January 2025 Rehoboth Reporter

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Rehoboth Town News

Rehoboth Reporter January 2025 Town Clerk Article

Hello All ~ Happy New Year ~ I wish you all a safe, HEALTHY, happy, peaceful, and prosperous New Year. By now you should have received your 2025 Annual Census form or it should arrive during the first week of January. The 2025 census mailing includes a 2025 town calendar and town services directory. This is the 12th year the Clerk’s Office has provided a calendar in the census mailer. Over the past few years, we have received many compliments on how helpful the calendar has been during the year. In fact, residents have already called our office to see if the 2025 calendar was available yet. If you would like another copy of the calendar, please let us know; we will gladly share an extra copy, while supplies last. Thank you all for your kind comments and appreciation of the yearly town calendar. We hope you find the 2025 Town calendar addition to your census mailing a beneficial and time saving tool ~ Happy New Year and thank you for sending your completed census forms back to us as soon as possible! Due date is January 31st ~ thank you!

Continuing my goal of making town government more accessible to the residents, it is my hope that the calendar provides you with key information right at your fingertips. You will note, the calendar signals residents of upcoming due dates such as real estate tax payments, census forms and dog license renewals, which are highlighted in green; upcoming election and town meeting dates, which are highlighted in blue, and town department holidays that are bolded in red (whole day) and purple (half day). On the reverse side of the calendar, you will find a directory of the Town of Rehoboth’s departments, employees, and phone numbers. Also, included on the directory side of the calendar, you will find information and websites, which residents may find useful such as transfer station hours, burning permit information, school and library phone numbers, etc.

This year’s calendar features the Blanding Library, Goff Hall and the Carpenter Museum. In 1884 a young Rehoboth minister, George H. Tilton, decided that something should be done to preserve the remnants of the town’s colonial past. Thus inspired, he founded the Rehoboth Antiquarian Society in March of that year. The Society was established for several purposes: to preserve artifacts relating to Rehoboth’s history, to maintain a meeting hall, and to run a consolidated school and a library. The first Goff Memorial Hall, a large, wooden Victorian-style building, was dedicated in March 1886. The antiquarian room that displayed collections was housed on the first floor. In July 1911, the building was struck by lightning and burned to the ground. Fortunately, most of the artifacts were saved. A new Goff Memorial Hall was quickly planned and built (this time of brick), and was dedicated in May 1915. The building now houses the Blanding Library and Goff Memorial Hall.

During America’s bicentennial year, a decision was reached to build a separate structure to house the collection of the Rehoboth Antiquarian Society. Modeled after a local 1760 gambrel-roofed house, the Farmhouse contains staff offices, collections storage, a research center, and a community meeting space with kitchen facilities.

The E. Otis Dyer Barn on museum grounds behind the Farmhouse, was constructed in May 1993 as one of the celebratory events commemorating the 350th anniversary of the founding of Rehoboth. Eighty men and woman came together and built the basic structure in a traditional barn raising over one weekend. The Barn is based on one built in Rehoboth in 1746 on the property of Sylvanus Martin. The Barn at the Carpenter Museum was designed and built to be used for the display and storage of artifacts in the museum’s collection. The building is heated and air-conditioned and has a modern basement. On the 10th anniversary of the building of the Barn, it was dedicated to RAS president emeritus E. Otis Dyer in recognition of his outstanding service to the Rehoboth Antiquarian Society and to the vision and effort that made the Barn a reality.

I would personally like to thank Rebecca Smith (President of the Antiquarian Society), Danielle DiGiacomo (Carpenter Museum Director), Whitney Pape (Librarian – Blanding Library), Lende McMullen (Research Manager – Carpenter Museum), Kerrie Perkins (Assistant Town Clerk) and Jenn Hose (Administrative Aide) for their help with the calendar blurb. Thank you, Danielle and my daughter Jennifer, for your help with the calendar images this year. We have so many historical properties in Rehoboth and I am thrilled we get to feature a different piece of Rehoboth history, each year, on our census calendars ~ please enjoy your 2025 Rehoboth census calendar!

Laura Schwall

Annual Town Census

As mentioned in last month’s article, the Board of Registrars is required to conduct an annual street listing (Census) of residents as of the first of January each year. In addition to the name, address, date of birth, occupation, veteran status with “war era” noted, and number of dogs, the form includes a section for school information required by the school department. Results of the census are used to prove residency for a variety of reasons. The data is used for state college entrance applications, veterans’ benefits, amending and establishing birth records, locating missing persons, establishing precinct lines, predicting future school enrollment, state and federal funding to the town, police and fire protection, updating the voting list, and other legal purposes. Please remember to add your alternative phone number and e-mail to the census forms so we may contact you if needed ~ thank you!

Please review the pre-printed Census Form, make corrections, and return it no later than January 31st. You may choose to return the Census Form via the postal service or utilize Census drop off box at Town Hall – 340 Anawan Street or the drop off boxes also located at the Blanding Library, Bristol County Savings Bank, and the Senior Center located at 27 Francis Farm Road. Additionally, if you prefer, you can scan in your signed and completed census forms and email them to TownClerk@RehobothMA.gov .

This year’s census mailer has five inserts: the household census form & return envelope; the 2025 Calendar; the Annual Dog

Brian P. Lynch Complete Painting

Service

Licensing form; Health and Human Services informational flyer, and a helpful insert regarding your household septic system. Please note the Annual Rehoboth-Seekonk Rabies Clinic is scheduled for Saturday, March 15th, 2025. For more information, please see the bottom of the Dog Licensing Form in the census mailer or under the Dog Licenses and Rabies Clinic sections of this article. Updated information will be shared on the Town Website at www.RehobothMA. gov Finally, new residents may receive a blank 2025 census form, which they are asked to complete and return. If you do not receive a Census Form by the second week of January, please contact the Town Clerk’s Office 508-252-6502 X-3112, 3109 or 3110. Blank Census forms are also available on the town website @ http://www.town.rehoboth.ma.us/town-clerk/pages/censusinformation

Failure to return the completed census form may result in voters being placed on an inactive voting list or being removed from the voting list.

Residents are requested to please send in their census forms as quickly as possible regardless of whether or not they license their dogs at this time. Census forms are due no later than 1-3125 ~ Thank You!

2025 Dog Licenses

The 2025 Dog Licenses are now available and may be purchased through the Town Clerk’s Office. Again in 2025, residents will be able to renew their dog licenses online with a Debit/Credit Card or Electronic Check (ACH/EFT). Those dog owners who registered their dogs on our online dog licensing program “Permiteyes” in previous years, know they were able to register their dogs online through the town’s permitting program on the Town Website @ https://www.rehobothma.gov/home/pages/online-permitting - please look for the Green “Dog Licensing” button and search for your dog’s record. Instructions on how to use the online permitting program can be found online at: https://www.rehobothma.gov/town-clerk/ pages/dog-licenses

Whether renewing online, via mail, in person, through the outside drop box or census drops around town, dog license applications must be accompanied by a current year rabies certificate (with a vaccination date covering the current licensing year) and proof of spay or neuter [if applying for the $10 licensing fee] unless we already have your documentation on file in the Clerk’s Office. If you are unsure, please give our office a call and we can tell you how up-to-date our information is or you can simply search the information on the Permiteyes Dog Licensing program located on the town website: https://www.rehobothma.gov/home/pages/onlinepermitting . Dog owners should note that the license(s) will not be returned unless a stamped, self-addressed envelope is included (the current postage is 69¢ for one dog tag, 97¢ for two or three dog tags and $1.25 for four dog tags).

CARLSON TREE

Reminder, all residents 70-years old or over do not need to pay the $10 or $20 yearly dog licensing fee. I submitted an article at the May 8, 2017 Annual Town Meeting (Article 15) requesting Town Meeting vote to accept MGL CHAPTER 140 SECTION 139(c), which states “No fee shall be charged for a license issued under this section for a service animal as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act or regulations promulgated thereunder. No fee shall be charged for a license for a dog owned by a person aged 70 years or over in a city or town that accepts this provision”. Town meeting did approve the acceptance of MGL Chapter 140 Section 139 (c), which permits the Town Clerk’s Office to waive dog licensing fees for service animals and for dogs owned by any Rehoboth resident 70 years of age and older. Proof of rabies vaccinations for each dog and proof of the dog owner’s age (70 or older) is required and you do need to renew your dog’s license each year. As per Town Counsel, the waiving of fees does not include Kennel Fees.

The Annual Town Election

The Annual Town Election for the Town of Rehoboth will be held on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, with the polls open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. – Polling Location for all four precincts is Francis Farm Community Center (27 Francis Farm Road) – Museum building. If you would like to review the facility and layout of the polling location, please visit the Town Website at: https://www.rehobothma.gov/home/news/rehoboth-changes-its-centralized-pollinglocation-francis-farm-community-center-museum Additional details will be communicated as we get closer to the election. As always, the Town Website will have updated polling information when available.

Nomination papers are now available for any registered voter in Rehoboth wishing to run for election on the Town ballot and who chooses not to seek a nomination through their registered party’s caucus process. Nomination papers may be picked up by prospective candidates, at the Town Clerk’s office (340 Anawan Street/Route 118) beginning January 2, 2025, and must be returned, signed by a minimum of 50 registered voters. All signed and completed nomination papers are due back to the Board of Registrars at the Town Clerk’s Office by 5 p.m. on, or before, Tuesday, February 11th.

Positions to be elected on the ballot for 2025 are Moderator (one for 1 year), Board of Selectmen (one position for 3 years), Assessor (one for 3 years), School Committee (one for 3 years), Housing Authority (one for five years), Planning Board (one for 5 years), Park Commission (one for 5 years), Constable (three positions for 3 years) and Water Commissioner (two positions for 3 years).

I will make available the date, time, and location of the Annual Town Election Caucuses once my office is notified by the respective Town Committees.

The final voter registration date, to be eligible to vote in the Annual Town Election, is scheduled for Saturday, March 22nd from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Prospective voters are reminded that they may also register to vote online at www.RegisterToVoteMA.com , by calling the Town Clerk’s Office to request a Mail-In voter registration form, or download a form @ http:// www.sec.state.ma.us/ele/elepdf/Voter-reg-mail-in.pdf

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Absentee & Mail-In Ballot Requests

Applications for absentee ballots are available as of January 2nd and may be obtained from the Town Clerk’s Office or online @ https://www.sec.state.ma.us/ele/elepdf/absentee/EnglishAbsentee-Ballot-Application.pdf

An absentee ballot may only be obtained by written request and with the voter’s original signature. Most voters do not qualify to receive an absentee ballot to be sent to them. Massachusetts allows voters that QUALIFY to vote by absentee ballot if the voter is one of the following:

Will be absent from your city or town on election day.

Has a physical disability that prevents voting at the polling place. Cannot vote at the polls due to religious beliefs.

If you do not qualify for an “Absentee Ballot”, you can vote by mail by completing the “No Excuse” Vote by Mail ballot application detailed below this paragraph.

No Excuse Early Voting By Mail “Vote By Mail”

The 2022-Votes Act legislation approved in June of 2022, allows voters who do not qualify for an Absentee Ballot to vote by mail by completing the “Vote by Mail” application @ https://www.sec.state.ma.us/divisions/elections/download/ vote-by-mail-applications/vote-by-mail-paper-application-2023.pdf

David J. Ledoux

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Applications for both absentee and vote-by-mail must be received by the Town Clerk by 5PM on the 5th business day before an election. We recommend applying earlier than the deadline as the US Postal delivery services outside of Rehoboth are not consistent and can range from 2 to 11 days.

Business Certificates

Business owners whose business certificate will expire from January through June of 2025 should have received a reminder for renewal. The renewal fee is $50.00 (certificate renewal is good for four years) and checks should be made payable to: The Town of Rehoboth. If you prefer to renew online, you may use the debit/credit card/ ACH/EFT payment method on the town website. However, your signature must be notarized on the business certificate renewal form then scanned and e-mailed to the Town Clerk’s office. Free notary services are available in various offices at Town Hall. Debit/ Credit Card or Electronic Check (ACH/EFT) transactions may also be processed through the Town Clerk’s office, in addition to online. Questions or suggestions regarding any of the above topics may be directed to the Town Clerk’s Office, Monday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, 508-252-6502, X3109, X3112 or X3110.

Thank You – Rehoboth Garden Club!

Thank you again, Rehoboth Garden Club for decorating our Town Hall with another beautiful wreath. We thank you all for all you do for so many! Thank you for making our holidays so special! In closing, Kerrie, Jenn and I wish all of our town residents a happy, safe, peaceful, healthy, and prosperous New Year. Final reminders, Town Offices will be closed on Monday, January 20th in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and Real Estate Taxes are due Monday, February 3, 2025 ~ thank you. Please stay safe and I look forward to talking with you in February.

Sincerely, Laura

The wreath at the Town Hall from the Garden Club.

4th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting by Rehoboth’s

Park Commission

On December 15th, Santa Claus from Rhode Island came to the Rehoboth Police Department to help with project “FILL A CRUISER” which was a great success and thank you all for those who came by. After things wrapped up at the Rehoboth Police Department, Santa Claus was off to the Veterans Memorial to assist the Rehoboth Park Commission with the 4th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting.

After Santa Claus lit the Christmas tree and then Santa and his elf gave out Christmas presents to the children Rehoboth. Bill Higby assisted the park Commission with the Hay Rides around Redway Plain and the park Commission gave out free hot dogs apple cider and coffee. Thank you, Sandy Parris, for creating this event four years ago along with Kathy Amaral, Lissa Solas, Joseph Collins and of course Jake Kramer with the photos.

Above photos from the tree lighting

The Rehoboth Town Events Committee would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the participants of the 2024 Light Up Rehoboth contest. This year marked the 5th annual celebration, and our community came together in a truly spectacular way to spread holiday cheer throughout the town. With 18 creative and festive displays, we were able to enjoy a beautiful display of holiday spirit that was appreciated by many.

Each display not only showcased individual creativity but also played a part in bringing our community closer together, making the holiday season even brighter for all. Your enthusiasm and dedication to the contest truly exemplify the spirit of Rehoboth.

A special thank you goes to the committee judges and their families, as well as Christian Rivera, for providing the Annual

Santa at the tree lighting

Participation Ornaments to honor all the wonderful contributors.

We are grateful for the continued support and participation of our community, and we look forward to celebrating even more holiday traditions in the years to come.

If you feel that you would make a great addition to the committee, we welcome you to join us at our next meeting on February 4th at 6:00 PM at the Francis Farm Arcade Building. We would love to have you involved in planning future events for our wonderful town!

Thank you again to all of you for your creativity, holiday spirit, and support!

Thank You Rehoboth!

from the Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Inc.

The Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving would like to thank our amazing community for their generous support during this season’s Blizzard of Giving campaign. Rehoboth is full of caring people who make a positive difference in our town! Together we were able to help many local families have a brighter, merrier Merry Christmas.

A special ‘thank you’ to all the locations that were kind enough to welcome our collection boxes and snowflake boards: Blanding Library, Anawan Cleaners, Chartley Store, Rehoboth Post Office, Vino’s Restaurant, J&J Materials, RDL Equipment, Propane Plus, and Personal Best PT.

And big ‘thank you’ to all our special helpers: The Rehoboth Girl Scouts & Leaders for placing the collection boxes and collecting hundreds of toys, as well as the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School’s Peer Leaders for their annual toy collection and Rehoboth Baking Co for their toy drive this year. And as always, we thank the many generous donors and businesses who took a ‘snowflake tag, donated a gift, or adopted a child or a family (or two)! Your thoughtfulness and kindness is extraordinary.

And The Blizzard of Giving is grateful for our “elf headquarters”. Thanks to Tim Johnson, of Propane Plus, who has generously blessed us with a location for us to call home.

Continued on next page...

Please know that we truly appreciate all of you! Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving could not serve our community without your support. Once again, our town has proven that together we can make Rehoboth a better place for all! God Bless you!

The Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Inc. is committed to serving the community by providing Christmas gifts, holiday support, and special occasion needs for Rehoboth residents who are facing challenging times in their lives. Donations can be made out to “Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Inc.” and mailed to: Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Attn: Cathy Edington, 61 Reservoir Ave., Rehoboth, MA 02769

The Blizzard of Giving, Inc. is available all year round to help Rehoboth Children. We are here to help make your child’s birthday even more special! Please visit our website for Birthday request forms and for more information.

Sincerely, Colleen McBride, Cathy Edington, and Cheryl Santos

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Rehoboth Land Trust

Nature’s Voices Speaker Series

Do you love gardening?

Want to get up close with cute and exotic animals? Are you curious about how you can preserve your land for future generations?

The Rehoboth Land Trust is excited to present the Nature’s Voices Speaker Series. These three programs feature some of the many ways we can all protect wildlife and their habitats.

Mark your calendars (all events will take place at Goff Hall in Rehoboth):

• March 2, 2025 @2pm - Mark Robinson will help landowners understand different methods and benefits of preserving your property’s natural beauty forever

• April 27, 2025 - Melanie Trecek-King will share sustainable gardening methods that ensure safe backyard habitats for native plants and animals

• June 28, 2025 - Animal Adventures will showcase live creatures such as snakes, turtles, frogs, and more

Whether we prevent acres of habitat loss or plant native flowers, everyone can contribute to a healthy world! These events are free and open to the public.

The Rehoboth Land Trust Nature’s Voices Speaker Series is funded in part by a grant from the Rehoboth Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency. Thank you RCC!

You Made All of This Possible!

As we look back at 2024, we thank you for making Rehoboth Land Trust’s 35th anniversary a year to remember! You and your neighbors made all of these programs (and more!) possible by sharing the gifts of your time, talent, and support:

Some of RLT’s 2024 Events & Projects: Workshops & Walks, Native Seeds/Milk Jug Greenhouse Workshop, Vernal Pool Walk, Birding Walk, Property & Wildlife Photography, Aerial Images of Mason St Conservation Area, Wildlife Camera, Community Events & Fundraisers, Annual Meeting with special guest speaker, Brian Bastarache, Puzzle-A-Thon, Land Protection & Management,

Boardwalk repair at Ephraim Hunt Ministerial Land (Pond St), Conservation Restriction Application support, Continued stewardship of the 700+ acres protected by RLT.

If you missed any of these programs, be sure to sign up for our newsletter at www. rehobothlandtrust.org to be among the first to know about 2025 events.

Congratulations to the Corvi family and the Roche/Lake family, the winners of our end-of-year raffle. Big thanks to Traditions Bakeshop and The Ice Cream Barn for donating gift cards. Please support these local businesses – your tastebuds will thank you! With more land protection opportunities and grant applications in the pipeline, 2025 is already shaping up to be another exciting year! Best wishes for a happy, healthy, and fulfilling New Year!

Rehoboth Land Trust, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization funded entirely by donations and run by dedicated volunteers. We are not a town committee. Learn more at www.rehobothlandtrust.org.

Rehoboth Animal Shelter News

There are some cats at the Rehoboth Animal Shelter who would love to go home with someone this winter. Lester is a friendly oneyear-old neutered male with beautiful tabby markings. He enjoys attention, treats, and laps. Trixie is a very sweet, spayed female with silky tortoiseshell fur; she is not all that fond of being held but does enjoy being petted. Both are up to date on vaccinations and have tested negative for FIV/ FeLV. For more information about Trixie and Lester or other adoptable pets, or to report a lost or found pet, please call the shelter at 508-252-5421, ext. 126, and leave a message.

Dighton-Rehoboth High School Principal Resigns

By Joe Siegel

Jacqueline Ash, who has served as Principal of DightonRehoboth Regional High School, has tendered her resignation. Ash’s last day is January 17, 2025.

“After 38 years in education, the time has come for me to begin a new chapter, though leaving this exceptional school community will not be easy. It has truly been a privilege to serve as your principal and to witness the remarkable growth and success of our students,” Ash wrote in a December 11 letter to parents and students.

“As principal, I’ve loved walking the hallways, “caw-cawing” over the intercom, and observing our students thrive both in the classroom and beyond. I’ve taken great pride in watching our teams compete on the field and on the court, and I have been continually impressed by the incredible talent showcased in our concerts, plays, musicals, and art shows. These moments - small and large - have made my time here unforgettable,” Ash wrote.

“I want to thank Dr. Ash for all that she’s done for our high school in the past 18 months,” said Superintendent Bill Runey. “Her efforts have provided an energy and passion throughout the school that will be sorely missed. She is leaving our Falcon Family in a better place than she found it.”

“As for the future, I have been very impressed with the leadership provided by Mr. Demers, Acting Principal, Mr. Chamanlal, Assistant Principal, Mr. Strojny, CTE Director, Mr. McKinnon, Director of Athletics and Activities, and Mr. Dineen, interim Assistant Principal. I am confident that this leadership model will make this transition as seamless as possible. Mr. Demers will continue in the role of acting Principal for the rest of this school year. I will keep our community aware of next steps. In the meantime, if I can answer any questions for you, please don’t hesitate to reach out,” Runey added.

Trixie Lester

Jacqueline Ash

Partners: K9 Officers Aguiar and Edo

By Joe Siegel

Rehoboth Police Officer David Aguiar and canine partner Edo has been a regular fixture at the schools, bringing some comfort to students at Palmer River Elementary and Beckwith Middle.

Aguiar grew up in Rehoboth and attended both schools.

“K9 Edo has become so loved and welcomed at the schools that when we visit Palmer River’s cafeteria, the kids will all start to chant “Edo! Edo! Edo!,” Aguiar told the Reporter.

Aguiar and Edo were recently honored at a Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Committee meeting by Superintendent Bill Runey.

While at the meeting, Aguiar and Edo donated two custom books to the Palmer River library – one is a children’s book titled “When A K9 Goes to Work” and the other was “Barking Up The Right Tree, An Adventure in Sniffing Out Trouble at Palmer River Elementary.”

“When I was a student and walked the halls (of the schools), I always felt safe,” Aguiar explained. Besides protecting our residents and the Town of Rehoboth, our mission is to make all students and faculty feel safe as they walk the hallways and learn in a safe environment.”

Aguiar became a Reserve Officer in 2015 and was promoted to full-time Patrolman in 2016. Aguiar and Edo were paired up in May 2021 when then Chief James Trombetta offered Aguiar the position of K9 Handler.

They both attended the Rhode Island Police Canine Academy, where they learned and conducted basic obedience, as well as basic emergency medical care for police canines.

“After K9, Edo had passed all skills and was certified by APCA (American Police Canine Association), we then returned to patrol duties for six months which K9 Edo was in a patrol canine only capacity,” Aguiar said.

The pair are a part of the Massachusetts State Police Bomb Detection Unit as an EOD Canine Support. Aguiar and Edo had assisted them every year with two major events –the Boston Marathon and July 4th Harborfest on the Esplanade. In addition, Aguiar and Edo are called to assist on any bomb threats being handled by the MSP. The pair support local and surrounding police departments on search warrants for firearms and ammunition.

A recent mutual aid request came from the Taunton Police Department.

“They needed help with executing a search warrant with the FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation) Safe Streets Task Force to locate a firearm,” Aguiar said. “Within 20 minutes, K9 Edo successfully located a hidden loaded firearm, which made it possible for the FBI SSTF Agents to conduct an arrest.”

The Rehoboth K-9 Unit has a private account managed by the town, which accepts the donations and disperses the funds for annual medical checkups, unexpected emergencies, canine food/ treats, and Police canine equipment.

“We are humbled to hold this position in town, in which I hold ourselves to the highest standards,” Aguiar added.

Partners: K9 Officers Aguiar and Edo

Rehoboth Honors Veterans in Wreath Ceremony

By Joe Siegel

Hundreds of town residents gathered at the Veterans Memorial at Redway Plain Saturday December 14th to honor the sacrifices of those who gave their lives for this country.

The event was part of the National Wreaths Across America Day 2024. Over 600 wreaths were purchased through donations and placed at the graves of veterans in the Rehoboth Village Cemetery on Bay State Road.

Speakers included Selectman David Pereira and State Rep. Steve Howitt, R-Seekonk.

“Remembrance is a living act,” said Pereira, who served in Iraq in the Marine Corps. “It’s something that should live in our hearts all the time. We owe so much to the men and women who fight for this country.”

“It’s so difficult for them to relive what they’re gone through or what they’ve seen,” Howitt said of the veterans. Howitt called Pereira “a true hero” and thanked him for his service.

“We are here to remember not their deaths but their lives,” said Jaime Papineau, Location Coordinator for the event. “Each wreath is a gift of appreciation from a grateful American. These live Balsam fir symbolize our honor to those who have served and are serving in the Armed Forces and our nation and to their families who endure sacrifices on our behalf. So as a nation standing together we can defeat terrorism, hatred, and injustice. Thanks to our veterans we have the freedom to do just that.”

Margie Rieske read a poem called “You Are Remembered”: “Every precious freedom that we have, each veteran has served to earn.”

Wreaths were laid in front of the memorial gazebo for members of each branch of the military, the US Space Force, US Merchant Marines, POW/MIA, firefighters/first responders, and members of law enforcement.

Craig Grant performed the National Anthem.

Members of the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School Band performed before the ceremony.

The Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Lt. Stephen Small of the Pawtucket Fire Department gave a bag piper salute at the conclusion of the ceremony.

For more information, visit https://www.wreathsacrossamerica. org.

SOARES Pumping, Inc.

Honoring Veterans at Redway Plain

The National Wreaths Across America ceremony at the gazebo last month

SEEKONK DENTAL

Flooding in the

Roundabout

By Joe Siegel

Last week’s heavy rains caused flooding at the roundabout on Route 44 in front of the Cumberland Farms. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation has been working on the redesign of the Route 44/118 intersection for the last two years.

“This is an opportunity for you to see how this Board is prepared for things you never think of,” Vadnais said to residents.

“Right at the northern part of the roundabout, it was flooding,” Selectman George Solas explained. “The grade was very low on both sides.”

There were concerns from town officials about the water freezing because of the cold temperatures. Solas later contacted Mills, Police Chief Louis DiBacco, and Mass DOT about the problem. Action was taken in less than 24 hours.

“(The DOT) dug out on both sides, put in the culverts, and drained and connected it to the overall drainage that they hadn’t done originally,” Solas said. “That following day, it was all fixed. They had it all connected. It was all over and done with in two days. We had a lot of people, all concentrated. I’m very proud to be part of this team. Skip was really proud of us and that’s why he wanted us to talk about it tonight.”

“While you were out, the town worked beautifully together,” Mills told Vadnais. “There was zero pushback, zero resistance. Everybody chipped in even in areas that weren’t their specialty. The team worked well.”

Dighton-Rehoboth Teachers File Grievance

By Joe Siegel

The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional Teachers Association (DRTTA) has filed a grievance against the school district over a policy prohibiting political activities by staff members.

“Given that this continues to be the subject of an ongoing grievance and potential litigation, I won’t have any additional information at this time,” Dighton-Rehoboth School Superintendent Bill Runey said Friday.

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The GBI policy states in part: “The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Committee recognizes that employees of the school district come from diverse political and social backgrounds and have the same fundamental civic responsibilities and privileges as other citizens. Among these are campaigning for an elective public office and holding an elective or appointive office. However, the School Committee also recognizes that schools should be a politically neutral space where students are taught how to think, not what to think, on political, partisan, and social policy issues.”

“In connection with campaigning, an employee shall not: use school district facilities, equipment or supplies; discuss their campaign with school personnel or students during the working day; or use any time during the working day for campaigning purposes. Under no circumstances will students be pressured into campaigning for any staff member.”

“In addition, school district facilities are not public forums for the display or dissemination of an employee’s views on political candidates or political, partisan, or social policy issues. During the working day and while on school district property, employees shall not advocate to students concerning any political candidate or political, partisan, or social policy issue nor engage in political, partisan, or social policy electioneering or campaigning. This prohibition includes advocacy through the use of pamphlets, stickers, pins, buttons, insignias, flags, banners, posters, signs, photographs, or other similar materials.”

Rehoboth: The Year in Review

By Joe Siegel Trombetta Retires

The past year was notable for a major leadership change in a town department. Sergeant Louis DiBacco has been serving as Acting Chief of the Rehoboth Police Department since January, following the retirement of longtime Chief James Trombetta. DiBacco’s appointment as Police Chief on a permanent basis is yet to be determined. “Within a year, both sides will make a decision if he’s going to continue,” Board of Selectmen Chair Skip Vadnais said in July. Trombetta is currently serving with the Police Department as a n unpaid Director of Law Enforcement Operations.

By-Law Changes

A number of bylaw changes were approved at a special Town Meeting in September.

• Section 7-10C(5) was amended as indicated: A Computer Committee shall be appointed annually, effective on July 1, by the Board of Selectmen to include a member of the Board of Assessors, the Town Treasurer-Collector, the Town Clerk, the Town Accountant, the Town Administrator, the Police Chief and the Fire Chief or their designees.

• Section 175-10A was amended as indicated: The licensing authority may deny, revoke or suspend any license or permit, including renewals and transfers, of any party or agent thereof whose name appears on said the list furnished to the licensing authority from the Town Treasurer-Collector of individuals delinquent on their taxes and/or other municipal charges.

Town Moderator William Cute noted the changes to the bylaws had been a “monumental project” and said Richard Panofsky was the “driving force” behind it. Panofsky was on the bylaw review committee and also chaired the Personnel Board.

Rehoboth Against MBTA Law Update

A Facebook group called Rehoboth Against MBTA Law launched a petition drive in an effort to stop multifamily housing developments from being built in town. The petition read: The Town of Rehoboth has until 12/31/2025 to submit an authentication of compliance via details of zoning law changes. The town, without authorization or public comment, has submitted a preliminary action plan to be in compliance with the law. The final steps, per the town’s action plan, are to determine an area for development, currently suggested as Spring Street, and finalize zoning changes in accordance with the law. The MBTA Communities Act requires 177 cities and towns in Eastern Massachusetts — designated as rapid transit, commuter rail, adjacent, and adjacent small town communities — to rezone near T stops to allow for multi-family housing as of right. “As of right” means multi-family housing would be allowed to go up in the rezoned areas without special permits or other discretionary processes.

MBTA requires Rehoboth to provide 250 units “in an appropriate area,” according to Jay Talerman, the town’s legal counsel. Talerman explained there was no requirement for affordable housing in the MBTA law.

Rehoboth Ambulance New Contract

Following months of negotiations, Town officials signed a new contract with Rehoboth Ambulance. Rehoboth Ambulance is a nonprofit corporation under contract to the town. “We’ve just made a few more changes (to the contract),” Selectman Rob Johnson said in October. “The whole contract will benefit everyone.” The town was also awarded Bristol County ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funds to purchase a new ambulance. The Rehoboth Ambulance Committee will be able to use it as they see fit.

DRRSD New Business Administrator

The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District hired Leo Brehm to serve as the District Business Administrator. The position had been vacant since the resignation of Robert Baxter in July 2023. “As soon as (Brehm) joined us as Director of IT in January, he was im-

mediately thrust into our budget frenzy,” Superintendent Bill Runey said in July. “His many years of both public school and corporate educational technology experience paid immediate dividends as he was able to assess our current situation and find us significant savings. These savings were crucial in making our budget more efficient while still keeping us running effectively.”

New Policy for Student Athletes

The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Committee voted at their June 25 meeting to allow coaches and student-athletes to avoid competing against teams that include athletes of the opposite sex.

The policy states there will be no penalty for a coach or a student-athlete issued by the district with the loss of playing time, starting status or other penalties for the refusal to play against a team that is not single-sex. “I applaud our School Committee for taking this step in the absence of substantive action by the MIAA (Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association),” Runey said. “Player safety must be of paramount importance, and the elevated risk of injury when boys compete against girls is a grave concern of ours. I was hopeful that the MIAA would implement additional safety precautions, but there has been no noteworthy progress on that front.”

Grant Awarded for CTE Program

Last June, the DRRSD received a $316,000 Skills Capital Grant from the Healey-Driscoll administration for its Career and Technical Education programs (CTE) at the high school.

“Not only will this grant allow us to provide cutting-edge technology that will empower our staff to ignite the creativity in our CTE students, but it will also help us shape our vision of offering classes to the community during off hours as we continue to extend our reach and show that We are DR,” Runey noted.

The Seekonk Scene

From the Seekonk Town Clerk’s Office

HAPPY NEW YEAR! We hope everyone had a wonderful Holiday Season and wish you all a healthy, and happy new year.

Acknowledgements

We would like to acknowledge and thank the Rehoboth Garden Club for the beautiful wreaths that decorated our front doorways at Town Hall. It was a lovely addition to our tree lighting ceremony.

We would also like to thank EVERYONE who made the tree lighting ceremony happen. It takes a lot of planning and months of preparation to make this event a success. From the lights, decorations, and music to the food, vendors, activities, and Santa made for a wonderful evening that was enjoyed by many.

Board and Committee Highlight

Seekonk Cultural Council

Massachusetts has the largest grassroots cultural funding network in the nation. The Local Cultural Council (LCC) Program enriches the cultural life of all cities and towns in Massachusetts. Led by municipally appointed volunteers, LCCs award $7.5 million every year, supporting 7,500 cultural programs that include field trips, lectures, festivals, and dance performances.

The Seekonk Cultural Council (SCC) received 37 grant requests this year from organizations, performers, and speakers both local and from across the state.

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Be on the lookout throughout 2025 for creative programs sponsored by the SCC in schools, the library, the Senior Center and other places where the public gathers to learn, experience, and be entertained.

Upcoming News and Reminders for 2025 Town Census Information

The 2025 Annual Town Census will be mailed to all households beginning January 22nd. Please update and/or make any changes to the form, sign, and return it to us by February 28, 2025. It can be returned to us in-person, by mail, or by leaving it in the drop box located at the front entrance of Town Hall. If you prefer to send it by email, please forward to townclerk@seekonk-ma.gov.

We are often asked why it is important to return the census. The information that is collected is used to prove residency, update voter rolls, veterans’ benefits, birth records, help predict future school enrollment, establish precinct lines, and qualify for state/ federal funding. Failure to respond to the census may result in an interruption in voter status, becoming an inactive voter, and being removed from the active voting list.

Completing a census form does not register you to vote. If you are a registered voter, there will be a party affiliation by your name (i.e. D, R, U, etc.). Updates to your party affiliation can be made in person at our office or by going online to https://www.sec.state. ma.us/OVR/.

Dog Licenses

Dog license forms will also be included in your census mailing. Please remember DOG TAGS EXPIRE ON MARCH 31st. Massachusetts General Law states dogs must be licensed annually, with proof of a current rabies vaccination. Failure to comply may result in a by-law citation fee. You can renew the license in-person or by mail. If you would like to have the dog tag mailed to you, please return your completed form to us along with a self-addressed stamped envelope and a check made payable to the Town of Seekonk. As a reminder, license fees are waived for residents 70 years of age or older. However, you still need to apply for the license and show the dog is current on their rabies vaccine.

Annual Town Election

The Annual Seekonk Town Election will be held Monday April 7, 2025. Nomination papers are available in the Town Clerk’s office. The deadline to return completed nomination papers to the Town Clerk’s office is Tuesday, February 14, 2025 at 5:00PM. If you are not registered to vote, but would like to vote at town election, the deadline to register is March 28, 2025.

To run for an elected position, you must be a registered voter in the town. Candidates must obtain a minimum of 50 signatures from registered voters in the Town of Seekonk. We recommend obtaining more signatures in case some signatures are unable to be verified. If signatures are not legible, they cannot be counted. A street address (not P.O. Box) is required from each person signing your papers.

Elected positions for the April 7, 2025

Annual Town Election

• One seat for the Board of Assessors (3-year term)

• Three seats for The Library Board of Trustees (3-year term)

• Two seats for the Planning Board (5-year term)

• One seat for the Planning Board (4-year term)

• Two seats for the School Committee (3-year term)

• One seat for the Select Board (3-year term)

• One seat for the Water Commission (3-year term)

Absentee & Early Voting Ballot Applications Request for 2025:

Absentee ballot applications are available in our office or on our website (https://www.seekonk-ma.gov/280/Town-Clerk). If you want to be put on the permanent absentee ballot mailing list, please fill out the form and check off “for all elections.” This form needs to be filled out each year.

To qualify as an absentee voter:

• You will be away from your town on Election Day

• You have a religious belief that prevents you from voting at your polling location on Election Day

• You have a disability that prevents you from voting at your polling location

• You are on active military duty

• You are a U.S. citizen living outside the U.S.

• You are requesting an emergency absentee ballot due to hospitalization

• You are currently incarcerated for a reason other than a felony conviction

If you do not qualify for as absentee voter, you can complete the vote by mail application which can be found on our website or at https://www.sec.state.ma.us/divisions/elections/download/ vote-by-mail-applications/vote-by-mail-paper-application-2023.pdf. Applications for both absentee and vote-by-mail must be received by the Town Clerk by 5PM on the 5th business day before an election. We recommend applying earlier than the deadline to be sure it is received in time.

Other Reminders

Fiscal Year 2025 Actual Real Estate Tax Bills and Personal Property Tax Bills will be mailed the first week in January (Quarter 3 due 2/3/25 and Quarter 4 due 5/1/25). Also Fiscal Year 2025 disposal bills were due 10/17/2024, please contact the Collector’s office for an up-to-date balance if you have not submitted payment yet.

30-Day Public Review Period for Revised Electricity Aggregation Plan - The public review period is open until January 13, 2025.

The Town of Seekonk is holding a 30-day public review period for its revised aggregation plan for Seekonk Community Electricity Aggregation. Seekonk CEA is our Town’s official electricity supply program, active since 2016.

The aggregation plan describes how our electricity program is structured and operated. Seekonk secured approval for our original aggregation plan from the Department of Public Utilities (DPU) in 2015. In July 2024, the DPU issued new rules for aggregation plans, called “Guidelines for Municipal Aggregators”. The guidelines expand local authority for cities and towns concerning the operation of their programs and increase public transparency about program operations. The revisions to our aggregation plan ensure that the plan aligns with the new guidelines.

The revised plan will not impact Seekonk CEA’s current electricity supply options and prices which are fixed until November 2025 through our supply contract with Constellation. No action is required by existing participants to continue receiving the current pricing.

On the program website, MassCEA.com/Seekonk, you can review both the revised plan and the current plan. You can also watch a short video describing the revised plan and read the DPU Guidelines. The program website has a comment form to provide written comments, or you can email support_ma@goodenergy. com with the subject line “Seekonk Plan Comments.” Good Energy is the consultant that developed and manages our program on a day-to-day basis.

Town Hall Hours

Town Offices will be closed to observe Martin Luther King, Jr. Day on Monday, January 20, 2025.

We hope you have a wonderful month. As always, please contact us (508) 336-2920 or by email at townclerk@seekonk-ma.gov if you have any questions. Thank you for taking the time to read the Town Clerk’s Office monthly update.

~Kristen and Lorraine

*Sustainable Seekonk*

By Christine Zadykovich, Recycling Coordinator

@ Seekonk DPW 508-336-7407

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

Seekonk Transfer Station/TARF (351 Fall River Ave) is open year round Mon-Fri 8am-3pm for drop off of yard waste (leaves, grass, twigs). Upcoming Bulky Waste Days: Mar 8, Apr 12, May 10. Passes are $29 and can be purchased at the DPW offices.

Seekonk DPW Offices (871 Taunton Ave) has textile collection bins & a Terracycle collection shed in the parking lot, and rechargeable batteries collection bin and eye glasses collection inside the lobby. Drop off fluorescent light bulbs-including CFL bulbs & tubes. These should never go in your curbside bins! Single use alkaline batteries, incandescent & LED bulbs can go in your blue bag trash. String lights & extension cords are also accepted anytime. Propane tanks can be dropped off w/ purchase of blue sticker $8.50. Bulky Waste Pickup stickers available for the 2nd & 4th Weds of each month for most items, 3rd Tues for metal/electronics, & 3rd Weds for mattresses/boxsprings.

Sustainability Survey: The Recycling Committee wants to hear from you! There is a survey posted on the Recycling Committee page on the town website www.Seekonk-MA.gov please help us understand what you’re interested in, what you need help with and what you’d like to see.

Food Waste Compost Collection at TARF: Black Earth Compost collection where residents can bring household food waste. Accepted items include: fruits & vegetables, egg shells, bread, cereal, meat & bones, wooden chopsticks & toothpicks, coffee grinds & filters and more. See BlackEarthCompost.com for a full list and tips on collection & transport. You can dump food waste directly into the bins or use certified compostable bags-no plastic bags please!

Don’t Trash It! Consider donating items that are still usable. If items are broken or no longer usable, pick up a special recycling packet at DPW or town website for FREE recycling resources.

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

Recycling Tip of The Month: Textiles are banned from the waste stream in the state of Massachusetts-that means that your old shirts, pants, towels, socks and hats should never be thrown in the trash (unless soiled with hazardous chemicals or bodily fluids that cannot be washed out.) Even your old ripped towels can be used for textile recycling and made into a new product by depositing into the white collection bins at the DPW and each of the schools.

They accept any clothing, shoes, hats, belts, towels, curtains, sheets, blankets, small throw rugs in ANY condition (reusable condition or not, stains and holes are ok)-but please only items that are clean & dry.

Please remember to recycle right, and…. Reduce-ReuseRecycle (in THAT order!)

Seekonk High School

Shows Spirit for Doorways Food Pantry

The Seekonk High School community raised a staggering $1,215.00 during Spirit Week. Many thanks to teacher Linda Horton, who orchestrated the event again this year, and to the students, faculty and staff of the high school who gave so generously to help neighbors in need.

Seekonk First Responders Care for Their Neighbors

The men and women of the Seekonk Fire Department and Seekonk Police Department reached out to Doorways to help this Holiday Season. They arrived a week before Christmas bearing several large turkeys and boxes of sorely needed cookies and breakfast cereal, demonstrating their commitment to the welfare of their neighbors in the community. We thank them heartily!

Seekonk Lions Take a Bite Out of Hunger

The Seekonk Lions took a huge bite out of hunger this Christmas by presenting the Doorways Food Pantry with a check for $5,000.00 to combat food uncertainty in our community. We thank the Lions for their continued positive effect in the community.

Pictured: Evan Akers, Officer Nagel, Lt. Doug Young, Lt. Adam Clement, Ted Tyler, Jay LaFleur, Officer Alisia Kelly, Fire Chief Shaun Whalen and Big Mac, the English Lab

(L to R) Gerry McCabe of Doorways, Paul Buckley, President of the Seekonk Lions Club, and fellow Lion and proprietor of Micheletti’s restaurant, John Whitelaw

The McGovern Family’s Annual Toy Drive Brings Joy to

For the past seven years, the McGovern family’s Christmas tradition is to conduct a massive toy drive to benefit the children of Doorways client families. The tradition started when daughter Kaylen was a seventh-grade student at Hurley Middle School and decided to organize that first toy drive for Christmas. She enlisted the help of sisters Kerrin and Marley to collect over one hundred items for needy children in Seekonk. In the years that followed, the toy drive has grown to include the entire McGovern clan, their extended family, their neighbors and friends, and the Seekonk High School community. Jennifer McGovern says the effort has added richness to the family’s celebration of Christmas.

This year, the toy drive collected hundreds of toys which were laid out in an immense Toyland display, and parents and grandparents from Doorways were invited to select gifts for their youngsters. The toys were destined to become the Christmas morning delights of 113 local children, more than half of whom were under the age of 12. But the toy drive also served to delight those adults who were able to select gifts for their little ones. The toys, then, are a double gift – they bring smiles to the face of parent and child alike.

The McGovern family would like to thank everyone who contributed to the toy drive. And the community at Doorways, volunteers and clients alike, would like to thank all of our supporters and benefactors in the Town of Seekonk. May God bless us all as we close out the Christmas season and look forward in hope to the New Year.

East Providence/ Seekonk Rotary Support Doorways Food Pantry

Rotary President David Kent (right) presents a check to Gerry McCabe of Doorways. For many years the East Providence/ Seekonk Rotary Club has made annual contributions to combat hunger in our community. Doorways was one of several local charities to receive help from Rotary.

The McGovern family has collected toys for Doorways for the past seven years. (L to R: Brian, Jennifer, Marley, Kaylen, and Kerrin McGovern.)

TV9 Has New Deal

By Joe Siegel

Following months of intense negotiations, the Town has signed a new contract with Seekonk Cable Access Corporation, which controls TV9. The Select Board approved the contract at Wednesday’s meeting. In addition, Seekonk Cable Access was designated as the PEG (Public, Education, and Government) access provider for the town.

“We finally got to a good agreement that I believe works for both sides,” said Board member Michael Healy. “I want to thank everybody that was involved.”

“TV9 is very pleased to renew our service and commitment to the community of Seekonk,” TV9 Board President Andrea Rosseter said in a statement.

TV9 had suspended operations on April 1. The website was also taken offline. Tensions between the town and Seekonk Cable Access had intensified after $128,000 in funding designated for TV9 was withheld.

Select Board meetings were being broadcast on the Town’s YouTube channel. They will now be broadcast once again on TV9.

School Committee Debates Recommendation Letters to Private Schools

By Joe Siegel

The Seekonk School Committee discussed a district procedure which prohibits sending letters of recommendation to private schools.

“It’s not a policy so it wouldn’t be something that the school committee creates,” committee chair Meaghan Mahoney said Monday. “This started with our special education attorney over four years ago and it began with requests for placements at a specialized school.” Mahoney said the procedure is posted on the school websites and in the school newsletters.

“I don’t know why we would choose to not fill out the recommendation for a child with special needs,” said member Kyle Juckett. “I don’t see the difference there. If a parent wants to send their child somewhere else or if their child wants to go somewhere else and that parent is willing to make that change, I don’t know why we would try to stop them. “I want to make sure that families choose where their (children) go to school.”

“In no way are any members of Seekonk school administration attempting to use this process to obstruct students from leaving the district,” said Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell. “A lot of the time this is a district that prefers to make a conservative choice. We are implementing the choice that we have been advised to make. What we want is for students and families from this town to have the best opportunities they can. No one is being denied the opportunity to go through this process. There’s definitely a higher level of anxiety from some parents about this and I totally understand that.”

Kidwell explained the district has tuition relationships with Bristol Agricultural High School and Tri County Regional Vocational High School. “They are public schools and their application process is supposed to be more equitable, which is why I’m saying the state is revising that process,” Kidwell noted. “I promise we’re following the guidance that we have and I promise you that there is a difference there. We would never argue for discrimination.”

Juckett said it’s discriminatory to not send letters to special education schools or “faith-based” institutions of learning.

“Those are funded by the family individually,” Kidwell replied. “And when we write the recommendation, we risk taking on the funding liability as a town.”

Mahoney said the committee agreed “this issue warrants further investigation and aims to work with the school administration to find a solution that ensures students can continue receiving the letters while safeguarding the school department.”

Seekonk DPW Facility Might Be Revived

By Joe Siegel

Although Town Meeting voters rejected plans for a new Department of Public Works (DPW) facility, the Seekonk Select Board said the project could be revived.

The $40 million facility would have been located on Town-owned land at 351 Fall River Avenue. The proposed design was for a 61, 815 square-foot building. DPW Director David Cabral explained the current building on Route 44 is 75 years old and lacks necessities including showers and restrooms. Cabral noted the garage is unable to accommodate large vehicles.

Michael Brady, a member of the Finance Committee, acknowledged the need for a new facility but believed the cost was too high.

Board members believe a lack of advocacy on their part resulted in the defeat. “Our board was all in support of this project,” member Justin Sullivan said at the board’s December 4 meeting. “None of

us spoke up. We let the residents down on that and I think we let the guys at DPW down on that.”

Member Pam Pozzi agreed with Sullivan, stating the board “failed to provide the background” on warrant articles to the voters.

Sullivan acknowledged the residents “spoke loud and clear” and that it was “back to the drawing board” for a new DPW.

Town Administrator Shawn Cadime outlined the steps necessary to get the project up and running, including an appropriation from Town Meeting, the hiring of an OPM (Office of the Project Manager), a feasibility study, and a new architectural design.

Member Michael Healy was “happy” with the large turnout at Town Meeting but expressed criticism for the way the Town Moderator handled some votes near the end.

“The end of that meeting, in my opinion, was an absolute disaster,” Healy said. “How it was managed by the Moderator, to me, was absolutely deplorable.”

Cadime Finalist for Dartmouth TA Job

By Joe Siegel

Seekonk Town Administrator Shawn Cadime is being interviewed by the Town of Dartmouth’s Select Board.

Cadime is one of the finalists for the Town Administrator position. Each interview is expected to last 90 minutes and will be conducted in an open meeting at Town Hall, 400 Slocum Road, in Room 304. Dartmouth Community Television will record the interviews, and they will be available on the Dartmouth Community Media YouTube Channel once all interviews have been conducted.

Cadime has been serving as Seekonk Town Administrator for over 10 years. Cadime had previously served as Fall River City Administrator. He ran an unsuccessful campaign for Mayor but now serves on the City Council.

In 2015, Cadime applied to become Town Administrator in Somerset. After he was offered the job, Seekonk Selectmen convinced Cadime to stay by promising a new contract with a bump in salary. Cadime’s three year contract expires in 2025. His salary is $191, 830.

In 2022, Cadime received a positive job evaluation from the Board of Selectmen. “I’ve been very impressed with how you’re able to keep all the alligators at bay in the swamp, for sure,” then Chairman Justin Sullivan said. “We compliment you often on your financial acumen. You’ve dealt with a lot of issues over the last several years. We’ve seen some strong growth and some good contributions for the department heads here and we’re looking forward to see how that continues to develop.”

Ex-Seekonk Police Chief Wins Settlement

By Joe Siegel

Former Police Chief Dean Isabella has won a $136,841.63 settlement from the Town of Seekonk. Chief Isabella was placed on administrative leave by Town Administrator Shawn Cadime in January 2023. The Board of Selectmen voted to terminate Isabella’s employment soon after.

Isabella filed suit against the Town for violations of his constitutional, legal and contractual rights. He had nearly a year remaining on his three-year contract.

Isabella was hired in December 2020. Prior to Isabella’s termination, Cadime said the police department needed to undergo a “directional shift.”

“The Town of Seekonk’s decision to terminate me without cause not only breached my contract but also undermined the principles of fairness and accountability that every public institution should

uphold,” Isabella said on Wednesday. “Their actions have caused lasting damage to my professional reputation and livelihood, and I will continue to seek justice for this unjust treatment.”

Isabella is still seeking $2.2 million in damages for the harm he believes was inflicted to his career and reputation, which remains pending in the Massachusetts Federal District Court in Boston.

Cadime declined to comment on the settlement.

“This case underscores the responsibility of public institutions to act in good faith and respect the rule of law,” said Isabella’s attorney, Eric S. Brainsky.

“We look forward to prosecuting the second half of this case in Federal Court where we will continue to fight for justice and accountability for Chief Isabella.”

In a 2023 interview, Isabella told the Reporter that under his leadership, the department had either “met or exceeded” the standards used to determine a successful police department.

“We have reduced crime every year for the last two years,” Isabella noted. “As far as professionalism is concerned, we have had only one civilian complaint lodged. I think that’s a testament to the professionalism of the officers involved but also a testament to the command staff and the standard by which they hold those officers.”

Country Kitchen Closed Its Doors on December 22nd

By Joe Siegel

Country Kitchen, which has been hosting diners for four decades, shut its doors for good on December 22nd.

Owner Mark Chandley is retiring after 34 years and wants to lead a quieter life, according to his niece Tracy, who has been working at the restaurant for many years. “He just wants to enjoy some free time,” Tracy noted. “Spend time with his grandkids and his family. It was a very hard decision to come to, if it wasn’t for his health (Mark) would’ve kept going. Like his Dad, he didn’t want to lose his life to the place and I don’t blame him.”

Chandley’s father bought the property on Taunton Avenue in 1980. Mark helped his father on a part-time basis in the 1980s and later took over operations in 1990.

Popular dishes included sausage hash and chourico hash omelets, strawberry cream waffles, apple cream waffles. “He makes a chili and cheese omelet with his home made chili,” Tracy noted. “Raspberry corn pancakes, home fries – he has his own little flair to them.

Tracy said the patrons are dismayed by news of the closing: “People just stopped in daily-it’s like a second home for a lot of them, and they are going to miss it as much as we are.”

Seekonk: The Year in Review

By Joe Siegel

Major financial decisions and a leadership change for one of the town’s Public Safety departments were among the big stories in 2024.

Department of Public Works Building

A proposed $40 million facility for the Seekonk Department of Public Works was rejected at November’s Fall Town Meeting. The facility would have been located on Town-owned land at 351 Fall River Avenue. The proposed design was for a 61, 815 square-foot building.

DPW Director David Cabral explained the current building on Route 44 is 75 years old and lacks necessities including showers and restrooms. Cabral noted the garage is unable to accommodate large vehicles.

Town Administrator Shawn Cadime said the DPW was the “backbone of this community,” noting the employees had done “a phenomenal job with the lack of space they have.”

Cadime said a debt exclusion, which is a temporary tax increase, would have been necessary to pay for the bonds over a 30 year period. The owner of an average single family home would have paid an additional $272 a year to pay for the project.

Valter Rego Masonry

The Select Board pledged to go ahead with plans for a new building. “Our board was all in support of this project,” member Justin Sullivan said at the December 4 meeting. “None of us spoke up. We let the residents down on that and I think we let the guys at DPW down on that.”

Member Pam Pozzi agreed with Sullivan, stating the board “failed to provide the background” on warrant articles to the voters. Sullivan acknowledged the residents “spoke loud and clear” and that it was “back to the drawing board” for a new DPW.

Purchase of Firefly Golf Course

Voters did approve the Select Board to go ahead with the purchase of the old Firefly golf course on Fall River Avenue. That property, along with 55 acres on Arcade Avenue, will cost $6.9 million. Developer Charles Tapalian had hoped to construct 280 housing units on the property.

David Andrade, a former member of the Board of Selectmen, warned of the consequences of allowing more residential construction. Families with children would be moving in, which would result in an increased population for the schools, Andrade noted. “You don’t know what’s coming if you vote no,” Andrade said.

Select Board Chair Michelle Hines told the assembly there were no immediate plans for the property. “We’re going to need new things,” Hines said. “Think of what’s coming up if we don’t buy this land.”

Zoning Bylaws Amendment

Voters also approved amending the Town’s Zoning Bylaws to create a Multifamily Development Overlay District. The purpose is to allow for the development of multifamily housing development in accordance with G.L. c. 40A, § 3A, and to promote the development of a variety of housing sizes and types.

Town Planner John Aubin noted the town would be in compliance with the state’s MBTA Communities Act. The Act requires 177 Cities and Towns to establish “at least 1 district of reasonable size in which multi-family housing is permitted as of right.” Where possible, the district must be within a half mile from public transportation (commuter rail, bus station, ferry terminal or subway). MBTA Communities must permit the development of housing suitable for families with children, and may not impose age restrictions, within the district.

The new 90 acre Overlay District will provide capacity for as many as 750 housing units.

Michael Brady, a member of the Finance Committee, warned about an influx of new families moving into town. Building 750 units would impact the police and fire departments, as well as put a strain on the school system, Brady noted.

New Fire Chief

Shawn Whalen was appointed to serve as Fire Chief last March. Whalen has been with the department for over 22 years. Adam Dalessio was appointed to serve as Deputy Chief. Former Chief Sandra Lowery retired last February after two years in the position. Michael Small, a former Falmouth Fire Chief, served as Chief on an interim basis until a permanent replacement could be appointed.

TV9 Shutdown

Local access channel TV9 shut down operations in April. Tensions between the town and Seekonk Cable Access had intensified after $128,000 in funding designated for TV9 was withheld. Those funds are given to the town by Comcast for the purpose of providing PEG access to the subscribers.

Last May, the Select Board voted to rescind the designation of the Seekonk Cable Access Corporation as the cable access provider for the town. Cadime said the town’s legal counsel had made the recommendation.

Hines, Sullivan, and Chris Zorra were ‘yes’ votes, with Pozzi in opposition. Michael Healy abstained.

Healy said that he was “extremely disappointed” about government meetings not being recorded and hoped a resolution to the conflict would be forthcoming.

A new contract with TV9 was approved on December 17. TV9’s PEG access designation was restored.

Growing Student Population Taxes School Department

The Seekonk School Department struggled to come up with a reconfiguration plan to deal with a growing student population. For the 2023-2024 school year, there were a total of 2,061 students with 1,021 students at Aitken/Martin and 1,034 students at Hurley and the high school.

One option which had been proposed would be to move the fifth grade out of Aitken and Martin elementary schools to Hurley Middle School. School Committee member Emily Field said the parents she has spoken with were not in favor of moving fifth grade students to Hurley.

In 2021, the 10 classroom addition to Aitken Elementary School was completed at a cost of $11 million. Former School Superintendent Rich Drolet said the project was needed to reduce class sizes.

“I think it would be a mistake of us to assume the Aitken project was going to fix everything,” said School Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell. “We’re definitely coming up on the edges of what we can sustain.”

The impact on special education will be costly, according to Kidwell. “If we cannot increase our in-district special education programming because of space limitations, there would be an increase in out of district tuition costs. There are five to seven students likely to be in this classroom.” Kidwell noted the cost per student would be $90,000 for a total of $540,000.

Club News & ANNOUNCEMENTS

Seekonk Lions Club Meeting Schedule

Winter/Spring 2025

(Dates and Times Subject to Change)

• January 23, 2025 Board of Directors 7:00pm American Legion. Pizza and Pint Pairings. All members welcome.

• February 27, 2025 Board of Directors 7:00pm American Legion. Chinese and Cheer. All members welcome.

• March 20, 2025 Full Membership Dinner meeting Ledgemont Country Club 7pm. Cocktails 6:30pm

• April 24, 2025 Board of Directors Ledgemont Country Club 7pm. Cocktails 6:30pm

• May 22, 2025 Board of Directors 7:00pm American Legion or Ledgemont Country Club TBD. All members welcome.

• June 26, 2025 Annual Lions Meeting Ledgemont Country Club 7pm. Cocktails 6:30pm Events

• March 27, 2025 Clam Boil Fund Raiser Seekonk Gun Club $40.00. Email Lions for tickets

• Monday April 21, 2025 THE BIG DAY… Fishing Derby 9am Grist Mill Pond. Taste of the Town 5pm at Ledgemont Country Club.

• Monday May 12, 2025 Seekonk Lions Club/ East Providence Rotary Golf Tournament 1pm at Ledgemont Country Club. Visit our Web Page, Facebook and Email. STAY TUNED!!! Thank you.

Paul Buckley, President Seekonk Lions Charitable Trust Inc. Seekonk Lions | Facebook Seekonklionsma@gmail.com

Hornbine School Museum Adds Granite Posts

The Hornbine School Museum had four granite posts installed in front of the playground beside the school recently. This was to help protect our students from potential traffic accidents while playing outside. We thank The Rehoboth Highway Department for installing the four granite posts in December 2024. Search “Hornbine School Museum Granite Posts” on YOU TUBE for a video of the installation. Video: https://youtu.be/AOZ5C2z9neE?si=fYWXeaYjJP5otq_c

Christmas Awards 2024 at Ledgemont CC

George and Paul singing Hawaiian Christmas 2024

Rehoboth Lions Club News

The Rehoboth Lions Club is proud to announce our first Family Fun Bingo Night. Join your neighbors for Bingo night at Goff Hall on March 7th, 6:30 PM. The entire family is invited!

Cards are just $5 each or 3 for $10. Prizes for the winners! Call Karen at 508509-0020 or Mike at 508-222-2656 for more details!

Please mark your calendars and think about who you would like to nominate for the Russ Latham Rehoboth Lions Citizens Recognition night. Get your applications submitted early in advance of the April 13th deadline. The dinner and presentation will be held on May 21, 2025.

The Nomination form can also be filled out online at https://rehobothlions.org/event/ russell-latham-citizens-recognition-night/

Finally, the Rehoboth Lions Club is a coed club, and we are always looking for new members to join our mission of serving the community. If you’re interested in making a difference, we encourage you to attend one of our upcoming meetings or reach out for more information. Together, we can continue to make a positive impact on the lives of those in need.

For more information or to join the Lions Club, be sure to check our website at www. rehobothLions.org for more details and opportunities to get involved.

Rehoboth Garden Club

Rehoboth Lions Club 1957-2025

2025 Nomination Form

The Russell Latham Citizens Recognition Awards Night

The Rehoboth Lions Club will honor people whose service to the community has surpassed

Expectations at a"RECOGNITION NIGHT BANQUET" to be held at Hillside Country Club on Wednesday May 21,2025

This form provide opportunity to nominate a person deserving in any of the following areas.

*** Please check the appropriate award and attach your one page nomination statement

1. JOSEPH DEROCHE OUTSTANDING SERVICE AWARD - Presented to a person whose service to the has served a wide range of the population and has required effort above and beyond that expected of the community general public

2. OUTSTANDING YOUTH - A young person whose personal qualities and achievements serve as models for other young people in the community

3. PUBLIC SERVANT - Presented to an elected or appointed town official or municipal employee whose actions have surpassed the expectations of there position

4. RAYMOND G. DYER HUMAMITARIAN AWARD - A person who actions and deeds have fostered attitudes of good will and fairness to all people of the community

5. RUSSELL LATHAM EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR- Presented to the professional educator in Rehoboth or DR HS whose dedication to the students and whose accomplishments in the field of education serve as models to both active professionals and those entering the profession

6. HEROISM AWARD - Presented to the person who placed personal saftey in jeopardy while aiding someone else in need

7. SENIOR CITIZEN OF THE YEAR - Presented to the senior citizen whose l1fe and accomplishments have served as an inspiration to others

8. OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT - A local resident may be recognized for individual accomplishment

9. RANDALL P. SILVEIRA PUBLIC SAFTY AWARD- A person of commitment, dedication and compassion while playing a key roll in promoting public safty in The Town of Rehoboth

Serving with Pride, Don Nokes, President, The Rehoboth Lions Club Recognition Night Banquet

10. ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP AWARD - In recognition of your significant contribution to, and long term stewardship and protection of Rehoboth's landscape

11.RICHARD NOONS COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD - Presented to an individual who has consistently been a leader in the community activities and service to others

12. GOOD NEIGHBOR AWARD - Presented in recognition of the many selfless acts to assist neighbors as well as community groups

January 2025

Happy New Year! To kick off 2025, our January meeting will feature “Our Flying Feathered Friends” program, presented by Dr. Charles Clarkson, Director of Avian Research at the Audubon Society of Rhode Island. Bird populations are on the decline. Avian bird flu is in the news. Urban development has caused birds to lose their habitats and food sources. Light pollution is disrupting migration patterns. This engaging and educational lecture promises to enrich our understanding and appreciation of our feathered friends, their impact in our ecosystem, and what we can do to support and benefit our own backyard birds. The community is invited to attend this event on Monday, January 20, 2025, at 9:30 AM at the Rehoboth Congregational Church Fellowship Hall, 139 Bay State Road.

New members are always welcome. For club and membership information, please contact Michael Seebeck at michaeljseebeck@gmail.com or 401-787-5206.

Bristol County Fifes and Drums Annual Workshop on 2/2

What to expect: Have you ever wanted to march in the Bristol 4th of July Parade? Bristol County Fifes and Drums is holding a workshop on Sunday, February 2, at 2 P.M. at the American Drum Company, 879 Arcade Ave in Seekonk, MA. Come play a fife, a drum, and ask us about joining! bristolcountyfifesanddrums.org

Tree Pruning • Removal

East Providence/Seekonk Rotary Club Supports Local Nonprofits

Nine organizations receive $500 each at Rotary Charitable Giving Luncheon

The Rotary Club of East Providence/Seekonk held its annual Charitable Giving Luncheon recently, donating a total of $4,500 to local nonprofit organizations in East Providence and Seekonk.

The following nonprofits each received $500: Aldersbridge Communities (East Providence; Brain Injury Association of Rhode Island (East Providence); Doorways (Seekonk); East Bay Community Action Program (East Providence); Feed RI (East Providence; formerly We Share Hope); Good Neighbors (East Providence); Jules Hope Chest (East Providence); Newman YMCA (Seekonk); and TapIn Food Pantry (Barrington).

Guest representatives from each organization were invited to join the Rotary Club members for a catered lunch and to share with attendees how the donated funds will be used.

“We hold several fundraisers each year, such as our charity golf tournament, with the sole purpose of giving away the funds to worthy causes right in our own local community,” states David Kent, 2024-25 president of the Rotary Club of East Providence/Seekonk. “Our special Charitable Luncheon is an opportunity for us Rotarians to learn more about the good work of these organizations, and to express our deep appreciation for all that they do for the residents of East Providence, Seekonk and beyond. Together, we help make our communities a better place.”

Chartered in 1946, the Rotary Club of East Providence, RI/ Seekonk, MA is a local club of Rotary International, based in Chicago, IL. Rotary is an organization of business and professional persons united worldwide who provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world. Members are “people of action” helping their local communities, and the motto is “Service Above Self.” Club meetings are held on the third Monday of every month at East Providence City Hall, and new members are welcome. For more information, visit www.epseekonkrotary.org or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RotaryClubofEastProvidenceSeekonk

DONATING TO WORTHY CAUSES: East Providence/ Seekonk Rotary Club President David Kent presents each of the

following nonprofit organizations and their representative(s) with a check for $500:

Aldersbridge Communities/Director of Development Elise Strom

East Providence/Seekonk Rotary Club Comedy Fundraiser

Saturday, February 1, 2025

The Rotary Club of East Providence/Seekonk will host a Dollars for Scholars comedy fundraiser on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at the Cape Verdean Club located at 329 Grosvenor Avenue in East Providence. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. and the PG-rated show will begin at 7:00 p.m.

All proceeds will benefit the Rotary club’s annual scholarship program for local students from East Providence High School, St. Mary’s Academy/Bay View, and Seekonk High School pursuing higher education.

The 18+ event will feature performances by several of New England’s top local comedians provided by Funny4Funds. Other fundraising opportunities for the Club’s educational cause include proceeds from raffle prizes and a 50/50 drawing.

The cost of admission is $20 per person. Cash bar will be available for purchase. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own snacks.

“For over 40 years, our Rotary Club’s Educational Trust has given out scholarships to high schools in East Providence and Seekonk from the funds raised at events such as this,” states David Kent, 2024-25 president of The Rotary Club of East Providence/ Seekonk. “We welcome individuals, businesses and organizations who wish to help sponsor this important cause in support of local students and their educational goals, and to encourage everyone to purchase a ticket or a table. It’s such a fun night out.”

For tickets, to donate, or to sponsor the event, please visit the Rotary Dollars for Scholars link at funny4funds.com/events https:// www.funny4funds.com/events/rotary-dollars-for-scholars/1473 or contact Lori DiPersio at (401) 578-5317 or ldipersio24@gmail.com.

East Bay CAP/VP of Family Development

Rita Capotosto

Feed RI/Executive Director

Johanna Corcoran

Good Neighbors/Executive Director

Kate Mishipi and Board President Stephen Higgins

Jules Hope Chest/CEO and Founder Julie Silva

Newman YMCA/Executive Director Dennisse Medina

American Legion Post 302 Public Events

• Try our Fish & Chips or Specials of the Week – every Thursday 4:00 till 7:00 P.M. & Fridays 4:00 – 7:30PM and Saturdays with a Band ONLY 6:00-7:30PM.Take Outs are welcome – call in your order in early for pickup at 508-252-9079

• Happy Hour! Sun, Mon, Tues, Wed 1/2 price Bar Menu 3-6:00PM

• Prize Bingo - Sunday December 15th at 5:00PM

• Trivia Tuesday and Darts Coming Soon - If you're interested in playing, email speedyjake@aol.com or call 315-415-2277

• 2nd Sunday of Every Month, “All you can Eat Breakfast” 7:30am – 10:30am

• Check us out on Facebook - Photos since 2018 posted by our patrons… https://www.facebook.com/pages/American-LegionHall/258235277540573

For Events: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/

Upcoming Events

• January 10th, 2025 - Friday - 7:00-10:00 P.M., Greg Hodde’s Blue Reign, Classic Rock – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart https:// open.spotify.com/artist/57RIFB8RMODxF0PXg6vVjT?si=%20 HGPY_GMWTAioT8epLo0GWg&nd=1

• January 11th, 2025 – Saturday - 7:00-10:00 P.M. - “3 CAN JAM” from Attleboro - Live Music Entertainment playing Classic & Rock – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Dancing & having a GREAT TIME! https://www.facebook.com/3CANJAM/

• January 12th, 2025 – Sunday -7:30 -10:30 A.M. American Legion Monthly Breakfast, Second Sunday of every month $12.00 donation - All you can Eat!

• January 17th, 2025 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – Rock-A-Blues Band with Classic Rock Music – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! https://www.rockablues.com

• January 18th, 2025 – Saturday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – Live Music with The 3 Sum Band - Classic Rock, Pop, Blues, Country, Motown and more – No Cover Charge! – Bar Food – Kitchens open – Fish & Chips - Check with the bar for the Specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, Dancing so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! https://www.facebook.com/groups/636053727522063/?ref=share

• January 19th, 2025 – Sunday -5:00 -7:00 P.M. PRIZE BINGO! American Legion Auxiliary, Third Sunday of every month $10.00 donation per 5 Games – Food – Drinks & having a GREAT TIME!

• January 24th, 2025 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M. - LM BACKWOODS Entertainment - 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

• January 25th, 2025 – Saturday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M.– Mike Higgins & The Dynamics - Live Music Entertainment playing Classic, Rock & Country - No Cover Charge! – Bar Food – Kitchens open – Fish & Chips - Check with the bar for the Specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, Dancing so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Mike and The Dynamics |Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ profile.php?id=100063173623981

• January 31st, 2025 – Friday - 6:00-8:00 P.M., Sons of the American Legion’s Monthly Meat Raffle followed by Karaoke8:00-11:00 P.M. – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Singing, Dancing & having a GREAT TIME!

• January 31st, 2025 – Friday - 8:00-11:00 P.M. + – Live Karaoke performed by our own Karaoke Entertainment, Come on in and sing a song or two – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME!

• February 1st, 2025 – Saturday – 7:00 -10-pm, Little Miss and the Boom Band - Modern Music – Vintage Style Acoustic with Brass! –– Drinks – Entertainment, Dancing so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! https://www.facebook.com/LittleMissAndTheBoomBand

• February 7th, 2025 - Friday - 7:00 - 10:00 P.M., – PO BOYS BAND – Classic Rock – No Cover Charge! – Food – Fish & Chips - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME!

• February 8th, 2025 - Saturday - 7:00 - 10:00 P.M., – On 3 Entertainment, Classic Rock – Classic Rock & County – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME!

• February 9th, 2025 – Sunday -7:30 -10:30 A.M. American Legion Monthly Breakfast, Second Sunday of every month $12.00 donation - All you can Eat!

• February 14th, 2025 - Friday - 7:00-10:00 P.M., Greg Hodde’s Blue Reign, Classic Rock – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart https:// open.spotify.com/artist/57RIFB8RMODxF0PXg6vVjT?si=%20 HGPY_GMWTAioT8epLo0GWg&nd=1

• February 15th, 2025 – Saturday – 7:00 -10-pm, “Vinyl Frontier Band” from Attleboro Area with Live Music Entertainment playing Classical Rock Music – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Dancing & having a GREAT TIME! https://www.facebook.com/ Vinylfrontierband/

• February 16th, 2025 – Sunday -5:00 -7:00 P.M. PRIZE BINGO! American Legion Auxiliary, Third Sunday of every month $10.00 donation per 5 Games – Food – Drinks & having a GREAT TIME!

• February 21st, 2025 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – Rock-A-Blues Band with Classic Rock Music – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! https://www.rockablues.com

• February 22nd, 2025 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – RENTED HALL

• February 28st, 2025 – Friday - 6:00-8:00 P.M., Sons of the American Legion’s Monthly Meat Raffle followed by Karaoke8:00-11:00 P.M. – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Singing, Dancing & having a GREAT TIME!

• February 28st, 2025 – Friday - 8:00-11:00 P.M. + – Live Karaoke performed by our own Karaoke Entertainment, Come on in and sing a song or two – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME!

• March 1st, 2025 – Saturday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M.– Mike Higgins & The Dynamics - Live Music Entertainment playing Classic, Rock & Country - No Cover Charge! – Bar Food – Kitchens open – Fish & Chips - Check with the bar for the Specials of the week – Drinks –Entertainment, Dancing so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Mike and The Dynamics |Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100063173623981

Celebrating the Winter Garden

Monday, January 13th at 6:00 PM

Join author and landscape horticulturist Warren Leach for a presentation on his new book, Plants for the Winter Garden. He will showcase gardens that celebrate the winter season, share planting design ideas for your own garden, and answer questions from the audience. Warren Leach is co-owner of Tranquil Lake Nursery in Rehoboth, Massachusetts, an award-winning landscape designer, and an experienced horticulture and design instructor.

This program is free and open to the public; for planning and to be notified of program updates please register in our Events Calendar at seekonkpl.org/events. For more information, call Adult Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email library@ seekonkpl.org.

Learn About Hunting Wild Mushrooms for Vegan Cooking

Wednesday, January 22nd at 6 PM

Wild mushrooms are considered by many to the best meat substitutes around, providing protein, chewy textures, and flavors that are astonishingly diverse and delicious. Join us at the library for the first event in our “Healthy New Year!” series, Mushrooms are the Meat on Wednesday, January 22 at 6 PM. You’ll learn about this amazing food source from Ryan Bouchard and Emily Schmidt, New England’s leading mushroom hunting teachers. This program is free and open to the public, but space is limited; registration is required. Register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events.

Using a slideshow of their own incredible all-local photography, Ryan and Emily will explain the basics of wild mushroom science and safety, with focus on the local species that are considered “safe for beginners” to cook with. The discussions will be accompanied by an ongoing wild mushroom cooking demonstration, where you can experience some extraordinary flavors for yourself, and get inspired to create wild mushroom recipes of your own. This class will show you inside a whole world of adventure that most people overlook. For more information or help registering, call Adult Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email library@seekonkpl.org.

Winter Film Series: Film Festival Sneak Peak

Saturday, Jan 25th at 10 AM

Good movies can make us feel like a kid again, giving us thrills and delights as we gain new experiences and feed our imaginations. Movie lovers of all ages are welcome to get that spark by joining us at Seekonk Public Library on Saturday, January 25 at 10 AM for Get Reel! Providence Children’s Film Festival Sneak Peek. Treat yourself to a round of original short films submitted from around the world that captivate and inspire with new perspectives on life, drawing out smiles and a good belly-laugh or two! The Providence Children’s Film Festival takes place annually in February presenting independent and international children’s cinema that demonstrate the art of filmmaking, provoke thoughtful discussion, and make connections with people and cultures. In November the library hosted a jury night to vote on which submitted films to include in this year’s festival; join us at this January event to see if some of your favorites made it in! You’ll get to see some of the best festival short film selections from previous years and get a sneak peak of this year’s picks! This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Seekonk Public Library and is free and open to the public. For planning purposes and to receive any program updates, please register in the online calendar at seekonkpl.org/events.

For more information call Adult Services at 508-336-8230 x56130 or email library@seekonkpl.org.

Nonfiction Book Club: 1491 by Charles C. Mann

Tuesday, January 28th at 6:00 PM

Join us for a lively discussion of 1491: New Revelations of the Americas Before Columbus by Charles C. Mann on Tuesday, January 28th at 6:00 PM at Seekonk Public Library. The title is available digitally as an ebook and audiobook through Libby, or you may place a hold and pick up a print copy at the library. New members are always welcome!

“Mann shows how a new generation of researchers equipped with novel scientific techniques have come to previously unheard-of conclusions about the Americas before the arrival of the Europeans: In 1491 there were probably more people living in the Americas than in Europe. Certain cities--such as Tenochtitlán, the Aztec capital--were greater in population than any European city. Tenochtitlán, unlike any capital in Europe at that time, had running water, beautiful botanical gardens, and immaculately clean streets. The earliest cities in the Western Hemisphere were thriving before the Egyptians built the great pyramids. Native Americans transformed their land so completely that Europeans arrived in a hemisphere already massively “landscaped” by human beings. Pre-Columbian Indians in Mexico developed corn by a breeding process that the journal Science recently described as “man’s first, and perhaps the greatest, feat of genetic engineering.”--From publisher description.

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

Explore the Winter Night Sky

Wednesday, Jan 29th at 6 PM

When we look into the night sky we see billions of stars. Looking closer, these stars reveal shapes and constellations seen and used by many peoples. Join us at Seekonk Public Library on Wednesday, January 29 at 6 PM for Winter Night Sky: Audubon Presentation to explore the night sky. You will learn how we have used the stars and constellations to navigate and explore the world around us. Winter is one of the best times for night viewing because the sky tends to

be clearer and the stars brighter because cold air doesn’t hold as much moisture and particulate matter as warm air. And in January and February, the Earth’s northern hemisphere looks out to the edge of our galaxy where there are fewer stars clustered together, so with the naked eye (or even a decent set of binoculars) you can get clearer views of the stars. Come to this program to learn more from Mass Audubon’s Oak Knoll Wildlife Sanctuary educators about how to appreciate the winter night; you’ll get inspired by the wonders available when you brave the cold, walk outside and look up!

For planning purposes and to be notified of event changes, register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events.

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

Get Moving This New Year with Bollywood Dance

Thursdays, February 6th and 20th at 6 PM

Move your body this winter by exploring the dynamic world of Bollywood dance, part of our Healthy New Year Series. Join us at Seekonk Public Library on Thursdays, February 6 and 20 for Introduction to Bollywood Dance to get started. You will learn basic moves and choreography in this expressive dance form highlighted in Indian cinema. This 2-week series taught by Sakina Sojar is open to all skill levels—whether you’re a seasoned dancer in any style or someone who’s never taken a dance class before, you are welcome to join the fun! Each class is approximately 45 minutes long. To actively participate you should come to both sessions, but you are welcome to come to just one to learn a few moves if space is available. This program is free and open to the public, but space is limited; registration is required. Register for one or both session dates separately in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/ events.

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

Friends of the Seekonk Public Library

Thank you to all who have been donating books and puzzles to the Friends. Your continuing donations make sales possible which allows programming to be possible for all ages.

Due to the success of our sales, we are in particular need of adult softcover fiction books, nonfiction hardcover, and softcover books published between the years 2019 and 2024. We also need children’s hardcover and softcover books for ages from birth to grade two.

If you would be interested in volunteering to help with our sales, you can go to our website at www.seekonkfol.org for an application or talk to a volunteer in the lobby about what you would do as a volunteer and you could get an application there.

Teen Services

Teen Advisory Board

Thursday, January 9th at 3:30 PM

**Please note: Meetings are for TAB members only. To join, visit seekonkpl.org/teens and download the TAB application. Email the finished application to teens@seekonkpl.org or turn it in at the Research Help Desk in the library.

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

AI Teacher

Thursday, January 16th at 3:00 PM

It’s time to take on AI again, and this time we’re going to show it who’s boss! Using a machine learning model, we’ll input training data into the Google app Teachable Machine. With enough training data, we can teach this AI app to learn the difference between apples and oranges, between M&Ms and Hershey’s Kisses, and even to recognize speech! This is a fun, easy introduction to the concept of machine learning models and an exploration of how we can make AI work for us.

This 1-hour event is free and open to tweens and teens in grades 6 through 12. Registration is required. Sign up using our new Events Calendar at seekonkpl.org/events.

Teen Book Discussion: All You Have to Do by Autumn Allen

Monday, January 27th at 6:00 PM

Join us for a book discussion of awardwinning Massachusetts author Autumn Allen’s debut YA novel, All You Have to Do. Then, come back to Seekonk Library in February to meet the author in person! From the author’s website: “As the two students, whose lives overlap in powerful ways, risk losing the opportunities their parents worked hard to provide, they move closer to discovering who they want to be instead of accepting how society and family define them.”

This 1-hour event is free and open to tweens and teens in grades 6 through 12. Registration is required. Sign up using our new Events Calendar at seekonkpl.org/ events.

Looking Ahead

An Author’s World: An Interview with Autumn Allen

Tuesday, February 11th at 6:00 PM

Autumn Allen is an award-winning author, editor, educator, and children’s literature specialist. Her debut young adult novel, All You Have to Do (Kokila/Penguin, 2023), was long listed for the Massachusetts Book Award and was a People Magazine must-read for fall 2023, a Kirkus Reviews Best Young Adult Book of 2023, and a Black Caucus of the ALA debut honor award winner. In an interview with Seekonk Library’s Teen Librarian, Carla Rennick, Autumn will discuss her novel, as well as what it’s like to be a published author and editor. She will answer questions about writing professionally, being a senior editor at Barefoot Books, and her work as a writing instructor for kids, teens, and adults. The interview will be followed by an audience Q&A and book signing. Copies of All You Have to Do will be available for purchase at the event. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Seekonk Public Library.

This 90-minute in-person event is free and open to the public. Space is limited and registration is required.

For more information on these and other programs, call Teen Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email teens@seekonkpl.org.

Youth Services

Kindness

Club-Kindness Challenge

Jan 1st-31st, drop-in

Stop in the Children’s room to pick up your Kindness Challenge Sheet between Wednesday, January 1, and Saturday, January 25. We challenge you to complete the acts of kindness by January 31. Once you have finished, return your completed form to the Children’s room to receive your kindness reward!

Kid Librarian of the Month

January 2nd-31st, February 1st-28th

Ages 7-12 Starting December 26, stop by the Children’s Room to fill out an application for the chance to become the Kid Librarian of the Month. As a Kid Librarian, you will receive an official t-shirt and be in charge of creating a book display with a theme of your choice. You will also make a sign to accompany the display. If needed, the Kid Librarian can ask the Librarian for assistance setting up the display.

The Kid Librarian of the Month will be selected during the second week of January, and their display will be showcased for the rest of the month. If chosen, you will be contacted by email or phone. All applications will remain on file.

Paws to Read

Wednesday, January 8th & 22nd, 3-4:30 PM (timeslots)

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. Research has shown that reading aloud to another person can help struggling readers with their overall performance and confidence. But did you know that reading comprehension improves even more when reading to a dog rather than an adult? It’s true! Each one-on-one private session is facilitated by Sandra Healey and her two dogs. Space is limited. Register.

Minecraft Club (Virtual)

Tuesdays, January 14th, 21st, and 28th, 6:30-7:30 PM

Grades 3-5 Join Ms Sandie for a virtual Minecraft adventure! We’ll meet virtually via Zoom and travel worlds together, building along the way using the library’s licenses for Minecraft Education Edition. Kids will need their own device such as an iPad or laptop/ desktop on which to download the program. A Switch or gaming device will not work. A commitment to all three weeks is required. For children in grades 3-5, independent reading is required. No Minecraft experience is required. Register.

Beyblade Club

Wednesday, January 15th 4-5 PM, Grades 1-5

Drop in Join us at the library for Beyblade Club for kids in grades 1-5. We will have free play time to battle (bring your Beyblades and stadiums or use the library’s limited supply). This program is drop-in; no registration is required. Come battle some Beyblades and meet some new friends!

Arctic Animals

Friday, January 17th, 3:30 - 4:30 PM

Grades K-2 Join us for some Arctic fun! Learn about the animals that inhabit the Arctic, play a game, and create your own Arctic Animal craft. Please Register.

Take Your Child to the Library Day

Saturday, February 1st, 10 AM-3 PM

Celebrate Take Your Child to the Library Day at our open housestyle event! Discover hands-on activities such as our Kindness Club Valentine-making station, engaging STEM kits, brick building, and educational resources. Chat with the Children’s Librarians to learn about our programs and services for the entire family.

Tuesday, February 4th, 6:30-7:30 PM

Grades 1-5 Join Becky from Mermaid Masterpieces for an unforgettable high-energy paint party! Perfect for kids in grades 1-5, this fun-filled event invites young artists to dive into a world of color and creativity. Becky will lead the group through a painting class, sometimes using music and interactive challenges to keep everyone engaged and inspired. Each child will leave with their own unique masterpiece, along with cherished memories of laughter and artistic expression. Get ready to unleash your imagination and make a splash with paint! Register.

Storytimes

Baby Storytime

Ages 0-18 Months

Tuesdays, January 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th

Join Ms Corey for a weekly storytime designed for children 0 - 18 months old. Bring a small baby blanket for the floor and enjoy a book followed by music, fingerplays & movement. Afterward, enjoy free

time for belly time. It’s an important way to help babies strengthen their neck and shoulder muscles, and improve motor skills. Babies will be free to crawl through a tunnel, play with toys, read a board book, and enjoy some bubbles with you. Drop in.

Toddler Storytime

Ages

18-36 months

Mondays, January 13th, 27th

Join Ms Corey for a weekly storytime designed for children 18 – 36 months old. The storytime will include a book or two followed by music, fingerplays, movement, and yes, even bubbles! Drop in.

Preschool Storytime

Ages 3-5

Thursdays, January 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th

Join Ms Sandie for a weekly storytime for the preschool crowd (ages 3-5)! Younger siblings are welcome! Each week we’ll be reading 2-3 stories and completing a related activity. Drop in.

As always, our storytimes focus on talking, singing, reading, writing, and playing- important principles for YOUR child’s language development and reading readiness!

Storytime on the Go

January 1st-31st

Create a storytime experience at home with Storytime On The Go packets. Each packet will include books and an age-appropriate literacy activity. The early literacy activities will support one or more of the five early literacy practices: talking, singing, reading, writing, and playing.

Storytime On The Go packets are available for toddlers and preschoolers- just choose the packet that’s right for your child. Stop by the Children’s Room to pick yours up!

News and Notes from... Blanding Library

By Leslie Patterson

Whaling Talk on Jan. 18th

Have you ever wondered what a whaling voyage out of New Bedford was like? You can find out at the Blanding Library on Sat. Jan. 18 at 2 pm. This program has been rescheduled after being postponed in November (snow date will be Sat. Jan. 25). This talk by Capt. Michael Taylor and Nancy Gentile, docents at the New Bedford Whaling Museum, is jointly sponsored by the Blanding Library and the Carpenter Museum and is a free event is open to all.

History Group Resumes

The history discussion group led by Hank Coleman will resume meeting on Wed. mornings at 11 am at the library, starting on Jan. 8. This winter the topic will be ancient Greece. Hank says, “I will switch gears, moving back in time to the study of early Greek civilization. Discussion will focus on the birth of democracy, elements of a republic, and Greek mythology and philosophy.” He recommends two introductory books: “Introducing the Ancient Greeks” by Edith Hall, and “Presocratics” by James Warren. These discussion sessions are open to all with an interest in history. For further information, contact hjcoleman@comcast.net.

Story Hours & Legos

• Ongoing children’s programs at the Blanding include two story hour sessions weekly. One is for baby and toddlers and their caregivers on Tuesday mornings from 10:30 to 11. Story and Craft Hours for preschoolers ages 3 and up meets on Thursdays from 10:30 to 11:30. Siblings are welcome at both sessions. Drop-ins welcome. No registration necessary.

• Legos at the Library will resume on Sat. Jan. 11, from 11 to 2. Stop by the library and make something creative!

Thanks to everyone who contributed various items to the holiday gift donation boxes (and tree) at the library this holiday season. The Blanding is a drop-off site all year long for items donated to the Rehoboth Food Pantry and the Rehoboth Animal Shelter.

If you’re looking for something to do over this winter, remember than the Blanding has a wide selection of discount passes to museums and other attractions in our area. You can find out more on the library’s website, along with information on Blanding Events on https://rehobothantiquarian.org/ Look for more on both the Blanding Library and the Friends of the Blanding Library on Facebook too.

The Blanding Public Library, 124 Bay State Rd. Rehoboth, is open Monday through Thursday from 10 to 8, and on Fridays and Saturdays from 10 to 4. Closed Sundays and holidays. The library will be closed for Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Mon. Jan. 20. Phone: 508-252-4236.

SCOUTING AROUND

Rehoboth Girl Scout Troop 338 Eagle Scout Completes Shad Factory Pond Fish Ladder Migration Restoration Project

Justin Fiore, a 17-year-old Life Scout with Troop 13 Rehoboth, has completed his Shad Factory Pond Fish Ladder Migration Restoration Eagle Service Project. Under the guidance and support of Robert Materne from the Rehoboth Conservation Commission, Justin’s project was aimed to help the migration of the Shad Factory Pond fish population come this spring. The Shad Factory Pond dam lower area was brimming with the overgrowth of invasive aquatic vegetation, which hindered the migration of River Herring, American Eel, and Sea Lamprey, negatively impacting the fish population. The purpose of this Eagle Service Project was to enter the water and remove the overgrowth of aquatic vegetation and to create an additional waterway entry for fish to migrate up the fish ladder. Justin, along with fellow scouts and parents, were able to dredge large amounts of aquatic vegetation, remove layered sediment, and increase the flow of water from the Shad Factory Pond dam. The end result of this conservation project provides easy entry up the fish ladder, creating a greater chance to increase the fish population during migration, which will begin spring of 2025.

Justin would like to thank his fellow scouts and parents of Troop 13, Mr. Materne of the Rehoboth Conservation Commission, Rehoboth Highway Department, for removing the large quantity of dredged vegetation, and the Rehoboth Fire Department for securing a contact for the in-kind drone pictures of before and after the project.

Justin started his scouting career with Pack 1 Rehoboth and will soon ascend to the Rank of Eagle Scout. He is a senior at Attleboro High School and is looking forward to selecting a college to attend after graduation. Justin will be the second in his family to make the rank of Eagle Scout with Troop 13 Rehoboth.

Photo: Justin Fiore (L) Robert Materne of Rehoboth Conservation Commission (R)

Rehoboth Girl Scout Troop 338 enjoyed a lively game during their latest meeting, fostering camaraderie and joy in the girls. As they laughed and worked together, it was clear that the bonds being formed in this simple game would carry far beyond their meetings.

Chartley Country Store graciously hosted Rehoboth Girl Scout Troop 338 for a pizza making class. It was a wonderful experience for the girls!

Rehoboth Girl Scout Troop #507

Rehoboth Girl Scout Senior Troop 494

Rehoboth Girl Scout Troop #507 enjoyed watching the performance of SpongeBob Musical at Bristol-Plymouth Regional Technical High School.

Rehoboth Girl Scout Senior Troop #494 celebrated the holidays together with a lesson in custom cookie design from Katie’s Kookies in Seekonk.

Rehoboth Girl Scout Troop #507 proudly joined Wreaths Across America, which is a nonprofit organization that honors veterans by placing wreaths on their graves.

Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts Kicks Off Annual Cookie Program

The holiday spirit is in the air, and there’s even more to celebrateGirl Scout Cookie Season is officially here! Today marks the start of an exciting time for Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts (GSEMA) as they team up with their troops to engage the community and power the world’s largest entrepreneurial program for girls. Perhaps the most palatable fundraiser in modern history - pun intended, every purchase of delicious goodness helps to satisfy a timeless craving while supporting Girl Scout troop activities. Favorites include Thin Mints, Caramel deLites, Peanut Butter Patties, Adventurefuls, Peanut Butter Sandwich, Lemonades, Trefoils, Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie (gluten-free and peanut-free) and the soon-to-be-retired Toast-Yay!.

Keep A Song In Your Heart

“I am especially excited to witness the entrepreneurial spirit our youth develop and showcase as they connect with our local community,” said Monica Roberts, CEO of Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts. “While the Girl Scout Cookie Program is just one part of what we do, it stands as a powerful symbol of our missionoffering a glimpse into the incredible potential of the next generation of leaders.”

The Girl Scout Cookie program teaches youth a variety of skills beyond selling cookies. Throughout this experience, Girl Scouts obtain entrepreneurial, leadership, time management, customer service, financial literacy skills and more. To further develop these skills, the Girl Scout Cookie program allows youth to earn a variety of badges and awards including Cookie Business badges, Financial Literacy badges, Cookie Entrepreneur Family pins and Entrepreneur badges.

In addition, GSEMA is partnering with M&T Bank to develop a financial empowerment program for girls. Through this program, Girl Scouts can earn a financial empowerment patch, an essential life skill that teaches about money management and financial responsibility.

Girl Scout Cookies cost $6 per package. To support the Girl Scout Cookie program this season you can participate in the following ways:

• If you know a registered Girl Scout, ask how you can purchase Girl Scout Cookies from them to meet their cookie goals.

• If you don’t know a Girl Scout, visit gsema.org/cookies to find a cookie booth (pop-up shop) near you to purchase cookies from a local Girl Scout troop, or to connect with a local troop’s online cookie shop to purchase cookies for a donation or shipment.

• Through the Cookies for a Cause program, customers can make a purchase in-person or online and designate their purchase to benefit first responders and healthcare professionals, the military and veterans’ services organizations, local food pantries, and more.

• You can text COOKIES to 59618 to stay informed about how to purchase Girl Scout Cookies and other exciting Girl Scout news. Learn more about the Terms and Conditions and the SMS Privacy Policy.

Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts’ annual cookie sales program will run through March 7, 2025.

For more information on Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts, please visit www.gsema.org, or follow their social media channels, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn, for the latest updates on the organization.

About Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts

Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts (GSEMA) proudly serves 19,000 youth and 12,000 dedicated adult members across 178 communities, inspiring youth to develop courage, confidence, and character to make the world a better place. As the largest girl-serving organization in Massachusetts and the tenth-largest Girl Scout council in the United States, GSEMA plays a pivotal role in shaping future leaders. Girl Scouts is the premier leadership development organization for youth. To volunteer, reconnect, donate, join, or learn more, visit gsema.org.

Seekonk Scouts

December Activities

The Seekonk Troop 1 Scouts conducted their first cold-weather camping trip of the season. They spent two nights in a tent at Camp Champlin in Cranston, Rhode Island. Troop 1 scouts set up tents, cooked meals, and participated in many outdoor activities. They also worked on merit badge and rank advancement requirements. During the two-night trip, the scouts gained confidence and experience in coldweather tent camping.

Troop 1 and Troop 9 scouts held their annual Christmas party celebration at Level 99 in Providence, Rhode Island. The scouts enjoyed a night out with video and arcade games, axe throwing, and an escape room.

During the weekly troop meetings, scouts continued working on the Communication merit badge and rank requirements and outdoor skills such as knot tying and pitching a tent. They made preparations for their two-night cold-weather tent camping trip.

For more information about Seekonk Scouts, contact troop1seekonkma@gmail.com for boys or Troop9SeekonkMA@gmail.com for girls. Scouts are open to all boys and girls between the ages of 11 - 17.

Troop 1 and Troop 9 scouts at Level 99

Troop 1 and Troop 9 scouts at Level 99

Divorce Basics

Written by Lars Lambrecht, CFP, CLU, BFA, AMPA, CDFA, CLTC, CSLP, owner of Island Time Financial Ser-vices, Inc.

The article covers some divorce basics. Please note I am not an attorney and strongly advise all clients to have legal counsel. If your divorce is amiable, mediation is typically the least expensive route. One downside is that a me-diator’s role is unbiased, which means they are not acting or focused on what is in your personal best interest. Mediators often will not provide legal advice or specific direction. Because of this, it is gener-ally 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 settle-ment agreement.

Asset/Debt Division. You will need to decide how you will split your assets and debts. 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 Rela-tions 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. One spouse is often ordered to make child support and/or alimony support pay-ments to the other. 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. Recent legislation requires a Cavanagh calculation looking at both child support and alimony.

Parenting Plan. If you have minor children, a parenting plan will be a major part of your divorce agreement. Parent coaches can assist. A good parenting plan includes which parent has primary physi-cal custody, parent time with children, holidays, decisions on summer camps, how large expenses are split and much more.

Other areas. There are several miscellaneous areas also addressed in most divorces such as health insurance and how much life insurance each spouse must maintain. One critical area is who will re-ceive 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 de-cisions 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 ex-pertise is to help you make financial decisions, including the pros and cons of each option and tax im-plications. 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 have one. Lars Lambrecht, Rehoboth resident and Certified Financial Planner, is available to answer questions or meet for a consultation. 617-947-6428

Lars Lambrecht

SCHOOL NEWS

Palmer River Students and Staff Celebrate the Holidays with Fun, Giving, and Festivities

As 2023 came to a close, the students and staff at Palmer River School were busy celebrating the season with a variety of events, fostering a spirit of community, creativity, and compassion. With the holiday season in full swing, everyone at Palmer River embraced the festive cheer, from spirited activities to heartwarming charitable efforts.

Over the past several weeks, the school hosted a lively Spirit Week, where students participated in themed days full of fun and excitement. The week provided an opportunity for students and staff alike to show their school pride and enjoy a bit of friendly competition, all while spreading joy and excitement before the winter break.

One of the highlights of the season was the Holidays Around the World Craft Fair, where students showcased their creativity by crafting unique treasures that were put up for sale. The fair was open to families, providing an opportunity to purchase one-of-a-kind handmade items while supporting a wonderful cause. All proceeds from the event went to benefit a local animal shelter, ensuring that the spirit of giving reached beyond the school walls.

Music played an important role in the month’s festivities as well. Mrs. Grant, Palmer River’s beloved music teacher, organized a Holiday Bucket Drumming Concert at the Home Depot in Seekonk. The concert was a huge success, with students showcasing their rhythm and drumming skills in front of a delighted crowd. The performance was a true celebration of the power of music and the joy of bringing people together during the holiday season.

For the younger students, the holiday spirit was brought to life in a variety of ways. Our second graders had an unforgettable Polar Express Day, where they enjoyed the magic of the beloved holiday story while sipping on warm cups of hot chocolate. It was a day filled with excitement, imagination, and the timeless joy of a holiday classic.

Meanwhile, the kindergarten and preschool students were treated to a delightful Puppet Show, where they enjoyed an interactive and entertaining performance. The show brought smiles and laughter to the little ones, offering a perfect end to their holiday season activities.

As the school year wound down and we looked toward 2024, Palmer River’s students and staff were filled with gratitude for a season of togetherness and celebration. We would like to extend our warmest wishes for a Happy and Healthy New Year to all our families, friends, and community members.

From all of us at Palmer River, may the new year bring joy, peace, and success to everyone. We look forward to continuing the year with even more exciting adventures, opportunities, and learning.

Bishop Feehan Announces First Quarter Honor Roll 2024-2025

From Rehoboth:

First Honors: Emma Andrade 9, Emma Rapp 9, Sophia Andrade 10, Mackayla Creighton 10, Grace Callaghan 11, Jessica Lyle 12, Abigail Salwierz 12

Second Honors: Gillian Creighton 9, Bailey D’Alessio 9, Taylor Pierce 9, Mayukha Reddy 9, Ryan Avila 10, Madison Coyne 10, Noelle Salwierz 10, Andrew Sanford 10, Kaden Baltazar 11, Mia Mourao 11, Andrew Placido 11, Landyn Andrade 12, Sophia Castro 12, Joseph DiGirolamo III 12, Anthony Nassif 12, Mylee Ramer 12, Isabella Silva 12

Third Honors: Allen Shapiro 9, Zachary Sidok 9, James Mello 10, Luke Moitoso 10, Mackinley Garcia 11, Antonio Morabito 11, Gabrielle Silva 11, Benjamin Cote 12, Larsen Cryan 12

From Seekonk:

First Honors: Oliver Casasola 9, Riyan Jones 9, Emily Azzouz 10, Guillianna Leitao 10, Lorna Nassef 10, Elena Borden 12, Lucas Custodio 12, Jack Desmarais 12

Second Honors: Jordan Barnett 9, Leah Soares 9, Emily Rebelo 10, Sofiana Azzouz 11, Matthew Roslonek 11, Samuel Shaghalian 11

Third Honors: Camden Gareau 9, Dylan Audette 10, Dana Kiriaki 10

Beckwith Middle School Honors and High

Honors for Trimester I

High Honors Trimester 1

Grade 8: Assi, Gabrielle; Auricchio, Nathan; Bairos, Addison; Bettencourt, Isabelle; Carpenter, Nayalie; Castro, Carli; Daniels, Alyssa; DuVally, Skyla; Escobar, Vanessa; Ferreira, Tenley; Gomes, Haley; Gore, Felix; Gouveia, Alicia; Hyder, Leah; Lewandoski, Lyla; Lin, Eric; Lyons, Violet; Medeiros, Samantha; Menezes, Adriana; Oldmixon, Abbie; Ruhle, Connor

Grade7: Amaral, Khloe; Arrigo, Clara; Beauregard, Noah; Cairone, Crescenzo; Cameron, Jocelyn; Comins, James; Coyne, Hallie; Dagnese, Deven; D’Aiello, Patrick; Daza-Portillo, Manuel; Dietrich, Kellen; DiPalma, Alaina; Frissell, Macy; Guthrie, Hayleigh; Hess, Leland; Holowka, Zoya; Johnson, Mackenna; Kinniburgh, Lyla Mae; Kreizinger, Audrey; Lewis, Kassin; McWain, Amelia; Medeiros, Dane; Mendoza, Jason; Moniz, Chase; Neth, Neayeika; Nguyenle, Jordan; Owen, Lila; Pierce, Thomas; Pimento, Julia; Polychronis, Abagail; Regan, Natalia; Robbio, Zachary; Sampson, Ella; Soares, Morgan; Steinkamp, Jordan; Tavares, Veda; Trexler, Amelia; Turner, Amaya

Grade 6: Aga, Mudassir; Auricchio, Ethan; Bacon, Alexander; Benevides, Ava; Bentley, Madeleine; Botelho, Ethan; Brady, Aubrey; Brown, Audrey; Carroll, Nora; Chianese, Anthony; Cordeiro, Benjamin; Cunha, Matthew; Feliciano, Xavier; Ferreira, Avery; Fontaine, Camden; Greene, Milla; Guite, Lucas; Jeffrey, Liam; Kazanjian, Megan; Kent, David; Landry, Ava; Levesque, Stella; Levinson, Connor; Magee, Lila; Martins, Michael; Morrison, Michaela; Mourao, Madilyn; Pento, Brooke; Petersen, Christian; Peterson, Audrey; Pires, Connor; Read, Caizzi; Ruhle, Owen; Salcone, Luca; Santiago, Eleanor; Silva, Calvin; Soares, Julian; Thibeault, Nicholas; Wood, Richard

Grade 5: Antonio, Albert; Assi, Alexis; Assi, George; Avila, Callie; Beagan, Sean; Beausoleil, Ruby; Bernardo, Emma; Bernardo, Lucas; Bodge, Max; Boulay, Hannah; Boylan, Owen; Bradshaw, Nathan; Braga, Adrian; Cabral, Rachel; Carey, Dean; Clement, Chloe; Costa, Charlotte; Crowshaw, Eliot; Dagnese, Dax; D’Ambrosio, Decker; Darling, Lucas; DaRosa, Amelia; DiPalma, Isla; Dupuis, Abigail; Hathaway, Colton; Hebert, Juliana; Hess, Elliot; Jodoin-Blais, Hadley; Johnson, Emily; Kaszyk, Austin; Lay, Owen; Leffort, Olivia; Lewis, Mila; Lopes, Kenzie; Luedke, Logan; MacKenzie, Ophelia; Mello-Sattler, Alina; Middleton, Blake; Middleton, Courtney; Nunes, Lila; Perry, Ella; Perry, Layla; Pimento, Olivia; Prachanronarong-Ellick, Alexandra; Rabelo, Lucas; Raphino, Jaliyah; Rosa, Jaxson; Santry, Clinton; Scanlon, Ainsley; Sherman, Avery;Silva, Eliana;Tavares, Clive;Taylor, Zackary;Thompson, Gabriella;Titcomb, Hailey;Trexler, Lydia;Verma, Anika; Warren, Emily; White, Olivia; Zapata, Jason Honor Trimester 1

Grade 8: Andrade, Markos; Angel-Hayes, Elsie; Arcisz, Jordan; Bacon, Zackary; Bentley, Stephen; Blenkush, Abigail; Bonilla, Hayden; Boulay, Hailey; Boulay, James; Cabral, Caitlyn; Cartwright, Justin; Cavanaugh, Adam; Chartier, Benjamin; Clark, Desmond; Courtemanche, Hannah; Crosby, Madison; DaPonte, Shane; Diamond, Louis; DiPippo, Aaron; Hasenfratz, Cassidy; Henriques,

Brooke; Iafrate, Cara; Jean-Louis, Gyor; Jodat, Logan; Kazanjian, Lanie; Kelley, Liam; Kotch, Quinn; Kotch, Reece; LaBelle, Serenity; Lay, Keegan; Levesque, Leah; Mandeville, Andrew; Martel, Brooke; Mayer, Nathan; Megan, Mia; Mendes, Addison; Miller, Nicholas; Nystrom, Cole; Owen, Emma; Pattie, Mason; Perry, Meya; Polson, Chase; Quinones, Avery; Raphino, Jada; Sanford, Robert; Sawant, Caleb; Sidok, Jenna; Sousa, Alexandra; Swicker, Violet; Taylor, Avery; Warren, Alexander; White, Ryan; Whittle, James Grade 7: Amaral, Charlotte; Battistoni-Marks, Charles; Benoit, Alexander; Bettencourt, Jason; Bourgoin, Benjamin; Caban, Dodge; Cameron, Julia; Carey, Damin; Correia, Alicia; DeMoura, Luke; Duffy, Andria; DuVally, Kaylee; Earle, Molly; Franco, Juliana; Gill, Wes; Gouveia, Mason; Grant, Korey; Holt, Meriwether; Jarvis, Maximus; Johnson, Madison; Leonard, Jameson; Lingard, Jade; Lynch, Conor; McCollum, Kyra; Oldmixon, Andrew; Oliveira, Cecilia; Oliver, Emma; Powers, Victoria; Prevost, Ellie; Quin, Alexander; Quinn, Connor; Ramos, Mitchell; Rhines, Kinley; Ricci, Eve; Robson, Maverick; Santos, Maeve; Saumweber, Talan; Scamacca, Finn; Sellers, Keegan; Souza, Mia; Sulyma, John; Walczak, Raegan; Ware, Kearsten; Wojtowicz, Xavier; Xavier, Jagger; Young, Aubrey

Grade 6: Andrade, Niko; Angelini, Mason; Bairos, Aubree; Benson, Raina; Bergeron, Julie; Bernardo, Alyssa; Boucher, Brycen; Carpenter, Nias; Carrasquillo, Trenton; Cordeiro, Nathan; DaPonte, Hope; Enes, Liam; Estes, Zayden; Faria, Nathan; Farias, Adriana; Fischman, Noah; Furtado, Bruce; Garcia, Levi; Hillier, Nathan; Lewandoski, Olivia; Lopes, Dominic; Lopes, Farrah; Malaguti, Paisley; Medeiros, Aubrey; Ollivierre, Selene; O’Neill, Connor; Powers, Reyah; Ramos, Maddix; Read, Kaelyn; Resendes, Hailey; Rodrigues, Blake; Roth, Andrew; Sarrazin, John; Sienko, Hunter; Teodoro, Stella; Thomas, Christina; Vickey, Rylie; Warren, Mackenzie; Webster, Parker

Grade 5: Alves, John; Batchelder, Chloe; Binetti, Jolie; Bonilla, Ryder; Boudreau, Luke; Boyle, Leah; Cadorette, Zachary; Campbell, Quinn; Chaput, Evan; Cloutier, Harper; Cruz, Mireya; Cunha, Mariana; DeGroot, Camdyn; Deus, Avaleigh; DoCouto, Dylan; DuVally, Ciana; Farrell, Benjamin; Fogel, Drew; Fuoco, Alexis; Grant, Lucy; Greene, Graham; Guthrie, Ryleigh; Harris, Charlotte; Hussey, Skyler; McVicker, Bria; Medeiros, Amelia; Miranda, Evan; Mirra, Allison; Owen, William; Owens, Phoebe; Perry, Gianna; Rodrigues, Brayden; Seal, Jackson; Silva, Briella; Sousa, William; Terraciano, Brody; Vieira, Skyla; Whitten, Landon; Wright, Emmett

Call Now for Your Interior Projects!

2nd Annual Southeast New England Agriculture Conference and Trade Show Hosted

On February 2, 2025

SNEACTS brings together professionals and community members from across the local food system to learn about important innovations and ideas for local food and farming production

Dighton, MA - The Southeastern Massachusetts Agricultural Partnership (SEMAP), in partnership with eight local food and agricultural service providers, is pleased to announce the 2nd Annual Southeast New England Agriculture Conference and Trade Show (SNEACTS) and Kids Conference, to be held on Sunday February 2, 2025, at Bristol County Agricultural High School in Dighton.

TABELEY’S ROOFING

Reputation is on the Top of Thousands of Homes

This conference will bring together farmers, fishers, local food producers, homesteaders, advocates, community members and folks from across the local food community for a day of insightful and engaging conversations around the future of our agricultural system. Workshops range from hands-on production and training, business skills such as workforce development and risk mitigation, and broader issues facing small farms, such as land access and climate change. A day at the conference doesn’t have to mean a boring day at home for your child, with the full day kids conference! Kids can join 4-H staff for a full day of fun and learning.

SNEACTS is a collaboration that brings together expertise from across the food and agricultural landscape to examine its pressing issues and needs through a broader lens. Building on the amazing success of last year, this year’s conference will feature something for everyone interested in our region’s local food scene. From livestock to soil health, from aquaculture to flowers, and everything in between, attendees will find the topics and experts to make them better growers, businesspeople or more aware of the issues facing our local food and agricultural systems.

SEMAP is excited to partner with Bristol County Agricultural High School, Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation, Northeast Organic Farming Association of Rhode Island, Plymouth County Extension 4-H, Buy Fresh Buy Local Cape Cod, The Pocasset Pokanoket Land Trust, Oasis on Ballou, and Cluck & Trowel Farm.

Tickets are on sale now! Tickets are offered on a sliding scale and all tickets include a light breakfast and Local Lunch! You can purchase tickets by visiting sneacts.org and click the “Buy Tickets Now” button.

For questions, please contact Susan Murrary @ smurray@ semaponline.org

$26,000 Environmental Leadership Scholarships

The Henry David Thoreau Foundation awards collegiate scholarships of up to $26K to eight to ten students graduating from public or private high schools in Massachusetts. As Henry David Thoreau Scholars, these select high school seniors may enroll in any college and university in the world while they major or minor in an environmentally related field.

The Henry David Thoreau Scholarships are up to $26,000 four-year scholarships awarded to eight students graduating from public or private high schools in Massachusetts. High school seniors awarded the Henry David Thoreau Scholarships can enroll in any college and university in the world while they major or minor in an environmentally related field. Henry David Thoreau Scholars are encouraged to enroll in internships or study abroad to broaden their awareness and understanding of environmental issues.

Henry David Thoreau

Henry David Thoreau Scholars have studied a wide variety of environmentally related areas, including biology, epidemiology, oceanography, international affairs, and environmental law, and upon completing their undergraduate degrees, they became members of the Henry David Thoreau Society.

The Henry David Thoreau Foundation further assists its scholarship winners by identifying environmentally related internships, offering internship stipends, and providing networking opportunities. Upon graduation from college, Henry David Thoreau Scholars are inducted into the Henry David Thoreau Society. A sign of success of the Henry David Thoreau Foundation’s mission to foster environmental leadership is the support past scholarship winners provide to present scholarship winners.

To learn more about the Henry David Thoreau Foundation and the Henry David Thoreau Scholarships, please visit thoreauscholar. org. Students have until February 1, 2025, to apply.

Trinity Rep Opens Submissions for High School Playwriting Competition

Write Here! Write Now! accepting entries through March 3, 2025

Providence: Trinity Repertory Company announces the 14th annual Write Here! Write Now! student playwriting competition. New England students in grades 9-12 may submit up to two original ten-minute plays via the application form at trinityrep.com/whwn. The submission deadline is March 3, 2025, at 11:59 pm. Trinity Rep will announce the four winners on April 1, 2025.

“We are excited to open Write Here! Write Now! for the 14th year,” Associate Director of Education Daniel Begin said. “This program offers high school students across New England the opportunity to share their work with local industry professionals and

community members while exploring the world of playwriting.”

On April 21, 2025, at 7:00 pm, Trinity Rep will hold staged readings of the plays, performed by community members for the winners’ families and friends. Each winner will receive a scholarship towards any Trinity Rep Young Actors Studio after-school class, and 20 free tickets to a 2025-26 Season Project Discovery student matinee for their school.

“These young playwrights’ dedication and creativity continue to excite and inspire us each year,” adds Education Programs Coordinator Emma Becker. “We cannot wait to see what this year’s competition has in store.”

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

Write Here! Write Now! encourages high school students to develop communication, critical thinking, and storytelling skills through playwriting. By providing lesson plans and guidance, Trinity Rep encourages English, creative writing, and theater teachers to incorporate playwriting into their curriculum. Educators can review the study guide at trinityrep. com/whwn.

Whether students complete their plays independently or as part of a

class, they may submit up to two 10-minute plays to the competition. Each year, Trinity Rep’s adjudicators select four winning plays, with at least one winner from a Providence, RI school.

RECOGNITION

Trinity Rep’s education and artistic staff evaluate each script, with student playwrights’ names remaining anonymous. Every play that is submitted will receive feedback to aid in the development of the student’s creative voice. Once the final four plays are chosen, the playwrights will receive advanced feedback through an in-depth dramaturgical review of their scripts. The process culminates in staged readings of the winning plays for family and friends. The winners receive a scholarship towards any Trinity Rep Young Actors Studio after school class, and 20 free tickets to a 2025-26 Season Project Discovery student matinee for their school.

Dighton-Rehoboth Marching Band Participates in Christmas Parades

Saturday December 7, 2024 the Dighton-Rehoboth Marching Band walked in the Fall River Children’s Christmas Parade. On Sunday, joined by Alumni, the Dighton-Rehoboth Marching Band walked in the Taunton Christmas Parade welcoming the Christmas Season to Taunton, the Christmas City! WeAreDR!

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Screenings for 2025-2026

Dighton Elementary and Palmer River Elementary Schools are now taking appointments for PreK screenings for the 2025-2026 school year. Residents of Dighton and Rehoboth with children who are three or four years old and interested in a screening may call Linda DeLeo at Palmer River Elementary School or Allison Hanson at Dighton Elementary School between 9:30 AM and 2:30 PM.

Screening Process

This screening process is for new applicants who live in Dighton or Rehoboth and whose child will be at least 3 years of age by August 31, 2025. Screenings are conducted for two main purposes:

1. Lottery Eligibility for the Integrated PreK Program: Children who complete the screening process will be eligible for a lottery to fill available spots in the Integrated PreK Program at their respective schools. This program provides a play-centered, interactive, curriculum-rich experience, integrating typically developing children as role models for children in need of special education services.

2. Special Education Identification: The screenings also help identify students who may benefit from further evaluations and/ or special education services.

Scheduling and Appointment Details

Please call Linda DeLeo (PRES) @ 508-252-5100 x3104 or Allison Hanson (DES) @ 508-669-4245 x1107 to arrange an appointment. We request that all appointments be scheduled by February 14, 2025. Screenings will be held during the week of February 28, 2025, and take approximately 45 minutes.

Please bring the following to your appointment:

• Your Child

• Parent/Guardian Driver’s License

• Proof of residency (recent utility bill, or tax statement, mortgage or lease statement, etc.)

Important: A screening cannot be completed without a secured appointment time.

We look forward to meeting you and your child as part of this process. If you have any questions, please reach out to:

Palmer River Elementary School, Kristine Kefor, Principal, Cheryl Leandro, Assistant Principal, Phone: 508-252-5100

Dighton Elementary School, Katelyn Lima, Principal, Christina McGourty, Assistant Principal, Phone: 508-669-4245

"Dave Says" by Dave

Ramsey

Hitting Your Goals Means Planning Your Goals

Dear Dave,

Dave Ramsey

Do you have any advice for sticking with your goals and New Year’s resolutions? I always have great things in mind to shoot for in December, but then they always seem to fall by the wayside before spring.

— Rae

Dear Rae,

Believe it or not, setting goals and making them happen is easier than most people think. You just need to keep a few guidelines in mind at the beginning of the process.

The first guideline is to be specific. What do you want to achieve? And be super specific when you answer that question. Things like “eat healthier” or “read more” are too vague. Instead, try some-thing like “cut eating out to twice a week” or “read for at least 30 minutes every night before bed.” Also, look out for any roadblocks that could keep you from reaching your goal, and make a plan to knock them out of the way.

Number two, make your goals measurable. A goal like “lose weight” has no target attached to it. But “lose 20 pounds” has a clear finish line. You can also break your goal setting into bite-size chunks. Give yourself daily, weekly and monthly steps to take. Focus on those, and when you ac-complish one, tackle the next.

Three, set a time limit. You need a finish line, so take your goal, create a plan and break it all the way down into daily activities. Then, give yourself a deadline. You might say, “I want to lose 25 pounds by December 31, 2025.” To lose those 25 pounds by your deadline, figure out things like how many times you need to work out each week and how many calories to eat in a day.

Number four, make sure the goals are yours. Trying to achieve someone else’s goals for your life never works. Why? Because working hard is hard work. You won’t have the drive to stick with it if it’s something you aren’t not passionate about.

Finally, set your goals down in writing. Something special happens when you write down specific goals. Seeing them plainly in front of you hammers it home in a way nothing else will. There’s a reason God said, “Write the vision, and make it plain,” in Habakkuk 2:2 (KJV). Get those goals down on paper, along with all the steps it’ll take to make them happen.

And hey, don’t beat yourself up if you get a little off track, Rae. Keep your chin up and your eyes on the prize. As long as you stay focused on the end goal and keep taking steps—even small ones in the right direction—you’ll eventually turn those goals into reality!

— Dave

* Dave Ramsey is an eight-time national bestselling author, personal finance expert and host of The Ramsey Show. He has appeared on Good Morning America, CBS This Morning, Today, Fox News, CNN, Fox Business and many more. Since 1992, Dave has helped people take control of their money, build wealth and enhance their lives. He also serves as CEO for Ramsey Solutions.

Seekonk Human Services

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

Closed Monday, January 20, 2025

Holiday Season Thank you!

Seekonk Human Services would like to take the opportunity to thank all those who helped out during the holiday season. We would like to thank those who donated food, gifts and items needed for the holiday season. Without your help we couldn’t have made this a successful holiday season!

Wheel of Fortune Game Show

Wed, January 8, 2025 at 1:00pm

Kevin brings the excitement of “LIVE” game shows right to your doorstep! “Wheel of Fortune”, the American television game show created by Merv Griffin is coming to Human Services. People play as teams, and every member of the winning team receives a prize! It will be fun! Preregistration is required.

Welcome Presentation from Town Nurse Lisa

Monday January 13, 2025 at 2:00pm

Seekonk has a new Public Health Nurse, Lisa Valente, RN, CDOE. The Public Health Nurse functions under the direction of the Board of Health to provide community health care services including disease prevention, health promotion and maintenance, health education, and emergency preparedness. A longtime resident of Seekonk, Lisa has worked in acute care rehabilitation and nurse care management. She is also a Certified Diabetes Outpatient Educator. Office hours are tentatively on Mondays from 10 AM to 1 PM or by appointment. Preregistration is required.

“Old Time Radio’s Greatest Moments”

Wed, January 15, 2025 at 1:00pm

Richard King, Radio Historian, will present “Old Time Radio’s Greatest Moments” at Human Services. It is a multimedia show that features American radio in the 1930’s to the 1950’s. You will hear and see historical events and the top radio programs. Preregistration is required.

Elder Abuse Prevention Presentation

Wed, January 22, 2025 at 11:30am

Bristol County District Attorney, Tom Quinn, is committed to preventing and prosecuting elder abuse. Come to Human Services to hear this important prevention message on, January 22, 2025, at 11:30am. District Attorney Quinn’s office will speak about identity fraud, financial exploitation and scams, how to prevent them, and where to report them if they occur. We hope you will join us. Preregistration is required.

Healthy Aging Lunch & Learn

Wedn, January 29, 2025 at 11:30am

Join us to play “Food Safety Bingo” by Bristol Elder Services Registered Dietitian, Dawn DiMarco. A pot roast lunch will be served for those who attend. Preregistration is required.

Arts & Crafts

1st & 3rd Friday 9:30am - 11:30am

The fee for residents is $5 and non-residents is $10.

• January 3 & 17 - Personalize Your Mugs

• February 7 & 21 - Valentine’s Gnome & St. Patrick’s Gnome Contact the office for more information. Preregistration is required with payment. Projects are subject to change.

Podiatry Clinic

Wed, Jan 8, 2025 10:00am - 2:00pm

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. Call our office to make an appointment.

Blood

Pressure & Glucose Clinic

Wed, Jan 15, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am

Join us for our free monthly blood pressure and glucose screenings. Walk-ins welcome!

Let’s Learn Together!

Tues, January 28, 2025 at 2:30pm

Do you have questions about using your smartphone, or tablet? Bring them to the Tech Help Hour. The goal of this session is to help each other learn how to use technology better. There is no set agenda. This program is moderated by Seekonk Public Library staff. Bring your own tablet, phone or laptop. Please make sure your device is fully charged. Preregistration is required.

Women’s Lunch

Wedy, February 5, 2025 at 11:30am

Davenport’s Restaurant, 1925 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence, RI

This group meets the first 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 the office to sign up.

Valentine’s Day Party

Wed, February 12, 2025 at 11:30am

We will be having our annual Valentine’s Day party, Wednesday, February 12, 2025 at 11:30am. Carine Paul will be performing love songs for all to enjoy at our Valentine’s Day party. Lunch will be pasta and meatballs. The cost will be $7 for residents and $10 for nonresidents. Preregistration is required and opens January 15th.

A Funny Program About Funny Programs:

The Greatest Sitcoms of All Time

Wed, February 19, 2025 at 1:00pm

Award-winning author and pop culture historian Martin Gitlin hosts this fun and enlightening presentation based on his book, The Greatest Sitcoms of All Time. He is the only author to actually rank the best, including I Love Lucy, The Honeymooners, The Andy Griffith Show, Get Smart, All in the Family, The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Cheers, The Golden Girls Seinfeld, Everybody Loves Raymond and The Big Bang Theory. He will show funny snippets from those shows and others, challenge patrons with sitcom trivia (including identifying cool theme songs!). Discuss the criteria he used to rank 70 years of sitcoms and talk about how they have evolved over the decades in humor, presentation and content. This

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The Reporter January 2025 program is really entertaining so join in on the fun! Preregistration is required and opens January 15th.

Healthy Aging Lunch & Learn

Wed, February 26, 2025 at 11:30am

Join us for nutritional trivia by Bristol Elder Services Registered Dietitian, Dawn DiMarco. A chicken stir fry lunch will be served for those who attend. Preregistration is required and opens January 15th.

Tuesday Luncheon

Tuesdays at 12:00pm

Seekonk Human Services has partnered with The Hamilton Diner to offer weekly lunches! Lunches will cost $7 for residents and $8 for nonresidents. The menu will be available at the office and on Facebook.

Nutritional Meals to Go

Tues / Weds / Thurs

Bristol Elder Services provides nutritional meals for lunch on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays to go. Meals come completely cooked and prepackaged. Meals need to be ordered the day before by 9:30am. Suggested donation of $2.25 per meal which will be due at the time of pickup.

The January menu is available at our office and on our Facebook page.

Fuel Assistance

Income guidelines: Maximum income for one person is $49,196, for two people is $64,333, for three people is $79,470 and for four people is $94,608. Returning applicants must provide proof of income (pension, interest, dividends, 401K/IRA distribution). New applications must provide income, mortgage or rent bill, real estate taxes, homeowners insurance, utility bills (electric, gas and/or oil), social security card, government photo ID, and birth certificates for those under the age of 18.

Fuel assistance begins November 1st. For assistance, please call our office to schedule an appointment with our outreach worker. Applications are accepted until April 30, 2025.

Telephone Reassurance Program

Our office will make a telephone call to an individual’s home at approximately the same time each day Monday through Friday (during our operating business hours only). This program is designed to connect people in need with ongoing, caring human contact and conversation. If we do not receive an answer, we will call back shortly after. If we do not receive an answer the second

time, Public Safety will be called to check on the individual’s status. The Telephone Reassurance Program provides a peace of mind for the individual and their loved ones. This program is designed for senior citizens, disabled persons and shut-ins living in Seekonk who may be at risk of loneliness, social isolation, illness or injury. If you, or you know someone you know is interested in this program, please call Nicole at Human Services at 508-336-8772.

Medical Loan Closet

Our FREE Medical Loan Closet is available for Seekonk residents. Our inventory is dependent on donated items received, but may be limited based on need and space. For more information, please call 508-3368772 *30 Day Rental

Exercise Classes

Mondays

Movement & Meditation 10am

Strength & Cardio 1pm

Tuesdays

Drums Alive 9am

Wednesdays

Stability and Balance 8:45am

Drums Alive 9:30am

Thursdays

Mat Exercise 9am

Movement & Meditation 10am

Fridays

Dance Cardio 9:15am

Tai Chi 10:30am

*All activities are subject to pre-registration

Card Games

Play an favorite or learn something new!

• Canasta - Mondays at 11am. A card game of the Rummy family

• Hi-Low Jack (Pitch) - Tuesdays & Thursdays at 1pm. Win the game by having the highest card played in the trump suit

• Mahjong - Wednesdays at 1pm. Mahjong is a game of skill and chance that originated in China

• Cribbage - Thursdays at 11am. The first person to peg 121 points and get to the end of the board is the winner

• BINGO - Thursdays at 1pm. Regular games $1.00 for 6 games. Specials $2.00 per game. A game of chance played with cards having numbered squares corresponding to numbers drawn at random

Email List

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

Veteran’s Corner

Access To Military Bases Now Easier For Veterans

Veterans and eligible caregivers now have easier access to Department of Defense (DOD) installations. On Nov. 1, 2024, the updated process announced by VA and DOD streamlined both enrollment and access to installations

Eligible veterans who do not have a VA-issued Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)—as well as eligible caregivers—can now enroll for installation access at the visitor center using their REAL ID Act-compliant driver’s license or nondriver’s identification card. This means these individuals no longer need to present a VA-issued caregiver patronage letter, VAissued service-connected disability letter, or VA Health Eligibility Center Form H623A to enroll for installation access.

To enroll for reoccurring installation access, eligible Veterans and caregivers must establish identity, fitness, and purpose on their first visit to each DOD installation they wish to access at the visitor’s center. As part of enrollment, you must:

• Present an acceptable credential (VHIC or REAL ID) to establish identity;

• Undergo an on-the-spot criminal record and terrorism check to establish fitness; and

• Have your eligibility for on-installation benefits verified electronically to establish purpose. If your purpose is for health care, and the DOD installation doesn’t have a commissary, exchange or authorized MWR service, then proof of appointment will need to be provided.

When entering a DOD installation, Veteran and caregiver eligibility is now verified electronically. Following enrollment for reoccurring installation access, Veterans and eligible caregivers can enter the installation by presenting the same VHIC or REAL ID for which they enrolled.

Enrollment is typically valid for one to three years, or one year after the last visit to the given DOD installation. If a patron’s VHIC or REAL ID expires, they will need to reenroll with their new VHIC or REAL ID. Termination of a patron’s eligibility will automatically result in the termination of installation access enrollment.

James LaFlame

Seekonk Veterans Services Officer Office 508-336-2940

Email: jlaflame@seekonk-ma.gov

Parks & Recreation

by Erica Harris-Grimes

Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park located in Estes Park; Colorado is full of dramatic beauty. It is 415 square miles, if my math is right, that is 288,000 acres! There are over

300 miles of hiking trails, high rugged mountains and sparkling lakes, all mixed in with abundant wildlife. The first written record of a visit to what is now Rocky Mountain National Park was in 1843. There has been people using the lands for many years before that, however, this was the first piece written about it. In the 1930’s when so many were looking for work, President Franklin Roosevelt promised a New Deal where he created programs that put people to work. One program was called Civilian Conservation Corps. In this program young male recruits at six camps-built roads, trails and buildings. They also managed predators, put out wildfires and planted trees. Rocky Mountain National Park has never been served by train like Yellowstone, Glacier and Grand Canyon. It has always been accessible by automobiles. Due to that being the best way to access the park, road building was high on the priority list. Today the staff is knowledgeable in so many areas. It is made up of hard workers leading the way. They have education rangers, law enforcement rangers, carpenters, mechanics, biologists, administrators, engineers, resource specialists and volunteers all working together to manage Rocky Mountain National Park. If you would like more information on the park the websites listed below have so many resources including incredible pictures that make you feel as if you are right there. www.rockymountainnationalpark.com nps.gov/romo.index.htm

Cold Weather Safety for Older Adults

Older adults have a higher chance of being affected by cold weather. Changes that come with aging can make it harder for older adults to be aware of their body becoming too cold, which can turn into a dangerous health issue quickly.

Hazards of cold weather include falls on wintry surfaces; injury caused by freezing (frostbite); and hypothermia, a medical emergency that occurs when your body temperature gets too low. Being informed and taking certain actions can help lessen risks during the colder months. Article by National Institute of Aging.

Cold Weather Safety Tips

When you are outside, frostbite and hypothermia are possible so you need to protect yourself.

1. Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing.

2. Wear a hat. Try to stay dry and out of the wind.

3. Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from extreme cold.

4. Mittens, snug at the wrist, are better than gloves. Article by Weather.org

Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide poisoning is a silent, deadly killer claiming about 1,000 lives each year in the United States.

1. Install a carbon monoxide detector.

2. NEVER run a generator indoors.

3. Open a window slightly when using a kerosene heater and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

4. NEVER use a gas oven to heat your home.

5. If your heat goes out, you can keep warm indoors by closing off rooms you do not need, dressing in layers of lightweight clothing, and wearing a cap. Article by Weather.org

Center Info.

The center is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 8:30am - 4:30pm, Wednesday 8:30am - 5:30pm and Friday 8:30am - 12:00pm. Come and enjoy the activities and companionship at your center. Join our email list! Things are changing quickly these days and we want to be able to get the word out to you quickly. Please give us a call and give us your email address. We want to share fun activities, links to Zoom and virtual programs. * NOTE: *Seekonk Human Services is primarily an informational and referral agency. We try to help you directly or by introducing you to a network of federal, state, or local support services. Seekonk Human Services offers legal, financial, recreational, medical screenings, and other activities/services by volunteers or nominally paid practitioners. Participation in these services/activities is with the understanding that Seekonk Human Services, Town of Seekonk, or its employees do not assume any legal or other responsibility for advice of services rendered by such volunteers or nominal cost practitioners.

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

ACTIVITIES

Mondays

8:30-10 BREAKFAST

10:00 Walking Club

10:00 Bocce

10:00 Cornhole Toss

10:00 Barre Class $3.00

Noon Gert’s Café ~ Ltd seating ~ $5.00

1:00 Line Dancing (NEW) $3.00

Tuesdays

9:00 Dancer-cise $3.00

10:00-Noon Jewelry Making Class $7.00

10:00 S.E.A.T Chair Exercise $3.00

10:00 Sewing & Quilting

11:00 Functional Fitness $3.00

1:00 Hi-Lo Jack

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

Wednesdays

8:30 - 10:00 Breakfast

10:00 Walking Club

10:00 Fiber Arts (Knitting & Crochet get together. Jane Williams

10:00 Bocce

10:00 Cornhole Toss

Noon Lunch Ltd seating ~ $5.00

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

1:00-3:00 Dominoes

Thursday

9:00 Tai Chi $3.00

10:00 Drums Alive $3.00

11:00 Functional Fitness $3.00

1:00-3:00 Paper Crafting Class includes Card Making, Stamping, etc. $5.00

1:00-3:00 Watercolor Class $5.00

Friday

8:30 - 10:00 Breakfast

10:00 Walking Club

10:00 Bocce

10:00 Cornhole Toss

As always all pricing is a suggested donation. Please sign up for Lunch ahead of time. This helps Chef Chico plan the meals

Breakfast

Mon / Wed / Fri From 8:30-10

Lunch

Mon / Wed @ Noon. Come join us

Valentine’s Day Party

Wednesday February 12th @ Noon

Tickets $10.00

Piano Serenade

Fridays in January 10:30-11:00

Russell Raiche will be playing the piano for us

Rehoboth Council on Aging

Book Club

First Monday of Month at 10:00am Join Our Walking Club Mon-Wed-Friday 10:00AM

Please note new start time Join our Email List

Updates during the month COAmail@rehobothma.gov

Trivia!

Please note Trivia has been moved to Monday, January 13th at 12:45 Craft Supplies Needed

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

Your donations are greatly appreciated Meals on Wheels:

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

Rehoboth Public Health Nurse

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

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

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

• Wellness Clinic Wednesday 11:00-Noon

• Podiatry Clinic: Last Thursday of the month

• Blood Pressures & Glucose Screenings

Please contact Geri Hamel for more information on these services.

Rehoboth Senior Citizens Club News

Happy New Year, one and all!

The Rehoboth Senior Citizens Club had a very busy year that finished by donating funds back to several groups in Rehoboth, and to enjoy our Holiday luncheon at Davenports. The luncheon celebration is one of the club’s ways of saying “Thank You” to members’ for all their hard work in the making of a very successful year!

Our next meeting will be January 16, 2025, where we will be having a new year’s lunch with a pot luck dessert. Afterwards, there will be a “Regifting Auction”. So gather up any gift that you received, and wish to “regift” as an auction item. No need to wrap or bag, as everyone should be able to see the item.

We hope your holidays were happy, healthy, and safe. See you on January 16th! Arcade Building, noon.

Donna Howard, President RSCC

Jane Williams, Secretary, of RSCC presenting our $600 donation to Paula Fernandez of the Rehoboth Food Pantry.

Club members playing Christmas Trivia at The Club luncheon at Davenports

Several members enjoying cheese and crackers while scoring their trivia answers.

In RemembeRance

Eugene R. “Bud” Maymon

Eugene R. “Bud” Maymon, 70, of Seekonk, passed away on Monday, December 2, 2024 at his home. He was the husband of Lianne (Whitaker) Maymon.

Born in Pawtucket, he was the son of the late Harold C. and Madeleine B. (Hesford) Maymon. Bud was a tool maker for the former Texas Instruments-Sensata for many years before he retired in 2016. He was an avid fan of the New England Patriots, the Boston Red Sox, and all New England sports teams. Two of Bud’s favorite places were Florida and spending summer days by his

swimming pool. Above all else was his family. Being with his wife, children and grandchildren always made him very happy.

Besides his wife he leaves three children, Jamie L. Maymon, Carl J. “CJ” Danielson, Jr. and his wife Christine and Amy Leigh Danielson and her husband Robb, one stepdaughter, Tracy Lyon Madden, two brothers, David Maymon and his wife Terry and Thomas J. Maymon and his fiancé Joan, his mother- in- law, Anita Whitaker, eight grandchildren and several nieces, nephews and inlaws. He was preceded in death by his daughter Amy-Lynn Maymon.

His funeral service was held on Saturday, December 7, 2024 at 11:00 AM in the PERRY-McSTAY FUNERAL HOME, 2555 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence. Burial was in Rehoboth Village Cemetery. Calling hours Friday 4-7. In lieu of flowers donation can be made to Doorways, Inc. PO Box 295, Seekonk MA 02771, or The American Lung Association, 55 W. Wacker Drive, Suite 1150, Chicago, IL 60601.

Paul E. Gousie

Paul E. Gousie

Paul E. Gousie, 79, of Rehoboth, passed away peacefully on November 19, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Attleboro, Massachusetts, Paul was the son of the late Raoul and Marie (Tanguay) Gousie. He was the beloved husband of Pauline (Dion) Gousie for over 43 years.

Paul was a proud 1963 graduate of Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School. His strong work ethic began at an early age, picking vegetables at Fine Farms and valeting cars at Buster Crawford Chevrolet, a job he often spoke highly about. Paul worked as a meat manager for over 45 years at Almacs and Shaw’s supermarkets.

Paul was known for his strong moral character, faith, and commitment to his community. He was a devoted communicant of St. Stephen’s Church, Our Lady Queen of Martyrs, and St. John the Evangelist, and donated many hours helping at multiple church events.

Paul’s greatest love was family, especially spending time with his eight grandchildren. He often reminisced about growing up in Rehoboth where the “Gousie Clan” would gather in the backyard of his childhood home on Sundays for football, baseball, and wiffle ball games, followed by large family dinners, where oftentimes, people brought their own and shared.

Paul also enjoyed sports, especially basketball. He was a founding member of Rehoboth Youth Basketball, created in the mid-1970’s. He was an avid fan and season-ticket holder of the Providence College Friars, and played in the Rehoboth “Old Men’s” Monday Night Basketball pick-up league way into his 70s.

Throughout his years, Paul acquired knowledge of all building trades and “had a tool for every job.” He found joy in completing projects around his home, and in giving a helping hand to family, friends and those in need.

Beside his beloved wife, Paul is survived by his four children, who were his pride and joy, Lee Anne Todd and her husband Norman, Lori Rossi and her husband Mark, Kevin Gousie and his wife Michele, all of Rehoboth, and Matt Gousie and his wife Derrah of Attleboro. “Pépère’s” legacy lives on in his eight grandchildren: Diana, Lillian, Eveline, Madeline, Autumn, Kevin Jr, Riley, and Cecelia. He was the brother of Joseph Robert Gousie of Fort Lauderdale, FL and was predeceased by his twin sister, Paula Ranley.

Those wishing may remember Paul with a donation in his memory to Cecelia’s Adventures, 35 Christopher Dr., Attleboro, MA 02703.

Relatives and friends were invited to attend a visitation on November 24, 2024, at the Duffy-Poule Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 20 Peck Street, Attleboro, MA. A Mass of Christian Burial was be held on November 25, 2024, at St. John the Evangelist Church, 133 North Main Street, Attleboro, MA. Burial will take place at a later date in St. Stephen’s Cemetery, Attleboro.

As we remember Paul, we invite you to leave memories and upload photos to the memorial page at www.duffy-poule.com

Bud Maymon

Thomas L. Sladen, III

Seekonk - Thomas L. Sladen, III, 68, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, after a courageous battle with Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD). He was the beloved husband of Barbara (McGrane) Sladen for forty-three beautiful years. Born in Providence on February 8, 1956, Thomas was the eldest son of the late Thomas “Leo”, Jr. and Jane (Rowse) Sladen.

In addition to his devoted wife, he leaves behind his cherished children: Robert Sladen and his wife Daniella of Florida, and Elizabeth Dubuc and her husband Jeffrey of Attleboro. He was the proud grandfather of Noah and Penelope Sladen, as well as Benjamin and Emma Dubuc, with whom he treasured every moment. Thomas also leaves behind his brother and sidekick from the start, Paul Sladen and his wife, Catherine, of East Providence, and his brother Michael Sladen of Pawtucket, along with his brotherin-law Claus Baier of Pawtucket. He is survived by his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, James and Elizabeth Dube of Pawtucket, whom he cherished as his own brother and sister. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and countless friends who became like family, especially Tim and Debby Greenwood and Tom McCoy. Thomas was predeceased by his sister, Deborah Baier.

Thomas graduated from the University of Rhode Island with a degree in mechanical engineering. He worked for thirty-one years at the former Brown and Sharpe, later known as Hexagon Metrology, before retiring in November of 2020. After retirement, he collaborated with his son and daughter-in-law to help launch their company, Zulu Pods, channeling his lifelong love of building and fixing things into a new chapter of innovation.

Thomas had a deep love for fishing, making annual trips with his boys despite often returning empty-handed. He fulfilled a long-held dream of owning a boat, earning the nickname “Captain Tom,” and spent weekends on the water with friends and family. Gardening was another passion, and his famous tomatoes were eagerly awaited by family and friends each year.

His heart was forever tied to his family’s home in Dennisport, Cape Cod, where he grew up and later created treasured memories

with his wife, children, grandchildren, and the extended “Raycroft Beach” family. Thursday nights at Chelo’s with friends of over fifty years became a cherished tradition, one he upheld even in his final weeks.

Above all, Thomas’s greatest joy was his family. His grandchildren were his “sidekicks,” and together they shared endless adventures of climbing playgrounds, playing hide-and-seek, gardening, riding ocean waves, learning to ride bikes, and indulging in countless ice cream dates. These precious memories will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

Despite his diagnosis two and a half years ago, Thomas faced FTD with unparalleled strength, grace, and resilience. Even after losing his language skills early in his journey, he maintained his positive attitude, warm smile, and steadfast devotion to his loved ones. His bravery was a source of strength for his family, who are deeply grateful to the extended community of friends and caregivers who supported them throughout this time.

Thomas’s legacy will endure in the love he shared, the memories he created, and the lives he touched. He will forever be remembered in the sands of the Cape, the sprinkles on an ice cream cone, and the seeds of every tomato grown in his honor.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the HopeHealth Hospice team, particularly his CNA Kelly and Nurse Carolynn, whose compassionate care brought comfort to Thomas and his family in his final days.

His funeral was held on Monday, December 16th at 11:00 a.m. in WILLIAM W. TRIPP Funeral Home, 1008 Newport Ave., Pawtucket, followed by interment at St. Francis Cemetery, Pawtucket. Calling hours were held on Sunday, December 15th from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to HopeHealth Hospice & Palliative Care, 1085 N. Main St., Providence, RI 02904 would be appreciated. Online condolences and photo sharing welcomed at www.trippfuneralhome.com

Ron Tremper

Ron Tremper of Rehoboth, MA died peacefully on December 22 after a rapid battle with pancreatic cancer. He leaves

Andrew J. Correia, MBIE; President/Funeral Director & Embalmer

his wife of 50 years, Kate Kavanagh, son, Jamie, daughter, Casey, Jamie’s wife, Mary and grandsons, Owen, Gabe and Jack. Also his sisters, Carol Schneider and Judy Smith and their families.

Ron was a long time administrator at the RI Department of Mental Health, dedicated to improving funding and opportunities. More recently Ron volunteered his carpentry expertise to leading build teams for South County Habitat for Humanity.

Known for zero patience but 100% thoughtfulness, Ron will be deeply missed. Services will be private. Ron and his family ask that in lieu of cards, food, or flowers; donations (monetary or time) be sent to South County Habitat for Humanity, P O Box 68, Shannon, RI 02875.

Thomas L. Sladen, III

Ron Tremper

Jo-Ann Barclay Monsarrat

Jo-Ann Monsarrat

Jo-Ann Barclay Monsarrat, 78, of Swansea, MA, died peacefully on December 23, 2024 at Miriam Hospital. She was the loving wife of Peter H. Monsarrat. Born in Pawtucket, she was the daughter of the late David T. Barclay and Dorothy E. (McQuiston) Barclay.

Mrs. Monsarrat was a stockbroker’s assistant with Merrill Lynch for many years until her retirement. She attended of Epworth United Methodist Church in Pawtucket.

In addition to her husband, she leaves her two stepchildren: Jonathan G. Monsarrat and Scott W. Monsarrat. She was the sister of Dana D. Barclay of Virginia Beach, VA.

Her Funeral Service will be held Wednesday, January 8, 2025 at 1:00 P.M. in Epworth United Methodist Church, 915 Newport Avenue, Pawtucket, RI. Burial in Park Lawn Cemetery, Bennington, VT will be private.

Friends may call Tuesday, January 7th from the hours of 5:007:00 P.M. in the Home of J.H. WILLIAMS & CO., 210 Taunton Avenue, East Providence, RI.

In lieu of flowers, gifts in her memory to Epworth United Methodist Church, 915 Newport Avenue, Pawtucket, RI 02861 will be appreciated.

Joan E. (Eklund) Jecoy

Joan E. (Eklund) Jecoy, 84, of Rehoboth and Oak Bluffs, MA, passed away on December 13, 2024 at Hulitar Hospice Center in Providence, RI. Born in Pawtucket, RI, she was the daughter of the late A. Norman Joan A.L. (Lawson) Eklund. Her husband of 64 years, Earl E. Jecoy, passed away in September.

Joan was a graduate of East Providence High School and worked for 13 years at Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School as the attendance clerk. She worked in accounts receivable in several

locations and later worked with her husband in the gift shop at the Martha’s Vineyard Campmeeting Association. Joan was a talented cake decorator for Mad Martha’s Ice Cream and The Wesley Bakery in Oak Bluffs, MA. She created beautiful wedding cakes, including for her daughters’ weddings.

She leaves two daughters; Debra J. Nunes and her husband Norman of Richmond, RI and Karin M. Visalli and her husband Anthony of Wilmington, MA, four grandchildren; Kathleen M. Visalli, Jennifer E. Nunes, Rachel K. LaFleur, and Joseph E. Visalli, a great-granddaughter, Carly A. Finch, a sister, Marcia V. Owens of Bradenton, FL and a brother, Alfred N. Eklund of Portsmouth, RI, and several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service was held on Wednesday, December 18, 2024 at Rehoboth Village Cemetery, 190 Bay State Road, Rehoboth, MA. Calling were respectfully omitted.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital. Please visit www.smithmason.com for online condolences.

Audrey A. (Boler) Eckilson

Audrey Eckilson

Audrey A. (Boler) Eckilson, 90, passed away on December 26, 2024 after a short illness. She was the wife of the late Gustav W. Eckilson, the daughter of the late Gladys (Farrell) and Stephen Boler, and sister of Robert Boler and the late Carol Campbell and Jane Vinitti.

Audrey was a life-long resident of Rehoboth, and an active member of the Rehoboth Congregational Church where she was a Deacon and active with the WKB and Christmas Bazar. For many years,

she worked as a teacher’s aide at the South Coast Educational Collaborative. In retirement, she enjoyed cooking, spending time with her grandchildren and traveling with her husband Ecky to visit national parks and rodeos across the country.

She is survived by her son Karl of Dublin, NH, her son Erik and his wife Michelle of Woonsocket, RI, grandchildren Jennie, Tyler, Justin and Julie and great-grandson Logan.

Calling hours will be held at J.H. WILLIAMS & CO. FUNERAL HOME, 210 Taunton Ave in East Providence, RI on Friday, January 3, 2025 from 4:00-6:00 P.M.

Her Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, January 4th at 11:00 A.M. in the Rehoboth Congregational Church, 139 Bay State Rd, Rehoboth, MA. Burial will follow in Rehoboth Village Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, gifts in her memory to Rehoboth Congregational Church would be appreciated.

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

Joan E. Jecoy

Cornelius “Neal” V. Harrington

Rehoboth, MA – Cornelius “Neal” V. Harrington, 96, passed away peacefully at his home with his family and friends by his side on Thursday, December 19, 2024. He was the beloved husband of the late Lillian “Louise” (Marx) Harrington, who passed away in 2011, at the time they had been married for fifty-four years. Born in Fall River, he was a son of the late Walter, Sr. and Blanche (Levesque) Harrington.

Neal worked as a supervisor and foreman at various business over the years, including, Russo & Petit Truck Bodies in Rehoboth, Providence Truck Bodies and Spidel both in Providence,

Neal Harrington and most recently as shift supervisor at Electric Boat until his retirement. After his retirement he earned his certificate to become an EMT, where he served many town residents, even being nominated being the oldest licensed EMT in the Commonwealth. He also served the Town of Rehoboth in many capacities through his service to the Council on Aging, where he was a member of the Board of Directors, the Rehoboth Housing Authority, to which he was appointed by the Governor of Massachusetts.

In addition to his dedication to the community, Neal was a Master Mason and a member of the Eastern Star Lodge in Rehoboth, the Rehoboth Lions Club, and a founding member of Boy Scouts of America, Rehoboth Troop # 13. Neal was also a proud and long-term member of AA and very proud to celebrate over sixty years of sobriety.

In his free time, Neal had a passion for tinkering and fixing just about anything using his skills of good old fashioned “Yankee Ingenuity”, fishing and boating and moving about the town in his 1929 Ford Model A.

Neal was devoted to his family, friends and the town he called home for so many years. He will be lovingly remembered by all whose lives he has touched over the past ninety-six years. Neal was truly a father to many and “Pop’s” to all!

Neal leaves seven children, Ann Louise Ashey and her husband, Robert of Rhode Island, Robert Allen Lingard and his wife, Janet of Massachusetts, Richard Irving Lingard and his wife, Aida of Rhode Island, Neal Harrington and his wife, Carol of New Hampshire, Tish Vadnais and her husband, Skip, of Rehoboth, George Harrington and his wife, Lisa of Rhode Island, and Richard Harrington and his wife, Diane also in Rhode Island; two daughters-in-law, Jan Harrington of Florida and Sheree Lingard of MA; twenty-four grandchildren; many great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He was the father of the late Norman Harrington and Reginald David Lingard and the brother of the late Edna Marchand and her husband, Jerry, and Walter Harrington, Jr. and his wife, Sherri.

SERVICES were held on Saturday, December 28th at 9 a.m. at WILLIAM W. TRIPP Funeral Home, 1008 Newport Ave., Pawtucket, followed by burial in the family lot at Christ Church Cemetery in Swansea. CALLING HOURS were held on Friday, December 27th from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts to the Health & Human Services Department, C/O Elizabeth Doyle, 27 Francis Farm Rd., Rehoboth, MA 02769 would be appreciated. TrippFuneralHome.com

Melissa G. Johnson

Melissa G. Johnson, 57, of Rehoboth, died at home on December 24, 2024. Born in Attleboro, she was the daughter of Robert E. Johnson of Rehoboth and the late Phyllis G. (Greenleaf) Johnson.

In addition to her father, she leaves her companion, William Garner of Rehoboth and his son Dominic Garner. She was the sister of Robert E. Johnson, II and his wife Bonnie of Rehoboth and the late Mark D.B. Johnson. She was the sister-in-law of Malissa Johnson of Rehoboth. Cherished

G. Johnson aunt of Taylor Johnson, Brieanne Almeida, Julia Johnson, Devin Johnson, & Preston Johnson.

Her graveside service was held Friday, January 3, 2025 at 12:00 P.M. in Stevens Corner Cemetery, Route 118, Rehoboth, MA.

Friends called Thursday from the hours of 4:00 to 7:00 P.M. in the Home of J.H. WILLIAMS & CO., 210 Taunton Avenue, East Providence, RI.

In lieu of flowers, gifts in her memory to Rehoboth People Have a Heart, 94 Tremont St., Rehoboth, MA 02769 will be appreciated. For online messages of condolence, kindly visit www.jhwilliamsfuneralhome.com

Seekonk Death Notices

• Atty. David I. McIntyre, Esq., 81, passed away on December 3, 2024 after a long illness.

• *Joseph A. Trombetta, 93, passed away December 5, 2024 at the Rhode Island Veterans Home in Bristol. *Military Veteran

• Clifford F. Wallace, Jr, 79, a longtime resident of Seekonk, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on December 15, 2024.

Melissa

People In The News

“Cowgirls for Christmas” Spread Holiday Cheer with Toy Delivery to Hasbro

Rehoboth sisters, Everly (5) and Charlotte (8) Oliviera, organized a heartwarming toy drive from October to December. On the evening of December 18th, they delivered an incredible total of 351 toys to Hasbro Children’s Hospital! With help from their mom, they worked tirelessly to sort, count, and transport the toys. These thoughtful gifts will bring joy to children and their siblings who will be spending Christmas in the hospital.

Fill a Cruiser

The Rehoboth Police Department expresses its sincere gratitude to all who participated in the Fill a Cruiser event at the station today, supporting the Tomorrow Fund for children at Hasbro Hospital

University News

Nicholas Calamar (Seekonk) Among Belmont University’s Fall 2024 Dean’s List Scholars

Nashville, TN -- Nicholas Calamar (Seekonk) was named among the students who qualified for Belmont University’s fall 2024 Dean’s List. Belmont University recently released the Dean’s List for the fall 2024 semester. Approximately 53% of the University’s 7,175 undergraduate students qualified for the fall 2024 Dean’s List.

Sophia Lachapelle-Miller named to Husson

University

Online’s President’s List

Bangor, ME -- Sophia Lachapelle-Miller of Seekonk, MA, has been named to Husson University Online’s President’s List for Term 4 of the 2023-2024 academic year.

Lachapelle-Miller is enrolled in Husson’s online BS Animal Care and Behavior program.

Sisters Everly and Charlotte Oliviera

Delivering the toys to Hasbro

Everly and Charlotte collected 351 toys to donate!

Volunteers ready to deliver toys to Hasbro

Your dream DESTINATION WEDDING awaits on Tybee Island, GA

Located just a short drive from Historic Savannah, GA, Tybee Island is often hailed as "Savannah's Beach." Directly on the Atlantic Ocean, Hotel Tybee is the ideal spot for a destination wedding

Accommodates wedding receptions up to 140

208 onsite guest rooms

Breathtaking, panoramic views of the beach and Atlantic Ocean

Fly direct from Boston to Savannah

The only thing we overlook is the ocean.

Events & Activities

Arts in the Village 22nd Season Preview

Arts in the Village, a program under the Rehoboth Antiquarian Society, announces its spring concerts for2025. Hear world renown artists in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere! Free refreshments, handicapped parking and ramp to building.

The three concerts this spring are as follows:

• February 23, 2025: Champlain Trio — violin, cello, piano

• March 23, 2025: Sheffield Chamber Players — String Quartet

• April 27, 2025: Stephanie and Saar-- piano duo

All concerts: Sundays at 2:30 pm

Goff Memorial Hall, 124 Bay State Rd, Rehoboth, MA 02769

Adults $25.00, Students/child $10. Pay at the door, no reserved seating

For more information: 508-431-6879 • www.rehobothantiquarian. org/arts-in-the-village

Arts in the village is a nonprofit 501 (c) (3) organization.

Blood Drive in Memory of Bob McKenna

Bob McKenna

The 12th annual blood drive in memory of Bob McKenna is scheduled for Saturday, January 25, 2025 at Seekonk High School from 8:00 - 3:00. The turnout has been wonderful every year and hopefully the trend continues. Bob was an active member of the community during the 20+ years he lived in Seekonk. He was also a lifelong blood donor.

Blood donations are desperately needed. Bob always encouraged people to do their part. Now his family has taken up that charge. Please take advantage of this opportunity to donate close to home. Appointments can be made on the RI Blood Center website (RIBC.org) or by contacting Karen McKenna at kmckenna10@aol.com. Please keep in mind, if you are a regular blood donor, your last donation for 2024 can be no later than November 30 in order to be eligible to donate at this drive in January.

This is a wonderful way to start the new year on a positive note. Help someone else - donate blood!

Southeastern Massachusetts Festival Chorus Open Rehearsal Announcement Spring 2025

The SMFC began with a simple idea; uniting people who share two common interests – a love for music and a desire to perform in a pleasant, relaxing atmosphere. We invite new singers to share this journey with us by attending open rehearsal and learning more about SMFC.

Our spring concert is titled “American Postcards” and will include music that highlights many parts of the county. A selection of Showtunes will include “Lullaby of Broadway”, “Good Morning, Baltimore”, and “Oklahoma”. Standard hits will include “Chattanooga Choo Choo”, “Forever Motown”, and “Theme from New York, New York”. More recent radio tunes will include “Mountain Music”, “Walking in

Memphis”, “We Built this City”, and a medley of John Denver tunes. Plus so much more! Concerts are scheduled for May 16 and 17, 2025 and will be accompanied by professional musicians.

New singers are invited to attend our next open rehearsal on Monday, January 27th, 2025 to sing with us and learn more about becoming a member. A brief, informal audition will take place following the rehearsal. Singers in all voice parts are welcome to audition. Weekly rehearsals are held each Monday, 7 PM to 9 PM, at First Congregational (Stone) Church, 785 South Main Street, Raynham. For more information, please email admin@smfconline.org or visit smfconline.org.

ChurCh News & eveNts

Seekonk Congregational Church

Sunday Services

We hope you will join us each Sunday at Seekonk Congregational Church UCC at our weekly services with Communion in the Sanctuary at 600 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk, MA with Interim Minister Rev Dr Ruth Shaver. All services begin at 9:30 and all are welcome. Licensed infant/preschool day care is available every week. Check us out, you will be happy you did. We will continue to record our services and they are available the following day at Seekonk Congregational Church YouTube. Church School classes are also at 9:30 each Sunday with children starting in church on the 1st Sunday of each month.

Be A Well Being, Tuesday Jan 7th at 6 PM

Please join us for our 45 minute monthly gathering of quiet time which includes meditation, prayer and gentle movement all in the candlelit Sanctuary led by Sarah Stevenson.

The purpose of the Be a Well Being group is to provide a supportive and non-judgmental forum for exploring stress management strategies and all are invited to attend.

Open Mic Night for 2025

Please join us on Friday January 24th from 6:30 to 9 PM in the Church Hall. We hope you will come and share your talents: singing, playing musical instruments, comedy, dance - all talent is needed. All ages are invited. Call the office to let us know you would like to be on the program. And if you are not ready to perform, come and enjoy the entertainment, this will be a fun night for everyone.

REHOBOTH BAPTIST CHURCH

Rehoboth

Any questions, see Craig Grant 401-633-3512 or Director of Music, Susan Barrow 774-226-3321

On-Going Mission Concerns & Needs

• FOOD FOR ANY YOU KNOW WHO HAVE FINANCIAL CHALLENGES: granola/cereal bars, cereal (especially Cheerios), food in pouches that doesn’t need heating, or peanut butter

• THE CLOTHING SHED is at the end of the County Street parking lot. Drop off your clothing, shoes, belts, purses, blankets, sheets, curtains, pillowcases or stuffed animal donations in a tied-up bag.

• CANS & BOTTLES MA deposit Only: Save the environment and people!! Bring donations to the green bins - Fall River Ave parking lot- lift lid - drop in clean bottles and cans. DEPOSIT ONLY, no water bottles please

If you have any questions on the above or wish to subscribe to our weekly newsletter, please email Donna.euell@gmail.com. All events and services are open to ALL. Please check out our Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/SeekonkCongregationalChurch/ for updates.

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

Newman Congregational Church UCC MLK Day Celebration

Sunday, January 12, 2025 from 5-8PM

You Are Invited to a celebration for the birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. At this family-friendly evening, there will be dancing, refreshments, storytelling and music with DJ, James O’Bryant!

MLK Day honors folks who participate in local service projects and so do we! Balloons & birthday cake to celebrate a great American! RSVP is not necessary but always helpful. All ages are welcome to this free event!

January - 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 January 2025 discussion of “The Messenger” by Ta-Nehisi Coates will be held on Monday, January 6, 13 & 20.

These book studies are made up of diverse participants studying and discussing books about racism in a space of respect. Interested participants may 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.

Newman Congregational Church, United Church of Christ is located at 100 Newman Avenue, Rumford, RI 02916. For more information, contact the Church Office at 401-434-4742 X10.

Community Covenant Church News

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

Rehoboth Ramblings

by Leslie Patterson

Bold Explorers, Present and Past

“How would you do if you went to space for eight days and were gone for six months?” The New York Times asked on Dec. 27. Not very well, but I wouldn’t go into space at all so it’s a moot point. As a claustrophobic, I’m not sure I could stand the confinement long enough to take a short tour of the international space station while it was still on the ground

“Most of us would panic if we were stranded in space without a firm return date. But Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore aren’t like most of us,” the Times writer continues. These two brave NASA astronauts left for the international space station on June 4. Due to technical problems on the spacecraft, the return was considered too risky for human flight, and now NASA has further postponed the retrieval mission from this February to who knows when.

I’m glad the astronauts are being brave and upbeat, because I find just the thought of this very disturbing and I hope that they can get this sorted and return the astronauts to Earth as soon as possible. Isn’t it remarkable how some people are so bold and daring, while others, including me, get stressed and anxious when faced with a two-hour flight delay?

I’ve also been reading a new book about another bold explorer, Captain James Cook, and his 18th century voyages around the Pacific from Tahiti to Hawaii to Alaska. He set off from England on his third Pacific voyage in 1776 on the ship HMS Resolution. It did not end well for him.

The book is “The Wide Wide Sea: Imperial Ambition, First Contact, and the Fateful Final Voyage of Captain James Cook” by Hampton Sides, and it is so full of interesting bits that I can’t do it justice in just a few paragraphs. Many people know about Captain Cook’s death after a conflict with native Hawaiians on his third Pacific visit, after his very successful first meeting there previously.

But I hadn’t realized that Cook was also in the Pacific navigating the coast of Alaska, looking for that elusive Northwest Passage. He and his men were the first Western Europeans to explore the Pacific Northwest coast, a few decades before Lewis and Clark’s overland expedition. When they finally returned to Britain after two and a half years, the sailors (minus Cook) were shocked to hear about the war with the American colonies.

We visited the Cook Memorial Museum in Whitby on England’s Northeast Coast a few years ago. I pictured a young sailor looking out over Whitby Harbor at the 18th century sailing ships, and thought how far he traveled and what adventures he had before things went wrong for him. The author includes a current photo of the Cook Memorial (now splattered with red paint reading You Are on Native Land) in a secluded part of the Hawaiian coast. First contact between two very different groups of people over the ages was usually fraught, what with the arriving group invading the other’s territory.

One of the most amusing parts of “The Wide Wide Sea” is a sailor’s very detailed description of surfing. The British sailors were astounded by this athletic display and wanted to tell the folks back home how amazing this was. It wasn’t like now when you can find a gazillion surfing videos on YouTube.

While Captain Cook and his men probably wouldn’t be surprised that the balmy and beautiful Pacific islands they explored have become popular tourist destinations, they might be surprised by the steady stream of tourist ships in Alaska, where they barely survived some terrible storms at sea.

You can imagine the sailors’ dismay at having to leave a tropical paradise to head back up into the gloomy north, going from warm tropical breezes and a tasty fresh diet to the cold and bleak weather, subsiding on blubber from walrus. This would be grim indeed, risk-

ing their lives in a wooden 18th century ship with almost nothing in the way of comfort.

So, while the spirit of adventure still persists today, the frontier is now far beyond this Earth. Whatever perils the explorers of long ago encountered in their travels, they could still breath the air and know they were on Earth, whether on land or sea. While going on a long sea voyage has never appealed to me, I think of going into space as terrifying beyond words.

I can always tell when school sports are back in full swing by the steady stream of athletes who limp into my office with torn ACLs. Every year, I have to tell heartbroken players that they’ll have to spend the rest of their season on the bench. Sadly, these conversations are becoming more frequent:

Health & Wellness 2025

By Dr. Andrew D. Pearle

The number of high school athletes who suffered ACL tears increased 26% between 2007 and 2022.

The incidence of torn ACLs has increased with the growth of youth sports. Kids are playing at younger ages and year-round. They’re training harder.

Yet we haven’t matched this growth with an investment in injury prevention.

Most ACL ruptures occur when an athlete moves in a way that involves a change of direction, like dodging another player or landing after a jump. Agility-based sports -like soccer, football, and basketball -- have higher rates. Girls experience ACL tears up to eight times more frequently than boys. High school girls playing year-round soccer have the highest risk of all -- an alarming 16% to 18% chance of rupturing an ACL.

Knee injuries are not an inevitable part of playing sports. Decades of research have shown that targeted exercises to improve agility-based body control can reduce the risk of ACL tears and other knee injuries by 50% to 80%.

As an orthopedic surgeon at the Hospital for Special Surgery, I work with hundreds of professional athletes to prevent ACL tears using neuromuscular training programs, or NMT. Younger athletes can also benefit from these techniques.

NMT trains athletes to stay in control of their bodies when rapidly changing direc-

tions. It teaches them to plant and move explosively and safely, keep their balance when landing jumps, and decelerate, stop, and start with proper body mechanics. They require no special equipment; a typical regimen can be completed in just 30 minutes a week in the space of a yoga mat.

In one study, regular practice reduced all injuries by one-third. The NFL and NBA have incorporated neuromuscular training into their workout programs.

Yet few high school athletes are trained in the method. The result has been an epidemic of knee injuries.

Each year, surgeons perform about 350,000 ACL reconstructions. But surgery is only a first step. Many athletes will never return to the field. Rehab typically takes a year, and half of those who tear their ACLs will develop early-onset arthritis within five to 15 years. These athletes are at greater risk of re-tearing their ACLs -- and are seven times more likely to need knee replacements.

Sports leagues have long mandated protective equipment like helmets, pads, and shin guards. Now it’s time for them to adopt the same attitude toward the prevention of torn knee ligaments.

I hate having to tell young athletes that their season is over -- and that their dreams of playing competitive sports may be, too. We have an effective way to keep them out of the operating room and on the playing field. Let’s use it.

Dr. Andrew D. Pearle is the Chief of Sports Medicine at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York. This piece originally ran in The Detroit News.

This “Super Sport” Might Be the Healthiest Game Ever Invented

By Dr. Brian Hainline

Everyone knows that exercise is healthy, and that playing sports is one of the best -- and most enjoyable -- ways to maintain optimal weight, boost mental wellbeing, and improve strength, balance, and flexibility.

But what is the “healthiest” sport? Does it really matter which activity folks pick, so long as they’re exercising?

Contrary to conventional wisdom, it does matter. A recent study tracked more than 8,000 people over a quarter century to determine which activities offered the greatest health benefits. And there was a clear standout: tennis.

Tennis added 9.7 years to a typical player’s life, compared to that of a sedentary person. The only sport that came close to this was badminton, which added 6.2 years of life.

As a physician who previously served as the chief medical officer of the NCAA, US Open, and chaired two high-level forums for the International Olympic Committee, I’ve noticed for decades that tennis offers people who want to get and stay healthy the most “bang-for-their-buck” when it comes to time, effort, and actual bucks.

Tennis is ideally orchestrated to keep your heart healthy. The high-intensity intervals of activity elevate your heart rate, enhance blood flow, and strengthen cardiovascular health. Just three hours on the court each week could reduce the risk of death from cardiovascular disease by 56%, and the risk of death from all causes by 47%.

Aerobic exercise, by comparison, reduced all-cause mortality by just 27%. Remarkably, running and soccer had no effect on people’s risk of death.

Playing tennis is associated with greater bone mineral density in the femurs, hips, and spine. Tennis players have “significantly greater” upper body musculoskeletal function than their inactive counterparts.

Even those new to the sport could reap its benefits. As one review notes, “numerous studies have identified better bone health not only in tennis players with lifelong tennis participation histories, but also in those who take on the sport in mid-adulthood.”

Tennis also improves mobility, flexibility, and balance. Returning a serve, or positioning yourself for a precision volley, engages the whole body. Each burst of movement -- stretching, accelerating, or pivoting -- leads to improved coordination.

The confidence that comes from engaging skillfully with a physical task -- sometimes referred to as physical literacy -- is another reason to take up the game. 80% of players reported improvements in self-esteem after regular trips to the court.

Tennis is also one of the few lifelong sports that can be played cheaply and conveniently. Visit any tennis court -- there are roughly 250,000 of them nationwide -- and it’s common to see folks playing into their 70s and 80s.

Any exercise is better than no exercise. But if folks are looking to maximize their health gains, now and for decades to come, I always tell them to go pick up a racquet and head to their local tennis court.

Brian Hainline, MD is Chair of the Board and President of the United States Tennis Association and recently transitioned from the NCAA as their Chief Medical Officer. He co-chaired the International Olympic Committee Consensus Meetings on both Pain Management in Elite Athletes and Mental Health in Elite Athletes. Brian is a Clinical Professor of Neurology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine.

Rajendrasinh Rathod MD, FACOG

Rosa Bermudez Emmanuelli MD, FACOG

Diana Calogrias MD, FACOG

Earline Llewellyn MD, FACOG

Shuikee Rice MSN, NP

Jeannine Connolly MD

Jennifer DeCarolis WHNP, RNC

Lawrence Greb MD

Health & Wellness 2025

6 Reasons Why You Should Get Help for Your Mental Health

By Stan Popovich

Many people underestimate the impact that mental illness can have on an individual or family. It can be difficult to admit that you have a mental health problem in your life. Secondly, it can be just as difficult in getting the people you know to understand your situation without making any kinds of judgments.

As a result, here are six reasons why you should make your mental health an important priority in your life.

1. Your situation will improve if you get help: Your anxieties and fears can be challenging to manage and more than likely you will need some help. Just as you talk to your doctor about your regular health, you should not be hesitant in seeking help for your mental health. If left untreated, your anxieties and fears may not go away.

2. Drugs and alcohol are not the answer: Drugs and alcohol can make your problems more complicated. Many people have said that drugs and alcohol will only add more problems to your situation. Be smart and learn how to cope with your mental health issues by talking to a qualified professional. There are many health professionals in your area that can give you some ideas on where you can go for assistance.

3. You will save time and money: Eventually, you will have to confront your fears and mental health issues. Save yourself the time and heartache and confront your problems now rather than later. You will save months of struggling by getting help right away. The sooner you get assistance the faster you will start getting some relief.

4. You are not alone: Everyone deals with fear, stress, and anxiety in one’s life whether your friends and others care to admit it. In addition, do not be embarrassed that you are getting help. We all learn new things from others on a daily basis and learning how to manage your anxieties is no different. In addition, your goal is to get your life back on track and not to get everyone’s approval. If people start asking you questions, just say your dealing with stress. Most people can relate to dealing with stress and anxiety!

5. Do not make the mistake of doing nothing: There are many people who struggled with anxiety and other mental health related issues, and they tried to ignore their problems. As a result, some of these people struggled on a daily basis and eventually things became more difficult. It can be scary asking for assistance, but the key is to take things one day at a time.

6. You have a variety of options: There are many mental health support groups, organizations, and counselors in your area that can help get your life back on track. Talk to your doctor to get more details on where you can go for some assistance. Help is available but you must be willing to make the choice of getting better. Remember that every problem has a solution. You just have to make the effort to find the answers.

6 Tips on How to Discuss Your Mental Health with Others

By: Stan Popovich

It can be frustrating to struggle with your mental health and to get your family and friends to understand where you are coming from.

Although most people may be understanding, there is usually one or two people who will make things more challenging for you.

As a result, here are six suggestions on how to deal with the people you know regarding your mental health situation.

1. Listen to the professionals: Your friends may mean well, but when it comes down to it, the professionals are aware of your circumstances more than anyone. It is important that you listen and follow the advice from your doctor or medical professional rather than following the advice from your friends and other people you may know.

2. Don’t argue with others: It is important that you do not get into arguments with those who are giving you a tough time. It is not your job to worry about how others may view your circumstances. Focus on managing your mental health rather than trying to get everyone’s approval.

3. Choose your friends wisely: Distance yourself from those who won’t make an effort to help understand what you are going through. You need to surround yourself with positive and supportive people. If you have problems or issues with a particular person, then its best to keep your distance and hang out with those people are more supportive.

4. Attend a mental health support group: There are many mental health awareness support groups in any given area. Many hospitals, churches, and counselors in your area will be able to provide you with a list of these organizations. These groups will be aware of your situation and can give you additional advice regarding your concerns.

5. You are not alone: There are millions of people around the world who struggle with their fears, anxieties, and depression. Many

of your relatives and friends more than likely struggled with anxiety and stress sometime in their life. Do not feel that you are alone when it comes to your mental health situation because there all kinds of people around you who can relate.

6. Your goal is to get better: Focus on how you can handle the anxieties and stresses in your life rather than arguing with others who are giving you a difficult time. This isn’t a public relations event where you need to get approval from everyone. This is your life, and you need to be more concerned about getting your life back on track rather than pleasing everyone else.

Biography

Stan is the author of “A Layman’s Guide to Managing Fear” which covers a variety of techniques that can drastically improve your mental health. For more information, please visit Stan’s website at http://www. managingfear.com

237 Winthrop Street, Rehoboth Junction of Routes 44 and 118

Health & Wellness 2025

Manage Heart Health for Stronger Brain Health

(Family Features) The same risk factors that contribute to making heart disease the leading cause of death worldwide also impact the rising global prevalence of brain disease, including stroke, Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

The global death rate from Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias is increasing even more than the rate of heart disease death, according to the American Heart Association’s Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics 2022 Update.

Globally, more than 54 million people had Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias in 2020, a 37% increase since 2010 and 144% increase over the past 30 years (1990-2020). Additionally, more than 1.89 million deaths were attributed to Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias worldwide in 2020, compared to nearly 9 million deaths from heart disease.

“The global rate of brain disease is quickly outpacing heart disease,” said Mitchell S.V. Elkind, M.D. M.S., FAHA, the past president of the American Heart Association (2020-21), a professor of neurology and epidemiology at Columbia University’s Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons and attending neurologist at New York-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center. “We are learning more about how some types of dementia are related to aging, and how some types are due to poor vascular health. It’s becoming more evident that reducing vascular disease risk factors can make a real difference in helping people live longer, healthier lives, free of heart disease and brain disease.”

According to the statistics update, people with midlife hypertension were five times more likely to experience impairment on global cognition and about twice as likely to experience reduced executive function, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. The risk for dementia associated with heart failure was nearly two-fold.

maintaining good vascular health is associated with healthy aging and retained cognitive function.

Optimal brain health includes the ability to perform tasks like movement, perception, learning and memory, communication, problem solving, judgment, decision making and emotion. Cognitive decline and dementia are often seen following stroke or cerebrovascular disease and indicate a decline in brain health.

Consider these steps to live a healthier lifestyle and protect your heart and brain health:

• Don’t smoke; avoid secondhand smoke.

• Reach and maintain a healthy weight. Be mindful of your eating habits; eat foods low in saturated fat, trans fat, sodium and added sugars.

• Be physically active. Start slowly and build up to at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity (such as brisk walking) each week. As an alternative, you can do 75 minutes of vigorous physical activity, or a combination of the two, to improve overall cardiovascular health.

• Get your blood pressure checked regularly and work with your health care team to manage it if it’s high.

• Have regular medical checkups and take your medicine as directed.

• Decrease your stress level and seek emotional support when needed.

Learn more about the relationship between heart health and brain health at heart.org.

Take a Rest from Stress

5 strategies to combat stressful triggers

Experts recommend maintaining a healthy weight, managing your blood pressure and following other heart-healthy lifestyle behaviors that can also support good brain health while studies show

(Family Features) Stress, the physical or mental response to external causes like overwhelming work assignments or difficult life moments, can add unnecessary pressure to your day to day. While everyone feels stress from time to time, when left untreated or unrecognized, it can begin to wreak havoc in the form of anxiety.

In honor of National Stress Awareness Month, consider these strategies to combat stress from the National Institutes of Mental Health.

Learn Your Triggers

Different events and situations cause stress for different people. Knowing what triggers your stress to kick in - mounds of office paperwork, important financial decisions or hectic mornings, for example - can help you plan and prepare for stress-inducing moments.

Exercise and Eat Right

Maintaining physical health can be beneficial for mental health, too. Find time to do exercises you enjoy like walking, jogging, yoga or playing a sport. Identifying activities that bring you joy can make it easier to fit 30-60-minute workouts into your schedule without adding even more stress. Complement your workout routine with nutritional meals that help you stay on track with your fitness goals.

Practice Relaxation

Whether you find inner peace through journaling, breathing exercises, reading or some other form of slowing down, find what works for you and prioritize fitting it into your daily schedule. Relaxing activities help you slow down the pace of life, providing a chance to reset by doing something you enjoy.

Get Enough Sleep

A lack of quality sleep can add to stress. Creating a bedtime routine can increase your sleep habits and help you achieve the expert-recommended 7-9 hours per night. Put away electronics, which can interfere with your ability to calm your mind, and find an activity that puts you at ease like reading a book or listening to

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relaxing music. Ensure your bedroom is optimized for comfort by making it cool, dark and quiet.

Create

a Network of Support

Everyone experiences stress. Reach out to family members and close friends you can lean on in stressful and frustrating moments. Share your feelings and encourage others to do the same, which can increase trust and help everyone in your circle cope in a positive way.

Find more ways to combat stress and care for your mental health at eLivingtoday.com.

5 Tips to Upgrade Your Sleep

(Family Features) Good sleep isn’t just about waking up feeling rested and ready for the day. Quality sleep, and plenty of it, is important for your overall health. While you sleep, your body naturally recharges itself, which puts you at lower risk for cardiovascular problems and chronic conditions like diabetes, as well as improving your immune system.

Sleep also contributes to better brain function, memory, concentration and lower stress. According to the National Institutes of Health, most adults need 7-9 hours of sleep every night to achieve maximum health benefits.

If you’re falling short of the recommended amount of sleep, you may be able to make some adjustments that help you reap the health benefits of better rest. Learn what you can do to improve your sleep with these tips from the experts in safer, healthier sleep at Naturepedic.

Reduce Light Exposure

Your body’s natural circadian rhythms are closely aligned with light and dark. When your body senses light, it sends signals to your brain that it’s time to be awake. Light also suppresses your body’s production of melatonin, a hormone linked to sleep. Cutting back on bright lights and avoiding devices at least an hour before bed can tell your body it’s time to wind down, and sleeping in a dark room promotes better rest.

Invest in the Right Mattress

Your mattress plays a major role in your comfort through the night, so making sure it fits your needs is an important step toward getting better rest. Take control of your comfort with a quality mattress such as Naturepedic’s EOS (Ergonomic Organic Sleep) mattress, which is handcrafted and made without polyurethane foam, formaldehyde, flame retardants or fiberglass. The breathable layers of certified organic cotton, wool and GOTS-approved latex ensure better temperature regulation while naturally contouring the body. An added feature is the ability to customize each side of the bed by opening the zippers and adjusting the layered components for the perfect comfort combination.

Find the Right Sheets

Sheets that are too stiff, scratchy or otherwise unpleasant make it nearly impossible to settle in for a good night’s rest. Higher thread counts tend to be softer, higher quality sheets. However, you may need to experiment to find which material suits you best.

Set a Comfortable Temperature

When you’re too hot or cold, your mind tends to focus on those sensations rather than allowing you to slip into a slumber. Set your thermostat at a comfortable temperature, adding fans or adjusting the layers of bedding as necessary to achieve the perfect level of cozy comfort.

Use a Sound Machine

If you’re a light sleeper, noise can wreak havoc on your rest. Many people find sound machines offer two key benefits: They

provide a soothing sound, such as rain or ocean waves, that allows you to relax and ease into slumber and constant background noise, so additional sounds are less disruptive. Find more solutions for achieving better sleep at Naturepedic.com.

Sleeping in Separate Beds

Sleeping in separate beds or rooms is a choice made by many couples, but results show it has less to do with the health of the relationship and more to do with quality sleep.

According to a survey by Naturepedic, more than 40% of couples who share a bed reported that sleep issues have caused them to question their relationship. Snoring, conflicting sleep schedules and different temperature preferences were frequently cited as concerns. However, motion transfer and mattress comfort were also reasons people said they miss having their own beds.

A bed that allows each person to customize their comfort can alleviate those problems. For example, Naturepedic’s EOS mattress allows you to adjust the layered components inside to achieve the perfect comfort combination on each side.

That’s potentially good news for couples who sleep apart, as 33% of respondents reported having different mattress firmness and softness preferences, which ultimately led to their decision.

“When it comes to sleeping together, these survey results bring to light how critical personalized mattress comfort is,” said Barry Cik, founder and technical director of Naturepedic. “Luckily, you don’t have to choose between having a good relationship or a good night’s sleep.”

SPORTS REVIEW

BASKETBALL TRAINING

February Vacation Mini Camp

PROVIDENCE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

660 Waterman Ave, East Providence RI

BOYS and GIRLS Ages 5-15

*Campers are grouped by age and ability*

February 18th, 19th, 20th • 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Cost: $85.00 for 3 days or $30 per day for 1-2 days

• Offensive Drills / Shooting Techniques

• Individual Skills Competition

• Fundamentally Based Scrimmages Register Now! Camp fills up quickly! Swim Meet Results

For more info call Frank Luca at 401-639-0814

Register @ www.1on1basketball.com Click “Providence”, then click “Camps”

Seekonk Warrior CoOp Vs ORR 12.17.24

Seekonk Girls Defeats ORR Girls Swim 107-62

Seekonk Boys lost to ORR Boys Swim 85-82

Splits and Official Results Below

Congratulations to the Girls team who won 107 - 62 against ORR.

Girls Swim

• Lydia Craft made states cuts in the 50 Free(25.37), 100 yd Breast (1.11.52) and 200 yd IM (2:14.84)

• Emily Tonino had a personal best in the 200 yd Freestyle(2:04.93) and qualified for states in the 200 yd Freestyle and the 100 yd Butterfly(1:04.32)

• The girls 200yd Free Relay Team composed of Lydia Craft, Morgan Maher, Bonnie Arrigo and Emily

• Tonino made the state cuts with a time of 1:49.28

• The girls 400yd Free Relay Team composed of Lydia Craft, Grace Baldassi, Bonnie Arrigo and Emily Tonino made the sectional cut for this event with a time of 2:14.84.

• Bonnie Arrigo qualified for states with a time of (1:04.82)in the 100 Backstroke

Boys Swim

• Boys Suffered a second loss in 5 days to ORR 82-85, their second loss by 3 or less points this season. Everyone swam well.

• Nick Cavic broke his own SHS record in the fly with a 51.03 beating the prior record by 1.19 seconds. He also made state cuts for 100yd Fly and 100yd Breast (1:01.92)

• Logan Zonfrillo made the state cuts for the 100 Backstroke ((59.87)

We had a total of 39 Warrior Swim best times during this meet for 38 swimmers.

Adriel Oliveira, Evan Cook, Matthew Duhancik, Mateus Goulart Tavares, Justin Lindstrom, Jackson Baldassi, Zack Carter, Aaron Guillmette, Issac Lauro and Logan Pineiro had significant team improvements in their swims for the boys.

As well as Kolbey Charron, Avery Clarke, Vanessa Cook, Charlie Waltzinger, Mauve Keenaghan, and LeAnaia Balzourt for the girls team.

$10 discount for additional players from the same family. There will be a cap of $260 per family for players living in the same household.

Ages and/or grades for each division are subject to change based on the number of players registering. Schedule may include some crossover games with neighboring towns.

All coaches and administrators are volunteers. Any fees collected during registration are used to pay for equipment, uniforms, trophies, umpires, insurance, & permits.

No player will be denied the opportunity to play for nancial hardship reasons - all info is strictly condential. Contact us for information.

Food & Dining Guide

Simple, Sweet Energy Bites

(Culinary.net) Having enough energy and fuel to make it through a long day can be challenging. No matter if you’re a stayat-home parent, corporate worker or small business owner, having a high energy level that lasts throughout the day is important for both you and those around you.

Having enough energy helps you stay alert and attentive to what is going on around you, whether that’s cleaning up after your little ones or filing a report your boss asked for.

When it comes to snacking during the day, these delicious, mouth-watering Energy Bites can give you the boost you need. They are made with creamy peanut butter and honey to curb your sweet cravings but still provide plenty of texture with shredded coconut and raw oats.

They are a perfect snack time nosh, rolled into simple balls, that can help you finish the task at hand.

Not only can they be that 2 p.m. pick-meup, they are also simple to make and simply delightful to eat. You can store them in the

refrigerator in a container for anytime snacking. Plus, the recipe makes 20 servings, which means it’s easy to prep your snacks for the entire week ahead of time. Stop settling at snack time for stale crackers or high-calorie dips. Eating something that can make your body feel good and energize you for the rest of the day keeps you prepared for what’s to come.

Energy Bites

Servings: 20

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter

• 1/3 cup honey

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup raw oats

• 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut

• 1/2 cup flaxseed meal

• 6 tablespoons mini chocolate chips

Directions:

In medium mixing bowl, stir peanut butter, honey and vanilla extract until combined. Add oats, coconut, flaxseed meal and chocolate chips. Mix until combined. Shape into 1-inch balls. Store in airtight container in refrigerator until ready to serve. Find more snack recipes at Culinary. net. If you made this recipe at home, use #MyCulinaryConnection on your favorite social network to share your work.

Indulge Your Sweet Tooth with

a Better-forYou Swap

(Family Features) If you’ve ever come home from a crisp, cool day craving a warm, indulgent treat, you’re not alone. Trouble is, sometimes those baked goodies are a bit too much work when you’re ready to just cozy up on the couch.

There’s good news: Baking doesn’t have to be hard when you make simple swaps and use ingre-dients that keep things easy. Try adding fresh produce to a boxed brownie mix in these Sweet-potato Cheesecake Brownies for an “in between” recipe that satisfies your sweet tooth without the hassle.

Plus, it offers a better-for-you twist as the sweetness from mashed sweet potatoes can replace some of the sugar needed to bake regular brownies. Sweetpotatoes are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber, all of which are good for overall health in this natural sweetener.

While you’re sharing this newfound favorite dessert with loved ones, you can also share this fun fact: “Sweetpotato” is deliberately spelled as one word by the North Carolina Sweetpotato Commission. The sweetpotato and white potato are two distinct species representing two differ-ent plant families, and the one-word spelling helps correctly distinguish the two. Give these better-for-you treats a try and find more delicious desserts and other creative ways to use sweetpotatoes at ncsweetpotatoes. com. Recipe courtesy of the North Carolina Sweetpotato Commission.

Sweetpotato Cheesecake

Brownies

Brownie Layer:

• Floured baking spray

• 1 package (18.2 ounces) dark chocolate fudge brownie mix

• 3/4 cup mashed sweetpotato, cooled

• 1/4 cup vegetable oil

• 1/4 cup water

• 1 egg

Cheesecake Layer:

• 1 package (8 ounces) reduced-fat cream cheese

• 3/4 cup mashed sweetpotato, cooled

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1 egg

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/4 cup miniature chocolate chips

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 F. Spray 9-by-9-inch square pan with floured baking spray.

Energy Bites

Sweetpotato Cheesecake Brownies

To prepare brownie layer: In medium bowl, stir brownie mix, sweetpotato, oil, water and egg until blended. Spread batter in bottom of prepared pan.

To prepare cheesecake layer: Using electric mixer, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add mashed sweetpotato, sugar, egg and vanilla; mix until well blended. Spread cheese mixture over brownie batter. Bake 50-60 minutes, or until wooden pick inserted comes out almost clean. Remove from oven and cool 15 minutes. Sprinkle surface with chocolate chips. Cool completely. Remove from pan and serve.

Aim for Healthier Hydration with a HabitBuilding Beverage

(Family Features) Begin building tiny, healthier practices into routines you already have to help make it easier to establish habits you can stick to. This concept is called “habit stacking,” and it can help you improve habits from morning to night.

Consider those busy mornings when you need an on-the-go solution – rather than opting for sug-ary foods and drinks, turn to Green Tea Berry Banana Smoothies that include unsweetened green tea. When incorporated as part of an overall healthy diet, unsweetened tea can support heart health.

This no-sugar-added recipe from Lipton, a proud national sponsor of the American Heart Associ-ation’s Life is Why campaign, can help you enjoy healthier mornings while checking emails or hydrating before heading to the office.

Choosing beverages with no added sugars can contribute to a healthy heart, according to the American Heart Association, making these smoothies perfect for building into a morning routine. Because it’s predominantly water, which is needed to keep your body running at its best, un-sweetened tea provides a delicious way to hydrate without ditching those healthier habits.

Green Tea Berry Banana Smoothies

Servings: 4 (1 1/2 cups per serving)

Ingredients:

• 3 cups water

• 8 single-serving green tea bags

• 16 oz frozen mixed berries (about 3 cups)

• 2 medium bananas, peeled, cut in half and frozen

• 1 cup fat-free plain Greek yogurt

• 2 teaspoons grated gingerroot (optional)

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (optional)

• 2 teaspoons chia or flax seeds (optional)

Directions:

In small saucepan over high heat, bring water to boil. Remove pan from heat. Submerge tea bags. Steep 4 minutes. Discard tea bags. Let tea mixture cool 30 minutes. Pour into pitcher. Refrigerate 2 hours, or until chilled.

In food processor or blender, process tea, berries, bananas and yogurt until smooth. Add gingerroot and vanilla, if desired, and process until smooth. Pour into four glasses. Sprinkle with chia seeds, if desired. Visit Heart.org/eatsmart to find more habits that contribute to heart health.

How to Elevate Your Lunch with Comforting Staples

(Family Features) Savory and satisfying, comforting ingredients can transform simple recipes into mouthwatering meals. As temperatures fall, people look for comforting foods to warm the soul. For inspiration, consider Italian ingredients to help make homemade lunches easy and satisfying.

For your comfort food cravings, on an appetizer plate, drape thinly sliced, savory Prosciutto di Parma PDO and chunks of Grana Padano PDO to complement your favorite nuts and olives. Both pair beautifully with fruity red, white or sparkling wines, though they also are enjoyable with your favorite beer or soft drink. While these tastes of Italy can be enjoyed on their own, they are also capable of transforming simple dishes into decadent meals.

Find more comforting fall meal ideas by visiting distinctlydeliciouslyeuropean.eu.

Fall Grain Bowl with Prosciutto

Ingredients:

• 1 cup baby arugula

• 1 teaspoon olive oil

• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice

• salt, to taste

• 1 cup cooked farro

• 2 tablespoons pesto

• 3/4 cup cooked squash

• 4 mozzarella bocconcini balls, halved

• 2 slices Prosciutto di Parma PDO, halved

Directions:

In mixing bowl, toss arugula, olive oil, lemon juice and salt, to taste.

Transfer to serving bowl; if packing for lunch, transfer to plastic container.

In another bowl, combine cooked farro and pesto; toss to coat. Transfer farro to serving bowl or plastic container next to arugula.

Top farro with squash and mozzarella bocconcini balls. Drape prosciutto next to squash.

Kale Grilled Cheese

Servings: 2

• 2 teaspoons olive oil

• 1 garlic clove, smashed

• 4 cups (about 1/2 bunch) Tuscan kale, cut into ribbons

• salt, to taste

• 1/2 lemon, juice only

• 2 tablespoons salted butter, softened

• 4 slices sourdough sandwich bread

• 2/3 cup (about 2 ounces) finely grated Grana Padano PDO cheese, divided

• 2/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions:

In large skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Add garlic; cook until golden and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Add kale; cook and stir until slightly wilted and dark green, 2-3 minutes. Season lightly with salt, to taste, and lemon juice. Remove to plate.

Wipe skillet clean. Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread, dividing evenly. Place two slices, buttered sides down, into skillet over medium-low heat. Onto each slice, divide half the Grana Padano; top with half the mozzarella.

Cook until cheese is melted and bottom is golden, 6-7 minutes. Add half the kale to one slice and close sandwich. Repeat with remaining ingredients.

Green Tea Berry Banana Smoothies

Fall Grain Bowl with Prosciutto

Kale Grilled Cheese

From the State houSe

House And Senate Reach Agreement on Licensure Process for Recovery Coaches, Drug and Alcohol Counselors

Legislation will aid Massachusetts’ efforts to combat opioid abuse

Boston – After months of negotiations by a six-member Conference Committee, the Massachusetts House of Representatives and Senate have reached an agreement on legislation that would require the Department of Public Health (DPH) to license alcohol and drug counselors and recovery coaches, while also taking additional steps to help the state combat opioid abuse.

House Bill 5143, An Act relative to treatments and coverage for substance use disorder and recovery coach licensure, was enacted in both branches on December 19 and is now on Governor Maura Healey’s desk for her review and signature. State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R-Seekonk) noted the compromise bill eliminates the Senate’s controversial proposal to authorize safe injection sites and aligns closely with the earlier House version he supported on June 13, when it passed the House on a 153-0 vote.

Representative Howitt said House Bil 5143 requires health insurance carriers offering policies in Massachusetts to provide coverage for prescribed or dispensed opioid medication used in the reversal of overdose caused by opioid use and prohibits insurers from requiring prior authorization for the medication, or subjecting it to a deductible, coinsurance, copayments or out-of-pocket limits. The bill also mandates that health plans provide coverage for recovery coach services offered by a licensed coach, regardless of the setting where these services are provided.

Representative Steven S. Howitt

Supports Bill to Limit out of Pocket Prescription Costs for Consumers and License PBMs

Boston – State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R-Seekonk) is hailing the passage of legislation that limits out of pocket prescription costs for consumers and authorizes the state’s Division of Insurance (DOI) to license and regulate pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs).

Senate Bill 3012, An Act relative to pharmaceutical access, costs and transparency,

was approved by the House of Representatives and the Senate on December 30, 2024, and is now awaiting Governor Maura Healey’s review and signature. Also known as the PACT Act, the bill represents a compromise agreement negotiated by a six-member conference committee that worked to resolve the differences between prior versions of the bill passed in both legislative branches.

Representative Howitt, who supported the original House version of the bill that was engrossed on a vote of 158-0 on July 24, said the PACT Act will help consumers by making certain prescription drugs more affordable, including insulin. He noted that the bill requires health insurers offering individual or group health maintenance policies in Massachusetts, including MassHealth, to limit out-of-pocket costs for medications used to treat diabetes, asthma, and the two most prevalent heart conditions among their members, with insurers required to select one generic and one brand name drug to be subject to a co-pay cap.

Under the PACT Act, generic drugs selected by insurers must be provided to members free of charge and will not be subject to any co-payments, co-insurance, or deductible. For brand name drugs selected by insurers, co-pays will be capped at $25 for a 30-day supply. Representative Howitt said the bill preserves the original House bill’s provision ensuring a continuity of coverage policy for new members who have been previously prescribed and are stable on a drug that has not been selected by the insurer.

According to Representative Howitt, the PACT Act also establishes a formal licensing process for pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), who act as intermediaries between health insurance companies, pharmacies, and drug manufacturers to manage prescription drug benefits. The bill authorizes DOI to license and regulate PBMs operating in Massachusetts, with licenses valid for 3 years and renewals subject to the same time limits.

In addition to conducting examinations to ensure that a pharmacy benefit manager can meet its responsibilities under contracts with carriers, DOI will also be empowered to suspend, revoke, or renew a license with restrictions if such action is deemed necessary to protect the best interest of consumers. The bill sets a fee of $25,000 for applying for or renewing a license.

Representative Howitt said the PACT Act establishes an Office for Pharmaceutical Policy and Analysis (OPPA) within the Health Policy Commission (HPC). The OPPA will be primarily responsible for analyzing trends related to the access and affordability of pharmaceutical drugs in the Commonwealth and will advise the state in matters relating to pharmaceutical drug policy.

Representative Steven S. Howitt hails U.S. Senate Vote to Advance Social Security Fairness Act

Repeal of WEP/GPO will assist many Massachusetts

retirees

Boston – State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R-Seekonk) said the U.S. Senate’s vote this week to advance the Social Security Fairness Act is good news for many Massachusetts retirees.

Representative Howitt joined with his colleagues in the House Republican Caucus to submit a letter to Senators Elizabeth Warren

Steven S. Howitt

and Edward Markey on December 12, urging them to help secure the bill’s timely passage before Congress recesses for the year. The bill cleared a procedural vote in the Senate on December 19 with 73 votes, and now needs just one more majority vote for passage.

Representative Howitt said the Social Security Fairness Act would amend federal law by eliminating the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset, both of which have adversely impacted Social Security benefits for numerous retirees and their families.

“The Social Security Fairness Act seeks to address a serious inequity in current federal law that has resulted in significantly reduced Social Security benefits for millions of public service employees,” the caucus wrote. “In addition to restoring Social Security payments to these individuals, this legislation would also prevent reductions in benefits for their surviving spouses.”

The U.S. House of Representatives previously voted overwhelmingly to pass the Social Security Fairness Act on a vote of 327-75. In writing to Senators Warren and Markey to advocate for the bill’s passage, the House Republican Caucus noted that “this far-reaching legislation … will truly make a positive difference in many of our constituents’ lives” by “providing them with enhanced financial security during their golden years.”

“We stand in solidarity with the many police, firefighters, teachers and other dedicated public employees who will benefit from the passage of the Social Security Fairness Act. Time is of the essence, and it is imperative that the Senate act quickly to repeal the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset to assist our hard-working public service workers in local, state and federal government.”

Representative Steven S. Howitt Supports Health Care Market Review Legislation to Preserve Patient Care in Massachusetts

Reform bill seeks to address issues raised by Steward bankruptcy filing

Boston – State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R-Seekonk) is backing a comprehensive hospital oversight reform bill to preserve patient care and impose safeguards to prevent a repeat of the Steward Health Care bankruptcy crisis.

House Bill 5159, An Act enhancing the market review process, calls for improved reporting requirements, additional financial statement disclosures, and expanded health care market oversight powers for the Attorney General.

Current law requires hospitals to provide the Department of Public Health (DPH) with 90 days’ notice prior to the closure of the hospital or the discontinuation of any essential health services at the facility, to be followed by a public hearing by DPH. Representative Howitt noted the conference committee report expands the current law by authorizing DPH to seek an impact analysis of a closure of a hospital or any essential health service from the Health Policy Commission (HPC).

Representative Howitt said that in addition to these changes, the bill adjusts the Determination of Need (DON) process by expanding the factors that DPH must consider in its review of an application for a DON certificate. This includes relevant data from the Center for Health Information and Analysis (CHIA) and the HPC, including any cost market impact review report; the state’s cost containment goals; impact on patients and the surrounding healthcare providers; and impact on residents.

To read full transcripts of these articles, go to www.reportertoday.com

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