September 2023 Seekonk Reporter

Letters to the Editor...

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

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Response to Statements Made by Speakers at August 16th Select Board Meeting Regarding TV9

The following statement is a response to the allegations by the three women that appeared in “Community Speaks” section of the Seekonk Select Board’s August 16, 2023, meeting.

Seekonk Cable Access (TV9) is a private non-profit entity 501C3 corporation. It was formed in 1986 when Massachusetts Cablevision entered into an agreement with the Town of Seekonk to be its cable provider. Years later Massachusetts Cablevision became Comcast/

Xfinity. From 1986 to the present Seekonk has asked other cable providers to bid on Seekonk, but only Comcast made the commitment. Comcast and Seekonk signed a series of 10-year contracts and most recently signed another 10-year agreement in 2021.

In 2019 (?) the previous board, on a motion by the secretary, voted to change the bylaw so that the board could vote for themselves and for anyone else they wanted to put on the board. This was against the basic rights of the members/subscribers as stated in the bylaws. This amendment, which was unlawful, also removes any opportunity for checks and balances that would ensure that the board acts in the best interest of the corporation. The current treasurer argued against such a decision and was outvoted 5 to 2.

All corporation bylaws and amendments must be sent from the Board of Directors to Massachusetts Secretary of State for approval. Approval is based upon amendments and bylaws conforming with Massachusetts General Law.

The first speaker at the Seekonk Select Board meeting stated that she was in contact with the Massachusetts Attorney General’s office (AG), and they told her that her and the two other women had been removed from the Board improperly. The AG would never offer opinion over the phone. They would require documentation not hear say. Also, their decisions often can take months. But more importantly, the AG would have told the former secretary that she needed to talk to the Secretary of State’s Office as that’s where all corporation issues are decided.

The entire TV9 Board of Directors had been seated illegally based on the Bylaws as well as Massachusetts General Law (Please refer to MGL C180, C17 Corporations for Charitable and Certain other Purposes Also, sec GA, Section 2, 16, 17, 18and l0C). Two years ago the secretary made a motion for an amendment that would allow for the sitting board to elect its own members. The board vote 5 to 2 in favor of the amendment. She also made a motion for an amendment that would forgo terms for board members in favor of lifetime appointments. All of those amendments were and are in violation of its bylaws.

The Seekonk Select Board asked the previous president of TV9 to appear before the Select Board, with other board members, to answer questions about their election practices. Several Select Board members stated their disapproval ofTV9’s election methods and asked that they consider returning to a more ethical process. TV9 President stated that the TV9board would consider their recommendation. That was the last time the previous TV9 president had anything to do withTV9, because he never attended any more meetings.

The Board of Directors has been misled for more than a year, by the secretary (the first woman to speak at the Select Board Meeting), as to the reasons for his absence. She finally admitted to misleading the board about the reasons for his absence. The board decided to vote the current president into that position, as well as other members, which is also in violation of TV9 bylaws.

The secretary failed to send Annual Director Reports and updates to the Secretary of state, which was her responsibility. When discovered the treasurer sent all reports for the corporation to keep good standing with the state and to retain our 501C3 status.

A remark made by the former secretary that she asked for financials for three years, but never received them is a complete fabrication of the truth. Financials were shared at every board meeting and explained thoroughly by the treasurer. In fact, the treasurer emailed the board every time he paid a bill and deposited a check. Furthermore, the current sitting Chair of the Seekonk Select Board witnessed these actions first-hand as he was appointed by the Select Board to be a liaison to our board based on false accusations made publicly about the TV9 financials and other issues, without any confirmation.

In 2023 the secretary called a meeting, which she did not have the authority to do, unless the board authorizes her to do so in the absence of the president. The board never authorized her to do so. When pressed by board members to state what the meeting was about - she refused to do so. When further pressed she answered that it was a personnel matter. (Copies of the emails are available, upon request.) This too was a fabrication as her meeting had nothing to do with personnel. She was looking for a way to compromise the sitting president. She told the two members that attended the meeting that because the president had driven the company vehicle, he jeopardized all board members as well as the

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town of Seekonk. However, She didn’t have a problem when the previous vice president used the vehicle on a regular basis. Also, when the current president asked the board if he use the company vehicle both the secretary (1st speaker) and the then vice president (last speaker) stated in an email “Use it any time.”

The secretary said the president “accused her of stalking. That wasn’t an accusation, but a fact. She handed the president at a recent board meeting - photos and a timeline of his driving the vehicle. A complaint of stalking was filed with the Seekonk Police Department, by the current president and that report is on file with the Seekonk Police Department, which isa matter of public record. The accusation was indeed fact. She also stalked and photographed a former executive director of TV9 causing him to resign. A former TV9 president quit in the middle of a meeting because he could not tolerate the misleading information from the secretary.

TV9’s Board meetings became increasingly dysfunctional. The president did not have any trust in the secretary, as well another specific members. Personnel Staff were as wary and frightened that if they gave their opinion, when asked, the secretary would make working there unbearable if they disagreed with her.

The removal of the board had nothing to do with anyone’s gender. The current president tried for 18 months to seat two women wanting to serve on the board, but couldn’t get the secretary and vice president (two women) to vote in favor.

The woman who failed to get a seat decided to look at reasons why she could not join and discovered that the entire board was seated improperly based on TV9’s own bylaws. She and another interested party, also a female, decided to do things correctly and organize a Members (Subscriber’s) Meeting. In following the By-Laws, they petitioned, set an agenda and conducted their meeting on July 24, 2023.

All directors were informed of the petitioners scheduled meeting but chose not to attend. Eighteen residents/subscribers, including 2 Board of Directors, met at TV9 Studio to hear the petitioners concerns and suggested action to clean up the ongoing Board of Directors problem.

All information contained within this statement can be found through copies of Mass General Law References, TV9 By-Law Document dated 1986, emails, meeting minutes and more in the office of TV Studio. Any questions residents have may be addressed through email or stamped mail sent to TV9 Studio, 580 Arcade Avenue, Seekonk, MA 02771.

Lastly, it was discovered that in November 2019 the secretary (1st speaker) went to Pawtucket Credit Union and started a $73,000 CD with TV9 monies and put her name and the then vice president’s name on the CD. She didn’t have the authority, nor the board votes to do such a thing. Monetary issues are the responsibility of the treasurer. This is highly incorrect because all financials should be in the president’s and treasurer’s name. Unfortunately, the vice president passed away more than a year ago leaving just her name on the account. It was discovered by the current president, and it took a lot of legal processes to correct this problem, which could have resulted in a financial nightmare for TV9.

This is not about gender, or whether members like each other. It is about doing the right thing and working within the bylaws and Massachusetts General Law.

David Saad Acting TV9 President

History of the Birthplace of Public Education

I grew up in the village in the cottage behind the Old Post Office. My Grandfather, Carl Swanson, was the Postmaster for many years. I frequently do Google Maps flyovers to see how things have changed since moving far away 20 years ago. Often I remember my old schools, Palmer River, Anawan, and DR. My Aunt, Ellen Swanson, was in the first class at Anawan and I was in the last class. I find it a bit disturbing to see my old school, Anawan, vacant and possibly subject to being torn down. I have fond memories of the teachers there.

Maybe you or your family members never went to this historic school, but it seems to me that the town where free public education was first established in North America should show some respect, as has been done with the Hornbine school. My ancestors also attended that school (Pierce Family).

Has anyone written a history of the schools in Rehoboth? There must still be residents who went to one of these schools as well as the North and South Rehoboth Schools. It would be good if some stories could be compiled from these early 20th century establishments. Perhaps a request could be made to gather some of these stories as well as recollections of when theses schools were built.

Glen Longstreet

From the Clerk

Hello All – Another month has quickly flown by. I hope you have been enjoying your summer and staying healthy and safe. As the summer draws to a close, I also hope you had an enjoyable Labor Day weekend!

2023 Dog Tags - Now Past Due

I am pleased we have registered 1,908 dogs so far this year, unfortunately, we still have 350+ dogs that remain unlicensed; 78 less than in 2022. After several reminders from our office to dog owners (January Census mailer; reminder letters in March prior to the annual rabies clinic and April 1st license renewal deadline; postcard reminders in May; monthly reminders in the Rehoboth Reporter since January, a 60-day grace period, reminder phone calls from our Animal Control Officer in August, and final reminder letters sent to each dog owner on August 30th), a current $10 dog license (spayed/neutered) is now $25 to renew ($10 + $15 Late Fee); and will soon to be $60. Regrettably, if we do not receive payment for your dog’s 2023 Dog License Renewal by September 15th, we will be required, by law, to start the noncriminal citation process, which will incur an additional fee of $25.00 or more, plus certified mailing costs resulting in a $10 dog license now being a minimum of $60.00. Please do not let this happen to you. 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.

Please renew your dog’s license now. You may pay by mail, at Town Clerk’s Office, or online @ https://permiteyes.us/rehoboth/ publichome.php . We also have the drop box outside of the Town Hall (340 Anawan Street-Route 118) for after-hours drop-offs.

If you no longer have your dog, please call 508-252-6502 Ext. 3109 or Ext. 3112 or you may email TownClerk@RehobothMA. gov to update our records. Please license your dog as soon as possible to avoid further action involving the Animal Control Officer. In addition to the above listed late fees, the State authorizes all Animal Control Officers to fine delinquent dog owners $50/day until they renew their dog’s yearly licenses. Please do not let that happen to you. Thanks so much for renewing your dog’s 2023 license by September 15th. Yearly dog licensing ensures all dogs in Rehoboth have updated rabies vaccinations. This process is in place to protect us all.

Town of Rehoboth Website Now ADA Accessible

On Wednesday, August 9th Selectman Solas, Kerrie, Jenn and I had a follow-up call with Civic Plus (our website provider) regarding bringing our Town website in compliance with the March 18, 2022 DOJ standards (ADA compliance and WCAG guidelines) and accessible to all forms of assistive technologies. I am pleased to announce, after the August 21st vote of the Board of Selectmen to add the Civic Plus “AudioEye” program to our town website, Rehoboth’s website is now accessible to All!! Please check out the new features at our Town Website:www.RehobothMA.gov

On the bottom right side of each page of our website you will see the ADA compliance image:

Laura Schwall

Take Back Your Yard

If you click on the icon, anyone visiting our website can change the view of the webpage to make it easily viewable (the size of the cursor, text size-spacing-font, change the contrast or colors, even choose “guide” or “window” for ease of reading longer website content). Below is an image of the selection screen you can choose once you click on the icon above:

Please try it out . . . I personally found it helpful by increasing the text, changing the contrast based on surrounding lighting in the room and my favorite was “guide” and/or “window” while reading longer text. Thank you all involved in making Rehoboth’s website accessible to all!! Thank you Civic Plus, Jenn & Kerrie (Town Clerk’s Office), Selectman Solas, the Board of Selectmen and Selectmen’s Office staff, along with the Rehoboth IT Committee and chairperson Anna Deignan! Together we all made this wonderful feature happen quickly - thank you all!

2023 Street Listings Are Available

If you would like a copy of the 2023 Street Listings, there is a charge of $15.00. Please feel free to stop by town hall and pick up your copy, while supplies last. 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.

Upcoming Fall Town Meeting

Tuesday, November 7, 2023

At the August 21st Board of Selectmen Meeting, it was voted to open the Fall Town Meeting Warrant on 8/21/23 and close the warrant on Monday, September 11, 2023. This year’s meeting is scheduled to be held at Francis Farm, Museum Building, on Tuesday, November 7th, as printed on the 2023 Census Calendar. Please Note: If you viewed the 8-21-2023 Selectmen’s meeting, this date has been changed from what was voted during that meeting. The Board will vote this change (11-7-2023) at their upcoming September 11, 2023 meeting. All warrant articles for the 11-7-2023 Fall Town Meeting warrant are due to the Office of the Selectmen by Monday, September 11th no later than 12:00 noon ~ Thank you and we look forward to seeing you in November. More details to come as the meeting gets closer.

Attorney General Approved General Bylaw Amendment

The Attorney General opined regarding our May 9, 2023 Annual Town Meeting (ATM) Bylaw Amendments on Wednesday, August 9, 2023. They approved articles 10, 28, 32 and 33 and requested a 90-day extension on Article 27, which Town Counsel has accepted. For those who may not remember, Article 27 from the 5-9-23 ATM was the Helicopter Landing License submitted by the Board of Selectmen. Town Counsel is working with the AG’s Office and we should have an answer soon. I will keep you posted. Once received, we will post and update our bylaws.

General Code – Bylaw Codification Update

Speaking of our bylaws, as you know, Rehoboth is in the process of codifying our bylaws through General Code. This is a process of making our bylaws more easily accessible to everyone; a process which I have been wishing to implement since I became your Town Clerk over ten years ago. If you would like to see what

the finished process will look like, please view Swansea’s codified “e-code 360” bylaws::

General Bylaws: https://ecode360.com/SW3945

Zoning Bylaws: https://ecode360.com/34393893

As of today, all Department Heads and Committee Chairs received the first phase of the Codification project to review on July 7th. Conservation, Planning and Dr. Panofsky were extremely helpful with the “Organizational Analysis & Table of Contents” review process, thank you all. I compiled all responses and submitted them to General Code by the July 21, 2023 deadline. In addition to General Code, the Selectmen, Town Administrator and Finance Director received a copy of the first phase of the submission as well.

We requested a Red-Lined document of the proposed changes be sent to us for the next phase of the project. General Code is now preparing the “Manuscript and Editorial/Legal Analysis” of our bylaws, which is due back to us by September 29, 2023. We will have 45-days to review the document and respond to General Code by December 1st. As you know from my previous article regarding the General Code Codification process, this process would normally cost the Town just under $10,000 to complete; however, the Town of Rehoboth was fortunate to be the first city/ town in Massachusetts to qualify to have this codification project funded by ARPA funds; therefore, no cost to the Town. I am so excited to be starting the codification process. I will update you of the next steps once we receive the redlined documents back from General Code at the end of the month. Thank you all for making this happen! A win-win for us all.

In closing, Jenn, Kerrie and I wish you all a safe, happy, most enjoyable September. Good luck to those students, teachers and administrators beginning the 2023-2024 school year. We hope all Rehoboth residents stay healthy and safe. Please enjoy the beautiful fall weather that should be coming soon. Thank

DR.

The Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving Holiday Gifts

The Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Inc. is a local public charity whose mission is to serve Rehoboth residents by providing Christmas gifts, holiday support, and special occasion needs to our Rehoboth children and their families who are facing challenging times in their lives. In October we will begin taking request for all holiday gifts. For those in need of assistance we have forms available on our website www.rehobothblizzardofgiving.org. These completed forms MUST be received, by November 8th - of course earlier than November 8th would be wonderful! We cannot accept mailed lists that are not on the forms found on our website. We hope to help make your holiday season brighter!

As always, we are grateful for our wonderful Rehoboth community support! Your generosity allows us to continue to serve our Rehoboth families with children in need. As always, we welcome your participation and support of our mission, we are a 501-c3 nonprofit. As in past years, there will be gift request “snowflake” boards located around town and boxes for drop off. Please check our website (www.rehobothblizzardofgiving. org ) for information on Snowflake board locations, gift drop- off locations, and information on adopting children/families. Until our “snowflakes” are posted in November, the best way to provide support is by providing gift cards and tax-deductible monetary donations. Checks should 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. We continue to provide birthday support and Birthday forms are also available on our website. Questions may be directed through our website: www.rehobothblizzardofgiving.org, email: rehobothblizzard@ gmail.com or by calling Colleen McBride at (508) 966-8122. All personal information will be kept confidential. We thank everyone for all they do to make this project so successful!

God bless,

Colleen McBride, Cathy Edington, & Cheryl Santos

Rehoboth Animal Shelter News

The Rehoboth Animal Shelter has a number of adoptable animals waiting for good homes. Ziti and Linguini are a sweet pair of sister kitties, a bonded pair who should be adopted together. They are friendly, about six months old, spayed, vaccinated, and combo-tested negative. You can learn more about them, or our other adoptable pets, at Pretfinder.com. To report a lost or found pet, or to schedule a visit, call 508-252-5421 ext. 126 and leave a message.

Did you know that our taxes do not pay for all the necessary medical care or shelter improvements? Additional donations are welcome -- make checks payable to “Town of Rehoboth Animal Welfare Fund” and send to the Town Office at 340 Anawan Street.

Another thing is know about is the new Rehoboth Pet Pantry outside the Rehoboth shelter, created as a Silver Award project by Girl Scout Noelle Blais. Those with pet food to donate can leave it there; those who need some may take some. Many thanks to Noelle for her thoughtfulness.

News from the Rehoboth Food Pantry

Happy September, Rehoboth! Yet another season is upon us, and another reason to say THANK YOU to all of you! We at the Pantry LOVE this “broken record” sound of saying Thank You! - as each of you keep the shelves stocked as well as giving us the ability to continue providing heating assistance by donating money! Grocery bills (as well as energy costs) continue to rise - we are here to help our neighbors in need. As the weather starts to get cooler, remember that we also offer emergency fuel assistance!!

Special thanks to some of our wonderful businesses and neighbors goes to:

• The Rehoboth Town Events Committee for collecting food at the recent clambake

• The West Dighton Christian Church which continues to send needed food donations

• The Horton Estates Social Committee, which collects donations for us at their birthday celebrations, Being a “Right to Farm” town, we are blessed by so many of you who bring us your extras from your garden produce (our clients love them!).

We are very grateful for the community’s support with food and monetary donations. The food donations are a great help to fill in holes in our food supply. We also send a huge thank you to the Rehoboth Congregational Church which ran a School Supply Backpack Drive and donated 20 backpacks filled with supplies, to the pantry!! The RCC is currently holding a food drive, so extra thank you’s as well! Thank you, Allison for reaching out, and helping out! You are all such a blessing! Thank you!

As you know, our volunteers are hard at work every Wednesday (for prepping) and Thursday (for distribution) - and we are grateful for all the time and effort they put in!!

Some reminders: Every Thursday, between 2:30 and 4:30 the pantry opens its doors (located in the rear of the building) to help provide food and other necessities to residents in need. If you have trouble getting to the pantry, please call us at 508-493-1922 so we can arrange a delivery of groceries for you.

For food donations, our generous friends have provided a number of convenient drop off locations to donate:

• Blanding Library – Bay State Road, Rehoboth

• Land-Tek – 477 Winthrop Street, Rehoboth

• Munroe Feed & Supply – 200 Fairview Ave., Rehoboth

• Harvest Tap and Table – 2685 Grand Army of the Republic Hwy, Swansea, MA 02777

Monetary donations can be made directly on our website https:// rehobothfoodpantryma.org/, via PayPal at https://www.paypal.com/ donate/?hosted_button_id=DR4FU8URSBZU4, or can be mailed to:

The Rehoboth Food Pantry; 51 Winthrop Street, Rehoboth, MA 02769

Thank You All for keeping Rehoboth such a wonderful town to live in!

Looking Back… to Old-Fashioned Thanksgivings

By Phyllis Dupere

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.

https://rehobothfoodpantryma.org/

https://www.facebook.com/ RehobothFoodPantry/

Ziti and Linguini

VICTORIA

President RIAR 2013, Broker Associate Liscensed in MA & RI

(401) 458-2160 Cell victoriadoran.remax@gmail.com

RLT Receives Palmer River Access Design Grant

Many residents and visitors appreciate the beauty of Rehoboth’s open spaces, but not everyone knows how Rehoboth Land Trust (RLT) finances its important role in preserving these special places. As a private nonprofit corporation, established under the Internal Revenue Code 501(c)3, RLT is dedicated to preserving Rehoboth’s natural habitats and scenic landscapes. Unlike town government agencies, RLT functions solely through the efforts of volunteers, without any paid staff, and receives its funding entirely from charitable private donations and grants. So, when we receive a grant, as we recently did, we think it’s a big deal!

(401) 864-1644 Cell

In July 2023, RLT applied for a competitive grant offered by the Narragansett Bay Estuary Program and Roger Williams University to support planning projects that will enhance habitat quality and public access in the Narragansett Bay watershed. We proposed a study of our 12-acre Mason Street Conservation Area on the Palmer River because of its compelling and unique relevance to the grant’s objectives.

RLT’s 80 Mason Street property, on which the Town holds a Conservation Restriction, has a trail leading to the Palmer River and a lot leased to neighboring Moonrose Farm for agricultural use. The property features a tributary of the Palmer River that suffers from old undersized culverts that restrict tidal circulation. Present conditions at the property do not adequately support boating access, habitat quality objectives, or agricultural operations. Our grant proposal identified each of these issues as significant topics for a focused planning and design study.

Dr. Gian Calandrelli

RLT’s grant application task force consisted of our recently appointed Treasurer and lead proposal author, Abby McWain, along with Clerk Dan Lanier and President Carol Entin. Working under a tight schedule, they collaborated to produce a winning proposal that addressed the critical aspects of the Mason Street property that require improvements. They sought guidance from Wenley Ferguson, Director of Habitat Restoration for Save the Bay, who had initially recommended pursuing this funding opportunity. The Rehoboth Conservation Commission, Friends of the Palmer River, and Moonrose Farm endorsed the grant application. RLT’s proposal drew strength from our combination of task force talents, local support, and ability to demonstrate a firm grasp of the issues surrounding the Mason Street site.

We learned on August 18, 2023 that RLT would receive the full requested amount of our grant request, $79,000 for this Design Phase. This grant will allow us to hire an environmental and engineering consultant to assist us in the study. RLT is grateful and proud to have been awarded this funding that will supplement our efforts to plan habitat and public access improvements at The Mason Street Conservation Area!

As always, we encourage donations to RLT to support us in our mission to preserve and enhance Rehoboth’s natural areas for everyone to enjoy. Please visit www. rehobothlandtrust.org.

DORAN

Low inventory...high demand...perfect time to sell! We can help buyers as well!

Rehoboth 2nd Annual Clambake

The Rehoboth Town Events Committee had its Second Annual Clambake at Francis Farm on Saturday, August 12. Everyone had a great time once again! A shout out to my fellow committee members and other friends who pitched in!

Thanks once again to the sponsors who contributed to the cause, such as Chartley’s Country Store, Portside Fish Market, Steve Nunes, Rehoboth Reporter, B&R Fournier and WinWaste! And let’s not forget our Bakemasters, Bob Caron, and Chico Charbonneau who were in turn aided by Matthew LeComte and Andrew Donato. Music was provided by Donnelly and Carmichael.

J & L Landscaping & Garden Center

363 Taunton Ave., (Rt. 44) Seekonk, MA • (508) 399-8947

Now Budding Hardy Mums, Asters and Montaux Daisies

• Pumpkins, all sizes • Bushel Baskets • Witches • Terra Cotta

Pots & Hanging Mums • Hay Bales • Corn Stalks • Fall Flags

• Wicker Baskets • Fall Bows • Scarecrows • Wreaths

Available for Delivery or Pick-up:

• Mulch • Stone • Screened Loam • Pool - Mason Sand • Stone Dust

SeaSoned Wood (cord-1/2 cord) Pick-up or Delivery

WE CARRY Cobblestones - All Sizes

• Grass Seed • Fall Fertilizer • Pellitized Lime • Trees • Shrubs • Perennials

Slice Seeding & Aerating Service Available.

Hours: Mon-Sat 8AM-5PM, Sun 8AM-4PM

This was my final event for the Rehoboth Events Committee. For years I have organized and planned local events designed to foster a sense of community in Rehoboth. I consider myself blessed to have had the opportunity to to work with so many fine people and businesses. Thank you all for the support you have given our fine town. I will honestly miss our community.

I would also like to urge like-minded people to join the Events Committee. As Jen and I are both leaving, we need a few more difference-makers to run the Committee. Please contact the interim coordinator Kelli Trexler@ kellitrex@gmail.com to express your interest and find out more!

~Dave LeComte

Dave and Jen LeComte

Matt LeComte, Chico Charbonneau, Bob Caron

Kelli Trexler, Jen LeComte, Dave LeComte, Dawn Crooks, Lydia Tavares, and Lisa Halejko

This photo of a Mama Deer and her Fawn was taken outside of

home in Rehoboth. Submitted by Pamela Lambrecht.

Rehoboth Ramblings

by Leslie Patterson

Books to the Ceiling, Books to the Sky

It’s another rainy day. I should use my time productively by tidying up around here, maybe setting aside the books to donate to the Blanding Library’s used book sale, coming up Oct. 6-8. But maybe I could start by writing about how hard it is for some of us to part with books from an emotional point of view. I am not talking about rare books or being a book collector as such.

The “books to the ceiling” line is from a favorite poem by the late, great children’s author Arnold Lobel, who wrote the beloved Frog & Toad series. It’s from his book “Whiskers & Rhymes” and it goes: “Books to the ceiling, books to the sky. My piles of books are a mile high. How I love them! How I need them! I’ll have a long beard by the time I read them.”

Borrowing books from the library is great because you have such a wide choice of things to read for free (and in many formats, I would add). It’s also great that you don’t have to keep the book when you are finished! It goes back to the library shelf, rather than sitting on your book shelves. A win-win situation.

It’s a win-win situation when you donate your gently used books to a library book sale too. You can clear out some books that others might want to buy and in doing so, help raise money for your library. You can enjoy looking for new book bargains when you come to the sale. There are plenty of all kinds of books to browse through and choose from, though maybe not piled up to the ceiling!

Sometimes I feel guilty when people conflate those who read a lot of books (I believe we are referred to as “avid readers”) with those who buy a lot of books. I buy only a few books a year at most but I read at least one a week or more. I like to think that I’m helping the library’s circulation statistics anyway, even if not directly contributing to the author’s finances.

Why is it so hard for book-lovers to part with their books? During the first few months of the pandemic when we were all cooped up at home, I thought it would be a good time to re-visit some books sitting on the shelf. And I did, to a certain extent, rediscover some old favorites. But now I see a book just collecting dust and I think that if I couldn’t summon enough interest to read this three years ago why am I still hanging on to it?

Another major reason to support libraries is that they offer a sense of community. A recent heart-warming example of this was reported in The New York Times (August 25), describing a reading of Robert McCloskey’s classic children’s book “Blueberries for Sal” at the Curtis Memorial Library in Brunswick, Maine, which attracted over 200 people.

What made this book event special was that the reader was Sal herself, Sarah McCloskey, now age 78, and the inspiration for her father’s book all those years ago. Yes, she still lives in Maine. Robert McCloskey’s most famous children’s book is “Make Way for Ducklings” which is so beloved that the duckling statues (by sculptor Nancy Schon) continue to be a popular attraction at the Boston Public Garden.

Readers get especially attached to classic children’s books. I am particularly fond of certain children’s books, those by Arnold Lobel, as mentioned above, and Ludwig Bemelman’s Madeline books (“In an old house in Paris that was covered with vines…”) and my all-time favorite, “The Wind in the Willows”. And let’s not forget Beatrix Potter and her charming stories.

Writing in LitHub (lithub.com) Lewis Buzbee, a San Francisco writer, discusses this feeling of attachment in “On the difficulty of getting rid of books”. He says: “Books are written, published, sold, then, quite happily, re-sold, perhaps more than once; a single book might be read by countless eyes. This is one of the unique qualities of the book: no matter how many times it’s been sold, or read, a book is still a working machine… I never want to get rid of any books. I don’t get rid of them, per se; rather, I set them afloat, in search of new homes.” Now that’s a positive way to look at it!

Recreation at Francis Farm

By Joe Siegel

Nearly two years after the Town of Rehoboth purchased Francis Farm, the site has become the social epicenter for the community.

A volleyball pit is now open and more activities are in the works, according to Selectman Rob Johnson.

A pickleball court will soon be up and running. A playground was planned, but a lack of funding has stalled that project temporarily. The old playground behind the Anawan School had been removed following the acquisition of the building and grounds by the Housing Authority.

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Volleyball Pit at Rehoboth Rec

Johnson said residents can use a basketball court, a horseshoe pit, and two bocce courts.

The Council on Aging is now at Francis Farm, three years after a devastating fire destroyed the Senior Center at 55 Bay State Road, Voters at the May 2021 town meeting approved the purchase of the 47 acre property at a cost of $2.8 million. The building which had been used as a museum is now serving as the town’s new polling location. The “white building” is serving as the facility for health services and the Veterans Service Officer.

The building’s second floor is being used for meetings for town employees and various officials.

The Arcade is also being utilized by town officials for department head meetings.

Rehoboth Community Health Appointments

By Joe Siegel

The Board of Selectmen approved the hiring of Melissa Shea to serve as Outreach and Human Services Coordinator.

Richard Charbonneau was appointed to serve as Director of Food Services at the Council on Aging, which is now located at Francis Farm.

“We’ve got some great ideas that we can’t wait to see come to fruition,” said Elizabeth Doyle, a member of the Board of Human Services and Community Health. The board was appointed in December 2022 by the Board of Selectmen.

The other members include Dr. Robert Lambe, Richard Panofsky, Brittany Bixenman, Kimberly Ciociola, Rachel Smith, MarieJuanita DiGioia, and Dr. Bruce Thayer.

The board meets on the third Thursday of every month.

Selectmen Chair Skip Vadnais praised the work of the board, noting they served as a “safety net” for the entire community.

“It’s a very rewarding job when you see how many people you can help,” said Selectman George Solas. “It’s a real warm feeling seeing them leave smiling and knowing that they’re going to be okay.”

Search for a New Dighton-Rehoboth Business Manager

By Joe Siegel

The search is on for a new Business Manager for the DightonRehoboth Regional School District.

Robert Baxter, who had served in the position for two years, tendered his resignation last month.

Superintendent Bill Runey praised Baxter’s work for the district. “He made our district better than it was before he got here,” Runey said at the August 8 school committee meeting. “I also think it’s a real testament to the teamwork we’ve built over the course of the last 13 months.”

Runey noted there will be a screening committee with school representation.

Baxter 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 wrote in his July 19 resignation letter.

Cornhole at Rehoboth Rec

Rehoboth Signs Vandalized

By Joe Siegel

A number of street signs have been vandalized in the last few weeks. “We are literally having signs being cut down on the streets,” Selectman Lenny Mills said at Monday’s meeting.

“Just be aware if you see someone other than a townsperson working around the sign, whether it’s a stop sign which could be very dangerous or even signs for bicyclists, are being cut down at soil level,” Mills explained.

Mills said the signs aren’t being stolen or removed, but rather, left in the “high grass.” Mills urges residents to contact the Rehoboth Police if they see any suspicious activities around the signs.

“It’s a real concern,” Mills added.

No New Fitness Court for D-R

By Joe Siegel

The School Committee rejected plans for a new outdoor fitness court at Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School. The court would have been used primarily for stretching exercises.

“We believe it would be good for the community and for the schools,” said Robert Baxter, the Business Administrator for the school district. Baxter told the school committee about the benefits of the court at their August 22 meeting. “We are constantly looking for ways to enhance the image of the high school,” said Superintendent Bill Runey. “I think something like this would be very eye-catching.”

Baxter noted a new court would attract new students and staff, in addition to augmenting aging athletic facilities.

Committee vice-chair Chris Andrade said it didn’t seem like the “right time” to move ahead with the project, considering the other needs in the district.

“I see this as a beautiful project, but I also see that the optics are terrible,” said Dighton Selectman Leonard Hull, noting he had met with parents and members of the teachers’ union in the past. “They asked for money and were told the money wasn’t available,” Hull noted.

The overall cost for the equipment is $155,000. The court would have been situated on Regional Road so it can be visible to the community, Baxter explained. Installation was to begin in the Spring of 2024.

Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Massachusetts had provided a $50,000 grant for the project. An additional $43,000 in grants and the donation of a concrete slab would also have been used to defray expenses. A community fundraising effort would have been launched to pay for the remainder of the project, along with money from the high school facilities budget and in-kind donations.

“The School Committee’s decision was sage given the timing and optics,” Runey said on Friday. “I’m just pleased that our new Grant-writer, Renee Moorby, is already demonstrating her value to the District. One of my goals is to eventually codify fundraising efforts for the District. If that comes to fruition, perhaps we could have another chance at a similar project.”

Shady Bend Purchase Authorized

By Joe Siegel

The Rehoboth Board of Selectmen authorized the purchase of the property known as “Shady Bend” at their August 21 meeting.

The town will use $45,000 from the Historic Preservation Reserve of the Community Preservation Act (CPA) to purchase the buildings and property located at 133 Bay State Road.

Voters approved a warrant article to purchase the property at last May’s Town Meeting.

The building already resides in Rehoboth’s Historical Village District. The Historical Commission plans to restore the building through grants and donations.

“The building has significant historical value as it originally served as the office for the Union Manufacturing Company that operated for 100 years in that area,” members of the Commission wrote in the warrant. “It later became a post office and then tea house for many years with guests arriving by the trolley that ran through the village.”

Property at Shady Bend

The Seekonk Scene

September has always been a month of changes. Summer vacations are over and it’s the start of many new and exciting things. Whether it’s going back to a familiar school or attending a new school or college, there’s new people and challenges to look forward to. It’s also the start of Autumn on September 23, when we welcome the cooler weather, with apple and pumpkin picking, football games, and delicious cider donuts. I hope everyone gets off to a new fresh start this month.

The Town Clerk’s office is cleaning up from the summer, finishing up the last of the late census and dog licenses forms. This time of the year is busy with marriage intention papers for Fall weddings. We are also starting to prepare for not only a Special Election on October 24 and a Town Meeting November 13 but the many elections to be held in 2024.

Florice Craig

There will be a Special Election on Tuesday October 24 to see if the Town of Seekonk and 10 other communities will approve 285.9 million for the building of a new Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School. The other communities are; Sherborn, Medfield, Walpole, Millis, Medway, Norfolk, Wrentham, Plainville, Franklin, North Attleboro. The Town of Seekonk’s website has a link on the front page directing you to the Tri-county website. There you will be able to read about the project in detail and see a rendering of what it will look like. Voting will either take place at the High School or Town Hall that has yet to be determined. There won’t be any early voting. This office will keep the public informed through the Town’s website of any changes, as the election date gets closer if you have questions. Please do not hesitate to call our office. 508-336-2920.

Lorraine Sorel the Assistant Town Clerk and I will be attending the Massachusetts Town Clerk conference in Springfield, MA on September 21. This year’s focus will be Elections 2024. Please see the below a chart of election dates to remember for 2024.

If you have any questions or concerns about your voting status you can either check with us in the Town Clerk’s office or on line. Have wonderful month.

Florice Craig, Town Clerk & Lorraine Sorel, Asst. Town Clerk

Open Seat on the Seekonk Water District Board of Water Commissioners

There will be an open seat on the Seekonk Water District (SWD) Board of Water Commissioners (BoWC) in the 2024 election. The SWD is an award-winning Water District that provides over 440 million gallons of water to the businesses and homes in Seekonk. A Commissioner’s duties include providing policy and guidance to the SWD. The BoWC meets once a month and there is a stipend with the position.

If you are interested in contributing to this important effort, please e-mail me at larrimergSWDBoWC@yahoo.com.

Guy Larrimer Seekonk Board of Water Commissioners

Celebrate Seekonk Day 2023

Saturday, September 30th 12 noon to 3 pm

At the Seekonk Library

This event is Sponsored by the Seekonk Cultural Council.

The Seekonk Cultural council is excited to announce that the third annual Celebrate Seekonk Day is scheduled for Saturday, September 30th from 12:00 to 3:00 at the Seekonk Public Library, rain or shine.

A free day filled with music, entertainment, bubbles, laughter and fun for the whole family! Our goal is to spotlight the rich culture and talents of the citizens in our hometown. There will be stories, dance and music from the Pokanoket Tribe. You’ll be amazed by the talents of the Hurley Middle School Band and an athletic Karate demo. And Henry the Juggler will be on hand to amaze the eyes and hearts of young and old alike.

We will offer a gallery show with local professional artists works hanging alongside town student work. And there will be an opportunity for everyone attending to add to a community art project.

Other activities include Kindness Rock painting, Shadow puppets for preschoolers, face painting, group games, Master Gardener booth, Save-a-Pet special guests, lots and lots of bubbles, and more!

We will have representation of local government agencies, town boards and local small businesses as well.

Please bring a donation for Doorways to be entered into a special raffle.

There will be drop off and pick areas in the library parking lot, but parking places are limited. Overflow parking will be available in the Gammino Pond and Hurley Middle School parking lots or on local side streets.

It will be a free event with the general public invited. A day designed for every age group to take part in, and to Celebrate Seekonk!

For the full schedule of activities, times, and up-to-date information, follow us on Facebook @seekonkculturalcouncil

COMMUNITY & TEACHERS FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

We have the most loyal members on the planet and we thank and appreciate every one of them. Police, Firemen, Teachers, City Workers and neighbors in our Community built our very successful Credit Union family for over 60 years.

“Empty Bowls” Raises Money to Fill Cupboards in Seekonk

Jacqueline “Jackie” Glum was inspired to develop an “Empty Bowls” project with her elementary school students to help connect them to the community and foster a culture of service and caring. She made it creative, kid-friendly, and fun, but, as with all “Empty Bowl” events, the goal was to help fight hunger.

Jackie obtained a grant from the Seekonk Cultural Council to purchase the clay and glaze used to make the bowls, and then involved students from grades K-5 in fashioning the clay into bowls. After the clay was kiln-dried, the students painted the bowls – and each bowl was as distinctive as the student who created it. Then the Aitken PTO hosted a family event where the bowl were sold as a fundraiser for the Doorways food pantry.

The event itself - “IceCreamapalooza II” – was a festival of fun, music and ice cream. Local student-musicians from the School of Rock provided live entertainment, and dozens of gallons of ice cream was donated by the Outback Steak House in town. “Celebrity scoopers” doled out generous portions of ice cream – the scoopers represented the police department, the fire department, the library, the school system, the town government, and the food pantry. A wonderful time was had by all - and the event grossed over $2,000.00, which surpassed last year’s considerable success. Said Diane Fox of Doorways, “There will be a lot fewer empty bowls in town because of the work of those students – and their teacher.”

Empty Bowls supports food-related charitable organizations around the world, and has raised millions of dollars to help end hunger. Doorways is grateful to Ms. Glum, the Seekonk Council for the Arts, Outback Steak House, and the students, faculty, staff and families of Aitken School for their support.

Sharon St. Hilaire Award for Community Service awarded to Doorways Food Pantry

On Monday, August 7th, Doorways was honored by the Seekonk Public Library and its Trustees to be this year’s recipient of the prestigious Sharon St. Hilaire Award for Community Service. This award was established in memory of Sharon St. Hilaire, former Library Director, to recognize a lifetime of service by a public employee or community volunteer.

For the past 21 years, Doorways has been blessed, through the efforts of our many volunteers and community partners to serve our Seekonk neighbors in need for whom food insecurity is very real.

At Doorways, our goal is to make sure that no family ever goes without food.

More than 70 families, many with small children, rely each week on Doorways for their food. Over this same 21 years, we have distributed close to 2 million pounds of food and the need continues and grows.

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Jackie Glum, art teacher at Aitken School

However, we know that we cannot do it alone. We have been blessed by and so grateful for the generous support of the wonderful people of Seekonk and beyond. Your support has made a real difference in the lives of our neighbors in this Town that we all call home and means the world to us!

Narcan Available to Town Residents

By Joe Siegel

Free doses of Narcan are available to Seekonk town residents at the public safety building at 500 Taunton Avenue while supplies last. The medication, which reverses the effects of opioid overdoses, is available from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday.

All interactions are confidential and no personal information is required. The medication is available through a program in association with SSTAR, a healthcare and addiction treatment center in Fall River.

According to the state’s Department of Public Health, opioid addiction has claimed more than 2,000 lives each year for the past seven years and 29 lives of town residents since 2015. There were 2,357 confirmed and estimated opioid-related overdose deaths in 2022, surpassing the previous peak in 2021 by an estimated 57 deaths. Preliminary data also show there were 522 confirmed and estimated opioid-related overdose deaths in the first three months of 2023, a 7.7 percent decrease (an estimated 44 fewer deaths) from the same time period in 2022.

“As Attorney General, I made combatting the opioid crisis a top priority, and that commitment continues as Governor while we work to provide individuals and communities with the support they need for treatment, prevention and recovery,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Too many Massachusetts families, particularly families of color, have been impacted by this crisis, and in order to effectively respond, we need to address the gaps in the system by advancing long-term solutions that include housing, jobs, mental health care and more resources for our cities and towns.”

For more information, contact EMS@ seekonkfd.com or visit the public safety building and a staff member will provide assistance.

David Francis, Doorways President and Alyssa Richard, Chairperson, Seekonk Board of Library Trustees

David Francis, Doorways President and Alyssa Ricard, Chairperson, Seekonk Library Board of Trustees

Harrassment Allegations Lodged at TV 9 Board

By Joe Siegel

On August 16, former board members of Seekonk cable access Channel TV9 told the Select Board they endured harassment and threats by male board members.

Denise Poliquin, who served on the board of directors for four years, said female members witnessed “accusations, lies, fingerpointing, yelling, bullying, discrimination, and threats to other board members.” Poliquin recalled the tense atmosphere at the board’s May 9 meeting, noting it was “intimidating to disagree or raise concerns.”

Another former member, Kristin Dobbs Montgomery, called the environment at TV9 “toxic” and “hostile.”

“I’m here to make everyone aware of the blatant harassment, intimidation, and abuse by the men on the board that occurred consistently in our monthly board meetings,” Montgomery stated. ‘The hostile and disrespectful way the men treated the women was unacceptable. I began to feel frightened to be in the room with them.”

Montgomery recalled the apprehension she felt at a February board meeting. “I was scared to open my mouth for fear of being attacked or retaliated against. It was not an open or collaborative environment.”

Former member Deborah Hoch said she had been “illegally removed” from her position at TV9 and said the July 24 meeting vote was “illegitimate.” Hoch said she had not been informed about the meeting and was out of town when the vote occurred.

According to the meeting minutes, David Saad and Michael Dressler were in attendance, along with 18 Seekonk resident/ subscribers.

The members’ terms had expired according to the TV-9 bylaws. Hoch believes she was retaliated against because of her questioning of financial decisions.

Hoch said she had also sought out financial records and had been rebuffed by the Board President. Hoch requested that the Select Board conduct a forensic audit of TV9. “The situation became intolerable for the three female board members this past year,” Hoch noted. “Being told I was on the board long enough and young blood was needed is not only a discriminatory remark but an insult. Decisions are being made by board members which should have been made by the entire board.”

At a meeting held on August 7, a temporary Board of Directors was installed. Saad was named President. Dressler was named VicePresident/Treasurer, and Doreen Taylor was named as Clerk.

The other board members include Peter Hoogerzeil and TV9 personality Jeffrey Starr Mararian, who both attended the July 24 meeting.

Poliquin said the current board is “invalid.”

Saad had no comment about Hoch and Peloquin’s allegations when contacted Thursday by the Reporter.

Select Board Chairman Michael Healy said he had no prior knowledge of the harassment allegations. The Select Board will not take any action at this time, he noted.

In a July 24 letter to Saad, Taylor had expressed concern over “operating procedures and alike that do not align with the TV9 By-Laws.”

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“These include Massachusetts General Law; sections of the Open Meeting Law for public meetings and Seekonk Town By-Laws Regulations for public meetings. Earlier this year we heard through the Select Board (there had been) complaints received alleging wrongdoing within the Board of Directors and liability that could put the Town of Seekonk in serious jeopardy,” Taylor wrote. “The complaint also led the Select Board to believe there were financial implications as well.”

A meeting will be held in December for the purpose of presenting the TV-9 membership with a new set of bylaws. The board will meet multiple times in the next few months to make recommendations. A new board will also be elected. All TV 9 subscribers are eligible to vote.

On the website, tv9seekonk.com, the station’s mission statement reads: TV9 Seekonk is a non-profit public access TV corporation governed by a 7 member board of publicly elected directors. Day to day operation is managed by the Executive Director. TV9 Seekonk is dedicated to providing a professional quality production facility for access users to freely express and share unique ideas via original programming with the Seekonk community.

Seekonk to Vote on New Tri-County High School

Cadime Notes ‘Significant Impact’ if School Project Passes

By Joe Siegel

Seekonk residents will be required to pay their share of the cost of a new building for TriCounty Regional Vocational Technical High School. A special election has been scheduled for October 24 for the voters to decide on funding for the $285.9 million project.

Some reimbursement of the cost would be paid by the Massachusetts School Building Association. “The anticipation is the MSBA will provide funding of $83 million,” Town Administrator Shawn Cadime said at the August 16 Select Board meeting.

The remaining $200 million would be paid by the 11-member communities, which include Sherborn, Medfield, Walpole, Millis, Medway, Norfolk, Wrentham, Plainville, Franklin, North Attleboro, and Seekonk.

According to Cadime, Seekonk’s share would be $1.1 million over a 30 year period. “That’s a significant financial impact,” Cadime said, adding the Select Board would need to hold a discussion regarding future town budgets. A debt exclusion, which is a temporary tax increase, may be proposed.

“We can fully expect to have reductions on the Seekonk Public Schools as well as the town side to offset the $1.1 million if we don’t have an additional funding source associated with (the project),” Cadime noted.

The first anticipated debt payment would be for fiscal year 2028 if the project is approved. Cadime said that provides the town with a four year window to plan for annual budgets.

Tri-County is operating at a capacity of 1000 students, who have chosen one of 16 vocational programs. The district has carefully maintained the building, but the infrastructure and building systems are now beyond their useful life, according to members of the TCRVTHS Project Team.

The existing deficiencies include wear and tear/failures of major sub systems, plumbing, electrical, and building envelope. In 2014, a structural review was performed with the purpose of providing professional insight as to the condition of the school building. At that time, it was determined that the cost to repair failing systems with no updates to the building structure would be in excess of $150,000,000.

Many options were studied to solve the existing facility issues, including:

• renovation of the existing building,

• addition and renovation of the existing building,

• a new building and demolition of the existing building.

The building options all cost about the same, but the disruption of a renovation project made less sense to the School Committee, and community than the new building proposal, which was selected as the preferred option.

Taking Action On Unfinished Subdivisions

By Joe Siegel

The Seekonk Planning Board is in the process of reviewing incomplete subdivisions throughout town and will be considering formal enforcement/ default findings for a number of these developments at their September 12th meeting.

According to Town Planner John Aubin, the Planning Board met with Town Counsel to review their options with regard to enforcement over several of their last meetings. “Under Massachusetts Law the duty to present a newly developed road for acceptance as a public way is upon the developer of that roadway or their successor(s) in interest in the land comprising the road,” Aubin explained. “Until the acceptance process is completed and roadway is laid out by the Select Board and accepted by Town Meeting, the Town has limited ability to legally enter and conduct any work towards completing, repairing, or maintaining public improvements.”

In a joint meeting with the Select Board on June 21, Aubin warned about the future of Chelsea Drive: “Ultimately that roadway is going to fail. The trees are going to get so big that they’re going to impact the stormwater drainage there.”

Aubin said the Planning Board is working to notify the developers of and residents within these developments of any known deficiencies and the fact that their roads are not accepted as public ways.

“The Planning Board has also reached out to the Select Board and Board of Assessors with regard to the land comprising the roadways in order to assess potential acquisition of necessary public interest (ownership) in the roadway parcels,” Aubin said. “It is hoped that these efforts will result in either encouraging or compelling the completion of any incomplete public improvements and deferred maintenance and facilitate the ultimate presentation of the roadways in question for formal acceptance by Town Meeting.”

Seekonk TA Receives High Marks

By Joe Siegel

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

Seekonk Town Administrator

Shawn Cadime received positive reviews from the Select Board for his annual job performance evaluation. “Shawn’s continued professionalism is instrumental to the board being efficient and effective,” Chairman Michael Healy said at the August 30 meeting. “His leadership is also paramount to the board being able to make decisions knowing he is acting with all of our best interests in mind.”

Cadime was also rated highly for his financial management skills. Healy said Cadime had created a “comprehensive financial policy” for Seekonk. “The TA is a true team leader,” Healy continued. “He works extremely hard to mentor every department head that he has. The TA goes above and beyond to protect all of his department heads at all costs, even when some of those department heads undermine him. We are fortunate to have him run our town. The Town Administrator has proven his loyalty and dedication to the town over and over.”

Board member Michelle Hines expressed reservations with the evaluation process, noting the three months she had served on the board was not sufficient to provide a proper review. Hines previously served on the board for three years and was elected last April.

Member Pam Pozzi felt department heads should have been allowed to share their opinions about their interactions with Cadime. “Honestly, for a fair assessment, you have to get input from other people,” Pozzi said.

Cadime has been serving in the position since 2014. He is also a member of the Fall River City Council. Cadime’s employment contract with the town expires in 2025. Cadime’s salary is $188, 068. It will increase to $191, 830 on August 1, 2024.

Dr. Gabriel Wassouf

Dr. Gabriel Wassouf

Dr. Alicia Tavares

Rehoboth Residents to Participate in Boston Marathon® Jimmy Fund Walk Presented By Hyundai

Paul Chaves, Isley Burns, and Adelie Burns will join thousands in the iconic fundraising walk for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute to support all forms of cancer research and care

Rehoboth, Mass.—Six residents from Rehoboth will participate in the Boston Marathon® Jimmy Fund Walk presented by Hyundai on Sunday, October 1.

Paul Chaves, Isley Burns, Adelie Burns, Stephanie Sheu, Matt Burns, and Tim Furtado, along with thousands of other walkers, will participate in the iconic annual event that will unite the community to raise funds to support all forms of adult and pediatric care and cancer research at the nation’s premier cancer center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. The Jimmy Fund Walk has raised more than $167 million for Dana-Farber Cancer in its 34-year history, raising a record-breaking more than $8.8 million in 2022.

“Throughout the past 34 years, the Jimmy Fund Walk has continuously supported life-saving research and cancer care at Dana-Farber. The 2023 Walk will be held during the Jimmy Fund’s 75th anniversary year and will aim to raise $9 million in the effort to prevent, treat, and defy cancer,” said Zack Blackburn, Director of the Jimmy Fund Walk. “This year also marks the 35th annual Jimmy Fund Walk. We are eager to get out on the course and see all our outstanding walkers and teams come together to support this great cause.”

The Jimmy Fund Walk is the only organized walk permitted on the famed Boston Marathon® course, and participants have the flexibility to choose from four distance options: 5K walk (from DanaFarber Cancer Institute’s Longwood Medical Campus), 10K walk (from Newton), Half Marathon walk (from Wellesley), and Marathon walk (from Hopkinton).

Whatever route walkers choose, participants will be treated to 10 refueling stations as well as poster-sized photographs of patients – Jimmy Fund Walk Heroes – displayed at each mile and half-mile marker as inspiration. All four routes of the Jimmy Fund Walk will culminate at the Jimmy Fund Walk Finish Line Powered by Schneider Electric. Due to construction in Copley Square, the Jimmy Fund Walk Finish Line location has been moved to the Fenway neighborhood for 2023. Walkers should know that distances may be slightly shorter as we finish the walk in front of Fenway Park.

The finish line will include a celebration complete with food, music, and a speaking program.

If walkers wish to participate a bit closer to home, the Jimmy Fund Walk has flexible opportunities. Participants can also join the event virtually by “walking their way” from wherever they are most comfortable—in their neighborhood, on a favorite hiking trail, or on a treadmill at home. Materials to support Virtual Walkers are available.

To register to walk or volunteer (#JimmyFundWalk) or to support a walker, visit www.JimmyFundWalk.org or call (866) 531-9255. Registrants can enter the promo code NEWS for $5 off the registration fee. All registered walkers will receive a bib, medal, and a Jimmy Fund Walk T-shirt.

About the Jimmy Fund

The Jimmy Fund, celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2023, is comprised of community-based fundraising events and other programs that, solely and directly, benefit Dana-Farber Cancer Institute’s lifesaving mission to provide compassionate patient care and groundbreaking cancer research for children and adults. The Jimmy Fund is an official charity of the Boston Red Sox, the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association, the Pan-Mass Challenge, and the Variety Children’s Charity of New England. Since 1948, the generosity of millions of people has helped the Jimmy Fund save countless lives and reduce the burden of cancer for patients and families worldwide. Follow the Jimmy Fund on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram: @TheJimmyFund.

Curry College Spring 2023 Dean’s List

Curry College congratulates roughly 900 students who were named to the Spring 2023 Dean’s List: Ean McGonigle of Rehoboth & Nicole Moreira of Rehoboth.

Sarah Charbonneau of Rehoboth Achieves Dean’s List Honors for Spring 2023

Sarah Charbonneau achieved Dean’s List Honors for Spring 2023 at UMASS Amherst College of Engineering. This recognition highlights Sarah as one of the top undergraduate scholars at UMass Amherst, achieving a semester grade point average of 3.50 or better while completing a minimum of 12 credit hours of coursework.

Anna Murphy of Seekonk Enrolls at James Madison University

Seekonk, MA resident, Anna Murphy, has enrolled at James Madison University for the fall 2023 semester. Murphy has selected Kinesiology - BS as a major.

Local Students Enroll at The College of the Holy Cross

The College of the Holy Cross is proud to announce the members of the Class of 2027.

The following local students enrolled in Holy Cross’ Class of 2027:Georgia Young of Seekonk & Isabella Rosa of Seekonk.

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

Be Red Cross Ready Training

Tuesday, Sept 12, 2023 at 1:00pm

This national, standardized, preparedness education curriculum for adults and older youth is taught by certified presenters. 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. Preregistration is required by calling our office at 508-336-8772.

The Renaissance— Presentation

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. Preregistration is required by calling our office at 508-336-8772.

Hearing Clinic

Mon, Sept 18, 1:30pm - 3:00pm

Chris Brissette from Mass Audiology will be here for the Hearing Clinic from 1:30pm3:00pm. Preregistration is required by calling our office at 508-336-8772.

Healthy Aging - Lunch & 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. Preregistration for all activities is required by calling our office at 508-336-8772.

Medicare Open Enrollment

It’s that time of year again! If you are enrolled in a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan or a Medicare Advantage Plan (HMO/ PPO), expect an information packet from your plan by the end of September. It is important to understand and save this information: it explains the changes in your plan for 2024. Premiums, deductibles, co-pays, and the drugs covered by your plan can change significantly! During Medicare Open Enrollment, you can adjust your plan for next year. Independent Medicare Insurance Counselors help you understand your plan changes as well as other options you may have. Open Enrollment runs from October 15 through December 7!

*Please note all clients will be required to fill out a Medicare prescreening form to help us better serve you by looking up your current plan and comparing it to the future plans, if changes are necessary.

Beginner Sign Language

Wednesdays - 10am - 12pm

No class on October 4, 2023, November 1, 2023 and December 6, 2023

A new 10-week session of sign language begins Wednesday, September 20, 2023.

If you are interested in this beginner class, please call Seekonk Human Services at 508336-8772 to register.

Let’s Learn Together!

September 26, 2023 @ 2:00pm

**This session is for novice users of Windows Laptops & Google Chromebooks ONLY. No other devices will be covered.** Do you feel like you can barely turn on your Windows laptop or Google Chromebook 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 Windows laptop or Google Chromebook. 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 has taken 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 shutins 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.

Podiatry Clinic

Wed, Sept 6, 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, Sept 20. 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, Sept 20, 2023 @ 11:30am at Toti’s 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.

Cathedral in the Pines

Friday, October 6, 2023

Price: $110.00 Per Person

Location: New Hampshire

Full payment upon signing up

This morning we are off to Cathedral in the Pines for a guided tour. Enjoy the breathtaking views of Mount Monadnock. After our tour, we are off to Woodbound Inn for lunch. This Inn is full of New England Charm. Don’t forget to save room for cheese. We will be stopping at Smith’s Country Cheese in Winchendon, MA. Our last stop of the day, will be at Red Apple Farm in Phillipston. Shop in their bakery, farm stand or country store. You will receive a famous Apple Dumplings to take home. Truly a day for all of your senses! Your motorcoach will depart: 7:45am from 540 Arcade Avenue, Seekonk. Approximate return at 6:00pm Trip includes: guided tour, lunch, shopping, and transportation.

Contact: Seekonk Human Services

508-336-8772

Future Activities—More information to come

Dennis Pimenta - Magician

Wed, October 18, 2023 at 1:00pm

Dennis Thomas is a full-time, professional NJ magician. For the past 25+ years. His show features magic, comedy, illusions, live animals and audience participation. One of the most talented magicians in NJ, Dennis has performed in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York areas. That’s not to mention the many Birthday Party shows he’s performed at various homes and restaurants. All of Dennis’ shows are totally self-contained. From props to tables to music to curtains, he brings everything he’ll need to deliver the coolest magic show in Massachusetts even laughs are included.

Creative Wellness - A Collage Workshop

Mon, Oct 23, 2023 at 1:00pm

Sit back and enjoy hearing a variety of tips and techniques around the benefits of creativity for emotional wellness, as we kick off this engaging presentation. Nexthands-on exploration of image and word collaging to relax and recharge. Each attendee will create their own scrapbook style board as Maria shares well-being insight and levity. This program is targeted to the adult community who are interested in nurturing their wellbeing, enjoy discovery in creative outlets, as well as meeting up and connecting with others. *This program is generously provided by a grant by the Seekonk Cultural Council.

Davis Bates - Halloween Harvest

Wed, Oct 25, 2023 at 11:30am

Davis has had a wonderful time-sharing performance at well over 160 senior centers in Massachusetts over the last 43 years, with many repeat visits. It is joy for Davis to get folks singing together, and to share stories that trigger memories and connections to the past and the present. Songs are often accompanied by spoons, limberjack, rainstick, cabasa and guiro, a traditional indigenous instrument from Puerto Rico.

Veterans’ Day Celebration

Wed, Nov 8, 2022 @ 11:30am

The annual Veterans Day luncheon will take place on Wednesday, November 8th at 11:30am. The Veterans Services Officer is awaiting confirmation for musical entertainment. Once a confirmation is received, that information will be put out through multiple channels. There will be a FREE lunch for all the Veterans. Lunch will be: pasta and meatballs with dessert.

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

Bristol Elder Services provides nutritional meals for lunch on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays to go. Meals come completely cooked and prepackaged. Meals need to be ordered the day before by 9:30am. Suggested donation of $2.25 per meal which will be collected at the time of pickup. Pick up will be between 11am12pm. September’s menu is available on our Facebook Page and by calling our office at 508-336-8772.

Veteran’s Corner Chapter 115 Benefits for Veterans

The Massachusetts General Law (MGL) Chapter 115 is a needsbased program available for Veterans and dependents who require financial assistance for any of the following resources:

• Medical (reimbursements for co-pays, insurance premiums, prescriptions)

• Housing/Shelter

• Home heating fuel

• Ordinary Benefits (monthly stipend for low-income Veterans)

To be eligible for Chapter 115, single applicant’s monthly income cannot exceed $2,430 and married veteran’s monthly income cannot exceed $3,287. Liquid assets for eligibility must be less than $8,400 for single applicants and $16,600 for married couples.

To be considered a Veteran in Massachusetts, you must have served in the military for:

• at least 180 days of active duty, or

• at least 90 days with at least one day in war time, or

• has a service-connected disability after at least one day of active service in war time, or

• was awarded the Purple Heart, or

• died in service

To be considered a dependent:

• a Veteran’s spouse or widow/widower, or

• a child under 18 years old, or between 19 and 23 if attending high school/college, or older than 19, but considered totally disabled before turning 19, or

• a Veteran’s parent

If you or someone you know might be eligible for this program, make an appointment with me to determine eligibility.

James LaFlame Seekonk Veterans Services Officer Office

508-336-2940

Email: jlaflame@seekonk-ma.gov

The center is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 8:30am - 4:30pm, Wednesday 8:30am - 5:30pm and Friday 8:30am12:00pm. Come and enjoy the activities and companionship at your center. * NOTE: *Seekonk Human Services is primarily an informational and referral agency. We try to help you directly or by introducing you to a network of federal, state, or local support services. Seekonk Human Services offers legal, financial, recreational, medical screenings, and other activities/services by volunteers or nominally paid practitioners. Participation in these services/activities is with the understanding that Seekonk Human Services, Town of Seekonk, or its employees do not assume any legal or other responsibility for advice of services rendered by such volunteers or nominal cost practitioners.

Seekonk Senior Center Ice Cream Social

Thank you to Prosper Life Care and Lisa Lebreux for a successful Ice Cream Social and raffle. The event was sponsored by the Seekonk Human Services Senior Center.

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

Rehoboth Senior Citizens Club News

Dates of Upcoming Events

September 21, 2023

RSCC Meeting

(It’s the third Thursday) at noon in the Arcade Building behind the Main Parking Area. Lunch provided. We will be having a “Pound Auction”. Please bring something that weighs about one pound in a PAPER BAG to be auctioned after the meeting.

October 14 Annual Fall Bazaar

At Francis Farm 9 A.M. – 3 P.M.

We need your help with raffle donations! Please see Donna or Jane if you have a donation for the Bazaar. Raffles – Lunch –Home Made Crafts - Treasure Table – Baked Goods.

Call Jane William 508-252-5440 to reserve a vendor table.

October 19 (Third Thursday)

RSCC Meeting

At noon in the Arcade Building behind the Main Parking Area. Bring your bag lunch and drink

November 16 (Third Thursday)

RSCC Meeting

At noon in the Arcade Building behind the Main Parking Area. More information to come

***December 20

(This Is a Wednesday)***

RSCC Annual Christmas Party

Davenports, Noon to 3 P.M.

Order off the menu. This was such a successful event last year that you need to make your reservations as early as possible!

DECEMBER La Salette

Christmas Lights Trip

Date to be determined by the weather

Our Kitchen is back !!!

We welcome Chef Chico Charbonneau! Chico will be cooking Breakfast on Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays

Lunch on Mondays & Wednesdays

Come join us

Book Club

First Tuesday of Month 10:00- 11:00

Desire Palmer will run the Book Club. Caleb’s Crossing will be our first book

Dancer-cise NEW class

Tuesdays @ 9:00

Taught by Gail Romanovich

Fall Festival

Tues Oct 17 2023 3:00 to 6:00 pm

In collaboration with the Taunton & Dighton Council on Aging. Held at Rehoboth Senior Center. Tickets $15.00. See Linna or Bridget for tickets

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/ Resin 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

Your donations are greatly appreciated

Monday

8:30-10 BREAKFAST (NEW)

9-11 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 Dancer-cise (NEW) $3.00

10:00 -Noon Jewelry/ Resin Making Class $5.00

10:00 Combined Yoga ~ Chair or Mat

10:00 Cornhole Toss

10:00 Ladies Sewing & Quilting

1:00 Hi-Lo Jack

1:00- 3:00 Crafty Fun Classes $5.00

Wednesdays

9:00 Walking Club

8:30-10 BREAKFAST (NEW)

10:00 Cornhole Toss

10:00 Bocce

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 and enjoy the company of others

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)

9:00 Walking Club

10:00 Bocce

10:00 Cornhole Toss

10:00 Jenga

Rehoboth Public Health Nurse

Geraldine Hamel, RN MSN

Available Monday through Thursday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. 508-252-6502 ext. 3127 or 508-252-5947

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

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

Wellness Clinic - Wednesday

Podiatry Clinic - Last Thursdays 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 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.

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.

Helping Take Care of Mom

Dear Dave,

My mother-in-law is 85, and she’s had some health setbacks recently. The family got together with her, and as a group, we decided it was time to sell her property and move her into an apartment at a nice senior living facility. She should see a little over $300,000 from the sale of her house. Aside from that, she has about $10,000 in a savings account. The problem is, she’ll only receive $2,100 a month in Social Security, and rent at the facility is $2,600 per month. Plus she loves making donations to charities. With interest rates where they are, is a CD ladder a good place to put the money to help her cash flow expenses in the future?

— Ed

Dear Ed,

If this were my mother-in-law, I’d want her to do better than a CD (certificate of deposit) ladder. Even with the deficit between her Social Security income and the cost of rent, she’ll only need to see $6,000 a year from the investment to make up the difference. And plus, she’s 85. Even if she got nothing in terms of interest, the chances of her burning all the way through her nest egg before she dies are almost zero. I know the thought of her passing away isn’t pleasant, but it’s something you have to take into consideration.

As far as the charities go? Right now, she’s the charity. Maybe not in the traditional sense of the word, but it’s time for mom to come first. Only the strong can help the weak. I didn’t let my toddlers carry our newborn. And when it comes to money, you’ve got to have the financial strength—the free and clear assets—to carry others. Take care of your own household first. That’s her responsibility at this point.

Ed, you’re not going to mess this up unless you put the money in crypto, or something stupid like that. If you want to do some highyield savings as a part of it, that’s fine. If it were me, I’d probably end up investing some of it too. Here’s the thing: Overall, if you could make 8% on it, that’s $2,000 a month, and it lasts indefinitely. That’s not even touching the principal. But like I said before, even if you make nothing on it, just divide $6,000 into $300,000. See what I mean? It’s probably going to last as long as she does.

Of course, there may be some other medical bills, and you’d probably want her to have a life other than just paying bills. That’s why I’d like to see that extra $2,000 a month happening. It would provide a little cushion. And there may be a few other little things from time to time the family would have to pick up, but that’s not unusual in a situation like this.

You all can make this work for her. Don’t be super aggressive, but don’t be super conservative either.

— Dave

*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.

A Degree Isn’t Power, Knowledge Is Power

Dear Dave,

I’ve heard you talk about paying for college for your kids. Why is this a requirement? I’m not trying to shirk my responsibility, but I worked my way through college and so did my parents. My wife and I have talked about paying for their books and maybe rent. Am I missing something here?

— Thomas

Dear Thomas,

First, I don’t believe it’s a requirement that all parents pay for college for their kids. It’s not a moral issue, and you’re not an immoral person if you don’t or can’t do it. I’ve told plenty of single moms, single dads and parents who don’t earn a big income that their kids need to apply for as many scholarships as possible, learn how to work, and choose an inexpensive school if they want to continue their education.

As a parent, one of your biggest jobs is to give your kids a moral compass and the tools they’ll need to succeed in the real world. And one of the keys to being a successful adult is engaging in a lifetime of learning. If the last time you read a book was when you were in high school or college, and you’ve never done training of any other kind since, you’re probably not very successful. Never. Stop. Learning. If I’d stopped learning after getting my bachelor’s degree, do you think I would’ve been able to build Ramsey Solutions? Absolutely not!

Do you see where I’m going with this, Thomas? As an adult, learning is your job. An entire lifetime of learning is your job. And if you can encourage that in your kids with some level of help, financial or otherwise, then it’s your obligation to help them. You can’t expect a 17-year-old to figure it all out. They don’t have the tools yet.

The point is this: You don’t have a moral responsibility to pay for your kids’ college education. You do, however, have a moral responsibility to highlight the importance of knowledge, share what you have, and show them how to get more. If you can’t afford to help with money, do everything else you can. There are plenty of more important things than cash. If you want to help financially, that’s fine too.

Just don’t use debt to make it happen!

— Dave

We Want Your Pictures

Did YOU or YOUR CHILDREN attend a day at the Hornbine School for a CLASS TRIP? Children have been visiting the school for 55 years! WE WANT YOUR PICTURES! We will have a scanner available at the School on Saturday October 7th and Sunday November 5th to copy any pictures you would like to share. We would also like to receive pictures of any schools in town that have closed such as North Rehoboth School, Anawan School, Pleasant Street School and/or any of the closed one-room schools.

We often have people tell us that their older relatives attended the Hornbine School. Sometimes, we find a record of their relative and sometimes not. Recently, we had a visitor who said his mother attended the school. She lived near the corner of Peck Street and Frances Street. That was a long distance from the Hornbine School. The Wheeler School was located close to the corner of New Street and Fairview Ave. which was closer to where she lived. So, we looked at the Wheeler School information. Although we didn’t find a picture of his mother, we did find a picture of his aunt from the early 1920s.

This is how we believe these mistakes happen. During the 60s and 70s, many people who attended the Rehoboth one room schools were all attracted to the Hornbine School meetings and events. Because of this involvement, they would talk about the Hornbine School at home. The younger relatives would believe that their older relatives attended the Hornbine School because of these conversations.

Puppies

his

Our OPEN HOUSES this month will be on the 2nd and 4th Sundays, September 10th & 24th from 2 - 4 P.M. We are located at 144 Hornbine Road in

MA.

Rehoboth,

Above: Visitor photographing a picture from the 1920s of

aunt

Vistor’s Aunt at Wheeler School in the early 1920s

2023 Author Talk – Edward Achorn

The Rehoboth Antiquarian Society is thrilled to welcome back author Edward Achorn to speak about his latest book, The Lincoln Miracle: Inside the Republican Convention That Changed History. Join us at the Carpenter Museum on Thursday, September 14th at 6:30 PM to talk about The Lincoln Miracle, which has received widespread praise in the U.S. and Britain. Edward Achorn is the author of four critically acclaimed books about American history. His previous book, Every Drop of Blood: The Momentous Second Inauguration of Abraham Lincoln, was named one of the Best Books of 2020 by the Economist magazine and was an Amazon Editors’ choice for Best History. He is also the author of the classic baseball history books The Summer of Beer and Whiskey and Fifty-nine in ’84. You can reach him at his website, edachorn.com.

A journalist for 41 years, he is the former Vice President and Editorial Pages Editor of The Providence Journal. He is a Pulitzer Prize finalist for Commentary and won the Yankee Quill Award for distinguished lifetime service to journalism. He lives in an 1820s farmhouse in Rehoboth, Mass.

This talk is free, but registration is required. To sign up for this event or to become a member, call the Carpenter Museum at (508)252-3031 or visit our Museum Events page rehobothantiquarian.org/museum-events/.

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.

Edward Achorn

Crafters’ Marketplace: 2023 Craft Show to Benefit the Carpenter Museum

10/14/23 9AM-4PM

The Carpenter Museum invites you to our 44th annual Crafters’ Marketplace, Saturday October 14, 9AM-4PM.

The show will, once again, be held in the historic Rehoboth Village in three separate but walkable buildings, the Carpenter Museum, the Rehoboth Congregational Church Hall, and nearby Goff Hall at Blanding Public Library.

This prestigious show has grown in its 44 years from 2 tables of local crafters to dozens of vendors selling their wares to raise money to support Museum projects and programming. This show is committed to bringing quality handmade items from skilled crafters to their shoppers. Additionally, this year there will be a bake sale and a food truck. The Marketplace is free to enter, free to park, and makes the perfect autumn outing. All proceeds go to the Carpenter Museum, a non-for-profit history and research center.

About the Carpenter Museum:

The Carpenter Museum 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.

Events at the Seekonk American Legion Post 311 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. Donation of $25.00. Advanced tickets available at the Post. For additional information and tickets please call 508-336-9822.

Paint Party to benefit “Service Dogs for Veterans” – Sept 17th

A Paint Party will be held on Sunday, September. We will be painting a Fall Theme 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 401-451-1944. 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/. 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.

Annual Fall Meat Raffles for 5 Saturdays starting 10/14

Meat Raffles will be held on the following Saturdays; 10/14, 10/21, 10/28, 11/4 and 11/11 starting at 2 pm. There are 3 tables of steaks, chicken, pork, seafood, TV and other prizes. 50/50 raffles. Kitchen opens at 1 pm.

Annual Turkey Raffle – November 17th

Annual Turkey Raffle on Friday, November 78th. Raffle starts at 7:00 pm for 30 turkey baskets that include vegetables and all the fixings. Turkey Baskets raffled every 10 minutes.

Music at the American Legion

Friday Night Bands – starts at 8 pm

Rock A Blues - 9/8

After Dark - 9/22

Hall Rental

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

351 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA 02771 508-336-9822

Happy September from the Rehoboth Lions!

We are officially in full swing for the 2023 - 2024 Lion Year!

First on the agenda - Clamboils are back!! Our first will be Wednesday, September 6th. This is a special event, as we are aiding the victims of the horrific fires in Maui - all proceeds from this first event will go directly to our Brothers and Sisters in the Maui Lions - who will aid the victims of this tragic event. We have also set up a fundraising button on our newly designed website: rehobothlions.org. You can simply click on the donate link and be taken to a PayPal Maui fundraising campaign.

We are just a couple of months away from the 34th Annual Rehoboth Lions Golf Tournament, dedicated to the memory of Ray Dyer. This year, the tournament will be held on Sunday, October 15th at the Swansea Country Club. We only have a few sponsorship and foursome spots available so if you are interested, please contact us ASAP. For more information, please visit the Rehoboth Lions website at https://rehobothlions.org/event/rehoboth-lions2023-golf-tournament/, or reach out to either Don Nokes or Scott Lacourse, co-chairs of this year’s event. Visit Don Nokes (401-2553666) - Scott Lacourse (774-203-8653)

If you can’t make it to our September Clamboil, the remaining 2023 dates are 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!

For any information, as well as an “up to date” look at what’s coming next from the Rehoboth Lions, please visit us at https:// rehobothlions.org/.

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

Happy Labor Day, and have a great September.

We hope to see you at one of our events soon!

Rehoboth Garden Club News

The Rehoboth Garden Club will kick off the Fall season with a meeting and get together on Monday September 18, 2023 at the Rehoboth Congregational Church at 6:30 PM. RI Federation of Garden Clubs President Judy Gray will be our special guest. Judy will demonstrate how to create decorative arrangements using vegetables and fruit. Members are encouraged to bring plants from their gardens for a plant swap.

The importance of trees and proper pruning methods will be the topics of our October meeting. Our first guest speaker, Rachel Holbert, from the Newport Tree Conservancy, will talk about the ways trees help reduce and manage the effects of climate change. Our second guest will be Joe Verstandig, who will demonstrate how to correctly prune a dogwood tree. The community is invited to this informative meeting on Monday October 16, 2023 at the Rehoboth Congregational Church at 9:30 AM.

Our rescheduled field trip to the RI Resource Recovery Corporation in Johnston RI will take place on Wednesday October 18, 2023. It will include a private bus tour of this expansive facility, which includes state-of-the-art landfills, a recycling center, composting and educational programs. Members can contact Linda McHugh to reserve their place.

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

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”

• 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

• 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 - 7:008:00 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 - 8:00-11:00 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/

• 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/ continued on next page...

• “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/

• October 8th, 2023 - Sunday - 2:00 - 5:00 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/

• October 13th, 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

• “Special“ OCTOBER 14th, 2023 - Saturday – 5:00 - 7:00 P.M. –American Legions Annual Pig Roast with the master chef John DuVally -– Food – Drinks – PLUS + 5:00-8:00 PM - Dancing - Live Music performed by ?? Entertainment with Classical Rock Music https://www.facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/

• October 14th, 2023 Saturday - 7:00-10:00 P.M. - “3 CAN JAM” from Attleboro - Live Music Entertainment playing Classic & Rock – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Dancing & having a GREAT TIME! https://www.facebook.com/3CANJAM/

• October 20th, 2023 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – Rock-A-Blues Band with Classic Rock Music – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.rockablues.com

• “Special“ October 21st, 2023 – Saturday - 7:00-11:00 P.M. –Annual Halloween Costume / Witches Ball – with $100.00 first prize for best costume & you must register by 8:00 PM with Jake - $10.00 per ticket, Johnny Angle will be playing Music and Karaoke – Food – Cash Bar https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/

• October 27th,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/

• October 27th, 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/

• November 3rd, 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/

• November 4th, 2023 - Saturday - 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/

• November 10th, 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

• “Special” November 11th, 2023 – Saturday - 11:00 - 4:00 P.M. –VETERANS DAY DINNER – Food - serves food to our Veterans - https://www.facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/

• November 11th, 2023 – Saturday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – Pending ???

• November 12th, 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/

• November 17th,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/

• November 17th,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/

Events & Activities

“Live Like Chris, Gallop for Greenlock” Road Race & Fall Fair October 1st

Join us for “Live Like Chris, Gallop for Greenlock” October 1st. This year, the road race, will honor Chirs Titcomb and benefit Greenlock Therapeutic Riding Center. Chris loved this event and what Greenlock stands for. Greenlock is a non-profit organization that utilizes equine-related activities for the therapy of individuals with physical, developmental, and emotional differences. Uniquely, the horses are our treatment partners. We offer both hippotherapy (OT, PT, SLP) and therapeutic riding that teaches specific riding skills to physically, mentally, and emotionally-challenged persons from throughout Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts. Your participation in the road race and the family fun day will help Greenlock run and continue to provide services to all people who need them.

See more info and event schedule on next page spread.

Chris Titcomb

New England Clam Boil

Sponsored By Rehoboth Station 2 Firefighters Association

Saturday September 16, 2023 7:00 PM

Seekonk Gun Club, 61 Reed Street, Rehoboth, MA

Tickets - $35.00 EACH - Advance Tickets Only – No Walk-Ins For Tickets Call (508) 226-2914

Psychic Fair

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

Held by American Legion Auxiliary

Card Readers & Mediums - 15 minute readings for $20 each Vendors selling various items

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

Paint Party to benefit “Service Dogs for Veterans”

Sunday, September 17th 1:00PM

A Paint 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 a fall theme 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.

Dighton Historical Society Tea

Sunday, September 24th, 2023 2:00PM to 4PM

The Dighton Historical Society presents the Mill Girls of Lowell Afternoon Tea on Sunday, September 24th, 2023 at Friendship Hall, 2056 Elm Street, Dighton, MA. Tea Time is 2:00 PM to 4 PM. Tickets are $10.00 each (ages 8 and up).

Tickets can be purchased at Araujo’s Farm, 1522 Williams Street, Dighton; Dighton Public Library, 979 Somerset Avenue, Dighton or by contacting us through the Dighton Historical Society Facebook page.

Two mill girls, a century apart, discuss their lives working at the mills of Lowell, MA. They share their stories of living, working and experiencing Lowell. Explore the similarities and the changes that have happened over a century through the eyes of two young workers.

This program is supported by a grant from The Dighton Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council.

The Friends of the Palmer River Annual Meeting

Monday, September 18th at Goff Hall at 6pm

All lovers of the river are welcome to join. No dues, no paperwork. All are welcome.

Wetland Preservation By-law

Discussion group meeting

Monday, September 18th at 7pm

Please bring your ideas, concerns and energy to the table. All are welcome.

PADDLE ON THE PALMER!

Saturday, September 23, 12 - 4pm

Calling all water enthusiasts to join us on the Palmer River for an up-close look at the where the river opens up to the bay. We will be looking for evidence of eagles and other wildlife that are unique to the brackish water environment in Historic Barneyville.

Private dock entry makes easy entrance/ exit from boats. All experience levels are welcome; a certified lifeguard will be present. Parking is limited so to register for this trip, please contact Otter Brown at 508-252-6288 or by email at otterrob@yahoo.com.

“MOONLIT MEMORIES” on the Palmer River

Saturday, October 28, 5-8pm

The Friends of the Palmer River is joining forces with the Rehoboth Antiquarian Society and the Rehoboth Historical Cemetery Commission to bring history to life with a storytime featuring special guests who are buried at Burial Hill Place Cemetery.

Spooky historical Halloween fun under the full moon and some old-fashioned treats for the whole family! Mark your calendars now for this “only in Rehoboth” event you don’t want to miss. Registration will open up in September.

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-thevillage.

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

Missing And Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) Intertribal

Powwow

9/23/23, At Redway Plain Field

Rt 44, Rehoboth, MA.

Gates Open At 10:00 AM And Grand Entry at Noon; Open To the Public. All Are Welcome

• MMIW Educational Information and Resources

• Native American Dancing and Food

• Story Telling

Eastern Blanket Dance and Eastern War Specials

Please Bring a Lawn Chair for Additional Seating

Admission At the Door: $5.00 Adults and Free for Children Under 10 Years Of Age.

General Inquiry and MMIW Dance Inquiries Please Contact Either: Junice Bliss @ Northeastmmiw@Gmail.Com, Patricia Gentle Wind Baptista Booker @ 401- 241-1628 And or Jennifer Rawlings @ 203-444-5844, Vendors, Please Contact: Dr. Kristine Jones @ KDRDAWN@AOL.COM OR 401-338-5174

Sponsored by EIRINC

Veterans Breakfast

Saturday, Oct. 7 8:30 – 11 am

Join us for Connection….Conversation…. Friendship Christ Church Parish Hall in Historic Swansea Village

57 Main Street, Swansea, MA 02777

Free Breakfast for all veterans and a friend or family member.

We adhere to COVID-19 protocols. We meet the first Saturday of every month.

Sponsors: Building Bridges, Vet to Vet, Christ Church

The Piecemakers Quilt Show

Saturday, October 28, 2023 9:00AM-2:00PM

Sponsored by: The Piecemakers Quilt Group

Seekonk Congregational Church

600 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk, MA 02771

Admission: $5.00 per person

Featured Quilter: Brenda Devine

You’re Invited to View Our Quilted Fabric Art...Over 100 Quilts on Display! Challenge Projects, Quilter’s Boutique, Bargain Table, Quilter’s Café with Lunch & Snacks, See our Starry Night Christmas Quilt! Tickets available at the show.

Rehoboth Pet Pantry Opens

Rehoboth Girl Scout Troop 338

The pantry is always open and is a take/leave pet supply pantry. Donations can be placed inside the pantry at anytime.

Selectman and Animal Control Officer Rob Johnson and Girl Scout Noelle Blais at the official opening of the Rehoboth Pet Pantry.

Girl Scout Noelle Blais cut the ribbon to open the Rehoboth Pet Pantry on Aug 12, 2023. The pantry is located outside the Rehoboth Animal shelter at 148 Peck Street.

Kali Paradis, Violet Zalewski, and Aubrey Zalewski of Rehoboth Girl Scout Troop 338 enjoyed their day making kindness rocks to contribute to the Kindness Rock Project at the Blanding Library.

ChUrCh NewS & eveNTS

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.

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

Upcoming Events

• Friday October 6, 2023 5:30 – 9 PM National Faith & Blue Weekend Join the Seekonk Police and Seekonk churches for a free combined annual event. Cookout, Family Friendly Movie, Bounce House, UTV rides, Games, Playground & more. Event location is Faith Christian Center 95 Sagamore Road. Fun for all ages.

• Saturday, October 14, 2023 - 8:30AM – NOON Church Yard Sale Rent a table and sell your treasures! $35 a table. Call the Church Office (508-336-9355) to reserve a table.

• Saturday, October 28, 2023 – 9 AM – 2 PM Quilt Show… The Piecemakers Quilt Show Admission: $5.00. Over 100 quilts on display. Quilter’s Boutique, drawings for baskets, bargain table… Quilter’s Cafe and more. See our Starry Night Christmas Quilt & so many more!

• Saturday, November 4, 2023 - HARVEST DINNER - Buffet serving from 5:00 to 6:30PM. Eat In or Take Out. MENU: Baked Ham, Mashed Potatoes, Butternut Squash, Harvard Beets, Onions, Cole Slaw, Rolls & Butter and Apple Bread Pudding…TICKET PRICES: Adults $15.00 and Children (ages 5-12) $6.00. RESERVATIONS are SUGGESTED. For tickets or an information please contact the Church Office at 508-336-9355 or Donna Euell at donna.euell@ gmail.com or 401-523-5283.

• Saturday, December 2, 2023 – 9 AM – 2 PM CHRISTMAS BAZAAR

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.

High Holy Days Services

Congregation Agudas Achim is offering services for the High Holy Days 9/15-9/25/2023.

Rabbi Tayla Shalem will be leading services for the congregation. She warmly invites visitors to get to know the community. Her goal is to offer services that will provide something meaningful for each attendee - from those who love music, to those looking for spiritual depth, for those who are more humanist or atheist and looking for cultural and communal connections. ALL ARE WELCOME.

She will be joined by Rabbi Ezra Weinberg who will serve as cantor. Dr Janet encarnacion will lead the choir.

Cemetery Service: 1pm Sunday 9/10

Rosh Hashanah Evening: 7pm 9/15

Rosh Hashanah Day 1: 9:30am 9/16

Rosh Hashanah Day 2: 9:30am 9/17

Kol Nidre (Yom Kippur eve) 6:15pm 9/24

Yom Kippur morning: 9:30am 9/25 - Our Yom Kippur morning includes children’s services at 10am (ages 3-8) and 10:30am (ages 8-13). Child care also will be available.

Yom Kippur evening: 5:00pm 9/25

Non members are welcome to attend. Children services and childcare will be offered. Contact the synagogue office at: 508-222-2243 or office@agudasma.org for more information.

We invite you to join the Agudas Achim community to observe Yom Kippur morning. Congregation Agudas Achim in Attleboro is a warm and welcoming community where we participate in an on-going evolution of Judaism, learning from and building on the past, while also helping Judaism evolve when traditional practices conflict with our commitment to democracy, pluralism, and equality.

Services are open to all, and nonmembers are welcome to attend. Contact the synagogue office at 508-222-2243 or by email at office@agudasma.org for more information about ticket availability and a suggested donation.

RCC Cornhole Tournament

RCC Cornhole Tournament on Saturday, October 14th at the Hillside Country Club! The tiki bar opens at 11:00 AM. The tournament will take place from 1-6pm. Check-in begins at 1pm and the bags fly at 2pm.

First prize - $1,000. Second prize - $500 Third prize - $250 There will be a 50/50 raffle and terrific door prizes awarded during the tournament!

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.

Touch a Truck Event

Sunday, Sept 10th 11 am-2 pm

Community Covenant Church is hosting a Touch a Truck event for the entire community on Sunday, Sept 10th from 11 am-2 pm, 615 Tremont Street, Rehoboth, MA

There will also be corn-hole, an ice cream truck, and alpacas...something for the whole family. Come and visit!

Memorial Baptist Church to Hold Concert

Memorial Baptist Church is happy to once again welcome Brad White from Memphis, Tennessee!!!! Brad will be performing in concert on September 30, 2023, at 6:00 PM in the sanctuary of the church. Brad’s concert is alive, exciting and reaches across generations. Everyone is WELCOME to come and enjoy the humor, heart and hymns of multi- talented Brad as he sings, plays the piano and saxophone. Also, we are hoping that we may have a “Very Special Guest” perform with Brad. Brad has had two Grammy nominations,

performed in all 50 states, all 10 Canadian Provinces and well over 60 countries. A free will offering will be taken to help support Brad’s worldwide ministry. Please come, bring some friends and enjoy a memorable evening of music and fellowship.

Memorial Baptist Church, 340 Central Avenue, Seekonk, MA 02771

For more information, please call the church office at (508) 7615142 or call Ann DeAmaral at (508) 336-7023.

Annual “Holiday Fair” 2023

Friday &

Saturday, November 10 &11

Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Church

Coyle Drive (Off Rte 152), Seekonk, MA 02771

Open 10 am - 4 pm on both days in the church basement. “Super Raffles” include Cash Prizes, HDTV, and Amazon Gift Card. Also, our famous “Baskets Galore”, Kim’s Special Raffles, Scratch Tickets, Gift Cards, and more. Items for sale will be Jewelry, Christmas Decor, Toys, Hand Knits, Baked Goods, Almost New Items, and more. Our “Cafe” will be open for food and drinks on both days.

Please join us and enjoy fun for all ages!

Disabled accessible

Newman Congregational Church

2023 Children, Youth, & Families Open House

Newman Congregational Church, UCC is kicking off its program year on Sunday, September 10th with an open house to highlight our ministries for children, youth, and families. During Worship at 10am, we will gather kids and families for a backpack blessing. Following the blessing, kids in grades Kindergarten - 5th grades are welcome to Church School. In addition, infants and toddlers are welcome to join our professional staff and volunteers in the nursery. After worship, all are welcome to join us in the education wing to meet our Minister for Faith Formation, Nursery Staff, and volunteers. You can also learn more about our upcoming programs for youth and families which includes but are not limited to: Family Nights at Newman, High School Youth Group, and Confirmation.

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.

1st Annual Missions’ Art Sale

Rumford, RI – Saturday, September 23, 2023, between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM Newman Congregational Church, UCC will host their 1st Annual Missions’ Art Sale. All proceeds are donated to various charities.

Throughout the hall, you will find paintings, posters, and various forms of wall art, perfect for your Christmas giving! There will be refreshments available for sale while you shop. Bring your friends and enjoy the festivities!

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.

Virtual Career Coaching for Job Seekers Age 50+

Wednesdays, August – December 2023

If you are age 50+ and unemployed, underemployed, seeking a new career, or looking for your “Encore Career,” this free career coaching and networking program is for you! This program is presented online using Zoom. You can attend one or more sessions,

choosing from either morning or evening bi-weekly meeting times. The September and October topics are: Artificial Intelligence, Applications & Cover Letters; Create a LinkedIn Profile & Personal Branding; Resumes: The Basics; Resumes: Beyond the basics

The facilitator for this series is certified career coach Deborah Hope. Go to the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org for registration information.

Cooperative Mandala Workshop: An Eco-Wellness Event

Wednesday, Sept 13th

The beauty found in nature can teach us about our connection to the natural world and to each other. Join us to learn more in the program The Beauty of Connection: Cooperative Mandala Workshop on Wednesday, September 13 at 6 PM at Seekonk Library. This experience includes an introduction to nature mandalas and the opportunity to help create one large, cooperative mandala with other curious, like-minded people. Experience the power of beauty and connection! Please note the mandala is ephemeral and will not be taken home. Photographs are encouraged. Register in the library Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events or by calling Adult Services at 508-336-8230 extension 56130.

Free Solar Eclipse Glasses and Countdown Events at Seekonk Library

Begins September 14

This October 14th people all over the world will be looking up to the skies for the annular solar eclipse and we want to get you ready! Join us at Seekonk Public Library for our Solar Eclipse Countdown. This series will include a variety of programs and events leading up to the solar eclipse. Check our Events Calendar online to register for special storytimes, movies and more for all things from solar science to science fiction. Most importantly remember that the only way to safely view the solar eclipse is with specialty viewing glasses which we will be offering FREE, quantity is limited. Register in the calendar beginning September 14 at seekonkpl.org/events.

Virtual Meet the Author: Piper Huguley for By Her Own Design

Wednesday, September 20

If you enjoy historical fiction and mysteries or enjoy hearing the inside story on the creation of a good book, you’ll enjoy this new Meet the Author: Virtual Q&A Series offered by Seekonk Library in collaboration with area libraries. This program is presented online using Zoom.

This historical fiction title tells the story of the Black fashion designer of Jackie Kennedy’s wedding dress. By Her Own Design was a Booklist “Top 100 Editor’s Choice” selection. Go to the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org for registration information. Share with fellow readers and register now for these upcoming sessions:

• Tue 10/10 - Denny S. Bryce for The Other PRINCESS

• Thu 10/12 – Andrea Penrose for Murder at the Merton Library

• Tue 11/7 – Lee Goldberg for Calico

• Wed 11/15 – Virgina Pye for The Literary Undoing of Victoria Swann

Book clubs are welcome!

Solar Eclipse Countdown Movie Night

Thursday, September 21 at 5:30 PM

Join us at Seekonk Public Library to watch this movie featuring space travel as we continue the Solar Eclipse Countdown:

In this psychological science fiction film, an astronaut, played by Brad Pitt, ventures into space to find his long-lost, alien hunter father and discovers a secret that could destroy all of earth. Also stars Tommy Lee Jones, Ruth Negga, Donald Sutherland, and Liv Tyler. Rated PG-13. Running time: 2 hours and 3 minutes.

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

A Short History of UFO’s September 25 at 6 PM

Have you ever gazed up at the stars and wondered if we are really alone here in the universe? Join Seekonk Library via Zoom on Monday, September 25 at 6:00 PM for a virtual presentation covering a short history of UFOs. You’ll hear everything from early historical sightings to big events, conspiracy theories like Roswell and Area 51, and phenomena spotted right in our own New England backyards. Feel free to bring your curiosity, questions, and an open mind! This program is brought to Seekonk Library by the podcast “Ain’t it Scary? with Sean & Carrie.” He’s skeptical. She’s spooky. Together they explore the unknown, unsolved, unbelievable, and just plain weird. This free program will be held in Zoom; register in the online Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events to receive the login information to attend.

Nonfiction Book Club: Finding Me: A Memoir by Viola Davis

September 26th at 6 PM

Join us for a lively discussion of Finding Me: A Memoir by Viola Davis on Tuesday, September 26th 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!

“In my book, you will meet a little girl named Viola who ran from her past until she made a life-changing decision to stop running forever. This is my story, from a crumbling apartment in Central

Falls, Rhode Island, to the stage in New York City, and beyond. This is the path I took to finding my purpose but also my voice in a world that didn’t always see me. As I wrote Finding Me, my eyes were open to the truth of how our stories are often not given close examination. We are forced to reinvent them to fit into a crazy, competitive, judgmental world. So I wrote this for anyone running through life untethered, desperate and clawing their way through murky memories, trying to get to some form of self-love. For anyone who needs reminding that a life worth living can only be born from radical honesty and the courage to shed facades and be...you. Finding Me is a deep reflection, a promise, and a love letter of sorts to self. My hope is that my story will inspire you to light up your own life with creative expression and rediscover who you were before the world put a label on you.”

Free Adults Video Game Night: Retro Classics to Virtual Reality

September 27 from 5 – 7 PM

Adults, our generation has been a part of video game culture from its beginnings; let’s take back the controllers and enjoy a night of video games just for us – no quarters necessary! Stop in for a couple of minutes or a couple of hours. Space is limited, registration is required. Register in the calendar at seekonkpl.org/events. This program is FREE and open to the public.

Whether you’re a fan of old school games or strictly the cutting edge, there’s something for everyone at our Adults Video Game Night. One Up Games will provide multiple gaming stations and virtual reality glasses for game play; bring your beginner’s willingness to play or your advanced finely honed skills and enjoy! Try out virtual reality glasses before you put it on your shopping list. Come enjoy this child-free night for yourself and celebrate, whether it’s for the end of summer reading, getting kids back to school, or for the love of gaming itself! For age 18+. Please share.

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.

For information, visit www.seekonkpl.org, email library@seekonkpl.org or call 508-336-8230.

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

Updates to Seekonk Library’s Teen Webpage: What You Need to Know

The Teen Page of the Seekonk Public Library website has had a refresh! Go to seekoknpl. org/teens for registration links to upcoming programs, photos from our Teen Instagram Page, and other useful lists and information.

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The Book Bonanza is still going on, so click that link to earn up to five free books by correctly answering the clues! You can also sign up for the teen email newsletter, download a volunteer or Teen Advisory Board application, and find reading suggestions and other resources on the right side of the page.

Keep an eye out for more updates and interactive content. The Seekonk Library Teen Page is growing, and we want to hear from you!

Massachusetts Teen Choice Book Award Voting ends Sept 22

Attention Massachusetts teens! We want YOUR vote to decide our state’s best YA novel for 2023! How it works: Teens read one or more of our 21 nominees, then vote for their favorite books between September 1 and September 22. The list of nominees and voting form can be found online at mateenchoicebook.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! They’ll bring a variety of nextgen 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. Space is limited, so register early!

Teen Advisory Board

Thursday, September 7 at 4:00 PM

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

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We Accept All Major Credit Cards

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.

Magic: The Gathering - Learn to Play

Tuesday, November 7 at 2:00 PM

Coming up in November, One Up Games will return with a Magic: The Gathering - Learn to Play workshop for tweens and teens. Players will be taught how to play the MTG Trading Card Game by One Up’s professional staff, participate in games and take home their very own Starter Deck! From the official game website: “Magic is a collectible trading card game of fun-filled, strategic games to play with friends old and new. Welcoming worldbuilders, narrative lovers, and gameplay enthusiasts alike, Magic has something for everyone and countless ways to play. Whether you’re sitting at the kitchen table, playing online, or battling in a high-stakes competition, there’s a place for you in the world of Magic: The Gathering.” This 3-hour event is free and open to tweens and teens in grades 6 through 12. Space is limited, so register early!

From the Children’s Room

Make Your Own Worry Pet

Tuesday, September 12, 4:30 PM

We’ll use simple hand-sewing techniques to create our own worry pets! Lots of kids struggle with worry and anxiety, especially around the start of a new school year. These worry pets are small enough to fit in a pocket, and they can provide a comforting sensory experience to settle little worried hands and minds. They’re not just for worriers though! Kids in grades 3-5 are welcome to register!

Get To Know Spike Prime Robot

Thursday, September 14, 6:30 PM

Is your child interested in learning more about LEGO Robotics? If yes, this is an opportunity for you to reserve 60 minutes with a mentor to get them started in LEGO SPIKE Robotics and coding. This program is: an introduction to the LEGO SPIKE Prime robotics system to see if it’s something you or your child want to learn more about, a chance to see if your child wants to join the 4 week introductory class that starts on Monday, October 16 and a time to ask questions if you’re thinking about joining a First Lego League team. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required. Space is limited. If the program is full, please register for the waitlist at seekonkpl.org and you will be notified if other introductory nights are added.

Tools for Tiny Hands

Tuesday, September 19 at 10 AM

Tools for Tiny Hands: Peel, Rip, Stick is a kit for children ages 2 to 5 and their adults. It’s filled with materials and ideas that will help children further develop and practice their fine motor skills, which are “skills that children need for everyday life and for success in school.” Designed in an atmosphere of play, children will stop at different stations throughout the room to experiment with hands-on activities involving stickers and tape. Families may arrive anytime after 10 AM. Children will be able to stay with an activity for as long as they wish with no pressure to move on to other activities until they want to. The program concludes at 11:30 AM.

Paws To Read

Wednesday, Sept 20, 27 at 3 PM

Build reading skills and gain confidence in reading aloud by coming to the Library to “Paws To Read”. Register to reserve a 15-minute time slot to have your child read to Gizmo and Pepe, two adorable chihuahua/ pomeranian mix therapy dogs. Each one-onone private session is facilitated by Sandra Healey and her two dogs. Space is limited. Children should bring a book they can read or come a few minutes before to select one in the children’s room.

Early Release Day Movie

Tuesday, September 26

It’s a Seekonk Schools early release day! Join us at the library for a movie on the big screen! We’ll be playing a new Super Mario Bros. Movie! Bring your snacks, your pillows and blankets, and even a friend or two! No registration is required. Drop in. Rated PG. Run time 1 hour 32 minutes

Minecraft

Tuesday, October 3, 10, 6:30 PM

Join Ms Sandie on a Minecraft Space adventure! In celebration and anticipation of the upcoming solar eclipse, we’re visiting space! Virtually that is! We’ll build in a space-themed world each week in Minecraft Education Edition. Kids will need their own devices to download and install Minecraft Education (laptops/ipads/desktops) a Switch or other gaming device will not work for this program. No Minecraft experience is required. All information such as download links, Zoom link, and user names will be sent out prior to the event. This is a 2-week session. Registration required.

STORYTIMES

Seekonk Library storytimes focus on talking, singing, reading, writing and playing- important principles for your child’s reading readiness.

Baby & Toddler Storytime

Monday, Sept 11, 18, 25, October 2, 16, 30, 10 AM

Join Miss Sharon for a weekly storytime designed for children birth - 36 months old. The storytime will include a book or two followed by music, fingerplays, movement and yes, even bubbles! Held indoors in the Library’s Meeting Room. Siblings always welcome. No registration required. Please bring your SAILS Library card so your child may take storytime books home.

Preschool Storytime

Wednesdays, Sept 13, 20, 27, Oct 4, 11, 18 at 9:30 AM

Miss Sandie will read 2 - 3 stories and children will complete a related activity. Siblings welcome. Registration is not required, but please bring your SAILS library card to check out books to take home.

Fire Safety Storytime

Tuesday, October 3

Families with children ages 3 and up are invited to Fire Safety Storytime. Miss Sharon will read one book and Lt. Kyle Leprade from the Seekonk Fire Department will join us for a second story. After that, we’ll go out into the parking lot to see (and climb up into!) a fire engine! The program includes fire safety information, activity sheets and some give-aways, too!

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News and Notes from Blanding Library

By Leslie Patterson

BOOK SALE OCT.

6-8

Fri. Oct. 6, Friends preview sale, 5-7 pm

Sat. Oct. 7, General Sale, 10-3

Sun. Oct. 8, Close-out sale, noon to 3

It’s almost time for the library’s annual used book sale, sponsored by the Friends of the Blanding Library. The sale will begin on Friday Oct. 6 from 5 to 7 for members of the Friends. New members may join at that time.

The sale is open to the general public on Saturday Oct. 7 from 10 to 3. This year there will also be a close-out sale on Sunday Oct. 8 from noon to 3. And it’s not just books. The sale will include audio books, puzzles, CDs and DVDs.

Also new this year is a raffle, with many great prizes on offer. Many thanks to the local businesses who donated prizes. The prize drawings will be on Sunday Oct. 8 at 3 p.m.

The library is still accepting donations of books in good condition for the sale. Please bring your items into the library during business hours. We hope to see you at the sale, which is the Friends’ major fund-raiser of the year. All proceeds go to the Blanding Library to help fund programs throughout the year.

Paying Cash For

Good Neighbor Day

National Good Neighbor Day on September 28 is supported by The Hopeful Neighborhood Project, a non-profit organization committed to improving neighborhoods. Stop into the Blanding to say Hello then take time to walk through our Story Walk, or Chalk our Walkways. Greet us with “Hello Neighbor!” and we will waive your overdue fines.

Alpacas at the Library!

On Thurs. Sept. 28 at 10:30, you can meet some special neighbors, alpacas from Kave Rock Farm in Rehoboth. Owners Dave and Karen Medeiros will answer all your questions and tell us all about their animals. You can bring chairs and blankets for this outdoor program.

Movie Night

Another family movie night is scheduled for Friday Sept. 29 at 6 pm. This will be a showing of “The Secret Life of Bees”, a heartwarming story of a young girl who finds love and acceptance from a trio of independent sisters.

Story Walk

A new Story Walk, “The Busy Bees”, takes readers on an adventure through a garden of colorful flowers, while teaching about the important role bees play as pollinators. Author Ann Taylor’s charming illustrations make this book engaging and educational for all ages. Thanks to the Friends of the Blanding Library for sponsoring our Walk, on display in the front garden of Goff Hall through September.

Story Times

Story & Craft Hour for children ages 3 and up continues on Thursdays from 10:30 to 11:30. A simple craft to make and take home will be featured. Siblings are welcome. No registration necessary. Baby and toddler story times are held at 10:30 to 11 on Tuesdays. Children and caregivers will enjoy a fun interactive program of books, music, movement and games. For children up though age 4. Siblings are welcome. No registration necessary.

Library Card Sign-Up

September is Library Card Sign-Up Month. This is a national campaign to emphasize the importance of library cards to a child’s education and to combat illiteracy. Each year the ALA sets a new theme to help libraries celebrate, and this year’s theme is Get in Your Element-- Sign up for a library card! From borrowing books, e-books, museum passes and more, a library card is “elemental”. At the Blanding Library, you must be at least 5 years old to apply, and children will need a parent or guardian’s signature. Stop by the library to find out more.

Author Visit in October

Coming up in October, there will be an author visit on Thurs. Oct. 12 at 6:30. Heather Dune Macadam and Simon Worrall will discuss their new book, “Star Crossed: A True Romeo and Juliet Story in Hitler’s Paris”. This is an epic true story of love and resistance during the Nazi occupation of Paris in World War II. Copies of the book will be available for purchase at the event.

The Blanding Public Library, 124 Bay State Rd. Rehoboth is open Monday through Thursday from 10 to 8, and on Friday and Saturday from 10 to 4. Closed on Sundays and holidays, including Mon. Oct. 9. Visit www.blandinglibrary.net or call 508-252-4236.

College Savings Vehicles

Written by Lars Lambrecht, CFP, CLU, BFA, AMPA, CDFA,

The current cost of a UMass Amherst education is more than $30,000 annually. Boston College tuition is more than $80,000 annually! It can be overwhelming to think about this, and quite easy to procrastinate on getting started. I encourage clients to start sooner than later. You can start a college fund with as little as $1,000 or $100 per month. Start something today, and then slowly increase savings each year as your cash flow allows. This approach can take a significant dent out of college costs.

529 Plans: The most popular (and often the best) vehicle for college savings is a 529 Plan. Money invested in a 529 plan grows TAX FREE if it is utilized for qualified education expenses. This can make a huge impact if your children are young. For example, if you invest $10,000 when your child is 3 years old, and it grows at an 8% return, you would have over $30,000 when s/he is 18 years old. The $20,000 of growth is generally tax-free!

As I mentioned, 529 plans must be used for qualified education expenses. Most educational institutions meet this definition. In other words, it can be used for college, trade school, graduate school, etc. There is no limit on what can be withdrawn from a 529 plan for higher education. 529 funds can also be used for private Kindergarten through Grade 12 education, but you are limited to $10,000 annually.

The major downside of a 529 plan is that all of it must be used for education expenses. If not, you need to pay taxes on the growth PLUS a 20% penalty! There is flexibility regarding who the 529 plan can be used for. For example, if you have plans for your two children and one of them does not go to college, the accounts can be consolidated for the child attending college. You can also use the funds for education of yourself, your nephew, your grandchild, etc. Congress recently passed new legislation (SECURE 2.0 Act) that allows unused money in a 529 plan to be converted to a Roth IRA. We are still waiting for the IRS to provide clarity on the rules,

CLTC. Lars is a Rehoboth resident and Private Wealth Advisor. and there are some strings attached, but this new provision may be a great option for leftover money in a 529 plan.

Roth IRA: Roth IRAs are excellent and flexible vehicles that can be used to purchase real estate, finance college expenses and fund your retirement. You are generally able to withdraw the amount that you invest in a Roth IRA for any reason, without incurring taxes or penalties. For example, if you contributed $20,000 and it grew to $30,000, you can generally pull the $20,000 out for any purpose. Up to $10,000 of growth can be used to purchase qualified real estate. Any of the earnings can be used to pay college costs. If you are using earnings for a home purchase or college expenses, you need to pay income taxes on the growth, but there is no penalty. If you let your Roth IRA grow until you are 59 ½, you can withdraw the growth tax-free! I love Roth IRAs because they have these cool features and can serve multiple purposes. There are income limits to be able to contribute to a Roth IRA, and you are limited in the amount you can invest in one. Higher income earners are sometimes able to do a “Back Door Roth.” This strategy is a bit too complex for the scope of this article, but something to discuss with your financial advisor.

UTMA Accounts:Uniform Transfers to Minor Act (UTMA) Accounts used to be popular, but are rarely used these days. There are two primary disadvantages of UTMAs. First and foremost, if your child qualifies for financial aid, money held in UTMAs can hinder aid your child might receive. Secondly, when your child turns 21, any money in the UTMA legally becomes theirs. There are some tax advantages with UTMAs. A portion of the earnings are not taxed, and a portion of the earnings are taxed at your child’s tax bracket.

College planning is an expansive topic. The three vehicles discussed in this article should serve as a starting point to discuss with your financial advisor. Future articles will cover other aspects of college planning including what drives financial aid, college financing options and loan programs.

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Seekonk Public Schools Hosts New Hires Orientation Ahead of 2023-24 School Year

Seekonk — Ahead of students’ return to school, Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell is pleased to announce that Seekonk Public Schools hosted its New Hire Orientation last week.

During Aug. 21-22, Seekonk school officials welcomed 12 out of its 13 new hires to the Seekonk community as part of their orientation at the Hurley Middle School.

New hires include:

• Isabel Given - Aitken Elementary School Special Education

• Margaret Hack - Hurley Middle School Special Education

• Danielle MacKenney - Martin Elementary School Visual Arts

• Daniel Snizek - Seekonk High School Band

• David Flaxman - Hurley Middle School Spanish

• John Doorley - Seekonk High School Biology

• Kaya Flanagan - Aitken Elementary School Grade Three

• Felicia Sollitto - Aitken Elementary School Special Education

• Taylor Dudley - Aitken Elementary School Technology

• Madison Rodgers - Martin Elementary School Grade Two

• Miranda Laughlin - Martin Elementary School Library

• Meredith Rockett - Martin Elementary School Kindergarten

• Timarie Malo - Hurley Middle School Library/Media

“I am so proud to welcome these faculty members to the Seekonk team,” said Superintendent Kidwell. “Our interview teams and building administrators have done a skillful job of identifying those who will be positive contributors to our district’s culture. We are lucky to spend these two days with them, and I commend Assistant Superintendent Zachary Waddicor for organizing their introduction to the district.”

During the orientation, new hires met with Central Office administrators including Superintendent Kidwell, Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning Waddicor, School Business Administrator Dr. Ryan McGee, Director of Student Service George Kelleher, and Director of Technology and Digital Learning Trisha Leary.

Over the course of the two days, new hires discussed an array of topics relating to the school district, including its Strategy for Success and Vision of Student Success (Vision of a Graduate) and took part in technology integration and team-building exercises.

While discussing the District Strategy for Student Success, which is also known as the District Improvement Plan, new hires

Back row from left: Isabel Given, Margaret Hack, Danielle MacKenney, Daniel Snizek, David Flaxman, John Doorley and Kaya Flanagan. Sitting from left: Felicia Sollitto, Taylor Dudley, Madison Rodgers, Miranda Laughlin and Meredith Rockett. Not pictured Timarie Malo. (Photo courtesy Seekonk Public Schools)

learned about the district’s current vision through 2026 and how their positions contribute to that vision.

Attendees were also given access to various district software accounts to help them get acclimated to the instructional tools the district provides through technology.

“New Hire Orientation truthfully is one of my favorite events of the school year. This year’s class of new hires are fantastic educators: some veterans in the field and some new to the profession,” said Assistant Superintendent Waddicor. “As always, we are extremely excited to welcome back Seekonk Public Schools graduates to now serve in the profession alongside us.”

Seekonk Schools Superintendent Pledges Teamwork

By Joe Siegel

Seekonk Public Schools Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell is placing an emphasis on teamwork for the 2023-2024 academic year, which begins on August 30.

Kidwell, who started working for the 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. “Rockland was a smaller district, similar in size in Seekonk, and I found I really liked the small district feel,” Kidwell said, noting she had a rapport with members of the school committee during her initial interview last May. “It was so clear to me that my values and interests matched what Seekonk schools were looking for.”

There are some new faces in the central office, including Ryan McGee, the district business administrator, and Trisha Leary, the director of technology and digital learning.

Zachary Waddicor returns as Assistant Superintendent along with George Kelleher as Director of Student Services. There will be new assistant principals for Hurley Middle

School and Aitken Elementary School. “My biggest goal is to support the existing team in the great work they were already doing and find additional areas we can work efficiently towards improved academic success for students towards having the schools be a place where all students feel a sense of belonging,” Kidwell said, noting she wants the community to see Seekonk High School as a “great place” to send their children.

A feasibility study was conducted last year to determine the physical conditions of all the school buildings. The report said millions of dollars in renovations were necessary. Town officials are hoping residents will approve funding for a South End fire station. A new Department of Public Works facility is also on the drawing board. “There’s definitely some serious needs,” Kidwell noted. “We realize the schools may be the biggest part of the budget but we’re not the only part of the budget.”

Kidwell said the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) is working on what programs to offer to school districts. “We’ll look at what they’re offering and look at will be the best, most economical way to get the space we need, the facilities our students deserve, while meriting the highest reimbursement we can and the highest contribution we can get from the state.”

Kidwell grew up in Maryland and obtained a Masters degree at Boston University. She was a middle school and high school English teacher for 13 years. The transition to administration was a tough one. “It was hard to leave the classroom,” Kidwell explained. “Especially my twelfth grade students, I really enjoyed working with them. My move to administration came from recognizing that I could see the bigger picture and find ways to make systemic improvements that would help students and teachers.”

Kidwell described her leadership style as “collaborative” and “communicative.” “I believe strongly that everyone here has a role and everyone here has an area of expertise and we are a team and we couldn’t do this without each other,” she added.

Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell

Seekonk Public Schools Welcomes New Elementary and Middle School Assistant Principals

Seekonk -- Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell is pleased to announce that Seekonk Public Schools has welcomed two new assistant principals for the 2023-2024 school year.

Jessica Borges has been appointed as Assistant Principal of Aitken Elementary School and Matt Scott has been appointed as Assistant Principal of Hurley Middle School.

“On behalf of Seekonk Public Schools, I would like to welcome Jessica and Matt to the Seekonk community,” said Superintendent Kidwell. “As we transition into the beginning of the school year, I look forward to both Jessica and Matt acclimating themselves to their new schools and meeting our students and their families upon their return from summer break.”

Jessica Borges

Borges joins Seekonk Public Schools with more than 20 years of experience in education. She most recently served as an assistant principal at Pleasant View Elementary in Smithfield, R.I., where she worked closely with the principal to oversee the daily operations of the school among her many other responsibilities.

Borges worked at the Henry Barnard Laboratory School in Rhode Island, where she served as an intervention specialist and taught Kindergarten and Grade 1, culminating as Interim Principal.

Borges brings a philosophy of education that revolves around creating a nurturing and inclusive environment where every child feels valued, supported, and challenged to reach their full potential.

Borges holds a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Salve Regina University, a Master’s of Education in Literacy from Providence College, and a Master’s of Education in Educational Leadership from Rhode Island College.

Matt Scott

Scott has more than 12 years of educational experience, with six of those years in an administrative capacity. He most recently served as Vice Principal of the Resiliency Preparatory Academy in Fall River. Scott also served as the director of operations and as a physical education and health teacher.

During his tenure in Fall River, Scott co-founded the student leadership council (SLC) with the primary focus of the group being to provide students with leader-

ship roles within their school and service opportunities within their community. He also previously led the Weightlifting and Strength Training after-school program.

He began his career at Bristol-Plymouth Regional Technical High School as a physical education teacher.

Scott holds a Bachelor’s degree in criminal science from Mount Ida College and a Master’s of Secondary Education and Initial Licensure Program from Endicott College.

Health Education in Seekonk Schools

By Joe Siegel

Seekonk School officials will not be making any changes to the health education curriculum. Last July, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) released a 46 page draft of a new curriculum framework for Comprehensive Health and Physical Education. DESE is seeking feedback from parents and educators about what should be taught in schools.

School committee chair Meaghan Mahoney said members of the school community have been asking questions about what the proposed frameworks would look like in Seekonk. Mahoney said she had asked Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell and Assistant Superintendent Zachary Waddicor to provide information to the committee and the public about the new frameworks and how they align with the curriculum in Seekonk schools.

Jessica Borges

Matt Scott

DESE has the ultimate authority on the matter, which means the school committee can’t override their recommendations. “We do not have the ability to take action on the frameworks at the district level,” Mahoney noted. “We are absolutely entitled to our own opinions and I encourage any opinions to be voiced at the state level or through public comment.”

“This is at the state level right now. This is not a local issue,” Kidwell said at Monday’s school committee meeting. “There is nothing we are doing to take action on this at this time.”

Committee member Kyle Juckett said he was concerned about the “hyper-sexualization especially directed at younger (children).”

Kidwell said the administration would review policies and procedures around parent communication and the ability for parents to “opt out” if they were uncomfortable with certain subject matters being taught in school. “The law is there to protect you and to protect your child and to allow you to have the purview of making some decisions that are right for your family,” Kidwell explained.

Parents can provide feedback about the proposed changes in the school health framework through an online survey accessible at https://www.doe.mass.edu/sfs/healthframework/, or by mailing or emailing DESE at the addresses listed on their website.

Waddicor said students at the elementary level receive one period of physical education per week. Health education is not currently taught at the elementary level, Waddicor noted.

Health education begins at the middle school level at Grade 6. Health courses are a semester-based course and not all students receive health (education) due to scheduling conflicts, Waddicor said.

At Seekonk High School, students are required to pass three semesters of physical education in their traditional four years. “All students are required to take health education in either Grade 9 or Grade 10,” Waddicor continued. The high school also offers elective courses which go into greater detail. Those courses include independent living and introduction to childhood development.

Waddicor said after DESE releases their final report, a team of teachers and administrators would review the district’s current courses and determine how to make the appropriate adjustments.

DESE has outlined 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.

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

New D-R Principal Settles In

By Joe Siegel

Principal Jacqueline Ash will be welcoming Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School students back to classes on September 6th. Ash started working for the district on July 1.

Ash said D-R has a lot to offer students, including CTE (Career and Technical Education) classes, advanced placement classes, sports, clubs, and extracurricular activities. “It was the excitement of how to enhance all of that to bring it even further and enhancing (students’) learning opportunities and giving them more experiences,” Ash explained as her reason for taking on a leadership role in the district.

Ash has spent her entire 34-year career in Pawtucket as a teacher, elementary principal, middle school principal, and most recently as principal of Shea High School.

Ash was formerly a finalist for Rhode Island Principal of the Year.

Superintendent Bill Runey noted Ash brings a “student-centric approach to DR. Having experience with CTE programs at Shea rounds out her outstanding credentials.”

Ash acknowledges being on a learning curve as she gets to know the faculty and staff at D-R and what their philosophies are all about. “I need to learn about the climate and culture of the building,” Ash noted. “I need to learn more about the academic programming. I need to look at the data and see what the data says, what are we doing really well in, what do we need to enhance and do better in. I firmly believe in a collaborative style of leadership.”

Ash praised the district’s “Portrait of a Graduate” program and hopes to improve upon it with the assistance of the central office staff. Another goal is to increase enrollment in the CTE programs.

“I always wanted to be a teacher,” Ash noted. “I’m a real relationship person, so when I (attended) Manhattanville (College), I just got to know everybody. I majored in American Studies and they picked up education. When I left, I was going to teach history.”

Ash’s first teaching position was at Samuel Slater Middle School in Pawtucket. She taught 8th grade American History and

Principal Jacqueline Ash

Civics. “I got involved right away, not just with the academics,” Ash recalled. “I helped to do the intramural program, I was a student council advisor because I’ve always believed that it’s not just the classroom, the students have to see you outside the classroom to build those relationships. Your success as a teacher and I think as an administrator, a big part of your success is the relationships.”

Ash spent seven years as Principal of Shea High School, an experience which proved highly rewarding. “I’ve always believed in giving (students) a belief system, and if they believe in their work and what they can accomplish, there’s no stopping them,” Ash added.

Rehoboth Lawsuit Against D-R School District to Continue

By Joe Siegel

The lawsuit filed by the Town of Rehoboth against the Dighton Rehoboth Regional School District and the School Committee will not be resolved until 2024.

According to Superintendent Bill Runey, the case was about to enter the discovery stage when the parties agreed in December 2022 that they would attempt to mediate the issues presented in the litigation.

The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Committee and District indicated that they would be amenable to mediating all issues addressed in each count of the litigation. The Town of Rehoboth’s position was that they wished to mediate issues raised in litigation as well as issues that they currently have with the Amended Regional Agreement.

However, it now appears those discussions have broken down and both parties are back to square one.

Eric Brainsky, the attorney for the Town of Rehoboth, declined to comment when contacted by the Reporter Thursday.

The lawsuit, which was filed in September 2021, alleges the Regional School District and School Committee violated the terms of its regional agreement with the Town by undertaking and funding capital projects without the approval of Town Meeting, committed fraud, and breached their fiduciary obligations owed to the citizens and taxpayers of Rehoboth.

The lawsuit centers on two capital projects costing $15 million which had resulted in the purchase and installation of solar arrays and heating and air conditioning in and on the grounds of various schools operated by the district. “These projects were approved by the School Committee and, in direct violation of the Regional Agreement and State Law, were funded as part of the Regional School District’s operating budgets without Town Meeting approval,” the lawsuit noted.

“Because the capital expenses were incorporated into the District’s operating budget instead of being apportioned to both towns as stated in the Regional Agreement and the Massachusetts General Laws, the town of Rehoboth has been unknowingly paying for a portion of the costs for capital projects located in Dighton’s elementary and middle schools since 2016-2017.”

As a remedy, the suit seeks to dissolve the Regional Agreement, as well as all damages provable at trial.

“I’m truly disappointed that we couldn’t agree to the scope of the mediation as I was hopeful that this would save both money and time,” Runey said Wednesday. He added that “the task force that I assembled in the fall successfully navigated changes to the

Regional Agreement. We remain committed to using that process should the leaders in the Town of Rehoboth be willing. This would be more cost effective than the time we will need to devote to the discovery phase and subsequent legal proceedings.”

“It is unfortunate that we were unable to come to an agreement on a framework for mediation to resolve this matter out of court as it will continue to divert valuable time and resources away from the mission of the District,” added School Committee Chairman Aaron Morse. “Nonetheless, we will continue to work with both towns in an efficient and responsible manner to address the needs of the D-R community as we have throughout this litigation process.”

Runey noted the litigation “has been on hiatus for approximately six months and will now shift to the discovery stage. It is anticipated that discovery will be completed sometime early in 2024 and at that time, each side will file motions to resolve the case or narrow the issues further.”

Palmer River Elementary School Back to School Playdate

Tuesday, September 5th

Meet the Principals, enjoy treats from Palagi’s Ice Cream Truck, and catch up with friends!

Pre-K & Kindergarten 4-4:30PM | 1st Grade 4:30-5PM | 2nd Grade 5:00-5:30PM | 3rd Grade 5:30-6PM | 4th Grade 6-6:30PM

RSVP by September 4th at www.Rehobothptsa.org

Palmer River Elementary & Beckwith Middle School Annual Trunk or Treat Fundraiser

Saturday, October 21st 5:00PM – 8:00PM

Candy – Food Trucks - Music – Touch a Truck – & More! DR High School - Tickets: $5 each Kid and Adults

Buy tickets online by October 19 at www.Rehobothptsa.org

Tickets will be $8 after October 19

Outdoor STEAM Classes at P.R.E.S.

Last spring the 4th graders of Palmer River put on waders, grabbed nets and buckets and took to the two tributaries of the Palmer River that pass through the elementary and middle school campus. STEAM Instructor and shining star for the students, Emily Sullivan, oversaw the program which joined the 4th grade teachers, river advocate Tom Quigley of Middleboro and Katy Rourke Wilson, the Chair of the Friends of the Palmer River all in an effort to put science into action through outdoor exploration.

Students recorded stream speed, water depths, bottom habitat and observed stream critters. A “Streambug Scavenger Hunt” Fundana was given to all participating students as a gift from the Friends, so that they could match what they found in the water and determine if the water was hosting sensitive bugs, which need more dissolved oxygen (D.O.), or tolerant bugs, which can live with little to no D.O. These little bugs tell us a great deal about the quality of water in the Palmer River. A highlight was a crayfish that zoomed backwards! Everyone enjoyed being outside and learning from nature.

In hopes of continuing this unique learning experience this upcoming school year, Rehoboth resident and retired science teacher, Otter Brown, joined Katy in creating a rock riffle in the East Branch over the summer when water was low, which should increase the diversity of stream life. Thermometers, a dissolved oxygen test kit and more nets will be added to the students’ arsenal. Any volunteers who would like to help the project get off the ground and into the river, should email the Friends at palmerriverfriends@gmail.com.

Beckwith News

On August 31st, the Beckwith Middle School held an orientation for incoming 5th grade students and their parents, along with 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students and their parents new to the school. Select sixth grade students provided tours of the school for families and the PTSA assisted with the orientation and provided freeze pops.

Health

Education at DightonRehoboth Schools

By Joe Siegel

Dighton-Rehoboth

School Superintendent

Bill Runey is encouraging parents and community members to share their opinions on new state guidelines for health education. Last July, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) released a 46 page draft of a new curriculum framework for Comprehensive Health and Physical Education.

Runey explained that school districts have discretion to determine how standards are implemented at the local level. Runey told the school committee his goal is to make the curriculum “more accessible” to families. “I think it’s extremely important that we are as transparent as possible about our curriculum,” Runey said at the August 22 meeting. “It’s also important to note that state law does give parents the right to ‘opt-out’ their children for lessons related to sex education.”

DESE has outlined 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.

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

Mohegan Seal Coating

& Driveway Maintenance

Above photos: Students and Staff attending Beckwith Orientation

Students being greeted at Beckwith Orientation

Supporting Teachers

4 ways to help lighten the burden for educators

(Family Features) Teachers are more than leaders in their classrooms, they are leaders in the communities they serve, committed to educating the leaders of tomorrow, and their value cannot be overstated. To provide an optimal learning environment that equips their students for success, teachers often go above and beyond, sometimes at great personal expense.

In fact, an analysis by My eLearning World estimates teachers will spend an average of $820.14 out of pocket on school supplies during the 2023-24 school year, the largest amount ever, which doesn’t include all of the hours dedicated beyond the traditional school day.

To help alleviate some of the burden, consider these ways parents, guardians and community members can contribute and support the efforts of educators.

Volunteer in the Classroom

One of the easiest ways to learn what life is like in the classroom and truly understand the needs is to spend some time there helping out. Many school districts could use volunteers to assist with one-on-one tutoring, organizing library books, chaperoning field trips, speaking to classes about career paths and more. Start by checking with your child’s teacher or calling the front office to see what opportunities might be available.

Assist with Classroom Registries

Well-equipped classrooms are essential to student success, but teachers cannot do it alone. To help assist educators in reducing out-of-pocket expenses for classroom supplies, Walmart’s Classroom Registry allows teachers to create personalized lists of items they need, making it easy for the community to contribute to and support their efforts. Tailored to educators with personalized creation flow and recommended classroom items unique to each grade level – including popular items such as stationery, classroom decorations, art supplies, classroom treats and rewards such as stickers and “edutainment” items – teachers can share their lists quickly and easily through direct links to their custom registries. Registries are also discoverable via the registry search using the teacher’s last name and state.

Work with Your Student at Home

Not all learning takes place in the classroom. In fact, you can model the importance of your child’s education at home and create good habits such as doing homework at a certain time each night, getting a good night’s rest before school and using lessons learned

in the classroom during family time. Contact your child’s teacher to learn more about the lesson plan and what you can do at home to assist with your student’s education.

Attend School Board Meetings to Voice Support

Because important decisions that impact teachers are often made by those not in the classroom every day, keeping tabs on the issues impacting teachers and local school districts can help you advocate for educators if the need arises. Start by attending a few school board meetings to learn how they operate and get a handle on issues directly impacting teachers. Then make your voice heard – or run for the school board – to support policies and actions that serve teachers’ best interests.

Find customized classroom wish lists and more resources to support teachers at Walmart.com.

6 Ways To Spark Your Child’s Curiosity And Passion For Science

(BPT) - Kids and teenagers nationwide are starting a new school year, which offers parents a chance to evaluate the ways they can support and encourage their children to help them succeed. Parents play an active role in their child’s education, especially as it pertains to subjects that have increased importance within a student’s curriculum.

In recent years, there has been an emphasis among science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education, as it provides students with hands-on learning that can nurture their problemsolving skills. Moreover, science specifically offers opportunities for children to explore the world around them, and it’s important for parents to know how to drive passion and curiosity for science in this next generation.

For easy ways to inspire your children’s curiosity and enthusiasm for science and nature, educator and international STEM advocate Saki Milton is offering tips for parents to consider as the new school year starts - whether they’re out-and-about or at home.

1. Let kids explore nature: Stimulating interest in science at an early age is key to encouraging their exploration and curiosity, and the natural world is a perfect starting point to engage kids in conversations about science.

“The next time your family is hanging out in the backyard, at the park or walking around the block, encourage kids to take in the vibrant ecosystem around them - which is full of living organisms that depend on each other for survival,” said Milton. “Nurture their interest by encouraging hands-on examination, fostering questions and showing how science connects to the real world.”

2. Elevate science outings: Take advantage of the wonder and exploration found in science centers, planetariums and natural history museums. Many venues offer interactive displays that can spark your child’s curiosity in science-related fields in a fun, handson and engaging way. Consider spending time at one of them for your next family outing. Some host birthday parties or other events for children that offer an unforgettable experience.

3. Connect curiosity to future careers in science: Science is a perfect outlet for naturally curious children, as there are so many things to experience and explore. Considering how much STEM-related careers are expected to grow in the next decade, their childhood curiosity for science and nature may lead to a career that could last a lifetime.

Is your child interested in space? Experience endless exploration through astronomy. Obsessed with animals? Maybe zoology is for them. How about insects? Believe it or not, there’s a perfect job out there for them, too. Expert entomologists study insects and use their research and knowledge to develop products that help protect families and their homes from insects and the diseases they may carry. The STEM line of products are scientifically engineered

bug-killing insecticides and mosquito repellents that mix science with nature to help all of us keep those pesky bugs at bay. Their products, such as STEMâ„¢ Multi-Insect Killer Spray (Ants, Roaches, Flies) and STEMâ„¢ Mosquito Repellent Spray, are powered by plant-based active ingredients, such as lemongrass, geraniol or peppermint. With no added dye, fragrance or harsh chemical odors, they help fight bugs safely and effectively around people and pets, when used as directed.

4. Transform your kitchen into a science lab: Sparking love for science begins at home by transforming everyday moments into scientific adventures. One of the easiest ways is to run simple at-home experiments that can spark curiosity. You can become one of your child’s science teachers this year by finding a few experiments to do together.

“Start with mixing baking soda and white vinegar to introduce chemical reactions in a powerful way. Or show them how plants and trees ‘breathe’ through their leaves by submerging a leaf in water and watching bubbles appear,” Milton recommended. “Whichever experiment you choose, the point is that students love science when they actually do science.”

5. Show versus tell: It’s easiest for kids to learn and grasp new concepts when there’s a tangible outcome of their work. For instance, absorbing information about chemistry from a textbook is much harder than seeing chemistry happen in front of their eyes.

“I always encourage parents and their kids to try household chemistry projects, such as making homemade soap or lip balm, which are great ways to learn about how substances interact with one another, as well as math by mixing substances proportionately,” advised Milton.

6. Emphasize that science is for everyone: Last but most vital, remind your child that science is not a club for a select few. It’s for everyone! Using positive and reaffirming language around your child can help foster a sense of belongingness in science.

“Remind them that science is for everyone, and everyone is a scientist,” Milton added.

Protecting Children in a Digital Age

(Family Features) Keeping a watchful eye on your kids requires an increasing level of tech savvy many parents find intimidating. Not only are your kids vulnerable to bad actors online, but your family’s personal information could be at risk, as well.

Learn how to protect your children and family in this digital age with these tips:

Elementary-Age Children

Encourage open communication. Have conversations about what your kids see and do online and talk with them about potential dangers. Avoid lecturing in favor of an open exchange of information. Make their inherent interest in privacy work in your favor. Kids in this age group, particularly toward the middle school years, understand the concept of privacy and value it immensely. Use that context to help them understand what goes online is there to stay. Talk about what kinds of information should always be kept private, including identifying details like addresses and social security numbers.

Stay on alert. Not all apps are completely safe (even the ones you can access from trusted stores) and not all filters are foolproof. Keep close tabs on what your kids are downloading by reading comments and reviews, and regularly monitoring what kind of content they see.

Middle School and High School Kids

Continue talking about privacy. You can never have too many conversations about privacy. What seems like harmless sharing on social media can be quite revealing. For example, frequent posts about visits to a favorite store or restaurant can allow a predator to begin tracking behavior patterns that make your child a target. It’s also important for kids to understand how their privacy settings work. For example, settings that allow exposure to friends of friends make their visibility to strangers much broader than they may realize. Help manage their online reputation. Behaviors that once resulted in a day or two of hallway chatter can now live forever. Documenting mischief online is only fun until it spills over into real life and everyone sees those mistakes in full color – including prospective future employers.

Be clear about your position on bullying. From the safe distance of a screen, it’s easier for kids (and adults) to say things they’d never

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say in person. Teach your kids to handle problems constructively offline and avoid engaging in attacks on others through social media, email and other platforms.

College Students

Reinforce the risks. Once they’re on their own, kids may feel more liberated to make their own choices online. However, college students are easy prey for identity theft and worse. Remind them what’s at stake if they fail to protect their identity and private information, like where they live and what they do on a regular basis.

Teach smart practices. With all the independence that comes with college life, this is an ideal time for your student to take personal responsibility for his or her online security, including learning about virus protection, updating software, avoiding scams and backing up data.

If you’re looking for more practical advice for everyday family matters, visit eLivingtoday.com.

What are teachers and students saying about AI and education?

(BPT) - When ChatGPT came on to the scene, it and similar generative AI platforms immediately began sparking heated debates among educators, students and parents about its potential to disrupt education.

A recent study from global learning platform Quizlet found that high school and college teachers and students (aged 14-22) who have used ChatGPT or a similar AI technology agree that it is an effective study tool, with students in particular responding that it helps them to better understand the material and study faster and more efficiently.

Generative AI will be on the minds of students and teachers as they prepare to head back to the classroom this fall. With this technology top of mind, here are some things to consider this school year.

Students study smarter, not harder, with AI

Those that claim the use of AI in the classroom hinders students’ academic potential can think again. Students who spend three or more hours a night on an average weeknight during the school year studying gave credit to ChatGPT and similar AI technologies’ ability to streamline studying by generating helpful resources like study guides. Other popular uses among students included conducting research and summarizing or synthesizing information. Twenty-six percent of students in this group also said that teachers have encouraged them to use AI-generated technology like ChatGPT while they study, whereas students who reported less than two hours of studying on an average weeknight during the school year were less likely to have a teacher recommend using this technology.

UC Berkeley student Sam Clement gives AI-generated learning a thumbs up, saying, “It feels like an extension of my brain, or a supplementary boost to my own thinking abilities.” He added, “Platforms like ChatGPT make studying engaging by allowing me to probe concepts over and over until I understand. It can feel like unlimited office hours, something invaluable to busy college students.”

Students also reported that AI-generated technology has had a positive impact on their mental health, with 73% claiming it helps reduce stress and anxiety, and 57% claiming it decreases their workload.

Teachers give it an “A”

High school and college teachers that have used ChatGPT and similar AI technologies for school cite the top four uses as research, generating lesson plans, summarizing or synthesizing information and generating classroom materials like tests and assignments. Nearly half of teachers agreed that the vast capabilities of AI have made their workload more manageable.

Maureen Lamb, Dean of Educational Technology and Innovative Pedagogy and a member of the Latin faculty at The Ethel Walker School, says, “The notion that tools like Google Bard and ChatGPT are essentially shortcuts focuses on the output rather than what we want the technology to help us achieve. It’s the same question teachers ask ourselves when creating assessments and exams. ‘What skill or concept do I want my students to demonstrate?’ If ChatGPT can provide a teacher with a lesson plan for the day or generate an essay prompt, then great. It gives teachers more opportunity to refine our teaching approach and challenge students appropriate to their unique needs.”

Students and teachers embrace AI in the classroom

Some students and teachers are already working together to set ground rules for using platforms based in generative AI at school and while studying at home. Thirty-seven percent of student respondents have had teachers or instructors talk to them about the proper use of AI technology as it relates to course work, and 60% of teachers say that students are proactively approaching them about using these platforms to enhance their studies. Teachers that have been approached by students about using ChatGPT or similar technologies say their students are either asking for permission to use AI-powered platforms, examples of proper use cases or instructions on how to use AI technologies.

Lamb, who embraces the use and exploration of new technologies in her classroom, says, “A strong and trusting classroom community was something we struggled to find learning virtually during the pandemic. We need to think about technology in the classroom now like we did then.” She adds, “AI should think with us, not for us. Now, more than ever, we should encourage students to trust the power of their own voices. While AI-generated technology is a powerful tool, human voices still hold a huge creative advantage.”

AI can help create equitable learning environments

Students and teachers see a future with limitless potential when learning and AI come together - 42% of all respondents categorized their attitude toward AI technology in education positively. Respondents that disagree with bans on the use of AI technology in schools say that it expands access to information, assists with studying and enhances creativity and critical thinking. Forty-eight percent of teachers predict that ChatGPT and similar AI technology will help students recover from learning loss that was caused by the pandemic.

“Personally, I love the technology and don’t think that its benefits to the classroom have been fully discovered yet,” Clement added. “AI-generated technology allows students to find learning solutions that work for them, and applies what works for them to any and every problem or concept they could need. Teaching students the proper way to use this technology will be key, but I for one am very optimistic about its future.”

Your dream DESTINATION WEDDING awaits on Tybee Island, GA

Tracey-Anne (Greene) Van Ahnen

Pawtucket, RI – Tracey-Anne (Greene) Van Ahnen, 66, formerly of Seekonk, passed away on Thursday, August 24, 2023, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Bridgeport, Connecticut, she was a daughter of Barbara Greene of Swansea, Massachusetts, and the late Arthur Greene.

From a young age, Tracey embodied the value of kindness (amongst other beautiful qualities). She thought about pursuing law after high school as she believed that everyone deserved a fair trial. Though her aspiration to become a lawyer was set aside, she worked various jobs throughout her young life, ranging from retail to the medical field. All of which prepared her for the most challenging position: serving on the Seekonk School Committee.

Tracey served on the Seekonk School Committee for eight years in various roles while working full-time in customer service and caring for her three children. Her innate sense of compassion, kindness, and equality shined through as she fought for students’ education, access to learning accommodations, and for teachers as well. She then took part in the town’s building committee where she assisted in overseeing the addition to the Seekonk Middle School.

Her position in customer service at Cherry and Webb led her to Mark-iT Market for several years and eventually Staples Corporate where she became a Systems Administrator. Tracey always maintained a high-level of professionalism, handling the most stressful situations rationally and with grace. She truly loved her job, almost as much as the friends she made along the way.

Tracey also had a flair for party planning. It brought her so much joy to create menus, pick out decor, and bring her beautiful creations to life for work events, parties, holidays, and weddings.

Her other hobbies included reading, horseback riding, recreational gardening, and shopping for thoughtful gifts year-round. She truly enjoyed gifting others and paying it forward when she could.

Tracey was a wonderful mom. She was supportive, patient, loving, and kind. Even through the most difficult seasons of life, she made sure her children’s lives were filled with love and laughter. Her indomitable spirit will forever be missed.

Besides her loving mother, Tracey leaves her son, Timothy Van Ahnen and his wife, Kathryn Bloomquist of Milford; two daughters, Taylor Van Ahnen of Swansea, and Victoria McCready and her husband, Kevin,

of New Rochelle, NY; two grandchildren, Nathan Van Ahnen, and Shaymus McCready; a sister, Kathlene Verville and her husband, Claude, of Swansea; an uncle Ira Sheldon of Walcott, CT; cousins, Pamela Howe and her husband, Dave, of Plantsville, CT, and Bo Sheldon and his wife, Val, of Walcott, Ct; as well as several nieces and nephews. She was the sister of the late Mark Greene. Services for Tracey will be held on Saturday, September 23rd at 10:00 A.M. at Christ Church, 57 Main St., Swansea, MA. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts to MetroWest Humane Society https://metrowesthumanesociety.org would be appreciated. Arrangements are entrusted to William W. Tripp Funeral Home, Pawtucket, RI. TRIPPFUNERALHOME.com

Death Notices

Rehoboth

• David Alan Katseff, Of Rehoboth, MA, entered into rest on July 25, 2023, at the age of 76.

• Stephen John Palazzo, 72, of Rehoboth, MA, died on Sunday, July 30, 2023, in his home surrounded by his loving family.

Seekonk

• Walter W. Shears, 88, of Seekonk, formerly of Rehoboth passed away peacefully at home with family by his side on June 18, 2023.

• Brendan J. Giblin, 86, of Marnoch Drive, Seekonk, died peacefully on June 24, 2023.

• Elaine J. Roske, of Seekonk, MA, on the morning of August 5, 2023, passed away at Somerset Ridge Center comforted by her daughter and close family friend, John Derrick.

• Helen C. Keough, 95, of Seekonk, MA, passed away peacefully at home with her family by her side on Tuesday, August 22, 2023.

Proudly

Andrew J. Correia, MBIE; President/Funeral Director & Embalmer

Tracey-Anne (Greene) Van Ahnen

IN MEMORIAM

Robert Louis Turnblom

Robert Louis Turnblom, age 93, of Bristol, RI, formerly of Rehoboth, MA passed away after a long battle with cancer on Friday, July 28, 2023, at the Rhode Island Veterans Home in Bristol, RI. He was the husband of the late Anita M. (LeFave) Turnblom.

Born in Manchester, NH. Raised in Warwick, RI. He was predeceased by his parents Gustaf F. and Gertrude L. (Sherman) Turnblom and his brother Herbert F. and Barbara (Hayward) Turnblom of Detroit, MI.

Robert (Bob) graduated from the Nelson W. Aldrich High School in Lakewood, RI where he participated in football, gym exhibition, and basketball.

Robert served his country proudly in the United States Army during the Korean War. He attended Bryant College.

He met the love of his life at a Rhodes on the Pawtuxet dance. They were married in 1959 and soon moved to Rehoboth, MA where they raised three daughters.

Robert worked for over 40 years as an electronics technician at the Naval Underwater Systems Center (NUSC) in Newport, RI before retiring in 1995. He was recognized with a Career Service Award by the Secretary of the Navy for serving the Government of the United States.

He enjoyed photography, visiting casinos, computers, fishing in his younger years, golfing, bowling, and cruises with his wife and dear friends.

Mr. Turnblom is survived by his three daughters, Lynn (Bill) Gamble of Brackney, PA, Laurie (Mark) Guzman of Taunton, and Lisa (Scott) Wentworth of Rehoboth; seven grandchildren, Carolyn Gamble, Jillian Gamble, James Gamble, Mark A. (Christine) Guzman, Jr., Theresa (Mike) Rizzo, Brian Wentworth, and Holly Wentworth; and three great grandchildren, Angel Rizzo, Paul Rizzo, and Clara Rizzo.

Relatives and friends are cordially invited to visit with Robert’s family on Friday, August 25, 2023, from 4:00 to 7:00 pm, at the Sowiecki-Snyder Home for Funerals, 69 West Britannia Street, Taunton. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 26, 2023, at 10:00 am, in the chapel of the Rhode Island Veterans Home, 480 Metacom Avenue, Bristol, RI, followed by military honors. Interment will be in Notre Dame Cemetery, 359 Daggett Avenue, Pawtucket. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society.

For directions and online condolences, please visit us at www.sowieckifh.com or on Facebook at Sowiecki-Snyder Home for Funerals & Cremation Services.

Robert Louis Turnblom

Owners and Directors, Amy Silva Rigtrup, Type 3, Lawrence Quintal, Type 3 and Christine (DeLawrence) Quintal, Type 3

Make Mornings a Breeze with Time-Saving Breakfasts

(Family Features) Mornings can be hectic enough with wake-up calls, preparing for work, getting the kids ready and so many other daily tasks. Add in the need (or desire, at least) for a nutritious breakfast, and starting a new day can feel downright exhausting.

Make your mornings easier with delicious, better-for-you meals you can make ahead of time using simple ingredients like Success Boil-in-Bag Tri-Color Quinoa, which offers a heat-safe, BPA-free and FDA-approved bag and is easily prepared in just 10 minutes. You don’t have to know how to pronounce quinoa to enjoy its light, nutty flavor packed with protein and all nine essential amino acids.

As a good source of fiber, it’s a perfect solution composed of a medley of red, black and white quinoa that can make these Ham, Cheese and Zucchini Breakfast Cups a breeze. They’re an ideal on-the-go solution for weekday breakfast bites that fit your busy schedule.

Cook up a batch as part of your Sunday meal prep and enjoy a week’s worth of tasty, simple cups for the entire family. Once the combination of green onions, cheddar, ham, quinoa and more have been cooked and cooled, they can be refrigerated for up to 1 week.

For a creamier, fruity, dairy-free option, these Quinoa Overnight Oats make for a satisfying breakfast you can grab from the fridge and take to the office. Loaded with whole grains, bananas, blueberries and pomegranate, they’ll provide the energy you need to get through the day while saving time in the morning.

These tasty treats can also last up to 1 week in the refrigerator, but remember to wait to add any crunchy toppings, honey or syrup until you’re ready to enjoy so those favorite ingredients stay fresh longer. Another pro tip: Once you’re done preparing your sweet, nutritious breakfast for the week ahead, divide evenly into four resealable to-go containers to make weekday mornings as easy as possible.

To find more weekday morning solutions using easy-to-make whole grains, visit SuccessRice.com.

Ham, Cheese and Zucchini Breakfast Cups

Prep: 15 min ~ Cook: 25 min ~ Serves: 12

• 1 bag Success Tri-Color Quinoa

• nonstick cooking spray

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded zucchini

• 1/2 cup diced ham

• 2 eggs

• 1/4 cup egg white

• 1/4 cup sliced green onion

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions:

Prepare quinoa according to package directions. Preheat oven to 350 F.

Coat 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray.

In large bowl, combine shredded cheddar cheese, shredded zucchini, diced ham, eggs, egg white, sliced green onion, salt and black pepper. Mix well. Spoon batter into prepared muffin tin. Bake 25 minutes. Cool 5 minutes then remove to wire rack to cool completely.

Briggs Corner Store has been part of the community for nearly 100 years. Your trusted one stop shop!

• Wine, Beer & Spirits Store • UPS Access

Grocery Store

1503 Park Street, A leboro, MA • (508) 222-4442

Briggs Corner Store has been part of the community for nearly 100 years. Your trusted one stop shop!

Here at Ultimate Quality Seafood we thrive to bring you the freshest seafood at a competitive price.

• Open 7 Days a Week 10-6 in A leboro

• Open Friday & Saturday 12-6 in Rehoboth

508.415.6926 • 238 Winthrop Street, Rehoboth MA & 1503 Park Street, A leboro MA

Follow us on Facebook @ R&M Bakery

• Open 7 Days a Week 10-6 in A leboro

Please use Facebook messenger or text message 508.838.9262 for all orders.

* All orders must be placed at least 72 hours prior to when needed.

From

508.415.6926 • 238 Winthrop Street, Rehoboth MA & 1503 Park Street, A leboro MA

Catering for all your sweet treat needs...

• Open Friday & Saturday 12-6 in Rehoboth R&M Bakery

Coming soon! We are looking forward to having Cakes and Pies sold at Briggs Corner Store! Stay tuned for more details on how you can enjoy this new addition!

Baked Goods Delivered From Our Home To Yours

Catering for all

Quinoa Overnight Oats

Prep: 15 min ~ Cook: 10 min ~ Serves: 4

• 1 bag Success Tri-Color Quinoa

• 2 cups almond milk

• 1 cup quick-rolled oats

• 2 bananas, mashed

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1 cup fresh blueberries

• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds

Directions

Prepare quinoa according to package directions. Let cool completely.

In large bowl, combine almond milk, oats, bananas and cinnamon. Stir in quinoa and blueberries.

Cover and refrigerate overnight. Divide among four serving bowls and garnish with pomegranate seeds.

Tips: For added sweetness, drizzle with honey, maple syrup or agave syrup, to taste. For a grab-and-go breakfast, combine overnight oats mixture and divide in resealable, single-serving jars or containers. Seal and refrigerate overnight.

Source: Success Rice

‘Fall’ In Love with Family-Favorite Autumn Recipes

(Family Features) With temperatures cooling and cravings leaning toward comforting flavors, fall offers a perfect time for families to explore adventurous twists on favorite foods. As you and your loved ones rework the menu for autumn, turn to versatile ingredients that provide fresh tastes and new ways to enjoy classic recipes.

One star ingredient that can be used for appetizers, main courses, sides, snacks and desserts alike is watermelon. In fact, using the entire watermelon (rind included) means you’ve discovered a sustainable way to create nutritious meals without food waste.

Watermelon Flesh

In the fall, whole watermelon is still available in many areas. You can also find mini watermelon in the fresh cut produce section at many local grocers. The flesh is often the favorite (and most-used) part of the watermelon. Served on its own as a hydrating snack or as part of a recipe for tasty entrees, the flesh offers something for nearly every appetite so no watermelon goes to waste.

Watermelon Juice

Watermelon is 92% water, making it a sweet choice for staying hydrated. Even if your watermelon is overripe, don’t throw it out – instead, juice or puree it to retain value and nutrition. Use it to sweeten this Watermelon Bourbon Glaze then drizzle over a perfectly grilled flank steak and serve with mashed potatoes and grilled vegetables for an ideal fall meal.

Watermelon Rind

The rind is often thrown out – many people don’t realize you can eat it, too. The rind absorbs flavors added to it and adds an unexpected texture to this Watermelon Walnut Currant Chutney. Try serving over brie with crackers or simply dip with naan or baguettes. Find more flavorful fall solutions to avoid food waste at Watermelon.org.

Watermelon Bourbon Glaze with Grilled Flank Steak

Servings: 6

• 1 1/2 cups watermelon juice (approximately 2 1/2 cups chopped watermelon, blended)

• 2 tablespoon minced garlic

• 1/4 cup soy sauce

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 2 teaspoon hot sauce

• 1/4-1/2 cup bourbon

• 2 pounds flank steak or London broil

• 1/4 teaspoon cornstarch

Directions:

In medium saucepan over medium-high heat, reduce watermelon juice to 2/3 cup. Toward end of reduction, add garlic. Remove from heat, cool 10 minutes then add soy sauce, brown sugar, hot sauce and bourbon. Mix well.

Place watermelon-bourbon glaze in large zip-top bag. Add steak and massage to cover meat. Close bag and refrigerate 3-4 hours. Heat grill to high heat. Remove steak from plastic bag and gently shake to remove excess glaze.

Grill steak 4-6 minutes; turn, grill 4-6 minutes, depending on thickness of steak. Remove from heat. Steak should be pink in center.

Allow steak to rest on platter or cutting board 10 minutes. Mix small amount of watermelon-bourbon glaze with cornstarch. In small saucepan over medium-high heat, add cornstarch mixture to remaining glaze and simmer 3-5 minutes. Reduce to medium heat until mixture thickens. Remove from heat.

Cut flank steak on bias into thin strips. Drizzle watermelonbourbon glaze over top.

Watermelon Walnut Currant Chutney

Servings: 16

• 4 cups watermelon, juiced

• 2 cups watermelon rind (white part), diced small

• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

• 1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar

• 1/2 medium white onion, sliced

• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

• 1/4 teaspoon cloves, ground

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

• 1 lemon, juice only

• 2 tablespoons currants

• 2 tablespoons roasted walnuts

• 1 wheel brie cheese, for serving

• crackers, for serving

Directions

In saucepan over medium heat, reduce watermelon juice to 2 cups. Combine with watermelon rind, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, white onion, garlic, nutmeg, cloves, lemon zest, lemon juice, currants and walnuts; simmer until almost dry.

Chill and serve over brie with crackers.

Source: National Watermelon Promotion Board

Audubon Society of Rhode iSlAnd

Unless noted, registration is required for all programs. A complete listing of activities & programs are detailed in the Audubon

Tours and Programs, a free guide to connecting with the natural world. Register online at www.asri.org or

Stormwater Innovation Center Rain Harvest Festival

A Community Celebration of Water, Science, and Art

Roger Williams Park, 1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence, RI

September 24, 2023, 12:00 – 3:00 p.m.

Festival Information at Boathouse Lawn Free and Open to the Public

Join a celebration of water, science, and art at the fourth annual Rain Harvest Festival hosted by the Stormwater Innovation Center and City of Providence Parks Department! This free community event in Roger Williams Park will feature environmental activities and workshops, performing artists and musicians, a rain barrel raffle, games, a food truck, and more! All ages are welcome!

Performances by Rhode Island Black Storytellers (RIBS), artist and poet Sussy Santana and old-time musicians Alpaca Lunch will engage and entertain audiences throughout the festival.

Environmental scientists, educators, and stormwater experts will share their knowledge and encourage public participation with tours of stormwater projects, hands-on workshops, demonstrations, walks, tours, and more! These science-based programs and workshops will be led by experts from the Audubon Society of Rhode Island, The Nature Conservancy, Save the Bay, Narragansett Bay Commission, Groundwork RI, URI Coastal Institute, RI Resource Recovery, 15 Minute Field Trips, Roger Williams Park Botanical Center, Dwell Lab Augmented Reality, and others!

Festival attendees will receive same-day free admission to both the Roger Williams Botanical Center and the Museum of Natural History and Planetarium in Roger Williams Park. The Museum will also offer a special scavenger hunt on September 24 as part of the festival.

A Food Truck will be available near the Boat House for dining convenience in the park.

The City of Providence Parks Department’s investment in over 40 projects to clean polluted stormwater runoff within Roger Williams Park has inspired this yearly event, which highlights the importance of clean water and climate resiliency in our communities.

For more information and a complete schedule of the Rain Harvest Festival performances, workshops, and tours, please visit: https://www.stormwaterinnovation.org/rainharvestfestival

* The festival rain date will be Sunday, October 1, 2023 from 12:00 – 3:00 p.m.

The Rain Harvest Festival is made possible by a Rhode Island Department of Transportation partnership.

About the Artists:

Rhode Island Black Storytellers (RIBS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the awareness, appreciation, and application of Black Storytelling in Rhode Island through performance, as well as through educational and cultural experiences.

Sussy Santana is a poet. Her work explores healing through writing and performance.

She has published three poetry collections: Pelo Bueno y otros poemas. RADIO ESL an audio book, and Poemas Domésticos. Her work explores the bi-cultural identity through text and performance. Her poems have been featured in multiple anthologies and literary magazines.

Alpaca Lunch is a group of old-time musicians based in Rhode Island and Connecticut who gather to play historic folk music using traditional instruments, including fiddle, banjo, and guitar, among others. Their old-time music always lends itself well to times of joyous celebration or commemoration of the changing seasons. Come listen to these musical storytellers as they capture this musical style’s deep Appalachian roots, passed down through generations.

Personal Touch

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September Highlights from the Audubon Society of RI

Autumn is a favorite time at Audubon! Get up close with owls, hawks, and falcons at Raptor Weekend – and join the fun as Audubon kicks off the event with a brewery night. September also brings a raptor photography workshop, birding trips, family programs and more! 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.

Backyard Birds and Blooms: Artwork by Vania Noverca

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, Bristol, RI

September 5 – October 31, 2023; 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

Artist Vania Noverca celebrates the world around us, from our own backyards to the thickets found in local conservation land. She teaches art at the Narrows Center for the Arts in Fall River, MA. Her classes focus on the brightness of blooms and brilliance of birds within their natural habitat. Noverca uses her unique “classroom” to remind students to take time to observe the world around them, discuss native birds and plants, and talk about how we can make a difference by helping to preserve and protect our surroundings.

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

Wednesday Morning Bird Walks

Locations Across Rhode Island: September 6, 13, 20, 27, 2023

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

Locations determined weekly; Every Wednesday through June 2024; 9:00-11:00 am; Fee: $5/member, $10/non-member. Ages: 14+. Register online through the events calendar at asri.org/calendar.

Swallows Spectacular on the Connecticut River

Essex, Connecticut: September 16, 2023; 4:00 – 9:30 pm

A highlight of the birding year in Essex, Connecticut is the Tree Swallow concentrations that can be found each September and October on the river. During fall migration, thousands of swallows congregate on the lower Connecticut River and at sunset settle in on a giant communal roost. The birds come from as far away as 25 miles and converge at dusk, often creating a “ballet” and “funnel” of birds before and as they settle down to roost. Join Audubon on a river journey aboard the RiverQuest to see this spectacular display. Space is limited, so register early! Deadline for registration is Sept 12th. Departs from Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge, 12 Sanderson Road, Smithfield, RI; Fee: $90/member; $100 non-member Other. Ages: 15 and up. Register online through the events calendar at asri.org/calendar.

Fairy Houses for Adults

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, Bristol, RI

September 17, 2023; 10:30 am – 12:00 pm

Fairies aren’t just for kids! Use natural materials such as shells, seeds, moss, and stones to create an enchanting home for magical guests. Fairy houses make a unique holiday or winter decoration and are great for a creative outlet. Program includes all materials needed to complete your magical dwelling. Registration is required. Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, 1401 Hope Street, Bristol, RI; Fee: $25/member; $30/non-member. Ages: Adult. Register online through the events calendar at asri.org/calendar.

Audubon Raptor Photo Shoot

Audubon Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge, Smithfield, RI

September 23, 2023; 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

Calling all photographers! Take advantage of this special opportunity to get up close with a Great Horned Owl, Merlin, Eastern Screech Owl, Red Tailed Hawk, and Barred Owl. Each bird will be presented in a natural setting for that perfect shot. No tents. No crowds. No jostling for position. While you click, a naturalist will discuss each species, their natural history and ecological place in Rhode Island. Space is limited. Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge, 12 Sanderson Road, Smithfield, RI; Fee: $65/member; $75/non-member. Ages: Teen to Adult. Register online through the events calendar at asri.org/calendar.

YARD SALE

Garage Sale on September 9th: 16 Peck Street in Rehoboth, 9am-3pm, Various items.

NARRAGANSETT TERRACE NEIGHBORHOOD YARD SALE: BULLOCKS PT AVE, RIVERSIDE, RI. SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 16th. 8:00am - 12:00pm.

LOST PET

We are looking for our cat, Koa, who has been missing from our Cedar Street home (Rehoboth) sine August 23rd. He is a 9-year-old large light and dark grey colored guy (Maine Coon mix) with white paws and green eyes. Thanks, Mike 508-951-1338.

PETS

Puppies, Purebred Portuguese Podengos medium. Smooth coat, mature with dark yellow eyes. Smart, loyal family happy dogs. Wormed at 3,4,6 weeks old. No known genetic medical problems. 8 weeks old 9/10. Males $500 cash females $600 cash. Contact me only by phone. 508-222-5909 Cathy.

HELP WANTED

Help Wanted: Part-time teller at Community & Teachers Federal Credit Union, 15-20 hours. For more info call 401-438-7788, ask for Joan or Ken.

Help Wanted: Full time position with accounting experience, Community & Teachers Federal Credit Union. For more info call 401-438-7788, ask for Joan or Ken.

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.

Helper needed for non-verbal girl with RETT syndrome. Saturday OR Sunday 1PM-4PM. $20/hour with taxes taken out. Background check required. Barrington 401-289-0127

Exercise helper needed for girl with RETT syndrome. 3:30PM-5:30PM flexible days. Taxes taken out. Background check required. Barrington 401-289-0127.

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 401-2635737.

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.

FOR RENT

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

FOR RENT: Small 2 bedroom in Seekonk: 2 bedroom. Please call John at 508-958-1567.

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 Fall and Winter getaways: Weekly or weekends. Call Joe at 401-439-8089 for information and pictures.

SERVICES

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

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 508840-6611.

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

Junk Removal in Rehoboth, 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. 401-360-5837.

Teachers Wanted!

Teddy Bear Learning & Daycare Center, Seekonk MA. Preschool looking for full time EEC certified teacher; Contact Michelle at 508-336-2244 or teddybearlearning2023@gmail.com.

Twin Oaks Farm & Learning Center: Teachers needed for our Infant, Toddler, Preschool, and Kindergarten rooms. Must have a DEEC certification for Teacher or above. Full time with benefits. We have so many children waiting for placement and need teachers to expand our classrooms. We are a small school offering children "A BETTER BEGINNING" in an enriched environment. We have been a school since 1994, and continue to set standards in our industry through our curriculum and teachers. Come be part of our team of educators. Call 1-508-252-5522 to set up an interview with Ana Neves the Director.