March 2023 Rehoboth Reporter

Photo by Steve Brasier

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!

Blood Drive Thank You

We, the family of the late Robert McKenna, would like to thank everyone who came out in January for the 10th annual blood drive in his memory. In addition, we truly appreciate the support of the Seekonk School Department in allowing the event to be held in the high school cafeteria. The results far exceeded our expectations. Over eighty people attended, resulting in seventythree successful donations. The staff at the RIBC were extremely professional and kept things moving as best as possible. Patience was key that day and everyone waited with a smile. Again this year, we had several first time donors. Hopefully they, along with the others who participated, will make blood donation a regular part of their lives. Several of the RIBC staff members commented to us that a turnout of this size is rare after the first few years of a memorial drive. It’s no doubt due to the memory of Bob’s unique and caring spirit . He would be thrilled to see his legacy of helping others continued in this way. We look forward to seeing everyone again in January of 2024.

Thank youThe McKenna Family Karen, Katie, Tim, Danny, Meredith, Fionntan and Orla

The

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Rehoboth Town Election is April 4th

Re-Elect Aaron Morse for Dighton-Rehoboth School Committee

Hello. I’m Aaron Morse and I am running for re-election to the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Committee. My family and I moved here to Rehoboth in 2018, joining my wife’s parents who have lived in town since 2006. We quickly became aware of the financial situation between the district and the town after the Prop 2 ½ override in 2018 and the ensuing budget boondoggle the very next year. It was due to these issues that I initially ran for School Committee back in 2020. I ran on a platform of fiscal responsibility and being a voice for balance to make sure students get the best education possible within the limits of what Rehoboth taxpayers can afford.

Over the last 3 years, I have gained valuable experience in various roles and subcommittees to work effectively to that end. I have served in committee leadership as Chairman and Vice-Chairman, Chairman of Negotiations Subcommittee, Chairman of Capital Subcommittee and a member of the Budget Subcommittee. Through collaboration between the committee and district administration, we haven’t experienced budget turmoil since 2019, and I would like to keep it that way. That being said, there is still work to do. I am concerned about the continued use of Excess and Deficiency (E&D) as a non-recurring revenue source to the budget. As a practice, this requires unspent prior year money to offset current year increases that we would otherwise not be able to afford and it is something that the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) discourages. I have made it known that we need a plan to reduce our reliance on E&D as a budget revenue source unless it is to cover one-time expenses.

Through the tireless efforts of Superintendent Bill Runey and his team and Business Administrator Rob Baxter and his team in the business office, conditions are improving steadily in the district. I am proud to have had a hand in the hiring of these two key administrators. Working together with Mr. Runey and Mr. Baxter, we have made strides in improving relationships with both Rehoboth and Dighton through increased transparency and communication. One issue that would benefit from improved communication is the ongoing litigation with the Town of Rehoboth. It is my hope that this will be resolved through mediation, a process that is already underway. It is also my hope that with improved communications and good faith discussions, the outdated Regional Agreement will be brought into compliance with modern statutes and regulations.

I am also a voice for parents. On several occasions, parents reached out to me with their concerns and I was able to either direct them to the proper contact or advocate to the administration directly on their behalf. Whether it’s a simple question or something more, I am always available to hear from you. I am a staunch advocate for Parents’ Rights in Education.

A little bit more about me – I’m a regular working husband and father of 2. I am a self taught Web and Software Engineer by trade and have been in the industry for 25 years. A lot has changed over that time which means I’m always researching and learning to keep up with new technologies and techniques. I have applied this mindset to my work on the committee, as there are always issues coming up that require research and self-education. I tend to be quick to listen, slow to speak. My communication style is fact based and I try to keep things simple and easy to understand. I always do my best to work well with everyone.

Should I be elected for another term, I will provide stability and continuity of committee leadership, which would provide critical support to Mr. Runey and his team as they work to improve the overall health of the district and its relationship with the Town of Rehoboth.

If you would like to know more about me and my position on relevant issues, support my campaign financially or with a yard sign, or find out where I will be standing out, you can follow me at https://www.facebook.com/morse4sc, https://twitter.com/admorseSC or reach me by email at morse4rehobothsc@outlook.com.

Thank you for your support!

Aaron Morse

Elect Robert Owens for Dighton-Rehoboth School Committee

I am writing to introduce myself to the community as a candidate for the DR district school committee position. My name is Robert Owens, and while I was not a lifelong resident of our town and I did not graduate from DR high school, I am a proud product of our K-8 schools.

During my teenage years I joined the US Naval Sea Cadets, a Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps. My experiences and influences led me to pursued a degree from Norwich University – The Military College of Vermont. As a civilian I earned my Bachelors of Science in Biology and as part of a study abroad program I earned a Certification in Japanese Language and Culture from Kanagawa University.

Since then, I have been employed at Siemens Healthineers for over a decade. My current position is Senior Biochemist for organic chemistry in the pre-development of immunoassays. In my role, I have gained extensive experience in analyzing data, communicating that data so it is understandable, and collaborating with a diverse team of scientists, engineers and regulatory bodies to solve complex problems.

Throughout my time at university, I volunteered and was eventually employed as a mentor for the Boys and Girls Club afterschool program. My experience studying abroad has also taught me the importance of cultural diversity and the value of a well-rounded education. Siemens has had a long-standing relationship with the local community schools providing science day activities which I participate in. Many times, I had the privilege to represent Siemens for The League School of Greater Boston collaboration and fundraising events.

My commitment to education extends beyond my professional life however. Currently I am a board member of the regional Special Education Parent Advisory Council. My daughter attends Palmer

River, and my wife is an elementary and middle school librarian. As a family, we value education and believe that every child deserves access to a high-quality education and that our schools play a critical role in shaping the future of our community.

If elected, I will work tirelessly to ensure that our schools continue to provide a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all students. The highest priority is seeing that our children graduate high school and are prepared for success in college or the workforce, equipped with the necessary knowledge, skills, and mindset to thrive in their chosen paths and make positive contributions to society.

I will use my combined experiences including data analysis and collaboration to help identify areas where our schools can improve and work with other committee members to develop practical solutions.

Thank you for considering my candidacy, and I look forward to the opportunity to serve our community.

If you have any questions or want to meet up for coffee you can reach me any of the following ways: Bob4DR@gmail.com, www. facebook.com/Bob4DR, or call or text me at (781) 269-2241.

Sincerely,

Robert Owens

Sandra (Rourke) & Ernie (Carl)

Cassie Krasnianski Cathy Edington Joy Cambria Kori Valente Marilyn

Stephens Ron Rupp

Sarah Dumke Tom Douglass

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Dear Rehoboth Residents,

I am Gary Zimmer and I am running for Rehoboth Constable in the April 4th election as a Republican supported by the Republican Caucus. I ask for your vote. I am a family-centered person who lives with my wife of 46 years and a daughter, who is a Nurse. My son is a Police Officer and my other daughter is a teacher. I have 5 grandchildren. I retired as an Army Airborne Lieutenant Colonel who worked for the 18th Airborne Corps and supported the 82nd Airborne Division. I have served the Nation in Combat and am an American Disabled Veteran. I have extensive background working in numerous civil and military criminal areas. I additionally retired as a Government Project Manager supporting Special Operation Forces. I support Saint Vincent DePaul Society providing food to our neighbors. I am an active member of the Rehoboth American Legion Post 302 and am a member of the Board of Health. I also drive town Veterans to their VA medical appointments and support the town taping town meetings. I am running for this position to support the Town of Rehoboth residents. Thank you. Please vote.

Sincerely,

Gary Zimmer

Seekonk Town Election is April 3rd

Running for Seekonk School Committee

SEEKONK APRIL 3rd TOWN ELECTION

My name is Kyle Juckett. Last year I was one of several that ran for a seat on the Seekonk School Committee. I’m a father of three children who attend Martin Elementary School, a husband to an amazing wife, and a police officer in a neighboring city. I began attending the school committee meetings almost two years ago after learning the educational challenges my son was facing, which I’m sure many can relate to here in Seekonk.

Michelle Hines for Board of Selectmen

• Raised and educated in town, as well as my family and my grandchildren.

• Involved in Town affairs since the 1980’s. RTM member, Moderator and previous Selectmen.

• Retired Lieutenant from the Seekonk Police Department.

• Committees: Human Services/Senior Center, DPW, Human Services Council, advisor on Maple Ave. project.

• Education Level: Masters Degree.

Please vote on April 3rd. Early voting and absentee ballots available. Paid for by The Friends of Michelle Hines

My mission remains the same; providing the best education we can to our children, to make sure they are set up to overcome their challenges and succeed. We have great teachers here in Seekonk. I’ve meet many over my three children’s years at Martin, and speak from my own personal experiences. We need to make sure they are obtaining the resources and tools they need to provide that educational foundation to our children. We need to find out what’s working, what’s not, and adapt where needed. They are one of, if not the most critical component of our educational system. Now more than ever we need to listen to those on the front line teaching our kids. We must not look at neighboring districts or statewide numbers and feel content with where we sit, but push ourselves to excel and be the best this town can be.

We need clear cut transparency. We need to have open conversation with the constituents of this town. We need to make sure questions are answered, and that we address concerns that parents and taxpayers raise. Transparency can sometimes be a word casually thrown around to check a box; not with me. Our educational system

is a public resource, and that is exactly why the school committee exists. We need to respect parental rights, and let all parents know that they have our support.

Through my professional experience, I hope to bring additional assistance in the area of school safety. We have a wonderful police department here in Seekonk. As a police officer, I have a critical understanding of the law enforcement side of this topic. I would love to help be a resource, one that can help communicate with all parties involved; the people, the school committee, administration, and the police department. There is nothing more paramount than to make sure our children are safe.

Thank you for taking the time reading this, and please consider a vote for me, Kyle Juckett, on April 3rd, 2023.

Respectfully,

Kyle Juckett

Dear Seekonk Residents,

My name is David Andrade, and in the past I have had the privilege of receiving your vote to serve on our Seekonk Board of Selectmen. As you may know, I am running for re-election to the Board of Selectmen and I would be honored if you could make sure to participate in the upcoming April Town Election and cast your vote for me.

A lot has happened in Seekonk over the last few years. During my time on the Board, I (together with my colleagues) have worked to maintain a fiscally conservative budget while addressing our public safety needs, increasing transparency in town government by getting our boards and committees to work as a team, and advocated for our capital needs by seeing through critical building projects for our senior center, animal shelter, and our future DPW building. I have worked to manage the Town’s sizable residential growth and the new costs associated with that growth while standing up and saying no when proposals for new growth went too far. In addition, I have worked to ensure that we are building fiscally responsible budgets that look towards the future by establishing fiscal policies to address our Town’s future needs.

I can proudly state that during my time on the Board, I have served as a level headed voice of reason who has never been afraid to stand up and protect our values while making sure Seekonk comes first. I have stood my ground against the special interest developers with one simple guiding compass: Make Sure Seekonk Remains Seekonk!

Thank you for taking the time to read this letter and I once again respectfully ask for your vote.

Best Regards, David

Andrade

Paid for by Friends of Robert Owens

Seekonk Residents:

April 3rd is our town election. We need to fill seats on the Board of Selectmen and the School Committee, these are the positions that have several people who wish to fill the openings. There are other openings with no more than one resident for the positions.

Why vote? This towns form of government requires these positions to be elected positions. Elected by registered town voters. You can register to vote by March 24th. Your vote counts and that’s not just something to say it really counts, I’ve seen elections won or lost by just a couple of votes.

I feel strongly that residents need to have someone in this office that they will know is considering the whole town and doing what is best for all. When reading social media you don’t feel that way and you should. I will be that person. I want all residents to feel free to stand up at a meeting and ask a question and know they will be heard and their issues will be listened to and considered. You shouldn’t feel like what your say doesn’t matter because it does. This town is yours as well as mine and I know not everyone can be on committees, I can and would be honored to represent our town as a member of the Board of Selectmen.

Please vote on April 3rd or do early voting or absentee ballot.

YOUR VOTE COUNTS!

Thank you, Michelle Hines Candidate for Board of Selectmen

Dear Seekonk Neighbor,

I am writing to respectfully ask that you remember to vote for Adam Petronio as your Selectman on April 3rd at the Annual town election.

As Selectman, my first priority is to continue to remain a servantleader and represent the best interests of all Seekonk residents. I understand the responsibility that is entrusted in serving as a member of this board. I pledge to continue the use of skills and experience developed from over 30 years of federal, state, and local service.

Over the past few years Seekonk government continues to evolve to meet the unique challenges of the current era and experiencing growth in the residential and commercial sectors. Prioritized management and leadership are needed to oversee the spending of our hard-earned tax dollars. I continue to believe that is possible through good stewardship and timely decision-making. We all deserve clear, simple, and honest communication efforts so informed voting choices can be made.

It is important for voters to know who they are voting for and how that person makes decisions. My decision-making philosophy is still based upon these simple questions:

• Does this decision meet the purpose of government? (or should it be a private business concern?)

• Is it legal, ethical, and moral?

• Does it meet Fiscal Law rules– Time, Purpose, and Amount?

• Are there any fair practice concerns?

• Should this decision be made at this time?

Thank you for your time and again, I respectfully ask that you consider me, Adam Petronio, when you cast your vote on April 3rd

Sincerely,

Adam Petronio

To the Seekonk Voters,

I am running for election to the Seekonk Board of Water Commissioners. I was a Commissioner from 2016 to 2022. During that time, I served as the Secretary, ViceChairman and Chairman on the Board. I’m ready to contribute from day one.

Your SWD has won awards for excellence from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MADEP). I want to help the SWD to continue to provide good quality water to the residents and businesses of Seekonk.

I ask you to vote for me on election day on Monday, April 3rd.

Thank you, Guy Larrimer

Seekonk

T O W N E L E C T I O N

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From the Clerk

Hello All ~ Happy March! We have been very fortunate with the snow this year! As I am writing this article though, we just received our first “plowable” snow; therefore, a huge thank you to Rehoboth Highway, Facilities & Building Maintenance Department and Public Safety personnel for keeping our roads safe during the storm. The Rehoboth Town Clerk’s Office has been busy processing 2023 census data, dog tag licenses, election nominations, submitting FY 2023 budgets, while also preparing for the upcoming April 4, 2023 Annual Town Election. It sure made the time pass quickly!

Welcome Kerrie Perkins and Jenn Hose to Rehoboth Town Clerk’s Office

Speaking of the Town Clerk’s Office, please join me in welcoming Kerrie Perkins, Assistant Town Clerk and Jennifer Hose, Administrative Aide to the Town Clerk, who began working for the Town on February 13, 2023. Both Kerrie and Jenn bring a wealth of experience to the Town Clerk’s Office and are eager to assist the residents and voters of Rehoboth. Both Jenn and Kerrie were recommended, by unanimous decision of the Interview Committee, for the two positions and are an absolute pleasure to work with. If you are in the area and would like to meet them, please stop by, we are button #8 on the foyer keypad, 340 Anawan Street (Route 118). I would personally like to thank Lynn Shaker for her 17-years of dedicated service to the residents and voters of Rehoboth, as our Assistant Town Clerk. We hope you enjoy your retirement!!

Speaking of dedicated service to the Town Clerk’s Office, I would like to also personally thank, Jan Parker, Retired Seekonk Town Clerk, Kathy Conti, Retired Rehoboth Town Clerk, along with Precinct-2 Clerk, Charlotte Castro and Precinct-2 Warden, Maureen Whittemore for your time, help and expertise in the Clerk’s Office during the transition. I would also like to thank the Interview Committee, Dr. Panofsky, Retired Clerk Kathy Conti and Administrative Assessor, Linda Greaves for your time, dedication, and expertise throughout the interview process. Thank you all for your help ~ truly appreciated !!!

2023 Census Mailer

To those of you submitting your census documents and for registering your dogs so promptly ~ thank you. We mailed 5,580 census forms in January and received and processed 3,771 households to date. We are still looking for 1,809 census forms to be returned (Precinct 1=481; Precinct 2=450; Precinct 3=428 and Precinct 4=450). If you did not send in your 2023 census, please forward as soon as possible. A second mailing will be going out this month to those residents who we do not have phone numbers listed on their census reports and our Registrars, Helene and Jenn, will be calling the remaining residents that have listed phone numbers this month. Census forms were due January 31st and Dog Licenses will be due by April 1st. Also, for those 70 residents in Precinct

Laura Schwall

4, who did not receive your 2023 Census calendar, please contact our office so we can mail one to you as soon as possible. Additionally, anyone wishing a second 2023 calendar, please let us know.

Upcoming Seekonk-Rehoboth Rabies Clinic

Saturday, March 11, 2023

Seekonk has graciously offered to hold the Rabies Clinic at their Public Safety Building (Fire Division), which is located off of Route 44 by the blinking yellow light: 500 Taunton Avenue, Seekonk, MA. The clinic will open at 9:00AM and close at 12:00-Noon on Saturday, March 11, 2023. The Rehoboth Town Clerk’s Office will be there to renew your dog’s 2023 Dog License. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Rehoboth Town Clerk’s Office at 508-252-6502 X-3109, 3112, or 3110. We look forward to seeing you, your dogs and cats. Thank you for keeping our pets safe by having them inoculated.

Dog Licenses for 2023

2023 Dog Licenses are now available and may be obtained in-person, by mail, online at https://permiteyes.us/rehoboth/publichome.php for renewal licenses OR for a new dog, which we do not have on file, you may register online at https://permiteyes.us/ rehoboth/applyforlicense.php . You may also drop off your dog licensing documents at the Town Hall drop box (340 Anawan Street). An application for dog license renewal was included in your 2023 Census mailer and directions for using the new Online Dog License program was also included in the census mailer. If you need help with the online dog licensing, please view the directions online @ https://www.rehobothma.gov/town-clerk/pages/dog-licenses or contact our office – 508-252-6502 X-3109 or X-3112. The licensing fees are as follows: Male or female dog $20.00, female-spayed or male-neutered $10.00. If paying by check, please make sure it is made payable to “Town of Rehoboth”. Dog licenses are due annually by April 1st. Whether renewing online, via mail, drop box, or in person, dog license applications must be accompanied by a current year rabies certificate (with a vaccination date covering the current licensing year-May 1st or later) and proof of spay or neuter [if applying for the $10 licensing fee] unless we already have your documentation on file in the Clerk’s Office. If you are unsure, please give the office a call, and we can tell you how up-to-date our information is. Dog owners should note that the license(s) to be mailed should include a stamped, self-addressed envelope is included with postage (the current postage is 71¢ for one dog tag, 93¢ for two dog tags and 1.15¢ for three tags). As of this writing, we have processed 730 of the 2,000+ dog licenses, which is 22 less than last year at this time ~ thank you all for submitting so quickly and if you have not registered your dog, please do so prior to the April 1st deadline ~ thank you. We hope you like the new online permitting dog licensing program.

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

The Annual Town Election ~ Tuesday, April 4, 2023

The Annual Town Election for the Town of Rehoboth will be held on Tuesday, April 4, 2023 with the polls open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. – All four precinct locations will be voting at one centralized polling location: Francis Farm Community Complex (27 Francis Farm Road) – Museum building. If you would like to review the facility and layout of the polling location, please visit the Town Website at: https://www.rehobothma.gov/home/news/ rehoboth-changes-its-centralized-polling-location-francis-farm-community-center-museum

Nomination papers have been certified with the following candidates running on the April 4, 2023 ballot:

Running for re-election is Bill Cute Moderator (one for 1 year), Board of Selectmen (two positions for 3 years) Rob Johnson, II and Lenny Mills, Jr. are running for re-election, Assessor (one for 3 years) Riccardo Binetti is running for re-election, and Water Commissioner (two for 3 years) Katie Eyer and Tish Vadnais are also running for re-election. School Committee (two for 3 years) incumbents Richard Barrett, Aaron Morse are running along with Robert Owens; all three candidates will be running for the two positions available. Housing Authority (one for five years) is Elizabeth Ruehrwein, Planning Board (two for 5 years) finds incumbent Lenny Mills, Jr. running for re-election along with Tim Dorrance, who is running for his first term. Park Commission (one for 5 years) we have another contested race with incumbent Ken Abrams running for re-election and Miranda Aguiar; both running for the one elected Parks Commission position available. Finally, since Rehoboth moved from 3-4 Precincts in 2021 and voted to add a 4th Constable position at the next Annual Town Election at the 5-14-2022 Annual Town Meeting, we have one Constable position for a 3-year term available. Running for the fourth elected Constable’s position will be Russell Richmond and Gary Zimmer for the one Elected Constable position. As you can see from the detail above, there will be three contested races on the April 4, 2023 Annual Town Election Ballot: D-R Regional School Committee, Parks Commission and Constable. Additionally, at the February 27, 2023 Board of Selectmen’s meeting, the Board voted to place the Bristol-Plymouth Vocational Technical School Debt Exclusion ballot question on the April Town Election Ballot. The ballot question to be voted is:

“Shall the Town of Rehoboth be allowed to exempt from the provisions of proposition two and one-half, so called, the amounts required to pay for the bond issued in order to fund the BristolPlymouth Regional Vocational Technical School District building project?”

Any questions or concerns regarding the above ballot question should be directed to the Board of Selectmen or their office ~ thank you.

The final voter registration date, to be eligible to vote in the Annual Town Election, is scheduled for Saturday, March 25th from 8 AM to 5 PM 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/Voter-reg-mail-in.pdf

Absentee & Mail-In Ballot Requests

Applications for absentee ballots are available as of January 3rd and may be obtained from the Town Clerk’s Office or online @ https://www.sec.state.ma.us/ele/elepdf/absentee/EnglishAbsentee-Ballot-Application.pdf

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

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

• Has a physical disability that prevents voting at the polling place.

• Cannot vote at the polls due to religious beliefs.

If you do not qualify for an “Absentee Ballot”, you can vote by mail by completing the “No Excuse” Vote by Mail ballot application detailed below this paragraph. The filing deadline to apply for a mailed absentee ballot request is five (5) business days before Election Day-Thursday, March 30th at 5:00 PM; “in-person” absentee

Continued next page...

ballot requests for the April 4, 2023 Annual Town Election remain 12:00 p.m. on April 3, 2023, day before the election. Completed ballot requests/applications must be returned to the Town Clerk’s Office no later than 5:00 PM on Thursday, March 30, 2023. All absentee ballots must be returned to the Town Clerk’s Office by mail or dropping off in the outside Ballot Drop Box (located at Town Hall) no later than 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 4, 2023.

No Excuse Early Voting by Mail “Vote By Mail”

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

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

Finally, if you have any questions on any of the above items discussed, please feel free to contact the Town Clerk’s Office at 508-252-6502, X3109, X3112 or X3110. Kerrie, Jenn and I wish all residents a Happy St. Patrick’s Day and we hope to see many of you at the upcoming March 11, 2023 Rabies Clinic and April 5, 2022 Annual Town Election – details above. Please keep warm and safe ~ spring can’t be far away! I look forward to speaking with you in April. Please mark your calendars to vote at the April 4th Election at Francis Farm. Thank you ~ please stay well!

Laura

Rehoboth Land Trust

Annual Meeting: April 6, 2023 at 7:00 pm at Goff Memorial Hall/Blanding Public Library

The Rehoboth Land Trust will hold its Annual Meeting and feature local veterinarian

Dr. Vincent Seccareccia as guest speaker. Dr. Seccareccia, who has a passion for environmental ecology, will discuss emerging health and environmental issues affecting our outdoor activities and animals in southeastern New England. His presentation will touch on various topics of current importance including insect-borne illnesses, invasive species, climate change, and human impacts on native species of plants and animals. As a veterinary professional who integrates his understanding of ecological principles in his work, Dr. Seccareccia will draw on examples from his personal experience. All are welcome to attend.

Rehoboth Food Pantry News

Spring is almost here! Of course, in typical New England fashion, the snow and cold weather has returned to begin March. The Rehoboth Food Pantry is here, serving neighbors in need with confidential fuel and food assistance - helping to make sure all our residents stay warm and well fed. Whatever level your need may be, we are here to help! Young families, singles, seniors, Veterans - the pantry doors are open to any Rehoboth resident that could use a little help. Perhaps you have a tight week and need assistance to supplement your shopping, or have a more regular need due to a financial crisis, we are here to help. Pantry items, canned goods, meats, poultry, bread, milk - we have a variety of items that are available to those in need.

We are open every Thursday from 2:30 - 4:30 for distribution. If you have issues with transportation, you can make arrangements to have food delivered to your home - privately and confidentiallysimply call 508-493-1922 and we can make arrangements.

We have been blessed by a consistent outpouring of support - both financially and with food donations - to keep food on the shelves. We thank each and every one of you - no matter the size of the donation - we are grateful to all of you!

A number of folks have held food drives to aid the pantry in the past couple of months that have really helped the pantry!

• D L Beckwith Middle School- Food Drive recognizing Martin Luther King Jr.

• Confectionery Designs - finishing Holiday Food Drive

• A neighborhood Food Drive brought to Monroe Feed and Grain

• Palmer River Kindergarten Classes were collecting cans to try to total 100 for the 100th Day of School. (they actually collected 375 cans - phenomenal job kids!!)

• Also, Signature Transportation donated many cases of orange juice which was a wonderful addition to the pantry.

As always the Rehoboth community continues to be very generous with food and monetary contribution. For food and pantry donations, these generous businesses have set up convenient drop-off spots:

• Blanding Library – Bay State Road, Rehoboth

• Land-Tek – 477 Winthrop Street, Rehoboth

Dr. Vincent Seccareccia

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

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

For monetary donations please make checks payable to: Rehoboth Food Pantry. For electronic donations, our PayPal address is: https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=DR4FU8URSBZU4.

The Rehoboth Food Pantry is located at 51 Winthrop Street in Rehoboth, MA. We provide confidential food and fuel assistance to Rehoboth residents who are facing difficulties. Every Thursday, between 2:30 and 4:30 the pantry opens its doors (located in the rear of the building) to help provide food and other necessities to residents in need.

If you need assistance, please reach out on our confidential help line at:508-493-1922 or email info@rehobothfoodpantryma.org

Thank You Rehoboth - For Your Continued Support!

It’s A Birthday Blizzard of Giving! Birthday Presents for our Rehoboth Families Facing Challenging Times

The Blizzard of Giving, Inc. is available all year round to help Rehoboth Children. We are here to help make your child’s birthday even more special! Please visit our website www.rehobothblizzardofgiving.org where you can access our request forms and find more information.

• If you would like to include your child(ren) to our Birthday Blizzard list please provide the following information:

• Parent/Guardian’s name, address, email, phone

• Child’s name, gender, birthday month & year, general interests

In order to fulfill your requests, please send in all the above information at least 3 weeks in advanced of when you would like to receive your child’s gifts.

This information can be emailed to rehobothblizzard@gmail.com or mailed to Colleen McBride, 35 Pond Street, Rehoboth, MA 02769.

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

Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Attn: Cathy Edington, 61 Reservoir Ave., Rehoboth, MA 02769

Rehoboth Selectmen Praise Highway Department

By Joe Siegel

Rehoboth Selectman Lenny Mills complimented the work of the town’s highway and building departments Monday. Mills serves as a liaison to the departments. Mills noted the highway department has done good work filling in potholes on local roads. “I know we’re in excellent shape,” said Mills, who encouraged residents to contact the department if they see any problems on their streets.

Board of Selectmen Chair Skip Vadnais cautioned Mills: “Once (the potholes) are reported to you, we have a very short window to fix them.”

Vadnais also lauded the work of the highway department and the building department: “These departments are functioning beyond my dreams and this is the pride that you have instilled in them. There’s a camaraderie and an espirit de corps which did not exist before.”

“We have excellent superintendents and we have excellent employees that are really are trying to do the best they can for the town,” Mills added.

Good News for Rehoboth

By Joe Siegel

The Massachusetts Department of Revenue Division of Local Services certified the amount of $3,580,524.00 in excess and deficiency or “E & D” as of July 1, 2022 for Dighton Rehoboth, according to a press release sent out by the administration.

“Consequently, the district will be crediting the amount due for the next assessment payments from the Towns of Dighton and Rehoboth in the estimated amounts of $504,237 and $665,538 respectively.”

“The unencumbered funds certified in excess of five percent of the operating budget and budgeted capital costs for the succeeding fiscal year must be applied to reduce the current fiscal year’s assessment. For your district, this excess amount equals $1,169,775.00.”

“Optimally, we would like to see this be a lower figure to demonstrate that we are being as diligent as possible in our budget preparations which, in turn, affect the assessments to each town,” D-R Superintendent Bill Runey said Tuesday. “That being said, there continue to be some COVID-era implications to the fiscal management of our schools, and this E&D figure is a reflection of some of those factors. My administration is committed to doing our very best to prepare a budget that is a reflection of a true “ask” of each town.”

The Rehoboth Board of Selectmen remain optimistic about the school budget for the next fiscal year.

“It’s my hope that we will not continue to see these situations where the town is assessed astronomical amount of monies that then create budget problems for us,” Selectman Michael Deignan said Monday. “Because we then go to town meeting and have to fight over money whereas if the proper amount were budgeted and asked for originally, we wouldn’t have some of this contention.”

Deignan cited the “rather poor management and budgeting style of the previous administration.”

Rehoboth Animal Shelter

The Rehoboth Animal Shelter is currently home to two large dogs, both affectionate but in need of training. Brandy is a Fila type about four or five years old and scheduled to be spayed. She enjoys human attention and is interested in other dogs but not inclined to share her toys. Pictures and information about both dogs are online at Petfinder.com. To learn more, to make an appointment, or to report a lost or found pet, please call 508-252-5421, ext. 126, and leave a message.

Brandy

Rehoboth Selectmen Warn of Budget Cuts

By Joe Siegel

The Rehoboth Board of Selectmen are warning residents about what will happen if funding for the Bristol-Plymouth Regional Technical School building project is rejected.

The board voted Monday to place a debt exclusion question on the April 4 election ballot. Last November, voters rejected a debt exclusion, which is a temporary tax increase, to pay for the town’s share of the $305 million project.

Selectman Michael Deignan explained the town would have to pay between $550,000 and $600,000 annually.

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

The building project was approved in March 2022.

Although the project was rejected in Rehoboth, there were enough votes for passage in the member communities which included Berkley, Bridgewater, Dighton, Middleborough, Raynham, and Taunton.

Chairman Skip Vadnais said a rejection of the debt exclusion would have a far reaching impact.

“(Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District) is going to lose revenues,” Vadnais noted. “(The town of Rehoboth) pays (the school district) over three million dollars a year in monies over and above what our requirement is by the state. We hope to be able to continue to do that but before we start dismantling the highway department and the police department and our safety network that we’ve put together here, there’s going to be reductions also to the schools.”

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

Selectmen Appoint Pimental to Finance Job

By Joe Siegel

The Rehoboth Board of Selectmen has appointed former selectwoman Sue Pimental to serve as the town’s Director of Finance and Compliance. Former selectman Gerry Schwall previously served in the position.

“This position is vital to the town,” Chairman Skip Vadnais said Monday.

Pimental will work on a per diem basis until the vetting process is completed. Pimental served as a member of the Finance Committee for six years and has an extensive accounting background.

“I feel very comfortable jumping into this role,” Pimental said.

D-R Superintendent Affirms School Safety

By Joe Siegel

Dighton-Rehoboth School Superintendent Bill Runey told parents about the steps being taken to make sure the schools remain safe.

“Over the past few days, more than 15 school districts across the Commonwealth have been victims of a very disturbing hoax known as ‘Swatting,’ Runey wrote on February 16.

Officials in Milton, Norton, Lexington, Norwood, Gloucester, Salem, Lowell, Leominster, and Lynn reported receiving threats Wednesday, less than 24 hours after at least a dozen other districts were targeted Tuesday.

“For the second consecutive day, Massachusetts State Police units are responding to assist local police in multiple communities following bomb and shooting threats to schools,” state police said in a statement Tuesday. “Thus far every call has been determined to be a hoax.”

“Within our District, those who would be answering phones have been spoken to regarding what to do and what to ask - AND taking everything seriously,” Runey explained. “We will go into

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Hold and Secure immediately. We will then act accordingly to whatever information is given to us. Police and Emergency services will immediately be called. Upon their arrival, the building will be searched and the exterior checked.”

Swatting is described as the action of making a prank call to emergency services in an attempt to evoke a large response (often a SWAT team) to a particular address.

In a statement, a spokesperson for FBI Boston said, “The FBI is aware of the numerous swatting incidents wherein a report of an active shooter at a school is made and is working alongside our law enforcement partners in identifying the source of the hoax threats...It is important to note that law enforcement is going to use all available resources to investigate a school threat until we determine whether it is real or not.”

The Seekonk Scene

From the Clerk

March is here, get ready to spring forward. This year, daylight savings time begins Sunday, March 12th at 2am. That means we lose an hour of sleep but it’s worth it to have a few extra hours of daylight. More good news, the first day of Spring is the 20th - only a few short weeks away!

HOUSING AUTHORITY-For Five Years Vote for ONE

• Open

LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES-For Three Years Vote for TWO

• Fred A. Slemon Jr., Candidate for Re-election

• Catherine E. Capello, Candidate for Re-election

TOWN MODERATOR-For Three Years Vote for ONE

• Peter R. Hoogerzeil, Candidate for Re-election

Craig

Mark your calendars for Seekonk’s Annual Town Election, which will be held on Monday April 3, 2023. All voting takes place at the Seekonk High School gymnasium 261 Arcade Ave. The polls open at 7am and close at 8pm. Due to the 2022 Votes Act legislation approved by the State last summer those voters who do not qualify for an absentee ballot may early vote by mail. You must complete the Vote-by-Mail application. You can find both the Absentee and the Early Voting applications on: www.seekonk-ma.gov

Once on the website go to Departments - Town Clerk - Helpful Documents.

Please remember applications for ballots to be mailed to you, must be received by the Town Clerk by 5pm on the 5th business day before the election, which is 5pm on Monday March 27, 2023.

We will also be offering in-person early voting at the Town Hall starting the week of March 27th and ending on March 31st. The voting hours are Town Hall hours and it will be held in the Board of Selectmen’s meeting room. The last day to register to vote for this election is March 24th. To register to vote or check your voter status go to: vote.gov/ register/ma

Also please note when completing your ballot fill in the oval completely for the candidate you are voting for. Do not use check marks or X’s and please use a black ball point pen or fine-tip felt marker. Do not use pencils, Sharpie’s or thick felt markers as they bleed through the paper making it impossible for the voting machine to read.

If you have any questions about voting for this election, please do not hesitate to call our office 508-336-2920.

Below is a list of the candidates who are running for Town positions:

BOARD OF ASSESSORS-For Three Years Vote for ONE

• Janet Parker

BOARD OF SELECTMEN-For Three Years Vote for TWO

• A. Adam Petronio, Candidate for Reelection

• Pamela Pozzi

• David J. Andrade, Candidate for Reelection

• Michelle A. Hines

continued on next page...

Florice

TOWN CLERK -For Three Years Vote for ONE

• Florice K. Craig, Candidate for Re-election

PLANNING BOARD -For Five Years Vote for ONE

• Lee B. Dunn, Candidate for Re-election

SCHOOL COMMITTEE-For Three Years Vote for ONE

• Bernard James Luger

• Kyle J. Juckett

WATER COMMISSIONER -For Three Years Vote for One

• Guy D. Larrimer

*Plase note there is an official write in campaign for the Water Commissioner seat by: Jeffery Starr Mararian

There will also be non-binding questions on the ballot. The election results will be discussed after the election.

NON-BINDING BALLOT QUESTIONS

Is the Town in favor of changing its form of government from an appointed Town Administrator/ Board of Selectmen/Open Town Meeting to another form of government such as a Representative Town Meeting, elected Mayor/elected Town Council or appointed Town Manager/elected Town Council, or otherwise?

____Yes ____No

• Is the Town in favor of changing its form of government from an appointed Town Administrator/ Board of Selectmen/Open Town Meeting to an elected Mayor/elected Town Council form?

____Yes ____No

• Is the Town in favor of changing its form of government from an appointed Town Administrator/ Board of Selectmen/Open Town Meeting to an appointed Town Manager/ elected Town Council form? ____Yes ____No

• Is the Town in favor of changing its form of government from an appointed Town Administrator/ Board of Selectmen/Open Town Meeting to an appointed Town Administrator/elected Board of Selectmen/ Representative (elected) Town Meeting form? ____Yes ____No

Save the Date

The Annual Spring Town Meeting will be held Monday May 8, 2023 7PM at the Seekonk High School Auditorium 261 Arcade Ave.

Annual Rabies Clinic

Annual Rabies Clinic will be held Saturday March 11, 2023 at the Seekonk Public Safety Building Fire Division, 500 Taunton Ave. It is for both cats and dogs; the fee is $15.00 cash only. The attending Veterinarian will be Dr. Truesdale. If you bring proof of a current rabies vaccine your animal will be eligible for a 3-year rabies vaccine. If you don’t have proof of a current rabies vaccine you will be eligible for a 1-year vaccine.

Have a great month.

– Florice & Lorraine

Chick-a-Dee-Dee

Seekonk Land Conservation Trust

Winter is a good time to start watching birds. Their energy and activity enliven the quiet landscape, while leafless trees make it easier to spot even the smaller birds. Attracting common species to bird feeders provides the opportunity to appreciate the details of color and patters of plumage and to note the birds’ behaviors and interactions. Over time, you may be able to recognize individuals and start to develop an understanding of the relationships within the flock and between species.

On winter outings by ski or snowshoe, I listen for calls and chattering of black-capped chickadees (Poecile atricapillus) as they move in small groups through the forest. Although chickadees are reliable visitors at bird feeders, at least half of their diet consists of animal prey. They spend considerable time investigating cracks and crevices in bark, exploring clumps of dead leaves, and examining twigs in search of dormant insects and spiders, including eggs and larvae. Groups of chickadees attract other songbirds who understand the chickadees’ calls and travel with them in feeding guilds gleaning for tiny prey. Traveling as a group can result in more successful foraging and also provides the birds more safety from predators.

The chickadee is the core species of the feeding guild that may include nuthatches, brown creepers, golden-crowned kinglets, and downy woodpeckers. The individuals in mixed-species flocks forage on different trees or different parts of the same tree. The members tend to have different bill sizes and shapes, which indicates that they are seeking different prey and are not in direct competition for food. Finding a flock of chickadees and their companions provides an opportunity to see less conspicuous birds like the brown creeper and golden-crowned kinglet that can be hard to spot otherwise.

Chickadees store seeds for the winter by tucking then into crevices, clusters of spruce needles, or any place the seeds will fit. A chickadee may store as many as a thousand seeds a day and can remember where they are stored. Birds that live in colder climates where storing food is important have a hippocampus — the part of the brain involved in spatial memory — that enlarges in the fall and shrinks in the spring. Blue jays are also expert at storing abundant seeds and retrieving them at a later date. This means of storing food is known as scatter hoarding and is found throughout the animal kingdom. A chickadee will excavate a snug cavity in a tree “snag” for roosting on winter nights. Red- and white-breasted nuthatches utilize old woodpecker holes for roosting. To make your yard a welcoming place for winter birds, it’s a good idea to allow some snags to remain nearby to provide roosting spots.

Winter birding invites the curious observer to develop a deeper appreciation for local bird life. And it assures us that the forest is an active place even in the cold and hush of the shortest days of the year.

Numerous resources offer information about birds and birding. The Cornell Lab website, allaboutbirds.org is a good place to start.

Reprinted from Adirondac magazine with permission of the publisher and author, Audrey Hyson.

For further information, please see https://www.seekonklandtrust.org or follow us on www.facebook.com/seekonkLCT

Seekonk Animal Shelter News

The 2023 annual rabies clinic, for cats, dogs, and ferrets, will be held on Saturday, March 11 at the Seekonk Public Safety Building Fire Division, 500 Taunton Ave. Clinic will be from 9 am to 12 pm. The fee is $15.00 cash only. The attending veterinarian will be Dr. Truesdale. If you bring proof of a current rabies vaccine, your animal will be eligible for a 3-year rabies vaccine. If you do not have proof of a current rabies vaccine, you will be eligible for a 1-year vaccine. All dogs must be on leashes. All cats/ferrets must be in carriers. It is Massachusetts law that all pets should be current on their rabies vaccines.

Recycling Tip from the Recycling Committee

The cash register receipts that you receive when you shop are not recyclable. The paper on which they are printed is chemically coated and that makes them too difficult to be recycled. Simply toss them in the trash if you do not need to save them for your records.

Lucky’s Pub Feeding the Hungry in East Providence & Seekonk

Last December, Lucky’s Pub in East Providence held a “Guest Bartender” fundraising event one week before Christmas. It was a football Sunday afternoon, and the bar was filled with friends of the volunteer bartenders Mike Tortolani, Mike Benevides, Karissa Bailey and Chris Dicecco, who tended bar for four hours while donating all tips to two local food banks. In addition, Lucky’s Pub donated 10% of all receipts for the afternoon, and then added several hundred dollars to reach a final donation of $4,000.00 from the event. Billy Lewis, the proprietor of Lucky’s Pub, pronounced the fundraiser a success and hopes to make it an annual event. We are fortunate to have such community-minded businessmen taking an active role in helping our neighbors in need. On behalf of the families you are helping to feed, we say “Thank You”.

Seekonk Recycling Committee

Lucky’s Pub raised $4,000 to combat hunger, with the funds being split between food pantries in East Providence and Seekonk. (Above) Mike Tortolani, representing Lucky’s Pub, presents a check for to Diane Fox, Suzie Miller, and Gerry McCabe of Doorways.

Looking Back… to Old-Fashioned Thanksgivings

By Phyllis Dupere

Frazao Insurance

Earth Day in Seekonk April 22, 2023

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

Karen E. Frazao Owner ~ An Independent Agent

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

Now that the pandemic is mostly behind us, it is a good time to help make Seekonk a cleaner and more beautiful place to live. Be a part of our annual Earth Day celebration and join the Litter Patrol. Volunteers will receive Earth Day shirts, supplies for the cleanup collection and giveaways in thanks for their service.

To do so, please contact Bill Kirchmann, Recycling Coordinator, by email at wkirchmann@seekonk-ma.gov or by phone 508-3368523, and be added to the list. Hope to see you then.

Seekonk Memorial Day Parade

The Seekonk Memorial Day Parade is being held on Saturday, May 27th, rain or shine. Join us as we honor members of our military who are either missing or who have lost their lives while serving in the armed forces of the United States.

All Participants will muster at 9:00 am at the Seekonk High School – 261 Arcade Ave, Seekonk, MA. The parade will step off at 10:00 am sharp and will follow the same route as in previous years, ending at the Middle School on Newman Avenue. A ceremony will be held at the Seekonk Veterans Memorial Park immediately after the parade.

Please contact James LaFlame, Director of Veterans Services at 508-336-2940 or jlaflame@seekonk-ma.gov if you would like to participate or have any questions.

Seekonk Fire Museum News

Seekonk Fire Museum 2023 Monthly Opening dates:

10AM-NOON

April 15

May 20

August 19

June 17

July 15

September: 16

The Seekonk Fire Museum/Central Volunteer Fire Association

Fire Co. 3 - 2022 Year in Review

The museum opened from April through September and each year one of the exhibit rooms is dedicated annually in memory of a Seekonk Fire Dept. member. Chief David Bowden was honored with memorabilia of Chief’s long time history and dedication to the CVFA as well as his commitment to community service.

A new addition to the Museum was the Wall of Honor dedicated to the history of the three original Seekonk Fire Stations and their members. A portion of the wall is also dedicated to the Central 6, six members of the CVFA who were killed in World War II. The Central 6 Memorial Garden at the museum was updated in the spring and now includes a plaque donated by family and friends in memory of Edmund Korkuc our most senior member who passed away in March of 2022.

The museum members and our 1953 Maxim antique fire engine participated throughout the year in numerous parades and events including the annual Seekonk Memorial Day Parade, the Library Pre-School program’s annual visit to the museum. Fire Chief Sandra Lowery and Police Chief Dean Isabella also attended the event. Participation in the annual Warwick, RI Gaspee Days Parade took place in June.

In August Seekonk’s Police National Night Out was hosted at the Seekonk Safety Complex. The annual CVFA outing took place, highlighted by the presentation of the Warren N. Carpenter Memorial Scholarship that was awarded to Gina Carpenter. Gina attends Boston University and is the daughter of Joe Carpenter and Renee Lambert and granddaughter of CVFA members Warren S. and Margaret Carpenter. The scholarship is in memory of Deputy Chief Carpenter and was presented to Gina by the Deputy Chief’s daughter Kerri Carpenter-Cosgrove and fellow CVFA member Rich George, who are the Chairpersons of the scholarship.

The months of October, November and December were a busy off season for the museum. Seekonk Celebrates, and the Seekonk Fire Dept hosted their annual open house at the Seekonk Safety Complex as well. A very special event in Riverside, RI took place in October to honor the memory Edmund Korkuc. Ed was also the Manager of the Rhode Island Big League All Star baseball team that advanced to the Big League World Series in 1978 in Florida. Seekonk had four players represented on the team and three members from Seekonk were in attendance, Chris Lima, Gary Najas and Joe Sousa. Glenn Larrabee was also a teammate from Seekonk. A plaque honoring the team that finished seventh in the world was unveiled at the Ron Silva Baseball Complex.

Our honorable military Veterans were once again aboard the Maxim for the annual Seekonk rolling Veterans Day Parade. Santa arrived in December at the Seekonk Little League complex with his Elves and helpers and completed his Seekonk visit with an annual rolling Christmas ride to visit the students at Martin and Aitken Schools the week before Christmas.

Highlights upcoming in 2023!

The Seekonk Fire Museum is honored to be chosen to host attendees of the Society for the Preservation of Antique Motor Fire Apparatus in America on Friday July 14th. The national event is July 11-15, 2023 at the Crowne Plaza in Warwick, RI in partnership with the Rhode Island Antique Fire Apparatus Society.

We thank you for the continued support of the Seekonk Fire Museum as we rely on your gracious donations to continue to honor and support the members and memories of Fire, Police and EMS departments throughout our country!

always appreciated and can be mailed to:

Seekonk Unveils New Website

By Joe Siegel

Seekonk unveiled their new town website. All town boards can be accessed under the Government tab on the home page – https:// www.seekonk-ma.gov

When you click on Board of Selectmen, the times and dates of meetings are listed, along with agendas and minutes. Contact information for all the members is also listed.

The Departments tab contains links to Administration, Animal Control, Building, Collector, Finance, Fire, Library, Public Works, Town Clerk, and the Police department. Staff contact information and a listing of services are provided, along with links for obtaining licenses and permits.

The Business tab includes a Business Directory, which provides listings from A through Z. A drop down menu allows the user to select options such as Blue bag vendors, Domestic violence and elder abuse, registered engineers, septic installers, service organizations and VA hospitals.

The bottom of the home page features Town Hall hours and links for information about parking citations and tickets, fire prevention and safety, and public records requests.

All meeting agendas for town boards and committees can also be accessed by clicking on the Agendas and Minutes tab on the bottom of the home page.

Paying Cash For

Voters May Choose New Town Government for Seekonk

By Joe Siegel

The Seekonk Board of Selectmen has authorized a non-binding advisory question on the April 3 election ballot. Voters will have the opportunity to show support for a different type of town government.

The ballot options may include electing a Town Manager and Town Council or a Mayor and Town Council or keeping the current format of Town Administrator, Board of Selectmen, and town meetings.

A newly formed Charter Commission would then recommend whether or not the town’s form of government can be changed.

“We need to get it out there, educate (residents) as much as we can before the actual vote,” Selectman Michael Healy said Wednesday. “Let the people decide if they want to make any type of a change.”

“It’s all data points, it’s all feedback,” Selectman Adam Petronio noted.

“I personally believe we have outlived our form of government and would be better served by an elected town council with either an elected Town Manager, Administrator, or Mayor,” said Gary Sagar at the board’s February 1 meeting.

Sagar requested the board approve a ballot question.

Michelle Hines, a former selectwoman as well as a candidate for the Board, asked if the members were setting a precedent by placing a citizen’s request on an election ballot.

“To be honest with you, I think any resident should feel free to write a letter to the chairman or any board member and say ‘hey, is this something we can consider,’” replied Chairman Justin Sullivan. “Residents should feel free to e-mail any board member or the chair for consideration, it doesn’t guarantee that’s it’s going to advance any further but this particular question itself had some validity.”

Residents May Pay Fee for Stormwater Fund

By Joe Siegel

There will be a much higher expense to the town in dealing with stormwater runoff, and residents may have to pay for it.

“It’s a very significant cost impact to the town of Seekonk moving forward,” Town Administrator Shawn Cadime said at the Board of Selectmen’s February 15 meeting with the Planning Board.

“Someone still probably putting fertilizer on their property, that water is going through the system, getting into our overall system and still impacting that water quality,” explained Town Planner John Aubin.

Cadime said the board had appropriated $440,000 “which was going to give us a leg up on some of the requirements coming through with the testing and the MS4 permitting.”

“If it comes out of the General Fund, we’re pulling from a pool of money and competing with other departments and then we’re going to have to make difficult decisions,” Cadime noted, adding Seekonk has to address the maintenance of catch basins and other methods of handling stormwater to be in compliance with state and federal requirements as dictated by the Clean Water Act.

Under the CWA, the Environmental Protection Agency has implemented pollution control programs such as setting wastewater standards for industry. EPA has also developed national water quality criteria recommendations for pollutants in surface waters.

The CWA made it unlawful to discharge any pollutant from a point source into navigable waters, unless a permit was obtained.

Cadime said there would be a flat fee for residential properties and a higher fee for all commercial and industrial property “which has more impact into the system.”

Seekonk Schools Will Be Open on Good Friday

By Joe Siegel

Seekonk Public Schools will be open on Good Friday like they were last year, says Superintendent Rich Drolet.

Josh Troiano, a senior at Seekonk High School, asked the school department to close schools on Good Friday. Seekonk opened schools on the holiday in 2022.

“I understand the motive behind the change but it’s impractical, unfair and misguided to continue to have school on Good Friday for the second year in a row,” Troiano said at Monday’s school committee meeting.

Troiano noted many surrounding school districts continue to have no school on Good Friday. Troiano also presented a petition signed by 317 high school students.

“Parents can excuse their students from school on this day for religious reasons if they choose, just like last year,” Drolet said Wednesday. “Being an educator, if a student ever reaches out, I will always take the time to meet with them to explain decisions. If you go back and watch the Jan. 23rd School Committee Meeting when this was on the agenda, it was discussed and voted on as part of the School Committee approving the proposed 2023-2024 school calendar.”

Harassment Charges Lodged Against School Committee

By Joe Siegel

The ongoing dispute between a parent and members of the Seekonk School Committee has resulted in allegations of harassment. In a February 8 district court filing, attorney Marc Randazza, who is representing Luis Sousa in his lawsuit against Superintendent Rich Drolet and the School Committee, expressed his opposition to a request for a protective order.

“The Defendants’ allegations are baseless,” Randazza wrote. “Sousa has not engaged in any behavior that could remotely qualify as harassing, intimidating, or threatening. Drolet may have felt annoyed that Sousa was protesting outside his workplace, but voicing negative opinions of a government official without any implication of physical violence or contact does not constitute fighting words.”

Last October, Drolet had issued a No Trespass Order to Sousa, a parent of two students at Aitken Elementary School, as a result of incidents at two school committee meetings.

For the last few months, Sousa and his wife, Kanessa Lynn, have been protesting outside school buildings. They have held signs which called committee vice-chair Kim Sluter a “(expletive) liar” and for Drolet to be “fired.”

Lynn posted photos of her and Sousa’s protests on Facebook, and the defendants admitted “to stalking her social media”, according to Randazza.

“On December 12, 2022, Lynn posted a video about “how obsessed people in this town had become of me and my family. They’re flying a drone over us to watch us protest outside the school.”

continued on next page...

“On December 15, Lynn posted a picture of Sousa protesting outside with a sign that says “FIRE Superintendent DROLET He’s Banning PARENTS.” On December 23, Lynn posted a picture of Sousa protesting while dressed up as the Grinch.”

“The Defendants’ purpose in filing their Motion is to harass and intimidate Sousa and Lynn from exercising their First Amendment Rights,” Randazza continued. “This is part of a larger pattern by the Defendants to silence their perceived detractors.”

Randazza added Sousa and Lynn has also been the subject of derision while attending School Committee meetings:

“The Committee is no longer enforcing a policy that restricts people from public speaking outside of the time they are recognized during Public Speak. In fact, they are encouraging, endorsing, and ratifying the harassment of their opponents.”

“We have no comment on the specific allegations raised in plaintiff’s opposition to our motion for a protective order,” Sluter said in a statement Monday on behalf of herself, Drolet, and Bridget McNamara, Drolet’s secretary, also named in the filing. “A response, if any, will be made in Court. As the parties remain in litigation, we have no further comment at this time.”

Sousa’s suit was filed October 20 in the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts. The complaint alleged Drolet and the members of the school committee committed violations of Sousa’s rights under the first and fourteenth amendments, pertaining to free speech and equal protection, along with the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA). Sousa claims he suffers from bipolar disorder.

The No Trespass Order was lifted last December and Sousa is now allowed to attend school committee meetings.

“You bullied me, you bullied my (children),” Sousa told Drolet on February 6. “I’m going to say what I want to say because I can.”

School Committee Meetings No Longer Live-streamed on Facebook

By Joe Siegel

Seekonk School Committee meetings are no longer being live-streamed on Facebook. “In early December, it was brought to our attention that the streaming of our meetings couldn’t happen because of a technical issue,” member Noah Escaler said. “It’s been over two months and parents and citizens have reached out to me and asked when the meetings will resume being live-streamed.”

Escaler contacted Superintendent Rich Drolet and was informed that committee chairwoman Erin Brouillette directed him not to livestream the meetings anymore and that he supported that decision.

Escaler noted the decision not to live-stream was never discussed with the public and he was never advised of the decision when it was made.

“This was not asked to be on the agenda nor has it been brought to our attention so this is not the right forum for the topic,” Brouillette said, adding Escaler could wait until the public comment portion of the meeting to state his views.

Escaler declined to speak during the public comment portion.

“I am not speaking on behalf of the school committee, I’m speaking (on behalf of) the people of this town,” Escaler replied. “My duty on this committee is not to protect the school committee but to protect the people of this town.”

“No one is asking you to protect anybody,” Brouillette added.

“Our meetings are broadcast in real time through the local television station (Channel 17), so they are live streamed, just not through Facebook anymore,” Drolet said Tuesday.

Drolet noted the school district had experienced technical issues with live streaming through Facebook. “We put the recording of the meetings on our website the following day after the meetings,” Drolet continued. “Individuals can attend the meetings in person. Given all these avenues for individuals to participate and watch meetings, including in real time remotely, we did not feel it was needed to also broadcast the meetings through an additional platform anymore, especially because we were concerned about various aspects of Facebook live streaming, such as the comment feature and other data security and privacy concerns. We believe these chosen communication methods allow the entire community access to our school committee meetings.”

University News

Endicott College Announces Dean’s List

Beverly, Mass. (February 6, 2023) - Endicott College, the first college in the U.S. to require internships of its students, is pleased to announce its Fall 2022 Dean’s List students.

Rehoboth, MA

• Reece Cordeiro, Architectural Studies

• Ella Gesner, Nursing

• Matthew Nadeau, Business Management

• Harrison Pray, Communication Seekonk, MA

• Faith DaSilva, Environmental Science

• Grace Ippolito, Libl Studies/Education

• Nicholas Kasper, Exercise Science

• Lucy Lewis, Healthcare Management

• Katerina Mihailides, Nursing

Plymouth State University

Announces President’s List

Camryn G. Loomis of Seekonk has been named to the Plymouth State University Fall Semester President’s list. A 2022 graduate of Seekonk High School, she is a freshman nursing major, and a member of the women’s panther lacrosse team.

Area Residents Named to Dean’s List for the

Fall 2022 Semester at Quinnipiac University

Hamden, Connecticut - The following area students were named to the dean’s list for the Fall 2022 semester at Quinnipiac University:

Rehoboth: Gabriella Moreira

Seekonk: Jacob Barreira, Charles Lehourites

Serenna Cabral Named to Dean’s List at Western New England University

Springfield, MA -- Seekonk, MA resident, Serenna Cabral, has been named to Western New England University’s Dean’s List for the Fall 2022 semester. Cabral is working toward a Pre-Pharmacy Degree.

Ithaca College Students Named to Fall

2022 Dean’s List

Ithaca, NY -- Ithaca College congratulates students named to Dean’s List for the fall 2022 semester.

Rehoboth: Casey David, Sebastian Pickford

Seekonk: Elias Scotti

Curry College Fall 2022 Dean’s List

Milton , MA - Curry College congratulates students who were named to the Fall 2022 Dean’s List.

Rehoboth: Ean McGonigle, Nicole Moreira

Seekonk: Abby Sousa

Ethan Leland of Rehoboth Named to the University of Hartford’s Dean’s List

West Hartford, CT -- The University of Hartford is pleased to announce Ethan Leland of Rehoboth has been named to the Dean’s List for Fall 2022.

Albert Tatton Graduated from Castleton University

Castleton, VT -- Albert Tatton of Rehoboth MA graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Castleton University following the successful completion of the fall semester in December 2022.

Roger Williams University Announces

Fall 2022 Dean’s List

Bristol, RI -- Select students have been named to the Fall 2022 Dean’s List at Roger Williams University in Bristol, R.I.

Rehoboth: Brianna Benjamin, Cam Devolle, Benjamin Dubois, Isaiah Farrar, Andrew Gouveia, Hailey Medeiros, Mackenzie Morgenweck, Emma Oneill, Margaret Saxon

Seekonk: Liz Bradshaw, Chanelle Gomez, Lilly MacDonald, Jane MacIel, Maddy Meyer

University of Maine Announces Fall 2022 Dean’s List

The University of Maine recognized 3,010 students for achieving Dean’s List honors in the fall 2022 semester.

Rehoboth: Owen Hebda, Jack McCann, Sabina Myers

Seekonk: Andrew Lancellotti

Local Residents named to RIT Dean’s List

Rochester, NY -- The following students were named to the Dean’s List at Rochester Institute of Technology for the fall semester of the 2022-2023 academic year.

• John Lewandowski of Rehoboth, biomedical engineering.

• Jakob Gries of Seekonk, computer engineering technology. Marc Thaler of Rehoboth

Named to UNH Dean’s List

Marc Thaler of Rehoboth has been named to the Dean’s List at the University of New Hampshire for earning High Honors for the fall 2022 semester. Marc is majoring in Liberal Arts.

Emerson College Student Matthew Kugel

Earns Dean’s List for Fall 2022 Semester

Boston, MA -- Emerson College student Matthew Kugel of Seekonk earned Dean’s List honors for the Fall 2022 Semester. Matthew Kugel is majoring in Marketing Communication and is a member of the Class of 2025.

Lauren DeCoste named to President’s List at Coastal Carolina

University

Conway, SC -- Lauren DeCoste, from Rehoboth was named to the President’s List at Coastal Carolina University for the Fall 2022 semester. Students who made the President’s List have achieved a 4.0 grade point average during the semester.

More than 2,700 Students Make Fall 2022 Dean’s List at CCU

Conway, SC -- More than 2,700 undergraduate students at Coastal Carolina University were named to the Dean’s List for the Fall 2022 semester. Students who make the Dean’s List have achieved a grade point average of 3.5 or higher (3.25 for freshmen) for the semester. Dean’s List students include:

Mia DiPippo of Seekonk

Kylie Palmer of Rehoboth

Husson University Announces Fall 2022 Dean’s List

Bangor, ME -- The following students from Seekonk have been named to the Fall 2022 Dean’s List at Husson University:

• Matt Boutin is enrolled in Husson’s Doctor of Physical Therapy/ Bachelor of Science in exercise science program.

• Cam Silva is enrolled in Husson’s Bachelor of Science in business administration program.

Rehoboth Ramblings

by Leslie Patterson

A Wise Woman from the North

Does the idea of growing older sometimes seem to be relentlessly depressing? I recently read the very enjoyable “The Swedish Art of Aging Exuberantly” by Margareta Magnusson, who is in her late 80’s. I confess that I haven’t yet tackled her previous book, “The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning”, being a little creeped out by the title. At first it sounded to me like those specialist cleaners who have the unenviable job of mopping up after murders. But I guess that wouldn’t be gentle, would it?

What the Swedish phrase “dostadning” means is clearing out your accumulated clutter while you still can, so your children or other relatives aren’t stuck with this dreaded chore once you’ve departed this life. As the author bluntly explains, “The idea is that we should not leave a mountain of crap behind for our loved ones to clean up when we die.” 100% Coverage No one offers a better deal!

Swedes sometimes have the reputation of being gloomy and dour but this writer is indeed ebullient. Judging from her photos and videos, Mrs. Magnusson is still bright and lively and looks at least 20 years younger. She’s led an interesting life, having five children in the 1960’s and then moving around the world with her husband’s job.

Her American stay was in Annapolis back in the 1970’s and she has many amusing stories from that era. The children picked up English very easily but she found it harder. (I pity anyone who has to learn English as an adult. It’s a language that seems to have more exceptions than rules). But Margareta is now a fluent English speaker and writer. The family also lived for a time in Hong Kong and Singapore before returning to Sweden, so they became quite the world travelers.

Margareta had a difficult time after losing her husband Lars some years ago but eventually got her optimism back. She moved from their small coastal city of Gothenburg to Stockholm to immerse herself in its lively arts scene, a life-long passion. Later, she also had a near-death experience with a heart attack but bounced back from that as well. She said she didn’t see any angels or a tunnel with bright light, in case anyone is wondering, but afterwards “slowly it dawned on me that I had just gotten my life back…. I felt very happy.”

Some of her advice you’ve heard before, such as volunteer as much as you can, don’t fall over (the author fell and broke her pelvis right at the start of the pandemic lockdown but now is able to live on her own again), and keep an open mind. Other suggestions are more quirky, such as eat chocolate, have a gin and tonic with a friend, and wear stripes (not my thing, but to each her own, and yes to the chocolate.)

Mrs. Magnusson urges her readers to remember “no matter how ancient you become, there are always new discoveries, new mind-sets though which to see your life and the experiences you have had. And new and familiar pleasures to be had every day.”

One of the pleasures of nature that often attracts older people is bird-watching, though a number of younger people are interested in our avian friends too. I know that those dedicated to this pastime are called “birders” but I don’t qualify for this title, though I have friends who are true birders and are very good at it. My eyesight, never excellent, is even more problematic now but I do enjoy seeing birds in general and are glad to see a variety of them at the back yard feeder.

Bluebirds Flourishing

Bluebirds, that symbol of happiness, are now flourishing in Rehoboth. Hank Coleman says, “Through the efforts of the 49 members of the Rehoboth Bluebird Society there has been a marked increase in bluebird sightings throughout our town. For the first time, people are reporting small flocks of bluebirds visiting mealworm feeders and inspecting nesting boxes for use this Spring. One person had over 20 bluebirds in one flock. In addition to the efforts of our members, three bluebird trails in Rehoboth, situated on the grounds of Crestwood golf course, Hazelton golf course and the farm property of the Otis Dyer family, are responsible for the resurgence of this original harbinger of Spring.” Hank encourages anyone interested in wildlife conservation to visit their display at Munroe Feed or to contact him at hjcoleman@comcast.net.

Events & Activities

Crazy Clam 5K & 5M

When: March 12, 2023

Where: Francis Farms, Rehoboth, MA / Start: 8am

REGISTER: Join us for the Crazy Clam

5K & 10K. The race will start and finish at Francis Farm, Rehoboth, MA

RACE INFORMATION: The race will be chipped timed. All registrants will receive a finishers medal.

• 5K course is basically flat with a small hill at mile 2

• 5 miler course is basically flat with a small incline at mile 2

COURSE RESOURCES: There will be 2 water stops on the 5 miler and 1 on the 5k AWARDS: All participants will receive a medal. Trophies for the overall male/female in the 5 miler and 5k

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Set in the countryside of Rehoboth, MA. The course is pretty much flat and fast except for a small incline at mile 2.

PACKET PICK UP: Race day morning only for this event

QUESTIONS? Contact Us Today! oceanstatemultisport@gmail.com

401.688.5779

PO Box 14103 East Providence, RI 02914

© 2023 Oceanstate Multisport. All rights reserved.

The Rehoboth Bluebird Society

For Membership info or questions, contact Hank Coleman at 508.243.0244 or email hjcoleman@comcast.net or email Thurston Tarter pttarter@gmail.com

Open Casting Call - Slice of Life New Works Festival

Theatre One Productions, Inc of Middleboro, is holding an Open Casting Call for male and female actors, all races, ages 20’s to 60’s, for our upcoming Stage Readings, of 10 -New 10- Minute Plays. The Auditions will be held at Janice C. Parent Community Center, 8 Benton St, Middleboro MA, Sunday March 12, from 1pm to 4pm, and Monday, March 13 from 6 to 8pm. Please bring a headshot and resume, there is no pay involved. The Slice of Life New Works Festival, sponsored in part by the Middleboro Cultural Council and the Lakeville Arts Council, will be performed at the Mitchell Memorial Club, 29 Elm St, Middleboro, MA, Saturday Evening March 25th, at 7:30pm and Sunday afternoon, March 26th at 2PM. Any questions please email Artistic Director Peg Holzemer at theatreoneproductions@yahoo.com

Arts in the Village Presents The Haven String Quartet with Andrius Zlabys on March 18

On Saturday, March 18, the Haven String Quartet and pianist Andrius Zlabys mark their return to Arts in the Village with a beautiful and evocative program featuring Gabriel Fauré’s Piano Quintet No. 1 in D Minor and George Walker’s Lyric for Strings. Fauré’s Quintet, is filled with mesmerizing and haunting writing for both strings and piano, while Walker’s breathtaking Lyric for Strings is dedicated to his formerly enslaved grandmother. In addition to concertizing throughout the region, the Haven String Quartet spearheads the non-profit Music Haven, a nationally recognized free after-school lessons program. Grammy-nominated pianist Andrius Zlabys has placed himself in the forefront of today’s practitioners of his instrument. Born in Lithuania and trained at the Curtis Institute of Music, Zlabys made his Carnegie Hall debut in 2001.

This concert will take place on Saturday, March 18, at 7:30 p.m., at Goff Memorial Hall, 124 Bay State Road, in Rehoboth, MA 02769. The doors open at 7:00 p.m., first come, first seated. Wheelchair accessible. General admission is $22, $20 for seniors, and $8 for students and children. Payment may be made by cash, credit card, or check (made out to Rehoboth Antiquarian Society).

When: April 2, 2023

Time: 7:30 to 11:30am

Where: East Providence Senior Center

610 Waterman Ave, East Providence

For information, call 508-431-6879; http://www.rehobothantiquarian.org/arts-in-the-village/ This program is supported in part by a grant from the Rehoboth Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.

Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School Class of 1973 ~ 50th Reunion

Saturday, August 19, 2023 Time: 5PM-10PM

Five Bridge Inn, 152 Pine Street, Rehoboth MA 02769

Hors d’oeuvres – Cash Bar

Buffet Dinner – DJ – Dancing

$75 per person. Reservations now being accepted.

Attire: Evening Casual

Visit our facebook page: Dighton-Rehoboth Class of 1973 or contact Janice Hagopian Narsasian at jnarsasian@gmail.com. Please leave your name, street address, email address, and phone number. You will be contacted with addition information.

Craft Fair

St. Nicholas Of Myra Catholic Church

499 Spring Street No. Dighton, Ma. 02764

Saturday- March 25th. 9AM-3PM

Crafts- Bake Sale- Raffles Info- Brian @ 774.217.0390

Anawan Fire Association, Inc.

P.O. Box 824

Rehoboth, MA 02769-0824

New England Clam Boil

Sponsored By Anawan Fire Association

Friday March 31, 2023 at 7:00 PM

Seekonk Gun Club; 61 Reed Street, Rehoboth, MA

Tickets - $35.00 Each

Prizes Will Be Raffled

Tickets Only – No Walk-Ins

For Tickets Call (508) 226-2914 or E-Mail DERICKRFD@gmail.com

Spring Psychic Fair

April 30th

at the Seekonk American Legion

We will be holding our Spring Psychic Fair on Sunday, 4/30/23 at the Seekonk American Legion located at 351 Fall River Ave, 2nd floor, Seekonk, MA. Admission is free. 15-minute readings are $20.00 each. There will also be several Vendors/Crafters (spaces still available). The hours are from 10 am to 3 pm. Proceeds to benefit the American Legion Auxiliary programs for our Veterans, community, and children. For more information, please call 508-336-9822 or send email to auxiliary311@yahoo.com.

Taste of the Town 25th Annual

Presented by Seekonk Lions Club and Chris Gasbarro’s Fine Wine & Spirits

Pat r iots Day

Monday April 17, 2023

5:00PM – 8:00PM

More info coming soon!

Check

Must

The Haven String Quartet and Andrius Zlabys perform for Arts in the Village on Saturday, March 18

ChurCh News & eveNts

Rehoboth Congregational Church News

Welcome Rev. Dr. Helen Nablo

Join RCC in welcoming The Rev. Dr. Helen Nablo as our new interim pastor on Sunday March 12th!

Lenten Worship Series

Rev. Dr. Nablo will be preaching on the Spiritual Practice of Seeking this Lenten Season.

Worship With Us Every Sunday

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

Spaghetti Supper & Dessert Auction

WE HAVE FIRST COMMUNION DRESSES, BOYS SUITS AS WELL AS RELIGIOUS ITEMS AND ACCESSORIES!

HOURS: MONDAY, TUESDAY, THURSDAY AND FRIDAY 10:00AM TO 6:00PM WEDNESDAY 11:00AM TO 5:00PM | SATURDAY 9:30AM TO 5:00PM 88 TAUNTON AVENUE, EAST PROVIDENCE, RI 02914

Spaghetti Supper reservations are now open! Please call our Missions Committee at 401-339-4785 to make a reservation. Dinner will begin at 6pm with the dessert auction following at 7:45pm. Payment for your spaghetti supper tickets will be collected at the door and can be paid by cash, check or credit card. A reservation is not needed to attend the dessert auction.

Missions Breakfast

Our Missions Committee will be holding their monthly breakfast on Sunday, March 19th following church during Fellowship. A free will offering will be collected to offset costs associated with putting on the breakfast.

Seekonk Congregational Church In Person Sunday Services

We hope you will join us each Sunday at Seekonk Congregational Church UCC at 9:30 AM in the Sanctuary at 600 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk, MA for our weekly service. Please come if you feel comfortable, all are welcome, masks are optional.

We will also have a 2nd service on first Sunday of each month, the next two are Mar 5 at 11 AM. Communion will be served at both services and childcare will be available. Church school will continue at 9:30 AM

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

Be a Well Being Group

You are all welcome to attend our monthly Be A Well Being group which provides a supportive and non-judgmental forum for exploring stress management strategies. Medication, prayer, gentle movement, breath work and group discussion. The group meets monthly on the 2nd Thursday of each month from 6 to 7 PM in the Memorial Room or Sanctuary. The March meeting is March 9, 2023

Corned Beef & Cabbage Dinner

We are back, In Person and Take Out Available

It will be held on Saturday March 11th from 5 to 6:45 PM. Take out is available and reservations requested but walk-ins are welcome. This is a Traditional Irish Dinner, Adult $16, children $6, with homemade cookies and ice cream for dessert.

You could order your tickets online, please go to our Facebook page for the link Seekonk Congregational Church Facebook, call the church office at 508-336-9355 or email Donna.Euell@gmail.com.

Invite your friends, family, neighbors, coworkers to come and enjoy this great meal & friendship.

Earnest Workers March Hatters Tea

Join us on Sunday afternoon 3/19 at 2:00 in the Hall. The Earnest Workers will prepare a High Tea and will serve Tea, Scones, Sandwiches and Desserts.

Everyone is encouraged to wear a fun; pretty or fancy Hat as there will be prizes.

Tickets are $20, there is a limit of 75 tickets available. For tickets, please contact Evelyn Watkins at 401-680-2490 or call the office at 508-336-9355

A Chili Lenten Supper for all!

Come and learn about The Green Challenge

Please join us on Thursday March 23, 2023, at 6 PM for a special Conference-sponsored Event with Paul Dale in the hall. All are welcome.

The Green Congregation Challenge is: For all who care about the earth and will help us all take small but great steps toward protecting God’s Creation!! Like mustard seeds, every step taken moves all of us toward a healthier and more sustainable future for us and all the world’s children.

Call the church office to let us know you will attend – 508-336-9355

Upcoming services and activities:

• 03/11/23 Corned Beef & Cabbage Dinner

• 03/12/23 Worship Service 9:30 AM

• 03/19/23 Worship Service 9:30 AM

• 03/19/23 Earnest Workers March Hatter Tea 2 PM

• 03/26/23 Worship Service 9:30 AM

• 04/02/23 Palm Sunday 2 Services 9:30 & 11 AM

• 04/06/23 Maundy Thursday Last Supper 7 PM

• 04/07/23 Good Friday Service 7:30 PM

• 04/09/23 Easter Sunday 2 Services 9:30 & 11 AM

• 04/22/23 Yard Sale

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

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

stone

Looking Back... Spring?

By Phyllis Dupere

Taking a peek ahead on the calendar gave me the date of Monday, March 20, 2023 as the arrival of the Spring (or Vernal) Equinox in the Northern Hemisphere this year. Further research on the computer gave me the exact time that it was taking place. FYI: the Equinox begins at 5:24 pm EDT and ends on Wednesday, June 21, 2023 at 10:57 am EDT. Meteorological Spring is simply from March 1st to May 31st of any given year.

Now for the “in like a lion” and not necessarily “out like a lamb” March weather of yesteryears. Note that many spring days were exactly 100% perfect and some were above and beyond anyone’s expectations of the month and date. The following weather conditions must have been horrendous to say the least. Please note: Many of these tidbits of information were found in Rehoboth Through the Years (1993) available at Blanding Public Library.

In 1698, it was mentioned that there were over thirty-six inches of snow on the ground, as the results of having over thirty days of snow during the season. No time frame was given, yet it was stated to have been one of the coldest and snowiest winters in years.

Severe cold weather began in October 1740 and continues through April 1741. It was claimed that a freeze began in midDecember and lasted into March 1741, with the last heavy snow in April. Ice on the area rivers measured upwards of two feet thick.

March 1772 brought six snowstorms between March 5th and March 20th, with a final snowstorm ending during the first week of April.

In 1823, it was rain that caused some extreme weather conditions on March 5th. The rains, combined with the melting snow pack, created significant flooding along rivers, streams and ponds, in addition to causing major damage to buildings and property.

Sunday, March 14, 1888 brought in a heavy rain storm that soon converted into snow. However, that snow storm blossomed into something a bit more significant…It lasted three more days, finally stopping on Wednesday. Now referred to as the “Blizzard of ’88, it had stopped most modes of transportation between southeastern Massachusetts and New York. Residents, who were running low on provisions after the winter months for both their animals and themselves, had to carefully watch and not waste any foods or supplies.

Getting into more modern-day times (post World War II), a new meteorological record was set on March 20, 1948, when the twentieth storm of the season deposited yet another layer of snow. The total recorded snow amount in Rehoboth for the winter came in at seventy-three and three-tenths inches. Seven and three-tenths inches of snow was the total accumulation on March 16, 1956. Three days later, on March 19th, a blizzard deposited almost fifteen inches of snow in town…over 22 inches in in three days!

On Sunday, March 17, 1968, what would have been a St. Patrick’s Day Blizzard, was not in the picture. However, it was a memorable day and night and another day and night and another! Some parts of town have not yet forgotten the damages and inconveniences that occurred from this rain storm. A rainfall total in excess of seven inches was just too much for some of the bridges in town to handle. The Palmer River was running well as the spring melt/thaw had been going on for a while. With the additional rainfall, the river banks could not handle the river’s speed of flow nor the storm surges at high tides. Even low tide was to much for the weakening river banks. The majority of damage happened in the area of Providence Street. Two bridges were a total loss and had to be replaced…but that would take a long time. (For those who do not know Rehoboth roads too well, Providence Street, in my mind, is the Route 44 of South Rehoboth. Just like I envision North Rehoboth’s Tremont Street as being the Route 44 of North Rehoboth (even though I know part of it is Route 118!) The town is so large area-wise…they all go in an east-west direction.) Army engineers installed a temporary Bailey Bridge to help out. However, those who used that road every day knew that was not the solution. Repairs did take much longer than expected. A ride down that area these days can help one understand the concerns these residents had regarding their property and how this erosion affected their homes and other building on their property. Numerous roads had to be reconstructed due to the flooding and underground damages to the road beds.

This year, 2023, brings more wonders as to how much snow (or rain) will come in the month of March. The weather report given on Sunday, February 26, 2023 hints of rain or snow for the first week of March. By time you read this, you will know if the meteorologists were correct in their forecast. My prediction: Yes, we will have rain or snow depending on the temperature when the storm arrives. I do not think it will be a “significant” or “memorable” event…but I could be wrong.

Seekonk Lions Club’s Eleventh Annual Doug Allan Memorial Fishing Tournament

Save The Date!

Are we getting ready for the spring season? Ready to catch some trout? How about winning some great prizes and having fun? Well, scratch this date on your tackle box. It will be only a few more weeks before it is time to break out the fishing poles.

The Seekonk Lions Club’s Eleventh Annual Doug Allan Memorial Fishing Tournament will be on Patriots Day Monday, April 17, 2023 at the Old Grist Mill Pond RT 114A in Seekonk 9:00am until 11:00am. Open for all children through high school in the area.

“The Best”… and I mean only the best Fishing Derby held at the Grist Mill Pond. This derby thorough out the years has grown with many more kids and parents. They continue to be a part of a fun morning filled with anxiety, caffeine, hot chocolate and excitement!

Since 2018, the American Legion Post 311 have sponsored our banquet providing the hall for anglers to sit down and relax while enjoying Chick-fil -A sandwiches with cookies, chips and drinks.

We would like to see all our fellow anglers back this year and some new ones as well. Always the best time, with great fishing and great prizes as always!

Any questions or if you would like to help/donate or volunteer please email seekonkfishingtournament@yahoo.com.

Remember there is no charge. Just come with your fishing poles, that special bait you may have, and catch some fish!

Rehoboth Garden Club

The next meeting of the Rehoboth Garden Club will be held on Monday, March 6, 2023 at 9:30AM, in the Fellowship Hall of Rehoboth Congregational Church. Our guest speaker will by Sue Redden. Sue is a highly respected member of the Barrington Garden Club, the Hameho Garden Club, and the RI Federation of Gardens Clubs. Drawing upon her vast experience as a flower show designer, organizer and judge, Sue will give us insight into the creative process and participation in flower shows. The public is invited to attend.

Our Annual Meeting and luncheon is scheduled for April 3, 2022 at the Grist Mill at 11 AM. Officers for 2023-2024 will be installed.

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

Save The Date

Rehoboth Garden Club Annual Plant Sale

Saturday, May 6th 9 AM-1 PM Francis Farm Pavilion

Thursday, March 30, 2023

Pick-up Time 5:00 – 6:00 PM

American Legion, 84 Bay State Road, Rehoboth

$15 per meal

Includes: Individual Pot Pie, Vegetable, Mashed Potatoes, Bread Roll and Butter and Brownie

For Tickets Call: Lisa Halajko: 774-991-0052, Jeanne Noons: 508-942-4903 or 508-824-0534

Or any member

East Providence/Seekonk Rotary Club and Seekonk Lions Club Announce 31st Annual Charity Golf Tournament Monday, May 22, 2023

Ledgemont Country Club to host golf tournament with proceeds benefiting both organizations local charities

The East Providence/Seekonk Rotary Club and the Seekonk Lions Club announce that their 31st Annual Charity Golf Tournament will be on Monday, May 22, 2023 at the Ledgemont Country Club 131 Brown Avenue, Seekonk, and beginning at 1:00 p.m. (Shotgun Start). The golf event will benefit Rotary and Lions charities in the East Providence and Seekonk communities.

The fee for a individual golfer is $150 and $600 for a foursome with early registration received before May 5th and increases to $175 per golfer/$700 per foursome received after May 12th. The registration fee includes greens fees, golf cart, favors, lunch, cocktail reception and prizes. Prizes for the longest drive, closest to the pin, both low gross and net team scores and more. Business Tee-Sign Sponsorships, with your business name on display, are $125.

Proceeds for the golf tournament will benefit a number of local community organizations supported by the Rotary Club and Lions Club including area high school scholarships, food banks, youth sports, and many other charitable projects.

Contacts: EP Seekonk Rotary Club -Will Francis (314) 808-7433

www.epseekonkrotary.org

Seekonk Lions Club -Dana Heberlein (401) 741-9070

www.seekonklions.club

Hornbine School to Welcome Students

The historic Hornbine School is pleased to open its doors again. After being closed for three seasons we are happy to welcome students back to spend a day in the past.

Our season for VISITING CLASSROOMS will start mid-April to June 20th. Then in the fall we will be open after Labor Day until mid-October.

Letters have been sent out and phone calls made inviting classes to the school. The school is open to public, private and homeschooled classes. We have welcomed many third-grade classes over the years. We have now expanded to welcome fourth and fifth graders. So many students did not have the chance to come to Hornbine in the past few years.

The cost for a class to spend a day at the school is $150.00

We already have 4 Seekonk fifth grade classes and 6 third and fourth grade Swansea classes coming to the school.

There are many days open to have other CLASSES join us for a day.

For information contact Cathy Potter, School Director, at 508 252 3682.

Seekonk Legion Family looking for 2 High School Age Students to Sponsor to Girls State and Boys State

The Seekonk American Legion Family is sponsoring a girl to attend MA Girls State and a boy to attend MA Boys State this June. The 2 programs are very similar and take place at Stonehill College in Easton, MA. The dates are 6/17 – 6/23/23. The students will remain on campus for the entire time of the program.

The programs are a study of local and state government. Citizens will establish and operate their own city/town and state government. City and town officials are elected at the beginning of the week and they will work to keep their municipality running smoothly throughout the week. The citizens will also come together as counties to elect nominees to run for office within their political parties, and each nominee will run on the state level for constitutional offices (Governor, Lt. Gov., Secretary of State, Auditor, Treasurer, Attorney General). Throughout this process, the students will engage in running their own campaign for candidacy. The citizens will elect Senators and Representatives to the state legislature and discuss bills. There is also a District Court.

The criteria for attending for the student is:

• Will complete their junior year of high school the same year they attend

• Have an interest in government and/or current events

• Have strong leadership abilities

• High moral character

• Above average scholastic standing

Any student who is interested in attending, please send your contact information and a brief essay on why you would like to attend the program to auxiliary311@yahoo.com by March 25. You will contacted for an interview. Additional information on the programs can be found at massgirlsstate.org and maboysstate.org.

Events at the Seekonk American Legion Post 311 Meat Raffles Start April 1st

Meat Raffles start Saturday, April 1st and continue until May 20th. The raffles take place each Saturday at 2 pm. There are 3 tables of steaks, chicken, seafood, TV and other prizes. 50/50 raffle. Kitchen opens at 1 pm. The Post is located at 351 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA. Call 508-336-9822 for information.

Spring Psychic Fair – April 30th

We will be holding our Spring Psychic Fair on Sunday, 4/30/23 at the Seekonk American Legion located at 351 Fall River Ave, 2nd floor, Seekonk, MA. Admission is free. 15-minute readings are $20.00 each. There will also be several Vendors/Crafters (spaces still available). The hours are from 10 am to 3 pm. Proceeds to benefit the American Legion Auxiliary programs for our Veterans, community and children. For more information, please call 508-3369822 or send email to auxiliary311@yahoo.com.

Participating at this event are: Beverly Sylvia – Psychic and Spirit Medium, Annalise Hajer - Spiritual Medium, Debbie Matthews - Spiritual Psychic Medium, Astrid Meijer– Akashic Records Reader, Georgette Biscari – Certificated Spirit/Psychic Medium over 30 years, Leila Walsh – Tarot Cards, Amber French – Reiki Master Teacher, Theta Healer, Self-Love specialist, Angel Medium.

Music at the American Legion

• Friday Night Bands – 7:30 pm to 11 pm: After Dark – 3/10

• Ricky V: Wednesdays from 7 pm to closing

• Hall Rental: 200 person capacity. Contact Bob Reed for information at 508-336-9822

351 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA 02771; 508-336-9822

Sons of the American Legion Rehoboth Post 302 Statement of Conditions of Scholarships

1. The American Legion, Department of Massachusetts, may grant up to ten $1,000.00 and ten $500.00 scholarships to be used towards the expenses of education of the child/grandchild, whose parent, grandparent or legal guardian is a current member in good standing (or a deceased member in good standing at time of passing) in an American Legion Post within the Department of Massachusetts.

2. Applications shall be received no later than April 1, 2023. Mail to Scholarship Chairman: Louis E Brault, 104 Johnson Rd Apt 207, Chicopee MA 01022

3. The scholarship shall be for the next school year only and limited to incoming college freshmen. The scholarship committee will make its selections before June 15.

4. Scholarship payments shall be made directly to the recipient. Payments shall be made at the end of the first semester. Payment will be withheld if the student fails to remain in good standing. In event of termination during school year, payments must be returned to The American Legion, Department of Massachusetts.

5. (Ten) $1,000.00 scholarships to be awarded, known as:

• Frank R. Kelley Scholarship

• Robert (Sam) Murphy Scholarship

• H.P. Redden Scholarship

• Mayer/Murphy/Nee Scholarship

• Joseph H. Ellinwood (Nursing only)

• Grace Fuller Olson Scholarship

• Past Dept. Commanders Scholarship

• Daniel J. Doherty Scholarship PNC

• John P. “Jake” Comer Scholarship PNC

• Paul A Morin Scholarship PNC

6. (Ten) $500 Scholarships will be awarded with (One) $500.00 scholarship to be given to a student entering military service directly following high school graduation. (Submit documentation of activeduty entry date with application).

7. (One) $500 scholarship, known as the Leo Malloy Scholarship shall be awarded to a first-year apprentice plumber. Proof of apprenticeship must be included.

Jake Kramer, Adjutant Finance

Committee

508-252-9079

American Legion Post 302 Public

Spring Cha-Ching

American Legion Auxiliary Scratch

Ticket Fund Raiser

Ticket Donations:

1 for $1.00, 6 for $5.00, 15 for $10.00

Drawing held on April 7th, 2023

Tickets available at Rehoboth American Legion Post 302 5 $20.00, 10 $10.00 & 9 $5.00 Ticket Denominations

Total of $245.00

Thursday & Friday Specials

Serving time Thurs 4 PM till 7 PM

Fri till 4-8:30 PM

FISH & CHIPS

$10 reg 8 oz serving or $15 12 oz serving

Take out or Eat In

Seasoned or Non-Seasoned Cod with

Regular or Sweet Potatoes Fries

Plus a choice of Potato Salad, or Macaroni

Salad or Cole Slaw

Sea Scallops $15.00 with chips and a choice of Potato Salad, Macaroni Salad or Cole Slaw

***Bar Menu***

Fried Onion Rings $7.00 - Mozzarella Sticks

$7.00 - Shrimp $8.00

Regular or Sweet Potato Fries $6.00 - Small Ring Calamari $8.00

Other Events

Now serving Fish & Chips and other food on Fridays 4:00 – 8:30 PM

Tarot Card Tuesday – Every Tuesday 5:00 PM till when ever

MASS LOTTERY – PLAY “KENO”

“MegaMillion” “Power Ball” + others

If you’re interested in playing in a Card League of Hi-Lo Jacks

Monday Nights from April – June or…

Wednesday nights in January – April

All games start at 7:00 PM @ $7.00 per game

• The Cribbage League plays on Monday Nights January – March and then on Wednesday Nights from May – August – all games start at 7:00 PM

• March 10th, 2023 – Friday - 7:00-10:00 P.M. – Live Music performed by Notorious Jones Entertainment with Classic Rock

continued on next page...

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Music – Food – Fish & Chips – Food Specials of the Week –Drinks – Dancing – Electronic Dart Board & have a GREAT TIME! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063368911454

• March 11th, 2023 – Saturday - 5:00-7:00 P.M. – American Legions Annual CORNED BEEF & CABBAGE DINNER – $20.00 per plate – You don’t want to pass this up! Al’s the Chef! �� https:// www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063368911454

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

• March 17th, 2023 – Friday - 7:00-10:00 - BOMBSHELL BETTY PRODUCTIONS with Live Vocal Music – No Cover Charge!

Food – Fish & Chips – Drinks – Dancing & having a GREAT TIME - https://www.bombshellbettyproductions.com/ https://www. facebook.com/bombshellbettyproductions/

• March 18th, 2023 – Saturday - 7:00-10:00 P.M. - “Vinyl Frontier Band” from Attleboro Area with Live Music Entertainment playing Classical Rock Music – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Dancing & having a GREAT TIME! https://www.facebook.com/ Vinylfrontierband/

• March 24th, 2023 - Friday - 7:00-10:00 P.M., R & B Entertainment, Classic Rock – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back and enjoy �� https://www. facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/

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

• March 30th, 2023 – Thursday -4:30-6:00 P.M. Anawan Lions Monthly Annual Pot Pie Take Out Dinner $15.00 donation - https:// www.facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/

• March 31st, 2023 – Friday - 7:00-8:00 P.M., Sons of the American Legion’s Monthly Meat Raffle followed by Karaoke - 8:0011:00 P.M. – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Singing, Dancing & having a GREAT TIME! https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/

• March 31st, 2023 – Friday - 8:00-11:00

P.M. + – Live Karaoke performed by Jazzy Jill’s Karaoke Entertainment, Come on in and sing a song or two – No Cover Charge!

– Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME! �� https://www. facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/

• April 7th, 2023 - Friday - 6:30-10:00

P.M., Jim Powers Entertainment presents Old Time Rock “N” Roll, Classic Rock & County - No Cover Charge! – FoodCheck with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back and enjoy �� https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/

• April 9th, 2023 – Sunday -7:30-10:30

A.M. American Legion & Anawan Lions Monthly Breakfast, Second Sunday of every month $12.00 donation - All you can Eat! https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/

• April 14th, 2023 – Friday - 7:00-10:00 P.M.

– Live Music performed by Notorious Jones Entertainment with Classic Rock Music – Food Specials of the Week – Drinks –Dancing – Electronic Dart Board & have a GREAT TIME! https://www.facebook.com/ profile.php?id=100063368911454

• April 15th, 2022 - Saturday - 7:00-10:00

P.M., Ghost Cat Rodeo presents Classical Rock & County Music - No Cover Charge!

– Food Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back and enjoy https://www.facebook.com/ ghostcatrodeo/

• April 21th, 2023 - Friday - 7:00-10:00

P.M., Greg Hodde’s Blue Reign, Classic Rock - No Cover Charge! – Food

- Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back and enjoy https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/

Celeste Fournier 401-640-8897

Lisa Halajko 774-991-0052

Sousan Karwashan 508-294-1832

Mark Loiselle 508-431-8099

Shane Halajko 508-399-5272

Raquel Medeiros 774-991-3026

Sally Thayer 508-801-5506

Wendy Babbitt 508-415-0064

Andrea Massey 401-954-9514

Matt Tiso 508-320-5890

Massachusetts Home Improvement Contractors

Beyond following the common advice of seeking three estimates, checking contractor references and liability and workman’s compensation insurance coverages, there are other important details you should not overlook when on the quest for a reputable home improvement contractor for your next project. The Home Improvement Contractor Law, M.G.L. c. 142A, was enacted to protect consumers and regulate contractor practices. As with any professional doing work on your home, you should first check to see if the contractor you’re considering is properly licensed or registered in the Commonwealth. Among other things, the law requires the contractor’s HIC registration number to be published on any advertising, including any estimate or contract for services.

The Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (OCABR) webpage at Mass.gov has a quick way to search for the home improvement contractor (HIC) by business or last name, to determine if the contractor has been licensed and is allowed to offer home remodeling services valued over $500. If you are tackling a new build or larger project involving structural elements, a construction supervisor license (CSL) might be required,

Reporter Photo Submission Requirements

When submitting photos, please provide captions that coincide with photos. Photos will not run without a caption.

which can also be found in a database at Mass.gov. In looking up the respective license or individual, you will also be privy to other claims or prior complaints that have been made through the state agency against that contractor. There are some exceptions to HIC registration requirements for certain services, however the great majority of contractors will be subject to licensure. Many home improvement jobs will require both licenses. If you hire a contractor or subcontractor who is not registered, you will not be protected by the HIC law, however, you may have other legal remedies if something goes awry.

For any contract over $1,000, the HIC law requires a written contract fully delineating the contractor’s responsibilities, timeline with start and end date, scope of services and materials included in the total cost. However, a written contract is a good idea regardless of the value of the undertaking. You will want to be sure that any permit required will be the responsibility of the contractor to obtain, otherwise you may not be eligible for certain benefits under the law, and you as homeowner, will be personally responsible for all work on the project, including Code compliance or any injuries that may occur as a result. The HIC law also specifies that a home improvement contractor cannot request or collect more than 1/3 of the contract cost up front, excluding special order materials. Similarly, final payment on the project cannot be demanded until the contract is satisfactorily completed. Other contractual provisions required by the law include setting forth the full payment schedule, the homeowner’s 3-day cancellation rights, express warranty terms on workmanship or materials, if any.

If you are concerned that your contractor hasn’t completed the project up to state Code, you should seek the advice of the Town building inspector, or an engineer or architect as necessary. Should you hire a contractor and find yourself in a dispute that cannot be amicably resolved, both OCABR and the Division of Occupational Licensure have enforcement and complaint programs. The HIC law also established an arbitration program through OCABR for resolving disputes outside of litigation, as well as a Guaranty Fund program intended to compensate homeowners up to $10,000 for unpaid judgments against HIC-registered contractors. You may also have other legal claims against the contractor, including a claim pursuant to Massachusetts Consumer Protection statute, G.L. c. 93A for unfair and deceptive acts or practices, which may result in an award to you of triple damages and attorney’s fees, if successful.

If you find yourself in a contractor dispute regarding services not provided in a timely or workmanlike manner, or if you are a contractor who wishes to be sure your contract contains all terms required by the HIC law, please do not hesitate to call Corso Law, LLC at 774-901-2677.

News and Notes from Blanding Library

By Leslie Patterson

New Services at the Library

The Blanding has two new services at the library: Mango Language Learning App and a document scanner. Mango is an online language-learning tool that you can access from a computer, your phone, or other device. You can use Mango at the library, but you can practice your language wherever there is an Internet connection.

Mango is personalized and adapted to you, providing the tools and guidance you need to expand your language skills wherever and however you learn best. Get started by setting up an account at https://connect.mangolanguages.com/blanding-free/start . This service is free to Rehoboth library card holders.

The library has a new document scanner available at one of our computers in the Adult Fiction room. You’ll be able to scan your own documents and either print them, add them to an email account, or download them to a portable storage device like a thumb drive. Scanning is free, and printing is 25�� per page. There will be a one-hour time limit when others are waiting to use a computer.

Story Walk Returns

March comes in like a lion an goes out like a lamb. Our Story Walk will return to the library’s front garden area upon the arrival of Spring! This is a great way for families to share a story and enjoy the outdoors together.

Baby Toddler Storytime, Tuesdays at 10:30

Miss Joyce shares songs, finger play, stories and more. Children up to age 4 and their caregivers join us in the hall for a fun, interactive program. It’s a great way to meet other families and introduce little ones to the love of language and reading.

Story Hour, Thursdays at 10:30

This story and craft hour is for children ages 3 and older. Listen to several stories and make a craft. Great for socialization for both children and adults. Please register so we know how many supplies to provide.

LEGOS are Back!

On Sat. March 25 from 11 to 2, you bring your imagination and we will supply the LEGOS. For all ages.

New! Cornhole on March 29

Cornhole isn’t just for summer. Register and stop by at 5:30 on Wed. March 29 to enjoy indoor cornhole. Multiple boards will be set up so that everyone gets a chance to play and practice their new-found skills. This event will be led by Christian Rivera, a cornhole enthusiast and seasoned player who will teach the fundamentals as well as tips for game play. Suitable for those from 5 years and up (adults included). Beginners welcome!

History Discussion Group

Hank Coleman is continuing the history discussion group on the Civil War at 11 a.m. on Wednesdays at the library. Reconstruction is the next topic on the agenda. This group is open to all with an interest in history.

The Blanding Library, 124 Bay State Rd. in Rehoboth, is open from Monday through Thursday from 10 am to 8 pm and on Fridays and Saturdays from 10 to 4. Closed Sundays and holidays. www. blandinglibrary.net or call 508-252-4236.

Ada’s Cleaning Services

401-499-5018

Available

Bellydance: Women’s History Month Presentation

Wednesday, March 15 at 6 PM

Bellydance empowers women to accept and love themselves for who and what they are, regardless of age, size, shape, color, or sexual orientation. Come to the Seekonk Public Library on Wednesday, March 15 at 6 PM for Bellydance for Confidence & Strength to learn more about the history and different styles of this international dance form. Presenter Cheryl Sulyma-Masson of Kalilia Dance will bring sample costumes and get you to practice some moves. Don't miss this celebration for Women's History Month! Space is limited for this free program; pre-register in the online Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events.

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

Oscar Nominated Movies series

Thursdays, Mar 16, Mar 30, and Apr 13

Skip the wait to borrow Oscar nominated movies by joining us! Come and watch these new DVD releases for FREE at Seekonk Public Library:

Thursday, March 16 at 5:00 PM

Director Steven Spielberg presents this coming of age story of cinema-lover Sammy Fabelman and family, inspired by true events. Rated PG-13, Runtime 2 hours 31 minutes.

Thursday, March 30 at 5:30 PM

Starring Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson, follow the story of the disruptive ending of lifelong friends in the remote town of Inishmore. Rated R, Runtime 1 hour 49 minutes.

Thursday, April 13 at 5:00 PM

Cate Blanchett stars in this drama exploring the effects of power and fame on a female conductor composing her next symphony. Rated R, Runtime 2 hours 38 minutes.

Licensing prevents us from printing titles; call the library at 508-336-8230 ext. 56130 or email library@seekonkpl.org for the title and other details. Register in the calendar at seekonkpl.org/events for planning purposes and to receive any program updates.

Nonfiction Book Club:

Dopesick by Beth Macy

Tuesday, March 28th at 6:00 PM

Join us for a lively discussion of Dopesick: Dealers, Doctors, and the Drug Company that Addicted America by Beth Macy on Tuesday, March 28th at 6:00 PM at Seekonk Public Library. The title is available as an ebook and audiobook through Libby, or you may place a hold and pick up a print copy at the library. New members are always welcome!

Beginning with a single dealer who lands in a small Virginia town and sets about turning high school football stars into heroin overdose statistics, journalist Beth Macy endeavors to answer a grieving mother's question--why her only son died--and comes away with a harrowing story of greed and need. From the introduction of OxyContin in 1996, Macy parses how America embraced a medical culture where overtreatment with painkillers became the norm. The unemployed use painkillers both to numb the pain of joblessness and

pay their bills, while privileged teens trade pills in cul-de-sacs, and even high school standouts fall prey to prostitution, jail, and death. Through unsparing, yet deeply human portraits of the families and first responders struggling to ameliorate this epidemic, each facet of the crisis comes into focus.

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

Grow Mushrooms Indoors: Free Virtual Program

Wednesday, March 29 at 6 PM

Gourmet mushrooms can cost $30 per pound in the store, but you can grow your own indoors using limited space. Learn how to get started in the virtual program Grow Mushrooms Indoors on Wednesday, March 29 at 6 PM. Seekonk Public Library is hosting this program presented by accomplished mushroom scientist and farmer Isaiah Chavez with Blackstone Valley Veggie Gardens. This free program will be held in Zoom; register in the online Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events to receive the login information to attend.

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

Historical Sites in MA: National Parks Virtual Series

Wednesdays in March at 12 Noon

Discover the story of our state and nation in an online series from select Massachusetts historical sites. This lunchtime virtual series is brought to you by the Seekonk Public Library in partnership with Tewksbury Public Library and the National Parks Service. The programs in this lunchtime series are hosted online through Zoom. Go to the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org for registration information. These free, educational programs are open to all:

• March 1 - Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site Presents 'Olmsted's Life & Legacy'

• March 8 - Longfellow House-Washington's Headquarters National Historic Site Present 'Past & Present Here Unite'

• March 15 - Boston African American National Historic Site Presents 'Explore The Black Heritage Trail'

• March 22 - New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park Presents 'Stories From The Whaling Port'

• March 29 - John Fitzgerald Kennedy National Historic Site Presents 'From Beals St. To The White House' For information, visit www.seekonkpl.org, email library@ seekonkpl.org or call 508-336-8230.

Friends of the Seekonk Public Library

The Friends would like to thank all of you who came out to our February Book Sale to help support library programs. We still have some slots available for those interested in volunteering in the lobby or to help out on our big book sales.

If you would like to help the Friends support the library but aren't available to help with book sales, this might interest you. We're looking for people who enjoy posting on social media who would be interested in keeping members of the Friends as well as the public updated about ongoing and current activities of the Friends and library. You can contact us at friends@seekonkpl.org.

Scouting Around Town

Girl Scouts of Southeastern New England Celebrates Cookie Season with Seventh Annual Cookies & Cocktails Event!

On March 9, 2023, Girl Scouts of Southeastern New England is celebrating Girl Scout cookies with our delicious annual fundraising event, Cookies & Cocktails!

Once again, the festivities are shaping up to be an incredible evening celebrating 106 years of Girl Scouts selling cookies. Local chefs will be creating scrumptious desserts using everyone’s favorite treat—Girl Scout Cookies! We have partnered with some of your favorite restaurants: Hemenway’s, Boat House, Res American Bistro, Ellie’s, Safehouse, Barnaby’s Public House, and Crepe Corner to showcase our cookies “out of the box”.

Proceeds from Cookies & Cocktails will directly support our high-level programming focusing on mental health and well-being, camperships for youth in foster care, and making Girl Scouting accessible to all who want to participate. We want to ensure that everyone who wants to be a Girl Scout can be a Girl Scout. In today’s environment with increased inflation, we understand the impact this has on many families’ ability to take on additional expenses such as their children’s activities.

Attendees will enjoy savory hors-d’oeuvres, tasty Girl Scout Cookie creations, the opportunity to bid on silent and live auction items, and live music. Tickets to this event are $75 per person. The evening will be emceed by the one and only Mario Hilario WJAR—a treat in itself! Chef Frank Terranova will once again be joining us for a live recipe demonstration with Mario Hilario. (Please note this is a 21+ event.)

The event is scheduled for Thursday, March 9th from 5:30pm to 8:30pm at the Crowne Plaza (Plaza Ballroom) located at 801 Greenwich Ave, Warwick, RI.

Free ample parking is available for your convenience. Purchase tickets and learn more about the event at gssne.org/cookiesandcocktails!

We Are Girl Scouts

Girl Scouts bring their dreams to life and work together to build a better world. Through programs across Southeastern New England, Girl Scouts of all backgrounds and abilities can be unapologetically themselves as they discover their strengths and rise to meet new challenges—whether they want to climb to the top of a tree or the top of their class, lace up their boots for a hike or advocate for climate justice, or make their first best friends. Backed by trusted adult volunteers, mentors, and millions of alums, Girl Scouts lead the way as they find their voices and make changes that affect the issues most important to them. To join us, volunteer, reconnect, or donate, visit gssne.org, follow @gssne on Instagram, follow @GirlScoutsofSNE on Twitter, and like us on Facebook at www. facebook.com/GSSNE.

Pack 1 Rehoboth Celebrates Annual Blue and Gold Ceremony

The Cub Scouts of Pack 1 Rehoboth held their annual Blue and Gold ceremony at the Dighton Rehoboth High School on Wednesday February 15th. They had a busy night with about 130 people in attendance and started things off by presenting four special awards: Aiden Shaw received the Den Chief Service Award, Dane Medeiros and John Cameron V both received the God and Family Awards, and the final award was given by the Leaders of Pack 1 to John Cameron IV, the Volunteer of the Year Award. After eating supper, they presented the five oldest Cub Scouts, Benjamin Bourgoin, Dane Galloway, Kassin Lewis, Dane Medeiros, and Jordan Nguyenle with their Arrow of Light badges. In keeping with tradition this was their final Cub Scout rank and it marked the end of that journey. Those five boys then crossed over the Pack 1 bridge out of Cub Scouts and were met on the other side by members of the Boy Scouts in Troop 13. This ceremonial act also marks the beginning of their Boy Scout journey and was the final event of the evening.

Once again, Pack 1 Rehoboth congratulates all the award recipients, especially the Arrow of Light boys, and wishes them well in their future adventures with Troop 13!

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

Rehoboth Girl Scouts Troop 494

Dr. Gabriel Wassouf

Dr. Gabriel Wassouf Dr. Alicia Tavares

The five Arrow of Light Recipients, from left to right: Dane Galloway, Dane Medeiros, Kassin Lewis, Jordan Nguyenle, and Benjamin Bourgoin

Rehoboth Girl Scouts Troop 494 completed their HSI Certification in First Aid, CPR and AED with the American Safety Health Institute. Thank you Melinda Farmer for certifying the troop!

Rehoboth Girl Scouts Troop 494 used their cookie profits to attend a PPAC performance of the musical Annie!

Seekonk Public Schools Awarded Multiple Grants

Seekonk -- Superintendent Rich Drolet is pleased to announce that Seekonk Public Schools (SPS) has been awarded grants from the Massachusetts Computer Using Educators (MassCUE) and the Executive Office of Technology Services and Security (EOTSS).

“I want to thank the Executive Office of Technology Services and Security and the Massachusetts Computer Using Educators organization for these generous grants that will provide new opportunities to the students and staff members of Seekonk Public Schools,” said Superintendent Drolet. “I am thankful for our Director of Technology and Digital Learning Colleen Terrill and Mr. Weissman for their willingness and enthusiasm to support these programs for the overall betterment of our school community.”

MassCUE Classroom Grant

SPS was awarded $2,900 in funding from the MassCUE organization as part of the MassCUE Classroom Grant program.

SPS plans to use grant funds to purchase equipment and materials to support the integration of the new State Robotics Program at the Dr. Kevin M. Hurley Middle School.

Equipment and materials being purchased include VEX Robotics electronics and sensors to increase the capacity of robots students will build in class. Specifically, optical sensors will be purchased to provide sight for the robots, distance sensors to provide more accurate movements and GPS sensors for location-based programming.

The Robotics program will also utilize funding to purchase the Vexcode V5 programming system, a python based language. With the integration of this program, students will learn about the foundations of the programming language in order to create code to make the robots functional.

With this new equipment, teachers will have the opportunity to increase their knowledge through more advanced coding and provide students with the opportunity to design, build, program and test working robots to perform different tasks.

The MassCUE Classroom Grant intends to provide recipients with an opportunity to bring new innovative ideas into their classrooms.

Municipal Cybersecurity Awareness Grant

SPS was also awarded the Municipal Cybersecurity Awareness Grant from the Executive Office of Technology Services and Security (EOTSS) as part of the Municipal Cybersecurity Awareness Grant program. These grants are awarded to government agencies in Massachusetts to improve cybersecurity posture through end-user training, evaluation, and threat simulation.

Beginning in March, SPS will participate in the Municipal Cybersecurity Awareness Grant program’s Abbreviated Training Track Option 2, one of three training tracks offered by the program in 2023.

With the help of the grant, the school district will educate approximately 300 staff members on cyber threats and provide training and best practices for keeping the community’s data as secure as possible.

SPS Director of Technology and Digital Learning Colleen Terrill has been designated as the local coordinator, responsible for overseeing local participation in the program.

Participation in the program is monitored by issuing regular progress reports and communicating regularly with the designated local coordinator(s) on program action items.

Seekonk Public Schools Awarded Grant Funding to Benefit Biomedical Innovation Pathway

Seekonk -- Superintendent Rich Drolet is pleased to announce that Seekonk Public Schools (SPS) have received grant funding from the One8 Foundation for Project Lead The Way to benefit the school’s Biomedical Innovation Pathway.

“I would like to acknowledge and thank Seekonk High School Principal, Dr. Bill Whalen, for writing this grant application and continuing to promote innovative programming that will benefit all students,” said Superintendent Drolet.

The $57,868.07 grant will be distributed over three years to help support Seekonk High School’s Biomedical Science programming. Grant funds will be used to implement three courses in the school’s curriculum and also fund the purchase of equipment and durable supplies, as well as teacher training. The three newly implemented classes include Principles of Biomedical Science, Human Body Systems and Medical Interventions.

All three classes are available to any Seekonk High School students and no prerequisites are required. Classes must be taken in progression.

The school’s current Biomedical Pathway will be modified to include the new courses, which will replace the programs’ existing Biotechnology and Human Anatomy courses.

“On behalf of the entire district, I would like to sincerely thank the One8 Foundation for this generous grant,” said Superintendent Drolet. “This funding will allow us to expand our curriculum and offer students new opportunities for a successful future.”

This is the second round of funding Seekonk High School has received from the One8 Foundation. In 2020, Seekonk High School was awarded funding from the One8 Foundation for Project Lead The Way to benefit the school’s engineering program. Grant funds were used to implement three courses in the school’s curriculum including Engineering, Principles of Engineering, and AP Computer Science Principles. The grant also funded equipment, durable supplies and teacher training.

“I would like to thank Science Department Head, Dave Bonneau, and Associate Principal, Erica Thomas for their collaboration and continued efforts to offer these courses to students as part of the master schedule at Seekonk High School,” said Superintendent Drolet.

About Project Lead The Way

Project Lead The Way (PLTW) is a nonprofit organization that focuses on providing students PreK-12 across the United States with courses in computer science, engineering, and biomedical science. The main focus of PLTW is to provide an engaging classroom where students can develop and apply transportable skills by exploring real-world challenges. To learn more about Project Lead The Way, visit www.pltw.org.

About the One8 Foundation

The One8 education team identifies, supports, and scales highimpact applied learning programs that engage students actively in their learning and prepare them for success in a rapidly changing, data-rich world. One8 is committed to building a future where highquality applied learning opportunities, oriented around STEM and Twenty-First-century skills, that make learning relevant, stimulating, and rewarding, are a regular part of the student experience driving impact for all students. The One8 Foundation currently supports four applied learning programs in the Commonwealth: OpenSciEd, PBLWorks, Project Lead The Way, and ST Math. To learn more about the One8 Foundation, visit www.one8.org.

Congratulations to the following chorus students who will be representing Beckwith Middle School in the annual Junior SEMSBA Music Festival: Olivia Couto, Claire Kiselica, Madeleine Nystrom, and Anne Reed. These singers auditioned against several middle and high school students from Southeastern Massachusetts and were selected to participate in the SEMSBA festival that will be held in early May. During this two-day festival, students will have the opportunity to rehearse a varied repertoire of music under the direction of a special guest conductor which concludes with a performance that family and friends can enjoy. Congratulations!

Local Students Receive Honors at Saint Raphael Academy

Saint Raphael Academy congratulates students from Bristol County who have achieved honor roll status for the second quarter marking period in academic year 2022-23. They are:

Highest Honors

• Grade 9: Emma Chartier (Rehoboth)

• Grade 12: Cooper Skenyon (Seekonk)

First Honors

• Grade 10: Amanda de Abreu, Lucas Rosa (Seekonk)

• Grade 11: Shiwei Carlson (Seekonk)

Second Honors

• Grade 9: Ashley Carpio (Rehoboth)

• Grade 11: Travis Chartier (Rehoboth)

• Grade 12: Evan Cady (Rehoboth)

Saint Raphael Academy is a diocesan, Catholic, college preparatory school founded in the charism of Saint John Baptist de La Salle and rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The Academy provides a comprehensive and competitive college preparatory high school experience to about 500 young men and women from diverse backgrounds and prepares each student for a life dedicated to learning, leadership and service. Over 95 years, the Academy’s more than 8,000 graduates have gone on to careers in business, law, medicine, education, science and engineering. We are more than just a school community -- we are a family.

Annual Junior SEMSBA Music Festival Participants

Bay View Students Shine at Northeast Scholastic Art Competition

East Providence, RI – St. Mary Academy - Bay View is proud to announce that students have received awards in the prestigious Scholastic Art Award competition. Two Bay View students were honored with coveted Gold Key awards, four students earned Silver Keys, and three students received Honorable Mention.

The nation’s longest-running, most prestigious recognition program for creative teens, The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards were founded in 1923 and, for nearly a century, have inspired bold ideas in creative teens throughout the country.

Submissions are evaluated in numerous categories, including design, digital art, mixed media, painting, sculpture, and ceramics and glass. The entries are classified according to media, then sorted by grade level. Panels of regional jurors, made up

Laura DiGirolamo (grade 11, Rehoboth, MA)

of museum curators, college and university professors, and professional artists evaluate the work in a blind judging process with Gold Key works automatically advanced to the national level.

Students will be recognized at the Scholastic Awards Regional Key Celebration that will stream live on Wednesday, March 15 at 7:00 pm. Local winners’ art is pictured here.

Photo Credit: Mary Jane Andreozzi

Emelia Zabbo (grade 9, Rumford, RI)

Above: Lindsey Williams (grade 12, Riverside, RI)

Left: Tess Briden (grade 11, Rumford, RI)

SPOTLIGHT ON SPORTS

Basketball at Beckwith

Times change and that has definitely been the case for the girls’ basketball team this year. A well-deserved win the second game of the season propelled the team as last year’s team went without one. This proved to be the first of many and proved to be an awesome stepping stone for the 2022-2023 season. The team finished the season with 7 wins and 9 losses. The members of this year’s team are: Addison Bairos, Imelia Berwick, Courtney Botelho, Campbell Cordeiro, Bailey D’Alessio, Alyssa Daniels, Alexis Flood, Zoe Fortin, Leah Hyder, Lanie Kazanjian, Quinn Kotch, Reece Kotch, and Annie Reed. With no 8th grade team members, the future looks bright for our Raiders. The team was coached by Mrs. Carol Jerauld.

all trades as with his shooting, passing and defense. Sam Baker was a force on offense scoring all over the court. The future is very bright for the boys as they will have several players returning next season. Aiden Beagan and Jonathan Bennett started many games throughout the season and showed great promise for next season. Dominic Andreozzi and Miles Trexler improved throughout the season and are going to be important players in the future. Zack Sidok and Cole LeBlanc did an outstanding job as they showed a toughness and competitiveness that will make an impact. The team also had a young dynamic duo of sixth graders James Whittle and Eric Lin. Both of these players worked hard all season long and will be expected to make huge contributions over the next two seasons. The team would like to thank all of the students, staff and parents who supported them throughout the season. The team was coached by Mr. Robert Hamilton. Members of our team included Eric Lin, James Whittle, Zack Sidok, Cole Gifford, Eric Melo, Aiden Beagan, Cole LeBlanc, Sam Baker, Dario Conceicao, Miles Trexler, Domenic Andreozzi, Jonathan Bennett, and Patrick McCann. The boys were coached by Mr. Hamilton.

The Beckwith boys’ basketball team had a tremendous season defeating their rivals from Dighton twice and recording the first two ties in Beckwith basketball history, finishing the season with a record of 3 wins 11 losses and two ties. The team played some of the most exciting games that have ever taken place in the Beckwith gym. They fought hard and battled all the way to the end. The boys were led by the playmaking of Eric Melo and the shooting of Patrick McCann. Cole Gifford was amazing as he led the team in rebounding and all around hustle. Dario Conceicao was a jack of

Beckwith Girls’ Basketball

Beckwith Boys’ Basketball

Rehoboth Council on Aging

Francis Hall

27 Francis Farm Road, Rehoboth

Phone 508-252-3372

Fax 508-252-4716

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

Fridays 8:00am to Noon

JOIN OUR WALKING CLUB

Monday-Wednesday- Friday Start time 10:00

Lace up your sneakers and get ready for the Walk Massachusetts Challenge!

Come & Join Us! We have added NEW activities:

• Acrylic Painting Class, Drums Alive, Hi-Low Jack, Bocce, Cornhole Toss, Paper Crafting Class, Crafty Fun Classes, Watercolor Class

• Stop in and have a cup of coffee and a donut. Wednesday mornings @ 9:00

• We have added Paper Crafting Class and can always use extra supplies: scrapbooking, cricut supplies, die-cut, embossing folders, jewelry making supplies..

• We are in need of cotton, flannel, and fleece fabric for sewing projects.We are accepting yarn donations for hats & blankets. If you can donate, please call and we will set up a safe and secure drop off

Mondays

• Cribbage 9-11

• Walking Club 10:00 NEW start time

• 10:00 Bocce

• 10:00 Cornhole Toss

• Gert’s Café Noon~~ Limited seating Please call to reserve a seat 508-252-3372

Tuesdays

• 9:00 Zumba

• 10:00 -Noon Jewelry Making (NEW)

Gabbi will be the instructor

• 10:00 Bocce

• 10:00 Cornhole Toss

• 10:00 Ladies Sewing & Quilting

• 1:00 Bocce & Cornhole Toss

• 1:00 Hi-Lo Jack

• 1:00- 3:00 Crafty Fun Classes (NEW)

Taught by Daisy Gilmore.

Wednesdays

• Walking Club 10:00 NEW start time

• 9:00 Coffee & Donuts

• 10:00 Bocce

• 10:00 Cornhole Toss

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

• 12:30–1:30 Coffee & Dessert(New Time)

• 1:00-3:00 Acrylic Painting Class

Taught by Daisy Gilmore

• 9:00 Tai Chi

Thursday

• 10:00 Belly Dancing

• 10:00 Ladies Knitting, Crochet, & Tea

• 12:00 Drums Alive

• 1:00 Bocce

• 1:00 Cornhole Toss

• 1:00-3:00 Paper Crafting Class (NEW) incl Card Making, Stamping, (FREE)

Taught by Gabbi Silvia

• 1:00-3:00 Watercolor Class

Taught by Daisy Gilmore Friday

• Men’s Coffee @ 9:00

• Walking Club 10:00 NEW start time

• 10:00 Bocce

• 10:00 Cornhole Toss

SOCIAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT

Bradley Marshall Outreach/SHINE/ Housing Coordinator is available Mondays thru Wednesdays 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM and Thursdays 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM to assist you with Social Service needs from Fuel, Food, housing, Medical Insurance, and intervention help. Please call for an appointment at 508-252-3372.

If you are at the 200% Federal Poverty level (or $2,430 single family/person) you may qualify for other assistive programs, therefore give the office a call to review possible programs you may be able to receive. Remember you have paid into these federal/ state programs through out your working life so now’s the time to see if your taxes can help you during these inflation times.

Fuel applications to Citizens for Citizens are still being accepted for this year under the LIHEP heating year 2022-2023. We have the new application forms here, in the office, for you to apply, which can provide you benefits that would be from $900 and up for the year. You can apply for benefits no matter if you own, rent, or lease you home if you are below the 200% FPL or 60% of the estimated state income ($42,411 single person) you should apply. Those that do go on fuel assistance will be able to get other benefits such as discounts toward your electric bill

So, the benefits a quite a lot, especially help with the cost of fuel and bring down your electric bill by 30% and placing you in a restricted category so if you do fall behind on your electric bill, they cannot cut your power. So, call and make an appointment and we will take care of all the necessary reporting for you. Re-certification forms have been sent for those on the Fuel Assistance Program from pervious years. You should have received them by now. If you did not receive one call CFC at 508-679-0041 or call this office. When you receive your form call

this office to assist you with ensuring you get the Highest benefit possible.

Also, if you are having difficulty with fuel and you are approaching a ¼ tank please call the office and we will attempt to assist you in getting up to 100 gallons.

Questions or needs on Housing should also be directed to this office. We can assist you in the application process for State housing, the voucher program, and review for affordable housing that is open for low or rent based income rentals

Applications for Food (SNAP benefits) assistance can be process at any time, so please call the office on how we can help you with your nutrition needs and save costs on your food bill.

Special Notification for those Receiving SNAP Benefits

As of March 2,2023, the extra support provided by the COVID emergency relief funds will end, when officials roll back pandemic-era increases to SNAP benefits. The program, administered by the Department of Agriculture, provides monthly stipends to people with low incomes to spend on food. Before 2020, those payments averaged a little more than $200 and were hiked by a minimum of $95 during the pandemic. Officials estimate families will see a 30% to 40% decrease in SNAP payments as emergency allotments tied to the public health emergency is halted. If you are aged 60 or older or disabled it is possible that we can help retain the level of your benefits. Please call this office or the Department of Transitional Service (DTA) Senior Assistance line for DTA is (833-712-8027

Medicare Information Medicare Advantage plan (Plan C)

If you are on a Medicare Advantage plan (HMO or PPO) and you want to change or your doctor has moved; Call Bradley Marshall at the SHINE office to review other possible plans. This option is only open from January 1st to March 31st.

Inflation Reduction Act’s Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program Part I

Is all insulin covered at $35, or just certain ones?

Under a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan, if an insulin is a covered insulin product, the $35 cap for a month’s supply for each insulin product applies, as of January 1, 2023. A covered insulin product is one that is included on a Part D sponsor’s formulary. This includes any new insulin products that become available during the plan year. An insulin product might also be considered covered in other instances.

In addition, under Medicare Part B, if insulin is delivered through a traditional pump that is covered under the durable medical equipment benefit, the cost-sharing amount for a person with Medicare is capped at $35 for a month’s supply of insulin beginning July 1, 2023.

Does the $35 cap apply across all phases of prescription drug coverage (including the coverage gap)?

Yes, and the deductible doesn’t apply to these covered insulin products

If someone takes insulin through a traditional pump and is using that pump on January 1, 2023, will they will be required to pay the Medicare Part B deductible when they get insulin for the pump? Will they have any additional out-of-pocket costs for insulin and if so, will a Medigap supplemental plan cover those costs?

From January 1, 2023 through June 30, 2023, the Part B deductible will apply for insulin used through a traditional pump covered under the durable medical equipment benefit. However, beginning July 1, 2023, the Medicare Part B deductible does not apply for insulin used through a traditional pump that is covered under the durable medical equipment benefit. In addition, beginning July 1, 2023, cost sharing through Medicare Part B cannot be more than $35 for a month’s supply. If you have Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) that pays Medicare Part B coinsurance/copayments, that plan should cover the $35 (or less) cost for insulin beginning July 1, 2023.

Are other types of prescription drugs that I take to manage diabetes (e.g., Trulicity, Bydureon BCise, Byetta, Mounjaro, Ozempic, Symlin, Victoza) included in the monthly $35 cost-sharing cap?

Prescription drugs, including injectable drugs, that aren’t insulin products or combination products that combine an insulin product with another drug (e.g., a diabetes management drug), aren’t covered by the prescription drug law’s cost-sharing cap of $35 for a month’s supply of a covered insulin product.

For more information or help with the new Inflation Reduction Act and Medicare programs please contact Bradley Marshall at the Social Services office – SHINE 508-252-3372

Rehoboth Public Health Nurse

Geraldine Hamel, RN MSN

Available Monday through Thursday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM Call 508-2526502 ext. 3127 or 508-252-5947

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

Offering multiple medical services for our Rehoboth citizens:

• Home Visits, Vaccinations, Support groups: Bereavement, Caregiver assistance, Dementia support and more

• Wellness Clinic Wednesday

• Podiatry Clinic Last Thursdays of the month

• Blood Pressures & Glucose Screenings: Please contact the Public Health Nurse Geri Hamel 508-252-3127 for more information.

Meals on Wheels:

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

Rehoboth Council on Aging

A Municipal Department of the Town Mission: The Rehoboth Senior Center’s mission is to develop and provide programs, opportunities, and resources to enrich the social, emotional, physical, mental, and economic well-being of Rehoboth’s elder citizens.

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

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

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

• Can connect to their peers and community

• Can foster inter-generational relationships and shared activities

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

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

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

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

The Rehoboth Council on Aging shall:

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

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

Rehoboth Senior Citizens Club News

Our meeting held on February 22 brought many areas of discussion. We are planning several events to share: a 90+ Birthday Party, the club’s 50th Anniversary and of course our Fall Bazaar, amount other possibilities. More information will be forthcoming on each of these events.

The next meeting of the RSCC will be held on March 15th at Francis Farm Senior Center at noon. It will be a Potluck Lunch, so bring one of your favorite dishes to share with everyone (and maybe the recipe, too). Hope to see you there!

New members are always welcome!!!

Donna Howard, President

The Massachusetts Councils On Aging Walking Challenge

Hello my fellow Rehoboth residents. I have exciting news to share with our entire community.

Our Rehoboth Council On Aging (COA) has been invited to participate in the “Walk Massachusetts Challenge “. This is a wonderful opportunity, for our adult population (especially our Seniors) to show our COMMUNITY SPIRIT. Even though non-adults cannot “officially” walk in this statewide challenge, it is the PERFECT opportunity for parents and grandparents to show our younger generation the physical and social benefits of daily walking. What could be more FUN than daily WALKING and TALKING with your kids or grandchildren?!!

Briefly, this statewide Challenge starts on May 1st and goes all the way through October 31st. Sign-up and challenge information will be posted in The Rehoboth Reporter, on Rehoboth Talk and Rehoboth Chit-Chat in March, with individual registration during the month of April.

Take a minute to look at the “challenge invitation” flyer from the Massachusetts Councils On Aging.

Please share this information with your FAMILY, FRIENDS and NEIGHBORS.

Questions??? You can call our COA Director, Lynna Sherman @508-252-3372 or email COA volunteer Ralph at cntrygrden@ aol.com

Let’s show all of Massachusetts what an AWESOME community we are.

Seekonk Human Services

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

Women’s Lunch at Benjamin’s Restaurant

Everyone had a great time, plenty of delicious food! If you would like to join the women’s group we get together every 3rd Wednesday of the month at 11:30am at our local restaurants. Everything is Dutch Treat. Please call or text Beverly at 401-749-4841.

The ladies enjoyed good food and good company at their monthly luncheon!

Activities and Programs

Mondays

Chair Yoga 10am

Canasta 11:30am

Arts & Crafts 12:30pm

Strength & Cardio 1pm

Zoom BINGO 1:30pm

Tuesdays

Drums Alive 9am

Hi Lo Jack 1pm

Zoom Trivia 12:30pm

Wednesdays

Drums Alive 9:30am

Belly Dancing 11:00am

Mahjong 1pm

Zoom Coffee Chat 1:30pm

Thursdays

Chair Yoga 10am BINGO 1pm

Fridays

Dance Cardio 9:15am

Tai Chi 10:30am

*All activities are subject to pre-registration

Daylights Savings

Daylight Saving Time begins on Sunday, March 12, 2023 at 2:00 A.M. On Saturday night, clocks are set forward one hour (i.e., losing one hour) to “spring forward.” This is a perfect time to change the batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors as well!

Stephanie Gray Constituent Services Rep

Tues, March 14th 10:30am-12:00pm

Stephanie Gray will be holding office hours for you to bring your concerns and/or casework request relating to any federal agency, including Social Security, Medicare/Medicaid, Veteran’s Affairs, Housing, Health and Human Services, Department of Defense, Internal Revenue Service, the US Postal Service, Small Business Association, Passports, or Immigration.

St. Patrick’s Day Celebration

Wednesday, March 15, 2023

Luncheon @ 12pm

Steve Caddick & Avalon @ 1pm

We are proud to present for your entertainment, a tenor banjo master, Steve Caddick with Ron L’Herault on trombone and Bill Kass on tuba, performing songs from the golden days of Tin Pan Alley, to the contemporary songs of the past few decades. Steve leads this trio with contemporary arrangements. His style has developed over 6 decades of entertaining audiences. He was inducted into the “Banjo Hall of Fame” in 2013. Together, their passion is to bring their 4-string banjo, trombone and tuba to contemporary audiences. From their dizzying dexterity on songs that amaze the eyes and ears to warm ballads, they are a joy to see and listen to as they play the music of the Great American Songbook. They play songs from the 1910s to the 1980s. Lunch will be a corn beef, cabbage, potatoes, and carrots. Cost of the luncheon is $10 for residents and $12 for non-residents. Preregistration is required for this activity by calling 508-336-8772. Seekonk residents have first priority. Non-residents sign up starts 3/6.

Overview of Legal Services

Monday, March 27th 10am - 12pm

Appointment only. Brandon Walecka, Esq., LL.M. from Walecka Law will be providing office hours by appointment. The miniconsultations will center around elder law topics such as probate, questions regarding making a will (other power of attorney, health care proxy, etc.) , trusts (irrevocable and revocable), Medicaid/MassHealth rules and eligibility, tax planning, and special needs planning. These consults are focused on elder law and estate planning. To schedule your 15 minute consultation call the office at 508-336-8772. Can only assist MA residents.

TRIAD: R.U.O.K.

Tuesday, March 28th @ 11:00am

Lt. Kyle Laprade will be here regarding the “Are You Okay?” program. He will give you information about how this program works. An ice cream social will be provided for those who attend. Preregistration is required by calling 508-336-8772.

Fran Hart “The Me Decade”

Wed, March 29th @ 11:30am

American author Tom Wolfe coined the phrase “The Me Decade” to describe the changing values that took place during the 1970s. In this one-hour presentation, music is used as a “lens” into the major events and ponderings of the decade. Some of the issues that marked the 70s included inflation, the Vietnam War, women’s rights, racial injustice and unemployment. This multimedia presentation includes rare audio and video clips coupled with live music and even a few singalongs. The presenter is Fran Hart, founding member of the Beatles tribute band 4EverFab. A light lunch of pasta salad and chips will be served. The cost if $6 for residents and $8 for non residents. Preregistration is required for this activity by calling 508-336-8772.

Fuel Assistance

If you have never had fuel assistance and would like to apply or if you need help filing your application, please call Seekonk Human Services at 508-336-8772 to make an appointment with the Outreach Department. Fuel assistance applications accepted November 1, 2022 until April 30, 2023.

Income Guidelines: Maximum income for 1 person is $42,411, for 2 people is $55,461, for 3 people is $68,511, and for 4 people is $81,561

“Canasta”

Mondays @ 1:00pm

Are you interested in playing or learning to play Canasta? Please call our office at 508-336-8772 if you are interested in participating.

Arts & Crafts

Mondays in March at 12:30pm

Preregistration is required for this class. The cost for this class is $5 for Seekonk residents and $7 for Non-Seekonk residents. All classes have limited availability. **Art Work subject to change.

Projects for March 6th, March 13th, March 20th and March 27th, are to be determined. If you would like to know what the Arts & Crafts will be for this month please call 508-336-8772

Podiatry Clinic

Wed, March 8th 10:00am - 2:30pm

Dr. Lechan provides monthly Podiatry Clinics. An appointment is required. 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.

Continued

Blood Pressure & Glucose Clinic

Wed, March 15th 9:00am - 11:00am

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

Let’s Learn Together!

“Google Drive & Apps ”

Tuesday, March 28, 2023 @ 2:00pm

Your Gmail account can do so much more than email. With your Gmail login, you can use Google Drive to store files in the cloud and use Docs to create letters, resumes and more. Join Librarian Michelle Gario in this 90 minute session for an introduction to these popular Google apps. You must bring your Gmail login I.D. and password for this program. Bring your own tablet, phone, or laptop; please make sure your device is fully charged. Contact the Seekonk Human Services to preregister for this at: 508-336-8772.

Future Activities

Reverse Mortgages

Tuesday, April 11, 2023 at 1:00pm

This activity is all about Reverse Mortgages. A FREE seminar for homeowners 62 years and older. Topics discussed:

• What is a reverse mortgage?

• Who is eligible?

• How much can someone receive?

• What are some of the benefits?

• What are the tax free distribution options?

• How is the reverse mortgage paid?

East Coast Capital has a staff of dedicated professionals focused solely on reverse mortgages. They have the expertise to help you make an informed decision about which program is right for you. E-mail address is: mkennedy@eastcoastcap.com.

Elder Dental Program

Wednesday, April 12th at 12:00pm

A Dental Hygienist from HopeHealth Community VNA is coming to talk about how to best care for your teeth or dentures. She will provide a 20 minute presentation on oral health as well as provide an overview of adaptive aids to care for your teeth as well as a new toothbrush and / or denture brush, and listen to your particular concerns. Lunch will be served for all participants following the presentation.

Tommy Rull

Wednesday, April 19th at 1:00pm

Tommy Rull singer/entertainer will be performing his show, “A Musical Journey Through The Years.” Mr. Rull has been performing his act for the last several years. He has sung at private parties, corporate events, country clubs, restaurants and countless senior centers. He has entertained thousands of seniors and “Boomers” throughout Massachusetts. He takes his audience on a musical journey through time singing the songs of many great and wellknown entertainers...songs of Neil Diamond, Sinatra, Elvis, Roy Orbison, Paul Anka, Barry Manilow, Cole Porter, Harry Belafonte, Willy Nelson, Kenny Rogers, Hank Williams, Anne Murry and the list goes on and on. Many seniors at his performances sing along to familiar songs that bring back fond memories to them and a number get up and dance with each other, staff members, and volunteers. Coffee and pastry will be available. To sign up for this activity please call the office at 508-336-8772. *This program is funded by the Seekonk Cultural Council.

Computer Stations

Computer access is now available at Seekonk Human Services. If you’re without a computer at home but you need to access one, we may be able to help. Residents are welcome to use our laptops to surf the internet and check emails etc. For more information, or to check for availability, please call 508-336-8772.

Library Homebound Delivery

Residents of Seekonk who are homebound due to physical limitations or illnesses that are long term or temporary are able to enjoy library materials through our Homebound Delivery Service.

Seekonk Public Library’s Homebound Delivery Service is for residents who have no one in their household to go to the library for them. Adult Services staff will coordinate deliveries and can work with participants to choose materials that meet their needs and interests. Volunteers will deliver the materials to the participant’s door contact-free and return borrowed materials to the library. For more information, call Adult Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email library@ seekonkpl.org.

Sharps Disposal

Did you know that as of July 1, 2012 the Commonwealth banned the practice of disposal of needles, syringes and lancets (sharps) into your household trash? The Seekonk Board of Health has a Sharps Disposal program. This program is for Seekonk residents only. Those who use this program pay for the program. The fee is $9.00, which includes a one-gallon sharps container and the disposal of that container. Any questions please contact the Board of Health 508-336-2950.

Community Questions for our Police Liaison

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

Email List

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

Nutritional Meals To Go

Tuesday, Wednesdays & Thursdays

Seekonk Human Services will be working with Bristol Elder Services to provide nutritional meals for lunch on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays to go. Meals come completely cooked and prepackaged. All you need to do is heat it up! Meals need to be ordered the day before by 9:30am. Suggested donation of $2.25 per meal which will be collected at the time of pickup. Pick up will be between 11am - 12pm. March’s menu is available on our Facebook Page and by calling our office at 508-336-8772.

Veterans’ Corner Camp Lejeune Water Contamination

I am sure by now that everyone has seen more than enough television ads from law firms advocating for veterans that served at Camp Lejeune. Here is my take based on conversations with the Massachusetts Veterans Services Officers Association, National Service Officers and other VSOs.

These law firms are not providing a free service to veterans. There are significant costs to the veteran along the way and it is expected to be a long journey of litigation…up to ten years. In the end, if you do get part of the settlement (lawyers will get a big cut), you cannot have already been collecting from the V.A. for your serviceconnected disability. That would be considered double dipping.

So, if you qualify for a service-connected disability, whether Camp Lejeune related or not, you can start collecting now. This is a monthly TAX FREE stipend paid to veterans. In cases where the veteran passes from this disability or they are rated at 100% for a designated amount of time, a reduced benefit for the surviving spouse is awarded – called Death Indemnity Compensation.

So why not collect right away? Here are the current eligibility requirements for Camp Lejeune. Both of these must be true:

• You served at Camp Lejeune or MCAS New River for at least 30 cumulative days from August 1953 through December 1987, and

• You didn’t receive a dishonorable discharge when you separated from the military

And you must have a diagnosis of one or more of these presumptive conditions: Adult leukemia, Aplastic anemia and other myelodysplastic syndromes, Bladder cancer, Kidney cancer, Liver cancer, Multiple myeloma, Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, Parkinson’s disease.

Who’s covered? Veterans, Reservists, Guardsmen.

Any questions regarding Camp Lejeune or any other serviceconnected disability, please reach out to me.

James LaFlame Seekonk Veterans Services Officer Office

508-336-2940

Email: jlaflame@seekonk-ma.gov

The center is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 8:30am - 4:30pm, Wednesday 8:30am - 5:30pm and Friday 8:30am12:00pm. Come and enjoy the activities and companionship at your center.

* NOTE: *Seekonk Human Services is primarily an informational and referral agency. We try to help you directly or by introducing you to a network of federal, state, or local support services. Seekonk Human Services offers legal, financial, recreational, medical screenings, and other activities/services by volunteers or nominally paid practitioners. Participation in these services/activities is with the understanding that Seekonk Human Services, Town of Seekonk, or its employees do not assume any legal or other responsibility for advice of services rendered by such volunteers or nominal cost practitioners.

Spring Home & Garden

Plan Ahead For Your Perfect Deck

(BPT) - A big part of building your dream deck is the planning. In fact, a typical deck project can take six months (or more) from inspiration to installation. To help make your dream a reality, the following are tips for keeping your deck project on track, on trend and on budget.

Visualize the Possibilities

When it comes to your deck’s design, there are countless possibilities - from simple ground-level styles to more elaborate multi-level decks. Ultimately, a deck should be designed around how you plan to use it. In addition to function, consider your views, neighbors, the prevalence of sun or shade, as well as the entrances and exits from the home and into the yard. All these factors will have an impact on your deck’s size and configuration. Once you have a general design in mind, there are great tools available to help bring your visions to life. Trex offers an AR visualizer app that allows users to experiment with different decking shapes, board colors and railing combinations against the backdrop of your own house. There are also hundreds of downloadable deck plans and other resources available online to help guide you through your deck building journey.

Consider Codes and Permits

Consult your state, county or city offices regarding building code requirements and to learn what permits are necessary for building a deck in your area. Factor permitting into your project timeline so that progress is not stalled by waiting for inspections and approvals. If your neighborhood has a homeowner association (HOA), make sure you understand any rules regarding deck size, color, product type or design. And don’t forget to check with your local utilities to locate any underground cables, wires or pipes before construction begins. Your deck builder should be able to help with this, or you can call the North American One-Call Referral system at 888-258-0808 if you plan to DIY.

Be Mindful of Materials

When choosing materials for your deck, think long term. It’s important to choose quality materials that will withstand years of wear and tear from both weather and use. High-performance, wood-alternative com-

posite decking is resistant to fading, staining, scratching and mold. And, unlike wood, it never has to be sanded, stripped or stained, resulting in less maintenance and more time for outdoor enjoyment. High-performance Trex® composite decking is also sustainably made from 95% recycled and reclaimed materials, making it an ecoconscious choice that feels as good as it looks. Sample boards may be ordered online so you can see firsthand how different colors and collections work with your home’s architecture and style.

Budgeting and Beyond

When it comes to budgeting for a new deck, keep in mind that several factors will affect costs, including the size, shape and elevation of the deck, along with labor and the materials you choose. For the latter, you can use an online cost calculator to get a rough estimate for material costs based on the size, substructure and decking products being considered. As for labor, do your research and request multiple quotes to ensure you find the best contractor for your project and budget. Keep in mind that quality deck builders book projects well in advance and often have a waiting list by spring. With proper planning, it’s possible to make all your outdoor living dreams come true. For more information and inspiration, visit Trex.com/Academy.

Strong, Stylish Spring Home Upgrades

5 Renovation Projects Where Brick Takes Center Stage

(Family Features) Springtime is a perfect opportunity for homeowners to begin planning renovations to enhance the interior and exterior of their living space. Because of its strong performance capabilities, low maintenance and design flexibility, brick is a popular building material choice when looking to improve or refresh your home in time for warm-weather hosting season.

Often selected for its functional benefits, brick is available in a wide array of colors, textures and sizes that can match varying design styles, from modern to traditional and almost everything between. If you’re considering adding brick to your home’s aesthetic, consider these five projects to tackle this spring from the experts at Glen-Gery, one of the largest brick and stone manufacturers in North America.

Basement or Patio Bar

As homeowners spend more time at home, they often look to maximize livable space. One way to take advantage of unused living space is building a basement or patio bar, which provides an area for entertaining. Using an exposed brick wall can help designate the bar area and separate it from the rest of the basement, or lining a bar counter with brick can create a rustic contrast against the bar’s seating.

Fireplace

To change the look and feel of a room almost instantly, you can use brick to give a fireplace a facelift or make it a focal point of your home. Available in a variety of colors and textures, Glen-Gery’s diverse, premium portfolio of more than 600 brick and stone products can elevate your living room’s style in a big way and create a more inviting area to share with family and friends. An outdoor fireplace is another option for extending livable space in a cozy way that can be used throughout the year.

Accent Wall

Create a statement in or outside your home with a brick accent wall. Accent walls can help bring color, texture and beauty to homes by breaking up the monotony of monochromatic color or decor, creating visual interest and dimension. While brick in a running bond pattern is expected, you can spice up rooms with an unexpected bond pattern like a stacked bond for modern appeal or herringbone for a rustic look.

Kitchen Backsplash

One of the most overlooked areas of kitchen design is the backsplash. While its job is to protect your kitchen walls from the never-ending assault of kitchen splatters, there’s no reason it can’t look good, too. Brick backsplashes can accommodate most home designs and styles thanks to the versatility of shapes, colors, finishes and sizes available.

Black or white glazed brick works well with more modern kitchens while irregular brick containing an abundance of texture and a messy mortar application can complete rustic farmhouse kitchens. An option like Glen-Gery’s virtual design tool, Picture Perfect, can help you visualize projects in your home to see what fits your style and needs.

Brick Skirt

For added curb appeal, consider adding a brick skirt around the foundation of your home. Given its resilient, durable and energyefficient qualities, brick can help provide better insulation and protection while also adding visual appeal to the exterior of your home through texture, color and contrast. The skirting can also continue through to the front porch floor and steps, helping balance out the elevation of your home.

For more inspiration for your next home renovation project, visit glengery.com.

401-443-7078

manny@mgacleaners.com

English/Portuguese: 401-443-7078 • Espanol/Creolo: 401-442-8327

Chores to Tackle to Get Your Home Ready for Spring

(Family Features) After months spent largely indoors while harsh elements battered your home’s exterior, many homeowners are throwing open the windows and embracing spring’s arrival.

Every home requires ongoing maintenance to ensure it’s living up to its aesthetic and functional best. This checklist can help you create a comfortable home setting for enjoying the warmer months.

Check gutters. During the colder months, debris can accumulate in the gutters, which can be problematic when spring rains arrive. Clogged gutters prevent water from flowing efficiently away from the roof and house. When they’re backed up, they can cause water damage in a short amount of time. Faulty guttering can also cause slow leaks that lead to damage you may not discover until major repair work is needed. Properly functioning gutters are clear of debris, flow freely and are securely attached to the home.

Inspect the roof. Your roof takes a real beating in all kinds of weather conditions. Making it a common practice to carefully inspect the roof with the change of seasons can help you identify potential problems while they’re still in early stages, before a big storm hits and major damage occurs. Some roof issues can be addressed with simple repairs you can do yourself while others may require a professional. A roofing expert can help you determine whether any trouble areas can be patched or if a more complete restoration is in order.

Replace the dryer vent. Upgrading your dryer vent is an opportunity to conserve energy and prevent flammable lint build-up in your dryers. One option for updating the exhaust system is a paintable version of InoVate’s Prime DryerWallVent. Engineered for both vent replacement and new construction, the vent includes features such as a gravity-assist damper, integrated magnets and a drip edge to provide extra protection from the elements as well as pests. A large, clean opening and lightweight angled damper promote exceptional airflow efficiency.

Service air conditioning units. Your heating and cooling system works hard to keep your indoor climate comfortable when extreme temperatures make the outdoors unbearable. That’s why it’s important to have your systems serviced by a professional, and spring is a smart time to do so before they’re hard at work throughout the warmer months. Service can correct problems and ensure everything is operating efficiently, which can lead to money savings as well.

Repair window screens. Throughout the winter, your home’s window screens can accumulate a layer of dirt and grime that isn’t just unsightly; it blows indoors when you open the windows to welcome a fresh breeze. What’s more, if your screens have rips and tears, pesky bugs and other critters can make their way into your home more easily. Cleaning and repairing your screens can make your home more secure and help protect your indoor air quality.

Creatively Configure Interior Spaces with Sliding Bypass Doors

divider. Holding on-trend glass and metal doors up to 150 pounds each, the hardware lets you tuck away essentials while keeping them within sight and easy reach.

Another solution for closets in hallways and mudrooms is the 138F Sliding Bypass Door Hardware, which also provides versatility and an appealing appearance. Concealing clutter while adding clean lines, it supports most styles of doors weighing up to 200 pounds each.

(Family Features) Customizing interior spaces to suit your unique needs can be easy and economical with a solution like versatile sliding bypass doors. If you want to create a multi-functional living area, save space, allow more privacy or enhance architectural appeal – or all of these at once – sliding bypass doors can help you achieve your goals. From kitchens to laundry areas, installing bypass doors provides a fast, economical way to adapt floor plans to diverse lifestyles.

Kitchens with adjoining spaces are perfect spots for bypass doors. For instance, Johnson Hardware’s 111SD Sliding Bypass Door Hardware lets you reconfigure a kitchen and beverage area with a bold functional

Inventive down to the last detail, it has a precision-extruded, jump-proof aluminum box track featuring line-design fascia. This fascia hides scratches and fingerprints, plus, it holds paint for the look you want. Tricycle door hangers feature a quick disconnect clip system, making it a snap to mount and dismount door panels. These hangers are also readily adjustable for height in case of settling.

In addition, Johnson’s innovative softclose feature for smooth, quiet, fingertiptouch door operation is available for a variety of bypass hardware kits, as well as pocket door and wall mount door hardware kits. Soft-close technology slows down door speed gradually, preventing slamming and finger pinching for carefree use.

Richard G. Dias

Ideal for converting a closet into a neat, discrete laundry area, sliding bypass door hardware is right at home in second-floor laundry areas or residences where space is precious, such as condos and townhouses. Bypass doors save 14 square feet of floor space over swinging doors, which can be used for furniture, storage and decor.

Bypass hardware offers many fresh options for configuring interiors. Gliding on separate tracks, bypass doors overlap for wide entryways everyone can easily use and allow quick access to items. When closed, wooden doors offer extra privacy and quiet. Combined metal-and-glass doors create an open-air aesthetic.

For more design ideas to save space with creative sliding door hardware, visit johnsonhardware.com or call 574-293-5664.

Clever Storage Ideas for Small Spaces

(Family Features) No matter how cramped and cluttered your living space may be, you can almost always find a spot or two for extra storage. It’s often just a matter of getting creative and utilizing a few clever solutions.

Consider these simple ideas to create some extra space in oft-used rooms:

Kitchen

• Metal rods with hanging hooks can create storage space on your blank walls. Use them to hang coffee cups, cooking utensils, dish towels or pots and pans.

• Magnetic strips mounted on the wall or the inside of a cabinet door can be a simple way to hang knives and free up counter space normally taken up by a knife block.

• If your countertop is cluttered with small spice containers and oil bottles, elevate them with a decorative cake stand. Place small jars below and top with pretty decanters and additional spices.

• If you’re using prime cabinet space for items you only use once a year, such as holiday cake pans or a big serving bowl you pull out for parties, consider storing them in the attic or a closet instead.

Bathroom

• Instead of hanging just one towel bar on the back of the bathroom door, hang multiple to maximize your drying space.

• Most modern cabinetry has adjustable shelving. If you haven’t customized the heights of your shelving to accommodate different sized bottles and containers, give it a try.

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

• A three-tiered fruit basket might seem perfect for the kitchen, but it’s also a handy way to store bathroom essentials right beside the sink.

• Flour and sugar canisters can also be repurposed in the bathroom to keep makeup, toiletries, cleaning supplies and soaps contained. Make sure to buy bins that stack easily.

Bedroom

• Nix those nightstands and hang small shelves on either side of the bed. This cuts down on the clutter you can keep and makes cleaning underneath a breeze.

• Rolling bins that fit under the bed are perfect for storing linens, out-of-season clothing and children’s toys. They’re also the perfect way to slide building block projects out of sight without destroying your child’s latest masterpiece.

• Closets with a single hanging rod are one of the biggest space-wasters in the bedroom. Double their storage capacity by hanging a second rod or shelf below shorter jackets and shirts. Find more ideas to maximize your space at eLivingtoday.com.

Save the Date: Secret Garden Tour July 2023 Dates

Take a self-guided walking tour through Newport, RI’s historic Point section July 7-9. The tours run daily from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and tickets are limited with only 450 to be sold for each day. Tickets are now available and can be purchased in advance online at www.secretgardentours.org for a discounted rate of $25. Be sure to check the Facebook page www.facebook.com/SecretGardenTours for updates, events, beautiful garden photos and more.

In Spring 2014, Conde Nast Traveler Magazine named Newport, RI “one of the best walking cities in the U.S.” and specifically mentioned The Secret Garden Tour as one of the highlights.

Since 1984, the organizers and supporters of The Secret Garden Tour have been dedicated to enhancing art education and cultural programs in Aquidneck Island’s Public Schools, funding dozens of programs in music, theater and fine arts for local schoolchildren. To date, The Secret Garden Tour has given more than $1 million to Aquidneck Island students in public schools for cultural programs and the arts.

For additional information, be sure to visit the website: www.secretgardentours.org

Easy, Tasty Ways to Make the Most of Fish Fridays

(BPT) - If you’re going meatless on Fridays or you just want fun, convenient ways to add flavorful seafood to your meal plans, you’re in luck. You can create effortless, affordable dinners and snacks featuring these delicious SeaPak selections: Butterfly Shrimp and Shrimp Scampi. From tortilla shrimp bowls to one-pot creamy shrimp scampi, SeaPak is at the center of fast, delicious meals and appetizers that can be prepared in a traditional oven, toaster oven or air fryer. Here are three easy-to-prep, creative recipes that taste great and are a perfect choice throughout Lent and beyond.

Popcorn Shrimp

A fan favorite the whole family will love, this option is great for snacking, weekend get-togethers or weeknight meals. Ever try popcorn shrimp on a pizza? Combine them in this crispy flatbread pizza topped with popcorn shrimp, along with a fresh salad, for an ideal combo.

Popcorn Shrimp Flatbread Pizza

10 minutes prep time, 30 minutes cook time; 4-6 servings.

Ingredients

• 1 (18-ounce) package SeaPak Popcorn Shrimp

• 3 1/2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

• 1 pound fresh or thawed frozen pizza dough, at room temp

• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1/2 cup fresh ricotta cheese

• 5 ounces fresh mozzarella

• 1/2 cup pitted and chopped green olives

• 1 cup arugula

• 1 cup flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped

• Juice of 1/2 lemon

• Flaky sea salt

• Coarsely ground black pepper

Directions

Heat oven to 500F. Pour 3 tablespoons oil onto baking sheet and brush to coat bottom and sides. Stretch dough to evenly cover baking sheet. If dough resists, let rest a few minutes and try again.

Sprinkle Italian seasoning over dough. Dollop ricotta around dough. Tear fresh mozzarella into pieces and distribute evenly over dough.

Line second baking sheet with foil and spray with nonstick baking spray. Spread popcorn shrimp evenly on baking sheet. Bake flatbread pizza dough on bottom rack of oven 15 minutes. Remove pizza from oven and top with olives.

Reduce oven temperature to 450F. Return pizza to oven for 5 minutes. At the same time, bake shrimp 10-12 minutes. Top pizza with cooked shrimp and serve.

Butterfly Shrimp

America’s favorite for a reason, everyone loves the taste of juicy butterflied shrimp in a crispy coating. It’s perfect for dinner or a party, and even better dipped in queso. Enjoy Mexican flavors like fresh cilantro, avocado and queso fresco with this popular shrimp dish.

Mexican Tortilla Shrimp Bowls

15 minutes prep time, 18 minutes cook time; 4 servings.

Ingredients

• 1 package SeaPak Butterfly Shrimp (9 ounces)

• 3/4 teaspoon salt, divided

• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice

• 1 teaspoon lime zest

• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

• 2 tablespoons cilantro

• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup chicken broth

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

• 2 avocados, sliced

• 1 cup queso fresco

• Tortilla chips

Directions

Bring 2 cups water and 1/2 teaspoon salt to a boil in medium saucepan. Add rice and return to a boil. Cover, reduce heat and simmer 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork. Stir in lime zest, lime juice and cilantro.

While rice cooks, bake butterfly shrimp according to package directions.

Meanwhile, combine black beans, garlic, chicken broth, cumin and 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper in small saucepan. Simmer 10 minutes.

Divide rice evenly between 4 bowls. Top with shrimp, black beans, avocado and queso fresco. Serve with tortilla chips.

Shrimp Scampi

America’s #1 frozen shrimp scampi never disappoints! This whole tail-off shrimp scampi is expertly seasoned in delicious garlic butter sauce with a hint of red bell pepper and herbs for extra flavor. This one-pot dinner couldn’t be easier.

One-Pot Creamy Shrimp Scampi 5 minutes prep time, 25 minutes cook time; 4 servings.

Ingredients

• 1 (12-ounce) package SeaPak

Shrimp Scampi

• 1 1/4 cups half-and-half (can substitute milk)

• 1 1/4 cups chicken stock

• 6 cups fresh spinach

• 8 ounces linguine noodles

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 4 lemon wedges

Directions

In large, high-sided saute pan, add shrimp scampi and cook according to package directions. Remove shrimp to bowl and keep warm.

In same pan with scampi sauce, stir in half-and-half and stock. Bring to a low boil. Add pasta. Cook, stirring occasionally, until pasta is cooked al dente (8-10 minutes).

Stir in spinach and cook just until it begins to wilt. Stir reserved shrimp into the pan.

To serve, divide between 4 bowls and top with grated Parmesan. Serve with lemon wedges. Find these and other amazing recipes at seapak.com.

On July 3, 2022 Carolyn Wnuk and Thomas Whalen were married at Muckross Abbey in Killarney, Ireland. The couple, who first met at Dighton Rehoboth High School in 1999, reconnected five years ago. They were attended by Maid of Honor Dawn Edwards, Man of Honor Matthew Kleindienst and Best Men Brandon Carr and John Mederios. The ceremony was performed by close friend Caroline Paradis.

The wedding party was joined by over 60 guests who traveled to Ireland for the celebration. A reception followed at Colonel Colgan Pub at the Muckross Park Hotel.

Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Whalen

The newlyweds in their horse-drawn carriage.

Your dream DESTINATION WEDDING awaits on Tybee Island, GA

Susan Reid-Burnett

It is with great sorrow and a heavy heart that we announce the untimely passing of Susan Reid-Burnett, 62, of Rehoboth MA, on February 20, 2023, following a brief battle with leukemia.Susan was born on September 14, 1960, to William (“Billy”) and Nancy Reid of Scituate, MA. After graduating from Scituate High School in 1978, she went on to study at Bridgewater State, Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), and Suffolk University. Susan met Jay Burnett at a volleyball tournament in Boston, and the two were married in 1992. After a few years, the couple settled in Rehoboth, where they raised two sons, Braden and Ashton.

Susan always had an eye for home décor. Through the launch of her own firm, Susan Reid Interiors, she segued that gift into a long, successful career decorating homes, condos, offices, and boats from Nantucket to Naples, FL. Her talent and collaborative nature appealed to many; friends became clients, and clients became lifelong friends. Susan’s creativity spilled over into her gardens, floral arrangements, and tablescapes. While tailgating at kids’ athletic events, it wasn’t unusual to find the busy mompreneur manning a table adorned with white linens, fine china, candelabras, fresh flowers, as well as beautiful plates of homemade goodies.

Susan will be sorely missed by family members and friends, who universally describe her as loyal, sweet, compassionate, generous, and humble. She had a smile that could light up a room and a warm, quiet presence that made you feel you were the most important person in it. In her downtime, Susan enjoyed family beach vacations, Broadway shows, and being physically active, from playing volleyball and running to stand-up paddleboarding. She referred to her latest passion—rowing—as her “happy place.”

Susan leaves behind her beloved husband of 30 years, Jay, and cherished sons, Braden and Ashton; her loving parents, William and Nancy Reid; siblings Dana (Dennis) Bache of Miramar Beach, FL; William (Julie) Reid III of Scituate; and Maureen (Brock) Wagner of Naples, FL; and mother-in-law, Janet Burnett, and many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a special mass for Susan at Saint Mary of the Nativity Church, at 1 Kent Street in Scituate, on March 10 at 10 a.m. A celebration of life will follow that evening from 5 - 9pm in the Providence, RI area, at the Squantum Association Bakehouse, at 947 Veterans Memorial Pkwy, Riverside, RI (Presentation will start at approximately 5:30pm). To honor Susan’s vibrant spirit, wearing at least one piece of brightly colored clothing to the ceremony and/or celebration of life is encouraged. In lieu of flowers, please consider registering for the National Marrow Donor Program (bethematch.org), donating to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (lls.org), or simply committing an act of kindness—just as Susan did each and every day.

Juanita J. Anthony

Juanita J. Anthony, 42, of Rehoboth, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Tuesday, February 28, 2023.

Born in Providence, RI, she was the beloved daughter of Cynthia (Salgueiro) Jewett and late William D. Jewett. Juanita adored animals, loved cooking, gardening, and planting sunflowers. She had a heart of gold and a true sense of humor that made everyone laugh when she was around. Her children and her family were most important in her life. She was a loving mother, daughter, sister, niece, cousin, granddaughter, and best friend who will be dearly missed by all.

She leaves behind three daughters, Samantha Rae Anthony, Hailey N. Anthony, Hannah M. Anthony, one son, William S. Anthony all of Rumford, grandfather, Raymond A. Salgueiro, aunt, Cheryl A. Salgueiro, two cousins, Michelle M. Salgueiro-Tooley, Stephanie Rae Salgueiro, her best friend, Jennie P. Duquette, four brothers, Edward Damon, Michael Damon, Robert McNab, George Reis, and one sister, Pamela Reis. She was the granddaughter of the late, Mary Salgueiro and niece of the late, Stephen R. Salgueiro. Her funeral service will be held on Monday, March 6, 2023, at 10:00 A.M. in the PERRY-McSTAY FUNERAL HOME, 2555 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence. Burial to follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery. Calling hours will be Sunday, from 5-7 P.M. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to, www. liverfoundation.org.

Owners and Directors, Amy Silva Rigtrup, Type 3, Lawrence Quintal, Type 3 and

Susan Reid-Burnett

Juanita J. Anthony

This Candle Burns in Loving Memory of those who are forever present in our hearts

Christina Baker McKenrick

Christina Baker McKenrick, 65, of Seekonk, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on February 14, 2023 at the HopeHealth Hulitar Hospice Center in Providence, Rhode Island, after a noble, twelve-year battle with breast cancer. She was in the company of her family, hand-in-hand with her valentine and beloved husband of 44 years, Ross.

Born and raised in West Islip, NY, she was the daughter of the late Ellsworth L. Baker and Joan (Johnson) Baker.

Chris graduated from West Islip High School in 1975 and then entered Brown University (where

she met her husband, Ross). Graduating with an A.B. degree in American Civilization, she then worked for Wright Type. She then went on to work for the Brown University Admission Office as the computer systems coordinator and then for the Brown University Management Information Services Department. After taking several years to raise her children, she returned to the professional world teaching math and science at School One in Providence.

Chris and Ross were members of Newman Congregational Church, UCC in Rumford, RI for thirty years. Their children attended church school and participated in the youth groups there. Both Chris and Ross served on nearly all the boards and committees, notably Stewardship, Missions, Trustee, Deacon, Scholarship and more. In 2020, Chris and Ross transferred to their current church, Seekonk Congregational Church, UCC.

All who knew Chris know that she was defined by her sense of caring. At church, she was a very active member of the Missions Committee for years.. Her mission work at Newman led her to make multiple trips to Haiti with Daehler Hayes, Suzanne Swanson, and the RI UCC Haiti Task Force.

Her caring extended well beyond church. In addition to raising her children and foster son, she extended her heart and her home to countless extended family members and exchange students. Chris radiated her love and caring to everyone—and all reflected it right back at her.

Chris was also a leader in so many groups: Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts, Reading is Fundamental, Great Books and many school committees and advisory boards.

Chris’s favorite hobby was “playing in the dirt” (as her husband characterized it). This involved cultivating flowers, vegetables, shrubs, trees—anything and everything that grew in her gardens (and sometimes out of her gardens, much to the dismay of her husband). In short, her home and her yard and her life was full of plants that she loved and nurtured.

Chris brought many pets into her home from her youth onward. In addition to many

cats, there were three family dogs which must be mentioned: Princess (Labrador mix), Cinnamon (mid-sized terrier mix) and her beloved SuzyQ (Chihuahua-Pug mix).

Dance, primarily classical ballet, was an important part of Chris’s early life. She attended classical ballet studios in the West Islip area from a young age. This continued through her years at Brown University, where she also took modern and some jazz dance classes as well. Chris enjoyed recreational dancing with a passion and was often one of the first dancing at bars, concerts, weddings—wherever there was music.

Chris and Ross’s “Happy Place” is Briggs Beach in Little Compton, RI. Here they would spend many long days and evenings that would draw to a close with dinners, sunsets and campfires.

Christina is survived by her husband, Charles Ross McKenrick also of Seekonk MA, three children (Scott McKenrick of Paonia, CO, Charles Ross McKenrick, Jr of Paonia, CO, and Mida Lorenz of Corvallis, OR), one foster child (Tanasith Martineau of Providence, RI) and two grandchildren (Ruth Lorenz and George Lorenz of Corvallis, OR), and two brothers (Richard Baker of Bel Air, MD and Andrew Baker of North Scituate, RI). Christina was predeceased by her third brother (Arthur) who passed away in 1996.

A celebration of Christina’s life was held on Saturday, March 4th, 2023 at 11 a.m. at the Seekonk Congregational Church, 600 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk, MA 02771. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Chris’s memory can be made to a charity of your choice and/or one of Chris’s many, including:

• School One, Providence, RI

• Partners In Health, Boston, MA

• Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA

• Seekonk Congregational Church Memorial Fund, Seekonk, MA Arrangements are in the care of the Home of J.H. WILLIAMS & CO., 210 Taunton Avenue, East Providence, RI.

For online messages of condolence, kindly visit www.jhwilliamsfuneralhome.com

Christina Baker McKenrick

Lindsay Anne Withers

Some people are just born differently and after Lindsay came along they broke the mold. All who came to know her grew to love her. More than a week has passed since January 25th when our beloved Captain Lindsay Withers gained her wings. Family and friends have had a little time to grieve but the heartache remains deep and it’s real. However, we need to remember that grief is not what she would want from any of us. That beautiful face is smiling down on us from above and we all have to remember she’s in a better place now and the suffering remains only for those of us missing her. Individually, we may have lost a loving friend, sibling, child, partner, auntie or soul mate but we have all gained a guardian angel.

Smith Insurance Group

Beloved daughter of Christopher and Kimberly Withers, Lindsay blessed this world and all who knew her on her arrival June 6, 1986. Big sister to Heather, Taylor, Drew, David, Brenna and Raymond, she shared a passion for family that was unrivaled. She, along with her best friend Debbie, grew up in the Rehoboth-Seekonk area. Lindsay shared many loving times with her grandparents; William and Suzanne Withers, Donald and Rose Lamoureux, Rab and June Wetherell, her biological mother, Janice Williams of Georgia and god-parents Jim and Jane Carr.

Lindsay, like her father, had a desire to serve, so joining the fire service fit her ideally. Serving as a call firefighter for Rehoboth, Lindsay joined Rehoboth EMS, rapidly advancing through the ranks from EMT to paramedic in 2009, and continuing her career into private EMS to shift supervisor in 2014. She served many communities in Massachusetts, including Rehoboth, Dartmouth, Fall River and Worcester.

A woman of many talents, she loved to paint, sew, bake, and tend her flowers and vegetable gardens, sharing these passions with all who were part of her life.

On a beautiful May afternoon in 2013, Lindsay met Captain Shawn Tibbetts. Thus began a ten year adventure of love, laughter, growth and healing for both of them. Lindsay immediately fell in love with the offshore lifestyle, becoming an accomplished tuna fisherman and beloved guide. Like everything else she put her mind to, Lindsay was determined to be the best. She earned her USCG Master Captains license in 2018. The pair thoroughly enjoyed the outdoors together. From ice-out salmon fishing and bear camp in Maine, to fishing Florida’s nature coast, each season brought them new adventures. The two especially cherished their time on the water with Shawn’s father, Larry Tibbetts.

Lindsay and Shawn were honored guests at the weddings of her brothers, Drew to Danielle and Taylor to Lisa. One of her greatest loves was being an auntie to her nephews Scott, Odin and Lachlan, with a bonus auntie to Teagan.

Our cherished Lindsay will be buried at sea in a private ceremony officiated by Reverend Abby Lynn Haskell. A private beachfront service will be held that afternoon to celebrate her life.

“There’s holes in the floor of Heaven, And her tears are pouring down.

That’s how you know she’s watching, Wishing she could be here now. And sometimes if you’re lonely, Just remember she can see.

There’s holes in the floor of Heaven

And she’s watching over you and me.”

~Steve Wariner

Lindsay Anne Withers

To submit an obituary for print, please call the Reporter Office at 508-252-6575 for rates and information. Obituaries Start at $95.

Pauline Maria Smith

Pauline Maria Smith, 88, of Rehoboth, MA passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 19, 2023. Pauline was born in Westport, MA to Joseph and Maria Deschene. She was predeceased by her husband of 56 years, George Smith.

She is survived by her four children: Sharon Hayden of RI, Carol Alves of RI, Donna Nichols & her husband Sean of NH and David Smith & his wife Cindy of Rehoboth. She had 8 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister Bernadette Carignan of Fall River, her sisterin-law Theresa Pelletier, many nieces & nephews, and many dear and close friends.

Anyone wishing to remember Pauline in a special way is encouraged to consider making an online donation or by mail to either:

• Bristol Elder Services 1 Father DeValles Blvd., Unit 8 Fall River, MA 02723

• Gift & Bequest Fund

The Massachusetts Commission for The Blind 600 Washington Street Boston, MA 02111

Raymond J. Pacheco

Raymond J. Pacheco, of Rehoboth, MA. passed away on February 19, 2023 after a short illness. He was the husband of Rosemary L. (Donofrio) Campos- Pacheco.

He was born and raised in Fall River, MA. the son of the late John and Mary (Aguiar) Pacheco. After high school he enlisted in the United States Army where he served during the Vietnam War. He was the recipient of the Bronze Star for his service. Upon leaving the military, he became a pipefitter and then later joined the United States Post Office. During his free time he was an avid NASCAR fan attending races at several tracks, a loyal Boston Bruins fan, and enjoyed watching sports with his son Jonathan. He loved to spend time with his wife, bird watching and walking on the beaches of Fort Myers.

Besides his wife he leaves his son Jonathan and his wife Lisa (Lombardo) Pacheco, his stepson, William Campos,III, his sister Patricia (Pacheco) Alves, his sisters-in-law, Linda Maaia (William) and Valerie Daniels.In addition he leaves many nieces and nephews. He was the brother- in- law of the late Jose Alves.

His funeral was held on Friday, February 24, 2023 at 9:00 AM from the PERRY-McSTAY FUNERAL HOME, 2555 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM in Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Taunton Avenue, Seekonk. Burial with Military Honors was in Rehoboth Village Cemetery. Calling hours Thursday 4-8. In lieu of flowers contributions in his memory to the American Cancer Society - Cancer.org would be deeply appreciated.

Beverly E. Lincoln

Beverly E. Lincoln, 91, of Seekonk, passed away peacefully on February 10, 2023. She was the wife of the late Edward M. Lincoln. Born in East Providence, she was a daughter of the late Robert J. Halsall and Elizabeth (Doige) Halsall.

Mrs. Lincoln was a graduate of East Providence High School Class of 1948. She was a florist with Daisy Dig’ins in Barrington for many years.

Mrs. Lincoln was an active member of the Seekonk Free Methodist Church since 1966 where she taught Sunday School and served as treasurer. She was an associate member of the Seaconke Wampanoag Tribe. She enjoyed traveling, reading, crossword puzzles, and loved working in her flower garden.

She leaves her loving children: David Lincoln and his wife Cindy of East Providence, Douglas Lincoln and his wife Ronilyn of Warwick, Andrew Lincoln and his wife Lori of Berkley, MA, Dr. Rodger Lincoln and his wife Denise of Riverside, and Peter Lincoln of Taunton. She was the mother of the late Edward R. Lincoln and mother-in-law of Pamela Lincoln of Arizona. Cherished grandmother of Nicole Martel, Katie Besse, Melissa Ferreira, Andrew Lincoln, Rodger Lincoln, Scott Lincoln, Rachel Lincoln, Erika Lincoln, Robby Lincoln, and twelve great-grandchildren. She was the sister of Everett Halsall of Warwick, Roslyn Dias of New Hampshire, and the late Roberta Chappell, Phyllis Kirk, and Joyce Lake.

Her Funeral Service was held Tuesday, February 14, 2023 at 11:00 A.M. in the Free Methodist Church, 453 Taunton Avenue, Seekonk. Burial followed in Rumford Cemetery. Friends called on Monday from the hours of 4:00 to 7:00 P.M. in the Home of J.H. WILLIAMS & CO., 210 Taunton Avenue, East Providence, RI.

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

For online messages of condolence, kindly visit www.jhwilliamsfuneralhome.com

Death Notices Rehoboth

Raymond J. Pacheco, of Rehoboth, MA. passed away on February 19, 2023 after a short illness.

Seekonk

Gary S. Dean, 64, of Stoneham, ME, formerly of Seekonk, passed peacefully at home on February 7, 2023, after a long illness following a lifetime of working in heavy metals and toxic chemicals.

Gail B. Walker (Smith), 94, of Patriot Way, Seekonk, MA passed away with grace, dignity and faith on Saturday, February 11, 2023 at home surrounded by her loving family.

Christina Baker McKenrick, 65, of Seekonk, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on February 14, 2023 at the HopeHealth Hulitar Hospice Center in Providence, Rhode Island, after a noble, twelve-year battle with breast cancer.

Pauline Maria Smith

Beverly E. Lincoln

Raymond J. Pacheco

Representative

Steven Howitt

From the State House

Representative Steven Howitt Receives Committee Assignments for 2023-2024 Legislative Session

Re-appointed Ranking Minority Member on Transportation Committee

Boston – State Representative Steven Howitt (R-Seekonk) has been re-appointed by House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones,

Jr. (R-North Reading) to the position of Ranking Minority Member on the Joint Committee on Transportation for the 2023-2024 legislative session.

A member of the Transportation Committee since he first entered the House of Representatives in 2011, Representative Howitt has been the committee’s Ranking Minority Member since the 2019-2020 legislative session. He was also re-appointed to the Joint Committee on Consumer Protection & Professional Licensure, a committee he has also served on since 2011 and which oversees all matters related to consumer credit and consumer protection, as well as the issuance of licenses for the sale of alcoholic beverages.

In addition to returning to his two longtime committees, Representative Howitt has also been named to three other committees. He will now serve as the Assistant Ranking Minority Member of the House Ethics Committee, a member of the Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities & Energy, and a member of the House Steering, Policy & Scheduling Committee, which helps to identify and prioritize pending bills for consideration by the House of Representatives.

Steven has done a tremendous job representing his constituents and the residents of the Commonwealth, particularly on con-

sumer protection issues and transportation-related matters,” said Representative Jones. “He led a successful fight to crack down on catalytic converter thefts in Massachusetts, and will continue to play an important role in the Transportation Committee’s ongoing efforts to create a safer and more reliable MBTA for commuters.”

Representative Howitt stated, “I would like to thank Leader Jones for my committee assignments for the 193rd Massachusetts General Court. I appreciate his support and confidence in me to represent our caucus on these important committees.”

A graduate of Boston University’s School of Management, Representative Howitt is a business owner and third-generation Seekonk resident with over 30 years of public service to the community and to the Commonwealth. Prior to entering the Legislature, he was elected and served two terms on the Seekonk Planning Board and one term on the Seekonk Board of Selectmen. He previously served as an appointed member of both the Seekonk Cable and Recycling Committees and continues to do volunteer work with numerous civic organizations.

Representative Howitt has been happily married to Pam Tesler Howitt, a philanthropy executive, since 1990. He represents the 4th Bristol District, which includes the towns of Rehoboth and Seekonk, as well as Precincts 1 and 2 in Norton and Precincts 4 and 5 in Swansea.

HELP WANTED

LOOKING FOR A REWARDING JOB?? Advocare Senior Living is a local small business looking for caregivers to join our team! We can accommodate your schedule and have all shifts available including morning, afternoon, evening and overnights! For more information check out our website at www.advocareseniorliving. com or call our office at 401-434-6727.

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

Come join our team! Community Autism Resources is entering into an exciting season of growth. We offer flexible schedules, competitive pay, and a fun team atmosphere. We’re looking to fill the following positions: Autism Waiver Program Brokers, Family Support and Resources, Individual In Home Supports, Assistive Technology. If you are interested in learning more, please send your resume to: jobs@community-autism-resources.com

ESTATE SALE

Seekonk, MA. Estate sale. Sat. & Sun. March 11-12th 10am2pm. 388 Brown Ave. Glassware. Vintage jewelry. Vintage women's clothing. Cash or Venmo. Everything must go! Rain or shine!

FOR SALE

Podengo medium pups. Born 12/12/22 now 11 weeks old. Tan and white. Breed has no inherited medical problems. great family dogs. Male $500.00 Female $600.00 508-222-5909 Cathy

13 ft Great Canadian canoe, with paddles and two life jackets, blue, asking $350 or best offer. Call Bill at 508-252-9000.

HOME & GARDEN

Plants for sale: Perennials, annuals, Euonymus bushes, Angel Trumpets, Coleus, succulents, fig trees & angel’s trumpet, free small plant with visit, prices from $2-$20. Call 401-433-2922.

WANTED

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.

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, Fair & Friendly. RI Precious Metal License #201102. House Calls Available by Appointment.

Have any old records or stereo equipment around? WE BUY RECORDS LPs & 45s Rock, Jazz, Soul, and more. Cash paid! Also looking for older stereo equipment. Call or text today! 347-385-2551

HALL RENTAL

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

VACATION RENTAL

CUSTOM LOG CABIN HOME: Pearl Lake Rd in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Minutes from attractions: Sugar Hill, Franconia Pkwy, Santa’s Village, Whale’s Tail Water Park, and Cog Railway; sleeps 6, fireplace, swimming, hiking, fishing, boating, kayaks or just R&R. Booking now for Spring and Summer getaways: Weekly or weekends. Call Joe at 401-439-8089.

GENERAL SERVICES

I am a Personal Care Assistant & Housekeeper willing to help you! Will perform many duties including meal prep, medication reminders, shower assistance, shopping/errands, laundry, light cleaning. Call Terri for information and rates. 774-284-7600.

Maintenance/Repair/Handyman. GSS Property Solutions LLC, Registered, Bonded & Fully Insured. gsspropertysolutions072@ gmail.com, Call: 401-688-9749

Pet CPR class June 25th, 2023. Sign up today @ www.pawsnclaws911.com.

Dog Training needs? We're here to help- Unique Souls Canine Training - Rehoboth Ma. Certified Positive Dog Trainers. We offer Private Lessons, group classes for all sizes and breeds. Call us today to book your training needs-508-406-1546. https://www. uniquesoulscaninetraining.com/

Personal Care Attendant Experienced for developmentally delayed woman. 3pm to 6pm three to six evenings. Rotating Saturday and Sunday 12pm to 4pm Paid by agency Barrington 401 289-0127

Bicycle Sales & Service: Your Bike Shops Spring Tune-ups on all brands, Riverside 401-433-4491 and Warren 401-245-9755. Call Art or Joe for *NEW* hours and service.

Housecleaning: Is your home in need of a really good cleaning? Whether you need a 1 time cleaning, or regular cleanings. Years of experience! (We include fridge and oven w/ our cleanings) Call Gil for details 508-840-6611.

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