Alan Wheelock
Special to the Express

Plympton has long had a beautiful and varied natural landscape – white cedar swamps, red maple wetlands, cranberry bogs, open fields, and uplands dominated by beech, hemlock, oaks, white ash, American holly, and white pine. As old stone walls running through the woods attest, much of the town was once cleared for agriculture. It has been said that, in the 19th century, the church in the center of Halifax could easily be seen by people standing at The Green in Plympton!
Slow population growth and extensive wetlands have helped large areas of Plympton remain untouched and natural. In recent years, however, the growth of the surrounding South Shore towns has ratcheted up the pressure on this 318-year-old community. Plympton residents – who consistently rate “preserving the rural landscape and character of the town” as their highest priority when they are surveyed by the Plympton Open Space Committee, have played a very active role in land conservation in the town.
During the past 15 years, new information about Massachusetts’s environment and habitat has highlighted how special Plympton’s natural areas are, and how they provide residents with economic as well as environmental benefits. Plympton’s dependence on two aquifers to support our well water and septic systems has become a top priority and concern. Given the increasing threats to our water quality, preservation of land has emerged as a key component of a long-term solution to these challenges.
Despite its small population and limited financial resources, Plympton has responded to these development pressures effectively – both in terms of acres protected and cost. Linda Leddy of West Street, who led the Open Space Committee for many years, stated that “Preserving the town’s incredible natural resources for now and the future brought together Plympton’s amazing residents to answer the challenge. Plympton people brought a huge array of talent, energy and determination to this job, making it both successful and (mostly) a lot of fun!”
During the last fifteen years, Plympton has created several beautiful and valuable conservation areas, including:
• Churchill Park and Cato’s Ridge, which covers over 104 acres and stretches from Main Street to Ring Road. It includes a large percentage of Plympton’s portion of the Plymouth-Carver aquifer, which supplies water to residents east of Main Street.
• Two Brooks Preserve, encompassing 133 acres off Winnetuxet Road, is generally regarded as one of the loveliest conservation areas on the South Shore. It is part of the Taunton River Watershed and helps protect the aquifer west of Main Street.
• Turkey Swamp, Plympton’s largest project to date, was successfully concluded in 2024 and contains 238 acres. This preserved land is of critical environmental importance, containing some of the finest white cedar swamp still existing in Massachusetts. It also creates an important natural corridor that provides a connection with the other preserves and plays a significant role in protecting the town’s aquifers and critical wildlife habitats.
Leddy noted that it has been gratifying to see the time and effort that Plympton residents have invested in preserving the beauty and groundwater of their town. She described the creativity and work that large numbers of townspeople have devoted to making these conservation projects a reality. For example, the effort to save both Cato’s Ridge and Two Brooks Preserve included fundraising events, the construction of several stunning boardwalks built primarily with volunteer labor, and the development of extensive trail systems in the park – again relying heavily on the work of committed volunteers. Today, the parks are often used by local families out for a walk in the woods, bird watching, and, in a large portion of the land, hunting.
Turkey Swamp was helped immensely by a state program entitled the Municipal Vulnerabilities Program, a forward-looking effort by Massachusetts to help mitigate the growing impact of climate change. Leddy led a significant effort to garner support from the state – ably assisted by Wildlands Trust and Bill Napolitano from SRPEDD (Southeastern Regional Planning and Economic Development District). That work resulted in Plympton being awarded a $500,000 grant from MVP – the largest grant in the history of the town. That grant, combined with funds from the Plympton Community Preservation Committee, allowed this large and vitally important piece of wetland to be preserved in perpetuity.
All three of these preserves have received strong support from Plympton’s Community Preservation Committee, as well as from more than 100 generous private donors and contributions from charitable organizations.
Mark Russo, Chairman of the Community Preservation Committee and member of the Board of Selectmen, has played a key role in supporting and advocating on behalf of this long and sustained effort to preserve land.”
In a recent summary of Plympton’s newest (2024) Open Space and Recreation Plan, referring to these three preserves, it was stated that: “These 475 acres have been permanently conserved for a total purchase price of $1,034,725, or $2,176 per acre.” Leddy also said, “The other key point is that NO general tax funds have been used to pay for the $1 million in preserve acquisition costs. Our strategy from the beginning was to work with partners to bring a variety of funding sources to the goal. As a result, 41% came from state grants, 33% from CPC, and 24% from generous donations by individuals and charities.”
Leddy concluded that, while much has been accomplished, much more remains to be done. In 2012, Plympton had just 1% of its land protected – the lowest in the state. With these new preserves and related projects by land trusts having come into existence, 10% of Plympton’s land area is now protected. However, the average percentage of preserved land in Massachusetts towns is 27%. Residents interested in learning more about how to protect their land are encouraged to reach out to any member of the Plympton Open Space Committee or the Plympton Conservation Commission.

Stephani Teran
Express staff
On Friday evening, May 30, Silver Lake Regional High School held graduation for the Class of 2025. It was an inspiring evening full of hope, encouragement, somber reflection, and optimism for the future. The evening began with the Select Choir Singers opening with the National Anthem followed by stirring renditions of Bob Dylan’s, “The Times They Are a-Changin’”, and Simon and Garfunkel’s, “Bridge Over Troubled Water.”
The first speaker was Senior Class President, Hannah Selig who began with the question, “What do I want to be when I grow up?” She spoke of having so many dreams and options up to this point but now, faced with her future beyond high school, she felt overwhelmed by the possibilities. Hannah found the more important question not to be, “What will your job be?” but, “What will you be?” She explained that the movie, The Sandlot, had been a poignant film in her life and how the main character was successful because of the kind of friend he was in the story rather than his athletic achievements. She left her peers with the stirring statement, “Dare to be more than what you plan on doing to pay the bills.” She stated that we can’t always control what happens to us but we can control who we are and how we treat others. She closed her remarks by saying, “I can’t wait to see what legends you become.”
Next was guest speaker, Mr. Daniel Correia, math teacher and Varsity Boys Soccer Coach. Mr. Correia gave an amusing account of experimenting with allowing AI to write his speech for him. He concluded that although it was somewhat proficient it lacked true substance. He explained that technology is often actually quite isolating and true connection can only be human. He also advised the students to keep in mind that the only constant in life is change. “In the face of our ever-changing world, continue to be adaptable and open minded as you travel along life’s journey.”
Silver Lake High School Salutatorian, Olivia Melisi was next with a thought-provoking speech about mental health and finding resilience through trials. She explained that in spite of her academic success and numerous prestigious achievements and endeavors, she was overcome with the anxiety of perfectionism and it made her ill. She explained that seeking treatment and recovery led her to miss a good deal of school the prior year but that she did the right thing in being brave and admitting to needing help. Olivia also spoke about the healing she found in becoming involved with drama and choir and reminded her classmates that mental and physical health is more important that academic accolades. “Life isn’t meant to be about chasing the perfect GPA or crafting the perfect resume. It’s about connection, emotion. I truly believe we are here to experience. To laugh, cry, grieve, and everything in between.”
The following speech was given by the Silver Lake High School Class of 2025 Valedictorian, Ellery Roche. Ellory continued to touch on the importance of a person’s character rather than their achievements. She stated that good grades are a good thing and something to strive for, but what matters is character. “Kindness is a virtue and it’s important to go the extra mile for others. Trust me, you will make a difference.”
After Ellery’s moving speech, Silver Lake Regional High School Principal Mrs. Michaela Gill shared a few remarks. She mentioned that trends come and go but you can leave a lasting mark as a person. She said that the Class of 2025 was a great example of not being what happens to you, but how you respond. She touched on looking after mental health first and foremost and being connected to others to stay strong when met with challenges. “I hope that every single one of you that leaves here today knows that your character isn’t defined by how flawless your journey looks. It’s shaped by how you rise, respond, and move forward -even on the messiest or, sorry Dr. Proulx, ‘shittiest’ of days.”
The closing remarks were given by Silver Lake School District Superintendent Dr. Jill Proulx. She stated that as she took the podium she was looking out on those who will shape the future. She expressed high hopes and expectations for the Class of 2025 not only because of the many academic feats and impressive student resumes and accomplishments, but because of their admirable choices as peers and community members. “You have the power to be change makers. Every single one of you can ignite that spark of transformation -in our schools, our communities, and beyond.”
Included in the speeches throughout the evening were reflections and remembrances of classmate, Maddie Straub, who tragically passed away last September. Her peers spoke of how much she was missed and reminisced about her perpetual smile, her laugh, and her loyalty as a friend. Fellow classmates said that Maddie never took life for granted. According to her friends and peers she was a natural born leader and had a huge impact on all who met her.
Following the evening’s speeches diplomas were handed out to 262 graduating seniors. Congratulations to the Silver Lake Regional High School Class of 2025. Your community has no doubt that you will find success in your futures and in life because you have learned well to prioritize human connection and character above all else. Here’s to a bright future for all Silver Lake High Seniors, Class of 2025.

Scott Farrell
Special to the Express
On May 9, 31 students from Silver Lake Regional School District, in grades 7 through 12, proudly represented the district at the Industry Showcase held at The TRACK at New Balance in Boston. Sponsored by the One8 Foundation, this statewide event brought together more than 1,500 students to present innovative STEM projects and interact with professionals from various industries.
The showcase highlights how students apply classroom learning to solve real-world problems. Throughout the day, students presented their work and engaged in thoughtful discussions with industry professionals, receiving both oral and written feedback. These conversations offered valuable insight and real-world relevance, helping students better understand professional standards and expectations.
Now in its third year of participation, SLRSD continues to expand its presence at the event. This year’s projects represented a wide range of coursework, including 7th grade science, 8th grade technology/engineering, and engineering courses from grades 9 to 12. Senior Capstone students showcased long-term projects, including a stormwater debris mitigation system, redesigned protective hockey equipment, and a more efficient condiment bottle.
Students consistently described the experience as both challenging and rewarding. Many expressed appreciation for the opportunity to speak with experts who showed genuine interest in their work and helped validate the effort they’ve put in throughout the year.
The staff at SLRSD is incredibly proud—not only of the effort and creativity students demonstrated, but also of their professionalism and maturity in presenting their work. Events like this reflect the meaningful learning happening in our schools and the essential real-world skills our students are developing every day.

Stephani Teran
Express staff
Memorial Day Parade and Celebration Tri Town Schedules and Routes
Plympton
Parade starts at 10 a.m.
Parade Route: The parade forms in front of the Historical Society Building, 189 Main St., and winds its way down Main Street to the Town Gazebo on the Town Green.
A Memorial Day Ceremony will follow the parade at the Town Gazebo with readings of: The Gettysburg Address, In Flanders Field, and an original essay read by a Dennett student titled: What Memorial Day Means to Me.
Following the ceremony there will be a Touch-a- Truck Event and a cookout at the Fire Station with free hot dogs and ice cream at the Plympton Library.
Halifax
Parade Starts at 10 a.m. The parade will form in front of the Halifax Country Club and conclude at Town Hall, 499 Plymouth St.
A Memorial Day Ceremony will follow the parade in front of Town Hall.
Kingston
Parade Starts at 10 a.m.
The parade will form at the WWII Memorial (across from Cancun Restaurant, 145 Main St.) and proceed onto Landing Road, Main Street, Green Street, and Evergreen Street. A Memorial Day ceremony will follow at the Kingston Veterans Memorial. After the ceremony there will be a community cookout behind Town House with free hamburgers and hot dogs. Please bring your own blankets and chairs.

Stephani Teran
Express Newspapers
In a society that increases in rush and intensity all the time, Plympton is a haven for traditions and events that bring the community together and provide a chance for people to slow down and appreciate life. One such tradition is the town’s annual Memorial Day parade where veterans who lost their lives in service are honored and remembered. The expected scene marching down Main Street is quintessentially “Plympton” with lively children donning town team baseball caps and Scout uniforms, a line of tractors driven by grinning proprietors who are easily recognized as local farmers and friends, familiar first responders who also assist in organizing the event, elegant horses urged further down the road by expert equestrians astride, and of course the crowd favorites: the cow and bumblebee trains from Sauchuk’s loaded with some of the tiniest townspeople waving flags.
To attendees, the parade may seem like an event that comes and goes in a few hours, but a deeper examination of the efforts that go into putting this display of remembrance together reveals months of planning and collaborative efforts between various town organizations as well as the time, energy, and expertise of the parade committee, and the experience and direction of the Board of Selectmen and Selectmen’s Assistant, Briggette D. Martins.
Martins, who grew up in Plympton, remembers marching in the Memorial Day Parade as a Brownie in Girl Scouts and with the Plympton Children’s Garden Club. “The parade has been going on for over fifty-five years,” she recalls while sitting in her sunny office after an hour-long parade committee meeting.
Martins explains that one of her job duties is to organize and oversee the Memorial Day Parade each year. “The first year I did it was 2016 and it was cancelled that morning because of heavy rain and lightning,” she says laughing.
Martins said the parade route has stayed about the same aside from the Plympton Tricentennial when it came down Mayflower Road. She explains that in order to keep things running and organized it takes a substantial collective effort from many “faithful helpers” as she refers to the people who have been assisting and supporting the parade for many years without fail.
“I want the town to know that volunteering is huge,” she says while listing off the many people and organizations who work with her on this event each year.
Martins and the Parade Committee meet at Town Hall each month to collaborate and organize the Memorial Day events. Serving on the committee with Martins is Plympton Fire Chief Cheryl Duddy, Lieutenant Daniel Hoffman of the Plympton Police Department, Rob Firlotte of the Plympton Highway Department, Plympton Library Director Mike Slawson, Captain John Sjostedt of the Plympton Fire Department, and the Board of Health Administrative Assistant, Cathy Ferguson. The meetings demonstrate teamwork, sharp thinking, thorough planning, and friendly banter. When an issue or question comes up it is clear that the committee is comfortable with each other and knows the process well enough to work through things quickly. A great deal of time is spent discussing and refining the parade route and road closures. Safety is very obviously the first concern of all on the committee and detailed plans are made to ensure this for everyone. Factors like heat, walking distance, water bottles, and pacing are also taken into consideration.
Careful decisions are made as to who will be walking and riding in vehicles. The parade order is set to best serve everyone and ensure that antique cars and small children don’t overheat.
In addition to planning the parade procession a good deal of time is spent organizing the subsequent ceremony at the Town Gazebo. Each year the committee thoughtfully reviews the program line up, the chosen readings, songs to be shared, and flag displays that best pay respect to those who the day pays homage to.
“We honor the past and the present,” Martins says when stating her intention with the ceremony.
The reflective Town Gazebo ceremony is to be followed by some fun with a “Touch a Truck” event and hot dogs served at the Fire Station as well as a Build Your Own Sundae at the library. The committee is always appreciative of donations for materials and supplies for these events and they go to great lengths to ensure families can enjoy themselves with food and drink after the parade.
Following the Parade Committee meeting Martins asked that the town be made aware of a few things. First, Martins asked to include a list of people in our town she would like to thank for their help -both currently and over the years. She extends her special thanks to: her Parade Committee: Kim Adams, the Albertis, the Kupic family, the Wilhelmsens, Jennifer Macdonald, Mike Lemieux, Roxanne Whitbeck, Scott Sauchuk of Sauchuk Farm, as well as PAYS, Sysco, the Plympton Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, Dennett Elementary School, the Plympton Fire Department, the Plympton Police Department, and anyone who has offered help in any way to continue the parade’s success each year.
A few items Martins asks the public to remember this year to increase safety and provide a positive experience for all: “We are not throwing candy,” she reminds, “This is a somber parade and we are to be respectful of the meaning of it.”
She also asks that parents dress their children appropriately for the weather which is often quite warm and provide them water and sunscreen. In addition, she asks that law enforcement’s road closures are strictly adhered to in order to avoid potential safety issues and to keep the parade running on time.
Overall, the Plympton Memorial Day Parade is always a meaningful experience for those who attend and participate. Martins said her hope for future parades involves including a few floats. She encourages local businesses to step up and make a “big deal” out of the parade by creating a float featuring a theme and local talent or townspeople who would fit nicely with the purpose of the event.
When met with eager volunteers, Martins certainly knows how to orchestrate and motivate all who are willing to help to make the Plympton Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony a special and cherished tradition.
“I still get goosebumps every year,” says Martin, rather proving that the honor and reflection meant to be shown and felt through the parade are kept sacred and at the heart of all the bustle and effort.

Stephani Teran
Express Newspapers
Fans of Edaville Family Theme Park in Carver may have been sad to see its iconic items on the auction block, but Plympton will play a part in keeping the memory of Edaville alive as the new home for its beloved carousel. Scott Sauchuk, owner of Sauchuk’s Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch in Plympton, purchased the 1986 carousel for $90,000 at the Edaville auction last Wednesday. The carousel, built by Chances Rides, Inc, will be moved about ten miles away, but people will be able to find it tucked nicely into the seasonal hustle and bustle of Sauchuk’s outdoor family games and activities.
“Carousels are a safe, family friendly attraction that will fit in nicely with our fall festival,” said Sauchuk. “Many other farms across the country have added carousels.”
The carousel will be an included attraction with the corn maze admission in the fall and will no doubt make many new fans as well as bring back memories for old ones. As for using it during other times of year there are big plans.
“Beyond that we might use it for birthday parties and field trips next year,” Scott explained. “I hope to get it set up and running and licensed by this fall, but I certainly cannot guarantee that.”
It’s safe to say that no matter when it is ready for use there will be plenty of eager riders, young and old, local and from afar, who will make new memories, all thanks to Scott Sauchuk keeping a local treasure local.

Halifax Elementary School was turned into an Eggstra Special 23rd Annual Egg Speggtacular Saturday, April 12. More than 4,000 eggs were filled with treats and prizes for grade-based egg hunts. Halifax Youth and Recreation Director Richard Steele oversaw the operation for yet another year. There was also a balloon artist, face painting, and Moon Walk. The event was sponsored by North Easton Savings Bank and Dunkin’ Donuts.

The Plympton Garden Club and the Historical Society would like to remind residents that the annual Town Wide Clean Up will be held on Saturday, April 12, with a rain date of Sunday, April 13. The hours of the cleanup are 8:30 a.m. until 1 p.m.
Due to the fact that Plympton did not conduct a litter clean up last year, our roads are a mess! All that residents need to do to help is to stop by and speak to the volunteers at a table set up in front of the Town House on Palmer Road the day of the event. There they will be provided with trash bags and other tools and receive a street assignment. Other important facts for volunteers to know include:
• The Plympton Highway Department will be picking up full trash bags and transporting them to the transfer station.
• The orange “pay as you throw” bags will not be required for this project. Instead, residents can use the bags provided at the volunteers table.
• Once trash bags are filled, they can be left by the side of the road, and the Highway Department vehicles will pick them up.
We’re lucky to live in one of the most picturesque towns on the South Shore, and this is our annual chance to pitch in and help to keep it that way! See you on April 12!