The Rehoboth
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APRIL 2021 Volume 33, no. 4
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2 The Reporter April 2021
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4 The Reporter April 2021
Town News Briefs Seekonk Town Election Monday
By Joe Siegel Voters will head to the polls on Monday to cast ballots in the annual town election. All polling will be conducted at Seekonk High School from 7 am until 8 pm. This year’s contest for two open seats on the Seekonk Board of Selectmen pits incumbents Christopher Zorra and David Viera against challengers Nelson Almeida, Doug Brown, and former Fire Chief Michael Healy. Almeida is a former selectman and Brown has served on multiple town committees including the Water Commission. Almeida said he would offer “fairness and transparency” to the board, and pledges to be a “team player.” Zorra considers himself to be accessible and receptive to his constituents’ needs. “I always try to respond to everyone, whether it’s by phone call or-mail,” Zorra said. “I’m approachable. I’ll work with anyone as long as it’s for the best interest of the town.” Healy and Brown both want to see more frugality with town spending. “I look at things that need to be sustainable,” Healy noted. “We just can’t have everything that we need and want all the time. If we can’t afford it, then we can’t do it.” Brown believes town government has grown too large for its own good: “We have an assistant town administrator at $90,000, we have a deputy fire chief at $100,000, we have a deputy police chief at $120,000. I think that’s over a quarter million dollars for three employees. I would rather see that money spent on services.” Viera, also a former Fire Chief, feels experience in town government is important. “You need the experience,” Viera said. “This is not the time to be bringing inexperienced people onto the Board of Selectmen.” Incumbent school committee members Noah Escaler and Kim Sluter are running for re-election. They are both unopposed. Joseph Chauvin is running unopposed for one three year seat on the Water Commission. Sharon Connors and Cynthia Corbett are running unopposed for two three year seats on the Library Board of Trustees.
Inside This Issue
Business Directory...................................................68 Church News...........................................................41 Classifieds....................................................67 Club Announcements..............................................42 Food & Dining.........................................................56 Home & Garden.......................................................36 Letters.....................................................................5 Library........................................................ Blanding..............................................55 Seekonk......................................................52 Obituaries...........................................................62 People................................................................33 Rehoboth COA.........................................................58 Rehoboth Ramblings...............................................36 Rehoboth Town News.............................................18 School News............................................................44 Seekonk Human Services.......................................60 Seekonk Town News...............................................28 State House.............................................................66
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Rehoboth Town Election Tuesday
By Joe Siegel Rehoboth voters will head to the polls on April 6 to cast ballots in the annual town election. There are contests for Board of Selectmen and Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Committee. Town Clerk Laura Schwall is facing a challenge from former assistant town administrator Kelly Hathaway. All polling will be conducted at Beckwith Middle School from 7 am to 8 pm. The candidates vying for two seats on the Board of Selectmen include Finance Committee chairman Michael Deignan, DightonRehoboth school committee member George Solas, and newcomers Thomas and Sheila Kearns. Deignan, 56, has served on the town’s Finance Committee for the past 12 years, nine of those as chairman. He believes his knowledge of budgets will be an asset to the board. “The finance committee is where you control the growth of government, especially the growth in government spending,” Deignan said. “We’re in a really good place financially. We continue to have some challenges, in particular the growth of the regional school system budget. That puts real budget constraints on us on a yearly basis.” Thomas and Sheila Kearns moved to Rehoboth in 2016 and decided to run for selectmen out of a sense of frustration with the way town government is being run. Thomas is a professor at Massasoit Community College and Sheila handles negotiations with employee unions. Sheila ran unsuccessfully for selectman in Abington in the 1980s. She also served as a secretary on the town’s finance committee. “There are a lot of things going on which shouldn’t be going on,” Thomas said, noting one of the selectmen gave his interpretation of the town bylaws which “wasn’t even close” to what was written. “We think there should be some fresh faces and new ideas” on the board, Sheila said. “I look at the consistency between the schools and the town as being very important,” Solas explained. “My goal is to be able to help the town grow and experience all the new personalities coming into (Rehoboth). Christopher Hoskins, Victoria Silvia, and Katie Ferreira-Aubin are running for two open seats on the school committee. Hoskins is the former chairman of advocacy group, Save Our Schools. Restoring funding for the arts in education is important for Hoskins, who is a musician. He graduated from Dighton-Rehoboth in 2019 and now serves as chairman of the Rehoboth Cultural Council. Silvia, a political newcomer, wants the school committee to improve their communications with the public. “If you weren’t really following everything going on maybe on Facebook or listening in to every meeting, it was hard to really understand what’s going on,” Silvia said. Ferreira-Aubin graduated from Dighton-Rehoboth in 2000 and works as a licensed mental health counselor in Rhode Island. Ferreira-Aubin wants to see more transparency from the school committee, which includes getting information out to the public in a “timely manner.” Schwall, who has served in the position since 2013, said her goal was to make town government “more accessible” to town residents. Schwall also boasts of “successfully conducting three elections and a town meeting during the COVID-19 pandemic while also maintaining all essential services to the public throughout the pandemic.” Hathaway believes town government is in need of an overhaul. “I just think we need a new positive change and different energy within the town hall,” said Hathaway, who served as Assistant Town Administrator from 2015 through 2018. “I loved working for the Town of Rehoboth and I’d like to be back (at town hall) working for our residents,” Hathaway added.
April 2021 The Reporter
Letters to the Editor... The letters in this section and opinion articles do not reflect the views of the staff of The Rehoboth Reporter. It is not our intent to take sides on any issues, but to present all arguments from all points of view. If your point of view is not represented on an issue, it is only because you have not voiced your opinion. Let us hear from YOU!
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Another Industrial Solar Project in Rehoboth: Many Questions; Few Answers
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Let me start by saying I strongly support clean energy including solar . I support such projects if approved in accordance with Town laws and bylaws and with superceding State and Federal Laws including those that protect rivers and wetlands. I support them when it can be demonstrated that the benefits to the community and the Town outweigh the possible harms to health, safety, residential impact, historic preservation, and consequences to the environment (including wildlife). And when such projects are well-planned , constructed according to the plans, and monitored and held accountable by the appropriate Boards and Agencies. Currently, however, I share the concerns of many other residents, (not just the immediate neighbors), regarding the industrial solar project proposed by the company, Nexamp, at Camp Buxton on Pond Street. It seems there are many significant questions and not enough clear answers to warrant an approval to clear cut 14 acres of magnificent trees , destroy what likely remains of significant Native American artifacts, further pollute the Palmer River, and detrimentally impact the well-being of local families. While I do not know the best answers, I think it is important to at least raise the following questions: 1. How can this industrial solar project be approved when there are numerous unresolved questions related to laws and bylaws such as those raised by SaveRehoboth.org which specifies each of these? There are apparent violations of MA guidelines against deforestation and bylaw violations about the project not being harmful or visible to the surrounding community. And there are questions about Zoning bylaws related to industry in a rural, residential neighborhood. 2. Wouldn’t construction of this industrial solar project destroy historic Native American artifacts and preclude any further archeological exploration of the Camp Buxton property? I understand that Erin Flynn who specializes in ancient Native American archeology has recovered significant findings through her work at Camp Buxton. Some of her work was presented in November 2020 and is available on video via the Rehoboth Antiquarian web site. I have spoken with many other residents who are also concerned about preserving Rehoboth’s history and saving the ancient artifacts that could be sacred to the Native American culture. Have the State and local Historical Commissions and/or the Rehoboth Preservation Committee had an opportunity to speak to these concerns? Are there State and/or Federal Departments or laws that preclude this destruction or organizations pertaining to Native Americans that should be informed ? 3. There is reportedly an important early legal requirement related to Camp Buxton and surrounding property specifying that the property be preserved indefinitely ( in perpetuity). Is it noted in the deed? A Title search found a 1765 conveyance of this land from Ephraim Hunt to the Congregational Church in Book 46 Page 475. It is handwritten and hard to read. Does the Church or anyone have either a clearer version or understanding of this conveyance or awareness of any other specification beyond the conveyance that addresses preservation requirements for this property? Wouldn’t it be essential for the Town to be sure this land is legally available for development before approving this project? Couldn’t that be a liability to the Town and possibly also impact residents in terms of cost? 4. At the virtual Planning Board meeting on 03/17/21, it was acknowledged that the solar project would significantly alter the topography of the property. Between that and the clear cutting , water flow downhill from the project onto neighbors properties would increase possibly flooding basements and introducing toxins (from construction products and herbicides) into wells, ponds and the Palmer river. Isn’t this a significant health and safety concern as well as an environmental and flooding concern? Doesn’t the Conservation Commission need to weigh in on that? And possibly the Board of Health? It also Continued on next page...
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6 The Reporter April 2021 came up that the Water Commission had been contacted and a representative was due to appear again at a Planning Board Meeting, but related questions that had been posed (that were needed before the Water Commission could do so) had not been answered by Nexamp or the Board. But, if I understood correctly, at the 03/17/21 meeting the Planning Board decided to preclude any further discussion about the above concluding that the next Board meeting will be the last related to the industrial solar project and only focus on input from respective attorneys. Don’t these questions need to be answered first? 5. Related to the latter decision on the part of the Planning Board, I know the Board is not in an easy position, but it seems important for the Board to consider the unique and devastating impact Covid 19 has had on residents as it relates to community involvement. Covid 19 and the many difficult restrictions have, directly and indirectly, overwhelmed most of us this past year with some degree of devastating consequences including death, illness,
job loss, financial hardship, severe anxiety and depression , grief, school crises and beyond. Fears and isolation alone have paralyzed some people. How much time and ability have residents had to be aware of and invest in current Town affairs? As a nurse and a psychotherapist , I can tell you some people have barely been making it. Additionally, the combination of the unfamiliar format of virtual meetings , lack of access for some, process problems, and Nexamp cancelling some meetings at the last minute have all understandably extended the time that might usually be needed for such a project to be fully “vetted”. Shouldn’t an exception for some additional time be allowed for residents who were unable to participate given such extreme, extenuating circumstances? Shouldn’t this community have the opportunity to present expert input already proposed and do so with the answers they have already requested? Shouldn’t all the above questions and more be thoughtfully addressed ? Finally, as I write this, I am ultimately wondering why this fourth Industrial solar project is even being proposed? Given the surprisingly small “income” to the Town of Rehoboth, the disastrous results of the Summer Street Project that went bankrupt, and the harm to wetlands and failure to follow through on plans regarding the Bay State Road project , have we not learned to approach these projects with extreme caution so Rehoboth will not be “burned” again? I do not understand the benefit to the Town, especially when a Conservation trust offered to buy and preserve this beautiful property that has been a place of serenity for so many during these harsh , unsafe and unpredictable times of Covid 19. It seems one of the rare positive things we have learned in this devastating past year has been to truly understand the importance of space , especially the almost-sacredness of natural space and the profound beauty characteristic of places like Camp Buxton and the surrounding land. Wouldn’t the benefits of preserving this property for all to safely breathe in the gifts of nature outweigh the many problems increasingly coming to light that could well be significantly detrimental to the Town and its residents? Which ever way you might vote on this project if you could, I value your taking the time to read this. I do not know the answers but hope some might seriously consider the questions, add in their own …..and ultimately give what they can to the answers. Marsha Hood - Rehoboth, MA
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SOS Backs Chris Hoskins for School Committee
We are proud to endorse Chris Hoskins, our founder and former Chairperson, for the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Committee for the Rehoboth Annual Town Election on April 6th. Throughout and since his time at SOSDR, Chris has always worked in the best interests of the students of Dighton-Rehoboth. Since his founding of our organization, Chris continued on page 8...
April 2021 The Reporter
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8 The Reporter April 2021
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has made it his mission to bring students to the table wherever decisions are made. As a member of the DRRHS School Council, he worked with parents, students, teachers, and administration to challenge the status quo and bring fresh, new ideas to the table. We need new voices to lead our district out of the crises our district is in, and Chris Hoskins is the voice that will strengthen our district and move our schools forward. Vote Chris Hoskins for School Committee on April 6th! Mackenzie Morgenweck Chairperson, Save Our Schools - Dighton-Rehoboth
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Thank you, Rehoboth, for your support and the opportunity to serve our Town for six years as a member of your Board of Selectmen. It has been an honor and a privilege to represent each and every resident as Selectman, and although I am not seeking reelection, I look forward to the opportunity to continue in service to our Community. Rehoboth is a wonderful Community; rich in history with a legacy of careful planning for the future. It is said that the soul of a Community is a patchwork of the individuals who inhabit it, and we are blessed to be surrounded by so many hardworking, creative, and caring neighbors. The Annual Town Election is upon us. On April 6th, we will elect individuals from our Community who will be responsible for adhering to Federal, State, and Local Law and representing each and every resident with the integrity, professionalism, commitment and compassion that is the Rehoboth legacy. Our Community is fortunate to have an experienced and dedicated public servant seeking re-election as our Town Clerk, and two individuals who are well known in the Community and who will bring their talents and perspective to the Board of Selectmen. GREAT SERVICE I am respectfully asking you join me in voting to re-elect Laura Schwall as Town Clerk and elect Michael Deignan and George Solas as Selectmen. Thank you again for the honor of serving you as a Selectman. Gerry Schwall
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Proposed Revisions to Rehoboth’s Groundwater Protection Bylaw: A Citizen’s View
As most Rehoboth homeowners realize, we all get our water from the ground. Previous concerns with protecting our town’s groundwater were focused on the largely misinformed notion depicted in current zoning maps on the town’s websites. These show that our principal groundwater resource was concentrated along the stream course of the lower Palmer River. This was where, in the 1970s, the United States Geological Survey, under mandate from the State, had predicted (but not exhaustively confirmed) the greatest thickness of sand and gravels. These are deposits from the last glaciation, 14,000+ years ago, and -throughout the U.S. - are usually associated with today’s most productive groundwater Continued on page 10...
April 2021 The Reporter
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aquifers, hence likely spots for high production water wells. The Planning Board has recently faced a well-known quandary we are well aware of in science (and planning policy) which I will refer to as, “A case when facts don’t match the facts”. This situation, of course, refers to two different sets of “facts” that don’t lead to the same conclusion. In the case of our groundwater supply, Fact #1 is that the areas of water-saturated deposits of sand and gravel overburden, some tens of feet thick, along our rivers are indeed a significant source of groundwater. Fact #2, in counterpoint, is that 99% of our personal groundwater wells in the town draw water, not from this shallow sand and gravel overburden material, but from our bedrock aquifer at depths of hundreds of feet. This is because our Board of Health has long maintained that water from these deeper, bedrock wells is typically much purer than water from shallow wells that are much more likely to be polluted. But with increasing buildout and population in the town, the Planning Board has come to realize the increasing threat to even our bedrock groundwater supplies. Hence, we should all be grateful that, through a significant departure from the town’s now outdated and inappropriate bylaw, the Planning Board has spent many hours developing a revised groundwater protection plan for all of the wells in our town. If approved by our residents at the upcoming town meeting, the entire town will come under the same level of groundwater protection. Jack (John F) Hermance Rehoboth
Shocking
Some towns are considering banning the sale of liquor “nips” - those small plastic or glass bottles containing about 50 mls of liquor. A reason cited by the proponents is that these small bottles wind up as litter along roadsides. As a member of SeekonKs Recycling Committee and a regular cyclist - I decided to do a count. On SundaV 3l2Ll2l I did my usual 12 mile circuit in south Seekonk and adjacent Rehoboth. My bike path is along residential and farm areas. Some of the streets include Cole, Fieldwood, Miller, Bradley, Lincoln, Lake-Summer, Wheeler, Water, Reed, North Wheaton, Allen-Almeida, and Willard. I ride with the flow of traffic so my study involved only the right side of the roadway. Well, in L2 miles I counted a shockingLsA nip bottles. This number averages to more than 11 containers per mile. Of course, they were not evenly distributed. Nips tended to be tossed out along empty lots, wooded areas and farm lots. Should we ban the sale of nips? Well, there are pros and cons, but they do appear to be a significant part of the litter problem. Paul R. Coutu - South Seekonk
April 2021 The Reporter
Vote Katie Ferreira-Aubin
Hi! My name is Katie Ferreira-Aubin, and most of you know I am running for Dighton-Rehoboth School Committee. I have been very vocal in what I feel students need and have gotten some backlash for it. I understand not everyone is going to agree with my viewpoints. I have and always will want to hear people’s thought and opinions. I may disagree but residents still need a voice. I do believe students should be in school full time and if I could scream that from the moon I would. This being said I am always for a choice for families. During this pandemic if families decide that it is best for their children to be home for whatever reason (that reason is theirs alone and no judgement should be made or asked) then this should be an option. It has been brought to my attention that I do not debate on Facebook. That is true. I will answer questions when needed and asked directly as best I can. I will not slander, talk down, be aggressive, or keep debating with someone who I understand will not agree with my statements. Questions are to be answered and processed, by each person, not debated to make the other person come to an agreement. We can agree to disagree. That is a fact. That is what I have been advocating for all along a voice and a choice. I hold myself to a high standard personally and professionally. I will not slander, harass, or be anything but professional on social media. Sometimes it is not about being the loudest voice but the voice of reason when others are unreasonable. I want to teach my daughter and step-daughter that even when people have different views we are still kind and accepting. We are not trying to change anyone. This is another reason why I am running for School Committee to let students know that if they want to make a change there are channels and ways to go about that productively. I promise as a School Committee member I will uphold my high standards and do my best to hold the district just as accountable. To get information our directly and efficiently. The public deserves
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Please Vote for our Mom
Kelly HATHAWAY for Rehoboth TOWN CLERK! Our Mom can do and be anything with perfection. She is kind, thoughtful, strong, smart, and giving amongst other great things. Please support her and vote on April 6th. Thank you! Sincerely, Madison & Joshua Hathaway Paid for by Friends of Kelly Hathaway
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to know what is happening in schools with academics, social emotional learning, and where are tax paying dollars are being spent. I plan to go through the budget with a fine-tooth comb. I think this is one thing we can all agree on is we want to know where the money is going. I have a strong belief the teachers union (not teachers) should not be part of how our district runs. They have proven they have misconstrued what is best for everyone by not giving everyone a voice. I also talk about the union on my website please check it out on the question and answer page at katiefordrsc.com. There are many reasons why I believe I have earned your vote. The number one reason is I am honest, professional, and will always listen ( I am a therapist). I am not a politician and do not pretend to be one. I am running for this public office because I believe things need to change and residence need to be the number one voice in our school district. Thank you for reading please go to my website katiefordrsc.com or email me kfaubin@ yahoo.com with any questions or comments. Katie Ferreira-Aubin
Vote for Kelly Hathaway
Dear Residents of the Town of Rehoboth, I am writing this letter of endorsement for Kelly Hathaway for our next Town Clerk. I have known Kelly as a TRUE friend for many years, as a single parent working hard to keep her family safe and happy and as a co-worker. Kelly is the right person for the job. You may say, well what does she have for experience. Not everyone goes into the workplace with experience, but GOOD experience comes with learning the job, perseverance and willing to listen to her co-workers and residents of the Town. Experience comes with doing the job and doing it well. Kelly has what it takes to do the job, she is willing to take whatever steps is needed to be our next Town Clerk. Kelly, for those who know her, has had many bumps in the road but she is strong and overcame them. She is a survivor. While Kelly worked at the town hall she showed compassion to her fellow co-workers. She made sure that she spoke to everyone each morning with a smile and a Good Morning. My vote and I hope your vote will be for Kelly Hathaway for Town Clerk. Let’s keep the confidence we NEED to make our Town proud. Kathleen Amaral
Vote for Kelly Hathaway
I am writing to endorse Kelly Hathaway for town clerk. I have known Kelly personally for many years. Kelly is a friendly, motivated and energetic individual that cares about the people of Rehoboth, including those employees at the town office that she once worked with. I know Kelly will work hard to accomplish all of the duties and goals as the town’s clerk and to create an enjoyable work environment for those that serve the town beside her. Please consider voting for Kelly and give her the opportunity to serve Rehoboth the Kelly Hathaway. Thank you. Tom Ranley
Vote for Kelly Hathaway
Paid for by Michael Deignan
To the voters of Rehoboth, I am requesting your consideration to vote for Kelly Hathaway for the position of Town Clerk. During her previous position of Assistant Town Administrator I personally observed her hard work and dedication to her position, as well as, her eagerness to learn. Also, her kindness and compassion to all who sought her assistance. Bob Ashton, Former Health Agent
April 2021 The Reporter
Endorsements for Kelly Hathaway Rehoboth MA Town Clerk
Good afternoon, I am writing to you with a letter of recommendation for Kelly Hathaway who is currently running for Rehoboth Town Clerk. Kelly is one of the most genuine, honest & caring people I have ever met. She assisted me with running a Girl Scout Troop for many years and worked tirelessly to help give each of the girls many wonderful memories. Kelly is dedicated to her town, making it a priority to patronize local business before anywhere else. I am confident in her passion and ability to succeed at this position. Anyone who meets her, knows as I do, that we are lucky to have her in our lives. Thank you for your time, Jami Araujo
Recommendation for Rehoboth Town Clerk
I would like to recommend Kelly Hathaway, for Rehoboth Town Clerk. I believe she is the right woman for the job. Kelly is such a strong, talented woman that Rehoboth would greatly benefit from having her in this role. When I think of Kelly, the words that come to mind are generous, kind and hardworking. She is honest and fair, and would never stand for giving “favors” to those she is friends with if she was our next town clerk. Kelly knows the Rehoboth Town Hall from her time as the assistant town clerk and she knows what needs to improve and how to get the job done. Kelly never gets up and fights for causes that she believes in. Kelly would bring experience, fresh ideas and some workplace fun to the town hall. A happy place to work is a much more productive place to work. Anyone who knows Kelly, would say she is a people person because she loves interacting with people and she is kind to everyone she meets. I believe that the Rehoboth Town Hall would run better and be more productive with Kelly as our next town clerk. Vote for Kelly Hathaway!!! Sincerely, Kate Griffin Taunton School Teacher Rehoboth, MA
Vote for Kelly Hathaway
Good morning I am writing a letter about Kelly Hathaway. I’ve known Kelly for over 20 years and she has always been a hard worker. She it’s a very fast learner and strives to improve every step of the way. She’s always thinking about what she can do better and how she can make things better in a situation. It’s nice to be around someone that has such a positive outlook on life! Elizabeth Ruehrwein
Support for Kelly Hathaway as Town Clerk
Dear fellow residents of Rehoboth, I am writing on behalf of Kelly Hathaway for Town Clerk of our town. I have known Kelly for many years and know her a very competent person with the skills to take on the job of town clerk for us. Kelly along with having the skill sets to serve us well in this capacity would bring compassion, understanding and empathy to our community. Kelly is a single mom, a very passionate and dedicated individual who I have observed with a tremendous work ethic. I therefore encourage you to consider Kelly Hathaway for position of town clerk this April. With warm regards, Leonard Mills, Jr.
Endorsement for Kelly Hathaway for Town Clerk
To Our Fellow Rehoboth Voters, We have been residents of the Town of Rehoboth for 43 years and have been acquainted with Kelly Hathaway for well over 20 years. We are writing to offer our wholehearted support for Kelly as candidate for the Office of Town Clerk. Kelly holds strong family values as well as an impeccable work ethic. As Town Clerk she will serve our town honorably and professionally. Kelly is a person of boundless energy and she will hit the ground running on day one. Her experience as Assistant Town Administrator means that she’s well acquainted with the inner workings of our local government. We especially appreciate Kelly’s thoughtful leadership. She seeks out new ideas and different perspectives and develops reasonable positions. She’s approachable and engaged as well as genuinely committed to giving her all. In short, Kelly has the ability, desire and skills to be our Town Clerk. Please consider giving her your important vote. Respectfully, Debbie and Ron Wnuk
Support for Kelly Hathaway
I am writing you to show my support for Kelly Hathaway for town clerk . I have known Kelly for a few years and within that time she has shown nothing but compassion and dedication to the town of Rehoboth . She is a strong amazing woman who will do great things as the Town Clerk ! She is a caring loving mom and that shows in all that she does , I am proud to call her a friend . Thank you, Nicole Jarvis
Recommendation for Kelly Hathaway
Kelly Hathaway has been a long-time salesperson of Aubin Realty in Seekonk, MA. I have seen many examples of her professionalism and talents and have been impressed by her character, diligence, and work ethics. She has consistently demonstrated her ability to rise to any challenge that she has faced. I strongly recommend Kelly Hathaway for Rehoboth’s Town Clerk. Please vote April 6th at Beckwith Middle School. Diane F. Aubin, Broker
Letter in Support
This letter is written in support of the candidacy of Mrs. Kelly Hathaway for Rehoboth’s Town Clerk. Although I have never written a letter in support of a candidate running for a position, I did not want to miss my chance to let the voters of Rehoboth know who they have the opportunity to elect as their next Town Clerk with her candidacy. I have proudly known Kelly, and her dear family, for the past twenty years. Integrity. Diligence. Kindness. Conscientiousness. Determination. Leader. Those are words that describe this candidate. Kelly was an admired assistant Town Administrator in Rehoboth and she would undoubtedly serve as Town Clerk with the same humility, know-how and collaborative work ethic that is needed in an office that keeps the wheels of Rehoboth moving. The decision of who our Town Clerk will be, as determined by this election, will shape what direction Rehoboth will head into for the future. A vote for Kelly Hathaway is a vote for Rehoboth! D. Rounds, long time friend of the Hathaway family
Paid for by Friends of Kelly Hathaway
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The Reporter April 2021
Support for Candidate Kelly Hathaway for Rehoboth Town Clerk
Good Day, I wholeheartedly submit this letter of support for candidate Kelly Hathaway as Rehoboth Town Clerk. I was introduced to Kelly in September 2015 when she joined the amazing group of town employees within the Town Hall. Kelly was hired as the Assistant Town Administrator and I was, at that time, the Town Planner/Conservation Agent. Our offices abutted each other and our desks were literally ten feet apart. You learn a lot about someone when you hear every word they speak, every day, every week for two and a half years. What I learned and experienced during that time is why I am writing this endorsement. There were many times when a town resident would come into the office angry as a hornet but give Kelly five minutes with them and
they left the office with all the answers they needed and with a huge smile. A smile because Kelly’s sense of humor is infectious and something that we don’t see enough of in government. Instead of going on and on reciting paragraphs of accolades to just fill space and cause some to “eye roll”, just let me list some words/phrases that come to mind when I think of Kelly in her former position as Assistant Town Administrator, as the future Town Clerk and every day, out in the world person. Here we go...Incredibly Kind, Highly Intelligent, Diligent, Problem Solver, Enthusiastic, Motivator, Organized, Graciously Humble, Selfless, Loving Mother, Strong Survivor, Sympathetic, No Nonsense, Energetic, Hard Worker, Generous and last but certainly not least, a public servant that truly believes the people have the power, not one elected or appointed person or board, but all residents of Rehoboth. Please support Kelly with your vote on April 6th. Respectfully submitted, Leeann Bradley Former Town Planner/Conservation Agent, 2008 - 2018
What Is A Town Clerk?
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A Town Clerk is an individual who is dedicated, motivated, and knowledgeable with the laws and procedures of local, state and federal government. Someone who is willing to work on behalf of their community to insure that all are served with respect and dignity. A Town Clerk is the person who is called and known as “information central” in almost every community in MA. A Town Clerk is well versed and capable of giving direction to those seeking help for just about anything government related. The position of Town Clerk requires multitasking each day to insure that deadlines are met, a creative nature to develop and plan for the unexpected each day. A Town Clerk is an individual who will pursue and continually be educated in all aspects of the position; whether it is in anything related to elections, vital records and/or records management. Laura has developed many new policies and strategies since taking office to insure that the needs of her community and its residents are better served each day. It is for this reason I support Laura L. Schwall for Town Clerk of Rehoboth. I have known Laura for several years, seen her at MA Town Clerks Conferences where clerks participate in educational courses in a variety of topics and instruction is done by state government officials, and am confident that she is the right individual for this position. Since becoming your Town Clerk, Laura has pursued and become a Certified Massachusetts Municipal Clerk and has also been certified as an International Municipal Clerk. An accomplishment that clerks pride themselves in. I would encourage voters to support her candidacy, realizing that good government begins with good public service. Nancy J. Talbot, Town Clerk of Ware and 2019-2021 President of the Massachusetts Town Clerks Association (MTCA)
April 2021 The Reporter
Re-Elect Laura L. Schwall, Town of Rehoboth Town Clerk
As a grass-roots collection of citizens of all different political backgrounds, Rehoboth Citizens for Responsible Government endorses Laura L. Schwall for re-election as Town Clerk for the 2021 Annual Town Election. Laura has served as Town Clerk for the last 8 years. She was appointed to the position by the Board of Selectmen in 2013, displayed her abilities to perform the necessary duties and has sought and obtained 2 re-elections since. She has proven her abilities to manage, at an exceptional level, the knowledge, skills and professionalism in this role. The Town Clerk position is vital to our community and experience is a highly valued asset.The Town Clerk office must work cohesively with all departments, boards and committees, ensuring the affairs of our town are in proper order. One of the major duties performed by the Town Clerk’s office is the planning and oversight of all elections -- local, state, and national -- as well as training volunteer election workers. The Town Clerk is the town’s Chief Election official. Laura’s ability to navigate the intense 2020 election season (town election, national primary and general elections), in the midst of a pandemic, was unprecedented. She handled it with much ease for anyone watching closely. This is nothing to gloss over lightly. The Town Clerk is also responsible for the notification of Town Meeting Warrants, public notification and Voter Check-In for all Town Meetings. In 2019, our town saw two record-setting turnouts for the Annual Town Meeting. Laura and the volunteer staff proved excellence in managing these two very large crowds. Aside from two very important responsibilities of managing all elections and town meetings, the Town Clerk is also responsible for maintaining all public records and issues licenses such as: continued on next page...
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EXPERIENCED • •
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PROFESSIONAL COMMITTED • • •
A note from Laura,
Endorsements: * 20+ Certified Massachusetts City & Town Clerks (Current & Retired) * Rehoboth Citizens for Responsible Government * NE Municipal Clerk’s Institute * Rehoboth Republican Town Committee
continuing to make Town Clerk services more accessible and convenient - in person and online implementing additional solutions to better serve residents continuing to preserve Rehoboth’s Historical Records
It’s an honor to serve as Rehoboth’s Town Clerk since 2013. Upon re-election, I’ll continue to perform professionally, ethically, and compassionately in service to my Community. If you share my belief that a person’s past performance is a good indicator of future success then I respectfully ask for your vote for re-election on April 6th. Sincerely, This ad personally paid for by Laura L. Schwall
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The Reporter April 2021
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Birth Certificates, Death Certificates, Marriage Licenses, Dog Licenses, Zoning Decision, Town Meeting Records, Election Records, Elected/Appointed Positions, Business Certificates; Maintains General, Zoning, Sub-Division Bylaws and State Statutes Those who have worked closely with Laura have nothing but high regards to give about her professionalism and passion in serving her role in our community. She encourages all citizens to actively engage as voters and in the community overall. Her professionalism, rapport with the volunteer election workers, 8 years worth of knowledge and hands-on experience as Town Clerk, reach far beyond the desire for just a “new” face in this crucial position in the Town of Rehoboth. To learn more about projects Laura has completed in serving our town, please visit her website at https://www.schwallfortownclerk. com/working-for-rehoboth. Please vote for Laura L. Schwall for Town of Rehoboth Town Clerk Position! Voting for Laura is a vote for consistent professionalism, experience and excellence for our town. Rehoboth Citizens for Responsible Government P.O. Box 24, Rehoboth, MA 02769 RehobothCRG@gmail.com
It is with Great Pleasure that I Endorse Laura Schwall for Re-Election
It is with great pleasure that I endorse Laura Schwall for reelection as Rehoboth Town Clerk. I’ve gotten to know Laura well during her 8 years as Town Clerk, she is a consummate professional and very knowledgeable about her job. Laura is well respected by her colleagues across the state. I have served as Town Clerk in Northborough for over 16 years. During that time, I’ve been President of our statewide association and currently serve as Chairman of our Legislative Committee. Laura has taken part in many professional development sessions offered by our association, especially those involving important election law changes. In recent months, Laura has worked diligently with Senator Feeney, Representative Howitt and the Clerks of Massachusetts to help get the extension of the March 31, 2021 Acts of 2020 deadline extended to June 30th (H73). This legislation allows voters in Massachusetts to vote by mail as we continue to deal with the Covid-19 pandemic. Our election laws have changed significantly in recent years and there are more changes to come. Having an experienced professional in place is vitally important to maintaining the integrity of the election process. The Town of Rehoboth has been so fortunate to have Laura Schwall as their Town Clerk for 8 years. Please vote to re-elect Laura for another three-year term. Sincerely, Andrew T. Dowd, Northborough Town Clerk, Chairman MTCA Legislative Committee & Past President (2015-2017) MTCA
Laura Schwall for Town Clerk
It is with much enthusiasm that I endorse Laura Schwall to be re-elected to the office of the Rehoboth Town Clerk. Laura has admirably filled this position since my retirement in 2013 which made my decision to retire much easier knowing that I was leaving the office in such capable hands. Laura spent six uncompensated months working with me before I left office to learn all of the aspects and responsibilities required of the Town
April 2021 The Reporter Clerk position resulting in a seamless transition. She fulfills the aspiration of every town clerk by protecting our past and being a positive link to our future. She has worked diligently to make town government readily available to the residents of Rehoboth. Her ambition has enhanced the town website making our town government easily accessible and beneficial for town residents. This includes convenient access to public records and information enabling residents to make payments on line for such services as vital records, public records requests, business license renewals, dog licensing, along with a myriad of other responsibilities that fall under her jurisdiction, thus, enabling town residents to make their payments or obtain needed records in a convenient and dependable manner. She has made tremendous improvements and gone above and beyond to ensure the preservation of our town records that date back to the early 1600’s. Laura takes her responsibility as the keeper of our town records in a very conscientious and dedicated manner and is constantly researching new ways to improve the service her office provides. Laura took over the new voting equipment that was purchased at the end of my incumbency and went on to improve our election process by implementing the Poll Pad which is used to check-in voters on election day. This is an up to date method which ensures accuracy and speed for the convenience of voters and election personnel to make the election process run in a flawless and efficient way. Through Laura’s resourcefulness and adaptability she also successfully navigated our state and town elections through the unquestionably difficult task presented by our current pandemic. She is a Town Clerk in every sense of the title. Kathy Conti Rehoboth Town Clerk - Retired
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The Reporter April 2021
Rehoboth Town News From the Clerk
Laura Schwall
Hello All ~ The temperature is warming; flowers blooming; birds singing ~ Happy Spring! March has certainly been crazy busy for the Town Clerk’s Office. During the month of March, we processed thousands of census forms and dog licenses, while also preparing for the April 6th Annual Town Election, working on the Town Clerk’s portion of the 2020 Annual Report and completing the Town Clerk’s
fiscal year 2022 budgets. In addition to the normal busy March, this year I spent considerable time lobbying with Representative Howitt, Senator Feeney, State Elections and the Massachusetts Town Clerk’s Association to make sure the COVID-19 Pandemic election accommodations, which were afforded the voters in the 2020 elections, were extended to include our Annual Town Election. The prior legislation was approved only through March 31, 2021 but on Tuesday, March 16th Governor Baker signed the bill into law extending the deadline to June 30, 2021. This extension allows the voters of Rehoboth to choose one of three voting methods in the upcoming election: Vote by - Absentee Ballot (due to COVID-19 concerns), In-Person Early Voting (March 27-April 1) and In-Person on Election Day LURI LEE (April 6). I am proud to be a part of the legislative process that enabled the voters in Rehoboth, and 214 other municipalities in the Commonwealth, the ability to choose their preferred voting method during the pandemic. Please remember to vote, if you have not done so already via Absentee Ballot or In-Person Early Voting, please vote on Tuesday, April 6th. All three precincts will be voting at one location for this election: Dorothy L. Beckwith Middle School Gymnasium – 330R Winthrop Street (Route 44) behind Palmer River Elementary. Polls open at 7:00 AM and close at 8:00 PM
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Annual Town Election
Usually, in the April issue of my Reporter article, I am providing an update on the Annual Town election results. This year, the Reporter really scrambled to get the April issue out prior to the April 6th Election (in households by Saturday, April 3rd), so voters can receive last minute details on the upcoming election. As a result, the Reporter will post the April 6, 2021 Annual Town Election results on their website (https://reportertoday.com/rehoboth/) once I send them the unofficial election results on election night. Results will first be posted on the Town Website under “News and Announcements” https://www.rehobothma.gov/ . VOTER REMINDER: ALL THREE PRECINCTS WILL BE VOTING AT A NEW POLLING LOCATION ~ THE DOROTHY L. BECKWITH MIDDLE SCHOOL GYMNASIUM ON TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2021 – Polls open from 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM. Please refer to the mailer I sent out on Friday, March 19th for complete details. If you need a copy, please call our office 508-252-6502 or download from the website @ https://www.rehobothma.gov/home/ news/important-covid-19-early-voting-polling-location-changes-april-6-2021-annualtown-election continued on page 20...
April 2021 The Reporter
Endorsements for Laura Schwall
Laura Schwall for Town Clerk!
Laura has met every challenge that has come her way, from the everyday functions of the Town Clerk’s Office to protecting our town records, to challenges created by Covid and via her monthly article in the Rehoboth Reporter and when necessary, a town wide mailing, she has managed to keep residents up to date on the functions, progress and changes in all aspects of the Office of Town Clerk. Town Records went from potential destruction due to damaged storage areas that now are dry and safe. She has been instrumental in providing many on line services, especially helpful during these trying times. With the introduction of the Poll Pad the check-in process at town meetings and elections is much more efficient and she has done everything possible to keep the public and election workers safe during this pandemic. Laura has also achieved multiple Town Clerk Certifications, CMMC, Certified Massachusetts Municipal Clerk and CMC, Internationally Certified Municipal Clerk. We, the residents of Rehoboth are fortunate to have Laura, with her knowledge and experience working for us! So please support and vote for Laura Schwall for Town Clerk. Brenda Crandall, Rehoboth Town Clerk Retired
Laura Schwall Endorsement
Please accept this an endorsement for Laura Schwall, Rehoboth Town Clerk. As a fellow Town Clerk I have had the pleasure of working with Laura in several capacities. Laura is extremely thorough, professional and ethical with how she approaches every task presented to her. She is always willing to go the extra mile in order to provide the best service and benefit to her community. During her tenure, Laura has worked tirelessly to become involved and connected with Rehoboth’s Senators and Representatives and has earned their respect and ear. The position of Town Clerk has changed dramatically over the past 10 years and is far more complicated than most realize. The residual effects of Covid-19 are sure to bring changes to election laws and those challenges will require both connection and experience. Laura’s experience and proven track record speaks for itself and I believe the Town of Rehoboth is very fortunate to have Laura Schwall as their town clerk! - Danielle M Sicard, Easton Town Clerk & Election Legislative Task Force Representative
Endorsement for Laura Schwall for Town Clerk
“I have known Laura for a number of years. She has always exhibited the utmost professionalism and enthusiasm as a Town Clerk. Laura is extremely knowledgeable, personable and helpful. In the past, Laura has graciously assisted me with depositions of Vital Records. She has done so much during her tenure as Town Clerk for the Citizens. Laura is an asset to the Town of Rehoboth. She works tirelessly to improve town services for each and every resident and has been instrumental in streamlining many of these services. I wholeheartedly endorse Laura Schwall for Town Clerk of Rehoboth!” – Rose Marie Blackwell, City Clerk, Taunton, MA
NEMCI Class of 2017 Support Laura L. Schwall
We are collectively writing in support of your Town Clerk, Laura L. Schwall. We had the pleasure of getting to know Laura during the three-year program of the New England Municipal Clerk Institute. NEMCI is the local academy for the International Institute of Municipal Clerks training for City & Town Clerks held in Plymouth, NH. Laura is extremely knowledgeable in all Town Clerk responsibilities. Laura has always brought good energy to all of our tasks. She has provided great insights into our job. She is willing to share her practices and is always willing to work with the group to adapt to new practices. Laura is a Town Clerk because of her desire to help others. We have seen this on a personal level as well as on a professional level. Many hours are taken planning and processing the functions which a Clerk’s Office must accomplish for the well-being of the community. Laura continues to be a great source of knowledge and encouragement when any of us encounter questions. We have no doubt that her
eagerness to serve Rehoboth and her enthusiasm for the Town Clerk’s position will continue to be an asset to your community. Thank you for taking the time to read this, considering Laura L. Schwall and remembering to vote! NEMCI Class of 2017: Donna Shortall, Former Town Clerk, Rockland, MA; Linda Emerson, Town Clerk, Lynnfield, MA; Joanne M. Senos, City Clerk, Gloucester, MA; Cynthia L. Thompson, Town Clerk, Wrentham, MA; Catherine Heuberger, Town Clerk, Mattapoisett; Janet Murphy, Assistant Town Clerk, Barnstable, MA; Laura Brennan, Town Clerk, Cheshire, VT; Laura McCarthy, Former Assistant Town Clerk, Dennis, MA; Susan Kelley, Town Clerk, Duxbury, MA; Susan Sprague, Deputy Town Clerk, Foster, RI; Diane Lockwood, Town Clerk, Millville, MA; Lisa Bragg, Town Clerk, Strafford, VT; Beth Klein, Town Clerk, Sudbury, MA; Mary R. Whitman, Assistant Town Clerk, Whitman, MA; Angela Holmes, City Clerk, Westbrook, ME; Dianne K. Bucco, Town Clerk, Manchester-By-The-Sea, MA
Please Re-elect Laura Schwall
As one of your town constables, it has been my honor to work with Laura Schwall at virtually all our elections since she assumed the role of Town Clerk in the summer of 2013. During every election, Laura has worked diligently to ensure every voter’s needs were accomodated and everyone who wanted to vote was able to. Most individuals do not realize how important the role of Town Clerk is to the proper operation of Town government. For example, when Laura was appointed interim Town Clerk in March 2013, she volunteered -- meaning, no compensation -- on a full-time basis from March until Kathy’s Conti’s retirement, so she could ensure the proper knowledge transfer necessary prior to assuming the role full time. This is not a position you simply walk into with no experience or knowledge and expect to be successful. Unlike Fred Flintstone who skedaddled from the quarry immediately at 4pm, Laura often works well into the late evenings to help residents. I have personally seen Laura at Town Hall evenings 9pm and later, staying after hours so she could meet a town resident who could not make it to Town Hall for some critical need before closing. How often do you see this type of public service? Experienced. Professional. Committed. That’s Laura Schwall. Please join me on April 6th (or, earlier if you’re voting by absentee ballot or during the ‘early voting’ period at Town Hall) and cast a ballot for Laura Schwall. Michael P. Deignan - Chairman Rehoboth Finance Committee and Elected Rehoboth Constable
Laura Schwall – A Seasoned Veteran for Town Clerk
Laura Schwall has been serving the Town of Rehoboth in the capacity as Town Clerk since 2013. During this time she has weathered pandemics, fiscal crises, wildly changing election rules, and personnel changes to name just a few of the challenges that her office has faced. During this time, she has not only complied with the law and provided the services that the Town has come to expect, but she has updated and improved the office by making critical changes: Saving critical records that were slowly disintegrating Upgraded our records storage areas and equipment so records are no longer at risk of water and other damage. Greatly enhanced our website to make more services available online and improve the overall availability of information online. All of this while continuing to run the day-to-day activities in which she goes above and beyond what the office calls for! I have known Laura for quite some time since when she was a teacher at Palmer River working with my wife, Nancy. Since that time, I have never known Laura to do anything halfway; she immerses herself in whatever project or job she has before her and gives it everything. I cannot think of anyone who would serve in the role of Town Clerk more conscientiously than Laura would. For these reasons and more, I strongly recommend you vote for Laura for Town Clerk Jim Muri - Vice Chairman - Rehoboth Board of Selectmen
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The Reporter April 2021 Important Absentee Ballot Reminders
As per Massachusetts General Law, Mail-In Absentee Ballot Applications may only be accepted by our office until 5:00 PM on Wednesday, March 31 for the upcoming Election. Absentee Ballots mailed from our office include a white return ballot envelope that is addressed to the Town Clerk’s Office. You may return your ballot by mail to our office – 148 Peck Street, Rehoboth or hand deliver your ballot by placing it in the official ballot drop box outside of the Town Offices – see image below. Deadline
to return your voted ballot is close of polls (8:00 PM) on Election Day. Ballots CANNOT be returned to the polling location on Election Day - they must be returned to the Town Clerk’s Office/Outside Drop Box for processing.
Mail-In Absentee Ballot Application Deadline
Wednesday, March 31, 2021 at 5:00 PM – by law we cannot accept a “mail-in” absentee ballot application received after the 5:00 PM deadline on March 31st.
In-Person Absentee Ballot Application(Appointment Only) Deadline
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Monday, April 5, 2021 at Noon – please call 508-252-6502 to schedule your appointment.
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All voted ballots must be received at Town Hall by 8:00 PM on April 6, 2021
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Deadlines for Voted Absentee Ballots to be Returned and Counted
Before you return your ballot please make sure you:
• Complete your ballot • Put your ballot inside the small brown security envelope and seal the envelope closed. • VERY IMPORTANT - Please sign line #1 of the brown ballot security envelope. We cannot process your ballot without your signature. • Place the brown signed security envelope inside the “white” return envelope and either drop off at the Town Hall Ballot Drop Box or place in the mail to us at 148 Peck Street.
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Informed voters will reduce the amount of time necessary in the voting booths and reduce lines and crowding while voting. The Offices up for election this year can be found on the Sample Ballot located at the 12 posting locations around the town or on the Town Clerk’s Website @ https://www.rehobothma.gov/town-clerk/pages/ elections-voting-links Know the COVID-19 Safety and Social Distancing Protocols required by the Governor @ https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid19-prevention-and-treatment to keep everyone healthy and safe: • Please do NOT go to the POLLS if you are sick or have been exposed to anyone with the virus leading up to Election Day. • Wear a Face Covering or One Will Be Provided. • Hands Will Be Sanitized Prior To Entering Voting Area or Gloves Will Be Provided. • Bring a Pen – Blue or Black Ink Sharpie or Paper Mate Flair (if you don’t want to borrow one). • Bring a Clip Board or Book to mark your ballot on (if you don’t want to use a Voting Booth). • Bring an ID – in some cases voters will be required to show an ID. • Don’t Touch Your Face while at the polling location. • Maintain Social Distancing – keep 6 feet away from anyone not from your household. • Keep your ballot dry and free from hand sanitizers – to avoid tabulator issues. Final Election Update ~ There are three contested races this year: Selectman, School Committee and Town Clerk. Please make sure you vote in this very important April 6, 2021 Annual Town Election. As you know, I personally believe, voting is a tremendous gift and your vote is so important in deciding the forward motion of our town government. As President Roosevelt so eloquently stated: “Nobody will ever deprive the American people of the right to vote except the American people themselves and the only way they could do this is by not voting.” ~ Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Elected And Appointed Town Officials
A reminder to our elected and appointed town officials; you should 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
April 2021 The Reporter have reason to resign from your position; your resignation should be directed to the Town Clerk as per MGL c41, s109. Thank you!
2021 Dog Licenses Are Now Past Due
2021 Dog licenses were due April 1, 2021. You may purchase your dog’s license through e-mail to TownClerk@rehobothma. gov, drop off your application and payment in the gray drop box at town hall (148 Peck Street), online @ https://www.invoicecloud. com/rehobothgovsvcs, 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 coming in June ~ thank you. To date we registered 1,021 dogs and still have over 1,200 to register. 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 1,021 residents 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. continued on next page...
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The Reporter April 2021
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Rehoboth voters are advised that the date for the Annual Town Meeting, and a Special Town Meeting preceding the Annual, has been scheduled by the Board of Selectmen for Tuesday, May 11th, at 7:00 p.m. The meeting will be held at the Ramada Inn Ballroom (Formerly the Johnson and Wales Inn) 213 Taunton Avenue (Route 44) Seekonk, MA 02771 - The Special Town Meeting will begin at 7:00 p.m. with the Annual Town Meeting following immediately after at 7:30 p.m.
Upcoming Voter Registration Session
The final Voter Registration date to be eligible to participate in the Special and Annual Town Meeting has been scheduled for Friday, April 30, 2021 from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Rehoboth Town Clerk’s Office. Prospective voters are reminded that they may also register to vote online by going to www.RegisterToVoteMA. com or by picking up a voter registration form at the Rehoboth Post Office, by calling the Town Clerk’s Office to request a Mail-In voter registration form, or download a form online @ http://www.sec.state.ma.us/ele/elepdf/Voter-reg-mail-in.pdf
Annual Town Census Forms Are Now Past Due
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Our Annual Town Census Forms for year 2021 were mailed to all households in Rehoboth during the first week of January. If you did not receive your census form, please contact the Town Clerk’s Office. Residents were asked to review the pre-printed forms, make corrections, and return them by the January 31, 2021 deadline. As of March 27th, we have a total of 1,548 households that still need to return their forms: Precinct 1 = 483 households in Precinct 2 = 486 households, and 579 households in Precinct 3. If you haven’t returned your 2021 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 3,516 households that have already returned their census forms. Our Registrars have completed their calls to the residents reminding them to return their census forms. Thank you, Registrars Jennifer Moitoso, Helene Vitale and Kathy Conti, along with Lynn Shaker and Odete Lacourse for your exceptional work with the 2021 Census process.
April 2021 The Reporter In closing, I would like to thank the voters of Rehoboth for 8 wonderful years serving as your Town Clerk. I truly love my job and look forward to serving the Town of Rehoboth for many years to come. Please remember to vote in the April 6th Annual Town Election. During the month of April, Lynn, Odete and I hope you have a wonderful Patriot’s Day, have a most enjoyable Earth Day, and Arbor Day. 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 Monday, May 3rd, annual Excise Taxes were due April 1, 2021, yearly dog licenses were due April 1, 2021, and Annual Census forms were due January 31, 2021. I look forward to chatting with you again in May and hopefully seeing you at our Annual Town Meeting on Tuesday, May 11th. We hope you all enjoy the beautiful spring weather. Thank you, Laura , Lynn & Odete
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Rehoboth Town Events Committee Seeking New Members
The Rehoboth Town Events Committee is recruiting new members. The Events Committee has the mission to create and sponsor town events. Our events are specifically chosen to feature the town’s history, people and places, and to revitalize our town spirit. In recent history, we have produced the Taste of Rehoboth, the Kid’s Fall Fun Festival, the Fall Decorating Contest and the Light Up Rehoboth contest. The Events Committee is seeking a couple of key members to help us plan and manage future possible events such as a town-wide Mystery Treasure Hunt, WineTime Seminars or Movie Night, as well as other larger events such as Taste of Rehoboth. (when feasible). Our team is looking for individuals with skills in social media, fundraising and design. However, our primary goal is finding teamplayers who are willing and eager to pitch in! If you feel you are a fit, please contact David LeComte at dlecomte4@gmail.com. Thank you!
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The Reporter April 2021
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News from the Rehoboth Food Pantry Happy Spring!!!
It’s hard to believe it is already Spring - and just as hard to believe that we just passed the 1 year mark of the Covid Pandemic. We are beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel, and are looking forward to warmer days! The generosity of our town - neighbors and businesses alike - continues to astound us! We have been able to keep the Pantry stocked, and maintained our emergency fuel fund in order to keep our neighbors warm and fed through these difficult and unprecedented times - and it is all because of YOU! Food and monetary donations from residents and businesses in our town are what have allowed us to continue providing confidential food and heating support for those in need. We have had a number of people asking if we could facilitate online donations. We are happy to announce our website, https://rehobothfoodpantryma.org/, now has a PayPal donate link at the bottom of the page, making it extremely convenient! To our regular volunteers who shop, stock the shelves, and distribute food - you are so very special to us, and we are so grateful for all that you do! Our drop off locations Munroe Feed and Supply, Land-Tek, and The Blanding Library continue to provide convenient spots for neighbors to drop off food and other necessities. The donations keep rolling in, and we are most grateful for allowing folks to continue to drop off, as well as those donating! Along with food and monetary donations, we have many residents asking if they can volunteer to help, and though we haven’t reached out to many volunteers due to the pandemic, as vaccinations become more widespread, and the warmer weather arrives, we will definitely be reaching out to those that have asked how they could help! We also have board member openings available for those who want to assist in other ways. Please call us at 508-4931922 or email us at rfoodpantry@gmail.com if you are interested. For those that already indicated an interest, we do maintain volunteer lists, but you are welcome to reach out again if you prefer! If you are reading this, and are in need, whether just a difficult week or continued support - please remember - you just need to reach out and we will help in any way that we can!
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The Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Inc. has expanded its mission...to include Birthday Gifts to support our Rehoboth Children. Please visit our website www.rehobothblizzardofgiving.org for more information. If you are in need of support to celebrate your child’s birthday..... please provide the following information or use the form available on the website- two weeks notice is required for assistance with birthday celebrations so please provide ample notice: • Parent/Guardian’s name, address, email, phone • Child’s name, gender, birthdate, general interests This information can be emailed to Mrs.mbrawley@gmail.com Or mailed to Maureen Brawley, 35 Reynolds Ave., Rehoboth, MA 02769. If you have any questions please call 508-252-4867. The Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Inc. is committed to serving the 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 mailed to: Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Attn: Cathy Edington, 61 Reservoir Ave., Rehoboth, MA 02769 Colleen McBride, Secretary Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Inc.
April 2021 The Reporter
Message from Rehoboth Post Office Hello Postal Customer:
With spring on its way, please consider giving your mailboxes and the surrounding area a little TLC. Carriers will give you a notice to fix your box if it is need of repair, but why wait? Some boxes around town have seen better days and are in need of repair or replacement. With the weather getting warmer, it’s always a good time to fix a broken door or a post that won’t make it another winter. Mailboxes should be between 42” and 48” from the bottom of the mailbox to the ground. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the Rehoboth Post Office at (508) 252-9278. Thank you.’ Thank you Derek
Keep Rehoboth Beautiful Committee Town Wide Spring Clean-up
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The Keep Rehoboth Beautiful Committee is excited to announce the dates of the Town Wide Spring Clean-up, Sunday, April 18thSunday April 25th. We will be using COVID safety precautions/ protocols and we ask that you do too. Please check our website @ Keeprehobothbeautiful.com or our Facebook page. We will be posting more information in regards to registration, and local, contactless pick up sites for bags, gloves and T-shirts. Great activity for families and groups! You can also be awarded Community Service hours. Save the dates and make a difference!
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Rehoboth Cemetery Clean up Dates
To anyone interested in volunteering to clean up our Cemeteries before Memorial Day, the Rehoboth Cemetery Commission will be out every weekend starting the weekend after Easter, Saturdays 9-noon, (rain dates are Sundays 1-3) Please call Bev Baker if you are not sure of the weather (774-254-4748). Please bring a leaf rake and work gloves. • Saturday 4/10 #14, Palmer River Churchyard on Lake Street • Saturday 4/17 #36, Burial Place Hill on Peckham Street near Providence St • Saturday 4/24 #9, Lovell Goff Yard, across from 60 Elm Street • Saturday 5/1 #16, Joseph Stillman Pierce Yard, near 66 Kelton Street • Saturday 5/8 #38, Otis Horton Cemetery, Idlewoods Drive off Pleasant St (no rain date due to Mother’s Day) • Saturday 5/15 #6 Isaiah Hunt Yard, Corner of Broad Street and Salisbury Street • Saturday 5/22 #49, Bosworth Cemetery, near 99 Hornbine Road
Rehoboth Animal Shelter News
Amazingly, there are no new animals to report at the Rehoboth Animal Shelter at the time of writing. You can check Petfinder to see if any have arrived by the time you read this. Most people know that cats are safer indoors from cars and wild animals; disease is also a risk. Cases of the Feline AIDS Virus and Feline Leukemia Virus have been found in Rehoboth. Although these diseases do not affect humans, they are deadly to cats. Cats at the shelter are tested before adoption. Wonderful as it would be to think that there are no homeless pets in Rehoboth, this is probably not the case. To report a lost or found pet, call the shelter at 508-252-5421, ext. 126, and leave a message.
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The Rehoboth Bluebird Society Visit our display at Munroe Feed! For Membership info or questions, contact Hank Coleman at 508.243.0244 or email hjcoleman@comcast.net or email Thurston Tarter pttarter@gmail.com
26
The Reporter April 2021
New Police Building Nearing Completion
By Joe Siegel The Rehoboth Police Department is getting a new facility to call home. Selectman Michael Costello said May 3 will be the “movein” date. Last May, the Board of Selectmen authorized a payment to the town of Dartmouth for the purchase of a modular building for $225,000. The funding for the expenditure was drawn from the Sale of Real Estate reserve account, which was established for the construction and improvement costs for the public safety building. Dartmouth had housed their police department in the modular unit for the past three years. The purchase also included all the furniture and light fixtures in the building. The new facility will be 8000 square feet and will accommodate the needs of the police and fire departments, as well as ambulance operations. The current 2600 square feet facility at 334 Anawan Street has been criticized by officials for a shortage of space and poor health conditions.
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Rehoboth Police to Take Back Unwanted Drugs
By Joe Siegel On Saturday, April 24th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the Rehoboth Police Department and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration will give the public its 20th opportunity in ten years to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs. Residents are advised to bring their medications for disposal to the Rehoboth Police Department located at 334 Anawan Street. (The department cannot accept liquids, needles or sharps, only pills or patches.) The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked. For more information about the event and to locate a take back location near you, go to www.DEATakeBack.com.
Costello and Schwall Honored With Special Appointments
By Joe Siegel Rehoboth Selectmen Michael Costello and Gerry Schwall won’t be running for re-election on April 6, but they will remain a part of town government even after their successors take their places. Costello will serve as Public Safety Project Manager after supervising the work on the new police building for the last year. In addition, Costello will continue on the Council on Aging Building Committee, which was formed after a fire destroyed the old facility on Bay State Road. Schwall will serve as Coordinator for Special Projects. Most recently, Schwall oversaw the creation of the town’s Covid-19 vaccination clinic. Chairman Skip Vadnais said Costello reminded him of a World War Two Destroyer Captain: “When faced with overwhelming odds, his response was ‘damn the torpedos, full speed ahead, firing all his guns into the face of adversity.’ “You always get the job done. You take on a tough mission and you see it through.” “You have always been a workhorse,” Costello told Schwall. “You guys have set the bar so high,” Selectman Dave Perry said. “It’s been an honor to serve,” Schwall said of his time on the board. “It’s been very rewarding.”
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By Joe Siegel The Board of Selectmen reached out to Boy Scouts of America in an attempt to resolve a dispute over a proposed solar farm at Camp Buxton. The property at 90 Pond Street is owned by the Boy Scouts. Some residents have complained about the solar farm, stating the removal of trees would have a detrimental impact on their neighborhood. Chairman Skip Vadnais responded to criticism from Thomas Kearns, a candidate for the board in the April 6 town election. “It’s got nothing to do with them,” Kearns told the Reporter last month. “That’s zoning. There’s a lot of things they tie up with time and financial resources which don’t need to be tied up.” “This board was approached by a group of residents from Pond St., asking us to intercede,” Vadnais said Monday. “This board answered correctly that we have no way of directing what takes place on the solar farm. That is solely the purview of the
April 2021 The Reporter officials on the Planning Board. However, that doesn’t prevent us from taking action as a community.” In a letter sent to the organization, Vadnais had suggested a hybrid deal or a life tendency deal which “would keep the land in its natural state with conservation land intact.” The representative from the Boy Scouts wrote Vadnais, stating “a conservation restriction is not the appropriate course of action at this time for this property.” “We were trying to think outside the box and come up with a solution that worked for everybody involved,” selectman Jim Muri added.
Rehoboth Finance Chairman Resigns
By Joe Siegel Michael Deignan, who serves as the town’s finance committee chairman, will be resigning on Monday. Deignan is running for one of two open seats on the Board of Selectmen. The town election is Tuesday. In a letter sent to Town Clerk Laura Schwall on March 28, Deignan said Colleen Simpson, the committee’s vice-chair, will assume the responsibilities of the Chair at 12:01 am on April 6. “It has been a pleasure and honor to serve the residents of Rehoboth for the past 12 years as a member of the finance committee,” Deignan wrote.
Dighton-Rehoboth Unveils $42M Budget
By Joe Siegel The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School operating budget for the 2022 fiscal year is $42.1 million. That represents a 1.52 percent increase over the 2021 budget. Rehoboth will be paying $13, 976, 958 and Dighton will be paying $6, 852, 198 for their minimum contributions. Each town’s contribution is increased from 2021. Dighton is paying $67, 340 more and Rehoboth is paying $289, 236. School Business Administrator Paul Kitchen said federal funding could be used to off-set the assessments, which may impact the final totals. “The caution I have to say is its one-time money,” Kitchen told the committee. “When you use a lot of that one-time money, the following year you have a huge swing. If the increase for 2023 is an additional $290,000 then the town of Rehoboth may have to come up with almost $600,000.” Kitchen said the decision to use the funds is up to the board of selectmen. Rehoboth’s total assessment is $19, 799, 989 and Dighton’s total assessment is $11, 090, 846. The budget will be voted on at the May town meeting.
Vaccines for Veterans
All Veterans, their spouses and caregivers can get COVID-19 vaccinations from VA under the SAVE LIVES Act signed into law March 24. Providence, RI VA Hospital Phone # Call Between 8 AM & 4 PM To Schedule Your Appointment- Call 401-273-7100 X 12496 Covered individuals can receive a vaccine from VA due to the ongoing COVID-19 public health emergency. Under the bill, covered individuals are: • Veterans who are not eligible to enroll in the VA health care system; • specified Veterans who are eligible for hospital care, medical services, and nursing home care abroad; • family caregivers approved as providers of personal care services for Veterans under the VA’s Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers; • caregivers of Veterans participating in the VA’s Program of General Caregiver Support Services; and • caregivers of Veterans participating in
27
the VA’s Medical Foster Home Program, Bowel and Bladder Program, Home Based Primary Care Program, or Veteran Directed Care Program. • Civilian Health and Medical Programs of the Department of Veterans Affairs recipients. • Veteran spouses. VA must prioritize the vaccination of (1) Veterans enrolled in the VA health care system, (2) Veterans who fail to enroll but receive hospital care and medical services for specified disabilities in their first 12 months of separation from service, and (3) caregivers accompanying such prioritized Veterans. Additionally, vaccines furnished abroad are authorized to be furnished in a geographic location other than a state regardless of whether vaccines are needed for the treatment of Veterans with a service-connected disability. This includes those participating in a VA rehabilitation program. More information: To learn how to get COVID-19 vaccine from VA, visit https://blogs.va.gov/VAntage/84404/veterans-designatedcaregivers-can-get-covid-19-vaccine-va/. Find answers to general VA COVID-19 vaccine questions at https://www.va.gov/health-care/covid-19-vaccine/.
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The Reporter April 2021
The Seekonk Scene The Clerk’s Corner Looking back a year ago this April we were in the midst of a pandemic that we knew very little about. The world we knew was changing minute by minute. This office was not open to the public, we had to postpone the Annual Town Election and the way we worked changed dramatically. As of March 22, 2021, Town Hall is now open to the public. I’d like to think we are getting back to normal but realistiFlorice Craig cally it will still take time and patience to feel completely back. We would like to thank the citizens of Seekonk for their patience during these trying times.
Dog License Update
The deadline to get your dog licensed was March 31, 2021. There is a grace period to get them in before May 31, 2021, after that date there will be a $20 late fee applied when renewing. It is taking longer this year to process your dog tags due to a new software program. We are working as fast as we can to get them out to you. If you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to call us. 508-336-2920
Town Meeting News
After months of postponing the Fall Meeting was finally held on Saturday March 27, 2021. The results will be published in next month’s Reporter article. The Spring Town Meeting is set to be held on May 10, 2021, 7pm at the Seekonk High School.
Annual Town Election
The Annual Town Election was held on Monday April 5, 2021. The results of this election will be published in next month’s Reporter article. Have a great month enjoy the spring weather.
Earth Day Cleanup April 17th-24th
Earth Day is April 22 and the Seekonk Recycling Committee is offering free gloves and bags to all residents who are planning clean up events between Saturday, April 17 and Saturday, April 24. These items can be picked up at the DPW on April 7 and April 14 between 12-4 p.m. Once you have finished your clean up, please call the DPW to arrange pick up for the bags of trash. Any questions, please contact Bill Kirchmann at wkirchmann@seekonk-ma.gov or call 508-336-7407.
Paper Shredding Event for Seekonk Residents
Saturday, May 22, 2021, 9 AM-12 Noon
The Seekonk Recycling Committee is sponsoring a paper shredding event at the Town Hall parking lot on May 22, 2021. Appointments and proof of residency are required. You can sign up online at the following link- https://signup.com/go/qnpmfMZ. Pick the timeslot by clicking on the green Signup button and completing the information requested. There is a maximum of 2 bags or 2 boxes. And because we are still required to honor social distancing, we limit one person per appointment and that person will be responsible for bringing the boxes to the shredding truck. This is a rain or shine event.
Seekonk Animal Shelter News
Meet Oreo and Cookie. These friendly sisters are available for adoption at the Seekonk Animal Shelter. They are 2 years old and love to chase each other around their cage playing. When it’s meal time, they will let you know with the cutest squeaks! Give us a call at 508-336-6663 if you are interested in adopting them, or any of other available pets.
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April 2021 The Reporter
SeekonKindness Marks a Milestone
The early days of Covid-19 were dark and frightening times. Yet across Seekonk, neighbors were reaching out to neighbors, strangers helped strangers, people uplifted one another. Simple acts of kindness broke through the overwhelming feelings of loss and uncertainty. The Friends of the Seekonk Public Library (Friends) and Seekonk Library Trust (Trust) were inspired by this spirit. Just as the library strengthens community, these acts of kindness reflected the values of shared, positive experiences. And like the library which provides a community gathering place, they decided to aggregate the “many flowers blooming” and promote the wonderful ways Seekonk residents were helping each other. As a result, they created the SeekonKindness Facebook page. This page pulls together the diverse stories of kindness happening across the town. It creates a single place to go to see and share the news about Seekonk kindness, promoting other community online places, while assembling acts of kindness on one page. It is hard to believe, but that was now over a year ago. SeekonKindness marks its one-year anniversary this month. In that time, videos captured the amazing excitement for kids when the police and fire departments had birthday celebration drivebys. Posts highlighted group acts of kindness, for example, when Seekonk High School students and staff members started off the new year with a donation to the town’s homebound seniors, providing them with puzzles, games, crossword puzzles to help them keep busy during the lockdown. Individual acts of kindness have been celebrated, like the woman who filled her car with supplies for a needy family. And sometimes, just a beautiful photo of a Seekonk setting brought tranquility in these troubling times. The Friends and the Trust thank all who shared and continue to share their stories on SeekonKindness, engage with their comments and “likes”, and help spread the word about acts of kindness in Seekonk. Kindness strengthens community, and community enriches our lives.
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More Seekonk Students Returning to School
By Joe Siegel As rates of Covid-19 infections continue to drop in Massachusetts, Seekonk Public Schools has announced a return to full inperson learning five days a week for all elementary schools. “I would like to extend my appreciation to all of our teachers, staff, students, and families for their extraordinary efforts,” said Superintendent Rich Drolet. “We thank everyone for their continued patience and flexibility, and for supporting and assisting our Seekonk students. We know this past year has not been easy, and as spring approaches we are excited to continue to bring more of our students back to school for full in-person learning.” On Monday, April 5, Grades 3 through 5 will be returning. Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 2 will now have five days a week of in-person learning. On February 23rd, students in grades K-2 returned to school four days a week and on March 2nd, students in grades 6 and 9 returned to school four days a week. Drolet said efforts were being made to accomplish this earlier than April 5. If that is possible, an announcement will be made next week. On April 6, in addition to Grade 6, all Hurley Middle School students in Grade 7 will return to full in-person learning four days a week. In addition to Grade 9, all Seekonk High School students in Grade 12 will return to full in-person learning four days a week. Mondays will remain remote learning days. “We expect to be able to add Grades 8, 10, and 11 and go to full in-person learning across the entire district five days a week in late April,” Drolet noted. “We will make this final announcement as soon as we are able to.” Drolet said he advised Seekonk parents to have their children ride the school bus when possible in order to avoid traffic congestion during pick-up and drop-off times.
Seekonk Town Officials Discuss School Repairs
By Joe Siegel The Board of Selectmen expressed concern over the cost of needed school building repairs in a discussion with Superintendent Rich Drolet. The price tag for a new heating system for Hurley Middle School will cost over $6 million. The school department will be applying for funding through the MSBA (Massachusetts School Building Authority). Drolet said even if the school department gets partial funding, it would not likely happen for at least five years and the town would be asked to pay a portion of the total amount for the heating/HVAC system. Selectman David Viera felt five years was too long to wait for reimbursement. “Anything that’s of a dire need or dire emergency, I’d just assume see us fix it now and cut our losses,” Viera said. “I don’t want to put the (students) in jeopardy.” Selectmen chairman Justin Sullivan urged caution in how the town approaches the repairs of the aging school buildings. “There needs to be a careful study to it and make sure we’re taking the right course,” Sullivan said. “It’s a roll of the dice whether or not we’re going to get (the state funding) in five years and the system’s not going to make it that long.” “Long term planning needs continue to be a priority,” said school committee chair Kim Sluter. “We satisfied short term and long term elementary building needs with the modulars and the Aitken Expansion project. As the Town evaluates large capital improvement items (HMS Heating system) we will need to consider the long term plan for HMS and SHS. It is likely that the first step will be to form some type of School Building Feasibility committee this fall and I encourage representation from other Town Boards and community members.” Drolet said the 2022 school budget is $30 million, a three percent increase over the 2021 budget of $29.2 million. A vote on the budget will be held at Monday’s school committee meeting.
April 2021 The Reporter
Seekonk Voters Delay Charter Changes
By Joe Siegel Voters at the 3/27 town meeting which had been delayed multiple times due to fears of Covid-19, opted to postpone changes to the Home Rule Charter. Those in favor of postponement stated there hadn’t been sufficient time to review the modifications. “The Charter Review Committee, which was appointed by the Board of Selectmen, have not had the opportunity to publicly present their recommendations,” said Doreen Taylor, a former selectwoman. “To indefinitely postpone it and ignore it and ignore the work that went on for years to review this charter, it’s just absolutely ludicrous to blow off the amount of time put into this charter study,” said John Alves, a member of the Charter Review Committee. Voters approved $500,000 to fund the construction of an ADA compliant sidewalk, new curbing, and wooden guardrail along Arcade Avenue near the Senior Center. The funding also provides for the installation of a pedestrian light at the intersection of Ledge Road and Arcade Avenue. Town Administrator Shawn Cadime noted families and children use the sidewalks and trails along Arcade, adding safety was a priority. Selectman David Viera said a light was “long overdue.” An article calling for an appropriation of $144, 310 to fund the purchase and equipping of a Trackless Machine to be used by the Department of Public Works was indefinitely postponed. Also rejected was a voter petition article calling for the lease of the former town landfill off Fall River Avenue (Route 114A) for a solar power facility. Other items which were approved: • An article authorizing the town treasurer to borrow up to $350,000 for the cost of renovating or reconstructing the age 18 – 22 Transition Program at Seekonk High School • Appropriation of $50,000 for repairs and upgrades to the Public Safety building on Taunton Avenue. • The appropriation of $157,000 to fund the purchase and installation of guardrails, paving, landscaping and other site work at the Town Hall playground. • The appropriation of $83,000 to fund the purchase and installation of an emergency reporting system which will replace the discontinued Vision 21 system. • The appropriation of $48,000 to fund the purchase and installation of irrigation wells and irrigation control panels for the Water Lane athletic fields. • The transfer of $500,000 from available funds to the Municipal Capital Stabilization Fund.
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Selectmen are crafting a nuisance bylaw in an effort to persuade motel owners to clean up their businesses. It will be voted on at the Spring Town Meeting. Selectman David Viera hopes the new bylaw sends a clear message. “I think the more teeth we got, the more successful we’re going to be,” Viera added.
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Seekonk Police Chief Details Motel Crimes
By Joe Siegel Seekonk Police Chief Dean Isabella provided the Board of Selectmen with an overview of illegal activities occurring at the motels on Route 6. Isabella said hotels and motels were the town’s third highest location for incident based reports. 1250 offenses were reported over a 5 year period for the town’s 10 motels. Over 57 percent of the town’s opioid overdoses occurred inside the motels. “Obviously people are going to the hotels to use drugs and unfortunately some of them are experiencing overdoses,” Isabella said at the board’s February 24 meeting. Crimes reported included sex crimes, assaults, larceny, vandalism, drug/alcohol use, disorderly conduct, and motor vehicle violations. The top five hotel calls for service for 2020 were Motel 6, Quality Inn, Colonial Inn, Ramada Inn, and Clarion Inn. The number of incident reports and arrests for the hotels have been on a steady increase. In 2020, 15 percent of the incident reports and 19 percent of the arrest reports were generated from the hotels. ‘That’s a significant amount,” Isabella noted.
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The Reporter April 2021
Seekonk Land Trust It’s spring, so says the calendar and even if it’s chilly there are signs spring is coming as the snow melts and reveals potholes in the road, or maybe its just your mailbox stops getting knocked over by the plow! But step outdoors and listen and observe nature, take a walk, as there are always more subtle signs that spring is on the way.
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Birds are singing and backyard birds are one of the best predictors of spring. Already there are chickadees, titmice, red-winged blackbirds and cardinals chirping and feeding. You’ll notice many migrating birds are arriving early compared to decades past (and now some never leave!). As the days gradually become longer and temperatures climb, the sounds becomes louder and by the end of March you will hear migrating birds returning including warblers, sparrows, yellowthroat, and finch. You might notice the knock of woodpeckers, and see ducks returning to lakes and ponds. Listen and watch for bluebirds that do not come north until all chance of winter has passed and they are assured an ample food supply. Observe the buds on your trees. Some of the first trees to bud are the willows and silver maples, followed by the red maples. Perhaps it’s then time to cut some budding forsythia or spring cherry branches to force blooms early indoors. Snowdrops and hellebores are already blooming in gardens and although magnolias will soon be flowering, our wild trees and shrubs are much more subtle. Alder and hazel have long, yellowish male flowering spikes, called catkins, that are preceded by tiny female red-tipped flowers looking like a bundle of matchsticks. If temperatures on a still sunny day are high enough, there As soon as the ponds and wetlands thaw—as early as midMarch—you will hear spring peepers (Pseudacris crucifer). These tiny amphibians sing loudly creating quite a chorus at dusk. Like its name, the spring peeper tends to call a high single “peep!” that when put all together is a resounding “peep, peep, peep, peep!” These tiny frogs live beneath logs or underground, are freeze-tolerant, and tend to like moist, wooded areas, ponds, and wetlands. Interestingly, they have a vocal sac that expands and deflates like a balloon to create a short, distinct peeping sound, but only males have the ability to make this loud high-pitched noise, and they use it to attract mates. Breeding happens when warm rains start between March and June, and P. crucifer typically lay around 900 eggs per clutch. After they hatch, they remain tadpoles for two to three months before they transform into frogs and are ready to leave the water. As they spawn you might look for their small jellylike egg masses. Females choose mates based on the speed and volume of their calls. Older, larger males tend to have faster and louder calls that are preferred by the females. The spring peeper can live an estimated three years in the wild. And, while it may seem there are an overabundance of tadpoles, most (up to 90%) do not survive do to predation. The first painted turtles are usually seen sunning on logs by midApril if it is a warm sunny day, above 65° F. Turtles are cold-blooded, which means their body heat is generated from their surroundings. Reptiles do not create their own heat internally, like mammals do. The reason they are sunning is to increase their body temperature so that they can move around quickly and digest their food. Beginning in late April through May, the woodland wildflowers come into full bloom. Trillium, bloodroot, jack-in-the pulpit, marsh marigold and wild ginger are a few of the special wildflowers that make their appearance before the leaves are on the trees. Watch for these as woodland wildflowers have only a small window of time to see them and then they are gone till the following spring. So quickly, if you aren’t sure where to go, just google short walks in Seekonk (or nearby towns) and get out to enjoy fresh air and sunshine. The bonus is the exercise and the sounds and sights of spring. Watch for local notices or check our website if you would like to join us clean-up our properties for Earth Day. We are planning to rendezvous at Martin Refuge park lot (across From the Grist Mill) on Saturday, 4/24 at 9am and will supply gloves and bags. Come meet other Land Trust members and help keep our trails and community clean. For further information, please see https://www.seekonklandtrust.org or follow us on www.facebook.com/seekonkLCT
April 2021 The Reporter
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People In The News ne Drivew o t S ue Masonry a &
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For Captain David Pickering, the appeal of being in the Boy Scouts (a program now called Scouts BSA) was developing friendship and fellowship with youth and adults who believed in the Scout Law and the Scout Oath. This environment helped Capt. Pickering develop self-confidence, and a desire to become a Scout leader, passing along these important ideals to the next generation. Capt. Pickering was a long-time resident of Rehoboth, a Scout in Troop 13 Rehoboth and eventually a leader with Troop 13. For his decades of volunteering service to Scouting, David Pickering, 2021 Capt. Pickering was recently honored with the Narragansett Silver Beaver Recipient Council, Boy Scouts of America’s highest volunteer award, the Silver Beaver. Since 1936, the Narragansett Council has given out awards to leaders and volunteers who demonstrate commitment to excellent service to youth within the Council. Capt. Pickering was honored in a virtual ceremony in February. Capt. Pickering wasn’t just a Scout leader, but his childhood memories are filled with Scouting adventures. His earliest memory of Scouting is as a Cub Scout with Pack 1 Rehoboth in 1963. He was the annual Pinewood Derby First Place Winner, earning a mention in the Providence Journal.
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After becoming a member of Troop 13 Rehoboth in 1965, Capt. Pickering began noticing the special influence his Scout leaders had on his development as a young adult. Capt. Pickering’s Cubmaster and later Scoutmaster Joe DeRoche, Asst. Scoutmasters Andrew Colp and Lonnie Newman created a special Scouting experience for him. These three volunteers helped guide Capt. Pickering to the pinnacle of Scouting - earning the Eagle Scout rank in 1972.
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The Reporter April 2021 After graduating from University of New Hampshire in 1976 with a degree in Forestry and Recreation, Capt. Pickering’s mission became to honor the work that DeRoche, Colp and Newman did for him. Immediately after graduation, he jumped in as the Scoutmaster for Troop 56 in Plymouth, New Hampshire, ready to inspire youth. In 1980, Capt. Pickering returned home to Rehoboth and became Assistant Scoutmaster for Troop 13 where he volunteered for three years. During these years, he helped numerous young men earn their Eagle Scout rank. One of Capt. Pickering’s fondest memories of working with Troop 13 was leading Scouts on an overnight winter climb up Mt. Washington to 6,288 feet, and camping at Hermit Lake Shelters.
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508-431-6897 Also owner of International Equine Imports Kerri Arruda Owner 76 Martin Street, Rehoboth, MA 02769 www.SpringGardenFarm.com Kerri@SpringGardenFarm.com www.InternationalEquineImports.com InternationalEquineImports.com Since the 1990’s, Capt. Pickering has been using the power of the ocean to change Scouts’ lives for the better. Capt. Pickering developed and implemented Sailing Charter Groups for one and two week sailing adventures to the islands of the Eastern Caribbean from the US Virgin Islands including the Windward and Leeward Islands to Grenada and South America and French Polynesia’s Society Islands of Tahiti, Bora Bora, Raiatea, Huahine and Taha’a. In 2002, Capt. Pickering earned his “captain” title by becoming a Licensed U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Marine Officer. This accomLicensed & Insured plishment helped him better serve Scouts while out on the water. In 2014, Capt. Pickering founded S.A.L.T.Y. (Seamanship and Leadership Training for Youths) – a non-profit organization teaching Scouts, YMCA, Boys & Girls Club, Gold Star Teens and other youth organizations about seamanship and leadership skills on week long sailing trips on Narragansett Bay. The crowning volunteer experience for Capt. Pickering while running S.A.L.T.Y was leading Sea Scout Ship 1909 scouts and adult leaders on a one-week sailing adventure on the open sea onboard the 295’ U.S. Coast Guard Barque Eagle. These unique experiences that Capt. Pickering offered to hundreds of Scouts over his long career of volunteering made him perfectly suited to be honored with the Silver Beaver Award by the Narragansett Council in 2021. Capt. Pickering is proud of the Scouts who have used his lessons taught on the water to pursue further education in marine fields or pursue careers in the U.S Coast Guard. Capt. Pickering believes that beyond the excitement and friendship building of the Scouting program, there are true lessons that can be applied for higher education and professional success. Today, Capt. Pickering is retired, however still very active with Narragansett Council and living with his wife Leann on Greenwich Bay in Rhode Island.
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Samantha Dietel Named to the Fall 2020 Dean’s List at Providence College
Samantha Diete of Seekonkl, a member of the Class of 2023, has been named to the Fall 2020 Dean’s List at Providence College. Samantha is pursuing a double major in Psychology and Elementary/Special Education. She has made Dean’s List all three semesters while attending Providence College.
April 2021 The Reporter
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Seekonk Resident Helps Lead Victory for College Campus Assault Survivors In January, Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker signed into law a bill that addresses sexual violence at colleges and universities by strengthening support services for survivors. It also creates a task force to develop a student survey on campus sexual assault, to be taken biennially at schools statewide. For Liana Ascolese, of Seekonk, the law’s passage was the culmination of years of hard work by her and a dedicated group of fellow Liana Ascolese advocates — work that she began while a graduate student at the UMass Amherst School of Public Policy. Today, Ascolese —who studied political science as a UMass undergraduate before receiving her master’s from SPP in 2017 — is the national legislative director of the Every Voice Coalition, which works on legislation to address the pervasive problem of sexual assaults of college students. She balances her Every Voice role with a full-time position at SBDigital, a Washington, DC-based communications firm that works with progressive organizations and candidates. Citing data from the US Bureau of Justice, Every Voice notes that 23% of female undergraduates and 5% of male undergraduates experience sexual assault on campus. While the issue has received increased attention in recent years, university policies for assisting survivors, preventing assaults, and collecting and reporting data are often outdated and ineffective, according to Every Voice. The bill passed in early January, in the waning days of the legislative session, then was signed into law by Baker. This was actually Every Voice’s second legislative victory; a New Hampshire bill, although filed after the Massachusetts one, became law earlier, in the summer in 2020. Every Voice will continue to be involved in the implementation of those new laws, Ascolese said, and is working on similar bills in seven other legislatures, with plans to expand its efforts into other states. Every Voice is also working with Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) on the federal Campus Accountability and Safety Act. The organization also recently added its first full-time, paid staff member — National Director Nora Gallo, a 2020 UMass Amherst grad — and has begun fundraising to support its work. As Every Voice’s legislative director, Ascolese works to bring the Massachusetts bill model to other states and to mentor students to become leaders in the effort. “The political process and the legislative advocacy process can be really inaccessible,” she said. Every Voice’s goal is to teach students how to do advocacy work and then to share that knowledge with others. “Sometimes giving someone else the opportunity and mentoring them and literally bringing them to the meeting table is all it takes for them to really stand out and be heard.” Ascolese was drawn to the issue of campus assaults in part because of her own history as a survivor of domestic violence. “Growing up in that environment, I’ve always been really cognizant of the ways that people in leadership don’t always look like me or share my experiences, and that definitely had an effect on my life,” she said. “In college I focused my studies on women in politics and their barriers to participation, and certainly the experience of sexual violence is a barrier, at least in the immediate aftermath. “It’s always been my goal not only to elect and appoint more leaders who are more diverse and really share the life experiences of their constituents, but also people who have empathy for these situations and will use the political process to break cycles of violence,” she said. “Our students and survivors are such amazing and powerful people and they’ve inspired me so much,” Ascolese said. “I’m glad that people across the state, maybe even survivors who were not
directly involved with our movement, will see that we’re sending a different signal now from the state level, and that people recognize and believe them and care about them.” Support the cause here: https://www.flipcause.com/secure/ fundraiser/MTA3ODk0/54524
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The Reporter April 2021
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Speaking for the Trees, Once More
Last November I wrote about the proposed plan to turn Camp Buxton on Pond Street into an industrial solar farm, quoting from “The Lorax” by Dr. Seuss: “I speak for the trees.” Now I am speaking for the trees once more, as are a group of neighbors whose homes are across the street from this picturesque parcel of land that sits on a rise between Wilmarth Bridge Road, Pond Street, and the Palmer River. The camp itself is on the rustic side, designed for tent camping and sitting around the campfire, though there are a couple of shelters in a large open field in the middle of the camp. After enjoying living across the street from these woods, some of us for many years now, home-owners would be facing
April 2021 The Reporter
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HOME & GARDEN a large field of solar panels instead. I especially feel sickened at the proposed destruction of all those trees, not to mention having to watch/listen to bulldozers and chainsaws, should this happen. Though what I write here is, as always, solely my own opinion, I encourage everyone, not just those who live in the immediate vicinity of Camp Buxton, to find out more about this controversy. I am writing this a few days before the planning board meeting on March 31, so I am not able to report here on what was decided then. You can find out much more about these solar farm concerns, sign a petition, or donate to this cause on the website www.SaveRehoboth.org or on their Facebook page. Or you can email save. rehoboth.ma@gmail.com. Genuine Client Care • Prompt Response Times The organizers write: “This group supports conservation and High Level Negotiation Skills preservation efforts, and seeks to engage the community into acStrategic Marketing Plan • Consistent Successful Results tion against clearcutting and unwanted developments, whether residential subdivisions, inappropriate solar developments, or This is YOUR life, YOUR home & YOUR dreams. other. We wish to safeguard the town from over-development while Allow me to make it an exceptional experience! encouraging reasonable, responsible growth and development.” Contact me today for a Heather Feid Camp Buxton has long been owned by the Boy Scouts of Realtor®, ABR, MRP no obligation consultation Rhode Island who are seeking a 20-year lease of the property to a Licensed in MA & RI solar power company called Rehoboth Renewables. To install solar Direct: 401.787.5979 panels as proposed, 14 acres of woods would have to be clearHeather.Feid@Raveis.com cut. Commercial grade herbicide would be used on the existing HeatherFeid.Raveis.com Independently Owned & Operated ground cover as well. While neighbors are naturally worried about the negative impact this facility would have on their property values, there are numerous other questions as well. People are especially concerned about the continued on next page...
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The Reporter April 2021
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worst case scenario in which all the these trees would be clear-cut to have solar panels installed, only to have the firm responsible for the site go bankrupt. This happened with the solar farm on Summer Street, just a mile or so away, though most of that site was situated in an open field to start with. So then we would be stuck with all that ugly deforestation and yet no good would come from it. I can certainly see the need for solar energy, but as I wrote last fall, chopping down trees to make way for solar power seems like a poor trade-off. Forests are ecosystems of their own, made up of trees and other plants, animals and soil. SaveRehoboth.org refers readers to zoning guidelines for solar arrays from the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources, which include this information: “The DOER strongly discourages locations that result in significant loss of land and natural resources, including farm and forest land, and encourages rooftop siting, as well as locations in industrial and commercial districts, or on vacant, disturbed land. Significant tree cutting is problematic because of the important water management, cooling and climate benefits that trees provide.”
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To conclude with a note about a happier subject, Hank Coleman reports that a number of people have expressed interest in the Rehoboth Bluebird Society, which I mentioned previously. If you want to know more about attracting bluebirds to your own yard, you can email hjcoleman@comcast. net or pttarter@gmail.com, or call Hank at 508-243-0244.
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The Reporter April 2021
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East Providence/Seekonk Rotary Club 29th Annual Charity Golf Tournament Monday, May 3, 2021beginning at 1:15pm
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The golf event will benefit Rotary and Lions charities in the East Providence and Seekonk communities The fee for an individual golfer is $175 and $700 for a foursome with early registration before April 23rd, and increases to $195 per golfer/$780 per foursome after April 23rd. The registration fee includes greens fees, carts, prizes, goodie bag, and boxed lunch. Prizes will be awarded to golfers for longest drive, closest to the pin, and more. Registration begins at 11:15 am. Proceeds from the tournament will benefit a number of community organizations supported by the Rotary Club and Lions Club including area high school scholarships, food banks, youth sports, and many charitable projects. “This golf tournament has become an annual tradition for the people and businesses within our communities,” states Rotary Club President Elisabeth Galligan. “Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, we weren’t able to hold our event last year. We not only look forward to getting out on this beautiful course early in the golf season, but to be able to raise funds to help individuals and families in need throughout East Providence and Seekonk.” “Once again, we look forward to joining forces with the Rotary Club to serve our communities together,” states Gary Sager, president of the Seekonk Lions Club. “Golfers and volunteers can rest assured that our event will abide by all necessary R.I. state COVID regulations so that everyone may enjoy the day safely.” Tournament sponsors for 2021 include Kavanagh’s Bakery Products, D.F. Pray General Contractors, Brown Medicine, BayCoast Bank, Allan Gilmore (50-Year Rotarian), Atlantic Paper and Supply, Signs & Sites, Cross Insurance, Narragansett Beer, and Minuteman Press of Seekonk. For sponsorship, volunteer and general information on the East Providence/Seekonk Rotary Club and Seekonk Lions Club’s 29th Annual Charity Golf Tournament, contact Rotarian David Kent at 401-429-9603 or Lion Dave Pitassi at 401-474-1052. To register, visit: https://epseekonkrotary.org/page/rotary-lions-golf-tournament Established in 1905, Rotary is an organization of business people united worldwide who provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world. Its motto is “Service Above Self.” Established in 1917, Lions is an international network of people who work together to answer the needs that challenge communities around the world. Known for working to end preventable blindness, Lions participate in a vast variety of projects important to their communities. Its motto is “Together We Serve.”
Rehoboth Fire Department Station 3rd Annual Chicken BBQ
Rehoboth Fire Department Station 3rd annual Drive Thru chicken BBQ Sunday April 11th. Each dinner consist of 1/2 chicken, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, cranberry sauce,2 rolls and apple pie. Tickets are 15.00 each. For tickets call or text Bob at 508-294-4616, If calling please call after 6:00pm. Pick up time is 11:30- 1:00. We thank you for your support!
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Church News & Events Rehoboth Congregational Church News
The Rehoboth Congregational Church continues to celebrate and honor the 300th Anniversary. The Sunday services are held on facebook live and the Altar is adorned with 300 items of meaning to the congregation and community. There have been hearts, paint brushes to honor an artist member who passed, toothbrushes to donate to local charities, etc. The new 300th Anniversary lawn signs can be ordered on the Church website. For more information, the calendar of activities as well as the purchase and/or order of memorabilia, you can go to rehobothcongregational.org/300th. RCC History Moment: By 1773 The Palmer River Meeting House had served the congregation for over 50 years. Reverend Turner had passed and was buried in the Burial Ground adjacent to the Meeting House (his original stone is preserved in the Rehoboth Congregation Church). The Palmer River Congregation was now independent from the Newman Congregation. The Meeting House building needed substantial repairs and there was also a need for a larger and more centrally located Meeting House. An increase in the population in the area included settlers north and northeast of the Lake Street location. A new meeting house was built on Bay State Road where the current Village Cemetery is located. It was called the Yellow Meeting House and was occupied by 1775.
Rehoboth Baptist Church Easter Worship Services Announced
Rehoboth Baptist Church will gather for worship on Friday, April 2, at 7 PM to remember Good Friday. On Easter Sunday, April 4th, there will be an outdoor “Sunrise” service at 9:30 AM, followed by a short time of hymns and prayers inside in preparation for the Lord’s Service at 10:30 AM celebrating the Resurrection. The church is meeting regularly on Sundays at 10:30 AM and 6 PM and on Wednesdays for prayer at 7 PM. Wearing of masks and social distancing is maintained in our building. Cleaning is done between services. Rehoboth Baptist Church is located on Route 118, two miles south of the Route 44 intersection. Visit our website for current information about our services or to contact the pastor or an elder. www.RehobothBaptistChurch.org.
Seekonk Congregational Church In Person Sunday Services
Seekonk Congregational Church UCC is open for in-person services Sundays at 9:30 AM in the Sanctuary at 600 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk, MA. Masks and safe distancing are required. Advance registration is requested, the link is located on our Facebook page or Website www.SCC-UCC.com or you can send an email to donna.euell@gmail.com and the link will be sent to you. Please call the church office at 508-336-9355 if you are unable to register online and the staff will be able to assist you with registering. Please come if you feel comfortable, all are welcome. We will continue to provide a virtual service at Seekonk Congregational Church YouTube.
Newman UCC Racial Equity Team
Statement of Solidarity with our Asian American Neighbors: We denounce anti-Asian violence and the harm of hate and bigotry. We see you, and we stand with you. The Racial Equity Team of Newman UCC joins with the national leadership of the United Church of Christ and the National Council of Churches in grief at the death of eight people, six of them of Asian descent, shot by a lone gunman at three Atlanta spas on March 16.
April 2021 The Reporter
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Linking our hearts in prayer for the victims and their families, we issue a call to action against this act of violence. We share this statement of Rev. Dr. John Dorhauer, General Minister and President of the United Church of Christ, with our wholehearted support: When violent attacks occur and the perpetrators are found to have acted based on a bias against the victim being Asian American or of Asian descent, we call for their prosecution as hate crimes. To end racism in our society, we must name it wherever it emerges and do everything in our power to root it out and replace it with just, safe, and equitable communities for all of God’s people. We invite you to join us in condemning anti-Asian sentiment and racist attacks. Support the COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act. Thanks to the mostUCC, recentwe advances in laser dentistry, dentaland procedures At Newman are committed to livingmany the love justice can now be completed without theTeam need for anesthetics, vibration thethose of Jesus. Our Racial Equity stands in alliance withorall disconcerting whine of the dental drill. Dr. Alan Merchanthouse employs just who are historically marginalized based on race and ethnicity. such We technology a relaxing country in Rehoboth.exposing, For the highest strive toinbe a leader withinsetting our community, naming and dismantling racism, white supremacy and all forms prejuquality dental care – furnished by a highly trained and friendly staff ofofdental dice. We envision a community where our institutions professionals – call (508) 252-6121 to schedule yourrelationships, appointment with and social systems provide equitable support and resources for all. Dr. Alan Merchanthouse.
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The Reporter April 2021
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The Rehoboth Bluebird Society is Accepting Memberships Visit our display at Munroe Feed!
For the past 25 yrs Hank Coleman has been placing bluebird boxes on golf courses and open farm areas throughout Rehoboth. With the increase of bluebird sightings in our town, the time seemed appropriate to establish the Rehoboth Bluebird Society. Homeowners can participate in wildlife conservation in their backyard.To date we have 24 members, have sold over 30 nesting boxes and we have appointments daily for visiting homeowners to discuss and install boxes in locations preferable for bluebirds. For Membership info or questions, contact Hank Coleman at 508.243.0244 or email HJColeman@comcast.net or email Thurston Tarter pttarter@gmail.com.
The Rehoboth Lions Club News for April • Board Meeting 14th at 7:00 PM virtual • Regular Club Meeting on the 28th at 7:00 PM and likely live. (More info to get to members via Email & Phone.) • April 18-25 our club plans to participate in “Keep Rehoboth Beautiful.” • On April 10th at 9:00 AM, our Chicken BBQ TEAM will meet at the “Lions Pavilion” near Town Hall to plan this year’s annual popular event. • Rib Dinner, May 1st, 3:30 - 5:00 PM for Drive through pick-up @ Reh. Cong. Church rt. side parking lot. Dinner includes 1/2 Rib Rack, Corn Bread, Home • Made Beans and Cole Slaw. TO BUY Tickets @ $20 ea. Please see the adv. in this Reporter. • May 8th will be a LIONS work party inspecting and repairing our large tents.
Anawan Lions April News
The Rehoboth Anawan Lions Club wishes to thank everyone who participated and bought our delicious Chicken Pot Pie suppers on March 11. It was our pleasure to “Serve” you. Looking forward we are hoping to get back to our twice monthly in-person meetings soon. Please contact Karen Cabral at 774-294-7890 or kabral77@yahoo.com for any information in becoming a part of this wonderful group of Lions Ladies. We enjoy doing as much as we can for our community, having fun and enjoying each other’s company; and are always looking for new members who like to help and have fun. Sincerely, Rehoboth Anawan Lions
Lions Baby Back Rib BarBQ Drive-Up Dinner
To help with fund raising for our many local charities, the Rehoboth Lions are sponsoring our second baby back rib BarBQ take out dinner on May 1st. The dinner will include half rack of dry rub, baby back ribs, container of coleslaw, container of baked beans, and corn bread. $20 Location for distribution, with thanks to the Executive Board of the Rehoboth Congregational Church, will be the Church parking lot from 3:30-5. Only 110 tickets available. Contact Ray Medeiros 508 496 0171. Chuck Procopio 508 509-9253, or Mike Sullivan-Silva ( 508-409-8594) or any Rehoboth Lion for tickets. All profits from this event will go directly toward LOCAL charities.
April 2021 The Reporter
Rehoboth American Legion Post 302, Inc. 84 Bay State Road, P.O. Box 1, Rehoboth, Ma. 02769 e-mail speedyjake@aol.com or call #508-252-9078
American Legion Post 302 Public Events
• April 10th, 2021- Saturday - 7:00-10:00 P.M. – The Dilemma Band from CT. Rock “n” Roll - $5.00 donation https://thedilemmaband.com/ • April 11th, 2021 – Sunday - 7:30-10:30 A.M. Monthly Breakfast, Second Sunday of every month $8.00 donation - All you can Eat! https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/ • April 11th, 2021 – Sunday - 1:00-4:00 P.M. - Shish Kabob Dinner - $20.00 suggested donation per plate https://www.facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/ • April 16th, 2021- Friday - 6:00-9:00 P.M. – Dealing Aces Band with Easy Listening Music - $5.00 donation https://paulpasch.com/dealing-aces-band • April 17th, 2021- Saturday - 7:00-10:00 P.M. – Matt Browne Entertainment Classical & Modern Rock - $5.00 donation http://mattbrowne.net/ • April 23rd, 2021 – Friday - 7:00-8:30 P.M. - Comedy Musical performance by Kalifornia Karl Classical & Modern Rock - $5.00 donation https://www.facebook.com/ KaliforniaKarl/videos/ • April 24th, 2021 - Saturday - 7:00-10:00 P.M. – Beacon Street Band from Boston Classical & Modern Rock - $10.00 donation https://www.beaconstreetband.com • May 1st, 2021 - Saturday - 7:00-10:00 P.M. - Live Music performed by William Foley from Ohio with 50’s - 60’s & 70’s Music - $10.00 Suggested Donation https://www. omgilts.com/ • May 7th, 2021- Friday - 6:00-9:00 P.M. – Dealing Aces Band with Easy Listening Music - $5.00 donation https://paulpasch.com/dealing-aces-band • May 8th, 2021 - Saturday - 7:00-10:00 P.M. - Live Music performed by Gary Lait Cummings & the Soulmates Presents Blues Music - $10.00 Suggested Donation https:// www.facebook.com/events/84-bay-state-rd-rehoboth-ma-02769-2316-united-states/ blues-band-with-gary-cummings-soulmates/189227832326686/ • May 9th, 2021 – Sunday - 7:30-10:30 A.M. Monthly Breakfast, Second Sunday of every month $8.00 donation - All you can Eat! https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/
Seekonk Lions Club Save The Date
Are we getting ready for the spring season? It will be only a few more weeks before it is time to break out the fishing poles. And this year more than ever we are itching to go go go ! The Seekonk Lions Club’s Ninth Annual Doug Allan Fishing Tournament will be on Patriots Day Monday, April 19, 2021 at the Old Grist Mill Pond RT 114A in Seekonk 9:00am until 11:00am. Open for all children through high school in the area. Lions will have a scaled down, safe and fun-fishing derby for our entire local angler friends as Covid requirements are observed. We would like to see all our fellow anglers back this year after a missed season. We will have a great time with great fishing with some great prizes as always! Any questions or if you would like to help/donate or volunteer please email seekonkfishingtournament@yahoo.com. Remember there is no charge. Just come with your fishing poles, that special bait you may have, and catch some fish!
Rehoboth Garden Club News Save The Date!
The Rehoboth Garden Club is hoping and planning to have their annual plant sale at Goff Hall on Saturday, May 8, 2021. Please check the Rehoboth Garden Clubs facebook page for details. We will send out more information soon. All of our sales are fundraisers for our scholarships for local students All plants are purchased from local farms and nurseries as well as from members’ gardens.
43
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The Reporter April 2021
SCHOOL NEWS Dighton Rehoboth Regional - In Person Learning Update
Dear Dighton-Rehoboth Families, My hope is that this communication finds you all well. We appreciate the timely manner in which you responded to the School Feasibility Survey- Spring 2021 Update. There was a 92% response rate. As you may know by now, Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Jeff Riley has asked school districts to begin the process of providing full in-person opportu-
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nities for students beginning with elementary students on April 5th followed by a phased in approach for middle and high school students (see below). In order to understand physical capacity and feasibility for full in-person learning throughout the district, we needed your feedback. The information from this survey will help DRRSD develop next steps in determining the model for instructional delivery for your child as outlined by Commissioner Riley. Each building has a structured Phase IV Committee that will be meeting very soon to discuss the specifics of how the guidance for in person learning will impact each building. We will be using the 3’ distancing as opposed to the 6’ distancing as we navigate students returning to full in person learning. Commissioner Riley has indicated that for this school year only, families may continue to choose remote as a learning model. The following represents the timeline the DRRSD will follow for in person learning based on the DESE guidance: • Elementary school phase (grades K-5): For elementary schools, the hybrid learning model will no longer count towards meeting the required student learning time hours as of Monday, April 5, 2021. As a result, districts and schools are required to shift their learning model for elementary school grade levels to full-time, in-person instruction five days per week effective Monday, April 5, 2021. Although our 5th grade is considered middle school, we have decided to begin the 5th grade transition on Wednesday, April 7th. • Middle school phase (grades 6-8): For middle schools, the hybrid learning model will no longer count towards meeting the required student learning time hours as of Wednesday, April 28, 2021. As a result, districts and schools will be required to shift their learning model for middle school grade levels to full-time, in-person instruction five days per week, effective Wednesday, April 28, 2021. • High school phase (grades 9-12): We will announce the details and timing of the high school phase of the plan in April. Districts will be provided with at least two weeks in advance of the date for high school students to return to full-time, inperson instruction, but should start making such plans now. We are extremely excited to announce that we will be offering a full-time, in-person instruction five days per week for our 12th grade students beginning on Wednesday, April 7th. Finally, we look forward to welcoming our students back to fulltime in person learning and will continue to work with our staff to make this next phase of learning as smooth as possible. Thanks for everything you do for our children and our school community. Stay safe. Sincerely, Dr. Anthony C. Azar, Superintendent of Schools
Pre-School News
Dear Parents/Guardians, Both Dighton Elementary and Palmer River Elementary School will be taking appointments for preschool screening for the 20212022 school year. Residents of Dighton who have a three or four year old and are Interested In the screening may call Dighton Elementary School at 608-669-4246. Residents of Rehoboth who have, a three or four year old and are Interested may call Palmer River Elementary School at 508-252-5110. This screening process Is for NEW applicants who live In either the town of Dighton or Rehoboth and whose child will be at least 3 years of age by August 31, 2021. These screenings serve two purposes. First, students will be eligible to enter a lottery for available openings In the Integrated Preschool Program at their prospective
April 2021
The Reporter
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schools. This program Integrates typically developing children to serve as role models for children In need of special education services through a play centered, Interactive, curriculum-rich preschool experience. Secondly, the screenings serve to Identify students who L U X U RY P R OP E RT I E S may need further evaluations and/or special education services. Please call the elementary schools associated with your resi- Providence Office’s Heather Feidcompletes completes million Providence Office's Heather Feid $1.7$1.7 million 203 SOUTH MAIN STREET, PROVIDENCE | 401.751.8100 dence to arrange an appointment. Screenings will take place the sale of 195 George Street on the East Side sale of 195 George Street on the East Side. — INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED — week of April 26, 2021. The developmental and social skills screening takes approximately 30 minutes. Please bring the following lo the appointment: Proof of residency (recent utility bill or tax statement, mortgage or lease statement, etc..) Child’s original birth certificate and/or certified copy, Drivers license ... Copies of these documents will be made at the time of the appointment A screening can NOT be completed If an appointment lime was not secured and/or needed documents are not available at EAST SIDE | HISTORIC SAMUEL BROWN HOUSE EAST SIDE | SPACIOUS & SUNNY TURN OF THE $1,675,000 | BOB BERLE She cares to do an exceptional job. CallCENTURY or text HOME her! | $675,000 | ALEXIS SOLOFF the lime of the appointment We look forward lo meeting with you and your child as part of this process. If you have any questions Heather Feid, Realtor® She cares to do an exceptional job. Call or text her! please reach out to: Licensed in RI & MA | 401.787.5979 | Heather.Feid@Raveis.com Dighton Elementary School - 508-669-4246 Independently OwnedRealtor & Operated ® Heather Feid, Lynn Dessert, Principal ~ Ashley Fullen, Assistant Principal Licensed in RI & MA | 401.787.5979 | Heather.Feid@Raveis.com Palmer River Elementary School - 508-252-6110 Independently owned and operated Arlene Miguel, Principal ~ Elise DuBois, Assistant Principal
Superintendent Dr. Azar Reads to Students Dr. Anthony Azar, Superintendent of Schools, recently visited the Dorothy L. Beckwith Middle School to read to students. The setting for Dr. Azar’s read was Ms. Hazzard and Ms. Carney-Andrews classes which were celebrating Read Across America with virtual and in person Guest Readers for several weeks in March. Dr. Azar read one of his favorite stories in person to the students by Dr. Seuss entitled , ‘Marco Comes Late’. Joining Dr. Azar were other guest Dr. Azar reading at BMS speakers including both Mrs. Donahue, our Special Education Coordinator and our Asst. Superintendent, Mr. Pirraglia. Other teachers from Beckwith, Dighton and Palmer River Elementary did a virtual read aloud as well. Parents also participated to do a virtual read of their favorite book. Ms. Hazard shared the following comment, “How exciting it is to inspire students’ to read different genres and to pick up a book that they may not normally ever pick up”. “I could feel the excitement in the classroom as I entered the room and was introduced to the students. I fully appreciate the efforts the staff made in order for the students to recognize what it takes to be a very good audience”, Supt. Azar said. “The students were attentive and asked very informative questions which inspired additional questions and insight throughout the read aloud”, Supt. Azar continued. The story, ‘Marco Comes Late’ was a hit with the students.
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The Reporter April 2021
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Bishop Feehan High School Honor Roll
Bishop Feehan High School Vice Principal for Academics, Anne Kennedy, is proud to announce the Honor Roll students for the second quarter. Students from our area are:
Rehoboth
First Honors: Morgan Arthurs, 9; Christia Assi, 9; Sean Callaghan, 9; Riley D'Alessio, 9; Elaina Flood, 9; Sophia Silva, 10; Una Soliday, 10; Alexander Cote, 11; Cormac Masterson, 11 Second Honors: Ethan Coyne, 9; Juliana Dias, 9; Fiona Soliday, 9; Alexandria Caito, 11; Noah Ferreira, 11; Ryan Rebelo, 11; Avery Thomas, 11 Third Honors: Joshua Cote, 9; Malayna Bizier, 11; Emma Chapman, 11; Samuel DeMoura, 11; Faith Abbott, 12; Victoria Richardson, 12
Seekonk
First Honors: Nicholas Calamar, 10; Emma Leeuwenburgh, 10; Jackson Leonard, 12; Second Honors: Sophia Custodio, 9; Anyav Mehta, 9; Matthew Cunha, 10; Jonathan Mignacca, 10; Lydia Nassef, 10 Third Honors: Brooklynn Devaney, 9; Benjamin Almeida, 10; Allel Azzouz, 10; Grace Borden, 12; Carlos Botelho, Jr., 12; Matthew Garrott, 12; Amelia Mignacca, 12
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Term 2 Honor Rolls
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Our Term 2 High Honor Roll and Honor Roll. are both on our website. We are very proud of our 119 students who made high honors and 170 students who made honors. Congratulations to all!
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Although schools are in pandemic mode, students from grade 6 -8 are still being offered the opportunity to compete in the statewide safety poster contest. Lt. Randy Larrivee is offering free materials to any student in either public, private, distance or home school. Prizes are awarded at both the state and county level. Besides a cash prize for 1st, and 2nd place at county and 1st,2nd, and 3rd at state level, students will get published in a calendar that is distributed all over RI and Mass. Usually a gala event for winners is held in June where awards and cash is handed out along with a gourmet dinner and a demonstration. This year however, the prizes will be sent. Last year one student from Beckwith placed 2nd at the county level and another placed 2nd at the state level. Because of the strong Fire and Life safety program that Rehoboth offers and the strong poster contest that students from Palmer River participate in the students in middle school have a very good chance of winning. While the cash and publishing are wonderful, the GRAND prize is raising awareness of how important it is for EVERYONE to practice Fire and Life safety EVERY DAY! For more information for this and other Safety events please contact Firefighter Randy at ltrandylarrivee@gmail.com. •
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The wait is over... Beckwith’s Talent Show is coming soon! Start practicing and getting your acts ready. This year will be a little different as we will be having our Talent Show virtually for the first time in Beckwith’s history. All Beckwith students are eligible but please follow safety protocol if working with others. Put together a 30 second video and send it via email to beckwithfamily@drregional.org by Wednesday, April 14, 2021. Acts will be judged on offer: talent, originality and entertainment. Finalists will be announced by Friday, April 30. If your act is chosen, you will make a final video (2 to 2 1/2 minutes long) that will be due by Friday, May 14. The Big Show will be shown on Friday, May 28 at 4:00pm. In Fineacts Arts past• years haveProgram included singers, dancers, magicians, and
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comedians. Show us your talents and send us your audition video by Wednesday, April 14th!
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The Reporter April 2021
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We are so thankful for your support of the BoxTops for Education program at Beckwith Middle School. BoxTops has almost completely converted to a digital program, and there are very few clippable BoxTops still in circulation. We need your support. We are asking you to please download the BoxTops app on your smartphone or tablet. By scanning your receipt you may earn money for our school. Special promotions that will allow you to earn even bigger rewards for Beckwith are automatically applied frequently. It is actually much easier than it sounds to scan receipts and earn money for our school. If you have any questions at all, please contact Christina Mitnik at cmitnik@drregional.org. If you have not already, please sign up and participate in Box Tops for Education. Thank you for your support
BMS ACE Program is Back
The Beckwith ACE Program is up and running. This year we are hoping to run two sessions virtually. We are providing this program to help our middle school students build new friendships and promote social support during these times. Our program provides students from all grade levels the opportunity to join together in an atmosphere that promotes acceptance, learning, enrichment, and camaraderie. Chess, Science Experiments, Mock Trial, Improv and Instrumental Club are just a few programs running this session. If you missed out on this Students in ACE Science session, please keep an eye out Experiments shared their in our announcements for our next experiences session. We are very fortunate to be able to offer this program this year only at a no cost fee. Future programs will require a fee. If you have any questions, please email bmsace@drregional.org In ACE Science Experiments students used milk and food coloring and a Q-tip dipped in liquid dish soap. They discovered that the food coloring reacted with the dish soap and caused it to disperse. The paper towels combined primary colors to make the colors of the rainbow by traveling from one cup to the other through the paper towels.
Nurse’s Notes
The following state-mandated vaccines need to be received PRIOR to your child ENTERING 7th grade for the upcoming 20212022 school year: Tdap booster (Tetanus vaccine with pertussis/ whooping cough), 2nd Varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, and Meningitis vaccine, an updated physical exam done within the year prior to entering 7th grade also must be provided to the school nurse. Your child may not start 7th grade without proper documentation of the above from your child’s pediatrician. If the proper documents are not received prior to your child starting 7th grade, your child will be subject to exclusion from school per the Massachusetts Department of Public Health Regulations. Thanks Rehoboth Highway Department! Thank you to the Rehoboth Highway Department for installing a new pivotal access road for us from our gym across the back of our building. We greatly appreciate this improvement.
Principal’s Message Reflections
While I was in college we had T-shirts made up that said “reflection, reflection, reflection.” We did not do this because we thought it would be cool to walk around UConn with shirt advertising when we were in the school of education. Instead, we did this because it was the message our professors continuously hit home to us.
April 2021
weeks. Past events have coincided with World Down Syndrome Day, and future events planned for April will coincide with Autism Awareness Day. The theme for all events and activities has been “Chose to Include.” “We’re grateful to have been awarded the SOMA grant and we want to acknowledge STARS teacher Becki Murray for hosting events that promote and celebrate inclusion,” Principal Lush said. The inclusion events began with fifth grade students and students in the school’s STARS Program participating in the “Exploring Around the World” Unified Event. During this event, fifth graders continued on next page...
Above: From left: School Psychologist Andi Bruce, Assistant Principal Kerry Hutchins and Speech-Language Pathologist Katie Michienzi participated in the ‘Rock Your Socks Day’ in recognition of World Down Syndrome Day. (Photo courtesy Seekonk Public Schools)
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In education you need to be a reflective practitioner. I can still hear it now (some 15 years later) “If you do not reflect, you do not change. If you do not change, you remain stagnant and remaining stagnant means you do not know your students’ needs in front of you.” A reflective practitioner is a person who thinks about their day, and examines the good, the bad, and the ugly. The difficult part about this is admitting something did not go well and needs to be adjusted, yet this difficult part is essential in student growth. Over the last few years we have talked about the importance of failure and how your brain grows from failure. Reflection is the chance for your brain to grow. Teachers ask themselves simple questions that then guide the instruction for the next lessons. How did the class go? Did the students learn the topic? How do I know they learned? Was the lesson too long, too short, too complicated? Without the answers to these questions we just move forward without knowing if we have all the passengers onboard. This entire school year has been a lesson on reflective practice. Teachers are constantly not able to see the non-verbal cues that students traditionally send in a classroom. When students are in 1 inch by 1 inch boxes, that feedback is nearly impossible to receive. Teachers have had to get creative in supporting students, knowing if they are on target, and what is the best method to evaluate learning. When a student or multiple students are in front of a teacher in plain sight they are empowered by strength in numbers. This is not the case with students who are remote or in limited numbers in their classroom. The reflection and creativity by teachers to help understand where their students are at in terms of the lesson is impressive. As a school over this long year we have continued this practice not just in the classroom but throughout our entire school. I am sure families have noticed how we have changed some things around (some changes are just for this year and some will be more long term). Our morning announcements have been a daily conversation with students and over the year has changed as we have sought student and teacher feedback. We had received messages about our daily announcements from parents stating the daily email was not effective and not working. We asked the community for their feedback on when should messages be sent out and how often. We used those suggestions to develop a new model of communication and frequency. We continue to reflect and grow. As we welcome more students in the building on April 7th and April 28th, we will continue to reflect on what learning environment is best for our students, how classrooms should be set up, and what interactions we are allowed that follow CDC and DESE guidelines. There will be times on our way home when we get into the reflective practitioner mode and might need to adjust, but that is the beauty of schools where we can adjust, and teach students that it is ok to try new approaches if one does not work. We are all looking forward to our students’ return, the daily sounds of school in the building again, the excitement of seeing peers, and the school staff daily reflecting on what is best for students with filled classrooms once again. Best regards, Ryan Shea
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The Reporter April 2021 At left: From left: Instructional Aide Sandy Matton, STARS teacher Becki Murray and Instructional Aide Patti Moniz participated in the ‘Rock Your Socks Day’ in recognition of World Down Syndrome Day. (Photo courtesy Seekonk Public Schools)
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were paired with students in the STARS program to “explore around the world.” Students completed an event at each of the seven continents, Master Elite Installer, 20 years of perfection which included: jumping over the rivers and mountains in North America, air hockey in South America, frozen tic tac toe in Antarcwww.Tabeleys.com • (401) 431-2816 tica, a kangaroo toss in Australia, a mountain tame in Europe, a Our Reputation is on the Top of Thousands of Homes spice run relay in Asia and an animal relay race in Africa. These events are being funded through a grant, procured by Bill Hopkins Murray, from the Special Olympics of Massachusetts for Martin Reg. RI 18045 • Lic. MA 134986 e y r Elementary becoming a Unified Champion School. The grant allowed for the purchase of t-shirts for all of the participants to wear at the Unified Event. Along with the unified event, students at Martin Elementary also participated in a “Rock Your Socks Day” on March 23 and March 25 in recognition of World Down Syndrome Day. Students and staff also took the “Choose to Include” pledge, which is shared on their JAM board. Additionally, fifth grade students at MarArtist Materials tin Elementary are now making videos of them reading to share with their buddies to Complete Line of Woodcarving Supplies continue their friendship. In the coming days, students will also Hours: M-F 9-5 Sat 9-12 participate in wearing blue to show their support of Autism Awareness Day and will participate in an inclusion spirit week during 1063 Oakhill Ave. Attleboro, MA 02703-7318 • 508-222-6255 the week of April 5. The themes for each day are as follows: • Monday: Wear Green & Start with Hello • Tuesday: Wear Red for Respect • Wednesday: Be Like a Buddy and Dress Like Your Buddy • Thursday: Be Unique, Wear Mismatched Clothes • Friday: Be a Hero for Inclusion “It’s great to see the faculty, staff and students at Martin Elementary School participate in this year’s Special Olympics of Massachusetts’ Unified Events,” Superintendent Drolet said. “Thanks to the grant given to Unified Champion Schools, Martin Elementary had the opportunity to participate in its first year of Unified Events. These events did a great job bringing students together and in promoting inclusion.”
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Seekonk’s Aitken Elementary Second-Grader Connor Gallagher Announced as Feinstein Foundation Jr. Scholar Golden Ticket Winner
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Seekonk — Superintendent Rich Drolet and Aitken Elementary School Principal John Haidemenos are pleased to share that AitSpecializing ken Elementary second-grader Connor Gallagher was announced in Kitchen & Bathrooms as a Feinstein Jr. Scholar Golden Ticket winner. During the week of March 1, Gallagher’s Feinstein Founda• Remodeling • Additions tion Jr. Scholar Golden Ticket was chosen as the winning ticket • Siding • Silestone of the week. “As a Jr. Scholar, Connor is encouraged by the Feinstein • Granite • Painting Foundation to help those in need,” Principal Haidemenos said. • Roofing “As a Golden Ticket winner, Connor has the opportunity to donate funds from the foundation to a charity of his choice. It’s great to see the foundation foster the philanthropic efforts of our students and recognize our Jr. Scholars’ dedication to helping others.” Connor Gallagher As the Golden Ticket winner, Gallagher received a $500 grant that he can donate to either his school or a non-profit of his choice. Gallagher chose to donate his grant to the Doorways Food Pantry, a local food pantry that supports Seekonk Peter Batty residents. RI Reg. # 33335 / MA Reg. # CS51340 In addition to his $500 grant, Gallagher was presented with a Feinstein Foundation winning package on March 11 by Principal Residential / Commercial Haidemenos and Assistant Principal Dave Graf. The winning package included a Feinstein Foundation sweatshirt, a commemorative coin from an Apollo Mission, an autograph from Feinstein Foundation founder Alan Shawn Feinstein and a Golden Ticket winner certificate. The Aitken Elementary School also received a $5,000 grant from the Feinstein Foundation alongside Gallagher’s Golden Ticket. The School Committee voted to accept the grant at its meeting on Monday, March 22. “We are pleased to share that Connor was the first Golden Ticket winner within the Aitken Elementary School,” Superintendent Drolet said. “We are thankful to the Feinstein Foundation for recognizing Connor and also for its generous donations to him and our district.” Added Superintendent Drolet, “We recognized Connor at our 508-336-9103 last School Committee Meeting and it was great to acknowledge 113 Taunton Ave him along with his family in person. We celebrated his benevolent act of donating to our local food pantry, Seekonk, MA Same Location for 40 Years which should be commended.” To date, the district has received $15,000 from the Feinstein Foundation. All funds from the foundation support school activities. About the Feinstein Foundation Alan Shawn Feinstein founded the Feinstein Foundation in 1991 to encourage youngsters to help others in need. As of 2019 over 250,000 children have been in his school program and are recognized as Feinstein Junior Scholars for promising to do good deeds for others. There are currently 175 Feinstein Leadership Schools as well as The Alan Shawn Feinstein College of Education and Professional Studies at The University of Rhode Island, The Feinstein College of Arts and Sciences at Roger Williams University and The Feinstein School of Education and Human Development at Rhode Island college.
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The Reporter April 2021
Seekonk Public Library The Community Circle Project at Seekonk Library Wednesday, April 28 at 5 pm and 6:30 pm
Seekonk Library will be hosting Sandy Coleman’s Community Circle Project on April 28 at 5 pm and 6:30 pm. Adults, families and children are invited to participate in a unique, relaxing program that combines art with a sense of community. Using the simple shape of a circle and basic drawing supplies, participants create art that reflects their thoughts or feelings. While drawing, participants will engage in meaningful conversation about common bonds and the desire for good in our lives, our community and the world. Participants will be led by local artist and Sandy Coleman Community Art Circle Project founder, Sandy Coleman. At the end of the program, everyone will be invited to take a photo of their completed circle to be exhibited on the Community Circle Project website. No experience is necessary to participate, just a desire to draw, create and build a sense of community through art. To register for this virtual program to be held via Zoom, visit the events calendar at seekonkpl.org. This program is funded by the Seekonk Cultural Council and hosted virtually by Seekonk Public Library. Sandy Coleman has taught art classes at the Attleboro Arts Museum for five years. Her acrylic paintings and mixed-media collage works reflect her fascination with torn paper used as ‘paint.’ Sandy’s creations have been featured on HGTV, in Oprah magazine, and in exhibitions at colleges, museums and galleries in the Boston and Providence area. “Change happens in big and small ways and each of us can play a role in that through the power of art for relaxation, reflection and reflection.”
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Let’s Go Plant Shopping
Does the thought of a new hosta, trillium or peony cultivar or a variegated ginkgo make you mad with desire? Join Seekonk Public Library for the virtual program Satisfying Your Plant Lust on Thursday, April 8 at 6 PM to enjoy exploring the best specialty nurseries in New England. Register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org to receive the login information the week of the program. If you’re not familiar with Zoom, contact the library at library@seekonkpl.org for assistance. The presenter is Jana Milbocker, a garden designer, speaker, and author. She published The Garden Tourist: 120 Destination Gardens and Nurseries in the Northeast in 2018, and The Garden Tourist’s New England in 2020.
Tiny House Lessons on Simple, Sustainable Living: An Earth Day Presentation
Tiny house living is not an option many will choose, but what lessons can we learn about sustainability and simple living from those who do? Join Seekonk Public Library on Thursday, April 15 at 6 PM to learn more in this Earth Day program. Isa Bauer, professional tiny house designer, will answer your questions about tiny houses and share manageable steps we all can take to preserve natural resources. Learn eco-friendly practices, large and small, you can incorporate into your life to help heal the natural environment. Register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org to receive the login information the week of the program. If you’re not familiar with Zoom, contact the library at library@seekonkpl.org for assistance.
Celebrate May the Fourth with Virtual Star Wars Trivia! Tuesday, May 4, 2021 at 6 PM
The Seekonk Public Library is hosting a virtual Star Wars Trivia Night in honor of Stars Wars Day, otherwise known as May the Fourth. Star Wars fans are invited to share their knowledge of everything in a galaxy far, far away. This is a pub-style contest, with 5 rounds of 10 questions each, plus 5 bonus questions. If there is a tie there will be a 6th round of questions. To register as an individual or team (up to 5 people) visit seekonkpl.org and click on our events calendar. An invitation to the Zoom meeting will be sent to all players by 4 pm on the day of the contest. For information, visit seekonkpl.org, email agreil@ seekonkpl.org, or call the library at 508-3368230 x56141.
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Virtual Nonfiction Book Club: The Body
by Bill Bryson Join us for a lively discussion of The Body: A Guide for Occupants by Bill Bryson through Zoom on Tuesday, April 27th, 2021 at 6:00 pm. Register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org to receive an invitation to the Zoom call approximately one hour before the start time. The title is available digitally through Overdrive, or you may pick up a print copy at the library. For information: www.seekonkpl.org or Contact: library@seekonkpl.org.
April 2021
National Library Week April 4-10
Seekonk Public Library encourages all community members to visit their website to explore and access virtual services and programs. Seekonk Public Library offers a wide array of online resources that are available from the comfort of home. April 4-10, 2021 is National Library Week, a time to highlight the essential role libraries, librarians and library workers play in transforming lives and strengthening communities. The theme for this year’s National Library Week is “Welcome to your library,” which promotes the idea that libraries extend far beyond the four walls of a building and that everyone is welcome to use their services. Whether people visit virtually or in person, libraries are accessible and inclusive places that foster a sense of belonging and community through learning, discovery and exploration. During these challenging times, libraries of all types have been going above and beyond to adapt to our changing world by expanding their resources and continuing to meet the needs of their patrons. Libraries across the country are making a difference in people’s lives by providing electronic learning resources and wi-fi access for students and workers who may lack internet access at home. Seekonk Public Library is supporting the community by providing curbside services (in addition to in-person browsing), loaning mobile WiFi hotspots, and offering virtual services. This National Library Week, the public can show their appreciation and support for libraries by visiting their library’s website, following them on social media and using the hashtag #NationalLibraryWeek. First sponsored in 1958, National Library Week is a national observance sponsored by the American Library Association and libraries of all types across the country each April. For more information, visit the library’s website at seekonkpl. org.
Seekonk Public Library To Move Forward With New Building
What started as a vision over six years ago is taking a major step forward. The Seekonk Public Library’s Board of Trustees voted on Wednesday, March 24th, to place its new library proposal on the May Town Meeting agenda. “It’s time,” said Michael Durkay, President of the Library’s Board of Trustees. “Our hard work planning for this resulted in a $7.3M capital grant from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners. The pandemic has proven how vital the library is to the community. Yet, our building does not meet the needs of our community. It’s time to move forward.” The highlights of the new building include: • HVAC, air filtering and handling systems that will be COVID-19 informed in order to protect the community • An enlarged Children’s Room with actual space for Story Time and other activities • A dedicated Young Adult Room with socialization and study spaces as well as access to the young adult collection • Community meeting room that has accessible after-hours exiting to the main entrance while the doors to the Library proper are locked • Small group study spaces for individual and collaborative group work The total project cost is $19.6M. With the $7.3M grant, the town will be asked to pay for $12.3M which for the average household will amount to $1.96 a week for the average household in Seekonk. Once the project is approved, the Seekonk Library Trust will begin a capital campaign to raise $1M which will bring down the cost to the taxpayer even further. While the Library will be engaged in public education, the Friends of the Seekonk Public Library has formed Seekonk Taxpay-
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ers for a New Library in order to bring as many people into this effort as possible. It has started a new campaign called The Initiative for the Seekonk Public Library. “We’ll be advocating for the new library,” said Irene Frechette, President of the Friends. “Advocacy during COVID is different. We’re engaged in one-to-one outreach and getting a great response. It’s clear the community wants the new building and we’re working to make sure that happens.” SEEKONK PUBLIC LIBRARY NEW BUILDING: 2 2 2 Seekonk Taxpayers has a new website, Seekonk.voteyesforourlibrary.org, which tells people all about the project and enables them to sign up as supporters. The campaign can also be found on social media: On Facebook seekonksnewlibrary On Instagram @seekonksnewlibrary On Twitter @NewSPLibrary “It is essential for supporters to come to the May 10th Town Meeting to show how much we want a new library,” said Frechette. “Our voices need to be heard. Our hands need to be raised because $1.96 a week is less than a cup of coffee.”
Fun, Free, Virtual Programs for Tweens and Teens
The Seekonk Public Library presents the following virtual programs for students in grades 6-12.
*Teen Advisory Board
Thursday Apr 1, 2021 at 4:00 PM
The Teen Advisory Board is a group of committed volunteers who get together each month to chat, play games and plan upcoming library programs. Participants can earn community service credit for attending. An application is available on seekonkpl.org/ teens.
*Teen Virtual Craft: Suncatchers Thursday Apr 15, 2021 at 3:00 PM
It’s Spring! Celebrate the sunny days by making a beautiful suncatcher to hang in the window. After registering come to the library to pick up supplies.
*Virtual Sewing Class: Trendy Mending Thursday April 22, 2021 at 3:00 PM
Pick up a supply kit and then join instructor Ellen Brown for this workshop on how to revive, repair and upcycle your worn-out clothes. *RSVP online to reserve a space in this program. You will receive a Zoom invite the day of the program. For information, visit seekonkpl.org/teens, email teens@seekonkpl.org, or call the library at 508-336-8230 x56141.
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The Reporter April 2021
Programs for Children and Families Spot the International Space Station Starting Wednesday, April 7
Did you know that the International Space Station regularly flies over Seekonk? It’s true! And if you know when to look up in the sky, you can see it with just your eyes. Kids and families with children ages 6+ are invited to learn more about the International Space Station with an International Space Station book to check out, a template and instructions to make a model of the space station (this is self guided, ‘at home’ activity) and information on how we can all plan to “spot the station” at the same time from our own backyards or perhaps together in the Meadows with social distancing. Register and receive the book, template, and instructions for making the model will be available for pick up starting Wednesday, April 7. Dates and times for spotting the station will be announced after that date.
Minecraft for Education Club
Tuesdays at 6:30PM starting April 27
Children in grades 3-5 are invited to enter into an adventure with Minecraft Education. We will explore as we create and build fantastic new worlds together in Minecraft Education. Minecraft
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Learn to Hand Sew: Donut Project Tuesday, April 20 at 11 AM
In this live sewing demonstration, kids ages 8+ will watch sewing teacher Ellen Brown teach everyone how to make a decorative, felt donut. She will teach the basic running stitch as well as how to thread a needle, tie a knot, sew on a button, stuff the donut and sew it closed. Register for the program and a Zoom link will be sent one hour prior to the start time of the live program. A materials kit that includes supplies to make the donut will be reserved for all registrants and should be picked up in the days prior to the event. Taught by Ellen Brown, sewing teacher, author and owner of Sew It Workshop Sewing Studio.
Drive-Up Movie Wednesday, April 21 at 7:15 PM
Join us in the library parking lot for a drive up movie showing! Visit seekonkpl.org’s calendar of events for the title of this family movie. Our library parking lot will be converted into a drive in theater, with the use of a giant inflatable movie screen (16 feet tall!). Audio will be provided via FM frequency inside your vehicles. Please make note of COVID safety protocols- there will be limited space available and attendees MUST remain in their cars for the duration of the event. Attendees are welcomed to bring snacks, drinks, etc. BUT please no lawn chairs or seating outside of vehicles. No hatchback or open truck bed seating. Event registration is not transferrable. Your library card will be required for admittance to the event. One registration/library card required per vehicle. The film begins at 7:30PM sharp, you must arrive and be in your designated parking spot by 7:15 PM. This event is for ALL ages, registration is required. Film is rated G, 1 hour 53 minutes run time. Weather permitting
Drop in for a take-home, hands-on activity to celebrate Earth Day. As supplies last.
STORYTIMES
Storytime on the Go Throughout April
Create a storytime experience at home with Storytime On the Go packets. Each packet will include 6 books and an age appropriate early literacy activity. So easy...just grab and go! ave questions or need assistance? Contact Miss Sharon & Miss Sandie at childrens@seekonkpl.org or call (508) 336-8230 x56140.
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Earth Day Take & Make Craft Thursday, April 22
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” ~Nelson Mandela
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Education Edition varies a bit from the traditional Minecraft platform in that we will be utilizing lesson plans and options that are not available in the traditional Minecraft edition. No Minecraft experience or personal membership required. Participants must register, have their own device and have a free Zoom account. Registrants must also commit to the 4 session dates and agree to follow the online/ virtual behavioral guidelines to be set out by the instructor. Meets April 27, May 4, May 11 and May 18.
Babies and Books (virtual via Zoom) Monday, April 26, 10AM
Join Miss Sharon for a live, spring themed storytime for children ages 2 and under. There will be a story, finger plays, music and yes, even bubbles! Everyone is invited to wear yellow. Older siblings are always welcomed to attend. To receive the Zoom invite, registration required at seekonkpl.org calendar of events Please have a scarf or shaker type instrument nearby for your child to use during the program.
Preschool Storytime (virtual via Zoom) Wednesday, April 28 1:30PM
Join Miss Sandie for a virtual storytime for children ages 2-5. Younger siblings are always welcomed to attend. To receive the Zoom invite, registration required at seekonkpl.org calendar of events.
April 2021
News And Notes From Blanding Library by Leslie Patterson
Online Gardening Workshop
The Blanding will be hosting an online workshop from Blackstone Valley Veggie Gardens on “The Pollinator Garden” on Tuesday, April 13 at 6:30 via Zoom. Learn how to attract bees, butterflies and hummingbirds to your garden to pollinate your fruits, veggies and flowers. You can find a Facebook event at: https://www.facebook.com/events/1319472648394028 The library also hosted an online workshop at the end of March on container gardening. To find out more about online events sponsored by the library, check the library’s website www.blandinglibrary.net or visit the Blanding Public Library’s Facebook page. Just in time for Earth Day, you can find these new books at the Blanding: “100 Plants to Feed the Monarch: How to Create a Healthy Habitat to Sustain North America’s Most Beloved Butterfly”, as well as “Rescuing the Planet: Protecting Half the Land to Heal the Earth” by Tony Hiss, with an introduction by the distinguished naturalist E.O. Wilson. As of this writing, the library is open to visitors from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday and for curbside pickup only from 4 to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday (call ahead to arrange for pick-up). “Returning to full regular hours this month is subject to Covid infection rates remaining low”, according to library director Whitney Pape. Please check the Blanding’s website or call 508252-4236 for the latest information. Please continue to return library items into the outdoor book drop. Meeting space is not available at present, though a few visitors at a time are welcome to shop at our ongoing used book sale in the hall. Masks and social distancing are required in all parts of the building.
Children’s Library Welcomes Spring
April will feature a new Story Walk for the spring season titled “The Tortoise and the Jackrabbit”, written by Susan Lowell and illustrated by Jim Harris. Come visit and read this fun story to learn about protecting the environment. The library will be offering two new Take & Make crafts. One is a paper bag kite or windsock for younger patrons under five years old to fly in the wind, and for children with a little more patience, a kit to create a Japanese Koinobori windsock or “carp streamer”. Kits are limited so check with the library soon. This project is made possible by the Friends of the Blanding Library. These kits offer a wonderful way to enjoy a story outdoors! Miss Joyce welcomes the new season with her adventures featuring wind, kites and springtime. You can join her with stories and songs by connecting to either our children’s Facebook page or visiting Blanding Library’s website, www.blandinglibrary.net. “Through Me to You” Puppetry is offering two new stories each month featuring puppet Newton, beginning with “Waiting is Not Easy” by popular children’s author Mo Willems. Newton can be found on both our website calendar and the children’s Facebook page.
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PACE Child Care Works, a full-service child care resource working with local libraries and their communities offers two new and free programs this month. Kids Yoga with Create Power Yoga and the ParentChild Plus Parent Cafe may be found on the Pace Child Care Works website or Facebook page. PACE has held Family Yoga classes at the library in the past and now offers them virtually. The ParentChild Cafe offers informal conversation and support with other parents. April is National Poetry Month. You can find quite a variety of poetry books on display in our children’s area waiting for someone to check them out. Dr. Seuss once wrote, “You are never too old, too wacky, too wild, to pick up a book and read to a child.”
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The Reporter April 2021
Dining Guide Dine Out or Take Out! Or Try a Recipe at Home... A Seasonal Spring Surprise
(Culinary.net) You can almost feel spring in the air, and with the warmer weather comes delicious, delectable foods. From casseroles to fresh fruits and wholesome vegetables, a change of season offers something to look forward to for nearly every foodie. A spring dish that is sure to impress is this Cheesy Asparagus Tart. It has melty cheese, cooked asparagus and an under layer of puff pastry baked to golden brown perfection. This tart is a perfect appetizer before Sunday brunch or to cut up and take outside for some al fresco dining this spring. Plus, it’s a yummy way to add vegetables to your kids’ diet (and yours, too). Find more spring recipes and dining ideas at Culinary.net.
Cheesy Asparagus Tart
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Servings: 8-10 Ingredients • 5 cups water • 1 pound asparagus • ice water • 2 teaspoons vegetable oil • 1/4 teaspoon salt, plus additional, to taste, divided • 1/4 teaspoon pepper, plus additional, to taste, divided • flour, for dusting • 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed • 1 cup grated fontina cheese • 1 cup grated gruyere cheese • 1 tablespoon shallot, minced • 2 egg yolks • 3 tablespoons milk • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg • 1 lemon, zest only
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April 2021
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Support Local Restaurants Directions: 1. Heat oven to 400 F. 2. In large skillet, add water and asparagus. Cook 5-8 minutes until asparagus is bright green. 3. Drain asparagus and soak in ice water. 4. In large bowl, mix drained asparagus, vegetable oil, salt and pepper until combined. 5. Flour surface area. Using rolling pin, roll out pastry to 10-by-16-inch rectangle. Transfer pastry to parchment-lined baking sheet. Prick pastry with fork. Bake about 12 minutes, or until golden brown. Cool slightly on baking sheet. 6. In large bowl, mix fontina cheese, gruyere cheese, shallot, egg yolks, milk, nutmeg and salt and pepper, to taste, until combined. Spread cheese over pastry, leaving 1 inch around edges. Lay asparagus over cheese mixture. 7. Bake 5 minutes, or until cheese has melted. 8. Sprinkle lemon zest over tart and serve.
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The Reporter April 2021
Rehoboth Council on Aging A Municipal Department of the Town
55 Bay State Road, Rehoboth, MA 02769
Phone 508-252-3372 Fax 508-252-4716
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Monday through Thursday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Fridays 8:00 a.m. to 12 noon
Kitchen hours: Monday – Thursdays 8:00AM to 12 noon
The COA remains close until further notice to the public. Exceptions by appointment only. For pressing issues please call the Senior Center at 508-252-3372. Please note our new temporary address 183 Winthrop Street, Rehoboth, MA.
• The COA will be closed on April 19th for Patriot’s Day • DEA National Drug Take Back Day - April 24th from 10-2pm at the Rehoboth Police Station • Meals on Wheels is still being delivered by our volunteers. • We are continuing to make masks for Seniors. Please call if you need one or two masks. We are in need of cotton fabric and elastic for masks. We are accepting yarn donations for hats. If you can donate, please call and we will set up a safe and secure drop off.
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Due to Covid-19 Pandemic, all classes are canceled. We will resume when possible Thank you for understanding. • Gert’s Café: Lunch is served at Gert’s Café Mondays at 12 Noon. $3.00 Donation • Tuesday Lunch: Tuesdays from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM • The COA Breakfast: Wednesdays from 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM • Tasty Thursdays Lunch: Held on the last Thursday of the Month at 12 noon. Cost $3.00 donation. • Men’s Morning Coffee: Fridays 9:00 AM • Card Games: Mondays at 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM - Cribbage; Wednesdays at 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM Hi-Lo Jack • Art Classes: Michelle’s Art Classes Wednesdays at 10:30. Cost $4.00 Donation • Knitting and Crochet Group: Fridays at 10:00 AM • Ladies Sewing and Quilting: Tuesdays at 10:30 AM. • Blood Pressures & Glucose Screenings: Please contact the COA 508-252-3372 for more information. • Podiatry Clinic with Dr. Marian Markowitz: Please call 508252-3372 to schedule your appointment. • Cardio Drums: Mondays @ 2:00 pm • Tai Chi Classes: Tuesdays at 9:00 AM. Cost $3.00 Donation • Line Dancing Classes: Tuesdays at 10:00 AM. Cost is $3.00 Donation • Chair Yoga: Thursdays at 9:00 Cost $3.00 Donation • Zumba: Thursdays at 10:00 AM. Cost of $3.00 Donation • Meals on Wheels: Please contact Bristol Elders, Inc. at (508) 675-2101 for information on the Meals on Wheels program. • Senior Citizens Club: 1st Thursday @ 12:30 & 3rd Thursday @ 12 Noon • Friends of the Rehoboth Elderly meets at 10:30 AM on the 3rd Monday of the month.
Veteran’s Information and Benefits:
Veterans Service Officer – Jake Kramer . Call 508-252-4467 for an Appointment(s) as needed. Office hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, & Thursday—8:00 AM to – 4:00 PM; Friday – 8:00 AM to Noon
April 2021
S.H.I.N.E / OUTREACH
The COA’s Outreach/SHINE worker Bradley Marshall is available Mondays thru Wednesdays 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM and Thursdays 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM to assist you with Social Service needs from Fuel, Food, housing, Medical Insurance, and intervention help. Please call for an appointment at 508-252-3372.
Elder Dental Program
The Reporter
Smith Insurance Group AUTO • HOME • BUSINESS • LIFE Denise Smith
Overall good health includes a healthy mouth. Bacteria from the mouth can cause infections in other parts of the body, especially when the immune system is weakened by disease or medical treatments. Taking good care of your mouth is very important. Gum disease develops when plaque – a sticky film of bacteria – is allowed to build up along and under the gums. People who have health conditions, such as diabetes are also at risk because they are more open to infections and may be less able to fight bacteria that invade the gums. What can you do to reduce your risk? Seeing both your dentist and physician to spot and treat various Over 20 health conditions relating to gum disease is great first step. Good home care such as brushing and flossing, as well as visiting your dentist regularly are important. The Elder Dental Program (EDP) is a non- profit, program that provides quality, affordable oral health care to low-income seniors, ages 60 and older, through a group of community dentists who volunteer to provide treatment at reduced, sliding-scale fees. The EDP helps seniors who have incomes that fall at 250% or less of the Federal Poverty Level. Care not covered by the sliding-scale fee schedule is absorbed by the dentist. We find seniors a “dental home” where they can continue to have regular care, as well as emergency dental services, at reduced fees they can afford. For more information about this program contact Chris Weylman at 774-203-1326 or email at Cweylman@ community vna.com
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Mission: The Rehoboth Council on Aging shall coordinate and carry out programs designed to meet the needs, problems and benefits for the aging population of Rehoboth, and shall do so in coordination with the Programs of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. 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, inter-generational activities, crafting programs and other programs beneficial to our seniors. c. Provide information on health care plans from the Health Connector, Medicare, MassHealth (Medicaid) and other State and Federal Assistance programs.
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The Reporter April 2021
Seekonk Human Services We will be closed Monday, April 19th to observe Patriots’ Day
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On Wednesday, April 7th we will be having an Easter Grab and Go. We will be providing a meal and dessert per person. The cost for Seekonk residents is $3 and the cost for non-residents will be $5. The meal will be crustless turkey pot pie, mashed potatoes, a biscuit and applesauce by Bristol Elder Services. You will also be receiving a Easter cupcake from Buttercream Bakery a local bakery in Seekonk. If you are interested in participating please call our office at 508336-8772 by Monday, April 5th.
Health Benefits of Walking
You carry your own body weight when you walk. This is known as weight-bearing exercise. Some of the benefits include: • increased cardiovascular and pulmonary (heart and lung) fitness • Reduced risk of heart disease and stroke • Improved management of conditions such as hypertension (high blood pressure), high cholesterol, joint and muscular pain or stiffness, and diabetes • Stronger bones and improved balance • increased muscle strength and endurance • Reduced body fat
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• Chair Yoga: Monday & Wednesday at 10am. Channel 9 Seekonk • Zoom BINGO!: Mon & Thurs at 1pm • Zoom Trivia: Tues at 1:30pm—2:00pm • Zoom Coffee Chat: Wed @ 1:30pm • Tai Chi: Fridays at 10am. Channel 9 *Note: Zoom activities can be done on a laptop, tablet, and smart phone or by dialing in the specific number for that activity. If you would like to participate but don’t have a tablet, please call the Seekonk Public Library at 508-336-8230. If you are interested in participating in a zoom activity call the office to sign up.
Nutritional Meals To Go Tuesdays & Wednesdays
Seekonk Human Services will be working with Bristol Elder Services to provide nutritional meals for lunch on Tuesdays and Wednesdays to go. Meals come completely cooked and prepackaged. All you need to do is heat it up! Meals need to be ordered the day before by 9:30am. Payment is $2.25 per meal which will be due at the time of pickup. Pick up will be between 11am—
12pm. If you are unable to pick up at that time or are experiencing financial hardship please reach out to the office to speak with the Outreach Department. April’s menu will be available on our Facebook page or by calling the office at 508-336-8772.
Attorney: Overview Of Legal Services
Elizabeth Elmasian will be available for phone consults to discuss the following topics. 1. Power of Attorney - A description of the legal document, what it consists of and when such a document is necessary. 2. The explanation and description of a Health Care Proxy and Living Will; the difference between both documents and which is recognized in Massachusetts 3. A brief overview, purpose and need for a Will. Explanation of intestacy laws without a will *Please call to set up your phone appointment at 508-336-877
Fuel Assistance
If you have never had fuel assistance and would like to apply or if you need help filing your application, please call Seekonk Human Services at 508-336-8772 to make an appointment with the Outreach Department. Fuel Assistance begins November 1st. Income Guidelines: Maximum income for 1 person is $37,360, for 2 people is $48,855, for 3 people is $60,351, and for 4 people is $71,846.
Covid-19 Vaccine Preregistration Process
There are different ways to find a vaccine appointment if you're eligible: • Preregister at VaccineSignUp.mass.gov or by calling 211 to be notified when it's your turn to schedule an appointment at one of 7 mass vaccination locations: Fenway Park, Gillette Stadium, Reggie Lewis Center, DoubleTree Hotel in Danvers, Eastfield Mall in Springfield, Natick Mall and former Circuit City in Dartmouth. • Use VaxFinder.mass.gov to search for appointments at pharmacies, health care providers, and other community locations Massachusetts’ preregistration system makes it easier to request and schedule an appointment at one of the 7 mass vaccination locations. Eligible people can preregister for a COVID-19 vaccine appointment at mass vaccination locations only. More locations will be added to the system in April. Once you sign up for preregistration, you’ll receive weekly status updates. You can opt out at any time if you find an ap-
The Reporter
April 2021 pointment elsewhere. Once an appointment is available, you’ll be contacted with the opportunity to book the appointment and have 24 hours to accept it. Massachusetts receives a limited supply of COVID-19 vaccine doses from the federal government each week. Due to high demand and very limited supply, it may take several weeks to schedule an appointment or to be notified that an appointment is available at mass vaccination locations.
Seekonk Veterans Services
What the COVID-19 Relief Package Means for Veterans
The $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package will assist hundreds of thousands of veterans across the country who lost their jobs during the pandemic. It includes $17 billion in health care, retraining and other assistance programs offered by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). "Like any other segment of the population, the pandemic has had a significant financial distress for our veterans community,” said Ralph Bozella, chairman of the Veteran Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission at the American Legion, an organization of about 1.8 million wartime veterans, most of them older adults. At the peak of the pandemic, there were roughly 700,000 veterans across the country who had lost their jobs, Bozella says. About 50 percent of those worked in the service industry, one of the hardest hit by COVID-19. During the pandemic, VA health care facilities treated over 230,000 infected veterans. More than 10,000 died from the virus. VA Secretary Denis McDonough says the department's biggest challenge in vaccinating veterans has been the limited supply of vaccine doses. “What I hear from our docs is, ‘From the moment we get it, our allotments are in arms within two to three days.'" Stimulus checks. Individual veterans who receive VA benefits and did not file a 2018 or 2019 tax return should not have to take additional steps to receive the latest payment. This round of checks will be up to $1,400 for eligible individuals who reported $75,000 or less in adjusted gross income. Expands health care. The largest allocation of money for VA programs, $14.5 billion, will be used to support COVID-19 vaccine distribution, mental health care services, telehealth options, suicide prevention, women's health, and homeless veterans or those in danger of becoming homeless. Waives and reimburses VA copays during the pandemic. The VA received $1 billion to waive copays charged for VA health care and prescriptions during the pandemic. The agency can also reimburse for payments submitted starting April 6, 2020, and running through Sept. 30, 2021. Rapid job retraining for vets affected by the pandemic. Veterans who are unemployed as a result of the pandemic and do not have other veteran education benefits may be eligible for up to 12 months of rapid retraining assistance and a housing allowance. Improvements to state veteran homes. Construction grants and payments will be distributed to state veteran’s homes to improve living conditions for the nation's most vulnerable veterans. Accelerates processing of compensation and pension claims. Since the pandemic began, the number of backlogged claims has piled up from 76,000 to 212,000, slowing the delivery of benefits to disabled veterans. The VA now estimates that it will process 112,000 claims by September 2022. It will also reduce pending benefits hearings and intake requests for the Board of Veterans’ Appeals. You may also contact me with any questions you may have. James LaFlame, Veterans Service Officer 508-336-2940
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* NOTE: Seekonk Human Services offers many legal, financial, recreational, medical screening and/or other activities and services by volunteers or nominal cost practitioners. Seniors participating in these services/activities do so with the understanding that Seekonk Human Services, the Town of Seekonk or its employees do not assume any legal or other responsibility for any advice or services rendered by such volunteers or nominal cost practitioners.
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The Reporter April 2021
IN MEMORIAM Elizabeth (Cabral) Wilson
Jon Richard Pomfret
William W. Tripp & Cheetham Funeral Homes
Rehoboth – Jon Richard Pomfret, 59 of Rehoboth, MA. died Wednesday March 3, 2021 at home after a long illness. He was the husband of Joanne (Kelley) Pomfret. Jon was born in Fall River, a son of Carolyn (Douglass) Pomfret of Swansea, and the late Richard Pomfret. He was a Welder and Crane Operator for the Cardi Corp., for many years. Jon was a graduate of Wentworth Institute. He was a Rehoboth resident Jon Richard Pomfret all of his life, and had attended Christ Church in Swansea. Jon enjoyed fishing, deer and goose hunting. He was a member of the Rumford Hunting and Fishing Club. He enjoyed farming and grew the best sweet corn, he also enjoyed cooking with his friends. Jon also enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, and hanging out in the barn with his friends. Jon was also a New England Patriots Fan. Besides his wife and mother, he is survived by his children Matthew R. Pomfret of Warren and Casey Harrison of Swansea. Mr. Pomfret was the brother of Libby Pomfret on Dunbarton, N.H. and Bonnie Pomfret of Wayland, MA. He was the grandfather of Lillian Harrison and Olivia Harrison. He was also survived by several nieces and nephews. A future Celebration of his Life will be held at a time to be announced. Calling hours and flowers are omitted. Gifts in his memory may be sent to Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516 or www.woundedwarriorproject.org. Arrangements by SMITH FUNERAL and MEMORIAL SERVICES, Warren RI. www.wjsmithfh.com
Elizabeth (Cabral) Wilson, 79, formerly of Chestnut St., Rehoboth, passed away Saturday, Feb. 27, 2021 at Blue Hills Health and Rehabilitation Center. Born Aug. 5, 1941, in Providence, she was the daughter of the late John and Cecilia Cabral. She was raised in East Providence and had lived in Colorado Springs, CO before moving to Rehoboth in 1965. Elizabeth was a member and former Deacon of the Rehoboth Congregational Church where she had been active in the W.K.B. Women’s Elizabeth (Cabral) Wilson Fellowship, the Sunshine Chairman for many years for the Rehoboth Garden Club, a member of the University Society of Providence, a member of the Rehoboth Senior Center, and served on the reunion committee for the East Providence High School class of 1959. A talented artist, she taught children’s art classes, doing still life and cartooning for 20 years. She leaves her son, Duane Wilson of Wrentham; her daughter and son-in-law, Bonnie and Scott Meagher of Rehoboth; and her grandchildren, John, Sabrina and Wesley. A graveside service was held on Thursday March 4, at 11am at the Rehoboth Village Cemetery, Bay State Rd, Rehoboth. Calling hours were held on Wednesday March 3, 2021 in the Rebello Funeral Home and Crematory, 901 Broadway, East Providence.
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Inez M. Stoddard, 94, of Sunapee, NH, formerly of Rehoboth, MA, died peacefully on February 27, 2021 at Harris Hill Center. She was the wife of the late Edward C. “Red” Stoddard. Born in Providence, she was a daughter of the late Walter E. Horton, Sr. and Catherine S. (Pierce) Horton. Mrs. Stoddard was a graduate of Westbrook College in Maine and employed as a sales associate with Cherry & Webb Department Store for over 20 years until her retirement. She leaves her loving children: Wayne M. Stoddard of Sunapee, NH and Dru M. Duell and her husband Thomas of Seekonk. She was the mother of the late Clay E. Stoddard. Cherished grandmother of Derek Stoddard, Brooke Robinson, Justin Stoddard, and the late Benjamin Stoddard. She was the sister of the late Walter E. Horton, Jr. and Sally Duncan. She will be missed by the extended Stoddard and Horton families. Her funeral and burial in Rehoboth Village Cemetery will be private. Calling hours are respectfully omitted. Arrangements are in the care of the Home of J.H. WILLIAMS & CO., 210 Taunton Avenue, East Providence, RI. For online messages of condolence, kindly visit www.jhwilliamsfuneralhome.com
April 2021 The Reporter
Carol F. (Harris) Malloy
Rehoboth – Carol F. (Harris) Malloy, 73, passed away on Wednesday, March 24, 2021. She was the beloved wife of the late Ernest D. Malloy. Born in Pawtucket, she was a daughter of the late George D., Jr. and Doris (Robidou) Harris. Carol worked at V-Tron Electronics, South Attleboro for eighteen years until retiring, and was previously employed by Texas Instruments, Attleboro and Blackstone Webbing in Pawtucket for twenty years. She was a dedicated and hard worker who always went out of her way for others. Carol enjoyed spending time with her family, friends and aniCarol F. (Harris) Malloy mals. She especially enjoyed caring for her dogs and horses. Carol was a generous person who opened her heart and her home to all. She will be lovingly remembered by all whose lives she has touched over the past seventy-three years. Carol leaves two sons, David R. Malloy of Granville, NY and James W. Malloy of Rehoboth; two grandchildren, James D. Malloy and Samantha K. Malloy; two brothers, George D. Harris, III of Cumberland and Richard F. Harris of Pawtucket; three sisters, Gayle Vandenkurk, Carrie Harris and Denise Harris all of Pawtucket; a close family friend, Randee Hiller and many nieces and nephews. She was the sister of the late Diana Crotchwell, Jean Vaillencourt and Gary J. Harris. Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic all services will be private. Memorial gifts to the Rehoboth Animal Shelter, 148 Peck St., Rehoboth, MA 02769 would be appreciated. Arrangements are entrusted to William W. Tripp Funeral Home, Pawtucket, RI. For online condolences visit: TRIPPFUNERALHOME.com
Patrick Martin Cridge
Patrick Martin Cridge, 52, of Seekonk, died peacefully December 15, 2020 at his brother’s home in Rehoboth. Born in Providence, he was a son of the late James W. Cridge and Judith Ann (Bowman) Cridge. Patrick was employed as a maintenance supervisor at Rhode Island Country Club for many years until his retirement. He leaves his loving brother, Michael J. Cridge & his wife Rebecca Carpenter of Rehoboth. Cherished uncle of Torrance Carpenter of North Dighton, Gareth Carpenter of Rehoboth, and Sebastian Carpenter of Rehoboth. His funeral and burial will be private. Calling hours are respectfully omitted. In lieu of flowers, gift sin his memory to Angelcat Haven Feline Rescue, PO Box 2261, Plainville, MA 02762 will be appreciated. Arrangements are in the care of the Home of J.H. WILLIAMS & CO., 210 Taunton Avenue, East Providence, RI. For online messages of condolence, kindly visit www. jhwilliamsfuneralhome.com
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Cynthia A. McClaine Cynthia A. McClaine, 78 of Rehoboth, MA, passed away peacefully with her family by her side. Born on July 19, 1942 to the late Armond and Catherine Rousseau. She loved to travel with family and friends. Her favorite trip was to Arches National Park in Moab, UT with “Poppy”. She also loved spending time with her grandchildren, while enjoying taking them to the movies and lunch. She is survived by her children, David (Kim) Wilkinson, Christine Britain, Kathyrn (Randall) Coogan and Donna Cynthia A. McClaine (Mike) Brown; grandchildren, Heather Sherer, Allen Elsbury, Brittany Wilkinson, Paige Gass, Chad Brown, Tanner Britain and Matthew Coogan and sibling, Robert Rousseau. Services will be private. Donations may be made to The Wounded Warrior Project.
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64
The Reporter April 2021
Miguel B. Torres Miguel B. Torres, age 76 of Seekonk, Massachusetts passed away on March 9, 2021. He was the husband of his beloved wife, Anna M. (Mendonca) Torres for 43 years. Miguel was born in Sao Miguel, Acores, Portugal on May 1, 1944, the son of late Jose and Maria Lourdes (Barbosa) Torres. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his two daughters. Jennifer A. Tavares and son in-law, James and their children Jonas, Waylon, and Miranda of North Dighton, Massachusetts. Nicole J. Ferreira and son in-law, Brian and Miguel B. Torres their children Kingston and Weston of East Providence, Rhode Island. He was the brother of the late Maria G. Franco of Riverside, Rhode Island, Amelia Couto and spouse, Joseph of Johnston, Rhode Island, and Esmeria Bibeau and spouse, Dan of Greensboro, North Carolina. He is survived by many nieces and nephews. Miguel worked as a Tool and Die Maker for several years before retiring. His family was first and foremost and he will always be honored as a humble, kind, charismatic, and wise soul. He cherished his time as one of the founders of the Holy Rosary Band Society, which brought him such joy. As an avid trumpet player, he carried great pride in passing down his legacy of music to his grandchildren. He will be fondly remembered as an antique car enthusiast cruising locally. May he Rest In Peace. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12pm at Our Lady of the Rosary Church, 21 Traverse Street Providence, Rhode Island 02903 on Saturday, May 22,2021. Masks and social distancing required. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to the Holy Rosary Band Society PO Box 14379 East Providence, Rhode Island 02914.
Barbara A. Christopher Barbara A. Christopher, 88, of Seekonk, died peacefully on Friday, March 26, 2021 at Hattie Ide Chaffee Home. She was the loving wife of 65 years to Raymond “Mike” Christopher, Jr. Born in Providence, she was the daughter of the late Gunnar A. Carlson and Freda M. (Aspinall) Carlson. Barbara was a graduate of URI School of Nursing and worked as a Registered Nurse in her younger years. She enjoyed gardening, knitting, painting, quilting, and basket weaving. In addition to her husband, she Barbara A. Christopher leaves her sister, Clara Baud and her husband Charles of Wakefield, RI, her loving children: Karen L. Christopher of Mansfield, Lynne M. Manchester and her husband Neal of Rehoboth, and Raymond H. Christopher, III and his wife Donna of Arlington, MA. Barbara was the caring grandmother of Haley Manchester, Gunnar Manchester, Meredith Manchester, Craig Smith, Allison Smith, and Andrew Christopher. Her funeral and burial in Quidnessett Memorial Cemetery will be private. Calling hours are respectfully omitted. In lieu of flowers, gifts in Barbara’s memory to the Rehoboth Congregational Church, P.O. Box 325, Rehoboth, MA 02769, www. rehobothcongregational.org will be appreciated. Arrangements are in the care of the Home of J.H. WILLIAMS & CO., 210 Taunton Avenue, East Providence. For online messages of condolence, kindly visit www.jhwilliamsfuneralhome.com.
Rehoboth • Sylvia “Syl” A. (Hennessey) Oliveira, 80, was called to the Lord on Wednesday, February 24, 2021. • Jennie (Lepinski) Kloss, 94, passed away on Sunday, February 28, 2021.
Seekonk • Richard P. Mann, 89, of Seekonk, MA, passed away at his home on February 13, 2021. • Florence M. (Potts) Whelan, 89, of Seekonk, passed away on Friday, February 19, 2021 at the Philip Hulitar Hospice Center.
Competent Concern When the Need Arises Affordable Funeral & Cremation Services regardless of financial circumstance Pre-Planning Specialists Proudly serving Rehoboth & Seekonk families since 1898 Andrew J. Correia, MBIE; President/Funeral Director & Embalmer
210 Taunton Ave., ROUTE 44 • East Providence RI 02914 (401) 434-2600 • www.jhwilliamsfuneralhome.com
• George A. Jette, Sr., 88, passed away on Friday, February 26, 2021. He was the beloved and loving husband of Beatrice B. (Bedard) Jette for sixty-three years. • Raffaela M. (Ascoli) Micheletti, 81, passed away on Thursday, March 4, 2021. • Stephen M. Matuszek 61, passed away Tuesday March 9, 2021. • Kenneth P. “Kenny” McCloskey, 62, of Seekonk passed away on Tuesday, March 9, 2021 at his home. • Francis Fredrick “Frank” DuVally, 80, of Bergeron Street, Seekonk, Ma, died on March 16, 2021.
April 2021 The Reporter
George A. Jette, Sr. Seekonk – George A. Jette, Sr., 88, passed away on Friday, February 26, 2021. He was the beloved and loving husband of Beatrice B. (Bedard) Jette for sixty-three years. Born in Central Falls, RI, he was a son of the late George O. and Diana (Fournier) Jette. George graduated from Sacred Heart Academy in Central Falls and later served in the United States Air Force. While stationed in Alaska, he drove the ALCan Highway twice in a 1950’s Dodge. After military service, he George A. Jette, Sr. worked for Bancroft Racquet Co., followed by a 30-year career as a machinist with Cumberland Engineering. George was a life-long Boston Red Sox fan. He was also a left-handed duckpin bowler and avid competitor for decades, proven by efforts to attend his weekly game in the midst of the 1965 blackout. During most of his 53 years in Seekonk he was a member of the Wampanoag Rod & Gun Club where he achieved multiple awards for marksmanship and trap shooting. He was renowned for having scored 29, the rare perfect hand in Cribbage. At the time of his passing, he was respected as the oldest surviving member. George loved going to the movies, walking by himself to the theater as a young child when tickets were twenty-five cents. His enthusiasm remained constant attending new films with his own children. George was comfortable in the kitchen chopping and endlessly stirring recipes that became family favorites. His “Pépère’s Soup” wrapped you in a hug as you sat to visit and enjoy. He enjoyed opera and his favorite singer was Mario Lanza whose voice provided serenity in all phases of George’s life. George was a “good Dad” in every sense. A hard-working and devoted family man, humble and unassuming. He never complained and accepted personal challenges with stoicism and dignity. He will be lovingly remembered by his immediate and extended family, friends, and those who knew his gentle nature and delighted in his quiet wit. Besides his beloved wife, Beatrice, he leaves a daughter, Therese Jette and her life partner, Peter Albrycht of East Haddam, CT; a son, George A. Jette, Jr. of Pawtucket, RI, and his life partner, Laura Costa of Fall River, MA; a granddaughter, Krystal Marie JetteDias of Seekonk; and sister, Blanche Ferguson of Pawtucket, RI. He was the father of the late, especially loved and missed, Louise Jette, and the brother of the late Gerald Jette, Brother Frederic Jette, FSC, and Jeanne Jette. A heartfelt thanks is sent by his family to the doctors, nurses, caregivers, and emergency workers for the care given George throughout the years. A special appreciation to his primary care physician, his cardiologist, their staff, the staff at Miriam Hospital, and the CCU community at The Rhode Island Hospital for their unique counsel and compassion. Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic all services and burial at Notre Dame Cemetery, Pawtucket, were private. Memorial gifts to Doorways Food Pantry of Seekonk, doorwaysseekonk.wordpress. com, P.O. Box 295, Seekonk, MA 02771, or a charity that has personal meaning for you, would be appreciated. Arrangements are entrusted to William W. Tripp Funeral Home, Pawtucket. TRIPPFUNERALHOME.com
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Lois “Lulu” E. (Viera) Chaffee
Seekonk – Lois “Lulu” E. (Viera) Chaffee, 79, passed away peacefully at home with family by her side on Sunday, March 28, 2021. She was the beloved wife of the late Almont “Red” M. Chaffee, Jr. Born in Attleboro, she was a daughter of the late Anthony, Sr., and Louise (Elderkin) Viera. Lois worked for many years at the former Swank, Inc. in Attleboro. She enjoyed crocheting, adult coloring books and spending time with her family. Lois was also a founding member and former clan mother of the Seaconke Wampanoag Tribe. She will be lovingly remembered by all whose lives she has touched over the past seventy-nine years. Lois leaves five children, Cindy Tetreault and her husband, Gary, of Lois (Viera) Chaffee Attleboro, Sheila Pacheco of Seekonk, Sharon Perry and her husband, Joseph, Jr., of Seekonk, Timothy Chaffee and his wife, Melissa, of Warwick and Lynne Chaffee of Seekonk and her companion, John, of East Providence; five grandchildren, James Kelley, Kaitlyn Noonan, Ryan Kelley, Courtney and Timothy Chaffee; three great-grandchildren, Kayden, Kylie and Dilan; a sister, Betty Lemieux and her husband, Richard; two brothers, David Viera and his companion, Pat, and Allen Viera and his wife, Cheryl; a sister-in-law, Barbara Ferreira and her husband, John; her best friend of forty-five years, Beverly Almeida, and many nieces and nephews. She was the sister of the late Anthony Viera, Jr. The family would like to express their appreciation to the caring staff of Sturdy Memorial Hospital, the Seekonk EMT’s and the Community VNA of Attleboro. Their kindness and compassionate care were greatly appreciated. Relatives and friends were welcomed to attend committal services on Saturday, April 3, 2021 at 11:15 a.m. in Seekonk Cemetery, Newman Ave., Seekonk. Due to seating capacity restrictions, Services at Seekonk Free Methodist Church, were private. Public VISITATION was held on Friday, April 2, 2021 from 4 to 8 p.m. in WILLIAM W. TRIPP Funeral Home, 1008 Newport Ave., Pawtucket. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts to Seekonk Free Methodist Church or Community VNA of Attleboro, 10 Emory St., Attleboro, MA 02703 would be appreciated. TRIPPFUNERALHOME.com
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66
The Reporter April 2021
From the State House Representative Howitt Supports Bill To Provide Financial Relief To Small Businesses And Workers
Boston – State Representative Steven Howitt (R-Seekonk) recently joined with his colleagues to support legislation providing tax relief and additional assistance to Massachusetts small businesses and Steven Howitt employees impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. House Bill 89, An Act financing a program for improvements to the Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund and providing relief to employers and workers in the Commonwealth, passed the House on a vote of 155-0 on March 11. The bill is a redrafted and expanded version of legislation previously filed by Governor Charlie Baker to protect employers from a 60% unemployment insurance (UI) rate increase scheduled to take effect in April. Representative Howitt said House Bill 89 will freeze the UI rate schedule for business owners for two years and waive state taxes on forgiven Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans. It will also provide employees with access to COVID-related emergency paid sick leave and give a tax credit to unemployed individuals with household incomes of 200% below the federal poverty level.
The House’s action comes just one week after Representative Howitt and several dozen other legislators wrote to House and Senate leadership on March 4 urging the adoption of a UI rate freeze, along with a state tax waiver for PPP loans. House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. and Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr initiated the two letters, which drew bipartisan support from both the House and Senate, with 49 legislators signing on to the UI letter and 55 to the PPP letter. By freezing the experience rate for employers at Schedule “E” for calendar years 2021 and 2022, House Bill 89 ensures that employers who paid an average of $539 per worker in UI taxes last year will not see those rates jump to $858 per worker in 2021. The bill also authorizes up to $7 billion in borrowing to repay federal UI loans and a temporary, two-year employer assessment to ensure the state’s Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund remains solvent. To help Massachusetts businesses avoid further financial hardship, House Bill 89 also waives state taxes on forgiven federal PPP loans. Current Massachusetts tax laws conform with the federal tax code by exempting corporations from paying a tax on their PPP loans, but do not provide the same protections to so-called “pass-through” business entities. Without this change, Representative Howitt noted, many independent contractors, restaurants and small businesses would collectively be facing an estimated $150 million in state taxes on their PPP loans. Under House Bill 89, unemployed workers with household incomes below 200% of the poverty level – or about $25,000 for individuals and $53,000 for a family of four – would be eligible for a tax credit for 2020 and 2021 equal to 5% of the unemployment compensation received by the taxpayer and included in their gross income for the taxable year. During floor debate, an amendment was adopted to include compensation received under the federal Lost Wages Assistance program funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency in the definition of what constitutes “unemployment compensation”. House Bill 89 provides additional relief by prohibiting any tax penalties from being imposed by the Department of Revenue for the 2020 taxable year solely for failure to remit taxes on unemployment compensation received last year. Taxpayers who have already been assessed the penalty will receive an abatement. Representative Howitt said House Bill 89 also requires large employers to provide emergency paid sick time to employees who are unable to work due to the coronavirus, including those who are self-isolating; receiving medical treatment or an immunization; recovering from a disability due to COVID-19; complying with a quarantine order; caring for a family member including a domestic partner; or are unable to telework due to COVID-19. This provision will apply to businesses with 500 or more employees, as those individuals working for companies with fewer than 500 employees are already covered under the federal coronavirus sick leave program. Employees working 40 or more hours per week will be provided with 40 hours of COVID-19 emergency paid sick leave, while those working a regular weekly schedule but fewer than 40 hours will be eligible for the equivalent of the average number of hours they work per week over a 14-day period. Those individuals whose work schedule varies from week to week would be eligible for emergency sick leave equal to the average number of hours they worked per week over the six-month period immediately preceding their sick leave. The bill also establishes a COVID-19 Emergency Paid Sick Leave Fund, which will be administered by the Executive Office for Administration and Finance and used to reimburse eligible employers for providing emergency paid sick leave. The maximum reimbursement amount allowed is $850 a week. In addition, House Bill 89 requires the Department of Family and Medical Leave to analyze the possibility of expanding the state’s family and medical leave program to provide coverage for future communicable illnesses related to a public health emergency, with a report due by December 31, 2022. During floor debate, the House adopted an amendment creating a special commission to study and develop recommendations on the long-term solvency of the Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund, with a report due by December 15, 2021.
April 2021 The Reporter
CLASSIFIEDS HELP WANTED
Seekonk Flea Market. Buyers and Vendors wanted every Sunday 7AM-1PM March 28th thru December 5th 2021. Call Linda at 401-263-5737. Dairy Farm in Swansea looking for part-time help with milking and farm chores. Call 508-669-5046. Handyman helper needed for small odd jobs. Someone I can count on when I need things done. This is for someone who needs the extra income and available during the day - more like a retired person who has the time. Call Ana at 401-431-0306. HELP WANTED for Farm Work - Looking for someone to milk cows and to do barn work - Part time. Call John at (508) 336-5796. BUS DRIVERS: Barrington Public Schools is accepting applications for School Bus Driver Substitute positions. The hourly rate is $20.02. Applicants must hold a CDL license and a School Bus Certificate. Please email gladneyn@barringtonschools.org to obtain an application or call 401-245-5000. Barrington Public Schools is accepting applications for morning or afternoon bus monitors. Please apply in person at the Barrington Public Schools, 283 County Road, Barrington, RI 02806. Candidate must be able to assist with the loading and unloading of students, following district protocol, adhere to confidentiality, and must be able to pass a physical dexterity test. The hourly rate will be $12.25. Barrington Public Schools is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
FREE STUFF
FREE SCRAP REMOVAL: all appliances, fridges, washers/ dryers, A/Cs, etc. Call/text 401-368-3706 or email scrapabilities@ outlook.com. Free. 1985 24ft RV. Doesn't run. Use for scrap metal & scrap copper. Call Wendy in Rehoboth. 508-730-9317.
PARTY RENTALS
PARTY RENTAL SERVICES: Moonwalks for sale or rent for $125 per weekend. 20x30 Tent package includes tables & chairs $350. 20x20 Tent package includes tables & chairs $250. Setup included. Free Rehoboth deliveries. Call early for reservation. Dan 401-255-1072.
Place Classified ads at www.ReporterToday.com WANTED
Civil War, WW1, WW2, Anything to do with military; helmets, knives, uniforms, guns, HAVE (license), anything related to wartime, will pay cash for items, ask for Charles, call 508-2306444; call anytime thanks I buy Old cars, Motorcycle, Bicycles, Scooter and other wheeled vehicle and parts. One piece or a collection. Thank you Joe in Rehoboth 508-558-5129.
HOME & GARDEN
Plants for Sale: Beautiful plants for birthdays, and every special occasion. Inside and outside; hanging plants, perennials, annuals, herbs, bushes, coleus, ground cover, hostas, angel trumpets, begonias, citronella plants & forsythia. Extra large pots available. Everything from $3 to $10. Call 401-433-2922 for an appointment to see my plants in glass containers and unique pots. Free small plant with visit.
GENERAL SERVICES
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 508-840-6611. I am a Personal Care Assistant & Housekeeper willing to help you! Will perform many duties including meal prep, medication reminders, shower assistance, shopping/errands, laundry, light cleaning. Call Terri for information and rates. 774-284-7600. 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. Call Tony 508-226-1295; www.BigBlueRemoval.com.
FREE ESTIMATES
FOR SALE
Horse For Sale: 16 year old Chestnut Quarter Horse Gelding with white blaze, up to date on shots. Call Terri at 774-284-7600. For Sale: Handmade Nautical wreaths for sale. Visit www. SabinPointDesign.com. Kenmore Sewing Machine with case (non-digital): $500. Call 401-438-5150. Cabinet Maker & Carpentry Tools (antique & used) for sale, due to retirement & other things. Call Jaime Simas from 8am to 6pm at 508-336-8432 or 401-480-0374. Vermont Castings Resolute Wood Stove: Very good condition. Automatic damper. Double-walled. Switching to propane fire log. $450. Please call Don at 774-226-6126.
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RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL SUPERVISED BY OWNER
OFFICE (508) 223-0577
68
The Reporter April 2021
Business CATEGORY
COMPANY NAME
PAGE
CATEGORY
COMPANY NAME
PAGE
Apparel
Nellie’s Fashion Trends
15
Electrician
Bleau Electric
35
Art Supplies/Framing
Gregory D. Dorrance, Co.
50
Electrician
Greaves Electric
20
Attorney
Laurie P. Mullen, Attorney
30
Electrician
Neal Bellavance Electric
40
Attorney
Law Office of Luke P. Travis
42
Farm
Souza Family Farm
11
Auto Body
A-1 Custom Auto Body
47
Farm Supplies
Spring Garden Farm
34
Auto Body
Seekonk Auto Body
49
Feed & Garden Store
Bay State Pet & Garden Supply
9
Auto Body
Sousa’s Auto Body
32
Fence Installation
Fence Tech
30
Auto Body
Tri Star Autobody
20
Financial Advisor
Oasis Financial Services
22
Auto Parts
NorthEastern Auto Supply
30
Firewood
Seekonk Tree Service
37
Auto Repairs
New England Tire
3
Flooring - All Types
Earle Dias Interiors
49
Building Contractor
A.M. Carpentry
60
Flooring - Wood
David J. Ledoux Hardwood Floors
31
Candidate - Rehoboth Katie Ferreira-Aubin
16
Floral Design
Designs By Sheila
25
Candidate - Rehoboth Kelly Hathaway
11
Food Service
The Cooks House
17
Candidate - Rehoboth Kelly Hathaway
13
Fuel - Oil
Al’s Quality Oil Co.
47
Candidate - Rehoboth Laura Schwall
15
Fuel - Oil
COD OIL
27
Candidate - Rehoboth Laura Schwall
19
Fuel - Oil
E & V Oil Co.
72
Candidate - Rehoboth Michael Deignan, Candidate
12
Fuel - Propane
Dupuis Oil
58
Candidate - Seekonk
David Viera
28
Funeral Home
Hathaway Funeral Home
63
Candidate - Seekonk
Nelson Almeida
29
Funeral Home
J.H. Williams & Co. Funeral Home
64
Carpet Cleaning
Earle’s Carpet Cleaning
54
Funeral Home
William W. Tripp Funeral Home
62
Carpet Cleaning
M & S Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning 50
Garden Center
Little Tree Nursery
38
Child Care
Twin Oaks Farm Learning Center
46
Gift Shop
Casa Ideal
48
Chimney Cleaning
RD Chimney Sweep
32
Handyman
American Eagle Enterprises, LLC
39
Chimney Services
Kenny’s Masonry & Chimney Sweep 35
Health & Wellness
CBD ReLeaf Center Rehoboth
26
Cleaning Service
Debbie’s Cleaning Service
39
Health Care
Community VNA
61
Cleaning Service
VIP Cleaning Service
45
Heating & Air
Taylor Heating and Air Conditioning 40
Collectibles
Wexler’s Collectibles
51
Hospital
Sturdy Memorial Hospital
7
Country Club
Hillside Country Club
8
Insurance Agency
Durand Insurance Agency
63
Country Club
Ledgemont Country Club
2
Insurance Agency
Frazao Insurance
17
Dentist
David C. Zaluski, D.D.S.
58
Insurance Agency
Smith Insurance
59
Dentist
Dr. Wassouf D.D.S.
41
Jewelers
Plante Jewelers
27
Dentist
George Family Orthodontics
6
Jewelers
Tiverton Four Corners
25
Dentist
Lisa Daft DMD & Associates, PC
14
Junk Removal
AOL Enterprises
33
Dentist
Seekonk Dental
18
Kitchen/Bath Design
Infinity Kitchens
10
Title 5 Inspection
$25
• Voluntary Assessments * Not affiliated & Consulting Discount with any on Title V • Septic Systems septic system installation or Inspection • Cesspools pumping co.
Professional Inspection Services - Est.1995 -
Call Steven Drew • 508-667-4025 MassDEP Approved Title 5 Inspector
No Mess! We Hand-Dig
Commercial & Residential
Year-Round Service
April 2021 The Reporter
69
Directory CATEGORY
COMPANY NAME
PAGE
CATEGORY
COMPANY NAME
PAGE
Landscape Service
Green Care Landscaping
72
Real Estate
Vicki Doran
35
Landscape Service
Holden’s Landscaping
39
Remodeling
Batty Construction
51
Landscape Service
Kimmell Landscaping
48
Rental Stores
Taunton Rental
46
Landscape Service
Ouellette Landscaping
38
Restaurant
Boneyard Barbecue & Saloon
57
Landscape Service
Superior Lawn Care
37
Restaurant
Country Kitchen
56
Landscape Service
T-Scape Inc
36
Restaurant
El Mariachi
57
Landscape Service
T. Moreshead Landscaping
43
Restaurant
EP Wieners
57
Landscape Service
Welshman Landscaping & Constr.
39
Restaurant
K.P. Grill
57
Local Organization
Rehoboth Bluebird Society
25
Restaurant
La Collina
56
Log Homes
Cedar Hill Log Homes
36
Restaurant
Madeira Restaurant
57
Marble Fabricators
Star Marble & Granite
40
Roofing Contractor
B & R Fournier Construction, Inc.
39
Martial Arts
Lima’s Tae Kwon-Do Karate
45
Roofing Contractor
Tabeleys Roofing
50
Masonry-Construction StoneScapes - Mark Carvalho
69
RVs and Campers
Camping World of Berkley
71
Masonry-Construction Valter Rego Masonry
38
Seafood Market
Digger’s Catch
22
Masonry-Construction Welshman Landscaping & Constr.
39
Security Systems
Home & Commercial Security
53
Masonry-Construction William Gallant, Jr. Masonry Services 43
Septic Inspections
Pro Inspection Services
68
Mosquito & Tick Control ohDEER
36
Septic Systems
Bay State Sewage
44
Orthodontics
George Family Orthodontics
6
Septic Systems
Croome Sanitation, Inc.
55
Painting Contractor
Advantage Painting
33
Septic Systems
Soares Sanitation Pumping, Inc.
61
Painting Contractor
Cronan Painting
44
Septic Systems
Town Sanitation
51
Painting Contractor
EZ Painting
68
Solar Energy
US SolarWorks
16
Painting Contractor
Iachetti Painting Company
61
Stove Shop
Fireplace Showcase
55
Painting Contractor
Lundco Painting LLC.
12
Stump Grinding
Heritage Tree & Arborist Services
34
Painting Contractor
Val Arruda & Son Painting, Inc.
42
Tanning Salons
SunSational Tanning
52
Party Rentals
Party Rental Services
24
Tax Preparation
New England Tax Service, Inc.
31
Paving Contractor
All Phase Asphalt Driveways
59
Trash Removal
WasteTech Disposal, Inc.
26
Paving Contractor
Custom Paving Company
37
Trash/Junk Removal
Big Blue Removal Service
31
Paving Contractor
Gem Paving & Seal Coating
32
Tree Service
Carlson Tree Service
22
Paving Contractor
Mohegan Seal Coating Co
24
Tree Service
Choate Tree Service
60
Paving Contractor
Ryan Asphalt Paving
67
Tree Service
Heritage Tree & Arborist Services
34
Paving Contr - Masonry Blue Stone Driveways & Masonry
33
Tree Service
Seekonk Tree Service
39
Pest Control Services
Bi-State Pest Control
42
Water Treatment
Olde Colony Clean Water. Inc
10
Pest Control Services
Lincoln Pest & Property Solutions
8
Water Treatment
Water Filter Company, Inc.
21
Physical Therapy
Personal Best Physical Therapy
66
Wells & Sump Pumps
Vintage Plumbing & Heating
20
Plastering
East Coast Plastering
54
Plastering & Painting
David Laurino - Plastering
43
Plumbing & Heating
Sine Plumbing & Heating
52
Plumbing & Heating
Vintage Plumbing & Heating
20
Powerwashing
East Bay Pressure Wash Co LLC
24
Real Estate
Aubin Realty
23
Real Estate
Century 21 - David Smith
21
Real Estate
Heather Feid, Realtor
37
Real Estate
Heather Feid, Realtor
45
Real Estate
Home Smart Heritage Realty
38
Real Estate
Mateus Realty
70
Real Estate
Robert DaRocha, Realtor
72
Real Estate
TK Real Estate Brokerage
65
StoneScapes Specializing in all styles of stone masonry with over 35 years experience
• STONEWALLS • FIREPLACES • PATIOS • WALKWAYS Call for a free estimate
MARK CARVALHO • (774) 229-6360
www.stonescapes1.com
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The Reporter April 2021
! ! K
OO
L
FOR SALE
SO
A message from...
LD
MATEUS Realty
We Need Listings!
A SIGN OF SUCCESS AND A NAME YOU CAN TRUST!!
Thinking about selling your property? Now Is The Best Time To Sell! • Low Inventory • Low Interest Rates • Several Buyers • Properties are Selling Over List Price! East Providence Single Family List Price: $219,900 East Providence Single Family List Price: $259,900 East Providence Single Family List Price: $229,900 East Providence Two Family List Price: $309,900 Pawtucket Single Family List Price: $289,900 Pawtucket Two Family List Price: $269,900 Pawtucket Three Family List Price: $359,900 Cranston Four Family List Price: $349,900 Cranston Single Family List Price: $289,900 East Greenwich Single Family List Price: $379,900 West Warwick Single Family List Price: $239,900
Sold Price: $231,000 Sold Price: $270,000 Sold Price: $255,000 Sold Price: $335,000 Sold Price: $298,000 Sold Price: $285,000 Sold Price: $395,000 Sold Price: $365,000 Sold Price: $315,000 Sold Price: $396,000 Sold Price: $249,000
Sold in 6 Days! Sold in 2 Days! Sold in 7 Days! Soldin10Days! Sold in 6 Days! Sold in 4 Days! Sold in 8 Days! Soldin10Days! Sold in 4 Days! Sold in 8 Days! Sold in 2 Days!
Free Market Analysis
Serving East Providence and surrounding areas since 1975. (401) 434-8399 FALAMOS PORTUGUES • FAX # (401) 435-3401 582 Warren Avenue • East Providence, RI 02914
Email sales@mateusrealty.net • MateusRealty.net
April 2021 The Reporter
4-WEEK LONG CELEBRATION APRIL 12 - MAY 9
FIND RVS ENDING IN
RV ESSENTIALS *
^
137 Myricks St. in BERKLEY, MA | 877.499.9710 | CampingWorldofBerkley.com *(SKU 81386) Sale price $8.47, Regular $18.99. See associate for details. ^Camping World RV Sales prices not inclusive of tax, title, license, prep, freight and dealer doc fees. Advertised inventory available at time of production. May not be combined with any other offer and not applicable to prior sales. See dealer for full details. © 2021 FreedomRoads, LLC. The CAMPING WORLD logo is a registered trademark of CWI, Inc. and used with permission. Unauthorized use of any of CWI, Inc.’s trademarks is expressly prohibited. All rights reserved. Offers expire 5/9/2021. BOS37596-0321
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The Reporter April 2021
The Reporter P.O. Box 170 Rehoboth, MA 02769
24 HOURS
7 D AY S A W E E K
“Ever y Day is Monday ”
Call us today. * FULL SERVICE * Premium heating oil
EFFICIENCY & VALUE Serving the East Bay for over 40 years
PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID ATTLEBORO, MA PERMIT NO. PI 228
508-336-8851 / 800-515-8003
2500 GAR HIGHWAY, SWANSEA MA MASTER MA RI LICENSED
www.evoilco.com
GreenCare Landscaping,
Inc.
227 Plain St, Route 118 Rehoboth, MA greencarema@gmail.com www.GreenCareMa.com
Grounds Care & Lawn Care Seasonal Packages
FREE SOIL TEST With Our Seasonal Grounds Care Package (Cleanups, Lawn Cuttings, Trimming Shrubs, etc Included) Monthly Installments. No Surprises!
LANDSCAPE PLANTINGS & DESIGN HARDSCAPING (WALLS, PATIOS & WALKWAYS) IRRIGATION, HYDRO-SEEDING & MORE!
Inquire about Our Consultation & Design Services
ABR, SFR, SRES Licensed in RI & MA bobrealtor7@gmail.com Eu Falo Portugues
Find Out The Current Value of your Home!
Office: 508-252-6952 Cell: 774-451-4603
(508) 252-6912
“Planting Today for a Better Tomorrow!”
Bob DaRocha, REALTOR
We will make it easier for you with over 30 years of experience and knowledge in Landscaping and Plants
www.BobRealtor.com