March 2018 Seekonk Reporter by The Reporter

The Seekonk

Reporter

MARCH 2018 Volume 30, no. 3

FREE

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

Reminder

Annual town election will be held Monday, April 2nd. Polls will be open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Vote at Seekonk High School, 261 Arcade Ave. Read about the candidates on pg. 33

Hoots wants you to Save the Date for the

31st Annual “Save A Pet” see page 42

Spring Home & Garden see page 47

Don’t Miss the 22nd Taste of the Towns Tuesday, March 6th see page 41

2 The Reporter March 2018

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March 2018 The Reporter

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4 The Reporter March 2018

The Rehoboth/Seekonk

Reporter

Town of Seekonk News Notes by Laura Calverley

P.O. Box 170 Rehoboth, MA 02769

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

Annual Town Election to be Held April 2nd

We reserve the right to refuse any submission, including classified/display advertising.

The Annual Town Election will be held on Monday, April 2, 2018 with the polls open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Voting will be held at Seekonk High School, 261 Arcade Ave. There will be three contested races: board of selectmen, school committee and water commission. For profiles of the candidates, see election articles in this issue.

All News Items must be submitted by the 25th of the month

Portable Classrooms will be Put at Elementary Schools Next Fall

It MUST INCLUDE the name and phone number of the sender. The Reporter is MAILED FREE TO THE TOWNS OF REHOBOTH AND SEEKONK twelve months a year. Subscriptions are available outside our distribution area.

Subscription Rate: $35 for 1 year

Display Advertising Sales Call 508-252-6575 Published by:

Target Marketing Group, Inc. Dick Georgia - Executive Editor

Advertising Dustin Oerman Lori Weinacker

The school committee has decided to place modular classrooms at Aitken and Martin Elementary Schools next fall to accommodate an increase in student enrollment, according to an article in the Sun Chronicle. The committee reviewed several proposals to ease overcrowding, which included moving the fifth grade to the middle school and moving the eighth grade to the high school. However, most respondents in a survey that was conducted said they did not want to reorganize the grades. The committee also approved a feasibility study on a possible addition to Aitken School. Residents will vote on the feasibility study at the May town meeting.

Town Counsel Confirms Legality of Selectmen Vote

Town counsel confirmed that a vote taken by the board of selectmen last year to transfer control of town-owned land to the Library Board of Trustees was indeed legal, according to a Sun Chronicle article. Town meeting in May 2010 authorized selectmen to make the transfer. Town resident and member of the veterans’ memorial committee Doreen Taylor had questioned the legality of the vote, saying that it should have been put on the ballot. Selectmen referred the issue to town counsel, who said it was legal and didn’t need to go on the ballot. The Library Board of Trustees designated a portion of the land for the Veteran’s Memorial and a howitzer gun that was placed next to the memorial has created controversy in town. Voters will decide at the April election whether the howitzer should remain where it is or be moved.

Feature Writers Susan Boucher Laura Calverly Leslie Patterson Director of Advertising & Graphics Michaela Oerman Graphics & Marketing Keri Cote Special Thanks To: Lori Anderson TCI Press Photographers David Andrade Norm Spring

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.

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March 2018 The Reporter

School Department Begins Superintendent Search

The school committee is putting together a search committee to look for a replacement for Superintendent Arlene Bosco who announced last month that she will be retiring in August. Committee member Beth Eklund will chair the search committee.

Seekonk Animal Shelter News

What’s happening at the Seekonk Animal Shelter? We are holding a Rabies Clinic for cats, dogs, and ferrets on March 10th from 9-12 at DPW on 871 Taunton Ave, Seekonk. Be sure to bring your current valid rabies certificate so you can receive a 3-year vaccine if eligible. Plans are being finalized for our 31st Save A Pet Charity Auction, which is being held from 6:30-10pm each evening April 10-12th at the Ramada Inn, 213 Taunton Ave, Seekonk. Our staff and volunteers have been working with some of our more shy kitties to get them ready for adoption….they need a little help realizing the benefits of trusting people and having a new loving home. Our handsome Caleb (pictured here) is a perfect example of this; he is an orange and white male kitty who is a little over a year old and he enjoys playing with the other cats, but he does not like to be pet or picked up. New cats and dogs arrive frequently so please check in with us regularly if you are interested in adopting! Visit us at 100 Peck Street or call 508336-6663. More information about our events and pets can be found on www. SeekonkSaveAPet.org, or visit our Facebook pages “Friends of Seekonk Animal Shelter” or “Seekonk Save a Pet”.

Inside This Issue

Antiquarian Society....................52 Business Directory......................93 Church News/Events................66 Classifieds...............................92 Club Announcements.................53 Dining Guide...............................91 Engagements.........................49 Events and Activities...................41 Letters to the Editor.......................6 Library......................................62 My Two Cents............................31 Obituaries................................88 People....................................60 Rehoboth 375th Celebration.......46 Rehoboth Council on Aging.......81 Rehoboth Ramblings...............23 Rehoboth Town News...............24 Scouts..................................56 Seekonk Human Services..........84 Seekonk Town News...................37 School......................................70 Sports....................................58 Spring Home & Garden..............47 State House................................57 The View from My Hill.................36

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6 The Reporter March 2018

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 20th 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

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The Truth about Memorials and the Presence of Weapons of War

Although you will occasionally find a community with a Howitzer cannon located at a roadside intersection, a VFW or American Legion Post, it is very rare that you will find one on the same grounds as an inscribed memorial with the names of those killed or missing in action. I understand the visual connection some make for the association; war and weapon. That is not the association I make. I focus on the honor, respect and quiet, prayerful thought that is deserving of those who sacrificed their lives. Nearby, in the town of Norton, the names of veterans are listed individually on a memorial situated at the intersection of routes 123 and 140 at Library Square, across from the town’s old brick library and opposite the Unitarian Church. The triangle shaped area, surrounded by a green iron fence has three large monument stones, two marble, each with a large plaque for WW I and WW II and lists the names of those killed or missing in action bracketed above the names of those that served in each war. A third, dark granite monument has a large plaque on each side; one for the Korean War and one for the Vietnam War and similarly lists the names of those killed or missing in action above the names of those who served. Although there is a Howitzer in the town of Norton, it is not included anywhere near the memorials with the names of those who were killed. continued on page 8...

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8 The Reporter March 2018 A weapon of war does not exist among the Attleboro, Woburn,Weymouth, Springfield or Worcester memorials. A Opening SEPTEMBER 1STweapon , 2016 of war does not exist among the many memorials of Locally owned by your Pharmacists:Boston, including those at the Fens and South Boston. Finally, ST, 2016 Washington D.C. there is no weapon of war at any memorial Opening SEPTEMBER Erik Johnson RPh. 1 in site. In fact, it is the 58,318 names on the wall of the Vietnam Ages 9 & up and Locally owned by your Pharmacists: Memorial that makes it so emotionally impactful. Richard Ploude RPh. (774) 901-2445 Erik Johnson RPh. Seekonk has a statement it can be proud of just the way it At Anawan Pharmacy, here are some of the things we can and is, located along the major north-south route through town. It do for you: 224 WinthropRichard Street Ploude RPh. (774) 901-2445  Fill your prescription medications. We accept all doesn’t need any embellishments. It doesn’t need to display At Anawan Pharmacy, are some of the things we can Rehoboth, MA here 02769 major prescription plans any ‘tools’ of war in some attempt to teach history. It is perfectly do for you: 224 Winthrop Streetfor both your prescription Provide Home Delivery complete. Let’s hope we never have to add another name.  Fill your prescription medications. We accept all AND general store purchases Lauren C. Walsh Rehoboth, MA 02769 major prescription plans  Flavor your medication with our flavoring system (for

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been forever changed. This Memorial, dedicated on May 28, 2016 to all of those men and women from Seekonk who have served in the Armed Forces of the United States of America in the past, present and the future, during war and peace. This Memorial shall serve as a reminder to all of us that “freedom is not free.”” COMMENT: Preserve “Honor, Dignity and respect. “ What better location in Seekonk could have been chosen than at the present location? The committee met the objective of the mission statement and I say “EXCELLENT JOB .” We must remember that this memorial must continue to have a peaceful, somber, and restful atmosphere . This is not the place to locate a weapon of war. Weapons are part of military history, but they belong in or near museums, not at memorial walls. Please keep it as it is and vote not to place the Howitzer at this memorial. Bob Blanchard (Veteran, US Army).

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To All Seekonk Residents:

I am writing this to address the placing of the Howitzer gun at the Seekonk Veterans War Memorial at the Seekonk Public Library. The Veterans Memorial is very well designed, dignified and solemn setting. It is a tribute to all Seekonk veterans of all wars and conflicts who came forward, took time out of their lives and did their duty and served their country. Unfortunately, they paid the ultimate sacrifice for their service. They were protecting the rights and freedom of all Americans and everything America stands for. I think placing the Howitzer gun there will be taking away from the somber atmosphere that this Memorial has now. The Memorial’s existing surroundings – the granite wall, flowers and benches- make it a place where we can sit, remember and reflect on the fallen, and I think this should not be changed. Therefore, I oppose putting the Howitzer gun at that location. I feel there are many other suitable locations for this artifact of war to be placed. continued on page 10...

March 2018 The Reporter

Honoring those Seekonk residents that gave the ultimate sacrifice WW I Charles Moreau WW II Harold Larrabee, Bernard Going, Donia Michaud, Bernard Berthiaume, Anthony Korkuc, Kemper Atwater, Paul Barron, Milton Dupouy, Albert Swenson, Raymond Peck, Emerson Chaffee, Ralph King, Russell Blomstrom, Archie Fiero, John Connolly Jr., Anthony Kropis, Arthur Monroe Korean War Robert Hall, Robert Malloy Vietnam War Frederic Chesebrough, Paul Murphy, David Cloutier Iraq War Eric Valdapenas

Preserve the Memorial to provide peace, dignity and reflection.

10 The Reporter March 2018 In the April town election there will be a ballot question on this subject. I ask you to consider the above and vote not to have the Howitzer gun placed at this Memorial. As a Veitnam veteran, I feel we should focus on remembering all those Seekonk veterans who gave their lives to help preserve the freedom and opportunities that America is about. Sincerely, Sgt. Armand E. Perreault, United States Marine Corps March 1967-March 1971, Vietnam Veteran

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March 2018 The Reporter check made out to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, c/o Cathy Edington, 61 Reservoir Ave, Rehoboth, MA 02769. Also, if there is a loved one whose name you would like me to wear on my race shirt (either in memory of or in honor of), I am happy to do so. That is what fuels me during the long miles! Thanks for all your love, encouragement, support, and prayers! I am truly humbled. Sincerely, Cathy Edington

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Last month an article appeared on my voting record and attendance at selectmen’s meetings executive sessions on union wage issues. In response to those charges I would state the following: When I first ran 9 years ago I stated that I would not be voting on union wage issues as I have family employed by the town. The law actually allows me to vote if I wish however reminded me that sometimes the appearance of a violation is just as bad as an actual violation and advised me not to with family employed by the town. I made it clear that I would not vote on those issues. Three years later when I reran for selectman it came up again and again I stated my intent to not vote on union pay issues. Three years ago it came up again –same story. The voters have elected me three times with that approach and hopefully will again as I will not vote on them going forward. There never has been a quorum issue in 10 years or a two to two tie as some would warn about. I would vote in those cases so it will never happen as some would suggest. I have voted on every other issue in public and executive session and have missed only one meeting in the last three years and less than three meetings in nine years-In summary—the voters have trusted and supported me for 9 years under the same approach and I’m not sure why it is such a huge issue this year except those who raise it support my opponent. If you want me voting on pay issues that may affect my family don’t vote for me as I will not do it if elected-Dave Parker Selectman

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The Facts about Greenbrier

I’m beginning this article with an open invitation to anyone that would like a tour of Greenbrier any time at your convenience. I won’t give you a canned tour I’ll take you anywhere you want to go and answer any questions posed. Personally, I don’t have a Facebook page, so I’m responding to what has been told to me about the misconceptions, lies and slander about Greenbrier and Mr. Tapalian that are spread on Konk Konnect. I’ve lived at Greenbrier for almost two years and have never saw one rat. I see lots of Canada Geese, some rare waterfowl and dogs. In fact I saw more field mice at the house we owned because it backed up to woods, but have never even seen a field mouse here. The only traffic issues happen when trying to leave Greenbrier and get on to Rt. 114, but that cars coming off of 195 and heading into Luther’s Corner, not into Greenbrier, cause traffic. In fact, I’ve never been in traffic leaving Greenbrier. In other words there has never been a car in front of me as I was waiting to get on to Rt. 114. Simply put there aren’t cars speeding around Greenbrier. People that are concerned with traffic are suggesting that we put a market, Garden City type retail, Wegmans, or another big box store at the old Showcase Cinemas and think that won’t cause traffic. Dumpsters aren’t overflowing and abutting neighbors property. That is an outright lie. Again, drive thru here and see for yourself. Is Greenbrier perfect? No. But neither are the homes you live in, or the home I lived in. Everything has its blemishes and can be made better. But to hear the lies and absurd slander about a place that has filled a niche in Seekonk that many residents are thankful for is sickening. Many seniors that could no longer afford, or handle their homes yet wanted to stay in Seekonk to be near their grandchildren are living here. One of the buildings here, that has 45 apartments in it, is for 55 and older only. I hardly think they’re whizzing around the neighboring streets, or impacting our schools. We lived on Cole Street for a few years. Cole Street, unfortunately, was and will Continued on next page....

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12 The Reporter March 2018 always be a cut thru, but not due to Greenbrier. That is the chief reason that Cole Street experiences a lot of traffic, because people want to avoid the mess at Luther’s Corner and all of the traffic lights caused by Retail outlets, which again is not caused by Greenbrier. Rt. 6 has more traffic and is designed in such a way that you have to stop at several traffic lights in order to turn around, yet no one criticizes the monstrosity of a traffic mess that all those retail stores cause. Many families that were broken up due to divorce and didn’t want have to move to another city, or town and have to pull their children out of Seekonk, live here. Young families that didn’t have the down payment for a home and wanted their children to attend Seekonk Schools live here. I remember attending a Quad Board meeting 8 years ago in Seekonk and one woman that served on one of the boards stated that Greenbrier would bring in 1,500 to 2,000 additional children into Seekonk Schools. Now 8 years later and 90% filled Greenbrier has added a total of 55 kids to our school system. People really need to rely on facts instead of gut reaction. Greenbrier plows it’s own streets, handles it’s own trash, takes care of it’s effluent issues with it’s own sewer treatment plant, which by the way has zero impact on Seekonk’s environment. In fact your homes have more negative impact on the environment than Greenbrier. Greenbrier provides almost a million dollars in taxes every year to Seekonk while asking little, if any, of the town’s services. By the way why doesn’t anyone criticize the development that the Darling’s created in Seekonk? You know that lovely go-kart center and all of those retail buildings hotels, etc. that really impact traffic and town services? Mr. Tapalian offered to build a senior center, animal shelter, veteran’s memorial and was rejected. He understood that building a municipal edifice requires prevailing wage and interference from state agencies that drive the cost of building through the roof. As I remember there weren’t any strings attached to any of his offers. He’s a senior citizen and understood that seniors wanted a place to be with other seniors. And he got frustrated at the length of time and bickering that took place over building a center for our seniors. His love and passion for all animals caused him to offer to build an animal shelter. He also was upset at how the veterans were being treated as they tried to build a memorial honoring those that gave the ultimate sacrifice so that we would be able to enjoy free speech and yes even unwarranted remarks toward him and his business. Mr. Tapalian is hardly perfect as are none of us, but he’s hardly the ogre that is portrayed on Konk Konnect. Those people on Konk Konnect that criticize his children ought to be ashamed of themselves. Children are off limits. None of you would stand for your child to be criticized – so to those that sink to that level I ask that you stop. Mr. Tapalian has never filed bankruptcy on a development as other developers in Seekonk have done leaving people hanging. He’s always delivered exactly as planned.

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We moved to Greenbrier because our children had moved away to their careers in different states and we found ourselves living in three rooms in our home. Being the lazy person that I am I no longer wanted to deal with lawn care or the upkeep of a house so Greenbrier was a welcomed alternative. While I absolutely dislike New England weather and it’s politics I love Seekonk. I’m not going to pretend that Mr. Tapalian is some perfect person, but I will say that he’s NOT the person often portrayed by people that don’t know him. He’s a friend, someone I work for part time and the most accessible multi-millionaire that I’ve ever met. He’s more than willing to work with anyone that takes the time to meet him half way. Yes he can be brash, outspoken and seemingly tough. But he’s one of those few people that won’t walk, head held high, by something that he can stop and take the time to help. And Greenbrier is NOT the place that has been portrayed on Konk Konnect. Take the time to know the facts, before spewing falsehoods and slander. Greenbrier fills a need and niche that towns need. A lot of people, more than you think, are grateful that they can continue living in Seekonk to be close to their families. Many are grateful that having hit hard times they can still live in a safe community like Seekonk. David Saad Seekonk, MA

It’s Seekonk!

Where would we be without controversy? Sometimes I think we live for it. It’s bad enough the Federal level of Government has us scratching our heads, but Local Government seems to be no different. On 2/19, the Director of the Seekonk Public Library issued a public statement through social media. What this addressed was full of inaccuracies and assumptions based on what if’s and maybe will’s. He tore down the Board of Selectmen and the Seekonk Veterans Memorial Committee without hesitation. Did he make valid inquiries before starting this fire? No, he did not. Truth be told, this all began, of course with me questioning the Board of Selectmen at their open meeting on 2/7. I asked them if the 2010 Warrant Article giving custody, management and control of a neighborhood sized parcel of land to the Library Trustees was 1. Legally Presented and 2. Should it have been a ballot question? As owned by the Town I wondered, what is the town getting out of this? Why wouldn’t this have been considered important enough to be a ballot question by the 2010 Board of Selectmen? Mr. Parker thought enough to propose asking Counsel. The Selectmen announced at their meeting of 2/21 that Counsel has said it was legal. I have asked for a copy of this written opinion. As of this writing I haven’t received it but I’m confident I will to ensure both my questions were asked and answered. If not, I will continue researching. No one is “jeopardizing” the future of the Library. What I am intending is to protect countless hours of work by volunteers, committee people and donors who chose to support the building of the Veterans Memorial. The project moved forward with the Library Trustees blessing. Little did we realize that there were conditions besides communications as a caveat’. Many many Selectmen meetings in the past year have included orchestrated speeches by the Chairman of the Trustees. How his concern is “his” patrons. Now the Director feels it necessary to join in the bullying session as we try to do anything relative to the Memorial. So much so, a ballot question to place an historical military artifact is open for vote on election day. Everything is about the Library. As if they don’t already have enough property. So, if the Trustees tell us to destroy the Memorial to make room for a new Library are we supposed to abide by that? The bigger question is why did they give their blessing if they intend to harass every move? All in the name of the Public Library? All in the name of power and authority?

March 2018 The Reporter On 2/20, the Director of the Library posted a “correction” to social media. He addressed it to “Dear Friends of the Seekonk Public Library”. There are lots of words but no apology to the Board of Selectmen or the Veterans Memorial Committee or even the inclusion of the entire community. To me this speaks volumes. Thank you Doreen Taylor

Candidate for Water Commissioner

I am running for the Seekonk Board of Water Commissioners in this April 2nd Election. I am running because I want to add a fiscally responsible perspective to the board of water commissioners and I want to be a voice for the ratepayers of Seekonk. The water department in Seekonk is unique in the sense that it is a separately chartered government entity from the rest of the town. The water department doesn’t get the operating budget from the taxpayers of Seekonk but rather from the water bills collected from its customers. I believe that the best way to keep our ratepayers paying a fair rate for the water that it uses, while keeping Seekonk’s drinking water safe and clean is a pro-active and fiscally responsible approach. I would consider it an honor to replace the now retired and longtime chairman and devoted commissioner, Robert Fuller. I feel that I can instill the same principles and values into the water department that he has done so well for so many years, while offering my own perspective and expertise. I respectfully ask for your vote for Water Commissioner this Monday April, 2nd. Together we can keep Seekonk’s drinking water tasty, clean and safe for our children, parents and grandparents. Thank you, Jeffrey Mararian Seekonk Resident and Candidate for Water Commissioner

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Candidate for Water Commissioner

My name is David M. Melo and I am running for a seat on the Board of Water Commissioners. I have been a resident of Seekonk since 1999, am married and the father of two children. Currently I am employed by the City of East Providence Water Utilities Division. I have been with the Water Utilities Division since 1997 where I was first hired as a laborer. Over the years, I worked my way up the ranks until finally in 2003 I became a Labor Supervisor. I have received and maintained licenses in Water Distribution (3D), Water Treatment (1T), Water Surveyor and a certified backflow tester. I feel that my experience and knowledge with the Water Utilities Division in East Providence would bring a positive addition to the Board of Water Commissioners in Seekonk. Come April the voters of Seekonk will have the opportunity to choose from two candidates for Water Commissioner. I hope that the people of Seekonk will give me the chance to serve them in a positive way as Water Commissioner. Thank You, David M. Melo

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The Reporter March 2018

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Prediction

Within a year or so Hillary Clinton will be the target of an FBI/ justice dept. regarding surveillance powers during the campaign, dishonesty when applying for FISA warrants e-mailing of “classified info”, donations to the “Clinton foundation”, fraud in front of the FISA court, Benghazi (ms) incident,$$to GPS fusion to create the infamous “dossier”(to spy on the Trump team)the incidents involving the FBI/DOJ are difficult to navigate because high rankers are democrats and like all other democrats the main object is to obstruct/confuse /prevent.ie government shutdown so our service people got delayed paychecks, withhold many bills now in the senate for vote and remain there because smuckie chuckie and the crumb lady fancy Nancy Pelosi will NOT authorize them to be brought up for final passage. Some things Dems did not stand up for during the state of the union speech while being dressed in black, frowning faces, and refusing to stand, hissing etc. I was taught to respect even if i did not agree. The Dems do what they please and blame others after. They (Dems) chose NOT to rise for a few items like border security, fighting opioids, bonus for Americans low unemployment, merit based immigrants, Jerusalem (ms) as Israel’s capital, millions of new jobs, stock market highs, the American flag, bonuses, rising wages lower taxes, tax refund, return of industrial companies to America, bonuses handed out to employees etc. are these the “crumbs Nancy Pelosi refers to?? I suggest if you are unhappy with your “crumbs” you send them to me. Such a sad depressing issue when two fractions Dem/Rep cannot get along and have play the events like a sport issue each hoping to win. Well guess what we all know who the losers are, you and I. We need to inform some of these imposters the time has come to wish you a happy retirement. Please go away. Right Nancy .Chuck and Liz?? P .Sharp/Rehoboth

Comment to Gerry Schwall Rehoboth B.O.S.

Regarding the deplorable condition of the town office and public safety bldg. and the recent fault repl condition reports for both. Gerry we have been here before, just so there is no misunderstanding-I agree 100% with M .Diegans comments regarding our dumps. if funds in any form large or small or spent on either facility that’s it. One time or no time. Either fix em or replace em one or the other NOT BOTH!!!My personal preference is replace, they are not worth fixing. P. Sharp/Rehoboth

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The Rehoboth Animal Advocates’ Pasta Dinner on February 3rd was a tremendous success. The RAA wishes to thank all those who attended and/or donated to the event. The community came together for a good cause. It definitely was a fun night. Thank you to the Rehoboth Council on Aging for allowing the RAA use of the senior center. Thank you to Chef Chico Charbonneau and Chef Matt Geisler for donating their time and all their hard work. Food was excellent. Thank you to the Rehoboth Brownies, Troop 628, for the beautiful table centerpieces. A big thank you to the businesses who donated food and raffle prizes. The event could not have happened without your generosity. A list of the donors can be found on the RAA website. RehobothAnimalAdvocates.org Thank you and more fundraisers are in the works. Please look for us. Lorraine Botts, Member

March 2018 The Reporter

Rehoboth Annual Election is April 2nd by Laura Calverley

Five Candidates Running for Two Seats on Board of Selectmen

Five candidates are running for two seats on the board of selectmen in the upcoming town election on April 2. Incumbent Gerald Schwall, a Republican candidate, is running for his second term on the board. Michael Costello, who is also a Republican and a former selectman, is running for his third term. They will be facing three newcomers – Craig Chapman, Jonathan Clark and Antonio Oliveira. Chapman, a North Attleboro police officer, filed nomination papers last year, but withdrew from the race. Oliveira, a local businessman, is making his second bid for the board after losing the election last year. Clark is a newcomer to Rehoboth politics. Incumbent selectman Susan Pimental is not seeking re-election. Profiles of four of the candidates follow in alphabetical order. Clark did not get back to us before the paper went to print.

order to sustain the town’s buildings and services for the future. “We need to increase our incoming revenues so we can continue to support our operating budget, allowing us to properly invest back into our community and where we need it most. This will keep our residents, businesses, and employees here, instead of relocating to other communities,” Chapman said. Chapman says the town needs a new municipal center because the current town hall and public safety buildings are in disrepair. “We need a new municipal complex to provide a safe, healthy environment for our residents and employees for many years to come. The Town Offices, Fire Department, and Police Department

Craig Chapman

Craig Chapman, a police officer in North Attleboro for 24 years, is running for his first term on the board of selectman. He served in the U.S. Army MasCraig Chapman sachusetts National Guard for 27 years and was deployed three times (Afghanistan, Iraq, and Guantanamo Bay.) He has been Union President of the North Attleboro Patrol Officers Association for 11 years. He also serves on the town’s Personnel Board. Chapman is running because he wants to serve the town. “I want to be more directly involved in the community that I am raising my children in, as well as to be able to better understand and advocate for all our residents, businesses, and employees. My experiences and knowledge in the Military, Law Enforcement, and various elected and appointed positions give me a very diverse background to be able to approach and resolve issues in a positive and professional manner and provide a fresh perspective, which will be an asset to the Board and the town,” Chapman said. Chapman’s top priorities are to balance economic growth while maintaining Rehoboth’s rural character, and to increase incoming revenues. “We need to continue to work on balancing economic growth in a right to farm community. Rehoboth is a quaint and peaceful community with a nostalgic aura. These are some of the most attractive characteristics to anyone who knows Rehoboth. We don’t want those to be infringed upon. In doing so, this would also help to protect our precious resources such as our water supply, in an all well water community,” Chapman said. Chapman says the town needs to be creative and find new revenue streams in

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The Reporter March 2018

are all antiquated and in rough condition. They are on the brink of becoming a health risk and are in desperate need of replacement,” Chapman said. “It’s going to cost money to fix or repair. We need to invest in the town’s buildings because it will be less expensive now than it will be in the future and we will have buildings that will last another 50 years,” Chapman said. Chapman has not lived in Rehoboth very long, but his grandparents lived in town for 70 years and he often spent time here. “I may be a new resident, but my heart has been here a long time. This is where my heart is, with the town and the residents, and I want to do everything we can to keep the makeup of the town true to its roots,” Chapman said.

Michael Costello

Michael Costello, Highway Superintendent and former selectman, is running for his third term on the board. Costello, a Republican, says he is running because he wants to continue to serve the town he loves. “It’s my love for the town and the people who live here. I want to make sure the board continues in the direction it’s going,” Costello said. Michael Costello When Costello first became selectman, the atmosphere in town was divisive and Costello says he worked with the board to change that. “When I started on the board a few years ago, it was an explosive situation. We were able to reverse that. Residents are now able to approach selectmen with their issues and concerns much easier,” Costello said. Costello has confirmed that, if elected, he will be able to continue to serve as the town’s Highway Superintendent. Because selectman is an elected position and highway superintendent is an appointed position, Costello says he can do both. “If people in town feel I should serve as selectman again, there’s no problem at all. However, there is a rule that you cannot receive two paychecks. If I’m elected, I will have to forfeit the selectman’s compensation,” Costello says. Also, when a highway issue comes up before the board, Costello will excuse himself as a voting member and only provide information and answer questions on any highway business brought before the board. Costello’s top two priorities are updating the school department’s regional agreement and addressing the problems with the

town hall and public safety buildings, which he says are in “dire need of repair and/or replacement.” “It’s overdue for the regional agreement to be revised,” Costello said. A committee was established several years ago to revise the regional agreement, but the project is ongoing. Costello feels that better communication is needed between all the parties – the Dighton board of selectmen, Rehoboth selectmen and the D-R Regional School Committee. “Another reason I want to run is I feel that communication needs to be improved,” Costello said. “We need to be bipartisan and work together and get this resolved in the best interests of both towns. We can’t go to town meeting with a regional agreement if everyone isn’t on board,” Costello said. Costello says the town should reconsider the proposal for a new municipal complex. “We need a new town hall and public safety building. It’s an immediate need for those buildings to be replaced,” Costello said..“There isn’t a public building in town that has drinkable water. There are also structural issues, mold and other hazards that could potentially harm our employees,” Costello said. Costello pledges to continue to work in the best interest of the town and the people if he is elected. “I’ve always treated people with the utmost respect. I always listen and find a solution, or find where we can get the solution. I’ve always done that and I will continue to do that,” Costello said.

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Antonio Oliveira

Antonio Oliveira, a small business owner in town, is running for his first term on the Board of Selectmen. He is seeking a seat on the board to serve the town and its residents. “I am running so I can assist the town with better decisions on moving forward to the future,” Oliveira said. Although he doesn’t have experience in politics, Oliveira says his business experience Antonio Oliveira would be an asset to the Board and the town. “As a local business owner I’m faced with many decisions. Being able to decide what is best in my future and my employees’ future would help the town moving forward,” Oliveira said. Oliveira’s top priorities are public safety and education. He has two children in the school system and wants to make sure they continue to receive the highest quality education. “Children are the future of the town,” Oliveira said. He believes selectmen should work with the school department to complete the revision to the regional school agreement. “The regional agreement should have been revised a long time ago. The bottom line has been money and we need to come to an agreement between the towns and look at the cost factor per town,” Oliveira said. He also believes the town needs a new town hall and public safety building. “There is a need for new buildings. I want to see the new buildings built if the numbers are right, but not combined into one municipal complex. The project must be cost effective. They could be built over the course of time so it does not overburden taxpayers,” Oliveira said. Oliveira says selectmen should work for the people. “I want to work for the people. I’ll always have an open door policy and always listen to residents’ concerns without supporting special interests,” Oliveira said.

March 2018 The Reporter

Gerald Schwall

Gerald Schwall is seeking his second term on the board of selectmen. Schwall has served as Vice Chairman of the board for two years and previously served for five years on the Finance Committee. His other experience includes Chairman of the Revenue Enhancement and Expense Reduction Task Force; and member of the D-R Regional School District Financial Gerald Schwall Advisory Committee, among other positions. Schwall feels it is the board of selectmen’s job “to represent and do the work of all of the people, not just some of the people.” “I am running to represent all citizens of Rehoboth by executing the decisions made at Town Meeting; insuring our Town Bylaws are administered fairly; allocating our town resources to enhance the quality of life, safety and security of our residents, and to exercise judgment and advocate for policies that will insure the town continues to move forward in a positive direction,” Schwall said. Schwall’s top priorities are: to work with the members of the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Committee and the Dighton Board of Selectmen to revise the Regional School Agreement; and to make sure tougher safeguards are put in place to insure the health and safety of residents. “We successfully partnered with the Citizens Against the Rehoboth Compressor Station (CARCS) group and the Planning Board to author and advocate for a new Town Bylaw which affords further protection to our citizens against the environmental, health and safety impacts of large scale projects proposed for development in our town,” Schwall said. Schwall also wants to bring a revised Regional School Agreement to both towns at Town Meeting. “The current regional agreement has not been amended since 1987, and does not adequately

address the requirements of the 1993 Education Reform Act,” Schwall said. “The revised Agreement must enhance the quality of education for our children and allocate the financial responsibility for providing a quality public education in a manner that is fair and equitable to the taxpayers of both towns,” Schwall continued. One of Schwall’s most rewarding accomplishments as selectmen was working with the team to negotiate new contracts with union and contract employees. When he joined the board in April continued on next page...

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The Reporter March 2018

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2015, all the union contracts had expired and they managed to negotiate new contracts in a timely manner. Schwall expressed disappointment that the board did not secure voter approval for the proposed new municipal complex, but says the board is still working on the project. “We are in the process of acquiring land and making revisions to the building plans to address the feedback we have received. The Board is also conducting a series of workshops to determine the best way to move the process forward and we encourage anyone with suggestions to contact us or attend one of the workshops to voice their opinion,” Schwall said. It is important to Schwall that the board continues to conduct its business in an open and transparent manner. “When I was elected, I promised to represent everyone, not just one or two interests and that I would be fair. I promised to always make the best decisions to benefit the town and that’s what I’ve done,” Schwall said.

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Four Candidates Running for DightonRehoboth Regional School Committee

Four candidates are running for two seats on the DightonRehoboth Regional school committee. Incumbents David Katseff and Katherine Cooper are both seeking reelection. They are being challenged by Republican candidates Michael Deignan and George Solas. Deignan and Solas are members of the finance committee. For this profile, candidates were sent questions via email and their answers follow, in alphabetical order.

Katherine Dennen Cooper

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March 2018 The Reporter

K R O W M TEA HAPPENS WITH A GREAT TEAM

Re-Elect to

Elect to

Re-Elect

Gerry Schwall

Michael R. Costello

Michael P. Deignan

George M. Solas

Laura L. Schwall

It is an honor to serve, and with your support, I look forward to continuing to work on your behalf.

Diligently and effectively served our town in multiple capacities over several years.

A professional educator… BS, BA, MBA Exceptional service to Rehoboth Finance Committee for nine years.

Proactive… Focused… Accountable…

Serving you and our town for the past five years has been a pleasure. My sincere hope is to serve many of the years ahead.

Elect to

Re-Elect to

Re-Elect

Re-Elect to

Re-Elect

Patricia (Tish) Vadnais Susan W. Taylor

Robert E. Johnson II

David A. Perry

Keenly interested in the future of our town. Rehoboth born and raised.

Has always and will continue to keep our roadsides safe.

Kenneth E. Abrams and George Cardono

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The Reporter March 2018

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Having been on the School Committee for the past 3.5+ years, I’m currently serving as Chairperson and held the position of ViceChairperson last year. Additionally, I’m a member of the Capital, Policy, Budget, Financial Advisory, Regional Agreement, and Negotiations Subcommittees. For two years, I was the Chairperson of the Policy Subcommittee. I have been involved in the formation of the District Improvement Plan, the utilization of the Performance Contract to update school building utilities (HVAC, lighting, heating systems), as well as the alignment of the curriculum within the District both horizontally and vertically. Continuing on the School Committee would provide stability to the District on many of these initiatives. I also worked at the Rehoboth Town Hall for over 1.5 years in the Accounting Office, and as a result, I am familiar with both the Town and School finances. Previously, I was employed as a Process Chemist, which lends to my ability to research information and make fact based decisions. Why are you running for a seat on the committee? Growing up in Rehoboth, I received a great education here and hope to give back to my community. I currently have children in the School District, and would like to provide the District with continued stability. I would like to see the children in this town receive the best possible education, giving them the opportunity to succeed. What is the biggest issue facing the school district right now and how would you address it? The biggest issue facing our District, and other School Districts as well, is the lack of state funding. Each year operating costs increase due to rising insurances rates, salaries, and utilities, yet the state provides almost no corresponding increase in Chapter 70 State Aid. Concurrently, the state has reduced reimbursements such as Transportation and Special Education, causing the local municipalities to have to contribute even more to support the school budget. This is not sustainable. What would you like the school committee to accomplish in the upcoming year?

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March 2018 The Reporter I think the biggest areas of focus are, and should continue to be, the safety of children, raising the academic rigor, and sustaining the financial stability of the District. Now that many of the larger issues have or are being addressed, such as leaking roofs and lack of heat, I think the focus can now be on the teaching and learning in each classroom. Do you think the regional school district should split up into two separate districts and why? I think that it would definitely cost the town more to split into two separate districts. Right now, the Ch. 70 State Aid is split between the two towns. Rehoboth, on its own, would not receive the same amount of aid as it does now. The regional transportation reimbursement of ~$880,000 would be lost, and the overhead costs that are now shared, such as Central Office, District Facilities Manager, Electrician, and IT Manager, would be increased once duplicated. Therefore, I think it is financially prudent to remain as a Regional School District.

Michael P. Deignan

Occupation: HPCC Systems Manager, School for Marine Science & Technology, University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth What political experience or other relevant experience would you bring to the position? Member of the Rehoboth Finance Committee (currently in 9th year, 5 years as Chairman.) Over two decades of experience working in public education, principally in postgraduate administration and undergraduate-level adjunct faculty positions. Member, DR Financial Advisory Committee. Former member, Revenue Enhancement and Expense Reduction Task Force. Elected town constable. Town Fence-Viewer (appointed). Governor-appointed Justice of the Peace. Vice Chairman, Rehoboth Republican Town Committee. Bachelor and Master of Science in Business Administration. Open-door policy: people are welcome to call me any time with their questions and complaints: (cell) 401-556-5062 or (email) michael.p.deignan@gmail.com. I work for you. Why are you running for a seat on the committee? Several reasons: 1) Members of the Committee are out of touch with residents. They feel they represent a nebulous entity known as “The District”, rather than the men and women of Rehoboth who voted for them. They are more interested in being “fair” to Dighton, at the expense of Rehoboth’s interests. 2) One member of the School Committee has been there 30 years. Isn’t three decades enough? Time for new visions and ideas, not old ones which have created the mess we are in. 3) The budget of the district threatens the solvency of Rehoboth with its unsustainable annual increases. What is the biggest issue facing the school district right now and how would you address it? The long-term financial viability of the district. For several years, the increase in the school budget has out-paced our ability to raise revenue under the provisions of Proposition 2 ½. If this continues, residents will face two equally unpalatable options: a tax increase via a Proposition 2 ½ operational override, or reduction/elimination of town services to fund the district budget. The Committee is the “Board of Directors” for the district and needs to start acting like it: exercise its fiduciary responsibility over the $36+ million-dollar budget, have detailed budget hearings, and control the budget’s rate of growth. What would you like the school committee to accomplish in the upcoming year? Conclude the regional agreement study in cooperation with the BOS and present a recommendation at annual town meeting in May 2019; Enact new budgetary review and approval policies to control the rate of growth in the budget; Implement a budget preparation subcommittee which reviews all requested expenditures in next year’s budget and determines if there is evidence to support the request; continue to assess the capital needs of the school buildings to ensure a proper educational environment for our students. Increase responsiveness to the concerns and needs of the families we as School Committee members represent.

Do you think the regional school district should split up into two separate districts and why? The Board of Selectmen is studying, as part of its regional agreement review, “de-regionalization” (not “splitting” into separate districts) of the Town’s K-8 schools, an option allowed within the existing regional agreement. The Rehoboth members of the Committee have a responsibility to examine all options, in cooperation with the BOS, to determine the best option for Rehoboth. Deregionalization is the last option we should exercise. The better option is to reach a consensus on the new regional agreement which is fair to all district communities. This is why new thinking is critical to the Committee - to preserve the district.

David Katseff

Occupation: Small Business Owner What political experience or other relevant experience would you bring to the position? As a long term School Committee member, I have seen many improvements in the quality of education for our students. I have seen what works...and what doesn’t. I have worked with five different Superintendents, each with various strengths. Also, as a small business owner I provide a very different perspective than the Administration and most other School Committee members, continued on next page...

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The Reporter March 2018

which has helped with contract negotiations and with short term and long term budgets. Why are you running for a seat on the Committee? When discussing and deciding on goals and priorities for the District, I feel that my knowledge and experience is still very valuable to both my fellow School Committee members and to the Administration. Since we cannot afford ALL potential resources and programs, School Committee members must decide to use our allocated funds in the most productive ways to best educate our students and to help them meet the challenges they will face when they graduate. What is the biggest issue facing the school district right now and how would you address it? Although many of our students are showing positive levels of achievement, we are still testing below proficient or advanced in too many areas of our curriculum...especially in some of the K-8 grades. We as a committee must continue to stress high standards and accountability for all of our teachers and administrators. Also, we must work to provide the resources to help all K-8 students to reach their full potential. This doesn’t have to mean more money in the overall budget. Sometimes we have to make the tough decisions to re-allocate existing funds. What would you like the School Committee to accomplish in the upcoming year? It is VERY important that the School Committee, working with individuals and groups in both of our District’s towns, finish the job of correcting and updating our Regional School District Agreement, which hasn’t seen any major revision since 1987 when the K-8 grades were brought into the Regional District. The School Committee set up a RAAC (Regional Agreement Amendment Committee), made up of School Committee members, Selectmen, Finance Committee members and other citizens who, with the help of our Regional Schools consultant, worked for over two years to update and correct the agreement. Although most or all of us agreed on the majority of recommendations, when it came to certain funding issues, the RAAC could not reach consensus. Therefore, we could not make a recommendation to the School Committee. About a year ago, the School Committee set up a RAATF (Regional Agreement Amendment Task Force) made up of six School Committee members (three from each town). Working with most of the RAAC’s suggestions, we reached consensus on a draft amendment that was recommended to the full School Committee in the Fall of 2017. Since that time, the RAATF and the full School Committee has been meeting with groups in both towns to discuss the recommended amendment and get their suggestions on how to improve this draft document. This is where we are today. Please remember that ALL three entities (School Committee, Town of Rehoboth and Town of Dighton) must approve any recommended Agreement amendment. This will take lots of discussion, good ideas, and some compromising to get the job done. Do you think the regional school district should split up into two separate districts and why? For all of the reasons why Rehoboth wanted to form a full K-12 region in 1987, we should STAY a full K-12 region. Rehoboth profits both monetarily and educationally from the State’s regional

transportation reimbursements, the sharing of the Superintendent and other Central Office staff, the access to a district Vocational Technical curriculum, and the sharing of many district wide specialized professionals in both Regular Education and Special Education. When we finally correct and update our Regional Agreement, I believe that Rehoboth citizens will, once again, feel that being part of a full K-12 region is the best plan for our Rehoboth taxpayers and for our children’s education.

George Solas

Occupation: To be the best husband, father and grandfather ever. I am newly retired and very active serving the Rehoboth Community. I was the Vice President of Sales and Development in the computer industry for Avnet, Inc. What political experience or other relevant experience would you bring to the position? My Service to Rehoboth – Finance Committee Member / Secretary for 4 years; Superintendent’s School Advisory Committee; Superintendent’s School Capital Committee; Initial School Regional Agreement Amendment Committee since 2014; Rehoboth Selectmen’s Regional School Agreement Review Committee; Lion’s Club member for over 20 years; Served as a School Committee Member 19 years ago I focus on asking the right financial and process questions. Why are you running for a seat on the committee? 1) My drive is to ensure our students are prepared to proactively attack an ever changing world with strong knowledge skills and powerful decision tools. Our students should never stop challenging their strengths. Continual learning fuels success – Success breeds Success. 2) I am especially concerned with the lack of fair and equitable standards regarding the Regional School Agreement between Rehoboth and Dighton. The financial implications to both Rehoboth and Dighton are of major concern. 3) To ensure the specifics of financial responsibility are understood and practiced by our school elected representatives. Financial acumen as it applies to Rehoboth cannot be assumed. What is the biggest issue facing the school district right now and how would you address it? It is almost four years since the School Committee created a review process (RACC Committee) to make changes to the Regional Agreement. The original agreement was written almost six decades ago and has open issues to be resolved because of changing Massachusetts State Laws. The Board of Education made changes to the state’s mandates in 2007. This Regional Agreement is the base foundation and rules, that defines the mutual behavior and management of our schools. It also defines the financial obligations that each town is accountable for. Our Regional Agreement review process (RACC Committee) was not managed well. It was contentious and led to frustration among the committee members. Rehoboth needs to elect new vision, fresh ideas and accountability. What would you like the school committee to accomplish in the upcoming year? To have the Rehoboth School Committee recognize that they were elected by the citizens of our town. It doesn’t mean that there has to be a constant battle between the needs of our schools and those of our community. Example: The school committee is the body responsible for approving and transmitting school department expenditures to the Rehoboth accountant for the drawing of warrants. This spring the Rehoboth School Committee submitted a warrant that had Rehoboth responsible for paying 70% of a capital project and Dighton 30%. The Rehoboth Finance Committee did not accept it. The School Committee needs to implement budgetary review procedures that put integrity into the budgeting process. Do you think the regional school district should split up into two separate districts and why? There are no discussions to separate the high schools. I am on the Selectmen’s Committee to review the options and benefits of de-regionalizing the Rehoboth PreK-8 Schools in the way the schools were managed in the past. De-regionalization would not affect the quality of education at Palmer River and Beckwith. Unless Rehoboth’s assessment is calculated in a more fair and equitable manner, we may be left with no alternative.

March 2018 The Reporter

Rehoboth Ramblings by Leslie Patterson

William Blackstone, New England Pioneer

The first English settler to establish his home within the territory that became old ReSpecializing in Southeastern MA and RI Commercial hoboth was neither Roger Williams nor Rev. Samuel Newman, who brought his congregation from Weymouth in 1643 to found the town of Rehoboth. (The original settlement of and Residential Real Estate since 1964 that time was situated in what is now Rumford, RI.) 1460 Fall River Avenue, Suite 11 William Blackstone is credited as being the first European to actually make his home Seekonk, Massachusetts 02771 in what is now Boston (then called Shawmut). After disagreements with those who came after him, he worked his solitary way down to this area, settling in what would become the Tel: (508) 336-4000 Lonsdale section of Cumberland, RI, about three miles north of present day Pawtucket. Blackstone (whose name was sometimes spelled Blaxton) is not as well-known as Roger Williams, probably because he was not the founder of any town or colony. As we celebrate Diane F. Aubin / Principle Broker 401-524-5877 Rehoboth’s 375th, it’s interesting to see what Rev. George Tilton said about Blackstone in his daubin@aubincorp.com book that looked back at 275 years of Rehoboth’s history; Tilton’s “A History of Rehoboth” was published 100 years ago. Rev. Tilton was minister of the Rehoboth Congregational Kerry Baker / Sales: 508-431-+8661 Church from 1877 to 1891. He also founded the Rehoboth Antiquarian Society in 1884. Mary Levasseur / Sales: 508-930-5362 William Blackstone came to America very early and settled in Shawmut by 1625. He Call today for a free Home Analysis was a non-conformist minister of the Church of England. “He remained in quiet possession of his Shawmut estate until the arrival of Gov. Winthrop and his company in 1630”, www.AUBINCORP.com according to Rev. Tilton. “But Blackstone had no sympathy with the narrow and intolerant religious beliefs of the Puritans” and he was often at odds with the newcomers in the Massachusetts Bay Colony. Eventually, Boston’s founding fathers paid Blackstone 30 pounds for his Shawmut property and in 1635 “this eccentric man bade adieu to the abodes of civilization” and moved westward seeking asylum. He told the people of Boston “I came from Eng142 Reservoir Ave, Rehoboth, MA • 401-465-7589 land because I did not like the Lord Bishops but I cannot join with you because I would not be under the Lord Brethren.” This was one year before Roger Williams came to settle in a place he called Providence. We have amazing alpaca beans for all Blackstone settled near a river that came to bear his name in a your garden needs, alpaca sales and place the native people called Wawepoonseag. In 1661 this area breedings, along with our incredible became part of the Attleborough Gore section of old Rehoboth. USA-made fiber products. Blackstone called his new home Study Hall. There he planted a garden and the first apple orchard in New England. Visit us! Open Sundays 12-4PM Although he had lived mostly as a recluse, late in life he married a widow named Mrs. Sarah Stevenson of Boston in 1659. She had children from her first marriage, and she and Blackstone had a son named John in 1660. Blackstone’s wife died in 1673 and he himself died in May 1675 at the age of 80, just a few weeks before the start of King Philip’s War “which laid in ashes his fair domain”. Blackstone raised cattle and often visited Providence seven miles down the river to exchange greetings with his friend Roger Williams. He gave people in Providence fruit from his orchard, the first apples that some of those born in the New World had ever tasted. Tradition says that when Blackstone became too old to make the journey on foot, he tamed a bull to ride to visit his friends. After his death, Blackstone’s real estate “amounted to 200 Designer Handbags, Jewelry, Shoes, acres of land … and also 60 acres and two shares in meadows in Gently Used & New Clothing Providence”. Remarkably for one living in the wilderness, Blackstone left a library containing the 186 volumes he had brought from England, which were valued at over 56 pounds, but these were lost during the bloody war between the English and the native people. William Blackstone’s name lives on with the Blackstone River and the Blackstone River Valley, that part of Massachusetts and Rhode Island which became the cradle of the Industrial Revolution 1 FULL PRICED CLOTHING ITEM in America. Many places and businesses in that area now bear the with this coupon name Blackstone Expires 3/31/18 (exclusions may apply) You couldn’t call William Blackstone a pilgrim forefather, since New Items he was so often at odds with Puritan beliefs, but he certainly was a Added true pioneer of what was then the wild frontier. You could say that 147 Swansea Mall Drive, Swansea, MA • 508-730-2211 Daily! he was Rhode Island’s original Independent Man. Tues-Sat 10-5 (Friday till 7) • Closed Sun & Mon

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The Reporter March 2018

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Hello All ~ Wow, time sure flies when you’re having fun!!! The clerk’s office has been busy processing 2018 census data, dog tag licenses, election nominations, budgets, annual report submissions, and preparing for the upcoming annual town elections. It sure made the time pass quickly! To those of you submitting your census documents and for registering your Laura Schwall dogs so promptly ~ thank you. If you have not Town Clerk sent in your census, please forward as soon as possible. Census forms were due January 31st and Dog Licenses are due April 1st.

Upcoming 5th Annual Rehoboth-Seekonk Rabies Clinic

Speaking of dog licenses, Rob Johnson, our Animal Control Officer, Lynn Shaker, and I are thrilled to be a part of the 5th Annual combined Rehoboth-Seekonk Rabies Clinic on Saturday, March 10th from 9 a.m. to Noon at the Seekonk Highway Department – Route 44 & Lake Street. Both Seekonk and Rehoboth Town Clerks will be there along with Animal Control Officers from both towns and Veterinarian, Dr. Truesdale. Rabies shots cost $12 and residents also have the opportunity to renew their dog’s 2018 Dog License at the same time. We will even have dog treats available for our four legged friends. The clinic is open to all animal owners. Cats must be in carriers, dogs on leashes. Massachusetts animal owners must bring either a certificate for a rabies vaccination dated between March and June of last year or a previous Massachusetts three-year rabies certificate from a veterinarian. Our yearly rabies clinics have been a huge success the past four years, and we look forward to holding many more in the years to come. We hope to see you on March 10th.

Dog Licenses for 2018

The 2018 Dog Licenses are now available and are due annually by April 1, 2018. Residents may either purchase their dog’s 2018 Dog License by mail, online at: https://www.invoicecloud.com/rehobothgovsvcs, or in person at the Town Clerk’s Office. The office hours are Monday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and on Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The licensing fees are as follows: Male or female dog $20.00; female-spayed or male-neutered $10.00. If paying by check, please make sure it is made payable to “Town of Rehoboth”. 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 Hours Office. If you are unsure, please give our M•T•T•F office a call (508-252-6502 x-3110-Laura or 9-5 x-3109-Lynn), and we can tell you how up-todate our information is. Dog owners should Wed til 8 note that the license(s) will not be returned Sat 9-1 unless a stamped, self-addressed envelope is included with current postage (71¢ for one dog tag, 93¢ for two dog tags and $1.15 for three dog tags). If no postage is enclosed, we will hold the dog licenses for you at town

March 2018 The Reporter

hall. You may pick them up at your convenience. To date we have already registered 583 dogs this year. Thank you all for renewing your licenses so promptly; we still have 1,500+ registrations to be renewed. We hope to hear from you soon.

Annual Town Election

The Town of Rehoboth Annual Town Election will be held on Monday, April 2, 2018 with the polls in all three precincts open from 7am to 8pm. As with all elections, the election warrant will be posted, with the polling hours, at the normal three posting locations in each of the three precincts. Election warrant press releases are also sent to the local newspapers, Rehobothnow.com and the Rehoboth Reporter to post. In addition, the polling hours for the Annual Town Election will be noted on the front page of the Town Website (www.town.rehoboth.ma.us). The Democratic Town Committee held their Caucus on Saturday, February 10th at Goff Hall with the following Democratic Caucus Nominees being placed on the Annual Town Election Ballot: Moderator for one year term – incumbent William J. Cute, Jr.; Water Commission Three-Year term – incumbent Thomas Nicholson. Both candidates will be listed as Democratic Caucus Nominees on the April 2nd ballot. The Republican Town Committee held their Caucus on Tuesday, February 13th at the COA (Senior Center) with the following Republican Caucus Nominees to be placed on the Annual Town Election Ballot: Selectman for three year term – incumbent Gerald V. Schwall and nominee Michael R. Costello; Town Clerk for three year term – incumbent Laura L. Schwall; Assessor for three year term – incumbent Susan W. Taylor ; D-R Regional District School Committee for three year term – Michael P. Deignan and George M. Solas; Planning Board for a five-year term – Patricia A. Vadnais; Park Commission for a five year term – Kenneth E. Abrams, Park Commission for a three year term – incumbent George Cardono; Storm Water Officer for a three year term – incumbent David A. Perry, Jr., and Tree Warden for a three year term – incumbent Robert E. Johnson, II. These candidates will be listed on the April 2nd ballot as Republican Caucus Nominees. In the addition to the above, the Republican Town Committee also endorsed John David “Jake” Kramer for the four-year Planning Board position. This year there were six nomination papers that were certified for “Independent/Unenrolled” or “Non-Designated” candidates. Craig R. Chapman, Jonathan J. Clark and Antonio A. Oliveira for the three-year Selectman term, Tomas´ E. Ennis – incumbent for a 5-year term on Planning Board, incumbent Kathleen F. Cooper for the three-year D-R Regional School Committee term and David A. Katseff, incumbent for the 3-year term for D-R Regional School Committee. Therefore, the two contested races in the April 2nd election will be Selectmen – two positions available with five candidates running and two School Committee positions available with four candidates running. In addition to the contested races, we will also have a ballot question for the DightonRehoboth Regional High School Roof. The questions will read: BALLOT QUESTION #1: Shall the Town of Rehoboth be allowed to exempt from the provisions of proposition two and one-half, so-called, the amounts

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The Reporter

March 2018

required to pay its assessments by the District to pay the principal of and interest on the bond issued by the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District in order to pay the costs of roof replacement and / or repair at the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School, including the payment of all costs incidental or related thereto? ____ Yes ____ No If you do not understand the statement above, please ask your questions before Election Day. Ask a School Committee member, Selectman, Clerk’s Office, etc. prior to the election. As many of the voters found out, at the last town election, the State will not allow us or the Election Workers explain what the question means or what a yes or no vote means on the day of the election. Please learn the facts before you vote ~ thank you!

Upcoming Voter Registration Session

The final date to register to vote in the Annual Town Election is Tuesday, March 13. Prospective voters are reminded that they may register to vote online by going to www.RegisterToVoteMA. com or by visiting the Town Clerk’s Office, 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, use the yellow census voter registration/party designation change form, or download a form online @ http://www.sec.state.ma.us/ele/elepdf/ Voter-reg-mail-in.pdf. As an added convenience, the Town Clerk’s office will be open until 8:00 PM on March 13th to accommodate last minute registrations.

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Absentee Ballot Applications

Applications for absentee ballots are now available and may be obtained from the Town Clerk’s Office, at the post office, or online @ http://www.sec.state.ma.us/ele/elepdf/absentee_ballot.pdf An absentee ballot may only be obtained by written request and with the voter’s original signature. The deadline to apply for an absentee ballot for the Annual Town Election is Friday, March 30th at 5:00 p.m. Even though town offices are closed on Friday, March 30th, the Clerk’s office will be open until 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 30th to receive absentee ballot applications for the April 2, 2018 election.

Annual Town Census Forms Are Now Past Due

The Annual Town Census Forms for year 2018 were mailed to all households in Rehoboth during the first week of January. If you haven’t received your census form, please contact the Town Clerk’s Office. You will notice that this year’s census form also contains information regarding your political party affiliation and voter registration. If there is nothing listed in the last column to the right of your name on the census form, it means you are not registered to vote. If you wish to vote in the upcoming April 2nd election, please either register online at www.RegisterToVoteMA.com or visit us at the clerk’s office by Tuesday, March 13, 2018. In addition, next to your party affiliation, you will notice an ( I ) or (A). Those initials signify that the voter is A-Active or I-Inactive. If you are listed as an inactive voter and you want to vote in the upcoming Annual Town Election, please contact our office immediately to resolve the matter. Residents are asked to review the pre-printed census forms, make corrections, and return your 2018 census forms as soon as possible. Party changes and registrations must be done through the Town Clerk’s Office with your original signature in order to process a change of designation or to register to vote. As of February 26th, we still have 575 households in Precinct 1; 566 households in Precinct 2 and 584 households in Precinct 3 that have not yet responded to the annual town census. Please return your census form immediately, if you have not already done so ~ thank you.

Mail

It is requested that when you send correspondence to any office at the Town Hall you only include information specific to the department you want to communicate with. As an example, residents might send in their tax payment along with their census form or dog license. Tax payments would go to the Tax Collector whereas census forms or dog licenses would go to the Town Clerk’s Office. By including multiple offices in one envelop it may delay processing your requests or payments. Thank you for your consideration.

Business Certificates

Business owners whose business certificate will expire between January through June of 2018 should have received a reminder for renewal. The renewal fee is $50.00 (certificate renewal is good for four years) and checks should be made payable to “The Town of Rehoboth”. You may also renew using a credit/debit card either online (web address below) or at the Town Clerk’s window. Before a new business can be registered within the town, business owners must first contact the Zoning Officer – Bill McDonough at 320 Anawan Street in order to have the location and/or type of business approved. Business license forms and complete process details can be found on the clerk’s website @ http://www.town.rehoboth.ma.us/town-clerk/pages/businesscertificates

Remembering Mildred “Millie” J. Hatten

I am sad to say we lost a very dear lady on December 30, 2017 at the age of 90 years old. Millie was dedicated to the Town of Rehoboth serving almost 21 years as Rehoboth’s Town Accountant from 1974-1995, another 21 years as a Precinct 3 election worker

March 2018 The Reporter

American Legion Post 302 Hosts All-YouCan-Eat Mexican Dinner Fundraiser

On February 9th, an All-You-Can-Eat Mexican Dinner fundraiser for the 375th Parade was held at American Legion Post 302 with 128 happy diners. The delicious array of Mexican cuisine was organized by 375th Committee member Kim Fagundes who did all the cooking with a little help with food prep from other 375th committee members. Thanks to Homestead Farms for their generous donations, to Gerry & Laura Schwall, Ken Abrams and Sandy Phillips for serving dinner. Also to Jake Kramer who sold the 375th shirts, raffle tickets and upcoming dinner tickets. Thank you American Legion for free use of the hall and Connie Wenzel-Jordan advertisements in social media. And a huge thank you to all local businesses and individuals who donated raffle items, and of course to all to supported the 375th Parade by attending.

Right: Wendy Wolfe Cardarelli, Steve Howitt, Skip Vandais & a happy patron. Photo credit: Kevin Hebert. *See more photos at reportertoday.com

Rehoboth’s New Veterans Van

In September 2017, the Veterans Agent of Rehoboth Jake Kramer approached the Board of Selectmen to request to put an Article in the Warrant at the November Town Meeting for a new Veterans Van due to the overwhelming repairs that would be needed to allow its’ use to transport Rehoboth’s Veterans. The Selectmen agreed and in November the residents voted and approved of Rehoboth approved for the purchase of the van. The Veterans with disabilities of Rehoboth are so happy with the town’s new Van that they would like to thank all of the residents of Rehoboth for going the extra mile to support them in their time and needs to get them to the VA Hospital clinics in the surrounding area. Thank you Rehoboth!️

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The Reporter

March 2018

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State Representative Steven S. Howitt and the Rehoboth Cultural Council are pleased to announce the award of 14 grants totaling $5,300 to support local cultural programs. The Rehoboth Cultural Council is one arm of a network of 329 Local Cultural Councils (LCC) serving all 351 cities and towns in the Commonwealth. The LCC Program is the largest grassroots cultural funding network in the nation, supporting thousands of community-based projects in the arts, sciences and humanities every year. The state legislature provides an annual appropriation to the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency, which then allocates funds to each community. “I’d like to offer my congratulations to both the Rehoboth Cultural Council for its diligence and hard work in making the 2018 selections, and to this year’s grant recipients,” said Representative Steven Howitt. “The arts add significant value to our lives and to our communities. This year, in particular, Rehoboth’s 375th Anniversary year, there is a great deal to celebrate in our Town, and the creative spirit helps to pave the way. What a wonderful year to celebrate both our community and the talents of the artists in our midst. Congratulations to all the grant recipients again!” Statewide, more than $3.3 million will be distributed by local cultural councils in 2018. Grants will support an enormous range of grass-roots activities: concerts, exhibitions, radio and video productions, field trips for schoolchildren, after-school youth programs, writing workshops, historical preservation efforts, lectures, writing workshops, historical preservation efforts, First Night celebrations, nature and science education programs for families, and town festivals. Nearly half of LCC funds support educational activities for young people. Decisions about which activities to support are made at the community level by a board of municipally appointed volunteers. There are currently eight members serving on the Rehoboth Cultural Council: Catherine Allen, Sandra Delany, Gloria Lagasse, Molly Lewandowski, Desire Palmer, Susan Robert, Melissa Treichler, and Lisa Milich. The Rehoboth Cultural Council invites residents who have an interest in the arts, sciences, and humanities to join us in service to the Rehoboth community. For further information, please contact Molly Lewandowski at culturalcouncil@town.rehoboth.ma.us. Talent Bank forms may be downloaded from the Town’s website under the tab, Board of Selectmen. continued on page 30...

March 2018 The Reporter

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The Reporter

March 2018

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This year’s successful grants include: • Rehoboth Council on Aging-Art Class $300 and Musical Performance $200 • SMARTS Collaborative-Student Art Touring Exhibit $100 • Rehoboth Parks Commission-Music on Redway Plain $500 • Blanding Public Library-New England Aquarium Library Pass $500 • Beckwith Middle School-Field Trip $500 • Arts in the Village-Boston Trio Concert $300 • Arts in the Village- Daurov/Myer Duo $300 • DR High School Latin Class- Field Trip $300 • Carpenter Museum-Strawberry Festival $500 • Carpenter Museum- 375 of Rehoboth History Lecture and Exhibit $400 • DR Marching Band Boosters-UMass Band Day $400 • Rehoboth PTSA-Musical Workshop $600 • Rehoboth 375 Committee-Rehoboth 375th Parade $400 The Rehoboth Cultural Council will seek grant applications again in the fall. Information and forms are available at www. mass-culture.org/rehoboth. Applications will be accepted beginning September 1, 2018 through October 15, 2018. We look forward to hearing from you!

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Rehoboth Selectmen Vote to Hold Annual Town Meeting

The Rehoboth Board of Selectmen voted to set the date for the Annual Town Meeting for Monday, May 14, 2018 starting at 7:00 PM at the Dighton Rehoboth Regional High School, 2700 Regional Road, N. Dighton, MA in the auditorium. The Board has also voted to open the Warrant for the Annual Town Meeting and to close the Warrant on Thursday, March 1, 2018 at 12:00 noon. All articles for the Annual Town Meeting Warrant should be submitted to the Selectmen’s Office by this date and time.

Rehoboth Emergency Management Agency Looking for Volunteers

REMA/Rescue is looking for town residents that are willing to volunteer in our department. Volunteers are needed in the following fields including but not limited to: shelter operations, water related emergencies, dive squad, large animal rescue, communication, media skills, and other skills in the event of an emergency, natural or manmade. Benefits to volunteering include educational opportunities for training in emergency operations. These are funded by REMA/Rescue to enhance the volunteer’s skills and confidence as an asset to the community. Anyone interested please contact through our website: rehobothema.org or call: 508-951-8811 or email the director William Maiorano at Director@rehobothema. org.

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March 2018 The Reporter By Sue Pimental It’s that time of the year…Election time. Reminder, Rehoboth’s Election Day is the first MONDAY in April, this year is April 2nd this year. There are some contested races… like Selectman and School Committee. On March 20th, the RBA will host a meet the candidate at Hillside Country Club. It is not live…its taped and played on Rehoboth Now and I think public access. It is open to anyone wishes to listen to the Q & A of all candidates running for elected office. Contact the RBA (Rehoboth Business Association) for tickets. This is the time to evaluate the candidates and vote for who you think will best represent you and the town. I’m going to talk about the Regional Agreement for our schools. The schools regional agreement was last looked at and last updated in 1987 (or there abouts). The school committee a few years ago put together a subcommittee made up of members of both towns…both school committee members, board of selectman, finance committee and representatives from each to review and update the regional agreement. In the current language it talks about k-8 and the high-school. As you probably know (or maybe you don’t know), Rehoboth and Dighton both have an elementary and middle school in their respective towns...and a regional high-school. A lot of the language is outdated based on new laws/guidelines etc…made sense to look to update it. The sub-committee spent about 18 months on it( I will never get use to the time it takes for everything to get done in government…crazy…no wonder I have so much gray hair!). Recently they submitted to both board of selectman their “revised” recommendations. While they spent 18 months, my opinion (remember the title of the column), they missed or took out key components, and missed an opportunity to put together a regional agreement that is fair & equitable to both towns. The Rehoboth board of selectman started meeting along with the finance committee to painstakingly review the regional agreement as it is right now and the proposed changes from the subcommittee. We set up a separate meetings outside our regular scheduled Selectman meeting to meet and review, since they are quite involved and lengthy…we’ve had about 6 meetings and should be finalizing our recommendation for the agreement in the next week or so. If you read my column, you know I have big issues with how Rehoboth gets unfairly assessed by the school. I’ve been involved for 12 years…6 years on finance committee and 6 years on the board of selectman. Let me see if I can explain my issue or my problem with how Rehoboth is assessed. As a member of the finance committee back in 2006, the then committee, started dealing with this wealth formula. The state changed how they calculated funding for cities and towns. They take into account the income of the residents and the property values. I get the property values, income makes no sense ( to me). When this wealth formula was put into place and if you attended town meetings, you saw the struggle to approve the school assessment to Rehoboth. Our reimbursement went from 50% to barely 40%. You might think 10% is not a big deal…it is when you are looking at a 26M budget…or 2.6M swing…ouch! At town meeting on several occasions, they voted less than the school assessment. It resulted in the school committee fully funding the highschool ( if Dighton town meeting voted for the assessment) and taking the cuts or reduced assessment to the k-8 in Rehoboth. Then a few years ago, the school committee brought in a consultant (I’ll refrain from commenting my opinion of consultants) and they stated that if the regional agreement did address an alternative method for assessment, the statutory method would be the method applied. Let me see if I can explain this. The statutory method applies the “equalized value” similar to the wealth formula by the state to each member town. It’s important to understand what this means and the repercussions. It means that the school population has nothing to do with how the assessment is made…it’s based continued on next page...

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The Reporter

March 2018

on this equalized value…meaning Rehoboth will be 60 % or more regardless of the student population. Read that again, meaning…if Rehoboth students make up 40%of the total budget, Rehoboth will pay 60%. Does that seem fair to you? Dighton is considered “less wealthy” compared to Rehoboth…their equalized share is close to 40%...regardless of the number of students in their school system.

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I would bet most of you if asked, would think each town’s pays to educate their students. You would be wrong, My opinion, we should have an alternative method in the regional agreement that says, each member town will pay for their k-8 students (and all costs & capital related to the schools residing in the each towns) and pay their share of the students attending the high-school. And then every year town meeting vote for the assessment presented, which applied this alternative method. Doesn’t this seem fair? We ALWAYS did this in the past. Don’t’ let anyone change the subject or cloud this issue that they can’t change the wealth formula or that there is a min requirement that each towns has contribute to the schools…I’m not talking about that…it goes without saying…but I’ll say it. Rehoboth must pay the net min requirement as it relates to the school contribution and our reimbursement won’t change from the state….they will still apply this wealth formula. Rehoboth will pay more per student than Dighton…nothing we can do about it until the state changes this wealth formula which is unlikely. But we CAN change how we are assessed. The reason I talk about all this and explain it because the subcommittee that submitted their recommendation for a new regional agreement, took out any reference to the k-8. They made it next to impossible for any member town to withdraw the partially…it’s all or nothing from the regional agreement. And took anyway any bargaining or negotiating power for Rehoboth. Why on earth would you do that Rehoboth? It makes no sense to even talk about withdrawing the high-school...Rehoboth would still be responsible for the debt on the high-school and then we would have to go out and build or find a new high-school. Makes no sense at this point. The k-8 an entirely different story. Our k-8’s reside in each respective towns… the debt on those buildings are the debt of each respective town’s k-8. The bargaining or negotiating tool that Rehoboth has…Put an alternative method in the agreement or we look to withdraw the k-8. I personally don’t want to do that, but I don’t want to pay to educate Dighton students while constantly taking hits to the budget for the town. This is a HUGE number to Rehoboth…upwards of 1,000,000 swing. Keep in mind we had an alternative method applied each year…then it changed. We, I, the board of selectman ( and you would think the Rehoboth school committee members) want to go back to how it was assessed in past years…we pay for our k-8 and share the high-school based on the student population. If we do not, we pull the k-8 out of the regional agreement. While we will be subject to covering transportation costs 100% at the k-8, we would still have a net positive gain. Dighton would have to pay for its k-8 students and is applicable transportation costs…a double whammy. There will be some other costs associated with having a separate k-8….minor compared to what we are paying right now. It’s a bargaining tool…go back to assessing each k-8 to each member town and high-school based on student population or we start the process of withdrawal. So, as you listen to the candidates, anyone that does not believe and won’t fight to have a fair assessment to each town should be removed or not re-elected. My opinion. Dighton school committee members will try to divert and deflect the issue…it’s a yes or no question… Do you think it’s fair that each town pay for its k-8 and the highschool is assessed based on the student population? If they say no, it’s not fair…ask why? If they say yes, hold them to it…make it happen. The state will still reimburse each town based on the wealth formula and each town has a net min requirement for school funding that must be met each year. Don’t’ allow anyone to divert the answer it’s a yes or no answer. Rehoboth will pay more….but it will be based on educating OUR students and associated costs and not another town. Remember we were doing it all along until a consultant got involved. My two cents.

March 2018 The Reporter

Seekonk Annual Election is April 2nd By Susan Boucher

Three Seeking Selectmen’s Seat in Seekonk

Seekonk voters will have the opportunity on April 2 to cast their vote in several races in the annual town election on April 2, including the Board of Selectmen, School Committee, Library Trustee, Board of Assessors, Water Commissioner and Planning Board. Paul K. Buckley is a candidate for re-election to the Board of Assessors. He is running unopposed. Katherine Lussier and Sharon Connors are seeking the two open seats on the Library Board of Trustees. Connors is seeking re-election. For Planning Board, Phoebe Lee Dunn is up for re-election. She is the only candidate running for the post. In the Selectmen’s race, incumbents David Parker and David Viera as well as Housing Authority commissioner Christopher Zorra are seeking the two seats up for grabs. The term for selectmen is three years. David Parker moved to Seekonk 42 years ago. A familiar fixture in town government, his involvement in town goes back to his days as a little league parent and Boy Scout leader. As a founder of the Save -A-Pet Auction, he has helped raise over $200,000 in the 20 years that the event has been running. His civic involvement is extensive. He was elected to the Charter Formation Committee, has been chairman of the Seekonk Personnel Board and for 12 years was Seekonk’s Town Moderator, before being elected to the Board of Selectmen. According to Parker, he believes “controlling growth in town to be the major issue facing Seekonk today.” He would like to see both the new animal shelter and the senior center completed if elected to a second term. Another priority according to Parker, is getting fire protection to the south end of town. Third generation Seekonk resident David Viera has lived his entire life in Seekonk, and like Parker, he is also well known in town. Viera was a fire fighter in Seekonk for 30 years, with the last 13 of those years serving as Chief. In addition to being a current member of the Board of Selectmen, Viera is also Chairman of the Veterans Memorial Park Committee. He has also served the town as a member of the Planning Board, and has been chairman of the Memorial Day parade for the past 40 years. Viera, who served in the US Marine Corps during the Vietnam era, is the current Commander for the American Legion Post 311 in Seekonk as well as the American Legion Past Department Vice Commander for the State of Massachusetts. Viera believes that there are several different issues that need attention in Seekonk. His number one priority is “to make schools safe for our children. In my opinion, the presence of a police officer in every school would not be out of the question.” Another issue that Viera, in cooperation with the school committee, promises to address is the need for additional space needs that the schools are currently trying to resolve. Like Parker, he also believes completion of the animal shelter and the senior center as well as adding a fire station in the south end of town are at the top priorities in town right now. Among the top things that Viera would like to accomplish if reelected are fiscally responsible budgeting and spending and careful management of all capital expenditures. He also promises to be an advocate for students while supporting a reasonable budget, appoint a committee to build a south end fire station, and complete the senior center building project and animal shelter. Christopher Zorra, the third candidate for one of the two selectmen’s seats, is also a lifelong resident of Seekonk. He believes that he would be an asset to the Board of Selectmen because not only does he attend several different board meetings, he is knowledgeable about the town’s policies and procedures and would bring a fresh perspective to the table.

According to Zorra, his tenure as a commissioner to the housing authority for the last four years has given him the experience to “collaborate with multiple boards and agencies to accomplish a common goal.” Since his term began, Zorra believes that major structural updates and progress have been made. Zorra believes that the most important issue in Seekonk right now is budgets and taxes. “I would attempt to maintain all necessary services and deal with future needs all while keeping taxes low,” he stated. If elected to the Board of Selectmen Zorra’s priorities would include “collaborating with every board by having quarterly meetings, addressing infrastructure needs such as the DPW building, animal shelter, Phase 2 of senior center, a south end fire station, sporting fields, and schools.” He would also like to seek all available grants for the town. Zorra says that he wants to “continue to help move the Town forward and keep a sustainable budget. I would also like to inspire younger citizens to be more involved by attending meetings, joining committees and boards, and getting out there to vote. In conjunction, I’d like to keep the Town’s website updated with accurate information.” The polls will be open from 7AM – 8PM. All precincts will once again vote at Seekonk High School, 261 Arcade Avenue. Residents are reminded that the last day to register to vote in the town election is March 13, 2018.

Two Vying for Open Water Commissioner Post

In the only contested election in Seekonk this year, besides the Board of Selectmen and School Committee, two local residents have thrown their hat in the ring to become the newest Water Commissioner. Jeffrey Starr Mararian is a life-long resident of Seekonk and has been involved in Seekonk politics all of his adult life. He ran unsuccessfully for Water Commissioner a few years ago. He said back then he “did my due diligence on how our water system works in town, so I would hit the ground running if elected and show up for every meeting.” The paramount issue Mararian believes is to protect the water district›s aquifers and to upgrade the current bylaws. His opponent, David M. Melo, has 21 years experience in a public water supply, the past 15 years in a management capacity in a large water system. According to Melo, “my professional experience in a public water supply gives appropriate perspective to planning, financial, and operational needs of the utility.” He believes that water quality and quantity are of the utmost concern. Additionally, “employee training and investing in the utility is the most valuable asset.” Voters will choose a water commissioner for a three-year term.

Four Seek Two Open Spots on Seekonk School Committee

In the most contested race in this year’s Annual Town Election slated for April 2, four residents are seeking to be elected to only two open slots on the school committee. Cynthia Corbett, Noah Escaler, Kimberly Sluter and Justin Sullivan are all seeking election to the three-year post. None of the candidates have served on the school committee before. All four candidates were recently asked a series of questions. Their responses follow. continued on next page...

The Reporter

March 2018

Reporter: What is your background and why do you feel you are qualified to be a member of the school committee? Corbett: I have lived in Seekonk for fourteen years. As a parent of two who are in the school system- one in high school and one in middle school- and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have vast experience working with community social services and systems. I have attended the school committee meetings and feel strongly that my professional experience and involvement in the schools will serve me well as a committee member. My previous experiences include being actively engaged both as a volunteer and board member of the PTO at Martin Elementary School. In the wider community, I served on the Board of the Friends of the Library, for approximately five years, and was then their liaison on the Meadows Committee. Escaler: I feel as though I am qualified to be a member of the School Committee. I am a lifelong resident of Seekonk. I am a middle school teacher with a master’s degree in Education/Special Education with an administrator’s certification. I currently serve as Vice-Chairperson of the Capital Improvement Committee within the town. I was an advocate and proponent of Full Day Kindergarten, participating in sub-committee meetings. I have attended and actively participated in many school committee meetings within the past five years. I have two young children in the school system presently and believe they as well as ALL children deserve the highest quality education, opportunities, course selections, electives, and extracurricular activities, with appropriate decisions and fiduciary duties that I will add to the committee. I would also be a diverse member as I have an educational background, an educator, advocate as a parent, and conservative as a taxpayer to look at issues/concerns with multi-lenses. I am very active and involved as a coach within the town, coaching our youth in soccer, baseball, and football. This in turn also facilitates conversations and relationships with parents, grandparents, and guardians pertaining to schools and it’s on goings. If elected I will make every effort to be available, approachable, and responsive to all citizens with any questions, concerns, ideas and suggestions as an elected official. Sluter: 12 years ago, my husband, Seekonk native, Matt Sluter and I made a very intentional decision to relocate and buy our first home in Seekonk. Like him, I was also raised in a close-knit community. I come from a family of education supporters. My mother is a first-grade teacher in NH and has been involved in her local education association and currently serves on the NEA NH board. My father served 4 school committee terms while I was growing up. Currently, I am a member of the Senior Leadership team at New England Construction. My ability to connect with a diverse group of employees, clients and consultants, negotiate win-win contracts, set and operate a fixed budget, develop and execute both short and long-term plans will be an asset to the School Committee. My husband and I currently have two sons attending Aitken School. Jack is in fourth grade and Charlie is in first grade. I am currently serving my second term on the School Council for Aitken School. I volunteer my time and resources at various events throughout the school year. I am a regular school committee meeting attendee. Over the last 10 years I have served various roles on the board of the Friends of the Seekonk Library. Sullivan: The last three years I have served on the Seekonk Finance Committee. During that time I was Chairperson and served as liaison to the School Committee. I also served on the Full Day Kindergarten Sub Committee. These roles have provided me the exposure to what is working for our schools and where there are areas of improvement. Professionally I have over 15 years management experience where I can help offer my assistance in strategy, finance, and problem solving. I have 1 child at Aitken with 2 more entering the system in the next 2 years.

Reporter: What do you see as the biggest challenge facing the Seekonk school system and the school committee in general? How would you address it? Corbett: We have a thriving school community. As a member of the school committee, I will work diligently to meet the demands of our growing student population and their changing educational needs. The school committee is immediately tasked with hiring a new superintendent and approving a budget that is both fiscally responsible and responsive to the needs of all our students, teachers, administrators and the community. These tasks will require being open to creative and collaborative problem solving. Escaler: One of the biggest challenges facing the Seekonk school district is the current retirement announcement of our Superintendent and Finance Director. We must search for a competent, knowledgeable and innovative Superintendent to lead our schools. We are also in need of a well-versed Finance Director who will work collaboratively with the members of the school committee, other boards/committees and Town Administrator. School budgeting and lack of space/infrastructure, are also concerns and a long-term plan needs to be implemented immediately. Other concerns pertain to the lack of communication between boards. This is concerning but certainly rectifiable with persistence and collaboration. I would propose that Quad-board meetings be held more than once a year. This collaboration would certainly mitigate any miscommunication between boards and serve as a proactive approach to simplify budgeting concerns. It would facilitate deeper understanding of the intricacies of each of the boards. This collaboration would ultimately bring many stakeholders together who have an immense array of talents and expertise to solve issues together. Sluter: Hands down, long term planning. We must plan for the future, not by attempting to predict it but by positioning the town and the school district to be ready for whatever the future brings. We can address this by selecting and supporting the new school Superintendent and then by reviewing his/her performance. The School Committee cannot govern well without the Superintendent’s collaboration and the Superintendent is less likely to lead effectively without the unflagging support of the School Committee. Seekonk must have more collaboration across town boards to create a stronger leadership team for our school district. By addressing long term planning we will tackle the large issues including facility space planning. Sullivan: There are a number of challenges facing the school system & committee but one cannot ignore the fact that year in and year out the Committee & Administration submit unreasonable budget requests knowing that it exceeds any funding that they are like to receive from the Town. When discussion of these “cuts” from the wish list ensues, this causes tension and mistrust among all the stakeholders in our community. As a result, it makes addressing challenges, like overcrowding and modular classrooms, a more difficult discussion. The budget process for our schools needs to be addressed immediately and not serve as a roadblock. Additionally, the School Committee needs to increase its communication with the Selectmen, Finance Committee, and the CIC in order to meet challenges head on with minimal surprises. It would be a lot easier with the support of the community to address the schools needs together. Reporter: What are the top three things you would like to accomplish during your term? Corbett: If offered the opportunity, I will work tirelessly to address the challenges while continuing to support the excellence and on-going enrichment of all of our youth. I will work to continue improving communication with other town boards and to help facilitate future planning. Escaler: I have many ideas that I would like to accomplish if elected as a member of the school committee. A. Safety is my priority in schools. I would make every effort to enable collaboration with the Seekonk Police Department to ensure

March 2018 The Reporter proper proactive/reactive parameters/procedures. This would ensure all students, teachers, and staff, know that they are safe and protected. Bearing in mind the current tragedy with school shootings, this is not a topic that should be forgotten or taken lightly. I also believe that parents/guardians should be given opportunity to be involved with transparency and knowledge of the protective measures to ensure their concerns of safety within our schools are acknowledged and answered. B. Secondly, I would with my expertise in Special Education, facilitate the Special Education director and administration in continuing program development and instill a philosophy that will benefit all students in either staying in district, or return to district, ultimately providing Least Restrictive Environment and substantial cost savings when comparing to today’s tuition costs per pupil. C. I would also utilize a budgeting system that will start the fiscal budget from zero, and/or from the ground up and focus on true needs for our schools and students. I am fiscally responsible/ conservative and certain with the implementation of these programmatic changes within the budget, that it would possibly retract fees in sports/transportation/etc that parents currently pay for some of our short falls/deficits within the school budget. Sluter: Good boards can get better. I want to be part of “getting better.” We need to create a stronger culture of candor, respect and inquiry. A. Set Direction: I want to build an environment for positive change to occur. This requires increased collaboration across town boards and engaging in public outreach. Hopefully this starts with increased voter participation in this election. B. Ensure and Protect Resources: The school district makes up 65% of the Town’s budget. We need to secure and conserve adequate financial resources. We all need to become more aware of the key financial drivers that generate resources, productivity and program quality. C. Action and Accountability: We can improve our meetings. We need to encourage a culture in which interested, highly engaged committee members and Seekonk residents are encouraged to ask questions and participate in constructive debate on vital issues and priorities. We need to be held accountable to action items identified in meetings. There are some improvements we can make to the way our agenda is organized. Sullivan: A. Deliver a level budget in line with reasonable increases based on the projected tax levy from the town. B. Find ways to bring more special education services in house while enhancing enrichment programs for all students. C. Develop a long solution to our space needs. Reporter: Do you have any specific changes you want to make in school district policies, programs, or the various school curricula being offered? If so, what changes do you want to make and why? Corbett: Did not answer this specific question Escaler: There are specific changes that I would like to implement concerning long term planning, school budgeting, and fees paid by parents due to deficits in the budget as well as a plethora of other areas. Seekonk administrators need to finalize the long term strategic plan in our schools. I have witnessed on many occasions motions and warrant articles that are presented impulsively and without short term or long-term plans in place. This unfortunately discredits the schools work both within the committee, as well as the administration. I would as a member recommend a deadline to a finalized a strategic plan conducive to the betterment of our schools. Grants or lack thereof including the Massachusetts School Building Authority have only recently been utilized and/or applied for by the school department. This form of grant/reimbursement needs to be applied for every time the schools go out for bids on continued on next page...

( 9 Years )

Paid for by David S. Parker

The Reporter

March 2018

capital improvements. Grants could be written to decrease budgeting burdens that the schools have had over the years. One suggestion would be to seek a qualified and/or certified grant writer. Continued program development in areas of Special Education and working closely with the out of district coordinator is imperative. I would also during my term strive to also eliminate fees encumbered by parents as I would hope my efforts within the school budget would mitigate the need for this payment in the future. These are just a few examples that could make an integral positive impact in our school department. Sluter: I’m here to make positive change and my approach is to fully commit to my duties as a school committee member. I view these duties in the following way. A. Duty of Care: Obligation to be reasonably informed, act in good faith, and be diligent in making decisions. B. Duty of Loyalty: Obligation to be accountable by putting any personal interests aside for the good of the students, families, Seekonk residents, administrators, educators and the Town. C. Duty of Obedience: Obligation to comply with legal, regulatory and reporting requirements to serve as a guardian to the mission of the school district. Sullivan: I am not focused on making specific policy changes, or curriculum changes in our schools. I am open to considering suggestions from teachers, administrators and parents.

www.

.com

The View from My Hill By Susan Boucher

As I step very gingerly from one era of my life (my working years) into the next era (my golden years) I find that I feel more gratitude than I have ever felt at any other stage of my life so far. Gratitude that I have managed to get to this age at all with relatively good health is high up on my gratitude list. I am also grateful of course that I have love of family in my life. And I am beyond grateful that I am able to wake up each day and not wonder how I am going to put food on the table. The list is indeed endless, and as I age, it grows longer. But one of the things I am most grateful for are memory triggers. I never realized there was a name to those smells, sounds and sights that can bring one back to a moment in time that had long been forgotten. But I have experienced them. And as I find myself approaching my later years, when my memory is not quite what it used to be, I am grateful for each and every nudge these triggers provide. We all have are familiar with that memory trigger of smell, when something cooking on a stove reminds us of a long-ago event perhaps a parent making dinner. A couple of years ago I had occasion to go into an old elementary school – still in service as a school, but definitely showing signs of its 60 plus years. I was hit by the smell of chalk boards and paper and it immediately transported me back to my own grade school days. What a lovely memory that was! And we have all experienced the trigger of sound when a song comes on the radio and we are reminded of a time in our life say of a dance or a wedding. The most recent memory trigger was a trigger of sight. It happened on a weekend trip to New Hampshire with two of my granddaughters. Many restaurants and shops up in the north country are still decorated for the holidays, since it is still winter up there. One night we were heading into a restaurant for dinner when I spotted a stuffed ‘snow person’ in the corner of the lobby. Standing something under three feet tall, this snow person was an exact duplicate of one I purchased some 15 years before – but until I saw this one, I had completely forgotten about it. It triggered the sweetest, clearest memory of being in K-Mart with my then 2-year-old granddaughter. Not a frequent K-Mart shopper, we stopped in to see if they had a certain kind of replacement bulbs for the light strings on my Christmas tree. We had already been to the late, great Benny’s and they didn’t have what I was looking for. So there we were walking down the center aisle of K-Mart when my granddaughter spotted this snow person. She immediately ran (this girl never walked) over to it and threw her tiny arms around it. I think she thought it was a doll to play with. Anyhow, as any other adoring grandparent might do, this snow person came home with us. I knew her Mom wouldn’t like me indulging my granddaughter once again, so I told a little white lie and convinced her it was a decoration for her house. Of course, my granddaughter had other plans for it and it quickly became her new friend. So, when I walked into that restaurant in New Hampshire with this same granddaughter, now 17, and saw this memory trigger, I was beyond grateful. Not to say that I don’t have many memories of this granddaughter at a young age, I do, but I always have room for one more. I am grateful for this night too, because she too is getting older. Soon she will be off to college and a career and there won’t be many more times that she will be able to fit a weekend away with her grandmother into her schedule. One day in the future I am sure I will once again walk into this restaurant, since it’s always been a favorite, and hopefully remember this night and this weekend. And I know once again, I will be grateful for any memory trigger I see.

March 2018 The Reporter

The Seekonk Scene Greetings from the Town Clerk’s office. It’s been a busy start to the New Year. We continue to process census forms and dog licenses. If you have not yet sent in or, dropped off your census please do so as soon as possible as it helps keep our records current. We’ve also been busy taking in and certifying nomination papers for the candidates running in the annual town election, which is right around Florice Craig the corner, April 2, 2018. Yes, the day after Easter. The polls will be open from 7:00am to 8:00pm and all voting takes place at the Seekonk High School gymnasium, 261 Arcade Ave. Please take the time and vote. It is important to support the candidates who are town residents who take the time to take out nominations papers and run for office. Your vote and voice make a difference. These people care about our community and want to work hard to maintain the wonderful town that Seekonk is. The last day to register to vote for this election is March 13. If you want to register to vote you can go online to www.123voter.com or come into the Clerk’s office. Below is a list of the candidates and the offices they are seeking as well as the two questions that will be on the ballot asking for a YES or NO vote. BOARD OF ASSESSORS For Three Years: PAUL K. BUCKLEY, Candidate for Re-election BOARD OF SELECTMEN For Three Years Vote for Two: DAVID F. VIERA, Candidate for Re-election; DAVID S. PARKER, Candidate for Re-election; CHRISTOPHER ZORRA HOUSING AUTHORITY For Five Years Vote for One LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES For Three Years Vote for Two : KATHERINE LUSSIER; SHARON M. CONNORS, Candidate for Re-election PLANNING BOARD For Five Years Vote for One: Phoebe Lee Dunn, Candidate for Re-election PLANNING BOARD For Four Years Vote for One SCHOOL COMMITTEE For Three Years Vote for Two: JUSTIN SULLIVAN ; KIMBERLY A. SLUTER; CYNTHIA E. CORBETT; NOAH ESCALER WATER COMMISSIONER For Three Years Vote for One: JEFFREY STARR MARARIAN; DAVID M. MELO

Cable 9 and the Library will be Hosting Events to Help You to Know the Candidates Better State Primary September 4, 2018

This office has also started the process of certifying nomination papers for the state primary being held on September 4, 2018. Yes, the day after Labor Day. So far we have received nomination papers for Steven S. Howitt who is running for re-election as Representative in General Court in the Fourth Bristol District. Nomination papers for the primary must be in by May 1, 2018 by 5pm.

“We have so much more to do to make our town and schools better for all of us.”

VOTE APRIL 2ND Paid for by David Viera

Vote on April 2nd

Question

“Do you agree with locating the M114, Howitzer Cannon that is on permanent loan from the Massachusetts Army National Guard, on the grounds of the Veterans Memorial Park, 400 Newman Avenue, adjacent to the Seekonk Public Library?” Yes or No

David M. Melo for Water Commissioner

Question

Shall the Town approve the charter amendment proposed by the Town Meeting summarized below? The November 13, 2017 Fall Annual Town Meeting voted to amend Article 3, Section 2 of the Charter. Currently, this section of the Charter prohibits an elected official from holding any other elected office. The amendment, if approved by the voters, will allow an elected official to also serve on a G.L. c43B elected Charter Commission. Yes or No

• Resident of Seekonk since 1999 • Married and the father of two children • 21 years experience as an employee of the East Providence Water Utilities Division • Licensed in Water Distribution (3D), Water Treatment (1T), Water Surveyor • Certified Backflow Tester Paid for by David M. Melo

The Reporter

March 2018

2018 Annual Rabies Clinic

The rabies clinic, for dogs and cats, will be held Saturday March 10, 9am – 12pm at the Seeking Public Works Department on the corner of Route 44 and Lake Street. The fee will be for the rabies vaccine $12.00 cash only. If you bring proof of a current rabies vaccine your animal will be eligible for a 3-year rabies vaccine. If you do not have proof your animal will be eligible for a 1-year vaccine. You will be able to drop off your dog license form with proof of rabies and payment. Your dog’s license will be processed the following week and mailed back to you. If you need a dog license form go to www.seekonk-m.gov and look under Forms and Documents, then click on Town Clerk, downloadable forms, dog licenses.

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Seekonk is such a great community especially when residents go out of their way to make a quick call and give a compliment. Recently several residents called and stopped by the office to say how wonderful they thought the Newman cemetery looked even during the winter months. On the flip side we have received phone calls not so complimentary. This office along with the cemetery caretaker try very hard to keep the cemetery neat and clean. For the people who are frustrated we would like to ask for your patience during the late days of winter. Graves can sink from the snow, rain and frost heaves. Mr. Borrelli “Skip” the care taker has assured me that he has and will continue to fill some of the sunken in areas. He is still cleaning up Christmas decorations as well as from the storm the other day that left tree branches and debris. His spring cleanup work will begin very soon. If you have any concerns or comments please do not hesitate to call our office we are always willing to listen and help in any way we can. Town Clerk’s Office (508) 336-2920. March has several annual events and holidays. To start us off right on the right foot March 11 daylight savings time begins. By the way, Benjamin Franklin tried to talk the French into adopting daylight savings time, but French farmers resisted the idea, insisting that cows could not change their habits. Then it’s on to March 17th for St. Patrick’s Day and then March 20 the long anticipated first day of spring. Lastly Good Friday falls on March 30th this year.

Save the Date

March 6 - Annual Taste of the Town sponsored by Kiwanis Club of Greater Seekonk, Inc. will be held at The Clarion Inn, 940 Fall River Ave. Seekonk. 6pm-9pm. There will be food, wine and beer tasting from the area’s finest restaurants. Tickets are available at the Town Clerks office or Bev Hart (508) 336-9352, Beverly Della Grotta (401) 749-4841 or Josephine Veader (508) 336-2921. Donation: $30.00 per ticket. March 10 - Annual Rabies Clinic - 9am -12pm at the DPW building on Route 6 Seekonk. March 24 – Household Hazardous Waste Day will be held on Saturday 9am-12pm Seekonk Town Hall 100 Peck St. Any questions contact the Seekonk Board of Health (508) 336-2950. April 2 - The Annual Town Election for Seekonk. The polls will be open from 7am – 8pm. All precincts vote at the Sr. High School 261 Arcade Ave. April 10,11,12 - The 31st Save A Pet Society, Inc. Annual Charity Auction will be held at the Ramada Inn 213 Taunton Ave. 6:30pm -10pm. May 14 -Town Meeting will be held on Monday 7pm at the Seekonk High School auditorium 261 Arcade Ave.

496 Winthrop St, Rehoboth MA

Did you know?

The history of tags and licensing for dogs goes back to Thomas Jefferson. He wrote the first dog licensing law for his home state of Virginia, not because dogs were leaving presents on his lawn, but because dogs were killing his sheep. The idea was to identify the dog’s owner and make them pay for the sheep they killed. By the 1850s most localities had dog licensing laws that require dogs to wear a collar with the owners name and license COMMITMENT number. Eventually small wooden or metal • WILLING TO LISTEN discs were used and referred to as dog tags. Our office welcomes inquiries from all • WORK TOGETHER FOR citizens seeking assistance or information SOLUTIONS in relation to services provided by the Town • RESPECT FOR ALL of Seekonk. STUDENTS Take heart Spring is almost here!

VOTE CYNTHIA CORBETT SEEKONK SCHOOL COMMITTEE EXPERIENCE

SERVICE

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March 2018 The Reporter

Seekonk Household Hazardous Waste Day

Saturday March 24th 9am–12pm Seekonk Town Hall – 100 Peck Street Seekonk Board of Health 508-336-2950

General Information:

Registration will open on March 9th – Please visit the www.seekonk-ma.gov and click on the registration link to the left of the page. Registration will be limited to the first 115 registrants. Time slots are approved on a first come first serve basis. The Seekonk Board of Health reserves the right to close the event once the threshold for collectibles has been met. Medications can be disposed of year round at the Seekonk Public Safety Complex. Medical Sharps Containers can be purchased at the Seekonk Board of Health for $8.00. These Items will not be collected at the event. Acceptable Items: Paints, Polishes & Varnishes, Turpentine, Aerosol Cans, Car Batteries Pesticides, Adhesives, Pool Chemicals, Lawn Chemicals, Compressed Gas Cylinders, and Many More! Items Accepted Year Round at Dept. of Public Works: Motor Oil, Antifreeze, Mercury Articles, Batteries, Fluorescent Light Bulbs, Fire Extinguishers Items Not Accepted: Computers/Electronics, Explosives, Ammunition, Medications, Medical Waste, Commercial/Industrial Waste

Seekonk Fire Museum Opens for the 2018 Season The Seekonk Fire Museum will be opening for its second season on Saturday, April 7 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. Come and visit and enjoy the antique fire equipment and many photos and memorabilia on the history of firefighting in Seekonk. The museum is pleased to announce that two of its past members, Howard Sweet and Richard Lundgren, have returned to the Association. They are a wealth of firefighting information and are happy to share their stories with anyone visiting the museum. Several new photos and other items have been added to the museum this year. The Museum’s schedule will be the same as last year. It is open the first Saturday of the month from April to September 10 a.m. to 12 noon. Additional special openings are available on request with two weeks notice. The museum is located at the former Station #3 headquarters at 211 Newman Avenue. It is run by the Central Volunteer Fire Association. For additional information, contact Bill George at 508-951-1398.

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The Reporter March 2018

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The annual Litter Patrol clean-up has been planned to coincide with Earth Day each year, so this year the event will be held on April 21, 2018, from 9am to 12 noon. We are sending this message early in March, as the Household Hazardous Waste Collection Date will be on March 24th this year instead of April as in past years. Volunteers for the Litter Patrol are requested to call the Recycling Line at 508-336-8523, or by emailing our office at wkirchmann@ seekonk-ma.gov to reserve the clean-up supplies and the area to be worked.

Seekonk Parks and Recreation Offers Crafts Program for Kids and Seniors at New Location

If you are looking for a new, fun activity, Seekonk Parks and Recreation offers arts and crafts programs for children and seniors. The programs are now held in the community room at the new Seekonk Senior Center, 540 Arcade Ave. They are drop-in programs so families can stop by when their schedule allows. The craft program for children runs every Saturday from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. It is for children 6+ years old and the cost is $3 per hour. There is a new and different craft every week. Some of the past crafts that children have created include no-sew pillows, bookmarks, collages, flower seed and herb planting, pine cone birdfeeders, valentine heart dishes and much more. A more advanced craft project is offered for ages 12+ on the first Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. The cost is based on the project and the upcoming craft is advertised ahead of time on the departmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website. Past projects have included a Halloween wreath, a fall pumpkin floral, a wood snowman, a winter pinecone wreath and a valentine floral. In March, they will be working on a spring wreath. A craft class is also offered for members of the Senior Center every Monday afternoon from 2:15-4:15 p.m. There is a small fee for participants: $3 for residents and $5 for non-residents. There are also plans to start an adult craft class once a month. Details will be forthcoming. Satellite Office: Anyone interested can visit the website, seekonkrecreation. Medical AssociatesItof Inc. com, for more information. is RI, also recommended to confirm class 950 Warren Ave., Suiteby #104 / E. Prov., RI 02914 Satellite dates andOffice: availability visiting the website. Medical Associates RI, Inc. (401)of228-7887 950 Warren Ave., Suite #104 / E. Prov., RI 02914 Fax# 253-3131 (401)(401) 228-7887 Fax# (401) 253-3131

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March 2018 The Reporter

Events & Activities Rehoboth Garden Club Free Informational Meeting March 5th

As one of our civic contributions to Rehoboth’s 375th Anniversary, the Rehoboth Garden Club is inviting Massachusetts residents to attend a free, informational meeting about money and energy saving home improvements. This program will take place on Monday, March 5, 2018 at 1 PM at Goff Hall, 124 Bay State Road, Rehoboth. Since the mid-1970s all our electricity bills have included small fees that go into a fund called Mass Save. Mass Save in turn contracts out to several companies that offer electric customers free or substantially subsidized goods and services. At our meeting a representative from Homeworks Energy, which services our area, will talk about free home energy audits, which include replacing your home’s light bulbs and thermostats with the most efficient ones, at no charge. Attendees who would like to speak with a representative or schedule an energy audit will be able to do so after the 30 minute presentation. **Author’s note - At my home energy audit, the Homeworks representative was Rehoboth resident Tom Hastings. He was extremely professional and knowledgeable. He thoroughly assessed our home, then sat with my husband and I to discuss his findings. He then replaced 86 light bulbs throughout our home, all for free. The energy saving improvements he recommended were later done by a Homeworks construction team. Of the total cost, we paid approximately 10%, with Mass Save funds paying the remaining 90%. There are no hidden fees, gimmicks or strings attached. This is truly a valuable opportunity that our club is proud to share with our community. There is no charge to attend, but a food item contribution for the Rehoboth Food Pantry would be greatly appreciated. For more information call Linda McHugh at 508-252-9768. We hope to see you there!

Daurov/Myer Duo

Kiwanis Club of Greater Seekonk

22nd Taste of the Towns

Performing Works by Beethoven, Mendelssohn, and Prokofiev for cello & piano

Tuesday, March 6th from 6-9pm

Kiwanis Club of Greater Seekonk is sponsoring their 22nd Taste of the Towns on Tuesday, March 6, 2018 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Grand Rose Ballroom in the Clarion Inn, 940 Fall River Avenue (route 114A), Seekonk. Restaurants offering samples of their menus include: Applebee’s, Bone Yard Barbeque, Buffalo Wings, Chick-fil-A, Clarion Inn, Country Kitchen, Davenport’s, Ds’Lectables, Honey Dew Donuts, Lemon & Oil, Longhorn Steakhouse, Old Grist Mill, Sullivan’s Publick House, Toti’s, Tropical Smoothies, Wharf Tavern and Young’s Catering. The Dublin Rose Sports Bar will offer Wine and Beer Tasting. There will be raffles of gifts from the various vendors and local businesses and a 50/50 raffle. We would like to thank our GOLD SPONSOR Herb Chambers of Seekonk for his generous support. Also, thanks go to our SILVER SPONSORS: Angell Street Dental, Blu-Sky Real Estate, Frank Casarella DMD, Lisa Daft DMD and Associates, Michael Gross Chiropractic, Beverly Haley, Horizon Beverage Group, State Representative Steve S. Howitt, Lynn Kent Certified Medium, and David & Lisa Spencer Atlantic Paper Company. Tickets are $30 and are available from Beverly Della Grotta at 401-749-4841 or dellagrotta24@aol.com, Bev Hart at 508-336-9352 or russellhart@comcast.net, or the town clerk’s office at 508-3362921. Kiwanis is a world-wide organization dedicated to helping children and their communities. For questions or information call Bev Hart.

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The Reporter March 2018

Spring Wreath Making Event to Benefit the Dighton-Rehoboth Marching Band

Rehoboth PTSA 10th Annual Silent Auction Fundraiser

Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School Cafeteria 2700 Regional Road Dighton, MA

Friday, March 9; 7 – 11 p.m.

Thursday, March 8; 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tickets $41.00

Pamela Salisbury, owner of Anawan Farm in Rehoboth, MA. All supplies included, just bring your imagination and desire to have fun, be creative and all while supporting the marching band! Tickets must be purchased online at store.anawanfarm.com by Tuesday 3/6/2018. Don’t miss out on all the fun! Sponsored by the DRMB Boosters Special thanks to Anawan Farm for supporting our band! **Participants are asked to BYOS (bring your own scissors). Light snacks and beverages will be provided.. Email clerk@drmbboosters.org with any questions.

Hillside Country Club, 82 Hillside Avenue, Rehoboth, MA 02769 All proceeds directly benefit our students Tickets are $25.00; Ticket price includes Food Stations, Cash Bar, Silent Auction Items Raffle Chances, Music and Dancing Take a chance to win our door prize! Please return form found in the March Rehoboth Reporter to school with your payment in an envelope marked “Silent Auction Tickets.” You will receive your ticket at check-in on the night of the Auction. If space allows, tickets will be sold at the door for $30.00 each. Contacts: Susan Bogosian (774)-565-0188, srbogo@comcast. net or Jenn Moitoso (401)-286-2859, jmoitoso@comcast.net.

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Rep. Steven Howitt Holds Office Hours in Seekonk & Rehoboth

State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R- Seekonk) is holding office hours in Rehoboth and Seekonk to give constituents the opportunity to discuss current issues and concerns on the following dates and locations: Thursday, March 8th: Gladys L. Hurrell Rehoboth Senior Center from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. 55 Bay State Road, Rehoboth, MA in the conference room. Friday, March 9th: Seekonk Town Hall from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. 100 Peck Street, Seekonk, MA 02771 in the Select Board meeting room. Anyone unable to attend Representative Howitt’s office hours may also contact his office at (617) 722-2305 and schedule an appointment.

Rehoboth Contra Dance Friday, March 9 at 8 p.m.

There will be a Rehoboth contra dance on Friday, March 9, at 8:00 p.m. at Goff Memorial Hall, 124 Bay State Road, Rehoboth, MA 02769. All dances will be taught by caller Chris Ricciotti. Music will be performed by Amy Larkin, Glen Loper, and Bethany Waickman. Beginners welcome. Partners not necessary. $9; $8 students. For information, call 508-252-6375; http://www.contradancelinks.com/rehoboth.html.

Rehoboth Station 2 Firefighters Association 10th Annual Corned Beef and Cabbage Dinner

Rehoboth Fire Station #2, 333 Tremont Street Saturday, March 10 Serving Time 6:00 p.m. Tickets $12.00 Each. No walk-ins. See Any Station 2 Firefighter for Tickets or Call (508) 226-2914, (508) 252-3132

March 2018 The Reporter

Town of Seekonk Rabies Clinic

American Form Corp.

Saturday, March 10; 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Public Works Department Garage on Rt. 44 and Lake Street

FEE: $12.00 per Animal – Cash Only Accepted For Vaccinations

The Rabies clinic is open to non-residents and Seekonk animal owners. Cats must be in carriers, dogs on leashes. For MA animal owners, in order to be issued a MA three-year Rabies certificate you must bring either a certificate for a Rabies vaccination dated between 3/11/17 and 6/11/17, or a previous MA three year Rabies certificate from your veterinarian. You can also bring last year’s Rabies certificate as documentation. For RI animal owners, in order to be issued a RI three-year certificate you must bring a two year certificate of prior Rabies vaccinations on your animal. Without this documentation the certificate issued at the Rabies clinic will carry a one-year expiration date. The clinic is open to dogs, cats and ferrets. Dr. Truesdale from Central Ave Veterinary Hospital will be administering the vaccinations. Proceeds will benefit the Seekonk Animal Control Department The 2018 dog licenses will be sold at the clinic. Proof of current Rabies vaccination is required. (License fees may be paid by check.) The 2018 dog license is due April 1, 2018, and is late after May 31, 2018. The fees are: spayed female/neutered male $10.00 and unspayed female/unneutered male $20.00. Victoria Kinniburgh RN, Chairman - Board of Health

We are Painting on Rocks to Benefit “Service Dogs for Veterans” Sunday, March 11th

A Painting Party will be held, Sunday March 11th at the Seekonk American Legion located at 351 Fall River Ave, 2nd floor, Seekonk, MA. We will be mandala painting on 2 white rainforest rocks. One will be a paw print and the other either a heart or flower. Doors open at noon with painting starting at 1 pm. Tickets include all materials and one free beverage. There will be a cash bar. Reservations must be made in advance by March 4th in the amount of $40.00 per person. Seating is limited to 35 people. Please make checks payable to: American Legion Auxiliary, Unit 311 and mail to Donna Beaulieu at 5 Cross Street, Rehoboth, MA 02769. The nonrefundable tickets will be mailed upon receipt of reservation. Please send any questions to auxiliary311@yahoo.com or Donna.Beaulieu@yahoo.com or call/text Donna at 401-451-1944. Proceeds from the event will go to “Service Dogs for Veterans”.

St. Patrick’s Breakfast

Sunday, March 11th, 8 am to 11 am

Come on down to the Seekonk American Legion for an all you can eat St Patrick’s breakfast on Sunday, March 11th put on by the Sons of the American Legion. The $7.00 a person breakfast includes scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, homefries, toast, orange juice and coffee. Tickets are available in advance at the Legion and at the door. Serving from 8 am to 11 am. The Legion Post is located at 351 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA. For additional information please call 508-336-9822.

Spring Psychic Fair

Saturday, March 24th, 10am-4pm

Admission is free. There will be several Readers and each Reading is $ 20.00. There will also be several Vendors. The hours are from 10 am to 4 pm. The Psychic Fair will be take place at the Seekonk American Legion Post located at 351 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA. Proceeds to benefit the American Legion Auxiliary programs for our Veterans, community and children.

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The Reporter March 2018

Rehoboth Community Dance March 18, from 7 to 9 p.m.

Craft and Yard Sale

Saturday, May 19th, 9:00am - 3:00pm

* FREE * On Sunday evening, March 18, from 7 to 9 p.m., there will be a community dance held at Goff Memorial Hall, 124 Bay State Road, in Rehoboth. This dance is hosted by the Sunday Night Jammers, a group of area musicians who meet regularly on Sunday evenings at Goff Hall to play music rooted in Celtic and other traditions. The March 18 dance will feature contra dance steps and a variety of international and couple dances, such as polkas and waltzes. All dance steps will be taught. Admission is free and open to the public. Beginners and families are welcome, with the recommended dance age of 6 and up. It is not necessary to come with a partner. A potluck precedes the dance at 6 p.m. For information, contact Bob Elliott at Bobolinkelliott@ yahoo.com or call 774-644-1369. http://www.contradancelinks. com/jammers.html

Craft and Yard Sale is planned for Saturday, May 19, 2018 from 9:00am until 3:00pm. Rain date May 26th. Event to be held on the grounds of the Gladys L. Hurrell Senior Center, 55 Bay State Road, Rehoboth, MA 02769 Vendors must have own tables, chairs, canopies and take home what is not sold. Spaces are $15.00. To reserve a space send a non-refundable payment of $5.00 made out to The Rehoboth Senior Citizens Club, Inc. and mail in care of the senior center. For questions please call Diana 508 336-4195 or Lorraine 508 916-0971. Proceeds to benefit The Rehoboth Senior Citizens Club.

Suicide Prevention Program

There will be a Rehoboth contra dance on Friday, March 23, at 8:00 p.m. at Goff Memorial Hall, 124 Bay State Road, Rehoboth, MA 02769. All dances will be taught by caller Lisa Greenleaf. Music will be performed by Heyday, with Amy and Jonathan Larkin and George and Shirley White. Beginners welcome. Partners not necessary. $9; $8 students. For information, call 508-252-6375; http://www.contradancelinks.com/rehoboth.html.

Monday, March 19th 6:00 pm to 7:45 pm

In collaboration with the Bristol County Regional Coalition for Suicide Prevention, Community Counseling of Bristol County & the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office, the Greater Attleboro Area Suicide Prevention Coalition invites the general public to come to:

Rehoboth Contra Dance Friday, March 23, 8 p.m.

A Community Conversation

Speakers will address issues of loss, grief and healing, suicide attempts and recovery, and new, innovative wellness check options & trainings for a variety of impacted people including new resilience based & creativity focused projects for teens. Please join us for this public health forum. Location: Blanding Public Library 124 Bay State Road Rehoboth, MA 02769 Questions? Contact Jaime Conlon, RN Rehoboth Public Health Nurse 508-252-5947 x3127 jconlon@town.rehoboth.ma.us

Arts in the Village Presents The Daurov/Myer Duo March 24

On Saturday, March 24, Arts in the Village will present a performance by the Daurov/Myer Duo. Since their formation in 2012, cellist Adrian Daurov and pianist Spencer Myer have explored and performed three centuries of masterworks from the repertoire for their respective instruments, both solo and in combination. For their first appearance in the Arts in the Village series, they will be presenting works by Beethoven, Foss, Mendelssohn, and Prokofiev. At the age of 15, Daurov made his debut as soloist with the St. Petersburg State Symphony Orchestra in his native city. Subsequently, he earned top honors at three international competitions: Bulgaria’s 1st International Music Competition (First Prize, 1996), the Netherlands’ Peter De Grote International Music Competition (Grand Prix, 2002), and New York City’s LISMA International Music Competition (First Prize, 2004). In 2004, he toured as a soloist with the St. Petersburg Chamber Orchestra, performing in St. Petersburg, Moscow, Warsaw, and throughout Germany and was appointed to the dual position of principal cellist and soloist with the Bayreuth Youth Festival Orchestra. In 2008, he was a featured participant in a gala Carnegie Hall concert celebrating Russia’s Independence Day. In 2012, he formed his own ensemble, the award-winning Voxare Quartet, with which he still tours. Gold Medalist of the 2008 New Orleans International Piano Competition, Myer has been soloist with numerous orchestras all across the United States, as well as Mexico’s Orquesta Filarmónica de Jalisco, South Africa’s Cape Town and Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestras, and Beijing’s China National Symphony Orchestra. His recital appearances have been presented in New York City’s Weill Recital Hall, 92nd Street Y and Steinway Hall, Philadelphia’s Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, and London’s Wigmore Hall, among many others. A Steinway artist, Myer has collaborated with members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Chamber Music Series and at the Bard, Blossom, Cape Cod Chamber, Colorado, Meadowlark, Mendocino and Skaneateles music festivals, and many others. As an educator, he has been a frequent guest artist at workshops for students and teachers, including the 2013 National Conference of the Music Teachers National Association, where he was the Convention Artist.

March 2018 The Reporter This concert will take place on Saturday, March 24, at 7:30 p.m., at Goff Memorial Hall, 124 Bay State Road, in Rehoboth, MA 02769. Admission is $18 for adults, $16 for seniors, and $8 for students and children. The doors open at 7:00 p.m. for a wine bar, and tickets are available at the door. First-come, first-seated. Cash and checks only. Information: 508-463-5384; http://www.rehobothantiquarian. org/arts-in-the-village/. This program is supported in part by a grant

Rehoboth Challenging Contra Dance Friday, March 30, 8 p.m.

There will be a Rehoboth challenging contra dance on Friday, March 30, at 8:00 p.m. at Goff Memorial Hall, 124 Bay State Road, Rehoboth, MA 02769. Will Mentor will lead this once-a-year challenging dance, which is geared toward experienced dancers. It is assumed that dancers are already familiar with the dance patterns, and there will be less instruction. Music will be performed by Dave Langford and Karen Axelrod. Partners not necessary. $9; $8 students. For information, call 508-252-6375; http://www. contradancelinks.com/rehoboth.html.

Anawan Fire Association 4th Annual New England Clam Boil Saturday March 31st, 7:00 PM

Sponsored By Anawan Fire Association South Seekonk Rod & Gun Club, 61 Reed St, Rehoboth, MA Tickets - $30.00 Each, Prizes Will Be Raffled Tickets Only – No Walk-Ins For Tickets Call (508) 226-2914 or E-Mail DERICKRFD@ gmail.com

Sacred Harp (Shape Note) Singing in Celebration of Rehoboth’s 375th Anniversary

Local Sacred Harp singers and the Rehoboth Antiquarian Society invite you to attend a Singing School and Sacred Harp Singing from 7 p.m. till 9 p.m. at Goff Hall, 123 Bay State Road, on April 10th 2018. This living singing tradition, with its unique system of notation, dates to the First New England School of American Composers. Among this group were well known early American composers and singing school masters William Billings, Jeremiah Ingalls, Justin Morgan and Daniel Read. Born in Rehoboth in 1757, Daniel Read earned his living composing, publishing, and selling his music and running a general store after moving to New Haven, and the evening will include the tune he named for his native town. Join us for a Singing School on the Rudiments of Music followed by singing from The Sacred Harp. No singing experience is necessary to participate in this community event. This kind of social singing is just plain fun and everyone is welcome. Books will be available to borrow. There will be pot luck snacks to share at the break. Admission is free but donations will be accepted to benefit local Sacred Harp singing. For more information, please contact rehobothantiquarian@

Seekonk Police Union Launch Fundraiser

The Seekonk Police Union will be conducting a fundraising campaign. For the next few weeks area businesses and residents will be contacted and asked to sponsor a business advertisement or family listing in The Seekonk Police Union, 2018 Police Yearbook / Business Directory which will be available at their upcoming Benefit Hockey Game. The game will feature former greats of the Boston Bruins vs. members of the Seekonk Police and Fire department. Bru-

ins players will be available for autographs and Bruins memorabilia will be available at the game. The game will be held Sunday April 15th at 1:00PM at New England Sports Village, 1395 Commerce Way, Attleboro. This will be a great afternoon of entertainment for all families in the Seekonk area! Admission is $25.00 for adults and $10.00 for children under 12. Tickets will be available at the box office the day of the game. Tickets will also be given away complimentary with a donation to the Seekonk Police Union fundraising campaign and additional tickets can be purchased by calling Pat at (401)737-3639. We would also like to take this time to thank the members of our community who have generously supported our local police, year in and year out. Without your support, we could not support the many community projects we participate in every year.

Seekonk Lions Club Sixth Annual Doug Allan Fishing Tournament

Are we getting ready for the spring? It will be only a few more weeks before it’s time to break out the fishing poles. Are you young anglers ready to pull in some trout and win a few prizes? Well, mark your calendars as the Seekonk Lions Club’s Sixth Annual Doug Allan Fishing Tournament will be held on Patriots Day Monday, April 16, 2018 at the Old Grist Mill Pond RT 114A in Seekonk 9:00AM till 11:00am. Open for all children through high school in the area. More details coming soon. Any questions or if you would like to help/donate or volunteer please email seekonkfishingtournament@yahoo.com. Local Businesses: If you would like to donate some items for prizes and/ or be part of a sponsorship, please contact Paul Buckley at p5150@comcast.net or George Poli at geopoli@verizon.net.

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The Reporter March 2018

Auditions For Rehoboth 375 Talent Show

Sunday, March 11 and 25 at 1 PM DRRHS Auditorium

Rehoboth has many talented people. If you are 13 years of age or older, please audition for the Rehoboth Talent Show to be held on Saturday, May 5 at DRRHS. Arrive for your audition ready to perform. All acts considered. Those chosen to perform in the judged Talent Show with prizes for first, second and third place winners. You must be pre-registered by email to audition. Include your name, contact info, age, and describe your act. You may include one photograph and/or link to a video. To register or get more information, email: TalentShow@ Rehoboth375.com.

Carpenter Museum Presents 375 Anniversary Lectures March and April Details to Come

Keep Rehoboth Beautiful Roadside Clean-Up Campaign Month of April

All residents are encouraged to help clean up roadside debris and litter. This town-side campaign is brought to you the Rehoboth 375 Committee, Rehoboth Litter Prevention Initiative, and the Rehoboth Business Association. Details to come.

Chef Chicoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Surprise Supper Saturday, April 14

American Legion Post 302 The Rehoboth 375 Committee hosts this family friendly fundraising supper to benefit the Rehoboth 375 Parade Fund. Details to come.

Rehoboth Historic Home Tour Saturday, May 19 10AM-2PM

Various Locations in Rehoboth The Rehoboth 375 Committee and Rehoboth Historical Commission are hosting a tour of historic Rehoboth homes. More information to come.

Rehoboth 375 Carnival Saturday, June 23

Details to Come. This family fundraiser will benefit the 375 Parade.

Rehoboth 375 Clam Bake Saturday, July 21

Francis Farm Everyone is invited to Francis Farm to enjoy a longe Rehoboth tradition - the clam bake. Other meal options will be available including chicken dinners, hot dogs and hamburgers. Cash bar. This fundraiser will benefit the 375 Parade.

Rehoboth 375 Golf Tournament Saturday, August 4

Multiple Rehoboth Golf Courses This unique golf tournament will be held simultaneously at multiple courses in Rehoboth. This fundraiser will benefit the 375 Parade.

Rehoboth Minutemen Present a History Timeline Encampment Saturday, September 22

Nike Park This is a rare opportunity to step back in time with historic re-enactors representing periods of time from the early Rehoboth colony. Learn about the people who lived during the Revolutionary War, Civil War, through modern day.

Rehoboth 375 Parade Sunday, October 7

Ghost Story Telling October 2018

Blanding Library

March 2018 The Reporter

Spring Home & Garden Spring into Lawn and Garden Care

(Family Features) If cooler weather has you longing for sunny days outdoors, take heart. Once spring rolls around, you can safely begin the annual cleanup to prepare your yard for months of warmweather enjoyment. Start by evaluating your lawn. Look for bald spots where grass has grown sparsely and needs reseeding, or uneven areas that may need to be filled and leveled. Before you take steps to correct any problems, you’ll need a clean slate. Clear the yard of any leaves, rocks or sticks that may have accumulated then cut the grass as short as you can. Use a thatching rake to remove dead roots and grass. Break up the soil in bare spots to create an environment that will be hospitable to new seed. Add lawn soil to level the surface. You’ll also need to apply an herbicide to treat weed-infested areas. Allow the weed killer to work for about a week then rake again to remove dead weeds. Then you’re ready to over-seed or spot seed, depending on your lawn’s needs. Your climate will determine the best grass variety for your yard. Be sure to select and apply a fertilizer that is consistent with your grass type and water thoroughly to promote deep root growth, which can help your lawn withstand extreme conditions as temperatures rise. Your lawn isn’t the only part of your yard that needs attention during the spring months, though. Your garden and flower beds may need some care before they, too, are ready to burst with new bounty and color. Begin by clearing your garden and beds of any debris like leaves David Perry, Owner/Operator and other matter that piled up during months of neglect. Gently turn the soil and work in fresh fertilizer. Before your plants and flowers are in full-growth mode is the ideal time to make repairs. Check edging for any damage, replace rotted woodwork and complete any other maintenance tasks. As for the plants, prune before the first buds sprout to minimize stress. You can also start indoor seeds, and early spring Built by Hand for Custom Fit, Pre-assembled for Easy Installation is the time to divide perennials and plant some hardier vegetables, such as onions and potatoes. The warmer months may still seem far away, but getting some of your lawn and garden care underway now can make those warmer, sunny days feel closer in no time. Find more seasonal tips for prepping your yard at eLivingToday.com.

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5 ‘Smart’ Ways To Tackle Your Spring Cleaning

(BPT) - Pull back the drapes, crack open the window and let in the warm, sun-soaked air. That’s right, spring is right around the corner and that means it’ll soon be time to chase away the grime and odors that have settled in over the long winter. For many, spring cleaning is something of a tradition, a ritual. But things have changed. The days of dipping an old mop

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The Reporter March 2018

Spring Home into a tin bucket filled with gray water belong to another era. In the age of smart cars and smartphones, cleaning has become smarter as well. Here are a few smart innovations that will make your spring cleaning routine much more efficient and thorough. 1. Freshen up your style. A change in seasons is the perfect time to change up your wardrobe. Take advantage of this transitional period to purge items you haven’t worn in 12 months or more be honest with yourself! When you’re free of unnecessary items, indulge in a trip to a specialty store offering storage and organization products to uncover new space-saving solutions. Unsure of what to get rid of? If a beloved item just needs a little love, run it through a steam-powered clothing care system like the LG Styler or delicates cycle in the LG TWINWash system - both certified by AAFA as asthma and allergy friendly(R) - to see if it’s salvageable. 2. Breathe easy. It’s easy to spend the lion’s share of your time trying to tackle the stains, dust and smudges in your home. However, one of the most important parts of your home to clean is the part you can’t see. We’re talking about air quality, of course. Opening windows and placing plants around your home is a good

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March 2018 The Reporter

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Spring For expanded control over the amount of light and warmth that enters or leaves your rooms, solar-powered skylight blinds are available in more than 100 designer colors and patterns. Like the skylights, Velux solar-powered blinds are operated with the remote. The solar products and installation costs are also eligible for a 30-percent federal tax credit. Learn more at whyskylights.com. Finish the basement. Adding finished square footage to your home is nearly always a way to increase its value. For many homes, the basement is the most practical place to gain that space. Instead of using it as a collection ground for dust bunnies and storage, converting it into usable space can bring meaningful value, not only in dollars and cents, but in overall enjoyment of your home. A basement is the perfect location for expanded room to live and entertain, and if you have egress or other windows, adding extra bedrooms may also be an option. When making plans for finishing a basement, keep function first. Adding features like bathrooms can be costly if the plumbing isn’t already in place, but having ready access to those facilities may pay off if you plan to spend lots of time downstairs. Also keep climate in mind; in many parts of the country basements tend to be damp, so be sure to use materials that can withstand the conditions during the rainy season.

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March 2018

The Reporter

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The Reporter March 2018

The Rehoboth Antiquarian Society News

P.O. Box 2, 4 Locust Ave., Rehoboth, MA Phone: 508-252-3031 Web: www.carpentermuseum.org Email: carpentermuseum@gmail.com

The Carpenter Museum... Rehoboth Land Trust Annual Meeting Speakers E.O. Dyer and Betsey Dyer March 5, 2018, at 7 PM

51 Winthrop Street (Route 44), Rehoboth MA

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Join us at the Carpenter Museum on March 5, 2018, at 7 PM if you’re interested in land protection in Rehoboth and would enjoy meeting other like-minded residents. The RLT’s work is supported through the volunteer efforts and generous donations of its members and friends. To date, we have conserved over 650 acres, provided public access to open space, and continued to work with property owners to preserve the landscape and conserve natural resources that benefit the community. In December, the Rehoboth Land Trust received our largest gift of land, from longtime Rehoboth residents, Jean and E. Otis Dyer, Sr. and the late E.O. Dyer Jr. of Fairview E. Otis Dyer, Sr. Avenue. The 433 acres of Squannakonk Swamp, to be named the Roy Wheaton Horton Preserve, lies to the south of Route 44 and comprises many parcels acquired by the Dyers over many years. E. Otis Dyer Sr., land surveyor, and his daughter Betsey Dexter Dyer, Professor of Biology at Wheaton College, will share stories and answer questions about how this important assemblage of wetlands and uplands grew and became a protected refuge for wildlife and land for outdoor enthusiasts to explore. E.O. Dyer, 91, is also an historian and author with a unique perspective and knowledge of Rehoboth to share. His book, “Swamp Yankee,” describes Squannakonk Swamp in detail and tells the tale of how true Squannakonk Swamp Yankee Roy Wheaton Horton played an influential role in E.O. Dyer’s life. Books will be available to purchase or to order, or bring your own copy to be signed.

Everyday Life in 17th-Century New England Wednesday, April 18, 6PM

Contact: 508-252-3031, programs@RehobothAntiquarian.org John McNiff, Park Ranger at the Roger Williams National Memorial, will explore what everyday life was like for the English colonists who came to New England in the 17th century, including the founders of Rehoboth. Why did they choose to come here? Where did they get their food? Their tools and clothes? What hardships did they face? You may be surprised to discover that 17th-century colonists had many of the same cares and worries of people today. This program is supported in part by a grant from the Rehoboth Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.

Rehoboth Antiquarian Society Scholarship

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The Rehoboth Antiquarian Society (RAS) will award a scholarship to one or more students accepted by or enrolled in a postsecondary program related to museum or library studies. This may include museum or library science, history, archeology, anthropology, conservation, restoration, preservation, etc. Applicants from the greater Rehoboth area may apply, and the funds will be applied to the second semester of the 2018-2019 academic year. The award of up to $1,000 is a one-time commitment by the RAS and all applicants will be informed of the Scholarship Committee’s decision by July 31, 2018. Additional information and an application may be found on the scholarship website. http://www.rehobothantiquarian. org/ras-scholarship/

March 2018

The Reporter

Club News & announcements

Rehoboth Anawan Lions Club News

The Rehoboth Anawan Lions club held its recent meeting on February 15th at the M and D Restaurant with President Laura Schwall presiding. The President held a board meeting to vote on moneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s needed to donate for a fire family due to a fire, voted for a donation to the Pop Warner football, voted for a donation to Rehoboth Youth B&S A. Members who are able to help out at the eye glasses washing coming up were given the dates and where the event is being held March 5 and March 15th. This is a district event and is to help out the Eye Mobile committee get the glasses cleaned and packed to send out to the needy. It is a very important event that is done before they are sent out to those in need. Thank you to all who help out it is appreciated. Two dates for Marion Manor where we go for the Bingo games for the patients. We have been doing this for twenty five years or more and it is appreciated. February 21st has already been completed and in March we will be there on the 21st. Thanks to all who go to help this be a successful event. We will be having our usual Moms Pampering raffle for Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day so watch for those raffle tickets to go on sale. The basket will have tickets on sale at our bake sale coming up as well. The bake sale for Easter will be at the Bristol County Bank on March 31, a Saturday. See you there. Our Peace Poster Chairman Mary Ann Parella went to the D L Beckwith School to present the winner of the Peace Poster contest and her poster represented our club. She was presented with $50 for the poster from our club and then submitted at the mid-winter convention where all the clubs from district 33s chose the one to be sent to the next contest. The club thanks and congratulates Kylie Hiltie on a great job she did on the poster. Every one has a chance to enter when the contest is announced that they are looking for posters, watch for the announcement next year. Dates for next month.....March1st, 2018......meeting at Presidents home. March 14..twin with Rehoboth Lions......March 15..Rehoboth Anawan Lions meeting at M&D restaurant ....corn beef and cabbage........March 31st Easter Bake Sale at the Bank.....Easter is April 1st this year and that not an April fool either! See You There! As you can see we are busy again with events and we want to say thank you to all who support all our club events that make us so successful.....Thank You to all!

Anawan Oakton Grange News

Hi, from sunny Florida where this reporter is on vacation. Letting you know about our March meetings. On the 13th we will have a potluck supper at the hall by all members with a penny sale for the youth. The 27th there will be a program by a local 4-H club. Help support their good works and stop in at 7PM to see some of their accomplishments. On March 24 we host Bay State Pomona Grange with a luncheon at 12 noon followed by a meeting and an Irish step dancer performing for us. Going forward to April, it is National Grange month. We will celebrate it by entering some contests that are open to members and non members as well, at the Guiding Star Grange in Greenfield MA on April 8th at 2 PM. Some Categories are Baking--- 25th anniversary cake, frosted, and/or 7 cinnamon rolls; Talent show: Vocal, Instrumental, Vocal/ Instrumental combo, and Variety acts. For more information call 508 822-4946. If there are any applicants for the Anthony C. Thatcher scholarship reading this article please note that they need to send their college information in to 59 Padelford Street, Berkley, Ma 02779 by April 30, 2018. Members and non-members may apply.

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The Reporter March 2018

AAUW Scholarship for College Students

Taunton Massachusetts - The AAUW Taunton Area Branch is offering a $500.00 Mary Anderson Memorial Scholarship for college students. Applicants must be graduates of a high school in Southeastern Massachusetts who will be entering the junior or senior year of college in the fall of 2018 with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, and a commitment to improving the lives of women and girls. For an application, download at http://aauw-ma.aauw.net/ branches/Taunton/ or contact freemanlou@aol.com. The deadline to apply is March 31, 2018. The American Association of University Woman (AAUW) is the nation’s leading voice promoting equity and education for women and girls. Since our founding in 1881, AAUW members have examined and taken positions on the fundamental issues of the day – educational, social, economic, and political.

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Sixteenth Citizens’ Recognition Awards Night Nomination Form

The Rehoboth Lions Club will honor people whose service to the community has surpassed expectations at a “RECOGNITION NIGHT BANQUET” to be held on Wednesday, MAY 9, 2018 This form provides opportunity to nominate a person deserving in any of the following areas: ***(Please check the appropriate award and attach your one page nomination statement.) 1. JOSEPH DEROCHE OUTSTANDING SERVICE AWARD – Presented to a person whose service to the community has served a wide range of the population and has required effort above and beyond that expected of the general public. 2. OUTSTANDING YOUTH – A young person whose personal qualities and achievements serve as models for other young people in the community. 3. PUBLIC SERVANT – Presented to an elected or appointed town official or municipal employee whose actions have surpassed the expectations of their position. 4. THE RAYMOND G. DYER HUMANITARIAN AWARD – A person whose actions and deeds have fostered attitudes of good will and fairness to all people in the community. 5. EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR - Presented to the professional educator in Rehoboth or D-R H.S. whose dedication to the students and whose accomplishments in the field of education serve as models to both active professionals and those entering the profession. 6. HEROISM AWARD – Presented to a person who placed personal safety in jeopardy while aiding someone else in need. 7. SENIOR CITIZEN OF THE YEAR – Presented to the senior citizen whose life and accomplishments have served as an inspiration to others. 8. OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT – A local resident may be recognized for individual accomplishment. 9. THE RANDALL P. SILVEIRA PUBLIC SAFETY AWARD – A person of commitment, dedication and compassion while playing a key role in promoting public safety in the Town Of Rehoboth. 10. ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP AWARD – In recognition of your significant contribution to, and long-term stewardship and protection of Rehoboth’s landscape. 11. COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD – Presented to an individual who has consistently been a leader in community activities and service to others. 12. GOOD NEIGHBOR AWARD - Presented in recognition of the many selfless acts to assist neighbors as well as community groups. E-mail Nominee’s Name:

Home Phone:

Address: E-mail Nominator’s Signature

Home Phone:

Address: On an additional page, please explain your reasons for nominating this person and describe their achievements, supplying background information and the scope of their activities. These awards are open to those who live and/or work in Rehoboth, including all D-R Staff. Award recipients will be chosen by APRIL 17, 2018 and notified by APRIL 24, 2018. Please direct any questions to: Russell Latham, Chairman, 508-252-4272 PLEASE RETURN ALL NOMINATIONS TO THE ADDRESS BELOW ON OR BEFORE FRIDAY, APRIL13, 2018: P.O. Box 633, Rehoboth, Massachusetts 02769

March 2018

New England Amphibians and Eastern Spadefoot Toads Program

One of Rehoboth’s notable attractions is its plethora of wetland habitats ranging from open water reservoirs and rivers, to woodland brooks, wet meadows, dense swamps, and vernal pools. Various amphibians inhabit these places, but none are as unusual and fascinating as the scarce Eastern spadefoot. With only 7 inland populations known in Massachusetts, Rehoboth happens to host a small population of these toad-like creatures which have a unique lifestyle and appearance, and interesting behaviors. Learn how to find and identify spadefoots, and report any discoveries you make! Rehoboth resident Carol Entin, will give a photo presentation about New England amphibians in general and then discuss the monitoring and support of local populations of spadefoots. Carol, a retired Moses Brown science teacher, and former Caratunk Wildlife Refuge assistant director, is a passionate advocate for amphibians! Meet at 7 pm, on Monday, April 2, 2018 in the Tilton Room at the Carpenter Museum for this free program sponsored by the Rehoboth Land Trust.

Rehoboth Lions Club Dates of Meetings and Activities

3/7 Clam Boil at the Seekonk Gun Club 3/14 (Speaker Mike Delaney) Lions Reg. Meeting at the Anawan 3/21 Board Meeting at the Nokes’ home. 3/29 Mtg. at Legion - Easter Baskets to be filled. (This is a Thursday!) 4/4 Clam Boil at 7 PM at the Seekonk Gun Club– see a Lion for tickets. 4/11 Peace Poster – (Lions Election 18-19) at the Anawan Club on the Reservoir. 4/25 Regular Meeting at Reh. Cong. Church @ 7:00 PM 5/2 Clam Boil 5/9 Recognition Night Save these dates: August TBA, Cigar Night 8/13 – Rehoboth Lions Golf Tourney at Segregansett C.C. 9/15 – Harvest Block Party – Anawan and Rehoboth Lions Together 10/7 Sunday – 375 Anniversary of the Town of Rehoboth, Parade, this is Columbus Day Weekend. The Lions are planning to participate. See our web site - http://www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/rehoboth_ma OR – www.LionsOfRehoboth.org President’s Contact information: Ray Olivier, (508) 493-2796 E-mailollierun@hotmail.com The Rehoboth Lions Are always Happy To Have New Members To Help Us Serve Lions Charities, Eye Research And The Rehoboth Community! “Just ask” any member.

Kiwanis of Greater Seekonk

What is Kiwanis? An international organization of 600,000 members in 80 countries focusing on changing the world by serving children, one child and one community at a time. Kiwanis raised $100 million to complete its first world-wide service project teaming with Morton Salt and UNICEF to eliminate iodine deficiency disorder in more that 103 nations. The present world-wide goal is to join with UNICEF to raise $110 million to eliminate maternal and neonatal tetanus which kills early 60,000 babies every year, one baby every 9 minutes.

The Reporter

In New England we support the Pediatric Research Institute Program focusing on curing childhood diseases. We have supported training emergency personnel at Hasbro Children’s Hospital. In Seekonk, we have purchased automatic defibrillators and pediatric trauma equipment for Seekonk rescue vehicles as well as a water rescue sled and water protective gear for firemen. Does Kiwanis Make a Difference? • Provided bicycle helmets for safety day. Donated backpacks to Hurley Middle School. Provided grants for YMCA summer camp counselors. Refurbished the high school gazebo. Donated 3 new computers to the fire department for their emergency vehicles. • We offer scholarships to graduating seniors and we provide grants to parents who cannot afford childcare for pre-schoolers. Contribute to the high school summer work program for special education students. • We sponsor the annual Tree Lighting and Santa visit. • Kiwanis of Greater Seekonk teaches the value of community service and leadership to young people by sponsoring the Key Club at the Seekonk High School and the Builder’s Club at the Hurley Middle School. • These students help with tutoring, baby-sitting, PTA and library events, food drives, used jean collections, animal shelter supplies, Ronald McDonald House, Izzy Family Room at Hasbro, Trick or Treating with UNICEF and walks for health cures. Why Kiwanis? The Objects as adopted in 1924 are: to encourage concentrating on the value of human life, to build better communities by altruistic service and to increase righteousness, justice, patriotism and good will.

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The Reporter March 2018

scouting around American Heritage Girls Troop MA 3712 Thank You

Rear l to r: Ireland Larkin, Sara McMahon, Emily Day, Zoe Kuczewski, Mackenzie Gouin, Diane Fox. Middle l to r: Siera Larkin, Emily LaRochelle, Nicole Giannakas, Jayna Zimberlin, Lily McCormick, Madison Burbank. Front l to r: Kriszel Dabi, Ashlyn McCormick, Sarah Finn, Catherine Elsinger, Chloe Finkes. (Half the troop missing due to illness.) American Heritage Girls Troop MA 3712 would like to thank the residents of Rehoboth and Seekonk once again for donating to their annual Regifting Drive. The girls delivered the items to the Rehoboth Food Pantry and the Seekonk Doorways Food Pantry. The girls had a tour of Doorways and a question and answer session with Diane Fox, Head of Food Acquisition and Stocking. The pantries always welcome donations of food, gift cards or monetary donations. Volunteers are all so welcome! Rehoboth Food Pantry 508-493-1922. Doorways 508-761-6380.

Rehoboth Girl Scout Troop 628 Valentines Day

Rehoboth Girl Scout Brownie Troop 628 Made Heart Shaped Bookmarks Rehoboth Girl Scout Brownie Troop 628 is getting ready for Valentine’s Day by making heart shaped bookmarks for family and friends. If you have a girl in your life who would enjoy Girl Scouts you can learn about becoming a girl scout at www.gssne.org.

Seekonk Brownie Troop #975 Donates Blankets made Through the Pet Blanket Project at Seekonk Library

Girl Scouts of SNE Celebrates Cookie Season with 2nd Annual Cookies & Cocktails Event!

In 2017, Girl Scouts of Southeastern New England celebrated the 100th anniversary of the first known instance of Girl Scouts selling cookies with their debut event Cookies & Cocktails. On March 8th, the celebration returns! The festivities are shaping up to be an incredible evening celebrating 101 years of Girl Scouts selling cookies! Local chefs will be creating delicious desserts using everyone’s favorite treat—Girl Scout Cookies! We have partnered with some of your favorite groups: Knead Doughnuts, Ellie’s Bakery, Johnny Granata’s, Aquilante’s Bistro & Tavern and Newport Restaurant Group to showcase our cookies “out of the box”. Attendees will enjoy passed hors d’oeuvres, tasty Girl Scout Cookie creations, and the opportunity to bid on both live and silent auction items. The evening, once again, will be emceed by the one and only Mario Hilario. This is an event you won’t want to miss and proved to be a hit in 2017! (Please note this is a 21+ event.) The event is scheduled for Thursday, March 8th from 5:30pm to 8:30pm at the Crowne Plaza (The Atrium) located at 801 Greenwich Ave, Warwick, RI. Free ample parking is available for your convenience. Ticket sales are live on our website now at www.gssne.org!

Pictured with the Brownie Troop are (top row, L-R) Seekonk Animal Control Officer Sharonlynne Hall, Brownie Troop leaders Jodie Audet and Heather McTigue and Seekonk Library Children’s Librarian, Sharon Clarke. Seekonk Brownie Troop #975 donate blankets they made to Seekonk Animal Shelter. The blankets were made through the Pet Blanket Project at Seekonk Library with the blankets being given to pets who are adopted through the shelter. The troop also donated pet supplies for use at the shelter.

March 2018

The Reporter

Representative Steven S. Howitt Backs Consumer Credit Report Protections for Massachusetts Residents State Representative Steven S. Howitt, R-Seekonk, is supporting legislation that will enhance consumer protections for MasSteven S. Howitt sachusetts residents when dealing with credit reporting agencies and potential data breaches. Under current state law, consumers must pay a $5 fee to each of the three major credit reporting agencies – Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion – to freeze their credit reports and an additional $5 to lift the freeze. House Bill 4232, which was engrossed by the House of Representatives on February 14 by a vote of 152-0, will eliminate these fees and make it easier for consumers to protect their credit rating. In 2017, a data breach at Equifax resulted in hackers gaining access to personal information on 145 million Americans, including their Social Security numbers, birthdates, driver’s license numbers, and tax identification numbers. At least 3 million Massachusetts residents were affected by the data breach and may be vulnerable to identity theft because their personal information could be used to open lines of credit and to file fraudulent tax returns without their knowledge. This bills aims to protect consumers and their ability to safeguard their sensitive personal information while implementing reforms to the credit reporting industry. “I am pleased to not only have voted in favor of this legislation but to have worked closely with my colleagues, across the aisle, on the Joint Committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure to ensure a consumer-friendly bill was reported out of committee favorably,” said Representative Howitt. “This bills aims to protect consumers and their ability to safeguard their sensitive personal information while implementing reforms to the credit reporting industry. The safety and security of my constituents is of the utmost importance.” House Bill 4232 prohibits credit reporting agencies from accessing a consumer’s credit report in connection with an application for credit without their written, verbal or electronic consent. It also allows consumers to request a credit freeze by telephone or through a secure website. Credit reporting agencies would be required to implement the credit freeze within one business day, and to lift the freeze within 15 minutes of receiving electronic confirmation. House Bill 4232 also requires credit reporting agencies to provide consumers with immediate notice of a security breach and details on any mitigation services being offered to address the breach. Reporting

agencies would be required to provide the Attorney General and the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulations with a sample copy of the notification it intends to distribute to consumers so the notice can be posted on their websites. In the event of a credit breach at any business involving the release of consumers’ Social Security numbers, the company must offer free credit monitoring services to affected consumers for one year. The

bill also provides protections for residents under the age of 16 by allowing a parent or guardian to act on their behalf to place a freeze on their credit. The bill now moves to the Senate for further action. Representative Steven S. Howitt is a member of the Joint Committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure and has served on the committee since being elected to the legislature in 2011.

Dr. Lisa Daft and Dr. Jared Stubbs Dr. Lisa Daft Dr. Christina Piacquadio Are pleased to announce Dr. Chris Vanderpool has joined our family and cosmetic dental practice. Providing comprehensive Providing comprehensive dental care in dental care in more Seekonk, Seekonk, MA for than 35MA. years. WeWe welcome new patients! welcome new patients!

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The Reporter March 2018

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March 2018

The Reporter

KGM Seekonk High School BASEBALL Proudly Presents the Seekonk Warrior Baseball Clinic Pitching, Hitting, Fielding, Catching Age 8-16 March 12th – 16th 5:00PM – 6:30PM

$100.00 Enrollment Fee. Limited Enrollment The Seekonk High School Baseball Clinic focuses on the fundamentals of pitching hitting fielding and catching • Pitching mechanics; grips, selection, location, and holding runners on base. • Catching stance; receiving, framing, blocking, and throwing to bases • Hitting fundamentals; stance and swing fundamentals, plate discipline and approach Sponsored by Seekonk High Baseball Boys and Girls are Welcome. For More Information Please Contact: Joe Demelo; Phone: (401) 499 – 1044; E-mail Joedemelo40@gmail. com Coaching Staff: Joe Demelo, Seekonk High School Coach; Ryan Eaton, JV Coach; Paul Sabatini, Assistant JV Coach; John Burns, Assistant Coach Members of the Seekonk High School Varsity Baseball Team: All Funds Donated To Seekonk High Baseball Program Registration Form/Athlete Information Name: ________________________ Address: ________________________ _________________________________ Phone: ________________________ Cell: ________________________ Pitcher |Catcher | IF | OF (Circle One) Age: _____ Gender: _____ All checks are to be attached to Registration form and payable to: Town Of Seekonk $100.00 Mail to: Joe Demelo, 46 Ipswich St, Seekonk MA 02771 By signing this application, I, the parent or guardian of the above named applicant, hereby assume all risks in his or her participation. _____________________

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The Reporter March 2018

People In The News 90th Birthday Celebration

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Olive Soares, longtime resident of Rehoboth and school bus driver #1, turned 90 years old! We c e l e b r a t e d Olive’s birthday on Sunday, January 28th at her home at 147 Reservior Ave. All were invited. It was an open house of family and friends. Truly a joyous occasion! We had a cake wth 90 candles Olive Soares with her daughters and asked her to blow them out with the help of her grandchildren, nieces and nephews! She feels blessed with all the love from her family and friends. Her daughters and family wanted to say Thank You for making Mom’s day the best ever. Love and God Bless you all!

Emily Balasco named the ECAC Rookie of the Week

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Emily Balasco from Seekonk, a freshman on the Southern Connecticut State University gymnastics team was recently named the ECAC Rookie of the Week for her performance in the Owl’s win over Rhode Island College. Balasco tied for first place on the beam with a 9.65 to help the Owls win their dual meet against RIC. Emily is a 2017 graduate of Seekonk High School and a level 10 gymnast.

Megan Moran Named to Dean’s List at the College of the Holy Cross

Megan Moran, first year student at the College of the Holy Cross, has been named to the Dean’s List for the first semester of the 2017-2018 academic year. She is the daughter of Rick and Tracy Moran of Rehoboth, MA. She majors in Biology.

Morgan Tanner from Rehoboth Named to the Fall 2017 UMass Dartmouth Dean’s List

Morgan Tanner, 2015 Dighton Rehoboth High School Graduate, was named to the Fall 2017 UMass Dartmouth Dean’s List. Morgan is enrolled in the class of 2019 College of Nursing and is an active member in the National Student Nurses’ Association. Dean’s list in recognition of earning a semester grade point average of 3.2 or higher of a possible 4.0.

March 2018

Rehoboth Nurse Recognized at Women & Infants Hospital

Colleen Moitoso, RN, receives DAISY Award

Women & Infants Hospital recently presented Rehoboth resident Colleen Moitoso, RN, a nurse on the Labor and Delivery Unit, with the DAISY Award. The award is part of the DAISY Foundation’s program to recognize the above and beyond efforts performed by nurses every day. In nominating Colleen, the wife of a patient wrote, “Colleen’s support, Colleen Moitoso, RN wisdom and skill served to augment an galvanize my role – suddenly my wife had the support and gentle guidance of an expert (Colleen) along with the companionship and coaching of a loved (but amateur) family member … I had the opportunity to witness the breadth of her (Colleen’s) capabilities and talents. And I will always remember her ability to understand what was needed and match her skill and energy to meet that need.” Colleen has been a nurse with Women & Infants since 1992.

Worcester State University Dean’s List for Fall 2017

The following local students have been named to the Worcester State University Dean’s List for Fall 2017. Dean’s list honors are awarded to matriculated undergraduate students who have earned a 3.5 GPA or higher. Full-time students must have earned a minimum of 12 credits and part-time students must have earned a minimum of 6 credits. Rehoboth, MA: Jack H Carrera, Jonathan J Duncan, Raquel J Sousa Seekonk, MA: Emily R Belliveau

University of Maine Announces Fall 2017 Dean’s List

Orono, Maine — The University of Maine recognized 2,229 students for achieving Dean’s List honors in the fall 2017 semester. Of the students who made the Dean’s List, 1,609 are from Maine, 559 are from 32 other states and 61 are from 27 countries other than the U.S. Listed below are students from our area who received Dean’s List honors for fall 2017, completing 12 or more credit hours in the semester and earning a grade point average of 3.5 or higher. Please note that some students have requested that their information not be released; therefore, their names are not included. Rehoboth: Edward Medeiros Seekonk: Jamie Behan, Julia Vieira

Rehoboth Residents Named to Dean’s List at Boston University

Two Rehoboth residents have recently been named to the Dean’s List at Boston University for the Fall semester. Students recognized for this honor include: Sara J. Enos, Ethan S. Hobson of Rehoboth.

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The Reporter

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The Reporter March 2018

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

Stop by the Seekonk Public Library!

It sure feels like spring has sprung in Seekonk. And that means day trips abound! Stop by the Seekonk Public Library and get your museum passes! And don’t forget to grab an issue of “Book Page” to read up on the latest titles! Museum passes and complimentary copies of “Book Page” are courtesy of The Friends of Seekonk Public Library.

Guitarra Latina: Music from Argentina, Brazil, Puerto Rico, and Venezuela

Be whisked away to South America and beyond with the sounds of the Latin guitar. Join us at the Seekonk Library on March 13th at 6 PM for a classical guitar performance featuring the enchanting music of Latin America. This program is sponsored by The Friends of the Seekonk Public Library and is FREE and open to the public. No registration is required. Local Musician and Classical Guitarist, Mychal Gendron, joins us at the library with a performance entitled, Guitarra Latina: Music from Argentina, Brazil, Puerto Rico, and Venezuela. His performance will highlight notable classical guitar composers such as Luis Bonfa, Ernesto Cordero, Heitor Villa-Lobos, Astor Piazzolla and Antonio Lauro. Mychal has been active as a performer for over thirty years, appearing solo as well as in both small and large ensembles. He has toured Brazil as a soloist, participated in chamber music recitals at the Fete di Limans in France and has performed at Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico. Mychal has presented solo guitar recitals throughout the country, including all six New England States. As well as being an accomplished performer, Mychal is also an instructor at Brown University and a Suzuki Guitar Instructor, working with students of all ages.

Ted Reinstein, Reporter and Author

Seekonk Public Library is pleased to announce we will be hosting Chronicle reporter and author Ted Reinstein to share stories close to home from his book New England Notebook. This special will be held in the Large Meeting Room of Seekonk Public Library on Thursday, March 15 at 6:30 PM. Pre-registration is required and is open now to all. Register in the library’s Event Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org.

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About the title New England Notebook, Ted shares that after covering every corner of New England for 16 years, he got tired of saying, “I have enough stories to fill a book,” so he picked the best stories and wrote one. The result is an engaging almanac that offers plenty of intriguing tidbits and little-known facts, but goes beyond the merely curious to reveal the heart of what Reinstein calls, “this historic and quintessentially American place.” Looking to buy some medieval armor? In the mood for an orchestra of typewriters? Know where to find America’s oldest baseball diamond? They’re all in New England — and all in New England Notebook. In this book you’ll discover the essence of the region’s unique character, these are the stories not found in guidebooks: the diverse people, memorable places, fascinating history, odd pastimes and delicious foods, quirky collectors, skillful craftsmen, and one-of-a-kind entertainers that distinguish New England from every other place on earth. Ted Reinstein has been a reporter for “Chronicle,” WCVB-TV/ Boston’s award-winning—and America’s longest-running, locallyproduced—nightly news magazine since 1997. In addition, he is a regular contributor for the station’s political roundtable show and writes a weekly opinion column. A native of Winthrop, MA, Reinstein received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Brandeis University. He lives just west of Boston with his wife and two daughters.

Pioneering Sounds: Radiohead March 20th at 6 PM

If you’d like to check out the music of Radiohead the Seekonk Library can get a hold of any album you might be interested in. Locally we can borrow from over 70 libraries in the SAILS Network and if need be we can try other Networks in Massachusetts and beyond. You can even try out our digital music service: Freegal! Pioneering Sounds is also a discussion group at the Seekonk Library. Join us on March 20th at 6 PM for our discussion on Radiohead’s seminal album, Ok Computer. This program is offered FREE to the public, no registration required.

Walk 15® at Seekonk Library

Don’t let unpredictable spring weather keep you from getting your daily exercise! Join us for a session of Walk 15®, an indoor exercise program created by internationally recognized fitness expert Leslie Sansone. This session, led by certified Walk 15® Instructor and personal trainer Lorieann Lonardo, will show you how to have fun with an indoor walking routine to keep you on track! Come and see how these low-impact, “walking based” moves can result in big results! This program is appropriate for anyone, all fitness levels, all “walks of life.” Join us for Walk 15® at Seekonk Library, on Wednesday, March 21 at 6 PM. This program is sponsored by The Friends of the Seekonk Public Library and is offered free. Space is limited; registration is required. Please register in the library’s Events Calendar online at www.seekonkpl.org or call the library to reserve your space.

Seekonk Library to Host Meet the Candidates Event

Seekonk Public Library will give voters an opportunity to meet the people running for offices in Seekonk town government at a Meet the Candidates event on Saturday, March 24 from 9:00 to 11:00 AM. The library emailed invitations to all candidates for local office, and has received positive responses from many, including two candidates for the Board of Selectmen and three candidates

The Reporter

March 2018 for the School Committee. Several candidates for other elected boards will also be attending. The invitation describes the event as a two-hour gathering for political conversation along with coffee and pastry. Each candidate who has signed-up to attend will have the opportunity to make brief remarks to the voters from the podium. Candidates will not be taking questions at the podium nor be debating other candidates. Participants are instead being encouraged to talk with voters during the time allotted for socializing. The library has also asked candidates to provide contact information so that voters may send questions and comments to them after the event. In making this announcement, Mr. Fuller noted that supporting informed political discussion and encouraging civic engagement is part of the core mission of the public library. He sees the Meet the Candidates event on March 24 as one way of filling that important role. Mr. Fuller, noted that residents have expanded their expectations of the library to include its serving as its civic and cultural center. The library is a politically neutral, public space that is open and available to everyone. I can think of no better site to hold such an event, he said.

Movie Night @ Seekonk Library Monday, March 26, 6:00 PM

Skip the wait in movie theater lines and the expensive concession stand! Take some time for yourself and enjoy this select DVD release for FREE at Seekonk Public Library. This program is free and open to the public. This film, nominated for four Oscars this year including Picture of the Year, was a surprise success from Jordan Peele of the comedy duo Key and Peele. In the film, a young man travels to his girlfriend’s family estate in the woods. There he becomes ensnared in a sinister plot. Which was the real reason for the invitation. Rated R; 1 hour 44 minutes. Licensing prevents us from printing titles; call the library for the title and other details at 508-336-8230 ext. 56130.

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Can’t Make This Stuff Up… A Non-Fiction Book Group

Join us for a lively discussion of A Street Cat Named Bob by James Bowen at the Seekonk Library on Tuesday, March 27 at 6:00 pm. In this month’s selection, Bowen tells us how an unlikely friendship saved his life. Before meeting Bob, Bowen was a homeless musician. This is the story of how one cat changed all that. This book, as well as each following months’, will leave you wondering how this story could possibly be true. As it turns out, you can’t make this stuff up… Our book group meets on the last Tuesday of every month at 6 PM and tackles a variety of nonfiction topics from gambling to birding and even mortality itself; it’s nonfiction that fiction readers can enjoy. New members are most welcome. Even if you only read a small portion of the book we’d love to hear what you’d have to say! This program is free and open to all.

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When is a book not a book? When you hack it to make something else! Join us for the last session in the Book Hacks series where we take books that have outlived reading and make them into something useful. Make your beloved book into a brand new work of art by transforming it into a journal. We will explore multiple ways to mine new creative uses from our well-used titles while rescuing them from recycling. No previous experience is necessary. A limited number of books will be provided; registration is required. Please register on the library’s Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org or call Adult Services at 508-336-8230.

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The Reporter March 2018

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Storytimes

Seekonk Library storytimes focus on the five principles of reading readiness from the Every Child Ready to Read program. These principles are talking, singing, reading, writing and playing. No registration for our storytimes but a SAILS Library Card is required. • Lapsit (0-2 Years)-Mondays at 10 am, March 19, 26, April 2, 9. Includes a story, fingerplays, music, a musical instrument experience and yes, BUBBLES! • Toddler (2 and 3 year olds)-Tuesdays at 10 am, March 20, 27, April 3, 10. Includes stories, music, a musical instrument experience, an early learning take-home activity and bubbles. • Preschool (3, 4 and 5 year olds)-Wednesdays at 1:30 pm, March 21, 28, April 4, 11. Includes stories, music and a craft. • Family Storytime and Playgroup (0-5 year olds)-Thursdays at 10 am, March 22, 29, April 5, 12. Stories and music followed by learning in a playgroup setting. • Reading to Oliver-Tuesdays, March 13, 27. Build reading skills and gain confidence in reading aloud by reading to Oliver, “our” reading therapy dog. Join Oliver and his owner, Judy Carlson, for a 20 minutes session between 3:30 and 5:15. Call to reserve your time slot.

Chapter Chat

Friday, March 16 at 3:45 pm - 4:45 pm

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Are you listening to or starting to read chapter books? Then you should join this new club! Each meeting we will listen to some chapters of a new book and then do a craft or project together. You’ll gets lots of ideas of new books to try! Grades K-3

St. Patrick’s Day Craft

Saturday, March 17 from 10 am - 1 pm

Celebrate the “all things green” with a special St. Patrick’s Day, drop-in craft.

Sharpie Art Workshop for Kids

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Children in grades 3 - 5 are invited to explore art with the sleek feel of Sharpie markers. We’ll have the markers and other supplieslet’s get creative! No art ‘experience’ necessary. Please register at Seekonk Library’s Calendar of Events. All details at seekonkpl.org

No-Sew Pet Blankets

Together we’ll make no-sew pet blankets for cats and dogs who are adopted out through the Seekonk Animal Shelter. Everyone will make one complete blanket to donate and perhaps a second one if we have time. The Library will provide the fleece but please bring fabric scissors if you have them. Join us for this great community project. Children ages 8+ with an adult.

Teen Events

Teen Tech Day,

Thursday, March 8 at 3:30 pm

It’s Teen Tech Week! Celebrate with by making a cool techy project you can take home.

Quiz Time Thursday, March 15 at 3 pm

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Thursday, March 22 at 3 pm

Make a delicious chocolatey cake in a mug using the microwave. A perfect afternoon snack.

Seekonk Meadows

Remember, if there’s snow on the ground, come into the Children’s Room and borrow our snow toys to play with in Seekonk Meadows. Build snow bricks or snow balls, shovel a path or create snow paintings with colored water. Winter family fun!

March 2018

News And Notes From Blanding Library

The Reporter

Lic# 11348B

By Leslie Patterson

Children’s Book Sale March 13-15

It’s time for March Madness again at the Blanding – we’re talking about the annual used book sale of children’s books, which will be held during library hours (10 a.m. to 8 p.m.) on Tues., Wed. and Thurs. March 13-15. Gently used books will be sold for $3 a bag (you can bring your own bags or pick up one at the library.) Since this is a book sale for children, we ask that adults be accompanied by a child when coming to the book sale.

Yoga for Families March 9

The next session of Yoga for Families will be held Friday March 9 at 10 a.m. This is a free parent-child wellness event for children up through age 8. It is sponsored by the PACE CCW CFCE Program with funding from the Mass. Dept. of Early Education and Care. For more information contact Jocelyn at 508-984-3559 or jcarvalho@paceccw.org

The next Legos at the Library will be on Sat. March 10 at 10:30 a.m. This fun and creative program is open to all. The next knitting group meetings (open to all levels of knitters) will be on Thursdays March 8 and 22 at 6:30 p.m. The Blanding Book Club will next discuss Margaret Atwood’s “The Handmaid’s Tale”. If you’ve watched the recent dramatization on TV, you might want to talk about the original novel on Wed. April 4 at 7 p.m. Copies of the book will be available in advance at the library. Check the Blanding’s calendar at blandinglibrary.net for announcements of programs coming up, including other events held at Goff Hall in addition to those sponsored by the library.

Story Hours

Story and craft hours for children ages 3-K are held from 10 to 11 a.m. on Wed. and Thurs. The library is no longer requiring registration for these programs; feel free to drop in. Tot Time is a short session of books, music and movement for little ones under age 3, held at 10 a.m. on Tuesdays. We ask that you continue to register for this program. The Blanding Public Library is located in historic Goff Hall, 124 Bay State Rd., Rehoboth. Hours are: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday through Thursday and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Closed on Sundays and holidays. Phone: 508-252-4236.

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The Reporter March 2018

CHURCH NEWS & Events Corned Beef & Cabbage Dinner

Saturday, March 10th 4:00pm – 8:00pm

First Christian Congregational Church, “The Olde White Church”, invites everyone to be Irish for a day on Saturday, March 10 from 4:00 pm – 8:00 –pm and join us for a Corned Beef & Cabbage Dinner with carrots, potatoes, desserts & beverages. Adults are $12, Children (5-10) are $6, and Children 4 and under eat free. Contact Karen Rebello at 774-644-4178 or the church office at 508-673-7179 if you would like tickets or reservations. All are welcome!

The 8th Annual O’Congregational Corned Beef Dinner Saturday, March 10, 2018 Doors open at 4:30pm - Dinner at 5:00pm

Central Congregational Church, 115 Commonwealth Avenue, Attleboro Falls, MA 02763 Entertainment features: Three Irish Step Dancers, A traditional Irish sing-along, Live Irish Music performed by local musicians-Dave Valerio, John Pelzman and Matthew Trowbridge (more being added!) On the Menu: Traditional Corned Beef with Kelly Family Mustard Sauce, Potatoes, Cabbage, Carrots and Onions, Mary’s Famous Bannock - (Irish Soda Bread from the Chieftan Pub in Plainville, MA), Chocolate and Yellow Sheet Cake with Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream, Punch, Coffee, Tea, and Water Cost: Adults $12.00 Children 5-10yrs $6.00 Under 5yrs – FREE! Tickets must be purchased on or before Thursday, March 8th by 12noon from the Church Office during office hours—T & TH 8:30am—4pm. Call 508699-7700 for more information.

Spaghetti Supper

Sunday, March 11 at 5:30 pm

The community is invited to a spaghetti supper Sunday, March 11 at 5:30 pm at Newman Congregational Church, United Church of Christ - 100 Newman Avenue, Rumford RI. The cost of the dinner is $8 per person, with a family maximum of $25. All proceeds will benefit the programs supported by Newman’s Board of Missions, including the Bread of Life Food Pantry, which serves many East Providence residents. Tickets can be purchased at the door. The menu for the evening is spaghetti (regular and gluten free), meatballs, salad, bread and butter, dessert and beverages. Join us for a fun evening of food and fellowship. For more information, contact Newman Congregational Church, United Church of Christ at 401-434-4742.

Traditional Irish Dinner Sat March 17th 5-7 PM

Please join us for our Nineteenth Annual Corned Beef & Cabbage Dinner on Sat March 17th between 5 and 7 PM in Woodworth Hall at the Seekonk Congregational Church, 600 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk, MA. The public is invited and reservations are suggested, for tickets you may call the church office at 508-336-9355 or Donna Euell at 401-523-5283. Walk-ins are welcome and take out is available. The Irish atmosphere will enhance the flavor of Corned beef, cabbage, onions, potatoes, carrots, rolls & butter and beverages. Dessert will be ice cream and homemade cookies. Tickets are $12.00 for adults, $4 for children 5-12 and Free for children under 4.

Blood Drive

Sunday March 18th

Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, Taunton Ave. (Rt. 44) Seekonk, Ma. Hours 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM. Appointments available @ www. ribc.org Sponsor code 1375 Give Life, Give Blood!

March 2018

The Reporter

Rehoboth Congregational Church Spaghetti Supper Saturday, March 24, 2018 at 6 PM

Rehoboth Congregational Church Spaghetti Supper and Desert Auction will be held Saturday, March 24, 2018 at 6 PM in Fellowship Hall at the Rehoboth Congregational Church, 139 Bay State Road, Rehoboth MA. Ticket prices for the All You Can Eat supper are $8 for adults and $5 for 12 & under. All proceeds to go to the RCC Missions Committee. Reservations are required. Please call 508-252-4545 and leave your name and number of reservations.

Local History Slide Talk at Newman Congregational Church, UCC Sun, March 18th 3:00-4:00 PM

Celebrating 375 years as a congregation, Newman Congregational Church, UCC will host a talk on local history including the ‘Ring of the Green’ settlement in Rumford and the King Phillip’s War. Local historian David Norton, a direct descendant of soldiers who fought in the King Philip’s War, will show slides from King Philip War sites, discussing each site’s significance in a talk that will appeal to young and old history lovers. Also covered will be the Civil War story of Peter Hunt, who is buried in the cemetery across from the church. A small exhibit of Peter’s Civil War belongings will be displayed and copies of the book “All Quiet on the Rappahannock Tonight: the Civil War letters of Lt. Peter Hunt” will be for sale by the East Providence Historical Society. There will be an opportunity for questions from the audience. Refreshments will be provided. This program is free, open to all, and handicapped accessible.

Newman Congregational Church, UCC Continues to Collect Donations!

Newman Congregational Church, UCC is seeking clothing donations from community members. Newman UCC has been partnering with St. Pauly Textile Inc. to collect used clothing for over the past year. St. Pauly Textile Inc. works with non-profit organizations , like Newman UCC , to set up used clothing drop off sheds designed to give community members a clean, attractive, and well-monitored place to donate gently used textile items, which are then distributed both here in the U.S. and worldwide to people who need them. With a strong call to mission and care for all of Creation, Newman UCC, an Open and Affirming congregation of the United Church of Christ, is excited to continue to host a St. Pauly’s Clothing Donation Shed and extends an invitation to one and all to join in our shared mission by recycling old clothing in this way. St. Pauly Textile, Inc. collects over 120,000 pounds of clothing every day and estimates that this clothing ends up in 44 different countries (including the United States) yearly. In 2017, the company was able to help keep over 20 million articles of clothing out of landfills. The company was founded 22 years ago in Rochester, NY and is an A+ rated member of the Better Business Bureau. Accepted items include clothing, shoes, sneakers, belts, purses, blankets, sheets, drapes, linens, pillowcases and stuffed animals. Donors are asked to donate items in a plastic bag to protect against dirt and the elements. There is a small box on the shed that contains receipts to help donors take a tax deduction. Consider donating your used clothing items today. Newman Congregational Church, United Church of Christ is located at 100 Newman Avenue, Rumford, RI 02916 For more information, call 401-434-4742.

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The Reporter March 2018

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Seekonk Congregational Church Spiritual Journey In Song Friday, March 23rd @ 7:30PM

Seekonk Congregational Church, UCC, 600 Fall River Ave., Seekonk, MA. Tickets: $8 Adults/$5 Seniors & Kids... All Proceeds benefit SCC. Sponsored by the Music & Fine Arts Committee. For more information contact the church office @ 508-336-9355. This will be an entertaining, emotional and thought provoking experience that projects the message of Jesus’ life as it continues to be told in current music. The story of Jesus told through popular music and choreography including songs such as ‘I heard it through the grapevine’, ‘Too late to apologize’, ‘We are the World’ and ‘Walk around Jesus’ just to name a few. A show for all ages.

Seekonk Congregational Church Craft & Vendor Fair

Call Patricia Blasi Cell 401-413-4949

April 14th, Saturday, 8:30am-2pm

Craft & Vendor Fair, Seekonk Congregational Church, UCC, 600 Fall River Ave, Seekonk. Many local area crafters and vendors will showcase their magnificent products… jewelry, gifts, knits, handcrafted items, gift baskets, photography and more. This Event is Open to the Public. Lunch and Baked Goods will be offered. Spaces for Crafters and Vendors are available on a first- come, first-serve basis. Contact the church office 508-336-9355, Email: seekonkucc@gmail.com to fill out the necessary form. Tell your Friends & Neighbors.

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Please join us for our Thursday Lenten Seminars at Seekonk Congregational Church, 600 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk, MA in Woodworth Hall. We start at 6 PM with a communal meal for all ages - $1 per person. Come eat a meal in community together sponsored and prepared by various Boards in the church to bring us together. Open to the public, all are welcome and invited to attend. For additional information please call the church office at 508-336-9355. At 6:45 – 8 PM, choose from up to 3 different lecture series.

Week 1 – March 1st

1. Ethics – Leader: Rev Dr. Daehler Hayes Case studies relating to Ethical Decision making, What’s the Right Thing to Do??; a brief journey in ethical decision making in an age of moral dilemmas. Dr Hayes is an adjunct professor at URI who teaches Ethics. 2. Spiritual Fitness: Leaders are Chontell Washington and Venson Jordan. Chontell is a Sabbatical Pastor at Slatersville UCC. Come try new ways to experience a greater sense of focus, healing, balance, mobility, flexibility and stress relief. 3. How would you like to be remembered: Leaders are Ellen and Larry Hindle. Spend an hour with two engaging people who will help you explore ways to reflect and write your obituary. Meaningful and fun with some humor included.

Week 2 – March 8th

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1. Our Mission in Haiti guided by Linda Sable, Rev Daehler Hayes and Suzanne Swanson. It’s all about relationships: Past/ Present/Future. Call all who have made the journey over the past 28 years and those who have yet to go! Let’s envision together! Conversations and Questions, sharing and updates on people, places and programs. 2. Taking Charge of Stress Leaders are Dr Jessica Stewart Bien and Kristin Putney Come to ease the stressed-out, worried places of our lives that cause stress in our bodies and relationships, and most importantly experience and discover what we can do about this. 3. Legacy Planning – It’s not just for the wealthy!! Leader Alice Gregory Supinski This should be an important topic for anyone

March 2018 who owns property and has preferences as to whom, how and when that property is transferred at his or her death. It encompasses the accumulation, conservation and distribution of an estate. You may have heard the expression, “We don’t plan to fail; but we fail to plan.” That is nowhere more true than in the accumulation, protection, and distribution of our estate. Only 44% of adult Americans have a will, but only about 28% of those wills are up to date. What would happen to your legacy if you ever needed care, at home or in a facility? Who would care for you? And how would you pay for that care? How can I plan to pass along a legacy to a favorite charitable institution and get tax benefits today? These are some of the challenges (and their solutions) that will be discussed.

Palm Sunday, March 25th at 9:00AM & 10:30AM will include special music and palms. Cherub Choir sings at beginning. Children enter toward the end of the Service to lead the procession to the Hall where Holy Week Marketplace follows each service. Maundy Thursday, March 29th at 7:00PM will begin with a light meal around the tables in candlelit Woodworth Hall...followed by the events of the Last Supper and the Garden of Gethsemane re-enacted by the disciples and Jesus. It is a very moving, memorable evening! (Required attendance for 2nd graders & families) (Child Care for young children…let us know if you need it ahead of time, please!)

The Reporter

Good Friday, March 30th at 7:30PM (please note time difference between Thursday and Friday) service will be held in the Church Sanctuary with the procession of the Cross and the crucified Christ followed by the Tenebrae Service of Darkness. Easter Sunrise Service will be at 6 AM at the Grist Mill Pond. Easter Celebration Services: April 1st at 9:00AM and 10:30AM Trumpet, Organ and Timpani play ten minutes before the services begin. Sacred Dance processional and Children’s Choir sings. All children begin in church and pre-school through 5th graders are invited (unless parents want them to remain in worship) to move to the Hall for special event.

Week 3 – March 15th

1. Mindful Parenting Leaders will be Mary Catherine, Gherardini, Sarah Stevenson, Kristin Putney and members of the Christian Education Committee Parenthood is not for the faint of heart! It can seem close to impossible to balance you and your child’s needs. School, jobs, extracurricular activities, social media concerns, physical and mental well being. The list goes on and on. This aids to help parents and caregivers learn simple, quick everyday ways to cope with the stress of parenthood while connecting more deeply with your child and with your faith. 2. Thinking about Writing Your Faith Story? Lead by Rev. Marilyn Ricci This Seminar is for all MENTORS of the Confirmands and for all who would like to articulate faith in light of their life journey... Come discover more about God, Jesus Holy Spirit baptism, communion and the basics of our faith... and how you might put your understandings on paper.

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Week 4 – March 22nd 6:30 PM

Please note the time change and this does not include supper 1. Walk the Labyrinth – Starts with a brief candlelight, healing & meditation service followed by walking the Labyrinth. Come and share in these moments of reflection and find peace in the walk.

Seekonk Congregational Church Holy Week Services

All Are Welcome, for additional information please call 508-336-9355. Holy Week in our faith community is a time of spiritual growth and renewal like no other time of the year! So often the comments come back to us that those who participate in the fullness of the services planned gain a new understanding of who Jesus was and how faith connects with “real life”. When we worship, we are in the presence of the Eternal and this Holy Week promises to be such a time once again.

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The Reporter March 2018

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Dates to Remember

Spring Picture Day School Committee Budget Presentation Dodge Ball 2:30-4 p.m. Dodge Ball 2:30-4 p.m. Aladdin, Jr. - 7 p.m. cafe Aladdin, Jr. – 7 p.m. cafe Aladdin, Jr. – 7 p.m. cafe School Committee Public Budget Hearing

Students of the Month

The following students were presented with Student of the Month Certificates for the month of January: Gr. 8 – Ella Gesner/Nicholas Antonio Gr. 7 –Anastasia Bettencourt/Aydan Comey Gr. 6 – Kelsey Bain/Justin Chmielewski Gr. 5 – Olivia Visinho/Aidan Melo Related Arts – Keira Brown/Ethan Cutler

Winter Math Team

On January 26 the Beckwith Math Team competed in the Winter Massasoit League Math Meet which was held at Beckwith Middle School. The following math team members participated that day: Ashley Anderson, Devin Andrade, Ryan Callaghan, Grace Campos, Alex Cote, Lauren DeCoste, Bryce Downs, Jacob Greenberg, Samantha Paulino, Jill Pestana, Jillian Ross, Alex Tomellini, Ben Wheeler, and Tom Zibrida. Ben Wheeler placed third individually. The team placed fifth overall. Our Math Team advisor is Ms. Tina Freeman.

The Tale of Two Teams: Beckwith Robotics

As summer was winding down and the cooler winds of autumn were starting to blow, students at Beckwith Middle School formed two competitive robotics teams, the Poncho Squad and the Savage Dabs. They started the journey, along with 78 other teams, towards the FIRST LEGO League (FLL) Rhode Island Championship. Hoping for a repeat of last year’s success, both teams started researching hydro-dynamics to try and solve a problem dealing with the collection, transportation, and/or disposal of water. In 1989 Dean Kamen started FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) with the goal that students should be recognized for exploring science and technology with excitement and passion similar to athletics. Today there are over 515,000 kids on 59,000 teams worldwide competing in 2,900 events. FLL, which is for students between the ages of 9 - 14, is now in more than 90 countries. The term “robotics team” is something of a misnomer as it is truly so much more than robots. Students must research an issue, design a unique solution to the problem, share their research with others in the community, and then with the tournament judges. Students are also judged on their core values which include teamwork, Gracious Professionalism and Coopertition. They also have to design, build, and program a robot that can perform various missions on the game board. “FIRST” is more than robots. The robots are a vehicle for students to learn important life skills. “We don’t use kids to build robots; we use robots to build kids” Dean Kamen Our Beckwith teams visited a water treatment plant and a fire station to learn about various issues with water. The Poncho Squad took this knowledge and developed a Portable Water Distillation System (PWDS) to clean water for personal use, while the Savage Dabs created the Hydrant Hemisphere Helper to keep snow off fire hydrants. In December they traveled to a qualifying tournament in North Providence, RI with their project, their core values

March 2018

The Reporter

presentation, their robot, and their hopes of making it to the Championship Tournament. Not only did they qualify, the Savage Dabs won 1st place champion and 1st place in the robot game while the Poncho Squad brought home the trophy for 2nd place champion. With both teams moving on, it was time to review the judges’ comments and try to improve in all areas: Project, Core Values, and Robot Design as well as try to complete more missions on the game board. The RI Championships are held in January at Roger Williams University and the top forty teams from Rhode Island and from neighboring towns in Southeastern Massachusetts converge for a full day of competition and judging. As the day wore on, one of the motors on the Poncho Squad’s robot stopped working properly and the spare was left back at school; they were looking at certain doom. Luckily another team had a spare motor that they let us use; this is what the term Coopertition means... you are in a competition but you cooperate with other teams. Later we were able to help another team that could not find their downloading cord. The Savage Dabs, coached by Mrs. Tomellini, were Alex Tomellini, Josh Guarino, Noah Ferreira, and Ethan Cutler, Angelina Araujo, and Katie Vitale, and Evan Watts. Mr. Greenberg Residential & Commercial coached the Poncho Squad comprised of: Jacob Greenberg, Devin Andrade, Sebastian Complete Services Pickford, and Alex Cote, Destin Michener and Jonah Hebda. Mr. Kenny runs the robotics program at Beckwith and was an assistant coach for both teams this year. After the first of the three rounds on the game board the Savage Dabs were in 2nd place with 210 points; on rounds 2 and 3 they were not able to increase that score but Fully Insured • Free Estimates they held on to bring home the 2nd place robot game trophy. They also brought home a trophy for winning the Inspiration Award for Core Values. Both teams did an awesome Serving RI & MA job as the Savage Dabs scored 101 out of 108 possible points in judging and the Poncho Squad was right there with them scoring 97. While we are proud of the awards won by these teams, one of the FIRST Core Values Quality Work At Reasonable Prices states, “It is not about what we win but what we learn” and these kids learned and honed skills such as problem solving, public speaking, conflict resolution, mentoring. FIRST participation is proven to encourage students to pursue education and careers in STEMrelated fields, inspire them to become leaders and innovators, and enhance their 21st century work-life skills. The team members would like to thank everyone who has supported them this past year and all of the volunteers at FIRST, FLL and RISF (Rhode Island Students of the Future). Also congratulations to the top two teams from this year’s Championship: 1st Place Champions Award and 1st Place Robot Performance (255): 3952 Jamestown Robowolves, Neighborhood Team 2nd Place Champion’s Award: 26149, The Savage Snowflakes, AIR From roofs to windows 4H Robotics, Newport

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Beckwith Library News

The Beckwith Library Makerspace is up and running, but we are far from the finish line. Our Lego plates have arrived and soon will be attached to the wall. Although we have some Legos, we are looking for more. We would love to have any and all gently used Legos that you are ready to pass along. We will have challenges and contests connected to the wall and we will post photos of them on our D.L. Beckwith Middle School Library Facebook site. Yes, that’s right we have our very own site and we invite you to visit us! Our new video equipment should be arriving soon. We have lots of plans to use this in conjunction with a green screen that will be painted on a library wall where everyone will have access to this technology. For more information, email jmcquilkin@drregional.org. Visit us on Facebook at D.L. Beckwith Middle School Library

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App Update: What Parents Need to Know

AntiChat (from smartsocial.com) AntiChat offers users the ability to anonymously chat with other users around the world. Anonymous apps like the AntiChat app can be very dangerous for students to use because they encourage users to chat with strangers. What is the AntiChat App? • The Anonymous Chat Rooms app from AntiChat offers users the ability to anonymously chat with other users around the world • Similar to Snapchat and Instagram Stories, messages self destruct on the app • Users earn Karma for texting different users, sending pictures, buying artifacts in their profile, and receiving gifts from other users

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The Reporter March 2018

• Karma is considered the user’s “social status” on the app • Users have 4 chat room options: Oneon-one random chats, Join public group chats, Start a group chat, One-on-one chats with someone specific AntiChat Marketing Says: Cool chat rooms. Self-destructing messages. Talk about anything with strangers. Meet new people, ask questions. Share secrets or just kill time. Nobody will judge you, as nobody can find out your real name. App’s Anti features: No Names, No History, No Ads, No Spam, No Bots, No Violence The best anonymous chat game app with 1,600,000+ people online meeting new friends, confessing or searching for partners to date online. The app is free to join and free to play. The Anti Chat app helps you when you are feeling alone or bored in following ways:

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• Express your secret identity in anonymous chat rooms with no registration • Not being afraid of any judgment because of self-destructing messages • Meet up and hook up with grown-up teenagers in dorm chat rooms for 18+ teens • Come up in lesbian chats, gay dating rooms if you like to flirt with same-sex personalities • Find singles over 30+ for serious relationships and discreet adult dating online • Join text role play games with singles, if you feel bored • Open popular chats section, and join hundreds of rooms for meeting new people and flirting • Read public secrets posted by thousands of anonymous users • Share your sex experience in sex confessions Why should parents care? • Anonymous apps like the AntiChat app can be very dangerous for students to use because they encourage users to chat with strangers • Every chat our team participated in became explicit within the first few messages • Teens as young as 17 can join the app • The app is marketed by some as a hookup app • Content in chat rooms can be very mature and many users ask for pictures or to send pictures • The majority of the public chats our team participated in resulted in another user asking to chat privately so they could send explicit pictures • There is no verification process when signing up so it is very easy for students to lie about their age • It can be difficult for parents to get involved when their teen is using an anonymous app; when parents aren’t involved it can discourage teens from making wise decisions AntiChat App in the News: Parents should know that AntiChat’s anonymity encourages risk taking and ac-

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countability-free behavior that often brings out the worst in people. A brief search of the public chat rooms finds very adult-themed discussions and sexual predatory behavior. Online sexual predators thrive in chat rooms that are anonymous. –Cyber Safety Cop What can parents do? If your teen has the AntiChat app, have them delete it immediately and discuss the dangers of the app When you’re ready for your student to be online, encourage them to use apps that you can monitor or of which you have prior knowledge Before giving your student access to a device, teach your child to ask permission before downloading any app Teach your children to never chat with strangers online, share their personal information on social media, or send pictures anonymously Contact your service provider for more information on parental controls

Principal’s Message

At Beckwith we are celebrating Black History Month this February by reading quotes during morning announcements from influential Americans of color who overcame adversity to greatly impact the lives of others and our nation. We are also celebrating this year’s theme for 2018, celebrating the courage of African Americans in times of war, with a display in the cafeteria honoring those who served and also broke barriers to serve in the United States military. Finally, we are offering another Beckwith Movie Matinee on February 28th with selections that honor the accomplishments of men and women who succeeded in bettering our nation despite the racism they faced. Movie selections will include Hidden Figures, Selma, and Tuskegee Airmen. Black History Month celebrates the human spirit’s drive to succeed despite injustice and hardship. But more importantly, it drives us as a nation to reflect on mistakes made in the past and the causes of prejudice and bigotry that existed then and that still exists today. How can we as a nation come together to eliminate hate and bring people together? It takes the courage demonstrated by the heroes we honor. That is what we need to teach our students to continue to make our great country even better.

March 2018

The Reporter

Palmer River Elementary School 100 Reasons Room 35 LOVES Palmer River Elementary School & Rehoboth, MA! In honor of the 375th Anniversary of the town of Rehoboth, Room 35’s annual list of 100 Reasons we LOVE Palmer River Elementary School also includes reasons we love our town! 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

Palmer River is a great school This is a safe town Having fun at school Ms. Ormerod and Ms. Larrivee Playing with friends Nice and funny teachers Reading groups Great neighborhoods to live in Sledding down hills in your neighborhood 10. Designing crafts in art with Mrs. Beaulieu 11. Reading books in library with Ms. Cohen 12. Making music with Mrs. Grant 13. Exercising in the gym with Mr. Kepnes 14. Experimenting in STEAM with Ms. Lyczynski 15. Exploring technology with Mr. Pearse 16. Playing soccer at the fields in town 17. The Palmer River 18. Girls Scouts & Boys Scouts 19. The recess cart 20. 4-square on the blacktop 21. Healthy food in the cafeteria 22. Mrs. Miguel and Mrs. DuBois 23. Police officers to keep us safe 24. Firefighters who help us 25. Sitting in teams in our classroom 26. Mrs. Hutson keeping us healthy 27. Playing at recess 28. Blanding library 29. Custodians that keep our school clean 30. Playing football in town 31. Homeworkopoly 32. Morning meeting 33. Putting our work on the Wall of Fame

34. Star of the Week 35. Paramedics who can help you 36. Plaza Pizza 37. The post office 38. Having classroom jobs 39. Earning Bee Bucks 40. The holiday sing-a-long 41. Playing Mystery Name 42. Mural art by Bren Bataclan 43. Rehoboth block party 44. Square 1 Art 45. Ms. Maria 46. The Fun Run 47. Field Day 48. Picking from the treasure box 49. Rehoboth House of Pizza 50. Earning bees in our class beehive 51. Wii dance parties in the gym 52. DEAR time 53. Xtra Math 54. Raz-Kids 55. Going to Cumberland Farms 56. The transfer station in town 57. Getting ice cream from Uncle Ed’s 58. Classroom celebrations 59. Practicing calendar skills 60. Our school bus drivers 61. The parks and playgrounds 62. Going to the book fair 63. Having field trips 64. Learning sight words 65. Vocabulary Bingo 66. Math Choice Boards 67. People who plow our streets 68. Poetry

69. Ms. Kramer 70. The office bee buck raffle 71. Solving word problems 72. Having our own classroom mailboxes 73. Playing math games 74. Guest readers 75. KP Grill 76. Champions program 77. Dunkin Donuts 78. Choosing books at Book Look 79. Book Buddies with Room 14 80. Learning about even and odd numbers 81. Carpenter Museum 82. Reading different genres 83. Friendly neighbors 84. Lots of grass and open space 85. Playing basketball at the school 86. STAR Math 87. STAR Reading 88. Practicing handwriting 89. Helpers at recess and in the cafeteria 90. People who help keep our town clean 91. Harvest Market 92. M & D’s Country Kitchen 93. Having book bags in our seat sacks 94. Learning addition and subtraction 95. Earning party days 96. Making new friends 97. Playing games at recess 98. Adding words to the Word Wall 99. Celebrating the 375th anniversary of Rehoboth, MA! 100. Celebrating 100 days of school at Palmer River!

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Elementary students worked with Mrs. Jackson to decorate their room in honor of the Rehoboth’s 375th “Put a Heart on It” theme.

Mrs. Wright’s kindergarten students celebrate being “100 Days Smarter!”

The Reporter March 2018

HMS Stars of the Month for January

Builders Club Students Collected Supplies for the Local Animal Shelter

HMS Stars of the Month for January Yellow: Tyler Lapierre; Madison Aldsworth – Be Respectful Red: Lillie Hoskins; Gavin Roberts – Be Respectful Blue: Kayla Hoogerzeil; Aaron Perona – Be Respectful Green: Evan Seals; Sophia Sodhi – Be Respectful White: Alex Cordeiro; Chanel Gomez – Be Respectful Orange: Ali Faria; Spencer Boucher – Be Respectful Grade 6: Shuwei Carlson; Malachi Bastien - Be Respectful Grade 7: Jaxson Sousa; Anna Murphy - Be Respectful Grade 8: Tyler Massud; Jonathan Freeman - Be Respectful

Back row: Francesca Pais, Felicia Paniaqua, Dauphine Michel, Danielle Boardman, Olivia Hartling, Alyson Quin. Front row: Sydney DelMastro, Anna Murphy, Olivia Holajko The students in the Builders Club at the Dr. Kevin Hurley Middle School in Seekonk, MA collected supplies for the local animal shelter. Advisors, Mrs. Hilary Farrow and Mrs. Rebecca Kenney visited the Seekonk Animal Shelter on February 14, 2018 with the HMS Builders Club students to deliver the collected goods. The Seekonk Animal Shelter was extremely appreciative of the support from the HMS students and the local community with this important cause. The Builders Club enjoyed visiting the animals after dropping off the supplies they collected from their fellow students and faculty at HMS. The Builders Club is thankful for all of the support they received from friends, family, and their local community. “Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.” - Anatole France.

Felicia Paniaqua, Sydney DelMastro, Francesca Pais, and Danielle Boardman, girls from HMS Builders Club, loved meeting the shelter cats.

March 2018

The Reporter

Tri-County Regional Presents Cory’s Cause to the Senior Class Cory and his family have taken their experience and he, his mother Lori Palazzi and stepfather Dave Gonsalves now speak at schools about the dangers of drug usage and offer a message of hope for those faced with addiction. In an effort to help those who are dealing with the challenges the family once faced, they have formed the Cory’s Cause Foundation. Their goal is to help educate people about addiction and overdose, and to remove the stigma through sharing Cory’s story with the hope that other families won’t have to endure the pain that they’ve suffered. For more information on Cory’s Cause and to learn more about his story visit www.coryscause.com. Tri-County RVTHS, located at 147 Pond Street in Franklin, is a recipient of the High Schools That Work Gold Achievement Thanks to theand mostserves recent advances in laser dentistry, many dental procedures Award the communities of Franklin, Medfield, Medcan now completed withoutNorth the need for anesthetics,Plainville, vibration orSeekonk, the way,beMillis, Norfolk, Attleborough, disconcerting whine of the dental drill. Dr. Alan Merchanthouse employs just Sherborn, Walpole, and Wrentham. such technology in a relaxing country setting in Rehoboth. For the highest quality dental care – furnished by a highly trained and friendly staff of dental professionals – call (508) 252-6121 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Alan Merchanthouse.

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Michelle Tilden, Tri-County Vocational Senior PAWS Advisor and Early Education Instructor; Lynn Wencus, Tri-County Vocational Secretary; Stephen Dockray, Tri-County Regional Superintendent; Dave Gonsalves, Cory’s Stepfather; Lori Gonsalves, President of Cory’s Cause and Cory’s Mother; Cory Palazzi; State Reprentative Jeffrey Roy; and Jean George, Tri-County Vocational Director. Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School recently presented Cory’s Cause to the senior class. Cory Palazzi, of Taunton, is permanently disabled after suffering a brain injury caused by a heroin overdose which resulted after first becoming addicted to prescription opioids from an athletic injury. Cory now struggles to walk and has to use a wheelchair at times. He is legally blind, his speech is slow and he has trouble controlling certain muscles which makes him unable to do simple everyday tasks without help. The presentation was given to seniors as a part of the Positive Attitudes for Work Success (PAWS) program. PAWS prepares students for commitment to productive citizenship, gainful employment, personal responsibility and the setting of high standards of achievement in both vocational and academic courses. Seniors participate in a monthly seminar to address topics of concern in their transition from high school to college, career and/or military. All students are required to participate in the PAWS Program. During the presentation, seniors were fixated on Cory and listened as he talked about his experiences with drugs. His presence was very compelling and made the result of drug use and overdose very real. At the end of the presentation, many students asked Cory questions and were emotional over what they had seen and heard. Students also had the opportunity to shake his hand and thank him for his courage to share his story. “Tri-County is committed to making sure our students are well informed of the Opioid Crisis in today’s society,” said Michelle Tilden, Senior PAWS Advisor for Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School. “This has been a great opportunity for our seniors to hear the real-life story of someone whose life has been totally changed due to opioid addiction. We hope it has been a valuable life-learning experience for them and, as Cory says, that at least one life has been impacted by his presentation.” Massachusetts, as is our whole country, is in an opioid epidemic. Athletes in particular, due to their risk of injury and the resulting pain, may be at risk for misusing prescription opioids. Representative Jeffrey Roy, a member of the S.A.F.E. Coalition attended the assembly. Mr. Roy currently serves on the Board of Advisors. S.A.F.E. is a coalition of community partners who have come together to provide support, education, treatment options, and coping mechanisms for those affected by substance abuse disorder.

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The Reporter March 2018

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Mass Insight Education Names Two Tri-County Regional Teachers Partners in Excellence Award Winners Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School is proud to announce teachers, Matthew Murphy and Kimberly Zogalis, have been named Mass Insight Education and Research award recipients for their exemplary work in the AP STEM Program. They are a part of the 29 Massachusetts Advanced Placement (AP) teachers being recognized for their outstanding contributions to student success during the 2016-2017 academic year. Mass Insight Education is a national nonprofit dedicated to improving student achievement and increasing college success through bold district restructuring Matthew Murphy & Kimberly Zogalis and rigorous academic programs. This Teachers Partners in is particularly important within the urban Excellence Award Winners “gateway” communities in which MIE operates, as youth from economically challenged communities are not as typically afforded the personalized, high caliber instruction that is provided in the AP environment. The Partners in Excellence award winners were selected from over 600 AP teachers participating in Mass Insight’s AP program. Selections were based on their implementation of the program through participation in Saturday Study Sessions and the increases in student scores on the AP exam. “Tri-County is committed to providing students opportunities for college and career success,” said Stephen Dockray, Superintendent. “Each of these teachers consistently go above and beyond ensuring that our students have the skills necessary to succeed in their academic and vocational programs. Congratulations to Kim and Matt for their excellent service and dedication to Tri-County students.” Award recipients will be presented with a plaque and $750 check at the 6th annual Partners in Excellence Award Celebration, which will be held on Thursday, April 12, 2018 from 5:00-8:30pm in the Granite Room at Wachusett Mountain Ski Area in Princeton, MA.

Introducing the Tri-County Education Foundation

Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School (RVTHS) educators pride themselves in providing innovative ideas and technologies which maximizes every student’s potential and their future. Keeping up with this fast-paced growth is challenging because the investment reaches far beyond the financial means of the school district. Superintendent Stephen F. Dockray together with Christopher Ward, President of the Tri-County Education Foundation are pleased to announce the new Tri-County Education Foundation (The Foundation). The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization administered by a 10-member Board of Directors comprised of area business, finance, and education leaders with a vested interest in sustaining quality vocational-technical education programs and growing a capable workforce. The Foundation is a separate entity from Tri-County RVTHS, but shares the vision of providing and supporting both academic and vocational opportunities to benefit every student. “The Foundation was created by members of the community in an effort to support the common goal of aca-

March 2018 demic and vocational excellence for more than 1,000 students from eleven towns within the district,” said Christopher Ward, President of the Tri-County Education Foundation. “We hope to financially support academic and vocational projects and to provide student scholarships that Tri-County RVTHS cannot financially back due of limited funding or state law.” The monetary funds the Foundation receives to support these academic and vocational projects will come solely from donations, memorial gifts, and various fundraising activities that will take place within the community. All donations are tax deductible. The Foundation is currently seeking sponsorships within the community for financial support and commitment to the Tri-County community. Those organizations who would like to inquire about becoming a Tri-County Education Foundation sponsor, please go to the website at: https://tcedfoundation.wordpress.com.

The Reporter

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Citizens Scholarship Foundation of Dighton-Rehoboth Seniors Go Door-toDoor in Dighton and Rehoboth

Each year our community is invited to demonstrate support for local students. In the third week of March, Seniors from DightonRehoboth Regional High School go door-to-door to raise funds toward scholarships, which are available for any accredited form of higher education for a standard degree or certificate of study. A total of $39,475 was dispersed to the 63 Team members of the Class of 2017. Eligibility Requirement: Being a participant of the Door-to-Door Campaign--without exception--is required for eligibility of any funds from the Citizens Scholarship Foundation of Dighton-Rehoboth. March 16 through March 18, the Team members will visit all their neighbors and describe the Citizens Scholarship Foundation, now in its 58th year of benefiting the High School Seniors going on to

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The Reporter March 2018

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higher education. These students receive an equal share of the funds collected in this campaign. Other funds: The participants are also eligible for additional CSF scholarships. The deadline is April 6 to complete their online applications for these scholarships. Scholarship Notification Letters are awarded during the Celebration of Excellence, May 30. Applications: At Senior Assembly this year’s Class of 2018 learned the benefits of participating, how to join their town’s Team, how to earn their share of the funds collected during the Campaign, how to apply for additional scholarships, and some opportunities to increase community participation. The 14 routes in Dighton and the 27 routes in Rehoboth are allocated as first-come, first assigned to each student signing up for a Team. Seniors can apply at the High School’s Guidance Office. Team Captains: Through the Guidance Office, Seniors applied to become the Captain of the Door-to-Door Campaign Team of their home town. The chosen Dighton and Rehoboth Captains met with the Foundation to receive Scholarship information as well as their Captain’s instructions. At the March 7 meeting, Team Captains, their parents, and others interested will receive information on the Campaign as they assist in preparing the route packets with supplies and forms. Since 1961, CSF Dighton-Rehoboth has been providing opportunities for students. Together with the community we are investing in our greatest resource, our youth. Anyone can help in two ways: Make a contribution. Reflect your pride in our students and your commitment to the ongoing education of our young people. Donations can also be mailed per below. Share your time, your skills, and your ideas. Parents of D-R High School students in any grade, and all others interested, are welcome at all the Foundation’s monthly meetings, 7:00 P.M. in the High School Administrative Conference Room. CSF Of D-R, P. O. Box 696, Rehoboth MA 02769, (508) 222-5872

March 2018

The Reporter

Roots & Shoots Seekonk High School Science Club

The Roots & Shoots group of the SHS Science Club led by Hannah Hendricks is proud to announce that they reached their monetary goal with Donor’s Choose and will be getting a water bottle filler! They also just got word that they received a $200 grant from Jane Goodall’s Roots & Shoots to help with this same project! This money along with the funds raised through water bottle sales will be put towards installation and maintenance of the water bottle filler. There was an error with the production of the water bottles and they had to be remade. Water bottles should be delivered soon. Thank you to everyone for their support!! STEM Award applications were due March 1st for seniors. Students are recognized for their commitment to STEM at graduation. STEM Games will be held March 5th -March 8th. Student teams of 3 compete over the course of 4 days after school. Day 1 is a technology event, day 2 is an engineering event, day 3 is math and day 4 is science. Gold, silver & bronze medals are awarded to the top 3 teams in each grade level. SHS Science Club sent 2 teams to the Northeast Regional Science Bowl on Saturday, March 3rd.

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The Reporter March 2018

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March 2018

The Reporter

Rehoboth Council on Aging A Municipal Department of the Town

55 Bay State Road, Rehoboth, MA 02769

Phone 508-252-3373 Fax 508-252-4617

Monday through Thursday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Fridays 8:00 a.m. to 12 noon

Special Announcements

The COA will be closed Friday, March 30th for Good Friday.

Now Accepting Food Donations for the Trap/Neuter/Release Program

RAA provides a Trap/Neuter/Release Program (TNR) in the Town of Rehoboth. The group had a very productive year in 2017. The total number of cats and kittens helped through the TNR program was 145 of which 70 were adopted or in foster care. Rehoboth Animal Advocates, Inc. (RAA) is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization relying on donations, fundraisers and dedicated benefactors. RAA is committed to the care and support of abandoned and neglected animals, and to the assistance of shelter animals. Fundraising is a priority to cover the expense of cages, food, supplies and neutering.

Core Class

Tuesdays at 2:00pm

The class will be taught by Karen Damiecki. Karen is our Yoga instructor. All are welcome to join the class. This class is designed for those who want to increase strength, flexibility, balance and endurance using light weights, low-impact cardio, a resistance band, balls and chairs. Below are some of the benefits of the class: • Renewed energy and endurance • Enhanced flexibility and balance • Decreased joint and back pain • Better circulation • Reduced depression and anxiety • Improved sleep • Lower blood pressure • Improved cognitive skills

COA Corner

We are looking for children’s print fabric donations. We make pillowcases for Sturdy Hospital in lieu of the plastic “Personal Belongings” bag. The bags are given to kids coming in for surgeries, sleep studies, etc., to put their stuff in and take with them when they go home. We are also looking for yarn donations to make chemo hats and infant hats.

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

Start your day off with good home style cooked breakfast or have a mid-day snack for those who wake up with or before the chickens! Come on in and join us!

Tasty Thursdays Lunch

Tasty Thursday Lunch is held on the last Thursday of the Month at 12 Noon. Please come in and join us for lunch with friends. We will have Dollar Store Bingo sponsored by Marion Manor. Cost $3.00 donation.

Musical Mondays

Have fun with this group blending your voices in harmony and song. They meet on the first and third Mondays of the month at 1:00 PM. New voices are always welcome.

Men’s Morning Coffee Fridays at 9:00 AM

Come in and enjoy fresh coffee, pastry, and conversation with this lively group of men.

Card Games

Calling All Card Players

Mondays 9:30 AM - Cribbage Wednesdays12:30 PM - Hi-Lo Jack Come on in and try your luck and have a great time doing it. All are welcome and if you are not sure how to play the folks will gladly teach you.

Art Classes

Michelle’s Art Classes - Cost for this is $4.00. Come on in and join us. Art Classes are Wednesday’s at 10:30. Old and new students are welcome. Come in and have fun painting. Art Class will start up again on February 14th.

Knitting and Crochet Group Fridays at 10:00 AM

If you like to knit or Crochet or you wanted to learn this amazing Craft the Ladies of the Needles are always there to share their knowledge with you. Don’t be shy; women and men are both invited. Come in and try it out.

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Gert’s Café

Mondays at 12:00 PM Lunch is served at Gert’s Café. Stop in and enjoy a delicious lunch for the bargain price of a $3.00 donation. Please sign up.

Soup’s On

Tuesdays from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM

Small 16oz Soup and Sandwich $3.00 Small 16oz Soup $2.00 or Large 32oz Soup $3.00 donation. To be announced on the Monday before.

The COA Breakfast

Wed from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM

The COA is serving egg sandwiches, 2 pieces of French toast or 2 pancakes for $2.00 donation and with your choice of ham, sausage, bacon or home fries for an extra $.50 and coffee for $.25.

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The Reporter March 2018

Ladies Sewing and Quilting Guild Tuesdays at 10:30 AM

This is our charitable sewing group. We will still be making pillowcases, baby blankets & quilts. No experience necessary.

Blood Pressure & Glucose Screenings

Our town of Rehoboth nurse, Jamie, will be available for blood pressure and glucose screenings. Please contact the COA 508252-3372 for more information.

Podiatry Clinic with Dr. Marian Markowitz

Dr. Markowitz’s appointments start at 10:00 AM. Please call 508-252-3372 to schedule your appointment.

Tai Chi Classes

Tuesdays At 9:00 am

A way to exercise that’s easy on the joints and helps with balance... Makes a whole new you and has a great positive outcome for any age. Cost is $3.00 per class.

Line Dancing Classes Tuesdays at 10:00 AM

Get in the grove if you like dancing. Everyone is welcome to try out some steps. Cost is $3.00 per class.

Core Class

Tuesdays at 2:00 PM

This class is designed for those who want to increase strength, flexibility, balance and endurance using light weights, low-impact cardio, a resistance band, balls and chairs. Cost $3.00

Chair Yoga Exercise Classes Thursdays at 9:00 AM

Come and try this gentle style of yoga that’s performed mostly from a seated position. Cost $3.00

Zumba

Thursdays at 10:00 AM

Zumba is a fun aerobic workout that mixes in dance moves. Dance to great music, with great people, and burn calories without even realizing it. Cost is $3.00.

Meals on Wheels

and other important information that could benefit you, your family or friends.

The Best Is Yet to Come

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. Reminder: SNAP (Nutrition Program – Food Stamps) benefits can be applied for through this office. Please call for particulars on how to apply. Don’t be deciding whether to buy medication, pay bills or food for the table – Call Bradley Marshall to discuss areas of help he can assist you with. Reminder: FUEL ASSISTANCE – State Fuel Assistance applications for 2017-2018 winter season. New applications can be done anytime up to April 15, 2108. For additional questions for this service please call Bradley Marshall who can answer questions and help guide you in preparing a new application for this heating year which began November 1st. New Applications are available in this office so please call for an appointment. If you are low on heating fuel – ¼ tank or less – Call the Outreach Office – Bradley Marshall – to see if you qualify for emergency assistance. We have been receiving multiple requests for emergency assistance at this time much of the funds for Emergency assistance have been depleted, but due call and we will do what we can to assist. Preferable those that need assistance to call to set up an appointment to come in to do an application either for the Citizens for Citizens Fuel Assistance program or the Good Neighbor program.

Please contact Bristol Elders at (508) 675-2101 for information. A senior social group that helps sponsor and do activities that members suggest. They meet on the 2nd Thursday of the month at 1:00 PM at the Senior Center. They have many great activities through out the year. Annual dues are $6.00.

Senior Citizens Club

The Rehoboth Senior Citizens Club is a social and charitable club to help seniors in Rehoboth have a better life. Meetings are scheduled for the 1st Thursday at 12:30 and the 3rd Thursday at 12 Noon at the Rehoboth Council of Aging building.

The Friends of The Elderly

The Friends of the Elderly help and partially fund some of the services at the Rehoboth Council on Aging - such as the podiatry. Friends meet at 10:30 AM on the 3rd Monday of the month. New members are always welcome.

Veterans’ Information & Benefits

Veterans Service Officer, Jake Kramer, can help you. Call 508-252-4467 for an appointment. Office hours are Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM and Friday 8:00 AM - Noon.

Important Information About Joining Activities

Registration is required for all upcoming programs. All activities have participant signup sheets. Most of the activity programs that are in the Council on Aging are free and open to the public. Some programs require minimum attendance. If there is no interest then that activity will either be canceled or postponed. Please call 508-252-3372 for information on all activities or to sign up.

COA Bulletin Post On Community Information:

Please check the bulletin boards every time you come in to the Council on Aging for information on up coming events such as Free Health Screenings, Support Groups,

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Some points of interest that have come up since the passage of the Tax Reform bill that seniors have inquired about.

Straight Talk for Seniors®: The Final Tax Reform Bill

Congress has passed a tax reform bill that merges the two versions passed earlier by each chamber. The final bill includes several provisions that NCOA and other aging advocates are concerned will harm older Americans, especially those who are most vulnerable. Below are highlights. • Federal Deficit: The bill increases the federal deficit by almost $1.5 trillion. According to the nonpartisan official scorekeeping Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT), increases in economic growth would reduce that to about $1.1 trillion. Recent statements from Republican leaders have made it clear that if the deficit increases significantly, their next priority will be to cut programs— including Medicare, Medicaid, the Older

March 2018 The Reporter Americans Act (OAA), and possibly Social Security—to make up for it. In fact, the Congressional budget blueprint that Republicans passed this fall proposed $473 billion in Medicare cuts, $1 trillion in Medicaid cuts, and $800 billion in cuts to non-defense discretionary programs like the OAA. • Individual Mandate: The bill keeps the Senate provision to repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA) individual mandate, which is projected to cause an estimated 13 million Americans to lose their health insurance. Approximately 3.3 million older adults aged 55-64 currently receive their health insurance under the ACA and could face premium increases of over $1,000 per year. • Medical Expense Deduction: It keeps the Senate provision to retain the Medical Expense Deduction for those with high outof-pocket health costs, and it reduces the threshold from 10% to 7.5% for two years in 2018 and 2019. Almost 5 million taxpayers aged 65+ use the deduction. • State and Local Tax Deductions: The bill maintains the House provision not to completely repeal all state and local tax deductions. It includes not only property taxes, but also state and local income and sales taxes, in reaching a $10,000 cap. • Tax Cut Expiration: It maintains the Senate provisions to make the corporate tax cuts permanent, while most tax cuts for individuals would expire in 2025. Extending these expiring cuts will increase the deficit even more than estimated. • Charitable Tax Deductions: Although the bill maintains charitable tax deductions, it also increases the standard deduction and doubles the estate tax from $5.5 million to $11 million. According to JCT, doubling the standard deduction would reduce the number of itemizers who deduct charitable contributions from 40.7 million to 9.4 million, reducing the amount of contributions by $95.8 billion. • Consumer Price Index: The bill increases taxes by about $130 billion over 10 years by changing how inflation is measured to adjust income tax thresholds. By using a lower “chained” Consumer Price Index (CPI), many middle and lower-income taxpayers will be pushed more quickly into higher tax brackets due to inflation. These tax increases grow from $2 billion in 2019 to about $30 billion in 2027, and over $500 billion from 20282037. Senior advocates are worried that this use of the chained CPI increases the chances that Social Security cost of living adjustments will be cut the same way in the future. • Program Cuts: Due to the increased deficit and budget sequestration (PAYGO) rules, passage of the bill would automatically trigger $136 billion in program cuts next year, including $25 billion in Medicare cuts and potential elimination of the Prevention and Public Health Fund and Social Services Block Grant program. However, Congress is expected to waive these rules so that the cuts will not occur.

Rehoboth Senior Citizens Club - The Inside Scoop

Gert and Dr. Bruce Thayer make applesauce cake

Yearly dues of $4.00 are to be paid in May. Make your check out to the Rehoboth Senior Citizens Club and mail in care of the senior center, 55 Bay State Rd. The Club meets the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month. The first Thursday is a regular meeting that begins at 12:30 and bingo is played after the meeting. The 3rd Thursday begins at noon with a meal, then a brief meeting as we have different activities; such as, meals, games, entertainment, etc.

• March 15th a St. Patrick Day meal is planned. • May 3rd A bus trip to Wright's Farm is being planned. Sign-up by April 12th is required. • May 17th is the annual 90th Birthday Party for members turning 90 this year. • May 19th the Club is having a Craft and Yard Sale from 9:00 to 3:00 on the grounds of the senior center. Spaces are $15.00. Must have own tables, chairs, canopies and take home what is not sold. To reserve a space send a non-refundable payment of $5.00 made out to the Rehoboth Senior Citizens Club, Inc. and mail in care of the senior center. For questions please call Diana 508 336-4195 or Lorraine 508 916-0971. • June 21st is the annual Strawberry Festival at the senior center from 12:00 to 3:00. • July 19th is the annual picnic at Country Gardens from 11 to 3. After the meal, bingo is played. Price not determined as yet. • Annual Fall Bazaar is October 20th at the senior center from 9:00 to 3:00. Club is asking members for crafts, knitted goods, and items for prizes. We would appreciate anyone's help the day of the event. • November 15th is Thanksgiving luncheon 12:00 to 3:00. • December 20th is Christmas party 12:00 to 3:00.

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The Reporter March 2018

Seekonk Human Services Seekonk Human Services Staff Telephone: (508) 336-8772 FAX: (508) 336-2239 Executive Director Bernadette Huck Assistant Director Brittney Faria Senior Secretary Ashley Cartwright, MBA Clerk Kimberly Mallon Outreach Veronica Brickley, LPN BA SOC LSWA Education & Social Program Carol Poncin Office Clerk Maggie Perkins Sharon Bettencourt Executive Board Members

Beverly Della Grotta, Chairperson Irene Andrews, Vice Chairperson Anne Libby, Secretary Anita Gendron Christine Allen Guy Boulay Josephine Veader

*Center Hours

Monday – Thursday 8:30 – 4:30, Friday 8:30 – 12:30 Evening Appointments Upon Request 540 Arcade Avenue Seekonk, MA 02771

Daylight Saving Time Begins! Sunday, March 11

Don’t Forget To Turn Your Clock Spring Forward.

St. Patrick’s Day Celebration

Wednesday, March 14 at 10am

Come join us as we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a favorite traditional meal of corned beef, cabbage, potatoes, carrots, coffee and dessert for $2 and singing some traditional Irish music! Please sign up and pay in advance for the lunch. Entertainment by Seekonk’s very own, Barney O’Mallon Karaoke King

Hearing Clinic

Monday, March 19; 1:30pm-3:00pm

Chris Brissette from MASS Audiology will be at Seekonk Human Services to perform a hearing clinic. Appointments are approximately 10-15 minutes and are on a first come first serve basis. Please call Seekonk Human Services at 508-336-8772 to schedule your exam!

Iris Scanning

Wednesday, March 21 at 11am

The Bristol County Sheriff’s Office will be at Seekonk Human Services with a very special program. This Iris scanning program was implemented as a child safety program that uses technology, accessed through a high-resolution digital camera. This valuable tool is now also benefiting older adults. It is used to positively identify children and vulnerable adults in seconds by digitally encoding the unique characteristics of people’s irises and making the information available in seconds on a national database. To register for your scan, please call the Seekonk Human Services at 508-336-8772. Lunch will be French meat pie, veggies and mashed potatoes and dessert for $2. Please sign up and pay in advance for the lunch.

Easter Party

Wednesday, March 28 at 10am

Come celebrate Easter with us! Wear your favorite bonnet, hat or tie! Lunch will be ham, au gratin potatoes, and veggies with dessert for $2 Entertainment will be provided

Let’s Learn Together!

Online Forms And What’s a Pdf? Wednesday, March 28 at 2pm

More and more organizations are replacing paper forms with forms YOU have to print or fill-out online. If you have a tablet or laptop and want to learn how to handle these mysterious and frustrating PDF files, this class is for you! Bring your laptop or tablet so we can review common questions about dealing with online forms. Librarian Michelle Gario will lead this 90 minute class. Please make sure your laptop is fully charged or bring your cable and charger with your device. Contact the Senior Center to register by calling 508-336-8772

another special need. This information is kept confidential and only used in case of an emergency. Please mail the application back in the enclosed envelope or drop off at the Library, Town Hall or Seekonk Human Services (Senior Center). If you need more than one application please call Seekonk Human Services at 508-336-8772

Phones for Seniors

Wednesday, March 7 at 10am

A representative from AT&T will hosting a question and answer session on cell phone usage. Types of cell phone usage varies from GPS, text messages, photos, memory on the phone, videos, among other types of usage. Activity is free of charge.

Permanent Absentee Ballot

A permanent absentee ballot is for people who are a registered voter in the Town of Seekonk, MA and because of medical reasons or other reasons beyond their control are not able to make it to the polls to vote in ALL elections during the upcoming year. The permanent list is NOT for people who might be away on the day of the election is happening. That situation would require requesting an absentee ballot for that particular election. Applications for the permanent absentee ballot are available at Seekonk Human Services and the Town Hall. If you have any questions please contact the Town Clerk’s office at 508-336-2920. The Elections that are scheduled for 2018 to date are: April 2 - Annual Town Election and November 6, 2018 - State Election

Tech Time

Wed, March 14; 2pm-4pm

Brown Bags

Students from MTTI in Seekonk will be coming to Seekonk Human Services on the second Wednesday of the month from 2pm to 4pm to help individuals out with their electronics. Bring your laptop, tablet, or cell phone and learn what they all have to offer or clean out the hard drive of your computer.

Brown Bag drop off will be from 9:00am—11:00am and pick up at the center will be 11:15am to 12pm.

Grocery Shopping Assistance “BAGS”

March 28th

Emergency Assistance Applications

In this issue of the March newsletter, Seekonk Human Services included an emergency assistance application to help better serve our residents. This application is used for individuals who are in need of transportation in case of an emergency, handicap accessibility, use of specialized medical equipment, hearing impaired, sight impaired, oxygen dependent or

BAGS (Bringing Assistance with Groceries to Seniors) provides a personal shopper for frail Seekonk residents, 60 years of age or older, who are unable to shop for themselves. Human Services personnel assess the needs of the elder, review their grocery list, shop at local stores, bring home and unpack the groceries, if necessary. Elders who may be in crisis and in need of food immediately are served by the program on a priority basis. For more information, please call Seekonk Human Services at 508-336-8772.

March 2018 The Reporter

Chair Yoga

Advanced Floor Yoga

It has been shown to help alleviate or reduce many health challenges. The many benefits of Yoga have even been said to slow down the physical ailments associated with the aging process. Health benefits have included improvements in Sleep; Strength/ Arthritis; Diabetes; Hypertension; Excess Weight; Mood/Anxiety; Depression; Chronic Pain as well as Breathing.

This class is a Vinyasa practice that is taught at a slower pace to help students find beneficial alignment and nourishment in each pose. This a truly a practice for all and will leave you feeling energized and centered. Class is $5.

Knitting for the Needy

This ancient but effective form of exercise helps reduce stress and anxiety. It also helps increase flexibility and balance. Its benefits can help reduce back pain and pain from knee osteoarthritis, and improve quality of life. We hope you’ll join us!

Mon & Wed 10am - 10:50am

Mondays at 12:30pm

In our Knitting Club, our exceptional volunteers give their time to knit for those in need. The items are donated to Citizens for Citizens Inc., who then distributes them to needy families in Seekonk and other surrounding communities. Free yarn is available at Seekonk Human Services to all club members.

Zumba

Mondays at 1pm

Melissa Nelson will be instructing. Zumba is an aerobic fitness program featuring movements inspired by various styles of Latin American dance. This is fun way to burn calories and stay in shape.

Nutritional Meals

Tuesdays & Thursdays at 11:30am

Seekonk Human Services offers nutritional meals for $2 each. The menu will be available at Seekonk Human Services. Sign up is required for this as the meals are brought in from an outside agency.

Bingo Update

Thursdays at 1pm

BINGO cards will be sold from 12pm until 12:45pm on Thursdays. BINGO will start promptly at 1pm. No tickets will be sold after 12:45pm. Thank you!

Silver Sneakers

Tues. & Thurs. 10am - 10:45am

Have fun and move to the music through a variety of exercises designed to increase muscular strength, range of movement and activities for daily living. Resistance training and activities is achieved with the use of hand weights and tubing. A chair is used for seating and standing support.

Mahjong

Wednesdays At 1pm

American mahjong utilizes racks, jokers, “Hands and Rules” score cards and has several distinct game play mechanics.

Cribbage

Thursdays 1pm to 3pm

Cribbage players wanted! Come drop in on a Thursday afternoon and play cribbage.

Fridays 9am - 10am

Tai Chi

Fridays 10:15am – 11am

Men’s Breakfast

Thursday, March 8th at 9:30am

Toti’s Restaurant All men are welcome to attend and no sign up is required. Bring a friend with you to enjoy a delicious breakfast. There is no set price for breakfast, order what you want, pay for what you order.

Women’s Brunch

Thursday, March 15th at 10:00am

All women are invited to attend, there is no sign up necessary. Bring a friend and enjoy good food and good conversation. All meals are dutch treat.

Balance -- Memory -- Weight

Three of the biggest problems for senior citizens are poor balance, memory loss and the inability to loose excess weight. Using the Wii Fit Plus program on a regular basis can help you with all three of these things. Exercise is not always easy and sometimes it hurts. This is a painless and fun way to exercise. I would love to show you how this program could help you. Contact Nancy at 508-336-9547

Seekonk Senior Shopping Day By GATRA (800) 483-2500

Tues from 10:15am to 11:30am

GATRA will go to WalMart, Stop & Shop and Pricerite in Seekonk. Please call GATRA to schedule your shopping day.

Circuit Breaker

What is the Circuit Breaker Tax Credit?

The Circuit Breaker Tax Credit is a state income tax credit for eligible Massachusetts residents age 65 or older who paid rent or real estate taxes during the tax year. The credit is for senior homeowners and renters who meet income limits and other eligibility requirements. Homeowners may claim the credit if they paid more than 10% of their total income for real estate taxes, including

water charges. Renter can count 25% of their rent as real estate tax payments. You must file a state income tax return to claim the Circuit Breaker Credit, whether or not you have to file other-wise. If your credit is greater than the amount of income taxes you owe, the state will give you a refund for the different. That maximum credit for tax year 2016 is $1070. Am I eligible? The Circuit Breaker Tax Credit is for low and moderate income seniors whose real estate tax payments are greater than 10% of their income. Homeowners and renters can claim the credit. Income Guidelines: • $57,000 single • $71,000 head of household • $86,000 married filing jointly *Total income includes some types of non-taxable income, such as social security, retirement, pensions and annuities, cash public assistance, tax-exempt interest and dividends, and certain other income. To Qualify: • You or your spouse must be 65 or older by the end of the year • If married, you must file jointly • You must rent/own a home in MA that is your primary residence • Your property’s assessed value can’t exceed $691,000 by January 1, 2012 • If you’re a renter you can’t be getting federal/state rent subsidy and your landlord must pay property taxes

Fuel Assistance

If you had fuel assistance last year, be on the look-out for your application. File the application as soon as you get it. If you have never had fuel assistance and would like to apply or if you need help filing your application, please call Seekonk Human Services at 508-336-8772 to make an appointment with the Outreach Department. Fuel Assistance begins November 1st. Income Guidelines: Maximum income for 1 person is $34,380, for 2 people is $44,958, for 3 people is $55,537, and for 4 people is $66,115. Income includes your social security, pensions and any interest income. Everyone must include picture ID and social security cards. Needed Documents: Proof of income: • 4 consecutive pay stubs • Social Security Award Letter or 1099 • Pension (Current 1099) • Interest Dividends (1099) • List of everyone in household plus their income • Food Stamps—copy of verification Homeowner’s must include: • Mortgage statement • Real estate tax bill • Insurance bill • Recent copy of electric bill and gas/oil bill

The Reporter March 2018

Renters Include: • Rent receipt • Recent copy of electric bill and gas/ oil bills

Gatra Transportation Service 1-800-483-2500

Riding Dial-A-Ride is Easy: To be considered for Dial-A-Ride service, customers must completed GATRA’s Statewide Access Pass and ADA Paratransit Eligibility Application form and/or a Senior Application. BEFORE CALLING, HAVE YOUR TRIP INFORMATION READY. Exact address and requested travel times are required. The day before your travel date, please call the office to check your pick up times. We ask that you call the office between 4:30pm and 6:00pm Monday through Friday, and between 9am and 6pm on Saturday. Making a Reservation: Make your reservation Monday through Friday from 8:30am to 4:30pm. Dial-A– Ride Service Area: The Seekonk Dial-A-Ride service takes riders to the following towns ONLY: • Rehoboth • Plainville (Thursday 10am to 2pm ONLY) • Attleboro (Thursday 10am to 2pm ONLY) • North Attleboro (Thursday 10am to 2pm ONLY) • East Providence, North Providence, Pawtucket, Providence (Mon., Wed., & Fri.)

2018 TRIPS

Newport Playhouse Wednesday, March 21

Depart: 10am Return: 5pm Cost: $60 per person (driver gratuity included) Newport Playhouse, “Remember Me.” Written by Sam Bobrick. Directed by Daniel Lee White. A couple in the mid-forties to early fifties, who have a happy but tired marriage, find themselves examining their relationship after woman’s college boyfriend shows up... or doesn’t. Enjoy the delicious lunch buffet which includes dessert. After the play enjoy the cabaret. You are in for a laugh! Trip sign up and 50% deposit is due at the time of sign up in person, no phone

Hungry? Find good food right in your neighborhood!

Dining Guide on page 90

call sign ups. **Residents must sign up by February 10th. None residents can begin signing up on February 15th**

Niagara Falls

Sun, June 3 - Wed, June 6

Departure: TBD Return: TBD Cost: $555 per double, $525 per triple, and $755 per single Trip includes: round trip transportation, 3 nights lodging at the Double Tree Niagara Falls, 2 dinners, 3 breakfasts, 1 discover pass for admission to (Maid of the Mist, Cave of the Winds, Adventure Theatre, Niagara Aquarium, Discovery Center and Trolley Ride). Trip sign up and 50% deposit is due at the time of sign up in person, no phone call sign ups.

Newport Playhouse Lobster Fest June 2018

Depart: 10am Return: 5pm Cost: $65 per person (driver gratuity included) Newport Playhouse, “The Lone Star.” The owner of a vast fortune and a two hundred thousand acre Texas ranch has died. His will refers to the butler, the maid, his niece and the neighbor, Tammy Jo, as well as a formula and sample of what appears to be a love potion. Can it really work? It has the potential to be worth billions to whoever can obtain it! Before long everyone is testing it with hilarious results. Only in the last 30 seconds of the play is the surprising truth revealed. Trip sign up and 50% deposit is due at the time of sign up in person, no phone call sign ups.

Theatre By The Sea July 2018

Depart: TBD Return: TBD Cost: TBD MAMMA MIA! Prepare to have the time of your life at Mamma Mia! Sophie, a 20-year-old bride-to-be, is on the search for her father. After reading her mother’s diary, she discovers there are three potential suitors. Unbeknownst to her mother, Donna, Sophie invites each of them in hopes of having one of them walk her down the aisle. As the big day draws near, surprises abound with old flames and old friends. MAMMA MIA! is packed with 22 ABBA hits, including “Dancing Queen,” “Super Trouper,” “Take A Chance on Me,” and “The Winner Takes It All.” This worldwide megahit will have audiences shouting “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!” more! Lunch will be at Bistro by the Sea. Trip sign up and 50% deposit is due at the time of sign up in person, no phone call sign ups. *Please note: All trips leave from Seekonk Human Services unless otherwise noted. 50% deposit is required at sign up and final payment must be made two weeks prior to trip. Checks are to be made payable

to the Town of Seekonk. To ensure trips are not cancelled please sign up one month prior to trip at the latest in order to give the tour company an accurate count. For any information regarding trips please contact Seekonk Human Services at 508-336-8772. Please utilized the Knights of Columbus parking lot first**

Podiatry Clinic with Podiatrist, Dr. Alan Lechan

Wednesday, March 14; 1pm – 3pm

Dr. Lechan will be coming to Seekonk Human Services to perform a podiatry clinic. Please bring your insurance cards, list of medications and if possible a print out from your last doctors visit. To schedule an appointment please call 508-336-8772.

Bereavement Support Series

Six Week Bereavement Support Series for Adults Experiencing Loss Are you experiencing grief? Do you feel like no one understands what you are going through? Community VNA Hospice & Palliative Care welcomes you to join its free, six-week Grief Series, led by trained bereavement counselors. This grief support series offers information and support on the experience of loss and guides participants beginning their journey toward healing. Topics will include: • Understanding the Grief Experience • Between Grief and Healing • Helping Yourself Through Grief • Grief and Your Emotions • On the Way to Healing • Promises to Keep: Gratitude and Remembrance Each session takes place at Community VNA, 10 Emory Street, Attleboro, MA. Meetings are held once a week beginning March 14, 2018 from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM. Registration by March 1st is required. Contact Kathryn Henderson, Spiritual and Bereavement Care Coordinator, to register, or for additional information by emailing khenderson@ communityvna.com; or, call 508.222.0118, ext. 1372. Throughout the year, Community VNA Hospice & Palliative Care provides bereavement support. These support programs include regular meetings for adults and periodic programs for children. The bereavement care coordinator also assists individuals with finding ongoing psychological support. All programs and services are provided to the public free of charge. For additional hospice and palliative care resources, visit www.communityvna. com.

March 2018 The Reporter

Special Needs Assistance Request If you (or someone you know) have a disability or a need that would require special assistance in an emergency (i.e. storms, pandemic etc.) please complete and return this form today and return it to the Seekonk Human Services. Information provided on this form is stored in a secure database and will ONLY be used to assist emergency response personnel in an emergency situation. If you have any questions regarding this form, please call our office at (508) 336-8772. Place an "X" in each space that applies to you:

Please describe any other special assistance you would need in an emergency:

__________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ Name: _______________________________________________ Address: _____________________________________________

___ I do not have transportation available to evacuate the area in an emergency ___ I am able to ride in a van or bus without special accommodations. ___ I am in a wheelchair and would require a wheelchair accessible van. ___ I have specialized medical equipment and require special transportation. Please indicate equipment used: ___________________________ ___ I am hearing impaired and use TTY. If TTY is used, what is your TTY No._____________ ___ I am sight impaired and require special help. ___ I am oxygen dependent.

______________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________ Phone: ________________________________________________ Email: _________________________________________________ Emergency Contact: ___________________________________ Relationship: __________________________________________ Phone Number: _______________________________________ Signature: _____________________________________________ Email Address: bfaria@seekonk-ma.gov or acartwright@ seekonk-ma.gov

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The Reporter March 2018

IN MEMORIAM Rehoboth Christine, (Rossi) Coia, 95, formerly of Foote Street, Barrington and Lorson Lane, Rehoboth, MA, died peacefully on January 24, 2018 in Tamarac, FL. Edward J. Noonan, 90, of Rehoboth passed away on Friday, February 9, 2018.

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

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

Durand Insurance Agency

Grief is a Journey At Waring-Sullivan Home of Memorial Tribute at Birchcrest, we hold your hand every step of the way. We are conveniently located just 4 miles from the Rehoboth border.

Receive a free Personal Planning Guide

Dorothy Marie (Harrington) Costa, 81, of Rehoboth Ma., died Saturday February 17, 2018 at the Country Gardens Nursing Home in Swansea.

Seekonk On Saturday, January 27, Timothy “Tanner” Raymond Allison, son, brother, uncle, godfather, friend, passed away comfortably at the age of 33 due to complications following his second lung transplant. Ernest W. Allen, 77, of Colonial Road, passed away Friday February 2, 2018 at the Rhode Island Hospital surrounded by his loving family. Marcel R. Lefebvre, 82, formerly of Cumberland, passed away Tuesday, February 6, 2018 at the Woonsocket Health and Rehabilitation Center, Woonsocket. Antonio S. Couto, age 82, of Central Ave., Seekonk, died February 6, 2018 at Pawtucket Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation.

name address city state zip phone email Do you have pre-arrangements? m Yes m No I’m interested in: m Funeral pre-arrangements m Information on cremation options m Free Personal Planning Guide m Free cost estimate

In-home appointments are also available.

WARING-SULLIVAN

home of memorial tribute at birchcrest 189 GARDNERS NECK ROAD SWANSEA, MA 02777

Waring-Sullivan.com 508-676-1933 A Service Family Affiliate of AFFS and Service Corporation International, 206 Winter Street, Fall River, MA 02720. (508) 676-2454.

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

March 2018 The Reporter

Barbara M. (Brickley) Armstrong

Raymond A. Axile

Barbara M. (Brickley) Armstrong

Raymond A. Axile

Barbara M. (Brickley) Armstrong, 92, of Rehoboth, died peacefully on January 3, 2018, at Steere House surrounded by her loving family. She was the wife of Robert C. “Bud” Armstrong. Born in Providence, she was the daughter of the late Frank A. Brickley & Sarah E. “Sadie” (Hoyle) Brickley of East Providence, Rhode Island. Barbara was a graduate of URI with a degree in Education. In addition to her studies she was very fond of dancing, music and plays. She was a very talented tole painter and artist which she practiced for many years. Barbara was a dedicated, patient and loving mother to her three children. In addition to her husband, she leaves her loving children: Robert C. Armstrong, Jr., of Rehoboth, Mass., Susan K. Armstrong, of North Pomfret, Vermont, and the late Kathie A. Armstrong. She was the loving grandmother known as “Baba” of Samantha Armstrong Toohey, of Norway, Maine, and Lindsay Armstrong Mitchell, of Barrington, Rhode Island, and great grandmother of Katie and Abby Toohey. She was a sister of the late Ann V. Dutra and Jean F. Brophy. A memorial service will be held in the spring at Rehoboth Village Cemetery. Calling hours are respectfully omitted. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Steere House in Providence who provided loving care to Baba for many years. www. steerehouse.org/Make_AGift/gift Arrangements have been entrusted to J.H. WILLIAMS & CO. FUNERAL HOME. For online messages of condolence, kindly visit www.jhwilliamsfuneralhome.com

Raymond A. Axile, 77, of Margate, Fl., passed away on January 26, 2018 at his home. Born in Seekonk, Massachusetts, he had been a resident of Florida 47 years, coming from Providence. While still in school, he was a baseball star in his hometown.

Before retiring he was a truck driver and member of the accident review board with the Sun Sentinel newspaper in Fort Lauderdale for many years. While there he received many awards for dedicated service, customer satisfaction, and being well respected by fellow co-workers as well as department heads. All while setting the example of standards for others well above those set by the department itself. Ray was a body building enthusiast and placed third in the Mr. New England competition in the 1960›s. Survivors include his wife of 53 years, Pauline Axile of Margate; his brother, Manuel Axile ad his wife Sandra of Seekonk and his sisters, Madeline Axile of East Providence, R.I. and Dolores Andrews and her husband Anthony of Seekonk. Visitation was Thursday February 1, 2018 at the Forest Hills Funeral Home in Palm City, Fl. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, Palm City, followed by interment at Forest Hills Memorial Park.

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 March 2018

March 2018 The Reporter

Dining Guide

Baklava

by Chef Jean-Louis Lagalle A cross between a cookie and a candy, this sweet & crispy pastry is a mouthful of heaven…. What makes it a great food for Lent?…except for butter (which can be replaced with oil or margarine), there is no animal product in it and its serving size is appropriately small (little is needed to be satisfied). Baklava has been around for centuries. Its origin comes from the Middle East, but it is hard to pinpoint what country created it first. To make it their own, every border crossing added a flavor twist to the pastry—changing the type of dough, nut, syrup, spice… Baklava is traditionally made with pistachio nuts, honey syrup and Phyllo dough layers—Phyllo in Greek means leaf and that might be why baklava sounds like a Greek pastry nowadays. Kept and served at room temperature, this recipe should be made at least one day ahead for the syrup to soak in. Baklava keeps for days, but it is crispier when it is fresher. This recipe will make about 32 (3 by 2-inch) Triangle Servings of Baklava in a 12 by 8-inch pan.

For the layers:

• 1 lb. of unsalted nuts (pistachio is traditionally used, but any nut will do) • 8 oz. of unsalted butter • One 16-ounce package of defrosted Phyllo dough sheets (or 15-30 sheets the size of your pan)

For the syrup:

• 1 lb. of Honey • 7 oz. of sugar, granulated • 4 oz. of water • 3 oz of orange juice, fresh • 1 cinnamon stick

Directions:

• Chop the nuts to less than 1/4-inch size and lightly toast them in a 300 F. oven for 10 minutes (try to keep the pistachios green for better look). • Combine the honey, sugar, water, orange juice, and cinnamon stick in a pot. • Brush a 12x8x1-inch sheet pan with melted butter. • Open Phyllo dough package at the last moment (it dries very fast). • Trim the layers to fit your pan size (it is still ok if you are 1/2-inch short from the edge). • Preheat oven to 375F. • Place one layer of dough on the bottom of the pan and brush with butter. • Repeat with at least four more layers of dough (no more than 10). • Spread half of the nuts on the last layer of dough. • Place one layer of dough on the top of the nuts and brush with butter. • Repeat the layering of dough sheets, spread the remaining of the nuts on the top, and repeat again the layering of dough to top it all off. • For the tedious delicate part: using a very sharp knife, slice the build layers into small even shapes (square, rectangle, diamond or triangle). Slice completely through the layers (move pieces of dough that might shift back in place). • Bake until the pastry is golden brown and crispy (about 30 minutes). • Meanwhile, boil and then simmer the syrup for 10 minutes. Strain. • Remove the baklava from the oven, and while it is still hot, stream the hot honey syrup over the hot baklava slowly and evenly. • Set aside to cool and then recut baklava along lines all the way through again. • Store in an airtight container at room temperature. • Serve at room temperature after 24 hours minimum.

Restaurant & Lounge Kitchen Hours: Thurs - Saturday - 4:30 - 10pm Open Sunday - 10-3pm Live Entertainment Fri - Sunday Monthly Karaoke and more Download the Hillside CC app to stay up to date! 82 Hillside Ave., Rehoboth MA 508.252.5563 www.hillsidecountryclub.com

COUNTRY KITCHEN Serving Breakfast & Lunch

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

CATERING AVAILABLE

Take out Available (508) 336-9807 469 Taunton Ave., Rt. 44, Seekonk, MA

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

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The Reporter March 2018

CLASSIFIEDS

Place Classified ads at www.ReporterToday.com

1 To 15 Words - $10 • 16 To 30 Words - $15 Business Classified $35 for 30 words Additional Words $.25 each

WANTED

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

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.

Independent contractor to operate Wash/Dry/Fold business. Serious inquiries only! Leave a message at (401) 433-2708.

Senior looking for pet friendly home to rent in Seekonk or Rehoboth. Please call 401-588-1138.

Toyota Corolla 1999 sedan. Red 169k $2,000.00 obo Joe 401-644-5495.

FOR SALE

BARN SALE

HELP WANTED

Help Wanted: Straight Up Cleaning LLC is looking for part-time cleaners that are hard working, dependable and detail oriented. Experience preferred but not required. Bending and light lifting are a must. Must have a vehicle with valid insurance and consent to a background check. Please contact Jennifer Reis at 401.954.4862 or straightupcleaning@yahoo.com. Help Wanted: Landscaper - full or parttime, good pay. Must be hard worker. Call for more info. 508-252-5822.

BARN SALE Thursday, March 15th at Noon. 74 Summer St. Tools, Furniture, L&G, Junque, etc. Everything Must Go.

FREE STUFF

Free. Piano. Spinet. Has practicano pedal. Ground floor, no stairs. 508-838-8248.

EVENTS

First Spiritualist Church of Brockton Psychic Medium Fair. 243 Winthrop St, Rehoboth, MA. March 17 from 10-5. Psychics, Mediums, Healers, Vendors and More. See our event on FB.

Warming up the Community

THE AREA’S LARGEST SHOWROOM

HOME SHOW SPECIAL

FREE INSTALLATION March 29 to April 14

HALL RENTALS

Riverside Sportsman Assoc. Mohawk Drive off Wampanoag Trail. For all occasions: Birthday parties, Family Reunions, Club/Organization Meetings. Cash Bar. Monthly Steak Fries. Tickets now on sale for spring clam boil/raffle. Call Arthur 401-8310561 or 401-433-0209 for more information.

VACATION RENTALS

SKI HOUSE WHITE MOUNTAINS NH/ FRANCONIA: Custom log cabin home in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, located on Pearl Lake Rd. Minutes from Cannon Mt., Loon, and Brenton Woods. Booking now for winter - snowmobiling trails right out of our driveway! Sleeps 6, fireplace, full kitchen. Weekly $600 and weekends $250. For info and pics call Joe at 401-439-8089. 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. $500 Weekly. Call 401-480-0374 or 5083368432.

CLASSES / LESSONS

PIANO LESSONS: Taught in my home, both classical and popular to persons of all ages. Anita Russo, 8 Terrybrooke Road, Rehoboth 508-252-4208.

GENERAL SERVICES

Housecleaning. Brazilian housecleaner with years of experience. (Google Brazilian housecleaning in Boston, to see why they are everywhere in Boston). Guaranteed best in the business! Call Gil for details 508-840-6611.

AREAʼS LARGEST SWINGSET DISPLAY

up to $500 VALUE

775 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk, MA

thefireplaceshowcase.com

508.336.2600

Tues - Fri 10-6; Sat 9-5

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March 2018 The Reporter

Business Directory CATEGORY Accountant Appliance Repairs Art Supplies/Framing Attorney Attorney Auto Body Auto Parts Auto Repairs Auto Repairs Automotive Bank Bird Feed & Supplies Bridal Shop Building Contractor Building Contractor Candidate - Rehoboth Candidate - Rehoboth Candidate - Rehoboth Candidate - Rehoboth Candidate - Rehoboth Candidate - Seekonk Candidate - Seekonk Candidate - Seekonk Candidate - Seekonk Carpet Cleaning Carpet Cleaning Child Care Child Care Chimney Cleaning Chimney Services Church Church Cleaning Service Collectibles Concrete Contractor Consignment Store Construction Country Club Country Club Credit Union Dentist Dentist Dentist Dentist Dentist Dentist Dog Grooming Drones Electrician Electrician Electrician

COMPANY NAME

PAGE

MLR Tax Services Affordable Appliance Repair Co. Gregory D. Dorrance, Co. Laurie P. Mullen Law Office of Luke P. Travis Tri Star Autobody, Inc. Northeastern Auto Supply New England Tire Somerset Subaru Yankee Auto Electric Coastway Community Bank Wild Birds Unlimited Ana’s Bridal Boutique A.M. Carpentry M.G. Salois Construction George M. Solas, Candidate Laura & Gerald Schwall Michael Deignan, Candidate Rehoboth Republican Town Comm Tony Oliveira, Candidate Cynthia E. Corbett David M. Melo, Candidate David S. Parker David Viera Earle’s Carpet Cleaning M & S Carpet & Upholstery Alphabet Tree Preschool Twin Oaks Farm Learning Center RD Chimney Sweep Kenny’s Masonry & Chimney Sweep Holy Cross Church Holy Cross Church Debbie’s Cleaning Service Wexler’s Collectibles American Form Corporation Saks Consignment G CAP Construction Hillside Country Club Ledgemont Country Club Community & Teachers Credit Union David C. Zaluski, D.D.S. Dr. Wassouf D.D.S. Eager Family Dentistry Frank P. Casarella, DMD Lisa Daft DMD & Associates, PC Romani Orthodontics Groom & Style Bristol County Drones Greaves Electric James Tavares Electric Neal Bellavance Electric

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