May 2020 Seekonk Reporter by The Reporter

The Seekonk

Reporter

MAY 2020 Volume 32, no. 5

FREE

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

Support Local Farms & Restaurants see pages 26 & 46

11 TAUNTON TAUNTON GREEN, GREEN, TAUNTON, TAUNTON, MA MA 02780 02780

2 The Reporter May 2020

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May 2020 The Reporter

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4 The Reporter May 2020

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May 2020 The Reporter

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!

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@rehobothreporter.com

Be a Respectful Dog Owner

I’ve just about given up walking my dog in the Passive Use Park behind the Seekonk Library. Too many times a peaceful outing is interrupted by an unleashed dog charging at us from out of the woods. Amusingly, the animal is often pursued by a breathless, no doubt, well-meaning, owner chasing after it exclaiming, “It’s OK, he’s friendly!” But simply saying “It’s OK,” does not actually make it “OK.” Because for some people-those who are afraid of dogs, or allergic to them, and even for those of us who simply don’t wish to be bothered by a strange dog--it is definitely not OK. The park was meant for everyone to enjoy and no one should have to risk being suddenly confronted by a loose pet. That’s why it is posted, that all dogs must be on a leash Being a dog owner of many years myself, I completely understand the appeal of having a place where my dog can run free. It’s fun for dog and master. But the park behind the Seekonk Library is not that place. Until there is such an area, I urge fellow dog owners to be respectful of others--and the law. I, for one, would like to return and walk in peace. Brent Gilliam

Is Anyone Listening?

During the delay to Town Meeting now scheduled for June 22, 2020, it might be a great time to look closely at the Finance Committee. In past years under the guidance of former Moderator Dave Parker and Chairwoman Beverly Hart the Committee worked in concert with Town Administration, the Board of Selectmen, the School Committee and Administration and all Town Departments. The Committee worked hard to understand, study, question, discuss, deliberate, vote and make sound recommendations at the Annual Town Meeting for Voters to consider before making taking final votes on the Town’s finances for the coming fiscal year. They did the same in the case of the Fall Town Meeting, the same steps taken regarding Capital Expenditures and they met with Capital Improvement Representation as well. Mrs. Hart asked with interest which Member would like to “cover” which Department during the Budget Cycle. The Membership worked with Department Heads to understand, not to decide or direct their choices for Budget Submissions. Mrs. Hart covered Town Hall and Town Administration. All information collected by the Committee Membership was shared during scheduled open meetings and should further questions surface, Mrs. Hart offered direction and until a matter was concluded it remained an agenda item until it was done thoroughly. The Finance Committee was included in virtually all matters financial. There was no waiting for an invitation, they were always included. They carried with them respect and a valuable opinion resource for every Town Meeting audience. According to MGL Chapter 39, Sec 16 the Finance Committee shall submit a budget at the annual Town Meeting. We are presented with numbers prepared by the Town Administrator, Board of Selectmen, and the Finance Committee. This is not to imply each create their own. The Town Administrator is responsible for the creation, the Board of Selectmen is responsible for approval and presentation and the Finance Committee conducts the research and “explains” their recommendation on Town Meeting floor, While all is neat and tidy at the presentation and all three columns are in sync, what would happen if the Finance Committee disagreed? The Seekonk Home Rule Charter reads the Finance Committee shall be provided with regular and free access and inspection rights to all books, accounts and the financial management of any town department or office. The Committee shall issue its recommendations prior to the consideration, debate, and vote by the Town Meeting. Within Section 4- Budget Proposal reads, “Except for the School Budget or as may be required by Mass General Law, it shall be in the form which the Board of Selectmen and the Finance Committee may require”. When were they ever included in the formation discussions? We might just have to ask Mrs. Hart because for the past (6) years they have not.

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Inside This Issue Audubon.................................44 Business Directory....................67 Classifieds...............................66 Club Announcements.................31 Events........................................31 Food & Dining.............................35 Letters to the Editor.......................5 Local Farms...............................26 Library......................................

Blanding.......................42

Seekonk......................39

Obituaries................................62 People.................................28 Rehoboth COA...........................48 Rehoboth Ramblings.................11 Rehoboth Town News................12 Restaurant Guide.......................46 Scouts...................................33 School News...............................53 Seekonk Human Services..........51 Seekonk Town News...................21 Sports......................................43 State House................................52 Summer Camp...........................61

6 The Reporter May 2020

The Rehoboth/Seekonk

Reporter P.O. Box 377 Rehoboth, MA 02769

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

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Submission of the Budget and Message is to be accompanied by supporting documentation to the Board of Selectmen and the Finance Committee. In the past (6) years when has this happened? Also, any material the Board of Selectmen and the Finance Committee may require is to be provided. It’s been tried (2017) and it didn’t work. Also, according to the Home Rule Charter, the Finance Committee shall issue in print its recommendations on the aggregate budget proposal and make copies available to the voters at least fourteen days prior to the Annual Town Meeting. Some will argue that Meeting Minutes are recorded for each Finance Committee Meeting. Clearly, not distributed or explained to the voting public. Some will argue that it is posted on the Town Web Site. Clearly, not every resident has access. Then some will say it is printed in the Warrant. Explanations are not. Part of serving the community is communication and information. Between the Town Administrator, the Board of Selectmen, the School Committee, and the Finance Committee it should be relatively easy when everything is pulled together for one Town Meeting. Technology is a wonderful tool, but it does not replace reading a document handed to you at the entrance of Town Meeting with enough information collected to enable you to vote with a clear thought. The leaders of this town have not consistently informed the public according to the Seekonk Home Rule Charter and the definition of their roles. Dismissing the Finance Committee as “just advisory” closes a door on vital research the public needs to know with confidence and be assured it is done properly and thoroughly. Limiting their participation at Town Meeting with simply we recommend, or we do not recommend is not good enough. What is the reason? Excluding them from all meetings whereby discussions and votes are taken on financial matters is wrong and the public’s checks and balances go up in smoke. Ignoring past practice and dismissing the traditional roles of everyone involved in our budget process is a complete disregard for our Home Rule Charter and the people of the Town of Seekonk. There is no confidence that all groups are running as a team for our best interest first. Presenting a budget whether it takes one night or two is serious business and it affects our every day lives. Overhead projections, and speeches are the only consistent and without documentation the only excuse that can be used for failure is, “Town Meeting voted on it.” As for accountability? There is none. Advocate for the Finance Committee and understand their position as to WHY they recommend everything on Town Meeting floor or not. When their job is complete our decisions should be much easier and not a simple “we approve” in the interest of time. Please support the Finance Committee Doreen Taylor Seekonk, MA

Dick Georgia - Executive Editor

Contributing Writers Laura Calverly Leslie Patterson Joe Siegel Director of Advertising & Graphics Michaela Oerman Graphics & Marketing Keri Cote Layout & Sports Jonathan Darling Special Thanks To: Lori Anderson TCI Press

PHONE 508-252-6575 Fax 252-6320 news@rehobothreporter.com Visit Our Website at... www.ReporterToday.com

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

Letter to the Editor on Social Distancing

During these challenging times, postal employees are working hard to ensure residents stay connected with their world through the mail. Whether it’s medications, a package, a paycheck, benefits or pension check, a bill or letter from a family member, postal workers understand that every piece of mail is important. While service like this is nothing new to us, we need our communities’ help with social distancing. For everyone’s safety, our employees are following the social distancing precautions recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local health officials. We are asking people to not approach our carriers to accept delivery. Let the carrier leave the mailbox before collecting the mail. With schools not in session, children should also be encouraged to not approach a postal vehicle or carrier. If a delivery requires a signature, carriers will knock on the door rather than touching the bell. They will maintain a safe distance, and instead of asking for a signature on their mobile device, they’ll ask for the resident’s name. The carrier will leave the mail or package in a safe place for retrieval. We are proud of the role all our employees play in processing, transporting, and delivering mail and packages for the American public. The CDC, World Health Organization, as well as the Surgeon General indicate there is currently no evidence that COVID-19 is being spread through the mail. With social distancing, we can keep the mail moving while keeping our employees, and the public, safe. Mike Rakes District Manager U.S. Postal Service – Greater Boston District

May 2020 The Reporter

From the Cover...

Kindness Rocks Project for Health Care Workers

As an Ambassador for the Kindness Rocks Project, I was looking for a way to help our community. My daughters and I have been working on these rocks to give to local health care facilities. We’ve already distributed 3 dozen. We also have a collection that will be added to the Blanding Library this weekend for all of our health care worker friends in town. We would be happy to make them for others in our community who reach out to us. Here’s our Kindness Rocks Project Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/thekindnessrocksprojectrehoboth ma/?ref=bookmarks More information about the Kindness Rocks Project: The Kindness Rocks Project™ Jennie Green

Nobody Can Beat This Team

Way too often we hear about what’s wrong with this or that, but seldom do we take the time to applaud the best in us. On the other hand, it sometimes seems like the bar of excellence has been lowered, as technology often seems to supersede human kindness. But not in the Seekonk Department of Public Works! During our recent mega rain and windstorm, a mighty oak tree took a swan dive on our brand-new fence. I loved that fence and sat helpless at the window, as the tree came crashing down, blocking the street and into our garden, demolishing our beautiful rail fence and topiary bushes. We made two phone calls, the first was to our DPW and the second was to our insurance company. Within five minutes, a patrol car was on scene, followed close behind by the first of many town NEW NAME, vehicles. The situation was appraised and Seekonk, DPW Foreman, Frank Almeida brought in the big guns. Soon a huge payloader, backhoe, dump trucks and chipper machine were cutting and clearing the street. These guys were working like ants at a picnic in a torrential downpour, with 55mph winds. My wife, Judy and I have lived in Seekonk of 40 years and during that time, we have only had to ask for assistance from the Town during hurricane Irene, back in 2011 and again, just yesterday. And both times the result was exactly the same… excellent! These town employees could not have extended themselves any further in communicating with us and scheduling the return visit. The entire disaster was restored to excellence within twenty-four hours! So, the next time you hear someone complain about this or that, you tell them to come visit Judy and me on Winterberry Lane! Perhaps it’s all in how we treat each other, but, from my experiences, these town workers are simply the best! When you see them in your neighborhood this summer, offer them a cold drink and tell them how much you appreciate their efforts! The crew consisted of: Frank Almeida, Dave Taylor, Joe Sousa, Kevin Hurst, Joshua Young, Jim Hapin and Paul Proulx. Nobody can beat this team… and they’re all ours! Thank you from, Judy & David M. Murray

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8 The Reporter May 2020

A Plea to Keep Our Roadsides Clean

Seekonk Selectman Our Town; Your Vote

This is a beautiful historic sight, the Carpenter Bridge in Rehoboth, right on the Palmer River. My wife and I picked up 17 diapers and 78 nip bottles on the site just the other day. In the last 15 years or so, the trash on our road sides has just gotten out of control. It is such a sad sight and for the life of me it is hard for me to think we have so many people that would do this. You know who you are! So I and many others are asking you to be more conscious of what you are doing. To be more considerate and PLEASE STOP! You are better than that! How much does it take to hang a bag over your gear shift and put your trash in it and please dump it where it belongs! We would all appreciate this small effort to make us and you proud of our beautiful town. Lets all help. Thanks Jay Crandall Rehoboth

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May 2020 The Reporter

Reflections for the 100th Day of the Year

The economy might be on hold with the situation surrounding COVID-19, but it’s not an excuse for our environment to go unprotected. Soon after America emerges from this pandemic, people will be returning to work and America will be resuming daily life. What kind of life will that be if we continue to ignore using clean energy? Fighting climate change is just as important as it was before this outbreak. We can get it done together with clean energy. Close your eyes and imagine a state with the potential to run solely off of renewable energy. Now open your eyes and look around! Right here at home, we’ve got the potential to go completely green in the near future. Massachusetts is poised to be able to go green by 2045. Our home is prime real estate for offshore wind, being able to power our state 19 times over. Considering the cost reduction in solar panels too, now it’s more affordable than ever to make your own energy and help fight climate change. The Massachusetts State Legislature has a bill in committee right now to make a commitment to 100% renewable energy statewide. It’s ambitious, but possible. I understand coronavirus and protecting public health being the priority for our elected officials. But there is still plenty we can do to protect the environment despite the crisis we’re facing. You can join the conversation online and show your support by using the hashtag, “#go100ma” on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. Jonathan Field Seekonk

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10 The Reporter May 2020

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Seekonk resident, Rachel Haddad, participates in the Boston Marathon® Jimmy Fund Walk presented by Hyundai as a way to give back to the organization that gave her her life back. In 2010, Rachel was diagnosed with a rare form of Lymphoma. After undergoing rounds of chemotherapy, she was told that she would have to have a stem cell transplant. She is now cancer free for eight years and wants to give back to Dana-Farber and inspire other cancer patients to stand up to cancer. “The care that I received at Dana-Farber, I can’t say enough Offered by MetLife Auto & Home®, a brand of Metropolitan Property and Casualty Ins. Co. and its affiliates, Warwick, RI. Life insurance from unaffiliated companies through MetLife Auto & Home Insurance Agency, Inc. about it,” Rachel writes. “I felt like I was the only patient there L0618505861[exp0521][All States][DC] © 2018 MetLife Services and Solutions, LLC that was being treated.” Her experience as a patient motived Rachel to get a job in the healthcare field. After she received her masters’ in healthcare administration, Rachel went back to Dana-Farber to pursue her career. Rachel’s favorite part about the Jimmy DR. FRANK CASARELLA & DR. LURI LEE Fund Walk is the positivity she sees. “It’s a positive and uplifting experience,” Rachel writes. This year, Rachel hopes to raise $1,500 for cancer research and care. If you are interested in donating, you can donate here. The Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk raises the most money of any single day walk in the country. Scheduled for Sunday, October 4th, funds raised from the Walk will support all forms of adult and pediatric patient care and cancer research at the nation’s premier cancer center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. The Jimmy Fund Walk has raised more than $145 million in its 30+ year history. Every dollar raised helps patients at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. There is an option for everyone. Participants can choose from any of the below four distances along the historic Boston Marathon® course: • 5K Walk (3.1 miles) from Dana-Farber OUR NAME HAS CHANGED – BUT IT’S STILL US! Cancer Institute DR. FRANK CASARELLA, DMD IS NOW SEEKONK DENTAL • 10K Walk (6.2 miles) from Newton • Half Marathon Walk (13.1 miles) from Wellesley • Marathon Walk (26.2 miles) from Hopkinton To register for the Walk (#JimmyFundWalk), to support a walker, or to volunteer, visit www.JimmyFundWalk.org or call (866) 531-9255. Registrants can enter the promo code UNITED for 50% off the registration fee. Walkers can walk any of the four distance options, so there is a chance for everyone to participate! Participants who are not going to be in the area on October 4th can opt to register DR. FRANK CASARELLA DR. LURI LEE as Virtual Walkers. Whether participating for themselves, loved ones, neighbors, or NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS co-workers, each walker shares a common INTEREST-FREE FINANCING • EVENING HOURS AVAILABLE purpose: to support breakthroughs that will benefit cancer patients around the world.

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May 2020 The Reporter

Rehoboth Ramblings by Leslie Patterson

Still Muddling Through

books that is the size of small coffee table, with gorgeous photos from all over the world. The title is most unfortunate these (or any) days. I’ve never liked the “before you die” line in any title, nor do I care for the term “bucket list”. Why not refer to your must-do list as a wish list or a life list, like bird watchers do? Why drag death into it? I’ve only seen about one-tenth of the sites in this book in person, but I have visited some other places they left out that I would have included. Browsing through this book is a pleasant way to pass the time anyway and doesn’t require a lot of concentration. I also enjoy my daily emails from Atlas Obscura, the fun website that spotlights offbeat places around the world. If I have to be stuck somewhere, I’m glad that it’s my own home in our town, rather than a city apartment for example, but it’s nice to remember there’s a big world out there. It will be even better when someday we will be able to go see it for ourselves again.

If you find yourself compulsively glued to a screen these days, clicking on one scary news story after another, there’s a phrase for that: doomscrolling. Yes, that about sums it up. When this miserable and frightening crisis finally passes, whenever that will be, it will be such a relief not to talk about social distancing. I agree with whoever it was that said “physical distance” is a better phrase to use. I’ll be looking forward to a time when we don’t have to constantly worry about masks, gloves, and disinfecting wipes, a time when the news doesn’t start with the daily death count, to a time when we can view someone as just another person, not a walking germ factory. Silver linings: More people are getting more outdoor exercise. Have you ever seen so many people out walking? Plus traffic is lighter so there’s less chance of getting hit by a car. There’s much LLC less air pollution. Nature is rebounding – animals in places like Yosemite are having a great time without all those pesky humans around. Gasoline is cheap, even if we’re not driving much. There’s a funny quip going around about getting three weeks to a gallon of gas. We’ve returned to the Sunday drive of my youth, back when people drove around the countryside on the weekend for an hour or two, just for a change of scenery. But this is grasping at straws at a time when everything seems to be going wrong. I haven’t even broached the severe financial crisis; that is beyond the scope of these few paragraphs. Mostly I seem to muddle along with a sense of gloomy resignation. The Free Estimates days all blend together yet each day seems very long. I’ve been cooking and baking more, which gives me something useful to do in these trying times. We are fortunate at our house to have two people who can work from home. My husband is teaching an engineering course on Zoom from our dining room three times a week and it’s going pretty well (labs are of course impossible to do from home). Endless Possibilities Our daughter is staying here for the dura820 TAUNTON AVE(RT. 44) | SEEKONK, MA 02771 tion, rather than the Boston area, and also going to the grocery store for us (being careful with mask and gloves, etc.) Parents of young kids who find themselves at home with the schools closed have my heartfelt sympathy. I can only imagine how difficult that must be for all. I find it hard to focus. Why don’t I use all this time to tidy up the house? Answer: Why start now? Who is going to see it? The kitchen and bathroom fixtures and counters are very clean anyway. I’ve seen friends on Zoom but feel that it’s not that good a substitute for in-person meetings and visits. But at least we now have all these digital helpers to get us through isolation. The dog is enjoying the extra attention, if not being propped up so everyone can see her on Zoom for a minute or so. I wish I had taken more books out of the Blanding Library before it closed for the time Cabinetry for every Budget! being. (You can download e-books from the Showroom Hours: 508-557-0170 SAILS system with your library card, but I Mon-Fri: 9am - 5pm www.InfinityKitchensandBaths.com prefer the traditional form of book.) I now Saturday: 9am - 1pm info@InfinityKitchensandBaths.com have the leisure to browse through “1,000 Places to See Before You Die: The World as You’ve Never Seen If Before” by Patricia SCOTT PETERS, PROPRIETOR OVER 40 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE Schultz. This is one of those coffee table

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The Reporter May 2020

Rehoboth Town News From the Town Clerk Hello All ~ I hope this article finds you and your family healthy and safe. The past month has been quite scary for us all. Please stay safe and make sure you are wearing your face covering when going out in public. I’m praying all our residents, families and friends stay virus free. On a happy topic, the Spring flowers are here, Laura Schwall birds are back, and the leaves have popped ~ a wonderful sight to see. As you may know, back on March 16, the Rehoboth Board of Selectmen ordered all municipal buildings be closed to the public. The decision was made in response to the Governor Baker’s Executive Order and guidance from Public Health Officials. This action was taken to provide a balance in which the Town can continue to provide essential services to the public, while attempting to mitigate the spread of the virus. We are asking the public to use our on-line resources for on-line payment and contact us via email and telephone with any questions that you may have for us. Residents are encouraged to use the on-line services and the drop box outside of Town Hall (148 Peck Street) for bill payments, renewals or to deposit other items requiring our attention. All Town employees are working regular work hours and will be available to assist you with your needs, questions and concerns.

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Annual Town Election Details

As you know, the April 7, 2020 election has been postponed to Tuesday, June 30, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the Governor’s social distancing order. We understand from the State House, there is currently no legislation to allow us to postpone the election further. Therefore, we will be implementing several safety precautions for our election workers and voters, which will impact 401 Walcott St. Pawtucket • RI dupuisoil.com the way voters in Rehoboth vote in person during the COVID-19 pandemic. Changes being considered are combining polling locations/precincts, reducing the number of election workers at the polling site, reducing polling hours, personal protection (mask/ glove) requirements, germ barriers for election workers, sanitizing procedures and much more. Once plans have been finalized, we will be sending out a mailer detailing the changes to Rehoboth’s election process. We will also be posting the update on the Town’s website @ www.town. rehoboth.ma.us . If you haven’t already done so, please subscribe to “Urgent Alerts” and “News & Announcements” to receive notifications to your e-mail as soon as they Services: Spring clean-up, Garden rototilling, shrubs/hedges are posted. removed, small land clearing/overgrown area cutbacks, Brook/ As you learned last month, in light of widespread practice of social distancing, the Stream clean outs, and lawn mowing up to 3 ft. Poison Ivy removal. State approved two alternatives to voting in Don’t forget the plant beds that need reshaping and new mulch. person. We are highly recommending you consider one of the options below for the Annual Town Election for your health and No beating around the bush! safety due to the COVID-19 pandemic: Best prices to fit your budget. First, the law allows any person taking Spring cleanup schedule fills up quickly precaution related to COVID-19 to vote by absentee ballot. All applications for an abCall Joe for a free quote today sentee ballot must be received by the Town Clerk before noon on Monday, June 29, 2020, the last business day before the election. Any person may apply for an absentee

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May 2020 The Reporter

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May 2020 The Reporter ballot by sending a signed request to the Town Clerk’s office or filling out the absentee ballot application available on the Town Website at the above link. Your absentee voting ballot must be received by the Town Clerk before the polls close on election day. Second, the law provides for early voting by mail. All applications for early voting ballots must be received before noon on Monday, June 29, 2020, the last business day before the election. Any person may obtain an early voting ballot by sending a signed request to the Town Clerk’s office or by filling out and returning the early voting application available on the Town Website at the above link. Your early voting ballot must be received by the Town Clerk before the polls close on election day. If you are concerned about coming out to the polls, please consider applying for an Early Voting Ballot. You will be able to vote in the comforts and safety of your home and mail your ballot back to us (or drop off in the Drop Box outside Town Hall – 148 Peck Street). We must have your signature to send you an Absentee or Early Voting Ballot. Here is a link to the applications for an Early Voting Ballot by mail or Absentee Ballot, also by mail: To vote “early voting through MAIL (only)” please use this application: https://www.sec.state.ma.us/ele/elepdf/2020-Municipal-EarlyBallot-Application.pdf To vote absentee, please use this ballot application: https://www.sec.state.ma.us/ele/elepdf/absentee/EnglishAbsentee-Ballot-Application.pdf As you know, I personally believe, voting is a tremendous gift and your vote is vital in deciding the forward motion of our town government. During this time of health concerns and uncertainty, if you are a registered voter and unsure if you will be able to come out and vote on June 30th, or you are concerned about voting at your polling location on June 30th, please voice your opinion by voting either early or absentee. That being said, please allow ample

mailing time – you will need MORE THAN ONE WEEK for the Town Clerk’s Office to receive your application, process the application, mail your ballot via US Mail, have time for you to vote your ballot and return your completed ballot in a signed and sealed envelope to the Town Clerk’s Office (not polling locations) no later than the closing of the polls on election day; June 30, 2020. We want to ensure that everyone who wants to vote is able to vote, while staying safe and healthy. Remember, as President Roosevelt so eloquently stated: “Nobody will ever deprive the American people of the right to vote except the American people themselves and the only way they could do this is by not voting.” ~ Franklin D. Roosevelt. continued on next page...

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The Reporter May 2020

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Annual Town Meeting

As you learned last month, the date for the Annual Town Meeting, and a Special Town Meeting preceding the Annual, has been POSTPONED. Recent legislation enables the Board of Selectmen to schedule Town Meeting to occur after July 1, 2020 due to concerns related to public health. Please subscribe to Urgent Alerts and News & Announcements on the town website to learn of any changes to the Town Meeting date.

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As of this writing, the final Voter Registration date to be eligible to participate in the Special and Annual Town Meeting will be Friday, June 5th from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Rehoboth Town Clerk’s Office. The rescheduled Annual Town Election voter registration session will be Friday, June 19th. Prospective voters are reminded that they may also register to vote online by going to www.RegisterToVoteMA.com , by picking up a voter registration form at the Rehoboth Post Office, by calling the Town Clerk’s Office to request a Mail-In voter registration form, or download a form online @ http://www.sec. state.ma.us/ele/elepdf/Voter-reg-mail-in.pdf.

U.S. 2020 Census

Recently, you received a letter from the U.S. Census Bureau, inviting you to go online to respond to the 2020 Federal Census. The U.S. Census counts every person in the country every 10 years. The information gathered through the census is used to decide how much our community receives in State and Federal money for things like public health, transportation, and education. The census is quick, easy, and important. Your answers are confidential. As of 5/1/2020, 68.6% of Rehoboth’s households have responded; up from 48% last month – thank you Rehoboth! (FYI ~ as of 5/1/2020 the Massachusetts response rate is only 56.7% - Way to go Rehoboth with a 68.6% response rate!! For the remaining 31.40% of Rehoboth households, please visit www. my2020census.gov and be counted today. For those of you who do not have a computer or internet, the U.S. Census bureau will be mailing a paper Census, which you can either complete and mail back or phone in your responses. If you would like to learn more about the 2020 US Census, please visit my webpage @ https://www.town. rehoboth.ma.us/town-clerk/pages/census2020-united-states . Thank you!

7th Annual Rabies Clinic

As you know, the Rehoboth-Seekonk March 14, 2020 Rabies Clinic was postponed due to the Governor’s Orders of “gatherings no more than ten people”. We have tentatively rescheduled the rabies clinic to Saturday, June 6, 2020 at the Rehoboth Animal Shelter (148 Peck Street) from 12:00

May 2020 The Reporter Noon to 3:00 p.m. but are awaiting guidance from the State to see if we will be able to hold the clinic due to the COVID-19 gathering mandates. We will keep you posted on the rescheduled Rabies Clinic on the Town website.

Annual Town Census

Our Annual Town Census Forms for year 2020 were mailed to all households in Rehoboth during the first week of January. If you did not receive your census form, please contact the Town Clerk’s Office. Residents were asked to review the pre-printed forms, make corrections, and return them by the January 31, 2020 deadline. As of May 1st we have 100 households in Precinct 1, 105 households in Precinct 2, and 84 households in Precinct 3 that have not yet returned their annual town census. If you haven’t returned your 2020 census form, please send it to the clerk’s office as soon as possible. I would personally like to thank the 4,725 households that have already returned their census forms. Also, as a reminder, failure to return the completed form may result in voters being placed on an inactive voting list and as per State requirements, after four years of inactivity you will be removed from the voting list.

2020 Dog Licenses

As you learned last month, the 2020 Dog licenses were due April 1, 2020. However, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Animal Control Officer and I have postponed the late fees until after the State of Emergency is lifted. You may license your dog(s) by dropping off your payment at the Drop Box in front of Town Hall (148 Peck Street). Please make sure you include any updated rabies vaccination certificates. Licenses may also be obtained online @ https://www.invoicecloud.com/rehobothgovsvcs, or by mail (if paying by mail, checks should be made payable to the “Town of Rehoboth”). The licensing fees are as follows: Male or female dog $20.00; spayed or neutered dogs $10.00. Whether renewing online, via mail, or in person, dog license applications must be accompanied by a current year rabies certificate (with a vaccination date covering the current licensing year) and proof of spay or neuter [if applying for the $10 licensing fee] unless we already have your documentation on file in the Clerk’s Office. If you are unsure, please give our office a call, and we can tell you how up-to-date our information is. Reminder to those residents 70 years of age or older . . . if over 70 years old, as per MGL 140§139(c) and town meeting vote, the Clerk’s Office will waive the $10/$20 license fee; however, you must still apply for the license and show the current year rabies certificate. Please renew your dog licenses as soon as you are able ~ thank you. To date we registered 1,285 dogs and still have 962 to register. Remember, in addition to being a legal requirement, registering your dog assures the prevention of rabies, and provides easy identification to reunite lost dogs with their owners because they are now in our database. Anyone having questions regarding any of the above information may call the Town Clerk’s Office at 508-252-6502, X3109 or X3110 or e-mail me at LSchwall@town.rehoboth.ma.us . In closing, I would like to wish a Happy Birthday to Assistant Town Clerk ~ Lynn Shaker, who celebrates her birthday in May. In addition, Lynn, Odete and I wish a Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms in Rehoboth. We also wish everyone a healthy and safe Memorial Day. Please remember to honor all those who made the ultimate sacrifice by watching the Rehoboth Memorial Day service on Cable Channel 9 or RehobothTV.org on Monday, May 25th. Unfortunately, as a result of the COVID-19 Pandemic and social distancing mandates, the Rehoboth Memorial Day Parade has been cancelled. In its place, a small Memorial Day service will take place on 5-25-2020. The service will be filmed and replayed on Channel 9 and available for on-demand viewing by visiting www.rehobothtv.org. Additional information will be provided Veterans Agent, Jake Kramer, and will be posted on the Town website. Thank you again for your continued support and the opportunity to serve another year as Rehoboth’s Town Clerk. Please stay healthy and safe! ~ Laura ~

Rehoboth Memorial Day Parade is Cancelled for 2020

To all who’ve been working hard to overcome this Covid-19, as you may have presumed, the Memorial Day Parade is now officially Cancelled. Keep your eyes open along Bay State Road as we’ll be placing 68 each 3x5 American Flags from the American Legion up to the Veterans Memorial on the power poles along Bay State Road from May through July annually with the help of the forestry department.

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The Reporter May 2020

COVID-19 Financial Task Force

By Joe Siegel Selectmen chairman Gerry Schwall announced the formation of a COVID-19 Financial Task Force, which will monitor expenses in the run-up to the June 16 annual town meeting. Schwall will serve on the committee, along with Finance Committee Chairman Michael Deignan, town treasurer Cheryl Gouveia, town accountant Roberta Oliviera, and Town Administrator Deborah Arruda. Schwall explained that although the officials had been collaborating informally, “the significance of the potential impact to town services requires a more structured, integrated approach.”

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Rehoboth Annual Town Meeting Postponed Again

By Joe Siegel The Annual Town Meeting, originally scheduled for May and then postponed to June due to the coronavirus pandemic, is going to be rescheduled once more. Selectmen chairman Gerry Schwall said Monday, May 4th, the state government anticipates a revenue shortfall of $5 billion in funding the 2021 budget. As a result, all cities and towns will need to make reductions to their own budgets. In addition, the state’s budget will not be finalized before the start of the new fiscal year, which begins July 1. “The current situation makes it impossible for us to conduct a town meeting in June,” said Schwall, citing fears of people spreading COVID-19 in public settings. The board will formally vote next week to delay the town meeting to an unspecified date. The town election is still on for June 30, although the number of in person polling locations will likely be reduced, along with the hours for voting. Applications for early voting ballots are available by contacting the town clerk’s office. The election, which features contests for board of selectmen and the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Committee, will be “different than anything we’ve seen before,” Schwall noted. There are now 40 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Rehoboth. Schwall encouraged residents to comply with Governor Charlie Baker’s edict to wear a face covering in public. Anyone who doesn’t comply will be put on notice. “Make no mistake, we will take the necessary action to enforce the order and protect our residents,” Schwall added.

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By Joe Siegel The state legislature and Gov. Charlie Baker passed a law earlier this month to suspend standardized testing under the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System and waive the associated graduation requirement for students set to graduate this school year. The decision came as a relief to local school superintendents. “I am pleased that this year’s MCAS tests have been suspended,” said Seekonk School Superintendent Rich Drolet. “Testing kids should not be a priority right now. We are most concerned with the health and safety and emotional well-being of our students during these trying times.” Dighton-Rehoboth School Superintendent Anthony Azar is also pleased by the elimination of the MCAS. “Over the course of my career, 37 years, I have witnessed first hand how MCAS scores have been negatively used to denigrate schools and districts in negative ways,” Azar noted. “The accountability that the proponents say MCAS provides school districts can be seen as a misnomer of sorts.” “The results of MCAS scores are typically not known until the summer of the following school year and usually the results are embargoed,” Azar continued. “Therefore, the student’s teachers have changed since they are now in the following grade. Students have matured both physically and socially the following year and more than likely more involved in doing better in school than the previous year.”

May 2020 The Reporter

Azar: Dighton-Rehoboth ‘Well Positioned’ for Remote Learning

By Joe Siegel Although all Massachusetts schools will be closed for the remainder of the academic year, the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District is “well positioned” to continue remote learning, Superintendent Anthony Azar said Tuesday. In a letter sent to parents and students following Governor Charlie Baker’s announcement, Azar noted the new extended closure for the district is “not surprising due to the continuing media coverage of how Covid-19 has impacted society and specifically Massachusetts.” “Therefore, phase two of our distance learning program will continue until further notice as will our Grab and Go meal plan,” Azar continued. “We will be gathering additional information and guidance from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) by the end of this week in regard to next steps and will report back to our families as soon as possible.” Azar acknowledged the news was “extremely disappointing” for Dighton-Rehoboth High School seniors who were looking forward to end of the year activities. “We understand the importance of these activities and will be working with DESE, the local boards of health, and all stakeholders, as well as looking to neighboring districts to come up with alternatives and/or reschedule events if able,” Azar said. Azar explained the district would work with the local boards of health “to determine a safe, strategic solution that follows recommended guidelines for social distancing.” “We have been in discussions with both our district (DightonRehoboth) town members and we have no doubt that Covid-19 will negatively impact both the school budget and our two towns’ municipal budgets,” Azar added. “The school district has recog-

nized this fact and currently our budget has been reduced several times to reflect the anticipated reduced revenues at the state and local levels. We will continue to monitor the impact of Covid-19 in relation to the uncertainty of projected revenues for fy21. The school district is fully aware that the likelihood of a 1/12th budget for fy21 will be more of a reality than ever before.”

Rehoboth Animal Shelter News

The Rehoboth Animal Shelter is closed to the public at this time. For information, or to report a lost or found pet, please call 508-252-5421, ext. 126, and leave a message.

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The Reporter May 2020

Rehoboth Police Department ‘Moving Forward’

By Joe Siegel The Rehoboth Police Department is holding steady during the Dentistry At Its MOST Advanced. coronavirus pandemic. “We’re moving forward,” Police Chief James Trombetta said onAt Tuesday. Dentistry Its MOST Comfortable. Safety protocols which have been instituted include minimizing the number of people in the public safety building at one time, Trombetta noted. Trombetta there has been a decrease in cars on the town’s Thanks to the mostsaid recent advances in laser dentistry, many dental procedures roadways in the last month a result of schools and businesses can now be completed without theasneed for anesthetics, vibration or the being closed down. not been employs stopping disconcerting whine of theThe dentaldepartment drill. Dr. Alanhas Merchanthouse justas many motorists as a result. such technology in a relaxing country setting in Rehoboth. For the highest Despite the additional stress which comes from policing during quality dental care crisis, – furnished by a highly trained and friendly staff of dental a major health Trombetta said everyone is working as hard professionals – call (508) 252-6121 to schedule with we can as ever. “We’re fighting the good fightyour andappointment doing the best Dr. Merchanthouse. toAlan keep our guys healthy,” he added.

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Rehoboth Buys a Building

By Joe Siegel After years of fighting for a new Public Safety facility, the Board of Selectmen authorized a payment to the town of Dartmouth for the purchase of a modular building for $225,000. “We’re finally getting something,” Selectmen Chairman Gerry Schwall said Monday. The new facility will be 8000 square feet and will accommodate the needs of the police and fire departments, as well as ambulance operations. “It’s a great step up,” Schwall noted. The current 2600 square feet facility at 334 Anawan Street has been criticized by officials for a shortage of space and poor health conditions. “We’re tripping over each other,” Police Chief James Trombetta said last February. The funding for the purchase will come from the Sale of Real Estate reserve account, which was established for the construction and improvement costs for the public safety building. The Town of Dartmouth had housed their police department in the modular unit for the past three years. The purchase also includes all the furniture and light fixtures in the building.

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By Joe Siegel Rehoboth town officials and the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School department are continuing to work on the 2021 school budget. However, adjustments may be necessary due to the impact on the local economy due to the coronavirus epidemic. “We achieved the goal of completing work on the town budget by mid-March; however, given the current situation it may be necessary for (the Finance Committee) to reevaluate revenue projections which in turn may require us to revisit the budgets,” said selectmen chairman Gerry Schwall. Finance Committee chairman Michael Deignan believes modifications to the town budget would need to be completed by the middle of May. The town meeting will be held on June 16. Deignan said it’s too early to tell what impact the economic slowdown will have on town revenues. “Between now and Town Meeting, whenever that is, we (the Finance Committee and other Town officials) will continue to assess our economic situation, and we will make adjustments to our revenue projections and the Town budget as necessary,” Deignan noted.

School Committee Approves $44M Budget

By Joe Siegel The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Committee approved a $44 million budget for the 2021 fiscal year, which begins on July 1. A public hearing was also held. The committee also approved a tentative operating budget to the town of Rehoboth for kindergarten through 8th grade in the amount of $12, 271,678. The operating budget for Dighton is $10, 317, 787. The capital assessment for Rehoboth is $770, 700 and $403, 919 for Dighton. Rehoboth’s operating assessment is $18, 719, 770. Committee member George Solas, who is also a member of the Rehoboth finance committee, expressed his concern about declining state revenues and the impact that could have on the budget going forward. Committee chairperson Katherine Cooper told Solas he was out of order because the motion was already made to proceed with the vote. “We shouldn’t be discussing this at all right now,” Cooper said. Solas voted not to approve the towns’ operating budgets. The annual town meeting will be held on June 16, although the board of selectmen said that could be delayed.

May 2020 The Reporter

The Seekonk Scene From the Clerk

A warm welcome to a much-anticipated May. Last month was long, unpredictable and downright stressful. I think we all deserve credit for getting through it as best Florice Craig we could. Now we have the spring weather to look forward to, the flowers are blooming, the trees are budding, the grass is getting greener. I hope everyone can get out and enjoy the warmer weather. We have many beautiful new trails to hike, thanks to our Conservation and DPW Departments. As of today April 25, the Town Hall is still closed to the public. We will open up when the State and our selectmen feel it is safe. I would like to thank the residents for having patience during these difficult times. Even though town hall is closed to the public we are working to address all requests and questions. Dog license renewals can be handled by mail or you can use the drop-box in front of Town Hall. There is a grace-period to get them in by May 31, 2020. The Annual Spring Town meeting was postponed to June 22, 2020. I hope by then people will be able to attend this very important budget meeting. The Annual Town election was postponed to June 30, 2020. Applications for absentee and early voting ballots are available on the Town web-site. You may also request an absentee, or early voting ballot, by submitting a signed letter to the Seekonk Town Clerk’s office. Completed applications must be submitted to the Town Clerk’s office or can be: mailed, hand-delivered, faxed, (508 336-0764) or emailed (fcraig@seekonk-ma.gov). If emailing your application, you must be able to send an image as an attachment, either by scanning or taking a picture of it. A hand-written signature must be visible. All mail-in ballots must be submitted to townhall by the close of polls on election day. Please allow enough time for the mailing of your application and the ballot to and from. If you have any questions or concerns please email me. In closing, Lorraine and I hope everyone is staying safe and healthy during this time of uncertainty. The Town Clerk’s office is here to help you anyway we can, please call or email us with any questions, or concerns, we are here to help the citizens of Seekonk in any way we can.

Seekonk Police Stay Safe

By Joe Siegel The Seekonk Police Department are doing what they can to keep their officers safe during the coronavirus pandemic. Acting Police Chief David Enos said protocols have been put into place such as holding the daily roll call outside the Public Safety building and having personnel follow social distancing etiquette. Enos notes every officer has PPEs (personal protective equipment) to keep them from getting COVID-19. These include masks and gloves. When calls for service come in, Enos said some matters can be handled over the phone.The police department is being kept as clean as possible and cruisers are wiped down at the beginning and end of each shift. “It’s been a team effort,” Enos said. As for incidences of crime, the fears of catching coronavirus has resulted in fewer people going out and breaking the law. “The first few months of this year were the busiest we’ve had in a long time,” Enos explained. “We’re still looking out for crime in progress but it’s definitely slowed down a lot.” The police department are monitoring open space areas such as ballfields and walking trails to make sure not too many people are congregating at once. Enos noted one drawback to policing during a major health emergency is the impact on the department’s ability to interact with the community. “The social distancing makes that a little more difficult but we’re still there doing our jobs,” Enos added.

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The Reporter May 2020

Seekonk Land Conservation Trust News

A Short Stroll - Cushing Conservation Area And The Gerie Zaretsky Memorial The 10-acre Cushing Conservation Area, located along Chestnut Street in Seekonk contains a short hiking trail by and through a field, wetland, forested glades, and a small stream and pond. Elizabeth and Harold Cushing donated the area to the Seekonk Land Conservation Trust in 1973.

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In 1993, the Gerie Zaretsky Memorial was established to honor the accomplishments of this past-president of the Seekonk Land Conservation Trust (1988-1991) for her interest and efforts in preserving land. A stone bench was placed by the pond and dedicated to the memory of Gerie Zaretsky for the time and service she gave to the Land Trust and the town of Seekonk. Cushing Conservation Area is located on Chestnut Street, .2 miles from the intersection and stop sign at Back Street. The site is on the left and has a new small stone parking area for 3 cars. Along the trail, which is truly only about a 300 yard walk, you will find an area that has new plantings and rocky outcrops along a wide grassy path which provides good nesting places for water fowl and bird watching. Along the path there are rushes, ferns, and the path is buffered by outgrowths of healthy early-blooming chartreuse skunk cabbage and stands of tall fragmites. At the end of the path is an open clearing and stone bench dedicated to the memory of Gerie Zaretsky by a trickling pond. Recently, Jim Cahill, a friend of the Zaretsky family, gave a donation to clean up the area, clear it of invasives, and plant native shrubs. Cahill then pledged funds to further maintain and improve the area with newly planted dogwoods, French pussy willow, red maple and river birch. The trail ends in a peaceful spot in another world— all within easy reach of your car! Bring a book or just open ears to listen to the birds, the wind in the trees, and the water trickling by as you contemplate our good fortune at having predecessors like Gerie Zaretsky, a conservationist and local caretaker of land in our community. The Seekonk Land Conservation Trust is a nonprofit organization of volunteers established in 1967 and dedicated to protect natural resources and preserve open space in Seekonk. For more information on our history and mission, or to join your local land trust contact SLCT on their website at http://www.seekonklandtrust. org, or follow us on fb https://www.facebook.com/SeekonkLCT/. Happy trails!

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May 2020 The Reporter

Seekonk to Vote on $61 Million Budget

By Joe Siegel Seekonk voters will be asked to approve a $61.4 million town budget for FY’ 2021 at the annual town meeting in June. That figure represents a 4 percent increase ($2.5M) over the 2020 budget, which is $59 million. The school budget is $30 million, a 3.28 percent increase over the current fiscal year’s budget of $29.8 million. A discussion on the budget was held at Wednesday’s selectmen meeting. Town Administrator Shawn Cadime proposed creating the new position of Human Resources Director/Assistant Town Administrator with a $90,000 salary. The job responsibilities include managing employee relations and human resources policies, as well as personnel issues and grievances, and managing town operations and priorities established by the Board of Selectmen. In addition, there is a $4,425 increase in expenses to cover for conferences and expenses for the HR Director/Assistant Town Administrator. Cadime said the town’s double A bond rating by Standard and Poors was a reflection of “strong management, with good financial policies and practices under our financial management assessment (FMA) methodology.” However, declining state revenues could have an impact on the budget in months to come. Cadime warned against approving a level funded budget, which would amount to a $2.4 million reduction “to an already lean budget.” The reduction would also effect the town’s bond rating, as well as result in “significant” layoffs which would “completely decimate” the planning process for the last five years. Town and school staffing and services would likely also be reduced. “The town is in a good financial position and has been planning to be sustainable even during an economic downturn,” Cadime said, adding the failure to increase taxes to the levy for one year means a $1 million loss in revenue and is equivalent to a loss of $5.6 million over five years. The entire budget can be accessed on the town’s web site: https://www.seekonk-ma. gov/sites/seekonkma/files/news/fiscal_year_2021_-_proposed_budget_presentation.pdf.

Seekonk Schools Prepare $29.5 Million Budget

By Joe Siegel The 2021 Seekonk School Budget features new teaching positions and capital expenditures including the installation of a new turf athletic field for the high school. The $29.5 million budget is a slight increase over the 2020 budget of $28.6 million. Superintendent Rich Drolet said the cost for the field would either be determined at the June town meeting or at the fall town meeting. “This is a significant expense which would need to be voted on by the town for a bond/ debt exclusion,” Drolet explained. Other expenditures include a 18 to 22 year-old Special Education Transitional Program (Seekonk High School) for $350,000. “We will need to spend money to properly create the physical space needed for this new special education program,” Drolet said. “By bringing back some students whom we currently have to pay costly out-of-district tuitions for, we anticipate the creation of this space and this program at Seekonk High School will save us about $200,000 a year each year starting in the 2021-2022 school year and beyond.” Other expenditures are the purchase of a Utility Truck for $65,000 and a Rooftop HVAC AAON unit (Hurley Middle School) for $85,000. The budget calls for the hiring of three elementary classroom teachers – two at Martin School and one at Aitken. Drolet said the additions are needed in response to large class sizes and “sharp enrollment projections” predicted at the elementary level for the next 10 years. “During the 2020-2021 school year, classroom teachers would be added for Grade 2 and Grade 4 at Martin ES; and a classroom teacher would be added for Grade 2 at Aitken ES,” Drolet noted. We plan to pay for 1 of these 3 new classroom teacher positions by reallocating current staff at the elementary level (reduce 1 differentiated instructor teacher position at Martin ES).” The other new positions include a Seekonk High School World Language teacher, a high school English teacher, and a high school special education teacher. “In summary, we will continue to use our 3-year D istrict Strategy for Continuous Improvement to plan for future improvements to our Seekonk Public Schools,” Drolet added. “With continued town support, our top-notch public schools should continue to fully serve our students, attract and retain high-quality educators, and raise property values in town.”

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The Reporter May 2020

Seekonk School Personnel ‘Working Harder than Ever’

By Joe Siegel The teachers and administrators of the Seekonk School district are “working harder than ever” to educate their students, according to Superintendent Rich Drolet. The schools have been closed for the past month due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic but learning continues. “Teachers, staff, and administrators are doing a great job with Distance Learning,” Drolet said Tuesday. “Our parents and guardians are extremely supportive. And our students are working hard each day to meet expectations and rise to the occasion during these trying and unprecedented times.” The schools are being cleaned and sanitized by the custodians. Drolet said another round of deep cleaning will be conducted before students and staff return. Drolet promises to provide graduating high school seniors with formal recognition of their achievements. “I am confident that we will not just mail out diplomas; we will provide some closure and some type of ceremony/ceremonies for our seniors, although this may need to be delayed from June to later into the summer,” Drolet said. For now, the district is looking ahead to the future. “We are figuring out what is working well and also making tweaks as we go,” Drolet said. “We want to learn from this, and we are seeking feedback to make future improvements should the closure be extended or should anything like this ever happen again in the future.”

Seekonk Police and Fire Chief Search Ongoing

By Joe Siegel The search for a new Police and Fire Chief will be continuing, according to Town Administrator Shawn Cadime. “They have been slowed slightly due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” Cadime said Monday. Selectmen have hired a consulting firm to screen candidates. Cadime said Public Safety Consultants, LLC of Pocasset will be paid $11,900 each for the police and fire departments. Fire Chief Michael Healy announced his retirement last April. Healy has served as Chief since his appointment in September 2014. Frederick MacDonald, a veteran firefighter from East Providence, was offered the position by the board of selectmen. MacDonald later withdrew after contract negotiations broke down. Healy agreed to stay on until a replacement is hired. Members of the police department voiced their support of interim Chief David Enos at the January 22 selectmen meeting. Enos was appointed to serve as Chief on an interim basis following the retirement of Frank John last July.

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Seekonk Animal Shelter Set to Open

By Joe Siegel The town’s new animal shelter is nearing completion and will be opening later this month, according to Town Administrator Shawn Cadime. The $1.7 million building, to be located across from the current shelter at 100 Peck St., will be approximately 3,000 square feet and will include two offices, a cat area, indoor and outdoor kennels for dogs, a treatment room, quarantine room, adoption rooms where people can meet the animals, a break room, a car port for the shelter van and more. Work is also continuing on the new playground in the back of town hall. Voters at last November’s town meeting approved $357,000 for the design and construction of the project.

The Seekonk Animal Shelter

New playground in the back of town hall

Seekonk Library Planning to Reopen

By Joe Siegel The Seekonk Public Library, which has been closed for the last month and a half due to the coronavirus pandemic, may soon be reopening its doors to patrons. “A great deal remains unknown about the spread of the virus and this uncertainty has made our planning difficult,” said Library Director Peter Fuller. “Restoring full services will be a complex process that must be implemented in several phases. We are working closely with the Town Administrator and other town officials, and coordinating our planning with the SAILS network and the Massachusetts Library Network. The safety of the library’s patrons, our community and our staff is paramount, so we are proceeding cautiously.” The Seekonk Meadows is still open and being used by the public. The library has postponed all programs that were scheduled to be held there. People continue to walk through the Meadows for exercise. Fuller said that although the library staff has been working from home, some staff members and other town employees are in the building for brief periods to perform necessary maintenance functions, for example, restarting the computer network and telephone system. The library continues to provide library users a wide-range of materials and services online. “The staff has been working diligently to maintain a steady supply of our free, online resources, and to engage electronically with the public,” Fuller added.

May 2020 The Reporter

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The Reporter May 2020

Time for Farm Fresh Goodness Visit Your Local Farms This Season Our little corner of New England is often overlooked, but there’s so much here that’s worth seeing. Though we’re known to live underneath the snow, we also thrive in the summer among the flowers, herbs, fruits and vegetables. Here, there’s an abundance of local farms selling their wares. During the spring and summer, a New Englander should know what their favorite places are selling and when. In-season vegetables for April and May include: Asparagus, Fiddleheads, Lettuces, Nettles, Onions, Carrots, Cauliflower, Cabbage, Kale, Pease, Peppers, Spinach. Fruits are most active in August, save for blackberries, which are active mid-July. In good weather, the growing season can stretch to September and even the end of October. For over 25 years, Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) has become a popular way for consumers to buy local, seasonal food directly from a farmer. Here are the basics: a farmer offers a certain number of “shares” to the public. Typically the share consists of a box of vegetables, but other farm products may be included. Interested consumers purchase a share ( aka a “membership” or a “subscription”) and in return receive a box (bag, basket) of seasonal produce each week throughout the farming season. Check with your local farms to see how you can participate in the CSA program. Rhode Island and southern Massachusetts are in Zone 7a, 6a, and 6b. The average annual, extreme minimum winter temperature here is between 0 and -5 degrees F. Some zones have changed slightly since 1990, now being categorized as 5 degrees F higher (a half-zone higher.) These zones help farmers determine what crops and plants thrive best in their area, though a soil test is also necessary to determine what to grow where. The Local Cooperative Extension Service can help a farmer collect and interpret soil information in their county. From there, one can correct nutrient deficiencies and adjust soil pH. Along with soil, insects can help or harm a crop. Our area has a variety of beetles, moths, caterpillars and other insects that can threaten a plant. A new threat is also on the move; the spotted lanternfly. It’s an invasive species of sap-feeding insect in the plant hopper family Fulgoridae. Though the insect hasn’t been spotted in Rhode Island yet, URI warns that this insect could spread to our local farms, invading “grape, tree fruit, hardwood, and nursery industries.” However, not all insects are bad for your garden either. Spiders and wasps, though terrifying to most, offer a natural pest exterminator, feeding on harmful flea beetles, Japanese beetles, caterpillars, and other insects. For smaller gardens, planting peppermint, spearmint, and pennyroyals which naturally deter pests like ants and aphids, can protect precious plants. No matter how short or long our local growing season is, there are so many options for fresh produce, flowers and shrubs. Take advantage and visit our local farms and garden shops! Information for this article was taken from the following: https://www.almanac.com/plants/hardiness/7 https://web.uri.edu/mastergardener https://www.providencejournal. com/entertainmentlife/20160603/henry-homeyer-poisons-not- necessary-to-rid-your-garden-of-pests-diseases https://www.localharvest.org/csa/

Souza Family Farm

The Souza Family Farm stand is open Father’s day through Halloween and will have more and more vegetables as the season changes. Our large variety of vegetables in-season includes: 40 varieties of tomatoes, zucchini, summer squash, winter squash, peppers, onions, cucumbers, pickling cukes, cauliflower, broccoli, large variety of beans, blueberries, corn, lettuces and more! The Greenhouse is open now with a wide arrangement of flowering plants, vegetable plants, hangers and herbs. Come by and see what is ready and what is growing! We do supplement our produce from local sources. If we don’t grow it, you’ll know it! We accept Farmer’s Market coupons at the Farm Stand as well as SNAP/HIP.

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May 2020 The Reporter

Visit Local Farms Osamequin Farm

Come visit us at Osamequin Farm, at the corner of Walnut St and Prospect St in Seekonk! We are a non-profit cooperative farm, hosting five farmers all under “one roof”, plus Pick Your Own blueberries and sunflowers, and specialty cut flowers! We open up the farm for community gatherings, educational workshops, and private events. Visit our website for all the options and to get on our email list! Sustainability is of the utmost importance to our mission - EVERYTHING we offer is chemical free, grown with organic practices. We only sell what we grow - you can expect to find berries, vegetables, culinary and medicinal herbs, and all the flowers in our Farm Stand this summer. Our blueberries are never sprayed, so they’re safe for the kids to pick and put right into their mouths in the field! Follow us on social media @osamequinfarm to be sure you hear about all our events, workshops, and when the berries are ready to pick! Online shopping is open now for spring flowers and early products. Home delivery or no-contact pickup.

Under the Sun Farm

Under the Sun Farm is open seven days a week for your local grocery and gardening needs. This season we we have taken extra effort to maintain a clean and safe shopping experience. Hand washing is available for customers in the greenhouse and hand sanitizer is available at the registers. You will find our employees wearing masks and gloves to maintain a safe working and shopping environment. We thank you for following marked distancing guidelines while shopping. A little about us... Rehoboth native, Milton Teixeira, proudly runs our diversified, year-round, family farm. We’re growing a wide variety of produce using organic practices to provide healthy, fresh and flavorful food for our community! Under the Sun farm’s greenhouse is full of beautiful proven winner annual flowers, bountiful perennials, and a wide variety of vegetable plants and herbs. Shop at our farm stand too which offers to breakfast muffins, coffee, lunch sandwiches and salads, and all the fixings for dinner including fresh salad greens, a delicious variety of produce, eggs, and local non-GMO meats. Fill your pantry with locally-sourced grocery, bread, milk, cheeses and more! Under the Sun Farm is open MondayFriday 5am-5pm and Saturday-Sunday 6am-5pm. We’re located at 1050 Williams Street, North Dighton. See you on the farm!

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The Reporter May 2020

People In The News Seekonk Author Releases Two New Books 59 Years Serving Our Community & Neighbors for over 54

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My name is Michael W. McKay. I am a Boston Author from Seekonk and have been writing for well over 15 years now. My first book published was called “A Big House For Little Men”. I just released two new books on Amazon. One is called Life ~”Fate & Death which is a Novel”. Life: Most people haven’t lived until it way too late. It is the aspect of existence that processes the uses of energy for physical and conscious development. Yes, we all take life for granted every minute of the day. Not too many people understand that your Life can end within any second of the day, from when one wakes up in the morning, or going to sleep at night. Fate: Is your destination. It’s the development of events beyond a person’s control. It’s destined to happen to each and every one of us, in any second of time. This, you can count on. I am a strong believer in Fate. Which is the development of events outside every person’s control, regarded as predetermined? Problems we all have in life: How you cannot change what is in store for your future. “This is a Fact.” What you’ll need to know and understand is you can-not stop “Fate” from happening. It’s impossible! Death: Only you will have to face it all alone. It’s the permanent cessation of all biological functions that sustain any living organism. Where will you go? I have an idea! I’ll even tell you what happens to your body when you die. Yes, you will all face that one fear you all have: ~ Death And the second is a Fictional Crime Thriller called ~ “Killing Time in Boston” It’s a Story which will bring back chilling memories from the past. Which people in Massachusetts will want to forget. Both Books can be purchased on Amazon right now. If you have a Kindle account you can read these books for free. I am flying out to England in September to speak with a Publishing Company in the United Kingdom. For some strange reason my first book did very well over in Europe. I believe they just loved Crime Thrillers over there. I grew up with Mark Wahlberg and his Brothers, and Mark was one to buy both books from amazon and leave feedback. He loved them and he is one of my 5000 friends on Facebook. I would advise people to buy the books, only because the book and kindle are written differently. I am now working on a Cook Book and two other Novels called;”To Really love A Women” & “You Leave Me No Option” which is the most sought after Novel everyone in this Country. I wrote this book back in 2010 and have perfected it. I’ve already been offered over $75K for it, and turned them down. I also have production companies wanting this story already for a movie. I’m in no hurry, and will go over all my options sometime this year. I love to write and meditate. I’m getting old and have cancer, so, I’m hanging in there and getting by one day at a time. My wife has

May 2020 The Reporter written a children’s book called White Michael and Brown Michael and all the proceeds from that novel went to the St. Jude’s Hospital and the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Matter of fact I have two other books being released soon and proceeds will go there as well. I have degrees in Criminology, Psychology, and Mathematics, and to this day, I am still studying Physics. I am a very intelligent person with an IQ of more than 130. I am a Father and have been married for more than 30 years and both my sons served in the U.S. Military and both are Disabled Veterans. My two kids grew up in Seekonk and now I live between Seekonk and Tampa, Florida. Many thanks for reading this article. I write in my Books “Please, Be Kind To One Another” ~ Michael McKay

Abbie Hopkins Chalks Up Her Second Career All-American Accolade As Well As Being Named ECAC Rider of the Year

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Abbie Hopkins, a junior at the University of Tennessee at Martin from Seekonk, MA, was rewarded for yet another spectacular season as she was announced as an NCAA second team All-American in the equitation on the flat event. Hopkins is only the second Skyhawk to ever earn All-American status in two different events. Hopkins previously was Rehoboth, MA named a second team All-American in fences in 2018, making her one of only 3 UT Martin LICENSED & INSURED representatives to garner multiple All-American honors. MA #058544 Reg # 111902 RI# 7169 Hopkins generated an 8-2-1 record over 11 competitions in 2019-20, ranking her in a tie for the 5th best winning percentage in the country for D1 Equestrian and qualifying her for 2nd team D1 NCAA All American status. She led the UTM team in overall record, scoring average, and MOP (Most Outstanding Performance) recognitions in equitation on the flat. She captured MOP accolades against South Call for Spring Specials Dakota State (Oct. 10), SUNY New Paltz (Feb. 21) and saved her best performance for last, as Hopkins’ season-high score of 89 Rubberized Crack Filling points came in the finale against (#10) Delaware State on Feb. Seal Coating • Chip Sealing 29 earning her another MOP nod. She won impressive points for Asphalt Patching her team winning her match-ups against #2 Oklahoma, #3 South Residential & Commercial Carolina, #4 SMU, and tying her opponent against the #1 ranked and undefeated Auburn. In addition, Hopkins was also crowned Eastern College Athletic Fight the Cost of New Pavement... Conference FLAT RIDER OF THE YEAR to go along with 6 previous We Seal your Old Pavement in-season honors during her successful junior campaign. She was named ECAC Flat Rider of the Month for November while notching ECAC Flat Rider of the Week accolades three times (Sept. 25, Nov. we use... 19, Feb. 25) and a pair of ECAC Fences Rider of the Week nods (Sept. 25, Feb. 25). In her storied three-year career, Hopkins has amassed 19 victories to go along with five MOP’s in flat. She is also responsible for 13 career wins and five MOP’s in the fences event, and the All American nod in 2018 for fences. Abbie is a UTM Equestrian team captain and is a Sociology Major minoring in Criminal Justice. She earned a spot on the NCAA Academic All American Equestrian Squad as well. She is 2017 a graduate of Seekonk High School.

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The Reporter May 2020

RI Reds Heritage Society to Honor Seekonk “Unsung Hero” The Rhode Island Reds Heritage Society has announced the names of five RI Interscholastic League hockey players as the 2020 recipients of its annual Unsung Hockey Hero Awards. Unsung Heroes are high school hockey players who contribute to their teams in ways that perhaps only their coaches and fellow players are aware of. Often, they exemplify the term “student athlete” but there is usually more than that. Many are civic minded and go above and beyond to serve their community while maintaining their focus on academics and hockey. The stories are as varied as the athletes. Awards are given to both male and female hockey players in memory of three former Rhode Island Reds stand out players. The Chuck Scherza Award is given to forwards. The Fernie Flaman Award is given to defensemen and the Gil Mayer Award to goaltenders or defensive players. Seekonk’s Sarah Lisa won this year’s Gil Mayer award for women. Sarah attended La Salle Academy. She was coached by Sean McNamara. Sarah just started playing ice hockey last year because she heard that the team needed a back-up goalie. Sarah already had experience as a field hockey goalie and jumped at the opportunity and challenge of being an ice hockey net minder. Coach McNamara credits some of the team’s success to Sarah, as many of his practices require two good goaltenders to simulate game situations. During this past year, she played in 9 regular season games and garnered a .833 save percentage. Besides her good statistics, what makes Sarah so special is her ultra-competitive mindset. This

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competitiveness is not ego fed, but results from a desire to be great, so as to not let her teammates down. She even turned down being considered for captain as she felt it would be unfair to players who had been there all four years. She just leads by example. Coach McNamara also notes that Sarah is very self-aware. Before the beginning of the season, Sarah was the only goaltender and was preparing to back up a strong offensive team in front of her. However, just before the season started, another goaltender with years of experience transferred to LaSalle. Sarah ended back in the supporting role. Although disappointing, she continued to work hard at her game and welcomed the new goalie with open arms. Ms. Lisa started in a game against a powerful Massachusetts team where her team got off to a bad start and she got switched out. To her credit, instead of sulking, Sarah got right back at it in practice working to get better. She worked so hard that she was named “Practice Player of the Week” because she embraced the need to keep improving. Across Rhode Island Interscholastic play, the following players also received this year’s Rhode Island Reds Unsung Hero awards: The Chuck Scherza award will be given to Emma Byrnes from Smithfield coached by Kerri Nadeau; and Sean Martin also from Smithfield and coached by Robert Jackson. Alexis Malnerich from Barrington and coached by Mike Cox also won this award. The Fernie Flaman award will be given to Rose Flaherty from Warwick, coached by David Tibbitts.

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Manchester, NH (April 24, 2020) - Local students who are studying nursing at Saint Anselm College in Manchester, New Hampshire gathered in the Abbey Church for a blessing before they begin their first clinical placements. The Blessing of the Hands Ceremony held on January 24th is a college tradition that symbolically and literally pays honor to the hands of nursing students for clinical care. A total of 97 future nurses representing 8 states received the Blessing of Hands, marking the beginning of their clinical rotations of the nursing program at Saint Anselm. Local students honored include: Seekonk, MA Kate Lanzi & Sarah Mullen To be eligible for this honor, a student must be in good academic standing and have completed three semesters of a liberal arts nursing curriculum. The nursing students were joined by faculty, family, and friends, listening to prayer and reflection. Father Mathias Durette, O.S.B., presided over the blessing.

May 2020 The Reporter

Club News & ANNOUNCEMENTS Seekonk Lions Club News

For Seekonk residents who plan on going to college this fall, the Seekonk Lions Club Scholarship is now available for download on the Seekonk High School website. You must be a member of the class of 2020 at any senior high school. Applicants must plan to attend an accredited post-secondary institution. Please visit https://shsseekonk.sharpschool.com/For_Students/guidance/college_scholarship_info . You will see a link for Local 2020 Scholarship Opportunities. The Seekonk Lions Scholarship application is there to download. Please submit (by email) your application to the Seekonk Guidance office as soon as possible. The MAY 8th deadline has been extended for the Lions Scholarship to May 29, 2020. GOOD LUCK! And with these current times of stay at home advisories, school closures, prohibiting gatherings of 10 or more people, social distancing, The Seekonk Lions has canceled their world-famous clam boils until further notice. Keep an eye out for what time we recommence. While being a major fundraising activity for the Lions, we are still making local donations whenever possible. Please contact the president at http://www.seekonklions.org if your organization is in need of any vital assistance. As of now, the July 27th Golf Tournament sponsored by the Rotary Club of East Providence/Seekonk and the Seekonk Lions Club Charitable Trust at the Wannamoisett Country Club, 96 Hoyt Avenue, Rumford RI is still being planned and scheduled. The Lions will be giving updates for this wonderful day of golf and fun. As always, be safe and healthy and we look forward to seeing you soon!

Rehoboth Lions Club News

Our Lions Dates Coming up in 2020 Best Known, 4/29 April 29 at 7:00 PM We held a Regular Virtual Meeting via ZOOM and Phone • Rehoboth Lions Voted To Donate Scholarships To Bristol Plymouth Voke H.S., • Bristol County Aggie H.S. and Dighton-Rehoboth Reg. H.S. • Other Donations will go to P.R.I.D.E, Barton Center and Camp Jack (for Diabetes), • CO-OP (Serves handicapped adults) and Perkins School for the Blind. May 6th – Spring Clam Boil = CANCELLED! May 20th Citizens’ Recognition Night – CANCELLED! We Will Try Again In 2021. May 20 board meeting via ZOOM or Phone May 27 ( the 5th Wednesday) a regular meeting via ZOOM or Phone June 3 Is The 4th Spring Clam Boil – CANCELLED! June 7th – Our Lions Annual “Chet Munroe” Drive Up Chix BBQ = CANCELLED!. We May Have One In The Fall June 10th is possibly a board meeting and June 24th is the installation meeting date – Maybe ??? We hope we can have our Cigar Night and our Golf Tournament in August. We Are Currently Planning To Have Our Fall Clam Boils = 1st Weds. Sept/Oct/Nov. The Rehoboth Lions Are always Happy To Have New Members To Help Us Serve Lions Charities, Eye Research And The Rehoboth Community! R. Latham

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The Reporter May 2020

Anawan Oakton Grange News

Hi. Another month of social distancing is in place so no Grange functions or meetings. We are looking forward to June when we hope this crises will be lessened enough to get back to meetings. I read sure signs you’re getting older and will share a couple of them --You decide to procrastinate, but never get around to it. You finally reach the top of the ladder and find that it’s leaning against the wrong wall. Enough of that stuff. Hope it gave you a smile in these trying times. I am watching my son’s seedlings growing under the lamps and am thinking about the onions tomatoes and other vegetables in the future. Hope some of you readers are doing the same. Stay safe.

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Rehoboth Garden Club News

Every year the Rehoboth Garden Club has a plant sale to raise money for local high school seniors or current college students. We award scholarships to students studying agriculture or related environmental sciences. We generously get many of our donated plants from club members and members of the community. This year we were unable to have our annual plant sale. If you are interested in purchasing healthy vegetable plants, one of our donors has several varieties of tomatoes and other types of vegetables. The cost of the plant would be a small donation of your choice to our scholarship program. For a list of available plants, payment info and non-contact pick up information please email hollinshead@uri.edu.

Pete’s Hi-Lo Jack League Now Forming

Pete’s Hi-Lo Jack League now forming beginning September 2, 2020 (Wednesday) at 7:00 PM. Fifteen week session held at the American Legion Post, 302 Antwan Street, Rehoboth. Please call Beverly Michaud for further information or to sign up 508-761-5087.

Rehoboth Anawan Lions News

The Rehoboth Anawan Lions are not having in-person meetings at this time, but we are staying contact with each other. We are voting on our upcoming positions for our next year’s President and cabinet members and planning our fundraisers. We hope you and your families are healthy and safe; and hopefully we will all be able to get back to visiting with our families and friends soon. Sincerely, Rehoboth Anawan Lions

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How to Mail and Ship Without Leaving the Safety of Your Home

You don’t have to go to the Post Office to use many postal products and services. In fact, most simple tasks can be done from the convenience and safety of your home with or without a computer. Like purchasing stamps. Using your computer, you can go to the Postal Store on usps.com and select different stamp denominations. USPS will deliver them right to your home. No computer? No problem! Ask your local Post Office or carrier to bring you a Stamps by Mail order form, complete it and put it in your mailbox with a check. Again, USPS will bring you your stamps. What if you need to send a package? You can order free Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express boxes, or other package supplies at usps.com. Again, USPS will deliver items to your address. And at usps.com, using Click-N-Ship, you can print a mailing label with the appropriate postage right from your computer. Need that package picked-up? Go to usps.com and schedule a free carrier pick-up. In your request, let your local Post Office know where they can find the package or packages and the carrier will retrieve them when he or she delivers your mail. USPS postal employees are working around the clock to ensure you get your important letters and packages. Skip the trip to the Post Office by ordering stamps, package supplies, and printing package postage from your home. We’ll pick up your packages too. It’s the most effective type of social distancing around! The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses, and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

May 2020 The Reporter

SCOUTING AROUND TOWN Girl Scouts of Southeastern New England Offering Free Virtual Programming for Girls of All Ages change in their routine that can make them feel disconnected. At Girl Scouts of Southeastern New England has been forced Girl Scouts, we are fortunate to be able to continue offering the to suspend all in-person Girl Scout activities including meetings, same quality programming to girls, volunteers, and families virtually events, programs, and cookie booths through until further notice, for at-home enrichment experiences. The unique and far-reaching during the Covid-19 pandemic. In an effort to support their local Girl Scout sisterhood experience will help us stay connected during communities, GSSNE members and non-member families with these unprecedented times. Every day, we will add virtual badge PreK-1st Grade girls can participate in a weekly Zoom meet-up activities, programs, and resources for girls and families to engage which will include an hour of free programming and engagement with from home. These are all available to the public—no Girl Scout every week for four weeks beginning May 9, 16, 23, and June 6. membership is necessary. Check back often! www.gssne.org Each week there will be a different sampling of Girl Scout programming to keep the girls engaged through activities created so they can utilize household items to participate. Families interested in signing-up can register on the following link. Pre-K-1st grade girls TRI-STAR AUTO BODY, INC. will also have the opportunity to join Girl Scouts through this excitMA RS. # 1367 ing, interactive, membership opportunity during these programTowing ming sessions. Foreign & Domestic In addition to providing free programming for the younger audiFree Estimates ence, there is also a robust line-up of free virtual programming for GO GREEN older girls as well, including a popular new financial literacy program We handle all insurance claims WATER BASED taught by founder and educator of ReisUp, Tara Falcone. ReisUp PAINT helps girls understand the seemingly complex world of money manComplete auto collision repair agement while empowering them to take control of their financial Serving our community for 35 years futures through this unique new badge program. “I hope that girls having the ability to earn these financial literacy badges online will 1849 Fall River Ave. (Rt 6), Seekonk, MA • 508-336-6475 accomplish three things: First, to give these young women a safe, community-driven space in which to learn about money. Second, Visit our website www.tristarautobodyma.com to make learning about financial fundamentals more accessible to Robert Coelho Jr. - Owner • tristarab3@comcast.net those who wouldn’t otherwise be able or feel comfortable attending money presentations in person. And third, to help this next generation of female leaders feel confident, empowered by, and in control Specializing in RI & MA Commercial & Residential Real Estate of their financial futures,” says Falcone. The www.AubinCorp.com • 508-336-4000 x 14 program was so popular that GSSNE hopes Diane Aubin, Principal Broker • 401-524-5877 to continue offering more badge work opdaubin@aubincorp.com portunities for interested girls throughout the Kelly Hathaway • 774-229-6832 year and beyond. Senior Manager of Girl Experience, lots available on cameron way Anna Lyons said, “Girl Scouts at Home” programs are thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of girls of all-ages from K-12. Our goal is to provide some “normalcy” for girls to continue their Girl Scout progression, while also recognizing the ever-changing circumstances that we’re now all living in. For example, our partnership with ReisUP REHOBOTH: 54 Cameron Way: had been in the works for a few months, but it seemed to be the perfect time to launch Luxury 3.2 acre home site just minutes a virtual opportunity for older Girl Scouts to from Route 6 and I-195. If you are REHOBOTH: 115 Cameron Way: It’s earn their financial literacy badges at home, looking for quiet and tranquil look no time to build your dream home! This at their own pace, when it’s convenient for further! Approved septic design. them. Similarly, our Daisy Drop-Ins will be a beautiful parcel has been fully cleared, chance for our youngest Girl Scouts to come stumped and has a well and septic design. together for a series of short, fun activities, The property sits above the street and has for lease while also giving prospective Daisy’s an pond views in the rear. This community is opportunity to see what Girl Scouts is all built with underground electric, sidewalks about!” for walking and restrictive covenants to For additional virtual programming for preserve the pure beauty of the area. The varying age rangers, please see below: Check out: gssne.org/athome for additional owners have designed a one-level home EAST PROVIDENCE: 1 Dexter Rd. FREE activities and programs for families they would be proud to share. 7,000SF Industrial Warehouse 2-OHD and older girls! We know that this is a challenging time for families—staying home from school away from friends is a significant

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The Reporter May 2020

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Pictured from left to right are Mrs. Fernandes of the Rehoboth Food Pantry, Tayla D., Sophie S. and Noelle B. from Rehoboth Junior Troop 494 who earned their Girl Scout Bronze Award. The girls recognized the need for better communication of town resources. They created a pamphlet with town information, phone numbers, hours of operation and websites, all in one quick brochure. Copies can be found at the Rehoboth Food Pantry. Their hope is to also distribute at other locations.

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May 2020 The Reporter

Food & Dining Taste of Summer

A menu made for summer indulgence (Family Features) A summer weekend isn’t complete until you fire up the grill, but flame-kissed steaks are just the start to an unforgettable meal that celebrates all the best of the season. To create the perfect main dish, start with high-quality protein, like Omaha Steaks’ Private Reserve Boneless New York Strips. Thick, juicy and full of flavorful marbling, these premier steaks are meticulously aged for optimal taste and tenderness with robust, beefy flavor brought out when cooked properly on the grill. If you’re opting for burgers, elevate your menu with flavorful accompaniments like crisp candied bacon, sauteed shrimp and zesty homemade pickles for a menu you won’t soon forget. Find more ideas for upgrading the grilling experience in your own backyard at OmahaSteaks.com.

Candied Bacon

Prep time: 5 minutes ~ Cook time: 25 minutes ~ Servings: 8 Ingredients: • 1 pound (1pkg) Omaha Steaks Applewood Smoked SteakCut Bacon • 1 tablespoon fresh ground black pepper • 1 cup packed light brown sugar Directions: • Heat oven to 375 F. • Place wire rack on foil-lined baking sheet. Place strips of bacon on wire rack and sprinkle with black pepper. Lightly pat brown sugar on top of bacon in thin layer. • Place baking sheet on center rack in oven and bake 25 minutes, or until brown sugar melts and bacon is crisp.

• Remove from oven and cool 10 mins. Transfer bacon to parchment-lined baking sheet and cool to room temperature. • Store in airtight container up to 3 days at room temperature.

Quick Pickles

Prep time: 10 minutes ~ Cook time: 5 minutes ~ Yield:1 1/2 cups Ingredients: • 1/2 cup white vinegar • 2 teaspoons sugar • 1 teaspoon mustard seed • 1 teaspoon salt • 1 clove garlic, crushed • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) • 1 teaspoon dried dill, chopped, or 2 tablespoons fresh dill leaves • 1 bay leaf • 4 cucumbers, cut into angled 1-inch slices Directions: • Heat small saucepan over medium high heat. Add vinegar, sugar, mustard seed, salt, garlic and red pepper flakes, if desired; cook until mixture begins to simmer and sugar dissolves. Remove from heat. • In heat-proof bowl, toss dill, bay leaf and sliced cucumbers. Pour simmering liquid over cucumbers and stir to evenly coat. Cool to room temperature or chill before serving. • Note: Pickles may be made up to 3 days in advance. Refrigerate in covered non-reactive container. continued on page 38...

Continuing to serve locals since 1948

Always open to the public

Currently Offering Take Out Wednesday - Saturday 4-7:30 & Sunday 1 – 6pm For all menus: www.hillsidecountryclub.com/dine/lacollina For live music schedule/events: www.hillsidecountryclub.com/calendar

LaCollina is located at 82 Hillside Ave., Rehoboth MA 508.252.5563 Make a reservation today!

NEW CURB SIDE HOURS & SPECIALS Wed. Dinner 4:30-7:30 PROMO: Pint of Chowder, 6 Clam Cakes, 2 Stuffys $20 -or- 3 FREE Clam Cakes w/ total purchase $8 fish sandwich with fries

Friday Dinner 2:30-8:00

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The Reporter May 2020

OPEN FOR TAKE OUT 4pm to 8pm 7 Nights a Week

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May 2020 The Reporter

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The Reporter May 2020

Going Out? Staying In? Find Good Food Right Here. Connecticut-Style Shrimp

Prep time: 5 minutes ~ Cook time: 10 minutes ~ Servings: 4

Ingredients

4 tablespoons unsalted butter 2 tablespoons chives 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon black pepper 12 large, cleaned, uncooked Shrimp

Directions

Heat medium skillet to medium-high heat. Add butter; cook until melted. Add chives, salt, pepper and shrimp to pan. Cook 2 minutes, turn shrimp and cook 2 minutes, or until shrimp is opaque and cooked through. Remove from heat and serve.

Dry-Brined New York Strips with Grilled Brown Butter Balsamic Onions

Prep time: 1-12 hours ~ Cook time: 30-40 minutes ~ Servings: 4

We’re here for you during this uncertain time. Please visit our website for updates and daily product lists with prices.

Ingredients

Dry Brine: 4 tablespoons Kosher salt 1 tablespoon coarse ground pepper 4 (11-ounce) Omaha Steaks Private Reserve Boneless New York Strips, thawed Butter and Balsamic: 4 tablespoons salted butter 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 2 teaspoons fresh thyme Grilled Onions: 2 large sweet onions 4 wooden skewers, soaked 1 tablespoon olive oil salt, to taste pepper, to taste

To make dry brine: Combine salt and pepper; season steaks generously on all sides. Place steaks on elevated rack on baking sheet and refrigerate at least 1 hour or overnight. To make butter and balsamic: Heat small skillet to medium high heat. Add butter and cook until butter begins to brown and smell nutty. Remove from heat and add balsamic vinegar and thyme. Set aside. To make grilled onions: Peel off outer layers of onions. Slice into 1/2-inch slices. Lay onions on flat surface. Push skewers through centers of onions; two onion slices per skewer. Brush onions with Mon: Closed Tues-Fri: 11am-7pm Sat-Sun: 10am-6pm olive oil and season with salt and pepper, to taste. To cook steaks and onions: Make two-zone fire on charcoal grill 319 Tremont Street, Rehoboth, MA 02769 with coals on one side and no coals on the other. Place onions on cool side of grill; flip and rotate every 10 minNOW OPEN IN REHOBOTH AT CHARTLEY’S PLAZA! utes until golden brown, approximately 25-30 minutes. Total time will depend on how hot coals are and how close onions are to fire. When onions are golden and tender, brush with brown butter balsamic mixture. 12 Ft Famous for our On hot side of grill, during last 15 minWings and Pulled Pork HD TV utes of cook time for onions, cook steaks to Over 80 Flavors of Sauce desired temperature. When steaks are 5 F Huge Salads • 16 Beers on Draft from desired temperature, remove from grill and let rest 5-10 minutes. Remove onions from grill. Carefully remove onions from skewers and place in serving dish. Top with remaining brown butter balsamic mixture and serve with steaks. #15206 Source: Omaha Steaks

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May 2020 The Reporter

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Seekonk Public Library www.seekonkpl.org • library@seekonkpl.org Seekonk Library Services Update

"Quality Service Since 1945"

We hope you are keeping healthy and safe during the COVID public health emergency. For the health & safety of our staff and community, the library building is currently closed due to the COVID-19 public health emergency. The outside book drop is locked. Delivery services to and from the library have been suspended across the state. We ask that you hold onto your library materials until the library re-opens. Library staff and many of our services remain here for you: Contact us. Staff are working remotely from home and are available to answer questions. Contact us via email at library@seekonkpl.org or childrens@seekonkpl.org, via social media, or by phone at 508-336-8230. While monitoring these accounts remotely we will make every effort to reply in a timely manner. New library cards. You can register for a library card online from our website seekonkpl. org; click on “Get a Card” at the top of the page. You will have access to the digital formats provided by OverDrive and the statewide accessible databases for 60 days. Download, Stream and Learn. We encourage use of our online resources, which include ebooks, audiobooks, music, streaming movies, and databases, available FREE from www.seekonkpl.org with your Seekonk Library card. Our Wi-Fi is ON. Our wi-fi service is on and accessible from our parking lot. The network is “Guest” and no password is required. Please note that parking closer to the library is your best option for access. Please observe distancing and other health guidelines. In cooperation with the SAILS network, we have made the following updates to library services: Due dates will be extended. Due dates for items currently checked out across libraries has been extended. Overdue fines will be waived. Overdue fines will be waived for all library items currently checked out during our closing. Hold pickup dates will be extended. If you had been notified prior to our closure that an item was available for pick-up, that item will be available for you when we do re-open. During this virus, we are following the guidelines from Governor Baker, our Town Administrator, and our public health officials. At this point, it is uncertain when the library will re-open. Keep in touch with service updates through social media, the library website, and our email newsletter. You can sign up for our email newsletter by clicking “Newsletter” at the bottom of our website seekonkpl.org. Please know we will continue to serve you remotely, we thank Visit Us you for your ongoing support, and we look forward to seeing you again. For information, visit www.seekonkpl.org or email library@ seekonkpl.org.

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Seekonk Public Library Services for Children and Families

Seekonk Library has resources that support at-home learning and leisure reading. Need assistance? Email the Youth Services Librarians at childrens@seekonkpl.org

Books, Books and More Books for Your Child

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

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The Reporter May 2020

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OverDrive

Your child’s source for e-Books and audio books for every device. Discover picture books, chapter books, graphic novels and more. Explore Libby, the ‘user-friendly’ OverDrive app. seekonkpl. org. No monthly limit on checkouts.

Hoopla

Instantly borrow eBooks, audiobooks, comics, movies, music and more for your child, 24/7 with your library card. Monthly limit on checkouts.

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Encourage reading with interactive, books and activities. Something for every age child! Featuring picture books, chapter books, graphic novels, National Geographic videos, games, puzzles & more. No app needed, nothing to download, no borrowing, just click and read. Visit seekonkpl.org and scroll to bottom of homepage for link.

Help your infant, toddler or preschooler strengthen their vocabulary and language skills while promoting the habit of reading by participating in our 1,000 Books program. Research has shown that Increased vocabulary and language skills are important tools for children to have as they begin to learn to read in kindergarten. To start the program while the library building is temporarily closed, please register at seekonkpl.org/kids. After registering, write down the titles or the number of books read using a 1,000 Books reading log, a piece of paper, or the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten app. Reading logs are available at seekonkpl.org/kids. When the library building reopens, show us your child’s reading logs to receive awards such as a tote bag, free books and a 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten t-shirt. Tip: If you read one book multiple times, you may write the title down every time you read the book. Why? Because the program isn’t about individual titles; it’s about the habit of reading, plus, children learn by repetition so reading a book many times is actually quite beneficial for kids! See all the program details, including all of the incentives, visit seekonkpl.org/kids “Read it and Reap!”

Homework Help for Kids…and Parents

Does your child need homework help? Access Seekonk Library’s high quality, reliable resources at seekonkpl.org/kids. Look for Remote Learning Favorites.

May 2020 The Reporter

Encyclopedia Britannica for Children

By selecting a reading level (1, 2 or 3) children search for information and subjects that are just right for them. Reliable information from a trusted, online encyclopedia. Great for research projects. seekonkpl.org/kids

Britannica FUNdamentals

Children choose learning paths (read, explore, play and create) that build language, critical thinking and comprehension skills. Engaging and interactive. seekonkpl.org/kids

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Accelerated Reader…from Home

Running out of books for your child to read for Accelerated Reader quizzes? Browse our collections of eBooks for every reading level. Books are available through Overdrive, Hoopla and Tumblebooks (visit seekonkpl.org for links to these collections.) To take an A.R. quiz, go to seekonkpl.org/kids and look for Accelerated Reader.

For Advertising Information and Rates Call 508-252-6575

Download More Magazines from Overdrive

Your Seekonk Library Card gives you access to even more digital magazines than before with the Overdrive Magazine collection. Magazines have no wait lists or holds, do not count towards checkout limits, and provide readers the option to renew their selections. Readers can also download magazines on Libby for offline use. To get to the Magazine Reading Room, visit sails.overdrive. com and click on “Magazines” at the top. In the Libby app, click “Explore” and then “Guide: Magazines.” This collection includes the latest issues of a wide selection of fifty titles in Business & Finance, Entertainment, Food & Cooking, Health, Home & Garden, Lifestyle, News & Politics, Science and Technology, and Travel. Popular titles include: Cosmopolitan; Country Living; Family Handiman; Food Network; HGTV; House Beautiful; Kiplinger’s Personal Finance; Men’s Health; O, The Oprah Magazine; OK!; Reader’s Digest; Yoga Journal Even more titles are available to borrow in Overdrive from our partner libraries; Try it today! For assistance or more information, visit www.seekonkpl.org or email library@seekonkpl.org.

“A library is a hospital for the mind.”

CRONAN PAINTING CO. INTERIOR l EXTERIOR I RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL I POWER WASHING

508.375.1357

Free Estimates - Licensed - Fully Insured

Jarrett Cronan, Owner www.cronanpainting.com jarrett@cronanpainting.com

East Bay Pressure Wash Co. LLC

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL SERVICES

SOFT WASHING - POWER WASHING (LOW PRESSURE) ROOF & HOUSE CLEANING We use Just the Right Pressure for Better Cleaning Eliminate further growth of lichen, moss and black mold from your roof. Houses • Roofs Celebrating our 12th year in business! on any soft or Vinyl Siding • Decks pressure washing offer expires 7/30/2020, can not be combined Fences • Patios

10% OFF

with any other offer or promotion

Vinyl Siding Mildew Retardant Application Included w/any House Cleaning

Call for Free Estimate 401-245-5268

We have been in business for over twelve (12) years.

www.eastbaypressurewash.com eastbayhousewash@gmail.com We Accept All Major Credit Cards

The Reporter May 2020

Earle's Car pet & Upholster y Cleaning 2 ROOMS $75

6ft Sofa $75 Loveseat $45 Chair $35

Max. 240 Sq.Ft.

4 ROOMS $125 Max. 480 Sq. Ft.



prices may change due to gas. $75 minimum charge

Earle Dias Interiors

(508)252-6385

151 Winthrop St., Rehoboth MA • Tues.-Fri.10-5 • Sat.10-1

www.earlescarpetcleaning.com

WILLIAM GALLANT, JR.

MASONRY SERVICES ~ SINCE 1992 ~

508-252-9000

www.gallantmasonry.com

News and Notes from.... Blanding Library By Leslie Patterson

Blanding Library News

The Blanding, like other public libraries in the state, is still closed right now due to the corona virus epidemic. Blanding Director Whitney Pape says, “The library staff and the Rehoboth Antiquarian Society, the library’s parent organization, are making plans for the library’s re-opening, when it is advisable to do so. We’re working on getting supplies for then. We miss seeing our Rehoboth friends and want to make coming to the library in the future as safe as possible. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we all pull together as a community to get through this difficult time.” “Meanwhile, due dates for library materials will be automatically extended. Any overdue fines accrued during this time will be waived. Expiration dates on library cards will be extended.” “While the physical library will be closed, the library’s online services will be available 24/7 from www.sailsinc.org, as well as the Overdrive and Libby eBook apps. You may also sign up for an e-card with Boston Public Library to access additional online resources, https://www.bpl.org/ecard/ The Blanding’s website is: http://www.rehobothantiquarian. org/blanding-library/

The Reporter is Participating in The Front Porch Project! Purchase a Gift Certificate from any of our advertisers and get a FREE digital photo of your family! Text Dave Andrade at 774-226-3739 to Redeem The photographer comes to you adheres to social distancing guidelines by staying a safe distance away.

May 2020 The Reporter

SPORTS UPDATE

Advantage Painting Servicing Rehoboth and surrounding towns for over 20 years

We do most Home Maintenence and Repairs

Interior & Exterior Call Brian at (774) 406-0478 Free Estimates • Fully Insured • Commercial & Residential

Hello League families!

Hope this finds everyone safe and looking forward to better weather soon. The RYBSA board is continuing to monitor public health guidelines as the situation continues to evolve. Even with the Governor’s latest update, we remain focused on providing baseball and softball for the kids and league families this year, when it’s safe to do so, even if it means amended schedules such as shortened season or running a bit longer than usual. To that end, the board has been hard at work to make the season start up time as short as possible once the guidelines are revised. This includes things like replacing the old leaking storage containers with a new storage shed, updating equipment, nets, and getting jerseys lined up etc. One key step for this is that we plan to move ahead with team formations for our baseball divisions starting with majors draft, then AAA in the week ahead. Younger divisions and softball to follow. We hope this will help make the prospect of the season ahead a little more “real” for our players as well as helping them get started asap when the restrictions are lifted. If you or any friends have been holding off on completing a registration don’t hesitate so your player is sure to be included. Deadline is Friday (5/1) for Majors and Sunday (5/3) for AAA to ensure a spot. Tee-ball, A, and AA deadline May 6th. We have received some questions about what will happen if the season is not able to move ahead and we will evaluate that situation should it develop - at this point we’re focused on being ready to provide a summer tradition in a time when we are all missing many traditions. If you have any questions please reach out to the board member or division VP through the league website www.rybsaonline.com Thanks, RYBSA Board

Truly Local News Delivered

Monthly In your HOME... Daily On your computer.

www. .com

Since 1999 Insured Free Estimates

 Full Service Yard Maintenance  Patios and Walkways  Retaining Walls and Stairs  New Lawn Installations  Small Excavation/Bobcat services

Call us today! 508-252-3749 Check out our website to view project photos: www.oakhilllandscaping.com

Licensed & Insured

Tree Pruning • Removal Land/Lot Clearing Storm Work • Stump Grinding Veteran owned & operated

www.HeritageTree.net

The Reporter May 2020

David Laurino Plaster & Paint Serving Rehoboth for Over 30 Years

Call David 508-252-4773 Fully Insured

Free Estimates

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

It’s the Best Time of Year for Birds and Birders!

Audubon Offers FREE Guided Bird Walks in May May 2020 Highlights from the Audubon Society of Rhode Island It’s the best birding of the year! Grab your binoculars, search for spring migrants, and take time to explore those special places in nature with Audubon! Unless noted, registration is required for all programs. Register online and view a complete listing of programs through the events calendar at www.asri.org. Please note: In support of efforts to stem the outbreak of COVID-19, the Audubon Society of Rhode Island is temporarily closing all facilities to the public, including the Nature Center and Aquarium in Bristol. All programs, classes, and events are also cancelled. We will be making decisions based on guidelines from the Rhode Island Department of Health. Please check our events calendar at www.asri.org or contact Hope Foley hfoley@asri.org, to insure the following May programs will be running.

All Work Guaranteed

Free May Birding Walks - 2020

Spring Migration is here! May is the peak month for the spring bird migration, with something different moving through each week. Get in on the best birding of the year with Audubon! Novice birders are welcome. Walks are geared for teen to adult.

Sundays

Northeastern Auto Supply, Inc. 1095 Newman Avenue, Seekonk MA 02771 508-761-6400 • www.neastauto.com Knowledgeable, Professional Service Deal directly with 2nd generation owners, each with over 30 years experience!

• Home Delivery Available • Most Parts in 24 Hrs • Parts for Older Cars • Hydraulic Hoses Made • Free Check Engine Scan

Right Part, Right Price, Right Now!

Caratunk Wildlife Refuge, 301 Brown Ave., Seekonk, MA May 17, 31, 2020; 7:00 8 :30 am. NOT Memorial weekend.

Mondays

Fort Nature Refuge, (Rt. 5), 1443 Providence Pike, North Smithfield, RI May 11, 18, 2020; 8:00-10:00 am. Note that no walk will be held on Memorial Day, May 27.

Tuesdays

Maxwell Mays Wildlife Refuge, 2820 Victory Hwy, Coventry, RI May 12, 19, 26, 2020; 8:00 am-10:00 am.

Wednesdays*

Locations determined weekly, please visit the Audubon website or Facebook page for details, no registration necessary; May 13, 20, 27, 2020; 9:00-11:00 am. NOT May 6.

T. Moreshead Landscaping 2 Burnside Ave. • Seekonk, MA 02771 • https://www.facebook.com/tmland/

Over 20 Years Experience!

Tom Moreshead (508) 399-5399 (508) 878-8012

Services

Thursdays

Marion Eppley Wildlife Refuge, Dugway Bridge Road, West Kingston, RI May 14, 21, 28, 2020; 8:00-10:00 am. Touisset Marsh Wildlife Refuge, Touisset Road, Warren, RI May 21, 2020; 9:30 am-12:00 pm. Beginning Birding

Bobcat, Backhoe Service, Land Clearing, Walkways, Retainer Walls, Underground Sprinklers, Lawn Seed or Sod, Design Plantings

Emilie Ruecker Wildlife Refuge, Seapowet Avenue, Tiverton, RI May 14, 28, 2020; 9:30 am-12:00 pm. Beginning Birding

Fridays

Fisherville Brook Wildlife Refuge, 99 Pardon Joslin Road, Exeter, RI May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 2020; 8:30-10:30 am.

Saturdays

Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge, 12 Sanderson Road, Smithfield, RI May 9, 16, 23, 30, 2020; 9:00 – 10:30 am. * Free Wednesday Morning Bird Walks will continue through June 2020.

May 2020 The Reporter

Counting the Birds of the Four Seasons Art Exhibit by Amy Veldman-Wilson

Custom Designed Homes & Additions

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, Bristol, RI May 3 – June 30, 2020

In the birding community, Block Island is a well-known location to find wide diversity of species. From shorebirds, to raptors and songbirds to ducks, Amy Veldman-Wilson has been spent hours observing and photographing the fascinating birds found on the Island. She also creates stunning illustrations and paintings, working in a variety of mediums from pencils and pastels to painting with oils and acrylics. Amy’s work has been selected for awards and international exhibition’s such as David Shepherd Wildlife Artist of the Year 2015 and Woodson Art Museums’ Birds in Art 2017. Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, 1401 Hope Street, Bristol, RI; Free with Admission. Ages: All.

FREE Wednesday Morning Bird Walks

Locations Across Rhode Island May 13, 18, 20, 27, 2020; 9:00 am

Audubon offers FREE Wednesday Morning Bird Walks with naturalist Laura Carberry. Each week a new birding destination will be chosen. Please visit the Audubon website (asri.org) or Facebook Page for the location. Contact Laura at lcarberry@asri.org for more information. Locations determined weekly; Every Wednesday through June 2020; 9:00-11:00 am; Ages: 14+.

General Contract, Entire Project or Any Phase Remodeling...

Contractor: RI Reg. #7576 MA Reg. #115080 Contractor Supervisor Lic. #024214 • Insured

Kitchens, Baths, etc. • Decks • Garages • Roofing • Siding • Replacement Doors & Windows

We work with insurance companies on storm damage

Call 401-290-8895

Tom Nerney - Licensed Construction Supervisor Licensed Home Inprovement Contractor

Over 20 Years Experience in the Local Community EST. 1994

Line Striping • Residential Driveways • Commercial Repair

Bird Banding

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, Bristol, RI June 13, July 11 and August 15: 9:30-11:30 am

Join Bird bander, Steve Reinhart and his team to witness bird banding, where experts capture, band, measure and release songbirds in order to record their movements. Birds will be gently removed from tall “mist nets” set in Audubon’s shrubby habitats. The techniques of identifying, measuring, weighing, and banding the birds will be demonstrated before they are released. The migratory habits and life history of each captured species will be discussed. Bring a camera and binoculars. Programs are limited to 15 participants, please register early. Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, 1401 Hope Street, Bristol, RI; Fee: $8/ member adult, $4/member child; $12/nonmember adult, $6/non-member child. Ages: 6+. Register online through the events calendar at www.asri.org.

Visit www.asri.org for more Events and Updates

Be one of our satisfied clients: Private roads • Excavation Paver driveways, walkways, and patios Parking lots • Tennis and basketball courts We are licensed and insured for your protection.

Contact All-Phase Asphalt Paving today at 508-336-0064 for a FREE estimate! Email: allphaseasphalt@gmail.com

Roger Beausoleil - Owner

The Reporter May 2020

Support Local Restaurants COUNTRY KITCHEN Serving Breakfast & Lunch

est 1987

COUNTRY KITCHEN

•Fresh Fruit Waffles• •Homemade Pies• •Fish-n-chips• •Daily Specials• •Catering Available•

Offering CATERING Serving Breakfast & Lunch AVAILABLE

Take Out, Take outWaffles• AvailablePickup (508) 336-9807 •Fresh Fruit Curbside 469 Taunton Ave., Rt. 44, Seekonk, MA •Homemade Pies• CATERING and Delivery •Fish-n-chips•

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 6am-2pm, Sat. 7am-11am, Sun. 8am-12pm

We l c o m e

To O u r Is l a n d

Open for Take-Out Daily 11am-7pm

To Order Take out Available (508) 336-9807

Offering curbside pickup. Orders can be placed by calling 401-431-1322 or via online ordering through www.madeirarestaurant.com and click on online ordering tab.

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 6am-2pm, Sat. 7am-11am, Sun. 8am-12pm

288 Warren Avenue, East Providence

AVAILABLE •Daily Specials• Call 508-336-9807 •Catering Available• 469 Taunton Ave., Rt. 44, Seekonk, MA

EAT

We’d like to thank everyone for being so supportive of local businesses during this challenging time

VinosFamilyCafe.com 508.336.4361 503 Winthrop St. Rehoboth

AY TW

, IT IT THE RIG WAY R H U

10 Boyd Ave, East Providence, RI. 02914

Be safe, stay home, and enjoy gourmet, chef-prepared meals delivered right to your door. 881 Waterman Ave, East Providence RI

401-753-2572 www.feastandfettle.com

Take Out ThursdaySunday 11:30am8:00pm 540 Central Ave, Rte 152 Seekonk MA

(401) 431-1737 www.italiancorner-ri.com

508-761-6854

Monday-Friday 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM Saturday-Sunday 9:30 AM-4:00 PM

WWW.BONEYARDBARBECUE.COM Order Inside or Curbside Pickup!

Full Menu Available 508-336-0822

1395 Fall River Ave. Seekonk MA

508.336.4384 www.facebook.com/EatsSeekonk

628 Warren Ave East Providence, RI 02914

401-434-6678 www.millersroastbeef.com Delivery Available: Grubhub, Door Dash, Ubereats, Postmates

www.lemonandoil.com • neil@lemonandoil.com

52 Mink Street, Seekonk MA

May 2020

The Reporter

Offering Take Out | Some OFFERING Delivery TOO ASK ABOUT BEER & WINE TAKE OUT

Primarys

Highlights

r e s ta u r a n t “The Perfect Comfort Food”

er CIALS anza

Summer Extravaganza We’re Open for Takeout

45 Newport Ave # D, Rumford, RI 02916 • (401) 223-5050 911 Warren Ave, East Providence, RI 02914 • (401) 434-1666

Summer r e s t a u rSATURDAY ant Extravaganza & SUNDAYwww.chelos.com

HOURS Wednesday: Dinner 4:30-7:30 Thursday Dinner 4:30-7:30 Friday: Dinner 2:30-8 Saturday: Dinner 4:30-7:30 Sat & Sun: Breakfast 8:30-11:30 “The Perfect Comfort Food” SEE MENU ITEMS ON PAGE 35

Summer Extravaganza

Fresh Mexican Street Food.

Fresh ingredients with an original bold taste!

Sun-Thurs 11:30-8 Fri & Sat 11:30-9

326 Bullocks Pt. Ave. Riverside, RI 02915

Summer SPECIALS Extravaganza 11 AM - 2 &PM ONLY SATURDAY SUNDAY

401.808.6940 ndays, Tuesdays, 481 Winthrop St • Rehoboth, MA days only Order online r e s taat u rwww.unionburrito.com ant (508) 336-7773

SPECIALS

“The FindPerfect us! Comfort Food”

SPECIALS $ 99 delivered to you! LUNCH SPECIALS HAM &SATURDAY & SUNDAY EGGS 9 Available from 11am - 3pm on Mondays, Tuesdays, $ 99 11&AM - 2$24.99 PM ONLY RIB EGGS SPECIALS 9 Wednesdays and Thursdays only Ham or 1165 PrimeFall rib River and scrambled eggs Ave, Seekonk MA 11 AM 2 PM ONLY APPETIZER $ 99 served with home fries & rolls with butter

PETIZER

999

Call for more details or to place an order!

HAM & EGGS Japanese $ $ 99 RIB &HAM EGGS & EGGS & Thai 9

9 $ 99 9

FREE 5OFF FREE Dessert Chips & Drink

with purchase UESDAYS WRAPPED $999ONLY 2685 GAR Hwy, Swansea MA of any meal.

CALLOPS

YOUNG’S CATERERS

Family meals

pm on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays only

WRAPPED 9 Limit one coupon per person per (508)BACON 379-6072 SCALLOPS visit. Cannot be combined with any other offer or discount. Take-out,ONLY Delivery & Curbside TUESDAYS MONDAYS ONLY TUESDAYS ONLY 11:30am-7pm Daily $ 99

SHORT RIB $999 served with potato & vegetable or pasta

Ham Prime and scrambled $eggs $25orPurchase RIB &ribEGGS 999 with purchase More. servedorwith &ofrolls with butter Ham home or Prime ribfries and scrambled eggs any meal. served with home friesLimit & rolls butter onewith coupon per person per

Limit one coupon per person per visit. Cannot be combined with any other offer or discount.

508-336-3388 mizuseekonk.com

visit. Cannot be combined with any other offer or discount.

Summer We are open for take out HURSDAYS ONLYExtravaganza & curbside - pick up only WEDNESDAYS ONLY

SHORT RIB $999 served with potato & vegetable or pasta

THURSDAYS ONLY

Phone orders only 401-438-4646 THURSDAYS ONLY

We have daily individual as well as family size take out meals. We also offer Chicken Pies, French Meat Pies and Stuffies everyday. For menus contact us on facebook at Young’s Catering or call our office phone at 508-336-4053 .

REHOBOTH HOUSE OF PIZZA

Summer Extravaganza 503 Winthrop St,

res ta u r a n t No substitutions “The Perfect recommended Comfort Food” Reservations

Rehoboth MA

No substitutions

Reservations recommended No substitutions Reservations recommended

no online orders

508-336-4053

Hours of operation: Monday - Friday 9am to 6pm (pickups 12-6pm) Saturday 9am to 3pm

$ 99 PRIME 99 RIB 9 SHORTROASTED RIB $9 served with potato & served with potato & vegetable or pasta vegetable or pasta

364 Newman Avenue, Seekonk Ma

508-336-0116

508.557.0839 508.557.0839SATURDAY & SUNDAY Order Online Regular menu, Gluten Free menu & LUNCH SPECIALS

www.rehobothhouseofpizza.com Winthrop508.557.0839 Street • Rehoboth, MA 02769 SPECIALS

Winthrop Street • Rehoboth, MA 02769 Available from 11am - 3pm on Mondays,569 Tuesdays, 99 HAM $9and SINGLE BOILED $999 Wednesdays Thursdays only uncletonys.com/east-providence/ 569 Winthrop Street • Rehoboth, see our menu on page 36MA Catering menu all available 569

served with potato & LOBSTER HAM $999 www.facebook.com/UncleTonysEP/ vegetable or pasta 99 with potato & served with potato & $9served HAM vegetable or pasta APPETIZER vegetable orserved pasta with potato &

www.ialiverestaurant.com11

THE ULTIMATE

BACON WRAPPED

Like us on Facebook for Specials! AM - 2 PM ONLY

www.ialiverestaurant.com www.ialiverestaurant.com

Newport Avenue, vegetable260 or pasta Rumford, RI 02916

$ 99

We deliver to all parts of Rehoboth & Seekonk 02769 Hours Monday 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm $10 Pizza Night Sunday & Tuesday - Thursday 11:00 am - 8:00 pm $ 11:00 99 am - 9:00 pm Friday & Saturday

HAM & EGGS RIB & EGGS

9 9

$ 99

Ham or Prime rib and scrambled eggs served with home fries & rolls with butter

The Reporter May 2020

TRAVASSOS & KUSIAK

Real Estate Brokerage Jean M Kusiak Broker/owner, GRI, notary

20 years experience (401)

225-3700

www.TKREB.com

Rehoboth Council on Aging A Municipal Department of the Town

The Council on Aging is closed to public access until further notice. Exceptions by appointment ONLY. For pressing issues please call and leave a message at 508-252-3372. Stay safe and healthy. Please join us again when we reopen in the future.

Meals on Wheels Flowers

Finally Winter's Over, But Don't Forget...

No Frills, No Bills.

C.O.D. OIL

Joan Arguin and Babs Levesque Joan Arguin and Babs Levesque are delivering Meals on Wheels and potted flowers on Good Friday to our Seniors. The flowers were donated by Souza Family Farms in Rehoboth. The Rehoboth Council on Aging would like to thank everyone for their kindness and support.

Announcements

• Meals on Wheels is still being delivered by our volunteers. • We are continuing to make masks for Seniors. We are in need of cotton fabric and ¼ inch elastics. If you can donate, please call and we will set up a safe and secure drop off

Kenny’s

Masonry & Chimney Sweeps Locally Owned & Operated for 20 Years

Quality, Service & Dependability

• INSPECTIONS • EMERGENCY SERVICE • SWEEPING • CAPS • LINERS • REBUILDS • WATERPROOFING • FLASHING • DRYER VENT CLEANING

Masonry Repair & Restoration: Walkways • Patios • Pavers • Walls • Chimneys 508-649-1938

www.kennysmasonryandchimneysweeps.com

Gert’s Café

Lunch is served at Gert’s Cafe` Mondays at 12 Noon. $3.00 Donation

Tuesday Lunch

Tuesdays from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM

The COA Breakfast

Wednesdays from 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM

Tasty Thursdays Lunch

Held on the last Thursday of the Month at 12 noon. Cost $3.00 donation.

Men’s Morning Coffee Fridays at 9:00 AM

Card Games

Mondays at 9:00-11:00 AM - Cribbage Wednesdays at 12:30-3:00 Hi-Lo Jack

Art Classes

Michelle’s Art Classes Weds at 10:30. Cost $4.00 Donation

Knitting and Crochet Group Fridays at 10:00 AM

The Reporter

May 2020

Ladies Sewing and Quilting Tuesdays at 10:30 AM.

Blood Pressures & Glucose Screenings

Please contact the COA 508-252-3372 for more information.

Podiatry Clinic with Dr. Marian Markowitz

Please call 508-252-3372 to schedule your appointment.

Cardio Drums

Mondays @ 2:00 pm

Tai Chi Classes

Tuesdays at 9:00 AM. Cost $3.00 Donation

Line Dancing Classes

Tuesdays at 10:00 AM. Cost is $3.00

Chair Yoga

Thursdays at 9:00 Cost $3.00 Donation

Zumba

Thursdays at 10:00 AM. $3.00 Donation

Meals on Wheels

Please contact Bristol Elders, Inc. at (508) 675-2101 for information.

S.H.I.N.E / OUTREACH

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

Senior Citizens Club

1st Thurs @ 12:30 & 3rd Thurs @ Noon

Friends of the Rehoboth Elderly

10:30AM on the 3rd Monday of the month.

Veteran’s Information & Benefits

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

generational activities, crafting programs and other programs beneficial to our seniors. c. Provide information on health care plans from the Health Connector, Medicare, MassHealth (Medicaid) and other State and Federal Assistance programs.

Massachusetts Health Connector Coverage

We want everyone in Massachusetts to know that if they need coverage, they can do so through our special enrollment period which runs through May 25. Do you need health insurance? The Health Connector’s got you covered. An extended enrollment period is available for uninsured Massachusetts residents through May 25. Apply today --> https://www.mahealthconnector.org Have you experienced a job change and no longer have health insurance through work? Massachusetts Health Connector has an extended enrollment for uninsured residents through May 25. Apply by April 23 for coverage that starts May 1 --> https:// www.mahealthconnector.org/the-right-planright-now If you need insurance, you may qualify for coverage through the Health Connector if you’ve lost coverage from a job. An

Over 30 years in business Veteran Owned

• Interior & Exterior Painting • Residential & Commercial • Pressure Washing • Cabinet Refinishing • Wallpapering • Small Carpentry LUNDCO PAINTING 21 Brook St, Suite 17 Seekonk, MA 02771

DLund@LundcoPainting.com 508-761-6556 www.LundcoPainting.com

Advertise In The Rehoboth/ Seekonk Reporter

Call 508-252-6575

Continued on next page ...

M&S Cleaning Service Residential - Commercial

Full Service Cleaning Co.

Carpets • Windows • Floors • Walls Post Construction Clean-Ups • Rentals

Call (508) 252-3259

Free Estimates

Fully Insured

The Rehoboth Council on Aging

A Municipal Department of the Town Mission: The Rehoboth Council on Aging shall coordinate and carry out programs designed to meet the needs, problems and benefits for the aging population of Rehoboth, and shall do so in coordination with the Programs of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The Rehoboth Council on Aging shall: a. Provide, coordinate and link available resources to help meet the needs of the Town of Rehoboth’s elders. b. Carry out programs and services that range from information on community education, referrals, outreach, transportation, Meals on Wheels, health screenings, inter-

Art Supplies • Custom Framing Fine Cabinet Lumber • Furniture Restoration Decoy & Woodcarving

Hours M•T•T•F 9-5 Wed til 8 Sat 9-1

The Reporter May 2020

LANDSCAPING SERVICES Call Matt at 508-431-7444

Lawn Cutting / Trimming Yard Cleanups • Bobcat Services Small Demo Jobs Free Estimates Landmaint2018@gmail.com

Mention this ad and get $10.00 off first job

extended enrollment period is available through May 25, 2020 in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Apply today and get covered --> https://www.mahealthconnector.org/the-right-plan-right-now The Health Connector’s got you covered. If you’ve recently lost health insurance through your job, has an extended enrollment for uninsured residents through May 25. Apply by April 23 for coverage that starts May 1--> https://www.mahealthconnector. org/the-right-plan-right-now Important Dates and Deadlines As we mentioned, May 25th is the extended enrollment period deadline is coming up soon, so we have the suggested timeline. It is especially important to take action now before each month’s enrollment deadline for coverage that starts the following month. Timeline for Coverage for Start Dates through July 1, 2020: Starting May 1st - enroll April 23 Starting June 1 - enroll May 23 Starting July 1 - enroll May 25 Where to find the Health Connector Online Follow the Health Connector online: • Health Connector Website: www.MAhealthconnector.org • Twitter: www.twitter.com/healthconnector • Facebook: www.facebook.com/healthconnector • Instagram: www.instagram.com/healthconnector • LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/massachusettshealth-connector • YouTube: www.youtube.com/themahealthconnector For additional assistance contact: Bradley Marshall – Outreach/SHINE Coordinator at the RehobothCouncil of Aging – 508-252-3372

Rehoboth Senior Citizens Club News

Full Service Septic & Drain Cleaning Company Pumping • Repairs • Title V Inspections

Emergency Same Day Service

Rehoboth & Seekonk

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Yearly dues of $5.00 are to be paid by June 1st. Make checks out to the Rehoboth Senior Citizens Club and mail in care of The Gladys L. Hurrell Senior Center, 55 Bay State Rd., Rehoboth, MA 02769. Members who are 90 years old as of this year no longer have to pay dues. The Club meets the first and third Thursday of each month at noon. The first Thursday is a regular meeting followed by snack and bingo or games. The third Thursday usually has a meal then a brief meeting followed by different activities; such as games, entertainment, etc. Because of the Coronavirus, April meetings were cancelled. The Club was not able to hold its election of officers and will be postponed until April 2021. Its not looking good for May either. The 90th Birthday Party scheduled for May 21st may be held on a later date. • June 18th, a luncheon is scheduled with entertainment by Kalifornia Karl. • The club does not meeting the months of July and August. • October is our annual fundraiser which will be a dinner with raffles. It is also our big raffle and the club needs prizes for first, second and third places. • November 19th is our Thanksgiving luncheon, 12 to 3:00. • December 17th is our Christmas luncheon. Lets pray the virus is gone quickly, and we can start meeting again. Stay safe and God Bless you! Lorraine A. Botts, President

Social Distancing Shouldn’t Lead to Social Isolation

By Sandra Harris, AARP Massachusetts State President Even in the best of times, social isolation is a significant problem. In Massachusetts, 540,250 people over the age of 50 live alone and are at higher risk of social isolation, which is now magnified by the “social distancing” requirements across the country.

May 2020

The Reporter

That’s worrisome. In fact, the World Health Organization was so concerned that the General Contractor “social distancing” directive was contributing to isolation that it has modified the wording of its guidance: It now urges people to practice “physical distancing” to prevent the spread Established in 1940, 3rd Generation of the virus. Make no mistake: The long-term effects of social isolation are very real. Over a prolonged period, the impact of social isolation is as harmful to an individual as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. In fact, isolation is more dangerous to one’s health than obesity, and it’s linked to a Specializing greater likelihood of early death, accelerated cognitive decline, poor cardiovascular function, stroke and depression in adults 50 and older. in Kitchen & Bathrooms We may have all scaled back our personal interactions to stay safe, but that doesn’t mean we have to be alone. Today’s technology offers myriad ways to keep in touch with • Remodeling • Additions family, friends, neighbors and loved ones. • Siding • Silestone Here are some steps to stay connected: • Granite • Painting • Measure your risk for isolation – or that of your loved one – at AARP Foundation’s Connect2Affect.org. This platform also provides lists of community assistance pro• Roofing grams for medical care, food, and job training. • Plug into the growing number of mutual aid groups that organize volunteers to assist older neighbors by, for example, picking up prescriptions or going grocery shopping for them. AARP recently launched the “Community Connections” tool, also in Spanish at www.aarp.org/MiComunidad, to help you find a group in your area. You can also request a “friendly call” from an AARP volunteer through the website or by calling 1-888-281-0145. Peter Batty • Go virtual. Many in-person activities are now being offered online. Your local fitness RI Reg. # 33335 / MA Reg. # CS51340 center, for example, might be offering virtual exercise classes. Or perhaps your book club now meets online. AARP’s website [www.aarp.org/coronavirus] offers daily fitResidential / Commercial ness videos, links to movies that stream online, and other ideas to stay active and engaged during this difficult time. • Volunteer to provide critical services. It’s a way to assist others while also helping you find purpose and avoid isolation. 55 Winthrop St. (Rt. 44) Rehoboth Mentors and tutors, for example, are always in high demand and both roles can easily be filled remotely. You might also want to volunteer to answer helpline calls related to the pandemic. Visit https://createthegood.aarp.org. • Identify vulnerable older adults in your family or neighbor • Kitchen Countertops hood and make a plan to have someone reach out to them • Vanity Tops We Will... on a regular basis by phone, text, email or virtual chat. This Match Your • Island Kitchens is an excellent opportunity to introduce someone unac • Fireplaces & more Lowest Price quainted with Zoom, Skype or Facetime to this new method Satisfaction of communication. Local Showroom Guaranteed! • If you are working from home, consider virtual lunches or with in stock material happy hours. It’s important to take time to catch up with your colleagues on a more informal level. (And you might Deliveries & Installations even glean a few tips on successfully navigating the new (508) 252-4300 • Fax (508) 252-4242 world of telework.) We Accept Debit & Credit Card • Go old school. Reach out to a family member or friend by

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sending a letter or postcard. Enclose a photo or two in the letter to spark a fond memory. “Physical distancing, so critical right now, does not have to mean social disconnection. We can maintain and even increase our social connectedness during this difficult time,” says Lisa Marsh Ryerson, President of AARP Foundation, which is exploring creative ways to help older adults connect and stay connected — to each other and to their communities. If there is one thing that this pandemic has made clear, it’s that personal connections are immensely valuable and sorely missed. Let’s resolve to keep those links strong and vibrant during this crisis, especially for our most vulnerable family, friends and neighbors.

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Seekonk Human Services Announcement

Seekonk Human Services will be closed to public access until further notice. For pressing issues please call and leave a message at 508-336-8772.

Estate Planning Wills Health Care Proxy Power Of Attorney

Please check with the center for upcoming activities.

Visit the *The Town Crier website link is www.seekonk-ma.gov. Click on Departments, then click on Human Services.

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The Reporter May 2020

From the State House House and Senate Authorize Virtual Notarizations

Boston – The House of Representatives and the Senate have approved legislation authorizing notaries public to conduct electronic notarization of documents during the ongoing novel coronavirus State of Emergency. State Representative Steven Howitt (R-Seekonk) explained that Senate Bill 2645 will allow Massachusetts residents to obtain notarization services for executing wills, real estate title transfers, guardianships, health care proxies, and other essential documents while using real-time video conferencing to help maintain proper social distancing. The bill was enacted in both legislative branches on April 23 and is now awaiting final approval from the Governor. Senate Bill 2645 establishes strict parameters for validating virtual notary transactions, including requiring the notary public and each of the principals involved to be physically present in the Commonwealth. Copies of the video recording and all related documents must be retained by the notary public for a period of 10 years. The bill also requires each principal involved in an electronic notarization transaction to provide the notary public with satisfactory evidence of their identity, which can include a government-issued ID containing the individual’s photo and signature. The principal must also arrange for the executed document to be delivered to the notary public following the video conference. For transactions involving mortgages and real estate title transfers, a secondary form of ID must also be provided, such as

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a credit card, Social Security card, municipal tax bill, or a utility bill. A follow-up video conference is also required for these types of transactions so the notary public can confirm the document received matches up with the document that was executed during the initial video conference. Once approved, the provisions of Senate Bill 2645 will remain in effect until three business days after the State of Emergency is lifted.

House, Senate Give Board of Elementary and Secondary Education the Power to Waive MCAS Requirements

Boston – The House of Representatives and the Senate have approved legislation authorizing the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to waive MCAS testing requirements for the 2019-2020 academic year due to the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 global pandemic and the ongoing State of Emergency in Massachusetts. State Representative Steven Howitt (R-Seekonk) said that in addition to the proposed MCAS changes, House Bill 4616, An Act to further address challenges faced by municipalities, school districts and state authorities resulting from COVID-19, would also allow regional school districts to delay finalizing a Fiscal Year 2021 budget beyond June 30, and extend the deadline for school districts to file progress reports mandated by the 2019 Student Opportunity Act. The bill was enacted in both legislative branches on April 9, and is now on Governor Charlie Baker’s desk awaiting his signature. Under the bill, the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education would be empowered to waive the requirements of the competency determination for high school graduation, with the recommendation of the Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education. High school seniors who are unable to take or complete a competency determination assessment administered in the spring of 2020 would be given the opportunity to take or retake the assessment at a later date. The bill also mandates that the requirement for a comprehensive diagnostic assessment of individual students be waived for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year. Because some participating cities and towns may not be able to finalize a budget on time this year, House Bill 4616 would also permit regional school districts to suspend the statutorily-required vote on the approval of their Fiscal Year 2021 budget until after June 30. To provide for the continued operation of the regional school district in the absence of a completed budget, the Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education would be authorized to certify one or more 1/12th interim budgets until a new budget is finalized. Representative Howitt noted that House Bill 4616 also moves the reporting date for schools to submit their first 3-year plan to close student achievement gaps, as mandated by the Student Opportunity Act passed last year. The bill sets the new reporting deadline for May 15, but allows the Commissioner to extend the date even further, if needed. Additional provisions contained in House Bill 4616 include language: allowing for the in-person verification requirements to be suspended, waived, delayed or simplified for both the Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program and the Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT) program for the duration of the State of Emergency; moving the date by which the MBTA board must approve a preliminary budget from March 15 to May 15; and moving the date by which the MBTA must submit a final budget to the advisory board from April 15 to June 15. House Bill 4616 includes an emergency preamble, which means it will take effect as soon as Governor Baker signs the bill.

May 2020

The Reporter

Beckwith Middle School News

Robert Choate Tree Surgeon

Residential & Commercial Complete Services Winners of the PTSA Reflections Contest with Mr Shea and Mr Pirraglia

Students of the Month

The following students were selected Student of the Month for the month of February: • Gr 8 – Caitlin Laliberte/Justin Chmielewski • Gr 7 –Haleigh McCracken/Anthony Mercer • Gr. 6 – Avery Brown/Hawkyns Pray • Gr. 5 – Ava Randall/Damien Landry • Related Arts – Aubree Miller/Jack Swan

PTSA Reflections Contest

Congratulations to the following Beckwith students whose entries earned awards in the recent PTSA Reflections Contest. Winners will be contacted directly by the state level of the PTSA. In the category of literature, Aundraya Pinho, Caraline Corvi, and Rowan Whittaker all earned the Award of Merit. In the category of photography, Ryan Bomes earned the Award of Excellence and Cole Gifford earned the Award of Merit. In the category of visual arts, Benjamin Bogosian earned the Award of Excellence.

Wax Museum

Fifth graders in Rooms 101, 102 and 104 participated in a “Wax Museum” on February 27. Students chose a historical figure from the Revolutionary War. Students were required to research their person, create a poster, make an artifact, create a speech and, finally, dress up as their figure. This was a successful learning experience for our students.

Career Day

On February 5 and March 4 Beckwith held Career Day for our eighth grade students. Volunteers from a variety of fields including a veterinarian, vet technician, insurance industry, parole officer, physical therapist, attorney, pastry chef, nurse, police officer, representatives from Rehoboth Ambulance, U.S. Army first sergeant, a retired special education teacher, and our superintendent came in to speak to our students about their jobs, responsibilities, ethics, educational requirements, and what they like most and least about their jobs. We would like to thank Courtley Watson, Megan Sousa, Elizabeth McCann, Sharon Hoskins, Andrea Wasylow, Kate Pirraglia, Mark Soliday, Sarah Burton, Scott & Bonnie Meagher, Alan Jerauld, Dr. Azar, Keith Perry, and Jesse Armell for taking time out of their busy days to make this event possible. Thank you also to Mrs. DiFilippo for coordinating Career Day.

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The Reporter May 2020

BMS AHA Fundraiser

Beckwith Middle School recently held its annual American Heart Association (AHA) Fundraiser organized by Physical Education teachers, Miss Miller and Mr. Sampson. The fundraiser kicked off in early February and culminated with the Play for Heart Events held on March 4 for grades 7 and 8 and on March 5 for grades 5 and 6. BMS has been ranked #1 in donations raised in Southeastern Massachusetts in four of the last five years and has been #1 three years in a row since 2016. Once again, our school community did

BMS students making a difference participating in the Play for Heart Event

not disappoint. More than 150 students donated money to help us reach our new goal of $4,000 and we crushed that goal this year by raising $5,886! This grand total more than triples the donations from the closest ranking school! In early February, Miss Miller and Mr. Sampson challenged BMS with trying to raise at least $4,000 for the American Heart Association by collecting money from family and friends to support heart health, research, and education. Interesting facts about heart health were posted throughout the building and were also announced during morning announcements. During Health and Physical Education classes, the topics of heart health and empathy were discussed in order to inform and inspire. Stories were shared about students, family, and friends touched by heart disease. Envelopes began pouring in from students in all grades and many students raised money online. In addition to collecting money, many students also chose to participate in the Play for Heart Event. We had over 100 students participating over the two-day event. Each participant needed at least a $5 donation to play, but many students raised much more than that! Students were allowed to bring teams of 3-4 players of their own choosing to compete in four different activities: dodge ball, corn hole, 4-square, and basketball. Everyone who wanted to play was included on a team. Also, a handful of very courageous staff members joined in on the fun, including our own administrators, Mr. Pirraglia and Mr. Shea, who were a force to be reckoned with! Teams tallied up wins throughout the challenge, but the main focus was on great teamwork, good sportsmanship, and friendly, spirited competition to highlight the importance of movement and fun in keeping one’s heart healthy. In addition, we also had our own sixth grader, Ben Darling, speak at each event. Ben struggled with heart issues at a very young age and is now a shining example of what your American Heart Association dollars can do to help those in need. Thank you gifts from the AHA for donations of $10 or more will be coming in and will be delivered to students that earned them. Finally, we are so proud of our students, their families and friends, and our whole school community for the outpouring of generosity and support in raising money and awareness for a very worthy cause and for helping to make our BMS fundraiser a huge success…not to mention keeping our school in the #1 spot for our region! Way to go, Beckwith Middle School!

SPIRIT WEEK 2020

Although we couldn’t be together to celebrate Beckwith Spirit Week this year, we were together in spirit. We are including a few photos of our virtual Spirit Week Grade 5 students dressed and presented as Revolutionary War figures for their Wax Museum

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Message from Mr. Shea

Dear Friends, Let me start by telling you that we miss everyone. The whole staff has impressively handled learning an entirely new approach to teaching students; however, what we are struggling with is not seeing our students’ faces and wonderful personalities each and every day. We hope you are all safe and we can’t wait until September when we will celebrate our time together. As we officially enter the next phase of distance learning due to Governor Baker’s announcement on April 21, 2020, we want everyone to know that our students’ and families’ well-being is our number one priority. Everyone is feeling an excess of emotions right now. We are all justifiably feeling fear of the unknown, sadness that we will not be able to properly say goodbye to our peers, students, and friends as we start new chapters in our lives. There is anxiety about too many things to mention. The one emotion I want everyone to stop feeling is guilt. I often talk with students about what the best version of themselves looks like. We need to adjust ourselves and understand that in this situation, in which our lives have been up-ended, our best is measured by many factors. My 2-year old is watching way too much Disney + (especially Puppy

May 2020

The Reporter

www.providencecountryday.org THE Providence Country Day SCHOOL

127 Tremont Street The Reporter May 2020

Rehoboth, MA 02769

VIRTUAL SPIRIT WEEK AT BECKWITH!

March 27, 2020

Dearest Family,

You are all in my heart and prayers daily. As this is the worst that can happen it has out the best in people. Take this time to strengthen family bridges with your children t faced with a difficult challenge in their lives they will know they can cross that bridge h them share in household chores to continue a sense of responsibility that we nurture the farm. Hang a flag out and pledge it (like we do every morning) to show American determination to face any situation. Drag out some games and play them with your kid internet has a plethora of things to do with children but remember while they are her school all they want to do is be with you. Give them your time, love and attention, the yet free are the most valuable gifts you can give your children.

As Twin forOaks myFamilies, staff we all share the giant hole in our hearts that this separation has cau Dearest The silence is deafening: the missing laughter, no eyes look forward to when we once again are all together, singing, drawing, cooking, learni filled with wonderment, no questions, no smiles behind achievementsUntil and no teachers be part keep of it all. Ityou is playing. then, eager mayto God happy, kind andWearing safe.Class You will find these simple Colors! almost more than we can bear. But with every storm there is rules play a part in your life every day. a rainbow. When once again we open and all the pieces of joyful learning and experiences once again fill a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life, then we will be renewed. We are still receiving e-mail requests for September enrollment and look forward to giving tours of our exceptional Always, venue. Until then, you are all in our hearts and prayers. Stay safe, enjoy this time with your children and know that soon Miss and Anaand trust for their they willWanda be in that care youMiss have chosen well being and academic growth. Respectfully, Miss Wanda and Miss Ana

Blue & White Day

Super Hero Day

Dog Pals). Yet, he is also spending much more time outside than prior to the shutdown, and luckily we are also getting an unusual amount of family time. We try to be the best version of ourselves that we can each day. The most important thing we need to understand is that our kids will be okay. This is a once in a generation experience and we need to remember that students are resilient. If they do need support, we are here to help. At Beckwith we often talk about the reasons for clear expectations. It is my core belief that we all need to know what is expected of us so that we can rise to those expectations. COVID-19 has

May 2020

The Reporter

Monday was Sports Day and the celebration was open to students and their families if they chose changed all those expectations. As a district we are expecting students to try the best they can to follow a three and a half hour day schedule, to the best of their abilities. Please remember the important outlet that the related arts classes serve our students. Some days will look different than others, and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s okay, as long as students are trying their best; we are here to support everyone. Lastly, I want to extend my thanks to our staff. I want to thank the teachers. In

a very short time, they have had to learn a new methodology and delivery of instruction, yet their number one concern and true focus has always been their students. Every staff member through flexibility, creativity, and hard work has made a positive impact on our ability to continue to educate and support our students. Thank you all for all you do. Thank you, stay safe, be smart, and always be kind. Ryan Shea

Creative Arts Day

The Reporter May 2020

Rehoboth Salute to Seniors!

Senior Shout-Outs! PARENTS: We would like to help you celebrate your seniors in our June issues. Please call the office at 508-252-6575 or email marketing@reportertoday.com for details & pricing. We had such an overwhelming response that if you do not see your submission here.... be sure to check the June issue!

May 2020

The Reporter

Seekonk Salute to Seniors!

Seekonk Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) Surprises Seniors with Signs These kids have had a rough end to their high school days. They are missing their friends, sports & activities. The prom and other senior events they were looking forward to have been cancelled. They are missing out on so much and we wanted to support them in some way. A few parents brought to us the idea of the signs and we thought it was a great idea. We kept it a secret so the families would be surprised when we delivered them.

Parents are telling us after the signs were delivered that this is the first time in a while they have seen a smile on their childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s face. Follow us on Facebook to see more photos! To the Seekonk High School Class of 2020: We know this wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t the way you envisioned your Senior year. We are with you. We are proud of your class and all of the great things you have accomplished!

Senior Shout-Outs! PARENTS: We would like to help you celebrate your seniors in our June issues. Please call the office at 508-252-6575 or email marketing@reportertoday.com for details & pricing.

The Reporter May 2020

Distance Learning at Palmer River

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May 2020

The Reporter

Summer Camp! Providence Country Day School Offers Virtual Summer Camp

East Providence—Providence Country Day School is the first school in Rhode Island to offer virtual summer camp. Available to campers from ages four to fifteen, PCD’s Virtual Summer Camp is safe, highly interactive, and offers an easy, at-home way to keep kids engaged over the summer. PCD Virtual Summer Camp will offer workshops in visual arts, performing arts, culinary arts, and the sciences. Camp will take place from June 22 to July 31; details and registration are available at providencecountryday.org/ summer-programs. PCD’s Virtual Summer Camp will run each day from 9:30am to 1:00pm with a lunch break in the middle when campers can continue to connect with friends or go offline. Each day includes three fifty-minute workshops with highly trained staff teaching printmaking, yoga, cooking, bubble making and more. Campers will connect to the camp using the Zoom’s secure video conferencing platform. Every week campers will be given a Treasure Box of supplies that they will use at home to make various projects and crafts. PCD’s Virtual Summer Camp offers a chance for kids to socialize with other kids and take back summer from COVID-19. In the event that social distancing guidelines are lifted, PCD’s Virtual Summer Camp is structured to easily transition to an on-site camp program on our beautiful 30acre campus with state-of-the-art turf fields and two outdoor pavilions. Providence Country Day School, established in 1923, is a college-preparatory school serving students in grades six through twelve. Through a vigorous handson program of academics, visual and performing arts, competitive athletics, and service, PCD students develop as independent and critical thinkers, resourceful creators, and resilient innovators. PCD’s mission and values are upheld by a faculty distinguished by academic excellence and deep personal commitment. Deep and lasting relationships are at the very core of PCD’s teaching and learning. PCD’s diverse student population is drawn from more than 45 communities throughout southeastern New England and around the world. Providence Country Day School 660 Waterman Avenue East Providence, RI 02914 For further details, please contact Emet Schwartz, Director of Summer Programs at schwartz@providencecountryday.org.

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The Reporter May 2020

IN MEMORIAM Allan F. McGuy, Sr. Seekonk - Allan F. McGuy, Sr., 81, passed away peacefully at home with family by his side on Thursday, April 16, 2020. He was the beloved husband of his high school sweetheart, Ruth G. (Wilczek) McGuy. Together, they would have celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary this May. Born in Pawtucket, he was the son of the late Chester W. and Emelia V. (Kienoski) McGuy. Allan earned double bachelor’s degrees from both the University of Rhode Island and Bryant University (formerly Allan F. McGuy, Sr. Bryant College) in Smithfield, RI, and went on to work as a mechanical engineer at the Naval Underwater Systems Center in Newport, RI for many years until his retirement. Allan was awarded a JCI Senatorship in Rhode Island, for having displayed determination and leadership in his local organization. While in the JC’s he established a close group of friends who became his extended

family for over 50 years. In his free time, he enjoyed playing golf, bowling, skiing and playing cards with his family and friends. Allan was a member of the Crestwood Country Club, Rehoboth, MA for over 23 years, and a longtime member of both the Mount Moriah Masonic Lodge No. 8 in Lincoln, RI and The Villages Masonic Lodge No. 394 at The Villages in Florida and was a member of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite Valley of Providence where he held the rank of 32nd Degree Master Mason. Above all, Allan was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, who will be sadly missed, but lovingly remembered by all whose lives he has touched over the past 81 years. Besides his loving wife, Allan leaves three children, Robin A. Tansey and her late husband James Tansey of Rehoboth, Allan F. McGuy, Jr., of Mont Vernon, NH and Wendy R. Lussier and her husband, Daniel, of Milford, MA; eight grandchildren, Ryan, Matthew, Joshua, Adam, Jason, Emelia, Mitchell and Allan, III and three great-grandchildren, Evan, Aubree and Emma. Due to the current state and department of health restrictions of the Covid-19 Pandemic, Services will be held at a later date. If desired, memorial gifts may be made to either the Seekonk Congregational Church, 600 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk, MA 02771 or Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite Valley of Providence, 2115 Broad Street, Cranston, RI 02905. Arrangements are entrusted to William W. Tripp Funeral Home, Pawtucket, RI. For online condolences visit: TRIPPFUNERALHOME.com

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Don’t count the days, make the days count. For this too, shall pass...

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May 2020 The Reporter

Kurt A. Schnabel Kurt A. Schnabel, age 58, of Rehoboth, MA, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, April 3, 2020 after being diagnosed with glioblastoma (GBM) brain cancer in 2017. He was the loving husband of Karen (Seagrave). Born in Providence, RI, he was a son of Arthur Schnabel and the late Betty (Haggerty) Schnabel. Kurt grew up in East Providence, RI before moving to Barrington, RI where he resided for 30 years. He had been a Rehoboth, MA resident since 2015. Kurt worked for Somerville Lumber for 10 years. Most Kurt A. Schnabel recently, he was a Data Center Systems Architect at Boston Consulting Group (BCG), where he was employed for 20 years. An avid cyclist, Kurt was a member of the BikeWorks Swansea Velo Club and the Narragansett Bay Wheelmen. Kurt also played the guitar and loved music. He enjoyed woodworking and did much of the work to build his dream home in Rehoboth. Kurtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s incredible laugh, sense of humor, and positivity touched everyone who knew him. Besides his wife of 36 years, Kurt is survived by his daughters; Kara Schnabel (Michael) of San Diego, CA and Keri Schnabel of Kunming, China. He is also survived by his siblings: Betsy Samet (John) of St. Louis, MO, Paul Schnabel (Diane) of North Kingstown, RI, Mark Schnabel (Kathy) of Cranston, RI and Eric Schnabel (Cheryl) of Wrentham, MA; his mother-in-law Therese Seagrave of Bristol, RI, as well as a large extended family and many wonderful friends and colleagues. Due to current restrictions on public gatherings, a celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations in Kurtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s honor to: The National Brain Tumor Society, 55 Chapel St., Suite 200, Newton, MA 02458 (www.braintumor. org) or Southcoast Visiting Nurse Association, 200 Mill Rd., Suite 120, Fairhaven, MA 02719, ATTN: Community Affairs (https://www. southcoast.org/visiting-nurse-association). Arrangements are in the care of Waring-Sullivan Home at Birchcrest, Swansea (www. waring-sullivan.com).

Obituary Submission Policy To submit an obituary for print, please call the Reporter Office at 508252-6575 for rates and information. Obituaries Start at $75. The Reporter has free obituaries on our website. View and Post at: www.reportertoday.com

The Reporter May 2020

IN MEMORIAM Hilda R. “Ruth” (Martin) Thornley Rehoboth — Hilda R. “Ruth” (Martin) Thornley, 79, of Rehoboth passed away on Tuesday, April 7, 2020 at Rhode Island Hospital. She was the beloved wife of James F. Thornley. Ruth was born in Taunton; she was the daughter of the late Wallace H. And Ada R. (Reed) Martin. She worked as a secretary for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for many years until retiring. Mrs. Thornley enjoyed camping, and spending time with her family. She was kind, caring and always supportive. Survivors besides her husband James are two sons; James F. Thornley Jr, of Rehoboth and Daniel S. Thornley and his wife Darlene of Dresden, Maine, grandchildren; Samantha Thornley, Tonya Thornley, brothers; Paul Martin of Rehoboth, Stephen MarHilda R. “Ruth” (Martin) Thornley tin, as well as several nieces and nephews. She was predeceaed by her half brothers Clarence Martin and Wallace Martin Jr. A Celebration of Ruth’s Life will be held once restrictions are lifted. Arrangements entrusted to the Crapo-Hathaway Funeral Home, 350 Somerset Ave, Taunton.

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194 Warren Ave., East Providence, RI 02914 Licensed In Rhode Island & Massachusetts

Eleanor M. (Hirsch) Choate

Eleanor M. (Hirsch) Choate Choate, Eleanor M. (Hirsch), 88, of Seekonk, MA, died peacefully on April 13, 2020 at the Hattie Ide Chaffee Home, East Providence. She was the beloved wife of Dudley A. Choate. Born in Pawtucket, a daughter of the late Arnold and Marie I. (Couture) Hirsch, she lived in Seekonk for 56 years. Mrs. Choate was a graduate of East Senior High School (Tolman), Pawtucket Class of 1949. Eleanor was a member of the League of Women Voters and she was an election polling clerk for the Town of Seekonk. She enjoyed the beach and playing the piano. Besides her husband of sixty five years, she is survived by her children, Marilynn Harper and her husband Bob of Seekonk, MA, Robert Choate and his wife Donna of Rehoboth, MA, Nancy Choate of San Francisco, CA, and Elaine Choate of Seekonk, MA and five grandchildren. She was the sister of the late Dorothy Laird and Marion Hirsch and step-daughter of the late Helen Hirsch. Her funeral service will be private. Arrangements are by the W. RAYMOND WATSON FUNERAL HOME, Riverside. For full obituary and online condolences please visit wrwatsonfuneralhome. com

May 2020 The Reporter

Albertine Laurel (Swanson) Dwyer

Rehoboth

Seekonk

Kurt A. Schnabel, age 58, of Rehoboth, MA, formerly of Barrington, RI, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, April 3, 2020 after being diagnosed with glioblastoma (GBM) brain cancer in 2017.

Albert Vasconcellos, 91 of Seekonk, passed away peacefully at home. Surrounded by his family on March 16, 2020.

Cathy Lee Carey, age 59, of Rehoboth, passed away on Thursday, April 16, 2020 at Sturdy Memorial Hospital in Attleboro.

Albertine Laurel (Swanson) Dwyer N. Dighton — Albertine Laurel (Swanson) Dwyer, 92, of North Dighton passed away on Thursday, April 16, 2020 at the Life Care Center of Raynham. She was the beloved wife of the late John Dwyer II. Albertine was born in Taunton; she was the daughter of the late Hubert L. And Alice L. (Davis) Swanson. She was a graduate of Taunton High School Class of 1946, and went on to graduate from Morton Hospitals Registered Nurse program. Mrs. Dwyer worked as the school nurse at Dighton-Rehoboth Hospital, as well as an RN at Taunton State Hospital, and Morton Hospital. Always keeping busy; Albertine was a police officer with the Dighton Police Department, a member of St. John Church Choir, and was a member of the Dighton Flower Club. Mrs. Dwyer was a talented artist, enjoyed watching the Patriots football games, reading, doing crossword puzzles, and watching the wide variety of wildlife in her backyard. Over the years she earned several nicknames; Al, Tina, and was affectionately known as Albertine Blue Eyes at the Life Care Center. She always had a great sense of humor and was always willing to share a good laugh. She is survived by her daughters; Martha M. Dwyer and her husband James of North Dighton, Susan A. Sprout and her husband Warren of North Dighton, and Allison L. Willard and her husband E. Thomas Willard of South Carolina, sons; John L. Dwyer III of Maine, and Hugh L. Dwyer of Rehoboth, four grandchildren; Brendan, Bethany, Benjamin and Evan, and one brother; Lyle Swanson and his wife Kathleen of New Hampshire. She was predeceased by her sister Lyla Vernazza. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date once restrictions have been lifted. Arrangements entrusted to the care of the Crapo-Hathaway Funeral Home, Taunton.

Alan P. Messier, 66, of Rehoboth, passed away after a brief illness surrounded by his family on Sunday, April 19, 2020 at the HopeHealth Hulitar Hospice Center in Providence, RI.

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

Rose M. (Palana) O’Brien, of Sykes Road, Seekonk, MA, wife of William H. O’Brien, Jr. and daughter of the late Frank and Angelina (D’Amico) Palana, passed away on Sunday, April 12, 2020 at the home of her daughter, Patricia Moore in Williston, VT. Eleanor M. (Hirsch) Choate, 88, of Seekonk, MA, died peacefully on April 13, 2020 at the Hattie Ide Chaffee Home, East Providence.

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

Competent Concern When the Need Arises Affordable Funeral & Cremation Services regardless of financial circumstance Pre-Planning Specialists Proudly serving Rehoboth & Seekonk families since 1898 Andrew J. Correia, MBIE; President/Funeral Director & Embalmer

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

The Reporter May 2020

CLASSIFIEDS

Place Classified ads at www.ReporterToday.com

FOR RENT

WANTED Civil War, WW1, WW2, Anything to do with military; helmets, knives, uniforms, guns, HAVE (license), anything related to wartime, will pay cash for items, ask for Charles, call 508-230-6444; call anytime thanks WE BUY COIN COLLECTIONS! Coin Dealer:Buying Old Coins Silver Coins Gold Coins Coin Collections Costume Jewelry Coin collections & Old Money. Call the Golden Goose 774 526 4993. Paying CASH for Coins, Gold & Silver Jewelry, Flatware, Costume Jewelry, Antiques, Smalls, Old Toys, Gift Cards, Fishing Lures, Pre 1964 Coins, Oddities. Warren Exchange 175 Main Street in Warren (401)245-5001. Off Street Parking, Fair & Friendly. Wanted: Flower vases. Please donate. Call Debbie at 401-6323602. 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

Plants For Sale: Inside and outside; perennials, annuals, herbs, bushes, strawberry plants, ground cover & forsythia. Everything from $1 to $10. 401-433-2922.

Apartment for rent: East Providence, spacious one bedroom 1st floor with off-street parking, walking distance to bus line & many other conveniences. Kitchen with appliances, DR, LR, full bath. Available soon, excellent condition in a nice neighborhood. Rent $850/1st/last/security. No smoking or pets please. Call Jaime Simas @ 401-480-0374 or 508-336-8432.

PROPERTY FOR SALE Property for sale in Nova Scotia. Looking to start a business in the rapidly growing AgriTourism industry or a quiet place to build your retirement home? This would be the perfect spot, a beautiful property in Pembroke, Hants County, along the Minas Basin, home to the world's highest tides. This property consists of 3 PID's (all linked together): PID 45052388 zoned commercial has a 40' x 38' building, with two 11' x 11' overhead doors, 220 electrical on 3/4 acre. Building does require a lot of TLC, two dug wells on the property. PID's: 45173572 and 45173549 both zoned residential, for a total of 26 acres. Only 2 miles from 9 hole golf course, and 1 hour to Halifax. Asking $69,800 USD. Willing to sell separately as well. 3/4 acre with Building $28,900 USD. Two PIDS (26 acres) $40,900 USD. Call Sherry or Gordie at 613-884-9113 or email at: sherrymacaskillbrand@gmail.com.

VACATION RENTALS

E N E RG I E S

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er y www.alsqualityoil.net

VACATION - HONEYMOON RENTAL: St. Michael, Azores Ponta Graca (Portugal). Pristine 2 bed, 2 bath apartment with kitchen, DR, LR & laundry. Linens provided. Majestic Atlantic and mountain views from spacious deck. Near golf courses, beaches, and more. $525 Weekly. Time is money, must act now. Call 401-480-0374 or 508-336-8432.

GENERAL SERVICES

JUNK REMOVAL: Junk Removal for the entire South Shore, MA area. Junk Removal for the entire state of Rhode Island. Ryan's Junk Truck will quickly remove your junk, donate what we can, and recycle whatever is left over. Emergency services available for time sensitive projects such as a house renovation, deadline approaching for moving or closing, and any situation you may find yourself in. I'm ready to answer YOUR questions. Call 508463-6150. #1 Junk Removal Service in South Shore MA. #1 in Value for Junk Removal in Rhode Island. #1 in Customer Service for Junk Removal. http://www.RyansJunkTruck.com. Call Now. 508-463-6150. YES we take construction debris, Pianos, hot tubs, Boats, trailers, tractors, cardboard boxes, trash debris and rubbish. Ryan's Junk Truck will take it all. It'll go. BIG BLUE REMOVAL SERVICE: Attic, Cellar, Total House. We take everything! Furniture, Brush, Appliances, Yard Waste, Construction Debris, Trash…Demolition of Fences, Sheds, Decks, Pools. Let us do the work. Free Estimates. Call Tony 508-226-1295; www.BigBlueRemoval.com.

May 2020 The Reporter

Business Directory CATEGORY

COMPANY NAME

Art Supplies/Framing Attorney Attorney Attorney Auto Body Auto Body Auto Parts Auto Repairs Building Contractor Building Contractor Building Contractor Camp Camp Candidate - Seekonk Carpet Cleaning Carpet Cleaning Caterers Child Care Chimney Cleaning Chimney Services Cleaning Service Collectibles Credit Union Deli Dentist Dentist Dentist Dentist Dentist Electrician Electrician Farm

PAGE

Gregory D. Dorrance, Co. 49 Laurie P. Mullen, Attorney 51 Law Office of Luke P. Travis 34 Stephen E. Navega 23 A-1 Custom Auto Body 9 Tri Star Autobody 33 NorthEastern Auto Supply 44 New England Tire 3 A.M. Carpentry 29 M.G. Salois Construction 22 Nerney Construction 45 Camp Ramsbottom 61 The Providence Country Day School 61 Adam Petronio 8 Earle’s Carpet Cleaning 42 M & S Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning 49 Young’s Caterers, Inc. 47 Twin Oaks Farm Learning Center 56 RD Chimney Sweep 32 Kenny’s Masonry & Chimney Sweep 48 Debbie’s Cleaning Service 30 Wexler’s Collectibles 31 Community & Teachers Credit Union 28 The Italian Corner 46 Coastal Dental Seekonk 18 David C. Zaluski, D.D.S. 29 Dr. Wassouf D.D.S. 20 George Family Orthodontics 8 Seekonk Dental 10 Greaves Electric 34 Neal Bellavance Electric 41 Osamequin Farm 27

Valter Rego Masonry Patios, Outdoor Kitchens, Retaining Walls, Stonewalls, Driveways, Steps, Walkways, Foundation Repairs, Basement Waterproofing, All Types of Cement Work Residential and Commercial Free estimates, no job too small

Call 401-781-2262 or 774-565-0579 www.valterregomasonry.net Licensed & Insured

CATEGORY Farm Feed & Garden Store Fence Installation Flooring - All Types Flooring - Wood Fuel - Oil Fuel - Oil Fuel - Oil Fuel - Propane Funeral Home Funeral Home Funeral Home Garden Center Garden Center Handyman Heating & Air Hospital Insurance Insurance Agency Insurance Agency Irrigation Junk Removal Junk Removal Kitchen/Bath Design Landscape Materials Landscape Service Landscape Service Landscape Service Landscape Service Landscape Service Landscape Service Landscape Service

COMPANY NAME

PAGE

Souza Family Farm Bay State Pet & Garden Supply Fence Tech Earle Dias Interiors David J. Ledoux Hardwood Floors Al’s Quality Oil Co. COD OIL E & V Oil Co. Dupuis Oil J.H. Williams & Co. Funeral Home Silva Funeral Home William W. Tripp Funeral Home Little Tree Nursery Under the Sun Farm American Eagle Entertrises, LLC Taylor Heating and Air Conditioning Sturdy Memorial Hospital Metlife Auto and Home Frazao Insurance The Agency Paiva Lisco Irrigation AOL Enterprises Ryan’s Junk Truck Infinity Kitchens J&J Materials Green Care Landscaping Holden’s Landscaping Kimmell Landscaping Landscaping Services Oakhill Landscape Ouellette Landscaping Superior Lawn Care

Sanitation Inc. e m o o r C

Commercial

Quick Radio Dispatch Service

26 14 30 40 23 66 48 72 12 65 65 62 60 27 11 54 13 10 17 64 9 23 70 11 4 72 40 17 50 43 12 7

Residential

Quality Service Since 1962

Septic Tanks & Cesspools Vacuum Cleaned • Sewer Rooter Service

508-252-4668 • 508-336-7024 Rehoboth, MA  

www.croomesanitation.com

The Reporter May 2020

Business Directory CATEGORY

COMPANY NAME

PAGE

Landscape Service T. Moreshead Landscaping 44 Liquor Store Regency Liquors 25 Marble Fabricators Star Marble & Granite 51 Masonry-Construction StoneScapes - Mark Carvalho 39 Masonry-Construction Valter Rego Masonry 67 Masonry-Construction Welshman Landscaping & Const 32 Masonry-Construction William Gallant, Jr. Masonry Services 42 Meal Delivery Feast & Fettle 46 Mosquito & Tick Control ohDEER 16 Orthodontics George Family Orthodontics 8 Painting Contractor Advantage Painting 43 Painting Contractor Cronan Painting 41 Painting Contractor EZ Painting 68 Painting Contractor Iachetti Painting Company 31 Painting Contractor Lundco Painting LLC. 49 Paving Contractor All Phase Asphalt Driveways 45 Paving Contractor Mohegan Seal Coating Co 29 Paving Contractor Ryan Asphalt Paving 28 Pest Control Services Bi-State Pest Control 40 Pest Control Services Lincoln Pest & Property Solutions 7 Pharmacy Simpson’s Pharmacy, Inc 22 Physical Therapy Personal Best Physical Therapy 63 Plastering & Painting David Laurino - Plastering 44 Plumbing & Heating Sine Plumbing & Heating 39 Plumbing & Heating Vintage Plumbing & Heating 19 Powerwashing East Bay Pressure Wash 41 Private School Bishop Hendricken High School 57 Private School American Sign Language Academy 60 Private School The Providence Country Day School 55 Real Estate Aubin Realty 33 Real Estate Century 21 - David Smith 19 Real Estate ReMax Rivers Edge Agents 69 Real Estate Robert DaRocha, Realtor 72 Real Estate TK Real Estate Brokerage 48 Real Estate Vicki Doran 15 Remodeling Batty Construction 51 Restaurant Boneyard Barbecue & Saloon 38

Title 5 Inspection

$25

• Voluntary Assessments * Not affiliated & Consulting Discount with any on Title V • Septic Systems septic system installation or Inspection • Cesspools pumping co.

Professional Inspection Services - Est.1995 -

Call Steven Drew • 508-667-4025 MassDEP Approved Title 5 Inspector

No Mess! We Hand-Dig

Commercial & Residential

Year-Round Service

CATEGORY Restaurant Restaurant Restaurant Restaurant Restaurant Restaurant Restaurant Restaurant Restaurant Restaurant Restaurant Restaurant Restaurant Restaurant Restaurant-Pizza Roofing Contractor Roofing Contractor Roofing Contractor RVs and Campers Seafood Market Seafood Market Security Systems Septic Inspections Septic Systems Septic Systems Septic Systems Septic Systems Septic Systems Trash/Junk Removal Tree Service Tree Service Tree Service Tree Service Tree Service Water Treatment Water Treatment Wells & Sump Pumps

COMPANY NAME Chelo’s Country Kitchen EATS Restaurant Harvest Market iAlive Restaurant K.P. Grill La Collina Lemon & Oil Deli Madeira Restaurant Miller’s Roast Beef Mizu Asian Bistro & Sushi Rehoboth House Of Pizza Union Burrito Vino’s Family Cafe Uncle Tony’s Pizza B & R Fournier Construction, Inc. Ferreira Co. Tabeleys Roofing Camping World of Berkley Digger’s Catch Portside Fish Market, LLC Home & Commercial Security Pro Inspection Services Bay State Sewage Croome Bros. Sanitation, Inc. Fisk Contracting Co. Soares Sanitation Pumping, Inc. Town Sanitation Big Blue Removal Service Carlson Tree Service Choate Tree Service Heritage Tree & Arborist Mann’s Tree Service Seekonk Tree Service Olde Colony Clean Water. Inc Water Filter Company, Inc. Vintage Plumbing & Heating

PAGE 47 46 46 47 36 35 35 46 46 46 47 47 47 46 47 50 2 52 71 32 38 39 68 50 67 52 34 31 24 40 53 43 15 28 16 21 19

May 2020 The Reporter

8 Dover Ave, East Providence, RI 02914

Congratulations to the class of 2020! Best wishes on your next adventure.

Patty Bain 401-965-4822 pattybain@remax.net

Lisa Halajko 774-991-0052 lisahalajko@gmail.com

Debra Donahue 401-419-4165 debradonahue@remax.net

Robin Lozito 401-486-6937 robinlozito@remax.net

Jeanne Derham 508-942-8567 jeannederham@gmail.com

Missie Rose 508-826-9966 rhodymoves@gmail.com

The Reporter May 2020

Call 508-463-6150 or 774-226-0908

May 2020 The Reporter

America's #1 RV DEALER

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137 Myricks St. in BERKLEY, MA | 508.923.7084 | CampingWorld.com ^Based on Statistical Surveys 2018. *Camping World RV Sales prices and payments are not inclusive of tax, title, license, prep and dealer doc fees. Payments available to qualified buyers based on lender credit qualifications. Subject to lender terms. See dealer for details. © 2020 FreedomRoads, LLC. The CAMPING WORLD logo is a registered trademark of CWI, Inc. and used with permission. Unauthorized use of any ofCWI, Inc.’s trademarks is expressly prohibited. All rights reserved. Offers expire 5/31/20. BOS22571-0420

The Reporter May 2020

The Reporter P.O. Box 170 Rehoboth, MA 02769

24 HOURS

7 D AY S A W E E K

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2500 GAR HIGHWAY, SWANSEA MA MASTER MA RI LICENSED

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GreenCare

DaRocha

Landscaping,

Real Estate Group

Inc.

“Planting Today for a Better Tomorrow!”

GROUNDS CARE & LAWN CARE

SPRING IS HERE! RATES ARE LOW!

THE TIME TO BUY/SELL IS NOW! Want toGreat Know the Value of Your Home? Time to Buy or Sell this

Call for a FREE Comparative Market Analysis. andAppeal Summer! We will give Spring you Curb Assessment & Staging Design Tips To Make Your Home Stand Out!

Bob DaRocha, REALTOR

ABR, SFR, SRES Licensed in RI & MA bobrealtor7@gmail.com Eu Falo Portugues Office: 508-252-6952 Cell: 774-451-4603

www.BobRealtor.com

Commercial & Residential Properties

LANDSCAPE PLANTINGS & DESIGN HARDSCAPING (WALLS, PATIOS & WALKWAYS) IRRIGATION, HYDRO-SEEDING & MORE!

227 Plain Street, Route 118 Rehoboth, MA (5 Minitues from Swansea Mall) Email: greencarema@gmail.com Visit Our Website at www.GreenCareMa.com

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TREES, SHRUBS & PERENNIALS for our Landscape & Design Customers

(508) 252-6912