December 2025 Seekonk Reporter

7 Days! Fri & Sat: 11am - 10pm Sun - Thu 11am - 9pm

Let Us Cater Your Holiday Events

STARTERS

Homemade Meatballs

Chicken Wings

Handbreaded Tenders

Item

$45.00 $80.00

$55.00 $95.00

$55.00 $95.00

Hot Honey and Truffle Arancini $45.00 $80.00

Cheesy Garlic Knots

Fried Ravioli

$35.00 $65.00

$40.00 $75.00

Fresh Fried Mozzarella $40.00 $75.00

PASTA

Item Half Full

Baked Cavatappi

Stuffed Shells

Baked Mac n Cheese

$40.00 $65.00

$45.00 $80.00

$45.00 $80.00 Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo $50.00 $85.00

Spaghetti with Marinara $35.00 $55.00 Meat and Cheese Lasagna $50.00 $85.00

Bolognese with Cavatappi $50.00 $85.00

ENTREES & SPECIALTIES

Eggplant Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Marsala

$50.00 $85.00

$55.00 $95.00

$55.00 $95.00

Baked Haddock in Pesto Butter $80.00 $130.00

Fish n Chips

Steak Tips w/Peppers & Onions

Sausage & Peppers

$75.00 $125.00

$95.00 $175.00

$45.00 $80.00

SOUPS AND SALADS

Garden Salad

Caesar Salad

Greek Salad

Antipasto Salad

Caprese Salad

$40.00 $65.00

$35.00 $60.00

$40.00 $65.00

$60.00 $95.00

$45.00 $78.00

Chowder (NE Clam Chicken Corn) $15.00

Chicken and Rice Soup $15.00 1 qt

SANDWICHES AND SIDES

Item 1 doz. 2 doz.

Chicken Salad Wrap

Caprese Sandwich

$45.00 $80.00

$40.00 $75.00

Chicken Caesar Wrap $40.00 $75.00

Vegetarian Wrap

Buffalo Chicken Wrap

Italian Grinder

French Fries

$50.00 $85.00

$45.00 $80.00

$65.00 $100.00

$25.00 $45.00

Truffle Parmesan Fries $35.00 $55.00

Vegetable Medley $45.00 $75.00

DESSERTS

Tiramisu Tray

$65.00

Chocolate Layer Cake (14 slice) $70.00

Homemade Cannoli (each) $2.50

Carrot Cake (14 slices) $70.00

Limoncello Cake (14 slices) $60.00

Chocolate Chunk Cookie (each) $2.50

New York Cheesecake $65.00

*Serving size approx.10+ per Half tray, 20+ per Full tray

Must present coupon.

• New oil filter installed

• Up to 5 quarts major brand oil

• Special oils & filter types will result in extra charges

• Most U.S. & Import cars

PLEASE CALL FOR APPOINTMENT

present coupon. Includes:

• Lube, Oil Change & New Filter (up to 5 quarts of a major brand oil)

• Top Off Coolant & Other Fluids Under the Hood

• Complete Tire Rotation*

• Check Tread Depth on All Four Tires

• Adjust Tire Pressure to Manufacturer's Specs

• Evaluate Brake Condition

• Inspect Battery Terminals & Connections

• Examine All Belts & Hoses for Cracks

Laura Schwall

Rehoboth Town News

From the Town Clerk

Hello All ~ I hope this article finds you all healthy and safe along with having an enjoyable Thanksgiving Holiday. I wish you all a healthy and happy December holiday season with your family and friends.

Annual Town Census

Our Annual Town Census Forms for the year 2026 will be mailed to all households in Rehoboth during the first week of January. The Board of Registrars is required to conduct an annual listing of residents as of the first of January each year. In addition to the name, address, telephone number, date of birth, occupation, veteran status, and number of dogs, the form includes a section for school information required by the school department. Please Note: a section for e-mail addresses and cell phone numbers is included on your 2026 Town Census form. If you no longer have a home phone and use a cell phone, please let us know your new number so we can update our records. Please also provide your e-mail address ~ thank you.

As a reminder, as per MGL, failure to return the completed Town Census form may result in voters being placed on an “inactive” voting list or being removed from the voting list. Please do not let this happen to you; please return your census as soon as you receive it in January. Simply review the pre-printed Census Form, make any necessary corrections, sign it, and return it no later than January 31st. You may choose to return the Census Form via the U.S. Postal Service, or utilize the Census drop box at Town Hall. Additionally, you may scan your signed and completed census forms and email them to us at TownClerk@ RehobothMA.GOV. This year we will also be placing the Census drop boxes around town. Look for a census box at the new Town Hall, Francis Farm COA Senior Center, Blanding Library and the Bristol Savings Bank lobby. The Clerk’s Office is looking forward to hearing from you in January.

New residents may receive blank forms, which they are asked to complete and return. If you do not receive a Census Form, please contact the Town Clerk’s Office 508-252-6502 X-3112, X-3109 or X-3110. Blank Census forms are also available on the town website @ http://www.town.rehoboth.ma.us/town-clerk/pages/census-information

For your information, results of the Town Census are used to prove residency for a variety of reasons. The data is also used for state college entrance applications, veterans’ benefits, amending and establishing birth records, locating missing persons, establishing precinct lines, predicting future school enrollment, state and federal funding to the town, police and fire protection, updating the voting list, and other legal purposes. Please return your town census as soon as possible, but no later than January 31, 2026 ~ thank you.

For the convenience of dog owners, we will again include with the 2026 Census, an application for the 2026 Dog License(s). This gives dog owners the opportunity to license their dogs well before the annual April 1st due date should they want to license their dogs early. Dog license applications must be accompanied by a current rabies certificate (with a vaccination date of May 1, 2026 or later) and proof of spay or neuter, unless we already have it on file in the Clerk’s Office (if applying for the $10 licensing fee). If you are unsure, please give our office a call and we can let you know what we have in our database. Dog owners please remember your self-addressed envelope with your license renewal and payment (the current postage will be printed on the dog license application). For your information, we will be holding our Annual Rabies Vaccination Clinic again this year with Seekonk with a tentative date of Saturday, March 14th, 2026 at the Seekonk Public Safety building (Fire Division – 500 Taunton Ave. – Route 44) from 9AM-12PM. Details will be printed in the 2026 Town Census mailer and on the Town Clerk’s website: https://www.rehobothma. gov/town-clerk/pages/dog-licenses

Reminder, all residents 70-years old or over do not need to pay the $10 or $20 yearly dog licensing fee. You may 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

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Seekonk: The Seekonk 8U football team stands united after a record-setting year, finishing 9–0 and earning the town’s firstever regional championship.

Rehoboth: A season of heart, grit, and pride — the DR Cheer Team proudly displays their State Runner-Up trophy.

Re p o r t e r

P.O. Box 377 Rehoboth, MA 02769

© 2018 Target Marketing Group, Inc.

We welcome all ideas, photos, articles, news releases and notices that affect these areas.

We reserve the right to refuse any submission, including classified/display advertising.

ALL NEWS ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY THE 25TH OF THE MONTH

It MUST INCLUDE the name and phone number of the sender.

The Reporter is MAILED FREE TO THE TOWNS OF REHOBOTH AND SEEKONK twelve months a year. Subscriptions are available outside our distribution area.

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. Even though you are 70 or over, you still need to register your dog every year and provide proof of a valid rabies vaccination for your dog. Thank you!! If you are returning your dog tag application, as well as your census forms, residents are asked to return their completed forms via mail, e-mail, drop off in census bins around town or place their form in the Town Hall drop box at 340 Anawan Street.

PLEASE NOTE: In 2022, we moved our dog licensing program to an online database program, similar to the Building Permitting process, which can be accessed from the comfort of your home computer, tablet or smartphone. Complete details of the Dog Licensing Program can be found on the Town Clerk webpage – Dog Licenses. Direct link: https://www.rehobothma.gov/townclerk/pages/dog-licenses . To register your dog online, those dog owners who have a valid e-mail address in our Permiteyes Dog Licensing database will receive a Payment Link in their e-mail during the first week of January to renew their dog’s 2026 license. If you prefer to renew via the Town website, please go to– www.RehobothMA.gov –choose “Online Permits” under the “Citizen’s Action Center” on the homepage and choose “Dog License Renewal”. Please keep your search simple. Search street name only, not Road, Rd, RD. To narrow your search, please choose “single dog” from the “Application Type” dropdown menu (1) Owner Last Name only (2) and (3) Street “Name” or Dog “Name” only. Thank you! Once in your dog’s online record, please click the Renew button to the left of your dog’s expired license. For those dog owners with a new dog, please complete the form in your 2026 Census or stop by the Town Clerk’s office to register your dog. New dog owners have 6-months to register their dog.

Residents are requested to please send in their census forms as quickly as possible regardless of whether or not they license their dogs at this time.

Urgent Alerts – News And Announcements

Over the past few years, there has been very important information provided to those residents who have signed up for the Town’s “Urgent Alerts” and “Subscribe to News”. The Town’s “Official” notification site is Rehoboth’s town website @ https://www. rehobothma.gov/ . If important information needs to get to the residents of the Town,

we use the front page of the Town’s website; either under “News and Announcements” or “Urgent Alerts” to notify our residents. Once the information is posted to the website, we send those residents who have “Subscribed to News” an e-mail alerting them of the updated important information. Also, on the front of the Town website is a current listing of all public meetings under the “Meetings” tab, which is next to the “News” tab, in the center of the Town’s homepage. If you would like to be notified of upcoming meetings, urgent alerts, or news and announcements posted on the Town website, simply click on the “Subscribe to News” under the “Citizen Action Center” on the left side of the home page ( https://www.rehobothma.gov/ ) and complete all the requested information. For step-by-step directions on how to subscribe, please either click on “How to Subscribe to News & Alerts” under “Subscribe to News” in the “Citizen Action Center” or follow this link: https://www.town.rehoboth.ma.us/ sites/g/files/vyhlif4911/f/uploads/rehobothurgent_alert_-_flyer-final.pdf

Please do not rely solely on social media or rumors regarding important Town matters. All “Official” Town of Rehoboth alerts, meetings, and news are posted on the Town Website and sent to all subscribers to News and Alerts via the e-mail address they provide. Please “be in the know” by signing up for Subscribe to News & Alerts ~ thank you.

Town Offices Closed

The Town Offices will be closed on Wednesday, December 24th Christmas Eve and Thursday, December 25th, in observance of the Christmas Holiday. Offices will also close at Noon on Wednesday, December 31st for New Year’s Eve and closed all day Thursday, January 1, 2026 for New Year’s Day.

Thank You – Rehoboth Garden Club!

Thank you again, Rehoboth Garden Club for decorating our Town Hall with another beautiful wreath. We thank you all for all you do for so many! Thank you for making our holidays so special!

Kerrie, Jenn and I would like to wish you all a safe, happy, and healthy holiday season! We wish peace, HEALTH and prosperity to all Rehoboth residents for the New Year. It is truly an honor to serve as your Town Clerk for almost thirteen years ~ thank you all for enriching my life every day!!! Thank you all for making 2025 so enjoyable for us all. Please stay healthy and safe. Happy Holidays ~ I look forward to talking with you again in January.

Sincerely, Laura

New Vehicles at the Post Office!

Dear valued Rehoboth Postal Customers, Rehoboth Post Office has recently received 3 new NGDV (Next Generation Delivery Vehicles).

Over the course of FY26, Rehoboth will have a NGDV per rte. We need your assistance.

• Please trim back and maintain bushes, branches, and trees 3 ft before and after your mailbox, and 15ft high around the box.

• Trash cans should be placed away from the mailbox when possible.

• Please also refrain from placing any other obstructions around the mailbox.

• If you have a narrow or difficult to navigate driveway you should consider placing a parcel box near the mailbox to avoid having to retrieve packages from the post office.

• Driveways should also be maintained from overgrowth and leveled.

While we understand the undertaking we are requesting,It is so we can continue to provide you, our beloved Rehoboth customers,World Class Service.

Thank You in advance for your cooperation, Happy Holidays from all of us at the Rehoboth Post Office,

Sincerely,

David St. Laurent, Postmaster Rehoboth MA 02769 Office: 508-252-9278

Rehoboth Animal Shelter News

The Rehoboth Animal Shelter has gone to the dogs lately as kittens have been adopted and a number of stray dogs have appeared. Hank is a friendly, energetic neutered male American Staffordshire, vaccinated and tail-wagging. For more information about Hank or other adoptable animals, or to report a lost or found pet, please call the shelter at 508-252-5421, ext 126 and leave a message.

Capture the Stars: Astrophotography with Peter Cardosi

Saturday, January 17, 2026 @7:00 PM

Family-friendly (ages 12+) | FREE

Location in Rehoboth TBD | Registration Required Do you love stargazing? Are you a photography buff? Combine your passions by joining Rehoboth Land Trust for a night all about astrophotography. RLT Trustee and Vice President Peter Cardosi will share his tips and tools for taking stunning images of the night sky. Interested in astronomy since childhood, Peter has felt inspired since his retirement to dive deeper into recent advances in Electronically Assisted Astrophotography. This event will be held outside at night, so dress warmly. Registration is almost full, so sign up today at www.rehobothlandtrust.org.

Rehoboth Land Trust, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization funded by donations and run by dedicated volunteers. We are not a town committee. Learn more at www.rehobothlandtrust.org.

Three Resign from Rehoboth Finance Committee

By Joe Siegel

Three members of the Finance Committee resigned and a fourth member has been replaced. They are Chairperson Victoria Silvia, Michael McBride, Tim Maynard, and Steve Evans. Robert Gagnon is the lone remaining member.

“Per our bylaws, when a member misses half of the scheduled meetings within a certain time frame, it’s considered a vacant position,” said Town Administrator Deb Arruda.

Finance Director Sue Pimental said the members resigned due to personal commitments. New members will be appointed in the next few months before the start of budget season in March 2026.

“It’s a commitment like all other boards,” Pimental added. “All did a great job and the town was lucky to have them as long as we did.

Paul, Andrew & Brian Fixing Rehoboth water since 1986. Installers MA Lic.#13268

One of the three new Next Generation Delivery Vehicles

Sine Plumbing & Heating

Dighton-Rehoboth Reviews MCAS Scores

By Joe Siegel

The Dighton-Rehoboth School Committee reviewed the 2025 MCAS test results at their November 25 meeting. (MCAS) is the Commonwealth’s standards-based student assessment program. This report summarizes the state-level results from the spring 2025 administration of MCAS tests in English Language Arts (ELA), Mathematics, Science and Technology/Engineering (STE) in grades 5 and 8, Civics in grade 8, and high school science in grades 9 and 10.

Summary of 2025 MCAS State Results

• 51 percent of Grade 3 students met or exceeded expectations in English Language Arts. The state average was 43 percent.

• 41percent of Grade 3 students met or exceeded expectations in Mathematics. The state average was 44 percent.

•

• 48 percent of Grade 6 students met or exceeded expectations in ELA. The state average was 42 percent.

• 40 percent of Grade 6 students met or exceeded expectations in Mathematics. The state average was 41 percent.

• 62 percent of Grade 10 students met or exceeded expectations in Science. The state average was 46 percent.

• 53 percent of Grade 10 students met or exceeded expectations in ELA. The state average was 51 percent.

• 45 percent of Grade 10 students met or exceeded expectations in Mathematics. The state average was also 45 percent.

• Total enrollment for the district for the 2024-2025 year was 2, 541. Out of that number, 35.3 percent were identified as high needs. 22.1 percent were students with disabilities.

“We’re trying to shine lights on things that are working and fix things that might not be working,” D-R Assistant Superintendent Fred Souza told the school committee.

“Sometimes the results are in our favor and sometimes they are not. I just want to say you have a great team that’s working incredibly hard. The (scores) will ebb and flow. We’re not lagging behind but we’re certainly not in the front. That is the case for all of our subjects here. We’re working on a way to make our curriculum more accessible. I’m confident we got the right people in the right places that are making the right decisions.”

Anawan Fire Association

House Number Order Form

Aguiar Promoted to Sergeant

By Joe Siegel

Rehoboth K9 Officer David Aguiar was promoted to Sergeant at Monday’s Board of Selectmen meeting.

Aguiar was honored as K9 Handler of the Year in a ceremony held last May in South Yarmouth. Aguiar, who is partnered with Edo, was presented with the K9 Sergeant Sean Gannon Award. Gannon was a Yarmouth Police Officer killed in the line of duty in April 2018. He was the first K9 Narcotics Officer for the Police Department.

Aguilar became a Reserve Officer in 2015 and was promoted to full-time Patrolman in 2016. Aguilar and Edo were paired up in May 2021 when then Chief James Trombetta offered Aguilar the position of K9 Handler.

The pair is associated with the Massachusetts State Police Bomb Detection Unit as an EOD Canine Support. Aguilar and Edo assisted them every year with two major events –the Boston Marathon and July 4th Harborfest on the Esplanade.

Trombetta, who now serves as Chief of Operations for the Police Department, said he was “proud” of the things Aguilar has accomplished “and the Police Officer he’s become over the years.”

State Rep. Steve Howitt read a proclamation on behalf of the House of Representatives. Evan Gendreau, a representative for State Senator Kelly Dooner read a proclamation from the State Senate.

Selectmen Approve Sowams Heritage Project

By Joe Siegel

The Rehoboth Board of Selectmen recently gave their approval of the Sowams region in Southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island to be designated as a National Heritage Park.

Sowams is the ancestral homeland of the Massasoit Ousamequin, who welcomed the Pilgrims on 1621.

According to the Sowams website – www.sowams.org: “This is where indigenous tribes built their lives, established alliances, and safeguarded the environment. It’s where the critical relationship between the Pokanoket people and the Mayflower settlers fostered 50 years of peace, only to unravel during King Philip’s War – a conflict that left scars across the nation. Sowams Heritage Area brings these stories to life, honoring the interconnected narratives of land, water, people, and history that continue to shape our political, cultural, and social identities today. Designated by the U.S. Congress, National Heritage Areas (NHAs) are living, working landscapes that honor the important role of a region in our country’s development and celebrate its contributions to American history and culture.”

Officials from several local communities are working to preserve this heritage, including John Aubin, Town Planner for Seekonk, Dr. Charles Hartman, a retired pastor, John Hansen, Assistant Town Administrator and Community Development Director for Swansea, Chelsea Johnson, Assistant Director of the Carpenter Museum in Rehoboth, Bill Napolitano of the Taunton River Watershed Alliance, Rock Singewald from the Warren, RI Land Trust, James Moran, Chief Economic Planner for the City of East Providence, and John Larsen, Director of the Somerset Historical Society.

Aubin said the designation from Congress would “open access to funding through the National Park Service.”

“It opens dollars we’re never going to get from the state,” said Arthur Pierce of the Historical Commission.

Selectman Lenny Mills was initially reluctant to vote on the proposal until Aubin assured him and the other board members that the designation would have “absolutely no impact on private property rights.”

Blooms for a New Roof

Laynie Chappell, owner of Primose & Ruth, held a Thanksgiving floral arrangement class to raise funds for The Little Theatre of Fall River’s new roof.

Francis Hall

Rehoboth Council on Aging

27 Francis Farm Road, Rehoboth

Phone 508-252-3372

Fax 508-252-4716

Monday - Thursday

8:00am to 4:00pm

Fridays 8:00am to Noon

Breakfast

Mon / Wed / Fri From 8:30-10

Lunch

Mon / Wed @ Noon. Come join us

Trivia!

Monday at 12:45pm

Protein Information

By Tara Hammes RDN from MCOA

Thursday December 11th 10:00

Muffins & coffee served

Ugly Sweater Holiday Lunch

December 17th @ Noon

Tickets $10.00

New Years Lunch

Wednesday January7th @ Noon

Tickets $10.00

Basket Weaving Class

Monday January 12th 8-3

This class will be for a Berry Basket $50.00 for the class and supplies

Please call and reserve your seat

Piano Serenade

Fridays 10:30 - 11:00

Russell Raiche will be playing the piano for us

Book Club

The First Monday of Month at 10:00 Held in the Arcade

Join Our Walking Club

Mon-Wed-Friday 10:00AM

NEW Start time 10:00

Join our Email List

Updates during the month

COAmail@rehobothma.gov

Please also find us at https://www.rehobothma.gov/council-aging-0

Craft Supplies Needed

We have Paper Crafting Class and a Jewelry/ Resin Making. We can always use extra supplies. Scrapbooking, Cricut Supplies, die cuts, embossing folders. Jewelry making and resin supplies. We are in need of cotton, flannel, and fleece fabric for sewing projects. We are accepting yarn donations for hats & blankets.

Your donations are greatly appreciated

Meals on Wheels:

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

ACTIVITIES

Mondays

8:30-10 BREAKFAST

9:00 Barre Class $3.00 Helps with balance, strength, and posture

10:00 Walking Club

10:00 Cornhole Toss

10:00 Interval Fitness (NEW) $3.00

Timed intervals for fitness and rest focus on strength, balance, cardio, and a relaxing stretch at the end. Use of various props. All fitness levels welcome

10:30 Bocce

Noon Gert’s Café ~ Ltd seating ~ $5.00

1:00 Line Dancing $3.00

Tuesdays

9:00 Dancer-cise $3.00

10:00 Jewelry Making Class $5.00 We will be doing Glass etching, wool felting, and more. These classes will be priced accordingly

10:00 Seated Yoga Fusion $3.00 Gentle Yoga with blend of movement and breathwork

10:00 Sewing & Quilting

11:00 Functional Fitness $3.00 StrengthBalance-Cardio-Stretch with a mix of props and great music

1:00 Hi-Lo Jack

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

Wednesdays

8:30 - 10:00 Breakfast

10:00 Walking Club

10:00 Fiber Arts (Knitting & Crochet get together. Jane Williams)

10:30 Bocce

10:30 Cornhole Toss

Noon Lunch Ltd seating ~ $5.00

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

1:00-3:00 Dominoes

Thursday

9:00 Tai Chi $3.00

10:00 Drums Alive $3.00 Fun, rhythmic cardio workout using stability balls and drumsticks

11:00 Functional Fitness $3.00 StrengthBalance-Cardio-Stretch with a mix of props and great music

Noon Soup to Go

1:00-3:00 Paper Crafting Class: Card Making, Stamping, Cricut Machine

. $5.00

1:00-3:00 Watercolor Class $5.00

Friday

8:30 - 10:00 Breakfast

10:00 Walking Club

10:30 Bocce

10:30 Cornhole Toss

10:30 - 11:00 piano Serenade by Russell Raiche

As always, all pricing is a suggested donation. Please sign up for Lunch ahead of time. This helps Chef Chico plan meals

Rehoboth Public Health Nurse

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

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

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

• Wellness Clinic Wednesday 11:00-Noon

• Podiatry Clinic: Last Thursday of the month

• Blood Pressures & Glucose Screenings Please contact Geri Hamel for more information on these services.

Rehoboth Council on Aging

A Municipal Department of the Town

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

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

• Can engage in leisure, wellness, educa-

tional, and social programs that promote an enhanced quality of life and socialemotional health and well-being

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

• Can connect to their peers and community

• Can foster inter-generational relationships and shared activities

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

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

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

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

The Rehoboth Council on Aging shall:

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

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

The Seekonk Scene

From the Seekonk Town Clerk’s Office

HAPPY HOLIDAYS from the Town Clerk’s office! We hope you have a wonderful time celebrating holiday traditions with family and friends and may the New Year bring you much health and happiness.

Holiday hours for Town Hall (December/ January):

December 24th - Closing at 12:30pm

December 25th - Closed

December 31st - Closing at 12:30pm

January 1st - Closed

“I Voted” Sticker Contest

We are excited to announce a collaboration with the School Department for an upcoming “I Voted” Sticker Contest. This contest is open to all Seekonk students. For any student attending public schools, forms will be given to them by the Superintendent, Principal, or Teacher. For those students who are home schooled or attending private or trade schools, forms will be available in the Children’s Room at the Seekonk Library and Town Clerk’s Office. The specifics and deadlines for the contest are as follows:

• Open to all students.

• Must be created by the student.

• No clip art, AI generated, copyrighted images or designs will be allowed.

• Only one entry per student is permitted.

• Designs should not be political or support a particular candidate or party. Both sides of the forms must be completed by the student and their parent/guardian. All entries can be mailed or dropped off to the Town Clerk’s Office at the Seekonk Town Hall, 100 Peck Street, Seekonk, MA 02771. All entries must be received by the Town Clerk’s Office by 5:00 p.m. on January 14, 2026.

A panel of town and school officials (who do not have student(s) attending school) will review all submissions and select one finalist in each grade (K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12). The winners for each category will be announced at the February 18, 2026 Select Board meeting* (date subject to change). The winning designs will be printed and distributed to voters at the April 6, 2026 Town Election.

Fall Town Meeting News

Seekonk held its Fall Town Meeting on Monday, November 10, 2025 at the Seekonk High School. Below is a summary of the meeting and votes. A complete set of minutes can be found on the Town Clerk’s webpage under town meeting minutes.

Continued on page 14...

Kristen L’Heureux

The Town Clerk called the meeting to order at 7:09 p.m. with a quorum of over 75 registered voters (290 registered voters checked into the meeting).

Article 1 - To receive Town Officers or Committees reports.

Action on the motion: Motion passed (204Y, 9N).

Article 2 - To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds in the treasury or transfer from designated funds that have been reserved for appropriation the sums detailed below in accordance with the Financial Policies of the Town of Seekonk adopted by the Select Board, April 2021, or take any other action relative thereto.

a. The sum of $533,351.85 from Free Cash to the Stabilization Fund.

b. The sum of $533,351.85 from Free Cash to the Municipal Capital Stabilization Fund.

c. The sum of $533,351.85 from Free Cash to the Building & Infrastructure Stabilization Fund.

d. The sum of $533,351.85 from Free Cash to the Other PostEmployment Benefits (OPEB) Trust Fund.

Action on the motion: Motion passed (200Y, 28N)

Article 3 - To see if the Town will authorize the appropriate Town officials to enter into contracts for more than three years for new or continuing leases for police vehicles, as applicable

Action on Motion: Motion passed (187Y, 50N)

Article 4 - To see if the Town will vote to transfer from Free Cash or available funds in the treasury the sum of $285,000.00 for the purpose of purchasing and installing a new Fire Department station alerting system including all costs incidental.

Action on the motion 1: Motion passed (222Y, 20N)

Article 5 - To see if the Town will vote to transfer the sum of $70,000 from Ambulance Receipts for the purpose of upgrading Rescue 3 to full Advanced Life Support (ALS) capability, including the purchase and installation of a Zoll X-Series cardiac monitor, LUCAS CPR device, McGrath video laryngoscope, and other essential EMS equipment, and for all costs incidental.

Action on Motion: Motion passed (231Y, 1N)

Article 6 - To see if the Town will vote to transfer from Free Cash the sum of $43,470 to the Special Education Stabilization Fund.

Action on Motion: Motion passed (219Y, 23N)

Article 7 - To see if the Town will vote to transfer from Free Cash the sum of $85,000 for the purpose of repairing and refinishing the High School Gymnasium Floor, including all costs incidental .

Action on Motion: Motion passed (182Y, 46N)

Article 8 - To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds in the treasury or transfer from designated funds that have been reserved for appropriation, the sum of $295,000 to fund the cost elements of the first fiscal year of a three-year collective bargaining agreement between the Town and the Fraternal Order of Police, MCOP, Local #215, for a term covering the period of July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2028.

Action on Motion: Motion passed (202Y, 26N)

Article 9 - To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds in the treasury or transfer from designated funds that have been reserved for appropriation, the sum of $50,000 to fund the cost elements of the first fiscal year of a three-year collective bargaining agreement between the Town and the New England Police Benevolent Association, Inc., Local 126, for a term covering the period of July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2028.

Action on Motion: Motion passed (188Y, 30N)

Article 10 - To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds in the treasury or transfer from designated funds that have been reserved for appropriation, the sum of $150,000 to fund the cost elements of the first fiscal year of a three-year collective bargaining agreement between the Town and the International Association of Firefighters, Local 1931, for a term covering the period of July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2028.

Action on Motion: Motion passed (194Y, 18N)

Article 11 - To see if the Town will vote to transfer from the PEG Cable Access and Cable Related fund the sum of $146,865 as a grant to Seekonk Cable Access, Inc., the Town’s PEG Access Provider, to carry out its PEG Access Provider functions in FY2026.

Action on Motion: Motion passed (187Y, 42N)

Article 12 – To see if the Town will vote to transfer from the PEG Cable Access and Cable Related fund the sum of $88,569 to Seekonk Public Schools for PEG purposes and for replacement of outdated equipment at the High School TV studio used for PEG purposes, including all costs incidental.

Action on Motion (199Y, 21N)

Article 13 – To see if the Town will vote to discontinue as a public town way the roadway depicted as “Old Fall River Avenue, Discontinuance Area, Assessors Map 7, Parcel 113”, on the plan entitled: “Discontinuance Plan in Seekonk, MA Bristol County Prepared for the Town of Seekonk, MA”, dated April 24, 2025, prepared by Greenman-Pedersen, Inc. (the “Discontinuance Plan”), a copy of which is on file with the Town Clerk, said way being no longer needed as a public way, and to transfer from the Select Board for public way purposes to the Select Board for general municipal purposes, including the purpose of conveyance, and authorize the Select Board to convey, any and all land and interests in land within the discontinued Old Fall River Avenue on such terms and conditions as the Select Board sees fit, and for the purpose of confirming or otherwise establishing record rights to maintain the utilities presently located over Old Fall River Avenue, and to enter into all agreements and take all other actions necessary or appropriate to effectuate said discontinuance and to convey and acquire the foregoing land and interests in land.

Action on Motion: Motion passed (157Y, 59N) (2/3rd vote)

Article 14 – To see if the Town will vote, pursuant to M.G.L. c.40, §59, and M.G.L. c.23A, § 3E and §3F, to:

a) approve a Tax Increment Financing Agreement between the Town and Darling Development Corporation/928 Fall River Avenue LLC in the form substantially as on file with the Town Clerk (“TIF Agreement”), as may be amended by agreement of all parties, for property located at 928 Fall River Avenue which property is as described in more detail in such TIF Agreement, and which TIF Agreement provides for real estate tax exemptions at the exemption rate schedule set forth therein; and further b) authorize the Board of Selectmen to execute the TIF Agreement and approve submission to the Massachusetts Economic Assistance Coordinating Council (EACC) of the TIF Agreement and any Economic Development Incentive Program (EDIP) “Local Incentive Only Application” for EACC approval , and any necessary documents related thereto, all relating to the project as described in the TIF Agreement and related submissions; and to take such action as are necessary or appropriate to obtain EACC approval, implement those documents, and carry out the purposes of this Article.

Action on Motion: Motion failed (94Y, 137N) (2/3rd vote)

Article 15 – To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to convey the property known as “Old Town Hall”, located at 624 Taunton Avenue and shown as Assessors Map 18, Lot 16 inclusive of buildings and land, no longer needed by the

Odilia Paiva Assistant Mgr Alex Paiva Acccount Mgr

Nick Paiva Acccount Mgr

Joseph E. Paiva General Mgr

SEEKONK DENTAL

Town, on such terms and conditions as the Board of Selectmen sees fit, and to authorize the Board of Selectmen to enter into all agreements and take all other actions necessary or appropriate to effectuate the vote.

DR. FRANK CASARELLA & DR. LURI LEE

Action on Motion: Motion failed (89Y, 167N)

Article 16 – To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to convey the property known as “County Street Fire Station” located at 170 County Street, shown as Assessors Map 13, Lot 21, inclusive of buildings and land, no longer needed by the Town, on such terms and conditions as the Board of Selectmen sees fit, and to authorize the Board of Selectmen to enter into all agreements and take all other actions necessary or appropriate to effectuate the vote.

Action on Motion: Motion passed (143Y, 119N)

Article 17 – To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to convey the property known as “Firefly Golf Course” located at 320 Fall River Avenue, and 763 and 769 Arcade Avenue, consisting of approximately 55 acres, of undeveloped land identified as all of Lots 78, 100 and 101 on Seekonk Assessor Map 14, and Lot 96 on said Assessor Map 14, inclusive of buildings and land, no longer needed by the Town, on such terms and conditions as the Board of Selectmen sees fit, and to authorize the Board of Selectmen to enter into all agreements and take all other actions necessary or appropriate to effectuate the vote taken.

Action on Motion: Motion failed (20Y, 257N)

Article 18 – INDEFINITELY POSTPONED

Action on Motion: Motion passed (224Y, 10N)

Article 19 – To see if the Town will vote to accept the layout

identified and described as follows, Palmer River Road as shown on a Plan of land entitled “11 Lot Definitive Subdivision Plan of Jacob Hill Estates” Assessor’s Map 17 Lot 79 recorded with the Bristol County Northern District Registry of Deeds in Plan Book 495, Page 19-20, which was approved by the Planning Board of the Town of Seekonk on January 15, 2014, copies of which are on file with the Town Clerk, and to authorize the Board of Selectmen to acquire by gift, purchase, or eminent domain any necessary easements or other interests therein in connection therewith.

Action on Motion: Motion passed (181Y, 19N)

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Article 20 – To see if the Town will vote to accept the layout identified and described as follows, Rose Ann Court as shown on a Plan of land entitled “ Definitive Subdivision Plan of Farmland Estates” Proposed Residential Definitive Subdivision 349 & 337 Lincoln Street, Seekonk, Massachusetts, Assessor’s Map 16 Lot 52 recorded with the Bristol County Northern District Registry of Deeds in Plan Book 500, Page 19, which was approved by the Planning Board of the Town of Seekonk on September 21, 2010, copies of which are on file with the Town Clerk, and to authorize the Board of Selectmen to acquire by gift, purchase, or eminent domain any necessary easements or other interests therein in connection therewith.

Action on Motion: Motion passed (163Y, 23N)

Article 21 – To see if the Town will vote to accept the layout identified and described as follows, Berson Road as shown on a Plan of land entitled “Definitive Subdivision Plan of Berson Estates” in Seekonk, Massachusetts, Assessor’s Map 28 Lot 20 recorded with the Bristol County Northern District Registry of Deeds in Plan Book 531, Page 20, which was approved by the Planning Board of the Town of Seekonk on May 11, 2021, copies of which are on file with the Town Clerk, and to authorize the Board of Selectmen to acquire by gift, purchase, or eminent domain any necessary easements or other interests therein in connection therewith.

Action on Motion: Motion passed (177Y, 27N)

Article 22 – To see if the Town will vote to accept the layout identified and described as follows, Cooper Road as shown on a Plan of land entitled “Definitive Subdivision Plan - Final of Pine Brook Court” in Seekonk, Massachusetts, Assessor’s Map 21 Lots 18, 277, 305 recorded with the Bristol County Northern District Registry of Deeds in Plan Book 529, Page 24, which was approved by the Planning Board of the Town of Seekonk on November 24, 2020, copies of which are on file with the Town Clerk, and to authorize the Board of Selectmen to acquire by gift, purchase, or eminent domain any necessary easements or other interests therein in connection therewith.

Action on Motion: Motion passed (221Y, 22N)

Article 23 – To see if the Town will vote to accept the layout identified and described as follows, Logan Court as shown on a Plan of land entitled “Definitive Subdivision Plan of Caleb Estates” in Seekonk, Massachusetts, Assessor’s Map 6 Lot 40 recorded with the Bristol County Northern District Registry of Deeds in Plan Book 484, Page 33, which was approved by the Planning Board of the Town of Seekonk on December 13, 2011, copies of which are on file with the Town Clerk, and to authorize the Board of Selectmen to acquire by gift, purchase, or eminent domain any necessary easements or other interests therein in connection therewith.

Action on Motion: Motion passed (185Y, 10N)

Article 24 – INDEFINITELY POSTPONED

Action on Motion: Motion passed (224Y, 10N)

Article 25 – To see if the Town will vote to appropriate $1,600,000 from the Building & Infrastructure Stabilization Fund for the purchase of a parcel of land and building, to be held for general municipal purposes, located at 911 Taunton Avenue in Seekonk, consisting of approximately 3.35 acres of land identified as Lot 0106 on Seekonk Assessor Map 17, and for all costs incidental and related thereto, and to further authorize the Board of Selectmen to acquire said land and building and to enter into all agreements and execute any and all instruments as may be necessary to affect said purchase.

Action on Motion: Motion passed (221Y, 34N) (2/3rd vote)

Article 26 – Petition for the Rescission of the Vote Creating the Medeiros Farm Committee

Petition for the Rescission of the Appropriated Funding for the Medeiros Farm Project

Action on Motion: Motion failed to rescind (85Y, 148N)

Article 27 – Voter Petition

Petition for the Rescission of the Vote Creating the Medeiros Farm Committee

Action on Motion: Motion failed to rescind (76Y, 143N)

A motion was made and seconded to adjourn the Fall Town Meeting at 10:42 PM

Action on motion: Motion passed

Upcoming News and Reminders for 2026

The Annual Seekonk Town Election 2026 will be held Monday April 6, 2026. Nomination papers for offices up for election will be available in the Town Clerk’s office on December 18th. The deadline to return completed nomination papers to the Town Clerk’s office is Saturday, February 14, 2026 at 5:00PM. You must obtain a minimum of 50 signatures from Seekonk registered voters. A street address (not P.O. Box) is required from each person signing your papers. Please make sure the signatures and addresses are legible, otherwise they cannot be counted.

Elected positions for the April 6, 2026

Annual Town Election

One seat for the Board of Assessors (3-year term)

Two seats for The Library Board of Trustees (3-year term)

One seat for the Planning Board (5-year term)

One seat for the School Committee (3-year term)

Two seats for the Select Board (3-year term)

One seat for the Water Commission (3-year term)

Important Reminder2025 Year-End Reporting

Every incumbent candidate who holds public office and every non-incumbent with activity (balance, liabilities, receipts or expenditures) must file a year-end report.

Candidates and committees should use form M102. If you qualify, you can use the M109 form instead of M102. You qualify if you: 1) have no balance; 2) have no receipts or expenditures in 2025; 3) have no committee; and 4) have no liabilities. The forms can be found at https://www.ocpf.us/Publications/Forms or if you need a copy, please let us know and we will print one for you.

Absentee Ballot RequestMust Be Completed Yearly

Absentee ballot applications for 2026 are available in our office or on our website. If you want to be put on the permanent absentee ballot mailing list, please fill out the form and check off “for all elections”. If you know you will be out of town for a certain election you can request an absentee ballot for that election only, as well.

This form can be found on the Town Clerk’s webpage at https:// www.seekonk-ma.gov/280/Town-Clerk or by calling our office (508) 336-2920.

To qualify as an absentee voter:

• You will be away from your town on Election Day

• You have a religious belief that prevents you from voting at your polling location on Election Day

• You have a disability that prevents you from voting at your polling location

• You are on active military duty

• You are a U.S. citizen living outside the U.S.

• You are requesting an emergency absentee ballot due to hospitalization

• You are currently incarcerated for a reason other than a felony conviction

Annual Census

The 2026 Annual Town Census will be mailed to all households by mid-January. Please update and/or make any changes to the form, sign, and return it to us by February 28, 2025. It can be returned by mail, in-person, or leaving it in the drop box located at town hall.

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Why it is important that you return your census. The information collected is used to prove residency, update voter rolls, veterans’ benefits, birth records, help predict future school enrollment, establish precinct lines, and qualify for state/federal funding. Completing a census form does not register you to vote. If you are a registered voter, there will be a party affiliation by your name (i.e. D, R, U, etc.). Updates to your party affiliation can be made in person at our office or by going online to https://www.sec.state. ma.us/OVR/.

Important Information About Dog Licensing Procedures

The Town Clerk’s Office is now processing dog licensing ONLINE! Please visit the Town Clerk’s page on the Town of Seekonk website and select “Apply for a Dog License.” New dog licenses can be submitted any time and renewals on existing licenses for 2026 will become available on January 1st.

AOL ENTERPRISES

Firewood • Disposal • Landscaping

Demolition • Land Clearing Farming • Asphalt Repair Storm Damage Junk Vehicles

The benefits to online processing include important expiration & renewal reminders that are sent directly to your e-mail, quick & easy payments, communication directly to the Town Clerk’s team regarding the license and ability to print copies of your license any time for doggy daycare, boarding or grooming services. Payments can still be made in-person or by mail, but the licensing process does now require online registration. If you choose to mail your payment and have your license returned by mail, please include a self-addressed stamped envelope for return.

Fees for licensing: Spayed/Neutered = $10 per dog, Un-Spayed/ Un-Neutered = $20 per dog. Licensing fees are waived for residents over the age of 70, however late fees & violation fines will still apply.

Massachusetts General Law requires dogs to be licensed annually, with proof of current rabies vaccination. SEEKONK DOG TAGS EXPIRE MARCH 31st. Failure to comply will result in issuance of M.G.L. violation & fine. If your license remains delinquent after May 31st, late fees of $25 per dog will also apply.

If you have any difficulty completing your application online, please call us and we are happy to walk you through the process over the phone OR you can stop by our office with your valid rabies certificate and we can assist you at our kiosk station.

Reminders

If you have any questions regarding your taxes, please contact the Tax Collector’s Office at 508-336-2930.

Mike Plaut

Residential & Commercial Equipment Available

(508) 761-8078 • (774) 999-9060

Job Too Big or Small, Free Estimates

Disposal Bills:

Fiscal Year 2026 disposal bills were mailed on September 18, 2025 and were due October 21st ($315.00 per unit). Demand notices were mailed November 18th and are due by December 2nd. Please contact the Collector’s Office at 508-336-2930, if you have not paid the prior years disposal for an updated balance.

Motor Vehicle Excise Tax:

Motor Vehicle Excise Tax commitment #6 will be issued on December 8th and due January 7, 2026.

Motor Vehicle Excise Tax commitment #5 is now on demand and due by December 22nd.

AMERICANA ANTIQUE AUCTION

Motor Vehicle Excise Tax 1st , 2nd, 3rd and 4th commitments are now with the Deputy Collector (781-944-8504).

Estate and Personal Property Taxes:

Further collection notices will be issued for any unpaid Fiscal Year 2025 balances. Fiscal Year 2026 Preliminary Real Estate and Personal Property Tax Bills were mailed the first week in July.

The first quarter payment was due by August 4, 2025.

The second quarter was due by November 3, 2025

Actual Real Estate and Personal Property Tax Bills will be mailed at the end of December

The third quarter will be due February 3, 2026 and fourth quarter will be due May 4, 2026.

We would like to wish everyone Happy Holidays and hope they are filled with health, laughter, family and friendship.

As always, please contact us (508) 3362920 or by email at townclerk@seekonk-ma. gov should you have any questions. Thank you.

~Kristen and Shandra

*Sustainable Seekonk*

By Christine Zadykovich, Recycling Coordinator @ Seekonk DPW 508-336-7407

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

Second Saturdays @ Special Recycling Shed! Even though Bulky Waste Pass Days take a break for winter, the Special Recycling Shed at TARF will remain open each month throughout the year, ONLY on the 2nd Saturday of each month 8AM-12PM, and accepts anti-freeze, all light bulbs, all batteries, all mercury items, radioactive smoke/carbon detectors, ink/toner cartridges, EMPTY aerosol & co2 cans, and string lights & extension cords - free of charge. Solar panels & propane tanks w/blue $10 bulky stickers as well.

Seekonk Transfer Station/TARF (351 Fall River Ave) open year-round Mon-Thu 7am-3pm (Fri & Sat varies seasonally-check website or call) for drop off of yard waste (leaves, grass, twigs). Bulky Waste Pass Days pause for the winter and start back up in the spring: Mar 14, Apr 11, May 9. Passes are $30 and can be purchased at the DPW offices.

Food Waste Compost Collection at TARF: Black Earth Compost collection where residents can bring household food waste. Acceptable items include: fruit & vegetable scraps, egg shells, bread, cereal, meat & bones, wooden chopsticks & toothpicks, coffee grinds & filters and more. See BlackEarthCompost.com for a full list and tips on collection & transport. You can dump food waste directly into the bins or use certified compostable bags-no plastic bags please!

Seekonk DPW Offices (871 Taunton Ave) has textile collection bins & a Terracycle collection shed in the parking lot, and small rechargeable batteries/cell phone collection bin and eye glasses collection inside the lobby. String lights & extension cords are also accepted anytime. Bulky Waste Pickup stickers available for the

2nd & 4th Weds of each month for most items, 3rd Tues for metal/ electronics, & 3rd Weds for mattresses/boxsprings. There is also a mail in form available online if you’re unable to come into the office during office hours. Christmas trees will be picked up during the month of January-please remove all decorations.

Sustainability Survey: The Recycling Committee wants to hear from you! There is a survey posted on the Recycling Committee page at www.Seekonk-MA.gov please help us understand what you’re interested in, what you need help with and what you’d like to see.

Don’t Trash It! Consider donating items still usable-post a free CURB ALERT on social media, or search donation near me for pickup if you can’t drop off at any local resource like Savers, Goodwill, 4 Echoes or Angel’s Care Closet. If items are broken/no longer usable, pick up a special recycling packet at DPW or town website for FREE recycling resources-especially for electronics which contain valuable materials that can be reused/recycled when handled properly.

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

Recycling Tip of The Month: Most of that mess from the holidays is truly trash - the majority of wrapping paper, gift bags, bows, ribbon, greeting cards and plastic packaging is NOT RECYLEABLEso please make sure it goes into a blue bag and in the trash. Please only recycle clean & empty: plastic containers (cup/jug/jar/bottle), glass bottles/jars, tin cans/pie plates, and un-lined paper/cardboard. *Please remember to recycle right, and…. Reduce-Reuse-Recycle (in THAT order!)*

SCHULTHEISS

Tree & Landscape

Friends of Friends Community Services, Inc

Brochure for Friends of Friends Community Services, Inc. was mailed to our Seekonk neighbors last week requesting donations to help provide assistance to those in need.

Please consider submitting your tax-deductible donation before the end of the year.

Whether you can contribute time, talents, or funds, we value your help as we meet the needs of our Seekonk friends and neighbors. Let us hear from you!

If you, or someone you know is interested in joining Friends of Friends Community Services, Inc, please call Seekonk Human Services at 508-336-8772.

Seekonk Animal Shelter News

Snow White is a sweet 9-year-old calico who was found as a stray. She’s a quiet, gentle girl who doesn’t mind being petted, but she’s shy and seems to be sad in her new environment. With a loving home and some patience, we think she will blossom. We don’t know how she gets along with the other cats…we will test her once she is more comfortable.

Snow White deserves a caring home where she can feel safe and loved. If you would like to meet her, please call us at 508-3366663.

Seekonk Land Trust

Abundant Autumn Activities

Mushroom Workshop 10/4/25

About 25 people attended a sold out “Mushroom Excursion” when the Land Trust partnered with Osamequin Farm to host Jonathan Kranz, MA Audubon Field Naturalist and VP of Boston Mycological Club as he led a woodland walk. Along the way, he pointed out the most delectable edibles, those that were toxic, and some beautiful mushrooms of southern New England. Participants were taught safe and responsible foraging methods, the basics of mushroom identification, and other tips, tricks, and secrets to safe mushroom hunting.

Workday 10/5/25

The Land Trust and Seekonk Scouts removed trash at our Tower Road and Vineyard Road properties. Included in the days haul were old tires, a wet mattress, and the hood of a camper van! While exploring the property, the group also enhanced the existing wildlife trails. Land Trust workdays allow people to meet new friends, get some exercise, and help steward Seekonk’s natural spaces!

CLEANUP 11/9/25

SLCT partnered with Scout Troops 1 and 9 for a work day at the 10-acre Cushing Conservation Area. The competed tasks included spreading wood chips, clearing brush from established trails, and prep work for new trail segments. The Land Trust invites you to take a walk on these newly developed trails on Chestnut Street

Snow White

The Land Trust and Seekonk Scouts

SLCT partnered with Scout Troops 1 and 9 for a work day

At Doorways, We Give Thanks

Doorways volunteers from “Team Hop” braved a cold and wet morning to distribute turkeys with all the trimmings to our neighbors in need. A total of 84 households were provided with Thanksgiving meals, thanks to the generosity of our donors and the dedication of our volunteers.

In this season of Thanksgiving, as we pause to reflect on the many blessings that we have been given, the Doorways community would like to take a moment to thank our supporters, in Seekonk and beyond, for their generous support of our mission to serve the less fortunate among our friends and neighbors. In the past year, the Doorways food pantry provided food assistance for over 5,000 individuals and distributed almost 10,000 bags of food in our effort to assist the less fortunate among our neighbors. Some households shopped weekly, others only once or twice, but every time one of those families made a visit, it eased the stress of soaring food prices and helped to maintain their wellbeing. Together, we are making a difference in their lives.

We are grateful for BSA Troops 1 & 9, Cub Scout Troop 88, the Letter Carriers of the Seekonk Post Office, local police and firefighters, the students at our schools and the congregations at our churches for the many food drives that support our mission. We are grateful for the many local businesses and civic organizations that support us year upon year. We are grateful for the volunteers who staff our ministry. And finally, we are grateful for the hundreds of people who drop off food donations, or write a check, so that we can continue to fight food uncertainty in our community. May God bless you all.

The Grist Mill Delivers for Doorways

We salute the Grist Mill Restaurant for their Thankful Thursdays in support of local charities, and for a very successful “Fill a Truck” food drive for the Doorways food pantry. A great deal of food was collected to help keep pantries full during the winter months to come.

Doorways volunteers from “Team Hop” braved a cold and wet morning to distribute turkeys with all the trimmings to our neighbors in need.

The Grist Mill knows how to be a good neighbor!

Seekonk to Set New Tax Rates

By Joe Siegel

Town officials met on November 12th to set new tax rates for 2026.

According to Lydia Cordeiro, Town Assessor, FY’2026 total residential values increased by 7.2 percent from last year. FY’2026 total commercial values increased by 2.1 percent. Industrial values increased by 3.8 percent from last year. (Seekonk Fiscal year is from July 1,2025 - June 30, 2026)

The current residential tax rate is $12.35. The current commercial/industrial rate is $26.35. The current personal property rate is $26.31.

The Select Board approved a shift of 1.745 with a 10 percent commercial exemption.

With a 1.745 percent shift in the residential tax factor, anyone who owns a home worth $375,000 will pay $4,601 in taxes. Anyone

who owns a home worth $475,000 will pay $5,828 in taxes.

The median home value is $558,473. The previous year’s amount was $521,924.

Cordeiro also presented a list of the top ten taxpayers for the FY’25 year. Algonquin Gas Transmission paid $1,006,012.84 for personal property. Others on the list included ET Seekonk, LLC with $848,821.26, RI Seekonk Holdings LLC, the owner of Greenbrier Condominiums with $765,201.46, Seekonk Square Realty with $738,474.56, Seekonk Shopping Center which owns BJ’s, $702, 928.41, Massachusetts Electric with $556,477.84, Eversource Energy which paid $542,024,15, and S/J/L Commerce Way, LLC which owns Target Plaza, $349,111.15.

In addition, 17 commercial properties qualified for small commercial exemptions. These exemptions are granted to businesses with less than 10 employees and an assessed valuation of less than $1 million. The exemption does not exceed 10 percent of the value.

The state’s Department of Revenue reviews and approves the town’s values annually, completing a full audit or classification every five years. If the town’s values are not deemed “market value” they will not be approved, Cordeiro added.

Dr. Lisa Daft and Dr. Jared Stubbs

Are pleased to announce Dr. Chris Vanderpool has joined our family and cosmetic dental practice. Providing comprehensive dental care in Seekonk, MAfor more than 35 years. We welcome new patients! Dr. Lisa Daft

Opponents Fail to Stop Medeiros Farm Project

By Joe Siegel

Opponents of the Medeiros Farm project were unsuccessful in their attempt to rescind $825,000 in funding at Monday’s Town Meeting. 85 voted in favor, with 148 in opposition.

The town’s legal counsel noted a portion of the $825,000 has already been spent with contracts signed to provide for services. Rescinding those funds would potentially open the town up to legal liability for breach of contract, said attorney Joseph Fair.

Town Administrator Shawn Cadime said the Select Board has entered into a contract for $216,000 for OPM (Office of the Project Manager) services. “We’re in the process of going out for designer services, so what was approved at the last town meeting was for design services,” Cadime explained. “That’s going to give us detailed construction documents and design for that property. No construction will take place. It has to come back to Town Meeting. At that point we will have a total dollar amount associated with the project if it’s phased or not phased, that will be presented. We’re looking to do the studies that are being requested.”

After the studies are completed and presented, Town Meeting would then need to appropriate additional money for the project, Cadime added.

The Town of Seekonk bought the property for $2 million. At the May 2023 Town Meeting, the Town voted to appropriate $150,000 from the Community Preservation Fund to seek, hire, and direct a consultant to develop a master plan for the Medeiros Farm project at Elm Street and Lincoln Street. A seven member committee was appointed to oversee the project.

The Medeiros Farm Recreation and Park Master Plan outlines four objectives: active recreation, passive recreation, historic preservation, and a Community Park.

Another article proposed to rescind the vote to form the Medeiros Farm Committee. That measure failed with 76 votes in favor and 143 in opposition.

At the committee’s September 29 meeting, residents expressed concerns about multiple soccer fields being placed on the land.

Ken Kazarian, who opposes the project, has requested for more studies to be conducted.

“Nothing can be done without funding,” said David Sullivan, Chairman of the Medeiros Farm Committee. “It seems to be counterproductive for what they’re trying to look for.”

“We gave the (committee) $150,000,” Kazarian said. “From that, they should have been able to come up with a plan, a couple of plans, and a cost for this project. This is going to be a very expensive project and they’re not telling you how much it’s going to cost.”

Other speakers expressed reservations about the way the committee members were appointed by the Select Board.

“The process, as defined in the warrant, was not followed,” said Doreen Taylor. “There’s a lot of questions still pending about the Master Plan for this project.”

Sandra Phillips Honored

By Joe Siegel

Sandra Phillips, a longtime employee of the Police Department, was recently honored for her work by the Seekonk Library Trust. Phillips was presented with the Sharon St. Hilaire Community Service award, named after the former library director who passed away in 2011.

The award seeks to recognize a community volunteer or a public employee who has distinguished themselves in serving the citizens of Seekonk.

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Phillips was first hired as a Matron for the Police Department in 1995. Her duties as a matron include being called to assist with watching, processing, and transporting female prisoners. “Sandra was one of the most reliable matrons for years and remains a valuable resource,” said Patty Pomerleau, Chair of the Library Trust. “Sandra was also an integral part of our McDuff program for years. She embraced this role, volunteering to dress in the costume for countless parades and community events.”

Phillips helped to secure grants for the Police Department, as well as other departments. She has volunteered at various policerelated fundraisers. Phillips is also member of CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) and has represented the organization at events.

Firefly Properties Discussions

Highlight Seekonk’s Long-Term Vision

Seekonk officials and residents continue to engage in energetic discussions about the future of the Firefly properties—55 acres of land purchased by the Town in 2024 with an eye toward open space preservation and potential community use. While recent Town Meeting votes declined to authorize a sale, the conversations reflect strong civic participation and a shared commitment to shaping the town’s long-term future.

At the November 2024 Town Meeting, residents approved purchasing the former “Firefly Golf Course” and adjoining parcels at 320 Fall River Avenue and 763/769 Arcade Avenue for $6.9 million. The land, previously owned by developer Charles Tapalian, has been seen as a valuable opportunity for open space, recreation, and potential future school-related needs.

Throughout recent meetings, members of the Select Board emphasized that exploring options—including possible sales—was intended to give the town flexibility, not to impose a predetermined plan. Board member Chris Zorra explained that the goal has always been responsible planning, noting, “It’s about giving the Town options, to plan responsibly, stay flexible, and make decisions that serve Seekonk’s long-term needs and residents’ best interests.” He added that interest from local businesses and abutters was simply part of evaluating what opportunities might benefit taxpayers and the community.

Board Chairperson Michelle Hines also stressed that the board acted in response to community input when the land was first purchased. “People need to look at both sides,” she said. “They think we’re trying to pull something over on them. We bought a piece of property because the town outcry was outrageous so we did something about it.” She reiterated that discussions about the property's future remain open and focused on community benefit.

At a subsequent Town Meeting, residents strongly favored keeping the land for now. Despite an offer of $10 million from an

interested buyer, voters rejected the sale 257–20, underscoring a preference to retain the land for potential public uses. Some residents highlighted the importance of planning for future school needs, with Amy Lyons noting, “We have Hurley Middle School falling into disrepair, you have two elementary schools that are completely at capacity. The town is quickly finding themselves needing another school.”

Even amid differing opinions, officials consistently emphasized transparency and trust. Board member Michael Healy expressed hope that voters would continue to consider the full range of information available. “We can only bring things forward,” he said. “Hopefully people will have some faith in us… They don’t really understand the whole picture.”

Residents also weighed in on related articles involving other town-owned buildings. Voters declined to authorize the sale of the historic Old Town Hall, with many expressing interest in possible community-focused uses. As Hines remarked, “I can see in the future we may have a couple of needs for it.” Board member Pam Pozzi added that the building could serve as a museum, art center, or meeting space.

In contrast, voters did approve the sale of the former County Street Fire Station and supported a series of fiscal measures and capital improvements, including funding for DPW expansion, school and town facility upgrades, public safety enhancements, and stabilization funds. These actions demonstrate the community’s strong investment in maintaining and improving public infrastructure.

Overall, the lively debate surrounding the Firefly properties reinforces Seekonk’s dedication to thoughtful, community-driven decision-making. Whether the land ultimately becomes a recreational asset, a school site, or preserved open space, the ongoing conversations highlight an engaged town working together to build a positive and sustainable future.

Seekonk Pays Tribute to Veterans

By Joe Siegel

Seekonk residents gathered on Veterans Day to pay tribute to the men and women who have served their country in the military. “We give thanks to all veterans who serve their country honorably during war or peacetime, thank you for your service,” said Veterans Service Officer James LaFlame, who praised the work of Seekonk’s Veterans Council.

For the fifth year, a “rolling parade” preceded the ceremony at the Veterans Memorial Park on Newman Avenue.

Joseph Raez, a member of the Seekonk Veterans Council, read a proclamation signed by Governor Maura Healey.

Other speakers included State Rep. Steve Howitt, R-Seekonk, E.J. McQuade, the Director of the Providence VA, and poet Margie Rieske.

Chaplain John Amaral delivered the Invocation.

Kate Terrien sang the National Anthem.

LaFlame read off the names of those veterans who were killed in action.

High School Pool Faces Possible Closure

The pool at Seekonk High School faces closure unless the school’s air handling unit is replaced. The system is at the end of its life and requires frequent maintenance.

“Without a functioning air han -

By Joe Siegel

dling unit, the pool will become unusable due to the buildup of toxic chemicals,” School Business Administrator Ryan McGee noted.

Jim Roy, the Supervisor for Buildings and Grounds for the district, explained the air handling unit dehumidifies and heats the entire pool area. “I’m losing all the freon,” Roy said. “It’s very expensive to replace all the freon. The chlorine eats up all the metals over the years. After 25 years, it’s at the end of its life.”

McGee was seeking $725,000 for the purchase of a new air handling unit. The Select Board declined to place the item on the warrant for the Fall Town Meeting last month. The price could end up being lower than $725,000. Roy said the project has to go out to bid first.

“It gets a lot of use,” said Principal William Whalen, noting the pool is used not only by the swim team and swim club, but by the Marine Science class, the business class, and lifeguarding classes as well. The pool is in demand by other school districts. “Our school team co-opts with a few other schools,” Whalen continued. “They’re coming here every day from Swansea and from Somerset.”

If the pool closes, Whalen notes no alternative locations have been proposed.

“We don’t have a budget for this if we close it down,” Roy said, noting the swim club pays for all the chemicals used for the pool. “You can’t just shut the pool down because it’s 12 feet deep. It’s in the water table. Even if you drain it, there’s still going to be about four feet of water in the pool. Per the health department, you can’t have stagnant water in the building so you still got to dehumidify (the area). It’s a safety issue when you have a pool that’s empty, you’ve got to close it off,” Roy added.

Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell explained that the school department has focused on making the pool a source of community engagement. Trained lifeguards provided swim lessons to children and adolescents. “If the community still views (the pool)

as a resource, we would like to keep it in play,” Kidwell said last October. “I think it’s something that makes Seekonk High unique, something that we’re proud of, and it’s something that we can use more effectively.”

“We are trying to provide quality programming that other school districts don’t have,” said School Committee Chair Robert Gerardi, adding the use of the pool for athletic competitions and other events is a source of revenue.

Seekonk School Enrollment Remains Flat

By Joe Siegel

Despite continued population growth, Seekonk Public Schools enrollment remains flat, according to statistics provided by NESDEC (New England School Development Council).

The report stated: “The NESDEC enrollment projection fell within 10 students of the K-12 total, 1,945 students projected vs. 1,955 enrolled. Note: Ungraded students are not included in K-12 total. Births increased by 13 from a previous ten-year average of 112 to a projected average of 125. In most districts, Grades 1-8 are very stable in enrollments. However, there have been increases in 6 of the 8 most recent years, leading to a net increase averaging 20 students per year.”

“Over the next three years, Grades K-5 enrollments are projected to decrease by 27 students, Grades 6-8 enrollments are projected to increase by 16 students, and Grades 9-12 enrollments are projected to increase by 30 students, as students move through the grades.”

NESDEC noted the total enrollment for the 2024-2025 school year was 1,975 students in grades K- 12. The enrollment for the 2025-2026 school year was projected to be 1,960. For the 20152016 school year, total enrollment was 1,952.

“It’s not going down from where we are right now,” Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell said at the November 3 school committee meeting. “On the plus side, there isn’t a huge increase (in students).”

Kidwell added total district enrollment is 2,002 students. There are 581 at Aitken Elementary, 432 at Martin Elementary, 500 at Hurley Middle School and 489 at the high school.

According to World Population Review, Seekonk has a 2025 population of 16,044. Seekonk is currently growing at a rate of 0.83 percent annually and its population has increased by 3.28 percent since the most recent census, which recorded a population of 15,534 in 2020.

NESDEC has provided projections for the next 10 years. Seekonk school enrollment is projected to be 1,947 for the 20352036 school year.

“One interesting point is in the methodology of the study: it’s strongly based upon construction permit trends,” Kidwell noted. “If a larger development is permitted, whether single family or multi-family construction, the population of our schools would change accordingly. A development like Greenbriar 1 brings approximately 120 new students to the district.”

“A new neighborhood of single-family homes could also have a sizable impact on our enrollment, depending on lot size and bedrooms. Mixed-use development with studio and one- or twobedroom apartments would have the least impact. In the time period that NESDEC researched for these projections, there is no projected impact from any known construction permitting.”

Seekonk Human Services

The center is open Monday - Thursday 8:15am - 4:00pm and Friday 8:15am - 12:00pm. We welcome all to come and enjoy the activities and companionship at Seekonk Human Services.

Holiday Hours

• Closing at 12:00pm on Wednesday, December 24, 2025

• Closed on Thursday, December 25, 2025

• Closing at 12:00pm on Wednesday, December 31, 2025

• Closed on Thursday, January 1, 2026

Holiday Assistance Program

Sponsor a Senior

Seekonk Human Services will work with community members to help bring a personal touch to senior citizens. The goal is to provide seniors with outside contact and gifts to let them know they are not forgotten and alone.

All seniors utilizing this program will remain anonymous. If you are a Seekonk senior or know a Seekonk senior in need of some holiday cheer, please call Human Services at 508-336-8772. For anyone who would like to sponsor a senior, please contact our office via phone at 508-336-8772.

Holiday Bells

Monday, Dec 8, 2025 at 2:00pm

Accepting

237 Winthrop Street, Rehoboth Junction of Routes 44 and 118

The holiday season should be a time of joy with your loved ones. However, for some, that isn’t the case. Often times, the holidays are geared towards children and families, and those who are on their own tend to get left out. Human Services will be collecting donated gifts and items to provide to those seniors who might not have close family, have a fixed income or both. Included items may consist of slippers, clothing items, hygiene products, reading materials, card games, word puzzles, gift cards and Seekonk trash bags. Please feel free to think outside the box. Homemade items such as blankets, scarves, hats and cards are great options.

Join us to celebrate the holidays as we welcome the Southcoast Bell Ringers! The Southcoast Bell Ringers will be bringing holiday cheer with their performance. This group of performers will be playing holiday songs that will bring a smile to your face! Preregistration is required.

Christmas Carols

Wed, Dec 10, 2025 at 1:00pm

Come join us for a special event. This year we’re having a group of children perform Christmas Carols for us. This should bring you happiness and joy listening to these children perform for you. There will be light refreshments served for all who attend. Preregistration is required.

Homemade Cookie Swap

Monday, Dec 15, 2025 at 2:00pm

Gather your cookies, big and small. It’s time to swap and share with all. Include a recipe with them, in case any of our friends have allergies. Bring ten bags of four sugary treats. Join the fun and swap your sweets! Sign up at the front desk. Preregistration is required.

Book Club

Tuesday, Dec 16, 2025 at 10:00am

For December come join the discussion of, “The Lioness of Boston” book by Emily Franklin. “The Lioness of Boston”, is a historical novel that chronicles the life of Isabella Stewart Gardner, an influential art collector and founder of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston. The group will be led with discussion questions, but feel free to bring your own. Preregistration is required.

Holiday Party

Wed, Dec 17, 2025 at 11:30am

A Rhode Island native, Lady D loves to perform locally for all. Lady D is a multi-genre vocalist (jazz standards, Motown, Do-Wop, Disco, Smooth R&B, and Pop). She is known

for singing in local restaurants in RI and MA. She is sure to get you in the Holiday Spirit. Lunch will be a Ham Dinner. The fee for residents is $10.00 and non-residents is $13.00. Preregistration is required.

Seekonk Veterans’ Coffee Hour

Monday, Dec 22, 2025 at 2:00pm

Come and join our Veterans Service Officer, James LaFlame for a Coffee Hour. This our newest monthly event for our Veterans to enjoy some time together. If anyone is interested in coming to this activity, please call us to register. We will also let you know what the discussion will be and who will be attending this event with James LaFlame.

The next Seekonk Veterans’ Coffee hour will be on January 12, 2026 at 2:00pm. We will have more information in January’s newsletter on what the interesting topic will be for that event. If there is a topic or a special guest speaker you would like to have attending for January, please let us know and we will try our best for that activity.

Healthy Eating - Wellness Presentation

Monday, Dec 29, 2025 at 2:00pm

With people every year thinking about their New Year’s resolutions for getting healthier, we will be having a presentation hosted by our Public Health Nurse, Lisa Valente, RN, CDOE. Lisa’s presentation will be with a Registered Dietitian, who will be able to share some healthy ways to a healthier and better way of living. Preregistration is required.

Community Support Group

Join Melissa Stefanik with Bristol Hospice for a monthly Community Support Group. Growing older can bring unique joys, but also some challenges. Come share your experiences and find comfort in community all while receiving encouragement, resources, and practice tips. Topics to include grief, caregiver support, senior community resources and more. Community Support Group will be held every 4th Tuesday of the month at 10:00am. Preregistration is required.

Women’s Lunch

Wed, January 7, 2026 at 11:30am at Olive Garden, 1240 Newport Ave, South Attleboro

This group meets the 1st Wednesday of every month. Everything is Dutch treat. If you are interested in joining for good food and good conversation, while supporting our local restaurants, please call the office. Cash payment is preferred. Preregistration is required.

Blood Pressure & Glucose Clinic

Wed, Dec 17, 2025 - 9:00 - 11:00am

Join us for our free monthly blood pressure and glucose screenings. Walk-ins welcome. Provided by Seekonk’s Public Health Nurse.

Let’s Learn Together!

Tuesday, Dec 24, 2025 at 2:30pm

Do you have questions about using your smartphone or tablet? Bring them to the Tech Help Hour. The goal of this session is to help each other learn how to use technology better. There is no set agenda. This program is provided by Seekonk Public Library staff. Bring your own tablet, phone or laptop. Please make sure your device is fully charged. Preregistration is required.

Learning Mahjong

Thursdays - 10:00am - 12:00pm

Have you ever been mesmerized by the clinking of Mahjong tiles or the camaraderie of players around a table? Learning Mahjong is more than just mastering a game - it’s about embracing a rich tradition and connecting with others. So, why not come to our Senior Center to start this exciting journey and dive into this centuries-old game of skill and strategy. Preregistration is required.

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 applications accepted November 1, 2025 until April 30, 2026.

Income Guidelines: 4 Week Income: for 1 person is $3,982, for 2 people is $5,208, for 3 people is $6,433, and for 4 people is $7,659.

Income Guidelines: 4 Week Fixed: for 1 person is $4,314, for 2 people is $5,642, for 3 people is $6,970 and for 4 people is $8,297.

Tuesday Luncheon at 12:00pm

Seekonk Human Services has partnered with The Hamilton Diner to offer weekly lunches! Lunches will cost $7 for residents and $8 for nonresidents. The menu will be available at the office and on Facebook. On the last Tuesday of each month, we will be celebrating Seekonk Senior’s birthday. On your birth month you will only pay $2.00 for that lunch (Seekonk residents only).

Nutritional Meals to Go

Tues / Wed / Thurs

Bristol Elder Services provides nutritional meals for lunch on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays to go. Meals come completely cooked and prepackaged. Meals need to be ordered the day before by 9:30am. Suggested donation of $2.25 per meal which will be due at the time of pickup. The December menu is available at our office and on our Facebook page.

Snowflake Social

Wed, January 14, 2026 at 11:30am

The winter seems to drag with the cold days and dark nights so why not break up the winter blues with a Snowflake Social. Come on down for good company and entertainment by Dave Valerio. Lunch will be pizza. The fee for residents is $10.00 and non-resents is $13.00. Preregistration is required and opens December 15th.

Book Club

Tues, January 20, 2026 at 10:00am

For January come join the discussion of, “Canary Girls” book by Jennifer Chiaverini. The group will be led with discussion questions, but feel free to bring your own. Preregistration is required.

Basic Beginner ASLSign Language Class

Wednesdays - 9:30am - 11:30am

This is a word for word ASL class. You will learn words, sentences and choruses. Class will meet every Wednesday, starting January 21, 2026 - March 18, 2026. You will use the book, “The Joy of Signing”. The book will be available for $6.00 the first day of class. Class size is limited. Please contact the office to sign up.

Larry Houser - Team Trivia

Mon, January 21, 2026 at 1:00pm

Come join Larry Houser for Team Trivia! Not-so-hard questions about just about everything -movies, music, animals, old expressions, advertising from the 1960s and 70s. Come as a team of 2, 3 or 4 or come alone and we’ll find a team for you! Gift card prizes to all players on the winning team. Preregistration is required and opens December 15th.

Mind-Body Wellness Presentation

Mon, January 26, 2026 at 2:00pm

Come join us for this presentation. We will be having a presentation hosted by our Public Health Nurse, Lisa Valente, RN, CDOE. Mind-Body Wellness is a holistic approach to health that acknowledges the

profound connection between an individual’s mental and physical well-being. Preregistration is required and opens December 15th.

Healthy Aging - Lunch & Learn

Wed, January 28, 2026 at 11:30am

“Seed Oils” for healthy aging! Bristol Aging and Wellness Registered Dietitian, Dawn DiMarco will let you know if Seed Oils are good or bad for you. The presentation will be about debunking common nutrition advice seen across television and in the media. Most nutrition advice in the media is not accurate. If you are looking for nutrition advice, always ask a Registered Dietitian. The menu will be: Beef Stroganoff, egg noodles, peas, snowflake roll, drink and dessert Preregistration is required and opens December 15th.

Foxwoods Casino

Tuesday, February 10, 2026

Price: $41.00 Per Person

Depart 8:45am Return Approx. 5:15pm

No one offers more gaming choices than Foxwoods Resort Casino, the internationally recognized gaming destination. With its six casinos, Foxwoods offers more than 7,400 slot machines, 388 table games, and the world’s largest bingo hall. Bingo starts at 10:30am. Keno lovers can play the ever-popular Keno throughout the property, as well as in a comfortable Keno lounge. Foxwoods offers many dining options. You can also enjoy the 300,000 square foot indoor Tanger Outlet Mall at Foxwoods!! 80 discount stores and casino fun make for a great day!! Lunch on your own. Trip includes: Deluxe motorcoach transportation, driver

gratuity, casino time: 10:00am - 4:00pm. Full Payment due upon at registration.

Telephone Reassurance Program

Our office will make a telephone call to an individual’s home at approximately the same time each day Monday through Friday (during our operating business hours only). This program is designed to connect people in need with ongoing, caring human contact and conversation. If we do not receive an answer, we will call back shortly after. If we do not receive an answer the second time, Public Safety will be called to check on the individual’s status. The Telephone Reassurance Program provides a peace of mind for the individual and their loved ones. This program is designed for senior citizens, disabled persons and shut-ins living in Seekonk who may be at risk of loneliness, social isolation, illness or injury. If you, or you know someone you know is interested in this program, please call Nicole at Human Services at 508-336-8772.

Medical Loan Closet

Our FREE Medical Loan Closet is available for Seekonk residents. Our inventory is dependent on donated items received, but may be limited based on need and space. For more information, please call 508-3368772 *30 Day Rental

Exercise Classes

Mondays

Movement & Meditation 10am

Strength & Cardio 1pm

Tuesdays

Drums Alive 9am

Wednesdays

Stability and Balance 8:30am

Drums Alive 9:30am

Thursdays

Mat Exercise 9am

Movement & Meditation 10am

Fridays

Dance Cardio 9:15am

Tai Chi 10:30am

*All activities are subject to pre-registration

Games

Play an old favorite or learn something new!

• Canasta - Mondays at 11am. A card game of the Rummy family

• Backgammon & Checkers - Tuesdays at 2pm.

• Hi-Low Jack (Pitch) - Tues & Thurs at 1pm. Win the game by having the highest card played in the trump suit

• Mahjong - Wed at 1pm. Mahjong is a game of skill and chance that originated in China

• Cribbage - Thurs at 11am. The first person to peg 121 points at the end of the board is the winner

• BINGO - Thurs at 1pm. Regular games $1.00 for 6 games. Specials $2.00 per game. A game of chance played with cards having numbered squares corresponding to numbers drawn at random

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.

The center is open Monday -Thursday 8:15am - 4:00pm and Friday 8:15am12:00pm. Come and enjoy the activities and companionship at your center. Join our email list! Things are changing 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 Zoom and virtual programs.

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

News and Notes from... Blanding Library

By Leslie Patterson

December Events

• Sharon from Brilliant Dahlia will lead a workshop on making a holiday greens centerpiece on Wed. Dec. 10 at 6:30. Participants should bring a small to medium-sized bowl and small clippers. You may also bring greenery from your property. Registration is required. Call 508-252-4236.

• PSYbel Dance will perform in a fundraiser for the library at 4:30 on Sat. Dec. 13. Call the library for more information.

• Elvis the Elf on the Shelf will be loose in the library from December 1-25. Stop in and see what mischief he’s up to!

• A big thank you to Sousa Family Farm for their generous donation of pumpkins, gourds and mums for our autumn activities.

Gingerbread Houses

Our annual “make your own gingerbread house” event will return on Tues. Dec. 9 and Wed. Dec. 10 from 3:30 to 5. Children ages 5 to 12 will have a chance to decorate their own gingerbread house as we provide the house and some candy for decorating. You may also bring your own candy decorations but no peanuts please! Registration is required. Call the library at 508-252-4236. This program is made possible by the Friends of the Blanding Library.

Collecting Toiletries in December

Once again, we will be collecting toiletry items for the Rehoboth Food Pantry in December. Bring in your donations of soap, lotion, toothpaste etc. to put on or under the Christmas tree at the library. The Blanding is also a collection point for food donations to the Rehoboth food pantry.

Story Times for Kids

Story Times for children ages 3 and up with Miss Cathy continues at 10:30 on Thursdays. Tot Times with Miss Joyce will be on Tuesdays at 10:30, for children under age 4 and their caregivers. Siblings are welcome at both groups. Note that sometimes there are changes to Story Hour and Tot Time programs. There will be no Tot Time on Tues. Dec. 23. Check the calendar on the library’s website for the latest updates.

Ongoing Programs

• The weekly history group led by Hank Coleman meets at 11am each Wednesday. Open to all; for more information contact hjcoleman@comcast.net.

• The Blanding offers two monthly book groups, one on Monday evenings and one on Wednesday afternoons. Call the library for more information.

• Knit Night at the library meets one evening a month from 6:30 to 8. Call the library for the next meeting date. For adults and teens to get together and work on their knitting projects. You can find more information and news about programs and events at the Blanding Public Library at https://rehobothantiquarian.org/blanding-library/ You can also sign-up for a monthly library email letter on this site.

The Blanding Public Library at 124 Bay State Rd., Rehoboth is open Monday through Thursday from 10 to 8, and on Friday and Saturdays from 10 to 4. Closed Sundays and holidays. The library will close at 2 pm on Christmas Eve and will be closed on Christmas Day, and on New Year’s Eve, the library will close at 4 pm and be closed on New Year’s Day. Happy Holidays!

Debbie’s Cleaning Service

ChurCh News & eveNts

Rehoboth Baptist Church Announces Advent and Christmas Services

The four Sundays prior to Christmas are marked as the “Advent Season” on the Christian calendar. We invite you to join us for our Morning Worship gatherings on one or more these Sudays. Our gatherings begin each Sunday morning at 10:30 AM and each element of the worship gathering will be briefly explained for those who are unfamiliar with this kind of Christian meeting. Each week one of four Advent themes will be explained by Pastor Kitchen: “Christian hope,” “Christian love,” “Christian joy,” and “Christian peace.” If you understand these four biblical themes you will better grasp why the coming of Jesus was such a big deal, and why his coming return will be even bigger.

You are also invited to our Christmas services: On Christmas Eve at 6 PM, come, hear the Christmas story read from the Bible and explained. On Christmas morning at 8:30 AM there will be a short family worship service. On Sunday, Dec. 28th, “Christmas Sunday,” Pastor Kitchen will explain why Jesus is called the “Christ.” Watch for the announcement of more opportunities to join us for Bible reading and Bible study in January.

See our website for more information about the church, www. rehobothbaptistchurch.org. Rehoboth Baptist Church is located at 132 Moulton Street (Route 118), 2 miles south of the intersection of Rts. 118 & 44.

REHOBOTH BAPTIST CHURCH

Memorial Baptist Church News ~Worship Services~

Looking for a church home? We’d love to welcome you! Join us for our weekly Sunday Service at 10:00 AM—come experience uplifting worship, meaningful connection, and a place to belong. Stick around after service for Coffee hour-where friends gather and new connections begin. Sparkling conversation-guaranteed!

~OUR UPCOMING EVENTS ~

~The Mark209 Christmas Concert Returns~ December 7th | 6pm

A beloved community tradition is back—don’t miss the festive sounds of the season with the Mark209 Christmas Concert!

Tickets: $10 each

This show sells out quickly so purchase your tickets today by calling the church office at 508-761-5412

Let’s celebrate together with music, joy, and Christmas spirit.

~The Memorial Baptist Church Praise Team’s Christmas Concert~ December 20th | 6pm

Celebrate the Christmas Season with the Memorial Baptist Church Praise Team!

You’re warmly invited to a night of music, worship, and Christmas cheer.

Let the sounds of the Christmas season fill your heart with joy as our Praise Team shares festive melodies and powerful worship. Free admission — a love offering will be taken to bless future ministry.

Bring your friends, your family, and your Christmas spirit. We can’t wait to welcome you!

~Christmas Eve Service~ December 24th | 6pm

No matter who you are or where you’re from, you’re welcome here. Step into the peace and wonder of Christmas at our Christmas Eve service—our doors and hearts are open to all.

340 Central Ave. Seekonk, MA 02771

508.761.5142

CHRISTMAS SERVICES

• Christmas Eve - 6:00pm

Hear the Christmas story read from the Bible and explained

• Christmas Morning - 8:30am Short family worship service

• Sunday, December 28th - “Christmas Sunday”

Pastor Kitchen will explain why Jesus is called “The Christ”

REGULAR SUNDAY SERVICES

• Sunday School - 9:00am

• The Lord’s Service - 10:30am

• Prayer Meeting - 6:00pm

WEDNESDAYS

Bible Study - 7:00pm

Community Covenant Church News

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

Also, join us on December 13th for Christmas In Rehoboth! This family-friendly event brings together the joy and wonder of Christmas through a heartwarming nativity play, festive activities, and the beauty of nature. We will have three showings of the Nativity play at 4:30, 5:30 and 6:30. When not watching the nativity play, guests are welcome to join in on a variety of Christmas activities. For more information go to www.communitycovenant.church/events or www. christmasinrehoboth.com.”

Rehoboth

Holy Cross December News

Advent Penance Service – December 17, 2025, at 7p.m.

Christmas Mass – December 24, 2025, at 4 p.m.

Holy Cross Catholic Church

141 Hornbine Road

Rehoboth, MA

Seekonk Congregational Church

Sunday Services

We hope you will join us each Sunday at Seekonk Congregational Church UCC at our weekly services with Communion in the Sanctuary at 600 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk, MA . All services & church school begin at 9:30 and all are welcome. Licensed infant/ preschool day care is available every week. So, check us out in person, you will be happy you did.

Advent and Christmas Worship

December 7: 9:30am

The 2nd Advent Candle of PEACE will be lighted.

December 14: 9:30am

The 3rd Advent Candle of JOY will be lighted.

December 21: 9:30am

The 4th Candle of LOVE is lighted.

December 24: Christmas Eve Services

• The 5PM service is a Family Service

• The 10PM will be Candlelight Communion Service. All are welcome! Bring Friends!

December 28: 9:30am Bell Sunday

Ring out the OLD and Ring in the NEW! All invited to bring a bell of any shape, size or material. (No Church School – children in church).

Annual Christmas Bazaar

Please join us on Saturday Dec 6, 2025 from 9 AM to 2 PM. Join us for breakfast between 9 & 11:30 AM or lunch between 11:30 & 1 PM. Beautiful live wreaths and centerpieces, delicious ham and beans and baked goods, jewelry, pet gifts, knitted items, and Grandma’s Attic overflowing with gently used Christmas items.

NEW THIS YEAR~ Baskets of JOY will be at the drawing table! and SO MUCH more! Wreaths & Centerpieces will be for sale at the Bazaar, PHOTOS WITH SANTA! 10AM TO 1PM Children’s Craft Room from 9:00 to 11:00AM Children make Christmas Crafts with their families… Fee: $3.00 per child ($5.00 for 2 children)

Tell Your Friends and Family to Come Visit Us! On-Going Mission Concerns & Needs

• The clothing shed is at the end of the County Street parking lot. Drop off your clothing, shoes, belts, purses, blankets, sheets, curtains, pillowcases or stuffed animal donations in a tied-up bag.

• CANS & BOTTLES MA deposit Only: Save the environment and people!! Bring donations to the green bins - Fall River Ave parking lot- lift lid - drop in clean bottles and cans. DEPOSIT ONLY, no water bottles please.

• Holiday Food Basket…Annual Holiday food for UCAP food baskets. Please bring in all donations of non-perishables now through December 14th.

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

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

Rehoboth Congregational Church

Pre - Christmas Celebration on December 21st | 10AM (during & after Worship)

Christmas Pageant, Festive Coffee Hour and Hot Cocoa Bar & Crazy Christmas Sweater Contest!

Christmas Eve Services on December 24th

Family Service | 4PM

A festive and interactive service that tells the story of the birth of Jesus with Christmas Carols, storytelling, and candlelight singing. Lessons and Carols | 9PM

A reflective candlelight service where the Christmas story comes to life with readings and Christmas carols.

For more information on all our events: You can visit our website at www.rehobothcongregational.org/events

Or contact our Administrative Director Samantha: office@rehobothcongregational.org or 508-252-4545 (TuesdayThursday 9AM-1PM)

Worship With Us! | All Are Welcome!

We worship every Sunday at 10AM. 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.

Worship with us online at www.rehobothcongregational.org/ worshiponlin

139 Bay State Rd. Rehoboth

Saint Margaret Parish Holiday Season Schedule

1098 Pawtucket Avenue, Rumford RI

DECEMBER

24 | 5:30 PM

Newman Congregational Church, UCC Seasonal Events

Sunday, December 14th

Lessons & Carols Service at 10 am

With RI Brass Quartet

Followed by “Room at the Inn” Christmas Fun for All Including Christmas trivia, crafts and gingerbread decorating in Memorial Hall!

Sunday, December 21st

Community Christmas Carol Sing at 5pm

Sing your favorite Christmas Carols with the Newman Choir & the Christmas Revelers

Choral selections and fun instrumental works. Afterwards, homemade cookies and hot chocolate in Memorial Hall!

Wednesday, December 24th

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at 5pm

Festive Choral Prelude at 4:30pm in our historic Sanctuary Choral Concert

Sunday, January 18, 2026 at 3:00pm

Birthday Bash in Honor of Dr. King! ~ 4:30-6:30pm

Newman Congregational Church, UCC is pleased to present The Content of Our Character: A Choral Concert in Honor of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This concert will be performed by both the choir of Newman Church (Geoffrey Greene, Music Minister) and RPM Voices of Rhode Island (Frances-Elayne Johnson, Artistic Director). Featured performers include Delbert Collins, bass, conductor, and accompanist; Rev. Lauri Smalls, alto; Becky Bass, soprano and conductor; Barbara Youmans, alto; Neil Letendre, tenor; and Jonne Gomes, bass.

This concert will be the first collaboration between our two choirs and we hope there are many more to follow! Program selections are varied and include modern settings, traditional spirituals, and New Orleans infused rhythms. The combined choirs will number almost 50 singers who will sing a cappella in addition to being accompanied by piano, organ, and a fantastic gospel band!

The choral concert will be followed immediately by our Birthday Bash in Honor of Dr. King! This is free and open to the public and will take place in the church’s Memorial Hall. There will be dancing, food, and fun for all!

The Content of Our Character: A Choral Concert in Honor of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. will take place on Sunday, January 18, 2026 at 3:00pm. The public is cordially invited and there is a suggested donation of $20. All proceeds from this concert support the Newman Church music program. Birthday Bash in Honor of Dr. King will follow the concert from 4:30-6:30pm in the church’s Memorial Hall and is free and open to the public. Newman Congregational Church, UCC is located at 100 Newman Avenue, Rumford, RI. Online and Advance Ticket Sales Only for the concert. Please visit the QR code to purchase tickets.

Newman Congregational Church, United Church of Christ is located at 100 Newman Avenue, Rumford, RI 02916. For more information, call 401-4344742 X10.

Seekonk Public Library

Friends Seekonk Public Library News

Thank you to all who came to our Big Book Sale in November. Your purchases made it possible for us to support the library’s programs. We also appreciate all the books and puzzles that have been donated to us for our daily and quarterly books sales. We continue to accept fiction and nonfiction books for people of all ages. Right now we are particularly looking for children’s books for age two through second grade. Thanksgiving books for children would also be appreciated. Children’s graphic novels have become quite popular and we would like to be able to offer those in all our sales.

Sound Healing Session

Wednesday, December 10 at 6 PM

Whether you want to let go of holiday season stress or clear the entire year in preparation for the New Year, a sound healing session may be just the thing for you! Come to Sound Healing Session at Seekonk Public Library on Wednesday, December 10 at 6 PM to experience the benefits of sound immersion. Local practitioner Emily Luther of Luna Sound Healing will lead this session to help you experience deep relaxation and restoration of mind, body, and spirit. All participants should be prepared to sit or lay down on the floor for your comfort level; you are encouraged to bring your own exercise mat or blanket. This program is free and open to the public, but space is limited; registration is required. Register in the online Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events.

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

Connect, Learn and Explore with GetSetUp

Tuesday, December 16 at 2 PM

Seekonk Public Library now offers free access to Gale Presents: GetSetUp, an engaging online learning platform designed to help residents of all ages discover new skills, stay active, and connect with others. Join us at the library to find out more on December 16 at 2 PM in Library Tech Class: Get Started with GetSetUp! Register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events.

Expertly taught by friendly instructors age 55+ who make learning fun and accessible, GetSetUp has thousands of live and recorded classes on topics like fitness, technology, travel, hobbies, and wellness.

“GetSetUp encourages lifelong learning in a welcoming, social space,” said Michelle Gario, Senior Librarian. “It’s perfect for anyone looking to explore something new or stay connected from home.” You can join anytime from your computer, tablet, or smartphone and even get help from a live person for technical support! Get started free with your library card at seekonkpl.org.

For more information or for help with registration, call Adult Services at 508-336-8230 x56130 or email library@seekonkpl.org.

Add Some Self-Care to Your Holiday List

Thursday, December 18 at 6:30 PM

Get some self-care in during the rush this holiday season (and its earth-friendly to boot)! Join us at Seekonk Public Library on Thursday, December 18 at 6:30 PM for Sustainable Beauty. The Seekonk Recycling Committee is excited to share some real life ways to reduce waste in your beauty routine: from shampoo and conditioner bars instead of liquid to eco-friendly packaging and brands for makeup and skincare. Seekonk Recycling will have some free sustainable products to share, and we’ll also show you how to make your own facial toner spray. For planning purposes and to receive program updates, please register in the online Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events.

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

Join the Reading Revolution This Winter at the Library

Registration began December 1

Ready to join the revolution? Seekonk Public Library’s winter reading challenge for adults, Reading the Revolution, will be hosted January 2 – February 28. In the spirit of the country’s 250th anniversary, this winter theme invites you to start the year with the revolutionary act of reading, sharing reviews and completing challenge activities. Whether you’re a history lover or always looking to expand your reading, this challenge is for you. Choose any title you want or use suggestions featured in the MA250 Reading the Revolution book lists. This season’s challenge is only for adults, but related teen and children’s titles are provided so they can read along with you.

Participate your way:

• Use the Beanstack app or visit seekonkpl.beanstack.org to register and make updates

• Prefer offline? Paper logs will be available at the Research Help Desk starting January 2

• Participated in previous challenges? Use your existing Beanstack login

• The more you read, the more chances to win! All adults who stay active in the challenge will be entered in a final prize drawing.

Online registration opens December 1. Spread the freedom gained through reading with ‘Reading the Revolution!’

For more information, email library@ seekonkpl.org or call the Adult Service Librarians at 508-336-8230.

• Burner Service by our own experienced technicians 24/7

• Service Contracts

• Budget Plans

• Propane Deliveries

• Cleanings

Teen Services Teen Advisory Board

Artificial Intelligence: Visual Machine Learning Part I

Thursday, December 11 at 3:00 PM

If you’ve ever felt like some unseen entity is watching you, you may be right. AI powered cameras are appearing more and more in our daily lives, from facial recognition software to self-driving cars, to checkout-free “Just Walk Out” convenience stores that “watch” you shop and charge your bank account accordingly. Whether you see this technology as useful and exciting or intrusive and creepy, the phrase “knowledge is power” has never been more relevant. With that in mind, tweens and teens in grades six through twelve are invited to a 2-part Visual Machine Learning workshop at the Seekonk Public Library.

In this first session on Thursday, December 11 at 3:00 pm, we’ll get an overview of how AI visual recognition works, including a brief discussion of important concepts like Machine Learning and Deep Learning. Then we’ll learn how to operate an AI Machine Vision Sensor camera and get some practice using its various visual recognition features. We’ll finish the session by identifying a realworld problem that lends itself to visual AI technology. In the second session on January 15, we’ll use the Vision Sensor to actually train an AI program that solves our problem!

This 90-minute event is free and open to tweens and teens in grades 6 through 12. Space is limited and REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED FOR EACH OF THE TWO SESSIONS.

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

Custom

STAR MARBLE & GRANITE

Youth Services

Kid Librarian of the Month

December 1-31

Ages 7-12 Stop by the Children’s Room to fill out an application for the chance to become the Kid Librarian of the Month. As a Kid Librarian, you will receive an official T-shirt and oversee the creation of a book display with a theme of your choice. You will also make a sign to accompany the display. If needed, the Kid Librarian can ask the Librarian for assistance setting up the display.

The Kid Librarian of the Month will be selected in the last week of the month, and their display will be displayed for the rest of the following month. If chosen, you will be contacted by email or phone. All applications will remain on file.

Preschool Storytime

Monday, December 8, 10:00 AM

Ages 3-5 At preschool storytime, children aged 3-5 are encouraged to engage with stories, sing songs, and participate in activities that spark curiosity and promote a love of books. Younger siblings are welcome too. Drop in

Jingle Preschool Storytime

December 15, 10:00 AM

Ages 3-5 Join us for a special preschool storytime featuring holiday stories, music and movement, and a fun craft to top it all off! Drop in.

Jingle Toddler Storytime

Wednesday, December 17, 10:00 AM

Ages 18-36 months. This storytime will include a holiday book or two followed by music, finger plays, movement, Jingle Bells, and bubbles! Drop in

Baby Storytime

Thursday, December 11, 10:00 AM

Ages 0-18 Months. Bring a small blanket for your baby to sit on and enjoy a short story followed by music, finger plays, and movement activities. After storytime, stay for a relaxed play session. Drop in

Jingle Baby Storytime

Thursday, December 18, 10:00 AM

Ages 0-18 months. Join Ms. Corey for a holiday themed Jingle storytime. Bring a small baby blanket for the floor and enjoy a book followed by music with bells, finger plays & movement. Afterward, enjoy free time for belly time. Drop in

Sensory Play

Saturday, December 6, 10:00 AM

All ages. Play with various toys and unique materials to engage the senses and support the development of motor, memory, communication, and problem-solving skills in a fun and welcoming environment. This program is for children of all abilities. Drop-in

Tai Chi for Kids

Monday, December 8, 4:00-5:00 PM

Ages 3-6 Come give Tai Chi a try! Vince Jornales, from the East Coast Jornales System at Bishop’s Training & Fitness, will lead the group through a 1-hour Tai Chi program. The program will start with a light warm-up routine and then instruction of a short form called Tang Bom. Movement, coordination, and proper breath timing will be the focus.

Paws to Read

Tuesday, December 9, 3:30 PM

Fahey’s Painting

Interior • Exterior Honest, Dependable, Craftsmanship

34 Years Experience

Use Benjamin Moore Paints Power Washing & Carpentry

Beyblade Club

Wednesday, December 17, 4:00 PM

Help your child build reading skills and boost confidence by signing up for Paws to Read! During this special program, children can reserve a 15-minute one-on-one session to read aloud to Gizmo and Pepe, two lovable Chihuahua/Pomeranian mix therapy dogs. Reading to animals has been shown to improve reading fluency and confidence, especially for struggling readers. Each private session is led by Sandra Healey and her therapy dogs, Gizmo and Pepe. Register

Grades 1-5. Battle it out by launching your Beyblades into a stadium to see who comes out on top. Join us for free play and friendly competition! Bring your Beyblades and stadiums or use the library’s limited supply. Come battle Beyblades and meet some new friends! This is a drop-in program; no registration required.

John 508-933-9940 Justin 401-338-0895

John 508-933-9940 Justin 401-338-0895

Winter Break Programs

Frosty Fest in the Children’s Room!

Monday, December 22, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

All Ages. It’s the first day of winter break and we have a snowman scavenger hunt for you! Swing by the children’s room, find the hidden snowman, and collect your snowman craft prize. While you are here, color some holiday print-outs, check out holiday books, and enjoy some festive music.Drop in

Mr.

Guitar’s

Music and Movement Show

Saturday, December 27, 10:00 AM

All ages. The Mr. Guitar Show (featuring Mr. Radio) is a lively, interactive performance for kids and fun for all ages! With sing-alongs, movement songs, and a playful takeover attempt by Mr. Radio, the show is full of music and laughs. It all ends with everyone joining in as one big band using the percussion instruments provided. Register

Tai Chi for Kids

Monday, December 29, 4:00 PM

Ages 6-10 Vince Jornales, from the East Coast Jornales System at Bishop’s Training & Fitness, will lead the group through a 1-hour Tai Chi program. It will start with a light warm-up routine and then instruction of a short form called Tang Bom. Movement, coordination, and proper breath timing will be the focus. Lastly, the class will finish with a discussion and practice of meditation for mindfulness. Register

Family Movie Morning

Tuesday, December, 30, 10:00 AM

All ages. Join us for a screening of Bad Guys 2 as former criminals Mr. Wolf, Mr. Snake, Mr. Piranha, Mr. Shark, and Ms. Tarantula as they try to be good in the face of a new heist and a new team of criminals - the Bad Girls. Complete with snacks. All ages are welcome. Register.

HARDWOOD FLOORS

Club News & ANNOUNCEMENTS

Carpenter Museum Revolutionary War Exhibit Posters

The Carpenter Museum has a special limited-time display of posters from our American Revolution Genealogy Symposium available for the public to view. These exhibits highlight the important role Rehoboth residents played in the war, offering a closer look at the people who served, a detailed historical timeline, and information about local homes built during the Revolutionary era. It’s a unique chance to learn more local history during the anniversary of the American Revolution.

These posters come from our recent one-day symposium at the Carpenter Museum, which brought together speakers, historical displays, hands-on activities, and themed projects for children, all focused on uncovering the stories of Rehoboth’s Revolutionary War participants. If you missed the event, this display offers an exciting opportunity to experience some of its best features before they’re gone.

Available to view during open hours, every Tuesday and Thursday 1-4PM and the first Saturday of the month also 1-4PM. Our next open Saturday is December 6th. Free entry for Rehoboth residents and Rehoboth Antiquarian Society members.

Looking for a gift for the history buff in your life? Gift them a membership to the RAS. Our yearly memberships start at just $25 dollars! With this membership not only are you supporting the work of Rehoboth’s local museum and library, but you also get a lot of wonderful benefits including an invitation to our member’s only program this spring, a 10% discount at the Carpenter Museum bookstore, an invitation to our annual meeting, and more! Visit our website to join or purchase a gift membership: www.rehobothantiquarian.org

Hornbine School News

We continue to have interesting visitors at our OPEN HOUSES each year. This year was no exception. Gordon Francis (see Picture) visited during our October 12th OPEN HOUSE. He is the son of Marion Horton who taught at the Hornbine School from 1923 – 1926. Gordon donated several of his mother’s pictures to our scrapbook binders many years ago.

Marian Horton started teaching at the Hornbine School when she was eighteen years old. She married Douglas Francis a couple of days after the end of the 1926 school year. Her younger sister, Ruth, attended the school during the years Marian taught. Ruth married Raymond Reed, an older boy in the class, several years later. Go to our website at http://tinyurl.com/hornbineschool to see Marian’s picture collection and for more information about her. Our APPLE DAYS on October 26th was a great success! We had many happy young visitors and adults. Go to our Facebook Page (Hornbine School Museum) to see pictures of the event. Dawn Azar, our director, arranged for several activities for the youngsters such as “Clothespin in the Bottle”, “Memory Blocks”, “Graces”, “Scavenger Hunts”, and “Apple Toss”. Young visitors could dress up in old fashioned clothes; select a FREE book or use a real feather pen. Everyone could have apple cider and donuts and/or buy something at the yard sale.

The school is closed for the winter but we expect to have several new activities in 2026 while we celebrate our country’s 250th anniversary.

We hope you all have a happy holiday season.

Rehoboth Anawan Lions News

Hi, and Happy Holidays to all! At our last meeting in November we made some donations from our fundraising activities; including the the following organizations:

Mass Eye, Hearing Foundation, Youth Speech, Melvin Jones, Rehoboth Food Pantry, Fuel Assistance for the Seniors, Palmer River School, Beckwith School, Diabetes Foundation and the Senior Center. As you can see, we do our best to Serve as many as we can. If you have a couple hours a month and would like to join us, please call our President Lisa Halajko at 774-991-0052 or email her at Lisahalajko@gmail.com. We are always looking for new members, and many hands make light work!! And a whole lot of fun!!

The Rehoboth Garden Club

December 2025 News

Our November 17, 2025 meeting featuring Deborah Trickett, owner of The Captured Garden, was enjoyed by club and community members alike. Deborah shared her creative ideas for keeping window boxes and garden containers appealing through the holidays and winter season.

On Monday December 1, 2025 our members will meet at the Rehoboth Congregational Church Fellowship Hall at 9:30 AM to decorate wreaths to adorn the civic buildings in Rehoboth and Seekonk. Basket arrangements of fresh greens will be made and brought to homebound members. A festive holiday luncheon and party will follow.

The first meeting of the new year will be held on Monday January 12, 2026. Our guest speaker will be Richard Sul, who will discuss garden pests and beneficial insects, and his integrated guide to pest management.

New members are always welcome. For club information please contact Michael Seebeck at 401-787-5206 or michaeljseebeck@ gmail.com

Gordon Francis at Hornbine School

The Seekonk Lions Club First Pilgrim Dinner

It was November 20, 2025, in Seekonk, and the members of the Lions Club gathered at American Legion Post 311 for their next scheduled meeting. It was a good turnout for this small but dedicated group. Having 13 members come together near the holidays is truly special.

I looked around at my fellow members — Russ, Bob R, Kenny, Bob D, John, George, Keith, Gary, Dana, Ted, John W, George — and felt a deep sense of pride. Each of them had given their time, energy, and whatever else they had to make this meeting productive, planning our next steps for the year ahead.

Sandy, the best bartender you could ask for that evening, took care of our adult beverages and snacks before we headed upstairs for the dinner. I did my best to gently nudge a few members along, as they were caught up in jovial conversations only a Seekonk Lion could have.

After our traditional Lions meeting welcome, the group settled down to a feast from Rosa’s Tavern in East Providence. This is a new thing I’m trying—alternating our meetings between the Legion and Ledgemont Country Club, with local cuisine in mind at the Legion. Our previous meeting featured BBB Barbecue from Seekonk—that was truly swell!

But this night, we had prime rib—cooked to perfection with Portuguese seasonings the members had never tasted before. Everyone was quietly digging in, savoring the delicious entrée. The first words of admiration were “OMG!”

Turning to our agenda, we discussed fundraising and the distribution of funds to some of our local worthy causes. This year, donations to our main Lions charity, MLERF (Mass Lions Eye and Ear Research Foundation), raised a remarkable $58,000— a real testament to our community’s generosity.

We’re working on new fundraising efforts, especially since some of our well-known initiatives had to be put on hold. Our “Taste of the Town” event in April on Patriots Day was a great success, and we’re confident it will be even better next year. We’re also exploring new ideas, like a car show—so stay tuned!

During the discussion, George reflected on the busy days of planning food drives, gift distributions, and community outreach. He remembered the families we helped and emphasized the importance of getting back to those meaningful activities.

He also drew a parallel to the Pilgrims: “We need to be like the Pilgrims,” he said, “who started with nothing but their faith and determination, and built a community through hard work and giving.” Yes indeed!

This evening, the club voted to make donations to Doorways Food Pantry and the American Legion Post 311. There was also discussion about launching a project to support Doorways as they reach over 20 years at the same location in the old North School. Stay tuned again.

As we look ahead to 2026, I want to remind everyone that if you feel moved to help financially, donations are always welcome—whether by check or cash, given directly to a Seekonk Lion or sending to our PO Box. We need a push in the coming year to meet our goals and continue serving the Seekonk community.

So, what is this “Pilgrim Dinner”? It’s going to be a new tradition for the Lions Club, inspired by the spirit of Thanksgiving and the season of giving. With food drives, food banks, turkey and prime rib dinners, and time spent with family—all of this comes together to create our first Seekonk Lions Pilgrim Dinner.

Thank you for all for your time, attention and support this year. We look forward to serving Seekonk in the new year. Wishing you a joyful holiday season.

Paul Buckley - President

Seekonk Lions Club P.O. Box 326 Seekonk, MA 02771

Seekonk Lions Charitable Trust Inc.

President RIAR 2013, Broker Associate Liscensed in MA & RI (401) 458-2160 Cell victoriadoran.remax@gmail.com

Sales Associate, Liscensed in MA & RI (401) 864-1644 Cell

American Legion Post 302 Public Events

• Try our Fish & Chips or Specials of the Week – every Thursday 4:00 till 7:00 P.M. & Fridays 4:00 – 7:30PM and Saturdays with a Band ONLY 6:00-7:30PM.Take Outs are welcome – call in your order in early for pickup at 508-252-9079

• “QUEEN OF HEARTS” drawing every Friday night at 8:00 PM

• Prize Bingo - 4th Sunday of every month at 5:00PM

• NEW POOL TABLE Come and have some fun

• 2nd Sunday of Every Month, “All you can Eat Breakfast” 7:30am – 10:30am - Bar opens at 10!

• Check us out on Facebook - Photos since 2018 posted by our patrons… https://www.facebook.com/pages/American-LegionHall/258235277540573

For Events: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/

Upcoming Events

• December 12th, 2025 – Friday - 7:00-11:00 P.M. + – Live Karaoke performed by Freedom Karaoke Entertainment, Come on in and sing a song or two – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME!

• ***NEW BAND *** December 13th, 2025 - Saturday - 7:00-10:00 P.M., TOURCH BAND Classic Rock – No Cover Charge! – FoodCheck with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart https:// open.spotify.com/artist/57RIFB8RMODxF0PXg6vVjT?si=%20 HGPY_GMWTAioT8epLo0GWg&nd=1

• December 14th, 2025 – Sunday -7:30 -10:30 A.M. American Legion Monthly Breakfast, Second Sunday of every month $12.00 donation - All you can Eat!

• December 19th, 2025 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – Rock-A-Blues Band with Classic Rock Music – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! https://www.rockablues.com

• December 20th, 2025 – Saturday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – Mike Higgins & The Dynamics - Live Music Entertainment playing Classic, Rock & Country - No Cover Charge! – Bar Food – Kitchens open – Fish & Chips - Check with the bar for the Specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, Dancing so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Mike and The Dynamics |Facebook https://www.facebook. com/profile.php?id=100063173623981

• December 26th, 2025 – Friday - 6:00-8:00 P.M., Sons of the American Legion’s Monthly Meat Raffle followed by Karaoke

- 8:00-11:00 P.M. – No Cover Charge!Food – Drinks – Singing, Dancing & having a GREAT TIME!

• December 26th, 2025 – Friday - 8:00-11:00

P.M. + – Live Karaoke performed by our own Karaoke Entertainment, Come on in and sing a song or two – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME!

• December 28th, 2025 – Sunday -5:00 -8:00

P.M. Prize BINGO! American Legion Auxiliary, Fourth Sunday of every month $10.00 donation per 5 Games – Food – Drinks & having a GREAT TIME!

• December 31st, 2025 – Wednesday - 6:00 -1:00 A.M. + – NEW YEARS EVE PARTY - Live Karaoke performed by Freedom Karaoke Entertainment, Come on in and sing a song or two – No Cover Charge! –Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME!

***Please note these events are subjected to change – Call First***

***Last update November 18, 2025***

From the State House

Representative Steven S. Howitt

Supports Bill to Enhance State Oversight of Home Care Agencies

House proposal offers protections for MA residents receiving

services

Boston – State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R-Seekonk) recently supported legislation to enhance state oversight of home care agencies operating in Massachusetts and implement a formal licensing process to help protect clients receiving services.

House Bill 4706, An Act to improve Massachusetts home care, was given initial approval by the House of Representatives on November 5 when it was engrossed on a vote of 153-1. The bill still requires Senate approval and Governor Maura Healey’s signature before it can become law.

Representative Howitt noted that home care agencies are not currently licensed in Massachusetts, making it difficult to ensure these agencies are providing quality services to their clients and potentially leaving clients in a vulnerable position.

House Bill 4706 calls for the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) to establish and administer a formal licensing process for home care agencies, with fees to be set by the Executive Office for Administration and Finance. EOHHS will be required to issue temporary licenses within 180 days of the effective date of the bill, and to develop rules and regulations for the licensing and conduct of home care agencies within one year.

Representative Howitt said the new home care licenses will be valid for three years and subject to renewal. EOHHS will have the power to revoke or suspend a license and to issue fines of up to $500 per day if an agency does not comply with the new regulations governing the conduct of home care agencies.

Representative Howitt noted House Bill 4706 contains many important protections for individuals and families who rely on home care services by requiring background checks for home care workers and establishing a Home Care Worker and Consumer Abuse Stakeholder Advisory Committee. The committee will advise EOHHS on how to address abusive treatment of home care workers, personal care attendants, and home care consumers, and will be responsible for submitting periodic reports detailing its findings and recommendations.

Under the provisions of the House bill, EOHHS will also be tasked with:

• creating training requirements for agency staff on infection control, handling emergencies, and reporting suspected abuse;

• establishing policies to ensure safe working conditions;

• setting minimum standards for service plans and contracts executed by home care agencies;

• establishing minimum coverage requirements for workers’ compensation and liability insurance; and

• mandating annual and ongoing reporting requirements for licensed home care agencies

According to Representative Howitt, House Bill 4706 would also create a Home Care Oversight Advisory Council to advise EOHHS on the implementation of the new licensure requirements and regulations governing the conduct of home care agencies. The advisory council will be comprised of representatives from various state agencies, as well as the Home Care Aide Council, Home Care Alliance of Massachusetts, Massachusetts Aging Access, and 1199 SEIU.

During floor debate, Representative Howitt supported an amendment to create a special legislative commission to study family caregiving policy, in consultation with

the Health Policy Commission, and to file a report with its findings and recommendations by December 1, 2026. As part of the study, the commission will conduct an evaluation of all state-funded efforts in caregiving research, clinical care, institutional and home-based and community-based services and supports, and will investigate the potential fiscal, access and quality impacts of allowing spouses to serve as paid caregivers in the MassHealth program. The amendment was adopted on a vote of 154-0.

House Bill 4706, as amended, now moves to the Senate for its consideration.

Representative Steven S. Howitt

Supports

Proposal to Protect Health Care Employees from Workplace Violence

Requires employers to implement annual facilityspecific risk assessment plans

Boston – State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R-Seekonk) recently supported a proposal to address workplace violence within the health care industry and protect employees who suffer bodily injuries on the job.

House Bill 4767, An Act requiring health care employers to develop and implement programs to prevent workplace violence, was engrossed by the House of Representatives on a vote of 158-0 on November 19. The bill now heads to the Senate for its consideration.

According to a 2023 report issued by the Massachusetts Health and Hospital Association, “every 38 minutes in Massachusetts health care facilities someone, most often a clinician or an employee, is physically assaulted, endures verbal abuse, or is threatened.” Representative Howitt said House Bill 4767 attempts to address this problem by implementing stronger protections for health care workers, including mandatory training and enhanced reporting requirements.

Under the House proposal, health care employers will now be required to annually perform a facility-specific risk assessment. This assessment will be done in cooperation with the facility’s employees and any labor organization that represents these workers.

Representative Howitt said the bill also directs employers to develop plans to minimize workplace violence dangers, including establishing employee training and reporting procedures. It also takes steps to protect employees who report incidents of workplace violence, including clarifying that they may receive paid leave following an incident of workplace violence, which will not be counted towards their accrued vacation and sick time, although employers can require documentation related to the incident if the workplace violence leave exceeds 5 days.

Under House Bill 4767, health care employers will be responsible for submitting annual reports on all workplace violence incidents to the Commissioner of Public Health. Employers must also report to the district attorney who has jurisdiction over the community where the facility is located.

Steven Howitt

According to Representative Howitt, House Bill 4767 also directs the Executive Office of Health and Human Services, in coordination with the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security, to submit a report to the Joint Committee on Health Care Financing, the president of the Massachusetts Health and Hospital Association, Inc., the president of the Massachusetts Nurses Association and the president of 1199 SEIU with recommendations to improve interagency data sharing communication and collaboration between health care facilities within one year of the bill’s effective date. The report will also include recommendations for how public safety and law enforcement entities can best address alternative appropriate placement for criminal justice involved patients with a mental health or behavioral health diagnosis.

House Bill 4767 will now move to the Senate for consideration.

Representative Steven S. Howitt Supports Bill to Address Deferred Maintenance at 29 State Colleges and Universities

Proposal will support higher education infrastructure and new construction jobs

Boston – State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R-Seekonk) recently supported legislation that will provide $3.28 billion to help address deferred infrastructure maintenance and other modernization projects at Massachusetts’s 29 public college and university campuses.

House Bill 4750, An Act to build resilient infrastructure to generate higher-ed transformation (also known as the BRIGHT Act), uses a combination of bonding and surtax revenues to support the state’s institutes of higher education. The bill was given preliminary approval by the House of Representatives, which engrossed it on a vote of 148-5 on November 18.

e stated goal of the BRIGHT Act is to “provide for a program of capital improvements to public higher education institutions to provide support for these institutions in carrying out their educational missions and to enhance regional economic development through their educational initiatives.” The legislation is expected to help support the creation of approximately 20,000 construction-related jobs.

Representative Howitt noted that the bill includes:

• $1.25 billion for deferred maintenance, modernization, decarbonization and major capital projects at state and community college campuses;

• $1.25 billion for deferred maintenance, modernization, decarbonization and major capital projects at the University of Massachusetts’ campuses;

• $100 million for renovating campus facilities and property for housing and mixed-use development;

• $80 million for decarbonization and energy efficiency projects and plans for public higher education institutions;

• $120 million for lab modernization, community college and voc-tech facility repairs and modernization, and repair and modernization of facilities to support student mental health;

• $30 million for developing campus master plans for public higher education institutions;

• $275 million for the revitalization of the Huntington Tower Building at the Massachusetts College of Art and Design;

• $50 million for a campus improvement grant program; and

• $20 million to facilitate and enhance remote and hybrid learning opportunities for students.

According to Representative Howitt, House Bill 4750 also establishes a competitive grant program that will provide $100 million in funding for career technical education and training programs that align with regional economic and workforce development priorities. He noted that these grants can be used for the purchase and installation of equipment and to facilitate collaboration that connects high school and vocational technical program students with postsecondary opportunities.

Representative Howitt said House Bill 4750 also requires the commissioner of the Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance (DCAMM) to work with the presidents of the state’s public higher education institutions and the secretary of the Executive Office of Administration & Finance to identify deferred maintenance projects at any state college or university that exceeds $50 million, and to provide details on what is being done to address this deferred maintenance. This report will be due within 90 days of the effective date of the BRIGHT Act.

Moving forward, House Bill 4750 calls for the DCAMM commissioner to file an annual report on capital expenditures for public higher education. In addition to identifying best practices, this report will also include details on projected capital needs and funding gaps that will need to be addressed. The commissioner will work in consultation with the presidents of the state’s public higher education institutions, the UMass Building Authority, and the Massachusetts State College Building Authority to produce these annual reports.

Representative Howitt said House Bill 4750 also authorizes the Commissioner of Higher Education to dispose of and sell real property at a public higher education institution that is deemed to be no longer needed. Proceeds from the property sale will be deposited into a new Higher Education Property Disposition Fund, which can then be used to pay for future campus capital facility project.

During floor debate, the House adopted a consolidated amendment allocating $370.4 million in earmarks for dozens of higher education capital projects.

House Bill 4750, as amended, will now move to the Senate for its consideration.

Representative Steven S. Howitt Supports Bill to Replace Outdated Language in State Laws Pertaining to Describing Individuals with Disabilities

House proposal updates MA statutes by removing offensive terminology

Boston – State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R-Seekonk) recently supported legislation to update Massachusetts’ General Laws to remove outdated and offensive language used to describe individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

House Bill 4704, An Act amending certain laws relative to individuals with disabilities, was engrossed by the House of Representatives on November 5 by a unanimous vote of 152-0. The Senate previously approved its own version of the bill, Senate Bill 2563, on July 24.

Representative Howitt noted that House Bill 4704 revises language in multiple sections of the Massachusetts General Laws used in this manner. It strikes phrases such as “handicapped persons” and “disabled individuals” and replaces this terminology with phrases such as “persons with disabilities,” “person with an intellectual or developmental disability,” and similar wording.

Representative Howitt said it is important that the Massachusetts General Laws be updated to eliminate insensitive language used to describe those with disabilities to ensure that all residents are treated with dignity and respect.

The Arc of Massachusetts, which has been advocating for these changes, lists the bill among its legislative priorities, noting that “derogatory words alienate people (sic-those) with disabilities and are used to insult and discriminate.”

The House and Senate will now work to reconcile the differences between the two legislative branches’ proposals to produce a final bill to be sent to Governor Maura Healey for her review and signature.

Representative Steven S. Howitt Works to Restore Emergency Shelter Spending Reporting Requirement

House GOP proposal retained in final FY25 closeout budget

Boston – State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R-Seekonk) recently supported a Fiscal Year 2025 closeout supplemental budget that contains House GOP leadership-sponsored language requiring the Healey Administration to resume providing ongoing updates on the amount of state spending associated with running the Commonwealth’s emergency shelter system.

Language requiring the reinstatement of the reporting requirement was included in House Bill 4761, which allocates funding to address deficiencies in multiple state spending accounts while officially closing the books on Fiscal Year 2025, which ended on June 30. The bill represents a negotiated compromise between earlier versions of the bill passed by the House and Senate, and was enacted by the House on a vote of 146-9 on November 19 and by the Senate on a vote of 38-0 the same day.

Representative Howitt noted that spending on the emergency shelter system has reached an unsustainable level of approximately $1 billion a year due to the migrant shelter crisis. The Legislature first implemented the reporting requirement in 2023 to require public disclosure of “any projected deficiency in funds related to said crisis in Fiscal Year 2024 and projected costs related to said crisis through the end of Fiscal Year 2025”. Because the original reporting requirement expired on June 30, the Healey Administration is no longer reporting these figures.

To ensure continued transparency to the state’s taxpayers, House Republican Caucus leadership offered a successful floor amendment when the closeout budget was initially debate in the House on October 15. The amendment requires the Administration to continue providing details on how much the state is spending on the program as part of the bi-weekly reports issued by the Executive Office for Administration and Finance and the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities.

The House GOP amendment makes the reporting requirement permanent, while also directing the administration to provide retroactive spending figures dating back to July 1. Representative Howitt said reinstating the reporting requirement will give the state’s taxpayers a better understanding of program costs.

In addition to restoring the shelter spending reporting requirement, the closeout supplemental budget also directs the Inspector General to investigate the state’s sheriffs’ offices, which were collectively seeking $162 million in deficiency funding, well above prior years’ levels. This investigation will include, but is not limited to, a detailed accounting of sheriffs’ offices’ expenditures, spending on programs that are not statutorily required, as well as an analysis of compensation levels over the last three years, with a preliminary

report due by February 27, 2026 and a final report due by May 31, 2026.

Representative Howitt said House Bill 4761 also provides $10 million for operational and transitional enhancements at the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) to help ensure accurate information is being collected on recipients of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. This will help to improve the accuracy of eligibility and benefit determinations in Massachusetts, so the state will not face financial penalties from the federal government for having an elevated error rate.

House Bill 4761 also contains provisions that criminalize the impersonation of a federal officer. It calls for enhanced penalties that include a fine of up to $1,000 or imprisonment for not more than 2 1/2 years.

Representative Howitt said that in addition to these policy reforms, House Bill 4761 provides additional funding for a variety of state programs, including:

• $12 million to support universal school meals;

• A $100 million transfer of excess surtax revenues to the Student Opportunity Act Investment Fund;

• $18.3 million for student financial aid assistance, including the creation of a Public Higher Education Student Support Fund;

• $2.5 million for the Committee for Public Counsel Services to cover indigent persons fees and court costs;

• $50 million for the Housing Preservation and Stabilization Trust Fund;

• $1.67 billion for MassHealth, which is expected to cost the state $303 million in net spending once federal reimbursements are factored in;

• $374 million in gross funding for Steward Hospital payments, with a net cost of $236 million for the state; and

• $10 million for the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center.

Representative Howitt noted that the closeout supplemental budget includes $2.31 billion in gross spending. It will have a net cost of $806.9 million to the state once federal reimbursements are taken into consideration.

House Bill 4761 is now on Governor Healey’s desk for her review and signature.

Rehoboth Ramblings

By Leslie Patterson

History Matters

Having just watched Ken Burns excellent series “The American Revolution”, I came across a short book, “History Matters”, a collection of short essays by popular historian David McCullough, who died in 2022. Watching the TV series, I especially appreciated how Burns was candid about how complicated and violent this period in American history truly was. So often we have just a simplified and sanitized version of those dramatic and sometimes horrifying events of the revolution. I especially appreciated his descriptions of

• PVC • Custom Cedar • Farm Fencing • Dog Runs • Chain Link

• Ornamental Aluminum

• Arbors

how civilians suffered in times of war and conflict, as they always do, a topic that is often glossed over.

In his essay on George Washington, David McCullough wrote, “There is this fiction of a simpler past … There was no simpler time”, he firmly believes. He refers to the “ragged, forlorn, pathetic troops of Washington crossing the Delaware in the snow and ice to attack at Christmas.” He ironically imagines one poor solder saying to other, ‘yes but at least we live in a simpler time’. But, he continues, “It was a very complicated time. It was a very dangerous time and you had to have a lot of stamina. You had to have a sense of purpose just to get through life very often, let alone in time of war.”

One thing that was simpler back then was technology. No electricity at all, let alone worries about cryptocurrency, social media, AI, and so forth. I imagine someone as scientific-minded as Ben Franklin would be fascinated by this topic but he didn’t have to deal with it. Even McCullough, who died in 2022, seems to be looking at the past through rose-colored glasses when he describes how fond he was of using his old Royal typewriter all his life. Now here I disagree with him.

Typing something up using a computer, as I am doing now, is so much easier than using a typewriter (needing carbon paper, White Out/Liquid paper, figuring out the footnotes etc.) back when cut-and-paste was truly cut and paste. I recall one term paper I was working on back in those dark ages that looked like a Venetian blind by the time I got it in order, cutting out paragraphs and then using scotch tape to link them together logically, and then of course having to retype the whole blasted thing into something presentable. No thanks for the memory. Ditto to those who recall card catalogs fondly. Clearly these are people who never had to spend time filing all those cards in proper order.

But I digress. Once while driving by the original home of John Adams, (The Adams National Historic Park in Quincy is well worth a visit, I might add), McCullough had these thoughts about Adams: “Listen please to what he said in the year 1765, more than a decade before Philadelphia, 1776: ‘Liberty cannot be preserved without general knowledge among the people who have the right to that knowledge and the desire to know…They have a right, an indisputable, unalienable, indefeasible divine right to that most dreaded and envied kind of knowledge, I mean of the character and conduct of their rulers.’

McCullough also quotes Thomas Jefferson: “Any nation that expects to be ignorant and free expects what never was and never will be.” McCullough encourages his readers to “think how tough our predecessors were. Think what they had been through. There’s no one who hasn’t an ancestor who went though some form of hell.”

There are other unexpected highlights in “History Matters”. One is “Harriet Beecher Stowe in Paris”, an essay about a very interesting period in the life of the famous author of “Uncle Tom’s Cabin”. There’s also a lot about Harry Truman that I didn’t know. One of the author’s humorous recollections is the time a student asked him if he had interviewed any presidents other than John Adams and Harry Truman.

Here’s a local reference from “History Matters”. McCullough gave a commencement address at Providence College in 2018, saying “Remember that speaking the truth, loyalty, decency, courage, and character all count. All matter greatly still, indeed count more now than ever. We as a nation are experiencing serious bumps in the road. Don’t get discouraged, don’t give up. We’ve known worse times and come through and we will now if we never forget who we are and what we stand for. The world needs you, there’s work to be done. Let’s never lapse into being spectators only.”

BACK OR NECK PAIN?

➢ Have you been told to “Stay off your feet and Take these pills”?

➢ Have you been told “It will go away on its own”?

➢ Have you been told “Get these Shots and you will be better”?

➢ Have you been told “You need surgery”?

SCHOOL NEWS

The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District (DRRSD) is proud to be featured in the October 2025 issue of Business View Magazine. This national publication spotlights innovation and operational excellence in municipalities and public institutions. Known for showcasing exceptional operational success, Business View Magazine selected Dighton-Rehoboth for a dedicated

feature—highlighting how a school district can lead through innovation, culture, community collaboration, and a future-ready vision grounded in student and staff empowerment.

Titled “Proving Rural Districts Can Compete Through Strategic Innovation,” the article places DRRSD on the cover of the October issue and profiles the district’s bold work to reimagine public education across five schools serving 2,500 students in the towns of Dighton and Rehoboth.

Superintendent Bill Runey said, “This is such a tremendous testament to what everyone in these two communities has done to foster a true renaissance in our #WeAreDR Community. It’s a reflection of the momentum we’ve shaped together—from staff to School Committee, families to town leadership.”

The article features DRRSD’s leadership team, including Assistant Superintendent Fred Souza and Director of Instructional Technology & Operations Lauren Harwood, and highlights the district’s commitment to innovation, fiscal stewardship, and student opportunity through the lens of its DRiving Toward 2030 Strategic Plan and guiding mantra, #WeAreDR.

Key initiatives highlighted include:

• Supporting the Whole Child and Empowering Educators: A “whole child, whole educator” philosophy that ensures students receive the support they need—starting with strong investment in staff well-being and growth.

• DREAM Seminars (Dighton-Rehoboth Educators Aspiring for Mastery): A pioneering internal PD model that transforms teachers into thought leaders by inviting them to design and lead peer learning aligned with district goals.

• Career & Technical Education (CTE) Pathways: Expanded offerings in fields such as Automotive Technology, Engineering, and Marketing, with regional partnerships that include Ford Motor Company and TASCA Automotive Group.

• Technology and AI Integration: A forward-thinking and ethical approach to digital learning, emphasizing cybersecurity awareness and responsible AI use for staff and students alike.

• Safety & Security Modernization: District-wide upgrades made possible through collaborative efforts with local police, fire, and town governments—ensuring secure learning environments across all campuses.

The feature also underscores how DRRSD blends long-range planning with immediate innovation, positioning the district as a model for how rural communities can lead with purpose.

View the full feature article: businessviewmagazine.com/ dighton-rehoboth-school-districtma

For more information about the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District, visit www.drregional.org.

To learn more about Business View Magazine, visit businessviewmagazine.com.

The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District is proud to announce that Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School (DRRHS) has been awarded a combined $650,000 in grant funding from

the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) through its Climate-Critical Workforce Training, Equipment, and Infrastructure Grants Program.

This significant investment supports DRRHS’s forward-looking efforts to enhance its Chapter 74 Automotive Technology program by integrating electric and hybrid vehicle (EV/HEV) training into both the daytime curriculum for juniors and seniors and the evening programming for adult learners.

The district received two grants under the initiative: - Strand A Award – $150,000 to expand curriculum and pilot new training pathways, including the development of an EV/HEV-focused section of the existing high school program and clarification of evening adult programming - Strand C Award – $500,000 to purchase specialized high-voltage and hybrid vehicle training equipment, support facility modifications for safety, and align instruction with evolving industry needs.

According to Superintendent Bill Runey, “This grant represents more than just an investment in equipment—it’s an investment in our students, our community, and our future. By expanding access to clean energy career pathways, we are empowering the next generation of technicians to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry. It also reinforces our commitment to equity, as these opportunities will extend to adult learners and underserved populations. I’m incredibly proud of our team for embracing this bold vision, and I want to especially thank Renee Moorby for her outstanding grant writing work that brought this opportunity to life.”

The implementation of this initiative will build on the district’s legacy of hands-on technical education. Michael Strojny, Director of Career and Technical Education, explained, “This funding allows us to take our automotive program to the next level. We’re excited to equip our students—both high schoolers and adults—with the skills necessary to meet the demands of a green economy. The

of EV and hybrid vehicle training into our curriculum will position our learners for meaningful careers in clean energy while building strong partnerships with employers across the region. It’s a proud moment for our program and a major step forward for technical education at DR.”

Principal Dustin Demers highlighted the impact on students and the broader school community: “Our students are stepping into a world where clean energy and advanced automotive technology are no longer the future—they’re the present. This grant ensures that DRRHS remains at the forefront of shaping learners for careers that truly matter. I’m incredibly proud of our staff and students for their readiness to embrace this next chapter, and I’m grateful that our school can lead the way in such meaningful, forward-thinking work.”

These awards affirm DRRHS’s commitment to preparing students for climate-critical careers while strengthening regional capacity to meet the growing demand for skilled EV and hybrid vehicle technicians. The expanded programming will serve both high school students and adult learners, creating new pipelines to high-wage, high-demand employment in the clean energy sector.

The grants will also support the school in expanding its current employer network beyond commercial dealerships, bolstering postgraduate job placement efforts. Over the next two years, DRRHS will support a pilot cohort of 13 students through this innovative training initiative.

MassCEC has expressed enthusiasm for working alongside DRRHS to build climate-resilient career pathways and to serve underrepresented communities and Environmental Justice (EJ) populations across the Commonwealth. The district looks forward to finalizing the grant agreement and launching the next phase of implementation in collaboration with MassCEC in the coming months.

Twin Oaks Farm Learning Center

Gratitude and Community Shine at Palmer River Elementary this November

Rehoboth, MA – This month has been filled with gratitude, giving back, and expressing thanks at Palmer River Elementary School. The school hosted a highly successful Thanksgiving Food Drive, and thanks to the generosity of students, staff, and the wider community, Palmer River was able to provide complete Thanksgiving and Christmas meals to six Palmer River families. All additional donations were delivered to the Rehoboth Food Pantry to help replenish supplies after a busy season supporting local residents.

Palmer River also opened its doors to local Veterans, families, district administration, and community members for a heartfelt Veterans Day Tribute honoring service, sacrifice, and courage. Each grade level contributed in meaningful ways—through songs, artwork, essays, poems, and cards. Students demonstrated the qualities that define both the Palmer River and Dighton-Rehoboth communities: global citizenship, community engagement, compassion, and effective communication. Their thoughtful presentations reflected deep appreciation for local heroes and helped raise awareness of their contributions.

November also brought several joyful learning celebrations. Students paraded through the halls in a Thanksgiving Day Parade complete with custom-made floats, celebrated the 50th day of school with 1950s-themed activities, and participated in a Kindergarten Feast where each class performed a special song. These events showcased creativity, collaboration, and the strong sense of community that makes Palmer River such a vibrant place to learn and grow.

Bishop Feehan Announces First Quarter

Honor Roll 2025-2026

From Rehoboth

First Honors: Skyla Duvally – 9, Gillian Creighton – 10, Emma Rapp – 10, Allen Shapiro – 10, Mackayla Creighton – 11, Benjamin Bogosian – 12, Grace Callaghan – 12, Andrew Placido – 12

Second Honors: Tenley Ferreira – 9, Quinn Kotch – 9, Reece Kotch – 9, Mia Nassif – 9, Alexander Warren – 9, Emma Andrade – 10, Samuel Baker – 10, Taylor Pierce – 10, Sophia Andrade –11, Madison Coyne – 1, James Mello – 11, Noelle Salwierz – 11, Antonio Morabito – 12, Mia Mourao – 12

Third Honors: Chloe Ruehrwein – 9, Mayukha Reddy – 10, Zachary Sidok – 10, Andrew Sanford – 11, Hope Abbott – 12, Raegan Baer – 12

From Seekonk

First Honors: Riyan Jones – 10, Emily Azzouz – 11, Guillianna Leitao – 11, Sofiana Azzouz – 12

Second Honors: Shayne Gomes – 9, Isla Graham – 9, Elias Kaba – 9, Hailey Ferreira – 10, Camden Gareau – 10, Dylan Audette – 11, Dana Kiriaki – 11, Emily Rebelo – 11, Matthew Roslonek – 12, Samuel Shaghalian – 12

Third Honors: Eva Ferreira – 9, Kasey Lewis – 9, Lila Shaghalian – 9, Annabel O’Brien – 10, Logan Solas – 10, Lorna Nassef – 11, Ruhi Nevatia – 11

Local Students Receive Honors at Saint Raphael Academy

Saint Raphael Academy congratulates students from Bristol County who have achieved honor roll status for the first quarter marking period in academic year 2025-26. They are:

Highest Honors

Grade 9: Matthew Lagor (Seekonk)

First Honors

Grade 9: Benjamin Chartier (Rehoboth)

Grade 12: Emma Chartier (Rehoboth)

Second Honors

Grade 9: Brianna Chartier (Rehoboth), Anaya Ocampo (Seekonk), Caiden Ryan (Rehoboth)

Grade 12: Mackenzie O’Brien-Pettus (Seekonk)

Saint Raphael Academy is a diocesan, Catholic, college preparatory school founded in the charism of Saint John Baptist de La Salle and rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The Academy provides a comprehensive and competitive college preparatory high school experience to about 450 young men and women from diverse backgrounds and prepares each student for a life dedicated to learning, leadership and service. For 100 years, the Academy’s more than 10,000 graduates have gone on to careers in business, law, medicine, education, science and engineering. We are more than just a school community -- we are a family.

Visit www.saintrays.org

University News

Kali Caouette of Rehoboth, Massachusetts began their first semester in the Fall of 2025 at Lasell University

Newton, MA -- Kali Caouette, a student from Rehoboth, Massachusetts began their first semester in the Fall of 2025 at Lasell University.

Dighton Elementary School Students

Selected to Design Ornaments for the National Christmas Tree Display in Washington, D.C.

Dighton Elementary School is excited to announce that studentdesigned ornaments from our school will be featured on the National Christmas Trees in Washington, D.C. This incredible honor was shared with us by Mark Lannigan from Senator Ed Markey’s office following a recent conversation.

Each year, the National Park Foundation (NPF) and the National Park Service invite students from across the country to contribute original artwork to the National Christmas Tree Lighting Festival—an American tradition dating back to 1923. President’s Park transforms into a festive display, with the National Christmas Tree surrounded by 56 trees representing every U.S. state and territory, each decorated with ornaments created by K–12 students that showcase the beauty, history, and character of their home states.

This year, beginning December 6, visitors from around the nation will have the opportunity to view the ornaments created by our talented Dighton students. Their artwork, inspired by Massachusetts’ natural beauty and local identity, will be proudly displayed as part of this beloved national tradition.

“We are incredibly proud of our student artists,” said Principal Katelyn Lima. “To have their creativity showcased on a national stage is a true testament to their hard work and imagination. Our students put so much heart into these ornaments, and it is wonderful to see their efforts recognized in such a meaningful way.”

Photos of the student-designed ornaments, provided by the National Park Foundation, are included HERE for families to enjoy and celebrate.

Superintendent Bill Runey shared, “This recognition beautifully reflects the spirit of DRiving Toward 2030. When our teachers ignite our students’ creativity, and we empower them to explore their talents, they shape a future that reaches far beyond the walls of our schools—even all the way to our nation’s capital. Our community should be incredibly proud.”

We are honored to have our students’ creativity showcased on a national stage and deeply grateful for the recognition from Senator Markey’s office. We look forward to celebrating this special achievement with our students, staff, families, and the entire Dighton community.

Congratulations to our student artists!

SPORTS UPDATE

58th Annual Turkey Day Clash Highlights End of Fall Sports Season

By Staff Writer, Mikey Alves

As the high school fall sports season for the Seekonk/DightonRehoboth comes to a close, both communities can reflect on another competitive season that came with a lot of gritty performances and memorable moments— both on and off the field.

The Seekonk boys soccer team punched its ticket to the postseason, finishing the year 6-14-2 and matched up with Westport in the opening round. The Warriors ultimately fell 3-0 on Wednesday November 5th, ending a challenging but developmental season. Though the record didn’t tilt in their favor, the team demonstrated resilience by competing in nearly every game and gaining valuable varsity experience.

On the girls side, Seekonk’s girls soccer team put together a solid season, finishing with a 9-7-1 record and had successfully fought their way to a spot in the MIAA state tournament. This team was led by a well-belanced roster of both efficient scoring and a strong defensive prowess. The Warriors battled through a competitive South Coast Conference league before falling 3-0 to Lunenberg in the opening round of the playoffs on Wednesday November 5th. Several players stepped into expanded roles this year, giving the program plenty of optimism heading into 2026.

Even Seekonk High School’s athletic director Kathryn Manigan said last month to “keep an eye on our girls soccer team as we move forward into future seasons.” Manigan also spoke about how the

CARLSON TREE

team has really “come together this year under the direction and leadership of new head coach, Savannah Amaral.” She already knew they’d most likely make the state playoff tournament as she said the girls “have a lot of young talent coming up the ranks,” Manigan added.

Moving on to Cross Country, Manigan said that Seekonk’s team most notably “embodies sportsmanship.”

“This group of kids are some of the kindest, sweetest kids you will ever meet. They cheer each other on but also cheer on the other teams each race,” said Manigan. Manigan mentioned how they had one athlete qualify for all states this year, “but the majority of our team still traveled an hour and half to go out and support her the day of (the all states tournament),” said Manigan.

Manigan discussed how every year on senior night, the cross country team holds a unique and heartwarming tradition. “The team gets a large cake for their seniors to enjoy after the meet, but invites the opposing team into the cafeteria at the end of the meet for dessert and refreshments. It is a program heavy in traditions and these long standing traditions have really bolstered the team culture!” Manigan added.

On the flip side, across town, Dighton-Rehoboth’s boys soccer team also earned a postseason berth this fall, finishing with 9-10-1 on the season and drew Boston Latin Academy in the first round of the MIAA tournament. The Falcons fought hard but came up short in a 4-1 loss, ending an otherwise competitive season marked by a strong midfield group and several breakout performances. The team struggled early on for much of the year, but something started to change in the team’s culture towards the end of the regular season. The Falcons showed flashes of strong play to carry nothing but optimism going into the 2026 season next year. D-R’s boys soccer squad went on a hot streak to end their regular season, winning four straight games before they were eliminated in the opening round of the MIAA state bracket.

But you know what? Nothing ends a season as spectacular and traditional as the fall sports season. Since 1967, the Seekonk Warriors vs. Dighton-Rehoboth Falcons annual Thanksgiving game has been an exciting tradition— this year was the 58th annual meeting between the two local rivals on D-R’s home territory. The Seekonk Warriors football team entered the Thanksgiving game with a 3-7 record, while Dighton-Rehoboth’s squad came in just one game sharper than Seekonk standing at 4-6 on the season.

While both teams have endured through plenty of trials and tribulations, ups and downs throughout the past four months, this historic holiday matchup offered one last opportunity to finish the season on a high note. But most importantly, this game determined who earned “bragging rights” for the next year for the community’s team that came out on top Thanksgiving morning.

On Thursday morning, November 27th at 10 A.M, the Warriors and Falcons battled to the bitter end. The first half was a back and forth defensive war in the trenches with both teams holding each other to just single digit scores. Dighton-Rehoboth led the rivalry game 8-6 going into halftime.

In the second half, Seekonk’s senior linebacker Sam Figueiredo had a clutch, game sealing interception in the 4th quarter… securing a massive 18-14 Thanksgiving victory for the Warriors. Seekonk senior quarterback Nico Bonafiglia ended his high school career throwing 4/9 for 58 yards and a passing touchdown. Bonafiglia had an MVP-like performance on the ground rushing for 132 yards on 18 carries, even running for a 63-yard touchdown. Freshman wide

receiver Cayden Trzuskowski also stood out, catching an incredible 40-yard pass from Bonafiglia. Trzuskowski ended the game with two receptions, 57 yards and a receiving TD.

Dighton-Rehoboth’s squad was led by junior inside linebacker Cooper Benfeito as he had seven tackles on Turkey Day. While on offense, as running back, Befenito ran for 39 yards with a rushing touchdown, and Maddex Mendoza rushed for 36 yards and a touchdown as well to conclude a nail-biting Thanksgiving Day Rivalry game.

Truthfully, in addition to the rivalry itself, the most unique aspect about this single game is how much more heart and emotion goes into a battle like this as opposed to any other typical football game. These kids play their hearts and souls out for all the seniors that they spent an unfathomable amount of time with practically every single day. Think about it— they spend an entire day in school with each other for a good 6-7

hours, as well as countless hours in the film room, hitting each other in practice, battling in games, having team dinners, outside hangouts, etc.— this final game means that much to these student athletes. Especially for the ones who will never step on the gridiron competitively for the rest of their days after they graduate come June 2026, both communities’ entire teams and coaching staffs wish for nothing but to end these seniors’ high school football careers on such a high, memorable moment.

With the winter sports season starting this week, athletic directors from both districts will soon turn their focus to basketball, hockey, indoor track, wrestling, and cheerleading. This process for both districts usually comes with selecting new coaches that would be the best fit to lead and command these teams.

On Seekonk’s side, Manigan said that when hiring a coach, you may think the priority is the coach’s wealth of knowledge in

the sport. She said that while the knowledge aspect of coaching is definitely an important factor, “it’s also crucial for high school coaches to be empathetic, understanding, and willing to get to know and adapt to the multiple personalities within the program,” Manigan said. “Student athletes respond better when there is a strong level of trust, and to build that trust, you have to work hard to get to know your students as athletes— but more importantly as people,” Manigan added.

Coaching updates and team previews are expected in the coming weeks, with full winter coverage returning in the January issue.

Seekonk cross country team in the school parking lot on senior night.

Seekonk football team holding the Thanksgiving Day trophy after their 18-14 win against the Dighton-Rehoboth Falcons.

Senior quarterback Dominic “Nico” Bonafiglia (center) holding the Thanksgiving Day trophy with senior teammates, lineman Jack Bryce (left) and linebacker Sam Figueiredo (right.)

Seekonk 8U Football Makes History with Super Bowl Win and Regional Titles

Seekonk Pop Warner Football 8U Champions!

The Seekonk 8U football team delivered a season for the record books, finishing the regular season 9–0 without allowing a single point. Their remarkable defensive streak continued deep into the postseason, giving up just one touchdown in the Super Bowl and one more in Regional play. By year’s end, Seekonk had outscored opponents 304–13, a testament to the team’s balance, discipline, and heart. Dominant on both sides of the ball, Seekonk didn’t allow an opponent to gain positive yardage until the fourth game of the season—and even then, only by a slim margin. Their success culminated in a 34–7 Super Bowl victory over Middletown, whose only regular-season loss also came at the hands of Seekonk.

From there, the team made program history, becoming the first Seekonk squad ever to win at Regionals, securing a commanding 32–6 win over the Mt. Hope Cowboys out of Providence, R.I., in a matchup held in West Haven, Conn.

This unforgettable season was powered by 24 players, two dedicated team moms, and seven committed coaches. Before and after every game, players united with their rallying call—“Seekonk on 3, family on 6”—a phrase that captured the brotherhood they carried from opening kickoff to final whistle.

In a bittersweet end to the postseason, Pop Warner issued a late ruling preventing Division 2 8U teams from advancing to Nationals. Coaches from around the region expressed disappointment on Seekonk’s behalf, noting that this small-town powerhouse could have made a significant impact on the national stage. Division placement, determined by town size, made the team’s dominant run all the more impressive.

Despite the setback, the Seekonk 8U team’s accomplishments shine brightly—a season of firsts, records, and unforgettable moments for a group that truly played as family.

Posie Biggs, a RIFAC Fencer from Seekonk Scores at Boston Youth Tournament

The Rhode Island Fencing Academy & Club (RIFAC), during the weekend of November 1-2, 2025, sent a group of eager athletes to Boston Fencing Club to participate in BFC’s second youth series tournament of the 2025 season. The program included separate categories for foil, epee, and saber, divided by age group: 14 years old or under, 12 or under, and 10 or under. The RIFAC group performed best in the 14 and under age group.

Posie Biggs, a RIFAC fencer from Seekonk, secured a top-eight, 5th place win in Y-14 Women’s Epee. She had positive results in pools with five victories to three losses. She emerged 4th after the pool round. Posie’s pool performance earned her a 1st round, direct elimination bye. She persevered until the quarter-finals where she finished 5th.

RIFAC is located in East Providence and focuses most of its attention on youth fencers. The Boston tournament was intended to provide an opportunity for youth fencers to experience competition and practice skills they’ve learned in RIFAC’s reputable development program.

DR Cheer Runner-Up at State Competition

The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School Cheer Team was State Runner-Up in the Massachusetts Fall Game Day Cheer Competition.

This is only the team’s second year competing in the MSAA’s Game Day Division. Game Day Cheer is a competitive cheerleading format that simultaneously a sideline game experience, with the performance designed to showcase the team’s ability to lead a crowd and build spirit. Last year, in their first season, they finished 10th in the State—a tremendous accomplishment for a brand-new program. But instead of being satisfied, they made it their mission to come back stronger, sharper, louder, and prouder. And they did exactly that.

Week after week, they took the judges’ feedback to heart. They pushed themselves, added difficulty, cleaned motions, refined counts, and rebuilt sections of their routine—sometimes daily—in pursuit of excellence. Their determination paid off: they increased their scores by an incredible 42.7 points over the course of the season, a 33% improvement.

But what truly set them apart was their spirit.

DR Cheer brought the Falcon pride everywhere they went— sometimes quite literally. This year, they introduced the full Falcon mascot, affectionately known as Felicia the Falcon, dressed in her cheer uniform and bow, adding energy and school pride to every performance. They also collaborated with their peers in the DR Marching Band, incorporating a live drumline into their Band Chant section—an innovative, crowd-favorite moment that earned tremendous praise from judges and spectators across Massachusetts.

Through long practices, constant changes, pressure-filled competitions, and a season filled with grit and heart, this team proved exactly what they set out to show the rest of the state:

WE ARE DR.

And this year, they earned the title of Massachusetts State Runner-Up in the Fall Game Day Division—a first for DightonRehoboth Regional High School.

Flying high with their trophy!

DR Cheer Seniors

Beckwith Middle School Sports

BMS Boys Soccer Wraps Up a Strong Season

The Beckwith Middle School Boys Soccer Team wrapped up a season filled with growth, sportsmanship, and steady skill building. Players worked hard throughout the fall, showing determination on the field and ending with a .500 record.

As the season comes to a close, we extend a special congratulations to our 8th graders, who have played their final game for Beckwith and will continue their soccer journeys in high school next year. Thank you for your leadership, commitment, and contribution to the program: Benjamin Amber, Andrew Avery-Pham, Dane Medeiros, Chase Moniz, Thomas Pierce, Alexander Quin, Ashton Sarrazin,Talan Saumweber, Finn Scamacca, and Keegan Sellers

Congratulations on a great season, and best of luck to our 8th graders as they take the next step!

BMS Girls Soccer Concludes a Successful Season

The Beckwith Middle School Girls Soccer Team wrapped up a successful and hard-fought season. Throughout the fall, the team demonstrated teamwork, resilience, and steady skill development in every match. Their growth and dedication were evident both on and off the field.

We extend heartfelt congratulations to our 8th graders, who played their final season for Beckwith and will bring their talents to the high school level next year. Thank you for your leadership and positive impact on the team: Kaylee DuVally, Macy Frissell, Cecilia Oliveira, Abagail Polychronis, Maeve Santos, and Amaya Turner.

Congratulations on a great season, and best of luck to our 8th graders as they move on to high school soccer!

BMS Boys Soccer

BMS Girls Soccer

Smiles, Sportsmanship, and Success: Unified Bocce Finishes Strong

The Unified Bocce season has officially come to a close, and what a memorable season it was! Throughout the year, the team brought endless smiles and demonstrated outstanding sportsmanship in every match.

Beckwith’s Unified Bocce athletes competed in four games against Massasoit League opponents, enjoyed a special match with the seniors at the Rehoboth Council on Aging, and capped off the season with a spirited showdown against the teachers.

Thank you to everyone (students, staff, families, and community partners) who helped make this incredible season a reality!

Middle School Cross Country Season Recap

The Beckwith Middle School Boys’ and Girls’ Cross Country teams wrapped up a spectacular season. The Girls’ team finished with five wins, while the Boys’ team earned four victories, showcasing strong effort and steady improvement throughout the fall. At the final meet, which featured nine teams and 59 runners, sixth grader Sean Beagan placed 7th overall with an impressive time of 8:50. Also finishing in the top 20 were Mitchell Ramos, who came in 15th at 9:12, and Lucas Laudati, who placed 18th with a time of 9:17. On the girls’ side, Malia Nepini had a strong race, finishing 20th out of 57 runners with a time of 10:30.

We extend a heartfelt thank you to our dedicated eighth graders: Lucas Laudati, Leland Hess, James Leonard, Mitchell Ramos, Hayleigh Guthrie, and Amelia Trexler. Their commitment, positive attitude, and leadership will truly be missed next year.

Congratulations to the entire team on a successful year!

Miles Gentile of Rehoboth Medals

Miles Gentile, a third grader at Palmer River School, medaled in the USATF Region 1 2025 Jr. Olympics Cross Country Championships held at Highland Park in Attleboro on 11/23/25. The eight year old finished 23rd in the 2K race featuring runners from New York, and all of New England. Miles had finished 17th in the New England Championships the in his first 2K race the prior week. He improved his time by 29 seconds running in the Regionals, which now qualifies him for the National Championships in Shelbyville, Indiana. Miles is the son of Christina Keiser and Angelo Gentile and competed for Fast Track Rhode Island.

Learn to Skate...

Classes start in January!

Skating lessons offered by the Pawtucket and Providence Figure Skating Club on weekends at Schneider Arena, Providence College. Lessons are appropriate for either figure skating or hockey. For more information, visit our website at ppfsc.org., and click on “Learn to Skate.” Or, email ppfscbasicskills@ earthlink.net, or call 508-212-2611 (ask for Gloria). Do not call Schneider Arena.

BMS Unified Bocce

BMS Cross Country Team

Miles Gentile

In Rememberance

David C Zaluski DDS FAGD

Louis J. Latraverse August 12, 1937 – November 6, 2025

Louis J. Latraverse

We have lost the most loving, friendly, easy-going, and considerate man. Louis

“Louie” Latraverse was known to many as Dad, Gramps, Grandpa, and Uncle Louie. He was always finding ways to help others and lift their spirits—especially if he could do it with a song. Louie loved sharing jokes, oneliners, and stories from his life, and he brightened every room he entered. Louie was a proud Navy veteran. As a young man in the 1950s, he left

school early to enlist and served aboard the USS Rich (DD-820) Destroyer. He valued the opportunities his service provided, especially the chance to travel, and he remained a steadfast supporter of veterans throughout his life.

After completing his military service and while supporting his family, he attended Johnson & Wales University, earning a degree in business. He went on to a full 30-year career at Texas Instruments before his retirement.

Family was at the center of Louie’s world. He met Catherine Cassidy and they spent 35 wonderful years married. They lived together at their home in Seekonk, MA, until her passing in 1996. Together they raised four daughters: Cheryl Quinn, Karen Gundelfinger, Christine Armoush, and Kathy Algier. After losing Cathy, he continued working, spent cherished time with friends and family, and made countless memories with his 11 grandchildren.

Louie later reunited with Mary LaPorte, and they spent the next 25 years married and built a life together in Pawtucket, RI. They shared simple joys—going out to eat, relaxing at Colt State Park, and enjoying the everyday comfort of each other’s company. Louie embraced Mary’s daughter, Alicia Griffin, as his own, and they loved visiting her farm together.

He enjoyed traveling, singing, dancing, camping, fishing, and taking boat rides. A proud Patriots fan, he looked forward to watching every Sunday game from his recliner. His hobbies included collecting coins, metal detecting, visiting yard sales, and hunting for hidden treasures. Louie loved animals and always carried peanuts and dog biscuits in his pocket.

In his later years, staying connected with loved ones became especially important. He cherished time with his family, including his 18 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He was grateful for technology, which allowed him to FaceTime with family out of state. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Deloris Latraverse and Jean Lavellee.

Louis J. Latraverse leaves behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, humor, and unwavering love for his family. He was so grateful for the life he lived and the care he received. His memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew him.

www.legacy.com — William W. Tripp Funeral Home – Louis J. Latraverse

Dr. Pauline “Polly” Barbra Warren

Dr. Pauline “Polly” Barbra Warren passed away unexpectedly on July 11, 2025 at 92 years of age. She was born in Seekonk, Massachusetts on August 25, 1932. The daughter of Albert Francis Warren and Bertha P. Tivey Warren, she attended Rehoboth schools and later East Providence High School.

With her scintillating personality and movie star good looks, she began doing television commercials in Boston and Providence to

promote her father’s business “Warren’s Turkey Farm” during the infancy of television in the 1950’s and early 60’s. She became an instant success, leading to her own cooking show and a stint as a newscaster and weather reporter. With her new celebrity status, she befriended the likes of Olympic gold medalist and professional athlete Jim Thorpe and was taught how to fly fish by Ted Williams, the “Splendid Splinter” of the Boston Red Sox.

Polly was proud of her Yankee heritage, being a relative of Richard Warren who came over on the Mayflower in 1620 and was a signer of the Mayflower Compact, the first governing document of Plymouth Colony. She was also a direct descendant of Dr. Joseph Warren, a Founding Father and Revolutionary War soldier who was killed at the Battle of Bunker Hill in 1775. She was also related to six US presidents.

Polly was a loving mother of two children and curtailed her earlier career to pursue a new one in the teaching profession, graduating from the University of Rhode Island with a master’s degree in education and psychology, and shortly thereafter a doctorate degree in psychology from Boston University. She worked as a teacher, guidance counselor, and school psychologist in the Attleboro, MA school system for many years.

She was an avid antiques collector with a love of early Sandwich Glass and especially carved decoys. After retiring from teaching, she helped build her son Ed’s antique auction business, now known as Americana Auctions in Rehoboth. Polly was quite knowledgeable and enjoyed greeting customers and assisting in various ways during the auctions.

She is survived by her son Edmond A. Warren Tessier and her daughter Susan Taylor and her two grandchildren Tessa and Jesse, as well as two great-grandchildren. Her son Edmond stated, “I will never say in grief I’m sorry she is gone, rather say in thankfulness I’m grateful that she was here”.

Jeanne Frances Goff

Jeanne Frances Goff (71) of Riverside RI, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on November 4, 2025 at Rhode Island Hospital.

Jeanne is survived by the love of her life, husband Brian B. Goff. She is also survived by her children Jarrod E. Olson and wife Nicole of Rehoboth MA, Amy J. Olson and husband Christopher O’Neil of Rehoboth MA, as well as Brent B. Goff and wife Taelor of Johnston RI. She was blessed to spread her love to

grandchildren Shayne O’Neil, Evan O’Neil, Cayden Bryant, Chayce Bryant, Maximus Jarvis, and Weston Goff.

Her love of family, friends, and neighbors knew no bounds. She was an “unpaid therapist”, welcoming everyone into her home to provide a listening ear. Jeanne enjoyed getting to know you deeply, initiating you into her family. She was also known as a second mother to many children, who sought guidance and support.

Just remember that loved ones never go away. They are always by our side, even on days when they may seem like just an illusion.

Jason K. Landry

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

Matthew J. Burns Michael S. Sladen

Polly Warren

Jeanne Frances Goff

Polly Warren, “Miss Turkey”

•To

•

Shirley E. Bateson

Shirley E. Bateson

Shirley E. Bateson, 90, of Rehoboth, died peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family on November 21, 2025. She was the wife of the late James G. Bateson, Jr. Born in Rumford, she was a daughter of the late Anders G. Olson and Ingeborg L. (Anderson) Olson.

Mrs. Bateson owned and operated Bateson’s Apple Farm for many years along with her husband. She was well known for her delicious apple pies and loved serving her many loyal customers.

She served as director of the school lunch program for the Town of Rehoboth until her retirement.

Above all, Shirley loved spending time with her family, especially her cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She leaves her loving daughters, Linda L. Farley & her husband Bruce of Rehoboth and Sandra J. Bateson of Rehoboth. Cherished grandmother of Wendy L. Martins of Rehoboth, Matthew J. Farley of Berkley, MA, James D. DiIorio of Rehoboth, Melissa J. Roderick of Rehoboth, great-grandmother of Marco P. Martins, Hannah E. Palmer, Hailey A. Roderick, Ryan T. Roderick, Lilyana E. DiIorio, Olivia S. DiIorio, Jason M. Farley, Alec J. Farley, Layla A. Farley, and great-great-grandmother of Milena E. Martins, Elena A. Martins, and Aurora L. Palmer. She was the sister of Kenneth R. Olson of Riverside and the late George E. Olson, Blanche L. Richmond, Robert C. Olson, and Ellen M. Zawislak. She also leaves many nieces and nephews.

Her Funeral Service will be held Monday, December 1, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. in the Home of J.H. WILLIAMS & CO., 210 Taunton Avenue, East Providence, RI. Burial will follow in Rehoboth Village Cemetery.

Friends may call on Sunday from the hours of 2:00 to 5:00 P.M. In lieu of flowers, gifts in her memory to Beacon Hospice, 1 Father Devalles Blvd, Suite 407, Fall River, MA 02723 will be appreciated.

Death Notices Rehoboth

• John Carvalho Silva, 84, known affectionately as John, passed away peacefully at his home in Rehoboth, MA, on October 31, 2025.

• *Ronald E. Blais, 86, of Rehoboth, MA, passed away peacefully on November 17, 2025. ~ Military Veteran ~

Seekonk

• Gustav “Gus” H. Klegraefe, 89, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 23, 2025.

• Sharon A. (Dusablon - O’Reilly) Paulin, 73, of Seekonk, MA passed away on Sunday, November 16, 2025 at home surrounded by her loving family.

Planning for 2026

Written by Lars Lambrecht, CFP, CLU, BFA, AMPA, CDFA, CLTC, CSLP, owner of Island Time Financial Services, Inc.

2025 is almost over! December is a great time to review and reset your goals and finances for 2026. I am including some major areas to be thinking about.

Goals. This is a great time to reflect and refine your short and long-term goals. There is a popular Harvard study on goals and income. Graduates were asked if they set clear written goals and created a plan to accomplish them, and were then studied over 10 years. 84% did not have specific goals. 13% had specific goals that were not in writing. These folks were earning on average TWO times as much as those with no goals. Only 3% had written goals and a plan. This group was earning on average TEN times as the other graduates. I am not suggesting you will earn more money by writing out your goals, but the likelihood of achieving your goals starts with defining them and creating a plan. Consider setting goals for your finances, health and relationships. Short term goals are things you want to accomplish in the next year. Do you want to modify your exercise or diet? Perhaps you want to plan a regular date night or special trips for your significant other. Would you like to join a new organization or get involved in new charitable activities? Do you want to build your cash reserve? Longer term goals might include firming up retirement plans, college planning, purchase of real estate, paying off debts or a special trip.

Savings Programs. This is a great time to review how much you are saving regularly. For 2026, the savings limit for employer retirement plans is $24,500 ($32,500 if you are 50+ years old). If you are not maximizing this, consider increasing your contribution by 1% every 6-12 months. If you are earning $100,000, a 1% increase translates to approximately $15 per week. However, if you do this over 5 years, you will eventually be saving an additional 10%. Psychologically, this is a great way to “trick” yourself into saving more and more over time. It is also a good time to look

Lars Lambrecht

at other vehicles like 529 Plans (college savings), cash reserve savings, and savings into IRAs and investments. Consider increasing your savings, but at least $25 per month. If you make more than $145,000 the rules change for 401(k) contributions, so speak with your advisor about this. IRA and Roth IRA limits increase to $7,500 in 2026 ($8,000 if you are over the age of 50). HSA limits increase to $4,400 or $8,750 (plus an additional $1,000 if you are over the age of 55).

Tax Strategies. If you are eligible to contribute to a Roth IRA or Health Savings Account, you can make contributions through April 15, 2026. If you are self-employed and don’t have a retirement plan, you can establish a SEP Retirement Plan up. Self-employed individuals can contribute to existing plans up until they file their return. Consider increasing pre-tax contributions to your work retirement plan or Health Savings Account. Charitable rules are also changing in 2026, so you may want to discuss these strategies with your advisor.

Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs). If you are 73+ years old, or if you inherited a retirement account, the IRS requires an annual RMD. If you fail to take this RMD, there is a 25% penalty tax! If you are turning 73 in 2025, you have the option of taking your first RMD by 12/31/25 or 4/1/26. However, if you take this first distribution in 2026, you will need to take two distributions. Your RMD is calculated based on your life expectancy and balance of the accounts on 12/31/24.

As always, I am happy to be a resource to answer questions in any of these areas, or provide a second opinion on your current financial plan.

Lars Lambrecht, Rehoboth resident and Certified Financial Planner® practitioner, is available to answer questions or meet for a consultation. 617-947-6428

Events & Activities

Autism Eats

Autism-friendly, non-judgmental family meals where all behaviors and ages are welcome. Our upcoming event is: Autism Eats “Eat a Meal with Santa” Sunday, December 14 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

The Hamilton Diner 1641 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk, MA 02771

Families will have a private room, a relaxed atmosphere, and the chance to enjoy a meal and visit with Santa without pressure to “explain” behaviors or worry about being judged. It is designed specifically with autistic individuals and other neurodivergent family members in mind.

Reservations are required and can be made at: www.autismeats. org

Genealogy Presentation December 20th

Bristol Chapter of Massachusetts Society of Genealogists, Inc.

The Bristol Chapter of the Massachusetts Society of Genealogists, Inc. will hold its monthly business meeting on Saturday, December 20th followed by a presentation beginning at Noon. This presentation is free and Open to the Public.

Kevin Desforges will present in-person “Preserving and Passing Down Your Genealogical Legacy”.

This two-part presentation will cover two subjects closely related: Tools to Help Your Life’s Genealogical Work Survive into the Future and Ancestor Photographs and Facial Recognition AI. After a lifetime of passionate research and compiling your family history, there comes a time when you consider who in the future will appreciate, benefit, and hopefully cherish your work and even build upon it. Let’s consider a few tools to help your life’s genealogical work survive into the future. The second part will be about how Facial Recognition AI offers a powerful tool to help identify your ancestors in other people’s photographs.

In 2006, Kevin Desforges began to focus his technical skills in the area of genealogy and the preservation of family legacy by starting Visual Ancestor ([http://www.visualancestor.com)/]www. visualancestor.com), an elite online library of ancestor photographs, after having been inspired by the antique community in Warren, Rhode Island. In 2022, he co-founded a tech company called Echodify (www.echodify.com) which specializes in passing on family legacies to future generations. Currently, he continues to pursue his passion for preserving ancestor photographs, bringing the subject matter into the realm of modern, AI-driven technology such as facial recognition.

Please join us at Noon in-person at the Somerset Public Library, 1464 County St., Somerset, MA 02726 or virtually via ZOOM.

Those who wish to attend virtually need to pre-register at https:// tinyurl.com/BristolDec25 after which you will receive an email confirmation with instructions for logging into this session. Do not share what you receive. It is unique to you. Closed Captioning is available for this presentation.

For more information contact bristol@msoginc.org.

A schedule of Bristol Chapter presentations is available at https://msoginc.org/chapter/bristol/ and https://www.facebook. com/msoginc.

Blood Drive in Memory of Bob McKenna

Saturday, January 24, 2026 from 8:00 - 3:00

The 13th annual blood drive in memory of Bob McKenna will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026 from 8:00 - 3:00. Due to a change in requirements by the State of MA, the RI Blood Center is currently unable to hold any drives in Massachusetts. As a result, this year’s drive will be held at the Newman Congregational Church, 100 Newman Avenue, Rumford, RI. The location is approximately one mile away from the previous location at Seekonk High School. The turnout for this drive has been wonderful in the past. We are hoping the change of venue will not deter anyone from attending. 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 web site (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 he would be thrilled that this event continues to be held in his honor.

They look forward to seeing everyone on the 24th.

From Edinburgh to London: Book Lovers’ 2026 Literary Journey Through the UK

August 8–17, 2026

A new cultural travel opportunity organized by a local librarian will take book lovers from Scotland to England in the summer of 2026. Edinburgh to London: A Book Lovers’ Journey, scheduled for August 8–17, 2026 will span ten days and highlight the literary and historical landscapes of the United Kingdom. Participants will begin in Edinburgh, Scotland, a city recognized worldwide for its literary heritage and vibrant book scene, before heading south to explore York, Jane Austen’s Bath, Stratford-upon-Avon—birthplace of William Shakespeare—and the prehistoric monument of Stonehenge.

The program, coordinated in conjunction with EF Go Ahead Tours, concludes in London, where travelers will experience the capital’s rich blend of history, architecture, and literary traditions. Travelers who wish to join a welcoming community of like-minded book lovers—sharing their passion for reading, culture, and discovery while exploring some of Britain’s most iconic destinations— are invited! For details, contact Suzanne Larson at SLarsonLMS@gmail.com 13th Annual

Bob McKenna

Southeastern Massachusetts Festival Chorus Annual Holiday Concert

December 13 at 7:00 pm

December 14 at 2:00 pm

The Southeastern Massachusetts Festival Chorus presents Sing We Now of Christmas on December 13 at 7:00 pm and December 14 at 2:00 pm at the Taunton High School Auditorium. Over 100 singers from more than 40 cities and towns will perform well-known carols from France and Germany, reimagined as rhythmic, contemporary compositions by today’s top choral arrangers. The concert line-up will include “Angels We Have Heard on High”, “Lo, How a Rose E‘er Blooming”, “How Great Our Joy”, “O Come All Ye Faithful”, “Silent Night”, and so much more!

Concerts will be accompanied by a 30-piece orchestra, comprised of some of the area’s finest musicians, and SMFC Bronze will ring holiday favorites on four octaves of bells. Tickets range in price from $18 - $24. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit smfconline.org or call 508-813-0697.

SCCC presents “A Holiday Celebration”

Saturday, December 13th, 7:00 pm

Sunday, December 14th, 3:00 pm

South Coast Community Chorale invites you to their 2025 holiday concerts. Two concerts filled with a variety of classical and holiday favorites!

Fall River, MA – The South Coast Community Chorale (SCCC) cordially invites you to their 2025 holiday concerts ‘A Holiday Celebration’! For their classical selections, SCCC will feature Haydn’s Lord Nelson Mass. Other selections will include The Most Wonderful Time of the Year, Chanukah Prayer, Holiday Road of Carols, Yule be Swingin, Sleigh Ride and additional holiday songs.

Get into the holiday spirit with some fun and beautiful music by joining them at their concerts on Saturday, December 13th, 7:00 pm at St. Thomas More Church, 386 Luther Ave, Somerset, MA and Sunday, December 14th, 3:00 pm at St. Joseph’s Church, 1335 North Main St, Fall River, MA.

Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 the day of the concert and at the door. Students 12 and under are free. Visit their website at www.sccchorale.com for more information and to purchase tickets online through Zeffy®. Follow SCCC on YouTube, Facebook and Twitter too!

Directed by Frank Wilhelm, the South Coast Community Chorale is a group of singers based out of Fall River, Massachusetts. Members come from Fall River and nearby communities including Somerset, Swansea, Dighton, Rehoboth, Seekonk, Westport, Dartmouth, New Bedford, Taunton, Raynham, and Middleboro. The group performs concerts each May and December for their spring and winter concert seasons. Past performances have included venues in Fall River, New Bedford, Westport, Taunton, and Swansea. In addition to their regular concert seasons, once a year, the chorale awards a scholarship to an area student who plans to pursue a career in the music field.

Holiday Guide

(Family Features) There’s no magic quite like the holidays through the eyes of a child. The season brings countless special moments and opportunities to make lifelong memories, from enjoying tasty holiday treats to exploring traditions with the family.

Infuse your festive moments with some extra magic this season with these family-friendly tips from the experts at Kinder Chocolate, who aim to spark, share and celebrate simply wonderful moments of togetherness between parents and children.

Decorate Together

Letting your family’s creativity soar is a terrific way to bond and nurture kids’ development. Let them take an active role in bringing festive energy to the household and allow them to make some design decisions, such as stringing lights and choosing the perfect place for ornaments or seasonal decor. You can also create a personalized wreath for each member of the family to display or decorate custom stockings.

Enjoy Magical Treats

From candy canes to gingerbread houses and beyond, candy and other edible goodies are integral to the holiday season. This year, make treat time extra special with an option like limited-edition Kinder Chocolate bar x The Elf on the Shelf packs. These special packs feature the beloved Scout Elf character in single, share and

mini sizes. Each pack also includes one of eight collectible cards with a special QR code that unlocks “Let’s Story!” - a unique, co-created digital storytelling experience via Ferrero’s free Applaydu app that lets parents and kids build personalized adventures together.

Partake in Holiday Traditions

‘Tis the season for traditions and creating your own makes celebrating together each year even sweeter. You might make trimming the tree a family affair, encouraging kids to try their hand at decorating or involving everyone to help clean up before a cozy family meal. Many families also make volunteering together an important part of their holiday experience, reinforcing messages about kindness and caring for all ages.

Look at Holiday Lights

Bringing the family together for special holiday experiences doesn’t have to be grand. In fact, a simple road trip through your hometown to find the most awe-inspiring light displays can bring plenty of fun. You may even find local light shows that synchronize to radio music in your car. Make it an extra exciting family outing by bringing along some hot cocoa and treats like Kinder Chocolate for the car ride.

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Available for Delivery & Pickup

Organize a Family Movie Night

Bring the vibrance of the big screen to your living room with an at-home family movie night. For a special touch, consider investing in a low-cost projector that creates a theater-like experience on any wall in your house. Choose a favorite family-friendly holiday movie (or two), some popcorn and treats then settle in for an entertaining evening together.

Pick up the limited-edition packs at local retailers, and discover more free, family-friendly ideas to last all season long at elfontheshelf.com/blog.

5 Tips to Get Your Home Ready for Holiday Hosting

(Family Features) Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner with friends or a full-blown holiday gathering, preparing your home for guests doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little organization and a few simple steps, you can create a space that feels warm and welcoming, allowing you to focus on what really matters: spending time together.

Declutter and Deep Clean

Start by refreshing high-traffic areas, including the living room, kitchen and bathrooms. Clear off counters and coffee tables, dust surfaces, vacuum carpet, mop tile or hardwood and wipe down glass or mirrors.

Tidy Up the Kitchen

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Christmas Trees!

• 4’ - 12’ trees • Wreaths • Swags • Seasonal Decorative Planters • And so much more!

363 Taunton Ave. Seekonk, MA 02771 Hours: Mon-Sat 7:30-4:30, Sun 8:00-3:00 • 508-399-8947

The kitchen is the heart of many gatherings, meaning it’s important to clear both refrigerator and counter space to make room for food, drinks and serving dishes. Before guests arrive, ensure your oven, microwave, dishwasher, garbage disposal, coffee maker and other appliances are working properly. Don’t forget to stock essentials like paper plates, silverware, napkins, ice and paper towels so you’re not scrambling later.

Refresh Guest Spaces

If visitors will be staying overnight, prep sleeping areas by changing the sheets, fluffing the pillows and stocking extra blankets. Thoughtful touches like fresh towels, water bottles and a charging station can make guests feel at home.

Create a Functional Flow

Think about how guests will move through your home. Designate areas for food, drinks, games and mingling, arranging furniture to encourage conversation. If you’re expecting a large crowd, add extra seating options.

Add Seasonal Touches

For seasonal warmth, swap out throw pillows, add greenery and candles or hang a wreath or other decorations. Scattering cozy blankets and simmering a pot of cinnamon and citrus on the stove can also help create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Visit eLivingtoday.com for more tips and guidance to get your home ready to welcome guests.

4 Steps to Wrap Christmas Presents Like a

Pro

(Family Features) Opening presents on Christmas morning is the highlight of the holidays for many, but getting the gifts ready to put under the tree can be a real chore.

Get those perfect presents ready for the big day with this simple step-by-step wrapping guide:

1.

Gather Your Materials

Having everything prepared beforehand can make the wrapping process smoother and more enjoyable. Before you start wrapping, gather wrapping paper, scissors, tape, bows, ribbons and gift tags. If you want to go beyond traditional methods, use fabric instead of paper for a reusable and eco-friendly option. Also be sure to clear a nice, flat surface to work on whether that’s the kitchen table or

2.

Measure and Cut Gift Wrap

To ensure your gifts look professionally packaged, measure and cut the appropriate amount of wrapping paper for each gift. Place the gift box (or item itself) in the center of the wrapping paper and pull the paper up around the sides to see how much you need. Once you’ve measured, use scissors to cut neatly for a clean, polished look.

3.

Fold Crisp Edges and Smooth Surfaces

Start by folding one side of the wrapping paper over the gift and secure it with tape. Then repeat with the opposite side, ensuring the paper is smooth across the surface of the package. For the edges, fold in the sides and create a triangle at each corner. Fold the triangle up against the side of the gift and secure it with tape. Repeat this process on the other side.

4. Add Bows, Ribbons and Tags

Once your gifts are wrapped, add the finishing touches. Bows, ribbons and tags can add a personal touch and elevate the presentation of gifts. Choose ribbon that complements the wrapping paper and tie it around the gift in a neat bow, or simply attach a premade bow to accent the package. You can also decorate the wrapping paper with stamps, drawings or stickers for a personalized touch. Finally, attach gift tags to ensure each present gets to the proper recipient.

Find more tips and tricks to simplify the holidays at eLivingtoday.com.

Unlock Holiday Cheer: 5 DIY Decorating Tips to Spark Joy this Season

(StatePoint) Research shows that everyday surroundings can make an impact on your overall mood—and when is a better time to foster some happiness than the holiday season? From warming up your space with cozy details to mastering the art of a quick room refresh, the right décor sets the tone for making magical, moodboosting memories during the holidays.

Follow these simple, budget-friendly tips from Duck brand to create a warm, festive space that brings the spirit of the season to life.

Tip #1: Lay a cozy foundation. Make small, intentional swaps in your living space to create coziness in cold weather. Rather than harsh overhead lighting, drape glowing strand lights from the ceiling, and line tables and counters with battery-powered tapered candles. Play soft, seasonal music anywhere by using removable, doublesided tape to mount mini speakers; toss a couple extra blankets over the sofa to promote snuggling (bonus points if they’re in red or green!); and leave a stack of seasonal books or movies in sight to encourage unwinding in the living room.

Tip #2: Pile on personal touches. Science says that decorating with handcrafted pieces can evoke a sense of both accomplishment and connection. Display beloved childhood holiday crafts and family heirlooms, like ornaments or glassware. Then, carve out time to make your own unique focal point. With a little imagination and duct tape, you can DIY your own Instagram-worthy decor. Consider cutting red and green Color Duck Tape into letter shapes to personalize a festive banner for your fireplace, then use duct tape to make holiday-themed frames to display family photos from over the years.

Tip #3: Refresh your hosting hotspot. For family and friends who are visiting over the holidays, cement your kitchen as a goto gathering space with a quick makeover. Cheer up countertops with a display of holiday mugs, hang festive towels and spruce up cabinet shelves and other surfaces with removeable, patterned shelf liner like EasyLiner Removeable Adhesive Shelf Liner. For a non-committal DIY that lasts only as long as you want it to, use the weathered wood pattern on a backsplash or kitchen island to add charming texture.

Tip #4: Engage the senses. Select seasonal scents to infuse into your surroundings. For a DIY alternative to candles, boil water

with aromatic ingredients, like cinnamon sticks, cloves, orange slices and vanilla, in a simmer pot for a nostalgic scent, or place bags of dried pinecones in bathroom and coat closets. And of course – baking cookies will create a fantastic aroma in your home, too.

Tip #5: Bring the spirit outside. As you make your holiday updates, don’t forget about the exterior. Try adding simple touches to high-traffic areas, like placing decorative trees or poinsettias on the porch, hanging a wreath on the front door, tying garlands to beams or hanging lights on the patio or garage.

Holiday Budgeting 101: Financial Advisors Share Their Top Tips

(StatePoint) Holiday season expenses are a given, but with a bit of planning and effort, you can easily include them in your budget. However, amid inflation, you may have concerns about balancing a merry holiday season with good money management.

CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professionals are sharing their top tips for keeping finances intact throughout the season.

Prioritize expenses: Examine your winter budget and see how much extra you have left for holiday-specific spending (e.g., gifts, decorations, hosting and travel). A financial advisor can help you adjust for these additional expenses, as well as fit a holiday budget into your long-term plans.

Remember, it’s important to keep your expectations flexible so that if you overspend in one area, you can reduce spending elsewhere. For example, if seeing family is a priority but visiting involves pricey airfare, consider suggesting a Secret Santa so that everyone is responsible for buying just one gift. Or, if you want to bring loved ones together to celebrate but need to trim expenses, consider hosting a potluck. Your guests might love a chance to contribute their favorite dish.

Find deals: Leverage technology tools to find deals when online shopping. Consider using a browser extension to automatically test coupon codes and ensure you have the lowest price possible or to learn when the price of an item has dropped.

Practice self-care: Give yourself the gift of a stress-free season by setting spending boundaries. This means being guided by your intentions, not peer pressure, when it comes to gift-giving, charitable giving and other areas where spending can become competitive.

Plan for next year: Get a head start on next year’s festivities by setting aside a little money from each paycheck into a high-yield savings account, starting now. Make this an annual habit to help ensure each holiday season can be enjoyed comfortably and to the fullest.

For help examining income and expenses during the holiday season, visit LetsMakeAPlan.org to find a CFP® professional near you.

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Support our Local Businesses this Holiday Season!

Don’t forget your pup for the holidays! Every pupdeserves a special gift!

Canine Cravings is a homemade dog treat business, baking all treats fresh with no added preservatives We currently offer five flavored biscuits & can even customize pupcakes to any flavors in stock.

Make sure to check out our specialty item: The Holiday Bark Box

Visit our website below to place orders or view upcoming events!

https ://w w w.caninecravings.net/

Now booking for the holidays! GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE

Visit our website for information on our New Doggy Daycare!

Make A Holiday Statement With Charming Poinsettias

(BPT) - Decorating your home for the holidays is the perfect opportunity to bring in rich colors and natural texture. That is why displaying poinsettias remains a top seasonal favorite in floral decor.

While poinsettias are mostly seen in their traditional deep red or crisp white, you can make a statement with your holiday floral design by choosing from today’s fun and unexpected colors, patterns and shapes.

Here are some of the latest poinsettia options that will wow your holiday guests well into the new year, from the garden experts at Ball Horticultural Company.

Color helps you customize your decor

New color options mean you can choose from poinsettia hues that best complement your home furnishings, holiday decorations and personal style.

Just peachy: You’re bound to turn heads with the truly unique, eye-catching Peach Glow poinsettia. This lovely soft peach tone is beautifully offset by dark green leaves, perfect for a table centerpiece or as a host gift over the holidays.

Light up any room: The unexpected sunny yellow color of Lemon Glow poinsettia brightens up the shorter days of winter, adding a cheerful pop of color to the season.

141 Newport Ave., Rumford, RI 401.229.3460 | www.chibischoice.com

Hablamos Español y entendemos um pouco de portugués!

Embrace autumn colors: The Skyâ„¢ Orange poinsettia reveals a striking starry pattern, enhanced by its speckled deep orange color. It’s a fun choice for Thanksgiving tablescapes or festive room decor throughout the holidays.

Shape brings new life to tradition

While still clearly recognizable as poinsettias, many of the newer options play with the shape and texture of their leaves and blooms, offering even more visual interest and variety.

Starry days and nights: If you love the festive star-like look of the Skyâ„¢ Orange poinsettia, explore other colors in the same eye-catching pattern, such as Skyâ„¢ Fantasy, a red speckled poinsettia that shines in any holiday display.

Southern favorite: The Christmas Beautyâ„¢ series is known to be long-lasting for many weeks of enjoyment. The Christmas Beautyâ„¢ Prince poinsettia features a subtle mottled red color and smaller, slightly rounded foliage, offering a classic yet refined look for an elegant tablescape.

Not a creature was stirring: For a fun and playful shape that may especially appeal to the youngest members of your household, the Christmas Mouse® poinsettia features charming rounded leaves that resemble little mouse ears. Available in pink or red, this whimsical plant is sure to bring smiles and stand out as a festive centerpiece.

No matter which colors or shapes you choose for your holiday floral displays, you’ll find plenty of different options in the latest poinsettia varieties to enhance your home throughout the winter months.

You can purchase these and other poinsettia varieties for your holiday decor, or as gifts, at your local garden centers and floral retailers. Visit Ball Horticultural to learn more.

Food & Dining Guide

Easy, Elegant Charcuterie Boards for Effortless Holiday Hosting

(Family Features) When holiday occasions call for you to don your hosting cap, skip complicated appetizers and hors d’oeuvres to instead serve sustainable charcuterie with sommelier-approved wine pairings. After all, simplicity can still equal premium flavor with the right meats, cheeses and libations.

It doesn’t take a hosting expert or pairing professional to create a spread that’s as memorable as it is delicious. Charcuterie boards made with just a few ingredients can start the festivities on a high note by wowing loved ones with your pairing prowess.

With flavor, sustainability and a personal touch, charcuterie can bring holiday occasions to life for you and your loved ones. Visit NimanRanch.com to find more seasonal inspiration and charcuterie solutions.

Prosciutto, Sottocenere and Aligote

Ingredients

• Niman Ranch Prosciutto

• Firm cheese, such as Sottocenere

Directions

• Toasted crostini

• Aligote wine

On a cheese board or platter, arrange buttery, silky prosciutto with Sottocenere, a firm cheese speckled with black truffle, or any firm cheese striped with dill or paprika or washed in ale. To round out these savory flavors, pair with Aligote, a white burgundy from France that’s citrusy but refined with hints of green apple and honeydew.

Genoa

Salame, Vintage Grand Ewe and Syrah

Ingredients

• Niman Ranch Genoa Salame

• Aged, firm sheep’s cheese, such as Vintage Grand Ewe

• Olives

• Syrah wine

Directions

On a cheese board or platter, arrange genoa salame, featuring the rich flavors pulled from the spices and wine used in its making. Pair with an aged, firm sheep’s cheese such as Vintage Grand Ewe, with notes of toasted almond, maple syrup and cultured butter. The sweetness of the cheese gives way to the genoa salame to be the star. Finish the board with skewered olives and serve with an unfussy red wine low in tannins like Syrah.

Capocollo, Aged Cheddar, Thyme Honey and Txakoli Ingredients

• Niman Ranch Capocollo

• Aged sharp cheddar cheese

• Thyme-infused honey

• Txakoli wine

Directions

Start your cheese board or platter with savory capocollo laced with pockets of cured fat that balance out the meat. Its mild smokiness works well with an aged sharp cheddar for a salty, intriguing but complementary match. Serve with a side of thyme-infused honey for herbaceous sweetness. Pair with Txakoli, a dry Spanish wine that’s easy to drink with hints of salt and pinesap.

Source: Niman Ranch

Chicken Florentine w/penne pasta

Chicken Marsala w/penne pasta

TRAYED APPETIZERS

Half Tray Full Tray

6-8 people 12-14 people

Seafood Stuffed Mushrooms

Italian Meatballs w/marinara sauce

Jumbo Chicken Wings Buffalo, BBQ or Asian Style

Chicken Tenders Buffalo, BBQ or Asian Style

Veggie Lasagna

Meat Lasagna

Four Cheese Lasagna

$60 $120

$65 $130

$70 $140

$60 $120

TRAYED LASAGNA

$55 $110

$70 $140

$55 $110 provolone, ricotta, parmesan & mozzarella

SALAD TRAYS

Caesar Salad

$40 $80 with Chicken

Caprese Salad

Antipasto with Italian Cold Cuts

Garden Salad

$70 $140

$70 $140

$70 $140

$40 $80

SOUPS

Clam Chowder Quart: $14.99 Chicken or Kale Soup Quart: $12.99

ENTREES

Half Tray Full Tray 6-8 people 12-14 people

Chicken Florentine w/penne pasta

Chicken Marsala w/penne pasta

Chicken Rossini w/penne pasta

Chicken Parmesan w/penne pasta

Chicken Cacciatore w/penne pasta

Chicken Sorrentino w/penne pasta

Chicken Frances w/penne pasta

Chicken Mozambique w/rice

Eggplant Parmesan

Penne Bolognese

Chicken Broccoli Penne Alfredo

Spinach Ravioli

(choice of marinara or garlic & oil)

Penne Marinara

Roasted Chicken w/mashed potato

Beef Tips

$90 $180

$90 $180

$90 $180

$90 $180

$90 $180

$90 $180

$90 $180

$90 $180

$90 $180

$80 $160

$80 $160

$70 $140

$45 $90

$70 $140

$130 $260 with mushrooms, onions and peppers

CHILDREN’S ENTREES

Chicken Fingers w/french fries

Pasta and Meatballs

Mac & Cheese

Mashed Potato

Mixed Vegetables

SIDE DISHES

$45 $90

$45 $90

$45 $90

Chicken Rossini w/penne pasta

Chicken Parmesan w/penne pasta $90 $180

Chicken Cacciatore w/penne pasta $90 $180

Chicken Sorrentino w/penne pasta $90 $180

Chicken Frances w/penne pasta $90 $180

Chicken Mozambique w/rice $90 $180

Eggplant Parmesan $90 $180

Penne Bolognese

Chicken Broccoli Penne Alfredo $80 $160

Spinach Ravioli (choice of marinara or garlic & oil)

Penne Marinara

Roasted Chicken w/mashed potato

Beef Tips

with mushrooms, onions and peppers

CHILDREN’S

ENTREES

Chicken Fingers w/french fries

Pasta and Meatballs

Mac & Cheese

$90

SIDE DISHES

Mashed Potato $35 $70

Mixed Vegetables

PLATTERS

Cheese Platter

Assorted cheeses, grapes, strawberries and crackers

Fresh Fruit Platter

Seasonal fresh fruit displayed beautifully

Crudite Platter

Fresh sliced vegetables. Served with ranch dressing.

4# Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail (45 pieces) – $180

Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail also available – $4 each

DESSERTS

$35 $70

$35 $70

11:30am-8pm

Rehoboth Girl Scout Troop #484

Seekonk Scouts November Activities

Seekonk Troop 1 and Troop 9 Scouts along with Pack 88 Cub Scouts participated in their annual scouting for food event, collecting over 11,000 pounds of food for Doorways, Inc., a food pantry serving Seekonk. Scouts collected, transported, and sorted the donations.

roop 1 Scouts volunteered with the Seekonk Land Trust at the Cushing Conservation area located at 98 Chestnut Street, Seekonk. Scouts conducted trail maintenance which consisted of widening the trail and fresh woodchips on the path. This project was the second time Scouts volunteered at the Cushing Conservation area this year. Previous work consisted of trail maintenance.

ovember’s scout meetings kicked off with an outdoor cooking competition. Patrols pre-planned food to present then had to add two mystery ingredients on the night of the competition. The winner of the evening’s event was a dutch oven baked red velvet cake with a mystery ingredient skittles topping. Runners up included tacos,

fajitas, vegetable soup, and spaghetti and meatballs. The Scouts experience with meal planning and outdoor cooking was good preparation, especially for this month’s campout.

Troop 1 and Troop 9’s November campout was a Campsgiving event at Camp Aquapaug. Scouts utilized their camping and cooking skills to serve a tasty meal of turkey and all the fixings including mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cornbread.

Scouts challenged their outdoor baking skills with dutch oven baked apple pie and monkey bread as well as hand cranked ice cream.

For more information about Scouts, contact Troop1SeekonkMA@gmail.com for boys or Troop9SeekonkMA@gmail.com for girls. Scouting is open to all boys and girls between the ages of 11 and 17. Follow us on Social Media for Scouting events, fundraising, and Eagle Scout projects happening around town: Troop 1 Seekonk and Troop 9 Seekonk.

CLASSIFIEDS

FOR SALE

24” Ariens Snow King Snowblower, 1 owner gas Tecumsa 8.5 horsepower, used very little, electric start, always serviced, New $1300, closest offer to $500. Call 774930-5059.

Soft roll-up bed cover that came off my 2024 GMC Canyon. It's a Lite Rider and it's 62" long and 53" wide. It's in great shape. $100. Call or text Bill @ 508-252-9000.

FOR RENT

Rehoboth 2-bedroom Home for Rent. Charming 3-bedroom house featuring an updated kitchen and bath, 3 season room, and a 2-car garage in a private setting. Enjoy modern updates, and a peaceful atmosphere. Available November 1st. $2,000. Call Vicki 401-458-2160.

Cozy bedroom available in South Seekonk: Room for rent Seekonk $1295 1/2 utilities or $1495 inclusive. Mary 508415-7909. Price home with large back yard. Safe On street parking. Listing with photos on www.FurnishedFinder.com listing #788078. If good fit, application fee of $39 for background and credit check. Shared living space and bathroom steps from room. Month to month. New rim smart TV with Netflix. Lock for room. Combination lock front door. No live in guests.

4-car garage for rent in Warren: Perfect for 4 antique cars because of long length and is clean, dry, secure. I am real easy to work with so any garage modifications according to your needs won’t be an issue. $800 per month or best offer. Michael 401-243-4467.

1 Bedroom Apartment for rent: East Providence, on bus line, clean, 1st floor, appliances and heat included, 1 cat, no smoking, $1600 monthly, call 401-952-0442.

FARM & GARDEN

Free seasoned horse manure by the bucket, barrel or truck. Call 508-353-7470.

WANTED

Cash paid for your military items. Uniforms, Field Gear, Swords, Knives, Muskets etc. Looking for Revolutionary War, Civil War, WWI, WWII, and Vietnam items. Text or call and/or send photos. 508-574-4392.

Wanted: Vintage clothing: leather coats, motorcycle/rock concert t-shirts & sweatshirts, sweaters, jeans 774-301-5420.

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.

HELP WANTED

Snow clearing: Elderly gentleman seeking snow clearing service, call Paul 401-434-9087.

PERSONAL AD

Nice guy looking for a woman: Between 50-60 for dancing and dining out. Call Kevin at 401-259-9393.

SERVICES

Housecleaning: Is your home in need of a really good cleaning? Whether you need a 1-time cleaning, or regular cleanings. Years of experience! (We include fridge and oven w/ our cleanings) Call Gil for details 508840-6611.

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

Bicycle Sales & Service: Your Bike Shops –Tune-ups on all brands. Now is the time to start thinking about the holidays. Shop Local this year! Riverside next to CVS 401-433-4491, and Warren next to the Police Station and the bike path. Call Art or Joe for *NEW* hours and service. 401-245-9755

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

2025 Christmas Stockings for Veterans Drive

The Tuesday Club of Assonet is collecting items for our local Veterans at the Veteran’s Hospital in Brockton and the VTH in New Bedford.

We will be collecting items until shortly before Christmas. For your convenience there will be collection bins at FIVE locations

Town of Freetown Town Hall

3 North Main Street, Assonet, MA 02702

Monday-Thursday 8AM-4PM, Friday 8AM-NOON

United Church of Assonet 9 North Main Street Assonet MA

Sunday before service starts at 10AM. Door is open at 9:30am. Door reopens at 11-11:30AM after services. Drops welcome before and after service. Center front door. Tuesday Club box labeled inside. Other times by appointment

American Legion Hall Post 121 80 Myricks Road, Berkley, MA Open Daily 11AM-10PM

Freetown Veteran’s Memorial Post #6643 of Foreign Wars

89 Middleboro Road East Freetown, MA 02717 Tel# 508-763-2292 Closed Sunday, Monday and Tuesday Open Wednesday & Friday & Saturday 4-10PM, Thursday 4-8PM ,Saturday 12-4PM Freetown Council on Aging

227 Chase Road, East Freetown, MA 02717 Monday-Thursday 8AM-4PM, Friday 8:00AM-10:30AM

For more information find us on Facebook: Tuesday Club of Assonet

For a complete list of supplies and projects visit our website at www.tuesdayclubofassonet.org Veteran’s page email: info@tuesdayclubofassonet.org

You may also contact Cathy 508-6421617, Grace 508-644-2266 or Barbara 508-644-5741 The Tuesday Club of Assonet