The Seeko Seekon nk
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SEPTEMBER 2026 VOLUME 38, NO. 9
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A New School Year Begins See page 65 for Back to School
2 The Reporter September 2026
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September 2026 The Reporter
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4 The Reporter September 2026
Letters to the Editor... 25th Anniversary ”Where Were You On Nine- Eleven?” September 11, 2001, or simply “9/11”. I’d bet you are pausing (here) to recall where, and what you were doing that Tuesday This 25th anniversary (for me) some added reflection of a singular day within a very special week.
Father and son aboard the USS Boxer on 9/11/01, a day of many emotions.
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The Navy calls them; “TIGER CRUISES”: Relatives of marine and navy personnel; “The Tigers” – are invited to spend time aboard ships transiting the last leg of a deployment. I would join my son Ben, a marine captain/aviator (AH1W Cobra) for this Tiger Cruise from Pearl Harbor to San Diego. 11 September, (Day 6) 0630 hours; USS BOXER – LHD 4 (Landing Helicopter Dock). Ship’s position is at the western end of the Pacific Time Zone. Dawn has yet to peek above the horizon. The sky at this hour holds a pleasant purple-gray hue, which, upon meeting the ocean becomes ink-black. Boxer, turning 19 knots (a bit under 22 MPH) against a slight breeze, has a rhythm of a slow mild pitch – bow to stern. As has been my daily routine, I’m stretching out for my morning jog (9 1/2 deck laps = 3 miles). Perhaps it’s the time zone change – 5 to 6 AM, there aren’t many on deck this morning. I am 3 laps into my run and have just passed the Bridge/ Island. Ben’s squadron HMLA (Helicopter Marine Light Attack) 267 is holding a logistics meeting for departing the ship 2 days hence. My solitude is broken by the shrill whistle of the bosun which precludes any announcement; “Attention all hands this is the captain speaking. We’ve just received a report that a small plane has crashed into the World Trade Center in New York. Will advise when more is known.” WOW! (To no one in particular), and I continue my jog. I had just completed lap 4 and had settled into a stride which feels good given the ship’s motion. The Bosun Whistle sounds once more. “This the captain speaking. A second aircraft crashed into the World Trade Center. This is not an accident but appears to be a deliberate attack on the United States. Stand by for further information and orders.” I am about 200 feet from the ship’s bow. It’s like my feet are embedded in cement, breath sucked from my lungs. And, except for the muffled sounds of the chains, which hold the aircraft in place, there is silence. A surreal moment (forever etched in my brain) lies with how the sky had lost its pleasant morning hues and is now Inkblack with no discernable line from sky to sea. There is no dawn. The morning became very dark indeed. Over breakfast there is a subdued conversation among Tigers. Information from back East is slow to come, and very grim. The Pentagon is attacked. A plane is taken down in Pennsylvania. No one leaves the Officer’s Mess. We’re just too stunned by it all. By noon (Pacific Time), Boxer is on “Alert.” The crew would spend the afternoon loading Sparrow Anti-Aircraft missiles and running through combat system checks. There was no doubt in my mind, America would retaliate and my son, those marines and sailors I’ve been with, would soon be “the-pointy-end-of-the-spear.” I tried not to show the fear gnawing inside me. As sordid as the day had been, the Pacific sunset rewarded us, casting brilliant hues of orange, pink, blue and purple. Most, if not all the Tigers, a number of off duty navy and marines, were gathered on deck. Faces looking toward this majesty playing out before us. Not a word spoken, just quiet introspection of thoughts. It’s been a momentous day, but as I scan faces, I’d bet the anticipation for getting home after a 6 month deployment is foremost on the mind for all.
EPILOGE
I decided to call it a day. Upon returning to my quarters, I find a folded sheet of paper on my bunk. It’s an E mail from my wife Beth which Ben had dropped off but didn’t mention while we were enjoying the sunset. Having no way to contact her, yet knowing
September 2026 The Reporter she was far from any danger, I had but a few thoughts “for her day.” There is much more to this, as I learned upon arriving home. But, at that moment, 2100 hrs., 9/11/01, the gravity for events of the day, and then her Email: “FLAG IS OUT. LIGHT IS ON. BE SAFE. LOVE MOM.” I wept. LEST WE FORGET. It had been 27 years since I last wore the uniform (USAR). It was at a time when the nation was very split over the politics of the day, (sound familiar?) as well as the conduct of war policy. Serving one’s country was not popular, and Esprit de Corp, largely nonexistent. Not many get an opportunity to spend a day, let alone a week, with men and women who at the (ripe old) average age 19 ½, train and perform in a hazardous occupation in a stressful setting twenty-four-seven. “WAR FIGHTING”’. Most of us could not or would not want to learn such skills. The occupation requires, no it demands dedication to constant training, and an intricacy of concentration far and away greater than a civilian job and exceeds that of any sport. The pay? Still isn’t all that good either. In fact, when one takes the oath to uphold and defend the Constitution, they sign over a blank check to Uncle Sam “for an amount up to and including their life.” There was a much different optic for me of military duty. I felt a strong mix of wonder and respect for what was going on around me. It was a blessing to watch my son conducting his daily regimen; An intuitive officer and leader, always in motion, patient – calm- instructive, and in the air(?) INDEFATIGABLE! Yeah, there were some “SIERRA HOTEL” (Google that) maneuvers to a blaring sound system accompaniment of Wagners “Ride of the Valkyries” complete with guns and rockets. Nothing on any bucket list which might compare. The week may also be unique, in that, I have yet to meet another father who has had such an experience and wears the Gold Star. I can say with certainty; “That too is a blessing.” So, as you recall where you were; “9/11”, twenty-five years ago, take a moment to recall an idea, which became a declaration, which for the last 250 years has endured as the foundation of the republic. Then, offer a prayer of solemn gratitude for those who serve in harm’s way to preserve such. Very Respectfully, I Remain, Steven B. Sammis Rehoboth resident – 54 years Proud Parent of Three Sons, One just happened to be a US Marine
On the Cover: Photo by Earle Dias Photography
Inside This Issue BACK TO SCHOOL...................65 Business Directory.....................76 Church News..............................42 Classifieds...............................78 Club Announcements.................51 Events......................................46 Food & Dining.............................41 Letters to the Editor.....................4 Library......................................
In Loving Memory
David Katseff loved Rehoboth, volunteering and serving in town for many years. Later he enjoyed taking long walks, often five miles or more, in Rehoboth and took many photographs. He passed, unexpectedly, in July 2023. In his Memory I am submitting a few of them, reflecting the beauty of our town and humor. Sincerely, Sharon Katseff
Blanding.......................61 Seekonk.......................56 Obituaries................................71 People in the News....................37 Rehoboth COA...........................17 Rehoboth Ramblings..................44 Rehoboth Town News.................7
Horses in Shade 9 10 2022
School News..............................62 Scouts...................................74 Seekonk Human Services..........33 Seekonk Town News..................19 Sour Grapes................................74
Fisherman Perryville Falls 9 10 2022
Voting in Rehoboth 10 22 2020
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6 The Reporter September 2026
Frustration Over the Medeiros Farm Project
I am writing to express my frustration with the participation of selectboard member Robert Archambault in the discussion and vote of the Mederios Farm project at the selectboard joint meeting of June 24,2026. As a member of the planning board, I know that as an abutter you are not allowed to participate or vote in any decision where you are an abutter. It is a rule that applies to every single board and committee member. The rules are there for a reason and you do not get to choose which one you will follow. I hope that Mr. Archambault will do the right thing and recuse himself from any matter that comes before the selectboard pertaining to the Mederios Farm project going forward. Jo-Ann Perry
The letters in this section and opinion articles do not reflect the views of the staff of The Reporter. It is not our intent to take sides on any issues, but to present all arguments from all points of view. If your point of view is not represented on an issue, it is only because you have not voiced your opinion. Let us hear from YOU!
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On June 24, 2026, three people accomplished what two petitionled warrant articles could not do: they stopped the Medeiros Farm design study and put the Committee’s work on hold. Since then, we’ve heard a growing list of explanations for that decision. But there’s a difference between gathering information to make a decision and building a story to defend a choice already made. Think about buying a car. You decide you want it. You focus on what you like and find plenty of ways to justify buying it. They may all sound reasonable. But you chose the car first. Then you built the story around the choice. At Town Meeting, voters approved the purchase of the Medeiros Farm 145–6. Later, more than 65% approved funding for the design study, and voters overwhelmingly rejected the two petition-led warrant articles aimed at stopping it. The message from Town Meeting has repeatedly been: move forward. So why did three members of the Select Board stop the professional work needed to turn a conceptual plan into a final design — the work that could actually answer the questions raised by abutters, the community and the Board itself? If there are concerns with the contract, why not fix them? There’s a practical problem, too. The conceptual Master Plan has already changed significantly, and it would likely change again if the design study were allowed to move forward — that’s the point of a design study. The Select Board is running its traffic study on a moving target. If those numbers go before the Zoning Board of Appeals, it won’t be judging the final design. It will be judging a plan that may no longer exist — a permitting decision made on numbers that may no longer apply. When another explanation surfaces for why the design study can’t move forward, remember the car. Did the information lead to the decision — or did the decision come first, and the story follow? Get the whole picture. This one-of-a-kind opportunity — to preserve Seekonk’s farming heritage, create space for active and passive recreation, and offer unique educational opportunities — is for the entire town. It is worth getting right. That means doing the design study, with neighborhood input, and making decisions based on real numbers, not a moving target. Respectfully submitted, Anne Miller
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September 2026 The Reporter
Rehoboth Town News From the Town Clerk
Hello All – Another month has quickly flown by. I hope you have been enjoying your summer and staying healthy and safe. As the summer draws to a close, I also hope you had an enjoyable Labor Day weekend!
September 1, 2026 State Primary Election Results
Thanks to the generosity of the Rehoboth Reporter, they delayed the submission of my article so we could include the Tuesday, SepLaura Schwall tember 1, 2026 State Primary Election “Unofficial” results. The results appear below and on the front page of the Town Website: https://www.rehobothma.gov/ - Official results will be posted when election is certified (Saturday, September 5, 2026). Thank you to Assistant Town Clerks Jennifer Hose and Dawn Visinho, Election Workers, Constables, Police Detail and Facilities Management for your help throughout the entire State Primary Election Process. Rehoboth had 1,841 voters participate in the 9-1-2026 State Primary Election, which represents 16% of the 11,317 registered voters. Below please find the 9-1-2026 “Unofficial” Election Results. See full results at www.reportertoday.com.
Eligible Voters: 11,317 | Total Votes Cast: 1,841 | Percentage: 16% Democratic Ballot:
• Senator in Congress: Edward J. Markey • Governor: Maura Healy • Lieutenant Governor: Kimbery Driscoll • Attorney General: Andrea Joy Campbell • Secretary of State: William Francis Galvin • Treasurer: Deborah B. Goldberg • Auditor: Diana DiZoglio • Representative in Congress: Jake Auchincloss • Councilor: Joseph C. Ferreira • District Attorney: Christopher Matthew Markey • Register of Probate: Thomas Cleary Hoye, Jr.
• County Treasurer: Christopher Saunders • County Commissioner: John Thomas Saunders
Republican Ballot:
• Senator in Congress: John Deaton • Governor: Michael Roger Minogue • Lieutenant Governor: Shawn Oliver • Attorney General: Michael C. Walsh • Treasurer: Elizabeth Dionne • Representative in Congress: Thomas Stalcup • Senator in General Court: Kelly A. Dooner • Representative in General Court: Steven S. Howitt • District Attorney: Seth Thomas Aitken
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2026 Dog Tags – Now Past Due
I am pleased to report we have registered 2,114 dogs so far this year, unfortunately, we still have 162 dogs that remain unlicensed. 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, reminder phone calls from our Animal Control Officer (ACO) in June/July, unfortunately final reminder letters with an additional $25 citation fee plus certified mail charges were sent to each dog owner. A current $10 dog license (spayed/neutered) is now $60.98 to renew ($10 + $15 Late Fee + $25 Citation Fee = + $10.98 Certified Mail Fee = $60.98. Please pay your 2026 dog license fee ASAP to avoid any further fees. Reminder, 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. If over 70 and license not paid, you will need to pay the fees as per MGL. 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 and you can always stop by our office to pay. If you no longer have your dog, please call 508-252-1027 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. In addition to the above listed late fees, the State authorizes all Animal Control Officers to fine delinquent dog owners $50/ continued on next page...
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The Letters to the Editor and opinion articles do not reflect the views of the staff of The Rehoboth Reporter. It is not our intent to take sides on any issues, but to present all points of view.
8 The Reporter September 2026
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day until they renew their dog’s yearly licenses. Please do not let that happen to you. Yearly dog licensing ensures all dogs in Rehoboth have updated rabies vaccinations. This process is in place to protect us all.
2026 Street Listings Are Available
If you would like a copy of the 2026 Street Listings, there is a charge of $15.00. Please feel free to stop by town hall and pick up your copy, while supplies last. You may order your copy online @ https://www.invoicecloud.com/rehobothgovsvcs; request a copy by mail, drop box outside of Town Hall-340 Anawan Street or visit us at the Clerk’s Office. If paying by check, please make your check payable to: The Town of Rehoboth ~ thank you.
Thank You & Surgery Update
Surgery is over, and I am getting stronger every day. Thank you all for your kind wishes and get-well cards. Thank you, Jennifer Hose, Dawn Visinho, Charlotte Castro and Election Workers, for stepping up and making sure the Town Clerk’s Office is running smoothly in my absence. You are all truly amazing and I appreciate all you have done, and do, for myself and the Town of Rehoboth!! Finally, I would like to thank Dr. Andrew Green and his staff at University Orthopedics for their surgical expertise and follow-up! Along with a thank you to Anna Grondski, Cailen Hitz and the physical therapy staff/team of Personal Best/Platinum Physical Therapy for their expertise and guidance as well. Thank you all!! In closing, Jenn, Dawn, Charlotte and I wish you all a safe, happy, most enjoyable September. Good luck to those students, teachers and administrators beginning the 2026-2027 school year. We hope all Rehoboth residents stay healthy and safe. Please enjoy the beautiful fall weather that should be coming soon. Thank You ~ Laura
September 2026 The Reporter
Nurse’s Notes September 2026
I’ve been your Public Health Nurse for over 4 years now, and I find I better understand what my Granny used to say: the days go slowly, but the years fly by! It’s hard to believe that the fall is upon us and it’s back to school time already. I suggested last month to be sure all of your child(ren)’s health records and physicals are up to dates and provided to the school. Below is a link to the Ma. DPH site with very helpful hints on keeping your child(ren) safe during the school year. During the early days of September, we still experience very warm days, so be sure your child has plenty of fluids and healthy proteins in their lunches so as to keep them hydrated and to nourish their hard-working brains. If your child has allergies, particularly food allergies, be sure the school staff are aware of the allergy and that your child has an epi-pen in the school nurse’s office. When you meet with school staff and the school nurse, ask what services and medications are allowed in that office and be sure you have consents provided to the nurse to allow medication administration if your child gets sick during the school day. Please be sure you have a plan in place for when your child becomes sick. The best way to protect from getting sick is proper hand hygiene. And the best way to perform hand hygiene is with soap and water, and singing the happy birthday song so you know you’ve washed your hands for the correct amount of time!! I know I say this every year, but please, if your child is sick, particularly with a fever, please keep them home. It’s the most effective way to break the chain of infection, protect vulnerable children and protect your child from becoming re-infected. Now, here’s that link: https://www.mass.gov/ info-details/preparing-for-return-to-school The Healthy Living Program for September’s presentation is on childhood diseases and immunizations.
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10 The Reporter September 2026 There has been a lot of discussion in our leadership, media and on social platforms around the topic of childhood vaccines. As your Public Health Nurse, I can provide access to the science, research and evidence as it relates to vaccines, their safety and their efficacy. September’s recording of ‘Healthy Living’ will discuss childhood vaccines and will air on our local cable channel 98 on September 10th, 2026. You can also access information from the DPH using the link: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/school-immunizations Relating to Infectious Disease, we are continuing to see an increase in the number of Lyme disease cases reports for the town of Rehoboth. The best protection from tick bites is wearing long sleeved shirts, long legged pants with socks pulled up over them and closed shoes when you are out in your garden or in grassy areas. It is recommended that one perform a full body check and shower as soon as possible after being outside. If you find a tick attached to your skin, you may remove it by pulling on it as close to the skin as you can so that the whole tick in removed. If you notice a rash or the famous ‘bull’s eye’ appearance around where you found the tick, contact your PCP as soon as possible for recommendations on treatment. Indeed, you should contact your PCP for any incidence of an imbedded tick for discussion of treatment. We are also watching mosquito activity and new cases of posiFarmstand Open Monday noon-5, tive EEE and West Nile Disease mosquito samples in neighboring Tuesday-Friday 10-5, towns. As of this writing we have 2 positive cases of human West Nile Virus infection. One of the best ways of avoiding mosquito bites Saturday and Sunday 9:30-5 is to avoid being outdoors during their peak feeding hours: around dawn and dusk. Be sure to dump out any water which may have We accept EBT and Farmer’s Market Coupons accumulated in empty containers around your home to decrease the mosquito breeding ground options and use approved mosquito repellant if you need to be outdoors during feeding hours. Below is a link to arbovirus update site at the DPH: https://www.mass.gov/ 508-245-4635 • 33 Agricultural Ave., Rehoboth, MA info-details/massachusetts-arbovirus-update A reminder that the vaccine clinics will be held on September 23rd, 30th and October 7th between 9am-2pm at 27 Francis Farm Rd. in the Arcade building. The QR code is available on the town website under the Public Health Nurse’s Endless Possibilities tab. There you’ll also find information on the vaccines available. If you have trouble 820 TAUNTON AVE(RT. 44) | SEEKONK, MA 02771 registering with the QR code, please call me between 8am-11am, Monday-Thursday and I can help you with the process. Looking to October, during the Healthy Living presentation, we will be chatting with Athena Lavoie from Butlers Hospital about the various dementias and the current treatments available for these brain diseases. Stay tuned for more details in October.
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September 2026 The Reporter
11
September at the Rehoboth Food Pantry – Back to School, and Here All Year
September brings a familiar change to Rehoboth. Summer begins to give way to cooler days, school buses return to our roads, backpacks appear by front doors, and families settle once again into the routines of a new school year. At the Rehoboth Food Pantry, it is also a good time to share an important reminder with our community: the need for a helping hand doesn’t belong to any one season, and neither does the Pantry. We are here all year. The generosity we see around Thanksgiving and the winter holidays is extraordinary, and we are deeply grateful for it. But families can face difficult circumstances at any time of year. Groceries still need to find their way onto tables in September, January, April, and July. Every donation made throughout the year helps ensure that when a neighbor needs us, the Pantry is ready to welcome them.
Helping Rehoboth Students Start the Year Strong
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We begin this month with a very special thank you to the Rehoboth Congregational Church Mission Committee, whose members assembled 15 backpacks filled with school supplies for local children. Many of the backpacks have already found their way to students beginning the new school year, and several remain available. We are tremendously grateful to the Mission Committee for thinking not only about food for our neighbors, but also about helping children begin their school year with the supplies they need. The Mission Committee also donated many bags of food—and once again went the extra mile by dating the donated items before bringing them to us. That simple act is an enormous help to our volunteers as they sort and stock the Pantry, and we truly appreciate the additional care.
A Community That Continues to Give
Our heartfelt thanks also go to the Horton Estates Birthday Group, which once again turned a celebration into an opportunity to help others by donating many bags of food to the Pantry. We are delighted to welcome the generosity of The Reserve at Spring Hill, located off Spring Street, whose community collected and delivered many bags of food donations. And both groups helped our volunteers by making sure their donated items were dated. Thank you! We also extend our continued gratitude to the West Dighton Christian Church for its ongoing monthly donations. Reliable support throughout the year makes an enormous difference in helping us keep our shelves stocked and ready for the neighbors who depend upon the Pantry. As always, the wonderful folks at the Rehoboth Reporter consistently provide us space to share our messages with you. We are deeply grateful! Our community drop-off locations have also been collecting especially large amounts of food recently. To every person who has placed a can, box, bag, or other needed item into one of those collection areas: thank you. Continued on next page...
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The Reporter September 2026
We may never know every name behind those donations, but we see the result of your generosity each week on our shelves.
the year-round support our community provides to neighbors who need a helping hand.
An Easy Way to Help
A Very Special Thanks for our Food Donation Drop-Off Locations: Blanding Public Library, Harvest Tap & Table, Land-Tek Supply, Munroe Feed & Supply. Please remember that the Pantry building is not staffed every day, so we kindly ask that donations not be left outside the building. Using one of our community drop-off locations helps ensure that donations are received safely and can be put to good use. To everyone who continues to help add to our food supplies throughout the year, thank you.
Want to help keep the Pantry stocked but don’t have time to shop or visit one of our drop-off locations? Donating online is quick and easy, and every contribution helps us purchase the food and supplies our neighbors need throughout the year. Online donations also give the Pantry the flexibility to purchase items that may be running low on our shelves when they’re needed most. Simply visit the Rehoboth Food Pantry website (https://rehobothfoodpantryma.org/) and choose the online donation option. Whether it’s $5, $25, or any amount you choose, every gift becomes part of
Pantry Hours: Thursdays, 2:30–4:30 PM
Together, Rehoboth continues to show that neighbors helping neighbors never goes out of season.
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Rehoboth Land Trust invites you to our third annual Puzzle-A-Thon fundraiser! Here’s how it works: SIGN UP - puzzle solo or as a team (up to 3 people per team); registration is free; sign up by 9/13/2026 at rehobothlandtrust.org GET SPONSORS - anyone can be a sponsor, even you! PUZZLE TIME - assemble as much of a 300-piece jigsaw puzzle as you can in 1 hour at the Puzzle-A-Thon; custom-designed puzzles provided by Rehoboth Land Trust Adults and children (5+) are welcome to enter. Perfect for puzzling family fun! Prizes will be given to the participant/team that connects the most pieces, and the participant/team that has the highest number of sponsors. All proceeds from this fundraiser will support the Rehoboth Land Trust, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Founded in 1989, we protect more than 800 acres in the Town of Rehoboth, including public trails, private property, and organic farmland. Registration is required to participate in the Puzzle-A-Thon, but the event is open to the public. Light refreshments will be provided, plus live music by Woody & the Westside Warblers! BIG THANKS to these generous local businesses for supporting this event: Cove Point Covers (grillwraps.com) and Munroe Dairy (cowtruck.com). Learn more, sign up, or donate at rehobothlandtrust.org. Email us your questions at info@rehobothlandtrust.net.
September 2026 The Reporter
It’s A Birthday Blizzard of Giving!
Birthday Presents for our Rehoboth children
The Blizzard of Giving, Inc. is available all year round to help Rehoboth Children. We are here to help make your child’s birthday even more special! Please visit our website www.rehobothblizzardofgiving.org where you can access our request forms and more information. If you would like to include your child(ren) in our Birthday Blizzard list, please provide the following information: • Parent/Guardian’s name, address, email, phone • Child’s name, birthdate, school, grade, clothing size, gender, and general interests. This information can be emailed to rehobothblizzard@gmail.com or mailed to Colleen McBride, 35 Pond Street, Rehoboth, MA 02769. To fulfill your requests, please send all the above information at least 3 weeks in advance of when you would like to receive your child’s gifts. The Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Inc. is committed to serving our community by providing Christmas gifts, holiday support, and special occasion needs to Rehoboth residents who are facing challenging times in their lives. Donations can be made out to “Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Inc.” and mailed to: Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Attn: Cathy Edington, 61 Reservoir Ave., Rehoboth, MA 02769
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Rehoboth Animal Shelter News
Eldegard
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There is a lovely adult cat at the Rehoboth Animal Shelter! She is a 6-year-old fluffy black female by the name of Eldegard. This kitty lost her home when her owner died, and she would love to get out of a cage and back to a home. Eldegard is very affectionate, combo-tested negative, and up-to-date on vaccinations. Come see if she is the cat for you. For more information about Eldegard or other adoptable pets, or to report a lost or found pet, please call the shelter at 508252-5421 ext. 126 and leave a message.
Dighton-Rehoboth Schools Reopen By Joe Siegel
The first day of classes for the students of the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District was Wednesday, September 2. Staff members returned on August 31. “Our kindergarten and preschool students have slightly different start schedules as they transition into the new year,” said Superintendent Bill Runey. “We do have some new faces joining the DR team this year, including new educators across our schools as well as some changes within our leadership team,” Runey continued. “At the high school, we have a new Assistant Principal, along with staff additions connected to the continued growth of our Career and Technical Education programming.” continued on next page...
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The Reporter September 2026
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“We are beginning the student phase of our Apple initiative with MacBooks at DRRHS and continuing to expand the pathways available to students through Early College, our developing Medical Assisting pathway, and our new Culinary Arts and Criminal Justice/ Public Safety CTE programs following the District’s $1.5 million state expansion grant.” Runey is excited about another major change. “Families will also see our new districtwide Green and Gold Falcon identity taking shape across all five schools. For the first time, our students from preschool through graduation will share one unified identity as Falcons. It is about much more than logos and colors; it is about building connection, pride, and a stronger sense that regardless of which school our students attend, we are all part of DR and we are all Falcons now.” Runey is optimistic about the new school year. “In addition to expanding opportunities for students, we have seen continued improvement in student outcomes, and our focus this year is on building upon that progress while maintaining the positive culture and sense of pride that has developed across the District. Ultimately, we want our students to have more opportunities, stronger outcomes, and more reasons to be excited about being part of Dighton-Rehoboth. We’re looking forward to welcoming everyone back and continuing that work in 2026-27.”
Rehoboth Gets Donation from Local Developer By Joe Siegel
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The town has received a $160,000 donation from a local developer after the Planning Board agreed to waive certain requirements. The funds will be put toward road maintenance. Selectman Lenny Mills made the announcement at Monday’s Board of Selectmen meeting. “You can’t force (a developer) to do it, but we don’t have to waive things either,” Mills explained. “The developer was very understanding that the town is pressed for tax dollars. We’re trying to be fiscally responsible. We’re looking for creative ways to supplement the Rehoboth taxpayer.” Selectmen Chair Skip Vadnais praised the decision. “I think that was a very good move on the Planning Board’s part, and that’s saving taxpayers close to $200,000,” Vadnais said. “This Board of Selectmen is focused on finance, innovative ways of financing this community and moving ahead. There’s a lot happening in this town that will be coming to fruition very shortly.” Mills said the developer is also donating a five acre piece of land with road access for public use. “It was a good team effort,” Mills added. “We’re working really hard for our fellow residents and try to keep these taxes under control for as long as we can. We’re getting some results more and more.” “The Planning Board has the authority to waive a particular requirement in exchange for the developer to contribute to a designated fund,” Town Administrator Sue Pimental said Tuesday. “They can only ask the developer if he would be willing to contribute to a designated fund if the Planning Board waives a certain item when reviewing the plan. Anything that the planning board at time of service: teeth, waives, will go into a fund that can only be buffing, or glands. used to maintain roads, (whether its’) equipment or product. The developer is typically building a road and those funds can be used to maintain/repair any road in town in addition to the Chapter 90 funds we receive from the @chibischoice • www.Chibischoice.com state,” Pimental added.
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September 2026 The Reporter
Rehoboth to Pay for PFAS Remediation By Joe Siegel
The Town of Rehoboth has entered into an agreement with Wilcox and Barton to perform PFAS remediation. Wilcox and Barton recommended that the Town should establish a budget of approximately $300,200 for fiscal year 2027. The firm will perform “ongoing environmental counseling and Licensed Site Professional services in response to the identification of elevated concentrations of per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in drinking water supply wells in the vicinity of the Fire Department property on Anawan St (the site),” according to a June 16 letter to Sue Pimental, who was the Interim Director of Finance and Compliance. Pimental is now the Town Administrator. Wilcox and Barton initiated LSP services and Immediate Response Action (IRA) activities in March 2022, following receipt of the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) Notice of Responsibility (NOR), dated February 14, 2022. Tasks include ongoing source area investigation, private well sampling, installation and maintenance of point-of-entry treatment (POET) and point of use (POUT) systems, drum disposal, data review, coordination with offsite property owners, and regulatory reporting. In 2022, harmful chemicals were discovered in the wells which supply water to the Town Hall and the Fire Station on Anawan Street. The water in the Town Hall and Fire Station wells contained per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). PFAS are a category of thousands of man-made chemicals mainly used in consumer and industrial products, including nonstick cookware, mascara, food packaging, water and stain resistant materials and fire-fighting apparatus and foam. These chemicals Continued on next page...
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The Reporter September 2026
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have been referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their strong chemical bonds that take a long time to dissipate. These chemicals can circulate in the human body and cause adverse health effects. These effects include fertility issues, heightened cholesterol, changes in immune systems, increased risk of some cancers, liver damage, developmental changes for children and fetuses, and increased risk of thyroid disease and asthma. Massachusetts mandates that PFAS drinking water levels not exceed 20 parts per trillion for a combination of all six regulated PFAS chemicals. This combination can include any percentage of these chemicals as long as the total sum is less than 20 parts per trillion.
Selectmen Put Limits on Yard Sales By Joe Siegel
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The Rehoboth Board of Selectmen support residents’ right to hold yard sales, as long as there are restrictions. No outside vendors will be allowed and all signs promoting the sales have to be removed after 24 hours. “I don’t think our neighbors in this town will appreciate having vendors in their neighborhood,” Selectman Lenny Mills said Monday. “There are all sorts of challenges that could happen depending on how big this gets. I have no problem with a person holding a yard sale. I would let them know on record that they can’t have the outside vendors there.” Selectman Robert Johnson cited parking as another potential problem. “You can’t park on both sides of the road and expect emergency vehicles to get through,” Johnson said. A vendor fair on Wheaton Ave in 2025 caused massive traffic headaches, Johnson noted. The Board also approved three year contracts for four town employees, including Lisa Cabral, the Tax Collector and Treasurer, Town Planner Dan Roach, Public Health Nurse Geraldine Hamel, and Building Commissioner William McDonough.
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September 2026 The Reporter
Rehoboth Council on Aging Breakfast
Mon / Wed / Fri From 8:30-10
Lunch
Mon / Wed @ Noon. Come join us
Kick Back & Relax Cookout Wed Sept 9th @ Noon Tickets $10.00
YMCA Memberships
Monday Sept 21st @ 11:00
Michelle from the Newman YMCA To explain YMCA membership with Health Plans
Estate Planning and Asset Protection Presentation By Linda Ferreira Edward Jones Financial Advisor
Wed Sept 16th
Halloween Lunch
Wed Oct 28th@ Noon Tickets $10.00
Piano Serenade
Fridays 9:30 - 11:00
Russell Raiche will be playing the piano for us
Book Club
Will be taking a break for the Summer. Join us in Sept when we resume.
Join Our Walking Club Mon-Wed-Friday 9:30AM
NEW Start time 10:00. Please join our email list for inclement weather closings
Join our Email List
Updates during the month COAmail@rehobothma.gov Please also find us at https://www.rehobothma.gov/council-aging-0
Craft Supplies Needed
We have Paper Crafting Class and a Jewelry/ Resin Making. We can always use extra supplies. Scrapbooking, Cricut Supplies, die cuts, embossing folders. Jewelry making and resin supplies. We are in need of cotton, flannel, and fleece fabric for sewing projects. We are accepting yarn donations for hats & blankets. Your donations are greatly appreciated
Meals on Wheels:
Please contact Bristol Elders, Inc. at (508) 675-2101 for information on the Meals on Wheels program.
ACTIVITIES Mondays
8:30-10 BREAKFAST 9:00 Barre Class $3.00 Helps with balance, strength, and posture 9:30 Walking Club 10:00 Cornhole Toss 10:00 Functional Fitness $3.00 Timed intervals for fitness and rest focus on strength, balance, cardio, and a relaxing stretch at the end. Use of various props. All fitness levels welcome 10:30 Bocce Noon Gert’s Café ~ Ltd seating ~ $5.00 1:00 Line Dancing $3.00
Tuesdays
9:00 Dancer-cise $3.00 10:00 Jewelry Making Class $5.00 We will be doing Glass etching, wool felting, and more. These classes will be priced accordingly 10:00 Seated Yoga Fusion $3.00 Gentle Yoga with blend of movement and breathwork 10:00 Sewing & Quilting 11:00 Functional Fitness $3.00 StrengthBalance-Cardio-Stretch with a mix of props and great music 1:00 Hi-Lo Jack 1:00- 3:00 Oil Painting Class (NEW) any skill level $ 5.00
Weds
8:30 - 10:00 Breakfast 9:30 Walking Club 10:00-Noon Beginner’s Mahjong
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Francis Hall 27 Francis Farm Road, Rehoboth Phone 508-252-3372 Fax 508-252-4716 Monday - Thursday 8am-4pm, Fridays 8am-Noon 10:00 Fiber Arts (Knitting & Crochet get together. Jane Williams) 10:30 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 Noon Soup to Go 1:00-3:00 Paper Crafting Class: Card Making, Stamping, Cricut Machine . $5.00 1:00-3:00 Cribbage
Friday
8:30 - 10:00 Breakfast Buffet 9:30 Walking Club 10:30 Bocce 10:30 Cornhole Toss 9:30 -11:00 piano Serenade by Russell Raiche
As always, all pricing is a suggested donation. Please sign up for Lunch ahead of time. This helps Chef Chico plan meals
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The Reporter September 2026
Rehoboth Public Health Nurse
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Geraldine Hamel, RN MSN: Monday through Thursday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. 508-252-5947 Stephanie Reis, RN BSN: 508-252-6052 ext. 3128 Offering multiple medical services for our Rehoboth citizens: Home Visits, Vaccinations. Support groups: Bereavement, Caregiver Assistance, Dementia Support and more • Wellness Clinic • Podiatry Clinic: Last Thursday of the month • Blood Pressures & Glucose Screenings Please contact Geri Hamel for more information on these services.
Rehoboth Council on Aging
A Municipal Department of the Town
Mission: The Rehoboth Senior Center’s mission is to develop and provide programs, opportunities, and resources to enrich the social, emotional, physical, mental, and economic well-being of Rehoboth’s elder citizens. The Rehoboth Senior Center shall serve as a community focal point and an inclusive support system where Rehoboth’s elder citizens: • Can engage in leisure, wellness, educational, and social programs that promote an enhanced quality of life and social-emotional health and well-being • Can enjoy onsite meals prepared in the senior center kitchen and be served in the building’s dining area • Can connect to their peers and community • Can foster inter-generational relationships and shared activities • Can obtain information on and access to governmental supports and programs that connect people to transportation, housing, nutritional, and economic assistance • Can gain access to health information and resources to support independence and ensure healthy aging in our community • Can seek out opportunities for lifetime learning and volunteering and civic engagement The Rehoboth Senior Center’s vision is to grow and expand our offerings while preserving our commitment to the dignity and worth of every person in our community. The Rehoboth Council on Aging shall: a. Provide, coordinate and link available resources to help meet the needs of the Town of Rehoboth’s elders. b. Carry out programs and services that range from information on community education, referrals, outreach, transportation, Meals on Wheels, health screenings, inter-generational activities, crafting programs and other programs beneficial to our seniors.
Rehoboth Senior Citizens Club News
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It’s coming! The Annual Fall Bazaar! October 17, 2026 at Francis Hall, 27 Francis Farm Rd, Rehoboth, MA, 9 AM to 3 PM. Our September meeting will be on September 17th in the Arcade Bldg. at noon. Lots of business to discuss and upcoming events to plan and finalize: Public Safety Day, Annual Fall Bazaar, Annual Senior Trunk or Treat, Annual Christmas Luncheon, just to name a few. At this meeting we will have lunch and a Make-Your-Own-Sundae for dessert. So, bring your appetite and great ideas with you to share.!!! See you on the 17th…… Donna Howard, President
September 2026 The Reporter
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The Seekonk Scene From the Clerk’s Office We hope you all had an enjoyable summer. It certainly went by quickly. We want to wish all the students, teachers, and administrators a healthy, safe, and wonderful 2026-2027 school year.
Plan Ahead Upcoming Events
September 11th Remembrance Ceremony - Please join the Town of Seekonk Kristen L’Heureux and the Seekonk Schools in commemorating the 25th anniversary of the terrible loss our nation suffered as the result of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. Seekonk will mourn those who lost their lives that day and in subsequent efforts to restore security to this country, as well as those who lost their lives in the continuous battle against terrorism. We pay tribute to our courageous public safety employees and veterans, and to Seekonk residents Shandra Ferreira who participated in the long and difficult task to clean-up at the World Trade Center site.
We must never forget
Date/Time: September 11, 2026 @ 6:00 PM (rain or shine) Location: Seekonk Public Safety Complex, 500 Taunton Ave, Seekonk, MA. For more information, please contact Elaijah St. Germain at 508-336-8123 ext. 51028.
Unofficial Results - September 1, 2026 State Primary Election
Thank you to all the voters who either mailed in their ballots, voted during early voting, or came in-person on election day. We would also like to thank our dedicated election workers. We would not be able to Please note, these are the UNOFFICIAL RESULTS. The official results will be available on the Town’s website as soon as the election has been certified.
Eligible Voters: 12,938 Total Votes Cast: 1,863 Percentage: 14.40%
PRECINCT 1 2 3 4 Votes Cast 464 557 421 421 Democratic Ballots: 1260 / Republican Ballots: 603
Democratic Ballot:
• Senator in Congress: Edward J. Markey • Governor: Maura Healy • Lieutenant Governor: Kimbery Driscoll • Attorney General: Andrea Joy Campbell • Secretary of State: William Francis Galvin • Treasurer: Deborah B. Goldberg • Auditor: Diana DiZoglio • Representative in Congress: Jake Auchincloss • Councilor: Joseph C. Ferreira • District Attorney: Christopher Matthew Markey • Register of Probate: Thomas Cleary Hoye, Jr. • County Treasurer: Christopher Saunders • County Commissioner: John Thomas Saunders
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The Reporter September 2026
Tracey Auclair HAS MOVED
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Republican Ballot:
• Senator in Congress: John Deaton • Governor: Michael Roger Minogue • Lieutenant Governor: Shawn Oliver • Attorney General: Michael C. Walsh • Treasurer: Elizabeth Dionne • Representative in Congress: Thomas Stalcup • Senator in General Court: Kelly A. Dooner • Representative in General Court: Steven S. Howitt • District Attorney: Seth Thomas Aitken
Upcoming Election News - State Election November 3, 2026.
Polling hours are 7:00 am – 8:00 pm. All four precincts will vote at Seekonk High School, 261 Arcade Avenue in the gymnasium. The last day to apply for a mail-in ballot is October 27, 2026 at 5:00PM. Early voting will take place at Seekonk Town Hall, 100 Peck Street in the Select Board Meeting Room from October 17th through October 29th.
Marking Your Ballot
Whether you are choosing to vote by mail or in-person, please FILL IN the oval completely. Do NOT mark an X or only lightly fill in the circle. If you are voting by mail-in ballot, please be sure you print and sign your name on the manilla envelope before returning it to our office. If it is not signed, we are not allowed to accept it.
Register or Update Your Voter Information
You can register to vote or update your voter registration online by visiting the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth’s Online Voter Registration system at https://www.sec.state.ma.us/OVR/. Their online registration system allows you to:
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Update your address and/or party affiliation. It is your responsibility to notify us (in writing) if you change your address.
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Upcoming Fall Town Meeting November 9, 2026 @ 6:00pm
Seekonk High School Auditorium. Check-in begins at 5:00PM. More information will be provided in the Seekonk Reporter October article.
Reminders From The Town Clerk’s Office
Dog License Reminder - In accordance with Massachusetts Laws, Chapter 140 Section 137, all dogs 6 months or older must be licensed annually and owners must provide proof of a current rabies vaccination. Dog licenses expired on March 31st. Effective June 1, a $25 late fee has been added to all license renewals. Failure to comply may result in a by-law citation. All dog license applications and renewals require online registration. While payments may be made in person or by mail, the registration process must be completed online before the license can be processed. Town Census Reminder for Non-Respondents - Pursuant to Massachusetts General Law, any registered voter who has not responded to the Annual Town Census/Street List by the first Monday in June will have their voter status changed to inactive. If you receive a confirmation postcard, please complete, sign, and return it to us as soon as possible so we can update your census information. Postage is prepaid.
September 2026 The Reporter If you believe confirmation cards are unnecessary expense, please note that the Town is required by law to mail them to eligible voters. Please be aware that if you are listed as an inactive voter, you will be required to provide proof of residency and sign an affidavit of continuous residency before being permitted to vote in an election. We encourage you to check your voter status through the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth’s Online Voter Registration System at https://www.sec.state.ma.us/OVR/. If you receive a confirmation postcard in error, please contact the Town Clerk’s Office by phone or email at townclerk@seekonkma.gov. Your original census form and our confirmation notice may have crossed in the mail.
Reminders From The Tax Collector’s Office
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If you have any questions concerning any of the following, please call the tax collector’s office directly at 508-336-2930. Did you know the Registry of Motor Vehicles issues motor vehicle excise tax bills throughout the year? The majority are issued in February and due in March (tax commitment #1-2026). If you have not received your bill by March 1st please contact the Tax Collector’s Office at 508-336-2930. If you no longer have the vehicle, please see the reverse side of the excise tax bill for instructions and provide the information to the Tax Assessor’s Office. • Motor Vehicle Excise Tax commitment #7 (2025) is with the Deputy Collector • Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Commitment #8 (2026) is with the Deputy Collector • Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Commitment #1 (2026) is with the Deputy Collector • Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Commitment #2 (2026) is with the Deputy Collector • Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Commitment #3 (2026) was issued June 2nd and due July 2nd • Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Commitment $4 (2026) was due August 27th and is now on demand due September 15th FY 27 Disposal Bills will be mailed on September 15, 2026 and due October 15, 2026 ($333.10 per unit).
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• Fiscal Year 2027 Preliminary Taxes were mailed the first week WWW.SOARESPUMPING.COM of July, 2026 • The first quarter payment was due by August 3rd and the second quarter is due November 2nd • Demand notices for Fiscal Year 2026 unpaid Real Estate Taxes and Personal Property Taxes were due June 11th • Further collection letters have been mailed on any unpaid Fiscal Year 2026 Real Estate Taxes If you want to know how much you paid in real estate taxes last year, the information can be found on the Collector’s webpage on the Town’s website under “How Much Did I Pay in Real Estate Taxes Last Year.” Please note the Tax Collector’s office does not process the Water Department’s bills and cannot accept payments for the Helping You Keep Your Home Looking Its Best Water District. Please mail or drop off your Need a small repair or looking to freshen things up? I’m a local, reliable contractor payment to Seekonk Water District, 50 Water here to help with the projects that keep your home in great shape. Lane, Seekonk, MA 02771 CARPENTRY & PAINTING Power Washing We hope you have a wonderful month. • Door Frame Rot Repair • Deck Repairs & Touch-Ups • Decks & Patios As always, please contact us (508) 336-2920 • Front Entry Refreshes • Trim Repair & Replacement • Walkways & Driveways or by email at townclerk@seekonk-ma.gov if • Small Painting Projects • General Home Maintenance • Sheds & Outdoor Areas you have any questions. Thank you for taking the time to read the Town Clerk’s Office Contact me for a free consultation! 774-254-7052 | mhhomerepair2020@gmail.com monthly update. Free Estimates / Fully Insured
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The Reporter September 2026
*Sustainable Seekonk*
By Christine Zadykovich, Recycling Coordinator @ Seekonk DPW 508-336-7407
of charge. Solar panels & EMPTY propane tanks/fire extinguishers (remove all plastic parts) w/blue $10 bulky stickers as well. Seekonk Transfer Station/TARF (351 Fall River Ave) open year-round Mon-Thu 7am-3pm and Fri 6:15-9:45am (Sat hours vary seasonally-check website or call) for drop off of yard waste (leaves, grass, twigs). Bulky Waste Pass Days continue 9/12, 10/10, 11/14, 3/13, 4/10, 5/8. Passes are $30 and must be purchased at the DPW offices. Please note that Blue Bag trash is not accepted - and this is not an alternative to getting a dumpster for a construction project. 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 Over 30 Years Experience in the Local Community dump food waste directly into the bins or use certified compostable bags-no plastic bags please! EST. 1994 Seekonk DPW Offices (871 Taunton Ave) has textile collection bins & a Terracycle collection shed in the parking lot, and small rechargeable batteries/cell phone collection bin and eye glasses collection inside the lobby. String lights & extension cords are also accepted anytime. Bulky Waste Pickup stickers available for the 2nd & 4th Weds of each month for most furniture and household items, 3rd Tues for metal/electronics, & 3rd Weds for mattresses/boxsprings. There is also a mail in form available online if you’re unable to come into the office during office hours. www.Seekonk-MA.gov Don’t Trash It! Bulky Waste Pickup & Drop off services are intended for items that are TRASH - i.e. broken or no longer usable. Consider donating items still usablepost a free CURB ALERT on social media, or search donation near me for pickup if you can’t drop off at any local resource like Savers, Goodwill, 4 Echoes or Angel’s Care Closet. If items are broken/no longer usable, pick up a special recycling packet at DPW or town website for FREE recycling resourcesespecially for electronics which contain valuable materials that can be reused/recycled when handled properly. Recycling Tip of The Month: Got milk cartons, soup cartons, juice cartons? Those multi-layer cartons are unfortunately NOT recyclable in curbside recycling, and must go in the trash. There is only one recycling facility that is able to process them-out in We are licensed and insured for your protection. Springfield MA-which is why you might know someone who CAN recycle them.
The Seekonk Recycling Committee would like to remind residents of all the great recycling and sustainability programs and resources we have available in town: Interested in Recycling or Sustainability? We’re looking for Committee Members! There are two open seats on the Recycling Committee, if interested please submit a talent bank form on www. Seekonk-MA.gov Second Saturdays @ Special Recycling Shed! The Special Recycling Shed at TARF is open ONLY on the 2nd Saturday of each month 8AM-12PM, and accepts anti-freeze, all light bulbs, all batteries, all mercury items, radioactive IONIZATION smoke detectors, ink/toner cartridges and string lights & extension cords - free
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SEEKONK DENTAL September 2026 The Reporter
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Doorways is Celebrating 25 Years of Serving the Seekonk Community
DR. FRANK CASARELLA & DR. LURI LEE
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Doorways volunteer Frank Mooney collects donations from food drop-off points
This November, Doorways will celebrate twenty-five years of providing food support for those of our neighbors facing hard times. This has been made possible by hundreds of local volunteers who donate their time, and by hundreds of local donors who fund our efforts. Food drives by the Scouts, the Letter Carriers, and local schools have provided thousands of pounds of food over the years. Local businesses have set up drop-off points to allow people to donate food conveniently. It has been a collaborative effort by the whole community to meet an essential need. In November, Doorways will mark its silver anniversary with a dinner celebration at Ledgemont Country Club, with live music provided by Steve Smith and the Nakeds. Donors and volunteers alike will gather to raise a glass to the good work we have done and prepare for the good work to come. “It’s a Celebration” say event organizers, “to gather with our neighbors and toast the many individuals, businesses and community members that have made the last 25 years possible”. Ticket price of $90 covers the price of the event. Tables of 10 are available as well. For more information and to purchase tickets go to Doorwaysfoodpantry.org or visit Doorways Food Pantry Facebook page
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The Reporter September 2026
Osamequin Farm and Country Carpenters Celebrate the Rebuilding of Hickory Grove
SEEKONK, MA — Osamequin Farm and Country Carpenters invite the community to a Grand Opening Celebration on Saturday, September 12, from 4 - 6pm, marking the completion of the Hickory Grove rebuild following the fire that struck Osamequin Farm in April. In less than five months, the site has been transformed into a new public-facing farm stand and wash-and-pack pavilion designed to better serve Osamequin Farm’s visitors, staff, and Resident Farmers. The new structures were built in partnership with Country Carpenters, whose traditional post-and-beam construction helped shape a space that feels both new and deeply at home in the farm landscape. The September 12 celebration will be a chance to see the rebuilt Hickory Grove firsthand and celebrate the extraordinary turnaround from the April fire to today. Visitors will be able to explore the new farm stand, meet the Country Carpenters team behind the design, connect with some of the farmers who share the land at Osamequin Farm, and tour the new wash-and-pack pavilion to learn how the space will support small-scale agricultural production on the farm. The event will also include opportunities for community members to share ideas about the farm and how these new spaces can best serve the people who use them. “We could not have made this kind of turnaround without the people who rallied around Osamequin after the fire,” said Sarah Newkirk, Executive Director of Osamequin Farm. “From the friends of the farm who donated so generously to the dozens of skilled volunteers who shared their time and expertise, we have been humbled by the way our community showed up for us. We’re so grateful to welcome everyone back and show them what they helped make possible!”
Grand Opening Celebration
Saturday, September 12, 2026 4 - 6pm Osamequin Farm
Corner of Walnut St and Prospect St, Seekonk, Massachusetts Live music • Delicious Food • Farm stand open house • Washand-pack pavilion tours • Meet the farmers • Meet the Country Carpenters team • Share your ideas for the future The event is free and open to all - RSVPs requested at www.osamequinfarm.org/ rebuild About Osamequin Farm
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Osamequin Farm is a nonprofit working farm and community space in Seekonk, Massachusetts. Founded in 2018, our mission is to share the historic land of Osamequin Farm by hosting a cooperative of small-scale farmers, public gatherings, and educational opportunities for our community. Our work is rooted in cooperation, collaboration, and stewardship. We share farmland and infrastructure with Resident Farmers, grow organic fruits, vegetables, flowers, and herbs, and welcome people onto the land through workshops, youth programs, Pick Your Own, guided hikes, and community events. Across all of this work, we aim to care for the land responsibly while creating meaningful opportunities for people to grow, learn, and connect. About Country Carpenters
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its third generation, the company draws inspiration from historic New England architecture and specializes in handcrafted post-and-beam barns, outbuildings, and homes. For more than 50 years, Country Carpenters has worked to carry the character and craftsmanship of traditional New England buildings into structures designed for contemporary use.
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Whole Foods Supports Local Food Pantries
The new Whole Foods store in Seekonk is large and lustrous, and has already made a significant contribution to our community. In honor of their Grand Opening, they made significant donations to several local area food pantries, including both the Seekonk and Rehoboth food pantries. The Doorways food pantry in Seekonk received a donation of $10,000.00, which will fund our food purchases for several weeks. Whole Food’s community giving programs help address existing and emerging needs in communities, whether they’re down the street or across the globe. We thank them for their generous donation to help our neighbors in need.
Suzie Miller and Gerry McCabe of Doorways attended the Grand Opening of Whole Foods
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The Reporter September 2026
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Seaconke: History: First Frontier Part V Beginning of the End By Michael Markley
Ousamequin was immersed in his culture, educated, and a warrior of his people. He was trained from birth to be a leader, to articulate, and understand the needs of his people. Upon his father’s death he would step into the shoes of his father and his fathers before him. In 1607 his father died, and his shoes fit. Ousamequin succeeded his father as chief of Pokanoket tribe and he became the Massasoit, supreme leader, of all the Wampanoag people. The Wampanoag tribe stretched across southeastern New England and into the Islands of the Atlantic. Ousamequin, was a winner in battle and a popular leader of his people. He was not a political man but dealt with the politics of leadership and in the holding together the union of the Wampanoag Confederation of tribes. He inherited a population of nearly 30,000 people in 67 communities. He had 3,000 warriors. A country that lived in the abundance of successful crop production, financial well worth, and youthful growth. Ousamequin was 27 years old married with 3 children. Seaconke was the hub of transportation moving agricultural products, services, and other goods up the ten mile river, deep into Pokanoket up and down the Seaconke River to the bay and up the Moshassuck supplying the tribes in northeastern R.I. The Seaconke Plain was populated with villages that served purposes; growing crops and house warriors to defend the frontier.
Seaconke 1653 including rivers, Wampanoag villages, and English settlement. Map by Dr. John G. Erhardt
Sauk Suit the childhood friend and brother in-law served as Chief of the Seaconke Tribe and all the villages on the Seaconke Plain. He served as a Wampanoag council member and War chief. Wampanoag culture suffered under 100 years of trade with Europeans. Tribal members wanted cloth shirts and Jackets. Homemakers wanted metal pans and glass containers. Warriors wanted fire sticks for weapons. English beer was very popular. With the advent of European finished products Wampanoag crafts suffered and many skills were lost. Because of trade the average Wampanoag knew far more of European culture than Europe knew of Wampanoag culture. Explorer Adrian Block on a summers eve in 1614 looked across Narragansett bay from west to east. Upon seeing multiple village fires burning on the eastern shore, he asked his native guides they answered the Wampanoo. Wampanoo meaning the eastern tribes. Block then put Wampanoo on his map.
September 2026 The Reporter
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In little time Blocks map was used by many other European explorers to seek out and find the Wampanoo. 447 Taunton Avenue Ousamequin, a diplomat and a warrior soon fought his greatest battle. A battle he could Seekonk, MA 02771 not win. A death by unseen enemy soon felled the Wampanoag, including the villages of T 508.336.8120 the Seaconke plain, without firing a shot. Wampanoag fell dead in the street faster than F 508.336.3350 could be buried. Whole villages were abandoned. Between 1617-1618 it is estimated 90% navegalaw@aol.com of the Wampanoag population died. This sickness attacked other tribes such as Massachusetts, Pawtucket, and the Mic Serving the legal needs of the Mac. The Tarratine, once vicious raider of the Wampanoag ceased to exist. This sudden community since 1979 great loss created an imbalance of power. The great Wampanoag nation had fallen, leaving the meek to inherit the Earth. Between the 17th and 20th century the Sun never set on the British empire. That empire and other European explorers brought with them the first weapon of mass destruction, disease. European diseases, such as smallpox, plague, influenza etc.… diseases Europeans had long built a tolerance too, found new ground to breed. Great death would befall native nations wherever Europeans went. The native nation in South America, Africa, Asia, Australia were devasCall for Spring Specials tated by disease that brought to them their death and destruction. Rubberized Crack Filling Ousamequin shook and wept. He now was Massasoit, the Supreme Leader of a dying nation. He could do nothing for his people. Seal Coating • Chip Sealing All his oration, nor any of his weapons could defeat an enemy he Asphalt Patching could not see. He had less than 100 warriors. The Seaconke Plain Residential & Commercial no longer produced crops. The Seaconke village was now empty; Pokanoket was desolate and sparsely populated. He now feared that his enemies would bring about the downfall of Wampanoo. Fight the Cost of New Pavement... He felt the loss of life would soon mean the loss of territory, We Seal your Old Pavement the loss of power and influence. The loss of culture and history. He sought out new agreements with the tribes that surrounded the we use... Wampanoag Confederation. With the Narragansett there would be no negotiation. The Narragansett suffered less by the sudden death, they stood up an army of 800+ warriors and were pushing into the borders of Wampanoag territory. Massasoit sought out the leadership of the Narraganset in the summer of 1619. With 10 warriors by his side, he knelt and gave tribute to the Chief of the Narragansett. Massasoit felt the deep responsibility of leadership. He sought to save lives, to save the culture and history of his people, to save the Wampanoag.
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The Reporter September 2026
Seekonk Schools Opened on August 26th By Joe Siegel
The 2026-2027 Seekonk school year began on August 26th for Grades 1 through 12. The first day of kindergarten was September 3. Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell has announced new staff additions, including Anthony Simmons as the new Director of Guidance and counselor for all ninth grade students at Seekonk High School. “Lauren Facenda (Martin Elementary) and Derek Texeira (Hurley Middle School) are joining the district as Assistant Principals. Angelena Pires will return to her athletic trainer work as the Assistant Coordinator of Athletics & Aquatics.” A new gymnasium floor at the high school is nearing completion. “The painting is complete, and we’re in the process of installing the rubber floor edging that will both provide safety for athletes and protect the wood area from environmental damage,” Kidwell explained. “We are in progress on updating door locks to classrooms and have completed the appointment of our architects of record. Those appointments will allow us to move forward with the HVAC updates to the high school pool.”
The school year also brings some curriculum changes. “The most exciting new courses at Seekonk High School include launching our first of new Innovation Career Pathways in Clean Energy and Business & Finance,” Kidwell noted. “Some courses in these pathways and some additional courses in Law and mathematics will be offered as dual enrollment courses with Roger Williams University, where students can take the class with an SHS teacher and earn Roger Williams University credit at a discounted rate. We also have dual enrollment offerings with Rhode Island College.” The school schedules remain unchanged. “There are no parking or activity fees,” Kidwell added. “Transportation fees have increased slightly (from $150 to $180 for elementary students who live closest to the school buildings and all students in grades 7-12). This is our first year of reinstituting a flat, year long athletic fee of $200 per athlete for middle school and high school interscholastic sports. One fee covers as many seasons as the student chooses to play (fall, winter, and spring).”
Select Board Approves Study for Martin School Lot By Joe Siegel
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The Seekonk Select Board authorized funding for an engineering study of the Martin Elementary School parking lot at their August 5 meeting. The cost of the study is $50,000. At last May’s Town Meeting, the school department asked for $975,000 to replace the asphalt, curbing, and drainage of the parking lot at Martin School. The article was defeated, even after a motion was made to request $447,000 so the project could be done in phases. Chair Gary Sagar voted in favor of the article, although he told Town Administrator Shawn Cadime he had no recollection of supporting it at the June 16 meeting with the School Department. “We talked about what a disaster that warrant article was and the whole process,” Sagar said. “If we sign this, we’re liable for it.” “I did have a conversation with (Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell),” Cadime replied. “You’re the one that brought up the fact that you wanted us to use GPI. You even asked me where the money was going to come from. I said we could potentially use (fiscal year 2026) encumbrances. You told me to move forward with that.” “I think a lot of people took offense (to the warrant article),” member Michael Healy said. “It’s a project that needs to move forward and we need to get a better number, rather than a guess of $900,000.” “The smartest thing you could do is hire an engineer and have them do an evaluation,” Sagar told members of the School Committee at the July 26 Quad Board meeting. “That’s where you are going to get your best pricing to repair it.”
Seekonk Schools Await MSBA Funding By Joe Siegel
The Seekonk School District submitted an application for financial support to the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) last April. The intention was to allow the district to consider a co-located middle school/high school campus. Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell said the district will hear back from the MSBA in December if funding can be available for this project. “The highest priority is focusing on a renovation, addition, or new construction project for the middle grades, with our current invitation
September 2026 The Reporter to the MSBA pipeline for Hurley Middle School,” Kidwell noted. “If a project is going to include a new high school, it would also take into account the middle grades’ educational and facility needs, as well as ensuring more space for our growing elementary population.” Last April, the Select Board approved sending a Statement of Interest to the MSBA for Seekonk High School. The priorities in the document include expanded classroom space to handle overcrowding due to increased student enrollment, and renovations or modernizations of school facilities including roofs, windows, heating, and ventilation systems, which will decrease energy costs. “The Eligibility Period is a critical step in the MSBA’s process of evaluating potential work on the Dr. Kevin M. Hurley Middle School,” MSBA Executive Director Mary Pichetti said last December. “We look forward to our continued partnership with the district as it enters the Eligibility Period.” The MSBA partners with Massachusetts communities to support the design and construction of educationally appropriate, flexible, sustainable, and cost-effective public-school facilities. Since its 2004 inception, the Authority has approved 1,138 projects and has made over $18.4 billion in reimbursements for school construction projects across the Commonwealth.
Medeiros Farm Project Faces Questions Over Price, Design Vote By Joe Siegel
Questions surrounding the $2 million purchase of the 40-acre Medeiros Farm have added to continuing controversy over the town’s plans for the property, while Select Board members Elizabeth Elmasian and Robert Archambault have faced criticism for opposing a $549,450 design contract. At the Select Board’s August 19 meeting, Elmasian questioned the purchase price, citing an October 19, 2021 email from Community Preservation Committee Chairman John Alves. “We discussed a $2,000,000 potential price with Paul and Connie (Medeiros) plus the fact that it could be lower depending on final appraisal,” Alves wrote, noting that Paul Medeiros “indicated we’re about $1,500,000 off the mark.” “In this, (Alves) is asking if the town can pay $1.5 million more for the property,” Elmasian said. Alves declined to comment. The issue arose as Elmasian responded to resident Anne Miller, who has criticized the board’s handling of the project. At the August 5 meeting, Miller said, “You are wasting my money by shutting down the design study appropriated by town meeting.” Town Meeting voters authorized $150,000 from the Community Preservation Fund in May 2023 to hire a consultant to develop a master plan for Medeiros Farm. A seven-member committee was subsequently appointed to oversee the project. On June 24, the Select Board voted 3-2 to reject a $549,450 designer-services contract with CHA Consulting. Christopher Zorra and Michael Healy voted in favor, while Chair Gary Sagar, Elmasian and Archambault voted against it. The board instead voted to proceed with a traffic study before moving forward with the contract. Elmasian defended the decision, citing concerns about the contract and public safety. “Did you see the contract that we were supposed to sign?” she asked Miller. “It had no numbers in it. We didn’t get any supporting documents. That’s the reason why that contract wasn’t signed.” “I’ve been reading contracts for 28 years,” Elmasian added. “And no place in any of those documents did it say a traffic study was to be conducted. And that contract with CHA, I think a 10 year old could’ve done a better job with it. We did not put a stop to this project. Since when is public safety put on the back burner?”
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Archambault has also questioned aspects of the project’s master plan. “The cost section was left out to begin with,” he wrote to the Reporter. He said the town needs to determine the approximate cost of maintaining a 40-acre campus and conduct a traffic impact study “to insure community safety.” “However we are moving in the right direction with a planned traffic study,” Archambault wrote, adding that leaving an obsolete master plan on the town website creates confusion for residents. The two Select Board members have also faced an Open Meeting Law complaint filed July 2 with the Massachusetts Attorney General by Christopher Rizzo, treasurer of the Democratic Town Committee and a member of the Finance Committee. The complaint questioned whether Archambault and Elmasian had properly disclosed potential conflicts before participating in the vote. It stated, “Inadequate disclosures should have prevented Mr. Archambault and Ms. Elmasian from voting and potentially participating on Item R, negating all votes taken.” The complaint also raised questions about Elmasian’s campaign finance reporting and alleged support from the “Friends of Elizabeth Elmasian.” The Medeiros Farm project has been controversial for more than a year, including opposition from residents of Elm and Lincoln streets over plans involving multiple soccer fields. Two citizen petition articles appeared on the November 2025 Town Meeting warrant—one seeking to rescind $825,000 previously appropriated for the project and another seeking to rescind the Medeiros Farm Committee’s appointment. Both failed. Meanwhile, a citizens advocacy group has been formed to support moving the project forward. “The Seekonk Democratic Town Committee has formed the Friends of Medeiros Farm group to support the will of the voters at Town Meeting,” the group stated in a July 23 Facebook post. “This group is open to all Seekonk residents motivated to see the project through as voters intended.” Continued on next page...
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Town Administrator Shawn Cadime acknowledged the continuing criticism but said the town must balance competing concerns. “I understand there are people for this project and there are people against this project. I appreciate the concerns that residents have for the quality of life. We’re going to have to strike the balance. At the end of the day, town meeting has voted on this and until I’m directed not to proceed with this, I’ve got to proceed with it.” Elmasian said the disagreement is not about whether Seekonk needs recreational space. “I don’t think anybody in this town or at this table is against wanting the recreational space,” she said. “I think the problem is the number of fields and the make up of the project itself.” Archambault said his goal is to see the project completed without financial or legal problems. “I want this done properly and transparently without legal and financial missteps,” he wrote. “I know (residents) would expect nothing less from us but to make sure you receive value for your tax dollars and an explanation of your future financial obligations.” “If accomplished, we can all make better informed decisions as we build out this 40 acre campus known as Medeiros Farm. This will only be done through cooperation, flexibility and patience.”
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Soccer Fields at Gallishaw School to be Named in Honor of Neil Abelson By Joe Siegel
The Soccer Fields at the Gallishaw School in Seekonk will be named in honor of the late Neil Abelson, who had spent several years working in town government. Abelson, who passed away in 2024, served as a member of the Planning Board for 15 years and a member of the Zoning Board of Appeals for three years. He also served as the town’s Building Inspector and Zoning Enforcement Officer for eight years. Abelson was also a 35 year member of the Seekonk Lions Club. “But most importantly, Neil’s steadfast commitment to the Seekonk Youth Soccer League included over 20 years, starting with his son Kyle, guiding youth teams in Seekonk, coaching and mentoring the traveling Black Goose team,” Paul Buckley told the School Committee at their August 3 meeting. The Select Board approved the naming of the fields in Abelson’s honor at their July 8th meeting. Board Chair Gary Sagar praised Abelson’s work in helping mentor the soccer players over the years. Sagar explained Abelson was the co-chair of the Building Committee when Seekonk High School was renovated in 2000. “It’s a very deserving honor, I think,” Sagar said. The renaming ceremony will be held on Sunday, September 13.
Seekonk School Business Administrator Resigns By Joe Siegel
Ryan McGee, who has served as the Business Administrator for Seekonk Public Schools for the past three years, is resigning. Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell made the announcement at the August 31 school committee meeting. “We accept his resignation with regret,” Kidwell said. “We’re happy for him to move on to things that are right for his family.” “It’s been my pleasure to work with you,” Chair Robert Gerardi said to McGee. “I really appreciate all you’ve done.” Prior to his time in Seekonk,McGee was employed in the Stoughton Public Schools as the Administrator of Educational Technology. In this role, he worked with, maintained, and supported the District’s financial systems. In addition to his work with the public schools in Stoughton, McGee worked as the Town of Stoughton’s Information Technology Director. “We posted this afternoon for an Interim School Business Administrator,” Kidwell said Wednesday. “While we open the search to any viable, licensed applicants, I will work with existing staff to determine how we can best meet responsibilities. I will have an update for the Committee at the next meeting on September 14.”
Senior Property Tax Meeting Cancelled By Joe Siegel
The August 12 Select Board meeting to discuss implementing a senior tax exemption has been cancelled. On August 5, Select Board Chair Gary Sagar read a letter from Joyce Solomon from the Board of Assessors, which said “the town does not have the financial resources to support the program.” Solomon notified Sagar that the Assessors would be cancelling their appearance at the August 12 meeting. However, the town’s Finance Director, Jennifer Argo, denied Solomon’s claims in a letter to the Select Board. According to Argo, Solomon had requested using a portion of the Town’s Free Cash. Continued on page 32...
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The Reporter September 2026
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Argo informed Solomon that FY’26 Free Cash would “not be certified until October and any use of those funds will still require Town Meeting approval. Because of those restrictions, Free Cash was not available to fund the program upfront. After discussing the funding option, (Solomon) decided not to move forward with the new program because it could not be funded upfront. I want to be clear that I never said the Town does not have the financial resources to support the Senior Property Tax program.” The Board of Assessors presented a plan for senior property tax relief at the July 22 meeting. Their intention was to provide an exemption for anyone 65 years old and up. “They can not generate the income that a young person can generate,” Solomon noted. Sagar had said if the exemption were to be implemented, it would create a $2.6 million budget shortfall for the town. Solomon noted 1900 residents are 65 and older. She added the last time the town provided a tax exemption for seniors was in 2006.
Zorra Files Open Meeting Law Complaint By Joe Siegel
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Seekonk Select Board member Chris Zorra filed an Open Meeting Law complaint against the Board on August 6. The violation allegedly occurred on August 5. In his letter to the state Attorney General, Zorra wrote: “At a duly posted meeting of the Seekonk Select Board, the Chair placed an executive session agenda item for “contract negotiations” involving the Assistant Town Administrator/Human Resources Director and specifically identified the employee by name.” “At the time the agenda was posted, the employee had already submitted her written resignation. Her employment contract remained in full force and effect, and to my knowledge, there were no pending contract negotiations. The employee was never notified that contract negotiations would be discussed in executive session.” “In my opinion, the Chair invoked the contract negotiation exemption as the stated basis for entering executive session while using the session to discuss matters unrelated to negotiations.” Zorra is requesting that the Board “acknowledge that the executive session was convened under an improper purpose,” release the executive session minutes, publicly acknowledge any violation of the Open Meeting Law, require additional Open Meeting Law training for all members of the Select Board, and provide the former Assistant Town Administrator/Human Resources Director with written acknowledgement that discussions concerning her resignation and employment occurred without the notice that would have accompanied the actual purpose of the discussion.” Chair Gary Sagar declined to comment about the complaint.
September 2026 The Reporter
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Seekonk Human Services Holiday Hours
Closed on Monday, Sept 7, 2026
Michael Higgins Labor Day Celebration Wed, Sept 9, 2026 at 11:30am
Come join us for Michael Higgins’ advanced finger picking guitar style and smooth voice! He will be performing songs like ‘The Gambler”, “Amarillo by Morning”, and many more. Lunch will be Chicken Salad sandwiches. The fee for residents is $10 and nonresidents is $13. Requires preregistration.
Hearing Clinic
Mon, Sept 14, 2026 1:00 to 3:00 pm
Lauren Warburton from At Home Hearing Healthcare will be here for a hearing clinic. She specializes in detecting and resolving issues with hearing loss. Individuals will be advised regarding next steps for proper treatment. MassHealth is accepted if additional services are required. Requires preregistration.
Book Club
Tuesday, Sept 15, 2026 at 10:00 am
Come join the discussion of Sudden Sea: The Great Hurricane of 1938 by R.A. Scotti. Similarly to The Perfect Storm, this novel harkens back to a natural disaster that struck terror in the hearts of many. Readers will experience the Great Hurricane of 1938, the most financially destructive storm on record. The group will be led with discussion questions but feel free to bring your own. Requires preregistration.
Humor Me Comedy and Music Show: “Getting Old(er)” Wed, Sept 16, 2026 at 1:00 pm
Join us as Dave Maloof presents Humor Me! Dave is a comedian, musician, teacher, and “Old Guy” who shares his insight through
comedy songs, jokes, and stories. He’ll sing his own original songs and parodies (while playing keyboard or ukelele) and share his experiences and perspectives in his quest to make the aging experience entertaining and enlightening. Humor Me is for audiences of all ages, who are welcome to add their own experiences and perspectives on their journeys throughout (many) birthdays. This program is supported by a grant from the Seekonk Cultural Council. Requires preregistration.
The center is open Monday Thursday 8:15am - 4:00pm and Friday 8:15am - 12:00pm. We welcome all to come and enjoy the activities and companionship at Seekonk Human Services.
Flu Clinic
Mon, Sept 21, 2026 10:00 to 3:00 pm
The Seekonk Senior Center will host an on-site, seasonal flu vaccine clinic supported by CVS pharmacy. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity. Contact Lisa Valente, Regional Public Nurse, CDOE, at (508) 336-2979 for more information.
Wheel of Fortune Game Show
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Jazz for Beginners with Brooklyn
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Starting Tuesday, Sept 8th at 3pm, Brooklyn from the Seekonk High School will be teaching a 45-minute senior jazz class! Studies have shown that physical activity such as dance can aid in physical, cognitive, emotional, and social benefits as well as promote overall well-being and quality of life. All skill levels are welcome. Requires preregistration.
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Kevin Richman brings the excitement of live game shows right to your doorstep. Wheel of Fortune is coming to Seekonk Human Services! You will play as teams, and each member of the winning team will win a prize. Requires preregistration.
Tuesday, Sept 8, 2026 at 3:00pm
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The Reporter September 2026
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ZUMBA!
Monday, Sept14, 2026 at 9:00am
Starting on Sept 14, join us for ZUMBA taught by our very own Michelle! Zumba is a great way to start your week. Move, sweat and dance. Get moving and get healthy with Zumba! Requires preregistration.
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Blood Pressure and Glucose Clinic Wed, Sept 16th 9:00am - 11:00am
Join us for our free monthly blood pressure and glucose screenings. No appointment necessary. Provided by Seekonk’s Public Health Nurse.
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Basic Beginner ASL - Sign Language Class
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Wed, Sept 16, 2026 at 9:30am
Sign Language class starts Sept 16, 2026 and runs for 10 weeks. You will learn words, sentences and choruses. Class will meet every Wed until November 18, 2026. You will be using the book, “The Joy of Signing”. Class size is limited. Preregistration is required.
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Let’s Learn Together: Tech Help Hour
Tuesday, Sept 22, 2026 at 2:30pm
Do you have questions about using your smartphone or tablet? If so, bring them to tech help hour. The goal is to help each other learn how to use technology better. There is no set agenda, just your questions, and our answers, favorite tips, and tools. This program is moderated by Seekonk Public Library staff. Please be sure to bring your personal tablet, phone, or laptop. Please make sure that your device(s) are fully charged. Requires preregistration.
Seekonk Veterans’ Coffee Hour Monday, Sept 28, 2026 at 2:00 pm
Come and join Seekonk’s Veterans Services Officer, James LaFlame, for our coffee hour. The event is for our Veterans to have some coffee and dessert, network with other local veterans, learn about services and programs available to you as a veteran, and enjoy great company. Requires preregistration.
The Trail of Freedom
Wed, Sept 30, 2026 at 1:00 pm
Abigail Whitney is pleased to bring colonial Boston to you! Learn about the historical sites along the Trail of Freedom from historic
September 2026 The Reporter Boston Common to Bunker Hill. Gain detailed insight into famous patriots, townspeople, and events that were integral in shaping America and discover which sites and events Abigail and her family are personally associated. Enjoy this intimate, educational, and engaging experience as you take a trip down the Trail of Freedom without leaving Seekonk! Requires preregistration.
Backgammon and Checkers Tuesdays at 2:00pm
Whether you are a seasoned Backgammon player or would like to learn how to play, please join us! Players move their checkers around the board according to rolls of the dice and the first player to get all their checkers off is the winner. The fun comes from hitting and blocking your opponent’s checkers to impede their progress. This is a game of odds, calculation, patterns, and vision. To win a game of checkers, you must jump your checkers over all your opponent’s pieces or block their pieces so they can no longer make a move. Preregistration is required.
of mental stimulation, social interaction, and low-impact physical activity. Grab your cowboy hat and cowboy boots and join us! This program is supported by a grant from the Seekonk Cultural Council. Requires preregistration and opens Sept 15.
Weather Safety Tips and Supplies Monday, Oct 19, 2026 at 2:00pm
Lisa Valente is hosting a Weather Safety Tips and Supplies presentation. She will give you the information that you need to stay safe, as well as items you should have and things you should do in case of severe weather conditions. Attendees will receive a safety supplies kit to take home. Requires preregistration and opens Sept 15, 2026.
Book Club
Tuesday, Oct 20, 2026 at 10:00am
Book title to be announced. Contact us for additional information. Requires preregistration and opens Sept 15, 2026.
Nutritional Meals To Go
continued on next page...
Tuesdays, Weds, and Thursdays
Bristol Aging and Wellness provides nutritional to go meals for lunch on Tuesdays, Weds, and Thursdays. Meals come completely cooked and prepackaged. Meals need to be ordered the day before by 9:30am. The suggested donation is $2.25 per meal. The menu is available at our office and on our Facebook page.
Weekly Tuesday Luncheon at 12:00pm
Come have lunch with friends every Tuesday with food catered by The Hamilton Diner! Lunch is $7 for residents and $8 for nonresidents. On the last Tuesday of every month, we will celebrate Seekonk Seniors birthdays! On your birth month, you will only pay $2 for that lunch (Seekonk residents only) The menu is available at the Human Services office as well as our Facebook page.
Hearing Clinic
Mon, Oct 5, 2026 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Chris Brissette from Hearing Life will be here for a Hearing Clinic. Appointments are scheduled every 15 minutes. Requires preregistration and opens Sept 15, 2026.
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David J. Ledoux
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Harvest Party
Performance by: Kalifornia Karl
Wed, Oct 14, 2026 at 11:30am
Kalifornia Karl is a singer/guitarist/impressionist that is America’s busiest entertainer with over 1000 performances a year. A winner of Ed McMahon’s TV talent show Star Search in 1991. He has also been featured on the big screen with Gwyneth Paltrow, Andre Braugher and has shared the stage with Michael Buble, Huey Lewis and many others. He will be singing songs for Octfest. Turkey clubs and French fries will be served for lunch. The fee for residents is $10.00 and non-residents is $13.00. Requires preregistration and opens Sept 15, 2026.
Hip Hop Square Dance: Boots on the Ground Monday, Oct 19, 2026 at 11:30am
During this hour-long class, seniors will receive basic dance instruction. Hip Hop Square dance is a social, fun, dance activity where you will perform routines in four different directions. Instead of an in-person caller, hip hop square dance uses recorded instructions. Current research suggests that physical activity can slow down the decline of cognitive disabilities and may improve the quality of senior life. The Hip-Hop Square Dance Master class is a perfect mix
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The Reporter September 2026
Matt Davis Presentation Wed, Oct 21, 2026 at 1:00pm
Come and enjoy Destination Italy with Matt Davis: Exploring the land, the Cuisine, and the Culture. There are countless reasons why Italy is one of the world’s most popular travel destinations. This presentation will take the audience on a virtual tour of the country, showcasing its famous cities and the spectacular scenery of regions like Tuscany, the Amalfi Coast, and the Dolomiti. You’ll also explore various aspects of Italy’s rich history, culture, and cuisine. Andiamo! (Let’s go!). Requires preregistration and opens Sept 15, 2026.
Seekonk Veterans’ Coffee Hour Monday, Oct 26, 2026 at 2:00pm
Come join Seekonk’s Veterans’ Services Officer, James LaFlame, for our Coffee Hour. This event is for our Veterans to have some coffee and dessert, network with other local veterans, and learn about services and programs available to you as a veteran and enjoy great company. Requires preregistration and opens Sept 15, 2026.
Halloween Party
Wed, Oct 28, 2026 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. Entertainment will be provided by the 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. Requires preregistration and opens Sept 15, 2026.
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 packet from your plan by the end of Sept. It is important to understand and save this information: it explains the changes in your plan for 2027. 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 Medicare Counselors help you understand your plan changes as well as other options you may have. Open Enrollment runs from Oct 15 through December 7. Forms are due by November 7, 2026, to guarantee that they are completed.If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out by calling Seekonk Human Services at (508) 336-8772. 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.
Sandwich Glass Museum, Sandwich, MA
Wed, Oct 28, 2026 Price: $135.00 Per Person Depart at 7:45am Return Approx. 4:15pm
Begin your day with a stop at Green Briar Nature Center. The Green Briar Nature Center is a sanctuary of peace and beauty throughout the seasons. It is located on the shores of Smiling Pool and adjacent to the famous Briar Patch of Thornton Burgess’ stories. This unique spot boasts a mercantile, as well as a jam-making kitchen. After out visit we will head over to enjoy a buffet lunch at the Danl Webster Inn. The Inn is proudly recognized as a distinguished restaurant of North America, placing it in the top 1% of restaurants in the country. After lunch we will visit the Sandwich Glass Museum. Since 1925 the Sandwich Glass Museum has been interpreting the glassmaking history of the Town of Sandwich, and since 1980 they have been actively fostering contemporary glass art and the artists who make it. Trip includes: motorcoach transportation, driver gratuity, visit to the Green Briar Nature Center and the Sandwich Glass Museum. Lunch will be at Dan’l Webster Inn. Full payment due when signing up. Must sign up by Sept 28, 2026. Cash or check accepted.
Visit New York City
Saturday, December 5, 2026 Price: $85.00 Per Person Depart at 7:15am at 618 Taunton Avenue
(East Providence Park & Ride) Join us on a shopping trip to New York City. View the spectacular window displays or spend your time shopping and having lunch with your friends. Don’t miss the famous tree at Rockefeller Center or ride a horse and buggy through Central Park. Trip includes motorcoach only. Lunch and gratuity are NOT included. Full payment due when signing up. Must sign up by November 5, 2026. Cash or check accepted.
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 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 anyone you know is interested in this program, please call Nicole at Human Services at 508-336-8772.
Exercise Classes Mondays
Zumba 9am Movement & Meditation 10am Strength & Cardio 1pm
Tuesdays
Drums Alive 9am
Weds
Stability and Balance 8:30am Drums Alive 9:30am
Thursdays
Movement & Meditation 10am
Fridays
Dance Cardio 9:15am Tai Chi 10:30am
*All activities are subject to pre-registration
Games
Play an old favorite or learn something new! • Canasta - Mondays at 11am. A card game of the Rummy family • Backgammon & Checkers - Tuesdays at 2pm. • Hi-Low Jack (Pitch) - Tues & Thurs at 1pm. Win the game by having the highest card played in the trump suit • Mahjong - Wed at 1pm. Mahjong is a game of skill and chance that originated in China • Cribbage - Thurs at 11am. The first person to peg 121 points at the end of the board is the winner BINGO - Thurs at 1pm. Regular games $1.00 for 6 games. Specials $2.00 per game. A game of chance played with cards having numbered squares corresponding to numbers drawn at random. The center is open Monday - Thursday 8:15am - 4:00pm and Friday 8:15am 12:00pm. 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.
September 2026 The Reporter
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People In The News University News
Local Residents Named to Simmons University Dean’s List
The following local residents were named to the 2026 spring semester dean’s list at Simmons University in Boston: Abby Sousa, Sophia Wilcox
University of Rhode Island Celebrates More than 4,000 New Graduates during 2026 Commencement
Kingston, R.I. -- The University of Rhode Island celebrated more 4,000 of its newest alumni during the University’s 2026 Commencement. Approximately 3,800 undergraduate degrees and 900 graduate degrees were conveyed to students during the ceremonies which took place May 15-17, 2026. • Sarah Douglas, Bachelor of Science, From Rehoboth: Kinesiology • Emma Chapman,Bachelor of Science, • Perry Francis, Bachelor of Science in Civil Public Health Engineering • Jack Guddie, Bachelor of Science in Busi• Isabella Lachance, Master of Arts in Interness Administration, Bus Analytics & Artific national Relations Intel and a Bachelor of Science in Business • Nicholas Lehourites, Bachelor of Science, Administration, Finance Data Science • Pilar Beerman-Rodriguez, Bachelor of • Kayla Owens, Bachelor of Arts, CommuArts, Strategic Communication nication Studies • Megan Oliveira, Master of Arts in TESOL/ • Bethany Pucino, Master of Environmental Bilingual and Dual Language Immersion Science and Management Kelli Ryan, • Edward Turnbull, Bachelor of Science in Bachelor of Science, Communicative Business Administration, Finance Disorders From Seekonk: • Cullen Steitz, Bachelor of Science in • Ethan Clarke, Bachelor of Fine Arts, Nursing Theatre
Discovering Paw-paws Close to Home
An East Providence man is sharing a taste of the tropics — and hoping the unusual fruit takes root throughout our area By Michaela Oerman
When Jose Barros came to America from Rio, Brazil, in 1973, he was just 16 years old. Decades later, he was reintroduced to the paw-paw, an unusual fruit whose sweet, tropical flavor brought back memories of his childhood. Joe was fascinated that something that tasted like the tropics could thrive right here in New England, so he started planting. Sixteen years later, his East Providence backyard is home to approximately 40 paw-paw trees, along with hundreds of younger trees he has grown himself from seed. My young daughters and I recently had the chance to step inside Joe’s little tropical corner of East Providence — and, more importantly, taste the fruit that has inspired him for so many years. It didn’t take long to understand his enthusiasm. A ripe paw-paw has soft, custard-like flesh and a flavor that’s difficult to describe without naming half the tropical fruit section. Think banana, mango, papaya and pineapple all rolled into something entirely its own. We eagerly dug in, and it was delicious — sweet, creamy, tropical and unlike anything we had tried before. Joe had also made paw-paw ice cream with chunks of the fruit mixed throughout, which was another hit with all three of us. For Joe, though, growing paw-paws isn’t simply about having an unusual fruit tree in his backyard. He wants other people to discover them, grow them and share them. His goal is ambitious, but wonderfully fun: “Let’s make Rhode Island the capital of the paw-paw.” continued on next page...
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The Reporter September 2026
Joe says paw-paws are surprisingly easy to grow in our area, and their ability to thrive in the New England climate is part of what Veteran Owned makes them so fascinating. That means gardeners in Rehoboth and Seekonk can grow them, too. They prefer more sun than shade, and after a few years of patience, growers can begin enjoying fruit of their own. Even before they produce fruit, the trees put • Interior & Exterior Painting on a show. In the spring, paw-paws produce • Residential & Commercial beautiful flowers, and by the time the fruit begins ripening in September, Joe says, • Pressure Washing “your yard will smell tropical.” • Cabinet Refinishing He even gave my daughters a hands-on • Wallpapering lesson, showing them how to plant the young • Small Carpentry trees themselves. Watching them learn from someone who so clearly loves growing and sharing things was one of my favorite parts LUNDCO PAINTING of our time there. 21 Brook St, Suite 17 And paw-paws are only the beginning of Seekonk, MA 02771 what’s growing in Joe’s yard. As a garden DLund@LundcoPainting.com enthusiast myself, I was impressed — and 508-761-6556 admittedly a little excited — by nearly everywww.LundcoPainting.com thing he showed us. On our private garden tour, we tasted flowers filled with natural Joe Barros in front of one of his sugars that attract birds and stopped to many paw-paw trees. see his chestnut trees. I had never realized chestnuts grow inside such incredibly spiky outer shells, which help protect what’s growing inside from the squirrels. Joe showed us herbs, lilacs, trumpet trees, passion fruit trees, holly and plants traditionally associated with aspirin. We saw BraFree Inspections • Roof Moss Removal zilian eggplant and another plant Joe called sawa sawa, whose seeds he carefully saves so he can grow even more. Joe is still experimenting, too. He has plans to explore combining paw-paw with cherimoya, another sweet tropical fruit. It fits perfectly with his approach to gardening: there always seems to be something new to grow, save, taste or try. Everywhere we turned, there seemed to be another plant with a story behind it. That same creativity extends beyond his garden. A former restaurant owner, Joe still loves to cook, which, as someone who loves to cook myself, gave us even more to talk about. I especially enjoyed seeing the outdoor cooking area he has created, complete with his own brick oven and outdoor rotisserie. I even got to taste his own seasoning blend, fittingly called “Taste of the Island.” It was yet another personal touch in a backyard that seems to reflect Joe himself — creative, curious and always growing, cooking or creating something. And then there was Angel. Just when my daughters might have thought our visit couldn’t get much more interesting, we met RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL SERVICES Joe’s 26-year-old cockatoo, Angel, who was born right here in East • SOFT WASHING / POWER WASHING Providence. Angel talked and sang to us — and even danced for us. Needless to say, he was a hit. (low pressure) ROOF & HOUSE CLEANING But what stayed with me most after our visit wasn’t any one plant, • Reduce Damage to Your Roof from the dancing cockatoo or even the taste of our first fresh paw-paw. It Further Growth of Lichen, Moss, was Joe’s genuine excitement about sharing all of it. If Joe gets his and Black Mold (Streaks)! wish, they’ll eventually spread from his East Providence backyard into yards throughout Rhode Island — and perhaps across the state HOUSES • ROOFS • VINYL SIDING • WALKWAYS line into Rehoboth, Seekonk and beyond. DECKS • FENCES • PATIOS • WALLS • GUTTERS So, if you happen to see the wagon out front at 159 Grove Avenue in East Providence this September, stop, meet Joe and try a paw-paw. You may just leave inspired to grow one yourself. My girls and I certainly did — we left with three young paw-paw trees of our own, ready to plant. And while Joe may dream of making offer expires 10/15/2026 cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion Rhode Island the paw-paw capital, there’s no reason these tropicaltasting New England natives can’t take root across the state line, Call for Free Estimate 508-567-4782 too. Maybe a few Rehoboth and Seekonk backyards will be part of southcoastpressurewash@gmail.com Joe’s growing paw-paw mission.
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September 2026 The Reporter
Reaching for the paw-paws
Paw-paws, Brazilian eggplant, chestnut & papaya
Paw-paws grow in clusters that resemble an animal's paw
Joe and Angel
Many baby trees ready to be planted
continued on page 47...
Adeline and Josephine enjoying pawpaw ice cream and fruit
39
If the wagon is out front at 159 Grove Avenue in East Providence, stop by to meet Joe and taste the paw-paw! Paw-paw trees will be for sale mid-September thru October.
40
The Reporter September 2026
September 2026 The Reporter
41
Food & Dining Guide Dine In, Take Out, or Try a Recipe at Home!
Fall
Pack Pasta Salad in a Jar for a Taste of Summer in School Lunches
(Feature Impact) When students open up their lunchboxes in the cafeteria, it’s fun to be greeted with something bright, colorful and fresh. Pasta salad is a summer picnic staple, but once the weather starts to cool and kids head back to school, there’s nothing to say you can’t send a taste of summer with them. The beauty of pasta salad is it’s totally customizable, ideal for eating cold and easy to make ahead of time. That means you can spend the evening before school dishing up jars then pop them in the fridge for a quick morning grab-and-go lunchbox filler. Adults in the household can take one to work while kids have their own at school - and if anyone wants a different dressing or no olives, it’s an easy accommodation. If you’re making this Pasta Salad in a Jar recipe as the main course instead of a lunchtime side, up the protein by adding beans, chicken or cubed cheese to keep kids energized for the second half of the day. Choose whole-grain or high-protein pasta for an extra nutritional boost, and pack in vitamins and fiber with plenty of crunchy fresh produce, from cucumbers and carrots to tomatoes and olives. Find more school-day recipes at Culinary.net.
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FRESH SEASONAL GREENS, TOMATOES, ONIONS, CUCUMBERS & OLIVES
See ourMAIN Facebook COURSEpage for fullPREGO menu options NO PRATO CHOOSE ONE
PAN SEARED 5OZ SIRLOIN STEAK TOPPED W/ AN EGG IN HOUSE BURGUNDY WINE SAUCE SERVED W/ PORTUGUESE FRIES
VALID September thru November PICADINHO DE GALINHA
BACK TO SCHOOL FAMILY MEAL DEALS Feeds Four - Takeout only SLICED CHICKEN BREAST & CHOURICO WITH HOT CHERRY PEPPERS IN BURGANDY WINE SAUCE SERVED W/ RICE & PORTUGUESE FRIES
CARNE A PORTUGUESA
MARINATED PORK MIXED W/ ROASTED POTATOES
SANDES DE CACOILA
PULLED PORK SHOULDER SANDWICH SERVED W/ PORTUGUESE FRIES
LINGUINE ESPANHOLA
See our Facebook page for FILETES DOURADOS full menu options LITTLE NECK CLAMS, CHOURICO, BELL PEPPERS & ONIONS IN A RED SAUCE OVER LINGUINE
FRIED BATTERED FILET OF SCROD TOPPED W/ SEAFOOD SAUCE SERVED W/ RICE & PORTUGUESE FRIES
MADEIRA
Pasta Salad in a Jar
DESSERT
Recipe adapted from Best of This Life Prep time: 10 minutes ~ Servings: 1
CHOOSE ONE
PUDIM FLAN
CHOCOLATE MOUSSE
Ingredients:
Dressing: • 2 tablespoons olive oil • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar • 1/8 teaspoon dried basil • 1/8 teaspoon oregano • 1/8 teaspoon parsley • salt, to taste • freshly ground pepper, to taste
Lunch Combo $20 per person
R E S TA U R A N T VALID September thru November
Salad: • 1/4 cup canned chickpeas, rinsed • 1/2 cup halved grape tomatoes • 1/2 cup diced cucumber • 2 tablespoons sliced Kalamata olives • 1 cup cooked pasta of choice, cooled • 1 cup chopped spinach
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Directions
To make dressing: In canning jar, combine olive oil, vinegar, basil, oregano, parsley and salt and pepper, to taste. Stir in chickpeas. Layer tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, cooked pasta and spinach over dressing. Refrigerate until ready to serve. To serve, flip jar over and lightly shake to combine dressing with other ingredients. Source: Culinary.net
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The Reporter September 2026
Church News & Events Rehoboth Congregational Church Come as you are - All are welcome!
We worship online & in-person 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 • Sunday School- Pre-K through High School ages • Interactive hands on faith based lessons • Program year starts September 13th! Registration is open! Contact us to get registered! • Upcoming Church & Sunday School Events! • Worship to kick off Sunday School: September 13th • Make A Difference Day: October 24th • Family Fall Festival: October 25th • Christmas Bazaar: November 6th & 7th • Christmas Pageant & Crazy Sweater Contest: December 20th • Mission of the Month Every month our Missions Committee partners with a non-profit organization whose work resonates with our call to share the Good News of God by caring for others and to be supportive beyond our church home here in the Village. A big thank you to all who donated to this month’s Missions of the Month! With the help of Church School we were able to assemble 15 backpacks filled with school supplies. The backpacks were donated to the Rehoboth Food Pantry. We had a lot of extra supplies that were delivered to Angel’s Care Closet in Seekonk for
their backpack project. Again, thank you for helping RCC give back to the children and families of our community! Contact us for more information on our Church, events or Sunday School. www.rehobothcongregational.org | 508-252-4545 139 Bay State Rd. Rehoboth
Seekonk Congregational Church Sunday Services
We hope you will join us each Sunday at Seekonk Congregational Church UCC at our weekly service with Communion in the Sanctuary at 600 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk, MA . All services begin at 9:30 and all are welcome. Licensed infant/preschool day care is available every week. Check us out, you will be happy you did. Church school begins in September with Welcome Back Sunday on Sept 13th, this year’s theme is “There’s Room for Everyone on the Ark”. Teachers will be commissioned and there will be a special Animal Adventure in the hall during class time. It’s time to register your children. Nursery through 9th grade. Check out our Facebook page for the registration form. Learn about our faith, build friendships and grow in God’s love. Any questions email scc.ucc.christianed@gmail.com
Breakfast Sunday Sept 13th beginning at 8 AM
The Men’s Coffee Connection will begin the new year with a breakfast, join us before going to church for Tom’s scrambled eggs, Bacon, Home Fries, French toast sticks, Fresh fruit bowl, Bagels, Assorted muffins, Coffee, Tea and Orange Juice. All for $10 per adult, $5 children under 12 and a maximum charge of $30 per family. Get your tickets at the door. Proceeds of this breakfast will
September 2026 The Reporter be used to replace the wooden signs in the front of the church on Fall River Ave.
RI Blood Center – Blood Drive
Join us for our next blood drive and help make a meaningful difference in our community. Thursday October 1, 2026 4 – 7 PM Woodworth Hall, 600 Fall River Ave Seekonk, MA Sign up at donate.ribc.org or stop by as a walk-in
YARD SALE
It’s time to clear out your basements, closets, garages and attics. We are having a Yard Sale on Saturday Oct 17, 2026 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. Check out our Facebook page in September for the earliest time you can drop off items. For any questions or to reserve a table, call Jenn at the Church Office 508-336-9355.
On-Going Mission Concerns & Needs
• The clothing shed is at the end of the County Street parking lot. Drop off your clothing, shoes, belts, purses, blankets, sheets, curtains, pillowcases or stuffed animal donations in a tied-up bag. • CANS & BOTTLES MA deposit Only: Save the environment and people!! Bring donations to the green bins - Fall River Ave parking lot - lift lid - drop in clean bottles and cans. DEPOSIT ONLY, no water bottles please. • FOOD PANTRY (in Porch Area off the County Street parking) is for anyone you know who has financial challenges. Needed: canned meats, tuna, Cereals, stew, peanut butter, paper goods, cereal bars, tuna pouches, crackers - Check the expiration dates If you have any questions on the above or wish to subscribe to our weekly newsletter, please email Donna.euell@gmail.com. All events and services are open to ALL. Please check out our Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/SeekonkCongregationalChurch/ for updates. No matter who you are, or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome at Seekonk Congregational Church
Community Covenant Church to Become “Thrive Community Church”
Rehoboth congregation takes its new name from the biblical word that gave its town one; first Sunday as Thrive Community Church is September 6 Rehoboth, Mass. — Community Covenant Church will change its name to Thrive Community Church. The congregation’s first official Sunday under the new name is September 6. The following is a statement from Lead Pastor Josh Reich. There is a story in Genesis 26 that I could not get out of my head. Isaac digs a well, and somebody runs him off it. He digs another one, and they run him off that one too. Finally he digs a well nobody fights him for, and he names it Rehoboth — a Hebrew word that just means open space, or to make room. And he says, “Now the LORD has given us room and we will flourish in the land.” Another word for flourish is thrive. And the town this church has sat in since 1989 is named Rehoboth. Don’t miss that. I didn’t invent the connection. I just finally noticed it a few years ago, and then I started asking a question I have not stopped asking since: what would it look like for us to make room for people to thrive? That question went to our elders and our staff, and we prayed over it for some time. What came out of it is not a slogan. It is how we understand our job: helping people thrive in their relationships with God, themselves, and others. In that order, because the second two flow out of the first.
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So we are naming ourselves after it. Can I tell you what this is not? It is not a fresh coat of paint over a problem. It is not a change in what we believe or who is welcome here. The church family is the same. The building is the same. The name is the one thing changing, and it is changing because it best describes who we are and where God is taking us. We have done this before, by the way. This church began in 1971 as Faith Bible Chapel. In 1989 it became Community Covenant Church, and the people who were here then will tell you that name said exactly what God was calling them to in that season. That is all we are doing now. One of our new logos still carries 1971 on it, because we are not walking away from anybody’s history. We are standing on it. Here is my invitation. Come on September 6. Bring your neighbor. Sit in a room full of ordinary people who still believe God does great things, and find out what it looks like to make room. That is the whole point of the name. — Josh Reich, Lead Pastor
Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church Parish Blood Drive Sunday 9/27/2026 8am to 12pm Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church
Walk in or appointment @ www.ribc.orgdrives use code: RM1375. Sponsored by: OLMC/OLQM & KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS #5108
Craft Fair
October 3rd at 10am to 3pm Craft / vendors wanted
Abundant Life Assembly of God 135 New Meadow Rd, Swansea, MA To reserve a spot please call 401-871-4005 and request an application form.
CRAFT FAIR
Saturday November 7, 2026 9 AM - 2 PM St. Nicholas of Myra 499 Spring Street, North Dighton, MA Call Liz at 508-212-0375 for more info.
REHOBOTH BAPTIST CHURCH 132 Moulton Street (Route 118) Rehoboth, MA 02769
REGULAR SUNDAY SERVICES • Sunday School - 9:00am • The Lord’s Service - 10:30am • Prayer Meeting - 6:00pm
WEDNESDAYS
Bible Study - 7:00pm
508-252-6437 • www.RehobothBaptistChurch.org Rehoboth Baptist Church is located on Route 118, two miles south of the Route 44 intersection. Visit our website for current information about our services or to contact the pastor or an elder.
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The Reporter September 2026
Rehoboth Ramblings By Leslie Patterson September Song I can’t really add much to all the well-deserved tributes paid to the late Dolly Parton, who was certainly a national treasure in so many ways: singer/songwriter, actress and comedienne, shrewd businesswoman and philanthropist, and an all-around good person, which is certainly a rare trait in show business, or anywhere really.
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Outside the world of music, Dolly was especially respected for donating over 330 million books to children all over the world for the past 30 years to promote a love of reading in children, through her “Imagination Library”, making her a hero to teachers and librarians everywhere. In a time of conflict and controversy about a new and scary epidemic in 2020, she donated over one million dollars to Vanderbilt University for research on the new Covid vaccine in 2020. She had herself photographed getting her vaccine shot too, to make it seem less scary to the nervous millions out there. Writer David Graham in The Atlantic notes that “Dolly Parton commanded nearly universal admiration among Americans and her death leaves an absence that no contemporary cultural figure could dream of filling.” And all this while wearing flamboyant outfits and those amazing blonde wigs and poking fun at herself. That wonderful line: “It costs a lot of money to look this cheap.” The world is certainly a duller place without her in it. Speaking of music, this year marks 40 years since the release of Paul Simon’s outstanding “Graceland” album, one of the best albums of our era and one of my favorites. I hope he will be with us a while longer. There is a new book out about the making of “Graceland” called “Days of Miracle and Wonder” that I am looking forward to reading. And speaking of music and the passage of time, the Rolling Stones are still making new music in their 80’s. My daughter helpfully pointed out to me that the amount of time that has lapsed since the Stones first appeared on the scene in the mid-60’s is roughly the same amount of time (i.e. 60 years) since the greatest hits of the day were turn-of-the-20th century songs like “Meet Me in St. Louis, Louis” and those favorite old classics from George M. Cohan like “Give My Regards to Broadway”. Now that will give you pause! Could I just say that time seems to mean nothing to me anymore? I often think, “Never mind missing the 60’s and 70s; I’m nostalgic for the 80’s and 90’s.” I can’t seem to accept that the mid-1970’s were 50 years ago (!) Sometimes you still hear someone refer to the “turn of the century” when they mean 1900. Old habits die hard. Not many people use the phrase for our new (not so new now) century. I just say “since the millennium” which is pretty clear. And how did the millennium get to be over a quarter of a century ago, I ask, while humming “Who Knows Where the Time Goes”. This year is the 25th anniversary of the World Trade Center atrocity. What a sad, disturbing, and horrifying time that was. And to think that younger people today will have no personal memories of that terrible time. As we race headlong into the world of massive data centers blotting the landscape and the scary world of AI and billionaire technocrats trying to run (ruin?) the world, not even to mention the deadly heatwaves, fires and floods of climate change, the future does seem alarming. September has always seemed melancholy to me in some way. This is ironic in that we often have our most beautiful weather in early fall. I guess it’s the knowledge of what is going to follow the pleasant spell soon enough. The encroaching darkness in the evening is a reminder of this. Now to get on my favorite hobby-horse: daylight savings time, or the lack of it. As this topic is discussed yet again, here is just a reminder that if we did have year-round standard time, the sun would rise around 4am and set around 7:30pm in June, where we live in New England. That is something I am not interested in seeing. There is simply not enough light to go around in the winter. Guess we’ll have to take it up with the solar system.
September 2026 The Reporter
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Investment Strategies
Written by Lars Lambrecht, CFP, CLU, BFA, AMPA, CDFA, CLTC, CSLP, owner of Island Time Financial Services, Inc.
The universe of investing is quite expansive. Managed accounts are typically utilized when a financial professional is helping you select your investments. These accounts can be discretionary (where the advisor is making all decisions) or non-discretionary (where the advisor makes recommendations, but you make decisions). Non-managed accounts are typically referred to as brokerage accounts or commission-based accounts. With managed accounts, a percentage of the account comes out as a fee. One advantage of managed accounts is that the universe of investments is massive. Because of this, many people roll their 401(k) over to a managed IRA when they leave an employer. It is possible to invest in stocks, bonds, mutual funds, ETFs, CDs, treasuries, money market accounts and alternative investments. In addition, managed accounts allow you to purchase institutionalclass shares of mutual funds, which typically have lower internal fees than retail accounts. Non-retirement investment accounts produce taxable income. Any interest or dividends are taxed. If you sell a security for a profit, you may need to pay capital gains taxes. Mutual funds can also distribute capital gains, which is phantom income that is taxed. There are a few key tax strategies to consider. If you invest in municipal bonds (either individual bonds or in a mutual fund), the dividend is tax-free at a Federal level. If you invest in municipal bonds in the state you reside in, the dividends may be tax-free at both a Federal and State level. A second strategy to consider is investing in equity ETFs versus mutual funds. Most equity mutual funds produce phantom income when they distribute capital gains. In contrast, most ETFs do NOT distribute capital gains phantom income. Tax loss harvesting is a third strategy which can result in significant tax savings. With tax loss harvesting, you purposely sell an investment that has lost money (known as a capital loss). Capital losses can be used to offset capital gains. You can also use $3,000 per year of capital losses against other forms of income. Capital losses carryover from year to year until they are utilized. Be aware of
the wash sale rule; capital losses will not be realized if you buy the same or substantially identical security within 30 days before or after the sale. There are many different ways to measure success in investing or determining “the best” mutual fund to invest in. Two of the statistical Lars Lambrecht measures I favor are Alpha and Beta. Alpha is a measure of how well an investment does on a risk-adjusted basis. If an investment has a positive Alpha, it returned higher than its benchmark. Beta is a measure of risk versus a benchmark. If an investment has a Beta above 1, it is riskier or more volatile than the benchmark. So, in an ideal world, you want investments that have a positive Alpha and low Beta. If you are not sure what your portfolio Alpha and Beta are, you may want to take a closer look at this. One final critical strategy is to diversify your investments, or not to put all of your eggs in one basket. You should have diversification on two levels. First, you should invest in multiple securities. For example, you might invest in two large company growth funds. Second, you want to diversify your asset allocation, or broad categories of investments. Broad categories of asset allocation include equities (stocks), fixed income (bonds), cash and alternative investments. Each of these has sub-categories, such as large companies, medium sized companies, small companies and international companies. According to Morningstar, research shows that diversified portfolios can provide higher returns with lower risk. This is because different types of investments have varying performance and volatility. For example, large company stocks might do really well this year and not so well next year, but medium sized companies might not do well this year, but do better next year. There is no guarantee that a diversified portfolio will outperform a non-diversified portfolio in any given market environment. No investment strategy, such as asset allocation, can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values. Lars Lambrecht, Rehoboth resident and Certified Financial Planner, is available to answer questions or meet for a consultation. 617-947-6428
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The Reporter September 2026
Events & Activities East Bay Retired Teachers’ Association Fall Luncheon September 17,2026
The East Bay Retired Teachers’ Association will be hosting their fall luncheon on September 17,2026 at the Grist Mill, Seekonk, Ma., at 11:30 AM. The planned program is invited speaker Crisolita Brita, CEO of Harbor for Hope Foundation located at 100 East Ave. Pawtucket, R.I. , which provides resources and opportunities through educational support. Presently, they are training participants to become CNAs to work in hospitals and nursing facilities. However, their prospectus is to add more educational opportunities in other fields of study. With our financial support we can help this organization succeed. The project is to give monetary donations to Harbor for Hope Foundation. The luncheon selections are prime rib, baked scrod and turkey dinner which consists of salad, entree, dessert, coffee, tea or soft drinks and the Grist Mill’s famous cinnamon bread. The cost is $30. Please submit your check and selection to: Anne Laderer 18 Monmouth Drive Riverside, R.I. 02915 by Sept 11, 2026. If you are unable to attend and would like to contribute to this worthy educational project, please remit your donation written out to Harbor for Hope Foundation to Rae Holland Long 25 Butts Rock Rd. Little Compton, R.I. 02837. We will also conduct our scholarship raffle which helps finance (2) $1000 awards yearly to worthy seniors from East Providence High School and Mt. Hope High School. Please remember to bring your new raffle items. Hoping to see many of our former colleagues and friends at this fun event. With your help and support we contribute to local charities that help make the lives of our less fortunate friends and neighbors better. And gives us a sense of satisfaction and gratification that we are all our brothers keepers. See you on the 17th.
September 19th Genealogy Presentation
by Bristol Chapter of Massachusetts Society of Genealogists, Inc.
Saturday, September 19th
88The Bristol Chapter of the Massachusetts Society of Genealogists, Inc. will hold its monthly business meeting on Saturday, September 19th followed by a presentation beginning at Noon. This presentation is free and Open to the Public. David Allen Lambert will present in-person “Deciphering Old Handwriting”.
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While we might wish all our ancestors’ records were typed in a standard format and perfectly legible, that simply isn’t the case. Many of the records family historians turn to are handwritten and may be faded, use archaic terminology, unfamiliar abbreviations, or are just plain illegible. This online lecture will provide practical strategies for approaching handwritten documents, understanding and deciphering hard-to-read handwriting from different time periods, so that you can make the most of these important resources in your family history research. David Allen Lambert, Chief Genealogist has been on the staff of American Ancestors/NEHGS since 1993 and is an internationally recognized speaker on the topics of genealogy and history. He has authored many articles in the New England Historical and Genealogical Register, the New Hampshire Genealogical Record, Rhode Island Roots, Mayflower Descendant, and American Ancestors magazine; and is the author of eleven books including A Guide to Massachusetts Cemeteries and Vital Records of Stoughton, Massachusetts, to the end of the year 1850. David is an elected Fellow of the Massachusetts Historical Society in Boston, Mass., and a life member of the New Hampshire Society of the Cincinnati and the General Society of the War of 1812. David also serves as the tribal genealogist for the Massachusett Tribe at Punkapoag in Massachusetts. His areas of expertise include New England and Atlantic Canadian records of the 17th through 21st century; American and international military records; DNA research; and Native American and African American genealogical research in New England. “This program has applied for support from the Somerset Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.” Please join us at Noon in-person at the Somerset Public Library, 1464 County St., Somerset, MA 02726 or virtually via ZOOM. Those who wish to attend virtually need to pre-register at https:// tinyurl.com/BristolSep2026 after which you will receive an email confirmation with instructions for logging into this session. Do not share what you receive. It is unique to you. Closed Captioning is available for this presentation. For more information contact bristol@msoginc.org. A schedule of Bristol Chapter presentations is available at https://msoginc.org/chapter/bristol/ and https://www.facebook. com/msoginc.
Rehoboth Minutemen/13th Continental Regiment Host Colonial Weekend Event September 26-27, 2026 In Dighton
Saturday, Sept. 26th, 10:00-4:00 & Sunday, Sept. 27th 10:00-3:00 at Wood’s Farm, 1326 Somerset Ave, Dighton, MA
• ENJOY a free, family-friendly event (no pets, please!) • WATCH American Revolution-style battles (warning - loud noises!) • TOUR colonial-era camp-life • SHOP 18th-century merchants Commemorative Limited Edition BATTLE OF DIGHTON TSHIRTS available for pre-sale at Dighton Town Clerk’s Office sites.google.com/view/13thcontlregt/battle-of-dighton/battle-ofdighton-info for more information, or scan the QR code for parking, food, entertainment, and other details Questions? Please e-mail us at anniversarycommittee@ dighton-ma.go
September 2026 The Reporter
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The Reporter September 2026
Carpenter Museum History Talk Following the Light:
The Life of Patience Greene Brayton
Join the Carpenter Museum for a presentation on the life of Patience Greene Brayton, local 18th-century Quaker preacher and one of the earliest abolitionists. Following the Light: The Life of Patience Greene Brayton will take place Thursday September 24th at 6:30PM in the Tilton Room at the Carpenter Museum, 4 Locust Avenue, Rehoboth. The presentation will be given by Marybeth Rua-Larsen and John Larsen. It will explore the life of Brayton, a local 18th-century Quaker preacher who traveled extensively and was an abolitionist. The presentation will also include an update on the efforts to restore the Swansea Friends Meeting House, where Patience preached. Marybeth Rua-Larsen is a Reference Librarian and archivist who chairs the Summerset Historical Commission. John Larsen is the Director of the Somerset Historical Society and serves on the Historical Commission. Both serve on the Board of Friends of Somerset Historic Preservation. This event is free and open to the public. The program will be held in the Tilton Room of the Carpenter Museum. Registration is recommended. To register email carpentermuseum@gmail.com or call us at 508252-3031. Parking can be found in the back lot behind the museum off of Bay State Road. Arts in the Village presents
Frederick Moyer, Pianist Sunday October 4, 2026 2:30 PM
Goff Hall, 124 Bay State Rd, Rehoboth, MA
Frederick Moyer began studies at age seven with his mother Betsy Moyer, a graduate of Oberlin Conservatory. In junior high school, he began studies with Theodore Lettvin, and in high school entered Curtis Institute of Music where he studied with Eleanor Sokoloff. Later, at Indiana University, he studied with Menahem Pressler of the Beaux Arts Trio. An avid computer programmer and inventor with multiple patents, Fred has created innovative concerts that redefine the piano recital. His many recordings comprise works by over thirty composers and reflect an affinity for a wide variety of styles. Many composers have written for Moyer including Pulitzer Prize winners George Walker and Ned Rore. For information call 508-431-6879 or go to http://www.rehobothantiquarian.org/artsin-the-village/
September 2026 The Reporter
Harvest for Heroes: Family Fun with a Meaningful Mission Sunday, October 18
This October, Poppy’s Crew invites the Rehoboth community to come together for Harvest for Heroes, a family fundraiser benefiting Wreaths Across America and our mission to remember and honor local veterans. Poppy’s Crew was created in memory of our Poppy, a retired U.S. Navy Cruiser Sailor, and has grown into a family effort to help ensure veterans laid to rest in our community are never forgotten. Each December, remembrance wreaths are placed on the graves of local veterans as part of Wreaths Across America’s mission to Remember the fallen, Honor those who serve, and Teach the next generation the value of freedom. This year, we’re bringing the community together to support that mission with a fun fall afternoon at Terrydiddle Farm on Sunday, October 18, from 1:00–5:00 p.m. Harvest for Heroes will feature Bingo with some incredible prizes, raffles, food and drinks, kids’ activities and more. Our Bingo prizes, raffle items and children’s activities are being donated and sponsored by some amazing local businesses and community supporters who are helping us make this a really special day. We’re still putting together all of the fun and look forward to sharing more surprises as the event gets closer! Tickets are $30 for adults and $10 for kids, with proceeds helping Poppy’s Crew sponsor remembrance wreaths for local veterans. As an extra thank-you for planning ahead, every ticket purchased before the day of the event will also receive a bonus entry into our YETI Cooler Raffle! The prize is a patriotic YETI cooler filled with everything you need for an All-American cookout—another fun way to support our mission and maybe go home a winner! Come play Bingo, bring the kids, enjoy an afternoon with friends and neighbors, and help us make sure the stories and sacrifices of those who served are never forgotten.
Together, we remember. Together, we honor.
Rehoboth to Honor Veterans During America’s 250th Anniversary
As America celebrates its 250th anniversary in 2026, Poppy’s Crew is expanding its Wreaths Across America effort to honor Rehoboth veterans and Revolutionary War heroes. On Saturday, December 19, Poppy’s Crew will hold its third annual ceremony at Rehoboth Village Cemetery, placing remembrance wreaths on veterans’ graves and speaking their names aloud. This year, the group also hopes to place wreaths at the gravesites of Revolutionary War patriots throughout Rehoboth. Residents can help by sponsoring a wreath, attending the free ceremony, volunteering or supporting fundraisers. To sponsor a wreath, visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/NH0043P. For questions or prize donations, email waapoppyscrew@gmail.com.
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September 2026 The Reporter
Club News & ANNOUNCEMENTS Seekonk Knights of Columbus Charity Craft Fair October 17, 2026 - Vendors Wanted
The Seekonk Knights of Columbus will host their sixth annual charity craft fair on Saturday, October 17, 2026, from 10 am – 2 pm at 532 Arcade Ave., Seekonk, MA 02771. We will have 45 vendors on site. Free parking. Free admission. This is a fun event and sells out every year. Outdoor lots measure 15 ft. x 30 ft. which will accommodate a vendor’s vehicle and pop-up canopy for $30. Indoor tables are $30 each and include an 8 ft. table and chairs with setup and breakdown assistance. Contact the Seekonk K of C as soon as possible at 508.336.7952 to reserve your space. For more information, visit us on FaceBook. Rain date is Sunday, October 18, 2026.
Events at the Seekonk American Legion Post 311 Fall Psychic Fair – October 25th
We will be holding our Fall Psychic Fair on Sunday, 10/25/26. Admission is free. 15-minute readings are $20.00 each. There will also be several Vendors and Crafters (spaces are available). The hours are from 10 am to 3 pm. Proceeds to benefit American Legion Auxiliary programs for our Veterans, community and children. For more information, please send an email to Kathy at auxiliary311@ yahoo.com.
Fall Meat Raffles Oct 10th - Nov 14
Saturdays at 2 pm. There are 3 tables of steaks, chicken, pork, seafood, TV and other prizes. 50/50 raffles.
Music at the American Legion
• Friday Night Band – No Cover Charge - starts at 8 pm • Rock-A-Blues – 9/11
Hall Rental
• 150 person capacity. Contact Bob for information at 508-336-9822
Seekonk Lions Club News
Heartfelt Request to Name Soccer Fields in Honor of Neal Abelson
Members of the Seekonk Lions Club made a heartfelt request during the Seekonk School Committee meeting to name the town’s soccer fields on Cole Street in honor of the late Neal Abelson, a beloved native and dedicated member of the public. Neal Abelson was a proud Seekonk resident whose extensive service and solid commitment made a lasting impact on the town. His contributions include: • 35 years as a member of the Seekonk Lions Club • Nine years on the Seekonk Planning Board (2007–2016) • Three years on the Seekonk Zoning Board of Appeals (2013– 2016) • Eight years as Seekonk’s Building Inspector (2016–2024) Most notably, Neal’s lasting legacy is his dedication to the Seekonk Youth Soccer League. Neal’s son, Carl Abelson, submitted an email advocating for his father’s name to be associated with the soccer fields, highlighting Neal’s lifelong passion for the sport and his commitment to mentoring generations of youth players.
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In Carl’s words: “Neal was introduced to soccer through his son Carl in 1991 and quickly developed a passion for the sport. He began coaching around 1993, dedicating over 20 years to guiding youth teams in Seekonk, including the traveling Black Goose team, as both a coach and mentor. Neal’s involvement was driven by a desire to serve his community and positively influence young people. His legacy endures through the memories he created and the values he instilled in those he mentored.” To honor Neal’s legacy and his lifelong dedication to community service and youth development, the Seekonk Lions Club will host a recognition ceremony on Sunday, September 13, 2026, 5pm at the Cole Street fields. This event will officially dedicate the soccer fields in Neal Abelson’s name, celebrating his contributions and inspiring future generations.
Seekonk Lions Club Classic Car Show
The Seekonk Lions Club is gearing up for our classic car show on Saturday, September 13, 2026. Over the past two months, flyers and posts on local media have generated excitement for the event, which will be held at the Newman YMCA on Taunton Avenue in Seekonk. We have the music lined up with Bodee’s “Circle of Music” professional disc jockeys, and there will be food and drinks to enhance the car show experience. The Newman YMCA is providing the large parking lot for all the cars on display. There will be plenty of room to view and relax, and we hope for a beautiful day. Kristen Carlson, the new manager at the Newman YMCA, has offered to keep the facility open for tours if anyone is interested in becoming a member. Restrooms will also be available for your convenience. The trophies for the event have just arrived, and they are beautiful. To ensure a fair review of all entries, a team of “mystery” judges—comprising experienced critics of the sport and car enthusiasts—will be on hand to provide a fair assessment of the inaugural champions. Remember, this event is all for charity. Proceeds will go directly to the Doorways Seekonk Food Pantry. Representatives from Doorways will be there to collect non-perishable food items, which will directly support our neighbors in need. Entry is just $20 per car, or $10 if you bring a non-perishable food item. Families are welcome to join for $10, or just $5 with a food donation. Prizes will be awarded for the Best in Show (pre-1660 vehicles) and the Best Truck (post-1960 vehicles). If you have old glasses to donate, we’d love to help someone see clearly so bring them along with you. Whether you bring your vintage ride or simply come to enjoy the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone. The rain date is September 20th. Come be part of our inaugural event! Show off your ride, enjoy great music, and support a wonderful cause right here in Seekonk. We look forward to seeing you there! Paul Buckley – President Keith Rondeau – Event Chair Seekonk Lions Charitable Trust Inc. Seekonk Lions Club | Seekonk MA
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The Reporter September 2026
Apple Days Returns to Hornbine School Museum
Celebrate this fall the old‑fashioned way — with children-friendly games, fun activities, fresh cider and donuts, and a community yard sale at Hornbine School Museum’s APPLE DAYS SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4th, 2 – 4 PM! We kindly ask for a $5 donation per family attending. Yard Sale shoppers will be invited to suggest their own prices for items they wish to purchase. Those interested in selling may reserve a table for a $5 donation. To sign up for a yard sale table, please email hornbineschool@gmail.com.
Apple Days October 2025
ACTIVITIES: Visitors can enjoy corn husk doll making and a wide selection of old‑fashioned games, including Graces, ball‑in‑cup, memory matching, bean bag toss, and Hornbine Hoops. Additional activities include our new Hornbine puzzle, a scavenger hunt, coloring pages, maze and unscramble sheets, and the chance to write on slates or try an old‑fashioned ink‑and‑feather pen. REFRESHMENTS: We will serve apple cider (small cups for children and regular cups for adults) along with apple cider donuts. HORNBINE ITEMS FOR SALE: include our Hornbine magnets, Jacob’s Ladder, cup-n-ball and grab bags filled with a wooden top or yo‑yo, a pencil, and candy. VISIT HORNBINE SCHOOL MUSEUM on SEPTEMBER 13TH & 27TH FROM 2–4 PM to explore our special exhibit, “The 3 R’s: Road to Revolution in Rehoboth.” Discover local connections to key Revolutionary War figures, examine Colonial Currency, and enjoy a pictorial alphabet of Colonial America. Try your hand at signing our Declaration of Independence with a feather pen. Join in scavenger hunts for young visitors, and play our classic Old‑Fashioned Yard Games. HORNBINE SCHOOL ANNUAL NEWSLETTER: We’re proud to share our annual Hornbine School newsletter, available now at the Rehoboth Town Library and the Hornbine School. Come pick one up and see what’s new! VOLUNTEERS: The ongoing success of Hornbine School Museum depends on the generosity and efforts of a number of volunteers. If you enjoy history and teaching, consider emailing us at hornbineschool@ gmail.com to learn how you can join our team as a docent or classroom teacher. Contact us at HORNBINESCHOOL@ GMAIL.COM – Search for our WEBSITE by Googling HORNBINESCHOOL. You will also find us on FACEBOOK. The Hornbine School is located at 146 Hornbine Road, Rehoboth, MA
Charity Craft Fair
Vendors Wanted Saturday, October 17, 2026 10 am – 2 pm
The Seekonk Knights of Columbus will host their sixth annual charity craft fair on Saturday, October 17, 2026, from 10 am – 2 pm at 532 Arcade Ave., Seekonk, MA 02771. We will have 45 vendors on site. Free parking. Free admission. This is a fun event and sells out every year. Outdoor lots measure 15 ft. x 30 ft. which will accommodate a vendor’s vehicle and pop-up canopy for $30. Indoor tables are $30 each and include an 8 ft. table and chairs with set-up and breakdown assistance. Contact the Seekonk K of C as soon as possible at 508.336.7952 to reserve your space. For more information, visit us on Facebook. Rain date is Sunday, October 18, 2026.
September 2026 The Reporter
Rehoboth Lions Club Golf Tournament Saturday, Sept. 19th
The Rehoboth Lions will be sponsoring our 37th Golf tournament on Saturday, Sept. 19th with a shotgun start at 1PM. This year’s tournament will again be held at Swansea CC. which has been voted as the “Northeast 2022 Course of the Year” by the New England Golf Course Owners Association. The tournament will be limited to 18 foursomes, and it will be first come first serve. There will be cash prizes for a putting contest, a live auction for a 4-some group at two local golf courses (private course & Semi-private course, carts not included), as well as other great prizes. We’ve changed the format this year to a “Scramble” game in hopes to speed up play. The cost is $140 per person, and includes golf, cart, and hot sandwich lunch served at approx. 11:30 AM. Only cash and checks will be accepted. Golf Tournament Sponsorship opportunities: • $2000- Platinum-would offer complete sponsorship, which would include naming on all advertising, for example, “Rehoboth Lions Golf Tournament” Sponsored by---. Also there would be a large sign on the course with your Corporate Logo. Recognition at the dinner ceremony. In addition, a foursome would be included for the corporate sponsor. • $1000- Gold- Sponsor name and logo on 5 signs on the course; as well as the opportunity to offer company promotions during the event and recognition at the dinner. • $500- Silver would include 3 signs on the course with corporate logo, and additional advertising in our promotions, as well as the opportunity to offer company promotions during the event. Other contributions of lesser amounts would be gratefully accepted and acknowledged with a tee sign for each $100 contribution. Joe Nunes, Rehoboth Lions Golf Committee Chairman
SCCC Invites You to Join Open Rehearsals for Their Winter Concert!
Join us to sing St Cecilia Mass along with many other holiday favorites.
The South Coast Community Chorale (SCCC) will be hosting an open enrollment period on Wednesdays, September 2nd, 9th, and 16th, from 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm at St. Thomas More Church, 386 Luther Ave, Somerset, MA. We invite you to come and sing with us! SCCC will be preparing for their Winter Concert which will include St Cecilia Mass! Our other musical selections will include Joy to the World theme pieces at the beginning and end of the second half; Mary, Did You Know?; Do you Hear What I Hear?; This Christmas Tide; a White Christmas medley; Wrap Me Up; and a special Hanukkah selection. We invite you to come and sing with us and celebrate the holiday season through music! We will be performing two concerts on Saturday, December 12th, and Sunday, December 13th. We hope you’ll join us! There are no auditions to join. The only requirements are that you love to sing, have the ability to match pitch and blend with other choristers, attend rehearsals, pay reasonable dues, and purchase music. Singing with SCCC is a great opportunity to experience group singing and all of its benefits, gain exposure in the community, and make connections with other singers. Directed by Frank Wilhelm, the South Coast Community Chorale is a group of singers based out of Fall River, Massachusetts. Members come from Fall River and nearby communities including Somerset, Swansea, Dighton, Rehoboth, Seekonk, Westport, Dartmouth, New Bedford, Taunton, Raynham, and Middleboro. The group performs concerts each May and December for their spring and winter concert seasons. Past performances have included venues in Fall River, New Bedford, Westport, Taunton, and Swan-
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sea. In addition to their regular concert seasons, the Chorale also performs at community events and each year awards a scholarship to an area student who plans to pursue a career in the music field. For more information, please find us on Facebook or visit us online at sccchorale.com.
Women’s A Cappella Chorus Invites Female Singers To Participate In Holiday Show
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 13th 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 5th 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. continued on next page...
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The Reporter September 2026
“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 Fred Kingsbury.. “It’s important to note that barbershop harmony is often considered the ‘everyman’s a cappella,” says Kingsbury. “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 Fred Kingsbury. Harmony Heritage rehearses at 7:00 PM on Tuesdays at Epworth United Methodist Church in Pawtucket, RI. For more information, visit www.harmonyheritage.org .
Photo by Sue Unleashed Photography
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Rehoboth American Legion Post 302 Public Events
• Try our Fish & Chips or Specials of the week • Every Thursday 4:00 till 7:00 P.M. / Friday 4:00 – 7:30 PM & Saturdays with a Band ONLY 6:00 till 7:30 PM • Take Outs are welcome – call in your order in early for pickup at 508-252-9079 • Mondays Only - SLOPPY JOES $2.00 ea. 3-6 with a Drink • Tequila + Two Tacos every Tuesday 3-6 PM or $2.50 ea • Wild Wings Wednesday 3-6 PM or $1.00 per wing • Chew & Brew every Thursday 3-6 PM order a Pizza • “QUEEN OF HEARTS” drawing every Friday night at 8:00 PM • “PRIZE / CASH BINGO’s” 4th Sunday of every month @ 5:00 PM • 2nd Sunday of Every Month 7:30 am – 10:30 am All you can Eat Breakfast for only $12 / Bar Opens at 10:00 AM • “NEW POOL TABLE” Come and have some fun Events: https://www.facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/
Upcoming Events
• September 5th, 2026 - Saturday - 7:00-10:00 P.M., SECONDHAND SMOKE REVISED BAND Classic Rock – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME! Play our POOL TABLE https://open.spotify.com/artist/57RIFB8RMODxF0PXg6vVjT?si=%20HGPY_ GMWTAioT8epLo0GWg&nd=1 • September 11th, 2026 – Saturday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M., “Vinyl Frontier Band” with Live Music Entertainment playing Classical Rock Music – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Dancing & having a GREAT TIME! Play some Pool! https://www.facebook. com/Vinylfrontierband/ • September 12th, 2026 - Friday - 7:00-10:00 P.M., – Mike Higgins & The Dynamics - Live Music Entertainment playing Classic, Rock & Country - No Cover Charge! – Bar Food – Kitchens open – Fish & Chips - Check with the bar for the Specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, Dancing so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Mike and The Dynamics |Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ profile.php?id=100063173623981 • September 13th, 2026 – Sunday - 7:30 -10:30 A.M., American Legion’s Monthly Breakfast, Second Sunday of every month $12.00 donation - All you can Eat! Enjoy all the Food you can Eat! • September 18th, 2026 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M., – Rock-A-Blues Band with Classic Rock Music – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! https://www.rockablues.com • September 19th, 2026 - Saturday - 7:00-10:00 P.M.,– PO BOYS BAND – Classic Rock – No Cover Charge! – Food – Fish & Chips - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! • September 25th, 2026 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M., Sons of the American Legion’s Monthly Meat Raffle followed by Karaoke 8:00-11:00 P.M. – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Singing, Dancing & having a GREAT TIME! • September 25th, 2026 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M., – Live Karaoke performed by our own Devon’s Karaoke Entertainment, Come on in and sing a song or two – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME! • September 26th, 2026 – Saturday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M., On3 Entertainment, Classic Rock & Country – Classic Rock & County – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Shoot Some POOL • September 27th, 2026 – Sunday - 5:00 -8:00 P.M., Prize BINGO! American Legion Auxiliary, Fourth Sunday of every month $10.00 donation per 5 Games – Food – Drinks & having a GREAT TIME!
September 2026 The Reporter
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• OCTOBER 2nd, 2026 – SATURDAY - 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – PENDING • October 3rd, 2026 – Saturday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M., THE WILEY BROTHERS BAND – Classic Rock & County – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! • OCTOBER 9th, 2026 – 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – PENDING • OCTOBER 10th, 2026 – 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – PENDING • October 11th, 2026 – Sunday - 7:30 -10:30 A.M., American Legion’s Monthly Breakfast, Second Sunday of every month $12.00 donation - All you can Eat! Enjoy all the Food you can Eat!
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The Reporter September 2026
Seekonk Public Library
www.seekonkpl.org • library@seekonkpl.org • 508.336.8230
Seekonk ‘Scarecrow Fest’
Seekonk Public Library and Seekonk Parks & Recreation are excited to invite the community to participate in ‘Scarecrow Fest,’ a scarecrow-making event for fall 2026. The program is designed to bring the community together in a creative way while celebrating the fall season. To participate, starting September 5, individuals and families are invited to register to reserve a free at-home scarecrow building kit. Kits can be picked up starting September 19 and will contain stakes to build a basic frame as well as hay for stuffing. Individuals and families will provide their own clothing and personal touches to make their scarecrow truly unique. Completed scarecrows will be brought to Seekonk Library on Saturday, October 3rd, where they will be placed on display on the library’s front lawn for the community to view through the end of October. Throughout the month, the community will vote for their favorite scarecrows in three categories: Traditional, Humorous, and Artistic. “We are thrilled to offer this event for a third year as a way to engage the community in a hands-on, creative activity that celebrates the fall season,” said event organizers. “With categories like Traditional, Humorous, and Artistic, there’s a chance for everyone to showcase their creativity and have an enjoyable time. We’re looking forward to seeing the library lawn transformed into a display of local talent.” For more information about ‘Scarecrow Fest’ including rules for participation, please contact either Seekonk Library at library@
seekonkpl.org or 508-336-8230 or Seekonk Parks & Recreation at 508-336-8772 at parksandrecreation@seekonk-ma.gov. For a full program description and to register, visit seekonkpl.org…Calendar. The program is free, but supplies are limited. Seekonk Library is committed to enriching the community through diverse programs, resources, and events that foster learning, creativity, and connection. Seekonk Parks & Recreation strives to enhance the quality of life for all Seekonk residents by providing access to quality recreational programs, facilities, and events. In collaboration, the two departments are dedicated to offering opportunities that bring our community together.
Book Chat & Craft: Remarkably Bright Creatures Thursday, September 10 at 6 PM
Join us at Seekonk Public Library for a book chat and craft for the popular book Remarkably Bright Creatures on Thursday, September 10 at 6 PM. Whether you enjoyed the book or the movie, join us for a light discussion of this popular title along with a simple, handmade craft. No in-depth literary analysis required; come to relax, share your favorite parts of the story, and have some creative fun in good company. Space is limited; registration with a SAILS library card is required. Register in the Events Calendar at seekonkpl.org/events. For more information or help registering, visit www.seekonkpl. org, email library@seekonkpl.org, or call Adult Services at 508336-8230 x56130.
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September 2026 The Reporter
Cement Leaf Casting Workshop Friday, September 11 at 10 AM
Turn a simple leaf into a lasting piece of home and garden art. Instructor Michelle Danzer-Gries will teach you in the workshop Introduction to Cement Leaf Casting at Seekonk Public Library on Friday, September 11 at 10 AM. In this 90-minute program, you will learn the foundational techniques of casting concrete onto large, heavily veined leaves, such as hostas. By coating leaves in concrete, you will capture the intricate vein patterns and textures found in local plants, creating a unique decorative piece inspired by nature. No prior experience is needed. Space is limited; preregistration with a SAILS library card is required, one person per registration only. Register in the online Events Calendar at www. seekonkpl.org/events. For more information or help registering, call Adult Services at 508-336-8230 extension 56130 or email library@seekonkpl.org.
Protect Yourself from Online Scams Tuesday, September 15 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 provide an introduction to the most useful tools available to use on your mobile device or help getting started. Join us this month for Library Tech Class: Avoiding Scams on Tuesday, September 15 from 2-3:30 PM in the library’s Large Meeting Room. Do you want to know more about how you can protect yourself from online scams? This class is for you! Using tutorials from GetSetUp and/or LinkedIn, librarian Michelle Gario will lead you through guides so you can be informed and prepared for scammers. You are welcome to bring your device, but it is not necessary. 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
including brainstorming, writing prompts, and creating individual nature mandalas. Using these tools, we will explore boundaries and intentions in order to resist distractions. Please note the mandala you create is for practice and will not be taken home, but photographs are encouraged. Space is limited; pre-registration is required. Register in the library Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl. org/events or by calling Adult Services at 508-336-8230 extension 56130. For more event information, visit www.seekonkpl.org or email library@seekonkpl.org.
Friends of the Seekonk Public Library News
Thank you again for all who came to our last Big Book Sale. We appreciate the time you take to support the library programs with your purchase there and at our daily sales in the lobby. Our next Big Book Sale will be on November 7th from 9-3. We have sold out of most of the donations of puzzles that we have received. If you have some you would like to donate, you can bring them to the lobby to the volunteer there or leave them near the chairs in the lobby. We always need soft cover adult books. They’re great when going on vacation. Adult nonfiction especially published within the last ten years would be appreciated as well. Children’s books from birth through second grade are needed as well as high school leveled books. Graphic novels have become quite popular. All ages and levels are needed.
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Applique Workshop
Wednesdays, September 23 & 30 at 6 PM
Set aside some time for creativity this fall and join us at Seekonk Public Library for Autumn Mug Rug: Hand-Stitched Applique, a beginner-friendly, two-session workshop on Wednesdays, September 23 and 30 at 6:00 PM. Guided by instructor Sharon Snape, you’ll create a charming fall-themed mug rug—a small decorative mat perfect for holding a favorite mug, protecting surfaces, or adding a seasonal touch to your home. Along the way, you’ll learn simple hand-stitched appliqué techniques in a welcoming, slow-paced environment. No prior sewing experience is needed. Attendance at both sessions is required for this project. This event is sponsored by the Friends of the Seekonk Public Library. Space is limited. Pre-registration with a SAILS library card is required, with one person per registration. Register through the Library’s online Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events. For more information or help registering, call Adult Services at 508-336-8230 extension 56130 or email library@seekonkpl.org.
Re-centering from Distraction: Nature Mandala Workshop Thursday, October 1 at 5:30 PM
With the change of season and yet before the holiday season rush, we find the perfect time to take a cleansing breath for our own wellness. Join us to learn more in Re-centering: Nature Mandala Workshop on Thursday, October 1 at 5:30 PM at Seekonk Library. Certified Eco-Art Therapist Beth Adoette will lead us in exercises
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454 Winthrop Street • Rehoboth MA 508.252.4770 RehobothFamilyDental@gmail.com
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The Reporter September 2026
Harry Potter Trivial Pursuit
Teen Services
Thursday, September 17 at 3:00 PM
September Summer Reboot for Teens
Keep reading to see the updated dates and times for our rebooted programs!
404: Summer Programs Not Found…200: September Events Back Online
Unfortunately, some of our summer programs for tweens and teens crashed unexpectedly, but this September it’s time for “System Update: Teen Programs Restored!” Okay, enough silly computer puns—the point is, this September we’re reviving two of the exciting programs that were canceled during the summer. More details will be coming soon, so be sure to check out our website, sign up for the Teen email newsletter, and look out for the September edition of the Reporter for the latest information!
(Post-) End of Summer Escape Room Party for Tweens & Teens
Teen Advisory Board
Thursday, September 3 at 3:30 PM
Do you find yourself arguing that hippogriffs are cooler than dragons? Do you correct your friends when they mistake the Triwizard Tournament for the Quidditch Cup? Are you pretty sure you could have discovered the gillyweed solution if only you’d had the right book? If any of this sounds like more than Gobbledegook (Griphook’s native language, of course) to you, then come to Seekonk Public Library for the 4rd Annual Harry Potter Trivial Pursuit event for tweens and teens! We’ll split up into four teams to play the official Trivial Pursuit: World of Harry Potter Ultimate Edition and test our knowledge of all eight movies (sorry, it’s NOT based on the books!). Snacks will be provided. This event is free and open to tweens and teens in grades 6 through 12. Please register online at seekonkpl.org/events.
**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.
Thursday, September 24 at 3:00 PM
Riddles, ciphers, brain teasers--test your wits at this (post-)end of summer party for tweens and teens. In pairs or small groups, you’ll work together to solve your choice of mini-escape room puzzles from BreakoutEDU. Themes will range from the American Revolution, to Julius Caesar, botany, and more. Wrap up your summer at the library with a little code cracking, puzzle solving, and--of course-snacks and prizes! This event is free and open to tweens and teens in grades 6 through 12. Please register online at seekonkpl.org/events. For more information on these programs, call Adult Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email teens@seekonkpl.org
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September 2026 The Reporter
Youth Services
Preschool Storytime
Tuesday, September 8, 15, 29 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. Drop in.
Toddler Storytime
Wednesday, September 9, 16, 23, 30 10:00 AM
Ages 18-36 months. This weekly storytime is designed for children 18 – 36 months old. The storytime will include reading a few books, followed by music, activities, movement, and yes, even bubbles! Drop in.
Babies Storytime
Thursday, September 10, 17, 24 10:00 AM
Ages 0-18 Months. Babies, Books, and Belly Time. 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, fingerplays, and movement activities. After storytime, stay for a relaxed play session. Babies can enjoy belly time, which is great for building neck and shoulder strength, crawling through a tunnel, exploring toys, and looking through board books. Drop in.
Homeschool Hangout
Friday, September 11 1:00 PM
All ages Join us in the meeting room to meet, play, and learn with other homeschool families! Activities and games for kids of all ages will be provided. Educators will have the opportunity ask reference questions or share resources with other home educators. Drop in.
Build it Crew!
Tuesday, September 15 4:00 PM
Grades 1-5 Build it crew is a Lego challenge and free play for grades 1-5. Each month, patrons will participate in a Lego build challenge. During the first 15 minutes, each participant will receive a Lego box. They will then have 3 minutes to create something that resembles a specific item or theme. Parents will judge whether the creation resembles the assigned item. For September the theme will be Things That Go. Register. OVER 40 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
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We welcome small businesses and homeowners.
RISPCA Storytime
Tuesday, September 22 10:00 AM
Ages 2-5 Join us for a special storytime with Heather from the Rhode Island Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. We will learn about the SPCA, read a story, meet and animal ambassador, and do a craft! Best for ages 2-5, ages 0-5 welcome. Register.
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Crafternoon
Tuesday, September 22 1:30 PM
All ages. Early release day, and the children’s room has a craft for you! Make your very own DINOSAUR. Supplies provided. Drop in.
Sensory Play
Saturday, September 26 10:00 AM
All ages. Children and their caregivers are invited to explore a variety of toys and sensory-rich materials designed to encourage play and support the development of motor skills, memory, communication, and problem-solving. For children of all abilities in a fun, friendly, quiet environment. Drop in.
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The Reporter September 2026
September 2026 The Reporter
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News and Notes from Blanding Library All about Mushrooms Sept 8
Come to the “Mushroom Chat and Chomp” on Tues. Sept. 8 at 6:30 to learn all about mushrooms. The Blanding Library in partnership with the Rehoboth Land Trust welcome the Mushroom Hunting Society in presenting this program. Learn all about the when, where, and how of responsible mushroom foraging. This will be followed by a cooking demonstration on how to prepare your findings. Please register for this event by sending your name, phone, and number of people in your group to info@rehobothlandtrust.net
“Here in New England” Oct. 3
The Blanding is pleased to present Mel Allen, former editor of Yankee Magazine and author of “Here in New England” on Sat. Oct. 3 at 1 pm. Mel will regale us with unforgettable stories of people, places, and memories that connect us all. Not to be missed! Free and open to all.
Annual Book Sale Coming Up
Mark your calendars for our annual used book sale and raffle in early October, sponsored by the Friends of the Blanding Library. Here are the hours: • Friday Oct. 9, 5-7, Friends preview sale. New members can sign up at that time • Saturday Oct. 10, from 10-3 General sale • Sunday Oct. 11, from 12-3 Clearance sale with books $10 a bag. Bags will be provided by the Friends The Friends are still accepting donations of books, games, puzzles, DVDs, and CDs up until Saturday, Sept. 19. Please drop your donations off inside the library during regular business hours.
Library Card Sign-Up Month
September is library card signup month. The Blanding is encouraging local residents (5yrs and older) who do not yet own a library card to visit the Rehoboth Blanding Library and apply for their card free! Find out all the things your library has to offer.
Tot Time and Story Hours
We have new days for Tot Time and Story Hour starting this fall. Tot Time with Miss Joyce will be on Thursdays at 10:30am, beginning Sept. 10 and Story Hours for children ages 3 and up will be on Mondays at 10:30 starting Sept. 13.
You can find more information and news about programs and events at the library on https://rehobothantiquarian.org/blandinglibrary/ You can always find more about the Blanding Library activities on Facebook or call the library at 508-252-4236. The Blanding Public Library, at 124 Bay State Rd., Rehoboth is open Monday through Thursday from 10 to 8, and on Friday and Saturdays from 10 to 4. Closed Sundays and holidays, including Mon. Oct. 12.
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Legos Returns
LEGOS returns Sat., Sept. 12 from 11am to 2pm. We’ll supply the LEGOS; you supply the imagination. All ages are welcome. No registration needed.
Yoga & Stories Sept. 8
Yoga instructor Rebecca Mele will lead this program on Tues. Sept. 8 at 10:30. Each child will be guided (with their adult), to develop strength, coordination and balance using breath, musical yoga songs, and art activities. Miss Jocelyn from PACE will offer stories. This program is for children from infants to age 5. Family members are welcome. Registration is required. Call 508-252-4236. Please bring a yoga mat and a water bottle (small carpet squares are available)
Debbie’s
Ongoing Programs
• The Blanding has two book groups, one that meets on the first Monday evening of the month at 7pm and the other on the second Wednesday at 3pm. Contact the library for more information. • Knit Night starts up again on September 17 at 6:30pm and meets every third Thursday of the month. No sign up necessary, stop in and join the group! • Hank Coleman’s history discussion group will begin meeting again on Wednesday mornings later this month. Contact hjcoleman@ comcast.net for more information.
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The Reporter September 2026
School News Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School Celebrates 50 AP Scholars for Outstanding Academic Achievement The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District is proud to recognize 50 Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School students who have earned College Board AP Scholar Awards in recognition of their exceptional performance on Advanced Placement (AP) Exams. The students earned recognition as AP Scholars, AP Scholars with Honor, or AP Scholars with Distinction, demonstrating not only strong academic achievement, but also the dedication, perseverance, and willingness to challenge themselves that define a futureready learner in Dighton-Rehoboth.
“Having 50 students earn AP Scholar recognition is another powerful example of the student achievement we are seeing at DRRHS,” said Superintendent Bill Runey. “Our educators empower students to take on rigorous opportunities, while our expanding academic, Early College, CTE, and extracurricular offerings help us deliver on our commitment to having something for everyone. These students make all of us proud to say #WeAreDR.” This recognition reflects the district’s commitment to its DRiving Toward 2030 Strategic Plan, which centers on empowering educators, igniting curiosity in students, and preparing every learner for the future. “These students have distinguished themselves by choosing to take on some of the most rigorous academic opportunities we offer and then excelling at the highest level,” said DRRHS Principal Dustin Demers. “We are incredibly proud of their achievement, and equally proud of the teachers who challenge, support, and inspire our students every day. Fifty AP Scholars is a tremendous accomplishment for our students and for the entire DRRHS community.” Advanced Placement courses give students the opportunity to engage in rigorous, college-level coursework while still in high school, representing one of the many ways DRRHS provides opportunities for students to challenge themselves, explore their interests, and prepare for life beyond graduation. Through Early College courses, Career & Technical Education pathways, and many other future-ready learning opportunities, students can earn college credit, explore high-demand careers, develop hands-on skills, and connect classroom learning to their goals for life after graduation. The AP Scholars recognized represent a range of academic interests and experiences, yet share a common commitment to excellence and growth. The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District congratulates all 50 AP Scholars and recognizes the teachers, families, and school community members who helped support their success. Their achievement is a reminder of what is possible when students are encouraged to ignite their curiosity, embrace challenge, and take ownership of their future, which is the work at the heart of DRiving Toward 2030.
Together, #We are DR!
AP Scholar: Earned by students who scored 3 or higher on three or more AP Exams: Leila Almeida, Tessa Charlonne, Cullen Craffey, Nolan Darowski, Maura Duczkowski, Caleigh Duff-Petersen, Walter Ellis, Cole Gifford, Catherine Holahan, Cameron Johnson, Cailee Leonard, Sara
September 2026 The Reporter Marsella, Amanda Merriam, Ava Morgado, Lily Ouelette, Gia Papa, Alexis Pettinato, Isabella Pettine, Ava Randall, Lena Small, Andrew Sunderland, Clifford Swain, Madison Williams, Isabelle Williamson AP Scholar with Honor: Awarded to students who earned an average score of 3.25 or higher on all AP Exams and scored 3 or higher on four or more AP Exams, or scored 3 or higher on five or more AP Exams: Charlie Adams, Kaitlyn Arguin, Harrison Baglini, Isabella Bouchard, Laura Cruz, Elaina DaSilva, Maggie Kazanjian, Riley Kazanjian, Maryeileen Kelleher, Julia Mello, Samuel Pickford, Nicholas Rapoza, Mia Saviolakis, Seamus Sullivan, Aubrey Sylvia\, Christian Zankul Rebecca Zankul AP Scholar with Distinction: Awarded to students who earned an average score of 3.5 or higher on all AP Exams and scored 3 or higher on five or more AP Exams: Dario Conceicao, Avery Grage, Dylan Howland, Reese Jefferson, Patrick McCann, Zachary McCann, Logan Menezes, Jalissa Ralphino, Gabriella Rodrigues
Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Committee Extends Superintendent Bill Runey’s Contract Through 2031 Following Exemplary Evaluation
Following an exemplary annual performance evaluation and a year marked by significant district achievements and continued improvement in student outcomes, the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Committee has unanimously approved a contract extension for Superintendent Bill Runey, keeping him at the helm of DightonRehoboth Schools through June 30, 2031. The extension reflects the School Committee’s confidence in Runey’s leadership and its recognition of the progress achieved under his direction. Through a sustained focus on instructional improvement, expanded student opportunities, data-informed decision-making, and strong professional collaboration, his leadership has helped translate the district’s DRiving Toward 2030 strategic vision into stronger experiences and outcomes for students. Earlier this year, Runey was also recognized nationally as one of Education Insider Magazine’s Top Fifteen School District Superintendents of 2026, further highlighting Dighton-Rehoboth’s growing reputation for innovation and excellence. Quote from School Committee Chairperson Mr. Christopher Andrade: “The Exemplary evaluation reflects Bill’s strong and consistent leadership of the district. We have seen gains in student outcomes, expanded opportunities, and a positive culture throughout Dighton-Rehoboth, as well as increased recognition of the work taking place here. Extending his contract through 2031 reflects the Committee’s confidence in continuing the progress of our DRiving Toward 2030 strategic plan.” Using the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s superintendent evaluation framework, the School Committee awarded Runey an overall Exemplary rating in his fourth year as superintendent. The evaluation recognized exceptional performance across district leadership, operations, community engagement, and professional culture. Runey met three of his four superintendent performance goals and exceeded one, while earning Exemplary ratings in Management and Operations, Family and Community Engagement, and Professional Culture. The Committee highlighted several accomplishments from the past year, including: • Implementing the Teaching and Learning Dashboard to strengthen instructional consistency and provide educators with meaningful, data-driven tools to support student success. • Increasing instructional visibility through regular classroom walkthroughs and expanded communication showcasing teaching and
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learning throughout the schools. • Strengthening fiscal stewardship by establishing a grant-writing program that has secured more than $1 million in competitive funding, including a $1.5 million Career Technical Education Expansion Grant. • Leading the Massachusetts School Building Authority feasibility study for Dighton Elementary School through a transparent, collaborative, and student-centered process. • Building strong relationships with families and community partners through consistent communication, accessibility, and responsiveness. • Fostering a professional culture rooted in collaboration, trust, continuous learning, and high expectations for students and staff. In its narrative evaluation, the School Committee wrote that Runey “has been great at trying to move the district forward, improving the image and capability of the district from the previous decade before he took over,” adding that his leadership has strengthened instructional systems, improved fiscal stewardship, deepened community trust, and fostered a #WeAreDR culture grounded in collaboration and continuous learning. Quote from Bill Runey, Superintendent of Schools: “Leadership is ultimately about leaving an organization stronger than you found it. I’m proud of the progress we have made together—from stronger student outcomes and expanded opportunities to a more positive culture, renewed pride in our schools, and strengthened confidence in the direction of our #WeAreDR community. I’m grateful for the School Committee’s confidence and excited that this extension gives us the opportunity to continue building on that progress.” Since becoming superintendent in 2022, Runey has led a period of sustained growth that has produced expanded opportunities and improved outcomes for Dighton-Rehoboth students. Under his leadership, the district has expanded Early College participation, developed new Career and Technical Education pathways, strengthened instructional practices and the use of student data, increased competitive grant funding, enhanced communication, and built deeper partnerships with families and the broader community. The contract extension through June 30, 2031, reflects the School Committee’s confidence that Runey’s leadership will continue to advance student achievement and ensure that the district’s strategic priorities result in meaningful, measurable benefits for learners. Dighton-Rehoboth remains committed to empowering educators, igniting meaningful learning, and shaping future-ready learners.
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The Reporter September 2026
Term 3 Honor Roll Beckwith Middle School 2026 End of Year
Grade 8
High Honors: Arrigo, Clara; Avery-Pham, Andrew; Bourgoin, Benjamin; Cairone, Crescenzo; Manuel Daza-Portillo; Dietrich, Kellen; DiPalma, Alaina; Frissell, Macy; Holowka, Zoya; Johnson, Mackenna; Kinniburgh, Lyla Mae; Kreizinger, Audrey; Laudati, Lucas; Mendoza, Jason Nguyenle, Jordan; Polychronis, Abagail; Ramos, Mitchell; Regan, Natalia; Ryder, Nicholas Scamacca, Finn; Soares, Morgan; Tavares, Veda; Trexler, Amelia; Turner, Amaya Honor Roll: Amaral, Charlotte; Benoit, Alexander; Cameron, Julia; Choquette, Amelia; Comins, James Correia, Alicia; Duarte, Kassidy; Fernandes, Ellie; Franco, Juliana; Galkin, Hadley; Grant, Korey Guthrie, Hayleigh; Johnson, Madison; Lingard, Jade; McCollum, Kyra; McWain, Amelia; Moniz, Chase; Oliver, Emma; Phillips, Shyann; Prevost, Ellie; Quin, Alexander; Robbio, Zachary Santos, Maeve; Steinkamp, Jordan; Thompson, Robert; Walczak, Raegan
Grade 7
High Honors: Aga, Mudassir; Benson, Raina; Bernardo, Alyssa; Botelho, Ethan; Brown, Audrey; Carrasquillo, Trenton; Carroll, Nora; Chianese, Anthony; Cordeiro, Benjamin; Ferreira, Avery; Fischman, Noah; Fontaine, Camden; Garcia, Levi; Greene, Milla; Jeffrey, Liam; Kazanjian, Megan; Kent, David; Landry, Ava; Levinson, Connor; Lopes, Alayah; Magee, Lila; Martins, Michael; Nepini, Malia; Ollivierre, Selene; Pento, Brooke; Petersen, Christian; Peterson, Audrey;
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Pires, Connor; Ramos, Maddix; Read, Caizzi; Rodrigues, Jacob; Ruhle, Owen; Salcone, Luca; Santiago, Eleanor; Silva, Calvin; Soares, Julian;Wood, Richard Honor Roll: Alegria, Soren; Angelini, Mason; Auricchio, Ethan; Bairos, Aubree; Benevides, Ava; Bentley, Madeleine; Bergeron, Julie; Brainsky, Joseph; Carson, Allison; Cordeiro, Nathan; DaPonte, Hope; Enes, Liam; Estes, Zayden; Farias, Adriana; Feliciano, Xavier; Furtado, Bruce; Guite, Lucas; Lesniak, Lucas; Levesque, Stella; Lewandoski, Olivia; Lopes, Farrah; Louis, Darnette; Malaguti, Paisley; Medeiros, Aubrey; Morrison, Michaela; Mourao, Madilyn; Murphy, Colby; O’Neill, Connor; Resendes, Hailey; Rodrigues, Blake; Roth, Andrew; Teodoro, Stella; Thibeault, Nicholas; Thomas, Christina; Vickey, Rylie; Warner, Cameryn
Grade 6
High Honors: Antonio, Albert; Assi, George; Beagan, Sean; Beausoleil, Ruby; Bodge, Max; Boulay, Hannah; Braga, Adrian; Carcieril; Clement, Chloe; Crowshaw, Eliot; Cruz, Mireya; Dagnese, Dax; Darling, Lucas; DeGroot, Camdyn; Deus, Avaleigh; Dupuis, Abigail; Fernandes, Abigail; Hathaway, Colton; Hess, Elliot; Johnson, Emily; Johnson, Kai; Lay, Owen; Luedke, Logan; MelloSattler, Alina; Middleton, Courtney; Perry, Ella; Perry, Gianna; Rosa, Jaxson; Sherman, Avery; Silva, Eliana; Sousa, William; Tavares, Clive; Thompson, Gabriella; Titcomb, Hailey; Towner, Liam; Verma, Anika; Warren, Emily; White, Olivia; Wright, Emmett; Zapata, Jason Honor Roll: Assi, Alexis; Avila, Callie; Bernardo, Emma; Bernardo, Lucas; Binetti, Jolie; Bonilla, Ryder; Boylan, Owen; Bradshaw, Nathan; Cabral, Rachel; Cadorette, Zachary; Campbell, Quinn; Carey, Dean; Chaput, Evan; Cloutier, Harper; Costa, Charlotte; D’Ambrosio, Decker; DaRosa, Amelia; DiFiore-Greenleaf, Zachery; DiPalma, Isla; DoCouto, Dylan; DuVally, Ciana; Fogel, Drew; Fuoco, Alexis; Greene, Graham; Guthrie, Ryleigh; Harris, Charlotte; Jodoin-Blais, Hadley; Kaszyk, Austin; Leffort, Olivia; Lopes, Kenzie; MacKenzie, Ophelia; McVicker, Bria; Medeiros, Amelia; Middleton, Blake; Mirra, Allison; Moran, Vanessa; Pacheco, Audrianna; Perry, Layla; Pimento, Olivia; Prachanronarong-Ellick, Alexandra; Rabelo, Lucas; Raphino, Jaliyah; Rodrigues, Brayden; Scanlon, Ainsley; Seal, Jackson; Whitten, Landon
Grade 5
High Honors: Barlow, Nathan; Boswinkel, Ellie; Camara, Calliope; Carrasquillo, Veronica; Carter, James; Connery, William; Coyne, Emma; DaSilva, Violet; Gentile, Carter; Griego, Madison; Hanson, Liam; Hilton, Brody; Jacovides, Gino; Joubert, Samuel; Lambert, Eliana; Levinson, Hannah; Magee, Dillon; Mattson, Haley; Miller, Cormac; Pento, Riley; Regan, Hannah; Roberts, Alexander; Sidok, Mckenzie; Sine, Abigail; Steinkamp, Tyler; Swicker, Eve; Tavares, Vincent; Tetreault, Easton; Whitten, Chayce; Winther, Morgan Honor Roll: Beaudette, Brooklyn; Beaulieu, Mila; Bradshaw, Elizabeth; Breen, Liam; Cai, Shuya; Cairone, Devlin; Cameron, Jace; Chagnon, Ella; Chianese, Hunter; Colon, Eli; Croteau, Scottlyn; DaSilva, Antonio; DeJesus, Soraia; DiRenzo, Blake; Dugan, Jaxson; Elkins, Kaya; Ellin, April; Faiola, Brandon; Ferreira, Clayton; Fitzgerald, Vivienne; Freeborn, Brady; Furtado, Isabella; Gill, Jase; Griego, Myles; Guite, Liana; Hayden, Rylen; Ishfaq, Izma; Jacques, Logan; Kemp Marcoux, Lynora; Landry, Hartley; Lefebvre, Nora; Lundquist, Kristofer; Marcotte, Addison; Medeiros, Benjamin; Mega, Olivia; Moniz, Colton; Neto, Aliana; O’Hare, Skylyn; Oldmixon, Sean; Pearson, Bryce; Potter, Logan; Quin, Andrew; Read, Riley; Remine, Sophia; Richards, Emerie; Salcone, Alec; Shapiro, Michael; Thibeault, Brielle; Tomaiolo, Gabriella; Walczak, Bryce; Walsh, Tyler; Warner, Harper; Weremay, Cameron; Young, Jewel
September 2026 The Reporter
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Back to School The Wheeler School
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.
Wheeler is where N-12 students discover, create, and excel. excel.
A Better Beginning at Twin Oaks Farm Learning Center
For more than three decades, Twin Oaks Farm Learning Center in Rehoboth has offered children something increasingly special — a place where learning extends far beyond the classroom. Founded in 1991, Twin Oaks combines early childhood education with the experiences of growing up in a country environment. Curious to learn more about Wheeler? Nature trails, gardens and farm activities give children opportunities to explore the world around them while building the academic, social Join us on Oct. 17 for our Open House! and emotional skills they’ll carry into school and beyond. Following the Reggio Emilia approach, Twin Oaks encourages children to learn by doing — exploring, asking questions, making wheelerschool.org/events choices, solving problems and discovering answers for themselves. A typical day might include art, music, math, science, reading, theater, construction or cooking. Outdoors, children can explore different habitats, help in the flower and vegetable gardens and participate in farm activities. Twin Oaks serves children from infancy through kindergarten, with intentionally small 2026-2027 Full Day Year-Round groups that allow for individual attention. Its programs grow along with each child, Kindergarten & Pre-School introducing increasingly advanced academic and STEAM experiences while fostering After School Program Available independence, cooperation, confidence, Open 7am-5:30pm communication and curiosity. Smaller Class • Core curriculum tailored per child For children preparing for public school, PLUS Extra-curriculars such as: Music, the Kindergarten program combines reading, writing, math and STEAM with the social Foreign Languages, Culinary, Yoga, Dance, Karate skills and independence needed for that important next step. The result is an educational experience that feels like more than simply going to Looking for Infant / Toddler / Pre-K EEC Certified Teachers school — it’s the kind of childhood parents Small classes, country setting, college opportunities, dental and vision insurance, hope their children will remember. retirement plans. Curriculum planning and professional support. Twin Oaks Farm Learning Center is We are dedicated to giving children “A BETTER BEGINNING.” located at 127 Tremont Street, Rehoboth and is open Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–5:30 p.m. To learn more or schedule a tour, call 508-252-5522.
Twin Oaks Farm Learning Center Now Enrolling
Be Part of a Winning Teaching Team
127 Tremont Street, Rehoboth MA ~ 508.252.5522
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The Reporter September 2026
Reach Higher at Bishop Feehan
There’s a multitude of reasons why more than 1,000 students from 70 different cities and towns (and three states!) make their way to Bishop Feehan High School each year. And those reasons are even more compelling when that school is right next door to Seekonk and Rehoboth in Attleboro. In an increasingly complex world, Bishop Feehan stays rooted in time-tested tradition, while always evolving its programs and facilities to ensure its students are future-ready. Time-tested? That’s the core of Catholic education – built on lasting values, high expectations and a belief that all students are at their best when asked to live up to those expectations. At Bishop Feehan, people care— students, dedicated faculty and staff. Students care about doing well in school, serving others in need, and showing up for their classmates. Teachers stay late because they’re invested in their student’s success. It’s an environment where everyone is all in—supporting one another, celebrating one another, and radiating Shamrock pride. ”We never expected our son would choose Feehan,” recalls Meg Butler, mom of two Feehan students. “But then we attended the Accepted Students Night, and everything changed. When the principal promised that our children would be “noticed, named and known”, I knew Feehan was different. It wasn’t just about academics—it was about knowing each student as an individual and helping them become the best version of themselves.” While all that has been taking shape over decades, something especially unique has been blooming in recent years. More than $30 million in campus investments have transformed the student experience, with brand new and renovated spaces for the arts, innovation (robotics, engineering, e-gaming and athletics. New this fall is an entirely new student dining commons, creating another vibrant space for students to gather, connect and build community.
OPEN HOUSE
OPEN HOUSE November 1 | 1:00 pm
REACH HIGHER
At Bishop Feehan, students embrace challenges, discover their gifts, and pursue their purpose. Rigorous academics, vibrant faith, a close-knit community, and high expectations grounded in mercy help every student grow and thrive. Learn more at BishopFeehan.com/GettoKnowUs
September 2026 The Reporter At the same time, Feehan’s Division 1 athletic teams and thriving arts programs have been earning state and national honors at an unprecedented rate. And all of this - the caring community, the Mercy values, the new facilities, and achievements – is designed to give every student the opportunity to find their place and thrive. That’s perhaps the most important message about Feehan. Athletes, artists, inventors, explorers—students with varied interests each find their place, where they discover abundant opportunities to pursue their passions and cultivate their unique gifts. Students at every academic level are challenged, supported, and encouraged to reach their full potential. Careful course placement, numerous options for accelerated studies, encouraging teachers, and dedicated learning supports inspire students of all abilities to achieve their individual best. At the heart of the Feehan story is the school’s dedication to financial accessibility. Yes, tuition at a private school is an investment, but Feehan is focused on keeping tuition achievable (lowest tuition of any private school in the region) and this year will provide more than $1.7 million of financial aid. “With the support of our worldwide alumni network, we work hard to make sure that the families who belong at Feehan can make Feehan possible,” says Feehan President Tim Sullivan. “It’s a partnership in every sense of the word – between our school and the parents who desire the very best in Catholic education for their children.” This is the time of year to explore Feehan, a full look with no commitment. Attend our Open House on Sunday, November 1st at 1pm to meet our community and learn more. Grounded in Gospel values, Feehan graduates understand that the world—and life—is bigger than themselves. Their hearts are set “on things above” as they seek to serve others with mercy and kindness. Having been held to high standards and challenged to grow throughout their years at Feehan, they become capable, hard-working, and collaborative adults, committed to excellence and a greater purpose. Humble yet confident, Feehan graduates are faith-filled citizens of the highest caliber.
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environment. Our team of instructors are motivated by their love of music and the passion to transfer their knowledge and skills to students so their creativity and talent can shine. Your student will play a quality acoustic piano that is tuned regularly for optimum sound. We feature a dedicated performance space with a concert grand piano and offer several recital opportunities each year with varying themes. In October of 2025 we created a “Not so scary Haunted House” with students playing seasonal music in each of our rooms. The proceeds from this event were donated to Rawkstars, a non profit organization that helps children in financial need afford music lessons. We are proud to be founding members of The Royal Conservatory of Music and an adjudication center for The American College of Musicians, National Piano Guild. As a local family owned business since 2009, The Piano Key strives to meet the needs of each student, ensuring they have a rewarding and successful experience. Private piano lessons for ages 1 1/2 and older are offered Monday through Saturday at a variety of convenient times. Our location on Route 44 in Seekonk is easily accessible from Dighton, Rehoboth, Attleboro, Pawtucket, East Providence, Riverside, and Barrington. Call now to schedule a studio tour during our Open House and boost your student’s learning skills this fall (508)336-3656.
Lima’s Tae Kwon Do:
The Source for Premier Kids Martial Arts Training
Building confidence and self-esteem was never so easy! Here at Lima’s Tae Kwon Do we specialize in group and private training to teach you and your family the techniques that will help you grow and keep you safe. Whether you want to get in great shape, learn to defend yourself and your loved ones, or you just want to break your normal routine; we have a program for you. We teach people of all backgrounds, skill levels, shapes and sizes. Our system helps you to defend yourself if you are in a violent situation of any kind. Continued on next page ...
It’s a great time to be a Shamrock. We can’t wait to show you why.
The Piano Key
One Simple Activity to Boost Your Student’s Learning Skills
The physical and mental benefits of playing music are well recognized, but did you know that there’s a correlation between music study and higher academic performance? Piano study in particular strengthens memory, boosts cognitive function, improves language skills, and activates the same brain functions used in math. Piano playing sharpens fine motor skills, improves hand-eye coordination, improves memory, and increases self esteem. Regular practice makes structural changes to the brain improving cognitive abilities such as attention and executive functioning. Piano lessons like those offered at The Piano Key offer a fun outlet for students seeking escape, stress reduction, and creative expression, all while sharpening their intellect. At The Piano Key, students receive outstanding quality instruction from experienced caring instructors in a comfortable
Back to School Special!
The best martial arts school around!
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The Reporter September 2026
We are experts in children/adult training that builds confidence and overall awareness. Want to be efficient in your life? Then train with us and get your self-defense, fitness and fun so you make the most of your time!
Kids Are Crazy About Our Martial Arts Program!
At Lima’s Tae Kwon-Do in Taunton MA, your child will have fun learning something new. They will learn essential life skills and build character, PLUS get in the best physical, mental and spiritual shape of their life! Alongside strong martial arts lessons taught by our excellent Kids Karate instructors, every student will learn the importance of: Self Control and Self Discipline, Self Defense Maneuvers, Manners and Respect for Themselves and Others, Goal Setting and Achieving Skills, Balance and Fitness, Coordination and Focus. Every one of Lima’s Tae Kwon-Do’s Kids Karate students will make friends and learn important aspects from our unique martial arts curriculum.
We Offer 3 Distinct Age-Appropriate Groups:
• Little Dragons (Ages 3 to 4 yrs) - Little Dragons classes promote a positive attitude and taught by instructors who teach discipline and good behavior. • The Rangers (Ages 5 & 6) - Our Rangers program will teach students more traditional Tae Kwon-Do in a fun and effective way. • Young Adult (Ages 7 to 12) - Our Young Adult class is based around teaching your child to be a leader in today’s world.
Teach Your Child to DO and BE their BEST!
Our kid-qualified instructors know how to connect with each child on a personal level. Even with large classes, students get the individual attention and immediate feedback they deserve. We will help your son or daughter to condition their mind, as well as their body and spirit. Using positive coaching and goal-oriented achievement training, your child will set realistic goals and work hard to achieve academic excellence and Karate success.
Providence Country Day School
Providence Country Day School (PCD) is an independent, coeducational day school serving students from PreKindergarten through Grade 12. Located just minutes from Providence, PCD offers a challenging academic program within a supportive, studentcentered community where young people are encouraged to pursue their full range of interests and abilities. At PCD, academic rigor is paired with a deep commitment to student well-being. Students are challenged to think critically, communicate effectively, and engage meaningfully with their studies, while learning in an environment designed to support confidence, balance, and long-term success. Small class sizes and strong relationships with faculty ensure that each student is known, supported, and appropriately challenged. The curriculum is designed to provide both depth and flexibility. Students build strong foundations in core academic disciplines while also exploring interests in the arts, athletics, and leadership. Rather than requiring early specialization, PCD encourages broad participation. Students are able to take advanced courses, perform on stage, compete on athletic teams, and take on leadership roles— all within a schedule and culture that makes this balance possible. This breadth of opportunity is a defining feature of the PCD experience. Students are not limited to a single path or identity; instead, they are encouraged to discover new interests and develop a wide range of skills. Whether a student is an aspiring scientist, artist, athlete, or entrepreneur—or all of the above—PCD provides the structure and support to pursue those interests fully. Equally important is the school’s emphasis on community and belonging. Teachers take the time to understand how each student learns best, offering individualized support that helps students grow both academically and personally. Advising, student support services, and a strong culture of collaboration ensure that students feel connected and supported throughout their time at the school.
September 2026 The Reporter PCD’s commitment to student well-being extends beyond the classroom. The school prioritizes mental and physical health, recognizing that students do their best work when they feel balanced and supported. This approach creates an environment where students are encouraged to take risks, try new things, and develop resilience—without the excessive pressure that can limit growth and curiosity. Graduates of Providence Country Day leave well prepared for college and beyond. More importantly, they leave with a strong sense of who they are, how they learn, and how they can contribute meaningfully to their communities. For families seeking a school that combines high academic expectations with a supportive, balanced environment, Providence Country Day offers a distinctive and compelling educational experience. providencecountryday.org
St. Mary Academy – Bay View
St. Mary Academy – Bay View is an independent, Catholic, all-girls school serving students from Pre-K through Grade 12 in Riverside, Rhode Island. Founded in 1874 by the Sisters of Mercy, Bay View has spent more than 150 years educating and empowering young women to discover their voices, pursue their passions, and lead with confidence and purpose. From its earliest days, Bay View has responded boldly to the needs of its time. Inspired by Catherine McAuley and the trailblazing spirit of the Sisters of Mercy, the Academy was built on a belief in the transformative power of education and the potential of young women. That pioneering spirit continues to shape the Bay View experience today. As an all-girls school, Bay View creates an environment intentionally designed for girls to learn, grow, lead, and thrive. Students are encouraged to ask meaningful questions, take intellectual risks, explore new interests, and see themselves as capable leaders. From a young student discovering the confidence to raise her hand to a senior preparing for college and life beyond Bay View, each student is known, challenged, and supported throughout her journey. Bay View pairs rigorous academics with opportunities across the arts, athletics, leadership, service, campus ministry, global experiences, and co-curricular programs. Students develop not only the knowledge necessary for future success, but also the creativity, resilience, compassion, and confidence to navigate an increasingly complex world. Central to the Bay View experience is a strong sense of sisterhood. Students learn alongside peers who challenge, encourage, and celebrate one another while being supported by faculty and staff who recognize their individual strengths and potential. Rooted in the Mercy tradition, students are called to broaden their perspectives, act with integrity, serve others, and use their voices and talents to create meaningful change. Today, Bay View’s enduring belief in the potential of young women is captured in a simple promise: At Bay View, She Can.
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She can lead. She can create. She can inspire. She can succeed. She can discover her voice, challenge expectations, find her purpose, and imagine possibilities she may not yet see for herself. For more than 150 years, generations of Bay View women have carried that confidence into colleges, careers, communities, and lives of purpose. As the Academy looks toward its next chapter, Bay View remains committed to creating a place where every student can discover who she is, who she wants to become, and just how much she can accomplish.
At Bay View, She Can.
Crew Cuts Hair Care
As the back-to-school season approaches, now is the perfect time to schedule a fresh new look at Crew Cuts. Serving men, women, and children, Crew Cuts is a full-service salon offering professional styling for the entire family in a welcoming, friendly atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a simple trim, vibrant color, highlights, perms, hair straightening, braiding, or an elegant up-do for a special occasion, the experienced stylists are ready to help you achieve your ideal look. The salon also provides beard trims and facial waxing services, including eyebrows, lips, and chins, making it a convenient one-stop destination for personal grooming. Appointments are preferred, especially during the busy backto-school season, so booking early is encouraged to secure your preferred date and time. Walk-ins are welcome based on stylist availability. Let Crew Cuts help your family look and feel their best for the new school year and beyond.
She can... discover. inspire. create.
At BayView,
she can.
All Girls. Mercy Catholic. PreK to Grade 12. Learn more at
www.bayviewacademy.org
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The Reporter September 2026
Rocky Silva’s American Karate
Our mission is to operate the best possible martial arts programs for you to develop a healthy mind, body, and spirit while providing you with a friendly and nurturing environment. We have been in business for 36 years and have made a great impact on the community we serve. We pledge to provide all the necessary knowledge and tools to make your journey through life a success. We measure your success not by the color of your belt, but rather by your character and personal growth. We instill Black Belt principles such as Discipline, Focus and Indomitable Spirit in every one of our students. It is also our duty to develop the true leader in each of our students, providing them with the examples, encouragement and positive attitudes to become the best they can be. Rocky Silva’s American Karate is based on the Tae Kwon Do style of martial arts combined with the best from other styles including American Style Karate, Hapkido, Kickboxing and many others. The emphasis is on giving you the best tools available, as well as giving you the opportunity to learn many different styles and techniques.
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Programs
Little Champions Program
Our Little Champions Program is designed specifically for children ages 5 and 6. Students participating in these classes learn the basics of Karate and are taught fundamental life skills and principles. These principles include the 5 S’s of Karate; Self-Discipline, Self-Control, Self-Respect, Self-Confidence and Self-Defense. Our Little Champions classes are fun, up-beat and highly engaging. A typical class includes warm-up exercises (which teach agility, balance and focus), daily stories and lessons with the students on important life topics, Karate basics (kicking, striking, blocking, stances), Universal Forms (patterns of movements), and practical Self-Defense. We often teach many of these examples through exciting games and challenges which the students enjoy and love. Whether your little one needs more control and focus, or could use some self-esteem building, Little Champions is the perfect place for them to grow.
The Kids Karate Program
All our kids karate programs range from ages 7-12. Students enjoy growing their body, 508-730-2600 mind, and spirit in a fun and challenging environment. Our pledge is to help students of all different learning abilities to succeed in their journey of personal growth and betterment. Whether you are looking for your child to gain more control and focus at home and school, or maybe they need a little more confidence and self-esteem, RSAK is the studio for you. Classes range from 30-45 minutes and are fast-paced to best keep students engaged and learning. This in return helps aid in retention and growth. www.RockySilvasAmericanKarate.com The Adult Martial Arts Program
BE A LEADER IN THE CLASSROOM!
MARTIAL ARTS • SHARPENS FOCUS
Improves concentration & attention.
• CREATES A HEALTHY BODY & STRONG MIND
Boosts physical & mental well-being.
• DEVELOPS SELF-DISCIPLINE
Builds strong habits at school, home, and in life.
• REQUIRES TEAMWORK & RESPECT Encourages cooperation & respect for peers, teachers, and self. • FOSTERS MOTIVATION TO SUCCEED
Builds a drive to achieve while learning to overcome challenges. Scan the QR code to learn more about our programs and to reserve a complimentary trial class!
For our older teens and adults, we focus on the true tradition and discipline of the martial arts while simultaneously having fun and improving one’s health. Our Adults experience similar fundamental training including blocks, strikes, stances, kicks; but through a more challenging and educational approach. Our classes also heavily focus on important fitness elements including cardiovascular health, muscle and body conditioning and most importantly, mindfulness. Whether you have no experience at all, or you trained as a child and the spark for training has returned, our Adult Martial Arts classes are for you. The benefits of group training are immense, and we truly believe that we are all a part of the RSAK family. Rocky Silva’s American Karate is open Monday – Thursday from 3pm-9pm and is located at the Fun City Plaza, 1275 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA 02771.
September 2026 The Reporter
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In Rememberance Matthew John Thomas Sagar Jan 1, 1990 — Aug 18, 2026
Seekonk, MA – Matthew John August 27, at 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Parish, Thomas Sagar, 36, lost his battle Coyle Drive, Seekonk. with cancer on Tuesday, August Calling hours and flowers are respectfully omitted. 18, 2026. Memorial donations in Matthew’s memory may be made to St. Born in Attleboro on January Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Alternatively, contributions may 1, 1990, Matthew was recognized be made to the ASPCA, a local animal shelter, or another organizaas Massachusetts’ first baby of tion that helps cover adoption fees for pets in need. the decade. He was the beloved Arrangements are entrusted to the William W. Tripp Funeral son of Gary S. Sagar and Karen Home, Pawtucket, RI. F. (Holmes) Sagar. www.TrippFuneralHome.com Besides his parents, Matthew leaves his two sisters, Pamela Correia and her husband, Ricardo, of Seekonk, and Victoria (Tori) Sagar of East Providence; his Matthew Sagar niece, Paige Correia; his nephew, Benjamin Correia; and his beloved canine companions, Bailey, Duke, and Murphy. Matthew was born with a smile on his face. He grew to be a gentle giant who was always kind, compassionate, and generous, with a giving personality and a willingness to help others. Matthew was loved by many and was a true friend and an exceptional person. He will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed as a devoted son, brother, uncle, and cousin. Additional loving relatives who were an important part of his support team include his aunt and uncle, Thomas and Susie Holmes of Yarmouth, MA; their children, Jill Holmes of Taunton, MA, and Timothy Holmes of Raynham, MA; Pamela and David Gratiano of Haverhill, MA, and their son, Jack; and Lori Sagar of Chepachet, RI. Special thanks are extended to his cousins, Kristen Shaffer, NP, and her family of Portland, OR, and Brian Gebhardt and his family of Rancho Cucamonga, CA. Matthew’s determination to beat cancer inspired many who witnessed his fight. As hard as he battled the disease, he never once complained about the severe pain he endured throughout his journey. Matthew was a graduate of Seekonk High School. He enjoyed competing in multiple sports, including football, and was a member of the 2007 team that completed an undefeated regular season. Matthew also participated in various hockey programs at Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, RI. Matthew developed a passion for motorsports and competed at Seekonk Speedway in the Seekonk Youth Racing Association (SYRA) Mini Cup Division, where he earned a victory. In 2004, he received the “Most Polite Driver Award.” He later advanced to compete in Mini Stocks and Pro4 Modifieds at various racetracks throughout New England and North Carolina. Matthew was self-employed as a landscaping contractor. His business, Bristol County Landscaping, was his pride and joy. Through hard work and dedication, he expanded the company to multiple vehicles and a crew of seven employees. Even from his hospital bed, Matthew continued to manage the business with the assistance of two Owners and Directors, Amy Silva Rigtrup, Type 3, 80 Broadway, Taunton MA 02780 cell phones and a laptop computer. Lawrence Quintal, Type 3 and 508.822.0081 Relatives and friends are welcome to atChristine (DeLawrence) Quintal, Type 3 www.silvafuneralhome.com tend a Mass of Christian Burial on Thursday,
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The Reporter September 2026
Alice M. Wright Alice M. Wright of Attleboro, MA died peacefully at home on August 9, 2026. Born July 29, 1931 in East Providence, she was a daughter of the late Mary B. (Doyle) Watts and Captain William W. Watts, Sr. and sister of the late William W. Watts, Jr. (Leona), George E. Watts and Florence “Peggy” Watts Devlin (John). Alice was a graduate of East Providence High School and Bryant College. After graduation, she was secretary to the Dean at Bry-
ant College and then joined Amica Insurance. She later worked for DuPont in Rumford, RI before moving to Chevron which became Gulf Oil which was then purchased by Cumberland Farms. She married Lt. Donald C. Wright, Sr. and moved to Rehoboth, MA where they raised Siberian Huskies and co-founded the Narragansett Bay Sled Dog Club with Alice serving as its secretary. She was also a charter member of the Rehoboth Anawan Lion Club and served on the Board of Directors. In 1999, she relocated to Attleboro, MA where she joined the Senior Center and worked with the newsletter team. Alice enjoyed many sports including skiing, tennis, swimming, boating and running 5K races. An enthusiastic traveler, she went across the country by camper, enjoyed vacationing on Cape Cod, and visited many European countries and searched for distant Alice M. Wright relatives on a trip to Ireland. After retirement, she enjoyed taking her grandchildren to their many activities and watching them grow into young adults. Alice loved romantic ballads from the 1950’s and 60’s and at age 70 she learned to play the piano and helped interest a grandson in music. She also enjoyed parades, woodworking and spending time with her family. Alice is survived by her daughter CathClean Up Fallen Trees & Limbs erine “Katie” McCarthy; her grandchildren Services: Clean-ups, weeding, shrubs/hedges removed, Kelly M. Bialorucki (Michael), William F. small land clearing/overgrown area cutbacks, brook/stream Clement (Isabela), Mary Catherine Clement, Elizabeth A. Barr (David) and Allison S. clean outs, lawn mowing, Poison Ivy removal. Pachomski (Jason) and nine great grandchildren. She is also survived by her step children Cheryl W. Daysh (Alfred), Donald No beating around the bush! C. Wright, Jr. (Doreen), Kenneth A. Wright Best prices to fit your budget. (Natalia), Jean L. DeBeaulieu (Donald) and Douglas G. Wright (Roberta). Call Joe for a free quote today Alice was also the aunt of William W. Watts, III, John A. Devlin, Jr., George E. Devlin, Mary Anne Devlin, Emily W. Riley (Dr. James), Margaret M. Devlin, John A. Devlin, References available upon request Jr. and the late Marjorie Begin. Her funeral will be held on Monday, August 24, 2025 at 9:30 am from the PERRYMcSTAY FUNERAL HOME, 2555 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 am in Our Lady Queen of Martyrs, Coyle Drive, Seekonk, MA. Burial in Thomas Cemetery, Swansea, MA. Calling Hours on Sunday, August 23, 2026 from 3-5 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to NCMEC (National Center for Missing and Exploited Children), T2T.org (Tunnel to Towers), or Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, 500 Angel Canyon Rd., Kenab, UT 84791-5000. www.perrymcstay.com Competent Concern When the Need Arises
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We shall find peace. We shall hear angels, we shall see the sky sparkling with diamonds. -Anyon Chekov
September 2026 The Reporter
Gloria Marie (Dube) Sadlier Gloria Marie (Dube) Sadlier, 84, of Rehoboth passed away peacefully on Thursday August 20, 2026, while under hospice care at Morton Hospital, Taunton. She was the beloved wife of Raymond A. Sadlier with whom she shared 63 wonderful years of marriage. She was born in Attleboro; daughter of the late Henri and Rosemarie (Gendron) Dube. Gloria will be remembered for the care she gave to her family and for the many skills and interests that shaped her life. She Gloria Marie Sadlier was a devoted wife and a loving mother. She had a gift for sewing and was a talented seamstress. She enjoyed quilting, knitting, and sewing. Gloria made clothing and Halloween costumes for her children. She also made curtains that still hang in her daughter’s home, a lasting reflection of her handiwork. In her younger years, she refinished furniture, and she also enjoyed flower gardening. An avid puzzler, she found pleasure in quiet pastimes as well as in travel, especially trips to Atlantic City and summer visits to Onset. In addition to her husband, Raymond, Gloria is survived by her three children, Lynn Marie Sadlier of North Attleboro, Holly Ann Hicks and her husband, James of North Attleboro, and Matthew Raymond Sadlier of Attleboro; her grandchildren Shandra Vestal, Krista Pigeon, Jessica Rose Hicks; her 4 great-grandchildren; and her nephew, Donald Carpenter. She was preceded in death by her sister, Pauline Marie (Dube) Carpenter. Honoring Gloria’s wishes all services will be private.
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• Kathrine (Jablecki) Tardiff, 82, of Pleasant Street, Rehoboth, passed away unexpectedly on August 4, 2026, at Rhode Island Hospital, surrounded by the love and comfort of her family.
Seekonk
• Charles Arthur Calverley, Jr., 88, passed away peacefully on June 9, 2026. • K. Patricia (“Pat”) Oliver died on August 1, 2026, surrounded by her family.
Please email obituaries to michaela@reportertoday for pricing and information.
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The Reporter September 2026
SCOUTING AROUND Girl Scouts of Southeastern New England Donates Proceeds to Glimmer of Hope Foundation Each cookie season, Girl Scouts of Southeastern New England (GSSNE) selects a local organization to be the recipient of our annual Cookie Program Community Service Project. Troops and individual Girl Scouts from GSSNE are given the option to donate a portion of their cookie program proceeds to this organization and learn more about their work. The 2026 Cookie Program Community
Service Project this year was The Glimmer of Hope Foundation. GSSNE is excited to announce that $2,605 has been donated to this remarkable nonprofit organization! The Glimmer of Hope Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded by Alison “Ali” Hornung in honor of her late friend Ella, who passed away from leukemia in 2019. Dedicated to supporting children and families impacted by childhood cancer, Glimmer of Hope provides unique programs such as bald dolls that help children feel represented, Best Day Ever photoshoots, Hope for the Holidays family sponsorships, the Courageous Moms Collective, and the annual Glimmer Gala runway event. Since its founding, the organization has raised close to $1 million, donated thousands of dolls, and partnered with hospitals, schools, and businesses to bring light and comfort to families in the darkest of times, ensuring that no child fights cancer alone. The Girl Scout Cookie Program—the largest girl-led entrepreneurial program in the world—funds life-changing programs, experiences, and learning for local youth and Girl Scout troops all year long. 100% of the proceeds from the Girl Scout Cookie Program stay local, powering essential leadership development programming and meaningful community impact. “Girl Scouts is proud to support Glimmer of Hope Foundation, a nonprofit established in honor of a local Girl Scout who bravely battled pediatric cancer. Through this partnership, our Girl Scouts are helping bring hope and support to children and families facing similar challenges. Our Cookie Program is about so much more than selling cookies. It gives girls the opportunity to develop lifelong leadership and business skills while learning the importance of compassion, service, and community. Supporting Glimmer of Hope Foundation allows our Girl Scouts to honor the legacy of one of our own and see firsthand how their efforts can make a meaningful impact in the lives of others,” said Ginger Lallo, Chief Operating Officer at Girl Scouts of Southeastern New England. We are Girl Scouts of Southeastern New England, a nonprofit organization dedicated to building girls of courage, confidence, and character. We serve all of Rhode Island, 13 communities in Massachusetts, and one in Connecticut.
www.gocomics.com/sour-grapes
September 2026 The Reporter
Seekonk Scouts Summer Adventures Seekonk Troops 1 and 9 Scouts had their yearly weeklong camping trip to Camp Yawgoog in Rockville, RI. During the week, Seekonk Scouts met other Scout Troops from around New England, New York, and New Jersey. During the day, Scouts participated in ATV training, swimming, merit badges, games, paddleboarding, and campsite decorations. Scouts decorated their tents and campsite in the theme of Pokemon and Candyland. Troop 1 and Troop 9 Scouts earned over 50 merit badges including Emergency Preparedness, Leatherworking, Swimming, and Aviation. In the evening, Scouts played games, spent time with friends, explored Camp Yawgoog, met Scouts from other states, and enjoyed evening campfires. Additionally, Seekonk Scouts won Troop Champions, the second highest award for a troop at Camp Yawgoog. Seekonk Scouts are planning Fall and Winter Activities. In addition to their regular meetings, Scouts are planning a hike to Mount Washington in New Hampshire, Campsgiving, and a Winter camping trip. 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.
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The Reporter September 2026
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Business Directory CATEGORY
COMPANY NAME
PAGE
CATEGORY
COMPANY NAME
PAGE
Antiques/Coin Shop
Warren Exchange
55
Events
Chris Titcomb Annual Road Race
50
Art Supplies/Framing
Gregory D. Dorrance, Co.
18
Events
German American Cultural Society RI 49
Attorney
Law Office of Luke P. Travis
28
Events
Rehoboth Agricultural Fair
47
Attorney
Stephen E. Navega
27
Events
Rehoboth Have-a-Heart
8
Auto Body
A-1 Custom Auto Body
56
Events
Rehoboth PTSA
62
Auto Body
Sousa’s Auto Body
18
Events
Rehoboth Town Events Committee
49
Auto Repairs
New England Tire
3
Events
Seekonk Lions Club
31
Bank
Bristol County Savings Bank
15
Farm
Osamequin Farm
24
Bank
Goldmark Federal Credit Union
33
Farm
Souza Family Farm
10
Book Sale
Blanding Public Library
60
Feed & Garden Store
Bay State Pet & Garden Supply
40
Building Contractor
A.M. Carpentry
61
Fence Installation
Fence Tech
73
Building Contractor
Nerney Construction
30
Financial Advisor
Island Time Financial Services
45
Carpet Cleaning
Earle’s Carpet Cleaning
73
Fitness - Training
House of Fitness Rehoboth
13
Carpet Cleaning
M & S Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning 6
Flooring - Wood
David J. Ledoux Hardwood Floors
35
Child Advocacy
Team Shawnie Advocacy Group, Inc. 20
Fuel - Oil
Al’s Quality Oil Co.
34
Child Care
Twin Oaks Farm Learning Center
65
Fuel - Oil
E & V Oil Co.
80
Chimney Cleaning
RD Chimney Sweep
38
Fuel - Oil
Petro Home Services
16
Chimney Services
Kenny’s Masonry & Chimney Sweep 77
Fuel - Propane
Propane Plus
2
Christmas Trees
Pleasant Street Family Farm
59
Funeral Home
Hathaway Funeral Home
71
Church
Rehoboth Baptist Church
43
Funeral Home
J.H. Williams & Co. Funeral Home
72
Church
Rehoboth Congregational Church
42
Funeral Home
Silva Funeral Home
71
Cleaning Service
Ada’s Cleaning Services
64
Furniture/Upholstery
Masterson Furniture
8
Cleaning Service
Debbie’s House Cleaning
61
Garden Center
J & L Landscaping & Garden Center 26
Comic Strip
“Sour Grapes” by Tim Jones
74
Gifts & Collectibles
Personal Touch
44
Credit Union
Community & Teachers Credit Union 11
Hair Salon
Crew Cuts
70
Dentist
David C. Zaluski, D.D.S.
57
Hair Salon
Running with Scissors
28
Dentist
George Family Orthodontics
12
Hair Stylist
Tracey Auclair, Hair Stylist
20
Dentist
Lisa Daft DMD & Associates
32
Heating & Air Cond
Leiter Heating & Cooling
78
Dentist
Seekonk Dental Associates, Inc.
23
Home Improvements
MH Home Services
21
Dumpsters/Waste Disp Dutra Disposal & Recycling
24
Insurance Agency
Frazao Insurance
13
Electrician
Blue Collar Electrical Services
19
Insurance Agency
The Agency Paiva
34
Electrician
Neal Bellavance Electric
73
Insurance Agency
Turning 65 Made Easy
79
TITLE 5 INSPECTION Assessments $25 • &Voluntary Consulting
Discount on Title V Inspection
• Septic Systems • Cesspools
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Professional Inspection Services - Est.1995 -
Call Steven Drew • 508-667-4025 MassDEP Approved Title 5 Inspector
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Commercial & Residential
Year-Round Service
September 2026 The Reporter CATEGORY
77
COMPANY NAME
PAGE
CATEGORY
COMPANY NAME
PAGE
Jewelers
Attleboro Jewelry Makers
58
Pest Control Services
Bi-State Pest Control
20
Jewelers
Plante Jewelers
9
Pet Services
Chibi’s Choice
14
Junk Removal
AOL Enterprises
37
Physical Therapy
Personal Best Physical Therapy
25
Kitchen/Bath Design
Infinity Kitchens
10
Plumbing & Heating
Sine Plumbing & Heating
37
Landscape Materials
Bairos Construction, Inc
59
Powerwashing
SouthCoast Pressure Wash
38
Landscape Service
Kimmell Landscaping
57
Private School
Bishop Feehan High School
66
Landscape Service
Ouellette Landscaping
72
Private School
St. Mary Academy - Bay View
69
Landscape Service
Superior Lawn Care
55
Private School
The Providence Country Day School 68
Landscaping & Constr
Josh’s Hardscapes
23
Private School
The Wheeler School
65
Lawn Care
Lawn Doctor
15
Real Estate
Blu Sky Real Estate
9
Lawn Services
Lawn Management Services
14
Real Estate
Colleen Curry, Realtor
11
Locksmith
ARG Locksmith
16
Real Estate
Melissa Casey
21
Marble Fabricators
Star Marble & Granite
46
Real Estate
Russell Weddell, Real Estate Broker 25
Martial Arts
Lima’s Tae Kwon-Do Karate
67
Real Estate
Vicki Doran
33
Martial Arts
Rocky Silva’s American Karate, Inc.
70
Restaurant
La Familia
41
Masonry - Custom
Jose Soares Masonry
44
Restaurant
Madeira Restaurant
41
Masonry-Construction
Valter Rego Masonry
26
Roofing Contractor
B & R Fournier Construction, Inc.
35
Masonry-Construction
William Gallant, Jr. Masonry Services 18
Roofing Contractor
Tabeleys Roofing
64
Museum
Rehoboth Antiquarian Society
48
Security Systems
Home & Commercial Security
11
Music
The Piano Key
66
Septic Inspections
Pro Inspection Services
76
Orthodontics
George Family Orthodontics
12
Septic Systems
Croome Sanitation, Inc.
77
Painting Contractor
Advantage Painting
63
Septic Systems
Seven’s Septic Service
14
Painting Contractor
Anawan Paint
6
Septic Systems
Soares Sanitation Pumping, Inc.
21
Painting Contractor
Cronan Painting
37
Septic Systems
Town Sanitation
17
Painting Contractor
EZ Painting
76
Sports-Baseball
RYBSA
80
Painting Contractor
Fahey Painting
30
Stump Grinding
Heritage Tree & Arborist Services
29
Painting Contractor
Levine Painting Co., Inc.
32
Trash/Junk Removal
Big Blue Removal Service
4
Painting Contractor
Lundco Painting LLC.
38
Tree Service
Carlson Tree Service
54
Painting Contractor
The Arruda & Son Companies
27
Tree Service
Heritage Tree & Arborist Services
29
Paving Contractor
All Phase Asphalt Driveways
22
Tree Service
Seekonk Tree Service
28
Paving Contractor
Mohegan Seal Coating Co
27
Water Treatment
Water Filter Company, Inc.
19
Paving Contractor
Ryan Asphalt Paving
55
Yard Services
The Backyard Man
33
KENNY’S
Masonry and Chimney Sweep
nitation Inc. a S e m o o r C
Commercial
Residential
Quick Dispatch Service
Family-owned Quality Service Since 1962
Locally Owned & Operated for 35 Years Quality, Service & Dependability
• INSPECTIONS • EMERGENCY SERVICE • SWEEPING • CAPS • LINERS • REBUILDS • WATERPROOFING • FLASHING • DRYER VENT CLEANING Masonry Repair & Restoration: Walkways • Patios • Pavers • Walls • Chimneys
508-649-1938
www.kennysmasonryandchimneysweep.com
Septic Tanks & Cesspools • Title V Inspections Vacuum Cleaned • Sewer Rooter Service
508-252-4668 • 508-336-7024 Rehoboth, MA
www.croomesanitation.com
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CLASSIFIEDS FOR RENT
4-car garage for rent in Warren: Perfect for 4 antique cars because of long length and is clean, dry, secure. I am real easy to work with so any garage modifications according to your needs won’t be an issue. $500 per month or best offer. Michael 401-243-4467.
FOR SALE
Boat and trailer for sale. 1987 Seebold Eagle. Motor two years old. $12,000 OBO. Call John (401)248-8604.
FARM & GARDEN
Free seasoned horse manure by the bucket, barrel or truck. Call 508-353-7470.
HELP WANTED
Companion/Caregiver for Elderly Gentleman. Seeking A dependable and compassionate individual to provide companionship and assistance for an elderly gentleman. Requirements:-Portuguese speaking preferred, Reliable, transportation required, Kind, patient and trustworthy. Position details: Provide supervision, Assist with light activity, Schedule TBD - roughly 20-22 hours per week. Compensation: -$15 per hour, paid in cash. If interested, please contact Lisa at 401-524-2984 for more information.
Leiter Heating & Cooling
Keep your system running safely and efficiently with our yearly oil heating maintenance service for only $185! Regular maintenance can help keep your equipment operating properly, improve efficiency, and catch potential problems before they turn into costly repairs.
Our Services Include:
• Oil Services • Gas Services • A/C Services • Heating & Cooling Maintenance • System Installations • Residential & Commercial Services • Yearly Oil Maintenance — Only $185 • Affordable Pricing — Some of the Cheapest Prices Around!
Family owned. Family operated. Customer focused.
We take pride in our work and stand behind the service we provide.
Place Classified ads at www.ReporterToday.com
Be Part of a Winning Teaching Team: Teacher Openings at Twin Oaks Farm Learning Center. All positions - Infants, Toddler & Preschool. Small classes, country setting, college opportunities, dental and vision insurance, retirement plans. Curriculum planning and professional support. At Twin Oaks, we want both teachers and children to be happy, kind, and safe. Located at 127 Tremont St, Rehoboth MA. Call 508-252-5522 for your interview.
EVENTS
Seekonk Flea Market at Seekonk Speedway is open, 7am-1pm every Sunday until December 6th. So many vendors with a large variety of items – there’s something for everyone! NEW Vendors & Patrons welcome and wanted! For more information, call Linda at 401-263-5737.
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 wheeled vehicles: I buy Old cars, Motorcycle, Bicycles, Scooter and other wheeled vehicle and parts. One piece or a collection. Thank you, Joe in Rehoboth 508-558-5129. We do estate cleanouts! Call 774-301-5420 JUNK CARS WANTED UP TO $500 PAID NO KEY? NO TITLE? NOT RUNNING? NO PROBLEM! FOR 24/7 PICK UPS CALL OR TEXT 401-895-7351. Donations of old Christmas decorations. Will pick up. Call Debbie 401-6323602.
PERSONAL AD
Nice guy looking for a woman: Between 50-60 for companionship and friendship, for trips to the beach, dancing, and dining out. Call Kevin at 401-259-9393.
SERVICES
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. Housecleaning: Is your home in need of a really good cleaning? Whether you need a 1-time cleaning, or regular cleanings. Years of experience! (We include fridge and oven w/ our cleanings) Call Gil for details 508840-6611. Handyman/Home Repairs/Improvements: GSS Property Solutions LLC. Registered, Bonded, Fully Insured. Servicing Mass & RI. Call or Text 401-688-9749. Bicycle Sales & Service: Your Bike Shops –Tune-ups on all brands. Happy 250th Anniversary USA! Get your bike tuned up now! 2 locations: in Riverside next to CVS 401-433-4491, and in Warren next to the Police Station and the bike path. Call Art or Joe for service and NEW hours. 401-245-9755 . BIG BLUE REMOVAL SERVICE: Attic, Cellar, Total House. We take everything! Furniture, Brush, Appliances, Yard Waste, Construction Debris, Trash…Demolition of Fences, Sheds, Decks, Pools. Let us do the work. Free Estimates. BEST PRICES. Call Tony 508-226-1295 or 508-889-0824; www. BigBlueJunkRemovals.com.
September 2026 The Reporter
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24 HO U R S 7 DOPEN” AY S A W E E K “ALWAYS
A locally owned & &opera ted, FULL ting oil A locally owned operated, FULLSERVICE SERVICEhea heating company serserving ving thethe East oil company EastBay Bayfor for40+ 40+ years. years. Our enjoy: Our customers customers enjoy:
• Automatic & “Will-Call”oil deliveries • Competitive Full-Service oil pricing • Automatic & “Will-Call” oil deliveries • Flexible payment options: C.O.D.oil (cash/check), Monthly Budgets, 5-day credit • Competitive Full-Service pricing • Flexible payment options: • We accept all major Credit Cards • OurBudgets, acceptance of RIcredit & MA LIHEAP C.O.D. (cash/check), Monthly 5-day • 24/7 emergency & burner service 24/7 phoneofsupport • We accept deliveries all major Credit Cards • Our•acceptance RI & MA LIHEAP • 24/7 emergency deliveries & burner service • Truly friendly & knowledgeable employees • 24/7 phone support • Truly friendly & knowledgeable employees HVAC services:
PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID ATTLEBORO, MA PERMIT NO. PI 228
HVAC services: Service Plans • Service & Installs of Boilers,Service Furnaces, A/C & • Service & Installs of Boilers, Furnaces, Plans ductless Mini-Splits • &A/C More& ductless Mini-Splits – & More
508-336-8851 / 800-515-8003
2500 GAR HIGHWAY, SWANSEA MA MASTER MA RI LICENSED
www.evoilco.com
REGISTER ONLINE AT: