Dear Editor:
This week, the fifth-grade students from Old Hammondtown School experienced why Mattapoisett is such a special place to live. On Wednesday, at our annual outdoor Flag Day ceremony, we honored our country and veterans with patriotic songs, poems and a mural. At one point, an ABC sanitation truck pulled up and George, the driver, respectfully turned off his vehicle and waited for fifteen minutes before continuing his rounds so as not to drown out the celebration. There are not many other places in this country where that would happen.
We spent the rest of the day visiting the Mattapoisett Free Public Library, the Mattapoisett Historical Museum, the Center School clock tower and the Mattapoisett Town Hall. We would like to thank Jeanne McCullough, Ray Andrews, Jennifer McIntire, Jeffrey Miller, Jordan Collyer, Catherine Heuberger, Michael Gagne, Mel Pacheco and countless other community members for making our day full of fun and learning.
Wherever we went, the police helped us cross streets, construction stopped and the adults emphasized that our town belongs to its citizens. We experienced a connection to our community and we were so grateful for the opportunity. The children are the future of Mattapoisett and we would like to thank you all for the inspiration you have given them.
Mattapoisett is special.
Rachel Arruda, Stacy Barrows, Amy Casi and Kristen Sunde
Grade 5, OHS