enter the building after hours.

            The board then approved the appointment of Tom Drechsler as associate member of the Conservation Commission. An amendment was made to the Ever Auto Sales License to include a Doing Business As (DBA) on the license per RMV requirement. A Special One Day Alcohol Beverage License was granted to OCD Beverage Catering LLC for the Tri County Music Association Fundraiser on June 8 at Tabor Academy, where beer and wine will be served to approximately 300 people. The approval of the donation of a 2004, 14-foot Mercury Quicksilver Inflatable Boat from the Town of Rockland Fire Department was also approved.

            A discussion on the MS4 (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer) Bylaw, to be voted on at the fall Town Meeting, was levied. Where pressure from the Environmental Protection Agency has notified the board of the necessity in notifying them of the status of the bylaw, they stated they need to see a complete MS4 Bylaw by April 21. The Select Board said the town would use October 20 as a placeholder date for fall Town Meeting.

            The next meeting of the Marion Select Board is scheduled for Tuesday, May 6, at 6:00 pm in the Marion Town House.

Marion Select Board

By Sam Bishop

MAC Auditions for Miss Witherspoon

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The MAC Theater will be conducting auditions for the MAC’s August production of Miss Witherspoon, on Saturday, May 3 from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm and on Sunday, May 4, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm at 80 Pleasant St. Marion. The play, written by Tony award-winning playwright Christopher Durang will be directed by Kate Fishman.

            Miss Witherspoon is a hilariously thought-provoking comedy about a woman’s reluctant journey through reincarnation and the afterlife. The title character, Miss Witherspoon, has given up on life but finds herself caught in the “Bardo,” a cosmic waiting room. Guided – or rather prodded – by Maryamma, an unwavering yet kind South Asian woman, Miss Witherspoon confronts her resistance to reincarnation and learns unexpected lessons through her short-lived lives on earth. With biting wit and poignant moments, this play explores themes of mortality, growth, and redemption with a humorous touch.

            The nine performance dates are August 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17, 22, 23, 24, 2025 with evening shows at 7:30 pm and Sunday matinees at 2:00 pm. More information, including a list of characters and descriptions, is available at www.marionartcenter.org/auditions.

Saint Gabriel’s Hosts Choral Evensong

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Saint Gabriel’s Episcopal Church warmly invites the public to a special Choral Evensong on Sunday, April 27 at 5:00 pm at 124 Front Street, Marion.

            This beautiful and contemplative service, rooted in the Anglican tradition, will feature scripture, prayer, and sacred music offered by the Saint Gabriel’s choir. Choral Evensong is an opportunity to step away from the busyness of everyday life and experience spiritual peace through timeless music and worship.

            All are welcome to attend this free event, regardless of faith background. For more information, please visit stgabrielsmarion.org or call 508-748-1507.