October 2023 Rehoboth Reporter

Rehoboth The Fall

Re p o rt e r

see page 65

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!

Please Note:

• Letters to the Editor MUST be signed and contain a phone number!

• Letters to the Editor MUST arrive by the 23rd of the month!

• We will withhold any letters of an accusatory nature until the accused person has a chance to respond in the same issue!

Email: news@reportertoday.com

Why Love Lives in Seekonk Matters

My name is Kris Lyons, and I’m the President of the nonprofit organization Love Lives in Seekonk. I’m an attorney and have lived Seekonk for the past 22 years with my husband and four children. My three daughters have graduated from Seekonk High School and my son is currently attending the high school. I truly love my hometown and really want to make it a better place for all.

In March of this year, when there was a transphobic and homophobic event that caused a children’s dance to be canceled at the last minute due to threats, I knew I wanted to help the situation. So I connected on Facebook with another mom - Pam Godsoe - and we created a lawn sign campaign to raise money for the Aitken PTO, and we were able to help them recoup the financial losses from the canceled events. From the support of the town, we were able to raise almost $1,500, which was given to the Aiken PTO in April.

Since we had so much support from the community, we expanded to sell stickers and magnets, and plan to donate money to the high school GSA in the fall. We’ve sold over 200 lawn signs, 175 stickers, and 135 magnets, with all the proceeds going to schools and other youth programs here in Seekonk. It’s a completely volunteer organization. Due to the success of our campaign and great support from the community, we decided that Love Lives in Seekonk should be here to stay. We officially became a Massachusetts nonprofit in August.

Love Lives in Seekonk hosted its very first in-person event Sept. 17, with nearly 50 people of all ages getting together to spread some love and kindness (along with glitter and paint). We had some amazing artists come out, and love all the different ways everyone expressed themselves with their kindness rocks. The library and the surrounding areas with rock gardens are being filled with all these amazing creations. This is the first of many events to be put on by Love Lives in Seekonk, and we hope to see more townspeople at future gatherings.

Going forward, Love Lives in Seekonk will advocate for equal access and representation across the community programs in Seekonk, including but not limited to activities targeted toward youth to promote inclusion for all those who identify as LGBTQIA+ and their families. We’ll engage in fundraising activities to support the community programs that further our goals to build a resilient, educated and engaged population that create a healthy community for all our youth. We’ll also engage in and promote involvement in volunteer activities across all aspects of our community, as well as create, sustain and advocate for educational opportunities to support the community youth, including but not limited to those who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community and their families. If you’re interested in getting involved, please follow us on social media. Or you can email us at lovelivesinseekonk@gmail.com.

Kris Lyons, Esq President, Love Lives in Seekonk

Carpenter Museum Response to Glenn Longstreet’s Letter

Thank you, Glen Longstreet for your “Letter to the Editor” of the Rehoboth Reporter dated last month (September 2023). We, at the Carpenter Museum appreciate your interest in collecting stories and memories about our schools and town and request the same.

The Carpenter Museum has recorded the history of Anawan School which was published by the Rehoboth Reporter in March of 2022. In addition to that history, the museum holds a collection pertaining to the one-room schoolhouses as well as the consolidated schools like Anawan School. We have a few stories from those belonging to the WWII generation and earlier. We now can welcome those from the baby-boomer generation.

Rehoboth has not only been a town with a vast history since its incorporation in 1645, but even to this day, generations of families continue to live in town. We recognize the names of people who came before us and honor our past by remembering how it was when we were younger. Details of those who cared about us, our schools, clubs, church, and our town come to our mind with sentiment and endearment motivating us to pass this history along that ultimately created the tightknit community we remember.

At this point in time, Anawan School has been saved. It is destined to become a residence for seniors. Although it is presently in intolerable condition, we are happy to know there is no schedule for it to be razed and hopefully will serve a new purpose while at least maintaining part of its original structure.

For those interested in recording some memories of old Rehoboth or your favorite memory while attending Anawan School, a paragraph or two is indispensable to our town history. It can be collected by the Carpenter Museum. You can mail me with your memories at genealogy@rehobothantiquarian.org or mail them to The Carpenter Museum, 4 Locust Avene, Rehoboth, MA 02769 c/o Lende McMullen.

Thank you again for your letter, Glen!

Lende Ramspott McMullen, Research Manager - E. Otis Dyer, Jr. Research Center Carpenter Museum, 4 Locust Avenue, Rehoboth, MA 02769 www.Genealogy@RehobothAntiquarian.org / 508-252-3031

ON THE COVERS

Rehoboth: Bill Kitchgan’s mums and cows at 141 Cedar Street in Rehoboth. Mums are for sale daily 10:30-4 until they sell out. Cash only.

Seekonk: Swan in Autumn, by Earle Dias Photography. Follow Earle Dias Photography on Facebook and Instagram.

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We welcome all ideas, photos, articles, news releases and notices that affect these areas. We reserve the right to refuse any submission, including classified/display advertising.

Park Commissions 2023 Music Festival

Hello Rehoboth,

This year was the tenth anniversary of the groundbreaking for the Veteran’s Memorial, and it has been an awarding ten years. We have a beautiful Memorial, a walkway with names of Veterans who served our Country and also a section with names of individuals that have not been in the service, benches with the different names of the military around the cannon and last but not least, our Veterans Memorial Sign.

I am saddened that the concert session that was sponsored by the Rehoboth Park Commission has come to an end for this year, BUT, the last concert was a tremendous success featuring Neal and the Vipers along with a Fabulous Fire Work presentation donated by John and Tricia Ferreira.

A great big thank you to Propane Plus for sponsoring the concerts and to the Rehoboth Cultural Council that gave us a grant to help with our expenses. Also, I would like to thank all who donated when we passed the bucket at each concert. It is due to all of the above for us to bring in a variety of talented musicians.

We had a variety of music so that all ages would enjoy. The good news is that they will be back next year with our opening act by Juke Box Heroes. This past summer we increased the number of concerts to 8 and will continue for next year with the first concert being held on Sunday, July 14, 2024.

It MUST INCLUDE the name and phone number of the sender.

We had Shinney Griddle food truck, owner David and Lori Dias of Rehoboth along with Palagi Brothers Ice Cream truck.

I am pleased to say that each year our concerts attendance grows and grows.

It is with great pleasure to speak on behalf of the Rehoboth Parks Commission whose members are me (Kathy Amaral, chair) Jake Kramer (secretary) Sandi Parris, Lissa (Mary) Salois and Kenneth Abrams.

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Looking forward to seeing everyone at next year’s concerts rain or shine. Rain we move to the Council of Aging on Francis Farm Road. Sunshine is always at the Gazebo. Furthermore, we do not just do summer events. We have a display of Christmas Trees that are placed along the walkway at the Gazebo. Letters will be sent out to individual businesses and if you would like to donate to decorate a tree in your name or a loved one you may send a check made to the Rehoboth Parks Commission in the amount of $50.00 and mail to 340 Anawan Street, Rehoboth. Please indicate the name of the person who you would like placed at the base of the tree. Also, if you have someone to decorate the tree, we will need that person’s information in order to contact them when the tree is ready for decorating. Santa will be there, and we will be serving hot chocolate and cookies. So, see you all in December. Keep an eye open for the date of this event.

Sincerely,

Kathy Amaral Chairman, Rehoboth Parks Commission

Music and fireworks at the Gazebo on Redway Plain

From the Clerk

Hello All ~ I hope you are enjoying the beautiful Fall weather in Rehoboth! Speaking of the Fall, I would like to remind all town residents that Town Offices will be closed on Monday, October 9th for Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Also, on Wednesday, November 1st, quarterly real estate taxes are due. Final reminder, as the Board of Selectmen voted on September 11th, there will be a Rehoboth Special Town Meeting on Tuesday, November 7th,

which will be held at 7:00 PM at the Francis Farm-Museum Building; this date also appears on your 2023 Census calendar. Voter check-in will begin at 6:00 PM. Thank you.

November 7, 2023 ~ Special Town Meeting

As mentioned above, on Monday, September 11th, the Board of Selectmen voted to hold a Special Town Meeting on Tuesday, November 7, 2023, beginning at 7:00 PM at the Francis Farm –Museum Building. Voter check-in will begin at 6:00 PM. The last day to register to vote for the upcoming Special Town Meeting will be Saturday, October 28, 2023 between the hours of 8:00AM to 5:00PM at the Rehoboth Town Hall – 340 Anawan Street (Route 118). You may also register to vote anytime prior to the October 28, 2023 deadline by mailing in a voter registration application (copies can be found at the Town Hall, Rehoboth Post Office lobby, Blanding Library, Rehoboth COA/Senior Center or online @ https://www.sec.state.ma.us/ele/elepdf/Voter-reg-mail-in.pdf ).

You may also register to vote 24/7 by going to www.RegisterToVoteMA.com prior to the voter registration deadline of 10-282023 in order to participate in the Town of Rehoboth Special Town Meeting ~ thank you.

2023 Dog License Update

I am pleased we have registered 2,015 dogs so far this year; up 107 registrations from last month ~ thank you all! Unfortunately, we still have 250 dogs that remain unlicensed (142 households). After several reminders from our office to dog owners (January Census mailer; reminder letters in March prior to the annual rabies clinic and April 1st license renewal deadline; postcard reminders in May; monthly reminders in the Rehoboth Reporter since January, a 60-day grace period, reminder phone calls from our Animal Control Officer in August, and final reminder letters sent to each dog owner on August 30th), regrettably, for those dog owners who are still delinquent, on October 2, 2023 $25 non-criminal citations plus $8.53 certified mailing costs have been sent by our office and the Animal Control Officer. As of 10-2-23 a $10 dog license renewal is now $58.53. For those dog owners who have not renewed their dog’s 2023 license, please renew as soon as possible to avoid further action involving the Animal Control Officer. The State authorizes all Animal Control Officers to fine delinquent dog owners $50/day until they renew their dog’s yearly licenses; please do not let that happen to you, pay today. If you are over 70 years old, registration fees are waived; however, you still must keep your dog’s rabies vaccinations current and register your dog every year.

Please renew your dog’s license now. You may pay by mail, at Town Clerk’s Office, or online @ https://permiteyes.us/rehoboth/ publichome.php . We also have the drop box outside of the Town Hall (340 Anawan Street-Route 118) for after-hours drop-offs.

If you no longer have your dog, please call 508-252-6502 Ext. 3109 or Ext. 3112 or you may email TownClerk@RehobothMA.gov to update our records. Please license your dog as soon as possible to avoid further action involving the Animal Control Officer. Yearly dog licensing ensures all dogs in Rehoboth have updated rabies vaccinations. This process is in place to protect us all.

Take Back Your Yard

Laura Schwall

Marriage Intentions/Marriage Certificates

October is one of our busiest months for Marriage Intentions/ Certificates in Rehoboth. Therefore, as a quick reminder of the process. Both parties must come to Town Hall and complete a three-part packet (Marriage Intention, Marriage Supplement, and Marriage Worksheet). Please look for the fillable PDFs and instructions included on the Town Clerk’s website: https://www. rehobothma.gov/town-clerk/pages/marriage-licenses . Please do not sign the documents until we can witness your signature in person. We will also be making a photocopy of your driver’s license. We ask, if possible, please make an appointment prior to coming to Town Hall (508-252-6502 – X3109 or X3112). The parties must provide their social security number and mother’s maiden name. Upon completion of the documents, there is a “State required” 3-day waiting period before the couple may pick up their marriage license. The marriage intention/license is good for 60-days. If you are not married within that timeframe, you must complete the process again. The charge is $20 for the Marriage Intention and $10 for the Marriage Certificate. Note: If you are using an officiant from another state (Rhode Island for example), your officiant must obtain a one-day solemnization certificate from the Secretary of State’s office prior to your wedding day. The application can be found on the Secretary of State’s website: https://www.sec.state. ma.us/OneDayWeb/External/Welcome.aspx , the Rehoboth Town Clerk’s website https://www.rehobothma.gov/town-clerk/pages/ marriage-licenses, or we have copies at Town Hall.

In closing, please stay healthy and safe and have a wonderful October. Jenn, Kerrie and I wish you all a safe and healthy Columbus/Indigenous Peoples’ Day and Halloween! We wish you all a wonderful October. I look forward to chatting with you in November. Please stay healthy and safe.

Sincerely, Laura

Nurse’s Notes

Fall is upon us!! With the beautiful weather we continue to have as I write to you all, and as the days continue to get shorter, please be mindful of our children as they wait for and come on the school buses. Dusk is such a tricky time of day as the sun goes down, and it’s not quite dark yet. We often feel, as pedestrians that there is still enough light for motorists to see us. However, as the driver, this is not the case. So, please be sure to keep those reflective vests handy and be sure our young charges wear them, particularly when out near traffic, during early morning and around dusk. Be extra cautious if you need to be a pedestrian or a cyclist on the road after dark. When headlight meet each other on the road it really impacts the drivers’ ability to see well for those few seconds. It gets tricky at Halloween! Watch for those ghouls and goblins as they threaten a trick or beg for a treat!

In conjunction with the Police, Fire and EMS, the Public Health Nurse will participate in a Public Safety Day on October 7th from 10a-2p at Fire Station #3 @ 104 Pleasant Street, Rehoboth. Please stop by for a lot of fun activities, especially for the youngsters. We’d love to see you all!

My infectious disease monitoring for September continues to see incidence of Lyme Disease occurrence here in Rehoboth, so continue to be mindful as you tackled Fall clean-up. Wear light colored clothing with your socks tucked into your pants while you are outside, and do a quick body check when you come inside. If you find a tick, be sure you can pull the entire tick out. If the tick is embedded, or you are concerned you will not be able to pull the entire tick out, please check in with your PCP. I am here MondayThursday if you need help, but give me a quick call before you head over to 27 Francis Farm Rd. to be sure I am in my office.

We have our first report of a mosquito infected with Eastern Equine Encephalopathy (EEE) here in town, but zero human cases. Continue to be cautious when out and about early in the morning, but especially at dusk, when mosquitos are out looking for victims! Here is a link to mass.gov where you’ll find signs and symptoms and other information about EEE and also West Nile Disease: https://www.mass.gov/guides/eee-in-massachusetts

I have begun to provide in-home ‘flu vaccination, with the support of Anawan Pharmacy. Please call 508-962-4558 or e-mail ghamel@ rehobothma.gov to schedule an in-home vaccination. This service is limited to those who are homebound and their primary caregiver. It is our hope that we will be able to offer ‘flu and COVID vaccination clinic at the Senior Center in the near future. Keep an eye out on the town web site under the Public Health Nurse page for more information as it becomes available.

This year a new vaccination against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) for seniors is available. This severe respiratory virus already has a vaccine against it for small children, however, if you are a senior, please look into getting the vaccine. For more information visit https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd/rsv/public/older-adults.html

I continue to hold BP screening clinics on Monday and Wednesday from 11a-1p at the Senior Center. Our Bereavement and Caregiver Support Groups will begin again starting Wednesday, October 4th. The groups will alternate with each other. The Bereavement Support Group will meet October 4th and 18th and the Caregiver Support Group will meet October 11th and 25th. Both groups will meet at the Senior Center building at 27 Francis Farm Rd from 445p-545p. The groups will run through the beginning of December. Please call to sign up at 508-962-4558 or e-mail ghamel@ rehobothma.gov All are welcome.

Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-4pm; Sat 9-2

The podiatrist will visit the Public Health Nurse’s office on Thursday November 2nd. We’re are fully booked at this time, but please call to go on our cancellation list, 508-962-4558.

We continue to plan speakers for Wednesdays at the Senior Center from 11a-12n, followed by the Wednesday Luncheon ($3) And you guessed! Please call 508-962-4558 or e-mail ghamel@ rehobothma.gov to sign up. It helps us to have enough food! The schedule for the speakers is in the works for October as I write, so please check the Public Health Nurse’s page on the town web site for more information.

Until November, stay safe and well,

Sincerely, Geri

Happy Autumn from the Rehoboth Food Pantry!

As the summer heat subsides and the cooler temperatures begin to settle in, remember that we also offer confidential heating assistance. Call 508-493-1922 for more information.

The Rehoboth Lions will be holding a Town of Rehoboth Food Drive on November 4th. Stay tuned for more info as we get closer to the date!

We will be holding our annual All Volunteer Meeting on Monday, November 6th. Time and location TBD. This is a great time to say “Thank You” to our tireless volunteers for all they do, and provides those interested in helping to learn more about the Pantry.

Special thanks to...

• The Rehoboth Lions for their generous donation

• Cheryl Kalilia and her Dance Group who donated all proceeds (and collected canned goods) from their wonderful event at Goff Hall

• The Rehoboth Soccer Club collected donations on opening day

• The Rehoboth Congregational Church which continues to donate food and funds

• and of course, the wonderful Rehoboth Reporter team

Some reminders: Every Thursday, between 2:30 and 4:30 the pantry opens its doors (located in the rear of the building) to help provide food and other necessities to residents in need.

If you have trouble getting to the pantry, please call us at 508493-1922 so we can arrange a delivery of groceries for you.

For food donations, our generous friends have provided a number of convenient drop off locations to donate:

• Blanding Library – Bay State Road, Rehoboth

• Land-Tek – 477 Winthrop Street, Rehoboth

• Loraine’s Stitch ‘n’ Crafts – 235 Winthrop St. Rehoboth

• Munroe Feed & Supply – 200 Fairview Ave., Rehoboth

• Harvest Tap and Table – 2685 Grand Army of the Republic Hwy,

Swansea, MA 02777

Monetary donations can be made directly on our website https://rehobothfoodpantryma.org/, via PayPal at https:// www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_ id=DR4FU8URSBZU4 or can be mailed to: The Rehoboth Food Pantry 51 Winthrop Street; Rehoboth, MA 02769

Thank You All for keeping Rehoboth such a wonderful town to live in!

https://rehobothfoodpantryma.org/ https://www.facebook.com/RehobothFoodPantry/

The Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving Holiday Gifts

The Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Inc. is a local public charity whose mission is to serve Rehoboth residents by providing Christmas gifts, holiday support, and special occasion needs to our Rehoboth children and their families who are facing challenging times in their lives. In October we will begin taking request for all holiday gifts. For those in need of assistance we have forms available on our website www.rehobothblizzardofgiving.org. These completed forms MUST be received, by November 8th - of course earlier than November 8th would be wonderful! We cannot accept mailed lists that are not on the forms found on our website. We hope to help make your holiday season brighter!

As always, we are grateful for our wonderful Rehoboth community support! Your generosity allows us to continue to serve our Rehoboth families with children in need. As always, we welcome your participation and support of our mission, we are a 501-c3 nonprofit. As in past years, there will be gift request “snowflake” boards located around town and boxes for drop off. Please check our website (www.rehobothblizzardofgiving. org ) for information on Snowflake board locations, gift drop- off locations, and information on adopting children/families. Until

our “snowflakes” are posted in November, the best way to provide support is by providing gift cards and tax-deductible monetary donations. Checks should be made out to “Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Inc.” and mailed to Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Attn: Cathy Edington, 61 Reservoir Ave., Rehoboth, MA 02769. We continue to provide birthday support and Birthday forms are also available on our website. Questions may be directed through our website: www.rehobothblizzardofgiving.org, email: rehobothblizzard@gmail. com or by calling Colleen McBride at (508) 966-8122. All personal information will be kept confidential. We thank everyone for all they do to make this project so successful!

God bless,

Colleen McBride, Cathy Edington, & Cheryl Santos

The Rehoboth Police Department is Taking Back Unwanted Prescription Drugs October 28, 2023

The Rehoboth Police Department will be taking part in the Drug Enforcement Agency’s 25th National Take Back Initiative. This event will take place on October 28th, 2023. Since 2010, this initiative has resulted in over 1.7 million pounds of pharmaceutical waste collected over twenty-four drug take back events in New England. The collected medications will be disposed at several incineration facilities located throughout New England that will convert the pharmaceutical waste into clean renewable energy to be utilized by local communities. Since 2019 the Rehoboth Police Department has collected 446 pounds of pharmaceutical waste.

The DEA and its partners will collect tablets, capsules, patches, and other solid forms of prescription drugs. Liquids (including intravenous solutions), syringes and other sharps, and illegal drugs will not be accepted. DEA will continue to accept vaping devices and cartridges at its drop off locations provided lithium batteries are removed.

Helping people dispose of potentially harmful prescription drugs is just one way DEA is working to reduce addiction and stem overdose deaths.

Learn more about the event and find a local collection site at www.deatakeback. com, or by calling 800-882-9539.

REHOBOTH EVENT IS BEING HELD AT THE POLICE DEPARTMENT 10am-2pm.

Rehoboth Animal Shelter News

Several adult cats, a half-grown pair or kittens, and two dogs are at the Rehoboth Animal Shelter waiting for their forever homes. Patrick is a quiet tabby and white neutered male cat. He would like a quiet place from which to watch the world go by. More information about Patrick and our other adoptable pets is at Petfinder.com. To report a lost or found pet, or to make an appointment, call 508-252-5421 ext. 126.

It’s not too late to fall in love with your new home!

Exciting and Busy Times for the Rehoboth Land Trust!

By Bill Morgan, RLT Vice President

We recently shared the wonderful news that Rehoboth Land Trust (RLT) received a grant to aid in the Phase 1 planning for a project at our 80 Mason Street property. It is one of several active RLT projects, each of which will improve community enjoyment of the natural resources found in Rehoboth.

The Mason Street Conservation Area is an excellent example of a tidal river wetland environment surrounded by productive farmlands, through which the Palmer River meanders within the flood plain as it approaches Narraganset Bay. The grant will enable us to identify the best way to replace degraded culverts, restore native ecology, and provide better kayak access to the river. We will retain an engineering firm to create a plan that will address the maintenance work and provide options for additional elements. For example, seating near the river’s edge will provide an outstanding view of sunsets and excellent birdwatching opportunities. The grant helps fund only the Phase 1 plan. Comple��ng the project will require the time and effort of volunteers and, likely, significant funding; funding that is beyond our usual annual goal.

The Roy Wheaton Horton Preserve comprises over 400 acres and abuts conserved town property. Found within is the Squannakonk Swamp, integral to the history of Rehoboth and home to impressive biological diversity. However, public access is, at best, a challenge. In recent years, RLT has incurred unplanned expenses in excess of $40,000 to create a framework to enhance public access to this tremendous asset. We are now able to begin planning trails and parking to accomplish this, including the design, permitting, and construction of a wetlands crossing.

The Reynolds Avenue Conservation Area contains tributaries of the Segreganset River on course to the Taunton River. This property, which lies among the highest elevations in Rehoboth, is surrounded by undeveloped land, giving visitors the feeling of a much larger preserve. This newer asset of RLT presently has only a single trail, and we are eager to expand so visitors can experience even more of this forested landscape. We have engaged a cartographer to create an interim trail map until more trails are constructed.

At the Ephraim Hunt Ministerial Land, RLT members Michael Zeug and Lisa Reigel graciously donated a large and very sturdy picnic table. A team of volunteers, led by Scot Martin and Nick Carruthers, delivered and placed it in the pine grove (pictured). We are also grateful to John and Cynthia Rourke for multiple repairs of the boardwalk!

Thanks to the generosity of folks like you who are helping protect Rehoboth’s natural beauty, we are almost a third of the way to our 2023 fundraising goal of $30,000. Because we do not receive town funding, grants and donations make a huge difference in preserving land and maintaining trails.

Get involved by visiting our website www.RehobothLandTrust. org and completing our talent survey. We are always open to new members, new volunteers, and new ideas. Donations by local businesses of materials and/or equipment deployed can also be timely and extremely helpful! Rehoboth Land Trust is a nonprofit corporation established under Internal Revenue code 501(c)(3).

All are welcome to visit our public properties. Little can improve the quality of life as much as time spent in the natural world. Thank you very much and we hope to see you on the trails soon!

J & L Landscaping & Garden Center

363 Taunton Ave., (Rt. 44) Seekonk, MA • (508) 399-8947

Now Budding Hardy Mums, Asters and Montaux Daisies

• Pumpkins, all sizes • Bushel Baskets • Witches • Terra Cotta

Pots & Hanging Mums • Hay Bales • Corn Stalks • Fall Flags

• Wicker Baskets • Fall Bows • Scarecrows • Wreaths

Available for Delivery or Pick-up:

• Mulch • Stone • Screened Loam • Pool - Mason Sand • Stone Dust

SeaSoned Wood (cord-1/2 cord) Pick-up or Delivery

WE CARRY Cobblestones - All Sizes

• Grass Seed • Fall Fertilizer • Pellitized Lime • Trees • Shrubs • Perennials

Slice Seeding & Aerating Service Available.

Hours: Mon-Sat 8AM-5PM, Sun 8AM-4PM

Looking Back… to Old-Fashioned Thanksgivings

By Phyllis Dupere

Many of us heard the story about the First Thanksgiving from family members and in the lower grades at school. The Pilgrims and the Native Americans dined together on wild turkey, fish, ducks and geese, venison, corn, onions and chestnuts. Fruits and berries were a tasty dessert. It wasn’t a quick run to the grocery store for this meal to come to fruition. After a successful 1621 growing season, all gathered for a three day “festival” of sorts, knowing that they had a sufficient harvest, large enough to celebrate and still have ample provisions to last through the following spring. It did take a community to prepare the foods. Was it a feast or just a simple meal shared by many thankful people? I think it was a little of each.

Moving ahead to 1863, President Abraham Lincoln announced that the first “official” Thanksgiving holiday would be celebrated on Thursday, November 26, 1863. On Thanksgiving Day 1924, Macy’s Christmas Parade (now known as the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade) offered marching bands, floats, and animals. Santa was in the last float, symbolically bringing in the Christmas season. The parade has grown in size and its route has been altered slightly since its beginning. Currently, the route is approximately two and one-half miles long, terminating in front of Macy’s flagship department store on 34th Street at Herald Square. Santa, now with a bit more fanfare and confetti, still brings in the Christmas season.

Dedication of New Pickleball Court in Memory of Dylan Quinn

Sit-Down Clam Boil Fundraiser & Raffle

Scan the QR Code to Buy Tickets

Raffle donations appreciated! Beer, water & soda for sale at event.

Friday, October 20 7:00 PM Seekonk Gun Club 61 Reed Street, Rehoboth, MA 02769

Date: Time: Place: Facebook: @RehobothPeopleHaveaHeart

$35 Per Person

For tickets, information or to make a donation, please call Rob Johnson at (508) 243-4160 or message us on Facebook

Website: rehobothpeoplehaveaheart com

The Town of Rehoboth’s new Pickleball Court at Francis Farm was dedicated with a tree planting in memory of Dylan Quinn on September 30th. The celebration was attended by Dylan’s friends and family, as well as Representative Steven Howitt, Selectmen Rob Johnson and George Solas. Photos by Earle Dias.

Rehoboth Ramblings

by Leslie Patterson

Can You Get There from Here?

Wouldn’t anyone in Rhode Island or Southeastern Massachusetts prefer to fly from T.F. Green Airport rather than Logan, given a reasonable choice? This was the question I asked myself as I read Mark Patinkin’s Sept. 24 column in the Providence Journal about a new ad promoting the RI airport. It seems that there’s a new video ad promoting the virtues of Green over Logan. Mark calls the video “edgy” but I’d use the British slang “cheeky” myself.

Anyway, I wasn’t sure who exactly this ad is aimed at. Doesn’t everyone hate going to Logan, even people in Boston? The traffic getting there is extremely stressful and the parking can be difficult and expensive. This isn’t a secret. I assume the ad is aimed not just at people in this area but to those living in the western and southern suburbs of Boston who might not have considered Green before.

What the ad leaves out are these crucial questions: Is Green offering any direct, non-stop flights to your destination and/or do you want an international flight? Sometimes a big international airport like Logan is really the only choice. There have also been times over the years where flights out of Providence to the Midwest, for

example, cost considerably more than flights out of Logan.

I was also amused by another article in the Journal this summer announcing that the most popular destinations from Rhode Island, in addition to Florida, were Baltimore and DC. I assume this means that a large number of passengers are traveling on Southwest Airlines (a major carrier at Green) and they need to switch planes at those hub airports to get to their destination.

Last year we flew on the new budget airline Breeze, which offers direct flights to many of the more medium-sized cities that had not been served by flights from Green previously. We took a direct flight to Columbus and it was great getting there so quickly. Now I’m checking their schedules and it seems that a lot of flights were part of a summer schedule. They are at present only offering a dozen or so destinations from Providence, and Ohio airports aren’t included. Nor are flights to Los Angeles, which were offered this summer. I would think there would still be a big demand for direct West Coast flights from Providence.

So, I’d say Breeze is worth checking out, but it’s kind of a long shot whether you will find a flight you want, when you want, especially if it’s not summer. Few of these flights are offered on a daily basis. It’s a budget airline so there are additional charges for this, that, and the other thing, but they do seem to have a lot of sales.

I haven’t done a survey on people’s travel experiences but I’ve been on two round trips from Green this year (both on Southwest) and both went well, I’m happy to say. Nice to get lucky, for a change. Neither trip was anywhere near any holidays. I won’t do that anymore. It did seem that the airports are

much more crowded, and going through security at Green has gotten to be more of a hassle than it was. They keep promising new restaurant options at Green too but the choices were slim as of June. I hope it’s better by now. If it’s not, be sure to bring snacks with you.

My daughter tells me that going through security at the Sea-Tac airport when returning home from a recent trip to Seattle was really a long, drawn-out process so it was good to get there quite early. This is true of all airports these days. Again, she quickly found out that there are no good ways to fly from RI to Seattle but there are convenient direct flights daily on Alaska Airlines at Logan.

So, however much you hate the ordeal of getting there, sometimes Logan is the only reasonable choice, even if the five hours spent flying all the way back from the Pacific to the Atlantic is followed by another hour in the car just to get from the airport to the suburbs. Whenever I think of flying coast to coast in a few hours, I always think of Lewis and Clark and then of the pioneers on the Oregon Trail in their covered wagons. This really puts airline inconveniences in perspective.

By Joe Siegel

The addition of Freetown to the Bristol-Plymouth Regional Vocational Technical School District could mean a reduction in the amount of money Rehoboth residents will have to pay for construction of the new Bristol-Plymouth High School.

Last April, voters rejected a debt exclusion, which is a temporary tax increase, to pay for the town’s share of the $305 million project.

Selectman Michael Deignan explained the town would have to pay between $550,000 and $600,000 annually. “There really is no way for us to absorb that in the town budget without making significant cuts to town services,” Deignan said. “We are obligated to pay that debt service to Bristol/Plymouth. If we don’t pass (the debt exclusion), we’re going to be in a world of hurt financially.”

The building project was approved in March 2022. Although the project was rejected in Rehoboth, there were enough votes for pas-

sage in the member communities which at the time included Berkley, Bridgewater, Dighton, Middleborough, Raynham, and Taunton.

In an August 21 letter from the state’s Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) to Dr. Alexander Magalhaes, the Superintendent-Director of Bristol-Plymouth Regional Technical School District, Commissioner Jeffrey Riley stated: “I am pleased to approve the amended (regional) agreement and the enlargement of the District to include the Town of Freetown. The effective date of the admission of the Town of Freetown to the district will be July 1, 2024.”

“That’s going to change our formula,” Selectmen Chair Skip Vadnais said. “That’s going to change what we may or may not owe.”

Vadnais intends to ask the town’s Chief Financial Officer to review the DESE letter and calculate the financial impact on residents. “It should be a reduction because there’s more people that are sharing in the capital and transportation (services),” Vadnais added.

The Massachusetts School Building Authority provided authorization for a Project Funding Agreement for the Bristol-Plymouth project in September 2021. The agreement includes reimbursement of 62.25 percent of eligible project costs up to a maximum reimbursement amount of $125, 569, 759 toward construction of a modern Bristol-Plymouth school facility.

Motorists Urged to Slow Down

By Joe Siegel

Selectman Lenny Mills is encouraging motorists to drive a little bit slower on the town’s roads, especially in the area of Beckwith Middle School and Palmer River Elementary School.

“The Police Department is extremely busy with road issues,” Mills said. “I’m urging the citizens of Rehoboth to try to slow down, please take safety in mind, please remember schools started last week and we cannot by law, put (speed) cameras on Route 44.”

Police officers are stationed at the schools in the morning and the afternoon.

“It’s very dangerous not to monitor that area. Speeding is unbelievable,” Mills added. “Either distracted drivers or people just not paying attention. We’re getting more and more accidents and more and more incidents on the road. Let’s try to be considerate to our fellow neighbors. It’s a serious problem. As the town continues to grow, we’re going to be challenged more and more.”

Chairman Skip Vadnais said delivery trucks parking on the streets posed a safety hazard. “The answer is not to widen our roads,” Vadnais said. “It’s to take a look at what’s going on. Fedex made a determination that their vehicles can not pull into a driveway. We have determinations that you can’t park on a blind corner so maybe we need to take a look at how people are using our streets.”

The Seekonk Scene

From the Clerk

October starts the fall season with a chill in the air, trees turning colors, apple picking and pumpkins to let us know that Halloween will arrive soon. And let’s not forget there’s a long weekend as well. Please remember that Town Hall will be closed on October 9th in observance of Columbus Day/Indigenous People Day. The Fall Town Meeting will be held on Monday, November 13 @7pm at Seekonk High School auditorium. The Town Moderator, myself and sound technicians will be checking the sound system before the meeting to make sure we do not have any sound issues. Please try to attend this important meeting as town meetings are designed to allow residents a voice and a vote in how our town is governed. For a preview of the warrant please see the town website, it will be posted several weeks before the meeting.

As a reminder there will be a Special Election on Tuesday October 24 to see if the Town of Seekonk and 10 other communities will approve 285.9 million for the building of a new Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School. The other communities are; Sherborn, Medfield, Walpole, Millis, Medway, Norfolk, Wrentham, Plainville, Franklin, North Attleboro. The Town of Seekonk’s website has a link on the front page directing you to the Tri-County website. There you will be able to read about the project in detail and see a rendering of what it will look like. Voting will take place at the High School; 261 Arcade Ave. and voting hours are 12 Noon- 8PM. There will not be any early voting but there will be absentee ballot voting. So, if you are going to be out of town and want to vote please fill out an absentee ballot application and get it to the Town Clerk’s office and we will send a ballot to you. As always with absentee ballots please remember to factor in the mail time, the ballot must reach us before the election in order to count. The results of the election will be available through the Town Clerk’s office as it is a Yes or No vote the results will be known that night or the next day. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to call our office. 508-336-2920.

Please see below a list of important dates and elections that will take place in 2024:

• February 24: Last day to Register to Vote for Presidential Primary

• Feb. 27-Mar.1: Early Voting, during normal business hours at Town Hall

• March 5: PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARY

• March 22: Last Day to Register to vote for Annual Town Election

• March 25-30: Early voting during normal business hours at Town Hall

• April 1: ANNUAL TOWN ELECTION

• TBA: Last day to register to vote for the State Primary

• TBA: Early voting during business hours at Town Hall

• TBA: STATE PRIMARY

• Oct. 26: Last day to register to vote for PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION

• TBA: Early voting during normal business hours at Town Hall

• Nov. 5: PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION

Vital statistics update: so far this year, the Town Clerk’s Office has registered and processed 30 Birth Certificates, 100 Marriage Intentions, 62 Death Certificates and 10 new Business Certificates. Just a friendly reminder taxes are due November 1st. Fiscal 2024 trash bills are due October 19th.

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Florice Craig

Nomination papers for town positions will be available to pick up December 15th. A list of positions will be printed in the November issue of the Reporter. Please call the Town Clerk’s office if you have questions about what seats are available and the process to get on the ballot.

The Town Clerk’s office is in the process of setting up a payment system so we will be able to accept online payments and credit card payments at our counter. We know this will be helpful to everyone.

We are always thinking of new ways to help streamline our processes in this office. We are also looking to purchase Poll Pads. Poll Pads are a paperless voter check-in process which would replace the outdated paper check-in which often causes long lines at the polls. We are hoping that will be approved and we will be able use the Poll Pads for the State Primary in September and the Presidential Election in November.

Enjoy October, have a fun and safe Halloween!

Florice Craig and Lorraine Sorel

The Seekonk Cultural Council Seeks Funding Proposals

The Seekonk Cultural Council has set an October 17th deadline for organizations, schools, and individuals to apply for grants that support cultural activities in the community.

According to Council spokesperson Bill Clark, these grants can support a variety of artistic projects and activities in Seekonk -- including exhibits, festivals, field trips, short-term artist residencies, or performances in schools, workshops, and lectures.

The Seekonk Cultural Council is part of a network of 329 Local Cultural Councils serving all 351 cities and towns in the Commonwealth. The LCC Program is the largest grassroots cultural funding network in the nation, supporting thousands of community-based projects in the arts, sciences and humanities every year. The state legislature provides an annual appropriation to the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency, which then allocates funds to each community.

This year, the Seekonk Cultural Council will distribute about $9200 in grants. Previously funded projects include:

• Entertaining and Interactive programs for elementary schools

• Support for drama presentations for our Middle School

• Funding for educational and creative projects for our High School

• Inspiring programs for children at our Public Library

• Performances and thoughtful talks for adults at our Public Library

Music and classes at our Senior Center

For local guidelines and complete information on the Seekonk Cultural Council, contact Bill Clark, Chairperson at brotherb2@ comcast.net. Application forms and more information about the Local Cultural Council Program are available online at www.massculture.org.

Doorways Gets a Lift from the Knights of Columbus

The Doorways food pantry literally “got a lift” from the Seekonk Council of the Knights of Columbus with the donation of a pallet jack to assist in the unloading of the truck that picks up food from the Boston Food Bank. The truck travels to Boston twice a month and returns with 4,000-5,000 pounds of food each time. A handful of sturdy volunteers unload the truck and bring the food inside for shelving; it is heavy work and the pallet jack will lighten that load. Several members of the Knights of Columbus are among the volunteers who unload the truck (including Marty O’Laughlin, Ralph Tomei and Rolland St. Pierre, among others). We thank the Knights for their generous gift of the pallet jack, and we thank all our volunteer unloaders for the irreplaceable gift of their time and effort. Your contribution is essential to our mission to provide food security in our town. God bless you for your help.

Pictured L to R: Truck unloaders Marty O’Laughlin, Ralph Tomei, Rolland St. Pierre, Robert Karewa

Seekonk Mourns Death of Police Officer

By Joe Siegel

The Town of Seekonk is mourning the death of Patrolwoman Kourtny DeForitis following an accident early Saturday morning in Somerset. DeForitis, a Taunton resident, was 28 years old.

The Seekonk Police Department made the announcement of DeForitis’ passing Sunday on their Facebook page: “It is with the deepest and most profound sadness that Chief David Enos announces the untimely passing of Patrolwoman Kourtny DeForitis. During the early morning hours of September 9, 2023, Ptlw. DeForitis was involved in an off-duty fatal motor vehicle crash, as a passenger on a motorcycle in Somerset, MA. Ptlw. DeForitis served with the Seekonk Police Department for just under three years, having attended the Cape Cod Municipal Police Academy in 2021. Since that time, she has been assigned to the Patrol Division and was outstanding in her various roles as a community outreach officer.”

“Kourtny had a particular fondness for the youth of Seekonk and could be found playfully interacting with them in the schools and at community events, usually with a bright smile on her face and a contagious laugh. The men and women of the Seekonk Police Department offer their sincere condolences to Ptlw. DeForitis’ family and friends, as we also mourn the loss of one of our own. Rest in peace badge 3334, we’ll take the watch from here.”

Hundreds of comments were left in response to the post.

“An incredible loss for her family and our community,” read one comment. “May she rest in peace and her memory be a blessing.”

Officers from the East Providence Police Department offered their condolences and placed flowers around DeForitis’ cruiser parked on Taunton Avenue Sunday.

Enos expressed his gratitude to the Community, Town Administration, Town Departments, and local Police Departments for “the outpouring of support towards Kourtny’s Family and this Police Department. The department is focused on helping Kourtny’s family get through this tragic event and see that Kourtny is remembered for the great work she did as a Police Officer and person.”

*Sustainable Seekonk*

The Seekonk Recycling Committee would like to remind residents of all the great recycling and sustainability programs and resources we have available in town:

America Recycles Day @ Seekonk Public Library-the committee will be hosting an event at the library on Thursday November 9th 6:30pm featuring recycling trivia, information and raffles! Bring an item you’re not sure if you can recycle.

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

Adopt-a-Drain Program- the committee will reward you with a free bag of town trash bags when you commit to keeping a local drain clear near your home. Just fill out the form online!

Textile Recycling Bins- there are Bay State Textile collection bins at the DPW center & at all the schools. You can deposit used clothing, sheets, towels, shoes and more at these bins-even if they’re stained, ripped or worn out! Nothing wet or moldy, please!

Terracycle Recycling- the committee is collecting hundreds of everyday items that would normally end up in the trash because they cannot be recycled traditionally. Brands partner with Terracycle to offer these free programs to recycle items like toothbrushes, deodorant, air fresheners, coffee bags and more! Find the current list at Sustainable Seekonk on Facebook.

Composting- the DPW yard allows for drop off of yard waste for composting, but residents can also sign up for curbside compost collection through Bootstrap Compost-which collects all household food waste, even meat and bones. They offer weekly & bi-weekly pickups and you can also get finished compost back for your garden!

Batteries & Bulbs- did you know that the #1 cause of fires in trash collection programs is rechargeable batteries? The DPW has a collection bin for batteries-including cell phone batteries and other rechargeables or hazardous batteries. They also accept fluorescent light bulbs-including CFL bulbs and tubes. These should never go in your curbside bins!

Plastic Bag Ban- in 2019 the town adopted a plastic bag ban that requires businesses to offer thicker reusable bags or paper bags to customers instead of thin single use bags. Using your own sturdy bags helps save trips back & forth and keeps plastic bags off of our roads & out of the waterways.

Recycling Tip of The Month: takeout food containers-especially those made of styrofoam or black plastic-are not recyclable and should be put in your trash. Only jugs, bottles and jars should go in the recycling!

OWNERS: Tom & Julie Clark

The obituary also states: “She was able to fulfill her dream of becoming a police officer and earned her badge in Seekonk in 2021. Kourtny loved camping in Maine, and spending time at places like Papoose Pond with her friends and family. She will be remembered for her vibrant energy and dedication to others, with an infectious laugh to draw them in. Kourtny leaves her brother Brandon DeForitis, and step father John Depina from East Taunton. She is also survived by her aunt Karolyn (Swisher) Parsons and her husband Garrett Parsons from Beverly, as well as her little cousins Xavier Parsons, Deacon Parsons, and Eli Parsons whom she loved dearly. She also leaves her uncle William Tremblay and his wife Cheryl Tremblay from Maine, as well as her cousin Joe Tremblay who was like an older brother to her. Kourtny also leaves behind many friends that will miss her dearly.”

Officers from the East Providence Police Department offered their condolences and placed flowers around DeForitis’ cruiser parked on Taunton Avenue Sunday.

Patrolwoman Kourtny DeForitis

Seekonk Animal Shelter News

Hey, Jude!

Jude is a stunning, young neutered male, Pit Bull mix who has been with us for 2 months. He enjoys long walks and car rides. Jude will be best in a home with no other animals or small children. He is a very strong dog but also quite the goof ball. Jude is current on his rabies and distemper vaccines and was tested negative for heartworm disease. If you would like to meet Jude please call for an appointment - Seekonk Animal Shelter, 100 Peck Street, Seekonk MA 508-336-6663.

Town Administrator Concerned About Tri County Project

By Joe Siegel

Seekonk Town Administrator Shawn Cadime said he was concerned about the proposed Tri County Regional Vocational High School project, which will cost $280 million. A special election will be held on October 24 from 12 to 8pm. If the project is approved, taxpayers will have to pay $1.1 million annually over a 30 year period.

Seekonk is one of 11 communities that make up the Tri County school system. The project moves forward with a simple majority of votes. Cadime explained if a debt exclusion is not approved, $1.1 million will have a “significant impact into our operational budget.”

“It will impact police, fire, DPW, the schools,” Cadime said. “The (new) building is going to be capped at 1000 students. Right now, (Tri County) only has enough room for 900 students. We’ll have additional students who will have the opportunity to go to Tri County and will impact the assessment we have on a yearly basis.”

Cadime’s comments were made at the September 20 Quad Board meeting with the Select Board, School Committee, and Finance Committee. Cadime also provided updates on some major building projects, including a new Department of Public Works facility. $1.5 million has already been awarded for an Office of the Project Manager and for designer services. Cadime said a November 2024 Town Meeting vote is necessary to go ahead with the project, which could cost $20 million. The estimated cost of building a South End Fire Station is $8 million. A Town Meeting vote would be required to approve funding.

A feasibility study for the Seekonk Public Library will be conducted and a cost estimate will be provided for the cost of renovating the current facility on Newman Avenue. “We’ve got some HVAC issues and other structural issues that need to be addressed,” Cadime noted. Voters at an October 2022 special town meeting rejected plans to build a new $24 million public library.

Another project is the Medeiros Family Farm. A committee has been formed and will soon be meeting to discuss uses for that property. The purchase was approved at last May’s Town Meeting.

$1.7 million worth of renovations for the Seekonk Senior Center at 540 Arcade Avenue are also nearing completion.

Hard Choices for Seekonk Schools

By Joe Siegel

Members of the Select Board, School Committee, and Finance Committee gathered September 20 for a discussion about the future of Seekonk Public Schools. Colliers was hired to conducts a Conditions Assessment of all school facilities in the summer of 2022. The firm identified a need of $42.3 million including adjustments for inflation and additional projects.

The town’s student population is expected to increase by a whopping 27 percent in the next 10 years. “Seekonk is clearly a place where people want to live,” said Derek Osterman, the Director of Project Management Services for Colliers. “They want to go to school here, your test scores are very strong within the region and throughout the state.”

For Aitken Elementary School, Colliers identified $3.4 million in needs, including a roof replacement for “B-Wing,” replace rubber gym floor, and replace “A-Wing” corridor doors. The building has 28 classrooms. The enrollment for the 2022-2023 school year was 525. The maximum capacity is 575. For the 2025-2026 school year, the anticipated enrollment is 566, an increase of 41 students. As a result, some classrooms will have to be converted from special uses like art classes, into regular classrooms.

For Martin Elementary School, $6 million in needs were identified, including repaving parking lots and roadways, roof replacement, and long-term HVAC upgrades. The building has 24 classrooms with a maximum capacity of 550 students. Enrollment for the 2022-2023 school year was 456. Projected enrollment for the 2029-2030 school year is 519. As a result, the music and art rooms will have to be converted into regular classrooms and the fifth grade will have more than 25 students per classroom.

$15 million worth of needs were identified for Hurley Middle School, including an HVAC system, roof replacement, upgrade of the electrical service and distribution panels, exterior masonry, and work on the parking areas. Although enrollment is 515 students for the 2023-2024 school year, enrollment is expected to increase to 630 students for the 2032-2033 school year. Colliers says maximum capacity for Hurley is 600 students.

Colliers identified $17.9 million in needs for Seekonk High School. These include roof replacement, renovation of locker rooms, upgrade HVAC system, upgrade toilet rooms, refinish/replace gym floor, and cosmetic improvements. Enrollment is 533 for the current school year, but Colliers anticipates growth to 703 students for the 2032-2033 school year.

“You can make the capital improvements to maintain the buildings, but you will experience overcrowding from middle school on down,” Osterman noted.

Some committee members expressed skepticism about the projected enrollment figures. “These numbers should probably be taken with a grain of salt,” said Kyle Juckett, noting there were fewer enrollments at the elementary level than in past years.

Options including reconfiguring some grades or constructing new schools. The cost of constructing a new middle school for Grades 5 through 8 would cost $146 million. The cost of constructing a new middle school and converting Hurley into an intermediate school would cost $213.7 million. The cost of constructing an addition to Hurley Middle School would cost $111.4 million.

Michael Brady, a member of the finance committee, said it would be “foolhardy” to let the schools “deteriorate.”

Jude is ready for his furever home.

“I’m not opposed to building a new (school) at a reasonable cost,” Brady continued. “I just want to make sure that when we ask (residents) for millions of dollars that we can justify their trust in us.”

“In my professional opinion, we should use the studies we have from the last ten years to triangulate data about what will be the most efficient and stable long term option for meeting both our space needs and our budgetary needs as a town,” School Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell said on September 14. “I continue to look at a school building project of any sort as part of a larger town plan that includes other departments’ needs and what will best serve residents across the community.”

An October 24 special election will be held for a new $280 million facility at TriCounty Regional Vocational Technical High School in Franklin. Losing students to TriCounty remains a concern. “We’ve got to be equally competitive in that market,” Kidwell said, noting she was “absolutely focused on providing the best high school education and community experience we can for our (Grades) 9 through 12 students. Dr. (William) Whalen, our leadership team, and I agree that Seekonk High School should be a strong choice for any student in town, and we are continuing to build the programs and experiences to support that outcome.”

The entire meeting can be viewed on TV9 at various times.

Seekonk Fire Department Well Staffed, TA Says

By Joe Siegel

Town Administrator Shawn Cadime said the Seekonk Fire Department is well staffed.

Cadime said Wednesday the department has a new Chief (Sandra Lowery), a new Secretary, and two new Captains.

$4,264,164 was allocated for the Fire Department in the FY’2024 budget. That figure reflects a 7.4 percent increase over FY’ 23. The bulk of that amount is designated for salaries – 45 full time employees (1 Chief, 1 Deputy Chief, 2 Captains, 8 Lieutenants, and 33 Fire Fighters).

The Deputy Fire Chief position has been vacant for three years. Cadime said it “doesn’t make any sense” to put a new person into that job until the Captain and the Fire Chief “has a better understanding of the operational standpoint so that she can figure out what the actual need is for a deputy.”

Last month, Seekonk Firefighters Local 1931 posted the following on their Facebook page: “The men and women of the Seekonk Fire Department show up every day to ensure the health and safety of the people of Seekonk. They deserve a fully staffed and fully qualified department. The Seekonk Fire Department has lost 10 qualified people to other departments in the past 5 years; 6 in this past year alone. The hiring of individuals who need to attend both the fire academy and paramedic school is a long road, which can take up to 5 years. Retention of qualified persons is necessary for proper functioning of a career fire department.”

Cadime said the town has committed to increased staffing levels in the Fire Department.

“We added five new positions in FY’24, we’re going to continue to do that in FY’25,” Cadime noted. “We allocated positions from (Department of Public Works) over to the Fire Department. I think we’ve addressed the concerns collectively.”

Cadime said the Fire Department was probably the second highest increased department next to the School department based on warrant articles and other appropriations.

“I don’t think you’ll find another department that has increases as much as the fire department,” Cadime added.

Seekonk Select Board Votes to Remove Dam

By Joe Siegel

The Seekonk Select Board voted to remove the dam at the former site of the Attleboro Dye Works, situated next to the former Attleboro Dyeing and Finishing site off Maple Avenue.

“The dam right now does not serve any purpose,” said Dave Cabral, the Department of Public Works Director.

Cabral noted the condition of the dam had been evaluated as poor. The cost of repairing the dam was $1.8 million. Removing the dam entirely will cost $1 million.

The Office of Dam Safety is requiring either rehabilitation or removal.

“I think the natural waterway is pretty much what it is,” Chairman Michael Healy said at the board’s September 13 meeting. ‘That site is not going to be redeveloped for industrial use.”

The 105,000-square-foot building on the site caught fire on May 1, 2012. The property consists of three parcels, including the dam and three industrial settling ponds, and abuts the Ten Mile River. Asbestos was found in samples taken from the burned building debris. There were also reports mixed and discharged metals and petroleum waste had seeped into settling ponds. Twelve metal drums containing hazardous waste were removed by the federal Environmental Protection Agency in the fall of 2016.

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The following year, the Town was successful in securing $450,000 grants from both the MassDevelopment and U.S. EPA Brownfields programs to complete assessment activities over a three year period. In 2019, the Town pursued a tax-taking of the abandoned site to facilitate cleanup efforts. According to Town Administrator Shawn Cadime: “In 2021, the Town was awarded an additional $750,000 in grant funding from state and federal partners to remediate all three contaminated wastewater lagoons, moving the Town one step closer toward site development and revitalization of the Baker’s Corner neighborhood.”

Last June, Sage Winter, a landscape architect for GreenmanPedersen, Inc. (GPI), told the Select Board that removing the dam would result in a more channelized riverbed as well as the development of a pathway along the water.

Seekonk Focus on Economic Development

By Joe Siegel

Seekonk Select Board Chair Michael Healy believes the town needs to focus on economic development.

“We need to do something with the whole Route 6 corridor,” Healy said at the board’s September 27 meeting. “We have a number of properties that are empty down there. We just lost one probably of the bigger restaurants down there so you have that whole corner that’s empty. We need to find a way to find a consultant or someone who can help us figure out new development into town that will keep the town going for years to come.”

Healy noted there will be changes made to the zoning bylaws to make the town more appealing to developers. The lack of sewers has also been an obstacle to development.

Healy said many of the big box stores and restaurants are losing customers due to the poor economy. He would like to see build-

ings with retail shops on the ground level and apartments on the second level. “That would help us out with our affordable housing if we do it right,” Healy added. “I really think that’s what we need to start looking at.”

Former TV 9 Board Members File Discrimination Complaint

By Joe Siegel

Two former TV9 Board Members have filed complaints with the state’s Commission Against Discrimination in Boston. Deborah Hoch and Kristen Montgomery both allege they were discriminated against by Seekonk Cable Access, on the basis of Age, Sex, Retaliation.

Hoch, in her complaint filed on August 24, noted she had been “an elected, unpaid member” of TV9’s Board of Directors since 2008. “I believe Respondent has discriminated against me based on my age and sex by being subjected to disparate treatment,” Hoch wrote. “I also believe Respondent retaliated against me for rebuffing age-based comments when it removed me from the Board.”

Hoch stated the Board was made up of six individuals, three were men and three were women. The Board Members’ ages ranged from 50s to early 70s.

Montgomery joined the board in December 2022.

At a meeting held on August 7, a temporary Board of Directors was installed. David Saad was named President. Dressler was named Vice-President/Treasurer, and Doreen Taylor was named as Clerk. The other board members include Peter Hoogerzeil and TV9 personality Jeffrey Starr Mararian.

On August 16, Hoch and Montgomery told the Select Board they endured harassment and threats by male board members. Montgomery called the environment at TV9 “toxic” and “hostile.” Hoch claimed she had been “illegally removed” from her position at TV9 at a meeting held on July 24.

Hoch said she had not been informed about the meeting and was out of town when the vote occurred.

Saad dismissed Hoch and Montgomery’s allegations, noting there was never any harassment.

A meeting will be held in December for the purpose of presenting the TV-9 membership with a new set of bylaws. The board will meet multiple times in the next few months to make recommendations. A new board will also be elected. All TV 9 subscribers are eligible to vote.

On the website, tv9seekonk.com, the station’s mission statement reads: TV9 Seekonk is a non-profit public access TV corporation governed by a 7 member board of publicly elected directors. Day to day operation is managed by the Executive Director. TV9 Seekonk is dedicated to providing a professional quality production facility for access users to freely express and share unique ideas via original programming with the Seekonk community.

People In The News

World War 2 Vet to Serve as Parade Marshal

By Joe Siegel

World War 2 veteran William Soule will serve as Parade Marshal for the Seekonk Veterans Day observance on November 11.

In addition, Soule is celebrating his 100th birthday one week earlier. What may seem like a big deal to some people doesn’t faze him one bit.

“It’s just a number,” Soule said of the milestone.

Soule is a lifelong town resident. He has a son who lives in Maine.

Recalling his military experience, Soule knew his friends were all signing up to fight in World War II. “I was 17 years old, almost 18,” Soule recalled. “I wanted to volunteer. My mother had to sign so I could get in.” Soule enlisted in the United States Army and went through his basic training in Texas. He served in the 734 Field Artillery.

Soule was part of the invasion of Normandy. The D-Day operation of June 6, 1944, brought together the land, air, and sea forces of the allied armies in what became known as the largest amphibious invasion in military history. Fighting by the brave soldiers, sailors, and airmen of the allied forces western front, and Russian forces on the eastern front, led to the defeat of German Nazi forces. On May 7, 1945, German General Alfred Jodl signed an unconditional surrender at Reims, France.

“I got a lot of memories,” Soule noted. “We landed on Omaha Beach and after we got inland, we started using our artillery pieces and we used them all the way across France. We did the Battle of Normandy and then we went all the way across France. We were called up to go to the Battle of the Bulge. When that was through, we went back into Germany and then the war ended.”

The Battle of the Bulge in the Ardennes region of Belgium was Adolph Hitler’s last major offensive against the Western Front. Hitler’s aim was to split the Allies in their drive toward Germany. The German troops’ failure to divide Britain, France, and America with the Ardennes offensive paved the way to victory for the Allies. The battle, which lasted six weeks, proved to be the costliest ever fought by the U.S. Army, which suffered over 100,000 casualties.

After their triumph over the Germans, the mood among Soule’s fellow soldiers was one of jubilation.

“We were all excited to get back home,” Soule said. “I had a girlfriend that wrote me a letter every day. When they had mail call, I had a stack of letters. It was probably once a month. You had to take time out to read them.”

William Soule

Soule’s girlfriend soon became his wife. They were married for 64 years until her passing in 2011. After the war, Soule attended the Rhode Island School of Design for a short period and later worked at a manufacturing company for several years.

Soule reunited with his friends from the military a few months after returning home. “We had a reunion show and that was it. I never saw them again.” However, Soule did keep in contact with a few other veterans, mainly those in New England.

Soule has maintained a positive attitude through the hardships of life. “You’ve got to live day to day and hope for the best,” Soule said. “But you never know from one day to the next what’s going to happen.”

As for the secrets to a long life, Soule offers some practical advice. “Keep in good health. Keep busy. Keep your feet on the floor and make sure you walk around all the time. Be a good citizen.”

Lisa Daft, DMD & Associates and Gian Calandrelli, DMD Announce their New Partnership - Lisa Daft, DMD & Gian Calandrelli, DMD, PC

The practice that has been servicing the surrounding community since 1973 is excited to announce the new partnership of Dr. Lisa Daft, D.M.D and Dr. Gian Calandrelli, D.M.D. This new partnership ensures that the practice started by Dr. Jared Stubbs continues the long standing tradition of relationship based dentistry for the surrounding communities. Patients can rest assured that the practice will continue to focus on caring for the patient first, focusing on the quality of the care and giving back to the community.

When Dr. Daft was asked what she is most excited about for her new partnership she said “I am grateful to the community for trusting me with their dental care for the last 25 years”. My priority has always been to provide quality dental care with a focus on whole health dentistry. This philosophy was embedded in our practice by my predecessor Dr. Jared Stubbs and I embrace my new role as a mentor to Dr. Calandrelli. Our partnership solidifies that these priorities will remain the focus of our practice.”

Dr. Calandrelli had this to say about this new opportunity “Having grown up in this area I always dreamed about settling back down here, but to also have the opportunity to help care for the individuals of this area is something I didn’t think would be possible. I remember driving past Dr. Stubbs’ office as a child saying to my parents one day I’ll work there, and for that to actually have come true is unbelievable to me. I’m excited to continue growing as a doctor and to share this growth with our patients, but most importantly to start creating roots within the community that I’ve grown to love.”

The Practice has many new exciting plans coming in the future and can’t wait to share them with the community, keep an eye out for these new ideas in their social media posts and in your local news reporters.

www.smilebuilder.com (508-336-7260) email -dentist@smilebuilder.com

Gian Calandrelli, DMD,PC with Lisa Daft, DMD

Dighton-Rehoboth Announces National Merit Scholar

By Joe Siegel

On Wednesday, Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School announced that Jane Kostka has been named a National Merit Commended Scholar in the National Merit Scholarship Program. Kostka, a Rehoboth resident, is a member of the DRRHS Class of 2024.

“This recognition is a testament to the powerful teaching and learning that takes place at DRRHS and across the district,” said Superintendent Bill Runey. “This is a tremendous achievement that reflects positively on our #WeAreDR Community.”

Commended Scholars and Semifinalists are those in the top three percent of all students in the nation taking the exam. “We are proud to extend our congratulations to Jane and her teachers,” said Principal Jacqueline Ash.

Honorees are among approximately 1.5 million U.S. high school students who participated in the October 2022 Preliminary SAT/ National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®). Only 34,000 students earn scores high enough to receive Letters of Commendation in recognition of their outstanding academic promise.

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation is a non-profit organization that conducts annual competitions for recognition and college undergraduate scholarships. Since its founding, nearly three million students have been recognized, and over 350,000 scholarships have been awarded.

University News

SNHU

Announces Summer 2023 President’s List

Manchester, NH -- It is with great pleasure that Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) congratulates the following students on being named to the Summer 2023 President’s List. The summer terms run from May to August: Olivia Penacho, Andrew Platt, Lynn Santos

SNHU Announces Summer 2023 Dean’s List

Manchester, NH -- It is with great pleasure that Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) congratulates the following students on being named to the Summer 2023 Dean’s List. The summer terms run from May to August: Kasey Rocha, Matthew Fortin, Shannon Wetherell

Meghan Hastings of Rehoboth is Enrolled at Lehigh University

Bethlehem, PA -- Lehigh University is proud to welcome the Class of 2027!

Meghan, Lehigh is thrilled to count you among the 80,000+ members of the Lehigh family. Welcome to Lehigh!

Seekonk Resident Spencer Romain Completes Intensive Research Project

Worcester, MA -- Spencer Romain, a member of the class of 2025 majoring in Architectural Engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), was a member of a student team that recently completed an intense research project titled Improving Lyon’s Green Spaces using LEGO 3D Urban Modeling.

Ithaca College Students Named to Spring

2023 Dean’s List

Ithaca, NY - Ithaca College student named to Dean’s List for the Spring 2023 semester.

Seekonk: Elias Scott

Rehoboth: Casey David, Sebastian Pickford

Ben Abbatematteo of Seekonk earns PhD

Ben Abbatematteo, son of Michael Abbatematteo and Wendy Ashcroft of Seekonk, has earned his PhD in the Intelligent Robot Lab at Brown University. He is a 2013 graduate of LaSalle Academy, and a 2017 Phi Beta Kappa graduate of the University of Rochester, where he earned a BS in Biomedical Engineering. Ben will continue his research as a postdoc at the University of Texas at Austin.

National Merit Commended Scholar Jane Kostka

Seekonk Human Services

The center is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 8:30am - 4:30pm, and Wednesday 8:30am - 5:30pm and Friday 8:30am - 12:00pm. We welcome all to come and enjoy the activities and companionship at Seekonk Human

THE OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2023

Dennis Pimenta - Magician

Wed, October 18, 2023 at 1:00pm

Dennis Thomas is a full-time, professional NJ magician. For the past 25+ years. His show features magic, comedy, illusions, live animals and audience participation. One of the most talented magicians in NJ, Dennis has performed in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York areas. That’s not to mention the many Birthday Party shows he’s performed at various homes and restaurants. All of Dennis’ shows are totally self-contained. From props to tables to music to curtains, he brings everything he’ll need to deliver the coolest magic show in Massachusetts even laughs are included. Preregistration for this activity is required by calling our office at 508-336-8772.

Creative Wellness A Collage Workshop

Mon, October 23, 2023 at 1:00pm

Sit back and enjoy hearing a variety of tips and techniques around the benefits of creativity for emotional wellness, as we kick off this engaging presentation. A hands-on exploration of image and word collaging to relax and recharge. Each attendee will create their own scrapbook style board as Maria shares well-being insight and levity. This program is targeted to the adult community who are interested in nurturing their wellbeing, enjoy discovery in creative outlets, as well as meeting up and connecting with others. *This program is generously provided by a grant from the Seekonk Cultural Council. Preregistration for this activity is required by calling our office at 508-336-8772.

Davis Bates Halloween Harvest

Wed, October 25, 2023 at 11:30am

Davis has had a wonderful time sharing performances at well over 160 senior centers in Massachusetts over the last 43 years, with many repeat visits. It is joy for Davis to get folks singing together, and to share stories that trigger memories and connections to the past and the present. Songs are often accompanied by spoons, limberjack, rainstick, cabasa and guiro, a traditional indigenous instrument from Puerto Rico. Lunch will be chicken and broccoli alfredo. Lunch will be served after the performance. The lunch charge for residents is $5 and the charge

for non-residents is $7. All those who dress up will be entered into a raffle, and will be part of our costume contest. *This program is generously provided by a grant from the Seekonk Cultural Council. Preregistration for this activity is required by calling our office at 508-336-8772

Medicare Open Enrollment

It’s that time of year again! If you are enrolled in a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan or a Medicare Advantage Plan (HMO/ PPO), expect an information packet from your plan by the end of September. It is important to understand and save this information: it explains the changes in your plan for 2024. Premiums, deductibles, co-pays, and the drugs covered by your plan can change significantly! During Medicare Open Enrollment, you can adjust your plan for next year. Independent Medicare Insurance Counselors help you understand your plan changes as well as other options you may have. Open Enrollment runs from October 15 through December 7!

*Please note all clients will be required to fill out a Medicare prescreening form to help us better serve you by looking up your current plan and comparing it to the future plans, if changes are necessary.

Podiatry Clinic

Wed, Oct 4, 2023 10:00am - 2:30pm

Dr. Lechan provides monthly Podiatry Clinics. An appointment is required. Items needed are insurance cards with your primary doctor’s name, date of last doctor’s visit, summary of last visit, and list of medications. *Please check with your insurance regarding co-pays.

Blood Pressure & Glucose Clinic

Wed, Oct 18th 9:00am - 11:00am

Seekonk Human Services continues to work with the Seekonk Fire Department to provide free monthly blood pressure & glucose screenings.

Let’s Learn Together!

Tues, October 31, 2023 @ 2:00pm

Do you have a nagging question or new discovery about using your smartphone, tablet, laptop or Chromebook? Come share it with us so we can all learn from it! Librarian

Michelle Gario will moderate this 60-minute session to help each other with technology. There is no set agenda; bring your device, share questions, and answers, favorite tips and tools. Bring your own tablet, phone, or laptop. Please make sure your device is fully charged. Contact our office register by calling 508-336-8772.

Telephone Reassurance Program

Seekonk Human Services has taken over the “R.U.O.K” Program that was provided by the Bristol County Sheriff’s Office. Our office will make a telephone call to an individual’s home at approximately the same time each day Monday through Friday (during our operating business hours only). This program is designed to connect people in need with ongoing, caring human contact and conversation. If we do not receive an answer, we will call back shortly after. If we do not receive an answer the second time, Public Safety will be called to check on the individual’s status.

The Telephone Reassurance Program provides a peace of mind for the individual and their loved ones. This program is designed for senior citizens, disabled persons and shut-ins living in Seekonk who may be at risk of loneliness, social isolation, illness or injury.

If you, or you know someone you know is interested in this program, please call Nicole at Human Services at 508-336-8772.

Favorite Children’s Book Contest

Vote for the favorite books of your children, grandchildren--multiple entries are welcome. The selection of titles is not limited to the ones mentioned on the flyer. Please cast your vote by December 31, 2023. Samuel Brown will purchase the most popular title and affix a bookplate to the book in honor of your center. The book will be donated to Read to Grow, an organization that promotes language skills and literacy for children. So cast your vote for the book you love most either reading to your children, your grandchildren, nieces and/or nephews. We will have a bucket for you to put your vote into. For more information visit us at Human Services!

Newport Playhouse & Cabaret Restaurant

Tuesday, December 5, 2023

Price: $141.00 Per Person

“Miracle on South Division Street”

Full payment upon signing up Bloom Tours is taking you to the Newport Playhouse & Cabaret Restaurant to

enjoy a show and lunch. The play “Miracle on South Division Street” - Meet the Nowaks of Buffalo, NY. Clara and her three grown kids have always known they were special, ever since the miraculous Christmas Eve in 1942 when the Blessed Mother appeared to Grandpa in his barbershop! Daughter Ruth unveils her plan to write and star in a one-woman Christmas show. The results are heartfelt and hilarious. Enjoy the buffet before the show which has a variety meals, Coffee, Tea and assortment of homemade desserts. Your motorcoach will depart: 10am from 540 Arcade Avenue, Seekonk. Approximate return at 5:15pm. Trip includes: lunch, play, cabaret, transportation and drivers gratuity.

Tuesday Luncheons

Tuesdays at 11:45am

Seekonk Human Services has partnered with The Cook’s House to offer weekly lunches! Lunches will cost $4 for residents and $5 for nonresidents. The menu will be available at the office and on Facebook. Advance sign up is required one week in advanced with payment.

Women’s Lunch

Wed, October 18, 2023 @ 11:30am

Longhorn Steakhouse in Seekonk, MA

The Women’s lunch group meets every

3rd Wednesday of the month at 11:30am. Everything is Dutch treat. If you are interested in joining for good food and good conversation, while supporting our local restaurants, please call Seekonk Human Services at 508-336-8772.

Future Activities Veterans’ Day Celebration

Wed, November 8, 2023 @ 11:30am

The annual Veterans Day luncheon will take place on Wednesday, November 8th at 11:30am. The musical entertainment for our Veterans’ Day Celebration will be the Navy Band (subject to change). There will be a FREE lunch for Seekonk Veterans. Lunch will be pasta and meatballs. The fee for Seekonk residents who are not Veterans is $5.00, and non-residents is $7.00. Registration for non-residents begins 10/15 and all registrations are due by 11/3. To register please call our office at 508-336-8772.

Friendsgiving

Wed, November 15th @ 11:30am

We invite you to our second annual Friendsgiving. Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on what and who we are grateful for in general over the past year. The best way to share those reflections is around the Thanksgiving table. Join us for a delicious Thanksgiving Shepherd’s Pie (fresh roasted turkey, stuffing, gravy, corn, & mashed potatoes with a side of cranberry sauce) provided by The Cooks House with good company and conversation. The cost for residents is $7 and non-residents is $10. Registration for non-residents begins 10/23. Registration is due by 11/8. To register please call our office at 508-336-8772.

Overview of Legal Services

Monday, November 27, 2023

10am - 12pm (15 minutes appointment)

Brandon Walecka, Esq., LL.M from Walecka Law will be providing office hours by appointment. The mini-consultations will center around elder law topics such as probate, questions regarding making a will (other power of attorney, health care proxy, etc.), trusts (irrevocable and revocable), Medicaid/MassHealth rules and eligibility, tax planning, and special needs planning. These consults are focused on elder law and estate planning. Please call the office at 508-336-8772. MA residents only.

Healthy Aging Lunch & Learn

Wed, November 29th at 11:30am

“Healthy Holiday Eating” for healthy aging! The presentation will be about debunking common nutrition advice seen across television and in the media with Bristol

Elder Services Registered Dietitian, Dawn DiMarco. Most nutrition advice in the media is not accurate. If you are looking for nutrition advice, always ask a Registered Dietitian. The menu will be: sausage, peppers and onions, sub roll, pasta alfredo, cake, & lemonade. Preregistration is required by calling our office at 508-336-8772.

Activities and Programs

Mondays

Chair Yoga 10am

Canasta 11:30am

Strength & Cardio 1pm

Zoom BINGO 1:30pm

Tuesdays

Drums Alive 9am

Watercolors 10am

Hi Lo Jack 1pm

Wednesdays

Drums Alive 9:30am

Tribal Grooves 11:00am

Mahjong 1pm

Thursdays

Chair Yoga 10am

Hi Lo Jack 1pm BINGO 1pm

Fridays

Dance Cardio 9:15am

Tai Chi 10:30am

*All activities are subject to pre-registration

Community Questions for our Police Liaison Officer Maria Vicenzo is welcoming community questions to be answered. Questions can be mailed to the center, dropped off in person, or placed in our lock box that is attached to the building at the entrance. We will post answers to the questions in the monthly newsletter and on our Facebook page, if requested. If you prefer to be called, please leave your contact information and we will be in contact.

Email List

Join our email list! Things are changing so quickly these days and we want to be able to get the word out to you quickly. Please give us a call and give us your email address; we want to share fun activities, links to zoon and other virtual programing you may like.

Nutritional Meals To Go

Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday

Bristol Elder Services provides nutritional meals for lunch on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays to go. Meals come completely cooked and prepackaged. Meals need to be ordered the day before by 9:30am. Suggested donation of $2.25 per meal which will be collected at the time of pickup. Pick up will be between 11am12pm. September’s menu is available on our

Facebook Page and by calling our office at 508-336-8772.

Veteran’s Corner

3rd Annual Seekonk Veterans Community Leaf Rake

Sat, November 11th, 9am-12pm

Rain Date: November 18th

A Community service event where Volunteer staff and students of Seekonk High School clean up yards for our Veterans and Seniors of Seekonk

If you would like to have your home’s yard be a part of this event, please contact VSO James LaFlame. Phone: 508-336-2940

Email: jlaflame@seekonk-ma.gov

Seekonk 3rd Annual Veterans Day Rolling Parade

Sat, November 11th, Meet at 9:00am

The Seekonk Veterans Council would like to invite all Seekonk Veterans to participate in a rolling parade, a parade of cars, motorcycles and military vehicles on Veterans Day 2023, Saturday November 11th meeting at 9am and rolls at 10am. The parade route starts at Briarwood Plaza and ends at the Seekonk Veterans Memorial Park. Kindly R.S.V.P. to my email or phone. This is a great opportunity for those in town to appreciate your service to the nation.

3rd Annual Holiday Festival

The Veterans Council will be holding their Holiday Festival Tree Sponsorship at the Seekonk Veterans Memorial Park during the month of December. For those who wish to get on the waiting list for a tree, please contact the VSO at the contact information below.

James LaFlame

Seekonk Veterans Services Officer Office 508-336-2940

Email: jlaflame@seekonk-ma.gov

The center is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 8:30am - 4:30pm, Wednesday 8:30am - 5:30pm and Friday 8:30am12:00pm. Come and enjoy the activities and companionship at your center. * NOTE: *Seekonk Human Services is primarily an informational and referral agency. We try to help you directly or by introducing you to a network of federal, state, or local support services. Seekonk Human Services offers legal, financial, recreational, medical screenings, and other activities/services by volunteers or nominally paid practitioners. Participation in these services/activities is with the understanding that Seekonk Human Services, Town of Seekonk, or its employees do not assume any legal or other responsibility for advice of services rendered by such volunteers or nominal cost practitioners.

Rehoboth Council on Aging

Francis Hall

27 Francis Farm Road, Rehoboth

Phone 508-252-3372

Fax 508-252-4716

Monday - Thursday 8:00am to 4:00pm

Fridays 8:00am to Noon

Rehoboth Senior Citizens Club News

Our first Rehoboth Senior Citizens Club (RSCC) meeting of the 2023-2024 season was held in the Arcade Building at the Francis Farm complex on September 21st. There were 15 in attendance - all of us enjoyed a short but fruitful meeting, a wonderful lunch, great desserts, and fabulous entertainment, the Brown Bag Auction. Ken Howard was the hilarious auctioneer and sold each bag to find some “surprising” surprises inside.

Our Annual Fall Bazaar will be on October 14th from 9-3 at 27 Francis Farm Rd. in the main hall. Our members and friends are working very hard towards the success of our Bazaar. Vendors may arrive at 8 a.m. for set-up. There will be an outside food truck, The Shiny Grill, LLC., owned and operated by Dave and Lori Dias (hot dogs, steak and cheese sandwiches, etc. and drinks). There will also be food inside provided by The Rehoboth House of Pizza. They will be selling pizza, calzones, meatball subs, and chips. Soda and water bottles will be available inside and will be sold by the Senior Club. Please come down to the Bazaar and see all the wonderful items available. You may even find some Christmas gifts to bring home!

Our next RSCC meeting will be November 16th, a THURSDAY, at 12 noon, in the Arcade Building at the Francis Farm complex. We will be discussing the outcome of our Bazaar and delving into plans for the Christmas party, a March or April trip to Worcester to see a play, and our May 24th Club’s 50th Anniversary Celebration. Please bring a bag lunch and a drink; dessert will be provided. Plan on staying for Bingo fun and prizes. We hope to see you there!

Donna Howard, President

The COA will be closed

Monday October 9th

Our Kitchen is back !!!

We welcome Chef Chico Charbonneau. Chico will be cooking Breakfast on Mondays/Wednesdays/Fridays and Lunch on Mondays & Wednesdays.Come join us

Gert’s Spooky Café

Monday October 30th Noon -2:00

Costumes encouraged or come as you are. Limited seating please sign up. Music by DJ Nate

Book Club

First Tuesday of Month10:00- 11:00

Desire Palmer will run the Book Club. Come and join us

Dancer-cise NEW class

Tuesdays @ 9:00

Taught by Gail Romanovich. In collaboration with the Taunton & Dighton Council on Aging

Fall Festival

Tuesday October 17th 3:00-6:00 pm

Tickets $15.00. See Linna or Bridget for tickets

Join Our Walking Club

Mon-Wed- Fri @ 9:00AM

Lace up your sneakers and get ready for the Walk Massachusetts Challenge! Signup @ walkmachallenge.com

We have added a Paper Crafting Class and a Jewelry Making. We can always use extra supplies. Scrapbooking, Cricut Supplies, die cuts, embossing folders, Jewelry making supplies. We are in need of cotton, flannel, and fleece fabric for sewing projects.We are accepting yarn donations for hats & blankets

ACTIVITIES

Mondays

10:00 Combined Yoga - Chair or Mat in the Arcade

10:00 Cornhole Toss

10:00 Ladies Sewing & Quilting

1:00 Hi-Lo Jack

1:00- 3:00 Crafty Fun Classes $5

Wednesdays

8:30 - 10:00 Breakfast (NEW)

9:00 Walking Club

10:00 Bocce

10:00 Cornhole Toss

10:00-2:00 Nails by Gabbi call the COA for an appointment

Noon Lunch (NEW)

1:00-3:00 Acrylic Painting Class $5.00

1:00- Dominoes (NEW)

Thursday

9:00 Tai Chi

10:00 Fiber Arts (Knitting & Crochet get together. Bring any project you are working on)

12:15 Drums Alive $3.00

1:00-3:00 Paper Crafting Class includes Card Making, Stamping, etc. (FREE)

1:00-3:00 Watercolor Class $5.00

Friday

8:30 - 10:00 Breakfast (NEW)

9:00 Walking Club

10:00 Bocce

10:00 Cornhole Toss

10:00 Jenga

Rehoboth Public Health Nurse

Geraldine Hamel, RN MSN: Monday through Thursday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. 508252-6502 ext. 3127 or 508-252-5947

Stephanie Reis, RN BSN: 508-252-6052 ext. 3128

Offering multiple medical services for our Rehoboth citizens: Home Visits, Vaccinations, Support groups: Bereavement, Caregiver assistance, Dementia support and more

Wellness Clinic

Wednesday

Podiatry Clinic: Last Thursday of the month Blood Pressures & Glucose Screenings:: Please contact the Public Health Nurse Geri Hamel 508-252-3127 for more information.

Rehoboth Council on Aging

~ Limited seating ~ $3.00 Please call to reserve a seat 508-252-3372

9:00

Tuesdays

(NEW)

Making Class $5.00

A Municipal Department of the Town Mission:

The Rehoboth Senior Center’s mission is to develop and provide programs, opportunities, and resources to enrich the social, emotional, physical, mental, and economic

well-being of Rehoboth’s elder citizens.

The Rehoboth Senior Center shall serve as a community focal point and an inclusive support system where Rehoboth’s elder citizens:

• Can engage in leisure, wellness, educational, and social programs that promote an enhanced quality of life and socialemotional health and well-being

• Can enjoy onsite meals prepared in the senior center kitchen and be served in the building’s dining area

• Can connect to their peers and community

• Can foster inter-generational relationships and shared activities

• Can obtain information on and access to governmental supports and programs that connect people to transportation, housing, nutritional, and economic assistance

• Can gain access to health information and resources to support independence and ensure healthy aging in our community

• Can seek out opportunities for lifetime learning and volunteering and civic engagement

The Rehoboth Senior Center’s vision is to grow and expand our offerings while preserving our commitment to the dignity and worth of every person in our community.

The Rehoboth Council on Aging shall:

a. Provide, coordinate and link available resources to help meet the needs of the Town of Rehoboth’s elders.

b. Carry out programs and services that range from information on community education, referrals, outreach, transportation, Meals on Wheels, health screenings, inter-generational activities, crafting programs and other programs beneficial to our seniors.

Rehoboth Girl Scout Troop 338 enjoyed their first meeting back together after summer break!

Rehoboth Girl Scout Troop 507 completed their safety award by learning the skills needed to perform the Heimlich maneuver to save someone that is choking.

Girl Scouts of SNE Announces 2023 Leading Women of Distinction Award Honorees

Girl Scouts of Southeastern New England (GSSNE) is thrilled to announce that the 2023 Leading Women of Distinction Awards ceremony and breakfast will be held at the Squantum Association, Inc. on Thursday, October 19, 2023, from 8:00am-9:30am.

The 2023 Leading Women of Distinction Honorees listed below lead by example and exemplify the Girl Scout mission of building girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place—the women who demonstrate qualities of leadership and excellence in their life. This year’s Honorees are:

• Anita Bruno, CEO/Founder, RI Women in the Trades

• Lisa Guillette, Executive Director, Foster Forward

• Dr. Deb Myers Meilun, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Women and Infants Hospital

• Ayana Melvan, Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships for Mission Programs, Mystic Aquarium

• Dimetra Nettles, Chief Clinical Laboratory Scientist, State of Rhode Island

• Monsurat Ottun, Cybersecurity Advisor, U.S. Department of Homeland Security

• Lisa Ranglin, President/CEO, Rhode Island Black Business Association

• Amy Walsh, Executive Director, JPMorgan Chase

Girl Scouts of Southeastern New England CEO Dana BorrelliMurray, stated, “We are so excited to celebrate this year’s Leading Women of Distinction. This was the most competitive year for the award, with more than double the number of nominees than ever before! All nominees are incredibly accomplished, diverse leaders that exemplify the Girl Scout mission of courage, confidence, and character to make the world a better place. We believe that shining a light on our community leaders will influence our next generation of leaders to make our world a better place.”

Since 2015, the GSSNE Leading Women of Distinction Honorees have been a direct reflection of what Girl Scouting stands for—they are both impressive and inspiring. GSSNE hopes that through positive, girl-led, girl-centric experiences and exposure to strong, female role models, all girls can thrive in the direction of their ambitions and lead lives full of courage, confidence, and character.

To learn more about the 2023 Leading Women of Distinction Awards and to purchase tickets to the awards breakfast visit gssne. org/leadingwomen.

&

Anawan Lions News

The Rehoboth Anawan Lions will be holding another DELICIOUS drive-by Pasta Meal on Thursday October 26th at the American Legion on Bay Road. Tickets are $15.00 and the meal consists of HOMEMADE MEATBALLS, pasta, salad, rolls, butter and HOMEMADE brownies! Why cook when you can drop by and pick up a delicious homemade meal. Please contact Lisa Halajko at 774-991-0052, Jeanne Noons at 508-942-4903 for tickets or any Anawan Lion. The proceeds go to Lions Charities. Also in October is our White Cane Day. The Anawan Lions will be at the two Dunkin Donuts in town and at the Transfer Station on Saturday October 21st with our containers to collect your donations. We appreciate all you do to support our Club, thank you. As always, if you are interested in doing something fulfilling for yourself and others, please consider joining the Anawan Lions. Please contact our Club President Charleen Silva at 401-578-6083 and she would be happy to assist you. Our Motto: We Serve!

Events at the Seekonk American Legion Post 311

Fall Psychic Fair – October 8th

We will be holding our Fall Psychic Fair on Sunday, 10/8/23. Admission is free. 15-minute readings are $20.00 each. There will also be several Vendors and Crafters. The hours are from 10 am to 3 pm. Proceeds to benefit American Legion Auxiliary programs for our Veterans, community and children. For more information, please call Kathy at 401-434-8917 or send email to auxiliary311@ yahoo.com.

Participating Readers at this event are: Beverly Sylvia – Psychic and Spirit Medium, Annalise Hajer - Spiritual Medium, Debbie Matthews - Spiritual Psychic Medium, Astrid Meijer– Akashic Records Reader, Amber French – Reiki Master Teacher, Theta Healer, Self Love specialist, Angel Medium, Anita Wakim - Intuitive OH Card Reader, and Susan Aubin – Medium.

Participating Crafters/Vendors are: Emma Healey from Crystal Healing Arts selling crystals and handmade items, Quilted Table Runners by Lois, Rada Cutlery and more.

Fall Meat Raffles Cancelled for October

Our kitchen is currently closed for remodeling, so we will not be holding the Meat Raffles in October. We are planning on having raffles after the holidays.

Annual Turkey Raffle – November 17th

Annual Turkey Raffle on Friday, November 78th. Raffle starts at 7:00 pm for 30 turkey baskets that include vegetables and all the fixings. Turkey Baskets raffled every 10 minutes.

Hall Rental

200 person capacity.

Contact Bob Reed for information at 508-336-9822 351 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA 02771 - 508-336-9822

Pictures of Rehoboth Schools Wanted

We want pictures of school buildings or anything related to Rehoboth’s schools during the 20th Century. Bring school related materials to the Hornbine School Museum on Saturday, October 7th and/or Sunday, November 5th from 1 to 4. We would like to add your information to our library. We will be open this Sunday, September 24th from 2 – 4 P.M. The school is located at 144 Hornbine Road in Rehoboth.

Some of our September 10th visitors had a connection to our school. Samantha Miller and her two daughters, Fallyn & Emmersyn, are related to Evelyn Rose Boise who attended the school in the 1920s and 30s. Samantha’s mother is Carol Rose, Evelyn’s Niece. Samantha’s Grandfather was Robert Rose, Evelyn’s Brother who also attended the school. Samantha’s Great grandfather, Manual Rose and her Great-great grandfather, Anthony Rose, with all their siblings, attended the school dating back as far as the 1870s! Go to our website at https:// hornbineschool.tripod.com for more information about Evelyn and her family.

Rehoboth Lions Club News

Happy October - Welcome to Autumn!

We are officially in full swing for the 2023 - 2024 Lion Year!

We want to thank everyone who attended and donated to our special September Clam Boil in support of the Maui Fire victims! 100% of the proceeds went to aid the victims and help them get back on their feet again.

The remaining Clam Boils of the year are October 4, and November 1. Ask any Lion for further info, or visit our website!

We are just weeks away from the 34th Annual Rehoboth Lions Golf Tournament, dedicated to the memory of Ray Dyer. This year, the tournament will be held on Sunday, October 15th at the Swansea Country Club. As of this writing, we still have a few sponsorship and foursome spots available so if you are interested, please contact us ASAP. For more information, please visit the Rehoboth Lions website at https://rehobothlions.org/event/rehoboth-lions-2023-golftournament/, or reach out to either Don Nokes or Scott Lacourse, co-chairs of this year’s event. Visit Don Nokes (401-255-3666)Scott Lacourse (774-203-8653)

To get an “up to date” look at what’s coming next from the Rehoboth Lions, please visit us at https://rehobothlions.org/.

If you are interested in learning what it means to be a Lion, just reach out to Scott Lacourse (slacourse@gmail.com) or Mike Salois (mgsc@comcast.net).

Rehoboth Garden Club News

The importance of trees and proper pruning methods will be the topics of our October meeting. Our first guest speaker, Rachel Holbert, from the Newport Tree Conservancy, will talk about the ways trees help reduce and manage the effects of climate change. Our second guest will be Joe Verstandig, who will demonstrate how to correctly prune a dogwood tree. The community is invited to this informative meeting on Monday October 16, 2023 at the Rehoboth Congregational Church at 9:30 AM.

Our rescheduled field trip to the RI Resource Recovery Corporation in Johnston RI will take place on Wednesday October 18, 2023. It will include a private bus tour of this expansive facility, which includes state-of-the-art landfills, a recycling center, composting and educational programs.

New members are always welcome. For club information please contact Judith Doty at 508-567-5276.

CRAFTS SHOW

October 21, 2023 12-4pm to benefit Veterans honoring PowWow 2024

Presented by HAWK CLAN

MEETIS NATION OF NORTH AMERICA

American Legion Post 303

73 Ocean Grove Ave Swansea, MA 02777

SPECIAL RAFFLES

TABLES $25 each

Contact Jewel: pap628@comcast.net or 508-962-2803

Samantha Miller and her two daughters, Fallyn & Emmersyn

Evelyn Rose Boise pointing to her aunt who attended the Hornbine School in 1896

Crafters’ Marketplace: 2023 Craft Show to Benefit the Carpenter Museum

October 14, 2023 9AM-4PM

The Carpenter Museum invites you to our 44th annual Crafters’ Marketplace, Saturday October 14, 9AM-4PM.

The show will, once again, be held in the historic Rehoboth Village in three separate but walkable buildings, the Carpenter Museum, the Rehoboth Congregational Church Hall, and nearby Goff Hall at Blanding Public Library.

This prestigious show has grown in its 44 years from 2 tables of local crafters to dozens of vendors selling their wares to raise money to support Museum projects and programming. This show is committed to bringing quality handmade items from skilled crafters to their shoppers. Additionally, this year there will be a bake sale and a food truck. The Marketplace is free to enter, free to park, and makes the perfect autumn outing. All proceeds go to the Carpenter Museum, a non-for-profit history and research center.

About the Carpenter Museum:

The Carpenter Museum is Rehoboth’s local history museum. Our mission is to collect, document, preserve, and share material culture related to the town’s history. We connect the Rehoboth community with these artifacts and with local history in general through our exhibits and programming. The Museum provides the wider community with research support, especially in the area of genealogy, and promotes learning about American history through direct experience with objects from the past.

American Legion Post 302 Public Events

• We hope to start Sept. 29th with our Fish & Chips – pending any hiccups. Then every Thursdays 4:00 till 7:00 P.M. & Fridays 4:00 – 8 PM. our kitchen remodeling for Fish & Chips “should” be ready by Sept 29th?

• Take Outs are welcome – call in your order in early for pickup at 508-252-9079

• Sign up for our Monday-Tuesday & Wednesday Night Dart Leagues

• MASS LOTTERY – PLAY “KENO”, “MEGAMILLION”, “POWERBALL”

• If you’re interested in playing in a Card League of Hi-Lo Jacks. Monday Nights from September through November & April – June or Wednesday nights September – December and start up again in January – April. All games start at 7:00 PM @ $7.00 per game. The Cribbage League plays on Monday Nights January – March and then on Wednesday Nights from May – August – all games start at 7:00 PM. e-mail speedyjake@aol.com or call #508-252-9079

Upcoming Events

• “Special“ OCTOBER 7th, 2023 - Saturday – 4:30 - 7:00 P.M. – American Legions Auxiliary Pasta Dinner with -– Food – Drinks – PLUS + 7:00-10:00 PM - Dancing - Live Music performed by ?? Entertainment with Classical Rock Music https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/

• October 7th, 2023 - Saturday - 7:00 - 10:00 P.M., Ghost Cat Rodeo presents Classic County Rock, Music - No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook.com/ghostcatrodeo/

• October 8th, 2023 – Sunday -7:30 -10:30 A.M. American Legion & Anawan Lions Monthly Breakfast, Second Sunday of every month $12.00 donation - All you can Eat! https://www. facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/

• October 8th, 2023 - Sunday - 2:00 - 5:00 P.M., On3 Entertainment, Classic Rock – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/

• October 13th, 2023 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – Live Music performed by Notorious Jones Entertainment with Classic Rock Music – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100063368911454

• “Special“ OCTOBER 14th, 2023 - Saturday – 5:00 - 7:00 P.M. –American Legions Annual Pig Roast with the master chef John DuVally -– Food – Drinks – PLUS + 5:00-8:00 PM - Dancing - Live Music performed by ?? Entertainment with Classical Rock Music https://www.facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/

• October 14th, 2023 Saturday - 7:00-10:00 P.M. - “3 CAN JAM” from Attleboro - Live Music Entertainment playing Classic & Rock – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Dancing & having a GREAT TIME! https://www.facebook.com/3CANJAM/

• October 20th, 2023 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – Rock-A-Blues Band with Classic Rock Music – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.rockablues.com

• “Special“ October 21st, 2023 – Saturday - 7:00-11:00 P.M. – Annual Halloween Costume / Witches Ball – with $100.00 first prize for best costume & you must register by 8:00 PM with Jake - $10.00 per ticket, Johnny Angle will be playing Music and Karaoke – Food – Cash Bar https://www. facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/

• October 27th,2023 – Friday - 7:00 - 8:00

P.M., Sons of the American Legion’s Monthly Meat Raffle followed by Karaoke - 8:00 - 11:00 P.M. – No Cover Charge! –Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the

Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/

• October 27th, 2023 – Friday - 8:00-11:00 P.M. + – Live Karaoke performed by Mette & Devan Entertainment, Come on in and sing a song or two – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/

• November 3rd, 2023 - Friday - 6:30 - 10:00 P.M., Jim Powers Entertainment presents Old Time Rock “N” Roll, Classic Rock & County – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/

• November 4th, 2023 - Saturday - 7:00 - 10:00 P.M., On3 Entertainment, Classic Rock – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks –

• Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook. com/groups/657024961125913/

• November 10th, 2023 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – Live Music performed by Notorious Jones Entertainment with Classic Rock Music – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063368911454

• “Special” November 11th, 2023 – Saturday - 11:00 - 4:00 P.M. –VETERANS DAY DINNER – Food - serves food to our Veterans - https://www.facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/

• November 11th, 2023 – Saturday - 12:00 -2:00 P.M. – BOMBSHELL BETTY PRODUCTIONS with Live Vocal Music – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Dancing & having a GREAT TIME - https://www.bombshellbettyproductions.com/

• November 12th, 2023 – Sunday -7:30 -10:30 A.M. American Legion & Anawan Lions Monthly Breakfast, Second Sunday of every month $12.00 donation - All you can Eat! https://www.facebook. com/groups/657024961125913/

• November 17th,2023 – Friday - 7:00 - 8:00 P.M., Sons of the American Legion’s Monthly Meat Raffle followed by Karaoke - 8:0011:00 P.M. – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/

• November 17th,2023 – Friday - 8:00-11:00 P.M. + – Live Karaoke performed by Mette & Devan Entertainment, Come on in and sing a song or two – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/

• November 24th, 2023 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – Rock-A-Blues Band with Classic Rock Music – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.rockablues.com

• November 25th, 2023 – Saturday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – “3 CAN JAM” from Attleboro - Live Music Entertainment playing Classic & Rock – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Dancing & having a GREAT TIME! https://www.facebook.com/3CANJAM/

• December 1st, 2023 - Friday - 6:30 - 10:00 P.M., Jim Powers

Entertainment presents Old Time Rock “N” Roll, Classic Rock & County – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/

Representative Steven Howitt

From the State House

Representative Steven S. Howitt Supports Comprehensive $1.02 Billion Tax Relief Package

Reforms estate tax, expands Senior Circuit Breaker and rental deduction

State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R-Seekonk) has joined with his colleagues to approve a comprehensive tax package that will provide significant financial relief to Massachusetts residents and businesses.

House Bill 4104, An Act to improve the Commonwealth’s competitiveness, affordability, and equity, offers a phased-in approach to a series of tax reforms that is expected to produce $561 million in savings for taxpayers this fiscal year and an estimated $1.02 billion in savings once the changes are fully implemented in 2026. The bill, which represents a compromise negotiated over the last three months by a six-member conference committee, received preliminary approval by the House of Representatives on a vote of 155-1 on September 27.

Representative Howitt noted that the final tax package provides for increases in the child and dependent tax credit, the rental deduction cap, and the Earned Income Tax Credit. It also doubles the Senior Circuit Breaker tax credit while raising the estate tax threshold from $1 million to $2 million and increasing the amount seniors can deduct from their property taxes when participating in the Senior Property Tax Volunteer Program.

House Bill 4104 also authorizes a reduction in the short-term capital gains tax rate and implements a single sales factor for companies beginning January 1, 2025 to encourage economic growth and help maintain Massachusetts-based businesses. In addition, the bill triples the maximum allowable Title V tax credit for homeowners repairing or replacing their septic systems, while also expanding the lead paint abatement and taking steps to promote more housing development across the state.

According to Representative Howitt, House Bill 4104:

• Combines the child and dependent tax credits into one while eliminating the existing cap and increasing the credit from $180 to $310 in FY23 and to $440 in FY24, which will benefit over 565,000 families;

• Increases the rental deduction cap from $3,000 to $4,000, which will assist approximately 800,000 renters;

• Raises the Earned Income Tax Credit from 30% to 40% of the federal credit, which will benefit approximately 400,000 taxpayers earning less than $60,000;

• Doubles the maximum Senior Circuit Breaker tax credit from $1,200 to $2,400, indexed to inflation, to assist nearly 100,000 seniors with their housing costs;

• Eliminates the estate tax for all estates valued under $2 million and allows for a uniform credit of $99,600, effective January 1, 2023;

• Allows municipalities to provide up to $2,000 in property tax reductions for older residents participating in the senior work-off program, which is currently capped at $1,500;

• Reduces the tax on short-term capital gains from 12% to 8.5%;

• Replaces the current three-prong sales tax apportionment for Massachusetts-headquartered businesses that incorporates property, payroll and sales with a new system that only factors in sales;

• Increases the maximum tax credit for septic system repairs or replacement under Title V from $6,000 to $18,000 and also increases the amount that can be claimed to $4,000 per year;

• Doubles the lead paint abatement to $1,000 for partial abatement and $3,000 for full abatement;

• Raises the statewide cap on the Housing Development Incentive Program (HDIP) from $10 million to $57 million for one year before

setting the annual cap at $30 million moving forward;

• Raises the annual authorization for the Low Income Housing Tax Credit from $40 million to $60 million;

• Allows cities and town to adopt a local property tax exemption for renters whose income falls below a certain level set by the community;

• Increases the statewide cap on the Dairy Tax Credit from $6 million to $8 million to assist local farmers impacted by reductions in milk prices;

• Makes public transit fares and certain other expenses eligible for the commuter expenses tax deduction;

• Expands the number of occupations eligible for the workforce development tax credit;

• Exempts employer student loan payments from being counted as taxable income by the state; and

• Increases the maximum amount of alcohol that hard ciders and still wines may contain from 6% of alcohol by weight to 8.5%, which will allow more of these locally produced products to be taxed at a lower rate.

House Bill 4104 must still be approved by the Senate and enacted in both branches before reaching Governor Maura Healey for her review and signature.

Women’s A Cappella Chorus Invites Female Singers to Participate In Holiday Show

Harmony Heritage Chorus, the Pawtucket, RI chapter of Harmony, Incorporated, an international organization of female a cappella singers specializing in the barbershop harmony style, is inviting female singers of all ages and musical backgrounds to sing with them as guest members in a special holiday concert to be held at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church on December 10th. Beginning October 17th and continuing through early December, new singers will need to attend the first hour of regular weekly Tuesday night rehearsals, which begin at 7:00 PM at the church at 50 Park Place in Pawtucket, RI. Parking is on the street or in the municipal lot at the end of the street. Attendees enter the church through the sanctuary entrance at the front of the building.

Guests will learn 5 holiday songs, including some old favorites and some lesser known pieces, and will perform those pieces with the chorus in front of a live (and appreciative) audience. Participation is free, and no further commitment is required. (Of course the chorus would be thrilled if they discover they had so much fun that they’d like to join the chorus on a more permanent basis!)

The Harmony Heritage chorus is an award-winning chapter of Harmony, Inc. that performs under the direction of Bob O’Connell, an accomplished director, performer, arranger and musician. “It’s important to note that barbershop harmony is often considered the ‘everyman’s’ a cappella,” says O’Connell. “Members don’t need to have a lot of musical experience, formal training, or even have the ability to read music. As long as she loves to sing, we have the tools to help her find success in barbershop harmony.”

Harmony Heritage chorus primarily sings in the barbershop harmony style, which traces its musical roots back to the turn of the 20th century. Today, barbershop harmony singers not only celebrate the classics, but also put their own spin on contemporary songs as well.

For more information about Harmony Heritage chorus, visit www. harmonyheritage.org . To inquire about booking a performance by the chorus, contact Barbara-Ann MacIntosh at 401-560-0073 or joyhi@cox.net. For questions on membership, contact Lisa Rivernider at 508-478-0986 or Anne Diggle at 401-465-4349.

Events & Activities

Rehoboth Police, Fire & Ambulance Public Safety Day

Sunday, October 8, 2023, 10am-2pm

South Fire Station, 104 Pleasant Street, Rehoboth, Ma

Learn more while viewing live Demos from your Police and Fire Departments

• Police, Fire & Ambulance

• Safety Vehicles on Display

• Fire Department Extrication Demo

• Police K-9 & Drone Demonstrations

• Children’s Activities w/ child safety kits

• Demonstration By National Grid

• Local Community Organizations

• National Guard

• Town Nurse

• Refreshments and more ………

9th Annual Seekonk Open Studios Event

Saturday, October 14th & Sunday, October 15th 11:00 – 4:00 P.M

Rain or Shine. Hosted at artist’s homes and studios in Seekonk Location List Available at: https://www.seekonkartistnetwork. com/open-studios

The Open Studio concept allows the public to take a peek into the world of local artists. The visitor can see and hear about the creative work that is passionately produced right here in Seekonk, as they meet the artist to understand the story, motivation and process of their work.

Twenty-two local artists will be showing their work at 8 venues in Seekonk. Locations will be marked with the Seekonk Artist Network logo on the mailbox.

Media will include painting, photography, drawings, puzzles, woodworking, sculpture, pottery, mosaics, sea glass jewelry and live music. Some of the work will be for sale for cash and carry (credit cards accepted at all locations).

For locations and more information about the event visit: https://www.seekonkartistnetwork.com/open-studios

The Seekonk Artist Network is an expanding group of full time and part time local artists that have come together to support and expand artist awareness and build the creative community here in Seekonk. Please like our Facebook page to stay in touch with our activities

Events continued on page 46...

Oct 15, Stage Reading of George Smart’s New Play “ONLY HUMANS BLEED.”

On Sunday Oct 15, at 2pm, at the Mitchell Memorial Club, on 29 Elm St in Middleboro, for One Performance Only, produced by Theatre One Productions, with a cast of talented Actors, directed by Omer Courcy, Playwright George Smart of Quincy, MA, has us looking into the future through a Stage Reading of his new play, “ONLY HUMANS BLEED.” (Mature Audiences) It is the year 2050, in a nameless basement of an old church. It is Winter Time and group members enter in summer attire. Climate Change has accelerated at an alarming rate and drastic measures have been undertaken be the Federal Government to address the crisis. Contemporaneously, the expansion of Robot Technology has resulted in large numbers of people becoming unemployed. The Reading will be followed by a Q&A with Playwright and Audience. Admissions for this reading is $10. “Cash Only” at the door. Full Bar. Free parking. No reservations. Come and support our series of new plays this season. Remember there is no theatre without Playwrights. Theatre One will also be collecting food donations for the Sacred Heart Food Pantry at all our performances.

Cooked by John DuVally & served with: Applesauce, Potato Salad, Coleslaw, and Beans

The Legacy of Sowams

October 17th & 18th

Community Conversations about designating the Sowams region as a National Heritage Area

The Sowams Heritage Area Project invites members of the community to participate in a community conversation to discuss the significance of Sowams, the ancestral homeland of the Massasoit Ousamequin who welcomed the Pilgrims in 1621, and the feasibility of designating the region as a National Heritage Area.

The conversation will be held twice: Tuesday, October 17, 2023, at 3:00pm at the First Christian Congregational Church in Swansea, MA and Wednesday, October 18, 2023, at 7:00pm at Hope and Main, in Warren, RI.

Sowams is the setting of one of America’s origin stories, the critical alliance that established 50 years of peace between the Indigenous Tribes that had fished, farmed and hunted the region for millennia and the English settlers arriving on the Mayflower. Sowams is also ground zero for the fracturing of that alliance during the devastating King Philip’s War. The legacy of those events and the way in which people have valued and used the eastern shore of Narragansett Bay has shaped the complex history of the region from prehistory to the present.

“The Sowams Project is not just about what happened here in the 17th Century,” says Project Coordinator, Dr. David S. Weed. “It’s also about what happened on this landscape over the last 400 years, and how our heritage informs our lives today and can shape our future as a community.”

A program of the National Park Service, National Heritage Areas (NHAs) are living, working, landscapes, which are designated by Congress to honor the important role of a region in our country’s development and celebrate its contributions to American history and

culture. Through dynamic public-private partnerships, NHAs provide a way to recognize, share, and conserve a region’s significant history and outstanding qualities.

The participants will discuss why Sowams is important to our nation’s origin story, learn about the benefits of the National Heritage Area program, and share their perspectives on how they can collaborate as a regional coalition to advance our communities. Says Weed, “It will take many voices to tell the story of Sowams. We want to hear yours!”

The Community Conversations are free. The public is invited to reserve a seat at the Tuesday event or Wednesday event.

About the Sowams Heritage Area Project:

Led by a regional coalition of town planners, tourism entities, historical societies, environmentalists, Tribal leaders, and other volunteers, the Sowams Heritage Area Project is undertaking an initiative to develop a National Heritage Area (NHA) in Sowams, the ancestral homeland of the Massasoit Ousamequin who welcomed the Pilgrims in 1621. NHAs protect and promote a region’s history, heritage and culture and use those assets to advance local economies through tourism, recreation and community development. For more information, go to https://sowams.org

Seekonk Knights of Columbus Charity Craft Fair

Saturday, October 21, 2023 10 am – 2 pm.

Knights of Columbus Hall, 532 Arcade Ave., Seekonk, MA 02771

We will have a total of 45 vendors located indoors and outdoors. There should be something for everyone. Music will be provided by Seekonk’s own “School of Rock”. Stop by “Kookies by Katie” table to choose from a delicious assortment, Free parking, free admission and a 50/50 raffle.

Visit our Facebook page for more details.

Rain date is Sunday, October 22, 2023.

AMERICANA AUCTION

380 Winthrop Street, Rte. 44, Rehoboth, MA

FABULOUS ANTIQUE ESTATE AUCTION

Sunday, November 5th ~11am

Preview Fri & Sat 10am-4pm

LIVE Antique Auction

LIVE Bidding

ONLINE Bidding

Ed Tessier, Jr., Auctioneer

For more information and preview: www.americana-auction.com

508-771-1722

Rehoboth Fire Dept. Station 3

Annual Drive Thru ~ Sun, Oct. 29th

For tickets call or text

508-294-4616. Tickets are $20.00.

Don’t miss out on the BEST chicken BBQ in town.

Friends of the Palmer River October Events

Rock and Rolling on the River

Bill Harley and the Friends of the Palmer River invite you to join us at 120 Perryville Rd. on Saturday, Oct 14th from 4-8pm for a fun(d)raiser for the Friends. Morgan Johnston and Sharks come cruising will also play. Bring a picnic and enjoy the bonfire! Free event, donations appreciated. Don’t miss this opportunity to see this Emmy-Award winning musician play for the watershed he lives in!

Moonlight Memories from the Palmer River Watershed

Oct. 28 5:45 - 8pm, Full “Hunter” Moon

Free Event

Costumed re-enactments of Rehoboth residents from the 17001800 who are buried at Burial Place Hill Cemetery

Sponsored by Friends of the Palmer River, The Carpenter Museum, the Historical Cemetery Commission and the Rehoboth Historical Society.

Bring your folding chair or blanket. All are welcome but must register by calling or texting Rob “Otter” Brown at (508) 252-6288 or emailing otterob@yahoo.com with your contact details and number of people.

Arts in the Village Presents South Coast Players

Saturday, October 28th

On Saturday, October 28th, the South Coast players will perform at Arts in the Village with pianist and Director Janice Weber. Other members include Jesse Holstein, violin, EmmaLee Holmes-Hicks, Violin, Anna Griffis, viola and Leo Eguchi, cello. Originally called the South Coast Chamber Music Society when it was formed in 2001, this group’s mission is to present high quality chamber music for the communities of Southeastern Massachusetts. In each program, they attempt to vary the instrumentation, blending winds and strings, and engaging guest artists to present a wide range of musical colors and styles. They have recently joined forces with the New Bedford Symphony, anchoring what is now called the South Coast Chamber Music Series.

This concert will take place at Goff Memorial Hall, 124 Bay State Road, in Rehoboth, MA 02769. The doors open at 700 p.m., first come, first seated. Wheelchair accessible. General admission is $28, $25 for seniors, and $10 for students and children. Payment may be made by cash, credit card, or check (made out to Rehoboth Antiquarian Society). For information, call 508-431-6879; or go to the website at https://rehobothantiquarian.org.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Narragansett Bay Symphony Community Orchestra Concert

The Narragansett Bay Symphony Community Orchestra, Rhode Island’s premier community orchestra, presents its Season Opener Concert, on Saturday, October 28, 2023 at 7:30 pm in the auditorium of East Providence High School, 2000 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence, RI.

The concert begins with a rousing rendition of Johann Sebastian Bach’s ‘Fantasia and Fugue’ reimagined by British composer, Edward Elgar. Both composers were musical innovators who dared to challenge traditional musical boundaries.

Since October is ‘Breast Cancer Awareness Month’, NaBSco, with music director Kristo Kondakçi and guest choral conductor Dr. Joseph Amante y Zapata, will bring the poignant piece ‘Sheltering Voices’ by Stephanie Ann Boyd, to life with the women’s voices of Coro Amante and soprano soloist, Krista Wilhelmsen. ’Sheltering Voices’ was commissioned in 2018 by the Boston based Eureka Ensemble for the Women’s Chorus which partnered with the ‘Women’s Lunch Place’. ‘Sheltering Voices’ is based on the poem by Jessica Lynn Suchon about the experience of homelessness for women.

The closing work is the revolutionary Symphony in E Minor, Op. 32, the ‘Gaelic Symphony’ by American composer Amy Cheney Beach. She was inspired by Antonin Dvořák’s unique blending of his homeland’s Bohemian folk songs with American themes. Amy Beach, in her ‘Gaelic Symphony’, has interlaced old English, Scottish, and Irish melodies with American musical genres. The Gaelic Symphony was the first symphony by an American composer to use folk songs as themes. This symphony, written in 1896, was also the first symphony composed and published by an American woman composer. dmission is ‘Pay what you think is fair.’ Please help to support the RI food bank by bringing a non-perishable food item.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit NaBSCO’s website, www.nabsco.org or call 401-274-4578.

The Piecemakers Quilt Show

Saturday, October 28, 2023

9:00AM-2:00PM

Sponsored by The Piecemakers Quilt Group

Seekonk Congregational Church

600 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk, MA

Admission: $5.00 per person

Featured Quilter: Brenda Devine

You’re Invited to View Our Quilted Fabric Art...Over 100 Quilts on Display! Challenge Projects, Quilter’s Boutique, Bargain Table, Quilter’s Café with Lunch & Snacks, See our Starry Night Christmas Quilt! Tickets available at the show.

Joseph Amante y Zapata, Choral Director Krista Wilhelmsen, soprano

Kristo Kondakci, Music Director, and Coro Amante

DIVORCE BASICS

The topic of divorce planning is expansive. I will cover some of the basics in this article. Please note I am not an attorney and strongly advise all clients to have legal counsel.

If your divorce is civil and your spouse is amenable, mediation is typically the least expensive route. However, there are a couple of downsides you need to be aware of. Most importantly, a mediator’s role is to be unbiased, which means they are not acting or focused on what is in your personal best interest. In addition, mediators often will not provide legal advice or specific direction. Because of this, it is generally recommended that each spouse also retain their own legal counsel. This can be done on a limited basis to keep costs down. For example, your attorney’s role may be limited to reviewing a draft settlement agreement.

There are four main areas involved in a divorce settlement.

Asset/Debt Division. You will need to decide who will own and owe your assets and debts once your divorce is final. Massachusetts is an equitable law state, which means your divorce has to be equitable. Equitable is not the same thing as equal. Generally, you both walk away with roughly the same value. Determining the specifics can be overwhelming. For example, will you sell your house or will one of you keep it? If you keep it, how will the other spouse be compensated for their share of the equity? It is common for one spouse to have more money in retirement and investment accounts. There are processes to transfer retirement money from one spouse to the other in divorce. One common vehicle is a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO). QDROs are legal documents, so there is added time and money to utilize them. One benefit of a QDRO is the receiving spouse can pull money out of the QDRO without having to pay a 10% penalty that typically applies if you access funds before the age of 59 ½.

Support Payments. In many cases, one spouse is ordered to make support payments to the other. This can either be in the form of child support and/or alimony payments. In Massachusetts, child support is typically paid until the child graduates college. It also can end once your child graduates high school, provided they are working full time. In contrast, alimony is paid for a period of time

based on the length of your marriage. A recent court case, known as the Cavanaugh case, requires the court to consider both child support and alimony. In the past, alimony rarely applied if the parties had children.

Parenting Plan. If you have minor children, a parenting plan will be a major part of your divorce agreement. There are parent coaches that can assist in creating one. A good parenting plan will cover everything from which parent has primary custody, when each parent spends time with the children, what happens on holidays, who makes decisions about summer camps, how large expenses are split and much more.

Other areas. There are several miscellaneous areas also addressed in most divorces. A couple of common ones are what happens with health insurance and how much life insurance each spouse must maintain. One critical area is who will receive tax benefits if children are involved. Tax planning is critical as it can save thousands of dollars in taxes each year. In most cases, the benefits are split. For example, if you have two children, each spouse receives tax benefits for one child. Or, if there is one child, you take turns each year receiving tax benefits.

Why work with a CDFA? A lawyer is obviously a critical party to assist with the legal implications of decisions and options. An equally important party is your Certified Divorce Financial Advisor (CDFA). Your CDFA should be comfortable with laws and rules but does not provide legal advice. His/her expertise is to help you make financial decisions, including the pros and cons of each option and tax implications. CDFAs should also have software to assist in calculating support payments, including Cavanaugh calculations. Having a CDFA on your team generally lowers your legal fees, as your CDFA can typically produce court financial statements for you at a significantly lower cost than your attorney. Lastly, CDFAs should have special software to value pensions if you and/or your spouse has one.

Written by Lars Lambrecht,

CFP, CLU, BFA, AMPA, CDFA, CLTC. Lars is a Rehoboth resident and Private Wealth Advisor.

ChurCh News & eveNts

Christmas in the Village

November 3rd, 4 PM – 8 PM

November 4th, 9 AM – 3 PM

Rehoboth Congregational Church Bazaar

139 Bay State Road, Rehoboth

Meals:

• Friday Sit-Down Turkey Supper (Pre-order) 5:30 PM

• Saturday Luncheon

In-Person shopping at the Church & Goff Hall! Bake Shoppe, Cookie Walk & Pie Girls, Silent Auction, Wreath Raffle, Kids Craft & Shop (Sat. only), Unique Boutique, Woodworkers Room & Mrs. Claus’ Closet

Visit RCCBAZAAR.ORG to order your meals!

Holiday Craft Fair

November 4, 2023

St. Nicholas of Myra Church

St. Nicholas of Myra Women’s Guild is sponsoring a Holiday Craft Fair on November 4, 2023 from 9 AM to 2 PM at St. Nicholas of Myra Church, 499 Spring Street, North Dighton, MA. There will be a Roll-up table, Bake table, and many crafters. Homemade soup and sandwiches will be sold from the kitchen. Tables are available. For further information, call Liz Mullaney at 508-212-0375

Rehoboth Congregational Church News Worship With Us Every Sunday

The Rehoboth Congregational Church worships every Sunday at 10AM. Join us for a wonderful blend of traditional worship with a modern twist. We sing, we laugh, and we enjoy the fellowship of one another’s company while strengthening our faith and serving others. If you are traveling or not quite ready for crowds, you can still worship with us! Our Sunday services are live streamed both on our website www.rehobothcongregational.org/worshiponline and on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/rehobothcongregational

Soup Supper

The RCC Soup Supper is BACK!! Our annual Soup Supper, hosted by the RCC Missions Committee, returns on Saturday, October 21st, from 6:00pm to 8:30pm in Fellowship Hall. All You Can Eat! Tickets must be reserved through the Church Office: 508-2524545. We will also be holding a Bake Sale that evening for all your dessert cravings. Proceeds from the supper will support all of our Missions activities in Rehoboth and our neighboring communities.

Save The Date

The Annual RCC Christmas Bazaar is happening on November 4th and 5th .You don’t want to miss this event! Friday, Nov. 3rd from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm and Saturday, Nov. 4th , from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. There is something for everyone to enjoy at the Bazaar, as we fill the Sunday School classrooms and Goff Hall with shops featuring handmade goods, delicious baked goods, and a silent auction. The famous Turkey Supper will be held on Friday night! Lunch will be available in Fellowship Hall on Saturday. See you there!

Thanks to the most recent advances in laser dentistry, many dental procedures can now be completed without the need for anesthetics, vibration or the disconcerting whine of the dental drill. Dr. Alan Merchanthouse employs just such technology in a relaxing country setting in Rehoboth. For the highest quality dental care – furnished by a highly trained and friendly staff of dental professionals – call (508) 252-6121 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Alan Merchanthouse.

Dr. Gabriel Wassouf

Dr. Gabriel Wassouf

Dr. Alicia Tavares

Seekonk Congregational Church

In Person Sunday Services

We hope you will join us each Sunday at Seekonk Congregational Church UCC at one of our 2 weekly services - 9AM & 10:30 AM in the Sanctuary at 600 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk, MA for our weekly service. Please come if you feel comfortable, all are welcome, masks are optional. Communion will be served at both services. Church school will be held during the 9 AM service with licensed day care available for both services. We invite you to join us.

We will continue to record our services and they are available the following day at Seekonk Congregational Church YouTube and on Cable 9 Seekonk at 9 AM each morning.

Upcoming Events/Activities

• Friday October 6, 2023, 5:30 – 9 PM National Faith & Blue Weekend Join the Seekonk Police and Seekonk churches for a free combined annual event. Cookout, Family Friendly Movie, Bounce House, UTV rides, Games, Playground & more. Event location is Faith Christian Center 95 Sagamore Road. Fun for all ages.

• Saturday, October 14, 2023 - 8:30AM – NOON Church Yard Sale Inside Woodworth Hall – all are welcome to attend.

• Saturday October 21, 2023 – 3 PM to 6 PM Trunk or Treat Walk – Thru the Fall River Ave. Parking Lot & receive Treats from Trunks! Inside: Kiddie Games, Kiddie Crafts & Snack Bar. Free Entrance All are invited to attend. Any questions contact Kristin Putney 774-991-1555

• Saturday, October 28, 2023 – 9 AM – 2 PM Quilt Show… The Piecemakers Quilt Show Admission: $5.00. Over 100 quilts on display. Quilter’s Boutique, drawings for baskets, bargain table… Quilter’s Cafe and more. See our Starry Night Christmas Quilt & so many more!

Available

100TH ANNIVERSARY FUNDRAISER

• Saturday, November 4, 2023 - HARVEST DINNER - Buffet serving from 5:00 to 6:30PM. Eat in or Take Out. MENU: Baked Ham, Mashed Potatoes, Butternut Squash, Harvard Beets, Onions, Cole Slaw, Rolls & Butter and Apple Bread Pudding…TICKET PRICES: Adults $15.00 and Children (ages 5-12) $6.00. RESERVATIONS are SUGGESTED. For tickets or information please contact the Church Office at 508-336-9355 or Donna Euell at donna.euell@ gmail.com or 401-523-5283.

• Saturday, December 2, 2023 – 9 AM – 2 PM CHRISTMAS BAZAAR

No matter who you are, or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome at Seekonk Congregational Church.

Newman, UCC News Fall Family Folk Dance

Sunday, November 5, 2023 from 4-6:30pm

All dances will be called by Caller and Fiddler Henry Chapin. The dances will be simple to follow, inspired by traditional New England Community dances and infused with traditions from Africa, Eastern Europe and the Americas.

All you really need to do is join in! The music will be played by local musicians.

The dances will include Squares, longways Contra-style reels, big circle dances, couple dances with an occasional dance for three, and Play-Party song dances. The point is to enjoy the community of people.

Henry Chapin lives in Providence and has been involved in the New England Contradance world for many years. He is a Fiddler and Caller with lots of experience making sure folks who don’t think they know how to dance to feel comfortable and included. Chapin first experienced these traditions at Pinewoods Camp in Plymouth, MA. Born in New York, Chapin made his home in the Boston area and played with Yankee Ingenuity, a popular band under the direction of Caller Tony Parkes. Migrating to Vermont, he played in the dance trio Wellspring for monthly evenings in Vermont Town Halls and Granges. Returning to his native New York, Henry called for many schools and community centers with the Carnegie Hill Band. Throughout his career, he has always connected with schools and Arts-in-Education programs, as a Vermont Touring Artist through the Vermont Council on the Arts, and later as Fiddler-in-Residence in New York City schools.

The Fall Family Folk Dance will take place on Sunday, November 5, 2023 from 4-6:30pm. The public is cordially invited and there is a suggested donation of $5/person with a $25 maximum per family. Refreshments will be available for purchase.

A DIFFERENT KIND OF CATHOLIC!

A DIFFERENT KIND OF CATHOLIC!

Racial Justice Book Discussion

As part of Newman Congregational Church, United Church of Christ’s ongoing commitment to education and dialogue on structural racism and white supremacy, we invite the wider community to participate in our monthly book discussions.

The book group meets using the Zoom platform on Monday evenings from 7pm to 8:30pm EST over three consecutive weeks. Our October discussion of “#SAYHERNAME” by Kimberlé Crewshaw will be held on the following three consecutive Monday evenings; October 2, 9, & 16.

Interested in participating? Visit our website to register at newmanucc.org/ministries/racial-justice.

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.

Holy Cross Catholic Church

Holy Cross Catholic Church

141 Hornbine Road, Rehoboth, MA

141 Hornbine Road, Rehoboth, MA

An Independent community worshipping in the Catholic Tradition.

An Independent community worshipping in the Catholic Tradition.

Please join us for Mass on Sundays at 10:30 a.m.

Newman Congregational Church, UCC is located at 100 Newman Avenue, Rumford, RI. For more info, to become a sponsor, or to reserve tickets, please call the church office at (401) 434-4742 x10

Please join us for Mass on Sundays at 10:30 a.m.

We are an all-inclusive parish where all are welcome!

We are an all-inclusive parish where all are welcome!

www.

Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Church Annual “Holiday Fair” 2023

Friday, Nov 10 & Saturday, Nov 11

Coyle Drive (Off Rte. 152), Seekonk, MA 02771

Open 10 am - 4 pm on both days in the church basement.

“Super Raffles” include Cash Prizes, HDTV, and Amazon Gift Card. Also, our famous “Baskets Galore”, Kim’s Special Raffles, Scratch Tickets, Gift Cards, and more. Items for sale will be Jewelry, Christmas Decor, Toys, Hand Knits, Baked Goods, Almost New Items, and more.

Our “Cafe” will be open for food and drinks on both days.

Please join us and enjoy fun for all ages!

Disabled accessible.

Community Covenant Church News

Are you looking for help and hope? Every week at Community Covenant Church, we strive to bring that to everyone who walks through our door through the good news of the gospel of Jesus. Through relevant preaching and modern worship that engages all ages from birth to empty nesters. For more information on our programs and current sermon series, check out www.communitycovenant.church. We hope to see you in person or online this Sunday at 10am.

GriefShare: If you’ve lost a spouse, child, family member, or friend, you’ve probably found there are not many people who understand the deep hurt you feel. This can be a confusing time when you feel isolated and have many questions about things you’ve never faced before. It may be hard for you to feel optimistic about the future right now. GriefShare is a group which meets weekly to help you face these challenges and move toward rebuilding your life. GriefShare integrates video seminars, group discussions and personal study and reflection to help you recover from your loss and look forward to rebuilding your life. GriefShare is a 13 session DVD based program and will meet at Community Covenant Church in Rehoboth, MA on Sundays from 4-6:00pm beginning October 1st and running through December 17th. GriefShare is open to all. Please register at https://cccrehoboth.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/1894903

RCC Cornhole Tournament

RCC Cornhole Tournament on Saturday, October 14th at the Hillside Country Club! The tiki bar opens at 11:00 AM. The tournament will take place from 1-6pm. Check-in begins at 1pm and the bags fly at 2pm.

First prize - $1,000. Second prize - $500 Third prize - $250 There will be a 50/50 raffle and terrific door prizes awarded during the tournament!

Christmas in the Village

CHURCH

NOVEMBER 3RD, 4PM-8PM

NOVEMBER 4TH, 9AM-3PM Meals

139 BAY STATE ROAD, REHOBOTH

Friday Sit-Down Turkey Supper (Pre-Order) 5:30 pm

Saturday Luncheon

In-person shopping at the church & Goff Hall!

Bake Shoppe, Cookie Walk & Pie Girls

Silent Auction, Wreath Raffle, Kids Craft & Shop (SAT Only)

Unique Boutique, Woodworkers Room & Mrs. Claus’ Closet

VISIT RCCBAZAAR.ORG TO ORDER YOUR MEALS!

News and Notes from.... Blanding Library

By Leslie Patterson

Annual Book Sale Oct. 6-8

Fri. Oct. 6: Friends Preview, 5-7

Sat. Oct. 7: General Sale, 10-3

Sun. Oct. 8: Close-out sale, 12-3 Raffle prize drawing at 3 pm Sun. All proceeds to benefit library

“Star-Crossed” Author Talk

The Blanding will host an author visit on Thurs. Oct. 12 at 6:30. Heather Dune Macadam and Simon Worrall will discuss their new book, “Star Crossed: A True Romeo and Juliet Story in Hitler’s Paris”. An epic story of love and resistance during the Nazi occupation of France, it tells the tragic story of a Catholic Resistance fighter and a Holocaust victim who meet and fall in love in Paris. Copies of the book will be available for purchase at the event.

Halloween Happenings

Author Barry Lee Dejasu will visit the Blanding on Tues. Oct. 24 at 6:30. Enjoy a spooky evening with this long-time Rehoboth resident as he shares his tales of the dark, the weird, and the horrific, reading from his short story collection, “Black City Skyline and Darker Horizons”. He plans to share a story that takes place in Rehoboth, about a certain red-headed phantom hitchhiker on Rt. 44. Copies of the book will be available for purchase.

“Chilling Tales”: More Halloween fun will take place on Mon. Oct. 30 at 6:30. Cozy up with a cup of cider as readers share spooky stories and poems in dimly lit Goff Hall. For ages 12 and up.

Let’s Go on a Spider Hunt! Come to the library for a spider hunt from Oct. 16-31. Prizes will be awarded to those who find 15 or more spiders, or find them all for an extra challenge!

Story Times & Legos

Story & Craft Hour for children ages 3 and up continues on Thursdays from 10:30 to 11:30. Baby and Toddler story times are on Tuesdays from 10:30 to 11. Siblings are welcome at both programs. No registration necessary for programs. The next Legos at the Library will be from 11 to 2 on Sat. Oct. 21.

Puppet Show Nov. 7

Pumpernickel Puppets presents “Sir George and the Dragon” for children ages 3 and up on Tues. Nov. 7 from 2 to 3pm. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Blanding Library.

History Group Returns

Hank Coleman is continuing his history discussion group at the library on Wednesdays mornings at 11. In the coming weeks, Hank will focus on the pace of human activity following the Civil War and events unfolding in Europe during the last decades of the Nineteenth Century and their dramatic impact on social, political, economic and military structures. This group is open to all with an interest in history. For more details, contact hjcoleman@comcast.net.

The Blanding Public Library, 124 Bay State Rd. Rehoboth is open Monday through Thursday from 10 to 8, and on Friday and Saturday from 10 to 4. Closed on Sundays and holidays, including Mon. Oct. 9. Visit www.blandinglibrary.net or call 508-252-4236.

RD Chimney Sweep

Barry Lee Dejasu will read stories from his book “Black City Skyline and Darker Horizons” at the Blanding Library on Oct. 24 at 6:30.

Seekonk Public Library

Solar Eclipse Trivia Night

Wednesday, October 11 at 6 PM

Calling all Solar Scientists and Sci-fi movie fans! Join us at the Seekonk Library for a night of family-friendly trivia in our Solar Eclipse Trivia Night on Wednesday, October 11 at 6 PM. You’ll enjoy our black light trivia night as we learn more about the October 14, 2023 partial eclipse with bonus sci-fi facts! We’ll also decorate eclipse viewing glasses under the black light; wear your white or neon for extra fun! Play individually or as a team (four people max). You will need to bring a phone or tablet with the free Kahoot app installed or a web browser that can go to www.kahoot.it (no account needed). Space is limited; registration with a SAILS library card is required. Register and get links to study for the quiz in the Events Calendar at ww.seekonkpl.org/events.

For more event information or help registering, visit www. seekonkpl.org, email library@seekonkpl.org, or call Adult Services at 508-336-8230 x56130.

Library Tech Class: Google Calendar

October 17 at 2 PM

Do you want to get more out of your smartphone or tablet? Bring them to our new monthly Library Tech Class. In each session we will provide an introduction to the most useful tools available to use on your mobile device or help getting started. Join us for the first session, Library Tech Class: Google Calendar on Tuesday, October 17 from 2-3:30 PM in the library’s Large Meeting Room. Come to this class to find out how Google Calendar can help keep you on schedule. This program is open to smartphone, tablet, and laptop users. You must bring your own device, one device per person; make sure the device is fully charged. Space is limited; registration is required. Register in the Events Calendar at www. seekonkpl.org/events.

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

2D Design for Adults: Paper Cut Lanterns

Saturday, October 21 at 10:00 AM

As the end of the year approaches, the days are getting shorter and the nights are getting colder. If you’re looking for ways to bring a little light into your life, come to Seekonk Library on Saturday, October 21 at 10:00 AM to create personalized decorations in the form of intricate cut-paper lanterns. Learn how to operate a Silhouette Cameo 4 cutting machine and free Silhouette Studio software to design your customized lantern based on a simple template. Choose any theme you wish: spooky Halloween, cozy winter warmth, or even inspirational words or images. The possibilities are literally endless! Each participant will be able to make multiple lanterns as time permits and will take home two battery-operated tealight candles to use with them. Participants are encouraged to bring their own Windows or Mac laptop and download the free design software for use during the program.

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

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

Nonfiction Book Club: The Good Good Pig by Sy Montgomery

Tuesday, October 24th at 6:00 PM

Join us for a lively discussion of The Good Good Pig: The Extraordinary Life of Christopher Hogwood by Sy Montgomery on Tuesday, October 24th at 6:00 PM at Seekonk Public Library. The title is available digitally as an ebook and audiobook through Libby, an audiobook through Hoopla, or you may place a hold and pick up a print copy at the library. New members are always welcome!

A naturalist who spent months at a time living on her own among wild creatures in remote jungles, author Montgomery was more comfortable with animals than with people. So she gladly opened her heart to a sick piglet, with no inkling that this piglet would not only survive but flourish--and she soon found herself engaged with her small-town community in ways she had never dreamed possible.

Unexpectedly, Christopher provided this traveler with something she had sought all her life: an anchor to family and home. This book celebrates Christopher Hogwood in all his glory, with his boundless zest for life and his large, loving heart, a great big Buddha master. Sy reveals what she and others learned from this generous soul who just so happened to be a pig--lessons about self-acceptance, the meaning of family, the value of community, and the pleasures of the sweet green Earth.

For more event information, visit www.seekonkpl.org or email library@seekonkpl.org.

Virtual MA Museum Tour: Hammond Castle

Thursday, October 26 at 1 PM

Did you know there are castles in Massachusetts? Join us to explore a local castle from the comfort of your own home in the program Virtual MA Museum Tour: Hammond Castle on Thursday, October 26 at 1 PM. This program is presented online using Zoom. Go to the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org for registration information.

In this presentation, John Leysath, curator at Hammond Castle Museum, will be your guide to the unique, medieval-style home and museum of noted scientist John Hays Hammond Jr., his collection of artifacts, and his remarkable life. Mr. Hammond was one of the most prolific inventors in U.S. history, and registered over 500 patents throughout his career. Known as “the father of radio control,” Hammond was a pioneer in many technologies, including television and sound recording. He counted among his friends and mentors Thomas Edison, Nikola Tesla, and Alexander Graham Bell. He was also a collector of ancient, medieval, and Renaissance artifacts, and built his castle-like home in Gloucester, Massachusetts in the late 1920s. Learn more about this renown scientist through the unique collection in this castle museum.

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

Celebrate the Freedom to Read at Seekonk Library

Wed, October 4th

3:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Grab your book of choice and a lounge chair or blanket and head to the library lawn anytime between 3 and 7 PM (or meeting room in case of rain) for Let Freedom Read, a statewide read-in to celebrate the freedom to read.

Digital participation is also welcomed. Download an eBook or audiobook through www.seekonkpl.org and use #LetFreedomReadMA to post pictures to social media.

According to the American Library Association, there were 45 book challenges in Massachusetts in 2022 affecting 57 titles. That’s more than the past 9 years (2013-2021) combined which totaled 38 challenges. Nationwide, ALA reported 1,270 book challenges in 2022, up significantly from 350 in 2019. The Massachusetts Library Association, Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioncontinued on next page...

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ers, the Massachusetts Library System, and the Massachusetts School Library Association recently released a statement in support of libraries and intellectual freedom. Individuals can show their support by signing on at tinyurl.com/supporting-libraries. Join us to read books and celebrate the freedom to read.

Let Freedom Read is supported by your local library and the Joint Task Force for Intellectual Freedom with members from the Massachusetts Library Association, Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners, the Massachusetts Library System, and the Massachusetts School Library Association.

This is an all ages event. For more event information, visit www.seekonkpl.org or email library@seekonkpl.org.

Virtual Career Coaching for Job Seekers Age 50+ Wednesdays, October to December 2023

If you are age 50+ and unemployed, underemployed, seeking a new career, or looking for your “Encore Career,” this free career coaching and networking program is for you! Seekonk Public Library invites you to join the ongoing program 50+ Job Seekers Networking Group: Virtual Series on Wednesdays, October through December 2023. This program is presented online using Zoom. You can attend one or more sessions, choosing from either morning or evening meeting times. Each session covers a different topic:

October: Resumes: The Basics

Resumes: Beyond the Basics

November: Thinking Outside The Box

Interview Strategies & Preparation

December: Networking 2.0

Creating A Marketing Plan & Brief

The facilitator for this series is certified career coach Deborah Hope. Go to the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org for registration information.

For information, visit www.seekonkpl.org, email library@seekonkpl.org or call 508-3368230.

Meet the Authors in a Virtual Series This October

If you enjoy historical fiction and mysteries or enjoy hearing the inside story on the creation of a good book, you’ll enjoy the Meet the Author: Virtual Q&A Series offered by Seekonk Library in collaboration with area libraries. This program is presented online using Zoom. Join us for these October sessions:

Denny S. Bryce for The Other PRINCESS

Tuesday, October 10 at 7 PM

The historical fiction novel, The Other PRINCESS (release date 10/3/23), is a stunning portrait of an African princess raised in Queen Victoria’s court and adapting to life in Victorian England, based on the real-life story of rediscovered historical figure Sarah Forbes Bonetta.

Andrea Penrose for Murder at the Merton Library

Thursday, October 12 at 7 PM

Bestselling author of Regency-era historical fiction, (think Pride & Prejudice) Andrea Penrose, also known as Andrea Pickens and Cara Elliott, introduces her latest tale Murder at the Merton Library. Go to the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org for registration information. Share with fellow readers and register now for the final upcoming sessions:

Tue 11/7 – Lee Goldberg for Calico

Wed 11/15 – Virgina Pye

for The Literary Undoing of Victoria Swann

Book clubs are welcome!

For information, visit www.seekonkpl.org, email library@ seekonkpl.org or call 508-336-8230.

See Page 81 for Youth Programs

College Savings Vehicles

Written by Lars Lambrecht, CFP, CLU, BFA, AMPA, CDFA,

The current cost of a UMass Amherst education is more than $30,000 annually. Boston College tuition is more than $80,000 annually! It can be overwhelming to think about this, and quite easy to procrastinate on getting started. I encourage clients to start sooner than later. You can start a college fund with as little as $1,000 or $100 per month. Start something today, and then slowly increase savings each year as your cash flow allows. This approach can take a significant dent out of college costs.

529 Plans: The most popular (and often the best) vehicle for college savings is a 529 Plan. Money invested in a 529 plan grows TAX FREE if it is utilized for qualified education expenses. This can make a huge impact if your children are young. For example, if you invest $10,000 when your child is 3 years old, and it grows at an 8% return, you would have over $30,000 when s/he is 18 years old. The $20,000 of growth is generally tax-free!

As I mentioned, 529 plans must be used for qualified education expenses. Most educational institutions meet this definition. In other words, it can be used for college, trade school, graduate school, etc. There is no limit on what can be withdrawn from a 529 plan for higher education. 529 funds can also be used for private Kindergarten through Grade 12 education, but you are limited to $10,000 annually.

The major downside of a 529 plan is that all of it must be used for education expenses. If not, you need to pay taxes on the growth PLUS a 20% penalty! There is flexibility regarding who the 529 plan can be used for. For example, if you have plans for your two children and one of them does not go to college, the accounts can be consolidated for the child attending college. You can also use the funds for education of yourself, your nephew, your grandchild, etc. Congress recently passed new legislation (SECURE 2.0 Act) that allows unused money in a 529 plan to be converted to a Roth IRA. We are still waiting for the IRS to provide clarity on the rules,

CLTC. Lars is a Rehoboth resident and Private Wealth Advisor. and there are some strings attached, but this new provision may be a great option for leftover money in a 529 plan.

Roth IRA: Roth IRAs are excellent and flexible vehicles that can be used to purchase real estate, finance college expenses and fund your retirement. You are generally able to withdraw the amount that you invest in a Roth IRA for any reason, without incurring taxes or penalties. For example, if you contributed $20,000 and it grew to $30,000, you can generally pull the $20,000 out for any purpose. Up to $10,000 of growth can be used to purchase qualified real estate. Any of the earnings can be used to pay college costs. If you are using earnings for a home purchase or college expenses, you need to pay income taxes on the growth, but there is no penalty. If you let your Roth IRA grow until you are 59 ½, you can withdraw the growth tax-free! I love Roth IRAs because they have these cool features and can serve multiple purposes. There are income limits to be able to contribute to a Roth IRA, and you are limited in the amount you can invest in one. Higher income earners are sometimes able to do a “Back Door Roth.” This strategy is a bit too complex for the scope of this article, but something to discuss with your financial advisor.

UTMA Accounts:Uniform Transfers to Minor Act (UTMA) Accounts used to be popular, but are rarely used these days. There are two primary disadvantages of UTMAs. First and foremost, if your child qualifies for financial aid, money held in UTMAs can hinder aid your child might receive. Secondly, when your child turns 21, any money in the UTMA legally becomes theirs. There are some tax advantages with UTMAs. A portion of the earnings are not taxed, and a portion of the earnings are taxed at your child’s tax bracket.

College planning is an expansive topic. The three vehicles discussed in this article should serve as a starting point to discuss with your financial advisor. Future articles will cover other aspects of college planning including what drives financial aid, college financing options and loan programs.

SCHOOL NEWS

Seekonk High School Announces

Caitlin Pereira as New Girls Varsity Basketball and Volleyball Coach

Seekonk — Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell and Principal William Whalen are pleased to announce that Seekonk High School Physical Education teacher Caitlin Pereira has been selected as the new girls varsity basketball and volleyball coach.

Pereira accepted her new role as the girls varsity basketball coach on Friday, Sept. 22. She also accepted the role of girls varsity volleyball coach this past May.

Coach Pereira, a 2006 Seekonk High School graduate and long-time Seekonk resident, has spent the past 14 years teaching physical education and 13 years coaching junior varsity volleyball in the district. She previously coached the Seekonk High School girls junior varsity basketball team in 2010.

Prior to being appointed as the varsity basketball coach, Pereira was heavily involved in the Seekonk basketball community. She met her now-husband through the Seekonk High School basketball program when they played alongside each other in high school. In high school, her husband, Andrew, scored 1,000 points throughout his basketball career.

Their love for basketball has stayed with them even after high school with Caitlin Pereira serving as a coach for the recreational basketball team in town and working the scoreboard for basketball games for the past 10 years. She has also served as a Seekonk Youth Basketball Board member since 2021 where she runs and oversees the development of its K-1 basketball program.

Outside of basketball and volleyball, Pereira has also coached youth and high school softball.

She received a bachelor’s degree from Springfield College and a master’s degree from Western Kentucky University. While at Springfield College, Pereira played on the basketball, softball and volleyball teams.

OPEN HOUSE

Saturday, October 28, 2023 • 10 am – 12 noon

CHILDREN ARE ENCOURAGED TO ATTEND!

“Caitlin has a deep connection to the Seekonk High School community and our different athletic programs having both coached and played within them,” Principal Whalen said. “She has shown a tremendous level of commitment to supporting and growing our teams, and I look forward to watching her serve as the varsity coach for both the girls varsity basketball and volleyball teams this year. I wish her and her teams a successful season!”

Books in Seekonk Schools

By Joe Siegel

Seekonk Schools Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell said the district is receptive to parents’ concerns about books which may contain objectionable content.

“We do not have a list of books that parents might find unsuitable,” Kidwell said via e-mail on Monday. “We maintain a library catalog based on best practices from the AASL (American Association of School Librarians), the MSLA (Massachusetts School Library Association), and school-accrediting bodies like NEASC and NELMS.”

Many school districts around the country have either removed or banned books after complaints from parents about inappropriate content. According to PEN America, “Overwhelmingly, book banners continue to target stories by and about people of color and LGBTQ+ individuals.”

“School book bans take varied forms, and can include prohibitions on books in libraries or classrooms, as well as a range of other restrictions, some of which may be temporary,” PEN noted. “Book removals that follow established processes may still improperly target books on the basis of content pertaining to race, gender, or sexual orientation, invoking concerns of equal protection in education.”

“We currently have in place policies for review of library or curriculum materials that may be of concern,” Kidwell noted. “We also follow the guidance that families should always be aware of the materials in use in the classroom. Teachers share this through their open house presentations, emails, and newsletters. We encourage families to talk with teachers if they have specific concerns about content or topics in the curriculum.”

Kidwell said there has been only one complaint lodged so far this year. That complaint was resolved when the teacher said they were willing to speak with the parent about the books their child selected to read.

Kidwell explained teachers of courses that include sexual health topics have communicated to families at the start of the year, and families who wish to opt their child out of those lessons may communicate with the teacher directly.

“There are currently no lessons at the elementary level which include sexual health topics,” Kidwell said, adding the district “strives to be transparent and proactive in communication with families about skills, content, and activities in the classroom.”

Palmer River & Beckwith Annual Trunk or Treat Fundraiser

Brown Play School is a nursery school for 3 –5 year olds. We utilize an emergent curriculum based on the highly regarded Reggio Emilia philosophy.

Please call 435-0126 or check our website: www.brownplayschool.org for more information.

Candy – Food Trucks - Hayrides - Music

Touch a Truck – & More!

Saturday, October 21st from 5:00PM – 8:00PM at DR High School. Tickets are $5 each Kid and Adults; buy tickets online by October 19 at www.Rehobothptsa.org (tickets will be $8 after October 19th).

Coach Pereira

Retaining Students for Dighton-Rehoboth

By Joe Siegel

The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District has hired two retention coordinators in an effort to encourage students to attend D-R Regional High School instead of going to other districts.

Last March, Superintendent Bill Runey cited a dramatic decline in enrollment in the district, with a third of all eighth grade middle school students opting not to attend DightonRehoboth Regional High School. “That is unacceptable,” Runey said. “We have a great high school.”

The job responsibilities for the retention coordinators include:

• Develop and implement recruitment strategies to attract students to the Dighton Rehoboth Regional School District and promote its unique advantages including but not limited to Honors and AP classes, Career and Technical Education (CTE) offerings, a nationally recognized Performing Arts program, and a full complement of athletics and activities.

• Coordinate with school counselors, teachers, and administrators to identify students who may be at risk of leaving the district and implement retention strategies to work to ensure they remain in the district.

• Collaborate with community organizations, businesses, and other stakeholders to develop partnerships and initiatives that support recruitment and retention efforts.

• Organize, coordinate, and collaborate with DRRHS staff on events and activities that showcase the district and its programs, such as open houses, CTE shadow days, parent information nights, and student orientation programs.

• Maintain a database of prospective and current students and track their progress through the recruitment and retention process.

• Provide ongoing support and guidance to students and families as they navigate the transition to high school.

• Collaborate with the high school administration to ensure that middle school students are prepared for the academic and social challenges of high school.

• Survey middle school students and their families to gain relevant insights including those that reflect their choice of high school.

The retention coordinators are located at each middle school in the district. They are being paid a stipend of $3694.

All Girls. Independent. Catholic. College Preparatory. Preschool to Grade 12. Academic excellence since 1874.

Annual Winter Craft Fair

Calling all Crafters & Vendors! Join us for our Annual Winter Craft Fair on Friday, December 1st. Event will be held at Beckwith Middle School from 5:30PM-8:30PM. Visit rehobothptsa.org to reserve your space today.

Beckwith Middle School News

On September 14th, the Bristol County Savings Bank came to Beckwith Middle School to kick-off their Saving Makes Cents Program to our 5th graders. This program developed by the Massachusetts State Treasurer’s Office in 1993, teaches students the fundamentals of money management. Participating students will receive a Passbook Savings account, including an initial deposit from the Bank, to help them put the skills they have been taught into practice.

Fall Home Improvement

6 Key Steps For Planning A Kitchen Remodel

(BPT) - Designing your dream kitchen is an exciting endeavor, but it requires careful planning and consideration. Follow these six essential steps to ensure you create a kitchen that perfectly fits your lifestyle and needs.

* Assess your lifestyle: Consider how you use your kitchen. Are you an avid cook? Is it a family gathering space? Do you often host large groups? Understanding your lifestyle will help guide your design choices.

* Evaluate your existing kitchen: Take a close look at your current kitchen. Identify what you love and what needs improvement. Think about storage, prep surfaces, and any changes you want to make.

* Set your budget: Determine a realistic budget for your project. Prioritize your needs over wants, but leave room for upgrades and extra touches that catch your eye.

* Select the right professional: Trust the expertise of a professional who communicates well and understands your vision. A skilled designer can bring your ideas to life and guide you through the process.

* Plan smartly: Measure your kitchen’s size and consider infrastructure concerns like electrical and plumbing. Focus on workflow and customize storage solutions to fit your family’s daily living.

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* Avoid common mistakes: Stay away from overloading with cabinets, ensure sufficient counter space, and invest in quality materials for critical areas like cabinets and countertops. Remember to be patient throughout the process and manage your expectations. Renovating can be stressful, but the end result will be worth it. Take your time and make thoughtful decisions, even if it means leaving some décor choices for later.

Finishing touches for your dream kitchen

To truly transform your kitchen, pay attention to these key finishing touches:

* Lighting: Mix different types of lighting for various purposes. Use ambient lighting for mood, task lighting for meal preparation, and decorative lighting for the island and dining table.

* Barstools: Select comfortable and stylish barstools, ensuring enough space between them for easy movement.

* Hardware: Choose cabinet and drawer knobs and pulls that match your kitchen’s style and size.

* Sinks/faucets: Consider modern features like pull-down spray nozzles, touchless or tap technology, and semi-professional functionality for added convenience.

* Essentials: Install under-cabinet lighting for countertop work areas, backsplashes for the sink and range, and sufficient electrical outlets, including USB ports for family tech.

By following these steps and incorporating these finishing touches, you’ll create a kitchen that not only looks stunning but also functions perfectly for your lifestyle. Remember to trust the professionals, plan

meticulously, and invest in quality materials like Cambria to achieve the kitchen of your dreams. As the finest countertop makers in the worldâ„¢ Cambria has all the design tools, tips and tricks you need to envision your new kitchen all available at Cambriausa.com. Download your kitchen planner tool today.

5 Tips for Organizing Your Home Office

(Family Features) When temperatures creep up again, it signals time for an annual tradition: spring cleaning. While big projects like windows are hard to overlook, don’t forget smaller areas that need attention, too, such as your home office.

Making sense of a year’s worth of paperwork and clutter can take some serious time, especially as many people have been working from home more than normal, but getting organized can help you

tackle home management tasks more efficiently. Making the office a priority can reduce frustration when it comes to spending additional time in your office while working from home.

These five tips can help get you started:

1. Make sure you have furniture that can adequately store your stuff, including plenty of space for files, reference books and computer equipment. Pieces need not be costly to be functional and there are plenty of attractive options available online and at both small and major retailers.

ADRIAN - Supervisor

Call

508-840-3987

2. Arrange the space with its intended use and your own work style in mind. For example, if you don’t need ample space to spread out over a large, flat work area, eliminate that space - it’s simply an invitation for clutter.

3. Place items you rely on frequently, such as a calculator or ruler, within arm’s reach so they can easily be put away between uses. Capture these items in containers and bins to keep the space looking neat and free of clutter.

4. Establish a filing system that lets you keep track of important papers you need to keep and have a shredder handy to help you discard any sensitive documents. Whether you alphabetize, color code or use some other method, group paperwork into segments for categories such as bills, banking, health care, auto, insurance and so on for easy access in the future.

5. Tangled cords can make even the most organized spaces look messy, and they may pose a fire or tripping hazard. Get control of your cords by storing devices you don’t use regularly and securing the remaining cords with twist ties or clips. Remember to use a surge-protected power strip to minimize the chance of damage should a power surge occur.

MH Home Services

Alarms Don’t Last Forever - Remember To Replace

(BPT) - Being a homeowner comes with a lot of responsibilities. Seasonal upkeep, roof and gutter maintenance, plumbing repairs and more can add up - both on your to-do list and in your budget. But many home maintenance projects are simple and inexpensive, and they can help provide peace of mind.

Take smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms, for example. Maintaining these devices is easy - keep them free of dust buildup and test them regularly by simply pressing the test button and waiting for the alarms to sound. On duty 24/7, alarms don’t last forever and need to be replaced at least every 10 years depending on your model.

First Alert, the most trusted name in fire safety*, recommends the following “alarm checklist” to help you and your family protect what matters most.

Test and maintain your alarms. In addition to regular alarm testing, the batteries should be replaced every six months. A good rule of thumb is to change batteries when the majority of Americans adjust their clocks.

Install the proper protection - every level, every bedroom. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends installing alarms on every level of your home, including the basement and inside every bedroom. Because smoke rises, be sure to install alarms high on the wall or ceiling. Don’t install alarms near doors, windows or ducts, where drafts may interfere with their operation.

Alarms don’t last forever - remember to replace. It’s important to select the right alarms for your home. Newer homes are

generally wired for hardwired smoke and CO alarms. When they reach the end of their useful life, replace them with new hardwired alarms. In older homes and apartments without hardwired alarms, when your alarms expire, a convenient upgrade option is a 10-year sealed battery alarm, which eliminates battery replacement and late-night battery chirps for a decade. And, if your alarms are more than 10 years old - or you simply don’t know how old they are - the safest bet is to replace them.

To learn more fire and CO safety tips, or to find a retailer near you, visit firstalert.com.

*First Alert Brand Trust Survey, March 2023 - Results are based on the responses of 1,043 adult homeowners, ages 25 and older, living in the United States who completed an online survey asking them to choose from six brands in the smoke, fire and carbon monoxide protection space.

5 Garage Safety Tips

(Family Features) When you throw open the windows, you’ll likely be spending more time with the garage door open, too. Make access to your outdoor equipment safer with these tips to get your garage ready for the warmer months.

Organizing clutter is part of the process, but warmer weather can also serve as a reminder to make sure your garage equipment and features are secure and functioning properly.

* Your garage floor tends to capture grime and grit from the outdoors, especially where your car sits. Take time to thoroughly sweep and mop, but also take stock of the floor’s condition for any chips or other damage that may grow worse over time and pose a risk for tripping or other safety issues.

* Check your garage door performance. Ensure doors are rolling smoothly with no hitches. If you do happen to notice any abnormalities, it’s a good time to investigate. In some cases, a little grease or a minor adjustment is all you need to get things back on track.

* Don’t forget to check your garage door sensors, too. Warmer weather means animals and children (and their toys) are more likely to find themselves in an automated door’s path when it begins to lower. Ensure sensors are operating properly to prevent injury or property damage.

* Verify all outlets, lights and other electrical features are in proper operating condition and all wires are intact and free of damage or fraying.

* Ensure any poisonous materials, such as paint, garden pesticides, cleaners and automotive fluids, are safely stored out of reach of pets and children that may have increased access to the garage during warmer months. Also check for spills or leaks of any potentially hazardous or flammable materials.

Taking time to safety-proof your garage can provide your family months of stress-free use. Find more tips for getting your garage in order at eLivingtoday.com.

(Family Features) With lower temperatures and milder conditions, fall provides a perfect opportunity to tackle that home renovation to-do list. Whether you plan on making minor improvements or

wholesale changes are on the horizon, taking on a few DIY projects can help you boost your home’s curb appeal (and its value) while also prepping for colder weather in the days ahead.

Making investments now - like putting time and money toward long-term energy efficiency - can pay off down the road, whether you’re planning for a potential sale or simply looking to get more enjoyment out of your home. Plus, many exterior upgrades can be completed by homeowners, meaning there’s no need to hire a professional when it’s time to give your home a refresh.

Beautify those dull areas, boost resale value and add comfort with these ideas from the experts at Westlake Royal Building Products, a manufacturer of high-quality, low-maintenance products designed to meet the specifications and needs of building professionals, homeowners, architects, engineers and distributors.

Add or Replace Shutters

As a classic exterior design element, shutters can add instant charm to your home. With a variety of materials and colors to choose from, you can add shutters that suit your style and budget to give your home a more polished look. If it’s already adorned with shutters, consider updating them with newer styles for a fresh appearance.

Upgrade with Stone Veneer

Natural and textured home trends continue to rise, leading many building pros and homeowners to gravitate toward stone veneer, or manufactured stone, as it can replicate the look of real stone. The wide range of exterior and interior applications means you can add comfort, character and beauty while complementing your existing style. Consider an option like Versetta Stone from Westlake Royal Building Products, which offers homeowners an authentic, handcrafted look in a panelized format that’s easy to install with nails and screws. There’s no need to paint, coat or seal once installed for a low-maintenance solution for accent walls, fireplaces, siding, entryways and walkways.

Refresh Porch Columns

Routine cleaning is one way to maintain porch columns, but if they’re rotting or splitting, consider PVC porch column wraps for a visual transformation. Easy and often affordable, they’re durable and decorative to fit existing columns or poles and can be painted to match your exterior color palette. They’re resistant to pests, moisture

and weather damage for long-lasting and nearly maintenance-free upgrades.

Invest in Insulated Siding

Good insulation is key to keeping your home warm, cozy and weather-proof during colder months. While there are many ways to upgrade the insulation of your house, some homeowners are turning to insulated siding for a long-term solution. Long-lasting, weather-proof, durable and aesthetically pleasing, CraneBoard Solid Core Siding from Westlake Royal Building Products offers a cost-efficient way to beat the cold. It’s low maintenance, built to last and withstands temperature fluctuations and hurricane force winds for a highly functional option to keep cold out for years to come.

Update the Driveway

Whether you’re looking to make some simple updates or it’s time for a complete renovation, showing your driveway some love can significantly improve your home’s curb appeal. Adding an address post with a hanging basket or planting trees, shrubbery or flowers along the sides lends immediate

aesthetic improvement. For added low-light visibility and visual appeal, install lights along the perimeter to help the greenery stand out in the evening. If you’re ready for a major overhaul, consider upgrading the driveway using cobblestone, pavers or stamped concrete.

To find more ways to boost curb appeal this fall, visit WestlakeRoyalBuildingProducts.com. Source: Westlake Royal Building Products

5 Ways to Trim Home Energy Bills

(Family Features) After the mortgage, utility costs, including electricity, likely make up one of the most significant portions of monthly budgets for the typical American household. In fact, according to data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the average residential electric bill in the United States is $143.

However, reducing your family’s energy costs is possible by following some smart, practical, cost-cutting tips from the heating and cooling experts at Mitsubishi Electric. Consider these ways to help dial down your energy bills.

Service HVAC Systems Regularly

To ensure the best performance and efficiency possible, find a licensed contractor to keep your heating and cooling system wellmaintained and serviced throughout the year. There are some tasks many homeowners can handle on their own, like keeping outdoor units free of debris and changing air filters. Some filters are removable and washable, saving you money. However, bringing in a professional 1-2 times a year for maintenance and to ensure proper function of ductwork and electrical components is also essential.

Use Appliances During Non-Peak Hours

Rather than using stoves, ovens and clothing dryers in the afternoon hours, consider doing so early in the morning or late in the evening. Peak time for many electricity providers is noon-6 p.m., meaning using these appliances outside of this timeframe when conventional heating and cooling systems are likely running full throttle can help lower energy costs.

Upgrade Your System

The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) incentivizes homeowners that opt for energy-efficient air-conditioning and heating options to replace fossil-fuel-fired furnaces. This includes upgrading your existing HVAC system to a qualified heat pump. For example, Mitsubishi Electric heat pumps provide more energy-efficient cooling and heating that equals cost and energy savings as well as a reduced carbon footprint for homeowners.

Installing a smart electrical panel alongside an all-electric heat pump enables homeowners to monitor and control energy consumption on-site or remotely using a smartphone for better overall efficiency and utility cost savings.

Harness the Sun’s Energy with Solar Panels

According to the Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, the amount of sunlight that strikes the Earth’s surface in 90 minutes could power the world’s total energy usage for a full year. Investing in solar panels can help decrease energy bills and increase your home’s sustainability. Additionally, some utility providers and government entities, including the IRA, offer incentives to help reduce installation costs.

Avoid Heating or Cooling Unused Spaces

One mistake many homeowners make is forgetting to adjust their temperature settings when leaving the house. Whether you’re headed out for the weekend or just headed to work for the day, running your system in an empty house can result in unnecessarily high utility bills.

Multi-zone, all-electric heat pumps like those from Mitsubishi Electric allow homeowners to set the comfort level and adjust the temperature in each room, reducing the energy waste of cooling unoccupied rooms. With a smartphone app, you can even adjust the settings remotely.

Find more ways to increase energy savings while making your home more sustainable by visiting MitsubishiComfort.com.

Fall In Love With Your Home: 4 Ways To Renovate Indoors This Autumn

(BPT) - Fall is the perfect time to take on some home renovations, before the holidays hit and winter sets in. With just a few changes, you can make your home into a more functional space and create a warm, inviting atmosphere in which you and others will enjoy spending time for many seasons to come.

Let these four home renovation ideas inspire you to spruce up your space this autumn.

1. Make over the mudroom

If you have a mudroom, you know how helpful this space can be during the changing season. Over the course of fall and winter, a mudroom can help keep your house clean and organized by containing the mess of wet coats and dirty boots.

Upgrade your mudroom to make it more functional and easier to maintain. For example, you can incorporate storage solutions to store and organize your boots, add a bench to sit on while you take your shoes off and install hooks to hang your coats.

2. Upgrade your flooring

One way to bring a whole new look to your home is by bringing in new flooring, which can serve as the foundation for all interior styles. And, while there are so many great flooring options to select from, many homeowners today are opting to seek out floors that not only look great but also can stand up to busy households and traffic.

A great option that brings fantastic, real-wood looks coupled with kid-and-pet-proof performance is LL Flooring’s new ReNature by CoreLuxe. This floor is waterproof and resistant to dents, scratches, scuffs, and stains - plus it’s made from 25% recycled materials, another perk for homeowners who prioritize aesthetics, functionality and responsible manufacturing. What’s more, with renovation season upon us, DIY’ers will love this easy-to-install flooring.

“ReNature by CoreLuxe is a perfect flooring solution that unites progressive manufacturing with design ingenuity, resulting in a product that’s both resilient and stylish,” said Jen Meska, Head of Merchandising at LL Flooring. “This flooring is manufactured with a commitment to material reuse, while providing a tough, resilient and waterproof solution for pros and homeowners.”

The company also offers myriad stylish, quality options in solid hardwood and Duravana hybrid resilient flooring, so you can choose the perfect flooring for your fall home renovation project.

3.

Give your fireplace a facelift

As the weather cools down, it’s time to light your fireplace. But before you do, give your fireplace a makeover so you can transform your living room into a relaxing and welcoming space for your friends and family.

Some easy ways to give your fireplace a facelift include updating or replacing the mantel or replacing the current surround with new stone or tile. If you’re feeling ambitious, add a built-in seating area nearby. This seating area makes it easier to enjoy the warmth and glow of the fireplace and acts as a focal point for fall gatherings.

4. Extend your entertaining space outdoors

Don’t limit your entertaining to the indoors. With a few additions, you can easily extend your living or dining room into your outdoor space.

Add a firepit or fire table to your deck or patio so you can have cozy conversations around the fire underneath the stars. Also, consider investing in comfortable outdoor furniture so you can dine outdoors or enjoy drinks surrounded by the fall foliage. These additions make it easy to maximize your time outdoors.

This fall, give your home a little time, love and care. Using these four tips, you’ll be well on your way to turning your home into a space you’ll love to spend time in this season and beyond.

Research Finds Most People Feel ‘Overwhelmed’ by Family’s Mess at Home

(StatePoint) While finances are a main topic that families fight over, a new survey discovers that cleaning and organizing also top the list.

According to the survey, which was conducted by Duck brand, 76% of people feel “overwhelmed” by their family members’ messes. In fact, the research finds that messiness impacts relationships between family members: 46% of people say it causes “tension” between them; 35% say it causes arguments; and 33% say it is a “source of stress on a daily basis.”

Knowing that disorganization impacts relationships, the survey aims to shed light on the source of the stress, as well as pet peeves families have when cleaning and organizing:

• Arguments about tidying up may happen frequently because 74% of people say they have a different idea of what “clean and organized” is compared to other members of their household. Additionally, 44% say “cleaning and organizing frequency” is the most

difficult task for their family to agree on.

• Survey respondents say their top peeves about their family’s cleaning and organizing style is they procrastinate (56%) and they don’t like to clean/organize themselves at all (36%). According to 48% of survey respondents, another big annoyance is having to frequently remind other people in the home to pick up their belongings. When they don’t clean up after themselves, most (58%) say it makes them feel annoyed and some say they feel angry/frustrated (29%).

• Clutter in the living room is the “most annoying mess” that family members make on a regular basis, followed by not wiping up spills in the kitchen or fridge (45%), according to the results.

Although there is a lot to disagree about when it comes to clutter, there is one thing families are aligned on: 85% believe “living in a tidy home leads to more harmony among household members.” Duck brand offers simple solutions for a happier, more efficient home: Install EasyMounts Interior Drywall J Hook in the hall closet, entryway or garage to encourage family members to keep bags, hats and toys off the floor. If the kitchen is a messy hotspot, place Clear Classic EasyLiner Brand Shelf Liner in the fridge to cut down on sticky spills.

For expert tips and ideas on how to use EasyMounts and EasyLiner around the house, visit Duck brand.

Attract Backyard Birds with the Right Seeds

(Family Features) While almost all bird seed may look pretty much the same to you, it doesn’t to the birds you’re feeding. Knowing what kinds of seeds different birds like can help you attract a variety of fine feathered friends to your feeders.

Consider these popular seed types and the common backyard birds they attract:

Sunflower - Black sunflower seeds attract blue jays, goldfinches, woodpeckers, purple finches, chickadees, titmice and nuthatches. Striped sunflower seeds appeal to chickadees, doves, grosbeaks, northern cardinals, nuthatches, titmice and woodpeckers. Sunflower hearts (also known as “hulled sunflower” and “sunflower chips”) attract chickadees, common redpolls, juncos, doves, finches, goldfinches, grosbeaks, nuthatches, pine siskins, titmice and woodpeckers.

Nyjer - These lightweight, tiny seeds are a favorite of goldfinches. Put nyjer seeds in a hanging feeder with tiny holes so the small seeds won’t get blown away. Nyjer also attracts redpolls, juncos, doves, indigo bunting and pine siskin.

Safflower - These white seeds are slightly smaller than black sunflower seeds. Because they are bitter, grackles, blue jays, starlings - and squirrels - don’t like them. However, they do attract doves, purple finches, chickadees, titmice and downy woodpeckers.

White millet - Good for scattering on the ground, white millet attracts ground feeders such as juncos, sparrows, indigo buntings, towhees and mourning doves.

Cracked corn - Popular with ground feeders, cracked corn appeals to doves, crows, jays, sparrows, juncos and towhees. Avoid getting finely cracked corn as it’s vulnerable to rot and can quickly turn to mush.

When choosing a bird seed mix, pay attention to the ingredients list on the package. Bird seed is required by law to list ingredients in order of content. Some cheaper mixes have filler seeds such as wheat, red milo, red millet or “assorted grain products.” Most backyard birds won’t eat those, and your seed mix could end up wasted on the ground.

Learn more about making your backyard an oasis for birds of all kinds at eLivingtoday.com.

Your dream DESTINATION WEDDING awaits on Tybee Island, GA

Patrick A. Gouveia Sr.

Patrick A Gouveia Sr, 66, of Rehoboth unexpectedly passed away Friday August 25th, 2023 at home.

For years he loved to farm as many can tell you and was a proud past coach for the Dighton Rehoboth Strikers.

A member of The Holy Ghost Brotherhood of Charity and President of Dighton Rehoboth Dollars for Scholars.

Enjoyed watching NCIS, NASCAR, and Boston Sports especially the Bruins with his daughter.

Mr. Gouveia is survived by his wife of 30 years Susan (Danzer) Gouveia; his son and

daughter Patrick Gouveia Jr and Abigail Gouveia; his brother Kevin and his wife Janice and family.

Death Notices Rehoboth

Joan Carol Devaney the cherished daughter of Peter and Emma (Serrecchia) Zollo passed away September 7, 2023.

Rehoboth, MA-Chief Carl A. Winquist, EPPD, ret., 83, formerly

of Barrington, passed away at his home on September 13, 2023, surrounded by family after a courageous battle with cancer.

Seekonk

Maria Adelina Santos Antonio, 82, of Seekonk, went home to Jesus on Wednesday, August 23, 2023 at her home.

Joan Marie (Gustafson) Dingley, 92, of Seekonk, MA, recently residing in Smithfield, RI, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 31, 2023 while in hospice.

Mark A. Derham 70, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, September 13, 2023.

Jason K. Landry of Rehoboth

Daniel A. Laneres Sandra M. Reis Fala Português Michael S. Sladen

Patrick A Gouveia Sr.

Food & Dining Guide

Kickoff Cravings

Win your tailgate with MVP-level appetizers

(Family Features) Before the end zone dances and sideline celebrations, settling in for a winning game day experience starts with delicious foods. Whether your football parties take place at home, in the backyard or right outside the stadium, kicking it off with savory appetizers can get the crowd on its feet. Keep your game plan simple this season and light up the scoreboard with fan favorites like dips and wings. These versions are both easy to prepare and can be enjoyed fresh or made in advance and kept warm or reheated to energize your fellow diehards. Visit Culinary.net to find more touchdown-worthy tailgate recipes.

Game Day Buffalo Chicken Dip

Ingredients

Outdoor Dining Now Open!

Mariachi Band on Thurs!

Margaritas Made Fresh!

Hours: Sun-Thurs 11am-9pm Fri & Sat 11am-10pm

• 2 cups shredded chicken

• 8 ounces cream cheese

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, plus additional for topping, divided

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Heat oven to 400 F.

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 heavy pinch dried dill

• 1/2 cup hot sauce

• 2 green onions, chopped

• blue cheese crumbles

• chips

• vegetable sticks

Directions

In bowl, mix shredded chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese, onion powder, garlic powder and dried dill until combined. Add hot sauce; mix until combined. Transfer mixture from bowl to oven-safe dish. Top with additional shredded cheese, to taste.

Bake until cheese is melted, approximately 15 minutes. Top with blue cheese crumbles and chopped green onion. Serve warm with chips and vegetable sticks.

Game Day Taco Dip

Prep: 25 min ~ Cook: 5 min ~ Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef

• 1 pk (1 ounce) taco seasoning

• 1/4 cup water

• 2 tablespoons minced cilantro

• 1 can (16 ounces) refried beans, zesty salsa flavor

• 1 jar (16 ounces) thick and chunky salsa, medium or hot

• 2 cups guacamole

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 3 packages (5 ounces each) Fresh Express Butter Supreme

• 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1 cup tomatoes, chopped

• 1 can (2 1/4 ounces) sliced black olives, drained

• 1 package (14 ounces) tortilla chips

Directions

In skillet over medium-high heat, cook beef 5 minutes, or until no longer pink. Sprinkle with taco seasoning; mix well. Add water; cook 2 minutes, or until water is absorbed. Transfer to bowl; cool to room temperature. Add cilantro; mix well.

In 9-inch pie plate, evenly spread refried beans; top with seasoned ground beef and salsa. Add spoonfuls of guacamole across top of salsa then carefully spread to smooth.

Place sour cream in small resealable bag; cut off corner. Pipe sour cream to create football shape on guacamole.

Put pie plate in center of 15-by-18-inch tray. Arrange salad blend around pie plate. Top with cheddar cheese, tomatoes and olives. Serve with tortilla chips.

Game Day Chicken Wings

Total time: 50 minutes ~ Servings: 4 Ingredients

• 1/2 cup butter, cubed

• 1/3 cup flour

• 2 teaspoons paprika

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 10 chicken wingettes, thawed

• dipping sauces (optional)

• fresh parsley (optional)

Preheat oven to 425 F.

Directions

Line baking sheet with foil. Arrange butter cubes on foil.

In medium bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Coat both sides of wings in flour mixture then evenly space among butter cubes on baking sheet.

Bake wings 30 minutes.

Turn wings over and bake 15 minutes, or until crispy and fully cooked.

Serve with dipping sauces and sprinkle with fresh parsley, if desired.

Source: Family Features

Rehoboth MA

508-252-4444

Briggs Corner Store has been part of the community for nearly 100 years. Your trusted one stop shop!

• Wine, Beer & Spirits Store • UPS Access

Grocery Store

1503 Park Street, A leboro, MA • (508) 222-4442

Briggs Corner Store has been part of the community for nearly 100 years. Your trusted one stop shop!

Here at Ultimate Quality Seafood we thrive to bring you the freshest seafood at a competitive price.

• Open 7 Days a Week 10-6 in A leboro

• Open Friday & Saturday 12-6 in Rehoboth

508.415.6926 • 238 Winthrop Street, Rehoboth MA & 1503 Park Street, A leboro MA

Follow us on Facebook @ R&M Bakery

• Open 7 Days a Week 10-6 in A leboro

Please use Facebook messenger or text message 508.838.9262 for all orders.

* All orders must be placed at least 72 hours prior to when needed.

From

508.415.6926 • 238 Winthrop Street, Rehoboth MA & 1503 Park Street, A leboro MA

Catering for all your sweet treat needs...

• Open Friday & Saturday 12-6 in Rehoboth R&M Bakery

Coming soon! We are looking forward to having Cakes and Pies sold at Briggs Corner Store! Stay tuned for more details on how you can enjoy this new addition!

Baked Goods Delivered From Our Home To Yours

Catering for all

*

Seekonk Public Library continued from page 60...

Teen Services at Seekonk Public Library

Keep in Touch with Teen Services!

Seekonk Library Teen Services is on TikTok! Go to seekoknpl. org/teens to see our latest video, then scroll down for links to our TikTok and Instagram accounts. As always, you’ll find registration buttons for upcoming programs followed by recent library photos at the top of the page. Sign up for the teen email newsletter, download a volunteer or Teen Advisory Board application, and find reading suggestions and other resources on the right side of the page.

Teen Advisory Board

Thursday, October 5 at 3:30 PM

Please note that the start time has moved to 3:30 PM for this and future TAB meetings. Meetings are for TAB members only. To join, visit seekonkpl.org/teens and download the TAB application. Email the finished application to teens@seekonkpl.org or turn it in at the Research Help Desk in the Library.

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

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

Pumpkin Painting Party for Tweens & Teens

Thursday, October 26 at 3:00 PM

It’s pumpkin time! Come to the library to express your fall-time creativity with acrylic paint and real pumpkins. Choose between drawing with acrylic paint pens and the classic paintbrush approach—or try a combination of both. Then take your work home to show off on your front porch! Participants will be allowed to paint up to two mini or small pumpkins.

This 1-hour event is free and open to tweens and teens in grades 6 through 12. Registration is required.

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

Magic: The Gathering - Learn to Play

Tuesday, November 7 at 2:00 PM

Coming up in November, One Up Games will return with a Magic: The Gathering - Learn to Play workshop for tweens and teens. Players will be taught how to play the MTG Trading Card Game by One Up’s professional staff, participate in games and take home their very own Starter Deck! From the official game website: “Magic is a collectible trading card game of fun-filled, strategic games to play with friends old and new. Welcoming worldbuilders, narrative lovers, and gameplay enthusiasts alike, Magic has something for everyone and countless ways to play. Whether you’re sitting at the kitchen table, playing online, or battling in a high-stakes competition, there’s a place for you in the world of Magic: The Gathering.”

This 3-hour event is free and open to tweens and teens in grades 6 through 12. Space is limited, so register early!

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

Children’s Room Intro to Robotics Coding

Mondays, October 16, 23, November 6, 13, 3:45 PM

Calling all 4th and 5th graders! Seekonk library is offering an ‘Introduction to Robotics Coding’ using SPIKE Prime robots and Scratch-based Word Blocks language. The program will include instructor-led hands-on activities designed to expose newcomers to the basics of coding a robot with motors and sensors. Activities will range from learning how to code basic movement and using various types of sensors, to autonomously completing physical challenges and obstacles. The program is limited to 4th and 5th grade students who have a sincere interest in coding/robotics. A commitment to all 4 weeks is required. The program will be led by Peter Ferlazzo, a technologist with a background in engineering who also has a passion for how things work. Register.

Open Game Play with Virtual Reality!

Wednesday, October 18, 2 PM

Seekonk Schools early release day program! Join One Up Games to play popular and classic games on Nintendo Switch, XBox Series, PlayStation 4, and Oculus Quest 2! Register. Limited to children in grades 3 and up.

Spooky Stories!

Monday, October 23, 6:30-7:30 PM

Join Ms Sandie for a Spooky Story session! We’ll turn off the lights and read with flashlights! We’ll read aloud a spooky story, and kids will have the chance to share their own spooky story or read aloud from the library’s collection. For GRADES 3-5. Register.

Paws To Read

October 25, November 1, 8 3-4:30 PM (time slots)

Build reading skills and gain confidence in reading aloud by coming to the Library to “Paws To Read”. Register to reserve a 15-minute time slot to have your child read to Gizmo and Pepe, two adorable chihuahua/Pomeranian mix therapy dogs. Each one-on-one private session is facilitated by Sandra Healey. Space is limited. Children should bring a book they can read or come a few minutes early to select one in the children’s room. Register.

Spooky Bones/Creepy Crawlies

Monday, October 30, 4-5 PM

Professor Bugman, educator and entomologist, is back with his Halloween bugstravaganza! What better way to combine the spooky and the scientific than with an awesome Halloween learning event for kids? Explore real bones and skeletons from endemic Massachusetts animals, or hold and pet some of the biggest bugs you’ve ever seen! We’ll discover the answers to questions such as “What separates vertebrates from invertebrates? How are their bodies similar and different? What scientific secrets do these insides hide?” Ages 4-12. Registration required.

Edible Cookie Dough (vegan and GF)

Thursday, November 2, 6:30 PM

Make gluten-free & vegan edible cookie dough! We’ll start by talking about food safety and have an overview of the project with tools and ingredients. Then we’ll make cookie dough! Everything will be premeasured/portioned, and each child/family will make their own dough to take home along with a recipe card. Class will last 45 - 60 minutes. Suitable for children ages 6 and up. Registration required. This program is taught by Darlene Sicard, owner of D’s Lectables in Seekonk. This event is free and open to the public through the generosity of a grant from the Seekonk Cultural Council, a local agency that is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council.

Solar Eclipse Glasses

Families are encouraged to register for a pair of glasses to safely watch the partial solar eclipse which will occur on October 14. To reserve a pair of glasses, use the registration link located on September 14. Pick up of glasses begins October 1.

STORYTIMES

Baby/Toddler Storytime: Mons, Oct 16, 30 10 AM

Join Miss Sharon for a weekly storytime designed for children birth - 36 months old. The storytime will include a book or two followed by music, fingerplays, movement and yes, even bubbles! On October 30, everyone is invited to wear their Halloween costume.

Preschool Storytime: Weds, Oct 11, 18 at 9:30 AM

Miss Sandie will read 2 - 3 stories and children will complete a related activity. Siblings welcome. Drop in.

Trick or Treat Storytime: Thurs, October 26 at 9:30 AM

Children ages 3-5 are invited to a Trick or Treat storytime. We’ll be reading Halloween stories and then go trick or treating in the library. Costumes encouraged. Registration required.

Moon “Storytime on the Go”: Starting Thurs, Oct 6

In celebration of the October 14 eclipse, register to receive a special Moon “Storytime On The Go” packet. Each packet will include 4 or more books to check out and an age appropriate early literacy activity. The early literacy activities will support one or more of the five early literacy practices: talking, singing, reading, writing and playing. Storytime On The Go packets are available for toddlers or preschoolers- just choose the packet that’s right for your child. Register and pick up a packet starting Tuesday, October 10.

Bilingual Storytime; Tuesday, November 7, 10 AM

A Spanish/English storytime for ages 3-5. Registration required. Check seekonkpl.org for details

YARD SALE

HUGE Yard Sale! Multiple families. October 20th 11am-4pm. October 21st 9am-2pm. 94 Lakeside Street, Riverside.

LOST PET

We are looking for our cat, Koa, who has been missing from our Cedar Street home (Rehoboth) since August 23rd. He is a 9-year-old large light and dark grey colored guy (Maine Coon mix) with white paws and green eyes. Thanks, Mike 508-951-1338.

HELP WANTED

Cole Michael Salon in East Providence on busy main road is looking for a experienced stylist to rent a station. Very affordable weekly or monthly rent. Call 401-383-1905.

Help Wanted: Part-time teller at Community & Teachers Federal Credit Union, 15-20 hours. For more info call 401-438-7788, ask for Joan or Ken.

Help Wanted: Full time position with accounting experience, Community & Teachers Federal Credit Union. For more info call 401-438-7788, ask for Joan or Ken.

Seekonk Flea Market at Seekonk Speedway. Position available Sundays from March 26th thru December 3rd. Looking for general help around the Flea Market every Sunday from 5am-noon. Call Linda at 401-263-5737.

Helper needed for non-verbal girl with RETT syndrome. Sunday 1PM-4PM. $20/ hour with taxes taken out. Background check required. Barrington 401-289-0127.

Exercise helper needed for girl with RETT syndrome. 3:30PM-5:30PM flexible days. Taxes taken out. Background check required. Barrington 401-289-0127.

Social Worker (Per Diem-Part-Time)Directions For Life: Non-Profit seeking parttime per diem Social Worker. Broad knowledge of social work practice and a Master’s Degree and RI LICSW is required. Abilities include: knowledge of psychiatric/medical social work or related clinical field, judgement to analyze facts and circumstances and to make independent discussions based on limits of standard or accepted practice, ability to effectively use clinical and therapeutic skills, ability to utilize sound interpersonal skills when interacting with patients and taking into consideration cultural background, and skills in organization and priority setting. Flexible schedule includes remote or in office hours. Hourly based on experience. Please call

401-744-8824 for more information. Equal opportunity employer. Grow with us!

EVENTS

FOREIGNER & BAD COMPANY TRIBUTE SHOW - October 15th - Greenwich Odeum: CLASSIC ROCK REVIVAL SHOW - FOREIGNER & BAD COMPANY tribute by Merchants of Cool. East Greenwich Odeum Theatre. Oct 15 7:30PM $34 15% Promo: “Premiere”. www.turningpoint.productions

BENEFIT CONCERT FOR OUR VETERANS Proceeds to the Wounded Warrior Project: “MUSIC SUPPORTS OUR HEROES” - A Charitable Benefit Concert for wounded war Veterans thru the Wounded Warrior Project featuring Southern Rock tributes to Lynyrd Skynyrd & The Allman Brothers Band. Sat. Dec 9th. Park Theatre, Cranston. 7:30PM $36 20% Discount Promo Code “Pumpkin-23” https://www.turningpoint.productions

FOR RENT

Barn capable of 2-3 horses with corral turnout. Call John at 508-958-1567.

FOR RENT: Small 2 bedroom in Seekonk: 2 bedroom. Please call John at 508-958-1567.

HALL RENTAL

BOOK YOUR SPECIAL OCCASION PARTY NOW! Riverside Sportsman Assoc. Mohawk Drive off Wampanoag Trail. For all occasions: Birthday, Family Reunions, Club/ Organization Meetings. Cash Bar. Monthly Steak Fries and other events. Call the club at 401-433-0209, leave a message.

VACATION RENTALS

Charming Cape Cod cottage in Dennis Port, MA. Lower County Rd. 10 minute walk to Nantucket Sound beaches. Minutes from summer attractions. 1 bath. 1 bdrm, sleeps

2. New windows & AC. Perfect for a week away at the Cape. Ready for 2024 bookings. Call Liz for info/pictures at (508) 362-8844. www.midcaperentals.com

CUSTOM LOG CABIN IN Sugar Hill, Franconia, White Mountains, NH. Pearl Lake Rd. Minutes from attractions, Pearl Lake and Polly’s Pancake house. Sleeps 6, fireplace, swimming, hiking, fishing, boating, kayaks or just R&R. Booking now for Fall and Winter getaways: Weekly or weekends. Call Joe at 401-439-8089 for information and pictures.

HOME & GARDEN

House Plants for sale: Good variety, perennials also. Call 401-4333-2922.

WANTED

WANTED: Free Christmas wreaths and decorations. I can pick up. Call Debbie at 401-632-3602.

Seekonk Flea Market at Seekonk Speedway. Buyers and Vendors wanted every Sunday 7AM – 1PM from March 26th thru December 3rd 2023. Call Linda at 401-2635737.

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.

SERVICES

Handyman/Home Repairs/Improvements: GSS Property Solutions LLC; Registered, Bonded; Fully Insured. Servicing Mass & RI; Call/Text: 401-688-9749.

Bicycle Sales & Service: Your Bike Shops Tune-ups on all brands. In Riverside next to CVS 401-433-4491 and in Warren next to the Police Station and the bike path. Call Art or Joe for *NEW* hours and service. 401-245-9755

Housecleaning: Is your home in need of a really good cleaning? Whether you need a 1 time cleaning, or regular cleanings. Years of experience! (We include fridge and oven w/ our cleanings) Call Gil for details 508840-6611.

BIG BLUE REMOVAL SERVICE: Attic, Cellar, Total House. We take everything! Furniture, Brush, Appliances, Yard Waste, Construction Debris, Trash…Demolition of Fences, Sheds, Decks, Pools. Let us do the work. Free Estimates. BEST PRICES. Call Tony 508-226-1295 or 508-889-0824; www. BigBlueJunkRemovals.com.

Junk Removal in Rehoboth, Taunton, Attleboro and everywhere in Southern MA! Rapid Junk Removal has trucks rolling throughout the area daily. We can handle your Junk Removal, Estate/Property Cleanouts and Debris Cleanups - all at an affordable price, since we're always in the area! For a quote, TEXT pictures to our text line: (401) 360-5837 or visit our website at www. RapidJunkRemovalRI.com for a free quote. We'll send you back a price and availability to get your junk removed and property cleaned up! Junk Removal Locally owned vendor. No job too small! Family owned & operated. Best deals in town! Affordable pricing. 401-360-5837.