December 2019 Rehoboth Reporter

The Rehoboth

Reporter

DECEMBER 2019 Volume 31, no. 12

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2 The Reporter December 2019

December 2019 The Reporter

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4 The Reporter December 2019

The Rehoboth/Seekonk

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

Last Minute News Updates State Takes Over Dighton-Rehoboth School District

By Joe Siegel The Department of Elementary and Sec- since (I became Superintendent) there have ondary Education (DESE) assumed control been no layoffs to the Town of Rehoboth’s of the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School municipal workers and the town has been District on December 1. in better financial shape over the past five In a November 4 letter to School Super- years then they portend to be.” intendent Anthony Azar, school committee Azar noted the Rehoboth finance comchairperson Katherine Cooper, Rehoboth mittee failed to include school committee selectmen chairman Gerry Schwall, and members in their discussions, which reDighton selectmen chairman Kenneth Pa- sulted in the budget turmoil. checo, DESE’s associate commissioner “As they know, we have always gone Jay Sullivan had warned if a budget was into town meeting with a united front,” Azar not accepted before December 1, DESE said. “That unfortunately crumbled pretty “shall establish a budget for the year and quickly due to the town warrant being writshall assume fiscal oversight of the district.” ten by the Rehoboth (board of selectmen) “Once the department sets the final dis- and the Finance Committee not providing trict budget for the year, the treasurer of the the town voters a chance to vote on our regional school district must calculate and assessment number to the district. More certify to the member municipalities their importantly the wording of the town warrespective assessments based on the statu- rant was disingenuous in that it painted the tory method,” Sullivan wrote. “The member school district as one that was seeking an communities will be obligated to appropriate another override. This wording of the town their respective assessments based on this warrant absolutely scared voters into thinkbudget and make payments to the regional ing taxes would be increased.” school district consistent with the payment In a November 13 letter to DESE, Reschedule outlined in the regional school hoboth selectmen chairman Gerry Schwall district agreement. This budget and the cited “the ever-increasing and unsustainable department’s fiscal oversight will remain in financial demands” from the school district. place until the end of the fiscal year or until Last August, selectmen had reached a the member towns have approved a budget compromise with the school committee. In for the subsequent fiscal year, whichever is exchange for giving the school department later. It is important to note that this budget an additional $330,000 for the 2020 budget, may be different than the interim “1/12th selectmen had proposed $214,000 in cuts budget” under which the district is currently to town departments. Voters rejected the operating.” revised FY20 budget at the October 29 Members of the Dighton-Rehoboth town meeting and the district-wide meeting school committee criticized the Rehoboth scheduled for November 2 was cancelled. board of selectmen and the finance com- The Rehoboth and Dighton boards of selectmittee for underfunding the 2020 budget. men had met on October 30 for the purpose “The Board of Selectmen and Finance of selecting a moderator for the tent meeting.

Committee are not being realistic to at- When they reviewed the warrant drafted by tempt to force the School Committee’s ac- the school committee, Schwall realized the ceptance of a negative one percent budget budget figure was inaccurate. The warrant and $690,000 in cuts from the current 1/12 article for the “tent” meeting called for the budget,” Cooper wrote in a letter to DESE. appropriation of $29 million for the school Cooper noted the original request was a budget. Dighton was responsible for $10. 5 2.32 percent increase. The district reduced million and Rehoboth was responsible for their request from $577,000 over the prior $19.3 million. The total school budget was fiscal year’s budget to $289,000 over. $45 million. Cooper noted that Peter Hooger“We felt we had produced a reasonable zeil, Schwall’s choice for moderator, would budget at 2.32 percent considering the not allow an amendment to include the full sports, activities, and contract increases budget number at the district-wide meeting. caused a $1.2 million increase,” Cooper “In each such case, the District could continued. have chosen to accept such appropriation The letter was signed by every school and avoid losing control over the schools’ committee member except for George Solas management, and, in each such case, the and Richard Barrett, both from Rehoboth.

District refused to do so, opting instead for “I challenge you to find any school dis- expensive and adversarial mechanisms that, trict with a lower percent increase,” School at best would have netted a purely increSuperintendent Anthony Azar said. “Also, mental increase in funding,” Schwall added.

More information has come in since press time.

See updated articles on our Facebook page and at www.reportertoday.com.

December 2019 The Reporter

On the Cover:

Wishing all of our loyal readers and advertisers a

D-R Seniors celebrate winning the trophy after beating Seekonk on Thanksgiving

beautiful holiday season and a new year of peace and happiness!

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from The Reporter

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Rehoboth Animal Shelter News

Inside This Issue Business Directory......................92 Church News/Events..................27 Classifieds...............................86 Club Announcements.................50 Events........................................41 Ready to go home! Left: Fall & Spring Right: Winter There has been something of an influx of kittens this month. From Summer Street, we have a little calico, Fall, and her two brothers, Winter (grey tiger) and Spring (grey and white). They were born in mid-late September and are lively and healthy-looking. They will have had their first shots by the time this

is published. The kittens’ mother was taking good care of them until she disappeared and they were brought to the shelter. They are a little shy but sweet and are getting plenty of practice being petted.

Please call 508-252-5421, ext. 126 or e-mail a.ruscetta@comcast.net.

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Food & Dining.............................90 Holiday Guide............................27 Letters to the Editor.......................6 Library......................................

Seekonk......................61

Blanding.......................60

Obituaries................................87 People.................................46 Rehoboth COA...........................80 Rehoboth Ramblings.................54 Rehoboth Town News................10 Rehoboth Veterans Service........44 Scouts...................................52 School News...............................64 Seekonk Human Services..........83 Seekonk Town News...................23 Sports......................................74 State House................................57

5

6 The Reporter December 2019

Letters to the Editor...

The letters in this section and opinion articles do not reflect the views of the staff of The Rehoboth Reporter. It is not our intent to take sides on any issues, but to present all

arguments from all points of view. If your point of view is not represented on an issue, it is only because you have not voiced your opinion. Let us hear from YOU!

Communication

Gerry, both you and Mike Deigan and other contributors should be commended for the excellent, thorough, complete report regarding Rehoboth’s report of fiscal responsibility to the school/state officials. My wish at this point would be to have our school system and Mr. Azar be as transparent with reporting as Rehoboth has been, as defined within the report. Nice job!!

Philip Sharp, Rehoboth

Ken Dias Chicken Barbecue Fundraiser Thank You

For those of you who don’t know, back on April 13 I had a brain aneurysm and was rushed to the hospital where I suffered a stroke the following week. I have had a hard time since, trying to get back to normal. I remained at RI Hospital until June 6th before I was allowed home. I am now burdened with a lot of therapy and medications. I just found out that on Dec. 3 they are going to redo my brain surgery because of blood leaking into the area, so we start over again. Many family and friends attended the fundraiser that raised enough money to help me get through the procedure and therapies.

I want to thank everyone from the bottom of my heart. All of you that attended, helped or donated to the cause. You mean the world to me and have greatly reduced the stress in my life. I love you all. Never underestimate how much you many need people to help you get through a bad time in your life. This is a wonderful community we live in because of people like you.

Thank you so much, I hope I can help you someday.

Sincerely, Ken Dias

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Please Note:

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

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

Email: news@rehobothreporter.com

December 2019 The Reporter

7

Is Anyone Listening in Seekonk?

Town Meeting was held on Monday, November 18, 2019 at the Seekonk High School. Thanks to those who took the time to be in attendance, for important financial spending scheduled ahead for our community. Please bear in mind that less than 2% of registered voters (tax paying residents) made decisions that will ultimately cost residents more than two million dollars. Our current government system does not accurately reflect the will of the town.

Town Administration provided current balances of all the resources available to draw from along with the pending action to be voted on that evening. These balances are crucial for deciding the source of funding per project and what shall remain with affirmative votes. Keep this in mind, however, as this article moves forward, spending does not have to occur “just because the money is there.”

Let me start by stating that Article #1- “is to receive the reports of Town Officers, or Committees, if any and act thereon, or take any action relative thereto.” In the simplest terms it means to inform the town meeting audience the current standing of projects, spending updates and forward planning.

The problem is, not every Committee working with a budget, whether it is from a debt exclusion, taxpayer dollars/free cash, grants received, or any other means when funding is raised is reported.

Many times, Committees come before Town Meeting and ask for a small amount of money through a warrant article and fail to inform us that they may return to ask for more. Substantially more.

Case in point, Article #4-asked for and received $200,000 from Free Cash for engineering services for the design, plans specifications and estimates of proposed addition of a turf athletic field and renovations including demolition and site preparation and all other incidental and related costs. In Layman’s terms this means

explore, design and build a turf athletic field known to most of us seniors as “the football field” with further renovations to the complex at the High School.

Why didn’t the Superintendent of Schools and the Chairperson of the School Committee provide information associated with the “estimated” cost and scope of the project. They were asked if they had a comparison cost analysis of turf vs natural grass. They were asked about potential safety issues to athletes. Injuries such as foot, ankle, knee and hip injuries specifically. For each of these very important subjects the answer was no. They also did not offer the estimated final price tag amounting to approximately $1.7 to $1.9 million dollars. This information was drawn out by an audience member, for whom if it weren’t asked, it wouldn’t be offered. Voters must be informed with more than “do it for the children” or “to compete at a championship level.” More information was required and not provided yet it was spent “just because the money is there”.

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8 The Reporter December 2019 Here is some additional information regarding artificial turf fields.

While grass may cause common injuries such as ankle sprains, but turf fields are likely to cause more serious injuries like ACL, MCL issues and muscle tears. When compared with artificial turf on playing fields, natural grass provides good traction, which, is better than the great traction provided by artificial turf which means the turf has no ‘give’. The super traction on artificial turf can cause injury. A recent survey by the National Football League Players Association found that a majority of NFL players favored natural grass over artificial turf; 82 percent said they thought artificial turf triggers more injuries than natural grass does.

The Ecological Benefits of Natural Grass • A 2,500 square ft. field of natural grass can release enough oxygen for a family of four for an entire year.

• Natural grass absorbs carbon dioxide, which is extremely important when considering the effects of natural vs. artificial grass on global warming.

• Beneficial organisms reside in natural grass and topsoil; these organisms efficiently break down and recycle both inorganic and organic elements which land on the grass.

• Natural grass filters rainwater before it flows into the groundwater.

• Natural grass is much cooler than artificial turf, asphalt, cement or bare dirt.

• Most people prefer the smell and appearance of natural grass.

• Natural grass repairs and regenerates itself; artificial turf requires expensive repair by specialty contractors.

• Removing and disposing of artificial turf is both difficult and expensive. End-of-life disposal costs for natural grass is a tiny fraction of the cost for artificial turf.

• Natural grass prevents soil erosion.

• When interviewed, a whopping 96 percent of NFL players believed artificial turf leads to more sore muscles and fatigue

than natural grass, and 91 percent believed artificial turf is much more likely to contribute to a serious injury than natural grass.

• A recent study found the average temperature of artificial turf between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. was 117 degrees with a high of 157 degrees. In stark contrast, natural grass had an average temperature of 78.19 degrees with a high of 88.5 degrees under the same conditions.

• Over a period of eight years, when installation and maintenance costs are combined, natural grass is the more affordable choice, according to a study done by Springfield College.

FIFA STUDY: Professional athletes have consistently shown a preference for playing on real grass. FIFA commissioned an 18-month study to gauge elite soccer players’ attitudes towards grass vs. artificial turf.

In total, responses from 1129 players from 44 different countries were analyzed. The majority of players expressed a strong preference for the use of Natural Turf fields over alternatives such as Artificial Turf. According to the study, approximately three-quarters of players felt that all top-level games should be played on grass.

We need to study all the facts before spending more than two million dollars on artificial turf. In talking with several communities and colleges that have gone the route of artificial turf, none of them was completely satisfied. Complaints ranged from the upkeep, cost to repair and more importantly player complaints. No matter how far technology has come, there is simply no substitute for green, healthy, fragrant natural grass.

Moving on to the new playground. Article #16 was submitted by the Board of Selectmen and its purpose was to spend $357,000.00 for recreational use, specifically the design, construction and furnishing of a playground to be located at Town Hall. The Community Preservation Committee (CPC) generously gave $300,000 from the funds collected on an annual basis through a percentage of your tax dollar.

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December 2019 The Reporter CPC is regulated through state law and funding use must be clearly defined. Prior to voting on this article, the Chairman of CPC never disclosed the balances available to the audience. It had to be asked for by an audience member. Information needed to make a sound decision and once again had to be drawn out of a town official. Thankfully the Finance Director provided what was needed. What followed was why the CPC isn’t providing the entire amount. Granted, $300,000 from undesignated funds that total $1,182.429.22. The $300,000 is generous. Yet the response from the chairman to the question why didn’t they fund the full amount was not acceptable. He said, “Because we don’t want to” and there are “other projects in the pipeline.” He also said, “why should we spend it just because it’s there?” None of those projects or their estimated value was presented to justify this statement but “let’s do this for the children.” The remaining funds in the amount of $57,000 came from the town’s checking account also known as Free Cash.” Why? Because it was there.

Leaders responsible for funding projects of any kind need to provide the voters with more information. The lack of information is just not acceptable. Something is wrong when residents need to draw information out.

The last point to be made about Town Meeting is Article #15-adding to the overlay district. The basis of the Article wasn’t a problem and quite understandable. The bigger question is legality.

The audience was informed the Planning Board, who submitted the article, met to vote the recommendation. They were informed that (3) members of the Board met and informed the Moderator of their decision. Through the Moderator the question was asked when was this meeting posted? The response from Counsel was typical legal speak in that she said the AG Office approves of meetings prior to vote the same night as Town Meeting. She misled us, as the AG office states that it’s OPINION is to allow for such meetings.

However, if argued in court, do you really think that a judge would allow for two critical meetings to go on simultaneously without proper notification and input from the public? I doubt it. There are many instances that committees meet PRIOR to town meeting, but those meetings, if needed, are posted 48 hours in advance and are open to the public.

The problem this time is no one confirms a legal posting.

Through the Moderator the question was asked about the (3) members who allegedly voted. Again, Counsel slid past the question deferring to her previous statement about the AG Office. Bottom line, questions asked, and information not properly provided. The Open Meeting Law appears to have been violated and Counsel had no answer. Guess what? We paid for her services too.

The Article failed through no fault of the Voters, but instead Leaders and Town Counsel.

To those who took the time to come to listen and vote again, thank you. Leaders need to be better prepared for an explanation of spending tax dollars and making changes to our community.

Without proper information, Voters have the right to say “no” even if the item in question is for children because spending money just because it’s there is just NOT acceptable.

Again, it is ethically wrong that less than 2%, of voting residents make decisions that impact all of us. That it isn’t the fault of elected and appointed leaders that this happens is a weak argument. When elected officials want to drum up support and attendance for a town meeting they will have police make phone calls alerting people to a town meeting, provide bus service, child care service, etc. to ensure a larger attendance. The more people, the more opinions and information that can be shared and considered.

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10 The Reporter December 2019

Rehoboth Town News Hello All ~ I hope you all enjoyed a wonderful Thanksgiving with family and friends.

I wish you all a wonderful and safe holiday season.

January each year. In addition to the name, address, telephone number, date of birth, occupation, veteran status, and number of dogs, the form includes a section for school information required by the school department. Please Note: a section for e-mail addresses and cell phone numbers on your 2020 Town Census forms. If you no longer have a home phone and use a cell phone, please let us Annual Town Census know your new number so we can update our records ~ thank you.

Our Annual Town Census Forms for year Attention: This year, in addition to receiving the 2020 Rehoboth 2020 will be mailed to all households in ReTown Census in January, there will also be a 2020 Federal Census, hoboth during the first week of January. The which will be mailed to you in March, by the U.S. Census Bureau.

Laura Schwall Board of Registrars is required to conduct This census (2020 Federal Census) is performed every 10 years.

Town Clerk an annual listing of residents as of the first of The 2020 United States Census is separate from the “annual street listing” or Rehoboth Official Town Census, which you will receive in January with your 2020 Town Calendar.

The 2020 Town of Rehoboth yearly census is used to confirm your residency and keep your voter registration status up to date.

DR. FRANK CASARELLA & DR. LURI LEE The 2020 US Census count will be used to ensure that Rehoboth and Massachusetts receive their fair share of Federal money and political representation for the next 10 years. Representation in the United States Congress and the Electoral College is based on United State Census responses.

Therefore, it is important to return both your 2020 rehoboth town census and the united states census in 2020.

Please return both your 2020 Census forms this year ~ thank you!

As a reminder, failure to return the completed Town census form may result in voters being placed on an “inactive” voting list or being removed from the voting list. Please do not let this happen to you, especially in a Presidential Election year – please return your census as soon as you receive it in January. Simply review the pre-printed Census Form, make corrections, sign it, and return it no later than January 31st. You can OUR NAME HAS CHANGED – BUT IT’S STILL US! choose to return the Census Form via the DR. FRANK CASARELLA, DMD IS NOW SEEKONK DENTAL U.S. Postal Service, utilize the Census drop off boxes at Town Hall, Blanding Library, Bristol County Savings Bank, or the Senior Center. Additionally, you may scan your signed and completed census forms and email them to TownClerk@RehobothMA. GOV. We look forward to hearing from you in January.

New residents may receive blank forms, which they are asked to complete and return. If you do not receive a Census Form, please contact the Town Clerk’s Office 508252-6502 X-3110 or X-3109. Blank Census forms are also available on the town website @ http://www.town.rehoboth.ma.us/townDR. FRANK CASARELLA DR. LURI LEE clerk/pages/census-information Results of the Town Census are used to NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS prove residency for a variety of reasons. The INTEREST-FREE FINANCING • EVENING HOURS AVAILABLE data is also used for state college entrance applications, veterans’ benefits, amending Like us on Facebook @SeekonkDental 1484 NEWMAN AVE. SEEKONK, MA and establishing birth records, locating for fun practice updates, including our Patient missing persons, establishing precinct lines, Referral Giveaways, plus healthy teeth tips!

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December 2019 The Reporter predicting future school enrollment, state and federal funding to the town, police and fire protection, updating the voting list, and other legal purposes. Please return your town census as soon as possible; Town Census is due date 1-31-2020 ~ thank you.

For the convenience of dog owners, we will again include with the 2020 Census, an application for the 2020 Dog License(s). This gives dog owners the opportunity to license their dogs well before the annual April 1st due date should they want to license their dogs early. Dog license applications must be accompanied by a current rabies certificate (with a vaccination date of May 1, 2020 or later) and proof of spay or neuter, unless we already have it on file in the Clerk’s Office (if applying for the $10 licensing fee). If you are unsure, please give the office a call and we can let you know what we have in our database. Dog owners should note that the license(s) will not be returned unless a stamped, self-addressed envelope is included (the current postage will be printed on the dog license application). For your information, Seekonk and Rehoboth will be teaming up again for our Annual Rabies Vaccination Clinic.

For scheduling purposes, the Rabies Clinic date will be Saturday, March 14th, 2020. Our Seventh Annual Rabies Clinic will be held at the Seekonk Highway Department (corner of Route 44 & Lake Street) from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 Noon. Details will be printed in the 2020 Town Census mailer.

If you are returning your dog tag application, as well as your census forms, residents are asked to return their completed forms via mail, e-mail, or place their form in one of the “Census” containers located at the drop off locations mentioned earlier in this article.

The containers will remain at these locations through the end of January for your convenience.

NOTE: 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.

Annual Town Election – April 7, 2020

The Annual Town Election for the Town of Rehoboth will be held on Tuesday, April 7, 2020 with the polls open from 7 am to 8 pm.

All three precincts will be open.

For those who do not participate in a political party’s caucus process, nomination papers will be available as of January 2, 2020 for any registered voter in Rehoboth wishing to run for election on the Town ballot. The nomination papers may be picked up by prospective candidates at the Town Clerk’s office and must be returned, signed by a minimum of 50* registered Rehoboth voters, to the Board of Registrars at the Town Clerk’s Office (148 Peck Street) by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, February 18th. * The signature minimum changes after each gubernatorial election as per MGL Chapter 53 – Section 6. The 11-6-18 election changed our minimum signature requirement for nomination papers from 38 to 50 (1% of the entire votes cast for governor at the preceding biennial state election ~ 5,154 x 1% = 52 ~ MGL 53:6 = maximum of 50 signatures for nominations of town office or regional district school elected positions).

Positions to be elected on the ballot for 2020 are Moderator (one for 1 year), Selectmen (two positions for 3 years), Tax Collector (one for 3 years), Assessor (one for 3 years), School Committee (two for 3 years), Planning Board (one for 5 years), Park Commission (one for 5 years), Housing Authority (one for 5 years), and Water Commissioner (two for 3 years).

The final voter registration date, to be eligible to vote in the Annual Town Election, is scheduled for Wednesday, March 18th from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Town Clerk’s Office.

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/Voterreg-mail-in.pdf continued on next page...

11

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12 The Reporter December 2019

Absentee 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/ English-Absentee-Ballot-Application.pdf . An absentee ballot may only be obtained by written request and with the voter’s original signature. Filing deadline for an absentee ballot request for the April Annual Town Election is 5:00 p.m. on Monday, April 6, 2020.

Early Voting in 2020

2020 is going to be a busy election year! Below please find a list of Election and Town Meeting dates for 2020. Reminder, we changed our bylaws in 2019; therefore, Town Elections and Town Meetings will now be held on Tuesdays, in line with all State/Federal Elections.

During 2020, we will have several Early Voting Sessions (State Legislature has voted to approve Early Voting for three elections; however, State Elections has not confirmed Presidential Primary or State Primary Early Voting Sessions – I will update the Early Voting dates in my Reporter article and on the Town website when “Official” word comes from the State). Here are the potential Early Voting Periods: Dates for Early Voting

Date of Actual Election

Type of Election

February 24 – February 28

Tuesday, March 3, 2020

Presidential Primary Election

August 24 – August 28

Tuesday, September 1, 2020

State Primary Election

October 19 – October 30

Tuesday, November 3, 2020

Presidential & State Election

Urgent Alerts – News and Announcements

Over the past few months, there has been a lot of important information that was provided to those residents who have signed up for the Town’s “Urgent Alerts” and “Subscribe to News”. The Town’s “Official” notification site is Rehoboth’s town website @ www.town.rehoboth.ma.us . If important information needs to get to the residents of the Town, we use the front page of the Town’s website; either under “News and Announcements” or “Urgent Alerts” to notify our residents. Once the information is posted to the website, we send those residents, who have “Subscribed to News”, an e-mail alerting them of the updated important information. Also, on the front of the Town website is a current listing of all public meetings under the “Meetings” tab, which is next to the “News” tab, in the center of the Town’s homepage. If you would like to be notified of upcoming meetings, urgent alerts, or news and announcements posted on the Town website, simply click on the “Subscribe to News” under the “Citizen Action Center” on the left side of the home page ( www. town.rehoboth.ma.us ) and complete all the requested information. For step-by-step directions on how to subscribe, please either click on “How to Subscribe to News & Alerts” under “Subscribe to News” in the “Citizen Action Center” or follow this link: https://www.town.rehoboth.ma.us/ sites/rehobothma/files/uploads/rehobothsubscribenews-directions.pdf Please do not rely solely on social media or rumors regarding important Town matters. All “Official” Town of Rehoboth alerts, meetings, and news are posted on the Town Website and sent to all subscribers to News and Alerts via the e-mail address they provide. Please “be in the know” by signing up for Subscribe to News & Alerts ~ thank you.

Town Offices Closed

The Town Offices will be closed on Tuesday, December 24th and Wednesday, December 25th, 2020, in observance of the Christmas Holiday. Offices will also close at Noon (12:00 p.m.) on Tuesday, December 31st due to New Year’s Eve. Lynn and I would like to wish you all a safe, happy, and healthy holiday season!

We wish peace and prosperity to all Rehoboth residents for the New Year. It is truly an honor to serve as your Town Clerk. Thank you for a wonderful year and past six years!

Sincerely, Laura & Lynn

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December 2019 The Reporter

Letter from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education

Re: Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District – Fiscal Oversight pursuant to M.G.L. c. 71, § 16B and 603 CMR 41.07 Dear Dr. Azar, Mrs. Cooper, Mr. Pacheco and Mr. Schwall: We are aware that your constituents recently voted against the school committee’s latest proposed FY20 budget at the Rehoboth Town meeting on October 29, 2019, and that the district-wide meeting November 2, 2019 was canceled. In accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 71, § 16B and 603 CMR 41.07, in the event a local budget is not adopted by December 1, 2019, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (Department) shall establish a budget for the year and shall assume fiscal oversight of the district.

Once the Department sets the final district budget for the year, the treasurer of the regional school district must calculate and certify to the member municipalities their respective assessments based on the statutory method. The member communities will be obligated to appropriate their respective assessments based on this budget and make payments to the regional school district consistent with the payment schedule outlined in the regional district agreement. This budget and Department’s fiscal oversight will remain in place until the end of the fiscal year or until the member towns have approved a budget for the subsequent fiscal year, whichever is later. It is important to note that this budget may be different than the interim “1/12th budget” under which the district is currently operating.

In preparation for the establishment of this fiscal budget for FY20, the Department seeks your input. Accordingly, we request that you provide the Department with any information you or your constituents wish the Commissioner to consider in setting this budget. Please include information on other sources of town or district revenue that may be available to support the school committee budget, information on the district’s outstanding debt and expenditures and how that compares to prior years, and any other information you believe is relevant to the Commissioner’s determination of on the final budget for the year. Please send this information no later than 5 p.m. on Monday, November 18, 2019 by email to: Christine Lynch at clunch@doe.mass. edu, and Michelle Griffin at mgriffin@doe. mass.edu.

Please contact Ms. Lynch or Ms. Griffin if you have any questions.

Sincerely, Jay Sullivan Associate Commissioner

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Rehoboth Christmas Gifts For Kids will be starting October 1, 2019 for the Christmas Season Project for Rehoboth children. The ages will be new-born to high school. We will start collecting names and addresses for gifts on October 1 to November 10 and hope to start passing the gifts out December 8 to December 18. This will go according to how the gifts come in from our special friends who are donating. We need a written list for all requests (no exceptions) from parents, grandparents or guardians of children. Please mail the list to Rehoboth Christmas Giving Project (attention Steve Martin) Cowboy Country - 127 Martin Street, Rehoboth, Mass. 02769.

We need the child’s first name, sex, age, size of clothing, list of toys or games. We are trying to stay away from all electronic gifts as it is impossible to replace them if broken or damaged.

We do not have funds to cover the replacement item. Please call if you need more information 508-252-3263. Parent’s name or guardian’s name of child MUST be included, address and telephone number are required A.S.A.P. God Bless you and your families.

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The Reporter December 2019

Response from the Rehoboth Board of Selectmen Dear Ms. Lynch and Ms. Griffin, On November 6, 2019 the Rehoboth Board of Selectmen received a letter from Associate Commissioner Jay Sullivan informing us of the intention of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (Department) to assume fiscal oversight of the DightonRehoboth Regional School District effective December 1, 2019 and for the remainder of the fiscal year. Voting to accept the appropriation would constitute establishment of a FY20 budget; and would replace the 1/12 budget as adopted by the Department. Additionally, Associate Commissioner Sullivan’s letter requested the Member Towns, the School Committee, the District Administration, and constituents forward input to be considered in establishing the final FY20 budget. This letter represents the position of the Rehoboth Board of Selectmen. Together with the letter and analysis authored

by Rehoboth Finance Committee Chairman Michael Deignan, this letter constitutes the official response on the part of the Town of Rehoboth (Town). Additionally, on November 7 the Town posted the Associate Commissioner’s letter to the Town’s website and on November 12, 2019 we read the letter into the record during the Board of Selectmen’s Meeting. We encouraged constituents to provide input directly to the Department; regardless of what position they were advocating.

Although FINCOM Chairman Deignan and I have worked independently on our responses; we have discussed coordinating the Town’s response to minimize occurrences of repetition. Chairman Deignan is a highly respected town official, having served on the Finance Committee since 2009 and as the Chair since 2012. Mr. Deignan’s narrative contains an accurate and compelling case which demonstrates Rehoboth’s support of the School District over the years. It also chronicles the ever-increasing and unsustainable financial demands emanating from the School District.

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Rehoboth prides itself on being recognized as the Birthplace of Public Education in North America. We maintain a long and proud tradition of supporting our children, our teachers, and our schools.

The issues we are experiencing in recent years in no way should paint the taxpayers of our Town as “anti-school” as some have publicly stated. We believe in a well-rounded educational experience for our children which will prepare them for future success.

To that end, the Rehoboth Town Meeting has twice approved a FY 2020 budget of $18,970,859. This budget represented a substantial increase over FY2019 and would have allowed the District to fund its chosen academic programs along with robust extracurricular and athletic programs. In each such case, the District could have chosen to accept such appropriation and avoid losing control over the schools’ management, and , in each such case, the District refused to do so, opting instead for expensive and adversarial mechanisms that, at best would have netted a purely incremental increase in funding.

At this juncture, while the Board of Selectmen and residents continue to support the local schools, the taxpayers are demanding accountability on the part of the School Committee and the District Administration. Our constituents are more than willing to fund the District at ever-increasing levels but are demanding transparency and responsibility for the manner in which the budgets are formulated, the assessments are calculated, and how the Administration spends the funds entrusted to the District.

Mutual respect and trust are essential to secure the support of the voters. I believe we can all agree the cornerstone upon which mutual respect and trust is built is communication and transparency. Historically this has been the trademark of both the Town and the School District. Traditionally, the School Committee would take several meetings to review each line of each budget presented to them. The administrators from each school would participate in the discussions to answer questions from the Committee or the public. All meetings were open to the public and trust between the School Committee and voter was high. The Towns were not always able to fully fund the District’s requested amount; however, reasonable dialogue and compromise ensued when we found ourselves in that position. There was a genuine understanding of each other’s position and a solution was ultimately identified; although it wasn’t always easy. In some years Town employee salaries and town services were reduced to meet the appropriation approved at Town Meeting. The net result was a regional school with a full range of services and a sterling reputation for both academics and extracurriculars Unfortunately, over the past few years the open and transparent approach has been replaced by budget subcommittees which meet out of the public’s eye. Discussions among the full Committee are conducted at a high level, lack specific line item detail, and appear to be placed towards the back of School Committee meeting agendas, making it difficult for members of the public to be present to ask questions. Of the questions that do make it before the Committee, many go unanswered beyond “We’ll need to look into that and get back to you”. Most times the questions remain publicly unanswered. This approach has led to frustration and a crisis of confidence of both the School Committee and the Superintendent.

It has also led to massive mistrust of the process. Nevertheless, due in part to the diligence of the FINCOM and Board of Selectmen, we have been able to present a budget to Town Meeting that is entirely supportive of the District and has not resulted in any measureable loss of services. As detailed by Mr. Deignan, the Town has also supported overrides for the District budget.

Several years ago the Town adopted zero-based budgeting methodology to create budgets for town departments. Each department started with a budget of zero dollars and built the requested appropriation by identifying the costs associated with the departmental mission and plan for the upcoming year. This is

December 2019 The Reporter the traditional approach taken in the private sector and provides an opportunity to discuss specifics rather than generalities. For example, if the total cost of three desired programs is $240,000 ($80,000 each after identifying all the required elements), and funding is approved for only $160,000 then the discussion focuses on which program will not move forward, rather than the traditional “we need to cut $80,000 from our budget”. Zero-based budgeting creates dialogue, expectations, and accountability. It also identifies shifting priorities, which enables resources to be moved out of certain areas and into areas of higher priority. The Finance Committee liaison actively participates in the preparation of each department’s budget before the budget is brought before the Board of Selectmen for consideration and approval before the full Finance Committee votes on the final recommendation to be placed before the voters.

We conduct these meetings in open session and review the line by line detail of each department’s budget. The formal process begins in January and concludes in April.

Offers to assist the School District Administration with implementation of zero-based budgeting have been extended; however, the District has refused to consider this budgeting approach; opting for the traditional “start with last year and add-on” philosophy. While we are appreciative with a budgeting philosophy that contemplates level services, and while a transparent process may provide fruitful results in other contexts, this approach in the D-R District has led to bloated budgets and finger pointing when the funding proposals have not matched the demand. Inevitably what has followed is not constructive dialogue but, rather, a series of provocative statements and press releases from the Administration and School Committee condemning the taxpayers of Rehoboth for “not paying their fair share” and how “drastic cuts will need to be made to the budget”.

This rhetoric is unproductive and divisive; especially when one considers the target of these accusations is the community which already is responsible for almost double the other member Town’s net minimum; plus an additional $3.4 million for a total appropriation that equals 64% of Rehoboth’s total revenue.

15

Obviously, this year’s budget process has been particularly difficult, as evidenced by the need for the Commissioner to step in.

In preparation for the Annual Town Meeting, the School Committee approved a $45.4 million budget to fund the Administration’s plan for the FY20 Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District. After accounting for State reimbursements and other sources of revenue received by the District, the School Committee voted assessments to Dighton and Rehoboth totaling $30,284,924. Of that total, Rehoboth was assessed $19,529,656 and Dighton was assessed $10,755,268. The total amount assessed to Rehoboth increased $1.6 million over FY19. (Please note: the additional $1.6 million in the FY20 assessment was in addition to the FY19 increase of $2.1 million to the District’s funding as approved via a Proposition 2 ½ override vote by the Rehoboth taxpayers.)

A record breaking 699-registered voters attended the May 28, 2019 meeting where an overwhelming majority of those assembled rejected the School Committee’s assessment to Rehoboth in favor of the Finance Committee’s recommendation of $18,970,859, which is slightly over $1.0 million more than last year and $3.4 million more than the Town is required to pay under the State Minimum Net School Spending mandate. It is the Board of Selectmen’s position that this approved budget would have been satisfactory to deliver top-tier educational services to District students.

The School Committee was not satisfied with the voted increased contribution of more than $1.0 million over last year to fund the FY20 budget. A week after Rehoboth’s Annual Town Meeting, the Regional School Committee and the Administration met and spent several hours demeaning the Town of Rehoboth, its elected officials and its residents for failing to give into their demands. At the end of the meeting, the School Committee did not vote to accept the small decrease in desired funding, as would be permitted under Chapter 71. Nor did the District vote to assess a compromise continued on next page...

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The Reporter December 2019

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amount. Rather, the District ignored the will of the Rehoboth Town Meeting and voted to send a ‘new’ assessment to Rehoboth in the same amount as the previous assessment.

Earlier in this letter we referred to frustration and a crisis of confidence of both the School Committee and the Superintendent, which has led to massive mistrust of the process. Let me provide an example of why this is an accurate statement. At the May 2018 Annual Town Meeting, the Finance Committee, with the support of the Rehoboth Board of Selectmen, recommended funding Rehoboth’s assessment as voted by the School Committee. Since the requested appropriation far exceeded the Town’s ability to fund the assessment without a Proposition 2 ½ Override, Finance Chairman Deignan offered the following motion: “LET IT BE MOVED: That the Town accept the Report of the Finance Committee for the Fiscal Year 2019 Dighton Rehoboth Regional School Budget and Assessment and appropriate the sum of $15,842,799 as recommended by the Finance Committee set forth therein to defray the expenses of the Dighton Rehoboth Regional School District for the ensuing fiscal year as specified, and as funding thereof, to appropriate from Taxation the sum of $15,842,799. And further to appropriate an additional $2,115,992 such additional amount being contingent upon passage of a Proposition 2 ½ Override”.

Town Meeting approved and the subsequent override ballot vote passed by a significant margin. The District received the full appropriation they requested. In large part, the success of the override vote was due to the commitment by the School Committee and Administration that the override will “address the District’s operating needs for years to come.” These statements were repeatedly made to the same Town officials and voters who are now being told we are not paying our fair share and that last year’s override was not enough and the taxpayers must pay an additional $1.5 million this year. It must be noted the Finance Committee allocated the total amount of last year’s override ($2,115,992) to the District this year even though the Town was under no obligation to do so. This further demonstrates Rehoboth’s support of the School District.

Turning to the FY2020 budget, and upon information and belief, the Town has identified several instances of significant concern regarding the District’s calculation of individual budget lines and the transferring of expenses from one budget line item to another. For example, several budget line items have been identified as being funded in each of several years without any funds being expended for the intended purpose.

Perhaps of most concern are the movement of capital expense into the operating budget and the reallocation of certain costs out of individual school budgets and into the Central Office budget.

We believe both of these actions are inconsistent with the Regional Agreement and, given the allocations therein, operate to transfer costs onto the Rehoboth taxpayers.

The Regional Agreement states that each Town is responsible for 100% of the capital expenses incurred in the K-8 schools that are located in each Town (High School capital costs are apportioned).

Historically and in accordance with the Regional Agreement, capital projects were brought to Town Meeting as a separate article, debated, and voted on by those assembled. Some articles required additional funding through a capital or debt exclusion vote; others did not. Over the past several years, this process has been all but abandoned and replaced with capital projects being included in the operating budgets. The reason for concern is twofold: (1) the Regional Agreement requires each town to pay 100% the cost of its own K-8 capital; (2) this approach lacks transparency and results in an artificial and compounding expansion of the operating budget.

Rehoboth is responsible for over 64% of the combined operating assessment; hence Rehoboth is paying 64-cents of every misclassified $1.00 in the Dighton K-8 budget. Using the 3/1/19 line item budget provided by the District, we are concerned that the misclassification included approximate $380,000 in the Dighton K-8; $483,000 in the Rehoboth K-8; and $493,000 at the high school.

December 2019 The Reporter

17

Additionally, it appears the District has entered into capital leases for various capital projects for which the annual lease payment is now included in the operating budget. These actions were taken without approval of Town Meeting as is required by the Regional Agreement.

Also of concern is the reallocation of health insurance and retiree costs from the individual towns to the Central Office budget. At present, the Regional Agreement does not contemplate the Statutory Method for operating assessments and rather, for K-8 schools, allocates operating expenses to the host community. However, the District has chosen to ignore that aspect of the Agreement and, apparently, is allocating all operating costs in accordance with the Statutory Method. The District has not made any effort to approve the Alternative Method in the Regional Agreement, as approved by the two member Towns, even for the amount above the Required Minimum Contribution. This practice is uniquely to the financial detriment of Rehoboth. We would like to pursue the maximum amount of fidelity to the Regional Agreement but such pleas have fallen on deaf ears. continued on next page...

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The Reporter December 2019

None of the information we are sharing in this letter will come as a surprise to the Department. On April 16, 2019 a small group met with Deputy Commissioner of Education Wulfson and Assistant Secretary of Education Moreau in Rehoboth. This was a fact finding meeting of sorts, since those in attendance (including our State Senator and State Representative) needed factual answers to specific questions and guidance for moving forward. We also shared specific examples to support the growing concern of fiscal irregularities on the part of the Administration, and the lack of governance and oversight on the part of the School Committee.

Since that date, the Town has continued to request vital financial data from the District but the District has been generally noncompliant with such requests.

We strongly urge the Department to take a deep dive into the District’s proposed FY20 budget before establishing a final budget.

The Town does not take the position that the Department should confine itself to the FY2019 as a starting, as would be consistent with 1/12 budgeting under the statute. Indeed, having twice approved a budget of $18,970,859, the Town would be comfortable with a budget at this level. In all instances, however, we submit there exists sufficient funding to support all elements of the operating budget; once the misclassified capital expense is removed and funds from historically unused lines are reallocated. To this end, if feasible, we implore the District to vote to accept this approved budget amount and continue the operation of the local schools without Departmental intervention. If this is not feasible, we implore the Department to accept and implement a budget consistent with the amount approved by the Rehoboth Town Meeting.

Plainly, when the Department is charged with the duty to take over a school, the statute contemplates the implementation of a budget that would further the educational goals of the Commonwealth while also implementing any necessary austerity that is advisable. The budget approved by the Town is consistent with these requirements. While its implementation may not implement each and every expenditure on the District’s initial list of goals, all ommunity eachers essential functions will be funded. ederal redit nion Furthermore, implementation of a $18,970,859 budget will ensure that other services of Rehoboth residents will not be cut.

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Nos Falamos Portuguese Finally, should the District be unwilling or unable to retain control CLOSED Tuesday, Dec.25th & Tuesday, Jan.1st, 2019 of the District for FY2020, we believe that District taxpayers would Member East Providence Chamber of Commerce benefit from having the Department take active control of the fiscal management of the funds ultimately entrusted to the District by appointing a fiscal overseer who is completely without ties or interests to any of the District, the Town of Rehoboth or the Town of Endless Possibilities Dighton. We believe this is a necessary and essential step to restore fiscal discipline and 820 TAUNTON AVE(RT. 44) | SEEKONK, MA 02771 stability to the District and to ensure funding is prioritized to the classroom, the teachers, and the children.

The Town would welcome the opportunity to further engage with the Department before, and after, December 1st. We look forward to working with all affected stakeholders to ensure that fiscal stability, accountability, and performance returned to our District. Please contact us if any additional information or discussion is necessary for the Department to reach an informed decision.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the Town of Rehoboth, Gerald V. Schwall Chairman Rehoboth Board of Selectmen

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Please see reportertoday.com for the complete Finance Committee Report and up-to-date news covering the budget crisis.

December 2019 The Reporter

Rehoboth Land Trust News Preserving Land

Rehoboth Land Trust. What does that mean? Our mission is to save land by assisting landowners in putting their land under conservation restrictions which will keep the land from development and misuse. We then hold the restrictions and landowners trust us to monitor and enforce the type of restrictions that they wish to put in place for now and in the future.

The same trust is given to us when land is donated directly to our organization. We will protect the gift with all our assets and expertise.

While the Rehoboth Land Trust does not have funds to purchase land, Rehoboth is fortunate to have two other land preservation organizations with whom to work in preserving land in Rehoboth.

Some time ago the town fathers saw a need to preserve our agricultural land and natural resources. A Town vote in 2007 established the Agricultural and Natural Resources Preservation Council.

Funding was put in place and continued for at least one more year.

Meanwhile, several other towns were adopting a state program called the Community Preservation Act (CPA). Through a small surcharge on the local property tax which would be matched by state funds, towns could pursue much larger land preservation purchases for open space, as well as fund historic preservation, affordable housing and recreation. Rehoboth adopted the CPA in 2009 and has built funding for purchase of properties. The CPA committee attempts to leverage those funds with as many other sources as possible to further land preservation.

With all the organizations working together, we hope to continue to keep many of the special places and special character of Rehoboth available for future generations.

Join Us! To donate, visit our website, rehobothlandtrust.net or mail to P.O. Box 335, Rehoboth, MA 02769.

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The Reporter December 2019

Selectmen Slam School Committee in DESE Letter

By Joe Siegel

The Rehoboth Board of Selectmen are holding the DightonRehoboth School Committee responsible for the impending state takeover of the school district on December 1.

In a November 13 letter to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), Selectmen Chairman Gerry Schwall cites “the ever-increasing and unsustainable financial demands” from the school district.

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School Committee Chairperson Katherine Cooper disputes Schwall’s allegation: “the School Committee cannot accept a negative one percent budget, making an additional $690,000 in cuts from the 1/12 budget, and keep sports and activities as the Selectmen and Fincom claim.”

“I challenge you to find any school district with a lower percent increase,” School Superintendent Anthony Azar said. “Also, since (I became Superintendent) there have been no layoffs to the Town of Rehoboth’s municipal workers and the town has been in better financial shape over the past five years then they portend to be.”

In a November 4 letter to Azar, Cooper, Schwall, and Dighton selectmen chairman Kenneth Pacheco, DESE’s associate commissioner Jay Sullivan explained if a budget is not accepted before December 1, DESE “shall establish a budget for the year and shall assume fiscal oversight of the district.”

Cooper said voters at the May 28 town meeting were “never presented” with the School Committee’s assessment for Rehoboth, instead approving the finance committee’s recommendation of $18.9 million. The school department had been seeking an additional $558, 797 for their 2020 budget. The school committee opted to re-vote the assessments for the town meeting vote and continued to request their assessment number to be voted on, which prompted officials to hold a special town meeting in July. A special election to decide whether or not to override Proposition 2 and a ½ in order to fund the requested increase was approved by voters.

Last August, Selectmen had reached a compromise with the School Committee. In exchange for giving the school department an additional $330,000 for the 2020 budget, Selectmen had proposed $214,000 in cuts to town departments. Voters rejected the revised FY20 budget at the October 29 town meeting and the district-wide meeting scheduled for November 2 was cancelled. The Rehoboth and Dighton Boards of Selectmen had met on October 30 for the purpose of selecting a moderator for the tent meeting.

When they reviewed the warrant drafted by the School Committee, Schwall realized the budget figure was inaccurate. The warrant article for the “tent” meeting called for the appropriation of $29 million for the school budget. Dighton was responsible for $10. 5 million and Rehoboth was responsible for $19.3 million. The total school budget was $45 million. Cooper noted that Peter Hoogerzeil, Schwall’s choice for moderator, would not allow an amendment to include the full budget number at the district-wide meeting.

“In each such case, the District could have chosen to accept such appropriation and avoid losing control over the schools’ management, and, in each such case, the District refused to do so, opting instead for expensive and adversarial mechanisms that, at best would have netted a purely incremental increase in funding,” Schwall continued.

Cooper explained “that accepting a negative one percent budget is not feasible without a significant impact to the students’ education. We currently have a 0.66 percent budget increase request.”

Schwall also criticized the School Committee for conducting their budget discussions in private and for not answering questions about the budget at their meetings. “This approach has led to frustration and a crisis of confidence of both the School Committee and the Superintendent,” Schwall noted. “It has also led to massive mistrust of the process.”

Cooper calls Schwall’s accusation false. “The School Committee has publicly discussed the budget at every meeting this year, and answered questions for hundreds of people,” Cooper added.

“There are videos to prove this fact.”

Azar noted the Rehoboth Finance Committee failed to include School Committee members in their discussions, which resulted in the budget turmoil. “As they know, we have always gone into Town Meeting with a united front,” Azar said. “That unfortunately crumbled pretty quickly due to the town warrant being written by

December 2019 The Reporter the Rehoboth (Board of Selectmen) and the Finance Committee not providing the town voters a chance to vote on our assessment number to the district. More importantly, the wording of the town warrant was disingenuous in that it painted the school district as one that was seeking an another override. This wording of the town warrant absolutely scared voters into thinking taxes would be increased.”

Azar also notes the school district has been underfunded compared to past years, contrary to what Schwall and Finance Committee Chairman Michael Deignan have claimed.

Azar notes “the school budget was reduced (over the previous fiscal year) by $850,000”, and the majority of the $1 million (appropriated at a town meeting) was the debt exclusions for the Palmer River roof and windows and the Beckwith Middle School window replacement project and not for the operational budget.”

School Officials Claim Selectmen Underfunded Budget

By Joe Siegel Just days before a state takeover of the school district on December 1, Dighton-Rehoboth School Committee members are claiming the Rehoboth Board of Selectmen and Finance Committee underfunded the 2020 school budget.

In a November 18 letter to the state’s Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), committee chairperson Katherine Cooper said the district was working with a .66 percent increase. “The Board of Selectmen and Finance Committee are not being realistic to attempt to force the School Committee’s acceptance of a negative one percent budget and $690,000 in cuts from the current 1/12 budget,” Cooper wrote.

Cooper said the original request was a 2.32 percent increase.

The district reduced their request from $577,000 over the prior fiscal year’s budget to $289,000 over. “We felt we had produced a reasonable budget at 2.32 percent considering the sports, activities, and contract increases caused a $1.2 million increase,” Cooper continued. The letter was signed by every School Committee member except for George Solas and Richard Barrett, both from Rehoboth.

Rehoboth town officials are crying foul at the School Committee’s charges. “The School Committee letter demonstrates a lack of understanding of the Town Meeting process, a disregard of the facts, and a total lack of respect for the voice of the voters,” Schwall said via e-mail. In his letter to DESE, Schwall cited “the ever-increasing and unsustainable financial demands” from the school district.”

Voters rejected the FY20 budget at the October 29 Town Meeting and the district-wide meeting scheduled for November 2 was cancelled due to an incorrect budget figure on the warrant.

In a November 4 letter to School Superintendent Anthony Azar, Cooper, Rehoboth Selectmen Chairman Gerry Schwall, and Dighton Selectmen Chairman Kenneth Pacheco, DESE’s Associate Commissioner Jay Sullivan said if a budget is not accepted before December 1, DESE “shall establish a budget for the year and shall assume fiscal oversight of the district.”

Finance Committee Chairman Michael Deignan believes Cooper is misinformed about the budget process. Deignan explained the town does not pay for the budget, but an assessment, which is the portion of the expenses attributed to the town.

“Their latest assessment of September 2019 represents a year over year increase of 7.81 percent, which, if approved by DESE, would leave the town a scant $75,000 from its additional revenue in FY20 with which to pay for increases in all the other services the town provides to its 12,000 residents,” Deignan said. “This disparity is a direct result of the financial mismanagement of the district by the administration and the School Committee, as is evidenced by their anomalous use of $1.25 million of their Excess and Deficiency funds in FY19 to balance their budget.”

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Deignan disputed Cooper’s claim that the school district has suffered “repeated layoffs” in the last few years, while the town of Rehoboth has emerged unscathed. Cooper told DESE that town employees had received salary increases of 20 to 30 percent in a year.

“The total number of employees in the Regional School District has steadily increased year after year, increasing by 183 from 2014 to 2018,” Deignan said, adding town employees have received a maximum three percent annual increase.

In the letter to DESE, Cooper also cited the expenses incurred by the school district as a result of a civil suit filed by the Rehoboth Board of Selectmen, who are alleging the district violated the terms of the regional school agreement. “We would also request that you consider the impact on our legal line now that we are being sued by the Board of Selectmen,” Cooper wrote. “Our Committee does not want to have to move money from students to fund a lawsuit that we think is senseless.”

Dighton-Rehoboth School Officials Get Good News

By Joe Siegel Dighton-Rehoboth School officials are pleased with the support the district has received from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).

Jeffrey Riley, one of DESE’s commissioners, told officials he was establishing the 2020 budget at $45 million based on the budget amount established on August 15 as the 1/12 budget. “I am aware this budget may result in a change in assessments to your member towns,” Riley wrote in a November 29 letter. “Consequently, I expect the district to use any additional state reimbursements to offset such increases and reduce member towns’ assessments in continued on next page...

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The Reporter December 2019

FY2020 proportional to the regional district agreement method for apportioning costs.”

Riley added: “the member towns are obligated to appropriate their respective assessments based on this final budget amount and make payments to the regional district in accordance with the payment terms in the approved regional agreement.”

DESE assumed fiscal oversight of the district on December 1 due to a budget not being approved by Dighton and Rehoboth.

Dighton-Rehoboth Superintendent Anthony Azar called the letter “a win-win” for the school district and the two towns. “It clearly indicates that the “compromise budget” between the Rehoboth Board of Selectmen and the School Committee was well thought out and did not reduce personnel or town services on the Rehoboth municipality,” Azar continued. “Nor did it impact school programs or staff in the school district. The letter further recognizes that Dighton has already supported their assessment.”

Rehoboth town officials had been critical of the school department for not being more prudent with their finances. In a November 13 letter to DESE, Rehoboth Selectmen Chairman Gerry Schwall cited “the ever-increasing and unsustainable financial demands” from the school district.

Last August, selectmen had reached a compromise with the school committee. In exchange for giving the school department an additional $330,000 for the 2020 budget, selectmen had proposed $214,000 in cuts to town departments. Voters rejected the revised FY20 budget at the October 29 town meeting and the district-wide meeting scheduled for November 2 was cancelled. The Rehoboth and Dighton Boards of Selectmen had met on October 30 for the purpose of selecting a moderator for the tent meeting. When they reviewed the warrant drafted by the school committee, Schwall realized the budget figure was inaccurate. The warrant article for the “tent” meeting called for the appropriation of $29 million for the school budget. Dighton was responsible for $10. 5 million and Rehoboth was responsible for $19.3 million. The total school budget was $45 million.

“In each such case, the District could have chosen to accept such appropriation and avoid losing control over the schools’ management, and, in each such case, the District refused to do so, opting instead for expensive and adversarial mechanisms that, at best would have netted a purely incremental increase in funding,” Schwall noted in his letter.

For now, the school district feels vindicated after a months-long budget stalemate. “The School Committee is relieved to have a secure budget in place that supports the educational and extracurricular needs of our students,” school committee chairperson Katherine Cooper said Tuesday. “With a 0.66 percent budget in-

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crease, we believe we have provided students with the best services possible while being fiscally responsible to the member towns.”

“Our administration looks forward to continue to work with all stakeholders as we have always done in the past,” Azar added. “We are already working on our 2021 budget and will follow the directions set forth in the DESE communication.”

Rehoboth Town Officials Prepare DESE Response

By Joe Siegel

The Rehoboth Board of Selectmen and Finance Committee plan to take action after the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) established the Dighton-Rehoboth school budget at $45 million.

“I am aware this budget may result in a change in assessments to your member towns,” Commissioner Jeffrey Riley wrote in a November 29 letter. “Consequently, I expect the district to use any additional state reimbursements to offset such increases and reduce member towns’ assessments in FY2020 proportional to the regional district agreement method for apportioning costs.”

Riley added: “the member towns are obligated to appropriate their respective assessments based on this final budget amount and make payments to the regional district in accordance with the payment terms in the approved regional agreement.”

DESE assumed fiscal oversight of the district on December 1 due to a budget not being approved by Dighton and Rehoboth.

“The BOS will consider options and advise accordingly,” said Selectmen Chairman Gerry Schwall. “Personally, I am glad to see DESE responded positively to the Town’s request to appoint a financial overseer to the district. This appointment by the Commissioner serves to validate the concerns expressed in the Town’s feedback to DESE.” Finance Committee Chairman Michael Deignan expressed disappointment at DESE for not performing a “proper review” of the school district’s budget prior to their decision on November 29. “I am further disappointed faceless bureaucrats in Boston saw fit to willfully disregard the will of 82 percent of the 1,000-plus voters who attended the July 16th Special Town Meeting, and opted to negate their vote by setting a budget different than that which the fine residents of this town overwhelmingly decided on,” Deignan said.

Dighton-Rehoboth Superintendent Anthony Azar cheered DESE’s decision. “It clearly indicates that the "compromise budget" between the Rehoboth Board of Selectmen and the School Committee was well thought out and did not reduce personnel or town services on the Rehoboth municipality,” Azar continued.

“Nor did it impact school programs or staff in the school district.

The letter further recognizes that Dighton has already supported their assessment.”

In a November 13 letter to DESE, Schwall cited “the everincreasing and unsustainable financial demands” from the school district. Last August, Selectmen had reached a compromise with the School Committee. In exchange for giving the school department an additional $330,000 for the 2020 budget, selectmen had proposed $214,000 in cuts to town departments. Voters rejected the revised FY20 budget at the October 29 town meeting and the district-wide meeting scheduled for November 2 was cancelled.

In a November 4 letter to Azar, School Committee Chairperson Katherine Cooper, Schwall, and Dighton Selectmen Chairman Kenneth Pacheco, DESE’s Associate Commissioner Jay Sullivan had warned if a budget was not accepted before December 1, DESE “shall establish a budget for the year and shall assume fiscal oversight of the district.”

“Once the department sets the final district budget for the year, the treasurer of the regional school district must calculate and certify to the member municipalities their respective assessments based on the statutory method,” Sullivan wrote.

December 2019 The Reporter

23

The Seekonk Scene I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving with family and friends. It’s hard to believe December is here and we will be ringing in the year 2020 in a few Florice Craig short weeks.

The Annual Fall Town meeting was held on November 18, 2019, which ironically happened to fall on my birthday this year, thanks to everyone who was there and sang Happy Birthday. It’s the little things like that which makes me love my job, this town and the people who live here. We might be growing but we still have that small-town charm.

Below you will find an outline of Town meeting results. If you want to read the minutes in their entirety you can find them on the town web-site www.seekon-ma.gov under the department heading Town Clerk.

Annual Fall Town Meeting News

Article 7- Authorize transfer from Free Cash the sum of $500,000.00 to the Municipal Capital Stabilization Fund. Passed unanimously.

Article 8- Town to amend the General Bylaws of the Town of Seekonk, Category 39, Enforcement, as presented in the warrant.

Passed unanimously.

Article 9- To accept the provisions of Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 59, Section 5, Clause 22G as follows: “in any city or town that accepts this clause, real estate that is the domicile of a person but is owned by a trustee, conservator of other fiduciary for the person’s benefit if the real estate would be eligible for exemption under clause 22,22A,22B,22C,22D, 22E,22F if the person were the owner of the real estate. Passed unanimously.

Article 10- Town to accept Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 40, Section 8J allowing for the creation of a Commission on Disability of 5 to 13 members to be appointed by the Board of Selectmen, with the following responsibilities: 1) Research local problems of people with disabilities; 2) Advise/assist municipal officials and employees ensuring compliance with disabilities in laws and regulations; 3) Coordinate/carry out programs designed to meet the problems of people with disabilities; 4) Review/ make recommendations about policies, procedures, services, activities and facilities of departments, boards and agencies in Seekonk as they affect people with disabilities; 5) Provide information, referrals, guidance and technical assistance to individuals, public agencies, businesses and organizations in all matters pertaining to disability; 6) Coordinate activities of other local groups organized for similar purposes.

A majority of commission members shall consist of people with disabilities, one member shall be immediate family of a person with a disability and one member shall be either an elected or appointed official of the town. Passed with a majority vote.

Article 11- Town to amend the General Bylaws of the Town of Seekonk to include 14B: Fowl as presented in the warrant. Passed with a majority vote.

Article 12 – Town to amend the Zoning Bylaws of the Town of Seekonk. Proposed amendments intended to facilitate the adoption of online permitting by the Town and determination by the Planning Board to allow for notice of a site plan application to abutters rather than a blanket notice requirement. Passed with a 2/3 majority vote.

Article 13 – Town to amend the General Bylaws of the Town of Seekonk, Category 47 – Public Consumption of Marijuana or Tetrahydrocannabinol. Passed with a majority vote.

Article 14 – Town to make addition to Zoning Bylaw 8.8 Signs.

Add 8.8.3.2 Exemptions from permit: Section J. Passed with a 2/3 vote.

Seekonk held its Fall Town Meeting at Seekonk High School, 261 Arcade Ave. Monday November 18, 2019.

Town Clerk called the meeting to order at 7:06PM A motion was made to allow the Town Moderator to declare a 2/3 vote on articles requiring that vote. Passed unanimously.

A motion was made to allow non-residents to speak at the meeting. Passed unanimously.

A motion was made to allow the Town Moderator to proceed with all articles, even those that affect him personally. Passed unanimously.

Article 1 - To receive Town Officers or committees reports.

Passed unanimously. A report was given by Michael Durkay, Chairman of the Library Board of Trustees. A report was given by Jacqueline Proulx, Chairman of the Aitken School Expansion Building Committee. (These reports are on file with the Town Clerk’s Office).

Article 2- Town to appropriate from Ambulance Receipts Reserved Account the sum of $7,373.00 for the purchase of EMS medical equipment and rifle plates for 6 Active Shooter Backpacks.

Passed unanimously.

Article 3- Town to appropriate from Ambulance Receipts Reserved Account the sum of $72,000.00 for the purchase and equipping of (2) Monitor/Defibrillators for the Fire Dept. rescue vehicles.

Passed unanimously.

Article 4- Town to appropriate from Free Cash the sum of $200,000.00 for design, plans, specifications, and estimates for the proposed addition of a turf athletic field and renovations to the athletic complex located at the Seekonk High Scholl, including demolition and site preparation and all other incidental and related costs; and, further, to create a building committee of seven or nine members to oversee the projects, to be appointed by the Town Moderator. Passed with a majority vote.

Article 5-Town to appropriate from Free Medium/Heavy Truck & RV Services Cash the sum of $115,000.00 to fund the federal dot & Ri State inspections costs of the first fiscal year of a collective

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The Reporter December 2019

Article 15– Town to amend the Zoning Bylaws of the Town of Seekonk, Sec 3.2 Zoning Map, to reflect the boundaries of the Marijuana Overlay District in accordance with the MOD expansion map. Vote did not pass with a 2/3 vote.

Article16-Town appropriate the sum of $300,000.00 from the Community Preservation Fund, for the creation of land for recreational use, specifically, for the design, construction, and furnishing of a playground to be located on the Town Hall campus located at 100 Peck St., including site preparation and all incidental and related expenses. Passed with a unanimous vote.

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Article 17-Town to appropriate from Free Cash $85,000.00 to fund cost of the first fiscal year of a collective bargaining agreement with the International Association Fire Fighters, Local 1931, beginning July 1, 2019 through June 30, 2022. Passed unanimously.

Article 18- Town to appropriate $1,477,938.00 to pay costs of designing, planning constructing and furnishing Phase II of the renovation of 540 Arcade Ave. (Sr. Center) Moderator to appoint a building committee of 7 to 9 members to oversee this project under the direction of the Board of Selectmen. Passed with a 2/3 majority.

Meeting adjourned at 11:05PM. Total amount of voter checkedin was:184.

Total amount of registered voters: 10,624. Voter turnout was 1.73%.

The Assistant Town Clerk Lorraine Sorel and I had the pleasure of attending a Tri-County Clerks dinner a few weeks ago in which the main speaker was Michelle Tassinari, Director/ Legal Counsel, Elections Division, Office of Secretary of the Commonwealth, MA. She went over early voting for the State Primary to be held on March 3, 2020 as well as other subjects concerning elections. She noted that even though it has not been voted on in the State house yet we will most likely have early voting for the primary. Early voting would be held at the Town Hall BOS meeting room from February 24-28, 2020.

Election Calendar for 2020

State Primary - March 3, 2020 (Early voting Feb. 24-28) Annual Town Election - April 6, 2020 State Primary - September 3, 2020 (Early voting dates TBA) State Election/Presidential - November 3, 2020 (Early voting dates TBA) Applications for absentee ballots to be sent to you for all elections this year will be available January 1, 2020 either at the Town Clerk’s office or online at the www.seekonk-ma.gov under the Town Clerk heading.

Nomination papers for offices up for election for the Town election will be available December 10, 2019 in the Town Clerk’s office.

Deadline to submit nomination papers to the Town Clerk is Monday February 17, 2019 at 5PM. You must obtain a minimum of 50 signatures from voters registered in Seekonk. A street address) not a P.O. Box is required from each person signing your papers.

Elected positions available in 2019: Two seats for Board of Selectmen (3-year term) One seat for the Board of Assessors (3-year term) Two seats for The Library Board of Trustees (3-year term) Two seats for the Planning Board (5-year term) One Seat for the School Committee (3-year term) One Seat for Town Clerk (3-year term) One Seat for Town Moderator (3-year term) One Seat for Water Commission (3-year term) One Seat for Water Commission (1-year term) The town has many wonderful seasonal events that you can find out about in this publication, I hope everyone takes advantage of them. The Town Clerk’s office is selling The 24th Annual Taste of the Town tickets to be held on March 3, 2019, 6- 9pm at the Clarion Inn, Grand Rose Ballroom. They would make great stocking stuffers.

The Town Offices hours over the week of Christmas and New Year will be: Tuesday Dec. 24, 2019 8:30am – 12:00pm Wednesday Dec. 25 – Closed Thursday Dec. 26 open 8:30am -4:30pm Friday Dec. 27 open 8:30am – 12:00pm Tuesday Dec. 31 open 8:30am – 12:00pm Wednesday Jan. 1, Closed Thursday Jan. 2, 8:30am – 4:30 Friday Jan. 3 8:30am – 12:00pm Lorraine and I would like to wish all of you a happy and healthy Holiday Season.

December 2019 The Reporter

A Conversation with Chief Enos

By Joe Siegel

Seekonk’s interim Police Chief David Enos is in charge of a department which has undergone many changes.

Enos, 48, was named Deputy Chief by the Board of Selectmen last March. Following former Chief Frank John’s resignation in July, Enos was tapped to lead the department.

Enos grew up in Taunton and took an interest in criminal justice at a young age. He said being a police officer appealed to him because of his need to serve the community.

The 17 year veteran notes the department has grown from 30 members to nearly 40. “We had an influx of (younger officers) so I went from being one of the young guys to being one of the old guys,” Enos said.

Chief Enos Sex trafficking has been a major problem in Seekonk for the past several years. The department has been working with the Rhode Island State Police and Homeland Security on apprehending suspects. “Our detective division is very busy (dealing with reports of sexual assaults),” Enos said.

As for opioid use, Enos notes the problem is located primarily in the town’s south end, where transients stay in the motels on Route 6. Enos said the presence of recreational marijuana shops is a concern. Voters at Monday’s town meeting rejected an expansion of the marijuana overlay district and approved restrictions on the number of marijuana businesses in town. “One of the biggest consequences is going to be the impaired driving aspect of it,” Enos said, noting the members of the department would be receiving additional training for any problems arising in the future.

For anyone considering a career in law enforcement, Enos cautions them about the reality of the job. “Being a cop is more than just locking up bad guys,” Enos explained.

“Our mandate has grown through the years. We are called (upon) to do everything now.

We get called on any kind of issue ranging from family disputes to mental health issues.”

Enos said police departments all over the country are experiencing problems regarding recruiting and retention. Seekonk is no exception. “Before you could just (announce) that you were having a test and you’d have thousands of people show up,” Enos noted. “You would have a large applicant pool to choose from. That’s not the case now. Less people want to be police officers so the size of your pool of candidates has shrunk tremendously. As an administrator of a police department, you have to keep that in mind and start getting creative on ways to market your department and to try to get the best quality candidates.”

Although the search for a permanent police chief is ongoing, Enos is focused on making the department run as smoothly as possible. “Our mission is to serve the community and to make sure our goals are in line with that,” Enos added.

What to Do with the Old Town Hall

By Joe Siegel Seekonk selectmen are mulling over the possible use of the Old Town Hall on Taunton Avenue. At one time, the building housed the police department.

The property had been sold to the Seaconke Wampanoags for $55 in 2014. The “The Old Town Hall” tribe had intended to convert the building into a cultural and meeting center. Those plans fell through and now the town owns the building again.

A total of $100,000 has already been spent from the town’s community preservation fund in order to prepare the building for the historic register.Selectman David Viera believes the building has historical value and wants to see it preserved. “If we don’t remember our history, we’re not going to remember how we got to where we are today,” Viera said at the board’s October 30 meeting. Selectmen designated the task of determining the building’s value to members of the town’s Historical commission and the Community Preservation Committee.

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The Reporter December 2019

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December 2019 The Reporter

Holiday Guide Rehoboth Anawan Lions Annual Tree Lighting December 7th at 3:00 pm

The Rehoboth Anawan Lions will be again hosting their Annual Tree Lighting on December 7th at 3:00 pm at the Memorial Gazebo in Rehoboth on Route 44. Immediately following the Tree Lighting refreshments will be served at the Rehoboth Public Library/Goff Hall on Bay Road. Stop by for some Fun and Games!! Be especially good because “You Know Who is Making a List, and Checking it Twice!!” He may just appear at the Tree Lighting to see if you’ve been naughty or nice!!!!

Thank you, Denise Thomas, Rehoboth Anawan Lions 774218-8002

Senior Holiday Dinner December 8th

The Rehoboth Lions are pleased to announce that with the assistance of the Rehoboth Anawan Lions, the American Legion, the Fireman’s Associations and the Order of the Eastern Star Masons, as well as the D-R Leo Club, a Senior Holiday Dinner will be once again be prepared on December 8, at D.L. Beckwith School. The full turkey dinner will include, rolls, salad by Mike, mashed potatoes, gravy, squash, stuffing, turkey and make your own sundae with ice cream from Uncle Ed’s Front Porch. Sorry, no Take Out orders.

Seating will begin at 11:30 with dinner served at noon. Entertainment from the D-R music department and a free raffle will also be part of this festive dinner.

Tickets are $5 and are only available at the Rehoboth COA. There is a maximum of 150 tickets to be sold. The Rehoboth Lions, Rehoboth Anawan Lions, the American Legion, the Fireman’s Associations and the Order of the Eastern Star Masons, the D-R Leo Club hope to see many Rehoboth Seniors at this great holiday event.

Seekonk Congregational Church, UCC Christmas Bazaar and Gift Festival December 7, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Christmas Bazaar and Gift Festival, Seekonk Congregational Church, UCC, 600 Fall River Ave, Seekonk. December 7th, Saturday, 9am-2pm. Handmade crafts, knitted goods, decorations, jewelry, Live Wreaths, Boxwood centerpieces, a wide variety of gift baskets, and more! Baked goods … as well as a luncheon being served featuring various soups, sandwiches, homemade desserts, fries, doughboys, etc. Special room with Christmas items, drawing table with winners announced at the end of the day. Pictures with Santa. Come and enjoy the fun! Any questions: call 508-336-9355 or Email: seekonkucc@gmail.com. Seekonk Congregational Church is an open and affirming Congregation of the United Church of Christ. Sunday Worship is held at 9 & 10:30AM. No matter who you are or where you are in life’s journey, you are always welcome here.

For all your Special Events... Call Today!

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The Reporter December 2019

Holiday Advent & Christmas Activities

Newman Congregational Church, UCC. Heaven and Nature Sing!

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“Joy to the World,” a beloved Christmas classic, turns 300 this year. Composer Isaac Watt’s interpretation of Psalm 98 invites us to sing a “new song” — and it is a powerful cosmic performance of all creation being renewed and freed. Rather than “joy” being yet another word for “happiness,” we will discover during our Advent season that the depths of joy can be found especially in the midst of suffering, the work of justice, and the presence of compassion — all part of the coming of Jesus to this world and a message the world still so desperately needs.

December 8 - 9:30 am

Advent 2 - “Repeat the Sounding Joy: Loving Joy”

December 15 - 9:30 am

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Advent 3 - “Make the Blessings Known: Unabashed Joy” Join us after worship for a short Christmas Play and Potluck Brunch!

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December 21 - 7:00 pm

Blue Christmas Service - “Elusive Joy”

December 22 - 9:30 am

Advent 4 - “Make the Nations Prove: Peaceful Joy”

December 22, - 4 pm

Community Carol Sing! Join Newman’s Choir and the Providence Adult String Ensemble for festive Christmas Music with Sing-a-longs!

December 24 - 5:00 pm & 11:00 pm Christmas Eve - “The Lord is Come: Incarnate Joy” With choir and festive prelude music beginning at 10:30 pm!

24th Annual Mission Bazaar December 7, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Saturday, December 7, 2019 between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM Newman Congregational Church, UCC will host their 23rd Annual Mission Bazaar. All proceeds are

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Guide donated to various charities. Last year’s profits were dispersed to the following: Back Bay Mission, Bread of Life Food Pantry, Haiti, Newman’s Mission Fund, Rumford Lions Club, Senior High Youth Group, and the Women’s Center.

Amongst the tables you will find ornaments; “Newman’s Own” Country Store featuring a variety of crafts, breads, and cookies. There will be decorated fresh balsam wreaths, hand knit items, quilted Christmas items, fleece scarves, handmade crafts, and jewelry made by Haitian artisans.

You are sure to find treasures at “Newman Marcus” (our white elephant tables). The kitchen is open for breakfast and lunch.

Bring your friends and enjoy the festivities!

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 - on the corner of Newman and Pawtucket Avenues. For more information, call 401-434-4742.

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The Reporter December 2019

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Centenary United Methodist Church Presents: An Evening of Dinner and Music for the Whole Family Saturday December 14, 5:00pm

Pick a centerpiece worthy of your unique Christmas decor. Call us today at Gilmore’s Flower Shop to personalize your arrangement.

Florist Hours Monday - Friday 8 - 5:30, Saturday 8 - 3, Sunday Closed

Visit our Shop 76 Taunton Avenue, East Providence, RI 02914 401-434-3667 • www.gilmoresflowershop.com

Roast Beef Dinner (roast beef, green beans, mashed potatoes, gravy, roll, salad, dessert and beverage. 6:00pm – concert following dinner Our Christmas Concert will feature the vocals of: Tina Luce and the group Crossing Jordan.

Tina Luce is the worship leader at Wesley UMC in Salem, MA. Her bio and music can be found on her website eyesoffaith. com. She and her choir members will be singing a very special Christmas Cantata.

Crossing Jordan is a contemporary worship band out of Long Island NY, who have been playing and writing together for over 10 years. Check out “God of Love” on YouTube, which debuted in 2016. Pick up tickets Monday- Thursday, Saturday 9-12 Tickets are on sale now, $20 for adults and $10 for children 10 and under. Seats are limited purchase your tickets today!

Centenary United Methodist Church 15 Sanford S, Attleboro MA (across from the YMCA) Call: 508-222-1759 or email centumc@ verizon.net to order your tickets today!

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Guide East Bay’s Only Live Nativity

East Bay’s only live nativity is a live outdoor event presented

by Barrington Baptist Church at 25 Old County Road in Barrington, Rhode Island for two nights from 6:00-8:00 p.m. on Friday, December 13 and Saturday, December 14. The meticulously-staged production recreates the story of Jesus’s birth through hand-crafted venues, period-costumed actors, and live animals including sheep, an alpaca, and a foal.

The church will welcome guests on either night for identical events. Guests will be greeted by Roman guards taking the census and welcomed into a marketplace in Bethlehem. From there guests will travel to the shepherds’ field with angels proclaiming the birth.

Everyone will have an opportunity to sit and reflect at the nearby manger scene before being welcomed inside to see the Three Wise Men approaching the holy family’s home.

Christmas revelers are invited to stay for warm refreshments, Christmas crafts and cookie decorating. Families and friends can snap their photo in the Photo Booth as a memento for the evening.

This family-friendly event is free. Details can be found at www. bbcri.org/christmas

Mystic Aquarium’s First-Ever Northern Lights Holiday Event

Grand Opening Saturday December 7th

Mystic Aquarium’s first-ever evening holiday lights display. Illuminated by a re-creation of the aurora borealis, the new and unique holiday experience - Northern Lights - will take guests on a journey along the lighted pathways of the Aquarium’s outdoor habitats.

A stunning spectacle of energy-efficient lights will be set to music as guests stroll along beautifully-decorated pathways throughout the outdoor Aquarium exhibits. Hand-crafted lanterns help shine a whole new light on Arctic species.

Thematic content will showcase Mystic Aquarium’s commitment to environmental conservation, renewable energy alternatives and endangered species protection.

In addition to colorful holiday lights, guests will enjoy seasonal treats, crafts and more.

There will be special appearances by the Snow Sisters every Thursday, Father Christmas on Fridays and Petey the Penguin every Saturday. A Send a Wish upon a Star station will allow guests to write notes and well-wishes to the men and women serving overseas this holiday season.

Northern Lights will have its grand opening on Saturday, December 7 and run Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings from December 12, 2019 to January 4, 2020.

TICKET INFO: Tickets are on sale now for $15 per person, $12 per Mystic Aquarium member and are available online only. Children two and under are free. Proceeds from ticket sales will benefit Mystic Aquarium’s mission programs in conservation, education and research.

To learn more visit the event page on HOLY MysticAquarium.org.

St. Mary’s Christmas Bazaar Saturday Dec 7th 9am to 3pm

This year’s bazaar will feature: Home-made Fudge, Penny Social, Pet Table and Crafts, Baked Goods Table, White Elephant Table, Raffles and a home-made Jams and Jelly Table. We also will be cooking and offering many different items for Lunch.

St Mary’s is located at 81 Warren Ave in East Providence.

Bristol County Chorus Christmas Concert

The Bristol County Chorus will present their 39th annual Christmas concert accompanied by a professional orchestra on Sunday Dec 15, 2019 at St. Mary’s Church, 330 Wood Street, Bristol, RI, at 3:00 PM. The Chorus and orchestra will be conducted by director of music, Nicholas Rocha. This year’s holiday offering, The Night Before Christmas, will feature a celebration of carols, including music by John Rutter; “Believe” from the popular movie adaptation of The Polar Express; and traditional favorites, such as the “Bristol Christmas Sing-Along,” and “O Holy Night.”

Mr. Rocha begins his second year as director, having served the BCC in the past as an accompanist and assistant conductor.

He is also the newly appointed artistic director of the Oure Pleasure Singers of Attleboro, and serves as accompanist and assistant conductor of the Rhode Island Civic Chorale and Orchestra (RICCO).

Additionally, Mr. Rocha has enjoyed a seven-year tenure as Director of Music Ministry at Holy Angels Church in Barrington.

Tickets are available locally at the George Hail Library in Warren, Paper Packaging and Panache in Bristol, and online at https.//bccholidayconcert2019.brownpapertickets .com. Tickets are $15.00 in advance, and $20.00 at the door.

Any questions can be emailed to bristolcountychorus@gmail. com, or addressed to Bristol County Chorus, P.O. Box 928, Bristol, RI, 02809. Look for us on Facebook!

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32

The Reporter December 2019

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Holly Jolly Holiday Happenings Coming to The Classic Coast

“There’ll be much mistltoeing and hearts will be glowing” in Newport and Bristol Counties this holiday season.

The latest issue of Yankee Magazine dedicated its cover story to the magic that Newport exudes during the holiday season, declaring, “At the Gilded Age’s favorite summer resort, they do the holidays to the nines.” In addition to the daily events associated with “Christmas in Newport” (now in its 49th year), below are just some of the events that make • Holiday Arrangments • Plants our destination so special this time of year: • Boxwood Trees • Fruit Baskets Through Feb. 29 Festive Igloo Pop-Ups at Gurney’s Newport Resort: Features • Gift Baskets • Cemetary Baskets heated multi-sensory igloos overlooking Narragansett Bay, each with its own theme including Santa’s Workshop, Winter Wonderland, Cozy Log Cabin, Roaring 20s, Harry Potter, Flowers For All Occasions Tropical Summer, Northern Lights, Astrology and Après Ski, complete with activities and e y w r cocktail pairings. All proceeds will go to Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Rhode Island.

Through Dec. 28 Holiday Lantern Tours: Hear the history of early American holiday www.pandjflorist.com traditions on an evening walk and learn how Newporters did, or did not, observe the holiDavid Quadros - Proprietor days. Tours depart from the Museum of Newport History and Shop. Recurring Fridays and Saturdays at 4 p.m.

Nov. 26 – March 1 Gurney’s Newport Resort Skating Rink: Opens for the season with outdoor skating on the North Lawn overlooking the Newport Harbor Lighthouse, The Point and the Newport Bridge. Open seven days a week. Times vary.

Nov. 27 – Dec. 6 Newport Nutcracker at Rosecliff: Follow Island Moving Co.’s dazzling performers through the spectacular setting of Newport’s most romantic mansion and feel a part of the classic holiday tale. Select dates/times through Dec. 6.

Nov. 29 – Dec. 20 Holiday Market at Gurney’s: Features a Snowmen • Ornaments • Calendars curated selection of travel, lifestyle and fashion finds. Open every 1803 Candles • Window Candles weekend (Fri. – Sun.).

Wreaths... and so much more!

Nov. 30 – Dec. 21 Dickens Holiday Dinner Train: Immerse yourself in the classic tale of humbuggery, ghosts and redemption Gift certificates available in any amount with this interactive retelling of “A Christmas Carol” by the Marley 299 Fall River Ave. Seekonk, MA • (508) 336-0488 Bridges Theatre Company. Experience a dining journey along the Open Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm • Sundays 12-5 Newport and Narragansett Bay Railroad in a custom-designed theater car featuring special tables for two all facing center stage.

Recurring Saturdays.

Dec. 6 Making Spirits Bright: Cocktail + Truffle Making Class: A delicious, festive evening with Executive Chef Andy Teixeira and cocktail expert Brenna Leveille, both from Brix at Newport Vineyards, who will take guests on a truffle-making and cocktailcreating journey. 6 p.m.

Dec. 6 Hotel Viking’s Annual Tree Lighting: Complete with cinnamon cider, glühwein, cookies, carolers and gifts for all. Make sure to be on your best behavior as Santa will be there, checking his list twice! 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Dec. 6 IYRS Holiday Celebration: A festive Restoration Hall will be the place to see students’ boat restoration projects decked out in holiday finery plus live acoustic music and complimentary hors d’oeuvres in one of Newport’s most unique waterfront locations.

5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 6 – 8 Third Annual Newport Holiday Stroll: Enjoy a weekend stroll through Newport with unique New England events, live entertainment throughout the city including busking and caroling, and hand-crafted and local-artisan made gifts at hundreds of shops open all season long.

Dec. 7 Jamestown Annual Holiday Stroll: See Santa arrive at the waterfront, enjoy craft shopping and more. (Santa arrives 1 p.m.).

December Sale Days at

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December 2019 The Reporter

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Guide Dec. 7 – 28 A Rough Point Holiday: Experience the holiday traditions and winter caretaking practices at Doris Duke’s Rough Point with various rooms of the mansion museum both spruced up for the Christmas holiday and cloaked in their winter coverings.

30-minute guided tours offered throughout the day. Recurring Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Dec. 7 Bowen’s Wharf 49th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting: A traditional magic evening of charm and good cheer beginning with Frosty the Snowman’s arrival at 4:30 p.m., Christmas carol sing-a-longs starting at 5 p.m., the Mayor lighting the tree at 6 p.m. and Santa and Mrs. Claus arriving by boat (weather permitting).

Dec. 8 Special Screening of ELF at the Jane Pickens Theater: Fans young and old are invited to experience a film that truly entertains across generations. Come dressed in Elf/festive attire. Admission is FREE with donations of nonperishable food items to the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center food pantry. 1 p.m.

Dec. 11 Christmas at the Inns: Tour some of Newport’s best known inns and bed and breakfasts decorated for the holidays.

3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Dec. 13 OceanCliff’s 10th Annual Holiday Gala: A festive evening of food, cocktails and holiday cheer at the 1892 oceanfront estate. Cocktail hour upon arrival followed by a three-course dinner and live entertainment. 7 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.

Dec. 14 Linden Place’s Holiday Family Free Event: Enjoy a fireside musical performance by holiday handbell ringers in the ballroom with cookies and hot cocoa followed by Santa’s arrival from the North Pole inside the historic mansion. Children can write letters to Santa and pose for a holiday photo with the man himself. Finish off the day with a tour of the decorated house complete with artifacts and old-fashioned toys from long ago. 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Dec. 14 Holiday Farmer’s Market at Mount Hope Farm: Featuring local artisans alongside your favorite market vendors taking place in both the barn and greenhouse with festive features throughout the day. 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Dec. 15 Holiday Drag Brunch with the Trailer Park Girls: It’s time to find out who made the nice list and who’s on the naughty list. The fabulous cast of performers will take you through a Trailer Park Girls Christmas Story. Seatings at 11:30 a.m. and 1:15 p.m.

Dec. 15 St. Petersburg Men’s Ensemble in Concert: This talented quartet will present a dazzling concert of Russian choral music, folk songs and popular music spanning centuries at Newport’s Emmanuel Church. 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Dec. 15 Christmas Open House at Glen Manor House: Holiday décor, refreshments and entertainment will spread yuletide cheer at this John Russel Pope-designed French chateau style home-turned-event-venue. 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. (Santa arrives at 2:45 p.m.)

Dec. 8 Special Screening of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation at the Jane Pickens Theater: Sure to deliver the holiday spirit, come see this classic tale of Clark and Ellen Griswold and family (don’t forget cousin Eddie). 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 28 48th Annual Christmas in Newport Candlelight Tour of Historical Private Homes: Experience the rare opportunity to tour private homes of note in Newport. (Please no children under and no high heels.)

Please note: This is just a sampling of holiday events in the destination. Event dates and details are subject to change. For more, please visit DiscoverNewport.org.

Trinity Rep Presents Fade

Latinx cast and creative team explore culture, class and the price of ambition December 5 – January 5

Providence, RI: Trinity Rep continues its 2019-20 Season with the behind-the-scenes dramatic comedy Fade by Tanya Saracho.

Directed by Tatyana-Marie Carlo, the show features guest artist Elia Saldana as Lucia, a Mexican-born novelist who just accepted her first job writing for television, where her ambition might make her betray everything she thought she valued. Opposite Saldana is resident acting company member Daniel Duque-Estrada as Abel, an ex-Marine working as a janitor at the station who has more to his story than meets the eye. Fade runs December 5, 2019 – January 5, 2020, with press opening on Monday, December 9 at 7:30 pm. Tickets start at $27. More information can be found at www.

TrinityRep.com/fade.

Narragansett Bay Symphony Community Orchestra

The Narragansett Bay Symphony Community Orchestra, Rhode Island’s premier community based orchestra, will present a concert on Sunday, December 8, 2019 at 2PM at St. Peter’s By the Sea Episcopal Church, 72 Central Street, Narragansett, RI 02882.

NaBSco will be performing Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis by Ralph Vaughn Williams and Fantasia on Greensleeves by Ralph Vaughn Williams. The wind section of NaBSco will be featured in Richard Strauss’ Serenade for Winds. Op. No. 7. The center piece of the afternoon is The Reformation Symphony No. 5 by Felix Mendelssohn. Join NaBSco and guest conductor, Jon Ceander Mitchell for an inspiring afternoon of glorious orchestral music.

Admission is FREE! Please help feed the hungry by bringing a non-perishable food item for St. Peter’s Food Pantry.

St. Peter’s Church is handicap accessible. There is also ample parking. For more information visit: NABSCO.org or call 401-2744578.

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The Reporter December 2019

Holiday Southeastern Massachusetts Festival Chorus Presents Ring Out the Bells Saturday, December 14, 7:00 pm Sunday, December 15, 2:00 pm

The Southeastern Massachusetts Festival Chorus will present its 2019 Holiday concerts on December 14th and 15th at Taunton High School.

Titled Ring Out the Bells!, the festive program will feature familiar favorites to help you ring in the holiday season! The concert will include cherished carols, such as “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day”, “Ding Dong! Merrily on High”, “I Saw Three Ships”, “He Is Born,” and “Angels We Have Heard on High”. Contemporary songs, including “Let There Be Peace on Earth”, “Ring the Bells,” and “Everlasting Light (A Hanukkah Anthem)” will also be included in a setting that is filled with the glorious sounds of chorus, orchestra, and handbells performing separately and together in full consort.

Special guest performers will include the Jubilate Ringers from East Greenwich, RI and the Samuel Fuller School Children’s Chorus.

A distinctive, acoustic performance will be held at St. Mary’s Church in the afternoon of December 8th. This “preview” performance will be accompanied by flute, pennywhistle, guitar, piano and percussion. SMFC Bells, the newest addition to the SMFC franchise, will perform exclusive selections, including “Ave Maria” and “The Bells of St. Mary’s”. Other exclusive content will also be featured in this perennially favorite performance.

Tickets range from $18 to $22. Please visit www.smfconline. org for more information and to purchase tickets on line or call 508-813-0697.

The Village of Chepachet in Glocester, RI Opens Its Doors for Candlelight Shopping and Holiday Cheer

The Village of Chepachet in Glocester, RI will once again open its doors (in and around downtown) for some Yankee hospitality and Candlelight Shopping. Kicking off the festivities will be a Christmas Tree lighting ceremony on Thursday, December 5 at 6:00 p.m. at the Pavilion at Kent Field.

“Each year the Town of Glocester comes together to celebrate many of our great holiday’s, opening our streets and businesses to Rhode Islanders and visitors alike,” said George (Buster) O. Steer, Jr., President of the Glocester Town Council. “Candlelight Shopping is a great small-town, USA, event showcasing our historic town and local businesses. It’s events like these that continue to cultivate and strengthen our sense of community.”

Festivities take place on Thursdays, December 5, 12 and 19 from 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. and on Saturday, December 21 from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Local shops will be decorated and the streets will be lighted with the antique street lights. Holiday music and carolers will add to the old-fashioned ambiance.

“Candlelight Shopping has been a mainstay since the 1990s and welcomes 1,000-1,500 shoppers a night during the shopping hours of 5-9PM,” said Charlie Wilson, Chair of the 2019 Candlelight Shopping and Festival of Lights. “Once again our great sponsors, Glocester Heritage Society, Glocester Business Association and MouseWorks Website Design & Hosting, have come together to create another memorable year.”

Give the Gift of Love to a Deserving Senior this Holiday Season Be a Santa to a Senior kicks off in Attleboro

The holiday season is also the season of giving and a time to share smiles with those around you. As you gather to drink hot cocoa and sing carols with family and friends, it’s important to remember there are seniors in your community who would love to celebrate, too. However, many seniors live alone, without someone to share this special time.

Home Instead Senior Care® is once again offering the Northern Bristol county community a chance to spread joy to local seniors.

Through the Be a Santa to a Senior® program, community members can give a senior a special holiday gift. Since the program’s inception in 2003, the Be a Santa to a Senior® program has mobilized more than 60,000 volunteers, provided approximately 1.2 million gifts and brightened the season for more than 700,000 deserving seniors nationwide. Last year, more than 250 seniors received 400 gifts.

“The Be a Santa to a Senior program is all about including seniors in the joy of the holiday season,” said Debbie Nichols, owner of the Attleboro Home Instead Senior Care office. “A simple gift shows them they are a loved and vital member of our community.”

Be a Santa to a Senior is a true community program, with generous support from Norther Bristol county businesses, nonprofit organizations, retailers, numerous volunteers and members of the community. Home Instead Senior Care has partnered with areas businesses and nonprofits, including Attleboro Council on Aging, Bethany House, Hillside Adult Day Health Center, and Prime Time Adult Day Care to identify seniors and help with gift collection and distribution.

It’s easy to help. Visit one of the participating locations listed below and look for the Be a Santa to a Senior tree on display from Nov. 4 to Dec. 5. Each tree will be decorated with ornaments featuring seniors’ first names and gift suggestions. Holiday shoppers can choose an ornament, buy the requested gift and return it to the store with the ornament attached. There’s no need to worry about wrapping — community volunteers and program partners will wrap and deliver the gifts to local seniors in time for the holidays.

“While it may seem like a small act of kindness, it can really make a difference for someone this holiday season,” said Nichols.

“Watching seniors open the gifts they received through Be a Santa to a Senior and seeing the smiles and appreciation on their faces is one of my favorite parts of the holiday season.”

Be a Santa to a Senior trees can be found at the following locations: • Flaky Crusts Pie, 401 Old Colony Rd. in Norton • Home Instead Senior Care, 555 Pleasant St. #104 in Attleboro • Residence Inn by Marriott Boston Foxborough, 250 Foxborough Blvd. in Foxborough • United Chamber, 310 South St. in Plainville • The Branches of North Attleboro, 40 Robert F Toner Blvd. in North Attleboro • Wingate Residences at Norton, 190 Mansfiled Ave. in Norton For more information about the program, visit BeaSantatoaSenior.com or call 508-222-0800.

For more information about how you can help seniors in your community, visit imreadytocare.com.

December 2019 The Reporter

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Guide Lighting the Tree of Life and Remembrance Ceremony Sunday, December 8 at 2:00 PM

Community VNA, 10 Emory Street, Attleboro, MA This tradition offers a chance to gather to honor and remember loved ones. The ceremony is free and open to the public with a reception following. The community can also participate by making a donation to Community VNA Hospice and Palliative Care. When you make a gift, we will add the names of your loved one to a silver star on our Tree of Life and Remembrance during the lighting ceremony.

Donations support the compassionate care given by Community VNA’s Hospice and Palliative Care interdisciplinary team of nurses, social workers, spiritual care coordinator and volunteers.

Donations may be made during the ceremony or online at www. communityvna.com/donate. You may also mail a check payable to Community VNA, Development Office, 10 Emory Street, Attleboro, MA 02703.

Artists for The Bay Show & Sale

Showcasing Local Art and Jewelry Starting Dec 5th

Save The Bay will hold a festive Opening Reception for its annual Artists for The Bay Show & Sale on Thursday, December 5 from 6-8:30 p.m. Creative and artisan works by dozens of local artists, sculptors and jewelers will be on display and for sale at the organization’s Bay Center headquarters in Providence. Guests will discover a variety of artwork, ranging from elegant seascapes to handcrafted jewelry. All participating artists are generously donating 50 percent of all sales to support Save The Bay’s advocacy, education and restoration work, and in celebration of Save The Bay’s 50th Anniversary, an exclusive Founder’s Collection will feature pieces by longtime participating artists, who are generously donating 100 percent of sale proceeds.

“Through the years, many of my Rhode Island landscapes have sold to raise money to support Save The Bay’s efforts to protect Narragansett Bay,” said Artists for The Bay and Founder’s Collection participant Jody Eyre, who will be returning for her tenth show.

“It is an honor to have a large piece hang in Save The Bay’s foyer for all the many guests who visit their Providence headquarters.”

“The Artists for The Bay Show & Sale offers guests a rare opportunity to explore beautiful artwork, discover unique gifts for loved ones, and support an organization they believe in,” says Leanne Danielsen, Save The Bay’s events manager. “The Opening Reception is a perfect kick-off for both the show and the holiday season, and it’s made even more special by the local restaurants and businesses that support the event with food, drink and music.”

Opening Reception ticket holders will enjoy an evening of live music and local food and drink, provided by Edible Arrangements; Fire Works Catering; Granny Squibb’s Iced Tea; High Hook Wines; Keel Vodka; Knead Doughnuts; Ragged Island Brewing Co.; and Sarcastic Sweets. Tickets ($40) can be purchased online at savebay.org/art or at the door.

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For more info on the web: www.americana-auction.com

For info call 508-771-1722 or 508-939-0556

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The Reporter December 2019

Holiday Artists for The Bay Show & Sale is generously sponsored by the Sage Family Foundation; Amica Insurance; REI Co-op; Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Rhode Island; Navigant Credit Union; Roger Williams University; F.L. Putnam Investment Company; Absolut; Moo.com; Coast to Coast Promotional Products; UNFI; Sophia Shibles Interiors; BayCoast Bank; Caster Communications, Inc.; Sunflower Designs; and Falvey Insurance Group.

“At the heart of our support for Artists for The Bay is a belief that original art and handcrafted pieces, along with interiors that capitalize on the natural surroundings, contribute to the joy of living,” said Mary Farrell, project manager at event sponsor Sophia Shibles Interiors.

The Artists for The Bay Show & Sale runs through January 2020, with a free Closing Reception on Saturday, Jan. 25 at 11 a.m. Community members are invited to the Bay Center—located at 100 Save The Bay Drive, Providence— to browse and purchase artwork during the facility’s regular business hours (Mon.-Fri., 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.) between Dec. 5 and Jan. 25.

For more information about Artists for The Bay Show & Sale, contact Leanne Danielsen at ldanielsen@savebay.org or 272-3540 x140, or visit savebay.org/art.

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3 Holiday Activities to Engage with Loved Ones

(Family Features) Any time can be the right time to enjoy memorable moments with family members, but the holidays present a special opportunity to have meaningful conversations and interactions with loved ones.

One of the best ways to spark creativity and generate memories is through activities that get the conversation started, whether it’s remembering favorite moments from the past or simply sharing notes of appreciation. This holiday season, consider these activity ideas from the Funeral and Memorial Information Council, which created the “Have the Talk of a Lifetime” initiative to encourage families to facilitate conversations that become invaluable when the time comes to honor a loved one.

While these conversations can be difficult to engage in and even harder to begin, the natural bonding moments that stem from activities like these can help make the process easier.

Gratitude Tree: Start a new tradition by creating a gratitude tree, a simple decoration you can look forward to using each year as a reminder of what you and your family are thankful for.

To make a gratitude tree, collect twigs or branches, dry them out and cut them to the desired lengths. Put the branches in a vase or decorative container. Punch holes at the tops of fall-colored paper to be used as tags then instruct guests to write what they’re grateful for on each tag.

Take turns reading the tags and tie them to the branches then keep the handwritten tags in a safe place until they can be read again each holiday season. Over the years, as the tree fills up, you’ll have a lifetime of memories to share.

Time Capsule: Making a holiday-inspired time capsule can help strengthen family bonds while preserving treasured memories and creating opportunities for future holidays when it’s time to reopen the contents.

Use a sealed container or plastic bag to protect items from moisture and mold then place the container in a box that can be decorated and stored in a safe place with related holiday decorations. Mark on the container the date it was created for future reference, and pack it with items like family-favorite recipes; notes about significant events from that year like births, weddings, graduations and more; copies of newspapers detailing high-profile happenings; and pictures, drawings and notes from the year.

If you’re patient enough to wait, try leaving the contents undisturbed at least five years to give the memories even more meaning when the time comes to relive those special moments.

Memories Tablecloth: To help keep important family footnotes front and center during future celebrations, a memorial tablecloth provides each person an opportunity to personalize a piece of popular decor. As you gather around the table for holiday meals, ask each family member to jot down a favorite memory or something he or she is thankful for along with a signature and date.

You can make it an annual event by using the same tablecloth each year and, before long, it will be filled with personal memories as a way to cherish relationships as time goes on. Just use an appropriately sized, inexpensive white canvas drop cloth. Place fabric markers in the center of the table before inviting guests to participate, and to help distinguish each year, try using different colored markers.

Find more ways to celebrate the holidays with your loved ones at talkofalifetime.org.

Source: Funeral and Memorial Information Council

December 2019 The Reporter

Guide 5 Easy Ways to Give Back During the Season of Giving

(BPT) - Over the holiday season, it’s natural to look for ways to give back to those in need, whether in your own community or beyond. With everyone’s schedules being full to the brim over the season, and with so many other demands on your energy and your funds, it’s sometimes hard to know the best method to donate.

Fortunately, there are many ways that you can make a big difference in the lives of others, even while going about your holiday errands and outings.

Here are just a few ideas to make a meaningful contribution and show your holiday spirit.

1. Participate in a toy drive Always top of mind this season are the needs of children whose families may not have many resources. Organizations large and small throughout the country run toy drives over the holidays, so it’s easy to share the magic of the season with children in your community. Simply pick up an extra couple of toys while you’re doing your own shopping, then find a drop-off location near you.

Most charities require that donated toys be new and unwrapped.

2. Give your airline miles While you’re arranging your holiday travel, check to see if you’ve accumulated extra airline miles. Most airlines allow donation of miles for a wide variety of good causes, so if you have some miles that are close to expiring or you just don’t think you’ll need them, ask the airline what charities they are connected to and how you can donate your miles. Chances are, you won’t even miss them - and they can make a meaningful impact on others.

3. Book a room to make a difference If you or your relatives are traveling over the holidays, consider booking rooms at a Red Roof property, as their “Room In Your Heart” campaign will donate 15% to one of four meaningful charities, up to $25,000, as well as provide a 15% discount on the room rate. The four charities benefiting from the campaign are: • Flying Horse Farms offers magical, transformative camp experiences for children with serious illnesses and families, free of charge. continued on next page....

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The Reporter December 2019 134Central Central Ave. Ave.Seekonk, 134 Seekonk,MA MA

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Holiday • Canine Companions for Independence provides highly trained assistance dogs for children, adults and veterans with disabilities, free of charge.

• The Freedom Alliance supports American troops and families with care packages, grants, scholarships and other programs.

• The Sunshine Kids Foundation organizes positive group activities for children with cancer.

All travelers need to do is book a stay now through Dec. 31 using the promo code “Room” at any Red Roof Inn, Red Roof PLUS+, The Red Collection or HomeTowne Studios by Red Roof to take advantage of the discount and to make a huge difference to children, support animals and military members.

To learn more about the Room In Your Heart campaign, visit RedRoof.com/deals/national-deals/room-in-your-heart.

4. Donate blood Often forgotten over the holidays is the continual need for blood and platelets. Disaster relief organizations and hospitals continue to rely on donated blood throughout the winter months, but many would-be donors are over-scheduled and may not be thinking about this crucial need, which never takes a holiday. Stores of blood are often depleted this time of year. It’s easy to do an online search for a blood drive location near you, and it only takes a little over an hour of your time.

5. Give while you walk Several charities are connected to apps that allow you to donate simply by exercising - or even just walking throughout your day. You connect with your phone, which tracks your miles, and you can choose what charity you want to donate to. It’s a great way to stay active over the holiday season while also contributing to a good cause.

This holiday season, enjoy the festivities and keep up with the hustle and bustle, all while providing meaningful support to charities and causes you care about. Using one or more of these opportunities to give back will make the season even more magical - for you and for others.

Americans Motivated to Improve Holiday Finances

(StatePoint) Americans are taking proactive steps to keep holiday spending in check and be financially ready for next year, according to an Experian national consumer survey.

A majority of those surveyed (84 percent) say they’re motivated to improve their finances this holiday season, with 66 percent paying for gifts in cash and 62 percent planning to pay off debt. Almost half (46 percent) will try to improve their credit score before the start of the new decade.

• Holiday shopping strains finances.

Many Americans agree that holiday expenses affect their finances negatively (63 percent), and nearly two out of three feel stressed about their finances during the season. However, Americans plan to tackle these challenges with some smart approaches; many of those surveyed (65 percent) will set aside money for gifts, while 52 percent will tighten their budgets to prepare for holiday shopping. Looking beyond gift giving, 42 percent will start financial planning to prepare for next year and beyond.

Consumers’ top New Year’s resolutions are

December 2019 The Reporter

Guide saving more (49 percent) and improving their credit score (33 percent).

• Credit as part of a holiday spending plan. Nearly one in four consumers plans to introduce open a new credit card during the holidays, according to Experian. If this describes you, it’s important to go about it carefully.

“Debt you can’t repay will certainly bring down your holiday spirit,” says Rod Griffin, Experian’s director of consumer education.

“There’s often the temptation to overspend, but the best gift you can give yourself is being financially smart. Make sure to create a budget and stick to it while using credit wisely. The key is strategic use of credit -- whether that’s using a card that provides low interest, rewards points or cash back -- to improve the shopping experience and stretch your dollars.”

Whether to get the best credit card for holiday shopping or to be prepared for future loan needs, Americans can now boost their credit score instantly by using Experian Boost, a free tool that allows anyone to continued on next page....

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The Reporter December 2019

Happy Holidays from

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Holiday Guide add positive payment history for utility or telecom bills to their Experian credit report, possibly increasing their FICO Score 8 in real time. Consumers who increase their scores average more than a 10-point bump. For more information, visit experian.com/boost.

• Holiday pressure may cause unwise financial choices. Sixty percent of survey respondents say they spend too much during the holiday season. In fact, despite being stressed about debt, they’ll still spend an average of $1,649 on gifts this year, compared to $945 in 2018, a whopping 75 percent more, according to Experian.

Additionally, the lure of deals is hard to resist; one in five Americans surveyed would risk becoming a victim of identity theft for a good Cyber Monday deal, and 56 percent would rather get a 10 percent discount at a store than improve their credit score by 10 points.

Don’t let the holidays get the best of your wallet. Start the new decade on solid financial ground by making smart seasonal choices.

December 2019 The Reporter

41

Events & Activities Free Rehoboth Community Dances

Rehoboth Contra Dances

December 8, 7-9 p.m.

December 31, 8 p.m.-12 a.m.

Friday, Dec. 13 and 27, 8 p.m.

Sunday Night Jammers On Sunday evening, December 8, from 7 to 9 p.m., there will be a community dance held at Goff Memorial Hall, 124 Bay State Road, in Rehoboth. This dance is hosted by the Sunday Night Jammers, a group of area musicians who meet regularly on Sunday evenings at Goff Hall to play Celtic dance music. The December 8 dance will feature contra dance steps and a variety of international and couple dances, such as polkas and waltzes. All dance steps will be taught. Admission is free and open to the public. Beginners and families are welcome, with the recommended dance age of 6 and up. It is not necessary to come with a partner. A potluck precedes the dance at 6 p.m.

There will be a free New Year’s Eve community dance on Tuesday, December 31, at 8:00 p.m. at Goff Memorial Hall, 124 Bay State Road, Rehoboth, MA 02769. This special holiday dance will go from 8 p.m. to midnight, with a break for refreshments. The dance is hosted by the Sunday Night Jammers, a group of area musicians who meet regularly on Sunday evenings at Goff Hall to play Celtic music. The dance features contra dance steps and a variety of international and couple dances, such as polkas and waltzes. Beginners welcome, partners not necessary.

For information, call or text Bob Elliott at 774-644-1369. http:// www.contradancelinks.com/jammers.html

There will be a Rehoboth contra dance on Friday, December 13, at 8:00 p.m. at Goff Memorial Hall, 124 Bay State Road, Rehoboth, MA 02769. All dances will be taught by caller Will Mentor. Music will be performed by Dave Langford and Kate Barnes. Beginners welcome. Partners not necessary. $10; $8 students.

There will be a Rehoboth holiday contra dance on Friday, December 27, at 8:00 p.m. at Goff Memorial Hall, 124 Bay State Road, Rehoboth, MA 02769. All dances will be taught by caller Lisa Friday, Dec 27, at 8:00 Greenleaf. Music will be performed

by Amy Larkin and Roberta Sutter. Beginners welcome. Partners not necessary $10; $8 students.

For information, go to http://www.contradancelinks.com/ rehoboth.html or the dance’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/groups/43751946212.

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The Reporter December 2019

Paws For A Cause 2019 December 12, 6-8 p.m.

Join the Pets in Need Veterinary Clinic on December 12 from 6 pm until 8 pm for Paws for a Cause 2019 at Linden Place in Bristol, RI. The evening will include a wine & Grey Sail Brewing Beer tasting, appetizers, and a silent auction. The event is sponsored by Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Antech Diagnostics and Elanco. The Silent Auction features a number of notable items including several trip packages to Kenya, South Africa, Vietnam and Belize, foursomes for golf at The Misquamicut Club, East Greenwich Country Club and Richmond Country Club as well as day passes to Sugarbush and portrait sessions with Gene Hutnak Photography. Tickets are $50 and can be purchased online at pinclinic.org.

The Pets in Need Clinic is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and full-service veterinary clinic that offers high quality medical and surgical services for pets of eligible income-qualifying pet owners at discounted prices in Rhode Island.

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But it also reveals a sad fact—for so many of our Rhode Island neighbors, the PIN clinic is an absolute necessity: without it, they wouldn’t be able to afford proper care for their beloved pets.

For additional information about the Pets In Need Veterinary Clinic, Paws for a Cause 2019, and to donate, please visit the website at pinclinic.org.

Seventh Annual Blood Drive in Memory of Bob McKenna Saturday, Jan. 25, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The seventh annual Blood Drive in memory of Bob McKenna will be held on Saturday, January 25, 2020. It will take place in the cafeteria at Seekonk High School, 261 Arcade Avenue from 9:00 2:00. Bob, who passed away in December of 2012, was a lifelong blood donor. His family started this blood drive in Bob McKenna an effort to continue his giving spirit. Please keep in mind that in order to be able to donate that day, your previous donation can be no later than November 30, 2019. If you are a regular donor, please plan your next visit accordingly. If you have never donated before, please consider taking that step in January. There has been at least one first time donor every year and we’d like to keep that trend going. The family looks forward to seeing everyone again. As always, there will be plenty of homemade snacks to enjoy while you are there.

Seekonk Kiwanis 24th Annual Taste of the Towns Tuesday, March 3, 6-0 p.m.

Kiwanis Club of Greater Seekonk is sponsoring their 24th Taste of the Towns on Tuesday March 3, 2020 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Grand Rose Ballroom at the Clarion Inn 940 Fall River Avenue (route 114A).

We have approximately 17 restaurants offering samples of their food along with everyone’s favorite a “Wine & Beer Tasting”.

There will be raffles, a 50/50 cash raffle, and an auction.

Raffles Will Start Promptly @ 8:00 PM Tickets are $30 and are available from Sue Chaisty1-508-557-1363 sue52525@ comcast.net Bernadette Loiselle- 1-508-212-4221 danmegmoll@comcast.net, and at Seekonk Town Hall Clerk’s Office 1-508-336-2921.

A Great Stocking Stuffer Or For Someone’s Special Occasion

December 2019 The Reporter

Sturdy Memorial Hospital Offers Childbirth Education Classes

Sturdy Memorial Hospital’s Maternity Services offers a variety of childbirth education classes to help prepare you and your partner for childbirth and parenthood.

Sturdy Memorial’s Preparing for Childbirth and Childbirth Refresher classes are taught by certified childbirth instructors. Both classes discuss the techniques for proper relaxation and breathing, conditioning exercises to improve comfort during the birthing process - both physically and emotionally, and cesarean births. The Preparing for Childbirth classes are for first time parents and the Childbirth Refresher classes are for parents who have been through the birthing process before, but would like a review.

The Introduction to Breastfeeding class is an excellent way to learn all the benefits of breastfeeding, as well as helpful information and hints to make your breastfeeding experience a success.

The Are You Ready for Baby? class helps children get ready for their new brother or sister through role playing with dolls, a slide show, and a visit to the newborn nursery. The class is helpful for children ages three to eight.

To protect a new baby’s health and safety, Pediatric CPR classes are also offered for parents.

The New Moms Group is for women with babies between the ages of 2 weeks and 12 months. Participants have the opportunity to talk about their growing babies, discuss concerns and expectations, learn different tips from other mothers in the group, and more.

Sturdy’s maternity unit offers comfortable, private rooms and amenities like a Jacuzzi® shower, and a special breakfast buffet. The entire childbirth experience – from labor to discharge – takes place in one room that features the latest medical equipment.

For additional information, program fees or to register for any of the classes or for more information regarding maternity services, please call 508.236.7151.

Sturdy Memorial Hospital is a full-service, independent, financially stable, not-for-profit acute care community hospital in Attleboro, Massachusetts.

Sturdy Memorial Hospital Junior Volunteers Honored At Awards Ceremony

Sturdy Memorial Hospital honored its junior volunteers for their contributions to the Hospital during fiscal year 2019. The juniors, who range in age from 13 to 17, gave a total of 5,914 hours of service over the year in various patient and non-patient areas of the Hospital, as well as off-site facilities. Out of these junior volunteers, 123 received awards. Volunteers from our area were:

Rehoboth

Certificate for 20-49 Hours of Service - Deseria Breckenridge 100 Hour Numeral - Victoria Evans 300 Hour Numeral - Hannah Caouette

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Sturdy Memorial Hospital Offering Prenatal Exercise to Expectant Mothers

The Wellness Exercise Program at Sturdy Memorial Hospital offers prenatal exercise to expectant mothers. Exercise during pregnancy can help ease some of the common discomforts women experience during pregnancy.

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), exercising while pregnant can help reduce backaches, may decrease risk of gestational diabetes, and promotes healthy weight gain during pregnancy. In addition, exercising while pregnant can help to improve endurance and strength, preparing you for labor and delivery.

Sturdy’s Prenatal Exercise Program is a 16- session program that includes resistance and aerobic training, pelvic floor strengthening exercises, as well as education about prenatal health and wellness. Grants are available to those who qualify. Our exercise physiologists are medically trained and will monitor you during your workouts to help you stay healthy and active during your pregnancy.

For more information or to register, please call 508-236-7390.

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The Reporter December 2019

Celebrating Our Local Veterans World War Two Veteran Still Standing

By Joe Siegel

At this year’s Seekonk Veterans’ Day ceremony, Dave Humphrey was recognized by town and state officials for his military service.

Humphrey, 94, is one of the few remaining veterans of World War Two. There were 16.1 million members of the United States Armed Forces during the war. There were 291,557 battle deaths, 113,842 other deaths in service (nontheater), and 670,846 nonmortal woundings. According to the Department of Veteran Affairs, around 389,292 American veterans from the war were Dave Humphrey estimated to still be alive in September 2019.

Humphrey was drafted into the United States Army when he was only 18 years old. He took his basic training at Camp Crawford in South Carolina. “I tried to enlist but they wouldn’t take me,” Humphrey said. “They said I was too immature. I looked like I was 10 years old. I wanted to join the Air Force, I wanted to be a tail-gunner.”

Humphrey was sent to Italy, where he served in the 15th Infantry, Third Division Army. “18, 19 years old, you don’t know what’s going on,” Humphrey explained. “You do what you’re told to do.”

Humphrey was awarded a Purple Heart after being wounded in battle in France. “We were heading up the Mussolini canal and there was machine gun fire on us. One of the bullets put a crease in my helmet. I got a piece of shrapnel through my arm,” Humphrey recalled. “When I got hit, the guy standing next to me had his face blown off.

While he was in Germany, Humphrey saw the liberation of one of the concentration camps at the end of the war. The prisoners

were emaciated from hunger and suffering from various illnesses.

It was something he would never forget.

When Humphrey returned home after the war, he was hired as a truck driver for a paper company in town. Humphrey and his late wife, Lillian, raised four children.

Humphrey also became a champion racer at Seekonk Speedway, where he competed for several years. “The way he drove a race car, he had nerves of steel,” said Doreen Taylor, Humphrey’s niece as well as a former member of the board of selectmen. “If somebody was missing a driver, they would ask him to get in it.

Cars that wouldn’t perform with other drivers seemed to work out just fine with him. You put him in a race car, any kind of race car, and it was lights out all the time. No fear.”

“I drove everything,” Humphrey noted. “Midgets, spread cars, stock cars, three quarter midgets. It was just something I liked, that’s all. When I got out of the service, Seekonk Speedway was opening. I saw those guys (racing) and said ‘that’s what I want to do.’”

Humphrey gained national recognition when he started racing midget cars. He won his last midget race in 1986 at the age of 61. In total, he won 72 Northeastern Midget Association feature events, and six NEMA driving championships. In 2016, Humphrey was inducted into the Seekonk Speedway’s Hall of Fame. He is also a member of the NEMA Hall of Fame. Humphrey attends the organization’s annual banquet, where he is treated like royalty. “The kids look up to him,” Taylor said. “His records are unbelievable.”

Humphrey also became friends with legendary racer Mario Andretti. “I knew him when he was driving stock cars,” Humphrey remembered. “He used to come over and ask if he could sit in my car.”

Humphrey wasn’t forthcoming about his wartime experiences until construction began on the town’s veteran memorial in 2015.

“Never knew he was wounded, never talked about it,” Taylor said, adding Humphrey’s brothers and a cousin also served in the armed forces. “I used to be afraid of him. He was just so quiet.”

So what in life is most important to Humphrey? “I go to bed, I wake up in the morning,” Humphrey replied.

Taylor laughs and notes her uncle Dave has “dry humor.” Explaining why he remained in Seekonk for so many years, Humphrey states it plainly: “It’s just home to me.”

December 2019 The Reporter

45

Seekonk Honors Veterans

By Joe Siegel

The 215th Army Band Town and state officials honored the members of America’s armed forces at a ceremony held Monday at the Seekonk Veterans Memorial Park.

Speakers included Veterans Service Officer James LaFlame, poet Margie Rieske, Selectman David Viera, and State Rep. Steven Howitt, R- Seekonk.

John Zebrowski, an Army veteran, sang the National anthem.

Pastor Michael Sandel delivered the invocation. Music was provided by the 215th Army Band’s fife and drum group, Revolution.

World War 2 Veteran David Humphrey and Doreen Taylor

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Happy Holidays!

From the Rehoboth Veterans Service Office

Thank you Rehoboth Congregational Church

It has become an annual tradition between the Rehoboth Congregational Church and the Rehoboth Veterans Service Office in delivering dozens of Thanksgiving Baskets to the Veterans in need.

Thank You R.R.C. for all that you do for our Veterans. Jake Kramer

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46

The Reporter December 2019

People In The News Bay View Senior from Rehoboth Commits to NCAA Division 1 Colleges on National Signing Day

Dentistry At Its MOST Advanced.

On November 13, 2019, St. Mary Academy – Bay View held the first of its annual ceremonies, which saw three Dentistry Atathletic Itssigning MOST Comfortable. student-athletes sign National Letters of Intent, committing to continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level.

Juliana Goncalves ’20, of Rehoboth, MA, signed to swim for Thanks to the most recent advances dentistry, many dental the Providence College Friars,in alaser Division 1 team in theprocedures Big East can now be completed without theyou needjust for anesthetics, the that Conference.

“As a swimmer, try to focusvibration on the or event disconcerting whine of the dental drill.

Dr. Alan Merchanthouse employs is taking place and hope all the hard work you put in will payjust off,” such in a relaxing setting Rehoboth. the highestlevel saidtechnology Goncalves.

“I knewcountry I wanted to in swim at theFor collegiate quality care high – furnished by aswimming highly trained friendly staff of ecstatic dental whendental I began school forand Bay View—the professionals – call (508) 252-6121 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Alan Merchanthouse.

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environment, the supportive team—it was like I was a part of another family. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to swim Division 1 for Providence College.”

RIIL Second Team All State 100 breaststroke - 2017, 2018, 2019 RIIL Second Team All State 200 Medley Relay - 2019 Rhode Island Coaches Award - 2018, 2019 All Division 100 Breaststroke - 2018, 2019 All Division 200 Medley - 2019 All Division 200 Freestyle relay - 2019 All Division 200 Medley relay - 2019 RIIL Division 2 Champions - 2019

Dr. Alicia Tavares joins Dr. Gabriel Wassouf ’s Dental Practice We are prpud to announce Dr. Alicia Tavares has joined Dr. Gabriel Wassouf’s Dental Practice. We would like to thank our patients for their continued support in welcoming Dr. Tavares into our practice.

Dr. Alicia Tavares graduated summa cum laude from Providence College in 2013 with a BS in Biology after receiving the St. Dominic Scholarship, which granted her full tuition for her schooling. She then went on to graduate summa cum Dr. Alicia Tavares laude from the Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine to earn her DMD degree in 2018, where she received both the BU Annual Scholarship and the Spencer N. Frankl Scholarship. During her time at Boston University, Dr. Tavares was an active member of the American Student Dental Association through her work with the Pre-Dental Committee, where she helped organize events to educate and encourage undergraduate students who were considering a career in dentistry. She was also involved with the Student National Dental Association, which hosted many events to promote oral health awareness and education throughout the community. Dr. Tavares was also inducted into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon Dental Honors Society during her senior year of dental school. Dr. Tavares is currently a member of the American Dental Association and the Massachusetts Dental Society.

Dr. Tavares is committed to providing quality dental care for all of her patients, and strives to make her patients feel comfortable and at home in the dental setting. She also loves giving back to her community, and volunteers once a week at a local homeless shelter playing with children to help alleviate some of the stress in their lives. In her spare time, Dr. Tavares enjoys reading, cross stitching, singing, playing piano, and spending time with her family and friends. Dr. Tavares currently lives in Rehoboth, MA with her husband and cat.

December 2019 The Reporter

RPL’s DeRentis Completes Highest Sale in Seekonk Since 2010

Residential Properties is excited to announce the sale of 21 Prospect Street for the price of $975,850 making it the highest sale in Seekonk since 2010. The listing agent for this property was Sales Associate Jim DeRentis, a member of RPL’s Providence office.

Set on sprawling manicured grounds down a scenic driveway is this gracious home built c1925 that evokes the feeling of an English Manor. This home is ideal for entertaining with a front-to-back living room, elegant dining room, and a fantastic chef’s kitchen with granite counters, top of the line appliances, and an adjoining butler’s pantry. A covered loggia along the rear of the home provides an unmatched vantage point to look out over the sweeping lawn with a serene koi pond. Multiple suites sit on the second floor, including the fantastic master that enjoys an ensuite bath, as well as access to the private second-floor balcony.

Sales Associate Jim DeRentis, has been a recipient of the Circle of Sales Excellence Platinum Plus Award since 2011 when he was named Rookie of the Year. Jim has also been included on the Real Trends’ list of “America’s Top Real Estate Agents” and is Residential Properties Top Producing Sales Agent. To learn more about DeRentis and view his current listings, please visit ThePVDRealEstateGuy.com.

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Ty Perry of Rehoboth Wins Tennis Tourneys

Ty Perry shows off his trophy.

Ty Perry 10 years old of Rehoboth recently won both the U12 & U10 tourneys in Weatogue CT which brings his current ranking to 58th in New England in U12.

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The Reporter December 2019

Young Dancers from Rehoboth and Seekonk to Dance on Grand Stage in Festival Ballet Providence’s The Nutracker Maisie McLaughlin of Rehoboth, and Anne Ethier, Megan Horton, Dominic Jarvis, Lila Shaghalian, Anika Toprac of Seekonk to participate in The Nutcracker at PPAC.

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Pictured from L to R: Megan Horton, Anne Ethier (front), Anika Toprac (behind), Lila Shaghalian, Dominic Jarvis

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December 2019 The Reporter This December, talented local children will take part in a hugely popular Rhode Island holiday tradition. These young dancers will perform with RI’s premiere classical ballet company, Festival Ballet Providence (FBP), in the annual production of The Nutcracker, December 13-15 2019 at the Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC; www.ppacri.org, 220 Weybosset Street) in Providence, RI. These children will be part of a cast of more than 100 children performing roles including Angel, Candy Doll, Mouse, Party Child, Soldier, Sugar Plum Fairy Attendant, and Trepak Corps.

Following an open audition in September, the children earned highly coveted roles in the elaborate professional production, which FBP has performed at PPAC since 1978. The children’s cast comprises over one hundred children from thirty-three towns across Rhode Island and Massachusetts.

Ranging in ages from 7 to 18, the children chosen to perform in The Nutcracker represent a wide range of aspiring young dancers, from children in their first performing experience to advanced students anticipating a career in professional ballet. They may be young but make no mistake – they are all business when it comes to dance.

Putting in countless hours every week at their local dance studios (a wide majority of the children train at Festival Ballet Providence School), each child aspires to make dance part of their lives when they grow up. The strenuous technique and beautiful artistry honed through dance education instill confidence and character in these young children. Plus, the opportunity to perform for a packed house in the lavish setting of PPAC, while rubbing elbows with FBP’s professional company backstage, makes this experience one that these local children won’t soon forget.

The local children who earned roles are listed on the following page. A photo of this group is also enclosed (children named in the list are not necessarily pictured). High resolution photos can be obtained by e-mailing dylan@festivalballetprovidence.org.

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The Reporter December 2019

Club

News & announcements

Rotary Club of East Providence/Seekonk Turner Reservoir Clean Up

Group Rotary Club of East Providence-Seekonk Turner Reservoir Trail Project Our Rotary Club hosted a clean-up of the Turner Reservoir on Saturday, November 16th. Members from our Club along with students from BridgePointe Church and folks from the community came together to clean off bridges and put down new wood chips so that those who use the trail can do so in a much safer environment. Thank you to all those who came out to help!

Provided Materials: Alex Kemp (donated shovels and wheelbarrows), Tom Mottur.

BridgePoint Youth Group Volunteers: Destiney Martin, Alexis Peixoto, Destiney Peixoto, Adriana Peixoto, James Cassamas, AJ Cassamas, Connor Medeiros.

People that saw the event off the Mayor’s post: Claudia Ferro, Soraya Pierre-Louis, Cynthia Mendes Rotarian’s: Justen Galego (Chair of the Committee), Lori DiPersio, Alan Gilmore, Elisabeth Galligan, Valerie Perry, Stephen Propatier.

Elise is the Director of Development at Aldersbridge Communities. She received an informational packet regarding what Rotary is.

Elise Strom and Roberto DaSilva Inducted

On Monday November 18, Elise Strom was inducted into the East Providence/Seekonk Rotary Club by Renate Alexander and her sponsor Elisabeth Galligan, and Roberto DaSilva was inducted

by Renate Alexander and his sponsor Valerie Perry.

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Roberto DaSilva is the Mayor of the City of East Providence and he received a similar packet of information.

Our Club was founded in 1946, and is one of 65 clubs in District 7950, which includes the entire State of Rhode Island, southeastern Massachusetts, Cape Cod, and the islands of Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard. We are a fellowship and service organization of men and women dedicated to the principal of "Service Above Self." We are one of 33,000 clubs in 200 countries with 1.2 million members.

Speaker Program

At our Rotary Luncheon Speaker Program, held on November 4, 2019 we had the pleasure of a presentation of RI Cybercrime Security Support Network. Knowing where to go and what to do after a cybercrime occurs can be confusing. As an individual or small business, you may struggle to find help, and the response from different agencies varies on where you live. For help call 1-800-367-2700, https://fraudsupport.org.

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Rehoboth Minutemen

Betty Galligan, Kim Casci Palangio, Rachel Ferdinandi (Cybercrime Specialist at The United Way 211 of Rhode Island.)

Seekonk Lions Present Check to the American Legion Post 311

The Seekonk Lions Club continues donating money to local charities generated from their world famous clam boils.

And at the November 14th boil, President Gary Sagar presented a $1000 check to American Legion Post 311 member Russ Bradley. During the presentation, Russ told the crowd that exciting news was coming from Post 311 next year. “The Legion will be selling part of our land Russ Bradley with Gary Sagar to the town of Seekonk soon which will allow the Legion to renovate the building and repave the parking lot,” Russ said. “This donation from you folks will help us even more down the road!”

Doorways food pantry of Seekonk were the Seekonk Lions October recipient of a $1000 donation. The team at Doorways came and dished out clam boil delicacies which include amongst the best clams around with tasty hotdogs, sausage, chorizo, onions and potatoes. Doorways member Dave Mullen always appreciates the hard work of the Lions. They look forward to coming back every year to help feed the local hungry clam aficionados.

The Seekonk Lions main fundraising source is our “famous clam boils” held at the Seekonk Rod and Gun Club in Rehoboth and the Annual Golf Tournament they Co-Sponsor with the Rotary Club of East Providence at the Wannamoisett Country Club in Rumford RI. If you would like more info on the Seekonk Lions please visit http:// www.seekonklions.org.

Rehoboth Garden Club News

Please mark your calendars for our next meeting in February.

Tips, Tools and Tales

Back by popular demand, this meeting will feature a special time to learn from each other, problem solve, and laugh a lot! Bringing something for show and tell is definitely encouraged. Event is Monday, February 3, 2020, at 6:00 pm. At the Carpenter Museum.

Rehoboth Minutemen / 13th Continental Regiment The Rehoboth Minutemen / 13th Continental Regiment carried the Rehoboth Guideon as they marched in the 399th Anniversary parade in Plymouth Ma. Twenty five members of the unit marched in the parade and set a display tent at Heritage Park.

On December 7th the unit will march in the Fall River Christmas parade. That will close our activities for another year.

The unit founded in 1992 has completed its 27th year. We have already accepted an invitation to march in the 400th Anniversary parade in 2020. We would like to have more Rehoboth residents join our ranks.

At this time we have 3 active members and one founding couple, who join for a few events that come from the Town of Rehoboth.

For information contact Cathy Potter Rehoboth1643@yahoo. com or visit www.13thcontinentalregiment.com.

Rehoboth Anawan Lions News

Happy December! The Rehoboth Anawan Lions are busy preparing for the upcoming holidays. We are again holding our annual Christmas Tree Lighting at the Memorial Gazebo on Sat. Dec 7., followed by games and refreshments at the Goff Hall. The festivities start at 3pm at the Gazebo. Santa is said to be on his way!! We are visiting Marion Manor and playing bingo with the residents as usual, we really enjoy that!! We will be having our annual Christmas Party the middle of December, always a great time! We are Thankful that our community does so much for the Club through the year.

Please feel free to contact anyone in the Anawan Lions if you are interested in joining our wonderful group of ladies.

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The Reporter December 2019

scouting around Scouting for Food

By Jakob Gries, Troop 1 Life Scout

Young men and women from Seekonk BSA Troop 1 & BSA Troop 9, with their parents and Doorways volunteers, at the end of a long day of collecting and sorting donations.

Scouting for Food is an annual program run by the Boy Scouts of America that collects food donations for local food banks.

Narragansett Council has been doing this for over 30 years. This year, Troop 1 Seekonk and Troop 9 Seekonk partook in Scouting for Food once again to help out our local community. The scouts went throughout the entire town of Seekonk and left flyers at over 5000 houses asking for non-perishable food.

The next week, they went back to collect these donations. Scouts then brought these

Lic# 11348B

donations to Doorways Food Pantry right here in Seekonk. Thanks to the generous Seekonk residents, Troop 1 and 9 were able to collect a record total of over 6600 pounds of food! Once the food had reached the food pantry, scouts stayed for another 2+ hours to help sort every single donation of food.

The troops chose to partake in this service not only because we have been doing so for years, but also because it really helps. Every single donation stays right in Seekonk and goes to those in need which means that by doing this, we can make a huge impact on our community. This is why we would like to thank all food donors on behalf of Troop 1, Troop 9, Doorways Food Pantry, and all those in need who will benefit from these generous donations. Furthermore, Scouting for Food is not the only time we participate in the great work being done by those at the food pantry. Members of both troops go out every Saturday year-round to deliver this same food to those in need who are unable to get to the food pantry on their own.

The troops are always welcoming new members, ages 11+. We invite you to learn more about Scouts BSA, by contacting us: Email the boy’s troop: Troop1SeekonkMA@Gmail.com Email the girl’s troop: Troop9SeekonkMA@Gmail.com Website: http://troop1seekonk.org

Two BSA Scout Troops Combine for Doorways Food Pantry

CircuitWay@hotmail.com

Doorways Food Pantry extends its’ thanks to thank the scouts (and parents!) of BSA Troop 1 & BSA Troop 9, who con-

Scouts and Doorways volunteers unloading donations to be sorted ducted their annual food drive in November and collected over 5,000 pounds of food for the pantry. The scouts and their parents not only collected the food, but they then transported it to Doorways and helped sort and stack the donations. In addition to their food drive, these scouts serve year round, as each family takes a turn delivering groceries to ten local families who are homebound, and who would be forced to go without if not for their caring service. We appreciate the time and hard work of the scouts, and the time and hard work of their parents. Doorways also wants to thank the residents of Seekonk for their generous outpouring in support of the Scout’s food drive – your donations will fill the cupboards and grace the dinner tables of homes throughout our community this holiday season. You are a blessing to us all.

Rehoboth Den 3 of Pack 1 Scout News Scouts from Den 3 of Pack 1 Rehoboth have had a busy month working towards their “Collections and Hobbies” and “Hometown Heroes” adventure requirements. On Wednesday, October 23rd they visited the Carpenter Museum to learn about collections. The boys enjoyed seeing different collections of arrowheads, cookware, and tools. On Wednesday, November 6th they visited the Rehoboth Police Station. Officers Wetherell, Pezzuolo, and Miranda gave the scouts a tour of the station and held a Q & A session afterwards. The Wolf scouts were thrilled to get a behind the scenes tour and were eager to ask officers questions. A huge thank you to both places for taking the time to show the scouts around!

December 2019

The Reporter

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News from Troop 420 in Seekonk

While working on our “Make the world a better place” badge, our troop put together a Thanksgiving basket, which we donated to the local organization a Children’s Friend. This organization supports vulnerable children and families in the foster care system.

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54

The Reporter December 2019

Rehoboth Ramblings

by Leslie Patterson

Gift Me No Gifts I don’t know why I get so annoyed by the new trend of using “gift” as a verb, as in “he gifted me with a new ring.” For example, I’m looking at a glossy magazine ad from Hermes that says “Gift Me a Dream.” Of course, for the French people at this tres chic fashion empire, English is their second language.

This usage of “gift” has obviously become acceptable because even the most admired and respected writers use it, but it just sounds so wrong to me, almost as jarring as hearing someone say “I seen” or “he come over.” Gift as a verb is used strictly for gift-giving or receiving; otherwise you still use “gave”. You wouldn’t say “the meter maid gifted me with a parking ticket” or at least I wouldn’t. Ah well, no one is making me use the word gift in this way so I’ll continue to avoid it.

The gift I would most like for Christmas is a visit from the junk removal people. Please, take things away; don’t give me more stuff. Ironically, Marie Kondo, the Japanese queen of tidying-up, is now selling merchandise online, such as simple but elegant Japanese slippers for over $200. None of these items are cheap, such as a $50 Chakra tuning fork (with $75 it comes with a crystal).

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People are asking: “More stuff to have to throw away later, Marie?”

Or perhaps “gift” to someone else down the line. I assume all the items are intended to “spark joy” but give me a break.

The gift I would least like for Christmas is one of those silly Christmas costumes for adults that I just saw at Target (and presumably are for sale all over the place). I know that the ugly Christmas sweater contest has become quite a thing at the holidays, but why an entire garish outfit? Is it Christmas or Halloween? Of course, these days Christmas seems to start right after Halloween.

If you’re one of the many people who hate the early darkness of winter afternoons, here’s something to think about. If you look at the sunrise/sunset chart for this area in December, you’ll see that the earliest sunsets occur at 4:13 p.m. from Dec. 7-10, so by the Winter Solstice the evenings are already getting lighter, however slightly. Winter Solstice on Dec. 21 is still the day with the shortest amount of daylight overall; it’s six hours darker than on the Summer Solstice.

The reason for this is the elliptical pattern of the Earth’s orbit.

This also means that sunrises run a bit later, even into January, but most of us mind the dark more in the evening anyway. You wouldn’t think just a couple more minutes of light in late afternoon would mean much, but it does provide a lift. I always look up photos of people celebrating the Winter Solstice at Stonehenge but I wouldn’t really want to be hanging out on Salisbury Plain before dawn in the dead of winter.

This year we’re planning to visit a new holiday light display at the Eleanor Cabot Bradley Estate in Canton. This is a first for this historic estate that is managed by the Trustees of Reservations.

The other locations for “Winterlights” are in Stockbridge and North Andover, so this one in Canton is more convenient for those of us south of Boston. It is open on Friday, Saturday, and Sundays nights from 5 to 8 p.m. until Dec. 29. Check www.thetrustees.org/ winterlights for more details on tickets, parking, etc.

Speaking of the dark, when reading Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Raven” recently I was reminded that the despairing poet sets his verse “in the bleak December”. The dark days can be even harder on those suffering from the loss of a loved one, as Poe writes of “the lost Lenore”. As another American author, the songwriter Stephen Foster, wrote: “Let us pause in life’s pleasures and count its many tears” and take a moment to think of all those we know who will have a difficult holiday season due to a tragic loss or some other trouble, whether recently or at holidays past. How difficult it must be for a lot of people this time of year when everyone else seems to be celebrating.

And now here it is almost 2020, a date that still looks funny to me. Where did the past two decades ago, I wonder? Already we’ve seen many quips about 2020 and perfect vision, being able to see clearly, etc. Being able to see clearly (literally and metaphorically) would be a great gift for all in the coming year.

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December 2019

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Audubon Society Of Rhode Island Unless noted, registration is required for all programs. A complete listing of activities and programs are detailed in the Audubon Nature Tours and Programs, a free guide to connecting with the natural world. Register online at www.asri.org or call (401) 949-5454.

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December 2019 Programs and Events

Bundle ‘em up and head outside to search for owls on the evening trails, bring the brood for December School Vacation Week, or enjoy a guided winter walk with the kids.

Celebrate the season at Audubon in December!

Unless noted, registration is required for all programs. For a complete listing of Audubon activities and programs, visit the events calendar at www.asri.org or call (401) 949-5454 ext. 3014.

Owl Prowl at Fisherville Brook

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Audubon Holiday Craft Fair Artisan Gifts with a Natural Flair

Audubon Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge, Smithfield, RI December 7, 2019; 10:00 am – 4:00 pm With local vendors selling a variety of nature and wildlife related wares, you are sure to find perfect gifts for the nature enthusiasts on your list. Jewelry, children's items, ornaments, stationery and other locally made treats are just a few items to choose from. Come shop, sip warm cider and enter the raffle for a chance to win a handcrafted items donated by our artisans.

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Sea Glass Ornaments

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, Bristol, RI December 8, 2019; 11:00 am – 12:30 pm Come create a beautiful ornament with sea glass found on local beaches. Learn how to choose the right piece of glass and transform it using quick and easy wire wrapping techniques. Program includes all materials. Find something special on the beach? Bring that too! This class fills quickly, please register early.

Wreath Making for Wildlife

Audubon Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge, Smithfield, RI December 14, 2019; 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Make a winter wreath that is both beautiful and edible for birds and other wildlife. Using wire or straw wreath bases, add greens, dried flowers, seed heads, leaves, fruit and nuts to entice your continued on next page...

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56

The Reporter December 2019

feathered friends to visit. All items will dry nicely if you prefer to keep the wreath for decorative purposes. Each participant will make one wreath and materials will be provided. Participants may bring their own needle nose pliers or wire snips.

What Can I Do About It? Green Your Home Workshop

Audubon Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge, Smithfield, RI December 18, 2019; 6:30 – 8:00 pm Today’s global environmental problems can seem intimidating, but we can no longer avoid the facts and challenges of climate change. We all need be part of the solution by using environmen-

tally friendly products, reducing our carbon footprint, decreasing exposure to toxins, and reducing waste. But where to start? Come to Audubon and discover simple and effective housekeeping choices that support a greener lifestyle and can save money too. Learn how to make natural cleaners and find new uses for items found in your home. Set goals and learn how to reduce your carbon footprint!

Owls of Caratunk

Audubon Caratunk Wildlife Refuge, Seekonk, MA December 22, 2019; 1:00 – 3:00 pm There are a number of amazing species of owls that live in New England. You might have one in your own back yard! We’ll take a pictorial look at our native owls, hear their calls, learn about their remarkable adaptations and meet a live owl. Advance registration is required.

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Audubon Caratunk Wildlife Refuge, Seekonk, MA December 22, 2019; 6:30 – 8:30 pm Learn about the winter constellations at Caratunk and then head outdoors to view the moon, the Orion Nebula and more.

Francine Jackson, Staff Astronomer at Brown University will lead this evening program. There will be several telescopes available, but feel free to bring your own. Please for the weather. Hot drinks and light snacks will be provided.

December School Vacation Week

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, Bristol, RI December 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 2019; 10:00 am – 2:00 pm Don’t know what to do with the family during school vacation break? Audubon is the solution! Nature crafts will be from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. each day, as well as a nature story at 10:30 am and 2:30 pm. An animal interview will also be held at 1:30 pm. Special programs and activities are available each day and are free with admission. Registration is not required.

These special programs for children ages 6+ are available each day at 11:00 am.

Friday, December 27: Animal Babies Come learn all about our animal friends! Which animals lay eggs? Why do some have multiple offspring while others have only one? Can you match which babies belong to which adults?

Saturday December 28: Light & Color Create bubbles and crazy colors with experiments that will test your sensory abilities. What happens when you mix colors with saltwater, milk or oil? Are bubbles always round? How do animals use color to survive? Wear clothes that can get messy.

Sunday, December 29: Recycle Roundup Are you a pro at recycling? Come show off your skills and learn new things you can do to help our planet.

Monday, December 30: Outdoor Survival Learn how to survive outside by using what can be found in nature and by using the most important survival tool: your brain!

Tuesday, December 31: Nature Games Come play a variety of nature games with Audubon!

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Audubon Caratunk Wildlife Refuge, Seekonk, MA December 29, 2019; 1:00-3:00 pm Take a hike around Caratunk Wildlife Refuge and learn how winter affects the flora and fauna, including resident muskrat, otter, deer and Wild Turkeys. Warm drinks and snacks will be served. Please wear sturdy shoes and dress for the weather. Bring your binoculars and camera. Advance registration required. Ages 9 and up.

December 2019

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From the State House Representative Steven Howitt Supports Bill Expanding Student Access To School Breakfast

Boston – State Representative Steven Howitt R-Seekonk recently joined with his House colleagues to approve legislation designed to expand student access to school breakfast in lowincome communities.

House Bill 4218, An Act regarding breakfast after the bell, requires public schools to offer all students a school breakfast after the beginning of the instructional day if at least 60% of the students are eligible for free or reduced-price meals under the federal National School Lunch Program. The bill was engrossed by the House of Representatives on a vote of 156-0 on November 20.

According to the Ending Hunger in Our Classrooms 2019 Annual Report, Massachusetts ranks 33rd out of 50 states in the percentage of low-income children who eat a school breakfast every day. The report estimates that nearly 159,000 low-income students in the Commonwealth are not eating a morning meal at school each day.

Representative Howitt noted that the Breakfast After the Bell bill will help prepare students for learning by making sure they have access to a nutritious breakfast at the start of the school day. The bill allows schools to determine the breakfast service model that best suits its students’ needs, and to consult with non-profit organizations with experience addressing hunger and food security issues and best practices for improving student access to school breakfast.

House Bill 4218 requires the Department of Education and Secondary Education (DESE) to conduct an initial assessment of all schools that are eligible for the school breakfast program by December 31, 2021 so that schools are prepared to offer school breakfast programs by the beginning of the 2022-2023 academic year. The bill contains provisions allowing the school breakfast requirement to be waived for 1 year if a school shows it has a breakfast participation rate of 80% or higher using its current delivery model, or if the school demonstrates an extreme hardship related to implementation.

House Bill 4218 will receive further action through the Senate.

Representative Steven Howitt Supports Effort To Improve Road Safety

Boston – The House of Representatives has approved legislation that will soon mandate hands-free cell phone use while driving in Massachusetts.

House Bill 4203, An Act requiring the hands-free use of mobile telephones while driving, will extend the current ban on cell phone use by drivers under the age of 18 to include all Massachusetts drivers, following a 90-day phase-in period. The bill – which represents a compromise negotiated by a six-member House and Senate Conference Committee – passed the House on a vote of 154-1 on November 19.

The Senate is expected to vote on the Conference Committee report on November 20. Governor Charlie Baker will have 10 days to review the bill once it reaches his desk.

State Representative Steven Howitt, R-Seekonk, said he supports the new restrictions on cell phone use for motorists because it will help improve public safety and reduce traffic fatalities on the state’s roadways. Twenty other states – including Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Connecticut and Rhode Island – already ban the use of cell phones while driving.

Under House Bill 4203, Massachusetts drivers will face fines of up to $500 for using a hand-held cell phone for making calls, unless they are reporting an emergency. Drivers can still view GPS navigation with their cell phone, and can use a single tap or swiping motion to activate or deactivate their device’s hands-free setting.

Violators will be fined $100 for a first offense, $250 for a second offense, and $500 for a third and all subsequent offenses. The bill contains provisions allowing for the issuance of a warning for a first-time offense until March 31, 2020. It also requires the RMV, the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security’s Highway Safety Division, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, the Department of Higher Education, and municipal law enforcement to implement an annual public awareness campaign regarding the dangers of distracted driving.

House Bill 4203 also updates the state’s laws regarding data collected at traffic stops that result in a citation. The bill requires the RMV to collect data on the age, race and gender of the driver; the traffic infraction; the date, time and location of the offense; whether a search was initiated as a result of the stop; and whether the stop resulted in a warning, citation or arrest. The Secretary of Public Safety and Security will be responsible for transmitting this data to a public or private educational or non-profit entity for an annual analysis and report.

58

The Reporter December 2019

American Lung Association Applauds Landmark Legislation Making Massachusetts the First State to Permanently End the Sale of All Flavored Tobacco Products The Massachusetts State Senate today approved SB 2407, An Act to Modernize Tobacco Control, (32-6) which will prohibit the sale of all flavored tobacco products including e-cigarettes, men-thol cigarettes and chewing tobacco. The bill was passed by the House of Representatives on November 13th (127-31) and is expected to be signed by Governor Baker imminently, making Massachusetts the first state in the nation to pass a law to remove all flavored tobacco including e-cigarette products from the shelves.

“The American Lung Association is proud to congratulate the Commonwealth of Massachusetts on its bold leadership in modernizing its approach to tobacco control. By ending the sale of all flavored tobacco products including e-cigarettes, Massachusetts is protecting its youth from a lifetime of nicotine addiction and tobacco related illnesses,” said American Lung Association National President and CEO Harold Wimmer. “The legislative package that

now awaits Governor Baker’s signature stands to raise the bar for tobacco control across the country. Absent strong action from the federal government, we urge states and localities to follow Massachusetts’ lead. Clearing the market of all flavored tobacco products is critical to addressing the youth e-cigarette epidemic, just as increasing funding of tobacco cessation and prevention programs, and increas-ing taxes for vape products are proven effective tools in reducing tobacco use for all ages. This bill is a major win for the residents of Massachusetts and stands to positively impact statewide tobacco use rates, tobacco related death and disease, and tobacco related health costs.”

Flavored tobacco has been used to attract children and teens to tobacco for decades. Most recently, the CDC reported that 27.5% of kids are using e-cigarettes and that many initiated with flavored products. Fruit and mint and menthol are the most popular flavors among high school students using e-cigarettes, with 66.1% of kids using fruit-flavored e-cigarettes and 57.3% using mint or menthol e-cigarette flavors.

In addition to ending the sale of all flavored tobacco products, including ecigarettes, menthol cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco, the bill also delivers on a number of issues prioritized by public health advocates such as: • Adds an excise tax of 75% of wholesale price on e-cigarettes and ecigarette devices, bringing parity with combustible cigarettes in the state.

• Allocates 30% of the revenue from the vape tax to the Community Behavioral Health Promotion and Prevention Trust Fund for public health programs.

• Requires private insurers, the Group Insurance Commission, and Dr. Lisa Daft and Dr. Jared Stubbs MassHealth to provide coverage Dr. Lisa Daft Dr. Christina Sorensen for tobacco use cessation counselAre pleased to announce Dr. Chris Vanderpool ing and all generic Food and Drug has joined our family and cosmetic dental practice.

Admin-istration (FDA) approved tobacco cessation products with at Providing comprehensive dental care in least one product available with no out of pocket costs.

Seekonk, MA for more than 35 years.

• Increases fines for retailers who sell We welcome new patients! tobacco to youth and also for retailers who sell un-taxed tobacco products This legislation also stands to reduce the number of e-cigarette users amidst the mounting number of cases of lung injury from e-cigarettes. This bill is a vital example of state leadership in the absence of strong federal action, especially by the FDA. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and state and local departments of health continue to investigate, the American Lung Association applauds Massachusetts for putting the health and lives of is residents first in the face of a vaping-related public health emergency.

The removal of flavored e-cigarettes and insurance coverage for cessation counseling and products will go in effect immediately upon receiving the Governor’s signature.

All other flavored tobacco products will be removed from the shelves by June 1, 2020.

For more information please contact: Jennifer Solomon jennifer.solomon@lung.org (516) 680-8927

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December 2019

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59

Dighton Rehoboth Regional Letters to the Troops

The Dighton Rehoboth Regional School District is showing their debt of gratitude to the members of the 1st Armored Division Sustainment Brigade-Muleskinners out of Fort Bliss- ElPaso, TX. Mrs. Cathy Potter of Rehoboth who is heading up this project spoke to a few high school students this morning (Callie Gouveia-10, Rachel Zankul-10 and Derik Parker-9) along with Dr. Anthony Azar, Superintendent of Schools and Dr. John Gould, DRRHS Principal.

Her message was to explain to them some history of this unit and how their act of kindness from the students will mean to them. Each of the five schools in the district participated in creating Thanksgiving letters addressed to these service men and women expressing their thanks for their service to our country.

This unit is currently stationed in Afghanistan in support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel. For many of the soldiers, this is the first deployment away from home due to the fact many are 18 to 19 years old which is not much older than High School students.

Part of the Sustainment Brigade are capable of bringing pure water, fuel, and supplies to the soldiers of the 1st Armored Division or any unit they support in their area of operations.

It was refreshing to hear from Mrs. Potter who explained a statement from a young Palmer River Elementary student. Through the eyes of a child, he understands that he is thankful for their service to be afforded the opportunity to play soccer, baseball and, all the other fun things a kid can do.

(L to R) Cathy Potter, Dr. Anthony Azar, Superintendent of Schools, Devin Parker, Callie Gouveia, Rachel Zankul, and Dr. John Gould, DRRHS Principal

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The Reporter December 2019

News and Notes from.... Blanding Library

By Leslie Patterson

Gingerbread Houses Dec. 17 &18

Two sessions of “make your own gingerbread house” programs will be offered on Tues. and Wed. Dec. 17 and 18, from 3:30 to 5 p.m. both days. This popular holiday program is a free for children between the ages of 5 and 14, thanks to support from the Friends of the Blanding Library. Advance registration is required (call 508252-4236).

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Donations of “building supplies” for the gingerbread houses are welcome -- pretzels, gummies, wafer cookies, mini candy canes etc. Please, no chocolate or peanuts. Thanks!

Holiday Giving Tree

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The Christmas tree in the lobby of Goff Hall this month will be a “giving tree”. The library is collecting a variety of toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothpaste, etc.) to be donated to the Rehoboth Food Pantry. You can pick a card off the tree indicating what item to buy and bring it to the Blanding by Friday, Dec. 20.

Note that the Blanding lobby is also one of the drop-off spots for the Blizzard of Giving program in Rehoboth. This holiday project is separate from the library’s giving tree mentioned above. We encourage our patrons to participate in both in the spirit of the season.

As always, you can drop off food items for the Rehoboth Food Pantry or pet food and items for the Rehoboth Animal Shelter in boxes in the lobby.

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STORY & CRAFT HOURS for children ages 3 and up on Tuesdays at 10:15 from Dec. 3 to 17. TOT TIME with music and movement for little ones under 3 will continue on Wednesdays at 10:30 from Dec. 4 to 18. Please call or stop in to register.

YOGA FOR FAMILIES will next meet on Friday Dec, 13 at 10:15.

This is a free one-hour parent-child wellness event for parents with children from babies to age 8. This is sponsored by the PACE CW CFCE Program with funding from the Mass. Dept. of Early Education and Care. Contact Jocelyn at jcarvalho@paceccw.org or 508-984-3559.

LEGOS at the Library will next meet at the Blanding on Sat. Dec. 14 at 10:30 a.m., free and for all ages. We supply the Legos and you supply the imagination. Drop in and join this fun session, held on the second Saturday morning of each month.

BOOK CLUB On Wed. Jan. 8 at 7 p.m. the Blanding Book Club starts off the year with an entertaining memoir by acclaimed food writer and editor Ruth Reichl, “Garlic and Sapphires: The Secret Life of A Critic in Disguise”. Come join this fun and friendly group of readers. Copies of books selected will be available at the library.

HOLIDAY CLOSINGS the library will close at 4 p.m. on Dec. 24 for Christmas Eve and be closed all day on Christmas. It will also close at 4 p.m. on Dec. 31 and be closed on New Year’s Day. Regular hours are: Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The library is located in Goff Hall, 124 Bay State Rd. Rehoboth, phone 508-252-4236.

You can find out more about the library at www.blandinglibrary.net.

Thanks to all the staff and volunteers for all their work at the Blanding this past year, as we look forward to another busy and productive year at Rehoboth’s public library. Happy Holidays to all!

December 2019

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61

Seekonk Public Library www.seekonkpl.org • library@seekonkpl.org Family Holiday Programming Holiday Cards for Local Heroes Tuesday, December 10, 4 - 6 PM

It’s open craft time and we’ll be creating holiday cards for our local heroes, the Seekonk Police and Fire Departments. We will collect all completed cards and deliver them to the Seekonk Police & Fire prior to the holiday. All materials provided. Grades 1 -6. Drop in any time between 4-6pm.

Gingerbread Cookie Decorating

Tuesday, December 17, 4 PM or 5 PM

Join us for some festive cookie decorating. All materials provided. Grades 1-6.Registration required.

Programs for Children and Families Beyblade Club

Mondays, Dec 9 and 16 at 4 PM

Beybladers unite! Join your friends at the library for an afterschool Beyblade Club. Beyblade is a competitive game where spinning tops are launched into a stadium and clash until one is either left in the stadium or spins the longest. This game is fun to play and involves strategy, physics, and good sportsmanship. Kids are encouraged to bring their own Beyblades and stadiums. The library will have a limited number of Beyblades to share. “The focus of the club will be on casually playing and meeting other enthusiasts. One goal is to promote good sportsmanship by playing with a number of opponents and learning to be kind whether you win or lose.” Whether you’re already a Beyblade fan or just want to see what it’s all about, you’re invited to drop in and play!

School Vacation Specials Family Movie Matinee

touch and learn about some of the invertebrates you can see in our local waters.The program is for children in grades pre K - grade 1.

Siblings welcome. Registration required.

Mystic Aquarium’s Eat or Be Eaten Thursday, January 2, 4:15 PM

Grades 2 -5 Students may know about sharks, a predator that sits at the top of the ocean food chain. But how many know about plankton, the often microscopic plants and animals that make up the base of the food chain? Both groups are critical for life in the ocean and would not exist if it weren’t for the other. In this presentation children will explore the ocean’s food web’s links and discover who eats whom, how they do it, and why. After the 20-25 minute presentation there will be time to touch and learn about some of the invertebrates you can see in our local waters. This program is for children in grades 2- 5. Siblings welcome. Registration required.

Woodland Creature Cootie Catchers Friday, January 3, 10 AM - 12 PM

Stop by the Children’s Room and create a creature! You can choose from a fox, owl, hedgehog, squirrel, bunny, or raccoon. All materials included, no registration required. Grades 1-6. Drop in.

Library LEGO Mania

Saturday, January 4, 10 - 11:30 AM

Back by popular demand is Lego building! Take part in Lego challenges, work on a collaborative project or just enjoy “free build” time. Bring your creativity and we’ll provide the Legos! For inspiration we’ll have books on display that you can borrow and we’ll also have issues of Lego magazines to look through. Come and build with others who share a love of Legos. Drop-in.

Storytimes

Friday, December 27, 1 PM

New release or Family Favorite. Check Seekonk Library’s calendar of events for title, running time and rating. Drop in…and bring a friend!

Our storytimes focus on talking, singing, reading, writing and playing. Please bring your SAILS Library Card so that children can “browse and select” books to check out and take home.

New Year’s Party Horn Craft

Continued on next page ...

Saturday, December 28, 10 AM - 1 PM

Drop by the Children’s Room any time between 10am-1pm to make your own New Year’s Eve party horn. We’ll have materials for a few different designs, or come up with your own.

Watercolor Painting for Kids

Monday, December 30, 2 - 4 PM

Local artist and author Sue Greco will be leading a watercolor painting class for children ages 8 to 13. No experience necessary.

All materials provided. Registration is required. Register for waitlist at seekonkpl.org Calendar of Events.

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The Reporter December 2019

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Babies & Books

Monday, Dec. 9 at 10 AM For children birth - 24 months old This gentle yet lively program includes stories, fingerplays, songs, a musical instrument experience and BUBBLES!! Please bring your SAILS Library Card. Time will be set aside for children to check out a book and take it home.

Siblings always welcome. Drop in.

Toddler Storytime

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Tuesday, Dec. 10 at 10 AM Children 24-36 months old. Toddler Storytime is stories, fingerplays, music, a musical instrument experience, a take-home sheet or early literacy activity and yes, BUBBLES! Please bring your SAILS Library Card. Time will be set aside for children to check out a book and take it home. Siblings always welcome. Drop in.

Tabeley’s

Monday, December 16, 10 AM For children birth - 24 months. This storytime includes books, bubbles, fingerplays, music, singing and definitely jingle bells!!

Everyone is invited to wear red or green. Please bring your SAILS Library Card. Time will be set aside for children to check out a book and take it home. Siblings welcome. Drop in.

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Tuesday, December 17, 10 AM For children 24 - 36 months old. This storytime includes books, bubbles, fingerplays, music, singing, a craft and definitely jingle bells!! Everyone is invited to wear red or green. Please bring your SAILS Library Card. Time will be set aside for children to check out a book and take it home. Registration required. Siblings welcome.

Tween/Teen Programs

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All programs are for students in grades 6 – 12. Registration forms can be found on our website: seekonkpl.org/teens.

Teen Advisory Board

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Ornament Craft

Thursday, Dec. 19 at 3:00 pm

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Adult/Young Adult Programs Movie Night @ Seekonk Library

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Wednesday, December 18th @ 5:00 PM

Seekonk, MA – Skip the wait in movie theater lines and the expensive concession stand! Take some time for yourself and enjoy these select DVD releases for FREE at Seekonk Public Library. This program is free and open to the public.

December 2019 Join us as we celebrate the DVD release of this long awaited movie. Beloved favorites from the popular PBS series return as the Crawley family and their house staff prepare for a royal visit at the mansion.

Doors open for celebratory refreshments and a quiz at 5 PM; the movie begins at 5:30 PM to be followed by a prize drawing. Dressing up in your favorite historical British attire is welcome. Rated PG. Running time: 2 hours and 2 minutes. Licensing prevents us from printing titles; call the library for the title and other details at 508-336-8230 ext. 56130.

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

“Pinteresting” Craft Series

Seekonk, MA – Do you save ideas on Pinterest and never get around to making them?

This program is for you! We’ll learn a new skill at each meeting, creating in a stress-free, supportive environment. All supplies are provided.

• Tuesday, January 21: Ombre Spring Vases • Tuesday, April 21: Patriotic Wreath Please register for each session individually.

For more information, visit the library’s Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org, call the library at (508) 336-8230 or email library@seekonkpl.org.

Friends of the Library News Book Donations

If you are making space on your book shelves, please keep the library in mind. The Friends of Seekonk Public Library appreciate gently used book donations. (No text books, please.)

Book Pages

Book Pages is a selection guide for new books. If you are looking for some great gift ideas or attempting to discover your next great book stop by the library and pick up the latest issue. They are free, thanks to The Friends of Seekonk Public Library.

Passes Galore

Thinking about taking a day trip with friends or family members this December? The library has oodles of discounted museum passes for it’s patrons and residents of Seekonk, courtesy of the Friends of Seekonk Public Library. Check them out on the library’s website at seekonkpl.org.

A Universe of Stories Wrap-Up

Massachusetts Library System has released the statistics for summer reading 2019. Libraries throughout the state reached for the stars during the 2019 statewide Summer Library Program, “A Universe of Stories”! The numbers are in and 524,032 people attended over 21,650 programs for all ages at public libraries across the Commonwealth. This summer also launched over 132,000 participants from preschool to adult to participate in their Summer Library Program, 38,245 of those registering online. These numbers represent skyrocketing increases over 2018 for registration, programming, and attendance!

Participating libraries had a blast with the 2019 theme of space, finding it adaptable and appealing for a wide variety of ages. Libraries across Massachusetts were over the moon about the bookmarks, posters, and manuals they received as part of the statewide program. Many reported that they loved the connection with the 50th anniversary of the moon landing and found the artwork to be especially engaging and inclusive.

Massachusetts libraries are already planning for “Imagine Your Story,” the summer 2020 slogan inspired by fairy tales, mythology, and fantasy. Partnerships will include the National Network of Libraries of Medicine and the National Storytelling Network. For more information, contact your local public library.

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The Reporter December 2019

Bristol FFA has National Success in Indianapolis

Floriculture team members from left to right: Hannah Araujo, Kenzie Casper, Meaghan Herlihy and Kaci Leonard

Hannah Johnson, pictured here with her 1st place trophy at the State FFA Convention went on to deliver a speech about “Buying Local” at the National FFA Convention.

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Environmental Natural Resource team members from left to right: Savannah Puccio, Mollie Coyne, Jesse Power

Horse Evaluation team members from left to right: Eloise Fogg, Logan DeCourcey, Mia Oliveira and Riley Dustin

Twenty-seven members of the Bristol FFA Chapter traveled to the 92nd National FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis, Indiana. This was a special convention because it marked the 50th Anniversary of Women in FFA. Four teams from Bristol FFA earned the privilege of competing on the national level through their success at the state level. We are pleased to present the students (coincidentally, all young women) from Bristol Aggie that represented Massachusetts this year at the convention.

Floriculture - 9th Place - Gold Team In the Floriculture CDE, FFA members test their knowledge and skills in the production and retailing of flowers, plants and foliage. Participants must complete a general knowledge exam on the floriculture industry, identify plant materials, demonstrate problem solving and decision-making skills, employment and customer service skills, technical floral skills and the ability to work as a team.

• Kenzie Casper, Somerset - 15th place Gold Individual • Meaghan Herlihy, Middleboro - Gold Individual • Hannah Araujo, Rehoboth - Silver Individual • Kaci Leonard, Berkley - Silver Individual

• Savannah Puccio, North Attleboro Bronze Individual

Environmental Natural Resource Bronze Team The Environmental and Natural Resources CDE is a competitive event that allows students to apply classroom knowledge to real-life situations. This event focuses on testing students’ problem solving and decision making skills in environmental and natural resources. These areas concentrate on soil profiles, water quality, waste management, and use of global positioning units.

• Jesse Power, Plymouth - Gold Individual • Mollie Coyne, E.Bridgewater - Silver Individual

Horse Evaluation - Bronze Team The Horse Evaluation CDE is a competitive event that tests students’ ability to select and evaluate horses. Event components include eight selection classes consisting of four halter classes and four performance classes. Students also give four sets of oral reasons with two sets coming from each evaluation class. Teams also work together to complete practical activities and a team presentation.

• Eloise Fogg, Somerset - Silver Individual • Mia Oliveira - Silver Individual • Logan DeCourcey, Kingston - Bronze Individual • Riley Dustin, Dighton - Bronze Individual Prepared Public Speaking During the Prepared Public Speaking Leadership Development Event (LDE), students write and deliver a six to eight minute speech about a current agriculture-related topic. Students research a topic of interest and then put together a creative, informative speech. The speech is then presented to a panel of judges, who score the student based on the speech’s content, composition and delivery.

• Hannah Johnson, Rochester – Bronze Individual This year’s National FFA Convention had over 68,000 people registered. While in Indianapolis, students had the opportunity to participate in sessions held at Lucas Oil Stadium and the Indianapolis Convention where they listened to motivational speakers and visited hundreds of agricultural companies. There were dozens of student and teacher workshops, a Career Show and Expo, educational tours, community service activities, and concerts by Old Dominion and Brett Young.

December 2019 Additionally, the Bristol FFA chapter presented at the Expo’s Hall of States. This is an area where each state can display and present about agriculture in their state. The Bristol FFA display talked about the various areas of agriculture in Massachusetts, but also featured various women farmers that are making an impact in the agriculture industry throughout the commonwealth. Massachusetts was the lead the tides of change when it came to including women in the organization. Even though it was not a popular stance across the nation, in 1931 Massachusetts was the first state organization to allow women into the organization.

Some students attended the convention with the sole purpose of expanding their knowledge of the agricultural industry and developing leadership skills. Students also took part in a National Day of Service. Twelve Bristol FFA students spent the day renovating, painting, clearing spaces for two organizations in Indianapolis, the Fay Biccard Glick Neighborhood Center and the Big Car Collaborative These students truly made a large impact during their short time in Indianapolis as they persevered through the cold, wind and snow that welcomed us during their time in Indianapolis.

Bringing the Harvest Indoors

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The EvanLEE Organics indoor grow racks will provide nutrient dense, organic greens for salads, basil for the cafeteria’s homemade pesto and a variety of greens and herbs for smoothies. The grow racks are low maintenance, require once a week watering, use timed LED lightbulbs and produce a harvest every 18 days. Students and staff will have access to fresh greens that are produced feet away from where they are served. Bristol County Agricultural High School’s Superintendent, Adele Sands commended Vernazzaro and her staff on their eagerness to bring fresh local food to the school community. “This initiative speaks volumes about the commitment and passion that this department has for providing healthy, nutritious, locally sourced, home-made food to our students. This cafeteria is like no other.”

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It is that time of year again. The temperature is cooling, the leaves are shifting in color, and the crop fields appear barren. It is the end of the growing season here on the Southcoast, or is it?

The Food Services Department at Bristol County Agricultural High School is doing their best to change that. Theresa Vernazzaro, Food Services Director and her staff make every effort to source local product for the lunches served in Bristol Aggie’s cafeteria.

As often as possible, fresh produce and meats are sourced right from the fields of the school through the BA Grows Garden and Animal Science Department. Additionally, Vernazzaro works with local farmers and even local fishermen to secure the fresh catch -of-the-day. “ The students really enjoy the daily salad and smoothie options” said Vernazzaro and that is what led her to explore the possibility of bringing the growing process inside cafeteria. After receiving a grant through the New England Dairy Council, Vernazzaro secured the EvanLEE ORGANICS’ Grow Rack. With assistance from the EvanLee representative and the junior Floriculture students, the racks were installed and have been growing over the last few weeks.

This week, the Bristol Aggie Food Services Department harvested their first crop of greens. The beautiful, nutritious produce was incorporated into the school’s lunch entrée and daily salad options for the students and staff.

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66

The Reporter December 2019

SEEKONK SCHOOL NEWS ...more on 73 Seekonk High Snow Day Video

Seekonk Kindergarten Registration

By Joe Siegel

The Seekonk Public Schools will be having Kindergarten registration daily during the month of January, 2019 from 10 AM-2 PM. Aitken School and Martin School will each hold an evening registration on January 29, 2019 from 5:30-6:15 PM, as well.

If your child will be 5 years of age by August 31, 2020, you may register your child at the school he/she will be attending. If you are unsure of your child’s school, please feel free to call either school for the information.

Registration packets may be picked up at your child’s school or downloaded from the Seekonk Public Schools website, and completed prior to your child being fully registered.

To register your child you will need: Proof of residency Your child’s original birth certificate (copy will be made) Immunization record Completed registration and home language survey documents Kindergarten screening will be held on March 2, 9 and 16 during the school day. Appointments will be made when you register your child for school.

Registration packets are available at either school beginning January 6, 2019. Please feel free to call Aitken School (508) 3365230 or Martin School (508) 336-7558 if you have any questions.

To celebrate the first big snowstorm of the winter, the staff and students of Seekonk High School have produced a humorous video featuring some prominent school officials.

Titled “Best Day Ever,” the 2 minute video begins with television production teacher Tony Gugliotta playing a television weatherman.

“And that weather hovering right over the Seekonk area, it looks like we’re gonna have a snow day,” says a smiling Gugliotta, a former reporter for WJAR/Channel 10.

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Images of students sledding, skiing, and sliding in the snow are set to a rock/funk beat.

“We’re giving you the day off,” sing the principals of the Seekonk schools.

Seekonk Superintendent Rich Drolet also appears in the video, along with high school staff members.

The song advises students to use their free time to help their parents with household chores and to avoid “too many video games” because “they will corrupt your brain.”

The video has already been viewed more than 2000 times on YouTube. It can be seen on the STV News Seekonk page. In a tweet posted Tuesday morning, Drolet thanked Gugliotta and Pete Bredemeier for their work on the video.

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December 2019

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67

Palmer River Elementary School A Snapshot of Learning

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It is an honor to be selected as Mrs. Sullivan’s STEAM Assistant. Pictured above, Cameron D. from our kindergarten is helping our Mrs. Sullivan with materials, lesson details and more. Cameron was selected because he demonstrated the Palmer River expectations of being safe, respectful, and responsible while working in STEAM. In other STEAM news, Logan L., below,also a kindergarten student is developing his skills as an engineer. Students were challenged to draw a monster, inform how many eyes, legs, arms, and heads it had, then create it using various supplies. This helps to teach the drafting and design steps as well as planning and execution.

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68

The Reporter December 2019

Let’s Twist Again

Staff and students in the second grade incorporated festivities of the “Fifties” into their curriculum in celebration of the 50th day of school.

The students learned quite a bit about the good ol’ days before technology. Poodle skirts abounded as our young ladies dressed for the decade. Pictured below are Corey G. and Mia S. Pictured left Joshua H. and Mr. Lapre pose after Mr. Lapre’s rendition of Elvis’ “Jailhouse rock”. The “sock hop” proved to be a great celebration of everyone’s hard work these past months.

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December 2019

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69

Zooarchaelogy

Fourth graders in Mrs. Silveria’s classroom try their luck at zooarchaelogy. These young Palmer River scientists are captured investigating how animal skeletons and skulls help animals adapt.

Pictured here are Roc F., Ella D. and Sophie-Louise N. The students have learned a great deal from these artifacts and will incorporate their findings into a scientific hypothesis.

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The Reporter December 2019

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Career Day!

We extend a great big “Thank You” to all of the parents that joined our second graders at our recent “Career Day” luncheon.

All of the students were excited to meet and interview a variety of guests. Once introduced, Volunteers joined the students and entertained all of their questions and wonders. The event was organized to help students to learn more about professions that serve us all in our local community. Pictured above - MA State Trooper, David Walczak, father of Raegan and Elise D. and her mom, a surgeon, Dr. DeSousa (below).

December 2019

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The Beckwith Chronicle www.drregional.org

Dates to Remember

12/10 School Committee Meeting 6:30pm 12/12 BMS Band Concert (@DRRHS) 12/16 BMS Chorus Concert (@DRRHS) 12/17 Grade 8 Field Trip 12/19 PTSA Meeting at PRES 12/23-1/1 No School- Holiday Recess

Grade 8: Nevaeh Sullivan, Ashley Pellechio, Sydney Pestana, Ava Wasylow, Aidan LeBlanc, Jaylin Gaudreau, Eva Maloof, and Rowan Whittaker

Students of the Month

The following students were presented with Student of the Month Certificates for the month of October: Gr. 8 – Delaney Hayden/Zachary Petzold Gr. 7 – Emily Marquis/Patipan Sintorn Gr. 6 – Molly House/Blaze Coogan Gr. 5 – Katherine Silva/Benjamin Talbot Related Arts –Ella Enos/Joshua Roulier

Historic Raiders Soccer Season

The Beckwith Raiders boys’ soccer team just completed a historic season. The boys finished the season undefeated winning another Massasoit League title. Throughout the season, the team dominated their opponents scoring an amazing 68 goals while only surrendering 6 goals. The scoring difference is the best in the history of the school program. The high powered offense was a total team effort. The Raiders had sixteen different players score goals during this incredible season. The boys displayed a sharp passing game that led to many scoring opportunities. Like any great team, there was more than offense. The dominating defense controlled most of the games shutting down the opponents. If the opponents were able to get through the defense, our solid goal keepers did their job! This 2019 group will go down as one of the best teams in the history of the school. Players this year included: Dylan Andreozzi, Trey Brierly, Chayce Bryant, Sean Callaghan, Travis Chartier, Ethan Coyne, Liam Hannon, Ian Hoskins, Will Hoskins, Matty Suprenard, Tim Zibrida, Brayden Campos, Tiago Conceicao, Jonny Franco, AJ Gesner, TJ Levisee, Ben Miller, Ryan Moitoso, Brennan Silva, and James Dias. Coach Freeman would like to thank her boys for a wonderful season of dedication and teamwork!

Beckwith students art was displayed by Miss Faletra at the Dighton Arts Festival

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Believers Participate in Jamboree

The Beckwith Believers Unified Club traveled to Case Middle School for their annual Bocce Jamboree. The players had a blast using their skills and even participated in the “WAVE” and some other cheers. Congratulations Believers! We are looking forward to a great basketball season!

Art at Dighton Art Festival

Congratulations to the following students whose artwork was selected to be displayed at the Fifteenth Annual Dighton Arts Festival on November 3! The Dighton Arts Festival is a celebration of music and art where local and regional artists display and sell their artwork.

Grade 5: Phoenix Machie, Samuel Pickford, Allison Mandeville, Addison Hoyle, Damien Landry, and Benjamin Talbot Grade 6: Henry Murdock, Madeline Stchur, Riley Clement, Isabella Bouchard, Catherine Bredemeier, Madison Williams, Gracelin Iafrate, and Anders Nicholson Grade 7: Skyla Perry, Olivia Visinho, Aubree Miller, Hailey McCracken, Christiano Arruda, Sophie DiRenzo, Ethan Antepenko, and Abigail Salwierz

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The Reporter December 2019

Nurse’s Notes

To the parents of 6th grade students who will enter 7th grade in the year 2020-21: The MA Department of Public Health regulations require incoming 7th grade students to have had the Tdap booster (Tetanus with pertussis component) and a 2nd Varicella vaccine (chicken pox) or be subject to exclusion from school. Also, a current physical exam from their pediatrician is required to be on file in the nurse’s office for entrance into 7th grade. There will also be a new requirement set forth in the next school year for all 7th graders to have a meningococcal conjugate vaccine unless a religious or medical exemption applies.

For the general student population: Students who participate in inter-scholastic sports must provide a physical YEARLY in accordance with the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association regulations. If one is not received, the student will sit out of practice and/or games.

curacy and reliability. Using a library database can save students time because they do not have to evaluate whether or not the information they collect is reliable. Besides being trustworthy, many of our library databases have leveled content that is appropriate and accessible for middle school readers. One of the databases, Britannica School Middle, includes features that permit students to toggle to higher or lower reading levels, and all of the databases include a text-to-speech tool so that the content can be read aloud to students. None of this content is free, but federal and state funds support our school subscriptions to library databases.

How can students and their families access the library databases? Visit our Beckwith Library Webpage at https://bms.drregional. org/our_school/library___media_center (a link can be found by visiting the Beckwith Middle School Homepage, and then looking for the link, “Library/Media Center” under the heading “Our School.” Once there, select “Find Information”). Students at Beckwith are being taught how to access and use these databases in collaboratively taught lessons in our school library.

Beckwith Robotics Teams

Library Databases Can Support Student Learning

It is tempting to think that all the information that we need we can find using Google or other search engines, but anyone can post information on the internet, so it is not always easy to find trustworthy information. That’s where library databases can be an invaluable resource for students because databases only include information from credible sources.

A library database is an indexed collection of articles from encyclopedias, reference books, magazines, academic journals, newspapers, and other sources that have been evaluated for ac-

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The 2019-2020 FIRST LEGO League robotics season is underway and the Beckwith Robotics Teams have been selected. Beckwith’s Robotics Team Members are The City Sluggos: Evan Watts, Malakai Risotti, Jonah Hebda, Landon Paquette, Aidan Benjamin, Cyrus Duczkowski and Jack Swan and The City Croissants: Kylee Berwick, Riley Clement, Alex Verma, Anders Nicholson, Jaelyn Johnson, Chase Cooper and Connor Bessette.

This year’s theme is City Shaper and the students need to try and improve their local community. They are hard at work identifying a problem and coming up with an innovative solution; simultaneously they are designing, building and programming their robot. One team is comprised of 5 veterans with 2 rookies (the City Sluggos) and another team made entirely of 7 rookies (the City Croissants). The veteran team is helping the new team through the process by sharing their experiences and the lessons they have learned from years past.

Our teams will be competing at the qualifying tournament on Sunday Dec. 15th at the Gordon School in East Providence from 8am to 4 pm. It is free and open to the public after 12 noon. Come and cheer our teams on. The teams are hoping to qualify for the State Championship Tournament slated to be held in January. Every year the pressure on the teams builds since the past six teams have made it to States and this year’s teams want to keep that streak alive.

Coach Kenny would like you to join him in wishing these teams much success this year. Finally a special thank you to Mr. Jeffrey Greenberg who once again has volunteered to coach and we could not have competed this year without his help and support, thank you Coach Greenberg.

FIRST is an acronym: For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology and has Dr. Woodie Flowers, a longtime FIRST Advisor said “Societies get the best of what they celebrate.”

Let’s all celebrate what these future engineers and leaders are doing now.

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Author Bill Harley Visits Beckwith Fifth Graders!

On Wednesday, November 20, 2019, Bill Harley, author of Night of the Spadefoot Toads and other novels, visited grade 5 students in the Beckwith library/media center. Students recently read Night of the Spadefoot Toads and were able to ask Mr. Harley specific questions about the setting, characters, and plot. Mr. Harley spoke about the writing process, working with editors and making revisions, and how he develops characters when writing novels.

Students and teachers enjoyed Mr. Harley’s engaging talk and thank the PTSA for funding this exciting presentation!

December 2019

Principal’s Message Beckwith Middle School-Living WRITEously

Dear Families, This year we are focusing on the instruction of writing in all content areas- particularly explanatory writing. Our emphasis is for our students to write a clear, fully-developed central idea (claim), select and explain evidence and details that support the central idea, effectively organize their writing, and understand the purpose for writing. Writing instruction is completed through the writing process where teachers provide support and specific feedback to students. Students draft, revise, and re-draft to complete a final product. Students are assessed using on-demand writing assessments that require students to apply the knowledge of writing to answer a prompt.

We hope to teach students how to effectively communicate their ideas through writing by consistently stating a claim and supporting the claim with reasons and evidence. This advanced skill is required throughout students’ educational careers and beyond. Students use critical thinking to analyze texts or sources, synthesize information, and explain answers coherently. Our goal this year is to support students by providing instruction, practice, and feedback specific to criteria of explanatory writing. We also hope to give students an opportunity to demonstrate their writing skills in on-demand settings with minimal support. It is essential for students to apply the skills learned when presented with prompts on assessments and other authentic writing opportunities.

Teaching writing is more than presenting various genres in ELA class. It is necessary to teach writing skills in all classes since writing is an essential skill to effectively communicate thinking required in all content areas. Effective written communication skills learned now will hopefully enable our students to become valuable members when working as part of a group as well as when working independently to accomplish a goal.

MORE SEEKONK SCHOOL NEWS Seekonk Child Find

As part of the Child Find process, the Seekonk Public Schools will be conducting preschool screening for children who will be turning 3 or 4 years of age by August 31, 2020 and are residents of Seekonk.

A development, social skills, and speech and language screening will take approximately one hour and will be held Monday March 16th through Friday March 20th at Aitken and Martin Schools.

This screening serves two purposes; first, it identifies preschool age students who may be in need of special education services.

Second, it allows children to be eligible to enter the lottery for available model spots in the Seekonk Public Schools Integrated Preschool Program.

Please feel free to call Aitken School at (508) 336-5230 or Martin School at (508) 336-7558 if you have any questions.

Seekonk Child Find and Pre-School Screening Registration The Seekonk Public Schools has an integrated preschool program that is located at Aitken and Martin Schools and serves 3 and 4 year-old students. The preschool classes have model students and students on Individualized Education Plans. Each year, model, tuition-paying students are drawn by lottery for available spots. In order to be eligible for the lottery, students must register and be screened in March.

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If interested in having your preschool aged child screened as part of Child Find or to be a potential model student, you may register your child. Pre-school screening registration for all Seekonk students turning 3 or 4 years of age by August 31, 2020 will be held beginning January 6th 2019. You may register your child daily from 10 AM-2 PM or in the evening on January 29th, 2019 from 5:30-6:15.

All registration forms may be picked up at Aitken or Martin School beginning January 6th, 2019 or downloaded from the Seekonk Public Schools website. Appointments for screenings will be made when you register your child.

Feel free to call Aitken School at (508) 336-5230 or Martin School at (508) 336-7558 if you have any questions.

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74

The Reporter December 2019

Seekonk...

Winter Sports Schedule

Seekonk/DR Hockey

Saturday, Dec. 14 Middleboro 5 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 21 Wareham 5 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 28 at Bourne 3 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 2 at Old Rochester 5:15 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 4 Somerset Berkley 5 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 8 Durfee 5 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 11 at Apponequet 5 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 15 GNB Voc-Tech 5 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 18 at Wareham 4 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 22 Bourne 6 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 25 Old Rochester 4 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 29 at Somerset Berk 7 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 8 Apponequet 4 p.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 12 at GNB Voc-Tech 4 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 15 O’Bryant 5 p.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 19 Attleboro 6 p.m.

Boys Basketball

Tuesday, Dec. 17 Wednesday, Dec. 18 Friday, Dec. 20 Monday, Dec. 23 Monday, Dec. 30 Friday, Jan. 3 Tuesday, Jan. 7 Friday, Jan. 10

Prout 6:30 p.m.

Blackstone Valley 6:30 p.m. at Old Rochester 6:30 p.m. at Norton 6:30 p.m. at N. Smithfield 7 p.m.

Wareham 6:30 p.m. at Bourne 6:30 p.m.

GNB Voc-Tech 6:30 p.m.

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Tuesday, Jan. 14 Friday, Jan. 17 Tuesday, Jan. 21 Friday, Jan. 24 Tuesday, Jan. 28 Friday, Jan. 31 Tuesday, Feb. 4 Friday, Feb. 7 Tuesday, Feb. 11 Friday, Feb. 14 Tuesday, Feb. 18 Thursday, Feb. 20

Monday, Dec. 16 Monday, Dec. 23 Friday, Dec. 27 Monday, Dec. 30 Friday, Jan. 3 Tuesday, Jan. 7 Friday, Jan. 10 Tuesday, Jan. 14 Friday, Jan. 17 Tuesday, Jan. 21 Friday, Jan. 24 Monday, Jan. 27 Tuesday, Jan. 28 Friday, Jan. 31 Tuesday, Feb. 4 Friday, Feb. 7 Sunday, Feb. 9 Tuesday, Feb. 11 Friday, Feb. 14 Tuesday, Feb. 18

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Girls Basketball

Central Falls 6:30 p.m.

Norton 6:30 p.m.

Old Rochester 6:30 p.m.

West Bridgewater 6:30 p.m. at Wareham 6:30 p.m.

Bourne 6:30 p.m. at GNB Voc-Tech 6:30 p.m.

Dighton-Rehoboth 6:30 p.m.

Case 6:30 p.m.

Fairhaven 6:30 p.m.

Apponequet 6:30 p.m. at W. Bridgewater 6:30 p.m. at Old Rochester 6:30 p.m.

Wareham 6:30 p.m. at Bourne 6:30 p.m. at Fairhaven 6:30 p.m. at DR 1:30 p.m.

Case 6:30 p.m. at Somerset Berk 6:30 p.m. at Norton 6:30 p.m.

Boys and Girls Swimming

Tuesday, Dec. 17 Thursday, Dec. 19 Monday, Dec. 23

Tuesday, Jan. 7 Tuesday, Jan. 14 Thursday, Jan. 30

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at DR 6:30 p.m.

Case 6:30 p.m. at Fairhaven 6:30 p.m. at Apponequet 6:30 p.m.

Old Rochester 6:30 p.m. at Wareham 6:30 p.m.

Bourne 6:30 p.m.

Fairhaven 6:30 p.m. at Case 6:30 p.m.

Somerset Berkley 6:30 p.m.

Norton 6:30 p.m.

Dighton-Rehoboth 6:30 p.m.

Apponequet 3:45 p.m.

Brockton 4 p.m. at Old Rochester (Girls at 3:45, boys at 6 p.m.) at Apponequet 3:45 p.m.

Old Rochester 3:45 p.m.

Conference Championships 4 p.m. at Seekonk

Indoor Track at GNB Voc-Tech

Saturday, Dec. 14 Old Rochester noon Thursday, Dec. 19 Wareham 6 p.m.

Monday, Dec. 23 at Reggie Lewis 5 p.m. at Wednesday, Jan. 8 Case 6 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 15 Bourne 6 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 23 Fairhaven 6 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 8 SCC Championships at Reggie Lewis

3:30 p.m.

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December 2019

D-R/Seekonk Hockey

Saturday, Dec. 14 Saturday, Dec. 21 Saturday, Dec. 28 Thursday, Jan. 2 Saturday, Jan. 4 Wednesday, Jan. 8 Saturday, Jan. 11 Wednesday, Jan. 15 Saturday, Jan. 18 Wednesday, Jan. 22 Saturday, Jan. 25 Wednesday, Jan. 29 Saturday, Feb. 8 Wednesday, Feb. 12 Saturday, Feb. 15 Wednesday, Feb. 19

Tuesday, Dec. 17 Friday, Dec. 20 Monday, Dec. 23 Friday, Dec. 27

Sunday, Dec. 29 Friday, Jan. 3 Tuesday, Jan. 7 Friday, Jan. 10 Tuesday, Jan. 14 Friday, Jan. 17 Tuesday, Jan. 21 Friday, Jan. 24 Tuesday, Jan. 28 Sunday, Feb. 2 Tuesday, Feb. 4 Friday, Feb. 7 Tuesday, Feb. 11 Friday, Feb. 14 Monday, Feb. 17 Wednesday, Feb. 19

Friday, Dec. 13 Friday, Dec. 20 Friday, Dec. 27 Friday, Jan. 3 Monday, Jan. 6 Tuesday, Jan. 7 Friday, Jan 10 Tuesday, Jan. 14 Friday, Jan 17 Sunday, Jan. 19 Tuesday, Jan. 21 Friday, Jan. 24 Tuesday, Jan. 28 Sunday, Feb. 2 Tuesday, Feb. 4 Friday, Feb. 7 Sunday, Feb. 9 Tuesday, Feb. 11 Friday, Feb. 14 Wednesday, Feb. 19

Middleboro 5 p.m.

Wareham 5 p.m. at Bourne 3 p.m. at Old Rochester 5:15 p.m.

Somerset Berkley 5 p.m.

Durfee 5 p.m. at Apponequet 5 p.m.

GNB Voc-Tech 5 p.m. at Wareham 4 p.m.

Bourne 6 p.m.

Old Rochester 4 p.m. at Somerset Berkley 7 p.m.

Apponequet 4 p.m. at GNB Voc-Tech 4 p.m.

O’Bryant 5 p.m.

Attleboro 6 p.m.

Boys Basketball

Bourne 6:30 p.m.

Fairhaven 6:30 p.m. at Bishop Connolly 6:30 p.m. vs. Cardinal Spellman at Oliver Ames 6 p.m.

TBD at Oliver Ames 5 p.m.

Apponequet 6:30 p.m.

GNB Voc-Tech 6:30 p.m. at Somerset Berkley 6:30 p.m.

Seekonk 6:30 p.m. at Bourne 6:30 p.m. at Old Rochester 6:30 p.m. at GNB Voc-Tech 6:30 p.m. at Case 6:30 p.m.

Somerset Berkley 3 p.m. at Apponequet 6:30 p.m.

Wareham 6:30 p.m.

Old Rochester, 6:30 p.m. at Fairhaven 6:30 p.m.

Bishop Connolly 6:30 p.m. at Seekonk 6:30 p.m.

Girls Basketball

Bishop Stang 6:30 p.m. at Fairhaven 6:30 p.m.

Wareham 6:30 p.m. at Apponequet 6:30 p.m. at Bishop Stang 6:30 p.m. at GNB Voc-Tech 6:30 p.m.

Somerset Berkley 6:30 p.m. at Seekonk 6:30 p.m.

Bourne 6:30 p.m.

Dartmouth 1:30 p.m.

Old Rochester 6:30 p.m.

GNB Voc-Tech 6:30 p.m.

Case 6:30 p.m. at Somerset Berkley 2:30 p.m.

Apponequet 6:30 p.m. at Wareham 6:30 p.m.

Seekonk 1:30 p.m. at Old Rochester 6:30 p.m.

Fairhaven 6:30 p.m. at Dartmouth 6:30 p.m.

75

Winter Sports Schedule Saturday, Dec. 14 Monday, Dec. 23 Wednesday, Jan. 8 Thursday, Jan. 16 Thursday, Jan. 23 Thursday, Jan. 30

Saturday, Feb. 8

Indoor Track

Fairhaven at GNB Voc-Tech 3 p.m.

Boys Relays at Reggie Lewis 5 p.m.

NB Voc-Tech at GNB Voc-Tech6 p.m.

Somerset at GNB Voc-Tech 6 p.m.

Old Rochester at GNB Voc-Tech6 p.m.

Apponequet at GNB Voc-Tech 6 p.m.

SCC Championships at Reggie Lewis 3:30 p.m.

D-R/Bristol Aggie Wrestling

Wednesday, Dec. 18 Thursday, Jan. 2 Wednesday, Jan. 8 Wednesday, Jan. 15

at South Shore Voc-Tech TBA Southeastern Voc-Tech TBA at Tri-County Voc-Tech TBA Bristol-Plymouth/Coyle-Cassidy TBA

ATTN D-R and Seekonk Coaches:

We want to hear from you and highlight your student athletes. Please send game results, stats, write-ups, story ideas, photos, etc. to Sports@ReporterToday.com. We’ll post them on our website, www.ReporterToday.com, our Facebook page, The Reporter, and in this newspaper.

Make sure to follow our new sports-centered Twitter page, @ReporterSports1, for more news on D-R and Seekonk.

Good luck to all players and coaches this fall!

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The Reporter

76

The Reporter December 2019

SEEKONK SPORTS UPDATE Girls Soccer

The Warriors’ stellar season ended with a 4-2 playoff loss to Cardinal Spellman earlier this month. The game was the last one for Seekonk seniors Charlotte Drainville, Madison Meyer, Meredith Riordan, Page Fecteau, Mia DiBiase and captain Allison Houle. “They’re an awesome group,” coach Fil Fontes said after the game. “I don’t like to pick favorites, but they were one of my favorite groups to work with. They worked hard all season long, and as long as they can look in the mirror and say ‘I gave all I could’ I’m happy.” Seekonk finished the season with a school-record 15 wins.

Boys Soccer

Seekonk soccer coach Fil Fontes smiles with his seniors after their last game of the season

“ The Doorw

ay To Your Dreams”

M.G. Salois

Construction Co.

Established 1984 • Michael G. Salois, Owner (508) 222-2656 • Rehoboth, MA MG Salois Construction would like to say “Thank You” to our new and repeat customers for another successful year. Have A Safe and Happy Holiday Season... Mike This past summer we needed to have the outside of our house and garage either painted or have siding done. We did not know which way to go so we contacted Mike to set up an appointment to see what our options were. After discussing the numbers and going over the choices available to us we opted to go with a new type of siding that Mike recommended. Mike showed us a house with the new siding that he recently finished which clinched our decision. Mike and his crew did a great job in the prep work and siding of our house and garage. We are very happy with the new appearance of our house and garage and with all the work that Mike and his crew did. Mike also helped us with other projects that we needed to have done during the renovation. Everything was done in a timely manner and on the budget quoted.We are both extremely happy with his work and will contact Mike the next time we need any other projects done. We thank Mike and his crew for the great work they have done. ~David & Andrea, Rehoboth, Ma

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Colin Peterson scored on an assist from Jeff Michaud, but the goal wasn’t enough as the Warriors fell in the preliminary round of the playoffs, 2-1, to Martha’s Vineyard.

Coach Matt McCartin’s team battled hard all season long and made a huge push at the end of the season to qualify for the tournament. The Warriors finished the season 5-7-7.

Cross Country

Andrew Cabral and Abigail Tenreiro saved their best for last.

The stellar Seekonk runners had outstanding showings at the All-State Championships in Gardner last month with Cabral finishing fifth overall among the boys and Tenreiro placing 13th. The meet combined the best from all divisions across the Bay State.

They got to All-States after both posting top-three showings at the Eastern Mass. Div. 5 meet the week before.

Seekonk High School Sports Get a Boost

By Joe Siegel $200,000 was appropriated for a new athletic field at Seekonk High School by voters at last Monday’s town meeting.

“I am grateful that the town approved this first step,” said School Superintendent Rich Drolet on Tuesday. “Our goal is to improve our flagship field at SHS, and for all of our SHS athletic teams (which include football, boys and girls soccer, boys and girls lacrosse, boys and girls track and field, and girls field hockey) to be able to play on campus at our flagship field at SHS.” Drolet noted the town meeting appropriation approving will pay for the architectural and engineering design of the field. The school committee will go out to bid for the architectural and engineering design work this fall. The Town Moderator will appoint a Building Committee composed of Seekonk residents this winter.

“Work would not begin until the next phase is brought forward and approved via town meeting, which we hope would be brought forward and approved in the spring of 2020,” Drolet said.

Drolet said a new athletic field is badly needed for the school’s sports teams.

“Right now only our (high school) football and occasionally our (high school) soccer teams are able to play on this field,” Drolet explained. “If the next steps were to be approved at a 2020 Spring Town Meeting, then work on a new turf field would likely not begin until permitting processes were completed and approved in the fall of 2020 or the spring of 2021.”

December 2019

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77

Dighton-Rehoboth wins Thanksgiving Football Rivalry SEEKONK - If Thanksgiving morning was any indication, the rest of the South Coast Conference better be on alert for the Falcons and Warriors next year.

Junior quarterbacks John Marcille and JT Moran combined for almost 500 yards of total offense and seven touchdowns Thursday morning, but in this matchup of 2020 contenders, it was the D-R defense that made the biggest plays at the biggest moments.

The Warriors had two drives late in the fourth quarter down one score and with momentum on their side and failed to score both times. Moran was strip-sacked with 5:21 left with D-R senior linebacker Aidan Botelho recovering the fumble, and the Warriors’ final drive stalled a few minutes later as the Falcons held on for a 27-20 rivalry victory in front of a large, loud crowd at Connolly Field.

“It was nerve-wracking at the end,” D-R coach Dave Moura said. “That strip-sack was huge. We were on our heels and they smelled blood. We’re a young team, they’re a young team, but we made a play when we had to.”

The D-R defensive effort thwarted a stellar second half for the Warriors. Down 21-6 at halftime, Seekonk opened the second half with senior Robert Sheahan intercepting Marcille on the first play.

The Warriors then marched 79 yards on 13 plays with Moran scoring from 3 yards out on an option keeper.

Moran directed another scoring drive early in the fourth quarter, running for 23 yards and throwing for 50 on the 12-play, 82-yard scoring drive that ended with a 20-yard touchdown to an open Nathan Clarke up the middle of the field.

Seekonk had two more possessions but came up empty as the Falcons hoisted the trophy in victory.

“Our guys battled. It was a hard-fought game,” Seekonk coach Vernon Crawford said. “I’m just so proud of the kids and the coaches who got them ready to play today. We made a lot of mental mistakes and just couldn’t come out with the win today.”

Thanksgiving morning was the final game for seven Falcons: Marcus Moss, Ishmael Christmas, Aidan Botelho, Ashton Boyle, Miguel Garcia, Evan Gleason and Zach Larrimore. It was an extra-special ending for Moss, Gleason and Botelho as the three are the only Falcons to play all four years. “It’s been a long season with its ups and downs but this team has stayed together. We’re a family and we stick together, and (the victory) is the result,” Gleason said after the game. His words were echoed by Moss and Botelho.

“Everyone stepped up,” said Moss, who injured his knee earlier in the season and couldn’t suit up for the finale. “I’m so proud of these boys right here. They played hard the whole game.” “We busted our butts every day since freshman year,” Botelho said.

“So we feel like we deserve this. It feels amazing.” Moura said the group has been through a lot. “Those three guys, Botelho, Moss and Gleason, who have been here since freshman year, they’re persevered through everything. They were here two years ago when we lost on Thanksgiving, got embarrassed. Then they were here last year at Gillette Stadium (in the MIAA Super Bowl), and then they were able to win their last football game. They’ve seen the ups and downs. And the other four guys, they’re all contributed significantly throughout the year. It’s a great group, I’m really happy for them.”

Thanksgiving morning was also the final game for nine Warriors: Robert Sheahan, Julian Mendes, Miguel Jorge, Jack Murphy, David Pedro, Brendan Morales, Casey Brown, Austin Blanco and Jacob McKitchen. “They’re my brothers,” Murphy said of his fellow seniors. Crawford added that the seniors brought a lot of leadership to the Seekonk sideline. “They’re a great group,” Crawford said.

“Our seniors showed the rest of the kids how to be a Warrior and

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78

The Reporter December 2019

REHOBOTH SPORTS S: JT Moran 19-76, Jack Murphy 5-23, Robbie Lebeau 7-27, Nathan Clarke 1-7, William Smith 1-(-5).

Passing DR: John Marcille 9-16-166-4-2 S: JT Moran 21-41-229-2-0 Receiving DR: Ishmael Christmas 4-55, Brady Walsh 1-4, Jaren Ramos 2-51, Aidan Botelho 1-45, Wes McQuillan 1-11.

S: Nathan Clarke 9-95, Robbie Lebeau 3-14, Robert Sheahan 4-47, Jack Murphy 4-43, William Smith 1-30.

Girls Soccer

do things our way. I’m so happy for them.

I hope they stick around and come back around and keep supporting us.”

D-R 27, SEEKONK 20 Dighton-Rehoboth 0 21 6 0-27 Seekonk 0 6 6 8-20 Scoring Second Quarter DR: Ishmael Christmas 2 pass from John Marcille (Adam Pereira kick), 5:52 DR: Jaren Ramos 23 pass from John Marcille (Adam Pereira kick), 1:22 S: Nathan Clarke 35 pass from JT Moran (kick failed), 28.6

DR: Jaren Ramos 28 pass from John Marcille (Adam Pereira kick), 7.9 Third Quarter S: JT Moran 3 run (pass failed), 6:19 DR: Aidan Botelho 55 pass from John Marcille, 4:47 Fourth Quarter S: Nathan Clarke 20 pass from JT Moran (JT Moran run), 7:36 Statistics Rushing DR: Brady Walsh 11-69, Jaren Ramos 9-43, John Marcille 3-2, Aidan Botelho 3-12.

The Falcons won their first playoff game in style at home at Bliss Field early last month, downing Archbishop Williams 1-0 in front of a large crowd on a sunny afternoon. Senior Julianna DaCosta scored the only goal of the game early in the first half, and senior goalie Meg Reed preserved the shutout with several big saves. The Falcons fell in the Quarterfinals to second-seeded Dover-Sherborn on the road on penalty kicks after scoring twice in the final minutes to force overtime. Coach Trish Madsen’s squad finished the successful season 14-6.

Home Arena: New England Sports Village 1395A Commerce Way #100, Attleboro, MA

ort upp s e Com team! the

Complete schedule, fundraisers, and team information can be found on...

DR-Seekonk Co-op Hockey @DRS_Hockey DRS Hockey Parents Association 2019-20

Saturday Saturday Saturday Wednesday Wednesday Wednesday Saturday Saturday Saturday Wednesday

5:00 5:00 4:30 5:00 5:00 6:00 4:30 4:30 5:00 6:00

December 14 December 21 January 4 January 8 January 15 January 22 January 25 February 8 February 15 February 19

vs. Hull/Middleboro vs. Wareham/Carver vs. Somerset/Berkley vs. Durfee vs. Greater New Bedford vs. Bourne vs. Old Rochester/Fairhaven vs. Apponequet/Connolly vs. O’Bryant vs. Attleboro

Dighton-Rehoboth/ Seekonk Ice Hockey

Home Game Schedule 2019-20

Emily D'Ambrosio celebrates with Julianna DaCosta (7) after DaCosta put D-R up 1-0 with a goal early in the first half of D-R_s playoff victory

Cross Country

Dighton-Rehoboth had some solid performances in the Eastern Mass. Championships in Wrentham last month. Running in the Div. 4 race, Alex Violette led the pack with a 23rd-place finish in 17:23.78. Not far behind him were Jason Ruta in 52nd (18:05.27) and Ben Alves in 68th (18:28.54).

Isabel Murdock was the top finisher for the D-R girls team, crossing the finish line in 61st place in 22:07.27. She was followed

by Kiara Abrantes in 84th (22:46.66) and Kristin Corvi in 100th (23:18.74).

December 2019

UPDATE

The Dighton-Rehoboth soccer team was all smiles after its playoff victory

Unified Basketball

Seekonk and Dighton-Rehoboth met on the basketball court early last month, and there were plenty of fast-break layups, jump shots, assists, steals, rebounds, 3-pointers and even some blocked shots.

But more importantly, there were plenty of hugs, high-fives, celebrations, smiles and encouragement.

The Falcons and Warriors met in unified basketball action, and the two teams split the two games with Seekonk winning the first and Dighton-Rehoboth taking the second. Unified sports are an inclusive program that matches students with and without intellectual disabilities together on the same team.

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79

Mass One Chapter 9, National Camping Travelers Donate Toys for Rehoboth Kids to COA On November 2nd, Mass One Chapter 9, National Camping Travelers (a Masonic Family Camping Club) held its fall camp-in at the Munich Haus in Chicopee, MA. Our goals were to enjoy time with the 18 friends from CT 1 Chapter 6 and Mass One who came, and to contribute toys to our local community for children to receive this year for Christmas. We collected the above toys and monetary donations and presented them to Linda Sherman, Director of the Council on Aging in Rehoboth, MA. Ms. Sherman was thrilled to receive our donation of goodies, and on behalf of the Council on Aging wrote “Thank you, Mass One Chapter 9 and friends from National Camping Travelers for your generous donation of toys and cash gift for the children in our local community”.

A heart-felt “Thank you” to everyone who attended our event at the Munich Haus (and to Dave Fant for organizing the event)!

Mass One Chapter 9 hopes to make the fall camp-in toy donation an annual event. Please look for the date of our 2020 fall camp-in in future commuMs. Linda Sherman, Director nications.

Rehoboth Council on Aging and Mrs. Donna Howard, Secretary on National Camping Travelers Mass One Chapter 9.

Call 508.252.6575 to Advertise!!!

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Alek Diarbian helps Andy Cheng with his jump shot from the foul line during a recent unified basketball game between Seekonk and Dighton-Rehoboth

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80

The Reporter December 2019

Rehoboth Council on Aging A Municipal Department of the Town

55 Bay State Road, Rehoboth, MA 02769

Phone 508-252-3373 Fax 508-252-4617

Special Announcements for the Month

• The COA will be closed on at Noon on December 24th & December 25th • We are in desperate need of yarn to make hats • We are still in need of cotton or flannel fabric for our pillowcase project.

• We are donating “Baby Stuff” to new Moms at Sturdy Hospital. So if you love to knit, crochet, and/or sew and would like to make extra items. We will donate the items to Sturdy Hospital.

New Class: TapFit

Wednesdays @ 2:00

TAPfit is an exhilarating full body workout that utilizes dance moves, cardio, conditioning and strength training. You’ll use patented taps that fit over any flat bottomed shoe so you can create crisp tap sounds and literally hear every step of progress you’re making. Can be modified for any age or fitness level or even done from a chair.

Become a Tax-Aide volunteer

The local AARP Tax-Aide team needs more volunteers in our area.

Join the team. Become a Tax-Aide volunteer. With the help of people like you, AARP Foundation Tax-Aide offers free taxfiling help to those who need it most. We’re looking for compassionate and friendly individuals to join our team of local volunteers for the upcoming tax season. You’ll receive training and continued support in a welcoming environment. And, as our current volunteers tell us, you’ll not only learn new skills, but also get a great feeling from helping someone else.” The following link will help volunteers get started: https://secure.aarp.org/applications/ Volunteer_with_AARP_Tax_Aide/aboutYou. action?jobId=a1oo0000001AGvXAAW

COA Corner

We are looking for children’s print fabric donations. We make pillowcases for Sturdy Hospital in lieu of the plastic “Personal Belongings” bag. The bags are given to kids coming in for surgeries, sleep studies, etc., to put their stuff in and take with them when they go home. We are also looking for yarn donations to make chemo hats and infant hats.

Gert’s Café

Lunch is served at Gert’s Café. Mondays at Noon. Stop in and enjoy a delicious

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

Fridays 8:00 a.m. to 12 noon

lunch for the bargain price of a $3 donation.

Please sign up .

Tuesday’s Lunch

Tuesdays, 11:30 am to 12:30 pm

Soup, Sandwiches, & Pantry Surprise.

Come and join us for a delightfully yummy meal.

The COA Breakfast

Wed from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM

The COA is serving egg sandwiches, 2 pieces of French toast or 2 pancakes for $2.00 donation and with your choice of ham, sausage, bacon or home fries for an extra .50 Start your day off with good home style cooked breakfast or have a mid-day snack for those who wake up with or before the chickens! Come on in and join us!

Tasty Thursdays Lunch

Tasty Thursday Lunch is held on the last Thursday of the Month at 12 Noon. Please come in and join us for lunch with friends.

Cost $3.00 donation.

Men’s Morning Coffee

Kitchen hours: Monday – Thursdays 8:00am to 12 noon

Blood Pressures & Glucose Screenings

Our town of Rehoboth nurse, Jamie Noonie, will be available for blood pressure and glucose screenings. Please contact the COA 508-252-3372 for more information.

Podiatry Clinic with Dr. Marian Markowitz

Dr. Markowitz’s appointments start at 10:00 AM. Please call 508-252-3372 to schedule your appointment.

Tai Chi Classes

Tuesdays at 9:00 AM.

A way to exercise that’s easy on the joints and helps with balance...Makes a whole new you and has a great positive outcome for any age. Cost is $3.00 per class.

Line Dancing Classes Tuesdays at 10:00 AM.

Get in the grove if you like dancing.

Everyone is welcome to try out some steps.

Cost is $3.00 per class.

Fridays at 9:00 AM

Chair Yoga Exercise Classes

Card Games

Come and try this gentle style of yoga that’s performed mostly from a seated position.

Come in and enjoy fresh coffee, pastry, and conversation with this lively group.

Calling all card players.

Mondays at 9:00 AM - Cribbage Wednesdays at 12:30 PM we have HiLo Jack Come on in and try your luck and have a great time doing it. All are welcome and if you are not sure how to play the folks will gladly teach you.

Art Classes

Michelle’s Art Classes Cost for this is $4.00. Come on in and join us. Art classes are Wednesdays at 10:30 AM. Old and new students are welcome. Come in and have fun painting. Come early and have breakfast that is being served from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM Wednesdays.

Knitting and Crochet Group

If you like to knit or Crochet or you wanted to learn this amazing Craft the Ladies of the Needles are always there to share their knowledge with you. Don’t be shy; women and men are both invited. Come in and try it out Fridays at 10:00 AM.

Ladies Sewing and Quilting Guild

This is our charitable sewing group. We will still be making pillowcases, baby blankets, baby quilts. No experience necessary.

Meets Tuesdays at 10:30 AM.

Thursdays at 9:00 AM

Zumba

Thursdays at 10:00 AM.

Zumba is a fun aerobic workout that mixes in dance moves. Dance to great music, with great people, and burn calories without even realizing it. Cost is $3.00.

Meals on Wheels

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

The Best is Yet to Come

A senior social group that helps sponsor and do activities that members suggest.

They meet on the 2nd Thursday of the month at 1:00 PM at the Senior Center. They have many great activities through out the year. Annual dues are $6.00.

Senior Citizens Club

The Rehoboth Senior Citizens Club is a social and charitable club to help seniors in Rehoboth have a better life. Meetings are scheduled for the 1st Thursday at 12:30 and the 3rd Thursday at 12 Noon at the Rehoboth Council of Aging building.

The Friends of the Elderly

The Friends of the Elderly help and partially fund some of the services at the Rehoboth Council on Aging - such as the

December 2019 podiatry. Friends meet at 10:30 AM on the 3rd Monday of the month. New members are always welcome.

Veterans’ Information and Benefits

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

Important Information about Joining Activities

Registration is required for all upcoming programs. All activities will have participant signup sheets for that program. Most of the activity programs that are in the Council on Aging are free and open to the public. Some programs require minimum attendance.

If there is no interest then that activity will either be canceled or postponed. Please call 508-252-3372 for information on all activities or to sign up.

COA Bulletin Post on Community Information:

Please check the bulletin boards every time you come in to the Council on Aging for information on up coming events such as Free Health Screenings, Support Groups, and other important information that could benefit you, your family or friends.

S.H.I.N.E / OUTREACH

The COA’s Outreach/SHINE worker Bradley Marshall is available Mondays thru Wednesdays 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM and Thursdays 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM to assist you with social service needs such as; fuel, food, housing, medical insurance, and intervention help. Please call for an appointment at 508-252-3372.

Reminder: SNAP (Nutrition Program – Food Stamps) benefits can be applied for through this office. Please call for particulars on how to apply. Don’t be deciding whether to buy medication, pay bills or food for the table. Call Bradley Marshall to discuss areas he can help you with.

Reminder: FUEL ASSISTANCE – State Fuel Assistance for 2016-2017 winter season for new applicants has begun. Past enrollees should have already received their renewal applications for the 2016-2017 Fuel year. If you need assistance in completing renewals please contact this office. For additional questions for this service please call Bradley Marshall who can help guide you in preparation for the new application year. If you are low on heating fuel (¼ tank or less), call the Outreach Office, Bradley Marshall, to see if you qualify for emergency assistance.

S.H.I.N.E.

Serving Health Information Needs of Elders

Bradley Marshall in the towns SHINE Coordinator and can be reached at the COA 508-252-3372 for questions on Medicare, Medicaid and the Health Connector

Open Enrollment for Medicare Begins October 15th and Continues to December 6th 2019 for the 2020 Medicare Year Time to Review your health care Plans and decided to stay on your current Plan or move to a new Plan.

Significant changes are happening for 2020 so it might be in your best interest to have a trained SHINE worker help in reviewing your current standing: How Do You Change Medicare Plans?

It pays to review your package every year and evaluate whether it’s right for you based upon: • Coverage • Convenience • Cost The Medicare Open Enrollment Period (OEP), also referred to as the Annual Election Period (AEP), October 15 and December 7, is the time each year when you can review your coverage and make changes to your plans. You can: • Change from Medicare Parts A & B (Original Medicare) to a Part C (private Medicare Advantage) plan • Change from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare • Join, drop or switch a Part D prescription drug plan • Switch Medicare Advantage plans If you are enrolled in Medicare Advantage plan you have additional opportunities to re-evaluate your coverage during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Periods (MA OEP). The first is the annual period from January 1 – March 31, anyone with a Medicare Advantage plan can change plans during this time. The other is an individualized Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period that’s limited to new Medicare beneficiaries who enroll in an MA plan during the first three months they have Medicare.

They have a three-month MA OEP to switch plans. During these times you can: • Switch to a different Medicare Advantage plan • Switch from a Medicare Advantage plan to Original Medicare and a standalone Part D plan Since signing up for Original Medicare, I have decided I don’t want to take Part B. Can I switch to only Part A? If you have coverage through your job or an actively working spouse, you may not want to enroll in Part B until later. If your Medicare hasn’t started yet, there are two ways to drop Part B: • If you were automatically enrolled in both Part A & Part B and sent a Medicare card, follow the instructions that come with the card and send the card back. If you keep the card, you keep Part B and will pay Part B premiums.

• If you signed up for Medicare through Social Security, contact Social Security.

I’m signed up for Medicare Parts A & B. Can I sign up for Part C?

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81

If you want to enroll in a Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) plan, you can only do so during specific times: • You are new to Medicare – Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): This is the 7-month period when you are first eligible for Medicare. After you enroll in Parts A & B, you can choose to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan.

• You have enrolled in Medicare Parts A & B already – The Annual Election/Open Enrollment Period (OEP): Each year between October 15 and December 7, you can switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan, or vice versa.

Be aware that if you have Original Medicare with a Medigap/supplemental policy and you switch to Medicare Advantage, you most likely will not be able to get a Medigap policy again if you switch back.

The date your coverage starts depends on the period in which you enroll. Remember not to drop your existing coverage, if any, until your coverage with your Medicare Advantage plan has started.

Is Changing Medicare Advantage Plans Allowed?

If you want to switch between one Medicare Advantage plan to another, you can do so each year during the Annual Election/ Open Enrollment Period, which runs October 15 to December 7 and the annual Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period, which runs January 1 – March 31 every year.

If you are new to Medicare, you can switch MA plans during an individualized Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period that runs during the first 3 months you enroll in Medicare. You may also be able to switch plans during a Special Enrollment Period based on your plans star rating.

Once you select a new plan to enroll in, you’ll be disenrolled automatically from your old plan when your new plan’s coverage begins. You do not have to contact your old plan to disenroll.

What About Changing from Medicare Advantage to Original Medicare?

You can leave your Medicare Advantage plan to return to Original Medicare during two times each year: • During Annual Election/Open Enrollment Period (Oct. 15 – Dec. 7) • During the annual Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1 – March 31) • During an individual Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (during the first 3 months of enrollment in Medicare Part A and B) During the Open Enrollment Period, you can switch between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans. Beginning in 2019, the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period replaces the Medicare Advantage Disenrollment Period, which ran from January 1 to February 14. During this time, you can switch from a Medicare

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plan to Original Medicare. Your coverage will start on the 1st day of the month after the month in which you switch coverage.

Can I Switch from Medicare Advantage to Medigap?

There are generally only a few situations that allow you to leave Medicare Advantage and pick up a Medigap plan without being subject to medical underwriting.

If you joined a Medicare Advantage plan when you were first eligible for Medicare and you aren’t happy with the plan, you’ll have special rights to buy a Medigap policy if you return to Original Medicare within 12 months of joining.

If you are moving to a different state or part of the state and your Medicare Advantage plan does not serve that area, you also have special rights to return to Original Medicare and pick up a Medigap plan.

Remember, If you had a Medigap policy in the past then left it to get an MA plan, when you return to Original Medicare, you might not be able to get the same Medigap policy back or in some cases, any Medigap policy unless you have a “trial right” or “guaranteed issue” right.

Can I switch my Part D plan?

Most people are allowed to switch plans once a year, during the Annual Election/ Open Enrollment Period (October 15 – December 7). If you are switching from a Medicare Advantage plan to Original Medicare during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MA OEP) which runs from January 1 – March 31, you can add a Part D plan. The MA OEP does not allow for Part D changes for individuals enrolled in Original Medicare, including those enrolled in stand-alone Part D plans.

If you receive Extra Help with your Medicare prescription drug costs, you can switch plans as often as once per quarter during the first nine months of the year (January -September).

There are special circumstances when you can switch plans at other times: • You move out of the area your current plan serves OR • You enter, leave or live in a nursing home OR • Your plan changes and no longer serves your area OR • You get Extra Help with your Medicare prescription drug costs.

My drug plan’s formulary changed in the middle of the year. Is that allowed?

Part D plans sometimes change their formularies during the course of the year.

This happens because new drugs come on or are taken off the market, generic versions of a brand name drug become available or there are new clinical guidelines about the use of a medication. Part D plans are required to provide 60 days’ notice to all plan members about a formulary change before it happens.

What About Changing Medicare Supplement Plans?

There are many reasons you may want to switch your Medigap plan. Maybe you are paying too much for benefits you don’t need. Or maybe your health has gotten worse, and now you need more benefits.

In most cases, you won’t have a right under Federal law to switch Medigap policies unless you’re eligible under a specific circumstance or guaranteed issue rights or you’re within your 6-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period.

Can I suspend my Medigap coverage if I get a job?

If you get other health insurance, you may be able to put your Medigap policy on hold or suspend it. You can suspend your Medigap policy if: • You have Medicare and a Medigap policy when you are under age 65 and you go back to a job that offers health insurance, or • You are the dependent, spouse or adult child of someone who gets a job that offers health insurance.

This right to suspend your Medigap policy if you get employer health insurance is only for people with Medicare and Medigap who are not yet 65.

You will need to contact your Medigap insurance company and let them know. You can suspend your Medigap: • At any time while you have employer group health insurance, and • As long as you are eligible to get Medicare because of a disability.

If you lose your job’s health insurance coverage, you can get your Medigap back.

You will need to contact your Medigap company and let them know within 90 days of losing your job’s coverage. Your Medigap coverage will begin the day you lost your job’s coverage.

Can I suspend my Medigap if I get Medicaid?

You can put your Medigap policy on hold, or suspend it, within 90 days of getting Medicaid. You send the company a letter to suspend your policy. Your insurance company can tell you exactly what to say in your letter and where to send it.

You can suspend your Medigap policy for up to 2 years. Some people choose to keep their Medigap policy active so they can see doctors that do not accept Medicaid.

This can be expensive, so carefully consider if you need both.

If you already have Medicaid, an insurance company cannot by law sell you a Medigap policy except if: • Medicaid pays your Medigap premium, or • Medicaid only pays all or part of your Medicare Part B premium.

Can I switch from Medigap to a Medicare Advantage plan?

Medigap policies can’t work with Medi-

care Advantage Plans. Your Medigap policy can’t be used to pay your Medicare Advantage Plan copayments, deductibles and premiums. If you have a Medigap policy and join a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C), you may want to drop your Medigap policy.

If you later on decide to leave your Medicare Advantage plan, you might not be able to get the same Medigap policy back or any Medigap policy, unless you have a “trial right” or “guaranteed issue” right. Generally you will only have this right during the first 12 months that you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan.

Rehoboth Senior Citizens Club

The Rehoboth Senior Citizens Club is a Social and Charitable Club to help seniors in Rehoboth have a better life. Meetings are scheduled for the 1st Thursday @ 12:30 & 3rd Thursday @ 12 Noon at the Rehoboth Council of Aging building.

The Friends of the Elderly help and partially fund some of the services at the Rehoboth Council on Aging - such as the podiatry. Friends meets at 10:30 AM on the 3rd Monday of the month.

New members are always welcome.

Veteran’s Information/Benefits Friday – 8:00 AM to Noon

Veterans Service Officer – Jake Kramercan help you, call 508-252-4467 for an Appointment(s) as needed Office hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, & Thursday—8:00 AM to – 4:00 PM

Toys Donated to Rehoboth COA

Mass One Chapter 9, National Camping Travelers donate Toys for Rehoboth Kids to COA On November 2nd, Mass One Chapter 9, National Camping Travelers (a Masonic Family Camping Club) held its fall camp-in at the Munich Haus in Chicopee, MA. Our goals were to enjoy time with the 18 friends from CT 1 Chapter 6 and Mass One who came, and to contribute toys to our local community for children to receive this year for Christmas. We collected the above toys and monetary donations and presented them to Linda Sherman, Director of the Council on Aging in Rehoboth, MA. Ma. Sherman was thrilled to receive our donation of goodies, and on behalf of the Council on Aging wrote “Thank you, Mass One Chapter 9 and friends from National Camping Travelers for your generous donation of toys and cash gift for the children in our local community”.

A heart-felt “Thank you” to everyone who attended our event at the Munich Haus (and to Dave Fant for organizing the event)!

Mass One Chapter 9 hopes to make the fall camp-in toy donation an annual event.

Please look for the date of our 2020 fall camp-in in future communications.

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Seekonk Human Services Seekonk Human Services P. 508-336-8772 F. 508-336-2239

Director - Brittney Faria, LSWA Assistant Director Ashley Cartwright, MBA Outreach Worker Veronica Brickley, LPN BA SOC LSWA Clerk - Kimberly Mallon Community Liaison - Carol Poncin Office Clerks Sharon Bettencourt & Maggie Perkins

Human Services Council Michelle Hines, Chairperson Josephine Veader, Vice Chairperson Members Irene Andrews Guy Boulay Beverly Della Grotta Anne Libby Theresa McGregor Center Hours Monday – Thursday 8:30am – 4:30pm Friday 8:30am – 12:30pm Evening Appointments Available Upon Request 540 Arcade Avenue, Seekonk, MA 02771

Seekonk Human Services will be closing on Dec. 24 at 12:30pm, Dec. 25 all day for Christmas, Dec. 31 at 12:30pm & Jan. 1 all day for the New Year.

Winter Celebration

Wednesday, December 11

Entertainment—11:30am - 12:30pm Lunch—12:30pm Gary Leanves vocalist, keyboard & guitarist will be preforming at our Annual Winter Celebration Lunch will be catered by Young’s Catering including a delicious meal of Cranberry Glazed Chicken, Squash and Mashed Potatoes with salad, dinner rolls and dessert Lunch must be paid for in advance cost is $10 for residents and $12 for nonresidents

Medium: Lynn Kent

Wednesday, December 18 @ 11:30am

Lynn will be here doing a short talk on how to recognize your loved one is around you. We will be doing a short two minute quiet time. You will be asked to close your eyes so you can meditate to be aware of your surroundings. Lynn will be gathering

your feelings from each person to help you recognize some of what has been received from spirit, which may have been trying to connect with you. She will have discussion, some interpretation of those signs you received while you were meditating. There may be a few readings done at the end of the presentation if the spirits wish. Activity is free of charge. Lunch must be paid for in advance cost is $2.25.

application, please call Seekonk Human Services at 508-336-8772 to make an appointment with the Outreach Department.

Fuel Assistance opens November 1 and runs through April 30.

Christmas is for Kids

If your favorite thing about using a computer is sharing pictures, Pinterest, Snapchat & Instagram may just be the apps for you. Come to this session for an introduction to these online services. Librarian Michelle Gario will lead this 90 minute class. Bring your own phone, tablet, or laptop; Please make sure your device is fully charged or bring your cable and charger. Contact the Senior Center to register. 508-336-8772.

Seekonk Human Services will be participating in Christmas is For Kids again.

Applications are available at Seekonk Human Services. Please contact Seekonk Human Services at 508-336-8772 for application. *The program is intended for children age 0-13 years old. Application deadline is Monday, December 9th. NOTE: Anyone interested in adopting a family for Christmas please contact Brittney Faria or Ashley Cartwright @ 508-336-8772

Christmas Basket and Meals

Anyone who receives food from Doorways Food Pantry is eligible to receive a Christmas Basket from Doorways. If you are not currently participating in Doorways, you may call the Outreach Department at Seekonk Human Services for an appointment to receive a holiday basket. You will need to fill out an in-take form. Please call 508-336-8772 by Monday, December 9th for a Christmas Basket. Anyone who is homebound and would like to have a hot meal delivered on Christmas should sign up at Seekonk Human Services by Monday, December 9th.

Senior Arts & Crafts Projects Mondays 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Residents Fee $3.00 Non-Residents $5.00. Seekonk Human Services has partnered with Parks & Recreation to offer Senior Arts & Crafts on Monday afternoons from 2pm to 4pm. The cost per class is $3 for residents and $5 for non-residents. We request that participants sign up one week in advance with payment in order to have the supplies for the class. We hope to see you there! Here is a look at our upcoming projects: Dec. 9: Continuation from Dec. 2nd Dec. 16: Candy Cane Hanger Dec. 23: Clay Pot Hanging Snowman Dec. 30: Light Up Snowman

Fuel Assistance

If you had fuel assistance last year, be on the lookout for your application. If you have never had fuel assistance and would like to apply or if you need help filing your

Let’s Learn Together! Photo Sharing with Pintrest, Snapchat and Instagram Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2 pm

Podiatry clinic with Dr. Lechan Wednesday, Dec. 11 1-3 p.m.

Dr. Alan Lechan is out of Fall River, Mass but will be coming to Seekonk Human Services to perform a Podiatry Clinic. Appointment is required for the Podiatry Clinic.

Please call 508-336-8772 to schedule your appointment. Items needed are insurance cards with your doctor’s names, date of last doctor’s visit, summary of last visit, and list of medications. *Please check with your insurance regarding co-pays.

Tech time

Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2pm—4pm

Students from MTTI in Seekonk will be coming to Seekonk Human Services on the second Wednesday of the month from 2pm to 4pm to help individuals out with their electronics. Bring your laptop, tablet, or cell phone and learn what they all have to offer or clean out the hard drive of your computer.

Men’s breakfast at Toti’s Restaurant

Thursday, Dec. 12, 9:30am

All men are welcome to attend and no sign up is required. Bring a friend with you to enjoy a delicious breakfast. There is no set price for breakfast, order what you want, pay for what you order.

Blood pressure and gluclose clinic Wednesday, Dec. 18, 9-10:30 a.m.

Seekonk EMT will be performing our blood pressure clinic! This is a first come, first serve basis. Come on down and get your blood pressure checked.

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Women’s Brunch, East Side Diner in East Prov.

All women are invited to attend, there is no sign up necessary. Bring a friend and enjoy good food and good conversation. All meals are dutch treat.

and better sleep. Each session will have a different theme where the meditation will focus on topics like relaxation, happiness, healing, and more. No experience required just a willingness to give it a try. At the end of meditation participants can choose a card that has a message to keep in mind for the week ahead.

Brown bags

Knitting for the needy

Brown Bag drop off will be from 9:00am—11:00am and pick up at the center will be 11:15am to 12pm.

In our Knitting Club, our exceptional volunteers give their time to knit for those in need. The items are donated to Citizens for Citizens Inc., who then distributes them to needy families in Seekonk and other surrounding communities. Free yarn is available at Human Services to all club members.

For more information call 508-336-8772.

Thursday, Dec. 19, 10am

Wednesday, Dec. 18

Indoor Walking Club

Mondays & Wednesdays 9am – 9:45am

Tired of walking alone? Looking for a new way to motivate yourself? Join our indoor walking club that meets twice weekly.

Balance - memory - weight

Three of the biggest problems for senior citizens are poor balance, memory loss and the inability to loose excess weight. Using the Wii Fit Plus program on a regular basis can help you with all three of these things.

Exercise is not always easy and sometimes it hurts. This is a painless and fun way to exercise. I would love to show you how this program could help you. Contact Nancy at 508-336-9547.

Beginner line dancing Mondays @ 11am

If you would like to learn how to Line Dance this is the class for you! You will be starting off with some easy line dances. Join the fun and have a great time!!

A few Line Dances you will be learning: Cupid Shuffle, Cab Driver, Ah Si! Cowboy Shuffle, etc. Instructed by Carol. Activity is free of charge.

Chair yoga

Mon. & Wed., 10-10:50am

It has been shown to help alleviate or reduce many health challenges. The many benefits of Yoga have even been said to slow down the physical ailments associated with the aging process. Health benefits have included improvements in Sleep; Strength/ Arthritis; Diabetes; Hypertension; Excess Weight; Mood/Anxiety; Depression; Chronic Pain as well as Breathing.

Guided Meditation - Jan Randall 1st and 3rd Monday, 11-11:30 am

In this this 30 minute group participants will be led through guided visual imagery designed to help you relax, restore balance and renew vitality by allowing the body to truly rest. Benefits of guided meditation can include: stress reduction, a feeling of joy, increased energy, a calmer state of mind

Mondays at 12:30pm

Zumba

Cribbage players wanted! Come drop in on a Thursday afternoon and play cribbage.

Advanced floor yoga Fridays 9am—10am

This class is a Vinyasa practice that is taught at a slower pace to help students find beneficial alignment and nourishment in each pose. This a truly a practice for all and will leave you feeling energized and centered. $2 per person.

Tai Chi

Fridays 10:15am – 11am

This ancient but effective form of exercise helps reduce stress and anxiety. It also helps increase flexibility and balance.

Its benefits can help reduce back pain and pain from knee osteoarthritis, and improve quality of life. We hope you’ll join us!

Mondays at 1pm

GATRA transportation services

Nutritional meals

Riding Dial-A-Ride is Easy: To be considered for Dial-A-Ride service, customers must completed GATRA’s Statewide Access Pass and ADA Paratransit Eligibility Application form and/or a Senior Application. BEFORE CALLING, HAVE YOUR TRIP INFORMATION READY. Exact address and requested travel times are required. The day before your travel date, please call the office to check your pick up times. We ask that you call the office between 4:30pm and 6:00pm Monday through Friday, and between 9am and 6pm on Saturday.

Melissa Nelson will be instructing a Zumba class on Monday afternoons at 1pm.

Zumba is an aerobic fitness program featuring movements inspired by various styles of Latin American dance. This is fun way to burn calories and stay in shape.

Wed. & Thur. at 11:30am

Starting in May Seekonk Human Services will be offering nutritional meals on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11:30am for $2.25 each. The menu will be available at Seekonk Human Services. Sign up is required for this as the meals are brought in from an outside agency.

Bingo

Thursdays at 1pm

BINGO cards will be sold from 12pm until 12:45pm on Thursdays. BINGO will start promptly at 1pm. No tickets will be sold after 12:45pm. Thank you!

Silver sneakers

Tuesday & Thursday 10-10:45am

Have fun and move to the music through a variety of exercises designed to increase muscular strength, range of movement and activities for daily living. Resistance training and activities is achieved with the use of hand weights and tubing. A chair is used for seating and standing support.

Mahjong

Wednesdays at 1pm

American mahjong utilizes racks, jokers, “Hands and Rules” score cards and has several distinct game play mechanics.

Cribbage

Thursdays 1pm to 3pm

1-800-483-2500

Two safety measures, one priority Free programs from the Bristol County Sheriff’s Office

Bristol County Sherriff Thomas Hodgson is offering the free “R.U.O.K?” program.

Calls are placed to seniors, disabled persons, and shut-ins at the same time each day to check on the well-being of the individual. After a second call if no one answer, Emergency responders will be dispatched to check in on the person. Applications are available at Seekonk Human. Services, or by calling 774-628-0030.

Free File of Life Folders are available at Seekonk Human Services. These folders are designed to be kept on your refrigerator as an alert to emergency medical personnel of your medical information during an emergency situation. These files could save your life or the life of a loved one. Pick up yours today!

2019 trips

Newport Playhouse: A Christmas Comedy Wednesday, December 18

Departure: 10am Return: Approximately 5pm

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$66 per person (driver gratuity included) Christmas turns into a dickens of a holiday for one private investigator as she solves mysteries, delivers small miracles and takes a second chance on love and sleuthing.

An American Bandstand New Year’s Eve Bash – Wrentham, MA Tuesday, December 31

Departure approximately 10:30am $89 per person (drivers gratuity included) Our entertainment ringing in the New Year is the incredibly dynamic Tom LaMark Orchestrea. The repertoire of the Tom LaMark Orchestra covers over 60 years of great music from the original classics of the Swing Era, the Best in Ballroom Dancing, our favorite Line Dances, to the Best of American Bandstand from the 50’s, 60’s, 70’s and 80’s. This is a celebration like no other. Sing along, dance along, and party strong to our live band. Our program will showcase some of the great songs from groups such as The Four Tops, The Beatles, Elvis, Bill Haley & The Comets, Roy Orbison, Patsy Cline, Hank Williams, The Drifters, Johnny Cash, Chuck Berry, Bobby Darin, Etta James, The Contours, Frank Sinatra, The Rolling Stones, Leslie Gore, Van Morrison, The Foundations, Duke Ellington, The Righteous Brothers & many more. So bring your dance shoes and get ready to experience an American Bandstand New Year’s!

Plated lunch included with choice of sliced sirloin steak, baked stuffed chicken breast, or baked scrod. *Please note: All trips leave from Seekonk Human Services unless otherwise noted. 50% deposit is required at sign up and final payment must be made two weeks prior to trip. Checks are to be made payable to the Town of Seekonk. To ensure trips are not cancelled please sign up one month prior to trip at the latest in order to give the tour company an accurate count. For any information regarding trips please contact Seekonk Human Services at 508-336-8772.

Please utilized the Knights of Columbus parking lot first**

Seekonk Senior Center’s Veterans Day Celebration

Everyone enjoying the Seekonk Senior Center’s Veterans Day celebration with Coach Ed performing “ America The Beautiful & God Bless America” along with a variety of other songs.

Seekonk Seniors enjoy meal prepared by Chef Chris Olobri

Participants at the Seekonk Senior Center enjoyed the Turkey Panini & Salad prepared

by Chef Chris Olobri from the Atria Bay Spring Village in Barrington, RI.

Halloween Party at the Seekonk Senior Center

Participants enjoying the music & stories performed by Davis Bates at the Halloween Party at the Seekonk Senior Center. Costume celebrities from left to right: Roseanne, Kathy, Dolores, Beverly, Nancy, Gloria, Brittney, & Veronica.

Community VNA Hospice and Palliative Care

Hospice is caring that focuses on comfort for patients with serious illnesses. This care is designed to provide all aspects of medical, emotional and spiritual care and support for patients and assistance for their loved ones.

Community VNA's Hospice and Palliative Care nursing staff are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to provide skilled medical care and assistive support, to treat physical symptoms as well as the emotional and spiritual needs of our patients and their loved ones.

For more information, visit www.communityvna.com, and connect with Community VNA on Facebook.

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CLASSIFIEDS WANTED

Civil War, WW1, WW2, Anything to do with military; helmets, knives, uniforms, guns, HAVE (license), anything related to wartime, will pay cash for items, ask for Charles, call 508-230-6444; call anytime thanks Paying CASH for Coins, Gold & Silver Jewelry, Flatware, Costume Jewelry, Antiques, Smalls, Old Toys, Gift Cards,Fishing Lures, Pre 1964 Coins, Oddities. Warren Exchange 175 Main Street in Warren (401)245-5001. Off Street Parking.

Place Classified ads at www.ReporterToday.com VACATION RENTALS

WINTER WONDERLAND - SKI HOUSE WHITE MOUNTAINS NH/ FRANCONIA: Custom log cabin home in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, located on Pearl Lake Rd. Minutes from Cannon Mt., Loon, and Brenton Woods. Booking now for winter - snowmobiling trails right out of our driveway! Sleeps 6, fireplace, full kitchen. Weekly $700 and weekends $275. For info and pics call Joe at 401-439-8089.

VACATION - HONEYMOON RENTAL:

I buy Old cars, Motorcycle, Bicycles, Scooter and other wheeled vehicle and parts. One piece or a collection. Thank you Joe in Rehoboth 508 558 5129.

HELP WANTED

Crossing Guard: Barrington Public Schools is accepting applications for the position of crossing guard. Interested candidates please apply online at Schoolspring.com job #3204918 Hourly Rate $15.45.

FOR SALE

DRESS UP YOUR HORSE WITH A SPECIAL SADDLE! GREAT HOLIDAY presents: PASSIER DRESSAGE SADDLE, Nicoles Grand Gilbert), 17.5, very good condition. $745/BRO. COLLEGIATE MARATHON ENDURANCE/TRAIL SADDLE with Flair system . 17.5. Barely used . $645/BRO. Neither fits current horse. Call/text 508-269-2600.

"1967" Mustang Hood & Front Fenders - $150.00. Wooden Kitchen Table and Four Chairs, very good condition - $150.00.

Please call 508-252-1256.

Beautiful Dining Room Hutch - Dark wood, nickel hardware, glass shelves. 80" high, 53 1/2" wide, 17" deep. Very good condition. Top and bottom can be moved in two pieces. $500. 860-9333176, text only if possible.

FOR RENT

House on farm for rent in Rehoboth. 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths. $1700 + first, last and security. Call Jennifer 508-333-8265.

HALL RENTALS

BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY PARTY NOW! Riverside Sportsman Assoc. Mohawk Drive off Wampanoag Trail. For all occasions: Holiday Parties, Birthday, Family Reunions, and Club/Organization Meetings. Cash Bar. Monthly Steak Fries. Call Arthur 401-831-0561 or 401-433-0209 for more information.

CLASSES / LESSONS

PIANO LESSONS: Taught in my home, both classical and popular to persons of all ages. Call Anita.in Rehoboth 508-252-4208.

St. Michael, Azores Ponta Graca (Portugal). Pristine 2 bed, 2 bath apartment with kitchen, DR, LR & laundry. Linens provided.

Majestic Atlantic and mountain views from spacious deck. Near golf courses, beaches, and more. $525 Weekly. Time is money, must act now. Call 401-480-0374 or 508-336-8432.

GENERAL SERVICES CHAIR CANING SEAT WEAVING Cane, Fiber and Natural Rush, Danish Cord, Other natural materials. NO Press (Sheet) Cane. (401) 438 8477 valka@cox.net HOUSE CLEANING: Is your home in need of a really good cleaning? Whether you need one, or regular cleanings. Years of experience! (we include oven, inside fridge in our service). Call Gil for details 508-840-6611.

VIP Cleaning Service: Let us make your life easier, healthier, happier and most of all... cleaner!! Family owned and operated for over 13 years. Fully insured and bonded. Commercial, residential, move-in/move-out, post-construction, power washing, strip & wax floors, restore hardwoods. We customize for your needs. Call or email for a free estimate. (401) 338-2306 or (401) 270-3838. vipcleaningservice@yahoo.com.

BIG BLUE REMOVAL SERVICE: Attic, Cellar, Total House.

We take everything! Furniture, Brush, Appliances, Yard Waste, Construction Debris, Trash…Demolition of Fences, Sheds, Decks, Pools. Let us do the work. Free Estimates. Call Tony 508-226-1295; www.BigBlueRemoval.com.

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IN MEMORIAM Peter J. Kanelakos

Peter J. Kanelakos Seekonk – Peter J. Kanelakos, 85, formerly of Pawtucket, passed away on Thursday, November 7, 2019 at home surrounded by his family. He was the husband of Donna (Braden) Kanelakos for sixty years. Born

dear friend who treasured his family, friends and the great outdoors. Peter will be forever remembered by all whose lives he touched.

Aside from his loving wife Donna, he is survived by two children, his son, Stephen J. Kanelakos and his wife, Myra, of Reidsville, North Carolina and his daughter, Veneta A. Kanelakos and her husband, Lalit K. Shahani, of Menlo Park, CA; two grandchildren, his granddaughter, Lyndsey Shahani and his grandson, Kai Shahani; his sister, Marie McKenney of West Warwick and many nephews and nieces. He was the brother of the late Ernest J. Kanelakos, Christine Dalby, Lillian Crowther, Catherine Rosaki, Bertha Pitarchas, Constantine “Gus” Kanelakos.

His funeral was held on Tuesday, November 12, 2019 at 9:30 a.m. from William W. Tripp Funeral Home, 1008 Newport Ave., Pawtucket, followed by a Service at 11:00 a.m. in the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, 175 Oaklawn Avenue, Cranston.

Interment followed at North Burial Ground, Providence. Donations in his memory may be made to Rhode Island Lions Children’s Cancer Fund, P.O. Box 41347, Providence, RI 02940. TRIPPFUNERALHOME.com

in Providence, Rhode Island, he was the son of the late John and Venetia (Loupos) Kanelakos.

Peter graduated in 1952 from Pawtucket West High School, studied Business Administration at Bryant College and served honorably in the United States Army. He was the proprietor of the former Cup & Saucer Grill and former Crescent Grill, both of Pawtucket. Peter retired in 1997 from the former Credit Union Central Falls, presently Navigant Credit Union, as Vice President after serving thirty years in the banking industry. He served as a dedicated member of the Pawtucket Lions Club, District 32 for many years. Peter will be remembered by his close family and dear friends as a loving, funny, benevolent man with an uplifting and cheerful outlook on life. He loved to share stories and jokes with anyone he encountered. He enjoyed swimming, gardening, golfing, traveling and cheering on New England sports teams. It brought him great joy baking cakes and playing dominos or a game of basketball with his grandchildren.

He was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin and

William W. Tripp & Cheetham Funeral Homes Compassionately serving the families of Rehoboth and Seekonk for generations

Conveniently located at 1008 – 1012 Newport Avenue, Pawtucket, Rhode Island 401-722-2140 www.trippfuneralhome.com Offering no obligation funeral pre-planning Traditional and Cremation Funeral Service Packages available from $3,350.00 | Immediate Cremation from $1,765.00 Funeral Directors/Embalmers

Jason K. Landry of Rehoboth

Daniel A. Laneres

Sandra M. Reis Fala Português

Michael S. Sladen

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IN MEMORIAM Barbara A. Furman

Barbara A. Furman Seekonk – Barbara A. (Edwardo) Furman, 71, of Seekonk, passed away peacefully Monday, November 11, 2019, surrounded by her loving family, at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston.

She was the beloved wife of Benjamin A. Furman, to whom she had been married for 25 years.

Born in Providence, she was a daughter of the late Anthony and Santina “Connie” (Caserta) Edwardo.

Barbara graduated from St. Mary’s of the Visitation and, immediately after graduation, began an outstanding career as a paralegal and office manager, working for many attorneys, among them Milton Stanzler and Judge Susan McGuirl.

She enjoyed reading and was an avid fan of the New England Patriots and Boston Red Sox. Barbara and her husband shared a love of animals, and their home was always a refuge for strays and adoptees.

In addition to her husband, Barbara leaves a sister, Susan M. Filippi of Johnston and her husband, Peter, and their two sons, Peter A. Filippi IV and his wife Brianna of North Smithfield, and Christopher N. Filippi of North Scituate; and Ben’s two daughters, Rachel F. Furman, of East Bridgewater, MA, and her two sons Jayden and Logan, and Rochelle S. Furman, of Brockton, MA, and her daughter Alexandrea. She is also survived by several cousins throughout RI. Relatives and friends attended a Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, November 16, at St. Teresa Church, 358 Newport Ave., Pawtucket, followed by internment in the Seekonk Town Cemetery. Visitation was on Friday at the William W. Tripp Funeral Home, 1008 Newport Ave., Pawtucket.

Consistent with her love of animals, Barbara has requested that, in lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory be made to the Seekonk Save A Pet Society, 100 Peck Street, Seekonk, MA 02771.

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

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

Patricia (Ryan) Halliday

Patricia (Ryan) Halliday Rehoboth -- Patricia R. (Ryan) Halliday, 62, passed away at home, surrounded by her loving family on Tuesday, November 19th, 2019. For the past 18 months Pat had been fighting a battle with CreutzfeldtJakob Disease (CJD), a rare degenerative brain disorder. She was the beloved wife of Michael J. Halliday for 33 years. Born in Providence, she was a daughter of Jeanne (Pelland) Ryan of North Smithfield and the late Walter Ryan, Sr. Patty was a devoted and loving wife, mother, sister, aunt, niece, and dear friend to all whose lives she touched over the past 62 years. Most of all, Patty enjoyed spending time with family and friends. She loved the beach, keeping a beautiful home, the Red Sox, gardening, retail therapy, and a good book. Patricia worked in marketing and sales, first at Fram Corporation in East Providence for many years, then with the Robbins Company in Attleboro. She had been working for Dorel Juvenile in Foxboro up until her affliction. Besides her loving husband and mom, Patty leaves a son, Stephen Halliday of Rehoboth; a daughter, Emily Halliday of Rehoboth; four siblings, Walter Ryan, Jr. in Canterbury, New Hampshire, Kathleen Strojny in Cumberland, Rhode Island, Joyce Sullivan in Chester, New Hampshire, Michael Ryan of Sudbury, Massachusetts, her Uncle Romie and Aunt Viv, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Patricia’s funeral was held on Monday, November 25th from the WILLIAM W. TRIPP Funeral Home, 1008 Newport Ave., Paw-

December 2019 The Reporter tucket. A Mass of Christian Burial was Celebrated in Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Parish in Seekonk. Interment followed at Rehoboth Village Cemetery. Memorial gifts to the CJD Foundation, 3634 W. Market St., Suite 110, Akron, Ohio 44333 would be appreciated.

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Rehoboth Carol Marie (Dewey) Viall, 82, passed away on Monday, October 21, 2019, at her home in Rehoboth, MA, surrounded by her loving family.

Harry L. Strickland, Jr., 79, Rehoboth, MA, died peacefully on November 16, 2019 surrounded by his loving family.

Roger Wayne Boucher, 81, of Rehoboth, MA, passed away on Monday, November 18, 2019 at Rhode Island Hospital in Providence, RI.

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Community VNA offers Alzheimer’s & Dementia Caregiver Support Community VNA offers a monthly support group for caregivers of individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease or other related dementia. This group gives caregivers the opportunity to share experiences, seek advice, and exchange tips and ideas that can help ease some of the stress and workload of being a caregiver. Our specially-trained and highly-experienced staff provides the assistance and reassurance you need to manage stress and take time for your own much-needed care.

The group meets from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month at our Main Office, 10 Emory Street, Attleboro, MA. This group is free and open to the community. All are welcome but please call to RSVP and reserve your spot: 508.222.0118

About Community VNA

Community VNA has been dedicated to enhancing health, wellness and quality of life for more than 100 years, providing a range of services, including: Home Health Care, Hospice Care, Palliative Care, Private Care, Adult Day Health Care, Alzheimer’s Assistance Program, as well as Lifeline services and annual Elder Dental Clinics.

For more information, visit For more information, visit www.communityvna.com, or follow us on Facebook.

Seekonk Gene R. Baasch, 82, of Seekonk passed on Saturday, October 26, 2019.

Richard Merrigan, age 85, of Seekonk, formerly of Taunton, passed away on Sunday, November 3, 2019.

Marion Choiniere, 97, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on November 7, 2019.

Robert Joseph Damiani, 78, of Seekonk, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 7, 2019 at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Peter J. Kanelakos, 85, formerly of Pawtucket, passed away on Thursday, November 7, 2019 at home surrounded by his family.

Paul M. L’Archevesque, 56, of, Chappell Street, Seekonk, died peacefully on November 7, 2019 at home surrounded by his loving family.

Barbara A. (Edwardo) Furman, 71, of Seekonk, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 11, 2019 surrounded by her loving family at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA. Raymond E. O’Neill, 82, of Seekonk, MA, passed away peacefully with his family by his side Friday, November 15, 2019.

James “Jim” Traynor, 85, of Seekonk, passed away on Monday, November 18, 2019 at Hope Hospice and Palliative Care, Providence.

Obituary Submission Policy To submit an obituary for print, please call the Reporter Office at 508252-6575 for rates and information. Obituaries Start at $75.

The Reporter has free obituaries on our website. View and Post at: www.reportertoday.com

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The Reporter December 2019

Food & Sides for Holiday Entertaining Hearty Roasted Winter Vegetables Ingredients:

• 1 jar (16 ounces) Aunt Nellie’s Whole Pickled Beets, drained • 1 small red onion, cut into 12 wedges • 2 cups baby portobello mushrooms, cleaned and stems trimmed • 2 cups butternut squash, peeled, seeded and cut into 3/4inch chunks • 3 tablespoons olive oil • 1 clove garlic, finely chopped • 2 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary • 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme • 1/4 teaspoon salt, plus additional, to taste (optional) • 1/8 teaspoon pepper, plus additional, to taste (optional) • 2 cups Brussels sprouts, ends trimmed and scored with cross-cut

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Directions:

1. Heat oven to 400 F. 2. Place beets, onion, mushrooms and squash on rimmed 15½-by-10½-by-1inch baking sheet 3. Drizzle with olive oil.

4. Add garlic, rosemary, thyme, ¼ teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper; toss to coat.

5. Roast 15 minutes.

6. Add Brussels sprouts, stir and continue to roast until vegetables are tender and browned, about 30-35 minutes, stirring once.

7. Adjust salt and pepper, to taste, if desired.

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December 2019 The Reporter

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Directions

1. Heat oven to 350 F. In large skillet, heat butter over mediumhigh heat. Add mushrooms; cook 8-10 minutes, or until deep golden brown, stirring frequently. Season with salt and pepper; remove from heat.

2. Place brie on parchment-lined rimmed baking pan; drizzle with honey. Transfer to oven and bake 5-7 minutes, or until inside of cheese is softened but outside remains intact.

3. Transfer brie to serving platter; top with pomegranate arils, pistachios and mushrooms. Serve with crackers or bread.

Recipe courtesy of Lori Yates of “Foxes Love Lemons” on behalf of Milk Means More

Peppermint Shortbread Cookies Ingredients:

• 2-2 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, softened • 3/4 cup powdered sugar • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract • 1 teaspoon salt • 2 1/3 cups all-purpose flour • 3/4 cup peppermint crunch baking chips

Directions:

1. In stand mixer fitted with paddle attachment, cream butter, powdered sugar, vanilla and salt until smooth. Gradually add flour and mix on low until combined. Add baking chips and continue mixing on low until fully combined.

2. On wax paper or parchment paper, form dough into 12-14-inch log and freeze at least 30 minutes, or until firm.

3. Heat oven to 350 F. 4. Cut shortbread dough into 1/4-inch slices; bake 13-15 minutes on parchment-lined baking sheets.

Rachel Gurk of “Rachel Cooks” on behalf of Milk Means More

91

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92

The Reporter December 2019

Business Directory CATEGORY

COMPANY NAME

Antiques/Cash for Gold Appliance Repairs Art Supplies/Framing Assisted Living Attorney Attorney Attorney Auto Body Auto Body Auto Dealers Auto Parts Auto Repairs Auto Repairs Auto Services Automotive Bank Bird Feed & Supplies Building Contractor Building Contractor Candidate Candidate - Rehoboth Carpet Cleaning Carpet Cleaning Child Care Child Care Chimney Cleaning Chimney Services Church Church Cleaning Service Cleaning Service Clothing Store Collectibles Consignment Shop Consignment Store Construction

PAGE

Americana Auction 35 Affordable Appliance Repair 65 Gregory D. Dorrance, Co. 54 Swan Brook Assisted Living 79 Donald E. MacManus, Attorney 55 Laurie P. Mullen, Attorney 45 Law Office of Luke P. Travis 11 Sousa’s Auto Body 24 Tri Star Autobody 55 The Car Palace 47 NorthEastern Auto Supply 65 Mike’s Truck & Trailer Repair 23 New England Tire 3 Dorman’s Auto Center, Inc. 8 Yankee Auto Electric Inc 62 HarborOne Mortgage 17 Wild Birds Unlimited 28 A.M. Carpentry 25 M.G. Salois Construction 76 Steven Howitt 57 Paul Feeney 19 Earle’s Carpet Cleaning 66 M & S Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning 41 Citizens For Citizens - Head Start 67 Twin Oaks Farm Learning Center 68 RD Chimney Sweep 66 Kenny’s Masonry & Chimney Sweep 68 Holy Cross Church 31 MLR Tax Services 21 Debbie’s Cleaning Service 65 VIP Cleaning Service 49 CLC Menswear 36 Wexler’s Collectibles 36 The Emporium 29 Saks Consignment 33 G CAP Construction 42

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COMPANY NAME

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Hillside Country Club Community & Teachers Credit Union Coastal Dental Seekonk David C. Zaluski, D.D.S. Dr. Wassouf D.D.S. George Family Orthodontics Lisa Daft DMD & Associates, PC Romani Orthodontics Seekonk Dental Canine Mastery, Inc Greaves Electric James Tavares Electric Neal Bellavance Electric Edaville Railroad Kave Rock Farm Belwing Acres Turkey Farm Spring Garden Farm Fence Tech Pawt and Prov Figure Skating Club Seekonk Tree Service Earle Dias Interiors David J. Ledoux Hardwood Floors Gilmore’s Flower Shop P & J Florist Rose Bud Florists Al’s Quality Oil Co. COD OIL E & V Oil Co. Pricerite Discount Heating Oil J.H. Williams & Co. Funeral Home Smith Funeral & Memorial Services William W. Tripp Funeral Home Masterson Furniture Personal Touch American Eagle Entertrises, LLC Barre & Moon

27 18 20 22 46 6 58 69 10 53 24 52 73 40 40 32 16 43 77 43 75 11 30 32 39 60 70 96 93 88 27 87 35 32 60 77

December 2019 The Reporter

93

Business Directory CATEGORY Health & Fitness Heating & Air Home Improvements Hotels Insurance Agency Insurance Agency Insurance Agency Jewelers Jewelers Jewelers Jewelers Junk Removal Kitchen/Bath Design Landscape Service Liquor Store Liquor Store Log Homes Marble Fabricators Masonry-Construction Masonry-Construction Music Music, Weddings Orthodontics Orthodontics Painting Contractor Painting Contractor Painting Contractor Painting Contractor Painting Contractor Painting Contractor Paving Contractor Physical Therapy Plastering & Painting Plumbing & Heating Plumbing & Heating Real Estate

COMPANY NAME

PAGE

Cycle Barn Studio Taylor Heating and Air Conditioning Stateside Vinyl Siding Company Hotel Tybee Durand Insurance Agency Frazao Insurance Partners Insurance Group Attleboro Jewelry Makers Attleboro Jewelry Makers Mullen Bros. Jewelers Plante Jewelers AOL Enterprises Infinity Kitchens Green Care Landscaping Landry Liquors Regency Liquors Cedar Hill Log Homes Star Marble & Granite StoneScapes - Mark Carvalho Valter Rego Masonry Ray Mullin Music Classic Flute Duos George Family Orthodontics Romani Orthodontics Advantage Painting Cronan Painting EZ Painting Iachetti Painting Company Lundco Painting LLC. Val Arruda & Son Painting, Inc. Mohegan Seal Coating Co Personal Best Physical Therapy David Laurino - Plastering Sine Plumbing & Heating Vintage Plumbing & Heating Aubin Realty

13 72 49 2 9 19 7 29 39 37 30 11 18 96 38 35 67 61 75 59 38 37 6 69 51 41 92 73 55 56 71 70 43 64 16 48

CATEGORY Real Estate Real Estate Real Estate Real Estate Real Estate Real Estate Remodeling Restaurant Restaurant Restaurant Roofing Contractor Roofing Contractor RVs and Campers Seafood Market Seafood Market Security Systems Septic Inspections Septic Systems Septic Systems Septic Systems Septic Systems Septic Systems Spa Swimming Pools Trash/Junk Removal Tree Service Tree Service Tree Service Tree Service Water Treatment Wells Wells & Sump Pumps

www.priceriteheatingoil.com 48 Case Avenue, Seekonk, MA

PAGE

Century 21 - David Smith Mateus Realty ReMax Rivers Edge Robert DaRocha, Realtor TK Real Estate Brokerage Vicki Doran Batty Construction Boneyard Barbecue & Saloon La Collina La Familia B & R Fournier Construction, Inc. Tabeleys Roofing Camping World of Berkley Digger’s Catch Portside Fish Market,llc Home & Commercial Security Pro Inspection Services Bay State Sewage Croome Bros. Sanitation, Inc. Fisk Contracting Co. Soares Sanitation Pumping, Inc. Town Sanitation Cristallo Spa at Hillside CC Lucky Duck Pools Big Blue Removal Service Advanced Tree Choate Tree Service Heritage Tree & Arborist Seekonk Tree Service Water Filter Company, Inc. AW Pump / Rooter-Man Vintage Plumbing & Heating

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94

The Reporter December 2019

THE EXPERIENCE MAKES THE DIFFERENCE Since 1975, Mateus Realty has been helping families like yours buy and sell their homes. Mateus Realty understands the market and the emotion that comes with buying or selling a home, whether you are a first time home buyer in need of some guidance, a growing family looking to expand, or seniors looking to downsize.

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Riverside Cottage $179,900

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December 2019 The Reporter

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96

The Reporter December 2019

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

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