The Seekonk
Reporter
MARCH 2022 Volume 34, no. 3
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2 The Reporter March 2022
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March 2022 The Reporter
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March 2022 The Reporter
Letters to the Editor... The letters in this section and opinion articles do not reflect the views of the staff of The Rehoboth Reporter. It is not our intent to take sides on any issues, but to present all arguments from all points of view. If your point of view is not represented on an issue, it is only because you have not voiced your opinion. Let us hear from YOU!
Our Current Amended Agreement Dighton Rehoboth Regional School District - 1987 Page 9, Sec IX-Withdrawal of elementary grades K-8. A. Vote required
All of the member towns of the District shall resume jurisdiction over the education of pupils in grades Kindergarten through eight, inclusive, residing in their respective towns, if any member town, by vote at an annual or special town meeting, votes to resume jurisdiction over the education of pupils in grades kindergarten through eight, inclusive, residing in such town and follows the procedure hereinafter set forth. Hopefully this will clarify the wording to withdraw our K-8 from the regional district. Mr. Azar continually tries to interject negative aspects in to our efforts to improve the education of our children. “What people will find out is DESE more than likely would not allow it because Rehoboth and Dighton cannot stand separately and afford a school district” Rehoboth has been paying 65% of our regional districts costs for a number of years, Dighton 35%. “I am not sure they fully understand the enormity of their endeavor”. We fully understand our endeavor and are working to make a smooth transition in the process. As for Mr. Jefferson a long standing Dighton School Committee member, “If the Selectmen or citizens wish to dissolve the full district they can work towards that.” He doesn’t know the wording of the regional district agreement? Oh that’s right he was part of a district committee to remove the wording of the agreement to prevent K-8 withdrawal which Rehoboth would not agree to thankfully. Jay Crandall A signatory to the K-8 withdrawal petition to allow the residents of Rehoboth to regain control of our schools. A standalone school system budget is decided by the end of town meeting. Dighton nor DESE can interfere. No more votes will be taken to deny a majority vote of the people!
Water Commissioner Endorsement
To the Seekonk Voters, The Board of Water Commissioners enthusiastically endorse Ms. Dawn Dyer for the open Water Commissioner position in the upcoming election. In preparation to run for this office, Ms. Dyer has attended several Board meetings. She has studied information on the Seekonk Water District, Commissioner responsibilities, and articles from water industry professional journals. Ms. Dyer has shown us that she has the desire and ability to be a good Water Commissioner. We believe that Ms. Dyer will be a real asset to Seekonk Water District and deserves your support. Please vote for Ms. Dyer for Water Commissioner. Regards, Doug Brown, Chairman Joe Chauvin, Vice-Chairman Guy Larrimer, Secretary
www. .com Letters continued on next page...
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Inside This Issue Business Directory......................68 Church News..............................38 Classifieds...............................67 Club Announcements.................29 Events....................................34 Food & Dining..............................62 Home & Garden.........................56 Letters...................................5 Library...................................... Blanding.......................43 Seekonk.......................40 Obituaries................................64 Rehoboth COA............................54 Rehoboth Ramblings..................8 Rehoboth Town News.................10 School News..............................46 Scouts...................................32 Seekonk Human Services..........52 Seekonk Town News...................23 Sour Grapes...............................58 Sports..................................44 State House................................55
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6 The Reporter March 2022
The Rehoboth/Seekonk
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School Committee Candidates
I had as I promised several Seekonk concerned residents to pull papers & intended to run for one of the two School Committee seats available come April. I disclosed to those I made this promise that I would back out if Kyle Juckett & Andrea Rosseter ran for these positions as I thought they were the best candidates who believe Government Schools should be the “Best in Education” and have a plan to make that happen. A school system that teaches each individual student the way they learn with a curriculum designed to promote maximum success for every graduate to go on to be knowledgeable, responsible, confident, kindhearted, hardworking American patriots. Kyle & Andrea have been working tirelessly behind the scenes without the need for accolades or applause only having the best interest of students, parents, teachers, and taxpayers uppermost in their minds. They are not inclined to complain as their intent is always to fix things, to get the job done with an open mind, ears that listen well & to be voices for those that feel muted by the system they fund. Historically speaking most school committee members have been born or raised here, have businesses in town, or do business in town, have joined the PTA or other committees & have deep roots in town. They have warm hearts & good intentions & they try their best to be their best & do their best, yet their practices have left many students, parents, teachers & taxpayers feeling unwelcome, excluded & estranged. Kyle Juckett & Andrea Rosseter have a fresh new approach to leadership. They are the fresh new faces of authority with the capacity for fiscal responsibility, a propensity for open communication & fancy a partnership with parents, students, administrators, teachers & the school committee. They do not speak in whispers, they roar evidence-based information supported with facts & knowledge gained through research. Our quaint & lovely town is in need of new leaders who are strong constitutionally minded, well informed free thinkers who have a warrior spirit & that is exactly what Kyle & Andrea will bring to our schools & community as a whole. Sincerely, Lori Saudade
Seekonk Elections
Just around the corner the Town of Seekonk will be holding its annual Town Election. April 4, 2022, may sound far away but it will be here before we know it. It is very exciting to see four new candidates running for two open seats on the School Committee. Congratulations and best of luck to all of them. Our town government remains ours to control. Whether based on experience, attendance, or participation we as citizens of Seekonk are responsible for the next level of electoral service. Your vote is an important one. Hopefully you have had opportunities to speak with or interact in some way with our four candidates. The most important question is the one you ask yourself. Are we going to settle for the manner and direction of the current School Committee or are we going to elect people who are interested in parental inclusion, educational material, true open communication with two-way dialogue, fiscal accountability (meaning open budget information to include money movements) and finally following the By-Laws and Home Rule Charter of the Town of Seekonk? I have been critical of the leadership of the School Committee and their manner of business. I have watched parents being disrespected albeit with a smile but none the less disrespected. This is one thing we cannot blame on COVID and it cannot be masked any longer. This is our School System. When the school district uses the huge amounts of money contributed by the town, we expect results. Not just building results but real results in accounting for our tax dollars, state aid, federal aid, and debt dollars. Up until now expenditures are completely darkened to taxpayers and this must stop. For this election I am supporting Andrea Rosseter and Kyle Juckett. Here’s why I believe you should too. Each person possesses a will to open their hearts and ears to not only students but parents too. Each person has a teamwork attitude to work with the other members of the School Committee to open doors to fresh ideas and most important, a partnership with parents to help bring our Administration team to a more approachable level. Being elected to a School Committee carries a budget beyond belief that we need to know about on a more frequent basis in detail. This is a huge responsibility, but it is long overdue. While we may not be able to direct spending, we have every right to know about it without hesitation or delay. A new School Committee team can do this for us. This is not about friendships on the Committee. It is about electing people who will stand by their integrity to do the job correctly even if they are alone in their thinking. Leadership is a quality that someone can possess or obtain through life experiences. It is with this I truly believe in Andrea Rosseter and Kyle Juckett. I am hoping you will join the many that believe the same. On April 4, 2022, when you cast your vote for School Committee please vote for Andrea Rosseter and Kyle Juckett. Please make the change we need. Thank you. Doreen Taylor
March 2022 The Reporter
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Rehoboth Ramblings by Leslie Patterson
In Search of Superb Owls
Like many people, I enjoyed the typo in which the words “Super Bowl” got turned into “Superb Owl”. My interest in birds is much greater than my interest in football (which is zero), though I was rooting for Cincinnati, where I spent a large chunk of my young adult years. Ah well. The great horned owl that I’ve heard in recent winters seems to have moved along, perhaps to the golf course nearby. Last year his calls were so loud and close that I almost expected him to ring the front door bell. Other bird news this winter is about a pair of visitors from the North, two snowy owls, visiting Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge in Middletown and getting lots of local press. Since the parking lot at Sachuest is pretty small, it was impossible to find a place to park on Presidents Day, not surprising but irritating, since the little auxiliary lot was closed off too. I guess they thought too many people would disturb the owls. Fortunately, the parking lot at nearby Second Beach is huge and uncrowded in late winter, making the beach a great place for a walk even if there were no owls to see, just a couple of surfers in wetsuits. The spires of St. George’s in the near distance make for a scenic, almost English-looking backdrop to the sea. Nor did I drop everything to rush to Dighton Rock to see the Steller’s sea eagle on its unexpected and brief visit there in December. Last I heard, this avian celebrity, a native of northern Japan and the coast of Russia, was hanging out around Reid State Park in Maine. So far from its home, does the bird wonder “how did I get here?” The photos showed a very impressive and massive bird, much bigger than the bald eagles that were also in one of the pictures. The best view I’ve had of a bald eagle was on a trip to Ohio a few years ago when we encountered one making a meal out of roadkill on a country road, not its most dignified pose. Right now, before yet another dreaded snowstorm, there is a flock of robins hopping around in the backyard with their feathers all fluffed up. I suppose it’s pointless to open the window and call out, “I told you to go south for the winter!” The bird feeders have been very popular with a variety of birds and I can identify a number of them anyway. One day I did a double-take when I noticed something large perched on the bird feeder pole and saw that it was the hawk that has staked out territory in this neighborhood. He or she apparently thinks the bird feeder is some sort of McDonald’s fly-through for raptors. Talk about fast food! We believe it’s a red-shouldered hawk from its appearance and screechy calls. Not sure why a raptor would make such a constant racket. Doesn’t it warn off its prey? I finally bought a squirrel-proof bird feeder and it seems to work. It’s a slightly complicated feeder called “Squirrel Buster” (with a cartoon on the box of squirrel shedding a tear). The tube for bird seed is covered by metal mesh, which the instructions refer to in rather morbid manner as a “shroud.” It is designed so that if something heavy, i.e. a squirrel, tries to perch on it, the casing comes down and closes up the feeding portals and the squirrel gives up. Being a softie, I still put out some food for the squirrels, but we seem to have reached a détente on who is eating what and where. As any serious birder can tell, I am not a serious birder, just someone who enjoys watching birds. This year maybe we’ll get over sooner to the heron rookery in the wetlands behind the fence at the Home Depot in Seekonk. We were a little late learning about this popular location for bird-watching in early spring. Right now there appears to be a pair of bluebirds checking out the bird house at the edge of the yard. It’s a bit much to hope that they are the proverbial bluebirds of happiness, but we could all use some of that right now. At any rate, nesting birds are a happy sign of spring to come.
March 2022 The Reporter
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Rehoboth Town News From the Clerk
Laura Schwall
Hello All ~ Wow, time sure flies when you’re having fun!!! The Rehoboth Town Clerk’s Office has been busy processing 2022 census data, dog tag licenses, election nominations, updating Reprecincting data, submitting FY 2023 budgets, while also preparing for the upcoming 3-5-22 Bristol-Plymouth District-Wide Election and 4-522 Annual Town Election. It sure made the time pass quickly! To those of you submitting your census documents and for registering your dogs
so promptly ~ thank you. We mailed 5,324 census forms in January and received and processed 3,594 households to date. We are still looking for 1,730 census forms to be returned (Precinct 1=464; Precinct 2=372; Precinct 3=467 and Precinct 4=427). If you did not send in your 2022 census, please forward as soon as possible. A second mailing has gone out to those residents who we do not have phone numbers and our Registrars, Helene and Jenn, have started calling the remaining residents that have listed phone numbers. Census forms were due January 31st and Dog Licenses will be due by April 1st.
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March 5, 2022 ~ BristolPlymouth Regional Technical School District Building Project Vote And Rehoboth DebtExclusion Ballot Question
I’m sure you already heard that the Bristol-Plymouth School Committee voted on December 21, 2021 to hold the B-P District-Wide Ballot Vote on Saturday, March 5, 2022. The polling hours are from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Six hours) at the Francis Farm Community Complex – Museum Building – 27 Francis Farm Road (off of County Street). You should have already received your 3-5-22 Election Mailer, which includes a letter from the Board of Selectmen detailing the upcoming B-P District-Wide Election and Debt-Exclusion question. The mailer also provides a diagram of the Francis Farm Complex so voters can become familiar with the parking locations and layout of the new centralized polling location. All four precincts will be voting at the Francis Farm Complex – Museum Building. As you know, all Rehoboth voters have been voting at a centralized polling location since June 30, 2020. I understand some voters are concerned about all precincts voting in the same polling location. However, most of the surrounding communities handle their elections in a centralized polling location, which is usually a school facility. In Rehoboth, all precincts voted at the old COA Building for the June 30, 2020 postponed Annual Town Election, then, after the devastating COA fire, all precincts voted at the Palmer River Elementary School Gymnasium for the 9-1-2020 Primary and 11-3-2020 Presidential Election. On April 6, 2021, all precincts again voted at one polling location ~ Dorothy L. Beckwith Middle School for our Annual Town Election. Then, on November 1, 2021, the Rehoboth Board of Selectmen voted to designate the newly acquired Francis Farm Community Continued on page 12....
March 2022 The Reporter
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The Reporter March 2022
Complex “Museum” building as Rehoboth’s “Centralized Voting Location”, rather than holding our elections at a local school gymnasium due to student safety concerns raised by our local school committee. The new Francis Farm Community Complex affords us the opportunity to queue voters in a covered pavilion area, if needed, out of the weather elements and the museum building is the same size, if not slightly larger than the Palmer River and Beckwith gymnasiums. For those concerned about huge voter lines at the centralized polling location, the 11-3-2020 Presidential Election, which was held at the Palmer River Gymnasium saw shorter lines than the 2016 Presidential Election where voters voted at separate precincts. In 2016 lines were out the door and down the parking lot of all three polling locations (Town Hall, COA and South Fire Station) all day long. We are hoping you enjoy voting at the new and hopefully final centralized polling location for the Town of Rehoboth. Francis Farm is a beautiful campus! We look forward to seeing you on March 5th B-P Election between 9AM3PM. If you are unable to make it to the polls on Saturday, you may request an absentee ballot either to be mailed (As Soon As Possible - please scan and e-mail or drop off your application in the ballot box outside of Town Hall-340 Anawan Street/Route 118) or you may vote in person during regularly scheduled Town Hall Rehoboth Planning Board hours up until Noon on Friday, March 4th (Monday-Thursday 8-4; 5 YEAR TERM Friday 8-Noon). Absentee Ballot applications are located in the front and back cover of your election mailer. Thank you for voting. 20 Years in Landscape Construction | Owner Final voter registration to be eligible to vote in the upcoming 24 Years in the Military | Retired SFC Military | March 5, 2022 B-P District Wide Ballot Vote was Friday, February Earned 5 Meritorious Service Medals | 11, 2022. Prospective voters are reminded that they may check Currently working as Rehoboth’s Director of Veteran Services | their voting status by calling our office or checking online at: Goals are Keeping within the MGL Rules and Regulation with both the https://www.sec.state.ma.us/VoterRegistrationSearch/MyVoterstate & town when working on the Planning Board |Keeping Rehoboth a RegStatus.aspx Farming Community and maintaining the esthetics of Rehoboth for years If you would like to learn more about the building project, to come | Enhance the Landscaping around Rehoboth and maintaining please visit the Bristol Plymouth Regional Technical School webclean water for our residents in the future site @ https://www.bptech.org/msba If you were unable to attend the Tuesday, December 14 informational meeting at Francis Farm Community Center (Francis Hall Building) a video of the presentation is available on RehobothTV-On Demand @ Endless Possibilities h t t p s : / / w w w. r e h o b o t h t v. o r g / ondemandPlayer?ShowID=3774 820 TAUNTON AVE(RT. 44) | SEEKONK, MA 02771 Also, please check the Selectmen’s letter included in the 3-5 and 4-5, 2022 Election Mailer that arrived in every household by February, 26th.
Vote on April 5th, 2022 & Reelect John “Jake” Kramer Ret. SFC Party: Republican
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SCOTT PETERS, PROPRIETOR
The Annual Town Election for the Town of Rehoboth will be held on Tuesday, April 5, 2022 with the polls open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. – All four precinct locations will be voting at one centralized polling location: Francis Farm Community Complex (27 Francis Farm Road) – Museum building. If you would like to review the facility and layout of the polling location, please refer to the election mailer referenced above or visit the Town Website at: https://www.rehobothma. gov/home/news/rehoboth-changes-itscentralized-polling-location-francis-farmcommunity-center-museum Positions to be elected on the ballot for 2022 are Moderator (one for 1 year), Board of Selectmen (one position for 3 years), Assessor (one for 3 years), School Committee (one for 3 years), Housing Authority (one for two years), Planning Board (two for 5 years
March 2022 The Reporter and one for one year), Park Commission (one for 5 years), Constable (three for 3 years) and Water Commissioner (two for 3 years). All candidates for the upcoming April 5, 2022 Annual Town Election have either filed nomination papers, which were certified by our office or went through the Republican or Democratic Caucus process. As a result, we will have three contested races on April 5, 2022 Annual Town Election ballot: Housing Authority-2 year term; Planning Board-5 year term and Water Commission-3 year term. Candidates running for office on the upcoming April 5, 2022 Annual Town Election are Incumbent Bill Cute-Moderator, Incumbent Skip Vadnais-Selectman, Stephen Green-Assessor, Incumbents Ken Abrams, Bill Dalpe and Mike Deignan-Constable (3-positions available), Joe Collins and Bill Costa for Housing Authority (1-position available), Jeff Reber for School Committee, Mary “Lissa” Solas for Park Commission, Lynne Ferreira, Stacy Haskell and Incumbent Jake Kramer for Planning Board-5-year term (2-positions available); Lenny Mills, Jr. for Planning Board-1-year term and Incumbent Joe Nunes for Water Commissioner-3 year term along with Bill Costa, Art Gareau and Katy Rourke Wilson also for Water Commissioner (2-positions available). The final voter registration date, to be eligible to vote in the Annual Town Election, is scheduled for Wednesday, March 16th from 8 AM to 8 PM at the Town Clerk’s Office. Prospective voters are reminded that they may also register to vote online at www.RegisterToVoteMA.com , by calling the Town Clerk’s Office to request a Mail-In voter registration form, or download a form @ http://www.sec.state.ma.us/ele/elepdf/ Voter-reg-mail-in.pdf
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Annual Rehoboth-Seekonk Rabies Clinic Saturday, March 12, 2022
Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, we unfortunately missed our past few Rabies Clinics with Seekonk. Thankfully, due to the virus situation improving, Seekonk has graciously offered to hold the Rabies Clinic at their new Public Safety Building (Fire Division), which is located off of Route 44 by the blinking yellow light: 500 Taunton Avenue, Seekonk, MA. The clinic will open at 9:00AM and close at 12:00-Noon on Saturday, March 12, 2022. The Rehoboth Town Clerk’s Office will be there to renew your dog’s 2022 Dog License. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Rehoboth Town Clerk’s Office at 508-252-6502 X-3109, 3112, or 3110. Please Note: New location – the rabies clinic will no longer continued on next page...
WILSON for Rehoboth
Absentee Ballot Requests
Applications for absentee ballots were available as of January 4th and may be obtained from the Town Clerk’s Office or online @ https://www.sec.state.ma.us/ele/ elepdf/absentee/English-Absentee-BallotApplication.pdf . An absentee ballot may only be obtained by written request and with the voter’s original signature. Filing deadline to apply for a mailed absentee ballot request will be 5:00 PM on the fourth (4) business day before Election Day: • Tuesday, March 1, 2022 for the March 5, 2022 Election • Wednesday, March 30 for April 5, 2022 Annual Town Election All completed absentee ballots must be returned to the Town Clerk’s Office/outside Ballot Drop Box by no later than 3:00 PM on Saturday, March 5, 2022 for the B-P DistrictWide Election and no later than 8:00 PM on Tuesday, April 5, 2022 for the Annual Town Election. “In-Person” at Town Clerk Office-340 Anawan Street absentee ballot request and vote deadline: Bristol-Plymouth District-Wide Election remains 12:00 PM on Friday, March 4, 2022, day before the March 5, 2022 election. Annual Town Election remains 12:00 PM on Monday, April 4, 2022, day before the April 5, 2022 election.
WATER Commission
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The Reporter March 2022
be held at the Seekonk Highway Garage on Lake/Route 44, we will be holding the clinic on 3-12-2022 at the Seekonk Public Safety Building–Fire Division–500 Taunton Avenue (Route 44) Seekonk. We look forward to seeing you, your dogs and cats. Thank you for keeping our pets safe by having them inoculated.
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Dog Licenses For 2022
2022 Dog Licenses are now available and may be obtained in-person, by mail, online at https://permiteyes.us/rehoboth/publichome.php for renewal licenses OR for a new dog, which we do not have on file, you may register online at https://permiteyes.us/ rehoboth/applyforlicense.php . You may also drop off your dog licensing documents at the Town Hall drop box (340 Anawan Street). An application for dog license renewal was included in your 2022 Census mailer and directions for using the new Online Dog License program was also included in the census mailer. If you need help with the online dog licensing, please view the directions online @ https://www.rehobothma.gov/town-clerk/pages/dog-licenses or contact our office – 508-252-6502 X-3109 or X-3112. The licensing fees are as follows: Male or female dog $20.00, female-spayed or male-neutered $10.00. If paying by check, please make sure it is made payable to “Town of Rehoboth”. Dog licenses are due annually by April 1st. Whether renewing online, via mail, drop box, or in person, dog license applications must be accompanied by a current year rabies certificate (with a vaccination date covering the current licensing year-May 1st or later) and proof of spay or neuter [if applying for the $10 licensing fee] unless we already have your documentation on file in the Clerk’s Office. If you are unsure, please give the office a call, and we can tell you how up-to-date our information is. Dog owners should note that the license(s) will not be returned unless a stamped, self-addressed envelope is included with postage (the current postage is 71¢ for one dog tag, 93¢ for two dog tags and 1.15¢ for three tags). As of this writing, we have processed 752 of the 2,000+ dog licenses, which is 314 more than last year at this time ~ thank you all for submitting so quickly. We hope you like the new online permitting dog licensing program. continued on page 16...
VOTE Jeff Reber for DR School Committee I’d like to introduce myself. My name is Jeff Reber and I’m running for Dighton-Rehoboth school committee in the upcoming April 5th election. In May of 2019 I moved to Rehoboth along with my wife, Aimee and stepson, Cole. I hope to serve as a voice for the community in response to the needs of our school system.
• Back to basics – return focus to the students’ educational experience • Respect the taxpayer – be fiscally responsible with the school budget • Community focus – parents, teachers, and students should be working together to improve the school system • Excited to work with the new superintendent and bring a fresh perspective to the school district • Supporter of smaller government to represent the unique needs of our community.
Endorsed by the Rehoboth Republican Town Caucus Aimee & Jeff Reber
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March 2022 The Reporter
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The Reporter March 2022
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Reminder, all residents 70-years old or over do not need to pay the $10 or $20 yearly dog licensing fee. As I’m sure you remember, I submitted an article at the May 8, 2017 Annual Town Meeting (Article 15) requesting Town Meeting vote to accept MGL CHAPTER 140 SECTION 139(c), which states “No fee shall be charged for a license issued under this section for a service animal as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act or regulations promulgated thereunder. No fee shall be charged for a license for a dog owned by a person aged 70 years or over in a city or town that accepts this provision”. Town meeting did approve the acceptance of MGL Chapter 140 Section 139 (c), which permits the Town Clerk’s Office to waive dog licensing fees for service animals and for dogs owned by any Rehoboth resident 70 years of age and older. Proof of rabies vaccinations for each dog and proof of the dog owner’s age (70 or older) is required. As per Town Counsel, this does not include Kennel Fees.
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Business owners whose business certificate will expire between January and June of 2022 should have received a reminder for renewal. The renewal fee is $50.00 (certificate renewal is good for four years) and checks should be made payable to “The Town of Rehoboth”. You may also renew using a credit/debit card either online (web address below) or schedule an appointment with the Town Clerk’s Office. Before a new business can be registered within the town, business owners must first contact the Zoning Officer – Bill McDonough at 148 Peck Street in order to have the location and/or type of business approved. Business license forms and complete process details can be found on the clerk’s website @ https://www.rehobothma.gov/town-clerk/pages/businesscertificates Finally, if you have any questions on any of the above items discussed, please feel free to contact the Town Clerk’s Office at 508-252-6502, X3109, X3112 or X3110. Lynn, Logan, Odete and I wish all residents a Happy St. Patrick’s Day and we hope to see many of you at the upcoming March 5, 2022 B-P District-Wide Election and April 5, 2022 Annual Town Election – details above. Please keep warm and safe ~ spring is coming soon! I look forward to speaking with you in April. Please mark your calendars to vote at the March 5th and April 5th Elections at Francis Farm. Thank you ~ please stay well! Laura
Rehoboth Land Trust’s Annual Meeting Hosts Pollinator Systems Expert
The Rehoboth Land Trust’s Annual Meeting will be in person, in the spacious Goff Hall on Thursday, April 7, at 7:00 pm. Chairs will be spread apart, and masks are optional. After a few minutes of business, speaker Dr. Robert GeGear will be presenting a slideshow. Dr. GeGear, a Professor of Biology at UMass Dartmouth, has developed a citizen scientist project in which you can participate by taking photos of bumblebees and butterflies on plants. These can help his team develop strategies for restoring native plantpollination systems. Over the past two decades, human activity has significantly degraded the integrity of pollination systems across New England. Many of our historically abundant native flowering plant and pollinator species are now locally extinct and others soon to follow if we do not take immediate conservation action. The loss of plantpollinator systems poses a significant threat to the diversity and functioning of natural ecosystems due to the fundamental role that ‘pollination products’ play in supporting wildlife throughout the food web. However, we currently lack the ecological data needed
March 2022 The Reporter to develop effective conservation and restoration strategies for pollination systems at risk. In this presentation, Dr. Robert GeGear will discuss how his award-winning Beecology citizen science project at UMASS Dartmouth is utilizing conservation-focused community members throughout New England to crowdsource the collection and the implementation of research data to restore imperiled bumblebee and butterfly pollination systems. He will also highlight the Beecology ‘eco-technology’ that was developed with Worcester Polytechnic Institute, (WPI), collaborators to aid in the collection, storage, visualization, and communication of species-level ecological data on plant-pollinator systems. His talk will conclude with examples of how Beecology has significantly advanced bumblebee pollination system conservation efforts over the past 2 years and how you can become involved! Contact Carol Entin if you have questions. carolentin@comcast.net or 508-415-6065
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Rehoboth Endorsed Candidates
By Joe Siegel The town’s Republican and Democratic committees have endorsed their slates of candidates for the April 5 town election. The endorsed Republicans, as voted on at the February 16 caucus: • Frederick E. Vadnais, Jr., Board of Selectmen • Stephen E. Green, Board of Assessors • Kenneth E. Abrams, Constable • William A. Dalpe, Constable • Michael P. Deignan, Constable • Jeffrey K. Reber, D-R School Committee • Joseph P. Collins, Housing Authority • Mary F. Solas, Park Commission • Stacy J. Haskell, Planning Board (5 yr.) • John David Kramer, Planning Board (5 yr.) • Leonard Mills, Jr., Planning Board (1 yr.) • Joseph A. Nunes, Water Commissioner • Arthur A. Gareau, Water Commissioner The endorsed Democrats, as voted on at the February 18 meeting: • Housing Authority - William A. Costa, Sr. • Moderator - William J. Cute, Jr. • Water Commissioner - William A. Costa, Sr. • Planning Board - Lynne M. Ferreira Contact Paul Jacques, Chair Rehoboth DTC at (508) 922-4394 or via email DemCommittee02769@gmail.com
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Rehoboth Police Donate Money to Veterans
By Joe Siegel The Rehoboth Police Department donated money raised from their “No Shave November” event to the American Legion Post 302. Police Chief James Trombetta told the Board of Selectmen the department raised $1700. Another $100 was contributed by Trombetta’s dentist. The goal of “No Shave November” is to draw attention to cancer patients who often lose their hair. Participants donate money they would typically spend on shaving and grooming to local organizations. Selectmen also recognized the retirement of Deputy Chief Mark Rossi, who served in the police department for 34 years. “You’ve done a wonderful job,” Selectmen chairman Skip Vadnais told Rossi on Tuesday. “He’s always been a team player,” Trombetta said of Rossi. “He’s been a tremendous help to me.” Rossi will be staying with the department until August.
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The Reporter March 2022
Selectmen Appoint Geraldine Hamel as Public Health Nurse
By Joe Siegel The Rehoboth Board of Selectmen appointed Geraldine Hamel to serve as the town’s Public Health Nurse Monday. In 1990, Hamel graduated from Rhode Island College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing. Hamel obtained a Masters degree in Nursing from the University of Massachusetts – Dartmouth in 2010. Hamel worked as a staff nurse at Rhode Island Hospital from 1987 to 1991 and Sturdy Memorial Hospital from 1998 to 2007. More recently, Hamel worked at the Covid vaccination clinic at Anawan Pharmacy from March 2021 to the present. Hamel also worked as a community VNA in Attleboro and served as Director of Nursing at Next Step Health Care/ Attleboro Health Care from June 2020 through March 2021. Hamel’s appointment will last from February 28 through June 30.
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School Committee ViceChairman Resigns
By Joe Siegel Thomas O’Connor, who had served as Vice-Chairman of the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Committee, has resigned. O’Connor said he was leaving to spend more time with his family. “The truth is almost every meeting conflicted with something within my personal schedule,” O’Connor wrote in a letter to Dighton Town Clerk Mark Pacheco. “While there is never a good time to step down from an elected position, I do believe now is the best possible time to do so,” Connor added. “We’ve approved a tentative budget for next year and have successfully finished our Superintendent search, setting the District up for growth and positivity moving into the FY’23 school year.” “On behalf of the committee, I thank Tom O’Connor for his service to the DightonRehoboth Regional School District,” said Chairman Aaron Morse. “His reasons for stepping down are understandable and commendable and we wish him and his family well.” “Tom served our students, our educators, our school district, and our community with honor, integrity, and dedication,” said Dighton Selectman Brett Zografos. “His contributions are very much appreciated.”
March 5 Special Election for Bristol-Plymouth Project
By Joe Siegel Voters will be heading to the polls on Saturday to approve funding for a multi-million dollar building project for Bristol-Plymouth Regional Technical School. The polling hours are from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Francis Farm Community Center - Museum Building - 27 Francis Farm Road. There are two ballot questions. The first asks for approval of the vote taken by the Bristol-Plymouth Regional Vocational Technical District to authorize the borrowing of $305, 567, 432 to pay costs of designing, constructing, originally equipping and furnishing a new District high school to be located at 207 Hart Street in Taunton. The second question asks for a debt exclusion, which would require the town to be exempt from the provisions of Proposition 2 and a half for the purposes of paying for the bond issued in order to fund the BristolPlymouth Regional Vocational Technical School District building project. The Massachusetts School Building Authority provided authorization for a Project Funding Agreement for the Bristol-Plymouth project. The agreement includes reimbursement of 62.25 percent of eligible project
March 2022 The Reporter costs up to a maximum reimbursement amount of $125, 569, 759 toward construction of a modern Bristol-Plymouth school facility. A multi-year feasibility study had been conducted. “The town does not have the money to pay for this project,” Rehoboth Selectman Michael Deignan said last December. “Based upon current enrollment, our annual assessment for this new building would be $550,000 a year which we do not have the capability of paying within the levy limit of the town.” The funding for the Bristol-Plymouth building project has to win a majority vote from all of the member communities including Berkley, Bridgewater, Dighton, Middleborough, Raynham, Rehoboth and Taunton. Rehoboth taxpayers would be required to contribute to the project funding if the ballot item is approved. “The building is a 50 year old building and it has shown its age,” explained Bristol-Plymouth Superintendent Alex Magalhaes. “It’s going to need extensive repair.” “Repairs that include new HVAC systems, new roof, new windows, steel upgrades, ADA upgrades, and plumbing repairs are all needed to bring the schools up to code and will cost the district millions of dollars without adding any educational upgrades or additional square footage,” said Tina Stanislaski from HMFH Architects, the firm working on the project. There are also security issues due to the construction of outbuildings on the campus. “There’s not one main building,” Stanislaski noted. “Basically to do a repair of everything wrong with the building and bring it to today’s codes, we’re looking at a project that’s well over $100 million.” In addition, the school is severely overcrowded and lacks the technology and equipment needed for today’s learning environments, there are inadequate numbers of science labs and special education classrooms, and vocational shops and labs are severely undersized, according to Stanislaski. The original cost for the project was substantially more, said Chad Crittenden, the owner’s project manager with Boston-based PMA Consultants. The preliminary design cost was $325 million. The final submission to the MSBA was $305 million.
am not sure they fully understand the enormity of their endeavor.” Even if the withdrawal from the district is approved, it will take a full year to take effect. A new school committee would need to be elected to develop a budget. Selectmen cautioned the petitioners about moving too fast. “Let’s do it methodically,” said Selectman Dave Perry, noting the whole matter could end up in court if any mistakes are made.
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Selectmen Call for Special Town Meeting for K – 8 Withdrawal
By Joe Siegel The Rehoboth Board of Selectmen have called for a special town meeting regarding a withdrawal of Kindergarten through 8th grade from the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District. The citizens’ petition was submitted with the intention of including the article on the May 2020 Annual Town Meeting warrant. Because of the Covid-19 outbreak, the 2020 town meeting was delayed. Last fall’s town meeting was cancelled. Selectman Michael Deignan said the withdrawal was a “grave and important issue” which warranted its own meeting. Deignan said withdrawing K through 8 “doesn’t dissolve the district” but instead returns local control to the town of Rehoboth. “The 10 citizens behind the petition have been meeting regularly and my administration has responded to their inquiries in a prompt manner,” Dighton-Rehoboth Superintendent Anthony Azar said Tuesday. “I
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The Reporter March 2022
DESE Says Both Towns Have to Vote on Deregionalization By Joe Siegel
The Rehoboth Board of Selectmen’s plan to withdraw Kindergarten through 8th grade from the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District may be more complicated than first thought. According to an undated letter by Jay Sullivan from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), both member towns need to approve a withdrawal of K through 8 from the regional school district. Sullivan wrote any amendment to the regional school district agreement “is subject to the approval of the Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education and would not be in effect unless approved by the Commissioner.” To that end, if a vote to withdraw should be approved at any town meeting, Department staff would require that an amendment be submitted for the Commissioner’s consideration, reflecting the FULLY INSURED
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changes needed as a result of the withdrawal of grades K-8, and any other changes that may be required that would need the approval of both member towns’ appropriating authorities.” “The Department would also need assurance that each town is ready and able to provide a K-8 education to its resident students,” Sullivan continued. “The Department would require that each town submit a long range plan to document how it will serve and support its elementary and middle school population, and likewise, would require the regional school district to provide information to document how such withdrawal may affect its (Grade) 9 -12 student population and regional operations.” Sullivan’s opinion is incorrect, according to Rehoboth Selectman Michael Deignan: “Unlike most regional districts, our regional agreement contains specific language allowing communities to assume local control over their K-8 schools. (DESE) already approved the regional agreement as it exists today with the withdrawal language it contains.” A citizens’ petition asking for the withdrawal to be placed on the town warrant was submitted in 2020 but delayed because of the coronavirus pandemic. On February 14, selectmen called for a special town meeting. Deignan noted the withdrawal was a “grave and important issue” which warranted its own meeting. “The 10 citizens behind the petition have been meeting regularly and my administration has responded to their inquiries in a prompt manner,” Dighton-Rehoboth Superintendent Anthony Azar said on February 15. “I am not sure they fully understand the enormity of their endeavor.” Even if the withdrawal from the district is approved, it would take a full year to go into effect. A new school committee would need to be elected to develop a budget. “The regional agreement has a number of outdated issues in it,” said Dighton-Rehoboth school committee member Glenn Jefferson. “If the selectmen or citizens wish to dissolve the full district they can work towards that.” Dighton Selectman Brett Zografos told the Reporter the issue of de-regionalization was never discussed by his board. Zografos said a committee had been formed to study the issue, but no recommendations or reports were ever submitted to the board.
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By Joe Siegel A drinking water sample from the water supply well at Rehoboth Town Hall was found to contain Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), according to the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The sample was obtained and taken to a lab for analysis last September. “The sum of the PFAS6 compounds is more than 10 times the reportable concentration,” the report said. “As defined in the Massachusetts Contingency Plan, an Imminent Hazard may be present when the detected concentration in a private drinking water supply well is 10 times the Reportable Concentration.” Selectman Jim Muri said bottled water has been issued to all employees. Muri noted a Licensed Site Professional (LSP) will be hired to manage, supervise or perform the necessary response actions at the site. The land and building at 340 Anawan Street was purchased for $995,000 after voters approved a warrant article at last May’s Town Meeting. The building opened to the public on January 4.
March 2022 The Reporter
It’s A Birthday Blizzard of Giving! For our Rehoboth families facing challenging times The Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Inc. has expanded its mission...to include Birthday Gifts to support our Rehoboth Children. Please visit our website www.rehobothblizzardofgiving.org for more information. If you need support to celebrate your child’s birthday, please use the form available on the website- two weeks’ notice is required for assistance with birthday celebrations so please provide ample notice: We need: Parent/Guardian’s name, address, email, phone Child’s name, gender, birthdate, general interests This information can be emailed to Mrs.mbrawley@gmail.com Or mailed to Maureen Brawley, 35 Reynolds Ave., Rehoboth, MA 02769 If you have any questions, please call 508-252-4867 The Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Inc. is committed to serving the community by providing Christmas gifts, holiday support, and special occasion needs to Rehoboth residents who are facing challenging times in their lives. Donations can be made out to: “Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Inc.” and mailed to: Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Attn: Cathy Edington, 61 Reservoir Ave., Rehoboth, MA 02769 Maureen Brawley, Cathy Edington, & Colleen Mc Bride Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Inc.
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The Reporter March 2022
After Devastating Fire, Local Businesses Help Anawan Brewing
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By Joe Siegel An early morning fire destroyed a commercial plaza at 7 Park Street on February 13. The 60,000 square foot wood-frame building housed several businesses, including Duvally Construction/Heritage Reality, Anawan Brewing Company, and House of Fitness. Two additional units were under construction to house a restaurant. The building was unoccupied at the time and no injuries were reported. The fire is currently being investigated by the Rehoboth Fire and Police Departments along with Massachusetts State Fire Marshal’s Office. The building was considered a total loss. ‘The first unit was on scene in four minutes, the first engine was on scene in less than seven and the first tanker was on scene in eight,” Fire Chief Frank Barresi told the Board of Selectmen. “We never lost water throughout the course of that fire.” Only four buildings in Rehoboth have sprinkler systems, which is “not uncommon in other parts of the state,” Barresi noted. “There’s no guarantee a sprinkler system would have saved that building but there’s a real good chance it would have held it in check long enough for us to get there and put it out.” A GoFundMe campaign to benefit Anawan Brewing Company has raised over $35,000 as of March 1. Other local businesses in Massachusetts and Rhode Island also pitched in to help. Attleboro’s Skyroc Brewery donated the proceeds of sales of their special Anawan Rock beverage to help Anawan Brewery to rebuild. Narragansett Beer donated 100 percent of its net sales at its Providence brewery to Anawan. “We wanted to send a huge THANK YOU to Narragansett Beer for being an amazing neighbor and raising $9,669 in order for us to recoup some of the losses we faced on the 12th. We also wanted to send a BIG thank you to the MA & RI community for coming out yesterday and showing support for us. We said it before and we’ll say it again - YOU ALL ROCK! This is a dark time for us but support and love like this, is the light at the end of the tunnel that is getting us through these times,” read a message posted February 22 on Anawan Brewing’s Facebook page.
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March 2022 The Reporter
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The Seekonk Scene Greetings from the Town Clerk’s office. I am glad to announce that the Town Hall is back open to the public. It’s certainly nice to see people coming in again. Let’s hope it stays that way. We are busy processing census forms and dog licenses. If you have not yet sent in, or dropped off your census, please do so as soon as possible as it helps keep our records current.
Annual Town Election
We’ve also been busy taking in and certifying nomination papers Florice Craig for the candidates running in the Annual Town Election, which is right around the corner, April 4, 2022. The polls will be open from 7:00AM to 8:00PM and all voting takes place at the Seekonk High School gymnasium, 261 Arcade Ave. Please take the time to vote as your vote and voice make a difference. It is important to support the candidates, these folks have taken the time to pull nomination papers and run for an office. They care about our community and want to work hard to maintain the wonderful town of Seekonk. The last day to register to vote for this election is March 15. If you want to register to vote you can go online to www.registertovoteMA.com , or come into the Clerk’s office. Absentee ballot applications are available on line at www.seekonk-ma.gov under Dept. Town Clerk/ downloadable forms. Or request one by calling the Town Clerk’s office 508336-2920. You must be a registered voter to get an application. Please allow enough time to have your application processed, have the post office mail it to you and time for you to return your ballot. Please note that ballots must be received back in at my office by the close of polls on Election Day. You may mail your ballot to: 100 Peck St. Seekonk, MA 02771 or drop it in the drop box outside town hall. When marking your ballot please remember to fill in the oval completely for the candidate you are voting for. Do not use check marks or X’s and please use a black pen or felt marker. Continued next page...
DAWN DYER FOR WATER COMMISSION I’m writing to introduce myself. My name is Dawn (Perry) Dyer. I grew up in Seekonk and graduated from Seekonk High in 1983. I moved away in 1985 and returned to Seekonk 15 years ago. I am running for a seat on the Water Commission. I have attended a few meetings and I am impressed by the work the commission does to ensure our infrastructure delivers clean, safe water to our residents. I would appreciate your vote on April 4th.
PLEASE VOTE ON APRIL 4TH
VOTE
NELSON ALMEIDA BOARD OF ASSESSORS
April 4th, 2022 • 7am to 8pm At Seekonk High School
BEST OF LUCK TO ALL CANDIDATES Paid for by Nelson Almeida
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The Reporter March 2022
• BOARD OF ASSESSORS- For three years vote for ONE: Nelson Almeida • BOARD OF SELECTMEN- For three years vote for ONE: Justin Sullivan, Candidate for re-election • HOUSING AUTHORITY- For five years vote for ONE: OPEN *Please note there is an official write-in campaign for this seat by the incumbent: James Tusino • LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES- For three years vote for THREE: Mike Durkay, Candidate for re-election; Elizabeth Ann Caldwell, Candidate for re-election; Alyssa Richard, Candidate for re-election • PLANNING BOARD- For five years vote for ONE: Bruce Hoch, Candidate for re-election • PLANNING BOARD- For three years vote for ONE: David Roderick, Candidate for re-election • SCHOOL COMMITTEE – For three years vote for TWO: Emily Field, Kyle Juckett, Meaghan Mahoney, Andrea Rosseter • WATER COMMISSIONER – For three years vote for ONE: Dawn Dyer * Please note there is an official write-in campaign for this seat by: Jeffrey Starr Mararian
ELECT ANDREA ROSSETER
TO SEEKONK SCHOOL COMMITTEE • Back to a basic knowledge driven educational policy • Highlighting student’s individual aptitude sets to close the confidence gap • Promoting a courteous and compassionate approach to public engagement • Community wide comprehension, of budget policy, and the roles of government • Viewing regulations, with an eye towards Seekonk, making them their own PROVEN LEADERSHIP THAT LISTENS. Please support me with your vote, on April 4, 2022 Paid for by Amanda Rosseter
Reprincting in Seekonk
Every ten years, after the federal census is sent out, State Law (MGL 54 § 2) requires each city and town to create new precinct boundaries. The law requires that voting precincts established by a city or town meet the following requirements. Each new precinct must be composed of compact and contiguous territory. Precincts must be bounded by the center-line of streets or other well-defined boundaries, such as streams or other bodies of water, railroad tracks, power lines or other visible geographic figures No precinct may contain more than 4,000 residents. Every precinct population must be within five percent of the average precinct population for that town. Due to the results of the federal census, we learned several areas in town had to change precincts in order to keep our precinct population under the 4,000 number. The precincts affected were that some households changed from precinct TWO (2) to precinct ONE (1) and that some households changed from precinct THREE (3) to precinct TWO (2). A letter was sent out to those households who changed precincts. This office worked in conjunction with the State and Town Planner John Aubin, to complete this task. The town was very close to adding a fifth precinct but we were just under the wire. I am assuming in ten years after the 2030 federal census Seekonk will have grown enough to add a fifth precent. If you have any question concerning what precinct you are in, please do not hesitate to call the Town Clerk’s office. 508-336-2920.
Count of Residents by Precinct (Figures come from state computer asasof 2/24/22) Count of Residents by Precinct (Figures come fromsystem State computer system of 2/24/22) Precinct Active voter Inactive voter Non-Voter Grand Total 1 2442 356 645 3443 2 2807 301 613 3721 3 2413 431 600 3444 4 2420 347 599 3366 Total 10082 1435 2457 13974 Rabies Clinic Rabies The rabies clinic will be held on Saturday March 12,Clinic 2002. Hours 9AM-12PM. It will be held at The rabies clinic will be held on Saturday March 12, 2002. Hours the Public Safety Building Fire Division. The attending veterinarian will be Dr. Truesdale. The 9AM-12PM. It will be held at the Public Safety Building Fire Division. vaccination cost will be $15 cash only. If you bring proof of a current rabies vaccine your animal The attending veterinarian will be Dr. Truesdale. The vaccination will be eligible for a$15 3-yearcash rabies only. vaccine.IfIf you not haveproof proof ofof a current rabies vaccine cost will be youdobring a current rabies your animal will be eligible for a 1-year vaccine. You will also be able to drop off dog vaccine your animal will be eligible for a 3-year rabiesyour vaccine. If license formnot withhave proof ofproof rabies and Neutered andvaccine spay dogs are $10, animal unneuteredwill or you do of payment. a current rabies your be dogs eligible 1-year will also drop off spay are $20.for Youra license will vaccine. be processedYou the following weekbe and able mailed to to you. If you youra dog dog license form with proof of rabies and payment. need license form you can go to: www.seekonk-ma.gov look under forms andNeutered documents, andClerk spay dogs are $10, or spay Town down loadable form, dog unneutered license. Please remember Massdogs Generalare Law $20. requiresYour all license will be processed the following week and mailed to you. dogs be licensed annually. Tags expire annually on March 31, 2022.
If you need a dog license form you can go to: www.seekonk-ma. gov look under forms and documents, Town Clerk down loadable Spring date has been set for May 9, 2022. It willGeneral be at 261 Arcade Ave, High all form,Town dogmeeting license. Please remember Mass Law requires School startingannually. at 7PM. JustTags a reminder we have our newon haveMarch electronic31, voting dogsauditorium be licensed expire annually 2022. keypads, otherwise knownmeeting as “clickers”. Eachhas registered voter a clicker check-in. Spring Town date been setreceives for May 9, upon 2022. It will These clickers a reliable Ave, radio frequency and are secure. To vote, youstarting simply pressatthe7PM. be at 261useArcade High School auditorium Just on a reminder wematches haveyour ourdesired newanswer, have YES electronic keypads, button the keypad that or NO. You voting will have 30 seconds otherwise known as “clickers”. Each registered voter receives to vote, your vote will be sent automatically, an OK will appear on the display, confirming a clicker check-in. These use a reliable frequency receipt. Youupon may change your vote as longclickers as it is within those 30 seconds,radio only your last vote and are secure. To vote, you simply press the button on the keypad counts. At the end of meeting there will be poll workers located at the exits, with boxes, to that matches your desired answer, YES or NO. You will have 30 return your clicker. Please your do not take them home you,automatically, it won’t work outsidean theOK venuewill seconds to vote, vote will bewith sent and will be costly for us to replace. appear on the display, confirming receipt. You may change your vote as long as it is within those 30 seconds, only your last vote th and the first day of Spring Take heart Spring is almost Savingthere Time iswill March counts. At the endhere. of Daylight meeting be13poll workers located th the 20 exits, boxes, isatMarch . Havewith a great month. to return your clicker. Please do not take them home with you, it won’t work outside the venue and will be costly for us to replace. Take heart Spring is almost here. Daylight Saving Time is March 13th and the first day of Spring is March 20th. Have a great month.
March 2022 The Reporter
Questions for Candidates Thursday, March 10th
Seekonk TV9 will be hosting its annual “Meet the Candidates” forum Thursday, March 10th. The only contested seats will be on School Committee as we have four candidates running for two seats. Incumbents have chosen not to run.
Seekonk Animal Shelter News
Lulu is a 6-year-old spayed female Belgian Tervuren. She is up to date on vaccines. Her owner passed away, so she came to us. She is shy when she first meets new people, but once she knows you, she’s your best friend. Lulu needs to be the only dog and no cats. The perfect home would be quiet and no children. Lulu loves walks on the trails but doesn’t like busy roads. For information on Lulu, and our other available pets, please call us at 508-336-6663, or visit us at 100 Peck St.
Meet Lulu
Seekonk Community Preservation Committee Seeks New Applications Following successful purchase of the Medeiros Family Farm by the Town of Seekonk at the November 8, 2021 Seekonk Town meeting, the Seekonk Community Preservation Committee is now seeking applications for new projects in the areas of Creation of affordable housing and Recreation facilities and the Preservation of open space and Historic sites. The projects are funded through a combination of a local tax surcharge and a State distribution of funds from filing fees at the State Registry of Deeds. All projects begin with approval from the Seekonk Preservation Committee and must meet specific requirements established by State Law. Once forwarded to the Town through a warrant article, it is the town voters who decide on approval of the application. Over 20 projects have come before voters and all have been approved. Some of the projects include: Seaconke Area Trails (land behind Town Hall), Construction of a Habitat for Humanity House on Gude St., restoration of exterior elements at the Seekonk Commons and the very popular Seekonk Playground adjacent to Town Hall. Projects are usually introduced by Town boards or committees but may also be introduced by individuals. Further information can be found on the Town web site or by contacting John Alves - 508-212-8351 or Susan Waddington srwaddington@comcast.net
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The Reporter March 2022
Seekonk Memorial Day Parade
The Seekonk Memorial Day Parade is being held on Saturday, May 28th, rain or shine. Join us as we honor members of our military who are either missing or who have lost their lives while serving in the armed forces of the United States. All Participants will muster at 9:00 am at the Seekonk High School – 261 Arcade Ave, Seekonk, MA. The parade will step off at 10:00 am sharp and will follow the same route as in previous years, ending at the Middle School on Newman Avenue. A ceremony will be held at the Seekonk Veterans Memorial Park immediately after the parade. Please contact James LaFlame, Director of Veterans Services at 508-336-2940 or jlaflame@ seekonk-ma.gov if you would like to participate or have any questions.
Take A Walk With Us, Seekonk Land Trust
The Seekonk Land Conservation Trust has scheduled events for March and April. We hope you can join us for these activities and to introduce you to the Seekonk Land Trust’s new Stewardship Coordinator, Paul Miller. Paul comes to us after having worked many years in the Florida Dry Prairie, headwaters of the Everglades, and for other Land Trusts in western and coastal Maine. He has a strong background in conservation, wildlife ecology, stewardship and land management and is implementing a new computerized management tool called ‘Landscape’ to assist these efforts. His presence will assist the Land Trust in managing and maintaining trails, working with volunteers and participating in outdoor education and community affairs. Paul will be the featured speaker at the Land Trust Annual Meeting on April 6 at Seekonk Library which all are welcome to attend.
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Winter’s Last Gasp, Osamequin Farm, 80 Walnut Street (off Prospect Str)
Join us on this last day of winter and enjoy a walk in the woods with Paul Miller and Tom Webb. Paul is the new Stewardship Coordinator for Seekonk Land Conservation Trust (SLCT) and Tom is SLCT Board President. Test your ability and skill at recognizing trees by bark and shape; look for bird cavities and nests, and explore ■ Automobile insurance the woodland trails behind Osamaquin Farm finding evidence of how plants and ■ Home insurance animals survive throughout the winter. Andrew Jencks will be on hand to provide a historical perspective on the Osamaquin property. Family friendly, easy trail less than 2 miles of walking. Wear boots for mud/snow, ■ Automobile insurance use tick repellent, and bring your camera and binoculars! Meeting point and parking: Meet by the large barn behind the homestead, ■ Home insurance park on the right side of Walnut Street As background to provide some context, Osamaquin Farm’s name comes from ■■Automobile insurance Automobile insurance the “great leader,” Massosoit Ousamequin of the Pokanoket nation, and their mis■ Home insurance Tammy Weaver ■ Home insurance sion at the Farm is to share their historic land by hosting a cooperative of small scale farmers, public gatherings, and educational opportunities for the community. The Your Local Agent farm has been in the Jenck’s family for over a century, but the original farm was pur65 FALL RIVER AVE STE B chased by the Carpenter family in the mid-1600s. In addition to raising sustainably Tammy Weaver REHOBOTH, MA 02769 grown crops, Osamaquin hosts educational events and seasonal gatherings, and Tammy Weaver TWEAVER2@FARMERSAGENT.COM so is sharing their space with us in the community. Your Local Agent Your Local Agent
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April 6, Wednesday, 6:30 pm
Annual Meeting of the Seekonk Land Conservation Trust
The featured presentation will be from Paul Miller, Seekonk Land Trust’s new Stewardship Coordinator. Paul will demonstrate a new powerful computerized man65 FALL RIVER AVE STE B agement tool called ‘Landscape’. This program will identify Land Trust holdings and assist management efforts that promote stewardship in Seekonk. REHOBOTH, MA 02769 Seekonk Library meeting room, 6:30 pm, all welcome Call 508.372.9534 today! TWEAVER2@FARMERSAGENT.COM Call 508.372.9534 today! Let helphelp you getyou smart about your coverage options. Letmeme get smart about your coverage options. http://agents.farmers.com/tweaver2 Restrictions apply. Discounts may vary. Not available in all states. See your agent for details. Insurance is underwritten by Farmers Insurance Exchange and other affiliated insurance companies. Visit farmers.com for a complete listing of companies. Not all insurers are authorized to provide insurance in all states. Coverage is not available in all states.
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Restrictions apply. Discounts may vary. Not available in all states. See your agent for details. Insurance is underwritten by Farmers Insurance Exchange and other affiliated insurance companies. Visit farmers.com for a complete listing of companies. Not all insurers are authorized to provide insurance in all states. Coverage is not available in all states.
Let me help you get smart about your coverage options. Restrictions apply. Discounts may vary. Not available in all states. See your agent for details. Insurance is underwritten by Farmers Insurance Exchange and other affiliated insurance companies. Visit farmers.com for a complete listing of companies. Not all insurers are authorized to provide insurance in all states. Coverage is not available in all states.
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Restrictions apply. Discounts may vary. Not available in all states. See your agent for details. Insurance is underwritten by Farmers Insurance Exchange and other affiliated insurance companies. Visit farmers.com for a complete listing of companies. Not all insurers are authorized to provide insurance in all states. Coverage is not available in all states.
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In January, Angels’ Care Closet announced their “Share the Love” drive to provide low-income students with food during February break, as free school breakfast and lunch would not be provided. The Seekonk High School Portuguese Club reached out and wanted to help! They took our wish list and setup a collection box at school and shared our mission through their social media. In addition to collecting many of our wish list item from their peers and families, they also came to the storefront on a Saturday morning and assembled the bags filled with snacks and easy-to-make meals for distribution. Thanks to the help from the Seekonk High Portuguese Club and many local residents, we were able to provide 5 days of easy breakfasts, lunches, and snack items to sustain our young friends during school break. We were able to complete 89 bags of the 100-bag goal and passed them out to local students the week of Valentine’s Day. Thank you to everyone who helped make this possible and participated in “Sharing the Love” for those in need. We will do another “Share the Love” drive for Spring Break for anyone interested in helping. If you have questions or would like to keep up with future events, please email angelscarecloset@gmail.com or find us on Facebook at Angels’ Care Closet.
March 2022 The Reporter
Grandfather Remembered with 100 Birthday Cakes
Jodie Sousa wanted to honor her Grandfather’s birthday, so she donated 100 birthday cakes in his memory. Pictured: Gerry McCabe, Frank Gallishaw, George Sousa, Diane Fox, and Gary Cartwright. Jodie Sousa was missing her grandfather. The two shared a February birthday and always celebrated them together, but her grandfather passed away in the last year. She decided to do something special for his birthday to honor his memory and her love for him. She decided to donate 100 birthday cakes kits to mark the occasion. Each kit contains a box of cake mix, a tin of frosting, birthday candles and balloons, all packed into a foil cake pan. (Everything but the oil and the eggs!) Jodie posted of her intentions on Facebook and soon was receiving donations from people in town. Some donated ingredients, some donated funds, but they all chipped in to help Jodie meet her goal. To celebrate her grandfather’s birthday, Jodie donated fifty cake kits to Angel’s Care Closet and fifty cake kits to Doorways Food Pantry. We at Doorways are sure that her grandfather is looking down and smiling. Thank you, Jodie, for remembering those who would otherwise have to do without. And happy birthday to you, too.
Fighting Hunger in Seekonk
Stop & Shop has been promoting donations to the Doorways Food Pantry for the benefit of Seekonk families in need. Customers have donated thousands of items. Pictured: Pamela Myers, Paris Reynolds, Maria Andrade, and Sue Rosa (all of Stop & Shop). The Newman Avenue Stop & Shop in north Seekonk has been a strong supporter of the Doorways Food Pantry for many years, and this February they solicited help from their customers to strike a blow against food insecurity. The store placed non-perishable food items at all checkout registers with signs inviting customers to make a purchase to benefit the local food pantry. In a few short weeks, Stop & Shop customers donated over 1,000 cans of fruits and vegetables, almost 500 boxes of mac’n’cheese, and hundreds of other assorted food products. These donations will help fill cupboards throughout Seekonk during the long winter months. Over seventy families rely on Doorways on a regular basis, and Doorways relies on people like Stop & shop and their customers. We thank you all!
PLEASE VOTE APRIL 4TH! To Learn More About Kyle Scan the QR Code kyleforseekonk.com| kyle@kyleforseekonk.com |
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PAID FOR BY THE COMMITTEE TO ELECT KYLE JUCKETT
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The Reporter March 2022
School Superintendent to Unveil Budget By Joe Siegel
Seekonk Public Schools Superintendent Rich Drolet make a presentation of the FY’ 2023 budget on February 28. “I’m waiting on projections from the Town Administrator on how the town might be able to support the schools next year,” Drolet said at Monday’s school committee meeting. “We did engage in zero based budgeting internally this fall and winter which was helpful in reviewing how all of our lines are being expended and also preparing for next year.” The budget documents will be made available beginning March 9 by contacting the school department. On March 14, the school committee will hold a public hearing and discussion of the budget. On March 21, the committee will vote to approve the budget. The Spring Town Meeting is scheduled for May.
Drolet said any new positions would likely be for the Seekonk Transitions Academy, a new special education program for 18 to 22 year-olds. Drolet is also looking to institute new Pathways programming at Seekonk High School and more support for special education. Drolet also acknowledged National School Counselors Week. “I would like to take a minute to recognize the critical work that our school counselors do in all of our schools supporting our students,” Drolet said. ‘They’re always working tirelessly to meet the needs of the students and the families above all else.” The district is also conducting a family survey for the Vision of a Graduate committee. “The goal of this committee is to develop a list of skills and competencies that we want every student to possess upon graduation from our wonderful schools. This will be a guide to help develop our next Strategic Plan as well as implementing curriculum,” Drolet explained. The surveys will be sent out this week to secondary students and their families. The deadline to complete the survey is March 1.
Seekonk Schools Rescind Mask Policy
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By Joe Siegel Students will no longer be required to wear face coverings in Seekonk Public Schools starting on February 28. The School Committee met on February 14 and voted to rescind their mask policy. Last week, the state of Massachusetts dropped the mask mandate for schools. Education Commissioner Jeff Riley said school districts had the choice to require masks for their students. “An exception, at this time, is that all staff and students must continue to wear masks on all buses,” Superintendent Rich Drolet wrote in a letter to families and staff. “This is a federal mandate and will remain in place until we are notified otherwise. In addition to school buses, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health still requires masks to be worn in all healthcare facilities, including school nurse’s offices. Further, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education/Mass Department of Public Health is requiring that if an individual tests positive for Covid-19 and returns to school after a five-day isolation and/or quarantine period, they must continue to wear a mask when around other people for five additional days, except when actively eating, drinking, or outdoors.” “We expect some staff and students will choose to keep wearing masks, and we of course will maintain a culture of care and support for everyone regarding their decisions as we go through this transition,” Drolet added.
Club
March 2022 The Reporter
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News & ANNOUNCEMENTS
SeekonkAmerican Legion Post 311
351 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA 02771• 508-336-9822
St. Patrick’s Breakfast on Sunday, March 13th
Come on down to the Seekonk American Legion for an all you can eat St. Patrick’s breakfast on Sunday, March 13th put on by the Sons of the American Legion. The $10.00 donation per person breakfast includes scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, homefries, toast, orange juice and coffee. Tickets are available in advance at the Legion and at the door. Serving from 8 am to 11 am. The Legion Post is located at 351 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA. For additional information please call 508-336-9822. • Karaoke with RAM ~ Wednesdays from 7:30 – 10:30 pm • Ricky V ~ Thursdays from 7 pm to closing Hall Rental: Newly Renovated, 200 person capacity Contact Bob Reed for Information at 508-336-9822
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1776 Fashion Show with Historic Tales
The Rehoboth Minutemen & 13th Continental Regiment Is Excited to Present:1776 Fashion Show with Historic Tales Sunday, April 3, 2022, 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
Goff Hall 124 Bay State Road Rehoboth, Massachusetts 02769 Limited FREE Seating Reservations Required Call Cathy Potter at 508-252-3682 to reserve your spot today! We would like to graciously thank our sponsor for this even: Rehoboth Cultural Arts Council
Seekonk Lions Club’s Tenth Annual Doug Allan Memorial Fishing Tournament
Are we getting ready for the spring season? It will be only a few more weeks before it is time to break out the fishing poles. Ready to catch some trout, win some great prizes and have fun? The Seekonk Lions Club’s Tenth Annual Doug Allan Memorial Fishing Tournament will be on Patriots Day Monday, April 18, 2022 at the Old Grist Mill Pond RT 114A in Seekonk 9:00am until 11:00am. Open for all children through high school in the area. Ten years! Image that! A great milestone that started out with 30 kids back in 2012. A small Fishing Derby at the Grist Mill Pond. This derby thorough out the years has grown with many more kids and parents being a part of a fun morning filled with anxiety, caffeine, hot chocolate and excitement! Since 2018, the American Legion Post 311 have sponsored our banquet providing the hall for anglers to sit down and relax while enjoying Chick-fil -A sandwiches with cookies, chips and drinks. We would like to see all our fellow anglers back this year and some new ones as well. We will have a great time with great fishing with some great prizes as always! Any questions or if you would like to help/donate or volunteer please email seekonkfishingtournament@yahoo.com. Remember there is no charge. Just come with your fishing poles, that special bait you may have, and catch some fish!
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VOTE David Roderick Seekonk Planning Board
My name is David Roderick and I am formally running for the 3yr Planning Board Position.
I believe in: • Following MA General Laws and our towns bylaws as it pertains to Seekonk • Protecting the environment • Ensuring we have the right infrastructure • Doing what’s right for the people and to try and balance development against services and our Master Plan Please vote for me on Election Day ! Paid for by David Roderick
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The Reporter March 2022
PAYING CASH FOR GOLD, SILVER & STERLING U.S. and Foreign Coins Old Comics and Sports Cards Old Watches and Collectibles Diamonds and Jewelry
508-336-9103 113 Taunton Ave Seekonk, MA Same Location for 40 Years
WEXLER'S
In Memory of our Pal and Fellow Rehoboth Lion Russell F Latham, You Will Be Missed.
In 1967 Russell Latham joined the Rehoboth Lions Club. Over the next 55 years, he became one of, if not the, key member of the organization. He presided as president of the club for two, one-year stints and held many district level positions including Zone chairman, Region chairman, and Massachusetts District 33 Cabinet Secretary/ Treasurer. For the Rehoboth club, he founded and organized the annual Citizens Recognition Night, was our pit master for the Chet Munroe Chicken BBQ, worked with DR, Bristol Agricultural, and Bristol - Plymouth Regional high schools to organize scholarships from the Lions clubs. He is the only Rehoboth Lion to receive the prestigious Lions Club International Melvin Jones Honor twice. He put together the preliminary budget for the club every single year, handled the clubs email list which included sending announcements, at least once per month, to each of our 54 members. He handled our monthly updates that appeared in the Rehoboth Reporter and many more tasks that are impossible to be performed by any single Lion. The work he did will have to be divided among many current members of the club. The mission of the Lions Club is to serve others and there isn’t a finer example of community service than the tireless work performed by our brother, Russell Latham. Words cannot begin to express the respect and admiration that our members held for Russell. When a new member joins the Rehoboth Lions Club, they are given a nickname. He was affectionately known as Egghead, owing to his academic background and intellect. We will miss his tireless work ethic, his institutional knowledge of our club and his wit. We are saddened by the loss of this beloved servant from our midst and pray for him and his family. May he rest in peace.
Rehoboth Antiquarian Society Members Only Event: Bookbinding for Beginners Friday, March 25th, 2022 6:30-8:30PM EDT
Goff Hall, 124 Bay State Rd, Rehoboth Are you a big reader? Do you like arts and crafts? Have you ever held a book in your hand and wondered how it got to be like that? Do you like history? The Rehoboth Antiquarian Society is hosting a night in Goff Memorial Hall to explore the art and history of bookbinding. Come for an informative discussion, demonstration, and a chance to try out some basic bookbinding techniques for yourself! No previous experience is required! The night will start with the history of bookbinding and examples of different styles of book creation from simple stitched bindings to elaborate covers. This will include a few examples from the Carpenter Museum collection. The discussion will focus on hand bookbinding. We will walk through sewing techniques, what makes a book a book, and what has, or hasn’t, changed through the years. This event will include a demonstration of the basic steps of bookbinding, from finding the best tools, picking materials, cutting and organizing paper, to sewing the pages together. After the demonstration, members will get to try their hands at some of the techniques and styles for themselves. We will walk you through the basic steps and you might even get to take a little something home with you! Registration is required. Reserve your spot at https://bookbindering-ras.eventbrite.com. This is a free members-only event to thank our supporters. Not already a member of the Rehoboth Antiquarian Society? Individual membership starts at $15.00. Join today by mail or online: www. rehobothantiquarian.org/join
March 2022 The Reporter
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East Providence/Seekonk Rotary Club to Host “Financial Basics for the Class of 2022” Event
High school students invited to attend Zoom event featuring branch managers from local financial institutions The Rotary Club of East Providence/Seekonk will host a “Financial Basics for The Class of 2022” event via Zoom to teach high school students what they need to know about checking and savings accounts, the importance of good credit, budgeting strategies, loans and investments, and more. The event, which is free and open to any high school student or parent, will be held on Tuesday, March 22, 2022 from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. A panel of local financial industry professionals will lead the presentation and answer questions, including William Francis, financial advisor with Edward Jones Investments in Riverside; Scott Haggerty, assistant vice president/branch manager of The Washington Trust Company in Rumford Stephen Henderson, assistant vice president/branch manager of Navigant Credit Union in Riverside; and David Kent, vice president/banking office manager of Webster Bank in Riverside. “We are so fortunate to have these professionals as members of our Rotary Club,” states Betty Galligan, immediate past president of The Rotary Club of East Providence/Seekonk. “Their collective knowledge is a great asset to any student who is graduating from high school and starting out on their journey toward financial independence. It’s so important to have this kind of advice and guidance at a young age, to help build credit, manage frivolous spending, and put extra dollars away for a rainy day. We’ve assembled an awesome panel that is giving of their time and knowledge – we’re grateful to bring this opportunity to the Class of 2022.” To register for the East Providence/Seekonk Rotary “Financial Basics for the Class of 2022” event, please visit https://epseekonkrotary.org/ or contact Lori DiPersio at (401) 578-5317 or ldipersio24@gmail.com. A Zoom link will be sent to all registrants prior to the event date. Questions for the panelists may be submitted to Lori in advance.
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Hornbine School Museum to Celebrate Frances Magan Jone’s 100th Birthday in June
Frances Magan Jones helping her great granddaughter at the “Ink Feather Pen” table.
The Hornbine School Museum plans to celebrate the 100th birthday of our dear friend and volunteer, Frances Magan Jones, at our 2nd Open House on June 26th. Frances attended our one room schoolhouse and has lived in the Hornbine neighborhood most of her life. We invite anyone interested in history to attend. Frances will be available to tell stories and answer questions about old local traditions such as the Hornbine Clam Bakes, Hornbine Church Suppers, Hornbine School days and much more! Stay informed about the Hornbine School Museum happenings in the Rehoboth Reporter. Like and/ or Follow The Hornbine School Museum on Facebook. We also have a web site at https://hornbineschool.tripod. com/
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The Reporter March 2022
scouting Around William Pezzulli Reaches Eagle Scout Rank
Troop 1 Seekonk is proud to announce that scout Will Pezzulli has reached Eagle Scout, the highest rank in Scouts BSA. Will’s Eagle Project involved two separate projects for the Seekonk Public Library. The first part of Will’s project involved building two rolling platers so that the library could get their plants off the floor and position them in front of the windows. The second part of Will’s project was building 4 Leopold benches so that patrons could sit outside on nice days. Will and his volunteers spent five hours on a
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Saturday and successfully completed both projects. Lowes, Home Depot and Walmart were all generous donors to this project. The library posted Will’s picture and information about the benches on their Facebook page and Will has received many thank you comments from the Seekonk community. During his time with Troop 1, Will earned 26 Merit Badges and was inducted into the Order of the Arrow. He also attended Camp Yawgoog each summer from 2016-2021 (excluding 2020 due to COVID). He enjoyed the white water rafting and canoeing trips, and was an avid camper. He participated in every annual bike trip, participated in community service activities, and lent a hand to other scouts completing their Eagle Scout projects. Will was also a Bear Scout and a Cub Scout in Pack 2 Seekonk, having first joined scouts in 2012. At Seekonk High School, Will was active in the audio-visual club. He graduated in June 2021. Will is currently employed at Lowe’s in Seekonk and is considering a career in the military or National Guard.
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Will Pezzulli with his bench at The Seekonk Library
Seekonk Scouts Go Snowshoeing Scouts from Troop 1 and Troop 9 Seekonk took advantage of the fresh snowfall after January’s blizzard and went snowshoeing. We first learned about different kinds of snowshoes and practiced some skills in the Seekonk Meadows before heading out on a 3-mile hike in the trails behind the library. By the end of the day, we all enjoyed the afternoon spent in nature and even completed the Snow Sports Merit Badge.
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Snowshoeing the trails behind the library
March 2022 The Reporter
To find out more about Scouting in Seekonk: Visit our website at www.Troop1Seekonk.org Email us for more info:
Scouts BSA Troop 1 Seekonk (for Boys ages 11-17): Troop1SeekonkMA@gmail.com Scouts BSA Troop 9 Seekonk (for Girls ages 11-17): Troop9SeekonkMA@gmail.com Cub Scout Pack 88 Rumford/Seekonk (for Boys & Girls, Grades K-5): Pack88.Cubs@gmail.com
Pack 1 Rehoboth Celebrates 70 Years!
In February the Cub Scouts of Pack 1 Rehoboth celebrated their 70th anniversary. Pack 1, based at the Rehoboth Congregational Church, was chartered in 1952 and has been in continuous operation for 70 years. This makes it one of the oldest Cub Scout Packs in the region. This extraordinary achievement was commemorated at Pack 1’s annual Blue and Gold Dinner in a night filled with good food, excellent entertainment in the form of magician Matt Roberts, and award presentations. One prestigious award presented was that of the “Pack 1 70th Anniversary Scout”. An award plaque was presented to a deserving member of each grade-level den. Qualification was based on good attendance, enthusiasm, behavior, and adherence to the Scout Oath and Law. Essentially, these award winners were identified as Pack 1’s model scouts. They are: John Cameron - Bears (3rd Grade); Dane Medeiros - Webelos (4th Grade); Bobby Amaral - Lions (Kindergarten); Logan Luedke - Wolves (2nd Grade) & Jace Cameron - Tigers (1st Grade) Also, as part of the ceremonies, special patches to be worn by all members of the Pack were presented. The first was the “70” Veteran Unit Bar. This can only be worn by Scouts in Troops or Packs that have been continuously chartered for at least 70 years. Very few Cub Scouts will ever have the privilege of wearing this. The second patch was the “2021 Journey to Excellence - Gold”. This is awarded to Packs who obtain the highest scores in recruitment, member retention, outdoor activities, rank advancement, and community service. Wearing these two patches on their uniforms is something the scouts of Pack 1 can definitely be proud of. Overall, Pack 1 enjoyed their 70th anniversary and already look forward to their 75th in 2027!
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6th Annual Cookies & Cocktails Event! Thursday, March 10th
Attendees will enjoy savory hors-d’oeuvres, tasty Girl Scout Cookie creations, and the opportunity to bid on silent auction items. Tickets to this event are $60 per person. The evening will be emceed by the one and only Mario Hilario WJAR—a treat in itself! (Please note this is a 21+ event.) The event is scheduled for Thursday, March 10th from 5:30pm to 8:30pm at the Crowne Plaza (The Atrium) located at 801 Greenwich Ave, Warwick, RI. Free ample parking is available for your convenience. Purchase tickets and learn more about the event at gssne.org/cookiesandcocktails!
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The Reporter March 2022
Events & Activities Specializing in Southeastern MA and RI Commercial and Residential Real Estate since 1964 1460 Fall River Avenue, Suite 11 Seekonk, Massachusetts 02771
Tel: (508) 336-4000 Diane F. Aubin / Principle Broker 401-524-5877 daubin@aubincorp.com
9th Annual Blood Drive in Memory of Bob McKenna (Reschedule ) Saturday, March 12th 9:00 - 3:00
Due to the blizzard back in January, the 9th annual RIBC blood drive in memory of Bob McKenna has been rescheduled at Seekonk High School. The turnout has been wonderful every year and hopefully that trend continues. Blood donations are desperately needed. Please take advantage of this opportunity to donate close to home. Appointments can be made on the RI Blood Center website (ribc.org) or by contacting Karen McKenna at kmckenna10@aol.com. Bob was an active member of the Seekonk community during the 20+ years that he lived there. He was also a lifelong blood donor. His family is certain that he would be thrilled that this event is held in his honor. They look forward to seeing everyone on the 12th.
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Rehoboth DTC Caucus MADEMS Convention Delegates Election
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Rehoboth - The Rehoboth Democratic Town Committee (RDTC) will hold a Virtual Caucus on Saturday 12 March 2022 10:00 AM to elect delegates wishing to attend the MADEMS Convention in June being held at the DCU Center in Worcester, MA. Purpose of the Convention is to endorse Candidates for Statewide Office, including Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Secretary, Attorney General and Auditor; ahead of the Democratic Primary this September. Those registered Democrats from Rehoboth interested in attending the MA DEMS 2022 Convention as a delegate should FREE Amish, Apartment-size, Wallcontact the Chairman of the Rehoboth Democratic Town ComREMOVAL Hugger, Rocker Recliners, Lift mittee, Paul Jacques, at (508) 922-4394 or via email DemCom& Free Chairs and also Gliders! mittee02769@gmail.com. Once contacted a link to the Virtual DELIVERY Caucus will be sent. Available for immediate delivery! Also, please consider joining us on 12 March 2022 to hear from Shop at Home • Free Estimates • Over 70 Years Experience Democratic Candidates running for Statewide Office that may be in attendance at the Virtual Caucus to speak about their respecHours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm; Sat. 9-2 tive Candidacy. For more information please contact the RDTC Furniture via email DemCommittee02769@gmail.com, or “like” us on FB @ and Upholstery RehobothDTC.
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March 2022 The Reporter
Save The Date: Seekonk DTC Caucus
The Seekonk Democratic Town Committee will hold its annual caucus on Saturday March 12, 2022 at 2:00 PM via Zoom to nominate delegates to the Massachusetts Democratic Caucus to be held on June 3, and June 4, 2022 at the DCU Center in Worcester. Any registered Democrat, living in the town of Seekonk, who is interested in attending the state caucus as a Democratic delegate is invited to attend.
Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/84957687114
Sincerely, Katie Panciotti Chair Seekonk DTC, (508) 718-734
Dighton Welcome Revolutionary War Camp
Saturday April 30th, 2022
This event will be held at the Winslow / Davis Museum 1217 Williams Street Dighton, Massachusetts from 1-4 P.M. The demonstration will be presented by the 13th Continental Regiment/ Rehoboth Minutemen. This event is Free and open to the public. It is sponsored by Dighton- Massachusetts Cultural Arts Council
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The Reporter March 2022
PACK 1 REHOBOTH CUB SCOUTS
etti Dinner Spaghfundraiser SUNDAY, MARCH 13 • 4:30-6:30 Drive-thru take-out event! Family-style meals, hot and ready to enjoy in your home! Everyone in the community is welcome to join in!
Vino's Cafe, 503 Winthrop St, Rehoboth
CHICKEN PARMIGIANA
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for 2 $35
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THE REHOBOTH MINUTEMEN & 13TH CONTINENTAL REGIMENT IS EXCITED TO PRESENT:
1776 FASHION SHOW with
HISTORIC TALES
ORDER AT PACK1REHOBOTH.ORG
Sunday, April 3, 2022 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm Goff Hall 124 Bay State Road Rehoboth, Massachusetts 02769 Limited FREE Seating Reservations Required Call Cathy Potter at 508-252-3682 to reserve your spot today! We would like to graciously thank our sponsor for this even: Rehoboth Cultural Arts Council
ORDER DEADLINE: WED, MARCH 9
Sit-Down Chicken BBQ Fundraiser & Raffle Raffle to Benefit Family of Jay Szczoczarz | Raffle donations appreciated! Date:
Sunday, May 22nd
Time: Place:
1:00 PM Seekonk Gun Club 61 Reed Street, Rehoboth, MA 02769
Facebook: @RehobothPeopleHaveaHeart
$20 Per Person For tickets, information or to make a donation, please call Rob Johnson at (508) 243-4160 or message us on Facebook
Website: rehobothpeoplehaveaheart.com
March 2022 The Reporter
25th Annual
Taste of the Town Presented by
Seekonk Lions Club and Chris Gasbarro’s Fine Wine & Spirits
Patriots Day Monday, April 18 5:00PM – 8:00PM The Ballroom at Won Sports 1314 Fall River Ave. Seekonk, MA 02771 Taste the fare of great restaurants in Seekonk and surrounding communities Wine, beer and spirits hand selected by Chris Gasbarro Raffles & a special appearance by our New England Patriot’s Cheerleaders
Complimentary Stella Artois glass for the first 200 attendees
$30 admission per guest Tickets may be purchased by emailing events@chrisgasbarro.com or purchased at the door Must be 21+ to attend.
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The Reporter March 2022
Church News & Events Rehoboth Congregational Church News Worship with us!
Seekonk Congregational Church In Person Sunday Services
Seekonk Congregational Church UCC is open for in-person services every Sunday at 9:30 AM in the Sanctuary at 600 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk, MA. Advance registration is suggested but you can also attend if not pre-registered and register at the door. Masks are opional. You can find the link on our facebook page. Please come if you feel comfortable, all are welcome. We will continue to provide a weekly virtual service at Seekonk Congregational Church YouTube.
Upcoming Events/Services
SCC-UCC will hold Lenten Seminars on Thursday March 24 and March 31 at 6:30 in the Hall, all are welcome. The description of all Seminars will be on our Facebook page at the beginning of March, all are welcome. If you have any questions on the above, please email Donna.euell@gmail.com
The Rehoboth Congregational Church worships every Sunday at 10AM. As of February 28th, masks are optional. Join us for a wonderful blend of traditional worship with a modern twist. We sing, we laugh, and we enjoy the fellowship of one another’s company while strengthening our faith and serving others. If you are traveling or not quite ready for crowds, you can still worship with us! Our Sunday services are livestreamed both on our website (www.rehobothcongregational.org/worshiponline) and on our Facebook page (www.facebook.com/rehobothcongregational). As of February 28th, masks are optional.
Ash Wednesday Service of Worship & Reflection
Ash Wednesday worship will be held on Wednesday, March 2nd at 7PM. Join us, either in-person or online. Those joining in-person will have the option of having ashes imposed on their foreheads or hands or imposing ashes themselves using individual containers.
Nursery & Church School
Our Nursery (birth – age 3) is open and staffed throughout our entire worship service. Church School students (age 3 – 8th grade) are invited to begin in worship with their families and will be dismissed to Church School after the Children’s Sermon. For more information and to register your children for Church School, visit our website, www.rehobothcongregational.org/churchschool.
Youth Group
High School Sunday School (9th-12th grade) meets Sunday mornings at 10AM. They are currently using the NOOMA video series. They do not meet on the first Sunday of the month.
Choir
Do you like to sing? Our choir has resumed singing every week and we would love to have you sing with us! Email our Music Director (nathan@rehobothcongregational.org) to learn more.
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March 2022 The Reporter
Newman Congregational Church News and Events Racial Justice Book Discussion
The book group meets using the Zoom platform on Monday evenings from 7:00pm to 8:30pm EST over three consecutive weeks each month. In March, we will be focusing on Damon Young’s What Doesn’t Kill You Makes You Blacker. Sessions are being held on March 7, 14 and 21. Interested in participating? Visit our website at newmanucc.org/ministires/racial-justice. You may also contact Pastor Timoth Sylvia at 401-434-4742 ext. 11 with questions or to add your name to an upcoming discussion.
“Visio Divina" - A Lenten Program For All Ages
This Lenten Season, Newman UCC invites you and your household to join us each Sunday morning for Visio Divina, March 6 through April 10 (Palm Sunday). Using an array of artwork from A Sanctified Art, we will join together in a reflective Bible study using imagery as a guide. This ministry, offered on Sunday mornings at 9am using the Zoom online platform, is available for all ages. We encourage families in our community to consider adding this unique opportunity to your Lenten journey. To register for Visio Divina, please contact Rev. Timoth Sylvia at 401-340-6626 x11. All scriptures and artwork will be sent to participants via email prior to each Sunday gathering.
Full To The Brim
Newman UCC Invites You to Join Us for Lent
This Lenten Season, assisted by resources from A Sanctified Art, Newman UCC will be offering programming and worship experiences focused on the abundant and expansive grace of God. Through daily devotionals, weekly worship, companionship ministries and a weekly time of reflection and discussion for all ages, it is our hope that this Lenten Season will increase your awareness of how absolutely full of love, grace and blessings your life truly is. Full details on these programs may be found on our website at newmanucc.org/lent.
Lenten Listeners
A Lenten Accompaniment Ministry from Newman UCC
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Newman Congregational Church is an open and affirming congregation of the United Church of Christ. Sunday online worship is held at 10 a.m. No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.
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The season of Lent is almost upon us. It is a season often associated with giving something up… fasting from something that may be getting in the way of our relationship with God. It is a time of deep reflection and increased intentionality in regard to our personal faith journey. Acknowledging that over the past year we have had to make many personal sacrifices because of COVID-19 and the affect it has had on our daily living, Newman UCC is once again offering a Rehoboth Mass companionship ministry for the Season of Lent. Lenten Listeners is meant to provide you with an opportunity to be intentional without sacrificing anything else. The Lenten Listeners program pairs members of the community with other Listeners for an informal experience of journeying through Lent together. Each pair, or triad, will be provided with a set of daily Electric Services Lenten reflections and devotionals meant to assist in centering and prompting reflection. The hope is that the Lenten Listeners will find ways to connect during each of the six weeks of Lent to talk about those reflections together. Quality work at a reasonable price Free Estimates There is no specific time commitment, no schedule to follow. It Insured MA Lic# A-15028 RI Lic# A-003583 is meant to be much more organic and free-flowing and could be as simple as a phone call each week. The daily Lenten devotions that will be shared come from A Sanctified Art and fit within the Lenten theme; Full to the Brim. They Carpeting • Linoleum provide a “reminder for the day” and a brief prayer. Again, the hope is that the Lenten Listeners will find a way to connect and reflect Ceramic Tile • Laminate Floors together along the way. If you would like to register for the Lenten Prefinished Hardwood Listeners program you may do so on our website; newmanucc. org/lent. Further details will be shared once you are registered. Porcelain Tile • Custom Work
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Sacred Space Kits for Lent
During the season of Lent The Faith Formation Team at Newman Congregational Church, UCC welcomes your family to embrace creating a sacred space in your home. Families can request a Sacred Space Kit that will include materials to help members of any age to reflect, create, and love one another beginning on Ash Wednesday (March 2). If you would like a bag for your family, please register on our website www.newmanucc.org. For additional information please contact the church office at (401) 434-4742 X10 or email Christy Wynveen at newmanucc.ce@gmail.com.
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The Reporter March 2022
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A Fresh Perspective on Women’s History in Virtual Library Program Wednesday, March 9 at 6 PM
The always engaging team from Grounded Goodwife returns with a virtual herstory unsanitized presentation for Seekonk Library, Suffragettes in Corselettes on Wednesday, March 9 at 6 PM. In this program for Women’s History month, you will enjoy the fascinating history of women’s undergarments and what it reveals about women’s changing roles in society. For centuries, women allowed themselves to be conformed to desired shapes. Did the demise of tightlacing help women gain the right to vote in 1920? Underwear matters. This free program will be held in Zoom; Register online at www.seekonkpl.org/events to receive the login information to attend. The presenter for this program is the mother/daughter duo Grounded Goodwife, Ehris Urban & Velya Jancz-Urban. In their herstory unsanitized presentations they strive to explore the engrossing “taboo” topics omitted from history. Audiences will be alternately chuckling and aghast! For more information, call Adult Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email library@seekonkpl.org.
Adult Craft: Craft Along with Creativebug – Tissue Paper Flowers Tuesday, March 15, 2022 at 6 PM
In this in-person program participants will watch a quick howto from Creativebug, our free streaming source for arts and crafts classes and tutorials, and then try their hand at making beautiful tissue paper pom pom flowers. These flowers are perfect for Spring decorations! A Librarian will be on hand to guide the project. Please register online to reserve your supplies. For information, visit seekonkpl.org, email agreil@seekonkpl. org, or call the library at 508-336-8230 x56141.
Community Quilting Series
begins Thursday, March 17 at 6 PM
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Whether you’ve always wanted to learn quilting, or you are a quilting expert, we have the program for you! The Quilt of Many Cultures program will bring together a quilting community of all experience levels from novice to advanced, ages 10 – adult. By participating, you will share knowledge and skills to plan and make quilt blocks highlighting the diverse cultural backgrounds in our community. This program will meet at Seekonk Library in the Large Meeting Room twice monthly on Thursdays for 3-4 months to complete the top of the quilt onsite, beginning Thursday, March 17 at 6 PM. Materials and equipment will be provided, but participant contributions are welcome. Class size is limited; registration is required. Register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl. org/events. This program is sponsored through a grant from the Seekonk Cultural Council, a local agency that is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council. For more information, call Adult Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email library@seekonkpl.org.
Nonfiction Book Club:
Say Nothing: A True Story of Murder and Memory in Northern Ireland by Patrick Radden Keefe Join us for a lively discussion of Say Nothing: A True Story of
March 2022 The Reporter
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www.seekonkpl.org • library@seekonkpl.org • 508.336.8230 Murder and Memory in Northern Ireland by Patrick Radden Keefe on Tuesday, March 29th at 6:00 PM. The title is available digitally as an ebook and audiobook through Overdrive, or you may place a hold and pick up a print copy at the library. New members are always welcome!
Programs for Children and Families
REHOBOTH, MA
Through March 30
PROUDLY SERVING MA & RI
Boston Bruins PJ Drive
Seekonk Library has teamed up with the Boston Bruins to be an official drop-off location for the Bruins’ annual pajama drive to benefit DCF Kids and Cradles to Crayons. Seekonk’s goal is to collect 130 pairs of new pajamas for children and teens in need between February 15 - March 30. The pj’s will be distributed to children in Massachusetts who “don’t know the comforting feeling of putting on PJs before settling down to sleep.” All donations of new pajamas are gratefully accepted but there is a particular need for pajamas for older children (sizes 6+) and teens. Donations may be left in the collection box in the lobby at Seekonk Library.The Boston Bruins thank everyone in advance for donating pajamas to their 15th Annual PJ Drive! The Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) works with the Boston Bruins to coordinate library participation in the drive.
Minecraft Build Challenge
Tuesdays, March 8, 15, 22 at 6:30 PM
Join Ms. Sandie on a Minecraft adventure! This 3 week session is for grades 2-5 and the lesson plans will be at that grade level. No prior Minecraft experience necessary, we help each other learn! This is a live, virtual program. We meet virtually via Zoom while simultaneously meeting in Minecraft. Students will need access to their own device compatible with Minecraft Education Edition. Minecraft licenses are provided to each student for the duration of the program. Registration required at seekonkpl.org.
Kids’ Creative Writing Club
Wednesdays, March 9, 16, 23, 30 at 4 PM
The Creative Writing Club will support young writers in exploring their creative ideas, help them write compelling and engaging pieces, and then fine-tune their writing for publication. During the four-week workshop, students will be guided to play with, and get excited about language and to shape and share their stories with others in a safe, collaborative environment. At the end of the process, their work will be pulled together into a literary magazine to be shared online. For the first class, kids are asked to bring an idea that they’d like to explore (but if they don’t have one yet, that’s fine, too!) Creative Writing Club is for grades 3 - 5. Space is limited and registration is required. The writing club will be led by Beth Perdue, a journalist and freelance writer with 20 years of experience working for newspapers and local magazines as a writer, reporter, and editor. Sponsored by the Seekonk Cultural Council.
Kids Celebrate Pi…With Pie! Monday, March 14 at 5 PM
Kids will first celebrate the math concept of pi then make a chocolate cream pie in this great program for ages 7+. A short explanation of pi will start the program then kids will roll out a pie crust, prepare a simple pie filling and make whipped cream from scratch. Seekonk Library will supply some of the main ingredients which will need to be picked up at the library starting Friday, March 11. Families will supply the remaining ingredients. Parental participation is required. Children will also receive a Pi activity booklet with creative ways to celebrate 3.14! This event is being held on International Pi Day, which is 3.14!
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The Reporter March 2022
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STORYTIMES
Seekonk Library storytimes focus on talking, singing, reading, writing and playing- important principles for your child’s reading readiness. Please bring your SAILS library card so your child can browse and select books to take home. Siblings are always welcome.
Babies & Books Mondays, March 7, 14, 21, 28 at 10 AM
Join Miss Sharon for a weekly storytime that includes a book or two followed by music, fingerplays, movement and yes, even bubbles! Drop in. No registration required. Please bring your SAILS Library card so your child may take storytime books home.
Toddler/Preschool Storytime Wednesday, March 16 at 2 PM
Join Ms. Sandie for specially themed St. Patrick’s Day storytime for ages 2-5. Siblings always welcome! Drop in! No registration needed. Please bring your SAILS Library card so your child can select storytime books to take home.
Storytime on the Go! Ongoing
Create a storytime experience at home with Storytime On The Go packets. Each packet will include 6+ books and an age appropriate early literacy activity. The activity will support one or more of the five early literacy practices: talking, singing, reading, writing and playing. Register at seekonkpl.org to reserve your child’s packet.
Highlighted Service for Families TumbleBooks
What are TumbleBooks? They’re animated, talking books created by taking existing books, adding animation, sound, music and narration to produce an ebook which you can read or have read to you. TumbleBooks also have storybooks, chapter books, nonfiction, puzzles, games, language learning and more. Truly something for every reader! Just choose a device, log in once and view. Always free. Try the TumbleBooks app, too! Browse the collection at Seekonkpl.org/Kids.
Free Activities for Tweens and Teens
The following free activities will be offered for students in grades 6-12 at the Library:
*Teen Advisory Board - Thursday, Mar. 3, 2022 at 4 PM
Your chance to plan fun new Library activities and earn volunteer credit.
*Teen Oreo Challenge - Thursday, Mar. 10, 2022 at 3 PM
COSMETIC Bonding, Porcelain Veneers, Crowns & Bridges, Invisalign - Teens & Adults
Can you identify these 12 mysterious Oreo flavors while blindfolded?
PREVENTATIVE Cleaning, Gum Therapy
Learn to code with Google CS First. We’ll be making a simple game about our heroes. Please bring a laptop or reserve one of the Library’s Chromebooks.
RESTORATIVE Fillings, Dentures, Partials, Root Canals, Oral Surgery IMPLANTS
508-252-6121 366 WINTHROP STREET, RT. 44, REHOBOTH
*Teen Coding - Thursday, Mar. 17, 2022 at 3 PM
*Teen Hangout - Thursday, Mar. 24, 2022 at 3 PM
Drop by and play games, have a snack and explore some of the many fun activities we offer, like our button maker, green screen and craft supplies. *Please visit seekonkpl.org/teens to RSVP. For information, visit seekonkpl.org, email teens@seekonkpl.org, or call the library at 508-336-8230 x56141.
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News and Notes from Blanding Library By Leslie Patterson
PJ Drive Continues
The Blanding Library is still collecting new pajamas through the end of the month for children living in low-income and homeless situations. This project is in partnership with the Boston Bruins, Cradles to Crayons, the Mass. Board of Library Commissioners and Wonderfund. There is a basket in the foyer of the library for your PJ donations, in sizes from 2T to Adult Med. Each donation will give you a chance to win a signed Boston Bruins hockey puck at the end of the drive. Let’s meet our goal of 50 pajama sets from our library.
Friends’ Book Exchange Mar. 11
The Friends of the Blanding Library will hold a book exchange for its members on Friday, Mar. 11 from 10:30 to noon. This is not a book sale, but an informal social, offering Friends members a chance to get together and swap a book or two. New members of the Friends are always welcome. Refreshments include homemade treats but people are encouraged to bring their own beverage.
Jewelry Sale Sat. Mar. 19
There will be a jewelry sale at the Blanding on Sat. March 19 from 11 to 3, with a wide variety of jewelry available, something for everyone. All proceeds will benefit library programs.
Pen Pals & Kindness
The Blanding will be hosting a program to connect people experiencing social isolation with volunteers from the community willing to exchange correspondence. Introductory meetings for people who are interested in participating will be on April 16 at 1 p.m. and April 21 at 7 p.m. Call or stop by the library for more information or if you know of someone who would benefit from this program. This program is part of the Blanding Library’s “Season of Kindness” from April to June, when the library will offer a variety of programs and activities that promote kindness in our community. Other activities will include making May baskets to give, making kindness rocks, celebrating Earth Day in April and more. Look for more information to follow soon.
Great Book Hunt
The Blanding has been awarded a grant from the Rehoboth Cultural Council to have a book hunt. Artist renderings of popular book covers will be placed throughout town weekly. We need artists to donate their talent to this fun project. Please contact the Blanding Library 508-252-4236 for more information if you would like to be part of this adventure.
Tuesday Story Time
Story Time for preschoolers will continue on Tuesday mornings at 10:30. These are 30- minute sessions of books, music, movement, and games for children under 4, with their parents or caregivers. Siblings are welcome also. Please register for Story Times. Children’s events can always be found on the library’s website on the Programs/Events page.
Crafts for All Ages
March can be windy and brings new Take & Make crafts for all ages, including a “challenging” wind chime kit, a Do-It-Yourself pinwheel craft, and a simple paper bag kite. Be sure to visit our new displays in the children’s area featuring Women’s History Month, March author birthdays, St. Patrick’s Day, and Spring!
Library of Things & More
You can check out more than books at the library. These are some of the objects that the Blanding has available to check out: a ukulele, jigsaw puzzles, a microscope, a telescope, a chess set with a strategy guide, a balloon twisting kit for making balloon animals, and comfort kits for families facing major life challenges. The Blanding has portable WiFi hotspots that can be checked out for one week. A hotspot can be used for job searches, telehealth appointments, online classes and more. You can also access Ancestry.com for free at your library. You can find out more on the library website www.blandinglibrary.net or stop by the circulation desk for more details.
Blanding Book Club
The Blanding Book Club meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m. The book for April 6 will be “All the Single Ladies” by Rebecca Traister and for May 4 the book is “How Much of These Hills Is Gold” by C. Pam Zhang. Copies of the chosen books are available at the circulation desk. New members are always welcome. The Blanding Public Library (www.blandinglibrary.net) is located in Goff Hall, 124 Bay State Rd., (phone: 508-252-4236). It is open Monday through Thursday from 10 until 8, and on Friday and Saturday from 10 to 4. Closed Sundays and holidays.
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The Reporter March 2022
SPOTLIGHT ON YOUTH SPORTS DRS Hockey Finishing the Regular Season Strong with 20-1 Record State Tournament game vs Cambridge Ringe on Saturday 3/5
DRS ended their regular season on February 23rd with a victory against Dartmouth. The game was back and forth all night, evenly matched with shots and goals. Tied 1-1 at the end of 1 (goal by McCarthy), tied at 2 at end of 2 (goal by Fecteau), and with 7 seconds left in the 3rd period, Liam Fecteau got the go ahead goal to WIN the game 3-2. Great end to their regular season! On to the State Tournament on Saturday, March 5th. Game time is 7:40pm at Simoni Skating Rink in Cambridge against Cambridge Rindge and Latin School. Good luck boys!
The 8 seniors of DRS Hockey: Marc Thaler (DR), Andre Ashton (DR), Ryan McCarthy (Captain-DR), Devin Dailey (SHS), Liam Bradbury (SHS), Evan Pereira (Captain-DR), Rowan Jordan (SHS), Devin Grant (SHS)
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The Reporter March 2022
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All types of items needed (toys, clothes, tools, household items). Call Lori at 774-254-6035 or email president@DRMBboosters.org to arrange a pick-up DRMB Boosters is a 501(c)3 organization. Donation letters available upon request. Donations accepted through April 23.
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The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Committee is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. William M. (Bill) Runey, Jr as Superintendent of Schools pending contract negotiations. Mr. Runey will assume his duties as of July 1, 2022. Mr. Runey’s appointment comes after a nationwide search process that attracted over thirty applicants for the position. A Superintendent Search Screening Committee composed of parents, town officials, community members, and school personnel, from Bill Runey the DightonRehoboth community, reviewed all the applications and invited several candidates for preliminary interviews. Subsequent to the preliminary interviews, the screening committee recommended several candidates for further consideration by the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Committee. Mr. Runey visited the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School district on February 10 and was interviewed by the School Committee that evening. On February 11, members of the Committee attended a site visit to Mr. Runey’s home district at Attleboro High School. On February 16, 2022, the School Committee voted unanimously to enter into contract negotiations with Mr. Runey. Mr. Runey has served as the Principal of Attleboro High School for the past 10 years. Prior to that, he served as the Principal of Bishop Feehan High School. Mr. Runey’s energetic and infectious collaborative leadership style earned popularity and respect throughout the Attleboro community. During his time at Attleboro High School, Mr. Runey changed the culture within the building which had positive effects throughout Attleboro Public Schools and the community at large. Mr. Runey was the public face of the new high school construction project garnering voter support by an impressive 2:1 margin and playing a key role in the management of the project which will be opening for the 2022-23 school year. Mr. Runey brings proven success in improving student outcomes, growing Career Technical Education (CTE) programs, community engagement and a wide range of administrative experience over 34+ years in education. “I am honored by this selection. I am grateful to the school committee for their confidence and to my Attleboro community for the support and preparation for this important work. I have quickly seen so many wonderful things about the DRRSD and look forward to bringing them to the next level”, said Mr. Runey upon learning of his selection. The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District School Committee is excited for the future of the District and is looking forward to working with Mr. Runey for many years to come. The School Committee also extends its appreciation to all those in the community of Dighton-Rehoboth who offered their support and assistance during the search process.
Page 2 East Bay Life Janaury 24-25, 2018
News Massachusetts Lifts School Mask Mandates
By Joe Siegel The State of Massachusetts will no longer required students to wear masks in schools as of February 28. Education Commissioner Jeff Riley said Wednesday that wearing a mask will be an “individual choice in schools across the Commonwealth unless a school district decides to establish a local requirement.” Riley said for the past two years the impact of Covid on children has “caused a strain” on “their mental health, emotional well-being, and academic success.” The decision was made with the consultation of the state’s Department of Health and infectious disease physicians, Riley said. Governor Charlie Baker cited high vaccination rates among students and the widespread availability of Covid testing as reasons to lift the mandate. Baker also pointed at the state’s low hospitalization rates and the low positivity rates as factors in his decision. The state’s testing programs will continue.
DR School Department’s Reactions
Dighton-Rehoboth School Superintendent Anthony Azar told the Reporter he was “elated” by the news. “As you recall, our recommendation to the school committee, before the school year began back in August, was to vote to make masks optional and the school committee voted to affirm administrations recommendation,” Azar said. “At that time, however, the Commissioner of Education and (Department of Elementary and Secondary Education) invoked a mask mandate which gave our school committee and administration no choice other than to follow the mask mandate. Now, with this new guidance staff and students that wish to continue to wear a mask after February 28th will have that option. Although the mask mandate will be lifted in public schools I believe there is still a federal mandate to wear masks on school buses. We will continue to monitor that mandate going forward.” “Throughout the 2021-22 school year, district administration and the committee have been unified in our hopes for the masks to come off the kids,” said Dighton-Rehoboth school committee chairman Aaron Morse. “We are happy that DESE has decided not to extend the mandate and we will continue forward with a mask optional policy. We want to be clear that any individual who wishes to continue masking according to their own risk profile and analysis are free to do so with full support from administration and their peers.”
Seekonk School Department’s Reactions
“We have always followed DESE’s mandates,” said Seekonk Schools Superintendent Rich Drolet. “Masking policies will revert to local control as needed. Along these lines, I expect the School Committee to meet prior to the 28th to rescind their “Face Coverings” policy. Therefore, Seekonk Public Schools will not require students to wear masks after February 28th.” Drolet said anyone who wants to continue to wear a mask is free to do so: “Some kids and staff will want to keep masks on and we of course will maintain a culture of support for everyone as we go through this transition.” “For the last 2 years the school committee has consistently followed all DESE, federal, state and local guidance regarding the pandemic,” said committee chair Kim Sluter. “When the face covering mandate was lifted last year the (committee) immediately rescinded the face covering policy. In accordance with the updated guidance, I fully anticipate that we will convene next week to rescind the face covering policy effective February 28.”
Page 22 East East Bay Bay Life Life Janaury Janaury 24-25, 24-25, 2018 2018 Page
March 2022
The Reporter
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The Reporter March 2022
Snapshots of Palmer River: Working Together and Reaching Higher
At Top Left to Right: And the Winners are… Lila N. and Kyra M. And Tigger Too… Ms. Crowley and Mrs. Tavares Changing the World Bottom: Stellar! By: SCIENTIST Jason Bettencourt
Stellar!
My favorite type of snowflake is the fernlike stellar dendrite. I like this snowflake because it is sophisticated. It’s really cool, it’s like the cartoon snowflake that we all think is what snowflakes look like but, more sophisticated. Fernlike stellar dendrites are the best snowflakes around. By: SCIENTIST Jason Bettencourt
And Tigger Too…
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Ms. Crowley and Mrs. Tavares, left, sport their “Favorite Book Character” costumes as part of spirit week. As you may have guessed, spirits were high prior to our February break! We hope that all of our students are now recharged for the ‘home stretch’ of learning. We are inspired at how well some of our scholars are doing thus far. Keep up the great effort students. As Winnie the Pooh would say, “You're braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think.” There’s no telling how terrific the spring data might be!
And the Winners are…
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Lila N. and Kyra M. were the proud winners of our recent PBIS raffle. Both were very excited to win a new 3 ft. “buddy”. The girls were randomly selected from hundreds of bee buck the students earned and put into the raffle. We always look forward to celebrating students who follow schoolwide expectations of being respectful, responsible and safe.
Winter is...
Written by: Madison Johnson Winter is the taste of hot cocoa bouncing on my tongue. Winter is the smell of sweet winter pine. Winter is the feeling of the frigid air flowing through my bones. Winter is the wind whistling in my ear. Winter is the snow peacefully falling from the sky!
Changing the World
Palmer River artists share their very creative ideas on ‘how to change the world’ in the recent PTSA Reflections Art Contest. This national contest encourages are from a variety of categories including literature, visual art, dance, photography and more. Each year, our students create art in response to a theme. This year’s theme was “I will change the world by…” The artwork was outstanding!!! We hope to hear soon if any of our Palmer River artists have been recognized at the state level. Good luck to all of you! Please see the Rehoboth PTSA webpage for more photos and details on our local award recipients.
March 2022
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Beckwith Chronicle Save the Dates!
Students will start MCAS tests on April 5. We ask that your students arrive to school on time and well rested to help them excel on testing dates.
Term 2 Honor Rolls
We are pleased to announce that the Term 2 High Honor Roll and Honor Roll are available on our website. This term 127 students are on the High Honor Roll and 195 students are on the Honor Roll. Congratulations to all 322 students!
Beckwith Betty White Challenge
We are happy to announce that through the Betty White Challenge, faculty and students at Beckwith raised $330.06 for the Rehoboth Animal Shelter. Students and faculty were asked to take part in the Betty White Challenge to honor Ms. White on what would have been her 100th birthday. The Betty White Challenge was a social-media-driven encouragement to donate to a local animal shelter and/or charity. White was well known for her charitable work involving animals and her animal rights advocacy.
Spirit Week T-Shirt Design Contest
Congratulations to grade 7 artist Riley Leduc! Riley's design was chosen for the Spirit Week T-Shirt design contest! Thank you to all 7th and 8th-grade artists who participated. We had fun celebrating Spirit Week from February 15 through 18.
BMS Library News
In January at the Beckwith library: 514 books were checked out, 505 students visited the library and 30 classes visited the library. The fifth grade led in book checkouts with 160, 6th had 147, 7th had 123 and 8th had 76 books checked out. The library is a busy place!
Beckwith Believers
Beckwith Believers will be participating in their unified games on March 2 and 7at BMS. They will play in the Jamboree at DRRHS on March 16. They also have away games at Berkley on March 23 and at Norton on March 30. Games begin at 3pm and usually wrap up by 4pm. If attending games, please be sure to wear a mask. Go Believers!
Raiders Baseball and Lady Raiders Softball
If your child would like to try out for the Raiders baseball or Lady Raiders softball teams, parents must sign up the child online through the link provided here or in our Beckwith Family Newsletter and provide the school nurse with a current physical. This interscholastic baseball and softball league is open to students in grades 6, 7 and 8. Tryouts will hopefully begin on March 14.
Principal’s Message
Dear Beckwith Middle School Families: I hope this message finds you all doing well and staying healthy and warm! It feels like February just started and yet, as I write this, we are nearing the start February vacation. Time is so strange: long days and short months!
Dates to Remember
3/7 Spring Picture Day 3/8 Mid-point of Term 3 3/8 School Committee Meeting 3/9 PTSA Meeting at BMS 6:30pm 3/22 School Committee Meeting
Black History Month:
The month of February is dedicated to celebrating Black History. We are recognizing the many important, influential and impactful contributions of Black Americans this month. The first week of February, we announced the start of Black History month and highlighted Langston Hughes to kick us off. We read one of Langston Hughes’ amazing poems, “Dreams” (1922) over the loudspeaker and shared a bit about his amazing impact and life. This past week, we recognized Wilma Rudolph, whose amazing life included winning three Olympic gold medals (100m, 200m, 400m relay) despite being diagnosed with Polio at age 5! Mrs. DeMelo’s students are working on a display for our bulletin boards and our librarian, Mrs. Fernandes, has pulled many relevant titles together for student and teacher reference. Students Victoria Czech, Kofi Dwumah, Symone Kizekai, and Cadence Pham created this display. Check out some of these great Black History information links below. Share and discuss the many invaluable contributions and achievements of Black Americans with your child(ren) at home. Beautiful Poetry: https://www.poetryfoundation.org/collections/101640/celebrating-black-history-month Amazing Jazz: https://www.pbs.org/kenburns/jazz/ Black inventors: https://www.history.com/news/8-black-inventors-african-american Brown v. Board of Education- Separate but not equal: https:// americanhistory.si.edu/brown/history/index.html On this link below, one of the first web pages is The Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC). It has launched its newest digital initiative, the Searchable Museum. https://blackhistorymonth.gov/exhibits-and-collections/ Thank you for your ongoing support and collaboration. I hope that you and your loved ones enjoy a very relaxing and fun February break. Sincerely, Frederick A. Randall
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The Reporter March 2022
Dr. Azar Expresses His Appreciation in Trying Times
Dighton-Rehoboth (D-R)- Superintendent Dr. Anthony Azar announced today that in the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District the mantra Together Everyone Achieves More (T.E.A.M) continues to help us get through many unprecedented times. Dr. Azar said, “As we know, the social emotional well-being of both staff and students is paramount to an environment that is conducive to the learning process.” During such unprecedented times, as a global pandemic has impacted our students and staff we are sending a resounding message to both students and staff from Superintendent Dr. Azar how awesome they truly are. Dr. Azar said further, “Students and staff need to know how much they are
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appreciated and how thankful we are that together as a team we have continued to weather this incredible pandemic storm.” “Through the resiliency of our students and hard work of our staff we have been able to accomplish much and create an environment that’s conducive to learning. We felt compelled to find a way to get that message to everyone and decided to go to each school with that message of thankfulness to share with the students and staff”, Dr. Azar said. Therefore, as the educational leader, Dr. Azar indicated that he will continue to visit each school over the next several weeks during morning announcements while utilizing the intercom system so that everyone hears the same message. Dr. Azar concluded, “Throughout our school district our administrative team’s goal in this endeavor is to lift the spirits of students and staff for all the efforts they have put forth through a historical pandemic.”
Bishop Feehan First Quarter Honor Roll
Vice Principal for Academics, Anne Kennedy, is proud to announce the Honor Roll students for the first quarter.
Rehoboth
First Honors: Landyn Andrade, 9; Morgan Arthurs, 10; Christia Assi, 10; Sean Callaghan, 10; Alexander Cote, 12; Riley D’Alessio, 10; Juliana Dias, 10; Jessica Lyle, 9; Mylee Ramer, 9; Abigail Salwierz, 9 Second Honors: Devin Andrade, 12; Benjamin Cote, 9; Samuel DeMoura, 12; Noah Ferreira, 12; Elaina Flood, 10; Cormac Masterson, 12; Isabella Silva, 9; Sophia Silva, 11 Third Honors: Alexandria Caito, 12; Amanda Carvalho, 11; Emma Chapman, 12; Joshua Cote, 10; Ethan Coyne, 10; Graeson Morin, 9; Fiona Soliday, 10; Hazel Thomas, 10
Seekonk
First Honors: Elena Borden, 9; Lydia Nassef, 11 Second Honors: Nicholas Calamar, 11; Jack Hudson, 12; Emma Leeuwenburgh, 11; Anyav Mehta, 10 Third Honors: Lucas Custodio, 9; Evan Jackson, 11; Jonathan Mignacca, 11
Saint Raphael Academy Honor Roll
Saint Raphael Academy congratulates students from Bristol County who have achieved honor roll status for the second quarter marking period in academic year 2021-22. They are:
Seekonk
Highest Honors: Grade 9: Lucas Rosa, Grade 10: Shiwei Carlson; Grade 11: Cooper Skenyon, Grade 12: Jakob Gries First Honors: Grade 9: Amanda de Abreu; Grade 12: Simon Treanor
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Second Honors: Grade 12: Travis Chartier; Grade 11: Erik Liebegott; Grade 12: Samantha Simonds
University News
Fairfield University Fall 2021 Dean List
Fairfield, CT. - Madeleine Kinney received Deans List Honors for the Fall 2021 semester.
St. Cloud State University Student Earns Degree
Godwin Oyakire, Master of Science, Medical Technology Quality
Endicott College Announces Dean’s List Students
Beverly, Mass. - Endicott College, the first college is pleased to announce its Fall 2021 Dean’s List students. Faith DaSilva, Environmental Science; Chloe Lunnie, Nursing
March 2022
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Seekonk School Committee Candidate Announcements Emily Field for Seekonk School Committee
My name is Emily Field, and I would like to share a little bit about myself and my reasons for seeking a position on the Seekonk School Committee. I have strong ties to Seekonk, having grown up here and attending SPS from the very beginning of my school journey. I was a Seekonk student from Kindergarten through High School Graduation, and at times it was definitely a struggle. Due to diagnoses of Dyslexia, ADHD, and an Auditory Processing Disorder I had to tap into all the resources the town and school system had to offer. I utilized an IEP, Individualized Education Plan, to place certain accommodations which helped me reach Graduation as well as attended the Learning Center for additional aid. Why is this relevant to my campaign for serving on the School Committee? Because not only am I a proud lifelong resident of Seekonk deeply rooted in this community, I am also a former student who knows how important it is to advocate for every child enrolled in our schools, no matter their ability. Because my former teachers were so devoted, I was able to earn my BA from Salve Regina University and create my successful photography business. Now, I would like to thank them by showing my own devotion to making sure that SPS is a thriving school community that strives for the success of every student here. Some may ask why I decided to pursue a Seekonk School Committee position when I am not an educator myself. I answer this by saying that I am already actively involved in the school community by volunteering with the Aitken School PTO, where my daughter and nephew currently attend. I extend my work with the PTO by coaching a variety of sports including Second and Eighth Grade Boys’ Rec Basketball, Girls’ Softball, Tee Ball, and Tennis. My face is familiar to many of you from the fields and gyms of our town as well as my family’s many businesses which have been a cornerstone of the community from the onset. When I say my roots are deep here, I mean they run down to the core. I may not hold an Education degree, but many in my family do. My mother, my sister, and my uncle have all worked as educators or administrators in surrounding towns. I have absorbed their experiences over the years, learning much about the strengths and areas of improvement the education system as a whole presents. I believe this gives me the advantage of viewing both sides of the educational coin; the side of the parent of a student and the side of the teachers and administration. This is a unique viewpoint, and coupled with my creative ability to find solutions that may not be so easily seen by others, I feel that it makes me a very strong candidate. I will be able to bridge the gap in communication that sometimes distances parents and educators, and I will do it with the deep commitment my love for my community demands. I always have time to stop and chat, I am never too busy to listen. I am happy to help anyone in any way I can, and when I believe that there is something that needs to be done or fixed, I will chase it until it is complete. I believe in this town, in this school system, and I welcome the challenge of serving the families, educators, and administrators of SPS in a new and different way than I have in the past. I will approach the challenge with the same determination, focus, devotion, and empathy that I have already demonstrated in every aspect of my life. Emily E Field Seekonk, MA
Meaghan Mahoney for Seekonk School Committee
My name is Meaghan Mahoney and I am seeking your vote for School Committee for our upcoming town election on April 4th. I’m honored to be considered for this important role in our town and would like to share more about myself and what I hope to contribute to our schools. My passion for education and pride in Seekonk is deeply woven into both my personal and professional life. As a lifelong resident of Seekonk, my husband and I chose to stay and raise our family here. With three children in the school system (currently SHS, HMS and Aitken), I have had the opportunity to be actively involved in our school community as a parent for over a decade, including serving as PTO vice-president at Aitken, School Council parent representative at HMS, among other volunteer roles. Professionally, I have been a school-based Occupational Therapist for eighteen years, giving me a deep understanding of the unique needs of students at all grade levels and the role that education can play in helping them reach their potential. We can all recognize that the past two school years have been perhaps the most challenging for our students and our community in the history of Seekonk. Our families have struggled and our students have suffered–both academically and socially. This has put enormous pressure on all of our town leaders and they have my deep admiration for the hard work they’ve done to help us weather this storm. My commitment to you is this: if elected, I will build on this work and collaborate with my fellow School Committee members and other branches of town government to push for absolute transparency, accountability and respect for the diverse voices that make up our town. I will welcome feedback while presenting accurate information to the public–all with the common goal of doing what’s best for our students and our community. I recognize that this is not easy or straightforward, especially with respect to federal and state requirements and the multiple priorities that fall within our town budget. We must be creative and carefully consider long term plans that are transparent to all stakeholders–from our town leaders to our educators to our students. Thank you for considering me for this important role. From a very young age growing up here in Seekonk, I have challenged myself to be a fair, effective leader and team player. With your vote, I look forward to serving with an open mind and commitment to fair and equitable decisions that will help support our students in this challenging time. Meaghan Mahoney Seekonk, MA
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The Reporter March 2022
Seekonk Human Services Fitness Class Fees
Starting January 1, 2022 there will be a $2.00 charge for Non-Seekonk Residents for the all instructor paid classes (Strength & Cardio, Drums Alive, Zumba, and Tai Chi). All Seekonk residents will be free of charge. Fees are subject to change.
Library Homebound Delivery
Residents of Seekonk who are homebound due to physical limitations or illnesses that are long term or temporary are able to enjoy library materials through our Homebound Delivery Service. Seekonk Public Library’s Homebound Delivery Service is for residents who have no one in their household to go to the library for them. Adult Services staff will coordinate deliveries and can work with participants to choose materials that meet their needs and interests. Volunteers will deliver the materials to the participant’s door contactfree and return borrowed materials to the library. For more information, call Adult Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email library@seekonkpl.org.
March Gathering
Wed, March 16th at 11:30am
Tony Capriccio will be here to perform for the March Gathering celebration. Tony Capriccio will be performing various songs from jazz (or BAM as it’s coming to be known) and beyond, Carine and Tony maintain an enticing conversation between vocals and piano. Carine, a loving mother, grew up in New York and comes from a musical family and has been entertaining the northeast and beyond her whole life. Tony, a caring father and New England native was given a clarinet by his grandfather as a child and has been playing music ever since. Preregistration is required by calling 508-336-8772. There will be a special treat to go. Cost: $3.00 residents & $5.00 nonresidents.
Interested in Water Coloring? 1st & 2nd Tuesday at 10:00am
We are looking to start a new activity come April, it will be a water coloring class. Are you interested in learning water colors or starting a new hobby? It will be held on the first and second Tuesday of the month, from 10:00-12:00. If you are interested in learning more or signing up, please call our office at 508-336-8772.
The center is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 8:30am - 4:30pm, and Wednesday 8:30am - 5:30pm and Friday 8:30am - 12:00pm.
HopeHealth Community VNA
Tuesday, March 8, 2022 at 11:00am
A Dental Hygienist from HopeHealth Community VNA is coming to talk about how to best care for your teeth or dentures. She will provide a 20 minute presentation on oral health as well as talk with you one-on-one to answer questions and list to your particular concerns. All conversations are private and confidential. Call 508-336-8772 to sign up.
TRIAD: Free Senior ID Cards
Tuesday, March 22, 2022 @ 1:00pm
The Bristol County Sheriff’s Office has free public safety program for seniors. In just a few minutes, we can create a Senior ID card that has your name, photo and emergency contact. It’s great as a second form of identification, and we offer lanyards so seniors can wear it around their necks. This free program is offered in partnership with COAs and TRIAD groups across Bristol County. Preregistration is required by calling our office at 508-336-8772.
Arts & Crafts
Mondays in March at 1:00pm
Preregistration is required for this class. The cost for this class is $5 for Seekonk residents and $7 for Non-Seekonk residents. All classes have limited availability. March 7 - Dragonfly Décor March 14 - Message Board March 28 - Easter Decoration
Podiatry Clinic
Wed, March 9, 2022 10am - 2pm
Dr. Lechan provides monthly Podiatry Clinics. An appointment is required. Items needed are insurance cards with your doctor’s names, 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, March 16, 2022 9:00am 11:00am
Seekonk Human Services has partnered with the Seekonk Fire Department to provide free monthly blood pressure & glucose screenings.
session to practice using Zoom. Bring your e-mail ID (and password if not saved) and laptop, tablet or phone. Please make sure your device is fully charged. Contact the Seekonk Human Services to preregister for this activity at 508-336-8772.
Strength and Cardio at 1:00pm Instructed by Kelly Sipe
Strength and Cardio is our newest fitness class to join our schedule. The class is taught by certified instructor, Kelly Sipe. This class helps build strength (fight osteoporosis and muscle loss) using body weight, exercise bands and hand weights. The class will improve strength and cardiovascular fitness with energizing exercise circuits. Lastly, the class will build power and endurance with a mix of functional strength training exercises for everyday activities. The fee for this class is free for Seekonk residents and $2.00 for non-residents. Preregistration is required by calling 508-336-8772. Classes will be on March 7, 2022, March 21, 2022 & March 28, 2022
Women’s Brunch
We meet every 3rd Thursday of the month at 10 am supporting our local area restaurants. Everything is Dutch treat. These are our restaurants for the next 3 months: March 17th at Benjamin’s at the Ramada Inn on Taunton Avenue---Seekonk (just opened in Feb) April 21st at Vino’s –Rehoboth May 19th at Toti’s---Seekonk If you are interested in joining our group of women for good food & good conversation please call Beverly at 401-749-4841.
PITCH (Hi-Lo-Jack) Tuesdays @ 1:00pm
We are revamping our Pitch (Hi-LoJack) game at Seekonk Human Services for January 2022. If you are interested in playing Pitch please call the Seekonk Human Services at 508-336-8772 to preregister.
Basic Beginners Sign Language Tuesdays @ 10:00am
Let’s Learn Together!
Sign Language will be at the Seekonk Human Services Center, on Tuesdays. For more information and to preregister contact Seekonk Human Services at 508-336-8772. This is a 10 week program.
If you’ve been holding back on joining Zoom meetings for library programs and more, this session is for you! Librarian Michelle Gario will lead this 90 minute basics
Tom Quigley—April 20th at 11:30am— Tom will be here to perform for a Spring activity. He is not an imitator but he brings the songs alive in his performances. You will
Tuesday, March 29, 2022 at 2:00pm Zoom Practice Session
Future Special Activities
March 2022 need to Preregister for this activity. Cost: $5 Seekonk Residents, $7 Non-Residents. Katie’s Kookies - April 27th at 11:30am— Katie will be here in the spring time to show you how to decorate cookies. You will be able to design 2 cookies for $15. Call 508-336-8772 if you are interested in these activities.
Activities and Programs Mondays
Chair Yoga 10am Knitting 12pm Arts & Crafts 1pm Strength & Cardio 1pm Zoom BINGO 1pm Indoor Cornhole 1pm
Tuesdays
Drums Alive 9am (except 1st Tuesday) $2 for non- residents Hi Lo Jack 1pm Zoom Trivia 12:30pm
Wednesdays
Drums Alive 9:30am $2 for non-residents Mahjong 1pm Zoom Coffee Chat 1:30pm
Thursdays
Chair Yoga 10am BINGO 1pm Cribbage 1pm
Fridays
Zumba 9:30am Tai Chi 10:30am *All activities are subject to pre-registration
Fuel Assistance
If you had fuel assistance last year, be on the look-out for your application. File the application as soon as you get it. If you have never had fuel assistance and would like to apply or if you need help filing your application, please call Seekonk Human Services at 508-336-8772 to make an appointment with the Outreach Department. Fuel Assistance begins November 1st. Income Guidelines: Maximum income for 1 person is $40,951, for 2 people is $53,551, for 3 people is $66,151, and for 4 people is $78,751
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 Tuesdays & Wednesdays
Seekonk Human Services will be working with Bristol Elder Services to provide nutritional meals for lunch on Tuesdays and Wednesdays to go. Meals come completely cooked and prepackaged. All you need to do is heat it up! Meals need to be ordered the day before by 9:30am. Payment is $2.50 per meal which will be due at the time of pickup. Pick up will be between 11am 12pm. March’s menu is available on our Facebook Page and by calling our office at 508-336-8772.
Seekonk Veterans Services Veteran Owned Businesses
If you have a Veteran-Owned Small Business, you may qualify for advantages when bidding on government contracts— along with access to other resources and support—through the Vets First Verification Program. This program is run by the Office of Small & Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU). Registering through OSDBU will allow you to work with us (all businesses who work with VA must be registered). You may be eligible if you’re a Veteran, and you or another Veteran at your company meet all of these requirements. All of these must be true of you or another Veteran at your company: • One of you owns 51% or more of the company you want to register, and • One of you has full control over the dayto-day management, decision-making, and strategic policy of the business, and • One of you has the managerial experience needed to manage the business, and • One of you is the highest-paid person in the company (or can provide a written statement explaining why your taking lower pay helps the business), and
The Reporter
• One of you works full time for the business, and • One of you holds the highest officer position in the company To be considered a Veteran, at least one of these must be true: • You served on active duty with the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard for any length of time and didn’t receive a dishonorable discharge, or • You served as a Reservist or member of the National Guard and were called to federal active duty or disabled from a disease or injury that started or got worse in the line of duty or while in training status To learn more about how the V.A. can help you access opportunities: Call the OSDBU Call Center at 866-584-2344 anytime from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET, or Email us at osdbu@va.gov James LaFlame Seekonk Veterans Services Officer Office 508-336-2940 Email: jlaflame@seekonk-ma.gov
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The Reporter March 2022
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We have resumed the following: • Friday Men’s Coffee @ 9:00 • Tuesday Zumba @ 9:00 • Thursday Tai Chi @ 9:00 More Classes Starting: • Tuesday March 8th Line Dancing @ 10:00 - Introducing Katy Rourke Wilson as our new Instructor • Tuesday March 8th Ladies Sewing & Quilting @ 10:00 • Thursday March 10th Ladies Knitting and Crochet @ 10:00 Masks are required. • We will slowly but surely resume activities as will be allowed due to the pandemic. • Stop in and have a cup of coffee Mondays And Wednesdays from 10 to Noon • We are in need of cotton fabric for sewing projects. We are accepting yarn donations for hats. If you can donate, please call and we will set up a safe and secure drop off The following are still on hold: Gert’s Café: Lunch Mondays at Noon. $3.00 Donation Tuesday Lunch: Tues 11:30AM to 12:30PM The COA Breakfast: Weds 8:30AM to 10:00AM Tasty Thursdays Lunch: Last Thursday of the Month at Noon. Cost $3.00 donation. Card Games: Mon at 9:00AM to 11:00 AM - Cribbage Weds at 12:30PM to 3:00PM Hi-Lo Jack
Knitting and Crochet Group: Fris at 10:00AM Ladies Sewing and Quilting: Tues at 10:30AM. Blood Pressures & Glucose Screenings: Please contact the COA 508-252-3372 for more information. Podiatry Clinic with Dr. Marian Markowitz: Please call 508-252-3372 to schedule your appointment. Cardio Drums: Mondays @ 2:00 pm Line Dancing Classes: Tues at 10:00 AM. Cost is $3.00 Donation Chair Yoga: Thurs at 9:00 Cost $3.00 Donation Meals on Wheels: Please contact Bristol Elders, Inc. at (508) 675-2101 for information on the Meals on Wheels program.
S.H.I.N.E / OUTREACH
The COA’s Outreach/SHINE worker Bradley Marshall is available Mondays thru Wednesdays 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM and Thursdays 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM to assist you with Social Service needs from Fuel, Food, housing, Medical Insurance, and intervention help. Please call for an appointment at 508-252-3372.
Gert Messier turning 100!
Art Classes: Michelle’s Art Classes Weds at 10:30. Cost $4.00 Donation
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Skip Vadnais & Gert Messier Our beloved Gert playing the piano for us. Gert will be 100 years young in March. Happy Birthday Gert! We love you, Your Friends at the Senior Center
March 2022
The Reporter
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From the State House Representative Steven Howitt Supports Bill to Improve Oversight and Governance of the State’s Soldiers’ Homes
State Senator Paul R. Feeney Appointed to Chair Joint Committee on Financial Services
On Thursday, February 17, 2022, Senate President Karen E. Spilka appointed Senator Paul R. Feeney as Chair of the Joint Committee on Financial Services. Feeney’s appointment, in addition to others, were ratified by the Senate Democrats in a Caucus held on Thursday. “I am humbled by the Senate President’s appointment as Chair of the Joint Committee on Financial Services. I am eager to work with Senate Vice Chair, Senator Michael O. Moore and Senate Committee Members as well as House Chair, Representative James M. Murphy, House Vice Chair, Representative Bruce J. Ayers and House Committee members on the many important matters before this distinguished committee,” stated State Senator Paul R. Feeney. “The issues that the Joint Committee on Financial Services actively work on are at the core of the Massachusetts economy and play a vital part in the day to day lives of all Massachusetts residents. I look forward to reviewing the many pieces of legislation before the Committee and offering my perspectives and lived experiences, and those of working people throughout the Commonwealth, toward these issues.” In addition to Chairing the Joint Committee on Financial Services, Feeney will continue to serve as Vice Chair of the Joint Committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure as well as a Member of the Senate Committee on Personnel and Administration, Senate Committee on Ways and Means, Joint Committee on Economic Development and Emerging Technologies, Joint Committee on Health Care Financing, Joint Committee on Labor and Workforce Development, and Joint Committee on Ways and Means.
State Representative Steven Howitt has voted to support changes in the governing structure at the state-run Holyoke and Chelsea Soldiers’ Homes to help improve oversight of the two facilities and ensure the delivery of quality services to the homes’ residents. Representative Howitt said the House bill implements a series of reforms in response to the 2020 COVID-19 outbreak at the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home that claimed the lives of 76 veterans. Those reforms include a restructuring of the boards of trustees at both soldiers’ homes; new professional qualification standards for the homes’ superintendents; regular inspections of the two facilities; the appointment of an independent Veteran Advocate; and the establishment of a Veterans’ Homes Council and a new Office of Veterans’ Homes and Housing within the Department of Veterans’ Services. Under House Bill 4441, the Department of Public Health will be required to conduct a minimum of two inspections per year at both the Chelsea and Holyoke facilities. The bill also mandates an annual review of both home’s health record systems to ensure they are equipped with technology that allows for easy access to records for veterans and their families. Representative Howitt said the bill will help to empower veterans and their families by requiring the Office of Veterans’ Homes and Housing to employ an ombudsman at each veterans’ home. In addition, it establishes strong whistleblower protections to prevent retaliation against individuals who submit complaints to the ombudsman or who cooperate in any investigation initiated after a complaint is filed. House Bill 4441 also creates a Veteran Advocate, who will be appointed by a majority vote of the attorney general, state auditor and governor. Representative Howitt noted the Veteran Advocate will serve independently of any state agency, and will advocate on behalf of the state’s veterans, including those residing in the Chelsea and Holyoke Soldiers’ Homes, to ensure they receive timely, safe and effective services. Under the House proposal, the executive director of the Office of Veteran’s Homes and Housing will be appointed by the Secretary of Veterans’ Services and will advise the secretary on matters relative to veterans’ housing. The executive director must have at least five years of experience in health care management as well as military or other experience working with veterans. We are a full-service real estate firm, priding ourselves in ensuring According to Representative Howitt, the that your real estate transaction is closed in a proficient and bill requires the superintendents of both professional manner. Our manner in ensuring this quality is soldiers’ homes to be licensed as a nursby communicating and collaborating with all parties involved, ing home administrator and to either be a including realtors, lenders, insurance agents, and home inspectors. veteran or have prior experience with the management of veterans in a nursing home or long-term care setting. Both superintenLaw Office of Michael C. Lima | Trivium Escrow & Closing, LLC dents will report to the executive director of 692 Warren Avenue | East Providence | Rhode Island | 02914 the Office of Veterans’ Homes and HousCell: 401-465-9546 | Office: 401-270-1144 | Fax: 401-270-9114 ing and will be appointed by the Veterans’ Homes Council based on recommendations mlima@limalawoffices.com | www.limalawoffices.com submitted by the boards of trustees of their respective homes.
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(Family Features) Often positioned near the primary point of entry, mudrooms are a popular addition to many family homes. These organizational dynamos are the perfect place to catch muddy boots, backpacks, sports equipment and dirty paws before they make it all the way into the main living areas. Luxurious mudrooms in high-end homes can sometimes boast custom cabinetry, full bathrooms, laundry facilities, showers for pets and direct pantry access. Regardless of whether your mudroom is an actual room or just a small space near the front door to hang bags and jackets, the organizational basics are the same: Corral Clutter: One of the most important items in any mudroom is storage for shoes, pet supplies, backpacks, sporting equipment and other items. If built-in storage isn’t in your budget, put up a sturdy shelving unit with a bin or basket for each family member. Get Hooked: Securely anchor a row of strong hooks along the wall for coats, hats, scarves or other seasonal accessories that may otherwise find themselves dropped on the floor upon arriving home. Mud Happens: Mudrooms are meant to handle dirt so nix the carpet and lay down tile or hardwood flooring. Pick a stylish rug to catch dirt in its tracks while also adding a design element to the space.
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Teaching Children How to Protect Birds in Your Backyard
(StatePoint) Part of being a good environmental steward is passing on this wisdom to the next generation. Here are three hands-on ways parents and grandparents can teach children to protect the birds in their very own backyard. Build a Bird Feeder: Build bird feeders using natural or recycled materials to teach two earth-friendly lessons in one: the importance of reducing waste and the need to take care of local wildlife. Bird feeders can be crafted from milk cartons, tin cans, mason jars or even natural materials like pinecones. As you decorate your bird feeders, talk to your kids about how birds are not just beautiful, but also a vital part of the ecosystem and how you are offering these creatures a chance to rest and refuel. Fill your finished products with birdseed and choose a safe spot to hang them. Experts recommend bird feeders be positioned either closer than three feet or farther than 30 feet from windows. Protect Flight: Birds in flight are prone to strike windows. Fortunately, there’s an easy home project you and your children can complete together that will help prevent this from happening. Applying decals that reflect ultraviolet sunlight to your home’s windows, particularly windows that are highly reflective of open sky, has been proven to substantially reduce the likelihood of bird strikes. Those from WindowAlert feature patterns that give the appearance of slightly frosted translucent glass, but glow like a stoplight for birds. Kids can help select from fun decal designs like snowflakes, butterflies and maple leaves. The brand also makes a high-tech UV liquid that offers even greater protection when applied between decals. To learn more, visit WindowAlert.com.
March 2022
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PHOTO: (c)Halfpoint / iStock via Getty Images Plus Keep a Log: Now that you’ve invited birds to your yard and have taken steps to protect them, inspire young naturalists to keep a log of flying visitors. Kids can draw pictures of the birds they see and note their observations. Visit Audubon for Kids at audubon.org for a birding guide, activities, games and additional projects that can help kids learn to identify various bird species by sight and sound. “Environmental stewardship starts in your own backyard and people of all ages can get involved, including kids,” says Spencer Schock, founder of WindowAlert. “The good news is that turning your home into a refuge for birds is fun, easy, and something parents, grandparents and kids can work on together.”
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Reprinted with permission from the American Institute for Cancer Research ~ Servings: 6 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 1 1/4 pounds beef, top round, cut into 3/4-inch pieces 3 cloves garlic, minced salt & pepper, to taste 1 medium onion, coarsely chopped 3 medium carrots, peeled and cut into 3/4-inch pieces 2 medium parsnips, cut into large chunks (optional) 3 cups low-fat, reduced-sodium beef broth 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary 1 leek, coarsely chopped 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
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In large pot over medium-high heat, heat oil. Add beef and garlic. Cook, gently stirring until meat is evenly browned. Season with salt and pepper. Add onion, carrots and parsnips. Cook 3-4 minutes. Stir in broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer about 75 minutes, or until meat is tender.
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March 2022 The Reporter
Visit one of these restaurants today! Or try a recipe at home... Stir in potatoes and simmer another 30 minutes. Add rosemary and leeks. Continue to simmer, uncovered, until potatoes are tender. To avoid potatoes falling apart, do not overcook. Serve hot and garnish with parsley, if desired.
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Directions
Heat oven to 375 F. In large bowl, mix flour, baking soda and salt until blended. Set aside. In medium bowl, beat butter and sugar until combined. Add eggs, food coloring and peppermint extract; beat until combined. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients; beat until combined. Stir in chocolate chips. Drop spoonfuls of cookie dough onto baking sheet. Bake 11-14 minutes, or until edges are lightly browned.
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The Reporter March 2022
IN MEMORIAM Raymond C. Stebenne
Michael Brum
December 9, 1957 - March 5, 2020
Remembering you is easy. We do it every day. Missing you is the heartache that never goes away. ~ Your Loving Family and Liz
Seekonk – Raymond C. Stebenne, 98, passed away on Thursday, February 10, 2022. He was the beloved husband of the late Irene (Fitzmaurice) Stebenne. Born in Pawtucket, RI, Raymond resided in Seekonk from the age of five, and was the son of the late Charles and Yvonne M. (Gelinas) Stebenne. Ray was a United States Navy veteran of World War II. In 1951, he founded Stebenne Paint & Wallpaper in Pawtucket. Ray retired in 1989. Ray enjoyed spending time on Block Island and Cape Cod and boating in and around Narragansett Bay in a boat he named the “Black Goose,” (the Wampanoag translation of Seekonk). He was also an avid golfer and honorary lifetime member of the Pawtucket Raymond C. Stebenne Country Club. Ray was a universally admired and well-respected member of the community and for over forty years, was deeply involved in politics in the Town of Seekonk – serving as President of the Chamber of Commerce and Chairman of the Board of Selectmen during that time. He will be remembered for his local and national public service, his generosity, and his unfailing sense of humor and quick wit. Ray leaves two daughters, Donna J. Larkin of Seekonk, Deborah J. Stebenne and her husband, Thomas Riley of Seekonk; a son, David R. Stebenne and his wife, Deneen, of Warren, RI and Madison, NH; six grandchildren, Karen “Kay,” Raymond, Erinn, Kate, Jamie, and Lindsey; many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. He was the father-in-law of the late Gerard F. Larkin and the brother of the late Jean Pappas. His funeral will be held on Wednesday at 9 a.m. from WILLIAM W. TRIPP Funeral Home, 1008 Newport Ave., Pawtucket, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. in Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Parish, Coyle Drive, Seekonk. Interment with Military Honors will follow at Seekonk Cemetery. VISITATION will be Tuesday from 4 to 7 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts to Friends of Seekonk Veterans Memorial, P.O. Box 366 Seekonk, MA 02771 would be appreciated. TRIPPFUNERALHOME.com
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Mary Louise Paolino (age 85) of Bluffton, SC, and formerly of Seekonk, Massachusetts, went to be with the Lord on January 26, 2022. Her final days were spent surrounded by those whom Mary Louise Paolino she loved and who loved her dearly. Born in Cranston, Rhode Island, she was the daughter of the late Orlando and Mary Recchia and sister of the late Richard Recchia. Mary Lou’s capacity for love, devotion to her family, and energy for life lit up the room. Her quiet, gentle patience and her selflessness are her legacy. Her family admired her as a Godly woman who was never afraid to stand for what was right. She loved her country and valued her freedom. She passed her appreciation and gratefulness for nature on to her children. She loved sports, being an avid tennis player
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To submit an obituary, please call the Reporter Office at 508-252-6575 for information. and a golfer and a member of Crestwood Country Club in Rehoboth, Massachusetts for 25 years. Mary Lou is survived by her loving husband of 61 years, Edward, and by her three daughters, Giana (Timothy), Julianne (Theodore), and Lisanne (Joe). She is also survived by her grandchildren Andrew, Talia, Teddy, Ashley, Marina, Krissa, Christien, Alessia, and Sydnie who lovingly called her “Mimi.” Her family already misses the lovely sound of her piano keys but takes great comfort in knowing that she is playing for the Lord now in heaven. A Catholic mass will be held for her at St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church in Bluffton, SC on Saturday, January 29, 2022 at 10:30 a.m. Arrangements made by Sauls Funeral Home, https://www.saulsfh.com.
He is survived by his son Sean and wife Natalie in Alabama; Step-son James Ravenscraft and wife Tara in New Hampshire; brother-in-law William Lund in Vermont; nine grand-children and two great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. His ashes will be scattered by the family at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to : Rehoboth Emergency Management Association (REMA), 334 Anawan St., Rehoboth, MA 02769 Condolences on line at; Hathaway Funeral Home, Attleboro, MA
David Allen Foley David Allen Foley, a Navy veteran, passed away at his home in Seekonk at the age of 81 on 01/27/2022 with his loving wife of 31 years, Beverly (Lund) Foley by his side. He was the adopted son of William and Katharine David Allen Foley (Roat) Foley and was born in Ashton, PA. He was the final survivor of his biological brothers George, Erwin, Charles, Robert and Joseph Engel and sister Dorothy (Engel) VanAlstyn and step-brothers Earl, John and Sam McDonald. He was a Mechanical Engineer who designed and built precious metals plating lines. He also was the former owner of Dave’s True Value Hardware Store on Winthrop Street in Rehoboth during the 1980s. Dave was also an EMT and member of the Rehoboth Rescue Squad. He was a master Diver and Capt. of the Dive Team and training officer. He was a Scoutmaster for the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 1 in Rehoboth. Dave & Bev enjoyed many cruises to Europe and the Mediterranean, Africa, Brazil, Caribbean, Bermuda, Panama Canal, Hawaii and Alaska. And camping in their RV around the country. Dave was a Round Dance cuer and he and Bev were also dance instructors. His hobbies included woodworking and making furniture, model building and HO gauge trains.
$2,095
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The Reporter March 2022
Robert “Bob” E. Anderson Robert “Bob” E. Anderson, age 67, went home to his Savior, Jesus Christ, on February 26th after a three year battle with cancer. He was the son of Laura “Jean” (Jette) Anderson and the late Lloyd “Ken” Anderson. Bob was born on February 6, 1955 in Attleboro. He graduated from Mansfield High School, class of 1973, and Fisher College. He worked for over 48 years at the Foxboro Company as an Order Editor Engineer. He also worked nights at the Foxboro General Store for 23 years. He Bob Anderson was both a long standing Deacon and Treasurer at his church, New Beginnings Christian Fellowship. Bob’s two greatest loves were his Savior, Jesus Christ, and his family. He married the love of his life, Denise, on October 13, 1978. Together they raised their beloved six children in Foxboro for 43 years. Devoted and loving husband to Denise (Travers) Anderson. Loving father to Angela and her husband Jason Edmonds of Waltham, Robert and his wife Seun Anderson of Cranston, RI, Amy and her husband Adam Herrick of Easton, Victoria and her husband Turhan Douglas of Los Angeles, CA, Benjamin Anderson of Woonsocket, RI, and Karyn “Kitty” and her husband Steven Field of Cumberland, RI. Adoring Poppy to AJ, Jemi, Nolan, Femi, Madison, Rocco, and Bo. Brother to L. Kenneth and Lori Anderson of Rehoboth, Thomas and Annette Anderson of Mansfield, Steve and Louisa Anderson of Attleboro, Mark and Karen Anderson of Norton, Laura and Dave Bouchard of Mansfield, James and Pamela Anderson of Norton, John and Deb Anderson of Mansfield, as well as sister in law, Theresa Anderson of Attleboro. Bob was predeceased by his father L. Kenneth Anderson and his brother Michael Anderson. He is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews as well as countless friends that were like family to him. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend calling hours on Friday, March 4th from 4PM to 7 PM at the Roberts and Sons Funeral Home, 30 South Street, Foxboro. A memorial service will be held Saturday March 5th at 10 AM at Victory Church, 67 High Plain St., Sharon. To send an on-line condolence please visit the funeral home website at www.robertsandsonsfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Assemblies of God World Missions at https://giving.ag.org/donate.
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Death Notices Rehoboth
• Agnes I. (Bettencourt) Rose 88, of Wheeler Street, Rehoboth, passed away Tues, Feb 8, 2022, at Laurelwood at the Pinehill’s, Plymouth, MA, she was the wife of the late Joseph L. Rose. • Russell F. Latham, 81, of Rehoboth, died peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, February 12, 2022.
Seekonk
80 Broadway, Taunton MA 02780 508.822.0081 www.silvafuneralhome.com
Owners and Directors, Amy Silva Rigtrup, Type 3, Lawrence Quintal, Type 3 and Christine (DeLawrence) Quintal, Type 3
• Mary Louise Paolino (age 85) of Bluffton, SC, and formerly of Seekonk, Massachusetts, went to be with the Lord on January 26, 2022. • Robert A. Araujo 90, passed away on Tuesday, February 1, 2022, at Rhode Island Hospital. • Raymond C. Stebenne, 98, passed away on Thursday, February 10, 2022.
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NOW HIRING: Five Bridge Inn Bed & Breakfast/ Wedding Venue has several Job openings; House cleaning, Landscaping & Maintenance, Event Proctors & Coordination and an IT/Clerical Position. If interested please call James 774.565.5500 Seekonk Flea Market at Seekonk Speedway. Positions available Sundays from March 27th thru December 3rd. One person to direct traffic in the parking lot; general help around the Flea Market. Call Linda at 401-263-5737. Seekonk Flea Market at Seekonk Speedway. Buyers and Vendors wanted every Sunday 7AM-1PM March 27th thru December 3rd 2022. Call Linda at 401-263-5737.
WANTED
Wanted: Old, new, or used perfumes or colognes that you want to get rid of. Please donate. I can pick up. Call Debbie 401-632-3602. Cash paid for vintage trading cards, video games,Comics and toys. Call, txt Ernie- 508-662-1959 or email enrboas@ yahoo.com.
Civil War, WW1, WW2, Anything to do with military; helmets, knives, uniforms, guns, HAVE (license), anything related to wartime, will pay cash for items, ask for Charles, call 508-230-6444; call anytime thanks.
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Place Classified ads at www.ReporterToday.com VACATION RENTAL
LAND FOR SALE
Ski Bretton Woods, Cannon Mt, FRANCONIA NH: Custom log cabin home sleeps 4, close to winter attractions. Weekly or weekends. Snowmobiling, cross country skiing out the door. Excellent weekend getaway. For rates call Joe at 401-439-8089.
HOME & GARDEN
Bicycle Sales & Service: Your Bike Shops now doing Spring Tune-ups on all brands, Riverside 401-433-4491 and Warren 401245-9755. Call Art or Joe for specials and service now.
Buildable lot w/ town of Seekonk water hookup. Lot is on the Rehoboth/Seekonk town line-Carpenter/Cross St. $75,000 as it sits. For more information call 508-761-8203 and ask for George.
House plants for sale: good variety, call 401-433-2922.
EQUINE
Free Quarter Horse Mare: 14.3 hands, 16 years old, Companion horse due to Kissing Spine Disease, call Terri for more info 774284-7600.
HALL RENTAL
BOOK YOUR SPECIAL OCCASION PARTY NOW! Riverside Sportsman Assoc. Mohawk Drive off Wampanoag Trail. For all occasions: Birthday, Family Reunions, Club/ Organization Meetings. Cash Bar. Monthly Steak Fries and other events. Call the club at 401-433-0209, leave a message.
VACATION HONEYMOON RENTAL
GENERAL SERVICES
Energy Efficient Cooling and Heating all year long. Custom Ductless Mini Split systems for your home or business. Energy efficient Cooling and heating all year. Fully licensed/Insured, Get your free in home estimate. Call Jay 508-496-2407 or visit www. ductlessinstalls.com. I am a Personal Care Assistant & Housekeeper willing to help you! Will perform many duties including meal prep, medication reminders, shower assistance, shopping/ errands, laundry, light cleaning. Call Terri for information and rates. 774-284-7600. 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. Call Tony 508-2261295; www.BigBlueRemoval.com.
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. Paying CASH for Coins, Gold & Silver Jewelry, Flatware, Costume Jewelry, Antiques, Smalls, Old Toys, Gift Cards,Fishing Lures, Pre 1964 Coins, Oddities. Warren Exchange 175 Main Street in Warren (401)2455001 Off Street Parking, Fair & Friendly :) RI Precious Metal License #201102. House Calls Available by Appointment.
March 2022 The Reporter
St. Michael, Azores Ponta Graca (Portugal). Pristine 2 bed, 2 bath apartment with kitchen, DR, LR & laundry. Linens provided. Majestic Atlantic and mountain views from spacious deck. Near golf courses, beaches, and more. $560 Weekly. Time is money, must act now. Call 401-480-0374 or 508336-8432.
Engaged? Just Married? Celebrating a Special Anniversary? Let everyone know! Send your news to news@reportertoday.com
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The Reporter March 2022
Business Directory CATEGORY Antiques/Cash for Gold Art Supplies/Framing Attorney Attorney Attorney Auto Body Auto Body Auto Parts Auto Repairs Building Contractor Building Contractor Candidate - Rehoboth Candidate - Rehoboth Candidate - Rehoboth Candidate - Rehoboth Candidate - Rehoboth Candidate - Rehoboth Candidate - Seekonk Candidate - Seekonk Candidate - Seekonk Candidate - Seekonk Candidate - Seekonk Candidate - Seekonk Carpet Cleaning Carpet Cleaning Child Care Chimney Cleaning Chimney Services Cleaning Service Cleaning Service Collectibles Country Club Credit Union Dentist
COMPANY NAME
PAGE
Americana Auction Gregory D. Dorrance, Co. Laurie P. Mullen, Attorney Law Office of Luke P. Travis Michael C. Lima, Esq. A-1 Custom Auto Body Sousa’s Auto Body NorthEastern Auto Supply New England Tire A.M. Carpentry Richard G. Dias Jeff Reber Joseph Nunes Katy Rourke Wilson Michael Deignan Rehoboth Republican Town Comm Vote Jake Kramer Andrea Rosseter David Roderick Dawn Dyer Justin Sullivan Kyle Juckett Nelson Almeida Earle’s Carpet Cleaning M & S Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Twin Oaks Farm Learning Center RD Chimney Sweep Kenny’s Masonry & Chimney Sweep Ada’s Cleaning Services Debbie’s Cleaning Service Wexler’s Collectibles Hillside Country Club Community & Teachers Credit Union Coastal Dental Seekonk
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CATEGORY
COMPANY NAME
Dentist Dentist Dentist Dentist Dentist Driveways & Masonry Electrician Electrician Electrician Events Farm - Apparel Feed & Garden Store Fence Installation Flooring - All Types Flooring - Wood Food Service Fuel - Oil Fuel - Oil Fuel - Oil Fuel - Propane Funeral Home Funeral Home Funeral Home Funeral Home Furniture/Upholstery Golf Tournament Handyman Home Improvements Insurance Insurance Insurance Agency Insurance Agency Interior Design Jewelers
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David C. Zaluski, D.D.S. Dr. Wassouf D.D.S. George Family Orthodontics Lisa Daft DMD & Associates, PC Seekonk Dental DeJesus Property Services Bleau Electric Greaves Electric Neal Bellavance Electric Taste of the Town Kave Rock Farm Bay State Pet & Garden Supply Fence Tech Earle Dias Interiors David J. Ledoux Hardwood Floors The Cooks House Al’s Quality Oil Co. COD OIL E & V Oil Co. Propane Plus Family’s Choice Cremation, Inc. Hathaway Funeral Home J.H. Williams & Co. Funeral Home Silva Funeral Home Masterson Furniture RYBSA American Eagle Enterprises, LLC MH Home Services Blaeser Insurance Tammy Weaver Frazao Insurance Smith Insurance Group, Inc Fabric Gallery M.R.T. Co., Inc.
Sanitation Inc. e m o o r C
Commercial
Quick Dispatch Service
Residential
Family-owned Quality Service Since 1962
508-252-4668 • 508-336-7024
ELECTRIC 774-427-9004
www.croomesanitation.com
INDUSTRIAL • COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL
Septic Tanks & Cesspools • Title V Inspections Vacuum Cleaned • Sewer Rooter Service
Rehoboth, MA
48 42 10 28 18 56 68 60 39 37 50 9 43 39 33 63 61 5 72 70 65 65 64 66 34 45 60 58 14 26 17 46 59 4
March 2022 The Reporter
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Business Directory CATEGORY Jewelers Junk Removal Kitchen/Bath Design Kitchen/Bath Design Landscape Materials Landscape Materials Landscape Service Landscape Service Landscape Service Landscape Service Landscape Service Lawn Care Liquor Store Local Organization Log Homes Marble Fabricators Masonry-Construction Masonry-Construction Masonry-Construction Mosquito & Tick Control Orthodontics Painting Contractor Painting Contractor Painting Contractor Painting Contractor Painting Contractor Painting Services Paving Contractor Paving Contractor Physical Therapy Plastering Plumbing & Heating Plumbing & Heating Private School Private School Property Management
COMPANY NAME Plante Jewelers AOL Enterprises Infinity Kitchens Johnson Design J&J Materials J&J Materials Ouellette Landscaping Superior Landscaping Superior Lawn Care T. Moreshead Landscaping Welshman Landscaping & Constr Lawn Doctor Regency Liquors Rehoboth Bluebird Society Cedar Hill Log Homes Star Marble & Granite StoneScapes - Mark Carvalho Valter Rego Masonry Welshman Landscaping & Constr ohDEER George Family Orthodontics Cronan Painting EZ Painting Iachetti Painting Company Levine Painting Co., Inc. Lundco Painting LLC. David Laurino Painting All Phase Asphalt Driveways Ryan Asphalt Paving Personal Best Physical Therapy East Coast Plastering Sine Plumbing & Heating Vintage Plumbing & Heating Seekonk Christian Academy St. Luke’s School DeJesus Property Services
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CATEGORY
COMPANY NAME
Real Estate Real Estate Real Estate Real Estate Real Estate Real Estate Real Estate Real Estate Remodeling Restaurant Restaurant Restaurant Restaurant Restaurant Restaurant Restaurant-Pizza Roofing Contractor Roofing Contractor RVs and Campers Seafood Market Security Systems Septic Inspections Septic Systems Septic Systems Septic Systems Stump Grinding Tax Preparation Trash/Junk Removal Tree Service Tree Service Tree Service Tree Service Tree Service Tree Service Water Treatment Water Treatment Wells & Sump Pumps
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Aubin Realty Blu Sky Real Estate Century 21 - David Smith Heather Feid, Realtor Keystone Property Group - Casey ReMax Rivers Edge Agents TK Real Estate Brokerage Vicki Doran Batty Construction Boneyard Barbecue & Saloon El Mariachi EP Wieners La Collina Madeira Restaurant Vino’s Family Cafe Cuzin’s Pizza B & R Fournier Construction, Inc. Tabeleys Roofing Camping World of Berkley Digger’s Catch Home & Commercial Security Pro Inspection Services Croome Sanitation, Inc. Soares Sanitation Pumping, Inc. Town Sanitation Heritage Tree & Arborist Services New England Tax Service, Inc. Big Blue Removal Service Advanced Tree Carlson Tree Service Choate Tree Service Heritage Tree & Arborist Services Horticultural Creations, Inc. Seekonk Tree Service Olde Colony Clean Water. Inc Water Filter Company, Inc. Vintage Plumbing & Heating
34 38 21 16 8 35 48 26 53 62 62 62 63 62 63 62 30 40 71 62 43 69 68 44 49 31 44 21 20 32 41 31 61 60 35 19 21
Title 5 Inspection
$25
• Voluntary Assessments * Not affiliated & Consulting Discount with any on Title V • Septic Systems septic system installation or Inspection • Cesspools pumping co.
Professional Inspection Services - Est.1995 -
Call Steven Drew • 508-667-4025 MassDEP Approved Title 5 Inspector
No Mess! We Hand-Dig
Commercial & Residential
Year-Round Service
The Reporter March 2022
70
Keeping you safe and warm all winter.
Important Winter Safety Tips •
Please keep a clear path shoveled to your driveway and propane tank(s), so our friendly delivery drivers and technicians can access your equipment safely and timely.
•
Make sure all of your exhaust vents are clear of snow to ensure proper ventilation. Restricted ventilation could cause a potential no heat call and/or create a serious safety hazard.
•
Remember to never use an appliance to heat your home that isn’t meant to heat your home (i.e. an oven), and never bring a propane appliance inside of your home such as a grill or generator, as this can cause carbon monoxide poisoning.
•
If you smell gas, please leave your home and call 9-1-1.
Rehoboth
177 Winthrop Street Rehoboth MA 02769 PropanePlus.com | 508.252.3359
March 2022 The Reporter
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SEASON SEASON
OPENER OPENER Let’s Out There! There! Let’s Get Get Back Back Out GRILLS GRILLS GRILLS SAVE UP TO
COOLERS COOLERS COOLERS SAVE UP SAVE UP TO TO
CHAIRS CHAIRS CHAIRS SAVE TOTO SAVEUP UP SAVE UP TO
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†
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NEW NEW RVs
† †
†
†(STK # 1945343) Savings based on MSRP and exclude applicable taxes and fees; Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) may not represent actual sales price and may not be the price at which vehicle is sold at in participating dealer markets. Valid only at participating CAMPING WORLD and GANDER RV; Void where *(SKUbased 721975) Saleand price $149.99, Regular **(SKU 754677) SaleRetail pricePrice $41.99, Regular $59.99. ^(SKY 96705) Sale price $69.99, Regular †(STKprohibited. # 1945343) Savings on MSRP exclude applicable taxes $249.99. and fees; Manufacturer Suggested (MSRP) $99.99 . #Offers may not be combined with other andvehicle not applicable to Suggested prior sales. SeePrice dealer for details. Offer(s) expire 04/03/2022. may represent actual sales price and may notany be the priceoffer at which sold at in participating dealer Valid †(STKnot 1945343) Savings based on MSRP and exclude applicable taxes and fees;isManufacturer Retailmarkets. (MSRP) only participating CAMPING GANDER RV;price Void where prohibited. 721975) Sale price dealer $149.99, RegularValid may at not represent actual sales WORLD price andand may not be the at which vehicle is*(SKU sold at in participating markets. $249.99. **(SKU 754677) Sale price $41.99, Regular $59.99. ^(SKY 96705) Sale price $69.99, Regular $99.99 . Offers may not be com-
at participating CAMPING WORLD and GANDER RV; Void where prohibited. *(SKU 721975) Sale price $149.99, †(STK #only 1945343) Savings based on MSRP and exclude applicable fees; Manufacturer RetailRegular Price (MSRP) bined with any other offer and not$41.99, applicable to prior sales. Seetaxes dealerand for details. Offer(s)Regular expireSuggested 04/03/2022. $249.99. **(SKU 754677) Sale price Regular $59.99. ^(SKY 96705) Sale price $69.99, $99.99 . Offers may not be commay not represent actual sales price and may not be the price at which vehicle is sold at in participating dealer markets. Valid bined with any other offer and not applicable to prior sales. See dealer for details. Offer(s) expire 04/03/2022. only at participating CAMPING WORLD and GANDER RV; Void where prohibited. *(SKU 721975) Sale price $149.99, Regular $249.99. **(SKU 754677) Sale price $41.99, Regular $59.99. ^(SKY 96705) Sale price $69.99, Regular $99.99 . Offers may not be combined with any other offer and not applicable to prior sales. See dealer for details. Offer(s) expire 04/03/2022.
FOR LIMITED TIME OFFERS FOR LIMITED TIME OFFERS
137 Myricks St. in BERKLEY, MA | 877.499.9710 | CampingWorld.com
FOR LIMITED TIME OFFERS
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The Reporter March 2022
The Reporter P.O. Box 170 Rehoboth, MA 02769
24 HOURS
7 D AY S A W E E K
“Ever y Day is Monday ”
Call us today. * FULL SERVICE * Premium heating oil
EFFICIENCY & VALUE Serving the East Bay for over 40 years
PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID ATTLEBORO, MA PERMIT NO. PI 228
508-336-8851 / 800-515-8003
2500 GAR HIGHWAY, SWANSEA MA MASTER MA RI LICENSED
www.evoilco.com
Excellence Guaranteed 2244 Pawtucket Avenue • East Providence, RI 02914
(401) 438-1994 • (401) 434-4774
Great Service. Great Quality. Factory Certified: Chevrolet • Buick • GMC • Cadillac • Ford • Dodge • Chrysler Fiat • Jeep • Subaru • Nissan & Infiniti • Honda & Acura • Hyundai • Kia
Rated #1 Body Shop
• Foreign & Domestic • Free Estimates • Insurance Estimates • Complete Collision Work • Aluminum Repair Certified