“I am proud to be the new clubhouse manager of Ledgemont Country Club! I have worked at other clubs in the past and have already found Ledgemont to be welcoming to both myself and the members we service. My goal is to ensure everyone has a great experience! Come visit us!”
-J. Olley
Zach Pipa, Head Golf Pro
“I am starting my first year as Head Golf Professional here at Ledgemont. We are looking forward to a great year of golf, tremendous course conditions, and excitement all around. Lessons are open to all ages, as well as new and improved apparel in the Pro Shop.”
-Z. Pipa
Must present coupon.
• New oil filter installed
• Up to 5 quarts major brand oil
• Special oils & filter types will result in extra charges
• Most U.S. & Import cars
PLEASE CALL FOR APPOINTMENT
Rehoboth Town News
From the Clerk's Office
Hello All ~ The temperature is warming; flowers blooming; birds singing ~ Happy Spring! March has certainly been crazy busy for the Town Clerk’s Office. During the month of March, we processed thousands of census forms and dog licenses, held a joint Rabies Clinic with the Town of Seekonk and processed our Annual Town Election vote-by-mail/absentee ballots along with certifying numerous birth/marriage/death records.
As you know, in March we also are preparing for the April 1st Annual Town Election, working on the Town Clerk’s portion of the 2024 Annual Report and completing the Town Clerk’s fiscal year 2026 budgets.
Annual Town Election
Thank you, Rehoboth Reporter, for extending the deadline to submit my article so we can include the April 1, 2025 “unofficial” Annual Town Election results. Below please find the “unofficial”
results for the April 1, 2025 Annual Town Election. Thank you, Rehoboth voters, for voting and congratulations to all candidates who participated in Rehoboth’s 2025 Annual Town Election. SEE UNOFFICIAL RESULTS ON OPPOSITE PAGE.
Elected And Appointed Town Officials
A reminder to our elected and appointed town officials; please be aware that no action can be taken by you in your position until you have taken the Oath of Office. Also, should you ever have reason to resign from your position; your signed notice of resignation should be directed to the Town Clerk, as per MGL c41, s109. Thank you!
2025 Dog Licenses Are Now Past Due
2025 Dog licenses were due by April 1, 2025. You may purchase your dog’s license through Rehoboth’s online permitting website at https://www.rehobothma.gov/ – click on Online Permitting under the Citizen Action Center and choose Dog Licenses “Renewal” to start the process. You can also use the direct link to renew your dog’s license @:https://permiteyes.us/rehoboth/publichome.php. If you prefer, you may drop off your application and payment in the gray drop box at town hall (340 Anawan Street), or by mail (if paying by mail or drop off, checks should be made payable to the “Town of Rehoboth”). The licensing fees are as follows: Male or female dog $20.00; spayed or neutered dogs $10.00. Whether renewing online, via mail, or in person, dog license applications must be accompanied by a current year rabies certificate (with a vaccination date covering the current licensing year) and proof of spay or neuter [if applying for the $10 licensing fee] unless we already have your documentation on file in the Clerk’s Office. If you are unsure, please give our office a call, and we can provide your dog’s licensing information.
Please renew your dog licenses as soon as possible to avoid late fees ~ thank you. To date we registered 1,338 (104 more than last year) of the 2,000+ dogs to be registered. Remember, in addition to being a legal requirement, registering your dog assures the prevention of rabies, and provides easy identification to return lost dogs to their owners because they are now in our database. Thank you to all 1,338 residents for renewing your dog’s licenses so promptly.
Also, another reminder to those residents 70 years of age or older . . . if over 70 years old, as per MGL 140§139(c) and town meeting vote, the Clerk’s Office will waive the $10/$20 license fee; however, you must still apply for the license and show the current year rabies certificate.
Laura Schwall
Another Successful RehobothSeekonk Rabies Clinic Thank You All!
Thank You Seekonk and Rehoboth Animal Control Officers for arranging the event, Seekonk Fire Department for the use of your beautiful facility and the Seekonk Town Clerk Staff for including Rehoboth in your Annual Rabies Clinic. Thank you also, Dr. Trusdale and staff along with Rob & Bonnie Johnson, Jenn Hose and the Seekonk Save-a-Pet volunteers who processed the rabies licenses. Due to the Saturday Rabies Clinic, Rehoboth was able to register 32 dogs. We look forward to participating in the Rehoboth-Seekonk Joint Rabies Clinic again next year mid-March 2026. If you missed the Rehoboth-Seekonk Clinic on 3/15, Dighton is holding one on Saturday April 12, 2025 9am-12pm at the Bristol County Agricultural High School Vet Center - 130 Center Street - Dighton, MA 02715; Cost is $15 and all animals MUST be leashed or in a pet carrier.
HARDWOOD FLOORS
Seekonk,
Annual Town Meeting
Rehoboth voters are advised that the date for the Annual Town Meeting has been scheduled by the Board of Selectmen for Tuesday, June 3rd, beginning at 7:00 p.m. Reminder, last year Town Meeting voted to move the May Town Meeting date to June; first Tuesday in June this year is June 3, 2025. The meeting will be held at the Francis Farm Community Complex – Museum Building – 27 Francis Farm Road. Town Meeting Warrants, after being approved and sent to the printer by the Board of Selectmen’s Office, should arrive in your mailbox, towards the end of May. Last day to register to vote, in order to participate in the Annual Town Meeting, will be Saturday, May 24, 2025 from 8:00AM-5:00PM in the Town Clerk’s Office, 340 Anawan Street. Prospective voters are reminded that they may also register to vote online at www.RegisterToVoteMA. com, or by calling the Town Clerk’s Office to request a Mail-In voter registration form, or download a form @ http://www.sec.state.ma.us/ ele/elepdf/Voter-reg-mail-in.pdf
Annual Town Census Forms Are Now Past Due
Our Annual Town Census Forms for 2025 were mailed to all households in Rehoboth during the first week of January. As of March 31st, we have a total of 581 households that still need to return their forms: Precinct 1 = 139 households in Precinct 2 = 125 households, 152 households in Precinct 3 and 165 households in Precinct 4. If you haven’t returned your 2025 census form, please send it to the Town Clerk’s office as soon as possible. A friendly reminder, failure to return the completed census form may result in voters being placed on an inactive voting list and as per State requirements, after four years of inactivity you will be removed from the voting list.
I would personally like to thank the 5,284 households (578 more than last year) that have already returned their census forms or responded to our Registrar’s phone calls. Our Registrars have completed their calls to the residents reminding them to return their census forms. Thank you, Registrars Jennifer Moitoso and Helene Vitale, along with Kerrie Perkins, Jennifer Hose, Charlotte Castro and several election workers for your exceptional work with the 2025 Census process.
In closing, every April I am reminded how fortunate I am to be your Town Clerk. I would like to thank the voters of Rehoboth for the opportunity to serve as your Town Clerk for twelve wonderful years. I truly love my job and thank all the residents of Rehoboth for making each and every day so very special.
During the month of April, Kerrie, Jenn and I hope you have a wonderful Patriot’s Day, please have a most enjoyable Easter, Passover, Earth Day, and Arbor Day. Please remember the Rehoboth Town Events Committee will be holding their Spring Easter Egg Hunt at Camp Ramsbottom, 205 Winthrop Street (Route 44) on Sunday, April 13 from 11AM-1PM for more details please visit their website @ https://www.rehobothma.gov/town-events-committee/ news/location-change-easter-egg-hunt
Thank you all for taking the time to read my monthly updates and thank you also, Rehoboth Reporter, for faithfully publishing my article every month. We wish you all a most enjoyable April. As another friendly reminder, taxes are due Thursday, May 1st, annual Excise Taxes due April 2, 2025, yearly dog licenses due April 1, 2025, and Annual Census forms were due January 31, 2025. I look forward to chatting with you again in May and hopefully seeing you at our upcoming Annual Town Meeting on Tuesday, June 3rd. We hope you all enjoy the beautiful spring weather.
Thank you, Laura
Rehoboth Nurse’s Notes April 2025
Spring has sprung and for many of us that means a foray into gardens, fields and glens! It also means we are likely to meet our friends, the ticks and mosquitos. I am providing the link here to access the most current information on protecting oneself from the little demons. I will be hosting an educational series, beginning on April 3rd in the Arcade building at 27 Francis Farm Rd. here in Rehoboth. The program begins at 11am. This presentation, the first of monthly educational series, will discuss tick and mosquito borne illnesses. https:// www.cdc.gov/ticks/about/index.html
During this program, I will also be providing an update on the measles outbreak that began in Texas and has spread to many other states. Though there is a case in RI, we do not have any documented cases in Ma. as of this writing. As a public health nurse, I insist on respecting the dignity and informed decision of the individual. However the focus of the public health nurse is unique in that, the goal is the health and wellbeing of the community. To that end, I use science and evidence-based research to be sure I am doing right by my community. During each of the upcoming educational programs I will present the science and research related to the topic of discussion. I began this paragraph writing about the measles outbreak. Protection from measles has long been best achieved using the MMR vaccination, a vaccine provided to children at 18 months and 4 years of age. Measles has been considered eradicates in the US since the year 2000. However, this was a long and arduous task. The vaccine was approved for use in children in 1968 and the goal was to eradicate the virus by 1982. This goal was not met; however, the incidence of disease decreased by 80%. In 1989, after another 8 years of research, it was discovered that a second dose, just prior to starting school, further protected children and over the next 9 years measles was considered eradicated in the US. The following are the some of the consequences and sequela of the measles:
• Hospitalization. About 1 in 5 unvaccinated people in the U.S. who get measles is hospitalized.
• Pneumonia. As many as 1 out of every 20 children with measles gets pneumonia, the most common cause of death from measles in young children.
• Encephalitis. About 1 child out of every 1,000 who get measles will develop encephalitis (swelling of the brain). This can lead to convulsions and leave the child deaf or with intellectual disability.
• Death. Nearly 1 to 3 of every 1,000 children who become infected with measles will die from respiratory and neurologic complications.
• Complications during pregnancy. If you are pregnant and have not had the MMR vaccine, measles may cause birth prematurely, or have a low-birth-weight baby.
Long-term complications
Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) is a very rare, but fatal disease of the central nervous system. It results from a measles virus infection acquired earlier in life. About SSPE: SSPE generally develops 7 to 10 years after a person has measles, even though the person seems to have fully recovered from the illness. Since measles was eliminated in 2000, SSPE is rarely reported in the United States. Among people who contracted measles during the resurgence in the United States in 1989 to 1991, 7 to 11 out of every 100,000 were estimated to be at risk for developing SSPE. The risk of developing SSPE may be higher for a person who gets measles before they are 2 years of age. https://www.cdc.gov/measles/signs-symptoms/index.html
Conversely, the possible side-effects of the vaccination include:
Most people don’t have any side effects from the vaccine. The side effects that do occur are usually mild, and may include soreness, redness, or swelling where the vaccine was given, fever, mild rash, temporary pain and stiffness in the joints. More serious side effects are rare. These may include high fever that could cause a seizure.
For further information on the measles virus, please go to: https://www.cdc.gov/measles/ about/history.html
The children will be on school break during various weeks in April, so watch out for children who are out and about in your neighborhoods. Be extra careful if you see children out on their bicycles on the road. As I always say, Webels wobble, but children can fall down. So, give them a wide berth and please stick to the speed limits out there. Parents, please be sure your children are easy to see, bright clothing, and that they are wearing helmets. I also STRONGLY encourage that children are not on the main roads of Rehoboth and that a responsible adult is with your child/children while on their bikes.
Just a quick reminder about the other ongoing offerings here at the public health nurse office: We have the BP screening clinics at the Senior Center on Mondays and Wednesdays from 11:30-1pm. The bereavement support group continues to run on Wednesday morning from 9:30am- 10:30am. Home bound wellness check are available by appointment on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from 12:30-4pm. The next wellness education presentation will
We welcome all ideas, photos, articles, news releases and notices that affect these areas. We reserve the right to refuse any submission, including classified/display advertising.
ALL NEWS ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY THE 25TH OF THE MONTH It MUST INCLUDE the name and phone number of the sender.
The Reporter is MAILED FREE TO THE TOWNS OF REHOBOTH AND SEEKONK twelve months a year. Subscriptions are available outside our distribution area.
The Letters to the Editor and opinion articles do not reflect the views of the staff of
Rehoboth Reporter. It is not our intent to take sides on any issues, but to present all points of view.
be on breast health, on May 7th at 11am. The next podiatry clinic is on May 1st, by appointment. For further information on our services and other health information please visit the Town of Rehoboth website and go to the Public Health Nurses page.
Here to true Spring weather and we’ll chat again in May. Be kind, be safe, be healthy, Sincerely, Geri
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 find more information.
If you would like to include your child(ren) to our Birthday Blizzard list, please provide the following information:
• Parent/Guardian’s name, address, email, phone
• Child’s name, birthdate, school, 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 the community by providing Christmas gifts, holiday support, and special occasion needs to Rehoboth residents who are facing challenging times in their lives. Donations can be made out to “Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Inc.” and mailed to: Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Attn: Cathy Edington, 61 Reservoir Ave., Rehoboth, MA 02769
Colleen McBride, Cathy Edington, and Cheryl Santos Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Inc. www.rehobothblizzardofgiving.org
News from Rehoboth Food Pantry
Happy Spring, Rehoboth! Thanks to the incredible generosity of our local businesses and residents, the Rehoboth Food Pantry continues to meet the needs of our neighbors facing food insecurity. Your donations—monetary, food items, and time—keep our shelves stocked and our mission alive.
While winter may be behind us, chilly spring mornings and evenings are still ahead. Please remember that the Pantry also offers confidential fuel assistance to help keep our neighbors warm.
We’re often asked what items are most needed. While our needs shift with the seasons, here’s what we’re in need of today:
Current Most-Needed Items:
Mac & cheese, canned pasta (ravioli, spaghetti & meatballs, beefaroni), baked beans, tuna in water, chunky peanut butter, canned green beans, potatoes, beets, carrots, mixed vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, pasta sauce (meat or traditional), canned tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, saltines, golden rounds-style crackers (like Ritz), and cereals (store brands welcome): Honey Nut Cheerios, Cheerios, Raisin Bran, Frosted Flakes.
It’s impossible to thank everyone individually—so many residents and businesses give generously. Rehoboth, thank you. We are so fortunate to live in a town full of heart.
This month, we’d like to offer special thanks to:
• The Rehoboth Reporter team for keeping our community informed about Pantry news.
• Our Lady of Mt. Carmel’s St. Vincent de Paul Society for hosting a food drive this weekend—and for their ongoing support through frequent donations.
• Rehoboth Congregational Church for their consistent food collections and generous contributions.
• Our dedicated Pantry volunteers—our sorters, drivers, organizers, shoppers—all who make the Pantry run smoothly every week. You are the heart of our mission.
• Soul Purpose, for monthly donations and assisting with pickups at Harvest Tap & Table.
Pantry Hours & Services:
Every Thursday from 2:30 to 4:30 PM, the Pantry opens its doors (located at the rear of the building at 51 Winthrop Street) to provide food and other essentials.
If you’re unable to visit, we offer confidential delivery—just call us at 508-493-1922.
Donation Drop-Off Locations:
• Anawan Pharmacy – 224 Winthrop St.
• Blanding Library – Bay State Rd.
• Land-Tek – 477 Winthrop St.
• Loraine’s Stitch ‘n’ Crafts – 235 Winthrop St.
• Munroe Feed & Supply – 200 Fairview Ave.
• Harvest Tap & Table – 2685 Grand Army of the Republic Hwy, Swansea
To make a monetary donation:
• Visit our website: rehobothfoodpantryma.org
• Donate via PayPal: PayPal Donation Link
• Or mail a check to: The Rehoboth Food Pantry, 51 Winthrop Street, Rehoboth, MA 02769
From all of us at the Pantry—thank you for your kindness and support. Together, we make Rehoboth stronger.
Rehoboth Antiquarian Society Seeks
Handyman/Handywoman
The RAS seeks a Handyperson to provide repair and maintenance services to its properties, including Blanding Free Public Library and the Carpenter Museum; both located in the Rehoboth Village. The position is for ten (10) hours per month, divided between the two facilities and pays $25 / hour.
Continued on next page...
Trees, shrubs and perennials for our Landscape Clients
When to call in a Landscaping Pro? Are you planning to make major improvements to your outdoor space? It is always beneficial to use a professional landscape company
Green Care Landscaping offers expertise not only in plant selection, and the aesthetics of gardening, but also with maintenance plans, environmental concerns, drainage solutions and technical details too easy to overlook.
Green Care offers you the benefit of over thirty years of experience to give you beauty, efficiency and enjoyment of your outdoor space. We have a fantastic selection of trees, shrubs and perennials for our Landscape Clients Please stop by or contact Green Care Landscape Professionals for more information
thru 05/11/25
1462 Fall River Ave. (rte. 6), Seekonk, MA 02771 (508) 336-4043 • www.wbu.com/seekonk
1462 Fall River Ave. (rte.6), Seekonk, MA 02771 (508) 336-4043 www.wbu.com/seekonk
Duties are routine maintenance responsibilities including such things as replacing light bulbs, moving or installing furnishings, moving HVAC units and replacing filters as necessary, installing weather stripping and films on doors and windows, cleaning out gutters and window wells, etc. Occasional tasks may include painting interior and exterior surfaces not requiring the services or equipment of a professional painter, light carpentry work, and minor plumbing tasks such as replacing faucet washers and clearing drains.
This is 10 hours a month, year-round position. The schedule is set by the handyperson with at least once monthly contact with both the Directors of the Blanding Library and Carpenter Museum.
Applicants must be able to lift items weighing as much as 50 lbs. Must be able to climb ladders. Must have basic hand tools and skills needed to perform job functions. Must submit at least two job related references and pass a CORI.
To apply please fill out application found on our website at www.rehobothantiquarian. org/aboutras/employment and submit it with references to Library Director, Whitney Pape, at wpape@sailsinc.org
Questions? Email Whitney Pape at address above or call (508)252-4236
Seeking Volunteers to Join Rehoboth’s
Personnel Board
If you are a Rehoboth Resident willing to invest a few hours per month to assist your town in maintaining a successful and productive workforce, please consider taking a position with our Personnel Board!
Ideally, we are seeking new members who can bring some experience in HR management and a working knowledge of employment law, but candidates with a background in related areas of business or a history of public service within a small municipality are also well suited for this volunteer role.
New members must commit to meeting one evening per month and be willing to research and evaluate employment policies and practices, edit job descriptions, review job classifications and do related administrative tasks outside of those monthly meeting times. Total time investment would be between 8 and 12 hours per month!
This is a challenging and interesting opportunity to bring value to your town while you learn more about Rehoboth and its town government! Our website shows our mission statement, agendas and meeting minutes - https://www.rehobothma.gov/personnel-board.
If you are interested, please email me at LEONARD.LEHRER@ GMAIL.COM and a Board member will follow up.
Best Regards
Leonard Lehrer
Clerk, Town of Rehoboth’s Personnel Board
The Rehoboth Police Department Is Taking Back Unwanted Prescription Drugs
Saturday April 26, 2025
On Saturday, April 26th, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the Rehoboth Police Department and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration will be giving the public an opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs. Bring your medications for disposal to the Rehoboth Police Department located at 334 Anawan Street. (We cannot accept liquids, needles or sharps, only pills or patches.) The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.
For more information about the event and to locate a take back location near you go to www.DEATakeBack.com.
Rehoboth Animal Shelter News
Several cats and dogs at the Rehoboth Animal Shelter are still waiting for their forever homes. Lori is an undemanding tabby female who will be happy to watch birds from your window! Information about our adoptable pets is available at Petfinder. com. To make an appointment or to report a lost or found pet, please call 508-252-5421, ext. 126 and leave a message.
There will be a fundraiser to benefit the Rehoboth Animal Shelter on April 12 from 4:00 to 8:00. Information is available at https://www.facebook.com/events/s/psybels-otherworldshafla-iv/936535608231056/
Rehoboth Memorial Day Parade
MAY 26, 2025
Rehoboth Democratic Town Committee Caucus
The Rehoboth Democratic Town Committee (RDTC) will hold a caucus on Saturday, May 3rd 2025, at the Blanding Public Library 124 Bay State Road at 9:00 AM to elect delegates to attend the MA DEMS 2025 Convention taking place on Saturday, September 13th, 2025 at the MassMutual Center in Springfield, MA. Anyone interested in attending the MA DEMS 2025 Convention, as a Democratic candidate, should contact the Chairman of the Rehoboth Democratic Town Committee, Paul Jacques at (508) 922-4394 or via email DemCommittee02769@gmail.com
As always, registered Rehoboth Democrats and un-enrolled voters are invited to attend the upcoming Caucus and scheduled meetings. For more details visit our FB page at @RehobothDTC.
I would like to thank you all who participated in last year’s Rehoboth Memorial Day Parade. Rehoboth Memorial Day Parade is being conducted annually here in the town of Rehoboth along Bay State Road. If you haven’t participated in the past, please contact Rehoboth’s Director of Veterans Service officer. My office would love to have you in our Memorial Day Parade This May 26th 2025. Please call 508-252-4467 or e-mail Jake at veterans@rehobothma.gov
The Parade will start around 10:00 AM near the Anawan School & the American Legion on Bay State Road. The parade will travel through the village along the Red White & Blue painted lines on Bay State Road and end up at the Veterans’ Memorial Gazebo, Redway Plain. You will see 68 each 3’x 5’ American Flags on the utility poles along the entire parade route from early May through Veterans Day. The Memorial Day Ceremony will commence at around 11:30 AM followed by dedication for all our Fallen Comrades who’ve given the ultimate sacrifice and for those who have fallen since last Memorial Day with a ceremony ending at noon with the lowering and raising of the American Flag.
After the Parade, please come on over to the American Legion and join our Veterans for some hotdogs, hamburgers, and snacks. Please respond to the Director of Veteran Services Office if you’re interested in participating in this year’s Memorial Day Parade at 508-252-4467 or e-mail Jake at veterans@rehobothma.gov
Thank you, Rehoboth, for your outstanding support over the years. Jake Kramer
Rehoboth Land Trust Photo Contest!
Submit your photos of nature by June 30, 2025
Do you have a passion for capturing the beauty of plants, animals, and stunning landscapes? The Rehoboth Land Trust invites photographers of all levels – whether you’re a hobbyist or a seasoned pro – to participate in our photo contest!
This is your chance to have your work featured on the puzzle design for RLT’s second annual Puzzle-A-Thon fundraiser in September. Our panel of guest judges will select the most captivating images to be showcased, helping raise funds for a cause you care about – protecting the wildlife and natural landscapes of Rehoboth!
Contest Details:
Theme: photos must feature plants, animals, or natural landscapes in Rehoboth. No human-made structures please.
Eligibility: Open to all ages and skill levels. Photos can be taken anywhere in Rehoboth, but we’d love to see pics on RLT properties!
Photo Requirements: High-resolution digital images only. (Historical photos are welcome, as long as they meet these criteria.)
How to Enter:
Email up to five submission(s) to info@rehobothlandtrust.net with the subject “RLT Photo Contest” before June 30, 2025.
Include the following details:
• Your name, and the name of the photographer (if different)
• Your phone number
• Location in Rehoboth where the photo was taken
• Date (or year) of the photo
• Description of the photo’s subject
• Age of photographer (optional)
• 1-3 sentences about what the photo means to you (optional) By entering, you give the Rehoboth Land Trust permission to use the submitted photo in our 2025 puzzle design – credit will always be given. Big thanks to our local judges: wildlife photographers Dennis Goulet and Steven Brasier, Jen Joubert of Jennifer Joubert Photography, and D-R High School’s photography teacher Elizabeth Tache. Show us your best shot and help us celebrate the natural beauty of Rehoboth!
Events Calendar
All of these events are FREE and open to the public! Please note that some events require registration.
April 24, 2025 @6:30pm - Sustainable Landscaping: Gardening for People, the Planet, and Your Pocketbook / RLT Annual Meeting, Melanie Trecek-King (Nature’s Voices Speaker Series) - Goff Memorial Hall
If you love gardening, this is for you! Professor Melanie Trecek-King will reveal sustainable gardening methods to create beautiful backyard habitats that are also safe for native plants and animals. An active speaker, Melanie is an Associate Professor of Biology at Massasoit Community College, and founder of Thinking is Power, a science curriculum focused on critical thinking and information literacy. This is also the Rehoboth Land Trust’s Annual Meeting, so you will get an inside look at what else we’re up to! No registration necessary.
Continued on page 14...
Melanie Trecek-King
May 10, 2025 @9am - Spring Bird Walk - Reynolds Ave Conservation Area
BYOB -- binoculars, that is! Up your birdwatching game by learning the different songs and calls of spring migrating birds. Count how many you can spot at our property on Reynolds Ave, guided by experienced birder and RLT Trustee, Madeleine Linck. She’ll also teach you how to use the free Merlin ID birding app (download it before the walk for best results). Registration required. Please email info@rehobothlandtrust.net with your name, phone number, and # of people in your party.
June 28, 2025 @11 am - Live Animal Show, Animal Adventures (Nature’s Voices Speaker Series) - Goff Memorial Hall
Kick off your summer vacation by getting up close and personal with some cool critters! Zoo and rescue center Animal Adventures will showcase live creatures including an alligator, hedgehog, geckos, turtles, frogs, and more. If the animals are up to it, you might even be able to pet some of them! Learn about the wildlife conservation programs at Animal Adventures, and ways you can help protect Rehoboth wildlife. This event will take place at Goff Memorial Hall in Rehoboth and is FREE and open to the public. No registration necessary.
The Rehoboth Land Trust Nature’s Voices Speaker Series is funded in part by a grant from the Rehoboth Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency. Thank you RCC!
Rehoboth Land Trust, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization funded entirely by donations and run by dedicated volunteers. We are not a town committee. Learn more at www. rehobothlandtrust.org.
SEEKONK DENTAL
DR. FRANK CASARELLA &
Garden Amphibians
LURI LEE
American Toads and Eastern Spadefoots
by Carol Entin
We all revel in our first chance to loosen the soil in our garden beds, breathe in the scent of damp earth, and burrow our hands into the soil. You are not alone! Have you noticed that you sometimes share your beds with toads?
In April, American Toads will be on the move from their upland burrows, such as in your yard, to wet meadows, cattail and sedge marshes, as well as shallow ditches from deep tire ruts that hold water long enough for egg deposition, development of tadpoles and, eventually, tiny toadlets that move onto the land. The males will trill in the afternoon and evening to attract females over a period of a few weeks. Use https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=Z0Ksdwgtk_0 to hear and see this activity. Females lay long strings of fertilized eggs after mating.
Eastern Spadefoots, a threatened species in Massachusetts, also live in Rehoboth. We would love your help in identifying more locations where they live. So far, we know of 3 breeding pools, but there could be others especially where soils are sandy loams where they can easily burrow about 21” down. It doesn’t take long for Spadefoot to disappear into the sand as you can see here https:// www.youtube.com/watch?v=iqcAB1HXDDg
Unlike American Toads, breeding is a short one-or two-night, noisy affair for Eastern Spadefoot. When the conditions are just right, such as a warm heavy rain when temperatures are 50 degrees and above, males will migrate from upland burrows and head to pools or shallow depressions that hold water in the spring but then dry up. These could be as simple as low areas in a lawn or field, a storm drainage basin or a sedge marsh. Like American toads, the males’ throat sacs inflate as they make a sound like a young crow to attract females. Watch and listen to their unsual call here: https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=KkeJkxAMbeI. Eggs are deposited in multiple small masses on twigs, plant stems and leaves.
Both Spadefoot and American Toads will return to their same burrows in the uplands after breeding. However, if they encounter your garden beds, they might decide the soft soil is the perfect new summer home. At night, these carnivores will emerge and eat slugs, snails, worms, and insects – your perfect pest control buddy! Look for their oval shaped holes with a loose plug of soil. Oblong pellets of their body waste are deposited above ground and sometimes contain visible insect legs and wings.
How do you tell them apart? It’s quite easy. American Toads have large, highprofile warts scattered on their skin. Eastern Spadefoot have low-profile warts and a vertical pupil like a cat. In addition, their backs have lyre-shaped markings in yellow and brown. If you find or hear Eastern Spadefoot, contact me immediately, any time of day or night, as timing is critical at president@ rehobothlandtrust.org, or 508-415-6065. If you find one, mark the location so you can find the spot again, take photos from above and both sides and release it before you contact me. Do not detain it on its way to a breeding event.
American Toad
Rehoboth Committees Dissolved
By Joe Siegel
The Board of Selectmen voted Monday to dissolve several town committees. Town Administrator Deborah Arruda explained some of the committees had either been dissolved due to their objective being accomplished, including the Roundabout Committee, or members had resigned from committees.
Arruda said the list of committees had been presented to Chairman Skip Vadnais, who agreed the time was right to not renew them for the 2025-2026 time period.
These include the Economic Development Committee, Litter Committee, Physical Conditions Report Review Committee, Rehoboth’s Community Garden, Town Maps Review Committee, Town Photographer, Recreation Committee, Public Safety Complex Project Manager, Overseer and Volunteer of Town Projects, and Community Health Service Board of Overseers.
Vadnais noted all the committees had been appointed by the BOS and were not standing committees by town bylaws.
Insured
Fahey’s Painting
committees which are “archaic” and “problematic,” Vandais said, noting town meeting would need to approve the changes.
Interior • Exterior
Honest, Dependable, Craftsmanship
34 Years Experience
Use Benjamin Moore Paints Power Washing & Carpentry
Fahey’s Painting
Interior • Exterior
Honest, Dependable, Craftsmanship
34 Years Experience
Use Benjamin Moore Paints Power Washing & Carpentry
John 508-933-9940 Justin 401-338-0895
state’s MBTA Law, which stipulates: “An MBTA community shall have a zoning ordinance or by-law that provides for at least 1 dis trict of reasonable size in which multi-family housing is permitted as of right; provided, however, that such multi-family housing shall be without age restrictions and shall be suitable for families with children. For the purposes of this section, a district of reasonable size shall: (i) have a minimum gross density of 15 units per acre, subject to any further limitations imposed by section 40 of chapter 131 and title 5 of the state environmental code established pursuant to section 13 of chapter 21A; and (ii) be located not more than 0.5 miles from a commuter rail station, subway station, ferry terminal or bus station, if applicable.”
“We have the town’s best interests at heart,” Selectman David Pereira said Monday. “I don’t want to see our town change in a dramatic way.”
The Governor’s office has warned that communities which choose not to comply with the law will lose funding from the Housing Choice Initiative, the Local Capital Projects Fund established in section 2EEEE of chapter 29; the MassWorks infrastructure program established in section 63 of chapter 23A, or the HousingWorks infrastructure program established in section 27½ of chapter 23B.
Pereira said a parcel of land on Spring Street may be designated as suitable for 40B housing. “There are no restrictions in that overlay area.”
The matter will be presented to town meeting voters eventually. The Board of Selectmen have been consulting with the town’s legal counsel.
Some other communities have filed litigation against the state. So far, Rehoboth has not.
“We have the luxury of time. A lot of the towns (which filed) crossed their arms and said ‘we’re not going to comply one bit.’ Now they have no other choice but to litigate. We don’t have to comply with this until December of 2025,” Pereira added.
John 508-933-9940
Justin 401-338-0895
Dighton-Rehoboth Teachers Object to GBI Policy
By Joe Siegel
The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional Teachers Association (DRTTA) does not support the district’s GBI policy, which was approved last December by the Dighton-Rehoboth School Committee.
“The majority of our members do not like this policy at all because it is too vague,” Steve Patrick, President of the DRRTA, told the committee at their March 25 meeting.
The teachers’ union filed a grievance against the school district over the policy. Patrick said the policy was intended to focus on prohibiting political activities and advocacy but had also brought up social issues, which the union members objected to.
Parents and students also expressed their opposition to the policy.
The revised GBI policy states in part: “In connection with campaigning, an employee shall not: use school district facilities, equipment or supplies; discuss their campaign with school personnel or students when actively engaged in official duties; or use any time for campaigning purposes when actively engaged in official duties. Under no circumstances will students be pressured into campaigning for any staff member.
In addition, school district facilities are not public forums for the display or dissemination of an employee’s views on political candidates or political, partisan, or social policy issues. While engaged in their official duties, employees shall not participate in political activities. Such activities include:
• Campaigning for or against any candidate, political party or issue;
• An employee’s using his/her position to attempt to influence students, parents or others to vote for or against any candidate or issue.
• Contacting students, parents or others for such purposes;
• An employee’s using his/her position to attempt to influence students, parents or others to adopt any view on any political issue;
• Wearing apparel with political messages or displaying campaign paraphernalia while performing work;
• Displaying political materials in classrooms or on other parts of
• school property that do not support the educational goals
• of the district, create an unwelcoming or disrespectful
• environment for students, or create a disruption to the
• educational process.
“For the purposes of this policy, political issues, messages, and activities are those issues, messages, and activities which relate to the government or public affairs, including economic issues, foreign policy, social issues, or political or social ideologies over which the public is deeply divided.”
AOL ENTERPRISES
New Dighton-Rehoboth Principal Named
By Joe Siegel
Dustin Demers will serve as the new Principal of Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School (DRRHS).
Demers, who has been serving as Acting Principal since January, was the unanimous choice of the Screening Committee and was the sole finalist following a thorough interview process.
“Dustin Demers and his leadership team have thrived in the face of an adverse set of circumstances, demonstrating resilience, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to empower our students, staff, and families,” Superintendent Bill Runey said Tuesday. “His ability to provide stability and forward momentum during a time of transition has been invaluable to our school community. We are confident that his leadership will continue to ignite the fires of excellence in our #WeAreDR community for years to come.” Demers has nearly two decades of experience in education. Before joining DRRHS as Assistant Principal in August 2023, he served in multiple leadership roles, including Dean of Students and Director of Admissions at Bishop Feehan High School, as well as Principal of Blessed Sacrament School in Walpole. “With his diverse background in teaching, student support, and school leadership, Demers is committed to being a long-term fixture at DRRHS, guiding the school toward a strong and sustainable future,” Runey added.
Runey Proud of 2026 D-R Budget
By Joe Siegel
Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Superintendent Bill Runey told the school committee March 25 that he was “very proud” of the $53.8 million budget his administration has proposed for FY’26.
Runey said the 33 staff cuts proposed in the previous two budget cycles had “gutted” the district. There were 12.5 cuts in FY’ 24 and 20.5 cuts in FY’25.
This year, the district is adding three positions while two others will not be backfilled due to retirements, yielding a net gain of one new position.
“Across the state for Regional school districts, transportation funding has been reduced by 8.9 percent, Runey continued. “Chapter 70 funding was increased by less than 0.1 percent.”
Runey also was “very disappointed” that Governor Maura Healey “has not prioritized education again.”
Although the state has allocated $309,470 more in funding to the district compared to FY’25, Runey believes that is insufficient due to the rate of inflation across the country in the last four years.
Transportation funding has been reduced by 8.9 percent, Runey continued. Chapter 70 funding was increased by less than 0.1 percent.
Runey warned class sizes would be impacted, along with special education and other programs if the school district budget is not approved as presented.
Dighton and Rehoboth will hold their annual town meetings in June.
Dustin Demers
Rehoboth Council on Aging
The Council on Aging will be closed on Friday April 18th & Monday April 21st
Breakfast
Mon / Wed / Fri From 8:30-10
Lunch
Mon / Wed @ Noon. Come join us
Gert’s Spring Lunch
Wednesday April 16th @ Noon SOLD OUT
Cinco De Mayo Lunch
Monday May 5th @ Noon
Tickets are $10.00 each
Scam Presentation
by our own Rehoboth Police Dept
Wednesday April 2nd @11:00
Learn about the latest scams and how to protect yourself
Estate Planning Seminar
Monday April 7th @ 10:00
Please Join Register Tom Hoye and First Assistant Register Attorney Juliane Clark as they discuss the role of Bristol County Probate and Family Court and the impact it may have in the lives or our Seniors. The topics that most affect seniors will be discussed that may include but not limited to; the basics of estate planning, guardianships, change of name applications, and Court Service Center. We hope that this 30-to-45-minute interactive discussion will be beneficial for all that attend.
Mike “Z” Szczoczarz
Friday April 5th @ 10:00
Will do a pop up class "Drawing for the Fun of It". Come and join our Talented Mike Z
Piano Serenade
Russell Raiche will be playing the piano for us Fridays 10:00 - 11:30
Join Our Walking Club
Mon-Wed-Friday 10:00AM
Please note new start time
Trivia!
Held on the First Monday of each Month
Join our Email List
Updates during the month COAmail@rehobothma.gov
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
10:00 Walking Club
10:00 Bocce
10:00 Cornhole Toss
10:00 Barre Class $3.00
Noon Gert’s Café ~ Ltd seating ~ $5.00
1:00 Line Dancing $3.00 Tuesdays
9:00 Dancer-cise $3.00
10:00 Jewelry Making Class $5.00 We will be doing Glass etching, wool felting, and more. These classes will be priced accordingly
10:00 S.E.A.T Chair Exercise $3.00
10:00 Sewing & Quilting
11:00 Functional Fitness $3.00
1:00 Hi-Lo Jack
1:00- 3:00 Crafty Fun Classes $5 Wednesdays
8:30 - 10:00 Breakfast
10:00 Walking Club
10:00 Fiber Arts (Knitting & Crochet get together. Jane Williams)
As always all pricing is a suggested donation. Please sign up for Lunch ahead of time. This helps Chef Chico plan the meals
- Thursday 8:00am to 4:00pm Fridays 8:00am to Noon
Rehoboth Public Health Nurse
Geraldine Hamel, RN MSN: Monday through Thursday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. 508252-6502 ext. 3127 or 508-252-5947
Stephanie Reis, RN BSN: 508-252-6052 ext. 3128
Offering multiple medical services for our Rehoboth citizens: Home Visits, Vaccinations. Support groups: Bereavement, Caregiver Assistance, Dementia Support and more
• Wellness Clinic Wednesday 11:00-Noon
• Podiatry Clinic: Last Thursday of the month
• Blood Pressures & Glucose Screenings
Please contact Geri Hamel for more information on these services.
Rehoboth Council on Aging
A Municipal Department of the Town Mission:
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 Seekonk Scene
From the Town Clerk’s Office
Happy Spring! Personally we are very happy for the extra hours of daylight. Many families seem to be taking advantage of the nice weather by visiting the Town Hall Playground. It has been full of activity.
Please Mark Your Calendars:
• April 7, 2025 – Annual Town Election from 7:00AM-8:00PM at the Seekonk High School (gymnasium)
• April 21 – Patriots Day – Town Hall Offices closed.
• April 21 – Taste of the Town – Ledgemont Country Club, 131 Brown Ave in Seekonk from 5:00-8:00PM. Tickets are available at the Town Clerk’s Office for $35.00 (must be over 21+ to attend).
• April 21-25 – Seekonk School’s will be closed for spring vacation.
• May 12 – Spring Town Meeting at the Seekonk High School (auditorium) at 7:00PM. Check in will begin at 6:00PM.
Annual Seekonk Town Election
Please Remember To Vote!
Our town election will be held Monday April 7, 2025 from 7:00AM-8:00PM at the Seekonk High School.
Below is a list of the candidates who are running for elected positions:
BOARD OF ASSESSORS – For Three Years Vote for ONE Nelson Almeida (incumbent)
BOARD OF SELECTMEN - For Three Years Vote for ONE Gary Sagar
LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES – For Three Years Vote for THREE
Ann Caldwell (incumbent)
Michael Durkay (incumbent)
Alyssa Richards (incumbent)
PLANNING BOARD – For Five Years Vote for TWO Jo-Ann Perry Open
PLANNING BOARD – For Four Years Vote for ONE Open
*Please note there is an official write in campaign for the Planning Board seat by R. Michael Bingham
SCHOOL COMMITTEE- For Three Years Vote for TWO Emily Field (incumbent)
Robert J. Gerardi, Jr. Michael Novinson
WATER COMMISSIONER – For Three Years Vote for ONE Dawn Dyer (incumbent)
*Please note there is an official write-in campaign for the Water Commissioner seat by Jeffrey Starr Mararian
The following BINDING QUESTION will be on the ballot:
Shall the Town of Seekonk be allowed to exempt from the provisions of proposition two and one-half, so-called, the amounts required to pay the Town’s allocable share of the bond issued by the Tri County Regional Vocational Technical School District for the purpose of paying costs of designing, constructing, originally equipping and furnishing a new District High School and related athletic facilities to be located at 147 Pond Street, Franklin, Massachusetts, including the payment of all costs incidental or related thereto? ______ Yes ______No
EARLY VOTING will be held at Seekonk Town Hall, 100 Peck Street in the Select Board Meeting Room during the following hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 8:30AM-4:30PM; Wednesday: 8:30AM7:00PM; Friday: 8:30AM-12:00PM
Please remember whether you are voting by mail or in-person, please be sure to completely fill the oval in with a black ball point pen or fine-tip felt marker only. Do not put an “X” or check mark because the voting machines will not be able to read the ballot.
If you have a ballot to drop off on April 7th please put it in the ballot drop box located at the front doors of Town Hall. We will be checking the drop box during the day to be sure your vote counts.
Rabies Clinic Update
The annual rabies clinic was a huge success again! A sincere thank you to Dr. Truesdale from Central Avenue Veterinary Hospital for volunteering his time and to our Animal Control Officers, Andrea Russo, Jessica Blake, and Ashley Lawrence for assisting Dr. Truesdale. We were fortunate to have the Rehoboth Animal Control Officer, Robert Johnson, and Rehoboth Town Clerk, Laura Schwall, and Jennifer Hose join us. It is always nice to collaborate with our neighboring community.
Thank you to all the Save-A-Pet volunteers for processing the rabies licenses and for keeping the lines organized and moving. This clinic would not be possible without your help.
We would also like to saying thank the Seekonk Fire Department for sharing their apparatus bay to allow us to hold the clinic there.
Town Census
Thank you to all those who have submitted their census. If you have not returned your town census please do so as soon as possible. Failure to respond to the census may result in an interruption in voter status, becoming an inactive voter, and being removed from the active voting list. As a reminder, the census does not register you to vote. If you are a registered voter, there will be a party affiliation by your name (i.e. D, R, U, etc.). Updates to your party affiliation can be made in person at our office or by going online to https://www.sec.state.ma.us/OVR/.
Dog Tags Expired on March 31st
Massachusetts General Law states dogs must be licensed annually, with proof of a current rabies vaccination. Failure to comply may result in a by-law citation fee. You can renew the license in-person or by mail. If you would like to have the dog tag mailed
to you, please return your completed form to us along with a self-addressed stamped envelope and a check made payable to the Town of Seekonk. As a reminder, license fees are waived for residents 70 years of age or older. However, you still need to apply for the license and show the dog is current on their rabies vaccine.
Reminders From The Tax Collector’s Office
Motor Vehicle Excise Tax 1st bills were due by March 12, 2025. Real estate and personal property taxes:
• Third quarter was due on Monday, February 3, 2025
• Fourth quarter will be due on Thursday, May 1, 2025
If you have any questions regarding your taxes, please contact the Tax Collector’s Office at 508336-2930.
We hope you have a wonderful month. As always, please contact us (508) 336-2920 or by email at townclerk@seekonk-ma.gov if you have any questions. Thank you for taking the time to read the Town Clerk’s Office monthly update.
~Kristen and Lorraine
Doorways Salutes Our Volunteers
Over the years, Doorways has been blessed – with support from the people in our town, with food collected in local food drives, and with willing volunteers to distribute love and groceries to our neighbors in need. But when Covid burst upon the scene and disrupted all our lives, it also disrupted our long-standing volunteer network. Post-Covid, when Doorways resumed indoor shopping (after eighteen months of curbside distribution), our volunteer organization had to be rebuilt. Our volunteer coordinator, Suzie Miller, worked for many months to forge both old and new volunteers into a new network of volunteers. Thank you to Suzie, who did a remarkable job in rebuilding our volunteer base back to full strength.
When Doorways returned to indoor shopping, among the first to return to service was the team led by Don and Lydia MacManus, who had volunteered as a group for many years beforehand and now continue to minister as a team. Thank you, Team MacManus – and thank you to the many other volunteers, past and present, who have given time to help our neighbors in need.
Pictured L to R: Hayden Quintal, Lila Owen, Dan Fortier, Joe Macek, Wendy Ashcroft, Chuck Owen, Lydia MacManus, Nancy Owen, Cyndi Soares of Team MacManus
*Sustainable Seekonk*
By Christine Zadykovich, Recycling Coordinator @ Seekonk DPW 508-336-7407
The Seekonk Recycling Committee would like to remind residents of all the great recycling and sustainability programs and resources we have available in town:
Your Efforts Pay Off! For the month of February, residents dropped off 4850lbs of textiles in the bins at DPW & the schools, saving those materials from the trash and making them into new things. Residents dropped off over 200lbs of hard to recycle items in the Terracycle collection shed at DPW, saving the items from the trash and making them into new things. Composters also dropped off over 2500lbs of food waste into the collection at TARF, saving that weight and space in their blue bag trash! All of these collections directly save money on our trash bill, as well as earning funds back to support our schools and other programs in town. It all adds up and makes a difference, thank you for making the extra effort to collect these items and deliver them to the appropriate places.
Earth Month Activities April 5th kicked off our Earth Month activities-including the main event of Litter Patrol and distribution of rain barrels, backyard compost machines, and kitchen scrap compost bins. If you missed out on the main event, contact the Recycling Coordinator at DPW to see if there are any items remaining, or to get on a wait list for any future giveaways.
Seekonk Transfer Station/TARF (351 Fall River Ave) is open year round Mon-Fri 8am-3pm for drop off of yard waste (leaves, grass, twigs). Upcoming Bulky Waste Days: Apr 12, May 10. Passes are $29 and can be purchased at the DPW offices.
Seekonk DPW Offices (871 Taunton Ave) has textile collection bins & a Terracycle collection shed in the parking lot, and rechargeable batteries collection bin and eye glasses collection inside the lobby. Drop off fluorescent light bulbs-including CFL bulbs & tubes. These should never go in your curbside bins! Single use alkaline batteries, incandescent & LED bulbs can go in your blue bag trash. String lights & extension cords are also accepted anytime. Propane tanks can be dropped off w/ purchase of blue sticker $8.50. Bulky Waste Pickup stickers available for the 2nd & 4th Weds of each month for most items, 3rd Tues for metal/electronics, & 3rd Weds for mattresses/boxsprings.
Sustainability Survey: The Recycling Committee wants to hear from you! There is a survey posted on the Recycling Committee page on the town website www.Seekonk-MA.gov please help us understand what you’re interested in, what you need help with and what you’d like to see.
Food Waste Compost Collection at TARF: Black Earth Compost collection where residents can bring household food waste. Accepted items include: fruits & vegetables, egg shells, bread, cereal, meat & bones, wooden chopsticks & toothpicks, coffee grinds & filters and more. See BlackEarthCompost.com for a full list and tips on collection & transport. You can dump food waste directly into the bins or use certified compostable bags-no plastic bags please!
Don’t Trash It! Consider donating items that are still usable. If items are broken or no longer usable, pick up a special recycling packet at DPW or town website for FREE recycling resources.
The Library of Things- did you know the Seekonk Library has way more than books? With things like karaoke machines, metal detectors, stud finders, instruments, cameras, computers & more, it›s an amazing way to borrow what you need & save money!
Recycling Tip of The Month: Only a limited number of items can actually go in your curbside recycling bin. If it’s not on this list, then it belongs in the trash-or check for special handling. Items accepted in your recycling bin: Glass bottles or jars, Plastic containers (jars, jugs, bottles, cups-with caps or covers), Aluminum/tin/steel cans or pie plates, Newspapers, magazines, junk mail, office paper, envelopes, paper bags, Paperboard, Pizza boxes, Cardboard. Please remember to recycle right, and…. Reduce-Reuse-Recycle (in THAT order!)
Cadime Presents $75M Town Budget
By Joe Siegel
Seekonk Town Administrator Shawn Cadime has presented a budget of $75.2 million for FY’26, which begins July 1. That figure represents a 3.3% increase over the current fiscal year.
The largest portion of the budget is education, which totals $35.8 million. Of that amount, $33.7 million is designated for Seekonk Public Schools. That’s a 2.5% increase over the current fiscal year. Foundation enrollment is 2,040 – a decrease of 36 students.
The Tri County Regional School assessment is $2 million, a 44% increase. Seekonk represents 8.8% of the foundation enrollment, totaling 84 students. The required town contribution is $1 million over a 30 year period. The debt assessment is $635,000.
Cadime warned the Select Board on March 26 of “significant” impacts on the town budget if a debt exclusion for Tri County is rejected on April 7. “Services and requests for services continue to
go up,” Cadime explained. “What we provide from Department of Public Works, Police, Fire, those costs are going up and the community is continuing to grow. The requirements for those services and the demands for those services don’t go away.”
“I think it’s imperative that everyone understands where we’re at today,” said Board member Justin Sullivan. “I can’t emphasize enough how important it is that we pass this debt exclusion for Tri County because it’s going to have a major impact on everything as we go forward.”
The Bristol County Agricultural assessment is $114,363, a decrease of 12%. 11 Seekonk students attend the school.
Fixed costs and debt service total $17.1 million. The Sanitation Enterprise Fund is $1.95 million, a 4% increase over the current fiscal year. Key highlights include:
• Salary increases across departments are based on contractual obligations.
Dr. Lisa Daft
Dr. Gian Calandrelli
Dr. Lisa Daft and Dr. Jared Stubbs
announce
Chris Vanderpool
• No new positions added –Budget does not include any additional staff
• Town Hall Cost Savings –Office supplies consolidate into a single cost center, reducing costs by $20,000
• $1.3m reduction –Budget reduced from initial department requests
• Department-Wide Cuts –Budget reductions applied across all departments
• As for individual departments, General Government is $3.45 million, an increase of 2%.
• Public Safety is $12.3 million, a one percent decrease. The Police Department is $5.7 million, a decrease of 0.4 percent. There are 44 full time employees.
• The Fire Department budget is $4.8 million, a decrease of 1.6%. There are 45 full time employees.
• Human Services is $683,430, a decrease of 2%.
• Culture and Recreation is $1.3 million, a 1% increase.
• The Town Clerk’s office is $169,433 – an increase of 5.7%.
• The Town Treasurer’s office is $164,731, a decrease of 5%.
The entire budget can be viewed at: https://www.seekonk-ma.gov.
Seekonk Fire Station Plans On Hold
By Joe Siegel
Plans to construct a fire station in the south end of Seekonk remain on hold following a discussion at the March 12 Select Board meeting.
Gary Sagar, a former selectman, urged the Board to approve a Spring Town Meeting warrant article authorizing funding for the project.
Chairperson Michelle Hines declined to hold a vote on the matter, noting more
information needed to be released to the public before any action could be taken.
In 2023, the Select Board decided not to place an article on the Fall Town Meeting warrant. The vote was 3 to 2. Chris Zorra and Hines voted in favor. Michael Healy, Pam Pozzi, and Justin Sullivan all voted in opposition.
Sullivan said the Fire Department had been “understaffed” and “overworked.” The potential lack of staffing for a new station was a concern raised by Sullivan before the vote was taken. The $11.2 million cost was another factor.
James Tusino, the chairman of the South End Fire Station Building Committee, aired his grievances toward the board.
“You neglected to say that you wanted to pull the plug, that you wanted to go in a different direction,” Tusino said to Sullivan. “You wasted my time, you wasted the volunteers’ time, you wasted the money.”
Fire Chief Shaun Whalen told the board there would not be enough firefighters to man the new station. There are 10 firefighters assigned per shift. However, with allotted vacation time, the number drops to a minimum of six. Splitting the personnel among three buildings would allow only two firefighters at each station.
“The (South End) building would be vacant up to eight hours a day, if not longer than that,” Whalen explained.
Voters at the May 2020 town meeting allocated $425,000 for the design of the facility at the former school administration building at 69 School Street. The town owns that property. The 8300 square foot building would consist of three components, including dispatch, living quarters, and fire suppression. A debt exclusion, or temporary tax increase, would’ve been required to be approved at town meeting before construction began.
Seekonk Swears in Six Firefighters
By Joe Siegel
Six new firefighters were sworn in at Wednesday’s Select Board meeting: David McGovern, Samuel Dejong-Ewing, Jonathan McNamara, Joshua Helton, Alex Bak, and Brandon Botelho.
Building Projects May Be on Spring Town Meeting Warrant
By Joe Siegel
The Seekonk Select Board voted 4 to 1 on March 26 to place a library renovation warrant article before voters at the May Town Meeting. Chairperson Michelle Hines said the library project was “ready to go.”
The renovation cost could be as much as $10 million. Justin Sullivan, Hines, Michael Healy, and Chris Zorra voted yes. Pam Pozzi was the lone no vote.
Library Director Kathleen Hibbert outlined a list of needs in a discussion with the board on March 12. “This is already a compromise. We’re not coming for a new building,” Hibbert said. “We know that ship has sailed but we have been waiting 25 years to make improvements to the building.”
A feasibility study was conducted in late 2023/early 2024 and the final report was issued last November. It read in part: “The library is located at the site of the former Newman Avenue Landfill. In an earlier study, a structural assessment identified up to 3 inches of settlement at the southwest corner of the library building. The exterior building cladding is visibly deteriorated in many areas, and will need to be replaced.”
There will be no warrant article for a new Department of Public Works (DPW) facility.
Pozzi believes a new facility is a “priority.”
Seekonk Swears in Six Firefighters
Healy said it was an “absolute need” and noted the proposed location on Fall River Avenue “really isn’t the best site for us to use.”
Gary Sagar, a former selectman now running for the board, proposed an alternate location on Taunton Avenue can be used. Sagar said the total cost of the new project would be $16 million, a big drop from the $40 million project which was going to be situated at 351 Fall River Avenue. Voters at last November’s town meeting were not supportive of the proposal, which required a debt exclusion (temporary tax increase).
Hines noted more information was needed about the DPW project before it could be placed on a warrant.
Seekonk Library Renovations
By Joe Siegel
Renovations to the Seekonk Public Library could be as much as $10 million. A feasibility study was conducted in late 2023/early 2024 and the final report was issued last November. Among the findings:
General Condition - The library is located at the site of the former Newman Avenue Landfill. In an earlier study, a structural assessment identified up to 3 inches of settlement at the southwest corner of the library building. The exterior building cladding is visibly deteriorated in many areas, and will need to be replaced. It is anticipated that water infiltration has damaged the plywood substrate and the metal studs of the wall framing. The windows are very early aluminum units and have reached the end of their useful life. The wall assembly does not comply with current Energy Code. A substantial reroofing project was undertaken in 2008. Overflow scuppers were installed to mitigate an on-going water penetration problem. The roof does not provide the required insulation value. Floor finishes are worn and dingy and ready for replacement. Drywall ceilings are in acceptable condition. Acoustic ceiling systems show some areas of damage and discoloration as well as areas of replacement tiles.
Library Functionality - The children’s space is undersized for the population served and is therefore crowded. It is also not acoustically separated from the rest of the library. Space for collections competes with seating/activity space for patrons and the physical collection must be continuously weeded to provide space for new acquisitions. There is no readily accessible space for small groups and conference-type meetings. Daylight and views to the exterior are extremely limited in both patron and staff areas.
Seekonk Public Library has inadequate stack space to store and display properly its entire physical collection and continuously weeds the collection to provide space for new acquisitions. The book stacks ranges are excessively long and quite tall. Lighting levels in some areas is inadequate. The library compensates for reductions in the physical collection by increasing access to electronic sources of information and popular reading, although these resources are expensive and not user-friendly to the entire service population. The library is also a net lender in the inter-library loan network, taking advantage of resources stored in other community’s libraries, with reduced convenience to Seekonk library users.
The full report can be viewed on the Seekonk Public Library website: https:// seekonkpl.org/home_page/9652/
Voters at the October 2022 Town Meeting rejected authorizing funds for a $24 million building. Every member of the Seekonk Board of Selectmen voted in favor of the project. Town Administrator Shawn Cadime
had also voiced his support. The new building would have replaced the current 14,880 square foot facility at 410 Newman Avenue.
A proposal for a $19.6 million library was defeated at the May 2021 town meeting.
Hibbert told the board there has been some maintenance on the facility. “We’ve had some lighting replaced, we’ve had a roof replaced,” Hibbert noted. “But a lot needs to be done.”
Seekonk DPW Project On Hold
By Joe Siegel
Plans for a new Department of Public Works facility are on hold following a discussion at the March 12 Select Board meeting. Chairperson Michelle Hines supports the project but wouldn’t commit to placing an article on the Spring Town Meeting warrant. “It’s not the right timing,” Hines explained.
“I guess I don’t have the same mindset as you people do,” said Gary Sagar, who is running for an open seat on the Select Board. “Let’s get to work, let’s get (DPW Director Dave Cabral) a facility that he needs.”
Sagar proposed keeping the current facility at 871 Taunton Avenue and combining it with a property located at 911 Taunton Avenue. The tax increase for the average home would be $106.88 a year, according to Sagar. All the work could be done “in house” by one company. No Office of the Project Manager (OPM) would be necessary.
Sagar said the total cost of the new project would be $16 million, a far cry from the $40 million DPW project which was going to be situated at 351 Fall River Avenue. Voters at last November’s town meeting were not supportive of the proposal, which required a debt exclusion (temporary tax increase). There were complaints about the cost and the proposed location.
Board member Justin Sullivan expressed his doubts about the procedure Sagar laid out. “Despite the leg work that you’ve put into it, it still skirts state procurement and bid laws. You need to have an OPM (Office of the Project Manager) for the project, you can’t rely on the staff that we currently have in this town to manage a multi-million dollar, multi-month process construction phase. I think we need to make sure we’ve done our due diligence before we go into the purchase of a million and a half dollar property.”
Stephen E. Navega, PC
- ATTORNEY AT LAW -
Administration of Estates
Probate of Wills
Wills and Trusts
Health Care Proxies
Durable Powers of Attorney
447 Taunton Avenue
Seekonk, MA 02771
T 508.336.8120
F 508.336.3350 navegalaw@aol.com
Providing legal services since 1979. Experience matters.
Sullivan noted the $16 million amount Sagar cited “has all the potential of being even higher.”
Town Administrator Shawn Cadime said the original estimate for the project was $15 – 20 million.
Cadime said a request for the money required to buy the 911 Taunton Ave. property would have to be put before the voters at Town Meeting.
“Let’s continue the process if the Board directs me, the process doesn’t stop, we’re moving forward,” Cadime added.
Healy Supports Demolition of Old Town Hall
By Joe Siegel
Select Board member Michael Healy has spoken in favor of demolishing the Old Town Hall on Taunton Avenue. The structure, the former site of the Seekonk Police Department headquarters, has sat unoccupied for several years. “For twenty years we’ve let that building sit there,” Healy said at the board’s March 26 meeting.
The property, constructed in 1897, had been sold to the Seaconke Wampanoags for $55 in 2014. The tribe had intended to convert the building into a cultural and meeting center. Those plans fell through and now the town owns the building again.
At an October 2022 meeting with the Old Town Hall Building Committee, the Board of Selectmen approved a feasibility study for the building. At the time, Town Administrator Shawn Cadime said the study would present viable options of what could be done with the building and at that point, decide how the Town should move forward with it.
In 2018, Selectmen designated the task of determining the building’s value to members of the town’s Historical commission and the Community Preservation Committee.
The CPC noted when the building opened in 1898, it had served as a way of bringing the community together, since at the time, the Town of Seekonk did not have a Town Center. After the Committee held several meetings and did a walk-through of the building, they proposed preserving the building to utilize it in a multifaceted way.
A total of $100,000 has already been spent from the town’s community preservation fund in order to prepare the building for the historic register.
Seekonk School Budget Approved
By Joe Siegel
The Seekonk School Committee voted to approve an FY’26 budget of $33.7 million at their March 24 meeting. That figure represents a 2.66% increase over FY’25.
The initial level service budget projection had been a 6.5% increase, Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell told the committee on March 10.
The Town Administrator and Select Board requested the school department to work with a 2.5 percent increase, which amounts to $823,000.
Reductions include significant cuts in supplies and services, as well as positions reduced primarily through attrition across all unions and roles. “None of these reductions are good,” said committee member Kyle Juckett. “They’re never going to be good. The reality is moving forward in the next couple of years, I’m greatly concerned as to what’s to come.”
Fixed costs, which include transportation and energy, have increased 10% to 16%.
Kidwell noted there 2032 students in the district. 505 at the high school, 500 at Hurley Middle School, 578 at Aitken Elementary, and 443 at Martin Elementary.
21.9% are students with disabilities and 36.7% are students with “high needs.”
The district has 339 employees, including 177 teachers and 13 custodians. There are two librarians.
The School Committee met with the Finance Committee in a joint session on March 25. The town election is on April 7. A thirty year debt exclusion to pay the town’s share of the Tri County High School construction project is on the ballot.
Kidwell said if the measure is rejected, the town will still be required to pay its share of construction costs, but the estimated nearly one million dollars per year will have to come from the town and schools’ operating budget.
Three Run for Seekonk School Committee
By Joe Siegel
There are three candidates running for two open seats on the Seekonk School Committee. Incumbent Emily Field faces challengers Bob Gerardi and Michael Novinson. Profiles are below.
Emily Field
Emily Field was elected to the School Committee in 2022 and wants to continue to address the challenges facing the district.
Field, 43, graduated with a Bachelors degree from Salve Regina University. She is employed as a photographer and is raising a daughter. “One of my strongest qualities is my open-mindedness and willingness to listen to different perspectives before making a decision,” Field said. “My focus is always on what is best for Seekonk students, not just what benefits me or my family. Being a lifelong Seekonk resident gives me a deep understanding of where the town has been, where it is going, and what has worked in the past.”
Field understands the challenges some students face. “As someone diagnosed with Dyslexia, ADHD, and Auditory Processing Disorder, I know firsthand the importance of advocating for every child, regardless of their abilities.”
Field said addressing space concerns in the schools is a priority. “I was strongly (opposed to) moving 5th graders to the middle school and 8th graders to the high school, as I do not believe this benefits Seekonk students academically or socially. While overcrowding is a real issue, we need to explore all available options before making decisions that could have long-term consequences.”
Field loves the closeness of the community. “That sense of connection is something special, and it’s one of the reasons I’m so passionate about making Seekonk schools the best they can be. Our schools are strong, and our town has so much to offer—I want to help ensure that continues for future generations.”
Bob Gerardi
Bob Gerardi boasts a wealth of experience in education, having served as a teacher and then as a School Superintendent in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Gerardi, 62, attended Rhode Island College, Providence College, and Boston College. He holds a Masters degree and a Ph.D in Educational Administration. “I come from a family of educators. There are six of us with over 200 years of experience in 11 different states, from Maine to Hawaii and Wisconsin to Texas. Education is important to me.”
Gerardi was an Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum in North Providence and was Finance Director at Minuteman Regional Vocational Technical High School in Lexington, MA. Helping the school department is something Gerardi views as community service. “I moved to Seekonk because of the reputation of the schools and I wanted my children to be in those schools. I look at it from the perspective of being a parent. I understand the needs of educators and I appreciate educators.”
Gerardi notes he has always been “fiscally prudent in the way I live my life and the way I run my schools.”
Gerardi hopes to improve communication if he is elected to the school committee. “I want to make sure the children have the best possible education they can have and it was that very important to me that they had quality programs and quality staff that really helped my children all find their way in life, their career pathway.”
Michael Novinson
Michael Novinson believes his experience as a Business Reporter will be beneficial to the school committee. Novinson, 36, is married and has two children. He attended Haverford College in Pennsylvania, where he majored in Political Science with a minor in Education.
High class sizes at the elementary level are a concern, as well as the failing heating system at Hurley Middle School. Enrollment numbers at Seekonk High School have been declining. “There are some long term challenges. As a school committee member, I would look at the infrastructure and space challenges at each of the buildings. In terms of the day to day responsibility: budget, policy, superintendent evaluation, I feel my day job lines up well with those as a business reporter. I’m reviewing financial statements and balance sheets on a daily basis and asking tough questions of executives. I think I’d really be able to step in on day one and make an impact.”
Novinson has always had a love of education. In his senior year of college, he spent time embedded with an ELA history teacher in a high school. The experience was rewarding. “If I weren’t a reporter, I think teaching would’ve been at the top of my list. It’s something I’ve always had an interest in even if it’s not something I’m doing professionally.”
Seekonk School Candidates Forum
By Joe Siegel
(Full article at www.reportertoday.com)
The three candidates for two open three year seats on the Seekonk School Committee answered questions from local media at a televised forum on March 28. Michael Dressler, a member of TV9’s Board of Directors, served as Moderator.
The forum will be airing on TV9 through Election Day on April 7.
Emily Field
Bob Gerardi
Michael Novinson
Events & Activities
Narragansett Bay Symphony Community Orchestra
Join the Narragansett Bay Symphony Community Orchestra, Rhode Island’s premier community orchestra and interim music director, John Eells as a Chamber Concert is presented on Sunday, April 6, 2025 at 4:00 pm Central Congregational Church 296 Angell Street, Providence, RI.
John Eells,
interim music director
NaBSCO’s annual Chamber Music Concert features small ensemble pieces. The pieces include Sonata by Giovanni Buonament for low brass and strings; Flute Duets by Katherine Hoover; Violin Duets by Reinhold Glière; an original piece, Karina’s Habundat, composed by NaBSCO cellist, Kari Juusela accompanied by Juan Rios; the String Octet in Eb Major by Felix Mendelssohn; Brass Ensemble pieces by Giovanni Gabrieli and Enrique Crespo. The Chamber Concert concludes with a performance of Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony No. 1 in C Major featuring the entire chamber orchestra.
NaBSCO’s Final Concert of the season will be on Sunday, June 8th, 2025 at 3:00 PM in the auditorium at East Providence High School in East Providence, RI. Mark your calendars for these last two concerts of the 2024-2025 season.
Visit www.nabsco.org for more information about the remainder of the 2024-2025 concert season.
Admission is free for this concert with donations accepted at the door. Please also help support the RI Community Food Bank by bringing a non-perishable food item.
For more information visit NaBSCO’s website, www.nabsco.org, email team@nabsco.org, or call 401-274-4578.
Rehoboth Contra Dance
Founded in 1981, the Rehoboth Contra Dance is a vibrant community event with lively music performed by talented musicians, energetic dancers filling the hall, and callers encouraging us with our favorite dances. The rhythmic steps, laughter and cheers of dancers can be heard wafting from the windows of Goff Hall, in the Blanding Public Library on Friday evenings, and we carry that appreciation and joy in our hearts until the next dance. Young and
old newcomer and seasoned dancer - we welcome you to join our dance! Dances are generally held on the fourth Friday of the month, year-round. Please see the Rehoboth Contra Dance website for detailed information at www.rehobothcontradance.com
Friends of The Rehoboth Contra Dance Facebook Group https:// www.facebook.com/groups/43751946212/?ref=share&mibextid=N SMWBT
Rehoboth Contra Dance Events Facebook Page https://www. facebook.com/share/1BGU1C4v4A/
Arts in the Village
Presents Stephanie and Saar, Piano Duo
Sunday April 27, 2025 2:30 pm
Goff Hall, 124 Bay State Rd. Rehoboth, MA
Adults $25, Children/Students $10
No reserved seating
Free and handicapped parking
For more information go to www.rehobothantiquarian.org/artsin-the-village/
Stephanie Ho and Saar Ahuvia, concert pianists, collaborate as Duo Stephanie and Saar in dazzling performances filled with visceral excitement, elegance and artistic vision. Both Ho and Ahuvia pursued graduate degrees in performance at the Peabody Institute of Johns Hopkins University and studied with Leon Fleisher. Their performance repertoire is diverse. Their groundbreaking performance of Igor Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring arranged for four hands was reviewed by The New York Times. They have also performed an arrangement of Stravinsky’s Petrushka, the finale of which, The New York Times declared, “free of percussion ... came through in all [its] visionary clarity”. The Duo has issued several CDs, including “Bach Crossings,” which was described by the Chicago Reader as a “lovely, concise recording [that] does nothing to obscure Bach’s indelible melodies ... it still feels very different from conventional performances of the same music: Kurtág provides a modern sensibility and heightened harmonic splendor, while Ho and Ahuvia bring a less rigid sense of time and rhythm, creating a rich fluidity”. Their CD “Beethoven Dialogues” includes Beethoven’s String Quartet No. 6 in G Major. A review of a live performance by Stephanie and Saar said that it “captured the music›s serenity, the melodic interplay exquisitely realized”.
Piano Duo Concert April 27th
Poppy’s Crew Announces Plans for the 2nd Annual Wreaths Across America
Event at Rehoboth Village Cemetery
Poppy’s Crew is thrilled to announce the initial stages of planning for the 2nd Annual Wreaths Across America event, set to take place on National Wreaths Across America Day, December 13, 2025, at the Rehoboth Village Cemetery. After the success of their inaugural event, Poppy’s Crew is looking forward to expanding their efforts and engaging even more of the local community in this important national remembrance.
Community Involvement Encouraged
Poppy’s Crew invites individuals, families, and local businesses to get involved in this heartfelt event to honor and remember fallen veterans. There are many ways to participate, whether by volunteering, helping organize fundraisers, or assisting in raising awareness for the cause. The crew is seeking volunteers to help with flagging and those interested in supporting the event financially, whether through sponsorships or wreath donations.
Business Sponsorships & Donations
“We are seeking local businesses to partner with us by sponsoring wreaths, contributing to administrative costs, and assisting in the cost of the removal of the wreaths in January,” said Jaime Papineau, Event Coordinator for Poppy’s Crew. “Your involvement is vital to ensuring we can continue this meaningful tradition and honor the sacrifices of our veterans.”
Exciting Community Partnership
In addition to the wreath-laying event, Poppy’s Crew is excited to highlight a unique educational opportunity brought to the area by our neighbors in Somerset. The Wreaths Across America Mobile Exhibit will be visiting Dighton, Ma offering an immersive experience focused on honoring veterans, educating the community, and engaging youth in the important message of remembrance.
The American Soldier Play
The Somerset group is also sponsoring a powerful play, The American Soldier. This one-man dramatic production shares the untold struggles of American soldiers, diving deep into the emotional toll of war, the sacrifices made, and the challenges veterans face as they transition back to civilian life. Based on real letters written by veterans and their families, this heartfelt production is a mustsee and will serve as another meaningful way to honor veterans and their families.
Get Involved
For more information on how to participate in the 2nd Annual Wreaths Across America event or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Poppy’s Crew at waapoppyscrew@gmail.com or visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/NH0043P or www.poppys-crew.net. The community is encouraged to mark their calendars for December 13, 2025, and to take part in honoring the brave men and women who have served our country.
A limited number of Ty Law autographed bottles of Corvus Vodka will be available.
Enjoy some of Seekonk’s finest cuisine, drinks curated by Chris Gasbarro, Ty Law’s Corvus Vodka, and photos with the Patriots Cheerleaders!
Complimentary Stella Artois glass & custom engraving to the first 150 attendants.
$35 Admission Per Guest
Tickets may be purchased through PayPal, at the door, Seekonk Town Hall , Seekonk Human Services & Seekonk American Legion.
*If using PayPal, please fill in payment info with your name, number of guests, phone number and email.
ChurCh News & eveNts
Community Covenant Church News
Are you looking for help and hope? Every week at Community Covenant Church, we strive to bring that to everyone who walks through our door through the good news of the gospel of Jesus. Through relevant preaching and modern worship that engages all ages from birth to empty nesters. For more information on our programs and current sermon series, check out www.communitycovenant.church. We hope to see you in person or online this Sunday at 10 am. We also hope to see you at our Good Friday Interactive Prayer Walk and Easter Sunday when we will begin a new series.
Good Friday: An Interactive Prayer Walk.
This interactive prayer walk is a self-paced version of the Stations of the Cross. You will participate in activities to draw you and all of your senses into the events of Jesus’ last week of life. Arrive anytime between 4 and 6pm on Friday April 18th to experience this journey at your own speed. Because of the nature of Jesus’ last week of life this experience is suggested for ages 12 and older. A unique environment for children will be provided for those under 12.
Starting Easter Sunday April 20th at 10am.
When you know who you are, you’ll know what to do. But who do you see in the mirror? A masterpiece or a mess? A struggler or a survivor? Find out what God says about you in a brand new series: Who do you think you are?
Episcopal Church of the Epiphany Holy Week and Easter Schedule
Join us to observe these celebrations of the power of God’s redeeming love and grace.
• Palm Sunday - April 13, 10am: Blessing of the Palms & Holy Eucharist with the Passion Gospel
• Maundy Thursday - April 17, 6pm: Holy Eucharist, Community Meal and Foot Washing
• Good Friday - April 18, 12noon: Stations of the Cross & 7pm: Candlelight Tenebrae Service
• Easter Vigil - Saturday, April 19, 7pm: Lighting of the New Fire, Holy Baptism & First Holy Eucharist of Easter
• Easter Sunday - April 20, 8am and 10am: Festive Holy Eucharist with Trumpet 1336 Pawtucket Ave, Rumford www.epiphanyep.org
Memorial Baptist Church
Celebrate Holy Week with Us!
Join us as we journey through the most sacred week of the Christian faith—a time to reflect, renew, and rejoice in the hope of Easter. You’re warmly invited to participate in our meaningful services throughout Holy Week.
Holy Week Schedule:
• Palm Sunday: April 13, 2025 10am Commemorate Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem with a special service and palms.
• Maundy Thursday: April 17, 2025 7pm A solemn service remembering the Last Supper, with communion.
• Good Friday: April 18, 2025 7pm Reflect on the profound sacrifice of the cross during a liturgical service.
• Easter Sunday: April 20, 2025 10am Rejoice in the resurrection with a joyous Easter celebration of life and hope!
All are welcome to share in this time of worship and reflection. Come as you are, and let’s celebrate the love and promise of Holy Week together.
◆ First Communion Dresses and Boys Suits Sizes 5 - 18
◆ Religious Items & Accessories
◆ Portuguese Jewelry
Jewelry Repair
Watch Batteries
“We
Rise Again from Ashes…”
Lenten Penance Service, April 2, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.
Palm Sunday, April 13, 2025, at 10:30 a.m.
Chrism Mass, April 16, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.
Holy Thursday, Mass, April 17, 2025, 7:00 p.m.
Good Friday Service, April 18, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.
Easter Vigil Mass, April 19, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.
Holy Cross Catholic Church
An Independent community worshipping in the Catholic Tradition. We are an all-inclusive parish where all are welcome!
Easter Brunch Buffet
Sunday, April 20th
Served in Main Floor Dinning Rooms
Brunch Buffet
Single Seating at 11 AM
Adults $29.95
Kids (10 & Under) $19.95
Plus Tax & Gratuity
Luncheon (À La Carte)
Newman Congregational Church UCC News & Events
Holy Week Schedule 2025
Newman Church in Rumford invites you to celebrate Holy Week with us as we remember and celebrate the foundational stories of our faith—Jesus’s public entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, his service and humility in washing his disciples’ feet during the Last Supper on Maundy Thursday, and his death and resurrection on Holy Saturday and Easter Sunday. On Good Friday, Newman Church will worship with the Church of the Epiphany at their 7 pm service of Tenebrae. Through these five worship services we will seek to make the core stories of our faith come alive in our own time through sharing a meal together in the church hall during worship on Maundy Thursday, and finding God’s light in an outdoor service with bonfire on Saturday evening. This Holy Week, we will orient to a new season of renewed hope and purpose as we depart the dark woods of Lent and prepare—with a renewed spirt—to be Jesus’s justice-seeking love in the world during the coming season of Pentecost.
• Sunday, April 13 – Palm Sunday Service at 10 am
• Thursday, April 17 – Maundy Thursday Service at 7 pm ~ Dinner Liturgy ~
• Saturday, April 19 – Easter Vigil at 7 pm ~ Outdoor Service of Light in the Garden
• Sunday, April 20 – Easter Celebration Service at 10 am Rolling the stone away: A new dawn this Easter
84th May Breakfast
We are back in action after a 6-year hiatus! Newman Congregational Church, UCC extends an invitation to one and all to join us on Saturday, May 10th for the 84th May Breakfast. The breakfast will be held from 8 am until 10:30 am in the church’s hall at 100 Newman Avenue in Rumford.
The breakfast buffet will consist of Scrambled Eggs, Bacon, Sausage, Pancakes, Baked Beans, Homemade Muffins, Juice, Coffee & Tea and more! Gluten-free options will be available.
Handmade May Baskets, filled with cookies or flowers will be on sale.
Reservations • Noon - 5PM
Tickets will be sold at the door.
Adults - $10
Children under age 8 - $5
Reservations are not required. However, parties of 10 or more may make a reservation by calling the church office at 401-4344742 x10.
Spring Choral Concert on Sunday, May 4, 2025 at 3:00PM
Being taken for 11am & 12pm pickup
RESERVATIONS REQUIRED
Newman Congregational Church, United Church of Christ is pleased to present our Spring Choral Concert featuring Mass No. 2 in G Major by Franz Schubert. Also on the program are choral works by African American composer Mark A. Miller and British composer Will Todd. This concert will be performed by the choir of Newman Congregational Church, UCC, joined by many friends who have sung with us through the years. Geoffrey Greene is music director and Stephen Martorella is the accompanist, and featured soloists include Becky Bass, soprano, Barbara Youmans, alto, Thomas Seeger, tenor, and Jonne Gomes, bass.
Open for dine-in & curbside take out 431-1322 • madeirarestaurant.com
Check our Facebook page for weekly offerings
Schubert’s now famous Mass No. 2 in G major was composed in less than three weeks in March, 1815 and is his most well known setting of the Mass. Schubert scored it for chorus and soprano, tenor, and bass soloists. He composed it in the form of a Missa Brevis, comprised of the six Ordinary sections of the Mass. namely the Kyrie, Gloria, Credo, Sanctus, Benedictus, and Agnus Dei. The solo sections are mostly interwoven with the choral parts in a mod-
Served in Main Floor Dining Rooms
est fashion. The overall work has lovely melodies and the organ accompaniment gloriously supports the choral parts, sometimes in juxtaposition and other times brilliantly highlighting the meaning of the text. This work has become a mainstay of the choral repertoire. Other works in this concert include three anthems by Mark A. Miller. These pieces feature the themes of love and deep faith, and are written with gorgeous piano accompaniments. Miller’s More Love is a captivating statement on the power of love overcoming hate and has become one of our favorite songs. Works by Will Todd include The Lord is my Shepherd, a lilting setting of the 23rd Psalm, and The Call of Wisdom, an intense offering that reassures the listener of God’s presence and comfort.
The Spring Choral Concert will take place on Sunday, May 4, 2025 at 3:00 PM. The public is cordially invited and there is a suggested donation of $20. All proceeds from this concert support the Newman Church music program. A reception will follow the concert with an opportunity to meet the performers.
Racial Equity Team Hosting Current Event Discussions in April & May 2025
The Racial Equity Team is temporarily pivoting its focus to hosting current event discussions.
Topics this month:
• April 7 - Constitutional Crisis / American Immigration: Here is the 45 min podcast to listen to: Will Our Courts Hold? What You–We Can Do Hard Things – Apple Podcasts
• April 14 - Free Speech
• April 21 - Jennifer Wood, Executive Director, RI Center for Justice will be joining us from 7:00-8:00 https://centerforjustice. org/about/staff/
• May 5: How to End Christian Nationalism
• May 12: Education: A guide to what the U.S. Education Department does (and doesn’t) do
Sign-up at newmanucc.org/ministries/racial-justice and click on the date you wish to attend. Then, fill out the sign-up to receive a zoom link to the discussion.
Racial Equity Team Seeks Applications for Community Scholarship
Historically, American institutions have contributed to the unequal and sometimes violent treatment of many of its citizens. To ensure that this church supports racial equity and social justice with advocacy and meaningful actions, the Racial Equity Team at Newman Congregational Church, United Church of Christ offers scholarship aid - between $1k-$3k to individuals who identify as Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) who are pursuing education beyond high school in 2025-26.
We intend these awards to help further the dreams and aspirations of marginalized students in southern New England.
Scholarship applicants will include an essay describing their motivation and plans for their future.
Dates: Currently Accepting Applications
• Application Deadline – May 9, 2025
• Applicants Notified – May 21, 2025
Criteria:
• Identifying as Black, Indigenous, or People of Color (BIPOC)
• Pursuing higher education or training post-high school (proof of enrollment required)
• Has financial need
• Must be a resident of one of the following states: Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island (proof of residency required)
If individuals or businesses in the community would like to partner with the Newman UCC Racial Equity Team in supporting the Community Scholarship, contributions may be made to Newman UCC at the address below or online at newmanucc.org/give.
Newman UCC is an Open and Affirming congregation of the United Church of Christ and extends this invitation to one and all, living out the example of Jesus’s extravagant welcome, located at 100 Newman Avenue, Rumford, RI 02916. For more information, contact the Church Office at newmanucc1643@gmail.com
REHOBOTH BAPTIST CHURCH
Club News & ANNOUNCEMENTS
Seekonk Lions Club Patriots Day Extravaganza
Get Ready for The Best Fishing Derby Ever!!!!
Patriots Day, Monday, April 21st 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Old Grist Mill Pond, RT 114A in Seekonk
We are finally here! The Seekonk Lions Club’s Thirteenth Annual Doug Allan Memorial Fishing Tournament is just a few weeks away, featuring the best prizes and sponsors in the local community. How do we know that? Well, that fishing magazine in the store says, “George the Fishing Guy and all his buddies at the Lions Club put on the best derby for sure!”
We already knew that! It has been thirteen years with a loyal following and new anglers signing up every year. Local celebrities and dignitaries visit to make sure we all get a look at their faces. They all know where to be on Patriots Day in Seekonk—enjoying the action with free donuts, hot chocolate, and coffee, telling fish stories to those who will listen.
The Seekonk Lions Club’s Thirteenth Annual Doug Allan Memorial Fishing Tournament will be on Patriots Day, Monday, April 21, 2025, at the Old Grist Mill Pond, RT 114A in Seekonk, from 9:00 AM until 11:00 AM. It is open to all children through high school in the area.
Remember, this is thirteen years going strong for the derby! Of course, our friends at the American Legion Post 311 have sponsored our banquet, providing the hall for anglers to sit down and relax while enjoying Chick-fil-A sandwiches with cookies, chips, and drinks.
We would like to see all our fellow anglers back this year and some new ones as well. We will have a great time with great fishing with some great prizes as always!
To register anglers or if you would like to help/donate or volunteer please email seekonkfishingtournament@yahoo.com. For derby updates, check our website at https://www.seekonklions.club/
Remember there is no charge. Just come with your fishing poles, that special bait you may have, and catch some fish!
Taste of Town
The Seekonk Lions Club and Chris Gasbarro’s Liquors team up again for this year’s Seekonk’s Taste of the Town at Ledgemont Country Club @ 131 Brown Ave, Seekonk. We are at a new beautiful location.
We are back for the 28th annual version of this timely event and better than ever! So, what will $35 get you this year? How about fine selections of food and spirits, along with one-of-a-kind raffle prizes? Take home some complimentary Stella Artois glasses personally engraved!
Unfortunately, as previously advertised, the New England Patriots Cheerleaders will be unable to attend. However, former New England Patriot Hall of Famer Logan Mankins is stepping in to continue the Patriot lineage taking pictures and signing autographs at this momentous event. How is that!
You may be asking which food establishments will be on board with tasty samples. The list goes like this and continues to grow:
• From Seekonk – The Old Gristmill Tavern, Gathering Grounds Café, Mack’s Pizza Pub, Benjamin’s Restaurant, Outback Steakhouse, Plaza Mexico, Pokemoto, The Hamilton Diner, Toti’s Grill and Pizzeria Restaurant, Red’s Kitchen, Quality Fruitland and Young’s Caterers.
• From Rehoboth, MA - American Legion POST 302, Vino’s Family Café, Hillside Country Club.
• From Attleboro/ North Attleboro, MA - KC’s Burger Bar, Gigi’s Ristorante
• From Fall River -Tipsy Toboggan.
• From East Providence, RI - Roses Tavern, Red Bridge Tavern, Campino’s, Digger’s Catch Seafood.
• From Warren, RI - Parella’s Restaurant.
• From Pawtucket - Sarcastic Treats.
Then of course, there will be several wineries and brewers bringing their best and latest. Chris and “Roger T” have selected some of their favorite vendors to join the show!
Where can you get a ticket? Well, advanced tickets are available from Chris Gasbarro at events@chrisgasbarro.com. They will also tickets be available at the Clerk’s office at Seekonk Town Hall or at the door that night at Ledgemont. Alternatively, you can capture the PayPal QR code below.
If using PayPal, please fill in payment info with your name, number of guests, phone number and email.
The first 150 attendees will receive those complimentary Stella Artois glasses. So, get there early! The doors open at 5pm and the evening will end at 8pm. Cash or credit accepted. Come on over and have a great time sampling many great items while helping raise money for a great local charity.
Rehoboth Anawan Lions Chicken Pot Pie Dinner
The Rehoboth Anawan Lions are pleased to announce another delicious Chicken Pot Pie Dinner on Thursday April 24th, 2025. As usual it will be a drive-up dinner at the American Legion Hall on Bay Road. The price is still $15.00 per meal of homemade Chicken Pot Pie, mashed potatoes, corn, rolls and homemade brownies. Pick up is between 5 and 6pm. No need to get out of your car; it will be delivered to you. Please call Lisa Halajko at 774-991-0052; Jeanne Noons at 508-824-0534 or 508-942-4903; or any Anawan Lion. This is a fundraiser for us to help our community. Please order by April 20th. Thank You. “We Serve”.
Springtime Tea at Hornbine School
Saturday,
May 10th 2 – 4 P.M.
R.S.V.P. by April 19th
The Hornbine School Museum will have our 2nd annual “SPRINGTIME TEA” for children 5 to 10 years old and their favorite doll or stuffed animal on Saturday, May 10th. We will have refreshments & “petit fours,” treats as well as some fun activities guided by Hornbine School Historians, dressed in period dress. Children are welcome to dress like their doll, in old fashioned clothing.
Kids: Together, we will read a story called Angelina Ballerina and the Tea Party. We will also be making a ‘cup & tea’ craft for your doll/stuffed animal for you to take home.
Parents: We are asking for a donation of $15.00. Reserve your spot by emailing us at hornbineschool@gmail.com by APRIL 19TH. Optional = bonnets & aprons are available for an additional fee. Questions? Please email Dawn at hornbineschool@gmail.com or call 508-728-4867. If a child would like to attend that is close to 5 – 10 years, please contact us for more information.
Donation: $15.00 check made payable to ‘Hornbine School’ (mailing address: Paula Janson, 287 Fairview Ave., Rehoboth, MA 02769 (Please note, this is not the physical address of the school)
The Hornbine one-room schoolhouse is located at 146 Hornbine Road, Rehoboth.
Rehoboth Garden Club April 2025
April will be a busy month for our garden club. On Saturday April 19, 2025, members will clean up and prepare the gardens at the Blanding Library and Goff Hall, as well as the herb garden at the Carpenter Museum. Mulching will begin on April 26, 2025.
RGC’s 91st Annual Meeting and luncheon will be held on Monday, April 21, 2025 at Blithewold Mansion, Gardens and Arboretum in Bristol RI. Our special guest speaker will be Dan Christina, Director of Horticulture at Blithewold. He will talk about their expanding daffodil collection, and offer tips and tricks about growing daffodils at home. Members will also tour Blithewold’s beautiful display gardens, which will be in full bloom for their Daffodil Days event.
The community is invited to join us on Saturday, April 27, 2025 as we celebrate Arbor Day by planting a tree on the grounds of Francis Farm.
Please Save the Date!
Our Annual Plant Sale Fundraiser
Saturday May 3, 2025 from 9 AM – 1 PM. Francis Farm in the Miller Pavilion,
Events at the Seekonk American Legion Post 311
Annual Spring Meat Raffles Starting April 12th
Weekly Meat Raffles will be starting April 12th through May 17th. The raffles take place each Saturday at 2 pm. There are 3 tables of steaks, chicken, seafood, TV and other prizes. 50/50 raffle. Kitchen opens at 1 pm. Call 508-336-9822 for information.
Spring Psychic Fair – April 27th
We will be holding our Spring Psychic Fair on Sunday, 4/27/25. Admission is free. 15-minute readings are $20.00 each. There will also be several Vendors and Crafters (spaces are still available). The hours are from 10 am to 3 pm. Proceeds to benefit American Legion Auxiliary programs for our Veterans, community and children. For more information, please call Kathy at 401-434-8917 or send email to auxiliary311@yahoo.com.
Participating Readers at this event are: Beverly Sylvia – Psychic and Spirit Medium, Annalise Hajer - Spiritual Medium, Debbie Matthews - Spiritual Psychic Medium, Susan Aubin – Medium, Dorothy Raposa - Psychic Medium, Psychometry, Card Reader, Maureen Brown – Psychic Medium, Reiki Master Healer, Tarot Card Interpreter, Ryan – Reiki, Anita Wakim - Intuitive OH Card Reader, Dawn Lorraine – Tarot and Oracle Readings.
Participating Crafters/Vendors are: Emma Healey from Crystal Healing Arts selling crystals and handmade items, Runners by Lois G. selling homemade table runners, Chair Massage with Gabby, Sleepy and Crafty selling crochet decor and wearables, and others.
Drive by Poppy Distribution during Memorial Day Weekend
The red paper Poppy is the official memorial flower of the American Legion. The Auxiliary distributes Poppies so people can remember the sacrifice of our Military. Money received from distributing the Poppy can only be used for Veteran Rehabilitation. Poppies will be available in front of the Post between 9 am and noon on May 25th and 26th. All donations are appreciated.
Music at the American Legion
Friday Night Bands – starts at 8 pm
• Rock A Blues –4/4
• 6L Camino – 5/2
• Rock A Blues –5/9 Hall Rental
• 150 person capacity. Contact Bob for information at 508-3369822.
New members are welcome
American Legion - If you have served at least one day of active military duty since December 7, 1941 and were honorably discharged or you are still serving active military duty honorably, you are eligible for membership with The American Legion. American Legion meetings are held the 3rd Sunday of the month at 10 am.
American Legion Auxiliary - Members are grandmothers, mothers, sisters, spouses (female/male), and direct /adopted female daughters or granddaughters of Veterans/members of The American Legion. A female Veteran can join the Auxiliary without being a member of the American Legion. American Legion Auxiliary meetings are held the 1st Sunday of the month at 11 am.
Sons of the American Legion – Members are male descendants, adopted sons and stepsons of Veterans/members of The American Legion.
For additional information call the Post at 508-336-9822.
351 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA 02771
508-336-9822
“SPRINGTIME TEA”
American Legion Post 302 Public Events
• Try our Fish & Chips or Specials of the Week – every Thursday 4:00 till 7:00 P.M. & Fridays 4:00 – 7:30PM and Saturdays with a Band ONLY 6:00-7:30PM.Take Outs are welcome – call in your order in early for pickup at 508-252-9079
• “QUEEN OF HEARTS” drawing every Friday night at 8:00 PM
• Happy Hour! Sun, Mon, Tues, Wed 1/2 price Bar Menu 3-6:00PM
• Prize Bingo - 4th Sunday of every month at 5:00PM
• “NEW POOL TABLE” Come and have some fun
• 2nd Sunday of Every Month, “All you can Eat Breakfast” 7:30am – 10:30am
• Check us out on Facebook - Photos since 2018 posted by our patrons… https://www.facebook.com/pages/American-LegionHall/258235277540573
For Events: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/
Upcoming Events
• April 5th, 2025 – Saturday - 7:00-10:00 P.M. – Live Music performed by Gutzy Right Duo Entertainment with Classic Rock Music – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Dancing & having a GREAT TIME! https://www.facebook.com/GutzyRight
• April 11th, 2025 - Friday - 7:00-10:00 P.M., Greg Hodde’s Blue Reign, Classic Rock – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart https:// open.spotify.com/artist/57RIFB8RMODxF0PXg6vVjT?si=%20 HGPY_GMWTAioT8epLo0GWg&nd=1
• April 12th, 2025 2:00-11:00PM – ”REHOBOTH PEOPLE HAVE A HEART” PRIME RIB DINNER $45.00 donation 508-2434160 RehobothPeopleHaveHeart@gmail.com or Facebook @ RehobothPeopleHaveHeart
• April 12th, 2025 – Saturday – 6:30 -10-pm, Little Miss and the Boom Band - Modern Music – Vintage Style Acoustic with Brass! –– Drinks – Entertainment, Dancing so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! https://www.facebook.com/LittleMissAndTheBoomBand
• April 13th, 2025 – Sunday -7:30 -10:30 A.M. American Legion Monthly Breakfast, Second Sunday of every month $12.00 donation - All you can Eat!
• April 18th, 2025 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – Rock-A-Blues Band with Classic Rock Music – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! https://www.rockablues.com
• April 19th, 2025 - Saturday - 7:00 - 10:00 P.M., – On 3 Entertainment, Classic Rock – Classic Rock & County – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME!
• April 20th, 2025 – Sunday -5:00 -7:00 P.M. PRIZE BINGO! American Legion Auxiliary, Third Sunday of every month $10.00 donation per 5 Games – Food – Drinks & having a GREAT TIME!
• April 25th, 2025 – Friday - 6:00-8:00 P.M., Sons of the American Legion’s Monthly Meat Raffle followed by Karaoke - 8:00-11:00 P.M. – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Singing, Dancing & having a GREAT TIME!
• April 25th, 2025 – Friday - 8:00-11:00 P.M. + – Live Karaoke performed by our own Karaoke Entertainment, Come on in and sing a song or two – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME!
• April 26th, 2025 – Saturday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – Live Music with The 3 Sum Band - Classic Rock, Pop, Blues, Country, Motown and more – 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! https://www.facebook.com/groups/636053727522063/?ref=share
• May 2nd, 2025 - Friday - 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!
• May 3rd, 2025 – Saturday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M.– Mike Higgins & The Dynamics - Live Music Entertainment playing Classic, Rock & Country - No Cover Charge! – Bar Food – Kitchens open – Fish & Chips - Check with the bar for the Specials of the week – Drinks –Entertainment, Dancing so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Mike and The Dynamics |Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100063173623981
• May 9th, 2025 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – Live Music performed by Notorious Jones Entertainment 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! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www. facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063368911454
Rehoboth Lions Club News Update
The Rehoboth Lions Club would like to thank the community members who participated in our first ever Family Bingo Night on March 7th. We had a great turnout, and it was an excellent opportunity to break the routine and enjoy some interaction with our neighbors! Thanks to Mike and Karen Salois for initiating the idea and making it happen. Thanks also to the other Lions Club members who helped out as well! Keep an eye out for our next Family Bingo Night coming soon!
Nominations are coming in for the Russell F Latham Citizens Recognition Night to be held on May 21, 2025 at the Hillside Country Club. It’s a great way to acknowledge the contribution of a member of our community who makes a difference. We’ve made it easy to nominate your friend/neighbor. Just click on the recognition night link in the upcoming events section of our website and fill out the online form. Please submit early in advance of the April 13th deadline https://rehobothlions.org/event/russell-latham-citizensrecognition-night/.
Special guests at our March 19th meeting at the Hamilton Diner included State Representative Steven Howitt and six students from the Dighton Rehoboth Regional High School DECA program. Ten students won the district competition and were invited to present their projects at the state level. The Rehoboth Lions Club was proud to fund the gap that existed after the club’s fundraising activities so the six Rehoboth students could attend the competition. At our meeting, DECA Program Coordinator Patricia Madsen and six of the ten who competed presented their projects to Representative Howitt and our club.
Our Health and Welfare committee continues to provide free use of durable medical equipment for our neighbors in need. If you need any assistance, please contact Ray Olivier or Steve Brasier!
Our annual chicken barbecue is coming soon. The event happens on June1, 2025, please see a Lion for tickets. Enjoy a great meal and help the Lions support the community at the same time!
For the golfers in the area, please mark your calendars for Saturday, September 20th, 2025, at the Swansea Country Club!
Please visit the Rehoboth Lions Club website at www.rehobothLions.org
Proud to be serving our community as president of the Rehoboth Lions Club.
- Don Nokes
D-R DECA students Isabella, Christiana, Phoenix, Gary, Haven and Domenic present their projects to the Rehoboth Lions Club (photos courtesy of Steve Brasier)
People In The News
Local 4H Club Member Takes on the Challenge of a Lifetime in Extreme Mustang Makeover
Zach Pora, a 13-year-old from Seekonk, is proving that dedication, patience, and a little bit of grit can turn a wild mustang into a well-trained partner. A proud and active member of the City Slickers 4-H Club, Zach embarked on an incredible journey when he traveled to Tennessee in December 2024 to pick up his untamed mustang for the 2025 Extreme Mustang Makeover competition.
Since then, Zach has been working tirelessly to build trust with his mustang, Willow in the Wind or also known by her barn name, Willow. Over the months, their bond has grown strong, with Zach proving that age is just a number when it comes to horsemanship. Once wild and wary, Willow has transformed into a calm and responsive companion under Zach’s patient guidance.
The Extreme Mustang Makeover is a highly anticipated event where trainers of all ages take on the challenge of taming and training a wild horse in just a few months. In June, Zach and Willow will head to Kentucky to compete against other trainers, showcasing their progress through a series of events designed to highlight the horse’s skills, responsiveness, and overall transformation.
For those eager to follow along, Zach and his team have launched a YouTube series called Taming the Wild, where viewers can watch his progress, from the first nervous introductions to the incredible breakthroughs along the way. His journey is not just about competition—it’s about patience, perseverance, and the deep bond between a horse and its rider.
As June approaches, Zach continues to refine his training with Willow, preparing for the big event with the same passion and determination that have defined his journey so far. One thing is certain: no matter the outcome, he and Willow have already won in the ways that truly matter.
University News
Emerson College Student Matthew Kugel
Earns Dean’s List Honors for Fall 2024
Boston, MA -- Matthew Kugel of Seekonk is majoring in Journalism and is a member of the Emerson College Class of 2025.
The requirement to make the Dean’s List is a grade point average of 3.7 or higher for that semester.
Rivier University Announces Dean’s List
Kelsey Bain, of Rehoboth and DRRHS, was named to the Rivier University Dean’s List and the National Field Hockey Coaches Association Division III National Academic Squad for the Fall 2024 semester.
Local Residents Named to Simmons University Dean’s List
The following local residents have been named to the 2024 fall semester dean’s list at Simmons University in Boston.
* Sophia Wilcox, Seekonk
Zach Pora & Willow
Seekonk Public Library
www.seekonkpl.org
New Technology Class at Seekonk Library
What’s New with AI
Tuesday, April 15 from 2-3:30 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 explore a new topic for your mobile device to help you get started. Register and join Librarian Michelle Gario at the library for this upcoming new class topic:
Since we held our first class on Artificial Intelligence last year, it has become integrated into about every aspect of our online life. Join Librarian Michelle Gario in this 90 minute session as we look at some of the ways we can and do interact with AI.
You must bring your own device; make sure the device is fully charged. Space is limited; registration with a SAILS library card 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
Creative Workshop Using Mandala Dotting
Thursday, April 17 at 6 PM
Bring some spring flowers to life on canvas in this creative workshop! Artist Beth Goulet will lead you step by step through the process of creating a Mandala by using tools to create dots of different sizes and colors. This is a beginner level class, no experience necessary. Space is limited; pre-registration with a SAILS library card is required. Register in the Events Calendar at www. seekonkpl.org/events. This program is free through the generosity of a grant from the Seekonk Cultural Council, a local agency that is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council. For more information call Adult Services at 508-336-8230 x56130 or email library@seekonkpl.org.
Junk Journal Workshop
Tuesday, April 22 at 6:00 PM
Junk journals are “art with heart,” an opportunity to get creative while conserving resources and appreciating the little things. In this workshop, you’ll make your own junk journal using found supplies like old books, magazines, envelopes, and stamps. You’ll learn a simple no-sew/no-punch binding technique that gives you the flexibility to let your imagination run wild! Supplies will be provided, but feel free to bring in personal paper mementos from home that you might like to include in your journal, either as repurposed journal pages or as decorations.
This program is free and open to the public; for planning and to be notified of program updates please register in our new Events Calendar at seekonk-ma.whofi.com/calendar. For more information, call Adult Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email library@seekonkpl.org.
Nostalgia Night: The Fascinating History of the Beer Can
April 23 at 6 PM
Who says history is boring? Join us for a fun perspective on history in History of the Beer Can, a unique pop-up museum experience. Curator Kevin Logan will bring an impressive assortment of cans from the museum based in Southeastern Massachusetts including novelty cans, tv and movie props, and more. In this familyfriendly presentation you’ll enjoy the history, art, and humor of beer
cans with a focus on local breweries. Come enjoy trivia and door prizes from this one of a kind regional collection. This event is free and open to the public through sponsorship from the Friends of the Seekonk Public Library. For planning purposes and to receive important program updates, please 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.
Oscar Buzz Movie
Thursday, April 24 at 5 PM
Catch up on some of the predicted Oscar contenders with us! Come and watch this new DVD release for FREE at Seekonk Public Library: Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande star in this prequel to the beloved musical The Wizard of Oz. Rated PG, Runtime 2 hours 40 minutes.
Selections are subject to change based on availability. Licensing prevents us from printing titles; call the library at 508-336-8230 ext. 56130 or email library@seekonkpl.org for the title and other details. Register in the calendar at seekonkpl.org/events for planning purposes and to receive important program updates.
Build a Strong Financial Foundation with Beginning Banking & Credit
Wednesday, April 30th at 6:00 PM
Lessons about managing money don’t always need to come the hard way. Come to this free event Beginner Banking & Credit to help build a stronger financial future, no matter your age. Kurt Jamiel from the Association of Financial Educators will give you the personal finance knowledge you’ve been missing, a subject still not required to be taught in schools. You’ll learn about credit scores, banking, and why Einstein called compound interest “the eighth wonder of the world. He who understands it, earns it; he who doesn’t, pays it.” Register in the calendar at seekonkpl.org/events for planning purposes and to receive important program updates. Please do share with families and young adults just starting out with their own money as well. For more information, visit www.seekonkpl. org or email library@seekonkpl.org.
Boston Bruins Pajama Drive a Success
Representatives from Seekonk Library, Police, and Fire Departments celebrate the success of the town-wide Boston Bruins Pajama Drive, which collected an incredible 885 pairs of pajamas—far surpassing the initial goal of 300. This achievement was made possible through the generosity of the public, town employees, Town Hall, Public Safety and Human Services. This marks Seekonk Library’s 9th year participating in the Drive and the first year as a community-wide effort.
Teen Services
3D Printing Workshop
Tuesday, April 1 & 15 at 5:00 PM–7:00 PM
Join freelance IT consultant and STEM educator Peter Ferlazzo for a 2-part workshop series on 3D printing! Session One will cover the basics of 3D design, including use of the free online 3D design platform Tinkercad. Session Two will cover the process of preparing and printing a design, such as slicing, scaffolding, and fill settings. We’ll get to see a 3D printer demonstration during the workshop, and students’ completed designs will be printed following the program for pick up at a later date. No 3D design experience is necessary.
This 2-part, 2-hour in-person event is free and open to tweens and teens in grades 6 through 12. Space is limited and registration is required. Please register separately for both sessions. If you cannot make both sessions, please contact the Teen Services Department about registering for only one session. Sign up using our new Events Calendar at seekonkpl.org/events. For more information, call Teen Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email teens@seekonkpl.org.
Make Your Own Mindfulness Journal
Thursday, April 17 at 3:00 PM–4:30 PM
Take some time, take a breath, and take care of yourself. Local wellness expert Maria Holme will share tips and techniques for taking a proactive role in your own wellbeing. She’ll discuss ways to organize your thoughts and nurture a positive, creative outlook, and she’ll walk you through the process of designing your own hard-bound journal to help you pursue these goals. This program is sponsored by the Seekonk Cultural Council, a local agency funded by the MA Cultural Council, a state agency.
This 90-minute event is free and open to tweens and teens in grades 6 through 12. Space is limited and registration is required. Sign up using our new Events Calendar at seekonkpl.org/events. For more information, call Adult Services at the library at (508) 3368230 or email teens@seekonkpl.org.
Youth Services
Kid Librarian of the Month April 1-30
Ages 7-12. Stop by the Children’s Room to fill out an application to become the Kid Librarian of the Month. As a Kid Librarian, you will receive an official t-shirt and be in charge of creating a book display with a theme of your choice. You will also make a sign to accompany the display. If chosen, you will be contacted by email or phone. All applications will remain on file.
Kindness Club: Seeds of Kindness April 1-30
All ages, drop-in. Visit the library to pick up your free seed package and bring a little green to your home. These seeds are not only a gift to your garden, but also a way to help the birds, bees, and our environment thrive. By planting these seeds, you are nurturing nature and spreading kindness all around. While supplies last.
Beyblade Club
Wed, April 9, 4:30 PM
Grades 1-5. Drop in. We will have free play time to battle (bring your Beyblades and stadiums or use the library’s limited supply). Come battle some Beyblades and meet some new friends!
Time to Rhyme!
Friday, April 11, 3:30-4:30 PM
Grades 1-4. It’s Poetry Month! Let’s write some Rhymes! We will read rhyming poems and limericks. Discuss which ones we like and dislike and why. Then together write a rhyming poem, limerick, and villanelle poem. Please register.
Paws to Read
Wednesday, April 16 & 30, 3-4:30 PM (timeslots)
Grades 1-5. Build reading skills and gain confidence in reading aloud! Register to reserve a 15-minute time slot to have your child
read to Gizmo and Pepe, two adorable chihuahua/pomeranian mix therapy dogs. Research has shown that reading aloud to another person can help struggling readers with their overall performance and confidence. But did you know that reading comprehension improves even more when reading to a dog rather than an adult? It’s true! Each one-on-one private session is facilitated by Sandra Healey and her two dogs. Space is limited. Register.
Little Explorers Sensory Playgroup
Saturday, April 19 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
All kids ages 2-5 with a caregiver. Drop in to play with various toys and unique materials to engage the senses and support the development of motor, memory, communication, and problemsolving skills in a fun and welcoming environment.
SCHOOL VACATION SPECIALS POW Science! Geology Rocks!
Tuesday, April 22, 10:00-11:00 AM
Grades 2-5. Celebrate Earth Day with a fun, hands-on geology adventure! Geology Rocks! is an interactive program designed for kids to explore the world of rocks, minerals, and rock hunting. After learning basic mineral identification techniques, kids can solve the mystery of several “unknown minerals” using classic field geology methods. Register.
Scribblebots w/Professor Gizmo’s Workshop
Wednesday, April 23, 10 AM
Grades 1-5. Create your own drawing bot! Use our recycled materials to design your own crazy character. Outfitted with colored markers, a motor, and an offset weight, it wobbles around the paper making really cool patterns! Registration is required.
Needlefelting for Kids
Thursday, April 24, 10 AM
Grades 3-5. Kids are invited to join Ms Sandie in this one-hour needle felting class to learn beginner needle felting techniques! Kids will work on completing a wool-felted landscape.
Family Birdhouse Build
Friday, April 25 10:00-11:00 AM
Ages 5+. Celebrate Earth Day by creating a new home for your neighborhood birds. Together you will build and decorate your birdhouse. Please register one spot per family.
STORYTIMES
Baby Storytime
Tuesdays, April 1, 8, 15
Ages 0-18 Months. Bring a small baby blanket for the floor and enjoy a book followed by music, fingerplays & movement. Babies will be free to crawl through a tunnel, play with toys, read a board book, and enjoy some bubbles with you. Drop in.
Toddler Storytime
Mondays, April 7, 14
Ages 18-36 months. The storytime will include a book or two followed by music, fingerplays, movement, and yes, even bubbles!
Planting Seeds of Love Storytime
Tuesday, April 29, 10:00 - 11:00 AM
Ages 2-6. Join the Seekonk Public Library and CFCE program for a spring storytime and seed-planting activity! This is a parentchild event Families will plant seeds together and listen to a planting story or two. Take your decorated pots home and watch your plants bloom as we welcome spring! Registration required.
Storytime on the Go April 1st-30th
Create a storytime experience at home. Each packet will include books and an age-appropriate literacy activity. The early literacy activities will support one or more of the five early literacy practices: talking, singing, reading, writing, and playing. Packets are available for toddlers and preschoolers
News and Notes from... Blanding Library
By Leslie Patterson
Coming Up This Spring
Computer Advice: How to Protect Yourself from Your Computer with Marc-Anthony Arena in person, Sat. April 5 at 2 pm. This program will offer lots of tech advice in plain English from a 25-year veteran of the IT industry based in Rochester, New York. Free and open to all.
Craft Program: Decoupage Cigar Boxes. Daisy Gilmore will lead a craft session on Thurs. April 9 at 6:30 at the library. Choose from a variety of materials and decorations to make a unique keepsake from a cigar box. A fee of $5 will cover the class and all materials. For ages 15 and up.
For further information and last-minute program announcements, you can find details about upcoming programs and events on the Blanding website https://rehobothantiquarian.org/blanding-library/
Music at Goff Hall
The Blanding is sponsoring free music performances at Goff Hall this spring.
• Jumpin’ Juba, a Boston-based blues and roots duo, plays on Sun. April 6 at 2 pm.
• Matt York’s “Songs and Stories of the Great Willie Nelson” will be on Sun. May 4 at 2 pm.
• Andrew Lewis Parks and Margaret Ferri’s performance will feature “Songs and Stories from the Singer-Songwriters, 19601975” on Sun. May 18 at 2 pm.
April Programs for Kids
• Hands on Nature presents a program about big predators on Thurs. April 24 at 10 am.
• Little Yoga Gentle Mindfulness, a program for families with Rebecca Mele will be on Mon. April 28 at 10:30.
Climate Change Workshops
Rehoboth resident Noelle Blaise will present two workshops on climate change for children that will include a craft or scavenger hunt. They will be held on April 19 and May 10, from 11 to 12:30 and are for children ages kindergarten through grade 3. The May 19 program includes creating your own small terrarium.
Noelle is a Girl Scout working towards her Gold Award. She plans to build an interactive wooden gameboard for the community focusing on climate change and the effects it has on animals.
Tot Times and Story Hours
Tuesday Tot Time is held at 10:30 and is designed for babies and toddlers (up to age 3). Thursday Story & Craft Time is held at 10:30 and is designed for preschoolers ages 3 to 5. The next LEGOs will be on Saturday April 12, from 11 to 2 and is a drop-in program for all ages.
Bunnies in Disguise, a Spring Scavenger Hunt!
Celebrate Easter by finding all the literary bunnies hiding in the library, now through April 19. See if you can find them all. What a great way to welcome Spring!
History Discussions
Hank Coleman’s history discussion group on the Ancient Greeks continues each Wednesday morning at 11. Open to all adults with an interest in history. For more information, contact hjcoleman@ comcast.net.
The Blanding Public Library, 124 Bay State Rd, is open Monday through Thursday from 10 to 8, and Fridays and Saturdays from 10 to 4. Closed Sundays and holidays, including Monday April 21 for Patriots’ Day. Phone 508-252-4236. https://rehobothantiquarian. org/blanding-library/
The only thing you absolutely have to know is the location of the library. -Albert Einstein
Seekonk Human Services
The center is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 8:30am - 4:30pm, and Wednesday 8:30am - 5:30pm and Friday 8:30am - 12:00pm. We welcome all to come and enjoy the activities and companionship at Seekonk Human Services.
Holiday Hours
Closed on Monday, April 21, 2025
Smooth R&B and Hip Hop Line Dance
Wed, April 9th at 11:30am
Seniors come on down! Move and groove to smooth R&B Hip Hop music tunes. This class is about an hour and is especially designed for seniors. There is some evidence in current research that suggests that physical activity can slow down the decline of cognitive disabilities and may improve the quality of senior life. Preregistration is required. *This program is supported by a grant from the Seekonk Cultural Council.
Hearing Clinic
Mon, April 14th 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Lauren Warburton from At Home Hearing Healthcare will be here for a Hearing Clinic. At Home Hearing Healthcare is a mobile Hearing Instrument Specialist team with over 38 years of experience. They specialize in detecting and resolving issues with hearing loss. If their Board-Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist detect a hearing loss, the individual will be advised regarding the next steps for pursuing proper treatment. For individuals who do not have hearing loss, this screening establishes a valuable baseline to measure any future issues. They offer services in the comfort and security of your own home. They do accept MassHealth. Preregistration is required.
Willie Nelson Songs and Stories
With Matt York
Wednesday, April 16th at 1:00pm
Longtime New England singer and songwriter Matt York will perform songs and tell stories about the great Willie Nelson. Matt York will focus on Willie’s long and illustrious music career that has spanned over seven decades. In both 2022 and 2023, Matt was nominated for the Boston Music Award for Best Country Artist and last year, his album, Gently Used, was named one of the top albums by The Patriot Ledger. Preregistration is required. *This program is supported by a grant from the Seekonk Cultural Council.
Spring Gathering
Entertainment by Dave Valerio
Wednesday, April 23rd at 11:30am
Join us for our Spring Gathering with entertainment by Dave Valerio. Dave Valerio
is a Seekonk native and a former longtime resident. Dave Valerio is an entertainer, keyboardist and vocalist that sings Neil Diamond, Frank Sinatra, Kenny Rogers and so much more! This is sure to be a great time. Lunch will be chicken salad sandwiches, pasta salad, chips and dessert. The cost will be $10 for Seekonk residents and $13 non-residents. Dessert sponsored by First Light Homecare. Preregistration is required.
Let’s Play Backgammon
Starting Monday, April 28th 1:00pm
What is the oldest living board game? Backgammon, played by three-hundred million people worldwide. Learn everything from basic rules to advanced strategies with our resident expert who trained in Greece and Turkey as a young man. Enjoy open gaming with others. All levels are welcome. Preregistration required.
Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia
Monday, April 28th at 2:00pm
Alzheimer’s disease is a degenerative brain disease and the most common cause of dementia. Alzheimer’s disease is a type of dementia that affects memory, thinking and behavior. Symptoms eventually grow severe enough to interfere with daily tasks. Worldwide, 55 million people are living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Join us on Monday, April 28th at 2pm for a presentation on “Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia” with our Public Health Nurse Lisa Valente, RN CDOE along with a representative from the Alzheimer’s Association. Preregistration is required.
Healthy Aging Lunch & Learn
Wednesday, April 30th at 11:30am
Join us for Food Safety Bingo by Bristol Aging and Wellness Registered Dietitian, Dawn DiMarco. Lunch will be macaroni and cheese with broccoli, dinner rolls and dessert for those who attend. Preregistration is required.
Let’s Learn Together!
Tuesday, April 22th at 2:30pm
Do you have questions about using your smartphone or tablet? Bring them to the Tech Help Hour. The goal of this session is to help each other learn how to use technology better. There is no set agenda. This program is provided by Seekonk Public Library staff. Bring your own tablet, phone or
laptop. Please make sure your device is fully charged. Preregistration is required.
You are cordially invited to attend a Silver Tea
Honoring women in Seekonk age 75 and older
Wed, May 14th @ 12:00 noon
The Tea will be held at Seekonk Senior Center and hosted by Seekonk Human Services & Funded by Friends of Friends Community Services Inc.
Limited Seating Available. Register at 508-336-8772 starting April 15. Registration ends May 2.
*Seekonk Residents Only*
*Reservation required
Oil Painting
Fridays from 9:30am—11:30am
Join Seekonk Human Services every Friday for Oil Painting. From beginners to experienced painters, all skill levels welcome. Contact Seekonk Human Services today to register. Instructor led on the 1st and 3rd Friday of the month. Cost: $3 for residents and $5 for non-residents due upon registration. Class members need to bring their own supplies, supply list available.
Encore Casino
Boston Harbor
Wednesday, April 30, 2025
Price: $42.00 Per Person
Depart 8:30am / Return Approx. 5:30pm
540 Arcade Avenue, Seekonk, MA
The casino at Encore Boston Harbor brings glamour on a grand scale to the riverfront. Enter the main floor– open and airy, colorful and vibrant… Try your luck with 2,800+ slot machines, including classic favorites, automated tables and the newest game titles. Enjoy 166 table games, all at state-of-the-art tables with superior service. It all adds up to an exciting, memorable five-star experience unlike anywhere else in Boston. Trip includes: deluxe motorcoach transportation, gratuity, casino time: 10am4pm. Casino Pkg. $20 free slot play. (Casino package subject to change) Payment due at registration.
Boston Bingo Cruise
Wednesday, August 13, 2025
Price: $105 Seekonk Residents
$110 Non-Residents
Depart 9am / Return: Approx 3:30pm
Enjoy the Boston skyline with a twohour cruise. Enjoy a delicious lunch. Fullbar including cocktails, wine and beer for
purchase. Onboard entertainment includes topside open-air lounge for games and relaxation. Three games of bingo with prizes. Onboard DJ entertainment. Trip includes: deluxe motorcoach transportation, gratuity, 2 hour cruise and buffet luncheon. Payment due at registration.
Tuesday Luncheon at
12:00pm
Seekonk Human Services has partnered with The Hamilton Diner to offer weekly lunches! Lunches will cost $7 for residents and $8 for nonresidents. The menu will be available at the office and on Facebook. On the last Tuesday of each month, we will be celebrating Seekonk Senior’s birthday. On your birth month you will only pay $2.00 for that lunch (Seekonk residents only).
Nutritional Meals to Go
Tues / Wed / Thurs
Bristol Elder Services provides nutritional meals for lunch on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays to go. Meals come completely cooked and prepackaged. Meals need to be ordered the day before by 9:30am. Suggested donation of $2.25 per meal which will be due at the time of pickup. The April menu is available at our office and on our Facebook page.
Mother’s Day Ice Cream Social
Monday, May 5th at 2:00pm
Let’s celebrate with an ice cream social! Come on down to enjoy some ice cream inside or outside on the picnic tables (weather pending) and good company. This event is open to all! Seekonk women are FREE. Men and non-residents are $2. Preregistration is required. Registration begins April 15.
Chief Meteorologist Mark Searles
Wednesday, May 7th at 11:30am
WJAR’s Chief Meteorologist Mark Searles will be discussing the weather and how it works. He has spent more than 20 years as a meteorologist. Mark holds the AMS Broadcast Seal of Approval, has been nominated for several Boston/New England Emmy awards for Weathercasting. Preregistration is required. Registration begins April 15.
Larry Houser Team Trivia
Monday, May 12th at 2pm
Come join Larry Houser for Team Trivia! Not-so-hard questions about just about everything—movies, music, animals, old expressions, advertising from the 1960s and 70s. Come as a team of 2, 3 or 4 or come alone and we’ll find a team for you! Gift card prizes to all players on the winning team. Preregistration is required. Registration beings April 15.
Botanical Wellness
Monday, May 19th at 2pm
Rena Raggiani representing Nurses with a Mission, a collaborative group of wellness professionals. Rena is an advocate and Director for Green Compass Health and Wellness Botanicals. Educating about the goodness of plant-based wellness and concentration hemp and functional mushrooms. This plant has helped many for hundreds of years, from our littles to our seniors in a natural holistic help. Hemp may help reduce inflammation and pain, help with sleep, digestive health, heart health, anxiousness and so much more. Preregistration is required. Registration begins April 15.
A Musical Journey Through the Years
By Tommy Rull
Wednesday, May 21st at 1pm
Take a walk down memory lane. Enjoy the music of Frank Sinatra, Neil Diamond, Kenny Rogers, Paul Anka, Barry Manilow, Elvis Presley, Perry Como, Lou Rawls, Engelbert Humperdinck and many more. *This program is supported by a grant from the Seekonk Cultural Council. Registration is required. Registration begins April 15.
Healthy Aging Lunch & Learn
Wednesday, May 28th at 11:30am
Join us for nutrition for Diabetes by Bristol Aging and Wellness Registered Dietitian, Dawn Di-Marco. Lunch will be chicken salad, pasta salad, three bean salad and desert for those who attend. Preregistration required. Registration beings April 15.
Telephone Reassurance Program
Our office will make a telephone call to an individual’s home at approximately the same time each day Monday through Friday (during our operating business hours only). This program is designed to connect people in need with ongoing, caring human contact and conversation. If we do not receive an answer, we will call back shortly after. If we do not receive an answer the second time, Public Safety will be called to check on the individual’s status. The Telephone Reassurance Program provides a peace of mind for the individual and their loved ones. This program is designed for senior citizens, disabled persons and shut-ins living in Seekonk who may be at risk of loneliness, social isolation, illness or injury. If you, or you know someone you know is interested in this program, please call Nicole at Human Services at 508-336-8772.
Medical Loan Closet
Our FREE Medical Loan Closet is available for Seekonk residents. Our inventory is dependent on donated items received, but may be limited based on need and space. For more information, please call 508-3368772 *30 Day Rental
Exercise Classes
Mondays
Movement & Meditation 10am
Strength & Cardio 1pm
Tuesdays
Drums Alive 9am
Wednesdays
Stability and Balance 8:45am
Drums Alive 9:30am
Thursdays
Mat Exercise 9am
Movement & Meditation 10am
Fridays
Dance Cardio 9:15am
Tai Chi 10:30am
*All activities are subject to pre-registration
Games
Play an old favorite or learn something new!
• Canasta - Mondays at 11am A card game of the Rummy family
• Hi-Low Jack (Pitch) - Tuesdays & Thursdays at 1pm. Win the game by having the highest card played in the trump suit
• Mahjong - Wednesdays at 1pm. Mahjong is a game of skill and chance that originated in China
• Cribbage - Thursdays at 11am. The first person to peg 121 points and get to the end of the board is the winner
• BINGO - Thursdays at 1pm. Regular games $1.00 for 6 games Specials $2.00 per game A game of chance played with cards having numbered squares corresponding to numbers drawn at random
Email List
Join our email list! Things are changing so quickly these days and we want to be able to get the word out to you quickly. Please give us a call and give us your email address; we want to share fun activities, links to zoon and other virtual programing you may like.
The center is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 8:30am - 4:30pm, Wednesday 8:30am - 5:30pm and Friday 8:30am12:00pm. Come and enjoy the activities and companionship at your center. Join our email list! Things are changing quickly these days and we want to be able to get the word out to you quickly. Please give us a call and give us your email address. We want to share fun activities, links to Zoom and virtual programs.
Rehoboth Ramblings
by Leslie Patterson
The Original Patriots’ Day
This April marks the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Lexington, the first battle of the American Revolution. Both Concord and Lexington are having special (but separate) events to commemorate this historic date over Patriots’ Day weekend.
Filmmaker Ken Burns will be on hand in Lexington to discuss his new series on the American Revolution premiering on PBS later this year. At noon on that Monday re-enactors representing Paul Revere and William Dawes will ride horseback into Concord. (Let’s not forget that William Dawes also rode on the night of April 18, but he didn’t get a poem in his honor.)
Both the Minuteman National Historical Park and the Concord Museum are always worth visiting by anyone with an interest in American history, but the weekend of April 19-21 should be special. You can find a list of all the activities on https://visitconcord.org/ concord-250 and at https://lex250.org.
Another name for a 250th anniversary is a semiquincentennial, for those with a residual interest in Latin. I remember when I was a child and Ohio was having its 150th anniversary of statehood, I thought that “sesquicentennial” was such fun to say. My own interest in the American Revolution was taken to another level when my sister, while doing genealogy research, discovered that we had colonial-era ancestors at the Battle of Bunker Hill.
In case anyone has forgotten the reason for Patriots Day, this is from the Concord website: “On the morning of April 19, 1775, approximately seventy members of Lexington’s town militia faced down eight hundred British troops on the Lexington Green. The British were marching to Concord, where they expected to confiscate a stockpile of weapons intended to be used for rebellion. The troops stopped on the Lexington Green and faced the Lexington militia. A shot was fired. Nobody knows who fired that shot, but with it and with the ensuing musket fire, the American Revolution began. The Battle of Lexington was brief, but resulted in the deaths of eight colonists. The British marched on to Concord, where they faced a much larger group of colonists, from all over the area, at the North Bridge. The Revolutionary War would end six years later with a colonial victory in 1781 and the birth of the United States of America.”
Ralph Waldo Emerson’s “Concord Hymn” (first read on July 4, 1838 on the dedication of the battlefield monument) commemorates this momentous event in American history, in a poem memorized by many school children in days gone by: “By the rude bridge that arched the flood/Their flag to April’s breeze unfurled/Here once the embattled farmers stood/And fired the shot heard round the world.” Patriots’ Day is a good time to remember what our Founding Fathers worked so hard for and what our Massachusetts ancestors went through during the American Revolution.
In a time of turmoil and chaos in the nation’s capital, it is important to recall the idea of democracy that our Founding Fathers fought for. The story goes that when Benjamin Franklin was asked by someone in Philadelphia what type of government the Constitutional Convention had adopted, his cautionary response was: “A republic, if you can keep it.” That is the question. We don’t have a king. A democracy is supposed to be governed by officials elected by the people.
Fourscore and seven years later Abraham Lincoln memorably said: “government of the people, by the people, for the people shall not perish from the earth” in his Gettysburg Address. Early in his political career (in 1838) Lincoln gave an address in Springfield, Illinois in which he said, “Let every American, every lover of liberty, every well-wisher to his posterity, swear by the blood of the Revolution, never to violate in the least particular, the laws of the country; and never to tolerate their violation by others. As the patriots of seventy-six did to the support of the Declaration of Independence, so to the support of the Constitution and Laws, let every American … remember that to violate the law, is to trample on the blood of his father, and to tear the character of his own, and his children’s liberty.”
Another famous quote about democracy comes from Winston Churchill, who was American on his mother’s side, “No one pretends that democracy is perfect or all-wise. Indeed, it has been said that democracy is the worst form of government except for all those other forms that have been tried.”
Let’s try to keep it.
SCOUTING AROUND
Seekonk Scouts March Activities
Seekonk scouts continue to be active, with a busy March schedule filled with fun. The scouts started March off with snow tubing at Nashoba Valley Tubing Park in Littleton, MA. They spent a few hours enjoying the winter weather and delighting in the snow.
The scouts continued the March activities with a three-night weekend cabin camping trip. During the camping trip, scouts learned the basics of backpacking in preparation for an upcoming April backpacking trip. Scouts learned about essential backpacking equipment and supplies, how to efficiently pack a backpack, how to properly carry a backpack, and the importance of appropriate footwear and attire.
In addition to the weekend activities, Seekonk scouts held their weekly meetings. During the meetings, scouts learned basic skills necessary for all scouts, handed out positions of responsibility, and continued to plan for upcoming trips and fundraisers. Positions of responsibility are leadership roles within scouting. Some positions of responsibility include assignments such as Patrol Leader, Scribe, Historian, and Quartermaster. Positions of responsibility are periodically rotated, allowing scouts to learn new skills and interests.
In addition to planning for upcoming trips and fundraisers, scouts began discussing and planning a High Adventure trip for 2026. Scouting High Adventure is a specialized seasonal program that can include backpacking, camping activities, and ocean adventures, among many other opportunities.
Seekonk Scouts have tentatively planned fundraising car washes for April 19, May 10, and June 7 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at First Home Mortgage on Central Avenue, Seekonk.
For more information about Seekonk Scouts, contact troop1seekonkma@gmail.com for boys or Troop9SeekonkMA@gmail.com for girls. Scouts are open to all boys and girls between 11 and 17.
Girl Scouts of Southeastern New England Enjoyed Successful Ninth Annual Cookies & Cocktails Event!
On March 6, 2025, Girl Scouts of Southeastern New England (GSSNE) celebrated our ninth annual Cookies & Cocktails event at Farm Fresh RI in Providence. Guests enjoyed delicious dessert and cocktail samples from local restaurants and bars, participated in silent and live auctions, enjoyed live music, and heard from our wonderful emcee, Mario Hilario, News Anchor at NBC 10 WJAR and GSSNE Board Member!
We partnered with some of the best Rhode Island restaurants and bars: Jefferson Speakeasy, The Coast Guard House, Boat House, Waterman Grille, Bettola, Wright’s Creamery, The Cocktail Guru, Apponaug Brewing Company, Sippin’ Pretty, Allie’s Donuts, and Ocean State Oyster Co. We are so grateful for the wonderful
restaurants and mixologists who joined us, and we thank them for their creativity in utilizing tasty Girl Scout Cookies “out of the box”. With the help of our incredible attendees, event sponsors, silent auction donors, silent auction and live auction purchasers, we raised over $50,000! “On behalf of Girl Scouts of Southeastern New England, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks for joining us at the 9th annual Cookies & Cocktails event! Because of your generosity, we are one step closer to making sure that every child who wants to be a Girl Scout can be a Girl Scout. We hope you enjoyed the delicious cookie-inspired creations from our talented local chefs, the wonderful company, and the inspiring stories of how Girl Scouting is making a difference in our community. Your participation truly makes an impact!” said GSSNE COO, Ginger Lallo. Events like Cookies & Cocktails directly support our high-level programming focusing on mental health and well-being, camperships for youth in foster care, and making Girl Scouting accessible to all who want to participate. When you support Girl Scouts, you support a future leader who has—through Girl Scouting—built a foundation for success and leadership.
Girl Scouts bring their dreams to life and work together to build a better world. Through programs across Southeastern New England, girls and genderexpansive youth of all backgrounds and abilities can be unapologetically themselves in a safe space as they discover their strengths and rise to meet new challenges. Backed strong friendships and trusted adult volunteers, mentors, and millions of alums, Girl Scouts lead the way as they find their voices and make changes that affect the issues most important to them. Girl Scouts feel comfortable trying new things without the pressure to be perfect, speaking their minds, and processing their emotions in healthy ways. They discover how being different makes them special, strengthens their sense of belonging, and, ultimately, makes them proud to be themselves. That’s the magic of Girl Scouting. To join us, volunteer, reconnect, or donate, visit gssne. org, follow @gssne on Instagram, follow @ GirlScoutsofSNE on Twitter, and like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GSSNE.
Landon Paquette Earns Rank of Eagle Scout
Landon Paquette of Annawon Council Boy Scouts of America’s Troop 45 Dighton has earned the highest rank, Eagle Scout. A ceremony in Taunton District Court was held on January 21, 2025. Landon has been involved in Scouting for many years; First as a Cub Scout in Pack 1 Rehoboth then he joined Troop 3 N Dighton then Troop 45 Dighton in early 2024 when Troop 3 disbanded. Landon’s Eagle Scout project entailed building picnic tables for Beckwith Middle School under the guidance of Grandfather Paul Provencher, also an Eagle Scout. Landon would like to thank his fellow scouts and parents of
Troop 45 and former Troop 3 for all their help. The materials were generously donated by Mike from M.G. Salois Construction. Landon is the son of Pete and Emily Paquette of Rehoboth. Landon is a senior at Dighton Rehoboth Regional High School and is looking forward to attending Wentworth Institute of Technology in the Fall.
Local Scout Earns Certification in Scuba Diving
Alex diving
Hello, my name is Alex and I live in Bristol County, Massachusetts. Last summer when I was twelve years old I got certified in scuba diving at East Bay Dive Center, Warren, RI. My instructors were Mark and Kevin. They were great instructors and were able to get me through the entire process easily and quickly. Learning to scuba dive with Mark and Kevin was very fun and exiting. They are very good with young students. Mark was my primary dive instructor and did extra dives with me. He also spent a lot of his time helping me learn. Mark taught me to scuba dive at Fort Wetherill and Fort Adams in Rhode Island. During my training dives I saw many colorful fish and even a large starfish. I also made friends of all ages during my training.
I recommend getting certified at East Bay Dive Center with Mark and Kevin because I had a great time! Now I am trying to expand my goals and learn more!
East Bay Dive Center can be contacted at (401) 247-2420.
Rehoboth Girl Scout Troop #507 earned their dance badges with Empower Dance Industry. Thank you for teaching the girls!
Rehoboth Girl Scout Troop #507 enjoyed learning to sew at Loraine’s Stitch ‘n’ Craft. The girls learned to use sewing machines, and they sewed buttons onto coin purses. A big thank you to Ms. Lorraine!
Landon Paquette
New picnic tables for Beckwith Middle School
SCHOOL
Beckwith Middle School Students
Congratulations to 8thgrade chorus students Cole Nystrom and Abbie Oldmixon for representing Beckwith Middle School at the 2025 Junior District Music Festival on March 7th and 8th at Hingham Middle School. Under the direction of guest conductor Ms. Destiny Cooper, they joined fellow middle and high school musicians from Southeastern Massachusetts to rehearse and perform a diverse selection of choral pieces. The two-day festival culminated in a concert enjoyed by family and friends.
Beckwith Middle School Math Team
On March 14th, the Beckwith Middle School Math Team delivered an impressive performance at the Massasoit League Math Meet, held at Beckwith on March 14th. Competing against teams from across the league, Beckwith secured 3rd place overall. Additionally, team member Deven Dagnese had an outstanding individual performance, earning the second highest score of the competition. Congratulations to the team on their achievement!
Cole Nystrom and Abbie Oldmixon
Beckwith Students at the Music Festival
Beckwith Math Team places Third Overall
Beckwith Middle School Trimester 2
High Honors
Grade 8: Gabrielle Assi, Nathan Auricchio, Zackary Bacon, Addison Bairos, Isabelle Bettencourt, Carli Castro, Desmond Clark, Madison Crosby, Deven Dagnese, Alyssa Daniels, Louis Diamond, Skyla DuVally, Vanessa Escobar, Tenley Ferreira, Haley Gomes, Felix Gore, Alicia Gouveia, Leah Hyder, Logan Jodet, Keegan Lay, Lyla Lewandowski, Eric Lin, Violet Lyons, Brooke Martel, Nathan Mayer, Mia Megan, Adriana Menezes, Abbie Oldmixon, Connor Ruhle, Alexander Warren, Ryan White, James Whittle
Grade 7: Charlotte Amaral, Khloe Amaral, Clara Arrigo, Benjamin Bourgoin, Dodge Caban, Cairone Crescenzo, Jocelyn Cameron, James Comins, Hallie Coyne, Manuel Daza-Portillo, Kellen Dietrich, Alaina DiPalma, Macy Frissell, Hayleigh Guthrie, Leland Hess, Zoya Holowka, Mirewether Holt, Mackenna Johnson, Lyla Mae Kinniburgh, Audrey Kreizinger, Lucas Laudati, Jameson Leon-
Grant, Charlotte Harris, Colton Hathaway, Juliana Hebert, Elliot Hess, Hadley Jodoin-Blais, Emily Johnson, Kai Johnson, Austin Kaszyk, Owen Lay, Olivia Leffort, Mila Lewis, Logan Luedke, Ophelia MacKenzie, Bria McVicker, Alina Mello-Sattler, Blake Middleton, Courtney Middleton, Ella Perry, Gianna Perry, Olivia Pimento, Lucas Rabelo, Jaliyah Raphino, Jaxson Rosa, Avery Sherman, Eliana Silva, William Sousa, Clive Tavares, Zackary Taylor, Gabriella Thompson, Hailey Titcomb, Lydia Trexler, Anika Verma, Emily Warren, Olivia White, Jason Zapata
Honors
Grade 8: Markos Andrade, Elsie Angel-Hayes, Jordan Arcisz, Stephen Bentley, Jamie Bergeron, Abigail Blenkush, Hayden Bonilla, James Boulay, Evan Cardoso, Justin Cartwright, Adam Cavanaugh, Benjamin Chartier, Carmela DaRosa Donato, Kyle DeDucca, Aaron DiPippo, Jax Fogel, Cassidy Hasenfratz, Brooke ard, Kassin Lewis, Dane Medeiros, Jason Mendoza, Chase Moniz, Jordan Nguyenie, Emma Oliver, Lila Owen, Thomas Pierce, Julia Pimento, Abigail Polychronis, Alexander Quin, Mitchell Ramos, Natalia Regan, Ella Sampson, Morgan Soares, Veda Tavares, Amelia Trexler, Amaya Turner
Grade 6: Mudassir Aga, Mason Angelini, Ethan Auricchio, Alyssa Bernardo, Ethan Botelho, Brycen Boucher, Audrey Brown, Nora Carroll, Anthony Chianese, Benjamin Cordeiro, Camden Fontaine, Milla Greene, Lucas Guite, Megan Kazanjian, David Kent, Ava Landry, Stella Levesque, Connor Levinson, Selene Ollivierre, Brooke Pento, Audrey Peterson, Caizzi Read, Andrew Roth, Owen Ruhle, Luca Salcone, Eleanor Santiago, Hunter Sienko, Calvin Silva, Julian Soares, Richard Wood
Grade 5: Albert Antonio, Alexis Assi, Sean Beagan, Ruby Beausoleil, Max Bodge, Hannah Boulay, Owen Boylan, Adrian Braga, Evan Chaput, Chloe Clement, Charlotte Costa, Eliot Crowshaw, Dax Dagnese, Decker D’Ambrosio, Lucas Darling, Camdyn DeGroot, Isla DiPalma, Abigail Dupuis, Lucy
Continued on next page...
Henriques, Connor Hoyle, Cara Iafrate, Gyor Jean-Louis, Lanie Kazanjian, Liam Kelley, Quinn Kotch, Reece Kotch, Serenity LaBelle, Cassidy Lawrence, Leah Levesque, Andrew Mandeville, Addison Mendes, Nicholas Miller, Cole Nystrom, Emma Owen, Mason Pattie, Meya Perry, Avery Quinones, Rada Raphino, Ethan Salisbury, Taylen Sequeira, Jenna Sidok, Alexandra Sousa, Violet Swicker, Blake Young
Grade 7: Charles Battistoni-Marks, Noah Beauregard, Alexander Benoit, Jason Bettencourt, Julia Cameron, Damon Carey, Amelia Choquette, Dylan Cordeiro, Patrick D’Aiello, Luke DeMoura, Kassidy Duarte, Andria Duffy, Kaylee DuVally, Juliana Franco, Wes Gill, Mason Gouveia, Korey Grant, Maximus Jarvis, Madison Johnson, Robert Johnson, Jade Lingard, Conor Lynch, Amelia McWain, Neayeika Neth, Andrew Oldmixon, Cecilia Oliveira, Ellie Prevost, Connor Quinn, Kinley Rhines, Zachary Robbio, Maeve Santos, Talan Saumweber, Finn Scamacca, Keegan Sellers, Jordan Steinkamp, John
Grade 6: Niko Andrade, Alexander Bacon, Aubree Bairos, Ava Benevides, Raina Benson, Madeleine Bentley, Julie Bergeron, William Botelho, Aubrey Brady, John Cameron, Trenton Carrasquillo, Allison Carson, Nathan Cordeiro, Hope DaPonte, Jackson Edington, Liam Enes, Zayden Estes, Nathan Faria, Adriana Farias, Xavier Feliciano, Avery Ferreira, Noah Fischman, Levi Garcia, Liam Jeffrey, Lucas Lesniak, Olivia Lewandowski, Farrah Lopes, Lila Magee, Paisley Malaguti, Mateo Marcucci, Michael Martins, Aubrey Medeiros, Madilyn Mourao, Connor O’Neill, Zachary Parker, Christian Peterson, Connor Pires, Reyah Powers, Maddix Ramos, Kaelyn Read, Hailey Resendes, Blake Rodrigues, Aubree Tansey, Stella Teodoro, Nicholas Thibeault, Rylie Vickey, Mackenzie Warren, Parker Webster
Grade 5: John Alves, George Assi, Callie Avila, Ian Baptista, Chloe Batchelder, Shaye Batchelder, Emma Bernardo, Lucas
Bernardo, Jolie Binetti, Ryder Bonilla, Luke Boudreau, Leah Boyle, Nathan Bradshaw, Rachel Cabral, Zachary Cadorette, Quinn Campbell, Dean Carey, Harper Cloutier, Mireya Cruz, Mariana Cunha, Evan D’Aiello, Amelia DaRosa, Avaleigh Deus, Dylan DoCouto, Ciana DuVally, Benjamin Farrell, Drew Fogel, Alexis Fuoco, Andrew Gagnon, Graham Greene, Ryleigh Guthrie, Skyler Hussey, Kenzie Lopes, Amelia Medeiros, Allison Mirra, Lila Nunes, Alexander Oliveira, Phoebe Owens, Audrianna Pacheco, Layla Perry, Alexandra Prachanronarong-Ellick, Brayden Rodrigues, Clinton Santry, Ainsley Scanlon, Jackson Seal, Brody Terraciano, Skyla Viera, Landon Whitten, Emmett Wright
RAS Awards Scholarship to Rehoboth Residents
It was with pleasure the Rehoboth Antiquarian Society recently awarded our 2024-2025 scholarship to two very worthy Rehoboth residents, Elliott Darowski and Jane Kostka.
Elliott is a Dighton Rehoboth Regional High School (DRRHS) graduate. He is currently enrolled at Bridgewater State University as an anthropology major with a concentration in public archaeology. Elliott was named to the dean’s list for the fall semester. While attending high school, Elliott volunteered at the Greenlock Therapeutic Riding Center in Rehoboth assisting occupational therapists. In October, Elliott also served as a volunteer at Rehoboth’s annual craft fair, Crafters Marketplace.
Jane Kostka graduated from DRRHS last year as the class Salutatorian and a National Merit Commended Scholar. Jane is currently enrolled at UMASS Dartmouth and plans to major in Art History and Math. She was named to the Chancellor’s List for the fall semester. She has also volunteered at the Greenlock Therapeutic Riding Center.
The RAS is accepting applications for the 2025-2026 second semester scholarship. Applicants must be planning to major in a field related to museum or library studies. This may include museum or library sciences, history, archaeology, anthropology, conservation, restoration, preservation, etc. Eligible students live in Rehoboth, or its surrounding communities, or have a significant connection to Rehoboth. Applicants should be enrolled in, or accepted by, an academic institution or an institution offering programs aligned with our mission. Eligible programs will lead to a degree or certificate. All applications will be considered on a case by case basis. Additional information and an application can be found on our website (https:// rehobothantiquarian.org/ras-scholarship/) The deadline for applications is Friday, June 20, 2025.
2025 RAS Scholarship Recipients
Palmer River Elementary School News
This month, the students and staff at Palmer River Elementary School have been keeping busy with a series of engaging and educational events that have brought the community together.
On the literacy front, students in grades 1-3 had the chance to experience a camping-themed literacy night. The event was a hit with both students and their families as they participated in a variety of creative and interactive literacy activities. From reading in the dark with flashlights to making character puppets, the evening was filled with learning and fun. As a sweet treat to end the night, students were delighted to receive a s’mores kit to take home and enjoy with their families, making for a memorable experience all around.
Meanwhile, our fourth graders had the opportunity to explore the natural world during a field trip to BIOMES, an educational science center. There, they learned about different habitats and the animals that call them home. The hands-on experience deepened their understanding of the environment and its ecosystems, sparking curiosity and inspiring them to learn more about the natural world.
In addition to these exciting events, Palmer River also hosted a well-attended Kindergarten Information Night. It was wonderful to see so many new families joining the Palmer River community. The evening gave parents and future students a chance to get to know what to expect in the coming school year, and we’re thrilled to welcome these new faces into our Palmer River Family.
It has certainly been a month of growth, excitement, and connection at Palmer River Elementary School, and the entire community is looking forward to the many more events and activities to come.
Seekonk School District and Project Bread Celebrate National School Breakfast Week
During National School Breakfast Week (March 3 – 7, 2025), Seekonk High School celebrated the impact that free school breakfast has on students each day. Staff members from statewide food security nonprofit Project Bread joined Steve Defonsca, School Nutrition Director, and Jen Sawfford, High School Kitchen Manager onsite on Thursday, March 6 at Seekonk High School to enjoy a school breakfast of strawberry banana smoothies, breakfast sandwiches, melons, parfaits, and fruit cups with granola.
Students who start their day with a nourishing school breakfast attend class ready to learn, score higher on tests, and have a higher attendance rate. In Seekonk, the high school is lifting up their nutritious “Second Chance” breakfast, available in the cafeteria for all students during the morning study period. On an average day, 180 students are served during Seekonk High School’s Second Chance breakfast. On Thursday, March 6, they served a record 225 students – including serving up samples of new apple pie and carrot cake overnight oats recipes. Students shared feedback in an online survey, and the apple pie oats were the clear winner.
A newly purchased merchandizing refrigerator elevated the school breakfast display while a commercial grade blender streamlined smoothie preparations. Both equipment setups were funded by a school breakfast grant from Project Bread in fall 2024.
Project Bread connects people and communities in Massachusetts to reliable sources of food while advocating for policies that make food more accessible—so that no one goes hungry. For more information, visit: www.projectbread.org.
Hurley Middle School Receives Banner Recognition
By Joe Siegel
Hurley Middle School is one of the 19 schools in Massachusetts and one of 202 schools nationwide to receive National Banner recognition for providing Special Olympics Unified Champion School programming. In addition, Hurley received Spotlight status from the New England League of Middle Schools, a non-profit organization representing 300 middle schools in the six New England states.
At an all school assembly held on March 20, the teachers, staff, and students were recognized for academic excellence.
The honor reflects the school’s success in meeting 10 national standards of excellence in the areas of inclusion, advocacy, and respect.
Principal Alexis Bouchard noted the Spotlight status was in recognition of the middle school’s core values, “being in place to keep everyone grounded, to guide us to success by being safe, kind, responsible and respectful.”
“We look for effort,” Bouchard said. “You are responsible for your own learning.”
The Unified Champion Schools model is a strategic framework for schools Pre-K through university that intentionally promotes meaningful social inclusion by bringing together students with and without intellectual disabilities to create accepting school environments, utilizing three interconnected components: Unified Sports, inclusive youth leadership, and whole school engagement.
In Massachusetts, more than 369 schools are involved in Unified Champion Schools programming, and across the United States, 10,000 schools, including those in the 49 states, the District Columbia, and Puerto Rico, are engaged in this initiative.
Bouchard also touted “substantial growth” in the MCAS assessment for the 2023-2024 academic year, and recognized students who had improved their test scores over the previous year.
SUMMER CAMPS
Beyond the Campfire: The Enduring Value of Summer
With our daily lives dominated by screens and structured daily schedules, the simple act of attending summer camp holds profound significance. It’s more than just a break from routine; it’s an opportunity for personal growth, fostering independence, resilience, and social skills that extend far beyond the summer months. The immersive experience of camp allows children and teenagers to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with themselves and others.
“It’s more important than ever for kids to have a sense of belonging,” said Ian Moorhouse, president of the American Camp Association of New England. “Every child should attend camp to reset in an environment free from the stress of their regular schedule and associated challenges. Every adult should work at a camp to be part of this incredible experience and watch the magic of kids being kids again.”
One of the camp’s most crucial benefits is allowing children to develop their social-emotional skills. Campers learn to navigate diverse personalities, resolve conflicts, and build lasting friendships in a communal setting. These interactions foster empathy, communication, and teamwork, skills essential for success in all aspects of life. Camp provides a safe and supportive environment where young people can step outside their comfort zones, try new activities, and discover hidden talents.
Moreover, the camp experience promotes independence and self-reliance. Away from the familiar comforts of home, campers learn to manage their time, take responsibility for their belongings, and make decisions independently. This newfound autonomy builds confidence and resilience, empowering them to face challenges with greater self-assurance. The unstructured time at camp encourages creativity and exploration, allowing children to engage in activities they might not otherwise experience.
Wheeler Summer Camp, for example, exemplifies these benefits. It offers a wide and adventurous range of programs, from outdoor activities like ropes courses and swimming to specialized activities immersed in arts, athletics, and sciences. This variety allows campers to pursue their passions and follow their curiosity. Wheeler’s emphasis on community creates a welcoming environment where campers feel safe to be themselves and build meaningful relationships.
The camp’s experienced staff members act as mentors, guiding campers through challenges and fostering a sense of belonging. They prioritize experiential learning, encouraging campers to learn by doing and to apply their knowledge in real-world situations. This hands-on approach promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and a lifelong love of learning.
“The change in our campers’ confidence, self-worth, and growth from the beginning of the summer to the end is incredible,” said Wheeler Summer Camp Director Danielle Levya. “A camper may arrive not knowing how to swim, or they may be quiet and withdrawn and unwilling to try new things like archery. By the end of their time at camp, however, they are swimming like fish, and they feel confident to try new activities and
are willing to actively participate in special events like the talent show. This is why I love what I do!”
The value of camp extends far beyond the moments of fun and adventure during the summer. Attending camp is an investment in a child’s future. It’s where they will pick up some of the tools they need to thrive in an increasingly complex world. Wheeler Summer Camp, with its commitment to fostering personal growth and community, offers a unique opportunity for young people to create lasting memories and develop essential life skills. Attending camp is not just a summer activity; it’s a transformative experience. www.wheelersummercamp.org - www.acanewengland.org
Rehoboth American Legion Presents Post 302 Baseball
Tryouts for 2025
American Legion Post 302 Junior Baseball Team
May 3rd 3:00-5:30PM
Nice Park Field - Peck Street Rehoboth
Competitive and Affordable Travel Baseball Fees: $350 Players must be born on or after January 1st, 2008 to qualify
2025 Summer Schedule
JUNE 5th, AWAY GAME
JUNE 10th, HOME GAME
JUNE 12th, HOME GAME
JUNE 17th, AWAY GAME
JUNE 19th, HOME GAME
JUNE 24TH, AWAY GAME
JUNE 26th, AWAY GAME
JULY 1st, HOME GAME
JULY 8th, AWAY GAME
JULY 10th, AWAY GAME
JULY 15th, HOME GAME
JULY 17th, HOME GAME
Players residing in Southern Bristol County may be eligible depending on the location of said players high school or home residence in relation to the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School. More specifically, players attending Taunton High School and DRRHS are eligible. Players whose home residence is located in parts of Berkley, Somerset, Swansea, Attleboro, Seekonk and Norton may also be eligible.
Please send all inquiries to BaseballPost302@gmail.com for more information.
Registration Form
The Ultimate Guide to Prom: From Promposals to After-Parties
Prom is one of the most anticipated events of high school, a night filled with elegance, fun, and unforgettable memories. From securing the perfect date with a creative promposal to dressing in the latest fashion trends, arranging transportation, and planning an epic after-party, every detail contributes to making prom a spectacular night. Here’s a complete guide to ensure your prom experience is nothing short of magical.
Fashion Trends: Looking Your Best
Fashion is a major component of prom, with students going all out to find the perfect look. Current trends in prom fashion include: For Girls:
• Bold colors like emerald green, royal blue, and classic red.
• Metallic and sequined dresses for a touch of glamour.
• Cut-out designs and high slits for a trendy, edgy look.
• Vintage-inspired gowns with lace or corset-style tops. For Guys:
• Classic tuxedos in black, navy, or burgundy.
• Velvet blazers for a touch of sophistication.
• Coordinating accessories like bow ties and pocket squares to match the date’s outfit.
• Comfort is just as important as style, so make sure to choose an outfit that allows for easy movement and dancing.
Transportation: Arriving in Style
How you arrive at prom is part of the fun, and there are plenty of options to suit every budget and style:
• Limousines: A classic choice for groups who want to ride together in luxury.
• Party Buses: Equipped with music, lights, and ample space, party buses keep the fun going before the event even begins.
• Vintage Cars: Renting a classic car for a timeless and elegant entrance.
• Themed Rides: Some students opt for unique transportation methods like horse-drawn carriages or decorated golf carts.
• Whatever transportation method is chosen, booking in advance is crucial, as services tend to fill up quickly during prom season.
The After-Party: Keeping the Fun Going
After prom officially ends, the celebrations often continue with an after-party. Some popular after-party ideas include:
• House Parties: A casual and cozy option where friends can relax, play games, and reminisce about the night.
• Late-Night Diner Run: Gathering at a 24-hour restaurant to grab some food and talk about the night’s highlights.
• Movie Marathons: Watching classic high school films or comedies in a relaxed setting.
Safety is a top priority for any after-party. Ensuring a safe location, having a designated driver, and keeping an eye out for each other are essential to making the night enjoyable and stress-free.
Final Thoughts
Prom is more than just a dance—it’s a rite of passage and a celebration of high school memories. Whether it’s through a fashionable outfit, a stylish ride, or an exciting after-party, every element plays a role in making the night unforgettable. With proper planning and a touch of creativity, your prom night is sure to be one of the most cherished events of your high school years.
Prom & Wedding 2025
Wedding Trends: Popular Dates, Attire, Colors, and Themes
Weddings are among the most cherished celebrations, bringing together family and friends to witness the union of two people in love. From selecting the perfect date to choosing the attire and decor, every detail contributes to making the event special. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the most popular wedding trends, including the best time of year to get married, wedding attire choices, trending colors, and popular themes.
Wedding Attire: Suit, Tux, or Dress?
Choosing the perfect wedding attire is one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning. The classic wedding dress remains the most popular choice for brides, with styles ranging from ball gowns and A-line dresses to mermaid and sheath silhouettes. Lace, satin, and tulle fabrics are timeless, while modern trends introduce boho-inspired designs, minimalist silk dresses, and even colorful wedding gowns in shades like blush, champagne, and soft blue. For grooms, the choice often comes down to a suit or tuxedo. A tuxedo is a more formal option, perfect for black-tie events, while a tailored suit can be just as elegant for a less formal wedding. Popular suit colors include navy, charcoal, and classic black, with lighter shades like beige and light gray trending for spring and summer weddings. Many grooms are opting for velvet blazers or textured fabrics for a contemporary twist.
Trending Wedding Colors
Color schemes set the tone for a wedding, influencing everything from the decor to bridesmaids’ dresses. Some of the most popular wedding color palettes include:
• Classic Neutrals: Ivory, champagne, beige, and soft pastels create a timeless and elegant feel.
• Romantic Blush & Rose Gold: Soft pinks paired with metallic gold accents offer a dreamy, feminine aesthetic.
• Bold Jewel Tones: Emerald green, deep burgundy, navy blue, and plum are perfect for fall and winter weddings.
• Earthy & Rustic: Terracotta, sage green, and burnt orange are popular for bohemian and outdoor weddings.
• Modern Monochrome: Black and white weddings with sleek, minimal decor are gaining traction.
Popular Wedding Themes
Selecting a wedding theme helps bring a cohesive vision to the big day. Here are some of the most sought-after wedding themes:
• Classic & Traditional: Elegant ballrooms, luxurious floral arrangements, and formal attire define this timeless theme.
• Rustic & Barn Weddings: Wooden details, fairy lights, and natural greenery create a charming countryside aesthetic.
• Bohemian & Whimsical: Dreamy, free-spirited elements like dried flowers, macramé, and flowy gowns bring a relaxed yet stylish feel.
• Vintage Glam: Old Hollywood-inspired decor, retro dresses, and antique-inspired table settings make for a nostalgic celebration.
• Beach & Destination Weddings: Light fabrics, tropical florals, and ocean-inspired hues create a laid-back, scenic wedding experience.
• Modern Minimalist: Clean lines, simple yet chic decor, and neutral tones define this contemporary wedding trend.
Final Thoughts
Weddings are an opportunity for couples to express their unique personalities and styles. Whether planning a grand ballroom event, a cozy winter wedding, or a bohemian outdoor ceremony, choosing the right season, attire, colors, and theme ensures a beautiful and memorable celebration. With countless options available, today’s couples have the freedom to craft a wedding that perfectly represents their love story.
Spring Home & Garden
Spring into Stain Season with the Hottest Outdoor Color of 2025
(BPT) - Exterior wood requires regular upkeep to prevent weather damage and preserve its longevity. Coming off a long winter of snow and rain, it’s important that homeowners tend to their decks and outdoor furniture to maximize the lifespan of their wood.
Spring marks the ideal time for homeowners to prepare their outdoor spaces for the warmer months ahead. With BBQs, summer holidays and dinner parties just around the corner, homeowners are looking to level up their exteriors with a new stain.
“In addition to its functionality, wood stain can noticeably transform an outdoor space,” said Ashley McCollum, color expert. “Whether you’re updating your deck, furniture or fence, a new finish can significantly enhance your curb appeal.”
Before embarking on a stain project, it’s important to select the color and level of transparency that will achieve the desired finish, specific to each wood type.
According to the color experts for popular woodcare brands Olympic Stains, Pittsburgh Paints & Stains and Flood wood finishes, this year, homeowners are searching for fail-proof stain colors that
Hot Stain Color
empower them to design their spaces with ease. While modest blacks and subtle white oaks previously dominated the color space, homeowners appear more drawn toward warmer stains that complement their modern, minimalist eras while adding depth and character to their spaces.
“There’s been a notable shift over the years from light, muted colors toward richer, deeper hues that exude warmth and comfort,” said McCollum. “Like in their homes, people are trying to add bolder colors to personalize their spaces.”
A popular choice that is most known for transcending design styles, Oxford Brown, was revealed as the top trending stain color for 2025. As a warm, earthy hue that evokes a rustic vintage charm, Oxford Brown is ideal for wood that has lost its luster over time. Its design versatility makes it well suited for exterior spaces that are both future-inspired and classic designs.
“Oxford Brown can adapt to both a modern, rustic look or an aged, historic style,” said McCollum. “Its timeless and adaptable properties harmonize with all environments, making it a truly versatile choice for anyone looking to level up their exterior.”
After selecting a color, there is an option of transparency type. Oxford Brown is available as a semi-transparent and solid stain, so homeowners and DIYers can select the option best suited for their project.
For a rich finish that enhances the wood grain, woodcare experts recommend Oxford Brown in a semi-transparent stain and sealant, such as Olympic Maximum, Pittsburgh Paints & Stains Paramount or Flood Wood Finishes Pro. For a deeper, alternative look better suited for weathered wood, homeowners can opt for Oxford Brown in a solid ready-mix stain.
Homeowners and DIYers can consider updating their outdoor spaces with one of the following stain projects:
* Beautify your deck and furniture. Choosing the right stain color and transparency can enhance the natural beauty of the wood. A semi-transparent stain adds a subtle color and enriches the deck’s natural grain, while a solid stain provides maximum protection to aging wood surfaces.
* Protect your pergola against the elements. While rain can warp and crack wood, leaving residues of mold and mildew, the harsh sun can be just as damaging for your pergola. Intense heat can dry and discolor the wood, causing it to split and turn gray. It’s recommended to stain and seal your pergola every one to three years to protect it against these harsh conditions and preserve its natural beauty.
* Revive your fence from years of weathering. Fences can easily detract from a house if the wood looks faded and unkept. A semi-transparent or solid stain can add major curb appeal, reviving wood that has lost its luster over time in three steps (See www. olympic.com/advice/how-to-stain-a-fence).
This year’s stain color of choice for homeowners and DIYers, Oxford Brown, is available at The Home Depot, Menards, PPG Paints stores and independent retailers.
(BPT) - Homeowners today are reimagining their outdoor spaces, moving beyond a basic patio and grill to create thoughtfully designed areas that blend style, comfort, and functionality. According to the latest Houzz Outdoor Trends Study, one in three homeowners are upgrading their outdoor areas as functional, beautiful extensions of their homes with an emphasis on convenience, style and sustainability. If you’re among those looking to transform your outdoor space this year, following are five top trends to consider:
1.
Seamless segues from inside out
As the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces continue to blur, homeowners are finding creative ways to bring the comfort of the indoors outside. Picture large glass doors gliding open to reveal a deck adorned with stylish outdoor furniture, cozy rugs and ambient lighting, creating an inviting atmosphere that feels just as welcoming as a living room.
2. Climate-friendly features
As climate resilience becomes a top priority, outdoor areas are being designed to withstand every season and adapt to a wide range of conditions. Homeowners want solutions that offer a year-round balance of comfort, durability, ease and style to ensure these spaces remain practical and inviting. Heat-mitigating composite decking, weather-resistant furniture, and shade structures help keep outdoor spaces enjoyable, no matter the season. Water-resistant materials are also becoming essential for decks, poolside areas and docks, ensuring durability against moisture, sun exposure and heavy foot traffic. Low-maintenance solutions, such as Trex® composite decking, require only occasional cleaning to maintain their beauty for years.
“People want outdoor spaces that adapt effortlessly to their homes and lifestyles, no matter the climate, setting or season,” says Adam Zambanini, COO of Trex Company. “Our PerformanceEngineeredâ„¢ products offer the ability to enjoy the outdoors in comfort and style, whether you live along the salty coast, high up in snow-capped mountains or in the heat of the desert.”
3. Cozy, curated spaces
Rather than sprawling, undefined yards, many homeowners are designing smaller, purpose-driven outdoor spaces tailored to specific activities like dining, relaxing or entertaining. Defined zones with level changes, pergolas, privacy screens and stylish deck railings create a sense of intimacy and character. And don’t forget the space beneath the deck. The simple addition of a deck drainage system, like RainEscape®, makes it possible to add furnishings, lighting, appliances and other electronics to transform this underutilized area into a fully functional, all-season retreat.
4. Smart features for comfort and convenience
Technology is making outdoor spaces more comfortable and functional than ever. Smart lighting, weatherproof entertainment systems, app-controlled irrigation, and outdoor Wi-Fi hotspots are turning backyards into high-tech havens. Features like built-in USB ports and wireless charging stations ensure outdoor spaces stay as connected and convenient as any indoor room.
5. Sustainable and serene retreats
More homeowners are prioritizing eco-friendly choices when designing their outdoor spaces. Products made with recycled and reclaimed materials and native plants contribute to a sustainable backyard oasis. Elements like rainwater collection systems and solar-powered lighting not only help reduce environmental impact but also create a peaceful and natural atmosphere.
Outdoor living continues to evolve, offering endless possibilities for relaxation, entertainment and connection with nature. Whether you’re envisioning a multi-level deck, a cozy garden escape or a poolside retreat, let these trends help you create your dream outdoor space. For more inspiration, visit Trex.com.
From marine-grade protection and Sun Comfortableâ„¢ technology to more color choices and durability backed by strong warranties ranging from 25 to 50 years, every product in our portfolio is Performance-Engineered for your life outdoors.
High-ROI Spring Home Projects
(Family Features) Spring is nature’s cue to renew and refresh. Whether you’re looking to add value for potential sale or simply create a more comfortable living space, you can make the most of the season and breathe new life into your home with projects that provide a high return on investment (ROI).
Consider these top home renovation projects to tackle this spring from the experts at Westlake Royal Building Products – a leader in
innovation, design and production of exterior and interior building products including siding, trim, mouldings, roofing, stone, windows, outdoor living and more – based on the 2024 Cost vs. Value Report from “Remodeling Magazine.”
Remodel the Kitchen and Bathroom
The average seller can expect an 96.1% return on a light touch to the kitchen, according to the report, and 73.7% on a modest bathroom renovation. Because personal preferences can vary widely among buyers, minor upgrades can provide a higher ROI than large, upscale remodels. A few easy ways to refresh your kitchen or bathroom include updating shelving or adding new hardware. Decorative trim and mouldings are also cost-effective ways to add visual interest.
Upgrade with Stone Veneer
As natural and textured home trends continue, homeowners are gravitating toward stone veneer, or manufactured stone, as it can replicate the look of real stone, adding comfort, character and beauty to homes. An option like Versetta Stone from Westlake Royal Building Products offers the authentic, handcrafted look of stone in a panelized format that’s easy to install with nails and screws. There’s also no need to paint, coat or seal once installed. Ideal for its ability to add texture and dimension throughout both home interior (accent walls and fireplaces) and exterior applications (siding, entryways and walkways), stone veneer – which comes with a 153.2% ROI – can influence mood, emotion and energy levels while serving as a focal point of your home’s design.
Install New Windows
Depending on the harshness of winter in your area and the age of your home, you may notice certain windows have developed drafts, allowing cold air to enter and heat to escape. Replacing drafty or outdated windows with modern, energy-efficient models is one of the most effective ways to enhance your home’s energy efficiency. Additionally, a vinyl window replacement brings approximately 67.1% ROI.
Replace Siding
In some cases, applying a fresh coat of paint is enough to refresh your home. However, if you’re looking to enhance your home’s curb appeal while making a long-term impact, consider installing new siding or replacing existing siding. Because vinyl siding serves as an additional layer of insulation, improving the energy efficiency of your heating and cooling systems, it offers a 80.2% ROI. Weatherresistant, low-maintenance siding like Celect Cellular Composite Siding, which is now available in on-trend colors including Imperial Red, a robust shade of red; Deep Pewter, a compellingly modern forest green; and Timberland, a rich, natural brown, won’t warp, sag or buckle and is built to withstand even the harshest weather conditions. Its patented interlocking joints provide a seamless look and it’s easy to install in small spaces, like along a knee or pony wall.
Update Decking
If you want to entertain guests outside, spring is a perfect time to get your patio or deck ready. While a new coat of stain can update your existing deck’s appearance and help protect it, spring is also an ideal time to build a deck if your home doesn’t currently have one. When choosing a decking material, cost and maintenance are two factors to consider. Composite decking offers a 68.2% ROI and is low maintenance as it’s not susceptible to cracking, warping and weather damage.
Find more ideas to update your home this spring at WestlakeRoyalBuildingProducts.com.
Source: Westlake Royal Building Products
7 Vegetables to Grow Easily in
Your Home Garden
(Family Features) Growing fresh, healthy vegetables at home may not be as hard as it sounds. Novice gardeners just need good dirt, easy plants to grow, lots of sunshine and the right amount of water. Once you’ve prepared your garden plot, select one or all of these vegetables, which are among the easiest to grow:
1. Lettuce - Plant lettuce seeds directly into the garden or a pot then repeat every two weeks. It can be cut a few weeks after planting. Some harvest lettuce by pulling it up - roots and all - but cutting a little off the top every few days can keep it growing until summer’s heat turns it too bitter.
Continued on next page ...
2. Spinach - This vitamin-packed green is planted and harvested just like lettuce.
3. Cucumbers - Make several mounds of dirt near the edge of your garden and place 2-3 plants around the center of each. Cucumbers are notorious for growing vines that overtake other plants, so be vigilant about keeping them contained.
4. Squash - Like cucumbers, summer squash is planted on small mounds at the edges of a garden so their vines can be contained. Most varieties, such as yellow squash and zucchini, are quite prolific and just a few plants can feed a large family all summer long.
5. Tomatoes - Purchase plants that grow best in your area of the country from your local garden center. All plants should be staked or enclosed in tomato cages because successful plants produce an abundance of large, heavy fruit throughout the summer months.
6. Bell Peppers - Bell peppers are easiest to grow from plants. Space them about 1 foot apart then watch them take off with little care required. The only real trick to growing bell peppers is knowing when to harvest. If you’re growing red, orange or yellow varieties, they’ll start out green then turn color as soon as they ripen.
7. Carrots - Dig a long, shallow trench in soil that is free of rock. Sprinkle the seeds along the row, cover lightly with topsoil and wait for the top of the carrot to pop through the soil. Once a bit of orange appears, pull and enjoy.
Find more tips for growing a bountiful garden at eLivingtoday.com.
Trending Grass Alternative for Yards Across America
(Joan Casanova) If you’re looking to renovate your yard, there’s a sustainable, drought-tolerant alternative to high-maintenance, water-guzzling grass that also reduces your environmental footprint.
“Clover lawns” went viral on social media last fall and became the most searched home improvement trend on Google in 2023. If you search #cloverlawns on Tik Tok , viewed more than 150 million times, you’ll be bombarded with photos and videos of fluffy, lush, green, gorgeous lawns grown with Miniclover seeds.
“‘Miniclover’ (Trifolium repens) is about 1/3-1/2 the size of white Dutch clover, only grows 4-6 inches and produces a thick, carpetlike look that blends well with turf,” said Troy Hake, president and owner of Outsidepride.com, offering drought-tolerant grasses, clovers, wildflower seeds and more. “It’s less expensive than grass seed and a natural solution for self-sustaining, low-maintenance lawns that look beautiful and help eliminate the need for fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides and weekly mowing. We sold out of it for the past two years, even with a two-fold increase in production. You can’t go wrong with it.”
Wondering why grass gets a bad rap? The truth is climate change is looming and has further altered the natural pattern of droughts, making them more frequent, longer and more severe. Grass lawns, however, are not sustainable; they’re the most maintenance-intense part of yards, requiring regular fertilization, mowing and heavy irrigation to look good. Nationwide, landscape irrigation is estimated at almost 1/3 of all residential water use, totaling nearly 9 billion gallons per day. Plus, gas-powered lawn and gardening equipment release more than 30 million tons of carbon emissions, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s National Emissions Inventory.
In some regions, there’s continuous, strict regulations on watering lawns or bans on the use of drinking water for irrigating grass. As concerns about climate change and water scarcity intensify, some homeowners are looking for landscaping solutions that minimize water usage and reduce environmental impact. A standout in this regard, Miniclover requires significantly less water than traditional grass to thrive. It’s drought-tolerant and has longer, deeper roots than grass, reaching into the soil for needed moisture, requiring minimal watering, staying greener longer and showing more resiliency during periods of drought or water restrictions.
It takes nitrogen from the air, “fixing” it in the soil and eliminating the need for fertilizer or nitrogen plant food because it does the work for you, keeping grass green and growing while adding natural nitrogen to surrounding soil.
Some homeowners are already tearing up grass and completely replacing it with Miniclover; others are overseeding existing grass, reaping the many benefits of clover while maintaining a lawn-like look without committing to a complete lawn replacement. Both options are more sustainable and environmentally friendly than grass lawns.
With hectic lifestyles the norm, many homeowners want landscaping solutions that require minimal upkeep. While grass lawns
require constant mowing, watering and fertilizing, perhaps it’s time to grow something other than traditional turf. Miniclover’s slow growth habits mean less time behind the mower while its dense growth pattern, evenly dispersed via stolons (stems that grow horizontally along the ground), crowds out weeds and controls erosion.
No need for herbicides; they’ll kill it. Grubs won’t eat it and bugs won’t lay eggs in it. It stands up to compacted soil, plus it’s immune to “dog patches.” It fills in bare spots fast and tolerates wet conditions. Mow as little as you like – the more it’s cut, the smaller the leaf size – or simply let it grow close to the ground, like grass . It blooms only once in summer with small, delicate flowers, which provide bees with nectar or, if preferred, mowing prevents blooming. It withstands foot traffic, making it ideal for pathways and play areas and its tolerance for shade makes it suitable for areas with limited sunlight.
For homeowners looking to reclaim weekends and minimize time and effort spent on lawn care, Miniclover seems like a dream. It lives up to its hype, offering the winning combination of environmental sustainability, very low maintenance, drought tolerance, aesthetic appeal and cost efficiency that benefits not only homeowners’ properties, but planet Earth as well.
For more drought-tolerant options, visit Outsidepride.com.
courtesy of Outsidepride.com
10 Tips to Make Your Air Conditioner More Energy Efficient and Sustainable
(Family Features) Updating your HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) system to cool your home in a smart and sustainable way involves several steps that not only improve energy efficiency but also reduce environmental impact.
Consider these tips from the heating and cooling experts at Carrier to help make your cooling system more eco-friendly:
Photo
1. Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient HVAC System. If your HVAC system is outdated, consider replacing it with a more energyefficient model. Look for systems with an Energy Star or high SEER2 (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) rating, which indicates better energy efficiency. The higher the SEER2 rating, the more efficient the unit. Financial incentives for installing a higher-efficiency system are available through the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. You can also shop for rebates from manufacturers and utility companies.
2. Look for a Carbon-Free HVAC System. Heat pumps, ductless and VRF (variable refrigerant flow) systems that run on
electricity and use low global-warming potential refrigerant, like Carrier’s Puron Advance, can help reduce your home’s negative impact on the environment.
3. Install a Smart Thermostat. A smart thermostat can be programmed based on your preferences and adjust temperatures automatically. These devices can be controlled remotely through smartphones and help reduce energy consumption by cooling your home only when necessary.
4. Conduct Regular Maintenance. Keep your HVAC system running efficiently with regular maintenance. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters every 1-3 months, checking refrigerant levels, cleaning outside condenser coils and ensuring the system’s components are in good, working condition and the airflow is not blocked.
5. Seal and Insulate. Improve your home’s insulation to maintain a consistent temperature. Seal windows, doors and any gaps or cracks to prevent cool air from escaping. This can significantly reduce the workload on your HVAC system.
6. Use Ceiling Fans. Ceiling fans can help circulate cool air throughout your home, allowing you to set the thermostat at a higher temperature without sacrificing comfort, thus saving energy.
VICTORIA DORAN
President RIAR 2013, Broker Associate Liscensed in MA & RI (401) 458-2160 Cell victoriadoran.remax@gmail.com Call me today for staging tips in the Spring Market!
7. Add Window Treatments. Use blinds, shades or curtains to block out sunlight and reduce heat gain during the hottest parts of the day. This simple step can make a big difference in how much your air conditioner needs to work.
8. Upgrade to a Variable-Speed Compressor. Traditional compressors operate at full power or not at all. However, a variablespeed compressor can adjust its output to match your cooling
9. Ventilate Properly. Ensure proper ventilation in your home, especially in areas like the kitchen and bathroom, to remove excess heat and humidity, which can reduce the need for air conditioning.
10. Update Roofing. If you’re replacing your roof, consider cool roofing materials that reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than standard roofing materials, reducing the heat that enters your home. By implementing these strategies, you can improve or update your HVAC system to cool your home more sustainably. Not only do these steps help the environment, they can also lead to lower energy bills and improved indoor comfort. Always consult with an HVAC professional to determine the best and most efficient options for your home and needs.
Find information and tips to sustainably cool your home at Carrier.com.
The Benefits of Dethatching Your Yard
(StatePoint) Dethatching your lawn has numerous benefits. But if you’re not sure what dethatching is or how to do it, you may be wondering if it’s really worth all the effort.
To shed light on dethatching, lawn care equipment manufacturer, Exmark is answering some frequently asked questions.
What is Thatch?
Thatch is a compacted layer of grass and plant stems, leaves, roots, and other organic debris that builds up faster than it can decompose. It accumulates right below the surface of your lawn and right on top of the soil, at the base of your grasses’ blades. Overly thick thatch blocks water and fertilizer from reaching the grasses’ roots, causing them to be trapped and vulnerable to heat, drought and stress—further stunting your lawn’s health and growth. However, thatch isn’t always a bad thing—a layer that’s less than a quarter-inch thick is normal and isn’t cause for alarm. It actually helps reduce soil compaction and water loss through evaporation, and it increases tolerance for cold and heat by protecting the growing blades.
When Should You Dethatch Your Lawn?
For warm-season grasses, it’s best to dethatch in the late spring or early summer, and for cool-season grasses it’s best to do it in early spring or fall. But before you start dethatching, mow your lawn to half its normal height to avoid tearing up any live grass in the process. Then, take out your rake or dethatcher and remove the thatch.
MH Home Services
Carpentry and Painting
This is a great chance to address your home improvement tasks! Here’s how I can help you:
•
• Installation of
•
•
•
• Installation of grab bars
Power Washing
Revitalize your outdoor areas! Create
How Do You Dethatch?
The process of dethatching is simple. You can purchase a specialized rake, but in a pinch, a regular rake will do. You can also rent a dethatcher to make the job even easier. Your lawn might look a bit ragged afterwards, so you’ll need to go over it again—this time just barely skimming the top of your lawn to remove all the loose debris that you just dug up. But before you start, call up your local utility company and have them mark any buried lines to avoid unwanted surprises.
What are the Benefits of Dethatching Your Lawn?
The time and effort that it takes to remove thatch pays huge dividends. Primarily, it exposes your soil to warmth and sunlight,
carbon dioxide and key nutrients reach your grasses’ roots, resulting in deeper growth. It also encourages the effectiveness of fertilizers and reduces water pooling on the surface of your yard by facilitating drainage. And, it helps fight back against invasive weeds that thrive in conditions created by a heavy thatch layer. Best of all, it promotes an overall healthier, greener lawn.
For more insights, watch “The Benefits of Dethatching,” an episode of “Backyard Smart,” an original series from lawn care equipment manufacturer, Exmark. To watch the video, visit Backyard Life, which is part of a unique multimedia destination with a focus on helping homeowners improve their outdoor living spaces. There you can also download additional tips and view other Exmark Original Series videos.
Now that you have the lowdown on dethatching, it’s time to get outside and free up your soil. Your lawn will thank you later.
In RemembeRance
Sally Ann Wood
Sally Ann Wood, 66, of Seekonk, MA, died peacefully on February 3, 2025 at the Miriam Hospital, Providence surrounded by her loving family. She was the beloved wife of Donald A. Wood.
Born in Philadelphia, PA, a daughter of the late Charles and Dorothy (Bango) Tomlinson, she lived in Seekonk, MA for 17 years.
Sally met Donald in 2004, after coming to New England with her future Mother and sister-in-law from Florida. She was a neighbor and had never been to New England and was quickly invited to join for a mini vacation. Donald and Sally’s love grew stronger throughout the next 3 years and Sally moved to Seekonk in 2007.
Mrs. Wood was a Customer Service Representative for the Woods Heating & Oil Co. for 15 years before retiring in 2022.
Sally volunteered her time for various charities. She loved dogs. She enjoyed decorating, crafts, artistically planning celebrations and reunions and always willing to help others.
Besides her husband, she is survived by a son, Patrick Montague of Deerfield Beach, FL and two brothers, Charles Tomlinson III of Somers Point, NJ and Rev. Dr. Thomas Tomlinson of Gulfport, FL.
A Celebration of Life was held on Saturday March 22, 2025 in the W. RAYMOND WATSON FUNERAL HOME, 350 Willett Avenue, Riverside, RI, from 1-3 p.m.
Burial will be held in St. Michael’s Cemetery, Tresckow, PA, at a later date. Flowers are respectfully omitted. Contributions in Sally’s memory to the RISPCA, 155 Plan Way, Warwick, RI, 02886 would be deeply appreciated. For online condolences please visit www. wrwatsonfuneralhome.com
Samuel Edward Simmons, Jr.
Samuel Edward Simmons, Jr., a devoted family man and longtime resident of Rehoboth, passed away on Saturday, March 15, 2025 at Charlton Memorial Hospital surrounded by the love of his family. He was the beloved husband of Joan (Darcy) Simmons. He was also the husband of the late Arlene (Silva) Simmons.
Born in Long Island, New York he was the son of the late Samuel E. Sr. and Emily (Svonik) Simmons. A loving father, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Robin Shovlin. Besides his wife he is survived by his children,
Edward Simmons and his wife Robin of Myrtle Beach, SC., Scott Simmons and his wife Maryellen of Rehoboth, MA, Jennifer Donovan and her husband James of Hartly, DE. , Christopher Simmons of Milton, PA, and Christen Durfee and her husband Stephen of Catawba, VA. He leaves one sister, Catherine Oronato and his sonin-law, Dan Shovlin. He also leaves behind eight grandsons, two great-granddaughters and one great-grandson, all of whom brought him immense joy. He was the brother of the late Betty Rehorchuck A hardworking and dedicated professional, Sam worked for the Department of Corrections for 32 years and served as Deputy Superintendent in Norfolk, MA where he made a lasting impact through his commitment and leadership. He was also a Navy veteran of the Korean War.
Beyond his work, Sam found great happiness on the golf course, especially at Pine Valley Golf Course in Rehoboth where he spent many enjoyable days perfecting his game. A passionate sports fan, he was a devoted follower of the Boston Red Sox and the New England Patriots, always cheering them on with unwavering enthusiasm. Above all else, Sam’s greatest joy was his family. He often said that some of the best years of his life were spent raising his children and his love and devotion to them was evident in everything he did. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his kindness, humor, and the love he shared with all who knew him.
His funeral was held on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 10:00 AM from the PERRY-McSTAY FUNERAL HOME, 2555 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM in St. Margaret Church, 1098 Pawtucket Avenue, Rumford. Burial was in Rehoboth Village Cemetery. Calling hours were Thursday 4-7. In lieu of flowers contributions to Southcoast Health at Home, 200 Mill Rd. , Fairhaven, MA 02719 would be greatly appreciated.
Jason K. Landry
Daniel A. Laneres
Sandra M. Reis
Michael S. Sladen of Rehoboth Fala Português
Sally Ann Wood
Samuel Edward Simmons, Jr.
Edna Blanche Richmond
Edna Blanche Richmond of Rehoboth left us on March 23, 2025, at the grand old age of 96. Born on March 1, 1929, in her grandparents’ home in Rehoboth, she was the daughter of Harold Thomas Richmond and Amy Martha (Pierce) Richmond.
The middle of seven children she was the sister of the late Harold T. Richmond Jr., Martha H. Butler, Edward C. Richmond, Barbara A. Richmond, and Ralph J. Richmond. Her youngest brother Russell L. Richmond of Rehoboth survives her.
From her earliest job at Stork Diaper Service right after high school graduation to her retirement from A & Z Hayward at the age of 72, Edna was a career woman. Whether as a delivery truck driver, salesclerk, dance instructor, insurance adjuster, police dispatcher, jewelry worker, or antique shop owner, she put her many talents to use in a varied and lifelong career as a working woman.
You could often find Edna near the beach, any beach. Ocean Grove, the old cabanas at Barrington Beach, Colt State Park, Wells Beach, the campground at Scusset Beach were all known for sightings of Edna as she excitedly admired her favorite bird – the sea gull.
And travel she did! Trips “out West” in the van with Andy and a two-month cross country RV trip with Uncle Ed and Aunt Blanche were the source of many happy memories and an abundance of unidentified photographs (Where is this? Who is this?). We almost lost her a few times on our hiking trips to NH, but she always found her way back.
Edna was the proud mother of four children: Cynthia Battle Kirwin (Christopher) of Newport, Guy R. Battle and Barbara Boulay Savary (Rus) of Rehoboth, and Edward W. Boulay III of Manchester, NH., all of whom will miss her vibrant presence and willingness to go anywhere and do anything. Her three beloved grandchildren Thomas F. Savary, Daniel R. Savary, and Connor E. Boulay will remember her patient advice and trips to Wachusett Mtn. for ski lessons (Thank you Grandma). Edna also leaves many nieces and nephews whom she loved and followed on Facebook.
She was preceded in death by her four (yes four) former husbands: Richard C. Battle, Edward W. Boulay Jr., Albert Jobe, and Andre Brunelle.
Our sincere thanks to all the very kind and thoughtful people at Accent Care Home Health and AdviniaCare/South Point Rehab Center who cared for and loved her during her last months.
Visiting hours were Sunday, March 30, at the J.H. WILLIAMS & CO. FUNERAL HOME, 210 Taunton Avenue, East Providence, RI, from 4-6 pm. A service was held on Monday, March 31, at 11 am at the funeral home followed by burial at Greenwood Cemetery in Rehoboth and a reception at the American Legion Post #302, Bay State Road, Rehoboth.
To submit an obituary, please call the Reporter for rates and information. Obituaries Start at $120. 508-252-6575
Edna Blanche Richmond
Jean M Kusiak Real Estate Brokerage TRAVASSOS & KUSIAK
Irene L. Rivard
Irene L. Rivard, 100, of Rehoboth, died at home on March 26, 2025. She was the wife of the late Charles J. Rivard. Born in Fall River, she was a daughter of the late Mederick Langlois and Valeda (Doucette) Langlois.
Mrs. Rivard worked as a waitress at the former Eileen Darling’s Restaurant in Seekonk. She was a wonderful cook and homemaker.
She leaves her loving children: Charles J. Rivard, Jr. of Georgia, Steven D. Rivard and his wife Kathleen of North Dighton, and Kathy A. Dufresne and her Irene L. Rivard
husband Leonard of Yarmouth Port, MA. Cherished grandmother of nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. She was the sister of Richard Langlois of Seekonk and the late Ida Delzenero. Her funeral and burial in the Massachusetts National Cemetery will be private. Calling hours are respectfully omitted.
In lieu of flowers, gifts in her memory to HopeHealth Hospice, 1085 North Main St., Providence, RI 02904 or to the Rehoboth Lions Club, P.O. Box 633, Rehoboth, MA 02769 will be appreciated.
Arrangements are in the care of the Home of J.H. WILLIAMS & CO., 210 Taunton Avenue, East Providence, RI.
Death Notices
Rehoboth
• Beatrice Turek Robinson, age 88, passed away peacefully at her home in Rehoboth, Massachusetts on the 28th day of February 2025.
• *Samuel Edward Simmons, Jr., a devoted family man and longtime resident of Rehoboth, passed away on Saturday, March 15, 2025 at Charlton Memorial Hospital surrounded by the love of his family.
Seekonk
• Sally Ann Wood, 66, of Seekonk, MA, died peacefully on February 3, 2025 at the Miriam Hospital, Providence surrounded by her loving family.
• David Warner McDonald, 62, passed away on February 22, 2025. Owner and publisher of www.searchingforreason.net. Sadly missed by family and friends.
• Elaine T. Petter, 85, of Seekonk, passed away on Sunday, February 23, 2025 at Rhode Island Hospital.
• Robert “Bob” Gagliardi, 68, passed away at home on March 6, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
• Rita Helen Krupowicz, a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 19th, 2025, at the remarkable age of 101.
Working with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) Practitioner
Written by Lars Lambrecht, CFP, CLU, BFA, AMPA, CDFA, CLTC, CSLP, owner of Island Time Financial Services, Inc.
I once read an article that many people put meeting with a financial advisor in the same bucket as taking a math test or going to the dentist! While the thought of working with a financial advisor may be intimidating, most people find the process is easier than they thought it would be and walk away with increased peace of mind. Many sources recommend working with a financial advisor that holds a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) Practitioner designation. CFPs are required to work as fiduciaries, must meet experience requirements and pass extensive examinations.
What is Financial Planning? There are many aspects to financial planning. Some advisors only help clients in certain areas. CFPs generally provide comprehensive advice covering all areas and how they interrelate. Your situation may also warrant working with someone that specializes in more complex situations such as divorce, business owner strategies or tax planning.
Financial Position. This area is quite broad. Should you buy or lease a car? How much should you put down on a home purchase? Are you fully utilizing your work benefits? CFPs can also assist with looking at your cash flow to set up a budget, as well as debt management strategies.
Protection Planning. This includes life, disability, long-term care, homeowners, auto and liability insurance. CFPs can help you understand the differences between various types of insurance, as well as how much insurance is appropriate, as well as riders to consider.
Investment Planning. The universe of investments is expansive. CFPs can help you review options in your work retirement plan. They can also help you set up investments in mutual funds, ETFs, 529 plans, stocks, treasuries and CDs. Investment planning includes strategies to achieve specific goals such as a home purchase or college education.
Tax Planning. There are key differences between tax preparation and tax planning. Tax planning involves looking at past tax returns and exploring proactive strategies to reduce taxes. These generally fall into categories of tax deductions, tax credits, tax deferral and taxfree income.
Retirement Planning. This includes strategies to be able to retire, such as how much money do you need to save, how to leverage work retirement plans and where to save. It also includes critical strategies once you retire, such as creating lifetime income, adjusting risk, housing changes and healthcare.
Estate Planning. An attorney is utilized to create estate planning documents. CFPs assist with the implementation of estate planning strategies. This includes items such as setting up beneficiaries, types of trusts and how to avoid probate. It can also include more advanced considerations such as avoiding estate taxes and sheltering assets from Medicaid.
Compensation. Financial advisors can be compensated on a commission-basis and/or fee-basis. They may receive commissions on products they recommend. Fee-based financial advisors typically charge an annual retainer for financial advice and/or a percentage of the assets they are managing for you. It is important to understand how your advisor will be compensated.
Key questions to ask when interviewing an advisor. How will you be paid? Do you receive incentives to sell certain products? How many years have you been practicing? What professional designations do you hold? Do you function as a Fiduciary? How often will you meet with me? What areas do you specialize in? When are you paid commissions?
The relationship with your CFP is a critical one. Obviously, education, experience and product availability are critical, but it is also important that you feel comfortable with their style and personality. If you are not satisfied with your existing advisor, most financial advisors are willing to meet for a complimentary consultation for a second opinion. Lars Lambrecht, Rehoboth resident and Certified Financial Planner, is available to answer questions or meet for a consultation. 617-947-6428
Lars Lambrecht
From the State House
Senator Dooner Calls on Governor Healey to Do More for Struggling Massachusetts Residents, Urges Support for Critical Utility Reform Legislation
Senator Kelly Dooner (R-Taunton) issued a statement in response to Governor Healey’s “Energy Agenda,” calling on the administration to take real action to address the financial burden Massachusetts residents are facing due to soaring energy costs. Senator Dooner urged the Governor to support her legislation that would provide meaningful relief and long-term consumer protections.
“Governor Healey’s plan simply does not do enough,” said Senator Dooner. “A $50 credit is not real relief for families who are seeing their utility bills skyrocket. The fact is, decisions made under this administration and the Department of Public Utilities (DPU) have contributed to this crisis, and now residents are being asked to settle for breadcrumbs. That’s unacceptable.”
Senator Dooner has introduced legislation aimed at holding utility companies accountable and ensuring that Massachusetts families are no longer subjected to unchecked rate hikes. This legislation includes:
Public Hearings and Transparency in Rate Changes: Requiring the Department of Public Utilities to hold at least one public hearing and a 30-day public comment period before approving any rate increase.
Capping Rate and Delivery Fee Increases: Preventing investorowned electric and gas distribution companies from increasing delivery fees or rates by more than 3 percent per year, adjusted for inflation.
Utility Discounts for Veterans and Seniors: Establishing a Veteran Utility Rate Reduction Program and a Senior Utility Rate Reduction Program to provide discounted delivery fees for qualifying residents.
Comprehensive Reform of Delivery Fees: Creating a special commission to study and recommend long-term solutions to reduce excessive utility costs while maintaining reliable service.
“This legislation takes real action to prevent these kinds of rate hikes from happening in the first place, and I urge the Governor to support these reforms,” continued Senator Dooner. “We have already received bipartisan support on this because protecting residents from excessive utility costs is not a partisan issue, but a basic necessity. Massachusetts residents deserve more than temporary, insufficient relief. They deserve real solutions.”
Senator Dooner remains committed to fighting for the residents of the Commonwealth and ensuring that state leadership prioritizes meaningful reform over short-term fixes.
Senator Dooner Opposes Proposed Lottery System for Agricultural and Vocational School Admissions
Senator Kelly Dooner (R-Taunton) testified before the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, urging them to reject the proposed lottery system for agricultural and vocational school admissions, warning that it would undermine the hard work and dedication of students seeking specialized education.
“I asked the Board to please not gamble with our students’ futures,” said Senator Dooner. “This system would eliminate a merit-based admissions process in favor of chance, disregarding the commitment and passion that students bring to these programs.”
The proposed lottery system would replace the current process, which considers numerous factors such as academic performance, attendance, and student interest, with a randomized selection method. While proponents argue that a lottery would create more equitable access, opponents—including educators, students, and parents—have raised serious concerns that it would strip vocational and agricultural schools of their ability to select students who are truly committed to their fields of study.
Senator Dooner is a proud graduate of Norfolk County Agricultural High School and credits her time at Norfolk Aggie with shaping her into the person she is today. “Attending Norfolk Aggie gave me the hands-on experience, education, and confidence I needed to succeed,” she said. “I know firsthand how life-changing these schools can be for students who may not fit the traditional mold and are passionate about their fields. Admissions should be based on that passion and dedication, not left up to luck.”
Senator Dooner has spent the past few weeks engaging with teachers, students, school committee members, and legislators across the political spectrum. She noted that not a single person expressed support for the proposed lottery system, and most were unaware that it was even under consideration.
“The lack of transparency in this process speaks volumes,” she said. “Decisions of this magnitude should not be made behind closed doors without meaningful input from those who will be directly affected. 700+ students wrote letters in opposition to this lottery system, that speaks to me.”
For schools like Bristol County Agricultural High School, where students undergo specialized training in fields such as veterinary science, environmental conservation, and agricultural mechanics, an admissions lottery would disrupt the selection of students who have demonstrated clear interest and aptitude for these programs.
“Vocational and agricultural education prepares students for critical industries in our state. We should be strengthening and expanding these programs, not dismantling their admissions process,” said Senator Dooner.
Senator Dooner is open to working with the Board, but remains committed to fighting for a transparent, merit-based system and ensuring this children have a voice heard loud and clear.
CLASSIFIEDS
HELP WANTED
Morning chores at Ferry’s Dairy Farm in Swansea, 7am-10am flexible, Call Paul at 508-642-0906.
General Help: Positions available Sundays from March 30th thru December 7th, 2025.at the Seekonk Flea Market at Seekonk Speedway every Sunday from 5am-noon. Looking for general help and also a person to direct traffic. Call Linda at 401-263-5737.
Part-time handyperson, 10 hours/mo., for repairs and projects at the Blanding Free Public Library and Carpenter Museum. Visit rehobothantiquarian.org/aboutus/employment for more info. and to apply.
EVENTS
Seekonk Flea Market at Seekonk Speedway is open 7am-1pm every Sunday until December 7th. Vendors & Patrons welcome and wanted! For more information, call Linda at 401-263-5737.
WANTED
Old comic books, top dollar paid, call 401-475-1612 or 401-389-0375 and leave message.
I buy Old cars, Motorcycle, Bicycles, Scooter and other wheeled vehicle and parts. One piece or a collection. Thank you, Joe in Rehoboth 508-558-5129.
HOME & GARDEN
Plants for Sale: House plants, annuals, perennials, succulents, good variety from $1$10. Free plant with visit. Call 401-433-2922.
FOR RENT
APARTMENT FOR RENT: 2.5 Bedrooms, no pets, no laundry, street parking, utilities not included, $1000 per month, Call John at 401-588-0738.
APARTMENT FOR RENT: 1 bedroom in East Providence, 1st floor, heat & appliances included, on bus line, $1600/month. Call 401-952-0442.
SERVICES
Personal Care Assistant: I am a Personal Care Assistant and 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 – Spring Tune-ups on all brands. 2 locations: in Riverside next to CVS 401433-4491, and in Warren next to the Police Station and the bike path. Call Art or Joe for *NEW* hours and service. 401-245-9755
BIG BLUE REMOVAL SERVICE: Attic, Cellar, Total House. We take everything! Furniture, Brush, Appliances, Yard Waste, Construction Debris, Trash…Demolition of Fences, Sheds, Decks, Pools. Let us do the work. Free Estimates. BEST PRICES. Call Tony 508-226-1295 or 508-889-0824; www. BigBlueJunkRemovals.com.
