April 2023 Rehoboth Reporter

Photo Courtesy of Techo-Bloc

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!

A Letter of support for the 35’ Wetlands Buffer Zone By-Law

I am writing to encourage you to support the proposal to establish a 35’ wetlands preservation zone via a new by-law. A 35’ Wetlands Buffer Zone will further protect our water supply, prevent flooding issues and safeguard habitat for the flora and fauna of our wetlands. The Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act offers limited protection so it is up to each town to enact their own wetlands by-laws to gain greater protection. A minimum of 35’ is necessary for enough distance from a construction project to allow filtration of water moving through wetlands.

We will have an opportunity to vote for this by-law at the May 9th Town Meeting. The attached flow-chart will help you understand the process that would be required for new construction in Rehoboth if we had this by-law in place.

To learn more about the proposed by-law, one last informational meeting with a round table discussion will be held on Wednesday, April 19, at 7 pm in Goff Hall. Please attend, bring your friends, and ask lots of questions! -Carol Entin

Regarding the proposed 35-foot Wetland Preservation Zone By-law

A vote will be held at the May 9 Town Meeting.

If you drive around town these days, you can’t help but notice that the rural character of our town is rapidly changing. New developments are springing up left and right, replacing pastures, farm lands and wooded areas.

Are you concerned about how all this new construction could affect the quality of your drinking water?

After heavy rains, does your property flood more often than it used to?

The majority of towns in Massachusetts require 35-foot buffer zones to protect their wetlands. Rehoboth is one of the very few that does not.

Please vote YES at Town Meeting on May 9 to create strong 35-foot buffer zones around our wetlands and help keep Rehoboth’s drinking water clean!

How will passage of this by-law affect you?

This proposed by-law will apply to FUTURE CONSTRUCTION ONLY. If you currently own a home or farm, a YES vote will not require you to change a thing. You will not have to modify your existing buffer zones, if any, no matter what size they are now. However — the 35-foot buffer zone requirement will apply to that new housing development that could be built next door to you at some future point in time.

For more information, please contact the Friends of the Palmer River: palmerriverfriends@gmail.com

Thank you, Connie Grab-Rehoboth, MA

On the Cover:

Daffodils are back in town!

Photo by Earle Dias Earle Dias Photography

The Rehoboth/Seekonk

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Proposal to Adopt a Wetlands Protection Zone

I would like to encourage citizens to come to the meeting on May 9th to vote on the warrant articles.

I think that it is important to vote YES to adopt a 35-foot Preservation Zone around wetlands. As we all have noticed, there has been a large increase in development in Rehoboth, especially large subdivisions. Some are in established watershed areas.

Our groundwater is precious as you all know, since we depend on it for clean and sufficient supply of well water. By having a 35-foot protection zone around wetlands, this would help to limit the impact of fertilizers and pesticides flowing into the wetlands. It would also help to control erosion and sedimentation from any building projects flowing into those areas. There are 212 communities out of 351 in Massachusetts with conservation ordinances or bylaws stricter than those provided under the state’s Wetland Protection Act. Rehoboth presently has none. It is time for our town to look to the future and give further protection to our wetlands now.

Joan Caouette

Support Wetlands Preservation Zone By-Law Town Meeting, May 9th, 2023

On Monday Evening, May 9th, we have the opportunity to vote to support the Wetlands Preservation Zone By-Law. This by-law will provide a 35 ft. zone of protection for wetland in Rehoboth and will help preserve and protect remaining wetlands so necessary for the health of our Community.

Protecting existing wetland helps recharge and clean our water supply, helps reduce flood risks, provides habitat for fish and wildlife, and supports our agricultural community in providing a sustainable water supply for plant and animal life.

A Yes vote for this by-law will effect only new construction going forward. Existing structures are “grandfathered” meaning they will not be considered in violation of the by-law. Please come to Town Meeting on Monday, May 9th and cast your vote in support of sustaining and supporting our wetlands for the benefit of our whole Community.

Thank you,

Libby O’Neal-Rehoboth, MA

School Meals for All - An Act Relative To Universal School Meals (HD766 / SD1013)

By Ensuring All Students Have Access to School Meals At No Cost, More Children Could Receive The Nutrition They Need At School — Helping Them To Thrive.

Families with kids across Massachusetts are struggling to keep food on the table as inflation and food costs remain high. During this time of continued economic uncertainty, the School Meals for All program, has been a lifeline for families. It is because of School Meals for All that an additional 80,000 kids are eating lunch at school every day. But the State legislature is currently deciding whether to make the program permanent.

Currently, 1 in 5 households with children in Massachusetts face food insecurity. Research shows when a child is well fed, they perform better in school, are at lower risk for obesity, and adjust to social situations better. Additionally, by making meal access universal, we help remove stigma around economic status and family situation—creating a more equitable and just educational environment.

School meals can account for over half of a child’s daily calories. These are children who might not otherwise have reliable access to healthy food at home.

This policy would allow every student who wants or needs a school breakfast or lunch to receive meals at no cost to their family. The cost would be covered by the existing National School Lunch Program federal reimbursement combined with a supplemental state reimbursement.

Over 1 in 4 food insecure children live in households that do not qualify for free or reduced-price meals. The high cost of living in Massachusetts leaves many families in a precarious state: they earn too much to receive federal assistance from programs such as SNAP, but too little to eat full and healthy diets.

Healthy school meals for all would ensure that at least school-aged children can rely on school meals.

The Letters to the Editor 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 points of view.

Get Involved- please email Bristol County Senators’ Feeney, paul.feeney@masenate. gov and Timilty, James.Timilty@masenate.gov and Representative Howitt Steven.Howitt@ mahouse.gov

Show your support for their YES vote on this Bill. Otherwise, free meals for students will expire after June 2023.

Thank you- Lisa Sirois

35 Foot Preservation Zone By law

I would like to address two well written articles in the February issue of the Reporter

by Katy Rouke

and Lisa Sirois. They along with other Rehoboth citizens have submitted a citizens bylaw for the May Annual Town Meeting. The importance of passing this Bylaw cannot be overstated. Wetlands are natural sponges, absorbing rainfall, slowly releasing the water into our streams and aquifers. This sponge action also slows the effects of flooding during periods of torrential rainfall.

As Ms. Rourke points out, this is crucial to our local farms, helping to ensure sufficient water

in the ponds and streams when irrigation is necessary during dry periods, which are happening more frequently due to climate change. As Ms Sirois points out, the wetlands, by absorbing the water during heavy periods of rain lessens the possibility of flooding.

The Massachusetts Wetland Protection Act (WPA) although a very good law, allows work in the 100 foot buffer zone right up to the wetland edge. Protecting the wetlands any further is up to the individual towns through bylaws. Why allowing work up to the wetland edge is a problem is because the increased sunlight can dry out and change the plant species along the edge. this lessons the benefits of the wetlands. There is also an increased chance altering the wetlands through siltation. The major reason for working up to the wetland edge is to have a large lawn. This increases the chances of pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers having a negative impact to the abutting wetlands. A no touch or disturb zone filters out the fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides before they reach the wetlands.

As Ms. Sirois points out, many of the surrounding towns now recognize the need to protect the wetlands, enacting no touch, disturb or wetland preservation zones of their own.

An important note; I am the Chairman of the Rehoboth Conservation Commission, however, the final Warrant Article has not been shown to the Commission yet, so the members have not voted to endorse or not endorse the Article. The above article is my opinion only as a person who was appointed to the Commission in 2000 and has seen first hand what happens to unprotected wetlands.

Again, I cannot overstate the importance of passing this Bylaw/ Sincerely,

Robert Materne

Wetland Preservation Zone By-Law

A citizen’s petition for a wetland preservation zone by-law was submitted to the Board of Selectmen for a vote at the May 9 Annual town Meeting.

The state’s Wetland Preservation Act only requires activity to be buffered within 100-ft of a wetland. It is left up to local municipalities to define any activity within the 100 ft of wetland resource areas. Rehoboth doesn’t have any added protections in place for these vital water resource areas in stark contrast from our neighboring cities and towns:

Attleboro with a 25-foot no disturb zone, Foxboro with a 25-foot no activity zone, Mansfield with a 25-foot no disturb zone, Norfolk with a 50-foot no disturb zone, Plainville with a 35-foot no disturb zone, Seekonk with a 25-foot no disturb zone and Wrentham with a 50-foot no work zone. (https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/ local_news/9.25.21)

Join us on Monday, April 19 at 6:00 pm for a presentation and discussion at the Goff Hall Blanding library to share ideas, ask questions and raise concerns. Help consider ways that we can ensure sustainable growth AND protect clean water for our town.

Your vote counts at the May 9 Annual Meeting!

Thank you, Lisa Sirois

Sandra (Rourke) & Ernie (Carl) Boren’s

Cassie Krasnianski Cathy Edington Joy Cambria Kori Valente

Marilyn Stephens Ron Rupp

Sarah Dumke Tom Douglass Wilson Valente Carl Boren

Sandra Boren Ernie Boren

GOT BAD WELL WATER?

Thank You for Your Support

As a first-time political candidate, I want to express my gratitude for the incredible support and encouragement you all provided throughout my campaign. Running for this position has been a tremendous honor, and I am forever grateful for the opportunity to have met so many amazing individuals. I have learned a great deal and feel a deeper connection to our community as a result.

Although we fell short by just 5% of the votes, I am immensely proud of the positive and constructive campaign we ran. I am humbled by the overwhelming support we received from the community and feel privileged to have had the opportunity to work with such a passionate, diverse, and dedicated group of people.

While the outcome may not have been what we hoped for, I am confident that we have laid the groundwork for future campaigns. With your continued support and dedication, we can make a positive difference in our community. Moving forward, I plan to continue volunteering and advocating for children’s education and welfare in our town, and I invite you to join me.

Rehoboth has a fantastic PTSA with many great dedicated people, but we need more parents to get involved and help maintain the organization. If you are a parent of a child with special needs, please consider joining the SEPAC. It is an excellent resource to learn and connect with other parents for advice and guidance. School Councils based at each of the school buildings provide an opportunity for parents to work with teachers and the principles in shaping the policies and programs of the schools.

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Lastly, I encourage everyone to become more involved in town politics. It is not as intimidating as it may seem, and these people are our neighbors, friends, and even family. While we may not always agree, we are all part of the same community, and together we can make it better.

Once again, thank you for your unwavering support and encouragement. I am grateful for each and every one of you, and I am excited to continue working together to improve our community.

Robert Owens

Is Anyone Listening?

At the Selectmen’s Meeting of March 15th, there was scheduled to be a joint meeting with the School Committee to hear the 20232024 Budget Presentation for the district.

Two members of the School Committee were present, not a quorum for their portion of the joint session. The presentation went along as planned and was repeated at the School Committee Public Hearing of Monday, March 13, 2023.

While the largest increase to the school Budget has been acknowledged to be Special Education, it is important to realize that the SPED increase has been mandated by the Commonwealth according to the School Committee. There is an increase of 10% for Educational Collaborative Tuitions and 14% for MA Non-Public & Out-of-State Tuitions.

School Officials acknowledge these increases are not sustainable and there are behind the scenes (lobbyists) working the legislature to cap these increases but so far no good news on that front. The result is we are responsible. We are meaning the entire Town of Seekonk.

The School Committee says that 31% of their operating budget is dedicated to Special Education.

When all is said and done, the Town Administrator has advised with the number the

district is asking for, the Town is left to find an estimate of $720,000 to balance the budget before Town Meeting though we have not heard the complete municipal side of the budget as of this writing.

If there is a shortage to be absorbed, it should be shared. The amount no matter what it is should not be carried by town services alone.

School Administration will tell you they are “only” asking for 2.98% for local aid and that may be true, however, the entire budget package of $30 million plus is 4.06%. That is the asking price tag you will hear at town meeting. Nothing less.

Further, when School Administration can afford to shift money to pay for capital items from their operating budget something is off. It sends the message that the original appropriation for operating the School District was over calculated.

As an example, In the FY2022 budget $178,246 was spent from the operating budget we approved at Town Meeting, at the High School’s newly created Transitions Academy. It was labeled as “shortfall” and *unbudgeted repairs”. They also spent $64,429 on the Turf Field project for a storage shed/concrete slab, electrician and tree removal. Next question, didn’t the Selectmen also give $113,000+ from town resources to finish the project? What was the amount the town approved for that project?

The bigger question is “where was this money appropriated at the beginning of FY2022” There must have been a need for it somewhere else if they asked for it.

Utilizing operating money to pay for capital expenses is a slippery slope and should not happen. The proper action would have been to warrant town meeting for approval to spend from resources available. Not the operating budget where annual increases are calculated. Capital money is not to be utilized to calculate a budget increase. What is worst, the townspeople do not know it unless the information is asked for annually by a resident.

The practice of spending operating money on capital items may not be confined to just this School Administration but it effects the way business is conducted within our government and it has to stop. The cost of Education does not need to drain Town resources in order to obtain better grades from students. A lot of Alumni from the Seekonk School’s have gone on to very successful business careers and it was done with a lot less.

A suggestion to Administrators is to protect the 31% for SPED. Look within the 69% remaining to make even the smallest of cuts because they add up. Offer something. Do not do nothing!

If they must work a fiscal year without colored pamphlets and super charged mailings than communicate to parents electronically. Save on paper. Post news in the newspaper. If they have to work with fewer new pens, save on supplies. If the Town is required to reduce clerical service than maybe School Administration should as well. Reduce a position within the clerical service in the Business Office.

If this Town has to tread water and wait for lobbyists to do our bidding with the capping of costs of SPED through legislature we are a sinking ship.

No matter what some will say, we are not a city. We are the Town of Seekonk and until that changes we need to speak out about the rising costs put on the backs of our residents. Stop pushing people out of their homes because of affordability to live here.

Here’s hoping for the best for FY23-24.

Doreen Taylor Seekonk Warrior Class of 1977 and proud of it.

Seekonk Needs a Well-Functioning Parks & Rec Committee

DR. FRANK CASARELLA & DR. LURI LEE

My name is Joshua Troiano and I am a member of the Seekonk Parks and Recreation committee. I was appointed by the board of selectmen in the summer of 2021 and since then, have had the privilege to serve on the committee.

With almost two years under my belt, I have been able to learn more, and likewise see what needs to be changed in order to have an effective town government. Specifically, to have a well-functioning Parks & Rec committee, there needs to be support from the board of selectmen and town administrator, among other things.

When thinking of how to maximize the productivity of the committee, it’s important that the Parks & Rec director is a full-time position. Unfortunately, the position has been reduced to 19.5 hours

per week. This has severely handicapped the committee’s ability to work, because if the director happens to not have enough hours to complete important work, it can not get done. Thus, we can only fully execute our job as members if our director happens to have enough hours left to work that week. If not, it has to be pushed into the next week, thus delaying the work and creating a slow, dysfunctional department.

Secondly, there should be more communication coming down from the board of selectmen and town administrator. Many times it appears that important things that pertain to the committee are changed, and are not communicated down to members of the committee. For example, members were surprised to find out, from a private citizen, that the Parks & Rec committee is no longer running the popular Summer camp that is annually run. Sadly, this was not communicated from those who made the decision. Now, there may not be a summer camp.

Lastly, much of the department’s minuscule budget goes to seeding, leaving minimal funds to assist leagues and fund critical projects. A common-sense, fiscally responsible increase in our operating budget would enhance our ability to do our job we were appointed for, not leave us in a futile state. There is much work to do, it’s just a matter of having the resources to fully maximize our potential.

After town meeting voted to purchase the Medeiros Family Farm property, there will be a future need to successfully develop the land to maximize its use. Additionally, there is a wide range of needs at different recreational fields and courts where renovation and construction are needed.

Therefore, in order to have a quality Parks & Rec Committee, there needs to be a full-time Parks & Rec Director, more communication from those at the head of town government, and a fair budget for the department that enables us to fulfill our mission statement.

If you are interested in attending a meeting, the times and dates are posted on the town website and the meeting minutes are as well. Additionally, there will be a revamp of our social media in the coming future to help us effectively communicate information out to the public. I look forward to assisting in the improvement and further development of recreation in town, working with league presidents, concerned citizens, and all residents of the town of Seekonk.

Thank you for taking the time to read this letter!

God bless,

Joshua Troiano

Rabies Clinic Thank You

Thank you to everyone involved that helped make this event possible! Well organized event and very efficient process conducted. Great collaboration by the Town of Rehoboth and Town of Seekonk on a much-needed initiative. Keep up the strong work!

Paul W. Jacques

Thank You for Your Support

I wanted to take a moment to thank everyone for their support throughout this year’s election. I met many great people along the way, and while going door to door got an opportunity to share with you your families stories and beliefs. I was humbled by the amount of people that turned out for this year’s election, and all of the kind words shared with me at our tent on election day, as well as all of the positive messages sent throughout the campaign. Once again, I truly appreciate all of your support, and I look forward to being of service to the town of Seekonk.

Respectfully,

Kyle Juckett

Dear Seekonk Residents,

Thank you. Thank you for coming out to vote. The number of voters that came out for this election was the highest I can remember. Over 2100 of Seekonk registered voters came and exercised their rights and told Seekonk who they wanted for the positions.

You also let the town and government know your opinion concerning our form of government, the question to change our form of government was defeated.

I’d also like to Thank You for your trust in electing me to the position of a Board of Selectmen. We are here to represent you and we need to hear how you feel and what you think is best for the town. You can do this by coming to a Selectmen’s meeting, Town meeting, e-mail to the Town Administrators office or a letter to the Board. I can’t wait to hear from you.

Thank you again for this vote of confidence and I will not disappoint.

Michelle A. Hines

Included in picture, from left, are Rehoboth Town Clerk Laura Shwall, Kerrie Perkins - Assistant Town Clerk (Rehoboth), Jennifer HoseAdministrative Assistant to the Town Clerk (Rehoboth), and Carolina our dog. We attended the one stop shop event for rabies shot and dog license renewal.

From the Clerk

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, held a joint Rabies Clinic with the Town of Seekonk and processed hundreds of voteby-mail/absentee ballots along with certifying numerous birth/marriage/death records. Speaking of death records, unfortunately in March we lost two of our election workers, Lorraine Botts and Carol LeBaron; two lovely ladies who will be truly missed. Thank you both

for your service to the town and our voters. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families during this difficult time.

As you know, in March we also are preparing for the April 4th Annual Town Election, working on the Town Clerk’s portion of the 2022 Annual Report and completing the Town Clerk’s fiscal year 2024 budgets.

Laura Schwall

Annual Town Election

Thank you, Rehoboth Reporter, for extending the deadline to submit my article so we can include the results of the April 4, 2023 “unofficial” Annual Town Election results. Please find the “unofficial” results for the April 4, 2023 Annual Town Election on page 17. Thank you, Rehoboth voters, for voting and congratulations to all candidates who participated in Rehoboth’s 2023Annual Town Election.

Elected and Appointed Town Officials

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

2023 Dog Licenses are Now Past Due

2023 Dog licenses were due April 1, 2023. You may purchase your dog’s license through Rehoboth’s new online permitting website at –click on Online Permitting under the Citizen Action Center and choose Dog Licenses “Renewal” or “New” Dog to start the process. You can also use the direct link to renew your dog’s license @: https://permiteyes.us/rehoboth/publichome.php.

If you prefer, you may drop off your application and payment in the gray drop box at town hall (340 Anawan Street), or by mail (if paying by mail or drop off, checks should be made payable to the “Town of Rehoboth”). The licensing fees are as follows: Male or female dog $20.00; spayed or neutered dogs $10.00. Whether renewing online, via mail, or in person, dog license applications must be accompanied by a current year rabies certificate (with a vaccination date covering the current licensing year) and proof of spay

or neuter [if applying for the $10 licensing fee] unless we already have your documentation on file in the Clerk’s Office. If you are unsure, please give our office a call, and we can provide your dog’s licensing information.

Please renew your dog licenses as soon as possible to avoid late fees coming in June ~ thank you. To date we registered 1,237 dogs, 250 more than last year at this time. However, we still have over 1,000 to still 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 1,237 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

Another Successful Rehoboth-Seekonk Rabies Clinic. Thank You All!

Thank You Seekonk and Rehoboth Animal Control Officers for arranging the event, Seekonk Fire Department for the use of your beautiful facility and the Seekonk Town Clerk Staff for including Rehoboth in your Annual Rabies Clinic. Thank you also, Dr. Trusdale and staff along with all the Rehoboth volunteers and Seekonk Save-a-Pet volunteers who processed the rabies licenses. Even though it was a rainy Saturday, Rehoboth and Seekonk residents showed up with their pets to get them vaccinated. Rehoboth also registered 24 dogs; up 6 dogs from last year. We look forward to participating in the Rehoboth-Seekonk Joint Rabies Clinic again next year mid-March 2024.

Annual Town Meeting

Rehoboth voters are advised that the date for the Annual Town Meeting has been scheduled by the Board of Selectmen for Tuesday, May 9th, beginning at 7:00 p.m. The meeting will be held at the Francis Farm Community Complex – Museum Building – 27 Francis Farm Road. Town Meeting Warrants, after being approved and sent to the printer by the Board of Selectmen’s Office, should arrive in your mailbox, end of April, 2023. Last day to register to vote, in order to participate in the Annual Town Meeting, will be Saturday, April 29, 2023 from 8:00AM-5:00PM in the Town Clerk’s Office, 340 Anawan Street. Prospective voters are reminded that they may also register to vote online at www.RegisterToVoteMA. com, or by calling the Town Clerk’s Office to request a Mail-In voter registration form, or download a form @ http://www.sec.state.ma.us/ ele/elepdf/Voter-reg-mail-in.pdf

Annual Town Census Forms are Now Past Due

Our Annual Town Census Forms for 2023 were mailed to all households in Rehoboth during the first week of January. As of March 30th, we have a total of 1,300 households that still need to return their forms: Precinct 1 = 300 households in Precinct 2 = 268 households, 355 households in Precinct 3 and 377 households in Precinct 4. If you haven’t returned your 2023 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 4,280 households that have already returned their census forms or responded to our Registrar’s phone calls. Our Registrars have completed their calls to the residents reminding them to return their census forms. Thank

you, Registrars Jennifer Moitoso, Helene Vitale and Kathy Conti, along with Kerrie Perkins, Jennifer Hose and several election workers for your exceptional work with the 2023 Census process.

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

During the month of April, Kerrie, Jenn and I hope you have a wonderful Patriot’s Day, have a most enjoyable Easter, Passover, 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 1st, annual Excise Taxes were due April 1, 2023, yearly dog licenses were due April 1, 2023, and Annual Census forms were due January 31, 2023. I look forward to chatting with you again in May and hopefully seeing you at our upcoming Annual Town Meeting on Tuesday, May 9th We hope you all enjoy the beautiful spring weather.

Thank you, Laura

News from the Town Nurse

Hello to you all,

Welcome to Spring! And as we welcome Spring and, for many of us, trips through our gardens, I wanted to remind you all to take steps to avoid tick bites, as the ticks awake from their winter slumbers also! You’ll find some helpful information on protecting yourself and loved ones from tick and mosquito caused illnesses on the town website under the Public Health Nurse’s link @ https://www. rehobothma.gov/public-health-nurse

You will find our calendar of events there also.

For many, as Winter gives way to Spring, and we emerge from those short days of limited sunshine, into the longer days filled with sunshine our moods start to lift and our energy levels and our get up and go start to blossom. If your mood tends towards Seasonal Affective Disorder, and you note that your mood is not lifting as we transition to longer days of light and sunshine, please reach out to us, or go to the National Institute of Mental Health @ https://www.nimh.nih. gov/health/find-help for further supportive information.

Our children and grandchildren will have school vacations and will begin to participate in outdoor sports. Adults too will return to outdoor exercising; walking, running, biking

and other outdoor activities. So, a couple of things: protect you skin (use sunscreen, wear a hat and long sleeves when out in the sun) be careful on the roads when walking, running or biking (use bright colored and/or iridescent clothing, walk and run facing the traffic) and while driving, pay attention and share the road. Be especially careful and attentive when encountering children out on their bikes. They often have the webble wobbles when riding, particularly as they maneuver hills! Give them a wide berth, and as my granny used to say, if you see a ball rolling into the road, a child will likely be running after it! So, eyes forward, and stay off your phones! Your car could be a lethal weapon.

The Attleboro YMCA is hosting a Senior Healthy Living, Healthy Aging program on Thursday April 20th from 10am to 1pm. We have been invited to participate, so I’ll be setting up a booth there. I hope you’ll stop by to see us!

Until next month, be kind and be safe, stay healthy!

Rehoboth Animal Shelter News

The Rehoboth Animal Shelter is currently home to Mikey, an orange neutered male cat. Mikey is a very friendly boy. Although he came in as a stray, he has clearly been accustomed to people and was already neutered when found. He has now been vaccinated and combotested negative.

For more information about Mikey or to report a lost or found pet, please call the shelter at 508-252-5421 and leave a message. Information about our adoptable pets is also online at Petfinder.com.

The Rehoboth Police Department is Taking Back Unwanted

Prescription Drugs April 22nd, 2023

The Rehoboth Police Department will be taking part in the Drug Enforcement Agency’s 24th National Take Back Initiative. This event will take place on April 22nd, 2023. Since 2010, this initiative has resulted in over 1.6 million pounds of pharmaceutical waste collected over twenty-three drug take back events in New England. The collected medications will be disposed at several incineration facilities located throughout New England that will convert the pharmaceutical waste into clean renewable energy to be utilized by local communities. The Rehoboth Police Department has been participating in the National Take Back Initiative since 2019. In the four years that we have participated the Rehoboth Police Department has collected 446 pounds of pharmaceutical waste.

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

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

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

REHOBOTH EVENT IS BEING HELD AT THE POLICE DEPARTMENT 10am-2pm.

Rehoboth Memorial Day Parade MAY 29, 2023

I would like to thank you all who participated in last year’s Rehoboth Memorial Day Parade. The “Rehoboth” Memorial Day Parade will now be conducted “ annually” in the town of Rehoboth. If you haven’t participated in the past, the town of Rehoboth’s Veterans Office would love to have you in our Memorial Day Parade this May 29th 2020. Please call 508-252-4467 or e-mail Jake at

The Parade will start at 10:15 AM near the C.O.A. & American Legion on Bay State Road, travel through the village and end up at the Veterans’ Memorial Gazebo, Redway Plain. This year, you’ll see 68 new 3’x 5’ American Flags on the utility poles along the entire parade route from early May through late July. The Memorial Day Ceremony will commence at around 11:30 AM followed by dedication for all our Fallen Comrades who’ve given the ultimate sacrifice and for those who have fallen since last Memorial Day with a ceremony ending at noon with the lowering and raising of the American Flag.

Please respond to the Veterans Office if you’re interested in participating in this year’s Memorial Day Parade

Thank you!

Mikey

Debt Exclusion Rejected in Rehoboth

By Joe Siegel

Voters once again rejected a debt exclusion, which is a temporary tax increase, to pay for the town’s share of the $305 million Bristol-Plymouth Regional Technical School building project.

808 residents, representing 8 percent of the town’s 10,282 voters, cast ballots in Tuesday’s annual town election.

369 were in favor of the debt exclusion, with 408 in opposition.

“If you vote not to approve the debt exclusion, then there will be reductions,” Selectman Chair Skip Vadnais said on March 27. “They will be municipal and they will be educational.”

Selectman Michael Deignan explained the town would have to pay between $550,000 and $600,000 annually.

“There really is no way for us to absorb that in the town budget without making significant cuts to town services,” Deignan said in February. “We are obligated to pay that debt service to Bristol/ Plymouth. If we don’t pass (the debt exclusion), we’re going to be in a world of hurt financially.”

The building project was approved in March 2022.

Although the project was rejected in Rehoboth, there were enough votes for passage in the member communities which included Berkley, Bridgewater, Dighton, Middleborough, Raynham, and Taunton.

The only major contested race was for two seats on the DightonRehoboth Regional School Committee. Incumbents Richard Barrett and Aaron Morse were re-elected.

Morse won 522 votes, Barrett won 445, and challenger Robert Owens trailed with 378 votes.

Selectmen Robert Johnson and Lenny Mills won re-election with no opposition. Mills was also re-elected to the Planning Board.

Riccardo Binetti won a seat on the town’s Board of Assessors with no opposition.

Town Moderator William Cute won re-election with no opposition.

Kenneth Abrams defeated Miranda Aguiar for a seat on the Park Commission.

Katie Eyer and Patricia Vadnais won seats on the Water Commission.

Elizabeth Ruehrwein won a seat on the Housing Authority with no opposition.

Gary Allen Zimmer defeated Russell Richmond for the position of Constable.

D-R to Honor Veteran School Committee Member Janice Terry

By Joe Siegel

The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District is holding an event on March 28 to honor the retirement of Janice Terry.

Terry has served 30 years as a Dighton Rehoboth School Committee member. “Janice’s unwavering commitment to education in DR has impacted countless lives in our community, and we would like to honor her for her outstanding contributions,” Superintendent Bill Runey said Thursday.

The event will begin at 5:30pm at the Dighton Rehoboth Regional High School’s Library located at 2700 Regional Road in North Dighton. The event will include refreshments.

“At the start of the regularly scheduled School Committee meeting, we will present Janice with a plaque commemorating her service,” Runey added. “We hope that you will be able to join us in celebrating Janice’s many years of service and dedication to our #WeAreDR community.”

Please RSVP by this Monday to mblackburn@drregional.org.

D-R High School Students Partner with Tree-Plenish

By Joe Siegel

Students from Dighton Rehoboth Regional High School are partnering with the nonprofit organization Tree-Plenish to help make their community more sustainable. They plan to plant 400 saplings on April 29 to offset the school’s energy consumption from the past academic year. These trees will be planted at all five schools and in residents’ yards throughout the communities.

Tree-Plenish is a student-led 501(c)(3) non profit organization with the mission of empowering students to create a more sustainable and equitable future through community tree-planting.

Tree-Plenish mentors students through a step-by-step process to achieve their ultimate goal: hosting their own tree-planting event to help offset the carbon their school emits in an academic year. With the help of Tree-Plenish, students calculate their school’s energy consumption to determine their sapling goal. In order to reach their goal number of saplings, students rely on residents of the community to order saplings to be planted by volunteers in their yard.

“Throughout the fall and early winter, students from Dighton Rehoboth Regional High School have been planning their treeplanting event,” said Superintendent Bill Runey. “They are now starting to market their event to the community, with the goal of getting residents to order a sapling, free of charge, to be planted in their yard on the day of the event.”

Residents can order a sapling to be planted in their yard or sign up to volunteer to plant saplings on the day of the event. Residents can choose between Eastern Redbud, Flowering Dogwood, and Sugar Maple saplings.

For more information, visit http://tpevents.org/school/3157. The deadline to order is March 29.

Selectmen Consider Helicopter Bylaw

By Joe Siegel

The Rehoboth Board of Selectmen has given their approval for a new bylaw regulating where helicopters can operate following a recent incident in a residential area.

“It’s just a very dangerous situation,” Patricia Vadnais, a member of the Agricultural Commission, told the board on Monday.

Vadnais noted the commission voted to draft a bylaw to put before voters at the May town meeting.

A helicopter landed near a horse farm where a riding class was taking place.

“These horses are sitting in their paddocks going nuts and then (the helicopter) maliciously flew over the riding arena when people were inside the riding arena at night,” Vadnais said, adding in the future, anyone who wanted to operate a helicopter on their property would have to seek the permission of the agricultural commission.

Selectman Rob Johnson said the town’s legal counsel was researching what type of bylaw can be proposed.

“There was a cease and desist given to the landowner,” Johnson noted. “So this won’t happen again until we get through this bylaw process.”

“We want (the bylaw) clearly written where it still protects the farmer who needs to spray his fields and crops but yet protect the riders,” Vadnais added.

Rehoboth Selectmen Discuss Barney Avenue

By Joe Siegel

The Rehoboth Board of Selectmen discussed ways to improve safety at the intersection of Barney Avenue and Route 6, which has been the site of several accidents.

Selectman Rob Johnson mentioned trimming hedges as a way to make it easier for drivers to navigate.

Another option is to redesign the intersection into a T shape.

“It’s (drivers) trying to take a left (onto Route 6),” Johnson said.

Chairman Skip Vadnais praised the work of the highway department in responding to a recent accident scene at the intersection.

“I hope everyone appreciates what all these guys do,” Vadnais said at Monday’s meeting. “They don’t wait to get told what to do. They’re out there doing it.”

Dighton-Rehoboth Approves $50 Million Budget

By Joe Siegel

The Dighton-Rehoboth School Committee approved a $49.9 million budget for the next fiscal year on an 8 to 2 vote Tuesday.

The budget represents a request of roughly a $1.8 million increase over the FY’23 School Committee adopted budget of $48.1 million.

Superintendent Bill Runey said the district was facing a $1.9 million deficit due to a number of factors, including contractually obligated increases in salaries and wages, employee benefits, buildings and grounds expenses, and transportation. Rising utility costs and inflation are also a problem.

“Our legal fees are expensive due to human resources issues,” Runey explained.

In addition, 15 of the district’s 17 administrators are new, which requires training and the use of outside contractors.

As a result, there will be layoffs and the elimination of muchneeded security upgrades for all the schools, including the installation of cameras and new door locks.

“We need to make our buildings safer,” Runey said, noting recent break-ins at Dighton Middle School and Palmer River Elementary School.

Runey also cited a dramatic decline in enrollment in the district, with a third of all eighth grade middle school students opting not to attend Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School.

“That is unacceptable,” Runey said. “We have a great high school.”

Runey praised the Career and Technical Education (CTE) program at the high school, noting it would be “vital to the success of our students.”

Many students and parents attended the school committee meeting to voice their support for music and language programs.

Runey acknowledged there would be a reduction in the number of music teachers at the district’s middle schools but noted the music programs would continue. There is no intention of “tampering” with the music program at the high school, Runey added.

“I feel like you’re robbing from the poor to give to the rich,” said one parent. “Cutting positions is not building DR, it’s decimating DR.”

One of the speakers suggested the school department approach the two member towns to request more money.

Runey remains optimistic about the future, despite the budget difficulties: “Faith and trust in this district has been restored.”

The Seekonk Scene

From the Clerk

April started off with the annual Town Election April 3rd I would like to thank The Seekonk Reporter for extending the submission deadline so we could include the election results below.

Election Results for Annual Town Election

The Annual Town Election took place on April 3, 2023 below are the results. Thanks to the Seekonk residents we had a huge voter turnout.

Eligible voters: 11,534. Total votes

cast: 2,104 (18%)

Precinct 1 - 459 votes. Precinct 2 – 709 votes.

Precinct 3 -472 votes. Precinct 4 – 464 votes.

• Board of Assessors – Janet Parker

• Board of Selectmen – Pamela Pozzi, Michelle A. Hines

• Housing Authority – TBA

• Library Board of Trustees – Catherine

Capello

• Library Board of Trustees – Fred Slemon

• Planning Board – Lee B. Dunn

• School Committee – Kyle Juckett

• Town Clerk – Florice Craig

• Town Moderator – Peter Hoogerzeil

• Water Commissioner- Guy Larrimer

Non-Binding Ballot Questions Results

Is the Town in favor of changing its form of government from an appointed Town Administrator/ Board of Selectmen/Open Town Meeting to another form of government such as a Representative Town Meeting, elected Mayor/elected Town Council or appointed Town Manager/elected Town Council, or otherwise?

Yes -901 No-1031

Is the Town in favor of changing its form of government from an appointed Town Administrator/ Board of Selectmen/Open Town Meeting to an elected Mayor/elected Town Council form?

Yes-866 No-1038

Is the Town in favor of changing its form of government from an appointed Town Administrator/ Board of Selectmen/Open Town Meeting to an appointed Town Manager/ elected Town Council form?

Yes- 548 No- 1294

Is the Town in favor of changing its form of government from an appointed Town Administrator/ Board of Selectmen/Open Town Meeting to an appointed Town Administrator/ elected Board of Selectmen/Representative (elected) Town Meeting form?

Yes-505 No- 1331

Congratulations to all the candidates who won. Best of luck in your new or re-elected positions. Thanks to all the candidates who ran, but didn’t win. It’s not an easy task running for an elected position. Your time and effort were not wasted. People will remember you and your desire to serve the town.

It takes many people to run an election I would like to thank the following: All our wonderful poll workers and registrars. It’s a long day each and every one of you is appreciated for all your dedication

Dr. Gian Calandrelli

Florice Craig

continued on next page...

and hard work. Also thank you to the Police Department, School Department and Department of Public Works. Also special thanks to the Assistant Town Clerk, Lorraine Sorel, all her hard work, dedication and positive attitude, never goes unnoticed.

A quick reminder to elected and appointed town officials; please be aware that you can take no action, in your position, until you have taken the Oath of Office. Come to the Town Clerk’s office at your earliest convenience to get sworn in.

Spring Town Meeting May 8, 2023

The Annual Spring Town meeting will be held 7:00pm at the Seeking High School auditorium 261 Arcade Ave. The last day to register to vote for town meeting is April, 18. If you want to register to vote on line, please visit this website. https://www.sec.state.ma.us/ ovr/ or you come into Town Hall and register to vote at the Town Clerks Office. This is the meeting that the budget for the next fiscal year is voted on by only registered voters of the Town. Remember Seekonk is your town and your voice matters.

Rabies Clinic Update

The annual rabies clinic was a success. A big thank you to Animal Control Officer Andrea Russo, Assistant Jessica Blake and Natalie Hayward. Thanks also to the Fire Department, Chief Lowery for letting us use their facility; Assistant Town Clerk Lorraine Sorel; the Save-a-Pet volunteers, as well as the DPW staff for helping set up for the event. Thank you to Dr. Truesdale and his employees of Central Avenue Veterinary Hospital for volunteering their time to give the vaccinations. See you next year.

Friendly reminder yearly dog licenses were due March 31. If you haven’t registered your dog(s) please do so to avoid getting a $20.00 late fee. The grace period will end May 31st

Save the Date

• April 17 - Patriots Day- Town Offices closed.

• April 17 – 21 Seekonk Schools closed for spring vacation.

Have wonderful April; if you are going away for vacation, safe travels to you and your family. Also, I would like to thank the citizens of Seekonk for having the faith and confidence in me to re-elect me as your Town Clerk.

Florice Craig

Seekonk Water District’s Annual Meeting

The Seekonk Water District’s Annual Meeting will be held at 50 Water Lane on May 9th. The meeting will start at 6:00 PM.

The main items on the agenda are a vote on the Fiscal Year 2024 Budget and Warrant Articles. The Warrant Articles are to pay for operations and various projects (i.e. water meter replacement and well replacement).

A quorum of 25 SWD water users is needed to hold the meeting.

Thank you, Guy Larrimer

Seekonk Land Conservation Trust Earth Day Cleanup

Saturday, April 22, 2023

10 AM to 1 PM

Meeting Place: Trailhead parking lot at Martin Refuge (across Fall River Ave from Four Echoes)

Contact: Jessica Blackledge, Stewardship Coordinator at slctstewardship@gmail. com

Join the Seekonk Land Conservation Trust (SLCT) and the Runnins River Watershed Alliance (RRWA) for our Annual Earth Day Cleanup at the Edna Martin Wildlife Refuge on Fall River Ave in Seekonk. We will be picking up trash on the property and on the public trails around Burrs Pond and other Land Trust properties in Seekonk.

Bags will be provided. Bring your own gloves, water, tick repellent, and appropriate clothes/footwear.

Let us know that you plan to attend, or if you have questions, please email Jessica Blackledge, Seekonk Land Trust Stewardship Coordinator at slctstewardship@gmail. com. We look forward to seeing you there!

Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Food Drive to support Doorways

Our Lady of Mt Carmel Church conducted a Lenten food drive last month for the benefit of the food pantries in Seekonk and Rehoboth, collecting hundreds of pounds of food. Their donation to Doorways supports many Seekonk residents in need of a helping hand, and the food thus provided will fill cupboards of homes throughout Seekonk for weeks to come. Such food drives provide not only great quantities of food, but also welcome variety. When someone donates a food item they particularly enjoy, someone else on the receiving end is delighted to discover that same food item on our shelf. When people participate in a food drive, it really makes a difference; over seventy

Ready to Tire You Out at Earth Day Clean-Up, 2020 photo by Susan Waddington

families rely on Doorways on a regular basis, and Doorways relies on people like the parishioners of OLMC. May God bless you all.

Aitken School students pose with some of the food collected on Bingo Night

In March, the Aitken School PTO held another family-friendly “Bingo Night” and used the occasion to also teach the students a lesson in community involvement. Families attending the event were asked to bring non-perishable grocery items for the local food pantry. The Aitken School community does several events each year in support of the Doorways food pantry, and we thank them – and we thank all the other Seekonk schools, who also hold events to support our neighbors. Over the last 21 years, over seven hundred families have received necessary food support, and almost two million pounds of food has been distributed – all at no cost to our client families, and all made possible by the generosity of the people of Seekonk. Our gratitude is boundless - we are humbled by your support, awed by your generosity, and hopeful for the future. We give thanks for all you do.

Volunteers from Doorways unload and sort donations from Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church

Looking Back… to Old-Fashioned Thanksgivings

By Phyllis Dupere

Seekonk Elects New Selectmen

By Joe Siegel

David Andrade and Adam Petronio were defeated in their bids for re-election to the Seekonk Board of Selectmen Monday. Andrade served three terms on the board. Petronio was elected to the board in 2020.

Newcomer Pamela Pozzi and Michelle Hines, a former selectwoman, will now serve on the board.

Karen E. Frazao Owner ~

Many of us heard the story about the First Thanksgiving from family members and in the lower grades at school. The Pilgrims and the Native Americans dined together on wild turkey, fish, ducks and geese, venison, corn, onions and chestnuts. Fruits and berries were a tasty dessert. It wasn’t a quick run to the grocery store for this meal to come to fruition. After a successful 1621 growing season, all gathered for a three day “festival” of sorts, knowing that they had a sufficient harvest, large enough to celebrate and still have ample provisions to last through the following spring. It did take a community to prepare the foods. Was it a feast or just a simple meal shared by many thankful people? I think it was a little of each.

Moving ahead to 1863, President Abraham Lincoln announced that the first “official” Thanksgiving holiday would be celebrated on Thursday, November 26, 1863. On Thanksgiving Day 1924, Macy’s Christmas Parade (now known as the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade) offered marching bands, floats, and animals. Santa was in the last float, symbolically bringing in the Christmas season. The parade has grown in size and its route has been altered slightly since its beginning. Currently, the route is approximately two and one-half miles long, terminating in front of Macy’s flagship department store on 34th Street at Herald Square. Santa, now with a bit more fanfare and confetti, still brings in the Christmas season.

Pozzi, who is employed as a software engineer, told the Reporter she would bring a “positive outlook” to the board.

Hines is a former member of the Seekonk Police Department and touted her work for the town’s senior citizens.

The unofficial tally showed Pozzi with 1223 votes, Hines with 1141, Andrade with 803, and Petronio with 586.

2104 voters, which represents 18.24 percent, of the town’s 11, 534 eligible voters, cast ballots.

Kyle Juckett defeated rival Bernard Luger in the contest for one seat on the School Committee. Juckett won 1029 votes to Luger’s 993.

Juckett works as a Detective for the Pawtucket Police Department and was a candidate for the School Committee in 2022.

Voters also opted for a new form of town government. Four non-binding ballot questions offered the choice of a Representative Town Meeting (RTM), elected Mayor/Town Council, or an elected Town Manager/Town Council. Question one got 1932 yes votes, with 901 in opposition. Question two got 1904 yes votes and 866 no votes. Question three got 1842 yes votes with 548 opposed. Question four got 1830 yes votes and 505 no votes.

Lee Dunn was re-elected to the Planning Board with no opposition.

Former Town Clerk Jan Parker won a seat on the Board of Assessors. The race was uncontested.

Town Clerk Florice Craig and Town Moderator Peter Hoogerzeil were also re-elected with no opposition.

Guy Larrimer was elected to serve as Water Commissioner with no opposition.

Catherine Capello and Fred Slemon were elected to serve on the Library Board of Trustees with no opposition.

There were no candidates for an open seat on the Housing Authority.

Seekonk Hires Four New Firefighters

By Joe Siegel

Michael Cronin, Shane Dillon, Alexander Summerhayes, and Carolina O’Donnell will serve as Third Class Firefighters/Paramedics for the town of Seekonk.

The Board of Selectmen authorized the hires at their March 1 meeting.

“I believe he will be a great addition to our department,” Fire Chief Sandra Lowery said of Cronin, who lives in Woonsocket, Rhode Island.

Cronin works for Coastal Medical as an EMT Basic.

Dillon is from North Attleboro. Dillon’s father and uncle serve in the North Attleboro Fire Department.

Summerhayes is an Air Force veteran who has served active duty in Afghanistan.

O’Donnell, a Seekonk resident, is employed as a running coach for Bishop Hendricken High School and as a transportation specialist for Brewster Ambulance.

Seekonk Launches Search for New School Superintendent After Drolet Announces Resignation

By Joe Siegel

The Seekonk School Committee voted Monday to accept the resignation of Superintendent Rich Drolet. Drolet is departing at the end of June to lead the King Philip Regional School District in Norfolk. The announcement was made early March on King Philip’s website.

On July 1, Drolet will succeed Superintendent Paul Zinni, who is retiring on June 30, pending the successful completion of contract negotiations. “Dr. Drolet brings a wealth of experience in education and leadership with him to the district, and I am excited to see the ways in which he supports King Philip’s growth in the years to come,” Superintendent Zinni said. “I’ve been fortunate to consider Dr. Drolet a colleague in recent years and am confident he will make an immediate positive impact on our students, staff and community as a whole.”

“In Seekonk, Drolet oversaw the development of a three-year Strategy for Continuous District Improvement, which served as a precursor to the district’s five-year District Strategy for Student Success. This strategic plan serves as a complement to Seekonk’s Vision of a Graduate.”

“In addition, Drolet served on committees that oversaw an expansion of Aitken Elementary School, an installation of Seekonk High School’s turf field and track facility and the construction of Seekonk Transitions Academy — a special education program for adults between the ages of 18-22. Drolet has also spearheaded Seekonk’s work in adding key positions to lower class sizes,” the announcement read.

“I feel it’s a huge loss to Seekonk and I’m sad to see him go,” committee chair Erin Brouillette said.

The committee voted to hire an outside firm to conduct a search for Drolet’s replacement. Members of the public will be recruited to

review applications and conduct interviews for the finalists. “I think time is of the essence,” Brouillette said of the process to replace Drolet.

Drolet has been serving as Superintendent since 2018. Before coming to Seekonk, Drolet served as the Director of Curriculum, Instruction, Assessment and Accountability for the Uxbridge Public Schools.

The last several months have been turbulent for Drolet and the school district. Last October, Drolet issued a No Trespass Order to Luis Sousa, a parent of two students at Aitken Elementary School, as a result of incidents at two school committee meetings.

Sousa filed a lawsuit October 20 in the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts. The complaint alleged Drolet and the members of the school committee committed violations of Sousa’s rights under the first and fourteenth amendments, pertaining to free speech and equal protection, along with the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA). Sousa claims he suffers from bipolar disorder.

Party Rental Services

Seekonk Unveils $36 Million School Budget

By Joe Siegel

The proposed Seekonk Public Schools budget for the next fiscal year is $36.3 million, a 2.98 percent increase over the current year’s budget.

The $36.3 million is the actual cost of operating the schools. It is offset by other district revenue sources totaling approximately $4.2 million. This brings the net FY’24 tentative operating budget to $32, 110, 960.

Superintendent Rich Drolet and members of the School Committee made their presentation to the Board of Selectmen Wednesday.

The majority of the budget, $23.9 million, is for instruction. $1.7 million is for administration. $4 million is for pupil services and $2.3 million is to pay for maintenance and utilities.

There will be a projected increase in state aid of $578, 354 for a total of $7, 754,874.

“It should be noted that our FY24 school department budget is increasing by 4.06 percent compared to our FY23 school department budget, but with the increase in state Chapter 70 funds for FY24 the amount asked from the town is less,” Drolet explained. “It should be noted that there is an estimated $80,123 increase for public school tuition increases at Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School and Bristol County Agricultural High School.”

New positions include a Transitions Coordinator and a part-time social studies teacher at Seekonk High School, an Elementary Adjustment Counselor for Aitken and Martin schools, a Special Education teacher for Aitken, and a Special Education teacher at Hurley Middle School.

A Community Coach will also be hired for the Seekonk Transitions Academy. The coach will help students as they engage in job training and community experiences outside of the school building.

Drolet noted the majority of FY24’s newly proposed positions will offer programming for students with IEPs (individualized education programs), which will lead to increased support for students with special needs, stronger district programming at the elementary level, and increased opportunities for inclusion with expanded related service providers within the classroom setting.

“As it relates to our budget, we will continue to strive to reduce the number of students who need to be educated outside of our public school district by strategically investing in programming and staff in FY24. In the past five years our number of out-of-district students has gone down 25 percent (from 40 to 32 students),” Drolet noted. “During the same time, the number of students with IEPs has risen 22 percent (from 332 to 406 students).”

“We’ve tried to build up programming and we’ve done a good job with that,” Drolet said. “There are a couple of new Special Education programs that require a teacher at the elementary and middle level.”

The district will be paying increases for the following:

Special education out of district costs. There is a state-wide projected increase of 10 percent for Educational Collaborative tuitions and 14 percent for MA non-Public and Out-of-State tuitions for students already out of district. The increase total is $329, 744.

Transportation. Along with contractual increases of four percent for all transportation contracts, the district needs to add another regular route due to an increase in Hurley Middle school enrollment. That increase is $195,052.

Rising energy costs. Inflation and high demand has resulted in significant increases in electricity and gas prices that have affected the nation. Delivery rates provided by National Grid and Eversource have increased substantially as well. The projected increase is $119,000.

Technology software. The increase is $129,119.

The link to the budget can be accessed under the Quick Links tab on the district website: https://www.seekonkschools.org.

People In The News

The Urban Sketchers Visit Local Landmark

On April 1st the Urban Sketchers of Rhode Island held their weekly drawing meetup at Leonards New England. The artists settled in among the furniture and produced some impressive sketches of scenes around their Seekonk showroom.

The Urban Sketchers web page can be found here: https://urbansketchersrhodeisland.com/

Leonards New England: https://leonardsnewengland.com/

right: The artists with their sketches

Pictured at

Rehoboth neighbors Brighton Ferraro (Left) and Gino Jacovides (Right) having an “egg-cellent” time lounging on the fire truck at the Annual Easter Egg Hunt. The egg hunt took place at Francis Farm on April 2nd.

Chris Brooks

Some of the sketches.

Rehoboth Antiquarian Society Announces Scholarship Winner

The Rehoboth Antiquarian Society has awarded our 2022-2023 scholarship to Laura Clerx, a Seekonk resident. A graduate of Bishop Feehan High School and Harvard College, Laura is currently enrolled in a PhD program at Boston College. Her area of study is Early American History. Laura’s graduate research focuses on how “scientific knowledge made by early Americans was influenced by economic expansion in the early republic.” William Blanding of Rehoboth contributed to this field of study by observing and recording local weather conditions in diaries. Laura will be our featured speaker at the RAS Annual Meeting to be held on Wednesday, May 3, 2023 at the Carpenter Museum in Rehoboth.

The 2023-2024 RAS Scholarship Committee invites eligible candidates from the Greater Rehoboth area to apply for this second semester scholarship. The successful candidate(s) will be awarded up to $1,000 in scholarship funds. Graduate and undergraduate students enrolled in the fall in a post-secondary program majoring in museum studies, history, library science, or related fields are encouraged to apply. An application and information can be found on the RAS website: rehobothantiquarian.org/ras-scholarship/. The application deadline is Friday, June 16, 2023.

Professional Musicians of the Southcoast Elects New Leaders

Professional Musicians of the Southcoast Local 216 has announced the election of its leadership team for 2023. The organization is a member of the American Federation of Musicians, AFL-CIO which is comprised of 80,000 members throughout the United States and Canada who perform in orchestras, backup bands, festivals, clubs and theaters. AFM members also make music for films, television, commercials and sound recordings. It is the largest labor union of musicians in the world.

Local 216 represents musicians from Fall River, New Bedford, Taunton and many other communities throughout Bristol County and Norfolk County as well as Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket, and several communities within the East Bay of Rhode Island.

Newly elected Local 216 President Tom Rose, a Rehoboth resident, began playing in his mid-teens, joining Taunton Local 231 and performing in the Taunton City Band and the Taunton Municipal Band. It was bandleader Lou Perry who inspired Tom to join the AFM. Prior to the merger with Local 216, Tom served on Local 231’s Executive Board.

He graduated from University of Lowell (Now UMass Lowell) with a bachelor’s in music education and has played saxophone, clarinet, and flute in a wide variety of local settings over the last 45 years, serving as bandleader in several. He has shared the stage with the late Arthur Fiedler, as well as Henny Youngman, Freda Payne, Martha Reeves, and Tiny Tim, to name a few. Tom looks forward to leading Local 216 into the future as an effective advocate of live music.

Newly elected Vice President Scott Abrahamson, a lifelong resident of Rehoboth, began his musical journey when he picked up a trumpet in fourth grade. In his teens, Scott played for church services, weddings, and with Lou Perry’s Taunton City Band, eventually joining Local 231. Following the merger with Local 216, Scott served on the Executive Board there as well.

An accomplished music educator and music industry businessman, Scott has not only performed throughout the region, but extensively throughout the East Coast as well as in the Mid-West, Canada, and Europe. Recent projects include solo work and leading his own jazz quartet and a brass quintet. Scott is an artist and educational clinician for Jupiter Band Instruments/XO Professional Brass, a leading manufacturer of world class instruments, and is also the owner of The Music Wagon, LLC. Local 216, along with the other Locals within the American Federation of Music, strongly advocates for the performance of live music and for the musicians who create it.

Left to right: Rebecca Smith, Otter Brown Laura Clerx, Maureen Whittemore, Joyce Coleman, Beverly Baker Photographer: Ron Whittemore

Left to right, Scott Abrahamson (Vice President), Tom Rose III (President), and Dan Ferreira (Secretary-Treasurer)

University News

Emmanuel College Announces Fall 2022 Dean’s List

Boston, MA -- In recognition of their outstanding academic achievement, Emmanuel College has named more than 800 students to the Dean’s List for the Fall 2022 semester. To earn a spot on the Dean’s List, Emmanuel students must achieve a grade point average of 3.5 or higher for a 16-credit semester. Local students honored include:

Caroline Reed of Rehoboth

Julia Woodcock of Seekonk

Bryant University Students Named to Fall 2022 Deans’ List

Smithfield, RI -- Bryant University is pleased to recognize the students who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to academic excellence and achievement and have been named to the fall 2022 Deans’ List. To earn a place on the Deans’ List students must have a GPA of 3.4 or better for at least 12 semester hours of work. Congratulations to all on this outstanding achievement!

Rehoboth: Peter Day, Jake Johnson

Seekonk: Emily Ferrick, Sara Letourneau

Dominic Mauretti Named to Hamilton College

Fall 2022 Dean’s

List

Clinton, NY -- Dominic Mauretti, of Rehoboth, has been named to the Dean’s List at Hamilton College for the 2022 fall semester. Mauretti, a first-year student, is a graduate of The Lawrenceville School.

Local residents named to Clark University’s Fall 2022 Dean’s List

Worcester, MA -- Following are names of local students whose outstanding academic performance earned them a spot on Clark University’s Fall 2022 Dean’s List:

Lindsay T. Carlson, of Rehoboth, was named to second honors.

Ali E. Faria, of Seekonk, was named to second honors.

Rory J. Ross, of Rehoboth, was named to second honors.

Worcester Polytechnic Institute Fall Dean’s List

Noah Ferreira from Rehoboth was named to the dean’s list for the fall semester at WPI (Worcester Polytechnic Institute).

Rehoboth Resident Inducted into Alpha Eta Honor Society at Quinnipiac University

Hamden, Conn. - Gabriella Moreira of Rohoboth, a student in the Health Science Studies/Physical Therapy, Undergraduate program in the School of Health Sciences at Quinnipiac University, was inducted into Alpha Eta, the national honor society for the allied health professions, during a recent on-campus ceremony.

Abbie Green-Sermak- Dean’s List at St. Joseph College of Maine

Abbie Green-Sermak, a resident of Rehoboth, was named to the Fall 2022 Dean’s List, earning a 4.0 at St. Joseph’s College of Maine. She is enrolled in the pre-physical therapy honors program at the college and plays on the softball team.

Hailey Enos Inducted into Education Honor Society

Easton, MA -- Hailey Enos of Rehoboth, MA, a member of the Class of 2025, has been inducted into Alpha Beta Gamma, Stonehill’s chapter of Kappa Delta Pi, the international honor society for education majors.

Rehoboth Ramblings

by Leslie Patterson

Another Reluctant Traveler

“Travel is stressful.” So say 92% of those responding to a recent survey quoted in the Boston Globe. My first thought was what about the other 8%? Maybe they travel on private jets. But I have to say that our most recent flights (on Southwest, no less) were just fine. We flew to Ft. Lauderdale from Green Airport and even got in early on our return. After all the alarming stories about flying recently, it’s worth remembering that the vast majority of flights are uneventful, even if a little too crowded for comfort.

On our first vacation to South Florida since 2019, it seemed much as I remembered, only worse as far as sprawl, traffic and truly scary driving are concerned. There are the endless identical pink and beige shopping plazas. Which city are we in again? I can’t tell. And most of all, having to drive on the local main streets that are actually six-lane highways with traffic lights and intersections. Speeding drivers on the highway weave recklessly in and out, even worse than here (I realize that many of them are from up here). So yes, driving was stressful.

The one truly nerve-wracking incident was having a flat tire on the Tamiami Trail on the way to the Everglades on our last day. Long story short, it all turned out OK but it ruined our plans for the day. We’ve seen the Everglades before but always enjoy the wide variety of wildlife there, especially birds. Fortunately, we visited a favorite spot, Wakodahatchee Wetlands in Delray Beach and saw a variety of birds (anhingas, herons, and egrets as well as large colonies of wood storks in the trees). Reptiles too. OK, so the iguanas are invasive here, but we did see a large alligator lurking in the water.

How I admire everyone who eagerly takes off on adventurous travel, but I am an anxious traveler myself, even going somewhere as touristy as Florida. Various travel incidents (mercifully, none of them dire) over the years only served to increase my anxiety. When the tire on the rental car blew out, it was as if I had been anticipating something going wrong.

I really enjoyed the series on Apple TV called “The Reluctant Traveler” though I see where some are criticizing celebrity travel shows. It stars comic actor Eugene Levy just being his anxious self as he gets to visit places all over the world, from Finland to Costa Rica to South Africa, not to mention Lisbon and Tokyo. In spite of staying in some very luxurious lodgings, he approaches each new experience with some reluctance, though he actually has a pretty great time everywhere. As a somewhat reluctant traveler myself, I enjoyed the series and Levy’s deadpan humor. Plus, it’s lighthearted entertainment, not dark and edgy like so many shows on streaming services.

It’s always nice to get away from the cold, even in a mild winter, but it was already quite hot in Florida. With blessedly low humidity it was pleasant in the shade. We discovered that 4 pm on a late winter day, when the sun has calmed down, was the perfect time to go to their beautiful beaches.

But it is hard to visit Florida without some real environmental concerns, including, but not limited to, rising sea levels and monster hurricanes like the one in Southwest Florida last fall; red tide and a mass of seaweed thousands of miles wide heading for the Gulf of Mexico; way too many invasive pythons moving north from the Everglade decimating the native wildlife; and manatees starving because so much of the sea grass they eat has been destroyed by pollution. These gentle giants like to seek out warmer water in winter but in late February the water around Manatee Lagoon in West Palm Beach (near the power plant) was already too warm for them so presumably they had already headed out to sea.

So, I’m not one of the many people in New England who like to go South for the entire winter. I would enjoy living there year-round even less. Florida summers are unbearable and go on for way too long. It’s nice to go somewhere quite different on vacation, but it’s even nicer to come home and realize that you really do like where you live. Not only do we have four distinct seasons and ponds and waterways free of alligators, New England just feels like home.

Events & Activities

All Portuguese Dinner

Free Dinner for our Veterans

Saturday, April 8th Dinner Served: 4:00to 7:00p.m.

Legion opens at 12:00 p.m.

@ American Legion Post 302; 84 Bay State Road, Rehoboth MA Relax and let our Host from Full Scope Construction do all the work!

Eat In – Cash Bar – Music

Portuguese Band with Portuguese Music

Catered by Paiva of Taunton

Shrimp Mesquite, Chicken Mesquite, Prime Rib, Meat & Potatoes, Rice with Rolls & Butter, Chicken Wings with meat on the bone

$500.00 Cash Raffle Prize and others

First Come, First Seated, Patio will be open with the band outside Dinner Provided by Full Scope Construction Company

Tickets or RSVP $10.00 per plate for Non Veterans

Email for tickets or info: Speedyjake@aol.com * or call / text Jake at 315-415-2277

Rehoboth Station 2 Firefighters

Association

Pasta And Meatball Dinner

Saturday April 15, 2023

Serving Time: 6:00 PM

$15.00 Donation Per Ticket

See Any Station 2 Firefighter for Tickets

Or Call (508) 226-2914, (508) 252-3132

Rehoboth Station 2 Firefighters Association

333 Tremont Street; Rehoboth, MA 02769

Seekonk’s Taste of the Town

If you came to the Seekonk Lions Club sponsorship of the 25th Annual Seekonk’s Taste of the Town let it be told you were part of a new legacy in Seekonk town lore. Along with the fine spirits from Chris Gasbarro’s Liquors and the vendors on hand that night, it was an evening well received and an event to build upon in the future. Over 200 people attended throughout the evening.

And guess what? We are back for the 26th annual version on Monday night 5-8pm April 17, 2023. So, what will $30 get you this year? How about the fine selections of food and spirits along with raffle prizes that are one of a kind! Take home some complimentary Sam Adams beer glasses! Multiply that by an autograph or have your picture taken with the New England Patriots Cheerleaders! Now we are talking!

The question is, what do you need to do to attend this event? Check the flyer on these pages of the Reporter for more information or scan the QR code in the lower right-hand corner of the flyer to get a ticket thru Pay Pal. See you Monday night!

18th Century Minuteman Camp

Rehoboth Minutemen/ 13th Continental Regiment

Saturday, May 6, 2023 1-4 pm

FREE EVENT!

Winslow/Davis Museum 1217 Williams Street Dighton, MA

The 13th Continental Regiment will set up a full camp with tents items used during colonial times

There will be talks on weapons, medical equipment, occupations, clothing, toys, food and more

Come out and learn about the American Revolution and Massachusetts history

Event is free to the public and we welcome history lovers of all ages

Sponsored by:

Hosted by: Dighton Historical Society

Drive-Thru Chicken BBQ

Fundraiser & Raffle

Raffle donations appreciated!

Sunday, April 16 12:30 - 1:30 PM

Seekonk Gun Club 61 Reed Street, Rehoboth, MA 02769

$25 Per Person

Date: Pick-up: Place: Facebook: @RehobothPeopleHaveaHeart Website: rehobothpeoplehaveaheart.com

For tickets, information or to make a donation, please call Rob Johnson at (508) 243-4160 or message us on Facebook

The Rehoboth

Arts in the Village Concert

April 29th at 7:30PM

• Performers: Jonathan Cohler and Rasa Vitkauskaite

• Presenter: Arts in the Village Concert Series

• When: Saturday, April 29, 7:30 p.m.

• Where: Goff Memorial Hall, 124 Bay State Rd., Rehoboth, MA

• How much: $22 general; $20 seniors; $8 children and students; cash, credit card, check Information: Doors open at 7:00 p.m.; first come, first seated; wheelchair accessible; 508-431-6879; http://www.rehobothantiquarian.org/arts-in-the-village/

Craft Show

April 29, 2023 12-4pm

Presented by Hawk Clan, Metis Nation of North America to benefit Veterans Honoring POWWOW

American Legion Post 303; 73 Ocean Grove Ave, Swansea, MA 02777

*Native American Hand Made Crafts

*Military Pins/Patches, Hats & More

*Other Crafters * Raffles

16 Tables Available $25 each

Contact Clan Chief Gil Woodside at 508-962-4795

Friends of the Palmer River Birdwalk

Friends of the Palmer River are sponsoring a free familyfriendly birdwalk at an undisclosed location, hopefully along the Palmer River, from 8 am to 10 am, Saturday, April 29th, with rain date April 30 from 8-10 am. Our leader will be Dighton Bird Club’s president, Joel Eckerson. There is a limit of 25 participants, at least 10 years of age. To register and learn location, call Otter Brown at 508-252-6288.

We can discuss the birding interest of any children less than 10 years old.

Spring Psychic Fair

April 30th

We will be holding our Spring Psychic Fair on Sunday, 4/30/23 at the Seekonk American Legion located at 351 Fall River Ave, 2nd floor, Seekonk, MA. Admission is free. 15-minute readings are $20.00 each. There will also be several Vendors/Crafters (spaces still available). The hours are from 10 am to 3 pm. Proceeds to benefit the American Legion Auxiliary programs for our Veterans, community, and children. For more information, please call 508336-9822 or send email to auxiliary311@yahoo.com.

Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School Class of 1973 ~ 50th Reunion

Saturday, August 19, 2023 Time: 5PM-10PM

Five Bridge Inn, 152 Pine Street, Rehoboth MA 02769

Hors d’oeuvres – Cash Bar

Buffet Dinner – DJ – Dancing

$75 per person. Reservations now being accepted.

Attire: Evening Casual

or email Thurston Tarter pttarter@gmail.com

Visit our facebook page: Dighton-Rehoboth Class of 1973 or contact Janice Hagopian Narsasian at jnarsasian@gmail.com. Please leave your name, street address, email address, and phone number. You will be contacted with addition information.

David C Zaluski DDS FAGD Family - Implant - Cosmetic Dentistry

Fashions of 1776 with Historic Tales

May 13, 2023 1:00 – 3:00 PM

Fashions of 1776 along with Historic Tales with be presented by the Rehoboth Minutemen/13th Continental Regiment on May 13,2023 from 1:00 – 3:00 PM at the Attleboro library. The purpose of our organization is twofold: First, to accurately recreate the lifestyles, clothing, equipment, drill, battle scenarios, and encampments of the men, women, and children of the original 1774 Company, as closely as possible. Secondly, to provide an educational resource and further the public’s understanding of the American War of Independence. The fashions of 1776 with historic tales will showcase the Patriots of Attleboro along with other local communities, who played a role in the fight for independence. By using researched reproduction clothing and accessories, we will demonstrate the difference between a continental soldier, a colonial minuteman, sailors, farmers, and man of substantial wealthy. We will also explore the

myth of colonial flags, recite colonial poems and songs of the era. And to quote Abigail Adams, we will “Remember the Ladies” We will also discuss the vital role women played in the fight for independence.

Seating is limited so please scan the QR code to register or call the library to reserve your seat today!

To learn more about the Rehoboth Minutemen/13th continental regiment please consult our webpage at http://www.13thcontinentalregiment. org/ or our Facebook page at https://www. facebook.com/thirteenth.regiment

Seekonk High School Class of 1973 50th year Reunion

August 26th at 1087 Newman Ave. contact the committee Jacquelyn “Lyn“ Greeley Robinson, Deb Stebenne and Michelle Hines on Facebook and messenger. Pass the word.

EP Class of 1963 Where Are You?

East Providence Class of 1963 Reunion

Saturday, August 26, 2023

Shriner’s Imperial Room (handicap accessible)

One Rhodes Place, Cranston, RI

6 - 7 Cocktails --- 7 Buffet

by Ralph’s Catering

DJ - Sergio

$60 pp - $1 per year

Please makes checks payable to EPHS Class of 1963 and mail to Betty Dulude, 23 Circle Drive, Seekonk, MA by August 5.

Smith Insurance Group

Seekonk Congregational Church News In Person Sunday Services

We hope you will join us each Sunday at Seekonk Congregational Church UCC at 9:30 AM in the Sanctuary at 600 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk, MA for our weekly service. Please come if you feel comfortable, all are welcome, masks are optional.

We will also have a 2nd service Easter Sunday 4/9/23. Communion will be served and childcare will be available. Church school will continue at 9:30 AM

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

Holy Week Services

Easter Vigil will begin following the Good Friday Service and continue until Easter Dawn. (There will be a signup sheet on the bulletin board in the hall.) This has been an unforgettable experience for those who have participated - especially in the middle of the night!

Easter Celebration Services: APRIL 9 at 9:30 AM and 11 AM Organ and Timpani. 9:30…Sacred Dance processional and Children’s Choir sings. All children begin in church and pre-school through 5th graders are invited (unless parents want them to remain in worship) to move to the Hall for special event with baby chicks and bunny.

Early May Day Breakfast

401.829.6567

https://rebeccatherealtor.com

rjc.reagent@gmail.com

We are having a May Day Breakfast on Saturday April 29, 2023 from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM in the hall at 600 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk. Eggs, bacon, sausage, potatoes, muffins, and beverages will be served. $12 for adults and $8 for children. All are invited to attend, for information or tickets please email or text Donna Euell at 401-523-5283 or donna.euell@gmail.com.

Please make note of all our upcoming services and activities:

• 04/09/23 Easter Sunday 2 Services 9:30 & 11 AM

• 04/16/23 Worship Service 9:30 AM

• 04/23/23 Worship Service 9:30 AM

• 04/29/23 Early May Day Breakfast 8:30 to 10:30 AM

• 04/30/23 Worship Service 9:30 AM

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

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

Holy Cross Catholic Church News

141 Hornbine Road, Rehoboth, MA 02769 (401) 714-2812

Holy Week Schedule

Saturday, April 8th

MARBLE & GRANITE

Rehoboth Congregational Church News

Worship With Us Every Sunday

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

Easter at the RCC

Join RCC For Easter this year! We will be having 2 worship services as follows:

• 6:00 AM – Sunrise Service | Anawan Club 13 Gorham Street Rehoboth, MA 02769

• 10:00 AM – Easter Worship | Rehoboth Congregational Church

Sanctuary

Easter Vigil - 4:pm No Mass Easter Sunday Missions Breakfast

Bible Study

Every Thursday at 10:00 AM in our Fellowship Hall, lead by Jodi Durette, Chair of Deacons

Our Missions Committee will be holding their monthly breakfast on Sunday, March 19th following church during Fellowship. A free will offering will be collected to offset costs associated with putting on the breakfast

First Christian Congregational Church to hold Strictly Sentimental Swing Band Concert

The First Christian Congregational Church, UCC located at 1113 GAR Highway, Swansea, MA will be hosting the Strictly Sentimental Swing Band on Monday, May 1, 2023 at 7:00 pm in our beautiful sanctuary. The Concert will feature an assortment of favorite Big Band Songs. Please plan to join with us. No fee, donations only.

SEASON FINALE

SUNDAY MAY 21, 2023, 3:00 PM

EAST PROVIDENCE HIGH SCHOOL

Kristo Kondakçi, Music Director

TCHAIKOVSKY - Romeo and Juliet Fantasy Overture

GLAZUNOV - Saxophone Concerto, Op. 109 featuring Andy Wilds, alto saxophone

SIBELIUS - Symphony No. 2, Op. 43

For tickets and other information: www.nabsco.org

Funding provided in part by a grant from the Rhode Island State Council of the Arts through an appropriation by the Rhode Island General Assembly, a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts, and private funders.

&

Mardi Gras Murder Mystery

Saturday, March 18th the Town of Rehoboth Events Committee hosted a murder mystery event at Five Bridge Inn. Young’s Catering provided several delicious hors d’oeuvres, while Rehoboth Baking delivered warm authentic beignets! The Cash bar was hosted by Professional Bartender Service.

Set in the Governor’s mansion in New Orleans right after Katrina, the event was enjoyed by 60 people. Many of our guests had character roles they had to maintain through the night with zombies, gangsters, club owners, voodoo queens, businessmen, socialites, lawyers and preachers rubbing shoulders and exchanging gossip! Their goal was to determine which of their fellow guests killed the Governor during a blackout! Awards were made to attendees who guessed the correct pair of murderers, the best actor and the best dressed!

The night was a big success and a great opportunity for townspeople to get together for a unique social experience! On behalf of the Rehoboth Events Committee, I have to thank all the businesses who helped us put this event on. Personally, my special thanks goes out to all the members of the Events Committee who really stepped up for this event!

Guests were dressed to impress at the Mardi Gras Murder Mystery

Events at the Seekonk American Legion Post 311

351 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA 02771

508-336-9822

Meat Raffles Start April 1st

Meat Raffles start Saturday, April 1st and continue until May 20th. The raffles take place each Saturday at 2 pm. There are 3 tables of steaks, chicken, seafood, TV and other prizes. 50/50 raffle. Kitchen opens at 1 pm.

Spring Psychic Fair – April 30th

We will be holding our Spring Psychic Fair on Sunday, 4/30/23 at the Seekonk American Legion located at 351 Fall River Ave, 2nd floor, Seekonk, MA. Admission is free. 15 minute readings are $20.00 each. There will also be several Vendors/Crafters. The hours are from 10 am to 3 pm. Proceeds to benefit the American Legion Auxiliary programs for our Veterans, community and children. For more information please call 508-336-9822 or send email to auxiliary311@yahoo.com.

Participating Readers at this event are: Beverly Sylvia – Psychic and Spirit Medium, Annalise Hajer - Spiritual Medium, Debbie Matthews - Spiritual Psychic Medium, Astrid Meijer– Akashic Records Reader, Georgette Biscari – Certificated Spirit/Psychic Medium over 30 years, Leila Walsh – Tarot Cards, Amber French – Reiki Master Teacher, Theta Healer, Self Love specialist, Angel Medium.

Participating Crafters/Vendors are: Emma Healey from Crystal Healing Arts selling crystals and handmade items, Quilted Table Runners by Lois, Always Accessorize by Donna, Captain Bob’s Sea Biscuits – delicious all natural do treats and Timeless Treasures – Handmade jewelry with semi-precious stones and misc pieces.

Music at the American Legion

Friday Night Bands – starts at 8 pm

Rhode Rage – 4/21

6L Camino – 5/12

• Rock A Blues – 5/5

• After Dark – 5/19

Ricky V: Wednesdays from 7 pm to closing

Hall Rental: 200 person capacity. Contact Bob Reed for information at 508-336-9822

Spring has Sprung!

Rehoboth Lions have some great events coming up!

Claim Boils are in full swing, held on the first Wednesday of the month. Spring 2023 dates include: April 5th, May 3, and June 7.

Our annual Chet Munroe Chicken Barbeque will be held Sunday, June 4th. Please reach out to Mike Salois at 508-222-2656 for more information.

Information for the 2023 Rehoboth Lions Golf Tournament will be available soon!

Citizen’s Recognition Night has returned - and renamed in the honor of our dearly missed Brother Lion, Russell Latham - who was instrumental in the planning - and Emceeing - the event for many years! This year, the Russell Latham Citizen’s Recognition Night will be held on Wednesday, May 17th at Hillside Country Club starting at 6:00 pm social hour and dinner at 7:00 pm. Tickets are $30.00. The event honors and celebrates individuals in the community whose service to Rehoboth has surpassed expectations. The awards are as follows:

• Joseph Deroche Outstanding Service Award - Presented to a person whose service to the town has served a wide range of the population and has required effort above and beyond that expected of the community general public

• Outstanding Youth - A young person whose personal qualities and achievements serve as models for other young people in the community

• Public Servant - Presented to an elected or appointed town official or municipal employee whose actions have surpassed the expectations of their position

• Raymond G. Dyer Humanitarian Award - A person who actions and deeds have fostered attitudes of good will and fairness to all people of the community

• Russell Latham Educator Of The Year - Presented to the professional educator in Rehoboth or DR HS whose dedication to the

Stephen E. Navega, PC - ATTORNEY AT LAW -

Administration of Estates

Probate of Wills Wills and Trusts

Health Care Proxies

Durable Powers of Attorney

447 Taunton Avenue

Seekonk, MA 02771

T 508.336.8120

F 508.336.3350

navegalaw@aol.com

Providing legal services since 1979. Experience matters.

students and whose accomplishments in the field of education serve as models to both active professionals and those entering the profession

• Heroism Award - Presented to the person who placed personal safety in jeopardy while aiding someone else in need

• Senior Citizen Of The Year - Presented to the senior citizen whose life and accomplishments have served as an inspiration to others

• Outstanding Achievement - A local resident may be recognized for individual accomplishment

• Randall P. Silveira Public Safety Award - A person of commitment, dedication and compassion while playing a key role in promoting public safety in The Town of Rehoboth

• Environmental Stewardship Award - In recognition of your significant contribution to, and long term stewardship and protection of Rehoboth’s landscape

• Community Service Award - Presented to an individual who has consistently been a leader in the community activities and service to others

• Good Neighbor Award - Presented in recognition of the many selfless acts to assist neighbors as well as community groups

If you wish to nominate an individual for one of the above awards, please include - along with the award name:

Nominee’s Name, Address, Phone Number

Nominator’s Signature, Address, Phone Number

On an additional page please explain your reasons for nominating this person. Please describe their achievements, supplying background information and the scope of their activities. These awards are open to those who live and/or work in Rehoboth, including all DR staff. Please Return All Nominations To The Address Below On Or Before Friday April 7, 2023

Rehoboth Lions Club / CO Steve Brasier

24 Park St, Rehoboth Ma 02769

Award recipients will be chosen by April 10, 2023, and notified by April 14, 2023. Please direct any calls to Mike Salois at 508-222-2656 or Steve Brasier at 508-505-1610

SEEKONK LIONS CLUB

Get Ready for the Best Fishing Derby Ever!!!!

We are finally here. The Seekonk Lions Club’s Eleventh Annual Doug Allan Memorial Fishing Tournament is just a few weeks away. With the best prizes and sponsors in the local community. How do we know that, well the subscribers of this publication rates the Seekonk Lions Fishing Derby #1. Along with many others as well! That fishing magazine in the store says, “George the Fishing Guy and all his buddies at the Lions Club put on the best derby for sure!”

We already knew that! Going on eleven years with a loyal following and new anglers signing up all the time. Local celebrities and dignitaries showing up to make sure we all get a look at their face. They all know where to be. Enjoying the action with the free donuts, hot chocolate and coffee telling fish stories to those who will listen.

The Seekonk Lions Club’s Eleventh Annual Doug Allan Memorial Fishing Tournament will be on Patriots Day Monday, April 17, 2023 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.

Remember this is eleven years going strong for the derby! Of course, our friends at the American Legion Post 311 have sponsored our banquet providing the hall for anglers to sit down and relax

while enjoying Chick-fil -A sandwiches with cookies, chips and drinks.

If you do not have a fishing pole that is OK. We will have poles available to those who are first timers’ or just want to try it. Different types of bait and accessories are available for everyone. Along with some of the most expert advice in the industry from George the Fishing Guy ©

“George the Fishing Guy”

We would like to see all our fellow anglers back this year and some new ones as well. 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. For derby updates, check our new website at https://www.seekonklions.club/ Remember there is no charge. Just come with your fishing poles, that special bait you may have, and catch some fish!

Rehoboth Garden Club April 2023

The Annual Meeting and luncheon of the Rehoboth Garden Club will be held at The Old Grist Mill Tavern on April 3, 2023 at 11 AM. Officers for 2023-2024 will be installed. They are Paul Nunes - President, Michael Seebeck - Vice President, Kelly McNaughton – Treasurer, Linda McHugh – Recording Secretary, Marjorie DeAngelis – Corresponding Secretary and Susan Asp – Newsletter Editor.

The Rehoboth Garden Club is accepting applications for the Carolyn “Pat” Knowles Scholarship for the 2023-2024 academic year. Qualified applicants must be entering college this fall or be returning college students. They must also be majoring in Floraculture, Horticulture, Agriculture, or a related Environmental Science. The application deadline is May 15, 2023 and will be awarded in December, 2023. For an application, email Linda Murphy at Ljmurphy47bell@yahoo.com or call Mary Louise Pacheco at 508-252-3975.

New members are always welcome! For club information please contact Judith Doty at 508-567-5276.

Save These Important Dates

In celebration of Arbor Day, we will be planting a tree at Francis Farm to show our appreciation for all the environmental benefits that trees provide. The community is invited to join us on Saturday, April 29, 2023 at 10:00 AM.

Our Annual Plant Sale will take place at the Francis Farm Pavilion on Saturday May 6, 2023 from 9 AM – 1 PM. Perennials from members’ gardens, annuals, herbs, vegetables, and hanging plants will be for sale. In collaboration with Bristol County Agricultural High School, we will have a large selection of plants that have been grown on their campus. All plant sale proceeds will be used to fund our scholarship, civic and educational programs.

If you ever feel overwhelmed by the invasive plants in your garden and yard, you should attend our May 15, 2023 meeting at Goff Hall at 6:30 PM. Our guest speaker, Sally Johnson, is a Certified Invasive Species Manager and owner of the native plant design firm, Ecoastal Design. Sally will discuss how to identify invasives and develop strategies to combat their spread. The community is invited to this informative event.

Seekonk Knights of Columbus Charity Yard Sale

Vendors / Sellers Wanted

Seekonk Knights of Columbus will host their annual charity yard sale on Saturday, May 20, 2023 - 8 am -12 pm Knights of Columbus Hall; 532 Arcade Ave., Seekonk, MA 02771

30 outdoor sites are available - $25 each Sites are 15 ft x 30 ft which will accommodate a vehicle and pop-up canopy

Last year was a sellout, so reserve your site now by calling 508.336.7952

Visit our Facebook page for more details. Rain date Sunday, May 21, 2023

Seekonk Portuguese Club Soccer Tournament

Over the past couple of months, the Seekonk Portuguese Club executive board have been working hard to bring back the annual Soccer tournament. The goal was to create unity not only between classmates but also the community. The Soccer Tournament took place Tuesday, March 28 at the Seekonk High School. We had a lot of friends, family, and community members come and support the tournament. Many teams went in as just being peers and over the span of their games came out with strong everlasting friendships. It was a learning opportunity to act as a team and as well to learn leadership skills for the entire team. For the many seniors graduating this year it was one of their last game as a team, win or lose many teams were just happy to play. We had a great turnout and we are hoping that with the years to come we get the Soccer Tournament to grow even further and have the Middle School participate with us

The East Providence/Seekonk Rotary Club

Rotary Club to hold Earth Day Cleanup

The East Providence/Seekonk Rotary Club will hold an Earth Day cleanup from 10:00 am to 11:00 am on Saturday, April 22, 2023 at the Veterans Memorial Parkway Overlook between 1st and Mercer Streets.

Volunteers are welcome and encouraged. Gloves, garbage bags and extended-reach trash grabbers will be provided.

“We are looking forward to doing our part to help clean up trash in our city,” states David Kent, co-chair of the Rotary Club’s service committee. “In celebration of Earth Day, we are creating this opportunity for club members, friends and new faces to come together to care for the environment. A clean Parkway will reflect positively on Bike Path users and anyone who drives to and from East Providence using Route 195.”

In case of rain, the event will be postponed and rescheduled to a future date to be determined.

RSVP to David Kent at top597@aol.com by April 15.

Dollars For Scholars Raffle

To support the Educational Trust Scholarship Program for high schoolers going on to college

The Rotary Club of East Providence/ Seekonk is holding its annual “Dollars For Scholars” raffle on April 24th with proceeds to support the Club’s Educational Trust scholarship program for high school students going on to an institution of higher learning.

The public is invited to purchase tickets at $20 each. Their names will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win $1,000 worth of scratch-off tickets. The drawing will be held in person on Monday, April 24, 2023 at Chelo’s, 911 Warren Avenue in East Providence at 6:30 pm, immediately following a cash bar reception at 5:30 pm.

Chartered in 1946, The Rotary Club of East Providence, RI/Seekonk, MA is a fellowship and service organization of “people of action” united worldwide and dedicated to the principle of “Service Above Self.” Members provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and

help build goodwill and peace in the world. In addition to organizing and participating in service projects to help the local community, Club members help to raise funds for local charities and initiatives.

The Rotary Club of East Providence/ Seekonk’s Educational Trust is an IRS-recognized 501 (c) 3 tax-exempt organization.

For more information on membership or to purchase tickets for the “Dollars For Scholars” raffle, please visit https://epseekonkrotary.org/ or contact Lori DiPersio at (401) 578-5317 or ldipersio24@gmail.com.

“Imagine Peace”

Essay Competition for East Providence and Seekonk Middle School Students

The East Providence/Seekonk Rotary Club announces a new essay competition for all middle school students who live or go to school in East Providence or Seekonk.

Students are asked to write a 400-600 word essay on the theme of “Imagine Peace.” A panel of Rotarians will review the essay submissions and select a winner from East Providence and Seekonk to each receive a cash prize of $250.

“This year’s Rotary International presidential theme is Imagine,” states Kathleen Shatraw, president of the East Providence/ Seekonk Rotary Club. “We decided to take that a step further for the purposes of this essay competition to ask students to imagine peace. Students can write about anything they want that’s related to this theme. In any context, there are so many creative ways to express it.”

Essays must be submitted via email to Kathy Shatraw at Navigator@aldersbridge. org by 5:00 pm on April 28th. Winners and two family members will be invited to attend a luncheon at 12:15 pm on May 8th at East Providence City Hall to have the opportunity to recite their essay aloud (optional) and receive their award.

Operation: Pollination

Calling all butterflies and bees!

The East Providence/Seekonk Rotary Club announces “Operation Pollination,” a new environmental-related project to help save butterflies and other important plant pollinator species.

We are seeking volunteers of all ages to serve as ‘butterflies’ and ‘bumblebees’ to pass out wildflower seed packets to paradegoers at the Riverside Memorial Day Parade on May 29, 2023.

Interested volunteers can make their own wings, or purchase them inexpensively online (suggested link: https://www.amazon. com/butterfly-wings/s?k=butterfly+wings)

“Operation Pollination is not only a way to make our communities prettier with colorful wildflowers, but also to help save our butterflies, bumblebees and other pollinators,” states Betty Galligan, past president of the

East Providence/Seekonk Rotary Club. “We’re encouraging everyone – including residents, businesses, school teachers, and organizations – throughout East Providence, Seekonk and beyond to participate in this project with us Rotarians. We’re hoping our project can plant the seeds of awareness about the plight of the monarch butterfly and the science of pollination, and that it will grow into an impactful project that we can repeat year after year. It’s one way that Rotary can continue to bring about positive change in our backyards and the world.”

To volunteer, contact Betty Galligan at 401-433-5965 or betty@newberrypr.com.

American Legion Post 302 Public Events

• Now serving Baked Scrod on Thursdays 4:00 till 7:00 P.M. & Fridays 4:00 – 8 PM. Take Outs are welcome – call in your order in early for pickup at 508-252-9079

• Tarot Card Tuesday – Every Tuesday 5:00 PM till when ever

• Sign up for our Mon-Tues & Wed Night Dart Leagues

• Mass Lottery - Play "Keno" "MegaMillion" "PowerBall"

• If you’re interested in playing in a Card League of Hi-Lo Jacks Monday Nights from September through November & April – June or… Wednesday nights September – December and start up again in January – April.

• Cribbage league plays on Wednesday nights from May-August. All games start at 7:00 PM @ $7.00 per game. e-mail speedyjake@aol. com or call #508-252-9079

Dates to Remember

• April 7th, 2023 - Friday - 6:30-10:00 P.M., Jim Powers Entertainment presents Old Time Rock “N” Roll, Classic Rock & County - – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/

• April 8th, 2023 – Saturday - 4:00 - 7:00 P.M. – FREE for VETERANS a PORTUGUESE DINNER SPECIAL - All Non Veterans $10.00 per plate - Raffling off $500.00 cash prize, a Donated Flat Screen TV, Donated 1.75 L bottles of Tanqueray, Vinos & iAlive gift cards and more… First call for RSVP for 120 plates – Patio is open and the Lounge – Cash Bar – you must e-mail speedyjake@aol.com or call / text this number ONLY -> 315-415-2277 – Portuguese Band with Portuguese music with some American music - https://www. facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/

• April 9th, 2023 – Sunday -7:30-10:30

Commercial & Industrial Paving • Residential Driveways

A.M. American Legion & Anawan Lions Monthly Breakfast, Second Sunday of every month $12.00 donation - All you can Eat! https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/

• April 14th, 2023 – Friday - 7:00-10:00

P.M. – Live music performed by Notorious Jones Entertainment with Classic Rock Music - No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100063368911454

• April 15th, 2022 - Saturday - 7:00-10:00

P.M., Ghost Cat Rodeo presents Classical Rock & County Music - No Cover Charge! – Food Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back and enjoy https://www.facebook.com/ ghostcatrodeo/

• April 21th, 2023 - Friday - 7:00-10:00 P.M., Greg Hodde’s Blue Reign, Classic Rock - –No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook. com/groups/657024961125913/

• April 22nd, – Saturday 7:00-10:00PM"Cabin Fever Party" public invited! With live music "3 Can Jam" from AttleboroLive Music Entertainment playing classic rock - No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www. facebook.com/3CANJAM/

• April 28th, 2023 – Friday - 7:00-8:00

P.M., Sons of the American Legion’s Monthly Meat Raffle followed by Karaoke - 8:00-11:00 P.M. – No Cover Charge!

- Food – Drinks – Singing, Dancing, we have an Electronic Dart Board to

have a Fun and a GREAT TIME! https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/

• April 28th, 2023 – Friday - 8:00-11:00 P.M. + – Live Karaoke performed by Jazzy Jill’s Karaoke Entertainment, Come on in and sing a song or two – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/

• May 5th, 2023 - Friday - 6:30-10:00 P.M., Jim Powers Entertainment presents Old Time Rock “N” Roll, Classic Rock & County – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/

• May 12th, 2023 – Friday - 7:00-10:00 P.M. – Live Music performed by Nororious Jones Entertainment with Classic Rock music - No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https:// www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063368911454

Hornbine School

We will be welcoming 13 classrooms back to spend a day in the past at the school this spring. There are many days open this spring and fall to have other CLASSES join us for a day. The school is open to public, private and home-schooled classes. The cost for a class to spend a day at the school is $150.00 For additional information contact Cathy Potter, School Director, at 508 252 3682 Rehoboth School Memories

Do you have a relative or neighbor who attended one of Rehoboth’s one room schools? Did you or someone you know attend one of the other closed schools in Rehoboth? If you have memories of your school days at North Rehoboth School, Pleasant Street School, or Anawan School, when it was a Junior High, we’d like to hear them.

Visit us during any of our OPEN HOUSES to tell us what you know about any of these closed Rehoboth Schools. We’d like to make a record of your school memories. The Hornbine School Museum will be open this Summer each 2nd and 4th Sunday from 2 PM – 4 PM. (June – September) We are located at 144 Hornbine Road in south east Rehoboth, MA.

Google “hornbineschool” to see our website. The Hornbine School Museum also has a Facebook page. Did you know that the old North Rehoboth School on Tremont Street (Now the Pinecroft School) has an active Facebook page? (Search = “North Rehoboth School Holds A Lifetime of Memories”) They have many contributions from students who attended during the 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s.

Hornbine School in the Spring by Dave Downs

492 Winthrop Street, Suite 5, Rehoboth, MA 02769

Clerk Magistrate Hearings

Clerk Magistrate hearings are an integral part of the Commonwealth’s criminal justice system. These are proceedings held by a Clerk Magistrate to determine whether probable cause exists to issue a criminal complaint against an individual. Clerk Magistrates are appointed by the Governor and play a vital role in our court system. They are not judges.

Clerk Magistrate hearings are conducted under the authority vested in Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 218, Section 35A. Pursuant to this section, a Clerk Magistrate has the power to issue a criminal complaint against a person accused of a crime. However, before doing so, the Clerk Magistrate must determine whether probable cause exists to believe that a crime has been committed.

Probable cause is a legal standard of proof. Probable cause exists when there is sufficient evidence to suggest that a crime has been committed and that the accused person is the one who committed the crime. This standard of proof is lower than the standard required for a criminal conviction, which is beyond a reasonable doubt.

Clerk Magistrate hearings are typically held for minor offenses such as traffic violations and misdemeanors. The purpose of the hearing is to give the accused person an opportunity to explain their side of the story and present evidence in their defense. The hearing is held in a private room and is not open to the public. Present during the hearing is each the clerk magistrate, a police officer, the accused person, and their attorney (if they have one). During the hearing, the Clerk Magistrate will ask questions of the police officer and accused person. The accused person is not required to testify but may do so if they wish. Witnesses may also testify, but they are only allowed to speak to the evidence of the case and cannot provide character references or other irrelevant information. Clerk Magistrate hearings typically last anywhere between 15 minutes to an hour.

At the conclusion of the hearing, the Clerk Magistrate determines whether probable cause exists. If the Clerk Magistrate determines there is insufficient evidence to support the issuance of a criminal complaint, the case will be dismissed. If the case is dismissed at the hearing, the accused person will not have a criminal record, and the case will not appear on any background checks. If probable cause does exist, it is likely a criminal complaint will be issued, thereby moving the case forward to District Court for arraignment. Importantly, Clerk Magistrate hearings are not criminal trials, and the accused person is not found guilty or not guilty at its conclusion.

Clerk Magistrate hearings are an important part of our criminal justice system in the Commonwealth, providing an opportunity for accused persons of certain offenses to present their story and resolve a case without going through lengthy and costly litigation.

News and Notes from Blanding Library

By Leslie Patterson

Fun and Games at the Library

CANDY LAND: Join us at the library for a life-sized version of the classic children’s game, Candy Land. From April 18 to 20, the downstairs level of the library will be transformed into a magical Candy Land. Make your way along the colorful path through the Lollipop Woods and the Peppermint Forest, where you may meet Lord Licorice and Queen Frostine. Come as a family, with friends, or individually to play your way to the finish. This event is free and all ages are welcome.

GAME DAY: On Friday April 21, Game Day returns to the Blanding from 11 to 2. Join us in Goff Hall for an afternoon of pizza, board games and bingo. We’ll have games out from 11-2, pizza at 12, and bingo at 1. Play one of the library’s games or bring a favorite from home to share. This event is free and all ages are welcome.

Library Road Trip

Take the Ultimate Library Road Trip by exploring libraries in the SAILS library network between April 18 and 29. Your SAILS library card works at them all so feel free to borrow something while you’re there. You can return the item to the Blanding. Many libraries will have special events or a treat for our Library Road Trippers during these two weeks. While you’re in the neighborhood seek out locally known treasures like the best ice cream or a Nimbus 2000 or the whale of a tale. You can find the map of participating SAILS libraries in Southeastern Massachusetts, local events and suggested local sights at www.malibraryroadtrip.com.

Mango Language Learning

Want to learn a new language? The Blanding is now offering Mango Language Learning free to Rehoboth library card holders. You can find out how on the library’s website (www.blandinglibrary. net) by clicking on an image on the home page to get started or call 508-252-4236 for more information. If you don’t already have a library card, stop by the Blanding to register.

Children’s Story Times

Now that it’s spring, our Story Walk has returned to the library’s front garden area. Walk along page-by-page to enjoy a picture book featuring a tortoise and a hare. This is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with friends and family. Stop inside the library for a Take & Make springtime craft. Thank you to our Friends of the Blanding Library for sponsoring both our Story Walk and Take & Make craft

Baby/Toddler Storytime will continue to meet Tuesday mornings at 10:30, featuring BIG books, songs, movement and more. This is geared for those children and infants under 3 years.

Special Story Hour: On Tuesday April 18 at 10:30, Miss Joyce will have a special guest. Yoga instructor Rebecca Mele will present “Little Yoga--Think Spring”. Rebecca has designed a program especially for little ones and their caregivers structured to be interactive and fun! No special mats or yoga gear required.

Story Hour for preschoolers (and siblings), meets Thursday mornings at 10:30. Several stories are read, followed by a storyrelated craft.

LEGOS & Earth Day

LEGOS will return on Saturday April 8 and May 13. Drop in between 11am and 2pm. We’ll supply the LEGOS; you supply the imagination. Young children may work with an adult.

The library celebrates Earth Day on Sat. April 22. Be kind to Mother Earth. Stop by the library between 11 and 3. There will be tables set up for special crafts and activities to celebrate Earth Day and Arbor Day. No registration is needed, but supplies may be limited.

Book Groups & More

The Blanding Library now has two book groups that meet monthly. The Blanding book club meets at 7 pm on the first Wednesday of the month. Call the library at 508-252-4236 for information on the book chosen for May. An afternoon book group meets the second Wednesday of the month from 3 to 4. The book for April 12 is the novel “The Light Between Oceans” by M.L. Stedman. For more information, call Desire Palmer at 508-717-1230.

Hank Coleman continues to lead the history discussion group on Wednesday mornings at 11. They are now exploring Reconstruction and the post-Civil War years. For more information, contact hjcoleman@comcast.net.

The Blanding Public Library, 124 Bay State Rd. in Rehoboth, is open from Monday through Thursday from 10 am to 8 p.m. and on Fridays and Saturdays from 10 to 4. Closed Sundays and holidays, including Mon. April 17 for Patriots Day. www.blandinglibrary.net or call 508-252-4236.

Seekonk Public Library

Historical Fiction Author Visit: Kerrin WIllis

Wednesday, April 12 at 6 PM

Whether you love local history or historical fiction, this program is for you! Kerrin Willis will read from her March 2023 release, Strange Arithmetic. Set in Taunton, MA between 1944 and 2015, Strange Arithmetic follows the stories of Maggie O’Callaghan and Niamh Reilly, two women who must fight against the strange arithmetic of the universe in order to live the lives they dream of having. This title is a fast paced, gripping historical fiction novel, filled with love, loss, and learning hard lessons. Copies of the book will be available for sale after the talk. For planning and to receive program updates please register in the online Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl. org/events. For more information, call Adult Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email library@seekonkpl.org.

Oscar Nominated Movie

Thursday, Apr 13 5:00PM

Skip the wait to borrow Oscar nominated movies by joining us! Come and watch this new DVD release for FREE at Seekonk Public Library: Cate Blanchett stars in this drama exploring the effects of power and fame on a female conductor composing her next symphony. Rated R, Runtime 2 hours 38 minutes.

Licensing prevents us from printing titles; call the library at 508-336-8230 ext. 56130 or email library@seekonkpl.org for the title and other details. Register in the calendar at seekonkpl.org/ events for planning purposes and to receive any program updates.

Copper Bookmarks Workshop

Thursday, April 20 at 6 PM

How would you rate your metalsmithing skills? Not sure what that is? Join us for a unique opportunity to blend metalwork and love of books together in the Copper Bookmarks Workshop. Taught by metalsmith Heather Beck of Heather Beck Designs, you will learn about the structure of copper and how to create drawings in metal with stamps while creating your own copper bookmark. You’ll learn how to use a sulphur dip to blacken the recessed areas on the project and make the texture really pop! All tools and supplies

are provided. Space is limited and a SAILS library card is required for registration. Register in the online Events Calendar at www. seekonkpl.org/events. For more information, call Adult Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email library@seekonkpl.org.

Nonfiction Book Club: Remember by Lisa Genova

Tuesday, April 25th at 6:00 PM

Join us for a lively discussion of Remember: The Science of Memory and the Art of Forgetting by Lisa Genova. New members are always welcome!

“Have you ever felt a crushing wave of panic when you can’t for the life of you remember the name of that actor in the movie you saw last week, or you walk into a room only to forget why you went there in the first place? For the vast majority of us, these examples of forgetting are completely normal. Why? Because while memory is amazing, it is far from perfect. Our brains aren’t designed to remember every name we hear, plan we make, or day we experience. In Remember, neuroscientist and acclaimed novelist Lisa Genova delves into how memories are made and how we retrieve them. You’ll learn whether forgotten memories are temporarily inaccessible or erased forever and why some memories are built to exist for only a few seconds (like a passcode) while others can last a lifetime (your wedding day). Once you understand the language of memory and how it functions, you can both vastly improve your ability to remember and feel less rattled when you inevitably forget.” -- Provided by publisher.

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

Gardening Tips for Seasons of Drought

Thursday, April 26 at 6 PM

Southern New England has experienced drought conditions off and on for decades, however, the last two years the drought has been severe. Outdoor watering bans and restrictions were placed in many communities including Seekonk. URI Master Gardener Alan Newton will lead this presentation to help gardeners to prepare for what is to come and what might be expected in terms of pests and disease brought on by the changing climate. This program is free and open to the public; for planning and to be notified of program updates please register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl. org/events. For more information, call Adult Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email library@seekonkpl.org.

Celebrate National Library Week

April 23-29, 2023

Seekonk Public Library encourages all community members to visit the library during National Library Week to explore all they have to offer.

Libraries are welcoming spaces that bring communities together for entertainment, education, and connection through book clubs, storytimes, movie nights, crafting classes, lectures, and more. Seekonk Public Library offers a wide array of programs, classes and resources, including their “Library of Things” collection.

And libraries play a critical role in the economic vitality of communities by providing internet and technology access, literacy skills, and support for job seekers, small businesses, and entrepreneurs.

Additionally, the library will be hosting “Food for Fines” throughout National Library Week. Overdue fines will be reduced by $1.00 per item donated. Canned or boxed goods and toiletries accepted. No perishable items or glass containers please. All donations will benefit Doorways Food Pantry.

For more information, visit the library’s website at www. seekonkpl.org.

Mark Your Calendar!

Nature Photography Contest Submissions May 1 – May 15

The Seekonk Public Library, in partnership with the Seekonk Land Conservation Trust, invite you to submit your digital photos of the beautiful, natural public spaces in town May 1st through May 15th. The goal of our fourth annual Nature Photography Contest is to digitally preserve Seekonk’s natural spaces and ecology in concert with existing efforts to conserve the town’s natural beauty. Selected photos will be uploaded to a public Flickr gallery to share views of Seekonk’s landscape and wildlife, creating a digital walking tour of the preserved spaces in town.

The Seekonk Nature Photography Contest is open to photographers of all ages, with categories for Children (through grade 5), Teens (grade 6-12), and Adults. Amateurs and professionals alike are welcome! Photos must be submitted electronically by using the entry form at seekonkpl.org/photo. Photos must be taken at one of the public spaces listed below, and feature images of wildlife, plant life, natural landscapes, weather, or any other aspect of nature (no pets or portraits): Qualified natural spaces for contest: Caratunk Wildlife Refuge, Cushing Conservation Area, Edna Martin Wildlife Refuge, Gammino Pond, Runnins River Trail, Seekonk Meadows

Nine finalists, three in each category, will receive a mounted print of their photo. Three winners, one from each category, will have their photo featured prominently in the online gallery and receive an Amazon Gift card (value $25).

Contest submissions may be uploaded at seekonkpl.org/photo between May 1 and May 15, 2023. Guest judges and public voting will follow, with a final reception planned for June.

Questions and inquiries about the photo contest can be emailed to: naturephotos@seekonkpl.org

What’s In? What’s Out? Recycling Program at Seekonk Public Library

Wednesday, May 3 at 6:30 PM

Come to this FREE, fun, family-friendly event to learn where our garbage and recycling really goes. Learn about What’s In and What’s Out and other recycling programs available for batteries, mattresses, textiles, and miscellaneous items. You’re guaranteed to learn something new!

Bill Kirchmann, Recycling Coordinator, and Lauren Sicard, Recycling Committee Member, will give a one-hour Trash Talk. All participants in the program will be entered to win a free set of reusable mesh produce bags plus lots of other fun giveaways to inspire you to reduce, reuse and recycle. This program is free and open to the public; for planning and to be notified of program updates please register in the Events Calendar at www. seekonkpl.org/events.

For more information, call (508) 3368230 or email library@seekonkpl.org.

Your SAILS Ultimate Library Road Trip Awaits this April

Visit your Local Libraries - See the Local Sights

Take the Ultimate Library Road Trip by exploring libraries in the SAILS Library Network between April 18 and 29. Your SAILS Library card works at all of them, so feel free to borrow something while you’re there. Many Libraries will have special events or a treat for our Library Road Trippers during these two weeks.

While you’re in the neighborhood, seek out locally known treasures like the best ice cream or a Nimbus 2000 or the whale of a tale.

Find the map of participating SAILS Libraries and events and suggested local sights at MALibraryRoadTrip.com or scan this QR code. Take your Ultimate Library Road Trip this spring!

#SAILSroadtrip

April 2023 in the Children’s Room Minecraft Education Club

Tuesdays, April 4, 11, 18 6:30 PM

It’s a Minecraft adventure! Utilizing Minecraft Education Edition, participants meet weekly via Zoom and join Minecraft worlds together. The focus is on teamwork to achieve building goals, and teaching one another how to navigate Minecraft. Children must each have their own device so they may download and install Minecraft Education Edition.

Introduction to Robotics Coding

Mondays, April 24 - May 22, 3:45 - 5:15 PM

Calling 5th graders! Seekonk library is offering an ‘Introduction to Robotics Coding’ using SPIKE Prime robots and Scratch-based Word Blocks language. The program will include instructor-led,

Thanks to the most recent advances in laser dentistry, many dental procedures can now be completed without the need for anesthetics, vibration or the disconcerting whine of the dental drill. Dr. Alan Merchanthouse employs just such technology in a relaxing country setting in Rehoboth. For the highest quality dental care – furnished by a highly trained and friendly staff of dental professionals – call (508) 252-6121 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Alan Merchanthouse.

hands-on activities designed to expose newcomers to the basics of coding a robot with motors and sensors. Activities will range from learning how to code basic movement and using various types of sensors, to autonomously completing physical challenges and obstacles. The program is limited to 5th grade students who have a sincere interest in coding/robotics. A commitment to all 5 weeks is required. The program will be led by Peter Ferlazzo, a technologist with a passion for how things work. Mr. Ferlazzo has a background in engineering and most of his career has been as an IT entrepreneur and consultant. Mr. Ferlazzo has mentored many students and he loves learning about and tinkering with technology!

School Vacation Week Specials

Dave Marchetti’s Animal Experiences

Wednesday, April 19, 2PM

Dave Marchetti will introduce a variety of unique and thoughtprovoking animals. Participants will meet interesting reptiles as well as amphibious and small mammals and there will be an opportunity to touch and hold many of the animals. Registration required.

Earth Day Cardboard Challenge

Thursday, April 20, 10 am-12 pm

In honor of Earth Day, let’s get creative with repurposed materials! Cardboard boxes, paper rolls, egg cartons, and much more! Will you create your own game? Build a rocket ship? A guitar? Bring your imagination and we’ll supply the rest! Grades K-5. Register.

STORYTIMES

Seekonk Library storytimes focus on talking, singing, reading, writing and playing- important principles for your child’s reading readiness. Please bring your SAILS library card so your child can browse and select books to take home. Siblings are always welcome.

Baby & Toddler Storytime

Monday, April 3, 10 and May 1, 8, 15 at 10 AM

Designed for children birth - 36 months old. Will include a book or two followed by music, fingerplays, movement and yes, even bubbles! No registration required.

Preschool Storytime

Wednesdays, April 5, 12 and May 3, 10, 17 at 9:30 AM

Books and activities for ages 3-5. Drop in.

Plant a Seed Storytime - Tuesday, April 18, 10 AM

Families with children ages 2 - 5 are invited to a special April storytime with stories about flowers, planting, rain and all other things spring! There will be music, singing and a sunflower seed planting activity, too. Registration is required.

Storytime on the Go! On-going in April

Stop in anytime to create a storytime experience at home with Storytime On The Go packets. Each packet will include 6 or more books to check out and an age-appropriate early literacy activity.

Family Book Bingo

Tuesday, May 2, 6-7 PM

Join us for a Family Book Bingo session in celebration of Children’s Book Week! Winners will be rewarded with their choice of books from our book prize table! Registration required.

Watercolor Class for Kids

Thursday, May 4, 4-6 PM

Children in grades 1-5 will learn painting techniques in this 2-hour class. Registration required.

Free Comic Book Day

Saturday, May 6

It’s Free Comic Book Day! Drop by the children’s room between 10 - 4 and pick up a free comic book. Assorted titles.

Dr. Gabriel Wassouf Dr. Alicia Tavares

Rehoboth Cadette Girl Scouts Troop 494 visited nutritionist Jessica Williams at her business, Cat Studios in Swansea, Ma and learned about healthy eating habits as part of their eating for beauty badge.Thank you Jessica for a terrific presentation and fun night!

Troop 494 volunteered to fill Easter Eggs for the Town Easter Egg Hunt.

Troops 494 and 333 volunteered to help at the Town Easter Egg Hunt at Francis Farm (*not pictured above- Reagan from troop 333)

Dighton Rehoboth Regional High School Receives National Recognition for Theatre Education Program

North Dighton, MA, April 4, 2023 – Dighton Rehoboth Regional High School has been honored with the distinction of being named a Premiere Community for Theatre Education for its outstanding commitment in the field. The Educational Theatre Association (EdTA) recognizes individual schools that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide theatre access and education to all students.

“Theater is an invaluable tool for developing creativity, communication skills, and emotional intelligence in students,” said Superintendent Bill Runey. “Our high school’s distinction of being named a Premiere Community for Theatre Education highlights the DR’s commitment to fostering the Performing Arts and sets a standard of excellence as we are seen as being in elite company.”

DRRHS Principal Gail DeCecco echoed Runey’s sentiments saying, “Ms. LaSalle’s knowledge, commitment, professionalism, and passion for the power of the performing arts are qualities she imparts to every student in the theatre program. We are blessed to have her as our Theatre Director. This award recognizes Ms. LaSalle, her students, and the entire DR community that supports our work.”

To qualify for the distinction, Dighton Rehoboth Regional High School answered detailed questions about funding, teacher development and evaluation, theatre class curriculum and participation, instruction time, facilities, and support for the theatre program. Responses were verified with official documentation and reviewed by the Educational Theatre Association.

Theatre teacher Ellen O’Reilly- LaSalle said,“ theatre education is vital to students because it develops the skills of creativity, analytical thinking, evaluation, and leadership. Our theatre students transfer these skills to other aspects of their lives.”

Research affirms the educational and social-emotional benefits of participating in school theatre. In one study, at-risk middle school students who engaged in an after-school musical theatre program demonstrated improved confidence, creativity, resiliency, responsibility, collaboration, and sense of community. Another study found that students who received drama-based instruction made better connections to the curricular content. 95% of school administrators believe that theatre experiences improve students’ overall academic skills.

Theatre Company President, Kylie Mirra said, “the theatre company does so much more for students than a regular drama club. Every year, it consistently gives students opportunities to gain experience in professional jobs, become award-winning playwrights, and advance to national and international rankings within the International Thespian Society.”

“EdTA’s vision is that every student will have access to theatre education taught by qualified educators as part of a well-rounded education,” said Chief Content Officer Allison Dolan. “We’re proud to honor Dighton Rehoboth Regional High School for helping to achieve that vision.”

The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School Theatre Company stages a play, a musical, two one- act plays, and a student written and directed playwriting festival. We offer both beginning and advanced honors level theatre classes. Guest artists working in theatre visit to conduct master workshops. Our students have competed in and won Trinity Rep’s Write Here Write Now playwriting contest. We are home to The International Thespian Society Troupe 8193, which is an honor society that recognizes student achievement in theatre. Our students’ work appears on the National Core Art Standards website as an exemplar for the country in the category of Advanced Acting. Many of our students study theatre in college and go on to work professionally in the field.

About the Educational Theatre Association

The Educational Theatre Association, home to the Educational Theatre Foundation and International Thespian Society, is an international nonprofit whose mission is shaping lives through theatre education. The foundation provides essential financial support to enhance theatre education, expand access, and foster racial equality. The International Thespian Society, an honor society active in nearly 5,000 schools, has inducted 2.4 million students since 1929. Visit schooltheatre.org to learn how EdTA honors students, supports teachers, and influences public opinion that theatre education is essential for building life skills.

GFWC Greater Taunton Woman’s Club Scholarship Applications

The GFWC Greater Taunton Woman’s Club has shared their scholarship application with public high schools from local cities and towns their membership represent. These include Taunton, Assonet, Berkley, Brockton, Raynham, Rehoboth, Dighton, Norton, Freetown and Lakeville. The scholarship is open to entering college/university freshman, sophomore, juniors, seniors and graduate students. It can also include students entering technical and community college programs. One can attain a copy of the application and requirements from local high school guidance counselors and our webpage www.gfwcgreatertauntonwomen.org. The deadline is April 15, 2023.

St. Luke’s School Announces

Honor Roll

The following Rehoboth residents have achieved Honor Roll status at St. Luke’s School in Barrington for the recently completed trimester. Grade 6: First Honors: Chloe Ruehrwein. Second Honors: Max Buckley. Grade 7: Second Honors: Joseph Ptaszek, Max Buckley. Grade 8: Second Honors: Luke Moitoso.

Beckwith Middle School News

Andria Duffy, a 5th Grade Student at Beckwith Middle School, was selected as a finalist for CAMP TV’s Season 4 Student Reader Contest. As a finalist, Andria received a prize and will have an opportunity to participate in a Kids Reading Across Rhode Island segment, which will air on Rhode Island PBS. In addition, she may be selected to win a prize package including a $100 gift card and will be filmed by Rhode Island PBS production staff reading a book for the “Tell Me A Story” segment of CAMP TV, a national program airing this summer.

On March 24th, the following members of the Beckwith Middle School Math Team traveled to Westport where they competed against seven other Massasoit League schools in the winter Math Meet: Jacob Bourgoin, Tayla Duarte, Avery Grage, James Holt, Derek Howland, Dylan Howland, Allison Mandeville, Charlotte Marr, Kristiyana Petrova, Cadence Pham, Elijah Polychronis, and Madelyn Simonds. Jacob Bourgoin had the highest individual score for Beckwith. Avery Grage, James Holt, Cadence Pham and Elijah Polychronis all had Beckwith’s second highest scores. Beckwith’s Math Team Advisor is Mrs. Pamela Zalk.

Beckwith Middle School Math Team

At left, finalist Andria Duffy

Summer Camp!

Local Instructor Creates Program to Educate and Empower Youth

Instructor and advocate Bill Dalpe did not intend to go down the road he did initially. Dalpe wanted to bring a social awareness program to a local school, and after getting stonewalled by an administrator, he realized he needed to take matters into his own hands. The educator, with decades of experience, found himself authoring his own book on personal safety and responsibility for young teens, After The Bell Rings. Dalpe is pleased to announce that he’s transitioned the lessons from his book into a full-fledged class.

The class and accompanying book focuses on teaching tweens and young teens awareness techniques to help keep them safe. While the information is not a magic talisman, it does equip youth with the knowledge they need to be aware of situations, relationships, and how to respond to potentially dangerous dynamics. The program is designed to be reinforced by parents or guardians who review the material with their children.

Utilizing a system he developed called the Trust Ring™, Dalpe categorizes relationships and situations based on how well an individual knows or is acquainted with another. The Trust Ring™

uses colors in relation to levels of trust, similar to the color codes of awareness developed by USMC Colonial Jeff Cooper. Dalpe says in his seminars that youth can immediately relate to the different levels of trust they should put into others utilizing the color-coded trust ring.

The book and class both use scenario-based lessons to inspire learning. After the core information is presented, students get to navigate through the events. Adults are invited to review the lessons with the student and draw connections from their own lives as examples.

Dalpe has been working on perfecting the lessons that he teaches in his book and has finally rolled out an educational program to qualify others in being able to deliver his material. Prospective instructors would be given all materials needed, including an electronic slideshow to deliver the content.

To be eligible for consideration as an instructor, candidates must already have established ties with bona fide youth organizations or dynamics. Scout leaders, Sunday school teachers, educators, youth group volunteers, etc., are all examples of eligible persons. Dalpe wants to ensure that his message is delivered by already credible messengers who have established positive reports with youth.

In discussing the book and program with Dalpe, his intention is to empower youth. He said of the system, “It's just like the tagline to my book, to give kids the tools they need to stay safe.” Dalpe continued, “There comes a point when parents, they are not going to be around their kids, whether it be at a friend's house, the ballfield, scouts, and kids need to know this base core knowledge for their own personal safety.” Dalpe says that kids need “to really own it.”

For people interested in learning more about the book and the program, they can visit an information page on the web at atbrbook. com. Dalpe also invites interested parties to contact him to discuss becoming an instructor or having a class scheduled via email at atbrbook@gmail.com or on the telephone at 508-677-7219.

Girl Scouts of SNE Partners with Girls on the Run Rhode Island for April Vacation Camp!

Girl Scouts of Southeastern New England (GSSNE) is excited to partner with Girls on the Run Rhode Island for April vacation camp!

Camp Girls on the Run with GSSNE will run Monday, April 10 to Friday, April 14 from 9am-4pm each day and is open to Girl Scout members and non-members in grades K-5. April vacation camp will take place at the GSSNE office in Warwick, RI. The first 3.5 hours will start with the Girls on the Run Rhode Island curriculum including guided games, crafts, storytelling, and physical activity. The day will progress into Girl Scout lead activities in the afternoon, which will follow a similar theme and build in badge earning opportunities.

Girl Scout camp inspires curiosity, discovery, and problemsolving, all while helping campers to develop courage and teamwork skills. Camp GOTR by Girls on the Run provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity for all girl-identifying youth to develop self-confidence and learn life skills they can use now and as they grow. Under the leadership of Girls on the Run coaches and Girl Scout volunteers, girls of all abilities will enjoy building friendships and gaining new tools that will help them make healthy social, emotional, and physical choices. Campers will build friendships through interactive games, enjoy physical activities, and express creativity through arts and crafts and storytelling.

SPOTLIGHT ON SPORTS

Metrowest Basketball Championship

Beckwith Middle School Unified Basketball Team Hosts Jamboree

For their first season of Metrowest Travel Basketball our youngest lady hoopers in Seekonk came away with a tournament championship victory over Northboro 22-14 on March 12, 2023. The game started slow for Seekonk with Northboro jumping out to an early lead and holding a 10-6 edge at halftime at the Dana Barros center in Stoughton, MA. A huge 3rd quarter for the Seekonk Warriors paced them to a lead they would never give back, heading into the final frame up 16-12. Nicole Mal exploded for a season high 14 points in the championship game. Defense was this teams calling card all year long and the key to victory came from a collective team defensive effort that was led by Stella Solas who matched up exclusively on the leading scorer for Northboro.

This season started back in September with preseason practices throughout the fall sports season. There were early signs that these girls were in for a special year when they attended a jamboree in early November and returned from that experience unbeaten. (40) The girls finished the season with 16 wins and 4 losses. The girls shared the basketball with 6 different players leading the team in scoring over the course of the 20 games played. All told the 3rd Grade Lady Warriors had every single player get into the score book this season.

This group is fortunate to have supportive parents with several volunteering to help out over the course of the 6 month long season. We would like to thank Josean Vega, Kevin Firth, Steve Cetenich, T.J. Sorrentine, and Jay Raposo for assisting in various ways with the girls this season. Without a supportive community, specifically the Seekonk Youth Basketball association along with travel basketball coordinator Darren DaLuz, seasons like this are not possible in this town.

Kurt McLoud – Coach

On March 15th, the Beckwith Middle School Unified Basketball Team hosted the 3rd annual Massasoit League Jamboree at Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School. Berkley, Norton, Seekonk and Somerset along with our own Beckwith Believers competed against each other in this Special Olympics sponsored event. Friendships were made and baskets were scored as 100 participants played an afternoon style of unified basketball where the score was less important than the camaraderie formed by teammates and opponents alike.

Roster: Nicole Mal #1, Ava Hamilton #2, Bentley Cetenich #4, Jaylen Vega #10, Stella Sorrentine #11, Stella Solas #12, Madelyn McLoud #13, Charlotte Wertz #23, Harper Firth #24, Miley Raposo #35

Beckwith Middle School Unified Basketball Team

Rehoboth Council on Aging

Francis Hall

27 Francis Farm Road, Rehoboth

Phone 508-252-3372

Fax 508-252-4716

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

The COA will be closed April 7th & 17th

Join Our Walking Club

Mon-Wed- Fri @ 10:00

Walking Club will now start @ 9:00 on Wednesday April 19th through the warmer weather.

Lace up your sneakers and get ready for the Walk Massachusetts Challenge!

Come & Join Us for our NEW Activities:

• Combined Yoga, Acrylic Painting Class , Drums Alive, Hi-Low Jack, Bocce, Cornhole Toss, Paper Crafting Class, Crafty Fun Classes, Watercolor Class

• Stop in and have a cup of coffee and a donut Wednesday mornings @ 9:00.

• We have added a Paper Crafting Class and a Jewelry Making. We can always use extra supplies. Scrapbooking, Cricut Supplies, die cuts, embossing folders, Jewelry making supplies.

• We are in need of cotton, flannel, and fleece fabric for sewing projects.We are accepting yarn donations for hats & blankets

ACTIVITIES

Mondays

• 9-11 Cribbage

• 10:00 Walking Club NEW start time

• 10:00 Bocce

• 10:00 Cornhole Toss

• Noon Gert’s Café ~ Limited seating ~ $3.00 Please call to reserve a seat 508252-3372

Tuesdays

• 9:00 Zumba $3.00

• 10:00-Noon Jewelry Making Class (NEW) $5.00 Gabbi instructor

• 10:00 Bocce

• 10:00 Cornhole Toss

• 10:00 Ladies Sewing & Quilting

• 1:00 Bocce & Cornhole Toss

• 1:00 Hi-Lo Jack

• 1:00- 3:00 Crafty Fun Classes (NEW) $5.00 taught by Daisy Gilmore

Wednesdays

• 10:00 Walking Club - NEW start time starts April 19th @ 9:00

• 9:00 Coffee & Donuts

• 10:00 Bocce

• 10:00 Cornhole Toss

• 10:00-2:00 Nails by Gabbi call the COA for an appointment

• 12:30 – 1:30 Coffee/ Dessert (New Time)

• 1:00-3:00 Acrylic Painting Class $5.00-Taught by Daisy Gilmore

Thursday

• 9:00 Tai Chi

• 10:00 Combined Yoga (NEW) - Use a chair or a mat $3.00

• 10:00 Ladies Knitting, Crochet, & Tea

• 12:00 Drums Alive $3.00

• 1:00 Bocce

• 1:00 Cornhole Toss

• 1:00-3:00 Paper Crafting Class includes Card Making, Stamping, etc. (FREE) Taught by Gabbi Silvia

• 1:00-3:00 Watercolor Class $5.00Taught by Daisy Gilmore.

Friday

• 9:00 Men’s Coffee

• 10:00 Walking Club

• 10:00 Bocce

• 10:00 Cornhole Toss

Social Services Department

Bradley Marshall Outreach/SHINE/ Housing Coordinator 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.

If you are at the 200% Federal Poverty level (or $2,430 single family/person) you may qualify for other assistive programs, therefore give the office a call to review possible programs you may be able to receive. Remember you have paid into these federal/ state programs through out your working life so now’s the time to see if your taxes can help you during these inflation times.

Fuel applications to Citizens for Citizens are still being accepted for this year under the LIHEP heating year 2022-2023. We have the new application forms here, in the office, for you to apply, which can provide you benefits that would be from $900 and up for the year. You can apply for benefits no matter if you own, rent, or lease you home if you are below the 200% FPL or 60% of the estimated state income ($42,411 single person) you should apply. Those that do go on fuel assistance will be able to get other benefits such as discounts toward your electric bill

So, the benefits a quite a lot, especially help with the cost of fuel and bring down your electric bill by 30% and placing you in a restricted category so if you do fall behind on your electric bill, they cannot cut your power. So, call and make an appointment and we will take care of all the necessary reporting for you. Re-certification forms have been sent for those on the Fuel Assistance Program from pervious years. You should have received them by now. If you did not receive one call CFC at 508-679-0041 or call this office. When you receive your form call this office to assist you with ensuring you get the Highest benefit possible.

Also, if you are having difficulty with fuel and you are approaching a ¼ tank please call the office and we will attempt to assist you in getting up to 100 gallons.

Questions or needs on Housing should also be directed to this office. We can assist you in the application process for State housing, the voucher program, and review for affordable housing that is open for low or rent based income rentals

Applications for Food (SNAP benefits) assistance can be process at any time, so please call the office on how we can help you with your nutrition needs and save costs on your food bill.

Special Notification for those Receiving SNAP Benefits

As of March 2,2023, the extra support provided by the COVID emergency relief funds will end, when officials roll back pandemic-era increases to SNAP benefits. The program, administered by the Department of Agriculture, provides monthly stipends to people with low incomes to spend on food. Before 2020, those payments averaged a little more than $200 and were hiked by a minimum of $95 during the pandemic. Officials estimate families will see a 30% to 40% decrease in SNAP payments as emergency allotments tied to the public health emergency is halted. If you are aged 60 or older or disabled it is possible that we can help retain the level of your benefits, some benefit calculation by DTA may make an extreme drop in these benefits. if you wish to have it reviewed or appealed, please call this office or the Department of Transitional Service (DTA) Senior Assistance line for DTA is (833-712-8027)

Medicaid Changes that will affect all recipients on these programs Medicaid Wind Down Nationwide

In March 2020, the federal government declared a public health emergency (PHE) due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In response to the PHE and consistent with federal con-

tinuous coverage requirements, MassHealth put protections in place that prevented members’ MassHealth coverage ending during the COVID-19 emergency. The declaration of the pandemic emergency has been in total, ended as of May 11th and many programs will be ended as of April 1, 2023.

The federal government has decided to end the continuous coverage requirements. In response to this decision, MassHealth will return to our standard annual eligibility renewal processes. Starting April 1, 2023, all current MassHealth members will need to renew their health coverage to ensure they still qualify for their current benefit. These renewals will take place over the next 12 months.

In order to reduce the number of qualified members that lose their coverage, MassHealth is working with the Massachusetts Health Connector, Health Care For All, and other partners to make sure members know how to renew their coverage and are aware of other affordable health coverage options if needed.

The renewals will done over a period of time starting this month April 1, 2023 to April 1, 2024. During this time period you may receive a letter or a big blue envelope.

Please review all letters and forms you receive from MassHealth to insure you keep your information up to date with MassHealth and not be removed from the program

Some members will receive letter stating they have been automatically reviewed and will continue on whatever program you have, as MassHealth has be able to match your information against state and federal data. Therefore, there will be no action need to be done by you.

Some will receive a letter requesting and up date from you. It will begin as – MassHealth has received information from a trusted source: followed by what they need and the telephone number (800) 841-2900 to call. This is not a scam please follow through to maintain your MassHealth.

Some will receive a big “BLUE” envelope. Inside is the MassHealth Renewal application that needs to be filled out and copies of all documents requested and then sent to MassHealth office as directed. DO NOT IGNORE THIS APPLICTION if you wish to continue your coverage under MassHealth. If you need assistance with the application and getting it processed and sent to MassHealth call either this office – Bradley Marshall – SHINE (508)252-3372 or MassHealth customer service at (844) 365-1841.

Eventually all MassHealth recipients at one time or another over the course of being on MassHealth for at least a year will receive the renewal notice and form to be done as required by both state and federal rules.

Additional questions maybe directed to Bradley Marshall (Outreach/SHINE/Housing Coordinator) at (508) 252-3372.

Rehoboth Public Health Nurse

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

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

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

• Wellness Clinic Wednesday

• Podiatry Clinic: Last Thursday of the month

• Blood Pressures & Glucose Screenings:: Please contact the Public Health Nurse Geri Hamel 508-252-3127 for more information.

Meals on Wheels

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

Rehoboth Council on Aging

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

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

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

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

• Can connect to their peers and community

• Can foster inter-generational relationships and shared activities

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

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

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

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

The Rehoboth Council on Aging shall:

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

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

Seekonk Human Services

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

Reverse Mortgages

Tuesday, April 11, 2023 at 1:00pm

This activity is all about Reverse Mortgages. A FREE seminar for homeowners 62 years and older. Topics discussed:

• What is a reverse mortgage?

• Who is eligible?

• How much can someone receive?

• What are some of the benefits?

• What are the tax free distribution options?

• How is the reverse mortgage paid?

East Coast Capital has a staff of dedicated professionals focused solely on reverse mortgages. They have the expertise to help you make an informed decision about which program is right for you. E-mail address is: mkennedy@eastcoastcap.com. Preregistration is required by calling 508-336-8772.

Tommy Rull

Wed, April 19, 2023 at 1:00pm

Tommy Rull singer/entertainer will be performing his show, “A Musical Journey Through The Years.” Mr. Rull has been performing his act for the last several years. He has sung at private parties, corporate events, country clubs, restaurants and countless senior centers. He has entertained thousands of seniors and “boomers” throughout Massachusetts. He takes his audience on a musical journey through time singing the songs of many great and well-known entertainers...songs of Neil Diamond, Sinatra, Elvis, Roy Orbison, Paul Anka, Barry Manilow, Cole Porter, Harry Belafonte, Willy Nelson, Kenny Rogers, Hank Williams, Anne Murry and the list goes on and on. Many seniors at his performances sing along to familiar songs that bring back fond memories to them and a number get up and dance with each other, staff members, and volunteers. Coffee and pastry will be available. To sign up for this activity please call the office at 508-336-8772. *This program is funded by the Seekonk Cultural Council.

Healthy Aging

Lunch & Learn

Wed, April 26, 2023 at 11:30am

Nutritionist, Dawn DiMarco, will be here from Bristol Elder Services to talk about foods and tips for healthy aging! She will discuss components of a healthy diet and how to make a balanced plate that benefits the body during aging. She also will be speaking about all the actions that can be taken to help manage health, live as inde-

pendently as possible, and maintain a great quality of life as you age. For all who attend this program there will be a meal consisting of spaghetti and meatballs, green beans, dinner roll, cookies, and Crystal Light. Preregistration is required for this program by calling 508-336-8772.

Silver Tea

Wed, May 3, 2023 @ 12 noon

You are cordially invited to attend a Silver Tea Honoring women in Seekonk Age 75 and older. The tea will be held at Seekonk Human Services, 540 Arcade Avenue

Hosted by Seekonk Human Services & Funded by Friends of Friends Community Services Inc. Limited seating available. RSVP 508-336-8772 by April 21, 2023

*Seekonk Residents Only*

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 applications accepted November 1, 2022 until April 30, 2023.

Income Guidelines: Maximum income for 1 person is $42,411, for 2 people is $55,461, for 3 people is $68,511, and for 4 people is $81,561

“Canasta”

Mondays @ 1:00pm

Are you interested in playing or learning to play Canasta? Please call our office at 508-336-8772 if you are interested in participating.

Arts & Crafts

Mondays in April at 12:30pm

Preregistration is required for this class. The cost for this class is $5 for Seekonk residents and $7 for Non-Seekonk residents. All classes have limited availability. **Art Work subject to change.

Projects for April 10th & 24th, are to be determined. If you would like to know what the Arts & Crafts will be for this month please call 508-336-8772

Podiatry Clinic

Wed, April 12th 10:00am - 2:30pm

Dr. Lechan provides monthly Podiatry Clinics. An appointment is required. Items needed are insurance cards with your primary doctor’s name, date of last doctor’s

visit, summary of last visit, and list of medications. *Please check with your insurance regarding co-pays.

Blood Pressure & Glucose Clinic

Wed, April 19th 9:00am - 11:00am

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

Women’s Lunch

Wed, April 19, 2023 @ 11:30am

Toti’s on Taunton Avenue, in Seekonk, MA

The Women’s lunch group meets every 3rd Wednesday of the month at 11:30am. Everything is dutch treat. If you are interested in joining for good food and good conversation, while supporting our local restaurants, please call Seekonk Human Services at 508-336-8772.

Beginner Sign Language

Wednesday, April 19, 2023

No class May 10th or June 14th

A new 10-week session of sign language will begin Wednesday, April 19, 2023. If you are interested in this beginner class, please call Seekonk Human Services at 508-3368772 to register.

Let’s Learn Together!

Tuesday, April 25, 2023 @ 2:00pm

“All About YouTube ”

If you go to YouTube often for videos, you can save your favorites, create playlists and even upload your own videos using your Google (or Gmail) account. Join Librarian Michelle Gario in this 90 minute session for an introduction to using YouTube features. You must bring your Gmail login I.D. and password for this program. Bring your own tablet, phone, or laptop; please make sure your device is fully charged. Contact the Seekonk Human Services to preregister for this at: 508-336-8772.

Outdoor Activities This May Bocce, Horseshoes & Cornhole

All activities will be played at 11:00am. Bocce will be on Mondays, Horseshoes on Tuesdays, and Cornhole on Wednesdays. Preregistration is required by calling our office at 508-336-8772. Activities are weather dependent.

The Texas Tenors Live in Concert

Tuesday, June 20, 2023

Price: $119.00 Per Person

Danversport Yacht Club-Danvers, MA

Since appearing on America’s Got Talent in 2009, The Texas Tenors have performed over 1,300 concerts, released 4 Studio Albums, 2 PBS Specials, 4 DVD’s, multiple singles and a children’s book that have earned them impressive recognition including 3 Emmy Awards. Their latest albums “Rise” and “A Collection of Broadway & American Classics” both debuted at #1 on the charts making them Billboard Magazine’s #10 Classical Crossover Artist in the World.

These classically-trained, versatile tenors have performed around the world including headline shows in Las Vegas, China, and a 24-city tour in the United Kingdom. The Texas Tenors were honored to be included among the top 50 acts in the world and the only vocal group from the United States invited to compete on NBC’s 2019 series America’s Got Talent: The Champions. Best of Times Travel is proud to bring this national treasure to their stage. Don’t Miss Out! Seats are limited! If you are interested please call 508-336-8772.

Plated Luncheon Meal Choice: Stuffed Breast of Chicken or Baked Scrod. Also Included: Salad, Vegetables, Breads, Dessert, Coffee/Tea.

Price includes Transportation, Plated Luncheon, Meal Tax & Gratuity, and Show Ticket. Register by May 20th to secure your spot! Trip must be paid for in full at time of sign up, no refunds for cancellations less than 14 days.

Future Activities—More information to come

White Cross Pharmacy

Tuesday, May 16, 2023 at 11:00am

White Cross Pharmacy is home of the med packs. All of your medication arrives on time in easy to open packaging that is clearly labeled with the date and time medications should be taken. This helps take the guess work out of organizing your pills. The best part of this is there is no additional cost to you! Coffee and pastry will be served.

Spring Bells

Wed, May 17, 2023 at 11:30am

The Southcoast Ringers have been together for several years. What started out as a handbell class turned into a community handbell group. They are from all over the Southcoast area in Massachusetts. They rehearse weekly in Berkley and hold concerts in the spring and during the Christmas Season. This spring their concert is “Bells Throughout the Year” with songs for each month. You will also see that handbell ring-

ing is as much visual as it is listening to music. They all enjoy ringing and sharing their love of handbells. Coffee and pastry will be served.

JUMPIN’ JUBA - Steve Hurl

Wed, May 24, 2023 at 12:30pm

Steve Hurl is a storyteller? A blues man? A noted guitar stylist? A musical pilgrim? Yeah, sure, why not? He has been called all of the above. If Steve was just one of those, he’d be bored. But by moving through a wide variety of influences, he has managed to come up with a number of original songs that respect the hand-made, real-time, roots music that inspires him in the first place. Jumpin’ Juba typically plays over 50 concerts each year, in public parks, libraries, senior centers, and in commercial space: fairs, hotels, farms, assisted living facilities. He has been continuously leading and performing with this band since 1999. Some of their shows feature a trio (guitars, bass, drums, vocal) others a very full-sounding duo (guitars, vocal, bass, with custom drum programs). They are a family-friendly, sensitive to cultural issues, and not loud. Coffee and pastry will be available. *This program is funded by the Seekonk Cultural Council.

Computer Stations

Computer access is now available at Seekonk Human Services. If you’re without a computer at home but you need to access one, we may be able to help. Residents are welcome to use our laptops to surf the internet and check emails etc. For more information, or to check for availability, please call 508-336-8772.

Library Homebound Delivery

Residents of Seekonk who are homebound due to physical limitations or illnesses that are long term or temporary are able to enjoy library materials through our Homebound Delivery Service.

Seekonk Public Library’s Homebound Delivery Service is for residents who have

no one in their household to go to the library for them. Adult Services staff will coordinate deliveries and can work with participants to choose materials that meet their needs and interests. Volunteers will deliver the materials to the participant’s door contact-free and return borrowed materials to the library. For more information, call Adult Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email library@ seekonkpl.org.

Sharps Disposal

Did you know that as of July 1, 2012 the Commonwealth banned the practice of disposal of needles, syringes and lancets (sharps) into your household trash? The Seekonk Board of Health has a Sharps Disposal program. This program is for Seekonk residents only. Those who use this program pay for the program. The fee

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is $9.00, which includes a one-gallon sharps container and the disposal of that container. Any questions please contact the Board of Health 508-336-2950.

Activities and Programs

Mondays

• Chair Yoga 10am

• Canasta 11:30am

• Arts & Crafts 12:30pm

• Strength & Cardio 1pm

• Zoom BINGO 1:30pm

Tuesdays

• Drums Alive 9am

• Hi Lo Jack 1pm

• Zoom Trivia 12:30pm

Wednesdays

• Drums Alive 9:30am

• Belly Dancing 11:00am

• Mahjong 1pm

• Zoom Coffee Chat 1:30pm

Thursdays

• Chair Yoga 10am

• BINGO 1pm

Fridays

• Dance Cardio 9:15am

• Tai Chi 10:30am

*All activities are subject to pre-registration

Community Questions for our Police Liaison

Officer Maria Vicenzo is welcoming community questions to be answered. Questions can be mailed to the center, dropped off in person, or placed in our lock box that is attached to the building at the entrance. We will post answers to the questions in the monthly newsletter and on our Facebook page, if requested. If you prefer to be called, please leave your contact information and we will be in contact.

Email List

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

Nutritional Meals To Go Tues/Wed/Thurs

Seekonk Human Services will be working with Bristol Elder Services to provide nutritional meals for lunch on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays 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. Suggested donation of $2.25 per meal which will be collected at the time of pickup. Pick up will be between 11am - 12pm. April’s menu is available on our Facebook Page and by calling our office at 508-336-8772.

Veterans’ Corner Memorial Day 2023

The Seekonk Department of Veterans Services and Seekonk Veterans Council will once again run the Seekonk Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony on Saturday, May 27th. The parade will form at Seekonk High School (261 Arcade Avenue) at 9:00am and stepping off at 10:00. The parade route is the same as in past years, Arcade Avenue turning right onto Newman Avenue and ending at Hurley Middle School (650 Newman Avenue).

Directly following the parade is the ceremony, held at the Seekonk Veterans Memorial Park (410 Newman Avenue). After the ceremony, the Veterans Council will sponsor lunch at American Legion Post 311 (351 Fall River Avenue) which will be hamburgers and hot dogs. Lunch will start around noontime.

Invitations have been sent out to previous parade and ceremony participants. Please let me know if you haven’t heard from us and want to take part in this year’s events. We are also actively looking for new parade participants, if interested, please contact me either by email or phone (below).

James LaFlame

Seekonk Veterans Services Officer Office 508-336-2940

Email: jlaflame@seekonk-ma.gov

The center is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 8:30am - 4:30pm, Wednesday 8:30am - 5:30pm and Friday 8:30am12:00pm. Come and enjoy the activities and companionship at your center.

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

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& Garden Spring Home

Top Five Invasive Plants in Our Area

From Rehoboth Land Trust

-- Written by Abby McWain

“What do you think these are?”

It was our first spring in our new home. My husband and I were enjoying a walk around the yard, when we came across a patch that was full of pink spear-shaped sprouts about an inch tall. Encircled by a wooden frame, they were clearly meant to be there, so we left the question unanswered and moved on, eager for more discoveries.

A month later, those tiny pink sprouts had become giants, with most stalks taller than my husband! We were fascinated by this bamboo-like plant. We loved it as much as the honeysuckle, hydrangeas, raspberries, daffodils, and other surprises our new home revealed as the seasons changed.

Within a few years, however, we started noticing our beloved “bamboo” was not being a good neighbor. Not only had it spread into the raspberry patch and crowded out

the hydrangeas, but it had also emerged along the edge of the woods and was slowly creeping into the yard.

There were other miscreant flora as well. A twining vine, whose orange berries fed the birds in the fall and winter, was choking its host tree like a boa constrictor. And that honeysuckle? It was running rampant all along our driveway, overtaking the daffodils.

A bit of research revealed that we had stumbled across one of the greatest threats to our natural environment: invasive species. Our “bamboo”? Japanese knotweed. The deadly vine? Oriental bittersweet. Japanese honeysuckle, Japanese barberry… our yard’s got it all and then some.

I’m willing to bet yours does too.

According to the Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health, a species is continued on next page...

invasive if it meets three criteria: 1) it’s not native to its surrounding ecosystem; 2) it’s capable of propagating; and 3) it causes harm to the local economy, environment, or human population. Notice that simply being non-native doesn’t automatically make a species invasive. For example, many staples of North American agriculture, such as tomatoes and wheat, are not native to this continent, but have you ever seen a tomato plant choke a tree? Me neither.

When a plant (or animal) is plucked out of its native habitat and introduced across the world, local predators typically don’t recog-

nize it as food, leaving it free to reproduce unchecked. The result is what we’ve seen playing out all over town and across the country: invasive plants decimating native species by blocking out the sun, hogging water and nutrients, and outright strangulation.

What can you do to protect your garden, yard, and town from this threat?

Let’s start with five of the most common invasive plants in Rehoboth and the best ways to get rid of them according to the CT Invasive Plant Working Group, along with some personal tips from Rehoboth Land Trust (RLT) members.

**A note about pesticides: While chemical pesticides should generally be avoided to prevent harming pollinators or contaminating soil, most invasive plants are so relentless that careful, selective pesticide use is often the most effective choice. Be sure to follow all instructions thoroughly, and never spray pesticides on plants that are in flower or carrying berries.

Japanese Knotweed

Habitat: Prefers riverbanks, but the ability to adapt to almost any environment and shade level is a common characteristic of invasive plants, and Japanese knotweed is no exception.

Reproduction: Rhizomes form dense underground mats that grow up to 10 feet deep and 30 feet long. Cuttings are able to take root, so be sure to dispose of these properly. RLT Tip: Toss cuttings under a tarp until burning season – the stalks pop like fireworks when they burn, which is immensely satisfying. Roots need to fully dehydrate in the sun.

Most Effective Control Method: June - September: Cut and immediately paint glyphosate directly to the rim of the remaining stalk.

Best Pesticide-Free Control Method: If you catch the infestation early, pulling up the plants or mowing them can work, but you’ll have to do it every time you see new growth, which could be weekly throughout the spring and summer. It will probably take doing this a few years in a row before it’s gone for good. If it’s a mature colony that’s at least a couple years old, you’ve got a hard decision to make. Even if you cover the problem area with a tarp or weed barrier, the rhizomes will stay alive in a dormant state for up to 20 years!

Trivia: Japanese knotweed can grow up to three inches per day – both above and below ground.

Japanese Knotweed

Oriental Bittersweet

Habitat: If there are trees, fences, or poles, Oriental bittersweet will find them. In sun or shade, this vine can grow as long as 60 feet, with a diameter of up to 4 inches.

Reproduction: Its berries are eagerly eaten by birds, which then distribute the seeds. Everywhere.

Most Effective Control Method: June - September: Cut vines and immediately paint glyphosate or triclopyr onto the severed surface of the ends that are still rooted.

Best Pesticide-Free Control Method: Pulling and cutting at any time of year will stimulate new growth, so multiple passes will be required throughout the growing season and for a few years before it’s gone for good. RLT Tip: As much as you might want to, don’t yank bittersweet off of trees, as this can harm the already weakened tree. Cut the vine as high as you can reach, and eventually it will fall off. The same holds true if a thick vine is embedded into the tree: sever the vine at ground level and let it loosen and fall naturally.

Trivia: American bittersweet is a native vine, but is often mistaken for its Oriental cousin. It can be tricky to tell these two apart, since berries only grow on mature female plants. If you do see berries, Oriental bittersweet fruits all along the stem, while American bittersweet only fruits at the end of the stem.

Habitat: Shady forests, sunny fields, and everything in between.

Reproduction: Berries + birds = baby Japanese barberry.

Most Effective Control Method: April – October: Apply glyphosate or triclopyr to cut plants.

Best Pesticide-Free Control Method: Digging plants up at the roots can be effective at any time of year, but it will come back if you don’t get the entire root. Young plants can be mowed, but it will take several passes and perhaps a few years before it’s entirely gone.

Trivia: Ticks and mice love Japanese barberry because it increases soil humidity and ground cover.

Japanese Barberry

Oriental Bittersweet

Japanese Barberry

Japanese Honeysuckle

Habitat: Just about anywhere.

Reproduction: Pollinators love the flowers, and birds love the berries.

Most Effective Control Method: September – October: This plant keeps its leaves longer than most native plants, so apply glyphosate to green leaves in the fall to lower the risk of harming other plants.

Best Pesticide-Free Control Method: Like Japanese barberry, digging plants up at the roots will work at any time of year, but it will come back if you don’t get the entire root. Young plants can be mowed, but several passes and a few years might be needed before it’s entirely gone. RLT Tip: If you don’t get around to mounting your offensive until after the flowers have bloomed, be sure to at least treat yourself by sucking out the yummy nectar (before applying any pesticides, of course)!

Trivia: The best way to distinguish our native honeysuckle vines from invasive species is to break off a stem and look at the cross-section: if there’s a hole running through it, that’s an invasive honeysuckle; if it is solid, without a hole, it’s a native honeysuckle.

Japanese Honeysuckle

Multiflora Rose

Multiflora Rose

Habitat: Most often found along edge habitats and roadsides, it thrives in poor soil and can survive even in full shade.

Reproduction: Berries appear in late summer and remain throughout the winter, feeding local birds.

Most Effective Control Method: Pulling/digging up by the roots at any time of year, and applying glyphosate to cut plants May through October, are both effective control strategies, although multiple passes of pulling/digging may be required before it’s fully gone.

Trivia: A well-established plant in full sun can grow up to 1-2 feet per week in midsummer!

Learn More!

Invasive plants (and animals) are a major problem. Help stop their spread by using some of the methods listed above to snuff them out in your own back yard.

You can get even better at recognizing these plants by joining the Rehoboth Land Trust for our Identifying Invasives Walk on June 17 from 10am-12pm; location to be announced in the May issue of the Reporter.

Everybody loves a good before-and-after picture! Share yours of clearing invasive plants from your yard on the Rehoboth Land Trust Facebook page.

7 Garden Growing Basics for Beginners

(Family Features) Growing your own produce is an all-around smart practice, from the money you’ll save at the grocery store to the contributions you can make toward a cleaner planet.

Maintaining a garden takes some effort, but it’s a project even a beginner can tackle with ease. Consider these tips to start growing your at-home garden:

1. Select a perfect spot. You’ll want to place your garden in an area where you see it often so you’re reminded to weed and care for it regularly. Find a flat area you can access easily, where erosion and other pitfalls (including hungry wildlife) won’t be a problem.

2. Choose between ground and containers. There are pros and cons to gardening in containers vs. the ground, and there’s no universal right choice. Rather, the best garden depends on your goals and preferences. A ground garden usually offers more space and may provide a better growth environment for roots. However, a container garden is often easier to maintain and may be all you need if you wish to grow just a few plants.

3. Understand the importance of quality soil. You may think any dirt will do, but keep in mind the soil you plant in will be the primary source of nutrients for your produce. Not only that, but quality soil provides stability so plants can root firmly and grow healthy and sturdy to support their bounty. Quality soil also allows for ample drainage. Organic matter like compost, leaf mold or aged manure all help improve soil quality.

4. Keep water close. Lugging water can quickly eliminate the pleasure of tending your garden, so be sure you’re situated near a hose. You’ll know it’s time to water when the soil is dry about an inch below the surface.

5. Plan for plenty of sun. A bright, sunny spot is a must, since most vegetables, herbs and fruits depend on six or more hours of sun every day. Remember the sun’s path changes throughout the year, and as trees and foliage grow, they may produce more shade with each growing season.

6. Consider what you’ll grow. Starting with veggies you know you like is a smart starting point since you’ll be pouring sweat equity into making them grow. Over time, you might add new varieties, but early on, keep your focus on foods you know you like so you can see a meaningful return and avoid waste. You’ll also need to consider what you can grow to maturity within your

area’s growing season. If necessary, you might want to start transplants you can nurture indoors before moving them outside when the temperatures allow.

7. Plant according to a calendar. Knowing how long it takes different foods to mature will help you create a planting calendar. You don’t want to harvest everything at once, and if you stagger planting and replant what you can, you’ll have a garden that produces food for your family for a longer period of time.

Find more helpful tips for managing your home and garden at eLivingtoday.com.

Don’t Skip These 4 Important Spring Home Maintenance Steps

(BPT) - Maintenance is an important part of home ownership, but many people delay tasks, thinking a few weeks or even months won’t do any harm. However, putting off home maintenance is risky because small issues that are simple to fix now can quickly lead to complex problems that are expensive to fix later.

Spring is the ideal time to give your home a once-over both inside and out to flag any issues and create a maintenance to-do list. According to the experts at State Farm, here are some top spring maintenance tasks to help protect your home:

Roof and gutters

Your roof provides fundamental protection of your home from the elements in all seasons. Inspect your roof at least once annually for damage, discoloration, loss of granules and missing, worn

or curling shingles. If you have the skills, you can do this yourself, or, call a qualified contractor who can come and do an inspection.

Some additional things to keep in mind, especially during rainy spring months: Gutters and downspouts should be safely attached, clear of leaves and other debris, and have no leaks. Position downspouts to direct water away from the home so it doesn’t impact the foundation. Also, check that flashing is secure - the thin, metal material that’s around windows, vents and chimneys to direct water away.

HVAC systems

HVAC stands for your home’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems. These systems work together to keep your home comfortable throughout the seasons. Regular maintenance helps keep them working well today and extends their life in the future while also saving on energy costs.

Start by setting a reminder every few months to replace filters. Dirty filters can block airflow and make the HVAC system work harder, decreasing efficiency and increasing energy costs. Then, schedule a spring maintenance check with a local HVAC professional. Pros will often check the thermostat, clean or replace filters, lubricate moving parts, check refrigerant levels, inspect the condenser and coils, and investigate unusual noises.

Garage spaces

Garages can quickly become cluttered and certain items pose risks, such as fuel that can start a fire or items that can be attractive to pests. Embrace spring by planning a day to clean out the garage so it is organized and safe.

If you store any fuel in the garage, use dedicated, leak-proof containers out of the reach of children and pets, and away from potential sources of fire ignition such as water heaters or power tools. Be smart about paint and home-improvement chemicals,

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too. A shed away from your home may be a better storage spot for combustible items. Many people also store furniture, clothing and food in their garage, but these are all tempting to insects and rodents. Clothing and furniture can also soak up dust and fumes that destroy their integrity, even if pests don’t. As for food, it’s just too risky to store any in the garage. Even nonperishables like canned goods can spoil due to temperature fluctuations in garage spaces, so opt to store extra food elsewhere.Smoke detectors

Get in the habit of checking your smoke alarms on a regular basis, such as at the start of every season. Do this by hitting the test button on each device. If you don’t already have them, make

sure a smoke detector is located in every bedroom and living space. This small investment and maintenance step can help save lives.

Additionally, don’t wait until the alarms chirp at you to tell you batteries are low. Once a year, replace all the batteries in all the alarms to give you peace of mind that these critical devices are set up to work well in an emergency.

If you need assistance with any of these spring home maintenance tasks, consider hiring a qualified, insured contractor in your area. Reach out to your local State Farm agent for a list of trustworthy professionals who can help.

Food & Dining Guide

Savor Spring Flavor with Fresh Seafood Recipes

(Family Features) Fresh, flavorful ingredients take springtime meals to another level, and it’s hard to top seafood as a seasonal favorite. Skip the wait at restaurants and instead create your own savory seafood dishes by taking advantage of easy-to-make recipes.

While takeout may be an easy option, the satisfaction of enjoying a delicious, home-cooked meal like Shrimp Pad Thai with Jasmine Rice can make you feel like you’re enjoying a restaurant-quality dinner. Next time you’re craving Asian cuisine, swap out traditional rice noodles for this version with Jasmine rice as an aromatic, quickcooking solution for your own spin on a classic.

Take the guesswork out of cooking rice with an option like Success Boil-In-Bag Rice, which offers a heat safe, BPA-free and FDAapproved solution for fluffy, flavorful rice that cooks up perfectly. The high-quality grains are quick, easy, mess-free and ready in 10 minutes, so you can enjoy hassle-free dishes such as Successful Crab and Rice Cakes.

These crispy crab cakes come together easily and are served with a zesty, homemade aioli that tastes just like you’re on the coast. If you’re new to making crab cakes, it’s simpler than it may seem - just cook rice beforehand so it can cool then mix in beaten eggs, seafood and seasonings. Refrigerating and resting the mixture helps it hold together before frying to a mouthwatering golden brown for a delicious appetizer, snack or side dish.

Visit SuccessRice.com to find more springtime meal ideas.

Shrimp Pad Thai with Jasmine Rice

Prep time: 15 mins / Cook time: 10 mins Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 bag Success Jasmine Rice

• 3 tbsp light brown sugar

• 2 tablespoons fish sauce

• 2 tablespoons lime juice

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce

• 2 tbsp canola oil, divided

• 1 egg, lightly beaten

• 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

• 3 green onions, thinly sliced

• 1 cup bean sprouts

• 1/4 cup cilantro leaves, chopped

• 2 tbsp dry roasted peanuts, chopped

• 4 lime wedges

Directions

Prepare rice according to package directions. Set aside.

In small bowl, combine brown sugar, fish sauce, lime juice, soy sauce and chili garlic sauce. Set aside.

In large wok or skillet over high heat, heat 1/2 tablespoon oil. Quickly scramble egg. Remove from pan and reserve.

Add remaining oil to wok over high heat. Add shrimp and garlic; stir-fry 5 minutes, or until shrimp are cooked. Add reserved sauce and rice; stir-fry 2 minutes. Add green onions and reserved egg; toss to combine.

Divide pad Thai between four bowls. Top each with bean sprouts, cilantro and peanuts. Serve with lime wedges.

Successful Crab and Rice Cakes

Prep time: 20 mins / Cook time: 20 mins Servings: 4

Crab Cake Ingredients

• 1 bag Success Brown Rice

• 2 eggs

• 1 pound lump crabmeat

• 2 tablespoons seafood seasoning

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1/3 cup mayonnaise

Aioli Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon minced garlic

• 1 lemon, zest and juice only

• lemon wedges (optional)

Directions

To make crab cakes: Prepare rice according to package directions. Allow to cool.

In medium bowl, beat eggs lightly. Stir in rice, crabmeat and seafood seasoning; mix well. Refrigerate 5 minutes. Shape mixture into eight patties.

In large, nonstick skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Working in batches, carefully place patties in skillet. Cook 5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Transfer to paper towel-lined plate.

To make aioli: Stir together mayonnaise, garlic, lemon zest and lemon juice.

Serve aioli with crab cakes and garnish with lemon wedges.

Fresh Fish Daily, Open 7 Days

Food & Dining Guide

A Full, Fresh Menu Fit for a Brunch Feast

(Family Features) Birthdays, holidays or just casual Saturdays are all perfect excuses to enjoy brunch with your favorite people. Bringing everyone together with quiches, pastries, appetizers, desserts and more offers an easy way to kick back and relax on a warm weekend morning.

These recipes for Easy Brunch Quiche, Savory Cheese Balls and Lemon Blueberry Trifle provide a full menu to feed your loved ones from start to finish, regardless of the occasion.

Find more brunch inspiration by visiting Culinary.net.

A Savory Way to Start the Celebration

Serving up exquisite flavor doesn’t have to mean spending hours in the kitchen. You can bring the cheer and favorite tastes with simple appetizers that are equal measures delicious and visually appealing.

These Savory Cheese Balls are easy to make and perfect for get-togethers and brunch celebrations. Texture and color are the name of the game with this recipe, and the result is a beautiful array of red, gold and green, all on one plate.

To find more recipes fit for brunch, visit Culinary.net.

Savory Cheese Balls

Servings: 6-12

• 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese

• 2 tablespoons caraway seeds

• 1 teaspoon poppy seeds

• 2 cloves garlic, minced, divided

• 1/4 cup parsley, chopped

• 2 teaspoons thyme leaves, chopped

• 1 teaspoon rosemary, chopped

• 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped

• 2 tablespoons pecans, chopped

• crackers (optional) / fruit (optional) / vegetables (optional)

Cut each cream cheese block into three squares. Roll each square into ball. In small bowl, combine caraway seeds, poppy seeds and half the garlic. In second small bowl, combine parsley, thyme, rosemary and remaining garlic. In third small bowl, combine cranberries and pecans. Roll two cheese balls in seed mixture, two in herb mixture and two in cranberry mixture. Cut each ball in half and serve with crackers, fruit or vegetables, if desired.

Finish Brunch with a Light, Layered Treat

After enjoying eggs, bacon, French toast and pancakes or any other brunch combination you crave, it’s tough to top a fresh, fruity treat to round out the meal. Dish out a delicious dessert to cap off the morning and send guests out on a sweet note that’s perfectly light and airy.

The zesty zip of lemon curd in this Lemon Blueberry Trifle brings out the sweetness of whipped cream made with Domino Golden Sugar, fresh blueberries and cubed pound cake for a vibrant, layered bite. Plus, it’s a bright, beautiful centerpiece you can feel proud of as soon as guests try their first bite.

Find more dessert recipes fit for brunch and other favorite occasions at DominoSugar.com.

Lemon Blueberry Trifle

Prep time: 45 mins / Servings: 8-10

Lemon Curd:

• 1 cup Domino Golden Sugar

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

• 6 tablespoons water

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 6 egg yolks

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature, cut into 1/2-inch cubes

Whipped Cream:

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold

• 2 tablespoons Domino Golden Sugar

• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Trifle:

• 1 cup blueberry jam

• 12 ounces fresh blueberries, plus additional for garnish, divided

• 1 pound cake, cubed

• lemon slices & mint, for garnish

To make lemon curd: In medium saucepan, stir sugar and cornstarch. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, water and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened. Remove from heat and gradually stir in three egg yolks; mix well until combined. Stir in remaining egg yolks. Return to heat and cook 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat.

Stir in butter; mix until incorporated. Cover with plastic wrap, touching surface of lemon curd to prevent curd forming skin. Refrigerate until completely cool.

To make whipped cream: In large bowl, beat cream, sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. Do not overbeat.

To make trifle: Mix blueberry jam with 12 ounces fresh blueberries. Place one layer cubed pound cake in bottom of trifle dish. Top with layer of blueberries. Add dollops of lemon curd and whipped cream. Repeat layering ending with whipped cream. Decorate trifle with lemon slices, fresh blueberries and mint.

11:30-7

Prom and Wedding

Simple Tips for a Better Wedding Registry

(Family Features) For some couples, the idea of registering for wedding gifts is an exciting way to start planning for the home they’ll be sharing as newlyweds. For others, the registry is just one more chore to check off the wedding to-do list.

Regardless of where you fall on the love-it-or-hate-it spectrum, most experts agree a registry is a good idea, especially for couples who will be setting up a home together for the first time. Keep these tips and etiquette guidelines in mind to get the most out of your registry. Take inventory of what you have and what you need. For couples who’ve lived alone or together, the registry may be a way to fill in gaps for necessities neither of you already have. It’s also a good way to begin upgrading the less expensive kitchen items and furnishings you had as college students or singles. Make a list of your needs and wants so you don’t forget any essentials. If you’re still in doubt, request a checklist from the store where you’ll be registering so you can do some planning.

Register for things at a wide range of price points. The whole purpose of a registry is to make it easy for your guests to get you things you’ll like and need. Part of making it easy is recognizing your guests have diverse financial situations. While it’s customary to gift the bride and groom, not everyone can afford an extravagant gift, especially if they’ve spent money on travel and attire to attend. While it’s a good idea to offer modest options, don’t shy away from bigger ticket items that a small group might chip in on together.

Keep access in mind when you choose where to register. Avoid stores that are local or regional if you have many guests who live out of the area. Also avoid the temptation to choose online only options, as some guests will prefer to see what they’re buying. Aim for a mix of large national stores and online retailers.

Plan to block off at least a few hours for an in-person registry. It will take time to get everything set up. Traveling through the store, debating options and making your selections could take longer than expected. Also be sure to ask how you can add to or edit your registry after your initial visit.

Get your partner involved. There are bound to be some parts of the registry your partner may not care about, but asking for input and making decisions together lets you both share in the excitement. Focus on things you’ll each find useful as you settle into your new home. For example, the person who will be responsible for taking out the trash should get to pick the new kitchen trash can.

Find more inspiration for planning your way to wedded bliss at eLivingtoday.com.

How to Pay for a Wedding Without a Loan

By Rachel Cruze

I’ve got a detailed list of how to plan your wedding on a budget (including sample budgets for different types of weddings), but here are some of the main things everyone should do when planning a wedding.

Decide what kind of wedding you want.

I’m not talking about color schemes or dinner menus (though those things are important too). I’m talking about how you want to feel on your wedding day. What matters the most to you and your fiancé?

Do you want a more formal church ceremony with everyone you know? Or would you prefer a more laid-back event in your parents’ backyard with a small group of loved ones? Do you want a relaxing reception mingling and eating, or are you excited to dance the night away?

Talk with each other and come up with your top three nonnegotiables as a couple. What three things are the most important and will help you create the wedding vibe you both want?

Get clear on the big things first and figure out the details from there. That way, if you start bumping up against your budget, you’ll know what to keep and what to cut.

Make a wedding budget

Having a budget is key—not just for your wedding, but for your life. When you’ve got a game plan for your money ahead of time, you’re less likely to stress when it’s time to spend. First, talk with your fiancé and your family (if they’re pitching in) about what you can reasonably spend—without borrowing money. Then break that amount down into categories (venue, food, flowers, etc.). Start with those nonnegotiables and go from there.

Almost 60% of engaged couples increase their initial wedding budget because they find things along the way that they feel they “need to have.”2 First of all, some of those “need to have” items aren’t really important. But they’ll seem that way in the moment if you don’t have—and stick to—your budget.

Secondly, when you’ve already thought through your options on the front end, you’ll be less likely to panic buy those silk chair covers or that thousand-foot strand of twinkle lights.

And listen, your budget doesn’t have to be perfect, but you should at least have a good estimate (and some wiggle room) to steer you in the right direction and keep you from overspending or getting tempted to take out a wedding loan. If things get tight, get creative! Find ways to save on those wedding costs!

Your

Your Countryside Oasis Awaits...

Oasis Awaits...

We’re a public country club with an elevated atmosphere. Hillside is a destination for families, friends and co-workers to have some great times in the countryside.

We’re a public country club with an elevated atmosphere. Hillside is a destination for families, friends and co-workers to have some great times in the countryside.

We’re a public country club with an elevated atmosphere. Hillside is a destination for families, friends and co-workers to have some great times in the countryside.

We’re a public country club with an elevated atmosphere. Hillside is a destination for families, friends and co-workers to have some great times in the countryside.

Awaits...

Experience homemade, from scratch recipes at Hillside Tavern

We’re a public country club with an elevated atmosphere. Hillside is a destination for families, friends and co-workers to have some great times in the countryside.

2023 Wedding Wire and The Knot 5-Star Award Winner

Experience homemade, from scratch recipes at Hillside Tavern

Experience homemade, from scratch recipes at Hillside Tavern

Two state-of-the-art, private Trackman golf simulators that fit up to 10 comfortably

Experience homemade, from scratch recipes at Hillside Tavern

Two state-of-the-art, private Trackman golf simulators that fit up to 10 comfortably

Two state-of-the-art, private Trackman golf simulators that fit up to 10 comfortably

Two state-of-the-art, private Trackman golf simulators that fit up to 10 comfortably

Sunshine, scenery, sips and snacks! Enjoy it all at our outdoor Tiki Bar.

Sunshine, scenery, sips and snacks! Enjoy it all at our outdoor Tiki Bar.

Sunshine, scenery, sips and snacks! Enjoy it all at our outdoor Tiki Bar.

Sunshine, scenery, sips and snacks! Enjoy it all at our outdoor Tiki Bar.

Live entertainment, trivia nights and premier dining experiences

Live entertainment, trivia nights and premier dining experiences

Live entertainment, trivia nights and premier dining experiences

Live entertainment, trivia nights and premier dining experiences

@thehillsidecc | hillsidecountryclub.com

@thehillsidecc | hillsidecountryclub.com

@thehillsidecc | hillsidecountryclub.com

82 Hillside Ave, Rehoboth, MA 02769

82 Hillside Ave, Rehoboth, MA 02769

@thehillsidecc | hillsidecountryclub.com 82 Hillside Ave, Rehoboth, MA 02769

508-252-9761

82 Hillside Ave, Rehoboth, MA 02769

508-252-9761

508-252-9761

508-252-9761

Real Estate Brokerage

Set boundaries with your family

A wedding doesn’t just mean the joining of two people. It also means the blending of two families. And when relatives are giving their opinion, you might feel pressure to adjust your wedding to everyone else. But trying to please everyone will only make you more stressed and more likely to spend money on things you don’t want or need. That’s why it’s important to set some healthy boundaries. Yeah, your mother may want you to invite 50 more people you’ve never met, and your Uncle Jim might complain about you not having an open bar for the reception. But at the end of the day, you’re the one getting married—not your mom, not your uncle, and not your cousin who splurged on a string orchestra for her wedding last year. Focus on what works for you, your fiancé and your budget. Your married self will thank you.

Get on the same page with your fiancé

Paying for the wedding is only the first step of dealing with finances as a married couple. After you walk down the aisle and

82 Hillside Ave, Rehoboth MA 02769 (508) 342-5735 • www.cristallospa.com

Cristallo Spa at Hillside Country Club offers a veriety of services and treatments designed to help you feel relaxed, pampered, and look your absolute best.

There’s nothing like the excitement of a Prom. Come spend a fun-filled day at Cristallo Spa with your friends and leave looking WOW!

Bridal Packages include hair design and make-up for your incredible day. Let us make your special day amazing!

the two of you combine your bank accounts, it’s no longer his money or her money. It’s our money.

That’s why it’s important for you both to be on the same page with your finances. Starting now. In fact, our research found that couples who say they have a “great” marriage are more likely to talk about money daily or weekly compared to couples who say their marriage is “okay” or “in crisis.”

If you want to start your marriage off strong, learn how to work on your finances together. Financial Peace University (FPU) will show you how to take control of your money as a couple. This course has helped millions of couples learn how to budget, pay off debt, and crush their money goals—as a team.

Don’t wait until you’re married to talk about money. You and your fiancé can start watching FPU right now.

Trust me. When you’re not worrying or fighting about money, you’re free to go after your dreams like the power couple you are!

For the full article, including more on why wedding loans are not a good idea, visit https://www.ramseysolutions.com/saving/ wedding-loans

Your dream DESTINATION WEDDING awaits on Tybee Island, GA

William W. Tripp & Cheetham Funeral Homes

Jeanne Therese Sarault, 88 of Rehoboth, passed away Saturday, March 11, 2023 at home surrounded by her loving family. She was the beloved wife of the late Robert E. Sarault. Born in Pawtucket, Rhode Island she was the daughter of the late Earl and Irene (Derois) Demers.

Mrs. Sarault worked for Hasbro Industries as a Payroll Supervisor for over 51 years. She was very active in her church throughout her life including at Notre Dame Church, in Central Falls, and Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church where she was very involved in ministries that included teaching CCD, Prayer Group, RCIA and serving as a Lector.

Most importantly she loved and took care of her family, and she was truly loved and cared for. She leaves her children: Glenn Sarault of Rehoboth, Massachusetts, Elaine Gelineau and her husband Joseph of East Greenwich, Rhode Island, Dianne Sarault of Ashland, Massachusetts, 2 grandchildren, Kevin Doucette, and Keith Doucette and his wife Brenda, 2 great grandchildren, Keith Jr., and Mason. Mrs. Sarault was the mother of the late, Lynne Sarault.

Her Funeral was held Wednesday, March 15, 2023 at 8:30 am from the Rebello Funeral Home, 901 Broadway, East Providence to be followed by a mass of Christian burial at 10:00 at Our Lady Of Mount Carmel Church, 984 Taunton Avenue, Seekonk, MA. Burial followed in Notre Dame Cemetery, 359 Daggett Avenue, Pawtucket, R.I.

Calling Hours will be held Tuesday from 4:00-7:00 pm in the Funeral Home.

Jeanne Therese Sarault

Jeanne Therese Sarault

“Serving

Jason K. Landry Daniel A. Laneres Sandra M. Reis Michael S. Sladen of Rehoboth Fala Português

To submit an obituary for print, please call the Reporter Office at 508-252-6575 for rates and information. Obituaries Start at $95.

James D. Dady

Rehoboth – James D. Dady, 90 of Rehoboth passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 30, 2023 at the Marian Manor in Taunton.

He was the loving husband of Sylvia (Reale) Dady, whom he was married to for over 25 years. James was born in Brooklyn, NY, a son of the late James and Dorothy (Berry) Dady. He was a Chief Engineer for Sunoco for many years before retiring.

James loved his country and was a proud US Navy Veteran serving during the Korean War on the USS Wisconsin BB64. While serving in the Navy, James received the National Defense Service Medal, Navy Occupational Medal, United Nations Service Medal, and the Korean Service Medal with 1 star.

Mr. Dady lived in Rehoboth since the early 1970’s, coming from Broad Channel, NY. He was a parishioner of the former St. Mary’s Church Seekonk, now Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Church. He was also a member of the American Legion Post 302 – Rehoboth and VFW of Norton. James enjoyed reading, travel, and woodworking, using his expertise to craft his own furniture and build his home in Rehoboth.

James loved being near the ocean as much as possible. He especially enjoyed taking car rides to spend time at the waterfront in Plymouth MA with his wife Sylvia or dining out with his family. He loved to sail, and he was proud to build a sailboat for his grandson.

James cherished his family and was the father of James Dady III and his wife Susan, Todd Dady and his wife Dawn, Anthony Dady and his wife Penny, Glen Dady and his wife Lynn, and Rachel Patrizzo. He was also the father of the late Christopher Dady and father in law of Debbie Dady. He also leaves his stepchildren Joseph Cunha and Stacy Joseph. James was the brother of Jeffrey Dady and Joseph Dady, and the brother of the late John Dady, Jay Dady, and Jeremiah Dady. He was the proud grandfather of 10 and great grandfather of 2.

His funeral service was held Tuesday April 4, 2023, at 6:30pm in the REBELLO FUNERAL HOME, 901 Broadway, East Providence. Relatives and friends were invited to attend. Calling hours were Tuesday April 4, 2023, from 4:00pm – 7:00pm at the funeral home. Donations in his memory may be made to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, PO Box 849168 Boston, MA 02284 or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Obituary Submission Policy

To submit an obituary for print, please call the Reporter Offic at 508-252-6575 for rates and information. Obituaries Start at $95.

The Reporter has free obituaries on our website. View and Post at: www.reportertoday.com

Rehoboth Mourns Former Selectwoman

By Joe Siegel

Lorraine Botts, a former member of the Rehoboth Board of Selectmen, passed away March 9 after a brief illness. She was 77.

Botts had also served as president of the Rehoboth Senior Center, and was currently serving as an officer for Rehoboth’s Legion Post 302 Auxiliary Committee prior to her illness.

Botts was a 1963 graduate of Pilgrim High School and attended RIC. She was retired from the State of Rhode Island where she worked for over 30 years. She also worked for the RI Bicentennial Commission in the mid 1970s.

“I for one will miss the verbal sparring Lorraine and I would often engage in,” Selectman Michael Deignan wrote on Rehoboth Talk’s Facebook page Friday.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Monday at St. Rose and St. Clement Church in Warwick.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Friends of Rehoboth Animal Shelter, PO Box 634, Rehoboth, MA 02769.

Death Notices

Rehoboth

It is with great sorrow and a heavy heart that we announce the untimely passing of Susan Reid-Burnett, 62, of Rehoboth MA, on February 20, 2023, following a brief battle with leukemia.

Juanita J. Anthony, 42, of Rehoboth, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Tuesday, February 28, 2023.

Lorraine A. Botts, 77, passed away with her son by her side on March 9, 2023, after a short battle with glioblastoma.

Jeanne Therese Sarault, 88 of Rehoboth, passed away Saturday, March 11, 2023 at home surrounded by her loving family.

Seekonk

Martin Bendiksen, age 86, of Seekonk, passed away Sunday, February 5, 2023 at Saint Anne’s Hospital, Fall River.

Leo F. McNeil, 89, of Weymouth, MA and formerly of Seekonk, MA, passed away peacefully Tuesday, March 14, 2023.

James K. Tanner, “JT”, 84, of Seekonk, passed away peacefully with his family by his side Monday, March 20, 2023.

James D. Dady

Lorraine Botts

From the State House

Representative Steven Howitt Supports $350 Million Bond Authorization To Assist With Local Transportation Projects

Boston – State Representative Steven Howitt (R-Seekonk) recently supported legislation authorizing $350 million in bond appropriations to help cities and towns maintain their local transportation infrastructure.

Representative Steven Howitt

House Bill 3547, An Act financing improvements to municipal roads and bridges, received preliminary approval from the House of Representatives on March 23 when it was engrossed on a vote of 153-0. The bill includes $200 million in Chapter 90 money to support local road and bridge projects, along with $150 million in additional funding for six transportation-related state grant programs that are available to municipalities.

Representative Howitt said House Bill 3547 will provide Fiscal Year 2024 Chapter 90 funding of $547,657.27 for Norton, $622,332.31 for Rehoboth, $588,178.26 for Seekonk, and $567,007.52 for Swansea. Established in 1973, the Chapter 90 program allocates funding annually to all 351 Massachusetts cities and towns, using a formula that takes into account the weighted average of a community’s local road mileage (58.33%), population (20.83%) and employment (20.83%).

Representative Howitt noted that Chapter 90 funding is provided on a reimbursable basis, with cities and towns required to pay for the work up-front before being compensated by the state.

In addition to the $200 million in Chapter 90 funding, House Bill 3547 also authorizes a total of $150 million in funding increases for six state grant programs. The bill authorizes a $25 million increase in each of the following programs:

• Funding for the construction, repair, and improvement of pavement and surface conditions on non-federally funded roadways, which is increased from $140 million to $165 million;

• Funding for the Municipal Small Bridge program, which supports the design, engineering, construction, preservation, reconstruction and repair of, or improvements to, non-federally aided bridges, which is increased from $125 million to $150 million;

• Funding for the Complete Streets program, which provides technical assistance and construction funding to eligible municipalities seeking to provide safe and accessible travel mode options for people of all ages and abilities, which is increased from $80 million to $105 million;

• Funding for municipal grants for bus-focused mass transit initiatives, which is increased from $75 million to $100 million;

• Funding for municipal grants for accessibility improvements at mass transit and commuter rail stations, which is increased from $75 million to $100 million; and

• Funding for municipalities to facilitate the transition to electric and zero emission vehicles, which is increased from $50 million to $75 million.

Representative Howitt noted that the Chapter 90 program can be used for a variety of purposes, including road resurfacing, sidewalk repairs, traffic signalization, crosswalks, and street lighting. Other eligible construction projects include structural work on bridges, culverts, footbridges and pedestrian bridges, and retaining walls. Communities can also use Chapter 90 funding for the purchase or long-term lease of certain road-building equipment specifically related to a Chapter 90 project, such as backhoes, catch basin cleaners, concrete mixers, excavators and pavers.

House Bill 3547 now moves to the Senate for its consideration.

For a full transcript of this Press Release, go to www.reportertoday.com. CLASSIFIEDS

YARD SALE

Yard Sale: Saturday, April 22, 2023 from 9am-2pm at Hope Congregational Church located at 120 Wampanoag Trail, East Providence, RI. Rain or Shine. Featuring household goods, tools, TV’s, glassware, books & toys…something for everyone! Hot dogs, chili, and beverages will be sold for lunch, baked goods for sale.

ESTATE SALE

Estate Sale! 388 Brown Ave Seekonk, MA. Sat. April 22 & Sun. April 23. 10a-2p. FILL-A-BAG SALE! $25 per large bag (provided). As much as you can fit! Some exclusions. Many items, vintage clothing, glassware, tools, etc. More/new items since last sale. No early birds! Rain or shine! Cash or Venmo.

FOR SALE

13 ft Great Canadian canoe in excellent condition with paddles and two life jackets, blue, asking $300 or best offer. Call Bill at 508-252-9000.

HALL RENTAL

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

VACATION RENTAL

CUSTOM LOG CABIN HOME: Pearl Lake Rd in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Minutes from attractions: Sugar Hill, Franconia Pkwy, Santa’s Village, Whale’s Tail Water Park, and Cog Railway; sleeps 6, fireplace, swimming, hiking, fishing, boating, kayaks or just R&R. Booking now for Spring and Summer getaways: Weekly or weekends. Call Joe at 401-439-8089.

WANTED

Seekonk Flea Market at Seekonk Speedway. Buyers and Vendors wanted every Sunday 7AM – 1PM from March 26th thru December 3rd 2023. Call Linda at 401-263-5737.

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.

GENERAL SERVICES

Home Repair/Handyman: GSS Property Solutions LLC, Registered, Fully Insured & Bonded in both Mass & RI. Call: 401-6889749.

Bicycle Sales & Service: Your Bike Shops Spring Tune-ups on all brands. In Riverside next to CVS 401-433-4491 and in Warren next to the Police Station and the bike path 401-245-9755. Call Art or Joe for *NEW* hours and service.

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.

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.

HELP WANTED

Full-Time Employment Opportunity: The Rehoboth Department of Health and Human Services is seeking qualified eligible candidates as Office Administrator to perform clerical and administrative duties in support of the Senior Center/Council on Aging, Public Health Nurse, and Veterans’ Services. See Rehoboth Website, “Employment Opportunities,” for information. Closes March 30.

BUS DRIVERS: Barrington Public Schools is accepting applications for School Bus Driver position. Applicants must hold a CDL license and a School Bus Certificate. Please log onto Schoolspring. com (job #4196940) to apply.

Barrington Public Schools is accepting applications for Substitute Custodians at $16.00 per hour. Interested candidates log onto www.schoolspring.com job #4177222 to apply. Barrington is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Help Wanted: Personal Care Attendant wanted. Experienced for developmentally delayed woman. 3pm to 6pm three to six evenings. Rotating Saturday and Sunday 12pm to 4pm. Background check required, Paid by agency Barrington 401-289-0127.

Help Wanted: Needed in my home, light house work, light yard work. Located in Barrington. $20 per hour. Call Carol for details 401-289-0127.

Seekonk Flea Market at Seekonk Speedway. Position available Sundays from March 26th thru December 3rd. Looking for general help around the Flea Market every Sunday from 5am-noon. Call Linda at 401-263-5737.

Teachers Wanted!

Teddy Bear Learning & Daycare Center, Seekonk MA. Preschool looking for full time EEC certified teacher; Contact Michelle at 508-336-2244 or teddybearlearning2023@ gmail.com.

Twin Oaks Farm & Learning Center: Teachers needed for our Infant, Toddler, Preschool, and Kindergarten rooms. Must have a DEEC certification for Teacher or above. Full time with benefits. We have so many children waiting for placement and need teachers to expand our classrooms. We are a small school offering children "A BETTER BEGINNING" in an enriched environment. We have been a school since 1994, and continue to set standards in our industry through our curriculum and teachers. Come be part of our team of educators. Call 1-508-252-5522 to set up an interview with Ana Neves the Director.