July 2020 Rehoboth Reporter

The Rehoboth

Reporter

JULY 2020 Volume 32, no. 7

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Serving the Residents of Rehoboth, Seekonk and Surrounding Communities Since 1989

Photo by Earle S Dias Photography; Davis St.

Dighton-Rehoboth High School Graduation Set for August 1st see page 15

2 The Reporter July 2020

July 2020 The Reporter

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4 The Reporter July 2020

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July 2020 The Reporter

Letters to the Editor...

The letters in this section and opinion articles do not reflect the views of the staff of The Rehoboth Reporter. It is not our intent to take sides on any issues, but to present all arguments from all points of view. If your point of view is not represented on an issue, it is only because you have not voiced your opinion. Let us hear from YOU!

Thank You to the Rehoboth Police

On the night of June 1st I noticed a police car in front of my house, lights swirling. I was hoping that yet another speeder was being stopped in this 20 mile an hour zone near the library where there are many children and too many bad accidents, at least one fatal. But when a second police car pulled up and the road appeared blocked, cars turning around, I was alarmed. I heard voices and cautiously went out to see what was happening. Flashlights blared and a police officer was heading up the driveway. He cordially explained that two people had gone into the woods alongside my property, and there appeared to be suspicious activity. It turned out to be very benign, but what struck me was the officer’s alertness and concern that something could be amiss and his taking immediate action accordingly.

In these days when we too often do not take the time to aptly express appreciation, I want to commend his efforts and those of the other Rehoboth Police officer/officers that were with him. Thank you for being there.

Sincerely, Marsha Hood Rehoboth, MA

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Inside This Issue Business Directory....................69 Church News..............................52

Voting by Mail

I JUST VOTED BY MAIL in the town election! Easy-peasy.

I’m convinced ample security measures were taken, and I plan to vote by mail in upcoming elections. As I understand it, the signed envelope-within-a-mailing-envelope is stored in the town vault until election day on June 30. Then it is opened and run through a machine to be counted. If there are any questions, such as whether I’m a legal voter, or place of residence -- there’s a paper trail with my signature and address on the bar-coded envelope -- but NOT on the ballot, which looks the same as the ones used at the polls.

And — if I need some last minute deliberation, I can take as much time as I want without feeling I’m holding up the line, or catching Covid cooties.

Our town clerk has done a great job of publicizing all the information needed to vote by mail — thanks, Laura. The only hiccup — the envelope weighed slightly more than one ounce, so I had to use two postcard stamps (70 cents). Well worth it.

Connie Grab Rehoboth

Classifieds...............................68 Club Announcements.................35 Food & Dining.............................62 Letters to the Editor.......................5 Local Farms...............................45 Library......................................

Blanding.......................45 Seekonk......................40 Obituaries................................66

Thank you!

Thank you to the over 500 people that came out to support me in my recent run for Selectman, I was floored.

Congratulations to Mr. Perry and Mr. Muri and all others who sought office and achieved a win. We are grateful for your service.

As many of you know, I withdrew prior to the election because of additional obligations during the recent pandemic . Based on the pulse of the town, I hope to try again for the seat in the upcoming years. This time with an even stronger campaign and volunteers.

My family worked hard to support me this year; I owe a special thanks to Zack. One thing I learned throughout this is you need a team! I hope to continue to make positive waves together with my constituents.

In closing, it was great meeting everyone on the journey this year. Meeting the various committees and commissions as well as leadership in our Police, Fire and Ambulance was an honor. I would not have been inspired to run if it wasn’t for the community and especially its citizens.

Have a great Independence Day! Respectfully yours, Laura Dias Samsel

People.................................31 Rehoboth COA...........................50 Rehoboth Ramblings.................39 Rehoboth Town News................8 Restaurant Guide.......................65 Scouts...................................47 School News...............................54 Seekonk Human Services..........51 Seekonk Town News...................18 State House................................48

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6 The Reporter July 2020

The Rehoboth/Seekonk

Reporter P.O. Box 377 Rehoboth, MA 02769

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The Letters to the Editor and opinion articles do not reflect the views of the staff of The Rehoboth Reporter. It is not our intent to take sides on any issues, but to present all points of view.

Racism

Racism, yes, can be very loud and in your face but it can be so subtle and secretive that you may never see it. It doesn’t always manifest in the scream of racial profanity, in the blatant degrading of another human because of their skin color, or in the jokes at the expense of another’s race, sometimes it will sneak about working it’s way into all of our lives. It uses fear and ignorance to controller our hearts and minds. I want to use my voice to bring light and to inform you, not to tear you down or rebuke you, but to help you see and hear tangible ways racism has affected someone you might personally know!

The first time I can recall being called a Nigger was in 5th or 6th grade, believe me it was just the first in a series. Over time in school I could ascertain, (whether rightly or wrongly) and admittedly with my own set prejudices, what students or furthermore what teachers/ coaches might have racial biases towards me I learned who I could trust and who I could not!

In 8th grade I remember the day riding my bike on Simmons street in Rehoboth just a minute from home with my best friend who is also black. As we rode 2 high school kids in a pick-up truck passed us, turned around only to pass us and turn around again as they pass us this 3rd time they slowed and once they were in front they spun their tires shooting the newly paved loose stones at our faces, they proceeded to pass us 2 more time repeating the processes. I remember the fear we both felt, as we pedaled feverishly to my house.

We quickly hid our bikes before they passed again so that they wouldn’t know where we were. For a period, I remained terrified to ride my bike on my own street, in a town I called home for nearly my entire life.

In the classroom we learned about slavery and the civil rights movement that “won” freedom for all and that learned that racism was a thing of the past or maybe only still in parts of the south. But reality was that while we learned that in the books, kid made jokes about and teased about my ancestors being slaves and that they would have owned me.

While we learned of equality our bathroom stalls and desks had racial slurs, KKK, and Swastika’s drawn and carved into them.

I entered high school and as a freshmen the upperclassmen of the 98% white football team dubbed me with the nickname chocolate milk, in front of coach who instead of stopping it laughed along with it. So, I just learned to smiled and nod. I heard the laughter the side comments the whispers. I had white friend who stood against the grain and would inform me of the things said behind my back. I heard them and I just pushed them aside trying to rise above them. 16 years later I listened and watch my little brothers being call “Habib” or similar racially charged nicknames by teammates while teacher/coaches sat idly by.

I remember the day the entire school went into complete lockdown because one of the 10-15 black students wasn’t recognized. To most it was a funny, something to joke about, to me it spoke volumes to the fear a single black boy in a sea of students in the hall can cause, in what is supposed to be a safe environment for ALL. I work as a Civil Engineer and as such I often visit empty wooded lots, new road subdivisions and home lot. Every visit I prepare myself in ways I didn’t realize were bred in my fears of racial bias. I always have a card on me, I dress as professional as possible, I carry a clipboard and plans whether they are need or not and I try to look as confident in being there in hopes that I would dissuade onlookers from seeing me as suspicious. You might think me paranoid but my reality is that in high school I worked with my friends (1 black, 2 biracial and 1 white kid) on a subdivision setting hay bales in the woods. on our way home while driving through Seekonk, in an open Jeep, we sat at a red light waiting, after a min or so a police car pulled off a side street behind us, as we turned with a green light, he flipped his lights. We immediately pulled over and were greeted at gun point with a screaming officer telling us to “get your f’ing hands up right this second!” He forcefully dragged us one by one out of the car and did a complete pat down and search of the vehicle and upon Finding nothing he made his disappointment know! We had committed no crime, but were profiled simply for riding in a white community in broad daylight!

In my 20’s I worked at a Christian camp in New Hampshire during the summer, and was befriended by the camp band, on a day off they invited me to accompany them to a music store a few towns over, on our way back we stopped at a convenience store and upon entering a man began to follow me around, something that isn’t unheard of for me, but this was different, he stood and followed so closely. As we finished in the store the man was leaving behind me, I held the door....and there we stood...he just looked at me, didn’t move, didn’t speak. After an uncomfortable pause I let the handle go and the door closed and I turned to walk away. Not until the door closed did, he finally open it and exit the store. As he continued all the way to his car he just glared in my direction, I was scared in that moment, shocked by his boldness. That day I was thankful for true friends who upon hearing me recount the events that had just transpired showed their utter distain and support all at once! But what is telling is that these men were in the store with me, they walked out right before me, they were at the door talking with me as I held it. Yet they never saw a thing! Why? Because racism is cunning and deceptive and may only show its ugly head when you’re not around!

July 2020 The Reporter

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In 2014 our family went on vacation Florida to relax and celignore it you are risking them to think either you don’t care or you ebrating the early stages of possible remission of Logan’s cancer. risk them being molded by those who harbor hatred. When they While at the airport, after making it through all security checkpoints, are confronted by it in school (and they will be),or in the world, they I was approached by 2 TSA agents at the terminal with my family might out of fear do what is safest and easiest if they can’t rely on and fellow passengers. They tapped me on the shoulder, looked the example set forth in your homes. at my carry-on suitcase by my feet and asked is this your bag, Now I would be doing a great disservice to my friend, classwhen I replied yes they asked me to step to the side with them, mates, teachers, coaches and community members if I didn’t take and proceeded to check contents of my bag in front of all of my a moment to say thank you, thank you, thank you! I know so many fellow passengers, questioned my purpose for flying, and asked loved, befriend, and defended against racism & and prejudice! I who I was with. It was one of the most stressful events I have ever am truly proud of you all! But our work is not finished, I don’t want experienced. This entire ordeal took place in view of not only all to accept a community who settles for “better than before” I want at our terminal but the other 2-3 gates passengers. The stares I a society how strives for “we can be even better still” Chris Andrade received were off putting, and the tension and unease as I walked down the aisle hurt. I just wanted to shout out for them all to know that my beard and my complexion do not define me, I wanted to shout out that my appearance was in support of my son who is battling juvenile leukemia! You see I needed an alibi for my beard, I wasn’t just any man choosing to grow a beard I was a man with brown skin (508) 252-6777 growing a beard. chuck@southcoast-benefits.com I’ve lived in Dighton and/or Rehoboth for 30 years, I’ve have had my 1 of my 8 sibling in the school system between 1987-2018 and have the unique experience of knowing that there is and has been racism rampant in (508) 259-1701 these towns for years! I know my older brothmike@southcoast-benefits.com ers personally saw it worse than I, I know one was cornered, verbally and physically Serving Southeastern MA & RI attacked, and called a nigger by people who coincidentally are currently raising children alongside my own now in this town. I know their children, their spouses. I treat them with love and respect, my hope and prayer is that they have changed and are sorry for their past! But that doesn’t mean it didn’t happen and affect my brother and my family’s life experiences.

Racism is subtle, it hides, and hides in 477 WINTHROP ST, REHOBOTH, MA plain sight, there are time you can’t prove it, can’t give evidence of it, but what happens over the span of 30 years is you watch the patterns and learn to understand the nuances of the language people use to hide it. You feel the unease in your conversations and interactions, but you stay quiet for you • Toilet tissue • Gloves • Face masks are an outsider to the majority and you feel • Kitchen towels • Disinfectants • Hand sanitizer you have no voice, you feel you need others who aren’t the oppressed to speak for you so as not to be labeled for “pulling the race-card again”. I long for a better future for my children in this community, where Buy 1 case of toilet tissue & receive a free quart of my wife isn’t questioned in the park if her children are all hers because they vary in Tek Bowl Sept - works great on hard water stains! darkness! I yearn for a community that is (Just mention this ad!) so moved to compassions, and pushes aside defensiveness, that it would listen, just listen and feel empathy for their neighbors!

Racism exists here in Dighton just as it does Simply call ahead to place your order: everywhere in this county, denying it doesn’t Monday-Friday from 9am−3pm: 508-252-3795 make it go away it allows it to grow and stay!

If you want it gone, you need to take action against it. Stand out against it when and if you ever see it!

At home talk with your children about it, ask questions, (I will work to be an open resource) because if you don’t and just

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you already know, the April 7, 2020 Annual Town Election was postponed to Tuesday, June 30, 2020 due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, State of Emergency, vote of the Board of Selectmen and State Elections approval. Over the past seven (7) years as your Town Clerk, I must admit, this election was the most difficult and stressful that I have ever conducted. My first concern was for our election workers, as most of our election workers fall within the vulnerable “over 60 years of age” category and many of them with underlying pre-existing health conditions. The CDC classified the age group of 60 and older at a higher risk for severe illness. CDC also stated that “severe illness means that the person with COVID-19 may require hospitalization, intensive care, or a ventilator to help them breathe, or they may even die.” My goal for the 6-30-2020 election was to keep our election workers healthy and safe while making sure everyone who wanted to vote in the Annual Town Election had the opportunity to do so. We were able to accomplish that goal thanks to all the wonderful voters in Rehoboth ~ thank you!

8 The Reporter July 2020

Rehoboth Town News From the Town Clerk

Hello All ~ Happy July!! OH MY GOODNESS ~ WHAT AN ELECTION!!!! As most of you already know, the April 7, 2020 Annual Town Election was postponed to Tuesday, June 30, 2020 due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, State of Emergency, vote of the Board of Selectmen and State Elections approval. Over the past seven (7) years as your Town Clerk, I must admit, this Laura Schwall election was the most difficult and stressful that I have ever conducted. My first concern was for our election workers, as most of our election workers fall within the vulnerable “over 60 years of age” category and many of them with underlying pre-existing health conditions. The CDC classified the age group of 60 and older at a higher risk for severe illness.

CDC also stated that “severe illness means that the person with COVID-19 may require hospitalization, intensive care, or a ventilator to help them breathe, or they may even die.” My goal for the 6-30-2020 election was to keep our election workers healthy and safe while making sure everyone who wanted to vote in the Annual Town Election had the opportunity to do so. We were able to accomplish that goal thanks to all the wonderful voters in Rehoboth ~ thank you!

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June 30, 2020 Annual Election June 30, 2020 AnnualTown Town Election Statistics Statistics

Official certified election results appear on page 10, but the Official certified election results appear below, but the highlights are: highlights are: 1,396 Voters 464 In-Person 474 Early Voters 458 Absentee 1,396 Total Voters

DRRSD – School Committee Aaron D. Morse Richard S. Barrett Ellen M. Corvi Anthony F. Arrigo Blanks & Write-Ins

780 693 642 566 111

Not Binding Ballot Question Speed Limit – 35 mph YES NO BLANK

857 442 97 1,396

1,396 (15% participation) voters voted in the 6/30/2020 Annual ¥ Election 1,396 (15% when participation) voted inexclusion/override the 6/30/2020 Annual Town Election when Town mostvoters non-debt annual town most non-debt exclusion/override annual town elections normally receive between 300elections normally receive between 300-800 voters in total (3-8% 800 voters in total (3-8% participation). The only contested race we had this election participation).

The only contested race we hadnomination this election (due to Ms. Samsel withdrawing her Board of Selectman after the(due ballots to Ms.were Samsel withdrawing her Board of Selectman nomination printed) was School Committee.

Four candidates were running for two positions.

The last contested School Committeewas race, School without an Committee. override/debt exclusion, April after the ballots were printed) Fourwas can4, 2016 we sawfora two total of 375 voters participating (4.29%) in that election. didates werewhere running positions.

The last contested School Comparing this election to the 4-4-2016 election, we saw an increase of 1,021 voters Committee race, without an override/debt exclusion, was April 4, participating in the June 30, 2020 election; we tripled the voter participation with this 2016 election. where we saw a total of 375 voters participating (4.29%) in that election. Comparing this election to the 4-4-2016 election, we ¥saw increase 1,021 voters participating the and June 30,of Duean to the Legislature of voting Section 1 of Chapter 45 of the Acts in of 2020 because the State of we Emergency by theparticipation Governor pursuant to executive order 591, 2020 election; tripleddeclared the voter with this election.

Declaration of a State of Emergency Respond to COVID-19 pandemic, Voting Due to the Legislature votingtoSection 1 of Chapter 45 of Early the Acts “by mail only” was voted as an option for voters for the first time ever in Spring of 2020 and because of the State of Emergency declared by the Municipal Election history. This allowed all voters wishing to participate in the Governor pursuant to executive order 591, of a State of a municipal election, but may be concerned about theirDeclaration health, the opportunity to request Emergency to COVID-19 Early voters Voting ballot to to voteRespond early by mail.

In addition, thepandemic, Legislature approved who“by were concerned about participating in the 2020 municipal elections, due to health concerns, that the COVID-19 pandemic health concerns would be added to the list of reasons for requesting an Absentee Ballot application. As a result, we sent out an Election Mailer on Friday, June 5th to every household in Rehoboth, informing the voters of the mail-in ballot application options. That election mailer, in addition to the Rehoboth Reporter printing the Absentee and Municipal Mail-In Ballot Applications in the June Reporter at

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July 2020 The Reporter mail only” was voted as an option for voters for the first time ever in Spring Municipal Election history. This allowed all voters wishing to LLC participate in the municipal election, but may be concerned about their health, the opportunity to request a ballot to vote early by mail.

In addition, the Legislature approved voters who were concerned about participating in the 2020 municipal elections, due to health concerns, that the COVID-19 pandemic health concerns would be added to the list of reasons for requesting an Absentee Ballot application. As a result, we sent out an Election Mailer on Friday, June 5th to every household in Rehoboth, informing the voters of the mail-in ballot application options. That election mailer, in addition to the Rehoboth Reporter printing the Absentee and Municipal Mail-In Ballot Applications in the June Reporter at our request, Free Estimates resulted in the mail-in ballot campaign being quite successful. A total of 932 mail-in ballots were received and votes processed for the June 30, 2020 election.

On May 26th, the Board of Selectmen voted and State Elections approved the reduction of the number of voting precincts (COA-Senior Center Only) and voting hours (12:00* p.m. Noon – 4:00 p.m.) due to 62% of the election workers surveyed not feeling comfortable working the election during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, in addition to the 932 voters who voted by mail, we processed 464 in-person voters who all wore masks and practiced social distancing protocols while voting in the COA-Senior Center ~ thank you all. Between the mailin ballots we received for the June 30, 2020 election and the in-person voting, we tripled the normal voter participation in an average “single contested race” Annual Town Election ~ thank you all who participated and had your vote counted. *Many have asked why the hours of 12:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. for the June 30, 2020 election. Unfortunately, election officials are mandated by Massachusetts General Law (MGL) and State Elections to open the polls no later than 12:00 p.m. Noon on Election day. MGL also requires a minimum of four hours for the polls to be open. To balance Dr. Debra George & Dr. Kelsey George the time the election workers would be potentially exposed to the virus with in-person voting and in light of the State voting to allow early voting by mail, the Selectmen and I felt a minimum of four hours would be acceptable for in-person voting. If voters were unable to get to the polling location, they did have the opportunity vote by mail, either Absentee or Early Voting by mail. Prior to the polling hours and locations being reduced, I was also required to send a comprehensive Contingency Plan (41-pages) for the 6-30-2020 Election to State Elections and a Waiver of Election Workers @ Polling Site (12-pages) to the Comonwealth’s Election Division. As a result, the Selectmen and Providing Orthodontic care in State Elections approved the polling location and hours for the June 30th election only.

South Attleboro / / Vineyard Haven Currently there is pending legislation for the September 1st Primary and November 3rd (508) 761-5230 / (508) 336-3066 / (508) 693-3766 Presidential elections. I will update you in next month’s article on what the Legislature voted.

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10 The Reporter July 2020

Thank You All

A heartfelt gratitude goes out to Assistant Town Clerk, Lynn Shaker and Administrative Aide, Odete Lacourse who have spent considerable hours, days, weeks, months processing mail-in ballot requests and for assisting with conducting the in-person voting and central tabulating facility for the early voted ballots on June 30th. All mail-in ballot applications were processed and mailed the same day we received them in our office.

For those of you who are unaware of the mail-in ballot application process, there are 17-steps to process a voter’s application when requested, sent and returned. Another 11-steps to process the ballots on election day and another 7-steps after the polls close; total of 35-steps to process one mail-in ballot request; we processed 932. Thank you, ladies, for your continued support, professionalism and dedication!

A huge thank you to Rehoboth Postmaster, Derek Melanson and his postal staff for expediting the processing of the mail-in ballots (to and from the Rehoboth voters).

There were times our office would drop off at the Rehoboth Post Office the mail-in ballots that we processed by 9:30 a.m. and voters received that mail-in ballot in their mailbox that same day! That is unheard of – most of the Town Clerks in Massachusetts have been complaining about the poor postal service they have been receiving in their towns/cities during the spring municipal mail-in ballot process this month. Thank goodness we have Derek and his dedicated postal staff, because that definitely is not the case in Rehoboth; we received expedited ballot processing service ~ thank you. On Election Day, Derek drove to the COA twice to deliver all the ballots he received on June 30th from the mail carriers and when the last postal truck from Providence delivered Rehoboth’s mail. Derek was late to a birthday celebration on the 30th because he wanted to make sure every voter who mailed in their ballot by the deadline was able to be processed. Thank you Postmaster Derek and the Rehoboth postal staff for expediting the processing of all Rehoboth voters’ mail-in ballots.

Thank you to my faithful and dedicated election workers who said YES they would work the June 30, 2020 election during the COVID-19 pandemic. I have to mention them by name ~ thank you, WardenKathy Sullivan; Clerk-Maureen Wittemore; Constables-Mike Deignan and Bill Dalpe; Police Sgt. Norman Todd; our first – “Student” Election Worker-Meghan Hastings; Greeters/Inspectors-Beverly DeBlois and Sandra Phillips; Hallway Inspector-Catherine Potter; Check-In Inspectors-Wendy WolfeCardarelli, Ray Olivier, Charlotte Castro, John Biello, Ken Grant and Odete Lacourse; Ballot Inspector-Jane Daggett; Voting Booth Inspectors-Lucille Amaral, Lorraine Botts and Bonnie Wolfe; Check-Out Inspectors-

July 2020 The Reporter Eve Viau; Jeanne O’Malley and Ann Sharp; Paper-Voting List Inspectors-Nancy Swallow and Dianne McCaffery. Thank you also, Precinct 1 & 3 Wardens: Bev DeBlois and Wendy Wolfe-Cardarelli and Clerks: Eve Viau & Ken Grant for helping Kathy and Maureen with setting up the three Accuvote scanners before the polls open and tallying at the close of the polls. A HUGE thank you to Lucille Amaral and Gerry Schwall who disinfected each voting booth after each voter completed their ballot and sanitized the bathrooms after each use.

Thank you, Aaron of M&S Cleaning, for disinfecting the COA/Senior Center after the election workers left. Another thank you to Scott Meager and the Ambulance Staff who came in to the Senior Center after M&S cleaned to sanitize and reactivate the disinfectant the next morning with their disinfectant UV-light to kill any germs that may have been left at the COA during the election. Thank you Linna and COA staff for allowing us to use the Senior Center and for working remotely on the 30th so we could conduct our election.

Thank you to Highway for placing the 6-foot social distancing markings inside and outside the COA. Finally, a huge thank you to Derek Rousseau and Gerry Schwall for helping us set up and take down all voting equipment at the COA-Senior Center.

It was a long day for all involved with the election even though the polling hours were reduced. Election workers showed up at 11:00 a.m., processed 464 in-person voters in a four-hour timeframe (12:00– 4:00 p.m.) then processed 458 absentee voter ballots and 474 early voter ballots. Everyone left the COA around 10:30/10:45 p.m.

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When voters arrived at the COA, they were met by two greeters who asked if they had any of the COVID-19 symptoms and if they knew the Precinct number where they usually vote. All voters wore masks or were given a mask if they forgot. Voters had the option of having their hands sanitized or wearing a new pair of gloves courtesy of the Town. Voters maintained a 6-foot distance from the voter in front of them. We were able to program the Poll-Pad check-in to allow voters to go to any poll pad rather than creating a bottle neck at the entrance of the voting area if one precinct had more activity than another. Election workers worked behind a 36” x 36” acrylic germ barrier and received a KN-95 mask, gloves, hand sanitizer and face shield from the Town. Voters moved from the check-in to the ballot table where the voter received a ballot and ballot pen of their own. NOTE: TO THOSE VOTERS WHO RECEIVED A BLACK FLAIR MARKER AT THE POLLING SITE ON 6-30-2020 . . . IF YOU STILL HAVE YOUR BALLOT MARKERS, PLEASE BRING THEM TO THE NEXT TWO ELECTIONS – 9/1/2020 AND 11/3/2020 FOR YOUR USE ONLY ~ THANK YOU J. Voters marked their ballot, took their ballot and marking pen with them and were directed to the Precinct Check-Out table.

Each voter was asked their name and scanned their ballot, exiting through the back of the building. (One way in and one way out.) When the voter finished voting, the voting booth was disinfected and dried prior to the next voter using the voting booth. I can’t thank the election workers and voters enough for following the safety protocols. It was a pleasure to watch democracy in action in the midst of a Pandemic ~ thank you all!!

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12

The Reporter July 2020

Congratulations Seekonk Town Clerk ~ Florice Craig and Retired Seekonk Town Clerk ~ Janet Parker

Seekonk held their Postponed Annual Town Election on June 30th also. They had two-contested races, Selectman and Town Clerk and had almost 10% of their voting population participate. I am happy to learn that incumbent Town Clerk, Florice Craig, was re-elected to her Town Clerk position. I understand two other candidates ran against Florice. Speaking from experience, the Town Clerk’s position is one that requires considerable training prior to being elected. Seekonk is fortunate to have Florice elected for another 3-year term as their Town Clerk. Also, I see congratulations are in order for Retired Seekonk Town Clerk, Janet Parker, who was voted for another three-year term as Assessor. Congratulations Ladies – it is a pleasure working with you both.

Calling All Interested Election Workers

I would like to thank the residents who stepped up and completed a talent bank form to become an election worker. Due to the State approving our reduced number of election workers for the 6-30-2020 Election, we did not have them work this election.

But I am sure things will be different for the September 1st Primary and November 3rd Presidential Election. We will not be able to combine precincts at the COA; voter turnout will be much higher and parking will be an issue. As a result, we will need many more election workers to staff the September and November Elections.

Therefore, if you are interested in becoming an election worker, please fill out a Talent Bank Form and submit to the Board of Selectmen’s Office as soon as possible. The Talent Bank form is available on the town website at: https://www.town.rehoboth.ma.us/sites/g/files/vyhlif4911/f/ uploads/talent_bank_form-revised.pdf I will be holding Election Worker Training for all new election workers sometime in August. If you would you like to be an Election Worker, please check my election worker training PowerPoint and handout materials on the Town Clerk’s page of the town website.

To view the PowerPoint, please go to: https://www.town.rehoboth.ma.us/town-clerk/pages/electionworker-training-resources and if, after reviewing the materials you would like to become an election worker, please fill out a talent bank form (available on the town’s website) @ https://www.town.rehoboth.ma.us/sites/rehobothma/files/uploads/talent_bank_form-revised.pdf

and become a part of our wonderful team. Elections usually require 15 hours of your time (6:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.); Town Meetings 4-5 hours (6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.) of your time. If you are interested, please fill out a talent bank form and send it in to the Board of Selectmen’s Office. More details on the upcoming 2020 election worker training to follow in my August Reporter article.

Non-Respondents To Annual Town Census

If you have not responded to the census, your voter status will change to inactive unless you return the signed confirmation card.

By signing the card, you are stating that you still live in the Town of Rehoboth. Individuals that are on the Inactive List (those who do not return our acknowledgement card or who have not answered our annual town census) will need to provide proof of continuous residency before being allowed to vote in any federal, state, or town election and/or town meeting. Please check your voter status here: https://www.sec.state.ma.us/voterregistrationsearch/myvoterregstatus.aspx If you are listed as “inactive”, please contact our office at 508252-6502 X-3109 or 3110 ~ thank you.

Dog Licenses

As you know, all dog licenses were due and payable by April 1st.

Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic and the cancellation of two rabies clinics we have waived the late fee. However, we must make sure all Rehoboth dogs have a valid rabies vaccine. Therefore, we do not know if or when we will be able to have a rabies clinic, so please have your dog vaccinated (if rabies vaccination has expired) and register your dog as soon as possible. You may also register your dog via mail to 148 Peck Street, drop off in the drop box outside of Town Hall or online at: https://www.invoicecloud.com/rehobothgovsvcs 24/7.

Unfortunately, if we do not receive your dog’s license renewal by August 1st, we will need to start charging a $15 late fee for each unregistered dog. Spayed/Neutered dogs are $10 each; not Spayed/ Neutered are $20 each. If you are over 70 years old, registration fees are waived; however, you still must keep your dog’s rabies vaccinations current and register your dog every year. Thanks so much for renewing your dog’s 2020 license as soon as possible.

Street Listings

We received the Annual Street Listings based on the 2020 Census data we gathered this year. If you would like a copy, there is a $15.00 charge. You may purchase online at https://www. invoicecloud.com/rehobothgovsvcs and click on Street Listings.

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Business owners are reminded that the application fee for a business certificate and/or business certificate renewal is $50.00 and that your certificate is valid for four years. New business owners must first go to Building Inspector/Zoning Officer, to complete a sign off sheet and then to the Town Clerk’s Office as your final step to be issued a Business Certificate. Information and forms are on the Town Clerk’s website: http://www.town.rehoboth.ma.us/town-clerk/pages/businesscertificates In closing, Lynn, Odete and I hope you all had a wonderful 4th of July and have a happy, healthy, safe, and memorable summer!

Please stay healthy and safe, please social distance whenever possible and please wear your masks when you cannot safely social distance. We need to keep Rehoboth healthy and safe for all residents ~ thank you. Thank you also for voting in the 6-302020 Annual Town Election. I look forward to chatting with you again in August.

Sincerely, Laura, Lynn & Odete

July 2020 The Reporter

13

Rehoboth Transfer Station Sticker Sale Starts July 7th

Another fiscal year is behind us, and it’s time for the new stickers at the Transfer Station. Sticker sales start on July 7th, and residents should purchase them by the end of the month. The stickers will be good until June 30, 2021, and will cost $40. Transfer Station hours are 4-7pm on Tuesdays, and 8am - 3pm on Saturdays. For those of you who may not be familiar with the Transfer Station, it is funded through pay as you throw fees, not through taxes. It is managed by the Board of Health. The Board would like to thank the Highway and Forestry Departments for their support services, such as plowing, sanding, and mowing. Both Departments go above and beyond to be helpful.

The annual sticker allows residents (no commercial use please) to utilize the facility, including the recycling area. Punch cards, 10 punches per card, cost $40 each, and disposal of one trash bag costs one punch. Other items have a varying number of punches required to cover disposal costs. The cost of trash disposal has increased, and we also must pay to dispose of some previously recyclable materials, as well as pay trucking costs. The punch card price had not been increased in 10 years, as the Board of Health has worked diligently to keep costs down. Unfortunately, we can no longer maintain services without additional revenue.

The recycling side of the Transfer Station has become one of the biggest issues we face. Years ago, we received rebates for the materials, now there is very little demand for any of it. China was once a top destination for U.S. material. In 2018, they imposed a strict contamination standard. They will not accept U.S. material that is more than 0.5% contaminated, and there is almost no U.S. market either. Contamination includes dirty materials, but mostly refers to materials that don’t belong. While we appreciate residents’ enthusiasm for recycling, it needs to be done correctly. We had a whole load of metal rejected by the recycler because they spotted a propane tank on the load. Propane tanks must be empty, and must be disposed of separately.

Our Transfer Station Manager, and workers, try to direct residents properly, but can’t catch everything. If there is a question as to where something belongs, please ask. For instance, clean plastic containers, #1 through #7, are accepted. Oil containers are trash, as are plastic toys. Oily food containers, such as peanut butter jars, should also be tossed. Cardboard should be clean. Don’t use it to catch the oil drips from your car, and then try to recycle it. Also, not recyclable, are cardboard items that are made to withstand moisture, or hold frozen food. Most of these have a waxy feel to them, and have a plastic coating. Metal is the only item we consistently get a rebate for, although it barely covers the trucking fee. Items must actually be metal. A lawn chair with an aluminum frame, and plastic webbing should not be thrown in. Cut off the webbing, include it in your trash, and the metal frame can be recycled.

Glass has not actually been recycled in years. It was used as landfill cover for some time, but at this point it’s hard to even pay to get rid of it. No one wants it. Trying to dispose of 11-13 tons of glass at one time, has become such an issue that we will no longer accept it. Please include it with you trash.

On a side note, this will make for some unhappy yellow jackets.

The single biggest item seen in the glass container in Rehoboth has been wine bottles. Since most have not been thoroughly rinsed out, there was often a large swarm of happy yellow jackets at the glass container!

Electronics contain precious metals, and often mercury. They need to go in a separate container, and we have to charge for that, due to the high cost of disposing of them. Mattress rates keep changing, so residents may want to check current prices. They must be clean and dry and get put in a separate container, NOT in the furniture bin. Most places that sell mattresses also can arrange to take the old ones for disposal, and residents are encouraged to use this option.

We accept properly recycled items, as well as household trash, bulky items, white goods, electronics, tires, paint, mattresses, and

EMPTY propane tanks. Charges for all these items vary. Check our website, or ask the Transfer Station Manager for prices. We also accept leaves and grass clippings at the compost bin, and residents may take composted material.

Construction And Demolition Material Cannot Be Accepted!

I hope these answer some of the questions that I have heard recently. Please help us to dispose of items properly, and don’t be afraid to ask employees where items should go.

Sincerely, Rachel Smith, Chairman, Board of Health

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The Reporter July 2020

Highway Department Seeking Qualified Truck Driver /Laborer

The Town of Rehoboth Highway Department is seeking a qualified Truck Driver /Laborer. You will operate a variety of trucks and equipment utilized in construction, maintenance and repair activities, and snow removal; Performs a variety of semi-skilled tasks in maintenance of streets, utility and storm drainage systems; performs manual labor as necessary. The complete job description and Applications are posted on the Town Web Site www.town.rehoboth. ma.us . or by calling 508-252-3912 ask for Stacy Vilao. Applications will be accepted until July 17th 2020.

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Contra Dances and Jammers Dances Cancelled

The Rehoboth contra dances and the Sunday Night Jammers community dances that are held at Goff Hall in Rehoboth, MA, have been cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic. The dances will resume when it is safe for them to take place again.

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July 2020 The Reporter

Morse, Barrett Win School Committee Seats

By Joe Siegel Newcomer Aaron Morse and incumbent Richard Barrett were elected to serve for three-year terms on the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Committee in Tuesday’s election. 1,369, or 15 percent of the town’s 9,045 active voters, cast ballots. Morse garnered 773 votes and Barrett got 684 votes. Incumbent Anthony Arrigo trailed with 553 votes. Newcomer Ellen Corvi got 629 votes.

“With 55 percent of the votes for school committee going to the fiscal responsibility ticket on such a large voter turnout, the clear message is that the district budget is a concern to the Town of Rehoboth,” Morse said Wednesday. “I’ve appreciated the opportunity to serve the town of Rehoboth and our students, and am glad to have worked with the committee members from both Dighton and Rehoboth as well as the district administration,” Arrigo said.

Selectmen Jim Muri and David Perry were both re-elected for three-year terms with 840 votes each. Their rival, Laura Dias Samsel, had withdrawn from the race but was still on the ballot. Samsel got 533 votes. Tax Collector Cheryl Gouveia ran unopposed for another three-year term and got 1113 votes. Riccardo Binetti ran unopposed for one three-year seat on the town’s Board of Assessors. Town Moderator William Cute was re-elected for another one-year term.

Cute was unopposed. Edward Bertozzi was elected to a five-year seat on the Planning Board. John David Kramer was elected to a five-year seat on the Park Commission. Patricia Vadnais and Katie E. Eyer were elected to serve three-year terms on the Water Commission.

Voters also approved a non-binding resolution to keep a speed limit of 35 on all town roads. 838 were in favor with 437 opposed.

Selectmen Approve Outdoor Seating Applications

By Joe Siegel The Rehoboth Board of Selectmen approved outdoor seating applications Monday for iAlive and the American Legion. Selectman Jim Muri said both facilities would have to comply with state guidelines during the coronavirus pandemic. The applications are in effect from June 29 until November 1 or when the state of emergency is lifted.

The Massachusetts Department of Health mandates the following regulations for all businesses: • All persons, including employees, customers, and vendors should remain at least six feet apart to the greatest extent possible, both inside and outside workplaces • Establish protocols to ensure that employees can practice adequate social distancing • Provide signage for safe social distancing • Require face coverings or masks for all employees • Provide hand washing capabilities throughout the workplace • Ensure frequent hand washing and ensure adequate supplies • Provide regular sanitization of high touch areas, such as workstations, equipment, screens, doorknobs, restrooms throughout work site • Provide training for employees regarding the social distancing and hygiene protocols • Employees who are displaying COVID-19-like symptoms do not report to work • Establish a plan for employees getting ill from COVID-19 at work, and a return-to-work plan • Establish and maintain cleaning protocols specific to the business • When an active employee is diagnosed with COVID-19, cleaning and disinfecting must be performed • Disinfection of all common surfaces must take place at intervals appropriate to said workplace

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Dighton-Rehoboth High School Graduation Set For August 1

By Joe Siegel Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School will be holding a non-traditional graduation on August 1 with a rain date of August 2.

Principal John Gould said the ceremony would be under the guidance of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). Gould said the majority of the senior class wanted graduation deferred to August.

“Some seniors requested a home delivery by Mr. Kelley, Dean of Student Activities, (Superintendent Anthony) Azar, and myself,” Gould said. “Some asked for their diplomas to be mailed to them.”

Last month, the State issued guidelines for high school graduations to be held outdoors after July 19. Seekonk High School’s graduation will be held on July 24. Due to the fears of spreading COVID-19, attendance will be limited to graduates and their immediate family members only.

“We will do our very best to include all immediate family members,” Gould added.

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The Reporter July 2020

Dighton-Rehoboth Slashes Budget, Announces Layoffs

By Joe Siegel The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Committee reluctantly voted to slash their 2021 budget by more than $1 million. Layoff notices will be sent out beginning July 1, which is the start of the new fiscal year.

Chairman Tom O’ Connor explained the committee had been advised by DESE (Department of Elementary and Secondary Education) to expect a drop in Chapter 70 funding estimated from 5 percent to as much as 20 percent.

The 19 positions eliminated include two foreign language teachers, one kindergarten teacher, five librarians, a district nurse, two general education teachers at Beckwith Middle School, two reading specialists, and one pre-kindergarten teacher from Palmer River Elementary School.

“That wide spread makes it very difficult to plan so we were forced to plan for the worst as best as possible,” O’Connor said.

“We stopped at a total reduction of 15 percent as anything more than that will severely hamper the District’s ability to provide programs benefiting its’ students.”

O’ Connor noted the school district is required by Massachusetts General Law to notify union members of layoffs by June 15th.

More budget cuts may include freshman sports, middle school sports, middle school clubs, high school non-service clubs, a school psychologist at the high school, and a few administrative positions.

O’Connor explained those cuts are not a sure thing.

“The District will wait on deciding on those cuts until after we know what Chapter 70 funding looks like from the state,” O’Connor said, noting some of the positions are already vacant from retirements or people moving on. Those position will not be backfilled.

In addition, O’Connor said some of the positions currently on the chopping block could be restored, depending on how much Chapter 70 funding is allocated to the district.

Azar Expresses Frustration Over School Budget

By Joe Siegel Dighton-Rehoboth School Superintendent Anthony Azar expressed his frustrations with what he perceived as a lack of financial support from state government. “They’re not fulfilling their responsibility, not only to Dighton-Rehoboth but an array of regional districts,” Azar said Tuesday. “It’s just unfortunate that we have to work within the confines of what DESE (Department of Elementary and Secondary Education) provides us. Our state senators and our representatives are absolutely silent on districts like D-R.” Azar warned of budget reductions which will have to be made unless more funding is provided by the state and federal government. “We have laid folks off, we have reduced, we can’t reduce anymore because if we do, our program of study will not be where we need it to be,” Azar said.

The School Committee had approved a $44 million budget for the 2021 fiscal year, which begins on July 1. However, with no vote being held on a town budget, the school district will revert to a 1/12th budget for the upcoming school year until a budget is approved for both towns. The committee also approved a tentative operating budget to the town of Rehoboth for kindergarten through 8th grade in the amount of $12, 271,678. The operating budget for Dighton is $10, 317, 787. The capital assessment for Rehoboth is $770, 700 and $403, 919 for Dighton. Rehoboth’s operating assessment is $18, 719, 770.

“I think we’ve done a remarkable job in Rehoboth and in Dighton and as a district to work within our means and that’s what we have to continue to do going forward,” Azar added.

Rehoboth Town Hall Resumes Operations

By Joe Siegel Town Hall resumed operations on June 8, with staffing set at a level of 25 percent capacity per office in order to allow for social distancing. However, the facility, which has been closed since the www. .com middle of March due to the coronavirus pandemic, is not yet open to the public, according to Town Administrator Deborah Arruda.

In a June 3 memo to town employees, Arruda noted the hours of operation will continue Monday through Thursday 8am to 4pm. “Whether working remotely or in the office. Fridays we will continue to work remotely 8am-12pm, until further notice,” Arruda wrote.

“Based on the guidance from the Department of Health, all employees will continue to wear face coverings in the office, wash hands as much as possible or use hand sanitizer, and keep personal areas sanitized,” Arruda added. Town Clerk and Treasurer/Collector are elected officials and will staff their offices according to the guidelines as well.

The building is being cleaned and disinfected twice a week by a cleaning service.

Employees are being encouraged to wipe down copiers and other commonly used areas after each use. All incoming mail will be quarantined for a 24 hour period. Selectmen have said that town buildings could be accessed by the public as early as July as the state enters Phase III of reopening.

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July 2020 The Reporter

Vadnais Appointed as Rehoboth BOS Chairman

By Joe Siegel Skip Vadnais was named as Chairman of the Board of Selectmen. Jim Muri will now serve as Vice-Chair and Dave Perry as Clerk.

Vadnais succeeds Gerry Schwall, who served as chair for the past two years. “You’ve done more than could be asked of anybody,” Perry told Schwall. Mike Costello said Schwall was “the hardest working selectman I have served with.” “He helped us out so much and still does,” Costello added. “We’ve been in some very trying times the past couple of years,” Muri said. “It started with a financial crisis which the schools that dramatically increased their budget and we had to deal with that and we managed to maintain our existing town services and also somehow manage to come up with money for the schools. Most recently we’ve been saddled with an epidemic. With (Schwall’s) leadership we have managed to steer this town through those crises and actually improve the town.”

“Everything that I did was not for the benefit of this board but for the taxpayers and for the people who elected me,” Schwall said.

“I did it for the people that voted for me.”

Meanwhile, selectmen noted the reason for reduced hours at the polls for the June 30 town election was due to a lack of volunteers.

All voting will be held at the Council on Aging from noon until 4 pm. “Those of you that would criticize that because we don’t have enough people to man it, I really didn’t see anybody stepping up to help,” Perry said, referring to comments made on social media.

Schwall said the COA was chosen because it is the “center of town” and notedMassachusetts General Law stipulates the polls can not open later than noon. “Every opportunity is out there for people to vote,” Schwall said, adding mail-in ballots were available for those who requested one.

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The Reporter July 2020

The Seekonk Scene Greetings from the Town Clerk’s office

Florice Craig

Summer is officially here. The Town Clerk’s office hopes everyone had a fun and safe Fourth of July. I’m sure it was different this year with everything that had been going on with the Covid-19 pandemic, but we hope you were able to spend some time with loved ones.

Annual Spring Town Meeting News

On June 22, 2020 Seekonk was finally able to hold its Spring Town Meeting, ironically one day after the official start of summer.

There was a lot of planning between many different departments to assure the residents of Seekonk a safe environment to be able meet and vote at this important town budget meeting. A special thanks to all the Town Hall employees who helped check -in and seat folks attending the meeting in the high school auditorium. It was nice to see that not only do we have a great team work ethic in town hall, but great team working outside town hall as well. Below is an outlined report of the meeting and votes.

Town Clerk called the meeting to order with a quorum of 75 registered voters at 7:10PM. A motion was made to allow non-residents to speak at the meeting. Passed unanimously

A motion was made to allow the Town Moderator to proceed with articles that might affect him personally. Passed unanimously.

A motion was made to allow Town Moderator to declare a 2/3 vote on articles requiring that vote. Passed unanimously.

Article 1 -To receive Town Officers or Committees reports.

Passed unanimously.

Article 2- Fiscal Year Budget 2021. Town Administrator presented the budget. Town moderator went line by line asking for questions, comments or discussion.

A motion was made to vote on the Proposed Operating Budget Board of Selectmen recommended budget column, not the Finance Committee’s recommended budget column. Motion passed.

Part I - A motion was made that the Town Appropriate the sum of $59,882,071 to defray charges and expenses of the Town for Fiscal Year 2021 for the purposes and amounts set forth in budget Schedules A through J in column m titled Board of Selectmen Budget 2021: The sum of $46,101,151 to be raised by taxation within the levy limit under proposition 2 ½; The sum of $800,000 to be transferred the Overlay Surplus; The sum of $900,000 to be transferred from Ambulance Fees; The sum of $52,457 to be transferred from sanitation Enterprise Fund; The sum of $300,000 to be transferred from Dedicated Receipts; The sum of $9,417 to be transferred from Septic Payback. Motion passed.

Part II – A motion was made that the Town appropriate the sum of $1,242,586 to defray charges and expenses of operating the Sanitation Enterprise Fund for the Fiscal Year 2021 for the purpose

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July 2020 The Reporter and amount set forth in Schedule K in the column titled Board of Selectmen Recommended budget 2021; The Sum of $1,242,586 to be provided from revenues of the Sanitation Enterprise Fund. Motion passed.

Article 3- Salary and compensation for elected officials. Action on the motion: Motion passed.

Article 4- Authorize transfer of money from Dog license receipts to Animal Control Dept. Motion passed.

Article 5- Town appropriate the sum of $85,506.96 from the Ambulance Receipts account for year two (2) of the four (4) year lease purchase agreement for an ambulance/EMS vehicle for the Fire Department. Motion passed.

Article 6- Town will raise and appropriate, transfer from free cash or available funds in the treasury, or transfer from designated funds that have been reserved for appropriation the following sums to be expended for departmental equipment including new or continuing leases for such equipment, and including all incidental and related expenses; and, further, to authorize appropriate town officials to enter into contracts for more than three (3) years for such purposes, as applicable, or take any other action relative thereto.

A. From the Municipal Capital Stabilization Fund the following sums to be expended as follows: 1. Year seven (7) of a seven (7) year lease/purchase of an aerial fire apparatus for the Fire Department to be expended under the direction of the Board of Selectmen. $106,852.80 2. Year five (5) of seven (7) year lease/purchase of a Fire Engine to be expended under the direction of the Board of Selectmen. $80,713.47 3. Year three (3) of a seven (7) year lease/purchase for a Fire Engine to be expended under the direction of the Board of Selectmen. $87,745.10 4. Purchase of Chameleon Animal Shelter software to be used

by Animal Control to be expended under the direction of the Board of Selectmen. $25,000.00

19

5. Purchase and equipping of a cargo van to be used by Animal Control Department, to be expended under the direction of the Board of Selectmen. $55,000.00 6. Purchase and installation of an emergency generator for the Animal Shelter, to be expended under the direction of the Board of Selectmen. $45,000.00 7. Purchase and installation of upgraded security camera system for the Public Safety Building, to be expended under the direction of the Board of Selectmen. $35,000.00 8. Year one (1) of a three (3) year lease/purchase for purchase and equipping of a backhoe for use by the Department of Public Works to be expended under the direction of the Board of Selectmen. $50,000.00 9. Purchase and installation of Public Safety camera server for the Communications Department to be expended under the direction of the Board of Selectmen. $15,000.00 10. Design and construct trail improvements to the Runnins River Trail, supervised by the Conservation Agent and expended under the direction of the Board of Selectmen. $30,000.00 11. Purchase and equipping of one (1) heavy duty pickup truck with plow for the Public Works Department, to be expended under the direction of the Board of Selectmen. $45,000.00 12. Purchase and equipping of one (1) medium duty dump truck with plow for the Public Works Department, to be expended under the direction of the Board of Selectmen. $70,000.00 13. Design and construct sports field renovations to Cole Street (softball field #3), supervised by the Parks & Recreation Department, to be expended under the direction of the Board of Selectmen $30,000.00 14. Purchase and installation of a backup and data recovery server for use by the Police Department, expended under the direction of the Board of Selectmen. $20,000.00 continued on next page...

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The Reporter July 2020

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15. Purchase and installation of replacement carpet at the Police Department, to be expended under the direction of the Board of Selectmen. $20,000.00 16. Purchase and installation of replacement roof top HVAC AACON Unit at Hurley Middle School, to be expended under the direction of the School Committee. $85,000.00 17. Purchase and equipping of one (1) utility truck with plow for use by the School Department, to be expended under the direction of the School Committee. $65,000.00 18. Purchase and equipping of one (1) utility vehicle for use by the Building Inspection Department, to be expended under the direction of the Board of Selectmen. $30,000.00 19. Purchase and installation of replacement Public Safety IMC Server, for use by Police, Fire and Communications Departments, to be expended under the direction of the Board of Selectmen.

Motion passed with a 2/3 required vote.

Article 7- Moved that the Town vote to appropriate from the Community Preservation Fund FY 2021 estimated annual revenues the sum of $22,100 for administrative expenses of the Community Preservation Committee for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2021; and further to reserve from such revenues for future appropriation the following sums recommended by the Community Preservation Committee, with each item to be considered a separate reservation Historic Resources Reserve $44,200 Community Housing Reserve $44,200 Open Space Reserve $44,200 FY 2021 Budgeted Reserve $432,016 Motion passed Article 8- Moved that the Town vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to dispose of surplus property or material, exclusive of buildings and land, but including compost, no longer needed by the Town.

Motion passed Article 9- Moved that the Town vote to transfer the sum of $8,477.00 from Free Cash to FY 2020 Town Meeting Line Item #68 (Snow & ice Payroll), and $87,097.00 from Free Cash to FY 2020 Town Meeting line #39 (Snow and Ice Expense). Motion passed Article 10- Moved that the Town appropriate from the Ambulance receipts Reserved account the sum of $15,000.00 for the purchase of the necessary equipment and medications to outfit both in service fire engines allowing them to be licensed by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to operate at the Paramedic level, to be expended under the direction of the Board of Selectmen. Motion passed Article 11- Moved that the Town appropriate from Fee Cash, the sum of $140,000.00 to mill and overlay Donald Lewis Drive, Massasoit Drive and Colfall Street, to be expended under the direction of the Board of Selectmen. Motion passed Article 12- Moved that the Town amend Section 3.2 of the Town of Seekonk Zoning By-laws and Zoning Map by changing the designation of the property located at 0 Taunton Avenue and Elden Street, and identified as Seekonk Assessor’s Plat 12, Lots 489, 490, 491, 492, 493, 494, and 495, containing approximately .45 acres of land from Highway Business Zone to Local Business Zone. Passed with a 2/3 majority.

Article 13- Moved that the Town amend Section 3.2 of the Town of Seekonk Zoning By-laws and the Zoning Map by changing the zoning designation of the property located 0 Lake Street, identified as Seekonk’s Assessor’s Pat 16, Lots 30 and 32, containing approximately 25.45 acres of land from R-4 Zone to R-2 Zone.

Passed with a 2/3 majority.

Article 14- To see if the Town will vote to amend Category 8, Section 6 of the General By-laws of the Town of Seekonk. Passed with a 2/3 majority.

Article 15- Moved that the Town appropriate from Free Cash the sum of $13,000.00 the purchase of a stump grinder for use by the Public Works Department, under the direction of the Board of Selectmen.

Motion Passed

July 2020 The Reporter

21

Article 16- Moved that the Town vote to appropriate the sum of $425,000.00, to pay for the costs of designing, planning, and engineering for construction of a South End Fire Station on land owned by the Town of Seekonk at 36 School Street, including the payment of all architectural and engineering services, and any other costs incidental or related thereto, and that to meet this appropriation, the Treasurer, with the approval of the Board of Selectmen, is authorized to borrow said amount under and pursuant to M.G.L. c. 44, § 7(1) or any other enabling authority, and to issue bonds or notes of the Town therefor, and that any premium received upon the sale of bonds or notes approved by this vote, less any such premium applied by this vote in accordance with M.G.L. c. 44, § 20, thereby reducing the amount authorized to be borrowed to pay such costs by like amount; and, further, that the Town Moderator is to establish a five (5) member building committee to facilitate the project.

Motion passed with the 2/3 majority.

Article 17-Moved that the Town authorize the Board of Selectmen and Conservation Commission to grant a perpetual conservation restriction to the Seekonk Land Conservation Trust or other qualified conservation organization on a parcel of land off Read street, identified as Assessor Map 26, Lot 13, consisting of approximately 9.93 acres, in order to meet the requirements of M.G.L. Chapter 44B, § 12 and M.G.L. Chapter 184, §§ 31-33, and to further authorize said board and commission to enter into all agreements and execute any and all instruments as may be necessary in connection with said conservation restriction. Motion passed.

A motion was made to dissolve the Town Meeting at 10:05PM. Motion passed with a unanimous vote.

Annual Town Election June 30, 2020 Results

I would like to thank all the voters of Seekonk who came out and showed their support in re-electing me as their Town Clerk.

Thank you for your support. I will always do my best to serve the citizens of this town and maintain your trust. I would also like to take this time to thank all the people who make an election happen. Starting with the Assistant Town Clerk, Lorraine Sorel, she did an excellent job running the election, as I was on the ballot an unable to be at the polls. It wasn’t easy this year we had to take extra precautions due to the covid-19. We are lucky to have so many dedicated workers behind the scenes, Poll workers, DPW, Police Dept., School staff. Many thanks to each and every one of you your dedication doesn’t go un-noticed.

Congratulations to the other candidates who won: Jan Parker- Board of Assessors David Andrade- Board of Selectmen Adam Petronio- Board of Selectmen Catherine Capello-Library Board of Trustees Fred Slemon- Jr. Library Board of Trustees Michael Bourque- Planning Board Sandra Foulkes- Planning Board Erin Brouillette- School Committee Peter Hoogerzeil- Town Moderator Douglas Brown- Water Commission Lydia Cordeiro -Water Commission

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July 2020 The Reporter

The Elections Coming Up This Fall

State Primary Tuesday, September 1, 2020 General Election Tuesday November 3, 2020

More information about early voting dates for these elections will be forthcoming in the following weeks.

We encourage everyone to vote early by mail. Spread the word, encourage your family and friends to vote early. Applications for absentee and early voting can be found on our town website www. seekonk-ma.gov or you can call the Town Clerk’s office at: (508) 336-2920 and we will mail one out to you.

Census Information

As of June 16, 2020, the population for the Town of Seekonk was: 13,619 (Please note this figure is continually changing due to people being added and deleted off the voter rolls and people moving in or out of town).

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Cemetery Information

The Town Clerk’s office maintains the records for both Seekonk Cemeteries: Newman Avenue Cemetery and Dexter Street Cemetery. The first deeds sold for the Newman Avenue Cemetery date back as far as 1899. There are very few lots left in this cemetery, most are lots that people have been selling on their own as they find they do not need them. As of July 1, 2017, we have a new cemetery. It is off of Dexter Avenue which is located off of West River Street. It is in a beautiful quiet area. Lots for this cemetery are available to purchase.

Seekonk residents - Single lot: $600.00 Perpetual care: $200.00 Total: $800.00 Non-resident - Single lot: $800.00 Perpetual care: $400.00 Total $1,200.00

Yard Sale Information

Remember you need a yard sale permit for yard sales. You can get them online, on the town web site www.seekonk-ma.gov under the Town Clerk page. It is $5.00 a day with a total of 4 per year. There is a sign by-law in town concerning yard sale signage.

Please be advised that it is not permitted to use telephone poles to post any type of sign. If you are going to have a yard sale please abide by the rules of the town. Thank you.

Enjoy the summer weather and remember the Town Clerk’s office welcomes inquiries from all residents seeking assistance, or information in relation to services provided by the Town of Seekonk.

Florice Craig, Town Clerk & Lorraine Sorel, Assistant Town Clerk

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Bulky Waste Pickup Resumes

For Seekonk residents on the trash and recycling program, the pickup of bulky waste items has resumed its normal schedule. Appliances, metal items and electronics will be collected curbside on the third Tuesday of each month. Furniture and most other items will be collected on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month. The stickers can be purchased at the town DPW office, which will be reopening to the public the week of July 6th, by mail or in person. The cost for the stickers has not changed with $12.00 for appliances, and $4.50 for most other items.

Thank you for your assistance, Bill Kirchmann Recycling Coordinator

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The Reporter July 2020

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Doorways Food Pantry has been operating in high gear in recent weeks. Social distancing has necessitated a shift to curbside “pop your trunk” food distribution, but the food pantry has continued to distribute thousands of dollars of groceries to Seekonk households in need of food support.

The economic upheaval brought on by the Covid-19 shutdown has created a massive increase in demand at food pantries statewide, which in turn has caused the Greater Boston Food Bank (GBFB) to place severe restrictions on the amount of food that Doorways can purchase on a monthly basis. “Our distribution model is based on buying from the GBFB at greatly reduced prices.

Under normal circumstances, we typically receive between 8,00010,000 pounds of food per month from the Boston Food Bank” said Doug Hayward, chairman of Doorways. “But in May, the Boston Food Bank cut our allowable purchases in half; we had to reduce our food distribution from every week to every two weeks.”

“But then in June, we received word that the Boston Food Bank is cutting our allowable purchases AGAIN – we’ll be reduced to purchasing 2,500 pounds of food per month! That’s a 75% decrease since April – I don’t know how we can continue to supply over 60 local households with ample quantities of nourishing food when we face these kind of restrictions” said Hayward. “We’ve been purchasing much more food at retail, and we’ve been trying to keep our clients going by distributing Stop & Shop prepaid cards on the ‘off’ weeks– but we are burning through funds at an alarming rate.

Frankly, I’m worried.”

Hayward reports that response from the townspeople has been very encouraging. “We have received very generous contributions from individuals, churches, civic organizations and local business people. Their donations have covered much of the additional expenses thus far – but I hope the donations will continue to come in, because it looks like we will have increased costs for quite some time to come.”

If you have never donated to Doorways, we respectfully ask that you please consider doing so. If you have previously donated, thank you. We would ask, humbly, that you consider another contribution (many have already done so). If you are in need of our services, we welcome you. We know how uncertain these times are and we truly are ‘Our Brother’s Keeper’.

Donations to Doorways can be sent to PO Box 295, Seekonk, MA 02771. As always, thank you for your support.

July 2020 The Reporter

Flamingos? In Seekonk?

Yes, flamingos are coming to Seekonk! Starting July 15, be on the lookout for baby lawn flamingos to start appearing in yards throughout town. The flamingos are part of Seekonk Public Library’s Summer Reading Challenge for children in preschool through grade 5. Children who sign up for the program are challenged to read 15 minutes a day and log their reading time online at least once a week. After they read for 7 hours they earn a plastic, baby lawn flamingo for their front yard. In addition, the children will be invited to decorate their lawn flamingos to reflect the summer reading theme of imagination. If 7 hours seems like a lofty goal, it’s actually just 15 minutes a day for a month. Or, for children who want to spend more time reading, they will earn their flamingo in just two weeks if they read 30 minutes a day.

If you know a child in town, encourage them to sign up for the program at seekonkpl.org/kids. It’s free, the kids can read anything they want and there are incentives such as virtual badges and raffle prizes. Then keep an eye out starting July 15 to see how many flamingos start appearing in yards! For more details about the program, visit seekonkpl.org/kids, email childrens@seekonkpl.org or call the Children’s Librarians, Sharon Clarke and Sandie Gauthier at 508-336-8230 x56140

Recommended Seekonk Town Solar Energy Development

Recommended Seekonk Town Solar Energy Development

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6. The Aiken School was omitted due to a miscommunication but could have rooftop solar panels.

7. The Energy Committee has been assured that solar panels can be mounted at the landfill without disturbing the cap seal.

Structural analysis will be done to assure that roofs can hold the panel load. Typically, no reinforcement is required.

This may seem too good to be true but the solar developers can do this because they get state and federal subsidies and state and federal tax breaks that are not available to the Town. continued on next page...

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It is recommended that the Town of Seekonk develop a Solar It is recommended that the Town of Seekonk develop a Solar Energy Project Energy Project at the old landfill behind the American Legion to at the old landfill behind the American Legion to generate revenue for the town at no cost to the generate revenue for the town at no cost to the Seekonk taxpayers.

Seekonk taxpayers.

After five months of study including discussions with solar energy developers the Seekonk Energy Committee reported to the ofofSelectmen (BOS)with Meeting May the 15, 2019 with a AfterBoard five months study including discussions solar energyon developers Seekonk Energy Committee reported to the of Selectmen (BOS) Meeting on May 15, 2019at with a recommendation recommendation toBoard develop a Solar Energy Project the old landfill to developthe a SolarAmerican Energy Project at the old landfillItbehind American recommended Legion. It was further that behind Legion. wasthefurther recommended that this could be done via a turnkey lease agreement with a developer. Based on this could be done via a turnkey lease agreement with a developer. modeling by one developer it was estimated that the Town could receive $1,000,000 in revenue over 30 Based on modeling byreceive onea developer itallwas estimated the years. In addition, the Town would discounted rate on electricity generated bythat this project.

Town could receive $1,000,000 in revenue over 30 years. In addition, the Town would receive a discounted rate on all electricity The below tableby summarizes estimated lease agreements for the landfill ground mounted and school generated this project. rooftop mounted panels. A model layout for solar panels at the landfill is attached.

The below table summarizes estimated lease agreements for the landfill ground mounted and school rooftop mounted panels.

Location Landfill behind American Legion High School Rooftop School Rooftop Total

Middle School Rooftop Martin

First Year Payment

$28,000

$15,000

$7,500 $7,200 $58,000

30 Year Payments

$1,000,000

$550,000

$280,000

DC Power Capacity

1960

690

310

290

3250

8

8

8

SMART Base Rate Block 8

$260,000

$2,100,000

Location Adder Landfill Building Mount Building Mount Building Mount Location Block 1

1

1

1

Offtake Adder Community Solar Solar

Community Solar

Offtake Block

9

9

9

9

Community Solar

The The following notes apply to the table: following notes apply to the table:

Community

1. These estimates are non-binding but serve to identify the commercial components for lease negotiations. These commercial components are derived from assumed SMART base rate and adder blocks which are subject to change.

2. The typical term of the lease would be 20 years with options for two 5-year extension, 3. The Town can expect to receive quarterly payments.

4. Typically, there will be a fixed percentage for an annual payment escalator 5. The Town Utility is National Grid

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The Reporter July 2020

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July 2020 The Reporter Furthermore, State Law, Chapter 25, Section 11I, makes it easy for municipal government agencies to execute solar energy projects. Per this Section the Town does not need to go for competitive bids but rather use a Request For Qualifications process to select a vendor. Alternatively, the Town can use a competitive bid process.

Two things we should learn from the COVID-19 pandemic are: (1) our complex society and economy is very fragile and (2) dire scientific predictions can and likely will come true. The climate scientists are predicting that the effects of climate change will make the pandemic seem mild. Furthermore, scientist predict that we need to take many radical actions in the next decade to prevent going over a tipping point from which there is no return on the climate crises.

27

Let’s be proactive to mitigate the predicted climate crisis. Not reactive as we have been forced to be with the predicted pandemic.

It is going to take a lot more than a few acres of solar panels to avoid the climate crises but we have an opportunity to reap this low hanging fruit at no cost to the taxpayers. It will even provide some funds that we can re-invest in other energy saving items such as efficient heat pump HVAC systems for the town buildings.

This is a win, win, win, win: The taxpayers win. The environment wins. Our children and grandchildren win. The economy wins because it creates green jobs.

The Seekonk Energy Committee hopes that the BOS will act decisively now to execute the recommended Town Solar Energy Project so that the Town does its part to mitigate the climate crises and stimulate the local economy while reaping local benefits from the state and federal taxes that Seekonk citizen are paying.

Charles Beauchamp, Chair Seekonk Energy Committee

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The Reporter July 2020

Seekonk Land Trust

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Mary Wilson’s Vision: Edna Martin’s Legacy

If you’re a local, then surely you’ve driven down Fall River Avenue, and perhaps you’ve noticed ~ or you should Quality Workmanship take notice of ~ The Edna Martin Wildlife Refuge located adjacent to the Grist Mill Tavern. This 28 acre property runs along the Runnins River and surrounds Burr’s Pond with several wide, maintained trails that are available for passive recreation.

Wood & Vinyl Siding The Refuge has 2 entrances: one next to the American Legion Post by the town dump entrance where there is a Roofing • Decks kiosk with maps, signage and rules posted; and the other Cement Work

by Burr’s Pond waterfall. Both areas have ample parking.

Originally, the land and the 3 homes here belonged Additions & Restorations Edna Martin who was a 9th generation of the Martin family New Construction in Seekonk. As an artist and a craftswoman, she was a well known part of the local landscape and offered private Remodeling art lessons to many residents of Seekonk and Rehoboth — many of whom still have Miss Martin stories to tell. She graduated RI School of Design in 1917 and headed the art Edna Martin (1896 – 1996) who Rehoboth, MA bequeathed this refuge to us. department at Lincoln School for 44 years. Born in 1896, LICENSED & INSURED Edna Martin lived to 100 years and died in 1996 leaving her land and three houses to the MA #058544 Reg # 111902 RI# 7169 Seekonk Land.

Conservation Trust (SLCT). As allowed in her gift to the Land Trust, the homes were sold and enabled the SLCT to establish an endowment as well as the Martin Wildlife Refuge that opened to the public in 1999.

Other people might remember Miss Martin’s menagerie of horses, ponies and sheep which she cared for herself with a RAVASSOS & USIAK minimum of help from friends. Because she used the trails for her carriages and sleighs they make a particularly nice walking area.

Three trails cover most of the property with a viewing bench for Burrs Pond located along the way. A shorter trail, accessed by Burr’s Pond lot, goes to a bridge which the SLCT plans to restore in the future. From either end, it’s a short hike and offers great bird Broker/owner, GRI, notary watching, woodland trails, some upland glacial morraine and ample passive views by Burrs Pond and the Runins River.

As a backdrop to the establishment of the Martin Wildlife Refuge (401) is a personal and fascinating story. In 1967 three local residents, Mary Wilson, Marcus Munsill and Lawrence Weyker, signed Articles www.TKREB.com of Trust establishing the SLCT in order to pursue another local woman, Mary Wilson’s, longterm goal that ‘a deer should be able to run from the north end to the south end of town on open space’.

Mary Wilson, a good friend of Edna Martin through the Garden Club, felt that Seekonk residents shouldn’t have to travel to Maine to enjoy clean air and walks through the woods and fields, but should be able to enjoy such things right here in Seekonk. After Mary Wilson died in 1992 the Land Trust established an Environmental Resource Center at the Seekonk Library to promote environmental education and as a lasting memorial to her service to the community.

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July 2020 The Reporter

Petronio, Andrade, Craig Win Seekonk Election

By Joe Siegel Voters in Tuesday’s town election placed their faith in Selectman David Andrade, Town Clerk Florice Craig, and newcomer Adam Petronio, who will replace Nelson Almeida on the board of selectmen. Petronio garnered 685 votes, Andrade followed with 584, and Almeida had 515.

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the election was postponed from April. 1071 voters showed up to cast ballots at Seekonk High School. Petronio, who is an Army veteran and works for the Rhode Island National Guard, was a write-in candidate for selectman in 2019. “I’m glad it’s over,” Petronio said. “Now the true job begins.”

Andrade, who will now serve a third consecutive term, was pleased with the results. “(The voters) thought what I was saying was common sense,” Andrade said.

Craig, who faced rivals Sandra Escaler and Bryan Mulvey, was “happy the voters put their trust in me.” Craig won 783 votes, with Escaler getting 152 and Mulvey with only 73.

Erin Brouillette ran unopposed for another three-year term on the school committee. Former Town Clerk Jan Parker ran unopposed for a three-year seat on the Board of Assessors. Michael Bourque and Sandra Foulkes ran unopposed for two 5-year seats on the Planning Board. Catherine Capello and Fred Slemon ran unopposed for two 3-year seats on the Library Board of Trustees.

Douglas Brown and Lydia Cordeiro ran unopposed for two seats on the town’s Water Commission. Brown’s term is for three years, Cordeiro’s is for one year. Town Moderator Peter Hoogerzeil was re-elected for another three year term, with no opposition.

29

Seekonk Schools Will Reopen with New Guidelines

By Joe Siegel On Thursday, Governor Charlie Baker’s office and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education released their initial guidance about reopening schools this fall. “Our goal is for a safe return of as many students as possible to in-person school settings in order to best meet students’ academic, social, and emotional needs,” said Seekonk School Superintendent Rich Drolet in a letter to parents and students. “We are now reviewing the guidance to begin to understand how it impacts what we can and will do in Seekonk. These initial guidelines do not address every topic and there will be additional guidance coming throughout the summer.”

These are some key components of the state’s recommendations: • Current medical research supports a safe in-person return to school - with preventive measures in place - as infection and transmission rates are lower for children than adults • Preventive measures include masks/face coverings, physical distancing, hand-washing, and cleaning frequently touched surfaces • Masks/face coverings will be required for all students in Grade 2 and above and for all adults; they are recommended for students in Grade 1 and below • Based upon current medical research, and in conjunction with other preventive measures, a minimum physical distance of three feet has been established.

School districts will also need to develop three separate plans one for return to full in-person instruction with safety requirements, one for full remote learning, and one for hybrid learning that combines in-person and remote learning.

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The Reporter July 2020

Seekonk Gets New Police Chief

By Joe Siegel Selectmen appointed Dean Isabella to serve as the town’s new Police Chief. The vote was 4-1. Chairman David Andrade, Justin Sullivan, David Viera, and Chris Zorra were in favor, with Nelson Almeida opposed.

Isabella worked for the Department of Children, Youth, and Families in Rhode Island as assistant director of Child Services, overseeing the Child Protective Services unit that investigates child abuse. Isabella, who lives in Narragansett, had been a member of the Providence Police Department since 1987 and retired as a captain last August.

Town Administrator Shawn Cadime, who was a member of the search committee, said “there was no question on (Isabella’s) ability to mentor the department and his ability and desire to create a long-lasting succession plan.”

“I believe we do have excellent men and women in our current police department,” Almeida said before the vote. “It’s unfortunate that there wasn’t an internal candidate that (was) selected. I can’t see myself supporting an outside candidate coming in to running our police department.” However, Almeida pledged to make sure Isabella “succeeds in his position.”

Last January, members of the police department lobbied selectmen on behalf of Interim Chief David Enos. Enos was appointed to serve as Chief on an interim basis following the retirement of Frank John last July. John had been placed on administrative leave in March 2019 after being in the position for six months. Enos had been appointed to serve as Deputy Chief.

Town Meeting Attendees Practice Social Distancing

By Joe Siegel Seekonk’s Spring Town Meeting had a very different look and feel than past meetings. In an effort to keep voters safe and to prevent the spread of the deadly coronavirus, town officials required all attendees to pre-register for the meeting at Seekonk High School.

There were many empty seats in the auditorium to allow for social distancing. Some attendees sat in the school’s gymnasium, where volunteers checked in voters by precinct. Bottles of hand sanitizer were available and a mask or face covering was mandatory for all participants.

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The voters approved a 2021 budget of $61 million. The budget includes the new position of Human Resources Director/Assistant Town Administrator at a cost of $90,000 a year. $30.2 million was designated for the school department. A number of fund transfers and zoning bylaw changes were also voted on during the meeting, which had been postponed a month due to the pandemic.

“These are unprecedented times,” said Town Administrator Shawn Cadime, who thanked the voters for “fighting through this.”

Seekonk School Committee Votes on Coaches Salaries

By Joe Siegel The School Committee voted 4-1 to withhold payment for salaries for the 2020 spring season coaches until a new agreement can be reached with Seekonk Educators Association (SEA).

Chairperson Kim Sluter, Beth Eklund, Erin Brouillette, and Sonig Schiller voted yes, with Noah Escaler in opposition. Escaler felt it was “not reasonable” to use the coronavirus pandemic as justification for not paying staff members.

“Let’s move forward, learn from our mistakes this year and solidify contracts with coaches and advisors so that we are not facing this issue for the coming years,” Escaler said.

“In our role as school committee members, we do have a fiduciary responsibility to the town of Seekonk and we are committed to doing right by the entire community,” Sluter explained.

The SEA voted last month to reject a plan proposed by the School Committee to cut the 2020 Spring Season Coaches Salaries by 75 percent. Seekonk Coaches, whose salaries are covered in the SEA contract with the town, have been working with their teams and athletes all along in compliance with the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) guidelines, according to SEA President Sharon Ahern.

“The economic impact of COVID-19 is just starting,” Sluter added. “It’s going to reach much farther and beyond the spring and the school committee seeks to work collaboratively with the SEA to make the best possible decisions for our public school.”

Seekonk Town Administrator Evaluation Process

By Joe Siegel The Board of Selectmen have agreed to review Town Administrator Shawn Cadime’s job performance on an annual basis, following the conclusion of the Spring Town Meeting. The review and evaluation will be based on the goals and objectives developed jointly by the board and Cadime.

“The evaluation tool itself should always be a living, breathing document in order to make sure we’re getting it right,” said selectman Justin Sullivan at last week’s meeting.

Last September, Cadime signed a new three-year contract with the town. Cadime will continue in the position through July 31, 2022.

Cadime’s salary will be $173, 747, then will increase to $177, 221 on August 1, 2020, and $180, 766 on August 1, 2021.

The contract also states: “In the event of the death of the town administrator while in the employ of the town of Seekonk, the employee’s beneficiaries shall be entitled to a ten thousand dollar direct payment.”

Cadime has served as town administrator since 2014. He is also a member of the Fall River City Council.

July 2020 The Reporter

31

People In The News URI Engineering Professor Helping ALS Patients Use their Brains to Communicate

Studying Patterns in Brain Waves May Lead to a New Method of Communication

Doug Sawyer was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, 11 years ago. His only muscles that still function are those that control eye movement.

Despite his disability, Sawyer still works as an engineer from his home, designing electronics for Hayward Industries. Using only his eyes, the 57-year-old writes reports and other papers, draws pictures and schematics, talks on the phone, sends text messages and emails, and attends meetings online multiple times a week.

However, Sawyer’s gaze weakens as he gets tired, causing the technology he currently uses to become ineffective. That’s why the Seekonk, Massachusetts resident was eager to work with University of Rhode Island Assistant Professor Yalda Shahriari to develop a new way for ALS patients to communicate.

Shahriari and her team of student researchers in URI’s College of Engineering are developing a way for those with severe motor deficits such as ALS to communicate using brain signals, eliminating the need for patients to maintain fine eye-gaze control.

Her project, funded by a National Science Foundation (NSF) grant, has two main goals. The first is to develop multimodal personalized algorithms to improve the robustness of the braincomputer interface (BCI) systems for patients with severe motor deficits. The second is to develop an autonomous hybrid system for non-communicative patients who are without residual motor control, such as those who lose their fine eye-gaze control in the late stages of ALS. Through longitudinal recordings taken of several patients with ALS during this and previous projects, Shahriari and her group have noticed significant day-to-day variations in brain-computer interface performance.

“These variations are speculated to be associated with several factors, including cognitive fluctuations and environmental factors,” said Shahriari. “Developing personalized algorithms will enable us to predict these fluctuations and optimize performance based on each patient’s specifications and needs.” continued on next page...

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The Reporter July 2020

To ensure more accurate readings of brain activity, two noninvasive techniques are implemented simultaneously: electroencephalogram (EEG) and functional Near Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) signals.

EEG detects electrical activity in the brain using small, metal discs called electrodes. Functional Near Infrared Spectroscopy is an optical imaging technique in which an emitter transmits near infrared light and a detector detects the light reflected from the surface of the brain. This technique measures oxygen changes in the concentration of hemoglobin in the brain. The higher the concentration, the more activity is taking place.

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“We will use a hybrid of EEG and fNIRS signals to compensate for each neuroimaging modality shortage and use the complementary features obtained from each modality to improve our system,” said Shahriari.

For patients in the later stages of ALS who experience cognitive dysfunction, such as memory loss and the inability to maintain eye gaze on objects, Functional Near Infrared Spectroscopy has shown to be a more accurate method of measurement.

Shahriari and her students have developed a visuo-mental dual task paradigm which relies on conventional oddball-based protocols, but require the subjects to do some mental arithmetic tasks. This BCI approach is accomplished by displaying a grid of letters and numbers and intermittently flashing an image (matrix of digits) over each row and column.

“By giving the patient higher demanding tasks to focus on, we can trigger several cognitive functions and extract the associated signatures or neural biomarkers,” said doctoral student Bahram Borgheai. “The computer can then decode the pattern of neural activities that appear after the patient performs the tasks. The patterns can be used for diagnostic and communication purposes.”

Shahriari has collaborated with the National Center for Adaptive Neurotechnologies on projects since 2012. With the support of the national center, the Rhode Island Chapter of the ALS Association and Rhode Island Hospital, the professor would like to add more patients to the study.

“Our analysis of the data becomes much more powerful if we can significantly increase the number of patients in the study,” said Shahriari.

Patients will be asked to wear a cap with sensors attached that can record brain activity in the comfort of their homes or at a care center. Recordings of those with healthy brains will take place in Shahriari’s Neural Processing and Control Laboratory in URI’s Fascitelli Center for Advanced Engineering. All data processing and analysis will be conducted in the lab.

Once enough patients have volunteered to participate in the research project, Shahriari plans to partner with more local hospitals and medical schools to take advantage of their clinical expertise.

Sawyer has relished the opportunity to participate in the study.

“Taking part in the brain activity study has been very rewarding,” said Sawyer. “I enjoy learning new things and staying abreast of the latest technology. Dr. Shahriari and her team have been willing to share their progress. They make me feel as if I’m part of their team and not just a test number.”

Sawyer hopes that his participation will help Shahriari develop a way for ALS patients to work and communicate after their motor functions have ceased.

“I don’t consider myself a victim of ALS and I don’t consider myself handicapped,” Sawyer said. “I just need help sometimes. There are people out there far worse off than me. Hopefully the time I give to Dr. Shahriari will someday improve their lives.”

A combination of EEG and fNIRS signals are used to collect more accurate readings.

3 Doug Sawyer’s brain waves appear on a screen as he focuses on a series of letters and numbers. URI photo by Michael Salerno

July 2020 The Reporter

33

Barney Mallon Celebrates 90 years

Barney Mallon, who has lived on Burnside Avenue in Seekonk since 1958 recently celebrated his 90th birthday on June 22nd. He raised 12 children and has countless Grand and great-grandchildren, many of whom still live in Seekonk.

A few of his children decided to decorate his yard for the occasion.

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Taunton Civic Chorus Awards Scholarship to D-R Senior

The Taunton Civic Chorus has awarded its 2020 Bob Keith Memorial Scholarship to Ashley Damon, a graduating senior at Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School.

The $500 scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior from a greater Taunton area high school who has been an active participant in an organized musical activity such as chorus, band, drama club, or dance, and has been accepted into a 2 or 4-year degree program. TCC acknowledged Damon for her participation in D-R’s Select Choir, as well as the Southeastern Massachusetts Music Educators Association (SEMMEA), and the Southeastern Massachusetts School Bandmasters Association (SEMSBA).

Damon, the daughter of Richard and Kathleen Damon of Rehoboth, graduated in the top five percent of her graduating class.

She was also the President of the Dighton-Rehoboth National Honor Society, a three-sport Varsity Captain and athlete. While she will pursue a Nursing major at Saint Anselm College in the Fall, Damon says she will continue singing because, “It is more than just a hobby, but rather a passion that gives me purpose.”

E a c h y e a r, t h e Taunton Civic Chorus presents its scholarship to the recipient at the Spring concert and the recipient performs; however, the concert was cancelled this season because of the Covid-19 Pandemic. It is the first time in TCC history that a season has been cancelled. The Chorus celebrated its 60th birthday Ashley Damon last year.

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The Reporter July 2020

University News

Area Residents Named To Dean’s List at Quinnipiac

Hamden, Connecticut - The following area students were named to the dean’s list for the Spring 2020 semester at Quinnipiac University:

Rehoboth, MA

Arthur Correira; Sarah Guimond

Seekonk, MA

Brenden Cavaco; Nicholas Dimuccio; Angela Farren; Eric Kerr; Madeleine Pagano

Local Students Receive Degrees from Quinnipiac University

Hamden, Conn. - The following students received degrees from Quinnipiac University:

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Becca Marshall of Rehoboth named to Dean’s List at Grove City College

Becca Marshall, a PreK-4 Elementary Education major at Grove City College from Rehoboth, has been named to the Dean’s List for the Spring 2020 semester. Becca is a 2018 graduate of Barrington Christian Academy and is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Marshall (Cheryl) from Rehoboth, MA.

Endicott College Announces Local Dean’s List Students

Beverly, Mass.- Endicott College, the first college in the U.S. to require internships of its students, is pleased to announce its Spring 2020 Dean’s List students.Rehoboth, MA Caterina Duarte, Psychology, Rosa Duarte and Jose Duarte Hevyn Pray, Liberal Studies, Luz Pray and John Pray Seekonk, MA Gabrielle Blum, Interior Design, Kathleen Blum and Ronald Blum Chloe Lunnie, Nursing, Roshele Lunnie and William Lunnie

Fairfield University Congratulates 2020 Undergraduate and Graduate Degree Recipients

Fairfield, CT. (June 10, 2020) - The following Fairfield University student(s) graduated from Fairfield University, May 2020.

Seekonk, MA: Emily M. Ferreira and Dominic J. Mazza

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Local Students Named to the Dean’s List at the University of New Haven

West Haven, Conn. - The following students were named to the Dean’s List at the University of New Haven for the spring, 2020.

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• Evan Lima, Tagliatela Coll of Engineering, Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering

Connecticut College

New London, Conn. - The following Rehoboth students have been named to the dean’s list for the 2020 spring semester: Rehoboth, MA Hannah Nadeau, 2023, Dean’s High Honors, Undeclared Jessica-Lyn Sweet, 2021, Dean’s High Honors, History

Rehoboth Resident Tristin McQuade Rabbitt Earns Degree from Connecticut College

Tristin McQuade Rabbitt of Rehoboth was awarded a Bachelor of Arts degree from Connecticut College on May 29. Rabbitt majored in Economics and Government.

Seekonk Resident Graduates from Saint Anselm College

Alexander Lanzi of Seekonk, MA, was conferred the degree of Bachelor of Science in Nursing

July 2020 The Reporter

35

Club News & ANNOUNCEMENTS Lions Ask That You “Flip The Coin” for Local Businesses

For so many years the Rehoboth Lions and the Rehoboth Anawan Lions have made significant contributions to local charities as well as individuals in our communities, not to mention the donations made to Lions Charities around the world. These contributions come from many events that we held throughout the year such as our clam boils, our golf tournament, and the very popular Cigar Night, tree lighting ceremony, Gattlin Show and chicken BarBQ, as well as many other events. But without the generous donations made by local businesses none of this would happen.

Our country and the world are in a very trying time, and none are more affected than those in need from our charities, AND the local businesses that support our charitable efforts. The Rehoboth Lions and the Rehoboth Anawan Lions want you to “flip the coin” and consciously look to support those businesses that have supported our community for so many years.

Below is a list of the businesses that have supported us and we hope that you will keep them in mind as our community starts to open up. Support them, say thank you when you can and “flip the coin” when you have the opportunity to bring business to them.

“We’re not above you, we’re not beneath you, but WITH YOU”

Cigar Night

Friday Aug 28, 2020 @ 6 PM Rehoboth Lions ~ 95 Cameron Way, Rehoboth Keeping in mind the present conditions, if for any reason we have to cancel, tickets will be refunded or may be held until 2021. $70; Checks to Rehoboth Lions Club Mail to: 98 Danforth St., Rehoboth, MA 02769

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Jay Crandall Henry Pires 508-252-6878 339-237-1947

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Please leave a message for Cigar Night More information will follow in August edition of Rehoboth Reporter.

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Rehoboth Lions Club News

Our Rehoboth Lions Dates Coming up in 2020

June 24 at 7:00 PM We held a Regular Virtual Meeting via ZOOM and Phone!

We had a partial installation of 2020-21 Officers lead by PP, ZC, Mike Salois.

They are: President, Scott Lacourse; 1st VP, Henry Pires; 2nd VP, Joe Nunes; 3rd VP, Mike Barger; Past Pres. Don Nokes; Sec. Bill Cute; Treas. Vin McKenna.

August 28 … We Are Having Our Cigar Night!! Tickets from any Lion … Chairman, Jay Crandall.

August – There Will Be No Rehoboth Lions Golf Tournament this year.

August – Club Budget planning and recommendations will take place for voting in Sept./Oct. Sept., Fall Clam Boils Are Under Discussion!

Sept. – Our Lions Annual (June) “Chet Munroe” Drive Up Chix BBQ = Is Very Likely in Sept. !

We Lions Are always Happy To Have New Members To Help Us Serve Lions Charities, Eye Research and The Rehoboth Community! ,,,,,,,,, Just ask for information from any Lion!

Announcing The 11th Anniversary Of Hattie Ide Chaffee Home's In-House Rehabilitation Department!

Congratulations on another successful year!

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Rehoboth Garden Club 2020 Scholarship

The Rehoboth Garden Club announces it will be awarding a $1500.00 scholarship for the 2020 School year.

This scholarship is awarded to a senior in high school or a current college student pursuing study in floriculture, agriculture or related environmental science. The scholarship recipient must have graduated from a local high school.

For an application please call or contact 508 252-4224.

All applications must be postmarked by August 15th, 2020. It will be awarded in September.

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The Reporter July 2020

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come by and see our award winning new dealerWith the 1st Anniversary of our new customer satisfaction in sales and Toyotalocation is the in only dealer inintersection New England toand earn Swansea at the service one of only 6 in the Country “Come and of Route 6 and 136...The Bristol Toyota to earn the award 29 years running...So ts award in customer satisfaction in ifsales and team is not only celebrating their new your looking for a new car or truck we experience of the art the dealership but also 500 and to choose and over 200 one ofstate only 6 in Country to earn have the over award celebrating all the new customers in used of all makes and models and if we ning ....So if your looking formarked a new car orhave truck sales and service.

This January don’t whatour your looking for Fair, we will Fast, Veader’s 30th anniversary of his used being our specialty for over r 500 toEdchoose and over 200 used offind allitmakes family owned Bristol Toyota and 50 50 years and if you need service come Friendly and if we don’t what your lookingsee forwhat wegood will oldand years in thehave auto sales business fashion service is starting with Seekonk Sales over 50 years of practice...no being our specialty forAuto over 50‘Body years really andlike if you deals.”

Ed’s grandson David Anderson Jr. “DJ“ appointments necessary for Express come issee good oldtofashion really the what fourth generation join the service lube is free pick up and delivery or 30 family owned business as Sales cars when needed reward points -DJ Anderson, years of practice....no appointments loaner necessary Manager Ed’s family and employees with any service or part purchases... ube free pick upcome and cars invite you to by delivery and see ouror 30 loaner remember we didn’t become one of Salesmanager award winning new dealership. Bristol New England’s best dealers by saying d reward points with any service or part purchases Toyota is the only dealer in New no bring us your best deal.

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July 2020 The Reporter

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The Reporter July 2020

American Legion Post 302 in Rehoboth Patio Doors Now Open

American Legion Post 302 in Rehoboth will be opening our patio doors June 8th for food with a drink starting at 3:00 PM. Our main doors and the building will remain closed to the Veterans, Guest and Patrons with the exception of the use of our clean restrooms.

Charitable Golf Tournament Canceled

Dear Community Partner, The East Providence/ Seekonk Rotary Club and the Seekonk Lions Club have made the decision to cancel our Charitable Golf Tournament scheduled for Monday, July 27, 2020 at Wannamoisett American Legion Post 302 Patio is Open!

Country Club.

After consulting with members in the Rotary Club the East Providence-Seekonk and the Seekonk Lions Club members in Over 20 Years Experience in the Local Community an abundance of caution of concern for the health and safety of our Golfers and Volunteers of the Tournament due to COVID-19 EST. 1994 we felt this is the best way to proceed during such an unprecedented global situation. We are truly disappointed that we are unable to hold this year’s event to benefit the recipients of our charitable fundraising, and also our Golfers, Major Sponsors, and Tee-Sign Sponsors. However, we are confident it is the right decision based on the information we have today.

We have rescheduled the golf tournament for next year, so mark your calendar for Monday, July 26, 2021.

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A virtual Senior Class night was held on June 17th. Kiwanis of Greater Seekonk awarded two Morris Goldberg Scholarships, named for our founder, for $1000 each to two very impressive 100 hour Key Club members.

The recipients were Giana D’Ambra and Madison Khan. Giana will be attending Rhode Island College to study Nursing and Madison will be attending Tulane University in New Orleans, LA and studying to be a College Professor.

We are very pleased and proud that Giana and Madison are very interested in community service and how much it means to them. Congratulations and best wishes for a successful and happy future.

July 2020 The Reporter

39

Rehoboth Ramblings

by Leslie Patterson

Heading for the Hills

I keep reading about people in big cities leaving for the countryside over these past few months. New Yorkers who fled in droves this spring for the Berkshires and the Catskills have taken the phrase “head for the hills” literally. Can’t blame them, as long as they weren’t bringing the virus with them. This behavior is neither new nor surprising. People (that is, well-off people) have fled cities during epidemics and plagues, going back at least as far as ancient Rome. People might not have known about germs but they sure understood that densely populated cities helped spread disease.

Some contemporary city residents went to second homes, but a surprising number are looking to move away permanently from the city, or at least as far as the suburbs. When we moved here in the summer of 1978, I never really thought, “This would be a better place to live during a pandemic.” We were just looking for a singlefamily home not too far from Providence, and the scenic countryside of Rehoboth seemed like a pleasant choice. Also, commuting west in the morning and east in the evening meant not having to drive with the sun in your eyes at various times of the year, a small but significant point.

While many find living in the city exciting, I dislike big cities because all the noise and congestion make me feel overwhelmed, even though I enjoy their attractions (which is to say, it’s a nice place to visit but I wouldn’t want to live there). A quiet neighborhood is of great importance to me. At the time of our move from Providence, the woman in the apartment below us was fond of throwing loud parties, so we were glad to get away from that. Rehoboth has mostly, though not always, filled the bill for peace and tranquility for all these years. I love all the summer greenery too, though I realize that a lot of that is just invasive weeds. It beats the bleak, bare winter months.

Still, I find these strange times we are living in to be full of irony.

Wasn’t it just a short while ago we were hearing about all these retired people who wanted to sell the family home in the suburbs and move to the city for all it had to offer? Well, so much for that.

As many have noted, right now what used to make cities exciting is not available, or not available as it was before, to its residents – restaurants, theaters, sports and concert venues, museums and so forth. And now that the very idea of taking public transportation is nerve-wracking, more people are driving to work again. Where this will all go in the long run is anyone’s guess.

The most ironic thing about the pandemic is how everything that was considered good for us is now problematic: getting together with people, traveling far and wide, going to those restaurants, theaters, museums, and games. Most of all, everyone agreed that it was bad for people, especially older people, to be alone and yet, here we are. Speaking of opposites, testing positive is a phrase with definite negative connotations now. One thing about our current situation is that it’s made us realize just how much of our lives revolves around in-person human contact. We’ve had lots of time to dwell on this thought too.

Apparently bird-watching has become very popular recently. I’m listening to a wren outside the window at the moment. These little birds seem to keep up the chatter from dawn to dusk; you’d think they’d be exhausted by evening. I am more of a bird appreciator than watcher. I’m not very good at identifying them, though I can pick out the obvious birds – robins, cardinals, blue jays, red-winged blackbirds, along with that family of crows. What we call birdsong is often one bird telling a rival “get off my branch!” But it all sounds cheerful to human listeners. I’d rather listen to birds squabble than humans argue.

A great white egret was a rare visitor to the pond earlier in June.

Though I usually associate these beautiful birds with Florida, they have a wide range. Not sure if it was chased off by the great blue

heron, a more frequent visitor. Tiny hummingbirds visit the bird feeder from May to around Labor Day. I always hate to see them go. From the heron to the little hummers, all feathered creatures great and small enliven the summer scene and brighten these troubled times.

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The Reporter July 2020

Seekonk Public Library www.seekonkpl.org • library@seekonkpl.org

Winslow Osborne Sherer Meets 1,000 Books Challenge

Winslow Osborne Sherer, 2 1/2 years old, has met the Seekonk Public Library challenge of reading over 1,000 books before kindergarten. Thank you Sharon Clark (Kids Librarian) for all the encouragement and support.

Programs for Children and Families Nature Explorers! Starts July 7

Children and families are invited to get outdoors, connect with nature, and become inspired caretakers of the environment by registering for Nature Explorers! This program encourages families to discover nature together with outdoor activities that everyone can take part in. Each child receives a nature kit that includes an official Explorer’s Notebook and pencil, suggested activity sheets and tips for parents on how to incorporate nature and learning into even the busiest of days.

In the Explorers’ Notebook children can record interesting things they see when exploring. The notebook has space for describing in writing, or through drawings, what children have discovered outdoors. The kit also includes descriptions of 10 hands-on activities that can jump-start outdoor explorations. Activities include “Animals Among Us”, “More Trees Please”, “Fly It & Spy It”, “Seed Blaster” and “Rain Detective”. Participants may do as few or as many activities as they wish. Supporting materials, online videos and games are provided by pbsKids and the television show Plum Landing. To reserve your child’s Explorer’s Notebook visit seekonkpl.org’s calendar and select July 7.

This program is a collaboration between Seekonk Library and Plum Landing, a PBS KIDS environmental-science project for children ages 6 to 9 and their families. The project is helping the next generation take on a lifelong commitment to staying physically active Winslow Osborne while learning more about the animal, plants, water and weather in Seekonk. To learn more about the wonderful outdoor spaces in Seekonk visit Seekonk Meadows, Martin Wildlife Refuge, Caratunk Wildlife Refuge, Gammino Pond Conservation Area and the easiest place of all, your own backyard. “We’re very excited to see Seekonk Library connect with local kids and families to get them active outdoors while sparking Time to trim your shrubs & hedges! their curiosity about planet Earth and inspiring them to take care of it,” says Marisa Wolsky, Executive Producer of Plum Landing

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Ed the Wizard’s Alchemy and Magic Laboratory!

Premieres Wednesday, July 8 10 AM

Enter the Alchemy Laboratory of Ed the Wizard and watch Ed amaze with magic tricks. Then learn the science and secrets behind the tricks and learn how to perform them to amaze your family and friends! Watch Wizard Ed perform vanishes, transfigurations, and other feats of magic with everyday items found at home. Using three of the four Classical Greek Elements, Earth, Wind, Water, (sorry, no Fire), learn how to change the properties of water, look through solid objects, and defy gravity. Watch and learn and then you’ll be performing magic in just a few minutes! No registration necessary. Simply access the program’s link at Seekonkpl.org Calendar of Events starting July 8

Virtual Meet-Up with Miss Sharon & Miss Sandie Tuesday, July 14 6:30 – 7:30 PM

Questions about the summer reading challenge? Need reading suggestions for your child? Wondering what programs are coming up for kids or when the flamingos are landing? No matter what your question is, Miss Sharon and Miss Sandie have the answers (and if they don’t they’ll find the answers!) Register to receive the Zoom invite then drop in anytime between 6:30 and 7:30 for Q’s and A’s.

It will be great to see you and yes, bring the kids- we’d love to see them, too and talk about all things summer! Register at seekonkpl. org, calendar of events, July 14

July 2020 The Reporter

Hey kids! Explore and learn all about fascinating frogs and terrific toads including the adaptations of these amazing animals and their importance to the Seekonk community. This program will be offered as a one time-online program and then a pre-recorded session will be available for even more learning. Participants will also receive instructions for a fun activity they can do at home that will help our amphibian friends.

During the live session participants will get the chance to meet some real-life, local amphibians from the Oak Knoll collection and learn about some of the species which call Seekonk home.

The pre-recorded session will explore what defines an amphibian, what makes them so special, and what we can do within the Seekonk community to care for these vital species. This program is presented by the Massachusetts Audubon’s Oak Knoll Wildlife Sanctuary and is sponsored by the Seekonk Cultural Council.

To receive the Zoom invite for the Live Session registration is required at seekonkpl.org’s calendar of events. The prerecorded session does not require registration and the link will be available through the program’s registration page. Best suited to children 6+

Personal Book Shoppers

You’ve heard of personal shoppers for clothes, gifts and even groceries but a personal shopper for children’s books? Absolutely!

Call the library and we’ll ask you a few questions such as the age of your child and the types of children’s books you’re looking for (beginner readers, children’s fiction or nonfiction) and we’ll put a stack of books together for you. When the books are ready, we’ll call you back to schedule curbside pickup. Want to select your own books? Simply visit seekonkpl.org and search our catalog to place holds online (and for eBooks remember to search Libby and Hoopla through our website or app.) Whether you want us to pick books for your child or if you want to search and put books on hold yourself, call the library at (508) 336-8230 or visit us online at seekonkpl.org to discover your next stack of great children’s books!

Storytime on the Go!

Create a storytime experience at home with ‘Storytime on the Go’ packets for families. Each Storytime on the Go packet includes 6 books: two themed storybooks, a goodnight story, a new book, a nonfiction book and a “librarian favorite” title. An activity sheet or craft is also included. To receive a ‘Storytime On the Go’ packet of age-appropriate stories for your child, call the library and tell us if you’d like a packet for your infant, toddler or preschooler. Infant packets will have board books, toddler will have shorter stories and preschool packets will include books that are a bit longer for older children. New packets will be available weekly so be sure to call and reserve a ‘Storytime On the Go’ every week! Call (508) 336-8230 x56140 or email childrens@seekonkpl.org to arrange a time for curbside pick up.

Summer Reading Challenge with Seekonk Library Imagine Your Story ongoing through - August 8

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It’s summer and Seekonk Library’s Summer Reading Challenge continues! Sign your child up for the program then keep track of how much time is spent reading. There are no titles to record, or specific books to read. Simply log how much time is spent reading. Kids can read any combination of books, magazines, graphic novels, Sunday comics, eBooks, audio books or even the back of the cereal box! As we always say, read anything and everything because it all counts toward the challenge.

What’s the challenge? The personal challenge is to read 15 – 20 minutes a day. Children register for the program then log their reading time online to earn virtual badges, take part in interesting

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The Reporter July 2020

activities and earn raffle tickets for a chance to win one of 28 raffle prizes. Kids are also encouraged to read to help reach the community challenge of 200,000 minutes before August 8. Want to simplify? Just log the time spent reading. Either way is fine with us!

Why log reading time? The process of logging time encourages children to actively work toward the goal of 15 – 20 minutes per day.

Children who log their time are more engaged in the program and can be more self-motivated to read. Children can log their reading time as often as they wish but they are not required to log their time every day. However, there are added incentives for 3 day, 7day and 30 day logging streaks.

Why Summer Reading? Summer reading loss often happens when children are not actively reading during the summer months.

Studies have shown that children who don’t read over the summer can lose 1-3 months of reading proficiency. Also, 9 in 10 teachers spend at least 3 weeks reteaching skills at the beginning of the school year due to summer reading loss. Know that summer reading

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programs are endorsed by endorsed by principals, teachers, and educators to help combat summer learning loss.

What Parents Can Do Parents can to help maintain reading proficiency over the summer by signing their children up for the program, encouraging them to read, and by having their children log their reading time regularly. Parents sign children up and the library will engage and motivate them! Remember that the goal of 15 – 20 minutes per day increases fluency and expands children’s vocabulary, comprehension and knowledge.

What Seekonk Library will do The library will engage kids with great incentives including virtual badges, interesting activities, raffle prizes and even lawn flamingos to keep interest high in reading and to engage children all summer long. Working together we can help combat summer learning loss all while having a great time.

It’s free to participate and registering for the program is easy.

Sign up with your SAILS Library card at seekonkpl.org/kids. Don’t have a SAILS card? Contact us at childrens@seekonkpl.org Sign up, read, log time. Combat summer learning loss with Seekonk Library’s summer reading program for children!

Imagine Your Story is sponsored by Seekonk Public Library, CSLP, the Massachusetts Library System, the Boston Bruins, and the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners.

Get Flamingoed!

How? It’s simple! Sign your child up for the “Imagine Your Story” summer reading program. After logging 7 hours of time spent reading, your child will earn their very own lawn flamingo. Then the fun really begins! Each child will be asked to decorate their flamingo using their imagination and supplies around the house. Will they imagine their Flamingo as a different animal like a cat or a tiger?

Or will they turn their flamingo into a unicorn or maybe a superhero with a cape? The sky’s the limit because they can decorate to their heart’s content. Once decorated, kids will place their flamingo on their front lawn for everyone to see. The flamingos begin landing on July 15 so get reading and let’s fill the town with flamingos!

If your child reads just 15-20 minutes a day, they’ll earn their flamingo in 4 weeks! Reading more? They’ll earn their flamingo sooner. Questions? childrens@seekonkpl.org Seekonk Library has resources that support summer leisure reading. Need assistance? Email the Youth Services Librarians at childrens@seekonkpl.org or call (508) 336-8230 x56140

Books All Summer Long

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Whether you’re looking for picture books, beginner readers, chapter books, or nonfiction books for your child, we have thousands of eBook titles to choose from. Available in eBook, audiobook and video formats. Browse our online collections at seekonkpl.org and scroll to the bottom of the home page for the links to OverDrive, Hoopla and Tumblebooks. You will need your SAILS library card to check books out. Don’t have a card? Email us at childrens@ seekonkpl.org OverDrive: Your child’s source for e-Books and audio books for every device. Discover picture books, chapter books, graphic novels and more. Explore Libby, the ‘user-friendly’ OverDrive app.seekonkpl.org. No monthly limit on checkouts.

Hoopla: Instantly borrow eBooks, audiobooks, comics, movies, music and more for your child, 24/7 with your library card. Monthly limit on checkouts.

TumbleBooks: Encourage reading with interactive, books and activities. Something for every age child! Featuring picture books, chapter books, graphic novels, National Geographic videos, games, puzzles & more. No app needed, nothing to download, no borrowing, just click and read. Visit seekonkpl.org and scroll to bottom of homepage for link To search our main catalog of titles (non ebooks) visit our catalog at seekonkpl.org

July 2020 The Reporter Visit seekonkpl.org or call (508) 336-8230 for details about placing any type of materials on hold, about curbside pick up and for updated Seekonk Library news. Follow us on FaceBook and Instagram.

Teen Summer Programs Continue

Seekonk, MA – Teens in 6th-12th grade can still register for the 2020 Summer Teen Challenge and the accompanying weekly virtual programs. Available online or on a smart device, the Challenge encourages middle and high school students to track their reading, complete activities and earn badges and raffle tickets for one of 4 $25.00 Amazon gift cards.

The Challenge runs through August 8. The library’s teen page (seekonkpl.org/teens) has all the information needed to sign up.

All local teens are welcome to attend our virtual programs on Thursday afternoons at 3 pm. 2 raffle tickets are awarded for each program they attend. The following programs are scheduled: 7/2 Patriotic Pinwheels

7/9 Anti-Stress Afternoon 7/16 7/23 Board Games 7/30 Upcycling 8/6 Virtual Breakout

Some programs require common household supplies. Some supplies will be available at the library for curbside pick up. Please visit our event calendar to register. For information: www.seekonkpl.org/teens or Contact: teens@seekonkpl.org

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Job Hunting Support from the Library: An Introduction to Lynda.com

Seekonk, MA – The COVID-19 health emergency has resulted in record levels of unemployment and job seekers. Did you know that your Seekonk library card gives you access to 24 hour career training for free with Lynda.com?

The Seekonk Public Library is presenting a virtual introduction to this valuable resource, No one offers a better deal!

Using Lynda.com for Job Hunting, through Zoom on Wednesday, July 8 at 6 PM. In this virtual introduction, librarian Michelle Gario will provide an overview www.ReporterToday.com of how to get started with Lynda and share tips on getting tutorials specifically for searching for work and career training.

Register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org to receive the login information. If you’re not familiar with Zoom, contact the library at library@seekonkpl.org for assistance.

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Virtual Kanopy Film Discussion

Seekonk, MA – Have you heard about the library’s new streaming movie service, Kanopy? Explore the 30,000+ films and documentaries on this amazing platform, and join us virtually on Wednesday, July 15th at 6:00 PM for a discussion of the film Leave No Trace. Register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org to receive an invitation to the Zoom call approximately one hour before the start time.

In Leave No Trace, Will (Ben Foster) and his teenage daughter, Tom (Thomasin Harcourt McKenzie), have lived off the grid for years in the forests of Portland, Oregon. When their idyllic life is shattered, both are put into social services.

After clashing with their new surroundings, Will and Tom set off on a harrowing journey back to their wild homeland.

Getting started with Kanopy is simple. Start at seekonkpl.kanopy. com, and enter your library card number and pin to set up an account. Kanopy can be viewed with most TV apps and mobile devices.

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The Reporter July 2020

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Bill Harley Goes Virtual at Seekonk Library

Perennial favorite Bill Harley is performing “Everyone Has A Story!” a series of virtual events in July, 2020. The Grammy winning singer-songwriter is entering the virtual realm as we continue to socially distance ourselves.

The programs are as follows: July 13, 2020: The Ballad of Dirty Joe - In this recorded program Bill performs his epic poem, talks about how it became a picture book and shares excerpts from the finished project. This is also a 2-week video link.

July 20, 2020 at 7 PM: Q and A with Bill: a livestream event where YOU can ask Bill your burning questions! Slots are limited so patrons should visit our event calendar to register.

Registered patrons will receive an invitation to a video conference before the event.

Bill Harley is well-traveled, well-read, well-educated, well-spoken and well-loved. Accompanied by his guitar, his narrative songs and stories, both original and traditional, are a celebration of our common humanity. Best known for his work with children and families, his ability to navigate through a confusing world with humor and wisdom is evident in his masterful storytelling as well as his numerous award-winning recordings and books. A two-time Grammy winner, he is vibrant, outrageous, unpredictable and genuine with songs and stories about growing up, schooling and what it is to be human—our connections with one another and with the planet we share. Recognized by audiences and peers as one of the finest performing storytellers in the country, his work has influenced a generation of children, parents, performing artists and educators. Bill tours internationally as a performing artist, author and keynote speaker from his home in Seekonk, Massachusetts.

For more information and to register for the Q and A, please visit our event calendar.

For information: www.seekonkpl.org or Contact: library@seekonkpl.org

We hope you enjoy receiving The Reporter every month!

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Online Book Discussion: The Hidden Life of Trees

Has our stay at home status given you a greater appreciation of nature in our backyards? Join us for a lively discussion of The Hidden Life of Trees: What They Feel, How They Communicate – Discoveries from a Secret World by Peter Wohlleben through Zoom on Tuesday, July 28, 2020 at 6:00 pm. Register in the Events Calendar at www. seekonkpl.org to receive an invitation to the Zoom call approximately one hour before the start time. The title is available digitally through Hoopla and Overdrive, or you may request to pick up a print copy.

Are trees social beings? In The Hidden Life of Trees forester and author Peter Wohlleben convincingly makes the case that, yes, the forest is a social network. He draws on groundbreaking scientific discoveries to describe how trees are like human families: tree parents live together with their children, communicate with them, support them as they grow, share nutrients with those who are sick or struggling, and even warn each other of impending dangers.

This program is free and open to all.

For information: www.seekonkpl.org or Contact: library@ seekonkpl.org

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Friends of the Seekonk Public Library News

The Friends of the Seekonk Public Library have been chosen to receive $1.00 for every reusable community bag purchased at Stop & Shop (1475 Newman Avenue, Seekonk) during the month of August!!!

Support the Friends of the Seekonk Public Library!!

The Friends of the Seekonk Public Library is a 501c3 Non-Profit that raises funds to provide materials & programs not included in the Town budget for patrons of the Seekonk Library.

July 2020 The Reporter

News and Notes from Blanding Library

By Leslie Patterson

Curbside Pickup Continues

The Blanding Library is still closed to the public, but curbside pickup of reserved materials continues, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday. You can request books and other items from the Rehoboth library only, by either calling the library or requesting items through the SAILS online catalog (www.sailsinc.org). You can look up the item you want and see if it is on the shelf at the Blanding.

You can also see what’s new on the Blanding shelves through the SAILS website too. Although it is possible to place hold requests for items from other libraries, those books will not arrive until our delivery service resumes operation, on a date to be determined later.

The library will notify you when the Blanding items are ready for pickup and then you will need to call (508-252-4236) when you arrive at the library. Library staff will either leave the books outside by the door, or place items in your car trunk, depending on the weather. When returning library items to the Blanding, please place items in the outside book drop by the front door.

Due dates for materials have been automatically extended. Any overdue fines accrued during this time of closure will be waived.

Expiration dates on library cards will be extended. While the physical library is still closed to the public, the library’s online services are available anytime from www.sailsinc.org, as well as the Overdrive and Libby eBook apps. So now is a good time to download e-books; you can find out more on the SAILS site.

Online Summer Activities for Kids

The staff at the Blanding invite you to “Join us this summer as we explore virtual stories, a middle grade book club, a wizard’s Tribute to Harry Potter, Newton Puppets, story walks and more! Check out the event calendar on www.blandinglibrary.net and Facebook as the library announces these programs.

Our librarians are eager to help with your summer reading. Give us a call – just because we can’t be together in person doesn’t mean we can’t still have fun!”

No registration is necessary. Summer programs are made possible in part by the Friends of the Blanding Library. “Imagine Your Story” is the theme of the statewide summer reading program supported by the Blanding Library, the MA Library System, the MA Board of Library Commissioners and the Boston Bruins, with funding from the Institute of Museums & Library Services.

The Blanding’s online Middle Grade Book Club began in late June for kids entering third to seventh grade. Support with obtaining middle school summer reading materials will also be provided. To find out more, call the Blanding at 508-252-4236 or email mmaynard@sailsinc.org.

Riding Lessons for all ages

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Visit Our Local Farms

Souza Family Farm

The Souza Family Farm stand is open Father’s day through Halloween and will have more and more vegetables as the season changes. Our large variety of vegetables in-season includes: 40 varieties of tomatoes, zucchini, summer squash, winter squash, peppers, onions, cucumbers, pickling cukes, cauliflower, broccoli, large variety of beans, blueberries, corn, lettuces and more!

The Greenhouse is open now with a wide arrangement of flowering plants, vegetable plants, hangers and herbs. Come by and see what is ready and what is growing!

We do supplement our produce from local sources. If we don’t grow it, you’ll know it! We accept Farmer’s Market coupons at the Farm Stand as well as SNAP/HIP.

Farm Stand Now Open!

SNAP/HIP and WIC and Senior coupons accepted If we didn’t grow it, you will know it!

Check our FB page for hours & updates!

www.souzafamilyfarm.com 508-245-4635 • 33 Agricultural Ave., Rehoboth, MA

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The Reporter July 2020

Osamequin Farm

Time for Farm Fresh Goodness

Come visit us at Osamequin Farm, at the corner of Walnut St and Prospect St in Seekonk! We are a non-profit cooperative farm, hosting five farmers all under “one roof”, plus Pick Your Own blueberries and sunflowers, and specialty cut flowers! We open up the farm for community gatherings, educational workshops, and private events. Visit our website for all the options and to get on our email list! Sustainability is of the utmost importance to our mission - EVERYTHING we offer is chemical free, grown with organic practices. We only sell what we grow - you can expect to find berries, vegetables, culinary and medicinal herbs, and all the flowers in our Farm Stand this summer. Our blueberries are never sprayed, so they’re safe for the kids to pick and put right into their mouths in the field! Follow us on social media @osamequinfarm to be sure you hear about all our events, workshops, and when the berries are ready to pick! Online shopping is open now for spring flowers and early products. Home delivery or no-contact pickup.

OPEN DAILY

for all your grocery and garden needs 1050 Williams St • N. Dighton, MA • 774-872-0278 • Fresh Fruits & Vegetables • Local Meats, Honey, Eggs & Milk • Boar's Head Deli Sandwiches and Salads Farm and Greenhouse Hours: Weekdays 5am-5pm • Weekends 6am-5pm

https://www.facebook.com/ UnderTheSunFarmstand/ WE ACCEPT SNAP & HIP

Under the Sun Farm

Under the Sun Farm is open seven days a week for your local grocery and gardening needs. This season we we have taken extra effort to maintain a clean and safe shopping experience. Hand washing is available for customers in the greenhouse and hand sanitizer is available at the registers. You will find our employees wearing masks and gloves to maintain a safe working and shopping environment. We thank you for following marked distancing guidelines while shopping. A little about us... Rehoboth native, Milton Teixeira, proudly runs our diversified, year-round, family farm. We’re growing a wide variety of produce using organic practices to provide healthy, fresh and flavorful food for our community! Under the Sun farm’s greenhouse is full of beautiful proven winner annual flowers, bountiful perennials, and a wide variety of vegetable plants and herbs. Shop at our farm stand too which offers to breakfast muffins, coffee, lunch sandwiches and salads, and all the fixings for dinner including fresh salad greens, a delicious variety of produce, eggs, and local non-GMO meats. Fill your pantry with locally-sourced grocery, bread, milk, cheeses and more!

Under the Sun Farm is open MondayFriday 5am-5pm and Saturday-Sunday 6am-5pm. We’re located at 1050 Williams Street, North Dighton. See you on the farm!

July 2020

The Reporter

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scouting Around Seekonk/East Providence Scout News Troop 1 Holds Virtual Meetings During Quarantine

By Will, Troop 1 Scribe One of the major impacts of the recent Coronavirus pandemic was the cancellation of many activities that made up many people’s day. This heavily impacted the Boy Scouts of America in every state including our local Troop 1. A big portion of all activities conducted by the troop was done in large gatherings and in the current situation that was not going to be allowed and all upcoming scouting events were cancelled. One thing however did remain constant and that was the weekly meetings on Tuesday, albeit now virtual and on Zoom.

Along with this we had another scout by the name of Mathew make a Google Classroom and a Flipgrid so scouts could send videos of themselves doing activities such as one match fires. Although it has been challenging to figure this out with everything going on we have begun to get back into the swing of things with upcoming merit badges opportunities over the summer so we can finally start to get back to what we were doing before.

Troop 1 & Troop 9 Honor Military

On Memorial Day, Seekonk Scouts BSA Troop 1 and Troop 9 honored those who served in the US military by replacing worn flags at the Seekonk Cemetery. We will store the worn flags until we’re able to properly retire them at a later date. This year looked different than years past as Scouts were required to wear masks and spread out to meet social distancing guidelines. A special thank you to our community members Amy Davenport who donated scout-themed fabric and Diane Johnson who sewed masks for all of our scouts!

If you have any worn flags that need to be retired you can drop them off for us in the marked box outside of the American Legion Post 311 on Fall River Ave.

Pack 88 Cub Scouts Join Troop 1

Each spring Cub Scouts end their scouting season with a celebration and the oldest scouts (5th graders) get to cross-over into a troop and join Scouts BSA. Although this year looked different than originally planned, we weren’t going to let COVID take this rite of passage from our scouts. We had to be a little creative with this year’s Cross-over Ceremony which included one scout at a time being filmed crossing our mini bridge. The video clips were then edited together and shown at a virtual ceremony which all of the scout families could watch. The virtual ceremony also included pre-recorded messages from Troop 1 scouts and leaders, BSA’s Narragansett Council staff and the Cub Scout’s own siblings all wishing the scouts well in their new troop.

Troop 1 Seekonk wants to congratulate Finnegan, MJ, Mason, Paul and Oliver for receiving the highest award in Cub Scouts, the Arrow of Light. The Arrow of Light is the only Cub Scout patch that may be worn on the Scouts BSA uniform. All of the boys crossed over from Cub Scout Pack 88 Rumford/Seekonk.

To find out more about Scouting in Seekonk: Visit our website at www.Troop1Seekonk.org to see our calendar of events and photos from past activities.

Email us for more info: Scouts BSA Troop 1 Seekonk (for Boys ages 11-17): Troop1SeekonkMA@gmail.com Scouts BSA Troop 9 Seekonk (for Girls ages 11-17): Troop9SeekonkMA@gmail.com Cub Scout Pack 88 Rumford/Seekonk (for Boys & Girls, Grades K-5): Pack88.Cubs@gmail.com

Above: Troop 1 & Troop 9 Honoring the Military

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Crossing the bridge.

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The Reporter July 2020

From the State House Largest selection of shade and flowering trees, shrubs, and evergreens in the area!

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Representative Steven Howitt: State Delivering More Tax Relief for Local Restaurants Boston – State Representative Steven Howitt (R-Seekonk) is pleased to announce the state is offering additional tax relief measures to restaurants that have been struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic.

On June 18, the Baker-Polito Administration announced it is extending the collection date for meals tax payments until September. The extension applies to payments that otherwise would have been due between March and August of this year.

Steven Howitt The tax delay allows businesses to defer payment on their meals taxes until September 20, without being charged any penalties or interest. Previously, the state had extended the tax deadline to June 20. Businesses that paid less than $150,000 in meals taxes for the year ending February 29, 2020 qualify for the tax extension.

“This is great news for many small businesses that were already operating on a slim profit margin before the pandemic hit and have been struggling to stay afloat under the operating restrictions the state has imposed on them over the last several months,” said Representative Howitt. “The legislative and executive branches have taken a number of steps to help restaurants, but it is critically important that we continue these efforts to support local businesses during these uncertain times.”

Between March 17 and June 7, restaurants were limited to takeout and delivery orders only, as all indoor dining was prohibited.

Chapter 53 of the Acts of 2020, which was passed by the Legislature on April 2 and signed into law on April 3, allowed restaurants holding liquor licenses to begin offering beer and wine in conjunction with food takeout orders to help increase sales.

Beginning on June 8, restaurants were allowed to offer outdoor table service under Phase 2 of the state’s re-opening plan. Indoor dining service resumed on June 22, with a number of restrictions in place to ensure the health and safety of customers and workers.

Representative Howitt noted that the House of Representatives approved a restaurant relief package on June 3 that includes a meals tax component similar to the plan announced by Governor Baker on June 18. The House proposal would allow restaurants to delay their meals tax payments for the remainder of the year, without being assessed any late-file or late-payment penalties or interest, and would move payment of some meals tax collections into 2021.

House Bill 4774, An Act addressing challenges faced by food and beverage establishments resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, sets a deadline of September 20 for businesses to submit meals taxes collected from June 1-August 31, and a January 20, 2021 deadline for submitting meals taxes collected from September 1-December 31. The bill still requires Senate approval.

Representative Howitt said House Bill 4774 will give restaurants additional flexibility to attract customers and increase sales. In addition to allowing restaurants holding liquor licenses to begin offering mixed drinks with food takeout orders, the bill provides price-gouging protections to restaurants by capping the fees they can be charged by third-party delivery service companies for online food orders.

July 2020

Representative Howitt Says House, Senate Working to Finalize Expanded Early and Absentee Voting Options to Ensure Safe Elections

Boston – State Representative Steven Howitt (R-Seekonk) said the House and Senate are working to finalize legislation that will provide for expanded voting options for all 2020 state and municipal elections to help ensure the safety of voters and poll workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A six-member Conference Committee was appointed on June 18 to begin negotiations on reconciling the differences between the House and Senate versions of the bill, both of which would greatly expand early and absentee voting while giving voters the option of casting ballots in-person or by mail.

“Voting is a fundamental right for every citizen 18 and older,” said Representative Howitt. “Given the continued health risks associated with the novel coronavirus, it is imperative that we give all voters multiple options so they can exercise their right to vote in a way that does not jeopardize their personal safety and well-being.”

One of the major differences between House Bill 4778 and Senate Bill 2764 is the process by which the Secretary of State will mail out applications for registered voters to request a vote-by-mail ballot. Under the House version of the bill, applications would be mailed by July 15 for a September 1 primary election ballot and by September 14 for a November 3 general election ballot. The Senate proposal calls for applications for both the primary and general elections to be mailed by July 15 for individuals who have registered to vote prior to July 1, and requires the Secretary of State to mail a voter information booklet, along with at least two applications for the November 3 general election, by October 5.

Another point of contention between the two branches revolves around the deadline for submitting applications for vote-by-mail ballots. The House sets the deadline at seven days prior to the primary and general elections, while the Senate sets it at just four days before the election, Howitt noted.

The House and Senate are both calling for the Secretary of State to establish an online portal for voters to request an early or absentee ballot, but disagree on how the portal would be set up.

House Bill 4778 requires the Secretary of State to work with the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) to develop an online portal, and to report back to the Legislature on the progress that has been made by August 15. Senate Bill 2764 requires the Secretary of State to develop the online portal independently by October 1 for the general election, and to attempt to have an online portal in place even earlier for the September 1 primary, if feasible.

Both bills would allow cities and towns to change a polling location for reasons of public health or public convenience, but the House requires the vote to change the location to take place at least 15 days prior to the election, while the Senate requires the vote to take place at least 20 days prior to the election.

Howitt noted the Senate bill also contains certain provisions that were not included in the House bill, including the implementation of an audit of the general election ballots. In addition, the Senate bill also includes language requiring the Secretary of State to:

49

• conduct a public awareness campaign of the expanded options available to voters for the primary and general elections; • report back to the Legislature by July 1, 2021 on the costs associated with implementing the expanded voting options; and • report back to the Legislature within six months of the enactment of the bill on the steps being taken to make voting more accessible to individuals with disabilities.

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House Bill 4774 also authorizes local licensing authorities to temporarily approve requests for outdoor table service at restaurants, with alcohol sales, through November 30. Representative Howitt said this change will allow cities and towns to bypass the current licensing review process conducted by the Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission, which typically takes 7-10 weeks to complete.

The House proposal also allows licensed establishments to continue to sell beer and wine for off-premises consumption for the duration of the Governor’s State of Emergency, or until February 28, 2021, whichever is later.

The Reporter

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The Reporter July 2020

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Residential / Commercial

Rehoboth Council on Aging A Municipal Department of the Town

55 Bay State Road, Rehoboth, MA 02769 Phone 508-252-3372 Fax 508-252-4716

Monday through Thursday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Fridays 8:00 a.m. to 12 noon Kitchen hours: Monday – Thursdays 8:00AM to 12 noon

The COA remains close until further notice to the public.

Exceptions by appointment only.

For pressing issues please call the Senior Center at 508-252-3372.

• Meals on Wheels is still being delivered by our volunteers.

• We are continuing to make masks for Seniors. We are in need of cotton fabric and ¼ inch elastics. If you can donate, please call and we will set up a safe and secure drop off

Tuesday Grab and Go Lunch

Please call on Monday to reserve a timeslot. Pick up begins at 11:30. Number of meals are limited.

Gert’s Café

Lunch is served at Gert’s Cafe` Mondays at 12 Noon. $3.00 Donation

Tuesday Lunch

Tuesdays from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM

The COA Breakfast

Wednesdays from 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM

Tasty Thursdays Lunch

Held on the last Thursday of the Month at 12 noon. Cost $3.00 donation.

Men’s Morning Coffee

Fridays at 9:00 AM

Card Games

Art Supplies • Custom Framing Fine Cabinet Lumber • Furniture Restoration Decoy & Woodcarving

Hours M•T•T•F 9-5 Wed til 8 Sat 9-1

Mondays at 9:00-11:00 AM - Cribbage Wednesdays at 12:30-3:00 Hi-Lo Jack

Art Classes

Michelle’s Art Classes Weds at 10:30.

Cost $4.00 Donation

Knitting and Crochet Group

Fridays at 10:00 AM

Ladies Sewing and Quilting

Tuesdays at 10:30 AM.

Blood Pressures & Glucose Screenings

M&S Cleaning Service

Please contact the COA 508-252-3372 for more information.

Full Service Cleaning Co.

Podiatry Clinic with Dr. Marian Markowitz

Residential - Commercial

Carpets • Windows • Floors • Walls Post Construction Clean-Ups • Rentals

Call (508) 252-3259

Free Estimates

Fully Insured

Please call 508-252-3372 to schedule your appointment.

Cardio Drums

Mondays @ 2:00 pm

Tai Chi Classes

Tuesdays 9:00 AM. Cost $3.00 Donation

July 2020

Line Dancing Classes

Tuesdays at 10:00 AM. Cost is $3.00 Donation

Chair Yoga

Thursdays at 9:00 Cost $3.00 Donation

Zumba:

Thursdays at 10:00 AM. $3.00 Donation

Meals on Wheels:

Please contact Bristol Elders, Inc. at (508) 675-2101 for information on the Meals on Wheels program.

Senior Citizens Club:

1st Thurs @ 12:30 & 3rd Thurs @ Noon

Friends of the Rehoboth Elderly

Meets at 10:30 AM on the 3rd Monday of the month.

Veteran’s Information and Benefits:

Veterans Service Officer – Jake Kramer Call 508-252-4467 for an Appointment(s) as needed. Office hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, & Thursday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM; Friday 8:00 AM - Noon

S.H.I.N.E / OUTREACH

The COA’s Outreach/SHINE worker Bradley Marshall is available Mondays thru Wednesdays 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM and Thursdays 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM to assist you with Social Service needs from Fuel, Food, housing, Medical Insurance, and intervention help.

Please call for an appointment at 508-252-3372.

FTC & FDA: Warnings Sent To Sellers Of Scam Coronavirus Treatments

by Colleen Tressler, Consumer Education Specialist, FTC The FTC and FDA have jointly issued warning letters to seven sellers of unapproved and misbranded products, claiming they can treat or prevent the Coronavirus. The companies’ products include teas, essential oils, and colloidal silver. The FTC says the companies have no evidence to back up their claims — as required by law. The FDA says there are no approved vaccines, drugs or investigational products currently available to treat or prevent the virus.

The seven companies are: • Vital Silver • Aromatherapy Ltd. • N-ergetics • GuruNanda, LLC • Vivify Holistic Clinic • Herbal Amy LLC • The Jim Bakker Show In part, the letters require the companies to notify the FTC within 48 hours of the specific actions they have taken to address the agency’s concerns. The FTC and FDA with follow up with companies that fail to make adequate corrections. Both agencies also will continue to monitor social media, online marketplaces and incoming complaints to help ensure that the companies do not continue to market fraudulent products under a different name or on another website.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says your best defense against the Coronavirus is to: • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcoholbased hand sanitizer. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

The Reporter

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• Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose and mouth, with unwashed hands.

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

• Stay home when you’re sick.

• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched items and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

• Follow CDC’s recommendations for using a facemask. o CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19. o Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others. The use of facemasks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings (at home or in a health care facility).

• Stay informed. To learn more about the coronavirus, visit the CDC’s FAQ page. Visit the FDA to learn about the development and approval of treatments for coronavirus.

If you’re tempted to buy an unproven product or one with questionable claims, check with your doctor or other health care professional first.

The Rehoboth Council on Aging

A Municipal Department of the Town Mission: The Rehoboth Council on Aging shall coordinate and carry out programs designed to meet the needs, problems and benefits for the aging population of Rehoboth, and shall do so in coordination with the Programs of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

The Rehoboth Council on Aging shall: a. Provide, coordinate and link available resources to help meet the needs of the Town of Rehoboth’s elders. b. Carry out programs and services that range from information on community education, referrals, outreach, transportation, Meals on Wheels, health screenings, inter-generational activities, crafting programs and other programs beneficial to our seniors. c. Provide information on health care plans from the Health Connector, Medicare, MassHealth (Medicaid) and other State and Federal Assistance programs.

Seekonk Human Services Announcement Seekonk Human Services will be open for appointments only.

Please call 508-336-8772 to schedule an appointment.

Please check with the center for upcoming activities.

Visit the *The Town Crier website link is www.seekonk-ma.gov. Click on Departments, then click on Human Services.

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The Reporter July 2020

Laurie P. Mullen Attorney at Law Divorce Mediation Divorce & Family Law Uncontested Divorce Contested Divorce Child Custody Paternity Child Support Adoption

Dentistry At Its MOST Advanced.

Dentistry At Its MOST Comfortable.

Estate Planning

Wills Health Care Proxy Thanks to the most recent advances in laser dentistry, many dental procedures Power Of Attorney can now be completed without the need for anesthetics, vibration or the disconcerting 239 whine of the dental drill. Street, Dr. Alan Merchanthouse employs just Winthrop Rehoboth such technology in a relaxing country setting in Rehoboth. For the highest (508) 252-2300 quality dental care – furnished by a highly trained and friendly staff of dental e r y  www.lauriemullen.com professionals – call (508) 252-6121 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Alan Merchanthouse. ● ●

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Local Church News First Christian Congregational Church Summer Car Wash

You are all invited to a Summer Car Wash Event at First Christian Congregational Church, “The Olde White Church”, located at 1113 GAR Highway, Swansea, MA in our parking lot on Saturday, July 11 between 9:00 am – 1:00 pm! We will be offering you and your car The Works for $10, as well as other options. All proceeds from this event will go to the First Christian Congregational Church’s general funds.

Public Masses are Back at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel!

Daily Mass at 9 am Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday in the church. Also Thursday evenings 6:30 pm. Please wear a mask, use hand sanitizer, and distance.

Weekend Masses outside in the parking lot. Saturday at 4:30 pm. Sunday at 7:15, 9 and 10:45 am. Parishioners may remain in their vehicles or stand by the driver’s side. Audio broadcast over your phone. Communion is brought to you at your vehicle.

The Adoration Chapel remains open with distancing, sanitizing and masks, 8am to 8pm. Perpetual Adoration will resume July 16, the Feast of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel.

All Masses live-streamed and uploaded to the parish website http://www.olmcseekonk.org and the FB page Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish. Masses, as well as Fr. Kevin’s daily Tea and Theology discussions, are able to be accessed at any time, you need not have a FB. If you have any questions, needs, or prayer intentions, please call the office at 508-336-5549.

Newman Congregational Church, United Church of Christ Responds to Racial Tension

Our nation is in a particularly vulnerable place as we battle the COVID-19 pandemic and grieve over the loss of family, friends, and our ability to worship in our sanctuaries, synagogues, and mosques.

We are fragile and are now faced with additional examples of violence and brutality against the minority citizens of this country.

These crimes against our fellow citizens have been going on for as long as America has existed, and now are laid bare through the use of technology and sophisticated communication.

In the long history of Newman Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, our country has faced many crises, from war, economic panics, recessions, depressions and the many struggles for civil and political rights. As we enter the current conflicts brought about in our society as a result of the history of systemic racism present in our institutions, including our own beloved faith community, we stand at a crossroads which demands action and response.

And so we are called to respond.

First and foremost, we confess our complicity and participation in the abhorrent sin of racism that has plagued our society for 401 years. We make the claim as people of faith that every person on earth is a beloved Child of God and is to be welcomed among us and to be treated with dignity and respect. We are responding from our faith perspective as followers of the teachings of Jesus Christ, teachings that make it imperative that we speak humbly, but boldly, against injustice to God’s children. One method is to proclaim that: Black Lives Matter.

We have heard this phrase many times over the past several years. The point of this sentiment is not to deny the value of life to all, but to emphasize that black lives, those that have suffered

July 2020 violence, oppression, and discrimination, matter as much as anyone else’s, a fact that has been denied throughout the history of our country. The time has come to formally acknowledge this fact.

We acknowledge that the phrase itself can be a lightning rod for much conflict, with many saying that it puts black lives ahead of others, that “All Lives Matter,” and “Blue Lives Matter.” However, the context of history does not support these views. It is not a competition between lives; it is an affirmation of the importance and value of our African American siblings, all part of the community of God’s children. And it is important to us as followers of Jesus Christ to put forth this statement clearly and emphatically, as we pray that justice and equality for all may be achieved, and the Kingdom of God will become a reality for all.

Our response: The leadership of Newman Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, has committed to placing two “Black Lives Matter” banners at the front of our church building, visible to all who pass by. In addition, we are working to create community programming that will offer educational opportunities as well as possibilities for engaging in dialogue on racial justice and systemic racism for members of our own community as well as the wider community that we serve.

Programming will be made available to members of the wider community free of charge.

And we pray that our community may come together in this challenging work that holds potential for bringing about a just world for all.

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’ extravagant welcome.

Newman Congregational Church, United Church of Christ 100 Newman Avenue, Rumford, RI 02916; 401-434-4742; newmanucc.org

Sturdy Memorial’s Emergency Department Offers Warm Weather Safety Tips

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The Reporter July 2020

SCHOOL NEWS Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District End of Year Communication

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Dear Families, The year 2020 has been difficult and complex. A world-wide pandemic changed day to day life and created a new normal that resulted in the extended closure of schools across the nation and world. Protests over racial injustice sparked an outcry for reform in policing and a call for true equity in our nation’s systems.

As educators, we are tasked with inspiring a generation of students to problem solve, be catalysts for change, and help make the world better. This year, amidst these crises, connecting with our students has been more difficult than ever before. We applaud our teachers for thinking outside the box to provide instruction and support for our students. And, we thank our families for taking on the responsibilities of day to day care, instruction, and structure during school closures. We encourage our families to continue to make learning paramount. Pose questions; seek answers; and learn together.

The only true way to make positive change is through education.

As our nation faces conflict, we must confront the ignorance that leads to crises through mentoring, modeling, and teaching. The roles of parents and educators often blur. Collaboration between families and educators will continue to be essential as our nation and world face new challenges.

Our final day of school is June 22, 2020. Though teacher webpages will not be updated after 6/22, our online resources available on the DRRSD Extended Learning Website will still be available over the summer. Specifically, the Imagine Learning program will continue to be accessible to students. We also encourage families to utilize the following resources to help students understand the conflict occurring in our nation: • Talking to Kids About Racism and Justice: a list for parents, caregivers & educators from the Oakland Public Library • Resources for Educators Focusing on Anti-Racist Learning and Teaching from the Early Childhood Education Assembly • A Collection of Resources for Teaching Social Justice, Jennifer Gonzalez.

• 60+ Resources for Talking to Kids About Racism, Lorien Van Ness • Talking About Racism And Bias: Resources For Parents And Caregivers, Children’s Alliance Additionally, we remind our families to monitor school listservs and websites for information about summer reading. If you have not received information regarding summer reading or are having difficulty obtaining books because of library closures, please reach out to your child’s principal. Finally, remember to relax, reflect, and refresh over the summer. It has been a difficult year, take a step back and enjoy time with family.

Joseph Pirraglia, Jr., Assistant Superintendent Kristin Donahue, Director of Special Education Paul Kitchen, Business Administrator The mission of the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District, in partnership with parents and the community, is to provide students with the tools, including technology, to acquire knowledge, apply skills, critically analyze information and issues, and develop social responsibility.

Dighton-Rehoboth does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other legally protected group.

As the school year winds down, we will reflect on the remote learning program offered, and begin planning for the next school year. There are many questions about what our next school year

July 2020 will look like. We hope to continue to work with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), the local Boards of Health, and all stakeholders to begin to find answers and solutions to ensure next school year is positive, productive, and especially safe for our students and staff.

We hope you have a wonderful, relaxing summer and thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely, Dr. Anthony C. Azar Superintendent of Schools Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District

DESE Initial Fall Reopening Letter to Families

Dear Dighton-Rehoboth Families, Staff and Community, As many of you know, we have been waiting for guidance from our governor and our commissioner of education in regard to the opening of our schools in the fall. At our most recent school committee meeting this past Tuesday, we reiterated the formation of a Superintendent Advisory Committee that has been charged to review and then make recommendations for the fall opening.

The committee, co-chaired by Mrs. Kristin Donahue, Special Education Director, and Mrs. Alyson Belora, our district nurse, have already met several times to discuss the opening of the schools in the fall.

Therefore, with the guidance from the governor and commissioner released (please see attached), the Superintendent Advisory Committee may now proceed with reviewing the guidance and report out recommendations for implementation.

As the advisory committee’s work progresses through the summer, we will keep you informed so that you may make necessary family decisions for the fall based on the guidance we have received. Please know that the safety of our children and staff will play significantly in our next steps for a smooth opening to our school year 20-21.

If you have any questions, please reach out to your respective school’s administrative team and/or me.

Sincerely Dr. Azar

Educating our Kids about Racism and Inequality

Dear Families, The year 2020 has been difficult for adults to fathom, let alone children. Faced with a world-wide pandemic and a crisis of racial injustice, adults are now tasked with helping our kids make sense of the world in which we live. This is a tall order. There are no easy answers or explanations.

Racism and inequality has been taught in public school systems for decades. We were taught the heroes of the Civil Rights Movement. We were inspired by the courage of Martin Luther King, Jr. and Rosa Parks who stood up to the blatant racism and segregation existing during the middle of the 20th century.

We may have taken part in an exercise similar to Jane Elliot’s demonstration of segregation (based on eye color) to learn empathy. We were taught these lessons. So why have we not learned?

Sometimes it is easier to focus on the past, the blatant, the obvious rather than look inward. It is more difficult to analyze the present: the right here, right now. As educators, it is more common to study racial injustice in the context of history rather than current events. However, because of social media and more video footage than ever before, the issue of racial injustice is real as a current crisis. Schools, families, and society must confront what was before deemed “a problem, but not here” and “a product of a former generation”.

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What can we do to create positive change? It has to start with self-reflection. We need to recognize that we may not fully understand. We have to seek perspective by reading literature, finding credible resources, and having candid conversations. We have to be okay with having uncomfortable conversations and challenging closeminded thinking and behavior. We have to commit to modeling activism for our kids. We have to stop being bystanders and become upstanders.

As assistant superintendent, I understand the need for incorporating this thinking in the PRE-K – 12 curriculum of the DightonRehoboth Regional School District. Working with Dr. Azar and our school committee, we hope to engage all stakeholders in this important work.

Let’s empower our kids to be activists for equality by working together, learning together, and teaching together. Through education, we can make positive change.

Joseph Pirraglia, Jr., Assistant Superintendent Kristin Donahue, Director of Special Education Paul Kitchen, Business Administrator The mission of the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District, in partnership with parents and the community, is to provide students with the tools, including technology, to acquire knowledge, apply skills, critically analyze information and issues, and develop social responsibility.

Dighton-Rehoboth does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other legally protected group.

Sincerely, Joseph Pirraglia, Jr. Assistant Superintendent

Recommended Resources to Start the Conversation

Center for Racial Justice in Education: https://centerracialjustice.org/ American Psychology Association: Uplifting Youth through Healthy Conversations about Race: https://www.apa.org/res/parent-resources/ PBS: Talking to Young Children about Race and Racism: https:// www.pbs.org/parents/talking-aboutracism National Association for the Education of Young Children: Becoming Upended: Teaching and Learning about Race and Racism with Young Children and their Families: https://www.naeyc.org/resources/pubs/yc/may2018/teachinglearning-race-and-racism

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The Reporter July 2020

Hornbine School

The Hornbine School will not open until further notice in response to the COVID-19 Virus. For the first time in many years, we were unable to have classes visit the school in the Spring and we have been unable to have open house Sundays.

LIKE us on Facebook at “Hornbine School Museum” To receive timely notices from the Hornbine School.

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Matthew Bosh Named Assistant Principal of Seekonk High School

Seekonk, MA – Superintendent Dr. Rich Drolet is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Matthew Bosh as the new Assistant Principal at Seekonk High School. Mr. Bosh received his Bachelor’s Degree from Westfield State University studying Criminal Justice. He earned his Post Bachelors Degree from Bridgewater State University in Education and later earned his Master’s Degree in Education from Fitchburg State University.

Mr. Bosh is currently a high school Assistant Principal with East Bridgewater Public Schools. As an assistant principal, Mr. Bosh has been a campus management and school safety leader, school-wide discipline and attendance leader, District Professional Development team member, and experienced teacher evaluator. Prior to his work in East Bridgewater, Mr. Bosh was an Assistant Principal with North Attleboro Public Schools and Dean of Students/teacher at Attleboro High School.

Mr. Bosh was one of forty-two candidates who applied for the position. A search committee inclusive of district administrators and Seekonk High School staff virtually interviewed Mr. Bosh and other candidates for the position. Following two rounds of interviews with the search committee, Mr. Bosh was forwarded as a finalist to Superintendent Drolet. Dr. William V. Whalen III, Principal of Seekonk High School chaired the search committee charged with finding the new Assistant Principal. “Matt Bosh brings experience from other local high schools to Seekonk High School. He has experience evaluating teachers and promoting growth for all staff.

Mr. Bosh’s experience in the role has demonstrated his ability to help lead the high school, support faculty and staff, and effectively support students.”

Superintendent Drolet added, “We are very happy to bring Matt on board. He helps complete the new leadership team at the high school and we expect Mr. Bosh to be with us for many years to come.”

Mr. Bosh’s employment with the Seekonk Public Schools will begin on July 1, 2020.

Dr. Rich Drolet, Superintendent of Schools Seekonk Public Schools

Bishop Stang Announces Fourth Quarter Honor Roll

Bishop Stang High School is proud of the accomplishments of our students, and recognizes those students earning Honor Roll distinction. Students on the President’s List have an average 95 or above, and a 90 or above in all courses. Students receiving First Honors have an average 90 or above, and an 85 or above in all courses. Those with Second Honors have an average 85 or above, and an 80 or above in all courses.

Adam Carulli ‘21 of Rehoboth is being recognized for achieving Second Honorsin academics at Bishop Stang High School in the fourth quarter.

Local Resident(s) Graduate from Providence Country Day School

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Congratulations to the following student(s) who graduated from Providence Country Day School on June 10, 2020. Graduates drove up to receive their diplomas one at a time while guests tuned in through FM radio and online video streams. PCD commends the class of 2020 and their completion of their high school careers amid a pandemic requiring social distancing, virtual learning, and the cancellation of sports seasons, senior projects, and proms.

Seekonk, MA: Elliott Trendell, Brown University, Athletic Director Citation, the Richard S. Stanzler Memorial Prize, and the Class of 1929 Gold Medal for Excellence

July 2020

St. Mary Academy- Bay View Graduates 87 Young Women

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Local Students Receive Honors at Saint Raphael Academy

[Pawtucket, RI June 25, 2020] — Saint Raphael Academy congratulates students from Bristol County who have achieved honor roll status for the fourth marking period in academic year 2019-20. They are: Highest Honors Grade 9: Cooper Skenyon (Seekonk) First Honors Grade 10: Jakob Gries (Seekonk) Grade 11: Madison Kotch (Rehoboth), Samuel White (Seekonk) Second Honors Grade 9: Elijah Bastien (Seekonk), Erik Liebegott (Rehoboth) Grade 10: Samantha Simonds (Rehoboth) Grade 11: Meryem Oldro (Seekonk), George Turnbull (Seekonk)

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St. Mary Academy – Bay View, a leader in all-girl education since 1874, proudly graduated 87 members of the Class of 2020 on Sunday, June 7 in a ceremony as unprecedented as the end of the school year itself. The ceremony took place on campus with families arriving- and staying in their cars throughout the ceremony. Despite the unusual conditions, Bay View graduates were undaunted in their enthusiasm and shared pride about all they accomplished. “Our graduates demonstrated unusual maturity and resilience while planning alternative graduation traditions. I am so thankful to have the opportunity to celebrate them at this ceremony” noted Colleen Gribbin, Principal of the Upper School.

Bay View President, Sister Marybeth Beretta offered her remarks and reflections, “What inspires me about our Mercy community is that we meet our most demanding moments with courage, resolve, and a selfless concern for others. I’m so proud of the countless ways that our graduating class has responded to the Covid-19 crisis by rising to every challenge and accepting every disappointment with resilience and grace. Their many talents, undaunted spirit, and sense of responsibility give me great confidence for the future of a world that needs the conviction and compassion of students grounded in Mercy values.”

Every graduate has been accepted and plans to attend college this fall. Their accomplishments are reflective of the academy’s attention to the development of their character, academics, arts, and athletics as part of its programming. The fullness of their achievement will bring them to prestigious institutions of higher education. This year’s class earned a total $14,223,004 in merit scholarships for colleges and universities (for four years).

The following list represents St. Mary Academy - Bay View’s Class of 2020, including the academic and character awards bestowed to them. Membership in the Rhode Island Society and the National Honor Society is also included.

The Class of 2020 Honor Awards + National Honor Society / * Rhode Island Honor Society Rehoboth Seekonk Isabel Alho Cruz +* Melina Lynn Cabral +* Juliana Maria Goncalves* Elise Angeline Dezotell +* Gabriella Sofia Moreira +* Katie Elizabeth Kane * Zoha Muqudas +* Daniella Olivares +*

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The Reporter July 2020

Beckwith Middle School News BMS Students Win in Fire Prevention Poster Contest

Beckwith Drama Club Shares Talents from Home

A big “Congratulations” to Katie Martini for winning first place for Bristol County in the Fire Prevention Poster Contest! Another Congratulations to Haleigh Kelley for winning second place! This statewide contest spreads the importance of fire safety and prevention. Both winners will receive a plaque, a cash prize and their artwork will be published in next year’s Arson Watch calendar!

Performing a sneak peak during half time at our Believers game

Katie Martin’s first place submission

Haleigh Kelley’s second place submission

Sounds of Spring – BMS Chorus

Throughout distance learning, Beckwith’s chorus students have continued working hard practicing their chorus music and each grade has recorded at least one of their concert songs for family and friends to enjoy. Since the annual spring concert would have been held earlier this month, we are including a link for you to listen to their recordings at https://beckwithmiddleschoolmusic. weebly.com/chorus.html.

Beckwith Website

Please be sure to check our web page over the course of the summer for grade supply lists and updates.

Although their production of Seussical JR. was cancelled due to circumstance beyond anyone’s control, the Beckwith Middle School Drama Club had an exciting year full of progress. Starting in January, Drama Club members were in rehearsals three days a week with Ms. Marisa Rebelo, the Drama Advisor, and Ms. Lopez, the Music Director.

Rehearsals were filled with singing, dancing, acting and laughter. Every rehearsal would start off with a fun warm-up to get the voices and bodies moving and then they were off to work! Students could be seen doing a variety of things from singing a new song with Ms. Lopez, to learning some choreography with Ms. Rebelo, to maybe even trying on a costume with Mrs. Rossi. The Student Crew was also working extremely hard on creating beautiful set pieces and props for the production. They had painted some fantastic Dr. Seuss book bindings that were going to cover the stairs leading up to the stage.

The BMS Drama Club did get to share a sneak peak of the production at a Beckwith Believers Game on March 3rd by performing the opening number, “Oh the Thinks You Can Think.” The students had a great time sharing their talents at the game and were excited about the audience’s rave reviews. We would like to extend a special thank you to Mrs. Jerauld for coordinating this performance.

During the rehearsal process, the Student Crew interviewed cast members and asked why they enjoy theatre. Responses included that theatre allows expression in a different way than usual, that theatre is like a second home… you can be whoever you want to be., and that theatre is just fun!

We are including a link to a special project created at home by the BMS Drama Club just for you! They hope that it brings you a bit of joy and happiness.

The Beckwith Drama Club thanks you for your support, and they look forward to bringing another exciting production to the Beckwith community next year.

Members of this year’s Drama Club cast included Celia Bodurthe, Kofi Dwumah, Nathan Mackenzie, Kylie Mirra, Julianna Dias, Brendan Henneous, Caraline Corvi, Victoria Landry, Grace Griffin, Arianna Daggett, Aundraya Pinho, Luca Seccareccia, Isabelle Pirri, Charlie Rosa, Madison Mello, Emily Rebelo, Riley D’Alessio, Lorelei Kellum, Sarah Lima, Isabella Saumweber, Rowan Whittaker, Donny Azar, Jacob Kimmel, Aaron Mercer, Jack Swan, Noah Williamson, Zoie Correia, Victoria Czech, Madison Coyne, Elyna Gamboa, Avery Brown, Isabel Bonin, Jadyn Toddings, Cassandra Skinner, Grace Callaghan, Katie Silva, Mia Mourao, Sarah Cady, Hannah Carey, Raegan Baer, Riley Clement, Taylor Kimmell. Our crew members included Hazel Thomas, Jane Kostka, Finnley Dietrich, Sophia Lin, and Zachary McCann.

July 2020

Special Thanks to Students

We would like to take a moment to thank our students who had been working so hard this year on events that were not able to take place this year. We are disappointed too. We like nothing better to see you all shine. But as they say, there is always next year. And that gives us something to look forward to. So keep honing your skills. We look forward to seeing you shine brightly in person next school year.

Nurse’s Notes

To parents of 6th grade students: Pursuant to Massachusetts Department of Health regulations students entering 7th grade in the fall for school year 2020-2021 must submit a current physical dated after August 2020 as well as proof of having received the Tdap booster and the 2nd Varicella (Chicken Pox) booster. Without this proper medical documentation, your child will be subject to exclusion from school. Documentation must be sent to the school nurse before the first day of school.

As your children have their annual physicals/check-ups with their pediatricians during school closure, please email the physical including immunizations to Mrs. Mondor, RN at cmondor@ drregional.org so their school health records may be updated.

Please reach out to Mrs. Mondor to let her know when such documentation will be sent in and if your child will be seeing his/ her pediatrician over the summer.

Summer Reading

At Beckwith Middle School we believe that students become better readers when they are able to make choices about the books they read and when they love the books they have chosen. We hope students find many great books to read this summer and we are asking students to read one book following the theme for their grade.

Summer Reading packets are available on the Beckwith Middle School main web page.

Beckwith A+ Rewards at Stop & Shop

If you are not already registered from previous years, now’s the time to sign up for Stop & Shop’s A+ School Rewards program which will run from August 7, 2020 through March 13, 2021. You can register online at https://stopandshop.com/member-benefits/ By signing up and selecting Beckwith, School ID# 05944 Beckwith will benefit from your grocery purchases at no extra cost to you.

The Linda Sousa Unity Award

Linda Sousa was a special educator for nearly 20 years. She had a passion for education and was well respected and admired by her colleagues. More importantly, she was loved and respected by the many students whose lives she touched. It was exceedingly important to Linda that all students be treated with respect, be accepted, and have access to the same opportunities both in and out of school. Seeing students with differing abilities working cooperatively together was something that Linda found extremely satisfying. It confirmed her belief in the benefits of inclusion and the kindness that exists within our amazing students here at Beckwith. This year’s recipients of The Linda Sousa Unity Award are Sophie Darling and Samantha Serpa. We know Linda would be so proud of the students receiving this recognition this year. She would be proud of the entire unified team for their kindness, dedication to cooperation, and team spirit.

Beckwith Middle School Presidential Scholars

For their commitment to academic excellence and achievement ten 8th grade students were awarded certificates and pins and were treated to a Dunkin Donuts gift card since we were not able to host a Presidential Breakfast for them this year.

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Kelsey Bain, Sean Callaghan, Caraline Corvi, Sophia Lin, Kylie Mirra, Sarah Rodrigues, Ava Wasylow, and Kaelyn Whitaker were awarded the Presidential Award for Academic Excellence. These students received an A- or better in all subjects throughout their Beckwith careers.

Laura DeGirolamo and Juliana Dias were awarded the Presidential Award for Academic Achievement. These students received an A- or better in all subjects throughout their Beckwith careers with the exception of one B+.

To receive a Presidential Award is an outstanding accomplishment. Congratulations for this achievement!

Beckwith’s Scholar Leaders

Eighth graders Kaelyn Whitaker and Sean Callaghan were selected as D.L. Beckwith Middle School’s Scholar Leaders for 2020. This prestigious award is given to students from schools throughout New England who demonstrate a commitment to academic excellence and the school community. Kaelyn and Sean are positive leaders in the Beckwith school community who model the criteria for student leaders. Kaelyn and Sean consistently work hard in and out of the classroom demonstrating dedication to academic content and a strong work ethic. Among peers they stand out as positive models of respect, responsibility, and safety. They are kind, considerate, and mature. They are personable students that positively impact the climate and culture of the school building.

Congratulations to Kaelyn and Sean for receiving this award and thank you for making Beckwith Middle School a better place.

Congratulations BMS Eighth Graders!

Beckwith Middle School was so happy to celebrate the success, hard work, and growth of our 8th grade students on June 18. Students were driven on the Celebration Parade Route from DightonRehoboth Regional High School to Beckwith Middle School where their arrival was announced, student by student, and they received a bag with 8th grade memorabilia, certificates, and awards. Sophia Lin was chosen to receive the Williams College Book Award for her outstanding accomplishments. Lorelei Kellum and Timothy Zibrida received the Anthony Ferreira Citizenship Award for outstanding citizenship and contribution to school culture.

8th Grade Class of BMS

Olivia Ainsworth, Nevaeh Alfaia, Iliana Almeida-Dixon, Baylie Amaral, Dylan Andreozzi, David Anghinetti, Donald-Anthony Azar, Kelsey Bain, Kellen Baltazar, Kahlyn Baresel-Haskell, Nathan Barriere, Camren Bernier, Zackary Blair, Madeleine Blenkush, Jocelyn Borkowski, Avery Botelho, Kevin Boucher, Adrianna-Madison Bozek, Corinne Braga, Trey Brierly, Genevieve Brown, Chayce Bryant, Charlize Cabral, Cheyanne Cabral, Sean Callaghan, Aaliyah Carvalho, Lily Charlonne, Travis Chartier, Noah Chavez, Justin continued on next page...

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The Reporter July 2020

Congratulations 8th graders! Yes the best is yet to come!

Chmielewski, Leonardo Ciannavei, Nicholas Conte, Aden Cortinheiro, Caraline Corvi, Joshua Cote, Jacob Coutu, Ethan Coyne, Caiden Cruz, Evan Cutler, Riley D’Alessio, Devin D’Amico, Juliana Da Cruz, Alexander Dalpe, Sophie Darling, Dillon Darnbrough, Alexander DaSilva, Liam Dee, Laura DeGirolamo, Richard Deppisch, Jeffrey Desousa, Juliana Dias, Evan Dunn, Leah Earle, Justin Escobar, Regan Estrella, Adrielly Ferreira, Angelique Ferreira, Mason Ferreira, Elaina Flood, Tyler Foley, Brady Fontaine, Christian Fredericks, Adam Freitas, Christina Gariepy, Jaylin Gaudreau, Madison Gomes, Kevin Gousie, Justin Govoni, Alexis Guertin, Liam Hannon, Aidan Haskell, Delaney Hayden, Parker Healy, Jonah Hebda, Kylie Hillier, Ian Hoskins, William Hoskins, David Hunt, Nevaeh Kaszyk, Lorelei Kellum, William Kendall, Taylor Kimmell, Jane Kostka, Nicole Lacasse, Caitlin Laliberte, Victoria Landry, Zoey Lawrence, Aidan LeBlanc, Gabrielle LeBlanc, Alexis Leonard, Kylie Letherman, Sarah Lima, Sophia Lin, Luke Lindberg, Olivia Lubrano, Griffin Machie, Nathan MacKenzie, Kamryn Mackey, Eva Maloof, Jeffrey McNaughton, Corey Medeiros, Dylan Medeiros, Joseph Medeiros, MathewJoseph Melanson, Gage Mello, Montana Mello, Kylie Mirra, Adam Morris, Angelina Musial, Liam O’Neill, Connor Pacheco, Giselle Pacheco, Olivia Pacheco, Brady Palazzi, Elizabeth Parker, Ashley Pellechio, Luke Peltz, Sydney Pestana, Zachary Petzold, Mia Pittsley, Antonio Placido, Dylan Quinn, Emmalee Razza, Jacob Rebelo, Aden Rheaume, Connar Richardson-Dexter, Malakai Risotti, Sarah Rodrigues, Madison Root, Brodie Sammis, Ethan Sammis, Evan Sampson, Tristan Schultz, Samantha Serpa, Stephanie Sican Velez, Jacob Silva, Sarah Simon, Ella Slater, Adin Smith, Fiona Soliday, Ian Sousa, Camden St James, Peter Stchur, Nevaeh Sullivan, Matthew Suprenard, Hazel Thomas, Rylie Travers, Gianna Viola, Landen Walsh, Ava Wasylow, Evan Watts, Ryann Welzel, Kaelyn Whitaker, Rowan Whittaker, Victoria Williams, Noah Williamson, Ezra Young, Aisha Zia, and Timothy Zibrida.

Principal’s Message

Dear Staff and Families, First and foremost, I extend to every single one of you a huge Thank you. Most of us were asked to completely change every part of our life in a single weekend. Thank you for all the hard work each and every one of you did to help support this group of talented students whom we are celebrating. And now, onto my message to our amazing grade 8 students.

Be Safe, Be Kind, and Have fun!

Waving Goodbye

We Have Everything You Need for that

GRADUATION PARTY! Tables & Grills & Coolers Chairs Tents & Party Snack Packages Machines All your party & banquet needs.

Safe

Why Buy When You Can Rent? ey

TAUNTON RENTAL Don’t buy it, rent it!

One summer when I was in college I started working at a summer camp. Prior to all the campers arriving they had a week-long staff training. In one session we were asked to make a motto for our future group. I was running a program for six and seven year olds. I thought for a moment of this request, mostly thinking what three skills could my campers learn to make them good people.

I thought to myself that the camp is on the ocean and has a busy road so we need to preach safety. Then I thought I really want everyone to feel welcome and happy so we need an environment that focuses on kindness. And of course, I wanted everyone to have fun. I wanted campers to want to come back. So on a piece of paper I wrote the words “Be Safe, Be Kind, and Have Fun.” This motto became ingrained in all of us. To this day that simple motto helps me be a better person or as I often say “be the best version of myself.”

formerly Taylor Rental

Rt. 44, Taunton MA • 508-823-2501

Safe is such a simple word with a complex explanation. The word safe applies to not only yourself but the impact your action has on everyone else. When a situation arises that is not safe or puts you at risk, you need to ask yourself if this goes bad, can I get hurt, who else am I hurting, who else will be impacted, and is this worth the risk? You are all lucky to be raised by people who love you. Therefore, you owe it to them to ask yourself those questions.

Each and every one of you will be going to a school with students who you haven’t met yet. You will be making new friends. When looking at peers for new friendships remember that words have

July 2020

The Reporter

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BMS Students Staying Connected

Family game time

Enjoying a good book

Places that make them happy

the moment. It’s so important to our mental health that we have fun. A few weeks ago I wrote about playing games and finding time to enjoy playing board games together. Find time to enjoy each and every day. Find happiness and fun will follow.

Summer is a great time to enjoy Sharing their workspace with us a good book power. How are you and they using them? We also know that being safe applies to the emotional health of everyone. Your words have power. Are you using them to raise someone else up or are you using your words to bring someone down. How are the people around you treating you? You deserve to be happy and have a good group of people around you.

I am sorry that we never got the chance to say a proper goodbye and have proper closure. However, I am not sorry that I have gotten to know you all and see you grow. I have seen you shine in Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, Beckwith’s Got Talent, and lip sync contests. I got to see the school win throughout the Massasoit League with three league championships in my short time here, and the first girls’ home softball game at Beckwith. I got to witness a home math meet where our students so proudly helped visiting students and a debate team that competed virtually. These are just a few of the happy moments that I have had at Beckwith with you students.

You all have the skills to be successful. You are talented, creative, smart, and ready to crush it moving forward. Being safe, kind, and having fun is what you need to help guide you to be the best version of yourself.

Congratulations! You all deserve it! We miss you and wish you all the best of luck moving forward. And please remember to be safe, be kind, and have fun.

Mr. Shea

Kind

Kindness is how I view the world. It is so easy and everyone benefits from being kind. The kind person feels good about oneself and the person receiving a kind gesture positively impacts their day. Being kind is also finding empathy in a difficult situation. You might be driving in a few years from now. At one point I promise you that a person will cut you off or drive irresponsibly around you.

In this moment as the driver you have two choices: you can feel anger because that person was dangerous, or you can feel empathy and wonder why that person is in such a rush. If you choose anger that is understandable because most likely you were scared in that moment. However, anger is going to change your entire mood. If you choose to look at the person cutting you off from an empathetic view, then you remove the negative emotion from your world. I believe that if we all approach situations with a kindness approach, you will slowly change your world. You will notice the people around you are in a better space and you will feel better.

Fun

It is essential that everyone has fun. You need to laugh. You need to have the kind of innocent inside jokes that it hurts because you laugh so hard every time it’s mentioned. Having fun is enjoying

BASKETBALL TRAINING

13th Annual Summer Hoop CampS • Providence Country Day School East Providence, RI JULY 27th-31st • 9:00 AM TO 2 PM (8:30am drop-off) Boys & Girls* Ages 5-15* Cost: $185.00 *separate instruction by gender and age/ability in the three court PCD Fieldhouse

• Gordon School

We will be following all CDC & RI State Camp Guidelines for the safety of our campers

East Providence, RI AUG 3rd-7th • 9:00 AM TO 2 PM (8:30am drop-off) Boys & Girls Grades 1-9, Cost: $195.00

For more info call Frank Luca at 401-639-0814 or Register on-line @ www.1on1basketball.com

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The Reporter July 2020

Food & Dining Add Seafood to Summer Meals (Family Features) Grilled meals provide a summer escape for many families by offering opportunities to spend moments together while enjoying flavorful dishes. As Americans face uncertainty in many aspects of life, one place they should be able to turn to for normalcy is food.

One option that checks boxes including comfort, fun, taste and variety: seafood. As a nutritious protein available across the country, it is versatile and can be paired with a variety of cuisines and flavors.

Options range from salmon and shrimp to crab, tuna and more.

To encourage hungry Americans to enjoy the many benefits of eating seafood, the “Eat Seafood America” campaign offers these reasons to add fish, shrimp and more to your menu: * Whether you order online, head to a store or purchase fresh from a local fisherman, seafood is widely available. * Seafood works for a variety of dishes and cooking methods, such as these recipes for Easy Shrimp Skewers, a light and hasslefree family meal, or Seared Salmon with Mediterranean Salsa, a fun spin on cowboy caviar. * Seafood provides essential nutrients that support immune health, such as omega-3s that may even help reduce anxiety, according to research published by “The Journal of the American Medical Association.” * Purchasing seafood supports 2 million American jobs for men and women who follow high levels of food safety practices to provide sustainable seafood.

Find more ways to add seafood to your summer menu at eatseafoodamerica.com.

Easy Shrimp Skewers

Recipe courtesy of Annessa Chumbley, RDN, on behalf of the Seafood Nutrition Partnership . Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes ~ Servings: 5 Ingredients • 10 wooden skewers • water • 2 medium zucchinis, cut into large chunks • 2 medium bell peppers (any color), cut into large chunks • 2 red onions, cut into large chunks • 1 cup cherry tomatoes • 10-12 ounces cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails on • olive oil • sea salt, to taste • 1 lemon, juice only Directions: In bowl, soak skewer sticks in water at least 10 minutes to prevent burning on grill). Preheat grill to medium-high heat.

Build skewers by alternating zucchinis, bell peppers, onions, tomatoes and shrimp, pushing ingredients closely together on each skewer. Brush each with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt, to taste.

Cook skewers about 9 minutes, rotating every 3 minutes until veggies and shrimp are seared but not overcooked. Remove and place on large platter.

Drizzle with lemon juice and serve.

Your summer seafood headquarters!

Check our website for daily specials!

Always open to the public

Summer Menu & Outdoor Dining Live Music Thursday thru Saturday

Kitchen Hours:

www.portsidefish.com 774-331-2057

Mon: Closed Tues-Fri: 11am-7pm Sat-Sun: 10am-6pm 319 Tremont Street, Rehoboth, MA 02769 LOCATED AT CHARTLEY’S PLAZA!

Noon- 9pm Monday thru Saturday; Sunday Noon – 7pm LaCollina is located at 82 Hillside Ave., Rehoboth MA 508.252.5563 www.hillsidecountryclub.com Make a reservation today!

July 2020 The Reporter

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Seared Salmon with Mediterranean Salsa

Recipe courtesy of Annessa Chumbley, RDN, on behalf of the Seafood Nutrition Partnership Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes ~ Servings: 4-6 Ingredients • 2 tablespoons olive oil • 4-6 salmon filets (each about 1-inch thick) • sea salt, to taste • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed • 1 can quartered or chopped artichoke hearts, drained

• 1 cup diced cucumber • 1 cup diced cherry tomatoes • 1/3 cup diced red onion • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese • 1handful fresh spinach, chopped • balsamic glaze Directions In skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Sear salmon filets 4 minutes. Sprinkle tops of each salmon filet with sea salt, to taste.

Flip and cook 4 minutes until barely done. Remove to serving platter.

In medium bowl, make salsa by gently folding together chickpeas, artichoke hearts, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, feta and spinach. Sprinkle with sea salt, to taste. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and spoon salsa over each salmon filet.

Refrigerate leftover salsa.

Source: Seafood Nutrition Partnership

Flavor Fusion

Glass Jar Layered Taco Salad

Prep time: 10 minutes ~ Servings: 1 Ingredients • 1/2 avocado • 1/4 teaspoon serrano pepper • 1 tablespoon cilantro • 2 tablespoons NAKANO Organic Seasoned Rice Vinegar • 2 tablespoons sesame oil • 1 teaspoon lime juice • 1/3 teaspoon salt • 1/2 cup corn • 1/2 cup red cabbage, shredded • 1/2 cup jicama, diced • 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed • 1/2 cup shredded green cabbage • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved • 1/2 cup extra-firm tofu, diced • 1/2 cup corn chips, crushed • 1/2 cup spinach • 1 tablespoon queso fresco

508.336.4361 503 Winthrop Street, Rehoboth MA Call today to place your Take Out Order and pick up @ the Take Out Window

Now open for Dine In at 50% or 25 Seats taking reservations but not required

Monday-Closed • Tuesday-Friday 11:30 AM - 8:00 PM Saturday 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM • Sunday 7:00 AM -1:00 PM

Breakfast Menu & Lunch/Dinner Menu online @ vinosfamilycafe.com Visit us on Facebook @VinosFamilyCafe for daily updates.

Summer Grilling Packs 4- Hamburgers, 4-Hot Dogs, 2-Italian Sausage (uncooked) American Cheese, Lettuce, Tomato, Raw Onion, Pickles Pint of Potato Salad, Pint of Macaroni Salad, Pint of Cole Slaw

House Made Salads $10/Pint Chicken Salad • Tuna Salad • Seafood Salad

Cook Your Own Kabobs

24 hr advanced notice is appreciated Steak Kabobs, 1 LB of Steak Tips on each with Whole Mushrooms, Onions, Peppers $10.00 each NO minimum order - cook @ home Also available upon request Chicken Swordfish Scallops

Vino’s will be closed for vacation Monday, July 20th - Friday July 31st, opening Saturday, August 1st @ 7:00 AM. We would like to sincerely thank everyone for their support, loyalty, and patience through this pandemic.

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The Reporter July 2020

Going Out? Staying In? Find Good Food Right Here.

Directions: In bowl, mash avocado and add serrano pepper, cilantro, rice vinegar, sesame oil, lime juice and salt. Stir to combine.

Build salad in layers of corn, cabbage, jicama, black beans, cabbage, tomatoes, tofu, corn chips, spinach and queso fresco while adding drizzles of dressing between layers.

Pro Flavor-Fusion Tips

* The key to a successful stir-fry is to use high heat to quickly cook meats and vegetables in stages without overcrowding the pan.

This ensures that veggies stay slightly crisp, and meats develop a delicious sear instead of steaming. * Avocado oil has one of the highest smoke points, making it a great choice for high-heat cooking like stir-frying.

* Hoisin sauce, which you can find in the Asian section of most grocery stores, is used frequently in Chinese and Vietnamese cuisine. It’s a salty, fermented soybean paste often combined with garlic, chiles and five-spice powder, which adds a sweet, umamirich, aromatic flavor to the dish. * Shishito peppers are slender, mild, green Japanese peppers available in the produce section of well-stocked grocery stores or Asian markets. If shishito peppers are unavailable, substitute with multicolored mini peppers. * To accommodate those who love a lot of spice and those who prefer less spice, serve mild-to-medium-spicy foods with additional chili sauce on the side. * Swap out heavy, high-calorie salad dressings for a splash of additional flavor with NAKANO rice vinegar.

Find more flavorful ways to put an Asian twist on your summer dishes at nakanoflavors.com.

Outdoor Dining Available 7 Days a Week THE FRESHEST SEAFOOD & BEST FRIED CLAMS AROUND! Fresh Seafood Purchased Daily!

Fried Clams-Chowder-Clamcakes Burgers-Steak & Cheese-Chicken Fingers

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Support Local Restaurants 12 Ft Famous for our Wings and Pulled Pork HD TV

COUNTRY KITCHEN Serving Breakfast & Lunch

COUNTRY KITCHEN

•Fresh Fruit Waffles• •Homemade Pies• •Fish-n-chips• •Daily Specials• •Catering Available•

Offering CATERING Serving Breakfast & Lunch AVAILABLE

Over 80 Flavors of Sauce Huge Salads • 16 Beers on Draft

Take Out, Take outWaffles• AvailablePickup (508) 336-9807 •Fresh Fruit Curbside 469 Taunton Ave., Rt. 44, Seekonk, MA •Homemade Pies• CATERING and Delivery •Fish-n-chips•

Open Tuesday-Sunday 11:30am-8:00pm Dine-In or Takeout

To Order Take out Available (508) 336-9807

540 Central Ave, Rte 152 • Seekonk MA

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 6am-2pm, Sat. 7am-11am, Sun. 8am-12pm

AVAILABLE •Daily Specials• Call 508-336-9807 •Catering Available• 469 Taunton Ave., Rt. 44, Seekonk, MA

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 6am-2pm, Sat. 7am-11am, Sun. 8am-12pm

508-761-6854 Hours:WWW.BONEYARDBARBECUE.COM Sun-Thurs 11am-11pm; Fri & Sat 11am-12am est 1987

508.336.4361 Updated Dining & Take Out Hours: Monday-Closed Tuesday-Friday 11:30 AM - 8:00 PM Saturday 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM Sunday 7:00 AM -1:00 PM

Check our Vino’s Facebook page & vinosfamilycafe.com for daily specials.

503 Winthrop St. Rehoboth

We are Open for Dining and Take out 250 Warren Ave, East Providence 401-434-0037

www.myebisu.com

We l c o m e

To O u r Is l a n d

INDOOR & OUTDOOR NOW OPEN

Call for Reservations Open for Take-Out Daily

11am-7pm Offering curbside pickup. Orders can be placed by calling 401-431-1322 or via online ordering through www.madeirarestaurant.com and click on online ordering tab.

288 Warren Avenue, East Providence

®

Opening for Dine-In July 8th Curbside Available

Phone orders only 401-438-4646

Regular menu, Gluten Free menu & Catering menu all available

uncletonys.com/east-providence/ www.facebook.com/UncleTonysEP/

260 Newport Avenue, Rumford, RI 02916

STEAK & PIZZA 208 Taunton Ave East Providence RI

401-434-3523 www.saxs.biz

Open for patio, inside or side walk dining Please call (401)434-8008 for reservations or take out Inside, Patio and side walk hours Sunday-Thursday 11:30am to 9:00pm Friday and Saturday 11:30am-10:00pm

75 Highland Ave, East Providence, RI corner of Rte 6 and Catamore Blvd

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The Reporter July 2020

IN MEMORIAM Denise R. Clegg

Denise R. Clegg, 55, of Seekonk, passed away peacefully after a prolonged battle with cancer on Saturday, June 20, 2020. She is survived by her beloved husband Thomas; son Timothy Wahl Jr. and his wife Jennifer; sister Michelle; brothers Kenneth and Marc; several nieces and nephews and many dear friends.

Denise was born in Central Falls, RI to Donald Lacasse and the Denise R. Clegg late Rachel (Lavergne) Lacasse.

She graduated from Bishop Feehan High School Class of 1982 and obtained her Associate degree in Nursing from the Community College of Rhode Island and her Bachelor degree in Nursing from Salve Regina University. Denise enjoyed a successful nursing career spanning twenty years, particularly enjoying her role as a

80 Broadway, Taunton MA 02780 508.822.0081 www.silvafuneralhome.com

home care nurse. She then took on the responsibility of running Four Town Farm’s “Pumpkin Rides” for many years, a popular annual autumn tradition cherished by her husband (one of Four Town Farm’s owners). Denise was well known for her love of people and animals and forever remembered as a loving mother, wife, sister, daughter, aunt and friend.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Friday, June 26, 2020 at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, 984 Taunton Avenue, Seekonk, MA. Burial was in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 550 Wampanoag Trail, East Providence. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Denise R. Clegg to either: The Lustgarten Foundation (supporting pancreatic cancer research) at https:// www.lustgarten.org/donate/ or to Seekonk Animal Shelter, 100 Peck Street, Seekonk, MA 02771.

Rehoboth

• Paul (Buzz) Tessier, age 75, a long-time resident of Rehoboth passed away suddenly following a motorcycle accident on Saturday, May 9, 2020 in Deland, FL. • Joseph A. Quaglia, 84, passed away on May 21, 2020 at Study Memorial Hospital.

• Raymond Clark McKearney, 79, of Rehoboth, MA, died peacefully of natural causes on Wednesday, May 28, 2020 at HopeHealth Hulitar Hospice Center in Providence, RI, his family by his side.

• Margaret (Peggy) L. Carpenter, 90, of Rehoboth passed away peacefully at the Jewish Convalescent Home in New Bedford on Thursday, June 11, 2020.

• Patricia A. Vaslet, 85, passed away on Friday, June 19, 2020.

Owners and Directors, Amy Silva Rigtrup, Type 3, Lawrence Quintal, Type 3 and Christine (DeLawrence) Quintal, Typre 3

Competent Concern When the Need Arises Affordable Funeral & Cremation Services regardless of financial circumstance Pre-Planning Specialists Proudly serving Rehoboth & Seekonk families since 1898 Andrew J. Correia, MBIE; President/Funeral Director & Embalmer

210 Taunton Ave., ROUTE 44 • East Providence RI 02914 (401) 434-2600 • www.jhwilliamsfuneralhome.com

Seekonk

• Patricia A. (FOX) Borden, 67, of Arcade Avenue, Seekonk, MA, died May 25, 2020, at home after a long illness.

• Captain William “Bill” S. Follett, USAF (Ret.), 81, passed away on Monday, May 25, 2020 in Sturdy Memorial Hospital.

• Doris M. (Davies) Davenport, 97, of Seekonk, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2020 at Linn Health Care Center.

• Everett A. Wiseman, 69, passed away on Thursday, June 4, 2020.

• Daniel Silvia, 74 of Seekonk, MA, died peacefully at home on June 5, 2020.

• Albert F. Hunt, 80, of Seekonk, MA passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 6, 2020 at his home.

• Lorraine Bowlin, 82, of Malta Street, passed away on Wednesday, June 10, 2020 at the Seasons Hospice Inpatient Center in Milton, MA. • Jean P. (Przybysz) Martin, 74, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 12, 2020 with family by her side.

• Shirley Ann McDonald, 79, of Seekonk, Massachusetts, passed away at her home on June 23, 2020 with loved ones and her partner of over 40 years Geraldine “Gerri” Tapalian.

July 2020 The Reporter

Richard L. Elderkin

in the Free Methodist Church, 453 Taunton Avenue, Seekonk. Kindly wear a mask & practice social distancing. Burial was held in Idetown Cemetery, Pennsylvania.

In lieu of flowers, gifts in his memory to the Free Methodist Church will be appreciated.

Arrangements have been entrusted to J.H. WILLIAMS & CO. FUNERAL HOME. For online messages of condolence, kindly visit www.jhwilliamsfuneralhome.com

67

Obituary Submission Policy

To submit an obituary for print, please call the Reporter Office at 508-252-6575 for rates and information.

Obituaries Start at $75

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Truckload Sale Going On Now!

Richard L. Elderkin Richard L. Elderkin, 76, of Attleboro, died peacefully on July 1, 2020 at Philip Hulitar Hospice Center. He was the loving husband of Sandra J. (Hoover) Elderkin. Born in Attleboro, he was a son of the late Winferford A. Elderkin, Sr. & Nellie M. (Peck) Elderkin, descendants of the Seaconke Wampanoag Indian Tribe. He was the son-in-law of the late Ellis & Edith (Smith) Hoover.

Richard worked as a front loading truck driver for many years with David J. Brask, Goditt & Boyer, Waste Systems, & Waste Management. He was a 1963 graduate of East Providence High School.

He was a long standing member of the Free Methodist Church in Seekonk for over 60 years, where he served as a board member and Sunday School Superintendent.

In addition to his wife, he leaves his loving children, Richard E. Elderkin & his wife Laura of Dallas, PA and Russell W. Elderkin of Attleboro. He was the beloved grandfather of Caleb R. Elderkin of Dallas, PA. He was the brother of Carol Virian, Violet Elderkin, Paul Elderkin & his wife Joan, the late Winerford A. “Moto” Elderkin, Jr., Ruth Caporoletti, David Elderkin, Grace Wood, John Elderkin, Roland Elderkin, & Victor Elderkin.

Calling hours were Saturday, July 4th 2020 from the hours of 12:00 to 4:00 pm

Quality Cabinetry & Countertops Seekonk • 508-557-0392 68 Mink Street, Seekonk 02771 Narragansett • 401-783-3100 1 Pier Marketplace, Narragansett, RI 02882

www.Kitchensdirectne.com

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The Reporter July 2020

CLASSIFIEDS

Place Classified ads at www.ReporterToday.com WANTED

Civil War, WW1, WW2, Anything to do with military; helmets, knives, uniforms, guns, HAVE (license), anything related to wartime, will pay cash for items, ask for Charles, call 508-2306444; call anytime thanks Wanted: Flower vases. Please donate. Call Debbie at 401-6323602.

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.

JOB OPENING

Immediate Job Opening for a bookkeeper at Barrington United Methodist Church in Barrington, Rhode Island. Estimated time commitment of 1-3 hours a week.

A successful candidate will be friendly, organized, professional, have a strong moral character, and role model Christian behavior.

Bookkeeper will work closely with church Treasurer & Finance Committee.

HELP WANTED

Companion: I’m looking for a mature woman to be my companion once a week for 2 hours. We’ll discuss payment when reply.

Call Ana at 401-431-0306.

The Town of Rehoboth Highway Department is seeking a qualified Truck Driver /Laborer. You will operate a variety of trucks and equipment utilized in construction, maintenance and repair activities, and snow removal; Performs a variety of semi-skilled tasks in maintenance of streets, utility and storm drainage systems; performs manual labor as necessary. The complete job description and Applications are posted on the Town Web Site www.town. rehoboth.ma.us . or by calling 508-252-3912 ask for Stacy Vilao.

Applications will be accepted until July 17th 2020.

FOR SALE

Ducane Stainless Steel gas Grill w/side burner 2 years old Like new $450 paid $600 508-252-1046.

VACATION RENTALS VACATION - HONEYMOON RENTAL: St. Michael, Azores Ponta Graca (Portugal). Pristine 2 bed, 2 bath apartment with kitchen, DR, LR & laundry. Linens provided. Majestic Atlantic and mountain views from spacious deck. Near golf courses, beaches, and more. $525 Weekly. Time is money, must act now. Call 401-480-0374 or 508-336-8432.

HOME & GARDEN

Plants for Sale: Inside and outside; hanging plants, perennials, annuals, herbs, bushes, coleus, strawberry plants, ground cover, angel trumpets, citronella plants & forsythia. Extra large pots available. Everything from $1 to $10. 401-433-2922. Also, you can find me at The Weaver Farmer’s Market on Thursdays July thru September from from 4-7pm.

E N E RG I E S

Trade name for Al's Quality Oil Co., Inc. HEATFORCE FUEL * AT NO ADDITIONAL COST

• Reduces oil consumption • Reduces sludge for fewer breakdowns • Improves fuel quality for a cleaner home & environment

• Discounted “will call” C.O.D. prices • Automatic Deliveries • Burner Service by our own experienced technicians 24/7 • Service Contracts • Budget Plans • Propane Deliveries

Online Ordering Now Available!

Summer is upon us.

Have your A/C installed now and SAVE! $200 Off New Installation expires 7/30/20

Family owned & operated for over 40 years

er

508-222-3187

y

www.qualityenergies.com

GENERAL SERVICES

Housecleaning. Is your home in need of a great cleaning?

Whether you need a one-time or regular cleanings. Years of experience. Fridge and oven included in our service. Call Gil for details 508-840-6611.

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. Call Tony 508-226-1295; www.BigBlueRemoval.com.

July 2020 The Reporter

69

Business Directory PAGE

CATEGORY

COMPANY NAME

PAGE

Antiques/Cash for Gold Americana Auction

23

Electrician

Neal Bellavance Electric

41

Art Supplies/Framing

Gregory D. Dorrance, Co.

50

Farm

Osamequin Farm

46

Attorney

Laurie P. Mullen, Attorney

52

Farm

Souza Family Farm

45

Attorney

Law Office of Luke P. Travis

39

Farm Supplies

Spring Garden Farm

45

Auto Body

A-1 Custom Auto Body

8

Fence Installation

Fence Tech

32

Auto Body

Tri Star Autobody

34

Flooring - All Types

Earle Dias Interiors

41

Auto Dealers

Bristol Toyota

36

Flooring - Wood

David J. Ledoux Hardwood Floors

24

Auto Dealers

Gesner Auto

12

Fuel - Oil

Al’s Quality Oil Co.

68

Auto Parts

NorthEastern Auto Supply

32

Fuel - Oil

E & V Oil Co.

72

Auto Repairs

Auto Show

18

Fuel - Propane

Dupuis Oil

16

Auto Repairs

New England Tire

3

Funeral Home

J.H. Williams & Co. Funeral Home

66

Beauty Products

Isabel’s Avon & Gift Boutique

12

Funeral Home

Silva Funeral Home

66

Building Contractor

A.M. Carpentry

28

Garden Center

Little Tree Nursery

48

Building Contractor

M.G. Salois Construction

20

Garden Center

Under the Sun Farm

46

Camp-Basketball

One On One Basketball Camp

61

Handyman

American Eagle Entertrises, LLC

9

Carpet Cleaning

Earle’s Carpet Cleaning

49

Heating & Air

Taylor Heating and Air Conditioning

54

Carpet Cleaning

M & S Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning 50

Hotels

Hotel Tybee

2

Carpet Cleaning

Spotlezz Carpet Cleaning

29

House Cleaning

Marinalva’s Cleaning

20

Child Care

Twin Oaks Farm Learning Center

57

Insurance

Metlife Auto and Home

25

Chimney Cleaning

RD Chimney Sweep

32

Insurance

South Coast Benefits

7

Chimney Services

Kenny’s Masonry & Chimney Sweep 55

Insurance Agency

Frazao Insurance

17

Cleaning Service

Debbie’s Cleaning Service

31

Insurance Agency

Smith Insurance

27

Collectibles

Wexler’s Collectibles

31

Janitorial Supplies

Land Tek

7

Country Club

Hillside Country Club

13

Junk Removal

AOL Enterprises

24

Dentist

David C. Zaluski, D.D.S.

59

Kitchen Remodeling

Kitchens Direct, Inc

67

Dentist

Dr. Wassouf D.D.S.

52

Kitchen/Bath Design

Infinity Kitchens

14

Dentist

George Family Orthodontics

9

Landscape Materials

J&J Materials

4

Dentist

Seekonk Dental

11

Landscape Service

Green Care Landscaping

72

Dog Training

Pooch Pawsitive

25

Landscape Service

Holden’s Landscaping

40

Electrician

Greaves Electric

39

Landscape Service

Kimmell Landscaping

47

CATEGORY

COMPANY NAME

Valter Rego Masonry Patios, Outdoor Kitchens, Retaining Walls, Stonewalls, Driveways, Steps, Walkways, Foundation Repairs, Basement Waterproofing, All Types of Cement Work Residential and Commercial Free estimates, no job too small

Call 401-781-2262 or 774-565-0579 www.valterregomasonry.net Licensed & Insured

Sanitation Inc. e m o o r C

Commercial

Residential

Quick Radio Dispatch Service

Quality Service Since 1962

Septic Tanks & Cesspools Vacuum Cleaned • Sewer Rooter Service

508-252-4668 • 508-336-7024 Rehoboth, MA  

www.croomesanitation.com

70

The Reporter July 2020

Business Directory CATEGORY

CATEGORY

COMPANY NAME

PAGE

COMPANY NAME

PAGE

Landscape Service

Landscaping Services

53

Real Estate

TK Real Estate Brokerage

28

Landscape Service

Oakhill Landscape

42

Real Estate

Vicki Doran

13

Landscape Service

Superior Lawn Care

14

Remodeling

Batty Construction

50

Landscape Service

T. Moreshead Landscaping

44

Rental Stores

Taunton Rental

60

Marble Fabricators

Star Marble & Granite

49

Restaurant

Boneyard Barbecue & Saloon

65

Masonry-Construction

StoneScapes - Mark Carvalho

33

Restaurant

Country Kitchen

65

Masonry-Construction

Valter Rego Masonry

69

Restaurant

Dicky’s Clam Shack Two

64

Masonry-Construction

William Gallant, Jr. Masonry

43

Restaurant

Ebisu.2

65

Nursing Home

Hattie Ide Chaffee Home

35

Restaurant

La Collina

62

Orthodontics

George Family Orthodontics

9

Restaurant

Madeira Restaurant

65

Painting Contractor

Advantage Painting

44

Restaurant

Midici Italian Kitchen

65

Painting Contractor

Cronan Painting

41

Restaurant

Vino’s Family Cafe

65

Painting Contractor

EZ Painting

70

Restaurant

Vino’s Family Cafe

63

Painting Contractor

Iachetti Painting Company

29

Restaurant-Pizza

Sax’s Steak & Pizza

65

Painting Contractor

Lundco Painting LLC.

22

Restaurant-Pizza

Uncle Tony’s Pizza

65

Painting Contractor

Val Arruda & Son Painting, Inc.

54

Roofing Contractor

B & R Fournier Construction, Inc.

54

Paving Contractor

All Phase Asphalt Driveways

38

Roofing Contractor

Tabeleys Roofing

53

Paving Contractor

Custom Paving Company

57

RVs and Campers

Camping World of Berkley

71

Paving Contractor

Mohegan Seal Coating Co

40

Seafood Market

Digger’s Catch

23

Paving Contractor

Ryan Asphalt Paving

56

Seafood Market

Portside Fish Market, LLC

62

Paving - Masonry

Blue Stone Driveways & Masonry

22

Septic Inspections

Pro Inspection Services

70

Pest Control Services

Bi-State Pest Control

43

Septic Systems

Bay State Sewage

34

Pest Control Services

Lincoln Pest & Property Solutions

15

Septic Systems

Croome Bros. Sanitation, Inc.

69

Pharmacy

Simpson’s Pharmacy, Inc

23

Septic Systems

Fisk Contracting Co.

49

Physical Therapy

Personal Best Physical Therapy

48

Septic Systems

Soares Sanitation Pumping, Inc.

39

Plastering & Painting

David Laurino - Plastering

44

Septic Systems

Town Sanitation

30

Plumbing & Heating

Sine Plumbing & Heating

43

Trash/Junk Removal

Big Blue Removal Service

24

Plumbing & Heating

Vintage Plumbing & Heating

31

Tree Service

Advanced Tree

20

Powerwashing

East Bay Pressure Wash

28

Tree Service

Carlson Tree Service

41

Real Estate

Aubin Realty

33

Tree Service

Choate Tree Service

53

Real Estate

Century 21 - David Smith

19

Tree Service

Heritage Tree & Arborist Northeast

42

Real Estate

ReMax Rivers Edge Agents

26

Tree Service

Seekonk Tree Service

58

Real Estate

Robert DaRocha, Realtor

72

Water Treatment

Water Filter Company, Inc.

21

Wells & Sump Pumps

Vintage Plumbing & Heating

31

Title 5 Inspection

$25

• Voluntary Assessments * Not affiliated & Consulting Discount with any on Title V • Septic Systems septic system installation or Inspection • Cesspools pumping co.

Professional Inspection Services - Est.1995 -

Call Steven Drew • 508-667-4025 MassDEP Approved Title 5 Inspector

No Mess!

We Hand-Dig

Commercial & Residential

Year-Round Service

July 2020 The Reporter

71

D AY S

NO Payments

60 FOR

DAYS^

RVs for less than

RVs for less than

New 2020 Heartland

New 2021 Keystone

6/Day

$

9/Day 16/Day

$

1

PIONEER RG26 1

Stk. #1714202 - Monthly payment of $174/mo based on 15% down, 5.99% APR & 144 Months. Daily value is calculated by monthly payment $174 multiplied by 12 months divided by 365 days to equal $5.72/day.

RVs for less than

$

2

New 2020 Jayco

COUGAR 23MLS 2

Stk. #1771173 - Monthly payment of $264/mo based on 15% down, 5.49% APR & 180 Months. Daily value is calculated by monthly payment $264 multiplied by 12 months divided by 365 days to equal $8.67/day.

3

REDHAWK 26XD 3

Stk. #1727840 - Monthly payment of $467/mo based on 15% down, 5.49% APR & 240 Months. Daily value is calculated by monthly payment $467 multiplied by 12 months divided by 365 days to equal $15.36/day.

137 Myricks St. in BERKLEY, MA | 877.499.9710 | CampingWorld.com/RV *Based on lender credit qualifications with approved credit. Down payment may be required. Not available in PA. New unit photography for illustration purposes only; May not be combined with any other offer and not applicable to prior sales; Offer(s) valid at any Camping World affiliated dealerships; Void where prohibited; See dealer for details. ©2020 FreedomRoads, LLC. The CAMPING WORLD logo is a registered trademark of CWI, Inc. and used with permission. Unauthorized use of any of CWI, Inc.’s trademarks is expressly prohibited. All rights reserved. Offers expire 7/31/2020.

BOS25231-0620

72

The Reporter July 2020

The Reporter P.O. Box 170 Rehoboth, MA 02769

24 HOURS

7 D AY S A W E E K

“Ever y Day is Monday ”

Call us today. * FULL SERVICE * Premium heating oil

EFFICIENCY & VALUE Serving the East Bay for over 40 years

PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID ATTLEBORO, MA PERMIT NO. PI 228

508-336-8851 / 800-515-8003

2500 GAR HIGHWAY, SWANSEA MA MASTER MA RI LICENSED

www.evoilco.com

GreenCare GreenCare GreenCare

Landscaping, Inc.

“Planting Today for a Better Tomorrow!”

DaRocha

Landscaping, GROUNDS CARE & LAWN CARE Inc. “Planting Today for a Better Tomorrow!”

Commercial & Residential Properties

Real Estate Group

LANDSCAPE PLANTINGS & DESIGN GROUNDS CARE & LAWN CARE

BUYERS Need Homes andRATES RatesARE are still SPRING IS HERE! LOW!Low!

THE TIME TO BUY/SELL IS NOW! Want toGreat Know the Value of Your Home?

Time to Buy or Sell this

Call for a FREE Comparative Market Analysis. andAppeal Summer!

We will give Spring you Curb Assessment & Staging Design Tips To Make Your Home Stand Out!

Bob DaRocha, REALTOR

ABR, SFR, SRES Licensed in RI & MA bobrealtor7@gmail.com Eu Falo Portugues Office: 508-252-6952 Cell: 774-451-4603

www.BobRealtor.com

Commercial & Residential Properties

Inc. HARDSCAPINGLandscaping, (WALLS, PATIOS & WALKWAYS) “Planting Today for a Better Tomorrow!”

LANDSCAPEHYDRO-SEEDING PLANTINGS & DESIGN IRRIGATION, & MORE!

HARDSCAPING (WALLS, PATIOS WALKWAYS) 227 Plain Street, Route&CARE 118 GROUNDS CARE & LAWN Commercial & Residential Properties

(5 Minitues from Swansea Mall) Rehoboth, MAHYDRO-SEEDING IRRIGATION, & MORE!

Email: greencarema@gmail.com LANDSCAPE PLANTINGS & DESIGN Plain Street, Route 118 Visit Our227 Website at www.GreenCareMa.com (5 Minitues from Swansea Mall) Rehoboth, MA HARDSCAPING (WALLS, PATIOS & WALKWAYS) ASK ABOUT OUR SEASONAL Email: greencarema@gmail.com GROUNDS PACKAGE! IRRIGATION, HYDRO-SEEDING & MORE! Visit Our Website atCARE www.GreenCareMa.com ABOUT OUR SEASONAL 227 Plain Street, 118 We ASK Specialize in Landscape TREES, SHRUBS & Route PERENNIALS (5 Minitues from Swansea Mall) Rehoboth, MA GROUNDS CARE PACKAGE! and Design for our Plantings Landscape & Design Customers Email: greencarema@gmail.com TREES, SHRUBS & PERENNIALS Visit Our Website at www.GreenCareMa.com for our Landscape & Design Customers ASK ABOUT OUR SEASONAL

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