January 2021 Rehoboth Reporter

The Rehoboth

Reporter

JANUARY 2021 Volume 33, no. 1

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

Healthy Living pg 36

Rehoboth Congregational Church Celebrates 300 Years see pg.25

Rehoboth Congregational Church-Photo by Earle S Dias Photography

2 The Reporter January 2021

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4 The Reporter January 2021

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Rehoboth: The Year in Review

By Joe Siegel 2020 was a tough year for Rehoboth, as the novel coronavirus impacted personal lives and public institutions. Last March, the Board of Selectmen ordered all town buildings closed after cases of Covid-19 began to spike in Massachusetts. Various town boards and committees were able to meet remotely due to a change in the state’s open meeting law.

Selectmen meetings were closed to the public due to the virus. The pandemic also resulted in the town election being postponed from April 7 to June 30. Incumbent selectmen Dave Perry and Jim Muri were re-elected with no opposition. Aaron Morse and Richard Barrett were elected to serve on the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Committee.

Meanwhile, the annual town meeting, usually held in June, was postponed to December 1. Residents who attended the meeting were required to wear masks due to fears of spreading Covid-19. All of the articles were related to town finances, which included setting the salaries of town officials such as the Board of Selectmen, the Town Clerk, the Town Treasurer, and the Tree Warden.

The schools were closed for the last few months of the 2019-2020 calendar year. The 2020-2021 school year began on September 18 with remote learning. The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District made the transition to hybrid learning in October. Cases of Covid-19 were reported in the district’s schools, which prompted some parents to opt for remote learning for their children. “We have at least one positive Covid-19 case in each school,” Superintendent Anthony Azar said at a November school committee meeting. “There are several more in other schools that we’ve reported out. What we’re monitoring now is how many parents are choosing full remote over hybrid.”

For the second consecutive year, the state’s Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has assumed control of the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District.

In a December 3 letter to Azar, school committee chairman Thomas O’Connor, and various town officials, DESE’s associate commissioner John Sullivan said if a budget was not accepted before December 1, DESE “shall establish a budget for the year and assume fiscal oversight of the district.”

Disaster struck on September 12 when the town’s senior center became an inferno.

The fast-moving fire started in the rear of the building where the kitchen and boiler were located and spread within 10 minutes to the front of the structure. Firefighters were forced to fight the blaze from the outside after the ceiling collapsed. The building was unoccupied at the time and no firefighter injuries were reported. The $1.4 million facility at 55 Bay State Road, which opened in 2003, was deemed a total loss. The cause of the fire remains undetermined. Local businesses provided assistance to the Council on Aging staff, who had offices in the senior center. Tim Johnson, the owner of Propane Plus, agreed to lease space in a plaza he owns to the town for a two year period. The COA staff has been performing administrative work in the building on Taunton Avenue. Meals on Wheels are now being distributed from that location. The Board of Selectmen have announced their plans to build a new senior center.Chairman Skip Vadnais explained the process would take up to two to three years. “We’re going to move forward and we’re going to try to give (residents) a better senior center than they had before,” said selectman Michael Costello, who is chairing an advisory board which will oversee the project.

The town also mourned the loss of Michael O’Hern, a former member of the Board of Selectmen and a longtime building inspector. O’Hern, 82, passed away in September.

O’Hern served as a selectman for two terms in the 1980s. He was first appointed as Building Inspector in 1980. In 2002, he served as the Building Inspector and Chief Zoning Officer.

He also served on the Town Building Study Committee, the Conservation Commission, the Communications Committee, the Local Emergency Planning Board, the Bylaw Study Committee, the Veterans Memorial Relocation Committee, the Police Facility Building Study Committee, and the Police Chief Search Committee. Last July, O’Hern was sworn in as a Constable for the sixth consecutive year. He had served in that role a total of 30 different times over four decades. “Even if I didn’t always agree with (O’Hern), I always found his opinions interesting and well thought out,” said Muri. “He was a good man.”

January 2021 The Reporter

Seekonk: The Year in Review

By Joe Siegel 2020 featured a change in leadership for the town’s police and fire departments after a lengthy search period. After a background investigation which lasted for several months, Dean Isabella was appointed to serve as the new Police Chief. The Board of Selectmen voted 4-1 at their November 18 meeting. Chairman Justin Sullivan, Chris Zorra, David Andrade, and Adam Petronio were in favor, with David Viera opposed. Isabella had worked for the Department of Children, Youth, and Families in Rhode Island as assistant director of Child Services, overseeing the Child Protective Services unit that investigates child abuse. Isabella, who lives in Narragansett, had been a member of the Providence Police Department since 1987 and retired as a captain in 2019. Last January, members of the police department lobbied selectmen on behalf of Acting Chief David Enos. Enos was appointed to serve as Chief on an interim basis following the retirement of Frank John in July 2019. John had been placed on administrative leave in March 2019 after being in the position for six months. At the time, Enos had been appointed to serve as Deputy Chief. Petronio explained that Enos supported Isabella’s appointment because he “didn’t have the experience (Isabella) has.”

“There was nothing indicating (Isabella) wouldn’t be a good fit,” Petronio added. ‘I think that he’s going to do a good job and we’ll be watching him carefully this year.”

David Rave was sworn in as the town’s new Fire Chief in October. Rave had been appointed to the position at the August 5 Board of Selectmen meeting. Rave was a Battalion Chief from East Providence with 35 years experience. There were 29 applicants for the position. Former Fire Chief Michael Healy retired in May 2019 but had remained in the position during the search process for a replacement. Healy served in the department for 35 years. A proclamation read by Selectmen Chairman Justin Sullivan said Healy “had the vision to further develop the town of Seekonk Fire Department. During his tenure he replaced frontline apparatus, increased staffing, oversaw the building and completion of the Banna Fire Station, and was instrumental in establishing the department’s first Deputy Fire Chief.” “During the Covid-19 pandemic, Chief Healy’s unwavering commitment remained with the health and safety of the town’s residents,” Sullivan added.

Coronavirus hit Seekonk especially hard, which resulted in its being given the designation of red, which is reserved for cities and towns with the highest average of new infections.

There have been 41 positive cases of Covid-19 reported in Seekonk Schools. Half of those were at Seekonk High School, Superintendent Rich Drolet said earlier this month. Drolet said the school district would continue to remain operating under a hybrid model – two days of in-person instruction and two days of remote learning. One staff member and five students at Aitken Elementary School had tested positive for Covid-19. Two staff members and four students tested positive for Covid-19 at Martin Elementary School. One staff member and seven students tested positive for Covid-19 at Hurley Middle School.

The town mourned the death of former selectman Dave Parker, who died August 11.

Parker, 75, served three terms on the Board of Selectmen. He also served as Town Moderator for 12 years and was one of the founders of the Save A Pet Society. “Dave Parker was dedicated to making Seekonk a better place to live and raise a family,” said former selectwoman Michelle Hines. “It was nice to have a Board member who was able to tell us how things were started and the reason behind decisions. You could depend on Dave when he told you something and he would help anyone.”

On a happier note, the long-awaited animal shelter was completed. The $1.7 million building is approximately 3,000 square feet and includes two offices, a cat area, indoor and outdoor kennels for dogs, a treatment room, quarantine room, adoption rooms where people can meet the animals, a break room, and a car port for the shelter van.

A new children’s playground was also constructed next to town hall.

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Inside This Issue Business Directory......................68 Church News..............................25 Classifieds...............................67 Club Announcements.................51 Dave Says..................................46 Events.......................................25 Food & Dining.............................60 Healthy Living............................36 Library......................................

Blanding.......................41

Seekonk......................42

Obituaries................................62 People.................................29 Rehoboth COA...........................5 0Rehoboth Ramblings.................6 Rehoboth Town News................8 School News...............................52 Seekonk Human Services..........48 Seekonk Town News...................17 Scouts....................................26

The new playground next to the town hall

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6 The Reporter January 2021

Rehoboth Ramblings

by Leslie Patterson

Looking Back, Looking Forward

sick people, including those with non-Covid emergencies such as heart attacks, may not be able to get the care they need. Let us also praise the public health officials, doctors, and scientists who have kept us informed, often under difficult conditions.

I don’t know anyone who likes wearing a mask (I sure don’t) but they do it because until the vaccines become more available, this is the best way to prevent the respiratory transmission of a highly contagious disease. Now that we have vaccines to look forward to, the coming year does look brighter in the long run. Wearing masks should never have become a political issue. There is nothing partisan about this nasty virus. It can infect anyone. Also, since new vaccines were developed faster than any other in history, why couldn’t the N95 masks be produced in greater number? Surely that would be an easier challenge.

Those of us who are retired and used to a quiet life may have an easier time of it than bubbly extroverts who always want to be out seeing people and doing things. It’s also harder for those who live alone. Very few people want to be actual hermits. The feeling of being hemmed in all the time and prevented from doing sociable things can cause a sort of psychological claustrophobia. We will be feeling the after effects of 2020 for a while.

The highlight of the past year for me has been going for long weekend walks, either on the beach or a nature trail nearby, and getting take-out from one of several local restaurants, bless them in these difficult times. I’ve never been an enthusiastic cook and this past year has tried both my patience and culinary skills, though sometimes I’ve surprised myself.

I’ve adapted to Zoom, though an hour is about the limit of my patience for faces in boxes popping up and down. I did appreciate seeing Christmas services with beautiful music this way. What a challenge that must have been to coordinate! My admiration goes to those who have worked from home too, including my husband and daughter.

Sure it’s nice not to commute to work, but there’s that nagging feeling of being under house arrest for something you didn’t do.

Speaking of Zoom, I see where some DEER, TICK & MOSQUITO CONTROL first graders in Central Falls won a “name the new police dog” contest there. The winning name: Zoom, of course. Clever kids!

WINTER IS COMING...AND SO ARE THE DEER! And speaking of kids, a four-year-old I know DEER CONTROL ALL WINTER LONG asked her parents “When I’m a grownup, will I be working from home?” Now that’s an interesting question. Who knows how HEALTHY PLANTS the workplace will change in the coming months and years?

One of the jokes circulating last summer suggested putting up the Christmas tree in July and just declaring the year over. Good thing we didn’t know in March how long this thing was going to last. Now we can take DEER WERE HERE down the Christmas tree and declare the Don’t say year over. The name January comes from oh DEER the Roman god Janus, who was shown with this Spring two faces, looking back and looking forward.

Though we might want to forget 2020, scientists and historians will be analyzing it for years to come. But for the rest of us, we look Call or Text 774.266.7995 for a quote forward to seeing the light at the end of the southeasternma@oh-deer.com • oh-deer.com tunnel, finally.

What a year it has been! I would wish everyone a happy new year but that’s what we said last year and look what happened.

How about a “new and improved” year? One way to celebrate the arrival of 2021 would be to burn the 2020 calendar. Yet just turning the calendar page isn’t going to make that much of a change, not just yet.

One of the hardest aspects of this pandemic year was the irony of being asked to do good by doing nothing. That is, staying home and seeing few people, wearing masks and keeping our distance from others. Of course many people have been actively doing good. They include the doctors, nurses, and other medical personnel and first responders who have been putting their lives on the line for others.

The best way to show support for all these people is to do your best to keep from getting and spreading the virus, so that our hospitals aren’t overwhelmed. When hospitals are overcrowded,

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Hello All ~ Happy New Year ~ Another holiday that came and was celebrated in a very different way during the Coronavirus pandemic. Prayerfully, with the newly authorized and administered vaccines, 2021 will be a year of hope and health. Hoping life as we knew it, prior to the 2020 COVID-19 Pandemic, will soon be returned. I wish you all a safe, HEALTHY, happy, peaceful, and prosperous New Year. By now you should have received your 2021 Annual Census forms and dog tag application form. If you did not receive your 2021 census during the first week of January, please contact the Town Clerk’s Office (508) 252-6502 x-3109, 3112 or 3110. The 2021 census mailing includes a 2021 town calendar and town services directory. This is the eighth year the Clerk’s Office has provided a calendar in the census mailer. Over the past few years, we have received many compliments on how helpful the calendar has been during the year. In fact, residents have already called our office to see if the 2021 calendar was available yet. If you would like another copy of the calendar, please let us know; we will gladly share an extra copy, while supplies last. Thank you all for your kind comments and appreciation of the yearly town calendar.

We hope you find the 2021 Town calendar addition to your census mailing a beneficial and time saving tool ~ Happy New Year and thank you for sending your completed census forms back to us as soon as possible!

Due date is January 31st ~ thank you!

This year’s calendar features the “Church in the Village” ~ the Rehoboth Congregational Church (RCC). Did you know the Congregational Church will be celebrating their 300th Anniversary in 2021? The church organized on November 29, 1721 and will be celebrating their anniversary with special events throughout 2021. You may view the RCC’s 300th Anniversary Calendar of Events @ www.RehobothCongregational.org/300th As time permits, please take a few moments to read the information on the 2021 Calendar regarding the history of the Rehoboth Congregational Church. The Church in the Village is truly one of Rehoboth’s treasures!

Thank you, Photographer Tom Davis for the gorgeous photo he shared with us this year! Thank you also, Helen Davis for the wonderful historical excerpt you will find on this year’s calendar.

Continuing my goal of making town government more accessible to the residents, it is my hope that the calendar provides you with key information right at your fingertips.

You will note, the calendar signals residents of upcoming due dates such as real estate

January 2021 The Reporter tax payments, census forms, and dog license renewals, tentative rabies clinic date (depending on the pandemic situation), which are highlighted in green; upcoming election and town meeting dates, which are highlighted in blue, and town department holidays that are bolded in red (whole day) and purple (half day). On the reverse side of the calendar, you will also find a directory of the Town of Rehoboth’s departments, employees, and phone numbers. Also, included on the directory side of the calendar, you will find information and websites, which residents may find useful such as transfer station hours, burning permit information, school and library phone numbers, etc.

Annual Town Census

As mentioned in last month’s article, the Board of Registrars is required to conduct an annual street listing (Census) of residents as of the first of January each year. In addition to the name, address, date of birth, occupation, veteran status with “war era” noted, and number of dogs, the form includes a section for school information required by the school department. Results of the census are used to prove residency for a variety of reasons.

The data is used for state college entrance applications, veterans’ benefits, amending and establishing birth records, locating missing persons, establishing precinct lines, predicting future school enrollment, state and federal funding to the town, police and fire protection, updating the voting list, and other legal purposes. Please remember to add your alternative phone number and email to the census forms so we may contact you if needed ~ thank you!

Please review the pre-printed Census Form, make corrections, and return it no later than January 31st. You may choose to return the Census Form via the USPS or utilize Census drop off box at Town Hall.

Due to the Pandemic and COA fire, we have eliminated the drop off boxes at the Blanding Library, Bristol County Savings Bank, and the Senior Center this year. We will bring them back in 2022, after the pandemic is over and State of Emergency is lifted. Additionally, you can scan in your signed and completed census forms and email them to TownClerk@RehobothMA.gov .

This year’s census mailer has four inserts: the household census forms, the 2021 Calendar, and the Annual Dog Licensing form. Please note the Annual Rehoboth-Seekonk Rabies Clinic, which is scheduled for Saturday, March 20th, 2021 from 2:00 PM. to 4:00 PM. Please note the Rabies clinic will be offered this year at the Rehoboth Animal Shelter; behind Town Hall (148 Peck Street). The date (3-20-2021) is “tentative” and may be rescheduled to a later time if the COVID positive numbers remain high in Rehoboth. For more information, please see the bottom of the Dog Licensing Form or under the Dog Licenses and Rabies

Clinic sections of this article. Updated information will be shared on the Town Website at www.RehobothMA.gov The fourth insert is a single-sided document, which details important information from Rehoboth Ambulance Committee. Additionally, new residents may receive blank 2021 census forms, which they are asked to complete and return. If you do not receive a Census Form, please contact the Town Clerk’s Office 508-252-6502 X-3112 (Odete), 3109 (Lynn) or 3110 (Laura). Blank Census forms are also available on the town website @ http://www.town.rehoboth.ma.us/townclerk/pages/census-information Failure to return the completed form may result in voters being placed on an inactive voting list or being removed from the voting list.

Residents are requested to please send in their census forms as quickly as possible regardless of whether or not they license their dogs at this time. Census forms are due 1-31-21

2021 Dog Licenses

The 2021 Dog Licenses are now available and may be purchased through the Town Clerk’s Office. Again in 2021, residents will also be able to renew their dog licenses online with a Debit/Credit Card or Electronic Check (ACH/EFT) at https://www.invoicecloud.com/rehobothgovsvcs .

Whether renewing online, via mail, or in person through the outside drop box (town offices remain closed to the public due to the COVID-19 Pandemic), dog license applications must be accompanied by a current year rabies certificate (with a vaccination date covering the current licensing year) and proof of spay or neuter [if applying for the

9

$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-todate our information is. Dog owners should note that the license(s) will not be returned unless a stamped, self-addressed envelope is included (the current postage is 71¢ for one dog tag, 93¢ for two dog tags and 1.15¢ for three or four dog tags).

Reminder, all residents 70-years old or over do not need to pay the $10 or $20 yearly dog licensing fee. As I’m sure you remember, 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.

2021 – Annual Rabies Clinic

Keep them safe . . . inoculate! The Annual Rehoboth-Seekonk $12 Dog and Cat Rabies Clinic is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, March 20, 2021 - 2:00 PM ~ 4:00 PM. Continued on next page...

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10 The Reporter January 2021 This year the Rehoboth rabies clinic will be held at the Rehoboth Animal Shelter (148 Peck Street) rather than the Seekonk Public Works Department Garage. The Rehoboth Town Clerk’s Office Staff will be there to renew your 2021 Dog Licenses. If you would like to help us register the residents for their dog and cat rabies shots, please let us know. Please be aware, due to the COVID-19 Pandemic and the State group gathering guidelines, the 2021 Rabies Clinic may need to be delayed. Please check the Town Website for up-to-date Rabies Clinic information. For more details either on the rabies clinic or helping us staff the event, please call 508-252-6502 X-3112, 3109 or 3110 ~ thank you.

The Annual Town Election

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The Annual Town Election for the Town of Rehoboth will be held on Tuesday, April 6, 2021 with the polls open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. – Polling Location to be determined based on the current Pandemic, State of Emergency, and State Social Distancing protocols. Details will be communicated as we get closer to the election. As always, the Town Website will have updated polling information when available.

Nomination papers are now available for any registered voter in Rehoboth wishing to run for election on the Town ballot and who chooses not to seek a nomination through their registered party’s caucus process. Nomination papers may be picked up by prospective candidates, by appointment, at the Town Clerk’s office and must be returned, signed by a minimum of 50 registered voters. All signed and completed nomination papers are due back to the Board of Registrars at the Town Clerk’s Office by 5 p.m. on, or before, Tuesday, February 16th.

Positions to be elected on the ballot for 2021 are Moderator (one for 1 year), Selectmen (two positions for 3 years), Town Clerk (one for 3 years), Assessor (one for 3 years), School Committee (two for 3 years), Planning Board (one for 5 years), Park Commission (one for 5 years), Housing Authority (one for 5 years), Storm Water Officer (one for 3 years), Tree Warden (one for 3 years) and Water Commissioner (one for 3 years).

When the Democratic and Republican Town Committees decide on a definitive date dless Possibilities and location for their Annual Town Election Caucuses, I will print that information in my | SEEKONK, MA 02771 February Rehoboth Reporter article.

The final voter registration date, to be eligible to vote in the Annual Town Election, is scheduled for Wednesday, March 17th from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Town Clerk’s Office. Prospective voters are reminded that they may also register to vote online at www.RegisterToVoteMA.com , by calling the Town Clerk’s Office to request a Mail-In voter registration form, or download a form @ http://www.sec.state.ma.us/ele/elepdf/ Voter-reg-mail-in.pdf

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Applications for absentee ballots are available as of January 4th and may be obtained from the Town Clerk’s Office or online @ https://www.sec.state.ma.us/ele/ elepdf/absentee/English-Absentee-BallotApplication.pdf . An absentee ballot may only be obtained by written request and with the voter’s original signature. Filing deadline for an absentee ballot request for the April 6, 2021 Annual Town Election is 12:00 p.m. on April 5, 2021. Completed ballot requests/applications must be returned

January 2021 The Reporter to the Town Clerk’s Office no later than Noon on Monday, April 5, 2021. All absentee ballots must be returned to the Town Clerk’s Office/outside Ballot Drop Box by no later than 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 6, 2021.

Business Certificates

Business owners whose business certificate will expire during January through June of 2021 should have received a reminder for renewal. The renewal fee is $50.00 (certificate renewal is good for four years) and checks should be made payable to: The Town of Rehoboth. If you prefer to renew online, you may use the debit/ credit card/ ACH/EFT payment method on the town website. However, your signature must be notarized on the business certificate renewal form then scanned and e-mailed to the Town Clerk’s office. Free notary services are available at the Town Clerk’s office, by appointment only (508-252-6502), due to Town Offices being closed to the public. Debit/Credit Card or Electronic Check (ACH/ EFT) transactions may also be processed through the town clerk’s office, in addition to online.

Questions or suggestions regarding any of the above topics may be directed to the Town Clerk’s Office, Monday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, 508-252-6502, X3109 (Lynn), X3112 (Odete) or X3110 (Laura).

In closing, Lynn, Odete and I wish all of our town residents a happy, safe, peaceful, healthy, and prosperous New Year. Please all stay healthy and prayerfully our 2021 will be a happier and healthier year. Final reminders, Town Offices will be closed on Monday, January 18th in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and Real Estate Taxes are due February 1, 2021 ~ thank you. Please stay safe and I look forward to talking with you in February.

Sincerely, Laura, Lynn and Odete

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The Reporter January 2021

The Rehoboth Food Pantry Wishes You All a Joyful, Healthy, Peaceful, and Prosperous New Year

There is no question, 2020 has been a difficult year for so many of us, and though we have now turned the page to 2021, there is so much positive to reflect on from such a tumultuous 2020.

First and foremost, The Pantry is incredibly grateful for all You have done to ensure we could keep our doors open through the pandemic. A week hasn’t gone by since this all began where residents and businesses alike have reached out to donate food, funds, and volunteering. Businesses, both in town and nearby, Rehoboth residents as well as nearby towns - you have kept the Pantry going in this time of need - and on behalf of all of those we were able to aid through the year, we thank you all!

To our team of volunteers, who have continued to handle sorting, distribution, shopping, even when restrictions were the greatest and safety was a concern - along with all their time, often providing their own gloves and masks - THANK YOU! To the Community Garden and Moonrise Farms, and other local farmers, for providing fresh produce that otherwise would not have made it to our shelves - THANK YOU! To the Individuals, families, residents of neighborhoods such as Horton Estates and The Reserve, for organizing donations and drop-offs - THANK YOU! To the many businesses, many of whom wish to remain anonymous, who provided much needed monetary support, even when tough times hit their own bottom lines THANK YOU! To everyone who made the Thanksgiving Holiday more joyful, providing turkeys, pies, rolls, and other household necessities - THANK YOU! To those who organized various food drives, like the Community Food Drive; DR High Student Government; The Rehoboth Lions; - three local teens - Cadynce, Cassidy, and Hailey, who took it upon themselves to create the Spread Kindness Drive - THANK YOU! To Munroe Feed, Land-Tek, Farmer’s Market in Seekonk, and Blanding Library, for acting as convenient food drop off locations - THANK YOU! To The Town of Rehoboth, which provided through the CARES act much-needed safety and protection equipment, paper goods, toiletries, and other necessities THANK YOU! To the entire team at the Rehoboth Reporter, whose generosity has allowed us to communicate important information to the town - THANK YOU!!

Lastly, we wish to thank past-president Bill Dalpe, who led our team through one of OUR NAME HAS CHANGED – BUT IT’S STILL US! the most difficult times in our town’s history DR. FRANK CASARELLA, DMD IS NOW SEEKONK DENTAL - THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU. Bill’s term ended in 2020, and Vice President Bob Brawley will lead us through whatever 2021 shall bring.

The Pandemic has brought uncertainty, pain, and grief, but one thing it has not affected is the unfaltering giving nature of our Town, and we are all blessed to be among its residents.

As we now leave the “official” Holiday Season, know that we are here each week, providing confidential food and heating assistance for our Rehoboth residents who may need our aid; and we continue to be grateful for the incredible support this DR. FRANK CASARELLA DR. LURI LEE town brings. Please remember, if you are homebound, reach out so we may arrange NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS for delivery.

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Thank You from the Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Inc.

The Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving would like to thank the entire community for their generosity supporting this year’s Blizzard of Giving. You exceeded our expectations and made certain numerous families and children had a Merry Christmas! Whether you provided us with a location for all of our gifts, provided a space for a collection box or a gift “snowflake” board, adopted a family, took a tag, donated a gift, or assisted with our collection boxes, please know that we are truly appreciative and humbled. Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving could not have been successful without your support, and together you have once again demonstrated that Rehoboth is an amazing community! God Bless you!

Sincerely, Maureen Brawley, Cathy Edington, and Colleen McBride Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Inc. www.rehobothblizzardofgiving.org

Update on the Kindness Food Drive

We would like to thank all that contributed to the Kindness Food Drive. By their donations we were able to secure food that would provide for some families in need during these very difficult times. We had a great turnout, and are happy to be a part of such a wonderful and generous community . Additionally, we are very proud to be a part of efforts that hopefully helped people in need.

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Rehoboth Animal Shelter News

There is a very friendly cat at the Rehoboth Animal Shelter, waiting for a special home. Harry is a handsome black and white neutered male, a middle-aged gentleman cat. He enjoys attention, likes climbing on the cat tree, and is not bothered by dogs. Harry is FIV positive, which means that he needs to live indoors and away from any FIV negative cats. For more information or to make an appointment to meet Harry, please contact the shelter at 508-252-5421, ext 126. That is also the number to call to report a lost or found pet. Our adoptable pets are also listed on Petfinder.com.

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New Police Building in the Works

By Joe Siegel Work is progressing on a new building for the Rehoboth Police Department. Last May, the Board of Selectmen authorized a payment to the town of Dartmouth for the purchase of a modular building for $225,000.

The funding for the expenditure was drawn from the Sale of Real Estate reserve account, which was established for the construction and improvement costs for the public safety building.

Dartmouth had housed their police department in the modular unit for the past three years. The purchase also included all the furniture and light fixtures in the building.

The new facility will be 8000 square feet and will accommodate the needs of the police and fire departments, as well as ambulance operations. The current 2600 square feet facility at 334 Anawan Street has been criticized by officials for a shortage of space and poor health conditions. “We’re tripping over each other,” Police Chief James Trombetta said last February.

Selectman Gerry Schwall recently acknowledged the efforts of Selectman Michael Costello, who has been overseeing the project. “(Costello) has put in a tremendous amount of work on (the building),” Schwall noted. “He’s been in there on weekends, he’s done things himself. How do we help to get it done better and get it done faster and on budget?”

Costello said the exterior work is 90 percent complete and is arranging for National Grid to install wiring and a transformer.

“I’m all in favor of everybody working together,” Trombetta added.

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The Reporter January 2021

Rehoboth Town Events Committee Announces Winners of the “Light Up Rehoboth” Competition

The Rehoboth Town Events Committee is pleased to announce the winners of the holiday decorating competition. The quality of the competition was exceptional! The most difficult part for the committee was choosing the winners, as so many homes were

real contenders! We even noted some addresses that may have altered these results with their tasteful displays, if only they had registered! (Hopefully next year!) Congratulations to the winners and to all the participants. Happy Holidays!

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January 2021 The Reporter

Schwall Disappointed By CARES Funding

our two district municipalities before December 1, DESE will continue its fiscal oversight,” Azar continued. “We believe that DESE has seen firsthand our budgetary process and therefore the fiscal oversight is due to the fact that both member towns have to support their respective assessments. In this case, as in last year’s case, that did not happen. In conclusion, we look forward to continue to work with our two member towns and DESE to continue to provide an excellent academic program for all students.”

By Joe Siegel Rehoboth Selectman Gerry Schwall expressed his frustration at the lack of any further reimbursements from the federal government for coronavirus-related expenditures. The $900 Billion Covid relief package passed by the U.S. Senate does not include money for any state or local expenses, according to Schwall.

“As of December 31, every (town) government is flying on its own nickel. It’s very unfortunate, very disappointing.”

The town has utilized funds from the federal CARES Act to invest in infrastructure, including computers systems, a new phone system, and new windows and doors for town buildings. There is also a stockpile of PPE and disinfectant.

The Board of Selectmen voted Monday to approve $112,000 for Beckwith Middle School and Palmer River Elementary School. The funds will be used to reimburse the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District’s purchase of ThinkPad laptop computers for all the teachers at Beckwith and Palmer River, the enhancement of PPE stockpiles, and the installation of “Flush-OMeters” in the school bathrooms.

Schwall added the improvements were VIEW OUR INSTALLATIONS “tangible” and “significant.”

DESE Assumes Control of Dighton-Rehoboth School District

By Joe Siegel For the second consecutive year, the state’s Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has assumed control of the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District.

In a December 3 letter to School Superintendent Anthony Azar, school committee chairman Thomas O’Connor, and various town officials, DESE’s associate commissioner John Sullivan said if a budget was not accepted before December 1, DESE “shall establish a budget for the year and assume fiscal oversight of the district.”

“I am very excited to know that once again the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has given our school district the budget we have asked for in regard to FY’21,” Azar said Thursday. “If you recall, back in April, the School Committee voted for a budget that represented a meager .377 percent increase over last year’s budget. The commissioner of education, through his designee, has arrived at a total budget for the school district that represents what our administration and School Committee put forward for consideration back in April.”

“As the letter from Mr. Sullivan states, since a budget was not formally adopted by

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The Reporter January 2021

Rehoboth Officials Look at 2022 Budget

By Joe Siegel After a year of economic turmoil due to the coronavirus pancommittee’s budget sub-committee as well,” Azar continued. “As demic, town and school officials are preparing their budgets for you are both fully aware, this budget process is one in which my the 2022 fiscal year, which begins July 1. In an e-mail to Rehoboth administration has followed for the past six years. In addition, we Finance Committee Chairman Michael Deignan and Dighton have every intention of delivering a preliminary budget/assessment Finance Committee Chairman Ed Swartz, Dighton-Rehoboth to our two respective municipalities by February 15th as outlined School Superintendent Anthony Azar explained that budget disin our Regional Agreement.” cussions have already commenced. “The purpose of this email is “The state level-funded our state aid for the current fiscal year,” to inform you that the administrative team began discussing the Deignan said. “Of course, that’s not to say they couldn’t decide FY’22 budget soon after DESE (Department of Elementary and to reduce it at some point going forward if their revenues fail to Secondary Education) finalized our FY’21 budget,” Azar wrote. materialize.” Deignan said all town departments are currently re“With that being said, our central office team has now begun the stricting their spending by order of the Board of Selectmen. “I am budget process with our respective administrative teams from cautiously optimistic we will meet our revenue estimates for the each school.” “Moreover, soon we will be meeting with the school current fiscal year, as we were extremely conservative with our estimates and level-funded many of our revenue categories at the prior fiscal years’ levels,” Deignan said. “The regional school district can make any request they wish, whether or not we would be able to fund their request is a different issue.”

Azar noted DESE has set the budget for the school district for the last two years.

“In both instances we have submitted a budget to DESE, and in their own words they described our budget as reasonable, and that was reflective of the needs of our school district while respecting the needs of our two towns with no tax increases or overrides,” Azar added. “In my role as Superintendent, our administrative team will continue to reflect the needs of the towns and our school district as we all strive to navigate a pandemic unlike any that we have ever experienced.”

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Rehoboth Town Election

By Joe Siegel A number of board and committee seats will be up for grabs in the April 6, 2021 town election.

Positions to be elected include Town Moderator (one year term), Board of Selectmen (two positions for three years each), Town Clerk (three year term), Board of Assessors (three year term), two positions on the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Committee (three year terms), Planning Board (five year term), Park Commission (five year term), Housing Authority ( five years), Storm Water Officer (three years), Tree Warden (three years), and Water Commission (three years).

Nomination papers will be available by appointment for any registered voter in the town of Rehoboth on January 4. Please contact the Town Clerk at 508-252-6502. The papers must have a minimum of 50 signatures from registered voters in the Town of Rehoboth and be returned to the Board of Registrars at the Town Clerk’s office before 5 pm on February 16.

January 2021 The Reporter

The Seekonk Scene The Clerk’s Corner HAPPY NEW YEAR, as we bid farewell to 2020 a year that challenged all of us. The Town Clerk’s office hopes that everyone had time to reflect on all for which we are grateful for. We also would like to wish you a happy, healthy, safe and prosperous New Year.

2021 Town Census Information The 2021 Annual Town census will be mailed to all households in Seekonk due to Florice Craig arrive by mid-January. Please update the information provided by adding, deleting, or making changes directly on the form. Please sign and return the census within 30 days.

You CANNOT REGISTER TO VOTE ON THIS FORM. On the census you will notice a letter next to your name. The letter indicates your political party affiliation. For instance, an “R” indicates Republican party, a “D” indicates Democratic party, a “U” indicates Unenrolled (Independent) party, etc.

If you don’t have a party designation next to your name you can register to vote by going online to www.sec.state.ma.us. Due to the Town Hall being closed to the public at this time, we are asking that you either mail it back with the provided envelope, or drop it in the Town Hall drop-box (outside Town Hall’s front door), or you can scan it, and email it to: fcraig@seekonk-ma.gov or lsorel@seekonk-ma.gov Failure to return your census may result in the removal from the active voting list. (MGL ch51 sec.

4c) The data collected from the census is used to prove residency, update the town’s voter rolls, veteran’s benefits, birth records, locating missing persons, estimating future school enrollment, establishing precinct lines, state and federal funding for the town, police and fire.

Included in the town census mailing is a dog license form. This gives dog owners the opportunity to license their dogs by mail or drop-box before the March 31st due date.

Mail to: Seekonk Town Hall, Town Clerk’s Office 100 Peck St, Seekonk, MA 02771 or drop it in the Town Hall drop-box (outside Town Hall’s front door). Please include a copy of each dog’s current rabies certificate issued by your veterinarian and a selfaddressed stamped envelope. The license fees are $10 for spayed and neutered dogs and $20 for un-spayed or un-neutered dogs.

Checks are to be made out to the Town of Seekonk. Mass General Law requires that all dogs be licensed annually, with proof of current rabies vaccinations. Failure to comply will result in a by-law citation fine. If you have any questions about dog licensing please do not hesitate to call our office at 508-336-2920.

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The town DPW will be picking up natural Christmas trees curbside from January 4- January 29, 2021. The pickup days will correspond to the days of your normal trash and recycling collection.

As usual, it will be weather permitting.

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The Reporter January 2021

Absentee Ballot Applications

Absentee ballot applications are available in our office, or on our web-site. If you want to be put on the permanent absentee ballot mailing list please fill out the form and check off “for all elections”.

If you know you will be out of Town for a certain election you can request an absentee ballot several weeks before an election.

Annual Town Election

The Annual Seekonk Town Election 2021 will be held Monday April 5, 2021. Nomination papers for offices are available in the Town Clerk’s office. Deadline to submit nomination papers to the Town Clerk is Monday March 1, 2021 at 5PM. You must obtain a minimum of 50 signatures from voters registered in Seekonk. A street address not a P.O. Box is required from each person signing your papers. Please make sure signatures are legible or we will not be able to certify them.

Elected positions for the April 5, 2021 Annual Town Election Board of Selectmen - Two seats (3-year term) Board of Assessors - One seat (3-year term) Board of Assessors - One seat (2-year term) The Library Board of Trustees - Two seats (3-year term) Housing Authority – One seat (5-year term) Planning Board – One seat (5-year term) School Committee – Two seats (3-year term) Water Commission - One seat (3-year term) A friendly reminder the third quarterly real-estate tax bills will be due on February 1, 2021.

Monday January 18, 2021 Town Hall will be closed for appointments and phone calls in observance of Martin Luther King Day. Have a wonderful month. As always thank you for taking the time to read my monthly updates and remember the Town Clerk’s office welcomes inquiries from all citizens seeking assistance, or information in relation to services provided by the Town of Seekonk.

Seekonk Land Conservation Trust News Branching Out— The Great Outdoors

Are you looking for places to walk with your family and/or friends? Are you hoping to spend some time outside on a trail in the woods?

Have you already been on a short walk at the Edna Martin Wildlife Refuge along the edge of scenic Burr’s Pond? Maybe you’ve walked through the longer trails at Gamino Pond Conservation Area and connecting trails behind the Seekonk Public Library? Perhaps you’ve tried the 3 mile loop trails at Caratunk Wildlife Refuge owned

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by RI Audubon on Brown Avenue? And, you’ve already walked the beautiful flat and paved bike path along the northwest side of the Turner Reservoir accessed behind Kimberly Rock Fields up to to Slater Park? Are you ready to take a longer hike, with some historic interest?

The body of water split by Newman Avenue is the Turner Reservoir and has a trailhead on the west side that is part of the Turner Reservoir Loop Trail. This trail follows the shore with a post and rail fence along the property of the Bridgham Farm subdivision where there is a short trail to the right that will lead you into a cul-de-sac of the subdivision where you will see a very large oak tree, said to be over 400 year old known as the Newman Oak. Another site is just over the rooftops where you can catch a glimpse of the old windmill that was part of old Bridgham Farm. Following this trail by the oak tree leads into the Bridgham Farm Conservation Area and a large open field which was conserved during the 1990’s.

The trail continues back out to the reservoir where it follows the earthen embankment towards the Turner Dam built in the 1930’s to create the Turner Reservoir as a drinking supply for East Providence and was used as the primary water supply until the late 1960’s.

The trail continues to the south and leads to a parking area along Route 114A. From here you can cross the street and walk up Hunts Mills Road to Hunts Mills Falls or cut back across the Ten Mile River Bridge into Seekonk and enter the boardwalk section of the trail on the eastern side of the Turner Reservoir Loop Trail.

Up towards Hunts Mill is the lovely Georgian style John Hunt House built in the second half of the 1700’s and the current home of the EP Historical Society. To the right of the house is a gazebo with a red trail marker designating the beginning of the three quarter mile Hunts Mills Trail. Along this stretch there are two rock outcrops by the river known as Sunset Rock and Otter Rock. When the river is low you might see turn of the century inscriptions on the rocks.

Behind the Hunt House are informational boards describing the history of the property where once stood an amusement park, a carousel, and large stone pump house.

Back in the lot on the Seekonk side of 114A, the trail begins again on boardwalks that cross over the wetlands but soon come back to the earthen Turner Dam. Here, the view of the waterfall offers a sweeping view of the reservoir. The trail follows some blue blazes up towards Seekonk High School athletic fields and these wide groomed paths leads out to peninsulas that offers great views of the reservoir and eventually out to Arcade Avenue. You have short bit of road walking before turning left back to Newman Avenue and across the reservoir to where you began.

Enjoy the great outdoors and see you outside! Notice the variations of tree bark and shapes of trees seen so much easier in winter. Look for footprints in the snow. Listen to the birds and enjoy the fresh air. Just dress for the weather and the walking will keep you warm.

Would you be willing to write 1 or 2 sentences about what open land, hiking trails, and open space means to you and your family, especially during this past year? We hope your voice and the efforts of Seekonk Land Trust will be strengthened if we can include your experiences in our description of why land is so important to preserve. Feel free to mention specific places and or recommendations for future acquisition!

Please reply on our website https://www.seekonklandtrust.org, www.facebook.com/seekonkLCT, or email comments to kleddy44@ gmail.com. You may see your comments in a future article.

Want to find a trail to take your dog? Need a spot that is ADA compliant? Searching for a safe canoe or kayak launch? Need maps to each trail head? You might need to get “Easy walks and paddles in the Ten Mile River Watershed” by Ten Mile River Watershed Council and Majorie Turner Hollman. It’s a users guide to 39 outdoor spaces in the towns that host the Ten Mile River (the river travels through Plainville, North Attleboro, Attleboro, Seekonk, Pawtucket, and East Providence before reaching a confluence at the Seekonk River at Omega Falls) and covers more than 120 trails in all.

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

January 2021 The Reporter

Doorways Volunteers of the Year - 2020

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Squirrel Nest This humble home Up in The tree, A refuge safe From such As me.

They huddle there In this Snow storm, With cupboards Full of Their acorns.

They built This nest For such A storm.

May home Be safe.

May home Be warm.

Don Gardner Seekonk, MA

Volunteers of the year Evan Fasteson, Timothy Breen, and Emily Fasteson Evan Fasteson, Timothy Breen, and Emily Fasteson have worked every curbside food distribution for Doorways for the past eight months, with great energy and good humor. Doorways is pleased to name them “Volunteers of the Year” for the year 2020.

This has been an extremely difficult year for Doorways Food Pantry, with sharp increases in the number of clients served and even sharper increases in the cost of feeding those clients. But this community has responded in our time of need, supporting us at levels not seen before. Your gifts support many Seekonk residents in need of a helping hand, and the food thus provided will fill the cupboards of homes throughout our community during the long winter season. More than seventy local families rely on Doorways on a regular basis, and Doorways, in turn, relies on people like you.

This past November, Doorways began its twentieth year in operation. In our first week of operation, seven families were served.

This year, eighty families received a Thanksgiving meal through the Doorways food pantry. Over the course of the last twenty years, many hundreds of families have received necessary support, and over one and a half million pounds of food has been distributed – all at no cost to our clients, and all made possible by the generosity of the people of Seekonk. Our gratitude is boundless - we are humbled by your support, awed by your generosity, and hopeful for the future. We give thanks for all you do.

Doorways is pleased to announce our first-ever “Volunteers of the Year” for 2020, the year of the Covid. In response to the pandemic, Doorways was forced to radically shrink our volunteer base in order to limit the numbers involved. Since we switched to contactless food delivery eight months ago, these three teens have become mainstays of the Doorways operation – they have worked every curbside food distribution from May through December, growing in responsibility while retaining a touch of youthful spirit that has found great favor with our clients. There is no beacon of hope in a community quite like young people displaying empathy and engaging in community service - these young people are the light shining in the darkness, the assurance that not everyone is more absorbed in their phone than they are in their neighbor.

May God bless us all as we close out the Christmas season and look forward in hope to the New Year. Thank you again. We are very grateful for your support.

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The Reporter January 2021

Seekonk Family Makes Christmas Happen For Doorways Clients

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Three years ago, thirteen year old Kaylen McGovern was inspired to take action at Christmas to help Seekonk families in need, organizing a toy drive in her neighborhood. She created a flyer and enlisted her two younger sisters to help distribute them throughout her neighborhood. She collected over one hundred items which were distributed through the Doorways Food Pantry.

The following year, she organized a toy drive again, yielding more than two hundred toys that brought joy to dozens of homes in our little town. This year Kaylen planned for the biggest and best toy drive yet, and the annual toy drive has become a Christmas tradition involving the entire McGovern clan, their extended family, their neighbors and friends. Kaylen’s mom, Jennifer, estimated that they had doubled the number of toys from last year’s total, and pronounced the whole experience had added depth to the family’s celebration of Christmas.

“It’s not just the kids who benefit from the toys”, said Doug Hayward of Doorways. “I have seen parents walk out of the toy distribution with tears streaming down their faces. No one wants to see their kid go without at Christmas, and the joy and relief on their faces is a wonder to behold.” On behalf of our clients, Doorways thanks the McGovern family and all the generous people who donated to the toy drive.

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Kaylen, Marley and Kerrin McGovern have conducted a toy drive for each of the last three years.

January 2021 The Reporter

Seekonk Residents Divided Over Access Road Closure

By Joe Siegel Residents who live in the town’s North End are split over a decision to block an access road off of Plainfield Street. “I’ve lived here for 35 years and I have never seen such reckless speeding as I’ve seen this year,” said Joyce Silvestri at the December 23 Board of Selectmen meeting. “It is a very dangerous situation,” said Silvestri, who lives close to Plainfield Street. Silvestri noted motorists were cutting through the back entrance of Stop and Shop to avoid the traffic lights on Newman Avenue.

Police Chief Dean Isabella reported receiving complaints of trucks and vehicles using the rear lot entrance to Stop and Shop Plaza. “We were told this access was causing hazardous traffic conditions and excessive noise was also being generated,” Isabella said.

Selectman David Viera said the traffic problem has been ongoing for several years.

“That’s a normal cut-through for not only the trucks, but for people that live in that neighborhood, I’m sure they cut through more often than not. I can’t say that I blame them,” Viera noted.

“There’s a speed bump there and it’s ignored,” said Selectman David Andrade. “It’s a simple solution. It’s a jersey barrier or it’s a fence.”

Beverly Church, who also lives close to Planfield Street, said residents weren’t given notice about the closure and took issue with the way selectmen handled the matter. “They just automatically (approved) it, didn’t ask any questions,” Church said. Church also believes traffic was not a problem on the access road. “I never saw more than one or two cars at a time.”

The barriers will remain in place for quite awhile, if Viera has anything to say about the matter: “Once they go up, that’s it. They’re staying as far as I’m concerned.”

Seekonk Town Election

By Joe Siegel A number of board and committee seats will be open for the April 5 town election.

The openings include two seats on the Board of Selectmen (three years each), two seats for the School Committee (three years each), two seats on the Board of Assessors (one for two years and one for three years), one seat on the Housing Authority (five years), one seat on the Water Commission (three years), one seat on the Planning Board (five years), and two seats on the Library Board of Trustees (three years).

Nomination papers are now available and must be submitted to the Town Clerk’s office no later than 5 pm on March 1. You must obtain a minimum of 50 signatures from registered voters in the town of Seekonk.

Seekonk Officials Shocked

by Motel Activity

By Joe Siegel Seekonk town officials are planning to take action against a few of the motels on busy Route 6. Police Chief Dean Isabella told the Board of Selectmen about complaints he has received regarding criminal activities at the establishments from business owners.

Chairman Justin Sullivan found the details in the reports of assaults, drug overdoses, and prostitution at the motels to be “shocking” and “appalling.”

Champion Motorsports, a used car dealership, is located across from one of the motels. “In the past several months, we’ve just seen a real increase in illegal activity,” owner Hilary Lundgren said at Wednesday’s meeting. “It’s now to the point where we’re calling the police almost every week.”

Drug and sex trafficking have escalated over the past several years. “We’re basically working security for the motels,” Isabella noted. “It’s a waste of resources.” Isabella said the owners of these continued on next page...

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The Reporter January 2021

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motels need to change their business models in order to reach a more desirable clientele.

The owner of the Colonial Inn had been “cooperative” when police contacted him and was “taking some steps to try to increase the quality of his clientele there,” Isabella noted. “The police department is working on a strategy to deal with the problem in the long term and we’re collecting the data associated with those locations.”

Town Administrator Shawn Cadime proposed a nuisance ordinance which would need to be approved by voters at the Spring Town Meeting. In the future, Isabella suggested motel operators who rent rooms to suspicious individuals could be warned or issued fines.

Selectmen believe the criminal activities at the motels have been tainting the town’s reputation and negatively the quality of life for residents. “This has been going on for too long,” Selectman David Andrade said. “Something needs to be done in these areas,” Selectman Adam Petronio added. “I’m sad to see it’s reached this point.”

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Seekonk Officials Get Tough on Covid

By Joe Siegel Town officials are hoping to have a Covid testing location up and running in the next few weeks. “Our numbers are the highest in the state,” Town Administrator Shawn Cadime said at Wednesday’s selectmen meeting.

Providing legal services since 1979.

The nearest test sites are in Attleboro and Fall River. Cadime hopes to get a test facilExperience matters. ity for the south end of town. “Testing will help us get the rates down,” Chairman Justin Sullivan noted.

According to data released by the Massachusetts Department of Health, for the two week testing period which concluded on December 17, Seekonk reported 182 new cases. The daily average is 84.01 per 100,000 residents. The daily positivity rate was 13.94 percent. Seekonk has been given the designation of red, which is reserved for cities and towns with the highest average of new infections.

To provide awareness to the community, Cadime, Police Chief Dean Isabella, Fire Chief David Rave, and Assistant Health Agent Carlson Tree has been your neighborhood Brian Darling have recorded a Public Service Announcement, which tree care service for over 30 years! can be viewed on the Town Hall Facebook page. “As this year comes to an end and the holiday season is upon us, household spread has become associated with the most cases of confirmed Covid-19 • Fully insured • Residential and Commercial in the state of Massachusetts,” Darling said, noting residents can • Technical Tree Removal • Shade Tree Pruning help to stop the spread by limiting their holiday gatherings and • Ornamental Pruning participating in contact tracing instituted by the board of health.

Selectman David Andrade said he wanted to see the town’s Covid-19 Task Force re-established. The original task force, consistCall us today for a free estimate (508) 964-3397 ing of Cadime and the members of the public safety departments, had been disbanded. “I just think we need to be ready in case something does escalate,” Andrade explained.

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January 2021 The Reporter

Seekonk World War II Veteran Passes

By Joe Siegel Dave Humphrey, one of the town’s few remaining World War II veterans, passed away Monday, December 7th, a day which also marked the 79th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. Humphrey, 95, joined the US Army at the age of 15 and was sent to Italy, where he served in the 15th Infantry, Third Division Army. Humphrey received a Purple Heart for wounds sustained on the battlefield.

At last year’s Seekonk Veterans’ Day ceremony, Humphrey was recognized by town and state officials for his military service. Humphrey and his late wife, Lillian, raised four children. Humphrey became a champion racer at Seekonk Speedway, where he competed for several years.

“I drove everything,” Humphrey told the Reporter in 2019. “Midgets, spread cars, stock cars, three quarter midgets. It was just something I liked, that’s all. When I got out of the service, Seekonk Speedway was opening. I saw those guys (racing) and said ‘that’s what I want to do.’” Humphrey gained national recognition when he started racing midget cars.

He won his last midget race in 1986 at the age of 61. In total, he won 72 Northeastern Midget Association feature events, and six NEMA driving championships. In 2016, Humphrey was inducted into the Seekonk Speedway’s Hall of Fame. He had been a member of the NEMA Hall of Fame.

Humphrey is survived by his children Steven Humphrey, his wife Maria of East Providence, RI, Betty Schifino-Cotoia of Pawtucket, RI, MaryLee Humphrey of Seekonk, MA with whom he lived and Susan Young of van Nuys, CA. His grandchildren, David Schifino, Kim Schifino, Heather Cotoia, Sheila Zuccarello and Jake Young.

Services with military honors and burial at Gate of Heaven Cemetery will be private.

Dave Humphrey

Dave won 72 Northeastern Midget Association feature events, and six NEMA driving championships

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24

The Reporter January 2021

The new default program rate is $0.10470 per kilowatt hour (kWh) from January 2021 through December 2023; this default rate meets all state renewable electricity standards. The National Grid Residential Basic Service electricity rate is $0.12388/kWh for the six month period from November 2020 through April 2021. In addition the program also offers two options with more renewable electricity than required by state law.

More information about the program and all the options can be found on the program website masscea.com/Seekonk.

Seekonk Community Electricity Aggregation Program Renewed Through the End of 2023 The town of Seekonk announces that it has renewed its electricity aggregation program for another 35 months starting in January 2021. No action is required on the part of the current program participants as they will continue their electricity service automatically with the new supplier, Constellation.

The Seekonk CEA program is part of a larger electricity purchasing group, providing Seekonk residents and businesses with competitive choice and longer-term price stability. During the first five years of the program, it has provided significant value to the community.

“We are very excited that this successful program is entering its sixth year of operation – it has been a great benefit to Seekonk homeowners,” said Town Administrator Shawn Cadime.

The new default program rate is $0.10470 per kilowatt hour (kWh) from January 2021 through December 2023; this default rate meets all state renewable electricity standards. The National Grid Residential Basic Service electricity rate is $0.12388/kWh for the six month period from November 2020 through April 2021. In addition the program also offers two options with more renewable electricity than required by state law. More information about the program and all the options can be found on the program website masscea.com/Seekonk.

The The program rates, rates, resulting from a competitive bid, are fixed over 35 months of35 themonths electric supply program resulting from a competitive bid, arethe fixed over the of the agreement (ESA) from January 2021 through December2021 2023.through The Seekonk CEA product offerings and rates electric supply agreement (ESA) from January December 2023.

The Seekonk will be: CEA product offerings and rates will be: National Grid rate

Seekonk default rate

Basic service (residential customers)

CEA optional rates Seekonk Local Green 50%

Seekonk Local Green 100%

Meets state renewable electricity standards

Meets state renewable electricity standards

50% in addition to state renewable electricity standards

100% in addition to state renewable electricity standards

$0.12388/kWh

$0.10470/kWh

$0.12244/kWh

$0.14019/kWh

Duration November 2020- April 2021

Duration: January 2021 - December 2023 Products described as Green contain renewable electricity above that required by state law. The additional renewable electricity qualifies for MA Class I designation.

Local refers to geographic areas permitted under MA Class I designation, namely New England, New York and eastern Canada.

Disclaimer: Savings cannot be guaranteed as compared to Basic Service rates which change every six months for residential and commercial accounts and every three months for industrial accounts.

Current Seekonk residents and businesses who are participating in the CEA program will be automatically transitioned to the new default electricity rate as of their January 2021 meter read date.

Those who do not want to participate in Seekonk CEA can opt out without penalty or change to a different program option at any time on the program website masscea.com/ Seekonk or by calling the supplier Constellation at 833-461-0813.

For more information about the program, go to masscea.com/Seekonk.

Contact: Bruce Alexander, 508-336-2971, balexander@seekonk-ma.gov

January 2021 The Reporter

25

Events & Activities Audubon Society of Rhode Island Brrrr…Birding in Winter!

Audubon Offers Virtual and Outdoor Winter Birding Programs

Rehoboth Congregation Church 300th Anniversary Committee to Hold Zoom Trivia

The Rehoboth Congregation Church 300th Anniversary Committee will be holding a zoom trivia on January 29th. For more information go to rehobothcongregational.org/300th.

Our history moment remembers the ten founding members of the Palmer River Meeting House on November 29, 1721: David Turner (pastor), Elisha May, Thomas Ormsbee (Deacons), Jathniel Peck, Samuel Peck, Benjamin Wilson, Solomon Millard, Samuel Fuller, William Blanding, and Joseph Wilson.

Church Take-Out Dinner at Centenary United Methodist Church Saturday, January 16th

Save the date and reserve your “take-out” Meatloaf dinner on Saturday, January 16. Centenary United Methodist Church is preparing “Mom’s Meatloaf” dinner which includes; a hearty portion of “Mom’s” secret Recipe Meatloaf, roasted potatoes, vegetable, dinner roll and a homemade dessert. Meals are ready to go at 5:30pm, 15 Sanford St, Attleboro. Adults $12 and kids under 10 $6.

Call 508-222-1759 or email cumc15.events@gmail.com to order your meal.

Let Centenary do the cooking for you!

8th Annual Blood Drive in Memory of Bob Mckenna Saturday, January 23, 2021

The 8th annual blood drive in memory of Bob McKenna will be held on Saturday, January 23, 2021 from 9:00 - 3:00 at Seekonk High School . The location may change if Covid restrictions prohibit use of the school cafeteria. The turnout has been wonderful every year and the family hopes that trend continues, despite the pandemic. Blood donations are needed more than ever. Appointments will be required this year. To be sure you get the time slot you desire, please visit the RIBC.org website and make your reservation now.

Join a virtual birding workshop with Audubon and learn the basics about local bird species and where to find them in winter.

Then head outside to practice your new birding skills on your own, or join an Audubon outdoor program designed with safety in mind.

Amusing, beautiful, and oh so hungry, birds found at winter feeders are a source of joy to many in New England. While a large number of species migrate south in the fall, there are also many birds that stick around and shift their behaviors to survive the cold.

Interested in learning more about local birds? Audubon is offering online winter birding workshops with several sessions and convenient times. Learn from the experts safely at home, head outside to practice your birding skills, and then reconnect again with Audubon to have your questions answered. Take your birding skills to the next level! New birding walks are also available to compliment these workshops, all following COVID-19 safety guidelines.

Beginning Birding with Audubon Two Virtual Sessions

Curious about the birds in your backyard? Want to get started with birding? Join Lauren Parmelee, Audubon Senior Director of Education, for a two-part virtual introduction to bird identification.

Learn about local birds through photographs that highlight key features and the variety of species found in Rhode Island. Tips for finding birds, using field guides, and buying binoculars will also be shared. Participant questions are encouraged and welcome!

These virtual birding workshops are also linked to new Audubon Sunday Bird Walks in Bristol, RI that begin on February 7, 2021 and continue every Sunday through the spring.

Session 1:

Tuesday, January 19, 2021; 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.

Repeated: Wednesday, January 20, 2021; 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Session 2:

Tuesday, January 26, 2021; 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.

Repeated: Wednesday, January 27, 2021; 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Fee: $20/Audubon Society of Rhode Island members, $28/ non-members Zoom link will be sent to participants in advance. Register on line through the events calendar at www.asri.org.

Sunday Morning Bird Walks with Audubon Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, Bristol, RI Sunday mornings beginning February 7, 2021 and continuing through the spring. 8:30 – 9:30 a.m.*

Join a small group of birders for Sunday morning bird walks on the grounds of the Audubon Nature Center & Aquarium in Bristol with Lauren Parmelee, Audubon Senior Director of Education.

Many birds can be found around the feeders and in the fields and wetlands of this beautiful wildlife refuge. As winter transitions into spring, who knows what birds you can find? Dress warmly and bring binoculars and a field guide if you have them.

Masks and social distancing are required for all programs.

Participants must bring their own masks. Advance registration required as group size is limited. Walks are weather dependent.

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, 1401 Hope Street, Bristol, RI; Sunday Mornings beginning February 7, 2021, 8:30 – 9:30 am; Fee: $5/ Audubon Society of Rhode Island members, $7/non-members. Ages: 12 and up. Register online through the events calendar at www.asri.org.

26

The Reporter January 2021

Scouting Around Town Pack 1 Rehoboth Cleans Up Historic Cemeteries Braving the cold December weather, members of Pack 1 Rehoboth conducted a much needed cleanup for a few of the town’s historic cemeteries. This was in support of community service requirements and included picking up large branches, removing any litter, and clearing the grounds of all leaves. These cemeteries have not been done in some time and the results were remarkable!

The Tiger den and their families worked on Historic Cemetery #21, with the Tiger scout participants being Logan Luedke, Clive Tavares, Jason Zapata, Cameron Greenhalge, and den leader Mike Luedke.

Christian Petersen of the Wolf den and his family worked on Historic Cemetery #17.

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January 2021 The Reporter

William Anderson Explains How to “Shoot a Point” to Members of Swansea Boy Scout Troop 303

December 12th a Sunday, a day of rest, but not for William Anderson - Director of Engineering and Highway Services in Swansea.

He spent several hours teaching scouts how to properly survey land for a few possible kayak launches in town. Anthony Celio and William Snell both members of Swansea Boy Scout Troop 303 are looking into the possibility of these being their Eagle projects.

Scouts learned about the Sexagesimal System and even a little Trigonometry on Magnitude of angles. Both scouts had a chance to shoot several points and were involved with the entire process.

Mr. Anderson will use these points and assist in creating a topographical map of the areas for the scouts so they may go in front of the Conservation Board and others to ask permission to continue with these kayak projects.

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The Reporter January 2021

2020 Hasn’t Stopped Troop 13!!

Happy Holidays and Happy New Year everyone! From Troop 13 Rehoboth, we wish you all a safe and healthy New Year, especially during these challenging times. Even during a pandemic, Troop 13 hasn’t stopped! Since September, the Troop has been working hard, not only with rank advancements, but still finding ways to enjoy scouting while getting together safely. It’s been a lot of day trips and zoom meetings but we all are getting through it together!

In September, we focused on games and skills to ease back into the scouting year. We were able to get some overnight camping in September and October. Also in October, we learned about shooting skills with the Mansfield Fish and Game Range welcoming us to come and put our skills to the test. Thank you to the range, Mr. Bill Dalpe, and Garrett Hollcomb. In November, we spent the day at Camp Buxton here in Rehoboth and worked on our outdoor cooking skills. Shout out to Trevor M. who made monkey bread in a Dutch oven over the fire! And most recently in December, we worked on hiking and spent a cold and rainy half-day hiking 7.5 miles in the Blue Hills Reservation in Milton and Quincy, M.A. Overall, we have worked hard making the best of 2020.

We look forward to what 2021 will bring. Troop 12 is excited to learn new skills and challenges that are planned for 2021 including carpentry, winter sports, paddle sports, and many more. Hopefully we can get back to camping soon. We are also looking forward to our continued growth in the Troop with new Scouts from Cub Scout Pack 1 Rehoboth crossing over in February.

Want to join our amazing Troop? Contact us via Facebook, or email Troop13rehoboth@gmail.com

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January 2021 The Reporter

29

People In The News The Sean M. Gannon Memorial Fund Awards Inaugural Police Academy Scholarship to Stephanie Connolly of Rehoboth The Sean M. Gannon Memorial Fund of The Cape Cod Foundation awarded its inaugural Police Academy Scholarship to Stephanie Connolly of Rehoboth.

To prepare for a career in law enforcement, Connolly earned her associate degree in criminal justice from Bristol Community College and served as a Reserve Officer with the Rehoboth Police Department for two years while working as a Campus Police Officer for her alma mater at the same time. She is currently employed as a dispatcher for Stephanie Connolly the Acushnet Police Department and plans to enter the third class of the Cape Cod Municipal Police Academy in January at Joint Base Cape Cod. The memorial fund was created by Sgt. Gannon’s family to honor the Yarmouth Police Department K9 Officer who was killed in the line of duty on April 12, 2018. Its mission is to promote education, health, and leadership by encouraging service through action.

The K9 Sgt. Gannon Self-Sponsor Scholarship covers tuition for a recruit to attend the Cape Cod Municipal Police Academy.

“Embarking on this career path is a big challenge and a big commitment,” said Dara Gannon, the officer’s wife. “We wanted to help reduce financial barriers to enter the field.”

The Academy takes 20 weeks to complete and covers 21st century policing best practices with specific emphasis on the following core principles: problem solving; procedural justice; ethical decision making; fair and impartial policing.

“Being a self-sponsored Academy recruit allows an individual the opportunity to have a seat in the class without being previously hired by a Municipal Police Department,” said Peter Carnes, Director of the Cape Cod Municipal Police Academy. “Upon graduation recruits are certified and their potential for employment is certainly enhanced.”

“We received many strong applications, and it was difficult to choose just one recipient,” Gannon said. “Ms. Connolly will honor Sean’s legacy and be a great asset to a police department and her community in the future.”

She added, “The scholarship gives me hope that even in these trying times there are many dedicated people answering the call for public service.”

“There are no words to describe how honored and humbled I am to be the recipient of this scholarship,” Connolly said. “I have been pursuing a career in law enforcement my entire adult life and have faced many adversities and obstacles along the way. The opportunity that this scholarship affords me is priceless. I am so thankful to the Scholarship Committee and the Gannon family for selecting me as the recipient.”

The fund plans to award the scholarship annually and continues to award grants to support nonprofit organizations and programs that meet its mission.

For more information about the memorial fund, visit: www.gannonfund.org. For more information about The Cape Cod Foundation, visit www.capecodfoundation.org. The Foundation is located at 261 Whites Path, Unit 2; South Yarmouth, MA 02664.

Dr. Steven A. Sears of Seekonk Promoted to President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students at Providence College Providence, Rhode Island December 15, 2020 – Providence College (PC) has announced the promotion of Dr. Steven A. Sears to the position of vice president for student affairs and dean of students. Dr. Sears has served as interim vice president since July 1 of this year. Previously, he was associate vice president and dean of students. The College has redefined the vice president’s position to include responsibilities as both vice president for the Student Affairs Division, as well as servDr. Steven A. Sears ing as dean of students.

Since joining the PC staff in 1998 as associate director for housing and discipline, Dr. Sears has served the College in a number of key administrative positions, including as dean of residence life (2005-2010); dean of students (2010-2011); interim vice president for student affairs (2011-2012); and associate vice president for student affairs/dean of students (2012 – June 2020).

“Throughout his tenure, Dr. Sears has demonstrated his unwavering commitment to our students and their well-being. He has been invaluable in his efforts to promote diversity and inclusion, and was instrumental in the creation of the Balfour Office of Multicultural Student Activities, which engaged students and student leaders in diversity awareness and cultural immersion through innovative training and program offerings,” said PC President Rev. Kenneth R. Sicard, O.P. A U.S. Air Force veteran, Dr. Sears also serves as a co-chair of PC’s Continuity Task Force (CTF) which has been responsible for the development of an overarching plan and accompanying recommendations for the College’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. During this unprecedented time, Dr. Sears’ leadership skills, compassionate care for students, and collaborative approach to problem solving have been demonstrated on a 24/7 basis.

Dr. Sears holds a doctorate in higher education from NOVA Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FLA; a Master of Business Administration degree from Salve Regina University, Newport, RI; and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Science from Roger Williams University. A native of Bristol, RI, he and his family now reside in Seekonk, MA.

30

The Reporter January 2021

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

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Bundle Up and Discover the Beauty of Nature in Winter…

It’s the Safest Place to Be!

Join the Audubon experts and search for animal tracks in the snow, join a winter beach walk, or head out in the evening on an Owl Prowl! Nature is simply beautiful in winter…and one of the safest places to be!

Rhode Island COVID-19 safety guidelines will be followed for all programs. Small groups are led by Audubon naturalists. Family units are encouraged to participate together. Masks and social distancing are required. Participants must bring their own masks.

Advance registration is required. Visit the events calendar at www. asri.org for safety guidelines and to register.

Audubon Private Birding and Natural History Tours

Let an Audubon guide take your group of up to four people on a private two-hour natural history or birdwatching tour in Southeastern New England. Tours will be designed with ages and interests in mind. Visit asri.org/private-nature-tours or contact Lauren Parmelee at lparmelee@ asri.org or call 401-949-5454 ext. 3111 for details.

Wednesday Morning Bird Walks Locations Across Rhode Island

Audubon offers small-group Wednesday Morning Bird Walks with naturalist Laura Carberry. Each week a new birding destination will be chosen. Face masks and social distancing are required.

Participants must bring their own masks. Advance registration is required. Location will be sent to registered participants in advance.

Locations determined weekly; Every Wednesday through June 2021; 9:00-11:00 am; Fee: $5/member, $10/non-member. Ages: 14+. Register through the events calendar at asri.org.

Winter Beach Walk with Audubon

Moonstone Beach, South Kingstown, RI January 13, 2021; 1:30 – 3:30 pm

Join naturalist Bob Kenney for a mid-day winter walk along Moonstone Beach, without the summer crowds or closed piping plover nesting areas. Our visit is timed to the low tide at 2:20 pm, perfect for some leisurely beach combing and bird watching. Even though Moonstone is known as a “clothing optional” beach, the only option today is likely to be whether to wear three, four, or five layers. Bring your binoculars; we’ll have a spotting scope available.

Expect to walk one or two miles in soft sand. Face masks and social distancing are required. Participants must bring their own masks.

Advance registration is required. If there is inclement weather, the program will run on January 30, when the tide will be almost as low.

Moonstone Beach Road, South Kingstown, RI; Fee: $15/member; $20/non-member. Ages: Teen to Adult. Register through the events calendar at asri.org.

Animal Tracks and Signs with Audubon

Audubon Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge, Smithfield, RI January 16, 2021; 2:00 – 4:00 pm

Learn how to identify tracks and signs left by native mammals and birds. Explore track patterns, investigate artifacts, and try your hand at making plaster tracks to take home. Venture out on the trails to find evidence that wildlife has been there. Face masks and social

January 2021 The Reporter

31

distancing are required. Participants must bring their own masks.

Although all are welcome, this class will be geared for families with children. Wear warm footwear, and dress for the weather. Advance registration is required.

Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge, 12 Sanderson Road, Smithfield, RI; Fee: $10/member adult, $5/member child; $14/ non-member adult, $7/non-member child. Ages: 5 and up. Register through the events calendar at asri.org.

Owl Prowl at Fort Refuge

Audubon Fort Wildlife Refuge, North Smithfield, RI January 22, 2021; 7:00-9:00 pm

Visit Fort Refuge on a winter night to search for owls. An Audubon naturalist will call for different species as you walk through the forest. We never know if we’ll hear or see an owl, but participants will learn a lot and have a great night hike. Please dress for the weather, wear sturdy walking shoes and bring a flashlight. Face masks and social distancing are required. Participants must bring their own masks. Advance registration is required.

Fort Nature Refuge, (Rt. 5), 1443 Providence Pike, North Smithfield, RI; Fee: $10/member; $14/non-member. Ages: 12 and up.

Register through the events calendar at asri.org.

Owl Prowl at Fisherville Brook

Audubon Fisherville Brook Wildlife Refuge, Exeter, RI January 22, 2021; 7:00 – 9:00 pm

Head out on the trails for an evening of fun learning about the owls of Rhode Island. Start with a presentation on these amazing creatures and visit with one of Audubon’s live owls. Then walk the evening trails in search of these intriguing birds in their natural setting. Dress warmly and bring a flashlight. Meet in the Nature Center.

Fisherville Brook Wildlife Refuge, 99 Pardon Joslin Road, Exeter, RI; Fee: $10/member adult, $5/member child; $14/non-member adult, $7/non-member child. Ages: 7 and up. Register through the events calendar at asri.org.

Owls and Ales - Two Dates Offered

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, Bristol, RI January 23, February 27, 2021; 6:30 – 8:30 pm

Meet some of Audubon’s amazing owls in person! Come to the Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium for a presentation on these fascinating birds of prey, while enjoying locally brewed beers. Then take a guided walk through the refuge at night to look and listen for owls and other signs of animal life. Leave the kids at home – this program is just for adults! Come prepared to go outside on a chilly evening. Face masks and social distancing are required. Participants must bring their own masks. Advance registration is required.

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, 1401 Hope Street, Bristol, RI; Fee: $30/member; $35/non-member. Ages: 21 and up.

Register through the events calendar at asri.org.

Muskrat, Otter and More!

Audubon Caratunk Wildlife Refuge, Seekonk, MA January 24, 2021; 7:00 - 9:00 pm

Take a hike to Muskrat Pond at the Caratunk Wildlife Refuge to look for resident muskrat and otter, and any other winter animals we may see! During the hike you will learn about these fascinating creatures and how to identify them in the wild. Face masks and social distancing are required. Participants must bring their own masks. Advance registration is required. Wear sturdy boots and dress for the weather.

Caratunk Wildlife Refuge, 301 Brown Avenue, Seekonk, MA; Fee: $10/member adult, $5/member child; $14/non-member adult, $7/non-member child. Ages: 10 and up. Register through the events calendar at asri.org. continued on next page...

Barred Owl photo credit Peter Ryan.

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The Reporter January 2021

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Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, Bristol, RI January 16, 2021; 11:00 – 12:30 pm

Come design and create a beautiful pendant with sea glass found on local beaches. Learn how to choose the right piece of glass and transform it using quick and easy wire wrapping techniques. Program includes all materials. Find something special on the beach? Bring that too! Face masks and social distancing are required. Participants must bring their own masks. Advance registration is required as space is limited.

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, 1401 Hope Street, Bristol, RI; Fee: $20/member; $25/non-member. Ages: Adult. Register through the events calendar at asri.org.

Introduction to Animal Tracking with Audubon Audubon Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge, Smithfield, RI January 16, 2021; 10:00 am – 12:30 pm

Join us for an introduction to identifying local mammal tracks and other animal signs. We’ll start inside with a presentation, go over track patterns, terms and track models and then take a short hike on the trails to see what kinds of tracks and signs can be found.

This class will be geared for an adult audience. Face masks and social distancing are required. Participants must bring their own masks. Advance registration is required. Please dress warmly.

Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge, 12 Sanderson Road, Smithfield, RI; Fee: $10/member; $14/non-member. Ages: Adult.

Register through the events calendar at asri.org.

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Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, Bristol, RI January 21, 28, February 4, 11, 2021; 10:00 – 10:45 a.m.

This popular program introduces children ages 18 months to 2 years to the delights of nature through age-appropriate, handson activities. Along with a nature lesson, activities may include nature walks, crafts, songs and stories. This is also a wonderful opportunity to make new friends with the other children and parents.

Registration is required as space is limited and fills very quickly.

Adults must accompany children and there are no refunds for missed classes. In order to maintain an age-appropriate program we ask that older siblings not accompany the parent/child team.

Face masks for adults and social distancing are required. Participants must bring their own masks. Advance registration is required.

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, 1401 Hope Street, Bristol, RI; Fee: $40/member child, $50/two member siblings; $45/ non-member child, $55/two non-member siblings. Age: 18 to 36 months. Register through the events calendar at asri.org.

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Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, Bristol, RI January 23, 2021; 2:00 – 3:30 pm

Join fiber artist Tala Wunderler-Selby and learn how to make owls from wool. Participants will sculpt their own owls using the technique of needle felting, which involves using a notched needle to “stab” fluffy, colorful wool until it becomes solid. This class is for beginners – no felting experience or artistic skills necessary!

Make something special to give as a gift, or to keep for yourself.

All materials will be provided. Face masks and social distancing are required. Participants must bring their own masks. Advance registration is required.

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, 1401 Hope Street, Bristol, RI; Fee: $25/member; $30/non-member. Ages: Teen to Adult.

Register through the events calendar at asri.org.

January 2021 The Reporter

Stories in the Stars

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, Bristol, RI January 29, 2020; 7:00 - 8:00 pm

Bring the family and join an Audubon naturalist to discover the legends of the night sky. Begin inside with a brief overview of astronomy and what stars and constellations are visible this time of year. Listen to some stories from different cultures explaining why the stars and the night sky look the way they do. End the evening by stepping outside to view stars and constellations. A take-home hot cocoa kit will be provided. Face masks and social distancing are required. Participants must bring their own masks. Advance registration is required.

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, 1401 Hope Street, Bristol, RI; Fee: $8/member adult, $4/member child; $12/non-member adult, $6/non-member child. Age: 6+. Register through the events calendar at asri.org.

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Valentine Card Workshop

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, Bristol, RI January 30, 2020; 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

Everyone loves getting happy mail! Make someone’s day with a beautiful handmade card for Valentine’s Day. Create four cards using a variety of design techniques. Regardless of your skill level, join the fun for a couple hours of creativity. Come alone or with a friend to de-stress, learn a new hobby or re-kindle an old one. Face masks and social distancing are required. Participants must bring their own masks. Advance registration is required.

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, 1401 Hope Street, Bristol, RI; Fee: $15/members, $20/non-members. Age: 10+. Register through the events calendar at asri.org.

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Snowshoe Caratunk!

Audubon Caratunk Wildlife Refuge, Seekonk, MA January 31, 2021; 8:00 - 10:00 am

Caratunk Wildlife Refuge is a great place to snowshoe. Get some exercise while you enjoy the outdoors and learn about its historic land use. If there isn’t any snow we will hike the trails. Face masks and social distancing are required. Participants must bring their own masks. Advance registration is required. Bring your own snowshoes and dress for the weather.

Caratunk Wildlife Refuge, 301 Brown Avenue, Seekonk, MA; Fee: $10/member; $14/non-member. Ages: 12 and up. Register through the events calendar at asri.org.

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Dewire@dem.ri.gov or 401-683-1478. Due to a limited availability, it is recommended to book this program well in advance. Ages: All. Narragansett Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, Prudence Island, RI; Fee*: Half Day: $8/member adult, $5/member child; $10/non-member adult, $7/non-member child Full Day: $12/member adult, $8/member child; $15/non-member adult, $10 non-member child *Cost does not include round-trip ferry travel ($11/person ages 12-adult and $5/person for children).

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The Reporter January 2021

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By Christy Wright I love this time of year. The holidays are my absolute favorite, but not just because of the lights and food and family time. I also love that we have the opportunity to reflect on where we’ve been and decide where we want to go. And if we’re being honest, we all need a fresh start after the craziness of 2020.

Progress isn’t going to appear out of thin air, which is why I love teaching people the habit and skill of setting goals. Here are four steps that will help you make real life-change in 2021:

Decide what you want

Before you make those workout plans or sign up for that conference, the most important thing for you to do is answer one simple question: What do you want in 2021? (Notice I said simple—not easy. In fact, this is one of the hardest questions we’ll ever answer.)

You have to decide what you want, because if you never define your finish line, you’ll never cross it. Or worse, you’ll chase someone else’s version of success. This isn’t about what your mom wants you to do or what those influencers on Instagram tell you to do. This is about you deciding what you want to do this year.

Set goals around what you want

Once you know what you want, you can set goals in the areas where you want to grow—whether that’s your marriage, kids, fitness, health, business, career, faith or community. Your goals should be specific, measurable and have a time limit. For example, if you want to become a long-distance runner this year, you might set a goal to run a half marathon (specific and measurable) by the end of the year (December 31, 2021).

Create a plan

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Once you’ve set your goals, break them down into weekly steps. As you do this, you’ll begin to create a path to get to where you want to be.

Let’s say you want a better marriage. A specific action you can take is to have date night every week or plan a weekend away every few months. If you want to take on more responsibility at work, ask someone in your field to mentor you or sign up for a class or conference that will help you sharpen your skills. Give yourself specific actions to take and deadlines to back them up!

Put it on the calendar

Now that you’ve set your goals and created your plan, you have to put it all on the calendar. You and I both know that if something isn’t on the calendar, it’s not going to happen. If you put your goals on paper, on purpose, as a priority, you’re much more likely to achieve them.

Remember, you’re looking at a fresh start and a clean slate.

You can make 2021 anything you want it to be!

About Christy Wright Christy Wright is a #1 national best-selling author, personal development expert, and host of The Christy Wright Show. She’s been featured on Today Show and Fox News, and in Entrepreneur and Woman’s Day Magazines. Since 2009, Christy has served at Ramsey Solutions, where she teaches on personal development, business, and faith. Follow Christy on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube or online at christywright.com.

January 2021 The Reporter

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in 2021 How to Fund Your Dreams in 2021

By Rachel Cruze We all had big dreams as little kids. Maybe your dream was to be an astronaut, a musician, or even a mermaid! But when you got a little older, and a little wiser, real life set in and you realized—for one reason or another—that wasn’t going to happen.

Adults have dreams, too. Maybe you’re dreaming of going back to school to pursue that degree and job you’re passionate about.

Or perhaps you really want to get out of the suburbs, and live on a big piece of land. Maybe you just want to have enough cash to comfortably take your family on a nice vacation each year.

Dreams are crucial to your financial life, because they help you see what you value and motivate you to save for the long haul. If you aren’t actively saving, it’s a warning sign you’re disconnected from your dreams. If you’re unfocused—saving a little here and there—you need to tap into your dreams to see real progress with your money. When you really, truly want something, no one can stop you from saving for it and working hard to make it happen.

So, what’s stopping you?

I see two types of dream-killers all the time: the daily grind and the naysayers. Let’s start with the daily grind. We all go through seasons when we get stuck in the same ol’, same ol’ routine of our busy lives. We let time get away from us and before we know it, two years have passed, and we aren’t any closer to our dreams.

The daily grind and its busy pace can be a distraction from your big picture. Don’t let this happen to you! You don’t want to look up in two years—or even worse, 10 years—and realize you haven’t been saving.

And oh, the naysayers. Even if we’re staying focused on the big picture, many of us are told our dreams aren’t possible. It could come from a parent, teacher, friend, or just someone we look up to. They usually mean well, but their words can stop us dead in our tracks. We want to save, take a risk, and try something new.

Still, the doubts of others can destroy our courage to keep going.

But your dreams are too important. When we dream, we’re digging into our very purpose for living. Be alert, stay focused, and ignore the naysayers. There’s too much at stake to take them seriously.

I know money can be a speed bump on the path to achieving your dreams, but it doesn’t have to be. I can’t make you a mermaid, but I can promise that you have the power to use your dream to fuel your savings account—and to use your savings account to fund your dreams. It’s up to you. If you want to unlock the secret to staying motivated throughout your entire money journey, check out my article on understanding your money mindset.

Rachel Cruze is a two-time #1 national best-selling author, financial expert and host of The Rachel Cruze Show. She has appeared on Good Morning America, TODAY Show and Live! With Kelly & Ryan, among others. Since 2010, Rachel has served at Ramsey Solutions, where she teaches people to avoid debt, save money, budget and how to win with money at any stage in life.

Follow Rachel on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube or online at rachelcruze.com.

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The Reporter January 2021

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January 2021 The Reporter

37

Healthy Living Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is characterized as a type of depression that is related to changes in seasons, typically tied to the start of fall and persisting into the winter months. We know that depressive disorders do not take holidays and this time of year can be stressful. For individuals who suffer from or are at risk for depression, though, the impact of holiday stresses and pressures can be much more severe than the momentary frustrations that almost everyone experiences. Typical symptoms of SAD, sometimes referred to as winter depression, may include the following (Mayo Clinic): • Feeling depressed most of the day, nearly every day • A lack of energy • Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed • Feeling sluggish or agitated • Oversleeping or having problems with sleeping • Social withdrawal • Feeling hopeless, worthless or guilty • Substance abuse Recently, more people are willing to engage in more meaningful conversations regarding mental health, but that has not always been the case. Many of the same symptoms listed above are commonly associated with warning signs of suicidal thoughts or behavior, the second leading cause of death for ages 10 – 24 in Massachusetts. The Jason Foundation, a nationally recognized leader in youth suicide awareness and prevention, has developed a program designed to help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues and suicide. #IWONTBESILENT is an awareness campaign to raise the conversation on suicide prevention and mental illness, allowing open conversation regarding these serious subjects. Visit www.iwontbesilent.com to learn how you can become involved and make a difference within your community.

Creating an environment where people of all ages feel comfortable to talk about their struggles is an important step in preventing unnecessary tragedies.

Contrary to a prevalent myth, suicide rates do not peak during the holiday season. However, depressed individuals are hardly immune from either depressive episodes or suicidal ideation during this time. If you or someone you love is struggling with depression and/or thinking about suicide, get help now. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-TALK (8255), is a free resource that is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for anyone who is in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.

How Your Family Can Adopt Healthier Digital Habits in 2021

(StatePoint) As we head into 2021, adults and kids alike may still be enjoying the excitement of digital devices received as gifts over the holidays. However, the new year is always a great time for a reset, so alongside those new devices, consider adopting some new digital habits.

Here are some great ideas for helping your family build healthier relationships with their digital devices: • Get healthy: Not all screen time is wasted time. You can use your device in positive, productive ways that help your family work toward improved physical health. For example, a steps counter might encourage your family to move more or even take up running, while a yoga app can help guide your family through quick routines you can practice from the comfort of home.

• Get smart: Likewise, the members of your family can use their devices to exercise their minds. Encourage everyone to let their smartphones and tablets double function as ereaders, and to download apps that teach new skills and build knowledge. You can even try setting a goal as a family, such as learning a new language using the same app.

• Schedule digital downtime: Too much screen time is associated with poor quality sleep, increased anxiety and a range of other physical and mental health concerns, so be sure each day includes digital downtime. This is especially important if your family is working and learning from home right now. Make the most of these screen-free blocks by engaging in active play, moving, getting fresh air or spending quality time together. continued on next page...

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The Reporter January 2021

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• Get assistance: Making sure every member of the family is using their device only in safe and healthy ways is easier said than done, however, a parental guidance app can help. Using OurPact for example, the most comprehensive parental control app, you can remotely establish automated schedules for when internet, apps and the device itself are unavailable.

Features include URL whitelisting and blacklisting, daily screen time allowances and iMessage/SMS blocking, helping ensure device usage passes your approval. Available at the iOS App Store and Google Play Store, parents can also sign up for an account at www.ourpact.com.

For better overall health and wellness, make 2021 the year your family adopts great digital habits.

Quit Smoking or Using Other Tobacco for the New Year

With the New Year approaching, and the COVID-19 pandemic making it ever more important to stay healthy, you may want to make a resolution for a healthier life for you and your family.

If you want to quit smoking or using other tobacco products and tried in the past, don’t give up. Many users say quitting is the hardest thing they’ve done. Help is available, so keep trying!

The Massachusetts Smokers’ Helpline at 1-800-QUIT NOW (1-800-784-8669) is available for free coaching 24 hours each day, seven days a week (except Christmas) to support you through quitting. In addition, now you can enroll online through makesmokinghistory.org. Online supports include quit planning tools, peer support and motivational text messages. Also, new this year, the Massachusetts Smokers’ Helpline is offering up to $50 in gift cards to Massachusetts residents who use menthol tobacco products and participate in coaching services!

For more information, visit makesmokinghistory.org or contact Morissa Vital at mvital@sevenhills.org, 774-634-3955, or Facebook. com/SETFCP. Make the choice to quit today, making the holidays and New Year tobacco free.

Feeling A Cold Coming On? Do These 3 Things Right Now

(BPT) - Colds can make you feel run down and miserable. The last thing you want is the coughs, the sneezes and a run-down, foggy head feeling to hang on for weeks on end.

So, that begs the question: What can you do to get through this bug as quickly as possible?

“Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for the common cold but there are some things you can do to line up your body’s natural defenses when you first start noticing symptoms,” says Dr. Jake Deutsch M.D., Founder and Clinical Director of Cure Urgent Care in New York City.

What that means is taking action immediately. If you’re feeling sniffly or have a tickle in your throat, it’s time to put a quick plan into motion. Here’s the recipe for relief: 1. Make a date with your pillow: Sleep lets your body rest and heal. Not getting seven to eight hours of shut-eye every night makes you more susceptible to catching a virus. Plus it can prolong your recovery time, according to the Mayo Clinic. When you feel a bug coming on, try an earlier bedtime to make sure you’re getting the extra rest you need. And if you feel sleepy and run-down during the day, that’s your body telling you to take a break. Give yourself permission for a quick nap, if your schedule allows.

2. Drink plenty of water: During a cold, your body will need more fluids; in fact, being sick puts you at risk of dehydration. To

January 2021 The Reporter

Living

39

hello 2021

make sure you’re getting enough, download an app that lets you track how many ounces you’re drinking a day. Think about keeping your favorite teas on hand too, as the hot liquid loosens congestion.

3. Get your dose of zinc: To shorten the duration of your cold, an effective product to try is Zicam® Cold Remedy RapidMelts®, available at Walmart. Its clinically proven homeopathic formula taps into the power of your body’s natural defenses to shorten colds. If you want to be better faster, take it at the first sign of a cold.

BONUS TIP ... Watch a funny movie: As you’ve probably heard, there’s a link between stress and depressed immune function. On the flip side, laughing triggers increased production of antibodies and T-cells that help fight off infection, according to research described in Science Daily. Streaming a comedy is the perfect pairing with a quiet, restful evening at home to get you on the road to recovery.

“Although it may seem simple, completing these easy steps are the most important things you can do to support your immune system,” says Dr. Deutsch. “Aside from rest and relaxation, the single most proactive thing you can do is to take Zicam at that very first hint of a cold to get better faster.”

To shorten your cold, adopt these healthy habits and turn to clinically proven Zicam® Cold Remedy. To learn more, visit zicam.com.

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Match Your Winter Skin Care Routine with Your Active Lifestyle (Family Features) Winter weather can pose some unique challenges to your skin, especially if you’re trying to maintain an active workout routine. Exposure to the elements while exercising outdoors can have a harsh impact on the skin. On the other hand, the humidity and constant running of heaters can also wreak havoc if the weather forces you to work out indoors.

“The winter season can be a challenge for those trying to maintain their workout Photo courtesy of Getty Images regimens, especially this year when many people are staying closer to home,” said Dr. Jeanine Downie, board-certified dermatologist and Medline Remedy consultant. “An outdoor workout is a great way to get some fresh air and burn calories, but it’s also important to nourish your skin before and after you’ve completed your workout.”

Just like establishing a good winter workout routine, there are some things you can do to keep your skin in shape all winter long. Use sunscreen any time you venture outdoors and dress for whatever elements you may be facing. Be sure to remove wet clothes, which can create friction and skin irritation, immediately after returning inside. Limit the length of hot showers, which can also dry out skin, and use a quality moisturizer, especially after exposure to harsh weather.

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The Reporter January 2021

Healthy Living dry skin. Whether you’re battling rough skin or simply want to help keep your skin hydrated, a clinically tested lotion can help maintain the skin’s natural defenses. After spending time outside and every time you wash your hands or bathe, help retain moisture for up to 24 hours with an option like Remedy Dermatology Series Body Lotion, which includes safflower oleosomes for lasting moisturization with natural oils. Its smooth, rich formula absorbs quickly, leaving skin feeling soft with no greasy or oily residue.

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Repeated exposure to the winter elements can take a toll, leading to dry, cracked and dehydrated skin. A quality lotion that matches your skin type can help. Formulated by skin care specialists for dry, dehydrated skin, Remedy Dermatology Hand & Body Moisturizing Cream contains soothing antioxidants and vitamins that support skin nutrition. The fragrance-free, hypoallergenic cream goes on rich and thick but still absorbs readily into the skin to help it stay hydrated. The proprietary botanical blend of humectants, manuka honey, natural oil emollients, ceramides and botanical nutrition is also free of 80 of the most common allergens that contribute to skin sensitivity.

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A Novel Early Detection Blood Test Could Change How Cancer Is Found

(BPT) - Everyone has been touched by cancer in some way, whether it’s a friend or family member facing a diagnosis, or their own worry about susceptibility to the disease. This year alone, roughly 1.8 million people will be diagnosed with cancer in the United States, according to the National Cancer Institute. Nearly 1,700 lives are lost to cancer every day.

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Despite numerous advances in oncology - the field of medicine that treats cancer - cancer is the second-leading cause of death in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and is projected to become the first. That’s in large part because most cancers go undetected until it is too late because there is no early screening available today for the majority of deadly cancers. The current guideline-recommended screenings in the U.S., while critical, test for just five cancers and screen for a single cancer at a time. In fact, cancers without available screening tests account for 71% of all cancer deaths in the U.S. The importance of early detection Medical experts agree that early detection of cancer saves lives and directly correlates with the ability to treat the disease successfully. Because screenings exist for only five types of cancer when there are more than 100 types in total, the most pressing unmet need in cancer early detection is to identify cancers for which there are no existing recommended screening tests.

“Late stage cancer detection is deadly,” says Joshua Ofman, MD, MSHS, chief medical officer and external affairs at GRAIL, a company whose mission is to detect cancer early, when it can be cured. “The five-year survival rate of a person diagnosed with cancer once it has already spread is just 21%, compared to an 89% survival rate of someone whose cancer is found in early stages.

There is a significant opportunity to reduce cancer deaths through early detection.”

Potentially game-changing technology expected in 2021 Fortunately, medical advances are poised to change how cancer can be detected in the near future. Researchers have been working hard on a single blood test capable of finding many cancers.

The novel multi-cancer early detection blood test, called Galleri, is developed by GRAIL and expected to be commercially available for the first time in 2021. In a clinical validation study, an earlier version of the test demonstrated the ability to detect more than 50 types of cancers - over 45 of which have no recommended screening today - including at early stages, with a very low false positive rate of less than 1%. When a cancer signal is detected, Galleri is able to determine where in the body the cancer signal is located with high accuracy.

“A simple blood test capable of detecting more than 50 types of cancer is a ground-breaking and potentially life-saving advancement that could have a tremendous human and economic benefit,” explains Minetta Liu, MD, research chair and professor, Department of Oncology, Mayo Clinic. “Recent modeling data suggests if all cancers currently diagnosed at stage IV could be detected earlier, evenly distributed across stages I-III, cancer deaths could fall by 24%.”

A new era in early cancer detection “With the introduction of Galleri, we are approaching a longawaited and pivotal moment in cancer care, and we are dedicated to bringing this potentially life-saving technology into the hands of patients, providers, and communities,” Ofman says. “We are thrilled to be making a blood test that can detect multiple deadly cancers early a reality.”

Biomedical innovation is evolving, and this new breakthrough blood test has the potential to save many lives through early detection. To learn more about this technology, visit grail.com/galleri.

January 2021 The Reporter

41

News And Notes From Blanding Library Sine Plumbing & Heating

by Leslie Patterson

Library Temporarily Closed

"Quality Service Since 1945"

As of this writing in late December, Goff Hall, including the Blanding Library, is temporarily closed to visitors due to high positivity rates for COVID-19 in our area. In order to protect the health and safety of our community and reduce transmission of COVID-19, please pick up books and other library materials curbside. We also ask that you continue to return library items directly into the book drop instead of to staff members.

Meeting space in both the library and Goff Hall remains unavailable at this time. Our ongoing book sale in the hall is on hold for now as well. At this time, items requested from other libraries will still be delivered. You will receive notification of their arrival as usual, and you can call the library to arrange for pick-up. For updated information, check the library’s website or call 508-252-4236.

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Join Miss Joyce as her virtual Storytime Adventures continue through the winter months.

Call (401)434-6436 Also, a new winter-themed Take & Make craft will be available to pick up soon.

“Through Me to You” Puppetry with Newton will be back with new stories to tell and songs to sing. Put on your winter coat, hat and mittens to read Eileen Spinelli’s picture book “Now It Is Winter” page-by-page around our Story Walk outside the library, while enjoying the brisk winter weather.

Take note of NASA’s website, nasa.gov, for some great winter sky happenings, from phases of the moon to the “great conjunction” of planets. Did you know if you have a library card, you can reserve the library’s telescope for a closer look at the winter night sky? Call the library for details.

All of these fun and free events are listed on the library’s website calendar and on the Facebook page. When parents/teachers aren’t able to visit the library in person, Blanding staff will be happy to select the materials you need and have them ready for check out.

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• Sir David Attenborough’s “A Life on Our Planet” is the companion volume to the recent series on Netflix. Sir David calls his book “My Witness Statement and a Vision for the Future” because he has been in a unique position to observe the natural world and to see how it is changing alarmingly for the worse over the past few decades. In this important book, the distinguished TV presenter also describes how we can reverse this destruction by what he calls “rewilding” the earth and its seas.

• Bill Bryson, popular author of “A Short History of Nearly Everything”, has a new book called “The Body: A Guide for Occupants”. This is not a diagnostic medical manual, but an informative guide to how our bodies work, told in Bryson’s unique and sometimes breezy style.

• On the fiction side, the many fans of Alice Hoffman’s magical realism will enjoy “Magic Lessons”. The author describes this as the “prequel” to her earlier book, “Practical Magic”.

You might also call it historical fantasy. It tells the story of Maria Owens, whose life takes her from Essex, England to Essex, Massachusetts by way of the Caribbean, back in the late 17th century. Maria’s special powers and healing herbs draw attention in Salem, where it is a very bad time to be called a witch.

• Admirers of the late poet Mary Oliver will be pleased to find a new collection of her poems called “Devotions.”

For more information on library hours, curbside pickup or any other questions, you can visit our Facebook page or www.blandinglibrary.net or phone 508-252-4236. Thanks for your patience and cooperation at this difficult time.

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42

The Reporter January 2021

Seekonk Public Library Learn Beginner Chinese Calligraphy Saturday, January 9 at 1 PM

Chinese calligraphy is one of the most traditional art forms in the world, truly representative of eastern art and culture. Join artist Jojo Liu for this virtual beginner Chinese calligraphy class. Jojo will teach traditional Chinese calligraphy basics, including how to hold a brush, write basic strokes, and write strokes while standing. Materials will be available for pickup at the library beginning January 4 for registered participants.

Register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org to receive the login information the week of program. Space is limited; registration with a SAILS library card is required.

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

Learn Which DNA Test Is Best for You Wednesday, January 13 at 6 PM

Learning more about your ancestry and connecting with relatives using DNA technology sounds like a great idea, but how do you begin? Learn more in the virtual program DNA Basics: Which Test & Why. In this one-hour program professional genealogist Dave Robison will explain the different types of DNA tests and the specific purpose for each one. We’ll try to answer the question: “Which test should I take and from whom?” It all depends on your

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motivation whether it’s “cousin searching,” “more complete family genealogy,” “health concerns,” and others. This program is free and open to the public. Register in the Events Calendar at www. seekonkpl.org to receive an email with the login information.

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

Online Book Discussion: I Remember Nothing

by Nora Ephron

Tuesday, January 19, 2021 at 6:00 pm

Join us for a lively discussion of I Remember Nothing: And Other Reflections by Nora Ephron through Zoom. Register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org to receive an invitation to the Zoom call approximately one hour before the start time. The title is available digitally through Overdrive, or you may pick up a print copy at the library.

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

Virtual Teen/Adult Dance Class: Bollywood Funk!

Tuesday, January 26, 2021 at 6:00 PM

Looking to learn a new skill in 2021? Curious about the Bollywood dance style popular in India? We have just the thing: Bollywood Funk! This class will develop your foundation by teaching rhythm, coordination and strength in a fun and interactive way.

You will develop vocabulary for Bollywood dance while learning to understand basic footwork, grooves, rhythm patterns and hand gestures. This class will definitely build your coordination and stamina!

Born and brought up in India, instructor Chavi Bansal started dancing professionally with Bollywood choreographer Ashley Lobo and his company “The Danceworx” in 2003. With the company she performed in international film festivals and the repertories from his Bollywood movies including “Dhoom”. Her curiosity to study dance lead her to earn her BFA in Modern dance and choreography from The Netherlands. Currently Chavi teaches a lot of Bollywood and Modern dance classes around Boston. Her work in modern dance has been supported by Boston Foundation, New England foundations for the arts, Mass cultural council, Cambridge Arts council.

This class is great for ages 11 through adult.

Please register online in order to receive a Zoom invitation for the program.

For information, visit seekonkpl.org, email agreil@seekonkpl. org, or call the library at 508-336-8230 x56141.

Artisan Bread in Five Minutes Free Online Class

With just four ingredients and five minutes a day, you can have a fresh loaf of bread everyday for four days! Learn how in the virtual program Artisan Bread in 5 Minutes a Day from Seekonk Public Library on Thursday, January 28 at 6 PM. Chef and author Liz Barbour will teach you how to bake a no-knead, five-minute bread – even if you’ve never baked bread before. This seventy five-minute program will focus on the “Master Recipe” from the best-selling cookbook “Artisan Bread in Five Minutes a Day.” You

January 2021 The Reporter will learn how to make one batch of dough and bake a fresh loaf of bread everyday for four days. This program is free, but space is limited; Registration information is in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org.

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

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Seekonk Library Returns to Curbside and Remote Services

Due to recent escalations in COVID-19 positivity rates, Seekonk Public Library has returned to curbside and remote services only, and will be closed to the public until further notice. Staff remain on site to provide curbside service.

Here’s what to expect during this time: • Library staff will be available during normal business hours to answer any questions via phone, email, or social media.

• Please continue to request items via our online catalog. Once you are notified that an item is available, please schedule a curbside pickup by phone, or electronically via our online events calendar. Select a day, then time, that is convenient for you.

Please note that curbside pickup will be suspended during inclement weather or icy conditions.

• Library WiFi will remain on and accessible from the parking lot; tablets and chromebooks will be available for check out.

• Mobile printing will still be available - please follow the instructions from our website, and then schedule a curbside pickup of your print job.

• We regret that notary services and in-library public computer access will not be available during this time.

• We will continue to offer virtual library programming, and will keep you informed of changes in library services. We encourage you to follow us on social media, and visit our website for service updates.

Virtual Tween/Teen Programs at the Seekonk Public Library

The Seekonk Public Library presents the following virtual programs for students in grades 6-12.

*Teen Advisory Board

Thursday Jan 7, 2021 at 4:00 PM

The Teen Advisory Board is a group of committed volunteers who get together each month to chat, play games and plan upcoming library programs. An application is available on seekonkpl. org/teens.

*Teen Book Club

Thursday Jan 14, 2021 at 3:00 PM

Join our new teen book club and share great books with friends!

January’s title is We Were Liars by E. Lockhart. Copies will be available at the library.

*Teen Craft: Embroidered Bookmarks Thursday Jan 21, 2021 at 3:00 PM

Pick up a FREE craft kit at the library and then join our Zoom craft class. This month we’ll be making felt bookmarks and learning embroidery basics. Supplies are limited.

*Teen Activity: Online Boardgames Thursday Jan 28, 2021 at 3:00 PM

Get together on Zoom to play hilarious games from Jackbox Games. *RSVP online to reserve a space in this program. You will receive a Zoom invite the day of the program.

For information, visit seekonkpl.org/teens, email teens@ seekonkpl.org, or call the library at 508-336-8230 x56141.

43

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44

The Reporter January 2021

Programs for Children and Families

Please note that until further notice, the library is providing curbside pick up and online services only. Although the building is not open for browsing you may contact the library for assistance or with questions at (508) 336-8230 or childrens@seekonkpl.org

Winter Reading Challenge #WinterReads2021 Ongoing through February 28th

Elementary students (grades 1-5) who participate in our virtual Wild Winter Reading Adventure through the Beanstack platform will gain access to fun and engaging activities, a reading challenge, and the chance to earn virtual raffle tickets towards our grand prize!

Log 20 minutes a day to earn a completion certificate, while earning virtual raffle tickets for every hour you read!

YOU can help the Seekonk Public Library win 50 books courtesy of Simon & Schuster! The 10 libraries with the highest participation in this reading challenge will win 50 books for their collection. It’s time to show them what we’re made of, Seekonk! Register today at seekonkpl.org calendar of events.

The Lightning Thief Book Club

This book club will consist of read alouds by Miss Sandie, book discussions, film viewing, and supplemental activities. Not only do read alouds and book discussions foster a love for reading, research shows they also improve reading comprehension skills, grammar, pronunciation, and language structures. Space is limited.

Register at seekonkpl.org calendar of events.

Kids Make History: Kids Make Ink, STEAM Toy, Marbled Paper, Butter Saturdays, January 9, 16, 23 and/or 30 11-12 PM

Children ages 6 - 12 and their families will experience history through hands-on projects designed to bring the past alive. Some supplies will be provided by Seekonk Library and will be available for registrants to pick-up during the week prior to the program.

Register separately for one or all four programs. Zoom invite and link will be sent one hour before the start time of the program.

Registration required at seekonkpl.org calendar of events.

January 9: Make Ink. January 16: Make a Historic STEAM Toy. January 23: Make Marbled paper. January 30: Make Butter Brought to you by the Friends of Seekonk Library and the Old Colony History Museum in Taunton, Massachusetts.

Mondays, January 4, 11, & 25 6:30-7:30 PM

Join us for a book club and discussion group for grades 3 - 5!

We'll be reading and discussing Percy Jackson and the Olympians Book One: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan. Each registrant will receive a SPECIAL EDITION copy of the book to keep. We will meet virtually via Zoom three times in January, and participants will be expected to complete independent reading of the book in between meetings. We'll wrap up with a virtual stream viewing of the film!

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Mindfulness for Kids

Monday, January 11, 9:30-10:15 AM

Ages 3-6 with parent. The virtual class is designed to practice mindfulness with the children while modeling for the adults how to get children to become more aware and stay in the present moment. Mindfulness can help children increase their attention span, focus and concentration. It can also improve memory, social functioning, self-esteem and relationships with parents while reducing stress for all.

Sheryl White from Baby Kneads in Southbourough, MA is trained in baby development, American Sign Language, baby massage, mindfulness, and Reiki. She began teaching these classes in 1999. She has been highlighted in The Boston Globe, Massage Magazine, MetroWest Daily News and School Library Journal. Her late father-in-law and mentor/trainer was Dr. Burton White, leader in child development and author of the critically acclaimed book on infant and toddler development “The First Three Years of Life” This class will be held virtually via Zoom. Class size is limited and registration is required at seekonkpl.org calendar of events.

Red Cross Pillowcase Project Emergency Preparedness

Thursday, January 14, 6:30-7:30 PM

Our local American Red Cross chapter will be presenting The Pillowcase Project to 3rd - 5th grade students virtually via Zoom.

The project consists of a learn, practice, share framework to discuss preparedness concepts, skills, and information for locally prominent hazards as well as home fire prevention and safety skills. Each child will learn emergency preparedness skills as well as learn helpful coping skills for stressful situations. As part of the project, participants will 2 Burnside Ave. • Seekonk, MA 02771 • https://www.facebook.com/tmland/ receive a pillowcase designed to contain a personal emergency supplies kit, as well as a workbook which will help families prepare Tom Moreshead for emergencies. Registration required at Over 20 Years (508) 399-5399 seekonkpl.org calendar of events.

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January 2021 The Reporter

Storytime on the Go

Weeks of January 5, 12, 19, 26

Create a storytime experience at home with Storytime On The Go packets. Each packet will include 5-6 books and an age appropriate early literacy activity. The early literacy activities will support the five early literacy practices: talking, singing, reading, writing and playing.

Register separately for each week and we'll create a packet for your child. To arrange for curbside delivery, wait for an email stating that your packet is ready to be picked up then reserve a day and time through our website for pick up.

For more info contact Miss Sharon & Miss Sandie at childrens@ seekonkpl.org or call (508) 336-8230 x56140.

Babies and Books (Virtual via Zoom)

Phone / Fax (508) 252-5275 Phone (508) 252-5490

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Join Miss Sharon for a live, winter themed storytime for childrens ages 2 and under. There will be a snow story, finger plays, music, dancing, and yes, even bubbles! Everyone is invited to wear white (the color of snow). Older siblings are always welcomed to attend.

To receive the Zoom invite, registration required at seekonkpl.org calendar of events

Preschool Storytime (Virtual via Zoom) Wednesday, January 27, 2021 1:30PM

Join Miss Sandie for a live, winter themed storytime for children ages 2-5. Younger siblings are always welcomed to attend.

To receive the Zoom invite, registration required at seekonkpl.org calendar of events.

Take Your Child to the Library Day...virtually Saturday, February 6

Something for every age! Check seekonkpl.org calendar of events for descriptions of the day’s virtual programs.

1,000 Books Before Kindergarten - On-going

Families are invited to join the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program at Seekonk Public Library. This program encourages parents and caregivers to regularly read aloud to their young children which builds literacy skills and helps lay the foundation for school success. For more information, call the Youth Services Librarians, Sharon Clarke and Sandie Gauthier at (508) 336-8230 x56140, or visit seekonkpl.org/kids

We hope you enjoy receiving The Reporter every month!

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Family Binge Boxes

Get cozy on the couch with Seekonk Library's newest Binge Boxes. Check out a family oriented, binge-worthy box of 6-7 family and children's DVDs based on a variety of themes. Binge Boxes circulate for two weeks at a time.

About eBooks

Whether you’re looking for picture books, beginner readers, chapter books, or nonfiction books for your child, we have thousands of eBook titles to choose from. Available in eBook, audiobook and video formats. Browse our online collections at seekonkpl.org and scroll to the bottom of the home page for the links to OverDrive, Hoopla and Tumblebooks. You will need your SAILS library card to check books out. Don’t have a card? Contact us at childrens@ seekonkpl.org or (508) 336-8230 x56140

Personal Book Shoppers for Children’s Books

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

Call the library at 508-336-8230 or visit us online at Seekonkpl.org to discover your next stack of great children’s books!

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46

The Reporter January 2021

Dave Says Hope Can’t Be Taken from You Dear Dave, I lost my job a few days ago. We had an idea cuts were coming, but I thought it wouldn’t happen until well into the new year. My wife works, so that’s a good thing, and we’re both in our thirties.

Do you have any advice for how we should handle things during the Christmas season and until I’m working again?

—Brandon Dear Brandon, I’m really sorry to hear this. Losing your job around the holidays can feel like a nightmare.

But before you despair, remember this is also the season of hope. And hope can’t be taken from you. It can only be surrendered.

Keep your head held high, and focus on what’s still in your control.

First, cut back on your spending. When your income changes for the worse, eliminating all unnecessary spending is key. This is not the time to put Christmas on a credit card, or dip into retirement to cover holiday expenses. The last thing you should do right now is steal from your future to buy more stuff. Find some kind of seasonal work. Even if you’re packing boxes or stocking shelves, you’re contributing to your household and easing the stress. This side income will be a real blessing as you continue your career search.

Be open with your family, and what this change means. If there are kids in the picture, you and your wife should be in agreement on how you handle things where they’re concerned. Explain to them

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in an honest, loving way what has happened, and that Christmas will look a little different this year. A couple of inexpensive gifts may not be out of the question, but as harsh as it sounds, presents are not a priority right now. It may be uncomfortable or disappointing for everyone, but it can also offer a bonding opportunity and a valuable life lesson.

Keep a positive outlook, and stick to your normal routine as much as possible in the days ahead. Wake up early every morning, and make a list of things you will accomplish that day. Update your résumé, start networking, and begin submitting applications like that’s your new job. Work hard, stay hopeful, and focus on the goals ahead of you.

Refuse to give up, Brandon, and you will succeed. May God bless you and your family!

—Dave

Push the Pause Button

Dear Dave, I’ve been following your plan, but recently I experienced a medical emergency. I’m about halfway through Baby Step 2 and paying off my debts using the debt snowball system. Considering the circumstances, should I stop doing the debt snowball for now?

—Brooke Dear Brooke, That’s exactly what you should do. But make sure you’re only pressing the pause button on paying off debt. I’m talking about temporarily stopping the debt snowball, and making only minimum payments on all non-mortgage debt for now.

Cash is your umbrella when it rains, and you never know just long the rain will last. Even if you have great health insurance, you might end up paying a chunk out of pocket. That’s why it’s important to save up and have plenty on hand.

Things like this are often just a bump in the road, so don’t get discouraged. They can be expensive, and they’re part of life, but taking care of these kinds of issues doesn’t have to mean giving up on getting control of your finances. Emergency issues, especially a medical emergency, come first. Then, go back when things are better and pick up where you left off knocking out debt using the debt snowball system.

You can do this, Brooke. God bless you!

—Dave

You’re Just Not Ready

Dear Dave, My husband and I just bought a small business with cash. My sister let us live with her while we saved up the money for it, but things are starting to get a little cramped for everyone. The other day, my sister offered to co-sign on a house for us. Do you think this is a good idea?

—Cari Dear Cari, Ok, so you just bought a business. I love your entrepreneurial spirit and the fact you saved up and paid for it with cash. But at this point, you don’t know if the business is going to be successful or not. On top of that, you told me you’d need a co-signer for a home.

If you need a co-signer for anything, it means you’re not financially ready for that purchase.

I know you don’t want to hear this, but you guys need to just forget about buying a house for a while. If I were in your shoes, I’d find a decent, inexpensive place to rent, and spend two or three years getting the business up and running. Pay off any debt you have, while saving as much money as you can in the process.

January 2021

The Reporter

47

I want you and your husband to have a nice house someday.

But right now, it would be a burden instead of a blessing.

—Dave

basis. When they realize changes need to be made, they start living intentionally, in writing, on paper, and on purpose!

—Dave

Only You Can Make It Happen

* Dave Ramsey is a seven-time #1 national best-selling author, personal finance expert, and host of The Dave Ramsey Show, heard by more than 16 million listeners each week. He has appeared on Good Morning America, CBS This Morning, Today Show, Fox News, CNN, Fox Business, and many more. Since 1992, Dave has helped people regain control of their money, build wealth and enhance their lives. He also serves as CEO for Ramsey Solutions.

Dear Dave, I’ve got so many things I want to address and change about my life, both personally and professionally, in the coming year. Do you have any advice or practices for helping people be successful and achieve their goals?

—Tim Dear Tim, Goals are dreams, but you can’t stop with just dreaming. Examining your goals inside and out, and by thoughtfully constructing small, achievable steps toward them is the key to creating change in your life. Remember, too, that it’s your responsibility—not someone else’s—to fix things in your life. If you’re waiting for someone or something else to make things better, you’re going to be disappointed.

When it comes to setting and achieving goals, be specific about what you want to achieve. Vague, unspecified ideas will only cause you to feel overwhelmed, and this will likely lead to you giving up.

Also, make your goals measurable. If you want to lose weight, don’t simply write down “lose weight” as a goal. How much weight do you want to lose? How many pounds would you have to lose per week in order to see the desired result in a specified amount of time?

This one may sound silly, but are the goals you have in mind your goals? If a spouse or friend sets goals for you, you’re probably not going to succeed. Creating a goal, and taking ownership of it, will give you more incentive to meet your goal. Setting a time frame will help you develop more realistic goals, too. And last, always put your goals in writing. Write them down, and review them often. This will provide you with added motivation to make your goals a reality.

Successful people examine and reassess their lives on a regular

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48

The Reporter January 2021

Seekonk Human Services Dates to Remember

• CLOSED - Monday January 18th for Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Activities • Zoom Trivia*: Tues at 1:30pm— 2:00pm • Chair Coffee Chat*: Wednesdays @ 1:30pm • Zoom BINGO!*: Thursdays at 1pm *Please contact the office to access BINGO cards *Note: Zoom activities can be done on a laptop, tablet, smart phone or by dialing in the specific number for that activity. If you would like to participate but don’t have a tablet, please call the Seekonk Public Li-

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brary at 508-336-8230. If you are interested in participating in a zoom activity call the office to sign up. If you have a registered email address please inform us so we can send you the log in information for the class! **Please contact the center to inquire about Chair Yoga & Tai Chi airing date and time.

A Season of Giving Message from Seekonk High School

The puzzle, game, and book drive for the Senior Center was a success! We collected nearly 200 activities to be distributed by the staff of the Senior Center to local residents who have been unable to enjoy in-person leisure activities since the Senior Center shutdown in March. Mackenzie Reilly, a junior, had been planning to volunteer at the Senior Center this year. Instead, as the next best thing, she helped facilitate the collection. Thank you to all who so generously donated. If you or anyone you know may benefit from having a puzzle, game, word search, or color by numbers, please contact the office at 508-336-8772.

Thank You

Seekonk Human Services would like to thank everyone who has donated to our organization to allow us to help our Town residents. With the help from all of you, we have been able to provide holiday meals and gifts to individuals and families, recreation for homebound seniors and emergency fuel assistance just to name a few. Your kindness and generosity has reached the hearts of many individuals through your donations.

Due to the continued support from the community, we are able to continue to assist those in need. Year after year, we receive continued support from local organizations and local individuals and families. In behalf of all the benefactors, thank you very much!

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Nutritional Meals To Go Tuesdays & Wednesdays

Seekonk Human Services will be working with Bristol Elder Services to provide nutritional meals for lunch on Tuesdays and Wednesdays 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. Payment is $2.25 per meal which will be due at the time of pickup.

Pick up will be between 11am— 12pm. If you are unable to pick up at that time or are experiencing financial hardship please reach out to the office to speak with the Outreach Department. Please call 508-336-8772 to hear November’s menu and to order!

Medicare Open Enrollment

Medicare open enrollment was from October 15—December 7 in which Medicare beneficiaries are able to change their Part D (drug coverage) or Medicare Advantage plan effective for January 1. In past years, we have been able to have one on one appointments with clients in the office.

Unfortunately, this year with COVID-19 and the seniors being higher risk we had to alter the way we would normally assist clients.

Human Services is fortunate enough to have so many understanding residents when we had to change how things have been done in the past. Our main priority is to keep the seniors safe as well as serve them. We were able to assist 265 clients during open enrollment via telephone and email. We want to thank all of the seniors who trusted us to help them with their Medicare needs this year. We look forward to helping you in 2021!

Fuel Assistance

If you had fuel assistance last year, be on the look-out for your application. File the application as soon as you get it. 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 begins November 1st. Income Guidelines: Maximum income for 1 person is $37,360, for 2 people is $48,855, for 3 people is $60,351, and for 4 people is $71,846.

Hearty Chili

• 1lb ground turkey or beef (browned) • 2 cans of kidney beans (rinsed) • 1 28oz can of tomato sauce • 2 peppers diced (sautéed) • 1 onion diced (sautéed) • 1tsp. Garlic • 1tsp. Chili Powder After ground turkey (beef) is browned and the peppers and onions are sautéed,

January 2021 everything can be put either in a crockpot (low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours) or simmer on the stove (45 minutes). Top with cheese and/or sour cream and enjoy!

Seekonk Veterans Services

Here is a brief overview of Massachusetts Law and Benefits that are available for Veterans: Property Tax Exemptions: Eligible veterans, spouses, and parents To qualify, all veterans (and spouses where applicable) must: • Be legal residents of Massachusetts.

• Be occupying the property as his/her domicile on July 1 in the year of application.

• Have lived in Massachusetts for at least six months prior to entering the service (spouses exempted) or, • Have lived in Massachusetts for five consecutive years immediately prior to filing for a property tax exemption.

In most cases a surviving spouse receives the exemption if he/she was receiving it before the veteran passed away. However, surviving spouses receiving exemption under Clauses 22 and 22D lose the exemption upon remarriage.

M.G.L. ch. 59, s.5, clause 22 Clause 22 allows for a $400.00 tax exemption for the following persons: • 10% (or more) service-connected disabled veteran; • Purple Heart recipient; • Gold Star mothers and fathers; • Spouse of veteran entitled under Clause 22; • Surviving spouses who do not remarry M.G.L. ch. 59, s.5, clause 22A Clause 22A allows for a tax exemption of $750.00 if the veteran meets the following: • Loss or loss of use of one hand above the wrist, or one foot above the ankle or one eye; • Congressional Medal of Honor; • Distinguished Service Cross; • Navy Cross or Air Force Cross.

M.G.L. ch. 59, s.5, clause 22B Clause 22B allows for tax exemption of $1,250.00 if the veteran meets the following: • Loss or loss of use of both hands or both feet; • Loss or loss of use of one hand and one foot as described above; • Loss or loss of use of both eyes (blind).

M.G.L. ch. 59, s.5, clause 22C Clause 22C allows for tax exemption of $1,500.00 if the veteran: • Is rated by the VA to be permanent and totally disabled and has specially adapted housing.

M.G.L. ch. 59, s.5, clause 22D Clause 22D is for surviving spouses (who do not remarry) of soldiers, sailors, or members of the Guard whose death occurred as a proximate result of an injury sustained or disease contracted in a combat zone, or who are missing in action with a presumptive finding of death, as a result of combat as members of the armed forces of the United States.

• Total exemption so long as the spouse does not remarry.

M.G.L. ch. 59, s.5, clause 22E Clause 22nd E allows for $1,000.00 for veterans that are 100% disabled by the VA. M.G.L. ch. 58, s.8A Paraplegic veterans, those with service-related injuries as determined by the VA, or their surviving spouses are eligible for total exemption on their property taxes.

For additional information about Massachusetts laws and benefits for Veterans, please contact Seekonk Veterans Services at (508)336-2940 or via email jlaflame@seekonk-ma.gov.

James LaFlame Veterans Services Officer

The Reporter

Study: Social Isolation Among Seniors Is Widespread, But These Resources Can Help

49

(BPT) - Because of the pandemic, we’ve all experienced social isolation - the loss of close contact with family and friends. We’re feeling that isolation even more acutely during the winter season, when we typically get together with those we love.

For older adults who have had to take extra isolating precautions against exposure to COVID-19, these losses have been magnified, and in many cases, they’re layered on top of longstanding disconnections.

With 36% of adults in America age 50 or older and 17% over 65, it’s reasonable to assume that social isolation is widespread. A recent survey of U.S. adults conducted by AARP Foundation and the United Health Foundation confirms it: The study found that two-thirds of respondents are experiencing social isolation, with nearly that number feeling more anxiety because of the pandemic. The consequences are disturbing.

“Social isolation has reached epidemic proportions during the pandemic,” says AARP Foundation President Lisa Marsh Ryerson.

“Decades of research on prolonged social isolation and loneliness show that it’s worse for health than obesity, and as damaging to health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.”

The survey also reveals that most isolated older adults are not asking others for assistance, perhaps because they don’t realize help is available.

If you or a loved one are experiencing social isolation, whether it’s COVID-related or a daily reality that was already present, here are some important facts to know based on the AARP Foundation/United Health Foundation survey - followed by tips that can help increase social connection.

Few have sought help about their feelings. Of those reporting social isolation during the pandemic, 50% say it has affected their motivation, 41% report greater anxiety and 37% have experienced feelings of depression. Yet only 11% have turned to medical professionals to help address these concerns, and nearly a third haven’t sought help from anyone.

Women are more susceptible than men. Women 50 and older are more than twice as likely as men to feel overwhelmed as a result of the pandemic. Forty-six percent of women in that age bracket have felt anxious (compared to 36% of men), and 50% have felt stressed (compared to 40% of men). Twenty-nine percent of women 50 or older have gone for as long as three months without interacting with others outside their homes or workplaces.

Low-income adults have seen greater impact. People 50 and older in income brackets of lower than $40,000 a year have been more affected by isolation than those with incomes of $75,000 or more. Forty percent of lower-income respondents report having trouble accessing various resources, 20% point to problems getting food and about 20% have struggled to secure health care services.

Steps you can take. AARP Foundation launched Connect2Affect to address the growing problem of social isolation. Connect2Affect offers helpful tools and resources. Here are some steps you can take to help yourself or a loved one combat social isolation: • More medical professionals are now attuned to the physical and emotional toll social isolation can take. Discuss with your primary care doctor how you’re feeling and that it might be related to social isolation.

• Connect2Affect lists health care, food assistance and other community services available to seniors.

• Request a supportive phone call from one of AARP’s Friendly Voice volunteers. This program is available free of charge, and you can arrange for ongoing check-in calls.

• If the holidays or winter season have made social isolation worse for you or a family member, take the 3-minute test on the Connect2Affect site to assess your level of connectedness, then check out some practical (and safe) tips for interacting with others.

• AARP Foundation offers free chatbots to the general public and in some senior living communities that can provide the comfort of daily conversation.

Social isolation can affect anyone. Find more helpful information at AARPFoundation.org.

50

The Reporter January 2021

Rehoboth Council on Aging A Municipal Department of the Town

55 Bay State Road, Rehoboth, MA 02769

Phone 508-252-3372 Fax 508-252-4716

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

Fridays 8:00 a.m. to 12 noon

The COA remains close until further notice to the public. Exceptions by appointment only. For pressing issues please call the Senior Center at 508-252-3372. Please note our new temporary address 183 Winthrop Street, Rehoboth, MA.

• The COA will be closed January 18th for Martin Luther King Day • Meals on Wheels is still being delivered by our volunteers.

• We are continuing to make masks for Seniors. Please call if you need one or two masks. We are in need of cotton fabric and elastic for masks. We are accepting yarn donations for hats. If you can donate, please call and we will set up a safe and secure drop off.

• We would like to thank Vino’s for preparing a delicious Christmas Dinner for our Meals on Wheels Seniors.

• Thank you to Joan, Babs, & Jim for delivering the meals.

• Thank you also to Gerry Schwall for taking this idea and making it happen again.

Thank you!!

Thank You

We would like to thank the Rehoboth American Legion Post 302 for immediately allowing us to accept and distribute Meals on Wheels from their kitchen.

Thank you!

Gert’s Café: Lunch is served at Gert’s Café Mondays at 12 Noon. $3.00 Donation Tuesday Lunch: Tuesdays from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM The COA Breakfast: Wednesdays from 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM Tasty Thursdays Lunch: Held on the last Thursday of the Month at 12 noon. Cost $3.00 donation.

Men’s Morning Coffee: Fridays 9:00 AM Card Games: Mondays at 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM - Cribbage Wednesdays at 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM Hi-Lo Jack Art Classes: Michelle’s Art Classes Wednesdays at 10:30. Cost $4.00 Donation Knitting and Crochet Group: Fridays at 10:00 AM

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Ladies Sewing and Quilting: Tuesdays at 10:30 AM. Blood Pressures & Glucose Screenings: Please contact the COA 508-252-3372 for more information.

Podiatry Clinic with Dr. Marian Markowitz: Please call 508-252-3372 to schedule your appointment.

Cardio Drums: Mondays @ 2:00 pm Tai Chi Classes: Tuesdays at 9:00 AM. Cost $3.00 Donation Line Dancing Classes: Tuesdays at 10:00 AM. Cost is $3.00 Donation

Kitchen hours: Monday – Thursdays 8:00AM to 12 noon

Chair Yoga: Thursdays at 9:00 Cost $3.00 Donation Zumba: Thursdays at 10:00 AM. Cost of $3.00 Donation Meals on Wheels: Please contact Bristol Elders, Inc. at (508) 675-2101 for information on the Meals on Wheels program.

Senior Citizens Club: 1st Thursday @ 12:30 & 3rd Thursday @ 12 Noon Friends of the Rehoboth Elderly meets at 10:30 AM on the 3rd Monday of the month.

Veteran’s Information and Benefits:

Veterans Service Officer – Jake Kramer .

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

S.H.I.N.E / OUTREACH

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

The Rehoboth Council on Aging A Municipal Department of the Town

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

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

January 2021

The Reporter

Club News & ANNOUNCEMENTS Well Wishes of Hope and Health from Kiwanis of Greater Seekonk

Kiwanis of Greater Seekonk would like to wish you all a Happy New Year and that your holidays were, if nothing else, peaceful.

We are all hoping that 2021 will be a much better year. Please try to keep your hopes up and patience, if possible. We know it is not an easy thing to do during these uncertain times.

Please don’t forget that we are not alone and that we are all going through many disappointments together. Pleas take care, be safe, healthy, and hopeful. We will get through this.

Sincerely, Kiwanis of Greater Seekonk

Rehoboth Anawan Lions News

Hi from the Anawan Lions! We hope you had a very enjoyable Holiday Season this year, thankfully 2020 is over and 2021 will be better!!! We are still doing fundraising even though it is difficult at this time. No other news to report at this time. Please be safe, hopefully we will all be together soon.

American Legion & Rehoboth Anawan Lions Club Monthly Breakfast, Second Sunday of every month

January 10th 2021 7:30-10:30 A.M.

The Rehoboth Anawan Lions along with the Rehoboth American Legion Post 302 will now alternate each month giving the public a monthly breakfast. $8 per person suggested donation Fresh Home Cooked Goodness: Scrambled Eggs – pancakes – Bacon – Sausage – SOS - Home Fries – Fruit Cup – Juice – Coffee

Corned Beef & Cabbage Dinner March 14th, 2021 1:00-4:00 P.M.

$15.00 suggested donation per plate RSVP NOW - Tickets Only – No Walk-Ins DEADLINE DATE FOR TICKETS IS MARCH 5th!!

Shish Kabob Dinner

51

East Providence/Seekonk Rotary Club to Host “Ask a Banker” Event Area businesses, public invited to attend Zoom event featuring branch managers from local financial institutions

Has COVID-19 forever changed the way we bank? What are the key trends emerging in banking for 2021? Is the use of cash a thing of the past or are we fast becoming a cashless economy? How can business owners get their PPP loans forgiven? Will mortgage rates stay low in the New Year?

Thse questions and more will be answered by a panel of local banking experts at the upcoming “Ask A Banker” event, hosted by The Rotary Club of East Providence/Seekonk. The event, which is free and open to the public, will take place via Zoom on Wednesday, January 27, 2021 from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm and will feature local financial industry professionals, including Scott Haggerty, assistant vice president/branch manager of The Washington Trust Company in Rumford. The event will be moderated by William Francis, financial advisor with Edward Jones Investments in Riverside.

“We are so fortunate to have these professionals as members of our Rotary Club, and also as members of the East Providence Area Chamber of Commerce,” states Betty Galligan, president of The Rotary Club of East Providence/Seekonk, owner of Newberry Public Relations and Marketing, Inc. of Riverside, and past chair of the Chamber’s board of directors. “Their collective knowledge is a great asset not only to our Club and Chamber members, but to any business owner, accountant, financial officer, mortgage lender, or anyone who wishes to tap their expertise on banking topics by attending our event. How often can you just pick up the phone or meet with a busy banker these days to ask them a question? Their time is so valuable, and we are honored that they are participating in this panel discussion to help inform the community at large.”

Registration deadline for the event is Monday, January 25, 2021. To register for the East Providence/Seekonk Rotary “Ask A Banker” event, please visit https://epseekonkrotary.org/ or contact Lori DiPersio at (401) 578-5317 or ldipersio24@gmail.com. A Zoom link will be sent to all registrants prior to the event date. Questions for the panelists may be submitted to Lori in advance.

April 11th, 2021 1:00-4:00 P.M. $20.00 suggested donation per plate RSVP NOW - Tickets Only – No Walk-Ins DEADLINE DATE FOR TICKETS IS April 4th!!

For all events:

Under Ma. Covid-19 Guidelines, seating inside or outside available or TAKE OUTS are welcome and can be picked up in the expanded patio area under the BLUE umbrella next to Bay State Road.

American Legion Post 302 84 Bay State Road “At the Cannon” Rehoboth, MA Phone #508-252-9079 or Jake @ 315415-2277 E-mail Jake at Speedyjake@aol.com or Facebook “American Legion Post 302”

45

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52

The Reporter January 2021

SCHOOL NEWS DR Remote Learning Information

As of December 23, 2020 The COVID Pandemic has made 2020 an extremely difficult year. Together, we have worked tirelessly to provide education and support to our students and families in an attempt to build connections and normalcy in a time of great uncertainty. Our educators and staff have dedicated countless hours to develop instructional opportunities despite the many barriers they face in remote and hybrid learning models. They think outside the box, troubleshoot technical issues, and put on a happy face behind masks to make learning positive for our students. The work of our staff is admirable.

We are also forever grateful to our families for supporting our students during home learning. We appreciate the flexibility to shift learning models when necessary, change plans with little notice, and work through technical issues that impact remote learning. It has been a collaborative effort; the work of our district community exemplifies the phrase “we are all in this together”. Having our students in school has been a bright spot in a dark year.

The weeks leading up to holiday break have been increasingly difficult due to the community spread of COVID-19. We have had to close all school buildings because of the impact of the virus.

Through data analysis and collaboration between our nursing staff and local Boards of Health, we have identified an increase in COVID related absences due to illness and mandated quarantine periods.

In an effort to provide consistency for students, staff, and families to begin 2021, we have decided to implement a full remote learning model for the week of January 4th. Beginning Monday, January 4th, and ending Friday, January 8th, all cohorts will move to remote learning. No in-person programs will run from 1/4 - 1/8.

We will return to in-person learning on January 11th. Cohort A will again report on Mondays and Tuesdays; Cohort B will report on Thursdays and Fridays. Understanding that we were unable to implement the cohort change on 12/21 and 12/22, we will be working to identify another opportunity to balance live meeting days for each cohort in the near future.

We hope a full week of remote learning upon return from holiday break will provide a period of time for our local health agents to catch up on contact tracing and testing- critical interventions that have impacted the daily operation of our school buildings.

Looking ahead to 2021, we are hopeful that the distribution of a new vaccine against the virus will have a positive impact on our schools and communities. We are hopeful that, soon, we will begin to see a slow in the spread of the virus and can again provide uninterrupted learning for our students. Finally, despite our stagger to finish 2020, we hope to again sprint in 2021.

On behalf of the DR District community, I wish you a safe, relaxing, and happy holiday, and a new year filled with hope, health, and prosperity.

Sincerely, Dr. Anthony Azar

P-EBT Funds for the 2020-2021 School Year

Students who are eligible for free or reduced-priced meals in our school will get Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) funds through the 2020-2021 school year. P-EBT funds can be used to help you buy healthy food for your student and family. It’s important to stay healthy, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

How much will I get?

• Eligible students in a fully remote learning situation will get $117.20 per month.

• Eligible students in a hybrid learning situation will get $58.60 per month.

• Students attending school either half-day or fully in person are not eligible for P-EBT. How will I get P-EBT for October and November?

• Funds for October and November will be issued in ONE issuance.

• I got P-EBT in the past: You will get funds on your EBT or P-EBT card in late December.

• I am new to P-EBT: If you get SNAP and/or TAFDC, look for funds to be added to the DTA EBT card you already have.

If you do not get SNAP and/or TAFDC, look for a DTA letter and card in the mail in mid January.

How will I get P-EBT funds in 2021?

• I got P-EBT in the past on a P-EBT card: Starting in January, check your P-EBT card for funds on the 25th of each month for the rest of the school year.

• I got P-EBT in the past on my DTA EBT card: Starting in January, check your EBT card for funds on the 25th of each month for the rest of the school year.

January 2021 • If you are new to P-EBT: • If you get SNAP and/or TAFDC, check your DTA EBT card for funds.

• If you do NOT get SNAP and/or TAFDC, you will get a letter in the mail from the DTA. You will also get a P-EBT card in the mail in a different envelope. KEEP THE LETTER UNTIL YOU HAVE GOTTEN AND PINNED THE CARD. The letter has your students’ case number that you need to PIN the card.

Each month, funds will be added to your card on the 25th of each month for the month before. Example: your February P-EBT funds will be based on your students’ learning situation in January.

No longer have your P-EBT card?

Request a replacement card at DTAconnect.com/pebt. If you need help getting a new card, contact Gail Fisher at DRRSD Central Office at 508-252-5000 X5140. If you need a new EBT card, call DTA at 1-877-382-2363.

IMPORTANT: Using P-EBT does not impact you or your student’s immigration status. The public charge rule does not apply to this program.

Need more food help?

• If you are eligible for P-EBT you are likely eligible for SNAP, ongoing monthly food funds. Check your eligibility and apply at DTAConnect.com.

• You can also get FREE grab and go school provided by the district.

Get help: visit MAp-EBT.org or call 508-252-5000 X5140 Sincerely, Dr. Anthony Azar

53

and we look forward to her support and input as we navigate the 20-21 school year.

Grab & Go Meals

The Grab and Go meal service is still available for all students.

Pick up is at DRRHS from 10 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday.

All meals will include breakfast and lunch.

Stay in Touch

If you need to contact Beckwith while the building is closed, please email svincelette@drregional.org, krebelo@drregional.org, rshea@drregional.org or aabrams@drregional.org and we will do our best to assist you as quickly as we are able. Teachers, our nurse Mrs. Cathy Mondor, and all staff can also be emailed at any time and will reply as soon as they are able.

Principal’s Message

Dear Beckwith Families, Today is December 21st, the winter solstice. For me, it is always a special reminder to adjust our perspective. Up until today the days have been getting darker for longer periods of time, however, that all changes today. Today is a day of hope, optimism and looking forward. Every day from now until the summer solstice the days will be getting longer and brighter.

In my opinion not enough is made of the winter solstice and the hopeful feelings it delivers.

Just as with the winter solstice, we have reasons to be optimistic. The team throughout the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District is made up of educators who believe in being reflective practitioners. Simply put, at the end of the day we think about the good and the not-so- good as a way to learn. Sometimes lessons don’t go well, experiments do not work as planned, and my personal ”favorite” is that at the end of the lesson, you get the dreaded blank Continued on next page ...

Updated Flu Information

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health updated the mandated influenza vaccination for all K-12 students extending the deadline from December 31, 2020 to February 28, 2021. The new guidance states: “Students in Kindergarten through Grade 12 will be required to receive influenza vaccine for the current influenza season for school attendance unless they have a medical or religious exemption.

Students must receive influenza vaccine for the current season by February 28, 2021.”

If you have not already done so, please send documentation of your student’s flu vaccination to your school nurse by February 28, 2021.

Sincerely, Dr. Anthony Azar

The Reporter

Beckwith Dates to Remember

Jan. 4 Mid-point of Term 2 Jan. 4-8 - All students remote learning Jan. 11 Cohort A returns to BMS Hybrid Jan. 12 School Committee 6:30pm Jan. 14 Cohort B returns to BMS Hybrid Jan. 18 No School- M.L. King Jr. Day Jan. 19 Related Arts Cluster 4 Starts Jan. 19 Picture Make-up Day – Cohort A Jan. 20 Picture Make-up Day - Remote Jan. 21 Picture Make-up Day – Cohort B Jan. 26 School Committee 6:30pm Feb. 15-19 No School - Winter Recess

Beckwith Chronicle December 2020 Nurse’s Notes

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is now requiring that every student have evidence of a recent FLU VACCINE on file with the School Nurse, whether they are attending school in person or remotely. The shot must be given on or after July 1, 2020 to be effective in the upcoming flu season. All paperwork must be submitted by Dec. 31, 2020. Paperwork can be emailed to Mrs. Mondor at cmondor@drregional.org

BMS Welcomes Mrs. Abrams

Beckwith Middle School would like to welcome our new assistant principal, Amy Abrams. Mrs. Abrams comes to us from the Sharon Public Schools where she spent the last three years as the Special Education Coordinator at Sharon Middle School.

Prior to that Mrs. Abrams worked as a team chair in Marlboro and Blackstone/Millville. Mrs. Abrams joins us during a unique year

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54

The Reporter January 2021

stare looking back at you (the type of stare that Charlie Brown gives his teachers). Reflective practitioners will ask themselves, “How can I improve, how can I make education more accessible for the students?” This is the reflective approach we took from March 13th and still continue today.

Based upon our experiences and reflections from the spring, we put together a completely different educational offering than that of almost a year ago: an education that meets the needs of our students while still being safe. There isn’t one of us who has not grown in order to help support our students. Parents, teachers, admin, and staff have all been forced to grow. We have learned terms like asynchronous vs. synchronous, cohort A/ cohort B, remote learning, and even, the difference between a chromebook and a laptop (apparently there is a difference). In a time of uncertainty, it is hope and optimism that keep us moving forward together. This hope and optimism come from the proven fact that we have grown through the course of this extremely difficult time.

It was challenging, it was uncomfortable, it was hard but we were all able to learn and grow.

Usually every December we start to see “Best of …” lists to finish off the year. This year I have noticed a different trend. The common and justifiable theme for this year is wishing 2020 goodbye. Please, do not get me wrong; this year has been a lot and 2020 will always represent a difficult time in our history. However, I would like to end with celebrating the parts of 2020 that did shine for our community. At Beckwith, we have had the opportunity to see so many of our students each week in the spring reach out and share photos from home that we had to create a separate email account just for them! We had a rolling graduation in order to celebrate our 8th grade students which allowed a proper goodbye to our students.

All BMS students have gone one to one with computer devices,

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and we have welcomed many new staff members to help continue to support our students. As a principal in this community, I walked around the BMS building this autumn with pride reflecting on how flexible the students, staff, and community are and continue to be.

So yes, “BYE 2020”! Despite everything you threw at us, we made it through. And as the next few tough months press on, please remember the days are literally getting brighter.

Thank you, Happy Holidays, and Best Wishes in the New Year!

Ryan Shea

Remote Learning to Continue at Seekonk Public Schools through January 11, 2021

Seekonk — Superintendent Rich Drolet announces that the Seekonk Public Schools will continue with their remote learning model through Jan. 11, 2021.

The district went remote the week of Dec. 21.

In consultation with the Seekonk Board of Health and the Seekonk School Committee, and in light of anticipated increased quarantining after the holiday break, the district feels that a remote learning model will provide a structure that is most conducive to student learning and health for the first week in January.

“We are concerned that operating in our current hybrid model with high numbers of students and staff quarantining after the holiday break would negatively impact our ability to teach the majority of our students,” Superintendent Drolet said. “There is no replacement for in-person learning and the connections between teachers and students and their peers. We remain committed to in-person learning, but since August when we developed plans for all three learning models (remote, hybrid, and full in-person), we knew there would be times when our district would have to temporarily shift to remote learning if rates increased.

“I have been proud of the work of our teachers, administrators, and all staff. Our entire school community, which includes our students and families and staff, have done a commendable job following the rules and guidelines related to keeping our students and staff safe.”

Building principals will share remote learning schedules with families by the close of school on Wednesday, December 23.

The district has been in the hybrid learning model since the start of the school year.

Earlier this year both Aitken Elementary School and Seekonk High School temporarily shifted to the remote learning model. In the case of the high school, the building was unable to effectively operate due to the high number of faculty and staff required to quarantine as a result of being identified as close contacts of individuals who had tested positive for COVID-19. Aitken Elementary School started the first two weeks of the school year in the remote learning model due to delays in its building expansion project.

Special education students who attend placements outside of the Seekonk Public Schools will continue to be transported and participate in-person unless notified by their program/service provider.

Seekonk Child Find

As part of the Child Find process, the Seekonk Public Schools will be conducting preschool screening for children who will be turning 3 or 4 years of age by August 31, 2021 and are residents of Seekonk.

A development, social skills, and speech and language screening will take approximately one hour and will be held Monday, April 12th and Tuesday, April 13th at Aitken and Martin Schools. This screening serves two purposes; first, it identifies preschool age students who may be in need of special education services. Second, it allows children to be eligible to enter the lottery for available model spots in the Seekonk Public Schools Integrated Preschool Program.

January 2021 Please feel free to call Aitken School at (508) 336-5230 or Martin School at (508) 336-7558 if you have any questions.

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

If interested in having your preschool aged child screened as part of Child Find or to be a potential model student, you may register your child. Pre-school screening registration for all Seekonk students turning 3 or 4 years of age by August 31, 2021 will be held beginning January 4 th 2020. You may register your child daily from 10 AM-2 PM. All registration forms may be picked up at Aitken or Martin School beginning January 4th, 2020 or downloaded from the Seekonk Public Schools website. Appointments for screenings will be made when you register your child.

Feel free to call Aitken School at (508) 336-5230 or Martin School at (508) 336-7558 if you have any questions or email the Pre-school coordinator, Holly Flanagan at flanganh@seekonkschools.org.

Seekonk Kindergarten Registration

The Seekonk Public Schools will be having Kindergarten registration daily during the month of January, 2020 from 9:30 AM-2 PM. If your child will be 5 years of age by August 31, 2021, you may register your child at the school he/she will be attending. If you are unsure of your child’s school, please feel free to call either school for the information.

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

To register your child you will need: • Proof of residency • Your child’s original birth certificate (copy will be made) • Immunization record • Completed registration and home language survey documents Kindergarten screening will be held on April 26th, May 5th, and May 14th during the school day. Appointments will be made when you register your child for school.

Registration packets are available at either school beginning January 4, 2020. Please feel free to call Aitken School (508) 3365230 or Martin School (508) 336-7558 if you have any questions.

Tri-County RVTHS Takes Extraordinary Steps for Fresh Air

Tri-County will be the areas first school to complete installation of an upgraded HVAC System that includes UV lights in ducts

Franklin, MA— December 1, 2020 — Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School’s facilities department and HVAC Contractors have recently finished upgrading and replacing the school’s central HVAC Systems, classroom and building VAV boxes, and unit heaters throughout the facility. New control valves and thermostats have been installed and tied into the new building control/management system to ensure the facility’s equipment’s proper operation.

This upgrade/replacement will improve building comfort by balancing the system and will address the building’s indoor air quality (IAQ) and will help maximize the system’s cubic feet per minute (CFM) output. The new energy management system allows the

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equipment to precisely control the flow of fresh air being brought into the building. The new units can bring in 100% outside air, which will enable us to dilute the indoor air with fresh air and dramatically increase overall IAQ. The new control system allows fresh air to be brought in hours before the building will be occupied for the day. Classrooms will see a minimum of six air exchanges per hour.

The air will now be scrubbed by two filtration racks equipped with high-efficiency air filters (rated at MERV 13 and higher) with a total filter thickness of 14” instead of the single rack 4” filter equipped in the old system. Tri-County’s Facilities Department will be able to control the exhaust fans in the building and enable them to remove more air from the building and maintain a constant air exchange throughout the facility.

The next step in the process is to install UV Commercial lights in the HVAC ducts. This technology has been proven to be effective at destroying a wide variety of bacteria and many studies show a 99.9% effectiveness killing the COVID 19 virus as well as seasonal viruses including influenza. Dust, Dust mites, mold, and mildew can all be controlled through these systems. This in turn will help reduce common sneezing, wheezing, and other allergy related symptoms.

“We are excited to put this technology in place to help mitigate the threat of airborne germs.” says Harry Takesian, Director of Facilities Management For more information Contact: Harry Takesian, Director of Facilities Management at (508) 528-5400 x296 or takesian@tri-county.us

Bishop Stang High School Announces First Quarter Honor Roll

Dartmouth, MA, December 8, 2020 Bishop Stang High School is proud of the accomplishments of our students, and recognizes those students earning Honor Roll distinction. Students on the President’s List have an average 95 or above. The following student from Rehoboth is being recognized for academic achievement at Bishop Stang High School for performance in the first quarter: President’s List: Madelyn Rock ‘24

St. Luke’s School Announces Honor Roll

The following Seekonk residents have achieved Honor Roll status at St. Luke’s School in Barrington for the recently completed trimester. Grade 6: First Honors: Samuel Ethier. Grade 7: First Honors: Lauren Adamonis. Second honors: Carolina El Khoury. Grade 8: Second Honors: Liliana El Khoury The following Rehoboth residents have achieved Honor Roll status at St. Luke’s School in Barrington for the recently completed trimester. Grade 6 Second Honors: Luke Moitoso. Grade 7: First Honors: Emma Chartier, Madeline Welch. Second honors: Brayden Sousa. Grade 8: Second Honors: Andrew Gesner, Danielle Ptaszek.

Local Students Receive Honors at Saint Raphael Academy

Saint Raphael Academy congratulates students from Bristol County who have achieved honor roll status for the first marking period in academic year 2020-21. They are: Highest Honors: Cooper Skenyon, 10 (Seekonk); Shiwei Carlson , 9(Seekonk) First Honors: Jakob Gries, 11 (Seekonk); Meryem Oldro, 12 (Seekonk) Second Honors: Travis Chartier, 9 (Rehoboth); Erik Liebegott, 10 (Rehoboth); Samantha Simonds, 11 (Rehoboth), Simon Treanor, 11 (Seekonk); Madison Kotch, 12 (Rehoboth), Edward Turnbull III, 12 (Seekonk), Samuel White, 12 (Seekonk)

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The Reporter January 2021

Snapshots of Palmer River: Working together and Reaching Higher Ice is Nice!

Third Grade Teachers Can Do Virtually Anything!

Did you know that you can make Candles out of ice? Pictured right, Clive, Veda and Vincent T. pose with their recent STEAM creations. Science, Technology, Engineering Art and Mathematics have all come into play for this at home asynchronous activity.

While our students have live specialist classes each week, our specialist team provides a menu of alternate options for student to try at home. Accolades to Mrs. T. for her support in this creative learning endeavor.

Baseball/Softball Registration Opens January 11th!!!!

Register before March 1st for early bird discount – don’t wait!

Family discounts are also available. See our website’s registration page for more information and instructions.

We welcome players from ALL surrounding communities!

Become a part of a growing, fundamentally driven program.

For the 2021 season, RYBSA will continue its intertown partnerships with Dighton and Swansea for our baseball and softball divisions..

Please visit our website for more information on divisions/ age groups, our fields, and league updates. Looking forward to a fun, educational, and action-packed baseball season!!

Our team of third grade teachers work together to develop both classroom and virtual curriculum for our students. Their positivity shone brightly as they dressed in their ‘team shirts’. We are appreciative of the hard work all of our teachers are putting forth. Navigating during a pandemic is exceptionally stressful and challenging.

We applaud our educational professionals for the outstanding efforts they have put forth to keep our students achieving, engaged and happy. Bravo to all of our School Staff working in every capacity!!!

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Students in the fourth grade with Mrs. Silveria are learning all about ‘animal adaptations’. As part of this science unit, the scholars are exploring the skeletons of a variety of animals. Pictured above, Elvira C., Stephen B. and Hannah C. show us three of their favorites.

Can you guess this animal? What clues do you see to tell you what it eats? The students are quick to examine the skeletal teeth to see if they are flat surfaced or canines. Hannah shared that the spine of an animal can tell you a lot about how it adapts in nature. Who knew that science could involve such heavy lifting?!!

January 2021

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DR Marching Band Holiday Concert

The Covid 19 Tailgate Holiday Concert was held on December 4th 2020 at Dighton Rehoboth High School. A Christmas time like nothing we’ve ever experienced. So many life events changed or cancelled completely. But, for the students of Dighton Rehoboth High School Marching Band and Chorus there was a ray of hope. A possible chance to make things as close to normal as we could.

While keeping everyone safe.

The DR Marching Band and Chorus decided to push through, and persevere. With Dean of Students and show producer Doug Kelley at the helm, he called on his old band staff to help him put together a show that would stun parents and administrators alike. He decided to attempt to perform the Transiberian Orchestra’s Carol of the Bells.

No small feat!

With Joe Botelho, now band Director playing guitar, Shawn Urban running audio, and Matt Earle lighting designer , Guard staff Emily Cloutier and Grace Wilson perfecting dance and motion , Will Silva and Jon Duncan working hard with the drum-line and Michelle Horner directing the from ensemble, Kelley figured he couldn’t lose.

Heck this band has traveled multiple times to Walt Disney World. Performed for President Obama in Washington DC, played for Tom Brady with Best Buddies and performed with the rock band “The Who”! He also added a huge light show, got singers, Colorguard members, and within three weeks pulled together something epic!

“Everyone was pulling in the same direction!”

That was the magic.

A performance SO big their video got 15,000 hits in two days! “The Rhode Show has contacted me, and we are hoping to get this performance live to them before the Christmas season is over. Other News stations contacted Mr. Kelley as well to when they could get to see this great performance. continued on next page...

Visit https://sites.google.com/site/powerprideandpassion/ https://www.facebook.com/DRMBB

Joining the DRMB will give you the opportunity to: Perform in front of HUNDREDS of people every weekend Travel • Make new friends• Play or dance your heart out Develop skills forPLAY the future • Love you do Whether you DANCE, SING, a wind or stringwhat instrument, or just want something to do, marching band is most definitely for you!

Open to all Dighton and Rehoboth grades 6 to 12 (Homeschool and tech students included) For more information contact: 2020-2021 Drum Majors-Oliver Carr ocarr21@drstudents.org & Kristin Corvi kcorvi22@drstudents.org Band director Joseph Botelho jbotelho@drregional.org & Color guard instructor Emily Cloutier emilycloutier8@gmail.com for recruitment details.

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The Reporter January 2021

ATTENTION PARENTS IN DIGHTON, REHOBOTH & SEEKONK!

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ENROLL TODAY FOR FREE HEAD START & EARLY HEAD START E-LEARNING! PARENTS - YOU ARE YOUR CHILD’S FIRST AND MOST IMPORTANT TEACHER. HEAD START & EARLY HEAD START CAN HELP YOU BE THE VERY BEST! • Weekly one on one virtual lessons • Weekly virtual group activities with peers • School supplies for use at home (art supplies, books, puzzles etc.)

• Hearing, vision and dental screening • Assistance with accessing health care, dental supplies for use at home (toothbrush & toothpaste) • Assess your family’s strengths & needs and help you develop a plan to reach your goals • Provide support for coping with challenging behaviors, parenting concerns, anxiety, depression, etc.

• Prenatal support & education • Assistance in accessing prenatal care, nutrition support & education and so much more.

E-LEARNING IS FREE FOR INCOME ELIGIBLE PREGNANT WOMEN AND FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN AGES 0-5.

Please call (508) 675-2151 for more information Parents can now enroll online at cfcinc.org

But, due to the pandemic, this awesome show was primarily for private eyes only. “We gathered only 50 cars where the parents either tailgated or sat in their vehicles”. “The band drill was written to keep each band member 6 feet apart. The brass and woodwind players all covered their instruments with masks as well”.

The audience beeped their cars horns for approval. Many with tears in their eyes knowing how much this meant in such a trying time. The possibility of only having this one show was weighing on the minds of everyone that night.

The Dighton Rehoboth Marching Band would like to thank all of those who made this night a reality. We hope you enjoy the pictures, the video, and the smiles on the kids’ faces, because history was made on that night of December 4, 2020. And hopefully never again.

The DR Marching band sends a huge THANK YOU to our Superintendent is Schools Dr. Anthony Azar for his incredible support throughout the years and a Mr. Todd Pilling our Board of Health Director who safely got us through the last 9 months here at DR. Douglas Kelley Dean of Student Activities and Athletics Dighton Rehoboth Regional High School

January 2021

Kid-Friendly Recipes for At-Home Learning

(Family Features) During a school year that’s sure to be a new experience for students and parents alike, many of the everyday necessities, like eating breakfast and lunch, remain. However, this year, many little learners will be enjoying their lunches from the comfort and safety of home rather than at school, meaning moms and dads are back in charge of keeping the kitchen running throughout the day.

According to a survey conducted by OnePoll in conjunction with Sabra, 74% of caregivers expect this school year to be more chaotic than ever and 64% of moms and dads complain they are dreading becoming the “lunch lady” at home.

You can improve those school day blues with quick, kid-friendly recipes that refuel children for their educational explorations. By providing a steady stream of balanced meals and snacks made with wholesome ingredients, you can feel good about boosting your athome students’ learning capabilities even during these tricky times.

In the morning, try starting with this Chocolate Banana Cinnamon Toast recipe from Tabitha Brown, the actress and vegan foodie known as “America’s Mom.” Sliced banana powers this breakfast with the rich, decadent taste of Sabra Dark Chocolate Dessert Dip & Spread to thrill chocolate lovers for a combination of flavors kids love.

For a lunchtime solution with easy prep and quick cleanup, a Hummus Flatbread Pizza takes just 10-15 minutes to make. Made with easy-to-find ingredients you can keep on-hand like pizza sauce and hummus, simply top with sweet favorites like pineapple for a fun boost for long days of learning.

To find more at-home recipe inspiration, visit sabra.com.

The Reporter

Directions

1. Toast bread to desired doneness.

2. Using spoon, swirl to spread 1 1/2 tablespoons chocolate spread on each slice of toast.

3. Add banana slices to one slice of toast and sprinkle with cinnamon.

4. Top with second slice of toast.

5. Slice in half diagonally. Add to plate with extra sliced banana and fresh strawberries, if desired. Drizzle toast with maple syrup and sprinkle with powdered sugar.

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Hummus Flatbread Pizza

Recipe courtesy of Tabitha Brown Prep time: 10-15 minutes ~ Yield: 1 flatbread

Ingredients

• 4 teaspoons pizza sauce • 1 rectangular flatbread • 3 tablespoons Sabra Classic Hummus • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, divided • 1/3 cup pineapple tidbits or fresh pineapple pieces • strawberries • chopped romaine lettuce • English cucumber slices

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 500 F. 2. Brush pizza sauce to edges of flatbread. Swirl to spread hummus to edges of flatbread. Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder over flatbread. If using canned pineapple tidbits, drain and pat dry with paper towel. Add pineapple tidbits to flatbread and sprinkle with remaining garlic powder.

3. Bake 5-10 minutes, or until flatbread is light golden brown.

4. Cool and cut flatbread. Serve with strawberries and mix chopped romaine lettuce and English cucumber slices for simple salad.

Chocolate Banana Cinnamon Toast

Recipe courtesy of Tabitha Brown Prep time: 10-15 minutes ~ Yield: 2 pieces toast

Ingredients

• 2 slices cinnamon raisin bread • 3 tablespoons Sabra Dark Chocolate Dessert Dip & Spread • 6 banana slices, plus additional for serving (optional) • 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon powder • 1 tablespoon maple syrup • fresh strawberries (optional) • powdered sugar

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The Reporter January 2021

Support Local Restaurants Dine Out or Take Out? Or Try a Recipe at Home...

Grilled Asian Ginger Pork Chops

Grilled Asian Ginger Pork Chops are loaded with bold, sweet, and tangy flavor. This 30-minute marinade is perfect for pork chops, but can also be used on chicken Prep:15 mins ~ Cook: 15 mins ~ Servings: 6 chops ~ Cals: 396

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs. Bone-in pork chops *can use boneless as well • 1/2 cup Mazola® Corn Oil • 2/3 cup Balsamic Vinegar • 2 tbsps. Worcestershire sauce • 1/2 tsp. ground black pepper • 1/2 tsp. onion powder • 1 tsp. ground ginger • 4 cloves minced garlic • 2 tbsps. green onion chopped

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the Mazola® Corn Oil, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, spices, garlic, and ginger; stir to combine.

2. Add pork chops to either a food-safe storage bag or dish and coat with the marinade. Make sure each chop is fully coated.

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We l c o m e

To O u r Is l a n d

Allow pork chops to marinade for at least 15 minutes.

3. Heat grill to medium heat.

4. Place marinaded pork chops on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side. The internal temperature should be at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

5. Allow pork chops to rest for 2-3 minutes and enjoy!

Garlic Vegetable Stir Fry

This easy and convenient Garlic Vegetable Stir Fry recipe is inexpensive and quick to make. Made with easy to find, colorful, fresh veggies, and vibrant garlic. This meatless meal is both a frugal and flavorful when served with rice.

Prep: 10 mins ~ Cook: 15 mins ~ Servings: 2 ~ Cals: 396

Ingredients

• 1 large sweet white onion sliced thin • 2 cups broccoli crowns, chopped • 6 ounces white mushrooms sliced • 1 1/2 cups mixed sweet peppers sliced • 4 cloves garlic minced • 1/2 tsp ginger • 1/4 tsp salt • 1/4 tsp black pepper • 2 tbsps. olive oil • 2 cups Minute® Ready to Serve Garlic & Olive Oil Jasmine Rice (individual cups*) If using regular Minute® rice, prepare 1/2 cup for this recipe.

• Sesame seeds optional*

Instructions

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1. Rinse, dry, and prepare vegetables.

2. Add olive oil to a large wok. Place chopped vegetables inside.

3. Season vegetables with spices and mix with a wooden spoon.

4. Stir for 10-15 minutes over medium-high heat. you do not want the veggies mushy.

Sitr frequently. Broccoli will turn deep green once ready and still have a slight snap to it.

5. Heat Minute® Ready to Serve Garlic & Olive Oil Jasmine Rice cups in the microwave.

6. Add rice to a dish and add veggies on top. Serve right away while warm.

Quick & Delicious Beef Stew Recipe

A hearty and delicious beef stew recipe that can be made in 1 hour.

Prep: 10 mins ~ Cook: 1 hr Servings: 8 ~ Cals: 339

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs beef tenderloin cut into bite sized chunks • 3 carrots sliced • 2 stalks celery sliced • 1 onion large, diced • 3 potatoes large, cubed

January 2021 • 3 Beef Bullion cubes • 6 cups water • 2 tablespoons olive oil *can use butter too • 1/4 cup flour • 1/4 tsp black pepper • 1/4 tsp minced onion • 1/4 tsp minced garlic • 2 tbsps Parsley for garnishing

Instructions

1. After you prep your veggies, and meat coat the beef cubes in half of the allotted flour and season with pepper and a little salt.

This step helps add extra flavor to the meat. Coating the beef also helps to thicken the overall stew a bit.

2. Add 2 tablespoons olive (or butter) to a large skillet and brown meat. Brown all sides (about 5 minutes).

3. Add in your flour coated beef and in a large frying pan, pan-fry for about 5 mins until all sides are browned 4. In a separate stock pot, add your water, and bring to a boil to dissolve your 3 beef bouillon cubes.

5. Coat veggies in remaining flour and add to the skillet with the meat.

6. Add in your veggies, and fry for an additional 5-10 mins on med heat until your veggies are slightly tender, and meat is fully cooked.

7. Place veggies and meat into stock pot with the boiling broth.

Add remaining spices & parsley.

8. Add a little stock to your skillet to de-glaze it and pour the mixture from the frying pan into the stock pot (flavor) 9. Bring meat and veggies to a boil, and then reduce heat to simmer.

10. Simmer for 45 mins on medium heat 11. Soup will thicken as it sits.

French Onion Soup Made with Vidalia Onions

Probably the best French Onion Soup you will ever try, this rich soup is made delicious with sweet Vidalia onions. Sherry wine and fresh bay leaves give this soup an incredibly delicious depth of flavor. Topped with a fresh crouton, and a blend of delicious, melted cheese, this soup is amazing.

Prep: 30 mins ~ Cook: 30 mins ~ Servings: 12 ~ Cals: 140

Ingredients • 4 lbs. vidalia onions sliced thinly • 4 cloves garlic minced • 1/2 tsp. Kosher salt • 1/4 tsp black pepper • 6 tbsps. salted butter • 3 tbsps. all-purpose flour • 3 tbps. balsamic vinegar • 2 tbsps. Worcestershire sauce • 8 cups water • 1 cup dry sherry wine • 8 tsps. Better than Bouillon Beef Base *

• 2 whole fresh bay leaves • 3/4 tbsp. dry thyme can use fresh thyme as well • Soup Toppings • non-smoked provolone slices • Swiss Cheese slices • French bread loaf sliced into 2” thick slices • butter • garlic powder

Instructions

1. Add sliced onions to a 6-quart stock pot with butter. Over medium-low heat, caramelize onions until they take on a deep golden brown color. This will take at least 30 minutes. You will want to stir occasionally.

2. Add in minced garlic and cook for another minute or 2.

3. De-glaze pan with sherry and mix to get all the bits that might be on the bottom of the pan mixed.

4. Add spices, flour, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce.

5. Add in beef bouillon base and water; stir.

6. Add in bay leaves, and thyme; allow soup to simmer for on low heat for 30 minutes.

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7. Preheat oven to 375 to toast the bread.

8. Coat bread slices with butter, and garlic and bake for 3 minutes per side.

9. Remove bay leaves from soup carefully. Ladle soup into crocks/ bowls. Add one toasted bread crouton to each.

10. Top each bowl with desired amount of cheese. It is okay if cheese overlaps the bowl a bit.

11. Broil each crock (must be oven-safe) for 1-2 minutes until cheese is bubbly. Serve warm. *provides better beef flavor vs. regular cubes, or stock.

Recipes courtesy of Jared and Amy Desrosiers of Seekonk at www.sizzlingeats.com

La Collina is “hibernating” until March...

See you in the Spring!

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The Reporter January 2021

IN MEMORIAM Barbara Ann (Szydlowski) Archer

Joan M. Neary

Joan M. Neary, 79, of Rehoboth, passed away on Tuesday, December 29, 2020 at Sturdy Memorial Hospital. She was the wife of the late James J. Neary, Jr. Born in East Providence, she was a daughter of the late Francisco and Mary (Santos) Gomes.

Mrs. Neary was a customer service representative for Speidel for many years before she retired. She enjoyed reading, watching cooking shows and game shows and solving word search puzzles.

She leaves two daughters, Patricia Ferreira and her husband Jonathan, with whom she made her home and Colleen Bellamy and her companion David Swanson all of Rehoboth, three grandchildren, Kathleen Fitzgerald, Marguerite Bellamy and Madison Ferreira, four great grandchildren, Jaelyn, Ava, Penelope and Maddox, her lifelong friend Lee Moreira and many others, many nieces and nephews and her two favorite dogs, Tonka and Luke. She was the sister of the late John S. Gomes, Barbara V. Casale and William J. Gomes.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at a day and time to be announced.

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

Barbara Ann (Szydlowski) Archer, age 86, of Rehoboth, passed away Saturday, November 7, 2020 at Sturdy Memorial Hospital in Attleboro after a brief illness. She was the loving wife of Robert Archer, with whom she was married to for 66 years.

Born in Providence, a daughter of the late John and Helen (Kwiatkowski) Szydlowski, she had lived in Rehoboth for many years.

A graduate of St. Xavier Academy in Providence, Class of 1952, Barbara was a school bus driver for many years and she loved going on cross-country road trips with her husband in their camper.

In addition to her husband survivors include: six children, Deborah Peck and her husband Gregory of Rehoboth, Susan Shaw and her husband Greg of Maine, Linda Archer also of Maine, Jeffrey Archer and his wife Donna of Brockton, Cynthia Simmons of Rehoboth and Kimberly Archer of Dighton; eight grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

Due to current restrictions on social gatherings her funeral and burial will be private.

Memorial contributions in her honor may be made to Rehoboth Food Pa n t r y I n c . , 51 W inthrop St., Rehoboth, MA 02769. Arrangements are in the care of Waring-Sullivan Birchcrest, Swansea. For online tributes, please visit: www.waringsullivan.com Barbara Ann Archer

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

Priscilla D. Clark

Priscilla D. Clark, 90, owner and manager of the Hidden Hollow Country Club in Rehoboth, Massachusetts and wife to the late William B. Clark, passed away in her home on December 8, 2020 with her devoted daughter Priscilla J. Clark at her side. She is also survived by her sister Sylvia (Duarte) Janes, her brother-in-law Charles D. (Ted) Janes of East Providence, and her nephew Kevin Pariseau, his wife Pamela, and their son Nicolas of Nyack, NY. She was predeceased by her son Russell W. Phillips in 1978. Priscilla had been married twice, first to the late Russell S. Phillips and then to Bill Clark, who built what became HHCC in the 1960s. After Bill suffered a debilitating disease in 1972, she began a true labor of love successfully running the day-to-day operation of the golf course, with her daughter’s assistance in recent years. Priscilla was born in Providence in 1930 to the late Joseph S. and Rose (Cardoza) Duarte and was a 1948 graduate of East Providence High School. Priscilla loved visits from her family (especially summer golf outings from Nicolas) and spent many evenings going to concerts and theater, in the 1970s at “The Tent” in Warwick with her sister and more recently at PPAC with her daughter. She was a seasoned fan of both the Boston Red Sox (attending a World Series game in 2007) and the New England Patriots, rooting for Tom Brady from her favorite living room easy chair. She began each day with a donut and cup of tea and until March, 2019 had not seen a doctor for nearly 50 years. Priscilla donated generously to the American Heart Association and American Cancer Society, and she crocheted and knitted avidly, donating many of her afghans and scarves to charity for auction. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the RISPCA in her faithful grand-dog Bubba’s name. (RISPCA, 186 Amaral Street, Riverside, RI 02915) Abiding by her wishes, arrangements by the PerryMcStay Funeral Home were private.

January 2021 The Reporter

63

Gustav W. Eckilson

Joanne P. Fritsch

Gustav W. Eckilson (87) passed away on December 20, 2020 at the HopeHealth Hulitar Hospice Center. He was the husband of Audrey A. (Boler) Eckilson, the son of the late Jennie (MacPherson) and Gustave A. Eckilson, and the brother of the late Albert S. Eckilson.

Known as Ecky to his friends, he was a life-long resident of Rehoboth. He was a member of the Rehoboth Congregational Church, joining when he was 14-years old.

He attended Dighton High Gustav W. Eckilson School and Storm King School in Cornwall-on-Hudson, NY where he played football. After graduating from Bryant College with a degree in accounting he began a long career in insurance. Always interested in learning, he later returned to Bryant to earn an MBA. A member of the Appalachian Mountain Club, in 1962 he reached the peak of Mount Rainier – one of the most challenging mountain summits in North America. In his retirement he continued to enjoy hiking, camping and canoeing. He also enjoyed traveling with his wife Audrey to visit national parks and rodeos across the country. Throughout his life, though, his greatest joy was raising livestock with his sons on the family farm in Rehoboth where he lived his entire life.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years Audrey, his son Karl of Dublin, NH, his son Erik and his wife Michelle of Woonsocket, RI, and his grandchildren Jennie, Tyler, Justin and Julie.

His graveside service at Rehoboth Village Cemetery will be private. Calling hours are respectfully omitted. In lieu of flowers, gifts in his memory to Storm King School, 314 Mountain Road, Cornwall-on-Hudson, NY 12520 will be appreciated.

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

Joanne P. Fritsch, 83, of Attleboro, died peacefully on December 26, 2020 at Country Gardens. Born in Winchester, NH, she was a daughter of the late Oliver M. Prentice & Davena (Bailey) Prentice. At the age of 9, Joanne moved to Rehoboth to be raised by her beloved Aunt Betty & Uncle Earl Goff along with her cousins, Dotty, Earl, Vernon, & Dick Goff.

Joanne was employed as Licensed Practical Nurse at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical CenJoanne P. Fritsch ter for 39 years until her retirement. She was a lifelong member of the Rehoboth Congregational Church where she sang in the choir. She was a member of the Audubon Society, lifetime member of the 10th Mountain Division, and a 60 year member of the Anawan Grange.

Joanne was an avid Red Sox Fan and loved “The Peanuts”, especially Snoopy.

She leaves her son, Douglas Fritsch of Wisconsin and three grandchildren. She also leaves many beloved cousins. She was the sister of the late Oliver M. Prentice, Jr., James B. Prentice, Janet M. Flagg, & Eva P. Litchfield.

Her funeral and burial in Rehoboth Village Cemetery will be private. Calling hours are respectfully omitted.

The family wishes to thank the wonderful caregivers at the Brookdale Attleboro Memory Care Unit, Country Gardens of Swansea, & Continuum Care Hospice for their love, support, and care of Joanne.

In lieu of flowers, gifts in her memory to the Rehoboth Congregational Church, 139 Bay State Road, Rehoboth, MA 02769 or to Continuum Care Hospice, 21 Father Devalles Blvd, Suite 204, Fall River, MA 02721 will be appreciated.

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

This candle burns in loving memory of those who are forever present in our hearts Competent Concern When the Need Arises Affordable Funeral & Cremation Services regardless of financial circumstance Pre-Planning Specialists Proudly serving Rehoboth & Seekonk families since 1898 Andrew J. Correia, MBIE; President/Funeral Director & Embalmer

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

64

The Reporter January 2021

Sally T. Knox REHOBOTH—Sally T. Knox, 84, passed away peacefully at home on December 10, 2020. She was the wife of the late Milton L. Knox.

Sally was a lifelong resident of Rehoboth and was the daughter of the late Arthur Hurrell and Gladys (Carpenter) Hurrell.

Sally served and dedicated much of her time to the betterment of senior living and was employed locally as the Director of the Attleboro Council on Aging until her retirement and also worked for Bristol Elder Services in Fall River. Sally was a longtime member of the Rehoboth Congregational Church and a past member of the Rehoboth Activity Club.

She enjoyed knitting, quilting and crocheting, creating wonderful homemade gifts for her family and friends. Sally also enjoyed Sally T. Knox traveling with her late husband. Sally will be remembered as a kind and outgoing woman who cherished the time she spent with her family, especially her grandchildren.

She is survived by her children, Milton “Skip” Knox, Jr and his wife Christine of Center Conway, NH, Sheila Wescott and Susan Gauthier and her husband Rob all of Twin Mt., NH; twelve grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren one great-great grandchild and several nieces and nephews.

She was the sister of the late Retired Fire Chief Arthur Hurrell, Jr. and Gordon Hurrell.

Private arrangements have been entrusted to the Foley-Cook-Hathaway Funeral Home, Attleboro.

Donations in Sally’s memory, may be made to the Rehoboth Congregational Church, 139 Bay State Rd., Rehoboth, MA 02769.

To leave a message for Sally’s family, please visit www.hathawayfunerals.com

www.

.com

Elizabeth “Betty” (Randall) Ferreira

Elizabeth “Betty” (Randall) Ferreira Elizabeth “Betty” (Randall) Ferreira, 75, of Robin Dr., Tiverton, formerly of Chestnut St., Rehoboth, passed away peacefully at home Friday afternoon, December 18, 2020.

She was the wife of Albert Ferreira.

Born Sept. 6, 1945, in Fall River, MA, she was a daughter of the late Thomas and Mary (Calisto) Randall.

In addition to her husband of 52 years, Betty leaves her three sons, David Ferreira (Maria) of Cranston/Hope, Michael Ferreira (Tania) of Hewitt, NJ, and Albert John “A.J.” Ferreira (Christine) of Plainville, MA; five grandchildren, Alyssa, Joseph, Andrew, Matthew and Isabelle; She was the sister of the late Kathryn (Randall) Ferreira.

Relatives and friends are invited to a Mass of Christian Burial, Wednesday Dec. 23, at 10am in Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, Taunton Ave., Seekonk. Because of COVID restrictions placed upon the Ferreira family, burial must be private at the RI Veterans Memorial Cemetery. Following Betty’s expressed wishes, there will be no calling hours.

Please omit flowers. Memorial donations are greatly appreciated to RI Hospital Lifespan Cancer Institute-Cancer Research, 139 Point St., Providence, RI 02903. www.rebellofuneralhome.com

January 2021 The Reporter

Arthur L. Potts Arthur L. Potts of Seekonk, MA passed away on December 23, 2020. Originally from Rehoboth, MA; he previously resided in Tampa, Florida and Beattyville, Kentucky.

He was employed as a truck and school bus driver, construction mason worker and served as a volunteer fireman in Rehoboth, MA and Beattyville, Kentucky before retiring.

Arthur loved telling jokes, playing dominos, cards, puzzles, bowling and watching television.

Arthur L. Potts He is survived by his sister: Florence M. Whelan of Seekonk and two nephews and their families: Frederick F. Whelan, Jr. of Seekonk, MA and John W. Whelan of Fitzwilliam, New Hampshire.

Due to Covid-19 concerns, there will be no funeral services.

Burial will be private in Seekonk Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will be held later.

In lieu of flowers and in memory of Arthur, memorial donations may be made to the Seekonk Animal Shelter, 100 Peck Street, Seekonk, MA 02771.

For additional information or to send the family a written expression of sympathy, please visit an online guest book at www. dyer-lakefuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Dyer-Lake Funeral Home, 161 Commonwealth Avenue, Village of Attleboro Falls, North Attleboro. (508) 695-0200

Rehoboth • Shirley A. (Field) Rascher, 93, of Rehoboth, MA, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 7, 2020 at the residence she lived in for almost her entire life.

• Priscilla D. Clark, 90, owner and manager of the Hidden Hollow Country Club in Rehoboth, Massachusetts and wife to the late William B. Clark, passed away in her home on December 8, 2020 with her devoted daughter Priscilla J. Clark at her side.

• Sally T. Knox, 84, passed away peacefully at home on December 10, 2020.

• Alan C. Bliss, age 76, of Rehoboth, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 22, 2020 at the Sturdy Memorial Hospital in Attleboro.

Seekonk • Joseph G. Fortin Sr.,77, a retired industrial electrician, died Monday, November 23, 2020.

• Henry “Hank” Joseph Fournier, 76, passed on at his home on Friday, November 27, 2020.

• Joseph Motta III, 58, of Greenbrier Apartments in Seekonk, Mass., died November 27 at his home.

• Rita M. (Gagnon) Mooney-Erhardt, 99, passed away on Saturday, December 5, 2020.

65

Saverio Rocco “Sam” Rupolo

Saverio Rocco “Sam” Rupolo, age 90, of Rehoboth, passed away at home surrounded by his loving family on Monday, January 4, 2021. He was the husband of Mary (Feeney) Rupolo to whom he had been married 35 years.

Born in Brooklyn, NY he was the son of the late Dominic Rupolo and Teresa Saverio Rocco “Sam” Rupolo (Tavernite) Rupolo.

A graduate of Meriden High School, Sam went on to attend Northeastern University and then Wentworth Institute of Technology where he obtained his Bachelor’s Degree. He worked as a Civil Engineer for over 60 years. He was the former Vice President of CE MAGUIRE INC for several years.

Sam was a proud Veteran of the United States Army having served his country in the 187th Airborne Division during the Korean War. A skilled guitarist, Sam loved singing, Italian music and food. A true family man, he especially enjoyed time spent with his children, cousins and grandchildren and time spent in his second home in Boca Raton.

Besides his devoted wife, he is survived by eight children, Linda Funderburk of Tallahassee, FL, Dominic Rupolo and his wife Gloria of West Palm Beach, FL, Cheryl Rupolo-Gerrish of Worcester, Michael Rupolo and his wife Lori of Shrewsbury, Dr. Thomas Rupolo and his wife Dr. Wende Rupolo of Palm Beach, FL, John Rupolo of Abeline, TX, Gina Brochu and her husband Kyle of Seekonk and Vincent A. Rupolo and his wife Sarah of Los Angeles, CA; one sister, Philomena “Philly” D’Angelo; eight grandchildren, Gary, Taylor, Michael John Jr., Jack, Ava, Aubree and Alex; two great grandchildren, Isabella and Anastasia; one niece, Deborah McGrath and husband Ronnie; one nephew, Nicholas D’Angelo; one great nephew, Michael McGrath; his beloved brothers and sisters-in-law, Michael, Cindy, Jeff, Cheryl and YB; his best friend and cousin, Dr. John Rupolo and many loving cousins and extended family.

His Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 7, 2021 from 2:00-4:00 PM in Waring-Sullivan Home at Birchcrest, 189 Gardners Neck Rd., Swansea. Due to current occupancy restrictions, please be mindful that guests may have to wait outside while others pay their respects. Burial will be private. For tributes and directions, please visit: www.waring-sullivan.com

Obituary Submission Policy To submit an obituary for print, please call the Reporter Office at 508-252-6575 for rates and information. Obituaries Start at $75.

The Reporter has free obituaries on our website. View and Post at: www.reportertoday.com

66

The Reporter January 2021

Seekonk to Receive Brownfield Award

Former Attleboro Dye Works Site to be Revitalized industrial or commercial properties by financing the environmental assessment and remediation of brownfield sites in “Economically Distressed Areas” of the Commonwealth. From the Fund’s inception in 1998 through FY20, it has supported 747 awards for a total investment of more than $108 million.

“MassDevelopment is proud to administer the Brownfields Redevelopment Fund, which serves as an important resource for the cleanup and redevelopment of key properties, and we thank the Baker-Polito Administration and the Legislature for their continued support of the program,” said MassDevelopment President and CEO Lauren Liss. “This year we’re choosing to make significant investments in five parcels that, once redeveloped, will allow for the creation of up to 312 housing units and about 50 full-time jobs.

In August 2020, MassDevelopment opened a competitive solicitation for applications from municipalities and their agencies or authorities, for up to $100,000 in site assessment funding or up to $250,000 in site assessment and/or remediation funding. The Town of Seekonk will use funds to remediate the former Attleboro Dye Works Site, a 7.88-acre site with three industrial buildings totaling 105,000 square feet of space, before marketing the parcel for housing, commercial, or light industrial uses.

Representative Steven Howitt expressed his gratitude to the Baker administration and the Town of Seekonk for their commitment to revitalizing the property. “I would like to thank the BakerPolito administration for keeping their promise to assist towns, like Seekonk, with economic development. This grant will help the town revitalize this property and put it back onto the town’s tax roll.

I would also like to thank and congratulate the Town of Seekonk Conservation Agent, Jennifer Miller, who worked diligently to submit the successful application” said Representative Howitt.

NO OUR W E X SE PAN RV D IC ING ES !

Boston- The Baker-Polito Administration awarded $1.25 million from the Brownfields Redevelopment Fund to support the environmental assessment and cleanup of five underutilized or abandoned sites across the Commonwealth that may have contaminants present. The former Attleboro Dye Work site at 36 Maple Avenue in Seekonk was one of five sites awarded the grant throughout the Commonwealth.

“The Brownfields Redevelopment Fund supports the assessment and cleanup of challenging sites across the Commonwealth, making our cities and towns stronger by clearing the way for new housing, commercial space, and jobs,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “Congratulations to today’s awardees, who are doing the hard work of converting stuck properties into assets that will benefit their communities.”

“This funding helps municipalities and their partners overcome significant hurdles that would otherwise stand in the way of communities’ goals for economic development,” said Lt. Governor Karyn Polito. “Along with the Site Readiness and MassWorks Programs, the Brownfields Redevelopment Fund is another state resource communities can leverage to fund necessary predevelopment work essential to the advancement and completion of key projects.”

“The Brownfields Redevelopment Fund underscores the BakerPolito Administration’s commitment to building vibrant communities across the Commonwealth,” said Housing and Economic Development Secretary Mike Kennealy. “Not only will this funding help reduce blight and facilitate private investment, but it will also add new housing opportunities and create jobs during the economic recovery.”

MassDevelopment oversees the Brownfields Redevelopment Fund, which helps to transform vacant, abandoned, or underused

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January 2021 The Reporter

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Wanted: Old Christmas decorations. Please donate. Call Debbie at 401-632-3602.

Civil War, WW1, WW2, Anything to do with military; helmets, knives, uniforms, guns, HAVE (license), anything related to wartime, will pay cash for items, ask for Charles, call 508-2306444; call anytime thanks.

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.

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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.

Wash Dry Fold service by Erica! Drop off Monday - Friday 6am to 9am at 257 Bullocks Point Ave., Riverside or by appointment.

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Plants for Sale: Inside and outside; hanging plants, perennials, annuals, herbs, bushes, coleus, ground cover, angel trumpets, begonias, citronella plants & forsythia. Extra large pots available.

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The Reporter January 2021

Business CATEGORY

COMPANY NAME

PAGE

CATEGORY

COMPANY NAME

PAGE

Art Supplies/Framing

Gregory D. Dorrance, Co.

51

Electrician

Bleau Electric

46

Attorney

Laurie P. Mullen, Attorney

30

Electrician

Greaves Electric

31

Attorney

Law Office of Luke P. Travis

45

Electrician

Neal Bellavance Electric

39

Attorney

Stephen E. Navega

22

Farm - Apparel

Kave Rock Farm

22

Auto Body

A-1 Custom Auto Body

47

Fence Installation

Fence Tech

30

Auto Body

Sousa’s Auto Body

24

Fire Restoration

Providence Fire Restoration

10

Auto Body

Tri Star Autobody

32

Firewood

Seekonk Tree Service

33

Auto Parts

NorthEastern Auto Supply

30

Flooring - Wood

David J. Ledoux Hardwood Floors

33

Auto Repairs

New England Tire

3

Fuel - Oil

Al’s Quality Oil Co.

67

Bakery

Montilio’s Baking Company

2

Fuel - Oil

COD OIL

26

Building Contractor

A.M. Carpentry

21

Fuel - Oil

E & V Oil Co.

72

Building Contractor

M.G. Salois Construction

43

Funeral Home

Hathaway Funeral Home

64

Building Contractor

Nerney Construction

18

Funeral Home

J.H. Williams & Co. Funeral Home

63

Carpet Cleaning

M & S Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning 48

Funeral Home

Silva Funeral Home

62

Carpet Cleaning

NAP’S Maintenance Service, Inc.

46

Handyman

American Eagle Enterprises, LLC

13

Child Care

Citizens For Citizens - Head Start

58

Health & Fitness

Complete Fitness

36

Chimney Cleaning

RD Chimney Sweep

31

Heating & Air

Taylor Heating and Air Conditioning 45

Chimney Services

Kenny’s Masonry & Chimney Sweep 69

Hotels

Hotel Tybee

70

Cleaning Service

Debbie’s Cleaning Service

45

Insurance

Metlife Auto and Home

13

Collectibles

Wexler’s Collectibles

41

Insurance Agency

Frazao Insurance

15

Country Club

Hillside Country Club

9

Insurance Agency

Smith Insurance

59

Dance Studio

EDI Empower Dance Industry

13

Junk Removal

AOL Enterprises

28

Dentist

David C. Zaluski, D.D.S.

56

Kitchen/Bath Design

Infinity Kitchens

10

Dentist

Dr. Wassouf D.D.S.

35

Landscape Service

Green Care Landscaping

72

Dentist

George Family Orthodontics

8

Landscape Service

T. Moreshead Landscaping

44

Dentist

Lisa Daft DMD & Associates, PC

16

Marble Fabricators

Star Marble & Granite

39

Dentist

Seekonk Dental

12

Masonry-Construction StoneScapes - Mark Carvalho

35

Dog Training

Pooch Pawsitive

27

Masonry-Construction Valter Rego Masonry

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Driveways & Masonry

DeJesus Driveways

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January 2021 The Reporter

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Directory CATEGORY

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PAGE

CATEGORY

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Orthodontics

George Family Orthodontics

8

Roofing Contractor

B & R Fournier Construction, Inc.

28

Painting Contractor

Advantage Painting

44

Roofing Contractor

Tabeleys Roofing

53

Painting Contractor

Cronan Painting

41

RVs and Campers

Camping World of Berkley

71

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EZ Painting

68

Sandwich Shop

D’Angelo Sandwich Shop

2

Painting Contractor

Iachetti Painting Company

54

Security Systems

Home & Commercial Security

19

Painting Contractor

Lundco Painting LLC.

34

Septic Inspections

Pro Inspection Services

68

Painting Contractor

Val Arruda & Son Painting, Inc.

39

Septic Systems

Bay State Sewage

40

Paving Contractor

Ryan Asphalt Paving

69

Septic Systems

Croome Sanitation, Inc.

67

Personal Trainer

Prime Fitness

38

Septic Systems

Fisk Contracting Co.

32

Physical Therapy

Personal Best Physical Therapy

37

Septic Systems

Soares Sanitation Pumping, Inc.

54

Plastering & Painting

David Laurino - Plastering

43

Septic Systems

Town Sanitation

33

Plumbing & Heating

Sine Plumbing & Heating

41

Smoke Shop

Wonderland Smoke Shop

14

Plumbing & Heating

Vintage Plumbing & Heating

32

Stump Grinding

Heritage Tree & Arborist Services

42

Real Estate

Century 21 - David Smith

11

Tax Preparation

New England Tax Service, Inc.

20

Real Estate

Keystone Property Group

17

Trash/Junk Removal

Big Blue Removal Service

19

Real Estate

Lisa Halajko - ReMax River’s Edge

27

Tree Service

Advanced Tree

18

Real Estate

ReMax Rivers Edge Agents

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Tree Service

Carlson Tree Service

22

Real Estate

Robert DaRocha, Realtor

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Tree Service

Casey Tree Service

27

Real Estate

SellState Superior Realty

47

Tree Service

Choate Tree Service

50

Real Estate

TK Real Estate Brokerage

59

Tree Service

Heritage Tree & Arborist Services

42

Remodeling

Batty Construction

48

Tree Service

Seekonk Tree Service

59

Restaurant

Boneyard Barbecue & Saloon

60

Water Treatment

Olde Colony Clean Water. Inc

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Restaurant

El Mariachi

60

Water Treatment

Water Filter Company, Inc.

21

Restaurant

La Collina

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Wells & Sump Pumps

Vintage Plumbing & Heating

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Restaurant

Madeira Restaurant

60

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The Reporter January 2021

January 2021 The Reporter

Based on 2019 Statistical Surveys

NEW RVs $ AS LOW AS

128

PER MO.* Stk #1855216 - Based on 15% down @ 6.74% APR for 180 mos.

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137 Myricks St. in BERKLEY, MA | 877.499.9710 | RV.com/Boston RV Sales Hours: Monday-Saturday 9am-6pm, Sunday 11am-5pm *Camping World RV Sales price(s) not inclusive of tax, title, license, prep, freight and dealer doc fees. Advertised inventory available at time of printing. New unit photography for illustration purposes only. May not be combined with any other offer and not applicable to prior sales. See dealer for details. © 2020 FreedomRoads, LLC. The CAMPING WORLD logo is a registered trademark of CWI, Inc. and used with permission. Unauthorized use of any of CWI, Inc.’s trademarks is expressly prohibited. All rights reserved. Offers expire 1/31/2021.

BOS37593-0121

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The Reporter January 2021

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

24 HOURS

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Trees, Shrubs & Perennials

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