Thank you to all involved for hosting the recent RehobothSeekonk Rabies Clinic. Such a great event that brings so many good people together from both Towns who are pet owners. Thank you!
Vote On MBTA Law On Rezoning
There is an upcoming town meeting on Tuesday, June 2 that seriously affects our rural town. The residents voted 241 to 186 at the last town meeting in November 2025 to not adopt the state’s MBTA Communities Act which would require us to change our zoning to allow for multi-family housing “as of right.” “As of right” means multi-family housing would be allowed to go up in rezoned areas without special permits or other discretionary processes.
According to Jay Taleman - the town’s legal counsel, “There was no requirement for affordable housing in the MBTA law”, although other sources said 10% of units are income restricted. He also said that “it couldn’t be all wetlands, but nothing about this statute protects or exempts compliance with local wetland laws, title 5 rules, or natural heritage which are endangered species.
Rehoboth is required to put up at least 250 units with a density of 15 units per acre. These units could be three stories high, minimum open space 20%, maximum lot coverage 80%. Even though the residents voted no in November, the town is putting it on the warrant to vote again on June 2. The previous overlay was on Spring St. This one is proposed for Barney Ave. near Route 6. The MBTA has been a hot topic in many communities, with residents and officials worried about the impact on town services - fire, police,
Laura Schwall - Rehoboth Town Clerk, Andrea Russo - Seekonk Dog Officer, Kristen L’Heureux - Seekonk Town Clerk, Shaun WhalenSeekonk Fire Chief, Paul Jacques - Rehoboth Housing Authority
fic, budgets (including schools), community character and quality of life. There are some bills at the state level to revise or repeal the law, but nothing is guaranteed.
My biggest concern is once we change our zoning laws to allow multi-family housing, there is no turning back. If they are not built now, the change in zoning will allow developers to build in the future.
In regard to the Barney Ave. site, it is near the corner of Barney Ave and Route 6 where there have been many serious auto accidents. Another serious concern is the environmental impacts especially on our aquifer. Our source of water are wells. We don’t have a reservoir. We don’t know how much water we have recharged from snow, rain and underground sources. Recently we have been in an extended drought. Such high density could affect our resources of water.
Now to address the article in the April 2025 Rehoboth Reporter titled “Rehoboth Weighs Local Zoning Plan to Meet State Housing Law and Preserve Community Control - Unknown Author. There was a mention of the State’s coming in to enforce compliance potentially selecting a location for the zoning district without local input. In my opinion, this is a scare tactic and to my knowledge hasn’t been done in any city or town.
The author states that “Rehoboth risks losing access to certain state grants and funding programs”. Yes, we would lose money in the short term, but if the rezoning law passes the town will lose much morethe strain and extra cost on town resources - the fire department, police, schools, water, traffic etc. and change the character of our “right to farm” community. Also the author states “the law is already in effect, meaning a local vote cannot overturn it, but we can vote NO to not comply along with about nine other towns in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Please come out to vote on June 2.
Joan Caouette
Spring Groundhog
Five months below. What went on?
If I tried
To tell him, He’d be gone!
I let him stare. I let him look. And repent of the past summer flowers He took.
Don Gardner
Save The Warrior Painting in The S.H.S. Gymnasium
The profile of the warrior on the gymnasium wall at our high school has been there for over a quarter of a century. It is part of many yearbook photos, memories and personal photos of competitions in that gym. The artwork is hand painted (not a decal) and links our town history with that of the Wampanoag Native Americans that helped to establish Seekonk.
The gymnasium will be undergoing renovation this summer and per the Superintendent of Schools in Seekonk, the walls will be repainted, and the painting of the warrior will be painted over. To try to change her mind, I met with Ms. Kidwell, but it seemed the decision had been made. The artist has been notified that the painting CANNOT be taped off, to be painted around, as it has been so many times in the past 25 years. Why not? The artwork is not peeling, has held up well over the years and should be preserved. What painting contractor cannot tape off things that should not be painted over or destroyed?
And no, the mascot name of our high school is not changing, we will remain the Seekonk Warriors.
Norman Bowlin is the artist and my father.
This work of art was painted by him in ONE day, on a Sunday, and he did not receive any payment for the work, he just chose to paint the warrior showing the pride he has in our town and in our school. He started painting it early in the morning and painted it so late into the night that our Mom thought he may have fallen off the staging setup on the bleachers.
Dad is a lifelong resident of Seekonk and was very heavily involved in SHS sports. He was the SHS girls’ softball coach for over 18 years, a member of the “sideline chain gang” for Warrior football games for almost 2 decades and was inducted into the SHS Sports hall of fame a few years ago.
As a daughter, proud of her father, I am hoping to preserve his artwork of the warrior, to pass on his legacy for the love of art, the love for the school and his love for this town.
S.H.S. Class of 1978
Robin (Bowlin) Chlebek
The letters in this section and opinion articles do not reflect the views of the staff of The 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!
Empty Nets, Silent Seas
Overfishing is one of the biggest threats to the world’s oceans today. For many years, fishing has been an important way to provide food and jobs for millions of people around the world. However, modern technology, large fishing fleets, and growing demand for seafood have made it easier to catch huge amounts of fish in a short time. Because of this, many fish populations are shrinking, and some are close to disappearing. Preventing overfishing is important not only to protect ocean life, but also to support human communities and keep the balance of marine life.
One major way our community can prevent overfishing is by increasing regulations. Many state governments have created rules that limit how many fish can be caught during certain seasons. These limits are called catch limits. Scientists study fish populations and estimate how many can be safely removed without harming the species. If fish are caught in smaller amounts, populations have time to recover and reproduce. Some areas do not permit fishing during seasons, especially when fish are spawning. These rules help protect young fish and ensure future generations can survive.
Another important method for preventing overfishing is to establish more marine protected areas. MPA’s are sections where fishing is completely prohibited, and that allows populations to grow without any human interference. Although having 5 MPA’s in Massachusetts, only 27.9% of the state’s waters are moderately to fully protected, including restricted areas. Over time, fish in protected areas become more abundant and can spread into nearby waters where fishing is allowed. This helps maintain healthy fish populations in surrounding regions. Marine protected areas also protect coral reefs and other habitats important to fish survival. Healthy habitats provide food, shelter, and breeding grounds for many species.
In-Home Hair Services
Improving fishing technology and methods can also help prevent overfishing. Some fishing techniques accidentally catch animals that were not meant to be caught, such as sea turtles, dolphins and young fish. This unwanted catch is known as bycatch. New fishing gear, such as specially designed nets and hooks, can reduce bycatch and allow unwanted animals to escape safely. In addition, better tracking systems help monitor fishing boats and ensure safe and legal fishing. Satellite tracking and electronic reporting systems make it harder for illegal fishing to happen without being noticed.
Another way to prevent overfishing is through sustainable fishing practices. Sustainable fishing means catching fish in ways that do not harm the environment or reduce fish populations too much. Some fisheries follow strict guidelines to protect fish stocks and minimize damage to habitats. Organizations can certify seafood as sustainability caught, which helps consumers identify better choices. When people choose seafood from responsible sources, it encourages fishing companies to follow sustainable practices. Consumer awareness plays an important role because businesses often respond to customers’ demands.
Education and public awareness are also important in the fight against overfishing. Many people are unaware of how serious the problem is or how their choices affect the oceans. Schools, documentaries, and social media campaigns can help spread information about the importance of protecting marine life. When people understand the issue, they are more likely to support laws and make responsible choices. Young people, especially students, can play a role by learning about ocean conservation and encouraging others to care about the environment.
Despite these efforts, preventing overfishing remains a challenge, especially in Massachusetts, where fishing has been an important part of the state’s history and economy. Coastal communities such as Cape Cod and the North Shore depend on species like cod, haddock, and lobster. However, some fish populations in Massachusetts waters have declined over the years due to heavy fishing and environmental changes. Illegal or unreported fishing can still happen, making it difficult for officials to fully control how many fish are being taken. Climate change is also affecting Massachusetts waters by warming ocean temperatures, which causes some fish to move to cooler areas farther north. These challenges make it even more important for the Massachusetts state government and federal agencies to work together with fishing communities to protect marine life and resources.
In Massachusetts, the government plays a major role in preventing overfishing through strict rules and programs. Agencies such as the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF) create fishing limits, monitor fish populations, and enforce seasonal closures to protect species when they are breeding. The state also works closely with federal organizations like the National Oceanic
and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to manage fisheries along the Atlantic coast. These efforts include tracking fishing boats, protecting important habitats, and supporting research to better understand fish populations. Continued effort and public awareness are needed to make sure fish populations in Massachusetts remain healthy for future generations. We can protect Massachusetts marine ecosystems, support sustainable fishing practices and prevent overfishing. Your actions today can ensure thriving oceans for tomorrow.
-Anthony D’aiello DRHS student
Rehoboth Town News
From the Clerk's Office
Hello All ~ Happy May! – The Spring flowers are here, birds are back, and the leaves have popped ~ thank goodness Spring has arrived! If it is May, it must be Tax Day . . . as a reminder, quarterly taxes were due Friday, May 1st ~ thank you.
Annual Town Election ~ Thank You!!! ~
Thank You, All Election Workers, Registrars, Police, Fire, Highway, Facilities Management Departments, Constables, , Rehoboth Post Office Staff, Town Clerk’s Office Staff & Voters For official results, please check the town website under the Town Clerk’s 4-7-26 Election Results webpage @ https://www.rehobothma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif4911/f/uploads/4-7-2026-annual_town_election_official_results-4-8-2026.pdf or view under news and announcements @ https://www.rehobothma. gov/home/news/4-7-2026-rehoboth-annual-town-election-official-results Congratulations to all elected candidates.
Thank you to all candidates who ran in the April 7, 2026 Annual Town Election!! Reminder: If you were elected or re-elected to a position and have not been sworn into office, please stop by the Town Clerk’s Office to take your oath of office. No elected or appointed official may take any action until they officially take their oath after being elected or appointed ~ thank you! I would personally like to thank the many people who participated in our April 7, 2026 Annual Town Election and for helping us make sure the election ran smoothly. From the Wardens, Clerks, Inspectors, Constables, Police, Fire, Highway & Facilities Management Departments, Registrars, Set-Up/Take-Down Crew, Rehoboth Post Office and Town Clerk staff, we were able to hold another successful election in our wonderful, centralized polling location in the Francis Farm Heritage Meeting Hall Building. Thank you for all your hard work. There is no way we could have an election without the wonderful help of you all ~ thank you for all you do for so many! Thank you also to Sara and Billy for the delicious Hailey’s Diner meals. Thank you all for your support, time, dedication, and true passion for assuring our elections are run safely, professionally, securely, and expeditiously. The Town of Rehoboth is truly fortunate to have the entire Election staff working on their behalf. Finally, thank you to the 1,030 (9.19%) of 11,203 voters who voted in the 4-7-2026 Annual Town Election!
What You Need To Know About Absentee Vs. Vote-By-Mail Ballot Applications
As we noticed in the Town Clerk’s Office during the past election, there seems to be a lot of confusion regarding the absentee and/or vote-by-mail application process. Below are a few facts to keep in mind.
Voters are required to file a new mailed ballot application request every calendar year. In January of each year, you may request all ballots be mailed to you for all elections scheduled from January – December of the current year by completing an Absentee or Vote-By-Mail ballot application.
• 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 OR you can Vote by Mail:
Vote by Mail Ballot Application (No excuse voting – all other voters) Application @ https://www.sec.state.ma.us/divisions/elections/download/vote-by-mail-applications/Voteby-Mail-Paper-Application-2025.pdf
Please Note: If you choose “All Elections” on your vote-by-mail or absentee application, and you are registered as an unenrolled/independent voter (an unenrolled voter is also known as “independent”; Massachusetts does not have a “independent” party) or registered in any party/political designation other than Democrat or Republican, you will need to identify on your ballot application what “Party” ballot you are requesting for any Primary Election.
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.
The Letters to the Editor 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 points of view.
Laura Schwall
June 2nd (Tuesday) Annual Town Meeting
As you may remember from 2023’s Town Meeting, the Town voted to move the Annual Town Meeting from the second Tuesday in May to the first Tuesday of June; therefore, our upcoming Town Meeting will be held on June 2, 2026 at the Francis Farm Community Complex – Heritage Meeting Hall Building, 27-Francis Farm Road. Voter check-in will begin at 6:00 PM; Town Meeting will begin at 7:00 PM. You should receive your Town Meeting warrant in the mail from the Board of Selectmen’s Office, no later than May 27, 2026.
If you have any news you would like the Moderator to share with Town Meeting on June 2nd , please send to LSchwall@RehobothMA.gov ~ thank you.
The last day for Voter Registration, to be eligible to participate in the Annual Town Meeting, will be Saturday, May 23, 2026. The Town Clerk’s Office is available from 8:00AM to 5:00PM on May 23rd to accommodate last-minute registrations. As always, if you would like to register to vote, or change your party affiliation, you may go to the Secretary of State’s Election Division any time, 24/7, by going to www.RegisterToVoteMA.com and complete the voter registration form online. However, if you were not registered by Saturday, May 23, 2026, you will not be able to vote in the June 2, 2026 Annual Town Meeting. If you would like to check your voter status (active or inactive), you may also go to: https://www.sec. state.ma.us/VoterRegistrationSearch/MyVoterRegStatus.aspx and see if your registration is active along with what precinct you vote in.
Annual Town Census Updates
The Rehoboth Annual Town Census reflects our current “unofficial” population total, which as of May 1, 2026 is 13,530. That is an increase of 326 residents over last year’s “official” population figure of 13,204. After calls to households from our Registrars, we still have 456 census forms, out of 6,022 forms that were mailed in January, which have not been returned (Precinct I = 116 non respondents; Precinct II = 119 non respondents, Precinct III = 107 and Precinct IV = 114 non-respondents). Thank you to the 5,566 households (92.43%) who have returned their 2026 Town Census forms. For the remaining 7.57%, or 456 households, please send in your census/street listing forms as soon as possible ~ thank you. I anticipate the Street Listings being available in late May for those of you who would like to purchase them for $15. Please call our office before heading up to town hall to see if the Street Listings have arrived so you don’t waste a trip. I would like to thank Assistant Town Clerks, Jennifer Hose and Kerrie Perkins, Charlotte Castro and the Registrars Helene Vitale, Jenn Moitoso and Tina LaFranchi for your help with processing the 6,022+ census forms we received to date. We all had another busy and successful Census season ~ thank you all!
Please Note: If you received a second “street listing” request from our office, the first notice was your 2026 Census mailer, which arrived in each Rehoboth household during the first week of January 2026. The census mailer arrived with the Town 2026 calendar and various inserts (dog license, septic safety reminder and Heritage Meeting Hall flyer); which was due January 31, 2026. If your census was not returned, by February, our Registrars called and left a message (LM on the 2nd notice) to please return your signed census as soon as possible. If we did not receive your completed census form in March, we mailed the 2nd request Street Listing with the Registrars comments for you to complete, sign and return. The first mailing was from our census printer, the second mailing was from the State VRIS computer, so they do look different but contain the same household information. We thank you for returning your completed census as soon as possible.
2026 Dog Licenses
Dog licenses are due and payable on April 1st of each year. Thank you to the 1,760 dog owners who have already renewed their dog’s 2026 license. Any dog license not paid by June 1st will be assessed a $15.00 per dog late fee in addition to the license fee(s). Yearly we offer dog owners a grace period to pay their dog’s licenses without charging a late fee; however, we must now impose those fees effective June 1st this year. You may renew your dog license online (https://permiteyes.us/rehoboth/publichome.php ), by mail, or in person. Currently we have 474 dogs that are unlicensed; we hope to hear from their owners soon. Reminder postcards will be sent to unlicensed dog owners mid May. If you received a postcard reminder, please renew your dog’s license as soon as possible and definitely by June 1st to avoid the late fees. Thanks so much! Anyone having questions regarding any of the above information may call the Town Clerk’s Office at 508-252-6502, X3109, X3112 or X3110 or e-mail me at LSchwall@RehobothMA.gov . In closing, Kerrie, Jenn and I wish a Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms in Rehoboth. We also wish everyone a healthy and safe Memorial Day. Reminder, the Memorial Day Parade is scheduled for Monday, May 25, 2026. The Parade will start at 10:00 AM near the Anawan School & American Legion on Bay State Road, travel through the village and end up at the Veterans’ Memorial Gazebo, Redway Plain. Hopefully by Memorial Day the weather will be rain free and absolutely perfect. Most importantly, on Memorial Day, please remember to honor all those who made the ultimate sacrifice to secure our country and protect its citizens. Please have a happy, healthy and safe month of MAY! See you at Town Meeting in June. ~ Laura ~
Nurse’s Notes, May 2026
• Blood Pressure Screening Clinic Monday’s 11:45am-1pm at the COA building at 27 Francis Farm Road
• Home visits by appointment Tuesday and Thursday afternoons
• Bereavement Support Group 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month from 9:30am-10:30am (due to vacation there will only be a May 6th meeting this month)
• Podiatry clinic May 7th from 9am-12noon. There are limited appointments so please call to book yours. The clinic runs every other month. The next clinic will be July 9th from 9a-12noon
• Healthy Living Program. The next presentation in on May7th at 10:30am in the Arcade Building at 27 Francis Farm Rd. The topic will be “Preparing for the FIFA World Cup, from your health’s perspective” Please call ahead to book a seat.
• Local camp inspections are starting. If your child will attend camp in Rehoboth this summer, please be sure your child health information is completed and returned to the camp by the stated time on the camp forms.
Be safe, be healthy and be kind!
Geri Hamel RN MSN - Public Health Nurse Town of Rehoboth, ghamel@rehobothma.gov, 508-962-4558
Rehoboth Animal Shelter News
Reynold is a recent addition to the Rehoboth Animal Shelter. He is a handsome young adult dog, mostly black with some white markings. Reynold is very friendly and loves attention. He has been neutered and vaccinated and is waiting for his new home. For more information about adoptable pets at the Rehoboth Shelter, or to report a lost or found pet, please call 508-2525421 ext. 126 and leave a message. You can also check out our pet listings at Petfinder.com.
It’s A Birthday Blizzard of Giving! Birthday Presents for Our Rehoboth Children
The Blizzard of Giving, Inc. is available all year round to help Rehoboth Children. We are here to help make your child’s birthday even more special! Please visit our website www.rehobothblizzardofgiving.org where you can access our request forms and more information. If you would like to include your child(ren) in our Birthday Blizzard list, please provide the following information:
• Parent/Guardian’s name, address, email, phone
• Child’s name, birthdate, school, grade, clothing size, gender, and general interests.
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VICTORIA DORAN
President RIAR 2013, Broker Associate Liscensed in MA & RI (401) 458-2160 Cell victoriadoran.remax@gmail.com
Thinking of Buying or Selling? The Spring Market is in Full Bloom!
AARON DORAN
Sales Associate, Liscensed in MA & RI (401) 864-1644 Cell
This information can be emailed to rehobothblizzard@gmail. com or mailed to Colleen McBride, 35 Pond Street, Rehoboth, MA 02769
To fulfill your requests, please send all the above information at least 3 weeks in advance of when you would like to receive your child’s gifts.
The Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Inc. is committed to serving our community by providing Christmas gifts, holiday support, and special occasion needs to Rehoboth residents who are facing challenging times in their lives. Donations can be made out to “Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Inc.” and mailed to: Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Attn: Cathy Edington, 61 Reservoir Ave., Rehoboth, MA 02769
Colleen McBride, Cathy Edington, and Cheryl Santos Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Inc. www.rehobothblizzardofgiving.org
Spring at the Rehoboth Food Pantry A Season of Renewal, Gratitude, and Continued Care
As we move through the spring season and begin to look toward warmer days ahead, the Rehoboth Food Pantry continues to be sustained by the incredible generosity of our community.
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Over the past few months, your kindness has made a meaningful difference—ensuring that our neighbors have access to the food and support they need. Whether through donations, food drives, or time given to help others, your compassion continues to shine.
This Month’s Special Thanks
With sincere appreciation, we recognize the many individuals and groups who have supported the Pantry:
• The Reporter Team – for their continuous support for the Pantry
• Marie Soliday – for a very generous contribution of food donations
• Kindergarten Class at Palmer River Elementary School – for collecting well over 100 items in celebration of their 100th Day of School
• Horton Estates Birthday Group – for their continued thoughtful donations
• Rehoboth Congregational Church – Mission Committee & Youth Group – for their generosity, including seasonal supplies, children’s baskets, and ongoing food and paper goods collections
• Our Lady of Mt. Carmel – St. Vincent de Paul Society – for hosting a food drive in support of the Pantry
• West Dighton Christian Church – for their steady weekly food donations
• We also extend our gratitude to all of our drop-off locations, whose partnership helps keep our shelves stocked, and to the many individuals who give quietly and consistently.
• And, as always, to our dedicated volunteers—those who continue to give their
time and energy week after week—you are the heart of what we do.
A Gentle Reminder
While we are deeply grateful for every donation, please remember that the Pantry is not staffed full-time. To ensure items remain safe and usable, we kindly ask that donations not be left outside the Pantry doors.
Instead, please use one of our convenient drop-off locations or contact us directly to arrange a pickup or scheduled drop-off. Your care helps ensure every contribution can be fully used.
Pantry Hours & Contact
Location: 51 Winthrop street (rear entrance)
Thursdays: 2:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Need assistance or want to arrange a donation? Call 508-493-1922
Confidential grocery delivery is available for residents unable to visit in person.
Drop-Off Locations
• Blanding Library – Bay State Rd.
• Land-Tek – 477 Winthrop St.
• Loraine’s Stitch ’n’ Crafts – 235 Winthrop St.
• Munroe Feed & Supply – 200 Fairview Ave.
• Harvest Tap & Table – 2685 GAR Hwy, Swansea
• Monetary Donations
• rehobothfoodpantryma.org
Or mail to: Rehoboth Food Pantry, 51 Winthrop Street, Unit 2, Rehoboth, MA 02769
We offer the following bundle of services for our clients:
Landscape Consultation & Design Services
Lawn Care Treatments
Irrigation Installation & Maintenance
Pruning/Tree Work
Green Care offers you the benefit of over
of experience to give you beauty, efficiency and enjoyment of your
space We have a fantastic selection of trees, shrubs and perennials for our Landscape Clients Please stop by or contact Green Care Landscape Professionals for more information.
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Rehoboth Land Trust News & Events
May 16, 2026 @10am-12pm –Spring Bird Walk – Reynolds Ave Conservation Area
Bring your binoculars and curiosity to our Reynolds Ave Conservation Area. May is a wonderful time to see and hear birds migrating through Rehoboth as they head north and to welcome those who will stay and nest here. Be sure to wear sturdy footwear! Download the free Merlin app on your phone beforehand and we’ll teach you how to use it. All ages welcome! This event is free, but please register by sending an email with your name, phone number, and number of people in your group to info@rehobothlandtrust.net.
May 16, 2026 @6:30pmFundamentals of Nature
Photography, Dennis GouletCarpenter Museum
Hone your camera skills with Dennis Goulet, who will share the characteristics and techniques of good nature photography. Those who attend will also be invited to a follow-up virtual presentation, featuring the opportunity to receive feedback on one of their photos. Dennis is an award-winning photographer whose images from around the world have appeared in such publications as Audubon, Sierra, and Nature’s Best Photography. Please register for this event by sending an email with your name, phone number, and number of people in your group to info@rehobothlandtrust.net.
June 14, 2026 @11:30am - Live Animal Show, Capron Park ZooGoff Hall
Kick off your summer vacation by getting up close and personal with some cool critters! The Capron Park Zoo will showcase all sorts of live creatures, including lizards, snakes, and turtles, plus small mammals like an adorable tenrec. Don’t know what a tenrec is? Stop by and find out! If the animals are up to it, you might even be able to pet some of them! Find out about the wildlife conservation programs at Capron Park Zoo, plus ways you can help protect Rehoboth wildlife.
**Both of these events are part of RLT’s 2026 Nature’s Voices Speaker Series, and are free and open to the public. This 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!
Photo Contest Ends June 30th!
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 second annual photo contest!
This is your chance to have your work featured on the puzzle design for RLT’s 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. Images with humans or human-made structures are ineligible.
Eligibility: Open to all ages and skill levels. Photos can be taken anywhere in Rehoboth, but we’d love to see pics from RLT properties!
Photo Requirements: High-resolution digital images only.
How to Enter:
• Email up to five submissions to info@rehobothlandtrust.net with the subject “RLT Photo Contest” before June 30, 2026.
• 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
By entering, you give the Rehoboth Land Trust permission to use the submitted photo in our 2026 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!
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.
Land Trust Annual Meeting
Approximately 75 residents gathered on Wednesday evening, April 29, at the Seekonk Public Library for the Seekonk Land Conservation Trust’s (SLCT) 2026 Annual Meeting. The event featured a presentation by guest speaker Rob Emlen, a retired Brown University professor, who shared insights on the historical significance and enduring craftsmanship of stone walls throughout Seekonk.
Mr. Emlen, who studies the historical landscape of rural New England, delivered a keynote presentation titled “Stone Walls of Seekonk.” His talk examined the many stone walls that wind through the wooded and open landscapes, line roadways, and mark property boundaries across town. Many of these structures date back as far as 400 years, built by early colonists as they cleared fields for farming and grazing. Most are dry walls, constructed without mortar to hold them together and were typically built waist height due to the limitations of early tools and labor. These walls have proven remarkably durable and survive as decorative historic examples — now often also recognized as property demarkations. Today, they remain a defining feature of Seekonk’s scenic and rural landscape, even as other structures have disappeared over time. Mr. Emlen’s presentation sparked strong audience interest and concluded with a lively discussion.
SLCT President Tom Webb moderated the meeting and provided an overview of the Land Trust’s accomplishments. Since its founding in 1967, SLCT has helped preserve 892 acres of land—approximately 8% of Seekonk’s total land area. These holdings include town-owned properties, land trust gifts and acquisitions, and parcels protected by agricultural and conservation restrictions. Seekonk also contains an additional nearly 200 acres preserved locally through the Audubon Society’s Caratunk Wildlife Refuge and Osamequin Farm. At the meeting, Mr. Webb presented the Mary Wilson Conservation Award to the Seekonk Scouts Troop1 and Troop 9 in recognition of their contributions to local conservation efforts. He also noted and thanked the work of Jessie Blackledge, SLCT’s Stewardship Coordinator, who manages the active recruitment and participation of our volunteers.
Residents are encouraged to get involved in ongoing stewardship initiatives and welcome to inquire about participation in serving on the SLCT Board of Trustees. Learn more about the SLCT mission and activities at www.seekonklandtrust.org .
Rob Emlen, retired Brown University professor and history enthusiast, and Tom Webb, SCLT Board President.
Honoring Veterans and Growing a Community Mission in Rehoboth
The local effort to honor veterans through Wreaths Across America at Rehoboth Village Cemetery is entering its third year, continuing to grow thanks to strong community support. Since its launch, the mission has remained simple yet deeply meaningful: to remember and honor every veteran laid to rest in Rehoboth. Each year brings new momentum, fresh ideas, and stronger connections among volunteers, supporters, and local families.
As part of the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary, this year’s efforts will expand to include honoring all of Rehoboth’s Revolutionary War soldiers, placing a wreath at the entrance of each town cemetery, and continuing the long-term goal of growing to be able to place a wreath on every veteran’s grave. In total, nearly 760 wreaths will be needed for this year’s event, including an estimated 560 veterans at Rehoboth Village Cemetery.
Returning this year is the popular “Flag a Friend” campaign, with hopes of reaching even more homes across the community. For $17, the cost of sponsoring one wreath, participants can have 12 small American flags placed in a visible location in honor of a friend, family member, neighbor, veteran, or local business. These temporary displays are respectfully placed by volunteers ahead of Memorial Day weekend and removed a few days later. A “Flag a Veteran” option is also available, and recognized veterans receive a small token of appreciation along with a thank-you sign acknowledging their service, creating a visible and heartfelt tribute across the community.
The group is also excited to participate in the Rehoboth Memorial Day Parade this year. Be sure to look for us along the parade route, complete with our signature ducks, and learn how you can sponsor a wreath and be entered into our annual YETI cooler raffle.
Community involvement remains at the heart of this mission. We are always looking for new faces, fresh ideas, and helping hands. If you’ve ever considered getting more involved, we welcome you to share your ideas and consider joining our planning committee.
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We are currently planning an upcoming fundraiser at Terry Diddle Farm and extend a heartfelt thank you to Terry Diddle for generously sharing their venue space with us. For this event, we are seeking raffle contributions, including gift certificates for products or services, experiences at local establishments, larger experiencebased items, and new items you may wish to regift.
Business Sponsorship Opportunities
Local businesses are invited to support the core mission by sponsoring wreaths and helping fund the annual wreath-laying event. Sponsorships directly support our goal of honoring every veteran in Rehoboth. If your business is interested, we would be happy to share available sponsorship opportunities and associated benefits.
Wreath sponsorships are accepted year-round and can be made at www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/NH0043P.
With each passing year, this mission continues to grow—driven by remembrance, gratitude, and community spirit.
For more information or to get involved: Visit: www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/NH0043P
Email: waapoppyscrew@gmail.com (for inquiries and Flag a Friend/ Veteran nominations)
Remember
Years ago, a telegram came, Breaking the hearts of a mother and dad, Their son killed in action over in France, The one, only child that they had; A Korean Veteran was honored, Shot down at age twenty-one, His young widow cries at his gravesite, To the sound ot discharging guns; A four old boy, his dad killed in Vietnam, Won’t have his dad through the years as he grows,
He bravely salutes the flag-covered coffin, While in the stillness, a bugler’s “Taps” blows;
She’s only thirteen with a floral bouquet, For a brother lost in Desert Storm, He was her hero, he always was there, For a sister who now feels forlorn; It’s Memorial Day and a large family gathers, To honor a Nurse who never came back, She was so proud of the service she gave, In the heat and the sands of Iraq; A young man stands apart from the others, He’s doing the best that he can, At the military service for a good friend, Whose life ended in Afghanistan; Down through the years our country has lost, Countless heroes who were family or friends, Their sacrifice, totally selfless, The fight for freedom seems never to end; Today is a day to remember, Our Fallen with grateful thanksgiving, Because of these Veterans, we remain free, We owe them the lives we are living; And, as we remember them this Memorial Day,
Let’s also ask God to be kind, Though we’ll never forget all the Veterans who died, Remember, too, loved ones they left behind.
-by Margie Riesk
Lesniak, Morse, Win School Committee Seats
By Joe Siegel
Lori Lesniak and Aaron Morse won two three year seats on the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Committee in April's Town Election. 1,030 voters, representing 9 percent of the town’s 11,203 voters, cast ballots.
Lesniak, a political newcomer, was the top vote getter with 638. Morse, an incumbent, received 514 votes. Richard Barrett, another incumbent, trailed with 440 votes.
Lesniak, who holds a degree in Accounting, is on the board for SEPAC (Special Education Parent Advisory Council) and the district’s Wellness Committee.
“I will be an active and present participant at the school committee meetings,” Lesniak said at last month’s Meet the Candidates forum.
All the other winners faced no opposition.
• Robert Johnson and Lenny Mills won re-election to the Board of Selectmen for three year terms.
• Paul Jacques was elected to a five year term on the Housing Authority.
• Lisa M. Halajko was elected to a five year term on the Park Commission.
• Incumbent William Cute won re-election to a one year term as Moderator.
• Riccardo Binetti won a three year term on the Board of Assessors.
• Patrick Matthew Landry won a five year term on the Planning Board.
• Gary Allen Zimmer won for Constable. The term is three years.
• Katie E. Eyer and Patricia Ann Vadnais won three year terms on the Water Commission.
The Collins Report on Rehoboth Employee Compensation
By Joe Siegel
The Edward Collins, Jr. Center for Public Management was hired to evaluate the workings of town government in Rehoboth. Last June, the report was completed.
The Classification and Compensation Study noted Rehoboth’s rural qualities: “One of the unique challenges of operating in a rural setting is the significant variation in community size, which directly affects available resources and staffing capacity. While this doesn’t necessarily alter the market value of specific roles, it does complicate direct comparisons. In smaller towns like Rehoboth, employees often have a different volume of workload and different essential functions compared to their counterparts in larger, more robust municipalities, even though the position titles are the same.”
“The analysis of the market data against Rehoboth revealed that the Town’s compensation was below the maximum rates of the
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labor market. However, taking into consideration that Rehoboth does not have pay ranges, it is incorrect to say the pay is “below” the market. The current rate of most positions falls within the labor market survey range. A small number of positions, primarily in specialized or technical fields, currently fall below market averages. These roles are in particularly high demand across the state, which has driven up average wages significantly.”
“We are confident that the recommended position descriptions, along with the proposed classification and compensation plan, will provide a strong foundation to support the Town’s workforce for many years to come,” the report noted. “We are grateful to the Select Board Members, and the Interim Director of Finance and Compliance, Sue Pimental, who assisted in the facilitation of this project. We believe the recommended position descriptions and recommended classification and compensation plan will serve the Town well for many years to come.”
The Board of Selectmen voted last month to combine the roles of the Town Administrator and the Director of Finance into a new position.
“We concluded there were deficiencies in the contract for Town Administrator,” Chairman Skip Vadnais explained. “It did not include long-term planning, budget reviews, investment oversight, financial analysis, etc.”
Town Administrator Deborah Arruda’s contract expires on June 30, along with Pimental’s contract.
Selectman David Pereira and Selectman George Solas will be scheduling interviews for the new position.
School Committee Splits on Vice Chair
By Joe Siegel
The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Committee were divided over who to elect as their Vice Chair at their April 28 meeting. Chris Andrade and Aaron Morse have switched the Chair and Vice Chair positions for the last five years.
Andrade, the vice-chair of the committee, was elected as the Chair.
Morse and Joe Luca were nominated to serve as vice-chair. There were two votes held, both with six in favor of Morse and four in favor of Luca.
However, seven votes are required to elect a vice-chair.
Morse explained he wanted to “continue the continuity of leadership that’s been working really well with (Superintendent Bill Runey) and his team. Chris and I work well together and I think my record speaks for itself.”
Luca believed the committee had been “stagnant” and wanted the committee to have the ability “to grow and move forward and branch out” with new leadership.
Luca was elected as Secretary on a 9 to 1 vote and later withdrew his nomination as Vice Chair. “I don’t want to see this fracture our committee any further,” Luca said. “I don’t see anyone changing their mind on either side.”
At the end of the meeting, Morse was elected by a vote of eight to two. Luca and Eliza Couture were in opposition.
Before the final vote, Runey had praised Morse and urged the committee to resolve the matter before the meeting was over.
“I value my relationship with all 10 of you,” Runey said. “I would really encourage you to think this through tonight because I think the closure and going on to continue to do the good work we’ve been doing as a unit is extremely important.”
Rehoboth Fire Chief Bids Farewell
By Joe Siegel
Fire Chief Mark Haskell, whose employment was terminated by the Board of Selectmen on April 21, left a goodbye message on the Fire Department’s Facebook page Thursday.
Haskell was placed on paid administrative leave by the Board of Selectmen until he receives his final paycheck.
“While this decision was made by the town, I want to be clear that I am disappointed by the decision of the Board of Selectmen. I harbor no ill will toward anyone,” Haskell wrote. “My service to this community has always been, and will always remain, a point of pride. I accepted the responsibility of protecting lives and property with honor, and I have never taken that trust lightly.”
“Though I no longer wear the title, I will always be a neighbor, a friend, and someone who cares deeply about the safety and wellbeing of this town. Thank you for standing beside me when it would have been easier to stay silent. I am humbled and forever grateful. If I was afforded the opportunity to return as the Chief, I would start back today.”
“I would like to finally thank the Firefighters of the Rehoboth Fire Department. Their support has been overwhelming. I knew we had a department of loyal and hardworking Firefighters; I did not realize the support I had as their Chief. The text messages and phone calls asking how I’m doing, how I’m feeling, what I’m thinking and what I plan do next has been very emotional. They understand I had their back; I had their safety and their wellbeing as my number one priority. If I could apologize to each and every one of them I would. Hopefully this letter lets them all know how I think of them all.”
Haskell had attended a recent Planning Board meeting to discuss a solar farm which abuts his property on Pond Street. The topic was not on the agenda for that meeting. At the conclusion of the meeting, Haskell got up from his seat in the audience, identified himself as the Fire Chief, and asked about the solar project. A video of the meeting was shown to the Board of Selectmen.
The town’s legal counsel insisted that under state law, a town employee is prohibited from participating in a discussion on a matter in which they have a financial interest. Haskell’s “ownership of an abutting property” constituted a financial interest in the solar project.
Haskell had previously served as Assistant Fire Chief. Last October, Haskell replaced Chief Frank Barresi, who retired after serving in the department for 38 years.
New Rehoboth Fire Chief Appointed
By Joe Siegel
Peter Graves was appointed to serve as the new Rehoboth Fire Chief at Monday’s Board of Selectmen meeting.
Graves, the Captain of North Station, replaces Mark Haskell, who was terminated by the board on April 21. The reason cited was a dispute over a solar farm project located next to Haskell’s home.
Haskell had previously served as Assistant Fire Chief. Last October, Haskell replaced Chief Frank Barresi, who retired after serving in the department for 38 years.
“We want to see this department run smoothly,” said Selectman Rob Johnson, who interviewed three candidates for the position.
“I look forward to the future of this fire department,” Graves said.
Baressi was appointed to serve as a consultant for the board and will assist Graves in the operations of the department.
Rehoboth Council on Aging
Book Club
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
Breakfast
Mon / Wed / Fri From 8:30-10
Lunch
Mon / Wed @ Noon. Come join us
Basket Weaving Class
Monday May 11th
Please sign up. $50.00. Limited seating
Thomas Hoye, Jr Register Of Probate Estate Planning
Thursday May 21st @ 10:00
Memorial Day Celebration
Wednesday May 27th Noon-2:00pm
Piano Serenade
Fridays 10:30 - 11:00
Russell Raiche will be playing the piano for us
The First Monday of Month at 10:00 Held in the Arcade
Join Our Walking Club
Mon-Wed-Friday 10:00AM
NEW Start time 10:00. Please join our email list for inclement weather closings
Join our Email List
Updates during the month
COAmail@rehobothma.gov
Please also find us at https://www.rehobothma.gov/council-aging-0
Craft Supplies Needed
We have Paper Crafting Class and a Jewelry/ Resin Making. We can always use extra supplies. Scrapbooking, Cricut Supplies, die cuts, embossing folders. Jewelry making and resin supplies. We are in need of cotton, flannel, and fleece fabric for sewing projects. We are accepting yarn donations for hats & blankets. Your donations are greatly appreciated
Meals on Wheels:
Please contact Bristol Elders, Inc. at (508) 675-2101 for information on the Meals on Wheels program.
ACTIVITIES
Mondays
8:30-10 BREAKFAST
9:00 Barre Class $3.00 Helps with balance, strength, and posture
10:00 Walking Club
10:00 Cornhole Toss
10:00 Interval Fitness (NEW) $3.00
Timed intervals for fitness and rest focus on strength, balance, cardio, and a relaxing stretch at the end. Use of various props. All fitness levels welcome
As always, all pricing is a suggested donation. Please sign up for Lunch ahead of time. This helps Chef Chico plan meals
Rehoboth Public Health Nurse
Geraldine Hamel, RN MSN: Monday through Thursday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. 508-252-5947
Stephanie Reis, RN BSN: 508-252-6052 ext. 3128
Offering multiple medical services for our Rehoboth citizens: Home Visits, Vaccinations. Support groups: Bereavement, Caregiver Assistance, Dementia Support and more
• Wellness Clinic
• Podiatry Clinic: Last Thursday of the month
• Blood Pressures & Glucose Screenings
Please contact Geri Hamel for more information on these services.
Rehoboth Council on Aging
A Municipal Department of the Town Mission:
The Rehoboth Senior Center’s mission is to develop and provide programs, opportunities, and resources to enrich the social, emotional, physical, mental, and economic well-being of Rehoboth’s elder citizens.
The Rehoboth Senior Center shall serve as a community focal point and an inclusive support system where Rehoboth’s elder citizens:
• Can engage in leisure, wellness, educational, and social programs that promote an enhanced quality of life and social-emotional 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.
Rehoboth Ramblings
By Leslie Patterson
Around the Moon & Back to Earth
Like a lot of people, I was glued to the TV to watch the Artemis II liftoff, then watching the astronauts completing their chores (while that jar of Nutella floated by them; glad they had some treats way out there in space). Most thrilling of all was watching the safe return and splash down near San Diego after their long trip around the moon. That was certainly the longest trip from Florida to California that anyone has ever taken.
Like most people too, I enjoyed watching good news for a change, even though my mind kept playing that line from “The Eve of Destruction” which goes: “You may leave here for four days in space but when you return it’s the same old place.” Ain’t that the truth! The lyrics to this gloom-and-doom hit from 60 years ago sadly seem even more relevant in our world now.
All the more reason to celebrate good news, with the added realization that bad news about a space flight is always a possibility. How brave, intelligent, and calm an astronaut has to be. And how precise and perfect all the plans have to be. As a confirmed claustrophobic, I am amazed that there are people who can carry out such demanding missions in such a confined space for long periods of time. I don’t even like to sit in a window seat on a plane. I like the view but not the confined feeling, even for a short while.
The NOVA program on PBS a while ago about building the James Webb Telescope was another “how do they do that?” moment. No astronaut lives were risked in that mission but the precision involved in its design is almost unbelievable. One tiny error and billions of dollars and untold hours of preparation and work would be lost. Whew! I’m glad some people can handle pressure like that. Also, breath-taking and mind-boggling images sent back by this telescope and the Hubble Telescope before it give a whole new meaning to the phrase “out of this world”. These astounding images from space call to mind words from the old hymn “infinite thy vast domain”.
The Artemis II astronauts emphasized how in awe they were, looking at Earth from space, and the importance of taking care of our home planet. Another person who has spent his life trying to get this message across is no astronaut but the British broadcaster and national treasure Sir David Attenborough, who as of this writing is about to turn 100.
Though he may not be traveling to distant jungles or the Arctic any more, he can find lots of nature to observe right on his doorstep in England. Praise also goes to his many camera men and women over the years who have captured such fascinating images (though I always have to fast-forward past the scenes with snakes. We all have our limits.)
Along with the late Jane Goodall, who lived to be 91, Sir David’s long life shows that, unlike that grim old saying, the good do not necessarily die young. After his early years bringing films about exotic creatures to the general public, he has spent his later years devoted to sounding the alarm, through his always interesting nature programs, on the environmental dangers we are facing and the importance of preserving our home on Earth, including these thoughts:
“It seems to me that the natural world is the greatest source of excitement; the greatest source of visual beauty; the greatest source of intellectual interest. It is the greatest source of so much in life that makes life worth living.”
“This is not about saving our planet, it’s about saving ourselves”. “We need to stop being apart from nature and learn, again, how to be a part of nature.”
Meanwhile, back at home, on our little patch of Earth, we do what we can for the environment. It can be as simple as enjoying all the birds and other interesting creatures that live in our town (I’m waiting for the hummingbirds to return), to simple acts like keeping our streets clean. Appreciation goes to everyone who filled those big red bags with roadside trash this past month. It would be a better world if people didn’t litter, but we are realists and we do what we can.
The Seekonk Scene
From the Town Clerk’s Office
Who You Hire Matters!
The month of May brings longer, warmer days. For some of us, that may mean getting outside a little more often. If you haven’t tried one of our walking trails, spring is a great time to explore them. The spring storybook, Crinkleroots, Guide to Animal Habitats, by Jim Arnosky was recently added to the Gammino Pond Trail.
May is also a time to for us to remember and honor the men and women who had the courage, bravery, and selflessness that helped shape our nation’s history. Please join us in taking a moment to remember and to honor those who gave their lives for our freedom.
Buying or selling a home is one of the big decisions you’ll make.
In observance of Memorial Day, the Town Offices will be closed on Monday, May 25th. We wish you a meaningful day of reflection, gratitude, and community.
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We hope to see you there. It is a wonderful parade put on by an incredible group of dedicated individuals.
The Seekonk Memorial Day Parade is scheduled on Satur day, May 23, 2026. The parade route begins at Seekonk High School at 10:00AM and ends at the Hurley Middle School. A Memorial Day ceremony will be held at the Seekonk Veterans Memorial Park immediately following the conclusion of the parade.
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Annual Spring Town Meeting
Strategic negotiatio
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May 11, 2026 @ 6:00pm
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Market expertise
Important- The Start Time Has Changed To 6:00pm
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Clear communicatio
The Annual Spring Town meeting will be held on May 11th at 6:00PM in the auditorium at the Seekonk High School. Check-in begins at 5:00PM.
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The warrant is posted on the town’s website (www.seekonk-ma. gov) and Facebook page. Please come out, get involved, and participate in this important town meeting.
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The Seekonk High School Key
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Kristen L’Heureux
Shandra Ferreira
ensure proper staffing. Deadline to sign up is Sunday, May 10th at 10:00PM. No walk-ins will be allowed. You can sign up at https:// forms.gle/g9CGmwyr1oUKDGsL9. If you have any questions, please contact Deanna Marinucci at marinuccid@seekonkschools. org
Drop-Off Begins: 5:45 PM
Check-In Location: Elevator Lobby (outside the library)
Official Results From the April 7, 2025
Annual Town Election
Congratulations to all those who won their respective seat and thank you to all the individuals who ran for a position. The election process is not easy. Those who make the choice to run for an elected position put themselves out there publicly and it’s not easy. Thank you for your commitment and willingness to serve the town. It is recognized and appreciated.
Number of Eligible Voters: 12,775
Total Votes Cast: 1,321
Voter Turnout Percentage: 10.34%
PRECINCTS: 1 – 266; 2 - 430; 3 - 309; 4 - 316;
• Board of Assessors – Janet Parker
• Board of Library Trustees – Fred Slemon, Jr. and Catherine Capello
• Planning Board – Sandra Escaler
• School Committee – Andrew Tessier
• Select Board – Robert Archambault and Elizabeth Elmasian
• Town Clerk – Kristen L’Heureux
• Town Moderator – Michael Durkey
• Water Commissioner – Robert Stoops
If you would like to see the official tally sheet, please go to the Town Clerk’s page under the Elections & Voting section or go to https://www.seekonk-ma.gov/288/Elections-Voting
I want to take this opportunity to personally thank the voters of Seekonk for the opportunity to serve as your Town Clerk for the next three years. To those who voted for me, thank you for your confidence in my knowledge and abilities. To all the candidates who ran in the election, I thank you for your courage and commitment to seek public office and serve the residents of Seekonk.
Dog Licenses & Town Census Now Past Due Annual Town Census
Thank you for all those who have returned their 2026 Town Census/Street Listing form. To date, we have received and processed 5,516 households. There are 1,510 census forms that still need to be returned (Precinct 1=356; Precinct 2=376; Precinct 3=425 and Precinct 4=353).
Failure to respond to the census may result in an interruption in voter status, becoming an inactive voter, and being removed from the active voting list. As a reminder, the census does not register you to vote. If you are a registered voter, there will be a party affiliation by your name (i.e. D, R, U, etc.). Updates to your party affiliation can be made in person at our office or by going online to https://www.sec.state.ma.us/OVR/.
Dog Licensing
DOG TAGS EXPIRED MARCH 31st.
Thank you for all those who applied for their dog licenses. To date, we have processed 1,145 dog license applications.
All dog licensing now requires online registration. Payments can still be made inperson or by mail, but the licensing process requires an online registration. If you have any difficulty completing your application online, please call us and we are happy to walk you through the process over the phone OR you can stop by our office with your valid rabies certificate and valid email address, and we will assist you at our kiosk station. Failure to comply will result in issuance of MGL violation & fine. If your license remains delinquent after May 31st, a late fee of $25 per dog will also apply.
Whether you are new to the Town of Seekonk or have been part of our community for many years, we’d like to tell you or remind you about the property tax exemption programs that may be available to you.
Each program has specific eligibility requirements. We ask that you review the details carefully.
Applications and additional information can be found on the under Board of Assessors page on the town’s website at https://www. seekonk-ma.gov/314/Board-of-Assessors. Please note all exemption applications must be filed annually by the April 1st deadline.
If you feel that you may be over the eligibility threshold this year, but your situation could change in the future, we maintain a reminder log and would be happy to notify you when it’s time to reapply for any exemption that may benefit you. This can be especially helpful for seniors and others whose financial circumstances may change from year to year.
For any questions or assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact the Assessor’s Office. Their staff is always happy to guide you through the process.
Tax Collector’s Reminders
If you have any questions concerning any of the following, please call the tax collector’s office directly at 508-336-2930.
Did you know the Registry of Motor Vehicles issues motor vehicle excise tax bills throughout the year? The majority are issued in February and due in March (tax commitment #1-2026). If you have not received your bill by March 1st please contact the Tax Collector’s Office at 508-336-2930.
If you no longer have the vehicle, please see the reverse side of the excise tax bill for instructions and provide the information to the Tax Assessor’s Office.
• Motor Vehicle Excise Tax commitment #7 (2025) is now on demand and was due April 28th
• Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Commitment #1 (2026) is now on demand and was due April 28th
• Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Commitment #2 (2026) was issued April 7th and due May 7th
• Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Commitment #8 (2026) was issued April 7th and due May 7th
FY 26 Disposal Bills were mailed on September 18, 2025 and were due October 21, 2025 ($315.00 per unit). Demand notices were mailed November 18th and were due December 2nd. For your updated balance, please contact the collector’s office.
Real Estate and Personal Property Taxes: Further collection notices will be issued for any unpaid Fiscal Year 2025 balances.
Fiscal Year 2026 Preliminary Real Estate and Personal Property Tax Bills were mailed the first week in July.
The first quarter payment was due by August 4, 2025. The second quarter was due by November 3, 2025.
Actual Real Estate and Personal Property Tax Bills were mailed at the end of December.
The third quarter was due February 2nd and fourth will be due May 4th
If you are wondering how much you paid in real estate taxes last year, the information can be found on the Collector’s webpage on the Town’s website under “How Much Did I Pay in Real Estate Taxes Last Year.”
Please note: The Tax Collector’s office does NOT process the Water Department’s bills and cannot accept payments for the Water District. Please mail or drop off your payment to Seekonk Water District, 50 Water Lane, Seekonk, MA 02771
Board, Commission, and Committee
Opportunities
Our town boards, committees, and commissions provide residents the opportunity to work with the town in areas that interest them. Please consider volunteering your time and talent to sit on one of our boards and committees. Please consider filling out a talent bank form to sit on one of our board or committees. You can complete a form online at https://www.seekonk-ma.gov/FormCenter/ Administration-10/Talent-Bank-Form-244, request one via email at townclerk@seekonk-ma.gov, or pick one up at either the Town Clerk’s Office or Town Administrator’s Office.
Capital Improvement Committee is a seven-member committee appointed to a three-year term. Capital Projects are defined as projects or assets that cost at least $5,000 and have a useful life of at least 5 years. In the fall, the Capital Improvement Committee will call Department Heads to review their capital project requests for the upcoming fiscal year. After the reviews are completed the CIC rates and ranks each project based on Department priority, budget impact, public safety, equipment replacement, efficiency, useful life, cost reduction, benefit to the Town and alignment with the Master Plan. The goal is to provide an impartial perspective for the Board of Selectmen and Town Administrator as they develop
a balanced budget for the next fiscal year. Currently, there are 5 vacancies for this committee.
Commission on Disability includes participation of people with disabilities to (1) research local problems of people with disabilities; (2) advise and assist municipal officials and employees in ensuring compliance with state and federal laws and regulations that affect people with disabilities; (3) coordinate or carry out programs designed to meet the problems of people with disabilities in coordination with programs of the Massachusetts office on disability; (4) review and make recommendations about policies, procedures, services, activities and facilities of departments, boards and agencies of said city or town as they affect people with disabilities; (5) provide information, referrals, guidance and technical assistance to individuals, public agencies, businesses and organizations in all matters pertaining to disability; (6) coordinate activities of other local groups organized for similar purposes. For more information, please refer to MGL Chapter 40, §8J or contact our office. There are up to 12 seats available.
Cultural Council is a group of interested residents whose purpose is to support community-based projects in the arts, humanities, and interpretive sciences. Currently, there are 2 vacancies for this committee.
Economic Development Committee involves in the development and review of the Town’s long-term economic development plans and works on marketing the Town. They also will promote new business development and support existing businesses in Town. There are 5 vacancies on this committee.
Energy Committee provides advice to the Select Board on policies and programs that may help reduce the town’s “carbon footprint”; preserve and enhance Seekonk’s environment, natural resources, and quality of life for its residents and businesses; and to provide leadership, education, and outreach to the public. There are 4 vacancies on this committee.
Finance Committee oversees and advises on the town’s financial matters. The committee reviews the proposed budget for the coming fiscal year prior to the Annual Town Meeting. The committee reviews, in detail, all monetary proposals to be brought forward at the Town Meeting and provide recommendations on each article for the benefit of the voters. There is 1 vacancy on this committee.
Historical Committee prepares and distributes publications, make recommendations to the selectmen, enter into contracts, and essentially develop an effective local program for preservation that is based on the needs and desires of our community. There are 2 vacancies for this committee.
Parks & Recreation is an advisory committee that works with the Parks and Recreation Coordinator to help gather ideas for new programing. They also help with the development of the town’s acquisitions and recreational areas. The committee, along with the coordinator, holds monthly meetings with the goal of developing diverse services and programs for the community and to promote citizen involvement. There is 1 vacancy for this committee.
Recycling Committee helps coordinate and implement various sustainability programs in town-including recycling education, food waste composting, reducing waste by switching to reusable products, rain barrels for
water and reducing
patrol for cleaning up our streets, and special recycling programs for hard to recycle products. There are 2 vacancies for this committee.
Zoning Board of Appeals adopts rules, not inconsistent with the provisions of the zoning ordinance or by-law for the conduct of its business and for purposes of this chapter and shall file a copy of said rules with the city or town clerk. There is currently 1 alternate position available.
We hope you have a wonderful month. 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 Shandra
Seekonk Fire Museum 2026 Monthly Opening Dates
NOON - 2 PM
May 16 - June 20 - July 18 - August 15 - September 19
We thank you for the continued support of the Seekonk Fire Museum. We rely on your gracious donations to continue to honor and support the members and memories of Fire, Police and EMS departments throughout our country!
Donations are always appreciated and can be mailed to:
Central Volunteer Fire Association/Seekonk Fire Museum 211 Newman Avenue Seekonk, MA 02771
The CVFA is a 501c3 non-profit Association.
Seekonk Animal Shelter News Meet Freckles!
He is a very sweet 6½ year old, male cattle dog/lab type mix with a heart full of love! Sadly, he came to us after his owner passed away, and now he’s hoping to find a new person to call his own.
Freckles is a laid back, gentle boy who enjoys the simple things in life… playing with his toys, going for walks, snuggling and spending time with his humans! He is house trained, vaccinated, and does well with the other dogs at the shelter.
Freckles is timid and would do best in a quiet home with no children. He needs a patient, understanding adopter who will give him time to settle in, and in return, he’ll be your most loyal companion.
If you’re looking for a calm, loving dog to share your walks, your couch and your heart, Freckles may be the perfect match. Call the Seekonk Animal Shelter at 508-336-6663 to schedule a time to meet him!
If you haven’t upgraded your heating and cooling equipment in the past 15 years, now might be the right time to invest in all-in-one technology to heat and cool your home. High-efficiency heat pumps offer both heating and cooling capabilities, making them a smart option for homeowners looking to modernize their systems and reduce energy costs.
Special thanks to Manager Paula Edwards, her Team and Patrons of Speedway located at 1502 Newman Avenue (Baker’s Corner), Seekonk for the donation of 60 frozen pizzas! The donation was the result of a promotion celebrating Pi Day which is celebrated annually on March 14th (3/14). It is a day to commemorate the mathematical constant pi (π). Pi is the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter, approximately equal to 3.14159. It’s celebrated because the date 3/14 directly corresponds to the first three digits of pi.). What better way to celebrate than with a pizza pi !
Your charitable donation brought joy to our Neighbors whom we are blessed to serve! Thank you so very much!
Lucky’s Pub is Caring and Sharing with Their Neighbors
Mike Tortolani (right) presents a check for $750 from Lucky’s Pub to Ellen Hindle and Gerry McCabe of Doorways.
For the 4th year in a row, Lucky’s Pub in East Providence has made a Christmas contribution to food pantries in Seekonk and East Providence to help support their neighbors in need. Over the course of those four years, Billy Lewis and Kevin Costa, the proprietors of Lucky’s Pub, have contributed over $7,000 to Doorways and an equal amount to food pantries in their hometown. Their generosity has helped to fill the cupboards of a great many homes in our town, and the need is growing. Doorways wishes to thank Billy & Kevin, and all the many other small business owners who support us, for playing such a vital role in making our community a caring place to live. God bless them!
Paula Edwards
Ellen Hindle and Gerry McCabe with Mike Tortolani
*Sustainable Seekonk*
By Christine Zadykovich, Recycling Coordinator @ Seekonk DPW 508-336-7407
The Seekonk Recycling Committee would like to remind residents of all the great recycling and sustainability programs and resources we have available in town:
Shred Day at Town Hall: The Recycling Committee & Seekonk Public Library are partnering again to host an annual shred day for your confidential papers. This event will be held at the Town Hall 100 Peck St on Saturday June 6th from 9am-noon, see website for registration and more information. www.SeekonkPL.org
Interested in Recycling or Sustainability? We’re looking for Committee Members! There are two open seats on the Recycling Committee, if interested please submit a talent bank form on www.Seekonk-MA.gov
Second Saturdays @ Special Recycling Shed! The Special Recycling Shed at TARF is open ONLY on the 2nd Saturday of each month 8AM-12PM, and accepts anti-freeze, all light bulbs, all batteries, all mercury items, radioactive smoke/carbon detectors, ink/toner cartridges and string lights & extension cords - free of charge. Solar panels & EMPTY propane tanks/fire extinguishers (remove all plastic parts) w/blue $10 bulky stickers as well.
Seekonk Transfer Station/TARF (351 Fall River Ave) open year-round Mon-Thu 7am3pm and Fri 6:15-9:45am (Sat hours vary seasonally-check website or call) for drop off of yard waste (leaves, grass, twigs). Bulky Waste Pass Days end for FY26 on May 9, and will start back up in July for FY27. Passes are $30 for FY26 and must be purchased at the DPW offices. FY27 passes cannot be sold until July 1st.
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 furniture and household items, 3rd Tues for metal/electronics, & 3rd Weds for mattresses/ boxsprings. There is also a mail in form available online if you’re unable to come into the office during office hours. www.SeekonkMA.gov
Don’t Trash It! Consider donating items still usable-post a free CURB ALERT on social media, or search donation near me for pickup if you can’t drop off at any local resource like Savers, Goodwill, 4 Echoes or Angel’s Care Closet. If items are broken/no longer usable, pick up a special recycling packet at DPW or town website for FREE recycling resources-especially for electronics which contain valuable materials that can be reused/recycled when handled properly.
Recycling Tip of The Month: Iced Coffee Cups are recyclable in your curbside bins-remove the straw, empty any ice/liquids, and put the lid back on. Plastic straws cannot go in your curbside binsbut we are still accepting them in the Terracycle box at DPW until full. Recycling Committee also has reusable straws available free of charge!
*Please remember to recycle right, and…. Reduce-Reuse-Recycle (in THAT order!)*
BI-STATE PEST CONTROL
Bristol County Savings Bank Breaks Ground On New Seekonk Branch
Ceremony marks Bank’s 17th location and investment in the Seekonk community.
Bristol County Savings Bank celebrated the future of local banking in Seekonk on Friday, April 24, with a groundbreaking ceremony for its newest branch, a free-standing location in the new Whole Foods Plaza at 940 Fall River Avenue.
Expected to open this fall, the new branch will become the Bank’s 17th location and further expand Bristol County Savings Bank’s presence in southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island. The branch will be located in one of the region’s most prominent new commercial developments, which is also home to the newly opened TownePlace Suites by Marriott.
Bank leaders, project partners, community members, Seekonk town officials, State Representative Steven Howitt, and State Senator Kelly Dooner attended the ceremony.
“This is more than a groundbreaking for a new building — it’s a major milestone in our commitment to Seekonk,” said Tim Chaves, Chief Revenue Officer at Bristol County Savings Bank. “We have believed in this development for years, and we’re thrilled that Bristol County Savings Bank will now have a permanent home here as part of what is becoming a premier destination for southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island.”
Chaves noted that the Bank’s connection to the site dates back several years, including its role in financing construction within the broader development. He also thanked David Darling and The Darling Group for the opportunity to bring the Bank to Seekonk in a premium location as part of Darling’s development of The Black Goose Market Place.
During the ceremony, John Silva, President and CEO of Bristol County Savings Bank, emphasized that the new branch represents far more than physical expansion.
“To us, today is not just about turning over a bit of soil,” Silva said. “It’s about laying the foundation for a long-term commitment to the town of Seekonk, to its residents and to the local businesses that help it thrive.”
Silva said the new location reflects the Bank’s core philosophy of community banking.
“At its core, banking is about trust,” he said. “When someone is buying a home, starting a business, navigating a challenge, or planning for the future, they deserve a partner who understands not just the numbers, but the people part as well. We believe in local banking — where decisions are made close to home and where the bank is part of the fabric of the community.”
The free-standing branch is being designed with that communitycentered approach in mind and will support the Bank’s mission of delivering personal service and local decision-making to customers across the region.
Silva also recognized Francine Ferguson, First Senior Vice President of Retail Banking, for her leadership in the development of the new branch, as well as Paul Lacey, Vice President and Head of Facilities, for leading the construction effort.
Additional project partners recognized during the ceremony included DJSA Architects, led by Dennis Swart; Southcoast Development, led by Mickey Higgins; and The Vertex Companies, represented by Bryan Jarvis, Carly Collamore, and Steve Kirby.
Also in attendance were members of the Seekonk Select Board, including Gary Sagar, Robert Archambault, and Elizabeth Elmasian; Town Treasurer Christine DeFontes; Assistant Town Treasurer Tracy Jamieson; and Mike O’Sullivan, CEO of the One SouthCoast Chamber.
“As we pick up the shovels, we do so with a clear sense of purpose,” Silva said. “We are not just building a branch — we are building relationships that will last for many years to come.”
For Bristol County Savings Bank, the April 24 ceremony marked both a celebration of growth and the beginning of a deeper investment in the Seekonk community.
Bristol County Savings Bank Background Information: Bristol County Savings Bank, a Massachusetts chartered bank and wholly-owned subsidiary of Beacon Bancorp, is a full-service banking institution with approximately $3.1 billion in assets. Founded in 1846, the Bank serves individuals, businesses, municipalities, and non-profit organizations throughout Southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island. The Bank’s Main Office and Corporate Headquarters are located on Broadway in Taunton, Massachusetts. For more information on Bristol County Savings Bank, visit www.bristolcountysavings.com.
Investment and Insurance Products are: Not FDIC Insured – No Bank Guarantee – May Lose Value – Not a Bank Deposit – Not insured by any Federal Government Agency
NMLS #484626
Elizabeth A. Elmasian
Attorney and Counselor
at Law
Specializing in Wills, Probate, Personal Injury, Family Court, & other Civil Matters
478 Broadway Providence, RI 02909
Phone: (401) 808-6311
Elizabeth A. Elmasian
Fax: (401) 274-2480
elizabeth.elmasian@gmail.com
Attorney and Counselor at Law 478 Broadway, Providence, RI 02909
LICENSED IN RI & MA
Phone: (401)808-6311 • Fax: (401) 274-2480
elizabeth.elmasian@gmail.com
LICENSED IN RI & MA
Bristol County Savings Bank held a groundbreaking ceremony for its new Seekonk branch office in the new Whole Foods Plaza at 940 Fall River Avenue (Rt 6). Pictured (from left to right) are: Dennis Leahy, 1st EVP & Chief Operating Officer, Bristol County Savings Bank; Kelly A. Dooner, State Senator; John Silva, President & CEO, Bristol County Savings Bank; Steven Howitt, State Representative; and Gary Sagar, Chairperson, Town of Seekonk Selectboard.
Seaconke: The First Frontier Part II
By Michael Markley
Discovery
On Thursday, 21 April 1524 the Old World met the New World, and for the Wampanoag modern time began. Giovanni da Verrazzano, sailing on the Delphina, “dropped anchor in Newport Harbor”. The Delphina was approached by Islanders and two kings “of goodly stature and shape as is possible.” Verrazzano and his men stayed in Narragansett Bay for 15 days. They traded with the Wampanoag, shared food, and explored the coast and points inland. Verrazzano writes that he and his men “found the country as pleasant as possible to conceive, adapted to cultivation of every kind.” Verrazzano goes on to note in his ships log “there are open plains twenty five or thirty leagues in extent, entirely free of trees or other hindrances, and so great in fertility, that whatever is sown there will yield and excellent crop.”
Verrazzano’s “Open Plains” assuredly was the Seaconke plain because there is no other like it in all Southern New England. Post Ice age the Laurentide Ice Sheet left a barren scar in varying degrees of width along the Eastern shore of Narraganset Bay and north to almost southern New Hampshire.
Verrazzano’s voyage is considered the “Old Worlds” first contact with the Wampanoag. His little time spent in the bay introduced Wampanoag to written language, modern history, finished goods, trade, and modern times.
Exploiters
During the period of the next one hundred years Portuguese and Spanish fished the Wampanoag territorial waters. Explorers turned exploiters as they mapped, traded, looted and enslaved Wampanoag citizens. The visitors brought with them finished European goods, and took back a cargo of pelts, skins, and humans.
Because of such actions the once tranquil friendly Wampanoag that met Verrazzano turned leery, tiresome, and hardened against Europeans. Thomas Dermer in 1619 sailed to The Wampanoag Confederation expecting find Trade and Treasure. He was warned ahead of time that “there was a growing reputation for violence between Indians and European Explorers.”
One famous story is that of Squanto. also known as Tisquantum. He was captured in 1614 and enslaved in Spain and England. During captivity, he learned English and spoke of Wampanoag wealth to entice his release to a greedy ship’s captain that would sail him home. Thomas Dermer, returned to Wampanoo with Squanto. However, when Squanto returned to Pawtuxet, his home village, he was met with loss and sorrow rather than happiness.
Commerce
The Seaconke Plain since the advent of agriculture was the breadbasket of the Wampanoag Confederation. The Plain was “so fertile that any kind of seed will produce excellent crops.”
A vast network of trade roots brought squash, corn, and bean seeds to Southern New England one thousand years ago. By 1300-1400 C.E. the Seaconke Plain was in full production Oral Wampanoag tradition credits the arrival of these three crops to the Crow. A Crow flew in from the southwest and deposited seeds on the Seaconke Plain to insure the Wampanoag survival.
The Seaconke village was a teeming place of activity by 1400 C.E. produce grown on the Plain was stored in local store houses both above and below ground. Dr. John Erhardt mentions that some winter supplies were stored off Reed Street in Seekonk. The bulk of the product was sent to other Wampanoag communities Via the Ten Mile, Seaconke, Blackstone, and Moshassuck rivers.
Rivers were like the modern highway system. You could get to just about anywhere in Pokanoket and other tribes of the Confederacy by following the waterways.
Not just food products but other items and people were moved along the waterways as well. If one tribe needed a certain type of wood it could be loaded and shipped from one place to another. The
rivers also had another use. Many fish wares were built to catch, bass, trout, herring and even salmon. Herring was very important in use to fertilize the “Three Sisters”.
Major Wampanoag Villages in the 1600’s Wikipedia
Major Village Name: Seaconke
Location: Mouth of Ten Mile River
Primary Function: Trade and transport hub for importing/ exporting goods along the bay coast and across to Moshassuck or Coweasett
Major Village Name: Pawtucket
Location: Falls where Blackstone River flows into Seaconke River
Primary Function: Defensive crossing point - narrowest place for enemies to traverse from west to east
Major Village Name: Wochomoquet
Location: High point near current Washington Bridge into Providence
Primary Function: Strategic observation and defense - visibility of western Pokanoket and river confluence
Major Village Name: Wannamoisett
Location: Fertile fields region
Primary Function: Agricultural center for corn, beans, and squash cultivation
Seaconke then and now is a homeland to people that live, work, and have purpose. From the end of the ice age to yester year and today Seaconke is the first Frontier.
CITATIONS:
1. Documentary History of Rhode Island Vol. II Howard M. Chapin (1919) pg. 1
2. The History of Rehoboth, Seekonk, East Providence, Pawtucket & Barrington. Volume I Seacunke 1500’s to 1645. Dr. John G. Erhardt (1982) pg. 3
3. The History of Rehoboth, Seekonk, East Providence, Pawtucket & Barrington Volume I Seacunke 1500’s to 1645 Dr. John G. Erhardt (1982) pg.3
4. This Land is their Land David J Silverman (2019) pg.61
5. This Land is Their Land David J Silvermand (2019) pg. 56
6. Edible Southeastern Massachusetts Ch. The Three Sisters Garden and Indigenous Wisdom www.edibles.com/foodways/the-three-sisters
AI depiction (Gemini) Seaconke Wampanoag Village (c. 1600) at the confluence of the Ten Mile and Seekonk Rivers.
Seekonk Town Meeting Preview
By Joe Siegel
Voters at the May 11 Spring Town Meeting will be asked to approve several expenditures, including Town Administrator Shawn Cadime’s proposed FY’27 budget of $78.7 million.
That figure represents a 3.8 percent increase over the current fiscal year.
The biggest portion of the budget, $37 million, is for education. Chapter 70 funding for Seekonk Public Schools totals $8.5 million, an increase of $174,000 from last year. Foundation enrollment is 2,018 students - a decrease of 22 students from the previous school year.
Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell had been seeking a 4.61 percent increase, but that number has been reduced to three percent after the Select Board agreed to make some reductions on the town side to compensate.
The school department is requesting $725,000 from the Building & Infrastructure Stabilization Fund to purchase and install a specialized HVAC system for the indoor pool at Seekonk High School. The new system is needed to control humidity, maintain air quality, and prevent structural damage and will replace the existing Dectron unit, which school officials claim has outlived its use.
In addition, the school department is also asking for $975,000 to be drawn from the Building & Infrastructure Stabilization Fund to replace the asphalt, curbing, and drainage at the George R. Martin Elementary School, including design and engineering, as well as, the purchase and installation of materials.
Another warrant article proposes to establish a School Building Committee of no more than 20 voting members, each of whom shall be a Town resident over the age of 18. 35 total members to be appointed by the School Committee or the Select Board to oversee the potential school building projects based around Hurley Middle School with consideration for grades 5 through 12.
A proposed amendment to the Zoning-By-laws will establish a Billboard Overlay District.
Other articles include:
• To see if the Town will vote to transfer from the PEG Cable Access and Cable Related fund the sum of $149,102 as a grant to Seekonk Cable Access, Inc., the Town’s PEG Access Provider, to carry out its PEG Access Provider functions in FY’27.
• To see if the Town will vote to appropriate from Ambulance Receipts the sum of $119,797.25 for the third 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.
• To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the following sums to be expended for departmental equipment, including Year Three (3) of the three (3) year lease/purchase of one (1) bucket truck for the Public Works Department, to be expended under the direction of the Select Board - $67,945, Year Two (2) of the
three (3) year lease/purchase of one (1) large dump truck for the Public Works Department, to be expended under the direction of the Select Board - $110,575, Purchase a trackless tractor for the Public Works Department, with funds to be expended under the direction of the Select Board - $250,000.
The meeting will begin at 6 pm in the auditorium at Seekonk High School, 261 Arcade Avenue. The entire warrant can be found on the town website: seekonk-ma.gov.
Town Meeting Discussion with Mike Durkay
By Joe Siegel
Seekonk Town Moderator Michael Durkay discussed the warrant articles for the May 11 Town Meeting in a program taped at TV9 studios.
Durkay was joined by Town Administrator Shawn Cadime, School Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell, and Town Planner John Aubin.
The $76 million town budget will be voted on. Most of the budget is allocated for education. “This process is evolving every single day,” Cadime said. “It’s a living document. We’re constantly reviewing it and working with it.” Cadime noted fixed costs, including health care, continue to increase.
The school department is requesting money for a replacement HVAC system for the pool at Seekonk High School. The estimated cost is $725,000. The new system is needed to control humidity, maintain air quality, and prevent structural damage and will replace the existing Dectron unit, which school officials claim has outlived its use.
“This still goes through the bidding and procurement process,” Kidwell explained. “The $725,000 is just a budgeting number. If we are able to secure a replacement unit (for less), then of course that would be our preference and any money would be returned to the town.”
Kidwell said members of the school department would be meeting with an engineer to determine “where that cost is coming from.”
Another article proposes establishing a 20 member School Building Committee, which would oversee all projects based around Hurley Middle School with consideration for grades 5 through 12.
“This is a unique situation,” Kidwell added. “We don’t mean to supplant a regular Building Committee, which we would support and be happy to be a part of. The intent is to be inclusive and transparent with the town as a whole.”
The meeting will begin at 6 pm in the auditorium at Seekonk High School, 261 Arcade Avenue. The entire warrant can be found on the town website: seekonk-ma.gov.
Elmasian, Archambault Prevail in Seekonk Election
By Joe Siegel
Political newcomers Elizabeth Elmasian and Robert Achambault came out ahead in their campaign to win two three year seats on the Select Board.
Elmasian won 943 votes, Archambault won 903 votes. Incumbent board member Michelle Hines trailed with 530 votes.
1321 ballots were cast on Monday. That figure is less than 10 percent of the town’s eligible voters.
“I’m very surprised about the results,” Elmasian said. “I’m very happy about the results. I have hope that we’re going to pull Seekonk back together.”
All other races were uncontested.
• Town Clerk Kristen P. L’Heureux won re-election to a three year term.
• Michael Durkay ran unopposed to serve as Town Moderator.
• Robert Anthony Stoops won a seat on the Water Commission.
• Janet Ruth Parker won re-election to the Board of Assessors.
• Fred A. Slemon, Jr. and Catherine Elizabeth Capello won reelection to the Board of Library Trustees.
• Sandra F. Escaler won re-election to the Planning Board.
• Andrew J. Tessier won election to the Seekonk School Committee.
Elmasian Volunteers for Medeiros Farm Committee
By Joe Siegel
Seekonk Select Board member Elizabeth Elmasian has expressed her interest in serving on the Medeiros Farm Committee.
The Board voted Wednesday to send notice to Justin Sullivan, the board’s current representative on the committee, about his potential removal.
The current members of the committee include Willit Mason, Nathan Socha, Andrea Rosseter, Nicole LeMay, Paul Medeiros, and David Sullivan, Jr.
At the May 2023 Town Meeting, $150,000 was appropriated from the Community Preservation Fund to hire a consultant to develop a master plan for the Medeiros Farm at Elm Street and Lincoln Street. A seven-member committee was appointed to oversee the project. David Sullivan is the Chairman. Sullivan also serves as Chairman of the town’s Planning Board. The other members all represent other town committees.
The Medeiros Farm Recreation and Park Master Plan outlined four objectives: active recreation, passive recreation, historic preservation, and a Community Park.
Residents from Elm Street and Lincoln Street expressed their opposition to having soccer fields in their neighborhood. They cited traffic and safety concerns.
Two citizens’ petition articles were placed on the November 2025 Town Meeting warrant. One article was to rescind $825,000 in funding already appropriated for the project. The other was to rescind the appointment of the Medeiros Farm Committee itself. Both articles failed.
Seekonk’s Old Town Hall Could Become Cultural Center
By Joe Siegel
The Old Town Hall at 624 Taunton Avenue may get a new lease on life as a cultural center. The structure, the former site of the Seekonk Police Department headquarters, has sat unoccupied for several years.
Select Board member Elizabeth Elmasian believes the building could serve as a cultural center and a historical museum, noting a fundraising effort would need to be launched to pay for renovations. “I think that would be a great idea,” Elmasian said at Wednesday’s meeting.
John Alves, the chair of the Community Preservation Committee, also believes the building can serve many uses.
The property, constructed in 1897, had been sold to the Seaconke Wampanoags for $55 in 2014. The tribe had intended to
convert the building into a cultural and meeting center. Those plans fell through and now the town owns the building again.
At an October 2022 meeting with the Old Town Hall Building Committee, the Board of Selectmen approved a feasibility study for the building. At the time, Town Administrator Shawn Cadime said the study would present viable options of what could be done with the building and at that point, decide how the Town should move forward with it.
In 2018, Selectmen designated the task of determining the building’s value to members of the town’s Historical commission and the Community Preservation Committee.
Voters at last November’s Town Meeting rejected a warrant article which would have authorized the Select Board to sell the property.
Finance Committee Recommends Cutting Fire Department Hires
By Joe Siegel
Members of the Seekonk Select Board expressed their dismay with the Finance Committee’s vote to remove the mid-year hires for the Fire Department from the FY’27 budget, less than two weeks before the May 11 Town Meeting.
Chief Shaun Whalen had attended the committee’s meeting on Tuesday but was not present when the vote was taken.
“I don’t understand their thought process,” said Board Chair Gary Sagar. “It makes no sense to me. I think town meeting (voters) would support (hiring) the four firefighters.”
“It’s a recommendation, we don’t have to listen to it,” said member Michael Healy, a former Fire Chief. “To me, I will leave it up to the voters at Town Meeting. I’m sure they will do the right thing.”
Town Administrator Shawn Cadime said what was in the budget was intended to allow for 11 firefighters per shift. The proposed Fire Department budget is $5.7 million, which provides for 49 fulltime employees.
“The original commitment, going back to 2023, was to have 12 firefighters per shift,” Cadime explained. “I still think there was room for discussion. I don’t know why we would reduce it, especially mid-year hires, if there’s no need to put (money) into another department.”
Resident Doreen Taylor called the committee’s actions “horrible.”
“Taking a vote that affects this man’s department after (Whalen) has left the room is completely unprofessional,” Taylor added. “That is totally disrespectful to our fire department and our fire chief.”
School Building Committee on Town Warrant
By Joe Siegel
A proposal to form a 20 member School Building Committee will appear on the May 11 Spring Town Meeting warrant.
The Seekonk Select Board approved the article at their April 1 meeting in a 4 to 1 vote. Michelle Hines, Michael Healy, Chris Zorra, and Pam Pozzi all voted in favor. Gary Sagar, who said he would not be supporting the inclusion of the article, voted ‘present.’
“We are required to have this building committee seated within 60 days of being invited to the MSBA pipeline, which commences on July 1,” said School Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell.
“There is no other town meeting scheduled before the end of August. If we don’t put this on the May (town meeting), we would have to call a special town meeting,” Kidwell told the Select Board.
“Just approving it (to be) on the warrant isn’t saying that you’re going to fund a new school.”
If the committee is approved at town meeting, the voting members are required to be town residents over the age of 18. “We intend to include students, we intend to include faculty members, and you’re required by the MSBA to include people like your Superintendent, your School Business Administrator, and the administrators of the schools,” Kidwell continued. “We do not live in Seekonk so we would be non-voting members.”
The Select Board also approved sending a Statement of Interest to the MSBA (Massachusetts School Building Authority) for Seekonk High School.
The priorities in the document include expanded classroom space to handle overcrowding due to increased student enrollment, and renovations or modernizations of school facilities including roofs, windows, heating, and ventilation systems, which will decrease energy costs.
“We are not coming up with some wild new project here,” Kidwell added. “We are just fulfilling the bureaucratic box that the MSBA has already allowed us.”
Seekonk School Committee Lobbies Select Board
By Joe Siegel
Members of the Seekonk School Committee appeared at the April 15 Select Board meeting in an attempt to earn support for a higher budget.
In a 4-0 vote, the Select Board approved making cuts on the town side which would allow for a 3 percent increase in the school budget. Member Robert Archambault recused himself from the discussion.
Board member Michael Healy believed taking money out of the line for professional development and certifications for town employees would be a mistake. “You’ll see good people we have working here decide to go elsewhere,” he noted.
Another consideration is to cut funds for National Night Out, which is a community engagement event for the Police Department. “I would hate to see that get lost in the shuffle,” Healy said.
Healy also rejected the idea of cutting funds to replace aging police cruisers, as well as for new employees for the Fire Department and the Department of Public Works.
The budget will be presented at the May 11 Town Meeting.
“All departments are absolutely being impacted, that’s 100 percent true,” said committee member Andrew Tessier. “But we have heard about Police, Fire, (Public Works) have had to work with limited constraints as well. No one is disputing that. No one is saying that anyone here is rolling in money. That’s obviously not happening. But when you compare the major service areas, the schools experienced one of the largest slowdowns in growth.”
“Everything we do is for the schools,” said Select Board member Chris Zorra.
At the April 13 school committee meeting, the Chair Robert Gerardi repeated his claim that the school department had been “treated unfairly.”
“The right recipe for us to collaborate is not with sarcasm and bashing people,” said Chair Gary Sagar. “That’s not a positive thing and hopefully we can move forward. There are some areas we need to dive into - special education and maintenance.”
“I really appreciate you working with us,” said committee member Emily Field. “In my four years (on the school committee), we’ve never had this type of relationship. I apologize if anyone on our board offended anyone on the Select Board. I think you guys have shown very good faith working with us.”
Last week, the committee approved fees for athletics and activities at the middle and high school levels as a way to compensate for a deficit in the FY’27 budget.
Along with some reductions, the total increase is 3.41 percent. At their April 8 meeting, the committee had approved a 3.95 percent increase.
Last February, the school department had proposed a 4.61 percent increase over the previous fiscal year. Town officials had been unwilling to allow for more than a 2.5 percent increase, noting town departments would be negatively impacted, including the Police and Fire departments, as well as the Department of Public Works.
School Committee Approves $35 Million Budget
By Joe Siegel
The Seekonk School Committee approved a $35 million budget for FY’27 at their May 4 meeting. That figure represents a 3.51 percent increase.
The action comes after weeks of discussions with the Select Board over how much money should be allocated for education.
The budget will be voted on at Monday’s Town Meeting.
Members of the committee lobbied Select Board members in an attempt to earn support for a higher budget.
In a 4-0 vote, the Select Board approved making cuts on the town side which would allow for a 3 percent increase in the school budget. Member Robert Archambault recused himself from the discussion at the April 15 meeting.
“I really appreciate you working with us,” said committee member Emily Field. “In my four years (on the school committee), we’ve never had this type of relationship. I apologize if anyone on our board offended anyone on the Select Board. I think you guys have shown very good faith working with us.”
Last month, the committee approved fees for athletics and activities at the middle and high school levels as a way to compensate for a deficit in the FY’27 budget.
Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell said specific fees have not been set, but the school department hopes to raise $70,000.
Last February, the school department had initially proposed a 4.61 percent increase over the previous fiscal year.
Seekonk Human Services
Seekonk Veterans’ Coffee Hour
Monday, May 11, 2026 at 2:00pm
Come and join Seekonk’s Veterans Services Officer, James LaFlame, for our Coffee Hour. The event is for our veterans to have some coffee and dessert, network with other local veterans, learn about services and programs available to you as a veteran, and enjoy great company. Preregistration is required.
Silver
Tea
Wed, May 13, 2026 at Noon
You are cordially invited to attend a Silver Tea honoring women in Seekonk age 75 and older
The Tea will be held at Seekonk Human Services, 540 Arcade Avenue. Hosted by Seekonk Human Services & Funded by Friends of Friends Community Services Inc.
Join us for a presentation hosted by Lisa Valente, RN, CDOE and presented by Priscilla Matton M.S. with Bristol County Mosquito. The Bristol County Mosquito Control Project monitors and reduces mosquito populations in the county through surveillance, water management, biological and chemical controls. Information will be provided on the mosquito’s life cycle, habitat, West Nile virus, and EEE. Control measures and guidance on how to prevent mosquito bites and breeding around your property will be discussed. Preregistration is required.
Book Club
Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 10:00am
Come join the discussion of, The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau, by Kristin Harmel. A historical fiction novel that follows Colette, a morally driven jewel thief, as she uncovers family secrets tied to World War II and a long-lost bracelet. The group will be led with discussion questions, but feel free to bring you own Preregistration is required.
A Musical Journey Through the Years
By Tommy Rull
Wednesday, May 20, 2026 at 1:00pm
Take a walk down memory lane. Enjoy the music of Frank Sinatra, Neil Diamond, Kenny Rogers, Paul Anka, Barry Manilow, Elvis Presley, Perry Como, Lou Rawls, Engelbert Humperdinck and many more. *This program is funded by a grant from the Seekonk Cultural Council. Registration is required.
Musical Entertainment by Vini Ames
Wed, May 27, 2026 at 1:00pm
Vini Ames has delighted audiences for more than forty years. His zest for performing is as strong today as it was when he first joined a rock band in the 1970’s. Vini Ames will entertain with singing for listening or dancing pleasure, comedy, impersonations, and audience participation. Preregistration is required.
The center is open MondayThursday 8:15am - 4:00pm and Friday 8:15am - 12:00pm. We welcome all to come and enjoy the activities and companionship at Seekonk Human Services.
All Medium: Acrylic, Watercolor and Oil Painting
Fridays from 9:30am - 11:30am
From beginners to experienced painters, all skill levels are welcome. Instructor led every 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Friday. Contact Seekonk Human Services to register. The
Dr. Lisa Daft
Dr. Gian Calandrelli
Providing comprehensive dental care in Seekonk, MA. We welcome new patients!
Dr. Lisa Daft and Dr. Jared Stubbs
Are pleased to announce Dr. Chris Vanderpool has joined our family and cosmetic dental practice. Providing comprehensive dental care in Seekonk, MAfor more than 35 years. We welcome new patients!
May 2026
cost is $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.
Women’s Lunch
Wed, June 3, 2026 at 11:30am
Longhorn Steakhouse, 80 Highland Ave, Seekonk
This group meets the 1st Wednesday of every month. Everything is Dutch treat. If you are interested in joining for good food and good conversation, while supporting our local restaurants, please call the office. Cash payment is preferred. Preregistration is required by the Monday before the luncheon.
Blood Pressure & Glucose Clinic
Wed, May 20th 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!
Learn from Experience: Discover GetSetUp
Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at 2:30pm
Discover GetSetUp, a free online learning platform featuring live, interactive classes led by presenters age 55+. From technology and wellness to hobbies and lifelong learning, GetSetUp offers engaging sessions designed to build skills, spark curiosity, and foster connection. Join us to see how easy it is to get started and find classes that fit your interests, all free with your Seekonk Library card. Bring your library card and email address to get started. Preregistration is required.
Indoor Cornhole
Mondays at 10:30am
Come play cornhole on Monday mornings. All are welcome. Preregistration is required.
Backgammon & Checkers
Tuesdays at 2:00pm
Players move their checkers around the board according to rolls of the dice and the first player to get all their checkers off 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! To win a game of checkers, you must jump your checkers over all your opponent’s pieces or block their pieces so they can no longer make a move. Preregistration is required.
Learning Mahjong
Thursdays - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Have you ever been mesmerized by the clinking of Mahjong tiles or the camaraderie of players around a table? Learning Mahjong is more than just mastering a game - it’s about embracing a rich tradition and connecting with others. Come to our Senior Center to start this exciting journey and dive into this centuries-old game of skill and strategy. Preregistration is required.
Tuesday Luncheon at 12:00pm
Seekonk Human Services has partnered with The Hamilton Diner to offer weekly lunches! Lunches will cost $7 for residents and $8 for nonresidents. The menu will be available at the office and on Facebook. On the last Tuesday of each month, we will be celebrating Seekonk Senior’s birthday. On your birth month you will only pay $2.00 for that lunch (Seekonk residents only).
Nutritional Meals to Go
Tues / Weds / 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 menu is available at our office and on our Facebook page.
Hearing Clinic
Mon, June 8, 2026 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Chris Brissette from Hearing Life will be here for the Hearing Clinic. Appointments are scheduled every 15 minutes. Preregistration is required and opens May 15.
Musical Entertainment by Carine Paul
Wed, June 10, 2026 at 1:00pm
Come join in for some music entertainment by Carine Paul. She will be preforming all types of songs for you to enjoy. Preregistration is required and opens May 15.
Overview of Legal Services
Monday, June 15, 2026
10:30am - 12:30pm (15 min appt)
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 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. Preregistration is required and opens May 15.
Seekonk Veterans’ Coffee Hour
Monday, June 15, 2026 at 2:00pm
Come and join Seekonk’s Veterans Services Officer, James LaFlame, for our Coffee Hour. The event is for our Veterans to have some coffee and dessert, network with other local veterans, learn about services and programs available to them, and enjoy great company. Preregistration is required and opens May 15.
Book Club
Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at 10:00am
Come join the discussion of, This Tender Land by William Kent Krueger. An epic tale of four orphans who canoe along the Gilead, Minnesota, and Mississippi Rivers, escaping from a dark, abusive place and searching for a home in depression-era America. The group will be led with discussion questions, but feel free to bring you own. Preregistration is required and opens May 15.
Kalifornia Karl
Wed, June 17, 2026 at 11:15am
Kalifornia Karl is a singer/guitarist/ impressionist that is American’s busiest entertainer with over 1000 performances a year. A winner of Ed McMahon’s TV talent shows Star Search in 1991. He has also been featured on the big screen with Gwyneth Paltrow, Andre Braugher and has shared the stage with Michael Buble, Huey Lewis and many others. Lunch will be a pizza and chips. The fee for residents is $10.00 and non-residents is $13.00. Preregistration is required and opens May 15.
Father’s Day Ice Cream Social
Monday, June 22, 2026 at 2:00pm
Let’s celebrate with an ice cream social! Come on down to enjoy some ice cream inside good company. This event is open to all! Seekonk men are FREE. Women and non-residents are $2. Preregistration is required and opens May 15.
July 4th Party
Wed, June 24, 2026 at 11:30am
Join us for our 4th of July Party with entertainment by Steve Burke. Steve Burke, an RI musician is a one-man band that plays the keyboard, sax, smooth jazz vocals and dances. You can sit down, relax and listen to songs from Sinatra to Santana and some of his own songs too! This is sure to be a great time. Lunch will be hamburgers and hot dogs. The fee for residents is $10.00 and non-residents is $13.00. Preregistration is required and opens May 15.
Grief and Depression
Can feel heavy and overwhelming
Monday, June 29, 2026 at 2:00pm
Please join us for this important presentation on grief and depression. Depression can affect anyone regardless of age, sex, race, ethnicity, income, culture, or education. This educational program will be presented by Jennifer Lafleur, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C. Hosted by our Public Health Nurse, Lisa Valente, RN, CDOE. Preregistration is required and May 15.
Seekonk Human Services Presents Charles Riverboat & Encore Casino
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
$131 PP (including driver gratuity)
Depart: 7:30am – 540 Arcade Avenue, Seekonk. Approximate Return At 5:15pm Encore Boston Harbor and Charles Riverboat Company has teamed up to create the ultimate cruise and play package. A 90-minute tour departs from the Cambridge Side Mall, cruises along the Charles River, out through the locks and Boston Harbor. The group gets dropped off directly at the casino’s dock around 11:00am and everyone is given $15 in slot play. Lunch is on your own. Departure from Casino is scheduled for 4:00pm. Full payment due upon registration. NO REFUNDS within 30 days of departure. *Casino package subject to change at the discretion of the casino *
Seekonk Fire Department Senior SAFE Program
Senior SAFE is a program that supports fire and life safety education for seniors. Education is key to improving the safety of seniors at home. What we do? (1) pro-
vide and install smoke and CO alarms, (2) provide and install lock boxes, (3) Provide and install blue house numbers, (4) bucket brigade – provide salt/sand mix for home use, (5) file of life – provide a medical information packet. Who’s qualified? Seekonk residents 65+ who own or permanently live in their home. For more information about what we do and resources available, contact any Human Services employee or email SAFE@SeekonkFire-MA.gov or Klaprade@ SeekonkFire-MA.gov
Telephone Reassurance Program
Our office will make a telephone call to an individual’s home at approximately the same time each day Monday through Friday (during our operating business hours only). This program is designed to connect people in need with ongoing, caring human contact and conversation. If we do not receive an answer, we will call back shortly after. If we do not receive an answer the second time, Public Safety will be called to check on the individual’s status. The Telephone Reassurance Program provides a peace of mind for the individual and their loved ones. This program is designed for senior citizens, disabled persons and shut-ins living in Seekonk who may be at risk of loneliness, social isolation, illness or injury. If you, or you know someone you know is interested in this program, please call Nicole at Human Services at 508-336-8772.
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Accepting most insurances 237 Winthrop Street, Rehoboth Junction of Routes 44 and 118
Medical Loan Closet
Our FREE Medical Loan Closet is available for Seekonk residents. Our inventory is dependent on donated items received, but may be limited based on need and space. For more information, please call 508-3368772 *30 Day Rental
Exercise Classes
Mondays
Movement & Meditation 10am
Strength & Cardio 1pm
Tuesdays
Drums Alive 9am
Wednesdays
Stability and Balance 8:30am
Drums Alive 9:30am
Thursdays
Mat Exercise 9am
Movement & Meditation 10am
Fridays
Dance Cardio 9:15am
Tai Chi 10:30am
*All activities are subject to pre-registration
Games
Play a favorite or learn something new!
• Canasta - Mondays at 11am. A card game of the Rummy family
• Backgammon & Checkers - Tuesdays at 2pm.
• Hi-Low Jack (Pitch) - Tues & Thurs at
1pm. Win the game by having the highest card played in the trump suit
• Mahjong - Wed at 1pm. Mahjong is a game of skill and chance that originated in China
• Cribbage - Thurs at 11am. The first person to peg 121 points at the end of the board is the winner
• BINGO - Thurs at 1pm. Regular games $1.00 for 6 games. Specials $2.00 per game. A game of chance played with cards having numbered squares corresponding to numbers drawn at random
Email List
Join our email list! Things are changing so quickly these days and we want to be able to get the word out to you quickly. Please give us a call and give us your email address; we want to share fun activities, links to zoon and other virtual programing you may like.
* 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.
People In The News
At 81, Seekonk Man Celebrates 775 Straight Days of Exercise
Seekonk, Mass. — For most people, sticking to a fitness routine can be a challenge. For Steven Suher, it became a daily commitment—one he maintained for more than two years without missing a single day.
On April 10, the 81-year-old marked his 775th consecutive day of exercise, a milestone that reflects both discipline and determination. A familiar face at his local gym, including a Planet Fitness in East Providence, Suher built a routine that became central to his life.
“I just kept going,” he said. “Next milestone is 1,000 consecutive days!”
That consistency paid off. Over the course of his streak, Suher lost more than 30 pounds and improved his overall health, including lowering his A1C to 5.9%.
His journey is even more notable given the challenges he faced in recent years. Suher underwent dialysis for four years before receiving a kidney transplant three years ago. Since then, he has made staying active a priority—not just for fitness, but for long-term health.
His workouts were straightforward. Most days, he spent about 20 minutes on low-impact equipment such as an elliptical or recumbent bike. Occasionally, he exercised twice in one day, pushing his total number of workouts past 800.
Friends and fellow gym-goers gathered to recognize the milestone, celebrating not just the number, but the dedication behind it.
For Suher, the goal wasn’t recognition—it was consistency. And even after 775 consecutive days, he showed no signs of slowing down.
His story serves as a reminder that it’s never too late to make a commitment to better health—and stick with it.
University News
Ashlin Galloway named to Dean’s List at Endicott College
Ashlin Galloway of Rehoboth has been named to the Deans List for the Fall 2025 semester at Endicott College.
Ferreira, of Rehoboth, presents research findings during third annual Social Justice Research Symposium
Weston, MA -- Kennedy Ferreira, of Rehoboth, presented their research “” during Regis College’s third annual Social Justice Research Symposium on April 16. Ferreira is a Interdis. Studies:Humanities major.
Steven Suher
Club News & ANNOUNCEMENTS
Local A Cappella Chorus Earns Regional Ranking
Harmony Heritage Finishes 5th and Qualifies for International Contest. Skye Quartet Wins Novice Quartet Award
Harmony Heritage, the Pawtucket, Rhode Island chapter of Harmony, Incorporated, an international organization of female a cappella singers specializing in the barbershop harmony style, recently earned regional recognition and qualified for a spot at Harmony, Inc.’s international competition, which will be held in Louisville, KY later this year.
Harmony Heritage, based in Pawtucket, RI, placed 5th out of 10 choruses in Harmony, Inc.’s Area 2, which encompasses all of New England. The competition took place in Framingham, Massachusetts, and participants earning a score of a certain threshold are qualified to participate in the international competition of Harmony, Inc. choruses in November.
“The Harmony Heritage chorus rehearses all year to become more masterful at the four-part harmony that characterizes the barbershop style, but qualifying to participate in the International Convention & Contests of Harmony, Inc. is truly an honor,” says Camilla Streeter, chapter president. “We now have an opportunity to build on the success of our area contest showing, and to represent the Rhode Island and southeast Massachusetts community among choruses from all across the United States and Canada.” Streeter added, “We are also SO proud of Skye quartet for winning the Novice Quartet award!”
Harmony, Inc. has hosted area and international conventions for more than 60 years, gathering female singers of all musical
backgrounds and experience levels to participate in a series of competitions for quartets and choruses. Participants are adjudicated by a panel of trained judges evaluating categories that encompass what songs the performers elect to sing, the skill with which they sing those songs, and how they present the songs, which can include emotionally connecting with the audience. “The Harmony Heritage not only earned area recognition for its performance, but it has also accomplished something equally notable in qualifying to join other choruses at the premier event in Harmony, Inc.’s annual competition cycle,” says Gaye LaCasce, Harmony, Inc. president. “This positions Harmony Heritage as one of the top representatives of our organization, and we appreciate the talent that these women bring to the barbershop harmony genre.”
With approximately 25 members, Harmony Heritage has been directed for 12 years by Bob O’Connell of Pawtucket, RI, who now hands over the reins of the Director to Fred Kingsbury of Wrentham, MA. The chorus presented two songs at the area contest to earn its placement, “The Nearness of You” and “Take Me to the Land of Jazz”. These selections are a small sample of the chorus’s extensive repertoire, which is ideally suited for a wide range of audiences and events. To learn more about the chorus’s upcoming performance schedule, visit https://www.harmonyheritage.org.
About Harmony Heritage
Founded in 2001, a southern New England chapter of Harmony, Inc., also known as the Harmony Heritage chorus, brings four-part a cappella harmony to the local community through regular performances and educational events. The chorus consists of women representing a wide range of musical backgrounds, from novice to trained professionals, and performs under the direction of Fred Kingsbury. Members hail from all over Rhode Island and southeast Massachusetts. Harmony Heritage holds open rehearsals at 7:00 pm on Tuesdays at Epworth United Methodist Church, 915 Newport Avenue, Pawtucket, RI, and all women with a love of singing are invited. For more information, visit www.harmonyheritage.org .
Harmony Heritage women’s a cappella chorus has qualified for Harmony Inc.’s international contest in November.
GFWC Greater Taunton Woman’s Club News
The GFWC Greater Taunton Woman’s Club recently surprised seven local libraries with trays of decadent chocolatecovered strawberries in honor of National Library Week.
On April 22nd members Nancy Brown and Fran Perry prepared the fresh berries dipped in chocolate and filled each tray with two dozen. Attached tags read: “Compliments of the GFWC Greater Taunton Woman’s Club” along with the club’s tri-fold highlighting its 75th Anniversary.
Nancy Brown delivered to Rehoboth’s Blan-
Blanding Library Jen Joubert, Cathy Charbonneau ding Library and Dighton Public Library; Joyce Clark delivered treats to Berkley Library; Jen Rego and Linda Brosseau to Raynham and Norton libraries; Nancy Martin delivered to Taunton Public Library; and Diane Huling delivered to Lakeville Library.
All recipients were delighted and appreciative.
The GFWC (General Federation of Women’s Clubs) is open to women 18 years and older from the surrounding area towns.
Anyone interested in joining this club may contact Nancy Martin, President,mrmartin947@aol.com, or Membership Chairman Joyce Clark at 508-823-4482 for more information.
Events at the Seekonk American Legion Post 311 Spring Meat Raffles Continue
Meat Raffles continue each Saturday through May 16th. The raffles take place each Saturday at 2 pm. There are 3 tables of steaks, chicken, seafood, TV and other prizes. 50/50 raffle. Kitchen opens at 1 pm.
Memorial Day Weekend
Saturday – Come by the American Legion after the parade for Free Hot Dogs and Hamburgers, noon – 2 pm. The parade starts at 10 am from the high school and goes to the middle school. Followed by a ceremony at 11:30 at the Veterans Memorial Park.
Drive By Poppy Distribution
May 30th and 31st
Poppies will be available in front of the American Legion Post between 9 am and noon at 351 Fall River Ave, Seekonk. The red paper Poppy is the official memorial flower of the American Legion. The Auxiliary distributes Poppies so people can remember the sacrifice of our Military. Money received from distributing the Poppy can only be used for Veteran Rehabilitation. All donations are appreciated.
Hall Rental
150 person capacity. Contact Bob for information at 508-3369822.
351 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA 02771
508-336-9822
Seekonkpost311.org
Hornbine School Museum
Celebrating The Country’s Semiquincentenial
The Hornbine School Museum is happy to announce a number of special exhibits this season that will feature The 3 R’s: Road to Revolution in Rehoboth. We will have displays about local connections to many key figures in the Revolutionary War as well as Colonial Currency and a pictorial alphabet with the sites and symbols of Colonial America. You will also have a chance to SIGN the Declaration of Independence in true Hornbine style… with a feather pen! Children will have an opportunity to attend a special craft day. We will also have (new) themed ‘History Talks’.
MAY 17TH from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Children from 7 to 10 years - Join us at Hornbine’s one-room schoolhouse for a Felicity story and a hands-on activity, at a ‘Felicity Sewing Bee’, celebrating America’s special 250th anniversary. Felicity is an American doll set in the Revolutionary War era. Learn to hand sew a patriotic sachet (called a “sweete bag”) filled with fragrant herbs or spices. There will also be light refreshments served.
This activity is open to ages 7 to 10* (if your child is close to that age and would like to attend, please reach out to us for more information) Call Dawn at 508-728-4867 or email her at HornbineSchool@gmail.com
*parents are encouraged to stay. Where: Hornbine School, 146 Hornbine Road, Rehoboth, MA. Fee to attend: as a fundraiser for our non-profit, there’s a fee of $7.76 per child.
JUNE 7TH: Visit us at our Hornbine School Museum table at the Carpenter Museum’s Strawberry Festival from 1 – 5 pm. We’ll have a computer slide show, activities for the children and information about our “3 R’s: Road to Revolution in Rehoboth” activities this season.
JUNE 14TH: We are delighted to be able to offer a NEW series called ‘History Talks’. June’s ‘History Talk,’ scheduled for 3:00 pm, focuses on the History of Education and Hornbine School and will take place on flag day! Come learn something new and enjoy light refreshments including a red, white and blue punch and cheese & crackers. The cost goes directly to funding our “History Talks” and is only $1.76! Please register today, space is limited- email Dawn at hornbineschool@gmail.com
Attend any or all of our OPEN HOUSES this patriotic 2026 season, to discover more about the real “3 R’s: Road to Revolution in Rehoboth”. The museum is located at 146 Hornbine Road in Rehoboth and open from 2 – 4 each 2nd and 4th Sunday of June, July August and September. Search for our WEBSITE by Googling HORNBINESCHOOL. You will also find a link to our FACEBOOK page.
Rehoboth American Legion Post 302 Public Events
• Try our Fish & Chips or Specials of the week
• Every Thursday 4:00 till 7:00 P.M. / Friday 4:00 – 7:30 PM & Saturdays with a Band ONLY 6:00 till 7:30 PM
• Take Outs are welcome – call in your order in early for pickup at 508-252-9079
• Mondays Only - SLOPPY JOES $2.00 ea. 3-6 with a Drink
• Tequila + Two Tacos every Tuesday 3-6 PM or $2.50 ea
• Wild Wings Wednesday 3-6 PM or $1.00 per wing
• Chew & Brew every Thursday 3-6 PM order a Pizza
• “QUEEN OF HEARTS” drawing every Friday night at 8:00 PM
• “PRIZE / CASH BINGO’s” 4th Sunday of every month @ 5:00 PM
• 2nd Sunday of Every Month 7:30 am – 10:30 am All you can Eat Breakfast for only $12 / Bar Opens at 10:00 AM
• “NEW POOL TABLE” Come and have some fun Events: https://www.facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/
• May 8th, 2026 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M., On3 Entertainment, Classic Rock & Country – Classic Rock & County – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Shoot Some POOL
• May 9th, 2026 - Saturday - 7:00-10:00 P.M.,– PO BOYS BAND –Classic Rock – No Cover Charge! – Food – Fish & Chips - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/
• May 10th, 2026 – Sunday - 7:30 -10:30 A.M., American Legion’s Monthly Breakfast, Second Sunday of every month $12.00 donation - All you can Eat! Enjoy all the Food you can Eat!
• May 15th, 2026 - Friday - 7:00-10:00 P.M., SECONDHAND SMOKE REVISED BAND Classic Rock – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME! Play our POOL TABLE https:// open.spotify.com/artist/57RIFB8RMODxF0PXg6vVjT?si=%20 HGPY_GMWTAioT8epLo0GWg&nd=1
• May 16th, 2026 - Saturday - 7:00-10:00 P.M., TREMONT BAND – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME! Try playing at our Pool Table
• May 22nd, 2026 - Friday - 7:00-10:00 P.M., Gary Cummings & the G/Men Blues Band – Live Music Entertainment – No Cover Charge! – Food – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME!
• May 23rd, 2026 - Friday - 7:00-10:00 P.M., .– Mike Higgins & The Dynamics - Live Music Entertainment playing Classic, Rock & Country - No Cover Charge! – Bar Food – Kitchens open – Fish & Chips - Check with the bar for the Specials of the week – Drinks –Entertainment, Dancing so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Mike and The Dynamics |Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100063173623981
• May 24th, 2026 – Sunday - 5:00 -8:00 P.M., Prize BINGO! American Legion Auxiliary, Fourth Sunday of every month $10.00 donation per 5 Games – Food – Drinks & having a GREAT TIME!
• May 29th, 2026 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 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!
• May 29th, 2026 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 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! /
• May 30th, 2025 – Saturday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M RHODE RAGE, Classic Rock – No Cover Charge! – Bar Food – Kitchens open
– Fish & Chips - Check with the bar for the Specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, Dancing so sit back & have a GREAT TIME!
• June 5th, 2026 - Friday - 7:00-10:00 P.M., SECONDHAND SMOKE REVISED BAND Classic Rock – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME! Play our POOL TABLE https:// open.spotify.com/artist/57RIFB8RMODxF0PXg6vVjT?si=%20 HGPY_GMWTAioT8epLo0GWg&nd=1
• June 6th, 2026 – Saturday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M., On3 Entertainment, Classic Rock – Classic Rock & County – No Cover Charge! –Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME!
• June 12th, 2025 – Saturday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M RHODE RAGE, Classic Rock – No Cover Charge! – Bar Food – Kitchens open – Fish & Chips - Check with the bar for the Specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, Dancing so sit back & have a GREAT TIME!
• June 13th, 2026 – “NEW BAND” Saturday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M., THE WILEY BROTHERS BAND – Classic Rock & County – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME!
• June 14th, 2026 – Sunday - 7:30 -10:30 A.M., American Legion’s Monthly Breakfast, Second Sunday of every month $12.00 donation - All you can Eat! Enjoy all the Food you can Eat!
• June 19th, 2026 – 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 20th, 2026 – Saturday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M., – Live Music performed by Gutzy Right Duo Entertainment with Classic Rock Music – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Dancing & having a GREAT TIME! https://www.facebook.com/GutzyRight
• June 26th, 2026 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 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 26th, 2026 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M., – Live Karaoke performed by our own Devon’s 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!
• June 27th, 2026 – Saturday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M., “Vinyl Frontier Band” with Live Music Entertainment playing Classical Rock Music – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Dancing & having a GREAT TIME! Play some Pool! https://www.facebook.com/ Vinylfrontierband/
• June 28th, 2026 – Sunday -5:00 -8:00 P.M. CASH BINGO! American Legion Auxiliary, Fourth Sunday of every month $10.00 donation per 5 Games – Food – Drinks & having a GREAT TIME! https://www.facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/
• July 3rd, 2026 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M., On3 Entertainment, Classic Rock & Country – Classic Rock & County – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Shoot Some POOL
• July 4th, 2026 – Saturday ----------------- CLOSED -------------
• July 10th, 2026 - Friday - 7:00 - 10:00 P.M. – Greg Hodde’s Blue Reign, Classic Rock – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart https:// open.spotify.com/artist/57RIFB8RMODxF0PXg6vVjT?si=%20 HGPY_GMWTAioT8epLo0GWg&nd=1
The 14th Annual Seekonk Lions Doug Allan Memorial Fishing Tournament
It was a day dedicated to the fish, not the fishermen, as the 14th annual Seekonk Lions Doug Allan Memorial Fishing Tournament kicked off this past Patriots' Day at the picturesque Grist Mill Pond. Sixty eager kids, along with their proud parents, gathered on a beautiful morning filled with anticipation and camaraderie, all eager to see who would land the most prized trout lurking beneath the tranquil waters.
However, the fish had other plans that day, proving to be quite the elusive challenge for both seasoned anglers and those trying their luck for the very first time. Despite the excitement and effort, only a tiny minnow about 3 inches long was caught, and the only other "treasure" pulled from the pond was a small winter glove—likely lost on a chilly day and now serving as a quirky souvenir.
But the true spirit of the event shone through, proving that it’s not just about the catch but about community, fun, and making memories. The day culminated with a lively banquet at the American Legion, where everyone enjoyed delicious Chick-fil-A sandwiches loaded with all the fixings. Thanks to over $2,000 in donations and gifts generously provided by our many sponsors, the event proved to be a fantastic success—not just in prizes, but in the joy and camaraderie shared by all.
Most importantly, the smiles on the kids’ faces and the raffle prizes in their hands reminded us that sometimes, it’s the effort and the experience that matter most. It was a day to remember, and a wonderful reason to come back year after year.
We would like to thank our many sponsors including; The Old Grist Mill Tavern, Seekonk Grand Prix ™ , Chick-fil-A, American Legion Post 311, Bass Pro Shop, Purple Cow Ice Cream, Marti's Cupcakes & More, FamLee Grill Warren RI , Monster Mini Golf Seekonk, Micheletti's Restaurant, Jersey Mike's Subs , Cuzins Pizza, Spumoni's, Tavern on the Square, Rumford Pet, D's Lectables, Mack’s Original Pizza Pub, Outback Steakhouse, The Black Goose Tavern, Wild Birds Unlimited, Four Echoes at Grist Mill Pond, East Providence Lanes, Harvest Tap & Table Swansea
See you all next year.
George and Paul
Fishing Beauty
Family Fishing
Caught a glove! Getting ready
The Winning Catch!
Rotary And Lions Clubs To Hold 2026 Charity Golf Tournament
East Providence, R.I. and Seekonk, Mass: The Rotary Club of East Providence/Seekonk and the Seekonk Lions Club will hold their 34th Annual Charity Golf Tournament on May 18th at the Ledgemont Country Club, 131 Brown Avenue in Seekonk.
Registration begins at 11:00 am with lunch at 12:00 pm. Shotgun start is at 1:00 pm. The fee for an individual golfer is $150 and $600 for a foursome (prices increase on May 1st to $175 and $700), and includes greens fees, carts, lunch, goodie bag, and after-golf hors d’oeuvres cocktail reception (cash bar). Event prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place teams (low gross), men and women’s longest drive (including 65+ seniors men and women), and closest to the pin. A prize of $10,000 will be awarded to any participant who scores a hole-in-one on any of the four Par 3 holes on the course.
Several foursomes remain available. Until May 8th, $125 tee signs (tax-deductible) and other sponsorship levels are available to showcase local businesses and supporters. Among the raffle prizes is a foursome at Rhode Island Country Club and another at Ledgemont Country Club.
ABOUT ROTARY:
Chartered in 1946, The Rotary Club of East Providence, RI/Seekonk, MA is a local club of Rotary International, based in Chicago, IL. Rotary is an organization of business and professional persons united worldwide who raise funds for charity, provide humanitarian “service above self,” encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world. Members are action-oriented people interested in helping their local communities. Club meetings are held once per month, and new members are always welcome. For more information, visit www.epseekonkrotary.org.
ABOUT LIONS:
The Seekonk Lions Club was established in August 1958 and is one of the many clubs in District 33S. The Club is part of the world’s largest service organization – Lions Clubs International – which was founded in 1917. Lions Clubs worldwide are bound by the rule that 100% of all funds raised from the public must go back to the public. All of our administrative expenses are covered by funds that come from members. For more information, visit https://www.seekonklions. club/home.
Proceeds from the tournament will benefit a number of local community organizations supported by the East Providence/Seekonk Rotary Club and the Seekonk Lions Charitable Trust, such as food pantries and assistance programs, holiday toys for youth, organized youth sports teams, college scholarships, and more.
To date, 2026 tournament sponsors secured are as follows: Presenting Host First Auto Group; Hole-In-One Sponsors Kavanaugh’s Bakery Products and Brown Medicine; Double Eagle Sponsors Atlantic Paper & Twine, Edward Jones/William Francis, Tom and Lori Fredericks; Eagle Sponsors: BayCoast Bank, Herb Chambers Honda of Seekonk, and Carol and Allan Gilmore; Contributing Sponsors Minuteman Press, Cross Insurance, and Chris Gasbarro’s Fine Wine & Spirits.
To register online or purchase tee signs and sponsorships, visit https://epseekonkrotary.org/events/2026-rotary-lions-charitygolf-tournament.
For more information, call event organizers David Kent at 401420-9603 (Rotary) or Dana Heberlein at 401-741-9070 (Seekonk Lions).
Angels’ Care Closet, Inc. Announces Penny Raffle Fundraiser Featuring 20 Exciting Prizes
Angels’ Care Closet, Inc. is pleased to announce its upcoming Penny Raffle Fundraiser, taking place from May 2 through May 30. This community-driven event will feature 20 exciting raffle prizes, offering participants a fun and meaningful way to support a worthy cause.
Raffle tickets will be available for purchase at $20 per sheet, with each sheet including 20 tickets. Participants can distribute their tickets among the prize options of their choice, increasing their chances of winning items that appeal most to them.
Proceeds from the fundraiser will directly benefit Angels’ Care Closet, Inc.’s mission to support individuals and families in need by providing essential items and resources to the community.
Winners will be announced at the conclusion of the raffle period. Additional details about prize offerings, ticket purchases, and drawing information will be shared through Angels’ Care Closet, Inc.’s official channels.
For more information, to purchase tickets, or to learn how you can support Angels’ Care Closet, Inc., please contact: angelscarecloset@gmail.com or visit us on Facebook
About Angels’ Care Closet, Inc.
Angels’ Care Closet, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing essential items and compassionate support to individuals and families in need. Through community partnerships and outreach initiatives, the organization strives to bring dignity, comfort, and hope to those it serves.
New England Clam Boil
Saturday May 9, 2026 7:00 PM
Sponsored By Anawan Fire Association
Seekonk Rod & Gun Club 61 Reed Street, Rehoboth, Ma
Tickets - $40.00 Each
Prizes Will Be Raffeled
Tickets Only – No Walk-Ins
For Tickets Call (508) 226-2914
Anawan Fire Association Inc. P.O. Box 824
Rehoboth, MA 02769-0824
Seekonk Knights of Columbus Charity Yard Sale May 16, 2026
For over 40 years the Seekonk Knights have been sponsoring this annual charity event which has become the largest and longestrunning yard sale in the Seekonk area.
It happens on Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 8 am to 12 noon at 532 Arcade Ave., Seekonk, MA 02771.
There will be an array of 30 sellers waiting to show off their wares. Come and experience treasure-hunting at its best.
Free admission; free parking; and free face painting for all kids under age 40.
Rain date is Sunday, May 17, 2026.
Visit our Facebook page of yard sales past.
TEN31 Productions and The Harpies are thrilled to present
Obscura: Murder at the Fantasy Ball
A fully immersive and interactive murder mystery show
Audiences are invited to clothe themselves in vernal finery and attend the Spring Ball of the Faerie Court. But when a terrible murder takes place, the guests must solve it. Attendees can talk to, spy on, and accuse members of the Royal Court; solve puzzles and decrypt secret messages; and even roll dice to perform skill checks for additional information. At the end of the night, guests can celebrate a job (hopefully) well done by dancing their hearts out under a woodland canopy.
Event Highlights Include:
• Two captivating dance performances by Metamorphosis: The TEN31 Dance Company
• Live performances, musical and otherwise, by the Rubin Brothers
• A specialty event cocktail crafted by Working Man Distillers
• A fantasy costume contest and many more enticements
Dates & Times:
• Friday, May 15 | 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
• Saturday, May 16 | 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
• Sunday, May 17 | 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM Tickets are available now.
Swansea Quilt Club Presents
Our Annual Quilt Fair
Saturday June 6, 2026 • 9-2
At the Olde White Church GAR Highway (corner of Maple Avenue) Swansea, MA
$5.00 admission
Quilts Display • Raffle Quilt
Tables: Basket Drawings, Fabric, Books & Magazines, Handcrafted Items, History of the Quilt Club, Quilting Demonstration, Quilted items for sale, and Baked Goods for Sale
Veteran’s Table
Sale Item (proceeds go to veterans)
Donations of the following items: White Socks, Sweat Pants or PJ Pants ( size XL, XXL, or XXXl), Toiletries such as: Toothbrush, Tooth paste, Gold Bond Powder
The Carpenter Museum’s Annual Strawberry Festival Returns
Sunday June 7th, 1-5PM
Join the Carpenter Museum for our 15th annual Strawberry Festival on Sunday June 7th, 1-5PM. The festival will be held at the Museum in the Rehoboth Village (4 Locust Avenue), rain or shine. Entry and parking are free!
The annual Strawberry Festival is a family friendly event featuring activities related to early American History. Returning this year are spinning wheel demonstrators, Paul Revere copper plate printing, Revolutionary War era music and coffee tasting, as well as 17th century men’s clothes tailoring! We will also have old favorites like candle dipping, hearth cooking demonstrations, butter making, clay pinch pot sculpting, colonial yard games, and so much more! As always, we will have strawberry shortcake, strawberry lemonade, and baked goods for sale (cash only). Parking is available in the field behind the Museum and Rehoboth Congregational Church.
Narragansett Bay Symphony Community Orchestra
Join the Narragansett Bay Symphony Community Orchestra (NaBSCO), Rhode Island’s premier community orchestra, for a Season Finale Concert on Sunday, June 7, 2026 at 3:00 pm in the auditorium of East Providence High School (2000 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence, RI). Guest Conductor Thomas Kociela will lead the orchestra in performance of expressive works to end the 2025-2026 season.
The concert opens with the performance of American composer Ferde Grofé’s Ode to the Star-Spangled Banner. Being performed in celebration of the country’s 250th anniversary, this relatively unknown piece is a glowing, cinematic tribute to the United State’s anthem.
Following the Ode, acclaimed pianist Gideon Rubin will perform Beethoven’s Piano Concerto no. 5 in E-flat Major, op 73. Referred to as the Emperor concerto, the performance of this virtuosic concerto is a brilliant and powerful showcase of Ruben’s skill.
Following an intermission, NaBSCO will conclude the season with Jean Sibelius’ bold, dramatic, and deeply moving Symphony No. 1 in E minor, Op. 39. Written in 1899, this rich symphony evokes a range of emotions, from furious to sweet, through memorable musical themes.
Visit www.nabsco.org/events for more information about end of the 2026 concert season.
Admission is ‘Pay what you think is fair,’ and tickets can be purchased at the door or online in advance. 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 401274-4578.
7th Annual Strawberry Festival
June 21, 2026 11am Till 4 Pm Rain Or Shine!
Assonet Village Four Corners at the Bandstand Route 79
• Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Hot dogs and Lemonade
• Live music from Midnight Sun Country Band
• A great assortment of Crafters Fun for the whole family!
HELLO CRAFTERS!
Time to book your space! The Festival is coming soon! Father’s Day June 21st, 2026
Email: tuesdayclub.strawberryvendors@ gmail.com to book your space.
Exit 13 (Old Exit 10) from 24 South Exit 11 (Old Exit 9) From 24 North Our signs will lead you there! Free parking!
This annual Festival is held to provide scholarships for students from Freetown, MA
Sponsored by The Tuesday Club of Assonet and the Freetown Cultural Council, MA Cultural Council
www.tuesdayclubofassonet.org www.facebook.com Tuesday Club of Assonet
Like us on Facebook!
Metis Nation Craft Show
June 27, 2026 12 pm - 5pm Rain Or Shine
Christ Church
57 Main St. Swansea, Ma
Spaces $40 single - $55 double space.
Contact: Jewel for application and more information: Call or text at 508962-2803 or email pap628@comcast.net
EPHS Class of 1963 - The Last Hurrah!
Saturday, August 29 from 5 til at Davenport’s in East Providence 5 pm - cocktails, cheese and crackers 6 pm - Dinner Buffet
It’s hard to believe that we crossed that stage 63 years ago! In fact, the school and stage are no longer there!!
Please send a check for $40 to Betty Davey Dulude, 10 John Alden Road, Seekonk, MA 02771 by August 15.
AMERICANA ANTIQUE AUCTION
380 Winthrop Street, Rte. 44, Rehoboth, MA
SUPERB MAY ESTATES AUCTION
Gold Jewelry, Sterling Silver, Large Number of Gold & Silver Coins from Bank Vaults, Arts & Crafts, Period American Accessories, Furniture, Oil Paintings, and more!
Saturday, May 16, 2026 ~11am
LIVE ANTIQUE AUCTION IN REHOBOTH & ONLINE BIDDING
Previews: May 9th 9am-3pm, May 14th & 15th 9am-4pm, May 16th 9am to 11am. Telephone & absentee bids welcome! Online via liveauctioneers.com & invaluable.com
Ed Tessier, Jr., Auctioneer
We are the largest buyers of gold jewelry, sterling silver & antiques For more information, consignment and preview: www.americana-auction.com • 508-771-1722
Join the Benefactors of the Arts for the June 2026 Secret Garden Tours. Take a self-guided walking tour through Newport, RI’s historic Point section June 26-28 for the 42nd Annual Tour.
The tours run daily from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and tickets are limited with only 350 to be sold for each day. In Spring 2014, Conde Nast Traveler Magazine named Newport, Rhode Island “one of the best walking cities in the U.S.” and specifically mentioned The Secret Garden Tour through the city’s historic Point section as one of the highlights.
Tickets are now available for the 2026 Tours and can be purchased in advance online at www.secretgardentours.org for a discounted rate of $35. Be sure to check the Facebook page www. facebook.com/SecretGardenTours for updates, events, beautiful garden photos and more.
Since 1984, the organizers and supporters of The Secret Garden Tour have been dedicated to enhancing art education and cultural programs in Aquidneck Island’s Public Schools, funding dozens of programs in music, theater and fine arts for local schoolchildren. To date, The Secret Garden Tour has given more than $1 million to Aquidneck Island students in public schools for cultural programs and the arts.
For additional information, be sure to visit the website: www.secretgardentours.org
From Edinburgh to London: Book Lovers’ 2026 Literary Journey through the UK August 8–17, 2026
A new cultural travel opportunity organized by a local librarian will take book lovers from Scotland to England in the summer of 2026. Edinburgh to London: A Book Lovers’ Journey, scheduled for August 8–17, 2026 will span ten days and highlight the literary and historical landscapes of the United Kingdom. Participants will begin in Edinburgh, Scotland, a city recognized worldwide for its literary heritage and vibrant book scene, before heading south to explore York, Jane Austen’s Bath, Stratford-upon-Avon—birthplace of William Shakespeare—and the prehistoric monument of Stonehenge. The program, coordinated in conjunction with EF Go Ahead Tours, concludes in London, where travelers will experience the capital’s rich blend of history, architecture, and literary traditions. Travelers who wish to join a welcoming community of like-minded book lovers—sharing their passion for reading, culture, and discovery while exploring some of Britain’s most iconic destinations—are invited! For details, contact Suzanne Larson at SLarsonLMS@ gmail.com
First Christian Congregational Church May Events
Annual May Breakfast & Spring Craft Fair
The First Christian Congregational Church, UCC located at 1113 GAR Highway, Swansea, MA will be hosting our Annual May Breakfast on Saturday, May 2, 2026, from 8 – 11 am. Join us for a Traditional Breakfast while supporting Local Crafters and our very own Thrifty Shoppe. The cost for the breakfast is $15 for adults, $7 for children 6 – 10, and children 5 and under eat free! All are invited to come and enjoy the food, fellowship and fun!!
Strictly Sentimental Swing Band Concert
The First Christian Congregational Church, UCC located at 1113 GAR Highway, Swansea, MA will be hosting the Strictly Sentimental Swing Band on Monday, May 18, 2026, at 7:00 pm in our beautiful sanctuary. The Concert will feature an assortment of favorite Big Band Songs. Please plan to join with us. No fee, donations only.
Fire Safety Awareness Seminar
The First Christiain Congregational Church, UCC located at 1113 GAR Highway, Swansea, MA is hosting a Fire Safety Awareness Seminar led by Captain Bruce Antone from the Swansea Fire Department. This is an instructional program teaching fire safety in your home as well as when you are out in the community. This event is FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. All are welcome to attend this 40-minute program.
St. Nicholas of Myra Church News SPRING PLANT SALE
on MAY 16 from 8am to 2pm.
We will have annuals, perennials, herbs, vegetable and house plants. There will also be a Plant and Gift Certificate Raffle.
CLAM
BOIL on Saturday, May 9, at 5:30
Located in our church hall. Tickets can be purchased at our Parish office (508-822-1425). Adults: $40, Children 10 and under: $10. Deadline to purchase tickets is May 7 by 1pm.
St. Nicholas of Myra Church, 499 Spring Street, North Dighton
News from Second Congregational Church, UCC
We will be hosting the 42nd Annual May Breakfast on Saturday, May 2nd from 8-10:30 am. All are invited to attend. The breakfast includes scrambled eggs, home fries, french toast and our famous cinnamon rolls and beverages.
Adults $15, age 4-11 $5, 3 and under free. Call the Church Office for reservations: 508-222-4677.
“The Chosen” discussion group meets weekly on Wednesday nights at 6:30 pm - this interdenominational group is focusing on the television series (thechosen.tv), and continues to gain popularity.
Every month on the second Friday, this month May 8th , we host:
At 2:30 pm Crafternoon and Color our World - it is a good opportunity for fellowship and creativity. Crafternoon is an arts & crafts group, Color our World is a water painting group.
At 6-8pm Young Adult (ages 13 -22) Coffee House & Open Mic - this event offers the opportunity for fellow musicians to gather, practice performing and socialize. Simple refreshments are offered and chaperones are on site.
Every month on the second Saturday, this month May 9th, is an all ages Coffee House & Open Mic.
A community rock choir is using our Fellowship Hall weekly through August - they usually meet on Mondays 7-9pm. If anyone is interested they can find details at: www.RockVoices.com or email: info@rockvoices.com
Sunday May 17th at 3pm we will be hosting an Oure Pleasure Singers concert featuring the premier performance of a new composition: Abyssopelagic: A Choral Odyssey. There will be an opportunity to talk with the composer Nicholas Rocha at 2pm prior to the performance. Tickets are $20 at the door or in advance at EventBrite (see opsingers.org).
We will close out the month with our annual Indoor Yard Sale on Saturday, May 30th, from 9am - 12 noon.
50 Park Street, Attleboro MA 02703
508-222-4677
Community Covenant Church News
“Are you looking for help and hope? Every week at Community Covenant Church, we strive to bring that to everyone who walks through our door through the good news of the gospel of Jesus. Through relevant preaching and modern worship that engages all ages from birth to empty nesters. For more information on our programs and current sermon series, check out www.communitycovenant.church. We hope to see you in person this Sunday at 10 am.”
Newman
Congregational Church, UCC Announces
Community Craft Fair
Saturday, June 13, 2026 9 am – 2 pm
Vendors from our local communities will be selling their handcrafted goods, including jewelry, quilted items, soaps, ceramics, wreaths, and more!
This is an indoor & outdoor venue and will be happening rain or shine!
Bring your friends and see what treasures you can find!
Newman Congregational Church, United Church of Christ is located at 100 Newman Avenue, Rumford, RI 02916. For more information or to reserve a table, contact the Church Office at 401434-4742 X10.
Seekonk Congregational Church
Sunday Services
We hope you will join us each Sunday at Seekonk Congregational Church UCC at our weekly services with Communion in the Sanctuary at 600 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk, MA . All services & church school begin at 9:30 and all are welcome. Licensed infant/ preschool day care is available every week. So, check us out in person, you will be happy you did. We do record our service each Sunday and you can watch it on Seekonk Cable Xfinity Access channel 95 at 9 AM each day or there is a link on our Facebook and YouTube pages.
Men’s Coffee Connection
Calling all men to meet at Toti’s Restaurant
Tuesday, May 12th 7:07PM, Rt. 44 Seekonk MA. Hope all can make it to discuss upcoming BBQ and more.
New Member Seminar
We welcome anyone interested in joining SC-UCC or learning more about our church to attend on Sunday, May 17th In Room 6, after the Worship Service
Please call the church office (508)336-9355 to register so we know how many will be attending .
Pentecost
Join us as we celebrate the Birth of the Church
Sunday, May 24th 9:30AM in Worship WEAR SHADES OF RED AND ORANGE SPECIAL COFFEE HOUR with cake and ice cream.
BRING A GIFT FOR THE CHURCH
Church gifts can include paper towels, AA-AAA batteries, hand soup, tape, crayons/ markers, sharpies, dish soap, sponges, bottle brush, SOS pads, etc.
On-Going Mission Concerns & Needs
• The clothing shed is at the end of the County Street parking lot. Drop off your clothing, shoes, belts, purses, blankets, sheets, curtains, pillowcases or stuffed animal donations in a tied-up bag.
• CANS & BOTTLES MA deposit Only: Save the environment and people!! Bring donations to the green bins - Fall River Ave parking lot - lift lid - drop in clean bottles and cans. DEPOSIT ONLY, no water bottles please.
• FOOD PANTRY (in Porch Area) is for anyone you know who has financial challenges Needed: canned meats, tuna, Cereals, stew, peanut butter, paper goods, cereal bars, tuna pouches, crackers - Check the expiration dates
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.
LO cAL FArMs
Rehoboth: Preserving a Proud Farming Tradition
Nestled in southeastern Massachusetts, Rehoboth has long been known for its rich agricultural heritage, scenic countryside, and strong sense of community. Often referred to as “The Birthplace of Public Education in North America,” Rehoboth is equally proud of its deep farming roots that continue to shape the town’s identity today. With rolling fields, family-owned farms, horse properties, and roadside farm stands, agriculture remains a vital part of everyday life in the community. Rehoboth is also recognized as a Right to Farm community, a designation that supports and protects the town’s agricultural traditions and the farmers who sustain them.
This commitment helps preserve open land, encourages local food production, and ensures that farming practices can continue for future generations. Residents and visitors alike appreciate the opportunity to enjoy fresh produce, seasonal flowers, locally raised livestock, and community events centered around the area’s farms. From multi-generational dairy farms to small specialty growers, Rehoboth’s agricultural community reflects hard work, resilience, and hometown pride. Supporting local farms not only strengthens the local economy but also helps preserve the rural character that makes Rehoboth such a special place to live and visit.
Moonrose Farm
Moonrose Farm is a small farm in Rehoboth focused on growing vegetables, flowers, and plant starts using organic practices. Throughout the month of May, Moonrose Farm offers a wide selection of organically grown garden plants for sale. With an emphasis on soil health, the farm produces strong, reliable plants suited to local growing conditions. This includes vegetable starts, culinary herbs, and flowers chosen for their performance in New England gardens. All plants are started and grown on-site in organic, compost-based soil without synthetic chemicals, giving home gardeners healthy, well-established seedlings ready to plant.
The farm stand is open Friday through Sunday from 9 AM to 4 PM. Visitors will find a rotating selection of farm-grown produce, including greens, root vegetables, and fresh-cut flowers. Inventory is updated regularly based on what’s in season, ensuring a consistent and fresh selection. The farm accepts cash, cards, digital payments, as well as SNAP and HIP benefits.
Moonrose Farm also offers a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program, with limited shares still available. The CSA provides a steady supply of seasonal produce and flowers throughout the growing season. More information about share options, schedule, and pickup is available at .
In addition to plants and produce, the farm stand features fresh baked goods made with thoughtfully sourced ingredients, including sourdough breads and a rotating selection of pastries. Pasture-raised eggs are also available from hens fed a non-GMO diet. The focus is on providing simple, high-quality food and locally grown products.
Kave Rock Farm
Kave Rock Farm is a welcoming, small-scale working farm in Rehoboth, Massachusetts, known for its award-winning alpacas and memorable visitor experiences. What began in 2012 with the unexpected addition of four prize-winning female alpacas has since grown into a thriving herd of 20 to 25 animals, all raised with attentive care and deep knowledge.
Guests are invited to take part in free weekly visits, where they can meet the alpacas up close and learn more about their daily care and the inner workings of the farm. In addition to breeding and selling alpacas, the farm offers unique off-site experiences, including weddings and birthday appearances, giving people a chance to include these gentle animals in meaningful celebrations. An alpaca foster program is also available, allowing supporters to play a more personal role in the animals’ care and well-being.
Kave Rock Farm also takes pride in offering premium alpaca fiber goods, with the vast majority of products made right here in
the United States. Their online shop features a growing collection of warm, durable items—from clothing to handcrafted accessories— highlighting the quality and versatility of alpaca fiber.
Highly regarded by visitors and customers alike, Kave Rock Farm has become a favorite destination for those interested in alpacas and locally made products. Located at 142 Reservoir Ave in Rehoboth, the farm welcomes guests to stop by, meet the herd, and enjoy a truly one-of-a-kind farm experience. More details, including products and visiting information, can be found at kaverockalpaca.com.
More than just a farm, Kave Rock offers a place to slow down, connect with animals, and appreciate thoughtfully made goods. Through its focus on sustainability, community involvement, and exceptional care, it continues to provide a special experience for visitors of all ages.
Pleasant Street Family Farm
Welcome to Pleasant Street Family Farm—a charming, familyowned destination where community, creativity, and country life come together. Tucked away in the heart of Rehoboth, our farm offers a warm and inviting space for families, friends, and neighbors to visit and make meaningful memories all year long.
At Pleasant Street Family Farm, every season brings something special. In the spring, we come alive with colorful flowers and tulips, along with our much-loved Easter Bash featuring baby goats, bunnies, and chicks. Families can enjoy hayrides, scavenger hunts, crafts, and hands-on experiences that kids and adults alike will remember long after the day ends.
As the seasons change, so do the experiences. In the fall, our family-friendly haunted hayrides offer just the right mix of spooky fun and laughter—perfect for all ages looking to celebrate the season
in a safe and festive way. When winter arrives, the farm transforms into a cozy holiday destination, where families can pick out the perfect Christmas tree, visit with Santa and enjoy the magic of the season together.
We also offer fresh farm eggs for sale, giving visitors a chance to take home a taste of the farm. During the growing season we offer watermelon, corn, cucumbers, squash and many other fruits and vegetables grown on site with no herbicides or pesticides. Alongside our food items, we proudly support local artisans and small businesses by offering a curated selection of handmade goods, sweet treats, and custom gift items. In addition to the main holidays, we have unique gifts and home decor for each occasion including Mother’s day, teacher appreciation week, graduation, father’s day, birthdays etc. From fresh floral arrangements to unique seasonal finds, there’s always something new to discover during your visit.
locally made decor and artisan crafts – perfect for your home or as seasonal gifts!
Souza Family Farm
Souza Family Farm has long played an important role in the local farming community, known for growing top-quality produce and plants while traditionally focusing on wholesale operations. This season, the farm is enhancing its retail experience with an expanded farm stand, bringing a greater variety of fresh offerings directly to customers and inviting more visitors to enjoy what locally grown agriculture has to offer.
Kicking off the season with color and vibrancy, the farm features a beautiful selection of flowers, including impatiens, marigolds, Gerbera daisies, geraniums, and
other lively annuals perfect for brightening gardens and outdoor spaces. Their signature hanging baskets continue to be a favorite, now joined by eye-catching mixed arrangements designed for maximum visual appeal. Festive red, white, and blue planters add a patriotic flair, ideal for summer celebrations and honoring special occasions.
As the growing season unfolds, customers can look forward to an expanding lineup of fresh fruits and vegetables. Early harvests will include crisp lettuce and fresh salad greens, followed by seasonal favorites like summer squash, zucchini, green beans, and sweet, ripe blueberries. Each item is carefully grown and picked at just the right time to ensure exceptional flavor and quality.
Souza Family Farm’s dedication to freshness and consistency is evident in every product they offer. The same care and attention that built their reputation continues to guide their approach, now with an even broader selection for customers to enjoy. From colorful flowers and garden-ready herbs to farm-fresh produce, every visit offers something special while supporting local agriculture.
Located at 25 Agricultural Ave in Rehoboth, MA, Souza Family Farm invites the community to stop by and experience the season’s best, straight from the source.
Fine’s
Nursery
Fine’s Nursery is dedicated to cultivating native trees, shrubs, and plants that help restore healthy, sustainable landscapes throughout the community. Rooted in a fifthgeneration family farm in Rehoboth, the nursery continues a long agricultural tradition that began in the early 1900s. Today, the family is launching Trillium Preserve, a reforestation and habitat restoration project on the former Fine Farms property. Inspired by USDA and Massachusetts DCR “Food Forest” models, the preserve will feature native hardwoods, chestnut groves, berry bushes, and wildlifefriendly plantings designed to support birds, pollinators, and future generations.
Over the decades, the Fine family became known for greenhouse production, Christmas trees, and the beloved Corn Crib farm stand, a longtime local landmark. Fine’s Nursery now focuses on re-establishing native forests by growing oaks, maples, birches, beeches, pines, cedars, and blightresistant chestnuts and elms while removing invasive species. By offering locally grown, drought-resistant native plants, the nursery hopes to encourage sustainable landscaping practices and strengthen biodiversity across the region for years to come.
Be sure to visit their plant sales on May 16th and May 23rd! They are locatred at 8 Smith Street in Rehoboth.
NATIVE PLANT SALE
Oakdale Farms
Tucked away in the heart of Rehoboth, Massachusetts, Oakdale Farms Country Barn & Garden Shop offers more than just fresh produce—it provides a genuine connection to local agriculture, family tradition, and wholesome living. Located at 61 Wheaton Ave, this beloved farm stand invites visitors to experience food the way it was meant to be: fresh, local, and grown with care.
Farming at Oakdale is more than a business - it’s a legacy. The land dates back to 1918, when Charles and Etta Pray began a dairy farm on the very soil still in use today. In 1952, it passed to their son, Richard Kenneth, Sr., and in 1966, Richard Kenneth, Jr. and his wife Marie established what is now Oakdale Farms. Marie brought her own farming roots from Lane Gardens in Dighton, combining her agricultural knowledge with Richard’s tireless work ethic to build a thriving vegetable and horticulture farm.
In 2019, the next generation took the reins as their daughter Laura and her husband, Michael Smith, assumed leadership of the farm. Today, that legacy continues forward with their daughter, Madison, and her husband, Cody, carrying on the tradition - ensuring the farm’s future remains firmly rooted in family values.
Today, Oakdale Farms proudly grows a wide variety of vegetables, fruits, herbs, and eggs, along with offering plants for home gardens. Visitors can also enjoy homemade jams, pickles, relishes, and baked goods. Their CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) Farm Shares provide a meaningful way for customers to receive seasonal produce while directly supporting local farming.
Osamequin Farm Kicks Off the Growing Season
Annual Memorial Day Weekend Plant Sale!
Osamequin Farm is an educational non-profit and community space off Prospect St in Seekonk. We host a cooperative of small scale farmers on the land and produce our own organically grown veggies, herbs, flowers, and PYO blueberries.
At our plant sale, you can shop for all the classic veggies and some unique varieties, specialty cut flowers, culinary and medicinal herbs, native plants for your pollinator garden, and gardening supplies. Support our work and bring home robust, healthy garden starts! All grown from seed in our greenhouse here in Seekonk. Shopping begins Saturday May 23 at 9am and continues through Monday, while inventory lasts.
Located at the corner of Walnut St and Prospect St, Seekonk.
Equally important is their commitment to sustainability. Oakdale Farms uses environmentally friendly practices, avoiding chemicals and instead enriching the soil with natural compost. Their crops are grown from heirloom, organic, and untreated seeds—ensuring both quality and care for the land.
Open weekends in May from 10 am to 4 pm, the farm offers a welcoming, relaxed shopping experience. They accept cash, credit cards, and SNAP-HIP benefits, making fresh, local food accessible to many.
To stay connected and see what’s fresh from the farm, follow along on Facebook and Instagram, where they share updates and glimpses of daily farm life. Oakdale Farms isn’t just a place to shop, it’s a place to belong.
Products that we grow: ~ Vegetables, Fruits, Herbs, and Eggs ~ ~ Plants: Vegetables, Fruits, and Herbs ~ Products that we make: ~ Jam, Pickles, Relish, Baked Goods ~
May Hours: Saturday & Sunday, 10am to 4pm CSA - Community Supported Agriculture Farm Shares Payments accepted: Cash, Credit Cards, SNAP-HIP Oakdale Farms Country Barn & Garden Shop 61 Wheaton Ave, Rehoboth, MA ~ 508-336-7681
A Weekend of Art, Storytelling, and Community at Osamequin Farm
Last month, Osamequin Farm welcomed an incredible turnout as guests gathered to experience the inspiring visit of Victoria Wyeth. Throughout the weekend, the farm came alive with conversations about art, landscape, memory, and the powerful connection between creativity and place. Victoria captivated audiences with heartfelt stories about her grandfather, legendary American painter Andrew Wyeth, sharing personal memories of his life, artistic process, and deep connection to rural landscapes. She also spoke warmly to the children about her uncle, artist Jamie Wyeth, encouraging young artists to observe the world around them and find inspiration in everyday moments.
From students and local artists to families and longtime supporters of the farm, attendees enjoyed a welcoming atmosphere filled with creativity and community spirit. Fresh lemonade was served as guests explored the grounds, viewed youth artwork inspired by the Wyeth tradition, and gathered beneath the spring skies to celebrate art rooted in the land. The weekend beautifully reflected the mission of Osamequin Presents — bringing people together through thoughtful cultural experiences connected to nature, history, and shared stories. Many left inspired not only by Victoria’s stories, but by the reminder that art often grows from the places and people we hold closest.
Victoria introduces her featured presentation: I Paint My Life.
Members of the Jencks family enjoy Victoria’s feature presentation.
Victoria Wyeth passing around Master Homemade donut holes during the art making portion of the Sunday family event.
Photos by Eric Korenman.
Victoria Wyeth during her family presentation on Sunday morning.
Crossing Season… Please Slow Down and Let Them Cross Roads Safely.
In May and June, aquatic turtles such as the eastern painted turtle and the American snapping turtle will be leaving their watery habitats of ponds, rivers, and wetlands to set out and find suitable nesting sites to lay their eggs. For many, this includes crossing many of our busy roadways.
According to the Wildlife Clinic of Rhode Island, the organization received 42 turtles in 2025 that had been hit by cars. This is why it is critical that drivers slow down when passing close to ponds, rivers, and wetlands in the spring.
Land turtles such as the eastern box turtle, and semi-aquatic species like the wood turtle, are also susceptible to road mortality. These species look for sandy or loamy soil in fields, open woods, and occasionally on people's lawns for nesting sites. Having already crossed the road once to lay eggs, these turtles will cross yet again to return to their habitats. It’s dangerous for a slow-moving turtle to be on a busy road.
The eggs deposited in spring will hatch in late August to early September. Many hatchlings will also attempt to cross roadways to reach watery habitats. You can help ensure safe crossings by slowing down on the roads and watching for our native turtles. You can help a turtle cross the road.
Rhode Island Division of Fish and Wildlife provides recommendations for handling turtles when helping them to cross roadways. Be aware and careful of passing cars.
• Please support the turtle by using both hands, one on each side of the shell, between the front and back legs.
• Carry the turtle across the road in the direction it was heading and place it a few feet off the road.
• Never hold a turtle just by its top shell or carapace, as this will hurt it, and will not give you a secure hold on it. You also never want to grab a turtle by its tail, as this too will cause pain and injury.
• For large snapping turtles, gently shepherd it across the road with a stick or a broom or get help in herding a large snapping turtle across the road.
• Never relocate a turtle, it is stressful to the turtle and can cause death.
You can help alert drivers. Audubon is offering yard signs to alert drivers of potential wildlife crossings and asking them to lower their speed. If you live near a pond or wetland, help wildlife by placing a sign in your yard for the months of May, June, August, and September. Visit https://asri.org/wildlife-crossing for details and to order your sign today.
Wild turtles need to remain in the wild. Although many are charmed by native turtles, any species found in the wild should never be kept as a pet. In Rhode Island, it is illegal to remove an any native reptile of amphibian from the wild, as many of them face severe population declines that could lead to local extinction.
Let’s Shell-ebrate Turtles!
World Turtle Day
May 23, 2026; 10:00am-3:00pm
Celebrate World Turtle Day with your family at the Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium! Read a turtle story and make your own turtle craft to bring home. Then meet
turtles up-close and personal while discovering the secrets of different turtle species, their unique habits, and the roles they play in the ecosystem. Turtle crossing signs will be available for purchase. No need to register! Programs are included with admission. All day: Craft Table
10:00am: Turtle Story
11:00am: Turtle Meet & Greet
1:00pm: Turtle Nature Walk
2:30pm: Turtle Meet & Greet
Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, 1401 Hope Street, Bristol, RI; Free with Admission. Ages: All.
SouthCoast Pressure Wash
Spring is in Full Swing! May 2026 Highlights from the Audubon Society of Rhode Island
Grab a friend and hit the trails for FREE guided birding outings, pick up a paintbrush at the Audubon Maxwell Mays Art Studio, celebrate World Turtle Day, or explore the trails under the light of a full moon! Get out and enjoy the warmer weather on the wildlife refuges – it’s spring!
Unless noted, registration is required for all programs. Register online and view a complete listing of programs through the events calendar at www.asri.org/calendar.
Residential & Commercial
Audubon May Birding Van Trip
Locations Across the State
May 11, 2026; 7:30am-4:00pm; Climb aboard the Audubon van and explore the many birding hot spots of Rhode Island during this exciting time of the year. Warblers, vireos and other spring beauties will make for an unforgettable trip. Visit favorite birding spots as well as some lesser-known locations. Be sure to pack a lunch and bring your binoculars.
Audubon Nature Tales Storytime
Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, Bristol, RI May 14, June 11, 2026; 10:00am-10:45pm
Join Audubon for our monthly Nature Tales Storytime designed especially for children ages 3 to 5. Each session features a naturethemed story followed by hands-on activities that connect the story to the natural world and encourage curiosity and learning.
Audubon Wetland Investigations
Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, Bristol, RI May 16, June 23, 2026; 11:00am-12:00pm
Discover the hidden life of the wetlands with Audubon! Learn about the important role these habitats play in our ecosystems. Then grab a net and dip into the water to see what creatures call the wetland home, from tadpoles to water beetles. Use magnifiers, ID guides, and your curiosity to explore this vital habitat up close.
Horseshoe Crab Expedition: Conimicut Point
Conimicut Point Park, Warwick, RI
May 17, 2026; 6:30-8:00pm
Join Audubon to learn about the fascinating anatomy and life history of horseshoe crabs, and their important role in coastal ecosystems. Start the expedition with an engaging lecture and then spend the rest of the time walking along the beach in search of these captivating critters!
Spring Cleaning Workshop
Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, Bristol, RI
May 17, 2026; 3:30-4:30pm
Spring cleaning time is here! Join Audubon to learn how to make your own eco-friendly cleaning supplies. Learn how to make eco-friendly toilet cleaner and then make your own to take home.
Babes In the Woods
Audubon Caratunk Wildlife Refuge, May 23, 2026; 12:00-2:00pm
Come learn about Rhode Island's wildlife babies while enjoying a sweet treat! Discover when certain species mate, discuss different parenting styles, and changes in behavior. Meet one of our tiniest owls and end with a springtime stroll to look for signs of wildlife. For ages 9 and up.
Stamp & Sip Cardmaking Workshop
Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, Bristol, RI
May 28, 2026; 6:00-8:00 pm
Create handmade cards inspired by blooming landscapes, birds and the natural world. Create three designs using a variety of techniques. Materials are provided and all skill levels welcome. Advance registration is required - sign up now for this relaxing, hands-on experience.
News and Notes from Blanding Library
Matt York Returns May 13
Johnny Cash and Bob Dylan will be the musical focus of Matt York, who returns to the library on Wed. May 13 at 6:30. In this musical evening, Matt will play the songs of Bob Dylan and Johhny Cash and discuss how the musical friendship of these two icons helped merge country and folk traditions.
Matt York has twice been nominated for the Boston Music Award for Best Country Artist and he recently released his second book, The Words and Wisdom of Willie Nelson. This free program is supported in part by a grant from the Rehoboth Local Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.
Create a Fairy House May 9
Create an abode for your garden fairy on Sat. May 9 from 1-3. Materials will be provided; however, you are welcome to bring things to add or share. Ages 5 and up. Please call to register.
Crafting Wine Bottle Wind Chimes
Join us on Wed. May 27 at 6:30 for crafting a wine bottle wind chime to hang up at home and catch the summer breeze. Free; all materials provided. Ages 15 and up. Space is limited; please call to register.
New Writers’ Group
Are you interested in writing and sharing your writing with others? There will be a meeting on Wed. May 20 at 4 pm at the library to establish interests, and discuss plans in greater detail, as we establish interests and organize a day and time for a monthly meeting.
Story Hours & More
• Join Jocelyn from PACE for Stories and Songs for Littles on Mon. May 4 at 10:30.
• Tot Time with Miss Joyce for children under 3 is on Tuesdays at 10:30 and Story Hours with Miss Cathy for children ages 3 and up is on Thursdays at 10:30. Siblings are welcome to both groups.
• Legos at the Library will next be offered on Sat. May 9. Stop by between 11 and 2 to make something special.
Children’s Book Sale in June
There will be a sale of gently used books for children of all ages June 9-11 during library hours, or until all books are gone. $4.00/bag. Bring your own bag or get one
here. Adults must be accompanied by a child. Check the library’s calendar for times. Sponsored by The Friends of the Blanding Library.
Seeking Book Donations
It’s not too early to bring donations of used books for all ages to the library, as we look ahead to the Friends of the Blanding Library annual book sale in October. Please bring your donations of used books in good condition into the library during business hours.
Ongoing Programs
• The weekly history discussion group led by Hank Coleman meets at 11am each Wednesday. Open to all with an interest in history; for more information contact hjcoleman@comcast.net.
• The Blanding offers two monthly book groups; one meets on Monday evenings and one on Wednesday afternoons. Call the library for more information.
• Knit Night at the library meets one Thursday evening a month from 6:30 to 8. For adults and teens to get together and work on their knitting projects.
You can find more information and news about programs and events at the library on https://rehobothantiquarian.org/blandinglibrary/ You can also sign-up for a monthly library email letter on this site. You can also find the Blanding Library on Facebook or call the library at 508-252-4236.
By Leslie Patterson
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 Mon. May 25 for Memorial Day.
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Consider A Contribution From The Friends of the Blanding Library!
Thanks to the generous support of our community, The Friends of the Blanding Public Library proudly funded a wide range of free programs in 2025—from children’s activities and family yoga to science presentations, music events, our summer reading challenge and the annual holiday gingerbread event. As a volunteer-driven nonprofit, we remain committed to enriching our library and expanding opportunities for all.
While our recent fundraising efforts—including the annual book sale and raffle— remain strong, we are working to grow membership and community awareness so we can continue offering these valuable programs at no cost.
Join us in shaping another successful year! Mark your calendar for our 2026 Book Sale & Raffle Weekend (October 9–11) and consider supporting The Friends through membership or donations. Together, we keep our library vibrant, welcoming, and a valuable resource for the entire community.
** Donations can be mailed to The Friends of The Blanding Library, PO Box 464, Rehoboth, MA 02769
** Donations of books in good condition can be brought at any time to The Blanding Library to support the 2026 Book Sale & Raffle.
Seekonk Public Library
Friends of the Seekonk Public Library
Thank you to those who purchased bags from Stop & Shop during the month of April. The dollar we receive for each special bag helps us to support Library programming. That along with daily and quarterly book sales allows us to provide funding for things such as the Summer Reading program, maintaining the subscription to BookPage, free outdoor concerts, and the the community garden to name just a few.
If you are interested in becoming a lobby volunteer, applications can be found on our website at www.seekonkfol.org or you can ask one of the volunteers in the lobby for one. If you have ideas on how we can provide more funding for the library and would like to join our board, you can contact us at friends@seekonkpl.org.
Parade Viewing at Seekonk Library
Saturday, May 23
The community is invited to gather at Seekonk Library’s front lawn to enjoy the annual Seekonk Memorial Day Parade on Saturday, May 23.
Bring family and friends, a lawn chair or blanket, and enjoy the parade from a great viewing location. The parade will step-off from Seekonk High School at 10 AM, proceed down Arcade Ave, turn onto Newman Ave, and conclude at Hurley Middle School. Following the parade, there will be a Memorial Day ceremony at the Seekonk Veterans Memorial Park, adjacent to the Library.
The Library will be open from 9 AM to 5 PM, with public restrooms available.
Seekonk Paper Shred Day
Saturday, June 6 from 9 AM- noon
The Seekonk Recycling Committee and Seekonk Public Library will host a Seekonk Shred Day on Saturday, June 6, 2026 from 9 AM to 12 noon at Seekonk’s Town Hall, 100 Peck St, Seekonk, MA. Seekonk residents and library cardholders can drop-in anytime to deposit items in the secure shredding truck in the Town Hall lot. Non-residents can participate from 11 AM to noon.
Bring your confidential paper items to Town Hall for secure, on-site destruction and recycling at the ProShred mobile shredding truck onsite. Be prepared to bring your own material to the truck and carry away your empty bags or boxes.
There is a limit of two bags or boxes per trip.
This is a rain or shine event.
Register online at seekonkpl.org/events to receive email in case there are any changes to the event.
For more information, email or call Recycling Coordinator Christine Zadykovich at czadykovich@seekonk-ma.govor 508336-7407, or Seekonk Library Adult Services at library@seekonkpl. org, 508-336-8230.
Cultural Workshop
Wednesday, June 10 at 6 PM
Join us at Seekonk Public Library for a unique and inspiring cultural experience! On Wednesday, June 10 at 6 PM, adults are invited to attend “Elegant Draping: How to Wear a Saree,” a handson presentation from an area resident exploring the timeless beauty and tradition of the Indian saree, also spelled “sari.” This program is free and open to the public. For planning purposes and to receive program updates, please register in the online Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events.
More than just a garment, the saree is a cultural symbol that is rich in history, identity, and artistry. In this program, you will learn about saree-wearing traditions and the many draping styles highlighting the garment’s elegance and versatility. You’ll get to experience the intricate details of wearing a saree with a live demonstration. Whether you’re curious about global fashion, interested in South Asian culture, or simply want to appreciate this iconic style, this program offers something for everyone. Come celebrate global traditions and learn how a length of fabric becomes a work of art — one graceful fold at a time.
For more information or for help with registration, call Adult Services at 508-336-8230 x56130 or email library@seekonkpl.org
Learn About Bokashi Composting for All Foods and Small Spaces
Thursday, June 11 at 6 PM
If you’ve found the food sorting for traditional composting to be too much of a chore to maintain, this could be for you! Learn an easy and effective method for reducing household food waste at “Bokashi Composting 101: Less Space, Less Waste” at Seekonk Library on June 11 at 6 PM. This informative presentation provided by Epic Renewal will introduce you to bokashi composting, a fermentation-based process that turns everyday kitchen scraps, including meat and dairy, into nutrient-rich soil—without requiring a large outdoor setup.
Ideal for apartment dwellers, busy households, and anyone interested in sustainable living, bokashi composting offers a compact, low-maintenance alternative to traditional composting. Learn how the process works, what materials can be composted, and how to get started at home using a simple bucket system.
This program is free and open to the public. All experience levels are welcome.
Register online at seekonkpl.org/events to receive email in case there are any changes to the event.
For more information, email Adult Services at library@seekonkpl.org or call 508-336-8230.
Scouting Around
Seekonk Scouts April Activities
Seekonk Troop 1 and Troop 9 Scouts recently enjoyed a weekend camping trip to Camp Yawgoog in Rockville, Rhode Island. Scouts spent the weekend at Camp Yawgoog’s Hidden Lake campsite, which required a short 15-minute hike with all of their equipment as Hidden Lake is only accessible by foot. Scouts played a scavenger hunt game, relaxed by the lake and campfires, hiked, and had the opportunity to practice first aid skills. Scouts also worked on rank advancements and basic camping skills.
Several Troop 1 Scouts are working on completing their cycling merit badge. The Scouts are learning mountain biking and began with a seven-mile ride on the East Bay Bike path and 16 mile ride on the Blackstone Valley Bike path in Lincoln, RI. Scouts are planning additional bike trips to Cape Cod. Troop 1 and Troop 9 Scouts began their Horsemanship Merit Badge. Scouts were introduced to horseback riding at Epona Equine Eventing in Seekonk, MA. Seekonk Scouts continue to work on earning merit badges including cooking, swimming, and camping.
This month two Troop 9 Scouts were recognized for reaching the rank of Eagle. Eagle Scout is the highest scout rank and obtained by only 5% of all scouts.
For more information about Scouts, contact Troop1SeekonkMA@gmail.com for boys or Troop9SeekonkMA@gmail.com for girls. Scouting is open to all boys and girls between the ages of 11 and 17. Follow us on Social Media for Scouting events, fundraising, and Eagle Scout projects happening around town: Troop 1 Seekonk and Troop 9 Seekonk.
Seekonk Scouts Honored for Community Conservation Efforts
Scout Troops 1 and 9 of Seekonk were honored with the Mary C. Wilson Community Conservation Award by the Seekonk Land Conservation Trust (SLCT) at its Annual Meeting on April 29, 2026. This annual award recognizes individuals or groups who have made outstanding contributions to the protection of natural resources and open space in Seekonk.
The Scouts were recognized for their ongoing support of SLCT initiatives, including trail maintenance, brush clearing, trash removal, and the recent construction of a new kiosk at the Martin Wildlife Refuge as part of a Eagle Scout project. Troop leader Michelle
Danzer-Gries along with Chris Jeffrey and Amy Doherty was recognized for her dedication, hard work, and commitment to both the Scouts and the Land Trust.
SLCT President Tom Webb presented the award before an audience of approximately 75 attendees gathered at the Seekonk Public Library for the organization’s 2026 Annual Meeting.
Seekonk Scouts receive the Mary C. Wilson Community Conservation Award from the Seekonk Land Conservation Trust. Pictured from left to right: Addie Doherty, Mason Doherty, and Michael Jeffrey
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May
the Force Fuel the Fire: D-R and Seekonk Continue their Spring Seasons
By Mikey Alves
The weather is getting warmer and the energy is getting higher just a little over a month into the spring season. Defending champions look to repeat as kings of their Massachusetts state divisions—while underdogs who haven’t yet claimed state titles—look to put their name on the map come playoffs…
D-R Girls Softball
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took down Greater New Bedford Voc. 4-3 off yet another walk-off hit in the bottom of the seventh inning. Then the Falcons dominated Bourne 16-1, making a statement that they’re still indeed the “team to beat” in all of MIAA Division III.
D-R Boys Baseball
Yes, the D-R softball program has certainly excelled recently— but the school’s baseball program also has achieved greatness before. The Dighton-Rehoboth Falcons baseball team were MIAA D2 State Champs in 2016, and are looking to make it back to another
The Falcons girls softball team is a Commonwealth powerhouse. The back-to-back MIAA Division III State Champions are currently the 2nd ranked MIAA D3 team, and are as hot as concrete pavement in the summer. On April 8, 2026—a spectacular walk-off homer from Falcons Kylie Smith against their SCC and MIAA Division 3 rivals Case High, skyrocketed this team’s confidence to go on a 6-game win streak. Their win streak came to an end, but against a team in which “dominant” is not an accurate term to describe their extreme success—the Taunton Tigers. This game between D-R and Taunton softball could’ve quite literally been a candidate for “matchup of the decade.” The back-to-back D3 State Champions Dighton-Rehoboth Falcons—vs. The Taunton Tigers—an absolute juggernaut of a program who has quintuple-peated as MIAA Division I State Champions. Yes—you read that correctly—five straight years as state champs. The D-R girls team had a very high-scoring affair against Taunton, falling short against Taunton 18-10. But the Falcons put up a tremendous fight—especially when you realize Taunton was on a 60+ game win streak. In fact, it extended to 65-games which most recently came to an end in a cross-state battle against LaSalle Academy; 1,070 days without the feeling of a single loss for Taunton softball. But the girls proved this tough loss to Taunton would not steer them off track—they bounced right back in their next two games. On Monday, April 27th, they Custom Fabrications • Kitchen Countertops
state title being currently ranked the 22nd MIAA Division III baseball team. After suffering a close loss in a 10-inning game to Oliver Ames High to open up their season, the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High baseball team went on a five-game win streak. D-R outscored their opponents 38-10 over their winning streak to start the season 5-1, putting on display how solid this team is on both sides of the plate. Following their win streak, the Falcons had a tough slate of games. They dropped a couple of games to a talented Somerset-Berkley team 6-3 on Wednesday, April 22nd, then lost a nail-biter to New Bedford Voc-Tech 4-3 in extra innings on Monday, April 27th. D-R baseball most recently overcame a wonky start against Old Rochester when Falcons sidearm Caleb Thurston reliever retired the next four hitters he faced after coming into the game in the fifth inning, before Eric Melo closed the door with a scoreless top of the seventh. A few errors from ORR led the Falcons to steal a 9-5 lead, with D-R ultimately taking home the game 10-5. Third baseman Cole Viveiros led the way for the Falcons swinging the bat, going 3-for-3 with two doubles, an RBI and two runs scored, while Gavin Hayden, Jordan Castro and Nate Rioux all finished with two hits themselves.
D-R Boys Lacrosse
Moving onto D-R boys lacrosse, this team is currently the 47th ranked MIAA D3 team. After suffering a crushing 20-1 defeat to Falmouth to kickstart their season, the boys have bounced back, most recently taking down Seekonk 7-6 and Dartmouth 8-6. Jack Horrocks led the way for D-R against Seekonk racking up two goals and an assist, as well as three forced turnovers.
D-R Girls Lacrosse
The D-R girls lacrosse team is off to a 6-1 record to start their spring campaign and are currently the 22nd ranked MIAA D3 team. Despite losing their season opener to Fairhaven 9-8, the girls were on fire going a 6-game win streak. Their last win on that streak occurred when they defeated SCC rival Apponoquet on April 27th after a huge comeback win. Down 5-2 at halftime, they ripped the game away from Apponoquet’s hands, concluding the game with a 9-7 win. The Falcons had beaten Apponoquet in girls lacrosse for the first time in the program’s history, doing the same against Old Rochester last season in 2025. D-R’s Gina Papa had four goals and two assists, while SCC field hockey MVP Reese Jefferson and Ainsley Zibrida both had two goals and an assist apiece. Alexis Pettinato
also had a goal while Kelsey Palmer, Bella Bouchard, and Lily Swan all recorded an assist. The team’s streak came to an end most recently against Bridgewater-Raynham 11-9.
D-R Boys Tennis
The D-R boys tennis team is the 29th ranked MIAA D3 team at 2-3 to start the season, while the girls tennis team is the 17th ranked MIAA D3 team. Most recently, on Tuesday, April 28th, the Dighton-Rehoboth girls team beat Wareham 4-1.
D-R Boys Volleyball
The Falcons boys volleyball team are the 28th ranked D2 team, recently losing to Argosy Collegiate Charter 3-2 on Tuesday, April 28th. The Falcons won the first set 2520, lost the second set 25-17, then they came back to take the third set 25-15, dropping the fourth set to Argosy 25-23, with Argosy closing out the game winning 15-6 in the fifth and final set.
Seekonk Boys Baseball
Moving along across towns, the Seekonk boys baseball team won a tough, extremely low-scoring battle on the road against Case High 1-0 on April 27th. Austin Robinson scored the one, lone run of the game for the W. Most impressively though, Cole Arruda dominated on the mound pitching an incredible 15-strikeout no-hitter. Arruda’s no-hitter only adds to his successful start to the season. In his first five starts this year for Seekonk, he has a 0.93 ERA, only
10 hits allowed across 30 innings, including 41-strikeouts. Both seniors Arruda and Robinson have proved exactly why they were chosen as the team’s captains. Most recently, Seekonk baseball beat Attleboro 5-3 on Saturday, May 2nd, putting up a strong allaround performance across the field. The boys look to build on their 8-4 record and current four-game win streak against local rival Dighton-Rehoboth.
Seekonk Girls Softball
Seekonk girls softball were shutout 14-0 by the monster threetime MIAA State Champions Case Cardinals on April 27th. Cardinals Lila Alvarez pitched a one-hit shutout plus put away eight batters, while she also contributed with four hits and two RBIs at the plate. Cailyn Durand had four hits, including a double, triple, home run and four RBIs. Sydney Furtado and Aubrey Tekippe each finished with three hits, and Alyanna DeJesus played stellar defense at shortstop. Case has won six matchups by nine runs or more this season.
Seekonk Girls Tennis
The Seekonk girls tennis teamlost to an undefeated Old Rochester 5-0 on April 27th. The ORR Bulldogs (7-0, 6-0 SCC) got wins from No. 1 Neva Matos (6-0, 6-0), No. 2 Caroline Houdelette (6-1, 6-2), No. 3 Grace Hebert (6-2, 6-1), the first doubles team of Ella Bishop and Zadie Goyette (6-1, 6-4) and the second doubles team of Paige Marotta and Molly Franco (6-2, 6-0). Even so, the girls tennis team bounced back with a 3-2 win over Bourne on as the Warriors won once in singles and took both doubles matches. Seekonk’s second doubles team of Jenna Girouard and Emily Bannister won 6-2, 6-0.
Seekonk Boys Tennis
On the boys tennis side for Seekonk—it was the same picture that was painted—Old Rochester also took down Seekonk boys tennis 5-0. The undefeated Bulldogs (8-0, 5-0 SCC) got straight set wins from No. 1 Subhav Parajuli, No. 2 Andrew Hebert and No. 3 Caden Gonsalves. Seekonk also dropped a game to Bourne 4-1 recently.
Seekonk Girls Lacrosse
The Seekonk girls lacrosse team are 3-3 to start the season, most recently beating Old Colony Regional in a close 14-13 battle to secure the victory. As a matter of fact, a coach of the Seekonk Youth Lacrosse Association (SYLA) for the past three years, Evelyn Crane, has accomplished a remarkable achievement. On Tuesday, April 21st, in the win against Old Colony, Crane officially registered 150 career goals in her high school lacrosse career in the team’s victory. The team looks to stay consistent with key matchups coming up ahead, including Bridgewater-Raynham and Dighton-Rehoboth in back-to-back days.
Seekonk Boys Lacrosse
Furthermore, the Seekonk boys lacrosse squad dropped a 6-0 defeat to Fairhaven on April 27th. Zach Moura made 11 saves to earn his first shutout of the season for Fairhaven (7-4), while Gavin Herman had two goals and an assist plus Liam Pickup rang the bell twice with two goals. Cody Souza had a goal and an assist apiece, while Dean Joseph and Ryder Chase had two assists each to join them.
• Reclaim your yard from woods encroachment. Removal of dead trees, shrubs, stumps & vines.
• Concrete installation/repairs for outdoor sheds, cabanas, paver walkways and patios
• Excavation & Drainage Solutions
Eight Athletes from Seekonk High School were Named SCC All-Stars for the 2025-26 season:
Hayden Robinson (junior — indoor track & field) (MIAA State Champion for the 1000m; qualified and ran at nationals in the 800m)
Dighton-Rehoboth’s student athletes of the month of April were Aidan Beagan (sophomore volleyball) and Ainsley Zibrida (senior girls lacrosse.) Beagan was recognized for his outstanding performance, work ethic and leadership on the boys volleyball team, helping elevate the team into a battleready and competitive group with 82 assists and 15 kills through eight games. While the senior captain Zibrida was recognized for her outstanding leadership, performance, confidence and positivity, leading the girls lacrosse program with currently 117 career points (55 goals and 62 assists).
Both D-R and Seekonk’s high school athletic programs will battle out the rest of their respective regular season schedules until the bitter end of May. Then, these teams will look to earn spots in the MIAA State Tournaments to wrap up the school year come June… hopefully with some MIAA hardware.
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Seekonk High’s Evelyn Crane, who also coaches with the Seekonk Youth Lacrosse Association, poses for a photo after a team victory celebrating her 150th career goal.
Island FC Centreville
An outstanding Dighton Rehoboth team finished the tournament undefeated against various other well known club soccer teams. For the second year in a row, they qualified as the first placed team for the National Championships in Florida to be held this November. Congratulations to our homegrown D/R FC soccer team, celebrating over 10 years of playing together, friendship and sharing the same passion for the sport.
Top Row, left to right: Zachary Sidok, Jayden Hasenfratz, Bradley Russell, Micah Fischman & Coach Papi Bottom Row, left to right: Logan Slater, Reid Maloof & Jaxson Ahearn
Seekonk High swimmer Lydia Craft, Boston Globe’s Athlete of the Year.
SEEKONK
Photos by Jennifer Pavlovich Photography.
SCHOOL NEWS
Dighton-Rehoboth Student Named Outstanding CTE Scholar
Director of Career and Technical Education Michael Strojny is pleased to announce that the Massachusetts Association of Vocational Administrators (MAVA) has recognized Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School senior Kylie Smith as one of 50 Outstanding CTE Scholars in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
A student in the high school’s Marketing and Entrepreneurship program, Kylie was selected for this prestigious honor based on her strong academic performance, leadership, technical skill, and broad involvement in both school and career-connected experiences.
An honor student with a 3.7 GPA, Kylie has distinguished herself as a leader in DECA, serving as chapter president for the past two years. She has advanced to state and international competition each year, earned a top-five placement at the state level in professional selling, and qualified for international competition. She was also selected for the DECA Leadership Academy and helped lead her chapter’s Innovation and Entrepreneurship Campaign to international qualification this year.
Beyond the classroom, Kylie has applied her skills through two years as an athletics department intern, supporting media events and social media outreach, while also participating in the cooperative education placement program in a role focused on apparel and promotional design. Her experiences reflect the kind of authentic, applied learning that defines high-quality career and technical education.
“Kylie exemplifies what we hope students gain through Career and Technical Education:
technical skill, leadership, creativity, and the confidence to apply learning in real-world settings,” said Strojny. “She has made a lasting impact on our program and has represented Dighton-Rehoboth exceptionally well.”
Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School Principal Dustin Demers also praised Kylie’s accomplishments and credited the support of her teacher, Patricia Madsen.
“Kylie’s recognition is well deserved and reflects not only her talent and work ethic, but also the kind of mentorship and opportunity that educators like Patricia Madsen help create for students every day,” said Demers. “Ms. Madsen has helped cultivate a program where students can lead, compete, create, and apply their learning in authentic ways. Kylie is a great example of what can happen when students find their pathway. As we often say at DRRHS, there’s something for everyone at DRRHS, and Kylie’s success is a powerful example of that in action.”
Pictured L to R: Runey, Smith, Madsen, Demers, and Strojny
Superintendent Bill Runey noted that Kylie’s recognition reflects both her individual drive and the strength of the district’s CTE programming.
“Kylie represents the kind of future-ready student we strive to develop through DRiving Toward 2030,” said Runey. “Her accomplishments reflect talent, discipline, and initiative, and we are incredibly proud to see her recognized among the Commonwealth’s top CTE scholars.”
Kylie plans to attend Salem State University, where she will study business and continue her softball career.
Kylie was recognized at the annual awards banquet hosted by MAVA at Mechanics Hall in Worcester, where educators, families, and public officials gathered to honor some of Massachusetts’ most promising CTE graduates.
Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District congratulates Kylie Smith on this outstanding achievement.
Dighton-Rehoboth’s Lauren Harwood Honored with Regional Technology Leadership Award
North Dighton, MA — The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District (DRRSD) is proud to announce that Lauren Harwood, Director of Instructional Technology & Operations, has been named the New England recipient of the Emerging Technology Leadership Award by Tech & Learning.
Harwood was recognized at the Awards Ceremony following the New England Tech & Learning Innovation Conference, an event that highlights forward-thinking leaders who are transforming teaching and learning through the intentional use of technology.
“Lauren represents exactly what this award is meant to recognize,” said Superintendent Bill Runey. “She doesn’t implement technology for the sake of innovation—she ensures it improves instruction, strengthens student outcomes, and prepares our students to think, create, and compete in a rapidly evolving world.”
Under Harwood’s leadership, DRRSD has taken a proactive and balanced approach to emerging technologies, particularly in the area of artificial intelligence. By establishing clear expectations for responsible and ethical use, the district has seen increased teacher adoption of AI tools and more student-driven learning experiences across classrooms.
She has worked collaboratively within Career and Technical Education programs, including the implementation of immersive learning tools such as zSpace in Advanced Manufacturing and significant technology upgrades in Engineering—ensuring students gain hands-on experience with tools aligned to modern industry standards.
In addition to advancing instructional practices, Harwood has strengthened the district’s cybersecurity awareness and infrastructure, while also enhancing communication systems and the district’s digital presence.
“This recognition reflects the work happening across our entire district,” Harwood said. “We’ve been intentional about creating learning environments where technology supports collaboration, creativity, and real-world application. I’m proud of our educators and students who bring that vision to life every day.”
Harwood’s leadership continues to play a key role in advancing the district’s strategic plan, DRiving Toward 2030, by empowering staff, igniting student curiosity and learning, and shaping the future.
Dighton Rehoboth Marching Band
Lauren Harwood
North Dighton, MA — The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District (DRRSD) is proud to announce it has been awarded $1.5 million through the Massachusetts Executive Office of Education’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) Expansion Grant Program to launch and expand high-demand career opportunities in Culinary Arts and Criminal Justice / Public Safety Pathways.
This significant investment will support Dighton-Rehoboth’s Next-Generation Career & Technical Education Expansion by establishing a state-of-the-art CTE Hub that connects classroom learning with real-world career opportunities and meets critical workforce needs across Southeastern Massachusetts.
“This is about opportunity and making sure our students don’t
have to wait until after graduation to find it. We’re building programs that connect relevant learning to real careers, real skills, and real purpose. That’s the promise of our CTE work and a direct reflection of our DRiving Toward 2030 strategic plan in action,” said Superintendent Bill Runey.
The new programs will provide hands-on, career-connected learning experiences aligned with regional workforce priorities:
Culinary Arts will prepare students for careers in the hospitality industry through industry-recognized certifications, business and entrepreneurship training, and partnerships with local restaurants and tourism employers.
Criminal Justice / Public Safety Pathways will equip students with foundational skills in public safety and human services, including CPR, First Aid, and de-escalation training, with a strong focus on ethics, communication, and community engagement.
“These new pathways open doors for students to discover their interests, build confidence, and see a future for themselves that is both meaningful and attainable,” said Dustin Demers, Principal of Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School. “At DRRHS, we’ve always believed that there’s something for everyone, and this expansion brings that belief to life in a powerful way.”
These programs are core to the district’s DRiving Toward 2030 strategic plan, which commits that every graduate will complete a high-value, career-connected learning experience. In October 2025, DRRSD also received a $15,000 grant to add Medical Assisting to its growing menu of CTE programs. The DRRSD CTE Hub is expected to serve more than 200 students in its first year, expanding to over 400 students annually by Year 3, while also opening doors for adult learners and community members seeking new skills or career transitions.
SCHULTHEISS
“This grant is a testament to the vision and persistence behind this work,” said Mike Strojny, Director of Career & Technical Education. “I want to recognize our Grantwriter, Renee Moorby, whose leadership and attention to detail helped bring this opportunity to life. With this support, we’re able to expand programs that give students hands-on experience, industry credentials, and a clear connection between what they learn in school and where they can go next.”
The initiative builds on Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District’s strong track record of community partnerships and career readiness. In the last three years, over 80% of CTE students have secured employment, apprenticeships, or continued their education within six months of graduation. The district will collaborate with key partners, including MassHire Bristol Workforce Board, Bristol Community College, Bridgewater State University, and regional employers in the hospitality and public safety sectors.
Students will benefit from internships, dual enrollment opportunities, industry mentorship, and real-world training experiences, including catering events, pop-up cafés, and field-based learning with local public safety agencies.
Designed as a model for regional collaboration, the DRRSD CTE Hub will align education with workforce demands, expand credentialed training capacity, and increase equitable access for students from historically underrepresented and economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
Beckwith Debate Team
Beckwith’s Debate Team recently competed at the Massasoit League Meet, hosted at Beckwith Middle School. The team performed admirably, showcasing exceptional speaking and critical thinking skills throughout the event. Their dedication and hard work were evident, and they represented the school with great pride.
Beckwith Middle School’s Project 351 Ambassador
Audrey Kreizinger is Beckwith Middle School’s Project 351 Ambassador - an honor recognizing student leaders across Massachusetts for their commitment to service and making a difference. Audrey led our Cradles to Crayons clothing drive, collecting donations to support families in need. Her leadership and dedication truly reflect the mission of Project 351: empowering young people to lead through service. We are proud of the impact she is making in our school and community!
Congratulations to Beckwith Choral Students
Congratulations to choral students Charlotte Amaral and Korey Grant, along with instrumentalist Jacob Rodrigues, for representing Beckwith Middle School at the Junior SEMSBA Music Festival held on May 1st and 2nd at East Bridgewater Jr./Sr. High School. Under the direction of choral conductor Ms. Meghan Blell and instrumental conductor Mr. Greg Johnson, the students rehearsed with other middle and high school musicians from the Southeastern Massachusetts area to prepare a variety of musical selections. This two-day festival concluded with a concert enjoyed by family and friends.
Beckwith Debate Team
Audrey Kreizinger
Beckwith Choral Students
Trimester 2 High Honors
Grade 8: Andrew Avery-Pham, Crescenzo Cairone, Dylan Cordeiro, Hallie Coyne, Manuel Daza-Portillo, Luke DeMoura, Kellen Dietrich, Alaina DiPalma, Macy Frissell, Hayleigh Guthrie, Zoya Holowka, Mackenna Johnson, Lyla Mae Kinniburgh, Audrey Kreizinger, Amelia McWain, Jason Mendoza, Chase Moniz, Neayeika Neth, Jordan Nguyenle, Sabrina Potter, Alexander Quin, Connor Quinn, Mitchell Ramos, Natalia Regan, Morgan Soares, Jordan Steinkamp, Veda Tavares, Amelia Trexler, Amaya Turner
Grade 7: Madassir Aga, Alyssa Bernardo, Ethan Botelho, Audrey Brown, Nora Carroll, Anthony Chianese, Benjamin Cordeiro, Avery Ferreira, Noah Fischman, Levi Garcia, Milla Greene, Liam Jeffrey, Megan Kazanjian, Ava Landry, Connor Levinson, Alayah Lopes, Darnette Louis, Lila Magee, Michael Martins, Malia Nepini, Selene Ollivierre, Brooke Pento, Christian Peterson, Audrey Peterson, Caizzi Read, Jacob Rodrigues, Owen Ruhle, Luca Salcone, Eleanor Santiago, Julian Soares, Richard Wood
Grade 6: Brian Andrade, Albert Antonio, Sean Beagan, Max Bodge, Chloe Clement, Charlotte Costa, Eliot Crowshaw, Dax Dagnese, Lucas Darling, Camdyn DeGroot, Abigail Dupuis, Abigail Fernandes, Colton Hathaway, Elliot Hess, Emily Johnson, Owen Lay, Logan Luedke, Alina Mello-Sattler, Blake Middleton, Courtney Middleton, Gianna Perry, Avery Sherman, Eliana Silva, William Sousa, Clive Tavares, Gabriella Thompson, Hailey Titcomb, Liam Towner, Lydia Trexler, Anika Verma, Emily Warren, Olivia White, Emmett Wright, Jason Zapata
Grade 5: Nathan Barlow, Anabella Bettencourt, Ellie Boswinkel, Elizabeth Bradshaw, James Carter, William Connery, Emma Coyne, Violet DaSilva, Kaya Elkins, Isabella Furtado, Brody Hilton, Gina Jacovides, Samuel Joubert, Eliana Lambert, Hannah Levinson, Haley Mattson, Cormac Miller, Colton Moniz, Riley Pento, Andrew Quin, Alexander Roberts, Michael Shapiro, Abigail Sine, Vincent Tavares, Easton Tetreault, Harper Warner, Chayce Whitten, Morgan Winther
Trimester 2 Honor Roll
ROOFING
Grade 8: Charlotte Amaral, Khloe Amaral, Clara Arrigo, Charles Battistoni-Marks, Noah Beauregard, Alexander Benoit, Jason Bettencourt, Benjamin Bourgoin, Dodge Caban, Jocelyn Cameron, Julia Cameron, Damin Carey, Amelia Choquette, James Comins, Alicia Correia, Kassidy Duarte, Juliana Franco, Hadley Galkin, Korey Grant, Leland Hess, Meriwether Holt, Madeleine Hurley, Maximus Jarvis, Madison Johnson, Robert Johnson, Lucas Laudati, Jameson Leonard, Kyra McCullum, Dane Medeiros, Andrew Oldmixon, Emma Oliver, Lila Owen, Shyann Phillips, Thomas Pierce, Abagail Polychronis, Zachary Robbio, Nicholas Ryder, Ella Sampson, Maeve Santos, Finn Scamacca, Keegan Sellers, Hope Wilson
Grade 6: Alexis Assi, George Assi, Callie Avila, Ruby Beausoleil, Emma Bernardo, Lucas Bernardo, Ryder Bonilla, Hannah Boulay, Owen Boylan, Bathan Bradshaw, Adrian Braga, Rachel Cabral, Zachary Cadorette, Quinn Campbell, Dean Carey, Evan Chaput, Harper Cloutier, Mireya Cruz, Mariana Cunha, Evan D’Aiello, , Decker D’Ambrosio, Amelia DaRosa, Avaleigh Deus, Isla DiPalma, Dylan DoCouto, Ciana DuVally, Drew Fogel, Lucy Grant, Graham Greene, Ryleigh Guthrie, Charlotte Harris, Hadley Jodoin-Blais, Austin Kaszyk, Olivia Leffort, Kenzie Lopes, Ophelia MacKenzie, Bria McVicker, Amelia Medeiros, Allsion Mirra, Vanessa Moran, Lila Nunes, William Owen, Audrianna Pacheco, Ella Perry, Olivia Pimento, Alexandra Prachanronarong-Ellick, Lucas Rebelo, Jaliyah Raphino, Jaxson Rosa, Ainsley Scanlon, Jackson Seal, Zackary Taylor, Skyla Vieira, Landon Whitten
Grade 5: Lily Barnes, Brooklyn Beaudette, Mila Beaulieu, Liam Breen, Devlin Cairone, Calliope Camara, Veronica Carrasquillo, Maeve Carroll, Ella Chagnon, Eli Colon, Scottlyn Croteau, Antonio DaSilva, Soraia DeJesus, Blake DiRenzo, Jaxson Dugan, April Ellin, Clayton Ferreira, Vivienne Fitzgerald, Olivia Fortes, Brady Freeborn, Ollie Galligan, Hudson Garcia, Carter Gentile, Madison Griego, Myles Griego, Liana Guite, Liam Hanson, Ezra Hayes, Izma Ishfaq, Logan Jacques, Lynora Kemp Marcoux, Kristopher Lundquist, Dillon Magee, Kellan Malaguti, Addison Marcotte, Benjamin Medeiros, Olivia Mega, Aliana Neto, Skylyn O’Hare, Sean Oldmixon, Bryce Pearson, Juniper Plumer-Reed, Riley Read, Hannah Regan, Sophia Remine, Emerie Richards, Tyler Steinkamp, Eve Swicker, Gabriella
Bay View Q3 Honor Roll Seekonk
High Honors: CLASS OF 2026: Ariana Bobiak. CLASS OF 2028: Sophia Vieira. CLASS OF 2030: Margot Palmaccio. CLASS OF 2031: Mackenzie Seyboth. CLASS OF 2032: Bliss Boyle.
Honors: CLASS OF 2026: Lauren Adamonis, Yishan Brady. CLASS OF 2027: Yiling Brady, Marya Cheema. CLASS OF 2029: Emma Chase. CLASS OF 2031: Francesca Donato.
Rehoboth
High Honors: CLASS OF 2026: Jillian Escobar. CLASS OF 2029: Gabriella Faria. CLASS OF 2031: Bella Andrade. CLASS OF 2032: Juliana Hebert.
Honors: CLASS OF 2026: Avery Gomes. CLASS OF 2027: Jalissa Escobar, Allison Mandeville. CLASS OF 2028: Rhaea Crepeau. CLASS OF 2029: Sofia Hebert. CLASS OF 2031: Nora Coelho, Mackenzie Reeves. CLASS OF 2032: Mila Lewis, Evelyn Richer. St. Mary Academy-Bay View President & Head of School Amy Gravell is proud to announce 180 students made the honor roll for the Fall 2025 semester. This academic distinction recognizes the dedication of students in grades 6 through 12 who demonstrate exceptional performance in their studies.
Students who earn all As for the quarter grading period receive the distinction of highest honors. Students who achieve As and Bs for the quarter grading period are recognized with “honors.”
Congratulations on your achievements! You are a source of pride for your families and teachers.
Rehoboth Antiquarian Society Scholarship
The Rehoboth Antiquarian Society (RAS) is accepting applications for the 2026-2027 second semester scholarship. A successful candidate(s) will be awarded up to $2,000. Applicants must plan 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 must be enrolled in, or accepted by, an academic institution or an institution offering programs aligned with our mission for the 2026 fall semester. 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 19, 2026.
Hoop Camps with One-on-One Basketball
At One-on-One Basketball, we have been teaching basketball to elementary and middle school students in Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts since 2005. We offer basketball skills classes and summer camps for boys and girls ages 5–16. Our after-school programs run for one hour per week over 6–8 weeks during the fall, winter, and spring seasons. Over time, the program has expanded to serve approximately 65 schools per week and host up to 20 camps each summer.
BASKETBALL TRAINING
July 20th - 24th & August 3rd - 7th AT PROVIDENCE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL
660 Waterman Ave, East Providence RI 02914
9:00 AM TO 2 PM (8:30 am drop-off)
Boys & Girls Ages 5-15* Cost: $230.00 ($410 both camps)
*grouped by age/ability in the three court PCD Fieldhouse
For more info call Frank Luca at 401-639-0814 or Register on-line @ www.1on1basketball.com click Prov, then Camps
One-on-One Basketball Training has provided complete instruction in all aspects of the game since 1991, working with players of all ages and skill levels. Our philosophy emphasizes focused training as the most effective way for athletes to achieve meaningful, lasting improvement. Through experienced instruction, we equip players with the tools they need to grow, while also promoting leadership, confidence, and a strong work ethic.
We believe that hard work, attention to detail, and a positive attitude are essential habits for success. While improving basketball skills is a primary goal, we are equally committed to helping athletes develop both on and off the court. Our programs are designed to motivate players, build confidence, and help them reach their full potential—all while having fun.
Our team of knowledgeable and enthusiastic instructors is extensively trained to teach young athletes the fundamentals of the game. They are dedicated to instilling values like dedication, perseverance, and positive thinking. As a result, players not only improve their basketball abilities but also develop life skills that contribute to success beyond the court.
For more information, visit www.1on1basketball.com
Dive into Summer: Why Swimming is the Essential Family Skill
As the weather warms and we trade our sweatpants for flipflops, our thoughts drift to sunny days by the pool, toes dipped in the water while our kids splash and laugh. Swimming is not only a source of great recreation but also a crucial activity that teaches important life skills and builds confidence. It reinforces the idea that if you can learn how to swim, anything is possible.
Summer camps offer an exceptionally efficient way to master this skill. Wheeler Summer Camp Director Danielle Levya notes that two weeks of daily camp instruction can equal ten weeks of traditional lessons. Most camps offer free swim which further allows children to practice these new abilities alongside their peers in a fun, social environment.
Crucially, it is never too late to learn how to swim, regardless of age, as everyone should have this ability. Learning is fundamentally about water safety and drowning prevention, serving as a critical life-saving skill. Additionally, it provides wonderful opportunities for recreation and family enjoyment, allowing individuals of all ages to safely enjoy aquatic activities.
Levya reminds families that Wheeler Summer Camps offers a variety of camp offerings and a new afternoon family passes to use facilities, but for other options, families should research an appropriate American Camp Association accredited camp to sign up for a truly unforgettable summer.
Rhode Island Fencing Academy
Rhode Island Fencing Academy (RIFAC) offers far more than fencing lessons—it offers a pathway to confidence, discipline, and lifelong success. Whether your child is stepping onto the strip for the first time or pursuing elite competition, RIFAC provides a supportive, family-friendly environment where students grow as athletes and as people.
Fencing is often called “physical chess,” combining strategic thinking with athletic skill. At RIFAC, students develop concentration, self-discipline, self-control, and problem-solving abilities while improving strength, endurance, and coordination. These skills extend well beyond the fencing strip, helping students improve grades, develop a growth mindset, set meaningful goals, and learn the persistence needed to achieve them.
For over 30 years, RIFAC’s caring, professional coaching staff have helped thousands of students discover the excitement and rewards of fencing. They are all committed to nurturing every student’s potential while modeling respect, sportsmanship, and healthy attitudes toward competition. This student-centered philosophy has helped RIFAC earn recognition twice from the United States Fencing Association as a Club of Excellence in Youth Development, producing both recreational fencers and elite athletes, including World Cup competitors.
Parents consistently praise the RIFAC experience. One parent describes it as,“Fantastic organization—it’s all in the people. Fun, support, hard work, respect, with all the right values.” Another shares, “Great coaches who respect kids and teach the love of fencing and importance of sportsmanship.” These testimonials reflect the welcoming culture that makes RIFAC such a special place.
RIFAC also opens doors to outstanding academic opportunities. Fencing is one of the best sports for college recruitment, and RIFAC’s competitive fencers are consistently recruited by top universities, often receiving scholarships to join collegiate fencing teams. The discipline, resilience, and focus developed through fencing prepare students not only for college athletics, but for success in every area of life.
Fundamentals
Fundamentals is a warm, welcoming play and learning space designed for young children and the people who care for them. We believe that children learn best through play, and we’ve created a safe, nurturing environment where kids can explore, build confidence, and develop important life skills—all while having fun.
This summer, Fundamentals becomes an exciting place for children to grow, connect, and thrive through our engaging summer camp and support services. Our camps are thoughtfully designed for children under ten and focus on social skills, emotional regulation, creativity, and cooperative play. Each day is filled with movement, hands-on activities, games, and opportunities to practice skills like sharing, problem-solving, and managing big feelings in a supportive setting.
In addition to camp, we offer academic tutoring, occupational therapy, and speech therapy services to support each child’s unique developmental needs. Whether your child needs extra help building skills, improving communication, or strengthening independence, our team provides personalized, supportive care in a comfortable and engaging environment.
At Fundamentals, we know that parenting doesn’t come with a manual—that’s why we support caregivers, too. Our team creates a positive, collaborative environment where families feel comfortable, included, and understood.
Whether you’re looking for a summer camp your child will love or meaningful services that support their growth and development, Fundamentals is here to help your child learn, play, and shine. Learn more at www.playatfundamentals.com
This summer, RIFAC camps offer an exciting opportunity for beginners and experienced fencers alike to build skills, improve performance, and make new friends. With specialized drills, games, and expert guidance from national medalists and World Cup athletes, campers strengthen both technical ability and confidence. New for 2026, RIFAC is partnering with the Russian School of Mathematics for a unique half-day camp blending math, strategy, and fencing. At RIFAC, students learn that fencing develops them inside and out. It builds great athletes, confident individuals, and future leaders. Try a class or camp and discover what makes RIFAC exceptional—because at Rhode Island Fencing Academy, the lessons last a lifetime.
“Best
at the Herreshoff Marine Museum
Youth Summer Camp
Beginner, Intermediate & Advanced Classes for Children or Adults
Sail on Herreshoff 12½ Private Lessons & Rentals
Puppies are a lot of work!!
Confused
Get
Herreshoff Summer Sailing Program
Set sail this summer with the Herreshoff Marine Museum’s renowned Summer Sailing Program—where adventure, skill-building, and coastal beauty come together on Narragansett Bay. Perfect for beginners and experienced young sailors alike, this hands-on program offers an unforgettable introduction to the art and joy of sailing.
Participants learn directly on the water, guided by experienced, certified instructors who emphasize safety, confidence, and teamwork. From rigging a boat and reading the wind to mastering tacking and jibing, every day brings new challenges and achievements. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention, helping each sailor progress at their own pace while building lasting friendships. Beyond sailing skills, the program fosters independence, problem-solving, and a deep appreciation for the marine environment. Campers explore the rich maritime heritage of Bristol while enjoying the thrill of navigating the same waters that inspired generations of sailors and boatbuilders.
Flexible weekly sessions make it easy for families to fit sailing into their summer plans, and all necessary equipment is provided. Whether your child dreams of racing across the bay or simply wants to try something new outdoors, this program offers the perfect balance of learning and fun.
Give your child a summer they’ll never forget—full of fresh air, sunshine, and the excitement of the open water. Spots fill quickly, so don’t miss the chance to be part of this exceptional sailing experience.
Food & Dining Guide
Take to the Outdoors with a Fresh, Picnic-Friendly Sandwich
(Feature Impact) When the weather breaks and it’s time to get outdoors, there’s hardly any better place to be than resting on a deck, lounging in the backyard or curled up on a picnic blanket at a local park. Enjoy that leisurely time with loved ones by sharing a spread that includes these Picnic Party Sandwiches, perfect for a filling lunch that provides the energy you need for kicking around a soccer ball, playing tag or flying a kite.
Find more lunch ideas fit for enjoying the sunshine by visiting Culinary.net.
Picnic Party Sandwiches
Recipe adapted from “Crunch Time Kitchen”
Total time: 20 minutes ~ Servings: 4 Ingredients
• 1/4 cup salted butter
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced
• 1 large fresh baguette
• 1/4 cup fig preserves
• 6-8 ounces cured meats, such as prosciutto, salami and capocollo
• 6 ounces brie cheese, sliced
• 2 cups arugula
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 pinch kosher salt
Directions:
Mash together room temperature butter with fresh parsley. Set aside.
Cut fresh baguette length-wise and smear bottom half of the baguette with herbed butter. Top with fig preserves.
Layer on cured meats followed by slices of brie cheese. For brie, cut off any large pieces of rind.
In small bowl, toss arugula with lemon juice and salt. Add arugula to sandwich followed by top half of baguette.
Cut baguette into four even sandwiches and eat immediately or wrap each one tightly in paper or plastic wrap.
In Rememberance
Thomas W. Blessing Jr.
Thomas W. Blessing Jr., 75, of Rehoboth, son of the late Thomas, Sr. and Ruth (Babcock) Blessing, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2026, surrounded by loved ones.
Born in Providence, RI, and raised on Anna Maria Island along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Tom made his way back to Rhode Island at age 16 where, not long after, he met Millie, his wife and partner of 52 years.
A true child of the ’60s, Tom embraced the spirit of the era wholeheartedly—he was at Woodstock in 1969 and carried that easygoing,
music-loving vibe with him throughout his life. Tom loved going to concerts and saw many of his favorite artists live, including Fleetwood Mac, Pink Floyd, The Doors, Jethro Tull, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, Janis Joplin and many others. Later in life, he became a big fan of country music and, to everyone’s surprise, also a fan of K-Pop music artist Black Pink.
As a profession, he was a journeyman toolmaker and also took great pride in the home he helped design and build on Rocky Hill Road, where he lived for 47 years, a place that became a warm and welcoming hub for family and friends throughout the years. You could usually find him in his garage being a mad scientist tinkering on various projects alongside his cherished Chevy Siliverados. On the coldest nights, you could count on walking into our home made warm by the roaring fire in his beloved fieldstone fireplace. And if you stayed long enough, chances were good you’d find him enjoying Oreos, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, or a raspberry Danish.
His second favorite place, after home, was the beach, enjoying many summer days on Narragansett and Scarborough Beach. He was also a lifelong sports enthusiast. In his younger days, Tom loved to surf, ride horses, play baseball and ice hockey, especially on Perryville Pond in Rehoboth. He cheered faithfully for the Boston Celtics, Red Sox, Bruins, and Patriots. He was also a longtime baseball coach for Rehoboth Youth Baseball Association.
Tom is survived by his loving wife, Millie, his beloved daughter, Kristen, and her husband, Cedric, of Rehoboth, his son, Thomas, and his wife, Meghan, of North Kingstown, and his cherished grandchildren, Jayden, Cassidy, Finley, and Saylor. He also leaves his
brother, Dennis Blessing, St. Petersberg, FL; his brothers-in-law and sisters in-law, Terri and Gary Venditto, Ann Corriveau and Linwood Straight, Bill and Karen George, and a large extended family of nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews.
He never judged, never gossiped, gave great advice when solicited and was a vault for many secrets people had shared with him over the years. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered—preferably with good music, a warm fire, and something sweet within reach.
In keeping with Tom’s wishes, a private service will be held with immediate family and a celebration of his life will follow at a later date.
Loretta Veader
Loretta Veader, 87, of Trinity, Florida and formerly of Arcade Avenue, Seekonk passed away on Sunday, April 26, 2026. She was the wife of the late Richard J. Veader to whom she was married for 60 years. Born in Providence, she was the daughter of the late Frank P. and Olive (Santos) Sousa. Mrs. Veader was a clerk in Seekonk Town Hall for many years before she retired. She was a communicant of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church.
She leaves three daughters, LouAnne J. Packard, Pamela J. Monroe
and Kimberly A. Costa all of Florida, two sisters, Patricia Perry and Roxanne Sousa, five grandchildren, Amy Ramsey, Robert Thurber, III., Joshua Costa, Brittany Packard and Chase Costa, seven great grandchildren, Isla, Wyatt and Brodey Ramsey, Michael and Joy Thurber, Isabella and Gulianna Costa and several nieces and nephews. She was the grandmother of the late Michaela Packard and sister of the late Shirley Richmond.
Her funeral was held on Thursday, May 7,2026 at 9:00 AM from the PERRY-McSTAY FUNERAL HOME, 2555 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM in Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Taunton Avenue, Seekonk. Burial was in Seekonk Cemetery. Calling hours were held on Wednesday from 5-8 PM. In lieu of flowers conrtributions to the Alzheimer’s Association: Donorservices. alz.org or SuncoastHospiceFoundation.org would be deeply appreciated.
May leave this world, but they never leave Our Hearts
Owners and Directors, Amy Silva Rigtrup, Type 3, Lawrence Quintal, Type 3 and Christine (DeLawrence) Quintal, Type 3
Thomas W. Blessing Jr.
Loretta Veader
Deborah A. Almeida
Deborah A. Almeida, 70, of Rehoboth, MA, died peacefully on Thursday, April 30, 2026 at St. Anne’s Hospital surrounded by her loving family. Born in Fall River, she was the daughter of the late Alfred F. Almeida, Sr. & Dorothea (Rapozo) Almeida. She was the loving wife of Alan J. Viveiros.
Deborah was a graduate of Northeastern University, Salve Regina University, and Lynn University School of Mortuary Science.
Deborah co-owned and operated the family business, A.F. Almeida & Son Funeral Home of Fall River and Pocasset Memorial Funeral Home of Tiverton for many years. She was a Licensed Funeral Director & Registered Embalmer in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Deborah will be remembered for her kindness and compassion to the many families she was honored to serve throughout her career.
A Registered Pharmacist, Deborah was employed as Assistant Director of Pharmacy at St. Anne’s Hospital and Pharmacist at Standard Pharmacy in Fall River.
Active in civic affairs, Deborah was Past President of the Fall River Funeral Directors Association, member of Altrusa International, Fall River Rotary Club, Portuguese Business Association, and served on the Board of Directors for the Good Samaritans. She was a Communicant of Good Shepherd Church and a longtime member of the Liberal Club.
In addition to her husband, she leaves her brother, Alfred F. Almeida, Jr. & his wife Kathleen of Tiverton, and sister-in-law Janice Costa of Fall River. She was the stepmother of Tonya Vitorino & her husband Dan of Westport, grandmother of Kellee Weeks, Devyn Vitorino, Dominic Vitorino, & great-grandmother of Isla Weeks. Cherished aunt of Aaron D. Almeida & his wife Jody, Andrew J. Almeida & his wife Caitlyn, Joel Costa, Kerrie Brum & her husband Joshua, and grandaunt of Emily Grace, Madelyn Joy, Sophia Elizabeth, Henry David, Caleb Joseph, Zachary John, and Lylah Hope Almeida.
Her Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Wednesday, May 6, 2026 at 10:30 AM in Good Shepherd Church, 1598 South Main Street, Fall River. Entombment in Notre Dame Cemetery will be private.
The Almeida Family will received relatives & friends on Tuesday from 3:00 to 6:00 PM in the A.F. ALMEIDA & SON FUNERAL HOME, 1309 Globe Street, Fall River, MA.
In lieu of flowers, gifts in her memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN, 38105 will be appreciated.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Tufts Medical Center and St. Anne’s Hospital for their exemplary care.
For online messages of condolence, kindly visit www.almeida-pocasset.com
Death Notices
Rehoboth
• Thomas W. Blessing Jr., 75, of Rehoboth, son of the late Thomas, Sr. and Ruth (Babcock) Blessing, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2026, surrounded by loved ones.
• Linda M. Rose, 77, of Rehoboth, passed away on Monday, March 30, 2026 at her home surrounded by her loving family.
Seekonk
• Joseph Edward “Ed” Sirois, Jr., 76, of Seekonk, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 29, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
• Peter John Hall, age 67, of Seekonk, Massachusetts, passed away on March 30, 2026, after a brief illness.
• Dorothy A. (Amaral) Jackson, 88, of Chestnut Street, Seekonk, passed away peacefully on April 22, 2026, at the Grace Barker Nursing Center in Warren, surrounded by her loving family.
Deborah A. Almeida
Over the past 5 year a significant shift from pain management or surgery has led more individuals to reject invasive back and neck treatments like spinal fusion surgery or injections in favor of regenerative, non-surgical alternatives. This trend is driven by a growing desire for long-term health rather than the temporary symptom masking provided by drugs and surgery.
Spinal Disc Center clinics with special trained Doctors are combining traditional therapies with Newly FDA Approved Technologies into comprehensive, personalized programs. By integrating these new technologies with proven traditional therapies, patients are achieving faster, more durable outcomes than ever before all without a single incision, shot or prescription. Why the Shift Away from Traditional Medicine?
Patients are increasingly wary of the risks associated with conventional "quick fixes", cover-ups and the side effects of medication that don’t fix anything Chronic use of NSAIDs and opioids leads to stomach, kidney and liver problems creating dependency, and a "masking" effect that ignores the actual cause of pain and dysfunction.
Back surgeries carry inherent risks such as infection, nerve damage, and "failed back surgery syndrome". Successful outcomes are 50/50 with the percentage of success declining each year after the surgery. Recovery can take weeks or months, whereas non-surgical options typically require zero downtime.
Invasive Injections (steroid shots) provide temporary relief, but does not address mechanical issues like disc compression or spinal misalignment. Epidurals are not approved by the FDA for spinal pain and come with
levels of risk and permanent side effects.
Advances in Non-Surgical Solutions have been creeping into the market and are being integrated into traditional spinal practices and offering the risk adverse patients a safer, more effective pathway to recovery. More and more people are turning to these safe and effective non-invasive conservative options instead of cutting or drugging.
My name is Dr. Rodger Lincoln owner of Providence Disc Centers Pawtucket and we have integrated these newly FDA approved technologies that have helped thousands of people relieve them of chronic and debilitating neck and back pain.
At one time these technologies were only available to professional athletes of major League Baseball, Hockey, Basket Ball, Football, Soccer & Professional Golfers. These
professional athletes have the money to hire any kind of doctor they want, yet they choose to have Non-Surgical spinal Decompression, Laser Therapy, Shockwave Therapy and Chiropractic.
These modalities address the root cause of disc break-down, spinal misalignments, nerve irritation, inflammation and loss mobility.
Advanced Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression uses computer controlled motorized traction therapy that gently stretches the spine at the targeted level to create a "vacuum effect" inside the disc. This highly effective process allows herniated or bulging discs to retract the bulge or herniation and promotes the flow of nutrient-rich fluids back into the disc for natural healing.
Class 4 Robotic Laser Therapy use the concentrated power of specific wavelengths of light, Class 4 lasers penetrate deep into tissues to stimulate mitochondrial activity (much like photosynthesis). This biostimulation accelerates cellular repair, reduces swelling, and provides immediate pain relief without heat or surgery.
Shockwave Therapy creates highenergy acoustic sound waves that break up scar tissue, adhesions and calcified deposits in the spinal joints, tendons and ligaments. It triggers a healing response by increasing blood flow and stimulating collagen production, making it ideal for chronic, "stubborn" injuries.
If you have been living in pain or have been told you need surgery, Disc Centers of Providence may have a solution for you. Call 401325-7125 today to schedule
Advanced Estate Planning
Written by Lars Lambrecht, CFP, CLU, BFA, AMPA, CDFA, CLTC, CSLP, owner of Island Time Financial Services, Inc.
The topic of estate planning is expansive. We covered some basics last month, and will cover some of the more complex considerations this month. Please note that I am not an attorney and cannot provide legal advice. It is critical to involve an attorney in your estate planning, and I recommend going to one that specializes in estate planning.
Estate Taxes. Clients often create an estate plan to minimize estate taxes (death taxes). Estate taxes do not apply on a Federal level until your estate exceeds $15 million. However, estates over $2 million can be taxed in Massachusetts ($1,838,056 in Rhode Island). Your estate includes any bank/investment accounts, real estate and death benefit of any life insurance policies. There are a number of advanced strategies to reduce or eliminate estate taxes, including credit shelter trusts, gifting and charitable strategies.
Trusts. Trusts come in many shapes and sizes. If you are married, certain trust provisions can allow you to double the amount that can be passed on to your beneficiaries free from estate taxes. These provisions are referred to as credit shelter, disclaimer or AB provisions. Outside of tax planning, there are several other benefits to trusts. Trusts can either be Revocable, meaning they can be changed at any time, or Irrevocable, which cannot be altered once it is created.
Revocable Trusts. The vast majority of trusts are revocable, because of their flexibility. One of the primary benefits of a trust is that it avoids probate. If your asset does not have a named beneficiary (such as real estate or many bank accounts), it must be probated at your death, which involves filing paperwork with the court. It is important to understand, having a will does NOT avoid probate. If assets are owned by the trust, or the trust is named as the beneficiary, it will avoid probate. Another big benefit of trust is in the area of management and distribution of assets if you do not
want your beneficiaries to receive the money immediately at your death or if you want to protect it from divorce or creditors. For example, you may not want your children to receive an inheritance until they are 25 or 30 years old.
Irrevocable Trusts. Irrevocable Trusts are much less common than they used to be. They are primary used to shelter assets for high net worth clients or exclude assets from Medicaid planning. Medicaid rules have become stricter over time, so assets generally need to be transferred at least 5 years in advance of needing long-term care. Clients also relinquish control with irrevocable trusts.
Gifting. Gifting is a popular strategy if you feel you have sufficient assets and want to see loved ones or charities benefit from the money while you are living. This may also allow you to reduce the size of your estate to avoid estate/death taxes. You can very easily gift up to $19,000 per year to anyone ($38,000 if you are married and your spouse consents to gift splitting). You can also gift significantly more than this (without paying taxes) if you file a Gift Tax return.
Charities. It is outside of the scope of this article, but there are more advanced strategies to consider if you are charitably inclined. As an example, you can create a Donor Advised Fund to receive a large tax deduction and have money distributed to charities of your choice over time. Charitable Remainder Unitrusts and Charitable Lead Trusts allow you to potentially create income and receive a charitable deduction. If you are over the age of 70 ½, you can donate money directly from your IRA on a tax-free basis.
Lars Lambrecht, Rehoboth resident and Certified Financial Planner, is available to answer questions or meet for a consultation. 617-947-6428
Lars Lambrecht
From the State House
Representative Steven S. Howitt Pushes for Affordability, Municipal Relief Measures in FY27
House Budget
Cites ‘missed opportunity’ to provide additional savings to residents, cities and towns
Boston – State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R-Seekonk) recently joined with his Republican colleagues to stand united in advocating for a series of proposed amendments to the Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) House budget designed to assist the state’s taxpayers and municipalities as they struggle with rising costs and increasing budget constraints.
Expressing concerns about the unprecedented number of cities and towns that are forced to pursue Proposition 2 ½ overrides to maintain basic services, Representative Howitt said he was happy to see the House budget takes steps to assist communities by funding the Special Education Circuit Breaker at $653.4 million, an increase of $168.5 million. In addition to funding the final year of the Student Opportunity Act (SOA) at $550.5 million, the House budget also increases the minimum per pupil aid recommended by the SOA from an additional $130 per pupil to $160 per pupil by providing $52.2 million in supplemental minimum aid, while also creating a $10 million reserve for school districts experiencing unexpected enrollment reductions in ESOL students.
Representative Howitt also advocated for state funding assistance for local projects in the 4th Bristol District through the amendment process, securing earmarks for tasers for the Norton Police Department, turnout gear for the Rehoboth Fire Department, body cameras for the Seekonk Police Department, and a digital training simulator for the Swansea Police Department. The $63.4 billion House budget contains no tax increases.
Representative Howitt noted that the House proposal funds Chapter 70 education aid at $7.66 billion, which is a $296.5 million increase over the current fiscal year and $54.8 million more than Governor Healey has proposed. However, Unrestricted General Government Aid (UGGA) – which helps fund essential non-education municipal programs and services including police and firefighters – is increased by only $10 million over the current level, for a total of $1.33 billion, compared to the $33 million increase in the Governor’s budget.
Funding was proposed by Towns for FY27 as follows:
Rehoboth: UGGA $1,307,477
Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District: Chapter 70 $14,411,508
Seekonk: Chapter 70 $8,599,658UGGA $1,543,466
On April 29, the House passed its budget proposal on a vote of 149-9. The budget will now move to the Senate Ways and Means Committee, with the Senate scheduled to debate its own version of the FY27 budget the week of May 18th.
Representative Steven S. Howitt Supports State Funding for Municipal Road and Bridge Repairs Road and bridge funding part of $1.4B transportation infrastructure bill
Boston – State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R-Seekonk) recently supported a $1.4 billion transportation infrastructure bond bill that will provide $300 million in funding to cities and towns under the Chapter 90 program, along with additional funding authorizations for other transportation infrastructure-related programs and projects across the state.
House Bill 5375, An Act financing longterm improvements to municipal roads and bridges, was given preliminary approval by the House of Representatives on April 15, passing on a vote of 155-0. The bill still requires Senate approval and the governor’s signature before it can take effect.
Representative Howitt noted that the House bill allocates $200 million in Chapter 90 funding for Fiscal Year 2027 using the program’s traditional weighted formula that is based on a community’s local road mileage (58.33%), population (20.83%), and employment levels (20.83%). An additional $100 million is to be distributed based strictly on a community’s local road mileage to help ensure that rural communities with smaller populations receive their fair share of state funding for maintaining their transportation infrastructure.
Established by the Legislature in 1973, the Chapter 90 program offers state funding assistance to cities and towns on a reimbursable basis to help maintain local transportation infrastructure, including roads, bridges and sidewalks.
Representative Howitt said under the House proposal, the towns of Norton, Rehoboth, Seekonk, and Swansea will receive the following distributions from Chapter 90 and 2026 Road Miles funding:
• Rehoboth: $624,659.31 plus $451,874.16, or $1,076,533.47 total.
• Seekonk: $580,017.47 plus $337,122.25, or $917,139.72 total.
Representative Howitt noted that in addition to the Chapter 90 appropriation, House Bill 5375 also contains funding for several other statewide transportation infrastructure initiatives, including:
• $500 million for the bridge and pavement lifecycle asset management program;
• $200 million for transportation capital projects;
• $200 million for the Parkway Resilience Improvement and Safety Modernization (PRISM) program, which provides accelerated deferred maintenance, modernization, and safety improvements for multi-modal transportation infrastructure under the control of the Department of Conservation and Recreation; and
• $200 million for the implementation of rail improvements, including the design and acquisition of commuter rail locomotives.
According to Representative Howitt, House Bill 5375 also increases funding authorizations for projects that were previously approved under the 2022 transportation bond bill. Specifically, the House bill will increase funding for:
• interstate and non-interstate federal highway system projects from $2.81 billion to $5.11 billion;
• non-federally aided roadway and bridge projects, and the non-participating share of federally aided projects, from $1.27 billion to $2.07 billion;
• municipal roadway pavement and surface condition improvements from $25 million to $90 million; and
• the public realm improvement program from $10 million to $22 million, which supports grants to municipalities for improvements to sidewalks, streets and parking spaces to create additional capacity for pedestrians and cyclists.
House Bill 5375 now moves to the Senate for its consideration.
Representative Steven S. Howitt Questions
Proposed Social Media Restrictions and Ban on Cell Phones in School
Cites privacy concerns, costs and prioritizing local control in opposing bill
Boston – While endorsing the underlying policy goals of protecting children from online predators and minimizing distractions in the classroom, State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R-Seekonk) recently voiced opposition to pending legislation limiting or banning the use of social media by minors while also prohibiting students’ use of cell phones in school.
In voting against House Bill 5349, An Act promoting safe technology use and distraction-free education for youth, Representative Howitt cited multiple concerns about the proposal, including free speech and privacy issues. He also said the associated costs of implementing the changes could constitute an unfunded mandate on local school districts, while expressing a desire to maintain local control in setting policies, rather than imposing a blanket, one size fits all law.
The Senate previously approved a school cell phone ban on July 31, 2025, but that legislation did not address social media concerns. The House bill, however, includes a unilateral ban on social media use for users under 14, while allowing for 14- and 15-year-olds to access these sites with parental approval, which would take effect on October 1.
Under House Bill 5349, which passed the House on a vote of 129-25 on April 8, social media platforms would be required to implement policies which prohibit individuals under the age of 14 from creating or maintaining an account on their platforms. This would include the implementation of age verification systems and a mandate that any accounts identified as belonging to individuals under the age of 14 be terminated. Social media companies would face a fine of up to $5,000 for every user under the age of 14 whose account they fail to remove.
According to Representative Howitt, House Bill 5349 requires social media companies to publicly post the number of users processed using their age verification systems, those denied access due to not meeting age requirements, those granted access due to an age determination appeal process, and all age verification review requests received. Failure to do so may result in a fine of up to $1 million per day.
House Bill 5349 also requires school districts to implement policies prohibiting student use of personal electronic devices (PEDs) on school grounds during class time and school-sponsored activities, including mobile phones, smartwatches, and non-school issued tablets and laptops. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) will provide a model policy to assist schools in developing and implementing these policies, which school districts must submit to DESE by September 1.
Representative Howitt believes that restricting cell phone use by students while they are in school is appropriate to encourage a focus on studies but said it would be better for local school committees, rather than the state, to set specific guidelines. Representative Howitt also criticized the House’s decision to merge the social media provisions with the cell phone ban, noting that similar social media bills passed in other states have faced legal challenges.
During debate, Representative Howitt supported an amendment to address unfunded mandate concerns, as nothing in the bill was to be construed as requiring any school district to incur new or additional costs for compliance, yet the amendment failed on a vote of 27-126, with only two Democrats voting in favor.
The House and Senate are expected to soon appoint a conference committee that will work to resolve the differences between the two branches’ proposals.
CLASSIFIEDS Place
YARD SALE
LARGE YARD SALE: Furniture, appliances, electronics. Sunday, May 24th. 10am3pm,146 Reservoir Ave. Rehoboth, MA.
EVENTS
Seekonk Flea Market at Seekonk Speedway is open, 7am-1pm every Sunday until December 6th. 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.
FOR SALE
PORTABLE MASSAGE TABLE FOR SALE. Sierra Comfort brand, model (SC1004), Table: length 73", width 33.5", depth 2", adjustable height 16.5" to 24.5", weight 38 lbs. Excellent condition. $100 obo. Call John at 401-435-3142.
FOR RENT
4-car garage for rent in Warren: Perfect for 4 antique cars because of long length and is clean, dry, secure. I am real easy to work with so any garage modifications according to your needs won’t be an issue. $600 per month or best offer. Michael 401-243-4467.
HELP WANTED
Yard Work Help Wanted Seekonk: Dependable young man to assist with general residential yard work, on Seekonk/Attleboro line. One day a week, for 4 hours, 1-5 pm, $30 an hour. Call (508) 444-2125.
Yard Work Help Wanted Riverside:
Thinking of Buying or Selling your House?
Teenage boy or girl to do yard work part time, $15/hr, in Riverside, call Delfina at 401-433-2922
Landscape Laborer Help Wanted: Part Time/ Full Time Seasonal Landscape Laborer for Horticultural Creations. Some knowledge preferred but willing to train. Must be reliable & have own transportation. Good starting pay. Call Tim 508-965-2240.
Caregivers Wanted: Advocare Senior Living is a non-medical agency looking for compassionate caregivers to work with seniors in our area. We offer competitive pay and flexible hours including days, nights, weekends, and overnights. Duties include companionship, light housekeeping, taking clients to appointments, running errands and meal prep. Please call 401-434-6727 for more information.
Be Part of a Winning Teaching Team: Teacher Openings at Twin Oaks Farm Learning Center. All positions - Infants, Toddler & Preschool. Small classes, country setting, college opportunities, dental and vision insurance, retirement plans. Curriculum planning and professional support. At Twin Oaks, we want both teachers and children to be happy, kind, and safe. Located at 127 Tremont St, Rehoboth MA. Call 508-252-5522 for your interview.
WANTED
WANTED: flower vases and baskets, please donate. Call Debbie at 401-632-3602.
Donations of unwanted household items for local charity raffle baskets, such as: glassware, jewelry, unused gift cards, pet items, indoor & outdoor décor. Will pick up. Call Debbie 401-632-3602.
Cash paid for vintage trading cards, video games, comics and toys. Call, txt Ernie- 508-662-1959 or email ernieboas@ gmail.com
JUNK CARS wanted up to $500 paid no key? No title? Not running? No problem! For 24/7 pick ups call or text 401-895-7351
PERSONAL AD
Nice guy looking for a woman: Between 50-60 for companionship, dancing, and dining out. Call Kevin at 401-259-9393.
SERVICES
Handymen and landscape, small repairs and masonry and fence fully trained. Monday through Saturday 8 to 5. Always professional. Dependable, on time. Experienced. Affordable pricing. 339-927-5473
Ductless Mini Split Preventive Maintenance Cleaning Service - Summer is approaching and ductless mini split systems are a hosting ground for mold and bacteria is not properly maintained. Get your system professionally cleaned and sanitized, Prices start at $150 per head - Visit www.ductlessinstalls.com to schedule your cleaning.
I am a Personal Care Assistant & Housekeeper willing to help you! I can help you with meal prep, medication reminders, shower assistance, shopping/errands, laundry, light cleaning. Call Terri for information and rates. 774-284-7600.
Handyman/Home Repairs/Improvements: GSS Property Solutions LLC. Registered, Bonded, Fully Insured. Servicing Mass & RI. Call or Text 401-688-9749.
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I Am a Licensed Real Estate Agent 'Referral Specialist' helping YOU find the Right Real Estate Agent for Your Needs. I earn a referral fee for connecting you with
Thinking of Buying or Selling your House?
I Am a Licensed Real Estate Agent 'Referral Specialist' Helping YOU find the Right Real Estate Agent for Your Needs I earn a referral fee for connecting you with topperforming local professionals... at No additional cost to you.
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.
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.
Bicycle Sales & Service: Your Bike Shops –Tune-ups on all brands. Spring is here! Now is the time to get your bike tuned up! 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 service and NEW Spring hours. 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.
