July 2024 Seekonk Reporter

thinkers leaders performers athletes innovators advocates entrepreneurs

artists competitors adventurers

collaborators engineers musicians educators designers creators

NEW ENGLAND TIRE

• Check Tire Wear

• Check Tire Air Pressure

• Vehicle DNA Check: Check Tires, Brakes and Brake Fluid Condition, Belts, Hoses, Transmission Fluid, Power Steering Fluid, Anti-Freeze, Wipers, Battery, Filters.

PLEASE CALL FOR APPOINTMENT

Includes: • Lube, where applicable • New oil filter installed

• Up to 5 quarts major brand oil

• Special oils & filter types will result in extra charges

• Most U.S. & Import cars

• Regular price

Lube,

• Top Off Coolant & Other Fluids Under the Hood

• Complete Tire Rotation*

• Check Tread Depth on All Four Tires

• Adjust Tire Pressure to Manufacturer's Specs

• Evaluate Brake Condition

• Inspect Battery Terminals & Connections

• Examine All Belts & Hoses

Exceptional Care. Exceptional Moments.

Each birthing experience is unique. Make it personal. We do.

The Sturdy Health Labor & Delivery team is here to provide you and your baby exceptional care, exceptionally close to home. With a TeamBirth approach, our physicians, providers, nurses and neonatologists are excited to support your desired birthing experience. Relax in our spacious, private birthing suite with aromatherapy, or labor in the hydrotherapy tub. All with peace of mind, knowing expert clinicians and anesthesiologists are at the ready. Everything you need for your moment, your way. Welcome, little one!

At Sturdy Health, we offer:

• Spacious birthing suites with private bathrooms and showers

• Neonatal services

• Skin-to-Skin newborn care

• Delayed cord clamping

• Wireless fetal monitoring for freedom of movement

• Nitrous oxide for use during labor or special procedures

• On-site access to breast milk bank for immediate bridge or long term feeding

• Breastfeeding support by Nationally Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLC)

• A dedicated nurse throughout your labor, delivery, recovery and postpartum journey

• Nurses specially trained in antenatal triage, labor and delivery, postpartum and nursery care

To schedule your private tour, please dial (508) 236-7250

www.SturdyHealth.org/LaborandDelivery

Letters to the Editor...

The letters in this section and opinion articles do not reflect the views of the staff of The Rehoboth Reporter. It is not our intent to take sides on any issues, but to present all arguments from all points of view. If your point of view is not represented on an issue, it is only because you have not voiced your opinion. Let us hear from YOU!

From The Rehoboth Food Pantry

Hello from the Rehoboth Food Pantry! As we transition into summer, the food pantry is facing significant challenges moving into the summer and fall. The Rehoboth Food Pantry has been part of the Rehoboth Community for decades. The Pantry provides confidential food and fuel assistance to any Rehoboth resident that finds themselves in need of assistance. Unfortunately, the fight against hunger continues and our pantry plays a key role in helping ensure food security for many here in Rehoboth.

Your Pantry is currently experiencing an increase in demand for food. Records for the past six months have shown a steady increase in food going out our doors. This spring, we distributed over 1600 bags of food! It’s great that we were able to meet this need, however our pantry is also experiencing declining donations of both food and monetary donations. The current situation raises concerns here at the pantry. There are many contributing factors, fewer food drives being sponsored, an inflationary economy, and an increase in the demand for our services. If you think about it, the pantry faces many of the same challenges as your household budget, especially when it comes to food or fuel.

Our challenge to our fellow Rehoboth residents is asking for your help in a manner you are comfortable doing: Run a food drive, donate food at one of our many food drop off locations, send us a monetary donation so we can stretch our food buying dollars at the subsidized Greater Boston Food Bank, or even volunteer at the pantry. These are challenging times, and the pantry provides valuable assistance to our neighbors in need right here in Rehoboth. How can you help?

The town has a long history supporting our neighbors in need. Please consider donating, food, money, or time. Thank you for your continued support, the Rehoboth Food Pantry is a registered 501c3 charity, our address is Rehoboth Food Pantry, 51 Winthrop St Unit 2, Rehoboth, MA 02769. We can also be found on the web, Facebook or give us a call 508-493-1922.

Sincerely, Bob Brawley

President Rehoboth Food Pantry

rehobothfoodpantryma.org

Please Note:

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

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

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

Email: news@reportertoday.com

Rehoboth: Patriotic flowers by Earle Dias Photography

Seekonk: Cheryl and Jeff (Uncle Sam) Faria with the Master Gardener’s float in the Memorial Day parade in May.

P.O. Box 377 Rehoboth, MA 02769

© 2018 Target Marketing Group, Inc.

We welcome all ideas, photos, articles, news releases and notices that affect these areas.

We reserve the right to refuse any submission, including classified/display advertising. ALL NEWS ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY THE 25TH OF THE MONTH

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

The Reporter is MAILED FREE TO THE TOWNS OF REHOBOTH AND SEEKONK twelve months a year. Subscriptions are available outside our distribution area.

Rehoboth Town News

Hello All ~ Happy July. I can’t believe we are more than half way through 2024. I also can’t believe eleven full years have passed since I became your Town Clerk. Thank you for another exciting, interesting, challenging, and informative year!

Street Listings

We received the Annual Street Listings based on the 2024 Census data we gathered this year. If you would like a copy, there is a $15.00 charge. You may purchase at town hall or online at https://www.invoicecloud.com/rehobothgovsvcs and click on Street Listings.

Non-Respondents To The 2024 Rehoboth Annual Town Census

As per Massachusetts General Law, if you have not responded to the yearly census, your voter status must legally change to inactive as of the first Monday in June. Therefore, the Clerk’s Office sent out 2,063 voter confirmation cards last month to reinstate those voters who did not return their 2024 Census. We are required by law to either receive your yearly signed census or the recently mailed confirmation card must be completed, signed (very important) and returned to us in order to reactive your “active” voting status. We did place return postage on the return confirmation card. Please either mail (postage stamp is already on the reply card) or drop off your signed confirmation card at the Town Hall drop box, or our office, as soon as possible so we may reactivate your voting status. Please note, unless you returned your yearly census or the signed confirmation card you received stating you still live in the Town of Rehoboth, you will need to provide proof of continuous residency before being allowed to vote in any federal, state, or town election and/or town meeting. Last year we mailed 1,991 voter confirmation/inactivation cards to those Rehoboth voters who did not complete their Annual Town Census. Unfortunately, we increased that number this year by an additional 72; total of 2,063 voters who did not return their 2024 Census. Please remember, we have the Presidential Election in November; therefore, you will want to make sure your voting status is “active” when you show up at the polls or town meeting. For those individuals who feel the confirmation cards are a waste of Town money, please know we are required to send them by law. Those cards are only sent after two 2nd request census forms are mailed and our Board of Registrars called your home informing you we did not receive your yearly Census due by January 31st. If you don’t want to receive a voter confirmation/inactivation card in the future, simply return your completed yearly census by January 31, each year. Thank you.

Business Certificates

Business owners are reminded that the application fee for a business certificate and/ or business certificate renewal is $50.00 and that your certificate is valid for four years. If your business license is expiring within the next six months, you should have received your renewal letters and applications during the month of June. Please send in your notarized business certificate renewal, along with payment or stop by so we can notarize your signature and provide you with an updated business certificate. Thank you and we wish you well with your business.

Dog Licenses

All dog licenses were due and payable by April 1st. Unfortunately, a $15.00 late fee was assessed for any licenses that were not renewed by June 1st, after a 60-day grace period. We still have 423 dogs that are unlicensed for this year, which is down 177 from last year. Total licensed dogs so far in 2024 is 1,876 as of July 1, 2024. Please Note: A non-criminal citation with an additional charge of $25.00 will be issued for any dogs that are not licensed by July 15th, so please, license your dog(s) to avoid any further late charges. If you were one of the 423 dog owners who received reminder postcards last month, please renew your dog’s license before the added expense of $25 is added to their dog’s license fee. If your dog has a valid rabies vaccine, you may register your dog online at www.RehobothMA.gov – click on “Online Payments” or go directly to: https://permiteyes.us/rehoboth/publichome.php

Laura Schwall

to renew your dog(s) 2023 license. If you prefer to pay in person or drop off your payment in the drop box at Town Hall, 340 Anawan Street, that is also an option. If, unfortunately, your dog has moved or passed away, please let us know by phone 508-252-6502 X-3112 or X-3109, email TownClerk@RehobothMA.gov or by checking the Permiteyes website listed above and check off the box moved/ deceased to update our database; we are so sorry for your loss. Thanks so much.

license your dog(s) to avoid any further late charges. If you were one of the 423 dog owners who received reminder postcards last month, please renew your dog’s license before the added expense of $25 is added to their dog’s license fee. If your dog has a valid rabies vaccine, you may register your dog online at www.RehobothMA.gov – click on “Online Payments” or go directly to: https://permiteyes.us/rehoboth/publichome.php to renew your dog(s) 2023 license. If you prefer to pay in person or drop off your payment in the drop box at Town Hall, 340 Anawan Street, that is also an option If, unfortunately, your dog has moved or passed away, please let us know by phone 508-252-6502 X-3112 or X-3109, email TownClerk@RehobothMA.gov or by checking the Permiteyes website listed above and check off the box moved/deceased to update our database; we are so sorry for your loss Thanks so much.

June 4, 2024 Annual Town Meeting Update

JUNE 4, 2024 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING UPDATE

Rehoboth June 4, 2024 Annual Town Meeting (ATM) Francis Farm Community Complex - Museum Building 7:00 PM ~ 8:39 PM

(To refer to the 6-4-2024 ATM Warrant, please go to: https://www.rehobothma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif4911/f/pages/rehoboth_june_4_2024_warrant_da_515-24_final_copy.pdf )

Article Number Vote

ANNUAL TOWN MEETING: Town Meeting-Convened @ 7:00 p.m.

Article # 1

Annual Town Surplus Equipment Auction Authorization

Article #2

Set Salaries and Compensation of Elected Officials

Article #3

Board of Health Transfer Station Offset Receipts

Article #4

Reauthorize Revolving Accounts Expenditures

Article # 5

Community Preservation Budget & Appropriation of Monies from Community Preservation Fund Annual Revenues

Voted by 2/3rds vote to authorize the disposal of surplus Town equipment and materials from any Town departments by bid, auction or scrap pursuant to Massachusetts General Law Chapter 30B, or by donation or other disposition pursuant to applicable laws

Voted by 2/3rds vote as printed in the Warrant

Voted by 2/3rds vote to reauthorize an “Offset Receipts” account for the solid waste handling facility and recycling area and its operation. The fiscal year 2025 expenditures shall be limited to $152,400.00

Voted by 2/3rds vote to authorize the total expenditure limits for the revolving funds as printed in the warrant.

Voted by 2/3rds vote to approve the Community Preservation Budget & Appropriation of Monies from Community Preservation Fund Annual Revenues as printed in the warrant.

Article #6 Acceptance of Report Approved by 2/3rds vote - as Printed in the Warrant

Article #7

General Bylaw-Adopt Renumbering and Recaptioning of the General Bylaws

Article #8

Zoning Bylaw-Adopt Renumbering and Recaptioning of the Zoning Bylaws

Article #9

Fiscal Year 2025 Town Budget Recommendations from the Finance Committee – Acceptance of Report

Article #10

Fiscal Year 2025 Dighton Rehoboth Regional School Budget

Article #11

Fiscal Year 2025 Bristol Plymouth Regional Technical High School Budget

Article #12

Fiscal Year 2025 Bristol County Agricultural High School Budget

Article #13

Contribute to Capital Stabilization Fund

Voted by 2/3rds vote to renumber and recaption the General Bylaws of the Town by (a) assigning a chapter/article number to each of the General Bylaws; (b) renumbering each section of each bylaw accordingly; (c) inserting chapter, article, section and subsection titles; and (d) updating internal references to reflect the new numbering system, all as set forth in the Final Draft of the Code of the Town of Rehoboth, dated April 2024, on file with the Town Clerk

Voted by 2/3rds vote to renumber and recaption the Zoning Bylaw of the Town by (a) designating the Zoning Bylaw as Chapter 270 of the Code of the Town of Rehoboth; (b) renumbering each section and subsection of the bylaw accordingly; (c) inserting article, section and subsection titles; and (d) updating internal references to reflect the new numbering system, all as set forth in the Final Draft of the Code of the Town of Rehoboth dated April 2024, on file with the Town Clerk.

Meridia Electronic EZ-Vote 5 Keypad Count: *2/3rds Vote Received-Zoning Bylaw AmendmentsYES = 144 NO = 6 TOTAL = 250

Voted unanimously to receive the report of the Finance Committee, and to raise from taxation the amount of $14,125,713 and transfer from free cash the amount of $47,573 for a total of $14,173,286 as described in the Report of the Finance Committee to defray the expenses of Town government and for the ensuing fiscal year and to make all appropriations therefore.

Voted unanimously, to receive the report of the Finance Committee, and to raise from taxation, the sum of $22,824,650, and transfer from free cash the amount of $77,619 for a total of $22,902,269 as described in the Report of the Finance Committee, to pay the assessments of the Dighton/Rehoboth Regional School System, for the ensuing fiscal year and to make all appropriations therefore.

Voted unanimously, to receive the report of the Finance Committee, and to raise from taxation, the sum of $985,753, and transfer from free cash the amount of $123,393 for a total of $1,109,146 as described in the Report of the Finance Committee, to defray the expenses of Bristol Plymouth Regional Technical High School for the ensuing fiscal year and to make all appropriations therefore.

Voted unanimously, to receive the report of the Finance Committee, and to raise from taxation, the sum of $140,595, and transfer from free cash the amount of $209,288.10 for a total of $349,883.10 as described in the Report of the Finance Committee, to defray the expenses for Bristol County Agricultural High School for the ensuing fiscal year and to make all appropriations therefore.

Voted by majority vote to receive the report of the Finance Committee, and to transfer from free cash the amount of $750,000 into the town’s capital stabilization fund to ensure funds are available for future capital needs in the Town.

Article #14 Cannabis Stabilization Fund

Article #15

PEG Access and Cable Fund Pursuant to MGL C.44 S. 53F 3/4

Article #16

Fiscal Year 2025 – Capital Budget - Town

Article #17

Fiscal Year 2025 Capital Budget – Police Radio Upgrade

Article #18

Fiscal Year 2025 Capital Budget –Ambulance Services

Article #19

Fiscal Year 2025 Capital Budget –Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Committee

Article #20

Transfer $30,000 for the FY2025 Certification of Values

Article #21

CPC Funds from the Open Space and Recreational Funds for Related Purchase of an All-Ages Playground

Article #22

Palmer River Church Yard – Lake Family Lot

Article #23

Meeting House Memorial Garden –Lake Family Lot

Article #24

Amendment of Land Purchase Voted on Warrant Article 17 of the Fiscal Year 2024

CPC Purchase of 44 Bliss Street from the May 9, 2023 Warrant

Article #25

Amendment of Land Purchase Voted on Warrant 16 of the Fiscal Year 2024 CPC Purchase of 165 Fairview Avenue from the May 9, 2023 Warrant

Article #26

Ratify Vote on Agreement between TOR and South Fire Station Association Warrant

Article 7 of the Fiscal Year 2024 Special Town Meeting

Article #27

Street Acceptances: O’Hern Way and Dublin Road

Voted by majority vote to receive the report of the Finance Committee, and to transfer from free cash the amount of $342,430 into the Town’s FY22 Stabilization Cannabis Fund.

Voted unanimously to approve the appropriation, pursuant to MGL Chapter 44, Sec. 53F¾, the amount of $330,000 from the PEG Access and Cable Fund for the operation and capital budget for the PEG and Cable Access Department

Voted unanimously, as amended, to appropriate from free cash, the amount of $359,523* for the purpose of funding FY25 Capital Improvements, as listed in the Warrant. *Typo in warrant noted and corrected at the 6-4-2024 Annual Town Meeting

Voted unanimously, to table Article 17 for purposes of defeat – received ARPA grant for upgrade.

Voted by majority vote, to appropriate from free cash, the amount of $200,000 for the purpose of funding or supporting ambulance services for the Town

Voted unanimously, to appropriate from free cash, the amount of $45,000 for the purpose of reimbursing the actual cost, upon completion and inspection of a phone system upgrade – E911 for Beckwith Middle School and Palmer River Elementary School and proportionate share of the Dighton Rehoboth Regional High School.

Voted by majority vote to allow the Board of Assessors to transfer from overlay surplus the sum of $30,000 for the contracting of the fy2025 revaluing and certifying assessed valuation of the town as mandated by the State of Massachusetts to comply with Proposition 2 ½.

Voted unanimously to approve the expenditure of $300,000 from the town’s open space and recreational community preservation funds, for the purchase of an all-ages playground system. This purchase will support passive recreational use, located at Francis Farm

Voted unanimously to approve the expenditure of $3,350 from the Town’s historical preservation-community preservation funds, service of Oak Hill Engineering to survey and record the cemetery lot at Palmer River Churchyard, known as Lake Family lot.

Voted unanimously to table Article 23 for further review

Voted by majority vote, as amended*, to supplement prior approval of Article 17 of the May 9, 2023 Town Meeting to include the authorization for the board of selectmen to accept, acquire, purchase or take by eminent domain or otherwise acquire, 14 acres off bliss street, lot 1, for preservation a passive recreational use.

*Amendment: removal of language “or take by eminent domain”, which was approved by majority vote, per Moderator.

Voted by majority vote, as amended*, to supplement prior approval of Article 16 of the May 9, 2023 Town Meeting to include the authorization for the board of selectmen to accept, acquire, purchase or take by eminent domain or otherwise acquire, 34 acres off 165 Fairview Avenue, part of map 57, lot 31, for preservation a passive recreational use.

*Amendment: removal of language “or take by eminent domain”, which was approved by majority vote, per Moderator

Voted by 2/3rds vote, as declared by Moderator, to ratify and supplement prior approval of Article 7 of the November 7, 2023 Special Town Meeting to include the authorization of the Board of Selectmen to convey the entire property located off Martin Street having a parcel ID as 9/27, and further that the Board of Selectmen shall be authorized to enter into any and all agreements necessary to effectuate the same.

Voted by two-thirds vote, as declared by the Moderator, to accept as town public ways O’Hern Way and Dublin Road, as described in the warrant and to authorize the Board of Selectmen to accept or take by eminent domain deeds or easements to use such public way for all purposes for which public ways are used in the Town of Rehoboth and further to acquire related drainage, utility and other related easements, as may be necessary. Further, to authorize the transfer from free cash of $1500 to pay for title and other expenses that may arise

Article #28

Street Acceptances: Skyla Way and Kaylee Drive

Article #29

Street Acceptances: Linden Lane, Willow Way and Primrose Lane

Article #30

Rehoboth Zoning Bylaw Amendment to Article 2.0 Definitions and Article 4.0 Use Regulations

Article #31

General Bylaws – Adopt Bylaw – Sale of Tax Title Properties

Article #32

Transact Other Business as May Legally Come Before Said Meeting

and

Voted by two-thirds vote, as declared by the Moderator, to accept as town public ways Skyla Way and Kaylee Drive as described in the warrant and to authorize the Board of Selectmen to accept or take by eminent domain deeds or easements to use such public way for all purposes for which public ways are used in the Town of Rehoboth and further to acquire related drainage, utility and other related easements, as may be necessary. Further, to authorize the transfer from free cash of $1500 to pay for title and other expenses that may arise.

Voted by two-thirds vote, as declared by the Moderator, to accept as town public ways Linden Lane, Willow Way and Primrose Lane as described in the warrant and to authorize the Board of Selectmen to accept or take by eminent domain deeds or easements to use such public way for all purposes for which public ways are used in the Town of Rehoboth and further to acquire related drainage, utility and other related easements, as may be necessary. Further, to authorize the transfer from free cash of $1500 to pay for title and other expenses that may arise.

Voted by two-thirds vote, as declared by the Moderator, to table Article 30 based on advice of Town Counsel.

Voted unanimously, as amended*, to amend the Town’s General Bylaws by adding a new Section 5 to Chapter F, General Provisions, Article I – As listed in the Warrant *Added Cemetery and Park Commissions to paragraph 4

Voted unanimously to dissolve the June 4, 2024 Annual Town Meeting at 8:39 PM.

Dighton-Rehoboth Class of ‘74

50th Class Reunion

We are currently planning our 50th class reunion!!! (Can you believe it??) Looking for all classmates!!

Please join our FaceBook Page for up-to-date information D-R Class of 74 50th Reunion Page

Not on FaceBook? Please email us:

Sue Munroe Darling: suzdarling777@yahoo.com

Elwell Perry: Elwellperry@yahoo.com

Russ Perrin: Rustyp74@icloud.com

David J. Ledoux

HARDWOOD FLOORS

Seekonk, MA

DUSTLESS HARDWOOD REFINISHING

Installation - Sanding - Refinishing - Prefinished ***Quality Craftsmanship*** "Proudly serving the community for over 20 years"

Office: 508-399-6211

Cell: 508-272-7729

Owner/Operator Fully Insured

Massachusetts Town Clerk’s Association MTCA Classes – June 5-7

Well, Jenn, Kerrie and I have certainly been busy taking classes in Plymouth and advocating for future elections at the State House this month. On Wednesday, June 5th through Friday, June 7th the Town Clerk’s Office attended a 3-day workshop learning how to better serve the public through the expertise of several State Officials. The Massachusetts City and Town Clerk’s Association held its Summer 2024 Conference where Jenn, Kerrie and I were able to take the following courses:

Election Potpourri – Presenter – Michelle Tassinari – Director and Legal Counsel, Elections Division of the Commonwealth. This session was very helpful to all City and Town Clerks as we learned of the numerous updates in our roles as Chief Election Official. Michelle presented a segment on “What We Learned from the Presidential Primary”, as well as a review of early voting, inactive voters, provisional voters, and UOCAVA ballots. We also learned about several new changes being made to the current Voter Resident Information System (VRIS) enabling us to be better prepared for the State Primary and Presidential Election. As an aside, your Rehoboth Town Clerk’s Office is currently testing the new VRIS computer program for the Commonwealth, which will be launched at the end of 2024. We are among only a handful of Cities/Towns who have the honor of being asked to test the new program. We have been working with the State on this project since 2022.

Vitals / VIP/MAVRIC – Presenter Alex Foreman, Director of Massachusetts Department of Public Health – Registry of Vital Records and Statistics. The Commonwealth also introduced a new Vitals computer program for all Board of Health and City/Town Clerk’s offices during the month of May. An overview of the Massachusetts Vital Records Information Collaborative (MAVRIC) - the new electronic death registration system was presented we also participated in a “sandbox” environment so we could test the new system prior to actually processing Burial Permits and Death Certificates. MAVRIC offers a more streamlined processes, enhanced features, reduced reliance on paper, and it will replace the existing Vitals Information Partnership (VIP) system. August is the launch date for the old VIP program to be removed and replaced with the MAVRIC module. This hands-on opportunity was a great way to work through what is involved with working in MAVRIC. Wish us luck.

Open Meeting Law – Presenter – KP Law - This course offered a review of the Open Meeting Law to include the statutory open meeting posting requirements, minutes, and exemptions. Discussion also included information regarding executive sessions, using social media, open meeting law complaints and any updates on new changes to the Open Meeting Law. We will be sharing what we learned in this class with Department Heads and Rehoboth’s Boards & Committees. Very helpful information presented.

Election Day Incident Plan – Presenters Mike Ste. Marie, Election Security Partnership (ESP) Program Manager, Michelle Tassinari, Director and Legal Counsel, Elections Division of the Commonwealth and Keryn Cadogan, Chief Information Officer, Secretary of State’s Office - We joined the ESP Team for a table top exercise on preparing an Election Incident Plan. This plan covered different scenarios, that could happen on Election Day, and provided solutions and best practices to follow. This class was awesome and will better prepare us should an unfortunate event occur on Election Day. All participants left with a plan that can be used on Election Day. Very informative class!

Public Records – Presenter: Senior Attorney Jeff Gottfredsen of the Public Records Division – Attorney Gottfredsen, discussed public records access, requests for records, and the appeals process, covering issues commonly encountered by Town/City Clerks. Specific topics included: timelines for responding to requests, what must be included in the response, when fees may be assessed, petitions to the Supervisor of Records regarding fees and time

extensions, what is a “public record,” and common exemptions that permit redaction and withholding of records. Digital Archivist Elizabeth O’Connell was also present and discussed using digitization to enhance our records management program. The Secretary of the State’s Office is responsible for securing, preserving and managing digital records at the State level. As such, Ms. O’Connell discussed the importance of digitization of many of the records City and Town Clerks maintains in our offices. The class included taking intellectual control of records, prepping for digitization, best practices, file-naming conventions, maintenance of digital files, and how digital records are treated by law.

Recount/Audit – Presenter: Lauren Goldberg – Managing Attorney – KP Law – Lauren walked us through a recount, how to prepare, and what to expect. Since this is a Presidential Election year, Lauren also provided a strong foundation for any possible Election Audits, which our Town may be chosen for after the Presidential Election. I am happy to say, during the 2020 Election Rehoboth was randomly chosen for a State Audit, as per MGL, and Rehoboth’s totals balanced to the numbers certified.

All the classes were informative and helpful to the Town Clerk’s Office. What an awesome experience. We will share the helpful information we learned with other Departments, Boards and Committees.

In closing, Kerrie, Jenn and I hope you had a wonderful 4th of July and wish you a happy, healthy, safe, and memorable summer! Please stay healthy and safe!! I look forward to chatting with you again in August. Speaking of August, please do not forget taxes are due Thursday, August 1st .

Sincerely, Laura

Rehoboth Animal Shelter News

The Rehoboth Animal Shelter is currently home to Nugget and Lucy, a bonded pair of two-year-old small dogs. Nugget is a neutered male chihuahua-dachshund mix, and Lucy is a spayed female chihuahua. For more information, or to make an appointment, e-mail a.ruscetta@comcast.net. More information about adoptable pets at the shelter is online at Petfinder.com. To report a lost or found pet, or for more information, call 508-252-5421, ext. 126 and leave a message.

Animal Shelter Nugget and Lucy

LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD!

PUBLIC FORUM - WED. JULY 24th @ 7:00pm

Francis farm - museum meeting room

Rehoboth Animal Shelter Donation

Bridget Ottone had a craft fair and a bake sale on May 18 at Flynn Pest Control with all proceeds benefiting the animal shelter. She raised $508 for the Shelter.

Patience Looking for a Home

Patience is a two-year-old sweet shy kitty. Her kittens have been adopted so now is her turn to be in a home. Patience will need time to adjust and chill out. For more information or an application email a.ruscetta@ comcast.net

Bridget Ottone handing her donation to Rob Johnson for the animal shelter

Stories of Dighton Soldiers in The American Revolution

This is the third in a series of stories about local soldiers that served in the American Revolution.

As we prepare to celebrate our 250th year of independence it seems a good time to share some stories of these patriots.

These stories are about Dighton patriots. In March 1775 the town meeting voted to raise two companies of Minutemen to join the local militia companies. All able-bodied men from 16 to 60 were required to serve in the militia. The local drill field was in the area where the present day elementary and middle schools are located.

A Rehoboth Commander, Colonel Timothy Walker had over 500 local soldiers in his unit at the Siege of Boston. The unit was the 22nd Regiment of the United Colonies. The soldiers were from local towns Rehoboth, Attleboro, Dighton, Norton, Taunton. Easton and Raynham This unit was formed in July 1775 and disbanded in

January 1776. Some soldiers served for 3 or 6 months as needed. In January of 1776 General Washington reorganized the Army and new regiments were formed.

The Dighton records indicate there were 46 soldiers who served at the siege of Boston in Captain Peter Pitts Company, officers were Lt. Zebedee Redding and Ensign Henry Briggs. Captain Samuel Tubbs and Ensign Joel Trubbs had 5 men in their Company. They were all stationed at Roxbury to confine the British in Boston.

The following stories are about soldiers that served in the 22nd Regiment of the United Colonies.

The Rehoboth Minutemen portray members of this unit. What is why we are sharing some stories of the soldiers that formed the unit in 1775.

Thomas Rose was born in Dighton to Thomas (1729-1808) and Prudence (Blake) (1734-1816) Rose on February 21, 1758. He joined his 6 brothers and sisters

Dr. Lisa Daft

Dr. Gian Calandrelli

Dr. Lisa Daft and Dr. Jared Stubbs

announce Dr. Chris Vanderpool has

On May 2, 1775, he enlisted in Captain Peter Pitts Company, Colonel Timothy Walkers Regiment. He served for three months. In February 1776 he enlisted in Capt Samuel Tubbs Company, Colonel Freeman’s Regiment for 2 months. In December 1776 we found him in Captain Elijah Walker’s Company, Colonel Pope Bristol County Regiment. He marched from Dighton in defense of Rhode Island.

In the spring of 1777 Thomas joined the navy as an American Privateer. He shipped on the frigate American Tartar. This ship had a crew of 200 men. She carried 56 deck guns ranging from 3 to 9 pounders. This was a ship of the Massachusetts Navy. The captain was John Grimes. During 1777 she took 9 ships as prizes. Her luck ran out in August of 1777 when she was captured off the coast of Norway. There are two stories about how Thomas got home. The crew was taken to Halifax then Newfoundland and held there until February of 1779. They were being sent to New York when the ship was captured by an American ship. Thomas and other prisoners were taken to Marblehead. From here he made his way home to Dighton. The second story has him in a prison in England. He is released at the end of the war. He travels on ships from foreign countries. He finally gets to Newport. R.I. His brother met him and helped him travel home. The most important part is he did get home.

On October 30, 1790, Thomas married Hannah Atwood (1762- 1825) They settled down in Dighton and raised a family of 6 children. Thomas, Hannah, Joseph, Betsey, Samuel and Polly

As his family grew with children, grandchildren and great grandchildren I bet Thomas has many stories to share about his time as both a soldier and sailor in the American Revolution

Thomas died 29th of March 1855 at the age of 97. He was buried in the Walker-Blake Graveyard

Darius Briggs was a member of the prominent Briggs family of Dighton. Many

members of this family were patriots who served during the War for Independence. The Dighton records list 16 members of the Briggs family who served in the American Revolution.

Darius and his twin sister Deliverance were born in Dighton to Matthew 1710-1763 and Mary Pitts Briggs 1712-1774 on November 12, 1754. They joined 8 brothers and sisters.

When the war started Darius enlisted on May 2, 1775, he was mustered into service on August 1, 1775. He enlisted in Captain Peter Pitts Company, Colonel Timothy Walker’s Regiment. Darius did not join as a soldier but as a musician. He was a drummer. Drummers have been an important part of armies for centuries. Drums were the way orders were relayed to the soldiers. A drummer was assigned to an officer. Any commands the officer wanted to give were played on the drum. The beats of the drum carried for a great distance. Drummers did not carry a gun. Sometimes a sword for protection.

Guaranteed Gifts Await Us on the Trail

- by Dan Lanier

Whenever we venture outdoors, and if we take care to be receptive, without fail we will encounter some sort of gift. The natural world will always reward vigilant and mindful explorers with treasures that offer our senses a treat and reaffirm our connections to the landscape. Rehoboth Land Trust’s properties give us opportunities to experience the simple joys that await us on the trail.

One morning in June 2023, during a visit to RLT’s Mason Street Conservation Area, as I headed down trail toward the Palmer River, I spotted a creature in the middle of the path. A feathered mass lay nestled down within a depression in the grass. At first glance I thought it might be an injured bird, but shortly it became clear that it showed no signs of physical distress. Soon, I recognized it as an adult wild turkey, and noticed little camouflaged bodies moving furtively in the grass under the mother’s sheltering wings. Surprised by my arrival, the hen released her little group of poults to go scurrying to the edge of the trail as she fluttered into the nearby brush. There the little ones settled briefly among the clover (long enough

for me to get a photograph) before going deeper into the underbrush, peeping away to keep mother informed of their whereabouts.

So came and went a magical moment in nature, a gift such as each of us may experience on any given day simply by stepping outside and enjoying what the day has to offer.

**Do you have a memory like this from a visit to an RLT property? Share your RLT story, including any related photos, directly on our Facebook page, or email us at info@ rehobothlandtrust.net. Your story might be the next one we feature in our newsletter or printed in the Reporter!

Rehoboth Democratic Town Committee Endorses Joe Pacheco for State Senate, Third Bristol & Plymouth District

Rehoboth - Rehoboth Democratic Town Committee (RDTC) announces its endorsement of Joe Pacheco, Candidate for the Third Bristol & Plymouth State Senate seat.

“Joe Pacheco already has a proven track record of Public Service throughout the District,” said RDTC Chair Paul Jacques. “Joe’s unwavering commitment to Rehoboth will be second to none. We look forward to his future accomplishments for Rehoboth after the upcoming elections.”

Joseph R. Pacheco is a lifelong Raynham, Massachusetts resident who is continuing a family tradition of public service that has extended over one hundred years and four generations.

Continued on next page...

Celebrating 50 Years!

Poults camouflaged in the clover

Pacheco has served at the Local, County and State Government levels over his career. A former Staff Director in the Massachusetts House of Representatives, and later an Administrator in the Executive Office of Health and Human Services, Pacheco has served in Local Government since 2005. In 2007, Joe was elected to his first term as Selectman where he presently is serving in his sixth term and is Dean of the Board by virtue of his status as being the longest tenured Member.

VICTORIA DORAN

President RIAR 2013, Broker Associate Liscensed in MA & RI

(401) 458-2160 Cell victoriadoran.remax@gmail.com

Happy 4th of July and Enjoy the Rest of Your Summer!

AARON DORAN

Sales Associate, Liscensed in MA & RI (401) 864-1644 Cell

Joe was appointed to his first office as a Commissioner for Economic & Business Development. In that role Joe worked aggressively with his colleagues to ensure Raynham stays competitive in attracting new businesses. Joe understands the importance of long-term financial planning as well. Six months after his appointment as a Raynham Economic Development Commissioner, Joe joined the Town’s Capital Planning Committee. From this post he worked with other Town leaders to maintain quality services through prudent fiscal planning.

Joe Pacheco has also been endorsed by Senator Marc Pacheco. The primary will occur on September 3, 2024. The general election will occur on November 5, 2024.

For more information about the Rehoboth Democratic Town Committee please visit us on FB @RehobothDTC.

Committee to Elect Joe Pacheco State Senate at josephpacheco.org

Rehoboth Selectmen Complain About ‘Dangerous’ Roundabout Work

By Joe Siegel

Work on the new roundabout at the intersection of Rt.44/118 will not be resuming until mid-July, according to Rehoboth Selectman George Solas.

Solas explained work can not continue until Verizon moves their wire from the old telephone poles to the new poles. The company said they will not be moving their wires until July 11, Solas said at the June 17 meeting. “After the wires are moved, the poles have to be taken down. Essentially, we are missing a whole summer almost of getting our roundabout back. It’s not our issue, it’s not the town because we don’t control it. It’s not the (Massachusetts Department of Transportation), it’s Verizon not fulfilling their commitment. This just sucks.”

“We care about that road being made passable,” said Chairman Skip Vadnais. “It’s a dangerous situation.”

“I don’t know how they could patch an intersection like that,” said Selectman Lenny Mills. “That intersection is patched so poorly that it’s dangerous. It literally is dangerous for small vehicles and motorcycles.”

Mills also reported seeing nails and metal from construction on the roadway. The Highway Department was contacted to clean up the debris under Mills’ orders. “It’s a mess over there,” Mills added. “That’s a terrible patch. It needs to be addressed.”

Solas suggested that the board send a letter to State Rep. Steve Howitt, R-Seekonk, to pressure Verizon to move the poles as soon as possible.

The $4 million project will involve utility pole upgrades, drainage improvements, roadway lighting, pedestrian and bicycle accommodations, and traffic signal removal, according to the District 5 Highway Division of MassDOT.

The project is being broken up into four stages, each with its own long-term Traffic Management Plan. Drivers who are traveling through the area are advised to expect delays, reduce speed, and to use caution.

Town officials had expected the project to be completed in July 2025.

SEEKONK DENTAL

Rehoboth Selectman Praises Town Employees

By Joe Siegel

Rehoboth Selectman Lenny Mills expressed their gratitude for the work of town employees at a meeting last month.

“The Police Department continues to do a great job with the new hire, the Acting Chief of Police (Louis DiBacco),” said Mills. “The parade they did was commendable, they had the most enthusiasm, the most volunteers I’ve seen and they’ve seen in a long time.”

“The Building Maintenance Department continues to amaze all of us with what they do with not a lot of staff,” Mills noted. “They’re really working hard, Mike Viveiros and his group. They’re working on the vault at Town Hall, which we expected to see completed in 30 days or so, pending any unforeseen issues.”

Mills was also pleased about the existence of clean water at the Council on Aging at Francis Farm.

“When I (was elected) 24 months ago, this place could not use the water,” Mills said. “It took 24 months of working with an engineer, the Department of Environmental Protection, the water division, and the plumbers and the water analysis people and (town officials) to get the water up and running. It’s been a long haul. They’re doing a great job.”

Planning Board Vows to Fight Multifamily Housing

By Joe Siegel

The Rehoboth Planning Board has vowed to fight a state mandate regarding multi-family housing. The deadline for compliance is December 31, 2025.

“If we don’t comply, there are ramifications,” Director of Finance Sue Pimental said at the June 5 meeting.

“I don’t think the state should be coming in and telling us we have to put in multi-family housing,” said Town Planner Lynne Ferreira. “The market should dictate what goes in.”

The MBTA Communities Act requires 177 cities and towns in Eastern Massachusetts — designated as rapid transit, commuter rail, adjacent, and adjacent small town communities — to rezone near T stops to allow for multi-family housing as of right. “As of right” means multi-family housing would be allowed to go up in the rezoned areas without special permits or other discretionary processes.

Each designation also determines a different minimum of multi-family unit capacity. For rapid transit communities, it’s at least 25 percent of all housing units in the community, 15 percent for commuter rail communities, 10 percent for adjacent communities, and 5 percent for adjacent small towns. At a minimum, this is approximately 15 units per acre.

“I’m definitely against it,” said Chairman Patrick Landry. “We’re all going to work together and fight this.”

Member Edward Bertozzi believes the availability of clean water in town should be a higher priority. “I don’t see how 15 living units per acre could possibly be done without ruining the water,” Bertozzi said.

“If you want your kids to be able to afford to live here in Massachusetts, if you want to be able to continue to live in Massachusetts as you get older, if you want our companies and our businesses growing and expanding, we need housing across the state,” Governor Maura Healey told reporters before the town of Milton voted against the rezoning. “We need communities like Milton and communities across the state to do what needs doing in terms of creating more housing opportunities.”

A public forum will be held in July to provide more information about the issue.

“We want everyone to be heard,” said member Lenny Mills.

Vadnais Warns About Impact of MBTA Zoning

By Joe Siegel

The state’s multi-family housing mandate would have a “derogatory” impact on the town of Rehoboth, Selectmen Chair Skip Vadnais said at a meeting last month.

There will be a public forum on Wednesday, July 24 at 7 pm in the Museum meeting room at Francis Farm. The town’s legal counsel will be available to answer questions from board members and residents.

The MBTA Communities Act requires 177 cities and towns in Eastern Massachusetts — designated as rapid transit, commuter rail, adjacent, and adjacent small town communities — to rezone near T stops to allow for multi-family housing as of right. “As of right” means multi-family housing would be allowed to go up in the rezoned areas without special permits or other discretionary processes.

The deadline for compliance is December 31, 2025.

“If we don’t comply, there are ramifications,” Director of Finance Sue Pimental said at the June 5 Planning Board meeting.

Francis Farm Building Named for Local Family

By Joe Siegel

The Miller Building at Francis Farm will be renamed the TaylorMiller Building. The Rehoboth Board of Selectmen approved the name change at their June 17 meeting. A dedication ceremony will be held on a future date.

Cassie Taylor-Krasnianski shared the history of her family’s involvement with Francis Farm. Her father was George Taylor and her grandfather was Frank “Mike” Miller.

Francis Farm was known for years for its traditional New England clambakes. Francis Farm was owned by the Francis family from the 1800s through 1959. William C. Francis and his wife Mary ran the business from 1927 until 1959. In 1928, the couple constructed a pavilion which was able to accommodate 300 people. An addition built later on expanded the space to include as many as 600.

In 1959, William and Mary retired and the farm and business was sold to George E. Taylor, Jr. and Frank Miller. The clambakes were still held from May through mid-October.

“William and Mary’s wishes were that the clambakes remain the same,” Taylor-Krasnianski explained. “In 1959, the farm was bought by my Dad’s group. It was a seasonal business which ran from April through October.”

The Taylor family moved to the farm after William and Mary moved to their house on County Street. George Taylor served in the United States Navy and worked as a teacher at East Providence High School. He also served as the head of the Physical Education department.

Taylor-Krasnianski said her father had a “special passion” for the farm. “I think my Dad and my Mom would be thankful for the consideration of their name for the Taylor-Miller building because for 45 years, (Francis Farm) was in our family.”

The first clambake was actually held in 1890 for the Goff Gathering. The Goff family, headed by Captain Shubael Goff and Sally Briggs Goff, who were married in 1805, and their descendants started an annual family gathering in the late 1800’s that was held in various locations.

“It was a gathering place. It was a community center,” Selectmen Chairman Skip Vadnais noted. “(Francis Farm) is a Rehoboth institution and it will continue to be one.”

Dighton-Rehoboth Schools Plan for the Future

By Joe Siegel

The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District (DRRSD) has announced the launch of its DRiving Toward 2030 Strategic Planning Initiative.

The DRiving Toward 2030 Strategic Planning initiative proclaims the district’s new Mission Statement: The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District empowers staff to ignite curiosity and facilitate meaningful learning, preparing students to navigate future complexities while shaping their path to success in an ever-changing world.

“In its purest form, a regional school district’s mission is to rally towns around a central mission of education. Based on feedback that I received in my travels around the district and the towns in 2022, it was clear that the purpose of our regional school district was nowhere close to being fulfilled,” Superintendent Bill Runey said Wednesday. “For all intents and purposes, we were three entities: Dighton, Rehoboth, and our high school. This initiative aims to change that by empowering our educators to ignite the fires of learning in the minds of our students whose futures we are charged to shape.”

“Our success in the past has been built on community spirit and collaboration,” Runey continued. “The towns of Dighton and Rehoboth have a rich history of faithfully supporting the education of the next generation. The district plays a pivotal role in shaping the lives of its residents, especially the youth, by influencing their future prospects. Understanding the need for a strong educational base in the modern era, the district initiated the DRiving Toward 2030 Strategic Plan to continually empower our educators.”

“The School Committee is pleased and in support of Superintendent Runey and the DRiving Toward 2030 strategic planning initiative,” Chairperson Chris Andrade said. “The vision and execution of the plan will help the school district maintain and enhance existing programming and facilities in a financially responsible manner in support of our two towns and the students who attend DR.”

Dighton-Rehoboth Promotes School Choice

By Joe Siegel

The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District is actively promoting school choice. “We are putting on a full court press for school choice students,” Superintendent Bill Runey said at the June 11 school committee meeting. “You approved 25 slots at the high school. We have 18 slots available for next year and we want surrounding communities to know that Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School is a great destination for them.”

An advertisement was placed on the district’s website. Runey said there was already an influx of applications for school choice. The deadline for applications was June 21.

According to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE): “All school-age children who live in Massachusetts are entitled to attend a public school free of charge and all children between the ages of 6 and 16 must attend school. Most children attend school in their home district, the school district in which they live. In certain situations, families may choose to enroll children in public schools outside of their home district. These choices include the inter-district school choice program, charter schools, vocational technical schools, METCO, Commonwealth Virtual Schools, and the Massachusetts Academy of Math and Science at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI). Families may also choose to educate their children in non-public settings through private schools or home schooling. This advisory provides information and links to additional resources on these options.”

Dighton-Rehoboth Receives Skills Capital Grant

By Joe Siegel

The Dighton Rehoboth Regional School District has received a $316,000 Skills Capital Grant from the Healey-Driscoll administration for its Career and Technical Education programs (CTE) at the high school.

This grant will specifically be utilized to both bolster and create collaboration opportunities for DRRHS’ Advanced Manufacturing and Carpentry programs.

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

DRRHS has seven CTE programs to offer its students in Engineering, Automotive Technology, Early Childhood Education & Care, TV Media Studies, Marketing, Carpentry, and Advanced Manufacturing.

“We are excited about the opportunities this grant gives our current students while also signaling how attractive our high school is for the students in our district,” Principal Jacqueline Ash added.

D-R School Superintendent Gets High Marks

By Joe Siegel

Dighton-Rehoboth Regional Schools Superintendent Bill Runey scored high marks for his annual job performance evaluation. The results were shared by School Committee Chairman Chris Andrade at the June 25 meeting.

The categories included student learning, professional practice, and district improvement. Runey received an overall rating of proficient during the evaluation period. He was rated as proficient in instructional leadership and management and operations and was rated as exemplary in community and family engagement and professional culture.

“Proficient doesn’t mean average,” Andrade said. “It means (Runey) is meeting the goals and objectives of the committee. It means you’ve gone beyond those goals and objectives.”

Runey began working for the district in July 2022. He was principal at Attleboro High School for 10 years before coming to Dighton-Rehoboth. “I was absolutely humbled by the two proficients and the two exemplaries,” Runey told the committee.

Runey acknowledged he had made some mistakes in the past. “I could have handled the Southcoast Collaborative request better, so I learned from that.”

He pointed to the sudden resignation of Robert Baxter, the district business administrator, in 2023, and said that resulted in a sharper focus on the budget process.

“What I told my district leadership team is that we have so many great things going forward because of the fact that we have so many great people behind what we are doing. It’s a blessing for me to serve these two towns,” Runey added.

“We are DR!”

-Superintendent

Bill Runey

The Seekonk Scene

From the Seekonk Town Clerk’s Office

Summer officially arrived on June 20th. We would like to wish all students a fun-filled and safe summer vacation. We can’t believe we are already celebrating the 4th of July. Happy Independence Day to all of you!

On Saturday, June 22, 2024, the Town held the installation of Fire Chief Shaun Whalen. It was a very nice ceremony wherein he received two citations; 1) District Director Louis Loura, from Marc Pacheco’s Office presented a Senate Citation; and 2) Representative Steven Howitt, from the 4th Bristol District, also presented a citation. Thank you to all those who attended in support of Fire Chief Whalen.

Dispatch Emergency Specialist, Nicholas Rondeau, was presented with the Massachusetts Telecommunicator Awards for being a part the 2023 Team of the Year for their professionalism and dedication during a critical time of need on December 15, 2023. The team demonstrated extraordinary solidarity and support for their fellow dispatchers.

AOL ENTERPRISES

We would also like to offer our Congratulations the Seekonk High School Baseball team, Coach DeMelo, and his coaching staff for their second MIAA Division 4 State Championship.

Reminders from the Tax Collector’s Office:

Fiscal Year 2024 disposal bills were due October 19, 2023. If you have not paid the disposal fee, please contact the Collector’s Office at (508) 336-2930 for the up-to-date balance.

Fiscal Year 2025 Preliminary Bills will be mailed the first week of July, the first quarter will be due August 1, 2024 and the second on November 1, 2024.

Reminders from the Town Clerk’s Office:

All dog licenses were due on April 1st and the 60-day grace period has ended. A late fee of $20 will be added to the license fees as follows: $10.00 for spayed/neutered dogs and $20.00 for unspayed/un-neutered dogs. As a reminder, license fees are waived for residents 70 years of age or older. However, you still need to apply for the license and show the dog is current on their rabies vaccine.

If you have not returned your census, please return it to the Town Clerk’s Office as soon as possible. As per MGL Ch. 51, Section 4(c), failure to respond to census mailings for two consecutive years will result in the removal from the active voting list. In June, we mailed 3,282 voter confirmation cards to reinstate those voters who did not return their 2024 Census. If you have received one of these cards, please complete, sign, and return it to our office so we can reactive your voting status. If you are unsure of your voter status, please do not hesitate to call our office at 508-336-2920 or email us at townclerk@seekonk-ma.gov. You can also visit the Secretary of State’s website to update your registration status, address, party information, name, and/or register to vote at https:// www.sec.state.ma.us/OVR/.

If you would like to find out more information about the September 3rd State Primary or the November 5th State Elections, please visit https://www.sec.state.ma.us/divisions/elections/electionsand-voting.htm.

If you would like to receive a Vote by Mail application, please complete the form online under the Town Clerk’s webpage or visit us at the Town Clerk’s Office. Please note if you are listed as UNENROLLED or NO PARTY for the State Primary, you must check the box for the party ballot you want mailed to you. If you are unenrolled and don’t check a party box you will not be sent a ballot.

If you already received a “I Want to Vote” postcard from the State in January 2024, please do not fill out another Vote by Mail application. You will receive your ballots in the mail for the September 3rd and November 5th elections.

Other Town News

Lorraine and I were fortunate to attend the Massachusetts Town Clerk’s Association (MTCA) Summer Conference for a three-day workshop. where we were able to meet many other Town Clerk’s, Assistant Town Clerks, and State Officials. The classes will help us better prepare us for the upcoming elections, public records requests, and how to prepare for a recount/audit.

Please check back with us in the Reporter’s August edition with more upcoming election information which will include early voting dates and times. In the meantime, we hope you have a wonderful July.

~Kristen and Lorraine

*Sustainable Seekonk*

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

Seekonk DPW (871 Taunton Ave) has textile collection bins and a Terracycle collection shed in the parking lot, and rechargeable batteries collection bin and eye glasses collection inside the lobby. They also accept fluorescent light bulbs-including CFL bulbs and tubes under 4ft. These should never go in your curbside bins! Stores like Lowes, Home Depot, Best Buy and Staples also accept most of these items as well. Single use-alkaline batteries, incandescent bulbs and LED bulbs can go in the trash.

Terracycle Recycling Collections The Recycling Committee is partnering with Terracycle to save hundreds of everyday items from the trash, and send them in to be recycled into new products. The shed at DPW has bins to deposit items like toothbrushes, toothpaste tubes, deodorant, baby food pouches, air fresheners and much more. See the full list in the DPW lobby, or at Facebook. com/SustainableSeekonk (you do NOT need to have a Facebook account to see the posts on this page!)

Seekonk Transfer Station/TARF (351 Fall River Ave) is open year-round Mon-Fri 8am-3pm for drop off of yard waste (leaves, grass, twigs).

Food Waste Compost Collection at TARF: The Recycling Committee is sponsoring a collection bin at TARF from Black Earth Compost, residents can bring their household food waste and deposit in the bins. Accepted items include: fruits & vegetables, egg shells, bread, cereal, meat & bones, wooden chopsticks & toothpicks, coffee grinds & filters and more. See BlackEarthCompost.com for a full list and tips on collection and transport. You can dump food waste directly into the bins from your home container or use certified compostable bags-no plastic bags please! Please reach out to the Recycling Coordinator at DPW for more information about this program.

Interested in a Recycling Audit? The Recycling Committee is offering appointments for committee members to stop by your home and go over items in your bin to ensure the correct items are going where they should go. We know it’s hard to keep track of what items are recyclable or not-so we’d like to help in real time with real items that you use everyday. No shame-just learning! Reach out to the Recycling Coordinator at DPW or the Recycling Committee on Facebook to book your appointment.

Don’t Trash It! Consider donating items that are still usableSavers in North Attleboro has easy drive up drop off service, Angel’s Care Closet takes a wide variety of items or you can visit DONATIONTOWN.ORG for a list of local services that will pickup items from your home. If items are broken or no longer usable, stores like Staples, Lowes, Home Depot and Best Buy take back all kinds of electronics, bulbs, ink/toner, batteries, cell phone cases, pens and markers and more. Use the Recycle Locator at CTA.tech website to find all your nearby options for electronics.

The Library of Things- did you know the Seekonk Library has way more than books? With things like karaoke machines, metal detectors, stud finders, instruments, cameras, computers & more, it›s an amazing way to borrow what you need & save money! What items would you like to see added? Reach out to the Recycling Coordinator at DPW, or the library with ideas.

continued on next page...

EAST COAST PLASTERING CO.

Trash or Recycling Questions? We’re partnering with the Seekonk Public Library to host the program ‘Waste Not, Want Not: Seekonk Recycling Updates’ on Thu July 25th at 6:30pm. The new contract begins July 1. Stop by to get an update on what’s accepted, managing your collection bins and any other recycling questions. You’ll also find out about recycling options in our community beyond the curbside bins. For those who may be new to the PAYT (Pay As You Throw) model- the annual bill you pay is for the collection of your trash each week, and the Blue Bags are how you pay for the actual trash.

Annual Hazardous Waste Collection Day Hosted by the Seekonk Board of Health, this collection event has been scheduled for Saturday July 27th from 9-11 AM-keep an eye on the town website for registration and more information about items accepted.

Recycling Tip of The Month: Iced coffee cups are recyclablebut the STRAWS are not! Please remove the straw before placing the empty cup in your recycling bin-or better yet choose to reuse-a stainless steel straw is easy to clean and use over and over, or bring your own reusable cup to fill up and skip all the single use plastic all together! Please remember to recycle right, and…. Reduce-ReuseRecycle (in THAT order!)

19 Local Firefighters Graduate from Firefighting Academy

Graduates of Class #BW30 Represent Nine Massachusetts Fire Departments

Bridgewater—State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine and Massachusetts Firefighting Academy leadership today announced the graduation of 19 firefighters from the 50-day Career Recruit Firefighting Training Program.

“Massachusetts firefighters are on the frontlines protecting their communities every day, and today’s graduates are needed now more than ever,” said State Fire Marshal Davine. “The hundreds of hours of foundational training they’ve received will provide them with the physical, mental, and technical skills to perform their jobs effectively and safely.”

“Massachusetts Firefighting Academy instructors draw on decades of experience in the fire service to train new recruits,” said Massachusetts Firefighting Academy Director Eric Littmann. “Through consistent classroom instruction and practical exercises, today’s graduates have developed the tools they’ll need to work seamlessly with veteran firefighters in their home departments and in neighboring communities as mutual aid.”

The graduating firefighters of Class #BW30 represent the fire departments of Avon, Brewster, Bridgewater, Canton, Eastham, Hanson, Hull, Hyannis, Plymouth, Provincetown, Randolph, Scituate, Seekonk, Walpole, Whitman, and Yarmouth.

Basic Firefighter Skills

Students receive classroom training in all basic firefighter skills. They practice first under non-fire conditions and then during controlled fire conditions. To graduate, students must demonstrate proficiency in life safety, search and rescue, ladder operations, water supply, pump operation, and fire Administrative Services • Division of Fire Safety Hazardous Materials Response •Massachusetts Firefighting Academyattack. Fire attack operations range from mailbox fires to multiple-floor or multiple-room structural fires. Upon successful completion of the Career Recruit Program, all students have met the national standards of NFPA 1001, Standard for Fire Fighter Professional Qualifications, and are certified to the levels of Firefighter I/II and Hazardous Materials First Responder Operations by the Massachusetts Fire Training Council, which is accredited by the National Board on Fire Service Professional Qualifications.

Today’s Firefighters Do Much More than Fight Fires

Modern firefighters train for and respond to all types of hazards and emergencies. They are the first ones called to respond to chemical and environmental emergencies, ranging from the suspected presence of carbon monoxide to gas leaks to industrial chemical spills. They may be called to rescue a child who has fallen through the ice, an office worker stuck in an elevator, or a motorist trapped in a crashed vehicle.

They test and maintain their equipment, including self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), hydrants, hoses, power tools, and apparatus.

At the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy, recruits learn all these skills and more, including the latest science of fire behavior and suppression tactics, from certified fire instructors. They also receive training in public fire education, hazardous material incident mitigation, flammable liquids, stress management, and self-rescue techniques.

The intensive, 10-week program involves classroom instruction, physical fitness training, firefighter skills training, and live firefighting practice. The MFA provides recruit and in-service training for career, call, and volunteer firefighters at every level of experience, from recruit to chief officer, at campuses in Stow, Springfield, and Bridgewater.

Seekonk Firefighter Joshua King who graduated from the Massachusetts Fire Academy in Bridgewater, MA June 28, 2024.

The URI Master Gardeners and other volunteers passed out over 1000 plants along the parade route. They had an awesome float and had a great time!

The Baldassi family staged the 4th Annual “Hannah’s 5K Run for Charity”, an event that started during Covid to collect food for the Doorways food pantry. Hannah Baldassi set a new record time in this year’s event. Pictured, L to R: Heather, Grace, Hannah, Jackson and Dan Baldassi.

Seekonk Lions Support Doorways Food Pantry

Former Seekonk Lions President Lenny Silva presents a $5,000.00 check to Gerry McCabe of Doorways Food Pantry to help provide food for our neighbors in need.

To: Seekonk Lions Club Board of Directors and our Membership.

I am stepping down as the President of the Seekonk Lions Club year end June 30, 2024. I agreed to be the President as a transitional year until we found someone who has the time to lead our group long term. I am pleased to announce that a newly elected President Paul Buckley has been sworn in to lead the Seekonk lions Club effective on July 1, 2024.

We are pleased to present a check of $5,000 to Doorways of Seekonk a local organization that we have supported in the past and will continue to support in the future. Gerry McCabe and his team do an outstanding job supporting many families in need of food. We ask that you help support them as well with either food donations or money if you are able to do so.

We have also donated $15,000 to Massachusetts Lions Eye Research Fund which directly aligns with Lions Club International mission statement.

I will continue to try and help out the club as much as possible. I wish The Club much continued success. I greatly appreciate those board members who helped me out while President: Gary Sagar, Scott Graham, John Whitelaw, Paul Buckley, Dana Heberlein, Keith Roundeau, Guy Larrimer, Roger Tetreault, Bob Drohan, George Poli, Neil Abelson and Ted Gamboa.

Lenny Silva

Seekonk Senior Center Expansion Revealed

By Joe Siegel

The expansion of the Senior Center at 540 Arcade Avenue is now complete, according to Select Board Chair Michelle Hines. Hines, also a member of the Senior Center Building Committee, revealed the improvements at the June 5 meeting. The total building size is 6000 square feet.

The newly renovated second level includes a game room, conference room, a lunch room for the Council on Aging staff. One the ground level is an office for clinical services. In the basement is a large activity room. The entire section of the building is ADA compliant, Hines noted.

On November 18, 2019, the Town voted to appropriate $1,477,938 to pay the costs of designing, planning, constructing, and furnishing Phase II of the renovation. The building is owned by the Town. The Town further authorized the Moderator to appoint a committee of 7 to 9 members to oversee the project, under the direction of the Board of Selectmen.

The game room

The activity room Office

Seekonk Ranks 189 on Safe Places List

By Joe Siegel

Seekonk ranks 189 on Niche.com’s listing of the 235 Safe Places to Live in Massachusetts. The overall nice grade is B+ and is based on a number of categories.

The town earns a grade of A- for its Public Schools. For Crime and Safety, the grade is B-. Housing is also B-. Nightlife is B+. Diversity is B-. Good for Families – A-.

Niche noted: Seekonk is a suburb of Providence with a population of 15,475. Seekonk is in Bristol County. Living in Seekonk offers residents a rural feel and most residents own their homes. In Seekonk there are a lot of restaurants, coffee shops, and parks. Residents of Seekonk tend to lean liberal. The public schools in Seekonk are highly rated.

The median home value is $433,500, well above the national average of $281,900. 83 percent of residents own their homes, while 17 percent of residents rent.

The median household income is $108,479. In other rankings, Seekonk placed 83rd out of 197 in the category Best Suburbs for Young Professionals in Massachusetts and number 83 out of 195 for Suburbs with the Best Public Schools in Massachusetts.

“The school community is relatively friendly and it’s a very homely town,” said one resident. “Seekonk is a small and close-knit community, but I have mostly experienced the town through the school system, where it’s obvious that everybody knows everybody, yet that also means there’s a lot of personal tension amongst its members.”

The Boston suburb of Brookline was ranked the safest in the state, with Cambridge at number three. Rehoboth ranked 232 on the list. The Public Schools earned a B-. Housing was a C+. Crime and Safety was a B. Nightlife was a C+ and Diversity was a C+. Good for Families – A-.

Niche noted: Rehoboth is a suburb of Providence with a population of 12,614. Rehoboth is in Bristol County. Living in Rehoboth offers residents a rural feel and most residents own their homes. In Rehoboth there are a lot of parks. Many young professionals live in Rehoboth and residents tend to lean conservative. The public schools in Rehoboth are above average.

The median home value was $461,900. 91 percent of residents own their homes. The median household income is $124, 306. The national average is $75, 149.

One resident stated: “Rehoboth is a small farming community not many people know about and often drive through, but it’s a great town to live in for a nice quiet life! Lots of woods scattered throughout the town, and various woodland creatures often roam the town. The people are very friendly and are always eager to lend a helping hand for those in need, especially during power outages. The farming community is strong within the town, as the town is a right to farm community, and protects any and all farmers who decide to start agriculture within the town. The nights in the town are silent, as very little travel through during the late hours, and you can sleep soundly with no commotion going on outside.”

For a complete list, visit https:// www.niche.com/places-to-live/search/ safest-places/s/massachusetts.

From the State houSe

Legislature Approves August 10-11 Sales Tax Holiday Weekend

Boston — Dean of the Massachusetts Senate Marc R. Pacheco (D-Taunton) announces that the Massachusetts Legislature approved August 10 and August 11 as a sales tax holiday weekend for Massachusetts. On those days, the Massachusetts sales tax of 6.25% will be suspended for most items that retail for less than $2,500.

“The annual sales tax holiday not only presents savings for consumers, but also spurs economic activity for the Commonwealth’s small businesses,” said Senator Pacheco.

The holiday will not apply to the purchase of items like motorized vehicles and boats, along with products that don’t normally fall under Massachusetts sales tax, such as meals, alcoholic beverages, and marijuana products.

The holiday welcomes Massachusetts residents to visit retailers and small businesses around the state. A spike in consumer activity routinely boosts indirect tax revenues. According to the Department of Revenue, during the 2023 sales tax holiday, indirect tax revenues due to increased economic activity were approximately $3.54 million.

Having previously passed the House, the bill will now go to Governor Maura Healey’s desk for her signature.

Amendment sponsored by Senator Marc Pacheco for the Rehoboth Housing Authority

Senior Housing Initiative adopted in the Senate Housing Bond Bill

Rehoboth – Late Thursday evening the Massachusetts Senate voted unanimously to pass the bipartisan “Affordable Homes Act,” which authorizes $5.4 billion in borrowing and makes crucial policy changes with the goal of building new housing, accelerating the rehabilitation of existing housing, reducing barriers to development, and promoting affordable housing.

The Rehoboth Housing Authority (RHA) is pleased to announce that because of Senator Marc Pacheco’s efforts, an amendment was adopted providing $500,000 to the Rehoboth Housing Authority towards the design and construction of new Senior Housing Units.

“I am pleased to see this funding authorization made available for the Rehoboth Housing Authority to continue its efforts to provide our Seniors with safe and affordable housing options,” said Senator Pacheco.

“We are extremely thankful to Senator Pacheco for his continued advocacy on behalf of our seniors and our proposed Senior Housing initiative. These funds will go a long way in helping with pre-development and design services,” said Paul Jacques, Chair of the Rehoboth Housing Authority. “We look forward to working together with the Senator and the Legislature to access these muchneeded monies once available.”

The bond bill will now move to the Conference Committee to work out the differences between the House and Senate versions of the bill. While the Senate’s adopted amendment authorizes the $500,000 to be expended for the Senior Housing project, the Conference Committee must agree to the Senate’s language. Once the Conference Committee has released their report, and the authorization remains intact, it will be up to Governor Healey’s Administration to release the funds.

During a previous Rehoboth Town Meeting voters approved a land swap between the Town and the Housing Authority giving the RHA control over 5.41 acres of land on Bay State Road which contains the Anawan School and the adjacent site where the former Council on Aging was located. The RHA has proposed constructing approximately 35 units of Senior Housing on this property in the years to come.

For more information regarding the Rehoboth Housing Authority please email RehobothHA@gmail.com.

Senate Acts to Boost Benefits, Modernize Services, and Promote Inclusivity for Veterans

Upper chamber builds on and approves historic commitment to people who have served

Boston — Dean of the Massachusetts Senate Marc R. Pacheco (D-Taunton) announces that the Senate unanimously passed legislation to boost support for hundreds of thousands of individuals across the state who have served in the military, including efforts to support women veterans.

The comprehensive legislative package, H.4671, An Act Honoring, Empowering and Recognizing Our Servicemembers and Veterans (HERO Act), would increase benefits for disabled veterans, bolster support for businesses that hire veterans, update the definition of a veteran, expand the scope of the Veterans Equality Review Board, and codify medical and dental benefits.

“The Commonwealth has long been a leader in supporting those who serve and have served,” said Senator Pacheco. “This legislation bolsters those supports by including protections and benefits for both active-duty servicemembers and veterans, along with their families.”

After separate versions of the bill having been passed by the Senate and the House of Representatives, the chambers will now move to reconcile the differences before sending the bill to the governor’s desk.

Senate passes bond bill providing for future IT needs of Massachusetts

Senate also approves professional regulation and licensure for

interior designers

Boston — Dean of the Massachusetts Senate Marc R. Pacheco (D-Taunton) announces that the Senate has passed a bond bill aimed at providing funding for improving information technology, cybersecurity, and online resources across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

The bond bill, S.2806, An Act to provide for the future information technology needs of Massachusetts, which is also known as the FutureTech Act, will provide more than $1.24 billion in bond authorization to modernize the Commonwealth’s digital infrastructure and create safer and more accessible experiences for residents and employees alike.

“Technology is changing faster than ever before, which often brings beneficial innovations the Commonwealth of Massachusetts can take advantage of to better serve those who live and work here,” said Senator Pacheco. “However, that acceleration also comes with new threats that can be harmful to everything from the Commonwealth’s government functions to emergency services.”

Funding would allow state agencies to deliver services more efficiently to residents, enhance cybersecurity on statewide platforms, and broaden access to services used by hundreds of thousands of residents statewide. The bill would also invest in emerging technologies and artificial intelligence, along with directing $400 million in anticipated federal funding to bolster health and human services-related projects.

Having been passed by the Senate, the legislation now heads to the Massachusetts House of Representatives for consideration.

Legislature passes bill to prevent abuse and exploitation, enhance protections for survivors

Legislation addresses image-based sexual harassment, coercive control, and extends the statute of limitations for certain domestic violence offenses

Boston — Dean of the Massachusetts Senate Marc R. Pacheco (D-Taunton) announces that the Massachusetts Legislature enacted comprehensive legislation that criminalizes the non-consensual sharing of explicit images known as “revenge porn,” creates a diversion program for teens who share explicit images, statutorily defines coercive control as an element of domestic abuse, and extends the statute of limitations to pursue criminal charges for certain domestic violence offenses from six years to 15 years.

To address the nonconsensual distribution of explicit images by adults, the bill establishes a penalty in the existing criminal harassment statute which includes up to two and a half years of prison time and/or a monetary fine of up to $10,000. The bill increases the upper limit of the fine for criminal harassment from $1,000 to $5,000. The bill will also empower victims to petition the court for a harassment prevention order against a person who has violated the new statute.

The legislation also responds to the growing trend of individuals utilizing artificial intelligence and other digital imaging software to produce “deep fakes” of unsuspecting victims, a practice currently not prohibited under state law. These images, which are equally traumatizing to victims, often realistically depict a person’s face edited on to an unclothed body, making it challenging or impossible for viewers to determine what is reality.

“It is imperative that our young people understand the consequences of their actions online, especially in regard to the unlawful distribution of explicit images,” said Senator Pacheco. “In an everchanging online environment, we must make sure we are educating our young people to be responsible in how they interact online.”

The bill adds coercive control to the definition of abuse. Coercive control is a nonphysical form of abuse that includes a pattern of behavior intended to threaten, intimidate, harass, isolate, control, coerce or compel the compliance of a family or household member in a manner that causes the targeted individual to fear physical harm or to have a reduced sense of physical safety or autonomy. Examples of coercive control include threatening to share explicit images, regulating or monitoring a family or household member’s communications and access to services, and isolating a family or household member from friends or relatives.

The legislation also extends the statute of limitations for assault and battery on a family or household member, or against someone with an active protective order, from six years to 15 years. This

change brings the statute of limitations for these domestic violence offenses in line with the statute of limitations for the crimes of rape, assault with intent to commit rape and sex trafficking.

“Victims of domestic violence have too often been silenced and have been unable to take action against those who harmed them,” said Senator Pacheco. “This change gives them an enhanced opportunity to seek justice.”

The same version of the bill having been passed by both chambers, the legislation now goes to the governor’s desk for her signature.

Senate Acts to Ban Plastic Bags, Reduce Straw and Plasticware Usage, Boost Recycling and Composting

Measures would reduce plastic waste, a major threat to the environment, climate goals, and public health

Boston — Dean of the Massachusetts Senate Marc R. Pacheco (D-Taunton) announces that the Massachusetts Senate passed legislation that builds on the state’s climate and environmental leadership by banning single-use plastic bags, making straws and plasticware available by request only, and making it easier to recycle.

“We have increasingly seen the dangers that plastic waste has had on everything, from the water we drink to the food we eat to the air we breathe,” said Senator Pacheco. “This bill includes crucial measures that will protect the Commonwealth’s environment and public health now and in the future.”

S.2830, An Act to Reduce Plastic, aims to drastically reduce plastic waste that is too often found in streets and waterways—and too often fills landfills and disposal sites—ultimately harming the environment in Massachusetts communities and contributing to global climate change.

The legislation will prohibit carry-out plastic bags at retail stores statewide and require stores to charge 10 cents for recycled paper bags, five cents of which will be allocated to environmental protection measures. The bill provides a limited exemption from the requirement to collect 10 cents for small local retailers. As of May 2023, 162 Massachusetts cities and towns, making up nearly 70% of the state’s population, already regulated single-use plastic bags.

The bill will also prevent plastic utensils and straws from automatically being given to consumers, prohibit single-use plastic bottle purchases by state agencies, and increase statewide bulk plastic recycling by creating a statewide program for the recycling of large plastic objects, such as car seats.

The legislation passed by a vote of 38-2 and now goes to the House of Representatives for consideration.

Senate votes to inject $5.4 billion into housing in an effort to put homeownership and affordable units within reach Senator Pacheco advocates for further protections for manufactured housing communities

Boston — Dean of the Massachusetts Senate Marc R. Pacheco (D-Taunton) announces that the Senate has passed the Affordable Homes Act, which authorizes $5.4 billion in borrowing and makes crucial policy changes with the goal of building new housing, accelerating the rehabilitation of existing housing, reducing barriers to development, and promoting affordable housing.

“This bill makes significant strides toward solving our housing crisis here in the Commonwealth,” said Senator Pacheco. “This comprehensive bill accounts for a wide variety of policies meant to make housing more affordable, equitable, and available.”

The legislation, S.2834, An Act relative to affordable homes, makes important investments in public housing, housing affordability, sustainable building initiatives, initiatives for first-time homebuyers, essential infrastructure, geographic equity, and incentivizing

local best practices. Additionally, the bill includes policy proposals to further housing equity for both homeowners and renters.

The amount local housing authorities received in the amendment was:

• $500,000 to the Dighton Housing Authority for improvements

• $500,000 to the Rehoboth Housing Authority for the design and construction of new senior housing units

Addressing regional equity

The legislation includes $150 million in dedicated funds to address the unique housing needs of rural towns, seasonal communities, and mid-sized communities. This ensures that all areas of the state, regardless of size or location, have the resources to meet their specific housing challenges.

While the Affordable Homes Act is an impactful piece of legislation aimed at solving the state’s housing crisis, Senator Pacheco will continue to advocate for the bill to be passed by the end of the legislative session.

Senator Pacheco co-sponsors Senate bill to advance clean energy adoption statewide

Legislation targets the climate crisis with streamlined siting, expanded EV infrastructure, and ratepayer protections

Boston — Dean of the Massachusetts Senate Marc R. Pacheco (D-Taunton) announces that the Massachusetts Senate passed comprehensive climate legislation co-sponsored by Senator Pacheco to make systemic changes to the state’s clean energy infrastructure that will help the state achieve its net zero emissions by 2050 goals, expand electric vehicle (EV) use and infrastructure, and protect residents and ratepayers. The bill passed the upper chamber by a vote of 38-2.

“I am happy that the Senate took up this bill, which includes vital steps to prepare the Commonwealth for our transition to clean energy,” said Senator Pacheco. “The urgency of climate action is quite significant, and this climate legislation is long overdue.”

The bill will allow Massachusetts to develop infrastructure essential for the state’s preparations for the impacts of climate change, including new solar, wind, and storage facilities. It will also enhance the electric grid to support getting clean energy to residents efficiently and in the needed capacities to power homes, businesses, and vehicles.

The bill also strengthens the Commonwealth’s support for transitions to electric vehicles.

The MOR-EV program, which gives residents $3,500–$6,000 for the purchase of new or used electric vehicles, will be expanded through 2027.

Residents who own parcels within condominiums, homeowner associations, and historic districts will also be able to install EV chargers, along with condo boards installing EV chargers on community parcels.

The Senate also voted to adopt an amendment modernizing the ‘bottle bill’, adding noncarbonated beverages, wine, and spirits to the list of containers eligible for a bottle deposit, and increasing the deposit amount from 5 cents to 10 cents.

Senator Pacheco spoke out against the amendment to change the Commonwealth’s bottle deposit system, citing the results of a 2014 ballot question on the issue, which resulted in 71% of Massachusetts voters rejecting changes to the system.

“10 years ago, the voters of the state emphatically rejected changes to the Massachusetts bottle deposit system. Voters in my district made an even stronger objection to the bill, with 80% voting no to the changes,” said Senator Pacheco. “While I support the overall goals of this measure, I hope that as this amendment goes to conference committee, the will of the voters is taken into consideration.”

Having passed the Senate, the legislation now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.

Representative Steven S. Howitt supports bill to punish the unauthorized distribution of sexually explicit images and videos Legislation also expands abuse definition to include coercive control

Boston – State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R-Seekonk) recently supported legislation to close a loophole in Massachusetts law and address the unauthorized distribution of sexually explicit images or videos via text messaging and online postings.

House Bill 4744, An Act to prevent

abuse and exploitation, criminalizes so-called “revenge porn” by establishing penalties for disseminating explicit visual material of another person without their consent. The bill also expands the definition of abuse to include coercive control and assists survivors by extending the statute of limitations for certain domestic violence offenses, including assault and battery on a family or household member or for individuals with an active restraining order, from six years to 15 years.

House Bill 4744 was enacted by the House on a vote of 151-0 on June 13 and by the Senate the same day on a voice vote. It is now before Governor Maura Healey for her review and signature.

Massachusetts is currently one of only two states that do not have specific laws against revenge porn, the other being South Carolina. Representative Howitt noted that former Governor Charlie Baker filed legislation to close this loophole and protect victims in 2017, 2019 and again in 2021, but none of those bills reached his desk, despite the House approving a bill in 2022 that died in the Senate.

Governor Healey has until June 23 to sign the bill into law.

Representative Steven S. Howitt supports maternal health care bill to expand access to non-hospital childbirth options

Boston – State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R-Seekonk) recently supported legislation to expand access to non-hospital childbirth options for expectant parents in Massachusetts and establish a formal licensing process for certified professional midwives and lactation consultants.

House Bill 4773, An Act promoting access to midwifery care and out-of-hospital birth options, also provides for postpartum depression screenings and requires the Department of Public Health (DPH) to establish a program to conduct fetal and infant mortality reviews. The bill was engrossed by the House of Representatives on a vote of 153-0 on June 20.

Representative Howitt noted that House Bill 4773 incorporates recommendations made by the Special Commission on Racial Inequities in Maternal Health, which was created in 2021 to investigate and study ways to reduce or eliminate racial inequities in maternal mortality and severe maternal morbidity in the Commonwealth. According to the State House News Service, from 2011 to 2020 the severe maternal morbidity rate in Massachusetts nearly doubled, with the highest rate of complications experienced by Black women.

House Bill 4773, as amended, now moves to the Senate for its consideration.

Representative Steven S. Howitt supports bill to prevent home equity theft and protect homeowners facing foreclosure

Boston – State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R-Seekonk) recently supported legislation to protect Massachusetts homeowners facing foreclosure due to a municipal tax lien on their property from becoming victims of home equity theft.

House Bill 4791, An Act relative to municipal tax lien procedures and protections for property owners in the Commonwealth, was engrossed by the House of Representatives on a vote of 154-0 on June 26. The bill now heads to the Senate, which previously adopted home equity theft language in its version of the Fiscal Year 2025 budget but has yet to take up the issue as a stand-alone bill.

Representative Howitt noted that under current Massachusetts law, cities and towns can foreclose on a property to settle an unpaid tax debt and retain the full value of the property once it is sold, not just the amount of the original debt. The law also allows municipalities to sell tax liens on delinquent properties to private investors, who can file for foreclosure with the Land Court once the debt is six months old and then keep any profits from the sale of the property.

Although versions of this legislation have been filed since at least 2018, Representative Howitt said the bill has been gaining momentum since a pair of court rulings – one federal and one in Massachusetts – declared the current law unconstitutional.

In 2023, the US Supreme Court ruled in the case of Tyler v. Hennepin County that a Minnesota statute similar to Massachusetts’ was unconstitutional because it denied reasonable compensation to a homeowner for the taking of their property. More recently, a judge in Hampden County ruled that current practices violate Article 10 of the Massachusetts Constitution’s Declaration of Rights and the takings clause of the Fifth Amendment to the US Constitution. The case involved a Springfield homeowner with an unpaid property tax bill of $1,637 who entered into a payment agreement with the city at a 16% interest rate but was unable to keep up with the payments and eventually owed about $17,500 with interest, placing them at risk of losing their home, which was valued at approximately $230,000 and had over $200,000 in equity.

Representative Howitt said a 2022 study conducted by the Pacific Legal Foundation found that over a seven-year period, the city of Springfield moved to collect nearly $3.5 million in unpaid taxes by foreclosing on 129 properties, resulting in about $15 million in lost equity for homeowners. The study found that “Massachusetts homeowners subjected to tax foreclosure lose 82% of their home equity on average—$172,000 per home.”

Representative Steven S. Howitt

BI-STATE PEST CONTROL

Representative Steven S. Howitt supports passage of comprehensive $4B economic development bond bill

Will fund life sciences, climate technology, AI grants, and public infrastructure

Boston – State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R-Seekonk) recently supported a comprehensive economic development bond bill that calls for just over $4 billion in investments to promote business and job growth across a wide range of industries in Massachusetts.

House Bill 4789, An Act relative to strengthening Massachusetts’ economic leadership, provides for a multi-year commitment to the life sciences, climate technology, manufacturing, workforce development, public infrastructure improvements, and other critical areas, including funding to support the adoption and application of artificial intelligence capabilities to public policy problems. Also known as the Mass Leads Act, House Bill 4789 was engrossed by the House of Representatives on a vote of 155-2 on June 27.

The House bill also addresses the issue of event ticketing by requiring ticket sellers to provide customers with the option of buying a physical ticket, and limiting the ability to sell tickets on the secondary market to only those entities that have been approved by the commissioner of occupational licensure. The bill also prohibits consumers from using “ticket purchasing software,” which is defined as any device, machine, or computer software designed to bypass or subvert an online ticket seller’s security apparatus or identification authentication process.

Representative Howitt said House Bill 4789 also includes:

• $150 million in grants for approved public library projects;

• $8 million for a grant program for the preservation of historic properties, landscapes and sites;

• $50 million for the Massachusetts Cultural Facilities Fund for constructing, repairing, renovating, or addressing deferred maintenance needs at a cultural facility.

House Bill 4789, as amended, now moves to the Senate for its consideration.

Representative Steven S. Howitt supports creation of licensure process for recovery coaches, drug and alcohol counselors

Bill also requires

insurance coverage for opioid antagonists

Boston – The Department of Public Health (DPH) would license alcohol and drug counselors and recovery coaches, while health insurers would be required to offer policies covering prescribed opioid antagonists, under proposed legislation that recently passed the House of Representatives with the support of State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R-Seekonk).

House Bill 4743, An Act relative to treatments and coverage for substance use disorder and recovery coach licensure, was engrossed by the House on a vote of 153-0 on June 13. The bill now moves to the Senate for its consideration.

Representative Howitt noted that the House bill establishes a process for DPH to confer the title of a “licensed recovery coach” to individuals who have lived experience dealing personally with addiction and recovery from substance use disorder. DPH licensure would allow these individuals to practice recovery coaching to help others become and stay engaged in the process of recovery from a substance use disorder.

To obtain a license, a recovery coach must demonstrate at least two years of sustained recovery. Individuals who practice as a recovery coach or a drug and alcohol counselor without a license would be subject to a $500 penalty. However, the bill exempts certain individuals from the licensing requirement such as educational psychologists, therapists, physicians, and employees of a treatment program.

People In The News

Maryada Family Foundation Awards Local High School Graduate of 2024

The Maryada Foundation has been recognizing local students since 2016 who show the most improvement during their high school years. This year a Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School student was recognized based on nominations from her teachers and school counselors.

At Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School, this year’s recipient is Miss Neely Deschenes. Despite having dyslexia, she has worked hard and shown significant improvement throughout high school, ranking in the top 20% of her class. Described by her teachers as conscientious, well-rounded, resilient, and determined, Neely has been recognized for her dedication and achievements. She works at Hannaford’s, volunteers at the local library, leads a teen advisory board, volunteers with the Animal Welfare Organization and Pet Partners, captains the DR Tennis Varsity team, and participates in the SomersetSwansea Tennis League. She is a member of the National Honor Society, serves as a peer leader mentor, and is actively involved in the Ski Club, Art Club, Environmental Club, Portuguese Club, and French Club. Foundation board member, Dr. Shuowei Cai, presented the award to Neely on May 29th at the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School Awards Night.

Recipients of the 2024 Maryada Award receive a $500 check, a congratulatory letter from the Foundation president, and a trophy to honor their accomplishments. Dr. Bal Ram Singh, the President of the Maryada Family Foundation, stated, “We believe that putting forth one’s best efforts is key to success. It instills the fundamental principles for leading a successful life.” We wish recipients the best in their future endeavors.

The Maryada Foundation is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established in March 2014 by the Singh family, residents of Dartmouth since 1990. The main objective of the Foundation is to promote and advance science and education.

Neely Deschenes

Emily Fasteson Named Valedictorian for the Class of 2024

Assumption University has announced that Emily Fasteson, a Theology and Mathematics double major, has been named Valedictorian, an for the Class of 2024. At the Commencement ceremony on May 12, Fasteson delivered the Valedictory Address.

Fasteson is from Seekonk, Massachusetts, and is a member of multiple on-campus organizations. She is a head tutor in the Academic Support Center, a student leader in Campus Ministry, and a member of the Theology Club. At this year’s Honors Convocation, Fasteson received Departmental Major Awards in Mathematics and Theology, the Ray Marion Award in recognition of outstanding academic performance, and the Donec Formetur Christus Presidential Award.

Following her graduation from Assumption, Fasteson will attend the University of Notre Dame, where she will pursue her Master’s degree in systematic theology. This program is fully funded, with a stipend, and only accepts 20 students per year, with a 10-15% acceptance rate, according to Assumption Theology Professor Rachel Coleman.

“This honor speaks to the transformative power of a Catholic liberal education. I have been shaped both personally and intellectually by my Assumption education,” Fasteson said. “When I first came to Assumption, I had a clear plan for my life. However, in taking seriously the questions my professors asked me to grapple with in my courses, I developed a wider and richer understanding of reality, causing me to shift my original focus and pursue a theology major in addition to my existing major in mathematics.”

Fasteson was chosen for this honor by the Valedictorian and Salutatorian Committee, which consists of: Ms. Brenna Aylward, President of the Class of 2024; Ms. Jacqueline Chlapowski, Chair of the Commencement Committee; Dr. Eloise Knowlton, Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs (chair); Mr. Noah Laren, Vice President of the Class of 2024; Dr. Frank Prior, Professor of Sociology; Dr. Christian Williams, Professor of Human Services

Siera Larkin donates $500 Cash to Abundant Hope Pregnancy Resource Center

Siera Larkin 2024 UMass Dartmouth Graduate donates $500 cash to Abundant Hope Pregnancy Resource Center in Attleboro, MA.

Siera was one of the 2024 Graduates at the Umass Dartmouth Commencement ceremony that received a generous gift of $1000 cash from Mr. & Mrs. Robert Hale. Hale told the students each would get $1,000. But there was a condition: They were to keep $500 and give the other $500 away.

Siera is a member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Seekonk, and pro-life values are very important to her. “I am grateful to be able to help provide much-needed resources to women who are experiencing an unplanned pregnancy.”

Emily Fasteson

Abundant Hope is a Christian life-affirming ministry serving Greater Attleboro, Southeastern Massachusetts, Cape Cod and the Islands, and Northern Rhode Island. It offers pregnancy services, including testing, counseling, and obstetrical ultrasound. Abundant Hope is committed to serving women and families with grace, honesty, and love and provides accurate information from Boardcertified and licensed medical staff. It serves without discrimination and charges no fees for its services. Visit https://ahprc.org for more information.

Author Releases a Book Questioning

The Definition Of The Word Hell, and Its’ Usage In The Bible

EAST PROVIDENCE, RI — Michael Bahry has released a compelling and extremely well researched book that challenges conventional interpretations of the concept of hell as depicted in

the Bible. Titled, HELL IS A BAD WORD: A Place of Never-Ending Punishment that Jesus of Nazareth Never Spoke of. Bahry’s work explores the theological implications of the traditional understanding of hell and offers a fresh perspective rooted in mercy and justice.

After graduating from East Providence High School back in 1980, Michael went to college on a wrestling scholarship, but he found out rather quickly that he wasn’t ready for the college experience, so he left the University of Rhode Island. He settled into the construction industry, starting as a laborer, then worked as a carpenter for ten years. During those years, Michael completed college nights and on weekends, and he graduated from Providence College with honors. His goal was to teach history and Christianity, but when he graduated, he had two children and it no longer seemed financially feasible. So, he transitioned to construction management.

At the age of 53, Michael decided to go back to school to learn more about Christianity. In seven years, he earned two graduate degrees at Providence College, one in theology/early church history, and another in Biblical studies. He graduated with honors in both programs and is a member of the Theta

Alpha Kappa–National Honor Society for Religious Studies & Theology. The second graduate degree required a 70–75-page thesis and the title of his work was, “Hell and the Savior of the World”; it was fifty pages longer than required. The thesis was accepted “with distinction” by a distinguished advisor and two distinguished readers, all of which are theology professors at Providence College. It is notable that he completed all this while running the commercial construction company that he founded 13 years ago, and a nonprofit agency he established 10 years ago.

After graduation he edited his thesis to make it more readable, added chapters to make it more comprehensive, and published a book called, HELL IS A BAD WORD: A Place of Never-Ending Punishment that Jesus of Nazareth Never Spoke of. The focus of the book is on the mercy and justice of God, and it questions the definition of hell, and the use of the word in the Bible. The book achieved #1 status on Amazon for New Releases of Books on “Ecumenism”, which is a category of books written to promote unity among the world’s Christian religions.

Michael has transitioned from the construction industry to teaching at the college level. He is an adjunct instructor at Salve Regina University and teaches a world religion course called, The Quest for the Ultimate. He also continues to run the non-profit organization he founded back in 2014 called Fifty-Three: Five; the company provides spiritual and material assistance to those in need. Fifty-Three: Five has an all-volunteer workforce, including his work as executive director; every penny donated goes to those in need.

For media inquiries, review copies, or interview requests, please contact: Michael Bahry at 401-658-6295 or email him at info@ michaelbahry.com

Websites to refer to: https://michaelbahry.com/ (you will find a book trailer and chapter trailers on this site)

https://fiftythreefive.org/

Here are his social media handles: Instagram: michaelbahryauthor Facebook: michaelbahryauthor X: Michael_Bahry Youtube: michaelbahry6957

HELL IS A BAD WORD: A Place of Never-Ending Punishment that Jesus of Nazareth Never Spoke of. is available for purchase on Amazon and through other major book retailers.

Siera Larkin (left), Darlene Howard, Executive Director Abundant Hope,(right)

Twenty-Two Special Olympics Rhode Island Athletes Make History as Graduates of Inaugural Class of Athlete Leadership University

June 21, 2024 (Smithfield, RI) – After a year and a half of taking college-style courses to become certified leaders, the inaugural class of Special Olympics Rhode Island’s Athlete Leadership University celebrated their graduation on June 8 at Bryant University. This milestone marked the completion of a program by 22 Special Olympics Rhode Island athletes from across the state who mastered both basic and advanced core modules of Athlete Leadership, as well as specific courses related to one of three majors: Athlete Spokesperson, Athlete Representative, or Health Messenger.

“Athlete Leadership University provided a transformative learning experience for these athletes, empowering them with confidence and leadership skills to drive societal change,” said Ed Pacheco,

President and CEO of Special Olympics Rhode Island. “I am immensely proud of these individuals and cannot wait to see their future achievements with their newfound leadership skills.”

Special Olympics Rhode Island’s Athlete Leadership University (ALU) was conceived after Mary-Ellen Powers, a Special Olympics Rhode Island athlete from Barrington and Athlete Leadership Specialist for the organization, drew inspiration from successful ALU programs in other states. Modeled after these programs, Special Olympics Rhode Island’s ALU leverages the support of volunteer mentors from diverse professional backgrounds to guide athletes through essential leadership courses before they specialize in a major. Their learning journey culminates in capstone projects reflecting their chosen field of study. This program’s creation was showcased at the 2023 Global Athlete Congress in Berlin, Germany.

“Witnessing the growth of my fellow athletes through their participation in Athlete Leadership University has been truly inspiring,” said Powers. “They have amplified their voices, boosted their confidence, and embraced new leadership roles along the way. And let’s not forget their courage as trailblazers – the inaugural class of Athlete Leadership University is ready to lead!”

Local Graduates of Special Olympics Rhode Island’s first-ever Athlete Leadership University class are listed below along with athletes’ respective majors and hometowns.

Cote David - Athlete Spokesperson, Rehoboth, MA

Heather Wyrostek - Health Messenger, Seekonk, MA

Registration for the next cohort of Athlete Leadership University, starting in September, will soon be open to Special Olympics Rhode Island athletes. Interested athletes are encouraged to contact MaryEllen Powers at maryellen@specialolympicsri.org or 401-349-4900 extension 325. Alternatively, they can express their interest to their team coaches.

Graduates of Inaugural Class of Athlete Leadership University

University News

Stonehill College’s Spring 2024 Dean’s List Easton, MA -- Over 1,000 students earned a spot this semester.

From Seekonk: Bailey Adams, Matthew Anghinetti, Connor Barbary, Joshua Troiano

From Rehoboth: Emma DePalo, Peter Anghinetti, Emily D’Ambrosio, Thomas D’Ambrosio, Hailey Enos, Rosalie Martin

American International College Celebrates 2024 Graduates

Springfield, MA -- American International College (AIC) held its 139th commencement ceremony on May 11 at the Mass Mutual Center in Springfield, celebrating more than 600 graduates in the Class of 2024.

• Renee Dupre of Rehoboth received a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study degree in the School Leadership program.

• Kelly Smith of Seekonk received a Master of Education degree in the Reading Specialist program.

Kegan Mcgonigle of Rehoboth

Earns Dean’s

List Honors at American International College

Springfield, MA -- American International College (AIC) student

Kegan Mcgonigle of Rehoboth has earned Dean’s List honors for the Spring 2024 semester. Mcgonigle is majoring in Health Science.

508-933-9940

401-338-0895

Local Hamilton College Student Dominic Mauretti Named to NESCAC Spring All-Academic Team

Clinton, NY -- Dominic Mauretti was recently named to the 2024 New England Small College Athletic Conference (NESCAC) spring All-Academic Team for men’s lacrosse. The recognition honors sophomores, juniors, and seniors who have maintained a cumulative grade point average of 3.50 or higher. Mauretti, a rising junior majoring in computer science and mathematics, is a graduate of The Lawrenceville School.

Rachel Medeiros on Dean’s List at Johnson & Wales University

Congratulations to Rachel Medeiros of Rehoboth for making Dean’s List at Johnson & Wales University. Rachel is a biology/ chemistry double major. Well done, Rachel!

Rehoboth Student Receives School of Architecture and Design Award

Old Westbury, NY -- As part of New York Institute of Technology’s 63rd annual commencement, the School of Architecture and Design recognized outstanding members of the Class of 2024, including Mike Saad, who received the Dean’s Award for Excellence.

Bryant University Students Named to Spring 2024 Deans’ List

Smithfield, RI -- Bryant University is pleased to recognize the students who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to academic excellence and achievement and have been named to the Spring 2024 Deans’ List.

From Rehoboth: Kara Bisbano, Paul Castro, Janell Gamboa, Jake Johnson

From Seekonk: Jack McNulty, Ryan Rebelo

Salve Regina University Spring 2024 Dean’s List

Newport, RI -- The following students were named to the Dean’s List during the spring 2024 academic semester at Salve Regina University. To qualify for the Dean’s List, students must earn a semester grade point average of 3.6 for full-time students completing at least 12 graded credits, or a semester grade point average of 3.8 for part-time students completing at least six credits.

Allison Houle, Madison Mirabile, Sandra Mota, Shawn Pichardo

Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Spring 2024 Dean’s List

Dentistry At Its

Heirloom Clock Repairs & Servicing

Worcester, MA -- A total of 2,226 undergraduate students at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) achieved the criteria required for the university’s spring 2024 Dean’s List.

The following students were named to the Dean’s List :

• Bella DeCilio, of Rehoboth, class of 2025, majoring in Biochemistry

• Joseph Mello, of Seekonk, class of 2027, majoring in Electrical and Computer Engineering

Dentistry At Its MOST Comfortable.

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

● Laser Dentistry

● Comprehensive Care

● Cosmetic Dentistry

● Bonding

● Dental Implants

● Emergency Treatment

Dr. Gabriel Wassouf

Rehoboth Commons Above the Post Office

275 Winthrop Street (Route 44), Rehoboth, MA 508 252-6121

Dr. Gabriel Wassouf

Dr. Alicia Tavares

Abbie Green-Sermak Named to Dean’s List at St. Joseph’s College of Maine

Abbie Green-Sermak, a resident of Rehoboth, was named to the Spring 2024 Dean’s List at St. Joseph’s College of Maine. She is enrolled in the pre-physical therapy honors program at the college and plays on the softball team.

Abbie Green-Sermak named to the GNAC Academic All-Conference Team

Abbie Green-Sermak, a resident of Rehoboth, MA, was named to the GNAC Academic All-Conference Team, softball. Abbie attends St. Joseph’s College of Maine and is a sophomore. She is studying Exercise Science / Pre PT.

Spring 2024 Graduates Announced at UA

Tuscaloosa, AL-- A recent economic analysis found that a degree from The University of Alabama has proven to provide an abundant return on investment for graduates, setting the stage for legendary careers while also creating priceless experiences and memories.

Local graduates include:

• Daniel Charest received a Master of Arts.

• Matthew Dumond received a Bachelor of Science in Commerce & Business Administration

Dean’s List Students Named for UA Spring 2024 Term

Tuscaloosa, AL -- A total of 13,103 students enrolled during Spring Semester 2024 at The University of Alabama were named to the dean’s list with an academic record of 3.5 (or above) or the president’s list with an academic record of 4.0 (all A’s). These driven students are making waves across UA’s more than 70 undergraduate programs.

Local students: Kayla Morency, Cecilia Neary.

Woodcock Earns Spot on Emmanuel College Spring 2024 Dean’s List

Boston, MA -- Emmanuel College in Boston has named Julia Woodcock of Seekonk to the Dean’s List for the Spring 2024 Semester. To earn a spot on the Dean’s List, Emmanuel students must achieve a grade point average of 3.5 or higher for a 16-credit semester.

Rehoboth Resident Makes Keene State Dean’s List

Matthew Proctor of Rehoboth, Massachusetts, has been named to the Dean’s List at Keene State College for the Spring 2024 semester.A rising senior, Proctor is a Construction Management major. This degree prepares students for a leadership role in the design/build process as a Construction Manager. Matthew is the son of Marlene and Robert Proctor of Rehoboth.

Quincey Munson Named to President’s List at Plymouth State University

Plymouth, NH -- Quincey Munson of Rehoboth, MA, has been named to the Plymouth State University President’s List for the Spring 2024 semester. To be named to the President’s List, a student must achieve a grade point average of 3.70 or better for the Spring 2024 semester and must have completed at least 12 credit hours during the semester, at least nine of which must confer grade points, at the time the lists are finalized. Munson is a Social Work major at Plymouth State

Aiden Searle Named to Dean’s List at Plymouth State University

Plymouth, NH -- Aiden Searle of Rehoboth, MA, has been named to the Plymouth State University Dean’s List for the Spring 2024 semester. To be named to the Dean’s List, a student must achieve a grade point average between 3.50 and 3.69 during the Spring 2024 semester and must have completed at least 12 credit hours during the semester, at least nine of which must confer grade points, at the time the lists are finalized. Searle is a Marketing major at Plymouth State.

Local residents named to RIT Dean’s List

Rochester, NY -- The following students were named to the Dean’s List at Rochester Institute of Technology for the spring semester of the 2023-2024 academic year. Full-time degree-seeking undergraduate students are eligible for Dean’s List if their term GPA is greater than or equal to 3.400; they do not have any grades of “Incomplete”, “D” or “F”; and they have registered for, and completed, at least 12 credit hours.

• John Lewandowski of Rehoboth, who is in the biomedical engineering program.

• Jakob Gries of Seekonk, who is in the computer engineering technology program.

Area residents receive degrees from Clark University

Worcester, MA. -- Clark University awarded 1,376 degrees (503 bachelor’s, 847 master’s, 26 doctoral degrees) to the Class of 2024 and conferred four honorary degrees during the University’s 120th Commencement exercises on Monday, May 20. The graduates included 653 international students representing 39 countries.

• Rachael Susan Romain, from Seekonk, graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts.

• Lindsay Taylor Carlson, from Rehoboth, graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts.

University of Rhode Island

Celebrates more than 4,100 new graduates during 2024 Commencement

Kingston, RI -- The University of Rhode Island celebrated more than 4,100 of its newest alumni during the University’s 2024 Commencement. Nearly 4,000 undergraduate degrees and 800 graduate degrees were conveyed to students during the ceremonies which took place May 17-19, 2024.

From Rehoboth: Maryssa Bizier, Seth Cordeiro, Olivia DaSilva, Michael DuPont, Jordan Fernandes, Catherine McLaughlin, Shane Mello, Lindsey Moran, Melina Nuttall, Megan Reilly, Richard Silvia

From Seekonk: Jaimee Deslauriers, Leon Freeman, Morgan Halpin, Olivia Klegraefe, Jared Kogut, Benjamin Lunnie, Bethany Pucino, Joshua Valente, Sonya Valente, Austin Wellman

More than 6,800 University of Rhode Island students named to Spring 2024 Dean’s List

Kingston, RI -- The University of Rhode Island is pleased to announce the Spring 2024 Dean’s List. Students named to the Dean’s List represent nearly all of Rhode Island’s cities and towns, all six New England states, New York and New Jersey, and many other states and countries.

From Rehoboth: Isaac Bates, Emma Chapman, Seth Cordeiro, Jack Guddie, Jordan Fernandes, Shane Mello, Lindsey Moran, Megan Oliveira, Megan Reilly, Aelyn Tougas, George Turnbull, Vivian Vieira

From Seekonk: Ace Ayotte, Ethan Clarke, Sarah Douglas, Andrew Duhancik, Isabella Lachance, Victoria Luis, Kayla Owens, Joseph Perez, Tyler Massud, Jazlyn Monteiro, Bethany Pucino, Jaimee Deslauriers, Cullen Steitz, Austin Wellman

What is your project about?

I constructed 7 wooden bat houses that provide a safe habitat for my local bat species. These shelters will help give bats a safe place to live and hopefully allow them to increase their population. My houses were donated to the Wildlife Rehabilitators Association of Rhode Island and placed in trees in the woods. The houses were coated with weather-resistant stain to preserve them, and should provide many years of use to successive generations of bats.

Why was your project important to you?

This project was important to me because I have always enjoyed the field of Environmental Science. I have explored many facets of Natural Science in my badges, schoolwork, and independent study. I hope to continue studying this area of science in college, where I hope to major in Marine Biology. I knew that our local bat species were approaching critical population levels, and humans were experiencing increased amounts of pests. The negative balance of pests to bats, caused increased pesticide use which is harmful to the environment and humans alike. Moreover, these chemicals also killed many bees.

#BecauseofGirlScouts #gsGoldAward #maketheworldabetterplace #gssne Girl

Seekonk Public Library

www.seekonkpl.org

Nature Photography Tips & Photo Walk

Saturday, July 13 from 10 AM to 12 noon

Multiply the benefits of getting outdoors this season by capturing moments in photographs as you walk! Local artist and photographer Josè Lacerda will review photos to provide tips for getting your best nature shots with a manual, digital or phone camera. You will then put your new knowledge to work taking photos in Seekonk Meadows and Gammino Pond Trail. This is a great time to prepare your entries for the Seekonk Nature Photography contest returning this fall! Pre-registration is required. Register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events. For more information call Adult Services at 508-336-8230 x56130 or email library@seekonkpl.org.

Library Tech Class: Google Maps

Tuesday, July 16 at 2 PM

Do you want to get more out of your smartphone or tablet? Bring your device to our monthly Library Tech Class. In each session we will provide an introduction to the most useful tools available to

Real Estate Brokerage TRAVASSOS & KUSIAK

Jean M Kusiak

Broker/Owner, GRI, Notary 20 years experience

(401) 225-3700

www.TKREB.com

use on your mobile device or help getting started. This program is open to smartphone, tablet, and laptop users. You must bring your own device, one device per person; make sure the device is fully charged. Space is limited; registration is required. Register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events. For more information or for help with registration, call Adult Services at 508-336-8230 x56130 or email library@seekonkpl.org.

Learn the Way of Tea in a Japanese Tea Ceremony

Thursday, July 18 at 5:30 PM

We typically drink a glass of iced tea in the summer as a casual refreshing treat, but there is a whole other way to enjoy tea! Master teacher Eri Pace will show the way of tea, including the meticulous preparation using Gyokuro leaves, aesthetics of the service, and how to receive the green tea as a guest. Space is limited; registration is required. Register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl. org/events. Call the Adult Services department at (508) 336-8230 or email library@seekonkpl.org for more information.

Nonfiction Book Club:

The Big Burn by Timothy Egan

Tuesday, July 30th at 6:00 PM

Join us for a lively discussion of The Big Burn: Teddy Roosevelt and the Fire that Saved America by Timothy Egan. New members are always welcome!

“On the afternoon of August 20, 1910, a battering ram of wind moved through the drought-stricken national forest of Washington, Idaho, and Montana, whipping the hundreds of small blazes burning across the forest floor into a roaring inferno. Forest rangers had assembled nearly ten thousand men—college boys, day workers, immigrants from mining camps—to fight the fire. But no living person had seen anything like those flames, and neither the rangers nor anyone else knew how to subdue them.

Timothy Egan narrates the struggles of the overmatched rangers against the implacable fire with unstoppable dramatic force. Equally dramatic is the larger story he tells of outsize president Teddy

Roosevelt and his chief forester, Gifford Pinchot. Pioneering the notion of conservation, Roosevelt and Pinchot did nothing less than create the idea of public land as our national treasure, owned by and preserved for every citizen.” – from Amazon

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

Learn All About Fireflies

Wednesday, July 24 at 6 PM

Fireflies are one of the delights of late summer evenings outdoors; how can we better enjoy them and protect them for generations to come? Ryan Gould, Education Coordinator at Oak Knoll Mass Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary, will be on hand to teach you why they light up, how to identify them by flash patterns, and how to protect and engage with them, even attract them to your own backyard. For planning purposes and to be notified of event changes, register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/ events. Call the Adult Services department at (508) 336-8230 or email library@seekonkpl. org for more information.

Waste Not, Want Not: Seekonk Trash & Recycling Updates

Thursday, July 25 at 6:30 PM

The new recycling contract in Seekonk began on July 1. Come to this engaging and informative program from the Seekonk Recycling Committee to get an update on what’s accepted, managing your collection bins and other disposal and recycling questions. You’ll also find out about disposal and recycling options in our community beyond the curbside bins. This program is free and open to the public; to be notified of event updates and for planning, please register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl. org/events. For more information, call Adult Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email library@seekonkpl.org.

Summer Reading Challenge Kit: DIY Butterfly House

Consider taking our summer theme of conservation closer to home! Register for a DIY Butterfly House Kit for an unfinished wood kit to paint and embellish on your own. Kits include instructions and hanging cord for house 4½” × 4½” × 7”. Use your creativity to provide a place for butterflies to rest their wings in your garden or yard! Quantity is limited, one kit per registration; register with a SAILS library card in the online Events

Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events. Registration opens July 1. For more information or help registering, call Adult Services at 508-336-8230 extension 56130 or email library@seekonkpl.org.

Teens & Tweens

Summer Reading Program for Teens

Tweens and Teens in rising grades 6 and up, you’re invited to join Seekonk Public Library’s Summer Reading Challenge in-person and online! Log into the free Beanstack app to sign up for the “Read, Renew, Repeat” challenge and collect virtual badges for logging your reading, writing reviews, and participating in activities. Each badge earns one or more raffle tickets that you can enter into weekly online drawings as well as a variety of grand prize drawings. You’ll also want to come visit the library in-person for the fun and unique teen programs listed below, as well as to participate in a drop-in scavenger hunt and pick up a weekly pop-in charm for your bracelet (or shoes).

Iron-On T-Shirts

Thursday, July 11, 2 PM

Create a custom iron-on decal using Silhouette Studio software and our Silhouette Cameo 4 cutting machine and make a t-shirt with your personalized design to take home! T-shirts and vinyl will be provided, but participants are encouraged to bring their own Windows or Mac laptop and download the free design software for use during the program. This 2-hour event is free and open to tweens and teens in rising grades 6 through 12. Registration is required.

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

Crafternoon

Thursday, July 18, 2 PM

Get it? It’s a craft...in the afternoon... Join us for a relaxed session of creativity and exploration. Choose from a variety of craft supplies and see what inspiration comes to you! We’ll also browse through Creativebug, a subscription-based arts and crafts resource provided free to patrons through Seekonk Public Library. This 2-hour event is free and open to tweens and teens in rising grades 6 through 12. Registration is required.

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

continued on next page...

Your dream DESTINATION WEDDING awaits on Tybee Island, GA

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

Accommodates wedding receptions up to 140

208 onsite guest rooms

Breathtaking, panoramic views of the beach and Atlantic Ocean

Fly direct from Boston to Savannah

The only thing we overlook is the ocean.

Improv Workshop

Thursday, July 25, 2 PM

Experience the fun of improvisational acting in this two-hour workshop. Deej Shafer of Kismet Improv will go over the basics of improv, then he’ll lead the group in some games and short scenes. No acting experience needed! This 2-hour event is free and open to tweens and teens in rising grades 6 through 12. Registration is required. For more information, call Adult Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email teens@seekonkpl.org.

Henna Workshop

Thursday, August 1, 2 PM

Discover the beauty and tradition of henna, a plant-based material used in the ancient form of temporary body art called mehndi. You’ll get your own henna design from artist and workshop instructor Rani MacNeal, and you’ll even learn how to do it yourself! This 2-hour event is free and open to tweens and teens in rising grades 6 through 12. Registration is required. For more information, call Adult Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email teens@ seekonkpl.org.

Magic & Merriment

Thursday, August 8, 2 PM

Hear ye, hear ye! The final program of the summer is a tribute to imagination and adventure! Join us for a fantasy-themed party with games, snacks, and prizes. Bring your love of magic and monsters, fairies and folklore, and feel free to dress up! If you’ve been keeping a wizard’s cloak or elf ears in your closet, now is the time to bring them out! This 2-hour event is free and open to tweens and teens in rising grades 6 through 12. Registration is required. For more information, call Adult Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email teens@seekonkpl.org.

From the Children's Room Summer Reading Challenge

June 13- Aug 8th

Ages 0- entering grade 5. Read, Renew, Repeat! Register now for our summer reading challenge at Seekonkpl.beanstack.org! Log your minutes to earn virtual raffle tickets towards great prizes, your goal is to read 20 minutes a day. Complete activities and write book reviews for additional virtual raffle tickets! Stop by the Children’s Room to collect your weekly charms for your bracelet (or shoes!) and endangered animal card and enter our in-person raffles!

Dancin’ with Hoops with Judi Jones

Monday, July 8 10 AM- ages 2-5; 11:15 AM- ages 5+

Join us for an energetic hula hooping program featuring Judi Jones aka ENERGIZER. Dancin’ with Hoops blends creative movement, dance, exercise, and play. Custom hula hoops are provided for use. Following, Judi will entertain you with a high-energy hula hoop performance. Register.

Pumpernickel Puppets Presents:

Sir George and the Dragon

Monday, July 15, 6 PM, ages 3+

Join an adventurous princess as she journeys to Mystery Mountain to visit the Great Green Dragon. Along the way you’ll meet Zelda the babysitter, a silly bat, Sir George and his clumsy dog, and of course the lovable dragon. Not to worry, everything ends happily in this fun show. Presented with large colorful hand puppets, live voices and sound effects. Register.

This program is funded by the Seekonk Cultural Council, a local agency funded by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.

STAR MARBLE & GRANITE

Custom

• Kitchen Countertops

• Vanity Tops

• Island Kitchens • Fireplaces & more

RE-UPHOLSTER

We Are Water Protectors

Tuesday, July 16, 10 AM, Grades K-3

Learn about water protection, what pollutes our water, and how we can help. Join Ms Corey to do simple experiments playing in water. YES, you may get wet! Register.

Paws to Read

Wednesdays, July 17 & 31, 10-11 AM (timeslots)

Build reading skills and gain confidence in reading aloud by coming to the Library to Paws to Read! Register to reserve a 15-minute time slot to have your child read to Gizmo and Pepe, two adorable chihuahua/pomeranian mix therapy dogs. Research has shown that reading aloud to another person can help struggling readers with their overall performance and confidence. But did you know that reading comprehension improves even more when reading to a dog rather than an adult? It’s true! Registration is required.

Incredible Earthworms

Saturday, July 20, 10 AM

Ages 5+. Learn about earthworms and the important role they play in our environment. Discover an earthworm’s anatomy and learn how it has adapted to its life underground. We will learn about how they break down living and dead material, and turn it into nutrient-rich soil Develop a new appreciation for these simple invertebrates while learning about decomposing and soil recycling. Observe live earthworms with magnifiers! Participants will make their own worm farms, so please bring a clean glass jar from your recycling bin! Regsiter.

Pokemon Community Day!

Wednesday, July 31, 5:30 PM

Play Pokemon Go in the Meadows. Then join us in the large meeting room for Pokemon Card Games, a card exchange station, and collect your free Pokemon Card. Choose your favorite character in our Pokemon Polling station, figure out who is missing in Pokemon iSpy, create your own Pokemon Card, and build your favorite character out of Legos. All ages are welcome, just drop in!

The only thing you absolutely have to know is the location of the library. -Albert Einstein

STORYTIMES

Storytime in the Meadows

Fridays, July 5- August 9th, 10 AM

All ages, drop in. Join us for a weekly storytime for all ages! We’ll meet outside in the gazebo at 10 am for stories and more! In the case of inclement weather, storytime will be moved inside. Please bring a blanket or towel to sit on outside. Registration is NOT required, but please bring your SAILS library card to bring more books home and continue the storytime adventure!

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

Storytime at the Seekonk Fire Museum

Thursday, July 25, 10 AM

Ages 2.5-6. Join Ms Sandie for a visit to the Seekonk Fire Museum! We’ll read stories about Fire Fighters and Fire Stations, we’ll have a tour of the Fire Museum, and we’ll even get to sit on a fire truck! Register.

News and Notes from... Blanding Library

By Leslie Patterson

Ms. Frizzle Talks about Dinosaurs

July 8 at 11 am

Join Carole Finn Weidman as we go on an adventure with Miss Frizzle and the Magic School Bus to learn all about dinosaurs on Monday July 8 at 11 am. Suggested for children ages 3 and older. No registration required.

Dr. Rosie Helps the Animals

July 16 at 10:30 am

Children aged 3 and up will learn about Dr. Rosie and take part in an interactive reading with Jennifer Welborn and Rozillia Mh. Children are encouraged to bring their own stuffed animal from home. Signed copies of “Dr. Rosie helps the Animals” will be available for purchase with proceeds going to a veterinary scholarship fund. Registration is required; space is limited.

Sailors’ Valentines

July 17 at 6:30 pm

Sailors’ Valentines were popular gifts of shellcraft brought home by Navy and whaling sailors in the 1800s. Join us and create your own decorative framed version of a vintage sailor’s valentine. For ages 15 and up. Please register ahead, space is limited. All materials provided.

“I Can Do Ballet”

July 19 at 1 pm

Children ages 6 to 8 will learn the elements of beginning ballet while having fun, led by instructor and professional dancer Miss Joy Lima. Numbers are limited and registration is required.

Story Hours This Summer

Ongoing children’s programs at the Blanding include Baby and Toddler Storytimes on Tuesdays from 10:30 to 11 for children and caregivers, prepared for children up through age 4. Pre-school Story Times are held on Thursdays from 10:30 to 11:30 for children ages 3 and older. Children listen to stories and make a simple craft to take home. Siblings are welcome at all sessions.

There will be a few special story times this summer. Please register in advance for these story and craft times: Stories on the Lawn (bring a blanket) on July 11 at 10:30. Then on July 18 at 10:30, author Carla Marrero reads her purr-fectly wonderful cat stories, and on July 22, prepare for National Shark Week with a story & craft time at 10:30.

Japanese Folktales & Origami

July 25 at 11 am

Parents’ Choice Award-winning storyteller Motoko presents Japanese fables, enriched with songs, movement, and some audience participation. Under her step-by-step guidance, participants will make origami animals and learn techniques for making “foldalong” tales, in which a piece of paper is reused and transformed multiple times to represent different characters. This program is suggested for those in grades K-8 and their families. No registration needed. This program is funded by a grant from the Rehoboth Cultural Council.

Ocean Book Club & Art Exhibit

The Ocean Book Club will meet at the library on Sat. July 27 from 2-3 to discuss “The Soul of an Octopus” by Sy Montgomery, a selection related to our summer 2024 theme of The Ocean. Pick up your copy at the circulation desk.

Call for Entries! The library is hosting an Oceans of Art exhibition and would love your participation. The submission deadline is Aug. 22; works of art on display from Aug 26-31. There will be an exhibit reception Aug. 27 at 6:30. For more information on contest rules and entering, stop by the library or call 508-252-4236. Every entrant’s name will be entered into a drawing for prizes.

Science Heroes

July 29 at 3pm

Science Heroes and the Lost Treasure is an exciting STEM show combining the magic of stories with the wonders of science. Join a treasure-hunting adventure in the jungle as the audience helps act out a tale exploring exciting science concepts. Registration is required. Geared to children entering grades K to 5.

Nature Tales in August

The Rehoboth Land Trust presents “Nature Tales” Kids Reading to Kids. Teen volunteers will read picture books and poems about nature to children ages 3 and up; siblings welcome. A simple craft will be available. Please register for these programs, which will be held on Aug. 1, 8, 15 and 29 from 10:30 to 11:30.

Create a Felted Otter

August 5 at 11 am

Dive into needle-felting with PopUp Art School and create a fuzzy and playful otter holding a shell. You will learn the basic skills of needle-felting and have a finished piece when it’s completed. Sculptural needle felting is for those ages 12 and older. Space is limited, registration required.

Also coming up in August you can visit with Fiona the Inflatable Whale on Aug. 13, 14 and 15 and enjoy Joe’s Crazy Critters on Aug. 22. Look for more details to follow. The Summer Reading Program continues through Aug. 26. Stop by the library to get started, if you haven’t already.

The Blanding Public Library, 124 Bay State Rd. Rehoboth, is open Monday through Thursday from 10 to 8, and on Fridays and Saturdays from 10 to 4. Closed Sundays and holidays. Phone: 508-252-4236. Information on Blanding events can be found under Blanding Public Library programs and events on https://rehobothantiquarian.org/

Club News & ANNOUNCEMENTS

Stephen E. Navega, PC - ATTORNEY AT LAW -

Crafters’ Marketplace Vendors Needed: 2024 Craft Show to Benefit the Carpenter Museum

Seeking vendors for the Carpenter Museums’ 45th annual Crafters’ Marketplace. This year’s show will take place Saturday October 19th, 9AM-4PM.

This prestigious show approves artists through a committee selection. This show is committed to bringing quality handmade items from skilled crafters to their shoppers. The Marketplace is free to enter, free to park, and makes the perfect autumn outing. All proceeds go to the Carpenter Museum, a non-for-profit history and research center.

Vendor spaces start at just $65 for the day. Visit our website to download your application at rehobothantiquarian.org/crafters-marketplace . To learn more email the museum at director@rehobothantiquarian.org.

Durable Powers of Attorney

447 Taunton Avenue

Seekonk, MA 02771

T 508.336.8120

F 508.336.3350 navegalaw@aol.com

Providing legal services since 1979. Experience matters.

Rehoboth Garden Club News

On June 24, members of the Rehoboth Garden Club took a field trip to the exquisite Garden at Elm Bank in Wellesley, Massachusetts. The private tour was enjoyed by all. Renovation and restoration has begun on the Virginia Depuoy Memorial Garden on the Palmer River School campus. Virginia was a dedicated, energetic member of the club for many years.

Plans are being finalized to enhance the traffic islands at Elm and Summer Streets. Led by President Paul Nunes and Vice President Michael Seebeck, club members will be planting pollinator friendly, native perennials and other sustainable plants.

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

Rehoboth Lions Club Peace Poster Winner

The Rehoboth Lions Club is Pleased to announce that the Winner of the 2023 -2024 Peace poster winner is Amelia Trexter . This year’s theme was

“ Dare to Dream “ Amelia is a 6th grader at Beckwith Middle School. Pictured is Henry Piries Lions Club President Presenting Amelia with a winning check for $200.00 along with a certificate of participation . Great Job Amelia !!

2023 -2024 Peace poster winner Amelia Trexter

Kiwanis of Greater Seekonk awards

Morris Goldberg Scholarships

Class night on May 29th

Our first scholarship went to an amazing Key Club student, Mackenzie Carlsten.

Mackenzie has many honors. Some of them are; Maintaining Highest Highest Honors, Recipient of Brown University, Presidents Education Award for Outstanding Acedemic Excellence, 100 hours of community and countless others.

Mackenzie feels that she received more in return than what she gave. She aspires to become a doctor and hopes to attend the University of Virginia or Lehigh. Kiwanis would like to thank her and wish a very happy and satisfying future and career.

Our second scholarship went to another amazing student, Ariana Sanchez-Sousa.

Some of Arianas honors and achievements were earning 100 hours of community service hours, completing 315 hours helping children. Ariana also joined in Spring Fling, Making Strides for Breast Cancer and various other tasks. To Arian, community service is being able to give your time to help your community. She will continue to volunteer since she enjoys giving back to her community. Ariana aspires to become a Speech-Language Pathologist and plans on attending Syracuse University.

Kiwanis would like to thank her and wish her and wish her a very happy and satisfying future and career.

100 Hours of Community Service for the 2024 Class at Seekonk High School

The class of 2024 celebration began the morning of May 1st for 28 Seekonk Warriors as they were honored the morning at the Annual Breakfast, sponsored by the Seekonk High School Key Club, and former Kiwanis of Greater Seekonk. These students surpassed the community service requirement and then some. Kiwanis is very proud of these students and wish you all a wonderful future!

The students are: Eathan Alburquerque, Malachi Bastien, Alannah Boucher, Hailey Boucher, Sidney Brierly, Megan Capello, Charles Cardinale, Mackenzie Carlsten, Jillian Corriveau, Jorden Culpan, Felicia DaSilva, Tessa Deal, Olivia Gasior, Alexander Hardo, Seamus Kane, Karen Lawrence, Alena Matos, Kaylen McGovern, Jazmyn Melo, Jayde Moniz, Kristen Nguyen, Franchesca Pais, Vedika Patel, Lucas Pereira, Ariana Sanchez-Sousa, Sara Santoro, Hannah Sorrentino Alexander Wrightington.

Ariana Sanchez-Sousa

Mackenzie Carlsten

100 Hours of Community Service

The Hornbine School Museumin July

Are you looking for a local adventure for your family? Visit the Hornbine School any 2nd & 4th Sunday between 2pm & 4pm. We have several activities planned for you and your family.

We will have an ongoing, simple scavenger hunt for the “little ones”, with old fashioned hard candy as a reward, during all our OPEN HOUSES this season. We have pictures to see, “Old Fashioned games” to play, and other actives for our visitors.

July 14th we will have a Feather Pen Expert, Gil Bagley, demonstrating how to cut the tips for feather pens. You and your Family will have the opportunity to write your names in ink with real goose feathers.

Do you have any vintage pictures of Rehoboth Schools? On Sunday, July 28th, we will have our scanner available to scan vintage pictures. We are especially interested in pictures of any of the closed schools which include Pleasant Street School, Anawan School or North Rehoboth Schools, as well as any one room schools. We’d also appreciate any vintage Palmer River or Beckwith pictures.

Do you have any vintage pictures from the Hornbine Neighborhood? We are looking for any pictures of the Farms, Hornbine Church, Hornbine Achers Clambakes, Reese’ Store, and/or Hornbine School pictures etc.

The Hornbine School Museum is located at 144 Hornbine Road in Rehoboth and open between 2pm & 4pm the 2nd and 4th Sundays during the season. Look for more activities we have planned for you in the next Rehoboth Reporter and our Facebook page, “Hornbine School Museum”

The Hornbine School Museum

American Legion Post 302 Public Events

• Try our Fish & Chips or Sea Scallops – every Thursdays 4:00 till 7:00 P.M. & Fridays 4:00 – 8 PM.Take Outs are welcome – call in your order in early for pickup at 508-252-9079

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

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

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

Upcoming Events

• July 12th, 2024 - Friday - 7:00-10:00 P.M., Greg Hodde’s Blue Reign, Classic Rock – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart

• JULY 13th,2024 – Saturday - 4:00 -10:30 P.M. Dinner served at 6:00 AMERICAN LEGION’S 2nd ANNUAL PORTUGUESE DINNER with OS CAPITOLISTS PORTUGUESE BAND $35.00 for the whole package dinner & entertainment or $10.00 entry fee for only the entertainment – wristbands are required and will be issued at the entrance https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/

• July 14th,2024 – Sunday -7:30 -10:30 A.M. American Legion & Anawan Lions Monthly Breakfast, Second Sunday of every month $12.00 donation - All you can Eat! https://www.facebook.com/

groups/657024961125913/

• July 19th, 2024 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – Rock-A-Blues Band with Classic Rock Music – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! https://www. rockablues.com

• July 20th, 2024 - Saturday – 7:00 - 10:00 P.M.,

• July 26th, 2024 – Friday - 6:00-8:00 P.M., Sons of the American Legion’s Monthly Meat Raffle followed by Karaoke - 8:0011:00 P.M. – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Singing, Dancing & having a GREAT TIME! https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/

• July 26th, 2024 – Friday - 8:00-11:00 P.M. + – Live Karaoke performed by our own Karaoke Entertainment, Come on in and sing a song or two – No Cover Charge! –Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME! https://www. facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/

• July 27th, 2024 - Saturday – 7:00 - 10:00 P.M., – Live Music performed by Notorious Jones Entertainment with Classic Rock Music – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100063368911454

Francis Hall

Rehoboth Council on Aging

27 Francis Farm Road, Rehoboth

Phone 508-252-3372

Fax 508-252-4716

Monday - Thursday

8:00am to 4:00pm

Fridays 8:00am to Noon

Breakfast

Mon / Wed / Fri From 8:30-10

Lunch

Mon / Wed @ Noon. Come join us

Gert’s Café Sock Hop

Monday August 12th

Tickets $5.00

Walk with a First Responder

1st Wednesday of every month 11:00AM

Come & Join Us

Book Club

First Monday of Month at 10:00am

Monday in the Arcade

The Book for August is Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet By Jaime Ford

Join Our Walking Club

Mon-Wed-Friday 9:30AM

Please note new start time

NEW CLASS: Line Dancing

Mondays 1:00PM

Eileen Pontes Instructor. $3.00 Donation

Join our Email List

Updates during the month COAmail@rehobothma.gov

Craft Supplies Needed

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

Your donations are greatly appreciated

ACTIVITIES

Mondays

8:30-10 BREAKFAST

10:00-11:00 Cribbage

9:30 Walking Club

10:00 Bocce

10:00 Cornhole Toss

Noon Gert’s Café ~ Ltd seating ~ $3.00

1:00 Line Dancing (NEW) $3.00

Tuesdays

9:00 Dancer-cise $3.00

10:00-Noon Jewelry Making Class $5.00

10:00 S.E.A.T

10:00 Sewing & Quilting

11:00 Blanace & Stretch

1:00 Hi-Lo Jack

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

Wednesdays

8:30 - 10:00 Breakfast

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

9:30 Walking Club

10:00 Bocce

10:00 Cornhole Toss

Noon Lunch

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

1:00-3:00 Dominoes

Thursday

9:00 Tai Chi

10:00 Drums Alive $3.00

11:00 Stretch & Flex Class $3.00

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

1:00-3:00 Watercolor Class $5.00

Friday

8:30 - 10:00 Breakfast (NEW)

9:30 Walking Club

10:00 Bocce

10:00 Cornhole Toss

10:00 Jenga

Rehoboth Public Health Nurse

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

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

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

• Wellness Clinic Wednesday 11:00-Noon

• Podiatry Clinic: Last Thursday of the month

• Blood Pressures & Glucose Screenings:: Please contact Geri Hamel for more information.

Seekonk Human Services

Hip Hop Chair Dance!

Wed, July 10, 2024 @ 11:30am

The movement in this exercise class will keep you limber and can slow down the decline of cognitive disabilities. If you want to keep yourself mobile come and try out this Hip Hop Exercise class. This class is specifically designed for seniors. *This program is supported by a grant from the Seekonk Cultural Council. Preregistration is required.

Fran Hart

“1970 - Me Generation”

Wed, July 17, 2024 @ 1:00pm

The “Me generation” is a term referring to Baby Boomers in the U.S.A and the self-involved qualities associated with this generation. The 1970s it was dubbed the “Me decade” by writer Tom Wolfe. In this one-hour presentation by Fran Hart, He will talk about some issues that marked the 70s. *This program is supported by a grant from the Seekonk Cultural Council. Preregistration is required.

2nd Annual Men’s Barbecue

Wed, July 31, 2024 at 12:00 noon

Join us for our barbecue party honoring Seekonk men age 60 and older at Seekonk Human Services, 540 Arcade Avenue

Hosted by Seekonk Human Services

Sponsored by Friends of Friends

Catered by The Cooks House

R.S.V.P. by Monday, July 22, 2024

Arts & Crafts

From 9:30am - 11:30am

The fee for residents is $5 and nonresidents is $10.

July 5, 2024 - Felt Flowers (continued)

July 19, 2024 - Rock Painting

August 2, 2024 - Slate Signs

August 16, 2024 - Decoupage Shells

Contact the office for more information. Preregistration is required with payment. Projects are subject to change. Payment is due at

Farmers’ Market Coupons

Farmers’ Market Coupons will soon be available for low-income elders age 60 or older. Participants must reside in Seekonk. The coupons have a total value of $50 and may be used to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables. A limited number of coupons are available. Please call the office to see if you qualify!

Outdoor Activities

Bocce, Horseshoes & Cornhole

All activities will be played at 11:00am. Bocce will be on Mondays, Horseshoes on Tuesdays and Cornhole on Wednesdays. Preregistration is required by calling our office at 508-336-8772. Activities are weather dependent.

Podiatry Clinic

Wed, July 3, 2024 10:00 - 2:00pm

Dr. Lechan provides monthly podiatry clinics. An ap-appointment is required. Items needed are insurance cards with your primary doctor’s name, date of last doctor’s visit, summary of last visit, and list of medications. *Please check with your insurance regarding co-pays. Please call our office to make an appointment.

Blood Pressure & Glucose Clinic

Wed, July 17, 2024 9:00 - 11:00am

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

Let’s Learn Together!

Tuesday, July 23, 2024 at 2:30pm

Do you have questions about using your smartphone, or tablet? Bring them to the Tech Help Hour. The goal of this session is to help each other learn how to use technology better. There is no set agenda, just your questions and answer, favorite tips and tools. This program is moderated by Seekonk Public Library staff. Bring your own tablet, phone, or laptop. Please make sure your device is fully charged. Contact our office to register by calling 508-336-8772.

Telephone Reassurance Program

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

The Telephone Reassurance Program provides a peace of mind for the individual continued on next page...

and their loved ones. This program is designed for senior citizens, disabled persons and shut-ins living in Seekonk who may be at risk of loneliness, social isolation, illness or injury.

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

Nutritional Meals To Go

Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays

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

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

Medical Loan Closet

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

Exercise Classes

Mondays

Movement & Meditation 10am

Strength & Cardio 1pm

Tuesdays

Drums Alive 9am

Watercolors 10am

Wednesdays

Stability and Balance 8:45am

Drums Alive 9:30am

Thursdays

Mat Exercise 9am

Movement & Meditation 10am

Fridays

Dance Cardio 9:15am

Tai Chi 10:30am

*All activities are subject to pre-registration

but get stumped on what to make? Then this class is perfect for you. Come join Heather MacKnight for this 45-minute nutritional cooking class. During this class Heather will be making a homemade Caesar salad with homemade dressing and homemade croutons. Who doesn’t like a homemade meal from scratch? Caesar salad is perfect for lunch on these hot summer days or added to a dish of your choice. Refreshments will be available. Preregistration is required and opens July 15. *A donation of $4.00 is suggested.

Musical Entertainment by Singer,

Lady D

Wed, August 14, 2024 @ 1pm

Established in 1940, 3rd Generation

Card Games

Play an old favorite or learn something new!

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

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

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

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

Peter Batty

RI Reg. # 33335 / MA Reg. # CS51340

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

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

Nutritional Cooking

Wed, August 7, 2024 @ 1pm

Do you like to eat healthy nutritious foods

A Rhode Island native, Lady D loves to perform locally for all. Lady D is a multigenre vocalist (jazz standards, Motown, Do-Wop, Disco, Smooth R&B, and Pop). She is known for singing in local restaurants in RI and MA, DePasquale Plaza Fed Hill, RI. Come join as she sings songs from all genres. Light refreshments and pastry will be available. Preregistration is required and opens July 15.

Magic Show

By Dennis the Magician

Wed, August 21, 2024 @ 1pm

Dennis is a full-time, professional NJ magician for the past 25+ years. His show features magic, comedy, illusions, live animals and audience participation. One of the most talented magicians in NJ, Dennis has performed in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York areas. That’s not to mention the many Birthday Party shows he’s performed at various homes and restaurants. All of Dennis’ shows are totally self-contained. From props to tables to music to curtains, he brings everything he’ll need to deliver the coolest magic show in Massachusetts even laughs are included. Refreshments will be available. Preregistration is required and opens July 15.

Healthy Aging Lunch & Learn

Wed, August 28, 2024 at 11:30am

Nutritional Jeopardy for healthy aging! The presentation will be about seeing what you know about nutrition as well as learning with Bristol Elder Services Registered Dietitian, Dawn DiMarco. These days there is so much nutrition information going around between what you hear on TV, read in the news, or see online. Most nutrition advice in the media is not accurate. If you are looking for nutrition advice, always ask a Registered Dietitian. Lunch consists of Korean meatballs, Asian rice, oriental veggies, dinner rolls, lemonade and brownies. Preregistration is required and opens July 15.

Email List

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

Park & Recreation

Welcome to July! The National Recreation and Park Association has designated July as Parks and Recreation Month. Towns all across the nation will be highlighting their parks and recreation departments. Seekonk Parks and Recreation not only consists of myself, it also consists of the Parks and Recreation Committee. This committee is made up of five community members who bring many different perspectives to the committee. Together, we discuss, plan and implement projects of all kinds. The knowledge and ideas they bring are diverse and helpful. Another vital piece to our success is Seekonk DPW. They not only maintain the fields during the seasons, they have also helped on countless projects and taken my ideas and turned them into reality. I look forward to all we will be able to accomplish as a team in the coming years. We love hearing from the community on the ideas they have for what we can look into. Working together with members of the community and DPW we were able to construct a communication board at the Seekonk Playground. The communication boards were granted to us by the Doug Flutie Jr Foundation, and the base we used to display them was designed and constructed by DPW. Without members of the community letting us know of the program, we would not have been able to add such a valuable piece to the playground. Seekonk Parks and Recreations looks forward to the continued partnership with the community.

Veterans Corner

Vettix.org (Tickets for Veterans)

Vettix (aka Veteran Tickets Foundation’s Tickets for Troops Program) is dedicated to giving back to those who gave us so much. They team up with major sports teams, leagues, promoters, organizations, venues and every day event ticket holders to provide free tickets to currently serving and veterans of all branches of the US military.

To date, the Veteran Tickets Foundation has provided event tickets to 22,516,550 events and have been given out in all 50 States and Washington, DC to our military, veterans and their families.

Vet Tix provides tickets to events which reduce stress, strengthen family bonds, build life-long memories and encourage service members and veterans to stay engaged with local communities and American life. They support our troops by honoring their service and providing positive family and life experi-

ences, during and after their years of service to our country.

Vet Tix provides tickets to all branches of currently-serving military and veterans, including immediate family of troops KIA.

Vet Tix secures tickets to sporting events, concerts, performing arts, educational and family activities across the nation. Vet Tix applicants sign up online. They will verify their service. Veterans request tickets to events that interest them, then pay a small delivery fee to receive their free tickets.

Once you are registered, Vettix will send out emails to events that interest the veteran within a mileage radius that they are willing to travel to events.

Go online to vettix.org to register. If you wish to donate tickets, there is a way to do that on the site via the “Give Back” dropdown.

James LaFlame, Seekonk Veterans Services Officer

Office 508-336-2940

Email: jlaflame@seekonk-ma.gov

The center is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 8:30am - 4:30pm, Wednesday 8:30am - 5:30pm and Friday 8:30am - 12:00pm. Come and enjoy the activities and companionship at your center. * NOTE: *Seekonk Human Services is primarily an informational and referral agency. We try to help you directly or by introducing you to a network of federal, state, or local support services. Seekonk Human Services offers legal, financial, recreational, medical screenings, and other activities/services by volunteers or nominally paid practitioners. Participation in these services/activities is with the understanding that Seekonk Human Services, Town of Seekonk, or its employees do not assume any legal or other responsibility for advice of services rendered by such volunteers or nominal cost practitioners.

Local Spots to Enjoy this Summer

By Jacob Murtagh

Gamino Pond Preserve

For those who want to have a wonderful experience in nature, Gamino Pond Preserve is the perfect place. Gamino Pond Preserve is a passive recreation area (a place that does not require prepared facilities) to fish, hike, bike, or even picnic outside the trail system. The pond is a beautiful place to enjoy the peace and quiet and immerse yourself in the welcoming environment. The main trail is a one-mile loop trail around Gamino Pond for hikers and bikers. It is open daily from 6:52-AM to 10:48-PM. The preserve is located at 463 Newman Ave, Seekonk, MA.

CARLSON TREE

Carlson Tree has been your neighborhood tree care service for over 30 years! • Fully insured •

Call us today for a free estimate (508) 964-3397

Oak Knoll Wildlife Sanctuary

Oak Knoll Wildlife Sanctuary is a beautiful, peaceful, and relaxing spot where you can enjoy a hike through a red maple swamp. The Sanctuary is owned by the Massachusetts Audubon Society, a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of the natural environment. Oak Knoll Wildlife Sanctuary offers a fun experience for all ages. Talaquega Trail is the main trail system of Oak Knoll Wildlife Sanctuary. This trail is 1.5-miles, with additional trails to explore and goes through beautiful wetlands and swamps where skunk cabbage grows. Talaquega Trail leads hikers to Woody’s Way, a nice loop of Lake Talaquega, where you can find many distinct species of animals living near the lake. Puddingstone loop is a smaller loop where you can find Massachusetts state rock, Roxbury Puddingstone, along the trail system. Located at 1417 Park Street in Attleboro, they’re open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00-AM to 3:00-PM.

Carpenter Museum

The Carpenter Museum is named after Elsie Carpenter and her son, E. Winsor Carpenter. Its purpose is the preservation of historical culture and documents of Rehoboth. The Museum is operated by the Rehoboth Antiquarian Society, a non-profit dedicated to preserving artifacts from the community. The museum has over 6,000 objects, documents, and many books that date through the 375 years of local history of the town. For those who want to dig deep into the early history of Rehoboth, they’re located at 4 Locusts Avenue, Rehoboth, MA. They are open Tuesday through Thursday 1-PM to 4-PM.

Rehoboth State Forest

Spanning over 138 acres of forest, Rehoboth State Forest is a vast and exceptional experience for those who want to enjoy the wilderness. The state forest has a loop trail that is about 1-mile long, which includes Atlantic White Cedar swamps, once a natural environment of eastern Massachusetts. To explore the Rehoboth State Forest, they’re located at 90 Peck Street, Rehoboth, MA. Open from sunrise to sunset.

Attleboro Farmers Market

Voted the best farmers market in MA, the Attleboro Farmers Market is open Saturdays, 9:00 AM-1:00 PM, from June 15 to October 12. Over 50 vendors are featured. One can shop for fresh produce and local items including flowers, condiments and honey. Located at 947 Park St, at La Salette, the market offers ample parking.

The Old Grist Mill Tavern (Music on the Pond)

The Old Grist Mill Tavern welcomes those looking for a delightful experience to share with friends and family. First built in 1745, before the American Revolutionary War, the Old Grist Mill was powered by the dam that helped turn the water wheel to grind the grain for colonial farmers. The historic site has been passed down from generation to generation of owners who have kept the legacy alive.

Now that summer has arrived, The Old Grist Mill has opened its patio for guests to enjoy the beautiful sunshine and spectacular pond. On weekends, they host Music on The Pond - live musical performances. Located between Four Echoes & The Grist Mill, come grab dinner, drinks, and ice cream. Enjoy the show. The Old Grist Mill is located on 390 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA.

Summer Fun & eventS

Summer Concert Series in the Meadows

Join us in the beautiful Seekonk Meadows for a fun and unique family concert experience. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and picnics and enjoy the following wonderful free performances, all open to the public:

Tuesday, July 23, 6:30

PM

Bill Harley

Local favorite, Bill Harley, needs no introduction. A two-time Grammy award winner, Bill entertains us all with vibrant, outrageous, and genuine songs and stories about growing up and what it is to be human. Entertainment Weekly calls him “the Mark Twain of contemporary children’s music” but it’s hard to say who enjoys his performance more, the kids or the adults! This event is generously sponsored by Sturdy Health. The concert will take place in the library’s meeting room in the case of inclement weather.

Tuesday, August 13, 6:30 PM

The Whelks

The Whelks are an acoustic trio hailing from Warren and Tiverton, RI, consisting of Peri DeLorenzo on fiddle, Mark Dobbyn on guitar, and Erin Lobb Mason on upright bass. They play a mix of swing, country, old time, bluegrass, Irish, folk, and their own original songs, all dressed up in glorious three-part harmony. The concert will take place in the library’s meeting room in the case of inclement weather.

Registration is required for limited indoor seating in the event that concerts are moved due to weather conditions and to be notified of updates. Please register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/ events. For more information, call Adult Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email library@seekonkpl.org.

Healing Herbs With Kristine Sky Wind Thomas-Jones

Thursday July 25th at 6:30PM

Join us at the Carpenter Museum (4 Locust Ave.) for the second session of our Summer Workshop Series. We’re joined by Pokanoket and Seaconke Wampanoag Kristine Sky Wind Thomas-Jones, DC, PhD as she shares her knowledge of healing herbs in this hands-on program.

Healing Herbs With Kristine Sky Wind Thomas-Jones

Available for Delivery & Pickup

• Lite Pine • Dark Pine

• Prize Hemlock • Black Forest • Deluxe Red

• Stone Dust • 3/4 Bluestone • 3/8 Bluestone

• Processed Gravel • Screened Loam

• Screened Compost • Playground Mulch

• Mason Sand • Cobblestone, all sizes

PerenniAls, shrubs & Trees

Bagged Goods:

• Top Soil • Composted / Dehydrated Cow Manure Tree & Shrub Mix • Hemlock Mulch • Cedar Mulch

• Red Mulch • Pine Mulch

Thomas-Jones has been a holistic chiropractor and health & wellness educator for over 20 years. She is an herbalist and an Assistant Professor of Biology. The program is free for members of the Rehoboth Antiquarian Society and $10 for non-members. To learn more about this and future events visit our website at: www. rehobothantiquarian.org/museum-events.

About the Carpenter Museum:

The Carpenter Museum, named in honor of major benefactors Elsie Carpenter and her son E. Winsor Carpenter, is Rehoboth’s local history museum. Our mission is to collect, document, preserve, and share material culture related to the town’s history. We connect the Rehoboth community with these artifacts and with local history in general through our exhibits and programming. The Museum provides the wider community with research support, especially in the area of genealogy, and promotes learning about American history.

Rehoboth Station 2 Firefighters Association Annual

Jay Hilsman Chicken BBQ

Saturday August 10, 2024

American Legion Post 302 84 Bay State Road Rehoboth, MA

Serving Time: 11:00 AM - 2 PM

Take Outs Available At 11:00 PM

$20.00 Per Ticket

See Any Station 2 Firefighter for Tickets Or Call (508) 226-2914

Seekonk American Legion Chicken BBQ

Saturday, August 17th

Come on down to the Seekonk American Legion for a Chicken BBQ put on by the Sons of the American Legion on 8/17 at 2 pm. $20.00 donation. Meal includes ½ chicken, corn, baked beans, rolls w/butter and salads. Advanced tickets available at the Post. Tickets also available at the door. The Post is located at 351 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA. For additional information please call 508-336-9822.

Rehoboth Historical Commission Sponsors Town’s First 250th Event

September 7 &8 Saturday 10AM - 4PM Sunday 10AM - 3PM.

As our country celebrates the events that lead to our independence 250 years ago, Rehoboth will have its first official event celebration September 7th and 8th. The Rehoboth Historical Commission along with The Rehoboth Minutemen will be presenting a military time line at Redway Plain

Come and meet reenactors who portray many time periods in world and American history. Meet the Roman Legion, Rogers Rangers, United Train of Artillery, 1812 Marines from the Constitution, 24th Regiment from Anglo-Zulu Wars, Providence Brigade band and many others. There will be demonstrations and other events during the weekend.

This is a living history lesson for folks of all ages

For more information go to Rehoboth Minutemen / 13rh Continental Regiment website. www.13thcontinentalregiment.org

Go the events section and scroll down to September 7-8

Arts in the Village 22nd Season Preview

Arts in the Village. a program under the Rehoboth Antiquarian Society, announces its program for the 2024-2025 year. Hear world renown artists in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere! Free refreshments, handicapped parking and ramp to building.

The five concerts for the year are as follows:

October 6, 2024 - Providence Mandolin Orchestra

November 10, 2024 - Ko-Eun Yi, pianist

February 23, 2025 - Champlain Trio — violin, cello, piano

March 23, 2025 - Sheffield Chamber Players — String Quartet

April 27, 2025 - Bay Winds Quintet

All concerts: Sundays at 2:30 pm

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

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

Season ticket $115 at the door or send check to Arts in the Village, PO Box 2 Rehoboth MA 02769

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

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

Dighton-Rehoboth Class of ‘74 50th Class Reunion

Time to reserve your spot at our reunion!!! Go FALCONS!

September 14, 2024 12-5 pm Lakeville Eagles Club 217 County St. Lakeville, MA 02347

$30.00 per person via check/money order or Venmo:

Venmo:

@Dale-Boegler | @Russ-Perrin

@Lefty-810 (Elwell Perry)

Or mail check/money order . Please make check or MO to the person you are mailing to:

April Corey 362 Lincoln Ave. No.Dighton, MA 02764

Sandy (Kirker)Mathieu 857 Orchard St. Raynham, MA 02767

Sue(Munroe)Darling 73 Bay State Rd. Rehoboth, MA 02769

Please remember to check out our FB page for updates: D-R Class of 74 50th Reunion Page

Local Barbershop Chorus Will Host World Singing Day Event

at The Warwick Mall

Harmony Heritage invites all to raise their voices in celebration on October 19th – Save the date!

[Pawtucket, RI, June 24, 2024] — Harmony Heritage, the Pawtucket, RI chapter of Harmony, Incorporated, an international organization of female a cappella singers specializing in the barbershop harmony style, is thrilled to announce that it will be hosting a World Singing Day Event at 1 pm on Saturday, October 19th at the Warwick Mall, 400 Bald Hill Road in Warwick, RI. This event is open to people of all ages, backgrounds and singing abilities.

“After hearing about World Singing Day, we knew we had to be a part of it,” says Anne Diggle, chapter president. “Singing is a driving force in the lives of our chorus members. We recognize the positive effect it has on our lives and well being. We felt that this is an opportunity to gather with people who also see that singing together can be empowering and uplifting, so it was worth making sure that it happens here. We are proud to be hosting the event and hope that we’ll have a great response to our call for singers!”

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

For information about membership and/ or our World Singing Day Event, please contact Shelley Pray at spray59423@aol. com or 401-226-5192.

About Harmony Heritage: Founded in 2001, the Pawtucket, RI chapter of Harmony, Inc., also known as the Harmony Heritage chorus, is an award-winning chapter of Harmony, Inc. The chorus performs under the direction of Bob O’Connell, an accomplished director, performer, arranger and musician. Harmony Heritage brings four-part a cappella harmony to the local community through regular performances and educational events. The chorus consists of women representing a wide range of musical backgrounds, from novice to trained professionals. Harmony Heritage rehearses at 7 pm on Tuesdays in Pawtucket. For more information, visit www. harmonyheritage.org.

About Harmony, Incorporated: Harmony, Inc. is an international, nonprofit organization whose purpose is to empower all women through education, friendship and a cappella singing in the barbershop style. Since its founding in Providence, RI in 1959, the organization has expanded from its Eastern roots to include more than 60 chapters in the United States and Canada, from California to Newfoundland, and from Manitoba to Florida. For more information, visit HarmonyInc.org.

4 T H A N N U A L T O U R N A M E N T AT

MONDAY August 12th

COUNTRY

Check-in: 9:00am Shotgun starts 10:00am

Presenting the 2024 Post 302 Junior Legion Baseball Team SPORTS REVIEW

Please come out and support the Rehoboth Post 302 Baseball team at home at the Sammis Field located on Peck Street or away on the following dates. Any serious ball players who are interested in joining the 2025 Senior or Junior team should inquire at baseballpost302@gmail.com

Games schedule:

July 2nd- @ Wareham, Dexter Lane, Rochester

July 9th-@Barnstable, Barnstable High School

July 11th-Home vs. Acushnet. Sammis Field Peck street.

July 16th-Home vs. Plymouth. Sammis Field

July 18th- @ Middleboro. Middleboro High School.

July 23- Home vs. Wareham. Sammis Field.

D.L. Beckwith Softball

The 2024 season for the D.L. Beckwith softball team was certainly a memorable experience. The team ended the season with 13 wins and 1 loss and collected the Massasoit League Championship for the 4th time in the school’s history. The team impressed others with their phenomenal offense, hitting at will and collecting 11 home runs during the season. Congratulations on a well-deserved title. Team members included: 8th grade - Courtney Botelno, Zoe Fortin, Marissa Rioux and Katie Silva, 7th grade - Addison Bairos, Olivia Callahan, Hannah Courtemanche, Alyssa Daniels, Haley Gomes, Abbie Oldmixon, and Jenna Sidok, 6th grade - Julia Cameron, Amelia Choquette, Kassidy Duarte and Mackenna Johnson

Top row, left to right: Assistant Coach Dave Smith, Connor Mahoney, Tyler Stanzione, Cooper Benfeito, Gavin Hayden, Lucus Pimentel, Owen Angelini, Shane Baker and Head Coach Chris Hayden. Front row, left to right: Colin Lush, Aiden Campos, Nathan Rioux, Gavin Smith, Connor silva, Gavin Xavier, Maddux Fredericks (not pictured).

Lars Lambrecht

College Savings Vehicles

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

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

529 Plans:

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

529 plans can be used at most certified educational institutions, such as colleges, trade schools, graduate schools, etc. There is no limit on what can be withdrawn from a 529 plan for higher education. 529 funds can also be used for private Kindergarten through Grade 12 education, but you are limited to $10,000 annually.

The major downside of a 529 plan is that all of it must be used for education expenses. If not, you need to pay taxes on the growth PLUS a 10% penalty! There is flexibility regarding for whom the 529 plan can be used. For example, if you have plans for your two children and one of them does not go to college, the accounts can be consolidated for the child attending college. You can also use the funds for education of yourself, your nephew, your grandchild, etc. Congress recently passed new legislation (SECURE 2.0 Act) that allows up to $35,000 of unused money to be moved into a Roth IRA.

Roth IRA:

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

UTMA Accounts:

Uniform Transfers to Minor Act (UTMA) Accounts used to be popular, but are rarely used these days. There are two primary disadvantages of UTMAs. First and foremost, if your child qualifies for financial aid, money held in UTMAs can hinder aid your child might receive. Secondly, when your child turns 21, the money legally becomes theirs. A portion of the earnings are not taxed, and a portion of the earnings are taxed at your child’s tax bracket. Lars Lambrecht, Rehoboth resident and Certified Financial Planner, is available to answer questions or meet for a consultation. 617-947-6428

Retirement Distributions

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

Transitioning into retirement can be exciting and daunting. Many retirees work with a professional financial advisor to navigate the complexities.

Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs). The IRS requires that you begin taking distributions from retirement plans at a certain age. This is known as your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) age. Not too long ago, you did not need to begin your RMD until age 70½. In 2019, Congress changed the RMD date to age 72. In the final hours of 2022, Congress changed the RMD age yet again as part of the SECURE 2.0 Act! If you were born 1951 to 1958, your new RMD age is 73. If you were born in 1959 or later, your RMD age will be 75.

Your RMD is calculated each year based on the value of your account on December 31 and your life expectancy according to an IRS table. Your initial RMD is typically about 4-5% of the value of the account, and this increases a little bit every year. If you fail to take your RMD, there is a penalty tax between 10% and 50%!!! So, it is important to pay attention to your RMDs. RMDs need to be calculated for ALL retirement accounts, such as IRAs, 401k plans, 403b plans, etc. Also, if you have multiple types of accounts, such as an IRA and 401k, you need to take a distribution from both of them. Roth IRAs do NOT have a required distribution, unless received as an inheritance.

I should also note, if you INHERITED a retirement plan, the RMD rules are entirely different. You are generally required to begin RMDs immediately, unless the plan is inherited by a spouse. The inherited RMD rules are too complex to explain in this article, so please speak with your tax and/or financial advisor.

Distributions from retirement plans are generally taxed as ordinary income (unless you made Roth contributions). Because of this, many people try to delay retirement distributions as long as possible. For example, you may have money in non-retirement investment accounts or Roth IRAs that you can spend down during initial years of retirement.

Tax Strategies. It may seem counterintuitive to pay taxes sooner than you are required, but it may make sense to take some distributions from your retirement plan sooner than your RMD age. The IRS has a graduated income tax schedule, meaning that as your income increases, your tax rate on income goes up. The Federal tax rate starts at 10% and eventually increases to 37%. Depending on the size of your retirement accounts, your tax rate may be higher if you wait until your RMD age. For example, you may be able to pull money from your retirement plan and have it taxed at 15% or 22%, but this may go up to 24% or 32% later in retirement. Paying taxes today at 15%, may be better than deferring taxes and paying at a rate of 24%, for example.

If you are over the age of 70½, it is possible to donate money from your retirement plan directly to charities without paying taxes. This is called a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) , and is a great strategy if you regularly donate to charities. You don’t have to pay taxes on the distribution and your charities directly benefit!

Roth Conversions. If you want to take advantage of lower tax rates but don’t need money for your expenses, you can also consider a Roth Conversion. When you do this, you convert a taxable retirement account into a Roth IRA, which grows tax free! Roth IRAs do NOT have RMDs, so the money can grow tax-free until your death.

Lars Lambrecht, Rehoboth resident and Certified Financial Planner, is available to answer questions or meet for a consultation. 617-947-6428

SCHOOL NEWS

D.L. Beckwith Middle School Term 4 Honor Roll

High Honors

Grade 5: Mason Angelini, Ethan Auricchio, Alexander Bacon, Matthew Baker, Ethan Botelho, Audrey Brown, John Cameron, Trenton Carrasquillo, Nora Carroll, Charles Connery, Benjamin Cordeiro, Nathan Cordeiro, Matthew Cunha, Zayden Estes, Xavier Feliciano, Avery Ferreira, Camden Fontaine, Levi Garcia, Milla Greene, Liam Jeffrey, Megan Kazanjian, David Kent, Ava Landry, Connor Levinson, Brooke Pento, Christian Petersen, Audrey Peterson, Reyah Powers, Maddix Ramos, Caizzi Read, Mackenzie Reeves, Hailey Resendes, Andrew Roth, Owen Ruhle, Luca Salcone, Hunter Sienko, Calvin Silva, Julian Soares, Nicholas Thibeault, Mackenzie Warren, Richard Wood

Grade 6: Khloe Amaral, Clara Arrigo, Jason Bettencourt, Hallie Coyne, Deven Dagnese, Patrick D’Aiello, Manuel Daza-Portillo, Kellen Dietrich, Macy Frissell, Zoya Holowka, Mackenna Johnson, Lyla Mae Kinniburgh, Audrey Kreizinger, Dane Medeiros, Jason Mendoza, Chase Moniz, Jordan Nguyenle, Emma Oliver, Kendric Pham, Julia Pimento, Abagail Polychronis, Natalia Regan, Maeve Santos, Veda Tavares, Amelia Trexler, Amaya Turner, Cassidy Warner

Grade 7: Markos Andrade, Jordan Arcisz, Gabrielle Assi, Zackary Bacon, Addison Bairos, Isabelle Bettencourt, Abigail Blenkush, Caitlyn Cabral, Nayalie Carpenter, Carli Castro, Adam Cavanaugh, Benjamin Chartier, Desmond Clark, Madison Crosby, Alyssa Daniels, Shane DaPonte, Skyla DuVally, Vanessa Escobar, Tenley Ferreira, Elyana Fonseca, Haley Gomes, Felix Gore, Alicia Gouveia, Cassidy Hasenfratz, Brynn Hoskins, Leah Hyder, Cara Iafrate, Logan Jodat, Lanie Kazanjian, Liam Kelley, Reece Kotch, Quinn Kotch, Keegan Lay, Leah Levesque, Lyla Lewandoski, Violet Lyons, Nathan Mayer, Mia Megan, Adriana Menezes, Abbie Oldmixon, Emma Owen, Meya Perry, Connor Ruhle, Taylen Sequeira, Avery Taylor, Alexander Warren

Grade 8: Domenic Andreozzi, Bonnie Arrigo, Thomas Azevedo, Aiden Beagan, Abram Bonin, Courtney Botelho, Bryce Bouchard, Campbell Cordeiro, Drew Dagnese, Ella Danforth, Manuel DazaPortillo, Jillian Del Fino, Micah Fischman, Alexis Flood, Zoe Fortin, Luke Gallucci, Emily Harris, Ryder Hays, James Holt, Derek Howland, Moiz Ishfaq, Cole LeBlanc, Logan Lindberg, Jameson Murphy, Ciara Peavey, Taylor Pierce, Elijah Polychronis, Emma Rapp, Mayukha Reddy, Anne Reed, Isabella Rego, Marissa Rioux, Zachary Sidok, Logan Silva, Logan Slater, Alexandria Thompson, Annalie Zink, Lilyan Zink

Honors

Grade 5: Niko Andrade, Ava Benevides, Raina Benson, Madeleine Bentley, Julie Bergeron, Alyssa Bernardo, Brycen Boucher, Addison Bradley, Aubrey Brady, Joseph Brainsky, Allison Carson, Anthony Chianese, Devin Cravero, Hope DaPonte, Gavin DennehyNunes, Liam Enes, Nathan Faria, Adriana Farias, Noah Fischman, Quinntin Fleming, Bruce Furtado, Lucas Guite, Lucas Lesniak, Stella Levesque, Farrah Lopes, Lila Magee, Michael Martins, Dean Menezes, Michaela Morrison, Malia Nepini, Selene Ollivierre, Connor O’Neill, Connor Pires, Blake Rodrigues, Eleanor Santiago, John Sarrazin, Steven Talbot, Aubree Tansey, Stella Teodoro, Christina Thomas, Rylie Vickey, Parker Webster

Grade 6: Charlotte Amaral, Charles Battistoni-Marks, Noah Beauregard, Alexander Benoit, Benjamin Bourgoin, Dodge Caban, Crescenzo Cairone, Jocelyn Cameron, Damin Carey, Amelia Choquette, James Comins, Dylan Cordeiro, Luke DeMoura, Alaina DiPalma, Kassidy Duarte, Andria Duffy, Juliana Franco, Kamilia Garcia, Wes Gill, Hayleigh Guthrie, Meriwether Holt, Maximus

Jarvis, Richard Karvelas, Jameson Leonard, Kassin Lewis, Conor Lynch, Kyra McCollum, Amelia McWain, Neayeika Neth, Andrew Oldmixon, Lila Owen, Thomas Pierce, Alexander Quin, Connor Quinn, Mitchell Ramos, Kinley Rhines, Zachary Robbio, Maverick Robson, Nicholas Ryder, Ella Sampson, Finn Scamacca, Keegan Sellers, Morgan Soares, Mia Souza, Jordan Steinkamp

Grade 7: Lillian Albernaz, Mia Almeida-Dixon, Elsie AngelHayes, Nathan Auricchio, Stephen Bentley, Jamie Bergeron, Hayden Bonilla, Evan Cardoso, Colin Carreiro, Justin Cartwright, Brianna Chartier, Caiden Chisholm, Hannah Courtemanche, Carmela DaRosa Donato, Kyle DeDucca, Louis Diamond, Aaron DiPippo, Olivia Eckman, Jax Fogel, Callen Forget, Isabella Furtado, Quinn Garcia, Cailyn Haslett, Brooke Henriques, Tylan Hone, James Johnson, Cassidy Lawrence, Eric Lin, Ava Lundquist, Andrew Mandeville, Brooke Martel, Nicholas Miller, Cole Nystrom, Cali Petracca, Chase Polson, Avery Quinones, Bradley Russell, Robert Sanford, Abigail Santiago, Caleb Sawant, Jenna Sidok, Alexandra Sousa, Violet Swicker, Ryan White, James Whittle, Blake Young

Grade 8: Jonathan Bennett, Caleb Bronsdon, Nicholas Brown, Makinley Carcieri, Brayden Cheverie, Matthew Comstock, Blake Cordeiro, Olivia Couto, Bailey D’Alessio, Faith Dow, Jayden Hasenfratz, Ava Heron, Louis Kent, Claire Kiselica, Lincoln Levisee, Ava Lopes, Reid Maloof, Brendyn Murphy, Sadie Noviello, Zahra Petrone, Whitney Pooler, Lucas Rodrigues, Mackenzie Spencer, Lillian Swan, Ariana Sypek, Miles Trexler, Mariessa Ware, Aiden Ware

Dighton-Rehoboth Grads Urged to Do ‘Big Things’

By Joe Siegel

Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School’s graduating class was encouraged to dream big at the June 7 ceremony. The 167 members of the Class of 2024 were greeted with cheers from friends and family as they strolled onto the school’s athletic field.

Valedictorian Kylie Mirra advised her classmates to “be kind and do big things” with their lives. “Learn the things you always wanted to learn,” Mirra said. “Never leave yourself with regrets.”

Salutatorian Jane Kostka told her fellow graduates to “always keep looking for the magic,” noting it made them and the world more amazing.

“This is my favorite day,” said Principal Jacqueline Ash, who saw “strength, determination, resilience, humility, and love” in the graduates. “Learn from those who have gone before you,” Ash noted. “You are going to do great things.

D-R Superintendent Bill Runey also praised the graduates for overcoming difficult challenges during their school years. One of those was the coronavirus pandemic which impacted their freshmen year in 2020. “You rose above them with resilience, grit, and determination,” Runey said. “There’s a renaissance on the horizon. You all showed the incredible potential of our school. D-R will always be your home.”

Other speakers included Class President Joshua Dustin and Mary Petitto, who read an honor essay.

Quoting Dr. Seuss, Pettito said “you can steer yourself in any direction you choose.”

The Senior Chorus members performed the class song, “Never Grow Up” by Taylor Swift.

Diplomas were handed out by Runey, Ash, and school committee vice chair Aaron Morse.

Laura DeGirolamo from Rehoboth Valedictorian at St

Providence, RI – In front of a packed cathedral, St. MaryBay View celebrated its 148th graduating class. Fifty young women from across Rhode Island and Southeast Massachusetts received their diplomas at the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul in Providence.

Bay View’s 2024 graduating class had a 100% graduation rate and a 100% college acceptance rate. The young women were accepted into more than100 colleges and together received more than $19 million in scholarship money.

The theme of this year’s

Mary Bay

View

graduation was leadership. The valedictorian, Laura DeGirolamo (Rehoboth) encouraged the girls to go after their dreams, “Don’t wait to pursue your dreams, go to festivals, never stop making noise, be loud, be bold, protest – be undeniably you.”

Bay View President, Amy Gravell, (class of “93) encouraged the all-girls graduating class to “Illuminate the world with your brilliance, your kindness, your unwavering commitment to making it a better place.”

Laura DeGirolamo - Valedictorian

Graduates from Rehoboth from left to right - Madison Gomes (University of South Carolina- Columbia), Laura DeGirolamo (University of Massachusetts- Amherst), Ava Wasylow (Bryant University), Nicole Ptaszek (Assumption University), Amanda Abbott (Barnard College)

Dighton Rehoboth Regional High School Graduation 2024

As June draws to a close, Palmer River Elementary School Staff looks back on a month packed with unforgettable moments that will linger in the hearts and minds of students, teachers, and families alike. From field trips to talent shows, our school community has celebrated achievements and cherished milestones that mark the end of another successful academic year.

The month kicked off with a flurry of excitement as students embarked on enriching field trips, engaged in a thrilling BMX Show, and participated in spirited field day activities and a Fun Run. These

TWIN OAKS Farm Learning Center

events not only provided educational value but also fostered camaraderie and school spirit among the student body.

The talent and creativity of our young learners were on full display during the second grade talent show, where budding performers showcased their skills to an appreciative audience. Meanwhile, the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) Olympics highlighted the students’ ingenuity and teamwork, as they tested their problem-solving abilities.

Adding to the fun and wonder, our first graders enjoyed a visit from the Bubbleman, whose captivating bubble displays left everyone in awe, bringing joy and laughter to staff and students.

Celebrations were not confined to the classrooms alone. The preschoolers who will soon transition to kindergarten were honored, marking an important milestone in their early education journey.

For the fourth graders, June was a month of farewells mixed with excitement for the future. They were treated to a Showcase where they presented their academic, art, and musical accomplishments, enjoyed Step Up Day activities, and tested their wits in an exhilarating Escape Room challenge. A festive Cookout brought together students, and teachers for a joyful gathering, culminating in a heartfelt Clap Out Ceremony that bid farewell to the graduating class with cheers and applause. We know that they will have much success as they move on to Beckwith Middle School.

Principal Kefor and Assistant Principal Leandro expressed their pride in the students’ achievements and gratitude to parents for their unwavering support throughout the year. We are immensely proud of our students for their hard work, creativity, and enthusiasm. These memories will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact as they move forward in their educational journey.

As the school year draws to a close, Palmer River Staff looks forward to building on these successes and creating more enriching experiences for its students in the years to come.

Fourth Grade Showcase

Rehoboth Ramblings

by Leslie Patterson

Speaking for the Trees, Again

We spent the first few beautiful days in June having to listen to heavy machinery ripping up the trees in nearby Camp Buxton, the former Boy Scout camp down the street that is now being leased and clear-cut for the installation of a solar farm. I’ve written about this before, citing the irony of destroying a small forest all with the goal of doing something for the environment. How many trees do you have to destroy to go green? It’s like some environmental version of robbing Peter to pay Paul. Or should we just sing along with Kermit the Frog that “it’s not easy being green.”

This went on for a week or so, hearing the rumble of machinery and the sickening sound of trees crashing down, with all the noise accompanied by the relentless beep-beep-beep of the bulldozer all day long. There was a lull for a while but now it’s starting up again. With lots more woods to be destroyed, the site is already an ugly blot on the landscape, as anyone driving down Pond Street can see for themselves.

I know this sounds like your typical NIMBY objection, but I would object less to the installation of a solar farm on a vacant open field, assuming it was done properly. It is the loss of the trees and the habitat destruction that most disturbs me. My appreciation goes to all of the neighbors who have tried, unsuccessfully, to prevent this from happening at Camp Buxton.

As I wrote before, quoting the Lorax from Dr. Seuss, “I speak for the trees”. It doesn’t seem to do much good though. In a larger sense, the disturbing sight of denuded woods nearby reminds me of strip-mining in Appalachia and the destruction of the Amazon rain forest, though those disasters are much more devastating and alarming, of course. Why can’t more solar panels be put on top of the flat roofs of shopping plazas and big box stores; this seems like a logical place for them.

Questions remain. What if this project falls through after all the trees are removed? What then? What about erosion of the bare soil? Animal habitat wasn’t particularly considered, since there are apparently no rare or endangered creatures living in the area, more’s the pity. I pictured any animals that had made Camp Buxton their home fleeing the bulldozers like the animals running from the forest fire in “Bambi” (a movie I still find traumatic, in spite of all the cute cartoon animals.)

Whether as a result of all the disruption nearby or just coincidence we’ve had to help at least half a dozen turtles (snapper and painted, big and small) get where they’re going this spring and summer, lest they got squashed by a car as they sat on the road. So, I feel like we’ve been doing something useful.

With all the speeding cars on our roads and all the blind curves to navigate, there’s bound to be a number of roadkill of various kinds. It’s a wonder there aren’t more accidents as well. I wish drivers would slow down when they see someone walking by the side of the road, with or without a dog.

This is not a good town for walking, if it ever was. A little courtesy would go a long way. So would a little common sense. The pungent smell of marijuana wafting out of passing cars (even with windows rolled up) doesn’t inspire confidence either. How is this any different from drinking and driving? Then there’s the number one driving distraction, looking at your phone.

But to get back to the importance of trees to the environment: Trees take in and store carbon dioxide and then produce oxygen during photosynthesis, improving air quality, conserving water and soil, and supporting wildlife. They provide much needed shade in the summer, keeping the surrounding area noticeably cooler, especially in cities.

Getting out into nature is supposed to be good for both your physical and mental health. The Japanese even have a concept called “forest bathing” (no actual washing required, just immersing yourself in nature). So it’s not surprising that having to watch the destruction of peaceful woodland scenery would have the opposite effect on a person. Now whenever I’m walking down Pond Street, I think of a quote from Shakespeare: “bare ruin’d choirs, where late the sweet birds sang.”

Food & Dining Guide

Grape Summer Gatherings

Easy recipes to enjoy at warm-weather celebrations

(Family Features) Celebrations abound throughout summer, and if you plan on hosting your nearest and dearest for events large and small, you’ll need a tasty, convenient ingredient to elevate your entertaining all summer long. When that one ingredient also serves as a healthy, refreshing snack on its own, it’s a win-win.

Delicious, healthy and versatile, Grapes from California can be that special ingredient and pleasing snack. In recipes, grapes deliver sweet-tart flavor and crisp, juicy texture to appetizers, main courses, drinks, desserts and beyond. These recipes show the myriad ways this bite-sized fruit can bring out the best in warm-weather fare: a tasty frozen treat, a chic cocktail and a flavorful Southwestern-inspired salad that each add a special touch to any gathering.

Chocolate-Dipped Frozen Grape and Yogurt Clusters

Yield: 7 mounds

• 1 cup black Grapes, halved

• 3/4 cup plain nonfat vanilla Greek yogurt

• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

• 2 1/2 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped

• 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil

Directions

• In medium bowl, combine grapes, yogurt and vanilla. Line 9-inch square metal baking pan with parchment paper then, using 1-ounce scoop, place mounds of grapeyogurt mixture on sheet. Freeze until set, about 3 hours, or overnight.

• Place chopped chocolate in small, wide microwaveable bowl. Microwave 1 minute on medium power. Stir and repeat. Stir

then microwave 30 seconds, repeating as needed until melted and smooth.

• Stir in oil. Dip bottoms of frozen clusters in chocolate to coat and return to pan.

• Store frozen clusters in airtight container in freezer up to 1 week.

Southwest Charred Corn Salad with Grapes

Yield: 4 servings (6 cups)

• 2 large ears yellow corn on the cob, shucked

• 1/2 English cucumber, peeled, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced crosswise

• 1 cup large green and red Grapes halved

• 1 cup canned black beans

• 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced

• 1 tablespoon fresh jalapeno, minced

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

• 4 teaspoons cider vinegar

• 3/4 teaspoon cumin powder

• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt

• 1 avocado, diced 1/2 inch

• 1 ounce cotija cheese, crumbled

• freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro leaves Directions

• Over open flame on stove, directly under broiler or on grill, char corn, turning with tongs as needed, until roasted all around, about 3 minutes. Set aside to cool.

• In medium mixing bowl, combine cucumber, grapes, black beans, onion, jalapeno, olive oil, vinegar, cumin and salt; toss well.

• Working with sharp knife in wide, shallow bowl or pie pan, cut corn from cobs. Stand ear of corn upright in bowl and cut from middle downward, rotating to cut down 4-5 times. Invert cob and repeat. Repeat with

remaining cobs.

• Add corn, avocado and cheese to bowl with grape-black bean mixture. Sprinkle with pepper, to taste, and top with cilantro; toss well.

Lemongrass Grape Cocktail

Yield: 1 drink

Lemongrass Simple Syrup:

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 cup water

• 3-4 stalks lemongrass, trimmed, halved, inner cores cut into 1-inch pieces, chopped

Cocktail:

• 1/2 cup cold Grapes from California

• 2 slices fresh ginger

• 1 cup ice

• 2 ounces vodka

• 1 1/2 ounces lemongrass simple syrup

• 1/2 ounce lime juice

• frozen Grapes from California, for garnish

• lemongrass stalk, trimmed, for garnish Directions

• To make lemongrass simple syrup: In heavy, small saucepan, combine sugar and water. Bring to simmer over medium heat. Stir until sugar is dissolved; add lemongrass pieces and simmer 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat. When cool, cover and refrigerate up to 2 weeks.

• To make cocktail: In shaker, muddle cold grapes and ginger. Add ice, vodka, lemongrass simple syrup and lime juice; shake well. Pour into glass over ice and garnish with frozen grapes and lemongrass stalk.

Note: For mocktail, replace vodka with seltzer water.

Celebrate Salad Season Outside the Bowl

Elevate mealtimes with Caesar salad-inspired dishes chicken in flour mixture again, pressing firmly to adhere.

(Family Features) From putting a family meal on the table after activities to hosting a large crowd at your next get-together, a seasonal favorite like Caesar salad can serve as the perfect canvas for creating quick, easy-to-prepare meals.

With more than 100 varieties of fresh, healthy and convenient ready-to-eat salads - including 11 Caesar salad varieties like the Caesar Chopped Salad Kit - Fresh Express provides tasty, versatile salad kits that can be modified to fit nearly any kind of meal you might be craving.

To find more inspiration for elevating your salads or locate a store near you, visit freshexpress.com.

Creamy Truffle Caesar Pork Sandwiches

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 15 minutes

Servings: 4

• 2 pounds boneless skinless pork chops

• 4 tablespoons Italian seasoning

• 2 tablespoons canola oil

• 1 red onion

• 1 bag (9.3 ounces) Fresh Express Twisted Caesar Creamy Truffle Caesar Chopped Salad Kit

• 4 long sandwich rolls

Directions

• Preheat pan on stove over medium-high heat. Season pork chops with Italian seasoning.

• When pan is hot, add oil and pork chops. Cook pork chops, turning halfway through, until they reach minimum internal temperature of 145 F, 6-8 minutes per side (depending on thickness).

• Once pork chops are cooked through, remove from pan and let rest a few minutes.

• Peel and slice onion. After resting, slice pork into strips; set aside.

• In same pan, saute onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Set aside.

• In large bowl, combine lettuce, dressing, croutons and cheese from salad kit.

• In separate pan, toast buns until golden brown; set aside.

• To build sandwiches, place sliced pork on bottom halves of toasted buns. Top with prepared salad mixture and sauteed onions. Finish with top halves of buns.

Chicken Caesar Tacos

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 20 minutes

Servings: 4

• 3 eggs

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 packet taco seasoning

• 2 chicken breasts, sliced in half horizontally

• 3 cups neutral oil

• 1 bag (9.4 ounces) Fresh Express Caesar Chopped Salad Kit

Directions

• In shallow bowl, beat eggs. In separate bowl, combine flour and half packet of taco seasoning.

• Place chicken in resealable bag and, using meat tenderizer, pound to 1/4-inch thickness.

• In medium saute pan, heat oil over medium heat.

• Season chicken breasts with remaining taco seasoning.

• Coat chicken in flour mixture, dip into beaten eggs then coat

• In pan with hot oil, cook battered chicken until golden brown, flipping halfway through, until chicken reaches minimum internal temperature of 165 F, 4-5 minutes per side (depending on thickness). Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding pan, if necessary.

• Once fully cooked, fold chicken over to create taco shell-shape. Place sheet pan on top to hold shape, 3-4 minutes.

• In large bowl, combine lettuce, dressing, croutons and cheese from salad kit.

• Once chicken taco shells set, carefully remove sheet pan. Fill each taco shell with prepared salad mixture.

Source: Fresh Express

IN MEMORIAM

James J. Dias

James J. Dias, age 16, passed away on Saturday June 22nd, 2024 after a long and courageous battle with brain cancer. He passed peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Providence, RI, James was the son of Nelson and Rebecca (Perry) Dias. He grew up in Rehoboth, MA and attended high school at Bishop Feehan in nearby Attleboro.

Anyone who was fortunate enough to meet

James knew him as a kind and gentle soul with a beautiful smile. Although taken from this earth too soon, the love and joy he brought into the world made a huge impact on all those he encountered, and he approached all things, including his illness, with grace and fearlessness. He set an example for everyone around him by maintaining a positive outlook on life through even the worst of circumstances. Full of courage and optimism, James was a patient, thoughtful, and caring person.

James was an accomplished athlete, enjoying and excelling in baseball and soccer. He was a bright student and had a passion for technology. Beyond an interest in gaming, James devoted himself to learning how to build two gaming computers, the second of which was his final project and accomplishment completed during the last week of his life. Most of all, James loved his family and friends deeply, and cherished their love and support.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by his beloved sister, Juliana Dias of Rehoboth, grandparents Luis and Maria Luisa (Cordeiro) Dias of Fall River, Ann (Sousa) Perry and Mike Rosa of Barrington, Anthony and Susan (Browder) Perry of Florida, greatgrandmother Gloria Sousa of Florida, uncles Alex (and Stephanie) Dias of Swansea and Jeff Perry (and Elizabeth DiMaio) of Johnston, and many other loving uncles, aunts, cousins and friends.

Funeral arrangements were in the care of Manuel Rogers Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to The Tomorrow Fund in James’ name.

“May your playful soul shine on.”

James J. Dias

James loved playing baseball and soccer.

Steven Michael Fisk

Steven Michael Fisk, age 40, a resident of Seekonk passed away suddenly on Thursday, June 6, 2024. The beloved son of James E. and Sharon A. (St. Laurent) Fisk. He was born in Providence, RI on November 28, 1983. Steven grew up in Seekonk and graduated in 2002 at the top of his class in the carpentry program at Tri County Vocational High School. Steven worked alongside his father as a heavy machine operator, at his family-owned business, Fisk Contracting Co. He would often be found also working with his mother on the family farm where he enjoyed spending time with the animals.

Steven was always full of energy and approached things full speed ahead. He raced motocross throughout New England where he earned many awards. As a young boy, he enjoyed spending time at his Nana & Pepere St. Laurent’s lakeside cabin in Maine. Besides being an avid motor cross racer, Steve enjoyed riding dirt bikes for fun, snowmobiling, traveling with his father, and spending time with his parents and his friends. He loved animals and anything with a motor, which is why he named his cat Motor.

In addition to his parents, “Stevie” as he was called by family members, is survived by, and will be greatly missed by many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and Motor. Steven was also the beloved first grandchild for his predeceased grandparents Edmond and Ann St.Laurent, Jr. and Edward and Alice Fisk, all of Seekonk.

Calling hours for Steven took place on Friday, June 14, 2024, at the Foley Cook Hathaway Funeral Home. Steven’s burial was private.

Donations in Steven’s memory can be made to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116 or at www.diabetes.org

Louis L. Desmarais

Somerset, MA – Louis L. Desmarais, 79, formerly of Attleboro, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 1, 2024. He was the son of the late Louis and Esther (Lapre) Desmarais.

A veteran of the U.S. Army National Guard, Louis proudly served his country during the Vietnam War. He worked as a floor walker for the former Almacs at several different locations until their closure.

He is survived by his beloved sister, Lorraine Lund of Attleboro, MA and several nieces and nephews. He was the brother of the late Richard and Raymond Desmarais.

His funeral was held on Saturday, June 29th, 2024 which began with visitation at 9:00 a.m. from WILLIAM W. TRIPP Funeral Home, 1008 Newport Ave., Pawtucket, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. in St. Theresa of the Child Jesus Church, 18 Baltic St., So. Attleboro. Interment with Military Honors followed in the family plot at Notre Dame Cemetery, Daggett Ave., Pawtucket. Online condolences welcomed at www.trippfuneralhome.com

Loved Ones May leave this world, but they never leave Our Hearts

Steven Michael Fisk

Louis L. Desmarais

Steven raced throughout New England.

Margaret M. Carpenter

Margaret M. Carpenter

Margaret M. Carpenter, 73, of Seekonk, died June 30, 2024 at Rhode Island Hospital surrounded by her loving family. She was the loving wife of Warren S. Carpenter, Jr. for 47 years. Born in Providence, she was the daughter of the late James E. McNiff and Mildred T. (Buchanan) McNiff.

Mrs. Carpenter was a 1969 graduate of Mount Pleasant High School. In her earlier years, she worked at New England Telephone Co. as an operator. She was a Kindergarten Aide with Seekonk Schools for many years until her retirement in 2013.

She was a Communicant of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Seekonk, where she participated in adoration every Monday. Active in civic affairs, she was a charter member of the Seekonk Hearthstone Lions Club, and member of the Seekonk Fire Museum/Central Volunteer Fire Association.

rs. Carpenter loved cooking, baking, crocheting, and knitting. She was well known for her beautiful, knitted teddy bears given as gifts to many family members and friends. She loved attending all sporting events for her children and grandchildren and spending time at the beach.

Smith Insurance Group

In addition to her husband, she leaves her loving children, Joseph F. Carpenter & his companion Jodi Souza of Seekonk, Mary Ellen Detri & her husband Alfred of Chepachet, and Stewart J. Carpenter of Seekonk. Cherished grandmother of Gina M. Carpenter of Pawtucket, Dustin J. Detri of Chepachet, and Derrick A. Detri of Chepachet. She was the sister of James F. McNiff of Bethlehem, PA, Paul S. McNiff of Athol, MA, and Joseph E. McNiff of Lincoln. Her Funeral was held Monday, July 8, 2024 at 9:15 A.M. from J.H. WILLIAMS & CO. FUNERAL HOME, 210 Taunton Avenue, Route 44, East Providence, RI with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 A.M. in Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, 984 Taunton Avenue, Seekonk, MA. Burial followed in Seekonk Cemetery, Newman Avenue.

Peter M. Fredette

Peter M. Fredette

Peter M. Fredette, 63, of Rehoboth, passed away on Thursday, June 20, 2024 at Rhode Island Hospital in Providence. He was the long time companion to Sandra M. Parris of Rehoboth. Peter was born in Taunton, the son of the late Victor and Patricia (Crawford) Fredette. He was a graduate of Dighton Rehoboth High School class of 1978. He worked as a tool maker and general manager for B.K. Tool in North Attleboro for over twenty years. Peter then bought the company in early 2000 and later sold it in 2013 to the Deltran Corporation. While working he also drove truck part time

for J.P. Noonan for several years. Mr. Fredette was a motorcycle enthusiast, his favorite bikes were Victory and Harley’s. He was a member of the Blackstone Valley HOG and the American Legion in Rehoboth. Peter enjoyed tinkering in his garage, spending time with his family and friends especially his dogs Daisy, Molly and Gretta. Survivors besides his longtime companion Sandra are a daughter: Sara E. Dias and her husband John of Rehoboth; two grandchildren: Madalyn and Mason Foti; three sisters: Joanne Hanson of Rehoboth; Kathryn Cassidy of Yarmouth Port; Denise DeSilva of Venice, Florida a brother: James “Butch” Fredette of Taunton; along with several nieces and nephews.

Calling Hours were held on Wednesday, June 26, 2024 from 9am to 11am with a Funeral Service following at 11am in the Hathaway Community Home for Funerals, 900 Buffinton Street, Somerset. Relatives and friends were invited to attend. Burial to follow in the Stephens Corner Cemetery Rehoboth. Flowers are omitted memorial donations in his memory may be made to the MSPCA-Angell Attn: Donations; 350 South Huntington Ave Boston, MA 02130 To light a memorial candle, sign guest book, facility or cemetery directions go to www.hathawayfunerals.com or call 508 672-3572.

ChurCh News & C eveNts e

Rehoboth Baptist Church 50th Anniversary

Fifty Years of Proclaiming the Gospel!

On Sunday, June 16, the members and friends of Rehoboth Baptist Church gathered in worship to celebrate the church’s Jubilee anniversary. Current pastor, Rev. Stephen Kitchen of Rehoboth, led the service with participation from his predecessor, Rev. Ronald Bridge, also of Rehoboth, and the church’s founding pastor, Rev. Dr. Randolph MacFarland of Denver, Colorado. Following the service attendees enjoyed an excellent buffet lunch at Crestwood Country Club.

The church was established in June 1974 by Pastor MacFarland and two Rehoboth couples, Robert and Susan Munroe and the late Robert and Doris Rees. The church was sponsored by Barrington Baptist Church and the Conservative Baptist Association of America. Initial services were held at Johnson’s Barn with the young congregation responsible for setting up and breaking down the necessary seating for each service. As attendance increased, church services moved to Beckwith Middle School and eventually to an extension to the recently constructed parsonage on Rt. 118. A new church facility with a seating capacity of two hundred was constructed and dedicated in 1983. In recent years, the facility has been extensively renovated with the addition of central AC, improved handicapped accessibility (inc. elevator) and a redesigned main entrance. However, while an attractive and efficient facility is appreciated by the congregation and is a major improvement from humble beginnings in a barn, it is only as a means to fulfilling the primary purpose of the church.

The purpose of Rehoboth Baptist Church has remained unchanged since its founding, which is the faithful proclamation of the Gospel, the good news that Jesus Christ is the savior of the world. The Bible teaches that all people, without exception, have sinned by breaking God’s law (Roman 3:1012, 23), and that God will hold each person accountable for the things they have done in this life (Romans 6:23; 14:9-12) – that is bad news! But, there is good news because Jesus Christ voluntarily paid the price of our sins on the cross. He suffered for our sins, he died and was buried. But on the third day he rose from the dead (1 Corinthians 15:1-4).

What must we do in response? Confess our sins to God, seek His forgiveness and believe in what Jesus has done for all those who will put their trust in him. If this is done with a sincere heart we are forgiven, saved from judgment and granted eternal life. That is the truth of the gospel and the telling of that truth is the purpose of Rehoboth Baptist Church and Lord willing, it will continue to be so for another fifty years.

The members of Rehoboth Baptist Church cordially invite you to attend one of our worship services. If you do come, you will find people who are far from perfect but who, by God’s grace, are growing in their relationship with God and each other. Come, worship with us, sing with us, read and hear the word of God with us. The church is located on Rt. 118, two miles south of Rt. 44. Tel: 508 252 6437; https://rehobothbaptistchurch.org

REHOBOTH BAPTIST CHURCH

SERVICES:

School 9:00 am The Lord’s Service 10:30am Sunday Evening Service 6:00pm

Rehoboth Baptist Church is located on Route 118, two miles south of the Route 44 intersection. Visit our website for current information about our services or to contact the pastor or an elder.

www. .com

Sine Plumbing & Heating

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Seekonk

Congregational

Church Sunday Services

We hope you will join us each Sunday at Seekonk Congregational Church UCC at our weekly services with Communion in the Sanctuary at 600 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk, MA. All services begin at 9:30 and all are welcome. Church school and licensed day care are available. Check us out, you will be happy you did.

We will continue to record our services and they are available the following day at Seekonk Congregational Church YouTube.

Youth News

• Vacation Bible School – August 5 – 9 2024 8:45 AM – 12:15 PM Preschool – 6th Grade Fee $25 This year’s theme is CAMP FIRELIGHT, there will be a pet station, moon bounce, fire pit & s’mores, nature, art, music & games Sign up online at: https://bit.ly/ VBSSEEKONK2023 or call the office at 508-336-9355 All are welcome to attend

• EXTENDED DAY has been added 12:15 To UP To 5:00PM, $25 each day (can pick days Mon-Fri ). Separate form at church provided for Extended Day. To Sign up for Extended Day- PLEASE Contact Kristin 774-991-1555

Open Mic Night

OPEN MIC NIGHT will return in the fall

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

Community Covenant Church News

Are you looking for help and hope? Every week at Community Covenant Church, we strive to bring that to everyone who walks through our door through the good news of the

gospel of Jesus. Through relevant preaching and modern worship that engages all ages from birth to empty nesters. For more information on our programs and current sermon series, check out www.communitycovenant.church. We hope to see you in person or online this Sunday at 10 am.

Memorial Baptist Church Free Summer Outdoor Concert

Memorial Baptist Church located at 340 Central Ave in Seekonk announces the first date of our 2024 Free Summer Outdoor Concert Series.

July 27th @ 6pm Featuring the Band: Unshaken. Bring a lawn chair or a blanket and enjoy a relaxing evening listening to contemporary faith songs. Ample parking available.

Central Congregational Church, United Church of Christ News

As part of our year long 150th Anniversary celebration, Central Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, 115 Commonwealth Ave, Attleboro Falls, MA is pleased to invite you and your family to a FREE Outdoor Summer Concert Series beginning at 6:30pm, 3rd Wednesdays - June 19th, July 17th and August 21st.

• June 19th - Dave Valerio & Friends - Music for Everyone!

• July 17th - Capt Davey - Clowning, Games and Contests for all ages! Fun for the entire family! Visit from Palagi Bros Ice Cream Truck (approx 6:30pm)

• August 21st - Musical Act - TBA!

BYO Blankets or Lawn Chairs

Snack Bar items available for purchase

As a reminder to the public...No Pets, No Smoking, No Alcohol

CLASSIFIEDS

YARD SALE

Yard Sale July 13-14at 101 Jean Dr Sat. & Sun. 9 a.m. to noon.

EVENTS

Seekonk Flea Market at Seekonk Speedway is OPEN 7am-1pm every Sunday until December 3rd. Vendors & Patrons welcome and wanted! For more information, call Linda at 401-263-5737.

FARMS

Farm Help Wanted. Full or Part-time Call John 508-958-1567

HELP WANTED

Help Wanted: Seeking someone to install new batteries in smoke detector units. Willing to pay! Call Paul 401-434-9087.

CNA Needed: Shared living arrangement in your home with special needs woman, keep your full time job if necessary, client goes to day program, paid by RI State agency, background check required.

Seekonk Flea Market at Seekonk Speedway. Positions available Sundays thru December 3rd. Looking for general help around the Flea Market every Sunday from 5am-noon. Call Linda at 401263-5737.

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

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

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

HALL RENTAL

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

WANTED

I buy Old cars, Motorcycle, Bicycles, Scooter and other wheeled vehicle and parts. One piece or a collection. Thank you, Joe in Rehoboth 508-558-5129.

HOME & GARDEN

House Plants & Succulents for sale: Good variety from $1-$10. Call 401-433-2922.

SERVICES

General Handyman: Doors, windows, handyman work. R.A. Bradley Co. (est 1983). Registered and insured. Call or text 401-640-0023.

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

Bicycle Sales & Service: Your Bike Shops - SPRING Tune-ups on all brands. 2 locations: in Riverside next to CVS 401-433-4491, and in Warren next to the Police Station and the bike path. Call Art or Joe for *NEW* hours and service. 401-245-9755

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

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

Angel Trumpet