August 2023 Seekonk 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!

Please Note:

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

• Letters to the Editor MUST arrive by the 23rd of the month!

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

Email: news@reportertoday.com

The Great Cycle Challenge to Benefit SickKids® for Cancer Research

In August 2022, I met a woman on East Bay bike Path in Bristol Rhode Island while I was riding my daily 20-mile trip. She caught my eye because of the bright shirt she was wearing, and I asked her what it was for. She replied that she rides for the Great Cycle Challenge which supports children’s cancer research. I asked her for more information about it and after a short discussion I already knew I was all in. I had approximately three weeks to prepare for the fundraiser and to ride. I knew I would ride many miles but wasn’t sure how many. I may ride 20 miles a day, but I am willing to try more. I gave it my best effort and raised $3500 which I’m honored

to have done. I also pedaled 927 miles and finished the event with five century rides. My last ride to close out the event was 120 miles.

I just received awesome news of Kahleesa, a little girl who at nine months old was diagnosed with cancer, is now 4 years old and in remission. As if that wasn’t great enough news, she will be riding this year for her first chance to help other children with cancer. The proceeds go to SickKids Fund which treats children’s cancer but also child psychological development and education.

Another girl, Kathryn, was diagnosed with leukemia in 2021 which made her very sick. She endured not only the cancer, but the very drug administered to help her. She fought and struggled for 2 1/2 years and is now in remission. A fighter indeed. Mom suggested a wig to which Kathryn replied, “no I think it’s cute like this.” Such a sweet little girl unaware how brave she really is, deserving of a promising life.

I will ride for the Great Cycle Challenge again this September. Please support my 1000-mile pledge if you can! Proceeds go to SickKids for Cancer Research. Thank you to CRUNCH GYM for your support.

Thank you,

Michael Kuttner of Swansea

Rehoboth Ramblings

by Leslie Patterson

Drive Like Your Life Depended on It

I’m pausing while writing this to meet with the insurance claims person after our car was rear-ended a couple of days ago. Fortunately, the other car was fairly small and not some gigantic SUV. This was in Tiverton, RI, on Main Road just past Evelyn’s Drive-In, at the intersection of Rt. 177. This is another of the thousands of intersections in New England that could use a traffic light. We always joke that if we wrote a book about travel in New England, we’d call it “This Intersection Needs a Light”.

Having even a relatively minor accident is a major nuisance – the insurance claim, how long will the car spend in body shop, will they have the parts, how much will you have to pay out of pocket, and so forth. It also causes you to ruminate. If only we had been at that corner a few minutes earlier (this is a pointless exercise) or, what would happen in the case of a serious accident (best not to dwell on that) and most of all, why can’t people drive more carefully?

It’s not just me saying that drivers have become a lot worse in the past few years and not only in New England. Statistics have shown a noticeable increase in accidents no matter where you live. I’ve noticed in particular news about increasing incidents of cars plowing into houses, stores, and offices. Some of these of these collisions are even fatal, and they all cause enormous damage. Is this because people are texting or looking at screens instead of the road? If self-driving cars could be made foolproof (that’s a big if) and affordable, that would at least help with distracted driver syndrome.

On the highway, you can’t help but notice all the cars that weave in and out while speeding. Why are you in such a hurry that that you’re risking your life just to get somewhere two minutes earlier? Of course, these drivers are also risking the lives of others, but you would think they’d consider their own self-preservation at least. As I said before, some people just think they are immortal.

We are also cautioned to look out for motorcycles, but this works both ways. Motorcyclists especially need good driving skills since they are at a much higher risk of injury or death in an accident. The worst example I’ve seen of reckless bikers was a group of four motorcyclists weaving in and out of traffic at a high rate of speed on the approach to the Braga Bridge. We didn’t see any mangled wrecks on the other side of the bridge so they were lucky that time. But you can’t rely on luck alone when driving.

Moving on from bad drivers and speaking of insurance, what is going to happen when so many thousands of houses, cars, and other property fall victim to floods/landslides or wildfires? Some big insurance companies such as Farmers, State Farm, and Allstate are not writing new policies in California due to wildfire losses. (Shouldn’t they change the name to NotAllstates?)

Things that are hard to avoid thinking about: The excessive and unrelenting heat (over 110) in the Southwest. (In my view Phoenix and Las Vegas should have remained small towns. The middle of the desert is no place for a megacity.) Smoke from wildfires in Canada drifting over a huge swath of North America, turning the air a sickening dirty orange color. (Good thing we still have a supply of masks on hand.) Ocean temperatures off the Florida Keys that are the same as a hot tub, around 100 degrees, killing off coral reefs and other vital marine life. Horrendous heat, drought, and wildfires around the Mediterranean. Summer rains that turn into deluges, causing flash floods in various places all over the world, while other places suffer from water shortages. What’s truly scary is that this grim scenario was previously predicted to begin in the 2030’s or later, yet here we are. These concerns don’t make for fun beach reading but we can’t bury our heads in the sand. The sand is too hot anyway.

New England is considered one of the safer places to live and I’m glad we live here, though the flash floods in Vermont this July were alarming. Anyone who doesn’t think the weather has become more extreme this year must be hiding in their basement, unless they have water there already.

Tide Pond

The tide Pond shrinks, The Tide Pond grows. There’s nothing That the Tide pond Knows. But still It does Keep time With tides, Lower this dock, Then make It rise.

Don Gardner Seekonk

Hello All ~ I hope you are enjoying your summer! A friendly reminder, real estate taxes were due Tuesday, August 1, 2023. You may process your tax payment online @ https://www.invoicecloud. com/rehobothma, drop them off at town hall (340 Anawan Street) in the outside drop box (24/7), drop off at the Collector’s Office (hours Monday-Thursday 8-4 and Friday 8-Noon) please ring button #1 for service or mail to Treasurer/Tax Collector via US Post Office ~ thank you. If dropping off in the outside drop box, please make sure you put your invoice and payment in a sealed envelope to the attention of Treasurer/Tax Collector. Thank You ��

2023 Street Listings are Available

If you would like a copy of the 2023 Street Listings, there is a charge of $15.00. You may order one online @ https://www. invoicecloud.com/rehobothgovsvcs; request a copy by mail, drop box outside of Town Hall-340 Anawan Street or visit us at the Clerk’s Office. If paying by check, please make your check payable to: The Town of Rehoboth ~ thank you.

2023 Dog Tags – Now Past Due

To date we have registered 1,830 dogs this year, unfortunately, we still have 590 dogs that remain unlicensed; 138 more than in 2022. In January we provided every household a copy of the dog license registration form (2023 Census mailer) so they could register

their dog prior to the April 1st annual deadline. We sent dog owners two reminder post cards and offered dog owners a 60-day grace period prior to assessing the $15 late fee per dog in June. We also held our annual rabies clinic / license renewal event with Seekonk in March of this year where owners of all unlicensed dogs were notified of the event by our office. During the month of July, our Animal Control Officer called delinquent dog owners and reminded them of the $25 non-criminal citation and $8.53 certified mail fees, which will be imposed soon. Please license your dog as soon as possible to avoid any further action involving the Animal Control Officer. Currently a $10 dog license renewal is now $25/dog and soon to be $58.53 or more if the $50 daily fee is imposed. The State authorizes all Animal Control Officers to fine delinquent dog owners $50/day until the dog owner renews their dog’s yearly license. Please do not let that happen to you. If you are one of the 500+ dog owners (590 unregistered dogs) who received reminder postcards, letters and phone calls, please register as soon as possible either by mail, stopping by town hall to drop off your payment and valid rabies certificate or by paying online at: https://permiteyes.us/rehoboth/publichome.php

Please let us know if your dog is ill and can’t receive a rabies shot, has passed away or moved. We will not know unless you notify the Clerk’s Office 508-252-6502 x-3109, x-3112 or x-3110 ~ thank you. Unfortunately, if we do not hear from you or receive your dog’s license renewal, we are required by law to charge not only a $15 late fee for each unregistered dog, but file non-criminal citations of $25 plus certified mail charges. If you are over 70 years old, registration fees are waived; however, you still must keep your dog’s rabies vaccinations current and register your dog every year. Thanks so much for renewing your dog’s 2023 license as soon as possible.

School Residency Forms

As we prepare for the upcoming School Year (2023-2024), the Clerk’s Office, in both Dighton and Rehoboth, has received numerous phone calls regarding the School District’s residency forms requiring the member town’s Clerk sign off on the residency forms. That requirement was eliminated by the District effective April 2, 2020. Here is a link to the online student registration portal on the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School website: https://www. drregional.org/page/student-registration . Please enjoy your 20232024 school year!

Reappointments & Oath of Office

Since the end of June 2023, the Board of Selectmen has been steadily reappointing individuals to new terms as of the new fiscal year. As a reminder, once the Board of Selectmen reappoints you to a particular position, and you receive a copy of the signed appointment slip, you must by law take your oath of office prior to any action taken by you in your position. By doing so it protects you and the town. Please stop by so Kerrie or I can swear you in as soon as you receive your reappointment slip(s). Thank you ~ we look forward to seeing you!

Laura Schwall

Rehoboth 2023 Census Reports Past Due Confirmation Cards

State Mandated Voter Inactivation

As you may know, every first week of January, the Town of Rehoboth is required by law to mail out yearly census forms to each household. The census forms must be reviewed by each household, updated, signed and returned by January 31st of each year. In February, we send out second notices to our non-respondents, followed by phone calls made by our Registrars in March to those households who have not returned their census forms, reminding them to please send in their signed census forms. April is the cutoff to finalize the Town’s current population (2023 is 12,916 residents) and run the printed Street Listings and required yearly reports.

The Commonwealth gives voters until the first Monday in June to either respond to the Town’s January census mailing, vote at a town meeting or election that year (January-June) to remain an active voter. If a voter does not respond by that date, as per State Law, our office is required to inactivate any voter who has not replied to the yearly census or voted. To date, we still have 871 non-respondent households to the yearly census and as a result, we were required to send out 1,991 Confirmation Cards to voters who were inactivated in June. The stamped reply cards are required to be signed by the voter and returned so they may be reactivated, if they are still living in Rehoboth. 2024 is a very important election year with the Presidential Primary in March, Town Election in April, State Primary in September and Presidential and State Election in November. Please keep your voting status active by returning your confirmation card. Most important, please remember to send in your January census forms once you receive it so the Town does not need to go to the considerable expense of mailing monthly reminders and having the Registrars call every unresponsive household. If you would like to check your current voting status, please go to: https://www. sec.state.ma.us/VoterRegistrationSearch/MyVoterRegStatus.aspx

We welcome all ideas, photos, articles, news releases and notices that affect these areas. We reserve the right to refuse any submission, including classified/display advertising.

ALL

It

As promised in last month’s issue of the Rehoboth Reporter, Kerrie and I are located on the bottom left of the Statehouse photo – Kerrie is behind the gentleman in the suit on the left and I am behind Kerrie, third row left side. We had a wonderful time visiting with our legislators. We hope our meeting will make the 2024 Elections much better for all involved.

In Closing

In closing, Jenn, Kerrie and I wish you all a safe, happy, most enjoyable summer, and a wonderful Labor Day holiday. I look forward to talking with you next month. Please stay healthy and safe ~ Laura

Job Posting Town Offices

Assessor’s Office

Administrative Aide Position: Administrative Aide

Hours: Full-time 36 hour per week Clerical Union

Position with benefits

Pay Rate: According to AFSCME Union Contract

The Town of Rehoboth is seeking applicants for a full-time Administrative Aide to support the Assessor’s Office. The qualified individual will handle the administrative functions of the Assessor’s Office and a variety of administrative and clerical functions in conjunction with the Assessor’s Office and the Administrative Assessor. Required qualifications:

• High school graduate or GED.

• Two years of office experience or completion of a business education above high school level, or any equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Strong oral and written communication skills including the ability to explain state and local regulations effectively to the public.

• Excellent organizational and time management skills.

• Strong computer skills including working knowledge of typical office software, as well as MUNIS and VISION software.

• Ability to perform work with attention to detail and a high level of accuracy.

• Knowledge of relevant town and state ordinances, regulations, policies and procedures.

• Knowledge of mapping, surveying, zoning, and deeds.

• Excellent customer service skills including the ability to handle inquiries and/or complaints tactfully and effectively. Please forward resume and cover letter along with employment application to: Marisa Medeiros, 340 Anawan Street, Rehoboth, MA 02769 or by email to mmedeiros@rehobothma.gov. Applications will be accepted until August 11, 2023 or until the position is filled. Employment application may be found on the Town of Rehoboth website at www.town.rehoboth.ma.us.

Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer

Posted: July 26th

Town Offices Highway Department Senior Center/HHS Building

Police Department Fire Department Town Website

Facility Maintenance Workers Seasonal Part-Time

The Town of Rehoboth is seeking to hire two seasonal parttime individuals to work with our Facility Maintenance Department with grounds upkeeping and various minor maintenance work on all town buildings. This work will carry through to the Fall Season. The Part-Time employee will work under the direct supervision of the Facility Maintenance Department Superintendent.

Responsibilities:

• General labor as needed

• Mowing and trimming as needed

• Minor building repairs as needed

Qualifications:

• Ability to follow instructions from the Facility Maintenance Department Superintendent

• Experience in operating portable and stationary tools

• Must have the ability to access small work areas, climb ladders, and work in varying temperatures and heights

• Must be able to lift at least 50 lbs.

• Valid driver license

Pay Rate: $20.00 per hour / Hours: 20 hours per week

Applications are available on the town website https://www. rehobothma.gov/town-administrator-board-selectmen/pages/ employment-opportunities. Or you can call the Board of Selectmen’s Office to request a copy or request one by sending an email to mmederios@rehobothma.gov. Applications will be accepted until Friday, August 11th or until position is filled.

Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer

Date Posted: July 27, 2023

Senior Center/HHS Building

Police Dept.

Fire Dept

Highway Dept.

Town Hall

Transfer Station

Town Website

Rehoboth Events Committee Looking For New Leadership

My name is David LeComte, the current chair of the Rehoboth Events Committee. I have lived in Rehoboth for nearly 36 years, and have headed the Events committee since its formation. I am proud of what this committee has accomplished over the years. We have very successfully put on the Taste of Rehoboth(s), Easter Egg hunts, Charcuterie and Floral Design classes, Fall Festival & Holiday Decorating contests, a Kid’s Fun Fest, Old Tyme Clambakes and Murder Mysteries. The participation continues to grow despite our focus on smaller events. As a case in point, the Easter Egg Hunt this year had over a thousand attendees!

The Town Events Committees mission is to organize town events that will benefit the townspeople and its businesses, generate positive publicity for the town, and encourage a sense of community within the town. That said, the committee needs someone to pick up the baton to continue our work. I have purchased a home in the South, and will soon be moving from Rehoboth, and my wife Jennifer will be leaving with me, leaving the Events committee without a chair or clerk. We need a Chair and a Vice/Co Chair to continue providing Rehoboth with community events that can make such a difference in the small-town quality of life!.

As chair, your responsibility will be to plan, organize and present those events which you and the Events committee votes to pursue.

Throughout, I have been fortunate to meet and work with so many good people, and I thank every one of you. Despite the occasional setback, we have met a lot of great people and businesses that I will surely miss. If you are motivated to head our team, contact me at rehobothtownevents@ gmail.com.

A hazy, hot and humid hello to you all!

We are truly in the dog days of summer! So, I’d like to reiterate how important it is to remain hydrated, and if you have respiratory, cardiac or other illnesses, consider staying indoor as much as possible when the temperatures are above 85 degress-90 degrees. The same applies to small children, who may not recognize that they are overheating. As we know here in Rehoboth, temperatures in the 80s90s are sometimes made significantly worse with elevated humidity. The following website, though designed to report air quality, will also provide information on temperature and humidity measurements: https://www.iqair.com/us/usa/massachusetts/rehoboth.

For children headed off to camp, please be sure they have extra water available to them, they should have a hat for protection against the sun, along with spray sunscreen which is easier for a smaller child to re-apply.

Our other concern throughout the summer, particularly as a rural community, is our increased risk for exposure to tick and mosquito borne illnesses. I am seeing an increase in cases of tick-borne diseases, particularly Lyme disease, Anaplasmosis and Babesiosis. To protect yourself, wear light colored, with pant legs tucked into your socks. This will help you to see the tick on your clothing (however the deer ticks, the worst culprit, are tiny and hard to see). Wearing a DEET containing spray will help deter ticks as well. Though the tick needs to be attached to the skin for about 24-36 hours in order to infect the body with its bacteria, doing a self-check as soon as you come in from outdoor activities, particularly in our gardens or during activities outdoor activities in grassy or wooded areas, can be crucial to your protection against the tiny devils! If you find a tick imbedded in your skin, and see a bull’s eye (a reddened circle around the tick bit area) please contact your Primary Care Provider as soon as possible for probable treatment with doxycycline.

We are also hearing news reports that mosquito infected with Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE, or triple E) have been identified in Massachusetts. There are no reported human cases this far. However, protection is key. Wear long sleeves and long pants if you are out in the evening. DEET containing sprays are protective, however staying indoors or in a screened area during twilight and night hours, peak mosquito biting hours, is your best protection. Remember to empty any containers with water in them. The water is prime real estate for mosquito breeding ground! For information on many tick and mosquito borne illnesses please visit: https://www. mass.gov/fact-sheets-on-infectious-diseases

The last reminder during these dog days is to be careful with foods we take outside for our cookouts, particularly those that need to be kept cold. Most of these foods need to be kept below 40 degrees and will grow bacteria quickly when in temperatures warmer than that. For more information, please go to the following web site: Food Safety by Events and Seasons www.FoodSafety.gov.

I will be away for the month of August, but Stephanie will be in the office for 2-3 half days/week. Please see the included calendar. Sincerest best wishes for the rest of the summer,

Geri

Rehoboth Police Code Red Emergency Communications Made Easy

DR.

&

Celebrating 50 Years!

LEE

The Rehoboth Police Department has teamed up with the Plymouth County Sheriff’s Department and the Emergency Communications Network to license its CodeRED high-speed notification solution. The CodeRED system provides Plymouth County and Bristol County officials the ability to quickly deliver messages to targeted areas throughout these two counties.

Please take a moment to register yourself so you will receive emergency notifications from the Rehoboth Police Department. *Important* This system is only as good as the telephone number database supporting them. If your phone number is not in the database, you will not be called.

One of the reasons the CodeRED system was selected is it gives individuals and businesses the ability to add their own phone numbers directly into the system’s database; this is an extremely important feature. If residents previously registered with the Plymouth Bristol Emergency Alert System (prior to August 2011), residents are asked to re-register with the new provider, CodeRED.

Required information includes first and last name, street address (physical address, no P.O. boxes), city, state, zip code, and primary phone number, additional phone numbers can be entered as well.

CodeRED allows geographically based delivery, which means street addresses are required to ensure emergency notification calls are received by the proper individuals in a given situation. The system works for cell phones too, but we need to have an associated street address to provide relevant messages.

CodeRED gives those who want to be included an easy and secure method for inputting information. The data collected will only be used for emergency notification purposes.

Sign Up Now!

About Emergency Communications Network Emergency Communications Network Inc. (ECN) provides affordable high-speed notification solutions capable of reaching millions of citizens in minutes. ECN’s sophisticated network supports a web-based product suite featuring CodeRED® which enables local government officials to communicate time-sensitive, personalized messages via voice, email and text.

News from Rehoboth Animal Shelter

Looking Back… to Old-Fashioned Thanksgivings

By Phyllis Dupere

Several of the animals at the Rehoboth Animal Shelter have been fortunate enough to find new homes in recent weeks, but some are still waiting. Penny, Bella, and Inky are all gentle cats about one year old. Bella is very friendly already, and Penny and Inky clearly want to be and are figuring it out. They get along with one another and have been spayed, vaccinated, and combo-tested negative. There are also two dogs waiting for good homes. More information and pictures are available at Petfinder.com. To make an appointment or to report a lost or found pet, call the shelter at 508-252-5421, ext. 126.

It’s A Birthday Blizzard of Giving! Birthday presents

For our Rehoboth families facing challenging times

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

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

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

• Child’s name, gender, birthday month & year, general interests

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

This information can be emailed to rehobothblizzard@gmail.com Or mailed to Colleen McBride, 35 Pond Street, Rehoboth, MA 02769

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

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

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.

Karen E. Frazao

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.

Dighton Energy Storage Facility Concerns Selectmen

By Joe Siegel

Plans for a new energy storage facility in Dighton has been brought to the attention of the Rehoboth Board of Selectmen.

Water Commission Chair Joe Nunes told the board Monday the proposed location of the facility is adjacent to the Rehoboth border. Nunes believes the facility would pose health and safety risks to residents if a fire was to break out.

New Leaf Energy held a community meeting in Dighton to showcase the project. Another meeting is scheduled for July 20 at 6:30 pm at the Old Town Hall, 1111 Somerset Avenue, Dighton.

The facility, to be constructed at 0 Maynard Lane, will encompass approximately 10.7 acres. The project is comprised of lithium

battery units and supporting electrical equipment mounted on concrete pads and surrounded by a fence. The total project size will be 205,000 Kilowatts AC.

The company’s announcement also states: “The electricity stored will be discharged to the transmission system and reduce the need for fossil fuel peaker plants.”

“Not seeing any plans of the building construction, I’m not so concerned about that getting into the groundwater as I am of fire that could take a long time to put out,” Nunes said. “It takes an awful lot of water to contain that fire.”

“I had two town residents come to my office (who live in the vicinity of the project) to talk about it, so it is a lot of concern obviously,” said Selectman Lenny Mills, noting the abutters have been receiving certified letters about the project.

Chairman Skip Vadnais proposed having Town Administrator Deb Arruda send a letter to the Dighton Town Administrator explaining the need for the BOS and the Water Commission to be informed about the project.

In its June 27 letter, Project Developer Eric Weinstein added: “Regarding our company, New Leaf Energy, Inc. is a nationally recognized leader in the renewable energy industry with experience in the development of solar projects and other renewables. We are excited about the opportunity to work with your community.”

Dr. Gian Calandrelli

“For more information about New Leaf Energy and the project, please visit our website at www.newleafenergy.com/project/ dighton-energy-storage”

Making Rehoboth More Energy Efficient

By Joe Siegel

Rehoboth has been designated as a Green Energy Community and was awarded a total of $148,380 to fund energy conservation projects for town facilities.

“The work that has been done to upgrade the energy efficiency of Rehoboth Town buildings has been funded with grant funds from the Massachusetts Dept. of Energy Resources,” said Carolyn Panofsky, Chair of the Green Energy Committee.

Selectmen Chair Skip Vadnais objected to using town funds to upgrade Goff Hall.

“We don’t own the building,” Vadnais said at the July 10 meeting. “It’s owned by the Antiquarians and they’re a private group. There’s nothing we can do about that.”

Panofsky said that according to the state’s funding guidelines, facilities such as libraries and historical societies that are privately owned but operated for the public with funding from a town are eligible for inclusion in the state’s Green Communities Program, under the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources.

“It is under such guidelines that energy improvements have been made in the past at Goff Hall which houses Rehoboth’s Blanding Public Library,” Panofsky added. “At the current time, the only projects that are planned are energy improvements to be made to the fire stations in south and north Rehoboth, with grant funds from the Green Communities program.”

New Assistant Principals for D-R

by Joe Siegel

Dighton-Rehoboth School Superintendent Bill Runey and Principal Jaqueline Ash have announced the appointment of two new Assistant Principals at Dighton Rehoboth Regional High School.

Arnold Chamanlal and Dustin Demers are the latest additions to the #WeAreDR Community.

Chamanlal was employed at Attleboro’s Brennan Middle School where he worked with Assistant Superintendent Frederick Souza in prior years.

“Chamanlal has rich school administrative experience at both the high school and middle school levels,” Runey said.

Demers comes to DR from Bishop Feehan High School in Attleboro. In addition to his current duties at Feehan, he has also served as a Dean of Students at the High School level and was a Principal at Blessed Sacrament School in Walpole.

“Having two experienced educators from highly-respected schools want to come join our work in DR is a testament to the rising tide of momentum at our high school,” Runey added.

“I am thrilled that Mr. Chamanlal and Mr. Demers are joining the DRRHS family,” Ash said. “They will support our students as we work together to achieve their academic and career goals in a caring and responsive school environment.”

The new Assistant Principals start their new responsibilities in mid-August.

Baxter has been working for the district since October 2021. He had previously served as Director of Finance and Operations for the Warwick, Rhode Island school district.

“I am very proud of and have every confidence in the newly formed business office team, whose accomplishments are already becoming evident, and who will only continue to strengthen in their skills and efficiency,” Baxter added.

Superintendent Bill Runey praised Baxter’s work for the district.

“His willingness to stay with us on an “as needed” basis as long as necessary is a testament to his commitment to what we’ve been building this year,” Runey said Monday.

“Filling Rob’s shoes will be difficult; but in our last four hires (Dighton Rehoboth Regional High School principal, Dighton Middle School principal, and DRRHS Asst. Principals), we have had highcaliber candidates from neighboring districts looking to join us,” Runey noted. “I’m hopeful that trend continues in this case.”

Dighton-Rehoboth Business Manager Resigns

By Joe Siegel

Robert Baxter, the Business Manager for the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District, has tendered his resignation.

“I believe a traditional transition for the district (one where the predecessor leaves for a new job and the successor essentially must learn the specifics of the job on their own) will be harmful to the district,” Baxter wrote on July 19. “I am able to and would be honored to continue to serve you and the district indefinitely on a part time basis to facilitate a transition and take on specific projects as the School Committee would request.”

Arnold Chamanlal Dustin Demers

Annual Greenlock Road Race Honors Chris Titcomb

“Live Like Chris. Gallop for Greenlock!”

It is a common desire that we all share and strive towards: To be remembered for the contributions we have made in the lives of those around us. We want to know that we made a difference in the lives of our family, our friends, and our community. Christopher Eric Titcomb, a man with many interests, had an impact on so many people throughout his short 44 years on this Earth. With his infectious smile and positive attitude, he was able to form close bonds with anyone who was lucky enough to cross his path through his many ventures.

Through his college years and graduate school at Sacred Heart University he played hockey, and later was a strong force on the crew team. During this time he also spent years sailing competitively as part of the F18 sailing fleet. He most recently enjoyed playing in the men’s recreational hockey league

in Cranston and Warwick for Team SpeeDee Hockey Club. Chris enjoyed skiing in the winter, and he took particular pride in his two daughters’ abilities to ski with precision from an early age in large part due to his patience and encouragement.

His solo sport of choice was running - but even that he managed to use as a way to make lifelong friends and rally support in his community through founding the annual road race in Rehoboth that supports Greenlock Therapeutic Riding Center. Anything he pursued was with his full effort and whole heart.

From the time Chris and Katie moved to Rehoboth in 2011, Chris’ dream was to open a Physical Therapy clinic that would provide patient-centered care within a fun and caring environment. He wanted to deliver high quality, one-on-one patient care without the use of rehab aides or assistants for 45 minute sessions. Ultimately, he was able to accomplish so much more than that.

Chris opened Personal Best Physical Therapy in July of 2015. Here he created a culture where the staff all felt like family, and our patients, who became friends, would visit often. Chris had a knack for making each of his patients feel heard, respected, and well cared for.

Although the physical therapists who remain have big shoes to fill, they are committed to continuing to deliver the same unparalleled care that patients have come to expect. Their message is clearPersonal Best Physical Therapy is here to stay. They will continue to serve the community as they strive to keep Chris’ legacy alive. The second office that opened in Norfolk, MA in 2018 will also continue to operate as usual under the continued leadership of Kyle Martinis.

Greenlock Therapeutic Riding Center, a non-profit organization was established in 1989 in Rehoboth and remains a successful business of which Chris became a vital part. After opening Personal Best Physical Therapy, he became a member of Greenlock’s Board of Directors. His greatest contribution was starting an annual road race in 2015 with his staff and Greenlock volunteers, which has become one of their larger fundraisers.

The race has always been held in early October, with Chris as the race director since 2017. Since Chris’s passing on May 19, 2023, the Greenlock Board of Directors is choosing to change the name of the road race. The decision to re-brand the annual Gallop for Greenlock 5k is yet another step in honoring Chris and all that he has done for our small Rehoboth community. The annual race will now be known as “Live Like Chris. Gallop for Greenlock! The Chris Titcomb Memorial 3.34 mile Race” and it will be held on Sunday October 1st, 2023.

Chris with his wife, Katie, and two daughters Hailey and Sarah, riding horses at Greenlock Therapeutic Riding Center

We hope that you will join us on October 1st. There are many ways to get involved leading up to the day, as well as on race day. Please reach out to Greenlock at Greenlock5k@gmail.com or call (508) 252-5814 if you have any interest. Donations are always welcome and much appreciated. Even if you choose not to run, there will be plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy at the post-race celebration. We hope to see you there.

Photos at left (top to bottom):

1-Chris and three of the physical therapists at the clinic left to right Courtney Bairos, Heather Baldassi, Anna Grondski at the Newman YMCA Turkey Trot

2- Chris at the Greenlock road race with Cote David, runner and volunteer, selecting raffle winners.

3- Chris and Family.

*Rehoboth cover caption: Chris with his two daughters, some of the PTs at the PBPT clinic, and friends

Kave Rock Alpaca Farm is located on the scenic Rehoboth Reservoir. Alpacas are curious animals and interact with visitors of all ages. We specialize in fine quality alpaca fiber products made in the USA. Products can be purchased at the farm, online or locations listed under ‘Events’ on our website. Visitors are welcome for free most Sundays between 12-4. Closings are listed on the website and social media pages. Contact Dave & Karen Medeiros for more information at 401-465-7589. www.kaverockalpaca.com

Kave Rock Farm

Alpaca Products

All our alpaca fiber products are MADE IN THE USA!

Karen at Kave Rock Farm, photo by Zoe Zekos.

Souza Family Farmstand, photo by Earle Dias.

Picking peas at Souza Family Farm, photo by Earle Dias.

From the Clerk

August is one of my favorite months in New England – The weather is always great making it the best time of the year to hop in the car and go to the many beaches and lakes this area has to offer. It’s also a great time of the year to go hiking and camping. I hope everyone can get out and enjoy it.

School for Seekonk starts on August 30th. All school and Town offices will be closed on Labor Day September 4th. I wish everyone going back to school a successful and fun year.

It’s hard to believe that the Town Clerk’s office is already planning for the elections in 2024. As we all know 2024 will be a big year for elections, the presidential primary also known as Super Tuesday will be held on March 5, 2024. Massachusetts has three presidential party primaries- Democratic, Republican, Libertarian. According to Secretary of State, William Galvin, the presidential primary ballot will be finalized by the end of 2023. The voter registration deadline for the March 5 election is February 24, 2024. You can check or change your registration status and party affiliation on the secretary of state’s website. Massachusetts has open primaries; independent (unenrolled) voters can pick which party they want to vote for at the polls.

For your information Seekonk’s state senator is Marc Pacheco (next election 2025) and state representative is Steven Howitt (next election 2025). On the national level the town is part of Massachusetts Congressional District 4, which is represented by Jake Auchincloss (next election 2024). The state’s Senior Senator is Elizabeth Warren (next election 2024), and the state’s Junior Senator, is Ed Markey (next election 2026).

Thanks to those who have returned the census confirmation post cards. Unfortunately, we still have over 2,000 inactive voters in our system. The status of inactive means you could be removed from the voter rolls if you did not answer the census two consecutive years in a row. This office can’t stress enough the importance of being a current, active voter, because when it comes time to vote: 1) you might not be able to cast a ballot because you have been removed from the voter rolls. 2) you will not have to go through time consuming steps in order to cast a ballot. Please take a moment to check your voter status it is easy go to: www.

This website will allow you to check you voter status, change your party affiliation or register to vote.

The 22nd annual 9/11 ceremony is to be held on September 11th at the Safety Complex building on Taunton Avenue (time to be announced). The ceremony marks the anniversary in which terrorists hijacked four airplanes and carried out suicide attacks against targets in the United States. We hope you plan on attending to honor not only the people who lost their lives on 9/11 but to pay tribute to and thank our Public Safety employees and veterans.

A friendly reminder preliminary tax bills went out at the end of June with the first quarter due August 1st and the second due November 1st.

Have a great month.

Florice Craig

Seekonk Animal Shelter News

Jude is a stunning, young, neutered male, Pit Bull mix who has been with us for 2 months. He enjoys long walks and car rides. Jude will be best in a home with no other animals or small children. He is a very strong dog but also quite the goof ball. Jude is current on his rabies and distemper vaccines and was tested negative for heartworm disease. If you would like to meet Jude, please call 508-336-6663 for an appointment or visit the Seekonk Animal Shelter, 100 Peck Street, Seekonk.

Seekonk Community Preservation Committee Public Hearing Coming Up!

Want to help plan improvements to Seekonk in the areas of Open space and passive recreation, Historical preservation and Affordable Public Housing?

On August 15, 2023 at 6:30 PM the Seekonk Community Preservation Committee (CPC) is holding its annual public hearing to introduce residents to the Massachusetts Community Preservation Act (CPA) – the funds available for projects in the areas above and how they are allotted. The meeting will take place in the Town Hall Select Board Room.

Among the 20 plus applications approved since the Committee was established are:

• Repairs to the Seekonk Commons building envelope

• Habitat for Humanity House constructed on Gude st.

• Plans for organizing, housing and developing a retention schedule for Town Hall and Public Safety Documents

• Seekonk Town playground

• Seakonke Area Trails – several grants for trail development and construction running from the Town Hall to Arcade Ave.

• Agricultural Preservation Restriction for the Yaghian property on South Wheaton St. which means the property will be kept in perpetuity as farmland.

• Purchase of the Medeiros Family Farm on Lincoln St. which will provide land for ball fields, trails, buildings illustrating Seekonk’s agricultural past and potentially a community garden.

Although the CPC is responsible for determining whether applications meet requirement set by the State, individuals and agencies can submit applications. The committee is made up of 9 members – 4 at large and the others mandated to be from the Planning Board, Conservation Commission, Parks and Recreation, Historical Commission and the Housing Authority.

The hearing is an opportunity for residents to ask questions and to float ideas for possible projects. Copies of the application form will be available and it can also be seen on the Committee web page.

Susan Waddington - Clerk, Seekonk Community Preservation Committee

Doorways Congratulates Graduating Volunteers

Evan Fasteson

and Tim Breen Have Been Key Volunteers At Doorways Since the Days of the Pandemic

The community of Doorways – both shoppers and volunteer workers – would like to take this opportunity to salute Evan Fasteson and Tim Breen, who recently graduated from high school and are headed off to college in the fall. Both of these young men have been volunteering at Doorways food pantry for over three years, and they stepped up to help keep the food pantry open when Covid was forcing other institutions to close. Each of them has logged well over a hundred hours of volunteer service during their high school careers, all while juggling varsity sports, part-time jobs, and maintaining a high grade-point average. They will be missed.

Fortunately, they are attending colleges in the area, so we hope they will come back and visit us when they are able. From all of us, thank you Evan and Tim!

for expansion. The Police Department is looking for additional space, unfortunately when we built the main headquarters (on Taunton Avenue in 2005), the minute we moved in, we outgrew it based on the design.”

Cadime said the police department will benefit from having a new facility for communications, which would allow for faster response times.

Some residents expressed concerns about noise should the new fire station be constructed near their homes.

Town Planner John Aubin explained the town’s fire stations are all situated in residential neighborhoods, including the Banna station on Pine Street.

Cadime said if the town were to seek out another location for the facility, the price of the project would end up being significantly higher due to the current real estate market. The town owns the 69 School Street property.

Making the project suitable for the neighborhood is a top priority, Cadime added: “We don’t want to impact the quality of life for our residents.”

Seekonk Firefighter Sworn In

By Joe Siegel

Firefighter Andrew Jacobs was sworn in at a Select Board meeting in July. Jacobs graduated from the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy in June.

“Training is tough at the academy,” said Fire Chief Sandra Lowery. “What Drew found most enjoyable at the academy was the rapid intervention training. This is an area in which he thrives.”

Town Clerk Florice Craig swore in Jacobs, who was surrounded by family and friends.

Seekonk Planning Board Reviews Fire Station

By Joe Siegel

The Planning Board reviewed a proposal for a new fire station in the south end of Seekonk. Voters at the May 2020 town meeting allocated $425,000 for the design of the facility at the former school administration building at 69 School Street.

The 8300 square foot building would consist of three components, including dispatch, living quarters, and fire suppression.

The construction cost would be $7.2 million. An additional $2 million would be needed for “soft costs.” The total would be $9.6 million. A debt exclusion, or temporary tax increase, would need to be approved before construction begins.

Members of the South End Fire Station Building Committee made a presentation to the Board of Selectmen on January 18.

Town Administrator Shawn Cadime said the project would impact all three public safety departments – police, fire, and communications.

“Communications is running out of space,” Cadime noted. “We only have the availability to have two consoles so we have no room

Evan Fasteson (L) and Tim Breen (R)

Florice Craig swore in Andrew Jacobs

Seekonk Earns AA+ Bond Rating

By Joe Siegel

Seekonk Superintendent Contract and Salary Finalized

By Joe Siegel

Town Administrator Shawn

Cadime

provided a review of the 2023 fiscal year budget to the Select Board on July 12.

The year-end closed with no major issues and significant turn backs. Salaries and expenditures closed $2.6 million below budget forecast. Revenues closed roughly $1 million ahead of budget projections.

Cadime discussed the FY’24 preliminary tax bills. $23.3 million is committed for real estate, with $1.8 million for personal property.

An update from the Treasurer’s office revealed a Bond Rating Review Call with Standard and Poor’s. Seekonk has a confirmed AA+ rating with a stable outlook.

Cadime said a triple A rating is the highest, with a double A second.

“There are factors that are outside our control in terms of getting that triple A,” Cadime explained. “We’ve done everything we possibly can internally. The biggest component is the financial policies we have put in place.”

Bond Anticipation Notes (BANs) sold at 4.47 percent to Newburyport Five Cents Savings. Those are $425,000 for the South End Fire Station and $750,000 for the Department of Public Works (DPW) Project.

The long-term bonds were sold for 2.91 percent. Those include the Phase 2 project for the Senior Center and the turf field at Seekonk High School.

Seekonk Public Schools Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell will be paid an annual salary of $170,000 for the first year of her contract, which expires on June 30, 2026.

Kidwell, who started working for the school district on July 1, had previously served as the Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum, Instruction, Assessment & Professional Development of Rockland Public Schools. Kidwell previously served as Director of Technology and Accountability, K – 12, for Braintree Public Schools.

Under the terms of Kidwell’s contract:

The School Committee agrees that it will meet annually with the Superintendent on or before March 15th of each year of this contract for the purpose of reviewing the Superintendent’s salary. The Committee and the Superintendent, shall attempt, in good faith, to conclude their performance review by July 15th of the successive contract year commencing July 1st. The salary increase, if any, negotiated by the Parties shall be retroactive to July 1st, unless the Parties agree otherwise. At no time during the life of this contract or any extension thereof shall the Superintendent’s salary be reduced absent mutual written agreement.

The Superintendent shall receive an in-district travel allowance of $2,400 annually. The Superintendent shall be eligible for 26 days of vacation each contract year.

Seekonk Superintendent Says No Change to Health Education

By Joe Siegel

Seekonk School Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell said there were will be no changes to the district’s health education policy.

The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has released a 46 page draft of a curriculum framework for Comprehensive Health and Physical Education. DESE is seeking feedback from parents and educators about what should be taught in schools.

“We are making no changes in our schools,” Kidwell told the School Committee Monday. “We absolutely still abide by policies for parents to opt-out of education around human sexuality. We are inclusive of all and we are interested primarily in making sure students and families in Seekonk know that our schools are a place for them.”

DESE outlines seven practices, including decision-making and problem solving, self-management and goal-setting, social awareness, relationship and communication skills, movement skills, and self-advocacy and health promotion.

DESE notes: The standards are presented by grade span: Pre–K-2, grades 3–5, grades 6–8, and grades 9–12. The standards are considered learning goals that are intended to be achieved by the end of each grade span, respectively. Within each grade span, the standards are grouped by practice. This reflects the importance of the practices for students across the disciplines of health education, physical education, and in developing social emotional competencies. Finally, within each practice, the standards are grouped by the following topics. A sample organization is shown below.

• Gender, Sexual Orientation, and Sexual Health [GS]

• Healthy Relationships [HR]

• Mental and Emotional Health [MH]

• Nutrition and Balanced Eating [NE]

• Personal Safety [PS]

Some of the standards for pre-kindergarten through Grade 2 include:

• Discuss gender-role stereotypes and their potential impacts on people of all genders.

• Demonstrate empathy and ways to treat all people with dignity and respect

• Explain how no one has a right to violate personal boundaries, and demonstrate an appropriate refusal (e.g., tell a trusted adult, say NO, leave the situation) when someone says or does something that does not respect personal boundaries.

• Discuss stereotypes, prejudice, discrimination, equality, and inequality and how these can affect relationships and situations.

• Demonstrate awareness of, and ways to show respect for, all types of families (e.g., families with heterosexual parents, families with same-gender parents, single parent families, intergenerational families, adoptive families, foster families).

“I think it’s imperative that the public does understand what this framework contains,” said committee member Kyle Juckett. “(The draft) starts with pre-K to second grade. It targets gender discussion and discussion of personal boundaries including sexual discussion.”

Chairperson Meaghan Mahoney admonished Juckett, noting the committee was not going to engage in a discussion of the DESE report.

Committee member Noah Escaler said the committee needed to have a work session about DESE’s suggestions.

During the public comments portion of the meeting, Juckett said the prospect of different types of sexual intercourse being discussed with elementary school students was not appropriate.

“I have a third grader (in school) and I would be very upset if someone was going to start talking to my little girl about sexual intercourse,” Juckett noted. “Let’s be fair. Sexual intercourse encompasses many different styles of sexual intercourse so I don’t want any of that before (my daughter). These are conversations that will typically happen in the home when they need to be, not to six year olds, not to seven year olds, not to ten year olds.”

DESE’s CHPE report can be accessed at: https://www.doe. mass.edu/sfs/healthframework/

July Real Estate Market Review

Seekonk Public Schools Welcomes New School Business Administrator and Director of Technology and Digital Learning

Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell is pleased to announce the selection of two new members of Seekonk Public Schools administrative leadership team.

Dr. Ryan McGee has been selected as Business Administrator and Trisha Leary has been selected as Director of Technology and Digital Learning. Both will begin their new positions on Aug. 1.

“District and school leadership is truly looking forward to welcoming both Dr. McGee and Mrs. Leary to our administrative team, as they bring with them professional knowledge and teaching experience that will complete our central office team,” Superintendent Kidwell said. “Along with Assistant Superintendent Zach Waddicor and Director of Student Services George Kelleher, we are thrilled to spend August meeting with administrators, teachers, staff, and families, preparing for a great school year.”

School Business Administrator Ryan McGee

Dr. McGee most recently worked in Stoughton Public Schools as the District’s Administrator of Educational Technology. In this role, he worked with, maintained and supported the District’s financial system among his many other responsibilities.

Prior to working for the Stoughton school district, McGee worked for the Town of Stoughton as the Information Technology Director, where he also supported and maintained all town departments’ network infrastructure including the operational plan and budget.

McGee also served as Old Rochester Regional School District & MA Superintendency 55’s Technology Director, Barnstable Horace Mann Public Charter School’s Technology Director/Building Administrator, and Saint Francis Xavier Preparatory School’s Technology Coordinator, among his many other previous positions.

He received his Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership from Northeastern University and a Master of Business Administration from Johnson and Wales University.

Director of Technology and Digital Learning Trisha Leary

Leary has spent the past 24 years working in education, during which time she has consistently championed the effective use of technology to supplement instructional practices for both students and teachers.

In her most recent position as Dartmouth Public Schools’ District Instructional Technology Specialist, Leary chaired a committee to align and integrate digital literacy standards for Grades K-12. She also collaborated with instructional technology specialists, building administrators and coaches to develop and/or modify curriculum maps to align with digital literacy standards in addition to collaborating with elementary and secondary directors of teaching and learning to ensure that the software supported instruction, assessment and curriculum.

Prior to serving as the district’s Instructional Technology Specialist, Leary also held the positions of instructional technology specialist and classroom teacher for Grades 4 through 6.

Leary holds a Master’s degree in Elementary Education from Cambridge College, a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth and holds several certifications in teaching.

Dr. Ryan McGee (left) has been selected as the district’s new school business administrator, and Trisha Leary has been selected as the new director of technology and digital learning. (Photo courtesy Seekonk Public Schools)

*Sustainable Seekonk*

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

Rain Barrels-the committee sponsored a discounted Rain Barrel sale in June & will likely do so again next year-don’t miss out next time on this great resource for saving water and keeping your plants hydrated even in a drought!

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

Adopt-a-Drain Program- the committee will reward you with a free bag of town trash bags when you commit to keeping a local drain clear near your home. Just fill out the form online!

Textile Recycling Bins- there are Bay State Textile collection bins at the DPW center & at all the schools. You can deposit used clothing, sheets, towels, shoes and more at these bins-even if they’re stained, ripped or worn out! Nothing wet or moldy, please!

Terracycle Recycling- the committee is collecting hundreds of everyday items that would normally end up in the trash because they cannot be recycled traditionally. Brands partner with Terracycle to offer these free programs to recycle items like toothbrushes, deodorant, air fresheners, coffee bags and more! Find the current list at Sustainable Seekonk on Facebook.

Composting- the DPW yard allows for drop off of yard waste for composting, but residents can also sign up for curbside compost collection through Bootstrap Compostwhich collects all household food waste, even meat and bones. They offer weekly & bi-weekly pickups and you can also get finished compost back for your garden!

Batteries & Bulbs- did you know that the #1 cause of fires in trash collection programs is rechargeable batteries? The DPW has a collection bin for batteries-including cell phone batteries and other rechargeables or hazardous batteries. They also accept fluorescent light bulbs-including CFL bulbs and tubes. These should never go in your curbside bins!

Plastic Bag Ban - in 2019 the town adopted a plastic bag ban that requires businesses to offer thicker reusable bags or paper bags to customers instead of thin single use bags. Using your own sturdy bags helps save trips back & forth and keeps plastic bags off of our roads & out of the waterways.

Recycling Tip of The Month: take the handles off your paper bags before putting in your bin-this can help prevent tangling in the sorting machines.

Seekonk Enjoys National Night Out

By Joe Siegel

Members of the Seekonk Police and Fire Departments hosted the annual National Night Out on August 1 behind the Public Safety headquarters on Taunton Avenue.

The family friendly event included representatives from civic organizations including Save-a-Pet and the Seekonk Fire Museum who were selling merchandise and providing information about their services.

National Grid employees held a special demonstration, along with the Seekonk Police K-9 unit. Members of the National Guard and the Rehoboth Police Department were also on hand.

The purpose of National Night Out is to build police/community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie.

Avery and Evan Faria enjoy a ride with The Seekonk Police

Audubon Society of Rhode iSlAnd

Unless noted, registration is required for all programs. A complete listing of activities & programs are detailed in the Audubon Nature Tours and Programs, a free guide to connecting with the natural world. Register online at www.asri.org or call (401) 949-5454.

Cool Off! Audubon Offers Nighttime

Nature Walks in August

Join a cool evening exploration when the sun goes down. Listen for harmonies of crickets, grasshoppers, and katydids, watch for nocturnal wildlife, or join an Audubon expert on the trails under the super blue moon in August. Audubon naturalists say that the evening is a special time to explore nature – come find out why!

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

Edible and Medicinal Plant Walk

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, Bristol, RI

August 6, 2023; 10:00 – 11:30 am

Join Audubon naturalist and herbalist Tina Lidano and explore the edible and medicinal herbs along the trails of the Nature Center and Aquarium in Bristol, RI. This program will take place rain or shine, so please come dressed for the weather.

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

Where Does All That Stormwater Go?

Walking Tour of the Stormwater Innovation Center

Stormwater Innovation Center, Roger Williams Park, Providence, RI

August 9, 2023; 11:00 am – 12:00 pm

Did you know that Roger Williams Park in Providence has over 30 green infrastructure projects? These are important tools that filter stormwater and help stop harmful pollutants from entering ponds and waterways. Green infrastructure investments made by the Providence Parks Department work to improve water quality in this city park that sees over a million visitors each year. Join a walking tour and learn about how these projects work and get stormwater-friendly landscaping tips for your own yard. It might just change the way you think about rainstorms! Meet at the Seal House in RWP (near the Japanese Garden and Carousel.)

Departs from the Roger Williams Park Seal House. Free. Ages: 5 and up. Register through the events calendar at asri.org/ calendar.

Proactive Conservation: Managing Audubon Properties for Bird Populations Lecture with Dr. Charles Clarkson, Director of Avian Research

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, Bristol, RI

August 10, 2023; 6:30 – 8:00 pm

Now more than ever, there is an urgent need to understand the habitat and nutritional requirements of birds. The first step to understanding how bird populations are being affected by climate change is to establish

a baseline of abundance and distribution within a given study area. Join Dr. Charles Clarkson and learn about the new baseline data set that has been collected across Audubon properties, and how the organization will begin conservation efforts to bring back declining bird populations. This talk will provide an overview of current data and identify conservation work that is planned.

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, 1401 Hope Street, Bristol, RI; Fee: $10/member adult, $5/member child; $14/non-member adult, $7/non-member child. Ages: Teen to Adult. Register through the events calendar at asri.org/calendar.

Nightlife at Ruecker

Audubon Emilie Ruecker Wildlife Refuge, Tiverton, RI

August 10, 2023; 7:00 – 9:00 pm

Join Audubon at the Emilie Ruecker Wildlife Refuge for a spectacular evening of nocturnal exploration. A naturalist will be your guide as you listen for and observe the various wildlife that call this refuge home.

Emilie Ruecker Wildlife Refuge, Seapowet Avenue, Tiverton, RI; Fee: $10/member adult, $5/member child; $14/non-member adult, $7/non-member child. Ages: 10 and up. Register through the events calendar at asri.org/calendar.

Audubon Bird Banding in Bristol

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, Bristol, RI

August 12, 2023; 9:15 – 11:15 am

Come to Audubon and experience bird banding, where experts capture, band, measure, and release songbirds in order to record their movements. Birds will be gently removed from tall “mist nets” set in the shrubby habitats on the grounds of the Nature Center and Aquarium. The techniques of identifying, measuring, weighing, and banding the birds will be demonstrated before they are released. The migratory habits and life history of each captured species will be discussed.

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, 1401 Hope Street, Bristol, RI; Fee: $10/member adult, $5/member child; $14/non-member adult, $7/non-member child. Ages: 6 and up. Register through the events calendar at asri.org/calendar.

Discovering Moths: Nighttime Jewels in Your Own Backyard

Author Meet and Greet with John Himmelman

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, Bristol, RI

August 12, 2023; 1:00 – 2:30 pm

Meet the beautiful, fascinating, and underappreciated cousins of the butterflies…moths! Less than 1% of the over 11,000 species of moths in North America are considered pests. The rest show an amazing variety of color, shape and behavior missed by many of us, as we tend to be indoors at night when most (not all) are active. While you will learn about a couple of the pests and how they got here, this program will mostly be celebrating the vast array of bewitching and beneficial species with whom we share our yards. John Himmelman is the author of the book bearing the title of this program and he will be selling signed copies after the lecture.

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, 1401 Hope Street, Bristol, RI; Fee: Other; $12 members, $16 non-members Other. Ages: 12 and up. Register through the events calendar at asri.org/calendar.

Dr. Gabriel Wassouf

Dr. Alicia Tavares

Stephen E. Navega, PC

- ATTORNEY AT LAW -

Administration of Estates

Probate of Wills

Wills and Trusts

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447 Taunton Avenue

Seekonk, MA 02771

T 508.336.8120

F 508.336.3350

navegalaw@aol.com

Providing legal services since 1979. Experience matters.

Debbie’s Cleaning

Service

Night Singers at Parker Woodland

Audubon Parker Woodland Wildlife Refuge, Coventry, RI

August 17, 2023; 7:00-9:00 pm

Come take a walk through the forest and field and listen for crickets, grasshoppers, and katydids. Enjoy the beautiful and relaxing sounds of a summer evening and learn about the insects creating these harmonies. Dress for a cool night and bring a flashlight. Wear sturdy shoes/boots, bring bug spray and a flashlight. Park your vehicle and meet in Parking Lot #1 on Maple Valley Road. This program is appropriate for ages 12+.

Parker Woodland Wildlife Refuge, Maple Valley Road, Coventry, RI; Fee: $10/member; $14/non-member. Ages: 12 and up. Register through the events calendar at asri.org/calendar.

Night Singers at Caratunk

Audubon Caratunk Wildlife Refuge, Seekonk, MA

August 18, 2023; 7:00-9:00 pm

Come take a walk through the forest and fields to listen to frogs, toads, crickets, and katydids. Enjoy the beautiful and relaxing songs of a summer evening and learn about the animals creating this chorus. Wear sturdy shoes/boots, bring bug spray and a flashlight. This program is appropriate for age 10+

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

Tea-Time and Fairy Houses for Children

Audubon Fisherville Brook Wildlife Refuge, Exeter, RI

August 19, 2023; 10:00 – 11:30 am

Do you love fairies or small little woodland critters? Come create a “Fairy House” with natural materials that your favorite small friend can visit. After working hard to build your house, we visit the Children’s Garden at Fisherville for some tea and snacks. Families will have the chance to visit with some fluffy creatures: a bunny, a chick, and a duck! Please be prepared to hike a small distance into the woods.

Fisherville Brook Wildlife Refuge, 99 Pardon Joslin Road, Exeter, RI; Fee: $10/member child; $14/non-member child. Ages: 5 and up. Register through the events calendar at asri.org/calendar.

Sea Glass Workshop

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, Bristol, RI

August 19, 2023; 1:00 – 2:30 pm

Come design and create a beautiful pendant with sea glass found on local beaches. Learn how to choose the right piece of glass and transform it using quick and easy wire wrapping techniques. Program includes all materials. Find something special on the beach? Bring that too! This class fills quickly, advance registration is required.

Barred Owl by Peter Green

Summer Craft Table

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, Bristol, RI

August 19, 2023;1:00 – 3:00 pm

While visiting Audubon’s Nature Center and Aquarium, stop by our summer craft table for some free creative fun!

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

South County Shorebird Tour

Audubon Van Trip to Locations Across Rhode Island

August 23, 2023; 6:30 am – 1:30 pm

Hop aboard the Audubon van for a trip along the beautiful shores of Rhode Island’s South County. On this full-day expedition, plan to make many stops along the shores, saltmarshes, and ponds to observe the amazing diversity of shorebirds that can be found in these habitats. We may enjoy a break at one of the stops, so bring a lunch to enjoy! Participants should bring sunscreen, bug spray, snacks, lunch, and water. Meet in the parking lot at Audubon’s Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge in Smithfield, RI.

Departs from Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge, 12 Sanderson Road, Smithfield, RI; Fee: Other; $56/Member, $71/Non-member. Ages: 16 and up. Register through the events calendar at asri.org/calendar.

Wild Mushroom Workshop: Take the Mystery Out of Mushrooming

Audubon Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge, Smithfield, RI

August 26, 2023; 10:00 am - 1:00 pm

Join Audubon for an introduction to mushrooms and fungus! Learn how to identify mushroom groups and species that grow in the area. Start with a presentation on mushroom identification and view wild mushrooms that were collected from other areas, depending on availability. Then venture out for a hike in the woods with an expert guide to find mushrooms growing in the wild. Afterwards, sample a couple of tasty mushroom dishes using a variety of cultivated ‘wild’ mushrooms. Please note: Collecting mushrooms on Audubon properties is prohibited. Wear closed-toe shoes, socks and long pants, and dress for the weather.

Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge, 12 Sanderson Road, Smithfield, RI; Fee: $30/member; $40/non-member. Ages: Adult. Register through the events calendar at asri.org/calendar.

Super Blue Moon Walk

Audubon Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge, Smithfield, RI

August 31, 2023; 7:30 – 9:00 pm

Join an Audubon naturalist during August’s Super Blue Moon at Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge. Observe the last of the summer birds as they search for food as some ready to migrate during the nighttime hours. We’ll listen to insects, amphibians, and are occasionally able to hear owls. Wear sturdy shoes/boots, bring bug spray, binoculars, and a flashlight. Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge, 12 Sanderson Road, Smithfield, RI; August 31, 2023; 7:309:00 pm; Fee: $10/member; $14/non-member. Ages: 10 and up. Register through the events calendar at asri.org/calendar.

Foraged Art

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, Bristol, RI

Through August 31, 2023;9:30 am – 4:30 pm

Rebecca Reddy creates her foraged art pieces using items from nature. Nothing is glued or taped in place, it’s all a balancing act. The pieces are photographed, then most items end up in her compost bin, while others are dried and saved for use in future pieces, there are no originals. Sometimes Rebecca has a plan, other times she lets the flowers inspire her. Rebecca’s art will be on display from July 2 through August 31, 2023.

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

Bristol County Veterinary Hospital Welcomes Dr. Laura Sims to Clinical Team

Local Veterinary Team Continues to Expand to Service Growing Need

Bristol County, MA – Bristol County Veterinary Hospital, which offers a variety of veterinary services to pet parents in Seekonk, MA and surrounding areas, is pleased to announce Dr. Laura Sims has joined the clinical team of professionals.

Laura was raised in Owensboro, KY, where she attended Daviess County High School and then went on to attend Kentucky Wesleyan College. She is a 2019 graduate of Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine.

“My love for animals drew me into veterinary medicine. I’m looking forward to being an added resource for the community as they seek quality care in Bristol Country,” said Dr. Sims, who joined the practice in June.

Dr. Sims is a pet parent herself with two cats (Caspian and Lucy), two dogs (Zelda and Fish), a bearded dragon (Alex), and a goldfish (T-swizz).

She looks forward to continuing her career alongside the team at Bristol County Veterinary. For more information about the practice and/or other open positions, please visit: https://bristolcountyvet. com/

About Bristol County Vet

Bristol County Veterinary Hospital offers complete care for pets. Services provided include pet dentistry, pet wellness & diagnostic exams, pet laboratory, pet radiology & ultrasound, pet specialty services and pet vaccinations. The practice also offers an online pharmacy and a client center full of added resources. Bristol County Veterinary Hospital (BCVH) has also been an AmeriVet partner since 2018. This partnership provides BCVH and over 200 other veterinary clinics and hospitals with best-in-class resources and operational support. For more information, visit AmeriVet.com.

DCR Firefighter From Rehoboth Returns From 2-Week Deployment

Fighting Wildfires In Quebec

Nicholas Burnett, a Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) wildland firefighter from Rehoboth, just returned home from a deployment to Quebec, Canada, where he was fighting some of the more than 70 wildfires that have been raging for the last few months.

Nicholas was part of a crew of 16 wildland firefighters – 14 from DCR and two from MassWildlife – who were joined by four additional firefighters from Connecticut and one from Vermont on their trip up to Canada. The crew spent about 14 days working directly on the fire line in Quebec – building fire breaks, securing fire perimeters, containing fires and protecting structures.

The crew followed an 11-member crew of DCR firefighters who deployed for Quebec on June 15 and returned home on Friday, June 30.

f you are interested, we are happy to arrange an interview with Nicholas to learn about his experience and the important work his crew did to aid our neighbors in the north. You can also learn more about DCR’s Forest Fire Control Program here.

University News

Rehoboth Resident Makes

Keene State Dean’s List

KEENE, N.H. (June 23, 2023) — Matthew Proctor of Rehoboth, Massachusetts, has been named to the Dean’s List at Keene State College for the Spring 2023 semester.

A rising junior, Proctor is a Construction Management major. This degree prepares students for a leadership role in the design/ build process as a Construction Manager.

He is the son of Marlene and Robert Proctor of Rehoboth.

Local Students Named to Spring 2023 President’s List at Plymouth State University

Plymouth, NH -- Plymouth State University recognizes the students who have made the President’s List for the Spring 2023 semester. To be named to the President’s List, a student must achieve a grade point average of 3.7 or better for the Spring 2023 semester and must have attempted at least 12 credit hours during the semester.

The following local students made the list:

Seekonk: David Holden is majoring in Physical Education; Lauren Kerwin is majoring in Environmental Science & Policy, Jack Tortolani is majoring in Management

Rehoboth: Quincey Munson is majoring in Social Work

Bailey Adams Joins Stonehill College Chapel Choir in Italy

Easton, MA -- Bailey Adams of Seekonk, MA, recently traveled to Italy as part of a pilgrimage sponsored by the Stonehill College Chapel Choir.

While abroad, the choir shared their musical talents with parishioners at St. Peter’s Basilica, considered one of the holiest sites in the world. They also performed at the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi and the Basilica of the Twelve Holy Apostles in Rome. Before returning to the United States, the students represented the College at a Papal Audience, joining thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square to see Pope Francis.

UT Student, Jason Deslauriers, of Seekonk, Earned Dean’s List Honors

Tampa, FL -- Jason Deslauriers, of Seekonk, earned dean’s list honors at The University of Tampa for the Spring 2023 semester. Deslauriers is a Freshman majoring in Graphic Design-PRE. Students must maintain a GPA of 3.75 or higher to be eligible for the dean’s list.

Dominic Mauretti Named to Hamilton College

Spring 2023 Dean’s List

Clinton, NY -- Dominic Mauretti, of Rehoboth, has been named to the Dean’s List at Hamilton College for the spring 2023 semester.

Holy Cross Announces Spring 2023 Dean’s List

Worcester, MA -- Local students were named to the College of the Holy Cross’ Dean’s List for outstanding academic achievement during the spring semester of the 2022-23 academic year. The following local students made the list:

• Nathan Howard of Rehoboth, Class of 2025

• Kate Leinson of Seekonk, Class of 2026

University of Maine announces

Spring 2023 Dean’s List

The University of Maine recognized 3,016 students for achieving Dean’s List honors in the spring 2023 semester.

From Rehoboth: Owen Hebda, Jack McCann, Sabina Myers

Bryant

University Students Named to Spring 2023 Dean’s 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 spring 2023 Dean’s List. Congratulations to all on this outstanding achievement!

Rehoboth: Kara Bisbano, Peter Day, Jake Johnson

Seekonk: Emily Ferrick

Kylie Palmer earns a spot on the Dean’s List at Coastal Carolina University

Conway, SC -- More than 2,400 undergraduate students at Coastal Carolina University were named to the Dean’s List for the Spring 2023 semester, including Kylie Palmer, from Rehoboth, MA (02769). Students who make the Dean’s List have achieved a grade point average of 3.5 or higher (3.25 for freshmen) for the semester.

BI-STATE PEST CONTROL

More than 1,000 students make Spring 2023 President’s List at Coastal Carolina University

Conway, SC -- More than 1,000 students earned a spot on the President’s List for the Spring 2023 semester at Coastal Carolina University. Students who made the President’s List have achieved a 4.0 grade point average during the semester. Those earning this honor include:

• Lauren DeCoste of Rehoboth, MA

• Mia DiPippo of Seekonk, MA

Local Students Graduate from the University of Vermont

Burlington, VT -- UVM President Suresh Garimella conferred degrees on an estimated 3,383 graduates at the university’s 222nd Commencement ceremony. Speaking on the spirit of excellence, the Honorable Sethuraman Panchanathan, director of the U.S. National Science Foundation, delivered the keynote address.

The following local students earned bachelor’s degrees:

• Collin Brown of Seekonk graduated from the University of Vermont with a bachelor’s in Biological Science.

• Ariel Nault of Seekonk graduated from the University of Vermont with a bachelor’s in Biology.

• Nicole Simas of Seekonk graduated from the University of Vermont with a bachelor’s in Animal Sciences.

• Bethany Smith of Seekonk graduated from the University of Vermont with a bachelor’s in Wildlife and Fisheries Biology.

Ethan Leland of Rehoboth Named to the University of Hartford’s Dean’s List

West Hartford, CT (07/21/2023)-- The University of Hartford is pleased to announce Ethan Leland of Rehoboth has been named to the Dean’s List for Spring 2023.

Heather Simpson of Rehoboth Graduates from William James College

Newton, MA -- Heather Simpson of Rehoboth has successfully graduated with a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling as a member of William James College’s class of 2023.

Roger Williams University Announces 2023 Graduates

Bristol, RI -- The following students received their degrees in May as part of the Class of 2023.

Rehoboth:

• Elias Carr, BS Construction Mgmt

• Benjamin Dubois, BS Accounting

• Andrew Gouveia, BS Architecture

• Matthew Herman, BS Architecture

• Rebecca Thompson, Master of Architecture

Seekonk:

• Devon Bento, BS Management

• Kimberly Machado, AA Liberal Arts

Dave Says...

* Dave Ramsey is an eight-time national bestselling author, personal finance expert and host of The Ramsey Show. He has appeared on Good Morning America, CBS This Morning, Today, Fox News, CNN, Fox Business and many more. Since 1992, Dave has helped people take control of their money, build wealth and enhance their lives. He also serves as CEO for the company Ramsey Solutions.

Let’s Shift the Focus

Dear Dave,

I graduated from college six years ago with a business degree. Currently, I’m in data analytics making about $40,000 a year and have $155,000 in student loan debt. Do you have any recommendations as far as refinancing my student loans and getting the interest rates and monthly payments down?

— Austin

Dear Austin,

I’m not trying to be mean here, but what in the world are you doing in data analytics that pays so poorly? Most of the folks I know in that area make a ton more. And you’re going to need to start making a whole lot more to pay off $155,000 in student loans.

For starters, you shouldn’t be looking at this from a what-can-I-do-to-make-thismanageable perspective. You don’t want to give this Sallie Mae nightmare a haircut, then tell her to sit in the corner all nice and pretty. You want her to leave! Now, there’s nothing inherently wrong with refinancing to get a lower interest rate, or lower payments, if you do it the right way. But in most cases that translates into keeping the debt around forever. You need a better plan.

Instead, let’s shift the main goal from that to paying this thing off as fast as possible. That means big, hairy chunks of payments on the principal. And that’ll probably mean picking up an extra job or two, because right now you’ve got what I call a shovel-to-hole ratio problem. The hole you’re in is a big one—a $155,000 one. And you’re working with a $40,000 shovel. You need a bigger shovel, and a lot of extra work, instead of trying to keep these loans around like they’re pets. What can you do—for a short period of time—that’s legal, moral and will make you the most money the fastest?

On the day job side of things, you may want to consider looking for a position with a different company, Austin. You’re way underpaid if you’re in data analytics and making just $40,000 a year.

Good luck!

— Dave

Love Them Enough to Teach Them Well

Dear Dave,

My husband and I are having arguments about money where our children are concerned. They are both 16, and I think they should have part-time jobs and be learning the value of work. He feels they’re only young once and wants them to enjoy being teenagers. He also gives them money anytime they ask. I want our kids to have fun, too, but this is beginning to cause tension in our relationship. I’d love your advice.

— Kaytee

Dear Kaytee,

I understand your concern. I’m sure your husband has a good heart, but by doing this he’s acting like a friend instead of a parent. In the process, he’s allowing them to be nothing but takers and consumers. He’s setting them both up for lifetimes of helplessness and ridiculous expectations without realizing it.

continued on next page...

But yes, kids should absolutely learn to work, make money and manage it wisely from an early age. My wife and I gave nice gifts to our kids from time to time, but they also worked and made money for themselves. And the nicer gifts we gave them were for special occasions. Even then we didn’t go crazy with things. Still, the biggest problem you and your husband are experiencing is a communication breakdown. Your husband should stop being so impulsive, and grow a backbone where the kids are concerned. You’ve recognized this—and you’re right about it—so it’s up to you to take the first step in finding a solution.

Try sitting down with him, just the two of you, and sincerely explaining your feelings. Let him know you love him and how generous he is. But let him know, too, you’re worried this is having a negative impact on your children and why. Talk it out, openly and honestly, and try to agree on some changes together. There’s a middle ground here, but it’s going to take some time and effort from both of you to reach it.

Most of all, it means you two will have to communicate with each other like mature, caring adults, and pull together for the sake of your kids. It might be difficult at first, but it’ll be worth it in the long run. For you and them.

Thanks, Kaytee!

— Dave

Find an Advisor with the Heart of a Teacher

Dear Dave,

I’m a widow, and I retired recently. My husband took care of most of our finances. We never had any debt, but after my husband died and I started learning a little bit more about how money works, I’m concerned too much of it may be invested in CDs. The total nest egg is a little over $1.5 million, with $300,000 of that in CDs. There’s also a $317,000 annuity, a 403(b) and around $900,000 in IRA mutual funds. I want to learn even more about financial matters, so how do you think I should handle things going forward?

— Naomi

Dear Naomi,

Well, the CDs (Certificates of Deposit) give you stability, if nothing else. They’re generally considered a safe, low-risk investment, but they don’t really give you the best bang for your bucks. If you’ve had good luck with a variable annuity, that’s fine, too. It sounds like you’ve also been very fortunate with your mutual fund investing. So, with all this money in different areas, you’re definitely diversified.

In my mind, it’s just a matter now of wrapping your arms around it all and developing a deeper understanding of things going forward. I’d urge you to find an investment professional in your area with the heart of a teacher. I’m talking about someone who wants to help people, and is interested in more than just making money off fees or commissions.

It sounds like you understand the value of learning about this stuff, and I’m really impressed by that. It’s a smart and necessary thing. From here on out, every time you see an investment person— whoever it may be—your goal should be to leave the room smarter, and with more financial understanding, than you had before.

Naomi, I’m truly sorry about your husband. But you two did an amazing job with your finances over the years. You’re worth well over $1.5 million, and you have no debt. So, you’re basically set for life.

Be wise, and be careful, Naomi. God bless you.

— Dave

Different Personality Types Can Be a Good Thing

Dave,

My husband is an entrepreneur. He has a very hard driving, energetic personality and way of doing things, while I’m more laid back and soft spoken. How can I support him best in terms of encouraging and communicating with him? I want him to know I care, that I want to help and that I’m proud of him.

— Grace

Grace,

I think you’ve already taken a good first step toward all of that by recognizing and identifying your personality styles. If he’s a hard-charging entrepreneur, there’s a good chance God sent you into his life to slow him down a little, and help him keep it between the ditches. That’s what my wife does for me, and I’m so thankful she does.

Once in a while, I’ll get so wrapped up in a project or opportunity that I can’t stop thinking about it or turn it loose—even after hours or on weekends. That’s when she knows to step in and say, “Honey, did you ever think about this possibility?” Sometimes she’s a little more straightforward, and I’ll hear something like, “You know, you really need to just slow down and chill.”

The fact that you two are wired a little differently, and that you can be thoughtful and calm when he’s all over the place, is one of the most valuable benefits you bring to your relationship. Once he understands this, he’ll begin to respect it more. And when it happens, you folks are going to win in your relationship and in business. It’s going to make such a positive impact on your lives, because you’ll be making steady progress that’s more predictable and reasonable, rather than things launching into the stratosphere and being followed by the inevitable crashes that are bound to happen from time to time.

As you grow to better understand the other’s thinking, and how each is necessary for success, a great thing will be created. Your quieter, thoughtful side, and his energy and passion to pull things forward, will become the key to you two reaching heights together that you never would’ve achieved apart from each other.

I love these discussions about family relationships and business. Great question, Grace!

— Dave

You Need a Better Plan

Dear Dave,

My husband recently opened his own commercial painting company. We know he will have three months or so every year when he’s making very little, if any, income. We also started following your plan recently, too, and have $1,000 set aside for our starter emergency fund. We were ready to begin paying off all our debt except our home in Baby Step 2, but now he wants to skip that, and move to Baby Step 3 to build a fully funded emergency fund of three to six months of expenses. I think I know why he feels this way, but would you give me your thoughts?

— Crystal

Dear Crystal,

Your husband’s excited about the new business. I get that. And in his own way, it sounds like he’s trying to make sure there’s extra money on hand for the down months he may experience as a commercial painter. But I wouldn’t advise this approach, not for his business, and not for your family’s finances.

Baby Step 3 is an emergency fund of three to six months of expenses. The scenario he wants to plan for, however, isn’t an emergency. He knows it’s coming. It’s the same with things like Christmas, birthdays and stuff like that. You know they’re coming, and you even know which months and days. Things like that aren’t

emergencies, and they don’t catch anyone by surprise. They’re things you plan for—and budget for—ahead of time.

But the first thing your husband needs to do is re-work his business model. He needs something to do during the down months, so that his income doesn’t dry up completely. Setting money aside in a business for an expected down time is smart, but it’s not a Baby Step 3 issue. It would be a line in the budget where you set money aside because you know something’s coming.

Again, if it’s something predictable, something that happens at the same time every year, it is not an emergency. If you want to budget some household money for the down time, that’s fine. But do you know what would be even smarter? Figuring out a plan for this time, based on his skill set, which will allow him to keep earning money!

— Dave

Seekonk Knights Seek Vendors for The Annual Craft Fair

Seekonk Knights of Columbus is seeking vendors/sellers for their charity craft fair on Saturday, October 21 from 10 am - 2 pm at the Seekonk Knights of Columbus Hall, 532 Arcade Ave., Seekonk, MA 02771. Last year was a sellout; so don’t wait.

Outdoor lots - 15 ft x 30 ft. - are $25 each which will accommodate a vendor’s vehicle and pop-up canopy.

Indoor table spaces are $25 each and include an 8 ft. table with setup and breakdown assistance.

PayPal remittance is available. Please contact the K of C as soon as possible at 508.336.7952 to reserve your space.

For more information, visit us on Facebook.

Rain date is Sunday, October 22, 2023.

Community Covenant Church’s MOPs (Mothers of Preschoolers) News

Community Covenant Church’s MOPs (Mothers of Preschoolers) group will be breaking from our normal 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month morning gatherings and instead getting together for various playdates in the surrounding community in July and August. We will be relaunching our regular scheduled meetings in September.

Check out the website: https://www.mops.org/groups/c3mops

We will be updating that page with a calendar of events.

We’d love to have you and your littles check it out and then consider joining us in the fall.

Kiwanis of Greater Seekonk awards Scholarships

Kiwanis of Greater Seekonk awards three $1000 scholarships to the Key Club at Seekonk High School.

These three members have incredible school records and awards. They are constantly involved in community service, which is what Kiwanis is all about.

The three recipients are Hannan Baldassi, Sarah DeMelo, and Ashly Gasior.

• Hannah will be studying Marine Biology at Rogers Williams University.

• Sarah will be studying to be a Neurology Nurse Practitioner at the University of New Hampshire.

• Ashly will be studying to be a Neurosurgeon at the University of Connecticut.

All of us at Kiwanis are very impressed with these three women and we wish them every happiness and a rewarding and successful career.

We would also like to thank them for all of their many hours in the Key Club.

Best wishes to you all!

Kiwanis of Greater Seekonk.

Ashly Gasior

Hannah Baldassi

Sarah DeMelo

Events

at the Seekonk American Legion Post 311

351 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA 02771

508-336-9822

Chicken BBQ on Saturday, August 19th

Come on down to the Seekonk American Legion for a Chicken BBQ put on by the Sons of the American Legion on 8/19 at 2 pm. $20.00 donation. Meal includes ½ chicken, corn, baked beans, rolls w/butter and salads. Advanced tickets available at the Post. The Post is located at 351 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA. For additional information please call 508-336-9822.

Pig

Roast

– Sept 9th

Professional pig roast with all the fixings (baked beans, potato salad, corn, etc). Being held on Sept 9th at 2 pm at the Seekonk American Legion. Donation of $20.00. Advanced tickets available at the Post. Located at 351 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA. For additional information and tickets please call 508-336-9822.

Paint Party to benefit “Service Dogs for Veterans” Sept

17th

A Painting Party will be held on Sunday, September 17th at the Seekonk American Legion located at 351 Fall River Ave, 2nd floor, Seekonk, MA. We will be painting on canvas. Doors open at noon with painting starting at 1 pm. Tickets include all materials and one free beverage. There will be a cash bar.

Reservations must be made in advance by September 3rd in the amount of $35.00 per person, ages 16 and up. Please make checks/money orders payable to: American Legion Auxiliary, Unit 311 and mail to Donna Reed, 29 Lanesboro St, Pawtucket, RI 02861. Tickets are nonrefundable and will be mailed upon receipt of reservation. Please send any questions to auxiliary311@yahoo. com or Donnareedunit311@gmail.com or call/text Donna at 401451-1944. 100% of net proceeds from this event will go to NEADS to train

a Service Dog for a Veteran.

Fall Psychic Fair – October 8th

We will be holding our Fall Psychic Fair on Sunday, 10/8/23 at the Seekonk American Legion located at 351 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA. Admission is free. 15-minute readings are $20.00 each. There will also be several Vendors and 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 Kathy at 401-434-8917 or send email to auxiliary311@yahoo.com.

Seekonk American Legion is Accepting Donations for Operation Stand Down Rhode Island To help Homeless and At Risk Veterans

Operation Stand Down Rhode Island’s mission is to help homeless and at-risk veterans. It has provided thousands of veterans with access to important services including health, dental, and substance abuse care, as well as employment, legal, and housing services since 1993.

Each year OSDRI holds a two day outreach event at 1010 Hartford Ave, Johnston, RI. This year the event will be held Thursday, 9/15 and Friday, 9/16.

The Seekonk Legion Family will be setting up a table to distribute socks and underwear to the male and female Veterans who attend the event. We are accepting donations of new socks and underwear from the community. A donation box is located downstairs at the American Legion Post located at 351 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA. For more information you can contact us at 508-336-9822 or auxiliary311@yahoo.com. For more information on Operation Stand Down, please visit their website at www.osdri.org.

Music

at the Seekonk American Legion

• Friday Night Bands – starts at 8 pm

• Rock A Blues – 8/11

• Rock A Blues – 9/8

Hornbine School Museum

The Hornbine School Museum has “Old Fashioned Games” for children to play as well as other activities inside. We will be open to the public on Sunday, August 13th and 27th from 2 – 4 p.m. We are located at 144 Hornbine Road in Rehoboth. Follow us on Facebook at “Hornbine School Museum”.

We hope you enjoy receiving The Reporter every month! Support the Local Businesses that make this all possible!

News from the Rehoboth Lions

On June 25th, the Rehoboth Lions held our annual President’s Picnic, which is also when we traditionally swear in the upcoming Lion Year’s officers. Our event was held by our gracious host Lion Jay Crandall and his wonderful wife Brenda - All of us thank you for the hospitality!! The threat of rain held off, and we had a wonderful ceremony led by Lion Mike Salois. Officers for the 2023-2024 year are:

President - Henry Pires

1st VP - Don Nokes

2nd VP - Arthur Almedia

Secretary - Bill Cute

Treasurer - Vinny McKenna

Tail Twister - Mike Barger

Lion Tamer - Steve Brasier

401-722-8132

• PVC

• Custom Cedar

• Farm Fencing

• Dog Runs

• Chain Link

• Ornamental Aluminum

• Arbors

Specializing in a Variety of Fencing Styles

2022-2023 President Mike Barger had the distinct pleasure of honoring 2 of our members with the highest recognition given to a Lion member - The Melvin Jones award. The Melvin Jones Awards ranks with the Lions Humanitarian Award, which is the highest honor of the association given to an individual or an organization with exemplary humanitarian efforts. Our 2 honorees were Steven Brasier and Scott Lacourse. Congratulations Gentlemen!

Though July and August are traditionally “slow months” for fundraising events, Lions are busy at work behind the scenes with all the planning for this coming years events. First, the 34th Annual Rehoboth Lions Golf Tournament, dedicated to the memory of Ray Dyer, will be held on Sunday, October 15th at the Swansea Country Club. Sponsor and player spots sell out each year for this event, so if you are interested, please contact us ASAP. For more information, please visit the Rehoboth Lions website at https://rehobothlions. org/, or reach out to either Don Nokes or Scott Lacourse, co-chairs of this year’s event.

Don Nokes (401-255-3666) - Scott Lacourse (774-203-8653)

Clamboils will be back in September - the first Wednesday of the month. September 6, October 4, and November 1. They are always a sellout event, so if interested - ask any Lion for tickets, or visit our website.

It’s sure to be another exciting year - and remember, every penny the Lions raise goes to charity!

If you are interested in becoming a Lion, just reach out to Scott Lacourse (slacourse@gmail.com) or Mike Salois (mgsc@comcast. net).

Have a great rest of the summer, and look forward to seeing you all in September!

We Serve!

“Hands-On History”: Corn Husk Doll Workshop

Calling kids of all ages! September is harvest time in Rehoboth! Join us at the Carpenter Museum on Saturday, September 23rd at 10 AM and make your own corn husk doll to take home.

Corn husk doll crafting will be the third installment in the Carpenter Museum’s 2023 “Hands-On History” Workshop Series. Learn about the crucial role that corn played in the lives of people who lived here in the past. Not only a vital food source, corn plants were used in the construction of many household objects. They also served as an ideal material for making children’s toys! We will discuss the historical importance of corn, as well as the history of children’s games, toys, and play in early New England, as we craft our own corn husk dolls to take home. This workshop is geared toward school age children in grades 2-12. Members register children for free! Non-member fee is $10. Looking for an activity geared toward adults? Register for our fiber arts workshop on August 12th and keep an eye out for our final 2023 workshop in November (date TBD).

To sign up for this event or to become a member, call the Carpenter Museum at (508)252-3031 or visit our 2023 Workshop Series page rehobothantiquarian.org/2023-workshop-series.

About the Carpenter Museum:

The Carpenter Museum, named in honor of major benefactors Elsie Carpenter and her son E. Winsor Carpenter, is Rehoboth’s local history museum. Our mission is to collect, document, preserve, and share material culture related to the town’s history. We connect the Rehoboth community with these artifacts and with local history in general through our exhibits and programming. The Museum provides the wider community with research support, especially in the area of genealogy, and promotes learning about American history through direct experience with objects from the past.

and Washington National Opera, the Center is one of the nation’s busiest performing arts centers dedicated to providing world-class art, powerful education, and outstanding memorial experiences to the broadest possible constituency.

The Chorus of East Providence is featured among several accomplished ensembles selected to perform in this historic tribute to America’s heroes past and present. They will be joined by some of the nation’s finest orchestral players from the United States Air Force Symphony Orchestra and featured vocal soloists under the direction of Dr. Craig Jessop, former music director of The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square.

The National Memorial Day Choral Festival is produced and presented by Music Celebrations International, LLC. For more information, visit musiccelebrations.com or call (800) 395-2036.

The Chorus of East Providence was incorporated in 2007 as a non-profit organization. Its mission is to educate it members and the public about music and choral singing while fostering an appreciation of music by all, enhancing the cultural life of the community. They are the proud recipient of a Champlin Foundation Grant, as well as several RI State Legislative Grants. They have performed in Ireland in 2017 and Carnegie Hall in New York City in 2018. They perform two major concerts a year to the public, as well as additional smaller performances upon request.

The Chorus rehearses at St. Martha’s Church in East Providence, RI on Tuesday nights from 7:00-9:15. There will be three Open Sing nights on September 12, 19, 26, 2023 for anyone interested in learning more about the Chorus or would like to join the group.

CARLSON TREE

The Chorus of East Providence to Perform at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington DC

The Chorus of East Providence has been invited to participate in the 2024 National Memorial Day Choral Festival in Washington, D.C. in commemoration of the 80 th anniversary of D-Day and the liberation of France. This patriotic, choral-orchestral spectacle will take place in the concert hall of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on May 26, 2024.

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is America’s living memorial to President John F. Kennedy, attracting millions of visitors each year to more than 2,000 performances, events, and exhibits. With its artistic affiliates, the National Symphony Orchestra

Corn Husk Dolls

American Legion Post 302 Public Events

• Now serving Baked Scrod on Thursdays 4:00 till 7:00 P.M. & Fridays 4:00 – 8 PM. Our kitchen remodeling for Fish & Chips should be open by Labor Day Weekend. Take Outs are welcome – call in your order in early for pickup at 508-252-9079

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

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

StoneScapeS

Specializing in all styles of stone masonry with over 35 years experience

• STONEWALLS • FIREPLACES

• PATIOS • WALKWAYS

Call for a free estimate

MARK CARVALHO • (774) 229-6360

www.stonescapes1.com

Take Back Your Yard

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

Upcoming Events

• August 11th, 2023 - Friday - 7:00 - 10:00 P.M., On3 Entertainment, Classic Rock – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/

• August 13th, 2023 – Sunday -7:30-10:30 A.M. American Legion & Anawan Lions Monthly Breakfast, Second Sunday of every month $12.00 donation - All you can Eat! https://www.facebook. com/groups/657024961125913/

• August 18th, 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 – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063368911454

• August 25th, 2023 – Friday - 7:00 - 8:00 P.M., Sons of the American Legion’s Monthly Meat Raffle followed by Karaoke - 8:0011:00 P.M. – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/

• August 25th, 2023 – Friday - 8:00-11:00 P.M. + – Live Karaoke performed by Mette & Devan 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 – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/

• September 1st, 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 – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/

• September 2nd, 2023 – Saturday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – BOMBSHELL BETTY PRODUCTIONS with Live Vocal Music – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Dancing & having a GREAT TIME - https://www.bombshellbettyproductions.com/ https:// www.facebook.com/bombshellbettyproductions/

• September 8th, 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 – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063368911454

• September 9th, 2023 – Saturday - 7:00-10:00 P.M. – Live Music performed by Nightlife Band Entertainment with Classic Rock Music – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https//:www.facebook.com/groups/nightlifebandri/

• September 10th, 2023 – Sunday -7:30-10:30 A.M. American Legion & Anawan Lions Monthly Breakfast, Second Sunday of every month $12.00 donation - All you can Eat! https://www.facebook. com/groups/657024961125913/

• September 15th, 2023 - Friday - 7:00 - 10:00 P.M., Greg Hodde’s Blue Reign, Classic Rock – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart https://open. spotify.com/artist/57RIFB8RMODxF0PXg6vVjT?si=%20HGPY_ GMWTAioT8epLo0GWg&nd=1

• September 16th - Saturday - 7:00-10:00 P.M. – Mike Higgins & The Dynamics - Live Music Entertainment playing Classic, Rock & Country – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League Mike and The Dynamics |Facebook https://www. facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063173623981

• September 22nd, 2023 - Friday - 7:00 - 10:00 P.M.,– Live Music performed by Gutzy Right Duo Entertainment with Classic Rock Music – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Dancing & having a GREAT TIME! https://www.facebook. com/GutzyRight

• September 23rd, 2023 – Saturday - 7:0010:00 P.M. - “Vinyl Frontier Band” from Attleboro Area with Live Music Entertainment playing Classical Rock Music – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Dancing & having a GREAT TIME! https://www. facebook.com/Vinylfrontierband/

• September 29th, 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 - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/

• September 29th, 2023 – Friday - 8:0011:00 P.M. + – Live Karaoke performed by Mette & Devan 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 – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/

• “Special“ SEPTEMBER 30th, 2023 - Saturday – 4:30 - 6:00 P.M. – American Legions

FUNDRAISER Steak Dinner “POST 302 ENHANCEMENTS” with -– Food – Drinks – PLUS + 7:00-10:00 PM - Dancing - Live Music performed by ?? Entertainment with Classical Rock Music https://www. facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/

• October 6th, 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 – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/

• “Special“ OCTOBER 7th, 2023 - Saturday – 4:30 - 7:00 P.M. – American Legions Auxiliary Pasta Dinner with -– Food –

Drinks – PLUS + 7:00-10:00 PM - Dancing - Live Music performed by ?? Entertainment with Classical Rock Music https://www. facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/

• October 7th, 2023 - Saturday - 7:00 - 10:00 P.M., Ghost Cat Rodeo presents Classic County Rock, Music - No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook.com/ ghostcatrodeo/

• October 8th, 2023 – Sunday -7:30 -10:30 A.M. American Legion & Anawan Lions Monthly Breakfast, Second Sunday of every month $12.00 donation - All you can Eat! https://www.facebook. com/groups/657024961125913/

Anderson, 4th Generation of Veader Family

Anniversary in Our New Location

come by and see our award winning new dealerToyota is the only dealer in New England to earn award in customer satisfaction in sales and one of only 6 in the Country to earn the award running ....So if your looking for a new car or truck 500 to choose and over 200 used of all makes and if we don’t have what your looking for we will being our specialty for over 50 years and if you come see what good old fashion service is really years of practice....no appointments necessary lube free pick up and delivery or 30 loaner cars reward points with any service or part purchases

celebrating all the new customers in sales and service. This January marked Ed Veader’s 30th anniversary of his

DO WE OWE YOU FREE SERVICE/REPAIRS?

used of all makes and models and if we don’t have what your looking for we will find it used being our specialty for over 50 years and if you need service come see what good old fashion service is really like over 50 years of practice...no appointments necessary for Express lube free pick up and delivery or 30 loaner cars when needed reward points with any service or part purchases... remember we didn’t become one of New England’s best dealers by saying no bring us your best deal.

we didn’t become one of New England’s best saying no bring us you best deal

the Presidents award in

Seekonk Public Library

Bill Harley Summer Concert

Monday, August 7, 6:30 PM

Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and picnics to Seekonk Meadows to enjoy this final summer concert. This program is free and open to the public:

Local favorite, Bill Harley, needs no introduction. A two-time Grammy award winner, Bill entertains us all with his original music and stories. Entertainment Weekly calls him “the Mark Twain of contemporary children’s music” but it’s hard to say who enjoys his performance more, the kids or the adults! This event is free and open to the public through generous sponsorship by Sturdy Memorial Hospital. Registration is required in case of changes due to weather.

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.

Learn Public Speaking Skills with Poetry

Wednesday, August 9

If even the thought of public speaking makes you uncomfortable, this is the program for you! Join Seekonk resident and poet Joseph Scott in a workshop featuring poetry for public speaking. Find Your Voice with Spoken Poetry will be held at Seekonk Public Library on Wednesday, August 9 at 6 PM. This workshop is designed to help you develop your public speaking skills while exploring the beauty and power of poetry. Whether stories of bravery or tragedy, skillfully crafted verse from great poets has already laid the groundwork for you! Get tips and practice “finding your voice” using the works of such authors as Robert Browning, H.W. Longfellow, Robert Burns, and more. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to enjoy the spoken word and sharpen your skills! Register in the library Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events or by calling Adult Services at 508-336-8230 extension 56130. For more event information, visit www.seekonkpl.org or email library@seekonkpl.org.

Different, Not Dangerous: The Salem Witch Trials

Monday, August 14 at 6:30 PM

What makes an outsider a stranger? What makes a stranger a threat? Come to Seekonk Public Library on Monday, August 14 at 6:30 PM to hear Seekonk High School 9th grader Juliana Centracchio discuss her original novel, Abigail: A Witch of the Woods. Centering around a little-known historical figure, an outspoken teenaged girl named Abigail Hobbs, the novel tracks the events leading up to the Salem Witch Trials and questions the historical and social context that made such horrors possible—even, some might say, inevitable. Q&A and refreshments to follow.

This program is free and open to tweens and teens in rising grades 6 and up as well as adults. Please register through 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.

A Sprinkle of Fun: Summer Wrap-up Party for Tweens and Teens

Thursday, August 17 at 2:00 PM

Let’s finish up an amazing summer with a sweet treat and some friendly competition. Come to Seekonk Public Library on Thursday, August 17 at 2:00 PM for a Summer Wrap-Up Party and Cupcake Decorating Challenge! Using a favorite book or character as inspiration, participants will adorn their cupcakes with frosting, sprinkles, and candy and then vote on their favorite design. Then we’ll eat our frosted works of art with a scoop of ice cream on the side and end the afternoon with some silly party games. Be sure to bring your sweet tooth and your imagination, because a cupcake without icing is good for muffin!

This two-hour event is free and open to tweens and teens in rising grades 6 through 12. Please register through the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events.

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

Nonfiction Book Club: Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents by Isabel Wilkerson

Tuesday, August 29th at 6:00 PM

Join us for a lively discussion of Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents by Isabel Wilkerson on Tuesday, August 29th at 6:00 PM at Seekonk Public Library. The title is available digitally as an ebook and audiobook through Libby, or you may place a hold and pick up a print copy at the library. New members are always welcome!

As we go about our daily lives, caste is the wordless usher in a darkened theater, flashlight cast down in the aisles, guiding us to our assigned seats for a performance. The hierarchy of caste is not about feelings or morality. It is about power--which groups have it and which do not.” In this brilliant book, Isabel Wilkerson gives us a masterful portrait of an unseen phenomenon in America as she explores, through an immersive, deeply researched narrative and stories about real people, how America today and throughout its history has been shaped by a hidden caste system, a rigid hierarchy of human rankings. Linking the caste systems of America, India, and Nazi Germany, Wilkerson explores eight pillars that underlie caste systems across civilizations, including divine will, bloodlines, stigma, and more… Finally, she points forward to ways America can move beyond the artificial and destructive separations of human divisions, toward hope in our common humanity.”-- Provided by publisher.

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

Sun Print Kit and Workshop August 30 at 6 PM

Celebrate nature by capturing the last sunrays of summer and the beginning signs of fall in the Sun Print Workshop on Wednesday, August 30 at 6 PM at the library. For this workshop, you will use cyanotype paper to create a sun print at home and in the workshop you will use the print in a dried flower floating frame. We’ll also look at Creativebug for more crafting inspiration. The sun print kit will be available at the library for pickup August 14 - 21. Space is limited; register with a SAILS library card in the online Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events.

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

Open Game Play with Virtual Reality for Tweens and Teens

Tuesday, September 5 at 3:00 PM

One Up Games, New England’s highest rated game center, is returning to Seekonk Library, this time with a program just for tweens and teens! On Tuesday, September 5 at 3:00 PM, They’ll bring a variety of next-gen consoles and gaming monitors, including Nintendo Switch, XBox Series, PlayStation 4, and Oculus Quest 2 (Virtual Reality), with a mix of popular and classic games to play. Participants will be able to choose which games and systems they want to play and will have a chance to try multiple options.

This 3-hour event is free and open to tweens and teens in grades 6 through 12. Please register through the Events Calendar at www. seekonkpl.org/events. Space is limited, so register early!

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

Teen Advisory Board is Back This Fall!

Thursday, September 7 at 4:00 PM

Your opinion matters! If you’re going into grades 6 through 12 this school year, then you have a chance to make a difference at your library by joining the Teen Advisory Board (TAB). Starting on September 7, we will meet once a month at 4:00 PM to share ideas about upcoming programs and discuss how we can make the most out of the library’s services for tweens and teens. This is an opportunity to practice leadership, collaboration, and civic engagement and to take an active role in shaping the library’s impact on your community. Becoming a member of the board requires a commitment to attend meetings regularly.

If you want to participate, visit seekonkpl.org/teens and download the TAB application. Email the finished application to teens@ seekonkpl.org or turn it in at the Research Help Desk in the Library.

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

News from Friends of the Seekonk Public Library

Our Annual Appeal went out a few weeks ago. We use the donations from our appeal along with our book sales to provide funding for library programs and materials. If you did not receive an envelope there are some in the lobby. or you could pay through PayPal on our website.

If you would like to be a member of the Friends board, we would love to have you. We’re always looking for new ideas and people to help us execute those ideas. You can contact us at friends@ seekonkpl.org.

(508) 222-6573

Children and Family Programs

“Find Your Voice” Summer Reading Challenge.

Ongoing through August 14

It’s summer and Seekonk Library’s Summer Reading Challenge is on! Registration is continuing for Find Your Voice, this year’s summer reading challenge. Sign-up then keep track of how much time is spent reading. Read ‘anything and everything’ because it all counts toward the challenge! What’s the challenge? To read 20 minutes a day! Children register for the program then log their reading time online to get virtual badges, earn “brag tags”, take part in interesting activities and earn raffle tickets for a chance to win one of over 20 raffle prizes.

It’s free to participate and registering for the program is easy by visiting seekonkpl. beanstack.org. If you already have a Beanstack account, then simply log in and select this summer’s reading challenge. Please have your SAILS Library card available when registering. Don’t have a SAILS card? Contact us at childrens@seekonkpl.org or call (508) 336-8230 Sign up, read, log time. Combat summer learning loss with Seekonk Library’s summer reading program for children! Find Your Voice is sponsored by Seekonk Public Library, CSLP, the Massachusetts Library System, the Boston Bruins, and the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners.

Bill Harley Family Concert

Monday, August 7, 6:30 PM

The community is invited to a family concert with Seekonk’s own, Bill Harley! Bill will sing songs and tell stories with the wit and wisdom that he is so well known for. A “not to be missed” concert for all ages with a Grammy Award winning master storyteller and musician. This event is generously sponsored by Sturdy Memorial Hospital. Registration required at seekonkpl.org

Mohegan Seal Coating

Trails & Trail Mix

Tuesday, August 8, 10 AM

We’ll gather in the meeting room at Seekonk Library at 10 AM to make trail mix. Then together we’ll set off on a nature hike in Seekonk Meadows and the Gammino Pond Trails. Led by Seekonk’s new Conservation Agent, Adeline Bellesheim. Registration required at seekonkpl.org. A collaboration between Seekonk Library and the Seekonk Conservation Commission.

I’m Going to Kindergarten

Thursday, August 17, 10 AM

This program is specifically for children entering Kindergarten in the Fall of 2023. We’ll have a special, all-about-kindergarten storytime then head out for a ride around town on a Seekonk School bus. We’ll loop by both Aitken and Martin schools, showing kids where the buses pick up and drop off. Each child will go home with an activity kit to help them prepare for Kindergarten! Register for the waiting list.

STORYTIMES

Storytime in the Meadows: 10 AM, August 11

Join Ms Sharon or Ms Sandie for Summer Storytimes in the gazebo in Seekonk Meadows. There will be stories and bubbles! Please bring your SAILS library card so you may check out books to take home! Drop in. In the case of rain or extreme heat, held indoors

Babies & Books: Tuesday, August 15, 10 AM

Join Miss Sharon for a special storytime just for children ages birth - 2. There will be a story, fingerplays, music, singing and of course, bubbles! Siblings welcome. Drop in. Held indoors.

Rainy Day Movies

If it’s a rainy day in August, call or check the library’s Facebook to see if we’re showing a movie. If we are, everyone is invited to bring a pillow and blanket to sit on and watch a family movie in the meeting room (chairs also available). Movie titles and show times will vary and are announced the morning of. Showings are dependent on room availability. Let it rain!

News and Notes from Blanding Library

By Leslie Patterson

Bee-ing Artful

August 14 is the deadline for anyone who wishes to submit their bee-related artwork to an exhibit at the Blanding this month. There will be an open reception at the library on Aug. 17 from 6:30 to 7:30 and the exhibition will continue until Aug. 22.

This competition is open to all ages. All art must be original and relate to bees in some way. Two entries will be allowed per person. All 2-D submissions must be framed, matted or attached to sturdy backing. Each entrant is eligible to enter a prize drawing. For more information call the library at 508-252-4236.

August Fun for Kids and Families

• Yoga for Families will be offered on Mon. Aug. 7 at 10:30; for all ages.

• Story Time continues for babies and toddlers on Tuesdays from 10:30 to 11 and Story and Craft hours for preschoolers are on Thursdays at 10. Siblings are welcome too. There will be two special musical programs this month:

• Finding Your Voice: Playing the Ukelele on Thurs. Aug. 10 at 11 a.m. Join Julie Stepanek as she shows kids the basics of this easy and fun instrument. For ages 5-9. Older siblings welcome. Registration required.

• Many Voices, Many Songs on Tues. Aug. 15 at 10:30. Special guest Anne-Marie Forer of Tunes and Tales returns with her lively musical program for toddlers. Siblings welcome. No registration needed.

• We thank the Friends of the Blanding Library for their sponsorship of summer programs at the library.

• Fiona the Whale returns to the Blanding at the end of August. Fiona is the 55-foot inflatable whale which will be on exhibit in the hall from 11 to 3 on Tues. Aug. 29 and Wed. Aug. 30, giving kids a chance to crawl into the belly of a whale! There will also be a special whale-related Story and Craft time on Thurs. Aug. 31 at 10:30 and Fiona will be on display until 3 that day.

Calling All Teen Readers!

Young adult/teen readers please note a special display in the Blanding’s Young Adult area downstairs. The MA Teen Choice Book Award program is a cooperative project between the MA School Library Association) and the MA Library Association. It’s the only award in the Bay State that invites students in grades 7-12 to select their top books of the year. All 21 book nominees will be on display to check out and read. Voting will be held Sept. 1 to 22 and will be open to all Massachusetts teens. To learn more, visit the Teen Choice website https://www.mateenchoicebook.org/

Book Sale Coming Up Soon

The Friends of the Blanding Library will hold their annual used book sale at the library the weekend of October 6-8. We are still accepting donations of books in good condition for the sale. Please bring your donations into the library during regular business hours.

The Blanding Public Library, 124 Bay State Rd., is open Monday through Thursday from 10 to 8, and on Fridays and Saturdays from 10 to 4. Closed Sundays and holidays, including Labor Day, Mon. Sept. 4. Phone 508-252-4236 or visit www.blandinglibrary.net for more information.

2023 Concerts at Redway Plain

Rehoboth, Massachusetts

If It Rains, Concerts Will Be Held at Old Francis Farm, 27 Francis Farm Road, Rehoboth, MA.

• August 6th - 5:00 TO 8:00 PM: Wuhon

• August 13th - 5:00 TO 8:00 PM: Misfit Toyz

• August 20th - 5:00 to 8:00 PM: Who Do’s

• August 27th - 4:30 TO 7:30 PM: Conterfeit Cash (Johnny Cash)

• September 3rd - 4:30 TO 7:30 PM: Neil & The Vipers

Concerts are sponsored by the Rehoboth Parks Commission and the Rehoboth Cultural Council. Donations at each concert is greatly appreciated.

Ed the Wizard’s “Magic for Seniors” at Seekonk Senior Center

Wednesday August 16th at 10:30 a.m

Ed the Wizard’s “Magic for Seniors” will be held at the Seekonk Senior Center on Wednesday 16 August starting at 10:30 a.m.

From Mind-Reading to Coins to Cards, there will be something magical for all, including the teaching of easy impromptu magic effects that the patrons can perform for their grandchildren. Be prepared to be amazed, amused, and possibly volunteer, with Ed the Wizard’s award winning performance.

This program is supported in part by a grant from the Seekonk Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.

DRS Hockey Car Wash

Saturday, 9/9/23 9 AM – 2 PM

Knights of Columbus, Arcade Ave., Seekonk

Any donations accepted and goes to benefit 100% parent funded program. Rain Date 9/16

AMERICANA AUCTION

380 Winthrop Street, Rte. 44, Rehoboth, MA

FABULOUS ANTIQUE ESTATE AUCTION

Sunday, August 13th at 11am

Preview Fri & Sat 10am-4pm

LIVE Antique Auction

LIVE Bidding

ONLINE Bidding

Ed Tessier, Jr., Auctioneer

For more information and preview:

www.americana-auction.com

508-771-1722

Antique Tractor Show

Saturday, September 9th 10 A.M. – 3 P.M.

Presented by Rehoboth Historical Commission

Featuring New England Antique Tractor & Truck Association (NEATTA). (Rain Date September 10th)

Redway Plain, Route 44 Rehoboth

Entry Fee: $5.oo per car for historical education and preservation

NEATTA will be accepting canned food donations for the Rehoboth Food Pantry

Tractors, Sponsor Booths, Food Trucks!!

Sponsored by: RDL Equipment & Norfolk Power Equipment

Psychic Fair

September 16, 2023 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Held by American Legion Auxiliary Card Readers & Mediums

Available for 15 minute readings for $20 each Vendors selling various items

American Legion Post 302 84 Bay State Road, Rehoboth, MA

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.

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

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.

Arts in the Village

Arts in the Village, a program under the Rehoboth Antiquarian Society announces its program for the 2023-2024 year. Hear world renowned artists in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere! The five concerts for the year are as follows:

September 23: Andrius Žlabys, pianist

October 28: Southcoast Players, piano quintet

February 24: Schwarz and Bournaki, cello and piano duo

March 16: Vox Cor Trio, piano and brass trio

April 13: Tong and Sheppard, violin and piano duo

All concerts take place Saturday evenings at 7:30 PM in historic Goff Hall in Rehoboth Village, 124 Bay State Road, Rehoboth MA. For more information go to https://rehobothantiquarian.org/ arts-in-the-village.

Artis in the village is a nonprofit 501 (c) (3) organization.

You Are Invited!

Dear Friends:

The GFWC of Greater Taunton Woman’s Club members would like to thank you for all you have contributed to our club to help serve the Taunton Community. Many of you have donated time to attending and contributing to our fundraising events. Your donations of gift certificates, food, free advertising, or other resources to help assist us with our club donations to worthwhile clubs, scholarships and programs within the Greater Taunton area are greatly appreciated. Our club has 30 members from Taunton and eleven surrounding communities including: Assonet, Berkley, Bridgewater, Brockton, Dighton, Freetown, Middleboro, Norton, Raynham, Rehoboth, and Somerset. Our club’s resolute members continue to serve their communities through these resources. Over a span of seventy-five years, we have been able to donate thousands in the form of scholarships, grants and in-kind donations to children and adult sponsored programs.

To show our appreciation we are inviting you to our Friendsgiving on Sunday August 6th from noon to 3:00pm at the PACC (Portuguese American Civic Club) on 175 School Street in Taunton. We hope you can find the time to attend this event to allow us to thank you for all you have done for our club and surrounding communities. Please respond with the enclosed response card: if you would like to say a few words please make note of such on the response card.

Sincerely,

GFWC Greater Taunton Woman’s Club

www.gfwcgreatertauntonwomen.org

GFWC Greater Taunton

Woman’s ClubFriendsgiving

August 6th Noon to 3:00pm

PACC (Portuguese-American Civic Club) 175 School Street Taunton, MA

Name: ___________________________

Number in attendance: ______________

Do you wish to speak: (yes or no?) _____

Come

Looff Arts Festival

Saturday

AUGUST 12, 2023

12pm-6pm ( Rain Date, August 13 )

* Free admission *

Fine Art Paintings, Pottery, Jewelry, Sculptures, Textiles, Art Tiles, Authors, Dancers, Drummers, Glassware, Leather, Great Music, Food Trucks, Big Nazo, and much more !

Music by Superchief Trio, Down City, Hit Rewind, Roger Cerisi and the All Stars, Liquid Courage, and the RI Folk Fest Local Musicians showcase.

700 Bullocks Point Avenue, Riverside, RI

www.EastProvidenceArtsRI.org EPArtsCouncil@gmail.com

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 can’t make it to the building, 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

Summer Office Hours

The church office will be open Tuesday – Friday | 9 AM – 1 PM

Rally Day & Backpack Blessing | Sunday, September 10 @ 10AM

Join the Rehoboth Congregational Church as we begin our program year. Church school resumes and the choir is back!

If you would like to register your children for the nursery, church school, or youth group please do so at the following link: https:// www.rehobothcongregational.org/churchschool.html

Bible Study

Every Thursday at 10:00 AM in our Fellowship Hall

Save The Date

Annual Christmas Bazaar – Friday, November 3rd & Saturday, November 4th – More Details to Come

Seekonk Congregational Church 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.

Our church school continues through the summer 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.

September Worship Service Updates

Beginning on Sunday September 17th we will resume 2 services each Sunday. The 1st at 9 AM, the 2nd at 10:30 AM. Communion will be served at each service. Church school will be held during the 9 AM service with licensed day care available for both services. We invite you to join us.

Vacation Bible School

Mark your calendars for August 7 – 11, 2023 8:45 to 12:15 each day for VBS 2023. The theme this year is GO GREEN. Ages preschool – 6th grade for $25 for the week. 7th grade and older will serve as VBS Helpers. All are welcome, you do not need to be a member to attend vacation bible school. For information contact Kristin at 774-991-1555.

New Member Seminar

If you have been attending SCC-UCC and would like to join the church as a member, there will be a new member seminar on Sept 24th at 11 AM

Please make note of all our upcoming services and activities:

08/06/23 Worship Service 9:30 AM

08/13/23 Worship Service 9:30 AM

08/20/23 Worship Service 9:30 AM

08/27/23 Worship Service 9:30 AM

09/03/23 Worship Service 9:30 AM

09/10/23 Worship Service 9:30 AM

09/17/23 2 Worship Services 9 AM & 10:30 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.

Inside Flea Market!!

Saturday, August 5, 2023 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

St. Nicholas of Myra Church, Parish Center

499 Spring Street, North Dighton

Air Conditioned Hall

$15/Table (8 ft.) and Space Rentals

Reservations required

Kitchen Open for Breakfast & Lunch Call 508-822-1425

Community Covenant Church News

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

September - Racial Justice Book Discussion

As part of Newman Congregational Church, United Church of Christ’s ongoing commitment to education and dialogue on structural racism and white supremacy, we invite the wider community to participate in our monthly book discussions.

The book group meets using the Zoom platform on Monday evenings from 7pm to 8:30pm EST over three consecutive weeks.

Our September discussion of “Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents” by Isabel Wilkerson will be held on the following three consecutive Monday evenings; September 11, 18, & 25. The book is quite extensive so we wanted to give participants ample time to dig into it.

Interested in participating? Visit our website to register at newmanucc.org/ministries/racial-justice.

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

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

39th Annual Members’ Show and Celebration!

At the DeBlois Gallery August 5th-27th, 2023

Opening Reception Saturday August 5th, 5-7 PM Gallery Night Thursday August 10th, 5-7 PM

Please join the members of the DeBlois Gallery as we celebrate 39 years of providing art exhibits to the community of Newport County and beyond! Our non-profit cooperative of 17 artists will share a variety of new work, including 2D prints, oil, acrylic and collage as well as 3D sculpture in ceramics, cast paper, and assemblage.

The theme of our August Annual Members Show will be “No Boundaries”. DeBlois is known as a gallery that exhibits and is open to a wide range of artistic styles, so our members are jumping at the chance to stretch their creative limits and share their most recent work!

Come celebrate with us, and THANK YOU, friends of the gallery! Follow us on social media for specific dates, times, and artists featured in these events.

Website: www.debloisgallery.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/debloisgallery/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/debloisgallery1

The DeBlois Gallery is located at 134 Aquidneck Avenue in Middletown and is open 1-5 PM Wednesday through Sunday. All welcome; ample, free parking!

For more information, contact Michael Day, dr.mday@gmail. com.

Chateau-sur-Mer to Debut New Audio Tour

NEWPORT, R.I. – When Chateau-sur-Mer opens for tours starting July 31, visitors will be guided by an audio tour for the first time.

From the Library with its elaborate carved wood paneling to the Dining Room with its silvered leather wall coverings to the Stair Hall with its “Tree of Life” mural, the new self-guided audio tour will bring the mansion to life. Visitors will hear about the people who lived and worked in this masterpiece of High Victorian architecture and taste as well as interesting details about the décor and furnishings.

“Chateau-sur-Mer has a complex history and many unusual design elements, and this tour will help guests to understand the house better,” said Trudy Coxe, CEO of The Preservation Society of Newport County. “We hope the new audio tour draws more people to discover its unique beauty and charm.”

Chateau-sur-Mer, a National Historic Landmark, was the most palatial residence in Newport from its opening in 1852 until the 1890s, when Marble House, Ochre Court and The Breakers were built. It was the home of the Wetmore family until 1966. The Preservation Society acquired the house in 1969.

This is the fifth of the Preservation Society’s houses to offer an audio tour to visitors; the others are The Breakers, Marble House, The Elms and Rosecliff. Visitors download the free Newport Mansions app to their mobile devices and listen using their own earphones.

Chateau-sur-Mer will be open daily from July 31 through October 1.

In addition, Chepstow, another of the Preservation Society’s historic house museums, will be open Saturdays and Sundays through the month of August. Guide-led tours will be offered several times each day. Built in 1860, Chepstow is an Italianate-style villa with a significant collection of furnishings and 19th-century American paintings.

For more information and the full Newport Mansions operating schedule, go to www.NewportMansions.org.

The Preservation Society of Newport County, Rhode Island, is a nonprofit organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. It is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the area’s historic architecture, landscapes, decorative arts and social history. Its 11 historic properties – seven of them National Historic Landmarks – span more than 250 years of American architectural and social development.

For more information, please visit www.NewportMansions.org.

Girl Scout Troop 507

Noelle Blais working on Girl Scout Silver Award

Rehoboth Pet Pantry Opening August 12th

Noelle Blais from troop 494 has been working on her Girl Scout Silver Award for the Rehoboth Animal Shelter. The Rehoboth Pet Pantry has been painted blue with white trim. The shelves and peg board to hang leashes and collars has been installed. The community opening is scheduled for Saturday, August 12 at 10:30 AM. Everyone is invited and donations are welcome!

Girl Scout Troop 507 enjoyed a trip to the Seekonk Fire Department where they earned their safety pins and learned so much more. Thank you to the Seekonk Fire Department!

SECURE 2.0 RMD Changes

The IRS requires that you begin taking distributions from retirement plans at a certain age. This is known as your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) age. Not too long ago, you did not need to begin your RMD until age 70 ½. In 2019, Congress changed the RMD date to age 72. In the final hours of 2022, Congress changed the RMD age yet again as part of the SECURE 2.0 Act! If you were born 1951 to 1958, your new RMD age is 73. If you were born in 1959 or later, your RMD age will be 75. If you turned 72 in 2023 and have already taken your RMD, the IRS is allowing RMDs to be returned to the account by September 30, 2023.

Your RMD is calculated each year based on the value of the account on December 31 and your life expectancy according to an IRS table. Your initial RMD is typically about 4-5% of the value of the account, and this increases a little bit every year. If you fail to take your RMD, there is a penalty tax between 10% and 50%!!! So, it is important to pay attention to your RMDs. RMDs need to be calculated for ALL retirement plans, such as IRAs, 401k plans, 403b plans, etc. Also, if you have multiple types of plans, such as an IRA and 401k, you need to take a distribution from both of them. Roth IRAs do NOT have a required distribution, unless received as an inheritance.

I should also note, if you INHERITED a retirement plan, the RMD rules are entirely different. You are generally required to begin RMDs immediately, unless the plan is inherited by a spouse. The inherited RMD rules are too complex to explain in this article, so please speak with your tax or financial advisor.

Distributions from retirement plans are generally taxed as ordinary income (unless you made Roth contributions). Because of this, many people try to delay retirement distributions as long as possible. For example, you may have money in non-retirement investment accounts or Roth IRAs that you can spend down during initial years of retirement.

It may seem counterintuitive to pay taxes sooner than you are required, but it may make sense to take some distributions from your retirement plan sooner than your RMD age. The IRS has a

graduated income tax schedule, meaning that as your income increases, your tax rate on incremental income goes up. The Federal tax rate starts at 10% and eventually increases to 37%. Depending on the size of your retirement accounts, your tax rate may be higher if you wait until your RMD age. For example, you may be able to pull money from your retirement plan and have it taxed at 15% or 22%, but this may go up to 24% or 32% later in retirement. Paying taxes today at 15%, may be better than deferring taxes and paying at a rate of 24%, for example.

If you want to take advantage of lower tax rates but don’t need money for your expenses, you can also consider a Roth Conversion. When you do this, you convert a taxable retirement account into a Roth IRA, which grows tax free! Roth IRAs do NOT have RMDs, so the money can grow tax-free until your death.

One final consideration, if you are over the age of 70 ½, it is possible to donate money from your retirement directly to charities without paying taxes. This is called a Qualified Charitable Distribution, and is a great strategy if you regularly donate to charities. You don’t have to pay taxes on the distribution and your charities directly benefit!

All this stuff is quite complex and can be overwhelming. I would like you to take away four action items.

Make sure you know the age that you need to begin taking Required Minimum Distributions from your accounts. If you are not already taking them, your RMD age is most likely age 73 or 75.

If you inherited a retirement account, make sure you are taking the required distributions immediately.

Consider meeting with a tax or financial advisor to understand your overall tax situation and create a RMD strategy that accounts for your current and future tax rates.

If you are over the age of 70 ½ and donate to charities, consider a Qualified Charitable Distribution.

Written by Lars Lambrecht, CFP, CLU, BFA, AMPA, CDFA, CLTC. Lars is a Rehoboth resident and Private Wealth Advisor.

BACK TO SCHOOL

Palmer River Elementary School Educators Selected for OAPL/Wade Institute Program

As the summer maintenance crew continues preparations for our back to school opening on September 6th, our teaching staff has also been hard at work. Many of our teachers continue employment during the summer months, working in the district’s Summer Learning Enrichment Program, or with the Extended School Year Program. Several teachers participate in advanced studies and graduate courses during summer months as well.

Recently, two fourth grade teachers from Palmer River Elementary School were selected by Open Access Professional Learning (OAPL) and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to spend a week with the Wade Institute for Science Education and their partners, Manomet, Inc., the Lloyd Center for the Environment, and the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy. OAPL aims to support Massachusetts educators in strengthening their knowledge base for learning how to engage all students in scientific thinking that moves learning about science (memorizing facts) to figuring things out through phenomena-driven instruction.

Ms. Cheryl Gridley and Ms. Lyndsey Burtch spent a week in July investigating the phenomena of whale, shark, turtle and bird migration, and exploring the tools used to track migrating species. They worked with real time data collected by researchers and citizen scientists, and gained an understanding of the importance of both technologically collected data as well as historical data collected by whalers and fisherman. They also learned how their students can become involved in citizen monitoring programs. Finally, Ms. Gridely and Ms. Burtch engaged in hands-on field and inquiry-based classroom investigations, exploring how phenomena can provide a foundation for inquiry-based science instruction. They are returning to school in the fall with new knowledge, curriculum resources and instructional materials that bring migration alive for our students.

PRES fourth grade teachers spent time learning about the Diamondback Terrapin and how to optimize their survival with specific release locations

Ms. Cheryl Gridley and Ms. Lyndsey Burtch from Palmer River Elementary School attended a hands-on science workshop this summer.

D.L. Beckwith Middle School Term 4 Honor Roll

High Honors

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Grade 6: Markos Andrade, Gabrielle Assi, Nathan Auricchio, Addison Bairos, Isabelle Bettencourt, Desmond Clark, Alyssa Daniels, Skyla DuVally, Tenley Ferreira, Haley Gomes, Alicia Gouveia, Cassidy Hasenfratz, Leah Hyder, Reece Kotch, Keegan Lay, Leah Levesque, Samantha Medeiros, Adriana Menezes, Abbie Oldmixon, Emma Owen, Violet Swicker, James Whittle

Grade 7: Bonnie Arrigo, Thomas Azevedo, Aiden Beagan, Hunter Benevides, Courtney Botelho, Bailey D’Alessio, Ella Danforth, Manuel Daza-Portillo, Alexis Flood, Mia Fonseca, Zoe Fortin, Emily Harris, Jayden Hasenfratz, James Holt, Derek Howland, Julian Johnson, Claire Kiselica, Cole LeBlanc, Logan Lindberg, Jameson Murphy, Ciara Peavey, Taylor Pierce, Elijah Polychronis, Mayukha Reddy, Anne Reed, Isabella Rego, Marissa Rioux, Lucas Rodrigues, Logan Silva, Logan Slater, Mackenzie Spencer, Miles Trexler, Annalie Zink, Lilyan Zink

Grade 8: Ryan Avila, Noelle Blais, Dario Conceicao, Alexis Courtemanche, Trinity DaConceicao, Walter Ellis, Devin Fournier, Willow Fredericks, Kaia Goulart, Riley Gousie, Avery Grage, Dylan Howland, Addison Hoyle, Cameron Johnson, Allison Mandeville, Zachary McCann, Patrick McCann, James Mello, Cadence Pham, Samuel Pickford, Isabelle Pirri, Ava Randall, Jalissa Raphino, Noelle Salwierz, Brenna Withers

Honors

Grade 5: Charles Battistoni-Marks, Alexander Benoit, Dodge Caban, Jocelyn Cameron, Damin Carey, Dylan Cordeiro, Luke DeMoura, Kamilia Garcia, Mason Gouveia, Zachory Hardmon, Maximus Jarvis, Richard Karvelas, Jameson Leonard, Kassin Lewis, Jade Lingard, Conor Lynch, Dane Medeiros, Andrew Oldmixon, Lila Owen, John Perry, Thomas Pierce, Victoria Powers, Ellie Prevost, Alexander Quin, Connor Quinn, Mitchell Ramos, Kinley Rhines, Eve Ricci, Zachary Robbio, Evangeline Salzberg, Maeve Santos, Finn Scamacca, Morgan Soares, Mia Souza, John Sulyma, Raegan Walczak, Aubrey Young

Grade 6: Lillian Albernaz, Jordan Arcisz, Zackary Bacon, Stephen Bentley, Hayden Bonilla, Hailey Boulay, Caitlyn Cabral, Olivia Callahan, Nayalie Carpenter, Carli Castro, Adam Cavanaugh, Brianna Chartier, Benjamin Chartier, Shane DaPonte, Kyle DeDucca, Louis Diamond, Olivia Eckman, Connor Fleming, Elyana Fonseca, Callen Forget, Isabella Furtado, Quinn Garcia, Cailyn Haslett, Brooke Henriques, Liam Hnath, Connor Hoyle, Cara Iafrate, Logan Jodat, Quinn Kotch, Lyla Lewandoski, Eric Lin, Ava Lundquist, Violet Lyons, Andrew Mandeville, Edwin Marr, Brooke Martel, Nathan Mayer, Mia Megan, Nicholas Miller, Olivia Nixon, Cole Nystrom, Mason Pattie, Jada Raphino, Connor Ruhle, Bradley Russell, Ethan Salisbury, Caleb Sawant, Taylen Sequeira, Jenna Sidok, Alexandra Sousa, Alexander Warren, Ryan White

Grade 7: Deritza Andrade, Domenic Andreozzi, Elaina Aragon, Samuel Baker, Imelia Berwick, Abram Bonin, Bryce Bouchard, Caleb Bronsdon, Nicholas Brown, Makinley Carcieri, Ian Cardoso, Kaleb Chappell, Campbell Cordeiro, Blake Cordeiro, Drew Dagnese, Jillian Del Fino, Landon Ferreira, Micah Fischman, Allison Gagnon, Rebecca George, Leah Goulart, Christopher Haskell, Ryder Hays, Ava Heron, Louis Kent, Liam Leonard, Lincoln Levisee, Preston Lima, Ava Lopes, Reid Maloof, Sadie Noviello, Stephen Paiva, Zahra Petrone, Emma Rapp, Khloe Rodriques, Zackary Rutko, Annabel Semidoro, Aiden Shaw, Zachary Sidok, Katherine Silva, Lillian Swan, Ariana Sypek, Alexandria Thompson, Mariessa Ware, Zeke Whittaker

Grade 8: Owen Angelini, Claire Comins, Madison Coyne, Victoria Czech, Mason DaCosta, Anthony D’Aiello, Noah DellaVecchia-Ronan, Cole Gifford, Landon Gould, Sarah Hathaway, Brooke Laliberte, Audrey Lancellotta, Damien Landry, Hunter LeBlanc, Riley Leduc, Charlotte Marr, Samantha Medeiros, Madeleine Nystrom, Mason Pacheco, Caleigh Petersen, Josephine Powers, Paxton Ramos, Arianna Remy, Mikayla Rose, Benjamin Roth, Sophia Salisbury, Hayden Silva, Noah Silva, Connor Silva, McKenna Taylor, Jovani Yuastella

St. Mary Academy – Bay View Names Students to Q4 Honor Roll for Academic Achievement

East Providence – St. Mary Academy – Bay View has announced its honor roll for the fourth quarter of the 2022-2023 academic year. This academic distinction recognizes students in grades 6 through 12 who demonstrate above-average scholastic achievement. Students who earn all As for the quarter grading period receive the distinction of highest honors. Students who achieve As and Bs for the quarter grading period are recognized with “honor.”

The following students were named to the St. Mary Academy – Bay View honor roll for the fourth quarter of 2023.

Rehoboth

Highest Honors: Sophie Green-Sermak, grade 8; Molly Green-Sermak, grade 10; Amanda Abbott, grade 11; Laura DeGirolamo, grade 11; Madison Gomes, grade 11; Ava Wasylow, grade 11; Ella Wasylow, grade 12

Honors: Gabriella Faria, grade 6; Sofia Hebert, grade 6; Rhaea Crepeau, grade 7; Sophia Andrade, grade 8; Milan Byrne, grade 8; Avery Gomes, grade 9; Sarah Cady, grade 10

Seekonk

Highest Honors: Yiling Brady, grade 8; Yishan Brady, grade 9; Ciara Mercado-Alvarez, grade 12

Honors: Lauren Adamonis, grade 9; Nina Grace, grade 9; Julia Martin, grade 11

All Girls. Independent. Catholic. College Preparatory. Preschool to Grade 12. Academic excellence since 1874.

Back-to-School

6

Bus Safety Tips for Back-to-School Season

(Family Features) Another school year means millions of children across the United States will begin and end each day with a bus ride. The way many kids ride to school today, however, is the same as it was 25 years ago - in diesel school buses, which have been shown to be harmful to children’s health, the community and the climate.

Investments are being made to clean up the nation’s school bus fleet, like the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Clean School Bus Program, which will provide $5 billion over five years to help replace existing buses with low- and zero-emission models. One alternative energy source, propane, is an environmentally friendly and affordable option that can be implemented today to provide a better tomorrow for more students. The low-carbon emissions energy source is abundantly available and can work in tandem with other energy sources, including electric, to move the nation’s school bus fleet further down the path to zero emissions and ensure every child has a safe, clean, healthy ride to school.

In addition to speaking to your children’s school district officials about alternative school bus solutions, there are lessons parents can teach their children about how to remain safe before, during and after their daily trips on school buses. Consider these tips from the experts at the National Association of Pupil Transportation.

Before the Bus Arrives

• Ensure backpacks are packed securely so papers and other items don’t scatter as the bus approaches.

• Create a morning routine that puts kids at the bus stop five minutes before the scheduled pickup time. This helps avoid a last-minute rush, when safety lessons are easily forgotten, and ensures kids are safely in place for boarding.

• Encourage children to wear bright, contrasting colors so they can be seen easier by drivers.

• Instruct children to walk on the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk, advise them to stay out of the street, walk single-file, face traffic and stay as close to the edge of the road as possible.

• Walk young children to the bus stop or encourage kids to walk in groups. There is safety in numbers; groups are easier for drivers to see.

• If kids must cross a street, driveway or alley, remind them to stop and look both ways before crossing.

• Verify the bus stop location offers good visibility for the bus driver; if changes are needed, talk with nearby homeowners or school district officials to implement changes. Never let kids wait in a house or car, where the driver may miss seeing them approach the bus.

• Remind children the bus stop is not a playground. Balls or other toys can roll into the street and horseplay could result in someone falling into the path of oncoming traffic.

• Instruct children to stay at least three steps away from the road and allow the bus to come to a complete stop before approaching it.

On the Bus Ride

• When boarding the bus, items can get bumped and dropped. Caution children that before picking anything up, they should talk to the driver and follow instructions to safely retrieve their possessions.

• Teach safe riding habits: Stay seated with head, hands and feet inside at all times; keep bags and books out of the aisle and remain seated until the bus stops moving.

• Instruct children to never throw things on the bus or out the windows and to never play with or block emergency exits.

• Remind kids that loud noises are off limits so they don’t distract the driver. That includes cellphones and other electronic devices; instruct children to put them on mute or use headphones.

When it comes to learning focus, concentration, self-discipline and courtesy, our classes are A+! Teachers love our students, because we provide them with the tools necessary to be successful in school and life. CALL TODAY and experience how our instructors can teach your child to have an A+ attitude!

Leaving the Bus

• Remind children to look before stepping off the bus. If they must cross the street, teach them to do so in front of the bus by taking five big steps (approximately 10 feet) away from the front of the bus, looking up and waiting for the driver to signal it’s safe.

• For parents who meet their kids at the bus, eliminate the risk of your children darting across the street by waiting on the side of the street where they exit the bus.

• Make the bus ride part of your daily “how was school?” discussion. Encourage kids to talk about the things they see and hear on the bus so you can discuss appropriate behaviors and, if necessary, report any concerns to school administrators.

Benefits of Propane Buses

Every day, 1.3 million children in the United States ride to school in 22,000 propane-powered school buses, which are currently in use by more than 1,000 school districts across 48 states. Alternative fuels, such as propane, offer multiple benefits for school districts and students alike because propane buses reduce harmful emissions, save money and provide a safer ride for students.

Student Health

Propane reduces harmful nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 94% compared to diesel and emits near-zero particulate matter emissions. Both emissions, which can be found in the cloud of smoke emitted from the tailpipes of diesel buses, are known triggers for asthma, bronchitis and other respiratory problems, according to the EPA.

Reliability

Propane has a range of 400 miles and the performance needed to drive long distances without stopping to recharge or refuel.

Cost Savings

While propane and electric are both options for clean student transportation that also reduce the harm to air quality, the cost is not equal. On average, an electric school bus costs $375,000, meaning districts can purchase three propane-powered buses (which are only $6,000 more expensive than diesel buses) for the price of one electric bus. In fact, a study from the World LP Gas Association found the cost savings of getting rid of all diesel buses and replacing them with propane would save enough money to hire 23,000 teachers due to lower long-term fuel and maintenance costs. Find more information and learn how to talk to school district officials about adopting clean school buses at BetterOurBuses.com.

Preparing Your Children for Kindergarten

(Family Features) Being ready for kindergarten is about far more than writing names and reciting the ABCs. It is also about building a foundation for deeper conceptual thinking, curiosity, creativity and social and emotional skills that can help children during their early school days and also in life.

For parents, this transition can be nerve-wracking and raise questions about how to best prepare their children for the next step in their educational journeys.

Dr. Lauren Starnes, senior vice president and chief academic officer at The Goddard School, and Lee Scott, chairperson of The Goddard School’s Educational Advisory Board, recommend helping children prepare for kindergarten through:

Building Strong Routines and Foundations for Learning:

1. Language and literacy: Practice writing by making place cards for the dinner table. For younger children, it can be the first letter of each person’s name or fun scribbles on the card. Early scribbles are part of developing writing skills.

2. Mathematics: Count while you work. Ask your children to put away toys. As they work, you can count the toys together.

3. Science: Make yard cleanup fun. As you clean the yard, talk about the leaves and why they turn colors and fall to the ground. Pile them up and jump in.

4. Executive function: Incorporate your children in planning for the family. Help your children stay organized with a daily or weekly chart. Have your children make the chart with you. For younger children, you can use drawings or pictures instead of words.

5. Creative expression: Sing and dance while you work. Make up songs or repeat favorites as your children go through a few basic chores such as putting clothes away.

6. Social-emotional development: Build a sense of responsibility and caring for others with real or pretend pets. Take the dog for a walk, feed the cat or water the pet rock. Taking care of a pet can help children develop a sense of responsibility and empathy for others.

7. Healthy development and well-being: Daily routines help your children practice fine motor skills while doing a few chores, such as setting a table, helping you cook by mixing or stirring, putting their clothes on or brushing their teeth.

Incorporating Playful Experiences:

1. Puzzles: Solving puzzles supports the development of skills such as concentration, self-regulation, critical thinking and spatial recognition.

2. Board games: Playing games provides a number of benefits for children, including supporting memory and critical thinking,

helping them learn to take turns and count, and developing early language skills.

3. Blocks: Block building supports creativity, cognitive flexibility, planning and organization. Take some time to build with blocks using different shapes and colors.

4. Clay: Children need to develop fine motor skills beyond using devices. Few things are better for developing fine motor skills than modeling clay. Learning to sculpt with clay also builds creativity, artistic expression and strategic thinking.

5. Recycled materials: Inspire creativity by finding things around the house to build with, such as cardboard, paper, paper towel rolls and plastic bottles. For more actionable parenting insights, guidance and resources - including a webinar with Scott focused on kindergarten readiness - visit GoddardSchool.com.

Source: The Goddard School

5 Savvy Tips for a Smooth Back-toSchool Transition

(Family Features) Balancing schedules, supplies shopping, meal planning and more can make the back-to-school season one of the most hectic times of the year. Keeping stress at bay may be a little easier when you put a plan in place the entire family can follow.

Remember, making the transition as smooth as possible requires a team effort. Help make a new academic year easier on your little ones (and yourself) with these hacks.

Start Your Routines

Getting your kids into their school day routines may be a massive undertaking, but it’s often helpful to start weeks before the first bell rings. Set those alarms and encourage kiddos to treat each morning as if they’re going to class. In the evenings, practice prepping backpacks and outfits just as you would during the school year, and ensure children are going to sleep at the times they should on school nights.

Simplify School Lunches

Prepping lunchboxes to send to school doesn’t need to be a time-consuming affair. In fact, it can be one of the easiest parts of your routine with prepackaged options that help make packing lunches a breeze. Seek out solutions that help simplify the process like Kemps Smooth Cottage Cheese, a first-of-its-kind snack for kids made with 4% whole milk and blended with real fruit to create a smooth and creamy texture without the curds. Available in fourpacks of 4-ounce cups in fun flavors like Mixed Berry, Strawberry and Strawberry Banana, it’s a healthy, convenient and versatile solution with probiotics and no high-fructose corn syrup. Plus, it’s high in protein to keep kids feeling full and focused throughout the school day.

Prep the Night Before

Stressful mornings can lead to less productive days. Instead, simplify mornings as much as possible by packing backpacks, prepping lunches and planning outfits in the evenings to save yourself time once that alarm goes off. Plus, you may be less likely to forget essentials like homework assignments or permission slips when you’re not in a rush.

Serve Nutritional After-School Snacks

Skip the temptation to stock the pantry with sugary grab-and-go treats. Instead, encourage good nutritional choices for your children after a day of learning by offering them healthier snacking solutions. For ex-

ample, pairing cottage cheese with crackers or fresh fruit provides a protein punch without the added sugar of less healthy snack choices to keep little tummies full until it’s time for a family meal.

Create a Family Calendar

The school year certainly isn’t the only time that calendars feel like they’re bursting at the seams, but the addition of after-school activities, field trips, parent-teacher conferences and more can be overwhelming if you’re not prepared. Find a scheduling solution that works for your family, whether it’s a dry-erase board in a mudroom or magnetic calendar on the fridge. Stay on top of upcoming events and activities by sitting down together once a week (or more) to write down everyone’s commitments and track important dates. To learn more and find fun recipes, visit Kemps.com.

Source: Kemps

SPOTLIGHT ON SPORTS

Seekonk Little League 12U All Star Team District 6 Champions!

On July 12 Seekonk Little League’s 12U All Star team captured the District 6 Major Division Championship for the third time in 65 years beating Taunton East 10-0. Seekonk’s offense was red hot throughout the tournament putting up 10 runs in two out of the five games they played. The offense was backed by solid defense and some incredible pitching performances. The entire team played great baseball throughout the tournament. Seekonk Little League would like to congratulate the players and coaches on a job well done! Participating on the team were Kyle Ferus, Zach Schebel, JR

BASKETBALL TRAINING

16TH

SUMMER HOOP CAMP AT PROVIDENCE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

660 Waterman Ave, East Providence RI 02914

AUG 14th-18th • 9:00 AM TO 2 PM (8:30am drop-off)

Boys & Girls Ages 5-15 Cost: $210.00

For more info call Frank Luca at 401-639-0814 or Register on-line @ www.1on1basketball.com

Gardner, Mason Kenyon, Cam Lacroix, Chace Euell, Tyler Michaluk, Aaron Crabtree, Griffin Provost, Lukas Garcia, Kelvin Cabrera, JT Donato. A huge thanks to Coaches Shane Lacroix, Jeff Kenyon and Kelvin Cabrera for devoting their time working with these kids to get them ready for tournament play. The league would also like to thank the following Dave Michaluk, Brian LaSalle, Rick Sousa, Paul Henderson, Dave Lacroix, Joe Martin, Jim Halpin and Seekonk DPW for helping prepare the field to allow these boys to play baseball on one of the nicest fields in the area. Lastly thank you to Jack Horton and Rene Lacroix Martin for helping with tournament scoring keeping and pitch counting. Thank you to Randy Bradshaw, Cheryl Cochrane, Jake Boisvert and Isla Kenyon for helping keep everyone hydrated and nourished during our home games. And finally, Thank You to all the parents and fans who supported not only these boys but the entire Seekonk Little League community during the season!

Mike Boisvert, SLL President

Seekonk Softball

Seekonk Little League District 6 Champions

Christmas in July tournament was a huge hit for our 10U team. They really embraced all things red and green and even exchanged secret Santa stockings in between games! Photo courtesy of Seekonk Softball.

ANNUAL

Damage Caused by Dogs

Commonwealth of Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 140, Section 155, concerns liability for damage caused by dogs. The statute allows victims injured by dogs wide leeway to pursue damages against owners for the sustained injuries.

Dog owners in the Commonwealth are held strictly liable for injuries to persons or property caused by their dogs. This means that victims do not need to show that the dog owner did anything wrong, failed to act, or was otherwise negligent. Strict liability requires only that something or someone was damaged by a dog and the dog’s actions in fact caused the damage.

With respect to any damage, liability is not defendable on the premise that the dog owner did not have any reason to know that his or her dog was likely to cause injury. For example, if someone were bitten by a dog, liability is not defendable on the basis that the dog had never bitten anyone in the past, and therefore the owner did not know it was likely to bite someone, often referred to as the “one bite free” rule, which Massachusetts does not recognize. As such, in the Commonwealth, an owner of a dog causing injury can be sued even if it’s the first time the dog caused an injury.

It is worth noting that General Laws Chapter 140, Section 155, does not focus solely on injury caused by dog bites, but damages in general to property or person. For example, if a dog were to unintentionally knock down an elderly person or young child, or scratch someone with its claws while playing, even in an unaggressive manner, the dog’s owner will still be held strictly liable if the person knocked over or scratched was injured as a result. The same also applies for property injuries, including injury to other animals by a dog.

Though a dog’s owner or keeper is strictly liable for damages caused by his or her dog, a dog’s owner can still raise defenses against liability. One may be where there is a question of who the dog’s owner is. For example, couples living together might share ownership of a dog, or one might own the couple’s dog exclusively. Perhaps someone is watching a friend’s dog for an extended period

of time, thereby serving as a “temporary owner”. These types of scenarios can raise questions as to who actually owns the dog. Other potential defenses include where the dog owner asserts that the damage to the person or property of someone claiming injury occurred while that person was committing a trespass, or was provoking, teasing, tormenting, or abusing the dog.

There are also certain criminal and civil statues and local regulations and penalties that could be triggered as a result of dogrelated harm and its owner’s failure to control and license the dog. For these reasons a dog owner should carefully review their insurance policies for coverage for dogrelated injury and be aware of any carve outs for specific breeds or inflicted injuries. If you are facing a dog-related injury claim or have questions surrounding the same, please reach out to us.

492 Winthrop Street, Suite 5, Rehoboth, MA 02769

Tel: 774-901-2677

• Fax: 774-901-2678

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

Our Kitchen is back!!!

We welcome Chef Chico Charbonneau. Chico will be cooking Lunch on Monday’s for Gert’s Café, Breakfast & Lunch on Wednesdays, & Breakfast on Fridays.

Join our Distro List for the Francis Farm Complex

Stay up to date on activities COAmail@rehobothma.gov

Tuesday Book Club

Coming in September

The first Tuesday of each Month @ 10:00 AM at the Senior Center. Desire Palmer will lead the Book Club

Join Our Walking Club

Mon-Wed- Fri @ 9:00AM

Lace up your sneakers and get ready for the Walk Massachusetts Challenge! Signup @ walkmachallenge.com

• 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

9:00-11:00 Cribbage

9:00 Walking Club

10:00 Bocce

10:00 Cornhole Toss

Noon Gert’s Café

~ Limited seating ~ $3.00 Please call to reserve a seat 508-252-3372

Tuesdays

9:00 Dancercise (NEW) $3.00

9:00 Zumba $3.00

10:00-Noon Jewelry Making Class $5.00

10:00 Combined Toga - Chair or Mat on Francis Hall Pavilion

10:00 Cornhole Toss

10:00 Ladies Sewing & Quilting

1:00 Hi-Lo Jack

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

Wednesdays

8:30 - 10:00 Breakfast (NEW)

9:00 Walking Club

10:00 Bocce

10:00 Cornhole Toss

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

Noon Lunch (NEW)

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

Thursday

9:00 Tai Chi

10:00 Fiber Arts (Knitting & Crochet get together. Bring any project you are working on)

12:15 Drums Alive $3.00

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

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

8:30 - 10:00 Breakfast (NEW)

Rehoboth Public Health Nurse

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

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

Offering multiple medical services for our Rehoboth citizens: Home Visits, Vaccinations, Support groups: Bereavement,

Caregiver assistance, Dementia support and more

• Wellness Clinic Wednesday

• 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 socialemotional health and well-being

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

• Can connect to their peers and community

• Can foster inter-generational relationships and shared activities

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

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

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

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

The Rehoboth Council on Aging shall:

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

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

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

Farmers’ Market Coupons

Farmers’ Market Coupons are available for low-income elders age 60 or older. Participants must reside in Seekonk. The coupons have a total value of $50 and may be used to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables. A limited number of coupons are available. Please call 508-336-8772 to see if you qualify!

Ed The Wizard

Wed, Aug 16, 2023 @ 11:30am

“Magic for Seniors” is full of comedy and suspense as we read minds, vanish coins, and even learn a few effects to baffle the grandchildren. “Comedy, Mystery, and a whole Lot of Fun! Join Ed the Wizard as he conjures up some Mystical Magical Mayhem! Be amazed with his Mind Reading skills, Vanishes, and more!” If you are interested in this program please sign up. This program is generously provided by a grant by the Seekonk Cultural Council. Preregistration is required by calling our office at 508-3368772.

Brain Health - 101

Tues, Aug 22, 2023 at 11:00am

“Aging and Memory Loss: What’s normal, what’s not, and how to make a difference”. Join Outreach Coordinator Athena Lavoie for a presentation on Alzheimer’s disease and exciting new research opportunities at Butler Hospital’s Memory and Aging Program. Hear about what can be normal in memory loss as we age, what you can do to maintain brain health at any age and exciting breakthroughs in Alzheimer’s prevention research. Learn more about identifying Alzheimer’s disease risk including the APOE4 risk gene and amyloid PET scans conducted as part of preclinical Alzheimer’s Prevention trials. Preregistration is required by calling our office at 508-336-8772.

The Country Flavored Band

Wed, Aug 23, 2023 at 1:00pm

The Country Flavored Band members are Roger Rebeiro & Frank Carotenuto who both are vocal and rhythm/lead guitarists and Ben Carnevale who plays the pedal steel guitar. They perform classic country songs by country legends such as George Jones, Marty Robbins, Hank Williams, and many others. They also include folk songs with a country flavor! The band has been playing together since 2018 and has an accumulated experience of more than 150 years. They play ballads and ‘honky tonks’ including songs by The Mavericks, Johnny Cash, Wayne Hancock, and Bruce Springsteen both on and off Cape. Preregistration is required by calling our office at 508-336-8772.

Ice Cream Social

Wed, Aug 30, 2023 at 1:00pm

Join Lisa Lebreux from Prosper Assisted Living for an Ice Cream Social on Wednesday, August 30, 2023 at 1:00pm. Get the SCOOP on Prosper as you eat your favorite ice cream with all the toppings you love! Free raffle ticket for all who attend. Preregistration is required by calling our office at 508-336-8772.

Let’s Learn Together!

Aug 22, 2023 @ 2:00pm

**This session is for novice users of Apple iPhones and iPads ONLY. No other devices will be covered. ** Do you feel like you can barely turn on your Apple iPhone or iPad and are afraid to really use it? Join Librarian Michelle Gario in this 60-minute session to review the basic information to get started that should have been in a manual! Bring your own Apple iPhone and iPad. Please make sure your device is fully charged. Contact the Seekonk Senior Center to register by calling 508-336-8772.

Telephone Reassurance Program

Seekonk Human Services will be taking over the “R.U.O.K” Program that was provided by the Bristol County Sheriff’s Office. Our office will make a telephone call to an individual’s home at approximately the same time each day Monday through Friday (during our operating business hours only). This program is designed to connect people in need with ongoing, caring human contact and conversation. If we do not receive an answer, we will call back shortly after. If we do not receive an answer the second time, Public Safety will be called to check on the individual’s status.

The Telephone Reassurance Program provides a peace of mind for the individual

and their loved ones. This program is designed for senior citizens, disabled persons and shut-ins living in Seekonk who may be at risk of loneliness, social isolation, illness or injury.

If you, or you know someone you know is interested in this program, please call Nicole at Human Services at 508-336-8772.

Tuesday Luncheons

Tuesdays at 11:45am

Seekonk Human Services has partnered with The Cook’s House to offer weekly lunches! Lunches will cost $4 for residents and $5 for nonresidents. The menu will be available at the office and on Facebook. Advance sign up is required one week in advanced with payment.

“Canasta”

Mondays @ 11:30am

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

Chess For Seniors

Wednesdays, 1:30pm to 3:00pm

Are you looking to have a fun time playing the strategic game of chess? Whether you’ve never picked up a piece or have experience in the game, this activity is for you. *Learn how to play. *Play against competition at your level. *Improve by learning new openings and strategies. *Have fun strengthening your mind! Call 508-336-8772 to preregister.

Podiatry Clinic

Wed, Aug 9, 2023 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, Aug 16th 9:00am - 11:00am

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

Women’s Lunch

Wed, August 16, 2023 @ 11:30am

Grist Mill Tavern 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.

Encore Casino

Tuesday, September 19, 2023

Price: $35.00 Per Person

Location: Boston Harbor

Payment made in full when signing up for trip

Join us at Boston’s Premier Casino!!

The casino at Encore Boston Harbor brings glamour on a grand scale to the riverfront. Enter the main floor - open and airy, colorful and vibrant! Try your luck with 2,800+ slot machines, including classic favorites, automated tables and the newest game titles. Enjoy 166 table games, from craps and roulette to blackjack and baccarat, all at stateof-the-art tables with superior service. It all adds up to an exciting, memorable five-star experience unlike anywhere else in Boston.

Your Motorcoach Will Depart: 8:30am from 540 Arcade Avenue, Seekonk. Approximate Return at 5:30pm

Trip Includes: *Casino Time: 10:00am4:00pm (Casino Package subject to change).

*Casino Package - $20 free slot play. *Deluxe Motorcoach Transportation. *Gratuity not included.

Contact: Seekonk Human Services 508336-8772

Activities and Programs

Mondays

Chair Yoga 10am

Bocce 11am

Canasta 11:30am

Strength & Cardio 1pm

Zoom BINGO 1:30pm

Tuesdays

Drums Alive 9am

Watercolors 10am

Horseshoes 11am

Hi Lo Jack 1pm

Wednesdays

Drums Alive 9:30am

Tribal Grooves 11:00am

Cornhole 11am

Mahjong 1pm

Chess 1:30pm

Thursdays

Chair Yoga 10am

Hi Lo Jack 1pm 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

Tuesday, Wednesdays & Thursdays

Seekonk Human Services continues to work 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. August’s menu is available on our Facebook Page and by calling our office at 508-336-8772.

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.

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 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.

Future Activities

More information to come Be Red Cross Ready Training

Wed, Sept 12, 2023 at 1:00pm

This national, standardized, preparedness education curriculum for adults and older youth is taught by a certified presenter. The program is designed to help people understand, prepare for and respond appropriately to disasters. People will build confidence by learning simple steps they can take now to help prepare and protect their family. The curriculum has the option to mix and match emergency preparedness modules on relevant local hazards for your community. These modules include: Preparedness Essentials, Home Fires, Hurricane, Earthquakes, Floods, Tsunamis, Tornadoes, Wildfires, Extreme Heat, Thunderstorms, Winter Storms, Volcanoes and Landslides, Preparedness for Older Adults and COVID 19. Hands-Only CPR - This presentation teaches Hands-Only CPR, which can help a bystander provide life-saving care until professional responders arrive. Participants learn how to check for consciousness, call 911 and properly administer continuous chest compressions.

The Renaissance

Wed, Sept 20, 2023 at 1:00pm

The 15th and 16th centuries saw an intellectual and artistic flowering in Europe. Many of their greatest works of art (painting, sculpture, architecture, literature) were created during that epoch. This talk will examine the origins of the Renaissance and explore some of the major artistic works of the period. Also, discussed will be the continuing cultural influence of the Renaissance.

Healthy AgingLunch

& Learn

Wed, Sept 27, 2023 at 11:30am

“Myths and Facts” for healthy aging! The presentation will be about debunking common nutrition advice seen across television and in the media with Bristol Elder Services Registered Dietitian, Dawn DiMarco. These days there is so much nutrition information going around between what you hear on TV, read in the news, or see online. Most nutrition advice in the media is not accurate. If you are looking for nutrition advice, always ask a Registered Dietitian.

Veteran’s Corner

VA Service-Connected Disability Ratings

The VA makes a determination about the severity of a disability based on the evidence you submitted as part of a claim, or that the VA obtains from your military records. The VA rates disabilities from 0% to 100% in 10% increments.

If a veteran has multiple disabilities, the VA uses a Combined Rating Table to calculate a combined disability rating. Disability ratings are not additive, meaning that if a veteran has one disability rated 60% and a second disability 20%, the combined rating is not 80%. Here’s a look at what the percentages mean:

The benefits are cumulative as the percentages go up, so I am not repeating all the info as the percentages increase.

0%: A veteran is service connected for a disability but it is not disabling enough to warrant compensation. However, the veteran can receive treatment and prescriptions free from the VA. For example, in cases of hearing loss and/or tinnitus, the veteran can receive free hearing aids. The veteran is eligible for Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance. A veteran can be reimbursed for VA co-pays as far back as his date of claim for his service-connected disabilities.

10%: The veteran begins receiving compensation for the disability. The veteran can obtain a VA ID at any VA Medical Center. The veteran can obtain a VA ID card at any VA Medical Center The veteran can receive a real estate tax abatement effective July 1 of each year (surviving spouse is eligible as well) The VA sends a summary of benefits letter in late June. The veteran is eligible for Vocational Rehabilitation. The veteran is eligible to receive VA compensation and Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC). CRSC is not taxable.

30%: The veteran can begin receiving additional compensation for dependents.

50%: The veteran can receive all prescriptions free through the VA even for medications for maladies that are not service connected. The veteran is eligible to receive VA compensation and Concurrent Receipt and Disability Pay (CRDP) and VA compensation. CRDP is taxable.

60%: The veteran is eligible to apply for a Disabled Veterans plate at the Registry of Motor Vehicles.

70%: VA is mandated to provide longterm care for veterans who require it in a VA or contracted facility. Veterans can get a 50% reduction on the “T” by filling out a Transportation Access Pass/TAP Charlie Card application and attaching an original letter from the VA specifying your disability rating.

100% service connected as well as Individual Unemployability. The VA will provide total healthcare for the veteran including dental. The real estate tax abatement is larger. The veteran, with a special letter from the VA, may obtain access to military installations to include commissary and exchange privileges. The veterans or DIC recipients are eligible for an annuity from

the state (currently $2,000 per year). Dependents Educational Assistance is established (must be rated total and permanent). Spouses and dependent children may be eligible for CHAMPVA medical coverage.

James LaFlame Seekonk Veterans Services Officer

Office 508-336-2940

Email: jlaflame@seekonk-ma.gov

1st Annual Men’s BBQ.

All the guys had a great time & enjoyed the lunch prepared by Cook’s House in Seekonk. It was the lst Annual Men’s BBQ and hopefully not the last! Thank you to Friends of Friends for funding the event and for donating to each gentleman a $10.00 Gift Card to Dunkin Donuts. A special thank you to Town Administrator Shawn Cadime and his Assistant Carol Days for attending the event. Thank you to Director Brittney and Assistant Director Ashley for sponsoring the event at the Seekonk Senior Center. Thank you to TV9 for their filming & interviewing.

Mind Your Heart Study II

1st Annual Men’s BBQ

Stephen John Palazzo

Stephen John Palazzo, 72, of Rehoboth, MA, died on Sunday, July 30, 2023, in his home surrounded by his loving family. He was the devoted husband of Sally A. Miller. Born in Providence, he was the son of the late Anthony J. and Concetta F. (Papa) Palazzo.

Stephen received his degree in English from Rhode Island College and was employed at The Providence Journal for much of his life as a copy editor. Though he enjoyed movies, classical and rock music, and tennis, he treasured nothing above spending time with and taking care of his family.

Alongside his wife Sally, he is survived by his beloved children, Lauren L. Palazzo of Arlington, MA, and Leah M. Palazzo (James

Anesta) of Groton, CT; his sister, Susan M. Robin (Wayne) of Rehoboth, MA; his nieces, Ashley L. Rogers, Chelsea L. Robin, and Rachel D. Boyette; his nephew Brian C. Vail; and his cousins Robert Xavier, Nicholas A. Zabbo, and the late Justin D. Zabbo.

DESTINATION WEDDING

Relatives and friends are invited to attend visiting hours on Wednesday, August 9, 2023 from 4:00PM-7:00PM at THE URQUHART-MURPHY FUNERAL HOME, 800 Greenwich Avenue, Warwick, RI, as well as his Funeral Service the following day on Thursday, August 10, 2023 at 11:00AM at Rehoboth Congregational Church, 139 Bay State Road, Rehoboth, MA.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Rehoboth Lions Club, P.O. Box 633, Rehoboth, MA 02769.

www.murphyfuneralhomes.org

Stephen John Palazzo

David Alan Katseff

SEPTEMBER 2, 1946 – JULY 25, 2023

David was our strength, our pillar.

David Alan Katseff of Rehoboth, MA entered into rest on July 25, 2023 at the age of 76. Born in Brookline, MA to George and Clara Katseff, he was the only boy with four sisters, who loved him dearly, Sylvia, Marsha (predeceased), Diane and Linda. David grew up in Newton, MA, graduating with Honors from Newton High School. He continued on to Northeastern University where he graduated with a BS in Chemical Engineering and was a member of Alpha Epsilon Pi Fraternity. Later he earned an MBA from Babson College.

After years of management roles in the manufacturing Industries, David started his own business MasterCast Ltd in 1985, and built it into a successful Promotional Products Manufacturing company. He was a caring boss to all his employees and worked closely with his eldest son Joshua for the last eighteen years.

David met the love his life Sharon while they were both growing up in Newton. They

were married on December 8, 1968 and would have celebrated their 55th Anniversary this year. Together they raised two amazing sons, Joshua and Lyle. David was so proud of his boys and enjoyed laughing and sharing stories with them.

Family was very important to him. It meant so much to him to be with family and friends, and always made it a point to be there during good times and sad times. David was a very sociable person and a dedicated volunteer. Over the years he worked tirelessly in many community organizations with 31 years on the Dighton-Rehoboth School Committee, member of Massachusetts Association of School Committees, Rhode Island Business Group on Health, Rhode Island Health Insurance Advisory Council, plus local and national professional industry associations and Friday Group.

David is survived by his wife and best friend, Sharon (Copenhagen) Katseff, his sons Joshua Katseff and Lyle Katseff and his grandson William, who he adored.

Funeral services were held Monday, July 31st at 11:00 AM at Stanetsky Memorial Chapel, 475 Washington Street, Canton, followed by a burial at Sharon Memorial Park. The service will be webcast at https://tinyurl. com/DKatseff

A shiva followed the burial.

Donations in his name may be given to The American Heart Association.

August 3, 2008 54th Birthday

August 8, 2023

Joseph M. Traficante

Loving you is easy. We do it everyday. Missing you is a heartache that never goes away.

Happy 54th Birthday, Big Guy! ~YOUR

David Alan Katseff

Wherever a beautiful soul has been there is a trail of beautiful memories.

– Ronald Reagan

American Legion Post 302 Fallen Comrade Commander

“Albert Howarth”

North Dighton - Albert L. Howarth, II, age 87, passed away at home surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, July 13, 2023.

Albert leaves behind his beloved wife, Lorraine (Platt) Howarth of North Dighton. Born in Pawtucket, RI to the late Albert L. Howarth JR and Rita G. (Brady) Sherman.

Mr. Howarth served his nation in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. Following his service, Al went on to have a career in forms and refrigeration installation. He loved racing cars at the Seekonk Speedway in his younger years.

He then moved on to be a racehorse owner trainer. Up until his death, he served as the Commander at the American Legion Post 302 in Rehoboth, MA. Al was known for being outgoing. He loved working. He also enjoyed cooking.

In addition to his wife, he leaves behind his sons, Michael, Christopher, George, and daughter, Michelle and son in law Robert Santos and daughter in law Jo-Ann Perry along with brothers, Bobby, Freddy and sisters, Rosemary and Audrey; 12 grandchildren, 26 great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his son, the late Albert L. Howarth, his daughter, the late Robin Howarth, his brother, the late Noel Howarth, and his sisters, the late Doris Betts and Theresa Green.

The family requests in lieu of flowers donations to the American Legion post 302 PO Box 1 Rehoboth Mass 02769 or dropped off in the white mailbox inside the post. Al would have wanted that.

Elsa S. (Lyshak) Orchel

Wrentham, MA – Elsa S. (Lyshak) Orchel, 105, formerly of Seekonk, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 6, 2023. She was the beloved wife of the late Walter T. Orchel who passed away in 2003. Born in Manchester, New Hampshire, she was a daughter of the late Frank and Helen (Osiewicz) Lyshak.

Elsa began her career at the former Corning Glass Works and went on to work for many years as a quality control inspector at Texas Instruments in Attleboro until her retirement. She enjoyed gardening and was a member of Memorial Baptist Church in Seekonk for over forty years.

Elsa leaves three children, Margaret A. Orchel of Seekonk, Thomas S. Orchel of Seekonk, and Laurie L. Yacino and her husband, Brian, in Maine; in-laws, Jennie and Ed Wachowicz of Cumberland and many nieces and nephews. She was the sister of the late Margaret Zak, Stephen Lyshak, and Cicilia Foss.

Services and interment at Seekonk Cemetery will be private. Arrangements are entrusted to William W. Tripp Funeral Home, Pawtucket, RI. TRIPPFUNERALHOME.com

Death Notices

Rehoboth

• Howard Martin Kilguss passed away suddenly on June 11, 2023, surrounded by family, on a beautiful day in Reading, Vermont.

• Crescenzo Cairone 81, of Rehoboth, MA, formerly of Providence, passed away on Thursday, June 29, 2023.

Seekonk

• Jacqueline “Jackie” M. Robbins of Seekonk, passed away peacefully with her family by her side June, 2023.

• Elsa S. (Lyshak) Orchel, 105, formerly of Seekonk, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 6, 2023.

• Jaime Domingos Simas, of Seekonk, Massachusetts and Ponta Garça, São Miguel, Açores, passed away on July 14, 2023, at the age of 88.

• Theresa “Terry” E. (Hebert) Pedro, 95, of Seekonk, MA, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, July 15, 2023, surrounded by her loving family.

Comrade Commander “Albert Howarth”

This Candle Burns in Loving Memory of those who are forever present in our hearts

Fuel for Full Days of Learning

(Family Features) Between morning routines, days spent in the classroom, extracurriculars and homework, it may seem like there’s never enough time in the day during the school year. However, making time for tasty meals and snacks doesn’t have to be another burden on jam-packed schedules.

These quick recipes for a flavorful twist on a breakfast favorite, easy-to-make sliders featuring kid-friendly flavors and delightful treats to enjoy at the end of the day can help keep little learners (and older family members, too) fueled up and ready to tackle all the school year throws their way.

Find more recipes to get you through busy back-to-school season at Culinary.net.

Simple, Kid-Friendly Sliders

For those busy school nights when time is at a premium and you need to get a meal on the table quickly, these simple yet savory Pepperoni Pizza Sliders can be a perfect solution. A modified take on a kid favorite - pizza - they’re easy to make after work and extracurricular activities to steal a few moments of family time enjoying the cheesy pepperoni goodness before completing homework and beginning preparations for a new day.

Pepperoni Pizza Sliders

Recipe adapted from MilkMeansMore.org

• 1 package slider rolls

• 1/2 cup pizza sauce

• 1/2 cup mini pepperoni

• 1 1/2 cups shredded, low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella cheese continued on next page...

• 1/4 cup butter, melted

• 1 teaspoon parsley flakes

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

• Heat oven to 350 F.

Dine In, Take Out, or Cook at Home!

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

• nonstick cooking spray

Directions:

• Keeping rolls connected, cut sheet of rolls horizontally, separating tops from bottoms. Place bottom halves of rolls in baking dish.

• Spread pizza sauce evenly over bottom halves. Sprinkle pepperoni over sauce. Sprinkle mozzarella over pepperoni and cover with top halves of rolls.

• Mix melted butter with parsley flakes, dried oregano, garlic powder and shredded Parmesan cheese. Spoon evenly over sliders.

• Cover baking dish with aluminum foil sprayed with nonstick cooking spray to keep cheese from sticking.

• Bake 20 minutes.

• Remove foil and bake additional 5-10 minutes, or until Parmesan is melted and golden brown.

• Cut sliders and serve immediately.

A Fresh-Baked After-School Sweet

After a long day of learning or a tough homework assignment, many kids love a warm, chocolatey homemade cookie. Once your kiddos pack away the calculators and put their pencils down, serve up an ooey-gooey delight as a reward for all that hard work.

These Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies are ready in just 30 minutes and made with high-quality ingredients you can count on like C&H Dark Brown Sugar for that familiar homemade flavor.

Find more sweet after-school desserts at chsugar.com.

Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Prep time: 15 minutes ~ Cook time: 15 minutes ~ Yield: 18 cookies

• 1 1/4 cups C&H Dark Brown Sugar

• 2 large eggs, at room temperature

• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

• 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

Directions:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• In medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and cook until foaming and golden brown. Remove from heat and transfer to heatproof bowl. Place in refrigerator until solidified, about 45 minutes.

continued on next page...

• In medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Set aside.

• Once butter has solidified, remove from refrigerator. In bowl of electric stand mixer, using paddle attachment, beat butter and sugar at medium speed 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, and vanilla. Mix until combined. Scrape sides of bowl as needed. Reduce speed, add flour mixture and beat to combine. Add pecans and chocolate chips; mix at low speed until combined. Place dough in refrigerator and rest 30 minutes.

• Preheat oven to 350 F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

• Using 2-ounce ice cream scoop, portion out dough on prepared baking sheets, spacing about 3 inches apart. Gently flatten dough balls using palm.

• Bake 13-15 min, or until golden brown. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets 10 minutes then transfer to wire rack. Serve warm.

A Traditional Breakfast with a Twist

The same bowl of cereal can get boring after eating it for breakfast day in and day out. You may find yourself looking for something new and exciting to start school day mornings on the right foot.

Kids can be picky when it comes to breakfast foods, but this recipe for Sausage

French Toast Roll-Ups is a quick and easy way to fill their bellies with a taste of several flavors they may already love. A sizzling sausage link wrapped with French toast, it combines a favorite breakfast protein and traditional deliciousness in one roll.

Sausage French Toast Roll-Ups

Servings: 12

• 12 sausage links

• 2 eggs

• 2/3 cup milk

• 3 teaspoons almond extract

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 6 bread slices, crust removed, cut in half

• 3 tablespoons butter

• syrup

Directinos:

In skillet, cook sausage links according to package directions. Set aside.

In medium bowl, whisk eggs, milk, almond extract and cinnamon.

Dip bread slice in egg mixture. Wrap bread slice around cooked sausage link, pressing seam to keep from unrolling. Repeat with remaining bread slices and sausage links.

In large skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter. Place roll-ups in skillet, seamsides down, and cook until all sides are browned, approximately 10 minutes.

Drizzle with syrup.

Source: Family Features

From the State houSe

Representative Steven Howitt Supports $693 Million Supplemental Budget Spending plan will help support hospitals, assist with hiring of school nurses

Boston – State Representative Steven Howitt (RSeekonk) recently supported a $693 million supplemental budget for Fiscal Year 2023, which contains funding to assist struggling hospitals, along with temporary provisions to help ease the school nurse shortage.

Representative Steven Howitt

The supplemental budget, filed as House Bill 3982, was given initial approval by the House of Representatives on a vote of 154-0 on July 13. The bill now moves to the Senate for its consideration.

House Bill 3982 provides $180 million to assist “fiscally strained” hospitals. According to Representative Howitt, $91.4 million will be set aside for hospitals that are eligible for a Medicaid supplemental payment, $58.5 million for non-profit and municipal acute care hospitals with a high percentage of Medicaid patients, and $30 million for acute care hospitals “that demonstrate significant financial need.”

The House bill also proposes temporary changes to the hiring process for school nurses in calendar years 2023 and 2024. Specifically, it would allow the Commissioner of Education to issue a temporary certificate to a registered nurse who does not meet the certification testing requirements but is authorized to practice as a registered nurse in Massachusetts and has been employed as a registered nurse for at least three years.

Representative Howitt noted that House Bill 3982 includes a $75 million reserve account to reimburse qualifying school districts for “extraordinary relief” from out of district special education placement costs. The list of communities that would be eligible for relief based on the formula included in the bill has yet to be determined. However, the bill does

specifically exclude from eligibility those school districts that still have unspent Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) money received under the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), or any other federal act that provided COVID-19 response funds.

House Bill 3982 would also:

• increase the annual cap on tax credits authorized under the Housing Development Incentive Program (HDIP) from $10 million to $57 million in calendar year 2023, with any funding remaining at the end of 2023 to be carried over to subsequent years and the annual cap to be set at $30 million beginning on January 1, 2024;

• transfer $100 million to the state’s Pension Liability Fund;

• fund $226.2 million worth of collective bargaining agreements;

• extend simulcast racing authorization by five years, to expire on July 31, 2028;

• authorize the state’s Department of Public Utilities to allow electric distribution companies to recover expenditures and payments associated with the cost increases resulting from delays in the planned transmission line carrying hydroelectricity from Quebec;

• create a $60.3 million payroll reserve for the Department of Transitional Assistance’s caseworkers and staff serving applicants and clients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC), and Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled, and Children (EAEDC) program; and

• appropriate $506,140 for costs incurred by the Commonwealth through its interstate compacts for flood control.

Representative

Steven S. Howitt Supports $56.2 Billion State Budget for Fiscal Year 2024

Boston – State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R-Seekonk) recently supported a $56.2 billion state budget for Fiscal Year 2024 which calls for increased local aid and free universal school meals, while also providing funding for a wide range of education and transportation-related initiatives.

The final budget, filed on July 30 as House Bill 4040, represents a compromise spending plan for the Commonwealth that was negotiated over the last two months by a six-member Conference Committee tasked with reconciling the differences between the House budget that was passed in April and the Senate version that was passed in May. The Conference Committee report was adopted by both legislative branches on July 31 and is now on Governor Maura Healey’s desk for her review and signature.

Representative Howitt said the budget supports local communities by funding Chapter 70 education aid at $6.59 billion, which represents an increase of $604 million over Fiscal Year 2023 levels, while doubling minimum per pupil aid from $30 to $60. It also provides for $1.27 billion in Unrestricted General Government Aid (UGGA) to support a wide range of municipal services, which is $39.4 million more than last fiscal year’s appropriation. Representative Howitt noted the new budget will provide Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District with $13,347,866 in direct education aid and Rehoboth with $1,246,164 in unrestricted aid, Seekonk with $7,754,874 in direct education aid and $1,471,088 in unrestricted aid for Fiscal Year 2024.

Other education-related funding support allocated for cities and towns in the budget includes $232.7 million in charter school reimbursements, along with $97 million in regional school transportation and $28.7 million for homeless student transportation. The budget also provides for $504.6 million in Special Education Circuit Breaker reimbursements, as well as $15 million in Rural School Assistance Grants.

Representative Howitt said cities and towns will also benefit from an increase in the amount of grants the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) can provide to municipalities to assist with school building construction and renovation projects. For Fiscal Year 2024, the cap will increase from $800 million to $1.2 billion. Another $100 million has been set aside in supplemental grants for school construction projects previously approved by the MSBA to help offset rising construction costs.

During the initial House budget debate in April, Representative Howitt successfully advocated for the inclusion of several local initiatives for his district, including: $35,000 for the removal of the Maple Avenue Dam in Seekonk, $35,000 for the remediation of water systems contaminated by per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Rehoboth. Those projects were retained in the final conference committee report and will be authorized for funding as soon as Governor Healey signs the budget.

According to Representative Howitt, the new budget provides $171.5 million for universal free school meals, including $69 million to reimburse school districts and participating schools for offering these meals. More than 80,000 students a day have eaten lunch in schools since the universal school meals program started, saving households up to $1,200 per child per year. An additional provision inserted in the budget calls for the establishment of a special commission to study nutrition guidelines and standards for school meals and to develop recommendations for improving its nutritional content.

One controversial policy change included in the Conference Committee report would allow undocumented students to qualify for in-state tuition rates and state-funded financial assistance at the state’s public colleges and universities, provided they have attended schools in Massachusetts for at least three years. Representative Howitt joined with his Republican colleagues in an attempt to suspend the rules and force a debate and vote on the in-state tuition language. This effort failed on a recorded roll call vote of 25-132 that was split along party lines.

The Fiscal Year 2024 budget also creates a new Education and Transportation Fund, which will be used to distribute $1 billion in projected surtax revenues from the newly implemented Millionaires Tax to fund a variety of education and transportation initiatives. However, Representative Howitt expressed strong concerns about a provision included in the budget that would exclude income surtax revenues collected and deposited into the new fund from being subject to the allowable state tax revenue limitations established by Chapter 62F, a 1986 voter-approved initiative that requires excess tax revenues be returned to the state’s taxpayers whenever revenue collections in a fiscal year exceed an annual cap tied to wage and salary growth.

Representative Steven S. Howitt Supports $375 Million Municipal Transportation Bond Authorization

Boston – State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R-Seekonk) recently supported a municipal road and bridge bill that authorizes $375 million in state bond appropriations to help cities and towns maintain their local transportation infrastructure.

House Bill 4013, An Act financing improvements to municipal roads and bridges, includes $200 million in Chapter 90 roadway money and an additional $150 million for six transportation-related state grant programs municipalities can access for funding assistance. The bill also contains $25 million in municipal road construction funding to assist rural communities, specifically those with a population of less than 10,000 and a population density under 500 people per square mile.

House Bill 4013 represents a compromise reached by a sixmember Conference Committee that worked to resolve the differences between prior versions of the bill approved by the House and Senate earlier this year. The bill was enacted in both branches on July 27 and is now before Governor Maura Healey for her review and signature.

Representative Howitt said House Bill 4013 will provide $622,332.31 for Rehoboth, $588,178.26 for Seekonk in Chapter 90 funding for Fiscal Year 2024.

Representative Howitt noted that Chapter 90 money 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.

Representative Howitt supported an unsuccessful Republicansponsored amendment during the April House budget debate to strike this language from the budget, arguing that the proposed exclusion is not justified, as all other taxes including taxes constitutionally designated towards specific uses like the gas tax are included in the current calculation, and tax rate increases have not been held aside from the formula previously. He argued the Legislature should not be making these changes unilaterally, as they only serve to undermine the will of the voters, and urged Governor Healey to veto this measure. For full transcripts of these Press Releases, go to www.reportertoday.com.

FOR RENT

Barn capable of 2-3 horses with corral turnout. Call John at 508-958-1567.

FOR SALE

Nissan Sentra 2003 sedan for sale. 165,000 miles. 4-cyl. Gray w/gray interior. New battery recently installed with warranty. AM/ FM/cassette. Minor scratches. Will need new tires. $1,550.00 or best offer. Inquiries to wjolaw@verizon.net

HELP WANTED

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.

Overnight worker needed. Two overnights 11PM - 7AM flexible. Help for girl with RETT Syndrome. $20 per hour with taxes taken out. BCI required. Barrington/Riverside line. Call 401-289-0127.

CNA needed for non-verbal young woman. Saturday OR Sunday 1PM-4PM. $26/hour. BCI required. Paid by agency. Barrington/ Riverside line 401-289-0127.

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.

NEW HAMPSHIRE VACATION RENTAL

CUSTOM LOG CABIN IN Sugar Hill, Franconia, White Mountains, NH. Pearl Lake Rd. Minutes from attractions, Pearl Lake and Polly’s Pancake house. Sleeps 6, fireplace, swimming, hiking, fishing, boating, kayaks or just R&R. Booking now for Summer and Fall getaways: Weekly or weekends. Call Joe at 401-439-8089 for information and pictures.

WANTED

WANTED: Free Christmas wreaths and decorations. I can pick up. Call Debbie at 401-632-3602.

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.

HOME & GARDEN

Plants for sale: Perennials, annuals, Euonymus bushes, Angel Trumpets, Coleus, succulents, fig trees, strawberry plants, & tomato plants. Free small plant with visit, prices from $3-$20. Call 401-433-2922.

GENERAL SERVICES

JUNK REMOVAL: East Providence, Rehoboth, Seekonk, Taunton, Attleboro and everywhere in Southern MA! Rapid Junk Removal has trucks rolling throughout the area daily. We can handle your Junk Removal, Estate/Property Cleanouts and Debris Cleanups - all at an affordable price, since we're always in the area! For a quote, TEXT pictures to our text line: (401) 360-5837 or visit our website at www.RapidJunkRemovalRI.com for a free quote. We'll send you back a price and availability to get your junk removed and property cleaned up! Junk Removal Locally owned vendor. No job too small! Family owned & operated. Best deals in town! Affordable pricing. 4013605837.

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

I am a Personal Care Assistant & Housekeeper willing to help you! Will perform many duties including meal prep, medication reminders, shower assistance, shopping/errands, laundry, light cleaning. Call Terri for information and rates. 774-284-7600.

Bicycle Sales & Service: Your Bike Shops 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. Call Art or Joe for *NEW* hours and service. 401-245-9755.

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

Teachers Wanted!

Teddy Bear Learning & Daycare Center in 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.