April 2026 Seekonk Reporter

Letters to the Editor...

The letters in this section and opinion articles do not reflect the views of the staff of The 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!

Tales From the South.

I can hardly wait to get back home in the spring. I can’t wait to hear all the heavy-duty leaf blowers blowing fresh-cut grass from one end to another. Seems a waste. It could be like playing with a toy and bothering all your neighbors. I would like to share some information I have been reading in the Providence Journal.

Gas powered leaf blowers are a public health nuisance for air and noise pollution that also contribute to climate change. The city of Providence, RI is attempting to help landscapers and residents transition to quieter electric equipment.

Gas powered leaf blowers can reach dangerously high noise levels, often surpassing thresholds set by the World Health Organization. Loud exposure can have adverse effects, such as hearing loss and hypertension.

My wife and I are considering moving out of this neighborhood because of the noise nuisance.

It is a shame that neighbors cannot get together to express their feelings.

Bob Frechette

Owed to the IRS

It’s April, I can’t take the tension Crunching numbers to file an extension

I can’t make a dent

Like the top one percent

It’s taxing to not have a pension!

~Marsha

Hood

Light Pollution

Living in a rural town we are lucky to still be able to see the stars at night unlike people in nearby cities. However, as more people install bright unshielded lights, we slowly lose that privilege due to light pollution. Also, artificial light at night can affect native animals’ sleeping patterns. With the Rehoboth land trust hosting a “Dark Skies” event on April twelfth, now is the perfect time to think about how we light our homes. This doesn’t mean we have to live in the dark, we can use downward facing outdoor lights and motion sensors to make sure future generations can still see the stars at night.

Kassin

Lewis

Puddle Time

Do your memories Bring sunshine? Do your memories Bring rain? We turn

Our clocks back. They all tick just the same. Puddles fill. Then dry up. Or it’s the other way. We all step Toward tomorrow, With a back foot

In yesterday

Don Gardner

Rehoboth Town News

From the Clerk's Office

Hello All ~ The temperature is warming; flowers blooming; birds singing and the SNOW has melted ~ Happy Spring! March has certainly been crazy busy for the Town Clerk’s Office. During the month of March, we processed almost 6,000 census forms and processed almost 1,500 dog licenses, held a joint Rabies Clinic with the Town of Seekonk and processed our Annual Town Election vote-by-mail/absentee ballots along with certifying numerous birth/ marriage/death records.

NEW ENGLAND TAX SERVICE

HOLT

As you know, in March we also are preparing for the upcoming April 7th Annual Town Election, working on the Town Clerk’s portion of the 2025 Annual Report and completing the Town Clerk’s fiscal year 2027 budgets.

Annual Town Election

The Annual Town Election for the Town of Rehoboth will be held on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, with the polls open from 7 AM to 8 PM – Polling Location for all four precincts is Francis Farm Community Center (27 Francis Farm Road) – Heritage Meeting Hall, formerly known as the Museum building. If you would like to review the facility and layout of the polling location, please visit the Town Website at: https://www.rehobothma.gov/home/news/rehoboth-changes-itscentralized-polling-location-francis-farm-community-center-museum

As always, the Town website will have updated polling information when available along with a sample ballot and election results on Tuesday night (April 7, 2026). Printed results will be in the May issue of the Rehoboth Reporter.

The following Positions to be elected on the ballot for 2026 are Moderator (one for 1 year), Board of Selectmen (two positions for 3 years), Assessor (one for 3 years), Constable (one for 3 years) School Committee (two for 3 years), Housing Authority (one for 5 years), Planning Board (one for 5 years), Park Commission (one for 5 years), and Water Commissioner (two for 3 years). We will have one contested race (3-year term D-R School Committee). Please see sample ballot and election details @ https://www.rehobothma.gov/home/news/upcoming-april7-2026-annual-town-election-sample-ballot-vote-mail-deadlinefinal-voter or https://www.rehobothma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif4911/f/ uploads/4-7-2026-rehoboth_ate-sample_ballot-green.pdf

Laura Schwall

By the time you receive the April 2026 issue of the Reporter, the voter registration deadline and Vote-by-Mail application deadline have passed. If you would like to check your voting status, please check: https://www.sec.state.ma.us/VoterRegistrationSearch/ MyVoterRegStatus.aspx If you are unable to make it to the polls on April 7, 2026, you can vote via Absentee Ballot by stopping by the Town Clerk’s Office, completing an Absentee Ballot Application and voting in-person until Noon on Monday, April 6th. PLEASE NOTE: All voters who requested Vote-by-Mail Ballots or Absentee Ballots, they have been mailed, please make sure you vote the ballot, sign the envelope, seal your ballot inside the brown envelope and return to our office. Ballots must be received by 8:00 PM in the Ballot Box at Town Hall – 340 Anawan Street (Route 118) to be counted. Thank you all for voting.

Elected And Appointed Town Officials

A reminder to our elected and appointed town officials; please be aware that no action can be taken by you in your position until you have taken the Oath of Office. Also, should you ever have reason to resign from your position; your signed notice of resignation should be directed to the Town Clerk, as per MGL c41, s109. Thank you!

2026 Dog Licenses Are Now Past Due

2026 Dog licenses were due by April 1, 2026. You may purchase your dog’s license through Rehoboth’s online permitting website at https://www.rehobothma.gov/ – click on Online Permitting under the Citizen Action Center and choose Dog Licenses “Renewal” to start the process. You can also use the direct link to renew your dog’s license @: https:// permiteyes.us/rehoboth/publichome.php.

If you prefer, you may drop off your application and payment in the gray drop box at town hall (340 Anawan Street), or by mail (if paying by mail or drop off, checks should be made payable to the “Town of Rehoboth”). The licensing fees are as follows: Male or female dog $20.00; spayed or neutered dogs $10.00. Whether renewing online, via mail, or in person, dog license applications must be accompanied by a current year rabies certificate (with a vaccination date covering the current licensing year) and proof of spay or neuter [if applying for the $10 licensing fee] unless we already have your documentation on file in the Clerk’s Office. If you are unsure, please give our office a call, and we can provide your dog’s licensing information.

Please renew your dog licenses as soon as possible to avoid late fees ~ thank you. To date we registered 1,472 dogs (124 more than last year) of the 2,000+ dogs to be registered. Remember, in addition to being a legal requirement, registering your dog assures the prevention of rabies, and provides easy identification to return lost dogs to their owners because they are now in our database. Thank you to all 1,472 dog owners for renewing your dog’s licenses so promptly.

Also, another reminder to those residents 70 years of age or older . . . if over 70 years old, as per MGL 140§139(c) and town meeting vote, the Clerk’s Office will waive the $10/$20 license fee; however, you must still apply for the license and show the current year rabies certificate.

Another Successful Rehoboth-Seekonk Rabies Clinic

Thank You All!

Thank You Seekonk and Rehoboth Animal Control Officers for arranging the event, Seekonk Fire Department for the use of your beautiful facility and the Seekonk Town Clerk Staff for including Rehoboth in your Annual Rabies Clinic. Thank you also, Dr. Trusdale

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and staff along with Brian McKearney & Charlotte Castro, Jenn Hose and the Seekonk Save-a-Pet volunteers who processed the rabies licenses. Due to the Saturday Rabies Clinic, Rehoboth was able to register 21 dogs and received $280 in licensing fees ~ thank you all. We look forward to participating in the Rehoboth-Seekonk Joint Rabies Clinic again next year mid-March 2027.

Annual Town Meeting

Rehoboth voters are advised that the date for the Annual Town Meeting has been scheduled by the Board of Selectmen for Tuesday, June 2nd , beginning at 7:00 p.m. The meeting will be held at the Francis Farm Community Complex – Heritage Meeting Hall (formerly known as the Museum Building) – 27 Francis Farm

Road. Town Meeting Warrants, after being approved and sent to the printer by the Board of Selectmen’s Office, should arrive in your mailbox, towards the end of May. Last day to register to vote, in order to participate in the Annual Town Meeting, will be Saturday, May 23, 2026 from 8:00AM-5:00PM in the Town Clerk’s Office, 340 Anawan Street. Prospective voters are reminded that they may also register to vote online at www.RegisterToVoteMA.com, or by calling the Town Clerk’s Office to request a Mail-In voter registration form, or download a form @ http://www.sec.state.ma.us/ele/elepdf/ Voter-reg-mail-in.pdf

Annual Town Census Forms Are Now Past Due

Our Annual Town Census Forms for 2026 were mailed to all 6,022 households in Rehoboth during the first week of January. As of March 30th, we have a total of 849 households that still need to return their forms: Precinct 1 = 224 households in Precinct 2 = 221 households, 188 households in Precinct 3 and 216 households in Precinct 4. If you haven’t returned your 2026 census form, please send it to the Town Clerk’s office as soon as possible. A friendly reminder, failure to return the completed census form may result in voters being placed on an inactive voting list and as per State requirements, after four years of inactivity you will be removed from the voting list.

I would personally like to thank the 5,173 households (unfortunately 268 fewer respondents than last year) that have already returned their census forms or responded to our Registrar’s phone calls. Our Registrars have completed their calls to the residents reminding them to return their census forms. Thank you, Registrars Christina LaFranchi, Helene Vitale and Jennifer Moitoso, along with Kerrie Perkins, Jennifer Hose, and Charlotte Castro for your exceptional work with the 2026 Census process. For those residents who did not like receiving phone calls from our Registrars, please note they are required to call all households who do not return their yearly census forms. We are required, by law, to send out yearly census forms the beginning of January and due completed and signed to our office by January 31st of each year. We do not ask our Rehoboth Board of Registrars to make their phone calls until the beginning of March. If you don’t want to receive a phone call, please return your January 1st census form to our office as soon as possible; definitely prior to the end of February so the State database can be updated. Thank you for your help and consideration. Final census reminder . . . if we do not receive the 849 household census forms by June 1st, our office is also required to “Inactivate” those voters who did not return their 2026 Census forms. If you lost your form, please complete – sign and send your form in now. Blank forms are available on the Town Website: https://www.rehobothma.gov/ sites/g/files/vyhlif4911/f/pages/284126_rehoboth_2026_censusblank-fillable_pdf.pdf

Clerks Day On The Hill

Thursday, April 9, 2026

The Rehoboth Town Clerk and Assistant Town Clerks will be attending the Massachusetts Town Clerks Association “Clerks Day on the Hill” on Thursday, April 9, 2026 to meet with our legislators to discuss critical issues affecting election administration and to advocate for the MTCA’s legislative priorities and solutions as it relates to our current and future Election Laws. We look forward to meeting with Representative Howitt and Senator Dooner to discuss these very important issues. We will update you of our meeting in the May issue of the Rehoboth Reporter.

In closing, every April I am reminded of how fortunate I am to be your Town Clerk. I would like to thank the voters of Rehoboth for the opportunity to serve as your Town Clerk for thirteen wonderful years. I truly love my job and thank all the residents of Rehoboth for making each and every day so very special.

During the month of April, Kerrie, Jenn and I hope you have a wonderful and most enjoyable Easter, Passover, Patriot’s Day, Earth Day, and Arbor Day. I would personally like to thank the Rehoboth Town Events Committee for their wonderful Spring Easter Egg Hunt at Redway Plain, Sunday, March 29th. What a nice event - nicely done, everyone looked like they had a wonderful time and congratulations on the sizable turnout - thank you all for all you do for so many!

Thank you all for taking the time to read my monthly updates and thank you also, Rehoboth Reporter, for faithfully publishing my article every month. We wish you all a most enjoyable April. As another friendly reminder, taxes are due Friday, May 1st, annual Excise Taxes due April 2, 2026, yearly dog licenses were due April 1, 2026, and Annual Census forms were due January 31, 2026. I look forward to chatting with you again in May and hopefully seeing you at our upcoming Annual Town Election on Tuesday, April 7, 2026; results will be online @ www.RehobothMA.gov on 4-7-2026 and in the May issue of the Rehoboth Reporter. We hope you all enjoy the beautiful spring weather.

Thank you, Laura

Precription Drug Take Back

April 25, 2026 10AM - 2PM

The Rehoboth Police Department will be taking part in the Drug Enforcement Agency’s 30th National Take Back Initiative. This event will take place on April 25, 2026. Since 2010, this initiative has resulted in over 1.9 million pounds of pharmaceutical waste collected over twenty-eight drug take back events in New England. The collected medications will be disposed at several incineration facilities located throughout New England that will convert the pharmaceutical waste into clean renewable energy to be utilized by local communities. Since 2019 the Rehoboth Police Department has collected 780 pounds of pharmaceutical waste.

The DEA and its partners will collect tablets, capsules, patches, and other solid forms of prescription drugs. Liquids (including intravenous solutions), syringes and other sharps, and illegal drugs will not be accepted. DEA will continue to accept vaping devices and cartridges at its drop off locations provided lithium batteries are removed.

Helping people dispose of potentially harmful prescription drugs is just one way DEA is working to reduce addiction and stem overdose deaths.

Learn more about the event and find a local collection site at www.deatakeback.com, or by calling 800-882-9539.

Rehoboth event is being held at the Police Department 10am-2pm.

SEEKONK DENTAL

Rehoboth Animal Shelter News

This month’s featured at the Rehoboth Animal Shelter is Lola. Lola is a female bulldog about five years old and very friendly. Although she has been at the shelter for several months while being treated for heartworm, Lola has remained a good-tempered girl. She has been spayed and vaccinated and, as the end of her treatment comes in sight, we would love to line up a loving home for her. For more information, see our listings on Petfinder.com or contact the shelter. To make an appointment or to report a lost or found pet, please call the shelter at 508-252-5421, Ext 126, and leave a message.

New Postmaster for Rehoboth

Rehoboth, MA — The U.S. Postal Service has selected Adam Olarte as Postmaster of Rehoboth.

Olarte oversees 17 employees in Rehoboth, eight delivery routes covering over 4,400 addresses, and retail services including about 400 Post Office boxes.

Olarte began his U.S. Postal Service career in 2015 as a clerk in Seekonk. In 2025, he accepted a new role as a Supervisor of Customer Services and later served as the Officer-in-Charge of various offices, including Rehoboth.

"I am honored to be part of this close-knit community, as Rehoboth has always been a large part of my life and where I spent most of my time during childhood,” he said. “Coming from the Seekonk Post Office where I began my Postal career, I am already seeing many familiar faces that utilize both locations.”

Olarte continues a family tradition of service to the community with the USPS. Two aunts were long-time USPS employees, one in Rehoboth, the other in Seekonk, for a combined total of over 49 years of service.

A Birthday Blizzard of Giving!

Birthday Presents for our Rehoboth Children

The Blizzard of Giving, Inc. is available all year round to help Rehoboth Children. We are here to help make your child’s birthday even more special! Please visit our website www.rehobothblizzardofgiving. org where you can access our request forms and more information.

If you would like to include your child(ren) in our Birthday Blizzard list, please provide the following information:

• Parent/Guardian’s name, address, email, phone

• Child’s name, birthdate, school, grade, clothing size, gender, and general interests.

This information can be emailed to rehobothblizzard@gmail.com

Or mailed to Colleen McBride, 35 Pond Street, Rehoboth, MA 02769

To fulfill your requests, please send all the above information at least 3 weeks in advance of when you would like to receive your child’s gifts.

The Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Inc. is committed to serving our community by providing Christmas gifts, holiday support, and special occasion needs to Rehoboth residents who are facing challenging times in their lives. Donations can be made out to “Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Inc.” and

Lola is ready for her fur-ever home!

mailed to: Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Attn: Cathy Edington, 61 Reservoir Ave., Rehoboth, MA 02769

Colleen McBride, Cathy Edington, and Cheryl Santos Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Inc. www.rehobothblizzardofgiving.org

Thank You from the Director of Veteran Services of Rehoboth

The town of Rehoboth has taken great pride in supporting our Veterans locally and we would like to thank the Elks Clubs of Attleboro, Massachusetts for their support to the Rehoboth Veterans with a $1,000.00 Grant towards 40 each $25.00 Stop & Shop gift cards. The Director of Veteran Services would like to thank Artie Evans, the Veterans representative of the Elks Club and Dawn Fricker, for putting this together.

These generous gifts from the Elks Club and businesses in the Bristol County Community have had a huge impact on our local Veterans and their families who need support. Together we work to ensure that our Veterans do not go without food on their tables during these times.

The Director of Veteran Services of Rehoboth overseas programs such as the Massachusetts Chapter 115 for benefits that are eligible for Veterans in need.

Thank you again for your kindness, generosity and your support.

Sincerely,

John “Jake” D. Kramer

Director of Veteran Services 27 Francis Farm Road Rehoboth, MA 02769 Veterans@rehobothma.gov

Short and Touching with American Pride

My office received an e-mail from Brian Arenella, a Veteran from Rehoboth.

Flag Retirement

“I’m reaching out because I drive a tractor trailer for Win Waste Innovations and I found a flag in the garbage hanging over the edge of my trailer a couple weeks ago. My coworker and I were finishing up for the day and upon examination, I noticed a small portion of a flag and it turned out to be a special flag. It was a 5’x 9 1/2’ flag with 48 stars. It appears to have a government stamp on the white edge. From what I can tell it’s a coffin flag from a Soldier or Veteran who was buried prior to Alaska and Hawaii becoming states.

The flag was completely soaked in filth and has a big rip in it. Obviously it needs a proper retirement, but I decided to have it dry cleaned before it gets retired because ig seemed appropriate to do so. I would like to get this to you for a proper flag retirement ceremony. I assume this is something the American Legion does. I was just thinking given the flag’s history it would be worth pointing it out.”

Update from the Director of Veteran Services

When this story spread around at Brian Arenella’s work place, Win Waste Innovations in Taunton, some employees reached out to him and stated they have a Veterans support group and decided to investigate when and where this 48 star flag was collected. Their goal is to located the job site, place the flag in a case and present it original family members.

History

The 48-star U.S. flag, used from 1912 to 1959, signifies the inclusion of Arizona and New Mexico as the 47th and 48th states. It represents a crucial era in American history, spanning both World Wars and the Great Depression, and was the first flag to have an officially regulated star arrangement (six rows of eight).

Key Details and Usage Examples:

Official Period: July 4, 1912 – July 3, 1959.

Design: The 48 stars are arranged in six horizontal rows of eight stars, a design specified by President Taft in 1912.

Lasting Service: It was the longestserving U.S. flag until it was surpassed by the 50-star flag.

Historical: This flag served for 47 years, the longest-serving version until the 50-star flag surpassed it. Eight presidents served under it.

Design: The canton features 48 white, five-pointed stars arranged in six horizontal rows of eight, surrounded by the traditional 13 red and white stripes.

Era: It was the flag during major historical events, including World War I, the Great Depression, World War II, and the Korean War.

The 48-star flag was adopted after Arizona (48th) and New Mexico (47th) were admitted to the Union, completing the continental United States.

Flag proudly displayed

Flag in disgrace Flag cleaned

Rehoboth Land Trust

Upcoming RLT Events

April 12, 2026 @2pm – Dark Skies, Bright Future, J. Kelly Beatty - Carpenter Museum

Dark skies are critical for the health of humans and animals alike, yet light pollution gets worse every year. Join Rehoboth Land Trust at our annual meeting to hear J. Kelly Beatty, science educator and former editor at Sky & Telescope magazine, as he reveals the benefits of dark skies and how we can help. Kelly served for more than a decade on the Board of Directors for DarkSky International, and is now an officer with the Massachusetts chapter of DarkSky. No registration required. Public welcome!

May 16, 2026 @6:30pm - Fundamentals of Nature

Photography, Dennis Goulet - Carpenter Museum

Are you an aspiring photographer? Is your social media full of pretty pics from the outdoors? Hone your photo skills with Dennis Goulet, who will share the characteristics and techniques of good nature photography. Those who attend will also be invited to a follow-up virtual presentation, featuring the opportunity to receive feedback on one of their photos. Dennis is an award-winning photographer whose images from around the world have appeared in such publications as Audubon, Sierra, and Nature’s Best Photography.

Both of these events are part of RLT’s 2026 Nature’s Voices Speaker Series, and are free and open to the public. This speaker series is funded in part by a grant from the Rehoboth Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency. Thank you RCC!

Be a Citizen Scientist by Watching and Listening for Spring

Do you pay attention to when the Monarch butterflies first arrive in your yard? How about when the first skunk cabbage appear in the nearby wetlands? If so, you’re a phenologist!

What is phenology? It’s the tracking of natural occurrences of plants and animals such as migration and blooming influenced by the seasons. If you like to record nature events like these on your calendar, you’re not alone!

The USA National Phenology Network welcomes citizen scientists like you to submit your observations and data through their Nature’s Notebook program. Anyone can sign up to help grow their database, which is used to inform scientific studies across the country.

Even if you’re not submitting data, be sure to keep your eyes and ears open for these natural events that usually happen in April in our area:

• Ospreys and Purple Martins return after wintering in South America and Brazil

• Several birds start nesting, including Eastern Bluebirds, Black-capped Chickadees, American Robins, and Wood Ducks

• Male woodcocks display at dusk in fields at the edges of woods. Listen for their “peent” calls and watch as they fly 300 feet up and then spiral down from high in the sky to impress female woodcocks

• Spring Peepers are already calling, while American Toads begin their high-pitched trills towards the middle of the month

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subscriptions and buckets of blooms

• Wood Frogs may still be calling too – if you hear what sounds like quacking ducks but don’t see any ducks, you’re probably hearing Wood Frogs!

• Garter Snakes and Painted Turtles come out to bask in the warm sun

• Coyotes and Red Foxes give birth to pups

• Woodchucks (a.k.a. groundhogs) come out of their hibernation burrows to begin feeding on vegetation

• Spring ephemeral flowers such as Dutchman’s Breeches, trout lilies and trilliums bloom in woodlands before the trees leaf out

Learn more about the USA National Phenology Network at usanpn.org. Love the outdoors? Volunteer for the Rehoboth Land Trust and help take care of some of our properties! Sign up at rehobothlandtrust.net.

Rehoboth Land Trust, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization funded entirely by donations and run by dedicated volunteers. We are not a town committee. Learn more at www.rehobothlandtrust.org.

Wreaths Across America

Honoring Veterans and Growing a Community Mission in Rehoboth

The local effort to honor veterans through Wreaths Across America – Rehoboth Village Cemetery is entering its third year, continuing to grow thanks to strong community support. Since its launch, the mission has remained simple yet meaningful: to remember and honor every veteran laid to rest in Rehoboth. Each year has brought new momentum, fresh ideas, and stronger connections among volunteers, supporters, and local families.

As part of the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary, this year’s efforts will expand to include honoring all of Rehoboth’s Revolutionary War soldiers, placing a wreath at the entrance of each town cemetery, and continuing the long-term goal of placing a wreath on every veteran’s grave. In total, nearly 760 wreaths will be needed, including the estimated 560 veterans at Rehoboth Village Cemetery.

Returning this year is the “Flag a Friend” campaign, with hopes of reaching even more homes across the community. For $17—the cost of sponsoring one wreath—residents can have a 12-yard American flag displayed in honor of a veteran, friend, neighbor, or local business. A “Flag a Veteran” option is also available, allowing community members to nominate veterans for recognition. Flag placements will begin Memorial Day weekend, with limited availability.

Community involvement remains at the heart of the mission. Organizers are seeking volunteers, fresh fundraising ideas, and local partnerships. Businesses and individuals are invited to contribute through sponsorships, in-kind donations, or raffle items.

Supporters are encouraged to follow at @Wreaths Across America – The Rehoboth Village Cemetery/Poppy’s Crew on FB to stay connected and get involved.

www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/ NH0043P

Email at waapoppyscrew@gmail.com

With each passing year, the mission continues to grow—driven by remembrance, community, and gratitude.

Rehoboth Weighs Local Zoning Plan to Meet State Housing Law and Preserve Community Control

REHOBOTH — As the town considers how to comply with a state housing law, local officials and residents are working to clarify what the legislation does — and does not — require.

The MBTA Communities Act is a Massachusetts law requiring 177 cities and towns to create zoning districts that allow multi-family housing near public transportation, aimed at addressing the state’s housing shortage. The zoning districts must be located within half a mile of a subway, commuter rail, ferry terminal, or bus station. The minimum density for these districts is 15 units per acre, and each community’s zoning plan must allow for a specific number of new multi-family units, which varies based on the town’s current housing stock.

Rehoboth, Massachusetts qualifies as one of the towns required to comply with the MBTA Communities Act due to its designation as an MBTA community because it is adjacent to towns that host MBTA services (such as commuter rail, subway, or ferry). Although Rehoboth itself does not have a direct MBTA station, it qualifies because of its proximity to neighboring communities that do.

Under the law, Rehoboth must establish at least one zoning district where multi-family housing is allowed “by right,” meaning projects in that district would not require special permits. However, town officials retain control over where that district is located and how it is structured, as long as it meets state guidelines for size and housing capacity.

Importantly, the law does not mandate that any housing actually be built. Property owners are not required to sell or develop their land, and zoning changes would apply only to the designated district — not the entire town. The legislation also does not require the addition of public transportation, such as an MBTA train or bus system, in Rehoboth.

Despite these parameters, misconceptions have circulated within the community. Officials emphasize that the state will not “build apartments everywhere,” nor will it eliminate local decisionmaking. Development would still depend on private property owners and developers choosing to move forward with projects.

The stakes of noncompliance, however, are significant. Town leaders note that Rehoboth risks losing access to certain state grants and funding programs if it fails to meet the requirements such as the Housing Choice Initiative, the Local Capital Projects, the MassWorks infrastructure program, or the HousingWorks infrastructure program. According to local officials, the town has already missed out on some funding opportunities and remains unable to apply for others while out of compliance.

Carolyn Panofsky, the chair of the Green Energy Committee, announced that the town had been awarded a $250,000 grant from the state, as well as $130,000 in incentives from MassSave. The committee was planning to institute energy upgrades at the police station using those grants. Panofsky explained the project would cost approximately $395,000, which would include a small contribution from the town. That money is “currently being withheld” by Governor Maura Healey due to the town’s failure to comply with the MBTA Communities Act. “If we do meet that criteria by June 30, then (the state) will release the funds,” Panofsky said. “If we don’t, then we’ll have to reapply.”

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Additionally, the law is already in effect, meaning a local vote cannot overturn it. A rejection of the proposed zoning plan would only indicate that the current proposal is insufficient — not that the requirement disappears. Rehoboth is currently among a small number of communities statewide that have yet to comply.

The acceptance of a Multi-Family Overlay District failed at last November’s Town Meeting. 186 voted in favor, with 241 in opposition.

Recently, the Rehoboth Planning Board voted to forward the latest zoning plan to the Board of Selectmen for a vote at the Spring Town Meeting in June. DETAILS ON CURRENT PLAN

Krystle Adams, an opponent of the MBTA Communities Act, warned of the consequences if the zoning plan was approved at Town Meeting. “This will strain everything in this town,” Adams noted. “And the state did not do an impact study to see how it would affect us, at any point. This comes in, and it does strain our resources, the state does not say that they’re going to fund us for anything that becomes strained because of 3A. I’m sorry, but I’ll pay the bill to keep the town the way it is.”

Some residents have expressed concern that if the town does not adopt its own plan, the state could step in to enforce compliance, potentially selecting a location for the zoning district without local input.

With those considerations in mind, supporters of the proposed zoning overlay argue that approving a plan allows Rehoboth to maintain control over where multi-family housing could be permitted in the future.

Town officials encourage residents to review the proposal carefully as discussions continue. An article regarding the zoning change will be included on the Spring Town Meeting warrant.

Rehoboth Selectmen Vote to Combine Two Positions

By Joe Siegel

The Board of Selectmen voted to combine the roles of the Town Administrator and the Director of Finance into one new position. “We concluded there were deficiencies in the contract for Town Administrator,” Chairman Skip Vadnais explained. “It did not include long-term planning, budget reviews, investment oversight, financial analysis, etc.”

A consulting group was retained to evaluate the workings of town government. Recommendations were made to the board suggesting improvements. “We incorporated all of that and made a decision that the best thing we could do was what I call collapsing both contracts into one,” Vadnais continued. “We created a new job description. This is going to give us a better tool for our financial planning. It’s becoming more and more difficult for us to move ahead on property taxes, you can only support so much.”

Town Administrator Deborah Arruda’s contract expires on June 30, along with the contract of Sue Pimental, the Director of Finance. “After the Board met on March 16 under executive session to discuss my contract and the Interim Finance Director & Compliance contract, a letter was hand delivered to me by Selectman (David) Pereira stating my contract would not be renewed for FY’27,” Arruda said Tuesday. “It stated the direction the Board had decided to go in would include TA, (Human Resources) and Financing responsibilities. The current job description that I follow encompasses those duties.”

Pereira and Selectman George Solas will be scheduling interviews for the new position. “The intent is to do this before the end of the fiscal year,” Solas said.

“Anyone that’s interested should apply,” Vadnais added. “We will make a selection prior to June 30.”

Rehoboth

Budget Presented to Selectmen

By Joe Siegel

The FY’27 preliminary operating budget is 3.5 percent higher than the FY’26 budget, according to Sue Pimental, the Director of Finance and Compliance. This includes the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School, Bristol Aggie preliminary assessment, and BristolPlymouth assessment.

The town overall budget is approximately a 4.1 percent increase over last year’s budget. Pimental said that involves one-time expenses, including the purchase of cybersecurity software and bodycam software for the Police Department, which added up to $75,000 as well as the expense of early voting and three elections in FY’27, resulting in an $82,000 increase in election costs.

“It’s pretty crazy what the state requires,” Pimental said at Monday’s Selectman meeting.

Pimental has estimates from the two vocational schools in the region, Bristol-Plymouth and Bristol Agricultural High School.“Again, we have capital assessments for the two new buildings,” Pimental continued. “For Bristol-Plymouth, we’re going from 56 students now versus 47 last year.” The capital assessment is $335, 848, an increase of $90,463.

Bristol Aggie went from 39 students to 44 students. The capital assessment is $263,105, an increase of $29,898.

The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Committee approved a budget of $56.1 million for FY’27 at their February 26 meeting.

Pimental said Dighton-Rehoboth, Bristol-Plymouth, and Bristol Aggie combined have a 3.1 percent increase from last year.

However, Pimental added that the 3.1% increase will be further reduced to 2.3 % than last year with a revised Dighton Rehoboth Regional School Assessment increase at less than 1%.

All town departments were asked to build their individual budgets using zero-based budgeting. The wages and salaries for town employees were set by the Treasurer and was based on union contracts.

Any employee without a contract or out of contract, the wage and salary line was populated with a three percent increase across the board, consistent with union contracts in force.

The Finance Committee began reviewing the budget on March 16. The town will vote on the budget at the Spring Town Meeting.

Funds Available for Affordable Housing

By Joe Siegel

The Town of Rehoboth has $76,000 designated in a special stabilization account earmarked for affordable housing.

The Housing Authority was planning to hire a consultant to look into developing a type of affordable senior housing. The Housing Authority has put together a warrant article and will be presenting it at the Spring Town Meeting.

The Town of Rehoboth made a land swap deal with the Housing Authority in 2022. In exchange for giving the town a six acre parcel of land off of Anawan Street, the Housing Authority was given control over 5.41 acres of land on Bay State Road which contains the Anawan School and the adjacent site where the former Council on Aging was located.

“The RHA has made multiple attempts in securing seed money to hire a consultant to assist in the creating an RFP (request for proposals) for the Anawan Senior Housing initiative,” Chairman Paul Jacques said last October.

“In 2024, thanks to Senator Marc Pacheco’s efforts, in the Senate Housing Bond Bill, an amendment was adopted providing $500,000 to the Rehoboth Housing Authority towards the design and construction of new Senior Housing Units.”

Jacques said the RHA attempted to secure state funds for the Anawan Senior Housing Initiative ($15,000). The budget amendments failed to pass in last spring’s legislative session. “Currently, the RHA is seeking other funding sources for the RHA Anawan Senior Housing Initiative,” Jacques added.

PFAS Stabilization Fund

By Joe Siegel

Sue Pimental, Director of Finance and Compliance, notified the Rehoboth Board of Selectmen about the need for a Special Purpose PFAS Stabilization account to be used for remediation.

The town no longer has ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funds to draw from. A reserve fund transfer of $100,000 was made a few months ago. However, half of that amount has already been spent.

It is estimated to cost the town $250,000 - $300,000 annually for remediation. “The EPA continues to lower the acceptable level of PFAS in water which will result in potentially more homes that will require filtration systems and maintenance,” Pimental said in January. “In addition to the yearly cost of the filtration systems with the town, located at the Public Safety/Fire Station, Town Hall, Council on Aging and Health and Human Services buildings, the maintenance of those four are expected to cost at a minimum, $10 to $15,000 per year for each unit, in addition to increase water sampling and reporting to the DEP.”

“It’s a moving target,” said Selectman Lenny Mills. “(The government) keep making the requirements to refine the PFAS out of the water system stricter and stricter. This is an enormous liability for the town and it could grow larger. Let’s set up an account and prepare for this.”

Massachusetts mandates that PFAS drinking water levels not exceed 20 parts per trillion for a combination of all six regulated PFAS chemicals. This combination can include any percentage of these chemicals as long as the total sum is less than 20 parts per trillion.

In 2022, harmful chemicals were discovered in the wells which supply water to the Town Hall and the Fire Station on Anawan Street. The water in the Town Hall and Fire Station wells contained per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a category of thousands of man-made chemicals mainly used in consumer and industrial products, including non-stick cookware, mascara, food packaging, water and stain resistant materials and fire-fighting apparatus and foam. These chemicals have been referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their strong chemical bonds that take a long time to dissipate.

These chemicals can circulate in the human body and cause adverse health effects. These effects include fertility issues, heightened cholesterol, changes in immune systems, increased risk of some cancers, liver damage, developmental changes for children and fetuses, and increased risk of thyroid disease and asthma.

Dighton-Rehoboth Sets Earlier Last Day of School After State Waiver

The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District has finalized plans for the end of the 2025–2026 school year after a winter storm forced significant calendar changes.

A February blizzard that brought more than two and a half feet of snow caused schools to close for a full week, pushing the school year later into June. Initially, the School Committee chose not to revise the calendar, setting the last day of school for June 30.

Superintendent Bill Runey had expressed concern about extending the school year too far into the summer, noting that rising temperatures in school buildings would negatively impact students. State law requires districts to meet a minimum of 900 instructional hours for elementary students and 990 hours for secondary students, limiting flexibility in adjusting the calendar.

To address the issue, Runey requested a waiver from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education

(DESE), which has now been approved. The waiver allows the district to meet instructional requirements without completing the traditional 180 school days.

With the waiver in place, the School Committee approved a revised calendar setting the last day of school for students as Friday, June 26.

To ensure the required instructional hours are met, previously scheduled early release days—April 8 and June 26—will now be full school days.

The district has also updated several end-of-year events, including middle school promotion ceremonies on June 25 and elementary school celebrations throughout mid-to-late June.

Runey thanked families for their patience during a winter that required multiple schedule adjustments and said the changes are intended to provide clarity as the school year comes to a close. He also noted that the revised calendar may have contractual implications, and the district will work with staff unions to address any concerns.

School Committee Approves $55 Million Budget

By Joe Siegel

The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Committee approved a $55 Million budget for FY’27 at their March 24 meeting.

The committee also voted to use $750,000 from the school department’s E and D account toward the budget.

“We had significant attrition in staffing reductions which were proposed for FY’24 and FY’25,” Superintendent Bill Runey said. “We have continued to operate at a reduced staffing level. Just to refresh the committee and the community’s memory, sitting up there for the FY’24 and FY’25 (budgets) were very painful. The positive relationship we’ve built with union leadership during my time, the positive relationship we’ve built with municipal leadership was certainly at risk or at least, strained during that time. Last year we were able to claw back one position and tonight, I am proposing that no positions are to be cut.”

There are five new teaching positions in the budget, including four at the high school. Three are for the Career and Technical Education program: Criminal Justice and Public Safety, Culinary Hospitality and Food Service, and Medical Careers along with targeted student support staffing.

Runey also commented on the special town meeting which was held in 2022. At the time there was an effort to deregionalize the school district.

“I did understand (the residents) concerns, but had they left us, it would have been chaos because we would have had teachers who were no longer working under a particular bargaining unit,” Runey noted. “There was a lot of angst and anxiety. I am so grateful to the residents of Rehoboth for giving us a chance and I believe we are delivering.”

DRiving The Community Forward – Bill Runey Named One of Education Insider Magazine’s Top 15 Superintendents of 2026

By Mikey Alves

The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District has announced that Superintendent Bill Runey has been named one of Education Insider Magazine’s Top Fifteen School District Superintendents of 2026, a national recognition honoring leaders who are redefining excellence in education.

The feature displays how Runey’s recognition reflects not just his strong leadership abilities, but also the collective effort of an entire community. As a matter of fact, Runey learned a great deal of his leadership abilities from his parents. His dad was a teacher, coach, and athletic director who created environments built on repect, while his mom was a school nurse who always represented a calm demeanor, strength, and compassion.

“My parents, both educators, didn’t talk about leadership in formal terms, but they modeled it every day, through work ethic, humility, and how they treated people. They taught me that relationships matter, that you show up for others, and that you take pride in doing things the right way. Those lessons have stayed with me throughout my career,” said Runey.

“In education especially, leadership isn’t about position, it’s about trust. It’s about being visible, being consistent, and surround-

ing yourself with great people. I’ve been fortunate to work with an incredible team here in Dighton-Rehoboth, and any recognition like this really reflects the collective work of our staff, our students, and our two communities,” said Runey.

Under Runey’s leadership, Dighton-Rehoboth continues advancing its “DRiving Toward 2030” strategic plan which is focused on empowering educators, igniting student curiosity, and preparing students for successful futures. Within D-R’s classrooms today, Runey elaborated upon how this 2030 plan isn’t solely a long-term vision— it’s already currently being implemented within classrooms across the entire community.

“At the elementary and middle school levels, it can be as simple—and as meaningful—as giving students a voice and a sense of ownership. A great example is the recent ‘Name the Falcon’ contest, where students helped shape something that represents our district. Moments like that build confidence, creativity, and connection—skills that matter just as much as academics,” Runey said.

“At the same time, we’re deeply focused on meeting the needs of every learner. Whether it’s through strong special education programming, inclusive practices, or the individualized support our students rely on, we’re committed to making sure every student has access to meaningful learning experiences and feels a true sense of belonging,” Runey said.

“As students move up, those opportunities expand into Early College, Career and Technical Education, and the thoughtful use of technology and AI. But the foundation stays the same: engage students, challenge them, support them, and help them see themselves as capable of shaping their future. ‘DRiving Toward 2030’ isn’t something that lives on paper; it’s happening every day, from our youngest learners to our seniors. That’s who we are. Together, we are DR,” Runey added.

Runey’s biggest hope is that D-R finishes the year strong and continues to build momentum.

“This is always a busy stretch, but it’s also a time when a lot of great things come together—academic growth, performances, athletics, and celebrations. I want our students to stay engaged and take pride in their progress, and for our staff to feel empowered and recognized for the impact they make every day,” said Runey.

“We’ve built something special here, and I’d like us to carry that energy right through the end of the year. At the same time, we’re continuing to work closely with our communities to ensure that this momentum is supported and sustained moving forward for our students and staff,” said Runey.

“And on a personal note, I’m grateful for the recognition—but it really belongs to the people who show up every day for our students. That’s what makes We Are DR—words we live by,” Runey added.

This recognition adds to several national acknowledgments Runey and D-R’s district have received, including the National Leaders of Distinction Award from District Administration Magazine and a Best Managed School District for 2025 feature in Business View Magazine.

To read the full article, visit: https://www. educationinsidermagazine.com/cxoinsight/ bill-runey-nwid-882.html

Bill Runey

Rehoboth Council on Aging

Francis Hall

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

Breakfast

Mon / Wed / Fri From 8:30-10

Lunch

Mon / Wed @ Noon. Come join us

Vitamins & Supplements

By Tara Hammes RDN from MCOA

Thursday April 9th @ 10:00 Muffins & coffee served

Spring Fling & Egg Thing

Wednesday April 8th Noon-2:00pm

Tickets $10.00

A Day at the Derby

Wed April 29th Noon-2:00pm

Tickets $10.00

Start celebrating our Country’s 250th Birthday

Wednesday April 22nd 10:30-11:30

Our own Cathy Potter will tell the true story of our flag and stories of unknown heroes of the Revolutionary War

Piano Serenade

Fridays 10:30 - 11:00

Russell Raiche will be playing the piano for us

Book Club

The First Monday of Month at 10:00 Held in the Arcade

Join Our Walking Club

Mon-Wed-Friday 10:00AM

NEW Start time 10:00. Please join our email list for inclement weather closings

Join our Email List

Updates during the month

COAmail@rehobothma.gov

Please also find us at https://www.rehobothma.gov/council-aging-0

Craft Supplies Needed

We have 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

Meals on Wheels:

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

ACTIVITIES

Mondays

8:30-10 BREAKFAST

9:00 Barre Class $3.00 Helps with balance, strength, and posture

10:00 Walking Club

10:00 Cornhole Toss

10:00 Interval Fitness (NEW) $3.00

Timed intervals for fitness and rest focus on strength, balance, cardio, and a relaxing stretch at the end. Use of various props. All fitness levels welcome

10:30 Bocce

Noon Gert’s Café ~ Ltd seating ~ $5.00

1:00 Line Dancing $3.00

Tuesdays

9:00 Dancer-cise $3.00

10:00 Jewelry Making Class $5.00 We will be doing Glass etching, wool felting, and more. These classes will be priced accordingly

10:00 Seated Yoga Fusion $3.00 Gentle Yoga with blend of movement and breathwork

10:00 Sewing & Quilting

11:00 Functional Fitness $3.00 StrengthBalance-Cardio-Stretch with a mix of props and great music

1:00 Hi-Lo Jack

1:00- 3:00 Oil Painting Class (NEW) any skill level $ 5.00

Wednesdays

8:30 - 10:00 Breakfast

10:00 Walking Club

10:00 Fiber Arts (Knitting & Crochet get together. Jane Williams)

10:30 Bocce

10:30 Cornhole Toss

April 2026

Noon Lunch Ltd seating ~ $5.00

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

1:00-3:00 Dominoes

Thursday

9:00 Tai Chi $3.00

10:00 Drums Alive $3.00 Fun, rhythmic cardio workout using stability balls and drumsticks

11:00 Functional Fitness

$3.00 StrengthBalance-Cardio-Stretch with a mix of props and great music

Noon Soup to Go

1:00-3:00 Paper Crafting Class: Card Making, Stamping, Cricut Machine . $5.00

1:00-3:00 Watercolor Class $5.00 1:00-3:00 Cribbage

Friday

8:30 - 10:00 Breakfast Buffet

10:00 Walking Club

10:30 Bocce

10:30 Cornhole Toss

10:30 -11:00 piano Serenade by Russell Raiche

As always, all pricing is a suggested donation. Please sign up for Lunch ahead of time. This helps Chef Chico plan meals

Rehoboth Public Health Nurse

Geraldine Hamel, RN MSN: Monday through Thursday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. 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

• Podiatry Clinic: Last Thursday of the month

• Blood Pressures & Glucose Screenings Please contact Geri Hamel for more information on these services.

Rehoboth Council on Aging

A Municipal Department of the Town Mission:

Commercial & Industrial Paving • Residential Driveways

The Rehoboth Senior Center’s mission is to develop and provide programs, opportunities, and resources to enrich the social, emotional, physical, mental, and economic well-being of Rehoboth’s elder citizens.

The Rehoboth Senior Center shall serve as a community focal point and an inclusive support system where Rehoboth’s elder citizens:

• Can engage in leisure, wellness, educational, and social programs that promote an enhanced quality of life and socialemotional health and well-being

• Can enjoy onsite meals prepared in the senior center kitchen and be served in the building’s dining area

• Can connect to their peers and community

• Can foster inter-generational relationships and shared activities

• Can obtain information on and access to governmental supports and programs that connect people to transportation, housing, nutritional, and economic assistance

• Can gain access to health information and resources to support independence and ensure healthy aging in our community

• Can seek out opportunities for lifetime learning and volunteering and civic engagement

The Rehoboth Senior Center’s vision is to grow and expand our offerings while preserving our commitment to the dignity and worth of every person in our community.

The Rehoboth Council on Aging shall:

a. Provide, coordinate and link available resources to help meet the needs of the Town of Rehoboth’s elders.

b. Carry out programs and services that range from information on community education, referrals, outreach, transportation, Meals on Wheels, health screenings, intergenerational activities, crafting programs and other programs beneficial to our seniors.

Rehoboth Ramblings

By Leslie Patterson

Celebrating Signs of Spring

It’s spring again (thank God) and we can put away heavy down coats, clunky boots, thick mittens, and snow shovels. What a winter! Just what we needed after a very heavy snow in January, a blizzard with two to three feet of snow in February. I discovered something new under the heavy snow this winter – snow mold (I had to look it up). It was a filmy white substance that appeared on the lawn once melting started. It went away on its own soon enough.

I always welcome the cheerful sound of the peep toads this time of year and I’m looking forward to the return of the hummingbirds in a few weeks. Meanwhile the sunflower seed feeder has been a busy place for overwintering birds these past months. It’s birds vs. squirrels, even with a squirrel-proof sunflower seed dispenser (it works pretty well, actually). But the suet blocks we hung up for the woodpeckers, to keep them from rat-a-tatting on the side of the house, attracted voracious squirrels too.

Even using the spicy suet didn’t help (birds apparently can’t taste the hot spice so it’s fine with them). The squirrels managed to dig into the hot stuff too, however. I made a few wisecracks about squirrels wearing sombreros. Thanks go to all the local folks whose efforts have attracted so many bluebirds to Rehoboth. Once a rare sight, these cheerful little birds brighten up a dreary winter day. Squirrels love the mealworms set out for the bluebirds too, of course. It’s a losing battle.

The swallows have returned to Capistrano (I assume) and the herons have returned to Seekonk, though there isn’t a song about them that I’m aware of. The nesting colony in the small wetland behind the fence at Home Depot on Rt. 6 has a couple dozen nests high up in the treetops and it’s fun to watch these huge birds flying back and forth with sticks and nesting material in their large beaks. (Cue another joke about getting building supplies from Home Depot). Soon the young will hatch and you’ll be able to hear the click/clacking of their beaks in the nest. You’ll also frequently find bird-watchers with professional cameras at this spot and it’s a good idea to bring your binoculars for better viewing.

Last spring and early summer we noticed quite a few little fiddler crabs along the shore in Rhode Island, emerging from the sand and waving a giant claw around. We found them at the Touisset Marsh Wildlife Refuge in Warren (part of the RI Audubon Society) and at the DEM Sapowet Marsh site just north of Fogland in Tiverton, and I’m sure they are emerging at a lot of other places along the shore too. A note on Touisset: it’s easy to get there from here but it’s best not to visit after a heavy rain unless you are wearing hip-waders. It can get pretty swampy. The trail is only a mile but winds through meadow, wetland, woods, and shoreline. I’ve seen at least one coyote there recently. The coyote saw me too and slipped right back into the woods.

We were sorry to see that the osprey nest high up on a platform right on the bay at the Audubon Center in Bristol was destroyed last year, presumable during a bad summer storm, though one tree-top nest remains there close by the trail. We hope the ospreys will keep coming back to this location. I always feel bad for the “abandoned” osprey chicks whose parents have flown the nest late in the summer, leaving their offspring to figure out migration on their own. Nature is not sentimental and presumably the juvenile birds head south before autumn.

Other springtime places of interest in the East Bay area are Daffodil Days in April at the Blithewold Estate in Bristol, and Colt State Park, including the bike path from there to downtown Bristol. Right next to the park, Coggleshall Farm will offer a couple of farm animal demonstrations that may interest the whole family: oxen weekend is April 19 and 19, where you can watch a team of oxen

perform their chores as in days long ago, and then on Sat. May 16, there will be a sheep and wool festival. These are just a few events coming up around here this season. After this awful winter, it will be good to get outside again and enjoy the return of spring.

The Seekonk Scene

From the Seekonk Town Clerk’s Office

March has been a very busy for the Town Clerk’s Office processing census forms, dog licenses, vote by mail and absentee applications, and preparing for the Annual Town Election.

The 2026 Rabies Clinic was a great success! A special thank you to our Animal Control Officers, Andrea Russo, Jessica Blake and Ashley Lawrence, Dr. Truesdale of Central Avenue Veterinary Hospital and Seekonk Save-a-Pet volunteers for processing all the rabies certificates, and the Seekonk Fire Department for their help setting up for the event and letting us use their facility. We would also like to thank Rehoboth Animal Control Officer Rob Johnson and Rehoboth Town Clerk’s Office for participating in the clinic again this year!

Annual Town Census

Thank you for all those who have returned their 2026 Town Census/Street Listing form. To date, we have received and processed 5,414 households. There are 1,510 census forms that still need to be returned (Precinct 1=356; Precinct 2=376; Precinct 3=425 and Precinct 4=353). If you have not returned yours yet, please do so as soon as possible. Please be sure to update and/or make any changes to the form, sign, and return it to our office by mail, in-person, or by leaving it in the drop box located at the front entrance of Town Hall.

Green Care is hiring for the

Compensation from $20/hr to $28/hr

Green Care is a growing company with plenty of opportunity to advance We offer paid holidays, retirement plan, sick leave, dental, and medical insurance

Out Our Design Services

Kristen L’Heureux

Shandra Ferreira

Dog Licensing - Dog Tags Expired March 31st

Thank you for all those who applied for their dog license before the March 31st deadline. To date, we have processed 847 dog license applications.

All dog licensing now requires online registration. Payments can still be made in-person or by mail, but the licensing process requires an online registration. If you have any difficulty completing your application online, please call us and we are happy to walk you through the process over the phone OR you can stop by our office with your valid rabies certificate and valid email address, and we will assist you at our kiosk station. Failure to comply will result in issuance of MGL violation & fine. If your license remains delinquent after May 31st, a late fee of $25 per dog will also apply.

Plan Ahead - May Events

Annual Spring Town Meeting

The Annual Spring Town meeting will be held on May 11, 2026 at 6:00PM in the auditorium at the Seekonk High School. Check-in begins at 5:00PM. PLEASE NOTE THE START TIME IS 6:00PM.

The Seekonk High School Key Club will be providing babysitting services for the Spring Town Meeting. Early sign up is REQUIRED to ensure proper staffing. Deadline to sign up is Sunday, May 10th at 10:00PM. No walk-ins will be allowed. You can sign up at https:// forms.gle/g9CGmwyr1oUKDGsL9. If you have any questions, please contact Deanna Marinucci at marinuccid@seekonkschools. org

Drop-Off Begins: 5:45 PM

Check-In Location: Elevator Lobby (outside the library)

Memorial Day Parade

The Seekonk Memorial Day Parade is scheduled on Saturday, May 23, 2026. 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 made the ultimate sacrifice in service of our country.

In observance of Memorial Day, the Town Offices will be closed on Monday, May 25th.

Tax Collector’s Reminders

If you have any questions concerning any of the following, please call the tax collector’s office directly at 508-336-2930.

Did you know the Registry of Motor Vehicles issues motor vehicle excise tax bills throughout the year? The majority are issued in February and due in March (tax commitment #1-2026). If you have not received your bill by March 1st please contact the Tax Collector’s Office at 508-336-2930.

If you no longer have the vehicle, please see the reverse side of the excise tax bill for instructions and provide the information to the Tax Assessor’s Office.

Motor Vehicle Excise Tax commitment #7 (2025) was issued February 9th and due March 11th. Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Commitment #2 (2026) will be issued April 7th and due May 7th.

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Personal Touch

Country Gift Shoppe

Wreaths • Florals • Scented Candles Framed Pictures • Patriotic • Lanterns Linens • Battery Operated Candles ...and so much more!

299 Fall River Ave. Seekonk, MA • (508) 336-0488

Tuesday-Saturday 10-5

AMERICANA AUCTION

Cash in your unwanted or unused gold jewelry, sterling flatware or tea set. Sell outright or consign to our 5-star Antique Auction. Nationally Recognized

FY 26 Disposal Bills were mailed on September 18, 2025 and were due October 21, 2025 ($315.00 per unit). Demand notices were mailed November 18th and were due December 2nd. For your updated balance, please contact the collector’s office.

Real Estate and Personal Property Taxes:

Further collection notices will be issued for any unpaid Fiscal Year 2025 balances.

Fiscal Year 2026 Preliminary Real Estate and Personal Property Tax Bills were mailed the first week in July.

The first quarter payment was due by August 4, 2025. The second quarter was due by November 3, 2025. Actual Real Estate and Personal Property Tax Bills were mailed at the end of December.

The third quarter was due February 2nd and fourth will be due May 4th

If you are wondering how much you paid in real estate taxes last year, the information can be found on the Collector’s webpage on the Town’s website under “How Much Did I Pay in Real Estate Taxes Last Year.”

Please note: The Tax Collector’s office does NOT process the Water Department’s bills and cannot accept payments for the Water District. Please mail or drop off your payment to Seekonk Water District, 50 Water Lane, Seekonk, MA 02771

Town Office Contact Numbers

We continuously strive to provide accessible information to our residents as quickly as possible. In order to serve you better and for faster service, please contact the office you need directly. Below is the list of offices with their direct telephone numbers.

• Animal Control - 508-336-6663

• Assessor’s Office - 508-336-2980 - (property values, excise tax questions, exemptions, maps)

• Building/Inspectional Services -508-336-2990 - (state building, electrical, fuel, gas, and plumbing codes, enforces zoning by-laws)

• Collector’s Office -508-336-2930 - (payments/bills for real estate & personal property tax)

• Conservation Office- 508-336-2943

• Public Works (DPW) - 508-336-7407 - (trash, blue bags, recycling, snow removal, bulky item pick up)

• Finance Office - 508-336-2933

• Fire (non-emergency) - 508-336-8510

• Health Department - 508-336-2950(dumpster permits, burial permits, Title V)

• Human Services - 508-336-8772

• Library - 508-336-8230

• Planning/Zoning - 508-336-2960

• Parks & Recreation - 508-336-2942

• Police (non-emergency) - 508-336-8123

• Town Administrator/Select Board - 508336-2910

• Town Clerk’s Office - 508-336-2920 - (Vital records, dog/kennel licenses, business certificates, elections. Cemetery),

• Treasurer’s Office - 508-336-2970 - (payroll, retirees’ contact, employment verification)

• Veteran Services - 508-336-2940

We hope you have a wonderful month. As always, please contact us (508) 336-2920 or by email at townclerk@seekonk-ma.gov if you have any questions. Thank you for taking the time to read the Town Clerk’s Office monthly update.

~Kristen and Shandra

*Sustainable Seekonk*

By Christine Zadykovich, Recycling Coordinator @ Seekonk DPW 508336-7407

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

Earth Month Celebration (Litter Patrol, Rain Barrels & More!) Our Earth Month Celebration is set for Sat April 11th from 8am-4pm at DPW. Litter Patrol will be the entire day-signup at www.Seekonkma.gov/388/Recycling-Committee stop by anytime for supplies, then return will collected trash for a treat & prizes. From 12-4pm, rain barrels (pre order required), backyard compost bins, and kitchen scrap buckets will be distributed, and you can also sign up or renew your Adopt-a-Drain agreement for free blue bags. See website for full details on the event, pre-order, and the Adopt-a-Drain program. Second Saturdays @ Special Recycling Shed! The Special Recycling Shed at TARF is open ONLY on the 2nd Saturday of each month 8AM-12PM, and accepts anti-freeze, all light bulbs, all batteries, all mercury items, radioactive smoke/carbon detectors, ink/ toner cartridges and string lights & extension cords - free of charge. Solar panels & propane tanks & empty fire extinguishers (remove all plastic parts) w/blue $10 bulky stickers as well.

Seekonk Transfer Station/TARF (351 Fall River Ave) open year-round Mon-Thu 7am-3pm and Fri 6:15-9:45am (Sat hours vary seasonally-check website or call) for drop off of yard waste (leaves, grass, twigs). Bulky Waste Pass Days continue Apr 11, and May 9 for current FY passes. Passes are $30 and can be purchased at the DPW offices.

Food Waste Compost Collection at TARF: Black Earth Compost collection where residents can bring household food waste. Acceptable items include: fruit & vegetable scraps, 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 & transport. You can dump food waste directly into the bins or use certified compostable bags-no plastic bags please!

Seekonk DPW Offices (871 Taunton Ave) has textile collection bins & a Terracycle collection shed in the parking lot, and small rechargeable batteries/cell phone collection bin and eye glasses collection inside the lobby. String lights & extension cords are also accepted anytime. Bulky Waste Pickup stickers available for the 2nd & 4th Weds of each month for most items, 3rd Tues for metal/ electronics, & 3rd Weds for mattresses/boxsprings. There is also a mail in form available online if you’re unable to come into the office during office hours.

Don’t Trash It! Consider donating items still usable-post a free CURB ALERT on social media, or search donation near me for pickup if you can’t drop off at any local resource like Savers, Goodwill, 4 Echoes or Angel’s Care Closet. If items are broken/no longer usable, pick up a special recycling packet at DPW or town website for FREE recycling resources-especially for electronics which contain valuable materials that can be reused/recycled when handled properly.

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

Recycling Tip of The Month: Remember to REDEEM your bottles & cans back to the store or a redemption center-get your $money$ back and get the materials directly back to the bottling companies to be made into new containers!

*Please remember to recycle right, and…. Reduce-Reuse-Recycle (in THAT order!)*

Seekonk Residents,

Thank you for taking the time to vote in the Town’s election.

All the candidates appreciate you for taking the time and interest in Seekonk. Thank you again.

Michelle A. Hines

Paid for by Michelle Hines

Please Join the Seekonk Land Trust

Celebrating Earth Day

Annual Earth Day Cleanup

Saturday, April 11th at 10AM

It’s that time of year again! We are kicking off Spring by partnering with the Seekonk Litter Patrol and Seekonk DPW for our Annual Earth Day Cleanup. We will be picking up trash on the public trails around Burrs Pond and at other Land Trust properties in Seekonk.

Meet At: Edna Martin Wildlife Refuge Parking Lot 357 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA 02771 (next to the American Legion Hall)

*Don’t forget to wear appropriate clothing and footwear

*Bring your work gloves, bug spray, and water bottles

*We’ll have trash bags and extra gloves on hand

Please let us know that you plan to attend or reach out if you have any questions by emailing: Jessica Blackledge, SLCT Stewardship Coordinator at slctstewardship@gmail.com

We look forward to seeing you there! Get Your Hands Dirty with SLCT!

Annual Meeting of The Seekonk Land Trust

Wednesday, April 29, 2026 6:30 - 8:30 PM

Stone Walls Of Seekonk at Seekonk Public Library

Have you ever wondered about the stone walls seen poking through trees and fields throughout the back roads of our town? Some have been artfully reconstructed, but others are rather ignored and surprisingly found far off the main roads, tumbling down into linear remnants of a past time and just appear as rocks fallen and forgotten in a row. But, they represent time gone by and a different era in our town’s history.

Rob Emlen, a retired professor from Brown University, studies these walls that represent the historical landscape of rural New England. He will speak about old stone walls, laid by generations of traditional builders, including those that bound his home, the 1875 Solon Carpenter House.

The Annual Meeting begins at 6:30pm with an overview of the Land Trust’s mission and the announcement of the annual Mary C. Wilson Conservation Award followed by a presentation by Mr. Emlen. All are welcome to attend. The meeting is free and light refreshments will be served.

For more information on this and other events, visit seekonklandtrust.org

Girl Scout Troop 707 Conducts One Final Service Project to Honor

the Memory of Diane Fox

For over twelve years, the young women of Girl Scout Troop 707 have been performing service projects in our community; in recent years, the girls had conducted toy drives at Christmas and donated the toys to be distributed to Doorways’ families. Their point of contact for these holiday donations was the late Diane Fox; Diane was a key volunteer for Doorways, who organized the ordering and stocking of all food products, plus overseeing Saturday morning food distribution. She was a kind and compassionate woman and a fierce advocate for our neighbors in need – described as “the beating heart of Doorways”.

Last year, as the girls reached maturity, Troop 707 decided to disband; but first, they decided to conduct one final service project in honor of their friend. They took the remainder of their troop treasury and spent it all on personal care items – over $2,000 worth of shampoos, soaps, toothpaste and the like. Troop Leader Jenn Ullucci purchased and assembled the items, and Troop Leader Marianne Shymanik sewed 120 cloth zippered bags to be packed for individual distribution. The donation filled a flatbed cart to overflowing.

Afterwards, I gave Marianne Shymanik a tour of the Doorways shopping area; I pointed to the one empty shelf in the room and said “That shelf is for personal care items. You’ll notice that it’s empty.” Marianne Shymanik answered me back “It won’t be empty anymore!”

Thank you, Girl Scout Troop 707, for your care for your neighbors in need.

Gerry McCabe of Doorways and Marianne Shymanik with GS Troop 707’s massive donation of personal care items

Aitken PTO Bingo Night Raises Food for Doorways

The Aitken School PTO held another family-friendly “Bingo Night” and used the occasion to also teach the students a lesson in community involvement. Families attending the event were asked to bring non-perishable grocery items for the local food pantry. The Aitken School community does several events each year in support of the Doorways food pantry, and we thank them – and we thank all the other Seekonk schools, who also hold events to support our neighbors. Last year over 5,500 of our neighbors were fed through the Doorways food pantry – all at no cost to our client families, and all made possible by the generosity of the people of Seekonk. Our gratitude is boundless - we are humbled by your support, awed by your generosity, and hopeful for the future. We give thanks for all you do.

Martin School Continues to Support Doorways

Mindy Andrews, Matt Faria, Jayden Diaz, Madison Chaffee, and Jamie Lopes, all members of the Martin School faculty, dropped off several hundred pounds of food to the Doorways food pantry which were collected as part of Martin School’s annual holiday food drive. The Martin School community has been holding a food drive for many years and have always

been a strong presence in helping our neighbors in need. The Doorways family would like to thank Martin School faculty, staff, students and their families for their ongoing support. You are making life a little easier for some folks who are facing hard times.

Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Parish Holds Lenten Food Drive for Doorways

A Sincere word of “Thanks” to the Parishioners of Our Lady Queen of Martyrs for your generous outpouring of food donations in the recent food drive. We also wish to thank the St. Vincent de Paul Society for the hard work in arranging the drive and delivering the collected food. It is estimated that over 650 pounds of food, as well as monetary donations, were collected! Truly outstanding! Over 70 families rely on Doorways on a regular basis, and

Doorways relies on people like the parishioners of OLQM. Thank you again. God bless you all!

Pictured above are (from left) Vincentians Gary Alaowniis and Dave Goudreau and Confirmation candidate Luke P.

MArtin School Faculty with their sizeable donation

Aitken PTO Bingo Night Raises Food for Doorways

Seekonk School Budget Still in Limbo

By Joe Siegel

The FY’27 school budget is still in limbo after the Select Board and the School Committee were unable to reach an agreement at their April 1 meeting.

The School Committee will hold a special meeting on Wednesday to vote on the budget.

The current budget projection, considering level services and mandatory updates, is a 4.61 percent increase ($1.5 million). The school budget will be presented to voters at the May 11 Town Meeting.

Fixed costs have increased in several categories, including transportation, energy, maintenance materials, and tuitions. Level services, non-salary costs are the primary driver of the increases.

“We are attempting to work together to meet the needs of all constituents in this town,” said Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell.

Town Administrator Shawn Cadime is willing to give the school department a smaller increase, closer to three percent. Kidwell said $544,000 would have to be reduced from the school budget to reach three percent.

Fees for transportation, athletics, and student parking at Seekonk High School are a possibility. Kidwell said another option to save money would be to not fill some vacant staff positions or to eliminate elective courses. Larger class sizes would be a result at Hurley Middle School and the two elementary schools. Eliminating athletics altogether would save the district $695,000.

“This is what we’re down to at this point and we want to be transparent with the community,” Kidwell noted. “We have already reduced everything that is extra. We’ve already made significant cuts beyond what is extra.”

“We’re trying to be even and fair in how we reduce the budget,” said school committee chair Bob Gerardi. “We have increased

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class sizes to the limits, where it's detrimental if we go higher. We have reduced course offerings. I feel like these budgets have set us back four years.”

Committee member Kyle Juckett, who is not running for reelection, acknowledged mistakes have been made.

“I think both of these boards have failed, myself included. Had we truly met to collaborate and find a solution to this problem, I don’t think we have. Maybe I should have pushed harder to have these types of meetings,” Juckett said. “This is a problem we all do have to solve together.”

Select Board member Michael Healy said agreement between the two boards on a budget figure before town meeting would be “very difficult.”

“The last thing I want to see is for us to go to Town Meeting and not be on the same page,” Healy added. “That usually doesn’t work well for one side or the other.”

Select Board Approves Bid for Medeiros Farm Project

By Joe Siegel

The Seekonk Select Board approved a bid award for CHA Consulting for design services for the Medeiros Farm project at Wednesday’s meeting. The vote was 4 to 1. Chair Michelle Hines, Chris Zorra, Pam Pozzi, and Michael Healy were in favor, with Gary Sagar opposed.

At the May 2023 Town Meeting, $150,000 was appropriated from the Community Preservation Fund to hire a consultant to develop a master plan for the Medeiros Farm at Elm Street and Lincoln Street. A seven member committee was appointed to oversee the project. David Sullivan is the Chairman. Sullivan also serves as Chairman of the town’s Planning Board. The other members all represent other town committees.

The Medeiros Farm Recreation and Park Master Plan outlined four objectives: active recreation, passive recreation, historic preservation, and a Community Park.

Residents from Elm Street and Lincoln Street expressed their opposition to having soccer fields in their neighborhood. They cited traffic and safety concerns.

Seekonk Schools Launch Caregiver Engagement Initiative

By Joe Siegel

Seekonk Public Schools has announced the launch of its new caregiver engagement initiative, “Together for Student Success,” a series of interactive sessions designed to strengthen partnerships between schools and families while addressing topics that impact student well-being and achievement.

The first session, “Protecting Children in the Digital Era,” was held on March 18 in partnership with the Children’s Advocacy Center of Bristol County. The event brought together caregivers and school staff for a discussion focused on online safety, social media awareness, and strategies for supporting children in today’s digital world.

On Wednesday, May 6, from 6 to 7:30 p.m., the district will host their next installment, a virtual session titled “Identifying Anxiety and Supporting Effective Regulation,” presented by the Massachusetts Partnership for Youth.

“We know that when schools and caregivers work together, students thrive,” said Zach Waddicor, Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning. “The strong turnout and meaningful dialogue at our first session reinforced the importance of creating these opportunities for connection and shared learning.”

The district plans to continue the “Together for Student Success” series throughout the year, offering additional sessions on topics informed by caregiver feedback and evolving community needs.

Seekonk Human Services

The center is open Monday - Thursday 8:15am - 4:00pm and Friday 8:15am - 12:00pm. We welcome all to come and enjoy the activities and companionship at Seekonk Human Services.

Holiday Hours

Closed on Monday, April 20, 2026

Seekonk Veterans’ Coffee Hour

Monday, April 6, 2026 at 2:00pm

Come and join Seekonk’s Veterans Services Officer, James LaFlame, for our Coffee Hour. The event is for our Veterans to have some coffee and dessert, network with other local veterans, learn about services and programs available to you as a veteran, and enjoy great company. If you are interested in coming to this activity, please call us to register.

Spring Gathering

Wed, April 8, 2026 at 11:30am

Join us for our Spring Gathering with entertainment by Steve Burke. Steve Burke, RI musician is a one-man band that plays the keyboard, sax, smooth jazz vocals. You can sit down, relax and listen to songs from Sinatra to Santana and some of his own songs too! This is sure to be a great time. Lunch will be chicken salad sliders, pasta salad, chips and dessert. The cost will be $10 for residents and $13 for non-residents. Preregistration is required.

Hearing Clinic by At Home Hearing

Monday, April 13, 2026 at 1:00pm

At Home Hearing Healthcare is a mobile Hearing Instrument Specialist team with over 38 years of experience. They specialize in detecting and resolving issues with hearing loss. If hearing loss is detected, the individual will be advised regarding the next steps for pursuing proper treatment. For individuals who do not have hearing loss, this screening establishes a valuable baseline to measure any future issues. They do accept MassHealth. Preregistration is required.

Larry Houser Trivia

Wed, April 15, 2026 at 1:00pm

Come join Larry Houser for Team Trivia! Not-so-hard questions just about everything - movies, music, animals, old expressions, advertising from the 1960s and 70s. Come as a team of 2, 3 or 4 or come alone and we’ll find a team for you! Gift card prizes to all players on the winning team! Preregistration is required.

Book Club

Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at 10:00am

Come join the discussion of, The Island of Sea Women by Lisa See. A mesmerizing new historical novel, about female friendship and devastating family secrets on a small Korean island. The group will be led with discussion questions, but feel free to bring your own. Preregistration is required.

Parks and Recreation

With spring on the way, I am inviting the youth in grades K-12 to join Parks and Recreation for our craft hour. For April, I will be offering a flower pot painting craft on April 21, 2026. It will start at 2:00 PM and will be held at the Human Services building at 540 Arcade Avenue, Seekonk, MA. 0277.1 Pre-registration is required. Register at seekonkma.myrec.com. The cost for residents is $5.00 and non-residents $7.00 Registration is open from April 1st - 14th. Any questions call Erica at 508-336-8772, or email parksandrecreation@seekonk-ma.gov

Kevin Richman Music Bingo

Wed, April 22, 2026 at 1:00pm

Do you love music? Do you love BINGO? Then you will love Music BINGO! All the songs you grew up listening to in a BINGO format. It’s the best of both worlds. Great music, great friends and great prizes you won’t want to miss. Preregistration is required.

Ticked Off: Why These Tiny Pests Are a Huge Problem

Monday, April 27, 2026 at 2:00pm

Ticks are most active in warmer months and can transmit a variety of diseases, including Lyme Disease. From working in your yard to camping in the woods, it helps to know which ticks live in your area and what diseases they can spread. Please join Lisa Valente, Regional Public Health Nurse along with Hannah Ragozzino, MPH, Regional Epidemiologist and Elizabeth Paiva, MPH, Public Health Specialist from the Southcoast Public Health Coalition for a presentation on ticks. Learn about the types of ticks we have locally, where to find them, and how to protect yourself, your pets, and your family. Preregistration is required.

Matt York—Classic Country Music

Wed, April 29, 2026 at 1:00pm

Matt York returns to Seekonk with his classic country musical presentation. Matt will perform songs and talk about the careers of some of the great country and honky-tonk singers of the past. This show highlights those artists, like Patsy Cline, Hank Williams Sr., Loretta Lynne and George Jones, who not only made beautiful music, but also were larger than life figures. Matt has traveled extensively through the years performing his own songs and also doing the Highwaymen: Songs & Stories. This program is funded by the Seekonk Cultural Council. Preregistration is required.

All Medium

Acrylic, Watercolor and Oil Painting

Fridays from 9:30am - 11:30am

From beginners to experienced painters, all skill levels are welcome. Instructor led every Friday 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th. Contact Seekonk Human Services to register. The cost is $3 for residents and $5 for non-residents due upon registration. Class members need to bring their own supplies and a supply list is available.

Podiatry Clinic

Wed, April 1, 2026 - 10:00am2:00pm

Dr. Lechan provides monthly podiatry clinics. An appointment is required. Items needed are primary doctor’s name, date of last doctor’s visit, summary of last visit, and list of medications. *The fee for the appointment is $35.00. Paid by cash or check. Call our office to make an appointment.

Women’s Lunch

• Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at 11:30am at La Familia, 431 Winthrop Street, Taunton

• Wednesday, May 6, 2026 at 11:30am at Tavern In the Square, 228 Washington Street, Attleboro

This group meets the 1st Wednesday of every month. Everything is Dutch treat. If you are interested in joining for good food and good conversation, while supporting our local restaurants, please call the office. Cash payment is preferred. Preregistration is required. Preregistration is required by the Monday before the luncheon.

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Blood Pressure & Glucose Clinic

Wed, April 15, 2026 - 9:00am11:00am

Join us for our free monthly blood pressure and glucose screenings. Walk-ins welcome. Provided by Seekonk’s Public Health Nurse.

Let’s Learn Together!

Tuesday, April 28, 2026 at 2:30pm

Learn from Experience: Discover GetSetUp

Discover GetSetUp, a free online learning platform featuring live, interactive classes led by presenters age 55+. From technology and wellness to hobbies and lifelong learning, GetSetUp offers engaging sessions designed to build skills, spark curiosity, and foster connection. Join us to see how easy it is to get started and find classes that fit your interests, all free with your Seekonk Library card. Bring your library card and email address to get started. Preregistration is required.

Indoor Cornhole

Mondays at 10:30am

Come play cornhole on Monday mornings. All are welcome. Preregistration is required.

Backgammon & Checkers

Tuesdays at 2:00pm

Players move their checkers around the board according to rolls of the dice and the first player to get all their checkers off is the winner. The fun comes from hitting and blocking your opponent’s checkers to impede their progress. This is a game of odds, calculation, patterns, and vision. Whether you are a seasoned Backgammon player or would like to learn how to play, please join us! To win a game of checkers, you must jump your checkers over all your opponent’s pieces or block their pieces so they can no longer make a move. Preregistration is required.

Learning Mahjong

Thursdays - 10:00am - 12:00pm

Have you ever been mesmerized by the clinking of Mahjong tiles or the camaraderie of players around a table? Learning Mahjong is more than just mastering a game - it’s about embracing a rich tradition and connecting with others. So, why not come to our Senior Center to start this exciting journey and dive into this centuries-old game of skill and strategy. Preregistration is required.

Tuesday Luncheon at 12:00pm

Seekonk Human Services has partnered with The Hamilton Diner to offer weekly lunches! Lunches will cost $7 for residents

and $8 for nonresidents. The menu will be available at the office and on Facebook. On the last Tuesday of each month, we will be celebrating Seekonk Senior’s birthday. On your birth month you will only pay $2.00 for that lunch (Seekonk residents only).

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 April menu is available at our office and on our Facebook page.

Mother’s Day Ice Cream Social

Monday, May 4, 2026 at 2:00pm

Let’s celebrate Mother’s Day with an ice cream social! Come on down to enjoy some ice cream and good company. This event is open to all! Seekonk women are FREE. Men and non-residents are $2. Preregistration is required and opens April 15.

Seekonk Veterans’ Coffee Hour

Monday, May 11, 2026 at 2:00pm

Come and join Seekonk’s Veterans Services Officer, James LaFlame, for our Coffee Hour. The event is for our Veterans to have some coffee and dessert, network with other local veterans, learn about services and programs available to you as a veteran, and enjoy great company. If you are interested in coming to this activity, please call us to register.

Silver Tea

Wed, May 13, 2026 at 12:00 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 Human Services, 540 Arcade Avenue. Hosted by Seekonk Human Services & Funded by Friends of Friends Community Services Inc.

Limited Seating Available

*Seekonk Residents Only*

*Reservation required*

*Sign-up starts Wednesday, April 8, 2026*

Presentation about Mosquitos

Monday, May 18, 2026 at 2:00pm

Join us on Monday for a presentation hosted by Lisa Valente, RN, CDOE and presented by Priscilla Matton M.S. with Bristol County Mosquito. The Bristol County Mosquito Control Project monitors and reduces mosquito populations in the county through surveillance, water management, biological

and chemical controls. Information will be provided on the mosquito’s life cycle, habitat, West Nile virus, and EEE. Control measures and guidance on how to prevent mosquito bites and breeding around your property will be discussed. Preregistration is required and opens April 15.

Book Club

Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 10:00am

Come join the discussion of, The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau by Kristin Harmel. A historical fiction novel that follows Colette, a morally driven jewel thief, as she uncovers family secrets tied to World War II and a long-lost bracelet. The group will be led with discussion questions, but feel free to bring you own Preregistration is required.

A Musical Journey Through the Years

By Tommy Rull

Wed, May 20, 2026 at 1:00pm

Take a walk down memory lane. Enjoy the music of Frank Sinatra, Neil Diamond, Kenny Rogers, Paul Anka, Barry Manilow, Elvis Presley, Perry Como, Lou Rawls, Engelbert Humperdinck and many more. *This program is Funded by a grant from the Seekonk Cultural Council. Registration is required and opens April 15.

Vini Ames

Wed, May 27, 2026 at 1:00pm

Vini Ames has delighted audiences for more than forty years. His zest for performing is as strong today as it was when he first joined a rock band in the 1970’s. Vini Ames will entertain with singing for listening or dancing pleasure, comedy, impersonations, and audience participation. Preregistration is required and opens April 15.

Charles Riverboat & Encore Casino

Wednesday, June 17, 2026

$131 Per Person (including driver gratuity)

• Your Motorcoach Will Depart:

• 7:30am –540 Arcade Avenue, Seekonk

• Approximate Return At 5:15pm Encore Boston Harbor and Charles Riverboat Company has teamed up to create the ultimate cruise and play package. A 90-minute tour departs from the Cambridge Side Mall, cruises along the Charles River, out through the locks and Boston Harbor. The group gets dropped off directly at the casino’s dock around 11:00am and everyone is given $15 in slot play. Lunch is on your own. Departure from Casino is scheduled for 4:00pm. Full payment due upon registration. NO REFUNDS within 30 days of departure. *Casino package subject to change at the discretion of the casino *

Seekonk Fire Department

Senior SAFE Program

Senior SAFE is a program that supports fire and life safety education for seniors. Education is key to improving the safety of seniors at home. What we do? (1) provide and install smoke and CO alarms, (2) provide and install lock boxes, (3) Provide and install blue house numbers, (4) bucket brigade – provide salt/sand mix for home use, (5) file of life – provide a medical information packet. Who’s qualified? Seekonk residents 65+ who own or permanently live in their home. For more information about what we do and resources available, contact any Human Services employee or email SAFE@SeekonkFire-MA.gov or Klaprade@ SeekonkFire-MA.gov

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.

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

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.

Exercise Classes

Mondays

Movement & Meditation 10am

Strength & Cardio 1pm

Tuesdays

Drums Alive 9am

Wednesdays

Stability and Balance 8:30am

Drums Alive 9:30am

Thursdays

Mat Exercise 9am

Movement & Meditation 10am

Fridays

Dance Cardio 9:15am

Tai Chi 10:30am

*All activities are subject to pre-registration

Games

Play a favorite or learn something new!

• Canasta - Mondays at 11am. A card game of the Rummy family

• Backgammon & Checkers - Tuesdays at 2pm.

• Hi-Low Jack (Pitch) - Tues & Thurs at 1pm. Win the game by having the highest card played in the trump suit

• Mahjong - Wed at 1pm. Mahjong is a game of skill and chance that originated in China

• Cribbage - Thurs at 11am. The first person to peg 121 points at the end of the board is the winner

• BINGO - Thurs at 1pm. Regular games $1.00 for 6 games. Specials $2.00 per game. A game of chance played with cards having numbered squares corresponding to numbers drawn at random

The center is open Monday -Thursday 8:15am - 4:00pm and Friday 8:15am12:00pm. Come and enjoy the activities and companionship at your center. Join our email list! Things are changing 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 Zoom and virtual programs. * 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.

Seaconke: The First Frontier

By Michael Markley

The History of Seekonk does not begin with incorporation in 1812, with the deeded purchase in 1641, or even when Ousemequin offered Roger Williams shelter and a place to live in 1636. History is defined as:” a chronological record of significant events.1 The history of Seaconke begins under thousands of feet of ice, and “billions”2 of megatons of weight.

The Laurentide Ice Sheet stretched across most of North America, from the Rockies to the Atlantic, from the Arctic to New Jersey3 . Some 50,000 years ago climate change, caused by global warming of the atmosphere. The result was Glaciers around the world, began a slow recession north. A glacier is the Earths largest force of nature. Glaciers move slowly, deliberately with creeks, cracks, cries and rumbles. The Laurentide Ice sheets recession tore a hole

that filled with glacier water creating a lake that later succumbed to rising ocean water and created what we call today Narraganset Bay4. On the east side of the bay the glaciers recession stripped the land flat forming a desolate great plain.

Over time, the great plain flourished due to prevailing winds, birds dispersing seeds, and a jet stream supplying essential water. The lakes and bay became inhabited by fish and various aquatic species. Subsequently, small animals arrived, further shaping and cultivating the landscape. Large animal herds—such as elk on the plains, mammoths in the forests, and mastodons in the swamps— contributed significantly to the region’s development. Eventually, humans, the apex predators, entered the great plain and influenced the environment.

The early people known in native history as the ancient ones, were resourceful and curious, and did not come to stay; they followed the game. Adapting to the transforming world around them, they fashioned tools from stone and bone. The ancient ones survived largely on protein; they followed animal migrations and fished in the brackish waters. Over time, their presence shaped the environment, leaving behind traces of campfires and carved stones that hint at their lives among rising trees and deepening waters. The stage was set for thousands of years of change, as the legacy of ice, water, and humankind became woven into the land’s unfolding tapestry.

The Charles H Reed Archeological Collection

Dr. Lisa Daft Providing comprehensive dental care in Seekonk, MA.

Dr. Gian Calandrelli

Dr. Lisa Daft and Dr. Jared Stubbs Are

Dr. Chris Vanderpool

The Reed family had owned a Farm located where the Runnins River flows into the estuary that begins the Barrington River, since the 1600’s. Charles H. Reed collected on his farm Native artifacts from 1915-1940. He collected 772 pieces in total. From 1969 through 1974 the Reed farm became an Archaeological dig site5. Some of the collection and the records are held by the Seekonk Library6.

Charles H. Reed collection bears witness to first people to settle the Great Plain.

1. Palio Period – Archaeologists refer to the earliest people of this era as Palio Indians. These groups moved through southern New England around 12,500 years ago, living as nomadic hunters and gatherers. The Wamsutta site in Canton, Massachusetts, was dated to about 12,000 years ago.

2. Archaic Period – As the temperature continued to warm, a wider variety of foods were available to gather. The Charles Reed dig site in Seekonk, Ma. is a typical Archaic site. People continually occupied the area around 100 Acre Cove, the Palmer, Barrington, and Runnins rivers. The Reed site dates between 3,000 – 10,000 years ago.

NATIVE PLANT SALE

Annual Spring Planting Sale

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• River Birch or Yellow Birch

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• Common & Vernal Witchhazels

• Red or White Dogwood

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Also available – Selected Nut Trees & Edible Berries Chestnut & Hazelnut trees – Grape Vines and Blue Berries – PawPaw Trees

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3. Woodland Period – breaks into three separate periods of development.

Early Woodlands (3,000-1500 years ago) saw permanent settlements and tribal communities emerging.

Middle Woodlands (1800-1200 years ago) - Agriculture arrived from the southwest about 1,000 years ago, with corn, beans, and squash; the ("Three Sisters") became dietary staples. This improved the nutrition of the inhabitants and reduced dependence on protein.

Late Woodlands (1300 to 400 years ago) The spread of Algonquin-speaking people out of the Great Lakes region. They introduced a common language, aiding communication, trade, and cooperation among people, groups, and tribes. They traveled along rivers east southeast routes to the ocean and the first frontier. This period saw the development of more sophisticated tools and weapons. The bow and arrow replaced the spear as the primary weapon and hunting tool, 750 to 1500 years ago7

Community

The Reed collection is archeological proof that around 9,000 years ago, during the Archaic Period, individuals began traversing and subsequently settled on the great plain, situated within a dense forest. This "great plain" consisted of grasslands devoid of trees and

Part of the C.H. Reed Collection Seekonk Library

AI (Gemini) depiction of a native village

was approximately 50 to 80 feet above sea level, encompassing an area of roughly 100 square miles (10 miles by 10 miles). Numerous rivers and streams crossed this plain, ultimately draining into the “great river” or the Bay.

After settling in southern New England, clans and bands merged forming governments called tribes. Larger tribes dominated over subtribes. Tribe formed federations and confederations for strong dominance over and area. Including inter-tribal diplomacy, protection of hunting grounds and borders. Tribes in Southern New England had religious, educational, and military institutions; They had an economy based on agriculture and craftsmanship of goods that could be traded. They used the existing network of trails and waterways for transporting goods and people.

On the Great Plain the “Three Sisters” could be grown in mass. Portion of the crop yield could be stored in protected inland facilities to be available in the winter, and part could be shipped around the territory by waterway. The convergence of the ten-mile river and the great river became a place to move products and people. The ten-mile flowed ten miles inland and from the great river. On the great river cargo could be moved north almost to Woonsocket hills, west through the Moshassuck River, and south into the bay which could reach coastal tribal villages.

What is in a Name

The Algonquin language and its dialects are spoken and not written. They are driven by interpretation. For example, the word tree is tugq. The tug = the sound axe, a common tool or weapon hitting a tree making a commonly known sound This became the universal name for a tree. A tree would be called Mehtugq (singular) and Mehtugquash (plural) for many trees or forests8 .

The Great Plain, the village, and the Great River all shared the same name, derived from the most populous animal in the region—the black goose. Where the 10-mile river meets the Great River, there's an estuary containing an island. Long before native peoples settled there, this area was inhabited by migrating geese, especially Branta Canadensis, commonly known as the Canadian Black Goose9

The rivers that flowed into the great river and their estuaries provided a source of food; the great plain provided ample space to land. This location served as an annual stopover for the black goose during their migration south and north. The Native population observed the birds, noted their presence by both sound and scent, and witnessed the sky darken upon their unified departure. In his work, "A Key into the Language of America,"10 Roger Williams remarks that the area was specifically named after these birds. Leonard Bliss further explains that, as Indigenous peoples did not have a written language, all place names that have been preserved originate from early colonial records11

Tribal history was stored in various ways. Being that there was no written language, they kept an oral history housed in the memory of people that were trained to keep it. History was stored in the traditions, and practices they kept. Many ceremonies featuring descriptive dance were regularly held. They had Wampum belts, long belts designed to keep their history alive. Passed down through generations, Wampum belts used wampum, purple and white shells to tell their story12. Their oral traditions are based on their known truth that they were always here, that our community today has always been their home.

Thus, their remembered history begins here in this community. It begins when they become a tribe. Science tells us that differing people made a great journey. But that is not remembered nor is it a part of the native history and traditions.

The story of our community is epic. It is a story of people opening a frontier in search of a better life. The First Frontier became that place. Through millennia of time the First Frontier has become a home to people native and alike, people that seek to live their best life. The First Frontier is made up of a great river, a great plain, and a vital village that carries the name “Seaconke”.

The author may be contact with any questions through email at mpm9566@gmail.com

Bibliography:

1. Mirriam Webster (2026) Merriam Webster, Inc.

2. Laurentide Ice Sheet by Wikipedia Wikipedia.com

3. McGraw Hill Dictionary of Scientific & Technical Terms (2003) by McGraw Hill Companies, Inc.

4. History of Narragansett Bay by Save The Bay https://savebay.org

5. Massachusetts Historical Commission 1969-1972, Rhode Island College 1972-1974

6. Seekonk Library Seekonk 410 Newman Ave 02771

7. Charles H. Reed Collection Seekonk Library 410 Newman Ave Seekonk, Ma. 02771

8. Donald “Three Bears” Fisher Seaconke Wampanoag Elder

9. Canadian Geese (2026) Google Google.com

10. A Key into the Language of America Roger Williams 1643 Ch. 15 & 18

11. Early Rehoboth Leonard Bliss, Jr (1836) Ch. 1 pg. 1

12. This Land Is Their Land David J Silverman (2019) pg.36

AI (Gemini) Depiction of Canadian Black Geese landing

AI (Gemini) Depiction of the Seaconke native village

People In The News

Michelle Salisbury of Seekonk High School was recently recognized by the Attleboro Chapter Daughters of American Revolution (DAR) as Outstanding Teacher of American History for the 20252026 school year. This award is given annually to a notable local, full-time teacher of American History or related fields in grades 5-12, who fosters a spirit of patriotism, has an inclusive knowledge of American History, and shares it readily with others while securing America’s future through better education and understanding. Mrs. Salisbury has consistently exhibited these qualities throughout her 25 years teaching at Seekonk High.

As a dedicated teacher and life-long learner, she has continually updated her knowledge and skills beyond a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education and History from Rhode Island College. She has earned two Masters degrees from Providence College, and is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Integrative Studies at Northeastern University.

As an exceptional educator, Mrs. Salisbury has made it her mission to lead by example and teach her students the relevance of American ideals and values – liberty, democracy, equality, individual rights, and civic responsibility, to help shape informed, engaged, and contributing citizens. She demonstrates the ability to connect historical content to the complexities of today’s world, make history meaningful and help students relate past and present events to their own experiences. She provides all resources necessary to ensure her students are active and successful learners. Mrs. Salisbury encourages students to think critically, speak their minds and consider others’ opinions. She is a consistent role model for her students, instilling examples of what it means to have a positive attitude, and preserve and engage in hard work, and thereby, be a responsible citizen.

Michelle has been described by others “as an individual who exudes passion for the field of history, is extremely talented at bringing history alive and holds high standards for all students and colleagues in their responsibility of being valued citizens, serving their community.”

As a result of Mrs. Salisbury’s life-long achievements and dedication to the teaching of American History, she has been also been named Massachusetts’ Outstanding Teacher of American History and will also be honored at the DAR State Conference.

This distinction of being named the state’s Outstanding Teacher makes her eligible to compete at the national level.

Photo: (from left to right) is Sylvia Day, Historian, Michelle Salisbury, Outstanding Teacher of American History and Jill Mathieu, Regent of the Attleboro Chapter DAR.

University News

UMass Amherst Announces Fall 2025 Dean’s List

Amherst, Mass. (March 6, 2026) - The following students were named to the Fall 2025 Dean’s List at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

Rehoboth: Lindsay Mae Allard, Emma Elizabeth Bonin, Sarah Claire Charbonneau, Kristin Angela Corvi, Andrew Lucas Pimentel DaCruz, Laura Kathleen DeGirolamo, Joseph Eugene DiGirolamo, McKenna Kiley Garcia, Kate Elizabeth Moitoso, Sydney Kathrine Pestana, Graeme Liam Sullivan, Avery Thomas, Alex Raj Verma

Seekonk: Ethan Joseph Albuquerque, Noah Roger Beausoleil, Logan Michael Bukoff, Elizabeth May Burleson, Kylie Logan Charron, Ivan Chen, Spencer Deering, Bria Rae Dunphy, Ava Frances Gardner, Olivia Ashley Halajko, Jack Logan LaSalle, Vedaant Malhotra, Madison Jolie Ohlgren, Milena Gomes Pedreira, Lukas Roodbeen, Noah Sohby Tadros, Jonathan James Tawa, Reiley Erin Terry

UMass Amherst College of Engineering

Dean’s List

Dean’s list honors for the Fall 2025 semester for Sarah Charbonneau of Rehoboth who is about to finish her senior year at UMass Amherst college of Engineering.

Purdue University Fall Dean’s List

Avelyse Odle from Seekonk made the Fall term Dean’s List and Semester Honors in the college of Engineering at Purdue University in Indiana.

UTampa Student, Landyn Andrade, of Rehoboth, Earned Dean’s List Honors

Tampa, FL -- Landyn Andrade, of Rehoboth, earned dean’s list honors at the University of Tampa for the Fall 2025 semester. Andrade is a Freshman majoring in Sport Management BS.

Local Emmanuel College Students Make

Dean’s

List

Boston, MA -- In recognition of their outstanding academic achievement, Emmanuel College has named more than 950 students to the Dean’s List for the Fall 2025 semester. The following local students were named to the Dean’s List:

• Nicholas Ware, of Rehoboth, majoring in Biology.

• Olivia Hardro, of Seekonk, majoring in Marketing.

Spencer Deering Elected to Membership into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi

Baton Rouge, LA -- Spencer Deering of Seekonk, Massachusetts, was recently elected to membership into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society, at University of Massachusetts. Deering is among approximately 20,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year. Membership is by invitation only and requires nomination and approval by a chapter. Only the top 10 percent of seniors and 7.5 percent of juniors are eligible for membership. Graduate students in the top 10 percent of the number of candidates for graduate degrees may also qualify, as do faculty, professional staff and alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction.

Seekonk, MA

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Gilded Tomato Company® Awarded the Highest Points in the US Catering Division by the Green Restaurant Association

At a time when sustainability often feels like a buzzword, Gilded Tomato Company® is quietly setting a higher standard—one woodfired dish at a time. This award-winning social enterprise has earned a coveted 4 Star Certified Green Caterer™ designation from the Green Restaurant Association, a national nonprofit that has guided restaurants toward environmental responsibility since 1990. With more than 58 verified environmental practices and over 522 GreenPoints™, Gilded Tomato isn’t just participating in the sustainability movement—it’s leading it.

But what sets this New England-based caterer apart isn’t just certification. It’s how seamlessly sustainability is woven into every aspect of the experience.

Sustainability That’s More Than Skin Deep

At the heart of Gilded Tomato Company’s® operation is a commitment to thoughtful, tangible change. Solar panels generate 74% of the company’s energy, significantly reducing its carbon footprint. Transportation emissions are minimized through the use of an electric vehicle, employee carpool incentives, and two on-site EV charging stations.

COME JOIN US!

Even the smallest details reflect intention. A Glenwood 1930 Taunton stove has been repurposed for drying herbs, while handpainted antique trays are given a second life for use in daily operations—proof that sustainability here is as creative as it is practical.

The menu follows suit. With a strong emphasis on plant-forward dining—27% vegetarian and 10% vegan offerings—guests are invited to enjoy meals that are both indulgent and environmentally conscious.

Behind the scenes, the company’s waste diversion efforts are just as impressive. Through on-site composting and comprehensive recycling programs, up to 90% of waste is kept out of landfills.

Where Fire Meets Freshness

If sustainability is the foundation of Gilded Tomato Company® , flavor is its soul. Through mobile wood-fired catering, the team transforms events into immersive experiences where flames flicker, ingredients sizzle, and guests gather around live fire. Much of what’s served is grown just steps away on the historic c.1845 WhittakerPeck Farm in Rehoboth, Massachusetts, where organic produce, herbs, honey, and edible flowers are cultivated using regenerative practices.

A Hidden Gem for Intimate Gatherings

Beyond catering, the company offers a farmstead tipi venue for intimate celebrations just 20 minutes from Providence.

Centered around a 26-foot Lakota-style tipi, the setting pairs rustic charm with thoughtful details—a cozy cabin, outdoor bar, and even a vintage canoe filled with chilled beverages. As evening falls, a couple of Cowboy Cauldrons® brings guests together for open-fire cooking and fireside s’mores.

With space for smaller groups, it’s ideal for rehearsal dinners, milestones, and gatherings focused on connection.

Dining Under the Stars

Here, meals become experiences. Menus might include raspberry or blueberry chipotle wings, grass-fed filet mignon with chimichurri, roasted street corn with lime and parmesan, and woodfired pizzas topped with everything from pepperoni with hot honey to lobster, mushrooms, or fresh garden vegetables—crafted by a culinary team that includes a James Beard Award nominee alongside faculty from Johnson & Wales University’s Culinary and Food Innovation Technology programs.

There are also grazing boards with cheeses, charcuterie, fruit, and honey, along with fresh salads, fire-roasted pineapple, and warm desserts like shortcakes, cobblers, and dessert pizzas.

Everything is cooked over wood fire using seasonal ingredients, giving the food a simple, rich flavor that feels both comforting and special. The atmosphere stays relaxed and welcoming while still feeling like a true event.

The Gilded Tomato crew, bringing fire, flavor, and passion to every gathering

EvEnts & ActivitiEs

Spaghetti Dinner for the Seekonk Theatre Booster Club

Thursday, April 9 at 6 PM

About: Join the Seekonk Theatre Booster Club for a fun night of theatre entertainment and a delicious spaghetti dinner while supporting our student theatre program. Proceeds help fund sets, costumes, and future productions. Dinner includes spaghetti and meatballs with sauce, bread, dessert and drinks. Bring your family and friends and join us in supporting the arts and celebrating the talented students of Seekonk Theatre. There will be live performances by students!

Please email seekonktheatrebooster@gmail.com with any food allergies or dietary restrictions.

When: Thursday, April 9 at 6 PM ET

Where: Seekonk Congregational Church | 600 Fall River Ave Seekonk, MA 02771

Cost: $15 adult / $10 child

Registration: https://bit.ly/4bOmfD9 or buy tickets at the door

Genealogy Presentation by Bristol Chapter of Massachusetts Society of Genealogists, Inc.

Saturday, April 18th

The Bristol Chapter of the Massachusetts Society of Genealogists, Inc. will hold its monthly business meeting on Saturday, April 18th followed by a presentation beginning at Noon. This presentation is free and Open to the Public.

Catherine “Casey” Zahn will present in-person “Using Pension Records”.

Pension records are a fun way to learn more about our families and their military service. Discovering your ancestor’s service can help you discover their life events and new connections in their FAN club. This program will focus on pension records available to researchers online and strategies for finding records after 1900.

Catherine “Casey” Zahn is a retired teacher. Born in CT, she began the Central Jersey Genealogical Club and was a past trustee for the Genealogical Society of New Jersey. She wrote two books on teaching children genealogy and served as the program chair for the Federation of Genealogical Societies Conference in Philadelphia. She often speaks throughout the region for genealogical societies and libraries. Casey currently serves as a governor for the Connecticut Society of Genealogists and works daily on her New England roots.

Please join us at Noon in-person at the Somerset Public Library, 1464 County St., Somerset, MA 02726 or virtually via ZOOM.

Those who wish to attend virtually need to pre-register at https:// tinyurl.com/BristolApril2026 after which you will receive an email confirmation with instructions for logging into this session. Do not share what you receive. It is unique to you. Closed Captioning is available for this presentation.

For more information contact bristol@msoginc.org.

A schedule of Bristol Chapter presentations is available at https://msoginc.org/chapter/bristol/ and https://www.facebook. com/msoginc

Soccer Tournament

Saturday, April 18th

Rich Weinrebe, Men’s Soccer Head Coach at The University of New Hampshire and former Captain of the EPHS Soccer Team has organized a Northeast Spring Cup for several Northeast NCAA Division1 Colleges. For the many interested soccer fans, on April 18th, there will be 4 games to be played at the new Centreville Bank Stadium in Pawtucket, home to the already successful Rhode Island Football Club. Admission to all of the games is free. The stadium will also have some concession stands open. This will be a great family day. Come for 1 game or all of them! Starting times will be announced shortly.

Menopause 101

Thursday, April 23rd at 6pm at Seekonk COA

Join us for a presentation hosted by Seekonk Public Health Nurse, Lisa Valente, RN, CDOE, and presented by Certified Menopause Coach, Kim Becher, BSW, from Women’s Seasons of Wellness on Thursday, April 23rd at 6pm at the Seekonk Council on Aging Bldg., located at 540 Arcade Avenue Seekonk, MA. Learn about perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause, the related health impacts, and options to help you thrive during this stage of life. Preregistration is required by calling 508-336-8772.

Spring Clean-Up

Friday, April 24, 2026 10 am to noon

124 Bay State Rd, Rehoboth, MA

Join us at Blanding Public Library for FREE SHREDDING and Information on various Spring Home Clean-Up Topics

SPONSORS

• Understand Your Home Value

• Mark Mariano - Oakhill Engineering - 508-252-4363 -Does an ADU Make Sense on my Property?

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• Clean Up/ Protect Your Home

• Luke Travis - 508-676-3333 Is your Estate in Order?

• Dave Raymondo - 508-965-3645 - Bearingstar Insurance - Do you Have the Right Insurance Mix? For Information, Call Cathy Edington on 508-245-3499 or email cathye@mellogroup.com FREE ICE CREAM

Carpenter Museum to Host Genealogy Group Meeting

Saturday, April 25th at 10AM

The Carpenter Museum will host a Genealogy Group meeting on Saturday at 10 am on April 25. We will review and offer hands-on experience transcribing Revolutionary War Pension Files Transcriptions. All are welcome to attend our meetings. Be sure to bring your laptop.

The Chorus of East Providence to Perform Their Spring Concert

Saturday, April 25, 2026, at 7:00 pm and Sunday, April 26, 2026, at 2:00 pm

The Chorus of East Providence will perform their Spring concert, THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC, for the community this April that promises their audiences musical entertainment and a celebration of the joy of singing. Under the direction of Beth Armstrong, the repertoire will include many of her favorite songs by various composers as the chorus honors her 19 years of outstanding musical direction. Beth Armstrong will continue to delight her audiences with her commentary about the various songs and their composers.

The concert will be performed on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at 7:00 pm and Sunday, April 26, 2026, at 2:00 pm at the Performing Arts Center at East Providence High School, 2000 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence, RI, 02914. Tickets are $20.00 for adults, $17.00 for seniors. Children under 12 are complimentary. Tickets can be purchased at a discount prior to the concert through chorus members or through the link on the Chorus of East Providence website chorusofep.org. There will be a 50/50 raffle. Donations of non-perishable food items are gladly accepted and will be presented to the Townie Food Pantry.

The chorus members hope that you will attend her final concert and pay tribute to her talent as a musical director. She is truly the queen of community choruses!

Saturday May 9th, 9:45 AM – 1:15 PM at the Taunton Conference Center

For over 25 years this special event has offered grandparents the opportunity to chat and share with others who understand the unique joys and challenges of having an Autistic grandchild. It’s also an opportunity to hear speaker(s) with expertise in Autism discuss a particular topic.

This is FREE for grandparents who live in our SE Mass services region, OR whose grandchild lives within our service region.

Our Topic for the morning, by popular demand, Autism in the Pre-teen/Teen Years!!

Even if your grandchild is still young, they do grow up so fast!

This is something you won’t want to miss!

With our speakers: Mary Fox, Co-Executive Director of CAR and Sarah Walkden, Program Coordinator for the CAR GAP program.

Adolescence brings many changes, and grandparents often play an important role in supporting autistic youth during this stage of development. Our speakers will explore key topics including puberty, evolving social relationships, and emotional regulation. Participants will gain practical strategies, increased understanding, and tools to help support their grandchild and to strengthen their connection, communication, with them during the teen years. Even if your grandchild is still young, the information presented will be helpful in the years to come!

Schedule

9:45 – 10:15 ~ Arrive, coffee and chat with other grandparents

10:30 – Noon ~ Presentation with time for Q & A

Noon – 1:15 ~ Buffet lunch, meet and talk with our speakers!

Lunch menu: broccoli cheddar soup, a salad buffet with grilled steak, desert and lemonade

What grandparents have to say

• “There was so much more information than I could imagine... It was amazing”

• “Being together with other grandparents, we share and learn! I love it!!”

• “It’s great to get together with other grandparents and discuss what works and what doesn’t”

• Register via our website www.community-autism-resources.com under the “events” tab

Questions contact Jan Randall at jrandall@communityautism.org

About our speakers

Mary Fox serves as Co-Executive Director of Community Autism Resources (CAR) and brings more than 15 years of experience supporting autistic teens and adults. As a mental health therapist, the majority of her clinical work focuses on neurodivergent adolescents and adults. She is certified in PEERS® and has specialized training in sexuality education for autistic individuals.

continued on page 46...

Sarah Walkden is a Program Coordinator at Community Autism Resources (CAR), where she has been a dedicated advocate for the neurodiverse community since 2018. Sarah holds a Bachelor’s in Psychology with a concentration in Gender Studies, providing a unique academic lens to her work in social development. Currently leading CAR’s social skills groups and the Gottschall Access Program, she is PEERS certified and has specialized training in sexuality education for neurodiverse adults. By combining her background in psychology with her expertise in puberty, dating, and emotional regulation, Sarah offers families evidence-based strategies to navigate the complexities of the teenage years with confidence.

Seekonk Knights of Columbus

Charity Event Yard Sale

Saturday, May 16

Sellers Wanted for Large Yard Sale

Be part of the largest and longest-running yard sale in the Seekonk area.

For over 40 years, the Seekonk Knights of Columbus has been sponsoring this annual charity event.

Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 8 am to 12 noon at 532 Arcade Avenue, Seekonk, MA 02771.

Rain date: Sunday, May 17, 2026, 8 am to 12 noon.

We have 30 outdoor sites available at $25 each. Sites are 15 ft x 30 ft that will accommodate a vehicle and pop-up canopy.

Don’t hesitate. Last year was a sellout. To reserve your site, call 508.336.7952. Visit Facebook for more details.

From Edinburgh to London: Book Lovers’ 2026 Literary Journey Through the UK

August 8–17, 2026

A new cultural travel opportunity organized by a local librarian will take book lovers from Scotland to England in the summer of 2026. Edinburgh to London: A Book Lovers’ Journey, scheduled for August 8–17, 2026 will span ten days and highlight the literary and historical landscapes of the United Kingdom. Participants will begin in Edinburgh, Scotland, a city recognized worldwide for its literary heritage and vibrant book scene, before heading south to explore York, Jane Austen’s Bath, Stratford-upon-Avon—birthplace of William Shakespeare—and the prehistoric monument of Stonehenge.

The program, coordinated in conjunction with EF Go Ahead Tours, concludes in London, where travelers will experience the capital’s rich blend of history, architecture, and literary traditions. Travelers who wish to join a welcoming community of like-minded book lovers—sharing their passion for reading, culture, and discovery while exploring some of Britain’s most iconic destinations—are invited! For details, contact Suzanne Larson at SLarsonLMS@gmail.com

Club News & ANNOUNCEMENTS

Rehoboth Garden Club April 2026

The Rehoboth Garden Club is pleased to announce that applications are now available for our annual scholarship. To qualify, the student must be entering college in the fall of 2026, or be a returning college student, majoring in Agriculture, Horticulture, Floriculture, Water Resources, Forestry, Arboriculture, or a related Environmental Science.

The application deadline is May 15, 2026. The names of the recipients will be announced in the summer of 2026. The awards will be presented at the completion of the fall semester, for the 2027 spring semester.

For an online application, email Linda Murphy at ljmurphy47bell@yahoo.com, or for a mailed application call Mary Louise Pacheco at 508-252-9768.

April will be a busy month for the Rehoboth Garden Club. On Saturday April 11th members will clean up the Carpenter Museum herb garden as well as the Goff Hall and Blanding Library gardens and prepare them for the growing season. On Saturday April 25th, the gardens will be mulched. Community members who would like to help out will be warmly welcomed.

Arbor Day 2026 will be celebrated on Saturday April 25th with a tree planting on the Francis Farm property at 11:30 AM. The community is invited to attend.

The celebration of the 92nd Annual Meeting and luncheon of the RGC will take place in the President’s dining room at Swan Point Cemetery on Monday April 27th. The Director of Horticulture Kelly Perry will speak about the cemetery’s history as one of the foremost garden cemeteries in the United States, as well as its notable landscape, ponds and artistic monuments.

Save the Date!

The Rehoboth Garden Club’s Annual Plant Sale Fundraiser will be held on Saturday May 2nd from 9 AM to 1 PM at Francis Farm in the Miller Pavilion.

Hornbine School Museum Volunteers Needed to Teach at Our One-Room Schoolhouse

Our historic one-room schoolhouse is looking for volunteer teachers. If you enjoy working with children, sharing stories, or keeping local history alive, we’d love to welcome you to our volunteer team. Serving as a volunteer teacher is not about memorizing dates or delivering lectures. It is about giving visiting students a chance to experience education as it once was. You don’t need a teaching background to participate. What matters most is enthusiasm, reliability, and a willingness to engage with young learners. We provide all the materials, sample lessons, and historical information you’ll need. Visits typically take place on weekday mornings to early afternoons during the school year.

In the past, hundreds of students have visited our schoolhouse to learn how children once studied, played, and built community in a single-room classroom. They arrive curious and excited, ready to imagine themselves as students from another era. Volunteer teachers help guide that transformation. By leading short lessons, demonstrating historical tools, or simply sharing stories about early schooling, volunteer teachers become the bridge between past and present.

For visiting public school classes, this experience is more than a field trip—it’s a chance to see, hear, and feel what education looked like generations ago. To make these visits truly come alive, we are seeking volunteers who would enjoy teaching in this unique and inspiring setting.

There is something unforgettable about walking into The Hornbine School. The wooden desks, the slate boards, the smell of old books, and the quiet echo of lessons once taught all create a sense of stepping back in time.

Reach out to learn more information: Contact Dawn at HornbineSchool@gmail.com 508-728-4867 or Dave at hglump@comcast. net 508-222-7326 for details

The museum is open from 2 – 4 each 2nd and 4th Sunday of June, July August and September. Search for our WEBSITE by Googling HORNBINESCHOOL. You will also find a link to our FACEBOOK page.

Hornbine Teacher Brenda Sabin

Letter from President of the Seekonk Lions Club

As President of the Seekonk Lions Club, I am proud to share an exciting development that reflects Lions commitment to the health and well-being of our community. Recognizing the urgent and growing need for behavioral health emergency services, our club has made a meaningful donation to support the expansion of a new Emergency Behavioral Health unit at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital Plymouth.

This initiative is more important than ever, as we see rising numbers of mental health crises, substance-use episodes, and emotional distress affecting individuals and families across our area. To address this, the new unit will more than double the current capacity, offering 16 dedicated rooms to provide safe, compassionate care for those in need. Of particular importance are the 8 beds reserved specifically for pediatric patients experiencing a behavioral health crisis, ensuring the areas’ youngest community members receive the specialized support they deserve.

Contributing to this expanded facility is a collaborative effort, with the Lions Club of Plymouth and Lions District 33S working together to make a profound impact. Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) has committed to match, dollar for dollar, the first $75,000 raised in support of the new Emergency Behavioral Health initiative.

When combined, this generous gift will total $150,000—doubling the impact of every dollar contributed. Lions’ clubs across the district are encouraged to contribute to this initiative. This bold investment underscores the Lions’ dedication to supporting mental health and ensuring those in need receive compassionate care and assistance.

This project is more than just an expansion; it’s a lifeline for many. It embodies our Lions Club’s commitment to building healthier, stronger communities where everyone has access to the care they need during their most difficult moments. Fellow Seekonk Lions Club members and I are honored to be part of this effort and look forward to seeing the positive change it will bring.

If you would like to contribute, please go to the Plymouth Lions Website at http:// www.theplymouthlions.org/ by clicking “LCIF Grant”. If you would like to ask any questions, please contact Kevin O’Keefe at (781) 264-5183.

On a personal note, I recently learned of the passing of Dilia M Morgado of Dighton, a longtime supporter of the Lions’ Doug Allan Memorial Fishing Tournament. Dilia, co-owner of the Purple Cow in Seekonk/ Pawtucket with her husband Steven, lost a courageous battle with breast cancer in August 2025.

Dilia and Steven were among the first to support our fishing tournament, often participating with their children and generously donating gift cards for ice cream and Purple Cow garb for prizes. Dilia was always kind, pleasant, and steadfast in her support. My deepest sympathy goes to the Morgado family.

Paul

Seekonk Lions Club Fishing Derby

Patriots Day fishing fun from the Seekonk Lions Club

Paul Buckley President

Save the Date for the Best Fishing Derby Yet!

The Seekonk Lions Club’s Fourteenth Annual Doug Allan Memorial Fishing Tournament is just two weeks away, and we’re excited to invite everyone to join in the fun!

The fun kicks off on Patriots Day, Monday, April 20, 2026, at the Old Grist Mill Pond on RT 114A, Seekonk. The tournament runs from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., and it’s open to all children through high school in the area—so bring the whole family for a morning of fishing, laughter, and community spirit.

Once again, our friends at American Legion Post 311 will be sponsoring the post-competition banquet, held in a cozy hall where anglers can relax, share stories, and enjoy Chick-fil-A sandwiches, cookies, chips, and drinks—perfect fuel for a day of fishing fun.

Don’t have a fishing pole? No worries! Poles will be available for beginners and those trying it for the first time. We’ll have bait, accessories, and “expert” advice from George, the renowned “Fishing Guy,” to help everyone get ready to catch that big one.

continued

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this event is all about having fun, making memories, and celebrating our dear friend Doug Allan’s love of fishing. Best of all, participation is free! Just bring your fishing gear, some bait, say hello to George, and get ready for an exciting morning.

For registration, volunteering, or sponsorship opportunities, please email seekonkfishingtournament@yahoo.com. For the latest updates, visit our website at. https://www.seekonklions.club.

We look forward to seeing you there—let’s make this year’s derby the best one yet!

Spring with the Rehoboth Antiquarian Society

Members of the Rehoboth Antiquarian Society are welcome to join us at the Carpenter Museum (4 Locust Ave.) Saturday May 2nd from 1-3PM for this year’s members only event, What the Rebels Ate: A Colonial Hearth Cooking Demonstration.

The demonstration will be led by reenactor and hearth cooking enthusiast Stacy Booth. She will use our historic kitchen to make authentic 1700’s food for our members to enjoy. As she cooks she will lead us through the history of the meal she is cooking and what the colonists ate both on the field and at home. This will include a look at some local dishes. Attendees will have the chance to help cook as well as taste the prepared foods. We will be joined by the Rehoboth Minute Men.

Our Members Only Event is a thank you to the members of the Rehoboth Antiquarian Society and their continued support. You must be a member in current standing to attend. Admission is free, but pre-registration is required to ensure availability. Register by calling the museum at (508)252-3031 or by reserving a spot on Eventbrite: www.RASmembers.eventbrite.com

The RAS’s annual membership meeting will be the following Wednesday May 6th at Blanding Library (124 Bay State Rd.), 6:30PM. Come enjoy some tea and hear reports from the three pillars of the Society, the Blanding Library, Carpenter Museum, and Arts in the Village. A special guest speaker will end the meeting. Not yet a member of the Rehoboth Antiquarian Society? Membership starts at just $25 a year. Visit our website to join or learn more; www.rehobothantiquarian.org/join .

Lastly, we are now accepting applications for our annual Crafters’ Marketplace craft show. This year’s show is Saturday October 17th. Spaces are $65. We are offering tables and chairs to rent. Find an application at www.rehobothantiquarian.org/crafters-marketplace or pick one up at the Carpenter Museum or Blanding Library.

East Providence/Seekonk Rotary Club Announces Fundraiser To Help Save Butterflies

“Bellies for Butterflies” belly dance event on April 14th to fund wildflower seeds for community to plant EAST PROVIDENCE and SEEKONK (March 26, 2026): The East Providence/Seekonk Rotary Club will hold its “Bellies for Butterflies” fundraising event to raise money to purchase wildflower seeds for the community to plant and save the local butterfly habitat.

“Bellies for Butterflies” will be held from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at the Cape Verdean Progressive Center, 329 Grosvenor Avenue in East Providence. Tickets are $25 pp and a cash bar is available. The event will feature performances by local professional and semi-professional dancers from the community.

Each year, the Rotary Club purchases high-quality wildflower seeds in bulk, to package them into envelopes to pass out to paradegoers at the Riverside Memorial Day Parade on May 25, 2026. A seed-packing event will take place at Raymour & Flanigan Furniture and Mattress Store at 100 Highland Avenue in Seekonk on April 30 from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Volunteers are welcome to attend the BYOB event and complimentary pizza and dessert will be served.

“We are proud to do our part to support Operation: Pollination, a global environmental initiative to help save monarch butterflies and other important plant pollinator species right in our own backyards,” states Betty Galligan, a past president of the East Providence/ Seekonk Rotary Club and belly dancer who created the parade event for her Club in 2021. “Each Memorial Day, our colorful parade contingent grows as we now have more volunteers helping to pass out the seed packets dressed as butterflies, bumble bees and lady bugs. All are welcome to join us to ride or walk along, in costume or not. Although I’d love to see a few batman costumes this year!”

According to Galligan, seventy-five percent of the world’s plant species are dependent on pollinators, such as the monarch butterfly, to survive. Without pollinators, 30 percent of food in grocery stores would disappear.

Each winter, colonies of monarch butterflies gather annually in Mexico and fly to the southern U.S. to lay their eggs on milkweed

plants. Their offspring then flies as far north as Canada to lay their own eggs. After a third generation of butterflies hatches at the end of summer, a fourth “super” generation heads back to Mexico – typically a 6,000-mile round trip journey and the longest known migration of any insect species. Data demonstrates that western U.S. monarchs have undergone a significant decline estimated at more than 95% since the 1980s.

The public is encouraged to plant wildflower seeds in their own backyards and garden spaces to attract butterflies. “Everywhere along their migration route, butterflies need a habitat to survive. If we can improve the habitat in our own community, we can be part of the solution,” states Galligan, whose late mother, a butterfly enthusiast, inspired the project. “Native plants provide nectar that nourishes the butterflies as well as other pollinators such as bumblebees, bats and moths.”

To purchase tickets to “Bellies for Butterflies,” and for more information about The Rotary Club of East Providence/Seekonk, visit: www.epseekonkrotary.org.

Belly dancer Cheryl Kalilia of Rehoboth

Colonial cooking at the Carpenter Museum

RAS Awards Scholarships

It was with pleasure the Rehoboth Antiquarian Society recently awarded its 2025-2026 scholarship to two very worthy candidates: Kathryn Nelson and Estelle Rampelt.

Katie Nelson, an avid swimmer, lives with her family in Riverside, RI. She is a senior at SUNY Potsdam majoring in Archaeological Studies with interest in Anthropology and Forensic Studies. To further her studies, Katie took part in a dig at a monastery in Cerne Abbas, England and another at a homestead in Lake Placid, New York. Last summer Katie was involved in a research project that researched and located 147 graves of Revolutionary War veterans buried at the Newman Cemetery in East Providence. She spent the 2025 fall semester at University of Edinburgh in Scotland.

Estelle Rampelt served as the 2025 summer intern at the Carpenter Museum. She resides in Providence, Rhode Island. Estelle is enrolled in a Masters level program at Boston University studying Historic Preservation with a concentration in Museum Practice. In 2017 Estelle worked with a team of archaeological conservators outside of Rome, Italy preserving mosaic flooring in several ancient Roman villas. With a personal interest in local history, Estelle researched the Hoppin family of Providence, East Providence and Newport. She has also worked with the Preservation Society of Newport County as a photographer. Both young women were unanimously approved by the RAS Board to receive this annual scholarship.

The RAS is accepting applications for the 2026-2027 second semester scholarship. Applicants must plan 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. Applicants should be enrolled in, or accepted by, an academic institution or an institution offering programs aligned with our mission. Eligible programs will lead to a degree or certificate. All applications will be considered on a case by case basis. Additional information and an application can be found on our website (https://rehobothantiquarian.org/ras-scholarship/) The deadline for applications is Friday, June 19, 2026.

Sellers Wanted for Large Yard Sale

Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 8 am to 12

Be part of the largest and longest-running yard sale in the Seekonk area.

For over 40 years, the Seekonk Knights of Columbus has been sponsoring this annual charity event.

Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 8 am to 12 noon at 532 Arcade Avenue, Seekonk, MA 02771.

Rain date: Sunday, May 17, 2026, 8 am to 12 noon.

We have 30 outdoor sites available at $25 each. Sites are 15 ft x 30 ft that will accommodate a vehicle and pop-up canopy.

Don’t hesitate. Last year was a sellout. To reserve your site, call 508.336.7952. Visit Facebook for more details.

Events at the Seekonk American Legion Post 311

Annual Spring Meat Raffles continue into April and May

Weekly Meat Raffles will run for 7 weeks at the Seekonk American Legion located at 351 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA. The dates this spring are: 3/28, 4/4, 4/11 and 4/25, 5/2, 5/9, 5/16. 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. Call 508-336-9822 for information.

Spring Psychic Fair – April 19th

We will be holding our Spring Psychic Fair on Sunday, 4/19/26. Admission is free. 15-minute readings are $20.00 each. There will also be several Vendors and Crafters (spaces are still available). continued on next page...

Photo: (left to right) Rebecca Smith, RAS President; Joyce Coleman, Scholarship Committee; Katie Nelson, Scholarship winner; Estelle Rampelt, Scholarship winner; Janice McPartland, Scholarship Committee; Maureen Whittemore, Scholarship Committee.

Photo Credit: Ron Whittemore

The hours are from 10 am to 3 pm. Doors open at 9:45 am. Proceeds to benefit American Legion Auxiliary programs for our Veterans, community and children. For more information, please call Kathy at 401-434-8917 or send email to auxiliary311@yahoo.com.

Participating Readers at this event are: Beverly Sylvia – Psychic and Spirit Medium, Debbie Matthews - Spiritual Psychic Medium, Susan Aubin – Medium, Dorothy Raposa - Psychic Medium, Psychometry, Card Reader, Maureen Brown – Psychic Medium, Reiki Master Healer, Tarot Card Interpreter, Ryan – Reiki, Astrid Meijer – Akashic Records Reader, Dawn Lorraine – Tarot and Oracle Readings, Kathy Costa – Medium, Card Reader, Anne HartnettIntuitive Tarot, Medium and Reiki, Donna Noonan - Angel Intuitive, Tarot, Oracle Card Reader.

Participating Crafters/Vendors are: Emma Healey from Crystal Healing Arts selling crystals and handmade items, Runners by Lois G. selling homemade table runners, Jewelry by Dazzle Lin, and others.

Paint Party to benefit “Service Dogs for Veterans” – May 3rd

A Paint Party will be held on Sunday, May 3rd. We will be painting “Patriotic Flowers” on canvas. Doors open at noon with painting starting at 1 pm. Tickets include all materials and one free beverage. There will be a cash bar.

Reservations must be made in advance by April 18th in the amount of $35.00 per person, ages 16 and up. Please make checks/money orders payable to: American Legion Auxiliary, Unit 311 and mail to Donna Reed, 29 Lanesboro St, Pawtucket, RI 02861. Tickets are nonrefundable and will be mailed upon receipt of reservation. Please send any questions to auxiliary311@yahoo. com or Donnareedunit311@gmail.com or call/text Donna at 401451-1944. 100% of net proceeds from this event will go to NEADS to train a Service Dog for a Veteran.

Lottery/Keno

The lottery/keno is now available at the American Legion. Come on down and play.

Music at the American Legion

Friday Night Bands – starts at 7 pm with no cover charge Rock A Blues –4/10

Hall Rental

150 person capacity. Contact Bob for information at 508-3369822

New members are welcome

American Legion - If you have served at least one day of active military duty since December 7, 1941 and were honorably discharged or you are still serving active military duty honorably, you are eligible for membership with The American Legion. American Legion meetings are held the 3rd Sunday of the month at 10 am

American Legion Auxiliary - Members are grandmothers, mothers, sisters, spouses (female/male), and direct /adopted female daughters or granddaughters of Veterans/members of The American Legion. A female Veteran can join the Auxiliary without being a member of the American Legion. American Legion Auxiliary meetings are held the 1st Sunday of the month at 11 am.

Sons of the American Legion – Members are male descendants, adopted sons and stepsons of Veterans/members of The American Legion.

For additional information call the Post at 508-336-9822.

351 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA 02771, Seekonkpost311.org

American Legion Post 302 Public Events

• Try our Fish & Chips or Specials of the Week – every Thursday 4:00 till 7:00 P.M. & Fridays 4:00 – 7:30PM and Saturdays with a Band ONLY 6:00-7:30PM.Take Outs are welcome – call in your order in early for pickup at 508-252-9079

• Mondays Only - SLOPPY JOES $2.00 ea. 3-6 with a Drink

• Tequila + Two Tacos every Tuesday 3-6 PM or $2.50 ea

• Wild Wings Wednesday 3-6 PM or $1.00 per wing

• Chew & Brew every Thursday 3-6 PM $1.00 per slice

• “QUEEN OF HEARTS” drawing every Friday night at 8:00 PM

• Prize Bingo - 4th Sunday of every month at 5:00PM

• NEW POOL TABLE Come and have some fun

• 2nd Sunday of Every Month, “All you can Eat Breakfast” 7:30am – 10:30am - Bar opens at 10!

• Check us out on Facebook - Photos since 2018 posted by our patrons… https://www.facebook.com/pages/American-LegionHall/258235277540573

For Events: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/

Upcoming Events

***Please note these events are subjected to change – Call First *** ***Last update March 17th, 2026***

• April 10th, 2026 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M., Live Karaoke performed by JAZZY JILL 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! Or Play Pool!!

• April 11th, 2026 – Saturday - 4:00 -6:00 P.M., ”REHOBOTH PEOPLE HAVE A HEART” PRIME RIB DINER $45.00 donation 508-243-4160 RehobothPeopleHaveHeart@gmail.com or Facebook @RehobothPeopleHaveHeart

• April 11th, 2026 – Saturday – 7:00 -10-P.M., 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

• April 12th, 2026 – Sunday - 7:30 -10:30 A.M., American Legion’s Monthly Breakfast, Second Sunday of every month $12.00 donation - All you can Eat! Enjoy all the Food you can Eat!

• April 17th, 2026 – 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

• April 18th, 2026 – Saturday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M., “Vinyl Frontier Band” with Live Music Entertainment playing Classical Rock Music – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Dancing & having a GREAT TIME! Play some Pool! https://www.facebook.com/ Vinylfrontierband/

• April 24th, 2026 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 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!

• April 24th, 2026 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 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!

• April 25th, 2026 – Saturday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M, South County Line Band – Classic Rock & County – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME!

• April 26th, 2026 – Sunday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M., Prize BINGO! American Legion Auxiliary, Fourth Sunday of every month $10.00 donation per 5 Games – Food – Drinks & having a GREAT TIME!

• May 1st, 2026 - Friday - 7:00-10:00 P.M., Jim Powers Entertain-

ment presents Old Time Rock “N” Roll, Classical Rock & County - No Cover Charge! – Food – Drinks – Dancing -

• May 2nd, 2026 - Saturday - 7:00-10:00 P.M., Live Music with 3 Sum 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 8th, 2026 - Friday - 7:00-10:00 P.M., KARAOKE NITE ?????

• May 9th, 2026 - Saturday - 7:00-10:00 P.M.,– PO BOYS BAND –Classic Rock – No Cover Charge! – Food – Fish & Chips - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME!

grounds and experience levels to participate in a series of competitions for quartets and choruses. Participants are adjudicated by a panel of trained judges evaluating categories that encompass what songs the performers elect to sing, the skill with which they sing those songs, and how they present the songs, which can include emotionally connecting with the audience.

To learn more about Harmony Heritage, visit www.harmonyheritage.org.

Who You Hire Matters!

• May 10th, 2026 – Sunday - 7:30 -10:30 A.M., American Legion’s Monthly Breakfast, Second Sunday of every month $12.00 donation - All you can Eat! Enjoy all the Food you can Eat!

• May 15th, 2026 - Friday - 7:00-10:00 P.M., SECONDHAND SMOKE REVISED BAND 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 our POOL TABLE https:// open.spotify.com/artist/57RIFB8RMODxF0PXg6vVjT?si=%20 HGPY_GMWTAioT8epLo0GWg&nd=1

Buying or selling a home is one of the bigg decisions you’ll make.

Local A Cappella Chorus Prepares for Area Singing Competition

Having the right team behind you can mean the difference between a smooth transaction and a s one.

Harmony Heritage Heads to Framingham, MA to participate in Harmony, Inc. Contest

Who You Hire Matters!

Harmony Heritage, the Rhode Island chapter of Harmony, Incorporated, an international organization of female a cappella singers specializing in the barbershop harmony style, will head to Framingham, MA in April to participate in an area contest that could qualify the local singers for an international competition later

this year.

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With Russell Weddell, Broker Associate at Keller Williams South Watuppa and Rob Bettencourt of Mortgage, you get the perfect combination of: Market expertise

Harmony Heritage will go head to head with 10 other choruses in Harmony, Inc.’s Area 2, which spans all of New England, plus Montreal, Canada. The competition will determine area rankings, and participants earning a score of a certain threshold are qualified to participate in the international competition of Harmony, Inc. choruses in Louisville, KY in November. Skye quartet will also be competing in the area quartet competition to qualify for the international quartet competition.

Having the right team behind you can mean the difference between a smooth transaction and a stressful one.

Who You Hire

Matters!

With Russell Weddell, Broker Associate at Keller

Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest f decisions you’ll make

Williams South Watuppa and Rob Bettencourt of Fairway Mortgage, you get the perfect combination of:

Market expertise

negotiation Reliable financing Clear communication every step of the way

Having the right team behind you can mean th difference between a smooth transaction and one.

, 508-28

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“The Harmony Heritage chorus rehearses all year to become more masterful at the four-part harmony that characterizes the barbershop style, but preparing for our area contest is one of the most exciting times of our year,” says Camilla Streeter, chapter president. “We’re ready to take the competition stage, and we’re proud to represent the Rhode Island community among choruses from all across this region.”

With Russell Weddell, Broker Associate at Keller Williams South Watuppa and Rob Bettencourt of Fairway Mortgage, you get the perfect combination of:

Clear communication every step of the way

Market expertise

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Harmony, Inc. has hosted area and international conventions for more than 60 years, gathering female singers of all musical back-

church nEws & EvEnts

Newman Congregational Church, UCC News

Community Craft Fair

Sellers wanted! Space is limited! Saturday, June 13, 2026 9 am – 2 pm RENTAL OPTIONS

• $30 donation for the rental of an 8’ space indoors

• (table & 2 chairs available for indoor use only for an additional $5)

• $30 donation for the rental of 10’x10’ outdoor space

• (bring your own table, chairs & tents)

• Proceeds from your table is 100% yours!

• This is an indoor/outdoor event, 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.

85th May Breakfast

Newman Congregational Church, UCC extends an invitation to one and all to join us on Saturday, May 2nd, for our 85th May Breakfast. The breakfast will be held from 8 am until 10 am in the church’s hall at 100 Newman Avenue in Rumford.

The breakfast buffet will consist of scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes, baked beans, homemade muffins, juice, coffee & tea and more! Gluten-free options will be available.

Handmade May Baskets, filled with cookies or flowers will be on sale.

Tickets will be sold at the door: Adults - $15, Children under age 8 - $5, Family of 5 (2 adults and 3 or more children) or more $40 max Reservations are not required. However, parties of 10 or more may make a reservation by calling the church office at 401-4344742 x10.

Newman Congregational Church, United Church of Christ is located at 100 Newman Avenue, Rumford, RI 02916. For more information, call 401-434-4742 X10.

Racial Equity Team Seeks Applications for Community Scholarship

American institutions have contributed to the unequal and sometimes violent treatment of many of its citizens. To support racial equity and social justice with advocacy and meaningful actions, the Racial Equity Team at Newman Congregational Church, United Church of Christ offers scholarship aid to individuals who identify as Black, Indigenous, or People of Color (BIPOC) who are pursuing education beyond high school in 2026-27. Priority will be given to graduating seniors.

We intend these awards to help further the dreams and aspirations of marginalized students in southern New England.

Scholarship applicants will include an essay describing their motivation and plans for their future.

Accepting Applications – Currently Application Deadline – May 4, 2026

Applicants Notified – May 18, 2026

Criteria:

• Identifying as Black, Indigenous, or People of Color (BIPOC)

• Pursuing higher education or training post-high school (proof of

• enrollment required)

• Has financial need

• Must be a resident of one of the following states: Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island (proof of residency required)

Individuals or businesses in the community who would like to partner with the Newman UCC Racial Equity Team in supporting the Community Scholarship may contribute to the racial equity scholarship at Newman UCC at the address below or online at newmanucc.org/donate.

Newman Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, is located at 100 Newman Avenue, PO Box 4764, Rumford, RI 02916. For more information, call the church office at 401-434-4742 X10.

News from Second Congregational Church, UCC

• Second Church is a hub of activity in Downtown Attleboro. On Friday, April 10th (and every second Friday) at 2:30pm, folks who enjoy craft work and watercolor painting will gather to share creativity and conversation during “Crafternoon” and “Color Our World”. Bring your watercolor materials and crafts of your choice, or join in on a group craft project (materials are supplied).

• Also hosted on April 10th (“Second Friday”): a Young Adult Open Mic evening 6-8pm, in Second Church’s Fellowship Hall. All ages are invited to attend this event, which features young performers (~ teens to early 20s). This is a wonderful opportunity to work on public performance skills in a friendly and supportive environment. This is a cultural event (not a religious event) open to the entire community. Free refreshments are provided.

• On April 11th (“Second Saturday”) both adults and the younger set can take the stage in Fellowship Hall, again from 6-8pm. This Open Mic & Coffee House (with free refreshments) features music, story telling, poetry — whatever you want to share. Amplifiers, mics, and a piano are available.

• On Wednesday evenings at 6:30pm throughout the month all are invited to attend a non-denominational group that discusses the “The Chosen” (thechosen.tv), a multi-season dramatic series about the life and ministry of Jesus.

• The month of April rounds out with Second Church’s outreach Food Pantry, which has a pickup on Monday, April 26th at 3:00pm.

• And with April ending can a May Breakfast be far behind? The annual Second Congregational Church May Breakfast will take place on Saturday, May 2nd, 8:00-10:30am. Don’t miss the famous cinnamon rolls!

Finally, more information about Second Congregational Church events is always available at the church website: www.attleborosecondchurch.org.

50 Park Street, Attleboro MA 02703, 508-222-4677

BAPTIST CHURCH

Seekonk Congregational Church Sunday Services

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 services & church school begin at 9:30 and all are welcome. Licensed infant/ preschool day care is available every week. So, check us out in person, you will be happy you did. We do record our service each Sunday and you can watch it on Seekonk Cable Xfinity Access channel 95 at 9 AM each day or there is a link on our Facebook and YouTube pages.

Breakfast Before Church

We are trying something new, the Men’s Coffee Connection will sponsor a breakfast in Woodworth Hall on Sunday, April 12th , from 8AM-9:15AM.

The cost is $10 per adult, $5 children under 12 & a maximum of $30 per family.

The menu will consist of Scrambled eggs, Bacon, Home fries, French Toast sticks, Fresh fruit bowl, Assorted muffins, Coffee, Tea, & OJ

Check it out, if successful we will continue to do this

On-Going Mission Concerns & Needs

• The clothing shed is at the end of the County Street parking lot. Drop off your clothing, shoes, belts, purses, blankets, sheets, curtains, pillowcases or stuffed animal donations in a tied-up bag.

• CANS & BOTTLES MA deposit Only: Save the environment and people!! Bring donations to the green bins - Fall River Ave parking lot- lift lid - drop in clean bottles and cans. DEPOSIT ONLY, no water bottles please.

• FOOD PANTRY (in Porch Area) is for anyone you know who has financial challenges Needed: canned meats, tuna, Cereals, stew, peanut butter, paper goods, cereal bars, tuna pouches, crackers - Check the expiration dates

If you have any questions on the above or wish to subscribe to our weekly newsletter, please email Donna.euell@gmail.com. All events and services are open to ALL. Please check out our Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/SeekonkCongregationalChurch/ for updates.

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

Free Summer Garden Planting Workshop

Wednesday, April 8 at 6 PM

SEEKONK, MA – Don’t let another year slip by with you planning to garden, but never quite getting around to it. Dig in at the event Adults Garden Planting Workshop on Wednesday, April 8 at 6 PM at Seekonk Public Library. In this hands-on program you will plant seeds, learn the basics of propagating cuttings, and create a gallonsized container garden to take home and enjoy all summer long.

Perfect for both beginners and experienced gardeners, this workshop led by Blackstone Valley Veggie Gardens will provide practical guidance on nurturing plants from their earliest stages. Attendees will leave with new skills, helpful growing tips, and a thriving container that will continue to flourish throughout the summer months. All materials will be provided. Space is limited; pre-registration with a SAILS library card is required. Register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events.

For more information or help registering, call Adult Services at 508-336-8230 extension 56130 or email library@seekonkpl.org.

The Coffeehouse Concert

Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at 6:00 PM

Seekonk, MA – The Coffeehouses and Cafes of the 1960s and 70s have been considered “The breeding grounds” of many popular musicians and song writers such as Simon and Garfunkel, Joni Michell, and Bob Dylan. Andrew Lewis and Margaret Ferri, local professional musicians, will re-create the rich atmosphere of the Coffeehouse era, performing songs such as “Mr. Tambourine man,” “Someday Soon,” “Kathy’s Song,” and many more. They’ll also share the stories behind the music, providing a vivid snapshot of this period of the American experience. Sponsored by the Seekonk Cultural Council, in partnership with the Mass Cultural Council. This program is free and open to the public; for planning and to be notified of program updates please register in our Events Calendar at seekonkpl.org/events.

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

Library Tech Class: Cut Your Subscriptions with Free Library Streaming Services

Tuesday, April 21 at 2 PM

SEEKONK, MA – Do you want to get more out of your smartphone or tablet? Bring them to our new 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: Stream for Free on Tuesday, April 21 from 2-3:30 PM in the library’s Large Meeting Room. Why spend money on subscription services? Learn how you can use your library card with the apps or websites for Libby, Hoopla, and Kanopy apps to get movies, tv shows and more all FREE with your library card. This program is open to smartphone, tablet, and laptop users. You must bring your own device, one device per person; make sure the device is fully charged. Space is limited; registration is required. Register in the Events Calendar at www. seekonkpl.org/events.

Earth Day Mandala Workshop

Wednesday, April 22 at 6 PM

Seekonk, MA – Celebrate Earth Day by connecting with the natural world through the meditative art of mandala creation. Join us at Seekonk Library on Wednesday, April 22 at 6 PM for the hands-on event Earth Day Mandala Workshop: Honoring Nature Through Art. You will create a dot mandala inspired by the beauty, patterns, and colors found in nature—think leaves, flowers, bees and dragonflies.

No prior art experience is needed—just a willingness to experiment and a love for the planet. All materials are provided. You’ll leave with your own unique mandala artwork and a renewed sense of connection to the earth. Join us for a creative, restorative experience that honors both your inner artist and the world we share.

Space is limited; pre-registration with a SAILS library card is required. Register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/ events. This program is free through the generosity of a grant from the Seekonk Cultural Council, a local agency that is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council.

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

Share Your Joyful Seekonk Stories

Thursday, April 23 at 6 PM

Seekonk, MA – This year’s National Library Week theme is “Find Your Joy” and we know you’ve got some Seekonk stories to tell! Seekonk Public Library invites you to join us at the library on Thursday, April 23 at 6 PM for Seekonk Keepsakes, Site and Stories. Presenter Maria Holme will host this community strengthening program, a complement to the 2025 Seekonk Stronger Together series. Town residents with stories, pictures and items of interest are invited for a community conversation about years gone by in Seekonk. Stories of historical homes, what was where and farming in Seekonk will be shared, all in a means of building bonds and keeping the stories of Seekonk alive. This program is free and open to the public through the generosity of a grant from the Seekonk Cultural Council, a local agency that is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council. For planning purposes and to receive important program updates, please register in the online Events Calendar at seekonkpl.org/events.

For more information or help registering, call Adult Services at 508-336-8230 extension 56130 or email library@seekonkpl.org.

ABOUT THE PRESENTER - Maria Holme is the owner of Your Next Step and has been providing motivational insight to groups and clients for several years. Maria’s journey through years of anxious thoughts, that once limited her daily, to now facing the day with a smile, serves as her inspiration and motivation to provide positive vibes to others.

All About Filmmaking Workshop

Monday, April 27, 2026 at 6:00 PM

Seekonk, MA – **NOTE: This program was rescheduled from its original February date due to the snowstorm and is now open for new registrations.

Starting with storyboarding, independent filmmaker Nicola McEldowney (Nicola Rose, Magnetosphere) will walk us through all the steps to making an independent film. She’ll show brief clips from her own filmography as examples of finished products, and she’ll allow participants time to ask questions and even make their own storyboards and share ideas.

This 1-hour event is free and open to grades 6 through adult. Space is limited and registration is required at seekonkpl.org/events.

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

Cultural Council Supported Show

Seekonk, MA: On Thursday, April 30th, Jon and Li Waterman will perform “Songs of Service: America’s Veterans in Music” at Seekonk Public Library on 410 Newman Ave. in Seekonk at 6:00pm. The program is the duo’s “Popular Music and Veterans” show. The program consists of original and traditional songs along with an accompanying slideshow about the history of veterans in America and some related music history. The songs and history revolve around subjects ranging from the Revolutionary War to Vietnam and touch on figures like James Reese Europe, Glenn Miller, and Elvis, and events like the Bonus Army.

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Jon and Li have performed their music and history programs in venues throughout New England as part of a series called Live Music Making History Live. The series was designed to encourage the celebration and exploration of history through music. Both songwriters and musicians, Jon and Li perform regularly as the duo Sultana. The program is supported in part by a grant from the Seekonk Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.

Free Concert Celebrating Veterans in American History

Thursday, April 30 at 6 PM

Seekonk, MA – In honor of Patriot’s Day and America’s upcoming 250th anniversary, Seekonk Public Library invites the community to a special live music program celebrating the experiences, sacrifices, and stories of U.S. veterans across American history. Join us at Seekonk Library on Thursday, April 30 at 6 PM for the concert Songs of Service: America’s Veterans in Music. This engaging concert from musical duo Sultana blends original songs, traditional music, storytelling, and visuals to explore military service from the Revolutionary War through the Civil War, World Wars I and II, Korea, and Vietnam — alongside the popular music of each era. Come to enjoy powerful music, compelling narratives, and a slideshow that together highlight how music has reflected both the challenges of war and the resilience of those who served. Join us and bring fellow history lovers, music enthusiasts, veterans, families, and anyone interested in America’s shared story.

This program is free and open to the public through the generosity of a grant from the Seekonk Cultural Council, a local agency that is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council. For planning purposes and to receive important program updates, please register in the online Events Calendar at seekonkpl.org/events.

For more information or help registering, call Adult Services at 508-336-8230 extension 56130 or email library@seekonkpl.org.

ABOUT THE PERFORMERS: Sultana is the duo of musicians and songwriters Jon and Li Waterman. They perform together on the Live Music Making History Live programs “A Journey through the Roots of Popular Music”, “History and Legends through Song” and “Music and Veterans”, and on other shows as well. Li is a classically trained guitarist and singer who has played in the band Alien Tesh.

Seekonk Paper Shred Day at Town Hall

Saturday, June 6 from 9 AM-

noon

Seekonk, MA – The Seekonk Recycling Committee and Seekonk Public Library will host a Seekonk Shred Day on Saturday, June 6, 2026 from 9 AM to 12 noon at Seekonk’s Town Hall, 100 Peck St, Seekonk, MA. Seekonk residents and library cardholders can drop-in anytime to deposit items in the secure shredding truck in the Town Hall lot. Non-residents can participate from 11 AM to noon. Bring your confidential paper items to Town Hall for secure, on-site destruction and recycling at the ProShred mobile shredding truck onsite. Be prepared to bring your own material to the truck and carry away your 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.

For more information, email or call Recycling Coordinator Christine Zadykovich at czadykovich@seekonk-ma.gov, 508-3367407, or Seekonk Library Adult Services at library@seekonkpl.org, 508-336-8230.

Friends of the Seekonk Public Library

News

The Friends of the Seekonk Public Library has been selected again as a nonprofit partner in the Stop & Shop Community Bag Program. The Friends will receive $1 for each $2.50 reusable Community Bag sold during the month of April at the Stop & Shop at 125 HIghland Avenue in Seekonk.

Our next Big Book ale will be on May 3rd from 9-3. All children’s and adult books as well as puzzles will be at half price. There will also be CDs and DVDs at reduced prices. Tickets for the Mother’s Day basket are $1 for one and $5 for 8. All proceeds go to fund programs and materials for the library.

We are in need of adult soft cover fiction for our daily sales as well as our big sale. We also are looking for preschool through grade 1 books, leveled readers and graphic novels through grade 8 in good condition.

Teen Services

Teen Advisory Board

Thursday, April 2 at 3:30 PM

**Please note: Meetings are for TAB members only. To join, visit seekonkpl.org/teens and download the TAB application. Email the finished application to teens@seekonkpl.org or turn it in at the Research Help Desk in the library.

Your opinion matters! If you’re in grade 6 through 12, then you have a chance to make a difference at your library by joining the Teen Advisory Board (TAB). During the school year, we will meet once a month at 3:30 PM to share ideas about upcoming programs and discuss how we can make the most out of the library’s services for tweens and teens. This is an opportunity to practice leadership, collaboration, and civic engagement and to take an active role in shaping the library’s impact on your community. Becoming a member of the board requires a commitment to attend meetings regularly.

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

Poetry Workshop for Tweens and Teens

Thursday, April 9 at 3:00 PM

April is National Poetry Month, so join us for this opportunity to learn some tips on poetry writing in a low-key, judgment-free environment. We’ll discuss simple ways to express your ideas with clarity and impact, and we’ll do some writing exercises individually and as a group. No experience is necessary, just an open mind and a positive attitude!

This 90-minute event is free and open to tweens and teens in grades 6 through 12. Please register online at seekonkpl.org/events.

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

Selfie Silhouettes

Thursday, April 23 at 3:00 PM

The picture captured in a photo is made up of curves, edges, and shades of color, all intricately mingled to create a lifelike image. If we untangle some of these elements and highlight the lines, the contours, the contrast of light and shadows, we just might see a work of art revealed in our own unique and striking faces. In this workshop, you’ll learn some simple digital photo editing techniques and create your own abstract self-portrait using a Silhouette Cameo cutting machine. **Note: Participants are encouraged to bring their own Windows or Mac laptop if they have one (Chromebooks not recommended). No specific software is required.

This 90-minute event is free and open to grades 6 through 12. Space is limited and registration is required at seekonkpl.org/events.

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

All About Filmmaking Workshop

Monday, April 27 at 6:00 PM

**NOTE: This program was rescheduled from its original February date due to the snowstorm and is now open for new registrations. Starting with storyboarding, independent filmmaker Nicola McEldowney (Nicola Rose, Magnetosphere) will walk us through all the steps to making an independent film. She’ll show brief clips from her own filmography as examples of finished products, and she’ll allow participants time to ask questions and even make their own storyboards and share ideas.

This 1-hour event is free and open to grades 6 through adult. Space is limited and registration is required at seekonkpl.org/events. For more information, call Adult Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email teens@seekonkpl.org.

From the Children's Room

Kid Librarian of the Month

March 1-31

Ages 7-12 Stop by the Children’s Room to fill out an application for the chance to become the Kid Librarian of the Month. The Kid Librarian of the Month will be selected in the last week of the month, and their display will remain on display for the rest of the following month. If chosen, you will be contacted by email or phone. All applications will remain on file.

Preschool Storytime

Monday, April 6, 13, 10:00 AM

Ages 3-5 At preschool storytime, children aged 3-5 are encouraged to engage with stories, sing songs, and participate in activities that spark curiosity and promote a love of books. Younger siblings are welcome too. Drop in.

Toddler Storytime

Wednesday, April 1, 8, 15, 10:00 AM

Ages 18-36 Months. Toddler storytime includes reading a few books, followed by music; finger plays, movement, and yes, even bubbles! Drop in.

Baby Storytime

Thursday, April 2, 9, 16, 10:00 AM

Ages 0-18 Months. Bring a small blanket for your baby to sit on and enjoy a short story followed by music, finger plays, and movement activities. After storytime, stay for a relaxed play session. Drop in.

Paws to Read

Tuesday, April 7, 3:30 PM

Help your child build reading skills and boost confidence by signing up for Paws to Read! During this special program, children can reserve a 15-minute one-on-one session to read aloud to Gizmo and Pepe, two lovable Chihuahua/Pomeranian mix therapy dogs. Register.

Homeschool Hangout

Saturday, April 10, 10 AM

Friday, April 10, 2 PM

All ages. Join us in the meeting room to meet, play, and learn with other homeschool families! Activities and games for kids will be provided. Educators will have the opportunity to ask reference questions or share resources with other home educators. Drop in.

Osamequin Farm Youth Art ExhibitionPainters Wanted!

Monday, April 13, 6 PM

Grades 1-5 Let’s paint! Paying tribute to Andrew Newell Wyeth, an American artist known for his beautiful and realistic scenes, you will create your own painting inspired by his work, featuring farms, oceans, and peaceful landscapes. When you finish, please leave one of your artwork pieces with us to be displayed at the Osamequin Farm Youth Art Exhibition. The exhibit will take place on Sunday, April 19, at Osamequin Farm. Register.

Sing and Dance with Greg Lato

Tuesday, April 21, 10 AM

All ages. Greg starts with a brief description of his latest children’s book and song; EVERYBODY NEEDS SOMEONE, and then turns the pages of the book while he sings the song! The show continues with children’s themed songs, funny skits, spoken word segments, and other interactive fun. Dancing and singing are strongly encouraged! Register.

Creepy Crawly Creatures with Hands on Nature

Wednesday, April 22, 10 AM

All ages. We are celebrating Earth Day with Creepy Crawly Creatures! Join Hands on Nature for an opportunity to discover some fascinating local bugs - such as beetles, worms, slugs, ladybugs, and caterpillars! If the weather is nice, we will end with a BUG HUNT outside to discover more insects! Register.

Gravity Games – Two Sessions

Thursday, April 23, 10 AM and 11:30 AM

All ages. Gravity Games brings you a variety of hands-on challenges to test your mind, creativity, and balance! Register.

Make it & Take it Craft Fair

Friday, April 24, 10 AM

All ages. Bring your creativity to the library for our Make it and Take it Craft Fair. Bracelet making, painting, and creating, oh my! Visit one craft station or visit them all and take home what you make. Register.

Sensory Play

Saturday, April 25, 10:00 AM

All ages. Play with various toys and unique materials to engage the senses and support the development of motor, memory, and problem-solving skills in a fun and welcoming environment. This program is for children of all abilities. Drop-in

Beyblade and Lego Builders Club

Thursday, April 30, 4:00 PM

Grades 1-5 Let it rip at Beyblade and Builders Club! Battle by launching your Beyblades into a stadium to see who comes out on top. Channel your inner engineer or designer to build a Lego creation, on your own or with a friend. Drop in.

News and Notes from Blanding Library

Seed Saving & Swap

On Mon. April 13 at 6:30 Sharon from Brilliant Dahlia Flower Farm will talk about seed saving and will offer some seeds for you to take home. Free, no registration required.

Puzzle-A-Thon

On Sat. April 25 from 1-3pm there will be a fun afternoon of puzzle competition. Teams of 2 of 4 will race to complete a 300-piece puzzle for prizes. For ages 5 and up. Call or stop by to register and review rules.

Through Me to You Puppetry

On Wed. April 22 at 10:30, join Leigh Baltzer along with Newton and his puppet friends as they take turns reading stories and singing songs with the audience. A fun way to share a story time. Children will have an opportunity to explore some of the puppets that Leigh brings. A 30-minute puppet program followed by a Puppet Free Play. Geared to ages 3-7, but all are welcome!

Story Hours

• Stories and Songs for Littles will be on Mon. April 6 at 10:30.

• Legos at the Library will next be offered on Sat. April 11 from 11 to 2. Come by and make something special.

• Tot Time with Miss Joyce for children under 3 is on Tuesdays at 10:30 and Story Hours with Miss Cathy for children ages 3 and up is on Thursdays at 10:30. Siblings are welcome to both groups.

Jose Soares Masonry

By Leslie Patterson

Poetry in April

April is poetry month. Do you write poetry? Anytime during April, email your original poems to sbeskid@sailsinc.org or drop them off at the library and we will display them for all to read! All ages and styles of poetry welcome. If you are not yet a poet, stop in to try your hand at our poetry board or check out some poetry to take home and ponder.

Paper Shredding

In honor of Earth Day, paper shredding will be available on Friday April 24 from 10 to 1. Call the library for more information.

Earth Day Succulent Class

Join us for an Earth Day succulent tea cup planting class on Wed. April 15 starting at 4. This is a drop-in class and the cost is $5 at the door. All profits will go to Keep Rehoboth Beautiful.

Concerts April 8 & May 13

• Musicians Andrew Lewis and Margaret Ferri return to the library to present their award-winning musical program “The Coffeehouse”, which focuses on the historic period of the popular coffeehouse scene of the 1960s and the 1970s. Free, Wed. April 8 at 6:30.

• Matt York returns to the library on Wed. May 13 at 6:30, focusing on Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash and how their musical friendship merged country and folk traditions. Matt York has twice been nominated for the Boston Music Award for Best Country Artist and he recently released his second book, The Words and Wisdom of Willie Nelson. This program is supported in part by a grant from the Rehoboth Local Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.

Ongoing Programs

• The weekly history discussion group led by Hank Coleman meets at 11am each Wednesday. Open to all with an interest in history; for more information contact hjcoleman@comcast.net.

• The Blanding offers two monthly book groups; one meets on Monday evenings and one on Wednesday afternoons. Call the library for more information.

• Knit Night at the library meets one Thursday evening a month from 6:30 to 8. They will next meet on April 16. For adults and teens to get together and work on their knitting projects.

You can find more information and news about programs and events at the library on https://rehobothantiquarian.org/blandinglibrary/ You can also sign-up for a monthly library email letter on this site. You can also find the Blanding Library on Facebook or call the library at 508-252-4236.

The Blanding Public Library, at 124 Bay State Rd., Rehoboth is open Monday through Thursday from 10 to 8, and on Friday and Saturdays from 10 to 4. Closed Sundays and holidays, including Mon. April 20 for Patriots’ Day.

Fun Event at Blanding Library

We are planning a fun event for Saturday May 9th from 1 -3pm for those ages 5 yrs. and older.

Create a mini home for a fairy or a gnome. Some building materials will be provided; however, you are welcome to bring your own. Supplies are limited, so please call the library (508-252-4236) or stop in to register. This event is not recommended for the very young. Geared for those ages 5yrs. and older.

Costumes are welcome.

Audubon Society of Rhode iSlAnd

April 2026 Highlights from the Audubon Society of RI

Audubon wildlife refuges come alive in spring! Head out on the trails for a froggy adventure, observe the amazing aerial display of the American Woodcock, bring the kids for vacation week fun, and join a celebration of woodpeckers!

Unless noted, registration is required for all programs. Register online and view a complete listing of programs through the events calendar at www.asri.org/calendar.

Wed. Morning Bird Walks

Locations Across Rhode Island

April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 2026; 9:00-11:00am

Audubon offers small-group Wednesday Morning Bird Walks with naturalist Laura Carberry. Each week a new birding destination will be chosen. Advance registration is required. Locations will be sent to registered participants in advance.

Locations determined weekly; Every Wednesday through June 2026; Fee: $5/ member, $10/non-member. Ages: 14+. Register online through the events calendar at asri.org/calendar.

Birding for Beginners

Audubon Nature Center & Aquarium, Bristol, RI

April 11, 2026; 9:00-11:00am

Join an Audubon naturalist to learn the basics of birding. Start with a presentation on bird ID tips and tricks followed by a guided hike to put your new birding skills to the test! No prior experience needed, just bring your binoculars for a fun, bird-filled morning.

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, 1401 Hope Street, Bristol, RI; Fee: $10/ member; $14/non-member. Ages: 14 and up. Register online through the events calendar at asri.org/calendar.

Croaks and Cider Frog Walk

Audubon Caratunk Wildlife Refuge

April 16, 2026; 6:30-8:00 pm

With the arrival of spring, frogs and toads are coming out of brumation and becoming more active in their preferred habitats. Start by discussing the species in our area, then take an easy hike to vernal pools to identify frog calls and learn the importance of protecting their critical habitats. This program includes a taste of a fermented local cider, or the option of non-alcohol cider. Ages 21+.

Caratunk Wildlife Refuge, 301 Brown Avenue, Seekonk, MA; Fee: $30/member; $35/non-member. Ages: 21+. Register online through the events calendar at asri. org/calendar.

Nature Tales Storytime

Audubon Nature Center & Aquarium, Bristol, RI

April 16, May 14, June 11, 2026; 10:00am-10:45pm

Join Audubon for our monthly Nature Tales Storytime designed especially for children ages 3-5. Each session features a nature-themed storybook reading followed by hands-on activities that connect the story to the natural world and encourage curiosity and nature learning.

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, 1401 Hope Street, Bristol, RI; Fee: $8/member child, $10/non-member child. Ages: 3-5. Register online through the events calendar at asri.org/calendar.

Woodpecker Wings: Exhibit Opening

Audubon Nature Center & Aquarium, Bristol, RI

April 18, 2026; 10:00am-3:00pm

Join Audubon, Brown University, and RISD to celebrate the opening of a new Woodpecker Wings exhibit. With help from visitors last fall, Nico Moody (scientist) and Stephanie Van Riet (artist) constructed and painted giant woodpecker wings at the Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium. Come learn about these fascinating creatures on April 18, take part in woodpecker-themed activities, and look for the giant woodpecker wings along the trail! Visit asri.org/calendar for details.

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, 1401 Hope Street, Bristol, RI; Free with Admission. Ages: All.

Timberdoodles and Snickerdoodles

Audubon Caratunk Wildlife Refuge, Seekonk, MA

April 18, 2026; 7:00-8:30 pm

Join Audubon for an evening adventure to observe the captivating flight patterns of the Timberdoodle, aka the American Woodcock. Begin with snickerdoodle treats and a presentation on these unusual birds. Then head out on a hike to observe the Timberdoodle’s spring display. Advance registration is required. For families with children ages 10 and up.

Caratunk Wildlife Refuge, 301 Brown Avenue, Seekonk, MA; Fee: $10/member adult, $5/member child; $14/non-member adult, $7/non-member child. Ages: 10 and up. Register online through the events calendar at asri.org/calendar.

April School Vacation Week Nature Activities

Audubon Nature Center & Aquarium, Bristol, RI April 20-24, 2026; 10:00am-3:00pm

Not sure what to do during school vacation week? Join Audubon for a week full of exciting nature activities! Special programs and activities available each day and are free with admission. No registration required.

• 10:00am-3:00pm: All day craft table

• 11:00am: Nature Story

• 1:00pm: Animal Interview

Special programs designed for children ages 6 and up:

Monday, April 20: Coastal Investigation – Take a walk along the shore and discover the incredible plants and animals that live where the land meets the sea!

Tuesday, April 21: Wetland Investigation – Discover the hidden life of wetlands! Grab a net, dip into the water, and see what creatures call the wetland home.

Wednesday, April 22: Earth Day Beach Cleanup – Join Audubon in celebrating Earth Day by helping clean our coastal habitats!

Thursday, April 23: Bug Hunt – Learn about the fascinating world of insects. Then take to the trails in search of bugs!

Friday, April 24: Build a Better Nest –Learn about how birds build their nests and get a close-up look at real birds’ nests. Then try your hand at building a nest!

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, 1401 Hope Street, Bristol, RI; Free with Admission. Ages: All.

‘Spring’ on Over to Prudence Island

Prudence Island, RI

April 22, 2026; 9:45am-4:45pm

Come celebrate spring by exploring Prudence Island, a hidden gem in the middle of Narragansett Bay. Explore the areas Mother Nature deems suitable for travel, which will likely include forest, salt marsh and shoreline, both on foot and via passenger van. Spring birds will be arriving, so enjoy some birding time, too. Advance registration required.

Narragansett Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, Prudence Island, RI; Fee: $12/member, $14/non-member. Ages: Adult. For more information on Prudence Island trips and to register online, visit the events calendar at asri.org/calendar.

Spring Home & Garden

Avoid a Summer Breakdown: Why Now is a Smart Time to Replace an Old HVAC System

(Feature Impact) With summer heat just around the corner, homeowners may not be aware that spring can be a perfect time to prepare for rising temperatures. An outdated heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system, for example, may not be up for the task of keeping a home cool.

In fact, it can end up costing homeowners more in the long term due to a gradual decline in efficiency and more frequent repairs. In addition to savings over time, there are multiple reasons to replace an aging system this spring.

In a recent survey, Carrier found more than one-quarter (26%) of homeowners don’t know the age of their HVAC system, and a slight majority (54%) don’t know the average lifespan of one. Those knowledge gaps can result in missed opportunities for long-term savings.

Aging Systems Can’t Take the Heat

Many homeowners postpone purchasing a new HVAC system until their existing system fails or they find their aging system is struggling to maintain a consistent temperature. Often, upfront costs deter homeowners from purchasing a new system; however,

"Where

flowers bloom, so does hope" ~ Lady Bird Johnson

8 in 10 homeowners would consider a new heating and cooling system if it paid for itself in energy savings within 5-10 years. With a new energy-efficient system, those savings are possible.

A New HVAC System is a Critical Home Investment

Modern heating and cooling systems have uses beyond heating and cooling. They can improve air quality in the home by balancing humidity levels, reducing drafts and keeping a consistent climate throughout multiple rooms and stories. They also use less energy and run more quietly than older systems, making a home quieter and more cost-effective.

HVAC Basics Many

Homeowners Miss

HVAC units often go unseen, yet a home’s comfort depends on them running consistently. It’s critical that homeowners schedule annual maintenance appointments to ensure their system is running as it should and they’re aware of when it may be time to replace.

While it may seem more cost-effective to stick with an outdated system for one more season, an old system could end up prolonging issues and ultimately cost homeowners more in repairs.

Spring is an ideal time to invest in a new HVAC system, as contractors are generally more available to install a new system and homeowners can get ahead of the summer heat, ensuring they’ll be cool all season long.

Signs It’s Time to Replace

Red flags that indicate it’s time for a new HVAC system include: a system that’s more than 10-15 years old, a system that needs noticeably more repairs, energy bills going up despite usage remaining the same, inconsistent temperatures, a system struggling to maintain the desired temperature or a system that’s constantly running or seems less efficient than it used to.

Many companies offer specials during the spring and fall months, known as shoulder season. For example, until May 31, Carrier is offering 0% APR for 60 months and up to $2,100 in rebates so customers can get a jumpstart on a cool, comfortable home. A new HVAC system means more than just cool temps this summer; it means added home value, cleaner air and peace of mind. Learn more about available rebates, tax credits and financing plans at Carrier.com or by contacting a local expert.

Source: Carrier

Ouellette Landscaping

Spring is here!

Clean Up Fallen Trees & Limbs

Services: Spring clean-up, Garden rototilling, shrubs/hedges removed, small land clearing/overgrown area cutbacks, Brook/ Stream clean outs, and lawn mowing. Poison Ivy removal. Don’t forget the plant beds that need reshaping and new mulch.

No beating around the bush! Best prices to fit your budget.

Spring cleanup schedule fills up quickly  Call Joe for a free quote today (401) 323-9553

References available upon request

• Reclaim your yard from woods encroachment. Removal of dead trees, shrubs, stumps & vines.

• Concrete installation/repairs for outdoor sheds, cabanas, paver walkways and patios

• Excavation & Drainage Solutions

Available for Delivery & Pickup

• Lite Pine • Dark Pine

• Prize Hemlock • Black Forest • Deluxe Red

• Stone Dust • 3/4 Bluestone • 3/8 Bluestone

• Processed Gravel

• Screened Loam

• Screened Compost • Playground Mulch

• Mason Sand • Cobblestone, all sizes

AnnuAls, PerenniAls, shrubs & Trees

Bagged Goods:

• Top Soil • Composted / Dehydrated

Cow Manure Tree & Shrub Mix

• Hemlock Mulch • Cedar Mulch

• Red Mulch • Pine Mulch

Hours: Mon-Sat 7:30-4:30, Sun 8:00-3:00 • 508-399-8947

Prioritize Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms During Your Spring Clean

(StatePoint) Spring is the perfect time for a home refresh! While dusting the ceiling fan and scrubbing the tub are likely already on your to-do list, the most essential task of all may not be on your radar: cleaning and testing your smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms. A fresh home is great, but a safe one is even better. Did you know that working smoke alarms in the home doubles your chances of safely escaping a house fire? That’s according to the National Fire Protection Association. This spring, Kidde, a pioneer in early smoke detection for over 100 years, is highlighting the importance of keeping your smoke and CO alarms up to date. Here’s what they want you to know:

• Install devices throughout the house, on every level including the living room, kitchen, bedrooms, hallways, basement and garage. It’s also a good idea to keep fire extinguishers in the kitchen, basement, laundry room and garage.

• Smoke and CO devices aren’t just plastic boxes – they’re sophisticated mini-computers. Their sensors and circuits constantly analyze air particles, and like any computer, dust and neglect can inhibit their functionality. Clean your alarms this spring, and regularly after that, to help prevent false alarms. Use compressed air or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush to clean the vents, and then wipe the device with a dry microfiber cloth.

• Smoke and CO alarms are electronic devices with sensors and circuits that wear out over time. It’s recommended to replace them every 5 to 10 years depending on the model. You can determine whether it’s time to replace or upgrade your alarms by looking at the manufacturing date. Be sure to opt for self-testing devices that help ensure the alarms are operating as expected, like the Kidde Smoke Alarm, 10-Year Battery Powered or the Combo Smoke CO Alarm, 10-Year Battery Powered, which last a full decade. Kidde’s Detect line of devices offer revolutionary technology that provides fast, precise smoke detection, giving individuals and families more time to react and get to safety. The line also prioritizes enhanced sensing technology, which helps to reduce those nuisance alarms that can lead to consumers disabling their devices.

Remember, a self-testing device is not a substitute for a manual push test. No matter what style devices you have in your home, be sure to take time this spring to manually test them, and then monthly after that.

More information about fire and CO safety can be found by visiting https://www. kidde.com.

“A happy, healthy home starts with safety. Make sure your fire and carbon monoxide detectors are part of your seasonal refresh routine: clean them, test them, and replace any units that have reached their limit,” says Isis Wu, president of Global Residential Fire & Safety at Kidde.

Ready, Set, Spring: 5 Smart Early-Season Yard Tips

(Feature Impact) As the days lengthen and warm air has you ready to get your patio furniture out of storage, that means it’s time to give your yard a fresh start. With a little planning now, you’ll be rewarded with a fuller, greener and easier-to-maintain outdoor space once spring is in full bloom.

1. Start With a Clean Slate

Winter leaves behind plenty of debris, including fallen branches and matted leaves. Before you start planting, take a walk around your yard and tidy up:

• Rake moisture-trapping twigs and leaves that can cause fungus

• Remove dead plants or spent annuals from flower beds

• Sweep or power wash patios and walkways

2. Tune Up Tools

Digging into yard work only to find rusty shears or a squeaky mower can prolong the task. Instead, ensure your tools are in good working order:

• Sharpen blades on lawn mowers, shears and pruners

• Install fresh string on trimmers and weed eaters

• Replace old fuel or clean air filters on gas-powered tools

3. Assess Your Lawn

Early spring is ideal for noticing how winter treated your grass. Dethatching and aeration can go a long way toward helping grass absorb nutrients. Set the stage for lush growth once warmer weather arrives by looking for:

• Bare patches that need reseeding

• Weeds making an early debut

• Compacted soil where water pools instead of soaking in

4. Give Plants the Right Start

Now’s the time to prep beds for new life. Before you plant:

• Loosen soil and mix in compost for nutrients

• Add mulch around perennials

• Plan your planting based on sun and shade patterns

5. Hydrate Wisely

Strong roots start with proper hydration. Even before sprigs pop up, early spring can be dry as the sun gets higher. Remember to:

• Water flowerbeds if rainfall has been scarce

• Check irrigation systems for damage

• Mulch lightly after soil warms to lock in moisture

Getting your yard ready early in spring isn’t about perfection; it’s about setting yourself up for outdoor enjoyment all season long. Find more tips to get your yard in shape at eLivingtoday.com.

Source: eLivingtoday.com

Spring Cleaning Your Kitchen? Here’s How to Keep Bugs Out

(StatePoint) With warmer weather here, spring cleaning and hosting season are in full swing. While you prep your home for guests, you may also be seeing an uptick of insect activity.

Unfortunately, insects tend to gather in the same areas of the home where household members and guests do – anywhere there is food. So, rather than let bugs disrupt your spring gatherings, act right away. Doing so is important, as insects reproduce rapidly. In fact, it only takes one week for two fruit flies to multiply to 500 fruit flies!

By using these tips to banish bugs from your kitchen this spring, you can enjoy the feeling you get when your space is truly clean and guest-ready:

Do a deep clean

In addition to regular kitchen upkeep, be sure to do a deep clean in spring and every time you host. This is a great way to finally tackle those corners, crevices and seldomaddressed surfaces in the fridge, oven and pantry, where pest-attracting food residue and grease can build up.

Catch what you can’t clean

A fly trap for indoors is a necessary addition to your kitchen spring cleaning and hosting routine. Zevo catches what you can’t clean – working continuously to trap those pesky flies and gnats that linger around sinks, trash cans, and countertops even after you’ve scrubbed. Simply plug in a Zevo Flying Insect Trap near high-traffic areas, such as near party spreads, fruit bowls or garbage, and doors that are opened throughout the day. Its blue and UV light attract and catch fruit flies, gnats, house flies and other flying insects 24/7 and its sleek, discreet design will look good in your kitchen.

“Plugging in a Zevo Insect Trap is an easy way to achieve that level of cleanliness you’re looking for, so you have more time for what matters – enjoying the spring season with friends and family,” says Rob Reinerman, Vice President of Procter & Gamble Ventures, parent company of Zevo, a line of worry-free pest solutions.

Fix leaks

If you have a leak under your kitchen sink, you may unwittingly be creating an inviting habitat for bugs, which are drawn to water sources. Fix the leak so you invite only human guests to your kitchen and home this spring. Doing so will have the added benefit of preventing water damage and mold.

Seal food tightly

Take a quick look at your pantry to assess your food storage containers. Transfer all items like flour and sugar out of paper packaging and into tightly-sealed jars. Not only will this help keep bugs at bay, but your essential ingredients will stay fresher for improved hosting.

For more information about pest control in the kitchen and other areas of your home, visit zevoinsect.com.

Maintaining a tidy kitchen is just the first step in banishing bugs. Simple additional measures that require very little effort can help you truly keep the spaces where you prep, host, and enjoy your food clean, fresh and insect-free.

Now is the Time to Give Your Mower a Tune-Up

(StatePoint) As the weather starts to turn in early spring, giving your mower a tune-up is a must for performance, safety and efficiency.

“Before the spring season truly kicks off, take stock of your mower’s maintenance needs. Paying a bit of attention to your machine now will set you up for a smooth and easy cutting season, and extend the life of your mower,” says Exmark marketing manager, Lenny Mangnall.

In addition to consulting your owner’s manual to determine tasks specific to your model, you can also follow this checklist from Exmark to make sure your mower is in top shape:

1. Change the oil. A healthy engine is a happy engine.

2. Sharpen or replace blades. Fresh blades cut faster, smoother and cleaner.

3. Give the mower a deep clean. Use a putty knife to remove caked grass from under the deck.

4. Replace old fuel. Never use fuel left in the tank from the last season.

5. Check on the tires. Low tire pressure is a performance issue and a safety hazard.

6. Inspect engine belts. Check belt tension and wear to help your engine perform at its best.

7. Replace spark plugs. Fresh spark plugs help your mower start and run smoothly. For additional details and instructions on each item on this checklist, read the full article “Is Your Lawn Mower Ready for Spring?” The article can be found at Exmark’s Backyard Life, a unique multimedia destination focused on helping homeowners improve their outdoor living spaces. There you can find more articles, DIY project ideas, and view Exmark Original Series videos on topics ranging from lawn and grass care to gardening, landscaping and even fishing and barbecuing.

Work smarter, not harder in your yard. Give your mower a little love at the start of the season to help ensure you get reliable performance all spring and summer.

Save the Date: Secret Garden Tour

Announces June 2026 Tour Dates

Join the Benefactors of the Arts for the June 2026 Secret Garden Tours. Take a self guided walking tour through Newport, RI’s historic Point section June 26-28 for the 42nd Annual Tour.

The tours run daily from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and tickets are limited with only 350 to be sold for each day. In Spring 2014, Conde Nast Traveler Magazine named Newport, Rhode Island “one of the best walking cities in the U.S.” and specifically mentioned The Secret Garden Tour through the city’s historic Point section as one of the highlights.

Tickets are now available for the 2026 Tours and can be purchased in advance online at www.secretgardentours.org for a discounted rate of $35. Be sure to check the Facebook page www. facebook.com/SecretGardenTours for updates, events, beautiful garden photos and more.

Since 1984, the organizers and supporters of The Secret Garden Tour have been dedicated to enhancing art education and cultural programs in Aquidneck Island’s Public Schools, funding dozens of programs in music, theater and fine arts for local schoolchildren. To date, The Secret Garden Tour has given more than $1 million to Aquidneck Island students in public schools for cultural programs and the arts.

For additional information, be sure to visit the website: www. secretgardentour.s.org.

Tree & Landscape SCHULTHEISS

SCOUTING AROUND

News from Seekonk Scouts

Seekonk Troop 1 and Troop 9 Scouts worked on swimming and water rescue skills at the Boys and Girls Club in East Providence, Rhode Island. Several scouts earned their swimming merit badge by demonstrating the ability to tread water, float, and swim multiple laps without rest. Scouts also took their annual swim test in preparation for their summer trip to Camp Yawgoog.

Seekonk Scouts recently completed a six mile hike at Diamond Hill in Cumberland, Rhode Island. Scouts enjoyed warm weather while also learning plant identification and signs of animal life.

Seekonk Scouts continue to work on rank requirements such as physical fitness. Scouts are planning this year’s summer adventures such as mountain biking trips in the local area, their annual trip to Camp Yawgoog, and their trip to Seabase High Adventure in Islamorada, Florida for April, 2027.

Two Troop 1 Scouts were recognized for their hardworking earning their Eagle rank. Approximately, four percent of scouts reach the rank of Eagle.

For more information about Scouts, contact Troop1SeekonkMA@gmail.com for boys or Troop9SeekonkMA@gmail.com for girls. Scouting is open to all boys and girls between the ages of 11 and 17. Follow us on Social Media for Scouting events, fundraising, and Eagle Scout projects happening around town: Troop 1 Seekonk and Troop 9 Seekonk.

SCHOOL

Ollie's Angels Foundation Presentation

Ollie’s Angels Foundation Shares Elana Korey’s Story Publicly for the First Time at Seekonk High School to raise awareness to stop impaired driving

On March 10, 2026, Ollie’s Angels Foundation reached a significant milestone when Robert and Alice Korey spoke publicly as a Victim Family for the first time, sharing their daughter Elana’s story with more than 250 juniors and seniors at Seekonk High School. Elana was killed by an impaired driver on July 28, 2024 — eight days before she was to return to the University of Arkansas for her junior year.

The event was chaired by Michelle Haley of MADD Massachusetts and held in the school gymnasium. In a moment of meaningful symbolism, the Korey family noted that the school’s mascot — the Warriors — was also the mascot of Alice’s own high school in Georgia, providing unexpected strength as they stepped forward to tell Elana’s story for the very first time.

Robert and Alice shared Elana’s passions, her academic journey at the University of Arkansas, attending Duxbury High School prior, her sorority involvement, her friendships, and her love of helping others. They also spoke about her cherished golden retriever, Ollie — the inspiration behind the foundation’s name and Elana’s constant companion during the summer before her passing. Their message focused not on sympathy, but on education, prevention, and purpose — a call to action to prevent other families from experiencing such devastating loss.

Students were especially moved by TikTok videos Elana had created — clips of her dancing, shopping for school, and laughing with friends. Seeing her vibrant personality made the tragedy painfully real, and many were brought to tears as they recognized themselves and their peers in her videos. The foundation collected more than 50 student survey responses, many describing how the Korey’s’ message reshaped their thinking about impaired driving and personal responsibility.

The presentation also highlighted the foundation’s Game Changer Program, which empowers student-athletes from universities including Arkansas, Princeton, Kansas, Vermont, Drexel, and Boston College to use their platforms to speak out against impaired driving. Their peer-to-peer advocacy is already making an impact among high school and college audiences.

The program concluded with a video message from ESPN reporter Heather Dinich, a member of MADD’s Advisory Board, featuring the now-iconic “Catch a Safe Ride” football — a national symbol of awareness that has participated in over 100 moments to stop impaired driving. In a standout moment, Seekonk quarterback Nico Bonafiglia stepped out of the bleachers to throw spirals with Robert Korey, embodying the foundation’s call to step off the sidelines, take action, and speak up when someone is at risk of driving impaired.

The event was professionally filmed by Tommy Colbert and will be shared across Ollie’s Angels Foundation platforms in the coming weeks.

About Ollie’s Angels Foundation

Ollie’s Angels Foundation is dedicated to honoring the life and legacy of Elana Korey through education, advocacy, and community engagement. The foundation works to prevent impaired driving, support youth awareness programs, and inspire positive choices that

save lives. Through initiatives like the Game Changer Program and Project 802: Catch a Safe Ride — a discounted rideshare program designed to remove the cost barriers that lead to impaired driving — the foundation transforms grief into goodness and pain into purpose.

For more information, visit Ollies-Angels.org

Above photos from the presentation at SHS

Beckwith Middle School Competes In The Annual Massasoit League Math Meet

Beckwith Middle School competed in the annual Massasoit League Math Meet at Somerset High School on March 20th. Congratulations to Avery Ferreira, Julian Soares, Mackenzie Warren, Eliot Crowshaw, and Clive Tavares for participating in their first math meet. All five students gave their best effort as they competed both

individually and as a team against six other schools. A special congratulations goes to Julian Soares, who tied for 3rd place overall among all participants. Great work by everyone on a fun and competitive season!

Confused about how to safely socialize and train your puppy? We are here to teach your puppy to become the best social and well-mannered dog he can be!

Get started right away with flexible Puppy Kindergarten classes and multiple Puppy Socials each week for safe socialization and training! Join our friendly community of dog lovers for fun and support!

Beckwith Middle School Math Team

Three Seekonk Students Excel at RI Conference

St. Mary Academy — Bay View Students Earn Top Marks at Rhode Island Career and Development Conference

Students Lauren Adamonis, Yiling Brady and Marya Cheema from Seekonk place in top 20 Riverside, RI – In its very first year as an official DECA chapter, St. Mary Academy – Bay View made an extraordinary debut at the Rhode Island Career and Development Conference (RICDC). Ten students competed on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Johnson & Wales University, joining more than 700 students from 21 schools across the state. Every Bay View competitor placed in the top 25 of their respective events, an impressive accomplishment for the school’s inaugural year in the international business organization.

DECA is an international organization whose mission is to prepare emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management in high schools and colleges around the globe. Students competing at RICDC were evaluated through a combination of written exams and live role-play scenarios. Competitors were given 15 minutes to prepare for their role-play presentations without the use of outside resources before presenting to judges.

Yiling Brady ‘27, of Seekonk, MA, earned second place in the Principles of Entrepreneurship competition. This placement secures the student's qualifications for the International Career Development Conference in Atlanta this April.

“The students in this club learn about a variety of business topics, practice role-play scenarios and then compete at the state level against other teams,” said Hannah Pease, advisor to Bay View’s DECA chapter and Chair of the Mathematics Department, who accompanied students to the conference. “Most of our students competed individually, though one pair participated in a team event. I am incredibly proud of how they represented Bay View in our very first year.”

This year marks Bay View’s inaugural year as a DECA chapter. The program was launched largely through the initiative of senior Lauren Adamonis of Seekonk, MA. After seeing the impact of DECA chapters at other schools, Lauren approached Pease about establishing a chapter at Bay View. Thanks to her leadership and determination, the chapter now has 16 active members, with 10 students competing at this year’s state conference.

Bay View looks forward to building on this early success as the chapter continues to grow, and as Minca and Brady prepare to represent the school on the international stage this spring.

to Right:

9, Providence), Lauren Adamonis (Gr 12, Seekonk)

Left

Ifeoluwa Osunde (Gr 9, Providence), Marya Cheema (Gr 11, Seekonk), Mackenzie Daly (Gr 10, Lincoln), Yiling Brady (Gr 11, Seekonk), Theodora Minca (Gr 11, Providence), Lily Goodwin (Gr 11, Coventry), Arfa Haseeb (Gr 11, Lincoln), Kenzie Mooney (Gr 10, Pawtucket), Ava Pizzuti (Gr

Riverside, RI – Last month, Bay View’s Middle School Robotics Team took home the Innovation Project Award from the FIRST LEGO League state championship held at Ponaganset Middle School. This award recognized their contribution to this year’s challenge, “Unearthed”, which focused on obstacles archeologists may face in their field.

The FIRST LEGO League introduces students from Pre-K through Grade 8 to the world of science and technology. Through hands-on challenges using LEGO robotics tools, students build problem-solving abilities, creativity and leadership skills. Each year, the program releases a new theme that guides students’ exploration and inspires innovative thinking. This year’s theme focuses on expanding students’ awareness of the field of archeology in the hopes of building a better future today.

Bay View’s Team S.M.A.R.T., composed of 10 students, decided to focus on the problem of transporting historical artifacts without damaging them. Their idea was to encase artifacts in alginate, a natural, seaweed-based material that hardens in two to four minutes and can be easily peeled off or kept on for longer preservation, to prepare them for transport.

To improve their idea, students reached out to Rhode Island archeologists for advice. Six archeologists responded to their initial contact and additional follow-up questions. Students took their advice and adjusted their alginate box to only be used for transport between museums.

“This year, the challenge was made up of the robot game, innovation project, robot design and core values,” Valerie Briden, advisor to the Robotics Team said. “This challenge exposed us to many problems archeologists face and made us realize that, as individuals, we all bring something different to the team. The team works hard, but most importantly we just always have fun.”

Members of Team S.M.A.R.T. include Mishka Basu ‘30 (Cumberland), Grace Beckerman ‘30 (Providence), Kaylee Collins ‘30 (Pawtucket), Sophia Donaldson ‘30 (Warwick), Violet Grant ‘30 (Rumford), Maddie Hills ‘30 (Rumford), Helen Messitt ‘30 (East Providence), Margot Palmaccio ‘30 (Seekonk, MA), Sana Zaryan ‘30 (Lincoln) and Adae Zerit ‘30 (Pawtucket).

The Innovation Project Award recognizes a team’s ability to

present a creative and well-developed solution, use diverse resources and effectively communicate their idea to the judges and community.

SATURDAY, MAY 2ND, 2026

Kneeling: Madeleine Hills, Sophia Donaldson, Sana Zaryan, Grace Beckerman and Mishika Basu.

Back Row: Kaylee Collins, Violet Grant, Helen Messitt, Adae Zerit and Margot Palmaccio.

Food & Dining Guide

Lighten Up: Fresh Spring Meals That Won’t Weigh You Down

(Feature Impact) To find more light spring recipe ideas, visit SuccessRice.com.

Shrimp Pearl Couscous Salad

Prep time: 10 minutes ~ Cook time: 15 minutes ~ Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 bag Success Pearl Couscous

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 tablespoon seasoned salt

• 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided

• 1 can (14 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 English cucumber, diced

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

• 1/4 cup red onions, finely chopped

• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1/2 cup feta, crumbled

Directions:

Prepare pearl couscous according to package directions.

In medium bowl, toss shrimp with seasoned salt.

In large saucepan over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon oil. Add shrimp and cook 5 minutes. If necessary, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding pan.

In another large pan, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium heat. Add chickpeas and cook 8 minutes until crispy and golden, tossing often. Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika and salt. Toss to fully coat and cook 2 minutes.

In large bowl, combine pearl couscous, shrimp, chickpeas, cucumbers, tomatoes, basil, red onion, dill, lemon juice and remaining olive oil. Toss to combine. Garnish with feta.

Pearl Couscous and Chickpea Salad

Prep time: 5 minutes ~ Cook time: 10 minutes ~ Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 bag Success Pearl Couscous

• 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tablespoon za’atar

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Directions:

Prepare pearl couscous according to package directions.

In large bowl, combine couscous, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, parsley and za’atar.

Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. Toss until well combined.

Serve warm or at room temperature.

Source: Success Rice

Simple, Convenient, Time-Saving Snacks for Busy Families

(Feature Impact) When every afternoon feels like a race to the dinner table and weekends are a blur of activities, there’s only one way to keep loved ones from getting “hangry”: easy, delicious appetizers and snacks. Keeping a few must-have ingredients in the pantry can help you avoid those dreaded moments between meals when stomachs are growling and a meal feels so close, yet so far away.

If you’re craving a quick, savory bite, look no further than these Cheesy Mexican Rice Bites. They’re prepared in just 20 minutesbut don’t be surprised if you find yourself making a second batch afterward. Featuring a touch of heat from Minute Jalapeno Rice Cups that are conveniently pre-portioned and ready in one minute, you can enjoy minimal cleanup while staving off hunger.

Classic Porcupine Meatballs offer another versatile solution as a make-ahead snack before busy weekends. For first-timers, here’s a secret: meatballs aren’t as tricky to make as they might look. Just mix the ingredients, form meatballs by hand and cook in a pot until ready to enjoy, or refrigerate then reheat once you’re home from Saturday’s soccer games.

Since these are “porcupine” meatballs, that means they’re made with Minute Instant White Rice rather than traditional breadcrumbs. Known for its light fluffiness and easy prep, it’s ready in just 5 minutes. With this dish, however, it’s simply added to the meatballs straight from the box.

Visit MinuteRice.com to find more convenient snack ideas that save time and trouble in the kitchen.

Cheesy Mexican Rice Bites

Prep time: 5 minutes ~ Cook time: 15 minutes ~ Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 1 Minute Jalapeno Rice Cup

• 1/4 cup diced onions

• 1/2 teaspoon cumin

• 1/2 cup Mexican cheese blend, shredded

• 1 egg, beaten

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

• nonstick cooking spray

• salsa (optional)

• sour cream (optional)

Directions

Preheat air fryer to 375 F. Heat rice according to package directions.

In large mixing bowl, combine rice, diced onions, cumin and Mexican cheese blend. Mix well.

Add beaten egg to rice mixture and stir until fully combined. Using hands, shape about 2 tablespoons rice mixture into ball. Repeat with remaining mixture.

Roll rice balls in breadcrumbs, ensuring they are fully coated. Lightly coat air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Place rice bites in single layer in air fryer basket, leaving space between each for even cooking. Work in batches, if necessary. Spray tops of each ball with nonstick cooking spray to help with browning.

Cook 15 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp, flipping halfway through for even browning.

Allow to cool slightly and serve with salsa or sour cream, if desired.

• 1 pound lean ground beef

• 1 cup Minute White Rice, plus additional for serving, cooked

• 1 egg, lightly beaten

• 1 packet (1 1/2 ounces) meatloaf seasoning

• 1 1/4 cups water, divided

• 1 jar (24 ounces) pasta sauce

• grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

In 3-quart saucepan over medium-high heat, melt butter. Add onions and cook, stirring, until starting to soften.

In large bowl, combine onions, beef, 1 cup uncooked rice, egg, seasoning and 1/4 cup water; mix gently by hand until well blended. Shape mixture into medium-sized meatballs.

Pour pasta sauce and remaining water into same 3-quart saucepan. Stir and bring to boil. Add meatballs and return to boil. Reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer 15 minutes, or until meatballs are cooked through.

Serve meatballs and sauce over extra cooked rice and top with grated Parmesan cheese.

Substitution: Ground turkey, chicken or meatless ground can be used in place of beef.

Source: Minute Rice

Porcupine Meatballs

Prep time: 10 minutes ~ Cook time: 20 minutes ~ Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

Cheesy Mexican Rice Bites

In Rememberance

Jacqueline A. Williams

Jacqueline A. Williams

Jacqueline A. Williams, 83, of Rehoboth, formerly of Warren, died peacefully on April 1, 2026 at Country Gardens Health & Rehabilitation Center. Born in Cleveland, OH, she was the daughter of the late William E. Davenport and Adda G. (McFetridge) Davenport.

Jacqueline owned and operated The Wren & Thistle Antique Shop in Warren for many years until her retirement. She was also a member and former president of the Antique Dealers Association in Warren. Jacqueline

raised her 4 children on Perryville Road in Rehoboth, MA where she was known for her love of gardening, crafts and community activities. She leaves her loving children: Karen W. Salois & her husband Michael of Rehoboth, Kimberly B. Williams of Inman, SC, James C. Williams of Rehoboth, & Ryan W. Williams of Connecticut. Cherished grandmother of Lea E. Hurrell of Dighton, Sydney J. Fardella of South Africa, Francesca E. Williams of Manchester, NH, Carter M. Ballew of Inman, SC, John R. Williams of Rehoboth, Michael J. Salois of Austin, TX, Amanda L. Salois of Riverside, Alexandra C. Salois of Mattapoisett, and great-grandmother of Glenney Hurrell and Theodore Salois.

Her funeral and burial in Rehoboth Village Cemetery will be private.

Arrangements are in the care of the Home of J.H. WILLIAMS & CO., 210 Taunton Avenue, East Providence, RI.

Glenda Grace (Carr) Sousa

November 27, 1951 – January 27, 2026

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Glenda Sousa, who passed away peacefully on January 27, 2026, at the age of 74.

Glenda was deeply loved by her family and will be remembered for her warmth, her strong spirit, and for the steady love she gave to those she held dear. She grew up in Pawtucket, RI and worked at Texas Instruments for 25 years, where she was known

for her dedication and strong work ethic. She enjoyed car shows, trips to the casino, and spending time with her grandchildren.

She is survived by her loving husband of 50 years, James Sousa, her son Daniel Sousa and his wife Jennifer Sousa, their children Alexandra, William and John Sousa. Her daughter Amy Sousa and her son Adeyn Matos. She also leaves behind her sisters Terrie Carr, Susan Gray, Debbie Vargas and Ginny Wilson, and her brother Mike Carr; and was preceded in death by her sister Joanne Lounge, and her parents Joseph and Glenna Carr.

A service will be held at Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Exeter, RI at a later date.

Glenda will be missed beyond words and loved always.

Death Notices Rehoboth

• Joyce B. (Beard) Braun, 87, of Rehoboth, MA, formerly of Attleboro, MA, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on February 20, 2026.

Andrew J. Correia, MBIE; President/Funeral Director

• Julie Bauer, 89, of Rehoboth, died peacefully at home on Monday, March 16th, 2026. Funeral arrangements made through Silva Funeral Home in Taunton, MA.

Seekonk

• James A. Hall, 89, a Seekonk resident died on February 1, 2026.~ Military Veteran ~

• Roger A. Graham, 77, formerly of Seekonk, passed away on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.

~ Military Veteran ~

• Michael C. Traynor 88, of Seekonk passed away March 5, 2026.

• Linda (Johnson) Fasteson, 73, of Seekonk, MA, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2026, after a courageous battle with ovarian cancer.

• Lucia Fontes-Borts, 67, of Seekonk, MA, passed away on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at Rhode Island Hospital.

• Russell H. Golombiewski, 75, of Seekonk, MA, passed away Sat, March 14, 2026.

• Eleanor W. Mulvey, 87 of Seekonk, passed away on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.

Glenda Sousa

Dave Says

When is Enough…You Know… Enough?

Dear Dave,

I’m 65-years old, and I work part-time. My wife is 59, and she works full-time earning about $160,000 a year. We’re both selfemployed, so at what point do we stop buying term life insurance? I have a $500,000 policy, and we have $500,000 in savings. We’re debt-free, except for two car loans that total $25,000.

— Franklin

Dear Franklin,

Okay, first let’s clean up those car loans. With your combined incomes, plus the money you two have in savings, there’s no reason to have car payments hanging around your necks. Aside from that, you’re in pretty good shape.

When it comes to life insurance, you should ask yourself some questions: Why am I buying this? Who am I trying to help with it? How much will they need? Life insurance is all about taking good care of the folks you leave behind.

It sounds to me like you’ve done a good job of looking out for your wife. If you passed away anytime soon, God forbid, she’d have a half-million in insurance money, plus an income of $160,000 a year. On top of all that, there’s another $500,000 already in the bank, plus a paid for home. She wouldn’t exactly have to struggle financially, would she? Now, if she passed away first (again, God forbid) you’d still have half-a-million in savings, plus a house that’s paid for. And don’t forget your part-time income.

Guess what, Franklin? At this point, you two are very close to being self-insured. On the other hand, if you want to spend a little money on a term policy for your wife over the next few years—and you can do so and still continue to build your nest egg—that’s okay, too.

— Dave

* Dave Ramsey is a nine-time national bestselling author, personal finance expert and host of The Ramsey Show. He has appeared on Good Morning America, CBS This Morning, Today, Fox News, CNN, Fox Business and many more. Since 1992, Dave has helped people take control of their money, build wealth and enhance their lives. He also serves as CEO for Ramsey Solutions.

BACK PAIN THE TRUTH ABOUT

Don’t Even Think of Taking Another Pain Pill Until You Read This

Do you Have Any of the Following Conditions?

• Lower Back Pain or Sciatica

• Muscle spasms or strains

• Bulging Cervical or Lumbar Disc

• Numbness or soreness in your Arms or Legs

• Shooting Hip or Leg pain

Having back and leg pain brings life to a standstill. You might not be able to play golf, work, or sit in a car for a thirty-minute drive. It’s almost impossible for anyone around you to understand how you feel. You can’t remember the last time you even had a restful night sleep. You’ve got too many dreams left undone to let back pain slow you down, too many special moments waiting to be experienced. Life is too short to let pain slow you down.

Pain is your body’s warning sign telling you something is wrong. Sure, you can numb the pain if you take enough Vicodin, Soma or some other pill. If you mask the pain, it can prevent your back from healing – maybe even damage it further, not to mention many of the pain medications available are quite addicting and can have devastating side effects. Could This Be The Solution To Your Back Pain?

My Name is Dr. Rodger Lincoln, owner of Providence Disc Centers Pawtucket One of our treatments of choice is Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression. Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression has helped thousands of people relieve themselves of chronic and debilitating neck and back pain. Back or Neck Pain is just not a part of life.

Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression has been around for years and has been used to help everyone from the weekend athletes to physical laborers to a wide variety of many patients.

Even top sports stars from Major League Baseball, National Football & Professional Golfers use Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression. These professional athletes have the money to hire any kind of doctor they want, yet they choose to have Non-Surgical

86% of ruptured intervertebral disc patients achieved good (50-89% improvement) to excellent (90-100% improvement with decompression. Sciatica and back pain were relieved. American Journal of Pain Management Vol.7 No2, April 1997 “Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Therapy gives my patients a more conservative treatment option that can eliminate the need for surgery.”

– Dr. Bernard Zeliger, DO,

Spinal Decompression.

What this means is just in a matter of weeks you could be enjoying a pain free life.

Have a Professional Evaluation of Your Back or Neck For Only $47. For 14 days only, I am running a very special offer where you can find out how much this amazing treatment can help you with neck or back pain. What does this offer include? Everything I normally do in my New Patient Examination for only $47. Just call before the 21st of this month and here is what you will receive. An indepth consultation, spinal exam, xrays so we can start mapping out your plan to being pain free again.

Providence Disc Centers Pawtucket 401 -325-7125

Find Peace and Comfort in Knowing Your Back is Healed Without Drugs or Surgery.

You will get to see everything first hand and find out if this amazing treatment will be your back pain solution like it has for so many patients.

The normal price for this type of evaluation which includes x-rays and a report of findings is much more than $47 saving you a considerable amount of money. Non-Surgical Decompression very well could be the answer you have been looking for. Call today and we can get you started with your consultation, exam and xrays as soon as there is an opening on the schedule.

We are Providence Disc Centers of America (Pawtucket, East Prov) and we are located at 192 Newport Ave Pawtucket, 2728 Pawtucket Ave E. Prov (401-325 -7125). Tell the receptionist about this offer and that you would like to schedule an appointment.

I look forward to helping you get rid of your pain so you can start living a healthier, more joyful life.

P.S. How many years can your body handle taking pills? The longer you wait the worse your condition gets. Taking pain medication (even over the counter pills) is no way to live. Pills don’t fix the problem; they just numb the pain. Finding the problem and fixing it has got to be your top priority. I may be able to help you live a normal pain free life again. Visit my website for more information.

www.ProvidenceDiscCenters.com

Estate Planning Basics

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

The topic of estate planning is expansive. I am going to cover some of the basic documents and considerations. Please note that I am not an attorney and cannot provide legal advice. It is critical to involve an attorney in your estate planning, and I recommend going to one that specializes in estate planning.

Health Care Proxy. A health care proxy (also known as a Medical Power of Attorney) designates someone to make medical decisions if you are unable to do so for yourself. This is often a spouse, partner, parent or sibling. It is generally recommended that this individual live close to you, if possible, for logistical reasons.

HIPAA Authorization. Many Health Care Proxies include HIPPA authorizations. If not, you may want to consider creating these as well. HIPAA Authorizations give permission for medical providers to release medical information about you to designated people. Local providers may want you to fill out their version of this as well.

Durable Power of Attorney. This document designates someone that can manage your finances if you are incapacitated. You designate an Attorney-In-Fact that would be able to pay bills, access your bank accounts and investments and perform other financial duties. Most powers of attorney are set up to be in force immediately. If this is the case, it is obviously important that you trust the individual as they could steal your money if they wanted to. You can also have a power of attorney that does not become effective until you are incapacitated.

Will. Everyone should have a will. If you own a home or have minor children, it is critical that you have one. Probably the most important function of a will is to designate who will take care of your children if you pass away. If you are married, this generally is your spouse. But it is also important to designate a backup guardian, in the event you both pass away. A will also provides direction on where your assets will go at your death. Please note that a will does NOT allow your assets to pass probate-free. If your asset does not

have a designated beneficiary, it will need to be probated, but your will provides directions to the court and executor. An obvious example of why you need a will is to tell the court who receives your house. You can also include other items like cars, jewelry, etc. It is possible to pass assets without probate through a trust. It is also possible to include instructions in your will to establish a trust at your death, known as a testamentary trust. A trust might be important if you have minor children and you do not want them to have full access to their inheritance at age 21.

Beneficiary Designations. Something very effective and very simple to put in place is designated beneficiaries. This allows many assets to pass to your beneficiaries without being probated. If a specific asset has a beneficiary designation, it supersedes any direction in your will. Retirement assets (IRAs, annuities, 401k plans, etc.) can have a beneficiary, as well as life insurance policies. Brokerage investment accounts don’t always have a beneficiary, but can be added. This is called a Transfer On Death, or TOD, account. You can also ask your bank to make your account Payable On Death, or POD.

Ownership. Bank accounts, brokerage accounts and real estate can also be owned with another person, called Joint With Rights of Survivorship (JWROS). If this type of ownership is in place, it will automatically pass to the other person if one person passes. There are other forms of ownership as well, which are outside of the scope of this article.

We will go deeper on some more advanced estate planning considerations next month.

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

Lars Lambrecht

SPORTS UPDATE

Spring Green 2026 Season: D-R and Seekonk Kick Off New Campaigns

By Mikey Alves

As an eventful local winter sports season for the communities of Dighton-Rehoboth and Seekonk have come to an end— the spring season will have plenty of more fun in store for these two towns until the end of the school year come late June. As the weather begins to warm up (not consistently of course) and the school year enters its final stretch, both Dighton-Rehoboth and Seekonk are gearing up for competitive and exciting spring campaigns across multiple sports: baseball, softball, lacrosse, tennis, volleyball, and track. Teams are all looking to build momentum early and establish themselves as the top contenders in their respective conferences. Young underclassmen talent are stepping into bigger roles and experienced players— especially seniors giving it their very last go— aim to lead by example as each program feels like they have something to prove. Bitter annual rivalries, exciting matchups, and stellar performances are sure to define the season as both communities support and rally behind their hard-working student-athletes in pursuit of successful spring sports seasons in 2026.

Here. We. Go!

Dighton-Rehoboth has named lacrosse senior Cullin Craffey and girls tennis senior Mia Saviolakis as the school’s students of the month for March. Craffey was recognized for his outstanding leadership, positive influence, and supporting the youth lacrosse program within the community. Saviolakis was commended for her dedication, leadership, and continued excellence within the girls tennis program— especially being an outstanding leader and helping her younger teammates develop successfully.

Seekonk girls indoor track team accomplished some outstanding feats recently. Track stars Hayden Robinson, Julianna Dutra, Olive McCann, and Emily Cloutier all competed at nationals in March.

Elias Kaba From Seekonk Wins Bronze

National Fencing Tournament

Cleveland, Oh, March 6-9, 2026

Elias Kaba from Seekonk collected a bronze medal in Division II Men’s Epee at the latest North American Cup (NAC) fencing tournament held March 6-9, 2026, in Cleveland, OH. The March NAC was sixth in a series of major, national events organized for specific age groups and ability levels. Division II in fencing requires participants to hold a national rating of “C” or under; ratings range from “A” at the highest to “E.” Other competitive categories at the NAC included events for fencers aged fourteen, twelve, or ten years old and under.

Elias showed both skill and determination in reaching his 3rd place victory. He defeated all opponents in the pool round and emerged first out of 180 fencers going into direct elimination. His first two victorious DE bouts were quite competitive with scores of fifteen to twelve and, a close one, fifteen to fourteen. Elias’ next three DE’s were much more comfortable with winning scores of thirteen to five, fourteen to six, and fifteen to six. In the semifinal round, he met the eventual event gold medalist and missed advancing to the gold medal bout by a single point.

Elias has accumulated other top three medals in competitions this season—a gold in October at a Junior Olympic qualifier and a silver 2nd place medal at a Regional Youth Circuit event in December. He earned a “B” rating with a top 16 victory in February at the classic Beanpot Open sponsored, unsurprisingly, by Boston Fencing Club. Elias was still eligible for Division II competition at the NAC as he held a “C” in January when the registration period ended for Cleveland.

Elias trains at East Providence facility of the Rhode Island Fencing Academy & Club and leads the youth epee team with his record of accomplishments.

Elias Kaba

Notable Seekonk girls star track runners group picture with New Balance sign at nationals. Olive McCann (far left), Hayden Robinson (center left), Emily Cloutier (center right), & Julianna Dutra (far right.)

Unified Basketball Team at Beckwith Middle School

The Unified Basketball team at Beckwith Middle School completed a memorable season marked by teamwork, growth, and sportsmanship. With a strong blend of new players and experienced veterans, the team competed proudly against other schools in the Massasoit League, demonstrating both skill and a commitment to inclusion.

Throughout the season, the Beckwith team showed steady improvement and a positive approach to competition, creating an environment where all student-athletes could contribute and succeed. Their efforts reflected the true spirit of Unified Sports, emphasizing collaboration, respect, and community.

The season also marked the culmination of middle school careers for three dedicated 8th graders: Cece Oliveira, Tommy Lefairve, and Hayleigh Guthrie. Each of these student-athletes played an important role in the program, providing leadership and setting a strong example for their teammates.

As they move on to high school, their contributions to the Unified Basketball program and the broader school community will be remembered.

Beckwith Unified Basketball Team

CLASSIFIEDS

FOR SALE

HORSE TRAILER: Kingston Windsor 1998, 2 Horse bumper pull. Very good condition, low miles. Oversized, Anti-corrosive steel frame. Very good tires/new spare. Many extras and safety features. GVW 5,900 pounds, recently serviced and inspected. Rehoboth. $7,250 obo. Call/text 508-269-2600.

FOR RENT

4-car garage for rent in Warren: Perfect for 4 antique cars because of long length and is clean, dry, secure. I am real easy to work with so any garage modifications according to your needs won’t be an issue. $600 per month or best offer. Michael 401-243-4467.

Apartment For Rent: East Providence, 2.5 bedrooms, kitchen, parlor, 3rd floor, $1100 per month, 1st and security. Call John at 401-588-0738.

HELP WANTED

Yard Work Help Wanted in Riverside: Teenage boy or girl to do yard work part time, $15/hr. Call Delphina 401-433-2922.

HELP WANTED: Little Tree Nursery, 1441 Newman Ave. Seekonk, MA. Send resume or qualifications to: LTN1997@aol. com, Full & part time seasonal sales positions, Tree and shrub knowledge preferred, Weekends a Must.

Be Part of a Winning Teaching Team: Teacher Openings at Twin Oaks Farm Learning Center. All positions - Infants, Toddler & Preschool. Small classes, country setting, college opportunities, dental and vision insurance, retirement plans. Curriculum planning and professional support. At Twin Oaks, we want both teachers and children to be happy, kind, and safe. Located at 127 Tremont St, Rehoboth MA. Call 508-252-5522 for your interview.

Help Wanted: Seekonk Flea Market at Seekonk Speedway! Positions available Sundays from March 29th thru December 6th, 2026 from 5am-noon. Looking for general help. Call Linda at 401-263-5737.

EVENTS

Seekonk Flea Market at Seekonk Speedway is open, 7am-1pm every Sunday until December 6th. So many vendors with a large variety of items – there’s something for everyone! Vendors & Patrons welcome and wanted! For more information, call Linda at 401-263-5737.

WANTED

Wanted: Cash paid for your military items. Uniforms, Field Gear, Swords, Knives, Muskets etc. Looking for Revolutionary War, Civil War, WWI, WWII, and Vietnam items. Text or call and/or send photos. 508574-4392.

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.

We do estate cleanouts! Call 774-301-5420

PERSONAL AD

Nice guy looking for a woman: Between 50-60 for companionship, dancing, and dining out. Call Kevin at 401-259-9393.

SERVICES

I am a Personal Care Assistant & Housekeeper willing to help you! I can help you with meal prep, medication reminders, shower assistance, shopping/errands, laundry, light cleaning. Call Terri for information and rates. 774-284-7600.

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.

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 –Tune-ups on all brands. Spring is here! Get your bike tuned up for Spring! 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 service and NEW Spring hours. 401245-9755.

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.