Fun with Fungi Hike

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Join Mattapoisett Land Trust and Mass Audubon as we head out on an all-ages family hike at ‘Walega-Livingstone Preserve’ in the Brandt Island Cove trail system on Sunday November 3 from 9:00 am to 10:00 am.

            Fungi are the decomposers and recyclers of our forest systems. Without them, forests would take much longer to regenerate. The mushrooms we see are just the spore-producing bodies of a much larger, more complex organism growing in the wood or ground below. Mass Audubon staff will be leading our walk and teaching us about these fascinating fungi.

            Our hike will begin at the Anchorage Way trailhead located at the end of Tara Road; parking is available along the street. We recommend long pants and close-toed hiking shoes for this trail. This hike is for all ages and is free, however registration is required. See www.massaudubon.org/programs and search “Fun with Fungi.”

Citizens United

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To the Editor,

            The 2010 U.S. Supreme Court 5 to 4 ruling in the Citizens United case that declared unconstitutional the government restriction on “independent” political spending by artificial entities such as corporations and unions made null and void the 2002 Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act, also known as the McCain-Feingold Act.

            As predicted by numerous knowledgeable politicians, including President Barack Obama, who said at the time that the decision “gives the special interests and their lobbyists even more power in Washington—while undermining the influence of average Americans who make small contributions to support their preferred candidates”. Those predictions have come true.

            Historian and educator Heather Cox Richardson, in her October 18, 2024, Letters From an American podcast noted: “The McConnell-aligned Senate Leadership Fund has, so far, spent more than $140 million in this year’s Senate races, with more than $136 million going to attack ads. In the four races that are most vulnerable for Democrats—Montana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin—that money is bolstering extremely wealthy Republican challengers.” Also, one of the richest men in the world, Elon Musk, this week pledged to give $1 million a day to certain swing state voters who sign a pledge.

            She goes on to state that self-funding of election campaigns by Republican candidates in the above-noted swing-states echoes the late 19th century which led “in 1913 to the 17th Amendment to The Constitution which established that the power to elect senators must rest in the hands of voters”.

            Today, wealthy individuals and SuperPacs increasingly reduce the power of average American voters. It is time to once again amend the Constitution to re-introduce campaign finance controls. Passage of Congress’s We the People Amendment (HJR-54) is one way this can be done. Encourage our elected pollical leaders to make this happen.

Jack Dean, Mattapoisett

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.

From the Files of the Rochester Historical Society

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This is the text of the speech I gave at the SAR dedication on September 26 – wearing both hats – chairperson of the Historical Commission and vice president of the Historical Society. I want to preface it by saying how lucky Rochester (along with Marion and Mattapoisett) residents are to live in a town with such a rich history and one that is so baked into the history of America.

            “I was asked to speak today about Rochester and the American Revolution, and I’ll start with the statement made by the principal orator in 1879 at the 200th anniversary celebration of Old Rochester. ‘Rochester sent more men to fight in the Revolutionary War than any other town of its size.’

            Before you think this was a partisan statement, the speaker was a lawyer from Wareham. History offers some hints that what he said was true.

            In 1768, the Boston Committee was working against Great Britain and for independence. They called for a Convention at Faneuil to pass resolutions against the taxes being imposed by the king. They wanted area towns to send delegates.

            Plymouth County towns as a whole had an apathetic response to all the messages being sent out by the Committee. James Warren said to Sam Adams, and I quote, “Plymouth County towns could not be raised except by a power that would wake the dead”.

            Rochester was the exception. They sent delegates to the Convention and passed many town resolutions to endorse the Committee plans. They voted to break off all trade with Great Britain and to give up drinking English tea. Town Meeting also voted to increase their stores of arms and ammunition. They directed that up to a hundred men, minutemen, should be formed into companies and train 3 1/2 days a week.

            At this time, any town official seen to have Tory sentiments was not re-elected and often would then move out of town.

            In 1774, a large group of Rochester men marched through Wareham, picking up additional marchers on the way to the Barnstable County Courthouse. There they met up with men from Sandwich and Plymouth to prevent the court from going into session and to force the judges to sign some pro-patriot pledges.

            On April 19,1775, the Battle of Lexington took place. Rumors reached Rochester the next day. Many found the rumors to be unbelievable, so 21-year-old Abraham Holmes was sent to head toward Middleboro to get news. He met a messenger who told him that the battle had taken place, and the colonists had sent the British soldiers running back to Boston. According to his memoirs, Holmes said he headed home, ‘as gay as a lark that the struggle for independence had begun.’

            Three Rochester Militia companies marched off to Roxbury in response to the Lexington Call. Put all this together and you can see why so many men from town would have enlisted in the war effort.

            Among the many Rochester men active during the Revolution, one in particular stands out. Elnathan Haskell enlisted in the Continental Army and rose to the rank of Major. He stayed with the army as the war moved out of New England, through New York and New Jersey and into the South. He became an aide to General Washington. If you go to the Capitol in Washington DC, there is a large painting of the surrender of British General Burgoyne on the dome. If you look seven men to the right of center, you will see Major Haskell of Rochester.”

By Connie Eshbach

Upcoming Events at the Elizabeth Taber Library

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When school is out on Tuesday, November 5, join us in the children’s room from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm for a Lego afternoon. Tackle our challenge or build from your imagination.

            Kids in grades K-4 are invited to join us for Afternoon Activities every Wednesday from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm. On November 6 we’ll be working with air dry clay.

            Starting Thursday, November 7, kids ages 2-5 can join us for Messy Morning at 10:30 am. This program will focus on messy play and process art projects. Aprons are provided, but we recommend wearing clothes that can get dirty.

            Kids in grades 1-4 are invited to register for one or both of our November Role Playing Game sessions. Shadows will be on Friday, November 8 from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm and Honey Heist will be on Tuesday, November 26 from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Register by calling the Elizabeth Taber Library at 508-748-1252 or emailing etlibrary@sailsinc.org. Capacity is limited.

            Find fun Young Adult activities for students ages 9 and up every Thursday after school from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm.

            The Library will be closed November 11 for Veteran’s Day. The Library will close at 12:00 pm on Wednesday, November 27, and be closed Thursday and Friday, November 28 and November 29, in celebration of Thanksgiving.

            For more information on the Elizabeth Taber Library visit us at www.ElizabethTaberLibrary.org or call us at 508-748-1252

Visual Voices

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Come to the Mattapoisett Free Public Library to see selected works by our talented ORR students. The upcoming exhibition “Visual Voices: A Sampling of Student Artwork from ORRHS” showcases the vibrant imagination of Old Rochester Regional High School students. It will open on November 1 and run through November 30. The show features a diverse range of artwork, including ceramic sculptures and 2D imagery that highlights the skills fostered in ORRHS’s art program.

            “Visual Voices” celebrates student achievement and seeks to inspire creativity in the broader community. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the artistic expressions of ORRHS students.

Richard S. Spooner

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Richard S. Spooner, 84, of Rochester, MA, passed away peacefully in his sleep at home on October 5, 2024, due to heart complications.

            Born in December 1939 in New Bedford, he was the son of the late Lewis G. and Mary M. (Spencer) Spooner. He was predeceased by three siblings: Gerald Spooner, Donald Spooner, and Flora Duffy.

            Richard is survived by his daughter, Richlie Zuniga and her husband William, along with his nephew Robert Duffy and wife Noreen, and nieces: Margaret Duffy, Mary Wynne and her husband Tom. He was a proud grandfather to three wonderful grandchildren—Caitlyn, Paul, and Bella—who gifted him with five great-grandchildren. He was also an uncle to several great-great-great-nieces and nephews. Richard’s fridge was a vibrant display of their photos and drawings, bringing him joy every day.

            Known by many names—Pal, Tex, Rich, Rick, Moon, Mooner, and Spooner. He proudly served in the U.S. Air Force from 1957 to 1961. Following his military service, Richard worked for a variety of companies, including Revere, Morse Twist Drill, Canal Electric, and as a mason laborer and bartender.

            In younger years, Richard enjoyed golfing, running, swimming, and a passion for cars. He was always impeccably dressed, often sporting boots and patriotic attire, whether it was a belt, suspenders, or a classic bandana around his neck. His love for family was evident throughout his life, as he grew up surrounded by them. He spent time living with his parents and even lived with his older sister on the Cape for a couple of years. Ultimately, he returned home to Braley Hill Road, where he resided until his passing.

            In his later years, Richard maintained a steadfast routine. If his flag was out, it meant he was home; each evening, it was safely stored away, and every morning it was proudly displayed.

            A dedicated member of the New Bedford YMCA for over 50 years, Richard frequented the gym almost daily. He enjoyed exploring New Bedford, Fall River, and Fairhaven with friends, always on the lookout for good food, local watering holes, and Keno. An avid blood donor, he quietly contributed to his community in many meaningful ways.

            Richard loved to reminisce about the “good old days,” when traffic was light and the land was filled with pine groves. He cherished memories of family gatherings, turkey farms, old neighbors, and the simpler times of his youth.

            Our beloved Richard was adored by many, he left an indelible mark on our hearts. His unwavering dedication to family and friends was truly remarkable, and he will be forever loved.

In keeping with Richard’s quiet and private nature, a small celebration of his life will be held during the warm summer months. While he would have preferred a modest obituary, a man with such a rich life and boundless love cannot be easily summarized. He was a keeper of countless memories and will be deeply missed.

            Please feel free to make a toast to the man who was a friend of many and cherish the moments, laughter, and love he shared.

            As Richard’s second home was the New Bedford YMCA, we invite you to designate a donation in his name to honor his legacy.

Preparing For Select Board Presentation

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The Holy Ghost Reuse Committee met on October 28 to discuss components of a presentation planned for the Select Board. The volunteers had taken on the task of not only diligently reviewing options for the town-owned acreage and surveying the community’s wants, but what uses became the first and most relevant question the committee needed to answer. To reach a consensus, a survey was in order.

            In January, after determining the best survey type, how to understand the collected data, and producing a report, the committee found passive recreational uses as the primary desired use.

            During the October meeting, they revisited the survey results. There were 553 surveys submitted with the average age of respondents being 41 years of age. 80 were identified as non-full-time residents or non-residents from surrounding towns. The largest age group responding fell between 60 to 75 years of age. Respondents were also asked to share how frequently they might use the proposed renovated space. Then came the possibilities. What did they want?

            A dog park and pickle ball courts rated high, but a study of the data showed it was nearly a tie between those wanting them and those not wanting them. For instance, those wanting pickle ball courts came in at 137 but the “no” responses were 163. The dog park was even closer of a tie, with 182 wanting one and 183 registering “no.”

            Three passive recreational use options came out on top. Those suggestions were a picnic area (225), a playground (224), and a walking loop (270). They have now agreed to present those options to the Select Board as the primary uses desired by the committee at large. They believed that the noted three passive uses were not only the most popular, but also the easiest to accomplish.

            Next step, meet with the Select Board. A December meeting will be arranged. Date and time to be announced.

Holy Ghost Reuse Committee

By Marilou Newell

November Events at the Mattapoisett Library

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The Mattapoisett Free Public Library, located at 7 Barstow Street, has a lot to keep you busy this November.

            Author Mary Norris will speak about her book Greek to Me: Adventures of the Comma Queen on Saturday, November 2 at 2:00 pm. This Purrington Author Series event is free and open to the public.

            The Teen Advisory Board meets on Tuesday, November 5 at 6:00 pm. Interested teens can contact Amanda Lawrence at alawrence@sailsinc.org. TAB is intended for students between the ages of 12 and 18 who seek a leadership role in the library. The members of the TAB work together as liaisons between students and the library, helping to ensure the library represents the teens of the community well. New members are welcome.

            Our Purrington Fall Author Series concludes with Lauren Wolk on Sunday, November 10, at 1:30 pm. Lauren will discuss her books and writing process, along with a prompt for a writing activity, followed by a signing. This event is suitable for all ages and abilities. No registration required.

            Join local cartoonist LJ-Baptiste for an engaging character design and comics workshop on Tuesday, November 12 at 6:00 pm. LJ’s Comics For All class will cover the basics of bringing expressive, unique characters and stories to life through sequential art. No experience necessary. Recommended for ages 12 and up. Attendees will receive a free book. No registration required.

            The Sunday Book Club meets on November 17 at 2:00 pm to discuss How To Read A Book by Monica Wood. The club is intended for adults. Contact Librarian Robbin Smith with questions at rsmith@sailsinc.org.

            Learn everything necessary to start needle felting from The Felted Bee on Tuesday, November 19, from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm. In this beginner-friendly workshop, participants will learn skills and techniques to create an adorable needle-felted fox. Tools and materials are included. Recommended for ages 12 and up. Space is limited. Registration is required.

            Our next Cookbook Club meeting is scheduled for November 19 at 6:30 pm. New members are always welcome. This month, we’re reading Salt Fat Acid Heat by Samin Nosrat. Limited copies of the book are available for pickup at the library. Stop by and snag one!

            Join graphic novelist Jonathan Todd for How to Create a Graphic Novel Page on Friday, November 22 at 3:30 pm. Jonathan will explain the elements of a story, along with how to plan and create panels and ink a graphic novel page. No experience necessary. Recommended for ages 12 and up. Attendees will receive a free book. No registration required.

            Mark your Calendars! The Friends of the Mattapoisett Library have announced their Annual Jewelry Sale dates, which will be held on three consecutive days for the first time. The special Preview Sale for Friends members is on Thursday, December 5 from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. The sale dates for the General Public will be Friday, December 6 from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm and Saturday, December 7 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. The Friends will be accepting donations of jewelry and accessory items now through Tuesday, November 19. Donations can be dropped off at the library during business hours. Please do not leave any donations outside. Our community has historically been very generous with jewelry and accessory items donations, and The Friends thank you in advance for helping make this annual sale a big success.

            As always, these events and activities are free and open to all. Check the calendar on our website for additional information and updates. If you have questions, please email mfpl@sailsinc.org or call us at 508-758-4171.

ORRHS Celebrates Unified Basketball Team’s Undefeated 2023 Season

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Superintendent Michael S. Nelson, Principal Michael Devoll, Athletic Director Chris Carrig, and Unified Bulldogs Basketball Team Coach Emma Fenton recently recognized and celebrated the Old Rochester Regional High School (ORRHS) Unified Basketball Team for its perfect 2023 season.

            On Friday, October 18, Principal Devoll, Director Carrig, and Coach Fenton presented a banner commemorating the Unified Basketball Team’s undefeated season at a pep rally with all ORRHS students present.

            “Congratulations to our talented Unified Basketball team on their impressive season” Superintendent Nelson said. “Thank you to Principal Devoll, Director Carrig, and Coach Fenton for their amazing work in providing this special recognition for our players. It’s times like these that we see and feel the positive impact of inclusivity and comradery amongst our wonderful students and staff.”

            During the pep rally, students made several handmade posters to cheer on the Unified Basketball Team on their success. Throughout the event, members of the team ran through the banner in celebration of their undefeated season and received many high-fives from peers.

            “The Unified Bulldogs embody the value of dedication and hard work” Athletic Director Carrig said. “Teamwork and the joy that comes with it are on full display in everything they do, and I couldn’t be prouder of the success they’ve earned.”

            The Unified Sports program in Massachusetts, run by Special Olympics Massachusetts in partnership with the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association, allows students with disabilities the opportunity to play high school sports alongside their peers in a fun and supportive environment.

            “The team is truly something special and to see their hard work and dedication recognized is amazing,” Coach Fenton said. “Opportunities like this really promote inclusion and give our Unified athletes credit for their accomplishments. While the wins are impressive – the banner truly represents the power of Unified Sports where every student, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to shine and contribute.”

            “Our Unified Basketball team represents all that is great about interscholastic sports,” said Principal Devoll. “They demonstrate teamwork, determination, positivity, and passion throughout their season. Congratulations to the players and Coach Fenton.”

Mattapoisett Congregational Church

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The Mattapoisett Congregational Church’s steeple is lit nightly and is a beacon of welcome and comfort to all. The Beacon of Light was started as a way to celebrate and honor loved ones or special occasions.  If you would like the steeple to be lit in remembrance of, in celebration of, or in honor of a loved one or blessed event, please call the church office at 508-758-2671 or email mattcongchurch@gmail.com for more information. We welcome and encourage multiple entries each month. This is a special way to celebrate our beautiful steeple, as a Beacon of Light in Mattapoisett, and to financially support our church. Thank you for your donation.