Rooted in Community Local Farms & Garden Centers see page 65...
Jules Olley, Clubhouse Manager
“I am proud to be the new clubhouse manager of Ledgemont Country Club! I have worked at other clubs in the past and have already found Ledgemont to be welcoming to both myself and the members we service. My goal is to ensure everyone has a great experience! Come visit us!”
-J. Olley
Zach Pipa, Head Golf Pro
“I am starting my first year as Head Golf Professional here at Ledgemont. We are looking forward to a great year of golf, tremendous course conditions, and excitement all around. Lessons are open to all ages, as well as new and improved apparel in the Pro Shop.”
-Z. Pipa
• 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
Must 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
Letters to the Editor...
The letters in this section and opinion articles do not reflect the views of the staff of The Rehoboth Reporter. It is not our intent to take sides on any issues, but to present all arguments from all points of view. If your point of view is not represented on an issue, it is only because you have not voiced your opinion. Let us hear from YOU!
July 4th Fireworks Warning
In anticipation of July 4th some warnings are called for. Last summer Seekonk seemed noisier than ever on that holiday, so apparently many households are not aware that fireworks are prohibited by law in Massachusetts. There are plenty of professional displays in a host of locales in the early days of July to sate the enthusiasm of fireworks fans. Private eruptions should not be needed and are ILLEGAL for good reasons.
There are too many wooded areas in the residential neighborhoods of Seekonk and Rehoboth that could be set ablaze by the careless use of these incendiaries, and injuries also are not uncommon among bystanders. This is why the Commonwealth has banned private displays. It would be useful if the local schools would remind students of the law; it would be great if warnings were posted on signs around town. Unfortunately, last year dealers in fireworks set up shop in temporary stands right across the state line in East Providence, giving the impression that fireworks were o.k. in Massachusetts, but they are not, and it would be useful, if our fire department and police force could post some placard nearby declaring the illegality of such.in Massachusetts.
It is far too easy for a small flame, whether a spark from a bonfire or fireworks, to set off a catastrophe. I know because I used to live in California, And my neighborhood burned down completely twice in 24 years! Recall that this year the nation witnessed days of fires destroying the beautiful suburbs of Los Angeles which were not nearly as wooded as Seekonk and Rehoboth.
Very sincerely, Barbara
S. Lesko
Symphony
Birds sing the tunes The flowers write. They sing their part With fragile might. It is the Symphony of summer.
Woodpeckers are
Such well-dressed drummers.
Don Gardner Seekonk
CONGRATS CLASS OF 2025!!!
Wishing you a summer full of fun, adventure, and exciting new beginnings!
Please Note:
• Letters to the Editor MUST be signed and contain a phone number!
• Letters to the Editor MUST arrive by the 23rd of the month!
• We will withhold any letters of an accusatory nature until the accused person has a chance to respond in the same issue! Email: news@reportertoday.com
Rehoboth Cover: One of the cute alpacas of Kave Rock Farm wants you to go visit them and the other farms and garden centers in our area! Cover photo and feature by Sofia Brown - see page 65. Seekonk Cover: Local teens promote the 2025 Summer Reading theme, ‘Level Up” at Your Library. Get ready for a summer filled with reading programs and challenges for all ages—children, teens, and adults! Take part in our yearly summer reading challenge, attend exciting events and connect with your community all summer long. Events and special programs begin June 3 and Summer Reading challenges officially start on June 18 with a kickoff event from 1-3 PM. Visit www.seekonkpl.org or call (508) 336-8230 for more information. Clockwise from ladder: Ava, Olivia, Jackson and AJ.
Rehoboth Town News
From the Clerk
Hello All – I hope you had a most enjoyable Memorial Day. I would like to take a moment to pause and remember all the brave men and women, and their families, who have made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our nation. Thank you for protecting the freedoms that we enjoy today.
June 3rd (Tuesday) Annual Town Meeting
As you know, Annual Town Meeting was held on June 3, 2025 at the Francis Farm Museum Building. Due to the printing of the Rehoboth Reporter, I will give you an update of the meeting in my July article. Thank you all who attended and thank you everyone involved with running our town meetings.
Census Forms & Street Listings
A huge thank you to the 5,477 households who returned their January 2025 Census forms. To date we have 388 households who did not return their census forms. Unfortunately, as per State law, all city and town clerk offices must “inactivate” all voters who did
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not return their 2025 census form by the first Monday in June and send them a confirmation mailing notice. If you are one of those voters, please update the confirmation card with your current address, sign the card and send the postage paid postcard back to our office. We have really tried to help update your census record by mailing the census mailer with the town calendar the first week of January, reminder notices in February, Registrars called your homes in March and a second reminder sent in April. Please update your census status and reactivate your voting status by returning the confirmation cards, which you will be receiving mid-June. Thank you.
The new Annual Street Listings have arrived. If you would like to purchase a 2025 Annual Street Listing for $15.00, please stop by. If you would like a free 2024 Street Listing, please also stop by. The FREE 2024 Street Listings are available while supplies last ~ thank you!
Dog Licenses Were Due April 1, 2025
Grace Period Ended – Citations Being Issued Soon
All dog licenses were due and payable by April 1st. After a grace period and several reminders, delinquent dog owners were assessed a $15.00 late fee, per dog, for any licenses that have not been renewed. To date we still have 482 dogs that remain unlicensed. The Animal Control Officer is calling all delinquent dog owners after our office has sent several reminder notices. We are truly sorry for the added expense; however, it is required by Massachusetts General Law, and our Town Bylaws, and it is unfair to those who registered within the prescribed timeframe if we don’t assess the required late fee. Please renew your dog licenses as soon as you are able ~ thank you. To date we have registered 1,882 dogs. Remember, in addition to being a legal requirement, registering your dog assures the prevention of rabies in our community, and provides easy identification to reunite lost dogs with their owners because they are now in our database.
Reminder to those residents 70 years of age or older . . . if over 70 years old, as per MGL 140§139(c) and town meeting vote, the Clerk’s Office will waive the $10/$20 license fee; however, you must still apply for the license and show the current year rabies certificate.
Congratulations All 2025 Graduates
I want to extend my congratulations to all 2025 Graduates for achieving your important milestone. I wish you all the best with your future endeavors! Much happiness to all the graduates and their families!
Anyone having questions regarding any of the above information listed in my article may call the Town Clerk’s Office at 508-252-6502, X3109, X3112 or X3110 or e-mail me at LSchwall@RehobothMA. gov. Finally, during the month of June, Kerrie, Jenn and I wish all the Fathers a Happy Father’s Day. Please remember to fly your American Flag on June 14th in honor of Flag Day, enjoy the Juneteenth holiday, and as Summer begins on June 20th, we also wish you all a happy, healthy, safe, and memorable Summer!
Thank you again for your continued support. Please stay healthy and safe! I look forward to talking with you in July ~ Laura ~
Laura Schwall
Nurse’s Notes
I am sure many of our young families are getting ready for camp as the summer holidays are approaching. Just a wee reminder to be sure that all health records are in order when you are in the enrollment process. Be mindful also to prepare for sun safety with hats, sun glasses and appropriate sunscreen. The camp councilors can remind your child to reapply sunscreen but cannot apply the sunscreen for your child. If your child cannot apply the cream sunscreen safely, the spray on product might be their best solution. Be sure to pack plenty of water along with lunch and snacks. For our graduating high school seniors that are heading to college or university in September, be sure all your health and immunization records are in order. It’s also a good idea to make yourself acquainted with where the health services are, on your college/university campus.
I know many of you have heard me say this often, but because I am still getting reports of tick-borne illnesses, bare with another reminder. As we head back outside to outdoor activities, particularly the garden, or hiking, or the ball fields, please be mindful to protect yourself and your family from ticks. Wearing light colored, long pants and long sleeve clothing will help you see more readily, if you have a tick on you. It’s also important to be sure socks are tucked into your boots to really minimize the tick’s ability to attach to your skin. And it’s best to do a full body check when you go back inside. If you do find a tick attached to your skin be sure to remove it from as close to the skin as possible and monitor the bite site for any redness (the concerning “bullseye”) or swelling for a couple of days afterwards. If you notice either, contact your PCP as soon as possible to discuss a potential course of antibiotics. There are tick removal devices and I do have a few here in the office, but they are easy to obtain from many online shopping networks. It’s a good idea to have such a device available so as to be sure to remove the whole tick if you find one on attached to you.
Soon it will also be mosquito season. To keep yourself and your family safe, avoid outdoor activities during dawn and dusk hours. To minimize the mosquito population, empty any rain or standing water containers on your property often, and use an approved insect repellant if you are out during peak mosquito hours. I will keep my web page updated (on the town web site) with the arbovirus report weekly.
As we head into the summer months our precious children will be out and about. Please watch out for them as you go about your day and evening, particularly on the roadways. I am seeing more and more e-bikes on the roadways these days. Most of the pediatric journals I keep up with suggest the child should be 10-12 years or older, have training and show proficiency on an e-bike, before they ride alone. It is the law in Massachusetts that a child on a bicycle or e-bike wear a helmet. Because the e-bikes can reach speeds of 15 MPH or more, it is crucial that the head is protect during a fall. A fall at that speed, should the child land on their head, has the potential to result in a fractured skull or death. And remember, Weeble’s wobble, but children fall down. And behind every ball that rolls into the road, comes a child chasing it! So, as we drive around during these summer months, we may not get behind the school bus, but our children are outside playing or involved in outdoor activities. So, if you are behind a child on a bicycle, don’t pass until have plenty of room and a good line of vision to do so with. It’s a good reminder to our new young drivers adjusting to summer time roadway activities as well. It’s not a bad idea to review the rules of the road for biking with your child also. https://www.massbike.org/laws
• Obey traffic laws: Bicyclists, including children, must obey all traffic laws, including traffic signals, stop signs, and speed limits.
• Ride on the right: Children should ride on the right side of the road, in the same direction as traffic.
• Signal turns: When turning, children should use hand signals to alert other drivers and cyclists.
• Stay alert: Children should be taught to be aware of their surroundings and potential hazards, such as cars, pedestrians, and obstacles.
• Use bike lanes: When available, children should use bike lanes to ride safely.
• Single file: When riding with a group, children should ride single file.
• Don’t ride too close to parked cars: Children should be aware of the possibility of doors opening unexpectedly.
• Wear a helmet: Children should always wear a helmet when riding a bicycle. For children under 17 years of age, this is the law in Massachusetts (M.G.L. c. 85, s. 11B (2)(iii))
• Practice safe riding: Parents should practice safe riding with their children, teaching them how to handle their bikes and be aware of their surroundings.
Our BP screening clinic has changed to Mondays only from 11:45 am-1:15pm, which centers around the Monday Luncheon, at the COA building @ 27 Francis Farm Rd.
The next Podiatry Clinic is July 3rd from 9am-12 noon, by appointment. There are a few appointments left, please call 508-252-5947 ext. 3127 to check availability.
Have a wonderful June and we’ll chat in July. In the meantime, be safe, be kind, be healthy.
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.
It is not our intent to take sides on any issues, but to present all points of view.
Seeking Volunteers to Join Rehoboth’s Personnel Board
If you are a Rehoboth Resident willing to invest a few hours per month to assist your town in maintaining a successful and productive workforce, please consider taking a position with our Personnel Board!
Ideally, we are seeking new members who can bring some experience in HR management and a working knowledge of employment law, but candidates with a background in related areas of business or a history of public service within a small municipality are also well suited for this volunteer role.
New members must commit to meeting one evening per month and be willing to research and evaluate employment policies and practices, edit job descriptions, review job classifications and do related administrative tasks outside of those monthly meeting times. Total time investment would be between 8 and 12 hours per month!
This is a challenging and interesting opportunity to bring value to your town while you learn more about Rehoboth and its town government! Our website shows our mission statement, agendas and meeting minutes - https://www.rehobothma.gov/personnel-board.
If you are interested, please email me at LEONARD.LEHRER@ GMAIL.COM and a Board member will follow up.
Best Regards, Leonard Lehrer Clerk, Town of Rehoboth’s Personnel Board
Rehoboth Animal Shelter News
At the Rehoboth Pet Pantry, the cupboard is bare! Located outside the Rehoboth Animal Shelter, the pantry is a place where people can donate cat or dog food, cat litter, etc., and where people who may have trouble affording food for their pets may take what
Anawan Fire Association House Number Order Form
they need. Currently, there are two scratching posts, some dog coats, collars and leashes, but no food. If you have some to donate, please drop it off. Thank you.
The shelter itself is uncharacteristically quiet as I write this. We are grateful that so many pets found homes recently, and we are preparing for the possibility that litters of kittens may appear with the warm weather by the time this is published. Kitten food and old comforters for bedding will be useful in that case.
To report a lost or found pet, please call the shelter at 508-2525421, ext. 126 or e-mail a.ruscetta@comcast.net.
Rehoboth Food Pantry News
Happy June, Rehoboth!
It’s hard to believe summer is just around the corner! The school year is coming to a close - congratulations to this year’s graduates! To those students who volunteered their time and energy at the Pantry this year: we are so grateful for your efforts. You’ve made a meaningful difference, and you will be missed.
While the holiday season often inspires a spirit of giving, we want to gently remind everyone that the summer months are just as important - sometimes even more so. With school out of session, many families experience increased food insecurity. If you’re in a position to help during the summer, please know that your generosity can go a long way in supporting our neighbors during this critical time.
This month, we offer heartfelt thanks to:
• Land-Tek Supply and Manny’s Auto Repair, two outstanding local businesses whose continued generosity helps sustain our mission.
• Betsy and Bob Branagan’s Thrive Group, who created thoughtful birthday kits (including cake mix, soda, and candles) to help every child feel celebrated.
• Our Lady of Mount Carmel’s St. Vincent de Paul Society, for their consistent biweekly food drives and donations—your efforts do not go unnoticed!
A Quick Note About Donations
We’re incredibly grateful for all food donations—but we kindly ask that items not be dropped off directly at the Pantry. Our volunteers are not on-site full-time, and unattended donations may spoil or become unusable before we’re able to bring them inside. Instead, please consider dropping off your items at one of our local donation partners (listed below), or reach out to us to arrange a time for delivery. Your generosity is deeply appreciated, and this small extra step helps us make the most of every donation.
Pantry Hours & Contact
• Location: 51 Winthrop Street (rear of the building)
• Open Thursdays: 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM
• Call us at 508-493-1922
We offer confidential grocery delivery for residents unable to visit in person.
Make a Monetary Donation:
• Visit: rehobothfoodpantryma.org
• PayPal: Click to Donate
• Or mail a check to: The Rehoboth Food Pantry, 51 Winthrop Street, Rehoboth, MA 02769
Donation Drop-Off Locations:
• Blanding Library – Bay State Rd.
• Land-Tek – 477 Winthrop St.
• Loraine’s Stitch ’n’ Crafts – 235 Winthrop St.
Please write your address number below…
• Munroe Feed & Supply – 200 Fairview Ave.
• Harvest Tap & Table – 2685 GAR Hwy, Swansea
Thank you, Rehoboth, for continuing to show up with compassion and generosity. Together, we ensure no neighbor goes without. Warmly,
The Rehoboth Food Pantry Board & Volunteers
News From Rehoboth Land Trust
Last Call for RLT’s Photo Contest!
Submit your photos of nature by June 30, 2025
Do you have a passion for capturing the beauty of plants, animals, and stunning landscapes? The Rehoboth Land Trust invites photographers of all levels – whether you’re a hobbyist or a seasoned pro – to participate in our photo contest!
This is your chance to have your work featured on the puzzle design for RLT’s second annual Puzzle-A-Thon fundraiser in September. Our panel of guest judges will select the most captivating images to be showcased, helping raise funds for a cause you care about – protecting the wildlife and natural landscapes of Rehoboth!
Contest Details:
Theme: photos must feature plants, animals, or natural landscapes in Rehoboth. No human-made structures please.
Eligibility: Open to all ages and skill levels. Photos can be taken anywhere in Rehoboth, but we’d love to see pics on RLT properties!
Photo Requirements: High-resolution digital images only.
How to Enter: Email up to five submission(s) to info@rehobothlandtrust.net with the subject “RLT Photo Contest” before June 30, 2025.
Include the following details:
• Your name, and the name of the photographer (if different)
• Your phone number
• Location in Rehoboth where the photo was taken
• Date (or year) of the photo
• Description of the photo’s subject
• Age of photographer (optional)
• 1-3 sentences about what the photo means to you (optional)
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Trees, shrubs and perennials for our Landscape clients
By entering, you give the Rehoboth Land Trust permission to use the submitted photo in our 2025 puzzle design – credit will always be given. Big thanks to our local judges: wildlife photographers Dennis Goulet and Steven Brasier, Jen Joubert of Jennifer Joubert Photography, and D-R High School’s photography teacher Elizabeth Tache. Show us your best shot and help us celebrate the natural beauty of Rehoboth!
Kick Off Your Summer with a Live Animal Show!
June 28, 2025 @11a.m.
Goff Memorial Hall, Rehoboth, MA
Rehoboth Land Trust invites you to the third event in our Nature’s Voices Speaker Series. Get up close and personal with some cool critters by joining us on Saturday, June 28 at 11a.m. Zoo and rescue center Animal Adventures will showcase live creatures including an alligator, hedgehog, geckos, turtles, frogs, and more. If the animals are up to it, you might even be able to pet some of them! Learn about the wildlife conservation programs at Animal Adventures, and ways you can help protect Rehoboth wildlife. This event will take place at Goff Memorial Hall in Rehoboth and is FREE and open to the public. No registration necessary.
The Rehoboth Land Trust Nature’s Voices Speaker Series is funded in part by a grant from the Rehoboth Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency. Thank you RCC!
Rehoboth Land Trust, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization funded entirely by donations and run by dedicated volunteers. We are not a town committee. Learn more at www. rehobothlandtrust.org.
Rehoboth Garden Club Memorial Tree Planting
The Rehoboth Garden Club Commemorated Arbor Day on Saturday May 17, 2025, by planting a swamp oak tree at Francis Farm. Club President Paul Nunes welcomed club members and guests and spoke about the history and meaning of Arbor Day. Paul also shared the reasons why a swamp oak was chosen for this location, and its longterm benefits to our ecosystem.
The tree was then dedicated to the memory of Rehoboth citizens who made significant contributions toward the quality of life, protection, and personality of Rehoboth during their lifetimes.
The nominated honorees were Kenneth Abrams, Ted Ballard, Louise Harrington, Neal Harrington, Gert Messier and Suzanne Withers. Family members and friends spoke about their nominee’s contributions, hung their name plaque on the tree, and added a shovelful of soil to the planting. On one side of each plaque were the words, “Rehoboth Remembers” and written on the opposite side was the honoree’s name. Red, white and blue ribbons decorated the plaques.
Honoree name plaques hung
Linda McHugh and Paul Nunes
L–R: Robin Alcott, President Paul Nunes, Sue Withers’ granddaughter and daughter (Jane), Gert Messier’s daughter-in-law, Ed Ballard, Gert Messier’s granddaughter (Holly), and Tish and Skip Vadenais (daughter and son-in-law of Louise and Neal Harrington).
Wreaths Across America Campaign
Wreaths Across America at the Rehoboth Village Cemetery.
Poppy’s Crew, the official Wreaths Across America sponsorship group for Rehoboth Village Cemetery, proudly launched its 2025 fundraising campaign over Memorial Day weekend – kicking things off with a heartfelt and fun-filled appearance in the Rehoboth Memorial Day Parade.
“It was an amazing way to begin the season,” said a member of the group. “The town’s American pride was on full display, and we had a blast tossing our signature ducks from the Jeep to cheering spectators!”
Now in its second year, Poppy’s Crew is building on the success of its inaugural Wreaths Across America event, with even bigger goals for 2025, and looking to expand outside of the Village Cem etary. This year’s ceremony will take place on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at the Rehoboth Village Cemetery. The group’s mission remains the same: Remember the fallen. Honor those who serve. Teach the next generation
“There are so many meaningful ways for our community to get involved and help us honor our veterans — from sponsoring wreaths and flagging friends, to spreading the word and supporting our upcoming fundraisers.”
YETI Cooler Raffle - Celebrate in Style this 4th of July!
To power the campaign, Poppy’s Crew is hosting a raffle to win a patriotic YETI cooler, packed full of everything needed for a classic American picnic - snacks, drinks, paper goods, sparklers, décor, and a grocery gift card. A $300 value
How to enter: - Your wreath sponsorship automatically enters you.
• Help us hit our goal of 100 wreaths sponsored during the raffle period!
• The drawing will be held on June 29, just in time for 4th of July festivities.
• NEW! “Wreath it Forward” - Earn Bonus Raffle Entries With our new Wreath it Forward initiative, supporters can help grow our impact! If someone sponsors a wreath because of you and lets us know via email, you BOTH earn a bonus raffle ticket for the YETI drawing. There’s no limit - spread the word and boost your chances to win!
Flag a Friend - Paint the Town in Stars & Stripes This summer
Residents are invited to nominate someone special for a flag display through our Flag a Friend program. For just $17 - the cost of one wreath - you can send a patriotic flag installation to a friend, family member, coworker, or local veteran, either in honor or memory, or just to share some good old American spirit. Bonus: During the raffle period, every Flag a Friend sponsorship also includes one YETI raffle ticket!
The goal is simple: cover the town in Stars and Stripes and honor every veteran in Rehoboth.
Business Sponsorships - Support Our Veterans & Gain Local Exposure
Poppy’s Crew is actively seeking business sponsors to help support this year’s wreath-laying efforts and expand our reach to honor more veterans beyond the Rehoboth Village Cemetery. Business sponsorship benefits include: -
• “Proud Supporter of Veterans and Wreaths Across America in Rehoboth” sign for display at your business
• Recognition at events
• Recognition on social media
• Signage at events and on Poppy’s Crew apparel
A chance to connect with the community while supporting a meaningful cause “These partnerships help us grow, honor more veterans, and bring our town together,” organizers said.
Wreaths Across America Buy Back ProgramGiving Back Locally
As part of Wreaths Across America’s Buy Back Program, Poppy’s Crew receives $5 for every wreath sponsored, which directly supports local veterans and event operations.
Thanks to last year’s support, Poppy’s Crew proudly donated:
- $250 to the American Legion’s Veteran Heating Fund
- $250 to the Seekonk Knights of Columbus to support their veteran programs
The more wreaths sponsored, the more we can give back to those who served. To sponsor a wreath, enter the raffle, nominate someone for Flag a Friend, or become a business sponsor: Email: waapoppyscrew@gmail.com Learnmore:www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/NH0043P
Let’s make the 2025 Wreaths Across America event the biggest yet. Honor. Remember. Teach. One wreath at a time.
Nayana Chennapatna Manjunath MD, FACOG
Ralph Philosophe MD, FACOG FPMRS, FRSCS
Anayda DeJesus-Cruz MD, FACOG
Rajendrasinh Rathod MD, FACOG
Shuikee Rice MSN, NP
Finkle DO
Barbara Stricker MD, FACOG FPMRS
Greb MD
Townsend FNP-C
Rosa Bermudez Emmanuelli MD, FACOG
Diana Calogrias MD, FACOG
Jeannine Connolly MD
Brittany
Deborah Hayden MD
Jennifer DeCarolis WHNP, RNC
Lawrence
Michele
Rehoboth K9 Officer Honored
By Joe Siegel
Rehoboth Police Officer David Aguiar was honored as K9 Handler of the Year in a ceremony held Saturday 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.
Acting Police Chief Louis DiBacco, Sergeant Jason Ferreira, Detective Paul McGovern, and Town Selectman Leonard Mills were on hand to congratulate Aguiar.
Aguilar and his canine partner Edo have been regular fixtures at Palmer River Elementary School and Beckwith Middle School.
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. They both attended the Rhode Island Police Canine Academy, where they learned and conducted basic obedience, as well as basic emergency medical care for police canines.
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The pair are a part of the Massachusetts State Police Bomb Detection Unit as an EOD Canine Support. Aguilar and Edo had assisted them every year with two major events –the Boston Marathon and July 4th Harborfest on the Esplanade. In addition, Aguilar and Edo are called to assist on any bomb threats being handled by the MSP. The pair support local and surrounding police departments on search warrants for firearms and ammunition.
Photos courtesy of the Rehoboth Police Dept.
Rehoboth Approves Town Budget, Bylaw Changes
By Joe Siegel
Voters at the June 3 Spring Town Meeting approved the FY’26 budget and a number of bylaw changes. The budget for the next fiscal year includes $14.8 million for Town Government services. $24.1 million will be allocated for the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District. $1.49 million will be allocated for Regional Vocational Schools (Bristol-Plymouth and Bristol Agricultural).
This year’s budget represents a 2.8 percent increase over FY’25, excluding the fixed costs such as Health Insurance, Town Insurance and Pension, according to the Finance Committee.
The overall budget for the Dighton Regional School Committee’s operating and Capital Assessment increased 3.79 percent over last year. The assessment to the Town of Rehoboth for FY’26 is 5.63 percent or $1,288,967 increase over last year. This includes Capital Debt assessment of $623,800.
“Our high school enrollment is on the rise,” said Dighton-Rehoboth School Superintendent Bill Runey. “And more students are enrolling in our Career and Technical Education programs as well.”
Runey said the district hired a full-time grant writer, who has secured nearly $600,000 in competitive grant funding. “These efforts are aimed at lessening the burden on you as taxpayers while continuing to invest in the quality education our students deserve,” Runey continued. “The Governor’s budget has failed to keep up with inflation and unless action is taken, the financial burdens on towns like Rehoboth will grow heavier with each passing year.”
An amendment to the Zoning bylaws with respect to Accessory Dwelling Units passed with 140 in favor and 41 in opposition.
The bylaw states: “ADUs are allowed as a matter of right in the Residence/Agricultural and Business Zoning Districts, subject to the requirements of this Section. ADUs are prohibited in all other districts.”
“Only one ADU is allowed as a matter of right on any property. ADUs may not be used as Short-Term Rentals, as such term is defined in G.L. c. 64G, §1 or otherwise rented for a period shorter than thirty-one (31) days.”
“Relationship to non-conformities. If an attached ADU is proposed for a pre-existing, non-conforming single-family primary residence, the requirements of Section 270-6.1 of this Zoning Bylaw shall apply, as may be required, provided that no special permit may consider the ADU use or impose conditions on such use.”
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SEEKONK DENTAL
The MBTA Communities Act requires 177 cities and towns in Eastern Massachusetts — designated as rapid transit, commuter rail, adjacent, and adjacent small town communities — to rezone near T stops to allow for multi-family housing as of right. “As of right” means multi-family housing would be allowed to go up in the rezoned areas without special permits or other discretionary processes.
DR. FRANK CASARELLA & DR. LURI LEE
MBTA requires Rehoboth to provide 250 units “in an appropriate area,” according to Jay Talerman, the town’s legal counsel.
“We have to do it,” explained Selectman Lenny Mills. “So when people come in for permits, we want to make sure they’re (following) our bylaws we have now. This is our attempt to try to retrofit (the MBTA Communities Act) for Rehoboth.”
Opponents worried about the impact of non-residents being allowed to stay in town.
“It’s a relatively private community and we do not need transient people coming in and spending the week, two weeks, three weeks, in our community,” said Joe Nunes. “Let’s keep this community safe and let’s keep those type of individuals out of our community.”
A new bylaw in the town’s Stormwater Management bylaws was approved with respect to Land Disturbance and Post Construction Runoff Control for property that is less than one acre.
The wording in the town warrant noted: “During recent years, there has been a significant increase in real estate development in all areas of Town. During the course of construction of individual lots and properties that are not otherwise subject to regulatory oversight for stormwater and erosion control under the existing Town Bylaws and Regulations, the Town has incurred damages and others harms to its roadways and drainage systems as a result of the failure of persons to provide stormwater and erosion control measures at development sites across Town. These circumstances have resulted in unnecessary costs to the taxpayers of Rehoboth and public sentiment seeking better regulatory controls.”
The bylaw gives town officials the authority to issue a deadline to the property owner to complete abatement or remediation.
“The order shall further advise that, should the violating Person fail to abate or perform remediation within the specified deadline, the Town of Rehoboth may, at its option, undertake such work, and the violating Person shall reimburse the Town’s expenses.”
$139 New Patient Special! CLEANING + X-RAYS + EXAM
Voters approved the Consent Agenda which consisted of six articles, including the authorization of disposal of surplus Town equipment and materials from any Town departments, fixing the salary and compensation of all elected officials, funding for the Community Preservation Committee, and accepting the reports of the Board of Health, Blanding Library, and Housing Authority.
Other articles which were approved:
• Appropriate $362,500 from the PEG Access and Cable Fund for the purpose of supporting cable access services for the Town of Rehoboth
• Appropriate $1,285,986 for the purposes of funding FY26 Capital Items, including: $125,217 for the purchase of a 2024 Ford Super Duty F-550 - Chip Truck for the Forestry Department, and $500,000 to replace a Fire Department tanker.
• Appropriate or transfer from available funds the amount of $150,000 into the Town’s Capital Stabilization Fund.
• Appropriate the use of $16,000 from the Historic Preservation Reserve of the Community Preservation Act (CPA) to replace the roof on the Hornbine School and outhouse located at 144 Hornbine Rd.
• Amend Chapter 60, Personnel Bylaw, Section 60-3 A to state: The Board of Selectmen shall serve as the Personnel Board, whose service on the Personnel Board shall be coterminous with their terms as members of the Board of Selectmen.
Rehoboth Ramblings
by Leslie Patterson
Vaccinations Save Lives
While going through some old family papers years ago, I discovered a receipt for payment to a stone carver in southeastern Ohio for five gravestones. With horror, I realized that these were for the graves of five children ages 1 to 14, who died, probably of diphtheria, in two weeks in November of 1859. More recently, my sister discovered the country graveyard with these five graves in a row and took us for a somber visit.
The thought of watching five children essentially suffocating to death from this ghastly disease is truly horrifying. How did their parents go on after this? I guess they just had no other choice. One of the surviving children in this unfortunate family was a little girl who would become my grandfather’s grandmother.
The loss of one child is tragic but the loss of several children was a reality for many families before the huge improvement in disease prevention in the 20th century. Although the spread of disease was always (and still is) worse among children living in poor and crowded conditions, even well-off families could lose a child to diphtheria, typhoid, whooping cough, or yes, even measles.
I’ve heard it said that one reason for vaccine-hesitancy among some young parents these days may be that younger people have no memory of how grim life could be back in the old days. Growing up in the 1950s we heard stories from our grandparents about their little brothers or sisters dying in the late 1800s or at the turn of the 20th century. Those grandparents have been long gone for many years, along with their sad memories.
The major health discovery for children’s health in the 1950s was the polio vaccine. As I recall, it was distributed first as a shot, with boosters coming in the form of a sugar cube (a big improvement, we kids thought). I recall long lines at the armory in our town where we all lined up for the vaccine. Even if we didn’t know anyone with polio, we had all seen the photos of children wearing leg braces and even worse, others confined to an iron lung. Parents welcomed the new vaccine with huge relief.
The measles vaccine didn’t come along until the 1960s after I’d had the measles. I had a bad year when I was seven, with mumps in the fall, and in January a tonsillectomy, and then measles in the early summer. Like most kids at that time, I came though OK, though I remember feeling miserable (it was a long time ago now). But even though most children get through what we call childhood diseases OK, it is by no means certain, and the illness can sometimes result in dire complications, even death.
Measles is the most highly contagious virus out there, which is why the medical profession supports vaccination as the best way to keep an epidemic at bay. If someone with measles is out mingling with others who have no resistance to it, those other people are sure to catch it too.
Well, I’m not a doctor and I don’t believe you should take medical advice from someone who is not a doctor or other medical professional. Nor should such a person be giving out unproved medical advice in the first place. The web and social media have a lot to answer for.
Here’s an interesting new book, available at the library, from one of those doctors who is also an excellent writer (where do they find the time?). It is called “Booster Shots: The Urgent Lessons of Measles and the Uncertain Future of Children’s Health” by Adam Ratner, MD, MPH. Dr. Ratner is a pediatrician in New York City and over his career he has cared for thousands of sick children. He knows what he is talking about. He is also very sympathetic to children and their parents.
Dr. Ratner relates personal stories from his own family and of his young patients, along with the history of vaccine development from its earliest days as “variolation” to prevent smallpox until the time when smallpox was actually declared eliminated (a massive milestone in public health). He likes to say, “Vaccines don’t save lives. Vaccinations save lives.”
One reviewer called Dr. Ratner’s new book “at once a history of measles, a story of vaccine development and a guide for approaching vaccine-hesitant parents who only want what’s best for their vulnerable children—in short, an immensely valuable read.”
Francis Hall
27 Francis Farm Road, Rehoboth
Phone 508-252-3372
Fax 508-252-4716
Monday - Thursday
8:00am to 4:00pm
Fridays 8:00am to Noon
The Council on Aging will be closed on Thursday June 19th for Juneteenth
Russell Raiche will be playing the piano for us Fridays 10:00 - 11:30
Rehoboth Council on Aging
Book Club
The First Monday of Month at 10:00 Held in the Arcade
Join Our Walking Club
Mon-Wed-Friday 9:30AM
Please note new start time
Trivia!
Held on the First Monday of each Month
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
9:30 Walking Club
10:00 Bocce
10:00 Cornhole Toss
10:00 Barre Class $3.00
Noon Gert’s Café ~ Ltd seating ~ $5.00
1:00 Line Dancing $3.00
Tuesdays
9:00 Dancer-cise $3.00
•
•
10:00 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
11:00 Functional Fitness $3.00
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
9:30 Walking Club
10:00 Bocce
10:00 Cornhole Toss
As always all pricing is a suggested donation. Please sign up for Lunch ahead of time. This helps Chef Chico plan the meals
Rehoboth Public Health Nurse
Geraldine Hamel, RN MSN: Monday through Thursday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. 508-252-6502 ext. 3127 or 508-252-5947
Stephanie Reis, RN BSN: 508-252-6052 ext. 3128
Offering multiple medical services for our Rehoboth citizens: Home Visits, Vaccinations. Support groups: Bereavement, Caregiver Assistance, Dementia Support and more
• Wellness Clinic Wednesday 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:
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 S.E.A.T Chair Exercise $3.00
10:00 Sewing & Quilting
11:00 Functional Fitness $3.00
1:00 Hi-Lo Jack
1:00- 3:00 Crafty Fun Classes $5
Wednesdays
8:30 - 10:00 Breakfast
9:30 Walking Club
10:00 Fiber Arts (Knitting & Crochet get together. Jane Williams)
10:00 Bocce
The Rehoboth Senior Center’s mission is to develop and provide programs, opportunities, and resources to enrich the social, emotional, physical, mental, and economic well-being of Rehoboth’s elder citizens.
The Rehoboth Senior Center shall serve as a community focal point and an inclusive support system where Rehoboth’s elder citizens:
• Can engage in leisure, wellness, educational, and social programs that promote an enhanced quality of life and socialemotional health and well-being
• Can enjoy onsite meals prepared in the senior center kitchen and be served in the building’s dining area
• Can connect to their peers and community
• Can foster inter-generational relationships
and shared activities
• Can obtain information on and access to governmental supports and programs that connect people to transportation, housing, nutritional, and economic assistance
• Can gain access to health information and resources to support independence and ensure healthy aging in our community
• Can seek out opportunities for lifetime learning and volunteering and civic engagement
The Rehoboth Senior Center’s vision is to grow and expand our offerings while preserving our commitment to the dignity and worth of every person in our community.
The Rehoboth Council on Aging shall:
a. Provide, coordinate and link available resources to help meet the needs of the Town of Rehoboth’s elders.
b. Carry out programs and services that range from information on community education, referrals, outreach, transportation, Meals on Wheels, health screenings, inter-generational activities, crafting programs and other programs beneficial to our seniors.
Fahey’s Painting
short, productive, and endearing! Why? Well, 1. We elected our officers in record time. Our officers for 2025-26 are: Donna Howard, President; Marylin Martel, Vice President; Jane Williams, Secretary; and Clarence King, Treasurer.
and caring group for the next year!
ness quickly. Then we spoke with thoughtful consideration about our members who were ill and heard wonderful news about members’ positive happenings, like high school and college graduations, and family prowess (home runs!) Then…
Fahey’s
3. We came to the other good stuff of assembling thirty gift bags for seniors, recipients of Meals on Wheels in town. The process involved putting hand-made labels on lip balm containers, putting the AAA batteries in the 4” flashlights, tissue in the gift bags, and writing a special note for the gift. Everything was done with care, thoughtfulness, and efficiency, then delivered to the COA director, Linda Sherman, who would oversee the distribution. A project well done by all!!! (This was the first time our group has organized this project. Hopefully it will be an annual event!) Then - our delicious lunch was served!
Our next meeting will be on June 19th (Juneteenth, and the COA complex will be closed) at the home of Jane Williams, 95 Plain St., Rehoboth. Lunch will be provided. New officers will be introduced to all members, and a new fundraising project, along with beginning planning of the October 18th Annual Fall Bazaar, will be discussed.
Importantly, I remind all members that we WILL NOT MEET in July and August! Also, be ever mindful of what you would be willing to donate to the Fall Bazaar! Whether in time, baked goods, or in donated items, all will be greatly appreciated and gladly received by our members whom you may see at the COA over the summer! So, remember, June 19th at Jane’s!
Bring your calendars.
See you soon…
Donna Howard President, RSCC
The Seekonk Scene
From The Town Clerk’s Office
Happy June Everyone! June is the official beginning of summer and also the start of summer break for students. We would like to congratulate and wish all the 2025 Seekonk Graduates success and happiness as they begin their new journey.
In Recognition
In recognition of Lisa Lyon – Lisa began her career with the Town as a clerk in the Collector’s Office on December 8, 1999. Lisa was promoted to the position of Senior Clerk in the Treasurer’s office on July 12, 2004. After 28.5 years, Lisa has decided to retire. Collectively, as her friends and coworkers (past and present), we congratulate her on her well-deserved retirement. Lisa, you will be greatly missed. Thank you for all you have done for the town.
Annual Spring Town Meeting News
Seekonk held its Spring Town Meeting on May 12, 2025 at the Seekonk High School. Below is a report summarizing the meeting and votes. The complete set of minutes can be found on the Town Clerk’s webpage.
AOL ENTERPRISES
The Town Clerk called the meeting to order at 7:04 p.m. with a quorum of over 75 registered voters. The Town Moderator made a motion to allow the Town Moderator to proceed with all articles, even those that affect him personally.
Article 1 - To receive Town Officers or Committees reports. No reports were given.
Action on the motion: Motion passed.
Article 2 - To see what sums of money the Town will vote to raise and appropriate or transfer from available funds or borrow for Operating Expenses and the Sanitation Fund of the Town for the Fiscal Year commencing July 1, 2025 and ending June 30, 2026.
A motion was made and seconded on Town Meeting floor by the Board of Selectmen to increase line item 56 Section D-Education by $113,000. The total number for line item 56, Section D-Education totaled $33,856,464.
Action on the motion: Motion passed.
Motion was made and seconded on Town Meeting floor by the Board of Selectmen to appropriate the sum of $73,285,033 to defray charges and expenses of the Town for Fiscal Year 2026 for the purposes and amounts set forth in Budget Schedules A through J in column titled Select Board Budget 2026:
• The sum of $56,013,018 to be raised by taxation within the levy limit under proposition 2 ½;
• The sum of $450,000 to be transferred from the Overlay Surplus;
• The sum of $790,368 to be transferred from Ambulance Fees;
• The sum of $62,381 to be transferred from the Sanitation Enterprise Fund
Action on the motion: Motion passed.
Motion was made and seconded on Town Meeting floor by the Board of Selectmen to appropriate the sum of $1,950,256 to defray charges and expenses of operating the Sanitation Enterprise Fund for the Fiscal Year 2026 for the purpose and amount set forth in Schedule K in the column titled Select Board Recommended Budget 2026: the sum of $1,950,256 to be provided from revenues of the Sanitation Enterprise Fund.
Action on the motion: Motion passed.
Article 3 - To see if the Town will vote to fix the salary and compensation for the elected and appointed officials of the Town as provided by GL c 41, s108 for their services for the fiscal year commencing July 1, 2025, provided that any part-time elected official may waive receipt of compensation.
Action on the motion: Motion passed
Article 4 - To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from the Municipal Capital Stabilization fund or available funds in the treasury, or transfer from designated funds that have been reserved for appropriation the following sums to be expended for departmental equipment and all incidental and related expenses, including new or continuing leases for such equipment, and further to authorize appropriate Town officials to enter into contracts for more than three years for such purposes.
Action on Motion: Motion passed
Article 5 - To see if the Town of Seekonk will vote to appropriate from the Community Preservation Fund Fiscal Year 2026 estimated annual revenues the sum of $33,203 for administrative expenses of the Community Preservation Committee for Fiscal Year ending June 30, 2026; and further reserve for future appropriation the following sums from Fiscal Year 2026 estimated revenues, as recommended by the Community Preservation Committee, with each item to be considered a separate reservation.
Historic Resources Reserve: $66,406
Kristen L’Heureux
Lorraine Sorel
Community Preservation Reserve: $66,406
Open Space Reserve: $66,406
FY 2026 Budgeted Reserve: $431,641
Action on Motion: Motion passed
Article 6 - To see if the Town appropriate the sum of $825,000 from the Community Preservation Fund Undesignated Reserve for the Medeiros Farm Committee, with such sums to be expended under the direction of the Select Board, for designer services for the Medeiros Farm project at Elm Street and Lincoln Street.
Action on the motion: Motion passed Article 7 - To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to dispose of surplus property or material, exclusive of buildings and land, but including compost, no longer needed by the Town.
Action on the motion: Motion passed Article 8 - To see if the Town will vote to transfer a sum of money from Free Cash to the FY 2025 Town Meeting Operating Budget Line Item #69 (Snow & Ice Expenses).
Action on the motion: Motion passed Article 9 - To see if the Town will vote to appropriate from Ambulance Receipts the sum of $119,797.25 for the second year of a four (4) year lease/purchase for an EMS/ Rescue vehicle for the Fire Department, to be expended under the direction of the Select Board
Action on the motion: Motion passed Article 10 - To see if the Town will vote to transfer from the PEG Cable Access and Cable Related fund the sum of $135,182.60 as a grant to Seekonk Cable Access, Inc., the Town’s PEG Access Provider, and transfer the additional sum of $50,000, to be held by the Select Board, and transferred to Seekonk Cable Access as a grant if, in the sole discretion of the Select Board, Seekonk Cable Access, Inc. needs additional funds to carry out its PEG Access Provider functions in FY2026
Action on the motion: Motion passed Article 11 - To see if the Town will vote to transfer from the PEG Cable Access and Cable Related fund the sum of $83,000 to Seekonk Public Schools for PEG purposes.
Action on the motion: Motion passed Article 12 - To see if the Town will vote to accept General Laws Chapter 59, Section 5, Clause 22I, added by Chapter 178 of the Acts of 2024, An Act Honoring, Empowering and Recognizing Our Service Members and Veterans, also known as the HERO Act, which authorizes an annual increase in the amount of the exemption granted to eligible veterans under General Laws Chapter 59, Section 5, Clause 22, Clause 22A, Clause 22B, Clause 22C, Clause 22E and Clause 22F by the percentage increase in the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the previous year as determined by the Commissioner of Revenue, to be effective
for applicable exemptions granted for any fiscal year beginning on or after July 1, 2025.
Action on the motion: Motion passed Article 13 – To see if the Town will vote to accept General Laws Chapter 59, Section 5, Clause 22J, added by Chapter 178 of the Acts of 2024, An Act Honoring, Empowering and Recognizing Our Service Members and Veterans, also known as the HERO Act, which authorizes an annual increase in the amount of the exemption granted under General Laws Chapter 59, Section 5, Clause 22, Clause 22A, Clause 22B, Clause 22C, Clause 22E and Clause 22F by 100% of the personal exemption amount available to qualified veterans, subject to the conditions in Clause 22J, to be effective for applicable exemptions granted for any fiscal year beginning on or after July 1, 2025.
Action on the motion: Motion passed Article 14 – To see if the Town will vote to appropriate from the Building & Infrastructure Stabilization fund the sum of $97,623.50 to fund the LED lighting upgrades at the Seekonk Public Safety Building, including all incidental and related expense.
Action on Motion: Motion passed Article 15 – To see if the Town will vote to appropriate the sum of $10,400,000 to fund the construction, renovation and expansion of the Seekonk Public Library, including demolition, landscaping, paving, utility and other site improvements incidental or directly
related to such construction and renovation, necessary architectural, engineering or other provisional and legal expenses and fees associated with the project, temporary library operation space, storage and moving expenses, furnishings and equipment and for all other costs incidental or related thereto: and, as funding therefor, to authorize the Treasurer with the approval of the Select Board to borrow said funds pursuant to G.L. c.44 §7 or any other enabling authority and issue bonds and notes therefor; to authorize the Town to apply for any grants or loans available for the project, and, further, that the amount of the authorized borrowing under this vote shall be reduced by the amount of any grants received for the project prior to the issuance of bonds or notes under this vote; provided however, that the vote taken hereunder shall be expressly contingent upon approval by the voters of the Town at an election to exempt from the limitation on total taxes imposed under G.L. c 59 § 21C (Proposition 2 ½) the amounts required to pay the principal of and interest on the borrowing authorized by this vote.
Action on the motion: Motion passed Article 16 – 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
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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, VOTED TO INDEFINITELY POSTPONE
Action on the motion to indefinitely postpone: Motion passed
Article 17 - To see if the Town will vote to amend Section 3.2 of the Town of Seekonk Zoning Bylaws and the Town of Seekonk Zoning Map to rezone from Residential-1 to Local Business the property located at 1484 Newman Avenue, identified as Seekonk Assessor’s Plat 30, Lot 87 containing approximately .58 acres of land
Action on Motion: Motion passed
Article 18 - To see if the Town will vote to appropriate from the Building & Infrastructure Stabilization fund the sum of $150,000 for repairs to the Dr. Kevin M. Hurley Middle School heating system, including all incidental and related expenses, to be expended under the direction of the School Committee.
Action on Motion: Motion passed
Article 19 - To see if the Town will vote to appropriate from the Building & Infrastructure Stabilization fund the sum of $300,000 for remediation of asbestos floor tiles at the Seekonk High School, including all incidental and related expenses, to be expended under the direction of the School Committee
Article 20 - To see if the Town will vote to appropriate from School Capital Stabilization fund the sum of $77,500 to fund the second phase of the updated door locks at the Seekonk High School and the George R. Martin School, including all incidental and related expenses, to be expended under the direction of the School Committee.
Action on Motion: Motion passed
Article 21 – VOTER PETITION - In accordance with Article II, Section 6 of the Town of Seekonk Home Rule Charter, we registered voters here by petition: “Any ten (10) voters may secure by written petition to the Board of Selectman, the inclusion of an article or item for the warrant or agenda of any session of the annual Town meeting.” To see if the Town will appropriate a sum not to exceed $9,500,000, (nine million five hundred thousand dollars), to pay the costs of constructing, originally equipping, and furnishing the new South End Fire Station, at 69 School St., on land owned by the Town of Seekonk, MA, excluding any funds for the cost of demolition of the existing structure; also excluding any funds for relocating the Communication Department from its current location of 500 Taunton Ave; and for payment of any and all costs incidental and related thereto, whether this amount shall be raised by borrowing or otherwise provided.
Action on Motion: Motion failed Meeting was adjourned at 10:50PM.
We would like to thank the poll workers, registrars, town hall staff, high school staff, police, fire, DPW, and voters for your participation in town meeting.
Special Election Information – July 21, 2025
Polling hours are from 7:00 am – 8:00 pm. at the Seekonk High School, 261 Arcade Avenue
You will be voting yes or no on the following Binding Ballot Question:
Shall the Town of Seekonk be allowed to exempt from the provisions of proposition two and one-half, so-called, the amounts required to pay for the bond issued in order to pay the costs of the renovation and expansion of the Seekonk Public Library building located at 410 Newman Ave, including the payment of all other incidental and related costs?
Early voting will be offered at Seekonk Town Hall, 100 Peck Street in the Select Board Meeting Room July 14th through July 17th during the following hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 7:30AM4:30PM and Wednesday 8:00AM-5:30AM.
If you are not already registered to vote, the deadline to register is July 11, 2025. Please visit https://www.sec.state.ma.us/OVR/ or www.RegisterToVoteMA.com if you would like to:
• Register to vote
• Update your address and/or party affiliation. It is your responsibility to notify us (in writing) if you change your address.
• Update your name
• Check your registration information - Knowing your precinct and voting status ahead of time will save you time on election day. Voters are required to file a new mail-in ballot application or absentee ballot application request every calendar year. If you would like to vote by absentee or mail-in ballot, please complete the correct application and send it into the Town Clerk’s Office. Both applications can be found at https://www.sec.state.ma.us/. If you would like us to mail or email you an application, please contact our office. You qualify for an ABSENTEE BALLOT if:
• You will be away from your city or 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
Whether you are completing your ballot in-person or by mail, please be sure to FILL IN the circle completely. Do NOT mark an X or only lightly fill in the circle.
Summer Hours Trial Program at Town Offices
The Town of Seekonk is launching a Summer Hours Trial Program to better serve our residents while also providing a more flexible schedule for staff during the warmer months. Beginning June 9, 2025 and running through August 29, 2025, Town Hall and participating departments will adjust their weekly hours to include extended hours Monday through Thursday and early closure on Fridays. Each department will operate on its own modified schedule based on operational needs and staffing. We strongly encourage residents to check individual department hours before planning a visit.
Building Department
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 6:30 AM to 3:30 PM
Wednesday 6:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Closed Friday
Health Department
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 6:30 AM to 3:30 PM
Wednesday 6:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Closed Friday
Human Services
Monday through Thursday 8:15 AM to 4:00 PM
Friday 8:15 AM to 12:00 PM
Public Works
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM
Wednesday 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM
Friday 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM
Town Hall
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Closed Friday
We’re considering changes to the Town’s operating hours during the summer months, and we want to hear from you! The Summer Hours Community Feedback Survey gives residents, businesses, and visitors an opportunity to share their thoughts on potential adjustments. Your feedback will help ensure any changes meet the needs of our community. The survey is short and will only take a few minutes to complete. Thank you for helping us serve you better! https://www.seekonk-ma.gov/forms.aspx?FID=73
Dog Licenses And Town Census Now Past Due
Per MGL Chapter 140 Section 137: All dogs 6 months or older must be licensed annually with proof of a current rabies vaccination. Failure to comply may result in a by-law citation fee. As of June 1st an additional $25 late fee is included with your dog license fee.
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We are still updating census forms. If you have not returned your census, please return it to the Town Clerk’s Office as soon as possible. Failure to respond to census mailings for two consecutive years will result in the removal from the active voting list.
Reminders From The Tax Collector’s Office
• Motor Vehicle Excise Tax 3rd commitment bills are due by June 26, 2025
• Motor Vehicle Excise Tax 2nd commitment are now on demand and due by June 10, 2025
• Motor Vehicle Excise Tax 1st commitment is now with the Deputy Collector (781-944-8504)
Real Estate and Personal Property Taxes:
• Fourth quarter was due Thursday May 1, 2025
• Demand notices have been issued for any unpaid Real Estate or Personal Property Taxes and payment is due in full by June 5, 2025
• Fiscal Year 2026 Preliminary Real Estate and Personal Property Tax Bills will be mailed the first week in July.
If you have any questions regarding your taxes, please contact the Tax Collector’s Office at 508-336-2930.
We wish you a happy, safe, and memorable Summer! As always, please contact us (508) 336-2920 or by email at townclerk@ seekonk-ma.gov if you have any questions. Thank you for taking the time to read the Town Clerk’s Office monthly update. ~Kristen and Lorraine
*Sustainable Seekonk*
By Christine Zadykovich, Recycling Coordinator
@ Seekonk DPW 508-336-7407
Dr. Lisa Daft Providing
Gian Calandrelli
Dr. Lisa Daft and Dr. Jared Stubbs Are pleased to announce Dr. Chris Vanderpool has joined
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! We’re excited to announce a new Special Recycling Shed at TARF, which will be open ONLY on the 2nd Saturday of each month 8AM-12PM, and will accept antifreeze, CFL & LED 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 both w/blue bulky stickers $8.50 as well.
Seekonk Transfer Station/TARF (351 Fall River Ave) is open year-round Mon-Fri 8am-3pm for drop off of yard waste (leaves, grass, twigs).
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.
Sustainability Survey: The Recycling Committee wants to hear from you! There is a survey posted on the Recycling Committee page on the town website www.SeekonkMA.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 that are still usable-post a free CURB ALERT on social media, or search donation near me online for pickup if you cannot drop off at any of the local resources like Savers, Goodwill, 4 Echoes or Angel’s Care Closet. If items are broken or 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 the Seekonk Library has way more than books? With things like karaoke machines, metal detectors, stud finders, instruments, cameras, computers & more, it›s an amazing way to borrow what you need & save money!
Recycling Tip of The Month: We cannot RECYCLE our way out of the mess that we’re in when it comes to waste-we need to REDUCE production and consumption-especially of plastic, and return to REUSING whenever possible. Far too many items are made with material that is designed to last forever, but used literally once, then discarded forever. Get ready for PLASTIC FREE JULY, join us for a special event at Seekonk Public Library on 7/24 6:30pm with games and prizes-and real-life ways to reduce the amount of plastic in our lives!
*Please remember to recycle right, and…. Reduce-Reuse-Recycle (in THAT order!)*
Seekonk Police Department to Host National Night Out
Tuesday, Aug 5th 4pm – 8pm
At the Seekonk Public Safety Complex
Join your neighbors for FREE food and prizes, games, activities and demonstrations
Fireworks are illegal in Massachusetts because they are dangerous.
There have been more than 550 fires and explosions involving illegal fireworks in Massachusetts in the past five years. Six firefighters were injured in these incidents, and damages were estimated at nearly $1 million.
Between 2019 and 2023, Massachusetts medical facilities treated more than 200 people for burns and other injuries associated with fireworks. Two dozen people were treated for severe burn injuries that covered 5% or more of the victim’s body.
Massachusetts law prohibits the possession, use, and sale of fireworks without a permit and certification. The law applies even if you buy them legally in another state. Leave fireworks to the professionals and see a great professional fireworks display this year.
Seekonk Land Conservation Trust Annual Meeting
On April 9th, the Seekonk Land Trust held its Annual Meeting at the Seekonk Library. President Tom Webb opened the meeting with a slide featuring a large map of Seekonk. On the map, Webb pointed out the over 800 acres of land in Seekonk that the Land Trust has helped to protect through acquisitions, gifts, Conservation Restrictions (CR’s ) and Agricultural Restrictions (APR’s) since SLCT’s founding in 1967. In the last year, the Land Trust received two new gifts of land adding another 17 acres.
Activities of the Land Trust this past year included three nature photo walks to support the Seekonk Library’s Annual Nature photo contest and collaborations with Osamequin Farm on a native seed planting workshop and a winter woodland walk on their property. Our Stewardship Coordinator, Jessie Blackledge, organized a volunteer clean up at our Allen Avenue property, a trail workday with Scout Troop 1 and other volunteers to spread wood chips at our Cushing property, and Earth Day clean ups at our Martin Reserve and other locations in town. The Land Trust continues to award grants to Seekonk schools for nature field trips and projects, as well as a yearly grant to the Environmental Resource Center at the Seekonk Library.
The Mary C. Wilson Community Conservation Award, named after the founder of the Seekonk Land Trust, was presented this year to James Viara. A lifelong resident of Seekonk, Mr. Viara recently donated 4.2 acres of land on Greenwood Avenue to the Land Trust. We are pleased to report that this land will be used to develop an additional area of hiking trails for Seekonk.
After the presentation of the award, Erin Flynn, an archaeologist who works with the Public Archaeology Lab, spoke at length about her work on local archaeological sites and showed slides of a number of excavations in the area. She also brought a fascinating collection of Native American artifacts and stone tools which everyone present was able to closely examine.
Flynn reported that traces of Native American civilization in our area date back 12,000 years. The Public Archaeology Lab does archaeological surveys, cemetery investigations, monitors construction sites for signs of ancient life and consults with Native Americans and tribes. Located in Pawtucket, it also has a lab for processing, analysis and curation. Anyone finding artifacts on his or her land may wish to contact the Public Archaeology Lab in Pawtucket, RI at 401-728-8780 for more information.
For further information, please see https://www.seekonklandtrust.org or follow us on www.facebook.com/seekonkLCT.
James Viara receiving his Mary C. Wilson Community Conservation Award from William Mason.
Erin Flynn, archaeologist.
Stephen E. Navega,
Durable Powers of Attorney
447 Taunton Avenue
Seekonk, MA 02771
T 508.336.8120
F 508.336.3350 navegalaw@aol.com
Providing legal services since 1979. Experience matters.
For over twenty years, Diane Fox poured herself into service to others by her ministry to the Doorways Food Pantry. Doorways is dedicated to assisting Seekonk residents who are facing challenging times. Sadly, Diane passed away recently, leaving a great many friends behind.
Diane was the beating heart of Doorways. She was responsible for ordering food from the Boston Food Bank twice a month, and she led a team of dedicated volunteers who unload the trucks, restock the shelves, prepare bags of groceries for delivery to shut-ins, and sort the constant stream of donated food. Without the behind-the-scenes work of Diane’s Wednesday team, the whole process falls apart - they are indispensable, and she was their leader.
Diane was also a constant presence at Saturday morning food distribution, greeting each client by name, treating each one as a neighbor and friend. She had a gift for giving. It was Diane who made sure there were turkeys at Thanksgiving, hams at Easter, and toys at Christmas. She touched the lives of so many, both directly and indirectly – her impact was incalculable.
Diane was a communicant at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church and her work at Doorways was her way of living her Christian Catholic faith. She will be missed by all of us, both shoppers and volunteers, who are part of the Doorways community.
As Christians, we refer to God as “Father” and desire nothing more than to see His face when we pass on. We hope that Diane was met on her arrival with the words “Well done, my good and faithful servant. Welcome home.”
Then the king will say to those on his right, “Come, you who are blessed by my Father. Inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry, and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me … Matthew 25:34-35
Ouellette Landscaping
Clean Up Fallen Trees & Limbs
Services: Spring clean-up, Garden rototilling, shrubs/hedges removed, small land clearing/overgrown area cutbacks, Brook/ Stream clean outs, and lawn mowing. Poison Ivy removal. Don’t forget the plant beds that need reshaping and new mulch.
Spring cleanup schedule fills up quickly
Empty Bowls IceCreamApalooza 2025
Jacqueline “Jackie” Glum is the Art Teacher at Seekonk High School. In 2022, she had a vision of a project that would help connect Seekonk students to the community and foster a culture of service and caring. She was inspired to create a variation on the “Empty Bowls” theme, customized to appeal to a younger crowd (for example, her event features bowls of ice cream instead of the more traditional bowls of soup.) But, as with all “Empty Bowl” events, the goal was to help fight hunger.
Jackie obtained a grant from the Seekonk Cultural Council to purchase the clay used to make the bowls and involved students from the high school and both elementary schools in forming the clay into bowls. The clay was kiln-dried twice and then the students painted the bowls – a veritable kaleidoscope of colors and patterns. The bowls were sold at the event as a fundraiser for the Doorways food pantry.
The event itself, held at Martin School, had the air of a festival. Student musicians provided live entertainment, and a dozen gallons of ice cream were donated by the Hershey Creamery Company facility in Seekonk. “Celebrity scoopers” doled out generous portions of ice cream – the scoopers represented both the police and fire departments, the school system, town government, and the food pantry. A wonderful time was had by all - and the event raised over $1,400.00 for the Doorways food pantry.
“That money will buy a great deal of food” said Dave Francis of Doorways. “There will be a lot fewer empty bowls in town because of the work of those students – and their teacher.”
Worldwide, Empty Bowls events have raised millions of dollars to help end hunger; this was the fourth such event of its kind in Seekonk. The Doorways community is grateful to Ms. Glum and her students whose creative artwork anchored the event.
Diane Fox
Continue Their Fight Against Hunger
The Seekonk Letter Carriers conducted their long-standing springtime food drive again this year; food collected will benefit local residents, as all the donations went to the Doorways food pantry. The drive raised over 2,500 pounds of food, thanks to the generosity of the people of Seekonk and the willingness of the letter carriers to undertake the extra work involved in collecting the donations.
The National Association of Letter Carriers has been conducting the food drive as a nationwide initiative since 1993, and the Seekonk Letter Carriers have been collecting for Doorways since the pantry opened in 2001. Over 70 local families rely on Doorways on a regular basis, and Doorways in turn relies on people like the letter carriers and their postal patrons. We thank the community and especially the Letter Carriers for taking the time to help us in our mission.
IceCreamApalooza participants: Jackie Glum (center) with Gerry McCabe, Emily Fasteson and Paul Hodge of Doorways
Seekonk letter carriers fight against hunger.
Aitken Principal Search Committee Formed
By Joe Siegel
A search committee for a new Principal at Aitken Elementary School has been launched. Principal David Graf is leaving at the end of the school year.
Assistant Superintendent Zach Waddicor said Monday there is a “pretty healthy pool” of applicants for the position. 17 candidates have submitted their resumes to the committee. Waddicor said there are 12 committee members, which include central office administrators, school committee members, teachers, and parents.
Six to ten candidates will be interviewed over the course of two days and a list of finalists will be sent to the Superintendent for another round of interviews.
Waddicor hopes Graf’s replacement will be hired before the conclusion of the school year in June. “It’s an ambitious timeline due to the time of year, but I’m really fortunate that we already have 17 applicants,” Waddicor said, noting many of them are already certified and are sitting principals or assistant principals.
Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell said a search is also underway for a part-time athletic administrator position. Seekonk High School Principal William Whalen and Hurley Middle School Principal Alexis Bouchard will serve as co-chairs for the search. “There will be a committee doing full interviews,” Kidwell noted.
The position does not have a timeline. However, Whalen and Bouchard have scheduled the committee for interview dates at the end of May, and invitations to selected candidates will be made after the advertisement closes on May 14. Kidwell expects the position will be filled early in June. The start date is July 1.
Library Renovations Approved, Fire Station Defeated
By Joe Siegel
The $10.4 million Seekonk Public Library renovation project was approved at Monday’s Town Meeting. The vote was 240 in favor with 74 in opposition. The next step is for voters to approve a debt exclusion in a special election.
A feasibility study was conducted in late 2023/early 2024 and the final report was issued last November. The library, which was built in 1978, is in desperate need of repairs. There was a heating system failure last winter, which caused the library to close its doors.
Voters at the October 2022 Town Meeting rejected authorizing funds to construct a $24 million building. The new building would have replaced the current 14,880 square foot facility at 410 Newman Avenue.
A proposed $9.5 million South End Fire Station was defeated, by a vote of 112 – 108. A two thirds vote was needed to pass. The warrant article was submitted by Voter Petition.
Voters at the May 2020 town meeting allocated $425,000 for the design of the facility at the site of the former school administration building at 69 School Street. The town intends to demolish that property. The 8300 square foot building would have consisted of three components, including dispatch, living quarters, and fire suppression.
Advocates for the project noted the increased number of calls for service in the south end of Seekonk.
Town Administrator Shawn Cadime said he supported the project but wanted to make sure the new station was “properly staffed.”
Fire Chief Shaun Whalen explained that if the station were to be built, some firefighters would need to be reassigned from the other two stations. Additional staff would also need to be hired.
Voters approved a budget of $75.2 million for FY’26, which begins July 1. That figure represents a 3.3 percent increase over the current fiscal year.
The largest portion of the budget is education, which totals $35.8 million. Of that amount, $33.7 million is designated for Seekonk Public Schools. That’s a 2.5 percent increase over the current fiscal year. Foundation enrollment is 2, 040 – a decrease of 36 students.
The Tri County Regional School assessment is $2 million, a 44 percent increase. Seekonk represents 8.8 percent of the foundation enrollment, totaling 84 students. The required town contribution is $1 million over a 30 year period. The debt assessment is $635,000. Other articles which were approved:
• Appropriate $825,000 from the Community Preservation Fund Undesignated Reserve, as requested by the Medeiros Farm Committee, with such sums to be expended under the direction of the Select Board, for designer services for the Medeiros Farm project at Elm Street and Lincoln Street.
• Appropriate from Ambulance Receipts the sum of $119,797.25 for the second year of a four (4) year lease/purchase for an EMS/Rescue vehicle for the Fire Department.
• Appropriate from the Building & Infrastructure Stabilization fund the sum of $150,000 for repairs to the Dr. Kevin M. Hurley Middle School heating system, including all incidental and related expenses, to be expended under the direction of the School Committee.
• Appropriate from the Building & Infrastructure Stabilization Fund the sum of $300,000 for remediation of asbestos floor tiles at the Seekonk High School.
• Appropriate $97, 623.50 from the Building and Infrastructure Stabilization Fund to pay for the LED lighting upgrades at the Public Safety Building.
• Appropriate $77, 500 from the School Capital Stabilization Fund to fund the second phase of the updated door locks at Seekonk High School and Martin Elementary School.
Sagar Says Majority Supported Fire Station
By Joe Siegel
Although an effort to construct a new South End Fire Station in Seekonk was unsuccessful, Select Board member Gary Sagar intends to keep pushing for the project. “Despite the roadblocks, the rhetoric, by a majority vote, (town meeting voters) said they wanted a South End Fire Station,” Sagar said on May 27.
The vote for the $9.5 million project at the May 12 Town Meeting was 112 in favor and 108 in opposition. However, a two thirds vote was needed for the article to pass. The warrant article was submitted by Voter Petition.
Sagar asked Board Chair Michelle Hines to hold a discussion of the station at a future meeting.
School Choice Will Go Forward
By Joe Siegel
The Seekonk School Committee approved the district’s entry into the state’s School Choice program by a vote of 3 to 2 on May 19. Chairman Bob Gerardi, Lisa Rizzo, and Alicia MacManus voted in the affirmative with Kyle Juckett and Emily Field in opposition. MacManus amended her initial motion to designate a total of 20 open seats, which amounts to five for each grade level at Seekonk High School through the 2028-2029 school year.
The Seekonk Public Schools website notes: “The number of available openings for each grade is reduced by the number of school choice students already attending in those grades. Applications are now being accepted for the 2025-2026 school year for incoming students residing outside of Seekonk. Students must be residents of Massachusetts. Applications are being accepted until June 16 at 5:00PM and a lottery will be held on June 26, if necessary. Transportation is not available to school choice participants and will be the sole responsibility of the parent/guardian.
Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell said each student accepted under School Choice is accompanied by a $5000 yearly tuition revenue from the state. Additional special education costs can also be reimbursed by the state.
Students who are admitted under School Choice have the same rights as local residents in remaining with the district through graduation.
The committee’s vote resulted in a backlash on social media. A petition gathered 470 signatures in an effort to convince the committee to rescind their earlier vote. The deadline was June 1.
“Allowing out-of-district students into our schools poses a significant financial risk to our town,” the petition read. “State reimbursements do not fully cover the true cost of educating each student, potentially leaving Seekonk taxpayers to absorb the shortfall. At a time when school budgets are already strained, we cannot afford to take on additional fiscal burdens that compromise the quality of education for our own students. Our priority must remain on protecting Seekonk’s educational resources, maintaining class sizes, and supporting the students and families who live and invest in this community.”
Kim Sluter, a former school committee member who launched the petition, called the May 19 vote “disappointing” and “shortsighted.”
Noah Escaler, another former school committee member, said the vote was “uninformed” and “disgraceful.”
“I do not believe that an additional meeting as requested in the petition will be productive and my concern is that it may in fact cause greater division in the community,” Chairman Bob Gerardi told the Reporter on May 23. “The School Committee voted to approve a modest school choice program of 20 students in Seekonk for the 2025-2026 school year,” Gerardi continued.
“While attending a Finance Committee meeting before I was elected, the recommendation was for departments to explore programs that increase revenue. I believe that filling empty seats in (high school) classrooms with school choice students will be fiscally responsible for the tax payers of Seekonk.”
Gerardi explained that “declining enrollment at Seekonk High School from approximately 600 students to 500 students has negatively impacted course offerings.”
“I believe that increasing enrollment at Seekonk High School will increase course offerings for resident students. I appreciate the
Seekonk Library Vote Set for July
By Joe Siegel
The Select Board has set July 21 as the date for a special election. Voters will be asked to authorize a debt exclusion, which is a temporary tax increase, to pay for $10 million in renovations for the Seekonk Public Library.
There will be early voting on the ballot question the week of July 14. All polling will be conducted at Seekonk High School.
Seekonk Human Services
The center is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 8:30am - 4:30pm, and Wednesday 8:30am - 5:30pm and Friday 8:30am - 12:00pm. We welcome all to come and enjoy the activities and companionship at Seekonk Human Services.
Holiday Hours - Closed on Thursday, June 19, 2025
Hearing Clinic
Monday, June 9th from 1pm - 3pm
Chris Brissette from Hearing Life will be here for the Hearing Clinic. Appointments are scheduled every 15 minutes. Preregistration is required.
Kevin Richman Trivia
Wed, June 11th from 1pm - 2:30pm
Get your brains in gear and join your friends in a fast-paced game of “I Knew That!” Team Trivia on Wednesday, June 11th starting at 1pm. Quizmaster Kevin Richman will guide you through 3 rounds of trivia geared for you and your memories. We will also play a few rounds of The Match Game. Preregistration required.
Father’s Day Ice Cream Social
Monday, June 16, 2025 at 2:00pm
Let’s celebrate with an ice cream social! Come on down to enjoy some ice cream and good company. This event is open to all! Seekonk men are FREE. Women and non-residents are $2. Preregistration is required.
Butler Hospital Memory and Aging Program
Mon, June 23rd 11:00am - 3:00pm
What is a memory screening? Today’s screening is a “healthy brain check-up” that tests memory and other thinking skills. The memory screening is a series of questions and/or tasks that takes approximately 10-15 minutes to complete and can indicate if someone might benefit from a comprehensive medical evaluation. It is for personal use only and should not be used to diagnose any particular illness. This screening does not replace consultation with a physician or other clinician. Preregistration is required.
4th of July Party
Wed, June 25th at 11:30am
New Orleans entertainer, vocalist, trumpet and trombonist, Frank Noonan will perform, “A Musical Salute to America.” We will travel North to South, from Boston to New Orleans, with hit songs by Frank Sinatra, John Denver, Louis Armstrong and many others. Then we’ll head West on Route 66. During our travels we’ll sing, “America the Beautiful” and pay tribute to our Servicemen, Servicewomen and first responders with Satchmo’s, “What a Wonderful World” and other New Orleans classics. Lunch will be hamburgers and hotdogs cooked by Public Safety. Residents $10 and nonresidents $13. Preregistration is required.
Stroke Prevention
B.E. - F.A.S.T
Mon, June 30, 2025 at 2:00pm
Please join us for a presentation about stroke prevention and how you can lower your stroke risk. Strokes are the 5th leading cause of death in the United States and a leading cause of disability worldwide. According to the CDC, 80% of strokes are preventable. Join us for a presentation hosted by our Seekonk Public Health Nurse - Lisa Valente, RN, CDOE and speakers from the Rhode Island Stroke Coordinators Network. Preregistration is required.
Backgammon
Mondays at 2pm
Players move their checkers around the board according to rolls of the dice and the first player to get all their checkers of is the winner. The fun comes from hitting and blocking your opponent’s checkers to impede their progress. This is a game of odds, calculation, patterns, and vision. Whether you are a seasoned Backgammon player or would like to learn how to play, please join us! Preregistration is required.
Blood Pressure & Glucose Clinic
Wed, June 18 9:00am - 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, June 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.
Oil Painting
Friday’s from 9:30am—11:30am
Join Seekonk Human Services every Friday for Oil Painting. From beginners to experienced painters, all skill levels are welcome. Contact Seekonk Human Services today to register. Instructor led on the 1st, 3rd and 4th Friday of the month. Cost: $3 for residents and $5 for non-residents due upon registration. Class members need to bring their own supplies, and a supply list is available.
Boston Bingo Cruise
Wednesday, August 13, 2025
Price: $105 Seekonk Residents $110 Non-Residents
Depart: 9am // Return: Approx 3:30pm
Enjoy the Boston skyline with a twohour cruise. Enjoy a delicious lunch. Full-
bar including cocktails, wine and beer for purchase. Onboard entertainment includes topside open-air lounge for games and relaxation. There will be three games of bingo with prizes. Also, Onboard DJ entertainment will be provided. Trip includes: deluxe motorcoach transportation, gratuity, 2-hour cruise and buffet luncheon. Payment due at registration.
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).
Basic Beginner ASL Sign Language Class
June 25, 2025 - August 27, 2025
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. 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 as soon as possible to sign up.
Overview of Legal Services
Monday, July 7th 10am - 12pm (15 minute appointment only)
Brandon Walecka, Esq., LL.M from Walecka Law will be providing office hours by appointment. The mini-consultations will center around elder law topics such as
VISION CARE
probate, questions regarding making a will (other power of attorney, health care proxy, etc.), trusts (irrevocable and revocable), Medicaid/MassHealth rules and eligibility, tax planning and special needs planning. These consults are focused on elder law and estate planning. Please call the office at 508-3368772. MA residents only.
Exercise Classes
Mondays
Movement & Meditation 10am
Strength & Cardio 1pm
Tuesdays
Drums Alive 9am
Wednesdays
Stability and Balance 8:45am
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
Parrot Head Show
The Music of Jimmy Buffett Performed by Bill Reidy Wed, July 9, 2025 at 1:00pm
Experience the fun of a Jimmy Buffett concert with Bill Reidy’s Parrot Head show, which includes all of Jimmy Buffett’s most popular songs, including Margaritaville, Changes in Latitudes, Come Monday and many more! The Parrot Head show includes Bill on acoustic guitar and vocals along with backing rhythm tracks. Preregistration required and opens June 16.
Hearing Clinic
Monday, July 14th 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Lauren Warburton from At Home Hearing Healthcare will be here for a Hearing Clinic. They specialize in detecting and resolving issues with hearing loss. Individuals will be advised regarding the next steps for pursuing proper treatment. They do accept MassHealth. Preregistration is required and opens June 16.
Fran Hart - The
“ME Decade” with Ice Cream Social Wed, July 16th at 1:00pm
American author Tom Wolfe coined the phrase The “ME Decade” to describe the changing values that took place during the 1970s. One of the major characteristics of this decade was the shift from concerns about society at-large and the general welfare of people as a whole, to a more selfcentered focus on an individual’s needs and desires. In this one-hour presentation, music
is used as a “lens” into the major events and fads of the decade. Some of the issues that marked the 70s included inflation, the Vietnam War, women’s rights, etc. There is no shortage of music that tells the story of the 70s. This multimedia presentation includes rare audio and video clips coupled with live music and singalongs. In addition, audience members who answer trivia questions correctly can win a prize. *This program is supported by a grant from the Seekonk Cultural Council. Registration is required and opens June 16. ($2.00 for ice cream social)
Elder Financial Exploitation and Protecting Against Money Scams
Wed, July 23th at 1:00pm
Join Santander Bank at the Seekonk Human Services for an informative session focused on helping older adults recognize and avoid financial scams. Santander team members will discuss common scams targeting seniors. This includes phone, e-mail, bank scams and share practical tips to stay safe. Empower yourself with knowledge and learn how to protect your finances and personal information. Preregistration required and opens June 16.
Presentation on Depression
Monday, July 28th at 2:00pm
Nearly 1 in 5 American adults will have a diagnosable mental health condition in any given year, and 46 percent of Americans will meet the criteria for a diagnosable mental health condition sometime in their life. While certain factors increase the risk of developing depression, it can affect anyone, at any age, and of any race or ethnic group. Join us on Monday July 28th from 2:00pm-3:00pm for a presentation on Depression with our Public Health Nurse Lisa Valente, RN, CDOE. Preregistration required and opens June 16.
3rd Annual Men’s Barbecue
Wed, July 30th at 12:00 noon
Join us for our barbecue party honoring Seekonk men age 60 and older. More details to follow. Registration Opens June 16 and ends July 21
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 June menu is available at our office and on our Facebook page.
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, pleae 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 508-336-8772 *30 Day Rental
Games
Play an old favorite or learn something new!
• Canasta - Mondays at 11am. A card game of the Rummy family
• Backgammon - Mondays at 2pm.
• Hi-Low Jack (Pitch) - Tuesdays & Thursdays at 1pm. Win the game by having the highest card played in the trump suit
• Mahjong - Wednesdays at 1pm. Mahjong is a game of skill and chance that originated in China
• Cribbage - Thursdays at 11am. The first person to peg 121 points and get to the end of the board is the winner
• BINGO - Thursdays 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, Tuesday, Thursday 8:30am - 4:30pm, Wednesday 8:30am - 5:30pm and Friday 8:30am12:00pm. Come and enjoy the activities and companionship at your center. 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.
Rehoboth Anawan Lions Upcoming Fundraisers
Attracting Hummingbirds
Sunday, June 22nd at 4pm
The Rehoboth Anawan Lions are hosting a fundraiser at Araujo’s Farms at 1522 Williams St, Dighton, on Sunday, June 22nd at 4pm. We will be making a Hummingbird Planter; specifically, the plants and flowers to attract Hummingbirds; with tea and cookies to enjoy as you plant. The cost is $50.00. There will also be a 50/50 raffle. There is a limit of 40 people, so get your tickets early. Call Kathy Amaral at 508-208-9748. Thank you, the Rehoboth Anawan Lions.
Gatlin Fundraiser
July 26th, 2025 5:00PM
As promised, the Rehoboth Anawan Lions are hosting another FABULOUS GATLIN fundraiser on July 26th, 2025 at 95 Cameron Way, Rehoboth, Ma. The festivities begin at 5 o’clock pm with a social hour. The show starts a 6 o’clock pm. There will be hamburgers, hot dogs, beer and wine for purchase. There are NO coolers allowed. Please bring your own chairs. Tickets are $35.00 pp. For tickets contact Jeanne Noons at 508-824—0534 or 508-942-4903; or Elaine Ferreira at 401-474-4404. Don’t forget to put it on your calendars! We look forward to seeing you there!
Rehoboth Garden Club News
On behalf of the Rehoboth Garden Club, I would like to thank everyone who helped make our May 3, 2025 Plant Sale Fundraiser so successful. We send our sincere appreciation to:
• Our Rehoboth Selectman for their ongoing support and guidance.
• The Agricultural Commission for their sponsorship.
• Buildings and Maintenance Supervisor Mike Viveiros and his crew for preparing the pavilion and Arcade building for our use.
• Deputy Police Chief Brian Ramos and his officers for protecting our plants and equipment from theft or vandalism.
• Adam Latham and Skyler Hall at Bristol County Agricultural High School for allowing us to consign Aggie grown plants. Sales of these plants benefit both the school and our club.
• Val Sousa, owner of Sousa Family Farm on Agricultural Ave. Rehoboth, Barbara and David Frerich, owners of Frerichs Farm
in Warren, Rhode Island, and Marie Pray, owner of Oakdale Farms on Wheaton Ave. Rehoboth, for providing us with beautiful plants at deeply discounted prices. Please patronize these local family businesses!
• Our hard-working RGC members who grew plants from seed, dug up perennials from their gardens, and gave so much of their time and talents to our plant sale.
• Our many, many loyal customers from Rehoboth and our surrounding towns for all your purchases at our annual fundraiser. As always, your plant sale purchases will fund our scholarship, educational and civic programs. In December 2025 we will be awarding $5,000 in scholarships to deserving students!
With thanks,
Linda McHugh, Plant Sale Committee Chair
Storytelling with Pokanoket Sachem Tracey Dancing Star Brown
Join the Carpenter Museum for an hour of Pokanoket storytelling, Tuesday, June 24th, 2:30PM. Start your summer off right with friend of the Museum Sachem Tracy Dancing Star Brown as she tells sacred stories and shares about the Pokanoket People. Perfect timing between the last day of school and the start of summer camps! The event will be held at the Museum in the Rehoboth Village, 4 Locust Avenue. No registration necessary; this event is free and open to the public. All ages welcome!
About the Carpenter Museum:
The Carpenter Museum, named in honor of major benefactors Elsie Carpenter and her son E. Winsor Carpenter, is Rehoboth’s local history museum. Our mission is to collect, document, preserve, and share material culture related to the town’s history. We connect the Rehoboth community with these artifacts and with local history in general through our exhibits and programming. The Museum provides the wider community with research support, especially in the area of genealogy, and promotes learning about American history through direct experience with objects from the past.
The Hornbine One-Room Schoolhouse Museum Activities
We had a very enjoyable Tea Party in May and had a booth at the Carpenter Museum’s Strawberry Festival on June 1st. We’ve enjoyed having several classrooms visit the school from towns in the area this year. This is our 57th year of doing so. We have had many teachers over the years. This year, Richard Wheeler has joined the teaching staff.
We invite you to attend our OPEN HOUSES beginning Sunday, June 8th and every 2nd and 4th Sunday from 2 - 4 pm up to and including October 26th. We have some fun activities for young visitors which include a memory game and a scavenger hunt. Last year, we added some new displays including a “history of educational materials display” and a collage of Hornbine Facts and Pictures. This season, we have new “Hornbine Art” on display. Our new Hornbine Magnets will be available for sale.
Do you have pictures of any old Rehoboth Schools that you would like to share with us? Bring them with you on June 22nd. We
Danielle DiGiacomo
will have a scanner to make copies. Gilbert Stubbs will demonstrate how to cut the tips of feather quill pens at our July 20th OPEN HOUSE. We are planning a special Fall Event during the last Open House on October 26th.
Would you like to see more pictures of children enjoying their day at the school? Look for them on our Facebook Page, “Hornbine School Museum”. We have links to Hornbine School YOU TUBE VIDEOS and our website on our Facebook Page also.
The Hornbine one-room schoolhouse was built in the 1840s and is located at 146 Hornbine Road in Rehoboth, MA.
Rehoboth Lions Club News
On May 21,2025, The Rehoboth Lions Club Celebrated The Russell F. Latham Citizen’s Recognition Night Awards Banquet. The following Residents were honored at the event: Larry Darcey received the Joseph Deroche Outstanding Service Award, Both Abbie Oldmixon and Macy Frissell received The Outstanding Youth award, D-R School Superintendent William Runey received the Public Servant Award, Holly Lowell received the Russell F. Latham Educator of The Year Award, Edith B Wislocki was presented with the Senior Citizen of The Year Award, Arthur Pierce received the Environmental Stewardship Award, and Kelli Trexler received the Richard Noons Community Service Award. Each recipient received a plaque and a special citation from both the Massachusetts Senate and House of Representatives. All of the recipients have provided hours of service to our community and were highly deserving of this special recognition! The event was organized and hosted by Mike Salois and a small committee of Lions Club members, and it was held at the Hillside Country Club. The photo was taken by Steve Brasier.
Our 53rd annual Chet Munroe chicken barbecue was held on June 1st. Thank you to all those who purchased dinners and volunteered at this signature event. All of the proceeds go back to our community!
Stand by for details about our annual Cigar Night! This will be held in August.
Don’t forget our 36th annual Golf Tournament to be held Saturday, September 20th, 2025, at the Swansea Country Club! Save the Date and get three friends together $140 per golfer includes cart and buffet dinner! Sponsors are also needed. Please visit the Rehoboth Lions Club website at www.rehobothLions.org for information on this and all our upcoming events!
In addition, our Health and Welfare committee continues to provide free use of durable medical equipment for our neighbors in need. If you need a hospital bed, a manual or motorized wheelchair, walker, crutches, commode or any other piece of medical equipment, please contact Ray Olivier or Steve Brasier! You may also send an email to donnokes@yahoo.com.
Proud to be serving our community as president of the Rehoboth Lions Club.
Russell Lathum Citizen’s Recognition Night Awards Banquet
On May 21,2025 the Rehoboth Lions Club Celebrated the Russell Lathum Citizen’s Recognition Night Awards Banquet. The following Residents were honored at the Banquet: Larry Darcey Joseph Deroche Outstanding Service Award, Abbie Oldmixon Outstanding Youth, Macy Frissell Outstanding Youth, Bill Runey Public Servant Award, Holly Lowell Russell Latham Educator of The Year Award, Edith B Wislocki Senior Citizen of The Year Award, Arthur Pierce Environmental Stewardship Award, Kelli Trexler Richard Noons Community Service Award.
Thank you, Steve Brasier Rehoboth Lions Club
Don Nokes
Arthur Pierce
Kelli Trexler
Edith B Wislocki
Mr. Richard Wheeler, our newest teacher, with students from the Aitken School in Seekonk.
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
• Happy Hour! Sun, Mon, Tues, Wed 1/2 price Bar Menu 3-6:00PM
• 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
• 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
• June 6th, 2025 – Friday - 7:00-10:00 P.M. – Live Music performed by Wayne Russo Jr. Entertainment with Classic Rock Music – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Dancing & having a GREAT TIME! https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u
• June 7st, 2025 - Saturday - 7:00-10:00 P.M., Ghost Cat Rodeo presents Classical Rock & County Music - No Cover Charge! –Food Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back and enjoy https://www.facebook.com/ ghostcatrodeo/
• June 8th, 2025 – Sunday -7:30 -10:30 A.M. American Legion Monthly Breakfast, Second Sunday of every month $12.00 donation - All you can Eat!
Residential & Commercial Free Estimates • Insured
Available Mon-Sat
• June 14th, 2025 – Saturday – 7:00 -10-pm, Little Miss and the Boom Band - Modern Music – Vintage Style Acoustic with Brass! –– Drinks – Entertainment, Dancing so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! https://www.facebook.com/LittleMissAndTheBoomBand
• June 22nd, 2025 – Sunday -5:00 -7:00 P.M. CASH BINGO! American Legion Auxiliary, Third Sunday of every month $10.00 donation per 5 Games – Food – Drinks & having a GREAT TIME!
• June 20th, 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
• June 27th, 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!
• June 27th, 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!
***Please note these events are subjected to change – Call First***Last update May 25, 2025
Lionistic Year Comes to an End
As June approaches, the 2024-2025 Lionistic year will come to an end. For me, serving as the first-time President of the Seekonk Lions Club has been quite an experience, to say the least. I did not feel fully prepared for this position. Around the same time, I started a new and exciting job that involves daily trips to Stoughton, MA. I had just finished 16 years serving on the Board of Assessors and was looking forward to spending time enjoying the duties and joy brought by our newest grandchild.
I often wonder how I can follow in the footsteps of those who have led this club before me. I’ve always been a participant, not a leader, and I know there are challenges ahead. Our membership is aging, and with that come some limitations. We depend on fundraisers like clam boils, golf tournaments, and food and drink events— each of which requires support and dedication. The phrase I hear often is, “We used to get this many people, but now it’s just a few of us.” Losing four members this year has been tough, but it also reminds us of the importance of coming together and working toward a stronger future. With a little effort and teamwork, I’m confident we can turn things around and continue to serve our community.
Without getting into every detail, the first few months were tough, but they taught us valuable lessons. As a new leadership team, we had to learn how the club operates—when, why, and how we do things. My focus from the start has been on stability and growth. I am committed to keeping our current members engaged and motivated while finding new ways to strengthen and expand our club. We are truly fortunate to have incredible partnerships with the American Legion and Ledgemont Country Club, both of which provide us with a welcoming home to hold our meetings and share in the camaraderie. I am proud to say that I have taken the first step toward achieving my goals, and I am excited about the future.
The Massachusetts Lions District has ambitious goals: “Raise more money and find more members.” They make it sound straightforward, but the reality requires effort. Across the district, there are strong clubs, and Seekonk was once among them. I’d love to see us achieve even a quarter of that former success. It will take hard work, and progress won’t happen overnight. As I step into another year as club president, I am committed to setting new goals—providing dedicated leadership, keeping our members engaged and happy, and offering them a meaningful experience within a charitable organization. Together, I believe we can rebuild and grow our club to new heights
As you read this, I encourage you to take some time this summer to reflect on whether you’re ready to make a difference in your community through the Lions Clubs of Massachusetts—specifically, Seekonk. There’s no better time than now to join, and no better place to serve and create a positive impact. I look forward to welcoming you in the fall and working together to make a difference.
Paul Buckley
Events at the Seekonk American Legion Post 311
Thank you to everyone who attended our Spring Meat Raffles, Spring Psychic Fair and stopped by the Legion after the Memorial Day Parade and visited our Poppy Drive. Our next event will be a Chicken BBQ on August 16th, details will follow.
Music at the American Legion
Friday Night Bands – starts at 8 pm
• Rock A Blues – 6/13
• Red Bridge Band – 6/20
Hall Rental
• 150 person capacity. Contact Bob for information at 508-3369822.
New Members Are Welcome!
American Legion - If you have served at least one day of active military duty since December 7, 1941 and were honorably discharged or you are still serving active military duty honorably, you are eligible for membership with The American Legion
American Legion Auxiliary - Members are grandmothers, mothers, sisters, spouses (female/male), and direct /adopted female daughters or granddaughters of Veterans/members of The American Legion. A female Veteran can join the Auxiliary without being a member of the American Legion.
Sons of the American Legion – Members are male descendants, adopted sons and stepsons of Veterans/members of The American Legion.
For additional information call the Post at 508-336-9822.
351 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA 02771 Seekonkpost311.org
508-336-9822
A Helping Hand in Seekonk
The Lions Club of South Attleboro recently received a heartfelt request from a family on Newman Avenue in Seekonk. The family there has faced challenges with limited accessibility to their home. Moved by their situation, the Lions decided to step in and make a difference.
Within a few weeks, volunteers from both the South Attleboro and Seekonk Lions Clubs gathered at the family’s house. With determination and teamwork, they cleared the driveway, measured out a sturdy ramp, and assembled the sections leading to the family’s front door. All the materials were donated through the fundraising activities of the Lions Clubs.
By the end of the day, a safe, and accessible ramp now stood proudly at the front of the house. The family was overwhelmed with gratitude as they saw their home transformed and gained a new sense of freedom and independence.
Thanks to the combined effort of the Lions of South Attleboro and Seekonk, the family received more than just a ramp—they gained renewed hope and a reminder of the power of community kindness. Lions Clubs continue to serve.
Volunteers built an accessible ramp for a Seekonk family.
Food & Dining Guide
Upgrade Summer Lunches with Nutritious Twists on Grilled Cheese
If you’re aiming to upgrade your cheesy sandwich arsenal, consider these tips from www.HealthyFamilyProject.com.
• Cook low and slow over medium-low heat so the bread reaches a crisp golden while cheese melts to perfection.
Celebrate Graduations
Order Catering or Make a Reservation with us!
*DAILY SPECIALS *HOMEMADE DESSERTS
Hours: Sun-Thurs 11:30-8; Fri-Sat 11:30-9
431 Winthrop Street, Rte 44,Taunton MA • 508-823-8664
1666 Diamond Hill Rd, Cumberland RI • 401-305-3916
• Real butter or olive oil adds a level of crispiness and flavor.
• Experimenting with cheese can give sandwiches an extra boost. Cheddar is the classic option, but mozzarella, gouda and brie bring newfound flavor profiles.
Blackberry Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Prep: 5 minutes - Cook: 10 minutes - Servings: 2
Ingredients
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon stone-ground mustard
• 4 slices whole-grain bread
• 2 slices provolone cheese
• 10-12 blackberries, cut in half
Directions:
Heat medium skillet over low heat.
In small bowl, mix mayonnaise and mustard; spread on one side of each slice of bread.
Place bread mayo-side-down in skillet. Top with cheese and blackberries. Add second slice of bread mayo-side-up.
Cook 3-4 minutes per side, or until bread is toasted and cheese is melted. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Chicken and Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Prep: 5 min - Cook: 10 min - Servings: 4
Ingredients
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 8 slices whole-grain bread
• 8 ounces sliced rotisserie-style chicken breast
• 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 apple, thinly sliced
Directions
Heat large skillet over medium-low heat.
Lightly butter one side of each slice of bread. Place bread butterside-down in skillet. Top with chicken, cheese and apple slices. Top with slice of bread butter-side-up.
Cook 2-3 minutes, flip and cook 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted.
Remove from heat and cut in half. Repeat with remaining sandwiches.
Fresh Fish Hot Off the Grates
(Family Features) Whether you’re a seasoned grilling expert or new to backyard barbecuing, expanding your menu with seafood offers a fun, flavorful way to bring life to outdoor entertaining.
There’s a “right” way to cook fish. If you’re cooking fish with skin, cook the skin side down first as it’s more forgiving and durable than the inside. This gives the finished dish more stability and structure, lessening the chances of the fish falling apart.
Find more recipes and electric grilling advice at CurrentBackyard.com.
Grilled Whole Branzini with Fresh Herb Sauce
Recipe courtesy of chef Alton Brown on behalf of Current Backyard Prep time: 30 minutes - Cook time: 10 minutes - Serves: 4
To make fresh herb sauce: In small bowl, combine dill, parsley, chives, garlic, salt, red pepper flakes, lemon zest, lemon juice and olive oil; set aside.
Set both sides of grill to 650 F (high) and close lid.
To prepare branzini: Season fish inside and out with kosher salt. Fill cavity of each fish with lemon slices, dill sprigs and parsley sprigs then tie with kitchen twine to secure. Refrigerate until ready to grill.
Evenly coat skin of both fish with olive oil. Insert temperature probe into thickest part of flesh of each fish, parallel to dorsal fin, then place on grill with belly sides toward you. Close lid and cook 5 minutes.
Open lid and gently turn fish over with thin metal spatula or two forks. Close lid and cook 5 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 145 F.
Transfer fish to platter and remove twine. Serve fish topped with fresh herb sauce.
2. In an 8-inch skillet over medium heat, add oil and quinoa. Spread quinoa out into an even layer and cook for about four minutes without stirring, until a crisp crust starts to form.
3. Pour in whisked eggs and top with spinach and cheddar cheese.
4. Cover and cook for about three minutes without stirring, until egg is set and cheese is melted.
5. Fold in half and serve.
Time saver: Use frozen precooked quinoa, just thaw before using.
Variations: Mix things up by swapping spinach and cheddar for other types of veggies and cheese.
Blackberry Grilled Cheese
SCOUTING AROUND
Seekonk Scouts’ May Activities
Seekonk scouts started the month with a weekend camping trip to Buck Hill in Pascoag, RI. During the weekend trip, scouts worked on rank requirements such as meal planning, cooking, campsite selection, pitching tents, and building a cooking fire. The scouts found time to relax by fishing and playing games.
Throughout the month, scouts held a car wash to raise funds for summer camp and high-adventure trips. Additionally, the scouts finalized rank and merit badge requirements for rank advancement and will receive their earned rank and merit badges at the Troop’s June Court of Honor.
The scouts ended the month by honoring and replacing the American flags at the graves of Veterans at the town’s cemeteries and participating in the annual Seekonk Memorial Day Parade. The Troops would also like to thank Rainey Construction for supporting our scouts and driving our float.
Special congratulations to two adult scout leaders honored by the Narragansett Council this month. Michelle Danzer-Gries was presented with the Southeast District “Scouter of the Year” award for her dedicated service to multiple Scout Troops throughout the Southeast District, and Brian Rainey was awarded the “Golden Spark Plug” award for his dedication and support and for always going above and beyond to spark Scouting in Seekonk.
For more information about Scouts, contact troop1seekonkma@ gmail.com for boys or Troop9SeekonkMA@gmail.com for girls. Scouts are open to all boys and girls between the ages of 11 and 17.
SUPERVISED BY OWNER
Rehoboth Girl Scout Troop #507 News
Rehoboth Girl Scout Troop #507 toured the Rehoboth Police Department with K-9 Officer Aguiar and Edo. Thank you for your service to our community!
Protect Your Pets from Predatory Threats
Audrey (Rey) Lancellotta
In this month’s article, I will be talking about how to keep your chickens safe from foxes and minks. The best way to protect chickens is to keep them in a pen. Chickens that are away in a large fenced in space with a cover over top are much safer than ones without. There are some methods on how to have your chickens free range, however. Fake owls and other predators can be posted up around where the chickens will graze, and keep the real predators away from them. Chicken coops can be locked up using carabiners to prevent animals like raccoons with hands to open them. Coops should be checked for any small holes or gaps, even less than an inch of a gap a mink can crawl through. You will need at least two feet of hard cloth around 6 inches to 1 foot deep in the ground to prevent animals from digging in. Any type of animal can get in a regular gate enclosure, so making sure you have a secure pen is top priority when owning chickens. Now, it should be talked about the behavior of these animals.
Firstly, the red fox. Red foxes are the most common type of fox, and the largest. It is most common to hear them at night during the winter shrieking. Between April and July is when their kits are born, which means that around this time they will be looking for more food for their families. Foxes make their dens in the woods or in various buildings like under decks, sheds, or wood piles. Foxes are omnivores, which means that they will eat almost anything they can. If you have a garden that has berry bushes not fenced in, chances are they will take some berries from there as well as your beloved birds. When it comes to killing chickens, foxes are pretty neat hunters. Most evidence you will find is a small pile of feathers, as they take most of their prey to go. If they get into a fenced area, they could have jumped it, or created a small hole under the fence to get in. If a fox gets into an area with many chickens, they will often go into a frenzy and kill many of the chickens, and typically take one with them. They will bite off the heads of the birds and often bury the taken one nearby. The buried bird can be found by looking for loose soil and claw marks where the dirt was scratched up. They will often be accompanied by their classic fox smell, which is similar to a skunk or a ferret. Electric fences or chicken wire fences are the best to be against foxes.
Minks are very tricky animals. They are around the size of a house cat and are found near water like ponds, lakes, rivers, and other bodies of water. They are very fast and often eat small animals. They are semi-aquatic and have webbed paws that allow
them to capture frogs, clams, and fish. Minks are often very shy, but can be bold if hungry. They have a similar odor to a fox and a skunk that is very strong. They are notoriously known for biting the heads off of chickens and leaving the rest of the bodies. They also often kill much more than they can actually eat, and they can often be found placed neatly in a pile. The main focus of minks is to drink the blood of the animals. Minks will attack at any time of day, and will not hesitate to strike if they see an opportunity. Minks can sneak through a space as small as one diameter thick, and are excellent diggers.
That is all for this month’s article. I hope you can put this information about foxes and minks to good use, and protect your feathery friends! Stay tuned for the last article next month!
Girl Scouts of Southeastern New
Get Ready with Girl Scouts™ Program to Help Pre-K and Kindergarten Girls Prepare for the School Year Ahead
Girl Scouts of Southeastern New England is preparing incoming Daisies (rising kindergarteners and first graders in fall 2025) for the upcoming school year with the new, exclusive Get Ready with Girl Scouts™ program. The Get Ready with Girl Scouts™ program, open now until June 30, will help current pre-K and kindergarten girls who are new to Girl Scouting kick off their summer with fun and adventures while gaining new friendships. Girls will grow their confidence, use their imagination and build skills they can take into the next school year. Through this special program, girls will receive three skill-building activity books, shipped directly to them from June through August 2025, unlocking a world of possibilities.
These school-readiness activity books, available in English and Spanish, will help prepare girls for kindergarten and first grade through fun, character-building Girl Scout activities. The Get Ready with Girl Scouts™ program emphasizes important skills such as motor skills, communication, critical thinking, emotional regulation and more through imaginative play, puzzles, and teamwork activities.
By signing up for the Get Ready with Girl Scouts™ program, girls will receive a Girl Scout membership through September 30, 2026. As Girl Scouts, girls can choose from a variety of activities, surround themselves with supportive peers, and engage with mentoring adults.
For more information on the Get Ready with Girl Scouts™ program, visit girlscouts.org/getready. To learn more, join us, volunteer, reconnect, or donate, visit girlscouts.org and gssne.org.
England Introduces
Scouts with Officer Aguiar and Edo
People In The News
Sadie Leigh Pyron Memorial Day Helper
Sadie Leigh Pyron age 22 months, of Rehoboth, helps her Nana , Lesley Pyron, and Cathy Potter remember our Veterans at the Joseph Stillman Pierce Cemetery on Kelton Street with new flags on Memorial Day.
University News
SNHU Announces Spring 2025
President’s List
Manchester, NH - It is with great pleasure that Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) congratulates the following students on being named to the Spring 2025 President’s List. The spring term runs from January to May.
SEEKONK: Briana Pangborn, Jake Henriques, Kira Feliciano, Ty Wheeler, Christine Miller, Liam Bradbury
REHOBOTH: Audrey Tattrie, Courtney Olson
Elizabeth Brady Named to SNHU Dean’s List
Manchester, NH -- Elizabeth Brady of Seekonk has been named to Southern New Hampshire University’s Spring 2025 Dean’s List. The spring terms run from January to May.
Lasell University Spring 2025
Dean’s List
Newton, MA -- Malayna Bizier, a Lasell University student from Rehoboth, MA was named to the Dean’s List for their academic performance in the Spring 2025 semester.
Nicholas Calamar Achieves Spring 2025 Dean’s List at Belmont University
Nashville, TN -- Belmont University recently released the Dean’s List for the spring 2025 semester. Approximately 47% of the University’s 6,912 undergraduate students qualified for the spring 2025 Dean’s List, including Nicholas Calamar (Seekonk).
Bridgewater State Awards Degrees in Graduate Studies
Foxboro – Master’s degrees and certificates of advanced graduate study were awarded to 482 graduate students at Bridgewater State University’s 19th Graduate Commencement Convocation on Thursday, May 15 at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro MA.
Seekonk: Kelsey Bachand, Caroline J. Hindle, Jeffrey R. LePage, Erin E. O’Halloran
Rehoboth: Jamison M. Braz, Catherine A. Donnelly, Paul M. Landry, Jolie StreeterDuczkowski
Bridgewater Awards Undergraduate Degrees
Foxboro – Bridgewater State University’s 184th Spring Commencement Convocation ceremony was held on Friday, May 16 at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, MA. Bachelor’s degrees in the arts, sciences, business, and education were awarded to 1,887 graduates during the event.
Rehoboth: Jaden R. Deblois, Rebecca S. Howard, Andrea Letourneau, Emily Olivier, Danny Silvia
Seekonk: Madison M. Armell, Brittney N. Clinton, Thomas S. Duffy, Mya Lamonte, Jamie P. Majkut, Molly Morales, Sam R. Studley
Stonehill College Celebrates Class of 2025
Easton, MA -- 614 students processed at Stonehill College’s 74th Commencement on Sunday, May 18, 2025. The following were among those who marched:
REHOBOTH: Peter Anghinetti, Colin D’Ambrosio, Emily D’Ambrosio, Thomas D’Ambrosio, Hailey Enos
SEEKONK: Nathan Lagoa, Wesley Gallishaw, Robert Riccitelli
Cameron Garabian Earns University of NebraskaLincoln Degree
Lincoln, NE -- Cameron Garabian of Seekonk was among 3,591 graduates who received degrees from the University of
Nebraska-Lincoln during commencement exercises May 3, 17 and 18. Garabian earned a Master of Applied Science from the Office of Graduate Studies.
Malayna Bizier Named to Nathan Howard Graduates from College of the Holy Cross
Worcester, MA -- Nathan Howard of Rehoboth received a bachelor of arts degree Summa Cum Laude from College of the Holy Cross. Howard is among 733 bachelor of arts degree recipients Holy Cross celebrated at its 179th Commencement held in person on Friday, May 23 at the DCU Center in Worcester.
Spencer Romain Completes Intensive Capstone Research Project
Worcester, MA -- Spencer Romain, a member of the class of 2025 majoring in Architectural Engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), recently completed a senior thesis that is required of all graduating seniors as part of the university’s distinctive project-based educational experience. Spencer’s Major Qualifying Project (MQP), a research-driven, professional-level project that challenges students to solve the kinds of problems they would typically encounter in their professional discipline, was titled “Hopital Source de Vie”.
Local Residents Receive Degrees at Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Worcester, MA -- Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) celebrated its 2025 Commencement with a series of ceremonies honoring the achievements of graduates across all degree levels.
The following graduates earned BS degrees:
• Bella DeCilio from Rehoboth majored in Biochemistry
• Spencer Romain from Seekonk majored in Architectural Engineering
Corinne Braga Named to Regis College Dean’s List.
Weston, MA -- Regis announces Corinne Braga of Rehoboth met academic requirements to be named to the university’s spring 2025 Dean’s List. To earn a spot on the Dean’s List, students must earn a grade point average (GPA) of 3.5 or higher; first-year students must have a GPA of 3.25 or higher.
Retirement Distributions
Written by Lars Lambrecht, CFP, CLU, BFA, AMPA, CDFA, CLTC, CSLP, owner of Island Time Financial Services, Inc.
Transitioning into retirement can be exciting and daunting. Many retirees work with a professional financial advisor to navigate the complexities.
Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs). The IRS requires that you begin taking distributions from retirement plans at a certain age. This is known as your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) age. Not too long ago, you did not need to begin your RMD until age 70½. In 2019, Congress changed the RMD date to age 72. In the final hours of 2022, Congress changed the RMD age yet again as part of the SECURE 2.0 Act! If you were born in 1951 to 1958, your new RMD age is 73. If you were born in 1959 or later, your RMD age will be 75.
Your RMD is calculated each year based on the value of your account on December 31 and your life expectancy according to an IRS table. Your initial RMD is typically about 4-5% of the value of the account, and this increases a little bit every year. If you fail to take your RMD, there is a penalty tax between of 25% per year!!! So, it is important to pay attention to your RMDs. RMDs need to be calculated for ALL retirement accounts, such as IRAs, 401k plans, 403b plans, etc. Also, if you have multiple types of accounts, such as an IRA and 401k, you need to take a distribution from both of them. Roth IRAs do NOT have a required distribution, unless received as an inheritance.
I should also note, if you INHERITED a retirement plan, the RMD rules are entirely different. You are generally required to begin RMDs immediately, unless the plan is inherited by a spouse. The inherited RMD rules are too complex to explain in this article, so please speak with your tax and/or financial advisor.
Distributions from retirement plans are generally taxed as ordinary income (unless you made Roth contributions). Because of this, many people try to delay retirement distributions as long as
possible. For example, you may have money in non-retirement investment accounts or Roth IRAs that you can spend down during initial years of retirement.
Tax Strategies. It may seem counterintuitive to pay taxes sooner than you are required, but it may make sense to take some distributions from your retirement plan sooner than your RMD age. The IRS has a graduated income tax schedule, meaning that as your income increases, your tax rate on income goes up. The Federal tax rate starts at 10% and eventually increases to 37%. Depending on the size of your retirement accounts, your tax rate may be higher if you wait until your RMD age. For example, you may be able to pull money from your retirement plan and have it taxed at 12% or 22%, but this may go up to 24% or 32% later in retirement. Paying taxes today at 12%, may be better than deferring taxes and paying at a rate of 24%, for example.
If you are over the age of 70½, it is possible to donate money from your retirement plan directly to charities without paying taxes. This is called a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) , and is a great strategy if you regularly donate to charities. You don’t have to pay taxes on the distribution and your charities directly benefit!
Roth Conversions. If you want to take advantage of lower tax rates but don’t need money for your expenses, you can also consider a Roth Conversion. When you do this, you convert a taxable retirement account into a Roth IRA, which grows tax free! Roth IRAs do NOT have RMDs, so the money can grow tax-free until your death.
Lars Lambrecht, Rehoboth resident and Certified Financial Planner, is available to answer questions or meet for a consultation. 617-947-6428
Lars Lambrecht
Events & Activities
Dighton Historical Society Annual Strawberry Festival
Saturday, June 7th, from 11 AM to 3 PM
The Dighton Historical Society is hosting its 8th Annual Strawberry Festival at the Dighton Town Hall Grounds. There will be strawberry shortcakes for sale, vendors will be selling their wares, a face painter and balloon twister for the kids, live music, raffles and Dighton memorabilia and hot dog lunches being sold by the Dighton Lions. This event celebrates the history of strawberry growing in Dighton and is always a fun filled day.
We’ll see you there.
This program is sponsored in part by a grant from the Dighton Cultural Council, a local agency which is partially supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.
Narragansett Bay Symphony Community Orchestra
Join the Narragansett Bay Symphony Community Orchestra, Rhode Island’s premier community orchestra, and interim music director John Eells as we present our Season Finale Concert on Sunday, June 8, 2025 at 3:00 pm in the auditorium of East Providence High School, 2000 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence, RI.
The concert opens with the performance of Johannes Brahms’ powerful Tragic Overture, Op. 81, followed by William Grant Stills’ In Memoriam which was written in 1930 in honor of the Black Soldiers who fought in the Civil War, but was not performed until 1943. The first half of the concert concludes with Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s exciting Capriccio Espagnol, Op. 34, an orchestral suite based on Spanish folk melodies. The second half of the concert begins with Louise Farrenc’s romantic Overture No. 1 in e minor, Op. 23. The concert closes with a performance of Igor Stravinsky’s breathtaking Firebird Suite (1919) from the Firebird Ballet.
Visit www.nabsco.org for more information about next year’s concert season. Admission is ‘Pay what you think is fair’ at the door or at www.nabsco.org. Please also help support the RI Community Food Bank by bringing a non-perishable food item. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit NaBSCO’s website, www.nabsco. org, email team@nabsco.org, or call 401-274-4578.
Community Fish Sampling and Identification (Electrofishing) Event
Thursday, June 12, from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM
The Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council (WRWC) invites the public to a special Community Fish Sampling and Identification (Electrofishing) event at Whipple Field, Soban St, Smithfield, RI 02917.
This hands-on citizen science experience lets participants suit up and wade into the Woonasquatucket River to help track and monitor its fish populations. Using electrofishing — a widely used, safe method that temporarily stuns fish — WRWC staff will capture, identify, measure, and catalog fish before returning them unharmed to the river. By collecting this data, WRWC gains important insights into the health of the river, compares the impact of water quality in different sections, and strengthens its mission to protect and restore this vital urban wildlife corridor.
A $20–$40 suggested donation (or pay what you can) supports WRWC’s work. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Register now and discover the hidden aquatic life of the Woony! For details and registration, visit: wrwc. org/events
ChurCh News & eveNts
Rehoboth Congregational Church News
Name Your Price Yard Sale!
Saturday, June 21st 9AM-2PM | Great finds at a great price (your price)!
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/ worshiponline
Weekly Bible Study | Thursdays | 10AM
Join us for weekly Bible Study, led by Pastor Andrew Simon. Bible Study takes place every Thursday at 10am in Fellowship Hall! All are welcome!
Questions About Worship, Church School or Other Programs & Events?
Contact our Administrative Director Samantha at office@ rehobothcongregational.org or 508-252-4545 (Tuesday-Thursday 9AM-1PM).
Seekonk Congregational Church News 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 with Interim Minister Rev Dr Ruth Shaver. All services begin at 9:30 and all are welcome. Licensed infant/preschool day care is available every week. Check us out, you will be happy you did. We will continue to record our services and they are available the following day at Seekonk Congregational Church YouTube. Summer Church School classes are also at 9:30 each Sunday with children starting in church on the 1st Sunday of each month.
Celebrate the Spirit of Pentecost
The Birth of the Church Sunday, June 8th at 9:30AM Children’s Sunday ~ “Imagine a Garden with Seeds of Faith”
Wear Red - Celebrate God’s SpiritTeacher and High School Senior Recognitions, Kiddie Goodie Bags, Special Coffee Hour
New Member Seminar
Sunday, June 15, 2025 following Worship at 11:15AM
All who wish to join as members of the Seekonk Congregational Church, UCC or want to know more about this faith community are welcome to attend. Led by Rev. Dr. Ruth Shaver, Interim Minister
Continued on next page...
Hey Nineteen
Hey Nineteen
Steely Dan Tribute Band
Steely Dan Tribute Band
Friday, July18th
Friday, July18th
8 pm - 10:30 pm
8 pm - 10:30 pm
Hey Nineteen has been recognized as the most authentic sounding Steely Dan tribute worldwide.
Hey Nineteen has been recognized as the most authentic sounding Steely Dan tribute band worldwide.
Hey Nineteen has been recognized as the most authentic sounding Steely Dan tribute worldwide.
Tickets $50 online or $55 at door.
Tickets $50 online or $55 at door.
Doors open at 6:30 for food and beverages for purchase.
Doors open at 6:30 for food and beverages for purchase.
LIVE CONCERT
“FIRE UP” Creative ARTS CAMP 2025
Focusing on 4 fiery Bible Stories! For 3rd through 10th graders ~ Music & Art Sessions ~
Including: Fire Pit Snacks, Fire Slime Toss, Glow Stick Treasure Hunt, Volcano Bursts, Sparkler Celebrations, Frying Pan Wax Creations and More Fiery Themed Surprises!
• Lead Instructors: Kristin Putney & Rev. Dr. Ruth Shaver
• Fee $160 ~ Sibling Discount: $50 off ($110)
• Extended Hours: 8:30-10:00 AM $15 per day and 3:30-5PM $15 per day
• Registration Required by June 9
Contact Kristin 774-991-1555 or Maria at the Church Office
508-336-9355
All children are welcome to attend
REHOBOTH BAPTIST CHURCH
• Sunday School - 9:00am
• The Lord’s Service - 10:30am
• Prayer Meeting - 6:00pm
WEDNESDAYS
Bible Study - 7:00pm
Rehoboth Baptist Church is located on Route 118, two miles south of the Route 44 intersection. Visit our website for current information about our services or to contact the pastor or an elder.
• Fun Science and Concrete Evidence of God’s Creativity!
• Moonbounce, Snacks & Games Too!
• FEE $30 for 5 mornings
• Registration Required by July 28
Contact Kristin 774-991-1555 or Maria at the Church Office 508-336-9355
On-Going Mission Concerns & Needs
• WE HAVE FOOD PANTRY FOR ANYONE YOU KNOW WHO HAVE FINANCIAL CHALLENGES: granola/cereal bars, cereal, food in pouches that doesn’t need heating, pasta, spaghetti sauce, rice, beans, tuna, peanut butter, all types of Non Perishable food. Donations are welcome at any time
• 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.
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.
Community Covenant Church News
Are you looking for help and hope? Every week at Community Covenant Church, we strive to bring that to everyone who walks through our door through the good news of the gospel of Jesus. Through relevant preaching and modern worship that engages all ages from birth to empty nesters. For more information on our programs and current sermon series, check out www.communitycovenant.church. We hope to see you in person or online this Sunday at 10 am.
Newman Congregational Church, UCC Announces Community Yard Sale
Saturday, June 28 9 am – 2 pm
Sellers wanted! Tables are limited!
$30 donation for the rental of an 8’ table & 2 chairs, proceeds from your table is 100% yours! This is an indoor venue, no rain date is needed. The event will be well publicized, in a high-traffic area!
Sellers: Set up after 7:30 am, and you are responsible for the removal of your unsold items.
There is a donation collection box in the Newman parking lot if you have any remaining clothing or linens you’d like to discard.
Newman Congregational Church, United Church of Christ is located at 100 Newman Avenue, Rumford, RI 02916. For information or to reserve a table, contact the Church Office at 401-434-4742 X10. Newman UCC is an Open and Affirming congregation of the United Church of Christ and extends this invitation to one and all, living out the example of Jesus’ extravagant welcome.
Seekonk Public Library
Free Technology Series: Getting Started with SmartPhones and Tablets
Do you want help with the basics of using your smartphone or tablet? Bring them to our Library Tech Class in the library’s Large Meeting Room. In each 90-minute session of this beginner’s series we will provide review the most common questions when getting started that should have been in a manual! You must bring your own device; make sure the device is fully charged. Space is limited; registration is required. Register with your SIALS library card in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events.
• Library Tech Class: Getting Started with Android Phone and Tablets Tuesday, June 17 from 2-3:30 PM. This program is for Android phone and tablets ONLY
• Library Tech Class: Getting Started with Apple iPhone and iPad Tuesday, July 15 from 2-3:30 PM. This program is for Apple iPhone and iPads ONLY
For more information or for help with registration, call Adult Services at 508-336-8230 x56130 or email library@seekonkpl.org.
Level Up at Your Library This Summer Adults Reading Challenge
Online registration begins June 1
Ready to power up your summer? Level Up at Your Library, Seekonk Public Library’s all-ages summer reading program, kicks off on Wednesday, June 18 from 1–3 PM. Register at seekonkpl. org/events to see the Flying High Dogs at 1 PM—space is limited!
This year’s theme invites adults to take it “up,” with outdoor adventures, library skills, and themed book suggestions. Whether you’re reading for fun, learning something new, or chasing a summer goal, this challenge is for you.
• Choose your own adventure:
• Track books for a personal goal
• Log your reading minutes for our community goal
• Read, write a review and try new library services to complete the challenge
• Get started your way:
• Use the Beanstack app or visit seekonkpl.beanstack.org
• Prefer offline? Paper logs available at the Research Help Desk starting June 18
• Participated in previous years? Use your existing Beanstack login
• The more you level up, the more chances to win! Adults who stay active in the challenge will be entered in ongoing prize drawings. Online registration opens June 1. Level up your reading. Level up your summer. Level Up at Your Library!
For more information, email library@seekonkpl.org or call the Adult Service Librarians at 508-336-8230.
Hawks 101 Presentation
Friday, Jun 20 at 10 AM
Hawks, our avian hunters, have unique physiology and skills to thrive in the various habitats of Massachusetts. Come to Seekonk Public Library on Friday, June 20 at 10 AM for Look Up: All About Hawks to learn about these amazing birds of prey and find out how you can support them. For this outdoor, walking program participants will meet at the Seekonk Meadows sign at the top of the library parking lot; in case of poor outdoor conditions we will meet inside the library’s Large Meeting Room. Come and learn from
Mass Audubon’s Oak Knoll Wildlife Sanctuary educators on how to identify and appreciate hawks as we look up into the sky and hopefully see one in the wild! Note: birds WILL NOT be brought in for this program. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Seekonk Public Library. Space is limited; register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events.
For help registering or for more information about this and other Level Up summer programs, call the Adult Services department at (508) 336-8230 or email library@seekonkpl.org.
Friends of the Seekonk Public Library
Thank you to all who were able to come to our big half price book sale in May. Your purchases of books, puzzles, raffle tickets, and candy bars allow us to support the library with programs and materials for all ages.
Due to the success of our recent sales, we are in particular need of adult softcover fiction books. We greatly appreciate all the donations brought to the lobby. Without them, there could be no book sales. We have daily sales Monday through Saturday. If there isn’t a volunteer in the lobby, you can leave your donations on or near the chairs next to the cart in the lobby.
Youth Services
Level Up at Your Library!
June 18 - August 8
Summer Reading Challenge is on! Starting June 18, register your child for Level Up at Your Library, this year’s summer reading challenge and keep track of how much time is spent reading. There are no titles to record, or specific books to read - simply log reading time. Children can read any combination of books, magazines, graphic novels, eBooks, or audio books. What’s the challenge? The challenge is to either read 20 minutes a day or set a personalized reading goal. Summer learning loss can happen when children are not actively reading during the summer months. Studies have shown that children who don’t read over the summer can lose 1-3 months of reading proficiency. Summer reading programs are endorsed by principals, teachers, and educators to help combat summer learning loss. Read anything and everything because it all counts toward the challenge. Register at seekonkpl.beanstack.org
Summer Reading Challenge Kick-off
Wednesday, June 18 1:00 PM
All Ages. Join the Flying High Dogs for a Summer Reading Kickoff Party like no other!
Outside in The Seekonk Meadows we’ll witness gravity-defying acts and puptastic feats of frisbee fun to celebrate our 2025 Summer Reading Challenge: LEVEL UP!
Level Up your reading AND your summer at the library! Stop by to register for the challenge, to enjoy the flying high show, enjoy a free Kona Ice, and receive your registration goodie bags (all while supplies last) at the kickoff party!
Be sure to register in case we have to move the event inside (where space is limited) in the case of inclement weather. If the weather is lovely, all are welcome!
June Kid Librarian of the Month
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 be in charge of creating 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 the last week of the month,and their display will be showcased for the rest of the following month. If chosen, you will be contacted by email or phone. All applications will remain on file.
Getting Started Homeschooling
Wednesday, June 4 5:30 - 6:30 PM
All ages welcome. Whether you are actively homeschooling or are just looking into it, you are invited to join Advocates for Home Education in Massachusetts as they discuss Getting Started Homeschooling in Massachusetts. This workshop will cover Massachusetts homeschool guidelines, writing your education plan, choosing a form of evaluation, dealing with local homeschooling policies and forms, a quick-start guide to picking a curriculum, and more. There will be a discussion time to follow with opportunities to get individual questions answered. Register.
Science Heroes: Adventure of the Missing Color!
Saturday, June 21
10:00-11:00 AM Ages 5-11 Join Science Heroes on their mission to turn science into an adventure and celebrate the scientists who color our world with art! Talewise gets kids excited about science through their
performance styles and highly visual experiments. They believe science nurtures children’s natural curiosity and wonder about the world. Their programs get the entire audience involved in the scientific process of discovery and exploration, showing children that science is something everyone can do! Children will approach S.T.E.M. subjects with more confidence, setting them on a journey to become lifelong learners. Register.
Backyard Band Jams - in the Meadows!
Tuesday, June 24 1:30-2:30 PM
Ages 0-6 and families. Join Miss Rhonda of Backyard Band Jams and Miss Jocelyn of your local Coordinated Family and Community Engagement (CFCE) Program for singing, dancing, playing with musical instruments, and more! This is a parent-child bonding and musical event for families with children up to six years of age. Please bring a picnic blanket, yoga mat, or beach towel for sitting on the grass in the Meadows. Remember to bring your sunscreen, bug spray, hats, and bottled water too! In case of inclement weather, we will be jamming indoors in the community room. Register. This program is funded by Coordinated Family and Community Engagement (CFCE).
Oak Knoll MA Audubon Backyard Birds
Wednesday, June 25 10:00 AM
Ages 5+. Join the experts at Oak Knoll/MA Audubon to learn all about backyard birds! Practice identifying commonly found birds and learn more about their local habitats. Register. “This program is funded by The Seekonk Cultural Council, a local agency funded by Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.”
Baby Storytime: Babies, Books, and Belly Time
Tuesday, July 1, 22 2:00 PM
Ages 0-18 months. Join Ms Corey for baby storytime designed for children 0 - 18 months old. Bring a small baby blanket for the floor and enjoy a book followed by music, fingerplays & movement. Afterward, enjoy free time for belly time. It is an important way to help babies strengthen their neck and shoulder muscles, and improve motor skills. Babies will be free to crawl through a tunnel, play with toys, read a board book, and enjoy some bubbles with you. No registration is required. Please bring your SAILS Library card so your child may take storytime books home. Seekonk Library storytimes focus on talking, singing, reading, writing, and playing- important principles for your child’s reading readiness.
Intro to Ballet for Littles
Monday, July 7 10:00 - 11:00 AM
Ages 3-5. Learn Ballet basics with dancers Ms Alison and Ms Amelia. There will be a simple warm up, then introductory Ballet dance moves will be taught and end with a short performance. Ms Alison Paul and Ms Amelia Paul have been dancing since age 4. Ms Amelia is a Rhode Island College Dance Company dancer and Ms Alison is a Roger Williams University Dance Club dancer. Both have been assistant teachers of Ballet, Jazz, and Tap and are dance choreographers. Register.
Teen Services Summer Reading Program for Teens
Tweens and Teens in rising grades 6 and up, it’s time to register for Seekonk Public Library’s Summer Reading Challenge! Log into the free Beanstack app to sign up for the “Level Up!” challenge and collect virtual badges for logging your reading, writing reviews, and participating in activities. Each badge earns one or more raffle tickets that you can enter into weekly online drawings as well as a variety of grand prize drawings. You’ll also want to come visit the library in-person for the teen programs listed below, as well as to participate in a drop-in scavenger hunt. Finally, get in the spirit of this summer’s game theme by collecting, trading, and playing one of the oldest games in history—marbles! When you sign up for summer reading, you’ll choose a “shooter” and a drawstring pouch
to get started, and every visit to the library gives you the chance to pick out a unique marble to add to your collection!
Harry Potter Trivial Pursuit
Thursday, June 26, 2 PM
Do you find yourself arguing that hippogriffs are cooler than dragons? Do you correct your friends when they mistake the Triwizard Tournament for the Quidditch Cup? Are you pretty sure you could have discovered the gillyweed solution if only you’d had the right book? If any of this sounds like more than Gobbledegook (Griphook’s native language, of course) to you, then come to Seekonk Public Library on Thursday, June 26 at 2:00 PM for the 3rd Annual Harry Potter Trivial Pursuit event for tweens and teens! We’ll split up into four teams to play the official Trivial Pursuit: World of Harry Potter Ultimate Edition and test our knowledge of all eight movies (sorry, it’s NOT based on the books!). Snacks will be provided. For (rising) grades 6 through 12.
This 2-hour program is free and open to the public; please register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events.
For more information, call Adult Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email teens@seekonkpl.org.
More Opportunities to “Level Up” This Summer!
Register using our online Events Calendar
• July 10: Dungeons & Dragons One-Shot for Tweens & Teens
• July 17: Micro:bit Coding for Tweens & Teens
• July 24: Dungeons & Dragons One-Shot for Tweens & Teens
• July 31: A Magic: The Gathering…Gathering for Tweens & Teens
• August 7: Crafternoon for Tweens & Teens
• August 14: Level Up! End of Summer Party for Tweens & Teens
It’s time for the Blanding’s book sale just for children. It will be held during these library hours: Tues. June 10 from 11:30 (after Tot Time) to 6:30, Wed. June 11 from 11 am to 7:30, Thurs. June 12 from 11:30 (after Story Hour) to 7:30, and Friday June 13 from 10 to 3:30, or until books are gone. Books are $4.00/bag. Bring your own bags or pick up one at the library. Note that any adults at the sale must be accompanied by a child. Sponsored by The Friends of the Blanding Library.
Children’s Summer Reading Program
This year’s MA Summer Reading theme is “Level Up at Your Library”, and the Blanding Library will be featuring Reading Challenges throughout the summer for patrons of all ages. We’ll be offering reading logs and brag tags for the young, a Children’s Book Challenge for elementary students, a Statewide Choice Book Awards for middle school students, as well as one for teens, to choose to select titles and vote on their favorite in the fall.
Summer Reading for Adults
This summer the Blanding will also offer a reading challenge for adults (over age 18). See how many books you can read. Stop in to register and pick up your list of easy ways to earn tickets to enter raffles. Raffle drawings for prizes will be July 15 and August 15. This library program is sponsored by The Friends of the Blanding Library.
Knit Night at the Library June 12
Looking to meet new friends and share your love of knitting? Bring your current project or start something new, on Thurs. June 12 from 6:30 to 7:30. Whether you knit or crochet, are new or experienced, or have just been meaning to pick up those needles again, there is a seat for you. Let’s build a warm and welcoming space for creativity, conversation, and community, one stitch at a time. This one-time meeting is also to gage interested and plan for the fall.
Coming Up Soon
• Family Yoga: Family yoga instructor Rebecca Mele will lead the little ones along with their adults June 23 at 10:30. Program includes stories and art. Bring a mat and water bottle.
• Flying High Dogs will be a fun program for anyone who enjoys watching dogs play frisbee. Mike Piazza and his amazing frisbeecatching dogs will present an interactive family-oriented program on July 15 at 1. This free 40-minute demonstration will be held on the back lawn of Goff Hall, behind the library. You can bring blankets to sit on but please leave your own pets at home.
• Storytime Quintet presents Peter and the Wolf on July 22 at 11 am. Five women who are professional musicians will narrate the story and play woodwinds. All ages are welcome. This program is sponsored by a generous donation from Oak Hill Engineering, Rehoboth.
Story Hours & More
• Tot Time with Miss Joyce is on Tuesdays at 10:30. Children under age 4 and their caregivers are invited to a fun interactive program of moment, music, games and more. Older siblings are welcome.
• Story Time with Miss Cathy is on Thursdays at 10:30. Join us for a story or two and a simple craft to make and take home. For children ages 3 and up. Older siblings welcome.
• LEGOS at the library will next be held on Saturday June 14 and July 12. Drop in and make something special, any time from 11 to 2.
You can find more information and news about programs and events on 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 library continues to accept used books in good condition for the Friends of the library’s annual sale in October. Please drop off donations at the front desk.
Ongoing events: the Blanding hosts two separate book groups, one on the first Monday of the month at 7pm and the other at 3pm on the second Tuesday. Check with the library for more information. Hank Coleman continues the history discussion group on Wed. at 11am. Contact hjcoleman@comcast.net for more information.
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, including Thursday June 19 for Juneteenth and Friday July 4 for Independence Day. Library phone: 508-252-4236.
SCHOOL NEWS
DR Valedictorian and Salutatorian Named
By Joe Siegel
Penny Braga is the Valedictorian and Nicholas DeCilio is the Salutatorian for Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School’s Class of 2025.
“Both students have demonstrated exceptional academic achievements, leadership, and dedication to their school and our #WeAreDR community,” Principal Dustin Demers said Wednesday.
Valedictorian Penny Braga
Braga has distinguished herself as a scholar, athlete, and leader throughout her high school career. A member of student government for all four years, Penny currently serves as the Senior Class Secretary. She is also the Treasurer of the National Honor Society, where she upholds the values of scholarship, leadership, and service.
In athletics, Penny has been a dedicated member of the DR field hockey team, serving as a team captain in her senior year. Her leadership and sportsmanship earned her the South Coast Conference Sportsmanship Award.
Braga has completed nine Advanced Placement (AP) courses across multiple disciplines. Her academic excellence has been recognized with the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents’ Award for Academic Excellence and the Harvard Book Award.
In addition, Braga is actively involved in community service, volunteering at the Rehoboth Food Pantry and the Blanding Library. This fall, she will attend college in California to study biochemistry, with plans to pursue a career in medicine.
“We could not be prouder of Penny and all of her accomplishments while here at DRRHS,” said Demers. “There is no doubt that she will use all she has learned here to positively shape the world through her future endeavors. Penny is a true example of the caliber of student our high standards at DRRHS can create.”
Salutatorian Nicholas DeCilio
DeCilio has excelled both in and out of the classroom during his time at DRRHS. With a strong commitment to academics, he has completed eight AP courses and has been recognized with the AP Scholar Award, the Brown Book Award, and the National School Development Council’s Award for Academic Growth and Student Leadership in Learning.
“Nicholas is a student leader who has been empowered to make a difference at DRRHS through his work ethic, compassion, and love of learning,” said Principal Demers.
DeCilio is a member of the DR Winter and Spring Track and Field teams, where he leads as captain in sprinting and throwing. He is also actively involved in the math team and Peer Leaders group, helping to organize various school events.
DeCilio has contributed over 100 hours of community service, volunteering at the Rehoboth Food Pantry and the East Providence Boys and Girls Club youth basketball league.
This fall, DeCilio will attend Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), where he plans to major in computer science and data analytics.
Penny Braga
Nicholas DeCilio
Seekonk High School’s Top Graduates
By Joe Siegel
When Seekonk High School’s Class of 2025 accepts their diplomas on Friday, Valedictorian Abigail Visnick and Salutatorian Delainey Pari will be leading the way.
Valedictorian Abigail Visnick
Abigail Visnick is Class President and is heavily involved in the school community. “Abigail maintains a rigorous course load, has demonstrated a strong aptitude for challenging coursework, and has excelled in a wide range of Advanced Placement courses,” said Principal William Whalen. “She is passionate about a future in computer science and remains determined to achieve her academic and career aspirations. Abigail is known for her inclusive nature,
she is authentic, caring, and kind-hearted. Her most recent initiative, the Girl Up Club, focuses on creating a welcoming and supportive environment for young women within the high school community.”
In addition, Visnick is an Executive Board member for National Honor Society, a member of the Spanish Honor Society, a Captain of the Field Hockey Team, and a participant in the Unified Program.
Salutatorian Delainey Pari
Whalen said Delainey Pari “has consistently demonstrated exceptional academic achievement throughout her time” at the high school.
Pari has maintained highest honors in every quarter and is a part of the National Honor Society. In addition to being a member of the Spanish, Science, and Key Clubs. Earlier in her high school career, she was a competitive dancer and member of the volleyball, lacrosse, and outdoor track teams.
“What is most striking about Delainey is how focused she is on her goal of becoming a fertility geneticist,” Whalen added. “Over the last two years she has taken enrichment courses in genetics through Bridgewater State, University of Rochester, and Rice University. As a junior, she was honored with the University of Rochester’s Science Book Award and the Congress of Future Medical Leaders Award of Excellence.”
Seekonk High Grads Urged to Chase New Dreams
By Joe Siegel
Under partly cloudy skies, Seekonk High School’s 2025 graduating class was greeted with cheers as they trooped onto the athletic field on May 30 to the strains of “Pomp and Circumstance.”
Principal William Whalen told the 150 graduates to “chase new dreams” and “be open to growth.” Whalen noted how the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in every aspect of life was “changing how we learn, how to think.” Whalen also paid tribute to the high school’s long-time athletic director, John Moran, who passed away in April. “All good things come to those who persevere,” Whalen noted.
Valedictorian Abigail Visnick compared her classmates’ years at the high school to life on “Sesame Street.” “These halls have been our street,” Visnick explained. “We will sweep the clouds away.”
Salutatorian Delainey Pari said that although their high school years were over, “there’s so much more to love, learn, and experience.”
Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell told the graduates they are free to follow their own destinies. “Remember the community you have,” Kidwell said. “Look out for each other, your friends, and your community.”
Hazel Harris and Hannah Tadros shared reflections of their time at Seekonk High School.
Class advisors Peter Hoogerzeil and Michael Petrucci offered their congratulations to the graduates.
The National Anthem was performed by Madison Garvey and Riley McKenna.
The Seekonk High School Band, under the direction of Daniel Snizek, provided musical accompaniment for the ceremony.
Assistant Principal Praised
By Joe Siegel
Richard Dineen, the new Assistant Principal at DightonRehoboth Regional High School, was praised by Principal Dustin Demers at Tuesday’s school committee meeting. “He’s been a flawless fit for our high school,” Demers said, noting Dineen “treats our students every day with respect and puts relationships first. He’s a man of the utmost integrity. He’s been an unbelievable resource for myself, (Assistant Principal)Arnold Chamanlal, and Michael Strojny (CTE Director).”
The last few months have been a time of transition for the high school. Dr. Jacqueline Ash resigned from her position as Principal last January. Demers, who had served as an Assistant Principal, was named as Ash’s replacement. Dineen has served as an interim Assistant Principal.
Superintendent Bill Runey said Dineen has quickly made “a very positive impact” during his time at D-R. “When I look at this situation, it was the right time for everybody,” Dineen said. “I’m very blessed to be here. I was welcomed into the community. We’re going to do some great things at the high school and I’m looking forward to it.”
Seekonk
Middle School Students, Runey Honored by Lions
By Joe Siegel
Two Beckwith Middle School students and Dighton-Rehoboth School Superintendent Bill Runey were honored on May 21 at the Russell Latham Citizens Recognition Awards Night hosted by the Rehoboth Lions Club.
Seventh grader Macy Frissell and eighth grader Abbie Oldmixon were named recipients of the Rehoboth Lions Outstanding Youth Award, which recognizes young individuals whose personal qualities and community contributions serve as models for others. Frissell was celebrated for her exceptional compassion, creativity, and leadership. A dedicated member of the ACE Community Service Group and the Beckwith Kindness Task Force, she played an active role in caroling at the Council on Aging, supporting the Project 351 Clothing Drive, and coordinating food drive efforts. Frissell also
volunteered at Green Lock Therapeutic Riding Center, supporting individuals with disabilities.
In addition to her service, she helped design and paint a mural at her school, Macy won second place in Bristol County’s Fire Safety Poster Contest, and earned first place in the PTSA State Reflections Contest. “Macy’s leadership is marked by humility and purpose, making her a standout role model for her peers,” Runey said.
Abbie Oldmixon was recognized for her inspiring dedication to both service and achievement. She brought joy to Rehoboth seniors through holiday caroling, helped lead school wide donation drives, and was named a Project 351 Runner-Up. A leader on the Beckwith Believers Unified Team, she also shined athletically as a softball champion and field hockey player, and academically as a member of the league-winning Debate Team. “Abbie’s kindness, determination, and consistent excellence reflect the best of the Beckwith and Rehoboth communities,” Runey noted.
Runey received the 2025 Rehoboth Public Servant of the Year Award. Since taking on the role of Superintendent in 2022, Runey has helped the district with his strategic #WeAreDR focus. Runey explained his efforts to foster collaboration and public trust have not only benefited Rehoboth but have gained attention at the national level, earning him a 2025 Innovative Superintendent Award from Tech & Learning magazine.
“We are immensely proud of Macy, Abbie, and Superintendent Runey,” said School Committee Chairperson Aaron Morse. “Each of them represents the very best of Dighton-Rehoboth - leaders who serve others, lead with heart, and uplift our community through their actions.”
Rehoboth Antiquarian Society Scholarship
The RAS Scholarship Committee is accepting applications for the 2025-2026 second semester scholarship. Applicants must be planning to major in a field related to museum or library studies. This may include museum or library sciences, history, archaeology, anthropology, conservation, restoration, preservation, etc. Eligible students live in Rehoboth, or its surrounding communities, or have a significant connection to Rehoboth. Applicants should be enrolled in, or accepted by, an academic institution or an institution offering programs aligned with our mission. Eligible programs will lead to a degree or certificate. All applications will be considered on a case by case basis. Additional information and an application can be found on our website (https://rehobothantiquarian.org/ras-scholarship/) The deadline for applications is Friday, June 20, 2025.
Superintendent Bill Runey, AbbieOldmixon and Macy Frissell receive their awards.
Dighton-Rehoboth High School Fishing Club
Hosts Annual Tournament at Anawan Club
On Saturday, May 24th, the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School (DRRHS) Fishing Club held its annual fishing tournament at the scenic Anawan Club in Rehoboth. This marks the sixth year that the Anawan Club has generously sponsored, hosted, and supported this exciting event.
Nearly two dozen DRRHS students and their families spent a beautiful day outdoors, enjoying the peaceful surroundings and casting their lines in friendly competition. The Fishing Club extends its heartfelt thanks to the Anawan Club for its continued hospitality and support.
A special shoutout goes to DRRHS faculty member Dalita Tommellini (Robotics/Engineering), who went above and beyond
by preparing and serving breakfast and lunch for everyone in attendance. The Club also thanks Anawan Club members and faculty member Tom Ranley for their ongoing commitment and hands-on assistance in making this event a success year after year.
Prizes were awarded for the largest bass caught, with the following standout results:
1st Place ($180): Carlos Dawood
2nd Place ($120): Carter Steele
Every participant caught at least one fish, and spirits were high throughout the day. It was a memorable event full of community, camaraderie, and fun for all involved.
• Reclaim your yard from woods encroachment. Removal of dead trees, shrubs, stumps & vines
1st place winner, Carlos Dawood (freshman)
2nd place winner, Carter Steele (junior)
Palmer River Elementary School’s Third Grade Wax Museum
Brings History to Life
Palmer River Elementary School was buzzing with excitement, creativity, and pride this week as third grade students dazzled families, staff, and community members during the annual Wax Museum event.
In a celebration of historical achievement and student learning, each third grader brought a notable Massachusetts historical figure to life through impressive costumes, well-researched presentations, and confident performances. Students stood poised in character, ready to share facts, stories, and insights with every visitor who stopped by their “museum exhibit.”
“This was an incredible showcase of learning, curiosity, and hard work,” said third grade teacher, Mrs. Karen Salois. “We are so proud of each and every student for the dedication they showed in preparing for this special day.”
The Wax Museum is more than just a performance—it’s an opportunity to help ignite a love of learning, empower students to use their voices, and shape confident, capable young leaders. Students embraced the challenge of researching biographical details, memorizing key facts, and stepping into the shoes of historical figures ranging from presidents and inventors to artists and activists.
A special thanks goes out to the third-grade teaching team and support staff who guided students through weeks of preparation. “Our amazing staff put tremendous time, energy, and care into this project,” said Principal Kristine Kefor. “Their commitment to excellence made this experience both meaningful and memorable for our learners.”
Palmer River Elementary School extends its gratitude to families and community members who came out to support the event and celebrate the incredible work of these young historians.
Bishop Feehan Announces Third Quarter Honor Roll 2024-2025
Vice Principal for Academics, Charlotte Lourenco, is proud to announce the Honor Roll students for the third quarter. Honor Roll is a recognition of high-performing students based on the student’s overall average in any given quarter, regardless of the levels of their classes. Bishop Feehan has three levels of Honor Roll. First Honors is awarded to students whose overall average in that quarter is grade 93.00 or higher, Second Honors is grade 90.00 or higher, and Third Honors is 85.00 or higher, with no individual grade below 80.
REHOBOTH:
First Honors: Emma Andrade (9), Madison Coyne (10), Mackayla Creighton (10), Noelle Salwierz (10), Grace Callaghan (11), Andrew Placido (11), Landyn Andrade (12), Jessica Lyle (12), Mylee Ramer (12), Abigail Salwierz (12)
Second Honors: Gillian Creighton (9), Bailey D’Alessio (9), Emma Rapp (9), Mayukha Reddy (9), Allen Shapiro (9), Zachary Sidok (9), Sophia Andrade (10), Andrew Sanford (10), Kaden Baltazar (11)
Third Honors: Cyanna Devaney (9), Taylor Pierce (9), Ryan Avila (10), James Mello (10), Mackinley Garcia (11), Jake Ryan (11), Benjamin Cote (12), Joseph DiGirolamo III (12), Isabella Silva (12)
SEEKONK
First Honors: Riyan Jones (9), Emily Azzouz (10), Guillianna Leitao (10), Lorna Nassef (10), Emily Rebelo (10), Matthew Roslonek (11), Elena Borden (12), Lucas Custodio (12), Jack Desmarais (12)
Second Honors: Oliver Casasola (9), Dana Kiriaki (10)
With preparations fully underway for a May 29th graduation, Bishop Feehan High School proudly announces its top-ranked students in the Class of 2025 Four years of academic excellence, along with active involvement across all of Feehan’s many extracurricular offerings are the common denominator here.
Local Students in the Top 10 (alphabetically) are: Elena Borden (Seekonk, MA), Abigail Salwierz (Rehoboth, MA)
These students will join 244 additional graduates at the school’s 61st graduation ceremonies.
Local Students Receive Honors at Saint Raphael Academy
Saint Raphael Academy congratulates students from Bristol County who have achieved honor roll status for the third quarter marking period in academic year 2024-25. They are:
First Honors
Grade 9: Logan Franco (Seekonk)
Grade 11: Emma Chartier (Rehoboth)
Grade 12: Lucas Rosa (Seekonk)
Second Honors
Grade 10: Amilton SilvaJr. (Seekonk)
Grade 12: Amanda de Abreu (Rehoboth)
Visit www.saintrays.org
Third grade students dressed for the Wax Museum
SPOTLIGHT on SPORTS
Dighton-Rehoboth Falcons Fall Short To Seekonk Warriors On
On May 21, the Falcons’ Senior Day quickly became a pitching duel between the DR Falcons and the Seekonk Warriors. Junior Cole Arruda eventually outlasted senior Ben Miller to lead the Warriors to a one-run victory.
The lone score came in the top of the second inning, with Greyson Baldizar scoring on a passed ball. From that point on, defense dominated the game, with both teams showcasing their skills in the field. Seekonk turned a double-play in the bottom of the third, eliminating the Falcons’ threat and allowing for a speedy end to the inning. The top of the fourth brought about an illfated attempt at stealing, where Falcons catcher Brennan Silva cut down a Seekonk player attempting to advance to second. The Falcons threatened an attack in the bottom of the fifth inning and managed to get a runner to third base, but remained scoreless as the inning came to a close. This pattern continued to the bottom of the seventh, where Cole Arruda recorded two final strikeouts. The game concluded on a fly ball secured in the glove of the Seekonk center fielder, and the Warriors emerged triumphant.
While offensive highlights were few and far between, the game was a testament to stellar pitching performances from both starters. Although the Falcons fell just short, senior Ben Miller delivered an impressive showing on the mound, tallying 11 strikeouts while giving up only four hits and three walks over six strong innings. Arruda, equally impressive, went the distance for Seekonk, yielding just three hits and three walks while striking out eight.
The DR Falcons (13-6) and the Seekonk Warriors (12-6) can reflect proudly on this game, but must keep their minds focused on the ones to come. Both teams won the first round of playoff games, with the Falcons besting the Boston Latin Academy Dragons 8-1, while the Warriors pulled through a 5-2 victory on Upper Cape Cod RVT.
As the playoff picture emerges and the postseason inches closer, both teams must find a way to wake up their bats if they hope to go far. Perhaps, the stars will align, and the Falcons will get a chance to even the score against the Warriors. Until then, Seekonk remains victorious, besting Dighton-Rehoboth 1-0.
Senior Day, Losing 1-0
by Sofia Brown
Nine Seniors were celebrated on Senior Night: Back Row: Coach Cuthbertson, Jason Gelfuso, Gavin Salera, Brennan Silva, Ben Miller, Charlie Roth. Front Row: Shane Baker, Jake McGarry, Lucas Letourneau, Aidan Melo.
DR Sports Roundup
by Sofia Brown
DR Varsity Softball
The DR Falcons remain one of the strongest softball teams in Division 3, fresh off a 2024 championship win and looking for another. Led by Senior Captains Haleigh Kelley, Skye Harrison, and Emma Horrocks, the Falcons have wasted no time falling right back into winning form. Their season has been electric, and after their latest win against Bishop-Feehan High School, they sit at a 19-2 record for the 2025 season. This year, the Dighton-Rehoboth Softball Team is outscoring opponents 211-43, highlighting their strength offensively and defensively. For the DR Falcons, it is not a question of if they’ll make the playoffs, but instead, how far they will go.
DR Boys Varsity Lacrosse
The Falcons Varsity Lacrosse Team turned things around this season, finishing with an impressive 10-6 record, a huge improvement from last year. With new head coach Adam St leading the charge, Dighton-Rehoboth went through a rebuilding phase that paid off in a big way. This wasn’t the young, inexperienced squad of seasons past, but a team that knows how to handle the pressure. From tough matchups to clutch moments, they proved they were ready for anything. Their determination and growth made all the difference, transforming them into a force to be reckoned with. As they look ahead, the Falcons have set the foundation for even greater success in the future.
DR Girls Varsity Lacrosse
The Dighton-Rehoboth girls’ lacrosse team has had a strong season, finishing with a 12-8 overall record and going 7-4 in the highly competitive SCC. Led by captains Karina Bosco, Olivia Thibert, Marrison Levesque, and Danielle Ptaszek, the team has shown resilience and determination throughout the season. One of their most thrilling victories came against Old Rochester, a team they had never beaten before in program history. After falling to ORR on their home field in a tough 8-12 loss, the Falcons refused to back down. Their relentless effort paid off when they secured a hard-fought win on their own turf, marking a historic moment for DR girls’ lacrosse. Top scorers for the team this season have been Bosco, Thibert, and Mara Levesque, while the defense has been a game-changer, improving significantly with each match. Now, the Falcons await their playoff matchup, eager to continue their fight and make a deep run. With their unwavering spirit and strong team chemistry, they’re ready for whatever comes next.
DR Spring Track
The Dighton-Rehoboth varsity track team has had a standout season, marked by growth, dedication, and impressive performances across all disciplines. Among the distance runners, Quinn Kotch has been a key performer, making an impact as an eighth grader and earning a trip to the state meet for the 2-mile event. On the girls’ side, the 4x800 relay team is preparing for the state divisional meet this upcoming Saturday, showcasing the team’s competitive spirit and ability to perform at a high level. For the boys, steady improvement has been a theme. Leading the charge has been senior captain Jeremy Gale, the team’s top distance runner and a state qualifier. His success has been a testament to the hard work and determination that have propelled the team forward. With many athletes qualifying for high-level meets and new talent emerging, the Falcons have made significant strides this season, creating a foundation for success in years to come.
Dighton-Rehoboth Girls Varsity Tennis
The Falcons Girls Tennis Team showed grit and determination this season, finishing with a 4-8 record at the end of May. While the
numbers might not tell the full story, their ability to bounce back was an impressive feature of their season. The team always refused to back down, learning from their mistakes and coming back stronger the second time around. Their resilience paid off as they secured victories against opponents who had beaten them before, highlighting their ability to adapt under pressure. Each match was a chance to improve, and the Falcons made sure to capitalize on those opportunities. With this mindset, they’ve laid a strong foundation for future success, proving that perseverance and hard work can turn setbacks into victories.
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Dighton-Rehoboth Boys Varsity Tennis
The DR Boys Tennis Team wrapped up their season with a balanced 6-6 record, proving themselves to be steady competitors on the court. Their ability to maintain consistency throughout the season highlighted their determination and skill, ensuring they stayed competitive in every matchup. Whether battling through tough losses or capitalizing on key victories, the team showed resilience and a strong commitment to improvement. Each match presented an opportunity to sharpen their game, and they embraced every
challenge with confidence. With an even record to build upon, the Falcons are poised to take their experience forward and elevate their performance in seasons to come.
Dighton Rehoboth Boys Varsity Volleyball
Dighton-Rehoboth Boys Varsity Volleyball played with heart and determination all season, finishing with a 3-15 record. Their record may not tell the whole story, but their dedication and fight on the court certainly do. Every game was a battle, and the team refused to back down, proving that effort and passion can’t be measured by wins alone. Connor Bessette emerged as a key player, consistently delivering strong performances and serving as a driving force for DR’s offense. Their ability to learn and adjust was evident when they avenged an earlier loss to King Phillip Regional High School by sweeping them in their next meeting, proving that their urgency and skill are constantly evolving. If the Falcons continue to play with grit and smart fundamentals, they have the potential to turn heads in the seasons to come.
Seekonk Sports Roundup
by Sofia Brown
Seekonk Varsity Softball
The Seekonk High School varsity softball team has wrapped up an impressive season, finishing with a strong 13-8 record. Their consistent performance reflects a season full of hard-fought games, teamwork, and dedication. With determination and resilience, the Warriors have battled tough opponents and secured key victories, proving themselves as a competitive force on the field. Throughout the season, Seekonk has demonstrated steady improvement, refining its skills and building team chemistry with every game. Their ability to adapt and stay focused in challenging situations has been a testament to their work ethic and passion for the sport. Whether at home or on the road, the Warriors have fought hard, showcasing their talent and making a mark in their league. Though their season has come to an end, the team’s achievements set a strong foundation for the future. With the momentum from this year’s success, Seekonk’s players will look to continue developing their game and pushing for even bigger accomplishments next season.
Seekonk Varsity Track
The Seekonk High School track and field team had an outstanding showing in the South Coast Conference, bringing home multiple titles across various events. Hayden Robison dominated the 800-meter race, securing the girls’ SCC championship with a strong performance. In the sprint relays, Caelen Mahoney, Emily Cloutier, Julianna Dutra, and Olive McCann raced their way to victory in the girls’ 4x100-meter relay, while Nico Bonafiglia, Jake Conceicao, Anthony Vicente, and Eddie Hindle claimed the boys’ title in the same event. Bonafiglia also shined individually, setting a personal record on his way to capturing the SCC championship in the 100-meter dash. In the field events, Alivia Cosme proved her strength, winning the SCC championship in girls’ shot put. With multiple championship performances, Seekonk athletes showcased their hard work, dedication, and skill, making a lasting impression in their league. Their efforts throughout the season led to this moment, and their success at the SCC Championships was a testament to their determination and talent. The Warriors continue to build a strong program, and their achievements set the stage for even greater success in the future.
Seekonk Girls Varsity Lacrosse
The Seekonk High School girls’ lacrosse team showed unwavering determination this season, finishing with a 7-13 record. The Warriors battled hard in every game, refusing to back down and always leaving it all on the field. A standout performer this season has been sophomore Evelyn Crane, whose impact has been undeniable. Twice featured on Seekonk’s Athletic Page, Crane earned recognition as Player of the Week for her stellar offensive play and later celebrated a milestone achievement with her 100th career goal. Her impressive talent and leadership at such a young age signal a bright future for Seekonk lacrosse. Despite challenges, the team’s grit and resilience have laid the groundwork for growth and improvement. With players like Crane leading the charge, Seekonk girls’ lacrosse continues to develop, and the program’s future looks promising. Their competitive spirit and determination will propel them toward greater victories in seasons to come.
Seekonk Boys Varsity Lacrosse
The Seekonk High School boys’ lacrosse team wrapped up the season with a 6-11 record, battling through each game with determination and grit. While the season presented challenges, the Warriors continued to show resilience and a competitive spirit. A standout moment came in the season opener when senior captain Connor Terrien made history. Terrien secured his 100th career goal in a dominant 21-10 victory over Sturgis, earning recognition as Seekonk’s Player of the Week. His leadership and skill set the tone for the season, inspiring his teammates to push forward and compete at a high level. With athletes like Terrien leading the way, Seekonk boys’ lacrosse has a foundation to build upon, and the program continues to evolve. Their dedication and perseverance will surely fuel future success.
Seekonk Girls Varsity Tennis
The Seekonk High School girls’ tennis team wrapped up a strong season with a 9-7 record, showing consistency and determination on the court. Led by captains Madison Fitzgerald and Lyla Owens, the Warriors competed with focus and skill, earning hard-fought victories throughout the season. Standout players Liana DeFonseca, Julia Tortolani, and Grace Baldassi have been key contributors, helping drive the team’s success with their talent and dedication. Whether dominating singles matches or rallying in doubles competition, they played a crucial role in Seekonk’s winning season. With leadership, teamwork, and individual excellence, the Warriors proved themselves as a formidable force, making this season a memorable one for the program.
Seekonk Boys Varsity Tennis
The Seekonk High School boys’ varsity tennis team battled through a challenging season, finishing with a 5-11 record. While the numbers may not fully capture their efforts, the Warriors showed resilience and determination in every match, refusing to back down against tough competition. Throughout the season, Seekonk demonstrated growth, refining their skills and pushing themselves to compete at a high level. Each match presented an opportunity for the team to sharpen their play, adjust their strategies, and work together to secure hard-fought victories. Despite facing strong opponents, the Warriors remained committed, playing with energy and determination until the final point. With each win, the Warriors showed flashes of their potential, making the most of their opportunities and leaving it all on the court. Their hard work throughout the season reflected their passion for tennis and the effort they put in every day.
“It’s hard to beat a PERSON who NEVER GIVES UP.” ~Babe Ruth
CARLSON TREE
Seekonk
Seekonk 10U Warriors
Photo Credit Jennifer Pavlovich Photography
Local Farm & Garden Centers
Rooted in Community
By Sofia Brown
In a world where big-box stores and online giants dominate, it’s the local businesses that keep our communities grounded. These hometown staples do more than just offer goods and services- they help preserve the small-town charm and neighborly spirit that so many of us cherish. Whether it’s the familiar face behind the counter, the personalized service, or the pride they take in serving their neighborhood, these businesses are the heart of our county. We must continue to invest in our community, the way our community invests in us.
If you’re in the market for fresh produce, garden and lawn care, homemade goods, tasty pastries, or cozy alpaca apparel, be sure to check out the following listings!
Kave Rock Farm
Kave Rock Farm is a charming, small working farm nestled in Rehoboth, Massachusetts, dedicated to raising award-winning alpacas and providing unique experiences for visitors. Since its unexpected start in 2012, when the farm acquired four healthy, prize-winning female alpacas, the herd has grown to 20-25 alpacas, each cared for with expertise and passion.
Visitors can enjoy free weekly farm visits, offering an up-close look at these gentle animals while learning about their care and the farm’s operations. In addition to breeding and selling alpacas, Kave Rock Farm provides off-site wedding and birthday packages, allowing guests to incorporate these beautiful creatures into their special celebrations. The farm also runs an alpaca foster program, giving individuals the opportunity to support and engage with these remarkable animals.
Beyond its hands-on experiences, Kave Rock Farm specializes in high-quality alpaca fiber products, with 95% of its offerings made in the USA. From cozy apparel to handcrafted accessories, the farm’s online shop showcases a growing selection of locally produced goods, ensuring customers can enjoy the warmth and durability of alpaca fiber.
Kave Rock Farm is more than just a working farm- It’s a place where visitors can connect with nature, experience the charm of alpacas, and support locally made, high-quality products. With its dedication to sustainability, community engagement, and expert care, the farm continues to be a special destination for animal lovers and those seeking unique, handcrafted goods.
With glowing reviews and a strong reputation, Kave Rock Farm continues to be a beloved destination for alpaca enthusiasts and those looking to support sustainable, locally made products. Located at 142 Reservoir Ave, Rehoboth, MA 02769, the farm welcomes visitors to explore its offerings, meet its alpacas, and experience the charm of this unique agricultural haven. More information and products can be found on their website at kaverockalpaca.com, or at the address listed above.
Little Tree Nurseries has been a trusted name in Seekonk for 27 years, providing high-quality landscaping and gardening solutions while fostering a strong connection with the local community. Spanning an impressive 43 acres, Little Tree Nurseries offers an extensive selection of trees, plants, and landscaping materials. Employees bring expert eyes and years of experience to help customers find the perfect additions to their outdoor spaces, offering thoughtful suggestions and personalized advice. Specializing in retail landscaping provisions, the business supplies everything needed for gardening, lawn care, and hardscaping projects. Customers can expect exceptional quality while benefiting from unbeatable prices, often lower than big-name competitors. Despite industry fluctuations, Little Tree Nurseries has remained committed to keeping its prices affordable while maintaining professional-grade excellence.
With a loyal clientele, many of whom have been returning for over 20 years, the nursery stands as a testament to its dedication to customer satisfaction. As an active supporter of the community, the business donates to local causes, further strengthening its ties to the area. Customers can also engage with the nursery online, following specialized posts on Instagram and Facebook, including its featured “Tree of the Month” highlights.
In addition to its regular offerings, Little Tree Nurseries runs seasonal promotions, such as its special deals for Father’s Day in June, ensuring that customers find exciting opportunities to enhance their landscapes year-round. Beyond supplying plants and materials, the nursery provides full-service landscaping support, including pruning roses and maintaining gardens with expert care.
Conveniently located at 1441 Newman Ave, Seekonk, MA 02771, Little Tree Nurseries invites visitors to explore its expansive selection, experience knowledgeable customer service, and invest in their landscapes with confidence. Whether seeking a single tree or planning an entire outdoor transformation, this nursery remains a go-to destination for quality, affordability, and expert guidance.
Souza Family Farm
Souza Family Farm has been a cornerstone of the farming industry for years, cultivating high-quality produce and plants while primarily operating as a wholesaler. This season marks an exciting transformation as the farm expands its front stand, offering a wider variety of fresh selections to better serve loyal customers while welcoming new visitors eager to experience locally grown excellence.
To launch the season in full bloom, the farm presents a stunning assortment of flowers, including impatiens, marigolds, Gerbera daisies, geraniums, and other vibrant annuals that bring color and life to any garden. The ever-popular hanging baskets remain a staple, accompanied by striking combination baskets designed to delight the eye. Special red, white, and blue arrangements provide a patriotic touch, perfect for Fourth of July festivities or heartfelt celebrations honoring returning veterans.
As the season progresses, the farm will expand its selection to include a wide array of fresh vegetables and fruits, ensuring customers have access to the best locally grown produce available. Crisp lettuce and flavorful salad greens will be among the first offerings, soon followed by summer and zucchini squash, green beans, and juicy blueberries, each harvested at peak ripeness to guarantee premium taste and quality.
The farm’s commitment to quality, freshness, and innovation shines through in every aspect of its expansion. Customers can expect the same attention to detail and dedication that has made Souza Family Farm a trusted name, now with even more selections to enjoy. Whether shopping for vibrant flowers, homegrown herbs, or the freshest fruits and vegetables, visitors will find an outstanding range of locally cultivated products that support both their health and the local agricultural community.
Conveniently found at 25 Agricultural Ave, Rehoboth, MA, Souza Family Farm welcomes visitors to experience the freshest selections of the season and enjoy the benefits of locally sourced produce straight from the farm.
Sunday, June 15th
Open Monday noon-5, Tuesday-Friday 10-5, Saturday and Sunday 9:30-5
Bay State Pet and Garden Center Supply
Bay State Pet and Garden Supply, located at 429 Winthrop Street in Taunton, is a trusted destination for high-quality lawn, garden, and pet care products. Proudly serving both homeowners and professional landscapers, Bay State offers a comprehensive range of supplies designed to meet every outdoor need.
From premium soil, mulch, and fertilizers to healthy plants and reliable pest control solutions, Bay State provides the materials and guidance to help customers maintain vibrant, healthy landscapes. For those still managing their lawn this June, the store carries expert-grade Jonathan Green products- ideal for achieving professional results. Bay State also provides professional soil analysis testing, helping customers understand their soil’s pH levels and nutrient needs to ensure optimal plant growth. For larger projects, bulk delivery of mulch, loam, and stone is available.
In addition to lawn care, Bay State offers solutions for insect and mosquito control, as well as fly control products designed to protect animals in barn and farm settings. Their knowledgeable staff is available to offer expert advice on identifying weeds, diagnosing pest issues, and selecting the safest and most effective treatment methods.
The store is open seven days a week: Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Customers may also place orders online or schedule deliveries through their website: www.baystatepet.com.
Bay State Pet and Garden Supply remains committed to providing top-tier products, personalized service, and dependable solutions for every level of outdoor care.
Pleasant Street Family Farm
Big things are happening at Pleasant Tree Family Farm! Once known for its beloved Christmas trees, this historic farm is making a comeback by replanting trees, nursing them back to health, and bringing the holiday magic back. But that’s just the start. Today, Pleasant Tree Family Farm is more than a tree farm, but a yearround destination for fresh food, community connection, and locally made treasures.
Expanding beyond its traditional offerings, Pleasant Tree Family Farm has transformed into a year-round destination for fresh food, handcrafted goods, and seasonal celebrations. Visitors will find locally grown produce, including juicy watermelon, crisp cucumbers, farm-fresh organic eggs, and even peaches, pears, and apples from the orchard.
Inside the farm store, creativity and craftsmanship from the community shine. Shelves are filled with handmade claw clips, earrings, mugs, wreaths, wooden carvings, and other treasures crafted with care by local makers. Shopping here means supporting neighbors, keeping traditions alive, and enjoying quality goods at affordable prices.
Each season brings something new. Autumn welcomes hayrides, pumpkins, and gourds, while December bursts into holiday cheer with festive events and fresh Christmas trees returning this year.
Located at 187 Pleasant Street, Rehoboth, MA, Pleasant Tree Family Farm is open Saturday, Sunday, and Tuesday from 10 AM to 4 PM, with extended hours coming in July. For updates on seasonal events, farm news, and handcrafted arrivals, follow Pleasant Street Family Farms on Facebook.
A historic farm renewed, a community uplifted—Pleasant Tree Family Farm continues to grow while staying deeply connected to its local roots.
This summer we will have an assortment of fresh veggies grown on the property. When the “fresh eggs” flag is out we have eggs from free range chickens fed organic food. Stop by our Gift Shop for unique and custom gifts.
J & L Landscape Garden Center
J & L Landscaping and Garden Center has been a trusted name in landscaping, gardening, and outdoor solutions since its establishment in 1977. With a deep commitment to cultivating the community, helping homeowners and businesses bring their visions to life, and being an integral part of Seekonk and surrounding areas, J & L remains just one phone call away from turning outdoor spaces into works of art.
Operating as a full-service nursery, J & L Landscaping and Garden Center offers an extensive selection of plants, soil, compost, and pond supplies, ensuring that every gardening and landscaping project has the essential materials needed for success. Customers can explore high-quality stones, perfect for hardscaping and masonry work, adding structure and beauty to yards and outdoor living spaces. Additionally, the business runs a loading yard, providing bulk purchases of compost, pine bark, gravel, and other landscaping necessities for larger projects.
J & L Landscape & Garden Center
Taunton Ave. Seekonk, MA 02771 Available for Delivery & Pickup
Screened Loam • Screened Compost
Mason Sand
Playground Mulch
Cobblestone, all sizes
AnnuAls, PerenniAls, shrubs & Trees
Beyond supplying materials, J & L is also deeply involved in landscape design, installation, and maintenance, catering to both residential and commercial clients. Whether it’s creating an eyecatching garden, installing functional outdoor elements, or ensuring properties remain pristine with routine maintenance, the team combines expertise with creativity to achieve outstanding results. With decades of industry experience, J & L continues to set the standard for landscaping excellence.
Located at 363 Taunton Ave, Seekonk, MA, J & L Landscaping and Garden Center remains a cornerstone of the local community, offering top-tier landscaping solutions and materials with reliability and dedication. Whether it’s a small gardening project or a complete landscape transformation, J & L is ready to help bring visions to life with quality and care.
Moonrose Farm Stand
Moonrose Farm Stand is a charming local destination, dedicated to providing fresh, organic produce and handcrafted goods to the community. Open every Saturday and Sunday from 9 AM to 4 PM, the stand offers a variety of seasonal vegetables, baked goods, and pasteurized eggs, all sourced with care and quality in mind.
With the arrival of June, the farm stand begins to overflow with an abundance of fresh vegetables, bringing crisp greens and vibrant flavors to local tables. By July, vine-ripened tomatoes come into full bloom, adding rich, summer-fresh taste to the selection. Every visit brings new offerings, ensuring customers always find something delicious and nutritious.
Beyond its farm-fresh produce, Moonrose Farm Stand also specializes in breathtaking wedding floral designs, serving couples across New England. With a vast range of floral arrangements, the business highlights versatility and creativity, offering unique, customized displays for every occasion.
Rooted in history, the farm traces its origins back to the 1750s, when the land was first cultivated for agriculture. The tradition continues today, thanks to owner Jordan, who began working in the fields and officially opened the farm stand in 2020. Committed to supporting local businesses, Moonrose encourages customers to buy fresh, shop locally, and experience the warmth and quality of a community-driven farm.
Moonrise Farm Stand is right down the road at 88 Mason St, Rehoboth, MA 02769, and welcomes visitors to explore its selection, enjoy locally grown goods, and celebrate the beauty of sustainable farming.
Bagged Goods:
Composted / Dehydrated
Manure Tree & Shrub Mix
Hemlock Mulch
Red Mulch
Cedar Mulch
Pine Mulch
Hours: Mon-Sat 7:30-4:30, Sun 8:00-3:00 • 508-399-8947
Writer Bio: Hello, all! My name is Fia Brown, and I am a Rehoboth local! I am attending the University of Rochester, majoring in Creative Writing and minoring in History and Legal Studies. I have my sights set on attending Law School after I graduate, and I am elated to be writing for the Rehoboth & Seekonk Reporter this summer!
Charlie hopes you stop by J&L!
Inside the Greenhouse at Moonrose Farm
Susan S. Green
Susan S. Green
In RemembeRance
Susan S. Green, 63, of Rehoboth, passed unexpectedly with her husband and son by her side on May 7, 2025.
Born in Providence, she was the daughter of the late Omer T. Tetreault and Angela B. (Tremblay) Tetreault of Lincoln.
After graduating from Attleboro High School, she worked in customer service for Travelers Insurance Company for several years. She then worked as a waitress at several area restaurants. She was an avid card player, loved gardening, the Drum Corp Bands, spending time with her loving family, and her faith in Jesus Christ.
She is survived by her devoted husband of 42 years, Peter E. Green Sr., her son Peter E. Green Jr his wife Staci, her siblings, Steven O. Tetreault, fiancé Beth Stamps, Bernadette A. Tetreault Manard, her husband Timothy, Armand S, Tetreault, his wife Iris, several nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.
Visitation will be held Friday. May 16, 2025 from 4pm until 7pm in the Keefe Funeral Home, Five Higginson Ave, Lincoln. Her funeral will be held Saturday, May 17, 2025 at 10am directly at Crossroads International Church, 1052 Newport Ave, Attleboro, MA 02703. Burial will be private.
Death Notices Seekonk
• Joyce E. (Dickerman) Palmer, 89, of Marnoch Drive, Seekonk, died peacefully at home on April 25, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
• Diane Fox, 80, passed away on Thursday, May 15, 2025 at Brigham & Women’s Hospital, surrounded by her family.
Ronald L. “Pep” Roy
Ronald L. “Pep” Roy, 87, of Seekonk, passed away on Wednesday, May 21, 2025 at Rhode Island Hospital.
Born in Pawtucket, he was the son of the late Donat and Therese (Hamel) Roy.
Mr. Roy was a metal worker for Providence Metalizing before retiring. He was a motorcycle enthusiast and was the owner of a 1975 Super Glide Harley Davidson. He also owned a 1948 Studebaker pick-up truck and several Volkswagens which he loved. He was an animal
lover with a quick wit and a positive
“Pep” Roy outlook on life. He was loved by everyone and will be deeply missed.
He leaves four children, Laurie Bobola and her husband Ronald of Warwick, Karen Bereznicki and her husband John of Arkansas, Robert Roy and his wife Sue-Ann of Rehoboth and Amy Roy and her husband David Mackay of Riverside, five grandchildren, two great grandchildren, three siblings, Irene Kelsall, Eleanor Livingston and Edmond Roy and many nieces and nephews. He was the father of the late Ronald L. Roy, Jr. grandfather of the late David Harrison, Jr. and brother of the late Carol Benevides and Donat E. “Don” Roy, Jr.
His calling hours will be held on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM in the PERRY-MCSTAY FUNERAL HOME, 2555 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence.
Jason K. Landry Daniel A. Laneres Sandra M. Reis Michael S. Sladen of Rehoboth Fala Português
From the State House
Representative Steven S. Howitt and House Chamber Honors David F. Viera at Inaugural Statewide Military Appreciation Day
State Representative Steven S. Howitt proudly nominated and honored David F. Viera of Seekonk at the first-ever Military Appreciation Day ceremony held in the Massachusetts State House’s historic House Chamber on Thursday, May 22nd, 2025.
Military Appreciation Day was created by the Healey-Driscoll Administration to establish a lasting annual tradition that brings together local, state, and community leaders to honor those whose service might otherwise go unrecognized. Over 125 individuals who exemplify commitment to service and community were recognized from districts across Massachusetts.
“I am proud to recognize David F. Viera for his brave and honorable service to our country as a member of the United States Marine Corps, as well as his unwavering commitment to the Seekonk community,” said Representative Howitt. “His contributions reflect the strength, resilience, and dedication of our local military community.”
The ceremony featured remarks from Governor Maura Healey, Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, Veterans Services Secretary Jon Santiago, Senate President Karen Spilka, and a keynote address by General Joseph F. Dunford, Jr. (Ret.), former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and 36th Commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps.”
The keynote address was delivered by General Joseph F. Dunford, Jr. (Ret.), former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and 36th Commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps. A Boston native and one of the most distinguished military leaders in recent history, General Dunford spoke about the legacy of service, leadership, and community and the importance of honoring those who serve across generations.
A lunch reception was donated by the Military Friends Foundation, a Massachusetts nonprofit dedicated to providing support and emergency assistance to military families and families of the fallen.
Representative Steven S. Howitt Supports Supplemental Budget to Fund State Programs for Veterans, the Elderly and Families in Need
State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R-Seekonk) recently supported a $530 million supplemental budget to address funding shortfalls in several key state programs for Massachusetts veterans and the elderly, as well as individuals and families in need of food, housing and childcare assistance.
House Bill 4150 was engrossed by the House of Representatives on a vote of 149-1 on May 21, following floor debate on more than five dozen amendments filed by members. Representative Howitt noted that once federal reimbursements are factored in, the total net amount of state spending for the bill will be $318.2 million.
Representative Howitt noted that, in addition to providing $593,539 for the operations of the Massachusetts Military Division, the House bill also allocates $5.8 million in supplemental funding to cover the recent increase in annuity payments to veterans approved as part of Chapter 178 of the Acts of 2024, An Act Honoring, Empowering, and Recognizing our Servicemembers and Veterans, also known as the HERO Act. Another $60 million is included in the bill for home care services offered through the Executive Office of Aging and Independence for some of the state’s most vulnerable residents.
In an effort to promote food security and ensure that Massachusetts residents participating in the program have access to fresh local produce, the House has approved an infusion of $7.5 million for the Healthy Incentives Program (HIP). This program is made available to individuals receiving assistance through the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to encourage healthier food choices.
During floor debate, the House adopted several amendments, including one making a technical update to the 2024 gun law confirming that POST-certified law enforcement officials, including campus police officers, and qualifying retired law enforcement officials are exempt from the law’s provisions prohibiting the possession of an assault-style firearm. Another amendment requires the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to ensure meaningful communication between school personnel and parents and legal guardians of students receiving education services, and to ensure that interpreters communicating with parents in public schools are bilingual and have an understanding of specialized terms or concepts.
House Bill 4150, as amended, now moves to the Senate for its consideration.
Representative Steven S. Howitt Supports $61.4B
State Budget for Fiscal Year 2026
Advocates for multiple policy reforms to assist cities, towns and taxpayers technical schools from $104 per pupil to $150 per pupil. Representative Howitt noted Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District will receive $14,005,428, and Seekonk will receive $8,276,778 in direct education aid.
Boston – State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R-Seekonk) recently supported a $61.4 billion House budget proposal that holds the line on taxes, expands state education aid to municipalities, and sets state spending priorities for the new fiscal year that begins on July 1.
The House engrossed its spending plan by a vote of 151-6 on April 30, after three days of floor debate to consider a total of
1,650 budget amendments filed by members. Among those were several Republicansponsored policy proposals to assist cities and towns dealing with the implications of the MBTA Communities Act, facilitate law enforcement’s compliance with US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) criminal detainer requests, delay enforcement of the advanced clean cars regulations governing the state’s transition to electric vehicles, and limit eligibility for the state’s emergency shelter system to citizens who have resided in the Commonwealth for at least six months, among other initiatives.
During floor debate, Representative Steven S. Howitt successfully advocated for the inclusion of several local initiatives for his district. Included in the House budget proposal is funding for the remediation of water systems contaminated by per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Rehoboth, and necessary HVAC replacements to the Seekonk Public Safety Building.
Representative Howitt criticized the House Ways and Means Committee’s decision to level fund Unrestricted General Government Aid (UGGA) at $1.3 billion, noting that communities rely on this funding to support a variety of municipal programs and services, including teachers, police, firefighters, libraries, and senior centers. Under the current House budget proposal, Rehoboth is in line to receive $1,283,550, and Seekonk is in line to receive $1,515,221 in unrestricted local aid in the upcoming fiscal year.
Rehoboth, MA LICENSED & INSURED
MA #058544 Reg # 111902 RI# 7169
Representative Howitt noted the House budget includes $7.1 billion in Chapter 70 education aid, an increase of $257 million over current spending levels, along with a $240 million minimum aid supplement increasing per pupil aid to $150 per student, double the amount included in Governor Healey’s budget proposal. A consolidated amendment adopted during floor debate also increased the minimum per pupil aid funding for vocational, agricultural and
According to Representative Howitt, the House budget offers additional financial support to local communities and school districts by funding the Special Education Circuit Breaker at $484.7 million. It also allocates $198.9 million for charter school reimbursement, along with $122.1 million for regional school transportation, $28.7 million for homeless student transportation and $190 million for universal school meals.
Representative Howitt said he was pleased the House budget contains no new taxes, as the House opted not to pursue the $471 million in tax increases included in Governor Healey’s budget proposal.
The House budget now moves to the Senate.
CLASSIFIEDS
EVENTS
Seekonk Flea Market at Seekonk Speedway is open 7am-1pm every Sunday until December 7th, 2025. So many vendors with a large variety of items – there’s something for everyone! Vendors & Patrons welcome and wanted! For more information, call Linda at 401-263-5737.
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED Seekonk Flea Market is looking for someone to direct traffic, every Sunday between now and December 7th, 5am-12pm, Call Linda at 401-263-5737.
Yard Work Help Wanted: Teenage boy or girl to do yard work part time, $15/hr. Call 401-433-2922.
Join the Hippie N Trippie Dog Crew- Full-Time Service Team Member Wanted! We are hiring full-time service crew members at Hippie Dog (Mobile Food + Wellness Brand)!!! ARE YOU: Upbeat and friendly? High energy and ready to serve smiles with every order? Excited to work in a dynamic, community-centered environment? If so, this is the perfect position for you! We'll train you too, just bring the good vibes! WHAT YOU'LL DO: Prep and serve pastries, drinks, and other comfort foods. Greet customers and create a warm, welcoming atmosphere, keep the food prep area clean and organized, help set up and break down at special events and service locations, answer customer questions about Hippie Dog merchandise and our Crazy Eye Productions podcast. WHY JOIN HIPPIE DOG: Fun music, Fresh pastries, Positive energy, Creative, supportive team, Great benefits & competitive payLearn more: hippiedog.life
WANTED
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: Old comic books, top dollar paid, call 401-475-1612 or 401-389-0375 and leave message.
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.
Free seasoned horse manure by the bucket, barrel or truck. Call 508-353-7470.
Plants for Sale: House plants, annuals, perennials, succulents, good variety from $1- $10. Free plant with visit. Call 401-433-2922.
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 508-840-6611.
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 – Spring Tune-ups on all brands. 2 locations: in Riverside next to CVS 401-433-4491, and in Warren next to the Police Station and the bike path. Call Art or Joe for *NEW* hours and service. 401-245-9755
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.
To submit an obituary, please call the Reporter for rates and information. Obituaries Start at $120. 508-252-6575
