May 2024 Seekonk Reporter

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Letters to the Editor...

The letters in this section and opinion articles do not reflect the views of the staff of The Rehoboth Reporter. It is not our intent to take sides on any issues, but to present all arguments from all points of view. If your point of view is not represented on an issue, it is only because you have not voiced your opinion. Let us hear from YOU!

Mothers Day

Quiet realms Contain them. Untamed ones Need them too. Dancing like The gypsies. Nights with Moon in view.

Hopes and dreams Are forming, Through every Tear and laugh. Worlds would Be desolate, Without the Better half.

Don Gardner Seekonk, MA

Please Note:

• Letters to the Editor MUST be signed and contain a phone number!

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• We will withhold any letters of an accusatory nature until the accused person has a chance to respond in the same issue!

Email: news@reportertoday.com

Regarding Rubbish Pickup

To the Senior Citizens of Rehoboth, I have done a survey of my neighborhood, regarding rubbish pickup by WIN WASTE Innovations. I found that we are paying an exorbitant amount for rubbish pickup. The amounts paid vary – I pay $182.94 for 3 months – I’m single, with one 14-gallon bag of rubbish a week. My neighbors – a young family of 4 – pay $98.94 – same company – same service. A $20 increase just took place. I’m paying double the amount my neighbor pays. What’s wrong with this picture – why is that? I called the company to no avail – they would reduce the fee to $150.00 for 3 months… still too much; and won’t pick up once a month – only weekly. I cancelled the service. This may seem like a trivial matter; but it’s important to seniors who live on social security. What do I do why my rubbish now? How many other seniors are dealing with the same situation? If enough of us complain, maybe some changes for the better will happen.

The Board of Selectmen feel that this matter isn’t within their purview. If the company needs a license to operate in Rehoboth, they should be held accountable for what they are charging. They have bought out most other companies – so they have a monopoly in town – and charge whatever they want.

Thank you, Pat Horton Rehoboth, MA

Rehoboth Needs to Protect its Vernal Pools.

The Rehoboth Conservation Commission submitted a Vernal Pool Protection Zone Bylaw article for the Annual Town Meeting this spring. On April 22 the Selectmen pulled the article from the Warrant. The reason for the Bylaw was to protect vernal pools which are critical breeding habitats for many species of vertebrates and invertebrates, several which are endangered.

A common misconception is that vernal pools are protected by the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act. Only those pools found in wetlands are protected, however only a small percentage of the vernal pools in Rehoboth are found in wetlands. The rest are either Isolated Vegetative Wetlands (IVW) or Isolated Land Subject to Flooding (ILSF). Any IVW or ILSF that holds less than a quarter acre foot of water is non jurisdictional and therefore can be filled without replication. Those holding more than one quarter acre foot of water can be filled but must be replicated elsewhere on the property. They do not have to be replicated as vernal pools. Neither IVWs nor ILSFs have buffer zones.

The 2023 Supreme court case of “Sackett vs the EPA” ruled that any body of water not connected to streams or wetlands that flow into streams or rivers are not afforded any federal protection. Being IVWs and ILFSs they fall into this category. I had several conversations with officials at the Mass. Dep. of Environmental Protection. The answers were all the same. The only way for a town to protect its vernal pools is with a Town Bylaw.

I read a comment that there are plenty of frogs in Rehoboth, true, but frogs do not need vernal pools to breed, they can be found breeding in the many ponds found throughout Rehoboth. Since a characteristic of vernal pools is that they are dry part of the year, some frogs would die in a vernal pool by not having the time to grow into an adult. Those creatures that breed in vernal pools grow quickly. leaving the pool before it dries. Since vernal pools are so necessary for the survival of certain species, it is of the utmost importance that we save them while we can.

Sincerely,

Robert Materne Chairman, Rehoboth Conservation Commission

Rehoboth Town News

The Clerk’s Corner

Hello All ~ Happy May! – The Spring flowers are here, birds are back, and the leaves have popped ~ thank goodness Spring has arrived! If it is May, it must be Tax Day . . . as a reminder, quarterly taxes were due Wednesday, May 1st ~ thank you.

Annual Town Election ~ Thank You!!! ~

Thank You All Election Workers, Registrars, Police, Fire, Highway, Facilities Management Departments, Constables, Election Equipment Staff, Rehoboth Post Office Staff, Potty-John, Town Clerk’s Office Staff & Voters

Thank you, Rehoboth Reporter, for delaying the printing of the April Reporter to include the 4-2-24 Unofficial Election results. For official results, please check the town website under the Town Clerk’s 4-2-24 Election Results webpage @ https://www.rehobothma.gov/sites/g/ files/vyhlif4911/f/news/tally-ate-4-2-2024-official-rehoboth-with-w-iauxprovisional-4-5-2024. pdf or view under news and announcements @ https://www.rehobothma.gov/home/news/42-2024-annual-town-election-official-certified-election-results . Congratulations to all elected candidates. Thank you to all candidates who ran in the April 2, 2024 Annual Town Election!! Reminder: If you were elected or re-elected to a position and have not been sworn into office, please stop by the Town Clerk’s Office to take your oath of office. No elected or appointed official may take any action until they officially take their oath after being elected or appointed ~ thank you! I would personally like to thank the many people who participated in our April 2, 2024 Annual Town Election and for helping us make sure the election ran smoothly. From the Wardens, Clerks, Inspectors, Constables, Police, Fire, Highway & Facilities Management Departments, Registrars, Set-Up/Take-Down Crew, Rehoboth Post Office and Town Clerk staff, we were able to hold another successful election in our wonderful, centralized polling location in the Francis Farm Museum Building. Thank you for all your hard work. There is no way we could have an election without the wonderful help of you all ~ thank you for all you do for so many! Thank you also to Sara and Billy for the delicious Vinos meals. Thank you all for your support, time, dedication, and true passion of assuring our elections are run safely, professionally, securely, and expeditiously. The Town of Rehoboth is truly fortunate to have the entire Election staff working on their behalf. Finally, thank you to the 1,676 (15.59%) of 10,752 voters who voted in the 4-2-2024 Annual Town Election!

Election Workers Needed

Unfortunately, due to the passing of a number of our election workers and several other election workers needing to take a leave from their inspector positions, or who moved out of town, the Town of Rehoboth finds itself looking for additional election workers. Are you interested in learning how to become an election inspector and joining the team on Election Day? We have a lovely group of individuals who help run our elections; we would love to add you to our team. To learn more about becoming an election worker, please either call our office to discuss 508-252-6502 or visit the Town Clerk’s website @ www.RehobothMA. gov “Election Worker Training”; direct link @ https://www.rehobothma.gov/town-clerk/pages/ election-worker-training-resources If you are interested, please complete a Talent Bank Form located in the front foyer at Town Hall (340 Anawan Street) or direct website link to a fillable PDF at https://www.rehobothma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif4911/f/uploads/tor_talent_bank_form_2023.pdf . Please send completed talent bank form to Town Hall – 340 Anawan Street, Rehoboth. We look forward to working with you in the near future.

What You Need To Know About Absentee Vs. Vote-By-Mail Ballot Applications

As we noticed in the Town Clerk’s Office during the past two 2024 elections, there seems to be a lot of confusion regarding the absentee and/or vote-by-mail application process. Below are a few facts to keep in mind, especially for the upcoming Elections (September 3, 2024 State Primary and November 5, 2024 Presidential/State Elections).

Voters are required to file a new mailed ballot application request every calendar year. In January of each year, you may request all ballots be mailed to you for all elections scheduled from January – December of the current year by completing an Absentee or Vote-By-Mail ballot application.

Rehoboth: Springtime on Winter Street. Photo by Earle Dias.

Seekonk: Seekonk High School’s Class of 2024 Top 5 graduating seniors were recognized at the 35th Annual South Coast Conference Academic All-Star banquet last month.

Laura Schwall

P.O. Box 377 Rehoboth, MA 02769

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Absentee Ballot Application (Must qualify – see qualifications below*) Application @ https://www.sec.state.ma.us/divisions/ elections/download/absentee-ballot-applications/Absentee-Ballot-Application-English. pdf

*You can vote by absentee ballot if you qualify:

• You will be away from your city or town on Election Day

• You have a religious belief that prevents you from voting at your polling location on Election Day

• You have a disability that prevents you from voting at your polling location OR you can Vote by Mail:

• Vote by Mail Ballot Application (No excuse voting – all other voters) Application @ https://www.sec.state.ma.us/divisions/ elections/download/vote-by-mail-applications/vote-by-mail-paper-application-2023. pdf

Please Note: If you choose “All Elections” on your vote-by-mail or absentee application, and you are registered as an unenrolled/independent voter (an unenrolled voter is also known as “independent”; Massachusetts does not have a “independent” party) or registered in any party/political designation other than Democrat, Republican or Libertarian, you will need to identify on your ballot application what “Party” ballot you are requesting for any Primary Election. Your choices in 2024 will be Democrat, Republican, or Libertarian. If you are registered as a Democrat, Republican or Libertarian, you can only select your party ballot during a primary election. All Unenrolled (Independent) voters are required to select the ballot type they would like mailed: Democrat, Republican, Libertarian. Please do not leave the “Primary Ballot” preference section blank. Also, please remember to sign both your application and your ballot envelope when you return your completed ballot. We are required by law to reject any applications or returned ballot envelops without the voter’s signature ~ thank you.

Please Note Also . . . the Elections Division will be mailing Vote by Mail applications (postcards) at least 45 days before every regular state primary, state election, and presidential primary. As per Massachusetts Law, the vote-by-mail postcard applications will be sent to everyone registered to vote by the 60th day before the election who has not already applied for a vote-by-mail ballot. The applications will be pre-addressed to the local election office and postage pre-paid. If you applied for a vote-by-mail ballot in 2024, either via the census application, online application, paper application or State postcard application and did not select “All Elections”, or individual elections: 9/3 State Primary or 11/5 Presidential/State Election, please know that the State will be sending another round of vote-by-mail (VBM) postcards to

you in July for the Primary and again in September for the State/Presidential Election in November. Please do not blame the Clerk’s Office for the multiple vote-by-mail ballot applications, it is a requirement of the law and as mentioned above sent by the Secretary of the Commonwealth – Elections Division. Thank you for voting in the upcoming September 3rd and November 5th Elections!

June 4th (Tuesday) Annual Town Meeting

As you may remember from last year’s Town Meeting, the Town voted to move the Annual Town Meeting from the second Tuesday in May to the first Tuesday of June; therefore, our upcoming Town Meeting will be held on June 4, 2024 at the Francis Farm Community Complex – Museum Building, 27-Francis Farm Road. Voter check-in will begin at 6:00 PM; Town Meeting will begin at 7:00 PM.

If you have any news you would like the Moderator to share with Town Meeting on June 4th, please send to LSchwall@ RehobothMA.gov ~ thank you.

The last day for Voter Registration, to be eligible to participate in the Annual Town Meeting, will be Saturday, May 25, 2024. The Town Clerk’s Office is available from 8:00AM to 5:00PM on May 25th to accommodate last-minute registrations. As always, if you would like to register to vote, or change your party affiliation, you may go to the Secretary of State’s Election Division any time, 24/7, by going to www.RegisterToVoteMA.com and complete the voter registration form online. However, if you were not registered by Saturday, May 25, 2024, you will not be able to vote in the June 4, 2024 Annual Town Meeting. If you would like to check your voter status (active or inactive), you may also go to:

https://www.sec.state.ma.us/VoterRegistrationSearch/MyVoterRegStatus.aspx and see if your registration is active along with what precinct you vote in.

Exciting News – New Bylaw Codification – Ready For Town Meeting Vote

I am truly excited to report that after a year working with General Code, Rehoboth Boards/Committees/Commissions and department heads, Rehoboth’s antiquated paper bylaws are now available online, and in paper format, in an easily searchable format for all residents to use. Back on May 15, 2023 the Board of Selectmen signed an Agreement with General Code to codify Rehoboth’s bylaws. The expense for this project was paid with ARPA Funds; therefore, there is no cost to the Town. Thank you all involved with the Codification process and I would like to especially thank, Dr. Richard Panofsky, who has been my partner throughout the entire codification

process and extremely helpful in bringing this project to a successful completion. Richard, I appreciate your dedication to the project and your many hours of meetings, reviewing and bettering the appearance of our Town bylaws!!!

What does “codification of our bylaws” mean? Oxford defines “cod·i·fi·ca·tion” as “the action or process of arranging laws or rules according to a system or plan”. If you ever tried to search our bylaws online, it is very difficult and frustrating to locate what you are looking for unless you have the exact term detailed in our current bylaws. Good things are coming our way!! General Code was contracted to undertake a complete review of our bylaws to ensure that they do not contain inconsistencies, errors or outdated information that could potentially affect enforceability and alignment with relevant state statutes. Rehoboth residents will be able to find and use our bylaws in a comprehensive, up-to-date and understandable format. Rehoboth staff will be able to gather the information they need to answer questions from both citizens and municipal officials more easily. The new code/bylaws will also improve transparency within our community while accurately reflecting our laws in an understandable format.

The codification process consisted of four review sessions between General Code, Town department heads and Committee/ Board/Commission Chairs (or their designees), prior to Town Meeting approval of the new codification.

Step 1 – Organizational Analysis with Reorganization and Renumbering of the Code/Bylaws – May 2023-July 21, 2023 - The primary purpose of this Organizational Analysis is to establish the organization of the Town Code, to ensure that materials used to prepare the Code are accurate, complete and current; and to review the project scope and deliverables. The proposed Table of Contents was reorganized and renumbered based on feedback received from Rehoboth staff and Boards/Committees/Commissions.

Step 2 – Editorial and Legal Analysis with Manuscript – Within 50-days of the Town submitting the Organizational Analysis and Table of Contents, the document was organized into a logical system of chapters arranged in alphabetical order by subject matter based on feedback in step one. At this phase of the project, General Code also prepared an Editorial and Legal Analysis of our bylaws/ code. General Code provided the Town 191 questions, based on their review of our current bylaws for town officials, including Town Counsel, having final decision-making authority for the resolution of any and all issues detailed in the 191 question Editorial and Legal Analysis. The 191 questions (Editorial/Legal Analysis) included the following:

• Identification of duplications, conflicts, and inconsistencies between or within various sections of the Code.

• Identification of duplications, conflicts, and inconsistencies with Massachusetts statutes.

• Any practical recommendations to make our legislation more enforceable.

• Suggestions regarding fines, fees, and penalties.

• Suggestions on ways to modernize our legislation.

All Town department heads, Board/Committee/Commission Chairs (or their designees) had 45-days to review and opine on the 191 General Code’s Editorial/Legal Analysis questions. All comments by all respondents were recorded in the online version for all town officials to review all comments. Once the document was completed by the January 8, 2024 deadline, the results were submitted to General Code for their incorporation into the “Preliminary Draft” – step three of the project.

Step 3 – Preliminary Draft Review – Within 25-days of the Town’s submission above, General Code prepared a Preliminary Draft incorporating all the comments the subject matter experts reviewed and submitted their revisions if necessary. At this time, Rehoboth had another 20-days to review and make any final changes before moving to the final step four – “Final Draft – Adoption at Town Meeting”.

Step 4 – Final Draft Review for Adoption at Town Meeting –

Within 20-days of the Town’s Preliminary Draft submission, General Code prepared the final draft, which was forwarded to the Town along with proposed warrant articles to be placed before Town Meeting on June 4, 2024. As stated above, all department heads, Committee/Board/Commission Chairs (or their designees) have reviewed and opined on the codification upgrade along with Town Counsel’s review of both the General and Zoning bylaw upgrades. One final review was made by all the participating individuals and public hearings were scheduled, as required by law, with Conservation (May 7, 2024) and Planning Board (May 15, 2024). When the 6-4-2024 Annual Town Meeting Warrant is published, we will post a complete version of the 314-page Final Draft of Rehoboth’s eCode360 Codification along with a “Red-Lined” document of the changes that were made to our current bylaws for your review on the front page of the website under News and Announcements. The same printed documents will be available for review at the Town Clerk’s Office, prior to Town Meeting vote, if you are unable to view online.

Thank you for your part in reviewing Rehoboth’s new codification process of our Town bylaws and I hope you will join me at Town Meeting to vote in Rehoboth’s updated – user friendly – searchable Town bylaws. Once you have time to review the “blackline” codification warrant articles for the 6-4-2024 Annual Town Meeting, please do not hesitate to contact the Town Clerk’s Office with any questions prior to Town Meeting. Thank you for your time and consideration of this wonderful tool for all to enjoy. The General Code eCode360 Codification project is one more way we are trying to make “Town Government” more accessible and transparent for all residents and voters.

Annual Town Census Updates

The Rehoboth Annual Town Census reflects our current population total, which as of April 29, 2024 is “officially” 13,240. That is an increase of 324 residents over last year’s “official” population figure of 12,916. After calls to households from our Registrars, we still have 682 census forms, out of 5,858 forms that were mailed in January, which have not been returned (Precinct I = 162 non respondents; Precinct II = 180 non respondents, Precinct III = 168 and Precinct IV = 172 non respondents). Thank you to the 5,176 residents (88.36%) who have returned their 2024 Town Census forms. For the remaining 11.64%, or 682 residents, please send in your census/street listing forms as soon as possible ~ thank you. I anticipate the Street Listings being available in late May for those of you who like to purchase them for $15. Please call our office before heading up to town hall to see if the Street Listings have arrived so you don’t waste a trip. I would like to thank Assistant Town Clerk, Kerrie Perkins, Administrative Aide, Jennifer Hose and the Registrars Helene Vitale, Jenn Moitozo, and Kathy Conti for your help with processing the 5,000+ census forms we received to date. We all had another busy and successful Census season ~ thank you all!

Please Note: If you received a second “street listing” request from our office, the first notice was your 2024 Census mailer, which arrived in each Rehoboth household during the first week of January 2024. The census mailer arrived with the Town 2024 calendar and various inserts (dog license, Police CodeRed flyer and Ambulance subscription flyer); which was due January 31, 2024. If your census was not returned, by February, our Registrars called and left a message (LM on the 2nd notice) to please return your signed

David J. Ledoux

HARDWOOD FLOORS

DUSTLESS HARDWOOD REFINISHING

serving the community for

Office: 508-399-6211

Cell: 508-272-7729

census as soon as possible. If we did not receive your completed census form in March, we mailed the 2nd request Street listing with the Registrars comments for you to complete, sign and return. The first mailing was from our census printer, the second mailing was from the State VRIS computer, so they do look different but contain the same household information. We thank you for returning your completed census as soon as possible.

2024 Dog Licenses

Dog licenses are due and payable on April 1st of each year. Thank you to the 1,570 dog owners who have already renewed their dog’s 2024 license. Any dog license not paid by May 31st will be assessed a $15.00 per dog late fee in addition to the license fee(s). Yearly we offer dog owners a 60-day grace period to pay their dog’s licenses without charging a late fee; however, we must now impose those fees effective June 1st. You may renew your dog license online (https://permiteyes.us/rehoboth/publichome. php ), by mail, or in person. Currently we have 712 dogs that are unlicensed; we hope to hear from their owners soon. Reminder postcards were sent to unlicensed dog owners the last week of April. If you received a postcard reminder, please renew your dog’s license as soon as possible and definitely by May 31st to avoid the late fees. Thanks so much!

Anyone having questions regarding any of the above information may call the Town Clerk’s Office at 508-252-6502, X3109, X3112 or X3110 or e-mail me at LSchwall@RehobothMA.gov . In closing, Kerrie, Jenn and I wish a Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms in Rehoboth. We also wish everyone a healthy and safe Memorial Day. Reminder, the Memorial Day Parade is scheduled for Monday, May 27, 2024. The Parade will start at 10:15 AM near the Anawan School & American Legion on Bay State Road, travel through the village and end up at the Veterans’ Memorial Gazebo, Redway Plain. Hopefully by Memorial Day the weather will be rain free and absolutely perfect. Most importantly, on Memorial Day, please remember to honor all those who made the ultimate sacrifice to secure our country and protect its citizens. Please have a happy, healthy and safe month of MAY! See you at Town Meeting in June.

~ Laura ~

Rehoboth Nurse’s Notes

Happy Spring, and hope you are all well!

The following is a synopsis of infectious disease that I receive from the CDC when a concerning disease outbreak occurs. None of the reported diseases below are affecting Massachusetts, but if you are planning to visit any of the affected states, which are listed in this synopsis, be aware!

“As of April 18, 2024, a total of 125 measles cases were reported by 18 jurisdictions: Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New York City, New York State, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Washington.

Among the 58 cases reported in 2024, 54 (93%) were linked to international travel. Most cases reported in 2024 have been among children aged 12 months and older who had not received measles-mumpsrubella (MMR) vaccine. Many countries, including travel destinations such as Austria, the Philippines, Romania, and the United Kingdom, are experiencing measles outbreaks. To prevent measles infection and reduce the risk of community transmission

from importation, all U.S. residents traveling internationally, regardless of destination, should be current on their MMR vaccinations” https://emergency.cdc.gov/han/index.asp

I’m sure you have seen the following in news media, but I want to provide you information and resources on the highly contagious Avian ‘flu or HPAI, H5N1 virus

Because we are in part an agricultural community, I think having accurate information and a resource will help us to make informed and evidence-based decisions regarding keeping our farm animals safe.

“Since late March 2024, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and Drug Administration, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, state veterinary and public health officials and the National Animal Health Laboratory Network (NAHLN) laboratories have been investigating the emergence of the HPAI, H5N1 virus in dairy cows.

As of April 24, 2024, USDA has confirmed HPAI H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b virus detections on 33 dairy cattle premises in 8 states (Kansas, Idaho, Michigan, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, South Dakota, Texas). USDA has also confirmed - based on specific phylogenetic evidence and epidemiological information - that 8 poultry premises in 5 states (Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico and Texas) have also been infected with the same HPAI H5N1virus genotype detected in dairy cattle’ https://emergency.cdc.gov/han/2024/han00506.asp

Next, I want to mention what is being discussed as the ‘new’ COVID vaccination. More accurately, what is being encouraged is that, if you received your most recent COVID vaccination in September 2023, you are now eligible for another COVID vaccination. It is our understanding that the trial for the combined vaccine (COVID and ‘flu in one) is on-going. There isn’t a hard date on its release at this time.

As I drive around in our community, I am noticing our recreational fishing people! Be careful for mosquitos. Peak fishing times are early morning and later in the day….prime mosquito biting times, so cover up and use an insect repellants. Please use the link below to make an informed decision on the product that is right for you. The link is to an EPA site: https://www.epa.gov/insect-repellents/using-insect-repellentssafely-and-effectively

As many of you know, States are receiving opioid abatement funds from the recent national settlement. I’d like to ask what our community feels would be a good use of the funds and to hear the voice of all those in our community affected by this national crisis. 1 in 4 people have been impacted by use of, or as a result of opioid use in one’s family or among one’s friends. I will be posting a survey on my web page the 2nd week of May. Please consider filling it out so that I may know what our community needs and wants to help with this crisis.

We continue to run our BP screening clinic every Monday at the Senior Center. It is also a time to chat with the Public Health Nurse about any health concerns you may have.

I am now offering the Caregiver Support Group on Wednesdays from 7:00p-7:45p, via Zoom. The link is posted weekly on the Public Health Nurse page within the Town of Rehoboth website. You may also e-mail me at ghamel@rehobothma.gov for the link.

The podiatrist will be here on July 18th from 9a-12n Please call us at 508-962-4558 to book an appointment.

Lastly, don’t forget to check the Senior Center/COA activities noted in their newsletter on page 51. Such healthy and fun activities and really great meals!!

Be well, all and be safe!

Sincerely, Geri

Spring Bird Walk and Exploration at Reynolds Avenue Property

May 11, 2024 10 am – 12 noon

Raindate: May 19, 2024

Bring your binoculars and curiosity to Rehoboth Land Trust’s Reynold’s Avenue Conservation Area, a 34-acre parcel consisting of mostly hardwood uplands and a few acres of wetlands. May is a wonderful time to see and hear birds migrating through Rehoboth as they head north, and to welcome those who will stay and nest here. A loop trail in the forest passes through some wet spots, so be sure to wear sturdy footwear! Naturalist leaders will help participants learn about native flora and fauna in the oak forest. If you don’t already use the free Merlin app on your smartphone to identify bird calls, download it before you come, and we’ll help you learn how to use it! Children are welcome.

Please register for this hike which will be limited to two groups of 10 each. Parking is limited.

Lisa Daft

Dr. Lisa Daft and Dr. Jared Stubbs Are

announce Dr. Chris Vanderpool has joined

RSVP with your name, number of people, and phone number to info@rehobothlandtrust.net or call Carol Entin at 508-415-6065.

Selectmen Remove Vernal Pool Protection Zone Bylaw Article from Warrant

At the April 22 Board of Selectmen’s meeting the Selectmen removed the Vernal Pool Protection Zone (VPPZ) Bylaw Article from the Annual Town Meeting Warrant. One reason cited by Selectman Rob Johnson was that the Massachusetts Wetland protection Act (WPA) covers vernal pools. This is not accurate, only the vernal pools found in wetlands are protected, which is a small percentage of the vernal pools found in Rehoboth. The vast majority of vernal pools are either Isolated Vegetated Wetlands (IVW) or Isolated Land Subject to Flooding (ILSF) which are not jurisdictional and therefore not protected if they contain less than one quarter acre foot of water and can therefore be filled without replicating elsewhere. If they hold more than one quarter acre foot of water they can be filled as long as the water storage capacity is replaced elsewhere on the property. Neither of the larger IVWs nor ILSFs have buffer zones.

Because many species of vertebrates and non-vertebrates breed only in vernal pools, and the pools are essential for the survival of several endangered species found in Rehoboth, the bylaw will be resubmitted for the Special Town Meeting this fall.

Robert Materne, Chairman, Rehoboth Conservation Commission

Shop Assistant – Part Time

Position Type: Part Time 10 – 15 hours per week

Compensation: TBD Stop by in person

Location: 514 Winthrop St. Rehoboth

RDL Equipment Sales and Services is a locally owned small business selling and servicing commercial and residential mowers, as a well as an extensive variety of outdoor power equipment. Located in Rehoboth, MA, we provide services throughout all of Bristol County and beyond.

Responsibilities:

• Clean, prep, and organize showroom.

• Empty trash and recycling, break down cardboard boxes.

• Pull start equipment, drive and move equipment, as needed.

• Assist customers with equipment, when needed.

• Communicate with customers and coworkers in a professional, courteous, and friendly manner.

• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Some knowledge of basic outdoor equipment is helpful.

• Some lifting is necessary.

• Be able to work independently, productively, and efficiently. 514 Winthrop Street Rehoboth, MA 02769-1223 508-252-4990 www.RDLEquipmentSales.com

Rehoboth Animal Shelter News

Everyone at the Rehoboth Animal Shelter is happy that last month’s featured cats have been adopted, we and hope that our current residents will be as lucky. Patience and Prudence are grey tabby females who will be spayed very soon. There are also a few other adults and kittens. To make an appointment or to report a lost or found pet, please call 508-252-5421, ext. 126, and leave a message.

The Tone and ResponseEMS week

May 19 – 25 2024

The day shift is from 7:00 AM to 5 PM. There are three people here for this day shift, two Paramedics and one EMT, (Emergency Medical Technician).

They are going over the ambulance - A1. A1 is an Advance Life Support ambulance with a “box” which is the patient’s compartment, mounted on a truck chassis. Going over this ambulance means checking everything. Everything, the oil, and whatever else

•

is under the hood is checked. And is noted as being checked. Then the outside of the truck, the tires, lights, the wind shield wipers are checked. All the doors including the cabinet door are checked. In the cab they check the computer, radio, etc. The bay where the ambulance is garaged has the necessary electrical and exhaust hookups. The electrical hookup runs the lights etc. in the patient compartment. All the equipment is checked. Everything is counted and a list is made of what is needed to be replenished. The paramedics are responsible for checking the narcotics in the locked box.

The truck is washed and checked for any dents and scrapes. Any mechanical issues found along with any dents and scrapes are reported to the Ambulance Maintenance Committee.

These procedures and more happen at ever shift change. So, the crew is always prepared.

The ambulance crew relies on the Dispatcher, who receives the 911 calls and “tones” for the ambulance. The Dispatcher gives the location/address and the type of the emergency and any pertinent information regarding the person or persons.

If there is a call or a run, the ambulance crew has so much more to do besides the priority of caring for the patient and the transportation to a medical facility. There is documentation regarding a run.

This is when having a well-researched computer and computer programs are essential in creating the important documentation.

The crew has a day room which has a kitchen wall: sink, stove, microwave, storage and a refrigerator. A large table with four chairs, a television on the wall over the table. There are five recliners, a table for computer work and a bulletin board. With the establishment of 24/7 accommodations were created: two bedrooms with bunk beds, a fan and television. There are two bathrooms with showers. Then there is an office and a supply room. The quarters require housekeeping, which is shared by the crew.

The Rehoboth Ambulance crews are ready, trained and well prepared. If you have an emergency call 911

How to Keep Your Yard Pollinator & Wildlife Friendly

Most homeowners know that healthy pollinators are needed to pollinate their vegetable gardens, flowers, and fruit trees. Some plants are wind pollinated such as the white pines that sometimes overwhelm our yards with bright yellow pollen in the spring. However, native pollinators such as bees, flies, butterflies, and moths are key for a healthy garden and yard.

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Just as important, our native songbirds need healthy and abundant insect populations to raise their nestlings. Songbirds come to our backyard feeders to devour bird seed, but they depend upon an abundance of healthy insects to raise their nestlings. Baby birds need the protein of insects to grow into healthy adults.

Here are some suggestions to consider when managing your yard:

Plant mainly local native flowers, shrubs, and trees. Native pollinators have not evolved with cultivars and ornamental plants. Reduce areas of empty lawn. Grass is a desert for most local wildlife, and costs more energy, chemicals, and time to maintain. Native shrubs require less maintenance and are adapted to local conditions.

Avoid or limit pesticide use that kills nontarget insects.

Plant native oaks, one of the best trees to provide habitat for insects and birds.

In the fall, don’t be too much of a “neat nick.” Leave a few brush piles and logs to provide habitat for insects, as well as cover for wildlife such as toads and salamanders. Dead trees (in safe locations) provide nest cavities and food for insects and birds. Goldfinches will thank you for not cutting the seed heads of flowers such as purple coneflowers. Leaves in flower and shrub beds will become home to many pollinators over the winter. Removing all your leaves will remove valuable habitat.

For more information on how to provide important pollinator and wildlife friendly habitat, contact the Rehoboth Land Trust at info@rehobothlandtrust.net. You can also check out Professor Doug Tallamy’s book Nature’s Best Hope from Blanding Library. The Xerces Society, dedicated to invertebrate conservation, has many resources as well at www.xerces.org.4

Memorial Day Parade May 27, 2024

I would like to thank you all who participated in last year’s Rehoboth Memorial Day Parade. Rehoboth Memorial Day Parade is being conducted annually here in the town of Rehoboth along Bay State Road. If you haven’t participated in the past, please contact Rehoboth’s Director of Veterans Service officer. My office would love to have you in our Memorial Day Parade This May 27th 2024. Please call 508-252-4467 or e-mail Jake at veterans@rehobothma.gov

The Parade will start no later than 10:15 AM near the Anawan School & the American Legion on Bay State Road. The parade will travel through the village along the Red White & Blue painted lines on Bay State Road and end up at the Veterans’ Memorial Gazebo, Redway Plain. You will see 68 3’x 5’ American Flags on the utility poles along the entire parade route from early May through late July. The Memorial Day Ceremony will commence at around 11:30 AM followed by dedication for all our Fallen Comrades who’ve given the ultimate sacrifice and for those who have fallen since last Memorial Day with a ceremony ending at noon with the lowering and raising of the American Flag.

After the Parade, please come on over to the American Legion and join our Veterans for some hotdogs, hamburgers, and snacks. Please respond to the Director of Veteran Services Office if you’re interested in participating in this year’s Memorial Day Parade at 508-252-4467 or e-mail Jake at veterans@rehobothma.gov

Thank you, Rehoboth, for your outstanding support over the years. -Jake Kramer

Our mission at Rehoboth People Have a Heart (501(c) (3)) is to raise funds for local Rehoboth residents in need, whether it be due to illness, an accident or an unforeseen incident We have been able to donate our funds towards Cancer treatments so families can spend more time together, car maintenance so residents can get to work and support themselves and their family financially, a new stove for someone so they can cook hot meals and so much more. Anything big or small, we are here to help, with the amazing assistance of our volunteers and donors

Stay up to date with our newsletter.

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Mills Praises Vadnais

By Joe Siegel

Rehoboth Selectman Lenny Mills praised the leadership of Chairman Skip Vadnais at Monday’s Board meeting. “I think people are really working together well,” Mills said. “Trying to come in with no agendas and trying to do what’s best for the town in every facet of the different departments. Every one of them. And I think that’s a direct credit to your leadership. When I talk to different people in town, they say that and they sincerely mean it.”

Mills noted the level of respect his fellow board members have for each other and for members of other town committees.

“We disagree like gentlemen, ladies and gentlemen, and we work things out. We don’t let our egos get in the way too much,” Mills added.

Vadnais Plans Health Board Changes

By Joe Siegel

Rehoboth Selectman Chair Skip Vadnais plans to overhaul the town’s Health and Human Services Advisory Board. The Board was created for the purpose of handling the Covid 19 pandemic in 2020.

“We needed technical advice that was not available,” Vadnais explained at Monday’s meeting. “Our Board of Health was unable to assist us in this. They had various backgrounds but none of them were medical.”

The Advisory Board provided guidance on safe distancing, the closure of certain town buildings, as well as the wearing of masks.

Vadnais said the information from Dr. (Robert) Lambe and Dr. (Bruce) Thayer was “invaluable.” “We felt safe and they guided us through (the pandemic) without any major repercussions. We had little outbreaks but we certainly weren’t hit the way other communities were.”

Elizabeth Doyle, the head of the Health and Human Services department will now serve as the Chairperson of the Advisory Board. Lambe recently resigned from the Board after serving as the Chairperson.

There would also be a member from the Board of Health and the Council on Aging board, a medical professional, a health care professional, and a representative of the Rehoboth schools.

Vadnais acknowledged that although Covid is no longer a major health threat, there is still the possibility of other viruses being spread, mainly due to the influx of migrants.

“We have a lot of (unvaccinated) people coming into our society,” Vadnais added.

Beer Can Museum Event Benefits

Rehoboth Veterans

By Joe Siegel

A Pop-Up Beer Can Museum was featured at the American Legion Post 302 on Saturday. Proceeds from the event were designated for the Veterans Fuel Assistance program.

Kevin Logan, who operates the Beer Can Museum and Hall of Fame in his house in East Taunton, provided attendees with a history of beer cans. Logan is a long-time collector. He has over 2500 cans saved.

One of cans on display was used as a prop in a John Wayne movie. There was also a can of Billy beer, named after President Jimmy Carter’s brother Billy. The brand enjoyed widespread popularity upon its release.

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A Memorial for Ali Solas

By Joe Siegel

Friends and members of the Solas family gathered on Saturday, April 27 for the dedication of a memorial to Ali Solas, the daughter of Selectman George Solas and his wife Lissa.

Ali was eight years old when she died following a car accident on Route 44 in October 1979.

The Rehoboth Garden Club made the arrangements to place the memorial near the Council on Aging building at Francis Farm.

A dogwood tree was planted in Ali’s honor. Members of the Board of Selectmen were also present to pay their respects.

Paul Nunes, a member of the Garden Club, said the dogwood tree stood for “resilience and beauty.”

A dogwood tree was planted at Francis Farm in memory of Ali Solas

Solas Praises D-R Leadership

By Joe Siegel

Rehoboth Selectman George Solas had some kind words to say about the leadership of the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District Monday.

“I think it’s so important for people to understand how the attitude and the respect that our schools are getting outside from where we live,” Solas said. “We’re growing past what we’ve gone through.”

Superintendent Bill Runey has been with the district for nearly two years.

At a meeting with the Board in 2022, Runey explained his focus was to work on rebuilding trust between the regional school district and the town of Rehoboth.

Last weekend, Steve Donovan, Principal of Beckwith Middle School, was named Principal of the Year, and Beckwith teacher Sarah Boutsady was honored as Teacher of the Year by The Massachusetts Congress of Parents and Teachers, also known as the Massachusetts State PTA.

DR Fights for More State Funds

By Joe Siegel

The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District’s fight for increased state fighting appears to be making progress.

“Today, I share that your communications with Representative (Patricia) Haddad (Dighton) and Representative (Steven) Howitt (Rehoboth) were productive as we just learned that the House Ways and Means Committee is enhancing Chapter 70 funding in its proposed budget,” Superintendent Bill Runey announced in a letter to parents Wednesday.

“We encouraged legislators in the House to emphasize education as a priority and grasp the harsh reality of underfunding in the wake of inflation and the expiration of ESSER funds,” Runey stated. “As stakeholders in our student’s education, we refused to accept passivity in the face of adversity. We sought change to uphold the promise of a brighter future for our youth.”

Last month, the School Committee approved a budget of $51.7 million for FY’2025.

Runey had initially presented a $52.1 million budget to the committee in February.

The new budget removes security enhancements and what Runey calls “non-essential technology purchases.”

14 teaching positions had been cut, but following an outcry from students, two middle school physical education teachers were reinstated by the school committee.

“This is a somber time,” Runey said at the March 12 school committee meeting. “Anger and angst are understandable and while this is of little solace, this is a statewide problem.”

The district is dealing with a $140,000 reduction from the state for regional school transportation.

In addition, D-R’s Chapter 70 funding was increased by “one half of one percent,” Runey noted. That amount is $70,000 more than the current fiscal year. The district has eight more students enrolled compared to the previous school year. He encouraged parents to voice their concerns to state legislators.

Runey remains cautiously optimistic about the state’s support for public education.

“While it is too soon to bank on this increase, we can celebrate that we were change agents. If this comes to fruition, it won’t solve all of our problems, but we will be able to regroup,” he added.

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The Seekonk Scene

From the Clerk

I think Spring has finally sprung. Forsythia shrubs are blooming bright yellow flowers, days are getting longer, and the temperatures are warmer. It is a great time of the year to explore our town’s wonderful trails:

- Runnins River Trail

- Seekonk Meadows

- Turner Reservoir

- Burrs Pond

- Martin Wildlife Refuge, Caratunk Wildlife Refuge

- Cushing Conservation Area

Our newest trail, Young Farm/ Peck Chaffee Meadow Trail was added last year on Chestnut Street. Also, the Conservation Department, with help from Public Works, will soon be adding the Spring storybook, “The Rainbow Fish,” to the Gammino Pond Conservation Area trails on Newman Ave.

Annual Spring Town Meeting

The Annual Spring Town meeting will be held on May 13, 2024 at 7:00PM in the auditorium at the Seekonk High School. Checkin begins at 6:00PM. If you would like to vote at the Spring Town Meeting, the last day for voter registration is May 3rd at 5:00PM. Registration can be completed on-line at https://www.sec.state. ma.us/OVR/ or in-person at the Town Clerk’s office. Please come out and participate in this particularly important meeting. Your voice matters!

Memorial Day Parade

The Seekonk Memorial Day Parade will be held on Saturday, May 25th. The parade route begins at Seekonk High School at 10:00AM and ends at the Hurley Middle School. A Memorial Day ceremony will be held at the Seekonk Veterans Memorial Park immediately following the conclusion of the parade. Please come out and show your support by honoring all those who have served our country.

In observance of Memorial Day, the Town Offices will be closed on Monday, May 27th. We wish everyone a healthy and safe Memorial Day. It is a day to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the United States Armed Forces. In the words of Sgt. Major Bill Paxton, “May we never forget our fallen comrades. Freedom isn’t free.”

Reminders:

Dog licenses and the annual census forms are now past due. Please be sure to renew your dog licenses by May 31st to avoid incurring a late fee(s).

In closing, I want to take this opportunity to thank the voters of Seekonk for the opportunity to serve as your new Town Clerk. To those who voted for me, thank you for your confidence in my knowledge and abilities. For those who did not, I hope to earn your vote at the next election. To all the candidates who ran in the election, I thank you for your courage and commitment to seek public office and serve the residents of Seekonk.

~Kristen

Seekonk Housing Authority receives funding to hire Resident Services Coordinator

Position will support residents on quality-of-life issues, connect them with local resources

Boston — Dean of the Massachusetts Senate Marc R. Pacheco (D-Taunton) announces that the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities has awarded a $60,000 grant for the Seekonk Housing Authority to hire a Resident Service Coordinator.

The Resident Service Coordinator is an integral piece of the property management team and links residents with communitybased services to maintain and improve their quality of life, as well as collaborating with residents and local resources to build healthier, stronger communities through everything from health and wellness initiatives to workforce development.

“This position will allow the Seekonk Housing Authority to provide additional support to residents and connect them with the services in the community that can improve and enrichtheir lives,” said Senator Pacheco.

Up to $55,000 of funds will be used toward staffing, with up to $5,000 allocated for flexible funds to be used for program costs, partner payments or small costs that need to be paid to remove barriers for residents to obtain the services they need.

“I want to congratulate the Seekonk Housing Authority on their efforts to add a Resident Service Coordinator to their staff,” said Senator Pacheco. “This addition will allow SHA to enhance their service to their residents and build a stronger community.

Seekonk Animal Shelter News Meet Ricky!

He is a 4 year old sensitive soul who recently lost his quiet home. Ricky would be okay with having cat friends who can help him come out of his shell. This sweet boy will make a great companion for someone willing to give him the time and patience he needs to trust that he is in his forever home. He is timid when meeting new people but once he knows you he can’t get enough attention and kneads nonstop! Oh, and to show how much he enjoys being pet…he will drool! He is a big fan of squeeze up treats and lounging in his cat tree. Do you have room in your heart and home for Ricky? Call us at 508-336-6663 with questions or to set up a time to meet him.

Ricky is looking for his fur-ever home

Seekonk is “Simply the Best!”

Stop & Shop on Newman Avenue asked shoppers to buy a can of food to “Fill A Truck” for the Doorways Food Pantry; they responded by donating 2,278 cans to help neighbors in need.

Once again, the people of Seekonk proved to be “simply the best!” When the Stop & Shop on Newman Ave in north Seekonk asked their customers to help the local food pantry, they responded with a resounding “Yes”! Store manager Sherry Olson had the notion to run a food drive to “Fill a Truck for Doorways”, and she ordered 20 cases of needed canned goods. Her customers bought them out in less than 24 hours! She reordered, and then reordered again; in a little over a week, Stop & Shop customers purchased 183 cases of canned goods for donation to the local food pantry – a total of 2,278 cans. These groceries were items in short supply at the food bank, and the outpouring of generous support will help fill the cupboards of homes throughout our community. Thank you to the management and employees of Stop & Shop who undertook this wonderful project, and thank you to the shoppers who filled a truck for Doorways.

Empty Bowls Benefit Concert for Doorways Food Pantry

The Seekonk High School community worked together to stage a benefit concert to fight hunger.

On April 26th, the first annual Empty Bowls Benefit Concert was held at Seekonk High School. The musical concert featured the Seekonk High School Jazz Band as well as the school’s favorite rock band, Fat Moose. Available for purchase at the concert were hundreds of student handmade ceramic bowls, with all proceeds going to Seekonk’s food pantry, Doorways. The handmade bowls are a stark reminder that many in our community face an empty bowl on a daily basis.

The event was broadly supported by the Seekonk High School community, with half-a-dozen school clubs participating in coordination with the music department and the art department. Jackie Glum, who initiated the Empty Bowls project, expressed her delight at how the whole school came together to create the event. The event was a huge success, very well attended and raised over

$1,400 to combat food uncertainty in our town. On behalf of Doorways, we thank Mrs. Glum, the students and staff of Seekonk High School, and the attendees for their support of our neighbors in need.

Empty bowls 2024

Sarah Newkirk Awarded Mary C. Wilson Community Conservation Award at Seekonk Land Trust Annual Meeting

On April 16, 2024 the Seekonk Land Conservation Trust (SLCT) held its Annual Meeting at the Seekonk Public Library. The event was well attended by over 35 people who attentively listened as Tom Webb, SLCT president, presented a short slide show detailing the history and gave an annual update of Land Trust properties in Seekonk. Of particular note he cited that the SLCT now has 875 acres of protected land including 330 acres owned by the Land Trust and 348 acres in Conservation Restrictions which remain privately owned but are protected from development. The balance of 108 acres is comprised of farmlands protected by Agricultural Preservation Restrictions.

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Sarah Newkirk, the founding director of Osamequin Farm, was awarded the annual Mary C. Wilson Award for her significant contributions to conservation in Seekonk. Osamequin Farm, located on Walnut Street, is a community space and educational nonprofit stewarding several hundred acres of conserved farmland, forest, and wetlands. Under Sarah’s guidance, Osamequin has transitioned from a private to a public space, and additionally facilitates peer to peer learning among farmers of all kinds in our region. Sarah has an interest in food ethics and a background in agriculture having worked as a vegetable farmer and an organizer with the Young Farmer Network.

In accepting the award, Sarah noted that her time at Osamequin has broadened the scope of her interest in responsible stewardship of the land. She loves finding new ways to interest all kinds of people, of all ages from all backgrounds in deepening their relationship to the land, thinking about how their actions big and small can make a difference, and appreciating how special it is to have access to open space!

In his award presentation Webb stated “What a wonderful way to honor the work of Sarah and the Osamequin community bringing like minded people together to promote and participate in community conservation initiatives.”

Sarah Newkirk of Osamequin Farm receives the Mary Wilson Award presented by Thompson Webb, President of Seekonk Land Conservation Trust

Tom Webb conducts slide show detailing history and an annual update of Land Trust properties

*Sustainable Seekonk*

The Seekonk Recycling Committee would like to remind residents of all the great recycling and sustainability programs and resources we have available in town:

Seekonk DPW (871 Taunton Ave) has textile collection bins and a Terracycle collection bin in the parking lot, and rechargeable batteries collection bin and eye glasses collection inside the lobby. They also accept fluorescent light bulbs-including CFL bulbs and tubes under 4ft. These should never go in your curbside bins! Stores like Lowes, Home Depot, Best Buy and Staples also accept most of these items as well. Single use-alkaline batteries, incandescent bulbs and LED bulbs can go in the trash.

Seekonk Transfer Station/TARF (351 Fall River Ave) is open year round Mon-Fri 8am-3pm for drop off of yard waste (leaves, grass, twigs). Upcoming Bulky Waste drop off days at TARF are May 11, July 12, Aug 10 -buy a pass at DPW for $25 to bring items that are too big to fit in blue bags/curbside trash bins. But please try to pass things along for reuse before trashing them! Bulky Waste pickup continues on the 2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month for furniture and misc bulky items ($5), metal, electronic ($5) & appliance ($12.50) pickup is the 3rd Tuesday, and mattresses ($65) are the 3rd Wednesday. Buy stickers at DPW.

Food Waste Compost Collection at TARF: The Recycling Committee is sponsoring a collection bin at TARF from Black Earth Compost, residents can bring their household food waste and deposit in the bins. Accepted items include: fruits & vegetables, egg shells, bread, cereal, meat & bones, wooden chopsticks & toothpicks, coffee grinds & filters and more. See BlackEarthCompost.com for a full list and tips on collection and transport. You can dump food waste directly into the bins from your home container or use certified compostable bags-no plastic bags please! Please reach out to the Recycling Coordinator at DPW for more information about this program.

Earth Day is Every Day! We had over 100 participants in our annual Litter Patrol town clean up-and many were sent on their way with reusable reachers/pickers that can continue to be used throughout the year for cleaning up around town. If you’d like to organize additional clean up groups, please reach out to the Recycling Coordinator at DPW for supplies and logistics.

Interested in a Recycling Audit? The Recycling Committee is offering appointments for committee members to stop by your home and go over items in your bin to ensure the correct items are going where they should go. We know it’s hard to keep track of what items are recyclable or not-so we’d like to help in real time with real items that you use everyday. No shame-just learning! Reach out to the Recycling Coordinator at DPW or the Recycling Committee on Facebook to book your appointment.

Don’t Trash It! Consider donating items that are still usableSavers in North Attleboro has easy drive up drop off service, Angel’s Care Closet takes a wide variety of items or you can visit WWW. DONATIONTOWN.ORG for a list of local services that will pickup items from your home. If items are broken or no longer usable, stores like Staples, Lowes, Home Depot and Best Buy take back all kinds of electronics, bulbs, ink/toner, batteries, cell phone cases, pens and markers and more. Use the Recycle Locator at CTA.tech website to find all your nearby options for electronics. If you’re interested in a town wide CURB ALERT day-where everyone can put out items for free and you can plan to drive around to “shop” for items you want or need, please reach out to the Recycling Committee, our Recycling Coordinator at DPW, or Sustainable Seekonk on Facebook.

The Library of Things- did you know the Seekonk Library has way more than books? With things like karaoke machines, metal detectors, stud finders, instruments, cameras, computers & more, it’s an amazing way to borrow what you need & save money! What

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items would you like to see added? Reach out to the Recycling Coordinator at DPW, or the library with ideas.

Recycling Tip of The Month: Sustainable ShoutOut to The Old Grist Mill Tavern- Thank you for using compostable GreenWare clamshells for take-out! These containers can be composted in the bins at TARF and help to reduce waste. Traditional black plastic take-out containers cannot be recycled or composted-they must be placed in the trash. Please remember to recycle right, and…. Reduce-Reuse-Recycle (in THAT order!)

Regional Initiative Generates Public Interest in a Sowams Heritage Area

More than 130 people attended the Community Conversations presented by the Sowams Heritage Area Project at the Seekonk Public Library, in Seekonk, MA on March 26, 2024, and Mt. Hope Farm in Bristol, RI on March 27, 2024. Both events were packed with people from the region known as Sowams, the ancestral homeland of the Massasoit Ousamequin, who welcomed the Pilgrims in 1621. They came to discuss the future of the proposed Sowams National Heritage Area (NHA) and its impact on the nine towns/cities in the NHA study area: Barrington, Bristol, East Providence, a portion of Providence, and Warren, RI, as well as Rehoboth, Seekonk, Somerset, and Swansea, MA.

“The ideas were flying,” said Laura McNamara, Director of Events and Community Engagement for the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council, who was one of the Sowams Project Steering Committee members tasked with recording one of the break-out sessions. “There was an impressive and diverse range of people that included environmentalists, historians, Tribal members, business owners, preservationists, religious leaders, artists and writers, civil servants, and two toddlers!”

This was the second of three rounds of public conversations that are integral to the development of an NHA feasibility study, which the National Park Service recommends when seeking designation by Congress as a National Heritage Area. The discussions were organized in a SOAR analysis, focusing on the region’s Strengths, Opportunities, Aspirations, and desired Results.

There was broad consensus in both sessions that as the setting for one of America’s origin stories, the history of Sowams is significant and compelling. Many saw opportunities in taking advantage of the region’s vibrant arts community to help tell the story of Sowams.

Looking towards the future, the group envisioned a region whose land, water and heritage sites are preserved for the next generation, so families and especially teenagers will understand what happened on this landscape. As one participant said, “Years from now, Sowams can be a place to hear a story that no one else can tell.”

Highlights of the sessions and a full list of the discussion notes can be found on sowams.org website. The next and last Community Conversation will be in held in the fall when the planning team presents the draft feasibility study for public comment.

About the Sowams Heritage Area Project:

Led by a regional coalition of town planners, tourism entities, historical societies, environmentalists, Tribal leaders, and other volunteers, the Sowams Heritage Area Project is undertaking an initiative to develop a National Heritage Area (NHA) in Sowams, the ancestral homeland of the Massasoit Ousamequin who welcomed the Pilgrims in 1621. NHAs protect and promote a region’s history, heritage and culture and use those assets to advance local economies through tourism, recreation and community development. For more information, go to https://sowams.org.

Consultant Peter Samuel leads a Community Conversation with more than seventy people who gathered at the Seekonk Public Library on March 26th to discuss the future of a proposed Sowams National Heritage Area. A summary of the highlights of the discussion is available at Sowams.org/soar-community-conversation-highlights/

Seekonk to Keep Early Voting

By Joe Siegel

The Select Board voted Wednesday to keep early voting for town elections.

Town Clerk Kristen L’Heureux said the cost of printing mail-in ballots and paying for poll workers was approximately $1400. Over 300 residents voted early for the April town election.

“I think it’s a benefit to the people who cannot make it to town meeting,” said member Michael Healy. “It gives people the opportunity to come in here (to vote) Monday through Friday. For the cost, I think it’s well worth it.”

“The more opportunities we give people to vote, I’m definitely in favor,” said member Pam Pozzi.

L’Heureux said the deadline to register to vote for any resident who wants to participate in the Spring town meeting is May 3.

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Seekonk School Budget Approved

By Joe Siegel

The Seekonk School FY’25 budget was approved by a vote of 3 to 2 at Monday’s school committee meeting. The total budget is $32.7 million, a 3.1 percent increase compared to the current fiscal year’s budget.

Chairperson Meaghan Mahoney, Kyle Juckett, and Alicia MacManus voted in favor, with Lisa Rizzo and Emily Field in opposition.

At a previous meeting, Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell noted 3.5 positions would be eliminated, including a part-time librarian at Hurley Middle School, two teachers at Seekonk High School, and one community coach in the Transitions Academy.

In addition, Kidwell said vacant positions including instructional aides at Hurley and the high school and one teacher at both schools and Aitken elementary, will not be filled.

“Whether you vote (on the budget) or not tonight, a sizable number of (Seekonk Educators Association) members will be getting pink slips later this week because that is the contractual deadline for them to be informed that we may not be able to fund their positions next year,” Kidwell noted. “We’re trying not to cause anyone any undue stress, but we have to provide this appropriate notification contractually.”

There was discussion about potentially larger class sizes at Aitken Elementary School as a result of condensing sections in Grade 4.

“I still have a concern about class sizes,” said member Emily Field. “I’m still not comfortable with 26 plus students in a class. I think we need to collaborate on this more. I think the whole committee has given guidance that we want to keep class sizes down. I think we’re not all on the same page quite yet.”

The budget will be voted on at the Spring Town Meeting in May. The town warrant is closed, but Kidwell explained that it’s possible a different budget figure could be proposed from the floor.

“We can reconfigure this in different ways in the foreseeable future as needed,” Juckett said.

“This is a snapshot, this was a moment that allows us to take some steps forward, but it’s not the end of the story,” Kidwell added.

Seekonk to Decide 2025 Budget

By Joe Siegel

Voters at the May 13 Town Meeting will be asked to approve a FY’25 budget of $72.1 million. That figure represents a 3.7 percent increase over the current fiscal year’s budget.

$34.3 million has been designated for education. That figure represents a 2.9 percent increase, which includes Tri County Regional Vocational High School as well as Bristol Agricultural High School.

Public Safety funding, which includes Police, Fire, Animal Control, and the Building Department, will be increased by 8.5 percent for a total of $12.3 million.

The Police Department budget is $5.6 million, a 4.8 percent increase over the current fiscal year. That allows for 44 full time employees including the Police Chief and a Deputy Chief.

The Fire Department budget is $4.9 million, a 13.5 percent

increase over the current fiscal year. That allows for 45 full time employees including a Fire Chief, a Deputy Chief, two captains and one EMS Coordinator.

Other articles include:

To see if the Town will vote to establish a special purpose stabilization fund, to be known as the Dr. Kevin M. Hurley Middle School HVAC Stabilization Account, for the sum of $50,000.00.

To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to enter into a five (5) year contract, with five one (1) year renewal options, commencing on July 1, 2024 with MTG Disposal to provide curbside solid waste and recyclables collection for Town residential units.

To see if the Town will vote to create a PEG Cable Access and Cable Related Fund. Local access channel TV9 suspended operations on April 1 and has been negotiating with the Town on a new Access Agreement.

There are also a number of zoning bylaw amendments on the warrant.

The meeting begins at 7 pm at Seekonk High School. The entire warrant can be viewed on the town website: www.seekonkma.gov.

Debt Exclusion on April 2025 ballot

By Joe Siegel

The Seekonk Select Board voted 3 to 2 Wednesday to place a debt exclusion question on the April 2025 town election ballot. Members Chris Zorra, Michael Healy, and Justin Sullivan were in favor, with Chairperson Michelle Hines and Pam Pozzi in opposition.

On April 1, the debt exclusion was defeated with 1101 in favor and 1164 in opposition. The non-binding referendum was to approve a temporary tax increase to pay the town’s share of the new Tri-County Regional Vocational High School.

Town Administrator Shawn Cadime said if the debt exclusion was rejected, over $1 million would be cut from the town’s operating budget, which would impact several departments, including the schools. “We have

to figure out a way to educate the townspeople about this project,” Healy noted. “I truly believe it should be a debt exclusion.”

Hines had hoped to place the issue before the voters in November, which would likely feature a larger turnout due to the Presidential race.

Zorra said the additional time would allow residents to become better informed about the significance of the debt exclusion.

Last October, voters from 11 communities across three counties approved funding construction for the $286 million project.

The regional school district is composed of Franklin, Medfield, Medway, Millis, Norfolk, North Attleboro, Plainville, Sherborn, Walpole, and Wrentham.

Some reimbursement of the cost would be paid by the Massachusetts School Building Association. The remaining $200 million will be paid by the 11-member communities.

The meeting can be viewed on the Town of Seekonk’s You Tube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5zzkglBNtSs.

By Joe Siegel

Shaun Whalen is now the new Seekonk Fire Chief. Whalen was appointed by the Select Board at their March 27 meeting.

Adam Dalessio, the department’s Administrative Captain, was appointed to serve as Deputy Chief. Dalessio has been with the department for the past 14 years.

Michael Small, the former Fire Chief in Falmouth, had been serving as Interim Chief for the past three months.

Small was appointed by the Seekonk Select Board last December after former Chief Sandra Lowery announced her retirement.

Seekonk’s TV9 Ongoing Controversy

By Joe Siegel Off the Air

A statement posted on the town website reads: “As of April 1st, Seekonk Cable Access, LLC (TV9), has suspended all programming on our local cable access channels, including public meetings such as the Board of Selectmen, Planning Board, and Zoning Board of Appeals. This decision was made by the Board of Directors of Seekonk Cable Access, LLC, without any discussion with the Board of Selectmen. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.”

“Unfortunately, Seekonk Cable Access Corporation, the non-profit organization that the Town of Seekonk has designated to provide you with Public Access Television, Educational Programming, and Governmental Programs, has been suspended until further notice,” stated the announcement on TV9’s Facebook page.

TV9 places the blame squarely on the Select Board, which “directed the Town Administrator to refrain from rendering payment for services from Xfinity/Comcast since August of last year.”

“Your Xfinity provider charges all subscribers a fee every month to provide Seekonk with local cable access, and the town of Seekonk has always allowed the payment check to be delivered directly to Seekonk Cable Access every quarter. They stopped that last summer, abusing a loophole in a state law that is in the process of being amended.”

Speaking on behalf of the Select Board last Wednesday, Town Administrator Shawn Cadime said “we are deeply troubled by the decisions made by the Seekonk Cable Access Board of Directors, particularly in light of the ongoing negotiations for a Cable Access Agreement between the Town and Seekonk Cable Access. These actions undermine the collaborative efforts we have been diligently working on.”

Shaun Whalen

The Reporter obtained a draft of the proposed agreement, which states: “Seekonk, its’ Select Board, or its Designee, may conduct an annual performance review of TV9 each year upon receipt of the annual report or audit.”

In addition, “TV9 shall allow Seekonk Selectmen, and/or their authorized designees or agents access to the books, records, accounts, and facilities of TV9 at such reasonable times and in such reasonable places as the same may require to ensure compliance with this Access Agreement.”

Cadime said the decision for TV9 to halt programming due to financial concerns was “misleading.”

“As of October 2023, Seekonk Cable Access, LLC possessed total liquid assets of $661,511.66, which are derived from Town funding,” Cadime noted. “To provide context, the Town receives approximately $60,000 per quarter or $240,000 per year from the five percent Gross Annual Revenue payment from Comcast. Seekonk Cable Access has nearly three years’ worth of funding reserves in total liquid assets to sustain its programming operations.”

“We really hope we can come to a solution soon,” the TV9 statement concluded. “The Board of Selectmen must negotiate in good faith, and we are willing to meet anytime to come to a reasonable solution. But until now, the great programming you have come to expect will be suspended until a settlement is agreed to.”

Cadime insists the operation of town government will not be impacted by the dispute.

“Despite recent challenges and disruptions, I want to assure our residents that all Town boards and committees will continue to meet,” Cadime added. “While televised meetings have been an essential means of public engagement, it’s important to note that the Open Meeting Law does not mandate public meetings to be televised. We are actively exploring alternative options to ensure continued public access to vital local meetings.”

Town Withheld Funds

In the last six months, the Town of Seekonk has withheld over $128,000 in funding designated for public access station TV9.

A check in the amount of $65,397.49 was sent by Comcast to the Board of Selectmen on November 2. Another check for $63,365.88 was dated February 7, 2024.

“TV9 had been working in its normal capacity since August 16th under the understanding that TV9 would, and in anticipation of, receiving the two checks held by the Town for that purpose,” said TV9 Board President Andrea Rosseter.

In an e-mail sent to the Reporter, Cadime explained town attorneys needed more time to review the proposed changes by TV9 for a new Access Agreement.

“Holding the meetings without final comments from Town Counsel would have rendered them unproductive. Our intent was to be respectful of everyone’s time and ensure productive discussions. Negotiations were ultimately canceled due to the actions taken by Seekonk Cable Access leading up to our April 8th negotiation session.”

TV9 Board member Doreen Taylor believes the Select Board lacks the adequate knowledge of the situation to make an informed decision.

“It would be interesting to know just how much the Selectmen have been informed of negotiations because TV9 has not been on an agenda since November 2023,” said Taylor. “Sullivan’s liaison reports to the board have yielded nothing because of his multiple absences in serving as the Board’s liaison to TV9.”

“Seekonk Cable Access has suspended programming from the PEG Channels,” Cadime noted. “The Town’s stance is that all funds allocated to Seekonk Cable Access, LLC are intended for the Town’s benefit. Seekonk Cable Access manages these funds on behalf of the Town. Therefore, any equipment or property acquired using Town funds rightfully belongs to the Town of Seekonk.”

“Since the inception on TV9 (SCA inc.) in 1985, and including the contract with the cable provider up to 2010, all documents have

stated that the facilities, equipment, and all holdings belong to TV9,” Rosseter said. “There has never been an agreement between the Town and TV9 revoking these rights of ownership, nor a reversion of assets.”

Cadime denied any intention of the Select Board to make TV9 a part of town government. “TV9 is a non-profit and non-governmental into a government body. If the question pertains to the Town’s potential management of our PEG channel internally, the answer is that it is an available option. The Selectmen have not finalized their decision on this matter.”

Sullivan Slams TV9 Board

Seekonk Select Board member Justin Sullivan criticized the Board of Directors of public access channel TV9 Wednesday. Sullivan said TV9’s recent decision to suspend broadcasting, as well as sending employees into town buildings to remove equipment was “as stunning as it was unnecessary.”

Ongoing negotiations between the Town and TV9 have broken down over the terms of a proposed Access Agreement. The latest meeting between Town Administrator Shawn Cadime, Sullivan, who serves as the Board’s liaison, and representatives of TV9 was abruptly cancelled.

“The appearance of TV9 Board’s impulsiveness is rivaled only by that of potential manipulation,” Sullivan continued. “The Town of Seekonk holds the cable licensing agreement with Comcast. Comcast pays (the town) five percent of revenues through your subscriber fees to be used for local television with PEG (public access, education, and government) limits. These funds received by Comcast are considered town revenue by the State and require appropriation through Town Meeting like all other budgets.”

Sullivan noted TV9’s financial records “showed in excess of $500,000 in cash and securities, (as well as) a rental property that they collect income from. Make no mistake, this all could’ve been avoided had TV9 acted more in good faith by refraining from their actions on April 1.”

“We are deeply troubled by the decisions made by the Seekonk Cable Access Board of Directors, particularly in light of the ongoing negotiations for a Cable Access Agreement between the Town and Seekonk Cable Access. These actions undermine the collaborative efforts we have been diligently working on.”

“As you are aware, the public access channels rightfully belong to the Town, and the funds received by Seekonk Cable Access, LLC originate from public funds provided by the Town of Seekonk. It is imperative that we uphold the principles of transparency and accountability in the management of these funds, ensuring they serve the best interests of our community.”

TV9’s website has been taken down, although the station’s Facebook page is still active. The April 10 Select Board meeting can be viewed on the Town's YouTube channel at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSTShF2b_ x0&t=6549s.

ChurCh News & eveNts

Seekonk Congregational Church In Person Sunday Services

Call

Irrevocable

Nominee

Real

Revocable Trusts

Testamentary Trusts

Inter

447 Taunton Avenue

Seekonk, MA 02771

T 508.336.8120

F 508.336.3350 navegalaw@aol.com

Serving the legal needs of the community since 1979

We hope you will join us each Sunday at Seekonk Congregational Church UCC at our weekly services with Communion in the Sanctuary at 600 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk, MA. All are welcome. Church school and licensed day care are available. Check us out, you will be happy you did. See our May service schedule below:

• May 5, 2024 2 services 9 & 10:30 AM

• May 12, 2024 2 services 9 & 10:30 AM

• May 19, 2024 1 Service 9:30 AM – Summer Schedule Begins – Pentecost – Wear Red

• May 26, 2024 1 Service 9:30 AM

We will continue to record our services and they are available the following day at Seekonk Congregational Church YouTube and on Cable 9 Seekonk at 9 AM each morning.

Be A Well Being Group

TUESDAY June 4, 2024 at 6 PM for 45 minutes & all are invited to attend

The purpose of the Be a Well Being group is to provide a supportive and non-judgmental forum for exploring stress management strategies. Meditation, prayer, gentle movement, and quiet all in the candlelit Sanctuary led by Sarah Stevenson. Youth News

• Youth Group - May 10, 6:30-8:30 PM 5th -8th grade Meet in Hall…Games & Snacks, Inside & Outside Contact Kristin Putney Director of Faith Formation at 774-991-1555 if interested

• Youth Group - May 31, 6:30-8:30 PM 5th -8th grade Meet in Hall…Games & Snacks, Inside & Outside Contact Kristin Putney Director of Faith Formation at 774-991-1555 if interested

• CAR WASH - YOUTH TRIP FUNDRAISER $8 On June 1 ~ June 8 ~ June 15 in Fall

River Ave parking lot, 9:00 AM to Noon

• Help support youth going to the Region Youth Event at Silver Lake Camp & Retreat Center July 28-31, 2024

• Vacation Bible School – August 5 – 9 2024 8:45 AM – 12:15 PM Preschool – 6th Grade Fee $25 This year’s theme is CAMP FIRELIGHT, there will be a pet station, moon bounce, fire pit & s’mores, nature, art, music & games

Sign up on line at: https://bit.ly/VBSSEEKONK2023 or call the office at 508-336-9355 All are welcome to attend OPEN MIC NIGHT

Music & Arts Committee presents OPEN MIC NIGHT in the hall Friday, June 7th ~6:30 to 9 PM

It’s time to share your talents, some singing, musical instruments, comedy, dance - all talent is needed. All ages are invited. Call the office 508-336-9355. We hope you will be part of the entertainment or come to listen and enjoy. A fun night for everyone.

Mission & Social Action News

Our Book Club will be reading “The General’s Son: Journey of an Israeli in Palestine” by Miko Peled and all are invited to attend Miko Peled’s father and grandfather were generals in the Israeli Army. Miko grew up and served in the Israeli army as well. This book will bring the reader up to date with the Middle East situation between the Palestinians and the Jews. His perspective as a Zionist and one-time Israeli soldier in Jerusalem, makes the argument that the only way to end this conflict is through partnership with the other side. He has become an activist in the promotion of world peace.

We will discuss the book on Thursday, May 23 at a member’s home at 6 pm. Please call the office and leave your name and number and someone will get back to you with the details. 508-336-9355

No matter who you are, or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome at Seekonk Congregational Church.

Rehoboth Congregational Church News

Worship With Us Every Sunday

The Rehoboth Congregational Church worships every Sunday at 10 AM. Join us for a wonderful blend of traditional worship with a modern twist. We sing, we laugh, and we enjoy the fellowship of one another’s company while strengthening our faith and serving others. If you are traveling or not quite ready for crowds, you can still worship with us! Our Sunday services are live streamed both on our website www.rehobothcongregational.org/worshiponline and on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/rehobothcongregational

Memorial Day Weekend Worship

Sunday, May 26TH | 10AM

Pond Street Ministerial Grounds

Join us outdoors Memorial Day Weekend! We will worship at the Pond Street Ministerial Grounds. There is a small parking lot but most parking will be available on the street. There will be no one at the church on this date.

Annual Yard Sale

Sunday, July 20TH | 10AM | At the Church

Join us for our annual huge yard sale! The sale begins at 10AM but donations can be dropped off beginning at 6AM. Please Note: No donations will be accepted ahead of time.

Rehoboth Baptist Church Missions Conference

Rehoboth Baptist Church will host the men from Teen Challenge Brockton on Saturday, May 3rd at 5:30 PM for a potluck supper, singing and testimonies. On Sunday, May 4th at 9 AM, Danny Croce will inform us about his ministry as chaplain with New Hope Correctional Ministry at the Plymouth County Correctional Facility.

The church meets regularly on Sundays at 10:30 AM and 6 PM and on Wednesdays for prayer at 7 PM and you are welcome.

Rehoboth Baptist Church is located on Route 118, two miles south of the Route 44 intersection. Visit our website for current information about our services or to contact the pastor or an elder. www.RehobothBaptistChurch.org.

First Christian Congregational Church News

Strictly Sentimental Swing Band Concert

The First Christian Congregational Church, UCC located at 1113 GAR Highway, Swansea, MA will be hosting the Strictly Sentimental Swing Band on Monday, May 6, 2024 at 7:00 pm in our beautiful sanctuary. The Concert will feature an assortment of favorite Big Band Songs. Please plan to join with us. No fee, donations only.

May Breakfast

The First Christian Congregational Church, UCC located at 1113 GAR Highway, Swansea, MA will be hosting our Annual May Breakfast on Saturday, May 11, from 8 – 11 am. This will be a sit down breakfast buffet featuring scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, home fries, pancakes, muffins, juice, coffee & tea. The cost for the breakfast is $12 for adults, $6 for children 6 – 10, and children 5 and under eat free! All are invited to come and enjoy the food, fellowship and fun!!

Community Covenant Church News

Are you looking for help and hope? Every week at Community Covenant Church, located at 615 Tremont St. Rehoboth, MA. we strive to bring that to everyone who walks through our door through the good news of the gospel of Jesus. Through relevant preaching and modern worship that engages all ages from birth to empty nesters. For more information on our programs and current sermon series, check out www.communitycovenant.church. We hope to see you in person or online this Sunday at 10 am.

Newman Congregational Church, UCC Announces Community Yard Sale

Saturday, June 8th 9 am – 2 pm

Sellers wanted! Tables are limited!

$25 donation for the rental of an 8’ table & 2 chairs, proceeds from your table is 100% yours!

This is an indoor venue, no rain date is needed.

The event will be well publicized, in a high-traffic area!

Sellers: Set up after 7:30 am, and you are responsible for the removal of your unsold items. There is a donation collection box in the Newman parking lot if you have any remaining clothing or linens you’d like to discard.

Newman Congregational Church, United Church of Christ is located at 100 Newman Avenue, Rumford, RI 02916. For more information or to reserve a table, contact the Church Office at 401434-4742 X10.

Newman UCC is an Open and Affirming congregation of the United Church of Christ and extends this invitation to one and all, living out the example of Jesus’ extravagant welcome.

REHOBOTH BAPTIST CHURCH

132 Moulton Street (Route 118)

Rehoboth, MA 02769

SUNDAY SERVICES:

Sunday School 9:00 am The Lord’s Service 10:30am Sunday Evening Service 6:00pm

Wednesday Night: Prayer & Bible Study 7:00pm

Rehoboth Baptist Church is located on Route 118, two miles south of the Route 44 intersection. Visit our website for current information about our services or to contact the pastor or an elder.

www.RehobothBaptistChurch.org

Events & Activities

Anawan Fire Association New England Clam Boil

Friday May 10, 2024 7:00 PM

Seekonk Rod & Gun Club-61 Reed Street, Rehoboth, MA

Tickets - $35.00 Each - Prizes Will Be Raffled Tickets Only – No Walk-Ins; For Tickets Call (508) 226-2914 or E-Mail DCAREYRFD@gmail.com

South Coast Community Chorale invites you to their 2024 Spring concert, “Memories Through Music & Photos”

Saturday, May 18th, 7:30pm

The South Coast Community Chorale (SCCC) is excited to present their 2024 Spring concerts. The concerts will take place on Saturday, May 18th, 7:30pm at St. Thomas More Church, 386 Luther Ave, Somerset, MA and Sunday, May 19th, 3:00pm at First Baptist Church of Fall River, 228 North Main Street, Fall River, MA.

Tickets are $18 in advance and $20 at the door (Prices for students and seniors are $3 off either price). Veterans will be able to attend for free. Visit their website at www.sccchorale.com for more information and to purchase tickets online through Eventbrite®. Check out SCCC on Facebook and Twitter too!

Karen Adams Named Honorary Chair of Rotary and Lions Club Annual Charity Classic Golf Tournament 2024

Karen Adams

East Providence, R.I./Seekonk, Mass. (April 2, 2024): Longtime WPRI TV-12 News Anchor Karen Adams has been named honorary chair of the 32nd Annual Charity Golf Tournament for the East Providence/Seekonk Rotary Club and Seekonk Lions Club Charitable Trust. The event will be held on May 20, 2024 at Ledgemont Country Club located at 131 Brown Avenue in Seekonk.

“I am honored to be asked to serve as the honorary chair of this tournament that raises so many funds for charitable causes throughout East Providence and Seekonk,” states Adams. “As a long-time participant in the sport myself, I encourage golfers to play in this tournament. It’s a great way to enjoy a day of golf while helping to support many worthwhile initiatives and the selfless work of Rotary and Lions Clubs members who do so much for their communities.”

Karen Adams anchored for WPRI from 1989 until her retirement in 2010. She was inducted to the Rhode Island Radio and TV Hall of Fame in 2012. During her broadcasting years, she won many awards including an Emmy and numerous awards from the Associated Press. She was also inducted into the Silver Circle of the National Television Arts and Sciences in recognition of her 25 years in the broadcast industry.

“Karen’s commitment to charity and community service is extensive as are her lifetime achievement honors,” states East Providence/Seekonk Rotary Club President Valerie Perry. “Golf is also a passion of hers so we think having her as our Honorary Chair is a great match between this Rhode Island broadcasting legend and our Rotary and Lions Clubs.”

“We also want everyone to know that Karen is traveling and won’t be able to physically be at our tournament, so she has graciously agreed to provide a special video message to our participants that we’ll email to everyone who is registered as well as to our sponsors,” added Seekonk Lions Club President Lenny Silva.

Presenting Host of the Rotary and Lions Club Charity Golf Tournament is First Auto Group; Hole-in-One Sponsors are D.F. Pray and Kavanagh’s Bakery Products; Double Eagle Sponsors are Patriot Subaru in North Attleboro, Edward Jones and Micheletti’s Family Restaurant of Seekonk; Eagle Sponsors are Brown Medicine, BayCoast Bank, Carol & Allan Gilmore, Atlantic Paper & Supply,

and Herb Chambers Honda of Seekonk; Contributing Sponsors are Signs & Sites, Cross Insurance, Minuteman Press of Seekonk, and Chris Gasbarro’s Fine Wine & Spirits.

For additional sponsorship opportunities, tee sign sponsorship, golf participant registration, and tournament details, visit epseekonkrotary.org.

Arts in the Village Concert Series

Thank you to all our patrons for a successful 21st season! Here is the 22nd Season Preview for 2024–2025

• October 6 Providence Mandolin Orchestra

• November 10 Ko-Eun Yi, pianist

• February 23 Champlain Trio, violin, cello, piano

• March 23 Sheffield Chamber Players, string quartet

• April 27 Bay Winds Quintet

Please note. The day and time of the concerts have been changed. All concerts: Sundays at 2:30 pm

Goff Memorial Hall, 124 Bay State Rd, Rehoboth, MA 02769 508-431-6879 • www.rehobothantiquarian.org/arts-in-the-village

New England Clam Boil

Saturday June 22, 2024 7:00 PM

Sponsored By Eastern Star Lodge A.F. & A.M. Seekonk Rod & Gun Club 61 Reed Street, Rehoboth, MA

Tickets - $35.00 Each Prizes Will Be Raffeled

Advanced Tickets Only – No Walk-Ins For Tickets Call (508) 226-2914 or Log In to Esl1924.Org/Clamboil

Dighton-Rehoboth Class of ‘74

50th Class Reunion

We are currently planning our 50th class reunion!!! (Can you believe it??) Looking for all classmates!!

Please join our FaceBook Page for up-to-date information D-R Class of 74 50th Reunion Page Not on FaceBook? Please email us: Sue Munroe Darling: suzdarling777@yahoo.com

Elwell Perry: Elwellperry@yahoo.com Russ Perrin: Rustyp74@icloud.com

Visit Local Farms

Excitement is building with only one month remaining until the highly anticipated Sheep & Wool Festival comes to Coggeshall Farm on May 18th. As a highlight of the spring season, artisans, crafters, and creatives are invited to mark their calendars and prepare for a day filled with fiber, fun, and fluffy friends.

From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the festival promises to bring artistry and inspiration to all attendees, with demonstrations and workshops providing opportunities for hands-on engagement and learning. From sheep shearing and wool washing to dyeing and spinning yarn, experts will share their skills and passion for fiber arts. For the first time this year, the festival will feature a vibrant display of artwork, crafts, and other hand-made items showcasing the talent of local artists and makers.

“This year’s festival promises to be a spectacular event,” said Shelli Costa, Executive Director of Coggeshall Farm Museum. “Boasting an exciting array of activities and an extensive list of top-notch talent, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a fan of fiber art or simply seeking a day of outdoor exploration in the presence of some special animals, we hope you’ll join us at the Sheep & Wool Festival next month.”

In addition to fiber-related activities, attendees can look forward to an eclectic selection of artisanal goods for purchase, including alpaca fiber, natural dye house products, handmade soaps, and crafts from a growing list of local vendors. The event will also feature live music by Atwater-Donnelly and Lewis Pacheco and food from The Cluck Truck and Newport Creamery.

Registration is required. Admission for non-members is $12 for adults and $5 for youth (children aged 3 and under are free). For more information about how to purchase tickets, become a sponsor, or enter into the showcase, please visit https://coggeshallfarm. org/event/sheep-and-wool-festival/. The festival will take place rain or shine.

This year’s Sheep & Wool Festival is made possible thanks to the generous support of our sponsors: Bristol Marine, BayCoast Bank, Sunshine Fuels & Energy Services, and The Coffee Depot. About Coggeshall Farm: Set on 48 acres of coastal farmland in Bristol, Rhode Island, Coggeshall Farm recreates the daily experience of tenant farmers on a salt marsh farm in the late 18th century. With a new, innovative partnership with Old Sturbridge Village, Coggeshall will expand and enhance the visitor experience through live interpretation, enriching events and educational programming, historic structures, heirloom plants and gardens, and heritage-breed animals.

DAOLKCURELAST

People In The News

Your Heart

LaCave Suzanne Celebrates 50 Years in Business

Celebrating 50 years in business is a testament to the enduring values of love, support, dedication, loyalty, hard work, and teamwork. These are the pillars upon which our journey has been built, turning dreams into reality. I’m immensely proud of the incredible loyalty and dedication shown by my team, some of whom have been with me for up to 41 years.

It all began at 23 years old, pregnant with my son, when we opened LaCave Suzanne on Mary Street in Attleboro. From there, our success blossomed, leading us to open LaCave Two, LaCave Three, and beyond, spreading our wings to various locations. Despite facing personal challenges, like the passing of my father, my determination never wavered.

Moving to Florida and entrusting the management of our salon to Kim K was a leap of faith, but her unwavering dedication surpassed all expectations. The surprise visit from all 12 of my hairdressers to celebrate our milestone in Florida was an unforgettable moment, a testament to the bonds we’ve forged over the years.

I’m deeply grateful to our clients who have supported us on this remarkable journey. Here’s to 50 years of memories, milestones, and endless gratitude.

Warm regards, Sue Lamarre

University News

Kelsey Gendreau Inducted into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi

Baton Rouge, LA -- Kelsey Gendreau of Seekonk, Massachusetts, was recently initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society. Gendreau was initiated at Framingham State University.

Seekonk Resident Graduates from Northeastern University

Catherine J. Testa of Seekonk, Massachusetts graduated Summa Cum Laude from Northeastern University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Sciences and Business.

While attending Northeastern, Catherine worked as an intern for the Town of Seekonk; additionally, she received the Sigma Epsilon Rho Honor Scholarship and maintained highest honors each semester.

Sue and George Lamarre celebrating with their staff in Florida

Following commencement, Catherine plans to attend graduate school at Northeastern to earn her Master’s Degree in Organizational Leadership.

Local Residents Named to Simmons University Dean’s List

The following local residents were named to the 2023 fall semester dean’s list at Simmons University in Boston.

Hafsa Muqudas, Emily Rieben, Sophia Wilcox

Greenlock’s Director and Co-Founder Edith Wislocki

Publishes Her Memoir

Special Announcement from Greenlock’s Director and CoFounder Edith Wislocki, of her recently published memoir. Edith has been a Rehoboth resident since 1978, and in 1989 she and her neighbor, Shelia Greenbaum, started Greenlock Therapeutic Riding Center. Edith has now published a memoir chronicling this event and its relationship to the people and the town she loves.

This book is a memoir about a woman who loved to work but was unhappy with her work life. When she was forty-five in 1989 she up and changed everything to spend the rest of her life doing what she wanted to do - being outside with dogs and horses while pursuing a meaningful and rewarding career.

She and a neighborhood friend joined together and created a nonprofit: Greenlock Therapeutic Riding Center, Inc. in Rehoboth, MA. This book takes a look at all the improbable stories that took place behind the scenes of this remarkable organization. It is a funny, whimsical, poignant and informative read involving horses, dogs, and other animals as they relate to quirky kids with odd abilities and disabilities.

This is her first and only book which she wrote at the age of seventy-seven. She wrote the entire book on her Iphone while sitting outside at her farm where she, her golden retrievers, and Greenlock reside.

Greenlock is situated on twenty-six acres of fields and woodlands in rural Rehoboth, MA. The facility is comprised of an indoor arena, an outdoor ring, and a small network of forested riding trails. Greenlock’s carefully-selected therapy horses are stabled on site. Greenlock is a Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH) International Premier Accredited Center, servicing as many as 150 clients each week.

For details on her book and info on purchasing your own copy, click on this link at amazon.com: https://a.co/d/bRHQ8Sj

Edith Wislocki’s book cover

Club News & ANNOUNCEMENTS

Events at the Seekonk American Legion Post 311

Meat Raffles Continue

Meat Raffles continue each Saturday through May 18th. The raffles take place each Saturday at 2 pm. There are 3 tables of steaks, chicken, seafood, TV and other prizes. 50/50 raffle. Kitchen opens at 1 pm.

After Memorial Day Parade

Free Hot Dogs and Hamburgers at the Legion after the Memorial Day Parade on Saturday 5/25 from noon – 2 pm.

Drive By Poppy Distribution

The red paper Poppy is the official memorial flower of the American Legion. The Auxiliary distributes Poppies so people can remember the sacrifice of our Military. Money received from distributing the Poppy can only be used for Veteran Rehabilitation. Poppies will be available in front of the Post between 9 am and noon, the exact dates TBD. All donations are appreciated.

Yard Sale – June 1st

We will be having a Yard Sale behind the Legion Post on Saturday, 6/1 with a rain date of 6/2. Please stop by and browse.

Music at the American Legion

Friday Night Bands – starts at 8 pm

5/10 – After Dark Duo • 5/17 – 3 Sum Band • 5/24 – Rock A Blues Hall Rental

• 200 person capacity. Contact Bob Reed for information at 508336-9822, 351 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA 02771

TABELEY’S ROOFING

Seekonk Knights of Columbus Annual Charity Yard Sale

The Seekonk Knights of Columbus will host their Annual Charity Yard Sale on Saturday, June 1, 2024 from 8 am to 12 pm, Knights of Columbus Hall, 532 Arcade Ave., Seekonk, MA 02771. We will have 30 local sellers present. So, whatever you’re looking for should be there.

Free parking. Free admission and a 50/50 raffle to try your luck. There are a few lots still available. 508.336.7952.

Visit our Facebook page for more details. Rain date: June 2, 2024

The Seekonk Lions Twelfth Annual Doug Allan Memorial Fishing Tournament

The Seekonk Lions Twelfth Annual Doug Allan Memorial Fishing Tournament on Patriots Day 2024 proved once again to be the best fishing derby in town. A good turnout of over 60 kids and parents battling it out for the top prize at the prestigious American Legion Post 311 awards banquet.

There were not as many bites as the last year, which made it a tough competition. Best catch this year was by Brooke Laliberte pulling in a 14 ¼” rainbow trout. Close runner-ups were Devin Le, Sage Nicolson and Luke Peltz respectively checking in 12” to 14” beauties. Natalie Horton caught the only catfish of the day. Sage and Devin caught three trout each!

With over $1500 in gifts and donations, the Doug Allan Memorial Fishing derby makes this the place to be on Patriots Day. Thank you Chick-Fil-A, Grist Mill Tavern , American Legion Post 311, Seekonk Grand Prix , United Skates of America, Jersey Mike’s, Bass Pro Shop, Master Homemade Donuts, East Providence Lanes, Fam Lee Grill, Lucky Bait Shop, Marti’s Cupcakes and More, Cuzins Pizza, The Nerdy Baker, Mediterranean Grill, Showcase Cinemas, Wild Birds Unlimited, Jersey Mike’s.

We will be back next year to keep this annual tradition moving along. For pictures go to Seekonk Lions Club | Seekonk MA | Facebook . The derby chairs want to thank all the volunteers and friends that make this a memorable yearly event for the youth in our area. Enjoy your future fishing escapades and we will see you next year!

Excited to have caught a catfish!

Stories of Attleboro Soldiers in The American Revolution

This is the second in a series of stories about local soldiers that served in the American Revolution. As we prepare to celebrate the 250th Anniversary of our independence it seems a good time to share the stories of some of these patriots.

A Rehoboth commander Colonel Timothy Walker was in charge of over 500 troops at the siege of Boston. From April to July 1775, they were the 3rd Provincial Regiment. From July to January 1776, they were the 22nd Regiment of the United Colonies. These soldiers were from many local towns.

This story is about several Attleboro soldiers. The Army at Boston was reorganized in January 1777, the 22nd Regiment was disbanded, and some of the soldiers joined different units. The 13th and 16th Continental Regiments, the 3rd Bristol County Regiment under Colonel Thomas Carpenter and the 4th Bristol County regiment under Colonel John Daggett were some of the active regiments.

Attleboro was required to make and deliver to Cambridge 88 Bounty Coats. During the siege there were at least 88 Attleboro soldiers on duty. The history of the Massachusetts Bounty coat was published in the April issue of the Rehoboth Reporter.

Soldiers Stories

Daniel Read was born in Attleboro on November 16, 1757. He was one of the 12 children of Captain Daniel Read and his wife Mary White Read. His father was an officer in the 4th Bristol County Regiment. Daniel decided to fight for our freedom. He enlisted in Colonel Timothy Walker’s 3rd Bristol County Regiment. Daniel’s contribution to the war was different from an average soldier’s. His weapon was a drum. He was a gifted musician and a very important part of the Army. In today’s Army he would be a “communication specialist.” . Drummers knew over 200 commands to beat on their drums. An officer would give the orders to the drummer of fifer, and he would relay them to the soldiers with the drumbeats. This form had been used to communicate in the Army for hundreds of years. The drum could be heard at a great distance. He was also an accomplished fifer. He was a valuable member of the Army as he was able to share officers’ commands over a great distance. Later in the war he became a Drum Major for Colonel Graton Regiment of about 1,000 soldiers.

After the war he moved to New Haven Connecticut. Here he started a successful manufacturing business making combs. He continued his interest in music. He married Jerusha Sherman in 1785 and they had 4 children.

In 1791 he wrote and published the American Singing Book and in 1793 the Columbia Harmony. Songs like Windham, Greenwich, Sherburne were hymns in his Litchfield Collection. Some of these songs are still used in churches today. He is listed in the Appleton’s Cyclopedia of American Biographies, He became a leading citizen of New Haven,

This son of Attleboro served as an American Patriots and became a famous composer.

Hezekiah Peck was born in 1755 in a house that still stands in Attleboro. He was the son of Hezekiah and Mary Skinner Peck who had 4 children. He enlisted in the American Army at the age of 20 on May 1,1775. He joined Captain Caleb Richardson’s Company of Colonel Timothy Walkers Regiment. He served with this unit for 8 months. During this period of time towns were required to supply their soldiers with “Bounty Coats”. He received his on November 20, 1775. In 1776 he marched with the Army to the Battle of Long Island. He returned home after the terrible defeat of American troops. In 1777 he was with Massachusetts troops fighting in Rhode Island. In March of 1779 he was in Colonel Hathaway’s Regiment serving as a Sargent.

In November of 1779 he married Hephzibah Dyer of Rehoboth.

They had two children. After the war he moved to Newport New Hampshire with several local families. The house where he was born in Attleboro stayed in the Peck family until 1900. It was moved 2 times. It is now the headquarters of the Daughters of the American Revolution on the corner of Elizabeth and Main St. Such a fitting tribute to the people who lived in this wonderful old home. The DAR continues to spread the message of those who faithfully served this country from Attleboro and local towns. .

If this old house could talk what stories it could tell us!

Comfort Capron was born on March 18, 1743. Son of Jonathan and Rebecca Morse Capron. His family had lived in the area since 1680. In 1901 members of his family donated 27 acres of land to the town. It is now Capron Park.

In March of 1765 he married Martha Medcalf. They had three children Labab, Polly and Orie

He had served in the Army from June to December of 1761. This may be where he received some medical training.

On May 3,1775 he enlisted in Colonel Timothy Walker’s Regiment. Comfort’s services were of great need in the Army because he had medical training. He joined the Army as a Surgeon’s Mate. He assisted in all types of medical treatments. By January 1778 he was listed as a Surgeon in Colonel John Daggett’s Regiment. He was a Doctors Mate in Colonel Abiel Mitchell’s 3 Bristol County Regiment from July to October 1780.

After the war he moved to Hartford Township, Pennsylvania. He is noted to be a doctor.

He died at the age of 56. He was a well-respected member of this community.

If anyone has a story or an ancestor who served in Colonel Timothy Walkers Regiment, we would love to hear the story.

These stories tell of soldiers who served in the 22nd Regiment under Colonel Timothy Walker.

The Rehoboth Minutemen are a reenactors unit that portray the times and lives of members of the 22nd Regiment. After January of 1777 this unit portrays the 13th Continental Regiment.

There are many other soldiers’ stories just waiting to be told. In July we will tell the stories of Dighton soldiers that were members of the 22nd Regiment

For more information about our unit visit our website or Facebook page, www.13thcontinentalregiment.org or call Cathy Potter

508 252 3682

News from the Rehoboth Lions

Important news - unfortunately, we had to make the difficult decision to cancel this year’s Citizen’s Recognition Night. Any nominations sent in will be included in next year’s event.

***The Rehoboth Lions will be holding a food drive to benefit the Rehoboth Food Pantry on May 4th. We have 4 convenient drop off spots (thank you!!) in town to drop off your non perishable items that will aid in helping stock the Pantry shelves: North Station, South Station, Transfer Station, and Rehoboth Vision Care.

Hours are from 10AM - 1PM. We hope to have a great turnout as the Pantry is always grateful in helping with providing food for our neighbors that may be experiencing food insecurity.

**There are two clam boils left for the season.....the first Wednesday of May and June. We typically sell out fast, so make sure you reach out to a fellow Lion (or visit the website) if you are interested in enjoying a great night!

**The 52nd Annual Chet Munroe Lions Chicken Barbeque will be held on June 2nd. Tickets are $20 and include: 1/2 Chicken, Cole Slaw, Potato Salad, Cranberry Sauce, Roll, and Dessert. Pick up time is 11:30 - 1:00 at the American Legion. See any Lion for tickets or more information.

We are so looking forward to seeing you at our upcoming events! Stay tuned and visit the rehobothlions.org website!

We can never thank the Reporter Team enough for their generous support of the Lions! We are very appreciative!!!!

To our Rehoboth residents, businesses, and neighbors - As always, thank you for your support.

Yours in Lionism, Scott Lacourse

Hornbine School Open for the 2024 Season

Our First Open House Will Be On Sunday, June 9th from 2-4 PM. We will be open to the public every 2nd and 4th Sunday from 2 – 4 pm during June, July, August, and September. Plan to visit us and enjoy our new displays.

The school was cleaned in April to get ready for this season’s events which include 17 classes visiting this spring from the towns of Dighton, Seekonk Swansea, and Somerset. By the time you read this we will have had a successful Children’s Doll Tea on May 5th. We will have a table set up with Hornbine School related materials and children’s activities at the Carpenter Museum’s Strawberry Festival on Sunday, June 2nd from 1-5 pm. Other activities we are planning are setting up a table with children’s activities at the “Town Townline” at Redway Plain in September. We are also thinking about having a “Senior Day” where we plan to invite all seniors to visit the school.

Look for us on Facebook at “Hornbine School Museum”. You can get in touch with us by calling Dawn at 508-728-4867.

The Hornbine School Museum is located on Hornbine Road in Rehoboth.

American Legion Post 302 Public Events

• Try our Fish & Chips or Sea Scallops – every Thursdays 4:00 till 7:00 P.M. & Fridays 4:00 – 8 PM.Take Outs are welcome – call in your order in early for pickup at 508-252-9079

• Sign up for our Monday-Tuesday & Wednesday Night Dart Leagues

• MASS LOTTERY – PLAY “KENO”, “MEGAMILLION”, “POWERBALL”

• If you’re interested in playing in a Card League of Hi-Lo Jacks. Monday Nights from September through November & April – June or Wednesday nights September – December and start up again in January – April. All games start at 7:00 PM @ $7.00 per game. The Cribbage League plays on Monday Nights January – March and then on Wednesday Nights from May – August – all games start at 7:00 PM. e-mail speedyjake@aol.com or call #508-252-9079

Upcoming Events

• May 10th, 2024 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – Live Music performed by Notorious Jones Entertainment with Classic Rock Music – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www. facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063368911454

• May 11th, 2024 - Saturday - 7:00-10:00 P.M., On3 Entertainment, Classic Rock – No Cover Charge! – Bar Food – Kitchens open – Fish & Chips - Check with the bar for the Specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, Dancing so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! https://www.facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/

• May 12th,2024 – Sunday -7:30 -10:30 A.M. American Legion & Anawan Lions Monthly Breakfast, Second Sunday of every month $12.00 donation - All you can Eat! https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/

• May 17th, 2024 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – Rock-A-Blues Band with Classic Rock Music – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! https://www.rockablues.com

• May 18th, 2023 – Saturday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – Live Music with The 3Sum Band - Classic Rock, Pop, Blues, Country, Motown and more – No Cover Charge! – Bar Food – Kitchens open – Fish & Chips - Check with the bar for the Specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, Dancing so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! https://www.facebook.com/groups/636053727522063/?ref=share

• May 24tu, 2024 - Friday - 7:00-10:00 P.M., Greg Hodde’s Blue Reign, Classic Rock – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart https:// open.spotify.com/artist/57RIFB8RMODxF0PXg6vVjT?si=%20 HGPY_GMWTAioT8epLo0GWg&nd=1

• March 25th, 2024 – Saturday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – BOMBSHELL BETTY PRODUCTIONS with Live Vocal Music – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Dancing & having a GREAT TIMEhttps://www.bombshellbettyproductions.com/

• May 31st, 2024 – Friday - 6:00-8:00 P.M., Sons of the American Legion’s Monthly Meat Raffle followed by Karaoke - 8:00-11:00 P.M. – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Singing, Dancing & having a GREAT TIME! https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/

• May 31st, 2024 – Friday - 8:00-11:00 P.M. + – Live Karaoke performed by our own Karaoke Entertainment, Come on in and sing a song or two – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME! https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/

• June 1st 2024 – Saturday – 6:30 -10-pm, Little Miss and the Boom Band - Modern Music – Vintage Style Acoustic –– Drinks – Entertainment, Dancing so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! https:// www.facebook.com/LittleMissAndTheBoomBand

REHOBOTH RAMBLINGS: Birds and Trees, Flowers and Bees

by Leslie Patterson

Early to mid-Spring is such a beautiful and enjoyable time of year. The daffodils and flowering trees were even more beautiful this year, I thought, perhaps distracting us from the reappearance of the dreaded invasive plants. Here’s one suggestion for getting rid of these bullies of the plant world: “If you can’t beat them, eat them” advised a headline in the Boston Globe on April 16 and adding “Why foraging plants is good for you and the planet.”

The article described how to identify and cook two invasive species, garlic mustard and Japanese knotweed. My fantasy is to get in the time machine and stop people in the 1800’s from importing knotweed, and all those other nuisance plants originally from Asia, to use as ornamental borders. Knotweed can grow up to 8 inches a day in the spring, as anyone who walks by a patch of it daily can testify, and is strong enough to poke through concrete.

There are a couple of problems with this foraging suggestion. First, the stuff is indestructible, the Godzilla of the plant world. It will probably survive Armageddon, along with cockroaches. The more you cut knotweed the more it grows back, and secondly, its location along roadsides means that even if it hasn’t been sprayed with chemicals, it is growing in the midst of car exhaust and dog pee. (Ditto the wild blackberries that grow along the road.)

So no, I’ll pass on this cooking suggestion. Plus, knotweed grows so profusely how much would people have to eat to make a difference? I have heard bee-keepers say that honey from bees that like knotweed flowers is very tasty, so I’ll give them that. If you don’t want to eat this plant, the Globe article also offers a recipe from someone in Rockport on how to make gin from knotweed. If as they say, knotweed stalks taste like rhubarb, many people already grow rhubarb and there’s lots of it available at farm stands. You know what you’re getting. Any kind of foraging makes me nervous. Not everything you find in nature is benevolent. The Globe goes on to sensibly recommend that anyone foraging should find a reliable plant identification guide, such as those from The Trustees of Reservations or the Audubon Society or the New England Wildflower Society at Garden in the Woods in Framingham. One wild plant I’m good at identifying is poison ivy, but I hope no one would ever eat that!

This past month brought us a solar eclipse, a minor earthquake, and on one afternoon an almost perfect double rainbow after a spring shower. With the eclipse, I was surprised just how much sunlight there was around here, even when only a small sliver of the sun was exposed. It really made you realize just how powerful the sun is, if an eerie but clear light remained even when the sun was mostly blocked. This light was different from twilight or a cloudy day. The Earth would be a very different place if the light from our sun was always that weak. So though seeing a total eclipse would have been nice, and I’m glad everyone had such a good time with it, even a partial eclipse was worth seeing. (Thanks to the Blanding Library for the eclipse glasses!)

We continue to act as turtle crossing guards this spring, when we see them trying to cross the road on the way to the pond, where the water level remains high. We’ve found a couple of tiny turtles that surely wouldn’t survive long trying to cross a road, so it’s nice to feel helpful.

Moving further afield, the ospreys are back along the East Bay shore of Narragansett Bay. A good place to see them is while on the trail at the Audubon Center in Bristol. This trail and boardwalk also connect with the East Bay bike path. The osprey nest nearest the water is huge! The birds must have been doing some serious remodeling. The nest closer to the bike path is smaller but easier to observe. We saw two ospreys flying in circles high above, perhaps in a courtship ritual. Once the chicks hatch later this spring, you’ll hear them even if you can’t quite see them way up there in the nest. Back home, right outside the door, the hummingbird feeder will be waiting for our smallest avian summer residents. Welcome back birds, big and small!

Kindness Rocks Garden at Seekonk Library Set to Bloom

As the world looks for ways to connect and uplift each other, the return of the Kindness Rocks Garden at Seekonk Library supports that effort with a space for connection, inspiration and kindness within the community. After a winter hiatus, the garden is set to start ‘blooming’ again in May and the community is encouraged to contribute painted rocks to the on-going project.

Started in 2017, the Kindness Rocks Garden at Seekonk Library is a place where painted rocks are adorned with messages of kindness, hope, and inspiration. From simple affirmations to intricate designs, each rock carries a unique message aimed at spreading joy and lifting spirits.

To sustain the space and keep the garden alive, a continuous supply of painted rocks is needed from spring through fall. Starting May 1, individuals are encouraged to contribute to the project by dropping off painted rocks in the garden which is located near the entrance of Seekonk Library.

Join in this community effort and help create an inspirational space for the community to enjoy and to watch kindness bloom!

Gardening Among Hungry Mammals

Wednesday, May 8 at 7 PM

Join program partner Grow Native Massachusetts for the virtual program Gardening Among Hungry Mammals on Wednesday, May 8 at 7 PM to find out how we can call a truce between our garden-

ing needs and so-called “garden pests.” By understanding plant resistance and tolerance strategies as well as animal behaviors and natural histories, we can create resilient gardens that will support a diversity of vertebrate and invertebrate life in our home habitats. Author Nancy Lawson will lead you to discover how a combination of strategies—including mixtures of preferred and unpalatable species, strategic plantings along well-used pathways, and gentle exclusion techniques—can help you trade resistance for peaceful coexistence. Grow Native Massachusetts presents this program as part of the Evenings with Experts free public series. This program will be held in Zoom; register in the online Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl. org/events to receive the login information to attend.

For more information or assistance, email library@seekonkpl. org, or call Adult Services at 508-336-8230 x56130.

Sew and Glow: Soft Circuit Workshop

Tuesday, May 21 at 6:00 PM

Join us at Seekonk Library for an introduction to the world of wearable electronics! Learn how to sew a basic electric circuit into colorful felt using a LilyPad LED and conductive thread, then attach a pin or clip to create a hand-made brooch. Choose from a variety of colors and patterns, then embellish your design with the craft supplies provided. No sewing or circuitry experience is necessary.

This program is free and open to the public; for planning and to be notified of program updates please register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events.

For more information, call Adult Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email library@seekonkpl.org.

Free Technology Class: Getting Started with Windows Laptops and Chromebooks

Tuesday, May 21 at 2 PM

Do you want to get more out of your smartphone or tablet? Bring them to our monthly Library Tech Class. In each session we will provide an introduction to the most useful tools available to use on your mobile device or help getting started. Join us this month for Library Tech Class: Getting Started with Windows Laptops and Chromebooks on Tuesday, May 21 from 2-3:30 PM in the library’s Large Meeting Room.

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Do you feel like you can barely turn on your Windows laptop or Chromebook and are afraid to really use it? Join Librarian Michelle Gario in this 90 minute session to review the basic information to get started that should have been in a manual! This program is for Apple iPhone and iPads ONLY. You must bring your own device; make sure the device is fully charged. Space is limited; registration is required. Register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl. org/events.

For more information or for help with registration, call Adult Services at 508-336-8230 x56130 or email library@seekonkpl.org.

Free Decoupage Creative Workshop

Thursday, May 23 at 5:30 PM

Come to the program Scrappy Decoupage at Seekonk Library on Thursday, May 23 at 5:30 PM to learn how to customize basic containers and more using paper, fabric, and other materials. Presenter Leslie Guglielmo will provide recycled tea tins, materials, and inspiration for you to practice transforming the unremarkable into decorative and useful accessories with decoupage. Class size is limited; registration is required. Register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events. This program is sponsored through a grant from the Seekonk Cultural Council, a local agency that is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council.

Nonfiction Book Club: The Address Book by Deirdre Marks

Tuesday, May 28th at 6:00 PM

Join us for a lively discussion of The Address Book: What Street Addresses Reveal About Identity, Race, Wealth, and Power by Deirdre Marks on Tuesday, May 28th at 6:00 PM at Seekonk Public Library. The title is available digitally as an ebook through Libby, or you may place a hold and pick up a print copy at the library. New members are always welcome!

“An exuberant work of popular history: the story of how streets got their names and houses their numbers, and why something as seemingly mundane as an address can save lives or enforce power. When most people think about street addresses, if they think of them at all, it is in their capacity to ensure that the postman can deliver mail or a traveler won’t get lost. But street addresses were not invented to help you find your way; they were created to find you. Addresses arose out of a grand Enlightenment project to name and number the streets, but they are also a way for people to be identified and tracked by those in power. As Deirdre Mask explains, the practice of numbering houses was popularized in eighteenth-century Vienna by Maria Theresa, leader of the Haps-

REALISTIC PAINTING

burg Empire, to tax her subjects and draft them into her military. In many parts of the world, your address can reveal your race and class, causing them to be a shorthand for snobbery or discrimination. In this wide-ranging and remarkable book, Mask looks at the fate of streets named after Martin Luther King, Jr., the wayfinding means of ancient Romans, how Nazis haunt the streets of modern Germany, and why numbered streets dominate in America but not in Europe. The flipside of having an address is not having one, and we see what that means for millions of people today, including those who live in the slums of Kolkata, on the streets of London, or in post-earthquake Haiti. Filled with fascinating people and histories, The Address Book illuminates the complex and sometimes hidden stories behind street names and their power to name, to hide, to decide who counts, who doesn’t-and why”-- Provided by publisher.

For more event information, visit www.seekonkpl.org or email library@seekonkpl.org.

Spring Movie Pick at Seekonk Library

Wednesday, May 29 at 5:30 PM

Skip the wait to borrow the DVD by watching this popular 2023 movie; come and see this DVD release for FREE at Seekonk Public Library:

This film starring Jeffrey Wright follows the personal and professional life of writer “Monk” Ellison, whose career is stalled until he uses a pseudonym to release a satirical novel challenging the publishing world. Rated R. Running time: 1 hour 56 minutes

Licensing prevents us from printing titles; call the library at 508336-8230 ext. 56130 or email library@seekonkpl.org for the title and other details. Register in the calendar at seekonkpl.org/events for planning purposes and to receive any program updates.

Seekonk Paper Shred Day

Saturday,

June 1 from 9 AM- noon

Seekonk residents, join us at the Seekonk Public Library for a Seekonk Shred Day scheduled for Saturday, June 1, 2024 from 9 AM to 12 noon. This event is for Seekonk Library cardholders and Seekonk residents only and is sponsored by the Town of Seekonk Recycling Committee and the Friends of Seekonk Library, a nonprofit organization that provides financial assistance for the goals of the Seekonk Library. Participants will need to present their id or Seekonk library card at the event.

Bring your confidential paper items to the ProShred mobile shredding truck in the library parking lot for secure, on-site destruction and recycling. Participants will personally bring material to the shredding truck, see materials loaded into the shredder, and carry away your own empty bags or boxes.

There is a limit of two bags or boxes per trip.

This is a rain or shine event.

Register online at seekonkpl.org/events to receive email in case there are any changes to the event.

Call the Adult Services department at (508) 336-8230 or email library@seekonkpl.org for more information.

Read Like You’re a Kid Again with Adults Summer Reading

Adults, read like you’re a kid again this summer with the 2024 Adults Smokey Bear Reading Challenge, June 1 through July 31. All adults are welcome to use this challenge to choose your own books and track the number of titles read for your personal goals or to track minutes read to help the library’s community reading goal. Register or login and sign up at seekonkpl.beanstack.org or the free Beanstack app today! If you registered for our previous summer

or winter challenge, use your existing login to sign up for this new challenge. Use the free Beanstack app for easy participation on the go.

To fully participate in this year’s theme, you can help Smokey celebrate his 80th birthday by learning about environmental conservation, ecology and sustainability, which of course includes preventing wildfires! Read related books, attend themed programs or earn activity badges to complete the challenge. By signing up you can look forward to prize drawings for active participants. Log your reading, share reviews, and complete activities for more chances to win!

For more information, email library@seekonkpl.org or call the Adult Service Librarians at 508-336-8230.

Seekonk Public Library Launches its Annual Community Survey

As part of its commitment to serving the needs of the community, the Seekonk Public Library announces the launch of its annual Community Survey. The survey aims to gather valuable insights from residents to better understand their preferences and priorities, ultimately shaping future services and spaces offered by the library.

With the rapid evolution of technology and changing community needs, the library recognizes the importance of staying attuned to residents’ needs. The community survey, consisting of 15 thoughtfully crafted questions, provides an opportunity for individuals to voice their opinions and contribute to the enhancement of library services and spaces.

The survey covers various aspects of library services and spaces, including book collections, digital resources, programming, facility amenities, and more. Designed to be quick and easy to complete, the survey should take approximately 5 minutes of respondents’ time.

We encourage all members of the community to participate in the survey and share their thoughts with us,” added Kathleen Hibbert, Library Director. “The feedback we receive will play a vital role in shaping the future direction of the library and enhancing the experiences of our patrons”.

The survey will be accessible through the library’s website, www.seekonkpl.org, and social media pages, and paper copies will be available at the library for those who prefer a traditional format. The survey will be available from May 1 through May 24.

Programs for Teens & Tweens

Drones Over Seekonk: A Special “What Do You Know?” Program

Thursday, May 9 at 3:00 PM

This month’s STEM program for tweens and teens features a drone demonstration by Mike Neilan, co-founder and director of marketing and operations of Focus Forward Media, a Rhode Island-based production and advertising company specializing in video production, photography, and branding. Mike will give a brief presentation on drones and their use in media production, then he’ll fly his camera drone over the Seekonk Meadows and record a video from the sky. Participants will also have the opportunity to fly one of two standard Hornet drones, provided to the library through the Civil Air Patrol’s Aerospace Education program.

This 1-hour event is free and open to tweens and teens in grades 6 through 12. Registration is required for each month’s activity.

For more information, call Adult Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email teens@seekonkpl.org.

Third Thursday Club for Tweens and Teens

Thursday, May 16 at 3:00 PM

The theme for this month’s Third Thursday Club is simple: Food and Fun! Celebrate the end of the school year with board games, music, and pizza. A variety of games will be provided, but feel free to bring your own if you want to share a favorite from home.

This 1-hour event is free and open to tweens and teens in grades 6 through 12. Registration is required.

For more information, call Adult Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email teens@seekonkpl.org.

Spring Cleaning: A Dungeons & Dragons RPG

Monday, May 20 at 4:00 PM

The spring thaw is well underway and Jake the skeleton is recruiting heroes to help clear out the mountain pass of the dead and give them a proper burial. Your payment? Treasure once thought lost forever in the winter snow. But these mountains are home to something far more terrible than inclement weather…

Experience immersive tactical combat with miniatures and terrain! No experience necessary. Dice and Pre-Generated Characters Provided. This adventure will be led by Midsummer Games’ Brandon Morgan, a professional Dungeon Master with over 60 hours of experience and the creator of all original program content.

This 2-hour event is free and open to tweens and teens in grades 6 through 12. Space is very limited so register now!

For more information, call Adult Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email teens@seekonkpl.org.

From the Children’s Room Free Comic Book Day

Saturday, May 4, 9-5 PM

It is “Free Comic Book Day” 2024! This year Free Comic Book Day falls on “Star Wars Day: May the 4th Be With You.” In celebration, we are having Star Wars-inspired activities throughout the children’s room. Find all the objects in our Star Wars scavenger hunt, then enter to win a Star Wars Prize pack. Star Wars-inspired craft to take and make. Star Wars books to check out, and an interactive bulletin board. Free comic books are available while supplies last.

Beginner Crochet for Kids

Tuesday, May 7, 6:30 PM

Kids in grades 3-5 are invited to learn some basic crochet stitches. We’ll learn the chain stitch, single crochet, and double crochet as well as casting off. All materials will be provided and kids will leave with their own crochet hook. Registration is required.

Paws to Read

Wednesdays, May 8 & 22, 3-4:30 PM (timeslots)

Build reading skills and gain confidence in reading aloud! Reserve a time slot to have your child read to Gizmo and Pepe, two adorable chihuahua/pomeranian mix therapy dogs. Research has shown that reading aloud to another person can help struggling readers with their overall performance and confidence. Did you know that reading comprehension improves even more when reading to a dog rather than an adult? It’s true! Registration is required.

All About Me!

Friday, May 10, 3:30 PM

Kids in grades K-3 join Ms. Corey for an after-school event where we will discover everything about you. We will read a story, draw self-portraits, and create life-size characters filled with things about you. Registration is required.

Meet R2D2 and Joe Francazio

Satuday, May 18, 10 AM

Have you ever wondered how R2-D2 and other droids from the Star Wars movies are built? Joe Francazio is a member of the New England Droid Builders. He will bring his fully functional replica R2D2. Joe will be here for a presentation on building droids, talk to us about how R2-D2 was created, answer questions, and have time to take pictures with R2-D2. Registration is required.

Book Chat: Grades 4 & 5

Thursday, May 30, 6 PM

Read “Leonard (My Life as a Cat)” by Carlie Sorosiak, then join us for a book discussion and book-related activity, Thursday, May 16, 6:00-6:45 pm. Ebooks and audiobooks are available. Registration is required.

STORYTIMES

Baby & Toddler Storytime - Mon, May 6, 13, 20 10 AM

Join Ms Corey for a special storytime just for children ages birth - 3. There will be a story, fingerplays, music, singing, and of course, bubbles! Siblings welcome. Drop in.

Preschool Storytime - Thursdays, May 9, 16, 23 10 AM

Join Ms Sandie for a weekly storytime for the preschool crowd (ages 3-5)! Younger siblings are welcome! Ages 3-5. Drop in.

Storytime on the Go - May 1-31

Create a storytime experience at home with Storytime On The Go packets. Each packet will include 6 books and an age ageappropriate literacy activity.

The early literacy activities will support one or more of the five early literacy practices: talking, singing, reading, writing, and playing. Storytime On The Go packets are available for toddlers and preschoolers. Stop by the Children’s Room to pick yours up! While supplies last.

News and Notes from... Blanding Library

By Leslie Patterson

Mother’s Day Tea May 11

You are invited to enjoy afternoon tea with Mrs. Michael Gordon, a fictional middle-class housewife from 1908, at Goff Hall on Sat. May 11 at 2pm. Mrs. Gordon, an amusing storyteller, will talk about different aspects of her life. In addition to an afternoon tea, this is an interactive show where the audience is free to ask questions of Mrs. Gordon and can share their own stories if they wish. The audience will definitely feel as if they are speaking to a woman from the turn of the 20th century. Bring your mother, your daughter, or a friend to enjoy this immersive, educational, and delicious experience, just in time for Mother’s Day! Please call the library to register at (508) 252-4236.

American Folk Revival May 15

On Wed. May 15 at 6:30, Andrew Lewis and Michael Shea will present Songs and Stories of the American Folk Revival. Their 75-minute show will present a history of the folk revival, highlighting the most influential songs of the period. A living history of the folk revival of the 1960s, they include the audience in their songs as well, telling the stories and singing the songs of the musicians and how each song shares its meaning.

Songs & Stories of Johnny Cash June 9

On Sun. June 9 at 6:30, country musician and author Matt York will perform the songs of Johnny Cash and tell stories about Cash’s career, spanning from his early beginnings in the 1950s to his passing in 2003. York was recently nominated for the Boston Music Award for Best Country Artist and his album Gently Used was named one of Patriot Ledger’s best albums of 2022. This program is made possible by a grant from the Rehoboth Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass. Cultural Council, a state agency.

Children’s Events in May

• May brings flowers, fun, a spring Story Walk around the library’s front garden, and fairies and gnomes! All month, Seek & Find Elusive Fairies and Roaming Gnomes will be hiding in various places downstairs in the library. Find them all for a prize. They’ll be moving about, so be sure to look hard. Be sure to stop by the Children’s area to build your own garden gate fit for a fairy or gnome. Supplies will be provided to make here or take home this wee craft.

• Mental Health Awareness Month has been observed in May in the US since 1949. A display of books for various age levels will be in the Young Adult area featuring topics such as understanding feelings and the importance of taking care of ourselves and others. No one is too young to begin learning and talking about emotions.

• The Mass Teen Choice Book Award 2024 nominees are also on display in the Young Adult area. This Bay State award invites students in grades 7-12 to select their top new books of the year. The list of 21 nominees has been curated by a committee of public librarians, school library media spe-

cialists and educators. Readers are invited to select and read titles throughout the summer, voting for their favorites in September.

Looking Ahead to Summer

• Children’s Book Sale starts June 4! The Friends of the Blanding Library will sponsor a sale of gently used books for children during library hours from June 4 to June 8; books are $4 a bag. Please note that adults must be accompanied by a child at this sale.

• The 2024 Summer Reading Program’s theme Read, Renew, Repeat! features the idea of conservation. Be prepared for waves of fun activities, programs, and a visit with a whale. Our library summer kick-off starts June 26 with OneUpGames presentation of indoor LED Miniature Golf. Then Miss Frizzle brings dinosaurs in July, followed by more programs throughout the summer for all ages. All program dates will be posted on our library website’s Programs and Event Calendar as the summer approaches.

• Ongoing children’s programs at the Blanding include Tot Time, Preschool Story Hour, Kids Book Club for grades K-4, and a monthly Legos session. Check the Blanding’s website calendar for dates and time. You can find out more about Blanding programs on the library’s website, www.blandinglibrary.net. You can also call the library at 508-252-4236.

The Blanding Public Library, 124 Bay State Rd. Rehoboth, is open Monday through Thursday from 10 to 8 and on Fridays and Saturdays from 10 to 4. Closed Sundays and holidays, including Mon. May 27 for Memorial Day.

Prom & Wedding 2024

Celebrating Love: Exploring Timeless Wedding Traditions

Weddings are a celebration of love, and across cultures, they are steeped in rich traditions that add depth and meaning to the occasion. From East to West, these customs reflect the values, beliefs, and heritage of the people who practice them. Let's delve into some of these enchanting wedding traditions that continue to inspire and unite couples around the world.

In Western weddings, the tradition of "Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue" symbolizes continuity, optimism, borrowed happiness, and fidelity. This charming rhyme encourages brides to incorporate sentimental items into their attire, adding a touch of nostalgia and sentiment to their special day.

In Indian weddings, the Mehndi ceremony is a vibrant and joyous celebration where intricate henna designs are applied to the bride's hands and feet. This tradition symbolizes love, joy, and prosperity, and is accompanied by music, dance, and laughter as the bride prepares for her journey into married life.

Jumping the broom is a tradition rooted in African American culture, symbolizing unity and commitment. Couples jump over a broom together, signifying their entrance into a new phase of life and their willingness to overcome challenges together.

Tea ceremonies are central to many Asian weddings, where the bride and groom serve tea to their parents and elders as a gesture of respect and gratitude. This ritual symbolizes the blending of families and the honoring of tradition.

The breaking of the glass is a poignant moment in Jewish weddings, symbolizing the fragility of life and the hope for happiness and prosperity. As the groom stomps on a glass wrapped in cloth, guests shout "Mazel tov!" celebrating the union of the couple.

Handfasting, originating from ancient Celtic traditions, involves binding the couple's hands together with ribbons or cords, symbolizing their commitment and unity.

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Atlantic Ocean, Hotel Tybee is the ideal spot for a destination wedding

These timeless wedding traditions, passed down through generations, serve as a reminder of the enduring power of love, unity, and cultural heritage. Regardless of where or how they are practiced, these customs celebrate the beauty of love and the promise of a lifetime together.

Promposals: Crafting Memorable Invitations

Promposals have become an integral part of the prom experience, with students getting increasingly creative in how they ask their dates to this special event. From sweet surprises to elaborate productions, promposals are all about making lasting memories. Some students opt for sweet surprises, incorporating candy, baked goods, or other treats into their invitations. Others choose to create puzzles or scavenger hunts, adding an element of fun and anticipation to the promposal experience.

For those with a flair for the dramatic, movie-themed promposals or musical serenades are popular choices, adding an extra layer of romance and excitement to the occasion. And for the DIY enthusiasts, handmade cards, posters, or other personalized creations are a heartfelt way to ask someone to prom.

No matter the method, the most important aspect of a promposal is the thought and effort put into making it special for both the asker and the recipient. After all, promposals are not just about asking someone to prom; they're about creating memories that will be cherished for years to come.

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Local Business Spotlight

Slo Spa and Salon: A Haven for Self-Care

“My

the Spa” by Michaela Oerman

As a busy full-time working mom of two, the relentless demands of everyday life often leave me feeling drained and overwhelmed. Desperately craving a break from the chaos, I recently treated myself to a day of relaxation at Slo Spa and Salon, and it was nothing short of a rejuvenating sanctuary.

Upon stepping into Slo Spa and Salon, I was immediately enveloped in an atmosphere of tranquility and warmth. The space was thoughtfully designed, with a seamless fusion of elegance and comfort. Divided into two sections, the salon on one side and the spa on the other, each exuded its own charm while maintaining a cohesive ambiance of serenity. The spa menu features massage therapy for singles or couples, body treatments, facials, waxing, and gentlemen’s’ treatments. The salon menu includes manicures, pedicures, full hair salon, makeup application, and men’s services.

The first thing that caught my eye was the uplifting messages adorned on the mirrors throughout the establishment. Phrases like “Love Yourself” and “You are beautiful” served as gentle reminders to prioritize self-love and acceptance—a thoughtful touch that instantly uplifted my spirits and set the tone for my experience.

The locker room provided a luxurious retreat, complete with the softest robes imaginable. Wrapping myself in one, I felt cocooned in plush comfort as I prepared for my much-needed escape from reality. Adjacent to the locker room was a serene relaxation area, where I savored moments of solitude while sipping on refreshing water.

My journey to relaxation commenced with a heavenly massage by the talented Lynne. With skilled hands that seemed to intuitively melt away tension, she expertly kneaded away the knots that had accumulated from weeks of stress. Each stroke was like a gentle whisper of relief, and as the minutes passed all too quickly, I found myself wishing for more time to bask in her healing touch.

Following the blissful massage, I was treated to a rejuvenating facial by the skilled esthetician, Kassandra. Using premium products and expert techniques, she worked her magic on my tired skin, leaving it radiant and glowing with newfound vitality. The personalized attention and meticulous care she bestowed upon me left me feeling pampered and refreshed.

Reflecting on my experience at Slo Spa and Salon, I am reminded of the importance of selfcare in today’s fast-paced world. Amidst the madness of juggling work, family, and endless obligations, it’s crucial to carve out moments of tranquility and prioritize our well-being. Slo Spa and Salon not only provided me with a muchneeded respite from the demands of daily life but also served as a gentle reminder to slow down, breathe, and nourish my body and soul.

Moreover, the convenience of online booking made scheduling my day of relaxation effortless. With just a few clicks after reviewing the menu, I was able to secure appointments for my massage and facial, wonderful for a busy mom like me.

I wholeheartedly recommend Slo Spa and Salon to anyone seeking solace and rejuvenation. With its serene ambiance, skilled practitioners, and unwavering commitment to self-care, it truly embodies the essence of relaxation and renewal. As they say at Slo, “There’s enough fast. It’s time for Slo.”

Treat yourself-you deserve it. Treat the mom in your life-she deserves it!

Slo Spa and Salon is located at 1589 Fall River Ave in Seekonk - ON THIS SIDE OF THE BRIDGE!

Nails & Spa

Mother’s Day Special Gift Card Special

319 Tremont St (#5), Rehoboth (Chartley Plaza)• 508.838.5326

Hours: T-F 9:30am-7pm | Sat 9:30am-6pm | Sun 10am-5pm sistersbeautyrehoboth@gmail.com

Cynthia

Lynn Thomas

Cynthia Lynn Thomas

Steven and Lidia Thomas as well as big brother Trevor McDuff of Rehoboth are excited to announce the birth of Hope Cynthia Lynn Thomas on April 9, 2024. Born at Women and Infants Hospital; Hope weighed 6lbs 11oz and was 19 inches long. Her proud grandparents are Luis and Leonor Ramos from Rehoboth; and Michael and Denise Thomas from Rehoboth.

Chestnut Street, Rehoboth, MA (508) 617-1634 • brilliantdahliaff@gmail.com

Francis Hall

Rehoboth Council on Aging

27 Francis Farm Road, Rehoboth

Phone 508-252-3372

Fax 508-252-4716

Monday - Thursday 8:00am to 4:00pm

Fridays 8:00am to Noon

The COA will be closed on Monday May 27th for Mwmorial Day

Breakfast

Mon / Wed / Fri From 8:30-10

Lunch

Mon / Wed @ Noon. Come join us

Gert’s Café

Monday May 13th @ Noon

Detective Paul McGovern will be our guest Chef tol cook an Asian Dinner

Memorial Day Picnic Monday May 20th @ Noon. Tickets $5.00

Book Club

The First Monday of Every Month from 10:00am Monday May 6th The Book for May is Marilla by Sarah McCoy

Join Our Walking Club

Mon-Wed-Friday 9:30AM

Please note new start time

NEW CLASS: Line Dancing

Mondays @ 1:00.

Eileen Pontes Instructor. $3.00 Donation

Join our Email List

Updates during the month COAmail@rehobothma.gov

Craft Supplies Needed

We have a Paper Crafting Class and a Jewelry/ Resin Making. We can always use extra supplies. Scrapbooking, Cricut Supplies, die cuts, embossing folders. Jewelry making and resin supplies. We are in need of cotton, flannel, and fleece fabric for sewing projects. We are accepting yarn donations for hats & blankets.

Your donations are greatly appreciated

ACTIVITIES

Mondays

8:30-10 BREAKFAST

9:00-11:00 Cribbage

9:30 Walking Club

10:00 Bocce

10:00 Cornhole Toss

Noon Gert’s Café ~ Ltd seating ~ $3.00

1:00 Line Dancing (NEW) $3.00

Tuesdays

9:00 Dancer-cise $3.00

10:00-Noon Jewelry Making Class $5.00

10:00 S.E.A.T

10:00 Sewing & Quilting

11:00 Blanace & Stretch Judy Rosa

1:00 Hi-Lo Jack

1:00- 3:00 Crafty Fun Classes $5 Wednesdays

8:30 - 10:00 Breakfast

10:00Fiber Arts (Knitting & Crochet get together. Jane Williams and Elaine Leite.

9:30 Walking Club

10:00 Bocce

10:00 Cornhole Toss

Noon Lunch

1:00-3:00 Acrylic Painting Class $5.00

1:00- Dominoes

Thursday

9:00 Tai Chi

10:00 Drums Alive $3.00

11:00 Stretch & Flex Class Judy Rosa

1:00-3:00 Paper Crafting Class includes Card Making, Stamping, etc. (FREE) 1:00-3:00 Watercolor Class $5.00

Friday

8:30 - 10:00 Breakfast (NEW)

9:30 Walking Club

10:00 Bocce

10:00 Cornhole Toss

10:00 Jenga

Rehoboth Public Health Nurse

Geraldine Hamel, RN MSN: Monday through Thursday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. 508252-6502 ext. 3127 or 508-252-5947

Stephanie Reis, RN BSN: 508-252-6052 ext. 3128

Offering multiple medical services for our Rehoboth citizens: Home Visits, Vaccinations. Support groups: Bereavement, Caregiver Assistance, Dementia Support and more

• Wellness Clinic Wednesday 11:00-Noon

• Podiatry Clinic: Last Thursday of the month

• Blood Pressures & Glucose Screenings:: Please contact Geri Hamel for more information.

Meals on Wheels:

Please contact Bristol Elders, Inc. at (508) 675-2101 for information on the Meals on Wheels program.

Sine Plumbing & Heating

Rehoboth Senior Citizens Club News

On April 18th we held our Annual Meeting at the Arcade building at the Francis Farm Complex. The motion made, seconded, and was approved to re-elect the current slate of officers for another year.

President - Donna Howard; Vice President - Steve Silva*; Secretary - Jane Williams; Treasurer - Clarence King

Our 50th anniversary celebration is very close now and many plans have come together. We are looking forward to sharing the event with you! There are a still few seats available for the event, so if you plan to attend, please call Jane Williams at 508-252-5440, or me at 508-965-9491.

Our next meeting will be May 16, 2024, at noon at the Arcade Building which is to the right of the farmhouse. At the meeting we will do the final planning of our Anniversary Celebration and continue discussions and planning for our bus trip to see a play, our Annual Fall Bazaar and other activities in the works.

There will be sandwiches from Cook’s House provided, donations accepted, and a potluck dessert. Water and Diet Pepsi will also be available.

Remember, RSCC meeting, May 16, 2024, at noon. Hope to see you there!

Donna Howard, President, RSCC

*Unfortunately, our faithful friend and loyal member, Steve Silva, passed away shortly after the April meeting. We will miss him very much.

From the State House

Boston – Norton will receive $546,160, Rehoboth will receive $623,996, Seekonk will receive $587,425, and Swansea will receive $566,305 in Chapter 90 road and bridge funding in Fiscal Year 2025, as part of a $375 million transportation infrastructure bond bill supported by State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R-Seekonk).

Representative Howitt noted that more than half of the bond bill funding – $200 million – is devoted to the Chapter 90 program, which was created by the Legislature in 1973 to assist cities and towns with the maintenance of their local roads and bridges.

House Bill 4529 also sets aside $25 million for the rural road program, which was created in 2023 to assist rural communities with the construction and reconstruction of municipal ways.

Representative Howitt Rejects Proposal to Provide Another $426M for Migrant Shelter Crisis

Criticizes conference committee report for lack of reforms to control costs

Boston – State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R-Seekonk) recently opposed a supplemental budget conference committee report that would provide up to $426 million in surplus funding for the state’s emergency housing system, saying the proposal lacks meaningful reforms and does nothing to stem the flow of new migrant arrivals seeking shelter who have stretched the program to its limits.

Representative Howitt also said the “reforms” included in the supplemental budget to limit how long families can remain in the shelter system are too open-ended and may only perpetuate the problem.

Representative Howitt had previously voted against the supplemental budget when it first came before the House of Representatives on March 6. At the time, he raised concerns that without implementing meaningful reforms, many longtime Massachusetts residents could find themselves being denied access to housing assistance due to the continued arrival of individuals and families from out of state seeking shelter.

Seekonk Human Services

The center is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 8:30am - 4:30pm, and Wednesday 8:30am - 5:30pm and Friday 8:30am - 12:00pm. We welcome all to come and enjoy the activities and companionship at Seekonk

The office will be closed on Monday, May 27th for Memorial Day

Silver Tea

Wed May 8, 2024 at 12 Noon

You are cordially invited to attend a Silver Tea Honoring women in Seekonk Age 75 and Older. The Tea will be held at Seekonk Senior Center, 540 Arcade Avenue

Hosted by Seekonk Human Services & Funded by Friends of Friends Community Services Inc. Limited Seating Available R.S.V.P. (508) 336-8772 by April 22, 2024

*Seekonk Residents Only*

Arts & Crafts

From 9:30am - 11:30am

The fee for residents is $5 and nonresidents is $10. May 3, 2024 - Wine Glass Painting

May 17, 2024 - Fabric Wreaths

June 7, 2024 - Sea Glass Art

June 21, 2024 - Felt Flowers

Contact the office for more information. Preregistration is required with payment.

Mother’s Day Ice Cream Social

Monday, May 13, 2024 at 2:00pm

Let’s celebrate with an ice cream social! Come on down to enjoy some ice cream inside or outside on the picnic tables (weather pending) and good company. This event is open to all! A suggested donation of $2 is encouraged to help offset the cost but is not required. Preregistration is required.

Music Bingo

Wed, May 22, 2024 at 1:00pm

Do you love music? Do you love Bingo? Then you’ll love Musical Bingo. It will be held at Seekonk Human Services. You will hear all the songs you grew up listening to in a Bingo format. It’s the best of both worlds. Great music. Great friends. Great prizes. Don’t miss it! Preregistration is required.

Healthy Aging

Lunch &

Learn

Wed, May 29, 2024 at 11:30am

Bristol Elder Services Registered Dietitian, Dawn DiMarco, will be doing Nutrition Trivia. If you are looking for nutrition advice, always ask a Registered Dietitian. The menu is chicken salad, pasta salad, coleslaw, cupcakes and Crystal Light. Preregistration is required.

Mat Exercise Class

Thursday, 9am—9:45am

This class is group led and incorporates mats, chairs, blocks and straps to achieve poses and deep stretches. All movements can be adapted to various skill levels. Mats and blocks are available, but feel free to bring your own. Wear stretchy clothing and yoga socks or choose to go barefoot. Make sure to bring water! If you are interested in trying this class out, please call the office at 508-336-8772. Space is limited so be sure to sign up! Space limited.

Podiatry Clinic

Wed, May 29th 10:00am - 2:30pm

Dr. Lechan provides monthly podiatry clinics. An ap-appointment is required. Items needed are insurance cards with your primary doctor’s name, date of last doctor’s visit, summary of last visit, and list of medications. *Please check with your insurance regarding co-pays. Please call our office to make an appointment.

Blood Pressure /Glucose Clinic

Wed, May 15, 2024 9:00 - 11:00am

Seekonk Human Services continues to work with the Seekonk Fire Department to provide free monthly blood pressure & glucose screenings.

Let’s Learn Together!

Tuesday, May 28, 2024 at 2:30pm

Do you have questions about using your smartphone, or tablet? Bring them to the Tech Help Hour. The goal of this session is to help each other learn how to use technology better. There is no set agenda, just your questions and answer, favorite tips and tools. This program is moderated by Seekonk Public Library staff. Bring your own tablet, phone, or laptop. Please make sure your device is fully charged. Contact our office to register by calling 508-336-8772.

Celebrating Older Americans Month

Older Americans Month 2024 is celebrated every May. This year’s theme, “Powered by Connection,” recognizes the profound impact that meaningful relationships and social connections have on our health and well-being. It emphasizes the vital role that connectedness plays in supporting independence and aging in place by combatting isolation, loneliness, and other related issues. Here are some ways to participate: 1. Share

Facts: Spread awareness about the mental, physical, and emotional health benefits of social connection and how it contributes to overall well-being. 2. Promote Resources: Encourage older adults to engage in community events, social clubs, and volunteer opportunities. 3. Connect Locally: Help older adults access local services, such as transportation, that can facilitate meaningful relationships.

Telephone Reassurance Program

Our office will make a telephone call to an individual’s home at approximately the same time each day Monday through Friday (during our operating business hours only). This program is designed to connect people in need with ongoing, caring human contact and conversation. If we do not receive an answer, we will call back shortly after. If we do not receive an answer the second time, Public Safety will be called to check on the individual’s status. The Telephone Reassurance Program provides a peace of mind for the individual and their loved ones. This program is designed for senior citizens, disabled persons and shut-ins living in Seekonk who may be at risk of loneliness, social isolation, illness or injury.If you, or you know someone you know is interested in this program, please call Nicole at Human Services at 508-336-8772.

Cribbage Thursdays at 11am

Whether you are a seasoned cribbage player looking to meet new people, test your skills, or a new player looking to learn to play, join or new weekly cribbage group! All skill levels invited and supplies provided. Preregistration is required.

Encore Casino

Friday, June 28, 2024

Price: $39.00 Per Person

Location: Boston Harbor

Depart 8:30am Return Approx 5:30pm

The casino at Encore Boston Harbor brings glamour on a grand scale to the riverfront. Enter the main floor - open and

airy, colorful and vibrant! Try your luck with 2,800+ slot machines, including classic favorites, automated tables and the newest game titles. Enjoy 166 table games, from craps and roulette to blackjack and baccarat, all at state-of-the-art tables with superior service. It all adds up to an exciting, memorable five-star experience unlike anywhere else in Boston. Trip Includes: *Casino Time: 10:00am-4:00pm (Casino Package subject to change). *Casino Package - $20 free slot play. *Deluxe Motorcoach Transportation. Gratuity. Payment due at registration

Nutritional Meals To Go

Tues / Wed / Thurs

Bristol Elder Services provides nutritional meals for lunch on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays to go. Meals come completely cooked and prepackaged. Meals need to be ordered the day before by 9:30am. Suggested donation of $2.25 per meal which will be due at the time of pickup. The May menu is available at our office and on our Facebook page.

Medical Loan Closet

Our FREE Medical Loan Closet is available for Seekonk residents. Our inventory is dependent on donated items received, but may be limited based on need and space. For more information, please call 508-3368772 *30 Day Rental

JUMPIN’ JUBA - Steve Hurl

Wed, June 5, 2024 at 1:00pm

Jumpin’ Juba play blues-based rootsrock and classic rock for your listening and dancing pleasure. They are requested favorites at many MA senior centers. The group features Steve Hurl on electric fingerstyle and slide guitar plus vocals, with Dave Lockeretz on upright bass. This program is supported by a grant from the Seekonk Cultural Council. Registration opens May 15th.

Author Alison O’Leary

“Seen by Sea”

Wed, June 12, 2024 at 1:00pm

Alison topic is about **Seen by Sea: An Appreciation of the New England Coast. Enjoy the sights and histories of New England’s many ports from Providence to Bar Harbor, with insight into industries, im-migrants, and traditions that shaped our coastal towns. Registration opens May 15th.

4th of July Celebration

Wed, June 26, 2024 at 11:30am

Join us for an afternoon of patriotic songs, fun and a lunch. Musical entertainment will be Frank Noonan. Lunch will be hot dogs & hamburgers. The fee for resident $7.00, and non–residents $10.00. Registration opens May 15th.

Activities and Programs

Mondays

Movement & Meditation 10am

Canasta 11:30am

Strength & Cardio 1pm

Oil Painting 2pm

Tuesdays

Drums Alive 9am

Watercolors 10am

Hi Lo Jack 1pm

Wednesdays

Stability and Balance 8:45am

Drums Alive 9:30am

Tribal Grooves 11:00am

Mahjong 1pm

Thursdays

Mat Exercise 9am

Movement & Meditation 10am

Cribbage 11am

Hi Lo Jack 1pm

BINGO 1pm

Fridays

Dance Cardio 9:15am

Tai Chi 10:30am

*All activities are subject to pre-registration

Email List

Join our email list! Things are changing so quickly these days and we want to be able to get the word out to you quickly. Please give us a call and give us your email address; we want to share fun activities, links to zoon and other virtual programing you may like.

Parks & Recreation

May is here and the weather is slowly starting to warm up. Hopefully for most of us, that means more time being spent outside. If you have not been continuing to do so during winter, it is definitely time to start wearing your sunscreen, and making sure you have plenty of water on hand for your travels. Don’t forget some snacks to keep you energized. Trail mix is a great option because there are so many ways to customize it to your taste preferences. I am a fan of the Gorp style with pea-nuts, M&M’s, cheerios and raisins. Some prefer to have no candy, but add in pretzels, coconuts or other dried fruits. There really is no wrong way to make it! Pinterest is a great resource for finding new flavor combinations. Try looking up some trail mix ideas also! Stay safe on the trails, stop to admire the flowers and enjoy your adventures!!

Veterans Corner

Memorial Day Parade

Saturday, May 25, 2024

10:00am Step Off

Starts at Seekonk High School

Ends at Hurley Middle School

Memorial Day Ceremony

Seekonk Veterans Memorial Park

410 Newman Avenue 11:30am

For any additional information, questions or if you have a group that would like to participate; please contact Seekonk Veterans Services at (508)336-2940 or via email jlaflame@seekonk-ma.gov.

Seekonk Women’s Luncheon

Everyone had a great time at Longhorns Steakhouse in Seekonk for their April luncheon. The food was great, the portions were enough for 2 meals, and our server was wonderful.

The center is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 8:30am4:30pm, Wednesday 8:30am - 5:30pm and Friday 8:30am - 12:00pm. Come and enjoy the activities and companionship at your center.

* NOTE: *Seekonk Human Services is primarily an informational and referral agency. We try to help you directly or by introducing you to a network of federal, state, or local support services. Seekonk Human Services offers legal, financial, recreational, medical screenings, and other activities/services by volunteers or nominally paid practitioners. Participation in these services/activities is with the understanding that Seekonk Human Services, Town of Seekonk, or its employees do not assume any legal or other responsibility for advice of services rendered by such volunteers or nominal cost practitioners.

Women’s Luncheon in April

Food & Dining Guide

(Family Features) While meals savored with loved ones are intended to produce smiles and shared moments, the process of grocery shopping, planning and cooking has become a chore for many families. Take the first step toward bringing back the joy and magic of making your favorite foods with tools that do the work for you.

For example, the all-in-one Albertsons Meal Plans and Recipes tool allows you to focus on what you want to eat rather than what you need to buy as it empowers everyday home cooks to plan, shop and prepare personalized recipes based on dietary preferences, allergies or family likes and dislikes. The app features a library of 9,000 exclusive recipes created by professional chefs (with new recipes added each month) and includes tasty dishes such as Sheet Pan Cajun Shrimp Fajitas with Bell Pepper, Onion and Spicy Ranch; Cheese Tortellini and Cauliflower with Creamy Spinach Marinara; and Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Tenders with Green Beans and Honey Mustard Dip.

The free digital tool also includes an artificial intelligence-powered “Scan Your Own Recipe” feature that allows you to snap a photo with your phone of grandma’s handwritten, not-so-secret recipe and transforms it into a digital version saved in the app. Recipes are instantly turned into shoppable ingredients and added to your cart for quick, convenient checkout. Now, you can turn all of your recipes into a digital library for quick and easy access in one place. No more flipping through cookbooks or recipe cards searching for your favorites.

Designed to provide culinary inspiration throughout the week while saving time and money, the app also features a budget tracker and hands-free cooking mode with a step-by-step timer.

“The Albertsons Meal Plans tool is the ultimate life hack,” said Jill Pavlovich, senior vice president of digital customer experience for Albertsons Cos. “This all-in-one app makes it simple for anyone to plan, shop and prepare inspiring recipes from anywhere – whether it is an old family favorite, a bestseller from a favorite food blogger or one of our 9,000 delicious recipes. Best of all, it’s completely free to use on our grocery app and website.”

The tool is available on the store apps and websites across the Albertsons Cos. banner of stores including Albertsons, Safeway, Vons, Jewel-Osco, Shaw’s, Acme, Tom Thumb, Randalls, United Supermarkets, Pavilions, Star Market, Haggen, Carrs, Kings Food Markets and Balducci’s Food Lovers Market.

Find more information and a seemingly endless collection of recipes at Albertsons. com.

Sheet Pan Cajun Shrimp Fajitas with Bell Pepper, Onion and Spicy Ranch

Time: 30 minutes ~ Servings: 4

• 2 green bell peppers

• 2 yellow bell peppers

• 1 lime

• 1 medium red onion

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 1/2 pounds raw, peeled shrimp, fresh or frozen

• 5 teaspoons Cajun seasoning, divided

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup ranch dressing

• 12 small flour tortillas

Directions:

Preheat oven to 450 F.

Wash and dry green bell peppers, yellow bell peppers and lime.

Trim, seed and slice bell peppers lengthwise into thin strips; transfer to baking sheet.

Peel, halve and slice onion lengthwise into thin pieces; add to baking sheet with bell peppers.

Drizzle veggies with oil, toss to combine and spread in even layer. Bake until veggies have softened slightly, about 5 minutes.

If using frozen shrimp, place them in colander and run under cold water to thaw slightly. Place shrimp on clean towel or paper towels and pat dry.

Remove baking sheet from oven. Arrange shrimp over veggies then sprinkle with 4 teaspoons Cajun seasoning and salt; toss to combine and spread in even layer.

Bake until veggies are tender and shrimp are cooked through, 5-7 minutes.

Cut lime into wedges.

In small bowl, stir ranch dressing and remaining Cajun seasoning.

Warm tortillas in skillet, oven or microwave, if desired.

Divide tortillas between plates and fill with shrimp and veggies; drizzle with spicy ranch and serve with squeeze of lime.

Cheese Tortellini and Cauliflower with Creamy Spinach Marinara

Time: 20 minutes ~ Servings: 4

• 2 bags (10 ounces ea) cauliflower florets

• 18 ounces cheese tortellini, fresh or frozen

• 1/2 tablespoon salt

• 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce

• 8 fluid ounces heavy whipping cream

• 1/2 teaspoon basil, dried

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 2 packages (5 ounces ea) baby spinach

Directions:

Fill large pot halfway with hot water, cover and bring to boil. Uncover then add cauliflower, tortellini and salt; stir for a few seconds. Cook, stirring occasionally, until just tender, about 5 minutes, or cook according to package instructions.

In separate large pot over medium heat, stir marinara sauce, cream, basil and black pepper to combine and bring sauce to simmer. Once simmering, reduce heat to medium-low and cook until slightly thickened, 3-4 minutes.

Wash and dry spinach.

When sauce has thickened, add spinach to pot in handfuls, waiting for spinach to wilt slightly before adding next handful. Remove from heat and cover to keep warm.

When cauliflower and tortellini are done, drain and add to pot with creamy marinara sauce; stir to combine.

To serve, divide pasta between plates or bowls.

Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Tenders with Green Beans and Honey Mustard Dip

Time: 30 minutes ~ Servings: 4

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon salt, divided

• 2/3 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded

• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 1/2 pounds green beans

• 1/2 cup honey mustard dressing

Directions:

Preheat oven to 450 F. Coat baking sheet with 2 teaspoons oil.

In medium bowl, stir mayo, garlic powder and 1/2 teaspoon salt to combine.

In separate medium bowl, stir Parmesan, breadcrumbs and paprika to combine.

Pat chicken dry with paper towels and slice into 3/4-inch tenders. Add to bowl with mayo mixture and toss to coat.

Working in batches, dredge tenders in breadcrumb coating, pressing to adhere. Transfer to baking sheet.

Bake until tenders start to turn golden, about 10 minutes.

On clean cutting board, wash, dry and trim green beans. Set aside.

When chicken is golden, flip and bake until cooked through, 6-8 minutes. Remove from oven.

Preheat large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add remaining oil and swirl to coat bottom. Add green beans and remaining salt; cook, stirring occasionally, until tender-crisp, 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat.

Divide chicken tenders and green beans between plates. Serve with dressing for dipping.

D-R Hires New Athletic Director

By Joe Siegel

Matt McKinnon

Matt McKinnon has been hired to serve as the DightonRehoboth Regional School District’s Director of Athletics and Activities, effective July 1. Superintendent Bill Runey said the decision comes after a thorough selection process conducted by a district screening committee and Central Office.

“Mr. McKinnon’s extensive background in education and athletic administration, coupled with his passion for student engagement, makes him an ideal fit for this pivotal role,” Runey said in a statement Friday. “His dedication to fostering a positive and inclusive environment aligns seamlessly with the values of our district. His innovative ideas and proven track record make him an invaluable addition to our District Leadership Team. I am confident that under his guidance, our students will thrive.”

“I’d like to thank the screening committee, Superintendent Runey, and the entire Dighton-Rehoboth administration for this tremendous opportunity to join the #WeAreDR community,” said McKinnon. “This is a vibrant, passionate, and hard working district, and I look forward to embodying that spirit in everything we do. We will strive for excellence on and off the playing surfaces to help these young adults become the leaders of tomorrow.”

Runey said McKinnon will be formally introduced to the community at an upcoming School Committee meeting, where “he will have the opportunity to share his vision for the future of athletics and activities within the district.”

Beckwith Middle School Principal Honored

By Joe Siegel

Steve Donovan, Principal of Beckwith Middle School, has been named Principal of the Year, and Beckwith teacher Sarah Boutsady has been honored as Teacher of the Year by The Massachusetts Congress of Parents and Teachers, also known as the Massachusetts State PTA.

“We are incredibly proud of Dr. Donovan and Ms. Boutsady for their outstanding achievements and contributions to our #WeAreDR community. Their passion,

dedication, and commitment to excellence serve as an inspiration to us all,” said Dighton Rehoboth School Superintendent Bill Runey.

“These well-deserved awards are a testament to the hard work and unwavering commitment of two outstanding educators,” said Rehoboth PTSA President Courtenay St. Germain.

“Dr. Donovan’s exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to educational excellence have garnered him the prestigious Principal of the Year award,” St. Germain added. “His visionary approach to school administration, coupled with a profound dedication to student success, has set a benchmark for educational leadership within the district and beyond.”

The two were honored on Saturday in Lexington at the Mass State PTA meeting.

Dighton-Rehoboth Student Named Outstanding CTE Scholar

By Joe Siegel

A Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School senior was recently named one of 50 outstanding CTE Scholars in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Dennis Correia has been in the Marketing program for four years. He is the major producer of content in the program.

An awards banquet, hosted by The Massachusetts Association of Vocational Administrators (MAVA) was held on April 11 at Mechanics Hall in Worcester. The event attracts more than 500 educators, public officials, parents, and students to honor these promising seniors.

Correia has a number of original posters that he has designed for the high school Marketing program. He has completed a two-poster advertising set for the CTE office promoting DightonRehoboth’s seven CTE Programs to the two middle schools and throughout our towns.

“Dennis has also developed the logo for the Falcons Nest school store and has been instrumental in producing banners with our newest wide-format printer,” said Superintendent Bill Runey.

Correia also has worked for his family’s tattoo business and keeps a part-time job working with younger students as a coach and event coordinator at Teamworks, a local recreation and party center. He is anticipating entering a career in the real estate world after his graduation.

“Dennis is a two-sport athlete competing in Football and Basketball for the high school teams. He exhibits leadership qualities on the athletic fields and in the Marketing Program, taking on projects that require creativity and timeliness. He is always professional in his customer-client relationships,” Runey added.

Pictured L-R: Marketing Teacher Patricia Madsen, Dennis Correia, and Bill Runey

South Coast Academic All-Star Falcons

Lily Zink, Beckwith Middle School’s Project 351 Ambassador

Lily Zink is Beckwith Middle School’s Project 351 Ambassador this year. She is one of the 351 eighth-grade service ambassadors representing the cities and towns in the Commonwealth. This year’s class of ambassadors were joined by Governor Healey and Senator Markey during a Launch Day Event in January. Lily organized a successful clothing drive here at Beckwith for her Spring Service Project.

(L-R) Principal Jaqueline Ash, Jacob Coutu, Lucy Latour, Sophia Lin, Kylie Mirra, Jane Kostka, and Superintendent Bill Runey

Massachusetts Service Ambassadors

Lily Zink donated 18 bags of clothing!

Beckwith Middle School Debate Team Massasoit League Champions

On April 26th, the Beckwith Middle School Debate Team captured the Massasoit League Championship at the Debate Meet held at Hurley Middle School in Seekonk.

An unprecedented milestone was reached as every member of the Beckwith Middle School Debate Team, namely Abbie Oldmixon, Skylar Duvally, Connor Levinson, Kaelyn Reed, and Rylie Vickies, advanced to the Semi-Finals, marking a significant first for the team.

The remarkable performances continued with Abbie Oldmixon and Skylar Duvally securing 1st Place, while Connor Levinson and Rylie Vickies claimed 2nd Place overall.

Beckwith Middle School emerged as the highest-scoring team at the Meet, earning them the prestigious Massasoit Debate League Trophy now proudly displayed at the school office.

Hats off to the incredible 2024 Beckwith Middle School Debate Team for their exceptional achievements!

Rehoboth Antiquarian Society Scholarship

The Rehoboth Antiquarian Society ( RAS ) is accepting applications for the 2024-2025 second semester scholarship. Applicants must be planning to major in a field related to museum or library studies. This may include museum or library sciences, history, archaeology, anthropology, conservation, restoration, preservation, etc. Eligible students live in Rehoboth or its surrounding communities or have a significant connection to Rehoboth. Seekonk students are encouraged to apply. The student should be enrolled in or accepted by an academic institution or a school that offers programs aligned with our mission and lead to a degree or certificate. Additional information and an application can be found on our website (https://rehobothantiquarian.org/ras-scholarship/) The deadline for applications is Friday, June 21, 2024.

CARLSON TREE

Beckwith Debate Team

Beckwith Debaters at the competition

Drainage Issues?

Palmer River Elementary School News

Palmer River Elementary School (PRES) has been buzzing with excitement and positive energy as students and staff came together to celebrate achievements and engage in fun and enriching activities.

One notable highlight of the month was the recognition of students who exemplified April’s character trait of resiliency. At PRES, resilience is celebrated as an essential quality that empowers students to overcome challenges and thrive in the face of adversity.

Adding to the excitement, giant floor maps of North America and Massachusetts made a visit to PRES courtesy of the Center for the Advancement of STEM Education (CASE) at Bridgewater State University.

Mrs. Hall, who organized this enriching activity, ensured that students had a hands-on experience exploring geography and learning about different regions.

In another thrilling event, Spot the Robotic Dog made a special appearance at PRES. Spot’s presence sparked curiosity and excitement among students. This interactive experience provided a unique opportunity for students to engage with cutting-edge technology and explore the possibilities of robotics.

The Palmer River Elementary School community also came together for a wonderful community event sponsored by the PTSA, The Harlem Wizards.

The event was a hit, drawing a large turnout and providing fun for all attendees. The highly anticipated Teachers VS. Harlem Wizards basketball game brought laughter, cheers, and entertainment to all who attended. The game showcased the spirit of camaraderie and friendly competition among staff and the Harlem Wizard players.

Students also had the chance to learn about the solar eclipse and participated in a variety of engaging activities centered around this celestial event.

As April came to a close, students and staff enjoyed a welldeserved break, taking the opportunity to relax, have fun, and rejuvenate. We are ready to take on the rest of the school year!

D.L. Beckwith Middle School Term 3 High Honor Roll

Grade 5: Niko Andrade, Mason Angelini, Ethan Auricchio, Alexander Bacon, Matthew Baker, Ava Benevides, Madeleine Bentley, Julie Bergeron, Alyssa Bernardo, Ethan Botelho, Addison Bradley, Aubrey Brady, Audrey Brown, John Cameron, Trenton Carrasquillo, Nora Carroll, Anthony Chianese, Charles Connery, Benjamin Cordeiro, Matthew Cunha, Hope DaPonte, Liam Enes, Zayden Estes, Adriana Farias, Xavier Feliciano, Avery Ferreira, Camden Fontaine, Levi Garcia, Milla Greene, Liam Jeffrey, Megan Kazanjian, David Kent, Ava Landry, Stella Levesque, Connor Levinson, Lila Magee, Michael Martins, Michaela Morrison, Madilyn Mourao, Selene

The Harlem Wizards Event

Ollivierre, Brooke Pento, Maddix Ramos, Caizzi Read, Mackenzie Reeves, Andrew Roth, Owen Ruhle, Luca Salcone, Eleanor Santiago, Hunter Sienko, Julian Soares, Nicholas Thibeault, Rylie Vickey, Mackenzie Warren, Parker Webster, Richard Wood

Grade 6: Khloe Amaral, Clara Arrigo, Jason Bettencourt, Hallie Coyne, Deven Dagnese, Patrick D’Aiello, Manuel Daza-Portillo, Kellen Dietrich, Alaina DiPalma, Juliana Franco, Macy Frissell, Zoya Holowka, Mackenna Johnson, Lyla Mae Kinniburgh, Audrey Kreizinger, Amelia McWain, Chase Moniz, Neayeika Neth, Jordan Nguyenle, Emma Oliver, Kendric Pham, Thomas Pierce, Julia Pimento, Natalia Regan, Jordan Steinkamp, Veda Tavares, Amelia Trexler, Amaya Turner

Grade 7: Lillian Albernaz, Markos Andrade, Gabrielle Assi, Nathan Auricchio, Addison Bairos, Isabelle Bettencourt, Nayalie Carpenter, Carli Castro, Adam Cavanaugh, Brianna Chartier, Benjamin Chartier, Desmond Clark, Madison Crosby, Alyssa Daniels, Skyla DuVally, Vanessa Escobar, Tenley Ferreira, Elyana Fonseca, Isabella Furtado, Haley Gomes, Felix Gore, Alicia Gouveia, Cassidy Hasenfratz, Brooke Henriques, Leah Hyder, Cara Iafrate, Logan Jodat, Reece Kotch, Quinn Kotch, Keegan Lay, Lyla Lewandoski, Violet Lyons, Mia Megan, Adriana Menezes, Abbie Oldmixon, Emma Owen, Connor Ruhle, Alexander Warren

Grade 8: Domenic Andreozzi, Bonnie Arrigo, Aiden Beagan, Ella Danforth, Manuel Daza-Portillo, Jillian Del Fino, Alexis Flood, Zoe Fortin, James Holt, Moiz Ishfaq, Claire Kiselica, Cole LeBlanc, Logan Lindberg, Jameson Murphy, Mayukha Reddy, Anne Reed, Isabella Rego, Alexandria Thompson, Annalie Zink

Term 3 Honor Roll

Grade 5: Soren Alegria, Aubree Bairos, Thomas Baker, Raina Benson, William Botelho, Joseph Brainsky, Bailey Caban, Nias Carpenter, Matthew Carreiro, Allison Carson, Nathan Cordeiro, Devin Cravero, Carter DeSilva, Julianna Dixon, Nathan Faria, Noah Fischman, Quinntin Fleming, Bruce Furtado, Lucas Guite, Nathan Hillier, Lucas Lesniak, Olivia Lewandoski, Farrah Lopes, Yariel Lopez, Paisley Malaguti, Mateo Marcucci, Aubrey Medeiros, Dean Menezes, Malia Nepini, Jacob Nixon, Connor O’Neill, Christian Petersen, Audrey Peterson, Connor Pires, Isabella Porciello, Reyah Powers, Kaelyn Read, Hailey Resendes, Blake Rodrigues, John Sarrazin, Calvin Silva, Steven Talbot, Aubree Tansey, Stella Teodoro, Christina Thomas

Grade 6: Noah Beauregard, Alexander Benoit, Benjamin Bourgoin, Dodge Caban, Jocelyn Cameron, Julia Cameron, Damin Carey, Amelia Choquette, James Comins, Dylan Cordeiro,, Alicia Correia, Luke DeMoura, Kassidy Duarte, Kaylee DuVally, Molly Earle, Kamilia Garcia, Wes Gill, Mason Gouveia, Korey Grant, Hayleigh Guthrie, Leland Hess, Meriwether Holt, Maximus Jarvis, Madison Johnson, Jameson Leonard, Kassin Lewis, Jade Lingard, Conor Lynch, Kyra McCollum, Dane Medeiros, Jason Mendoza, Andrew Oldmixon, Lila Owen, Abagail Polychronis, Alexander Quin, Connor Quinn, Mitchell Ramos, Eve Ricci, Zachary Robbio, Maverick Robson, Nicholas Ryder, Ella Sampson, Maeve Santos, Ashton Sarrazin, Finn Scamacca, Keegan Sellers, Morgan Soares, Mia Souza, Robert Thompson, Kearsten Ware, Cassidy Warner, Aubrey Young, Juliana Yuastella

Grade 7: Elsie Angel-Hayes, Zackary Bacon, Stephen Bentley, Abigail Blenkush, Hayden Bonilla, Hailey Boulay, Caitlyn Cabral, Evan Cardoso, Justin Cartwright, Shane DaPonte, Carmela DaRosa Donato, Kyle DeDucca, Louis Diamond, Jax Fogel, Quinn Garcia, Tylan Hone, Brynn Hoskins, Connor Hoyle, Simra Ishfaq, James Johnson, Lanie Kazanjian, Liam Kelley, Leah Levesque, Eric Lin,

continued on next page...

Andrew Mandeville, Brooke Martel, Nathan Mayer, Samantha Medeiros, Addison Mendes, Cole Nystrom, Mason Pattie, Meya Perry, Cali Petracca, Avery Quinones, Jada Raphino, Noah Rhines, Bradley Russell, Ethan Salisbury, Caleb Sawant, Jenna Sidok, Alexandra Sousa, Avery Taylor, Ryan White, James Whittle

Grade 8: Thomas Azevedo, Jonathan Bennett, Abram Bonin, Courtney Botelho, Bryce Bouchard, Jacob Bourgoin, Caleb Bronsdon, Nicholas Brown, Makinley Carcieri, Matthew Comstock, Campbell Cordeiro, Olivia Couto, Drew Dagnese, Bailey D’Alessio, Patrick Duczkowski, Landon Ferreira, Abigail Fortin, Rebecca George, Emily Harris, Jayden Hasenfratz, Ryder Hays, Ava Heron, Derek Howland, Julian Johnson, Louis Kent, Lincoln Levisee, Ava Lopes, Reid Maloof, Robert Monteforte, Brendyn Murphy, Sadie Noviello, Ciara Peavey, Zahra Petrone, Taylor Pierce, Elijah Polychronis, Whitney Pooler, Emma Rapp, Marissa Rioux, Lucas Rodrigues, Khloe Rodriques, Annabel Semidoro, Aiden Shaw, Zachary Sidok, Logan Silva, Logan Slater, Mackenzie Spencer, Lillian Swan, Miles Trexler, Mariessa Ware, Aiden Ware, Lilyan Zink

Tri-County Second Trimester Honor Roll

Below is a full listing of the students from Seekonk by grade who made the High or Regular Honor Roll for the second trimester of the 2023-24 academic year. For students to make the High Honor Roll they must have A’s in each of their academic offerings. Students qualifying for the regular Honor Roll must have A’s and B’s in all of their academic subjects.

Grade 9 High Honors: Jocelyn Walberg

Grade 9 Honors: Sierra Graca, Michael Jeffrey, Oliver Marcotte, Mark McKay

Grade 10 High Honors: Cian Shaw

Grade 10 Honors: Riley Bodick, Sarah Escola, Alena King, Anthony Porraro, Alexis Rego, Adison Sobczak

Grade 11 High Honors: Grace Gordon, Jack Pardi, Seth Varhol

Grade 11 Honors: William Godfrey, Alexander Gries, Patrick Canavan, Thomas; Shaughnessy, Charlie Rouhana

Grade 12 High Honors: Peyton Griffin

Grade 12 Honors: Troy Casto, Caleb Helgerson, Jarrad Klang, Elizabeth Lafleur, Samuel Marcotte

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

10 Game-Changing Strategies For Finding The Right Summer Camp

(BPT) - With the days growing longer and warmer, securing a suitable camp for your child can feel like an impossible task. However, finding the perfect camp experience for your kid this summer doesn’t have to be daunting with these top 10 considerations.

1. Your child’s interests

As parents, you know your child best and can determine which camp experience makes the most sense. But remember to include

your child in the process. Decisions about camp are family choices and should be a joint venture; they can help support a more successful camp experience.

2. Accredited camps

Always look for a day or overnight camp that is accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA). When a camp is accredited, it means they’ve gone through a thorough, voluntary process that supports the health and safety of all campers and staff. ACA collaborates with experts from national youthserving organizations to guide the practices and policies at your child’s camp, reflecting the most up-to-date, research-based standards in camp operation.

3. Your child’s needs

Are you looking for a program that supports your child’s personality and learning style? Does your camper have certain medical requirements, mental health considerations or dietary restrictions? Understanding the strengths in a camp’s focus or programming may help you make your choice. It’s also important to understand that most camps prohibit kids’ access to technology or the internet while at camp. Have an honest and open conversation with your child about this prior to registering.

4. Character development

Many camps are run with an intrinsic focus on character-building skills and traits that help kids grow up to be successful adults. Look for camps talking about this in their mission, staff training and program design. ACA’s recent National Impact Study found that camp experiences support social connectivity, creating communities where young people feel safe, heard and like they belong.

5. Staff training

When researching a camp, ask questions! What kind of training do counselors receive? What types of screening do they require? What is the counselor-to-camper ratio? What are the ages of staff members? The same qualities of trustworthiness and dependability sought by any employer are valued skills and experiences in camp staff.

6. Camp philosophy, policies and procedures

Each camp has its own method of constructing programs based on its philosophy. Does it complement your own parenting philosophy? Ask camp directors about their communication policies. How do they handle homesickness and other adjustment issues? How are behavior and disciplinary problems handled? What is the camp’s dress code?

AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY

ENGINEERING DESIGN + DRAFTING

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

MARKETING

MEDIA STUDIES (TV PRODUCTION)

ART

ROBOTICS

7. Length and location

Location can be a major factor in choosing a camp. Do you want to attend a camp close to home or in another state? Similarly, think about the length of the camp session. Do you want a short session for your child, such as a few days or a week, or something longer, such as two weeks or a month?

8. Camp provisions

Are there certain amenities or features you’re looking for? Maybe your child is interested in waterfront activities or a ropes course, or maybe you’re searching for a more specialized camp such as a sport- or STEM-specific program. Consider activities, food, lodging and other offerings to decide the right fit for your child.

9. Recommendations

Talk to friends, neighbors, relatives or other parents; often, word of mouth and a recommendation from someone you trust is the best endorsement. Similarly, if your child is a first-time camper, consider planning for summer camp with other parents. Having a friend with them can help children adjust, quiet nerves and build confidence away from home.

10. Certified camp finder tools

If you’re still not sure where to begin, ACA’s Find-a-Camp tool is a free resource with the most extensive directory of summer and year-round camp programs. Filter your search by your exact wants and needs. You’ll also find resources for financial aid, camp scholarships and more.

Finding the right summer camp for your child doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Take the time to explore these game-changing strategies to find the perfect summer camp match for your child.

Packing Tips for Day Summer Camp

Day summer camps offer a plethora of activities and opportunities for fun and learning, all while allowing campers to return home each evening. While the packing list for day camp may be shorter than that of overnight camps, it's still essential to ensure you have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here are some essential tips for packing for day summer camp. Keep it Simple

and Essential

Since you'll be returning home each day, it's crucial to keep your packing light and focused on the essentials. Start by checking the camp's packing list or guidelines to see if they have any specific requirements or recommendations. Focus on items that will enhance your day camp experience and help you participate fully in all activities.

Clothing for Comfort and Activity

Choose clothing that is comfortable, weather-appropriate, and suitable for a range of activities. T-shirts, shorts, and sneakers are often ideal for day camp adventures. Consider packing a light jacket or sweatshirt for cooler mornings or evenings. Don't forget to bring a change of clothes and a swimsuit if water activities are part of the camp's itinerary.

Sun Protection and Hydration

Protect yourself from the sun's rays by packing essential sun protection items. Bring sunscreen with a high SPF, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to shield your eyes. Stay hydrated throughout the day by bringing a refillable water bottle and drinking plenty of fluids, especially during outdoor activities.

Snacks and Lunch

Check with the camp to see if snacks and lunch are provided or if you need to bring your own. If you're responsible for your meals, pack nutritious snacks and a well-balanced lunch that will keep you energized throughout the day. Opt for portable and easy-to-eat options like sandwiches, fruit, granola bars, and trail mix.

Extras for Comfort and Convenience

Consider bringing a small backpack or tote bag to carry your belongings and keep them organized throughout the day. Pack essentials like a towel, hand sanitizer, insect repellent, and any necessary medications. If the camp allows, bring along a camera or smartphone to capture memories of your day camp adventures.

Packing for day summer camp is all about keeping it simple, focusing on essentials, and preparing for a day filled with fun and

excitement. By following these packing tips and staying organized, you'll be ready to make the most of your day camp experience and create lasting memories with friends and peers. Have a fantastic time exploring, learning, and enjoying all that day camp has to offer!

Tips to Keep Your Child Energized All Day

Packing snacks and lunch for day camp is essential for keeping your energy levels up and staying fueled for all the activities ahead. Here's a guide to help you pack nutritious and satisfying snacks and meals for a day of fun at camp.

Plan Ahead: Take some time to plan your snacks and lunch for the day. Consider foods that are portable, easy to eat, and will provide sustained energy.

Nutritious Snack Options: Choose snacks that are both tasty and nutritious to keep you going throughout the day. Some great options include:

• Fresh fruits like apples, bananas, grapes, or berries.

• Cut-up vegetables such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers with hummus or ranch dip.

• Trail mix with a mix of nuts, dried fruits, and seeds.

• Yogurt cups or pouches for a quick and protein-packed snack.

• Granola bars or energy bars made with whole grains and nuts.

• Cheese sticks or slices paired with whole-grain crackers.

• Popcorn or whole-grain pretzels for a crunchy snack.

Balanced Lunch Ideas: When packing your lunch, aim for a balanced meal that includes protein, carbohydrates, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Here are some lunch ideas:

• Sandwiches or wraps filled with lean protein like turkey, chicken, or tofu, along with lettuce, tomato, and cheese.

• Pasta salad with whole-grain pasta, mixed vegetables, and a protein source like grilled chicken or chickpeas.

• Quinoa or rice bowls topped with beans, grilled vegetables, avocado, and salsa.

• Salad with mixed greens, assorted veggies, grilled shrimp or tofu, and a vinaigrette dressing on the side.

• Bento box-style lunch with a variety of small portions, such as deli meat rollups, cheese cubes, crackers, fruit slices, and baby carrots.

Packaging and Storage: Use insulated lunch bags or containers with ice packs to keep perishable items fresh and safe to eat. Separate snacks and lunch items into individual containers or resealable bags for easy access throughout the day.

By planning ahead and packing a variety of nutritious snacks and balanced meals, you'll be prepared to tackle a day of adventure and fun at day camp while staying energized and satisfied.

at the Herreshoff Marine Museum

Youth Summer Camp

Beginner, Intermediate & Advanced Classes for Children or Adults

Sail on Herreshoff 12½

Private Lessons & Rentals

237 Winthrop Street, Rehoboth Junction of Routes 44 and

E. Deva (Vincelette) Mills

Rehoboth – E. Deva (Vincelette) Mills, 87, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, passed away peacefully at her home, with her family by her side on Sunday, April 14, 2024. She was the beloved wife of Leonard Mills, Sr., they received the Sacrament of Marriage sixty-seven years ago in Our Lady of Consolation Church in Pawtucket. Born in Pawtucket, she was a daughter of the late Alphonse T., Sr. and Eva B. (Ethier) Vincelette. Deva and Leonard made their home in Rehoboth since the early 1960’s.

Together Deva and her husband were the co-founders of American Form Corp. Over the years, they worked hard to grow the family business from its humble beginnings out of their family kitchen and a cigar box to what it has become today. They were also proud to pass

on the reigns to their family to ensure its success well into the future.

While raising her family and working alongside her husband, Deva attended college and went on to work for the federal government at the United States Postal Service. She retired from the USPS after twenty years of service. Prior to her work with the postal service, Deva worked as a teacher at CO-OP in North Dighton, educating people with intellectual and developmental disabilities preparing them to work in manufacturing and other fields.

As a pastime, Deva had a passion for all things equestrian and enjoyed caring for her horses, which were stabled at her home in Rehoboth. Deva and her family enjoyed camping at Arcadia Park in Hope Valley, Rhode Island and spending time at her family’s homes in both the White Mountains of New Hampshire and the Cayman Islands, where she and Leonard spent the entirety of their winters.

Deva will be lovingly remembered by all whose lives she has touched over the past eighty-seven years.

Besides her loving husband, Deva leaves a son, Leonard “Lenny” Mills, Jr. and his companion, Christine McKearney, of Rehoboth; two daughters, Gail D. O’Connor and her husband, Thomas, Sr., of Middletown, RI, and Melissa Mello and her husband, Wayne, of Rehoboth; ten grandchildren, Leonard Mills, III, Christopher J. Mills, Thomas J. O’Connor, Jr., Jeremiah C. O’Connor, Benjamin T. O’Connor and Zachariah T. O’Connor, Chad A. Mello, Shane L. Mello, Kyle W. Mello and Julia F. Mello; two great-grandchildren, Coralie M. O’Connor and Luke T. O’Connor, and many nieces and nephews. She was the mother of the late Jeffrey D. Mills and the sister of the late Marcella and Fred Guilmette, Alphonse, Jr., and Patricia Vincelette and Lorraine and Douglas Gobielle.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Saturday, April 20th at the church where Deva received all her sacraments and attended the parochial school, Our Lady of Consolation Church in Pawtucket, and she was interred with late son, Jeffrey, at the Rehoboth Village Cemetery. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to the WILLIAM W. TRIPP Funeral Home, 1008 Newport Ave., Pawtucket. Memorial gifts to the American Parkinson’s Association, P.O. Box 61420, Staten Island, NY 10306 would be appreciated. Online condolences may be offered at: TrippFuneralHome.com

E. Deva Mills

Dennis A. Taylor

Dennis A. Taylor

Dennis A. Taylor, 85, of Seekonk, passed away on Tuesday, April 2, 2024. He was the husband of Nancy E. (Stanis) Taylor to whom he was married for 45 years. Born in Providence, he was the son of the late Frank and Hazel (Hill) Taylor. Mr. Taylor was a Press Room Supervisor for Quebecor World before retiring. He was an avid Patriots, Bruins and Red Sox fan. He had a passion for British automobiles. He enjoyed the outdoors, gardening, maintaining his lawn and spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

Besides his wife he leaves two sons, Mark Taylor and his wife Lisa of Uxbridge, MA and Timothy Taylor of Seekonk, three grandchildren, Cal, Weston and Elena Taylor, one nephew, Rob Stewart, one niece, Laurie Stewart and one great nephew, Brandon Stewart. His funeral and visitation will be held on Saturday, April 6, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM in the PERRY-MCSTAY FUNERAL HOME, 2555 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence with a service to follow at 11:00. Burial will be held in Seekonk Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations in Dennis’s memory, donations can be made to Saint Jude Childrens Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

George R. Ingham

George R. Ingham, 85, of Rehoboth, died peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on April 26, 2024. He was the loving husband of Theresa A. (Juspchyk) Ingham for 63 years. Born in Dighton, he was the son of the late William Ingham and Bertha (Carpenter) Ingham.

George was a 31-year employee of the Providence Journal, working as Maintenance Foreman. Upon retirement, he and his wife enjoyed being snowbirds in Margate, FL.

He proudly served in the U.S. Navy, the U.S. Army Reserves, and was a

member of the American Legion Post 302 in Rehoboth. He was a member of the Rehoboth Congregational Church, the Attleboro Elks Lodge #1014, and member of the Tamarac Moose Lodge in Florida.

George was a talented handyman, enjoyed working in his yard, fishing, and boating. His greatest joy was being with family and spending time at their summer home in Jamestown.

In addition to his wife, he leaves his loving children, Todd C. Ingham of Somerset, MA and Tracy L. Buonaiuto & her husband Kenneth of Scituate, RI. Cherished grandfather of Todd C. Ingham, Jr. & his wife Danielle of Attleboro, Katelyn T. Buonaiuto of Warwick, Ryan K. Buonaiuto & his wife McKenzie of Fountain, CO, and one greatgrandchild on the way. He was the brother of the late Wilma Smiley and Barbara McLean.

Friends may call Friday, May 3, 2024 from 10:30 to 11:30 A.M. with a service to follow in the Home of J.H. WILLIAMS & CO., 210 Taunton Avenue, Route 44, East Providence, RI. Burial with Military Honors will follow in Rehoboth Village Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, gifts in his memory to the Wounded Warrior Project support.woundedwarriorproject.org or to the American Legion Post 302, 84 Bay State Rd., Rehoboth, MA 02769 will be appreciated.

For online messages of condolence, kindly visit www.jhwilliamsfuneralhome.com

George R. Ingham

Gloria DeAngelis

Gloria DeAngelis to her precious Shih Tzu, Annabelle.

Gloria Irene (Conti) DeAngelis passed away on March 19, 2024, surrounded by her family, at the venerable age of 92. Born on August 7, 1931, in Providence, RI, the daughter of the late Anthony and Edna (Thatch) Conti. Gloria embodied the true spirit of kindness and joy throughout her life. She was the cherished wife of the late Harry Peter DeAngelis and a devoted mother to her beloved children, Debra and Steven DeAngelis. She leaves her niece Ann Meneghini and nephew Ernest Spaziano, Jr., and was also the loving guardian

Gloria’s professional life was marked by over three decades of dedicated service as a Supervisory Teacher’s Aide at the Mildred H. Aitken School in Seekonk. Her well-being of children was a testament to her loving nature.

Her zest for life was evident in her passion for travel, with summers spent soaking in the beauty of Cape Cod, winters basking in the Florida sun, and her eagerly anticipated annual birthday trips to Maine. These journeys brought her immense joy and a treasure trove of memories.

Music and dance were the rhythms of Gloria’s soul. She reveled in attending concerts and musicals, embracing the melodies that brought so much pleasure to her life. Her creative spirit found its expression in the arts and crafts she adored, with painting being a particular source of pride and satisfaction.

Gloria’s essence can be captured in the words loving, kind, and thoughtful. She approached every moment with a generous heart and an open mind, always ready to offer support or share a kind word. Her presence was a comfort to those around her, and her influence will continue to be felt by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

As we bid farewell to Gloria, we celebrate a life rich in love and kindness. Her legacy is one of compassion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to the joy and well-being of her family and community. Gloria Irene (Conti) DeAngelis will be deeply missed, yet her spirit will forever remain a guiding light in the lives of those she touched.

Her funeral was held on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 at 8:30am from the REBELLO FUNERAL HOME, 901 Broadway, East Providence, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00am in Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, 984 Taunton Avenue, Seekonk, MA. Burial followed at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 550 Wampanoag Trail, East Providence.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be sent to the Vintage Pet Rescue, P.O. Box 194, Foster, RI, 02825.

Robert C. Archer

Robert C. Archer, age 91, of Rehoboth, passed away at home on Sunday, April 14, 2024. He was the husband of the late Barbara Ann (Szydlowski) Archer.

Born in Providence, the son of the late Alfred V. and Caroline E. (Schweikart) Archer, Robert graduated from Cranston High School, Class of 1950. A proud veteran of the United States Navy, Robert served his country during the Korean War. He went on to run a television station at the former Southeastern Massachusetts University (now UMass Dartmouth) for 31 years and worked for Channel 12 as a Production Manager for 16 years.

Robert enjoyed the outdoors, especially camping, and was a member of American Legion Post 302 in Rehoboth.

He is survived by six children, Deborah Peck and her husband Gregory of Rehoboth, Susan Shaw and her husband Greg of Maine, Linda Archer of Maine, Jeffrey Archer and his wife Donna of Brockton, Cynthia Simmons of Rehoboth, and Kimberly Archer of Dighton; seven grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, as well as several nieces and nephews. Robert was the brother of the late Russell Archer.

A Graveside Service with Military Honors will be held on Monday, April 22, 2024 at 10:00 AM in Rehoboth Village Cemetery, 190 Bay State Rd., Rehoboth. Relatives and friends are invited. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Robert’s honor may be made to the Rehoboth Food Pantry, 51 Winthrop St., Unit 2, Rehoboth, MA 02769 or to the American Legion Post 302, 84 Bay State Rd., Rehoboth, MA 02769. For online tributes, please visit: www.waring-sullivan.com

Christopher A. Manley

Christopher Manley

Christopher A. Manley, 70, of Rehoboth, died at home after a valiant battle with pancreatic cancer on April 25, 2024. He was the partner of Mary Azulay, Grandpa of Kevin Foster, Jr., Christa Callery, & Hallie Whalen. He is survived by his brother, Stephen Manley of Lufkin, TX, and a sister, Elizabeth Brown of Baker, FL. He was the brother of the late Douglas E. Manley.

Born in Providence, he was a son of the late William Manley, Jr. and Cynthia A. (Douglass) Manley.

Chris was a truck driver for EV Oil, a farmer, landscaper, and flower shop owner. He was a saxophonist for 60 years as well as a singer, poet, story writer, composer, puzzle creator, and stone mason.

He graduated first in class at Seekonk High School, Class of 1972. He was an enthusiast of all stone from beach pebbles to expensive crystal specimens.

Chris designed and built his own home in Rehoboth. He also ran a musical clambake for hundreds of people for 10 years.

Calling hours were April 29th from the hours of 4:00 to 7:00 P.M. in the Home of J.H. WILLIAMS & CO., 210 Taunton Avenue,

His Funeral was held Tuesday, April 30, 2024 at 10:45 A.M. from the funeral home with a procession to Mount Hope Cemetery, Swansea MA with a graveside service at 11:30 A.M. For online messages of condolence, kindly visit www.jhwilliamsfuneralhome.com

Kenneth J. Reddington

Kenneth J. Reddington

Kenneth J. Reddington, 90, of Attleboro, MA and formerly of Seekonk, passed away peacefully with his family by his side Sunday, April 21, 2024. He was the beloved husband of the late Beverly Ann (Holleran) Reddington. Born in Pawtucket, RI, he was the son of the late James and Alice (English) Reddington. Ken was an army veteran of the Korean War Era. He had worked for New England Telephone for many years before retiring.

He is survived by his children, John Reddington, Joseph Reddington, Kimberly Charron, Thomas Reddington, and James Reddington; his twelve grandchildren, and six great grandchildren. He also leaves his sisters, Barbara Ferland, Eileen Garne, Ruth Foley, and Monica Lanoue. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to a Mass of Christian Burial Thursday, April 25th at 11 AM in Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Church, Coyle Drive, Seekonk. Burial with military honors will follow in Seekonk Cemetery. Visiting hours will be held Thursday from 9- 10:15 AM, prior to the Mass in the Manning-Heffern-O’Neill Funeral Home, 220 Cottage Street, Pawtucket. For complete obituary, please visit www.oneillfuneralhomes.com

Robert C. Archer

Lars Lambrecht

Transitioning Into Retirement

Written by Lars Lambrecht, CFP, CLU, BFA, AMPA, CDFA, CLTC, CSLP, owner of Island Time Financial Services, Inc.

Transitioning into retirement can be exciting and daunting. Many retirees work with a professional financial advisor to navigate the multiple life changes.

Income. You will need to reinvent your income in retirement. You will most likely receive Social Security and/or pension income. You may want to continue working part time. Most retirees need additional income to maintain their desired lifestyle. Hopefully, you have been able to accumulate retirement investments that can be used to create income. It is a different mindset and strategy to position your portfolio to provide an income versus accumulation. There is a general rule of thumb that you can draw 4% from your portfolio and have it stay intact (e.g. a $1,000,000 portfolio could produce $40,000 of income per year). Generally speaking, expenses increase in the initial years of retirement (for travel, as an example), then reduce as we age, and again increase later in life for additional health care expenses.

Investments. As people near retirement, it is common to be more concerned about protecting your portfolio than seeing it grow. If so, your portfolio risk should be adjusted to accommodate this. I often layer risk through various “buckets.” I recommend leaving one-year of anticipated expenses in guaranteed vehicles (savings, CDs, treasuries). The balance of your portfolio might be divided into a conservative bucket, moderate-risk bucket, and growth bucket. You want to position your portfolio so that you don’t have to sell more aggressive investments when there is a market downturn. Drawing from the conservative bucket allows the more aggressive ones to continue to grow without disrupting your retirement income. Most people roll their retirement plan over to their IRA when they retire. IRAs provide significantly more investment options and flexibility, and can be professionally managed. Another option to

potentially consider is an annuity for a portion of your portfolio. There are several types of annuities, with their own pros and cons. The main benefit of most annuities is that they can provide guaranteed income for your life.

Health Care. Most retirees need to transition from health insurance provided by their employer. If you are 65 years old, Medicare is typically the main source of health insurance. There are several components and options within Medicare and supplemental insurance plans. I recommend speaking with an insurance agent that specializes in Medicare. If you are younger than 65, you will need to obtain private health insurance, which can be costly. Your Medicare and health insurance premiums are impacted by your taxable income. You should also consider long-term care expenses and insurance as part of your retirement planning.

Taxes. There are some unique opportunities with tax planning once you are retired, and I find tax planning becomes more complex for many clients. If you live in Massachusetts and are 65+ years old, you may be eligible for the Senior Circuit Breaker credit. There is a formula based on your income and how much you pay for either real estate taxes or rent that determines how much of a tax credit you receive. You can influence your overall taxes based upon how you draw from your investments. For example, it’s possible that money in non-retirement brokerage accounts can be drawn down with less taxes than your 401(k) or IRA. You may have money in Roth IRAs that provide tax-free income. You do need to be careful about how various income options can impact other parts of your taxes such as the Circuit Breaker Credit and health insurance subsidies if you are under the age of 65. Generally speaking, I prefer drawing down non-retirement assets first.

My article next month will be going deeper on retirement income and tax strategies.

Lars Lambrecht, Rehoboth resident and Certified Financial Planner, is available to answer questions or meet for a consultation. 617-947-6428

CLASSIFIEDS

PERSONALS

Seeking Companion: Romantic man looking for a woman between 50-60 who likes movies, dancing or dining out. Call Kevin at 401-259-9393.

YARD SALE

Yard Sale: May 4th, 8am-2pm, 632 Arcade Ave., Seekonk MA.

Narragansett Terrace Yard Sale: Sat. May 18th, 2024, from 8 AM to 1 PM (rain date Sun May 19, 2024). Multiple households offering furniture, clothing, tools, and miscellaneous items.

Garage sale: 1 Meadowcrest Drive, Riverside, RI 02915 Sun. May 26th 9AM - 3PM. Baby boy items. Coffee table books. Lawn & garden tools. Assorted tools.

Two Family Yard Sale. June 14th, 103PM & June 15th, 9-2PM, 94 Lakeside St. Riverside. Please no early birds. Lots of miscellaneous stuff to display.

GARAGE SALE: Seekonk. LARGE COLLECTION OF ALL SORTS OF MAN STUFF. By appointment only. Call and leave a callback telephone number at Woodcraft Productions (401) 232-2372 and I will return your call on the same day.

FOR SALE

Fishing Equipment: Cannon mini Downrigger with weights ($100), Hummingbird fish finder 165C, all new – never used ($100). Fishing lures – all new trout and bass freshwater in 14” x 9” case ($95). Will sell separately. Call 774-565-0288, Rehoboth.

SNOWBLOWER -End of Season Sale! Troybuilt 26 in 243cc motor. Recently tuned up (oil, fuel, greased gear) certified and copy of tune up info. (brand new listed for $1665. Home depot) 800. obo 401-573-4629.

HONDA GENERATOR 6500 watts, new battery, recently tuned up and runs great. new 3500., asking 1200. OBO ( be ready for storm outage, potential for running whole house) 401-573-4629.

Columbia Lawn Tractor CLT 42H, recently serviced Air filter,fuel filter, oil, oil filter - runs good, have lawn maintenance don't need. $500. OBO 401-573-4629.

PETS

Sweet Dog Seeks Companion: Dave Fine, formerly of Fine Tree Farms in Rehoboth, just recently found out he has a terminal illness and has been given 6 months to live. His major concern is his dog, Babs. She’s 9 years old and is lovely. Looking for a home for her, hopefully with someone alone

needing companionship. On the farm, she was able to run free and was in her glory. Dave can be contacted at 508-838-7345 if you or anyone you know maybe interested. May God bless.

Purebred Portuguese Podengo pups 10 months old. Smooth coat, medium. No known genetic medical problems. Wormed. Raised on farm and love life. $300.00 cash. 508-222-5909 Cathy

EVENTS

Seekonk Flea Market at Seekonk Speedway is opening March 24th, 2024, 7am-1pm every Sunday until December 3rd. Vendors & Patrons welcome and wanted! For more information, call Linda at 401263-5737.

FARMS

HAWKSWOOD FARM: Looking for Barn Help; Riding lessons- celebrating 45 years, 1st lesson ½ price; Boarding-reasonable prices; Large grass turnouts; ponies for parties. Call Hawkswood Farm at 508-336-6114.

HELP WANTED

Contractor Sales Representative Wanted: The Fireplace Showcase in Seekonk is hiring a Contractor Sales Representative to develop and maintain existing professional contractor/builder relationships, proactively provide profitable sales growth, increase sales to current and new accounts. Previous hearth experience is not required, however, some construction/trades experience is mandatory. Benefits package. Contact for job description and submit resume to Kleddy44@gmail.com

Hiring! Choate Tree Service is hiring for multiple positions. We have both part-time and seasonal Groundman positions available. We also have one position available for an experienced Ground Foreman. Applicants must be 18+. For more details and to apply, go to www.choatetree.com/employment.

Helper in my home: Mature, dependable. Flexible hours, background check required. Taxed. Barrington. Call 401-2890127.

Hair Stylist Wanted: Cole Michael Salon in East Providence on busy main road is looking for a experienced stylist to rent a station. Very affordable weekly or monthly rent. Call 401-383-1905.

Part-time teller 15-20 hours & Full time position with accounting experience, Community & Teachers Federal Credit Union. For more info call 401-438-7788, ask for Joan or Ken.

HALL RENTAL

BOOK YOUR SPECIAL OCCASION PARTY NOW! Riverside Sportsman Assoc. Mohawk Drive off Wampanoag Trail. For all occasions: Birthday, Family Reunions, Club/ Organization Meetings. Cash Bar. Monthly Steak Fries and other events. Call the club at 401-433-0209, leave a message.

WANTED

Wanted: I buy Old cars, Motorcycle, Bicycles, Scooter and other wheeled vehicle and parts. One piece or a collection. Thank you, Joe in Rehoboth 508-558-5129.

HOME & GARDEN

House Plants & Succulents for sale: Good variety from $1-$10. Call 401-4332922.

SERVICES

General Handyman: Doors, windows, handyman work. R.A. Bradley Co. (est 1983). Registered and insured. Call or text 401-640-0023.

Handyman/Home Repairs/Improvements: GSS Property Solutions LLC. Registered, Bonded, Fully Insured. Servicing Mass & RI. Call or Text 401-688-9749.

Bicycle Sales & Service: Your Bike Shops - SPRING Tune-ups on all brands. 2 locations: in Riverside next to CVS 401433-4491, and in Warren next to the Police Station and the bike path. Call Art or Joe for *NEW* hours and service. 401-245-9755

Housecleaning: Is your home in need of a really good cleaning? Whether you need a 1 time cleaning, or regular cleanings. Years of experience! (We include fridge and oven w/ our cleanings) Call Gil for details 508840-6611.

BIG BLUE REMOVAL SERVICE: Attic, Cellar, Total House. We take everything! Furniture, Brush, Appliances, Yard Waste, Construction Debris, Trash…Demolition of Fences, Sheds, Decks, Pools. Let us do the work. Free Estimates. BEST PRICES. Call Tony 508-226-1295 or 508-889-0824; www. BigBlueJunkRemovals.com.

REALISTIC PAINTING: Serving all of RI, FREE ESTIMATES. Call Russ 401481-2534. Interior/Exterior Home & Light Commercial Painting, Power Washing, Wall Paper Removal, Home & Deck Staining, Registered & Insured (License #37552), www.realisticpaintingpro.com.