March 2026

The Seeko Seekon nk

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MARCH 2026 VOLUME 38, NO. 3

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Annual Town Election Monday, April 6th

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2 The Reporter March 2026

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4 The Reporter March 2026

Letters to the Editor...

On the Cover: Inside a greenhouse, early blooms and greenery hint at the start of the spring gardening season.

Photo by David Andrade Photography

Inside This Issue Business Directory.....................76 Church News..............................37 Classifieds...............................78 Club Announcements.................43 Events......................................33 Fitness...................................40 Food & Dining.............................68 Letters to the Editor.....................4 Library......................................

Blanding.......................52

New South Seekonk Fire Station - A Need Not a Want!

I am a current member of the Seekonk Select Board, and at present, the only member in support of allowing voters to exercise their constitutional right to vote on making a crucial decision at the Annual Town Election on April 6, 2026, which would determine the fate of the new South Fire Station. This station is a must not a want like other town projects. This much needed facility was initially proposed in June 2020 by the then sitting Board of Selectman at Town Meeting where a request for $425,000.00 was made to design a South Fire Station. This proposal was enthusiastically approved. The Town Administrator, at the time, spoke in support of this warrant article, citing the need to reduce response times, reduce the need for mutual aid from surrounding municipalities, and add a significant increase in ambulance receipts, which would provide additional revenue for the town. The South Fire Station would ultimately result in an overall improvement in service. I encourage residents to review the “South End Fire Station Building Committee” documents I previously provided which can currently be found on the Town’s website. The documents support the clear need for this facility and include the comments made in support of the Station.

Since these comments were made in June 2020 at Town Meeting, our town has grown both residentially and commercially. As a result, the response time for a fire truck and/ or rescue to arrive on scene has increased exponentially. Mutual Aid has increased. The revenue obtained from ambulance calls/billing would increase significantly due to new fees recently implemented. This would result in substantial revenue for the town. To illustrate exactly how much revenue could be generated, we could use the numbers provided by the town administrator in 2020. He estimated mutual aid calls at approximately 100 annually, (it is my belief this number has increased since then). The increased fee(s) for the use of ambulance transport is $4,000-$5,000, per trip. This could potentially generate $400,000$500,000 in additional revenue per year!

During the February 18, 2026, Select Board Meeting, a detailed presentation was made by our Fire Chief on the present and future of the Seekonk Fire Department “Operational

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March 2026 The Reporter Readiness: Staffing & Infrastructure”. This presentation was very well prepared with pertinent details and information. I thank the chief for his effort and the presentation and wholeheartedly support the need to improve resources for the Fire Department. The Fire Department is currently the most critically under-resourced department in the town — a serious concern when the public and firefighter safety are on the line.

I must emphasize the importance of the South End Fire Station as a major component of the “Operational Readiness: Staffing & Infrastructure”.

Much needed staffing and equipment can only be provided and of assistance to the public, most efficiently, when the appropriate infrastructure is strategically positioned throughout the town. At present, the South End is the busiest district, with approximately 2/3 of all calls for the SFD.The activity will only increase as pending commercial businesses come into operation; that district cannot be serviced adequately, efficiently, or properly from the Public Safety Center located on Taunton Ave. Response times can be 9-12 minutes, sometimes more, with the need for mutual aid from a surrounding municipality, making it difficult to save life and/or property. The response time will just become greater with the increase in traffic generated by businesses due to open. This new Station will improve overall efficiency by the SFD. We are fortunate that the Chairman of the South End Fire Station Building Committee previously applied for the Building Permit for this project. That permit is currently on hold pending an Earth Removal Permit from the Select Board. A recent conversation with the architect for the project confirmed the estimated budget of $9,500,000 is still within the current range of cost. We have the added benefit of the Permit Extension Act, which allows us to utilize the original plans, until December 31, 2026. If we allow the permit to expire, it will cost the Town millions more for new plans and construction costs.

Additionally, the proposed South End Fire Station was also to house the new Communications Department, however, this part of the plan has now been cancelled. This cancellation could/would provide additional space for the Police Department such as an unmanned outpost, a training room, or any other potential use to be decided by the department itself.

The town generally chooses Debt Exclusions for funding major projects such as this.

This requires a vote of Town Meeting and a vote at the Ballot at our Annual Election or a Special Election. This process can be in either order. Two previous Town Meeting votes resulted in a positive response, however, to pass, a 2/3 majority vote is needed. The first vote was 51% to 49%, the second was 65% to 35%. The second Town Meeting was just 7 votes short! These two affirmative votes demonstrate support for this project.

The request to place this question on the Ballot for resident to decide was solely mine.

The town election is scheduled for April 6, 2026. The reason for my request was twofold and intentional. Placing the question on the April 6th ballot adds no additional costs to the Town or residents. Additionally, voting once provides convenience for the voters. In the alternative, holding a special election will cost upwards of $10,000.00 and will require voters to make an additional trip to the polls to vote. Placing this question on the ballot for the upcoming election just made sense. Unfortunately, and to my utter disappointment, not 1 board member agreed.

I am deeply concerned that the Select Board denied you the ability to decide for yourself and undermined your constitutional right to cast your vote.

It is deeply concerning that the Select Board’s decision restricted your ability to make an independent choice on what directly affects your safety.

Based on the financial information supplied by the Town Administrator at the time, the Town would assume a 20-year bond in the amount of $9,500,000 at a 4% percentage rate.

To calculate the project cost per household, we can use fiscal year 2026 information. The median household value is $493,000, and there are 3,276 properties at or below the average single-family assessed value of $558,474. The fiscal year 2026 Average Single Family Tax Bill Impact (estimated new) is a mere $89.36.

HOME VALUE / TAX IMPACT: $250,000 / $40.00; $350,000 / $56.00; $450,000 / $72.00; $550,000 / $88.00; $650,000 / $104.00; $750,000 / $120.00; $850,000 / $136.00; $950,000 / $152.00 The basic method to determine the tax impact is to multiply your tax assessment per thousand of value X $.16. Example $500,000 assessed value x $.16= $90.00 annually for 20 years.

Hopefully we will have a path forward to getting this facility under construction no later than 2026. Please contact me with any comments or questions.

5

The Rehoboth/Seekonk

Reporter P.O. Box 377 Rehoboth, MA 02769

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6 The Reporter March 2026

Rehoboth Town News From the Town Clerk

Laura Schwall

Hello All ~ Happy March! Hope you have been keeping warm and are finally able to dig out from our record snowstorm. Thank you everyone involved in clearing our streets, driveways and sidewalks. The Rehoboth Town Clerk’s Office has been busy processing over 6,000 town census forms, 1,058 dog-tags/licenses, certifying election nomination papers for Town and State officials, and submitting FY 2027 budgets, while also preparing for the upcoming April 7, 2026 Annual Town Election (ATE) including sending off the ATE ballot to be printed.

Happy 3rd Anniversary Kerrie Perkins and Jennifer Hose - Rehoboth Town Clerk’s Office

Speaking of the Town Clerk’s Office, please join me in congratulating Kerrie Perkins, Assistant Town Clerk and Jennifer Hose, Assistant Town Clerk, who began working for the Town on February 13, 2023. Both Kerrie and Jenn bring a wealth of experience to the Town Clerk’s Office and have been absolutely wonderful in assisting the residents and voters of Rehoboth. Personally speaking, Jenn and Kerrie have been awesome to work with. We have a great team in the Clerk’s Office and I am thankful they both decided to work for the Town of Rehoboth. Congratulations ladies on your third anniversary ~ we look forward to many more!

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Upcoming Seekonk-Rehoboth Rabies Clinic – Saturday, March 14, 2026

Seekonk has graciously offered to hold another Joint Town Rabies Clinic at their Public Safety Building (Fire Division), which is located off of Route 44 by the blinking yellow light: 500 Taunton Avenue, Seekonk, MA. The clinic will open at 9:00AM and close at 12:00-Noon on Saturday, March 14, 2026. The Rabies clinic is open to non-residents and Rehoboth or Seekonk animal owners. Rabies Fee is $15 per animal – Cash only accepted for vaccinations. Cats and ferrets must be in a secured carrier, dogs on leashes. For MA and RI animal owners, in order to be issued a MA three-year Rabies certificate you must bring your previous MA or RI three-year Rabies certificate from your veterinarian or clinic. A one-year vaccination certificate will be issued if you do not have your current rabies certificate. The clinic is open to dogs, cats, and ferrets. Dr. Truesdale from Central Ave Veterinary Hospital will be administering the vaccinations. Proceeds will benefit the Seekonk Animal Control Department. The Rehoboth Town Clerk’s Office will be there to renew your dog’s 2026 Dog License. We accept, Cash, Check or Credit Card/EFT payments. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Rehoboth Town Clerk’s Office at 508-252-6502 X-3109, 3112, or 3110. We look forward to seeing you, your dogs, and cats. Thank you for keeping our pets safe by having them inoculated.

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To those of you submitting your census documents and for registering your dog(s) so promptly ~ thank you. We mailed 6,022 census forms in January and received and processed 4,971 households to date; which is up from 168 more than last year. We are still looking for 1,051 census forms to be returned (Precinct 1=278; Precinct 2=266; Precinct 3=246 and Precinct 4=261). If you did not send in your 2026 census, please forward it as soon as possible.

A second mailing went out this month to those residents for whom we do not have phone numbers listed on their census reports and our Registrars, Helene, Tina and Jenn, are calling the remaining residents that have listed phone numbers this month. Census forms were due January 31st and Dog Licenses will be due by April 1st.

Also, anyone wishing a second 2026 calendar, please either stop by town hall and pick up your copy or let us know, we do have a few extras and can mail to you if you would like.

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2026 Dog Licenses are now available and may be obtained in-person, by mail, online at https://permiteyes.us/rehoboth/ publichome.php for renewal licenses OR for a newly registered dog(s), which we do not have on file, please contact our office.

You may also drop off your dog licensing documents at the Town Hall drop box (340 Anawan Street). An application for dog license renewal was included in your 2026 Census mailer and directions for using the new Online Dog License program @ https:// www.rehobothma.gov/town-clerk/pages/ dog-licenses or contact our office – 508-2526502 X-3109 or X-3112. The licensing fees are as follows: Male or female dog $20.00, female-spayed or male-neutered $10.00. If

March 2026 The Reporter

7

paying by check, please make sure it is made payable to “Town of older. Proof of rabies vaccinations for each dog and proof of the Rehoboth”. Dog licenses are due annually by April 1st. Whether dog owner’s age (70 or older) is required. As per Town Counsel, renewing online, via mail, drop box, or in person, dog license apthis does not include Kennel Fees. plications must be accompanied by a current year rabies certificate (with a vaccination date covering the current licensing year-May The Annual Town Election 1st or later) and proof of spay or neuter [if applying for the $10 The Annual Town Election for the Town of Rehoboth will be licensing fee] unless we already have your documentation on file held on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, with the polls open from 7 AM to 8 in the Clerk’s Office. If you are unsure, please give the office a PM – Polling Location for all four precincts is Francis Farm Comcall, and we can tell you how up-to-date our information is. Dog munity Center (27 Francis Farm Road) – Heritage Meeting Hall, owners should note that the license(s) to be mailed must include formerly known as the Museum building. If you would like to review a stamped, self-addressed envelope (the current postage is 74¢ the facility and layout of the polling location, please visit the Town for one dog tag, $1.03 for two or three dog tags and $1.32 for four Website at: https://www.rehobothma.gov/home/news/rehobothtags). As of this writing, we have processed 1,058 of the 2,000+ changes-its-centralized-polling-location-francis-farm-communitydog licenses, which is 143 more than last year at this time ~ thank center-museum Additional details will be communicated as we you all for submitting so quickly and if you have not registered your get closer to the election. As always, the Town website will have dog, please do so prior to the April 1st deadline ~ thank you. updated polling information when available.

Reminder, all residents 70-years old or over do not need to pay continued on next page... the $10 or $20 yearly dog licensing fee. I submitted an article at the May 8, 2017 Annual Town Meeting (Article 15) requesting Town Meeting vote to accept MGL CHAPTER 140 SECTION 139(c), which states “No fee shall 2 Burnside Ave. • Seekonk, MA 02771 • https://www.facebook.com/tmland/ be charged for a license issued under this section for a service animal as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act or regulations promulgated thereunder. No fee shall be Over 20 Years charged for a license for a dog owned by a Experience! person aged 70 years or over in a city or town that accepts this provision”. Town meeting did approve the acceptance of MGL Chapter Services 140 Section 139 (c), which permits the Town Clerk’s Office to waive dog licensing fees Bobcat, Backhoe Service, Land Clearing, Walkways, Retainer Walls, for service animals and for dogs owned by Underground Sprinklers, Lawn Seed or Sod, Design Plantings any Rehoboth resident 70 years of age and

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8 The Reporter March 2026 Town Nomination papers have been returned and certified.

The following Positions to be elected on the ballot for 2026 are Moderator (one for 1 year), Board of Selectmen (two positions for 3 years), Assessor (one for 3 years), Constable (one for 3 years) School Committee (two for 3 years), Housing Authority (one for 5 years), Planning Board (one for 5 years), Park Commission (one for 5 years), and Water Commissioner (two for 3 years).

As of now, it appears we will have one contested race (3-year term D-R School Committee). The Democratic Town Committee nominated: Bill Cute-Moderator for re-election, Lori Beth LesniakD-R Regional School Committee and Paul Jacques-re-electionHousing Authority. The Republican Town Committee nominated: Rob Johnson and Lenny Mills-re-election-2-Selectman positions, Ricardo Binetti-re-election Assessor, Lisa Halajko-Park Commission, Patrick Landry-re-election-Planning Board, Patricia (Tish) Vadnais-re-election Water Commission along with endorsing Katie Eyer for re-election to the second Water Commissioner position.

The Republican Town Committee also endorsed Aaron Morse for D-R School Committee. Finally, our office certified nomination papers received from Aaron Morse-D-R School Committee-3-year and Katie Eyer-3-year-Water Commission. As mentioned above; both endorsed by the Republican Town Committee.

The final voter registration date, to be eligible to vote in the Annual Town Election, is scheduled for Saturday, March 28th from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Prospective voters are reminded that they may also register to vote online at www.RegisterToVoteMA.com , by calling the Town Clerk’s Office to request a Mail-In Voter Registration Form, or download a form @ http://www.sec.state.ma.us/ele/ elepdf/Voter-reg-mail-in.pdf Registration forms are also available at the Post Office, Blanding Library and Francis Farm COA. Do you need a Vote-by-Mail ballot for the Annual Town Election?

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If so, please complete a Vote-by-Mail application @ https://www.sec. state.ma.us/divisions/elections/download/vote-by-mail-applications/ Vote-by-Mail-Paper-Application-2025.pdf or stop by the Town Clerk’s office to receive a copy of the application.

Finally, if you have any questions on any of the above items discussed, please feel free to contact the Town Clerk’s Office at 508-252-6502, X3109, X3112 or X3110. Kerrie, Jenn and I wish all residents a Happy St. Patrick’s Day and we hope to see many of you at the upcoming March 14, 2026 Rabies Clinic and April 7, 2026 Annual Town Election – details above. Please keep warm and safe. I look forward to speaking with you in April. Please mark your calendars to vote at the April 7th Election at Francis Farm; Town Meeting will be June 2nd .

Thank you ~ please stay well!

Laura

Rehoboth Selectmen Approve Ambulance Lease

By Joe Siegel

The Board of Selectmen voted Monday to approve the lease agreement for the use of a Town owned ambulance by Rehoboth Ambulance. In February 2025, the town signed a new contract with Rehoboth Ambulance, which expires on June 30.

Under the terms of the contract: • Rehoboth Ambulance shall acquire, maintain, and pay all attendant vehicle costs necessary to comply with this Agreement.

• Rehoboth Ambulance shall assume all costs of its staffing, supplies, telephone, diesel fuel, gasoline, oil, maintenance, materials, communication system, equipment, and all other items required in the proper operation of the service. Rehoboth Ambulance shall maintain all mobile radios, portable radios, pagers and other notifications, apps or devices to the latest system capability.

• Service records of any Rehoboth Ambulance vehicles utilized in the Town shall be made available to the Town at the request of the Fire Chief, Police Chief, or the Board of Selectmen.

In October 2024, Rehoboth was awarded Bristol County ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funds to purchase a new ambulance.

The Rehoboth Ambulance Committee will be able to use it as they see fit.

Dighton-Rehoboth School Committee Approves $56.1 Million Budget

By Joe Siegel

The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Committee approved a budget of $56.1 million for FY’27 at their February 26 meeting.

The committee also voted to allocate $750,000 in E and D (excess and deficiency) funds toward the budget.

Superintendent Bill Runey gave his tentative budget proposal of $56.1 million, which reflected a 4.35 percent districtwide increase.

The impact to the town of Dighton would be a 4.54 percent increase, while Rehoboth would see an increase of 1.8 percent over last year.

That increase amounts to $2.3 million. Runey will be presenting an updated version of the budget at the March 10 School Committee meeting following additional internal review. The district will hold its required Public Budget Hearing on March 24, where the community will have an opportunity to comment before the School Committee finalizes the proposal.

There are five new teaching positions in the budget, including four at the high school. Three are for the Career and Technical Education program: Criminal Justice and Public Safety, Culinary Hospitality and Food Service, and Medical Careers along with targeted student support staffing.

“I feel like it’s the right time for us to expand these offerings,” Runey explained.

For special education, Runey is asking for an additional position at Palmer River Elementary School. Palmer River had lost two special educators in 2024.

March 2026 The Reporter “Palmer River is our largest school at this point,” Runey said.

“They are slightly outpacing enrollment at the high school.”

The district had experienced “severe personnel impacts” during the last few years, Runey noted. “We’ve started to claw our way back with a net increase of one position (in FY’26), as of now there are zero positions we plan on cutting.”

Runey said the district’s enrollment is up by 53 students compared to the beginning of the school year. “Our high school enrollment continues to go up. We’ve got an outstanding high school and through efforts like early college, increased CTE offerings, outstanding theater, band, music, athletics. We’re slowly getting people to understand there’s something for everybody at Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School and it’s paying off for us.”

Why are Dark Skies Good for You? Rehoboth Land Trust Nature’s Voices Speaker Series April 12, 2026 @2pm - Carpenter Museum

Dark skies are critical for the health of humans and animals alike, yet light pollution gets worse every year. Join Rehoboth Land Trust at our annual meeting to hear J. Kelly Beatty, science educator and former editor at Sky & Telescope magazine, as he reveals the benefits of dark skies and how we can help. Kelly served for more than a decade on the Board of Directors for DarkSky International, and is now an officer with the Massachusetts chapter of DarkSky. You also may have heard him as a popular guest on the Boston Public Radio show on WGBH. This is the second of five events in RLT’s 2026 Nature’s Voices Speaker Series. Mark your calendars for the rest of the series:

May 16, 2026 @6:30pm - Fundamentals of Nature Photography, Dennis Goulet - Carpenter Museum

Are you an aspiring photographer? Is your social media full of pretty pics from the outdoors? Hone your photo 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.

June 14, 2026 @11:30am - Live Animal Show, Capron Park Zoo - Goff 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.

September 8, 2026 @6:30pm - Mushroom Chat & Chomp, Mushroom Hunting Foundation - Goff Hall

RLT is thrilled to partner with the Blanding Public Library to present the Mushroom Hunting Foundation. Learn all about the when, what, where, and how of responsible mushroom foraging from Foundation cofounders Ryan and Emily Bouchard. Not sure exactly how to prepare all those mushrooms when you’re done foraging? You’re in luck! They’ll also demonstrate different ways to cook mouth-watering mushroom meals.

All events are free and open to the public. The Rehoboth Land Trust 2026 Nature’s Voices Speaker Series is funded in part by a grant from the Rehoboth Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency. Thank you RCC! Rehoboth Land Trust, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization funded entirely by donations and run by dedicated volunteers. We are not a town committee. Learn more at www.rehobothlandtrust.org.

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10 The Reporter March 2026

It’s A Birthday Blizzard of Giving!

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Birthday presents for our Rehoboth children DR. FRANK CASARELLA & DR. LURI LEE

The Blizzard of Giving, Inc. is available all year round to help Rehoboth Children. We are here to help make your child’s birthday Date: Saturday, March 14 even more special! Please visit our website www.rehobothblizTime: 7:00PM zardofgiving.org where you can access our request forms and more Place: Seekonk Gun Club information.

61 Reed Street, If you would like to include your child(ren) in our Birthday BlizRehoboth, MA 02769 zard list, please provide the following information: Contact Robert Johnson for tickets: Per Ticket • Parent/Guardian’s name, address, email, phone (508) 243-4160 • Child’s name, birthdate, school, grade, clothing size, gender, and general interests.

Beer, soda & water will be available to purchase.

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 DR. FRANK CASARELLA & DR. LURI LEE 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 To Benefit the Rehoboth Republican Committee

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Rehoboth Animal Shelter News

There is a beautiful cat at the Rehoboth Animal Shelter. “Bedbug” is a cuddly tabbyand-white spayed female with silky fur. She is healthy, vaccinated, and adores cuddles.

For more information about Bedbug or other adoptable pets, see our listings at Petfinder. com. To make an appointment or to report a lost or found pet, please call the shelter at 508-252-5421, ext. 126, and leave a message.

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APRIL 26 ELECTiON_Layout 1 2/26/2026 3:54 PM Page 1

March 2026 The Reporter

t U E S D AY, A P R I L 7 T H A T F R A N C I S FA R M

VOTE VOTE

All Candidates are Nominated or Endorsed by the Rehoboth Republican Town Committee

VOTE VOTE

D-R School Committee Richard S. Barrett

RE Elect

D-R School Committee Aaron Morse

RE Elect

21 Year Incumbent I look forward to continued collaboration with our Superintendent

6 year Incumbent Chairman and Vice Chairman for the School Committee Serves on the Negotiations, Capital, and Budget Subcommittees

Board of Selectmen

Robert E. Johnson, II

RE Elect

Board of Selectmen

Leonard Mills, Jr

RE Elect

Park Commission

Lisa Halajko

Water Commission

Patricia A. Vadnais

RE Elect

Planning Board

Patrick Landry

RE Elect

Board of Assessors

Riccardo Binetti

RE Elect

Water Commission

Katie Eyer

RE Elect

Constable

Gary Zimmer

RE Elect

Army Lieutenant Colonel Retired

FISCAL CONSERVATISM LEADERSHIP INTEGRITY

Elect

E T O

V

Thank You for your vote Paid for by the Rehoboth Republican Town Committee

11

12

The Reporter March 2026

A Timeless Stay in Historic Rehoboth Anawan B&B is located in beautiful historic Rehoboth, Massachusetts in a restored 200 year old carriage house. Built in 1840 by Cyril Carpenter Peck Sr. and his wife Cynthia Hicks, the farmhouse and carriage house have long been a part of the rich history of Rehoboth.

Candidates for Rehoboth Town Election

By Joe Siegel

Three candidates will be competing for two seats on the Dighton Rehoboth Regional School Committee in the April 7 Town Election.

• Incumbents Richard Barrett and Aaron Morse will face challenger Lori Beth Lesniak. The terms are three years each.

• Incumbent Selectmen Robert E. Johnson and Leonard Mills will be running unopposed for three year terms.

• Paul Jacques will be unopposed for a five year term on the Housing Authority.

• Lisa M. Halajko will be unopposed for a five year term on the Park Commission.

• Incumbent William Cute will be running unopposed for a one year term as Moderator.

• Riccardo Binetti will be running unopposed for a three year term on the Board of Assessors.

• Patrick Matthew Landry will be running unopposed for a five year term on the Planning Board.

• Gary Allen Zimmer is unopposed for Constable. The term is three years.

• Katie E. Eyer and Patricia Ann Vadnais are running unopposed for three year terms on the Water Commission.

2 4 9 A N AWA N S T REHOBOTH, MA 02769

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Winter Hours

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Fresh eggs daily!

Rehoboth Fire Department Assisted

by Neighboring Towns

By Joe Siegel

Several neighboring towns provided assistance to Rehoboth firefighters battling a blaze on Summer Street on Sunday.

A shortage of water and bitterly cold temperatures were major obstacles.

“Seekonk Engine came on the scene to help,” Selectman Rob Johnson said Monday. “They opened a hydrant for us a couple miles away in their town. We shuttled back and forth with our tankers. We have three tankers. We also had Plainville, Raynham, Warren, and Berkley come in with their tankers and we ran a shuttle for water.”

Johnson quoted Fire Chief Mark Haskell saying 42,000 gallons of water were used. The home suffered severe damage. The occupants were able to get out of the house safely.

Crews from Dighton, Swansea, and Norton also helped extinguish the fire.

Get your eggs to color for Easter!!

Visit the Farm for our Spring Easter Event March 28th!

Follow us on FB for details!

187 Pleasant Street, Rehoboth, MA www.pleasantstreetfamily.com (774) 468-2015

Photo courtesy of Rehoboth Fire Department.

March 2026 The Reporter

13

Record Breaking Blizzard Closed Town Offices & Schools

By Joe Siegel

Town services in Rehoboth and Seekonk were severely impacted after the February 22nd blizzard dumped over 30 inches of snow on both communities.

Rehoboth Town Hall and the Council on Aging were closed for a week due to the storm.

On February 23, numerous power outages were reported to National Grid. 231 customers were impacted. The outages were on Pine St, Tremont St, Homestead Ave, Hillside Ave, Cross St, Sweeney Road, Talbot Drive, Agricultural Ave., Walker St, and Finnigans Way. Selectman Lenny Mills praised the town’s Highway Department for their efforts to clear the roadways. “Due to investing in the right equipment and maintaining it for optimal readiness, Team Highway has successfully delivered uninterrupted services throughout the storm and will continue to provide additional services this morning,” Mills wrote on his Facebook page February 24.

“We are securing additional heavy equipment,” read a post on the Town’s Facebook page. “Our (Department of Public Works) crews have had heavy equipment operating since yesterday. However, standard plow trucks were getting stuck or simply could not move this unprecedented amount of snow.”

“Official reports indicate Seekonk received approximately 30 inches of snow; and that does not account for snow drifts reaching 5 to 6 feet (or more) in some areas.

This was a historic blizzard, and conditions on many streets reflect that reality. Several neighboring cities and towns are facing the same; if not worse; conditions. This storm impacted the entire region.”

“This was an unprecedented storm,” read a post on the Police Department’s Facebook page. “As a result, it calls for unprecedented patience. We understand many roads are unplowed. However, we don’t control what gets plowed, when or how. DPW is doing their best and they are doing a great job.”

Dighton-Rehoboth Regional Schools remained closed for the week and reopened on March 2.

On February 25, School Superintendent Bill Runey said “the safety of first responders, DPW workers, and our facilities team is our priority right now. We have begun cleanup efforts on each of our three campuses, but we have a long way to go.”

Seekonk Town Hall and the Senior Center were closed for a week. Scattered power outages were reported.

Seekonk schools were closed for four days. They reopened on a two hour delay on February 27.

“The schools’ Facilities Team is working with a contractor and their heavy equipment to gain safe access to the school buildings,

as DPW rightly has their focus on getting your streets safe and clear,” Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell said on February 23. “The work began at Martin and has progressed to Seekonk High, with plans to keep heading north. We will also be working to clear the North and Pleasant Street schools. As the team gains access to the buildings, we must ensure that the heat works, plumbing is still in good condition, and roofs are safe.

Additionally, our Tech Services team will be

working to ensure that the network bounces back from power outages.”

“Please bear in mind that our 300+ educational staff members are spread across southern Massachusetts and Rhode Island, working to get their own vehicles and driveways clear, waiting for their neighborhoods to be cleared as well. This will be a long duration cleanup, but it is our goal to provide the opportunity for your children to return to the buildings as soon as we can,” Kidwell added.

VOTE Tuesday, April 7th At Francis Farm Great candidates, endorsed by the Rehoboth Democratic Town Committee

Re-Elect William J. Cute for Town Moderator Life-long resident; beloved teacher.

Has served as Moderator for 18 great years.

Elect Lori Lesniak for D-R School Committee Parent of children in the schools, active on parent committees.

22 years of Bookkeeper Experience.

A voice for all! www.loridrsc.com

Re-Elect Paul W. Jacques for Housing Authority Has served on the Rehoboth Housing Authority for 5 years and is its Chair.

Experienced and committed.

Fairness | Openness | Responsibility Integrity | Togetherness

Thank you for your vote!

Paid for by the Rehoboth Democratic Town Committee

14

The Reporter March 2026

Rehoboth Council on Aging

Francis Hall 27 Francis Farm Road, Rehoboth Phone 508-252-3372 Fax 508-252-4716 Monday - Thursday 8:00am to 4:00pm Fridays 8:00am to Noon

Piano Serenade

Fridays 10:30 - 11:00

Russell Raiche will be playing the piano for us

Book Club

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

Join Our Walking Club Mon-Wed-Friday 10:00AM

Breakfast

Mon / Wed / Fri From 8:30-10

Lunch

Mon / Wed @ Noon. Come join us

Nutrition and Food Myths

By Tara Hammes RDN from MCOA

Thursday March 12th @ 10:00

Muffins & coffee served

Basket Weaving Class

Painted Casserole Basket

Monday March 9th 8-3 $55.00

Double Color Basket

Monday March 23 8-3 $50.00 Please sign up Limited seating for both classes

Shake Your Shamrocks Lunch Wednesday March 11th @ Noon Tickets $10.00. Please sign up Limited Seating

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.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! from your friends at

Swan Brook Assisted Living 924 Gardners Neck Road, Swansea, MA • 508-324-9074

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 10:30 Bocce Noon Gert’s Café ~ Ltd seating ~ $5.00 1:00 Line Dancing $3.00

Tuesdays

9:00 Dancer-cise $3.00 10:00 Jewelry Making Class $5.00 Glass etching, wool felting, and more.

Classes priced accordingly 10:00 Seated Yoga Fusion $3.00 Gentle Yoga with blend of movement and breathwork 10:00 Sewing & Quilting 11:00 Functional Fitness $3.00 StrengthBalance-Cardio-Stretch with a mix of props and great music 1:00 Hi-Lo Jack 1:00- 3:00 Crafty Fun Classes $5

Wednesdays

8:30 - 10:00 Breakfast 10:00 Walking Club 10:00 Fiber Arts (Knitting & Crochet get together. Jane Williams) 10:30 Bocce 10:30 Cornhole Toss Noon Lunch Ltd seating ~ $5.00 1:00-3:00 Acrylic Painting Class $5.00 1:00-3:00 Dominoes

Thursday

9:00 Tai Chi $3.00 10:00 Drums Alive $3.00 Fun, rhythmic cardio workout using stability balls and drumsticks 11:00 Functional Fitness $3.00 StrengthBalance-Cardio-Stretch with a mix of props and great music Noon Soup to Go 1:00-3:00 Paper Crafting Class: Card Making, Stamping, Cricut Machine $5.00 1:00-3:00 Watercolor Class $5.00

Friday

8:30 - 10:00 Breakfast 10:00 Walking Club 10:30 Bocce 10:30 Cornhole Toss 10:30 -11:00 piano Serenade by Russell Raiche

As always, all pricing is a suggested donation.

Please sign up for Lunch ahead of time. This helps Chef Chico plan meals

March 2026 The Reporter

Rehoboth Public Health Nurse

Geraldine Hamel, RN MSN: Monday through Thursday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. 508-252-5947 Stephanie Reis, RN BSN: 508-252-6052 ext. 3128 Offering multiple medical services for our Rehoboth citizens: Home Visits, Vaccinations. Support groups: Bereavement, Caregiver Assistance, Dementia Support and more • Wellness Clinic Wednesday 11:00-Noon • Podiatry Clinic: Last Thursday of the month • Blood Pressures & Glucose Screenings Please contact Geri Hamel for more information on these services.

Rehoboth Council on Aging A Municipal Department of the Town

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

The Rehoboth Senior Center shall serve as a community focal point and an inclusive support system where Rehoboth’s elder citizens: • Can engage in leisure, wellness, educational, and social programs that promote an enhanced quality of life and socialemotional health and well-being • Can enjoy onsite meals prepared in the senior center kitchen and be served in the building’s dining area • Can connect to their peers and community • Can foster inter-generational relationships and shared activities • Can obtain information on and access to governmental supports and programs that connect people to transportation, housing, nutritional, and economic assistance • Can gain access to health information and resources to support independence and ensure healthy aging in our community • Can seek out opportunities for lifetime learning and volunteering and civic engagement The Rehoboth Senior Center’s vision is to grow and expand our offerings while preserving our commitment to the dignity and worth of every person in our community.

The Rehoboth Council on Aging shall: a. Provide, coordinate and link available resources to help meet the needs of the Town of Rehoboth’s elders. b. Carry out programs and services that range from information on community education, referrals, outreach, transportation, Meals on Wheels, health screenings, intergenerational activities, crafting programs and other programs beneficial to our seniors.

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16

The Reporter March 2026

Rehoboth Ramblings

By Leslie Patterson

The View from the North Pole So, the Blizzard of ’78 is no longer “The Blizzard”. It has been eclipsed by the Blizzard of ’26, delivering even more snow, though thanks to cell phones, social media, and more accurate weather predictions, people were much more prepared for it this time. It’s interesting that both blizzards, 48 years apart, happened on a Monday in February. In the grim winter of 2015, it seemed like it snowed, hard, every Monday.

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This blizzard came with a miracle as far as I’m concerned. We did not lose power at our house during the storm, though we fully expected that to happen. Nor did I see any fallen trees or branches.

We’ve lost power for far less. I have the greatest sympathy for all those who did lose power. That’s a terrible situation to be in, trapped in your house with no heat.

It’s long been a thing to scoff at the accuracy of weather predictions on TV. But comparing the coverage of these two blizzards almost 50 years apart shows the dramatic progress in more accurately predicting the weather, with the advance of meteorological science and technology. Still, the weather continues to be fickle and hard to predict. But in this February’s mega-snowstorm, thanks to advance blizzard warnings and state travel bans in place ahead of time, very few people got stranded in their cars on streets and highways, unlike the ’78 blizzard.

If you compare photos from the two events, you’ll see that the snow-packed streets of ‘78 were littered with cars, trucks and buses stuck in the snow at the height of the blizzard, unlike this February.

My favorite photo from the Blizzard of ‘78 is an overhead shot of I-195 showing the highway cleared right up to the state line in Rhode Island, where the Massachusetts plows stopped and turned around.

I had moved to New England about a year before “The Blizzard” but was still living in Providence then, conveniently about a mile from work. I didn’t have to cope with the traffic disaster and could walk home, though walking in a blizzard wasn’t easy either. There are so many stories about being stranded in the blizzard that it has been become part of New England folklore. Now young people who have grown up listening to (and probably getting tired of hearing about) that ‘78 event will have their own stories to tell their children.

Three feet of snow, as measured at T.F. Green Airport in Warwick on Feb. 23, is a lot of snow. Even two feet of snow, on top of a foot of snow already on the ground, is way too much. Our backyard bird feeder is not that close to the house and snow drifts are blocking the way. We joke about tying a rope between the porch steps and the bird feeder pole, like some farmer out on the prairie trying to get from the house to the barn without get blown away or lost in a white-out.

Those white-outs are something to behold (not that you can even see across the street) and can be very scary. My definition of a blizzard is when you can’t see out your windows because they are encrusted with windblown snow and ice on all four sides of the house.

When will it all melt? Depends on whether you mean the snow in your yard or those dirty mountain-size piles in parking lots that are sometimes referred to as Mt. Slushmore. But not soon enough is the answer. And as we all know, tempers will get more frayed as the very difficult clean-up continues. In 2015 (the most recent winter from Hell) the last of the pond ice disappeared around April 5, if I recall. I wouldn’t be looking for crocus or daffodils the first day of spring. And I don’t want to hear any more about a drought once two or three feet of snow finally melts.

I usually enjoy March even if winter is lingering, because it feels like spring is finally on the way. The increased light in the evening (yay, daylight savings time) is a mood-booster. But this year it’s going to take a while to get that March feeling of uplift. As the poet Percy Shelley once hopefully observed, “If winter comes, can spring be far behind?” It sure feels like the answer is “yes” this year.

March 2026 The Reporter

17

The Seekonk Scene From the Town Clerk’s Office

Nothing says Spring like the Blizzard of 26. Speaking of the blizzard, we want to take this opportunity to give a great big shout out and say THANK YOU to our DPW crew, all the plow drivers who helped, and the Police, Fire, & Communications Departments who worked tirelessly though the storm. Thank you for keeping us safe!

We also want to thank all the residents who helped a neighbor, or shoveled a path, sidewalk, or fire hydrant, and some of you, even a street. We appreciate your help!

Something to look forward to is a little extra daylight. Don’t forget to Spring forward on March 8th by turning the clocks ahead one hour.

“I VOTED” STICKER WINNERS were announced at the February 18, 2026 Select Board meeting. The winning designs will be printed and distributed to voters at the April 6, 2026 Town Election.

Our office received 78 total submissions. The designs were voted on by blind vote only categorized by grade level (K-2, 3-5, 6-8 & 9-12). Thank you to all our judges who participated in this contest. Our judging panelists were from School Dept, Cultural Council, Select Board, Library, Human Services & Town Administration. None of our judging panelists had children participating in the contest.

The winners for the “I Voted” sticker contest are Dhea Nassar (K-2), Mya Goncalves (3-5), Brooke Raez (6-8), Jaylyn Albano (9-12). We sincerely thank all the students who participated. We thoroughly enjoyed receiving your drawings.

Annual Seekonk Town Election - Monday, April 6, 2026

Kristen L’Heureux

Shandra Ferreira

Absentee, Vote By Mail, And Early Voting

Absentee and mail-in ballot requests must be completed yearly. Forms can be found on the Town Clerk’s webpage (under helpful documents) at https://www.seekonkma.gov/280/Town-Clerk or by calling our office (508) 336-2920.

To qualify as an absentee voter: • You will be away from your town on Election Day • You have a religious belief that prevents you from voting at your polling location on Election Day

Seekonk High School (gymnasium), 261 Arcade Avenue from 7:00AM-8:00PM The list of the candidates running for elected positions on April 6th are: Board of Assessors (1 seat/3-year term) Janet Ruth Parker (incumbent) Board of Library Trustees (two seats /3-year terms) Fred A. Slemon, Jr. (incumbent) continued on next page...

Catherine Elizabeth Capello (incumbent) Planning Board (one seat/5-year term) Sandra F. Escaler (incumbent) School Committee (one seat /3-year terms) Andrew J. Tessier Select Board (2 seats/3-year term) “Filtration is our only business not our sideline” Michelle A. Hines (incumbent) 32 years experience - WQA Certified and factory trained personnel Robert Archambault Elizabeth Ann Elmasian Town Clerk (3-year term) Kristen P. L’Heureux (incumbent) Iron, Manganese, pH, Bacteria, Town Moderator (3-year term) Michael Andrew Durkay Rotten egg smell, Nitrates, Arsenic, Water Commission (1 seat/3-year term) Lead and a whole lot more Robert Anthony Stoops

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Important Deadlines:

Candidates to withdraw is March 4, 2025 at 5:00PM. If you are not a registered voter, the last day to register for the town election is March 28, 2026 at 5:00PM To register to vote or check your voter status please go to: www.vote.gov/register/ma Applications for both absentee and vote-by-mail must be received by the Town Clerk by 5:00PM on March 28th. We recommend applying earlier than the deadline to be sure it is received in time.

A Sample Ballot for the town election is expected to be available in early March and will be posted online on the Town Clerk’s page. It will also be posted at Town Hall, Human Services, and the Public Library.

If you have a ballot to drop off on April 6th please put it in the ballot drop box located at the front doors of Town Hall. We will be checking the drop box throughout the day to be sure your vote counts. These ballots cannot be delivered in person to the polling location.

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The Reporter March 2026

• You have a disability that prevents you from voting at your polling location • You are on active military duty • You are a U.S. citizen living outside the U.S. • You are requesting an emergency absentee ballot due to hospitalization • You are currently incarcerated for a reason other than a felony conviction If you do not qualify for as absentee voter, you can complete the vote by mail application.

IMPORTANT: Whether you are voting by mail or in-person, please be sure to completely fill the oval in with a black ball point pen or fine-tip felt marker only. Do not put an “X” or check mark. The voting machines will not read it.

We anticipate in-person early voting will be offered at the Town Hall in the Select Board Meeting Room during the following hours:

Monday March 31 - 7:30AM-4:30PM Tuesday April 1 - 7:30am-4:30PM Wednesday, April 2 8:00AM-5:30PM Thursday, April 3 - 7:30AM-4:30PM

Annual Town Census

Thank you for all those who have returned their 2026 Town Census/Street Listing form. If you have not returned it yet, please do so as soon as possible. Please be sure to update and/or make any changes to the form, sign, and return it to our office by mail, in-person, or by leaving it in the drop box located at the front entrance of Town Hall. Please be sure you SIGN and date the census form before sending it in. We have received many that are not been signed.

IMPORTANT - Under Mass General Law Chapter 51, Sections 4 and 6, residents are required to complete and return the annual street listing (census) form. The law specifies

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that the form must be signed by an adult resident of the household to validate the information provided and to allow the Town Clerk to update records, including voter registration status. Without a signature, the clerk cannot remove or update a person’s information in the municipal database.

Examples:

If you are a registered voter and you requested us to update your name, party, or address on your census form, we are not able to do so if you did not sign the form.

Also, if the form is signed by another member of your family, your census will be counted but we will not be able to make the change to your voter registration. If more than one person in your family would like to make a change to their voter registration, each person is required to sign the form to make these changes.

You cannot register to vote using a census form. If you have a Massachusetts Driver’s License or ID, you can register to vote online by going to www.registertovotema.com. If you don’t, you can still use that website but you will need to print your form, sign it, and mail it to our office. You can also download and print your own voter registration form at https://www.sec.state.ma.us/ divisions/elections/languages/register-bymail-forms.htm You are urged to check the information contained on the form, make any necessary corrections, sign the form and return it to the Clerk’s Office as soon as possible.

Ignoring the first mailing leads to additional costs to taxpayers since the Clerk’s Office is required to print and mail additional notices which will incur added postage expenses.

If you or someone listed in your household has moved, please include a forwarding address. Space has been provided at the bottom of the form to provide this information. This information will allow our office to send a letter to you or any person listed to obtain their approval to remove them from the town’s information database. Without their signature MGL does not allow the clerk to delete a person from our files.

We are often asked why the census is so important. The census 1) maintains accurate and current voter registrations; 2) we can apply for grants to offset costs or fund projects; 3) helps project future school enrollment/registrations; 4) assists public safety in responding to emergency calls; 5) assists the town and state in calculating state and federal aid; 6) serves as proof of residency for in-state college tuition, job applications, adoption, military/veteran/social security benefits, etc.

As per Mass General Law Chapter 51, §4, failure to respond to the census mailing for two consecutive years will result in removal from the active voting list and you will be placed on an “inactive” voting list. If the Town Clerk’s Office does not have proof

March 2026 The Reporter

19

you reside in Seekonk, you may be asked to show proof of residency and sign an Affirmation of Current and Continuous Residence form at an election.

2026 Rabies Clinic

The Rabies clinic is open to Seekonk and non-resident animal owners of dogs, cats and ferrets. Dr. Truesdale from Central Ave Veterinary Hospital will be administering the vaccinations. The Town of Rehoboth will be joining us.

• DATE: Saturday, March 14, 2026 • TIME: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM • PLACE: Seekonk Public Safety Building, Fire Division 500 Taunton Ave, Seekonk, MA • FEE: $15.00 per animal – CASH ONLY

Dog Licensing Procedures

Massachusetts General Law requires dogs to be licensed annually. Proof of current rabies vaccination is required. DOG TAGS EXPIRE MARCH 31st.

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.

All dog licensing is now ONLINE! Payments can still be made in-person 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 we can assist you at our kiosk station.

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

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. 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 #1 & 7 was issued February 9th and due March 11th 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.

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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 was 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 Continued on next page...

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The Reporter March 2026

Town Offices Contact Info

We continuously strive to provide accessible information to our residents as quickly as possible. In order to serve you better and for faster service, please contact the office you need directly. Below is the list of offices with their direct telephone numbers.

• Animal Control - 508-336-6663 • Assessor’s Office - 508-336-2980 (property values, excise tax questions, exemptions, maps) • Building/Inspectional Services -508-336-2990 (state building, electrical, fuel, gas, and plumbing codes, enforces zoning by-laws) • Collector’s Office -508-336-2930 (payments/bills for real estate & personal property tax) • Conservation Office- 508-336-2943 • Public Works (DPW) - 508-336-7407 (trash, blue bags, recycling, snow removal, bulky item pick up) • Finance Office - 508-336-2933 • Fire (non-emergency) - 508-336-8510 • Health Department - 508-336-2950 (dumpster permits, burial permits, Title V) • Human Services - 508-336-8772 • Library - 508-336-8230 • Planning/Zoning - 508-336-2960 • Parks & Recreation - 508-336-2942 • Police (non-emergency) - 508-336-8123 • Town Administrator/Select Board - 508-336-2910 • Town Clerk’s Office - 508-336-2920 (Vital records, dog/kennel licenses, business certificates, elections. Cemetery), • Treasurer’s Office - 508-336-2970 (payroll, retirees’ contact, employment verification) • Veteran Services - 508-336-2940 We hope March is a more gentle and kinder month than February has been to us. I know we are looking forward to Spring in our

VOTE APRIL 6th

office. 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

Peter Hoogerzeil to Step Down as Moderator

By Joe Siegel

Seekonk Town Moderator Peter Hoogerzeil has decided not to run for another term. Hoogerzeil has served in the role since 2016.

Michael Durkay, a member of the Seekonk Public Library Board of Trustees, has announced his candidacy for the position in the April 6 Town Election.

“It has been an honor to serve as your Town Moderator for the past ten years,” Hoogerzeil said Friday. “Seekonk is a wonderful community, and I am proud to have deep roots here: I grew up here, attended school, and now work as an educator in Seekonk.

Like so many others, I returned to raise my family, and my love for our town remains strong.”

“Although I am confident in my ability to succeed if I run, my current commitments this winter prevent me from running the thorough and spirited campaign that the voters of Seekonk deserve.

Therefore, I have decided not to seek re-election as your Moderator.”

“I want to thank everyone for their support and look forward to serving Seekonk in the future.”

Three Candidates for Select Board

By Joe Siegel

Incumbent Select Board member Michelle Hines will face challengers Robert Archambault and Elizabeth Elmasian for the April 6 Town Election. There are two open three year seats on the board. Incumbent Pam Pozzi is not seeking re-election.

Early Voting March 30 – April 2 at the Town Hall

Michelle Hines

for Select Board Re-election 32 year career in Seekonk Seekonk High Graduate going on to a Masters Degree Past and present town involvement:

Michelle Hines

• RTM member, Town Employee, Town Moderator • Select Board, Human Services Council, Senior Center Renovation Committee, DPW Building Committee, • Library Renovation Committee

No Agenda - Only to serve the Town to the best of my ability

YOUR VOTE COUNTS Paid for by Michelle Hines

Re-Elect Michelle Hines for Select Board

Seekonk Residents; April 6th is our local election. This will allow you to choose a resident to fill positions that are vital to the continual operation of our government. The residents who run believe they are the best candidate for the position for the betterment of Seekonk.

Some candidates have been involved in our government for a while, while others have recently, for individual reasons, became involved. I suggest you do a bit of research on the candidates so you can choose the correct one for the position.

I ask every resident to vote for the best chose. If you can’t get to the polls on April 6, the town hall will be available for you to vote the week before, during their work hours. If that isn’t good for your schedule there are absentee ballots. Contact the Town Clerk, by phone 508-336-2920 or on-line through the town website.

Thank you for your interest.I would appreciate your vote: Michelle A. Hines Select Board Candidate for Re-election.

March 2026 The Reporter

Select Board Split on Old Town Hall

By Joe Siegel

The Seekonk Select Board disagreed on what to do with the property known as the Old Town Hall at 624 Taunton Avenue.

The structure, the former site of the Seekonk Police Department headquarters, has sat unoccupied for several years. Voters at last November’s Town Meeting rejected a warrant article authorizing the Board to sell the property. “The building is worth absolutely nothing,” Board chair Michelle Hines said at the February 4 meeting. “It can’t be used for anything. As far as I’m concerned, a bulldozer is the only way to take care of that building.”

“Let’s keep it,” said member Michael Healy. “There are multiple uses for it.”

Board member Pam Pozzi, noting the building’s “historical significance,” suggested using it as a cultural center. Pozzi was dismayed that the condition of the building had been allowed to deteriorate. “We don’t maintain buildings the way we should maintain them,” Pozzi said.

Town Administrator Shawn Cadime said there had been discussions about using the building as a temporary library while the Seekonk Public Library undergoes renovations. A new roof was installed in 2015 and is still usable, Cadime noted.

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.

The CPC noted when the building opened in 1898, it had served as a way of bringing the community together, since at the time, the Town of Seekonk did not have a Town Center. After the Committee held several meetings and did a walk-through of the building, they proposed preserving the building to utilize it in a multifaceted way.

A total of $100,000 has already been spent from the town’s community preservation fund in order to prepare the building for the historic register.

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You are warmly invited to a Meet & Greet in support of the campaigns for Elizabeth A. Elmasian and Robert Archambault.

Bob Archambault

Please join us for an opportunity to connect in person, discuss the issues that matter most to our community, and share your thoughts and ideas. We value open conversation and believe strong leadership begins with listening.

Date: March 21, 2026 Time: 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Location: The Ramada by Wyndham, 213 Taunton Ave., Seekonk MA Light refreshments will be served.

We would truly appreciate your support at the polls and look forward to earning your trust and your vote. Your participation makes a difference, and we hope you will join us for an engaging and meaningful afternoon.

Together, we can build a stronger future for our community.

Paid for by Elizabeth Elmasian and Bob Archambault.

22

The Reporter March 2026

Seekonk Democrats to Elect Delegates to Democratic State Convention

Seekonk, MA — On 14, March 2026 at 10AM Democrats will convene at the Seekonk Public Library to elect 7 delegates and 4 alternates to represent Seekonk at the 2026 Massachusetts State Democratic Convention.

Registered and pre-registered Democrats in Seekonk, who are 16 years old by Saturday, March 13th, may vote and be elected as delegates or alternates during the caucus. Youth (age 16 to 35), individuals with disabilities, people of color, veterans, and members of the LGBTQ+ community not elected as delegates or alternates are encouraged to apply to be add-on delegates at the caucus or by visiting https://www.massdems.org/caucus-and-convention. The 2026 Convention will be in person at the DCU Center in Worcester, MA, on Friday, May 29th, and Saturday, May 30th For those who can not attend in person here is a zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86983218511 Those interested in the Seekonk Democrat Town Committee should contact chair Brian O’Connor 774-330-9426 or boconnortsmk@gmail.com

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Seekonk Firefighters Honored for Heroic Actions

By Joe Siegel

Fire Chief Shaun Whalen presented the Lifesaving Award to members of the department’s D Group for their actions on November 6, 2025. The firefighters, including Lieutenant Kevin English, Firefighter Brandon Ferreri, Firefighter Edward Oliver, Firefighter Thomas Silva, and Firefighter Travis Wright were recognized at the February 4 Select Board meeting.

The incident occurred on Fall River Avenue, which involved a car and a motorcycle on fire and a Level A trauma in the roadway.

Whalen said the actions taken on scene were “swift, active, and effective.”

Lifesaving efforts were undertaken, which saved the life of the motorcycle rider. The individual in the car suffered multiple injuries.

“These men undeniably saved the life of a teenager who could have easily perished,” Whalen said.

Whalen also acknowledged the efforts of Patrolmen William Dillingham and Eric Schoonmaker for the lifesaving assistance they provided to one of the victims on the scene.

Select Board Reject Fire Station Ballot Question

By Joe Siegel

The Seekonk Select Board decided against placing a question about the South End Fire Station on the April 6 election ballot.

Board member Gary Sagar made a motion to place a debt exclusion referendum on the ballot at the February 18 meeting. No one seconded his motion. “The time now is to build it,” Sagar said, noting the architect he spoke with believes “the 8300 square foot building should be able to be built for $9.5 million.”

Fire Chief Shaun Whalen told the board the total cost of the station would be $13.6 million. That figure includes $1.5 million in capital costs and $843,200 for new firefighters and gear.

Two attempts to secure funding for a South End Fire Station were unsuccessful. The project was rejected at the May 2025 town meeting by a vote of 112 – 108. A second attempt to authorize $9.5 million in funding for the project was rejected by voters at the September 15 Town Meeting.

Some members of the public expressed their displeasure with the board’s vote. They cited increased traffic due to the construction of a new shopping plaza in the south end of town.

“I’ve seen fire trucks and ambulances coming down 114A south,” said Doreen Taylor. “You try going through there between the hours of two thirty and five o’clock and it is horrible. I think you should reconsider your vote and put it on the ballot and let the town decide.”

“The response to get down to Route 6 and Fall River Avenue is ridiculous,” said Elizabeth Elmasian, who is a candidate for Select Board. “You’re subjecting this town to liability that I can’t even explain to you. By taking the vote away from residents, where do you think liability is going to fall? There’s going to be a loss of life somewhere.”

“Of course this board thinks of liability,” Chair Michelle Hines responded. “And it doesn’t relieve us of liability because people are going to sue anyway.”

Hines added the fire department always manages to get through traffic jams on Route 6 when lives are in jeopardy.

March 2026 The Reporter

23

Whalen Proposes Increased Fire Department Staffing

By Joe Siegel

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Seekonk Fire Chief Shaun Whalen has recommended assigning 13 firefighters per shift, an increase over the current department staffing model. Whalen appeared at the February 18 Select Board meeting to outline the proposed changes. There are five or six firefighters assigned per shift at Station One, the headquarters at the Public Safety building on Taunton Avenue. There are four or five firefighters assigned per shift at the Banna Station on Pine Street. The Fire Department has 45 firefighters in total, with 10 firefighters per group.

With the increase in staffing, Whalen promised a minimum manning of nine firefighters per shift. The cost of hiring 12 new employees, including four new Captains and backfilling four Lieutenants, as well as capital needs, adds up to a total of $2.9 million.

A new engine is needed to replace the aging E2. That expense is $1 million. A new rescue will cost $525,000.

Whalen noted the budget increase for the department for the next fiscal year would be 11 percent if the new firefighters were approved. That figure would decrease to eight percent for the following fiscal year.

Town Administrator Shawn Cadime predicted a budget deficit of $3.6 million for the next fiscal year if the fire department added staffing. The deficit would increase to $5.5 million the following fiscal year.

“We’re going to have difficult conversations with other departments,” Cadime said. “These are big numbers, so they’re going to come from either public safety or the schools. That’s the reality of the situation. I don’t think anybody is saying the firefighters don’t deserve it. We just need to figure out what that number is. Public safety is getting more and more expensive. Our revenues are just

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The Reporter March 2026

not keeping up. There’s not a whole lot of additional revenues that we can find.”

Cadime insisted he’s always been understanding of the staffing needs of the fire department. “(Whalen) has never once come to me saying he needed additional funds and not received it. I can go down the laundry list of what I’ve given to the fire department. If (people) are going to try to suggest that I’m not supportive of the fire department and that I don’t give the fire department the resources that they need, that’s just inaccurate and not a good picture of what’s really taking place.”

Board member Michael Healy, who was a previous Fire Chief, said it was up to the board to figure out a way to fulfill Whalen’s staffing plan. “When politics gets involved in public safety, people get hurt,” Healy explained. “People die because we make bad decisions up here because we don’t know your department, we don’t know what it takes to run it. The number one priority is to protect the firefighters of this community. They’ve been (operating) at an unsafe level for way too long.”

Healy told Whalen the staffing increases wouldn’t happen immediately. “Those are big numbers to overcome. This problem you inherited. This has been an ongoing problem with that fire department. You’re not going to fix it overnight. You’ve got my full support.

Thank you for your plan.”

Chair Michelle Hines dismissed any comparisons to other town’s fire departments. “I support Seekonk. I care about Seekonk. We are not Norton. We are not North Attleboro or Mansfield. Together, we’ll improve every department in this town,” Hines said.

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*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: Earth Month Celebration (Litter Patrol, Rain Barrels & More!)

Our Earth Month Celebration is set for Sat April 11th from 8am-4pm at DPW. Litter Patrol will be the entire day-signup at www.Seekonkma.gov/388/Recycling-Committee stop by anytime for supplies, then return will collected trash for a treat & prizes. From 12-4pm, rain barrels (pre order required), backyard compost bins, and kitchen scrap buckets will be distributed, and you can also sign up or renew your Adopt-a-Drain agreement for free blue bags. See website for full details on the event, pre-order, and the Adopt-a-Drain program.

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 & propane tanks & empty 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 7am-3pm (Fri & Sat varies seasonally-check website or call) for drop off of yard waste (leaves, grass, twigs). Bulky Waste Pass Days start back up Mar 14, Apr 11, May 9. Passes are $30 and can be purchased at the DPW offices.

Food Waste Compost Collection at TARF: Black Earth Compost collection where residents can bring household food waste.

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

Seekonk DPW Offices (871 Taunton Ave) has textile collection bins & a Terracycle collection shed in the parking lot, and small rechargeable batteries/cell phone collection bin and eye glasses collection inside the lobby. String lights & extension cords are also accepted anytime. Bulky Waste Pickup stickers available for the 2nd & 4th Weds of each month for most items, 3rd Tues for metal/ electronics, & 3rd Weds for mattresses/boxsprings. There is also a mail in form available online if you’re unable to come into the office during office hours.

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

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

Recycling Tip of The Month: Have you heard that paper cups are now officially accepted in your curbside recycling?! That’s rightyou can now recycle those paper coffee cups, water cups, etc!

Please place plastic covers in the trash.

*Please remember to recycle right, and….

Reduce-Reuse-Recycle (in THAT order!)*

March 2026 The Reporter

LITTER PATROL 8AM-4PM Town-Wide Clean Up The Seekonk Litter Patrol has been cleaning up our roads year after year, and this year we hope to make it bigger and better than ever!

Sign up by 4/3 at www.seekonk-ma.gov/388/RecyclingCommittee then stop by to pick up Supplies (Bags, Gloves, Pickers, T-shirts)

Return in the afternoon with your collected trash bags for a sweet treat & raffle prizes!

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EARTH MONTH 2026 SATURDAY APRIL 11th 8am-Noon and 12-4pm Seekonk DPW 871 Taunton Ave Seekonk MA 02771 WHY SUSTAINABILITY? Sustainability maintains the health and biocapacity of the environment.

Sustainability supports the well-being of individuals and communities.

Sustainability promotes a better economy where there is little waste and pollution, fewer emissions, more jobs, and a better quality of life.

CONTACT PHONE: 508-336-7407 WEBSITE: www.seekonk-ma.gov/245/TrashRecycling-Information www.Facebook.com/SustainableSeekonk EMAIL: Czadykovich@seekonk-ma.gov

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Rain Barrels from The Great American Rain Barrel Company PRE ORDER by 3/23 using coupon code ‘SEE26’ for $40 off first barrel: www.greatamericanrainbarrel.com/community (then select Seekonk from the town list) Earth Machine Compost Bins These backyard compost bins can help you turn waste to soil right in your own backyard. We will have a limited number of bins for FREE, with proof of residency.

Kitchen Compost Bins / Scrap Buckets These bins are for use in your kitchen to collect food scraps on a daily basis for deposit into your backyard composter, or drop off at the collection bins at TARF. We will have a limited number of bins for FREE, with proof of residency.

Adopt-A-Drain Signup/Renewal Sign up or renew your agreement to help keep our drains clean for the next year, and be rewarded with a free roll of blue bags.

THANK YOU! Event will be rain or shine! You may clean-up another time if weather doesn’t cooperate-but supplies will still be handed out during this time.

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The Reporter March 2026

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School Superintendent Discusses Budget with Select Board

By Joe Siegel

Seekonk School Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell warned of possible budget reductions at Wednesday’s joint meeting with the Select Board. The school district is seeking a 4.6 percent increase in the FY’27 budget. Kidwell said preliminary figures from the Governor’s office show an increase in education funding for Seekonk.

The Chapter 70 allocation is $150,000 higher than the current fiscal year. Charter tuition reimbursements also “increased significantly.” Fixed costs, such as health insurance, electricity, transportation, and fuel, continue to increase “at a rate above two and a half percent.”

“Level services, non-salary costs, are the primary driver of these increases,” Kidwell continued. “The current budget projection, considering level services and mandatory updates to maintain learning, is a 4.61 percent increase, so about $1.5 million.”

The school department has fewer teachers, administrative assistants, building administrators, counseling staff, and custodians than this time last year. Kidwell also warned of the possible loss of federal entitlement grants, which provide $849,652 to the district.

Kidwell outlined a list of possible, but not recommended, reductions if the town does not fund the schools as requested at the Spring Town Meeting. The public hearing on the budget will be held on March 16. “We don’t want to discuss these things,” Kidwell said.

“But we are now at the point of talking about things like elimination or reduction of full day kindergarten, elimination or reduction of electives such as music, art, and technology, elimination or reduction of activities like athletics, music, clubs and activities, elimination or reduction of transportation for students in grades 7 through 12 which is not required by law.”

Kidwell suggested fees could be charged for transportation, athletics, parking or driving, and preschool tuition. However, she explained raising those fees wouldn’t be enough to close the deficit in the budget.

“Athletic fees could make a substantial difference, but that is something this town has never wanted to do,” Kidwell noted. “We don’t want to go in this direction but we are at the bottom of the barrel and beginning to look at things like this if we have to make significant cuts going into this year.”

Meanwhile, Seekonk’s spending per pupil has not been keeping pace with larger spending increases in surrounding school districts such as Somerset-Berkeley, Swansea, and Dighton-Rehoboth.

“They’re all increasing at a faster rate than we are for school spending,” Kidwell said. “I’m sharing that with you as evidence of our responsibility, our stewardship, and our buying into fiscal conservatism as a town in general. But that doesn’t mean that we don’t need to, to some degree, increase spending as inflation and costs increase over time.”

Kyle Juckett Speaks about School Committee

By Joe Siegel

Seekonk School Committee member Kyle Juckett does not plan to seek re-election in April when his three-year term expires.

Juckett explained his decision Sunday in a Facebook post. “It is not for the light of heart, and if done right, will require a decent chunk of time to properly serve the great town of Seekonk and its constituents,” Juckett wrote.

“My only hope is that there remains to be an imbalance of viewpoints on the committee, and that it does not become an echo chamber for one side or the other. It is imperative that the viewpoints of the whole of Seekonk are represented, and through that common sense and good judgement can be found.”

March 2026 The Reporter “I never tried to hide my more conservative viewpoints, and did my best to be as open and transparent as to how I felt about practically any subject.”

“Life sometimes catches up with us all, and at the moment I’ve chosen what responsibilities I can continue to give beyond 100 percent,” Juckett added. “I don’t feel like I can do that with the School Committee, thus I feel it is best served to all that I step aside, until a time arises where I can return.”

The Town Election will be held on April 6.

Seekonk High School Names New Football Coach

By Joe Siegel

Brendan Costa has been named as the new Head Football Coach at Seekonk High School. Costa, who previously served as offensive coordinator, quarterback coach and defensive back coach, took over the new role as head coach on February 10. “Brendan has demonstrated a strong commitment to our student-athletes and to the values that define Seekonk Public Schools,” said Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell. “He understands the importance of building a program that emphasizes accountability, teamwork and character, and we are confident he will provide outstanding leadership for our football program.”

“Throughout the selection process, it was clear that Brendan brings not only a deep knowledge of coaching football, but also a thoughtful approach to mentoring young people,” Kidwell added.

“We look forward to seeing him continue to strengthen the Seekonk High School culture that supports student growth both on and off the field.”

Costa first joined Seekonk High School’s coaching staff in 2023 as offensive coordinator, quarterback coach and defensive backs coach. During his time on the coaching staff, the team showed consistent offensive growth, averaging 27 points per game in 2024 and setting a new program mark for points scored in the annual Thanksgiving rivalry game that season.

Before joining the staff at the high school, Costa served on the football coaching staff at Williams College, doing offensive quality control and serving as a running backs and tight ends coach. His collegiate coaching experience followed a successful playing career at Bates College, where he served as a team captain and earned conference recognition.

Photo courtesy of Kaiden Medas.

Good News for Seekonk Schools

By Joe Siegel

The Seekonk Public Schools may be receiving more state aid this year, according to Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell.

“The preliminary Governor’s local aid proposal for Chapter 70 is about $100-150,000 higher than what we received last year,” Kidwell said at the February 2 school committee meeting.

“Additionally, unrestricted government aid and exemptions related to aid for elderly groups have also gone up, so overall, aid to the Town of Seekonk in the preliminary estimate is almost $250,000 higher than what it was this time last year. That’s a really good sign. It’s not the end of the process. We have to go through the House budget, the Senate budget, the conference committee.

For me, this number is a cause for optimism.”

Kidwell said the school department would be meeting to discuss the FY’27 budget with both the Select Board and the Finance Committee. Kidwell explained the final FY’26 Chapter 70 award to the town was $8,276,778. “The current preliminary amount in the FY27 Governor’s Local Aid Proposal is $8,428,128. The

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town determines how Chapter 70 funds are expended within the realm of education budgeting, so some may go to TriCounty or other educational expenses.”

In addition, the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) will be accepting a proposal for Seekonk High School.

The 2026 Core program application process is now open with the MSBA. “In accepting us with the opportunity to explore high school grades in a joint campus that will have undergone all the appropriate funding and vetting so we will doing that over the coming months,” Kidwell noted. “We will be bringing that to you and to the Select Board for a vote.”

“We do not presently have any plans to reconfigure Seekonk High to include an additional grade,” Kidwell said on Wednesday.

“We look forward to starting our work with the MSBA and exploring options to meet our community’s space needs.”

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The Reporter March 2026

COMMUNITY SUPPORTING DOORWAYS The Hamilton Diner Supports Doorways in Fighting Hunger

Cindy Mullen of Doorways is presented with food donations from Ari Chikeles, proprietor of The Hamilton Diner.

The Hamilton Diner is famous for their efforts to help those in need. They conducted a food drive with their patrons just before the holidays to assist Doorways in fighting food insecurity in our town. We appreciate everyone who contributed to this food drive, and to the many other food drives throughout our community this past holiday season – your generosity is a testament to the spirit of goodwill that makes Seekonk a community to be proud of.

Seekonk High School Fighting Hunger in Our Town

Track team members with Coach Horton

Members of the Seekonk High School Track team pose with Coach Linda Horton and boxes of canned goods they collected in their annual drive. Several hundred cans of food were delivered to Doorways.

Linda Horton is a beloved veteran teacher at Seekonk High and faculty advisor to the Student Council. During their annual Spirit Week, the Student Council sponsored a “powder puff” tournament, a fundraiser for Doorways to benefit our neighbors in need. Above, Linda Horton presents a check for $1,400.00 to Gerry McCabe of Doorways. Thank you, Seekonk High!

Cindy Mullen of Doorways with Ari Chikeles, of The Hamilton Diner.

Pods Mermaids Make a Splash in Fight Against Hunger

Members of the Pods “Mermaids” Water Aerobics group in East Providence held a food drive at their annual Christmas luncheon to help those less fortunate. The donations filled an SUV to bursting and were delivered to the Doorways Food Pantry in time for Christmas. “Christmas is a time for giving”, said lead aerobics instructor Sandy Medeiros. “We hope to make this an annual event.” The Doorways community thanks the Mermaids for their benevolent charity.

Linda Horton with Gerry McCabe of Doorways

Pods “Mermaids” Water Aerobics group

March 2026 The Reporter

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

Hearing Clinic

Monday, March 9th 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.

St. Patty’s Day Party

Wed, March 11, 2026 at 11:30am

Singer-guitarist Bill Reidy offers an entertaining one-man show that includes traditional and contemporary Irish folk tunes, rebel songs, ballads, pub songs, and Celtic songs. Bill covers, just to name a few, the songs of The Clancy Brothers, The Dublin City Ramblers, The Irish Rovers and many more. Lunch will be Corned Beef and Cabbage meal. The fee for residents is $10.00 and non-residents is $13.00 Preregistration is required

Treasures of the RISD Museum - Snapshots

Monday, March 16, 2026 at 2:00pm

Treasures of the Rhode Island School of Design Museum Docents presents Snapshots. An armchair tour led by RISD Museum Docents will offer a visual presentation of some of the highlights of the museum’s collection. The program last for approximately 40 minutes and followed by a time for questions and discussion. Whether you are an art connoisseur for years or if you just like to look at works of art, this program is for you.

Preregistration is required.

Book Club

Tues, March 17, 2026 at 10:00am

For March come join the discussion of, “Beneath A Scarlet Sky” by Mark Sullivan. The group will be led with discussion questions, but feel free to bring your own.

Preregistration is required.

Music Through the Decades Wed, March 18, 2026 at 1:00pm

Step into a time machine through the greatest hits of the past! Our Music Through the Decade Party is your chance to relive iconic sounds, unforgettable styles, and the energy that defined each era of music! Carine Paul will be performing songs from the pop culture 60’s, the groovy 70’s and disco beats to 80’s. Preregistration is required.

Seekonk Veterans’ Coffee Hour

Monday, March 23 2026 at 2:00pm

Come and join Seekonk’s Veterans Services Officer, James LaFlame, for 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. If anyone is interested in coming to this activity, please call us to register. The following Seekonk Veterans’ Coffee hour will be on April 6, 2026 at 2:00pm.

Healthy Aging Lunch & Learn

Wed, March 25, 2026 at 11:30am

Bristol Aging and Wellness Registered Dietitian, Dawn DiMarco will be discussing “Nutrition Talk” for healthy aging. If you are looking for nutrition advice, always ask a Registered Dietitian. Lunch will be beef and broccoli, white rice, dinner roll and dessert.

Preregistration is required.

Discover the Power of Nutrition

Monday, March 30, 2026 at 2:00pm

March is National Nutrition Month according to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Join us for a presentation hosted by Lisa Valente, RN, CDOE and presented by Stephanie DeLaBruere, RD with the UMass Extension Nutrition Education Program. Discover the power of nutrition, and learn how food and beverage choices can help power your day! Learn how you can begin building healthy habits to help you feel great now and in the future. Preregistration is required.

Parks & Recreation

March will bring us the opportunity for painting a butterfly house. Adults are encouraged to join us on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.

The event will run from 1:30pm—2:30pm and will be held at the Human Services building located at 540 Arcade Avenue, Seekonk, MA 02771. The cost will be $3.00 for residents and $5.00 for non-residents. PreRegistration is required. You can register at seekonkma.myrec.com or call Erica at 508-336-8772. Help us get ready for spring!

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.

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 Friday 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th.

Contact Seekonk Human Services to register. The 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.

Blood Pressure & Glucose Clinic

Wed, March 18, 2026 - 9:00-11:00am

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

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The Reporter March 2026

Let’s Learn Together!

Tuesday, March 24, 2026 at 2:30pm Learn from Experience: Discover GetSetUp

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.

Daylight Saving Time Sunday, March 8, 2026

Don’t forget to spring forward for Daylight Saving Time. Remember to set your clocks ahead one hour Saturday night before bed or Sunday morning when you wake up. You may lose an hour of sleep but gain an hour of daylight!

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. So, why not come to our Senior Center to start this exciting journey and dive into this centuries-old game of skill and strategy. Preregistration is required.

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

Tuesdays, Weds & Thursdays

Bristol Elder Services provides nutritional meals for lunch on Tuesdays, Weds 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 March menu is available at our office and on our Facebook page.

Fuel Assistance

If you had fuel assistance last year, be on the look-out for your application. File the application as soon as you get it. If you have never had fuel assistance and would like to apply or if you need help filing your application, please call Seekonk Human Services at 508-336-8772 to make an appointment with the Outreach Department. Fuel assistance applications accepted November 1, 2025 until April 30, 2026.

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

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

Spring Gathering

Wed, April 9, 2026 at 11:30am

Join us for our Spring Gathering with entertainment by Steve Burke. Steve Burke, 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 chicken salad sliders, pasta salad, chips and dessert. The cost will be $10 for residents and $13 for non-residents. Preregistration is required and opens March 16.

Hearing Clinic by At Home Hearing

Monday, April 13, 2026 at 1:00pm

Lauren Warburton from At Home Hearing Healthcare will be here for a Hearing Clinic.

At Home Hearing Healthcare is a mobile Hearing Instrument Specialist team with over 38 years of experience. They specialize in detecting and resolving issues with hearing loss. If their Board-Certified Hearing Instrument specialist detect a hearing loss, the individual will be advised regarding the next steps for pursuing proper treatment. For individuals who do not have hearing loss, this screening establishes a valuable baseline to measure any future issues. They offer services in the comfort and security of your own home. They do accept MassHealth. Preregistration is required and opens March 16.

Larry Houser Trivia

Wed, April 15, 2026 at 1:00pm

Come join Larry Houser for Team Trivia!

Not-so-hard questions just about everything—movies, music, animals, old expressions, advertising from the 1960s and 70s.

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March 2026 The Reporter

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Come as a team of 2, 3 or 4 or come alone and we’ll find a team for you! Gift card prizes to all players on the winning team! Preregistration is required and opens March 16.

Book Club

Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at 10:00am

For March come join the discussion of, The Island of Sea Women

by Lisa See. A mesmerizing new historical novel, about female friendship and devastating family secrets on a small Korean island.

The group will be led with discussion questions, but feel free to bring your own. Preregistration is required and opens March 16th.

Kevin Richman Music Bingo Wed, April 22, 2026 at 1:00pm

Do you love music? Do you love BINGO? Then you will love Music BINGO! All the songs you grew up listening to in a BINGO format. It’s the best of both worlds. Great music, great friends and great prizes you won’t want to miss. Preregistration is required and opens March 16.

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Ticked Off:

Monday, April 27, 2026 at 2:00pm Why These Tiny Pests Are a Huge Problem

Ticks are most active in warmer months and can transmit a variety of diseases, including Lyme Disease. From working in your yard to camping in the woods, it helps to know which ticks live in your area and what diseases they can spread. Please join Lisa Valente, Regional Public Health Nurse along with Hannah Ragozzino, MPH, Regional Epidemiologist and Elizabeth Paiva, MPH, Public Health Specialist from the Southcoast Public Health Coalition for a presentation on ticks. Learn about the types of ticks we have locally, where to find them, and how to protect yourself, your pets, and your family. Preregistration is required and opens March 16.

Matt York Classic Country Music

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Wed, April 29, 2026 at 1:00pm

Matt York returns to Seekonk with his classic country musical presentation. Matt will performs songs and talk about the careers of some of the great country and honkytonk singers of the past. This show highlights those artists, like Patsy Cline, Hank Williams Sr., Loretta Lynne and George Jones, who not only made beautiful music, but also were larger than life figures. Matt has traveled extensively through the years performing his own songs and also doing the Highwaymen: Songs & Stories. This program is funded by the Seekonk Cultural Council. Preregistration is required. continued on next page...

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The Reporter March 2026

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Charles Riverboat & Encore Casino Wed, June 17, 2026

ity)

Fridays

Telephone Reassurance Program

Seekonk Human Services Presents

$131 Per Person (including driver gratu-

Your Motorcoach Will 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 11am 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) provide 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

Our office will make a telephone call to an individual’s home at approximately the same time each day Monday through Friday (during our operating business hours only).

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

Medical Loan Closet

Our FREE Medical Loan Closet is available for Seekonk residents. Our inventory is dependent on donated items received, but may be limited based on need and space.

For more information, please call 508-3368772 *30 Day Rental

Exercise Classes Mondays

Movement & Meditation 10am Strength & Cardio 1pm

Tuesdays

Drums Alive 9am

Wednesdays

Stability and Balance 8:30am Drums Alive 9:30am

Thursdays

Mat Exercise 9am Movement & Meditation 10am

Licensed in MA & RI

Dance Cardio 9:15am Tai Chi 10:30am

*All activities are subject to pre-registration

Games

• 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 The center is open Monday -Thursday 8:15am - 4pm and Friday 8:15am - 12pm. Come and enjoy the activities and companionship at your center. Join our email list! Things are changing quickly these days and we want to be able to get the word out to you quickly. Please give us a call and give us your email address. We want to share fun activities, links to Zoom and virtual programs. * NOTE: *Seekonk Human Services is primarily an informational and referral agency. We try to help you directly or by introducing you to a network of federal, state, or local support services. Seekonk Human Services offers legal, financial, recreational, medical screenings, and other activities/services by volunteers or nominally paid practitioners.

Participation in these services/activities is with the understanding that Seekonk Human Services, Town of Seekonk, or its employees do not assume any legal or other responsibility for advice of services rendered by such volunteers or nominal cost practitioners.

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March 2026 The Reporter

Events & Activities Arts in the Village Presents Trio Gaia Sunday, March 15, 2026 2:30 PM

Goff Hall, 124 Bay state Rd, Rehoboth MA Tel 508-431-6879 Handicapped parking, Complimentary refreshments Tickets at the door Adults $30, Children/Students $10

Trio Gaia, New England Conservatory’s most recent graduate piano trio in residence, formed in 2018 and is dedicated to offering audiences dynamic, personally relevant experiences inside and outside the concert hall. The trio has won 1st prize at the 2022 WDAV Young Chamber Musicians Competition, as well as prizes in the 2022 Premio Trio di Trieste International Music Competition, 2021 Chamber Music Yellow Springs Competition, and the 2019 Plowman National Chamber Music Competition. Dedicated to sharing classical music in the community, Trio Gaia is sought-after for its educational programming for students, seniors, and everyone in between. For information, call 508-431-6879; or go to the website at https://rehoboth antiquarian.org.

New Production from Metamorphosis: The TEN31 Dance Company

Metamorphosis: The TEN31 Dance Company presents “BANDSTAND”- An Immersive Dance and Theater Experience Pawtucket, RI- Metamorphosis: The TEN31 Dance Company (MDCTV) is thrilled to announce its latest production, BANDSTAND, an immersive dance and theater experience. Performances will take place from March 13th through March 15th at The TEN31 Productions Studio Theater in Pawtucket.

Step back in time as MDCTV presents a vibrant exploration of movement and nostalgia.

BANDSTAND invites audiences into an atmospheric world where the energy of live performance meets the intimacy of a studio setting. This immersive experience promises to transport guests through a dynamic fusion of storytelling and choreography.

Performance Schedule: • Thursday, March 13th: 7:00 PM • Friday, March 14th: 7:00 PM • Saturday, March 15th: 2:00 PM Location: The TEN31 Productions Studio Theater 249 Roosevelt Ave, Pawtucket, RI 02860 Ticket Information: Tickets are available for purchase now. Due to the immersive nature of the show, capacity is limited, and advance purchase is highly recommended.

• Online: $35 • At the Door: $40 Tickets are available at the link below, or by searching “BANDSTAND” on Humantix.

Ticket link: https://humanitix. com/us/search/us--rhode-island/ bandstand?dates=all

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The Reporter March 2026

March 2026 The Reporter

Genealogy Presentation

Bristol Chapter of Massachusetts Society of Genealogists, Inc. March 21st at Noon

The Bristol Chapter of the Massachusetts Society of Genealogists, Inc. will hold its monthly business meeting on Saturday, March 21st followed by a presentation beginning at Noon. This presentation is free and Open to the Public.

Thomas MacEntee will present virtually on “Creating an Ancestor Sketch”.

Face it: most genealogists never get around to publishing that family history book based on their genealogy research. How about a different approach: producing short 3-5 page “sketches” about an ancestor? You’ll learn how to include a cover, photos, facts, family stories, source citations and more! And guess what, once you get a few of these ancestor sketches done, you can compile them together for one big book!

Thomas MacEntee is a professional genealogist specializing in the use of technology and social media to improve genealogical research and as a means of interacting with others in the family history community.

“This program has applied for support from the Somerset Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.”

Inline image Please join us at Noon in-person at the Somerset Public Library, 1464 County St., Somerset, MA 02726 or virtually via ZOOM. Those who wish to attend virtually need to pre-register at https:// tinyurl.com/BristolMarch2026 after which you will receive an email confirmation with instructions for logging into this session. Do not share what you receive. It is unique to you. Closed Captioning is available for this presentation.

For more information contact bristol@msoginc.org.

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

Seekonk Knights of Columbus Charity Event Yard Sale Saturday, May 16

Sellers Wanted for Large Yard Sale

Be part of the largest and longest-running yard sale in the Seekonk area.

For over 40 years, the Seekonk Knights of Columbus has been sponsoring this annual charity event.

Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 8 am to 12 noon at 532 Arcade Avenue, Seekonk, MA 02771.

Rain date: Sunday, May 17, 2026, 8 am to 12 noon.

We have 30 outdoor sites available at $25 each. Sites are 15 ft x 30 ft that will accommodate a vehicle and pop-up canopy.

Don’t hesitate. Last year was a sellout. To reserve your site, call 508.336.7952. Visit Facebook for more details.

www.

.com

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The Reporter March 2026

Victoria Wyeth Comes to Seekonk: Art, the Land, and Shared Story

AMERICANA ANTIQUE AUCTION 380 Winthrop Street, Rte. 44, Rehoboth, MA

SUPERB MARCH ESTATES AUCTION

Gold Jewelry, Sterling Silver, Large Number of Gold & Silver Coins from Bank Vaults. Chinese and Japanese carvings including netsukes, oil paintings, and more!

Sunday, March 22, 2026 ~11am

LIVE ANTIQUE AUCTION IN REHOBOTH & ONLINE BIDDING Preview Thurs - Sat 10am-4pm Sun 9-11am 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

This April, Osamequin Farm will welcome Victoria Browning Wyeth to Seekonk for a packed weekend of art, storytelling, and community gathering on the land.

Victoria Wyeth — speaker, educator, and the only grandchild of American painter Andrew Wyeth — has become known for the way she brings her grandfather’s work to life through personal stories and lived experience. Her presentations explore the Wyeth legacy through memory, landscape, and the small, repeated moments that shaped one Victoria Wyeth of America’s most iconic painters.

Through her voice, audiences are invited to consider how creativity takes root in the places we return to again and again.

The setting is part of the story. Osamequin Farm is a conserved working farm in Seekonk where farmers cultivate the land and neighbors gather throughout the year for learning and seasonal events.

The Wyeth family’s legacy is rooted in farms and rural landscapes.

Hosting Victoria here makes that connection visible, with art and the land in conversation.

The weekend begins Friday with a special session for high school artists, offering students the opportunity to engage directly with Victoria in an intimate setting. Saturday evening features a public presentation at the farm, preceded by a small-group reception.

On Sunday morning, families are invited for a welcoming program that includes a youth art exhibition inspired by the Wyeth legacy, highlighting student work created in response to themes of place, observation, and memory.

The weekend marks the launch of Osamequin Presents, a new curated series that brings artists, historians, scientists, and cultural thinkers to the farm for thoughtful dialogue grounded in land and place.

The weekend offers a chance to gather at the farm, hear Victoria’s stories firsthand, and experience the connection between art and land in a setting where that relationship is still alive.

This program is supported in part by a grant from the Seekonk Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency. Tickets and details are available at OsamequinFarm. org/Wyeth.

The barn at Osamequin

March 2026 The Reporter

Church News & Events 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.

OPEN MIC NIGHT

Come join us on Friday March 13 from 7:00PM - 9:00 PM COME SHOWCASE your MUSICAL, COMEDIC, or other SPECIAL TALENT. Share your talent in a friendly, fun-loving atmosphere. Spread the word & join us. All are Welcome Refreshments will be available but feel free to bring your dinner to enjoy while you listen. COME to Entertain or be Entertained. Check out our Facebook page at the end of February for an opportunity to sign up

Italian Night Dinner Saturday Mar 21, 2026

Please join us on Sat Mar 21st from 5 – 7 PM for our annual Italian Night Dinner. Our buffet will serve two main courses: ‘Spaghetti & Meatballs’ and ‘Ziti with Broccoli and Chicken’ along with salad and Italian bread.

Vegetarian Options will be Available. Cake and Ice Cream Sundaes for dessert.

Tickets will be on sale after Church at Coffee Hour or call the Church Office at (508-336-9355) to reserve your tickets.

Reservations are suggested but walk-ins are welcome, eat in or take out.

Ticket prices are $18 for adults and $10 for children ages 5 to 12. Children under age 5 are free.

HOLY WEEK SERVICES

PALM SUNDAY, MARCH 29TH at 9:30 AM will include special music and palms.

Cherub Choir sings at beginning. Market Place in hall follows Worship Services.

MAUNDY THURSDAY, April 2nd at 6:30 PM will begin with a light meal around the tables in candlelit Woodworth Hall...followed by the events of the Last Supper and the Garden of Gethsemane re-enacted by the disciples and Jesus. It is a very moving, memorable evening!

GOOD FRIDAY, April 3rd at 7:30 PM (please note time difference between Thursday and Friday) service will be held in the Church Sanctuary with the procession of the Cross and the crucified Christ followed by the Tenebrae Service of Darkness. continued on next page...

David J. Ledoux

HARDWOOD FLOORS Seekonk, MA

DUSTLESS HARDWOOD REFINISHING

Installation - Sanding - Refinishing - Prefinished

***Quality Craftsmanship*** "Proudly serving the community for over 20 years" Owner/Operator Office: 508-399-6211 Fully Insured Cell: 508-272-7729

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The Reporter March 2026

EASTER CELEBRATION SERVICES: April 5 th at 9:30AM Trumpet, Organ and Timpani play ten minutes before the services begin. Sacred Dance processional and Children’s Choir sings. All children begin in church and pre-school through 5th graders are invited to move to the Hall for special event.

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.

Memorial Baptist Church News

Come share the journey with us this Lent and Holy Week as we prepare our hearts for Easter. This sacred season invites us to reflect, renew, and rejoice in the hope of the Resurrection.

You are warmly invited to join us for our meaningful Sunday services at 10 AM each week.

Holy Week Schedule

Palm Sunday: March 29, 2026 – 10 AM Maundy Thursday: April 2, 2026 – 7 PM Good Friday: April 3, 2026 – 7 PM Easter Sunday: April 5, 2026 – 10 AM

340 Central Ave. Seekonk, MA 02771 (508)761-5142 www.mbcofseekonk.com

Laurie P. Mullen Attorney at Law

Divorce Mediation Divorce & Family Law Uncontested Divorce Contested Divorce Child Custody Paternity Child Support Adoption

Estate Planning Wills Health Care Proxy Power Of Attorney

239 Winthrop Street, Rehoboth

(508) 252-2300 www.lauriemullen.com

Rehoboth Congregational Church

ALL ARE WELCOME! We worship every Sunday at 10AM. Join us for a wonderful blend of traditional worship with a modern twist. We sing, we laugh, and we enjoy the fellowship of one another’s company while strengthening our faith and serving others.

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

Special Lent & Easter Services

• Palm Sunday: Sunday March 29 at 10AM • Maundy Thursday: Thursday April 2 at 7PM • Easter Sunrise Service: Sunday April 5 at 6:22AM at the Anawan Club -13 Gorham St, Rehoboth, MA 02769 • Easter Sunday Worship: Sunday April 5 at 10AM at Rehoboth Congregational Church - 139 Bay State Rd. Rehoboth

Questions About Worship, Church School Or Other Events?

Visit us online at www.rehobothcongregational.org OR contact our Administrative Director at office@rehobothcongregational.org or 508-252-4545 (Tuesday-Thursday 9AM-1PM).

139 Bay State Rd. Rehoboth

Rehoboth Baptist Church

Join us at Rehoboth Baptist Church for our Easter Weekend Services.

Good Friday, April 3rd Check our church website for details about the time and location of this service.

Easter Sunday, April 5th, “Sunrise” service & Breakfast starting at 7:30 AM. Weather permitting we will begin the morning outside (the service will be held inside if needed). We will read the resurrection story and sing a few resurrection hymns. The service will be followed by breakfast.

If you have never heard the resurrection story or if you would like to hear it again, come join us for this simple service.

Sunday School is at 9:00 AM. Following breakfast in our Sunday School class for the whole family, we will have an opportunity to ask questions about the death, resurrection, ascension, and return of Jesus Christ.

Our regular Sunday Worship Service is at 10:30 AM. Pastor Kitchen will be preaching about the significance of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. If you are curious as to why the resurrection is such a big deal, this would be a good week to join us for our morning worship service.

REHOBOTH BAPTIST CHURCH 132 Moulton Street (Route 118) Rehoboth, MA 02769

REGULAR SUNDAY SERVICES • Sunday School - 9:00am • The Lord’s Service - 10:30am • Prayer Meeting - 6:00pm

WEDNESDAYS

Bible Study - 7:00pm

508-252-6437 • www.RehobothBaptistChurch.org Rehoboth Baptist Church is located on Route 118, two miles south of the Route 44 intersection. Visit our website for current information about our services or to contact the pastor or an elder.

March 2026 The Reporter

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Rehoboth Baptist Church is located on Route 118, two miles south of the Route 44 intersection. Visit our website for current information about our services or to contact the pastor or an elder. www.RehobothBaptistChurch.org.

88 TAUNTON AVENUE, EAST PROVIDENCE, RI

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.

Good Friday Service

On Good Friday, we remember that the gift of a full and flourishing life with Jesus began with His life poured out for us. Join us on Good Friday, April 3, at 7 pm for a meaningful service with simple worship, Scripture, and reflection on the crucifixion of Jesus as we head into Easter weekend.

Starting Easter Sunday, April 5th, at 10 am.

Thoughts are powerful. They change our perspective, impact our decisions, and influence our habits. What do we do when we become trapped by our thoughts? Learn how to take your thoughts captive and live the life you want in our brand new series “Winning the War in Your Mind.”

Newman Congregational Church 85th May Breakfast Saturday, May 2nd at 10am

Newman Congregational Church, UCC extends an invitation to one and all to join us on Saturday, May 2nd, for our 85th May Breakfast. The breakfast will be held from 8 am until 10 am in the church’s hall at 100 Newman Avenue in Rumford.

The breakfast buffet will consist of scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes, baked beans, homemade muffins, juice, coffee & tea and more! Gluten-free options will be available.

Handmade May Baskets, filled with cookies or flowers will be on sale.

Tickets will be sold at the door.

• Adults - $15 • Children under age 8 - $5 • Family of 5 (2 adults and 3 or more children) or more $40 max Reservations are not required. However, parties of 10 or more may make a reservation by calling the church office at 401-434-4742 x10.

Newman Congregational Church, United Church of Christ is located at 100 Newman Avenue, Rumford, RI 02916. For more information, call 401-434-4742 X10.

401-438-1980

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/CASA-IDEAL CASAIDEAL88@GMAIL.COM

First Communion this Spring? We have...

First Communion Dresses, Boys Suits, Religious Gifts & Accessories

◆ Portuguese Jewelry ◆ Watch Batteries ◆ Jewelry Repair

Mon, Tues, Thurs & Fri 10am-6pm • Wed 11am-5pm • Sat 9:30am-5pm Closed Sunday

“Spring adds new life and new beauty to all that is.”

— Jessica Harrelson

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The Reporter March 2026

Local Fitness Scene Continues to Grow New Fitness Studio Comes to Rehoboth!

Aura Kickboxing Opens Its Doors Aura Kickboxing officially celebrated its grand opening on February 7th, bringing a new fitness and community space to the town of Rehoboth and surrounding areas.

Family owned by local Rehoboth residents Dan and Sophia Bessette, Aura Kickboxing was built with a focus on creating more than just a place to work out. The Bessettes envisioned a supportive environment where people of all fitness levels, whether they are new to Kickboxing or seasoned pros, can challenge themselves, build confidence, and feel connected, in addition to learning new skills.

“The opportunity came unexpectedly, but the intention behind it has always been the same – create something meaningful for our community, friends and family. What helped to motivate us was the owner of ILoveKickboxing in Seekonk (now closed), Candice, whose leadership and example showed us what a supportive and empowering space can really look like. I was a former coach and she was my mentor,” said Sophia Bessette “We wanted to create something that feels welcoming and energizing,” said Dan Bessette. “Our goal is to build a strong community where members motivate each other and celebrate progress together.”

The grand opening welcomed residents, families, and friends who toured the studio, met the coaches, and experienced the positive energy that defines Aura Kickboxing classes.

A major part of that energy comes from the skilled coaching team. Coaches Johnny, Massiel, Jess, and Isabel — familiar faces to many from their time at ILoveKickboxing in Seekonk — have joined Aura Kickboxing, bringing their experience, enthusiasm, and established relationships within the local fitness community. Their coaching styles help to ensure both high-quality instruction and a welcoming atmosphere.

The team is also expanding with Coach Lee, Sophia’s brother and retired Marine Veteran, who has joined as a coach in training, further strengthening the studio’s commitment to growth and development.

Aura Kickboxing offers full-body kickboxing workouts using heavy punching bags including conditioning, & stretching designed to improve strength, endurance, and confidence in a supportive group setting. Classes are scalable to all fitness levels, from beginners to experienced athletes for ages 14 and up.

The studio is now welcoming new members from Rehoboth and surrounding communities. We are located at 224 Winthrop St. Rehoboth, MA 02769 For class information check out aurakickboxingma.com, follow Aura Kickboxing on Facebook and Instagram for updates.

Owners Sophia and Dan Bessette

March 2026 The Reporter

House of Fitness: A Welcoming Place to Build Strength and Community

For many people, walking into a gym for the first time can feel intimidating. At House of Fitness in Rehoboth, members quickly discover a motivating, welcoming, and fun environment where people of all fitness levels feel comfortable working toward their goals.

House of Fitness focuses on more than just workouts. The gym emphasizes overall wellness, helping members build strength, confidence, and healthier habits in a supportive community setting.

With a variety of training options including personal training, small group classes, strength training, and high-intensity workouts, there are opportunities for everyone to find a routine that works for them.

House of Fitness uses the MindBody app, making it easy for members to schedule classes and manage their workouts. During training sessions, heart rates are monitored to give participants a clear picture of how their bodies are performing. After each workout, members receive reports showing their heart rate zones, calories burned, and overall progress over time.

A key part of the gym’s success is its team of dedicated trainers. The coaching staff brings experience, energy, and encouragement to every session, creating a positive atmosphere where members feel motivated to challenge themselves while still enjoying the process.

Owner Colleen Curry founded House of Fitness with the goal of helping people feel stronger and more confident in their everyday lives. Known for her approachable personality and passion for fitness, Colleen has worked to create a gym culture centered around support, encouragement, and community.

Today, House of Fitness continues to be a place where members come not only to work out but also to connect with others who share similar goals. The gym’s welcoming environment and enthusiastic trainers help make fitness both rewarding and enjoyable.

At House of Fitness, the focus isn’t just on lifting weights — it’s on lifting each other up along the way.

House of Fitness is located at 7 Park St., Unit 3 in Rehoboth.

For more information about classes, training programs, and membership opportunities, visit www. houseoffitness.org Owner Colleen Curry

A Premier Private and Small Group Training Facility High Intensity Interval Training | Personal Training | Group Training Mobility, Teen, Strength and Conditioning & more!

Helping our community improve health and wellness through passionate coaching, effective training, and a motivating, fun gym environment.

7 Park St. Unit 3 | Rehoboth, MA 02769 774-218-6715 | www.houseoffitness.org

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The Reporter March 2026

Anytime Fitness Seekonk: Fitness That Fits Your Life

Owners, Kris and John Dias, welcome you to ANYTIME FITNESS!

Finding a gym that fits your schedule, goals, and comfort level can make all the difference in staying motivated. In Seekonk, Anytime Fitness offers a welcoming environment designed to help members build healthier habits while feeling supported every step of the way.

One of the biggest advantages of Anytime Fitness is right in the name: members have access to the gym 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Whether you prefer early morning workouts, late-night training sessions, or squeezing in exercise between a busy schedule, the gym is always open and ready when you are.

Inside the facility, members will find a wide variety of equipment to support every type of workout. The gym includes modern cardio machines such as treadmills and bikes, along with free weights, strength machines, and space for functional training. These options make it easy for beginners and experienced athletes alike to create workouts that match their goals.

Beyond the equipment, the gym is known for its supportive and community-focused atmosphere. Coaches and staff work with members to create personalized plans and provide guidance along the way. Personal training and group workouts are available, offering opportunities to learn new techniques, stay accountable, and make progress faster.

Members also appreciate the clean, well-maintained facility and welcoming environment, where people of all fitness levels feel comfortable working toward their goals. Many describe the gym as a place where consistency becomes easier thanks to friendly staff, modern equipment, and a community that encourages success.

Conveniently located at 181 Highland Avenue in Seekonk, Anytime Fitness makes it simple to fit health and wellness into everyday life. For anyone looking for a gym that combines flexibility, professional coaching, and a positive atmosphere, Anytime Fitness offers a strong reason to get started and stay committed to a healthier lifestyle.

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FACEBOOK.COM/ANYTIMEFITNESSSEEKONK @ANYTIMEFITNESSSEEKONKMA24

Now Open

“Our mission is to help people thrive through a fit and active lifestyle.”

— Anytime Fitness

March 2026 The Reporter

Club News & ANNOUNCEMENTS Seekonk Lions Club Fishing Derby Patriots Day fishing fun from the Seekonk Lions Club Paul Buckley President

Save the Date for the Best Fishing Derby Ever!!!!

Spring is just around the corner! It’s time to shake off the winter snow and start dreaming of warm days and great catches. The Seekonk Lions Club’s Fourteenth Annual Doug Allan Memorial Fishing Tournament is almost here… proudly featuring the best prizes, sponsors, and fun in the local community. How do we know it’s the best? Well, that fishing magazine in the store says, “George the Fishing Guy and all his buddies at the Lions Club put on the most fantastic derby around!”

And we couldn’t agree more! For fourteen years now, this event has brought together a loyal crowd of anglers, new and seasoned, all eager to cast their lines and share the excitement. Local celebrities and dignitaries make sure everyone gets a good look at their smiling faces. Patriots Day in Seekonk at the Grist Mill Pond is the place to be! Everyone enjoys plenty of free donuts, hot chocolate, and coffee to keep everyone warm and energized.

Mark your calendars! The fun kicks off on Patriots Day, Monday, April 20, 2026, at the Old Grist Mill Pond, RT 114A, Seekonk.

The tournament runs from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., and it’s open to all children through high school in the area—so bring the whole family!

This year’s derby marks fourteen incredible years of fishing and community. Our friends at American Legion Post 311 are once again sponsoring the banquet, providing a cozy hall where anglers can relax, swap stories, and enjoy delicious Chick-fil-A sandwiches, cookies, chips, and drinks—perfect fuel for a morning of fishing fun.

Don’t have a fishing pole? No worries! We have got you covered. Poles will be available for first-timers and anyone wanting to give it a try. There will be a variety of bait and accessories on hand, along with expert advice from George, the renowned Fishing Guy himself. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a first-time fisher, this is your chance to learn, laugh, and maybe even land the big one!

We are excited to welcome back our loyal anglers and invite new friends to join the fun. It is going to be a fantastic morning of great fishing, good company, and amazing prizes—as it has been for the past fourteen years!

To register, volunteer, or help support the event, please email seekonkfishingtournament@yahoo.com.

For the latest updates, visit our website at https://www. seekonklions.club.

And remember—there’s no charge to participate! Just bring your fishing poles, a little of that special bait you love, say hello to George, get ready to catch some fish and make some memories!

Seekonk Lions Club Announces Postponement of the Annual Taste of the Town

The Seekonk Lions Club regretfully announces that the upcoming Taste of the Town event has been postponed from its scheduled date of April 20, 2026. This annual gathering, which the Lions Club has proudly sponsored since

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taking over from the Seekonk Kiwanis Club in 2022, is a beloved event within our community.

The postponement is due to logistical issues that need to be addressed to ensure we can deliver a high-quality experience for all attendees. The Lion’s Club is committed to providing an event that meets the expectations of our community and maintains the standards that make Taste of the Town special.

Since its inception, Taste of the Town has offered an opportunity for residents for over 25 years to welcome the new season—getting out to a beautiful venue where friends young and old reconnect, share stories of winter folly, and catch up on upcoming spring adventures—all while enjoying the culinary delights from over 40 food and beverage vendors. The attendance of nearly 300 people last year at Ledgemont Country Club speaks volumes about the event’s significance.

While we are disappointed to delay this treasured event, we look forward to rescheduling Taste of the Town in the near future.

Updates will be shared as plans are finalized.

Thank you for your continued support and understanding. We remain committed to serving the Seekonk community and bringing us all together once again soon.

Paul Buckley President Seekonk Lions Club Seekonklionsma@gmail.com Seekonk Lions Charitable Trust Inc.

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The Reporter March 2026

Hornbine School Museum

Calling For Volunteers for Open Houses

As we prepare for our upcoming OPEN HOUSES this season, we are looking for volunteers who share an appreciation for local history and a desire to help preserve it. Whether you enjoy greeting guests, sharing stories, helping with simple demonstrations, playing outdoor games with children or simply being a friendly presence, there is a place for you. No prior historical knowledge is required; just bring your enthusiasm and a willingness to lend a hand.

Volunteering at the Hornbine School will be a chance to meet neighbors, contribute to a community tradition, and help keep an important piece of Rehoboth’s heritage alive. If you have a few hours to spare and would like to be part of this effort, we would be delighted to have you join us. Your time and energy will help ensure that the Hornbine Schoolhouse continues to be shared, celebrated, and remembered.

The museum is open from 2 – 4 each 2nd and 4th Sunday of June, July August and September. Contact Dawn at HornbineSchool@gmail.com 508-728-4867 or Dave at hglump@comcast. net 508-222-7326 for details.

Search for our WEBSITE by Googling HORNBINESCHOOL. You will also find a link to our FACEBOOK page.

Events at the Seekonk American Legion Post 311 Annual Spring Meat Raffles Starting March 28th

Weekly Meat Raffles will run for 7 weeks at the Seekonk American Legion located at 351 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA. The dates this spring are: 3/28, 4/4, 4/11 and 4/25, 5/2, 5/9, 5/16. 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. Call 508-336-9822 for information.

Spring Psychic Fair – April 19th

We will be holding our Spring Psychic Fair on Sunday, 4/19/26.

Admission is free. 15-minute readings are $20.00 each. There will also be several Vendors and Crafters (spaces are still available).

The hours are from 10 am to 3 pm. Proceeds to benefit American Legion Auxiliary programs for our Veterans, community and children.

For more information, please call Kathy at 401-434-8917 or send email to auxiliary311@yahoo.com.

Paint Party to benefit “Service Dogs for Veterans” – May 3rd

A Paint Party will be held on Sunday, May 3rd. We will be painting “Patriotic Flowers” on canvas. Doors open at noon with painting starting at 1 pm. Tickets include all materials and one free beverage. There will be a cash bar. Reservations must be made in advance by April 18th in the amount of $35.00 per person, ages 16 and up. Please make checks/money orders payable to: American Legion Auxiliary, Unit 311 and mail to Donna Reed, 29 Lanesboro St, Pawtucket, RI 02861. Tickets are nonrefundable and will be mailed upon receipt of reservation. Please send any questions to auxiliary311@yahoo.com or Donnareedunit311@gmail.com or call/ text Donna at 401-451-1944. 100% of net proceeds from this event will go to NEADS to train a Service Dog for a Veteran.

Lottery

Outside at Hornbine

Anawan Fire Association House Number Order Form

Reflective Sign Only $20 Make Checks payable to: Anawan Fire Association P.O. Box 824 Rehoboth, MA 02769 Name:____________________________________ Address:___________________________________ Phone:____________________________________ Please write your address number below…

The lottery is now available at the American Legion. Come on down and play.

Music at the American Legion

Friday Night Bands – starts at 7 pm with no cover charge Jukebox Heros – 3/13, upstairs Rock A Blues –4/10

Hall Rental

150 person capacity. Contact Bob for information at 508-3369822

New members are welcome

American Legion - If you have served at least one day of active military duty since December 7, 1941, and were honorably discharged or you are still serving active military duty honorably, you are eligible for membership with The American Legion. American Legion meetings are held the 3rd Sunday of the month at 10 am American Legion Auxiliary - Members are grandmothers, mothers, sisters, spouses (female/male), and direct /adopted female daughters or granddaughters of Veterans/members of The American Legion. A female Veteran can join the Auxiliary without being a member of the American Legion. American Legion Auxiliary meetings are held the 1st Sunday of the month at 11 am.

Sons of the American Legion – Members are male descendants, adopted sons and stepsons of Veterans/members of The American Legion.

For additional information call the Post at 508-336-9822.

351 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA 02771 508-336-9822 Seekonkpost311.org

March 2026 The Reporter

Rehoboth Lions Club 1957-2026

Rehoboth Lions Club 1957-2026

2026 Nomination Form 2026 Nomination Form The Russell Latham Citizens Recognition Awards Night Russellhas Latham Citizens Recognition Awards Night both Lions Club will honor people whose service to theThe community surpassed

Rehoboth Lions NIGHT Club will honor people Expectations The at a"RECOGNITION BANQUET" to bewhose held atservice TBD to the community has surpassed Expectations Wednesday May 20,2026 at a"RECOGNITION NIGHT BANQUET" to be held at TBD Wednesday May 20,2026 provide opportunity to nominate a person deserving in any of the following areas.

This form provide opportunity to nominate person deserving in any of the following areas. *** Please check the appropriate award and attach your one page anomination statement *** Please check the appropriate award and attach EROCHE OUTSTANDING SERVICE AWARD - Presented to a person whose service to the community your one page nomination statement

1. and JOSEPH DEROCHEeffort OUTSTANDING AWARD - Presented wide range of the population has required above and SERVICE beyond that expected of the to a person whose service to the community has served a wide range of the population and has required effort above and beyond that expected of the general public community general qualities public and achievements serve as models for NDING YOUTH - A young person whose personal 2. OUTSTANDING YOUTH - A young person whose personal qualities and achievements serve as models for people in the community other or young peopletown in theofficial community ERVANT - Presented to an elected appointed or municipal employee whose 3. PUBLIC SERVANT - Presented to an elected or appointed town official or municipal employee whose e surpassed the expectations of there position have surpassed expectations of there position ND G. DYER HUMAMITARIANactions AWARDA person whothe actions and deeds have fostered 4. RAYMOND G. DYER HUMAMITARIAN AWARD- A person who actions and deeds have fostered good will and fairness to all people of the community of good to will and fairness to educator all peopleinofRehoboth the community LATHAM EDUCATOR OF THEattitudes YEAR-Presented the professional or 5. RUSSELL LATHAM EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR-Presented to the professional educator in Rehoboth or e dedication to the students and whose accomplishments in the field of education serve as DR HS whose dedication to the students and whose accomplishments in the field of education serve as oth active professionals and those entering the profession models to both active professionals and those entering the profession AWARD - Presented to the person who placed personal saftey in jeopardy while aiding 6. HEROISM AWARD - Presented to the person who placed personal saftey in jeopardy while aiding se in need someone else in need ITIZEN OF THE YEAR - Presented to the CITIZEN senior citizen whose and accomplishments 7. SENIOR OF THE YEARlife - Presented to the senior have citizen whose life and accomplishments have inspiration to others served as an inspiration to others NDING ACHIEVEMENT - A local may be ACHIEVEMENT recognized for individual accomplishment 8. resident OUTSTANDING - A local resident may be recognized for individual accomplishment L P. SILVEIRA PUBLIC SAFTY AWARDA person of commitment, dedication andAcompassion 9. RANDALL P. SILVEIRA PUBLIC SAFTY AWARDperson of commitment, dedication and compassion g a key roll in promoting public safty in Thea Town ofin Rehoboth Rehoboth while playing key roll promoting public safty in The Town of Rehoboth NMENTAL STEWARDSHIP AWARD - In recognition of your significant contribution to, and long 10. ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP AWARD - In recognition of your significant contribution to, and long Lions Club dship and protection of Rehoboth's landscape and protection of Rehoboth's landscape term stewardship 1957-2026 D NOONS COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD -Presented to an individual whoAWARD has consistently been 11.RICHARD NOONS COMMUNITY SERVICE -Presented to an individual who has consistently been he community activities and aservice leaderto inothers the community activities and service to others EIGHBOR AWARD - Presented recognition of theAWARD many selfless acts toinassist neighbors as many selfless acts to assist neighbors as 12.inGOOD NEIGHBOR - Presented recognition of the 2026 Nomination Form munity groups well as community groups

6:00pm Cash Bar Social 7:00pm Dinner TBD Per Person

PLEASE RETURN ALL NOMINATIONS TO THE ADDRESS BELOW ON OR BEFORE FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2026 Rehoboth Lions Club c/o Steve Brasier 24 Park St Rehoboth, MA 02769

Nominee's Name :

The Russell Latham Citizens Recognition Awards Night

6:00pm Cash Bar Social

Address : Dinner 7:00pm

TBD Per Person

Phone Number:

Nominator's Signature:

Email : Email:

Address : Phone Number: On an additional page please explain your reasons for nominating this person he scope of Please describe their achievements , supplying background information and th oboth, their activities. These awards are open to those who live and/ or work in Reho including all DR staff.

Award recipients will be chosen by April 17, 2026 and notified by April 20, 20026 Please direct any calls to Mike Salois at 508-222-2656 or Steve Brasier at 508-5505-1610

PLEASE RETURN ALL NOMINATIONS TO THE ADDRESS BELOW ON OR BEFORE FRIDAY APRIL 15, 2026

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The Reporter March 2026

SCOUTING AROUND Seekonk Scouts

Seekonk Troop 1 and Troop 9 Scouts participated in an outing to Tangy’s Archery in Warwick, RI. Tangy’s staff taught the Scouts proper bow and arrow handling and safety. Scouts had a friendly competition to demonstrate their new skills. Over the past several weeks, Troop 1 and Troop 9 have been working on their Cooking Merit Badge. The merit badge requirements include meal planning, budgeting, and preparation of several of the meals they planned.

Additionally, some Scouts had the opportunity to practice swimming skills.

During the recent blizzard, many Scouts assisted neighbors with shoveling driveways and sidewalks, ensuring their neighbors are safe, and providing assistance to the community.

Seekonk Scouts are currently planning many adventures for the year ahead including camping, hiking, and bicycling trips, as well as their annual weeklong summer camp adventure at Camp Yawgoog.

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 Troop 1 and Troop 9 Scouts at their archery outing last month

March 2026 The Reporter

SCHOOL NEWS St. Mary - Bayview Academy Honor Roll Q2 Seekonk

High Honors: CLASS OF 2026: Lauren Adamonis. CLASS OF 2028: Sophia Vieira.

CLASS OF 2029: Emma Chase. CLASS OF 2030: Margot Palmaccio. CLASS OF 2031: Mackenzie Seyboth. CLASS OF 2032: Bliss Boyle.

Honors: CLASS OF 2026: Ariana Bobiak, Yishan Brady. CLASS OF 2027: Yiling Brady, Marya Cheema. CLASS OF 2030: Londyn Skomro.

Rehoboth

High Honors: CLASS OF 2029: Gabriella Faria. CLASS OF 2032: Juliana Hebert, Mila Lewis.

Honors: CLASS OF 2026: Jillian Escobar, Avery Gomes. CLASS OF 2027: Jalissa Escobar, Allison Mandeville. CLASS OF 2028: Rhaea Crepeau. CLASS OF 2029: Sofia Hebert. CLASS OF 2031: Bella Andrade, Nora Coelho, Mackenzie Reeves. CLASS OF 2032: Evelyn Richer.

Twin Oaks Farm Learning Center Now Enrolling 2026-2027 Full Day Year-Round Kindergarten & Pre-School

After School Program Available Open 7am-5:30pm Smaller Class • Core curriculum tailored per child PLUS Extra-curriculars such as: Music, Foreign Languages, Culinary, Yoga, Dance, Karate

Be Part of a Winning Teaching Team

Looking for Infant / Toddler / Kindergarten EEC certified Teachers Small classes, country setting, college opportunities, dental and vision insurance, retirement plans. Curriculum planning and professional support.

We are dedicated to giving children “A BETTER BEGINNING.”

127 Tremont Street, Rehoboth MA ~ 508.252.5522

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The Reporter March 2026

Seekonk Public Library

www.seekonkpl.org • library@seekonkpl.org • 508.336.8230

Visible Mending Workshop

Wednesdays, March 11 & 25 at 5:30 PM

You can extend the life of your clothing with creative repair techniques. Join us at Seekonk Library on Wednesdays, March 11 and 25 at 5:30 PM for the series Visible Mending Workshop, a two-session workshop series. Presenter Leslie Guglielmo will teach you practical hand-stitching skills and decorative mending methods to repair worn or damaged garments. Bring one item to work on, turning flaws into features through thoughtful, creative stitching.

This hands-on, two-session series is ideal for beginners and those looking to refresh basic sewing skills while exploring sustainable fashion practices. Space is limited and attendance at both sessions

Puppies are a lot of work!!

Confused about how to safely socialize and train your puppy? We are here to teach your puppy to become the best social and well-mannered dog he can be!

Get started right away with flexible Puppy Kindergarten classes and multiple Puppy Socials each week for safe socialization and training!

Join our friendly community of dog lovers for fun and support!

How can we help?

Poochpawsitive.com • 401-714-5652

is required; pre-registration with a SAILS library card is required, one person per registration. Register in the online Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events.­­ ABOUT THE PRESENTER: Leslie Guglielmo is a certified sewing instructor who has taught sewing skills to youth and adults, including classes at Stitch Source (formerly Knit One Quilt Too) in Barrington, RI. Leslie has received multiple Seekonk Cultural Council grants for textile workshops.

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

Wartime Clothing from the Revolution Forward Presentation Thursday, March 12 at 6 PM

Step through history to explore how clothing reflected both daily life and historic change in the event Stitching a Nation: Wartime Clothing During the Revolution & Beyond. This engaging presentation at Seekonk Public Library on Thursday, March 12 at 6 PM will highlight differences between wartime necessity and peacetime style. Led by presenter Ren Antonowicz, we will examine garments and learn how they were made, worn, and adapted, and what these choices reveal about class, labor, and life in American history. Perfect for history enthusiasts and curious learners alike! This event is free and open to the public. For planning purposes and to be notified of any changes, please register in advance and see more information in the online Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events.

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

ABOUT THE PRESENTER: Presenter Karen Antonowicz has taught college courses in History of Fashion and other courses for 13 years, and with her husband opened and managed Nostalgia Antiques & Collectibles in Providence for five years.

Located in East Providence, RI Heidi Palmer McNeil, CTC, CPDT-KA

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WWW.SOARESPUMPING.COM

Connect, Learn and Explore with GetSetUp Tuesday, March 17 at 2 PM

Seekonk, MA – Seekonk Public Library now offers free access to Gale Presents: GetSetUp, an engaging online learning platform designed to help residents of all ages discover new skills, stay active, and connect with others. Join us at the library to find out more on March 17 at 2 PM in Library Tech Class: Get Started with GetSetUp! Register in the Events Calendar at seekonkpl.org/events.

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

“GetSetUp encourages lifelong learning in a welcoming, social space,” said Michelle Gario, Senior Librarian. “It’s perfect for anyone looking to explore something new or stay connected from home.”

You can join anytime from your computer, tablet, or smartphone and even get help from a live person for technical support! Get started free with your library card at seekonkpl.org.

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

March 2026 The Reporter

Oscar Buzz Movie

Friends Seekonk Public Library News

Thursday, March 19 at 5 PM

Catch up on popular and award-nominated movies with us!

Watch this highly-regarded new release for FREE at Seekonk Public Library: Runtime: 2 hours 41 minutes Rated R. Action, Thriller, Crime

Summary - When their evil enemy resurfaces after 16 years, a group of ex-revolutionaries reunite to rescue one of their own’s daughter.

Note: This film contains mature content intended for adult audiences.

Licensing prevents us from printing titles; call the library at 508336-8230 ext. 56130 or email library@seekonkpl.org for the title and other details. Register in the calendar at seekonkpl.org/events for planning purposes and to receive important program updates.

Thank you to all who came to our weeklong books sale in February. We had some great bargains and sold a lot of books. Thank you to all the people who donated books to make it possible to have such a great sale. As the donations came in, we were putting them right into the sale.

Because we sold so many books, we are in great need of soft cover adult fiction books. We are also looking for graphic novels for grades 1-8, birth to grade 2 books, and Leveled Readers. As you are getting ready for your spring cleaning, remember the Friends are accepting all types of books regardless of their condition as well as CDs, DVDs, and books on tape. Our next big sale will be on May 2nd. We have our books in the lobby for sale every Monday through Saturday. Thank you again for supporting us so that we can support the library.

Like, Share, Photocopy?

Tuesday, March 24, 2026 at 6:00 PM

Zines are handmade publications that come in an infinite number of formats and topics, made by anyone who is passionate enough about their subject to put it out into the world. Long before the invention of the internet, people spread their ideas by simply putting them on paper and distributing them by hand. So you could say that zines are an early form of social media. All you have to do is get your work on paper and then reproduce it using the ancient forebear of modern-day “share” buttons…the Xerox machine. In this workshop, you’ll learn a simple technique for making your own pocket-sized pamphlet. We’ll photocopy your finished zines, and participants will get to take home a copy of each other’s work.

This program is free and open to the public; for planning and to be notified of program updates please register in our Events Calendar at seekonkpl.org/events.

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

Prompt, Reliable, Quality Work

(401) 736-0600 • (401) 323-6100

Oscar Buzz Movie

Thursday, March 26 at 5:30 PM

Catch up on popular and award-nominated movies with us! Watch this highlyregarded new release for FREE at Seekonk Public Library: Runtime: 2 hours 5 minutes Rated PG-13 Drama, Romance, History

Summary - After losing their son Hamnet to plague, Agnes and William Shakespeare grapple with grief in 16th-century England. A healer, Agnes must find strength to care for her surviving children while processing her devastating loss.

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

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RUSSELL WEDDELL, REAL ESTATE BROKER Rehoboth native Russell Weddell is proud to announce that he is now actively serving clients throughout the Southcoast and surrounding communities as a real estate broker at Keller Williams.

Whether you’re buying your first home, selling a property, or exploring investment opportunities, you can trust Russell to guide you through the process with confidence, professionalism, and care.

508-284-4514 rweddell@kw.com

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The Reporter March 2026

Teen Services

Teen Advisory Board

Thursday, March 5 at 3:30 PM

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

Your opinion matters! If you’re in grade 6 through 12, then you have a chance to make a difference at your library by joining the Teen Advisory Board (TAB). During the school year, we will meet once a month at 3:30 PM to share ideas about upcoming programs and discuss how we can make the most out of the library’s services for tweens and teens. This is an opportunity to practice leadership, collaboration, and civic engagement and to take an active role in shaping the library’s impact on your community. Becoming a member of the board requires a commitment to attend meetings regularly.

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

Zines Workshop for Teens

Thursday, March 19 at 3:00 PM

Artists, cartoonists, animators, writers, poets, debaters, philosophers, Thinkers of Thoughts…anyone with anything to say, this workshop is for you! Learn to make zines--handmade publications that come in an infinite number of formats and topics, made by anyone who is passionate enough about their subject to put it out into the world. Long before the invention of the internet, people spread their ideas by simply putting them on paper and distributing them by hand. So you could say that zines are an early form of social media. All you have to do is get your work on paper and then reproduce it using the ancient forbear of modern-day “share” buttons…the Xerox machine.

This 1-hour event is free and open to tweens and teens in grades 6 through 12. Please register online at seekonkpl.org/events.

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

24-Hour Emergency Septic Services Serving Seekonk & Surrounding Areas

774-888-7122

David C Zaluski DDS FAGD Family - Implant - Cosmetic Dentistry

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Community & Teachers Federal Credit Union Serving Our Community for Over 64 Years & we're still in the green!

Federally Char tered & Federally Insured

Youth Services

Kid Librarian of the Month March 1-31

Ages 7-12. Stop by the Children’s Room to fill out an application for the chance to become the Kid Librarian of the Month. As a Kid Librarian, you will receive an official T-shirt and oversee the creation of a book display with a theme of your choice. You will also make a sign to accompany the display. If needed, the Kid Librarian can ask the Librarian for assistance setting up the display. The Kid Librarian of the Month will be selected in the last week of the month, and their display will remain on display for the rest of the following month. If chosen, you will be contacted by email or phone. All applications will remain on file.

Preschool Storytime

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

438-7788 • 438-7789 Nos Falamos Portuguese

Member East Providence Chamber of Commerce

Thursday, March 26 at 3:00 PM

Making pin-back buttons is quick and easy, and a fun way to personalize your bag, jacket, bulletin board, etc. Personalized buttons are also great for trading with friends or giving out as small gifts.

Join us for this program and learn how to use a button machine to create your own 1-inch or 2 ¼-inch buttons. We’ll provide old magazines to cut images from, or you can create your own designs by hand. You’ll be able to take your buttons home or trade with other participants at the event.

This 1-hour event is free and open to grades 6 through 12.

Please register online at seekonkpl.org/events.

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

Monday, March 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 10:00 AM

1169 South Broadway, East Providence, RI NCUA

Make Your Own Pin-Back Buttons

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

March 2026 The Reporter

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Toddler Storytime

Beyblade and Lego Builders Club

Ages 18-36 Months. oddler storytime includes reading a few books, followed by music, finger plays, movement, and yes, even bubbles! Drop in.

Grades 1-5. Let it rip at Beyblade and Builders Club! Battle by launching your Beyblades into a stadium to see who comes out on top. Channel your inner engineer or architect to build a Lego creation, on your own or with a friend. We supply the Legos you supply the imagination! Join free play and friendly competition!

Bring your own Beyblades and stadiums or use the library’s limited supply. Come battle, build, and meet some new friends! Drop in.

Wednesday, March 4, 11, 18, 10:00 AM

Baby Storytime

Thursday, March 5, 12, 19, 26, 10:00 AM

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

Paws to Read

Tuesday, March 3, 3:30 PM

Help your child build reading skills and boost confidence by signing up for Paws to Read! During this special program, children can reserve a 15-minute one-on-one session to read aloud to Gizmo and Pepe, two lovable Chihuahua/Pomeranian mix therapy dogs.

Reading to animals has been shown to improve reading fluency and confidence, especially for struggling readers. Each private session is led by Sandra Healey and her therapy dogs, Gizmo and Pepe. Register

Thursday, March 12, 4:00 PM

Jose Soares Masonry Pavers • Walkways Cement Stonewalls • Chimneys Patios • Steps

Read Across America Celebration Week Monday, March 2 – Friday, March 6

All ages. Celebrate Read Across America Week and Dr. Seuss’s birthday with a week full of silly stories and Seussian fun! Stop by the Children’s Room Monday through Friday to enjoy a different Dr. Seuss book each day. After reading, stick around for a themed activity to keep the fun going. Drop in anytime to read at your own pace and complete the activity—no registration needed. Let the rhyming adventures begin! Drop in.

Family Minute to Win it!

Saturday, March 7, 10 AM

All ages. Continue celebrating Read Across America Week with fast, fun, Minute to Win It challenges for families of all ages - with a Dr. Seuss twist! Stop by to compete with family and friends in quick challenges to beat the clock and earn bragging rights! Drop in.

No job too small!

Call 401-463-8967 cmillo321@aim.com

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The Reporter March 2026

Homeschool Hangout Friday, March 13, 2 PM

All ages. Join us in the meeting room to meet, play, and learn with other homeschool families! Activities and games for kids will be provided. Educators will have the opportunity ask reference questions or share resources with other home educators. Drop in.

Crafternoon in the Children’s room Thursday, March 19, 1:30 PM

It is an early release day, and the children’s room has a craft for you to welcome Spring! Swing by the children’s room and get crafting! We have everything you need to make your very own Spring creation. All supplies are provided, drop in and let your imagination do the rest! All ages.

By Leslie Patterson

Children’s Programs

• Stories on Songs for Little Ones will be on Mon. March 9 at 10:30, for children up to age 6.

• Tot Time for babies and preschoolers up to age 3 with stories, music and movement. Siblings are welcome. Tuesdays at 10:30.

• Story & Crafts for children ages 3 and up. Thursdays at 10:30.

Listen to a story and make a craft to take home. Siblings welcome.

• Legos at the Library on Sat. March 14 from 11 to 2. Stop by the Blanding to make something special.

Retirement Planning Sessions

Sensory Play

Saturday, March 21, 10:00 AM

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

Collage Art

There will be two retirement planning information sessions held at Goff Hall and presented by WealthMax Financial Group. Dates are Mon. March 9 and Tues. March 10, both at 6pm.

Pop-Up Beer Can Museum

A pop-up beer can museum and presentation on the history of beer cans with some focus on some local breweries will be on offer on Sat. March 21 from 1 to 2.

Folk Concert April 8

Monday, March 23, 6:00 PM

Grade 1-3. Many illustrators, including Lois Ehlert, use Collage Art to create interesting pages in their picture books. In this Artful Pages Project, we will examine a few of these artists’ books, then tear apart magazines and books to create our own Collage Art. Register.

Tiny Hands Workshop

Wednesday, March 25, 10 AM

Ages 18 – 36 Months. Tiny Hands Workshop is a hands-on workshop designed to support early childhood development! Kids will explore stations set up around the room, perfect for practicing fine motor skills. These activities lay the foundation for pre-literacy abilities and school readiness. This program is in association with P.A.C.E., Inc. Child Care Works. Register.

ision & Paint Specialist Coll

News and Notes from...

Blanding Library

RI Lic. #65

Musicians Andrew Lewis and Margaret Ferri return to the library to present their award-winning musical program “The Coffeehouse”, which focuses on the historic period of the popular coffeehouse scene of the 1960s and the 1970s. Free, Wed. April 8 at 6:30.

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. They will next meet on March 19. 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.

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.

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r w

Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00am-5:00pm

y e Blanding Library in the snow - by Sherri Poccia.

March 2026 The Reporter

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Working with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) Practitioner Written by Lars Lambrecht, CFP, CLU, BFA, AMPA, CDFA, CLTC, CSLP, owner of Island Time Financial Services, Inc.

I once read an article that many people put meeting with a financial advisor in the same bucket as taking a math test or going to the dentist! While the thought of working with a financial advisor may be intimidating, most people find the process is easier than they thought it would be and walk away with increased peace of mind.

Many sources recommend working with a financial advisor that holds a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) Practitioner designation.

CFPs are required to work as fiduciaries, must meet experience requirements and pass extensive examinations.

What is Financial Planning? There are many aspects to financial planning. Some advisors only help clients in certain areas.

CFPs generally provide comprehensive advice covering all areas and how they interrelate. Your situation may also warrant working with someone that specializes in more complex situations such as divorce, business owner strategies or tax planning.

Financial Position. This area is quite broad. Should you buy or lease a car? How much should you put down on a home purchase?

Are you fully utilizing your work benefits? CFPs can also assist with looking at your cash flow to set up a budget, as well as debt management strategies.

Protection Planning. This includes life, disability, long-term care, homeowners, auto and liability insurance. CFPs can help you understand the differences between various types of insurance, as well as how much insurance is appropriate, as well as riders to consider.

Investment Planning. The universe of investments is expansive. CFPs can help you review options in your work retirement plan. They can also help you set up investments in mutual funds, ETFs, 529 plans, stocks, treasuries and CDs. Investment planning includes strategies to achieve specific goals such as a home purchase or college education.

Tax Planning. There are key differences between tax preparation and tax planning. Tax planning involves looking at past tax returns and exploring proactive strategies to reduce taxes. These

generally fall into categories of tax deductions, tax credits, tax deferral and tax-free income.

Retirement Planning. This includes strategies to be able to retire, such as how much money do you need to save, how to leverage work retirement plans Lars Lambrecht and where to save. It also includes critical strategies once you retire, such as creating lifetime income, adjusting risk, housing changes and healthcare.

Estate Planning. An attorney is utilized to create estate planning documents. CFPs assist with the implementation of estate planning strategies. This includes items such as setting up beneficiaries, types of trusts and how to avoid probate. It can also include more advanced considerations such as avoiding estate taxes and sheltering assets from Medicaid.

Compensation. Financial advisors can be compensated on a commission-basis and/or fee-basis. They may receive commissions on products they recommend. Fee-based financial advisors typically charge an annual retainer for financial advice and/or a percentage of the assets they are managing for you. It is important to understand how your advisor will be compensated.

Key questions to ask when interviewing an advisor. How will you be paid? Do you receive incentives to sell certain products?

How many years have you been practicing? What professional designations do you hold? Do you function as a Fiduciary? How often will you meet with me? What areas do you specialize in? When are you paid commissions?

The relationship with your CFP is a critical one. Obviously, education, experience and product availability are critical, but it is also important that you feel comfortable with their style and personality. If you are not satisfied with your existing advisor, most financial advisors are willing to meet for a complimentary consultation for a second opinion.

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

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The Reporter March 2026

Spring Home & Garden March in New England: What Homeowners Should Be Doing In Their Yard Right Now

By Mikey Alves

Snow’s melting, soil is cold, the air teases some warmth— only to snap back with one last cold front. The weather is inconsistent, unpredictable, and easy to overlook. But for homeowners, this is one of the most crucial windows of the year. The truth is— the spring is coming fast— and what you do now— quietly determines how your yard, garden, and trees will perform this upcoming season.

True early effort doesn’t just prepare your landscape for the spring; it sets the tone for the entire growing season that is arriving sooner than you know it.

So, you can follow these steps in order to best prepare your garden to strive for a strong and healthy growing season:

Plan— before you plant

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• First off, don’t forget the most important step before you do anything: preparation!

• Sketch your vegetable and fruit plants layout and order seeds early.

• Rotate crops from last year’s rotation to reduce the soil disease.

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Start planning for the season...

Prune— but the best time to prune depends on the plant

• Use prune cutters; cut them in small sections, 8-12 inch lengths at a time.

• Keep plants moist in a jar of water until done pruning; remove dead limbs and/or growth you don’t want.

• Trim early Spring-flowering plants after they bloom.

• Ex. Fruit Trees: Late winter or early spring is the ideal time to prune fruit trees. The goal is to establish sturdy branches and an open canopy that gives light and airflow to the ripening fruit.

• Trim Summer non-flowering plants after new growth has completely formed.

• You can also trim lightly throughout the year.

Additionally, add berry bushes to your pruning checklist as well. The ideal size, shape, and age of canes varies for each species. Blueberries, blackberries, grapes, and some raspberries grow fruit on one-yearold growth. Gooseberries and most currants grow the best fruit on 2- or 3-year-old canes, while some varieties of raspberries will fruit on this season’s new canes.

You can prune flowering shrubs that grow their blossoms this season, such as spirea, roses, potentilla, crape myrtle, or butterfly bush. Since they’ll grow new flower buds this year, there is no risk of chopping off your blossoms that are soon to be. So, in contrast, some spring-flowering shrubs, such as lilac, forsythia, and magnolia, already started growing this year’s blossoms in the last gardening season. Wait until those shrubs flower before you prune them.

Bring plants in and dip them in rooting hormone

• Plant them in potting soil or directly in the ground.

• Certain bushes are extremely easy to grow from cuttings, such as elderberries, raspberries, blackberries, gooseberries, figs, and currants.

Fertilize and amend soil

• Plants, like people, can grow without nutritious food. However, also like a human being’s body— the more nutrient dense your soil is— the more nutrient dense/healthy your fruits and vegetables will be; and the more well-nourished your family will be.

• So, add materials to soil to improve its structure, enhance drainage or moisture retention, adjust your soil’s pH, or add nutrients. continued on next page...

March 2026 The Reporter

Ouellette Landscaping Spring is here!

Clean Up Fallen Trees & Limbs Services: Spring clean-up, Garden rototilling, shrubs/hedges removed, small land clearing/overgrown area cutbacks, Brook/ Stream clean outs, and lawn mowing. Poison Ivy removal.

Don’t forget the plant beds that need reshaping and new mulch.

No beating around the bush!

Best prices to fit your budget.

Spring cleanup schedule fills up quickly Call Joe for a free quote today

(401) 323-9553 References available upon request

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The Reporter March 2026 • For example: you could add peat to your soil to improve the soil structure, or you might use compost as a soil amendment to add nutrients and improve your soil’s structure.

• Ex of compost. grass cuttings, food scraps, cardboard eg cereal packets, toilet roll tubes, egg boxes, etc.

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With the vegetable plot still unseeded and the perennials still leafless, it’s the ideal time to feed the soil with compost or aged manure.

Turn your compost pile

• Feed those microbes in the compost by shaking them up and giving them air.

• Afterward, the pile should be left to “cook” from the sun and turned again once it starts to cool.

• Add compost to your weekly or biweekly checklist throughout the gardening season.

Enjoy the beautiful creations you’ve made with all your hard work!

I understand March in New England doesn’t necessarily look like progress with the inconsistent weather— but your effort in your yard now will be a successful investment in the long run. To reiterate what I first said, what you do now: pruning carefully, feeding the soil, repairing winter damage, planning with intention— quietly shapes how your growing season will soon result when the weather is consistently nice out.

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March 2026 The Reporter

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The Reporter March 2026

Building a Birdhouse: A Step-by-Step DIY Process

(Feature Impact) To add charm to your yard, encourage local wildlife and give you a front-row seat to nature, building a birdhouse is a simple weekend project that checks all of those boxes.

Seasoned DIYers and first-timers alike can follow this step-by-step guide to create a functional, welcoming birdhouse.

Step 1: Choose the Right Design

Start by deciding what type of birds you’d like to attract. Different birds prefer different house sizes and entrance types. A simple, classic birdhouse design makes the project beginner-friendly and works well for common backyard birds like wrens, chickadees and bluebirds. In general, plan for at least a 1-1 2/2-inch entrance hole, a 5-by-5-inch interior space and 2 inches or more of roof overhang.

Step 2: Gather Materials and Tools

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Most DIY birdhouses can be built with basic materials and tools you may already have at home, including untreated cedar or pine wood, screws or nails, wood glue, sandpaper and exterior-safe paint as well as a measuring tape, pencil, saw and drill.

Step 3: Measure and Cut Wood

Measure and cut wood to make the front panel, back panel, two side panels, floor and roof. Then sand all edges for smooth assembly.

Step 4: Drill Holes

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Using a hole-saw bit, drill the entrance hole into the front panel. Position it a few inches below the roofline to keep predators out. Next, drill 2-3 small drainage holes in the floor piece to prevent water buildup and help keep the birdhouse dry.

Step 5: Assemble the Birdhouse

Attach the side panels to the back panel using screws or nails. Add the front panel then secure the floor piece, slightly recessed, so rainwater can drain. Attach the roof last, making sure it slopes slightly to allow water to run off.

Step 6: Paint the Exterior

If you plan to paint your birdhouse, stick to neutral, nature-inspired colors. Light browns, soft greens or white help regulate temperature and blend into the environment.

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Step 7: Mount Your Birdhouse

Once dry, place your birdhouse in a quiet, sheltered spot away from heavy foot traffic.

Mount or hang it 5-10 feet off the ground, facing away from prevailing winds.

Visit eLivingtoday.com for more DIY project inspiration.

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March 2026 The Reporter

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The Reporter March 2026

7 Frugal Gardening Tips and Tricks

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(Family Features) Gardening can be a simple way to beautify your yard, relieve stress and save money on your grocery bill, but like any hobby, you can get carried away buying necessary equipment.

Fun, frugal and environmentally friendly, these tricks can help you create a costeffective garden: • Use a yardstick and permanent marker to mark inches and feet on the handle of your rake, shovel or hoe. The next time you plant, simply lay the marked handle along the row to create perfectly spaced holes for seeds.

• Line the bottom of a clay pot with a coffee filter to keep soil from leaking out the bottom.

• Use empty plastic water bottles or clear milk jugs to fill the bottom of large pots.

They reduce the weight of the pot and require less soil to fill.

• To test your seeds to see if they’re still viable for this planting season, place a wet paper towel inside a zip-top bag, drop in 3-4 seeds and wait a week to see if anything grows.

• One way to help prevent weeds is lining your garden with a layer of newspaper.

Just top two or three sheets of newsprint with a layer of pine needles, grass clip-

pings or dried leaves for an eco-friendly and inexpensive weed barrier.

• Keep gardening twine handy. Nail a funnel to your potting bench with the spout pointing downward, feed the twine through and your string will never go missing. For a more portable solution, place a ball of twine inside a canning jar, make a hole in the lid and feed the end of the twine through the hole. Now, you can take twine anywhere, tangle-free.

• There is no need to buy expensive potting systems for starting seedlings. Place several cardboard toilet paper rolls inside a clean plastic clamshell, like those used for premade salads. Fill each cardboard tube with potting soil and plant. Once your seedlings grow too tall for the clamshell, simply tear off the top lid.

Going Beyond Aesthetics: 7 Home Design Trends for 2026

(Feature Impact) Heading into a new year, home design is once again evolving.

Homeowners are blending comfort, personality, sustainability and connections to the outside world this year. More than just aesthetics, these trends are warm, intentional and rooted in real life.

Whether you’re refreshing a room or planning a full-blown makeover, consider

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March 2026 The Reporter

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finds, heirloom pieces and decor that evokes memory - even quilted textiles or classic checkered tiles - styled in fresh, modern ways to add warmth and individuality.

Attention to Statement Details: Small details are getting big attention this year.

Swapping out basic cabinet hardware and lighting fixtures for artisanal, tactile metals can help elevate kitchen cabinets or bathroom vanities, turning them into design statements.

Flexible, Multifunctional Spaces: With hybrid work and lifestyle blending continuing into 2026, rooms should be designed to serve multiple purposes. Reading nooks can double as workstations. Living rooms effortlessly transition from day to night. Adaptable furniture, hidden storage and smart layouts help make multifunctional spaces feel intentional and uncluttered.

Outdoor-Inspired Interiors: The connection to nature grows stronger inside homes with greenery, natural light and materials that echo the outdoors. From indooroutdoor flow to plant-rich spaces that feel alive and tranquil, biophilic design promotes calm, comfort and connection.

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Warm, Earthy Palettes: This year, say goodbye to whites and cool grays. Instead, cozy earth tones like clay, sage, caramel and rich neutrals create a grounded, inviting atmosphere. Refresh walls or cabinetry with these earthy hues or try color-drenching using a single hue in varying tones across walls, trim and ceilings - for a bold new vibe that feels both timeless and modern.

Flowing, Curved Shapes: As homes trend more toward feeling lived-in rather than staged, hard edges and rigid forms are taking a backseat. In 2026, curves are everywhere: soft archways, rounded furniture and curved statement pieces - think circular mirrors or oversized armchairs - create fluid, comforting spaces.

Natural Materials and Textures: Designs this year celebrate materials that age beautifully, like natural stone, reclaimed wood and textiles that tell a story. Consider woven pillows and throws, handmade pottery, textured walls and wood with visible grain to enrich rooms with sensory detail and an artisanal feel.

Personalized Nostalgia: Blend vintage finds with contemporary art to create a space that’s truly your own. That means vintage

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The Reporter March 2026

From the State House Representative Steven S. Howitt Advocates for Utility Bill Cost-Saving Measures for State Ratepayers House Republican Caucus offers series of reforms to energy bill

Boston – State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R-Seekonk) recently joined with Republican colleagues to support a package of reform measures promoting utility rate relief and affordability for Massachusetts residents.

During the February 26 debate on House Bill 5151, An Act relative to energy affordability, clean power and economic competitiveness, members of the House Republican Steven Howitt Caucus put forward a series of proposed amendments aimed at providing financial relief for residential and business customers who are struggling with high energy bills.

Representative Howitt noted that the underlying bill includes some positive provisions but falls short of achieving much-needed affordability goals, particularly in the short term.

In addition to targeting the Mass Save program for reforms, the caucus called for the repeal or delay of costly mandates that drive up energy costs for ratepayers, and seeks limits on public benefits charges assessed on consumers, offering one-time credits and tax deductions to help ratepayers with their energy bills, and expanding sustainable energy source options, particularly those that are less costly and more accessible than some newer technologies.

With most of the caucus amendments rejected during debate, Representative Howitt and colleagues voted against the underlying

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bill, which was engrossed on a vote of 128-27, calling it a missed opportunity to secure meaningful relief for ratepayers.

The following represents examples of some proposed caucus’ amendments in the House: • Mass Save Reforms – House Bill 5151 reduces the budget for Mass Save – an energy efficiency program subsidized by ratepayers on their monthly utility bills – by $1 billion, the caucus proposed additional reforms including: • Prohibiting Mass Save’s administrative costs from exceeding 5% of the amount of funds allocated to program; and • Prohibiting the Department of Public Utilities (DPU) from approving an energy efficiency plan if the total costs are more than 2% greater than the total costs incurred for the previously approved plan.

• Emissions and Clean Energy Mandates – Representative Howitt noted that the caucus addressed some major cost-drivers impacting Massachusetts energy bills by offering proposals to: • Make the state’s energy efficiency investment plans advisory and non-binding through the year 2030 and prohibiting these plans from adversely impacting ratepayers and Massachusetts businesses; • Direct the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EOEEA) to conduct a competitive solicitation for proposals to increase interstate natural gas transmission capacity into the Commonwealth; • Prohibit any entity within EOEEA from adopting or implementing any rule or policy issued by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) and direct the secretary to identify and rescind or amend any regulation that is drawn from the CARB; • Mandate that the enforcement of motor vehicle emissions standards tied to California’s Advanced Clean Car Standards, requiring automakers to sell an increasing share of zero-emission vehicles starting in model year 2026, be delayed by 5 years; • Prohibit state agencies from imposing any regulations, administrative action, or policy implementation related to greenhouse gas emission limits or clean energy unless it has determined that the action shall not affect affordability for ratepayers or competitiveness for Massachusetts businesses; • Strike the mandate of all electric vehicle motor vehicle sales by 2035; • Remove the provision requiring all entities to sell only electric trucks beginning with the next model year; and • Strike the reference that couples Massachusetts vehicle emission policies to that of California.

• Public Benefits Charges – To reduce energy bills for ratepayers, Representative Howitt, with the caucus, offered amendments to: • Allow public benefit energy charges on energy or gas consumption to be applied only to usage during non-peak hours, from 9 PM to 9 AM; • Grant residential customers the ability to opt-out of the net metering recovery surcharge on utility bills if they do not have an interconnected net metering system; and • Impose a 12 consecutive billing months moratorium, during which time electric distribution companies will be prohibited from charging or collecting the public benefit energy charge from retail electric customers, while preventing DPU from deferring, tracking, or allowing any future recovery of the forgone public benefit charge revenue through rate increases, surcharges, reconciliation mechanisms, interest, or any other adjustments.

March 2026 The Reporter One Time Credits and Tax Deductions – To provide more immediate financial relief to ratepayers, the caucus offered amendments to: • Require DPU to issue a one-time credit of $250 to residential ratepayers with a total annual income of $75,000 for individuals or $150,000 for those filing jointly for electric, gas, propane gas, or oil utilities, which will be reflected on their monthly statement at the time of the credit, with automatic eligibility for those participating in qualified means-tested programs like SSI, SNAP, WIC, and MassHealth; • Require DPU to issue a one-time credit of $500 to commercial rate payers for electric, gas, propane gas, or oil utilities, to be reflected on their monthly statement at the time of the credit; and • Establish a tax deduction in an amount equal to what has been paid in electric, gas, propane gas, and oil utilities of up to $10,000, made available to individuals who earn up to $175,000 and joint filers who earn up to $350,000 to remain in effect until December 31, 2029.

Additional Reforms – Representative Howitt supported additional reform measures offered by the caucus, including proposals to: • Prohibit the state from approving a battery storage facility unless the local body has approved the project and given the municipality the authority to establish additional siting, safety, and environmental requirements for battery energy storage facilities, with a requirement that state authorities provide technical assistance to municipalities in evaluating proposed projects; • Allow customers to use another propane company to fill their tank if the company with which they are contracted cannot fill their tank, while also providing legal protections to the customer; • Allow a municipal light plant (MLP) that is providing emergency mutual aid to sell, rent, or lease infrastructure related to the provision of emergency mutual aid, ensuring any employee of an MLP providing emergency mutual aid shall be covered as though performing these duties within the scope of their employment (adopted as part of Consolidated Amendment B on a roll call of 138-16); and • Require the electric rates task force to include legislative and regulatory reform recommendations providing both short-term and long-term rate relief for residential and commercial consumers, along with a comparison of ratepayer affordability in Massachusetts with similarly situated states, including policy, infrastructure and market cost drivers (adopted as part of Consolidated Amendment C on a roll call of 128-26).

• House Bill 5151 now moves to the Senate for its consideration.

Representative Steven S. Howitt Supports Bills Regulating the Use of AI in Political Campaigns

House proposals seek to block deceptive advertising by candidates, PACs

Boston – State Representative Steven S. Howitt, R-Seekonk, recently supported legislation that would promote greater election transparency by regulating the use of artificial intelligence in political campaign advertising.

House Bill 5094, An Act enhancing disclosure requirements for synthetic media in political advertising, and House Bill 5093, An Act to protect against election misinformation, were both given initial approval by the House of Representatives on February 11. The bills were engrossed on votes of 156-0 and 153-3, respectively.

Representative Howitt noted that House Bill 5094 would require that advertising paid for by a political candidate, political party or action committee, or campaign contributor with the intent to influence voters include clear disclaimers if the advertisement uses any audio or video that was generated using artificial intelligence. Violations would be subject to a fine of $1,000.

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Representative Howitt said the proposed changes will help prevent voters from being misled and will allow them to make informed decisions on whether to support a candidate based on reliable, factbased information. Similar language was filed as an amendment by the House Republican Leader’s Office during the Fiscal Year 2025 and Fiscal Year 2026 budget cycles, with the House adopting the amendment as part of its Fiscal Year 2025 spending proposal before it was dropped from the final budget.

During floor debate, the House adopted an amendment to House Bill 5094 offered by House Republican Leadership providing an exemption for radio and television broadcasting stations, including cable and satellite television operators, programmers, producers and mobile applications or streaming services who are paid to broadcast election-related communication.

According to Representative Howitt, House Bill 5093 would prohibit any individual or entity from distributing deceptive audio or visual material with actual malice within 90 days of an election.

Specifically, the bill would apply to any material that: • depicts a candidate with the intent to injure their reputation or deceive a voter into voting for or against the candidate; • concerns the safety or regular operations of an election with the intent to disrupt the electoral process; or • intends to mislead voters about the date, time, place, or methods of voting.

Under the provisions of House Bill 5093, a candidate who is the target of a deceptive audio or video may bring action for general or special damages but must bear the burden of proof that a clear violation occurred under this proposed law. It also authorizes the Attorney General to seek injunctive or other equitable relief when a violation occurs to block the distribution of the deceptive material.

Representative Howitt noted that House Bill 5093 provides an exemption for radio and televisions stations and streaming services that broadcast materially deceptive communications, including as part of an interview or news report, provided they disclose that there are questions about the authenticity of the material. Additional exemptions are provided for website and newspaper content that includes a similar disclosure, and for material that is considered to be satire.

House Bill 5093 and House Bill 5094 will now move to the Senate for its consideration.

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The Reporter March 2026

SPORTS UPDATE SouthCoast Teams Battle Through MIAA State Tournament

By Mikey Alves

As we reach the final stretch of the local winter sports high school season, plenty of teams will be battling it out in the MIAA state playoffs— reaching for Gold like both the U.S women’s and U.S men’s hockey hockey teams just did simultaneously for the first time ever. Now, local programs across the SouthCoast are chasing their own championship dreams, knowing that one hot streak— or one bad night of performance—can decide who survives and who goes home.

Bishop Stang & Dighton-Rehoboth girls co-op hockey team is giving it their absolute all in hopes of booking their second straight trip to the TD Garden for the MIAA State Championship game. The girls were ranked 8th in the MIAA Division 1 MIAA State Rankings heading into the playoff tournament, and took on the 25th seeded Bishop Fenwick on Saturday February 28th in an Alexis Pettinato taking a picture with absolute barn burner of a the team’s winning tradition hard hat and game puck after her GWG sent the hockey game. To ignite the flame in the team’s playoff Spartans to the “Sweet 16.” run, Alexis Pettinato scored the only— game winning goal in overtime to secure a 1-0 victory to send her team to the “Sweet 16” round! The girls will take on the team ranked one spot behind them, #9 ranked North Andover, at 4:30 P.M. on Monday, March 2nd at home again in Hetland Arena.

While the Somerset-Berkley & DRS (Dighton-Rehoboth/ Seekonk) co-op boys hockey team’s season has ended their regular season 9-10-1— going 1-3-1 in their final five games— the Raiders managed to squeeze their way into the MIAA D2 State Tournament as the #32 seeded team. They took on a dominant 19-1 Canton at Metropolis Ponky Rink in Canton on Saturday night, February 28th— but fell 9-0 to the Canton Bulldogs. The Raiders also met Canton in the first round of the 2018 MIAA playoffs with Canton skating by with an 11-0 victory. As a matter of fact, the Canton Bulldogs went on to win the MIAA D2 State Championship the next year in 2019, putting up an insane undefeated 25-0 season to claim the state title. Despite many great performances from the team in its 2nd year as co-op hockey program, the Raiders have struggled with consistency throughout most of the season. Their last two regular season games came against two always tough opponents— Dartmouth and Holliston— but they’ve had strong wins over key rivals like Taunton, Bourne, Plymouth North, and Apponoquet. Under their first year with nearly 28 year old head coach Justin Couture, this Raiders hockey team showed plenty of promise for a successful future that is to come very soon.

Swooping over to the Dighton-Rehoboth Falcons boys basketball team, they ended their regular season with a record of 11-9, and even though the team lost 61-79 to Medfield Sachems in the consolation round of the Warrior Classic— that didn’t matter.

The boys still earned their way into the MIAA state tournament, and D-R’s star senior Josh Reidy put up an impressive 30 points against Medfield. Reidy helped lead his team to the MIAA Division 3 tournament as the 26th-seeded team. The Falcons took on the #38 ranked North Middlesex in the preliminary round on Saturday

February 28th. Even with Reidy and Maddex Mendoza putting up 19 points a piece, they lost 55-67 to end the team’s season. Reidy actually transferred to D-R from Somerset-Berkley as a junior, right before the SB Raiders basketball team won their first MIAA State Championship Title since all the way back to 1954; Reidy has made a significant impact on this Falcons boys basketball team.

On the D-R girls side of the court, this young squad finished their season with a 9-11 record, ending the season on a high note with a decisive 52-23 win over Fairhaven. The girls also finished as the 38th ranked MIAA Division 3 girls basketball team. Former Bishop Connolly basketball captain Michaela Deady was in her first season as the team’s head coach, doing her absolute best to build up this young program of majority underclassmen players for a prosperous future.

Going across towns, the Seekonk boys basketball team finished their season at 9-11 while going 4-2 in the month of February. The team started the first half of their season at 3-8— visible improvements were made on the court with a much better second half of their season. The boys last game of the season came with a strong comeback victory, taking down Norton 67-61 in exciting overtime fashion to reclaim the Willow Cup. Elliott Baldizar led the Warriors with 31 points, making 6 three pointers from the field. While Gavin Pereira had 15 points & 12 assists, and Josh Bien had 8 points and 7 rebounds.

Seekonk boys basketball senior night banners Javi Borges (#2, far left), Cole Arruda (#3), Gabe Delmastro (#5, inside left), Josh Giuseffi (#14, inside right), Josh Bien (#15), Sean Crowe (#24, far right.)

The girls Warriors basketball team finished their regular season 14-6. The girls have had lengthy win streaks this season including a seven game win streak in January, then carrying a four game win streak into the beginning of February. They were ranked as the 25th seeded MIAA Division 3 team going into the state tournament, and faced off against the 45th ranked Monomoy Sharks Thursday, February 26th in the preliminary round— they took down the Sharks 40-33. Then, the girls met #8 ranked Pentucket Regional in the Round of 32, unfortunately losing a close battle to the Panthers 3340 ending their season; a successful season for the Lady Warriors basketball team to say the least.

Additionally, a couple of weeks ago the Lady Warriors had stellar performances and results in the school’s pool and track competitions: Lydia Craft (3-times), Emily Tonino, Bonnie Arrigo, Avery Abreu, Hayden Robinson, and Julianna Dutra (2-times) all placed first in at least one of their events earning themselves a Divisional MIAA State Championship title! Senior Julianna Dutra nearly carried Seekonk to the team title with her double win in the 55 dash (7.34) and 300 m (41.19). Senior Hayden Robinson added a victory in the 1,000 m (3:02.08) for the Warriors.

March 2026 The Reporter

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Seekonk’s Hayden Robinson standing on the #1 podium spot after her victory in the 1,000 m indoor track meet.

Seekonk girls pool team with winning medals after the meet.

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Seekonk girls basketball roster photo.

Seekonk Little League is welcoming new sponsors for our upcoming season.

Sponsors will receive a business sign with their business information, hung in the outfield at one of our fields.

Any businesses looking to help support our future Hall of Famers, please contact Lindsay Nichols, Fundraising Manager, at Fundraising@SeekonkLittleLeague.com.

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The Reporter March 2026

Seekonk D2 States 3rd with 4 Swimmers The Seekonk Lady Warriors delivered an outstanding performance at the Division 2 Massachusetts State Championships, finishing 3rd out of 32 teams overall.

The meet began with the 200 Medley Relay, where Bonnie Arrigo, Lydia Craft, Emily Tonino, and Avery Abreu placed 2nd with a time of 1:50.93 - breaking the Seekonk High School record for the second weekend in a row.

In the 200 IM, Lydia Craft captured the state title with a personal best and new school record time of 2:05.58. Emily Tonino added a 5th-place finish (2:17.71), and Avery Abreu placed 8th, putting three Seekonk swimmers on the podium in the same event.

Bonnie Arrigo earned 3rd place in the 100 Butterfly with a personal best time of 59.72, while Emily Tonino also medaled, finishing 6th in 1:01.65.

In the 100 Freestyle, Avery Abreu scored valuable team points with a 10th-place finish in 57.36.

Arrigo continued her strong meet with a 5th-place finish in the 100 Backstroke (1:01.25).

Lydia Craft dominated the 100 Breaststroke, winning the state championship in 1:05.18 with a new personal best and another school record.

The meet concluded with the 400 Freestyle Relay. In an intense final 2 legs of the relay Bonnie Arrigo, Avery Abreu, Emily Tonino, and Lydia Craft captured 1st place with a 3:41.25, resetting the school record once again.

Collectively, these four swimmers placed in the top 10 in every event they entered and earned 15 total medals.

Seekonk has put together an incredible two-week postseason run - setting multiple school records, finishing runner-up at South Sectionals, and placing 3rd at the Division 2 State Championships - all with just four Over 30 Years Experience in the Local Community athletes competing.

We are incredibly proud of this team’s EST. 1994 determination and accomplishments this season and look forward to what’s ahead.

GO LADY WARRIORS!!

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Above photos: swimmers with their medals

March 2026 The Reporter

Girls Basketball

Beckwith Middle School

Boys Basketball

67

The 2025-2026 Beckwith Middle School Girls Basketball Team captured their second consecutive Massasoit League Championship. They finished this season with a 17 and 1 overall record and a perfect 16 and 0 record in Massasoit League play. The girls continued this season right where they left off last season and continued their dominance through their hard work and cohesiveness with new and returning groups of players!!

We would like to wish a special farewell to our fantastic group of graduating 8th graders: Natalia Regan, Kamilia Garcia, Hayleigh Guthrie, Cecelia Oliveira, and Zoya Holowka. Your leadership helped to grow and guide this team through an outstanding season!!

We wish you all the best in High School next season!! Go Raiders!!!

The Beckwith Middle School Boys Basketball team showed tremendous improvement throughout the season, and their hard work truly paid off down the stretch. The team had a great time together while competing with determination and pride in the Massasoit League.

We wish the very best of luck to our 8th graders who played their final game for Beckwith: Noah Beauregard, Chase Moniz, Keegan Sellers, Rickard Karvelas, and Zachory Hardmon. Thank you for your leadership, commitment, and the example you set for our younger players.

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68

The Reporter March 2026

Food & Dining Guide Easy, Approachable Solutions for At-Home Lenten Meals

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(Feature Impact) Lent has long been a season of tradition and reflection, and it can also be an opportunity to introduce your family to exciting new flavors that may become staples in your kitchen. “For many families, Lent often brings a shift at the dinner table - and this year, parents are turning it into an opportunity to try something new,” said Diana Rice, child nutritionist and registered dietitian. “When food feels approachable, it lowers stress for everyone. Familiar flavors help kids say ‘yes’ more often, and those positive moments can make seafood a feel-good part of family meals during Lent and beyond.”

This Lent, swap “giving up” for “try this” with more approachable frozen seafood solutions and family-friendly recipes at SeaPak.com.

One-Pot Creamy Shrimp Scampi Prep: 5 minutes ~ Cook: 25 minutes ~ Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 package (12 ounces) SeaPak Shrimp Scampi • 1 1/4 cups half-and-half or milk • 1 1/4 cups chicken stock

• 8 ounces linguine noodles • 6 cups fresh spinach • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese • 4 lemon wedges

Directions:

1. In large, high-sided saute pan, add shrimp and cook according to package directions.

Remove shrimp to bowl and keep warm.

2. In same pan with scampi sauce, stir in half-and-half and stock. Bring to low boil. Add pasta. Cook, stirring occasionally, until pasta is cooked al dente, 8-10 minutes.

3. Stir in spinach and cook just until beginning to wilt. Stir reserved shrimp into pan.

4. To serve, divide shrimp scampi between four bowls and top each with grated Parmesan.

Serve with lemon wedges.

Butterfly Shrimp Bruschetta

Prep: 15 minutes ~ Cook: 15 minutes ~ Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 package (9 ounces) SeaPak Jumbo Butterfly Shrimp • 1 baguette • 3 garlic cloves, divided

• 6 tablespoons olive oil, divided • 3 cups grape or cherry tomatoes, seeded and finely diced • 1/3 cup chopped basil, plus more garnish • salt & pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 425 F. Bake shrimp according to package directions and keep warm.

2. Slice baguette to match number of shrimp.

Rub one garlic clove over one side of each slice of bread. Brush garlic-rubbed sides with 3 tablespoons olive oil. Set aside.

3. Finely dice remaining garlic.

4. In medium mixing bowl, stir tomatoes, remaining olive oil, diced garlic and 1/3 cup chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper, to taste, and set aside.

5. In large, hot skillet, working in batches, add baguette slices oil sides down and cook until browned around edges. Remove from pan.

6. Top each baguette slice with small spoonful of tomato mixture and one shrimp.

Garnish with basil leaf.

Source: SeaPak

March 2026 The Reporter

69

Manage Busy Spring Schedules with Simple, Nutritious Bowls (Feature Impact) When jam-packed calendars and seemingly constant takeout orders get you down, diving into a fresh way to rethink homecooked meals can get you and your loved ones into a better-for-you routine.

Close your favorite food delivery app and instead break out the bowls for simple yet nutritious recipes that are equal parts filling and fresh. Easily prepped ahead of time, these dishes provide powerful protein and flavor without the hassle. An added bowl-inspired bonus: These family-friendly recipes can be personalized for taste preferences.

Rethink your family’s menu with more quick, nutritious recipes to alleviate the stress of hectic schedules by visiting DudaFresh.com.

Chicken and Rice Bowls with Peanut Sauce Recipe courtesy of The Produce Moms Prep: 7 mins ~ Cook: 5 mins ~ Servings: 2

Creamy Peanut Sauce:

• 1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice • 2 teaspoons rice vinegar • 1 teaspoon honey • 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil

Bowls:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil • 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken • 1 cup cooked brown or jasmine rice • 1 cup Dandy celery, julienned • 1 cup shredded carrot • 1/2 medium English cucumber, sliced • 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, coarsely chopped • lime wedges, for serving

• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling • fresh herbs, for garnish

Directions:

To make tzatziki: Mix yogurt, celery, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic and walnuts, if desired. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Stir well. Chill.

To assemble bowls: In two bowls, layer greens and cooked quinoa evenly. Top with grilled chicken.

Spoon 1/4 cup hummus on side of each bowl. Add olives, 2-3 tablespoons tzatziki and drizzle with olive oil.

Sprinkle with fresh herbs.

Source: Duda Farm Fresh Foods

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Directions:

To prepare peanut sauce: In small bowl, whisk soy sauce, lime juice, rice vinegar and honey. Add peanut butter and sesame oil. Whisk vigorously until sauce is completely smooth and creamy.

Set aside.

To prepare bowls: In nonstick 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil until simmering. Add shredded chicken and about 3 tablespoons peanut sauce. Stir constantly to coat chicken and heat through, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

To assemble rice bowls: In deep serving bowls, add cooked rice. Top with warm chicken covered in peanut sauce. Arrange celery, carrot and cucumber around chicken. Top with peanuts.

Drizzle remaining peanut sauce over bowls. Serve with lime wedges to squeeze over bowls.

Greek-Inspired Power Bowls Recipe courtesy of Anastasiia de la Cruz

Prep: 20 min ~ Cook: 15 min ~ Serve: 2

Celery Tzatziki:

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• 1 cup plain, full-fat Greek yogurt • 1/2 cup finely chopped Dandy celery • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice • 1 small garlic clove, finely grated • 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts (optional) • salt and pepper to taste

Hours: Sun-Thurs 11:30-8pm; Fri-Sat 11:30-9pm

• 2 cups mixed greens • 1 1/3 cups cooked, whole-grain quinoa • 2 grilled chicken breasts (6 oz each), sliced • 1/2 cup hummus • 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, halved

431 Winthrop Street, Rte 44,Taunton MA • 508-823-8664 1666 Diamond Hill Rd, Cumberland RI • 401-305-3916 520 Foundry Street, Easton MA• 508-297-0327 263 Shears St, Wrentham, MA • (774) 847-9308 www.lafamiliarestaurants.com

Bowls:

70

The Reporter March 2026

In Rememberance Diane Margaret Begin Diane Margaret Begin of Seekonk, MA passed away on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the age of 78. She was born on September 21, 1947, in Attleboro, MA, where she grew up.

She worked in the finance industry as a clerk for various financial institutions over the course of her career.

In addition, while she was able, she enjoyed gardening, crocheting, knitting, and other crafts. She was also actively involved in spirituality and religion. And, she was committed to caring for her family and Diane Margaret Begin neighborhood.

She was preceded in death by her parents George H. Blade and Margaret Blade, brother George Blade, and husband Albert L. Begin.

Additionally, she is survived by her daughter Charlene Murray and granddaughter Alexia Murray. She is also survived by: her brothers Ron Blade, David Blade, Michael Blade, several nieces and nephews and their children.

A lasting memory that is held by those who knew her back in the 1980s was when she rode her motorcycle, often with her daughter on the backseat.

The family would like to thank the caregiving teams at Crestwood Nursing Home and Rehabilitation in Warren, RI; Saint Anne’s Hospital and Beacon Hospice in Fall River, MA; and the First Christian Congregational Church in Swansea, MA, for the care and compassion they showed our loved one in her final days.

Funeral services are scheduled for Sunday, April 19, 2026, at 1:00pm at the First Christian Congregational Church of Swansea, 1113 GAR Highway, Swansea, MA 02777. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in her honor to Heifer International at: www.heifer.org.

Diane is fondly remembered as a kindhearted and generous person. We will miss her.

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I will not forget you, for I have inscribed you on the palms of my hands. ~Isaiah 49:15-16

March 2026 The Reporter

Mary Frances Tobin Mary Frances Tobin, 91 of Rehoboth, passed away on Wednesday, February 25, 2026. She was the wife of the late Arthur F. Tobin.

Born in Newport, RI. She was a daughter of the late Manuel and Mary (Silvia) Lawrence, and the stepdaughter of the late Manuel L. Mello.

Mary Frances served on many committees, boards, and organizations in her community. The Senior Center Building Committee, Rehoboth-Anawan Lions Club, Rehoboth Village Cemetery Board. She also had enjoyed many years as an elected member of the Republican Town Committee, was a past President of the Rehoboth friends of the elderly. She enjoyed reading, crossword puzzles, gardening and keeping up on political news. Mary Frances was known for baking the best apple pies.

She leaves four children, Michael Tobin of Apollo Mary Frances Tobin Beach, FL, Brian Tobin and his husband Bill Short of Mount Washington, MA, Laura Mercer of Rehoboth, MA, Jason Tobin and his partner Lynn Sabourin Chernasky of Burrillville, RI, three grandchildren, Drury Mercer, Lily Mercer, Abigail Tobin, and her daughter-in-law, Kristin Cotter. The family would like to thank Mary Furtado, and Melissa Earle for their companionship and assistance with our mom. She was the mother of the late Matthew Tobin, mother-in-law of the late David Mercer.

Services will be private. Burial will be in Rehoboth Village Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Rehoboth Food Pantry, 51 Winthrop St Unit 2, Rehoboth, MA 02769. www.rehobothfoodpantryma.org

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IN LOVING MEMORY OF OUR PRECIOUS JUNE

June (Enos) Sotiropoulos 1965 - 2026

Death Notices Rehoboth

• George Battle Delany, 79, of Rehoboth, Massachusetts, died peacefully at home on January 21, 2026.

Seekonk • George R. LaFlamme91, passed away January 26, 2026.

• Myrtle E. “Tudy” Cole, 82, of Seekonk, died peacefully on January 27, 2026 at Sturdy Memorial Hospital.

• Robert V. “Bob” Kingston, 79, a lifelong resident of Seekonk, until his relocation to Mississippi in 2019, died January 28, 2026.

• Arthur “Archie” Mello, 83, passed away peacefully at home on February 9, 2026.

• Francis T. Cordeiro, Jr., 79, passed away on Tuesday, February 10, 2026. Military veteran.

Please email obituaries to michaela@reportertoday for pricing and information.

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The Reporter March 2026

Back Pain!! – When Should You Be Concerned?

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March 2026 The Reporter

73

People In The News Local 17-Year-Old Launches Summer Youth Production of NEWSIES JR. in Seekonk Seventeen-year-old Juliana Centracchio of Seekonk, a student at Seekonk High School, has created a new Summer Theatre Program — and this year’s production is NEWSIES JR. You may remember Juliana from this Seekonk Reporter story!

Juliana, a young playwright, community activist, and standout performer in the local theatre program, launched this initiative to expand access to affordable performing arts opportunities for children in the Seekonk area. Her leadership is bringing together young performers for a meaningful, confidence-building summer experience.

Summer Theatre Program – NEWSIES JR. Program Dates: June 22 – August 2

• Location: Seekonk High School Theater • Hours: Monday-Friday; 5:00 - 8:00 PM ET • Auditions: June 22; 5:00 PM ET • Rehearsals: June 23 - July 31 • Performances: July 31, August 1, and August 2 • Activities: Acting, Stage production, lighting, directing, costuming & makeup, and so much more!

• Ages: 9–14 (capped at 50 children) • Program Cost: $125/child • Show Tickets: $15 general admission • Registration: https://forms.gle/wZk9XSDsJmYaxmRf7

Contact: seekonktheatrebooster@gmail.com

Interview with Juliana

Information below based upon an interview with Juliana Centracchio, a 17 year old junior at Seekonk High School and Founding Member & Director of the Summer Theatre Program.

How did you come up with the idea for the summer theater program?

Juliana was inspired to establish the Summer Theatre Program from her own experiences in theater, along with the success of other programs, such as the summer program at Case High School (her youngest sibling participated last year!).

Juliana recognized how meaningful it was to have opportunities to explore art through theater. While some students get to experience that in school plays, some kids don’t have that chance and many want to do even more theater beyond the school walls. Juliana collaborated with friends and classmates Alexandra Shields, Vincent Lastrina, and Willow Wilcox to create the Sum-

mer Theatre Program. All four are juniors at Seekonk High School, active in the theater program, and will lead the Summer Theatre Program together.

The Summer Theatre Program lets others discover the magic of the stage.

What is the main goal or vision behind the program?

The program is designed to give students ages 9–14 around MA and RI a higher-level theater experience than they might receive during the regular school year or had even thought about doing before. The goal is to provide comprehensive training in acting, singing, and dancing while exposing students to the broader creative process behind a production. Juliana wants participants to leave with stronger performance skills, greater confidence, and a deeper understanding of how theater works as a whole.

Can you tell me more about your background in theater?

Juliana has been involved in theater since she was very young, performing in productions from the time she was a little kid. What began as an early love of the stage developed into a deep commitment throughout high school, where she not only performed but also stepped into leadership roles within the theater community.

In October 2025, she made her playwriting and directing debut with South of 14th Street, marking an important milestone in her creative journey. Juliana serves as the Student Director for the Seekonk High Theater Program and, when not directing, enjoys acting in the productions.

Beyond the stage, Juliana has strengthened her storytelling skills through academic programs. She has attended summer programs at Brown University, Smith College, Columbia University, and others for creative writing, experiences that have further developed her voice as a writer and deepened her understanding of character, structure, and narrative.

Some recent roles Juliana has stepped into include Greta Olhsson in Murder on the Orient Express, Fletcher in Freaky Friday, Annie in Annie Jr., and Kurt in The Sound of Music (showing March 6 and 8).

Juliana’s years of performance experience, formal training in writing, and hands-on directing work have prepared her to collaboratively create and lead this summer’s production with three classmates. Together, the Summer Theatre Program will show other kids the power of both artistic vision and mentorship.

What will participants gain?

The summer program is designed to go beyond a typical school theater experience.

Students will receive intensive, higher-level instruction in acting, singing, and dancing, with focused skill development alongside preparing for a performance. In addition to rehearsing the show, participants will learn about the collaborative and creative process behind mounting a full production. There’s so much that goes into creating a show beyond what people see with the acting, and Summer Theatre Program participants will get to have a hand in it all.

The Summer Theatre Program is fully student-run and student-led. Our leadership team — Juliana, Vinny, Willow, and Alex — will be leading the full production from opening casting to closing clean out. Plus, we’ll serve as mentors and support throughout the program to answer questions, guide participants, and make the show a success.

In addition, members of the Seekonk High School Theater Company will manage the technical and production elements, overseeing backstage responsibilities and technical execution.

Program participants, ages 9–14, will serve as the cast of Newsies Jr. From being the actors on stage to set development, makeup, choreography, character development, and more, we’ll engage in creative practices that dig into all the details of play production. This will give each participant a broader understanding of how all aspects of theater come together to create a successful production.

Finally, the Summer Program offers students and families flexibility because not every kid will be needed at every session. A schedule will be customized to the needs of each child, based on the requirements of the stage and personal availability.

Why Newsies Jr.?

Newsies Jr. was chosen as the featured musical because it offers strong opportunities across multiple performance disciplines.

Plus, it’s an incredible show! The show includes dynamic acting roles, high-energy choreography, and powerful vocal numbers, making it an ideal production for students with a wide range of strengths and interests.

The program will focus on all three core areas of musical theater (acting, singing, and dancing) providing well-rounded performance training while helping students develop and refine their individual talents.

To ensure a high-quality experience and meaningful attention for each participant, enrollment is capped at 50 students.

74

The Reporter March 2026

University News University of Alabama Fall 2025 Deans List

Tuscaloosa, AL -- Cecilia Neary was named to The University of Alabama Deans List for Fall Semester 2025.

Kegan Mcgonigle of Rehoboth Earns Fall 2025 Dean’s List Honors at American International College

Springfield, MA -- American International College (AIC) student Kegan Mcgonigle has earned Dean’s List honors for the Fall 2025 semester. Mcgonigle, of Rehoboth, is majoring in Health Science.

Clark University’s Fall 2025 Dean’s List

Worcester, MA -- The following local residents were named to Clark University’s Fall 2025 Dean’s List: Rehoboth: Aidan J. Benjamin, Hazel A. Thomas Seekonk: Ali E. Faria

Western New England University Fall 2025 Dean’s List

Salve Regina University Dean’s List for Fall 2025 Semester

Newport, RI -- The following students were named to the Dean’s List during the fall 2025 academic semester at Salve Regina University.

Rehoboth: Christia Assi, Genevieve Brown Seekonk: Madison Mirabile, Hannah Tadros, Connor Terrien

Students Named to President’s List at Plymouth State University

Plymouth, NH -- The following local students have been named to the President’s List: Rehoboth: Julia Boivin majoring in Marketing.

Seekonk: Lauren Kerwin majoring in Environmental Science & Policy; Owen Tracey majoring in Business Administration.

Andrew Eklund has been Named to Western New England University’s President’s List for the Fall 2025 semester.

Springfield, MA -- Western New England University is proud to announce the outstanding academic achievements of nearly 800 students named to the Fall 2025 semester Dean’s List including: Seekonk: Christopher Strycharz, Taegan Carvalho

Springfield, MA -- Western New England University (WNE) is proud to announce that Andrew Eklund of Seekonk, MA has been named to the President’s List for the Fall 2025 semester. Eklund is one of nearly 600 students to achieve this mark of academic excellence.

Worcester Polytechnic Institute Announces Fall 2025 Dean’s List

Harrison Taraian named to Mississippi State University’s fall 2025 Deans’ List

Rehoboth: • Mackenzie Clark, class of 2029, majoring in Biology and Biotechnology • Nicholas DeCilio, class of 2029, majoring in Computer Science Seekonk: • Greyson Baldizar, class of 2029, majoring in Civil Engineering • Marcel Gendreau, class of 2028, majoring in Civil Engineering • Alexander Hardro, class of 2028, majoring in Computer Science and Interactive Media and Game Development - Technology • Joseph Mello, class of 2027, majoring in Electrical and Computer Engineering

Plymouth State University Dean’s List

Plymouth, NH-- William Kimmell of Rehoboth, MA, has been named to the Plymouth State University Dean’s List for the Fall 2025 semester. Kimmell is majoring in Accounting at Plymouth State.

Mississippi State, MS -- Harrison Taraian, of Rehoboth, was named to the Mississippi State University fall 2025 Deans’ List.

Madeline Rossi Named to Mississippi State University’s Fall 2025 President’s List

Mississippi State, MS -- Madeline Rossi, of Rehoboth, MA, was named to the Mississippi State University fall 2025 President’s List.

More than 7,500 University of Rhode Island students named to Fall 2025 Dean’s List

Kingston, RI -- The University of Rhode Island is pleased to announce that several area students have been named to its Fall 2025 Dean’s List. Among them are: Rehoboth: Donny Azar, Pilar BeermanRodriguez, Emma Chapman, Jack Guddie, Vivian Vieira Seekonk: Jillian Cabral, Ethan Clarke, Riley Connell, Giuliano Cozzo, Sarah Douglas, Ethan Goudreau, Nathan Hill, Nick

Lehourites, Ryan Lopes, Jazlyn Monteiro, Annissa Ohara, Kayla Owens, Lyla Owens, Felicia Paniagua, Joseph Perez, Cullen Steitz

Silveira Earns All-Conference Accolade on Day 2 of NE10 Championship

Worcester, Mass. - Senior Ashley Silveira captured all-conference honors while placing third in the one-meter diving on Friday to highlight the Saint Michael’s College men’s and women’s swimming & diving teams’ second day at the four-day Northeast 10 Conference Championship at Worcester Polytechnic Institute’s (WPI) Sports & Recreation Center.

Hamilton College Fall 2025 Dean’s List

Clinton, NY -- Dominic Mauretti, of Rehoboth (02769), has been named to the Dean’s List at Hamilton College for the fall 2025 semester.

Local Residents Named to Simmons University Dean’s List

Boston, Mass. - The following local residents have been named to the 2025 fall semester dean’s list at Simmons University in Boston.

Abby Sousa, Kaylah Tuon, Sophia Wilcox

Fall 2025 Dean’s List at Saint Michael’s College

Colchester, VT - The following local resident was named to the Dean’s List at Saint Michael’s College for the Fall 2025 semester.

Students who complete at least 12 credits of classes and achieve a grade point average of at least 3.5 in a particular semester are cited on the Dean’s List for that semester.

• Wren M. Seccareccia of Rehoboth • Ashley R. Silveira of Seekonk

News from Rivier University

Kelsey Bain, of Rehoboth, was named to the National Field Hockey Coaches Association All Academic Team and Rivier University Dean’s List for the 2025 Fall semester.

Local Students Named to Holy Cross’ Fall 2025 Dean’s List

Worcester, MA -- College of the Holy Cross congratulates the students named to the Fall 2025 Dean’s List for outstanding academic achievement during the spring semester of the 2025-26 academic year.

The following local students made the list: • Kate Leinson of Seekonk, 2026 • Hailey McCracken of Rehoboth, 2029

March 2026 The Reporter

75

American Legion Post 302 Public Events • Try our Fish & Chips or Specials of the Week – every Thursday 4:00 till 7:00 P.M. & Fridays 4:00 – 7:30PM and Saturdays with a Band ONLY 6:00-7:30PM.Take Outs are welcome – call in your order in early for pickup at 508-252-9079 • “QUEEN OF HEARTS” drawing every Friday night at 8:00 PM • Karaoke Nite - 2nd & last Friday of every month • Prize Bingo - 4th Sunday of every month at 5:00PM • NEW POOL TABLE Come and have some fun • 2nd Sunday of Every Month, “All you can Eat Breakfast” 7:30am – 10:30am - Bar opens at 10!

• Now serving a hot dog with a purchased drink on Sundays & Mondays only • Check us out on Facebook - Photos since 2018 posted by our patrons… https://www.facebook.com/pages/American-LegionHall/258235277540573

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

Upcoming Events

• March 14th, 2023 – Saturday - 5:00 - 7:00 P.M. – American Legions Annual Corn Beef & Cabbage – $20.00 per plate – You don’t want to pass this up! No Walk-Ins – Take Out Orders are welcome e-mail Jake at speedyjake@aol.com Call 315-415-2277 https://www.facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/ • March 14th, 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! https:// www.facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/ • March 20th, 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 • March 21st, 2026 – Saturday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M., TOURCH 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 the Electronic Dart https:// open.spotify.com/artist/57RIFB8RMODxF0PXg6vVjT?si=%20 HGPY_GMWTAioT8epLo0GWg&nd=1 • March 22nd, 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! https://www.facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/ • March 27th, 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! https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/ • March 27th, 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! https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/ • March 28th, 2026 – Satyrday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M., Ghost Cat Rodeo presents Classical Rock & County Music - No Cover Charge! – Food Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back and enjoy https://www.facebook. com/ghostcatrodeo/ • April 3rd, 2026 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M., – Live Music performed by Notorious Jones Entertainment with Classic Rock Music – Food Specials of the Week – Drinks – Dancing – Pool Table & have a GREAT TIME! https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100063368911454

• April 4th, 2026 – Saturday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M., ***JUKEBOX HEROS*** 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 • April 7th, 2026 – Tuesday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M., TREMONT BAND – ***SPECIAL BAND PERFORMANCE – AFTER ELECTIONS PARTY *** 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 https://www. facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/ • April 10th, 2026 – Saturday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M., Live Karaoke performed by JAZZY JILL 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! Or Play Pool!! https://www.facebook. com/groups/657024961125913/ • April 11th, 2026 – Saturday - 4:00 -6:00 P.M., ”REHOBOTH PEOPLE HAVE A HEART” PRIME RIB DINER $45.00 donation 508-243-4160 RehobothPeopleHaveHeart@gmail.com or Facebook @RehobothPeopleHaveHeart • April 11th, 2026 – Saturday – 7:00 -10-P.M., Little Miss and the Boom Band - Modern Music – Vintage Style Acoustic –– Drinks – Entertainment, Dancing so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! https://www.facebook.com/LittleMissAndTheBoomBand • April 12th, 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! https:// www.facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/

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The Reporter March 2026

Business Directory CATEGORY

COMPANY NAME

PAGE

CATEGORY

COMPANY NAME

PAGE

Antiques/Cash for Gold Americana Auction

22

Credit Union

Community & Teachers Credit Union 50

Antiques/Cash for Gold Americana Auction

36

Dentist

David C. Zaluski, D.D.S.

50

Antiques/Coin Shop

Warren Exchange

78

Dentist

George Family Orthodontics

15

Art Supplies/Framing

Gregory D. Dorrance, Co.

18

Dentist

Lisa Daft DMD & Associates

31

Assisted Living

Swan Brook Assisted Living

14

Dentist

Seekonk Dental Associates, Inc.

10

Attorney

Laurie P. Mullen, Attorney

38

Dentist

Tourister Dental Associates

67

Attorney

Law Office of Luke P. Travis

27

Dog Training

Pooch Pawsitive

48

Attorney

Stephen E. Navega

29

Dumpsters/Waste Displ Dutra Disposal & Recycling

22

Auto Body

A-1 Custom Auto Body

80

Electrician

Neal Bellavance Electric

62

Auto Body

Sousa’s Auto Body

52

Events

Celtic Psychic Fair

33

Auto Repairs

New England Tire

3

Events

Rehoboth Have-a-Heart

7

Bed & Breakfast

Anawan Bed & Breakfast

12

Events

Rehoboth Town Events Committee

33

Bird Feed & Supplies

Wild Birds Unlimited

58

Events

TEN31 Productions

36

Building Contractor

A.M. Carpentry

61

Farm

Osamequin Farm

36

Building Contractor

Nerney Construction

54

Feed & Garden Store

Bay State Pet & Garden Supply

57

Candidate - Rehoboth

Rehoboth Democratic Town Comm

13

Fence Installation

Fence Tech

61

Candidate - Rehoboth

Rehoboth Republican Town Comm

10

Financial Advisor

Island Time Financial Services

53

Candidate - Rehoboth

Rehoboth Republican Town Comm

11

Fitnes-Kickboxing

Aura Kickboxing

40

Candidate - Seekonk

Elizabeth A. Elmasian

21

Fitness

Anytime Fitness

42

Candidate - Seekonk

Michelle A. Hines

20

Fitness - Training

House of Fitness Rehoboth

41

Candidate - Seekonk

Robert Archambault

21

Flea Market

Seekonk Flea Market

Carpet Cleaning

Earle’s Carpet Cleaning

30

Flooring - All Types

Earle Dias Interiors

61

Carpet Cleaning

M & S Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning 6

Flooring - Wood

David J. Ledoux Hardwood Floors

37

Child Care

Twin Oaks Farm Learning Center

47

Fuel - Oil

Al’s Quality Oil Co.

26

Chimney Services

Kenny’s Masonry & Chimney Sweep 77

Fuel - Oil

E & V Oil Co.

80

Chiropractor

New Hope Family Chiropractic

72

Fuel - Propane

Propane Plus

79

Christmas Trees

Pleasant Street Family Farm

12

Funeral Home

Hathaway Funeral Home

70

Church

Rehoboth Baptist Church

38

Funeral Home

J.H. Williams & Co. Funeral Home

70

Church

St. Mary of the Bay

39

Funeral Home

Silva Funeral Home

71

Cigar Night

Rehoboth Lions Club

45

Furniture/Upholstery

Masterson Furniture

8

Cleaning Service

Ada’s Cleaning Services

8

Garden Center

J & L Landscaping & Garden Center 56

Cleaning Service

Debbie’s House Cleaning

30

Garden Center

Redwood Nursery

59

Comic Strip

“Sour Grapes” by Tim Jones

51

Gift Shop

Casa Ideal

39

TITLE 5 INSPECTION Assessments $25 • &Voluntary Consulting

Discount on Title V Inspection

• Septic Systems • Cesspools

* Not affiliated with any septic system installation or pumping co.

Professional Inspection Services - Est.1995 -

Call Steven Drew • 508-667-4025 MassDEP Approved Title 5 Inspector

No Mess!

We Hand-Dig

Commercial & Residential

Year-Round Service

March 2026 The Reporter CATEGORY

COMPANY NAME

77

PAGE

CATEGORY

COMPANY NAME

PAGE

Health & Wellness

Crystal Hands Energy Healing

71

Plumbing & Heating

Sine Plumbing & Heating

78

Home Improvements

MH Home Services

21

Powerwashing

SouthCoast Pressure Wash

54

Insurance Agency

Frazao Insurance

26

Private School

The Wheeler School

47

Jewelers

M.R.T. Co., Inc.

34

Railings

G. Mennucci & Son Inc.

59

Jewelers

Plante Jewelers

9

Real Estate

Blu Sky Real Estate

2

Junk Removal

AOL Enterprises

27

Real Estate

Heather Feid, Realtor

16

Kitchen/Bath Design

Infinity Kitchens

4

Real Estate

Melissa Casey

32

Kitchen/Bath Design

Johnson Design

55

Real Estate

ReMax River’s Edge Agents

23

Landscape Service

Green Care Landscaping

23

Real Estate

Russell Weddell, Real Estate Broker 49

Landscape Service

Lawnscapes

31

Real Estate

Vicki Doran

24

Landscape Service

Ouellette Landscaping

55

Recycling

Seekonk Recycling Committee

25

Landscape Service

Superior Lawn Care

60

Restaurant

La Familia

69

Landscape Service

T. Moreshead Landscaping

7

Restaurant

Madeira Restaurant

68

Landscaping & Constr

Limestone Landscaping & Constr

56

Roofing Contractor

B & R Fournier Construction, Inc.

54

Lawn Care

Lawn Doctor

59

Roofing Contractor

Tabeleys Roofing

61

Lawn Feritilization

Stingray Turf Management, Inc.

60

Seafood Market

Digger’s Catch

69

Lawn Services

Lawn Management Services

60

Security Systems

Home & Commercial Security

15

Liquor Store

Regency Liquors

68

Septic Inspections

Pro Inspection Services

76

Marble Fabricators

Star Marble & Granite

54

Septic Systems

Croome Sanitation, Inc.

77

Masonry - Custom

Jose Soares Masonry

51

Septic Systems

Seven’s Septic Service

50

Masonry-Construction

Valter Rego Masonry

16

Septic Systems

Soares Sanitation Pumping, Inc.

48

Mosquito Control

Stingray Turf Management, Inc.

60

Septic Systems

Town Sanitation

18

Mosquito & Tick Control ohDEER

58

Sports-Baseball

Seekonk Little League

65

Orthodontics

George Family Orthodontics

15

Stump Grinding

Heritage Tree & Arborist Services

19

Painting Contractor

Advantage Painting

61

Tax Preparation

New England Tax Service, Inc.

6

Painting Contractor

Cronan Painting

62

Trash/Junk Removal

Big Blue Removal Service

9

Painting Contractor

EZ Painting

76

Tree Service

Carlson Tree Service

54

Painting Contractor

Levine Painting Co., Inc.

49

Tree Service

Heritage Tree & Arborist Services

19

Paving Contractor

All Phase Asphalt Driveways

66

Tree Service

Seekonk Tree Service

24

Paving Contractor

Custom Paving Company

59

Water Treatment

Water Filter Company, Inc.

17

Paving Contractor

Ryan Asphalt Paving

32

Yard Services

The Backyard Man

56

Physical Therapy

Personal Best Physical Therapy

65

KENNY’S

Masonry and Chimney Sweep

nitation Inc. a S e m o o r C

Commercial

Residential

Quick Dispatch Service

Family-owned Quality Service Since 1962

Locally Owned & Operated for 35 Years Quality, Service & Dependability

• INSPECTIONS • EMERGENCY SERVICE • SWEEPING • CAPS • LINERS • REBUILDS • WATERPROOFING • FLASHING • DRYER VENT CLEANING Masonry Repair & Restoration: Walkways • Patios • Pavers • Walls • Chimneys

508-649-1938

www.kennysmasonryandchimneysweep.com

Septic Tanks & Cesspools • Title V Inspections Vacuum Cleaned • Sewer Rooter Service

508-252-4668 • 508-336-7024 Rehoboth, MA

www.croomesanitation.com

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The Reporter March 2026

CLASSIFIEDS

Place Classified ads at www.ReporterToday.com

FOR RENT

Sine Plumbing & Heating "Quality Service Since 1945"

• Repairs & Installation • Residential/Commercial/ Industrial • Pumps & Filters Call Us To • Conditioners Sanitize • Water Heaters & Your Well!

Heating Systems • Drain Cleaning • Fully Licensed & Insured

Serving RI & Southeastern MA RIMP #625 MAMP #12592

Call (401)434-6436

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.

Apartment For Rent: East Providence, 2.5 bedrooms, kitchen, parlor, 3rd floor, $1100 per month, 1st and security. Call John at 401-588-0738.

HELP WANTED

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.

Help Wanted: Seekonk Flea Market at Seekonk Speedway. Positions available every Sunday from 5am-noon March 29th thru December 6th, 2026. Looking for general help. Call Linda at 401-263-5737.

EVENTS

Seekonk Flea Market at Seekonk Speedway is opening March 29th, 2026, 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.

WANTED

Wanted: Cash paid for your military items. Uniforms, Field Gear, Swords, Knives, Muskets etc. Looking for Revolutionary War, Civil War, WWI, WWII, and Vietnam items. Text or call and/or send photos. 508574-4392.

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.

We do estate cleanouts! Call 774-3015420

PERSONAL AD

Nice guy looking for a woman: Between 50-60 for companionship, dancing, and dining out. Call Kevin at 401-259-9393.

SERVICES

Housecleaning: Is your home in need of a really good cleaning? Whether you need a 1-time cleaning, or regular cleanings. Years of experience! (We include fridge and oven w/ our cleanings) Call Gil for details 508840-6611.

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

Bicycle Sales & Service: Your Bike Shops –Tune-ups on all brands. Now is the time to get your bike tuned up for Spring!

2 locations: in Riverside next to CVS 401433-4491, and in Warren next to the Police Station and the bike path. Call Art or Joe for service. Winter hours open Thursday, Friday & Saturday. 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.

March 2026 The Reporter

Exceptional Propane & HVAC Services Serving homes and businesses throughout Southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island

Why choose Propane Plus?

• We’re local • We answer the phones!

• We’re always there for you

Visit PropanePlus.com for more information.

508-252-3359

Don’t Get Screwed by the “Clean Heat Standard” HERE’S WHAT YOUR MA STATE GOVERNMENT PLANS TO DO: • Tax your Propane dramatically, forcing you to pay at least $1.00 more per gallon.

• Force you to replace your propane, oil or gas heating system with electricity, costing you thousands of dollars.

• Take away your right to choose how you heat your own home.

GO TO PROPANEPLUS.COM/CHS-FACTS OR SCAN THE QR CODE TO LEARN ABOUT THIS HARMFUL LEGISLATION!

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The Reporter March 2026

24 HO U R S 7 DOPEN” AY S A W E E K “ALWAYS

A locally owned & &opera ted, FULL ting oil A locally owned operated, FULLSERVICE SERVICEhea heating company serserving ving thethe East oil company EastBay Bayfor for40+ 40+ years. years.

Our enjoy: Our customers customers enjoy:

• Automatic & “Will-Call”oil deliveries • Competitive Full-Service oil pricing • Automatic & “Will-Call” oil deliveries • Flexible payment options: C.O.D.oil (cash/check), Monthly Budgets, 5-day credit • Competitive Full-Service pricing • Flexible payment options: • We accept all major Credit Cards • OurBudgets, acceptance of RIcredit & MA LIHEAP C.O.D. (cash/check), Monthly 5-day • 24/7 emergency & burner service 24/7 phoneofsupport • We accept deliveries all major Credit Cards • Our•acceptance RI & MA LIHEAP • 24/7 emergency deliveries & burner service • Truly friendly & knowledgeable employees • 24/7 phone support • Truly friendly & knowledgeable employees HVAC services:

PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID ATTLEBORO, MA PERMIT NO. PI 228

HVAC services: Service Plans • Service & Installs of Boilers,Service Furnaces, A/C & • Service & Installs of Boilers, Furnaces, Plans ductless Mini-Splits • &A/C More& ductless Mini-Splits – & More

508-336-8851 / 800-515-8003

2500 GAR HIGHWAY, SWANSEA MA MASTER MA RI LICENSED

www.evoilco.com

Excellence Guaranteed 2244 Pawtucket Avenue • East Providence, RI 02914 (401) 438-1994 • (401) 434-4774

Great Service. Great Quality.

Factory Certified: Chevrolet • Buick • GMC • Cadillac • Ford • Dodge • Chrysler Fiat • Jeep • Subaru • Nissan & Infiniti • Honda & Acura • Hyundai • Kia • Foreign & Domestic • Insurance Estimates • Complete Collision Work • Aluminum Repair Certified

Rated #1 Body Shop