• Special oils & filter types will result in extra charges
• Most U.S. & Import cars
PLEASE CALL FOR APPOINTMENT
Must present coupon. Includes:
• Lube, Oil Change & New Filter (up to 5 quarts of a major brand oil)
• Top Off Coolant & Other Fluids Under the Hood
• Complete Tire Rotation*
• Check Tread Depth on All Four Tires
• Adjust Tire Pressure to Manufacturer's Specs
• Evaluate Brake Condition
• Inspect Battery Terminals & Connections
• Examine All Belts & Hoses for Cracks
Rehoboth Town News
Laura Schwall
From the Town Clerk
Hello All ~ I hope you are enjoying the beautiful Fall weather in Rehoboth! Speaking of the Fall, I would like to remind all town residents that Town Offices will be closed on Monday, October 13th for Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Also, on Monday, November 3rd, quarterly real estate taxes are due. Final reminder, Tuesday, November 4th Rehoboth will hold its Fall Special Town Meeting at the Francis Farm Museum Building.
November
4,
2025 – Fall Special Town Meeting
As mentioned above, the Board of Selectmen voted to hold a Special Town Meeting on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, beginning at 7:00 PM at the Francis Farm – Museum Building. Voter check-in will begin at 6:00 PM. The last day to register to vote for the upcoming Special Town Meeting will be Saturday, October 25, 2025 between the hours of 8:00AM to 5:00PM at the Rehoboth Town Hall – 340 Anawan Street (Route 118). You may also register to vote any time prior to the October 25, 2025 deadline by mailing in a voter registration application (copies can be found at the Town Hall, Rehoboth Post Office lobby, Blanding Library, Rehoboth COA/Senior Center or online @ https://www.sec.state.ma.us/ele/elepdf/ Voter-reg-mail-in.pdf ). You may also register to vote 24/7 by going to www.RegisterToVoteMA.com prior to the voter registration deadline of 10-25-2025 in order to participate in the Town of Rehoboth Special Town Meeting ~ thank you.
2025 Dog License Update
To date we have registered 2,188 dogs, which is 230 more dogs than last year. Currently we have 88 dogs that are still unlicensed; 289 less than in 2024. After several reminders from our office to dog owners (January Census mailer; reminder letters in March prior to the annual rabies clinic and April 1st license renewal deadline; postcard reminders in May; monthly reminders in the Rehoboth Reporter since January, a 60-day grace period, and reminder phone calls from our Animal Control Office in July-August along with personal visits from our Animal Control Officer in September), regrettably, dog owners who are still delinquent, in October will be assessed a $25 non-criminal citations plus certified mailing costs to their $10/$20 dog license plus another $15 late fee. A $10 dog license renewal is now $69.64. For those dog owners who have not renewed their dog’s 2025 license, please renew as soon as possible to avoid further action involving the Animal Control Officer. The State authorizes all Animal Control Officers to fine delinquent dog owners $50/day until they renew their dog’s yearly licenses; please do not let that happen to you, pay today. If you are over 70 years old, registration fees are waived; however, you still must keep your dog’s rabies vaccinations current and register your dog every year.
Please renew your dog’s license now. You may pay by mail, at Town Clerk’s Office, or online @ https://permiteyes.us/rehoboth/publichome.php . We also have the drop box outside of the Town Hall (340 Anawan Street-Route 118) for after-hours drop-offs or stop by to see us during regular work hours (Monday-Thursday 8-4; Friday 8-12 Noon).
If you no longer have your dog, please call 508-252-6502 Ext. 3109 or Ext. 3112 or you may email TownClerk@RehobothMA.gov to update our records. Please license your dog as soon as possible to avoid further action involving the Animal Control Officer. Yearly dog licensing ensures all dogs in Rehoboth have updated rabies vaccinations. This process is in place to protect us all.
Marriage Intentions/Marriage Certificates
October is one of our busiest months for Marriage Intentions/Certificates in Rehoboth. Therefore, as a quick reminder of the process. Both parties must come to Town Hall and complete a three-part packet (Marriage Intention, Marriage Supplement, and Marriage Worksheet). Please look for the fillable PDFs and instructions included on the Town Clerk’s website: https://www.rehobothma.gov/town-clerk/pages/marriage-licenses . Please do not sign the documents until we can witness your signature in person. We will also be making a photocopy of your driver’s license. We ask, if possible, please make an appointment prior to coming to Town Hall (508-252-6502 – X3109 or X3112). The parties must provide their social security number and mother’s maiden name. Upon completion of the documents,
continued on next page...
Seekonk: Ahoy! Stop at 24 Anthony Street and take a tour this month! Open all of October from 6-9pm!
Rehoboth: Feeling Fall on Route 44, photo by Earle Dias Photography
We welcome all ideas, photos, articles, news releases and notices that affect these areas.
We reserve the right to refuse any submission, including classified/display advertising.
ALL NEWS ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY THE 25TH OF THE MONTH
It MUST INCLUDE the name and phone number of the sender.
The Reporter is MAILED FREE TO THE TOWNS OF REHOBOTH AND SEEKONK twelve months a year. Subscriptions are available outside our distribution area.
there is a “State required” 3-day waiting period before the couple may pick up their marriage license. The marriage intention/license is good for 60-days. If you are not married within that timeframe, you must complete the process again. The charge is $20 for the Marriage Intention and $10 for the Marriage Certificate. Note: If you are using an officiant from another state (Rhode Island for example), your officiant must obtain a one-day solemnization certificate from the Secretary of State’s office prior to your wedding day. The application can be found on the Secretary of State’s website: https://www.sec.state.ma.us/OneDayWeb/ External/Welcome.aspx , the Rehoboth Town Clerk’s website https://www.rehobothma.gov/ town-clerk/pages/marriage-licenses, or we have copies at Town Hall.
In closing, please stay healthy and safe and have a wonderful October. We look forward to seeing you at Rehoboth’s Special Fall Town Meeting on November 4th. Jenn, Kerrie and I wish you all a safe and healthy Columbus/Indigenous Peoples’ Day and Halloween! We wish you all a wonderful October. I look forward to chatting with you in November. Please stay healthy and safe.
Sincerely,
Laura
Rehoboth Nurses Notes, October 2025
Hello to you all!
In addition to our usual offerings;
• the BP screening clinic during the senior luncheon on Mondays from 11:45 am-1:15pm
• Open office hours on Tuesday and Thursday mornings & Home visits on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons by appointment
• Bereavement Group on Wednesday mornings from 9:30am-10:30 am
• And infectious disease monitoring
We will also be hosting a Domestic Violence presentation on October 8th in conjunction with the DA’s office and the Rehoboth Police department. The live presentation is in the Arcade Building from 10:50am-11:50am (you can head over to the COA for lunch afterwards!), but the presentation is also taped and air on the Rehoboth Cable Chanel. Healthy Eating During the Holidays is coming November 12th, just in time to help us stay healthy through the holiday season.
Our vaccine clinic in conjunction with CVS in September was a great success. We actually ran out of appointments, and there was such a demand for more appointments that CVS is graciously offering another clinic on Wednesday October 15th from 11am-3pm. They are offering the following vaccines: COVID vaccine (the new 2025-2026 version), ‘flu vaccine, pneumonia vaccine, RSV vaccine and Shingles vaccine. The registration link and QR code are available on the town web page, and also on a flier at the library, COA building and town hall lobby.
Before we know it Halloween will be upon us. If your family walks around the neighborhood, please be extra careful to have the children use something reflective as part of their costume. Those glow sticks work well, and our children are not too opposed to wearing them. If you and your family drive to trick or treat, it’s a good idea to have the children exit the car on the passenger side so they are not stepping into traffic coming from behind them. And to our drivers, it’s always a good idea to look for little feet under a parked or stopped car. For the little one’s who have adjusted to the school bus stops, they may presume all cars will stop for them. I’ve also noticed an increase in cyclist on the roads as the weather has become cool and crisp. Please share the road! Take the extra few seconds or minutes to pass the cyclist when you have plenty of room and a clear view of the road in front of you. People who converse with me will tell you, I often say, the minute you wait to pass safely, at any time, is well spent when it saves you and those on the road. The consequences of not doing so can be catastrophic. So slow down and get to where you are going safely. I’ll sign of for now, and we’ll chat again in November, Be kind, be safe, be healthy, Sincerely, Geri
Rehoboth Health Advisory
By Joe Siegel
Public Health Nurse Geraldine Hamel provided an overview of infectious diseases at Monday’s Board of Selectmen meeting. Hamel reported nine cases of Covid-19 over the summer and three preliminary cases as of Monday. Hamel said her bigger concern was tick-borne and mosquito-borne illnesses. “Most of us remain in the mild category for tickborne diseases,” Hamel explained.
Hamel warned of anaplasmosis, which can have “severe cerebral or brain impact” and babesiosis can have the same side effects but also “muscular skeletal side effects.” There was one reported case of anaplasmosis and three reported cases of babesiosis this summer.
Hamel urged residents “to be very cautious when they’re out in their gardens or our hiking or running or out in any kind of long grass or brush. They really need to be extra cautious with clothing, keeping long sleeves, long pants with socks over your pants, and tick checks when you come back into your house.”
Hamel noted residents need to be sure a tick is not on their body. If you do find a tick, you can “pull it out in its entirety” with tweezers.
Triple E (Eastern Equine Encephalitis) also was mentioned by Hamel. There were 376 positive mosquito cases reported in Eastern Massachusetts. “It still concerns me that the disease is that rampant among mosquito samples,” Hamel said, noting residents can protect themselves by using insect repellent. Long sleeves and long clothing are also recommended. However, mosquitoes can bite through clothing, even baseball caps. “If you don’t need to be, please don’t be out between dusk and dawn,” Hamel added.
Rehoboth Fire Department Promotional Announcements
The Rehoboth Fire Department is pleased to announce promotions created by the retirement of Chief Francis Barresi following his 38 years of service to the town. These promotions will become effective October 1, 2025.
• Assistant Chief Mark Haskell promoted to Chief of the Department.
• Assistant Chief Scott Wentworth made the Chief of the newly formed Training Division.
• Captain Ken (Marco) Marcotrigiano of Station 2 promoted to Deputy Chief of the Department.
• Captain Paul Magan of Station 3 promoted to Assistant Chief.
• Lt. Peter Graves of Station 2 promoted to the Captain of Station 2
• Lt. David Vickey of Station 3 promoted to the Captain of Station 3
• Firefighter Evan Barresi of Station 2 promoted to Lieutenant at Station 2
• Firefighter T.J. Sarrazin of Station 3 promoted to Lieutenant at Station 3
• Lieutenant Mike Cordiero assigned to the position of Deputy EMA Director
• Firefighter Marty Parker Sr. assigned to the position of the Department EMS Coordinator
The Rehoboth Police Department is taking back unwanted Prescription Drugs October 25, 2025
Rehoboth Event Being Held At The Police Department
10am-2pm.
The Rehoboth Police Department will be taking part in the Drug Enforcement Agency’s 29th National Take Back Initiative. This event will take place on October 25, 2025. Since 2010, this initiative has resulted in over 1.7 million pounds of pharmaceutical waste collected over twenty-eight drug take back events in New England. The collected medications will be disposed at several incineration facilities located throughout New England that will convert the pharmaceutical waste into clean renewable energy to be utilized by local communities. Since 2019 the Rehoboth Police Department has collected 721 pounds of pharmaceutical waste.
The DEA and its partners will collect tablets, capsules, patches, and other solid forms of prescription drugs. Liquids (including intravenous solutions), syringes and other sharps, and illegal drugs will not be accepted. DEA will continue to accept vaping devices and cartridges at its drop off locations provided lithium batteries are removed.
Helping people dispose of potentially harmful prescription drugs is just one way DEA is working to reduce addiction and stem overdose deaths.
Learn more about the event and find a local collection site at www.deatakeback.com, or by calling 800-882-9539.
Rehoboth Selectmen Appoint
New Fire Chief
By Joe Siegel
Mark Haskell will be the new Chief of the Rehoboth Fire Department, as of October 1. Haskell, the assistant fire chief, is succeeding Frank Barresi, who is retiring after serving for 38 years.
The Board of Selectmen approved a three year contract for Haskell at Monday’s meeting. Haskell has been a member of the department for 34 years.
Barresi joined the department in 1987 and worked his way up to the rank of Deputy Chief in 2011. In 2014, Barresi became Chief. In 2016, Governor Charlie Baker appointed Barresi to the Massachusetts Fire Training Council.
Lots of Fun at the Rehoboth Land Trust Puzzle-A-Thon
We’re All A Piece of the Land Conservation Puzzle!
Thank you to everyone who joined the Rehoboth Land Trust for our second Puzzle-A-Thon fundraiser! Twelve teams were each given their own copy of the same 300-piece puzzle, and raced to complete as much as they could in one hour. Friends and family came to cheer them on, enjoy tasty homemade treats, and listen to the fabulous live music provided by Woody & the Westside Warblers. Congratulations to team Pickled Parsnip for finishing the puzzle first! These two puzzlers beat last year’s record, completing the puzzle in 21 minutes. Congratulations also to The Oliver Girls team, which won the prize for the most number of sponsors.
The custom-made puzzle featured the winning images from RLT’s photo contest held in the spring. All six photos were taken in Rehoboth, by Rehoboth residents.
Thanks to the generosity of everyone who donated to support the teams, as well as the wonderful local businesses that sponsored this event, the Rehoboth Land Trust raised more than $4,000! This money will be used to fund land preservation right here in town, as well as help to maintain the more than 800 acres that Rehoboth Land Trust currently protects.
Rehoboth Land Trust, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization funded by donations and run by dedicated volunteers. We are not a town committee. Learn more at www.rehobothlandtrust.org.
Rehoboth Community Electricity Aggregation Renewed until November 2028
The Town of Rehoboth announces the renewal of its Rehoboth Community Electricity Aggregation (CEA) program, with new prices for the period November 2025 until November 2028. Rehoboth CEA is a group purchasing program, operated by the Town since 2016, which provides electricity supply options to help residents and businesses manage costs and increase renewable energy use.
The Town is excited that it has secured lower prices for all supply options! Current participants do not need to take any action to remain in the Rehoboth CEA program and receive the new pricing.
All new Rehoboth CEA prices will be fixed for 36 months, beginning November 2025 until November 2028. The Rehoboth CEA program will be served by our supplier, Constellation.
Learn more about our options at MassCEA.com/Rehoboth.
The majority of accounts in Town use the Rehoboth Standard option. You may switch to another Rehoboth CEA option at any time. To switch options, call our program’s electricity supplier, Constellation, at (833) 461-0813, or submit a request at MassCEA. com/Rehoboth.
No action is necessary to receive the new pricing for your current Rehoboth supply option. To check what Rehoboth CEA supply option you currently use, you can review the Supply section of your National Grid electricity bill. If you participate in the program, your current supply rate will appear as one of the “Old Prices” of products listed in the table above.
New prices take effect on your November 2025 meter read. The first bill to show the new Rehoboth CEA pricing will be the bill you receive showing usage from your November 2025 meter read to December 2025 meter read. Most customers can expect to receive this bill in December 2025.
The Town’s program launched in 2016, providing multiple contract terms of price stability. Most participants use the Rehoboth Standard product, which has collectively saved participants a total of $8,500,000, or about $2,210 for the typical residential customer since launch.
As a reminder, Rehoboth CEA prices only apply to the Supply portion of your electric bill and take effect on your meter read date. National Grid will continue to set the charges on the Delivery on your electric bill and will repair outages and manage all billing. Rehoboth CEA has no impact on any solar benefits, low-income discounts, or budget billing plans.
If you are not currently participating in Rehoboth CEA, you can join any time. To join, submit a request at MassCEA.com/Rehoboth.
Rehoboth CEA participants may leave the Program at any time, without penalty and return to Basic Service supply with National Grid. To leave the Program, call National Grid at (800) 322-3223, or submit a request at MassCEA.com/Rehoboth.
Rehoboth Food Pantry News
Welcome Fall, Rehoboth!
The golden hues of October are upon us, and with them, the spirit of harvest and gratitude. We hope you’ve weathered the summer heat with care and comfort. As the seasons turn, we’re reminded that autumn is not only a time of change—but of gathering, nourishing, and giving.
At the Pantry, we continue to be inspired by the generosity of our neighbors. Whether through food, time, or financial support, your contributions are a true harvest of kindness that help feed those in need across our town.
This Month’s Special Thanks Go To:
• The Rehoboth Congregational Church Backpack Supply Mission Project, for donating 16 fully stocked backpacks to help students start the year strong
• The Together At The Reserve Volunteer Group at The Reserve at Springhill, for organizing a wonderful community food drive
• The Horton Estates Social Group, for their thoughtful and consistent food donations
• Ongoing food contributions from St. Vincent de Paul – Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish, and Our Lady Queen of Martyrs
• Lindon at Rosasharn Farms and John M., for sharing the gift of fresh produce with the Pantry
• Nancy, who left a generous collection of food and paper goods at Munroe Feed & Grain
• Kylie, for organizing a food drive as part of a high school project—an inspiring example of youth service
• To the Reporter Team, for consistently sharing our news with our neighbors!
• And finally, to everyone who uses our drop-off locations across town, thank you for being part of this community-wide effort
• A very special thank you as well to our dedicated volunteers, those who give their time on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and whenever needed. From sorting to stocking, greeting to delivering, you are the heart of what we do.
We couldn’t do this without you. Thank you all.
Donation Reminder:
Please remember that we do not have full-time staff on-site at the Pantry. To help keep all donations secure and usable, we kindly ask that you avoid leaving food directly at the Pantry doors. Instead, please consider one of the drop-off locations listed below—or contact us to arrange a drop-off time or a pickup.
Pantry Hours & Contact:
Location: 51 Winthrop Street (rear of the building)
Open Thursdays: 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Need help or to arrange a pickup? Call 508-493-1922. We also offer confidential grocery delivery for residents unable to visit in person.
Donation Drop-Off Locations:
• Blanding Library – Bay State Rd.
• Land-Tek – 477 Winthrop St.
• Loraine’s Stitch ’n’ Crafts – 235 Winthrop St.
• Munroe Feed & Supply – 200 Fairview Ave.
• Harvest Tap & Table – 2685 GAR Hwy, Swansea
To Make a Monetary Donation:
• Website: rehobothfoodpantryma.org
• PayPal: Click to Donate
• Or mail a check to: The Rehoboth Food Pantry, 51 Winthrop Street, Rehoboth, MA 02769
Thank you, Rehoboth, for your continued support. In every season, your compassion makes a difference. With gratitude, The Rehoboth Food Pantry Board & Volunteers
New Fitness Center & Playground Open
By Joe Siegel
The new fitness center and playground at Francis Farm had its grand opening on Monday, October 6th.
Selectman Rob Johnson said the playground “is for people from 2 to 102 so it’s for everybody.”
Selectman Dave Pereira explained the Miller Taylor Hall “has already been enjoyed by many who have utilized activities within the fitness program.”
Senior citizens will now be able to use the facilities, which include three treadmills, a semi-recumbent stepper, a weight bench, and free weights.
Pereira noted the equipment will have sign-up sheets and will be scheduled through the Health and Human Services department. There will be welcome packets on orientation on proper use of the equipment. The fitness and exercise equipment area will be named Studio 60 Plus.
“They’re doing a great job. We really appreciate them,” Pereira said of the Health and Human Services staff.
The Town of Rehoboth purchased Francis Farm in 2021 following the fire which destroyed the former Council on Aging on Bay State Road. The Council on Aging is now housed in Francis Hall.
Rehoboth Veterans
Day 2025
A ceremony will be held on the 11th month, on the 11th day at the 11th hour at the Rehoboth Veterans Cenotaph on the corner of Route 44 and Danforth Street, followed by the placing of a wreath at the Rehoboth Veterans Memorial gazebo at Redway Plain.
A free luncheon for our Rehoboth Veterans & American Legion Post 302 members will be held in the afternoon at the American Legion Post 302 in Rehoboth starting around 11:30
Sponsored by “Rehoboth People have a Heart” organization.
Call the Veterans Office @ 315-4152277 or call Jake at 315-415-2277 or the American Legion @ 508-252-4467 to sign up OR you can send an e-mail to Veterans@ rehobothma.gov
Veterans War Memorial Moving
Forward to Vietnam Bronze Plaque
Monday night, September 22nd at the selectman’s meeting, my office received the approval to move forward with the next phase at the **War Memorial**. This will kick start a fundraiser for a VIETNAM MEMORIAL BRONZE PLAQUE to be placed at the Palmer River School.
The photos that I enclosed are at the War Memorial located in front of the Plamer River School along with phase II, for constructing a brick wall in lieu of the existing brick bench. I will be able to add two bronze plaques on this new wall, one for the Rehoboth Mothers of Veterans from the Viet Nam Conflict Era and the second plaque will be for the Rehoboth Mothers of Veterans from the War on Terrorism with no end date.
My time frame is to have fundraisers over the next few years into order to tear down the brick bench during the 2026 school spring break at Palmer River School and then construct a new brick wall for the 2 future bronze plaques. I have a Veterans Memorial Gift Fund revolving account with the town under “Veterans” and I hope to have enough funds to start this project this spring 2026. The construction of the wall alone is going to cost $7,800.00 and this does not include the bronze plaques.
If you could help kick start this fundraiser, I would greatly appreciate it.
The checks can be made out to: “Veterans Gift Fund”
Send to: Director of Veteran Services, 27 Francis Farm Road, Rehoboth, MA 02769
I have over 282 names as of today for this Vietnam plaque and will be making adjustments over the next 10 months as I continue to fine tune this
Thank you for your support and offers to this project.
- Jake
War Memorial Proposal
Palmer River Elementary School, Rehoboth, MA
This estimate is construction of a brick wall for the memorial plaques.
The existing brick sitting wall would be torn down and removed. The existing blue stone caps would be saved if possible. A new brick wall using S&H pavers would be built to be 8’ long by 12” wide, the same footprint as the bench. This wall would be the same height as the existing plaque wall with the old blue stone caps installed.
Total cost with labor and materials: $7800.00
*Please note that we discussed starting this job next year so pricing may increase slightly at that time
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Thank you, Bill
Gallant
WILLIAM GALLANT, JR. MASONRY SERVICES
The Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving Holiday Gifts
The Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Inc. is a local nonprofit charity (501-c3) whose mission is to serve Rehoboth residents by providing Christmas gifts, holiday support, and special occasion needs to our Rehoboth children and their families who are facing challenging times in their lives.
In October we will begin receiving requests for all holiday gifts. If you are in need of assistance, you may find our forms on our website www.rehobothblizzardofgiving.org. These completed forms must be received by November 12th - of course earlier than November 12th would be greatly appreciated! Remember, we can only accept our forms. Please contact us if you have any questions. Our hope is to help make your holiday season brighter!
The Blizzard of Giving is grateful for our wonderful Rehoboth community and your support! Your generosity allows us to continue to serve our Rehoboth families and their children. Please call Colleen McBride (508) 966-8122 for information on “adopting” a child or a family. Before our “snowflakes” are posted in November, we would graciously accept gift cards and tax-deductible monetary donations. Checks should 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.
As in past years, there will be gift request “snowflake” boards and collection boxes placed around Rehoboth November 18th. Please check next month’s Reporter, as well as our website (www. rehobothblizzardofgiving.org ) for information on Snowflake board locations and gift drop- off locations.
Please visit our website for more information: www.rehobothblizzardofgiving.org, email: rehobothblizzard@gmail.com or by calling Colleen McBride at (508) 966-8122. All personal information will be kept confidential. We continue to provide birthday support, and our Birthday forms can be found on our website. We thank all our Rehoboth supporters for continuing to make the holidays joyful for all! God bless,
Colleen McBride, Cathy Edington, & Cheryl Santos
Dighton-Rehoboth Forfeits Game
By Joe Siegel
Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School has forfeited a field hockey game against rival Somerset-Berkeley due to the participation of a male player.
“In keeping with DRRSD School Committee policy established in the spring of 2024, the DR girls’ field hockey team has opted to forfeit two contests because the opponent has a male on the team,” Superintendent Bill Runey said Sunday. “This stems from a tragic injury in an MIAA state playoff game played in November 2023. We support the team’s decision. High school athletics represent one of the last bastions of pure competition before young people move into the high-stakes, high-pressure world of college athletics. At this level, the focus must remain on student well-being — making sure the experience is safe, fair, and enjoyable for all participants. Victories may fade, but the lessons learned and the joy of competing with teammates last far longer. That’s why we consistently prioritize student safety and enjoyment ahead of the scoreboard.”
Runey added he will “remain hopeful that the MIAA will create opportunities for boys to compete against each other in field hockey, much like the way boys’ volleyball has become a staple in many high schools in the past few years. We’re proud of the way our field hockey team competes and the way they represent Dighton-Rehoboth.”
SEEKONK DENTAL
Rehoboth Animal Shelter News
The Rehoboth Animal Shelter is busier again with both dogs and cats, and even a domestic rabbit! Bunny is a very friendly couch potato with one floppy ear. Hank is a young adult dog, energetic but friendly. Diego is a four-month-old grey kitten, and Patty is an old lady tortoise shell cat looking for a quiet home. Something for everyone! See more adoptable pets on Petfinder.com. For more information, 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.
Selectmen Deny One Day Liquor License
By Joe Siegel
The Rehoboth Board of Selectmen voted to deny a one day liquor license for several organizations, including Holy Ghost Brotherhood of Charity, Rumford Hunting and Fishing Club, Inc., Shovel Town, and Rehoboth People Have a Heart.
The groups were planning to hold separate events in September and October. “Until we have a clarification on what’s acceptable and what isn’t, I would hold off on beer and wine and things of that nature,” said Chairman Skip Vadnais. “I think we’re being more than accommodating by allowing vendors to be there with all the questions that we’ve had.”
“We need to get a hold of which direction we’re going to go in,” said Selectman Lenny Mills. “I’m not comfortable without further investigation into it.”
Vadnais noted the first proposed event, an apple festival featuring children’s attractions, had not been presented until the “last minute.”
“It’s kind of short notice to not have those kinds of guidelines in effect,” noted Selectman Dave Pereira.
“At what point does the Police Department make a determination that perhaps an officer should be there,” Vadnais said. “I don’t know. We have not had an opportunity to discuss that with the Chief. The last time they had an event there, I guess it was pretty difficult to get down the street. It was a parking situation. Everybody’s making things up as they go along. I’ve been pushed as far as I’m going to be pushed. Our first responsibility is the safety of the public.”
Last month, the board approved new regulations for vendors on private property. Any business which wants to sell their products and services is required to have workman’s compensation as well as a certificate of insurance.
The owner of any venue which hosts big events also needs to provide proof of liability insurance “to name the town specifically,” said Vadnais at the Board’s August 25 meeting.
HANK
Breakfast
Rehoboth Council on Aging
Mon / Wed / Fri From 8:30-10
Lunch
Mon / Wed @ Noon. Come join us
Trivia!
Monday Oct 6th 12:45pm
Foods for Brain Health
By Tara Hammes RDN from MCOA
Thursday October 9th 10:00
Halloween Party
Wednesday October 29th
Tickets $10.00
Piano Serenade
Fridays 10:00 - 11:30
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 9:30AM
Please note new start time
Join our Email List
Updates during the month
COAmail@rehobothma.gov
Please also find us at https://www.rehobothma.gov/council-aging-0
Craft Supplies Needed
We have Paper Crafting Class and a Jewelry/ Resin Making. We can always use extra supplies. Scrapbooking, Cricut Supplies, die cuts, embossing folders. Jewelry making and resin supplies. We are in need of cotton, flannel, and fleece fabric for sewing projects. We are accepting yarn donations for hats & blankets.
Your donations are greatly appreciated
Meals on Wheels:
Please contact Bristol Elders, Inc. at (508) 675-2101 for information on the Meals on Wheels program.
ACTIVITIES
Mondays
8:30-10 BREAKFAST
9:00 Barre Class $3.00 Helps with balance, strength, and posture
9:30 Walking Club
10:00 Bocce
10:00 Cornhole Toss
10:00 Interval Fitness (NEW) $3.00
Timed intervals for fitness and rest focus on strength, balance, cardio, and a relaxing stretch at the end. Use of various props. All fitness levels welcome
Noon Gert’s Café ~ Ltd seating ~ $5.00
1:00 Line Dancing $3.00
Tuesdays
9:00 Dancer-cise $3.00
10:00 Jewelry Making Class $5.00 We will be doing Glass etching, wool felting, and more. These classes will be priced accordingly
10:00 Seated Yoga Fusion $3.00
Gentle Yoga with blend of movement and breathwork
10:00 Sewing & Quilting
11:00 Functional Fitness $3.00 StrengthBalance-Cardio-Stretch with a mix of props and great music
1:00 Hi-Lo Jack
1:00- 3:00 Crafty Fun Classes $5
Wednesdays
8:30 - 10:00 Breakfast
9:30 Walking Club
10:00 Fiber Arts (Knitting & Crochet get together. Jane Williams)
10:00 Bocce
10:00 Cornhole Toss
Noon Lunch Ltd seating ~ $5.00
1:00-3:00 Acrylic Painting Class $5.00
1:00-3:00 Dominoes
Thursday
9:00 Tai Chi $3.00
10:00 Drums Alive $3.00 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
As always all pricing is a suggested donation. Please sign up for Lunch ahead of time. This helps Chef Chico plan meals
Monday - Thursday 8:00am to 4:00pm Fridays 8:00am to Noon
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 COA: 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
AOL ENTERPRISES
The Rehoboth Senior Center’s vision is to grow and expand our offerings while preserving our commitment to the dignity and worth of every person in our community.
The Rehoboth Council on Aging shall:
a. Provide, coordinate and link available resources to help meet the needs of the Town of Rehoboth’s elders.
b. Carry out programs and services that range from information on community education, referrals, outreach, transportation, Meals on Wheels, health screenings, inter-generational activities, crafting programs and other programs beneficial to our seniors.
Rehoboth Senior Citizens Club News
On September 18th, 2025, the RSCC meeting held at the Arcade Building at Francis Farm was lively, busy and productive! Plans were solidified for our Public Safety Day participation on September 20th, roles and responsibilities for the Bazaar (October 18th) were clarified, and the choice of restaurant was made for our Christmas Lunch (December 18th)! Thank you to the members who brought the great tasting lunch for after the meeting!
We, the Rehoboth Senior Citizens Club, are really busy and involved with helping our seniors in town and are always excited to receive new members to the Club. If you, or someone you know, is interested in joining us, please call me (508-965-9491) or Jane Williams (508-252-5440) for more information.
Our next meeting will be on October 16, at noon, at the Arcade Building at Francis Farm. Lunch will be provided, but please bring your own non-alcoholic beverage.
We are looking forward to seeing everyone on the 16th! See you there!
Donna Howard, President RSCC
Annual Fall Bazaar
Our Annual Fall Bazaar will be held on October 18, 2025 at Francis Hall on the Francis Farm Complex, 27 Francis Farm Road, Rehoboth, MA from 9 A.M. to 3 P. M.
There will be many vendors with lots of hand-made crafts, a Bake Shop (home-made, of course) a Roll-Up Table (pick 10 rolled up pieces of paper for a chance at winning a prize), The Opportunity Table (with theme baskets and the board of gift certificates to win), The Shiny Griddle food truck, and kid’s activities for all to enjoy!
So come on down to our Annual Fall Bazaar, enjoy the fun, the people, and the food on October 18th, rain or shine.
Safety Day
Our club’s booth, set up at the well-attended Rehoboth Public Safety Day
From left to right: Elaine, Donna, Terry, Ken
REHOBOTH CULTURAL COUNCIL
C O M M U N I T Y I N P U T S U R V E Y
Were you aware that artists, schools and community groups may apply for grants from the Rehoboth Cultural Council?
YES NO
What should be the most important priorities funded by the Cultural Council?
Music and Arts in Schools
Youth Arts Programs
Others Projects led by local Artists
Public Events like Concerts and Festivals
Environmental Education Projects
Support of local art/cultural organizations
What current arts and cultural events do you attend? Is there any events you would like to see Rehoboth host?
How do you hear about local cultural events and activities that interest you?
Rehoboth Reporter
Town Website
Community TV
Others
Notices at the Library
Local Facebook Pages
Word of Mouth
Please tear out this page and return it to one of the drop boxes located at:
The Town Hall lobby
The Blanding Public Library lobby
or send us an email with your thoughts to: culturalcouncil@town.rehoboth.ma.us
Fine’s Nursery: Growing Roots for the Future
Fine’s Nursery is committed to raising native plants that will help restore our community’s landscapes with ecologically beneficial trees and shrubs.
One of our key projects, Trillium Preserve, is being developed as a re-planting program to revitalize a section of the old Fine Farms
property. This initiative will feature a carefully balanced mix of native plantings designed to provide food and shelter for birds and wildlife, while also supporting future generations with sustainable hardwoods. Inspired by a “Food Forest” model recommended by the USDA and Massachusetts DCR, the preserve will feature nut trees, berry bushes, and groves of chestnut trees interspersed with shrubs and other habitat-friendly plants.
Our History
Fine’s Nursery is rooted in our fifth-generation family farm in Rehoboth, Massachusetts—just 30 miles west of Plymouth Rock. Rehoboth, founded in 1643, is one of America’s oldest farming communities, and our family has been proud to call it home since the early 1900s.
"Proudly serving the community for over 20 years" Office: 508-399-6211 Cell: 508-272-7729
Owner/Operator Fully Insured
When the Fine family arrived by train and horse-drawn buggy, they revived an abandoned farm that had once served as a roadside inn for nearly two centuries. With one horse, a buggy, and sheer determination, they produced milk, butter, and eggs for the community, alongside seasonal vegetables.
Over the decades, the farm became a hub of horticultural innovation with greenhouses, flower production, and vegetable starters. The family’s beloved roadside farm stand, the Corn Crib, became a local landmark and was later donated to the Rehoboth Historical Society. Fine’s Tree Farm also flourished, supplying Christmas trees to generations of families. Many of those original spruces, pines, and hemlocks still stand tall today, providing shade, windbreaks, and wildlife habitat.
Now, Fine’s Nursery is opening a new chapter—specializing in native trees, shrubs, and plants. Our vision is to re-establish native forests by planting oaks, maples, birches, beeches, cedars, pines, and spruces, along with blight-resistant elms and chestnuts. Native understory plants will also be introduced, while invasive species are carefully removed to restore balance to the land.
Looking Ahead
Most of the trees, shrubs, and flowers we grow will be available to the community and local landscapers. By offering locally sourced, drought-resistant plants, Fine’s Nursery hopes to encourage sustainable landscaping practices. Our first retail sales are expected to begin in Fall 2025.
One of our main goals is to provide the region with reliable native plant stock—species that can thrive despite changing climate conditions, support wildlife, and withstand common pressures such as deer browsing and drought.
Why Native Plants?
Native plants are the cornerstone of a healthy ecosystem. Unlike many non-native species, they have evolved alongside our local wildlife for thousands of years, forming essential relationships with pollinators, insects, and birds.
According to the National Wildlife Federation, native plants:
• Form the foundation of the local food web.
• Support pollinators and provide essential food for birds and wildlife.
• Thrive in local soils and climate with minimal maintenance.
• Develop deep root systems that conserve water, improve soil, and sequester carbon.
• Are more resistant to pests and less dependent on chemical treatments.
• Honor the natural and cultural history of the land.
By choosing native plants, we strengthen biodiversity, support declining bird populations, and create landscapes that are both resilient and beautiful.
A Growing Movement
Across the globe, communities are embracing the idea of “microforests”—small but powerful plantings of native species in urban and suburban spaces. Cities like New York and Paris are reimagining concrete landscapes with pockets of trees and greenways, while homeowners are reducing lawn space in favor of diverse plantings that save water and provide habitat.
At Fine’s Nursery, our mission is clear: to grow and share beneficial native plants that support a thriving, balanced ecosystem right here in our community. With Trillium Preserve, we are reforesting farmland, removing invasives, and planting a living demonstration of how native plants can sustain wildlife, restore soil health, and offer a greener future.
NATIVE PLANT SALE
Annual Fall Clearance Sale
20% Discount or more
Sat. Oct 18th & Sun. Oct 19th
9:00 am - 2:00 pm
NATIVE TREES & SHRUBS
• River Birch or Yellow Birch
• Arrowood, Nannyberry & Other Viburnums
• Common & Vernal Witchhazels
• Red or White Dogwood
• Sugar Maple or Red Maple
• Lilac, Magnolia, Allspice, Red Bud
• Winterberry, Serviceberry, Chokeberry, Highbush Cranberry, Ninebark & More
• Blue or White Spruce, Red Pine, Balsam (Canaan) Fir
• Wetland Plants such as Speckled Alders & River Birch
* Ready for Fall planting, or Re-potting for Spring planting *
Also available – Selected Nut Trees & Edible Berries Chestnut & Hazelnut trees – Grape Vines and Berry bushes – PawPaw Trees
Prices from $25 – $100 each No Credit Cards – Cash or Check Sizes include 10” or 12” Fiberpots & 10” or 14” Tree Tubes
Why Native Plants?
Strengthen the eco-system - Support native birds & wildlife – Provide Food & Shelter
For Inquiries or to order in advance finesnursery@yahoo.com
The Seekonk Scene
From The Seekonk Town Clerk’s Office
September Real Estate Market Review
We hope you are enjoying the beautiful fall weather. From the foliage, festivals, apple picking, hayrides, and decorations, we are so fortunate to live in New England. If you would like to share your favorite spot or activity, please feel free to let us know at townclerk@ seekonk-ma.gov and we will share your ideas in the November article.
Upcoming Fall Town Meeting
FALL TOWN MEETING will be held at 7:00 p.m. Monday, November 10, 2025 in the Seekonk High School auditorium located at 261 Arcade Avenue. Please stay tuned to next month’s article and/or the website for more information on this important meeting.
September 15, 2025 Special Town Meeting News
A Voter Petitioned Special Town Meeting was held on Monday September 15th at 7:00PM at Seekonk High School. Thank you to all the residents who took the time to attend and participate in this meeting!
There was only one question on the warrant and the following motion was made:
“Move that the Town appropriate a sum not to exceed $9,500,000 to fund the construction of the South End Fire Station, including utility and other site improvements incidental or directly related to such construction, necessary architectural, engineering or other provisional and legal expenses and fees associated with the project, storage and moving expenses, furnishings and equipment and for all other costs incidental or related thereto: and as funding thereof, to authorize the Treasurer with the approval of the Select Board to borrow said funds pursuant to G.L. c44 Section 7 or any other enabling authority and issue bonds and notes thereof; to authorize the Town to apply for any grants or loans available for the project, and further, that the amount of authorized borrowing under this vote shall be reduced by the amount of any grants received for the project prior to the issuance of bonds or notes under this vote; provided however, that the vote taken hereunder shall be expressly contingent upon approval by the voters of the Town at an election to exempt from the limitation on total taxes imposed under G.L. c 59 Section 21 C (Proposition 2 ½) the amounts required to pay the principal and interest on the borrowing authorized by this vote.”
The article did not receive the necessary two-third vote; and therefore, did not pass.
Vote Results: Yes-216/No-118/Total votes:334.
Kristen L’Heureux
These town meetings could not be held without the help from our Election Workers, Public Works Department & SHS Custodians/Maintenance Department, Police & Fire personnel, and TV9. We cannot say thank you enough for all you do for us in the Town Clerk’s Office.
The Town Clerk’s Office Is Now On The Town’s Online Permitting And Licensing Portal
Many transactions can now be completed online through our online permitting portal.
Request a Vital Record, Apply for a Business Certificate, Register for Marriage License Appointment, Apply for a Raffle or Bazaar Permit, Apply for a Yard Sale Permit, Apply for a Dog License
To get started Visit the Town Clerk’s page of the Town of Seekonk website and click the link for the application you need. The website will redirect your search to the OpenGov system where you can complete your application. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call our office and we will walk you through the process or come in and we will show you the process in-person.
Board And Committee Highlight –Finance Committee
The Seekonk Finance Committee is a seven-member board who are appointed by the Town Moderator to a three-year term. The Committee offers advice and assistance to the Select Board and other town officials on financial matters that have a material impact on the well-being of the Town of Seekonk. They serve as an Advisory Board and makes recommendations at Town Meetings for the town’s budget and warrant articles. The Finance Committee also approves appropriations from the Reserve Fund.
They meet on an as-needed basis, except for the months of February - April, when weekly or biweekly meetings are held to review the Annual Town Budget and Warrant Articles for the Annual Spring Town Meeting.
There is currently one position available. Please consider completing a talent bank form.
Reminders From The Town Clerk’s Office
Dog licenses are past due. As of June 1, dog license renewals are past due. Per MGL Chapter 140 Section 137, all dogs 6 months or older must be licensed annually with proof of a current rabies vaccination. Failure to comply may result in a bylaw citation fee. As of June 1st, there is a $20.00 late fee per dog imposed on license renewals. The license fees are $10.00 for spayed or neutered dogs/$20.00 for un-spayed or un-neutered dogs. If you are late renewing, please remember to add $20.00 per dog to the above fees. You can now renew or register your dog on the online portal - OpenGov.
Reminders From The Tax Collector’s Office
If you have any questions regarding your taxes, please contact the Tax Collector’s Office at 508-336-2930.
Motor Vehicle Excise Taxes - Motor Vehicle Excise Tax 4th commitment bills were due by August 27, 2025. Demands were issued on September 15th and are due September 29, 2025. Motor Vehicle Excise Tax bills 1, 2, & 3 commitment bills are past due and are now with the Deputy Collector (781-944-8504).
FY26 Disposal bills were mailed on September 18, 2025 and are due October 21st ($315 per unit). If you have not paid the prior’s years disposal bill(s) please call for an updated balance.
Real Estate and Personal Property Taxes: Demand notices have been issued for any unpaid Real Estate or Personal Property Taxes, and payment was due in full by June 5, 2025. 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 4th and second quarter is due by November 3, 2025.
Update - Town Office Hours Effective Through December 31, 2025
Town Hall
• Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 7:30 AM
• to 4:30 PM
• Wednesday 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM
• Closed Friday
Building and Health Departments
• Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 6:30 AM
• to 3:30 PM
• Wednesday 6:30 AM to 4:30 PM
• Closed Friday
• Monday through Thursday 8:15 AM to 4:00 PM and Friday
• 8:15 AM to 12:00 PM Public Works
• Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM
• Wednesday 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM
• Friday 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM
Thank you for taking the time to read the Town Clerk’s Office monthly update. Please stay tuned for the November Seekonk Reporter article for more town meeting news. As always, please contact us at (508) 336-2920 or email townclerk@seekonk-ma. gov if you have any questions.
~Kristen and Shandra
The Seekonk Cultural Council Seeks Funding Proposals
Proposals for community-oriented arts, humanities, and science programs due no later than October 16.
The Seekonk Cultural Council has set an October 16th deadline for organizations, schools, and individuals to apply for grants that support cultural activities in the community.
According to Council spokesperson Rob Emlen, these grants can support a variety of artistic projects and activities in Seekonk -- including exhibits, festivals, field trips, short-term artist residencies, or performances in schools, workshops, and lectures.
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The Seekonk Cultural Council is part of a network of 329 Local Cultural Councils serving all 351 cities and towns in the Commonwealth. The LCC Program is the largest grassroots cultural funding network in the nation, supporting thousands of community-based projects in the arts, sciences and humanities every year. The state legislature provides an annual appropriation to the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency, which then allocates funds to each community.
This year, the Seekonk Cultural Council will distribute about $9,600 in grants. Previously funded projects include:
• Entertaining and Interactive programs for elementary schools
• Support for drama presentations for our Middle School
• Funding for educational and creative projects for our High School
• Inspiring programs for children at our Public Library
• Performances and thoughtful talks for adults at our Public Library
• Music and classes at our Senior Center
For local guidelines and complete information on the Seekonk Cultural Council, contact Rob Emlen, Chairperson at rob. emlen@gmail.com. Application forms and more information about the Local Cultural Council Program are available online at www.mass-culture.org.
• Service Contracts
• Budget Plans
• Propane Deliveries
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:
Recycling Bin Sticker Project (Leave your bins out!)– DPW & Recycling Committee will be going out to each street in town on your pickup day to affix a RecycleSmart sticker to each Recycling bin. If possible, please leave your bins out for the day, even if your collection happens early. If your bin is not out when we visit, we’ll attempt to hang the sticker on the outside of your mailbox for you to affix yourself. If you feel like you’ve been missed or have any other questions- please call DPW. The sticker has helpful reminders about what should be going into Recycling, and should help identify which bin is for Recycling if you’ve been delivered a new color other than the older style orange lid.
Second Saturdays @ Special Recycling Shed! Even though Bulky Waste Pass Days take a break for winter, the Special Recycling Shed at TARF will remain open each month throughout the year, ONLY on the 2nd Saturday of each month 8AM-12PM, and accepts anti-freeze, all light bulbs, all batteries, all mercury items, radioactive smoke/carbon detectors, ink/toner cartridges, EMPTY aerosol & co2 cans, and string lights & extension cords - free of charge. Solar panels & propane tanks both w/blue bulky stickers $10 as well.
Seekonk Transfer Station/TARF (351 Fall River Ave) is 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 will continue for Oct 11th and Nov 8th. 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.
Sustainability Survey: The Recycling Committee wants to hear from you! There is a survey posted on the Recycling Committee page on the town website www.SeekonkMA.gov please help us understand what you’re interested in, what you need help with and what you’d like to see.
Don’t Trash It! Consider donating items that are still usable-post a free CURB ALERT on social media, or search donation near me online for pickup if you cannot drop off at any of the local resources like Savers, Goodwill, 4 Echoes or Angel’s Care Closet. If items are broken or no longer usable, pick up a special recycling packet at DPW or town website for FREE recycling resources-especially for electronics which contain valuable materials that can be reused/recycled when handled properly.
The Library of Things- did you know the Seekonk Library has way more than books? With things like karaoke machines, metal detectors, stud finders, instruments, cameras, computers & more, it›s an amazing way to borrow what you need & save money!
Recycling Tip of The Month: Did you know that foil wrapping/bags like chips, snack bars and candy CANNOT go in your curbside recycling bins? They are multilayered linings made of plastic and metal, and require special handling to be recycled. These should go in the TRASH-however for the Halloween Season, we have a special recycling bin to collect these wrappers/bags for recycling via Terracycle. Contact the Recycling Coordinator for drop off.
*Please remember to recycle right, and…. Reduce-Reuse-Recycle (in THAT order!)*
From Phones to Power Tools: Seekonk Fire Department Urges Residents to Know the Risks of Lithium-Ion Batteries this Fire Prevention Week
The theme for Fire Prevention Week™, October 5–11, 2025, is “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.”
The Seekonk Fire Department is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) — the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week™ (FPW™) for more than 100 years — to promote this year’s FPW campaign, “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” It highlights how important it is to buy, charge, and recycle lithium-ion batteries safely.
Most of the electronics we use in our homes every day — smartphones, tablets, power and lawn tools, laptops, e-cigarettes, headphones, and toys, to name just a few — are powered by lithium-ion batteries. In fact, most everything that’s rechargeable uses this type of battery.
If not used correctly or if damaged, lithium-ion batteries can overheat, start a fire, or even explode. To reduce these risks, look around your home — it’s important to know which devices are powered by them. “Lithium-ion batteries are powerful, convenient, and they’re just about everywhere,” said (your name, title). This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign helps people understand the importance of using these batteries correctly to prevent fires in the home and to follow the Buy, Charge, and Recycle Safely approach.”
Buy only listed products.
• When buying a product that uses a lithium-ion battery, take time to research it. Look for a stamp from a nationally recognized testing lab on the packaging and product, which means that it meets important safety standards.
• Many products sold online and in stores may not meet safety standards and could increase the risk of fire.
Charge devices safely.
• Always use the cables that came with the product to charge it. Follow the instructions from the manufacturer.
• If you need a new charger, buy one from the manufacturer or one that the manufacturer has approved.
• Charge your device on a hard surface. Don’t charge it under a pillow, on a bed, or on a couch. This could cause a fire.
• Don’t overcharge your device. Unplug it or remove the battery when it’s fully charged.
Recycle batteries responsibly.
• Don’t throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins because they could catch fire.
• Recycling your device or battery at a safe battery recycling location is the best way to dispose of them. Visit call2recycle.org to find a recycling spot near you.
The Seekonk Fire Department encourages all residents to be aware of their devices, follow the Buy, Charge, and Recycle Safely approach, and support this year’s FPW theme, “Charge into Fire Safety™.”
The Seekonk Fire Department is hosting an Open House on Sunday, October 5, 2025 from 10:00AM – 1:00PM at the Public Safety Complex, 500 Taunton Avenue, Seekonk. MA.
For more information about Fire Prevention Week and lithiumion battery safety, visit fpw.org.
Metals USA Combatting Hunger in Seekonk
Metals USA donated $1,000.00 to the Doorways Food Pantry as part of their corporate giving program.
Metals USA is a national company with over 50 years in business; their headquarters are in Pennsylvania, but they have a location in Seekonk with 30 employees, using state-of-the-art equipment to cut and shape high quality metal plates to customer specifications. Metals USA has a program to donate to local charities in towns where they have production facilities, and Bob Kardibin and his crew selected the Doorways Food Pantry to receive a $1,000.00 donation to help the less fortunate in our community.
The local employees were not content to leave the philanthropy to corporate; they ran a food drive in their facility and arrived with a dozen boxes and bags bursting with a variety of food items. “Food donations are very appreciated” said Cindy Mullen of Doorways. “Any variety that we can offer our shoppers is a direct result of local giving.” On behalf of the residents of Seekonk, we want to thank the folks at Metals USA for helping us to provide for the most vulnerable among us.
Stop & Shop Supports Doorways with Food Drive
The Newman Ave Stop & Shop in north Seekonk recently held a food drive to address a severe shortage of canned pasta at the Doorways food pantry. As Stop & Shop customers were checking out, the cashier would ask them if they would like to buy a can to donate to the food pantry. The store’s customers responded with overwhelming generosity, as they have so often in the past, and donated 20 cases of canned pasta over the first weekend. Over the course of the following week, store customers donated another 20 cases of canned pasta – an impressive display of the support that the residents of this town have extended to helping ensure food security for their neighbors. “This will last us for several weeks” said Dave Francis of Doorways. “When you are serving over seventy families on a regular basis, it can go quick. Canned pasta with meat is always a desirable item.”
Doorways would like to thank Stop & Shop store manager Sherry Olsen and her wonderful staff, and also thank you to the generous store patrons who bought cans of food so that others might eat.
Seekonk Animal Shelter News
Meet Peyton!
If you’re looking for a sweet companion, Peyton may be your girl! She was brought to the shelter as a stray dog found near the Greenbrier neighborhood. She is a young, female Pit Bull mix and we are estimating she is under 2 years old. This beautiful girl comes across as very energetic, but is actually more of a cuddly lap dog who just wants to be loved. She is happiest just spending time with her people… whether it be hanging out in the laundry room while she watches us fold towels, relaxing by our side while we do office work, and especially when we are giving her belly rubs and pets! She also likes to go for car rides.
L to R: Troy Zwolinski, Steve Hart, Gerry McCabe (Doorways), Bob Kardibin, Robin Phaneuf, Ryan Fiedler
Marissa McCabe & Corinne Blair present the first load of 20 cases of Chef Boyardee canned pasta. The following week the store’s customers donated 20 more cases – thank you!
Peyton does enjoy short walks but she seems to get a little too excited when she sees small animals outside, so she will be best in a home without cats. She is not bothered by the other dogs currently at the shelter, but if a potential adopter has another dog in the home, we would need to see how they get along. Due to her size, we would recommend, if there are children in the home, they would have to be 13 or older. She has recently been spayed, vaccinated, and she tested negative for heartworm disease.
Peyton deserves a loving home and in return she will provide plenty of joy, happiness and companionship. If you would like to meet this sweet girl, please call the Seekonk Animal Shelter to schedule an appointment at (508) 336-6663.
Seekonk Welcomes New Firefighters
By Joe Siegel
Three new firefighters, Michael Olson, Brian Farry, and Jaden Weyant, were sworn in at the September 3 Select Board meeting. Chief Shaun Whalen said Olson, Farry, and Weyant joined the Seekonk Fire Department last January. Whalen provided information about their backgrounds and qualifications.
In addition, the Board approved Corey Giguere for a conditional officer of employment for the position of Police Officer as a lateral transfer. Giguere, from Blackstone, Massachusetts, has five years experience in law enforcement. He is currently employed as a Police Officer in the town of Millville. Giguere attended the University of Massachusetts, where he was enrolled in the Criminal Justice program.
No South End Fire Station for Seekonk
By Joe Siegel
Last month, the Seekonk Select Board rejected a request from member Gary Sagar to hold another vote on funding for a South End Fire Station at the November Town Meeting. A second attempt to authorize $9.5 million in funding for the project was rejected by voters at the September 15 Town Meeting. As required by law, the article needed a two-thirds majority to pass. 216 votes were in favor, with 118 in opposition. If the article had passed, a special election would have been held for the purpose of approving a debt exclusion, which is a temporary tax increase.
The project was also rejected at the May town meeting by a vote of 112 – 108. Sagar had cited the town’s growing population and the need to reduce response times as reasons for why a new fire station is necessary.
“I believe it’s needed,” Board member Michael Healy said at a previous meeting. “From day one, I’ve stated that staffing is the issue. (The fire department) has been understaffed and undermanned.”
Healy, a former Fire Chief, believed response times could be improved with a new station, but that would come with a price. “We’re putting the life of every single firefighter in greater jeopardy because they operate unsafely to this day,” Healy said. “It’s time for it to change.”
Healy believed the presentation of the project was flawed, which may have caused the article to be rejected by voters.
“We still have the same questions from the residents that we had in June, that we had the other night,” Healy said. “We have not solved any of the questions that we need to solve. It boils down to how we are going to fund it, how it’s going to happen, are the numbers even legitimate, and everything else.”
Sagar believed the school department’s decision to hold a “listening session” on September 15 “interfered” with Town Meeting.
“That hurt our attendance,” Sagar noted at the Board’s September 17 meeting.
Seekonk Public Schools Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell dismissed Sagar’s claims, explaining there were four community discussions scheduled on September 9, 15, and 17 at Aitken, Martin, Hurley Middle School, and Seekonk High School. “Please note that the high school Key Club offered babysitting at each of the four sessions, which was advertised in additional communications,” Kidwell said. “I scheduled the sessions with the parent leadership and principal at each school. The Martin PTO suggested Monday, September 15th would work for them. I opened the Martin (Elementary) Listening Session by reminding people of the Special Town Meeting, stopped the session at 6:30pm, and encouraged those in attendance to head to the high school for the meeting and vote.”
In July 2024, Fire Chief Shaun Whalen shared his belief that a tax increase to pay for the project would have been too much of a burden on residents. Whalen explained the town’s other expenses had to be taken into consideration. $1 million will be used to pay Seekonk’s share of the Tri-County Regional Vocational High School’s new building.
Whalen noted that if the station was to be built, some firefighters would need to be reassigned from the other two stations – the Banna station on Pine Street and the Police/Fire Headquarters on Taunton Avenue. Additional staff would also need to be hired.
Voters at the May 2020 town meeting allocated $425,000 for the design of the facility at the site of the former school administration building at 69 School Street. The town has since demolished that property. The 8300 square foot building was to consist of three components, including dispatch, living quarters, and fire suppression.
No Grade Changes for Seekonk Schools
By Joe Siegel
The Seekonk School Committee opted not to vote on proposed grade reconfigurations for the 2026-2027 academic year.
One proposal involved moving fifth grade students to Hurley Middle School and eighth grade students at Hurley Middle School to Seekonk High School. Another proposal would have designated Aitken Elementary School for students in pre-kindergarten through Grade 2 and Martin Elementary School for students in Grades three through five. Listening sessions for parents were held at the district’s four schools last month.
“I would’ve liked to have heard everyone’s opinions,” said committee member Emily Field at the September 22 meeting. We’re tabling it now but for how long? I feel strongly that we shouldn’t ignore this and we should be working on a plan constantly.”
“I want the public to know, as an administrative team, I truly believe all five school committee members are trying to do what’s right for your (children),” Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell said. “We are all collectively, trying to find a solution here and inaction is a difficult solution. As a community, we have to accept the solution. I don’t know what the outcome should be.”
Kidwell added that “reconfigurating to a lower elementary and an upper elementary doesn’t free up as much space as we like it to because we’re also aiming to maintain small class sizes. Taking action prior to 2026/2027 would be to our benefit.”
Meet Peyton!
“I worry that if we do not combine all our positive energy as a community, that we will not get the votes at town meeting, five years, seven years, down the line when we’re trying to make this a long term solution,” Gerardi said at the September 22 meeting. “The MSBA solution will go nowhere unless we listen to the entire community.”
Gerardi had scheduled a vote on the grade changes for the September 2 meeting. The meeting date had been moved up from the 8th, which resulted in complaints from committee members.
Gerardi was upset at the perception of a “transparency issue” on the part of the committee and noted the meeting change was due to a “conflict.”
“We could’ve taken those votes (on the grade changes) in the summer as this has been an ongoing agenda item all summer for discussion,” Gerardi added. “I wanted us to take a vote before September to give parents and staff adequate time to plan. I don’t want to be in the same place next year when we’re talking about kindergarten again.”
The school committee applied to the MSBA (Massachusetts School Building Authority) last April to address building needs. The MSBA requested additional information about the community’s hopes for this project to meet identified needs, such as overcrowding at the elementary level and the outdated heating system at Hurley Middle School. A survey regarding the use of Hurley was sent out to the community with a deadline of October 2.
“We look forward to sharing updated information with the MSBA and await their response in early December,” Kidwell added. “The district is also faced with the need to develop short term solutions that will hold until a larger project can be completed.”
Board Divided Over Medeiros Farm Project
By Joe Siegel
The Seekonk Select Board remains divided over the Medeiros Farm project. In a 3 to 2 vote at the September 3 meeting, the board approved the bid award for OPM (Office of the Project Manager) services to KCM Group. Chair Michelle Hines, Michael Healy, and Chris Zorra voted yes, with Gary Sagar and Pam Pozzi in opposition.
Sagar had urged the board to “pause” work on the project. “There’s a lot of turmoil within the neighborhood and they ultimately have a big say in this. It’s in the town’s best interest because I see us walking into another large lawsuit. This whole project needs a special permit from the zoning board,” Sagar said.
Sagar proposed holding a public hearing so residents and members of the Medeiros Farm Committee could air their opinions. A vote on use of the property will be held at a future town meeting.
The Town acquired the property for $2 million. At the May 2023 Town Meeting, the Town voted to appropriate $150,000 from the Community Preservation Fund Undesignated Reserve to hire and direct a consultant to develop a master plan for the Medeiros Farm project at Elm Street and Lincoln Street. A seven member committee was appointed to oversee the project.
“This is a town decision,” Hines said. “We are five residents of the town. Our vote will count just as much as everybody else’s does.”
Resident Ken Kazarian was concerned about the property being converted into multiple soccer fields. “We’re about to spend 12 million dollars and have about 150,000 dollars a year on maintenance costs on false surveys,” Kazarian said. “I’m saying ‘calm it down.’ You’re in the middle of a residential neighborhood. Do it next to a school.”
Town Administrator Shawn Cadime told Kazarian the town’s Open Space and Recreation Plan “shows the need for more athletic fields.” Cadime explained the first phase of the project involved a conceptual drawing submitted to the May 2025 Town Meeting for
their approval. “We have $825,000 which has been appropriated for OPM and designer services,” Cadime added. “We’re in that process. Town Meeting will have another opportunity to move forward with the project.”
“It does not belong there,” said Doreen Taylor, a former chair of the Select Board. “If this is presented as is, without any change to it, it doesn’t fit. We do not need eight athletic fields shoved into a residential neighborhood like that. Totally out of place. Downsize it. It will cost us less.”
Taylor also criticized the board for reappointing Justin Sullivan to the Medeiros Farm Committee. Sullivan had served as the board’s representative on the committee. Taylor said the board “overstepped its’ authority” by allowing Sullivan to remain on the committee even though he is no longer a member of the board. Pam Pozzi volunteered to serve as the new board liaison but did not secure enough votes.
Hines defended the board’s decision to keep Sullivan, noting he had been on the committee since its inception. “We did satisfy the (warrant) article the way it was written,” Hines noted. ‘The majority of (the board) did not want to take (Sullivan) off and appoint somebody brand new.”
Seekonk Veterans Council
By Joe Siegel
Honoring the dedication of military veterans and their sacrifices is the mission of the Seekonk Veterans Council. The Council organizes many events, including the annual Memorial Day parade as well as the rolling parade just before Veterans’ Day.
Veterans Agent James LaFlame explained the rolling parade started when the town was unable to hold a Memorial Day parade in 2020 due to Covid-19. The event started off with tremendous support but that has dwindled in the last few years. “We want to figure out if we want to keep doing it,” LaFlame said.
The Council also provides trees to the Veterans Memorial Park before the start of the Christmas season. Residents can sponsor a tree in honor of a veteran or family member. “We provide the lights, we set up the trees, and they can come out and set up the lights and decorate them as they want,” said Kevin Kugel, Council chair. “They stay up basically for the whole month of December. We do a tree-lighting ceremony, invite Santa, have hot chocolate, kids can take pictures with Santa and then at the end of December, they return the lights to us and we take the trees down.”
Kugel served in the Army for 22 years. He later taught ROTC at Providence College and now works at Boston University. “For me personally, it was a very rewarding career, but those rewards came with immense sacrifices,” Kugel noted. “As an active duty soldier, I moved around every couple of years and brought my family with me. By the time we moved (to Seekonk), my wife had moved 11 times. I had moved 13. It’s not easy on the individual or their family.”
LaFlame served in the Army for 33 years. He has been the Veterans Agent for the last 10 years. “I started out in the National Guard because my dad and sister were in the National Guard,” LaFlame noted. “So I decided I liked it and went into active duty.”
Maintaining the Veterans Memorial at Seekonk Commons is another of the Council’s responsibilities. The Council also puts up banners along Route 152 to recognize Hometown Heroes in the days leading up to the Memorial Day parade. These are to honor veterans who have been killed in action in various wars.
The Council has seven members and the meeting dates are posted. Anyone from the community is welcome to join a meeting.
Starting on November 10, the Council will be hosting a Coffee Hour for Veterans at the Senior Center. This event will allow for networking with other veterans, as well as the chance to learn about services and programs available to Veterans. To register, call Seekonk Human Services at 508-336-8772.
Seekonk Human Services
Holiday Hours: Closed on Monday, Oct 13, 2025 for Columbus Day
Eye Care Presentation
Monday, Oct 6, 2025 at 2:00pm
Join us for an informative presentation on protecting and preserving your vision, hosted by our Public Health Nurse, Lisa Valente, RN, CDOE and presented by Shawn J. Khan, MD, MBA. Med. Learn about common eye conditions, early warning signs, and practical steps you can take to keep your eyes healthy for years to come. Look forward to a clear vision for a brighter future. Preregistration is required.
Community Flu Vaccine Clinic
Tues, Oct 7, 2025 9:00am - 3:00pm
The Seekonk Senior Center will host an on-site, seasonal flu vaccine clinic here at our Senior Center. Supported by your local CVS pharmacy. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of the convenient opportunity. Contact Lisa Valente, Regional Public Nurse, at 508-336-2979 Appointments are limited. Preregistration is required.
Harvest Party
Wed, Oct 8, 2025 at 11:30am
Musical entertainment by Carine Paul for all to enjoy at our Harvest Party. Lunch will be pizza and dessert. The fee for residents is $10.00 and non-residents is $13.00. Preregistration is required.
Abigail Whitney
And other Heroines of the American Revolutionary War
Wed, Oct 15, 2025 at 1:00pm
Abigail Whitney’s family and neighbors were personally involved with the events of the American Revolutionary War. Join Abigail as you learn about these ‘unsung Heroines’ as well as the legacies of Abigail Adams, Deborah Sampson, Martha Washington, and Dolley Madison. Preregistration is required.
Hearing Clinic
Mon, Oct 20, 2025 from 1pm - 3pm
Chris Brissette from Hearing Life will be here for the Hearing Clinic. Appointments are scheduled every 15 minutes. Preregistration is required.
Book Club
Tues, Oct 21, 2025 at 10:00am
3rd Tuesday of each month
Come join the “Book Club!” This month
will have a discussion of, “The Nightingale” by Kristin Hannah. Each person needs to get their own copy for the book club. A “leader” each month checks with the Seekonk library to make sure there is a sufficient quantity to allow participants to borrow. The group will be led with discussion questions but feel free to bring your own. Preregistration is required.
America’s National Parks by Matt Davis
Wed, Oct 22, 2025 at 1:00pm
Perhaps one of our country’s greatest treasures is our extensive system of National Parks. Join author and Professor Matt Davis as he takes us on a virtual tour of some of the nation’s most famous parks. Showcasing dozens of his original photographs, he’ll provide interesting details about how the parks were created, the unique landscapes and wildlife they protect, and some of the challenges they face from ever-increasing tourism. Preregistration is required.
Reverse Mortgages
Monday, Oct 27, 2025 at 2:00pm
Please come and listen to Mike Kennedy do a presentation on Reverse Mortgages. Preregistration is required.
Halloween Party
Wed, Oct 29, 2025 at 11:30am
Come join in on the fun at our annual Halloween party. We will have a costume contest with prizes, so wear your best costumes. Our entertainment will be by our Tribal Grooves Witches. Lunch will follow at 12:30pm. Lunch will be American Chop Suey and dessert. The fee for residents is $10.00 and non-residents is $13.00. Preregistration is required.
Women’s Lunch
Wed, Nov 5, 2025 at 11:30am Longhorn, 80 Highland Avenue, Seekonk
This group meets the 1st Wed of every month. Everything is Dutch treat. If you are interested in joining for good food and good conversation, while supporting our local restaurants, please call the office. Cash payment is preferred. Preregistration is required.
Blood Pressure & Glucose Clinic
Wed, Oct 15, 2025 9:00 - 11:00am
Join us for our free monthly blood pressure and glucose screenings. Walk-ins welcome. Provided by Seekonk’s Public Health Nurse.
The center is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 8:30am - 4:30pm, and Wednesday 8:30am - 5:30pm and Friday 8:30am - 12:00pm. We welcome all to come and enjoy the activities and companionship at Seekonk Human Services.
Let’s Learn Together!
Tuesday, Oct 28, 2025 at 2:30pm
Do you have questions about using your smartphone or tablet? Bring them to the Tech Help Hour. The goal of this session is to help each other learn how to use technology better. There is no set agenda. This program is provided by Seekonk Public Library staff. Bring your own tablet, phone or laptop. Please make sure your device is fully charged. Preregistration is required.
Learning Mahjong
Thursdays - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Have you ever been mesmerized by the clinking of Mahjong tiles or the camaraderie of players around a table? Learning Mahjong is more than just mastering a game - it’s about embracing a rich tradition and connecting with others. So, why not come to our Senior Center to start this exciting journey and dive into this centuries-old game of skill and strategy. Preregistration is required.
Community Support Group
Join Melissa Stefanik with Bristol Hospice for a monthly Community Support Group. Growing older can bring unique joys, but also some challenges. Come share your experiences and find comfort in community all while receiving encouragement, resources, and practice tips. Topics to include grief, caregiver support, senior community resources and more. Community Support Group will be held every 4th Tuesday of the month at 10am. Preregistration is required.
Fuel Assistance
If you had fuel assistance last year, be on the look-out for your application. File the application as soon as you get it. If you have never had fuel assistance and would like to apply or if you need help filing your application, please call Seekonk Human Services at 508-336-8772 to make an appointment with the Outreach Department. Fuel assistance applications accepted Nov 1, 2025 until April 30, 2026.
Income Guidelines: 4 Week Income: for 1 person is $3,982, for 2 people is $5,208, for 3 people is $6,433, and for 4 people is $7,659.
Income Guidelines: 4 Week Fixed: for 1 person is $4,314, for 2 people is $5,642, for 3 people is $6,970 and for 4 people is $8,297.
Tuesday Luncheon at 12:00pm
Seekonk Human Services has partnered with The Hamilton Diner to offer weekly lunches! Lunches will cost $7 for residents and $8 for nonresidents. The menu will be available at the office and on Facebook. On the last Tuesday of each month, we will be celebrating Seekonk Senior’s birthday. On your birth month you will only pay $2.00 for that lunch (Seekonk residents only).
Nutritional Meals to Go
Tues / Weds / Thurs
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 Oct menu is available at our office and on our Facebook page.
Daylight Savings
Don’t forget to turn back your clocks for Daylight Savings ends on Nov 2, 2025.
Brandon Walecka, Esq., LL.M from Walecka Law will be providing office hours by appointment. The mini-consultations will center around elder law topics such as probate, questions regarding making a will (other power of attorney, health care proxy, etc.), trusts (irrevocable and revocable), Medicaid/MassHealth rules and eligibility, tax planning and special needs planning. These consults are focused on elder law and estate planning. MA residents only. Preregistration is required and opens Oct 15, 2025.
Veterans’ Day Celebration
Wed, Nov 5, 2025 at 11:30am
Join us for our annual Veterans Day Celebration with musical entertainment by the Navy Band. Lunch will be FREE for Seekonk Veterans. Lunch will be chicken salad sliders with potato salad. The fee for residents is $10.00 and non-residents is $13.00. All registrations are due by 10/31. Preregistration is required and opens Oct 15, 2025.
Seekonk Veterans’ Coffee Hour
Monday, Nov 10, 2025 at 2:00pm
Come and join our Veterans Service Officer, James LaFlame for a Coffee Hour with our Veterans. This will be a monthly event.
For the first event, there will be two invited guests; one from VA Healthcare and another from the State Bonus Office. Stations will be set up afterwards for those wishing to check on their eligibility for VA Healthcare and those who may be owed money under the state’s Welcome Home Bonus program. The VSO will also be able to look up discharge documents for those missing their DD214s or other military records.
Hearing Clinic
Mon, Nov 10, 2025 - 1:00 - 3:00pm
Lauren Warburton from At Home Hearing Healthcare will be here for a Hearing Clinic. They specialize in detecting and resolving issues with hearing loss. Individuals will be advised regarding the next steps for pursuing proper treatment. They do accept MassHealth. Preregistration is required and opens Oct 15, 2025.
Basic Beginner ASL - Sign Language Class
Weds 9:30am - 11:30am
Sign Language class, this is a word for word ASL class. You will learn words, sentences and choruses. Class meets every Wed. You will be using the book, “The Joy of Signing”. The session will be ending Nov 12, 2025 Preregistration is required.
Friendsgiving
Wed, Nov 12, 2025 @ 11:30am
We invite you to our fourth annual Friendsgiving. Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on what and who we are grateful for over the past year. The best way to share those reflections is around the Thanksgiving table. Join us for a delicious Thanksgiving meal with good company and conversation. The fee for residents is $10.00 and non-residents is $13.00. Preregistration is required and opens Oct 15, 2025.
Healthy Aging Lunch & Learn
Wed, Nov 19, 2025 at 11:30am
“Healthy Holiday Eating” for healthy aging! The presentation will be about debunking common nutrition advice seen across television and in the media. Bristol Aging and Wellness Registered Dietitian, Dawn DiMarco will be presenting. Most nutrition advice in the media is not accurate. If you are looking for nutrition advice, always ask a Registered Dietitian. The menu will be: meatloaf, gravy, mashed potatoes, green beans, dinner rolls and dessert. Preregistration is required and opens Oct 15, 2025.
Diabetes Presentation
Monday, Nov 24, 2025 at 2:00pm
We will be having a presentation hosted
by our Public Health Nurse, Lisa Valente, RN, CDOE. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Diabetes Association, about 38 million people are living with Diabetes in the United States. Join us to learn about risk factors, warning signs and symptoms, and prevention strategies to help manage the condition to help support living a healthier life. Preregistration is required and opens Oct 15, 2025.
Parks & Recreation
With the Fall season upon us comes a few more community opportunities for Seekonk Parks and Recreation. We will be participating in two trunk or treat events this year. We will be participating in The Hamilton Diners’ trunk or treat that is on the calendar for Oct 18, 2025. We also will be at the George R. Martin School PTO and Mildred H. Aitken School PTO for Sunday, Oct 26, 2025 from 3pm—5pm at the Seekonk High School.
Holiday Assistance
If you or someone you know is in need of help during the holiday season, please have them call us at 508-336-8772, to see if we are able to assist.
Families with children under the age of 12 that are in need of help with gifts, please call us at 508-336- 8772 to inquire about an application for Christmas is for Kids. Applications are due by Monday, December 1, 2025.
Medicare Open Enrollment
It’s that time of year again! If you are enrolled in a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan or a Medicare Advantage Plan (HMO/ PPO), expect an information from your current plan. It is important to understand and save this information: it explains the changes in your plan for 2026. Premiums, deductibles, co-pays, and the drugs covered by your plan can change significantly!
During Medicare Open Enrollment, you can adjust your plan for next year. Independent Insurance Counselors can help you understand your plan changes as well as other options you may have. Open Enrollment runs from Oct 15 through December 7! Forms due by Nov 7, 2025 to guarantee they get completed.
*Please note all clients will be required to fill out a Medicare prescreening form to help us better serve you by looking up your current plan and comparing it to the future plans, if changes are necessary.
Telephone Reassurance Program
Our office will make a telephone call to an individual’s home at approximately the same time each day Monday through Friday
(during our operating business hours only). This program is designed to connect people in need with ongoing, caring human contact and conversation. If we do not receive an answer, we will call back shortly after. If we do not receive an answer the second time, Public Safety will be called to check on the individual’s status. The Telephone Reassurance Program provides a peace of mind for the individual and their loved ones. This program is designed for senior citizens, disabled persons and shut-ins living in Seekonk who may be at risk of loneliness, social isolation, illness or injury. If you, or you know someone you know is interested in this program, please call Nicole at Human Services at 508-336-8772.
Medical Loan Closet
Our FREE Medical Loan Closet is available for Seekonk residents. Our inventory is dependent on donated items received, but may be limited based on need and space. For more information, please call 508-3368772 *30 Day Rental
Exercise Classes
Mondays
Movement & Meditation 10am Strength & Cardio 1pm
Tuesdays
Drums Alive 9am
Wednesdays
Stability and Balance 8:30am
Drums Alive 9:30am
Thursdays
Mat Exercise 9am
Movement & Meditation 10am
Fridays
Dance Cardio 9:15am
Tai Chi 10:30am
*All activities are subject to pre-registration
Games
Play an old favorite or learn something new!
• Canasta - Mondays at 11am. A card game of the Rummy family
• Backgammon - Tuesdays at 2pm.
• Hi-Low Jack (Pitch) - Tues & Thurs at 1pm. Win the game by having the highest card played in the trump suit
• Mahjong - Wed at 1pm. Mahjong is a game of skill and chance that originated in China
• Cribbage - Thurs at 11am. The first person to peg 121 points at the end of the board is the winner
• BINGO - Thurs at 1pm. Regular games $1.00 for 6 games. Specials $2.00 per game. A game of chance played with cards having numbered squares corresponding to numbers drawn at random
Email List
Join our email list! Things are changing so quickly these days and we want to be able to get the word out to you quickly. Please give us a call and give us your email address; we want to share fun activities, links to zoon and other virtual programing you may like.
The center is open Monday -Thursday 8:15am - 4:00pm and Friday 8:15am12:00pm. Come and enjoy the activities and companionship at your center. Join our email list! Things are changing quickly these days and we want to be able to get the word out to you quickly. Please give us a call and give us your email address. We want to share fun activities, links to Zoom and virtual programs.
* NOTE: *Seekonk Human Services is primarily an informational and referral agency. We try to help you directly or by introducing you to a network of federal, state, or local support services. Seekonk Human Services offers legal, financial, recreational, medical screenings, and other activities/services by volunteers or nominally paid practitioners. Participation in these services/activities is with the understanding that Seekonk Human Services, Town of Seekonk, or its employees do not assume any legal or other responsibility for advice of services rendered by such volunteers or nominal cost practitioners.
Compassionate caring every step of the way
For nearly 50 years, HopeHealth has offered comfort and hope through even the toughest health challenges. It’s our privilege to care for our patients and their loved ones at every stage of serious illness providing hospice and palliative care, dementia and Alzheimer’s services as well as caregiver and grief support programs.
Learn more about our services by calling (844) 671-4673 or visit HopeHealthCo.org.
Saturday, October 25, 2025 10 am – 2 pm
Seekonk Knights of Columbus will host their 5th annual charity craft fair, at 532 Arcade Ave., Seekonk, MA 02771.
Come shop unique, handmade treasures and holiday delights! Fantastic vendors include: woodworking, pet supplies, crafts and holiday items, Christmas and stocking stuffers, decorative paintings, bake sale, free face painting for kids under 45, and so much more! Visit us on FaceBook.
Rain date is Sunday, October 26, 2025
Rehoboth Anawan Lions October News
This month the Rehoboth Anawan Lions are meeting on October 9th at Davenports Restaurant at 6:30. We will be hosting a membership meeting for those who are; or who might be interested in joining our Club. Our District Governor will be joining our meeting. We also have a magician coming to entertain us. This is an exciting opportunity to learn more about our Club and the great things we do! Please call our President Lisa Halajko at 774-991-0052 if you would like to attend. Come and learn how We Serve!!
Hornbine School Apple Days October 26th
Join us for APPLE DAYS at the Hornbine School Museum on Sunday, OCTOBER 26TH from 2 – 4 PM. ($5 donation per family appreciated)
REFRESHMENTS: Enjoy CIDER & DONUTS.
CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES: Make your own CORN HUSK DOLL. Take part in our SCAVENGER HUNTS. Play several OLD TIME GAMES. Write with a real INK FEATHER PEN and/or SLATE PENCIL.
YARD SALE: Bring your own table, rent a space for $5 and sell your items. Questions, ask Dawn at hornbineschool@gmail.com
DISPLAYS: We have our newest display of items found on the property with a metal detector. Enjoy a photo art exhibit of
Rehoboth’s historic school building and costumed young visitors. We have a continuous video loop of Hornbine School Museum pictures and activities related to the building as well
Hornbine Young lady rolling the barrel hoop
NOTE: We are open on Sunday, October 12th from 2 – 4 pm as well as the 26th.
The Hornbine one-room schoolhouse was built in the 1840s and is located at 146 Hornbine Road in Rehoboth, MA. Look for us on Facebook, on our website or You tube.
Events at the Seekonk American Legion Post 311
Fall Psychic Fair – October 26th
We will be holding our Fall Psychic Fair on Sunday, 10/26/25. Admission is free. 15-minute readings are $20.00 each. There will also be several Vendors and Crafters. Doors open at 9:45 am. Readings 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.
Participating Readers at this event: Beverly Sylvia – Psychic, Spirit Medium, Annalise Hajer - Spiritual Medium, Debbie Matthews - Spiritual Psychic Medium, Susan Aubin – Medium, Dorothy Raposa - Psychic Medium, Psychometry, Card Reader, Kathy Costa – Medium, Card Reader, Maureen Brown – Psychic Medium, Reiki Master Healer, Tarot Card Interpreter, Ryan – Reiki, Astrid Meijer– Akashic Records Reader, Anne Hartnett - Intuitive Tarot, Medium and Reiki, Donna Noonan - Angel Intuitive, Tarot, Oracle Card Reader, Dawn Lorraine – Tarot, Oracle Readings.
Participating Crafters/Vendors: Emma Healey from Crystal Healing Arts selling crystals and handmade items, Runners by Lois G. selling homemade table runners, Chair Massage with Gabby, Sleepy and Crafty selling crochet decor and wearables, and Wine Cork Creations.
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Time for Fall Cleanups!
• Reclaim your yard from woods encroachment. Removal of dead trees, shrubs, stumps & vines
• Excavation & Drainage Solutions
• In-ground and above-ground pool removal
Donations for Veteran Food Pantry
A donation bin will be located in the lobby of the Seekonk American Legion Post from Oct 15th to Nov 16th for non-perishable food and toiletries. All donations will be given to Operation Stand Down RI for their Veteran’s Food Pantry.
Fall Meat Raffles for 4 Saturdays starting 10/18
Meat Raffles will be held on the following Saturdays; 10/18, 10/25, 11/1 and 11/8 starting at 2 pm. There are 3 tables of steaks, chicken, pork, seafood, TV and other prizes. 50/50 raffles. Kitchen opens at 1 pm. For more information call 508-336-9822.
Music at the American Legion
Friday Night Bands – No Cover Charge - starts at 7 pm
Jukebox Heroes - 10/4
Hall Rental
150 person capacity. Contact Bob Reed for information at 508-336-9822; 351 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA 02771; 508-336-9822 Seekonkpost311.org
A Lion Great: The Legacy of George Poli
By Paul Buckley
For over four decades, George Poli has been a steadfast cornerstone of the Seekonk community, embodying the true spirit of service and leadership. As a proud member of the Seekonk Lions Club for more than 40 years, George has dedicated his life to making a difference—serving in every officer position the Seekonk club has to offer, including twice holding the esteemed role of President. His unwavering commitment to service has not gone unnoticed; George is a proud recipient of the Melvin Jones Fellowship, an honor bestowed upon those who exemplify the highest ideals of humanitarian service. But his contributions extend beyond the Lions Club. From 2000 to 2002, George also served on the Seekonk Board of Selectmen, where his dedication to the community was evident in every decision and action.
George ran the “famous clam boils” for many years for the Seekonk Lions club. He was the captain and directed the workers like a Sargeant in the marines. It was a serious 2 hours working under George. He demanded perfection ensuring all those who paid all you can eat clams got their money worth. And when it was over, you could see George walking away carrying his stainlesssteel bowl full of hot dogs, sausage and potatoes as “it makes a great breakfast”.
George also devoted a significant part of his life to education. He was a dedicated teacher at East Providence High School, retiring at the age of 62. Throughout his teaching career, George touched countless lives. Nearly everywhere he goes, he is recognized as “Mr. Poli” from his students way back in the day. George taught all
levels of math—except calculus, which he famously hated. When he worked at the Naval Base as a young man, even the engineers there rarely used calculus. He told me a story when in college at URI, he had to purchase a slide rule for his calculus class. Two years later he went to URI and tried to sell it back!
Today, George (86 years young) resides in Coventry, Rhode Island, living comfortably with his daughter and son-in-law on the tranquil waters of Johnsons Pond. His days are filled with simple pleasures—visiting friends at the Legion, singing karaoke (he has a very good voice), and heading out onto the pond with his family for fishing. Currently, George is working on losing some weight so he can get his own individual kayak—something he’s looking forward to, so he can enjoy the water on his own.
One of George’s most beloved contributions to the community is his involvement with the Doug Allan Memorial Fishing Tournament. This event, held annually at Grist Mill Pond in Seekonk, has been a cherished tradition for 14 years. While some days bring plentiful catches and others are a bit sparser, you can always count on George—the “Fishing Guy”—to ensure that the kids who participate have a fantastic time. This tournament stands out as one of George’s most meaningful contributions to the town, fostering community spirit and creating lasting memories for young anglers.
George is more than just a leader; he is a man of the community—a man who enriches those around him with his vast knowledge and stories. Give him the opportunity, and he will enthrall you with fascinating facts across many categories, each story reflecting his lifelong commitment to serve. Just imagine, this could be you serving your community like George. It is time to start your legacy with the Seekonk Lions Club.
Come see us at Ledgemont CC 7pm for our next meeting on October 16, 2025. Great food and cocktails start at 6:30pm. Paul
American Legion Post 302 Public Events
• Try our Fish & Chips or Specials of the Week – every Thursday 4:00 till 7:00 P.M. & Fridays 4:00 – 7:30PM and Saturdays with a Band ONLY 6:00-7:30PM.Take Outs are welcome – call in your order in early for pickup at 508-252-9079
• “QUEEN OF HEARTS” drawing every Friday night at 8:00 PM
• Prize Bingo - 4th Sunday of every month at 5:00PM
• NEW POOL TABLE Come and have some fun
• 2nd Sunday of Every Month, “All you can Eat Breakfast” 7:30am – 10:30am - Bar opens at 10!
• Check us out on Facebook - Photos since 2018 posted by our patrons… https://www.facebook.com/pages/American-LegionHall/258235277540573 For Events: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/
Upcoming Events
• October 10th, 2025 – Friday - 7:00-10:00 P.M. - Notorious Jones +2 Entertainment with Classic Rock Music – Food Specials of the Week – Drinks – Dancing – Electronic Dart Board & have a GREAT TIME! https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100063368911454
• “Special” OCTOBER 11th, 2025 - Saturday – 12:00 Poker Run, starts in Berkley…..
• “Special” OCTOBER 11th, 2025- Saturday – 5:00 - 7:00 P.M. –American Legions Annual Pig Feast “Pulled Pork” with the master chef Mike McCarthy-– Food – Drinks – PLUS + 5:00-8:00 PMDancing - Live Music performed by Notorious Jones Entertainment with Classical Rock Music
• October 11th, 2025 – Saturday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – Mike Higgins & The Dynamics - Live Music Entertainment playing Classic, Rock & Country - No Cover Charge! – Bar Food – Kitchens open – Fish
& Chips - Check with the bar for the Specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, Dancing so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Mike and The Dynamics |Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ profile.php?id=100063173623981
• October 12th, 2025 – Sunday -7:30 -10:30 A.M. American Legion Monthly Breakfast, Second Sunday of every month $12.00 donation - All you can Eat!
• October 17th, 2025 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – Rock-A-Blues Band with Classic Rock Music – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! https://www.rockablues.com
• October 18th, 2025 – Saturday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – HALL RENTED – PRIVATE HOLLOWEEN PARTY
• October 24th, 2025 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M - RHODE RAGE, Classic Rock – No Cover Charge! – Bar Food – Kitchens open – Fish & Chips - Check with the bar for the Specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, Dancing so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play Pool
• October 25th, 2025 - Saturday - 7:00-10:00 P.M., On3 Entertainment, Classic Rock – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back and enjoy
• October 26th, 2025 – Sunday -5:00 -8:00 P.M. Prize BINGO! American Legion Auxiliary, Fourth Sunday of every month $10.00 donation per 5 Games – Food – Drinks & having a GREAT TIME!
• October 31st, 2025 – Friday - 6:00-8:00 P.M., Sons of the American Legion’s Monthly Meat Raffle followed by Karaoke8:00-11:00 P.M. – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Singing, Dancing & having a GREAT TIME!
• October 31st, 2025 – Friday - 8:00-11:00 P.M. + – Live Karaoke performed by our own Karaoke Entertainment, Come on in and sing a song or two – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME!
• November 1st, 2025 – Saturday - 7:00-10:00 P.M. - “3 CAN JAM” from Attleboro - Live Music Entertainment playing Classic & Rock – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Dancing & having a GREAT TIME! https://www.facebook.com/3CANJAM/
Sine Plumbing & Heating
SCOUTING AROUND
Seekonk Scouts Start the School Year Strong
Seekonk Troop 1 Scouts started the new scout year with a camping trip to Mount Washington in New Hampshire. The Scouts were rewarded with picturesque views during the strenuous hike up the mountain. They enjoyed lunch at the mountaintop and returned from the weekend encouraged by their accomplishment.
Troop 9 Seekonk, our girls’ Troop, conducted a joint hike to Blue Hills Reservation in Milton, MA, with scouts from Cranston, RI. The two troops met at Camp Yawgoog this summer and instantly formed friendships among members of the two troops.
Troop 1 and Troop 9 hosted an open house recruitment event at Hurley Middle School. Both troops held demonstrations to show potential new members some of the fun activities associated with Scouting, including setting up a tent and campsite.
Troop 1 and Troop 9 are both planning additional trips and adventures, including Adventure at the Fort in Newport, RI, this October. Scouts should expect an exciting weekend camping experience that allows participating scouts to camp inside the fort at Fort Adams in Newport, RI.
Also, at the end of October, be on the lookout for our annual Scouting for Food flyers. Scouting for Food is our annual food collection drive, organized by Scouting America. Scouts will be in local neighborhoods, dropping off flyers to remind residents when and where to place non-perishable food items on November 1, 2025, to support Doorways Food Pantry in Seekonk.
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.
Checking the map.
Troop 1 Seekonk Eagle Scouts Celebrated
Troop 1 Seekonk is proud to announce 5 Scouts who have recently earned the rank of Eagle Scout, Scouting America’s highest honor – Alexander Gries, Jake Conceicao, Matthew Cabral, James Clark and Maxwell Duffy.
To achieve this distinguished milestone, each Scout completed a rigorous set of requirements, including a significant community service project, demonstrating leadership, perseverance, and dedication. Below the Eagle Scouts have reflected on their projects and their time in Scouting.
This summer, friends, family and local leaders gathered for a ceremony to celebrate the accomplishments of Troop 1 Seekonk’s newest Eagle Scouts.
Matthew Cabral
After 11 years of scouting between Pack 88 and Troop 1, Matt Cabral reached the rank of Eagle in January 2025. During his scouting career, Matt participated in countless food drives, six years at Camp Yawgoog, completed over 30 merit badges, and even stayed on an abandoned island in the southernmost part of the United States in the Florida Keys.
Matt chose to complete his Eagle Project at the American Legion in East Providence where he replaced a fence, built new horseshoe pits, beautification of the area and adding benches for the veterans to enjoy the outdoors.
While in scouting, Matt learned many life lessons that would not be available to him without his experiences in scouting, along with growing close with his peers both in the Troop, and the Order of the Arrow.
Matt graduated from Saint Raphael Academy in June, and will be attending Eastern Connecticut State University where he will be majoring in nursing along with being on their swim team.
Jake Conceicao
Jake’s Eagle Project was the construction of 3 mobile carts for a local camp, named Kamp Konk. He has been going there since he was in 1st grade. These carts are for helping the local camp transport their equipment for certain classes to where they need to be.
Jake has earned 31 Merit Badges and has also earned Brotherhood within the Order of the Arrow. Jake attended NYLT (National Youth Leadership Training). He joined Cub Scouts Pack 88 Rumford as a tiger, and attended for all 5 years.
Jake’s favorite trips to go on were the white-water rafting trips in the summer as well as going to Yawgoog for a week. Jake had the opportunity to go on a high adventure trip to Key West Florida, also known as Sea Base. This was one of the best trips he has ever been on. He was able to do something that he enjoyed all day long, fish.
He graduated from Seekonk High school in May, and will be attending Dean College in Franklin, MA this fall as a Business Management student.
Maxwell Duffy
Max’s Eagle Scout project was the creation of 8 bog bridges along the perimeter trail of Caratunk Wildlife Refuge. The bridges help with accessibility throughout the trails especially during the wet season where it is harder to walk throughout parts of the trail. The bridge consisted of cutting and bringing wood deep into the refuge, where frames were constructed and placed and finally the top planks to finish off the bridges and took 2 days to complete.
During Max’s time with the troop he has completed 29 merit badges, earning his bronze palm, he has earned 2 National Rifle Association awards, he has done over 80 hours of community service and has camped over 30 nights, most of which at Camp Yawgoog. He was also previously a Cub Scout with Pack 88, starting out as a tiger all the way to Arrow of Light where he eventually crossed over to Troop 1 Seekonk.
Max is going into his senior year at Seekonk High School with dedication and concentration to STEM classes and activities earning him a STEM certificate. After high school Max plans to attend college and major in computer engineering.
Jake created supply carts for Kamp Konk.
Matt made site repairs to the East Providence American Legion.
Max built bog bridges at Caratunk Wildlife Refuge.
James Clark
James’ Eagle Scout Project provided storage for a local community theatre company, East End Theatre and Performing Arts. This theater company inspired him to pursue his career and fills a need for the surrounding towns by creating a supportive culture and providing inexpensive dramatic arts to people who might otherwise never have the opportunity to perform. The project involved building a unit that stored 16 heavy-duty crates and a ceiling-height hanging clothes closet. Supplies for the project were donated from community members’ basements and attics and gifted by a local hardware store. The project required three sessions with 12 total scouts to clear and organize the costumes, make, and finally install the units.
James first started scouts with Cub Scouts in Pack 88, with the encouragement and support of his stepfather. He earned 23 merit badges during his time as a Scout. His two favorite badge experiences were the astronomy merit badge and the chess merit badge. James’ favorite scout activity has always been the campouts. He particularly loved the Highland Games, where activities like building a bagpipe and sheep toss provided a space for the scouts to grow closer.
In school, James graduated as a member of the National Honors Society, Drama Club, Model UN, and as a varsity runner for the schools’ Cross Country and Outdoor Track and Field teams. James will be pursuing a Musical Theatre BFA at Molloy University/CAP21 on Long Island and New York City.
Alexander Gries
Alex’s Eagle Project was building boundary fences for Winslow Farm Animal Sanctuary. He always liked animals and Winslow’s goal of saving and protecting injured and abandoned animals really resonated with Alex. He first visited Winslow as part of a Cub Scout outing and then volunteered for them a few times before deciding to also do his eagle project there. One side to the sanctuary’s fencing was falling apart so he not only fixed up the old fence that was there, but also helped to put in a new fence to keep the animals safe.
Alex started his journey as a tiger in Pack 88 Rumford and worked his way up into Boy Scouts where he earned 40 merit badges. Alex is also a brotherhood member in the Order of the Arrow, and acted as the representative for the OA within the troop for a while. Throughout his time in scouting Alex volunteered 160 hours, and camped over 100 nights. Some of his favorite trips were the bike trips, white-water rafting, and mountain hikes, his favorite trip ever though was the week they got to spend in the Florida Keys.
He just graduated from Tri-county RVTHS and in the fall will be attending Champlain College in Burlington, VT for Game Art.
Your food donations will stay in Seekonk to support the clients of the Doorways Food Pantry.
How to Donate: Place non-perishable food near your mailbox or at the end of your driveway by 9am. Scouts will collect the donations and bring them to Doorways.
James built storage solutions for East End Theatre & Performing Arts.
Alex installed a boundary fence at Winslow Farm
New Exploremores™ Girl Scout Sandwich Cookie
Joins Nationwide Lineup for 2026 Season
Taking after the classic chocolate treat, the new rocky road ice cream–inspired cookie captures the limitless spirit of exploration that drives Girl Scouts.
Girl Scouts of Southeastern New England is excited to announced that Exploremores™, a rocky road ice cream–inspired sandwich cookie, will join the lineup for the 2026 Girl Scout Cookie season! Filled with delicious flavors of chocolate, marshmallow and toasted almond–flavored crème, Exploremores reflect the spirit of exploration at the heart of every Girl Scout.
Each cookie season, through the Girl Scout Cookie Program, Girl Scouts push their limits, embrace challenges, think creatively, and believe in their own potential. While earning skill-building badges such as the My First Cookie Business, My Cookie Customer, and My Cookie Team badges, Girl Scouts acquire leadership and entrepreneurial tools needed for brighter futures. As entrepreneurs, Girl Scouts master the ability to set goals, make decisions, manage money, develop people skills, and learn business ethics.
Every purchase of Exploremores—and the entire lineup of iconic Girl Scout Cookies— helps girls unbox a world of possibilities, one cookie at a time. With each cookie box sold, consumers are supporting Girl Scouts as they learn, grow and thrive through all of life’s adventures. All proceeds from cookie sales stay local with Girl Scout councils and troops to help fund life-changing programs, experiences and learnings all year long.
Girl Scout Cookie season is recognized locally from December through March; visit www.girlscoutcookies.org to sign up to be notified as soon as Exploremores and other Girl Scout Cookies are on sale in your area. Text “Cookies” to 59618 to get the latest Girl Scout Cookie news. Life’s more fun when you explore more!
People In The News
Andrew Lancellotta Graduates as a Young Marine
PFC Lancellotta
Andrew Lancellotta, age 12, of Rehoboth, graduated recruitment from the Fall River Young Marines on Sunday, June 29th. Andrew graduated at the top of his class earning him the “Recruit Honor Graduate” ribbon along with being promoted as a Young Marine. Andrew also received ribbons for becoming the only Private First Class, Academic Achievement award, Basic First Aid and Physical Fitness.
To learn more about the Fall River Young Marines National Youth Leadership Program, please visit https:// frym.org/
Rehoboth Animal Shelter Announces New Volunteer Gwen Anderson
research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. The Jimmy Fund Walk will aim to raise $9.5 million this year in the effort to prevent, treat, and defy cancer.
“For 36 years, the Jimmy Fund Walk has been a cornerstone of support for lifesaving cancer research and patient care at DanaFarber,” said Caitlin Fink, vice president of The Jimmy Fund. “Every participant contributes directly to advancing lifesaving research and critically important cancer care. Walk Day is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of hope and the shared commitment of the Jimmy Fund community.”
One Walk, Four Distances, For All Cancers
The Jimmy Fund Walk takes place along the famed Boston Marathon® course, and participants have the flexibility to choose from four distance options: 5K walk (from Dana-Farber’s Longwood Medical Campus); 10K walk (from Newton); Half Marathon walk (from Wellesley); and Marathon walk (from Hopkinton). Walkers who prefer to participate virtually can complete their chosen distance from any location.
Rehoboth Animal Shelter would like to announce our newest volunteer Gwen Anderson, Owner of Trust & Harmony Mobile Dog Grooming. Like us, Gwen is passionate about all types of animals, especially dogs. Well educated in the dog grooming services, Gwen continually furthers her education by attending seminars, workshops and advanced training courses. When Gwen approached the Rehoboth Animal Shelter volunteering her mobile dog grooming services, how could we say no! Gwen recognizes a dog living at the shelter can be stressed, and believes while waiting for adoption, the dog should still look its best. So, if you see Gwen driving her Trust & Harmony Mobile Grooming van through town, give her a wave. If you see Gwen coming out of a store, please say thank you for her volunteer work at the shelter. Everyone at the Rehoboth Animal Shelter is thrilled to have Gwen as part of the team. If you like to learn more about Gwen Anderson, and her mobile dog grooming services, please visit www.trustandharmony.com.
Rehoboth Residents to Participate in the 37th Annual Jimmy Fund Walk
Paul Chaves, Caitlin Freeborn and Garrett Long will join thousands in the iconic fundraising walk for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute to support all forms of cancer research and care
Rehoboth, Mass.—Four residents from Rehoboth will participate in the 2025 Jimmy Fund Walk presented by Hyundai on Sunday, October 5.
Paul Chaves, Caitlin Freeborn, Garrett Long and Angela Morabito along with thousands of other walkers, will participate in the iconic annual event that will unite the community to raise funds to support all forms of adult and pediatric care and
Whatever route participants choose, they will be supported by hundreds of volunteers and treated to refueling stations with refreshments throughout the course. Walkers will be motivated by poster-sized photographs of Walk Heroes that appear along the course as inspiration. All routes will conclude at the Jimmy Fund Walk Finish Line Powered by Schneider Electric at Boston Common, by the corner of Charles and Beacon Street. Finish line activities will include a celebration with food, entertainment, and more.
o register for the Walk (#JimmyFundWalk) or to support a walker, visit www.JimmyFundWalk.org or call 866-531-9255. Registrants can enter the promo code NEWS for $5 off the registration fee. All registered walkers will receive a bib, medal, and a Jimmy Fund Walk T-shirt. You can also sign up to volunteer on Walk day.
About the Jimmy Fund
The Jimmy Fund, established in Boston in 1948, is comprised of community-based fundraising events and other programs that, solely and directly, benefit Dana-Farber Cancer Institute’s lifesaving mission to provide compassionate patient care and groundbreaking cancer research for children and adults. The Jimmy Fund is an official charity of the Boston Red Sox, the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association, the Pan-Mass Challenge, and the Variety Children’s Charity of New England. Since 1948, the generosity of millions of people has helped Dana-Farber save countless lives and reduce the burden of cancer for patients and families worldwide. Follow the Jimmy Fund on Facebook, X, and Instagram: @ TheJimmyFund.
About Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is one of the world’s leading centers of cancer research and treatment. Dana-Farber’s mission is to reduce the burden of cancer through scientific inquiry, clinical care, education, community engagement, and advocacy. Dana-Farber is a federally designated Comprehensive Cancer Center and a teaching affiliate of Harvard Medical School.
Dana-Farber provides the latest treatments in cancer for adults through Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center and for children through Dana-Farber/Boston Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Center. Dana-Farber is the only hospital nationwide with a top 5 U.S. News & World Report Best Cancer Hospital ranking in both adult and pediatric care.
As a global leader in oncology, Dana-Farber is dedicated to a unique and equal balance between cancer research and care, translating the results of discovery into new treatments for patients locally and around the world, offering more than 1,100 clinical trials.
Gwen Anderson and Leo (adopted on Sept. 23rd, 2025)
University News
University News
Rehoboth's Hailey McCracken Enrolls at
The College of the Holy Cross
Worcester, MA -- The College of the Holy Cross is excited to welcome Hailey McCracken of Rehoboth as a member of the College's Class of 2029.
Local Students Named to Holy Cross' Spring 2025 Dean's List
Worcester, MA -- College of the Holy Cross congratulates the students named to the Spring 2025 Dean's List for outstanding academic achievement during the spring semester of the 2024-25 academic year.
Rehoboth: Nathan Howard, Class of 2025
Seekonk: Kate Leinson, Class of 2026; Isabella Rosa, Class of 2027
SNHU Announces Summer 2025 President's List
Manchester, NH -- It is with great pleasure that Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) congratulates the following students on being named to the Summer 2025 President's List. Full-time undergraduate students who have earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.700 and above for the reporting term are named to the President's List. Full-time status is achieved by earning 12 credits over each 16-week term or paired 8-week terms grouped in fall, winter/spring, and summer.
Local Students Contribute through Emmanuel Day of Service
Boston, MA -- More than 360 first-year students at Emmanuel College to make an immediate impact in the community through the New Student Day of Service.
Rising early on the last day of summer vacation, the students volunteered at food shelves, homeless shelters, and other organizations that meet vital community needs through the day of service. The following local students participated: Santiago Giron of Seekonk Gianely Ramos of Rehoboth
Isabella Saumweber Receives Elmira College Key Award
Elmira, NY -- Isabella Saumweber of Rehoboth, MA, received the Elmira College Key Award for academic and community leadership. A tradition that goes back to 1935, the EC Key Award is presented to outstanding students in their junior year of high school or preparatory school.
I am truly grateful to have received this award and to be recognized by my colleagues as a REALTOR® Emeritus. It’s an honor to be acknowledged for my years of service and dedication to the profession.
Insurance Considerations
Written by Lars Lambrecht, CFP, CLU, BFA, AMPA, CDFA, CLTC, CSLP, owner of Island Time Financial Services, Inc.
The topic of insurance is quite expansive. This article covers some of the basic considerations and strategies.
Life Insurance:
There are two key questions to address with life insurance. How much should you have, and what type is the best to have? The most popular type of life insurance is term insurance, which is generally the least expensive option. With term insurance, you go through underwriting and have a fixed premium for a set term, such as 10 years or 20 years. At the end of the term, you need to reapply to maintain your health rating, or the premiums increase significantly. Term insurance is great for needs with a fixed period of time, such as when your child turns 21 or your mortgage is paid off. In contrast, permanent insurance has a higher premium but is designed to stay in force at a fixed premium forever. Permanent insurance might make sense if you think you will need the insurance for a long time, such as if you have a special needs child or own a business with a buy-sell agreement. Permanent insurance can also be integrated with long-term care, so the death benefit is prepaid if you need care. Permanent insurance generally builds a cash value, which can be borrowed against or cashed in. If you have permanent insurance, it is recommended you obtain an inforce illustration from the company every 2 years. This illustration shows the “health” of your policy and what will happen to your coverage over time.
Disability Insurance:
Most employers provide a base level (such as 60% of compensation) of disability insurance as an employee benefit. Most employer plans are taxed if you ever collect benefits. In contrast, if you buy disability insurance on your own, the benefits are received tax-free. Disability insurance provides benefits if you are unable to work for medical reasons. In some cases, it makes sense to supplement coverage through your employer, based on your overall finances.
Long-Term Care Insurance:
Long-term care insurance (LTCI) is designed to provide resources if you need care as you get older, such as homecare or
nursing home care. There are several types of LTCI and the products are fairly complex. Most policies have a set premium for life. It is possible to have a policy that is paid up after one or a certain number of payments. Some LTCI plans integrate with life insurance, so the policy pays a benefit if you die as well as a benefit if you need care. As a general rule, we recommend that you plan on a premium equal to 1% of your investment assets. As an example, if your portfolio is $500,000, you might want a policy with an annual premium of $5,000. Most clients start looking at LTCi in their 50s.
Property Casualty Insurance:
Lars Lambrecht
Common property casualty insurance includes homeowners (renters), vehicle (boat/motorcycle) and umbrella coverage. It is important to review your deductible. If you have a good cash reserve, you may be able to save some money with a $1,000 or $2,500 deductible. It is also important to ensure you have enough liability coverage. Depending on your assets, many people should have auto coverage of $250,000 per person and $500,000 per accident. In Massachusetts your auto liability shows up in Parts 3, 5 and 12. Most people have $500,000 of home liability coverage, but the costs are normally nominal to increase this coverage to $1 million. If you have valuable jewelry, art or collectibles, they should be insured with a specific endorsement. You may also want to have at least $1 million of umbrella coverage. This type of policy provides additional coverage if your home or auto liability coverage is exhausted. Rates on this type of insurance have been going up at a rapid pace. I recommend working with an independent insurance agent that shops your coverage on an annual basis. There can be a fair amount of disparity between carriers. You also often get discounts by combining all of your coverages with one company.
Lars Lambrecht, Rehoboth resident and Certified Financial Planner, is available to answer questions or meet for a consultation. 617-947-6428
Seekonk Public Library
Cast Your Vote in Seekonk’s Scarecrow Fest!
Seekonk Public Library and Seekonk Parks & Recreation invite the community to take part in Scarecrow Fest by voting for their favorite scarecrow. From October 4 through October 17, visitors can stop by the library’s front lawn to view the colorful and creative scarecrows made by community members and cast a ballot for the one they like best.
Scarecrows will be judged in three categories, Traditional, Humorous, and Artistic, and voting is open to all. Winners will be announced following the close of voting, but the entire display will remain on the library lawn for everyone to enjoy through October 24.
“This is where the community really gets involved,” said event organizers. “The scarecrows are made by friends, families, and neighbors, and now everyone has the chance to help decide the favorites. It’s a fun, creative way to celebrate the season together.”
For more information about Scarecrow Fest, contact Seekonk Parks & Recreation at 508-336-8772 or Seekonk Library at 508336-8230. Additional details are available at seekonkpl.org.
Healthy Aging and Alzheimer’s Caregiver Resources Series
Join us for this series at Seekonk Public Library from the Alzheimer’s Association® to support healthy aging for all and resources for caregiver. These programs are free and open to the public, but registration is required to meet the minimum attendance needed to hold the events. Please register in advance and see more information in the online Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl. org/events.
Thursday, October 9 at 6 PM
Healthy Living for Your Brain & Body: Tips from the Latest Research. Learn about the connection between the heart and brain and the lifestyle choices to incorporate to delay or diminish dementia.
Wednesday,
November
12 at 6 PM
The Empowered Caregiver: Exploring Care & Support Services
Learn how to best prepare for future care decisions and changes, including respite care, residential care, and end-of-life care.
For more information or for help with registration, call Adult Services at 508-336-8230 x56130 or email library@seekonkpl.org.
More Than a Headline: A Study on Taylor Swift
Thursday, October 16 at 7 PM
Did you know that Harvard offered a course in 2024 titled “Taylor Swift and Her World”? Perhaps there’s something more than media fascination driving the popularity of Taylor Swift and her music. Join us online for Virtual Event: The Poetic and Musical Genius of Taylor Swift on Thursday, October 16 at 7 PM to hear insight from “Swiftie” and Harvard professor Stephanie Burt.
Drawing from her 2024 course, Burt will offer critical appreciation of Taylor Swift, her body of work, and the community that her art has fostered. This virtual program will be held online only in Zoom; register in the online Events Calendar to receive the login information to attend.
The login will be emailed to everyone registered several times, beginning the week before the event. For more information or for help with registration, call Adult Services at 508-336-8230 x56130 or email library@seekonkpl.org.
Applying for Jobs Online
Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at 6:00 PM
These days almost every job application is online, from fast food chains to public schools to state and federal work. Some require only basic information, and others involve more in-depth background details and document uploads. In this workshop, you will learn the basics of completing online job applications. You’ll get a feel for the most common navigation and form conventions, and you’ll gain experience with logistical aspects such as creating an account and uploading documents to a job application profile. Participants are encouraged to bring their own laptops, but the library will be able to provide a few Chromebooks for use during the program. In order to get the most out of this workshop, please make sure that you can log into your personal email account, either on your phone or with your username and password on a computer.
This program is free and open to the public; for planning and to be notified of program updates please register in our new Events Calendar at seekonkpl.org/events.
For more information, call Adult Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email library@seekonkpl.org.
Library Tech Class: Typing Shortcuts-QR Codes & More
Tuesday, October 21 at 2 PM
Do you want to get more out of your smartphone or tablet? Bring them to our monthly Library Tech Class. In each session we will introduce the most useful tools and tips for your mobile device to help getting started. Join us this month for Library Tech Class: Typing Shortcuts-QR Codes & More on Tuesday, October 21 from 2-3:30 PM in the library’s Large Meeting Room.
The small size of our phones and tablets make them convenient to carry, but difficult to type into. Come to this session to learn how to use QR codes, voice typing, and assistants to minimize keyboard frustration. You must bring your own device; make sure the device is fully charged. Space is limited; registration is required. Register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events.
For more information or for help with registration, call Adult Services at 508-336-8230 x56130 or email library@seekonkpl.org.
Community Movie Night
Wed, October 29 at 6 PM
Join us at the library on Wednesday, October 29 at 6 PM for a unique, genre-defying movie that fits the Family-friendly fun of Halloween season; it’s perfect for discriminating movie watchers of all ages and anyone ready for a one-of-a-kind, experience:
Described as a “live-action/stop-motion animated mockumentary with elements of heartwarming drama,” this whimsical film is based around the world of an endearing seashell named Marcel and offers delightful insights on family, community, and connection. Rated PG. Running time: 1 hour 30 minutes
You can also pick up a take home kit for you to make your own keepsake inspired by the film. Library staff agree this film is “Certified Don’t Miss” and we look forward to your reviews after watching! This program is free and open to the public. For planning purposes and to receive any program updates, please register in the online calendar at seekonkpl.org/events.
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.
Scary (But Not Too Scary): Horror Movie Night for Non-Horror Fans
Thurs, October 30 at 5:30 PM
Think you don’t like scary movies? Join us at Seekonk Public Library on Thursday, October 30 at 5:30 PM for a special Horror Movie Night designed for non-horror fans.
This year’s pick is M3GAN (2023), a PG-13 rated film with a runtime of 1 hour and 42 minutes.
In this film M3GAN, a lifelike AI doll designed to be a child’s best friend and a parent’s assistant, takes a chilling turn. Blending suspense, dark humor, and a touch of camp, M3GAN offers plenty of thrills without relentless gore. Whether you’re a seasoned horror fan or just curious to dip your toes into the genre, this film is the perfect gateway experience—clever, creepy, and fun to watch with a crowd.
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 for help with registration, call Adult Services at 508-336-8230 x56130 or email library@seekonkpl.org.
Friends of the Seekonk Public Library Book Sale
Sat, November
1st
from 9-3.
Our next big book sale will be on Saturday, November 1st from 9-3. All adult and children’s books and puzzles will be half priced. DVDs and CDS will be a dollar. There will be a raffle basket with $1.00 for one ticket and $5.00 for 8 tickets.. Hilliards chocolate assorted chocolate bars will be $3.00 for one or two for $5.00.
If you have any books or puzzles to donate for our sale, please bring them to a volunteer in the lobby of the library. Thank you to all who donate books and puzzles
for our daily lobby and quarterly big sales. Those who attend our sales can usually find something of interest to purchase. The proceeds go to supporting library programs not funded in the town’s budget.
We still have volunteer opportunities to those interested in helping with our daily sales, working behind the scenes at our big book sales, or serving on our board. Applications can be obtained from a volunteer in the lobby or from our website seekonkfol.org
the legal needs of the community since 1979
Stephen E. Navega,
Protect Yourself from ID Theft and Fraud
Wednesday, November 5 at 6 PM
As the holiday shopping season approaches, unfortunately so do the scams that target you both online and in person. To help protect yourself, join us at Seekonk Public Library on Wednesday, November 5 at 6 PM for Identity Theft & Fraud Protection, a free program presented by the Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation.
In this session, you will learn how to recognize and avoid financial scams that arrive by email, text, or other means. You will also discover strategies for preventing identity theft and get practical guidance on what to do if your identity is ever compromised. Don’t miss
this chance to safeguard your personal and financial information before the busy shopping season begins. This program is free and open to the public. For planning purposes and to receive important program updates, please register in the online Events Calendar at seekonkpl.org/events.
For more information or help registering, call Adult Services at 508-336-8230 extension 56130 or email library@seekonkpl.org.
Teen Services Teen Advisory Board
Thursday, October 2 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.
Fall Homework Cafe for Tweens & Teens
Thursday, October 16 at 3:00 PM
I hear libraries are a good place to study. If you’re looking for a quiet, relaxed atmosphere in which to get some work done, join us in the library meeting room for a Fall Homework Café for grades 6 – 12. You can work on school assignments alone or in groups with some quiet background music and a variety of snacks and drinks to choose from.
This 90-minute 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.
Five Nights at Freddy’s STEM Pizza Party
Thursday, October 23 at 3:00 PM
Celebrate Five Nights at Freddy’s with animatronics, creepy stuffed toys, and pizza! Peter Ferlazzo, local IT consultant and educator, will teach you how to use robotics programming to make a stuffed animal move on its own. Then Carla will lead you through a “FrankenAnimals” project where you’ll deconstruct a stuffed animal, remove the stuffing, and then restuff and sew it back together inside out to reveal its freaky innards. Pizza and drinks will be served.
This 90-minute event is free and open to tweens and teens in grades 6 through 12. Space is limited and registration is required.
For more information, call Adult Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email teens@seekonkpl.org.
Youth Services
Kid Librarian of the Month - October 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 creating of a book display with a theme of your choice. You will also make a sign to accompany the display. If needed, the Kid Librarian can ask the Librarian for assistance setting up the display.
The Kid Librarian of the Month will be selected in the last week of the month, and their display will be displayed for the rest of the following month. If chosen, you will be contacted by email or phone. All applications will remain on file.
Preschool Storytime
Monday, October 6, 10:00 AM
Ages 3-5 At preschool storytime, children ages 3-5 are encouraged to engage with stories, sing songs, and participate in activities to spark curiosity and promote a love of books! Younger siblings are welcome too.
Special
Preschool Trick-or-Treat Storytime
Monday, October 27, 10:00 AM
Ages 3-5 Join us for a (not too!) Spooky Halloween celebration with a special themed preschool storytime filled with spooky tales, eerie music, and fun movement activities. After storytime, children will get to “Trick or Treat” through the library, including a behind-thescenes adventure to collect special treats! Costumes are encouraged. Registration is required. Please register one spot per child.
Toddler Storytime
Wednesday, October 1, 8, 10:00 AM
Ages 18-36 Months Let’s read, play, and learn together!
Toddler storytime is designed for children 18–36 months old. The storytime will include reading a few books, followed by music, finger plays, movement, and yes, even bubbles!
Special Trick-or-Treat Toddler Storytime
Wednesday, October 29, 10:00 AM
Ages 18-36 Months Join us for a spook-tacular Halloween celebration with a special themed storytime filled with spooky tales, eerie music, and fun movement activities. After storytime, children will get to “Trick or Treat” through the library, including a behind-thescenes adventure to collect special treats! Costumes are encouraged. Registration Required. Register one spot per child.
Baby Storytime
Thursday, October 2, 9, 30, 10:00 AM
Ages 0-18 Months Baby Storytime is a program designed for infants 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. Babies can enjoy belly time, great for building neck and shoulder strength, as well as crawl through a tunnel, explore toys, and look through board books.
Firefighter Storytime
Tuesday, October 7, 10:00 AM
Ages 3-5 It is Fire Safety Week! Lieutenant Laprade from the Seekonk Fire Department will be here to talk to us about Fire Safety, and he is bringing his fire truck! There will be a story, some singing, and then Lt. Laprade will teach us about fire safety. Afterwards, step outside to see and touch a fire truck. This program is for ages 3-5 and a caregiver. Please register a spot for all attending.
Paws to Read
Tuesday, October 7, 3:30-4:30 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. Space is limited, so be sure to register early.
Beyblade Club
Wednesday, October 15, 4:00 PM
Grades 1-5 Battle it out by launching your Beyblades into a stadium to see who comes out on top. Join us for free play and friendly competition! Bring your Beyblades and stadiums or use the library’s limited supply. Come battle Beyblades and meet some new friends! This is a drop-in program; no registration required.
Scary Stories by the Fire
Thursday, October 16, 6:00 PM
All ages. Scary Stories by the Fire is family-friendly tales of ghosts, mysteries, and the supernatural performed by professional working actors from the Watermelon Alligator Theatre Company. Scary Stories by the Fire is tailored to fit any age range, from kids to adults. The “fire” has a special lighting effect and is flamefree. Please register a spot for all attending.
Artful Pages Project: Shape Art
Monday, October 20, 6:00 PM
Grade 1-3 Illustrator Ed Pemberley makes shapes come to life in the form of MONSTERS! At this Artful Pages Project: Shape Art, you will listen to some monster stories and learn to use shapes to create your monsters. Please register one spot per child.
Tools for Tiny Hands
Wednesday, October 22, 10:00 - 11:30 AM
Ages 2-5 with caregiver. Tools for Tiny Hands is a workshop designed to support early childhood development! Kids will explore peel, rip, and stick stations set up around the room, perfect for practicing fine motor skills. These activities lay the foundation for pre-literacy abilities and school readiness. Please register one spot per child.
Crafternoon
Thursday, Oct 23 & Friday, Oct 24, 1:30-3:30 PM
All ages. It is an early release day, and the children’s room has a craft for you to create! Swing by the children’s room and get crafting! We’ve got everything you need to make your very own Spooky Masterpiece. All supplies are provided, drop in and let your imagination do the rest!
Sensory Play
Saturday, October 25, 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. This is a drop-in program; no registration required.
Yoga for Beginners
Monday, October 27, 6:00 PM
Ages 8+ Yoga instructor Sonig will introduce beginners to foundational poses, proper alignment, and breath work, while providing a safe and accessible introduction to the world of yoga. Yoga provides numerous physical and mental benefits. Sonig is a 200-hour certified yoga teacher who lives in Seekonk with her family and teaches at Providence Power Yoga. Please register one spot per child. Please bring a Yoga mat or beach towel.
Directed by Richard Jenkins and Sharon Jenkins,
PROVIDENCE: Trinity Repertory Company presents its 49th annual production of A Christmas Carol, adapted from the novella by Charles Dickens, with original music by Richard Cumming. This year, the show will be co-directed by former Trinity Rep Artistic Director and Emmy Award–winner Richard Jenkins and acclaimed choreographer Sharon Jenkins. Resident company member Stephen Thorne returns to the role of Ebenezer Scrooge, which he last played in 2018. For the first time, the beloved holiday classic will be staged in Trinity Rep's 250-seat Dowling Theater. It will play from November 6 – December 31, 2025.
First added to Trinity Rep’s lineup in 1977 by Founding Artistic Director Adrian Hall, A Christmas Carol has become a cherished holiday tradition for generations of Southern New England families. Reimagined annually with a new cast and creative team, over two million people have experienced this unique production in its nearly 50-year history.
As is tradition, child actors from across Southern New England will make up the children’s cast. This year’s young performers are Seekonk resident Hadley Boyle; Cranston residents Felese Kparyea, Tess Loezos, Salvador Rivera Scotti, and Gabriel
Taveras; North Providence resident Joshua Pitts-Wiley; Providence resident Elena Rose Taveras; and West Warwick resident Aria Razza.
Another way young people can get involved is through Trinity Rep’s first-ever holiday art competition. Ten young Rhode Island artists ages 13-25 will have their original, holiday-themed artwork on display in the Trinity Rep’s lobby during the run of A Christmas Carol. For contest guidelines, visit TrinityRep.com/Christmas.
Please note: Due to construction, the in-person Ticket Office is temporarily closed. Tickets are always available online, or by phone WED-SUN, 12-6 pm. Will-call and day-of tickets are available in the lobby starting two hours before curtain.
Special Events & Ticket Offers
• Pay What You Wish – November 6th at 7:30 pm
• Neighborhood Nights – 20% off tickets for the 6:00 pm evening performance on certain Sundays
• Sensory-Friendly Plus! Nov 22 at 12:00 pm Ticket Office – (401) 351-4242; 201 Washington Street, Providence, RI 02903 Website – TrinityRep.com/Christmas
News and Notes from... Blanding Library
By Leslie Patterson
Book Sale Oct. 10-12
The Friends of the Blanding Library will hold their annual used book sale the weekend of Oct. 10 to 12. The sale will begin from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday Oct. 10 with a preview sale only for members of the Friends of the Blanding Library. You may join the Friends at that time if you’re not already a member.
The general sale will continue on Sat. Oct. 11 from 10 to 3, and on Sun, Oct. 12 from noon to 3, with books going for $10 a bag at that time. Also, come and take a chance on our many great raffle prizes. Many thanks to local individuals and businesses for donating raffle prizes.
Pumpkin Decorating Contest
Register and choose a pumpkin from our patch October 6-17. Then decorate it as your favorite story character and return it to the library for display by Oct. 18 for judging. Winners will be announced on Sat. Oct. 25. Pumpkins may be picked up on or after Oct. 25. All ages welcome.
More Autumn Fun
• GHOST HUNTING: Come ghost hunting at the Library from Oct. 18 to 31. This is a ghostly scavenger hunt throughout the library. All ages welcome.
• HOLIDAY BOOK DÉCOR: On Wed. Oct. 15 from 6:30 to 8 pm, create a pumpkin, turkey and a holiday tree – all from books! You will receive instruction and start each project, then take them to finish at home. Ages 16 and up. All materials provided. Space is limited. Call to register.
• BOOK VASES: On Wed., October 22, 6;30-8. Book fun, part two! Create a book vase filled with fall décor. All materials will be provided. For ages 16 and up. Space is limited so call ahead to register.
• ALPACAS VISIT: We’re looking forward to a visit from those cute alpacas from Kave Rock Farm in Rehoboth on Tues. Nov. 4 from 11 to 12, outside Goff Hall.
Story Times & More for Kids
• Story Times for children ages 3 and up with Miss Cathy continues at 10:30 on Thursdays. Tot Times with Miss Joyce will be on Tuesdays at 10:30, for children under age 4 and their caregivers. Siblings are welcome at both groups. Note that sometimes there are changes to Story Hour and Tot Time programs. Check the calendar on the library’s website for the latest updates.
• YOGA FOR LITTLES: The next session of Yoga and Stories for Littles (children under 5) with Rebecca will meet on Monday Oct. 20 at 10:30.
• The next LEGOS at the library will be Sat. Nov. 1 from 11 to 2.
• The Story Walk in the front garden is now set up to display a new children’s book to celebrate being good neighbors. Stop by and enjoy the story.
History Group & More Programs
The weekly history group led by Hank Coleman is now underway again this fall, at the library at 11 am each Wednesday. This time the topic will be Ancient Rome, starting with the Punic Wars. Open to all with an interest in history. Note that the group will not meet on Wed. Oct.
8 because the Friends of the Library will be setting up the hall for their book sale.
The Blanding offers two monthly book groups, one on Monday evenings and one on Wednesday afternoons. Call the library for more information.
Knit Night at the library meets one evening a month from 6:30 to 8. Call the library for the next meeting date. For adults and teens to get together and work on their knitting projects.
You can find more information and news about programs and events at the Blanding Public Library at https://rehobothantiquarian.org/blanding-library/ You can also sign-up for a monthly library email letter on this site.
The Blanding Public Library at 124 Bay State Rd., Rehoboth is open Monday through Thursday from 10 to 8, and on Friday and Saturdays from 10 to 4. Closed Sundays and holidays, including Mon. Oct. 13. Library phone: 508-252-4236.
SPORTS UPDATE
RIFAC Fencer Medals at
Regional Youth Tournament in NY
September 26-28, 2025
Elias Kaba from Seekonk scored a gold medal win in epee competition at the Premier Challenge Regional Open Circuit fencing tournament held at Rockland Community College, Suffern, NY, September 26-28, 2025. He competed against 49 other eager athletes in Y-14 Men’s Epee, an event restricted to fencers aged 14 and under. Elias overwhelmed the competition in pools with victories in every bout; this excellent result promoted him to first place after the preliminary round and earned him a bye going into direct elimination. His first DE bout was uneventful with an easy 15 to 8 point win. The next four DE bouts were closer, but Elias ultimately prevailed to reach the top of the podium and win gold, a personal achievement and a bonus for his home club, the Rhode Island Fencing Academy & Club (RIFAC) located in E. Providence.
Elias Kaba
Celebrating Senior Cheerleaders!
SCHOOL NEWS
Dighton-Rehoboth Gets Car for Automotive Program
By Joe Siegel
The Automotive Technology program at Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School is the recipient of a donated vehicle from the Ford Motor Company.
The celebration brought together state and local leaders, including Regina Robinson, Special Assistant to the Commissioner for Stakeholder Engagement and Outreach for the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE); Senator Kelly Dooner; Representative Steve Howitt; Representative Justin Thurber; and Catarina Pereira, representing Congressman Jake Auchincloss. They joined School Committee members, selectmen, community leaders, and families to witness the unveiling alongside students.
“This donation from Ford is more than a gift—it’s a symbol of trust and collaboration,” said Superintendent Bill Runey. “When I came to Dighton-Rehoboth, I made a commitment to rebuild trust and forge partnerships that would expand opportunities for kids. Today, we see that commitment realized. This moment exemplifies our DRiving Toward 2030 vision—Empowering educators, Igniting student learning, and Shaping pathways to success.”
“This partnership is a powerful example of what can happen when education, industry, and community come together,” said Principal Dustin Demers. “It elevates not just our CTE program, but our comprehensive high school as a whole.”
“Our students now have immediate access to advanced automotive technology,” CTE Director Mike Strojny added. “This is the kind of real-world experience that inspires confidence, builds skills, and prepares graduates to thrive in today’s workforce.”
In addition to Ford’s corporate representatives, the district recognized the support of Michael Tasca Sr., owner of Tasca Ford, “whose leadership and advocacy for local partnerships continue to drive opportunity for students,” Runey noted.
The Wheeler School Open House Oct 25th
The Wheeler School is a nursery - grade 12 independent day school with two campuses: one in Providence’s College Hill neighborhood and the second on a 120-acre farm in nearby Seekonk, MA. Founded in 1889 by artist and educator Mary C. Wheeler, the school serves about 800 students from across Greater Providence and Greater Boston.
Guided by the school’s mission— “to learn our powers and be answerable for their use”—teachers and staff help students discover and develop their strengths and passions, whether in the classroom, on the field, or in the studio. With a focus on academic challenge, creative expression, and meaningful relationships, Wheeler prepares students to thrive in college and to make a difference in the world.
Wheeler is also home to the Hamilton School, which provides expert, individualized instruction for students with language-based learning differences.
Local Student Brings History to Life with Original Play on Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire
Seventeenyear-old Juliana Centracchio of Seekonk, MA is making her debut as both playwright and director with a new original production that explores a tragic and transformative event in the
United States labor history: the 1911 Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire. Debuting on October 16 at 7 PM at Seekonk High School, the South of 14th Street play dramatizes the famous fire and the ensuing movement for workers’ rights.
In New York City on March 25, 1911, the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire claimed the lives of 146 garment workers, many of whom were young immigrant women. Locked doors, blocked exits, flammable fabrics, and inadequate escapes transformed a spark into a deadly inferno in just 18 minutes. The tragedy catalyzed sweeping reforms in workplace safety, including the now-familiar fire codes, building regulations, and labor protections.
Juliana’s interest in the topic stems from a passion for women’s rights and historical storytelling. “It’s really a story about the underdog,” she explains. “I wanted to write a play that centered on women and their fight for justice. The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire was the perfect example.”
Grounded in reality, South of 14th Street is a work of historical fiction, blending real-life figures such as factory owners Max Blanck and Isaac Harris, and labor activists Clara Lemlich and Mary Dreier. The story tells of the garment workers’ struggles to actualize safer working conditions ahead of the blaze and carries the viewer through the events leading up to, and after, the famous fire.
South of 14th Street will entertain, but also educate audiences, about the importance of labor rights and the legacy of immigrant women in shaping history.
“These women were fighting back against oppression and demanding better conditions. Their voices mattered, even if they weren’t heard in time to save their lives, these women transformed the lives of so many, and I want their story to be known,” said Juliana.
While Juliana may be a new playwright, she is a lifelong reader and writer. Her dive into playwriting from novels began in March 2025, after the school musical wrapped. She spent a month researching and drafting, then quickly revised the script after realizing it needed more heart and less exposition. Auditions were held in early June 2025, and the cast now includes around 16 students from Seekonk schools.
“I’ve learned so much,” she says. “As a novelist, I’m used to controlling every detail. But directing a play means letting go—actors bring their own interpretations, and sometimes it’s better than what I imagined because it brings this important story to life in new ways.”
South of 14th Street is entirely studentrun and supported by school educators and through donations through the newly formed Seekonk High School Theater Booster Club.
South of 14th Street tickets are available for purchase at the door with cash, check or card for each show:
Thursday, October 16 at 7 PM
Saturday, October 18 at 7 PM
Sunday, October 19 at 2 PM
After the premiere, Juliana plans to continue writing and directing. She’s enrolled in a performance-based class next semester and hopes to develop another original play. “I want to do this forever,” she says. “Writing is my passion, and I’m just getting started.”
Cast members from SHS:
• Class of 2026: Max Harper
• Class of 2027: Izzie Almeida, Lily Boudreau-Faria, Allexia Decarvalho, Bailey Gendreau, Kendalyn Lapointe, Vincent Lastrina, Zoe Osmanski
• Class of 2028: Avery Devane, Maeve Keenaghan, Dylan Martel, Beatrix Sluzewski
• Class of 2029: Abigail Braga, Sadie Liddell, Olivia Sirois, Charlie Sluter
• Class of 2035: Mila Centracchio-playwright and director’s youngest sibling, attends Mildred H. Aitken School in Seekonk
Juliana Centracchio
Palmer River Elementary Welcomes Students Back for the New School Year
Rehoboth, MA – Palmer River Elementary School welcomed back its 650 students for the 2025-2026 school year with a warm greeting of high fives from Superintendent Bill Runey, members of the Rehoboth Police Department, the school mascot Edo, and faculty and staff.
Students began the year focusing on September’s Monthly Mindset: the Palmer River Expectations—be responsible, be safe, and be respectful. These expectations guide student behavior throughout classrooms, the cafeteria, recess, hallways,
and bathrooms. At the end of the month, students who consistently demonstrate these values will be recognized and invited to select a book from the school’s book vending machine as a reward.
The campus welcomed students with several exciting upgrades. New flowers and trees, generously donated by Araujo’s in Dighton, MA, have been planted throughout the school grounds. Palmer River extends special thanks to Darlene at Araujo’s for her donation and expert guidance in selecting the plants. The school also acknowledges
the contributions of former fourth-grade students (now fifth graders), their families, and the PTSA, whose support through the Legacy Project helped fund the front garden.
In addition, accessible rubber matting has been installed in the playground areas to promote inclusivity, and ongoing bathroom renovations continue to provide a comfortable environment for students.
Palmer River Elementary looks forward to a school year filled with learning, growth, curiosity, and laughter.
Hi-fives welcoming students back
Hi-fives welcoming students back
New flowers & plants
Updates to the playground
Events & Activities
Plantation Goods: A Material History of American Slavery
Join the Carpenter Museum for Plantation Goods: A Material History of American Slavery on October 9th. In this talk, Rockman tells the biggest stories of early American history through the most mundane artifacts: shoes manufactured in Massachusetts for the use of enslaved people in Mississippi, for example, or woolen dresses stitched in Rhode Island for enslaved women in South Carolina to wear. In following these goods from the communities in which they were made to the communities in which they were used, Rockman rethinks the geography of slavery and freedom in the decades between American independence and the Civil War. He poses questions that continue to preoccupy us in the age of the iPhone and fair-trade coffee: what are the moral, ecological, and political relationships linking consumers and producers across long distances? What does it mean to be “complicit”? The event will be held in the Tilton Room at the Carpenter Museum, 4 Locust Avenue. The lecture will start at 6:30. Registration encouraged. Register by emailing Chelsea Johnston at carpentermuseum@gmail.com or calling us at 508-252-3031. You can also register right on the eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/plantation-goods-a-material-historyof-american-slavery-tickets-1688457474759?aff=oddtdtcreator
This event is free and open to the public. This event is put on with support from the Rehoboth Cultural Council.
About Seth Rockman:
Seth Rockman is the George L. Littlefield Professor of American History at Brown University. He is the author of Scraping By: Wage Labor, Slavery, and Survival in Early Baltimore and coeditor of Slavery’s Capitalism: A New History of American Economic Development. Rockman serves on the faculty advisory board of Brown University’s Ruth J. Simmons Center for the Study of Slavery and Justice. Plantation Goods was a finalist for the 2025 Pulitzer Prize in History, as well as for the Mark Lynton History Prize. The book was also named the winner of the Philip Taft Labor History Award.
About the Carpenter Museum:
The Carpenter Museum, named in honor of major benefactors Elsie Carpenter and her son E. Winsor Carpenter, is Rehoboth’s local history museum. Our mission is to collect, document, preserve, and share material culture related to the town’s history. We connect the Rehoboth community with these artifacts and with local history in general through our exhibits and programming. The Museum provides the wider community with research support, especially in the area of genealogy, and promotes learning about American history through direct experience with objects from the past.
The Carpenter Museum’s 46th Annual Crafters’ Marketplace
The Crafters’ Marketplace will take place Saturday, October 18th, from 9AM - 3PM. This jury selected show has been a staple of the South-Eastern Massachusetts Fall craft show season for over 46 years. The show benefits the Carpenter Museum and our mission to provide programming, education, and research opportunities to the Rehoboth community and beyond.
The Crafters’ Marketplace is held in the historic Rehoboth Village in three separate but walkable buildings; the Carpenter Museum, the Rehoboth Congregational Church Hall, and nearby Goff Hall at Blanding Public Library. The Marketplace is free for shoppers to enter, free to park.
Join us for a day of unique finds. You’ll discover high-quality handmade items perfect for gifts or treating yourself. While you shop, don’t miss the exciting vendor raffle happening at Goff Hall, with prizes donated by our talented crafters. Be sure to grab your ticket to win the special 250th Anniversary of the Revolutionary Warthemed quilt—an incredible keepsake commemorating this historic milestone (tickets are just $10). When hunger strikes, a delicious food truck serving classic American fare will be on-site to satisfy all your lunchtime cravings. We can’t wait to see everyone there!
About the Carpenter Museum:
The Carpenter Museum is Rehoboth’s local history museum. Our mission is to collect, document, preserve, and share material culture related to the town’s history. We connect the Rehoboth community with these artifacts and with local history in general through our exhibits and programming. The Museum provides the wider community with research support, especially in the area of genealogy, and promotes learning about American history through direct experience with objects from the past.
Personal Touch Country
Gift Shoppe
Pumpkins, Scarecrows and Ghosts * Framed Pictures Candles & Melters * Candle Bases & Sleeves * Wreaths ...and so much more!
299 Fall River Ave. Seekonk, MA • (508) 336-0488
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10-5
Sundays 12-5 starting October 19th
Seth Rockman
Cowgirls for Christmas Toy Drive
It’s that time of year again! The Oliveira family and their little cowgirls are kicking off their 2nd Annual Cowgirls for Christmas Toy Drive to benefit the children at Hasbro Children’s Hospital.
Drive Dates: September 1st – December 15th
How to Give: We are collecting new, unwrapped toys for all ages. You can also shop directly from our Amazon Wish List for easy delivery. Last year, with the community’s generosity, we donated 351 toys—this year, we hope to surpass that! Let’s come together to bring smiles, joy, and holiday cheer to children spending Christmas in the hospital.
Follow our Facebook page “Cowgirls for Christmas” for updates, drop-off information, and the Amazon Wish List link.
Thank you for helping us make Christmas brighter!
Rehoboth Station 2 Firefighters Association Annual Prime Rib Dinner
Saturday October 25, 2025
Serving Time: 4:00 - 6:00 Pm
American Legion Post 302, 84 Bay State Road Rehoboth, MA Dine-In or Take-Out - Advance Ticket Sales Only
$40.00 Per Ticket
See Any Station 2 Firefighter for Tickets Or Call (508) 226-2914
Seekonk High School Class of 1995 30 Year Reunion !!
Saturday, November 1st 2025
Break out your flannel shirts, Doc Martins, and mix tapes- because it’s time to rewind to the raddest decade and reconnect like it’s 1995!
Our Class of 1995 Reunion is happening on Saturday, November 1st 2025 from 6pm-11pm at the Attleboro Elks
Located at :887 So. Main Street Attleboro, MA
Find out all of the details at: Shsclassof1995.squarespace.com
Or send an email to: seekonkclassof1995@gmail.com
Narragansett Bay Symphony Community Orchestra
Join the Narragansett Bay Symphony Community Orchestra (NaBSCO), Rhode Island’s premier community orchestra, and Interim Music Director John Eells for the Season Opener Concert on Sunday, November 2, 2025 at 3:00 pm in the auditorium of East Providence High School, 2000 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence, RI.
The concert opens with the performance of Maurice Ravel’s nostalgic and graceful Pavanne pour une infant défunte (Pavanne for a Dead Princess), followed by Hector Berlioz’s Les Nuits d’été (Summer Nights), Op. 7, a delicate song cycle of six poems. NaBSCO will be joined by local artist Krista Wilhelmsen, soprano, for this poignant work. The first half of the concert concludes with Samuel Coleridge-Taylor’s Rhapsodic Dance, The Bamboula, Op. 75, based on a well-known West Indian dance tune.
The second half of the concert begins with Dmitri Shostakovich’s Tahiti Trot, Op. 16, an arrangement of the song “Tea for Two” from the musical No, No, Nanette. The concert closes with a performance of George Gershwin’s An American in Paris. This symphonic poem uses jazz idioms and invokes the sight, sounds, and energy of Paris, France, in 1928.
Above: John Eells, interim Music Director; Right: Krista Wilhelmsen, soprano
Visit www.nabsco.org/events for more information about the 2025-2026 concert season.
Admission is ‘Pay what you think is fair,’ and tickets can be purchased at the door or online in advance. Please also help support the RI Community Food Bank by bringing a non-perishable food item. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit NaBSCO’s website, www.nabsco.org, email team@nabsco.org, or call 401274-4578.
Arts in the Village Presents Elm Chamber
Ensemble
Sunday November 9, 2025 2:30 pm Goff Hall, 124 Bay State Rd. Rehoboth, MA
Adults $30 Children/Students $10
No reserved seating
Free and handicapped parking
For more information go to www.rehobothantiquarian.org/arts-in-thevillage/
Based in Boston the Ensmble consists of: Joel Pitchon, violin is an active soloist, concertmaster and chamber music player. He has received acclaim for his performances with nationally and internationally renowned ensembles; Marie-Volcy Pelletier, cellist, is a native of Paris who received the Premier Prix in Cello and Chamber Music from the Conservatoire National de Région de Boulogne-Billancourt, France; Anthony Berner,violin and viola is a founding member of the Deerfield Trio. As a violinist and violist member of the 92nd St. Y Chamber Players, he has performed as soloist and in chamber music concerts throughout the NYC area; Yu-mei Wei, piano, is a Native Taiwanese, and has appeared as a soloist with various orchestras in the United States, Europe and Taiwan.
Visions of Arabia, A Cultural Journey
Nov 15th 2025 at 5 pm
From Edinburgh to London: Book Lovers’ 2026 Literary Journey Through the UK
August 8–17, 2026
A new cultural travel opportunity organized by a local librarian will take book lovers from Scotland to England in the summer of 2026. Edinburgh to London: A Book Lovers’ Journey, scheduled for August 8–17, 2026 will span ten days and highlight the literary and historical landscapes of the United Kingdom. Participants will begin in Edinburgh, Scotland, a city recognized worldwide for its literary heritage and vibrant book scene, before heading south to explore York, Jane Austen’s Bath, Stratford-upon-Avon—birthplace of William Shakespeare—and the prehistoric monument of Stonehenge. The program, coordinated in conjunction with EF Go Ahead Tours, concludes in London, where travelers will experience the capital’s rich blend of history, architecture, and literary traditions. Travelers who wish to join a welcoming community of like-minded book lovers—sharing their passion for reading, culture, and discovery while exploring some of Britain’s most iconic destinations—are invited! For details, contact Suzanne Larson at SLarsonLMS@ gmail.com
M arch 28, 7:30 pm
Memorial Hall, Rehoboth, MA
Sunday, Nov. 9th at 2:30 PM Goff Memorial Hall
Providence Mandolin Orchestra
Sunday, October 6th at 2;30pm Hall, 124 Bay State Rd, Rehoboth the door, $25 adults, $10 students/children
Join us for a night of live music and dance, to celebrate the culture of the Middle East. New England is steeped in the history, as many musicians for Turkey, Armenia, Lebanon, and Egypt moved into New England. They brought their unique music, and their unique instruments, with them. They have shared it for several decades in our area. We are privileged to have the Boston Taxim Band as our special guest at this event. These musicians are icons in this area for decades. New England Bellydancers consider themselves lucky, to have these unique opportunities to dance to their live music. New England has some of the best musicians in the country. There are many areas where this opportunity is not available. With the help of a grant from the Massachusetts Cultural Council in Rehoboth Massachusetts, we are bringing you an evening of magic, through music and dance. Be our guest, and let yourself be swept away in the beauty of the music by this incredible band. Let the band and the dancers take you on this journey to Arabia, Turkey, Lebanon and Armenia. Join us on Nov 15th 2025 at 5 pm, at the Blanding Library Goff Hall for the show. There is no admission fee, but we do welcome tips for the dancers, who are all donating their time to make this event possible. For more information email m_e_dancer@ yahoo.com, Kaliliadance.com or Facebook: Kalilia Dance
Tickets at the door, $18, $16, $8 508-463-5384 – www.RehobothAntiquarian.org
World Singing Day Event Coming to the Warwick Mall
Saturday, October 18th at 1 pm - Save the Date!
Harmony Heritage invites all to raise their voices in celebration of community and our common humanity!
The Warwick Mall will be the site for a World Singing Day Event to be held on October 18th at 1 pm. People who love to sing will gather together in an event designed for everyone — all ages, backgrounds and singing abilities. The event will be hosted by Harmony Heritage, the Rhode Island based chapter of Harmony, Incorporated, an international organization of female a cappella singers specializing in the barbershop harmony style.
“World Singing Day was started in 2012 by songwriter and musician Scott Johnson, who believes that nothing brings people closer together faster than singing,” says event organizer Shelley Pray. “What began as a local event in Boulder, Colorado has since grown into a global celebration, spanning 19 countries and 5 continents. Each year a common song of the year is chosen, and groups and individuals are encouraged to go to the WSD website to learn that song and sing it on World Singing Day. This year’s song will be “All of Us,” composed by Scott Johnson. In addition, lyric sheets to some popular music will be provided, and all are invited to sing their hearts out.”
For more information or learning media, contact Shelley Pray at spray89423@aol.com or call 401-226-5192, or visit the Harmony Heritage chorus website at https://www.harmonyheritage.org/. Videos of past World Singing Day events can be found at https:// worldsingingday.org/.
Women’s A Cappella Chorus Invites Female Singers to Participate in Holiday Show
Pawtucket, Rhode Island, September 25, 2025 — Harmony Heritage Chorus, the Pawtucket, RI chapter of Harmony, Incorporated, an international organization of female a cappella singers specializing in the barbershop harmony style, is inviting female singers of all ages and musical backgrounds to sing with them as guest singers in a special holiday concert to be held at the LaSalette Shrine auditorium in Attleboro, MA.
Beginning October 14th and continuing weekly through early December, guest singers will need to attend the first hour of regular weekly Tuesday night rehearsals, from 7pm-8pm at Epworth United Methodist Church on 915 Newport Avenue, Pawtucket, RI. Guests will learn 5 holiday songs, including some old favorites and some lesser known pieces. Rehearsals will culminate with participation in the December 6th a cappella holiday show, featuring over 100 singers from three award winning choruses, including a men’s chorus from Providence and a women’s chorus from Sweet Adelines International.
Participation is free, and no further commitment is required. For more information about the Christmas Chorus, call Shelley Pray at 401-226-5192 or at spray59423@aol.com.
“Almost every one of our members came for the music, but each of us stayed for the camaraderie and the friendship,” says Camilla Streeter, chapter president. “We welcome women who like to sing, even if it’s just in the privacy of their cars.”
The Harmony Heritage chorus is an award-winning chapter of Harmony, Inc. that performs under the direction of Bob O’Connell, an accomplished director, performer, arranger and musician. “It’s important to note that barbershop harmony is often considered the ‘everyman’s a cappella,” says O’Connell. “Members don’t need to have a lot of musical experience, formal training, or even have the
ability to read music. As long as she loves to sing, we have the tools to help her find success in barbershop harmony.”
Harmony Heritage chorus primarily sings in the barbershop harmony style, which traces its musical roots back to the turn of the 20th century. Today, barbershop harmony singers not only celebrate the classics, but also put their own spin on contemporary songs as well.
Rehearsal parking is in the church lot and on the section of Crescent Road that is next to the church. Attendees enter the building through the back entrance, and rehearsals take place in the church basement.
For more information about Harmony Heritage chorus, visit www. harmonyheritage.org . For questions on membership, contact Shelley Pray at 401-226-5192 or at spray59423@aol.com. To inquire about booking a performance by the chorus, contact Barbara-Ann MacIntosh at 401-560-0073 or joyhi@cox.net.
About Harmony Heritage
Founded in 2001, the Southern New England chapter of Harmony, Inc., also known as the Harmony Heritage chorus, brings four-part a cappella harmony to the local community through regular performances and educational events. The chorus consists of women representing a wide range of musical backgrounds, from novice to trained professionals, and performs under the direction of Bob O’Connell. Harmony Heritage rehearses at 7:00 PM on Tuesdays at Epworth United Methodist Church in Pawtucket, RI. For more information, visit www.harmonyheritage.org .
About Harmony, Incorporated: Harmony, Inc. is an international, non-profit organization whose purpose is to empower all women through education, friendship and a cappella singing in the barbershop style. Founded in Providence, RI in 1959, the organization has expanded from its Eastern roots to include more than 70 chapters in the United States and Canada. For more information, visit www.HarmonyInc.org .
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ChurCh News & eveNts
Rehoboth Congregational Church
139 Bay State Rd. Rehoboth
We have a lot of great events, fundraisers and raffles coming up! For more information on all our events: You can visit our website at: www.rehobothcongregational.org/events Or contact our Administrative Director Samantha: office@rehobothcongregational.org or 508-252-4545 (Tuesday-Thursday 9AM-1PM)
WORSHIP WITH US! | ALL ARE WELCOME!
We worship every Sunday at 10AM. Join us for a wonderful blend of traditional worship with a modern twist. We sing, we laugh, and we enjoy the fellowship of one another’s company while strengthening our faith and serving others. Worship with us online at www.rehobothcongregational.org/worshiponline
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 with Interim Minister Rev Dr Ruth Shaver. 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.
Annual National Faith & Blue Event
We are happy to announce the 5th Annual Family Event. Faith & Blue is a national organization which joins police and local churches to build bridges to be more inclusive communities. National Faith & Blue Weekend is October 10-13, 2025 and we have planned a Cook Out and Movie Night for Friday October 10, 2025
The location chosen this year will be the Faith Christian Center at 95 Sagamore Rd in Seekonk. We will have outdoor activities - a bouncy house, games & UTV rides. Popcorn will be offered during the movie. Youngs Catering and Chick-fil-A will provide snacks. Hamburgers & Hot Dogs & chips will be served. The FREE event begins at 5:30 PM and we will move indoors at 6:30 PM to view the family movie
Please visit the Seekonk Police facebook page facebook.com/seekonkpd and respond to the event invite to let them know you are interested. This event is open to all, invite your family and friends, just show up to show your support for our police and our churches.
While there is no charge for this event, we ask you bring a non-perishable food item to be donated to Seekonk Doorways.
YARD SALE
It’s time to clear out your basements, closets, garages and attics. We are having a Yard Sale on Saturday Oct 18, 2025 from 9 AM to NOON. You can reserve an 8’ table & 2 chairs for $35.00 to sell your own items …or you can donate your items to the Church for sale at the “Church” section of the Yard Sale. All items must be no larger than a “bread box”, no furniture, clothes or computers for the church table. The earliest you can drop off your items for the church table is Sunday Oct 12. For any questions
Christmas Bazaar
Rehoboth Congregational Church | 139 Bay State Rd. Rehoboth MA
Find that perfect gift!
November 7 4PM - 8PM | November 8 9AM-3PM th th Hungry?!
Unique Boutique
Handmade fashion, accessories and home items
Mrs. Claus’ Closet
“Name Your Price” gently used Christmas decorations
Baked Shoppe, Pie Girls & Cookie Walk
Homemade breads, jams, jellies, fudge, candy, baked beans, brown bread, pies and variety of cookies to mix and match. Gluten free options will be available
Feeling Lucky?
Silent Auction & Wreath Raffle
Businesses!
We are looking for donations to our Silent Auction. Contact the office Tuesday-Thursday 9AM-1PM 508-252-4545
Raffle Opens October 1 2025 & st Closes November 30 2025 th
Santa will be here! Bring your phone and snap a photo for your Christmas cards!
$10.00 per raffle ticket OR 5 raffle tickets for $40.00
First Place: $499.99 value
Nintendo Switch 2 with Pokemon Legends Z-A
Second Place: $59.99 value
Pokemon Legends Z-A Game for Nintendo Switch
Third Place: $35.00 value
Nintendo eShop Gift Card
For more info visit www.rehobothcongregational.org/events or contact our office 508-252-4545
or to reserve a table, please contact Chair Linda Mace at 508-2843242 or Maria at the Church Office 508-336-9355.
PIECEMAKERS QUILT SHOW
We are having a quilt show on Saturday Oct 25, 2025 from 9 - 3 in the hall and sanctuary. There will be over 100 Amazing Quilts on Display. Admission is $5 per person Quilter’s Boutique, bargain table…Quilter’s Cafe and more.
TRUNK or TREATS
Please join us on Sunday Oct 26 2 – 4 PM in the Fall River Avenue Parking Lot and the Hall. Come dressed in costumes and enjoy a fun filled afternoon with inside games and treats. If you are interested in decorating a vehicle, please contact Kristin Putney at 774-991-1555. Please bring your children, grandchildren, neighbors. Candy donations are always
HARVEST DINNER
Saturday, November 1, 2025
Our annual Harvest Dinner will be held on Sat Nov 1, 2025. It will be a Buffet serving from 5:00 to 6:30PM. Eat In or Take Out. MENU: Baked Ham, Mashed Potatoes, Butternut Squash, Harvard Beets, Onions, Cole Slaw, Rolls & Butter and Cake & Ice Cream for dessert…TICKET PRICES: Adults $18.00 and Children (ages 5-12) $8.00. RESERVATIONS are SUGGESTED, walk-ins welcome. Tickets will go on sale during coffee hours beginning Sunday Oct 5th or you could contact the Church Office at 508-336-9355 or chairperson Evelyn Watkins 401-680-2490
ALL SAINTS DAY
On the first Sunday in November, November 2, 2025 it is our tradition to carry out an ancient tradition that has been in existence for over 1000 years. It is the tradition of remembering with love and gratitude those who have gone on before us to eternal rest since last November. Also plan to come to a most inspiring and uplifting service with toe-tapping jazz that will lead us all to greater heights!
FALL CHURCH GROUNDS CLEAN-UP
We are having a Grounds Clean-up on Sat Nov 9th 9AM –Noon to prepare the property for winter. Volunteers are needed for cleanup of Church grounds, bring your gloves & rakes A Sign up sheet in Hall and if you have any question contact: Trish Sweeney 508-736-8434
OPEN MIC NIGHT
Harvest Family Fest
Please join us on Friday November 14 from 6:30 to 9 PM in the Church Hall. We hope you will come and share your talents: singing, playing musical instruments, comedy, dance - all talent is needed. All ages are invited. Call the office to let us know you would like to be on the program. And if you are not ready to perform, come and enjoy the entertainment, this will be a fun night for everyone.
Upcoming Events, details next month
• Earnest Workers Cookie Walk Sunday Oct 26 during coffee hour
• Grinchy Breakfast in WhoV Saturday 22 9 – 12
• Christmas Bazaar Saturday Dec 6, 2025
On-Going Mission Concerns & Needs
• WE HAVE FOOD PANTRY FOR ANYONE YOU KNOW WHO HAVE FINANCIAL CHALLENGES: granola/cereal bars, cereal, food in pouches that doesn’t need heating, pasta, spaghetti sauce, rice, beans, tuna, peanut butter, all types of Non Perishable food. Donations are welcome at any time
• The clothing shed is at the end of the County Street parking lot. Drop off your clothing, shoes, belts, purses, blankets, sheets, curtains, pillowcases or stuffed animal donations in a tied-up bag.
• CANS & BOTTLES MA deposit Only: Save the environment and people!! Bring donations to the green bins - Fall River Ave parking lot- lift lid - drop in clean bottles and cans. DEPOSIT ONLY, no water bottles please.
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Whether you are touched by the warm welcome of our greeters, inspired by our Praise & Worship or empowered by the message, we believe you will feel right at home at FCC. We are blessed with wonderful people from many nations, who come together for a greater purpose than themselves. Creating a loving community looking not just to have church, but be the church in all areas of life.
Sunday 9:30am & Wednesday 7:30pm In Seekonk, on our app & website
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.
Grace Community Chapel
Sunday Morning Worship
Grace Community Chapel is a Bible teaching church and a place of prayer located at 110 County St. in Seekonk. We are a church committed to the historic Christian faith – the good news of Christ’s life, death, and resurrection from the grave.
We worship God together on Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m. Conveniently located ten minutes from Providence, RI near Route 195, our church is easily accessible and we welcome all to join with us in worship to Christ. We are currently preaching through the book of Ephesians.
Join us on Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. as we hear a short devotional from God's word, pray, and encourage one another.
You can visit our website at gccfamily. org or contact us: gccseekonk@gmail.com.
Trunk or Treat
October 25th 5 to 7 pm
Trunk or Treat at Abundant Life Assembly of God, 135 New Meadow Road, Swansea Ma
Popcorn, bounce house, costumes, games and Candy!!
Information or directions call 508-3790780
St. Nicholas of Myra Craft Fair
Sat Nov 1st from 9AM to 2PM
St. Nicholas of Myra Craft Fair on Saturday November 1st from 9 AM To 2 PM at St. Nicholas of Myra Church on Spring St. in North Dighton, MA. Crafters, bake sale, and roll-up table! Kitchen open for breakfast and lunch.
Friday & Saturday , Nov 7th & 8th from 10-4
Coyle Drive, Seekonk
Please join us for fun and games, tv and cash prize raffles, delicious food, baskets galore, jewelry specials, homemade items and crafts, Christmas decor, a New and Almost New table, and yummy baked goods. Hope to see you there.
Memorial Baptist Church News
~Worship Services~
Looking for a church home? We’d love to welcome you! Join us for our weekly Sunday Service at 10:00 AM—come experience uplifting worship, meaningful connection, and a place to belong. Stick around after service for Coffee hour-where friends gather and new connections begin. Sparkling conversation-guaranteed!
~Children & Youth Programs ~
Our newly designed Children and Youth Programs offer fun, faith-filled experiences for students in Grades 1–12. From games and service projects to meaningful lessons, there’s something for everyone! Ready to join the journey? Call the church office to enroll or learn more—we’re excited to welcome you!
~UPCOMING EVENTS ~
~ Brad White Concert~
An Evening with Brad White October 25 | 6pm
Join us for a powerful night of music and ministry as Brad White returns to bless us with his extraordinary gifts! Hailing from Tennessee, Brad brings a heartfelt blend of vocals, piano, and saxophone.
Brad White Ministries is making a global impact—sharing the gospel, offering spiritual, physical, and educational support through feeding programs, building projects, and scholarships across continents.
Despite his full schedule, Brad always makes time to stop here—and we’re thrilled to welcome him back!
Everyone is welcome! Bring a friend, a neighbor, or someone who needs a lift. A free will offering will be taken to support Brad’s ongoing ministry work.
~ Vendors Wanted~
Reserve your table for our Annual Christmas Bazaar -Don’t miss this chance to showcase your goods and be part of a beloved seasonal tradition!
Scheduled for Saturday, November 15, 2025, from 9am -2pm Tables are just $20.00 each, and space is limited—tables available now through October 25, 2025.
To reserve your spot or learn more, contact Gail at 401-2980033.
~ Christmas Bazaar~ November 15th | 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
You’re Invited to the Annual Christmas Bazaar! Hosted by our Women’s Fellowship Team
Step into the joy of the season at our annual Christmas Bazaar— a festive celebration filled with heartwarming cheer, handcrafted treasures, and community spirit. Discover one-of-a-kind gifts, support talented local artisans, and enjoy delicious food concessions while you shop.
Perfect for families, friends, and anyone who loves the wonder of Christmas. Your presence will make the season brighter!
“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 cur-
rent sermon series, check out www.communitycovenant.church. We hope to see you in person this Sunday at 10 am.
October 26th Trunk or Treat from 4pm-6pm!
For more information on our upcoming events go to communitycovenant.church/events. There’s something for everyone to enjoy!”
Holiday Bazaar
Saturday, October 25, 2025 9 am to 6 pm
Sunday, October 26, 2025 8 am to 1:30 pm St. Francis Xavier Church
81 No. Carpenter St., East Providence, RI
It’s that time of year again and our legendary and much loved holiday bazaar is loaded with items for purchase you just can’t live without along with the promise of good food and fun for all. Come on down and see for yourself.
+ Grand Prize Raffle + Christmas Booth + Attic Treasures + Silent Auction + Raffle Baskets + Liquor Raffle Baskets + Wine with a Mystery Restaurant Gift Card + Hand Knitted & Crocheted items, Home Décor, Craft Supplies and more + Baked Goods Booth + Lucky 7’s Ticket Booth + Bazaar (paper game with terrific prizes) + Kids Corner
Stay awhile after shopping to enjoy a delicious and satisfying lunch or dinner and, of course, don’t forget our famous Portuguese malassadas (food fit for the angels) while there.
Newman Congregational Church, UCC Announcements
Blessing of the Animals
October 5, 2025 at Newman Church
Calling all pet owners! On Sunday, Oct. 5 at 11:15 a.m., Newman Congregational Church at 100 Newman Avenue will hold an annual Blessing of the Animals event. This celebration welcomes people and their animal friends across faiths and backgrounds who are all united in shared love of our faithful animal companions.
This year’s event will take place outside Newman Church in the side yard, and will be led by The Rev. Dr. Peter Lovett, former associate minister at Newman Church, who will also be leading the 10:00 Sunday worship service on October 5. All animals, photographs of pets that do not travel, as well as children’s stuffed animals are welcome to come receive a special blessing. Pets must be on leash or in appropriate carriers.
The Blessing of Animals service is held in honor of St. Francis, a twelfth-century Christian revered for his love of nature — a care for animals and creation that animates and inspires many Christians today! For photos and interview opportunities, please reach out to Rev. Sam Lovett at slovett@newmanucc.ord or 401-434-4742.
Community Craft Sale
Saturday, October 11, 2025 9 am – 2 pm
Sellers wanted! Space is limited!
$30 donation for the rental of an 8’ space (table & 2 chairs available for an additional $5), proceeds from your table is 100% yours!
This is an indoor venue, no rain date is needed. The event will be well publicized, in a high-traffic area!
Sellers: Set up after 7:30 am, and you are responsible for the removal of your unsold items.
Oktoberfest
Saturday, October 18, 2025 ~ 6-10 PM
Rumford, R.I. - Newman Congregational Church, U.C.C., is excited to present Oktoberfest 2025 featuring:
• a full German meal with authentic Bavarian fare, including one drink ticket
• a cash bar for beer, wine & non-alcoholic beverages
• a live German band, TubaFrau Hofbräu Band, with our very own Geoff Greene on accordion!
• Newman’s own singers offering German traditional songs
• sing-alongs of our favorite German drinking songs
• raffles
Suggested donation is $30 per person plus processing fees by scanning the QR code. Or purchased through the Church Office at 401-434-4742 X10. All proceeds to benefit the Music Program at Newman Church.
Newman Congregational Church, United Church of Christ is located at 100 Newman Avenue, Rumford, RI 02916. For more information, contact the Church Office at 401-434-4742 X10.
Fall Home Improvement
Home Fire Prevention Tips
Family Features) House fires can be devastating, but taking proactive steps can significantly reduce the risk.
Learn how to safeguard your home and loved ones with these fire prevention tips in honor of Fire Prevention Month.
Install and Maintain Smoke Alarms
Smoke alarms are your first line of defense in case of a fire. They provide early warning, giving you and your family time to evacuate. Ensure you have smoke alarms installed on every level of your home, including inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas. Test your smoke alarms monthly to make sure they’re working properly and replace the batteries at least once a year. If your smoke alarms are more than 10 years old, consider replacing them to ensure optimal performance.
Create an Emergency Evacuation Plan
Sit down with your family and create a detailed plan that includes an exit strategy (or two) from every room in your home. Make sure everyone knows where to meet outside and practice your evacuation plan regularly.
Prevent Kitchen Fires
Cooking is the leading cause of house fires in the United States, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) with fire departments responding to more than 170,000 home cooking fires annually. Always stay in the kitchen while frying, grilling or broiling, and keep flammable items such as potholders, paper towels
and wooden utensils away from the cooking area. Additionally, clean your stove and oven regularly to prevent grease buildup, which can catch fire, and keep a fire extinguisher within easy reach.
Keep Flammable Materials at Bay Store gasoline, propane and other flammable liquids in approved containers and keep them in a well-ventilated area, away from heat sources and out of reach of children. Ensure your home is free of
Tree & Landscape SCHULTHEISS
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excessive clutter, especially in the basement, attic and garage, which can fuel a fire and make it harder to escape.
Maintain Electrical Safety
To help prevent electrical fires - electrical distribution or lighting equipment ranks third among causes for home fires, according to the NFPA - regularly inspect your home’s electrical system. Look for frayed wires, overloaded outlets and malfunctioning appliances. Avoid using extension cords as a permanent solution and never run them under rugs or furniture. Additionally, make sure to use light bulbs with the correct wattage for your fixtures.
Find more tips to help keep your home safe at eLivingtoday.com. Source: eLivingtoday.com
What You Need To Know About Home Equity Loans
(BPT) - If you have large or unexpected expenses on the horizon, you may have access to an untapped resource: your home. You could use some of the equity you’ve built up in your house to meet financial goals, depending on how much equity you have and how you use it.
Here’s a guide from the experts at Navy Federal Credit Union to explain how home equity loans work and when you should - or shouldn’t - use your home’s equity.
What is a home equity loan?
In basic terms, a home equity loan is money you’re borrowing using your home as collateral. The equity in your home equals how much of your home’s value you actually own (not counting the mortgage you’re still paying off).
RE-UPHOLSTER
Home equity loans are frequently offered at lower interest rates than other loans, so they may be a great option for consolidating debt on higher interest credit cards, or large home improvement projects. You can determine how much equity you have in your home, and how much your home equity loan payments are likely to be, using online calculators.
Here are the two most common types of home equity loans:
Fixed-rate equity loan: This is a lump sum amount you’ll draw from your home’s equity, paying back monthly at a fixed interest rate for the life of the loan, so you’ll know exactly what to expect. Fixed-rate home equity loans are typically used for:
• Home improvements/repairs
• Debt consolidation
• Large purchases
• Life events
Home equity line of credit (HELOC): This is a line of credit secured by the home, which lets you borrow funds if and when needed, up to a set maximum credit limit. You only have to repay the funds you borrow. HELOCs are typically used for:
• Home improvements
• Emergency funds
• Medical expenses
• Debt consolidation
The best use of a home equity loan or home equity line of credit is when the money you borrow increases your home’s value via renovations or repairs, as this continues building the equity you’re borrowing against. You may also have tax benefits for using the loan toward home improvements, so it’s recommended to consult a tax professional.
When NOT to use a home equity loan or HELOC
Because these loans use your home as collateral, remember that you’ll want to be sure you can stay on track with loan repayments. For this reason, financial experts advise against using home equity to borrow for things including:
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Starting a business: Your best bet for launching a business is a business loan through a financial institution or the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). If your business fails and you have a home equity loan or HELOC you can’t repay, you’re putting your home on the line.
Recurring expenses: Using home equity to cover everyday bills can be a slippery slope. Consider your long-term ability to repay the loan. Since your home is your collateral, missed payments could lead to foreclosure.
Make a smart plan
Your home equity is a valuable resource for managing your finances. Planning ahead and understanding your repayment responsibilities is crucial for making the best use of a home equity loan or home equity line of credit. For more information and to explore your home equity options, visit NavyFederal. org/equity. Navy Federal is federally insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Lender.
A Guide to Identifying Common Garage Door Issues
(Family Features) Garage doors can experience a variety of issues, from minor annoyances to major malfunctions. However, regular maintenance can not only ensure safety and longevity, but also prevent small issues from escalating into costly problems. Common problems include the door not opening or closing properly, unusual noises during operation, the door reversing before it fully closes, uneven door movement and slow response time from the opener or remote control.
Identifying the root cause is the first step to fixing the issue.
• Door not opening or closing properly: This could be due to misaligned sensors, which can be fixed by adjusting the sensor brackets at the bottom of the tracks or cleaning the lenses.
• Noisy door: This can typically be resolved by tightening all the hardware, including hinges, bolts and screws - as well as the opener’s chain or belt - or lubricating the moving parts such as rollers, hinges and tracks. Be sure to replace any that are worn out or damaged.
• Door reversing before it hits the floor: Often caused by an obstruction in the path of the door or a misadjusted limit setting. Check for an object blocking the door (or a sensor) or reset the limit to alleviate.
• Door moving unevenly: Possibly due to worn-out springs or cables, it’s often best to replace the damaged parts.
• Slow opener response time: Try reprogramming the opener or replacing the
batteries in the remove control to get more prompt response times (and potentially range) from your opener.
While many garage door maintenance tasks can be handled by homeowners, certain situations warrant professional intervention. For instance, if you notice significant damage to the springs or cables, it’s best to call a professional.
Discover more easy and effective DIY solutions for common garage door problems at eLivingtoday.com.
Source: eLivingtoday.com
7 Steps for Maintaining a Clean Stovetop
(Family Features) A clean stove is not just about aesthetics; it’s also about functionality and safety. Grease and food residue can become a fire hazard and affect the taste and quality of your food if not properly managed.
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your stovetop sparkling. After each use, wipe down the surface to prevent grime buildup. Then periodically - once a week, if possible - give it a more thorough cleaning with this step-by-step guide.
1. Ensure your stove is off and completely cooled before cleaning to avoid damage to the stove and cleaning tools.
2. For gas stoves, carefully remove the grates, burners and drip pans and soak them in warm, soapy water.
3. Use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe down the surface and remove food particles and loose debris.
4. Apply a mild, non-abrasive stove cleaner - either commercial or a DIY solution consisting of water and baking soda, vinegar or soap - generously to the surface.
5. Use a non-abrasive scrubber or soft cloth to gently scrub the surface. For tougher spots, sprinkle baking soda then spray with vinegar. Let it fizz and sit for a few minutes before scrubbing.
6. Wipe down the surface again with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue.
7. Dry the stovetop thoroughly with a soft cloth.
Find more tips and tricks for keeping your home neat and tidy at eLivingtoday.com.
Source: eLivingtoday.com
MH Home Services
Food & Dining Guide
A Comforting Casserole
(Culinary.net) Almost nothing says comfort food quite like a freshly baked casserole. Next time your family asks for a warm, comforting meal, try this Rotisserie Chicken-Biscuit Casserole with just a handful of ingredients and less than 15 minutes of cook time. Find more comfort food recipes at Culinary.net.
Rotisserie Chicken-Biscuit Casserole
Ingredients
• 1 whole rotisserie chicken
• 8 refrigerated biscuits
• 1 can (10 3/4 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup sour cream
Heat oven to 450 F.
• 2 cups frozen vegetables
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper
Directions:
Remove meat from rotisserie chicken and shred; set aside. Discard bones.
Cut biscuits into quarters; set aside.
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In saucepan, stir soup, milk, sour cream, chicken, vegetables, basil and pepper. Cook until boiling.
Spoon chicken mixture into baking dish. Arrange quartered biscuits over filling.
Bake 10-12 minutes, or until biscuits are golden brown.
Enjoy a Delicious Twist on a Classic Casserole
(Culinary.net) Comfort food made easy, this Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is loaded with ground turkey, bacon and vegetables in a creamy sauce topped with tater tots and cheese.
When weeknights get busy, this slow cooker recipe is sure to be a smash hit. It’s simple; just mix the ingredients together and let the slow cooker do the heavy lifting.
Visit Culinary.net to find more quick family meal ideas.
Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole
Recipe adapted from “Julie’s Eats and Treats” Servings: 5 Ingredients
• 1 pound lean ground turkey
• 5 bacon strips, diced
• 1/2 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 1/2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 dash hot sauce
• 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese,
plus additional for topping (optional), divided
• 1 bag (6-8 ounces) frozen mixed vegetables
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• nonstick cooking spray
• 1 bag (16 ounces) frozen tater tots
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
Directions
In large skillet over medium heat, brown ground turkey, bacon, onion and garlic until turkey is no longer pink. Sprinkle flour over turkey and stir well to combine. Stir in milk, Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce. Cook 2-3 minutes, or until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese, frozen vegetables and sour cream. Spray slow cooker with nonstick spray. Place some tater tots in bottom of slow cooker. Pour meat gravy over tater tots. Arrange remaining tater tots on top.
Cover and cook on low 3-3 1/2 hours. During last 10 minutes of cooking, sprinkle with extra cheddar cheese, if desired. Cover and finish cooking.
Source: Culinary.net
A Comfort Food Classic
(Culinary.net) ’Tis the season for comfort foods, and this recipe with crumbled bacon and cubed potatoes smothered in melted cheddar cheese is sure to satisfy.
Find more meal ideas at Culinary.net.
Cheesy Baked Potato Casserole
Ingredients
• 5 pounds red potatoes, cubed
• 1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 pound cheddar cheese, cubed
• 16 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 8 ounces sour cream
• 1 tablespoon minced chives
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Directions
Heat oven to 325 F.
In large bowl, combine potatoes and bacon.
In separate large bowl, combine cheese, onion, mayonnaise, sour cream, chives, salt and pepper. Add to potato and bacon mixture until combined.
Pour into 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Bake 50-60 minutes until browned and bubbly.
Cheesy, Comforting Chicken
(Culinary.net) A quick and easy way to get comfort food on your dinner table is this recipe for Cheesy Baked Mushroom Chicken. Add some green beans and mashed cauliflower for a well-rounded meal for your family.
For more comfort food recipes, visit Culinary.net.
Cheesy Baked Mushroom Chicken
Ingredients
Nonstick cooking spray
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup flour
4 tablespoons butter
8 ounces mushrooms, sliced 1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
Directions
Heat oven to 375 F. Prepare baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Cut each chicken breast in half. Place flour in resealable bag. Place chicken in resealable bag with flour; toss to coat.
In large skillet, melt butter. Add chicken to skillet; brown all sides. Transfer chicken from skillet to 11-by-7-inch baking dish.
In skillet, saute sliced mushrooms in remaining butter until softened. Add chicken broth, salt and pepper. Bring to boil then cook 5 minutes. Spoon over chicken. Bake 15 minutes. Sprinkle with cheeses and green onions. Bake 5 minutes, or until cheese is melted.
Zucchini Spice Bundt Cake
Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”
Ingredients
• 1 box spice cake mix
• 2 cups grated zucchini
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 3 eggs
• 1 cup chopped walnuts, divided
• 1 cup chopped white choc chips, divided
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• milk
Directions:
Heat oven to 350 F.
In bowl, mix cake mix, zucchini, butter, eggs, 3/4 cup walnuts and 3/4 cup white chocolate chips. Pour into greased bundt pan and bake 40 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
Let cool about 10 minutes then remove from pan to finish cooling.
Mix powdered sugar and milk, about 1/4 cup, to reach desired consistency of frosting. Pour over cooled cake then sprinkle with remaining walnuts and remaining white chocolate chips. Cut and serve.
Fresh Ginger Cookies
Servings: 24
Ingredients:
• 2 cups flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup salted butter, softened
• 1 cup, plus 3 tbsp, sugar, divided
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup grated fresh ginger
Directions:
Heat oven to 350 F.
In medium bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon and salt. Set aside.
In stand mixer, beat butter, 1 cup sugar and brown sugar until fluffy. Add egg and fresh ginger; beat until combined. Gradually add dry ingredients to mixer until combined.
In small bowl, add remaining sugar. Using spoon, portion out dough, roll into balls then roll in sugar. Arrange balls on baking sheet at least 1 inch apart.
Bake 14 minutes, or until edges are golden brown. Transfer cookies to cooling rack and cool completely.
Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Ingredients:
• Water
• 1 1/2 cups raw pumpkin seeds
• 2 teaspoons sea salt, plus more for sea-
soning (optional)
• 2 tsp salted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
Diections:
In pot over high heat, bring water to boil. Add pumpkin seeds and 2 teaspoons salt; boil 15 minutes. Drain water and spread seeds evenly on paper towels to dry.
Preheat oven to 350 F. Line baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
In medium bowl, toss seeds and butter until coated well. Sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika and additional salt, if desired. Spread seeds evenly on baking sheet.
Bake 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and lightly toasted. Stir every 10 minutes.
Source: Culinary.net
In Rememberance
Russell Alan Ford
Attleboro, MA - Russell Alan Ford, 67, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September. 3, 2025 after a brief hospitalization, with his family by his side.
A lifelong resident of southern New England, Russell lived most of his life in Attleboro, Massachusetts, close to his large and tightly knit family. He was a skilled and accomplished carpenter by trade; building things from the ground up was his art form.
Russ loved golfing, fishing and cheering on the Red Sox. He loved tending to the garden and sharing a
great meal. But more than anything, he loved his family. Russ had a huge, overflowing heart. There was always more space inside for the people he cared so much about, whether that was his wife, his kids and grandkids, his siblings and parents, or the people in his life whom he made feel like family, even if they weren’t related by blood. He was the kind of person you could always count on, and so many people did. He will be missed by everyone who was lucky enough to know him.
Russell leaves behind his wife of 38 years, Deborah (Klegraefe) Ford; his daughter, Meaghan (Ford) Souza and her wife, Amanda Souza; grandkids, Braedon, Savannah, Penelope and Amelia; his son, Nicholas Ford and his wife, Catherine Goodroe; mother, Eileen Gaudette; father, Joseph Ford and stepmother, Maureen Ford; brother, Karl Ford; sisters, Cheryl (Ford) Withers, Kimberly (Ford) Taverna and her husband, David Taverna, and Susan (Ford) McHale and her husband, Gary McHale; and many other loved ones including nieces, nephews, cousins and in-laws in both the Ford and Klegraefe families.
VISITATION was held on Saturday, September 13th from 10 a.m. to Noon at WILLIAM W. TRIPP Funeral Home, 1008 Newport Ave., Pawtucket, followed by SERVICES at Noon in the funeral home. www.TrippFuneralHome.com
Daniel (Danny) Gallucci Jr May 11th, 1958 – August 1st, 2025
Danny Gallucci, our Daddy, passed away on August,1 2025. He loved us so very much. He told us that we were the light of his life! He was the most silly, handsome, caring Daddy ever! He was a pipefitter/ electrician and owned a very successful business, called Sun Plumbing & Heating Company. He was loved by both the community he served as well as his employees . He lived in Warwick, Rhode Island as a child and then moved to Seekonk Massachusetts for his adult life. He graduated from
Seekonk High School in 1977 where he had many friends. He would always tell us about all the happy memories he had from there. Daddy was an amazing musician and played the drums and guitar like no other! Music was a big part of his life. Three Dog Night was his favorite band! He also loved bodybuilding and worked out as long President as he was able to. His favorite bodybuilder was Dave Draper and he even met him once! Daddy loved nature, mountains and being outside! He loved red corvettes and has had one ever since he was a teenager! The beautiful memories of Daddy taking us to the ocean is something we will cherish forever! He never missed any of our soccer games and always cheered us on when we were little ! He was always there for us.! Blue eyes, baseball hats, fitted t-shirts, his black leather jacket and jeans, your silly dance, your mirror for that “Perfect Appearance!” Sponge Bob and “Cranky Baby”! That’s our Daddy ! His two favorite necklaces that he wore every day, his guitar necklace and his drumstick necklace, we now wear and cherish. Daddy, you will always be The Best Rockstar of all Time! Daddy, this doesn’t seem real and we miss you so very much, but we know that we are a part of you so you will be forever alive in our hearts! Love, Your Daughters, Victoria ( Pumpky, My First Born Baby, as you would call me !) and Gianna (Geege, My Second Born Baby, as you would call me! )
There was a celebration of our Daddy’s life on Saturday, September 6, at 11:30AM. Pulaski Park, 151 Pulaski Road, Chepachet, RI 02815
Russell Alan Ford
Daniel (Danny) Gallucci Jr
Jason K. Landry of Rehoboth
Daniel A. Laneres Sandra M. Reis Fala Português
Michael S.
Frances M. Pray (Branco)
Frances M. Pray (Branco), age 97, passed away peacefully on September 24, 2025, in Bristol, Rhode Island. Born in Rehoboth, Massachusetts, Frances was the daughter of Francisco and Johanna (Correia) Branco. She graduated from East Providence High School with the Class of 1947 and went on to build a fulfilling life rooted in family, hard work, and joyful pursuits.
Frances worked as a bookkeeper throughout her career, lending her skills to Sunnybrook Farms, Alperts Furniture, and Richard Pray Equipment. Her dedication and attention to detail were hallmarks of her professional life.
She met the love of her life at the Hollywood Ballroom while enjoying one of her favorite pastimes—ballroom and square dancing. That serendipitous meeting led to a long and loving marriage with Richard Pray Sr., with whom she shared many adventures. Together they spent winters as snowbirds in Florida, where they remained active in community activities and embraced the warmth of both climate and companionship.
A woman of many talents and interests, Frances found joy in gardening and crafting—especially knitting and crocheting. Her hands were rarely still, always creating something beautiful or nurturing something to bloom. Known for her quick wit and playful spirit, she was a beloved jokester who brought laughter into every room she entered.
Frances leaves behind a legacy of love through her children: Margaret Bouchard and her husband Albert; Carol Pray Mahler and her husband Harold; Richard Pray Jr. and his wife Marie; Robert Pray Sr. and his wife Lynn; and Sandra Amaral and her husband Sylvester. She was a proud grandmother to Laura, John, Robert, Russell, Matthew, Jessica, Jennie, Ryan, Sean, and Seth; greatgrandmother to 19; great-great-grandmother to 4, and aunt to several beloved nieces and nephews, and grandnieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her parents Francisco and Johanna
Branco as well as her beloved husband Richard Pray Sr., her four siblings: Angeline Botelho, Mary Santos, Frank Branco, and Alice Primrose memory she cherished throughout her life.
Frances’s vibrant spirit lives on in the hearts of those who knew her. May her memory bring comfort to all who mourn her passing.
Calling hours for Frances will take place on Friday, October 10, 2025 from 10AM12PM at Hathaway Community Home for Funerals, 900 Buffinton St., Somerset with a service immediately following at 12PM. Burial to follow at Rehoboth Village Cemetery. In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her honor to the Alzheimer’s Association. https://www.alz.org/get-involvednow/donate. To express condolences to the family or to light a candle, please visit:www. hathawayfunerals.com.
Frances M. Pray
James A. Walker
James A. Walker, 94, of Coventry, formerly of Damariscotta, ME, died peacefully on September 22, 2025. He was the husband of the late Doris E. (Bennett) Walker. Born in Tralee, WV, he was a son of the late Carl E. Walker and Aileen (Rose) Walker.
Mr. Walker was an executive with the ConTel Corporation for many years until his retirement. Active in Masonry, James was a member of Alna-Anchor Lodge, of Damariscotta, ME, St. Patrick’s Lodge, F & AM in New York, and Eastern Star Lodge
A.F. & A.M. in Rehoboth. He was a descendant of the Fuller Family who arrived in the United States on the Mayflower, settling in the Barnstable area.
He proudly served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War and was stationed Alaska.
He leaves his siblings, Joseph P. Walker of Ajijic, Mexico and Larry E. Walker of Orlando, FL. He was the brother of the late Mildred J. Walker Morgan, Carl E. Walker, Howard L. Walker, and Donald F. Walker. He also leaves many nieces and nephews.
Friends were invited to call on Tuesday, September 30, 2025 from 11:00 to 12:00 P.M. with a service to follow in the Home of J.H. WILLIAMS & CO., 210 Taunton Avenue, East Providence. Burial will follow in Rehoboth Village Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, gifts in his memory to Harmony Hospice, 931 Jefferson Blvd, Suite 3004, Warwick, RI 02886 will be appreciated.
Death Notice Rehoboth
• Jan Endriss Eskelund, 71, of Rehoboth, MA passed away unexpectedly at her residence on September 10, 2025, following a period of declining health.
Robert Morris
Morris
Robert Morris, 78 of Pawtucket, RI passed away on July 9, 2025. Arrangements provided by J.H. Williams Funeral Home.
James A. Walker
Robert
Rehoboth Ramblings
By Leslie Patterson
Learning from the Past
Thanks to the folks at the Carpenter Museum for their excellent symposium on Rehoboth and its Veterans in the American Revolution symposium recently and to everyone who took part in it. It was interesting to see all the veterans’ names on the roster, and to see how so many local family names carried on from then until the present day.
My own Revolutionary War Massachusetts ancestors were from Ashby and we believe they were at the Battle of Bunker Hill with Col. Prescott. This isn’t a story we grew up with. My sister was doing some genealogy research just a few years ago and turned up this fascinating bit of information. Since then, I’ve wondered how many Americans, especially those outside New England, could trace their ancestors back to this period and don’t even realize it. It was a long time ago and people kept moving on, moving west, and family stories got left behind over the years.
Thanks also to Hank Coleman for his inspiring talk about the Founding Fathers and what they went through to give us a democracy. The British considered them traitors to the crown and, if captured, they would have faced an excruciating execution, the penalty for treason. I wish our brave Founding Fathers could somehow appear to us now in these troubled times. We could use their sage advice.
The ordinary soldiers in the Revolutionary War endured great hardships and not just at Valley Forge. Only in recent years did I learn of the Prison Ship Martyrs Monument (designed by famous architect Stanford White) in Fort Greene Park in Brooklyn, NY. This monument commemorates the over 11,500 American patriots who died on British prison ships during the Revolutionary War. And of course, closer to home, Minute Man National Historical Park in Concord is an interesting place to visit again and again, especially since this year is the 250th anniversary of the battle.
I’ll be eager to see Ken Burns new film (on PBS in November) on the American Revolution. Burns is meticulous in his research and always a trustworthy source of historical information. I believe this time Burns will actually include re-enactors. This should make his film a bit livelier than just showing old photographs and paintings, since we are all so used to seeing moving images all the time. There are any number of good books about the Revolutionary War too.
Why should we care about the past? Because it’s important to know where we came from and what life was like for our ancestors. For example, everyone in colonial New England, even the most prosperous families, lived much harder lives than we do today. No plumbing, no running water, no electricity, no central heating at a time when winters were colder than they are now. Getting anywhere was an ordeal since roads were unpaved and the fastest you could go was the speed of a running horse. It was also a time of fear of epidemics.
Modern medicine was in its infancy and lifespans were much shorter. Many women died in childbirth, leaving motherless children. Most families lost at least one child, sometimes even several children, to illnesses that we can prevent today. Life may have had it joys, but it could certainly be grim as well.
Which brings me to repeat myself: Vaccines have helped us get through life without the many often fatal diseases that carried off so many of our ancestors, including but not limited to, smallpox, tetanus, diphtheria, whooping cough, polio, measles and pneumonia. In the words of a book with a great title, “The Good Old Days – They Were Terrible”. Let’s not forget that.
If those who fear vaccines would stop and think about what modern medicine has brought us in terms of quality of life, perhaps they could take a more reasoned view of the subject. It’s best to take medical advice only from a doctor or other qualified medical person. Only professionals who have studied medicine through rigorous accredited training should be consulted for reliable advice on healthcare.
And only highly trained, competent medical/science professionals should be in the important position of making public healthcare policy. This is literally a matter of life and death. Otherwise, anyone in authority dispensing dubious, unproven, and possibly harmful healthcare information should just be accused of practicing medicine without a license, no matter what public position they hold. Science matters.
Representative Steven Howitt
From the State House
Representative Steven S. Howitt Supports Moving 2026 State
Election Date to September 1
Change will help Massachusetts comply with State and Federal ballot deadlines
Boston – With the support of State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R-Seekonk), the House has given its preliminary approval to changing the date of the 2026 state primary from September 15 to September 1.
The House endorsed the change in date on September 17. The proposal, House Bill 4531, still requires Senate approval and Governor Maura Healey’s signature before the change becomes effective.
Representative Howitt said moving next year’s scheduled primary date up by two weeks will provide some flexibility to help ensure that Massachusetts can meet all state and federal ballot deadlines, including a requirement that military personnel serving overseas receive an absentee ballot at least 45 days before the November 3, 2026 state election, pursuant to the federal Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act.
Under current state law, the state primary must be held seven weeks prior to the biennial state election, as long as that date does not coincide with a religious holiday. The House proposal would set the new 2026 state primary date at nine weeks prior to the November election.
According to Representative Howitt, House Bill 4531 establishes a deadline of September 3 for successful write-in or sticker candidates to file an acceptance of nomination to appear on the November ballot. In addition, the bill outlines the process for filling a vacancy that occurs in the event a candidate dies, withdraws, or is ruled ineligible for the November ballot.
Representative Howitt noted that House Bill 4531 also contains provisions outlining the process for conducting recounts following the 2026 state primary. It requires recount petitions to be filed by 5 p.m. on September 3, with local certification due by noontime on September 4, and submission to the Secretary of State’s office by 5 p.m. the same day.
Under the bill, recounts must be completed and notification of the final results issued by 5 p.m. on September 11. The bill requires two days’ notice to candidates on the date, time and location of the recount, with electronic notice deemed sufficient.
House Bill 4531 now moves to the Senate for its consideration.
Representative Steven S. Howitt Backs Bill Providing $234m to Fiscally Strained Hospitals and Community Health Centers
Infusion of state aid will help support Massachusetts’ health care system
Boston – State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R-Seekonk) is supporting a supplemental spending bill that will steer $234 million in one-time state aid payments to dozens of acute care hospitals and community health centers across the state.
The proposal, filed as House Bill 4530, received initial approval from the House of Representatives on September 17, when it was engrossed on a vote of 148-1. The bill still requires Senate approval and Governor Maura Healey’s signature before it can become law.
Representative Howitt said the bill will provide $122 million to nearly four dozen acute care hospitals, with funding eligibility for individual hospitals determined primarily based on the facility’s public payer mix, relative price, and negative operating margins. House Bill 4530 also requires the secretary of the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) to submit a report to the legislature detailing the schedule of payments and how each hospital intends to utilize the funding.
Another $77 million will be transferred into the Health Safety Net Trust Fund, which reimburses acute care hospitals and community health centers for health services provided to eligible low-income, uninsured, and underinsured residents. In Fiscal Year 2024, the Health Safety Net Trust Fund experienced a shortfall of $197 million, but a recent report issued by the Centers for Health Information and Analysis noted that the fund’s deficit was projected to reach $250 million in Fiscal Year 2025 and $290 million in the current fiscal year.
Representative Howitt said most of the remaining $35 million authorized in the bill will be allocated to community health centers that demonstrate significant financial needs, as determined by EOHHS in consultation with the Massachusetts League of Community
Health Centers (MLCHC). The MLCHC will be provided with $2.5 million of this funding, which will be used to facilitate regional savings initiatives, including shared service options.
According to Representative Howitt, the bill stipulates that these one-time payments cannot be used by hospitals or community health centers to offset Medicaid payments. In addition, it prohibits EOHHS from using this funding to calculate future payments and requires the EOHHS secretary to maximize federal financial participation in making these one-time payments.
House Bill 4530 now moves to the Senate for its consideration.
CLASSIFIEDS
YARD SALE
Seekonk Yard Sale: 5 GEORGE STREET, SEEKONK, Sat. OCT 4 (rain date Oct 5) 9 am to 1 pm. Yard sale. Moving sale. Furniture, Art Prints/Paintings, Miscellaneous.
GIANT MULTI-FAMILY NEIGHBORHOOD YARD SALE
Sunday, October 19th from 8am - 4 pm. 9 Union Street, Riverside and beyond.
FOR SALE
24” Ariens Snow King Snowblower, 1 owner gas Tecumsa 8.5 horsepower, used very little, electric start, always serviced, New $1300, closest offer to $500. Call 774-930-5059.
EVENTS
Seekonk Flea Market at Seekonk Speedway is open 7am-1pm every Sunday until December 7th, 2025. So many vendors with a large variety of items – there’s something for everyone! Vendors & Patrons welcome and wanted! Will re-open for the new season March 29, 2026! For more information, call Linda at 401-263-5737.
HELP WANTED
Advocare Senior Living is a non-medical agency looking for compassionate caregivers to work with seniors in our area. We offer competitive pay and flexible hours including days, nights, weekends, and overnights. Duties include companionship, light housekeeping, taking clients to appointments, running errands and meal prep. Please call 401-434-6727 for more information.
COMPANIONS NEEDED ~ job is for 5 Days a Week – 5 Hours per Day – Salary is $30 per Hour. clean record, good recommendations, mobile, with many skills for more details about the position. email me (manuelandrea062@gmail.com)
HELP WANTED Seekonk Flea Market is looking for general help, every Sunday between now and December 7th, 5am-12pm, Call Linda at 401-263-5737.
Yard Work Help Wanted: Teenage boy or girl to do yard work part time, $15/hr. Call 401-433-2922.
WANTED
Wanted: Cash paid for your military items. Uniforms, Field Gear, Swords, Knives, Muskets etc. Looking for Revolutionary War, Civil War, WWI, WWII, and Vietnam items. Text or call and/or send photos. 508-574-4392.
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.
Almeida Farms will be hosting an open farm day Sunday October 26, 2025 from 10 am to 2 pm. Come meet the cows and learn where some of your local milk is produced! We are located at 137 Barney Ave, Rehoboth MA 02769.
Plants for Sale: House plants, annuals, perennials, succulents, good variety from $1- $10. Free plant with visit. Call 401-433-2922.
Free seasoned horse manure by the bucket, barrel or truck. Call 508-353-7470.
HORSE TRAILER FOR SALE: Kingston Windsor , Two horse bumper pull 1998. Good condition. Low miles. Oversized. Anticorrosive steel frame. Very good tires/new spare. Interior dome light. Extras: Padded ceiling; Draw-Tite Activator II brake control; Diamond padded aluminum gravel guard ; sway bar; DIG Brake Box; custom made, removable stall divider; “releasable” breast and butt supports. GVW 5,900 lbs. Just serviced and checked. Sadly selling due to injuries. $ 6,295. Call/Txt 508-269-2600. Rehoboth, MA
SERVICES
Housecleaning: Is your home in need of a really good cleaning? Whether you need a 1-time cleaning, or regular cleanings. Years of experience! (We include fridge and oven w/ our cleanings) Call Gil for details 508-840-6611.
I am a Personal Care Assistant & Housekeeper willing to help you! I can help you with meal prep, medication reminders, shower assistance, shopping/errands, laundry, light cleaning. Call Terri for information and rates. 774-284-7600.
Handyman/Home Repairs/Improvements: GSS Property Solutions LLC. Registered, Bonded, Fully Insured. Servicing Mass & RI. Call or Text 401-688-9749.
Bicycle Sales & Service: Your Bike Shops –Tune-ups on all brands. October is a great time to ride the bike path and check out the foliage! 2 locations: in Riverside next to CVS 401-433-4491, and in Warren next to the Police Station and the bike path. Call Art or Joe for *NEW* hours and service. 401-245-9755
BIG BLUE REMOVAL SERVICE: Attic, Cellar, Total House. We take everything! Furniture, Brush, Appliances, Yard Waste, Construction Debris, Trash…Demolition of Fences, Sheds, Decks, Pools. Let us do the work. Free Estimates. BEST PRICES. Call Tony 508-226-1295 or 508-889-0824; www.BigBlueJunkRemovals.com.
