June 2023 Seekonk Reporter

“Find

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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!

Looking for Students of Mrs. Baker for 1st grade at North School in Seekonk in the 1970s – 1990s

I am trying to find people who were students in my Mom Elaine Baker’s first grade class at North school in Seekonk from the early/mid 1970s to the mid 1990s as we are planning a BIG surprise for her.

Elaine is now 89, living in assisted living in Florida and battling cancer, which has been tough on her. Even with the heath battles she is still sharp as a tack. She loves, crosswords, trivia and knitting along with never missing a Red Sox or Patriots game. Recently I was able to find a number of her students and asked if they would please drop her a note or a card to lift her spirits during this challenging time. Some of them told me they remember her pulling their first loose tooth, and how good she was at doing it! Others remember her teaching them sign language, some remembered the guinea pig she had in her classroom.

One of her students Michelle Longbottom Lopes came up with the idea to take a group photo of her “kids” to send to her. Michelle and I are trying to find as many of her former students as possible to do a photo shoot in front of North School on Monday evening June 19th at 6:30 PM.

My Mom LOVED “her kids” (students) so much!! I believe she still has the file box where she kept the names of all of her former students, the year she had them, their birth date, as well as things like marriage and other types of stories/announcements from the newspaper. I KNOW that she will love receiving a photo of them now.

If you had Mrs. Baker for 1st grade at North School in Seekonk in the 1970s – 1990s and would like to join the photo shoot you can email me at janrandall@ community-autism-resources.com or Michelle at Shellanto3@gmail.com

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Rehoboth Cover: Cows roadside in Rehoboth. Photo by Lars Lambrecht

Seekonk Cover: Pictured on the cover are staff from Seekonk Library promoting the 2023 Summer Reading Challenge, “Find Your Voice”. Using the theme, the library is offering summer reading challenges for adults, teens and children. There will also be special programs and events throughout the summer. For details, see the press releases in this issue or visit seekonkpl.org

Elaine Baker in her teaching years

Class of 1984

The Rehoboth/Seekonk Re p o r t e r

P.O. Box 377

Rehoboth, MA 02769

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Is Anyone Listening?

On Monday, May 22, 2023, the Seekonk School Committee meeting had an agenda item to “Discuss the Superintendent Finalists”.

What started as an interesting meeting eventually turned into some very curious optics that raised some eyebrows. Well, mine at least.

Let’s dial this back a bit. A little over a week prior to the meeting I made an inquiry as to who was on the Superintendent Search Committee. I was directed to a link on the School District web page and while it was easy information found, the line up was as expected.

I am inserting a disclaimer here in that I am not passing judgement on the “work” of the Committee, or the finalists chosen. My judgement is based on the process of selection.

By piecing this information together, the following committee was put together by (2) voting members of the current School Committee.

Here’s the breakdown:

3 – Seekonk Teachers

2 – Sitting and voting member of the School Committee (the same 2-creating this group)

1 – Seekonk Assistant Superintendent

1 – Seekonk Principal

2 - District Employees

3 – Parent Representatives

1 – Town Employee

One of the Sitting and Voting members of the School Committee began by attempting to explain how the search committee was chosen. It was stated that “surveys were sent to as many people as they could.” The actual number sent was not provided. It was reported that 68 applications were received for the Parent Representative slots of which only 3 were chosen. Nine (9) slots were filled by School/District personnel.

Fast forward to meeting night. After listening to the opinions of the entire 5 member School Committee for a few hours, 2 members voiced their concerns. Instead of offering a solution or resolution to concerns, Sitting and Voting member #1 makes a motion to extend a conditional offer of employment to one candidate, her choice. The motion was immediately seconded by a different member. Discussion halted and the vote was cast. The motion carried 3-2 in favor of the choice of 2 Sitting and Voting members. The 2 descending voices were silenced. Keep in mind they only needed 1 more vote to hire “their” choice.

In summary, how fair is it for 2 sitting School Committee members to appoint themselves to the search committee only to pick “their” choice for the finalist and need only 1 more vote to get their way? To add insult to the process, 1 of those 2 voting members asked the others to reconsider their descending vote. Wonder why neither Member who inserted themselves on the Search Committee in the first place did not consider changing their votes? Why does the School Committee always “choose” the same people for special school committee assignments?

Why does the School Committee always insert themselves into school committee projects? Why does the School Committee not trust the judgement or opinions of ordinary

www.dutradisposal.com

towns people to carry out assignments or work on projects?

Also, curious to know “how” they can consider a vote at all when an offer of employment or potential offer of employment was not on the agenda?

Just like an onion made of layers. Peel back one layer at a time and the deeper you go, the worse it smells.

Optics, it is all about optics and the outcome. We have not learned anything from the Aitken School Expansion Project. But we keep waiting, some more patient than others.

Hope you enjoyed your Memorial Day festivities!!!

Congratulations to the Class of 2023 – Warriors 4-ever.

Doreen Taylor Seekonk

From the Rehoboth Food Pantry

My name is Bob Brawley and I have been the President of the Rehoboth Food Pantry over the past three years. I wanted to share a few thoughts about the Food Pantry and ensure our community knows about our valuable community resource. We are an emergency food pantry meaning we provide food to anyone in need. The Pantry is connected to Federal and State hunger fighting programs through the Greater Boston Food Bank. We get free and reduce price food through Greater Boston helping to keep our pantry stocked. Locally we accept food from food drives, local food drop-off sites in town, we gather food from local supermarkets and accept financial donations. Rehoboth has always been very generous, and the Pantry greatly appreciates your continued support in fighting hunger.

The pantry provides emergency supplemental food to any Rehoboth resident in need. Food is provided confidentially. The pantry is open every Thursday from 2:30 to 4:30. We are located behind the building at 55 Winthrop St. We also provide home delivery, call 508-493-1922, just leave a message. The Food Pantry also provides emergency heating and energy assistance. Again, just call the number above. If you are in need or know of any Rehoboth Resident in need, you can refer them to the Pantry through the info provided here, our website www.rehobothfoodpantryma.org, our Facebook page or any Rehoboth Food Pantry Board Member. The Food Pantry Board is made up of many Rehoboth citizens

who are part of many Rehoboth organizations. Scott and Odete Lacourse, Art and Deb Gareau, Liz Day, Paula Fernandes, Ron Larose, Angie Davis, Mike Sullivan-Silva, Lorraine Belcher and myself. No one should go hungry here in Rehoboth.

I also must recognize all our amazing volunteers through which the pantry operates and serves our community. Our volunteers collect food, drive trucks, sort food, stock shelves and do whatever is required to keep the Pantry ready to serve those requiring assistance. Many hands make light work and our pantry remained operational throughout the pandemic. If you would like to volunteer, you can find information on the website. Finally, thanks for your continued support and if you would like to donate, the Rehoboth Food Pantry is a registered 501c3 charity, our address is Rehoboth Food Pantry, 55 Wintrop St Unit 2, Rehoboth, MA 02769. Thanks.

Bob Brawley

Baby Turtles

We see them In the spring and fall. They hope they won’t Be seen at all. So tiny and so all alone. Small marching steps. They’re always home. It seems they know Which route to choose. Their marching orders So imbued.

I stop to watch. They’re not afraid. They’re all brave soldiers On parade.

Don Gardner Seekonk, MA

Thanks.

Bob Brawley

Personal Best Perseveres

To all of our loyal patients and friends, With heavy hearts we mourn the loss of our founder and friend, Chris Titcomb. Chris was both an extraordinary Physical Therapist and remarkable boss. His passing has left us all with deep sadness. With the spirit of Chris instilled in all of us, we will continue to operate Personal Best Therapy as it has always operated to serve the needs of this community and all of our patients. We hope that this will alleviate any concerns about the continued care that we will be offering into the future.

Personal Best Physical Therapy is here to stay.

We look forward to serving our patients with the same quality care that has been provided since opening the doors here in Rehoboth.

Thank you for your continued support. Sincerely, Personal Best Physical Therapy

Rehoboth Town News

From the Clerk

Hello All – I hope you had a most enjoyable Memorial Day. I would like to take a moment to pause and remember all the brave men and women, and their families, who have made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our nation. Thank you for protecting the freedoms that we enjoy today. I would also like to share my congratulations to the Procopio Family with the recent dedication

of the 2023 Rehoboth Memorial Day Parade and granite bench at the veteran’s gazebo on Redway Plain. It was nice to see Bev and Larry recognized for their endless years of dedicated service to the Town. Personally, I love the idea that Bev and Larry’s memorial bench will forever be overlooking Redway Plain, where Bev and Larry hosted the Harvest Block Party for twenty years. Thank you, Harvest Block Party members, Chuck, Bev and Larry Procopio, and the many town services and vendors who participated in the Block Party for 20 wonderful years! And most of all, thank you Bev and Larry for all you have done for the Town of Rehoboth!

The month of May was another busy month in the Town Clerk’s Office, Annual Town Meeting held, 35-Town Meeting vote certifications completed, Bylaw Amendments filed with the Attorney General’s Office, 2023 Census finalized and reports printed, Street Listings sent to printers, reminder letters sent out to delinquent dog owners, and business certificate renewals mailed.

Hello All – I hope you had a most enjoyable Memorial Day. I would like to take a moment to pause and remember all the brave men and women, and their families, who have made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our nation. Thank you for protecting the freedoms tha t we enjoy today. I would also like to share my congratulations to the Procopio Family with the recent dedication of the 2023 Rehoboth Memorial Day Parade and granite bench at the veteran’s gazebo on Redway Plain. It was nice to see Bev and Larry recognized for their endless years of dedicated service to the Town. Personally, I love the idea that Bev and Larry’s memorial bench will forever be overlooking Redway Plain, where Bev and Larry hosted the Harvest Block Party for twenty years. Thank you, Harvest Block Party members, Chuck, Bev and Larry Procopio, and the many town services and vendors who participated in the Block Party for 20 wonderful years! And most of all, thank you Bev and L arry for all you have done for the Town of Rehoboth!

The month of May was another busy month in the Town Clerk’s Office, Annual Town Meeting held, 35Town Meeting vote certifications completed, Bylaw Amendments filed with the Attorney General’s Office, 2023 Census finalized and reports printed, Street Listings sent to printers, reminder letters sent out to delinquent dog owners, and business certificate renewals mailed

On May 9, 2023 Rehoboth was able to hold our Annual Town Meeting at the Rehoboth Town Meeting Home in the Francis Farm Museum Building – 27 Francis Farm Road, Rehoboth, MA. 269 registered voters, plus a few observers, were seated in the climatecontrolled museum building. All 35 Articles were able to be voted on, with the meeting dissolved and adjourned by 10:15 PM. The Moderator, Bill Cute, began town meeting by ringing the “USS Rehoboth” bell during the opening ceremonies of Rehoboth’s Town Meeting. Rehoboth again utilized the Meridia Electronic EZ-Vote 5 Keypad voting devices (clickers) at town meeting, which expedited the hand count process significantly. I would like to thank Peter Babel from Meridia Interactive for being at Town Meeting to set up and demonstrate how to use the software along with programming the voting clickers for Kerrie, Jenn and I. Thank you also to election workers, Jenn Hose and Kerrie Perkins from the Town Clerk’s Office, Mike Viveiros and staff, Ambient Sound, Richard Barett and Selectman Solas for your help in making sure Town Meeting was set up and ran smoothly. Thank you also Kevin Chace and crew for advertising town meeting on the highway signs. Below please find a quick summary of all 35 votes taken at the May 9, 2023 Annual Town Meeting. As we have done for the last few Town Meetings the first nine articles were voted together as “Consent Agenda” article. Articles 2, 4 and 10-35 were voted individually:

On May 9, 2023 Rehoboth was able to hold our Annual Town Meeting at the Rehoboth Town Meeting Home in the Francis Farm Museum Building – 27 Francis Farm Road, Rehoboth, MA. 269 registered voters, plus a few observers, were seated in the climate-controlled museum building. All 35 Articles were able to be voted on, with the meeting dissolved and adjourned by 10:15 PM. The Moderator, Bill Cute, began town meeting by ringing the “USS Rehoboth” bell during the opening ceremonies of Rehoboth’s Town Meeting. Rehoboth again utilized the Meridia Electronic EZ-Vote 5 Keypad voting devices (clickers) at town meeting, which expedited the hand count process significantly. I would like to thank Peter Babel from Meridia Interactive for being at Town Meeting to set up and demonstrate how to use the software along with programming the voting clickers for Kerrie, Jenn and I. Thank you also to election workers, Jenn Hose and Kerrie Perkins from the Town Clerk’s Office, Mike Viveiros and staff, Ambient Sound, Richard Barett and Selectman Solas for your help in making sure Town Me eting was set up and ran smoothly. Thank you also Kevin Chace and crew for advertising town meeting on the highway signs Below please find a quick summary of all 35 votes taken at the May 9, 2023 Annual Town Meeting. As we have done for the last few Town Meetings the first nine articles were voted together as “Consent Agenda” article. Articles 2, 4 and 10-35 were voted individually:

Rehoboth May 9, 2023 Annual Town Meeting (ATM)

Francis Farm Community Complex - Museum Building

7:00 PM ~ 10:15 PM

(To refer to the 5-9-2023 ATM Warrant, please go to: https://www.rehobothma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif4911/f/uploads/rehoboth_may_9_2023_warrant_final.pdf)

Article Number

Article

Article

Article #11

Fiscal Year 2024 Town Budget

Recommendations from the Finance Committee – Acceptance of Report

Voted unanimously, as printed in the warrant to receive the report of the Rehoboth Board of Health

Voted unanimously, as amended*, to amend Chapter A, Town Meetings, Officers, Committees and Elections, Article 1, Calling of Town Meetings, Section 2, to the first Tuesday of June at the specific hour and location designated by the Board of Selectmen, and in accordance with the General Laws of Massachusetts, until every article and other business in the warrant has been duly considered and acted upon

Meridia Electronic EZ-Vote 5 Keypad Count:

*Majority Vote Received-Amendment #1Monday to Tuesday

YES = 229 NO = 9 TOTAL = 238

Amendment #2-removal of language in italics (last sentence in warrant). Approved via Majority Voice vote.

Voted by two-thirds vote*, to approve Article 11, as amended, to receive the report of the Finance Committee and to raise from Taxation the amount of $13,574,689, to transfer from the Cannabis Fund the amount of $128,291 and to transfer from Free Cash the amount of $10,995 for a total of $13,713,975 as described in the Report of the Finance Committee to defray the expenses of Town government and for the ensuing fiscal year and to make all appropriations therefore.

Meridia Electronic EZ-Vote 5 Keypad Count:

*2/3RDS VOTE RECEIVED:

YES = 215 NO = 18 TOTAL = 233

Voted by two-thirds* vote to table Article 12

Article #15

Fiscal Year 2024 Bristol County Agricultural High School Budget

Article #16

CPC Funds from the Undesignated Fund for Related Expenses of the Purchase of 30 Acres off of 165 Fairview Avenue (Part of Map 57, Lot 31)

Article #17

CPC Funds from the Undesignated Fund for Related Expenses of the Purchase of 14 Acres off of 44 Bliss Street, Lot 1

Article #18

Transfer $25,000 for the FY2025

Certification of Values

Voted unanimously to receive the report of the Committee and to raise from Taxation, the sum of $272,713 as described in the Report of the Finance Committee, to defray the expenses for Bristol County Agricultural High School for the ensuing fiscal year and to make all appropriations therefore.

Voted unanimously, to approve the appropriation of $225,000 from the Town’s “Undesignated Community Preservation Funds” , for the purchase of 30 acres, off 165 Fairview Avenue, (Part of Map 57, Lot 31).

Voted unanimously, to approve the appropriation of $125,000 from the Town’s “Undesignated Community Preservation Funds” , for the purchase of 14 acres off 44 Bliss Street, Lot 1, along with the costs associated with such a purchase, such acquisition will support preservation and passive recreational use, and, further to authorize the Town to convey an appropriate conservation restriction in such property.

Voted unanimously, to allow the Board of Assessors to transfer from Overlay Surplus the sum of $25,000.00 for the contracting of the FY2025 revaluing and certifying assessed valuation of the Town as mandated by the State of Massachusetts to comply with Proposition 2 ½.

Article #19 Voted unanimously, to approve an amendment to the agreement between the Town of Rehoboth and Bristol-

Article #12

Funding Collective Bargaining AgreementDispatchers

Article #13

Fiscal Year 2024 Dighton Rehoboth Regional School Budget

Article #14

Fiscal Year 2024 Bristol Plymouth Regional Technical High School Budget

Article #15

Fiscal Year 2024 Bristol County Agricultural High School Budget

Article #16

CPC Funds from the Undesignated Fund for Related Expenses of the Purchase of 30 Acres off of 165 Fairview Avenue (Part of Map 57, Lot 31)

Article #17

CPC Funds from the Undesignated Fund for Related Expenses of the Purchase of 14 Acres off of 44 Bliss Street, Lot 1

Article #18

Transfer $25,000 for the FY2025

Certification of Values

Meridia Electronic EZ-Vote 5 Keypad Count:

*2/3RDS VOTE RECEIVED:

YES = 198 NO = 36 TOTAL = 234

Voted unanimously to approve Article 13, as amended*, to receive the report of the finance committee, to raise from Taxation the sum of $20,910,342 and the sum of Free Cash of $323,335 for a total of $21,233,677 as described in the Report of the Finance Committee, to pay the assessments of the Dighton/Rehoboth Regional School System, for the ensuing fiscal year and to make all appropriations therefore.

*Finance Committee Amended at Town Meeting to $21,233,677 (Taxation $20,910,342; Free Cash $323,335) as amended in the above motion.

Voted by majority vote to receive the report of the Finance Committee, and to raise from Taxation, the sum of $1,436,167 as described in the Report of the Finance Committee, to defray the expenses of Bristol Plymouth Regional Technical High School for the ensuing fiscal year and to make all appropriations therefore

Voted unanimously to receive the report of the Finance Committee and to raise from Taxation, the sum of $272,713 as described in the Report of the Finance Committee, to defray the expenses for Bristol County Agricultural High School for the ensuing fiscal year and to make all appropriations therefore.

Voted unanimously, to approve the appropriation of $225,000 from the Town’s “Undesignated Community Preservation Funds” , for the purchase of 30 acres, off 165 Fairview Avenue, (Part of Map 57, Lot 31).

Voted unanimously, to approve the appropriation of $125,000 from the Town’s “Undesignated Community Preservation Funds” , for the purchase of 14 acres off 44 Bliss Street, Lot 1, along with the costs associated with such a purchase, such acquisition will support preservation and passive recreational use, and, further to authorize the Town to convey an appropriate conservation restriction in such property.

Voted unanimously, to allow the Board of Assessors to transfer from Overlay Surplus the sum of $25,000.00 for the contracting of the FY2025 revaluing and certifying assessed valuation of the Town as mandated by the State of Massachusetts to comply with Proposition 2 ½.

Article #19 Voted unanimously, to approve an amendment to the agreement between the Town of Rehoboth and Bristol-

Rehoboth Nurse’s Notes

Good grief, how can it be June already! I hope you all had a lovely Memorial Day and were able to enjoy the incredible Memorial Day Parade!

We continue to be very busy here in the Public Health Nurses’ office, with infectious disease monitoring, home wellness check, home vaccinations, educational presentations, the podiatry clinic and the health screening clinics held on Mondays and Wednesdays from 11a-1p. (The next podiatry clinic will be July 13th. Please call 508-962-4558 for an appointment) We will be suspending the Caregiver and Bereavement support groups until September. However, in the meantime, please call me if you need help with either issue. I’d be glad to help any way I can.

As you know, we received notification that as of May 11th, 2023, the pandemic is considered to be over. And so, the Senior Center will be hosting an Un-Masquerading Ball on June 13th. Details are in the Senior Center notes further on in the Reporter. I know so many are delighted to get rid of those annoying masks, but remember if you have concerns for your health, don’t be afraid to continue wearing your mask when out in public or large crowds.

I will be hosting a series on educational programs, the first of which was on Wednesday, May 24th. The topic was Nutrition, Diet and Exercise for Seniors, and was well attended and interactive. I’d like to thanks Kim Ciociola sincerely for her help with the presentation. The next presentation will be on June 7th from 11a-1145a at the Senior Center, 27 Francis Farm Rd., and the topic will be Managing Chronic Diseases. The presentation will be followed by a simple lunch at 12n ($3). Please call us to register: 508-962-4558.

In the spirit of fostering multigenerational relationships, (a topic close to my heart) I am delighted to be a part of a team organizing a multi-generational luncheon on June 5th. For this year our guests to the event are a 4th grade class from Beckwith Middle School, who will meet a number of our seniors for lunch and fun!

I know I mentioned it last month, but I think it deserves another mention. Please, as children finish up the school year and head out to a summer of freedom and fun, be aware of the kiddos when they are out and about riding their bikes, skate boarding, or any other activity occurring on our roads. Also remind our kiddos to keep their eyes and ears open…no ear buds when you are on the road!

Lastly, continue to keep an eye out for ticks and mosquitos. Make sure to empty out any standing water that has gathered in containers in you gardens and yards, don’t give those pesky mosquitos a mansion to procreate in!

Until next time, enjoy the good weather, and stay safe, be kind, be healthy!

Sincerely,

Geri

Rehoboth Land Trust News

Invasive Plant Identification Workshop

Would you like to feel more confident identifying invasive plants on your property?

On June 17, 2023 from 9-11 am, join RLT President, Carol Entin on a free walk to meet your foes up close and personal! We will meet at Carol’s property where you will learn the characteristics required to identify mugwort, Japanese hops, multiflora rose, Oriental bittersweet, black swallowwort, periwinkle, and more! Learn about tools to make removal easier and resources to help you when you go home. In addition, learn about native plants that are beneficial to wildlife as we botanize on 9 acres of field, forest, and wetlands. To register, email president@rehobothlandtrust.net Once you are registered, you will receive directions to the property and parking instructions. Wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for tick and insect exposure. Limited class size of 10. Questions? Call Carol Entin at 508-415-6065.

The State of the Palmer River

Looking at our river from the sky or from one of the scenic overlooks gives many of us a sense of place and a feeling of relaxation. It is the centerpiece of our town and provided the Sowams with everything they needed for survival. They taught the English colonists how to survive the first winter here and now we are a link in the chain of the river’s long and rich past.

Historically it is one of three rivers on the Eastern Seaboard suitable for shad and herring fish. Unfortunately, there are hardly any in the Palmer River nowadays. In 2018 the MA Division of Marine Fisheries presented a habitat assessment of the Shad Factory Pond, which stated the water quality does not meet criteria for spawning herring or shad based upon low dissolved oxygen levels, poor water clarity and high nutrient levels, to the Ground Water and Conservation Commissions. The Friends of the Palmer River will be working with them over the next year on habitat restoration in the estuary waters below the dam to try and attract these local natives, often compared to salmon, back into the river. Please join us if you’re interested!

The town recently received monies paid in reparation for pollution to the tune of $80, 000 (Sun Chronicle). Leadership must be held accountable for investing the money into the river in a meaningful way like protecting its buffer zone and wetlands, water quality testing and monitoring or preventing landscaping companies from filling their trucks up at the many “Water Supply” signs along the river crossings.

Dr. Gian Calandrelli

The fourth graders at Palmer River Elementary have been wading into the tributaries of the river catching macroinvertebrates to determine the health of the water this spring. We found some of the “sensitive” bugs that indicate healthy water! We also found some “tolerant” bugs like leeches that can thrive with very little dissolved oxygen in the water. The Friends have been testing the water in different sections of the river with varied results. We need more consistent monitoring so that we know which parts of the river are unhealthy and can look into the cause. The town has the resources now with the reparations money to do this work.

There was a fire at our house a couple of months ago and the fire department’s response was quick and effective! They need water to combat fires. As drought becomes more prevalent, there are concerns about water that we must all consider. We are not accustomed to dry and dangerous fire conditions…Protecting the river will ensure the fire department has the water it needs to keep us safe. Thank you RFD for your hard work and protection!

Overall our river has some areas with a healthy natural buffer remaining, which means the land adjacent to the river is not developed with agriculture, homes or golf courses. If you’ve looked at the Runnins river, you can see what a river with less buffer looks like. Taking proactive measures NOW to ensure that there will be water HERE for our children’s children is something we need to bring to the forefront of our town’s plans for the future! No water, no life.

Jean M Kusiak

Real Estate Brokerage

We would like to remember those who are no longer with us. Our founder, Henry C. Sidok Sr. and owner, Cynthia Saleeba. Their leadership and dedication to supporting our customers has been an integral part of H&C reaching this milestone.

The H&C Family would like to thank all of our customers for their business over the past 50 years. We truly appreciate you and look forward to serving your security and fire alarm needs for many years to come.

Cynthia Saleeba & Henry C. Sidok Sr.

~Henry C. Sidok Jr and Jason H. Sidok

134 Central Ave.Seekonk, MA 508-399-7171 LandryLiquors.com

Prices Good Thru June 30th

$29.99

$24.99 $46.99 $29.99

Rehoboth Memorial Day Parade One of the Largest Rehoboth Memorial Day Parades for the Residents Along the Parade Route to Enjoy!

As the Director of Rehoboth’s Veteran Services and the Adjutant for the Rehoboth’s American Legion post 302, I would like to thank everyone who participated in this year’s Rehoboth Memorial Day Parade and all the supporting residents of Rehoboth for coming out to see the Memorial Day Parade on a beautiful sunny day.

The Parade started at 10:15 AM near the C.O.A. & American Legion on Bay State Road and travel through the village following the Red White and Blue Stripped lines in the middle of the road along with 68 American Flags hanging off the utility poles along the entire parade route and ended up at the Veterans’ Memorial Gazebo, Redway Plain.

The Memorial Day Ceremony commence at 11:30 AM followed by a dedication to Larry Procoppio and for all our Fallen Comrades who’ve gave the ultimate sacrifice with a ceremony ending at noon with the raising of the American Flag from half staff to full staff.

(Photos taken by Bonnie Johnson & Chrissy McKearney)

Rock Alpaca farm, Chase farm, Wendy from Ashberry farms with the fallen soldier horse, Veterans van, Bristol County Savings Bank antique car, Sheila Kramer’s antique Mustang, Ken Abrams antique car, Earl Dias’s antique car, Antique Fire Truck sponsoring “friends of the Palmer river”, the board of selectman of Rehoboth, Chuck Procoppio “Guest Speaker” and the Director of Veteran Services’ John “Jake” Kramer.

Thank you Rehoboth and I’ll see you year and please, remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for us to have enjoyed this past Memorial Day weekend.

SEE PHOTOS ON PAGE 68...

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

The Blizzard of Giving,

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

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

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

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

This information can be emailed to rehobothblizzard@gmail.com

Or mailed to Colleen McBride, 35 Pond Street, Rehoboth, MA 02769

The Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Inc. is committed to serving the community by providing Christmas gifts, holiday support, and special occasion needs to Rehoboth residents who are facing challenging times in their lives. Donations can be made out to “Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Inc.” and mailed to: Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Attn: Cathy Edington, 61 Reservoir Ave., Rehoboth, MA 02769

Rehoboth Animal Shelter News

The Rehoboth Animal Shelter is the temporary home of both dogs and cats right now. Sinatra is an active young adult husky who loves to play. He would do well with a fenced yard and someone with time for his training. Brandy is a female mastiff- Staffordshire mix, very enthusiastic about people but not so fond of other dogs. She is working on her leash skills.

More information about our adoptable pets is online at Petfinder. You can also reach us by phone for information or to report a lost or found pet. Call 508-252-5421, ext. 1326, and leave a message.

We will be welcoming 13 classrooms back to spend a day in the past at the school this spring. There are many days open this

Sinatra

Brandy

Rehoboth First Responders Honored

By Joe Siegel

The town’s paramedics, firefighters, and police officers were honored for their work in saving the life of a town resident. The ceremony was held at a Board of Selectmen meeting last month.

Selectmen Chairman Skip Vadnais read a proclamation in honor of Emergency Medical Services Week.

Bernie Beauchemin collapsed while jogging on February 5 and went into cardiac arrest. George Lopes was on his way home from work that day when he found Beauchemin. Lopes called 911 and described the situation to the responding dispatcher.

“Thanks to (Lopes) immediate response, (Beauchmein) received immediate, proper and professional care from the responding medical team,” said Bob Schriever from the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Association.

Schriever presented Lopes with a Certificate of Heroism for helping to save Beauchemin’s life.

Schriever is a former college football official and has worked for the NFL’s New England Patriots as a member of the sideline crew for 10 years. On September 14, 2002, Bob collapsed in sudden cardiac arrest while officiating a high school football game. He was dead for 2.5 minutes.

The visiting team’s head athletic trainer had apologized to Schriever for arriving late to the game because he had stopped to pick up a newly acquired automated external defibrillator (AED) at his school. Schriever was revived with the AED only 15 minutes into the second half of the game.

Automated external defibrillators are portable, life-saving devices designed to treat people experiencing sudden cardiac arrest, a medical condition in which the heart stops beating suddenly and unexpectedly. The combination of CPR and early defibrillation is effective in saving lives when used in the first few minutes following a collapse from sudden cardiac arrest, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Schriever formed the New England chapter of SCAA with some friends.

SCAA has certified 70,000 high school students in lifesaving techniques, Schriever noted.

For more information, visit https://stopcardiacarrest.org.

Rehoboth Selectmen Address Concerns

By Joe Siegel

The Rehoboth Board of Selectmen is ready to address residents’ concerns. Chairman Skip Vadnais said residents should call the Selectmen’s office at Town Hall and leave their name, address, phone number, and “very concisely state what the problem is and I will assign a selectman depending on what your complaint is to respond to you.”

Vadnais noted the Open Public Session at the board’s weekly meetings has been eliminated. “This is your access to us to have issues resolved,” Vadnais explained.

Rehoboth First Responders

“I’m happy working under that system,” Selectman Lenny Mills said. “Working under that directive is very helpful for my liaison assignments.”

Rehoboth Approves Budget, Rejects Ban on ‘Nips’

By Joe Siegel

Voters approved a $36 million budget at a town meeting last month. The total town government budget is $13, 783, 975. This year’s budget represents a 9.45 percent increase over FY23.

The total education budget is $22, 967,952. $21, 259, 072 is for the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District. That figure represents an increase of 4.4 percent over last year. $1.4 million is for Bristol/Plymouth Vocational Technical School, and $272, 000 is for Bristol County Agricultural High School.

A proposed ban on the sale of bottles of alcohol which are 100 ml or less, known as ‘nips’, was defeated with 83 in favor and 155 opposed. Jennifer LeComte of Keep Rehoboth Beautiful said banning the ‘nips’ would protect the environment and discourage drunk driving. Opponents, including the owners of liquor stores in town, said they would lose customers to establishments in neighboring communities.

A new bylaw regarding helicopter operations permits, was approved with 164 voting in favor and 82 in opposition. Tish Vadnais, a member of the town’s Agricultural Commission, said the bylaw would protect farms and livestock. Vadnais noted there had been “too many close calls” with helicopters landing too close to horse stables and farms. Selectman Michael Deignan was opposed to the bylaw, stating the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had the authority to ban helicopter landings, not the town of Rehoboth. Resident Alana Greene explained the FAA hadn’t been able to do anything about the helicopters. “We’re at risk of our horses bolting,” Greene said, adding animals were also at risk of “grave bodily harm.”

A bylaw which was to adopt a Wetland Protection Zone was tabled by a vote of 162 in favor and 64 in opposition. Article 30 read in part: “To approve a 35-feet Preservation Zone area around wetlands. This article is not designed to limit development but, to give additional protections to our wetland resources helping to limit the impacts of fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides and sunlight encroachment drying out the wetlands.” Selectmen Chair Skip Vadnais said the bylaw was “problematic” because it left no room for exemptions.

Other articles which were approved:

• 90 Pond Street Solar PILOT Agreement - authorizes the Board of Selectmen to enter into a “Payment in Lieu of Taxes” Agreement with REHOBOTH RENEWABLES, LLC for a period of up to 20 years for the proposed construction and operation of a Large-Scale Ground Mounted Solar Photovoltaic Installation.

• An amendment to the Bristol-Plymouth Regional Vocational School Agreement to include the addition of the Town of Freetown as a new member to the District.

• The appropriation of $125,000 for security cameras and door access controls for Beckwith Middle School and Palmer River School.

• Street acceptances of Francelina Way, Veader Farm Road, and Layla’s Way.

• A sum of funds from the Historic Preservation Reserve of the Community Preservation Act (CPA) for the moving and restoration of Rehoboth Historical Commission’s three Farm Museum Buildings at Francis Farm to a new location at the complex in order to provide better parking for the Senior Center.

• The expenditure of $225,000 for the purchase of 30 acres, off 165 Fairview Avenue, to support preservation and passive recreational use, and to authorize the Town to convey an appropriate conservation restriction in such property. Funds will be drawn from the Community Preservation Committee undesignated funds.

Rehoboth to Codify Bylaws

By Joe Siegel

Rehoboth will be codifying its town bylaws. The Board of Selectmen approved a contract with General Code for $10,000. The company, based in Rochester, New York, will make the bylaws available on the town website. The process will be completed before the end of 2024.

Town Clerk Laura Schwall said the bylaws will have to reviewed first and then approved at town meeting. “Right now, our bylaws are frustrating to search for something,” Schwall noted.

“It’s the role of government to make sure that these documents are accessible,” said Zachary Dumont of General Code.

Selectmen did not want to make any changes to the bylaws, even to correct minor errors such as typos. “It’s not professional,” Schwall said to Chairman Skip Vadnais.

“It might not be professional but it’s not illegal when you’re trying to bring this into something that it needn’t be,” Vadnais replied.

Schwall provided a link to the town of Swansea’s bylaws. Rehoboth’s bylaws will have a similar appearance: https://ecode360. c135 municipalities in Massachusetts have General Code’s Codification of their Bylaws, including Mansfield, Plainville, Fall River, Easton, Fairhaven, and Taunton.

New School for Dighton?

By Joe Siegel

Dighton-Rehoboth Regional Schools Superintendent Bill Runey, School Committee Chair Aaron Morse, and Dighton Board of Selectmen Chair Peter Caron have announced that the Dighton Rehoboth Regional School District has submitted a Statement of Interest (SOI) to the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) to address overcrowding and outdated facilities at Dighton Elementary School (DES).

“Although still very preliminary, we are excited to take this important first step to address the needs of our students and community,” Runey said. “A renovated or rebuilt DES would provide our students with a modern, safe, and secure learning environment, and would be a tremendous asset to the community as a whole.”

Constructed in 1953, DES has experienced overcrowding and lacks updated safety and security equipment. Runey explained DES no longer provides a 21st Century learning environment to address the needs of all students in the realms of academics and socialemotional needs. Submitting the SOI is the first step in a process that could lead to the rebuilding or renovation of DES.

The MSBA will review the SOI and consider the District for eligibility to pursue funding for a feasibility study. The feasibility study will explore options for addressing the overcrowding and updating the facilities at DES. A determination from the MSBA will not come until December.

“Population projections show that this problem will only get worse in the future,” Morse noted. “It’s imperative that the District addresses these issues, and we hope the MSBA gives us fair consideration.”

Caron added, “We look forward to working with the MSBA and the Dighton Rehoboth Regional School District to explore options for DES. This is an important investment in our community, and we are committed to ensuring that our students have access to the best possible learning environment.”

Runey Looks Ahead

By Joe Siegel

Dighton-Rehoboth School Superintendent Bill Runey is looking ahead to next year’s budget cycle with some concern. Last April, Rehoboth voters rejected a temporary tax increase to pay for the town’s share of the construction costs for the new Bristol/Plymouth Regional Technical School.

The $305 million building project was approved in March 2022. Although the project was rejected in Rehoboth, there were enough votes for passage in the member communities which included Berkley, Bridgewater, Dighton, Middleborough, Raynham, and Taunton.

Selectman Michael Deignan explained the town would have to pay between $550,000 and $600,000 annually. Funds for the school district will be impacted.

“The assessments for both of our towns could potentially be reduced,” Runey told the Reporter. In addition, the district will be losing ESSER funding at the end of 2024.

“A lot of the money that we’ve relied on the past couple of years is going to dry up as well,” Runey continued. “I’m extremely concerned about the FY’2025 budget. I hope both towns consider putting on a debt exclusion vote (for the 2024 town meetings).”

Runey also announced enhanced security measures for the district’s schools. $125,000 was approved at the May 9 town meeting for security upgrades at Beckwith Middle School and Palmer River Elementary School.

“We’ve also applied for a $400,000 grant at the federal level that would cover all five of our buildings and we also applied for a $150,000 grant at the state level that would cover a few of the buildings.”

Many school districts around the country have dealt with criticism from parents regarding library books containing adult themes, particularly about gender identity and sexual orientation.

“Our school committee has been very proactive about making sure that all of our district policies are current and relevant,” Runey noted. “(School committee member) Katie Ferreira-Aubin is chair of the policy subcommittee and she and her subcommittee have worked really hard this year on several policies and one of them is about objections to library materials.”

Runey also addressed what the district is doing to help students who are dealing with mental health issues.

“The time away from school was extremely detrimental for them,” Runey said. “It is a very tangible problem not only for us but for schools around the country.”

The district created the position of Social Emotional Learning Coordinator and is implementing curriculum in the schools to help students with social and emotional issues.

An upcoming forum at the high school will provide parents with guidance on how to act with children experiencing these types of problems. “We are being proactive about it,” Runey added. “We want to continue to do more.”

D-R High School Principal Resigns

By Joe Siegel

Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School Principal Gail DeCecco announced she is leaving her job, just a week after Amy Younger, the Principal of Dighton Middle School, tendered her resignation.

In a May 12 letter to Superintendent Bill Runey, DeCecco wrote she was resigning effective July 12.

“I have enjoyed working with the students, faculty, and staff at this school, and it is with mixed emotions that I submit my resignation. I want to express my gratitude to the School Committee, faculty, staff, students, and parents for their support and guidance during my tenure as an administrator at DRRHS. Their trust and confidence in my abilities have been greatly appreciated, and it has been a privilege to serve in this community.”

“It is a loss for our community as she has accomplished a great deal in just one year at the helm,” Runey told the Reporter. “She is leaving DR a better place than she found it.”

“After previous years of threats and violence directed at (the high school), (the students) felt safe this year with Mrs. DeCecco as their principal,” said a parent at the May 23 school committee meeting.

Runey said the position has been posted and the administration is in the process of assembling a Screening Committee.

“I am confident we can find someone willing to make a long-term commitment to the students, staff, and families by being a champion of all of the great things happening here while also displaying the strength to help us grow through our weaknesses,” Runey added.

Rehoboth Residents Upset Over Playground Removal

By Joe Siegel

Town residents have expressed their frustration over the removal of the playground behind the old Anawan School building on Bay State Road.

Selectman Rob Johnson said Monday the town no longer owns the land. The property and the adjacent parcel, which was the site of the Council on Aging until it burned down in 2020, is now owned by the state Housing Authority.

Johnson noted the playground equipment has aged so it would make more sense to build a new one instead of moving everything over to Francis Farm.

“The old playground was (maintained) by the Forestry Department through funding raised during the construction and that money has also run out,” Johnson noted. “It’s reached its age.”

Paul Jacques, chairman of the Housing Authority, has proposed constructing 30 units of senior housing. The group is working with the Women’s Development Corporation, the Historical Commission, and the Community Preservation Committee (CPC) on the project.

No Trespassing signs and protective fencing were put up around the Anawan School in June 2021 after William McDonough, the town’s Building Commissioner, said the building at 53 Bay State Road was “unsafe.”

The Seekonk Scene

From the Clerk

Happy June ~ Did you know that on June 6, 1872 Susan B. Anthony was arrested, tried and sentenced to pay $100, which she refused, for voting in a presidential election. She was motivated to do this after the 15th Amendment had been passed granting voting rights to African American males. After she died in 1906, it took five decades to get the Democratic and Republican parties to endorse women’s right to vote. Finally in 1920, the 19th Amendment to the Constitution was ratified, allowing women the right to vote.

A motion was made on Town Meeting floor that the Town appropriate the sum of $1,393,123 to defray charges and expenses of operating the Sanitation Enterprise Fund for Fiscal Year 2024 for the purpose and amount set forth in Schedule K in the column titled Board of Selectmen Recommended Budget 2024: The sum of $1,393,123 to be provided from revenues of the Sanitation Enterprise Fund.

Action on the motion: Motion passed (147Y,17N)

Florice Craig

Also, on June 30, 1971 the 26th Amendment to the Constitution was enacted, granting American citizens 18 years or older the right to vote in all federal, state and local elections.

Annual Spring Town Meeting News

May 8, 2023 Seekonk held its Spring Town Meeting and as you know it is was an important meeting as it dealt with our town budget. Below is an outlined report of the meeting and votes.

• Town Clerk called the meeting to order with a quorum of 75 registered voters at 7:00PM.

• Town Moderator made a motion to allow non-residents to speak at the meeting.

• Passed unanimously.

• Town Moderator made a motion to allow him to declare a 2/3 vote on articles requiring that vote. Passed unanimously.

• Town Moderator made a motion to allow the Town Moderator to proceed with all articles, even those that affect him personally. Passed unanimously.

Article 1 - To receive Town Officers or Committees reports. A committee report was given by Dan Tavares for the South End Fire Station. Passed unanimously.

Article 2- Fiscal Year 2024 Budget -Town Administrator presented the FY24 Budget.

A motion was made on Town Meeting floor that Town Meeting amend the Fiscal 2024 line-item under Fin. Comm. Recommended Budget C - Public Safety - Line 39 from $4,791,509 to 4,871,509. And amend the Fiscal 2024 line-item under Fin. Comm. Recommended Budget D-Education- Line 55 from $31,785,453 to $31,705,453.

Action on the motion: Motion failed (55Y, 147N)

A motion was made on Town Meeting floor that the Town appropriate the sum of $67,801,622 to defray charges and expenses of the Town for Fiscal year 2024 for the purposes and amounts set forth in Budget Schedules A through J in column titled Board of Selectmen Budget 2024:

• The sum of $51,901,613 to be raised by taxation within the levy limit under proposition 2½;

• The sum of $450,000 to be transferred from the Overlay Surplus

• The sum of $1,300,000 to be transferred from Ambulance Fees;

• The sum of $52,162 to be transferred from the Sanitation Enterprise Fund;

• The sum of $9,417 to be transferred from Septic Payback

• Action on the motion: Motion passed (168Y, 28N)

Article 3 – To see if the Town will vote to fix the salary and compensation for the following elected and appointed officials of the Town as provided by GL c 41, s108 for their services for the fiscal year commencing July 1, 2023 as follows, provided that any part-time elected official may waive receipt of compensation, or take any other action relative thereto:

• Board of Selectmen, Chairperson $2,400

• Board of Selectmen, Member $2,100

• School Committee, Chairman $1,400

• School Committee, Member $1,000

• Board of Assessor, Chairperson $3,139

• Board of Assessor, Member $2,789

• Planning Board Chairperson $2,100

• Planning Board Member $1,900

• Zoning Board of Appeals, Chairperson $531

• Zoning Board of Appeals, Member $374

MULTIPLE DISTRICT 33 WE ARE LOOKING FOR YOU!!!!

TO HOST OUR EXCHANGE STUDENTS VISITING MASSACHUSETTS. We need your help JULY 20-29, 2023.

Host Families do not need to be Lions!!! Maybe you have relatives, friends, or neighbors who would like to have a student from 14 different countries. (Brazil, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Lithuania, Netherlands, Poland, Slovakia, Spain, and Turkey.)

We have 13 boys and 8 girls.

(Age ranges from 16-20)

Some of these students have Host Families!!!

We are looking for volunteers to host one or two of these students. This can be an enriching experience for all !!!! You will need to complete a Host Family Application and also get a CORI Check which will be provided by the YCE Committee.

Any questions, please contact the following:

District A- Andrew Keane: andrwkn@gmail.com

District N- Katie Sirois: magoo2763@aol.com

Jesse Armell, Membership Chair

District K- Bill Donnellan: wmpd8@aol.com or Anthony Baliola: abaliola@yahoo.com

South Attleboro Lions Club

southattleborolions.org

District S- Jesse Armell: jarmell@aol.com

508-851-0169

A motion was made on Town Meeting floor that the Town Meeting amend the salary/compensation for the elected officials of the Board of Selectmen. To increase from Free Cash; Chairman of BOS $12,000 and Members of BOS $10,000 for their services for fiscal year commencing July 1, 2023.

Action on the Motion: Motion failed (18Y, 173N)

A motion was made that the Town vote to fix the salary and compensation for the elected and appointed officials of the Town set forth in the warrant under Article 3, as provided by G.L. c. 41, s. 108 for their services for the fiscal year commencing July 1, 2023, provided that any part-time elected official may waive receipt of compensation.

Action on the motion: Motion passed (142Y 22N)

Article 4 - A motion was made that the Town vote to transfer and appropriate $204,230.59 from Free Cash as set forth in the warrant under Article 4 for the purposes and in the amounts specified, including all incidental and related expenses, to authorize appropriate Town officials to enter into lease purchase agreements or other contracts for more than three years for such purposes, and to take such other action as is needed to carry out this vote.

Action on the motion: Motion passed (144Y, 14N)

Article 5 - A motion was made to appropriate the sum of $55,217.66 from the Ambulance Receipts for the purchase of two (2) LUCAS Machines, or equivalent machines, for the Fire Department.

Action on the motion: Motion passed (159Y, 6N).

Article 6 – To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from Free Cash or available funds in the treasury, or transfer from designated funds that have been reserved for appropriation in the sum of $100,000 to fund a feasibility study on the existing library building, or take any other action relative thereto.

A motion was made on Town Meeting floor to change the wording of Article 6 to say: That the Town vote to appropriate from Free Cash the sum of $100,000 to fund a cost analysis study for the renovation and repair of the existing library building under the direction of the Board of Selectmen.

Action on the motion: Motion passed (102Y, 80N)

A motion was made that the Town vote on Article 6 as amended.

Action on the motion: Motion passed (116Y, 52N)

Article 7- To see if the Town of Seekonk will vote to act on the report of the Community Preservation Committee on the Fiscal Year 2024 Community Preservation Budget and to appropriate from the Community Preservation Fund, pursuant to G.L. c. 44B, § 6, a sum of money to meet the administrative expenses and all other necessary and proper expenses of the Community Preservation Committee for Fiscal Year 2024; and to reserve for later appropriation monies from the Community Preservation annual revenues or available funds in the amounts recommended by the Community Preservation Committee for open space, historic resources and community housing purposes, as well as a sum of money to be placed in the Fiscal Year 2024 budgeted reserve for general Community Preservation Act purposes, with each item to be considered a separate appropriation, as outlined in the motion.

A motion was made that the Town vote to appropriate from the Community Preservation Fund FY 2024 estimated annual revenues the sum of $34,687 for administrative expenses of the Community Preservation Act Committee for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024; and further to reserve for future appropriation the following sums recommended by the Community Preservation Committee, with each item to be considered a separate reservation.

• Historic Resources Reserve $69,373

• Community Housing Reserve $69,373

• Open Space Reserve $69,373

• FY 2024 Budgeted Reserve $450,928

Action on the motion: Motion passed (134Y, 21N)

Article 8 – A motion was made to authorize the Board of Selectmen to dispose of surplus property or material, exclusive of buildings and land but including compost no longer needed by town.

Action on the motion: Motion passed (146Y, 9N)

Article 9 – A motion was made that the Town vote to transfer the sum $30,117.06 from Free Cash to FY2023 Town Meeting Operating Budget Line Item #69 (snow & Ice Expense).

Action on the motion: Motion passed (128Y, 13N)

Article 10 – A motion was made that the Town authorize the Board of Selectmen to appoint a Medeiros Farm Committee consisting of seven members for the purpose of overseeing the Medeiros Farm project at Elm Street and Lincoln Street, under the direction of the Board of Selectmen, to include but not be limited to, planning and design, cost estimates and oversight of expenditures, with said committee to be composed of one member from each of the following: Community Preservation Committee, Historic Commission, Conservation Commission, Parks & Recreation Committee, Planning Board, Board of Selectmen appointee, Member of the Medeiros family; or take any other action relative thereto.

Action on the motion: Motion passed (135Y, 13N)

Article 11– A motion was made that the Town appropriate $150,000 from the Community Preservation Fund Undesignated Reserve for the Medeiros Farm Committee, under the direction of the Board of Selectmen, to seek, hire, and direct a consultant to develop a master plan for the Medeiros Farm project at Elm Street and Lincoln Street, or take any other action relative thereto.

Action on the motion: Motion passed (139Y, 15N)

Article 12– A motion was made that the Town appropriate from the Stabilization Fund the sum of $143,700.00 to fund the

cost elements of the first year of a collective bargaining agreement and the sum of $93,400.00 to fund the cost elements of the second year of a collective bargaining agreement between the Town and the International Association of Firefighters, Local 1931, for a term beginning July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2025.

Action on the motion: Motion passed (137Y, 18N)

Article 13 – A motion was made that the Town appropriate from the Stabilization Fund the sum of $5,000 to fund the cost elements of the first year of a collective bargaining agreement and the sum of $24,000 to fund the cost elements of the second year of a collective bargaining agreement between the Town and the Seekonk Communications and Clerical Union, for a term beginning July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2025.

Action on the motion: Motion passed (139Y, 11N)

Article 14 –To see if the Town will vote to acquire, by gift, purchase, eminent domain or otherwise, six (6) parcels of land in Seekonk, located at 34 Hammond Street (Map 10, Lot 305); 0 Hammond Street (Map 10, Lot 306); 291 Chestnut Street (Map 10, Lot 307); 297 Chestnut Street (Map 10, Lot 308); 303 Chestnut Street (Map 10, Lot 309) and 0 Chestnut Street (Map 10, Lot 310), containing 6.46 acres, more or less, with any improvements thereon; and to appropriate and transfer from the Community Preservation Budgeted Reserve Fund the amount of $560,000 for the purchase of said property; and to authorize the Board of Selectmen to take any and all actions to carry out the purposes of this article, including the execution of any and all documents related thereto.

A motion was made on Town Meeting floor to indefinitely postpone Article 14.

Action on the motion: Motion passed (85Y, 62N)

Motion was made to dissolve meeting at 10:43PM. Passed unanimously.

The entire minutes for this meeting can be found on the Town web-site under the Town Clerk’s page.

I would like to thank all the people who came out to support our Town Meeting as well as the people behind the scenes who make everything run smoothly.

Other Town News

June 2 - the High School seniors will be graduating. Congratulations and best of luck to you all in your future endeavors.

Congratulations to the Senior Center they have been open three years this month. Their programs and the number of people utilizing this wonderful place grow every year.

As of June 1, dog license renewals are past due. There will be a $20.00 late fee per dog imposed on license renewals. The license fees are $10.00 for spayed or neutered dogs. $20.00 for un-spayed or un-neutered dogs. If you are late renewing, please remember to add $20.00 per dog to the above fees.

We are still updating census data and will be sending out post cards to residents who did not remember to answer the census this winter. If you receive this post card, PLEASE mail it back so we can update your census information. Failure to respond to census mailings for two consecutive years will result in the removal from the active voting list and may result in removal from the voter registration rolls per MGL Ch. 51 4c.

2024 will be a busy year for elections so make sure you are up to date with all your voter registration information. Also, if you are interested in becoming a poll-worker please email this office: fcraig@seekonk-ma.gov.

Have a wonderful month.

Mary C. Wilson Award Honors the Medeiros Family

The family of the late Anthony Medeiros received the prestigious annual Mary C. Wilson Commmunity Conservation Award for their significant contributions to conservation in Seekonk. Announced at the Annual Meeting of the Seekonk Land Trust on May 9, the award was accepted on Anthony’s behalf by Paul Medeiros’ wife Connie and their great-grandson, Kason Gossic, as Kason’s father, Chris Gossic, watched.

The Medeiros family worked with the Town, former Conservation Agent Jennifer Miller and the town’s Community Preservation

Committee to allow the purchase of 40 acres of this historic chicken farm on Lincoln and Elm Streets where Anthony had lived. According to Tom Webb, President of the SLCT, the land will be used to provide “a variety of activities from historic preservation, to active recreation as playing fields for teams and practices, to open space for hiking trails in the woods”. Webb noted that at Town Meeting on May 8, Seekonk citizens overwhelmingly voted to set up a planning committee for the Medeiros property, to provide $150,000 in CPA funds to support the committee’s work and to hire a consultant to facilitate the planning of the project.

As Webb presented the award, he stated “What a wonderful way to honor our community, to honor the Medeiros family as long-time Seekonk residents, and to honor Anthony’s wishes for the property.”

As she accepted the award, Connie Medeiros expressed her appreciation on behalf of the family and noted that the Town and family had worked together to “ensure that Anthony’s wishes were respected”. She emphasized that the Medeiros family will continue to participate in all aspects of the planning.

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

Paul Medeiros’ wife Connie and their great-grandson, Kason Gossic accept the award

Letter Carriers Renew Their Fight Against Hunger

The Seekonk Letter Carriers conducted their long-standing springtime food drive again this year; food collected will benefit local residents, as all the donations went to the Doorways food pantry. The drive raised between 2,500 and 3,000 pounds of food, thanks to the generosity of the people of Seekonk and the willingness of the letter carriers to undertake the extra work involved in collecting the donations.

The National Association of Letter Carriers has been conducting the food drive as a nationwide initiative since 1993, and the Seekonk Letter Carriers have been collecting for Doorways since the pantry opened in 2001. Over 70 local families rely on Doorways on a regular basis, and Doorways in turn relies on people like the letter carriers and their postal patrons. We thank the community and especially the Letter Carriers for taking the time to help us in our mission.

Aitken School Students 2nd Annual “Empty Bowls” to Support Doorways

Jacqueline “Jackie” Glum is the Art Teacher at Aitken School. In 2022, she created an “Empty Bowls” project that combined art instruction with an introduction to community involvement. She created a variation on the “Empty Bowls” theme, customized to appeal to elementary school students; but, as with all “Empty Bowl” events, the goal was to help fight hunger.

Jackie involved students from grades K-5 in forming the clay into bowls. The clay was kiln-dried twice and then the students painted the bowls – a veritable kaleidoscope of colors and patterns. The

Seekonk Letter Carriers continued on next page...

bowls were sold at the event as a fundraiser for the Doorways food pantry. The event itself had the air of a festival. Young musicians from the School of Rock provided live entertainment, and dozens of gallons of ice cream was donated by Outback Steak House. “Celebrity

scoopers” doled out generous portions of ice cream – the scoopers represented the police department, the fire department, the library, the school system, the town government, and the food pantry. A wonderful time was had by all - and the event raised over $2,100.00 for the Doorways food pantry. “That money will buy a great deal of food” said Diane Fox, chief of purchasing for Doorways. “There will be a lot fewer empty bowls in town because of the work of those students – and their teacher.”

Empty Bowls supports food-related charitable organizations around the world, and has raised millions of dollars to help end hunger. This event was the first of its kind in Seekonk. Doorways is grateful to Ms. Glum, and the students, faculty, staff and families of Aitken School for their support.

Grace Community Chapel Lives their Faith by Giving

The congregation of Grace Community Chapel is small in number, but their hearts are big. Following the instructions of Jesus Christ, they seek to feed the hungry and clothe the naked. The congregation makes contributions of food and clothing on a continuous basis, then undertakes to deliver these donations where they will serve God’s children. Every few weeks, a carload of groceries turns up at the Doorways food pantry for distribution to our neighbors in need. Their donations to Doorways support many Seekonk residents in need of a helping hand, and the food thus provided is filling cupboards of homes throughout Seekonk this very day.

It is not only the quantity of food that is so welcome, but also the variety afforded by food donations. “It’s such a joy to our shoppers to have a choice in the brands and flavors of the food we provide” said Dave Francis of Doorways. “At one point last summer, our cereal choices were corn flakes in a box or cornflakes in a bag. That was all we had.” Our gratitude is boundless - we are humbled by your support, awed by your generosity, and hopeful for the future. We give thanks for all you do. God bless you all.

Aitken IceCreamaPallooza 2023

Ruth Casino of Grace Community Chapel drops off a carload of groceries to Doorways every few weeks.

URI Master Gardeners in the Seekonk Parade

URI supports the Master gardener program at the Seekonk Library. They handed out over 1500 seedlings and lots of packages of seeds along the 2.2 mile route from the high school to the Hurley middle school.

URI Master Gardener participants for the Seekonk Meadows community garden.

Uncle Sam (Jeff Faria) and Cheryl Faria

Marching in the parade

The URI Extension Outreach Center table with seedlings near the library along the parade route

Local Grants Awarded for Seekonk Cultural Council

The Seekonk Cultural Council, have announced the award of 20 grants totaling over $8000, for cultural programs in Seekonk.

A complete list of recipients and grant amounts can be found below.

The Seekonk Cultural Council is part of a network of 329 Local Cultural Councils 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 Mass Cultural Council, a state agency, which then allocates funds to each community.

Statewide, more than $3.3 million will be distributed by local cultural councils in [year]. 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, First Night celebrations, nature and science education programs for families and town festivals. Nearly half of LCC funds support educational activities for young people.

The Seekonk Cultural Council will seek applications again in the fall. For guidelines and complete information on the Seekonk Cultural Council, contact Chairperson, Bill Clark at Brotherb2@comcast.net Applications and more information about the Local Cultural Council Program are available online at www.mass-culture.org.

This year’s grants include:

• Attleboro Arts Museum: High Art

• Glum, Jacqueline: Brazilian Capoeira Dance and Music Ensemble

• Glum, Jacqueline: BIG NAZO sculpture workshop and assembly

• Maria Holme: Creative Wellness ~ Workshop

• Hurlbut, Steven M.: Jumpin’ Juba Senior Concert

• Glum, Jacqueline: Empty Bowls

• Stepanek, Julie: Find Your Voice - A Program of Chants, Call & Responses and Singable Songs

• Lappen, Henry: Henry the Juggler Performance

• Campbell, Phil: Man of La Manch

• Beth Goulet: Mandala painting for fun and relaxation

• Cope, Jr., Edward L.: Magic for Seniors

• Strictly Sentimental Swing Band: Swing Music

• Seekonk High School: Teacher’s Discovery Traveling Exhibition

“Leonardo DaVinci”

• Osamequin Farm, Inc.: Completing the self-guided audio history tour at Osamequin Farm

• Sicard, Darlene: Gluten Free & Vegan Edible Cookie Dough Making

• York, Matt: The Highwaymen - Songs & Stories

• Guglielmo, Leslie: Patchwork Party

• Rull, Thomas E.: A Musical Journey Through the Years

• Bates III, Davis R.: Halloween Harvest: A Performance for Seniors

• Reilly, Stacie: Camp Half Blood

Seekonk Animal Shelter News

Sidney and Aubrey are an adorable bonded pair that must be adopted together. These girls were found as strays in the same field and are both friendly but shy. Sidney is a small, 1 year old short haired, black and white tuxedo female who doesn’t mind being picked up and held. Aubrey is a 2 year old female tortie who loves treats and being petted. Aubrey has big beautiful eyes and she

also can be picked up and held and will even begin purring! Both are spayed, up to date on vaccines and microchipped. They are fine with other cats but tend to keep to themselves and would do great in a quiet home.. They really love each other and are often found cuddled up together.

Do you have room in your heart and home for this precious pair? Visit them at the Seekonk Animal Shelter, 100 Peck Street, Seekonk MA. Questions? Call 508-3366663

Sidney and Aubrey

The Seekonk Fire Department hosted our first Local Hero Throwdown between Seekonk Police Department and Seekonk Fire Department! Both teams did an amazing job preparing the “perfect bite” tacos while being supervised by Chef Stephen Coe. In the end, the police department was victorious but both teams are winners in our eyes for the hard work and sacrifice they put in day in and day out for our community.

Thank you to our lead sponsor Toyota of Dartmouth and our supporting sponsors:

• Lobsta Love Truck

• Smith Mills Apiaries

• D2S Apparel

• Badmonkeypics

• Brabo Payroll

• One SouthCoast

• Servpro of Dartmouth / New Bedford

• TheRiot Agency

• Milestone Mortgage Solutions

• BankFive

The police department wins for “perfect bite”

The chefs hard at work

Seekonk Budget Update

By Joe Siegel

Voters at a town meeting last month approved a $69.1 million budget for the next fiscal year but rejected a salary increase for the Board of Selectmen. One of the warrant articles asked for the approval of salaries and compensation for elected and appointed town officials.

David Andrade, a former selectman, made a motion to increase the stipends for the Board of Selectmen. As worded in the article, the Chairperson is to be paid $2400 and each member receives $2100. Andrade suggested a $12,000 stipend for the Chairperson and $10,000 each for the other members.

Town Administrator Shawn Cadime said the money for those increases could be appropriated from free cash, which Andrade called for. Andrade felt the increases were justified due to the huge time commitment involved and believed it would result in a wider pool of candidates for the board in future elections.

Doreen Taylor, a former selectwoman, didn’t think it was appropriate to increase the compensation for one board and not for the other town boards, including the School Committee, Planning Board, Zoning Board of Appeals, and Board of Assessors. Taylor believed in “fair and equal consideration for everyone.”

“You can have trust in us,” said Selectwoman Michelle Hines, speaking against Andrade’s proposal.

Andrade’s motion was rejected soundly, with 18 voting in favor and 173 opposed. The article, as written, was approved by a vote of 142 to 22.

The biggest portion of the budget was designated to education - $33.3 million. The Seekonk Public Schools allocation was $31.7 million, a three percent increase over the current fiscal year. The Tri-County School assessment is $1.3 million. The assessment for Bristol County Agricultural School is $192,000.

The budget for Public Safety is $11.2 million, a five percent increase over the current fiscal year. There will be five new full-time positions for the Fire Department and two new full-time positions for the Police Department. Cadime said recruiting new police and fire personnel was a “significant challenge.”

“We can’t compete with the private sector, Cadime noted. “We’re doing more with less.”

The Finance Committee recommended adding $80,000 to the police payroll for the hiring of a second SRO (school resource officer). That amount was to be taken from the school department’s budget line.

School Committee Vice-Chair Kim Sluter spoke against the motion, calling it “overreach” for the Finance Committee to pull funds from the schools. The amendment was rejected, with 55 voting in favor and 147 opposed.

The fate of other warrant articles, including an appropriation of $100,000 to fund a feasibility study on the Seekonk Public Library, were undetermined at press time.

Seekonk Library Study Approved

By Joe Siegel

Voters at Monday’s town meeting approved $100,000 for a feasibility study for the Seekonk Public Library.

Other articles which were approved:

Appropriate the sum of $55, 217.66 from the Ambulance Receipts account for the purchase of two LUCAS machines to assist with CPR for the Fire Department.

To act on the report of the Community Preservation Committee on the Fiscal Year 2024 Community Preservation Budget and to appropriate from the Community Preservation Fund a sum of money to meet the administrative expenses and all other necessary and proper expenses of the CPC for Fiscal Year 2024. The FY 2024 Budgeted Reserve is $450, 928.

Authorized the Board of Selectmen to dispose of surplus property or materials no longer needed by the town.

Authorized the Board of Selectmen to appoint a Medeiros Farm Committee consisting of seven members for the purpose of overseeing the Medeiros Farm project Elm Street and Lincoln Street. The committee will operate under the direction of the BOS. Members will be representing the CPC, Historic Commission, Conservation Commission, Parks and Recreation Committee, and the Planning Board.

An article regarding the acquisition by gift, purchase, or eminent domain of six parcels of land at 34 Hammond Street, 0 Hammond Street, 291 Chestnut Street, 297 Chestnut Street, 303 Chestnut Street and 0 Chestnut Street containing 6.46 acres, and to appropriate and transfer $560,000 from the Community Preservation Budgeted Reserve Fund for the purchase of that property, was indefinitely postponed.

Seekonk Honors Police and Fire Personnel

By Joe Siegel

Members of the Seekonk Police and Fire departments were honored for their service at the May 24 Board of Selectmen meeting.

EMS Director Timothy Goodwin was lauded for being a “compassionate caregiver.”

“He’s passionate about his position and does a good job,” Fire Chief Sandra Lowery said of Goodwin. “The technology, education, and leadership he has brought to our department is second to none.

Lowery noted Goodwin has been honored as EMS Coordinator of the Year by the BristolNorth Medical Services Committee.

Selectmen Chair Michael Healy read a proclamation in recognition of National Emergency Services Week.

“I just want to thank you guys for the job you do every single day protecting this community,” Healy said to Police Chief David Enos.

“It’s really good that we work for community that appreciates their police department, as well as the town administration,” Enos said. “It makes our jobs a little easier so we do appreciate it and acknowledge it, thank you very much.”

Seekonk Water Department Honored

By Joe Siegel

At a State House presentation on May 11, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) recognized the Seekonk Water District for its Outstanding Performance in the Medium and Large Community Systems. Seekonk Water has received this award in six of the last seven years.

This is a compliance-based award program with only the highest scoring public water systems recognized. The system must maintain compliance with drinking water regulations for the entire calendar year, and public water systems that take initiative to venture above and beyond compliance help narrow the selection.

The Seekonk Water District is among the 18 medium and large community systems to receive this prestigious award for 2022. The Massachusetts Senate and House of Representatives awarded official citations recognizing the water districts for their accomplishments.

Seekonk Water District was recognized for its Outstanding Performance in the Medium and Large Community Systems at the State House last month.

People In The News University News

Bridgewater State Awards Degrees in Graduate Studies

Foxboro – Master’s degrees and certificates of advanced graduate study were awarded to approximately 470 graduate students at Bridgewater State University’s 17th Graduate Commencement Convocation on May 12 at Gillette Stadium. BSU’s 2023 ceremonies celebrated the power of art and the performing arts to enrich our lives and recognized those who have made their mark in the region and beyond.

Rehoboth: Kathleen Castro, Brian Kreizinger, Lucyna Kwiek and Hailey Langlois.

Seekonk: Brianna Orourke, Alba Ortiz and Kathleen Santos. Curry

College Welcomes Nicole Moreira into Alexander Graham Bell Honor Society

Milton, MA -- Curry College welcomes Nicole Moreira of Rehoboth, MA into the Alexander Graham Bell Honor Society. The objective of the Alexander Graham Bell (AGB) Honor Society is to promote and recognize academic excellence at Curry College. The Society is named for the famous inventor, Alexander Graham Bell, who was an early chancellor at Curry College. It was founded in 1971 to recognize and promote academic excellence through a variety of activities at Curry.

Emily Fasteson, of Seekonk, Recognized for Academic Excellence with Annual Honors Convocation Award

Worcester, - Assumption University honored 75 students with academic awards for excelling in their individual fields of study. The annual spring Honors Convocation is an opportunity to recognize students who have received one of the University’s academic departmental honors, special awards, and Augustine Scholarships. Emily Fasteson, Class of 2024, of Seekonk, received the Augustine Scholarship.

SNHU Announces Winter 2023 President’s List

Manchester, NH -- It is with great pleasure that Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) congratulates the following students on being named to the Winter 2023 President’s List.

Seekonk: Olivia Penacho

Rehoboth: Shannon Wetherell, Emily Eckerson, Michael Scanlon

SNHU Announces Winter 2023 Dean’s List

Manchester, NH -- It is with great pleasure that Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) congratulates the following students on being named to the Winter 2023 Dean’s List.

Seekonk: Elizabeth Brady

Rehoboth: Matthew Fortin

Megan Fitzgerald Inducted into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi

Baton Rouge, LA -- Megan Fitzgerald of Rehoboth, Massachusetts, was recently initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society. Fitzgerald was initiated at Salem State University.

Regis College Celebrates 93rd Commencement Exercises

Weston, MA -- Empowered and inspired by their Regis education to serve as leaders and advocates for a more just and compas-

sionate global society, more than 1,300 students graduated with degrees ranging from associate to doctoral levels.

Rehoboth

• Andria Braga graduated Cum laude with a BS in Nursing

• Cassidy Mello graduated Magna cum laude with a BS in Nursing Seekonk

• Isabelle Ocholla graduated with a MS in Nursing - Psychiatric/ Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Seekonk, Massachusetts Resident Jordan Pina Completes Intensive Research Project

Worcester, MA -- Jordan Pina, a member of the class of 2024 majoring in Electrical and Computer Engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), was a member of a student team that recently completed an intense research project titled The Changing Face of La Goyco.

Emerson College Student

Kathryn Poole Inducted Into 2022-2023

Gold Key Honor Society

Boston, MA -- Emerson College student Kathryn Poole of Rehoboth, is one of ninety-eight seniors and juniors inducted into Emerson’s Gold Key Honor Society on April 5th, 2023 in a ceremony in the Semel Theater located in Boston, Massachusetts. Kathryn is majoring in Media Arts Production and is a member of the Class of 2022.

The Gold Key Honor Society is an interdisciplinary organization founded at Emerson in 1962 to “recognize and encourage outstanding academic achievement.” Juniors in the top 5 percent of their class, and seniors in the top 10 percent of their class who have earned at least 48 credits are eligible.

Fitchburg State Holds 127th Commencement

Exercises, Spring Ceremonies

Fitchburg–Fitchburg State University celebrated its 127th commencement exercises this month, awarding nearly 850 undergraduate and graduate degrees.

Rehoboth: Jackson Richard Gervais, MED, Curriculum

and Teaching

Seekonk: Lauren Elizabeth Cavanagh, BS, Business Administration

Stonehill College Celebrates the Class of 2023

Easton, MA -- 548 students processed at Stonehill College’s 72nd Commencement on Sunday, May 21, 2023.

Seekonk: Alexander Bergstrand, Nolan Carlson, Taylor Troiano

Rehoboth: John de Abreu

Reginald Bastien Graduates from Lee University

Cleveland, TN -- Reginald Bastien of Seekonk, MA, graduated with the Bachelor of Science in Ministry Leadership, Pastoral Ministry from Lee University during the 187th commencement exercises on May 6, 2023.

Assumption Students Named to University’s Dean’s List

Worcester, MA -- Assumption University has announced those who have been named to the University’s Dean’s List for the spring 2023 semester.

Rehoboth: Ashley Calore, Mary-Catherine Masterson, Matthew McNaughton

Seekonk: Emily Fasteson, Meredith Riordan

Seekonk

Resident Thomas Ciolfi Receives

Bachelor’s Degree at Worcester Polytechnic Institute’s 154th Commencement

Worcester, MA -- On Saturday, May 13, Thomas Ciolfi, who majored in Mechanical Engineering, was bestowed a bachelor’s degree at WPI’s 154th Commencement. Nearly 1,100 undergraduate degrees were awarded during the ceremony.

Worcester Polytechnic Institute Announces Spring 2023 Dean’s List

Worcester, MA -- A total of 2,054 undergraduate students achieved the criteria required for WPI’s spring 2023 Dean’s List. The criteria for the WPI Dean’s List differs from that of most other universities as WPI does not compute a grade point average (GPA). Instead, WPI defines the Dean’s List by the amount of work completed at the A level in courses and projects.

Bella DeCilio, class of 2025, majoring in Biochemistry

Alexander Tomellini, class of 2026, majoring in Electrical and Computer Engineering

Samantha B. Dietel Graduates from Providence College

On Sunday May 21, 2023, Providence College celebrated their 105th undergraduate commencement ceremony. Among the graduates was Seekonk resident, Samantha B. Dietel. Samantha graduated summa cum laude with a BA degree in both Psychology and Elementary/Special Education. She is also a member of Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology, as well as Kappa Delta Pi honor society, Dirigo Leadership Honor Society, and Phi Sigma Tau Honor Society, and was named to the Dean’s List all eight semesters. Samantha will continue her education at Northeastern University this fall, as she pursues her Master of Science in Counseling Psychology.

Erica E. Duncan Graduates from Providence College

On Sunday May 21, 2023, Providence College celebrated their 105th undergraduate commencement ceremony. Among the graduates was Rehoboth resident, Erica E. Duncan. Erica graduated summa cum laude as a member of the Liberal Arts Honors Program with BS degrees in both accountancy and finance. She is also a member of Beta Gamma Sigma, an international business honors society, and was named to the Dean’s List all eight semesters. Erica will continue her education at Providence College this fall as a member of the Accounting Cohort to earn her MBA while pursuing her CPA license.

Seekonk Resident Donna Kaba

Receives Doctor of Nursing Practice

Congratulations to Seekonk resident Donna Kaba who received her Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Rhode Island. Donna celebrated this major milestone, alongside her family, during URI’s graduation ceremony on May 19.

Donna is a certified AdultGerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. She is a primary care provider at PACE Organization of Rhode Island and is based in their East Providence location.

“I am deeply dedicated to improving health care outcomes and supporting the unique needs of geriatric care,” said Donna. “I look forward to continuing to drive meaningful change and enhance the quality of life for our aging communities.”

Kendra Adams Receives Master of Arts in Teaching Mathematics

Kendra Adams of Seekonk received her Master of Arts in Teaching Mathematics at Providence College’s 105th Commencement on May 19th. Kendra is a 2020 graduate of Stonehill College and a 2016 graduate of Seekonk High School. She is a math teacher at Bishop Feehan High School in Attleboro.

Azar Receives RIC Alumni Award

Dr. Anthony C. Azar, retired Superintendent of Schools from the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District, was awarded with the prestigious Rhode Island College Alumni Award.

The Alumni Award recognizes graduates of Rhode Island College who have brought honor to the college by distinguished achievement in their field. The nominees are role models whose success demonstrates the value of a Rhode Island College degree.

The following was read at the Alumni Award Presentation on May 4, 2023 prior to Dr. Azar receiving his award.

“Dr. Anthony C. Azar attended RIC from 1979 to 1983 and graduated with a degree in secondary education/public administration. He became a teacher at Bishop McVinney Regional School in South Providence, RI beginning in the 1983-1984 school year. Serving as an inspirational teacher, he was cited by “the more you know” project from WJAR TV channel 10 as an innovative teacher. He inspired his students as a social studies teacher, assistant principal, athletic director and a coach for a commitment of 11 years at Bishop McVinney. He is still remembered fondly by his students from all those years ago as many keep in contact with him to let him know how impactful he was on their lives. At a McVinney reunion from a few years ago, one of his former students spoke fondly of remembering what it was like in his class, saying what impact Mr. Azar had on his life. His former students from nearly 40 years ago said that Mr. Azar was like family and that you could always rely on his guidance. Mr. Azar would go on to receive a master in education and his doctorate in education.

In addition, Anthony utilized his public administration experience at RIC while serving as a RI state senator from 1988-1990. During that time he represented district 34 Lincoln/Smithfield with a focus on education, environmental and youth/social services. Anthony attributes his political acumen to his RIC education and his success in his many administrative positions.

In 2017, Dr. Azar received the ‘Educator of the Year Award’ from the Rehoboth Lions’ Club when he was Superintendent in Dighton-Rehoboth which represented, “whose dedications to the students and whose accomplishments in the field of education serve as models to both active, professionals and those entering the profession”.

Dr. Azar would go on to utilize his education from RIC to span a 40 year career which varied across several levels including being a classroom teacher, assistant principal, principal, central office administrator and the superintendency. He would continue to develop his educational expertise culminating with his retirement from the superintendency from the D.R. Regional School District this past year.

Finally, his attributes of dedication to excellence and respect for all persons were fundamental to his commitment to education and public service. Dr. Azar’s penchant to work with various groups in school and in the

Your Countryside Oasis Awaits...

Your Countryside Oasis Awaits...

We’re a public country club with an elevated atmosphere. Hillside is a destination for families, friends and co-workers to have some great times in the countryside.

Your Countryside Oasis Awaits...

We’re a public country club with an elevated atmosphere. Hillside is a destination for families, friends and co-workers to have some great times in the countryside.

We’re a public country club with an elevated atmosphere. Hillside is a destination for families, friends and co-workers to have some great times in the countryside.

We’re a public country club with an elevated atmosphere. Hillside is a destination for families, friends and co-workers to have some great times in the countryside.

Experience homemade, from scratch recipes at Hillside Tavern

We’re a public country club with an elevated atmosphere. Hillside is a destination for families, friends and co-workers to have some great times in the countryside.

Daily Pool Passes Still Available $15 per person, under 3 is free

Experience homemade, from scratch recipes at Hillside Tavern

Experience homemade, from scratch recipes at Hillside Tavern

Two state-of-the-art, private Trackman golf simulators that fit up to 10 comfortably

Experience homemade, from scratch recipes at Hillside Tavern

Two state-of-the-art, private Trackman golf simulators that fit up to 10 comfortably

Two state-of-the-art, private Trackman golf simulators that fit up to 10 comfortably

Two state-of-the-art, private Trackman golf simulators that fit up to 10 comfortably

Sunshine, scenery, sips and snacks! Enjoy it all at our outdoor Tiki Bar.

Sunshine, scenery, sips and snacks! Enjoy it all at our outdoor Tiki Bar.

Sunshine, scenery, sips and snacks! Enjoy it all at our outdoor Tiki Bar.

Sunshine, scenery, sips and snacks! Enjoy it all at our outdoor Tiki Bar.

Live entertainment, trivia nights and premier dining experiences

Live entertainment, trivia nights and premier dining experiences

Live entertainment, trivia nights and premier dining experiences

Live entertainment, trivia nights and premier dining experiences

@thehillsidecc | hillsidecountryclub.com

@thehillsidecc | hillsidecountryclub.com

community was awe inspiring. He is one of the most dedicated and committed individuals you could imagine after serving for over 40 years as an advocate for students, staff and parents in the public/ private sector of Rhode Island and Massachusetts. He is a very proud Rhode Island College Graduate.” @thehillsidecc | hillsidecountryclub.com 82 Hillside Ave, Rehoboth, MA 02769

@thehillsidecc | hillsidecountryclub.com

82 Hillside Ave, Rehoboth, MA 02769

508-252-9761

82 Hillside Ave, Rehoboth, MA 02769

82 Hillside Ave, Rehoboth, MA 02769

508-252-9761

508-252-9761

508-252-9761

Rebecca Kidwell Named Superintendent of Seekonk Public Schools

The Seekonk Superintendent Search Committee is pleased to announce that Rockland Public Schools Assistant Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell has been selected as the next superintendent of Seekonk Public Schools.

Pending successful contract negotiations, Kidwell is expected to assume her new role on July 1 following Superintendent Rich Drolet’s departure from the district at the end of the school year.

“I’m thrilled to join the Seekonk team, in large part because of the community that cares strongly about education. I truly believe we can work together to maintain Seekonk’s existing strengths and provide avenues for change and growth where the opportunities exist,” Kidwell said. “Seekonk’s students deserve a school system that prepares them for post-secondary education and 21st-century careers. I look forward to working with the school committee, the leadership team, faculty, staff and families to make the Seekonk Public Schools a successful and enjoyable learning experience for all students.”

Kidwell has served as Assistant Superintendent of Rockland Public Schools since 2021. In this role, she led the district review, adoption and implementation process around district-designed resources for literacy and writing. She is also credited with expanding Rockland’s English Learner Education (ELE) department by providing districtwide professional development to support best practices in English Language Development and Sheltered English Immersion instruction and initiating free adult education for English Learners.

Prior to serving in the Rockland Public Schools district, Kidwell held several positions within Braintree Public Schools including Director of Technology and Accountability, Interim Director of Curriculum and Technology, Director of English, Reading and English Learner Education and as an English teacher.

Kidwell received a Master of Education degree in organizational management from Endicott College, a master’s degree in teaching English from Boston University and a bachelor’s degree in English from Oberlin College.

Outside of work, Kidwell is involved in several professional organizations including the Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development, Massachusetts Association of Superintendents (MASS), South Shore Roundtable of MASS and Massachusetts Association of Teachers of Speakers of Other Languages.

Puppies are a a lot of work!!

She was also a member of the K-6 Digital Literacy and Computer Science Integration Network and a Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers fellow.

Kidwell was selected following a rigorous candidate search that began in March. On May 18, the Superintendent Search Committee publicly interviewed its three finalists and conducted tours of the schools before selecting Kidwell as the superintendent-elect.

“I’d like to thank our three finalists - Dr. Andrea Schwamb, Rebecca Kidwell and Dr. Marlene DiLeo - as they each put significant effort into pursuing a leadership position in our school district,” Search Committee and School Committee Chair Meaghan Mahoney said. “The School Committee applauds their efforts and professionalism throughout the process, and we thank them for their interest in the community we all call home. I’d also like to thank my School Committee colleagues for working to make the best possible decisions for our students, faculty, staff, parents and community.”

The Superintendent Search Committee would also like to thank the District Leadership team - including building Principals, Assistant Principals, teachers and staff - that assisted in coordinating the candidates’ visits and the greater school community for their involvement throughout the process.

Rebecca Kidwell

ChurCh News & eveNts

Rehoboth Congregational Church News

Worship With Us Every Sunday

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

Choir Sunday

Join us Sunday, June 4th for Choir Sunday! Celebrate our fantastic choir with us during 10 AM worship!

Join

RCC for Father’s Day

Join us on Father’s Day for Sunday 10AM Worship – It is also Mason Sunday!

Children’s Day

Sunday, June 11th | 10 AM in The Sanctuary | Join us as we culminate the program year! Church School will resume in September – be on the lookout for the save the date for Rally Night & Rally Day!

Annual RCC Yard Sale

Saturday, June 17th | 9 AM – 2 PM | If you are dropping off items, they can be dropped off starting at 6 AM that morning. Thank you for your support!

Bible Study

Every Thursday at 10:00 AM in our Fellowship Hall, lead by Jodi Durette, Chair of Deacons – coffee will be provided.

Summer Office Hours

The church office will be open Tuesday – Friday | 9 AM – 1 PM

Future Save The Dates!

• Tiki Takeover – Date TBD

• Rally Night – Date TBD

• Rally Day – Date TBD

New Pastor Appointed at Holy Cross Catholic Church

The Most Rev. Jeffrey E. Megna, has recently been appointed Pastor at Holy Cross Catholic Church. He has served as Assistant Pastor since November 2020. Holy Cross Catholic Church is an Independent Catholic Community; Mass is celebrated each Sunday morning at 10:30 a.m. We are located at 141 Hornbine Road, Rehoboth.

All Are Welcome!

Seekonk Congregational Church In Person Sunday Services

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

We will have a 2nd service on the first Sunday of June and

resume the 2nd service in September. Our church school continues through the summer at 9:30 AM

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

Vacation Bible School

Mark your calendars for August 7 – 11, 2023 8:45 to 12:15 each day for VBS 2023. The theme this year is GO GREEN. Ages preschool – 6th grade for $25 for the week. 7th grade and older will serve as VBS Helpers. All are welcome, you do not need to be a member to attend vacation bible school. For information contact Kristin at 774-991-1555.

Mission and Social Action Book Discussion

You are invited to join in the discussion with “Bad Girls of the Bible: And What We Can Learn from Them” by Liz Curtis Higgs. What labels a woman as bad hasn’t changed much since Eve. Yes, she was the first “bad girl”. What does it mean to be a “bad girl”? All the usual suspects are here: disobedience, greed, anger, gossip, lying, adultery, laziness, cruelty. The list goes on and on. Please join us in learning what we can from Eve, Jezebel, Delilah, the woman at the well, Lot’s wife, Potiphar’s wife, Sapphira, Rehab, Michal, and other “sinful” women.

This book is available at the library.

The book discussion will take place on June 22, 6 pm. If you are interested, please contact Betty Graham at bettygraham5@ yahoo.com or Bonnie Deblois at bhdeblois@gmail.com

Please make note of all our upcoming services and activities:

• 06/04/23 Worship Service – 2 Services 9:30 & 11 AM (at 11AM our Confirmands will be confirmed, all are welcome to attend)

• 06/11/23 Worship Service 9:30 AM – Childrens Sunday

• 06/18/23 Worship Service 9:30 AM

• 06/25/23 Worship Service 9:30 AM

• 07/02/23 Worship Service 9:30 AM

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

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

&

Rehoboth Garden Club June News

In commemoration of Arbor Day, on April 29, 2023 our club planted a beautiful redbud tree near the pond and gazebo at Francis Farm. Our thanks to Little Tree Nurseries in Seekonk who donated the tree.

The Rehoboth Garden Club Annual Plant Sale took place at Francis Farm on Saturday May 6, 2023, and was a great success. Our sincere thanks and appreciation go out to our Rehoboth Selectmen, specifically Selectman George Solas, Tish Vadnais and the Agricultural Commission, Buildings and Maintenance Supervisor Mike Viveiros and his crew, Deputy Police Chief Brian Ramos and his officers, Adam Latham of Bristol County Agricultural High School, Sousa Family Farm on Agricultural Ave. Rehoboth, Frerichs Farm in Warren, RI, our club members who dug up and grew plants to donate, and volunteered their help before, during and after the sale, and our many loyal customers who supported our annual fundraiser. All your purchases help to fund our scholarship, civic, and educational programs.

Our next meeting will be combined with a private guided tour of the New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill on June 26, 2023. Members who have not yet signed up should contact President Paul Nunes by June 10, 2023.

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

A Message of Thanks from the Rehoboth Garden Club

The Rehoboth Garden Club held our annual Plant Sale on Saturday May 6th at Francis Farm. We were delighted to see the hundreds of community members who attended.

What those people saw were beautiful, healthy plants. What they couldn’t see were the many individuals and Rehoboth Town Departments that made our sale possible.

The following deserve our recognition and sincere thanks:

Our Rehoboth Selectmen, who recognized early on the potential for utilizing Francis Farm as the hub of Rehoboth’s community and social life, and allowed us to be the first town organization to use the facility in 2022.

Specifically, Selectman George Solas, who has become our garden club’s greatest advocate and patron. The time, skills, and

Rehoboth Garden Club Arbor Day tree planting

effort George has invested in the Rehoboth Garden Club are truly appreciated.

Tish Vadnais, and the Agricultural Commission, who generously sponsored our sale.

Buildings and Maintenance Supervisor Mike Viveiros and his crew. Those men worked so hard to prepare, set up and break down the pavilion, and provide us with everything we needed on site.

Deputy Police Chief Brian Ramos and his officers, who diligently patrolled the pavilion to protect our 1,800+ plants and equipment from theft or vandalism.

Adam Latham, the Department Head of Landscaping Design and Contracting at Bristol County Agricultural High School. Our collaboration with Adam makes unique bushes, shrubs and trees that were grown at their school available to our customers. Profits from the sale of those plants are shared by Bristol Aggie and our Rehoboth Garden Club.

Val Sousa, owner of Sousa Family Farm on Agricultural Ave. Rehoboth, and Barbara and David Frerich, owners of Frerichs Farm in Warren, Rhode Island, who provided us with beautiful annuals and hanging plants at deeply discounted prices. Both of these local family businesses contribute a great deal to their communities.

Our club members, who dug up and grew plants to donate, and volunteered their help. Special thanks to Co-Chair Helen Saulia and the Plant Sale Committee, who dedicated so much time and hard work before, during and after the sale.

Our many loyal customers, who supported our annual fundraiser. The happy buzz of people talking and laughing with others while shopping made this more than a sale. It was a community social event. All your purchases help to fund our scholarship, civic, and educational programs.

The overwhelming success of our plant sale is a beautiful example of what can be accomplished by our town, for our town.

On behalf of the full membership of the Rehoboth Garden Club, I sincerely appreciate and thank you all.

Linda McHugh, Plant Sale Committee Co-Chair

Rehoboth Lions Recognition Night

On May 17, 2023, the Rehoboth Lions held their 19th Russell Latham Citizen’s Award Banquet at Hillside Country Club. This year’s Winners are Left to Right:

• Victor Augusto Educator of The Year Award

• Kristin Voccio Educator of The Year award

• Jennifer Shallcross Good Neighbor Award

• Maureen Whittemore Community Service Award

• Gerry Schwall Public Servant Award

• Maureen Castro Community Service Award

• Morgan Randall Outstanding Youth Award

Rehoboth Lions Recognized on May 17th

The Hornbine School Museum

Classes from surrounding towns have begun to visit the Hornbine School for the season. We will have our last scheduled class on the 17th. There are many days open this fall to have other CLASSES join us for a day. The school is open to public, private and home-schooled classes. The cost for a class to spend a day at the school is $150.00. For additional information contact Cathy Potter, School Director, at 508 252 3682

The Hornbine School Museum will be open to the public on June 11th, (2 – 4 P.M.) Visit us any 2nd and/or 4th Sunday, June – September, this summer. It’s FREE! (Although we will always except donations) We are located at 144 Hornbine Road in south east Rehoboth, MA. Come on down with your children and enjoy some local history and “Old Fasioned” games.

Google “hornbineschool” to see our website. The Hornbine School Museum also has a Facebook page.

Paying Cash For

Gold, Silver, and Sterling u.s. and Foreign coins

old comics and sporting cards

old watches and collectibles diamonds and jewlery

phone # 508 336-9103

113 taunton avenue seekonk, mass

same location for 40 years

Fred C. Chrisbaie became a member of the American Legion Post 019 in Somerville, Massachusetts in March 1973, at the age of 27. He was an active member there for nearly 8 years. Went to work for Texas Instruments in Attleboro, Massachusetts in November of 1980 and moved to Mansfield, Massachusetts in 1981. Then he moved to Rehoboth, Massachusetts in 1983.

In 1986, while attending an Outdoor Fair at Francis Farm, he saw a booth for American Legion Post 302 and asked to transfer his membership to Post 302 and has been an active member ever since.

In March 2023 he was awarded an American Eagle Statue from Rehoboth Post 302, and a Certificate from American Legion, National Commander, Vincent J. Troiola, for 50 Years of Continuous Membership in the American Legion.

Fred C. Chrisbaie stated “What an Honor” Thank You American Legion

Fred C. Chrisbaie

Ms. Koutsogiannis’ 3rd grade class from Swansea

American Legion Post 302 Public Events

• Now serving Baked Scrod on Thursdays 4:00 till 7:00 P.M. & Fridays 4:00 – 8 PM our kitchen remodeling for Fish & Chips should be open by May 1st

• Take Outs are welcome – call in your order in early for pickup at 508-252-9079

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

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

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

Monday Nights from & April – June or… Wednesday nights September – December and start up again in January – April

• The Cribbage League plays on Monday Nights January – March and then on Wednesday Nights from May – August

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

e-mail speedyjake@aol.com or call #508-252-9079

Upcomig Events

• June 9th, 2023 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – Live Music performed by Notorious Jones Entertainment with Classic Rock Music – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League�� https:// www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063368911454

• June 10th, 2023 - Friday - 7:00 - 10:00 P.M., On3 Entertainment, Classic Rock – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/

• June 11th, 2023 – Sunday -7:30-10:30 A.M. American Legion & Anawan Lions Monthly Breakfast, Second Sunday of every month $12.00 donation - All you can Eat! https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/

• June 16th, 2023 - Friday - 7:00 - 10:00 P.M., – Live Music performed by Gutzy Right Duo Entertainment with Classic Rock Music – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Dancing & having a GREAT TIME! https://www.facebook.com/GutzyRight

• June 23rd, 2023 - Friday - 6:30 - 10:00 P.M., Jim Powers Entertainment presents Old Time Rock “N” Roll, Classic Rock & County – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/

• June 30th, 2023 – Friday - 7:00 - 8:00 P.M., Sons of the American Legion’s Monthly Meat Raffle followed by Karaoke - 8:00 - 11:00 P.M. – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/

• June 30th, 2023 – Friday - 8:00 -11:00 P.M. – Live Karaoke performed by METTE Entertainment, Come on in and sing a song or two – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/ ��

• July 7th, 2023 - Friday - 7:00 - 10:00 P.M., On3 Entertainment, Classic Rock – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/

• July 9th, 2023 – Sunday -7:30 -10:30 A.M. American Legion & Anawan Lions Monthly Breakfast, Second Sunday of every month $12.00 donation - All you can Eat! https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/

• July 14th, 2023 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – Live Music performed by Notorious Jones Entertainment with Classic Rock Music – No

Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.

• July 21st, 2023 - Friday - 7:00 - 10:00 P.M., PENDING

• July 28th, 2023 – Friday - 7:00 - 8:00 P.M., Sons of the American Legion’s Monthly Meat Raffle followed by Karaoke - 8:00 - 11:00 P.M– No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart Board or join our Dart League https://www.facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/

From the Seekonk Lions Club

Hello everybody. This is George Junior here. Before I get into my Seekonk Lions update, please remember to visit our new Website and Facebook page for the latest information and events of the club. With that being said, how you all doing? Well, we are doing… and doing great! We are celebrating our 65th year as a Lions Chapter here in Massachusetts. Sixty-Five Years. That is a long time. And the Seekonk Lions Club is a strong as ever. Look at all the events we have had this Lionistic year.

A tribute and fundraiser establishing the David A. Pitassi Memorial Music Fund for kids who wish to further a career in music. The best!

The annual Octoberfest held in conjunction with Chris Gasbarro. All those free tasty samples and fine German cuisine. The best! Our world famous clam boils at the Seekonk Rod and Gun Club. You ask anyone. The best!

Free

A Christmas bash at the Grist Mill Restaurant with local celebrity Bombshell Betty belting out the tunes! The best!

The Eleventh Annual Doug Allan Memorial fishing derby at the Grist Mill Restaurant Pond. The 65 kids and parents caught a large number of fish and reaped the rewards at American Legion banquet. The best!

The 26th annual Taste of the Town. Sixteen local food establishments dishing out their best for the patrons. Then the liquor distributers who bring the latest offerings for tasting and enjoying notes and aromatics for those aficionados. The best!

Our 34th annual golf tournament now playing at Ledgemont Country Club. What a beautiful day on a great course with a great bunch of golfers. Local scratch and itchy golfer Len Silva of Seekonk taking home the trophy this year! The best!

As you can see, we packed a lot in one year. Been doing this for sixty-five years. We plan to continue to be the best. To be the best for our members, to be the best for this community, and to be the best period!

Enjoy the summer. See you the next Lionistic year 2023-2024.

Events at the Seekonk American Legion Post 311

Music at the American Legion

Friday Night Bands – starts at 8 pm

• Can Jam – 6/2

• Rock A Blues – 6/9

• Rock A Blues – 7/21

• Ricky V - Wednesdays from 7 pm to closing

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

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

Seekonk American Legion Accepting Donations for Operation Stand Down Rhode Island to Help Homeless and AtRisk Veterans

Operation Stand Down Rhode Island’s mission is to help homeless and at-risk veterans. It has provided thousands of veterans with access to important services including health, dental, and substance abuse care, as well as employment, legal, and housing services since 1993.

Each year OSDRI holds a two-day outreach event at 1010 Hartford Ave, Johnston, RI. This year the event will be held Thursday, 9/15 and Friday, 9/16.

The Seekonk Legion Family will be setting up a table to distribute socks and underwear to the male and female Veterans who attend the event. We are accepting donations of new socks and underwear from the community. A donation box is located downstairs at the American Legion Post located at 351 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA. For more information you can contact us at 508-336-9822 or auxiliary311@yahoo.com.

For more information on Operation Stand Down, please visit their website at www.osdri.org.

Seekonk Fire Museum 2023 Monthly

Updated Opening dates:

10AM-Noon

June: 17

The Museum will be closed in July

August: 19

September: 16

11th Annual Opening Doors celebration Thursday, June 15th

The Boys & Girls Club of Pawtucket is hosting their 11th Annual Opening Doors celebration this year on Thursday, June 15th. The event will take place at Camp Ramsbottom with doors opening at 4:30pm, tours from 4:30 – 6pm, followed by a speaking program. Last year’s celebration was held at Camp for the very first time, and the response received from attendees was so positive that they have decided to host the event at Camp again this year.

For over 50 years, Camp Ramsbottom has been a highlight for local children and families. Guests will be able to take tours of Camp Ramsbottom, mingle with our staff and partners, enjoy food from local food trucks, and learn about all of the incredible opportunities provided each day to the youth in our community. We will be honoring long-time supporters of the Club who have made a lasting impact. Funds raised from this event go directly towards supporting the youth the Club and Camp Ramsbottom serve all year. To purchase tickets, please visit bgcpawt.org/events/opening-doors-2023

Welcome!

Anniversary in Our New Location

Celebrating Our 1st Anniversary in Our New Location

Recipient of The President’s Award for 34 Consecutive Years!

come by and see our award winning new dealerToyota is the only dealer in New England to earn Presidents award in customer satisfaction in sales and one of only 6 in the Country to earn the award running ....So if your looking for a new car or truck 500 to choose and over 200 used of all makes and if we don’t have what your looking for we will being our specialty for over 50 years and if you come see what good old fashion service is really years of practice....no appointments necessary lube free pick up and delivery or 30 loaner cars reward points with any service or part purchases

Toyota is the only dealer in New

customer satisfaction in sales and service and one of only 6 in the Country to earn the award 29 years running...So if your looking for a new car or truck we have over 500 to choose and over 200 used of all makes and models and if we don’t have what your looking for we will find it used being our specialty for over 50 years and if you need service come see what good old fashion service is really like over 50 years of practice...no appointments necessary for Express lube free pick up and delivery or 30 loaner cars when needed reward points with any service or part purchases... remember we didn’t become one of New England’s best dealers by saying no bring us your best deal.

we didn’t become one of New England’s best

“Come and experience our Fast, Fair and Friendly deals!”

-DJ Anderson, Sales Manager

Events & Activities

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

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

Five Bridge Inn, 152 Pine Street, Rehoboth MA 02769

Hors d’oeuvres – Cash Bar

Buffet Dinner – DJ – Dancing

$75 per person. Reservations now being accepted.

Attire: Evening Casual

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

Smith Insurance Group

34th Annual Strawberry Festival

June 18, 2023 11am Till 4 Pm

Assonet, Massachusetts

Rain or Shine!

Homemade Strawberry Shortcake

Hot dogs and Lemonade

Live music from Midnight Sun Country Band

A great assortment of Crafters

Fun for the whole family!

• Crafters Call Dottie @ 508-644-2459. Spaces are filling up quickly!

• Assonet Village Four Corners at the Bandstand Route

• Exit 13 (Old Exit 10) from 24 South

• Exit 11 (Old Exit 9) From 24 North

• Our signs will lead you there! Free parking!

This annual Festival is held to provide scholarships for students from Freetown, MA

Sponsored by The Tuesday Club of Assonet and the Freetown Cultural Council, MA Cultural Council

www.tuesdayclubofassonet.org

Like us on Facebook: Tuesday Club of Assonet

Summer Chorus of RI and SE Massachusetts Open Rehearsals

Summer Chorus of RI and SE Massachusetts announces open rehearsals for its summer season. The Chorus will be directed by Frank Wilhelm of Somerset and accompanied by Erik Thompson Rehearsals start on Monday, June 5th from 7:00-9:30pm and will accept members until Monday, June 19th. The group will rehearse in an air conditioned space at St. Thomas More Parish, located at 386 Luther Ave in Somerset, MA.

The Summer Chorus will be preparing an array of music. Selections include “Hallelujah” from The Mount of Olives, “Disney on Stage,” “Rock, Roll & Remember,” a choral version of “The Sound of Silence,” “Sondheim! A Choral Celebration,” “Song for the Unsung Hero,” and “Cantique de Jean Racine.”

Singing with the Summer Chorus is a great opportunity to keep up and improve your singing skills over the summer. Requirements for the group are that you love to sing, attend rehearsals, be able to blend with other choristers, and pay reasonable dues of $60.00 which includes the costs of all the music.

The Summer Chorus has members from all over Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts including Warwick, East Providence, Providence, Tiverton, Little Compton, Fall River, Somerset, Swansea, Taunton, Middleboro, Dartmouth, Westport, New Bedford, Fairhaven and other surrounding cities and towns. The group performs two concerts in mid-August.

You may visit the group’s website at www.summerchorus.org for more information. If you have any questions, you may call Frank at 401-368-1698.

Newport Flower Show

June

23, 24 and 25, 2023

NEWPORT, R.I. – This year’s Newport Flower Show will take visitors on a colorful and beautiful voyage through the floral world, all within the spectacular rooms, terrace and lawn of Marble House.

Tickets are now on sale for the 27th annual Newport Flower Show, to be held June 23, 24 and 25, 2023.

For the first time in a quarter century, the Flower Show will be held at Marble House (1892), a Newport jewel inspired by the Petit Trianon of Versailles. The show’s usual location, Rosecliff, is undergoing several important restoration projects and will remain closed to the public until September.

The Opening Night Reception – the event that kicks off the Newport summer season – will be held Friday evening, June 23, from 6 to 8 p.m. Guests will mingle on the oceanside back lawn of Marble House while enjoying cocktails, cuisine from a variety of stations, live music and a lifestyle marketplace for shopping.

This year’s Flower Show takes its name and inspiration from “The Grand Tour,” the Gilded Age tradition of an extended voyage to immerse oneself in the art and culture of Europe. This theme will be reflected in the entries for the Creative Mixed Planters class, which will interpret such iconic destinations as Versailles, the Alps and Venice; and Botanical Arts, where artists create beautiful, intricate objects and jewelry from dried plant materials.

“Holding the Newport Flower Show in a different location will be both challenging and exciting,” said Trudy Coxe, CEO and Executive Director of The Preservation Society of Newport County, which organizes the show. “It creates many new possibilities. This is the reason for ‘The Grand Tour’ theme, and this Flower Show will be a favorite destination as we head into the summer season.”

Bartlett Tree Experts returns once again as the Presenting Sponsor of The Newport Flower Show. Event Sponsors include Atria Senior Living, Ala von Auersperg, BankNewport, Coca-Cola, R.P. Marzilli Landscape Professionals, National Trust Insurance Services LLC, Proven Winners and Taste Design Inc.

Daytime tickets for The Newport Flower Show will be for a specific date and time slot, either 9 a.m. to noon or noon to 3 p.m. VIP early admission at 8 a.m. is also available. Parking is free in the Preservation Society lot across Bellevue Avenue from Marble House.

For tickets, go to www.newportmansions.org/events/thenewport-flower-show.

The Preservation Society of Newport County, Rhode Island, is a nonprofit organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. It is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the area’s historic architecture, landscapes, decorative arts and social history. Its 11 historic properties – seven of them National Historic Landmarks – span more than 250 years of American architectural and social development.

For more information, please visit NewportMansions.org.

Seekonk High School Class of 1973 50th year Reunion

August 26th at 1087 Newman Ave. contact the committee Jacquelyn “Lyn“ Greeley Robinson, Deb Stebenne and Michelle Hines on Facebook and messenger. Pass the word.

Please makes checks payable to EPHS Class of 1963 and mail to Betty Dulude, 23 Circle Drive, Seekonk, MA by August 5.

Seekonk Public Library

Friends of the Seekonk Public Library News

The Friends are in need of preschool to grade 2 fiction and nonfiction books. Also in need especially are adult paperback fiction as well as nonfiction published within the last 5 years. Hard cover fiction and magazines within the last 3 months are also welcome. Please bring your book donations to the volunteer in the lobby who will accept books that are in resale condition.

Summer Concerts Series: Find Your Voice

Seekonk Public Library will bring its summer concert series and summer reading theme, Find Your Voice, together this year with three unique family friendly concerts. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and picnics and enjoy the following wonderful free performances, all open to the public:

Strictly Sentimental Swing Band

Monday, June 26, 6:30 PM

If you enjoy music from modern day artist Michael Bublé, then swing is your thing! You’ll be sure to enjoy Strictly Sentimental, a 19-piece band that plays swing music from the 1930s to the present, featuring vocalist Carroll Venable. This event is sponsored in part by a grant from the Seekonk Cultural Council, a local agency that is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council. Rain date July 17.

Len Cabral, Storyteller

Monday, July 24, 6:30 PM

Len Cabral is an internationally acclaimed storyteller who engages audiences of all ages with his storytelling performances at schools, libraries, museums, and festivals. A children’s book author and contributor to several folktale collections, Len also has five recordings featuring a wide range of his favorite stories, several receiving NAPPA and Parents’ Choice awards. Children and adults will be enchanted by this special performance! Registration required in case of rain.

Bill Harley

Monday, August 7, 6:30 PM

Local favorite, Bill Harley, needs no introduction. A two-time Grammy award winner, Bill entertains us all with his original music and stories. Entertainment Weekly calls him “the Mark Twain of contemporary children’s music” but it’s hard to say who enjoys his performance more, the kids or the adults! This event is generously sponsored by Sturdy Memorial Hospital.

For planning and to be notified of program updates please register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events.

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

An Evening with Eleanor Roosevelt

Thursday, June 22 at 6 PM

Eleanor Roosevelt is one of the most revered of all the first ladies, but how much do you know about her? Learn more about this famous voice at Seekonk Public Library on Thursday, June 22 at 6 PM in the program An Evening with Eleanor Roosevelt. In this presentation you will “meet” Eleanor Roosevelt at her home called Val Kill in Hyde Park, New York where she will discuss her role at the United Nations in passing the Declaration of Human Rights

The first person narrative performance is followed by an informative PowerPoint outlining Eleanor’s lifelong work in securing basic rights of all citizens of the world and life lessons she shared. This entertaining and informative program is presented by educator and theatre buff Carol Cohen; it is free and open to the public. For planning and to be notified of program updates please register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events.

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

Harry Potter Trivial Pursuit for Teens

Thursday, June 22 at 2:00 PM

Do you find yourself arguing that hippogriffs are cooler than dragons? Do you correct your friends when they mistake the Triwizard Tournament for the Quidditch Cup? Are you pretty sure you could have discovered the gillyweed solution if only you’d had the right book? If any of this sounds like more than Gobbledegook (Griphook’s native language, of course) to you, then come to Seekonk Public Library on Thursday, June 22 at 2:00 PM for some Harry Potter trivia! We’ll split up into four teams to play the official Trivial Pursuit: World of Harry Potter Ultimate Edition and test our knowledge of all eight movies (sorry, it’s NOT based on the books!). Snacks will be provided. For (rising) grades 6 through 12.

This program is free and open to the public; please register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events.

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

The Babysitter: My Summers with a Serial Killer

by Liza Rodman and Jennifer Jordan

Tuesday, June 27th at 6:00 PM

Join us for a lively discussion of The Babysitter: My Summers with a Serial Killer by Liza Rodman and Jennifer Jordan on Tuesday, June 27th at 6:00 PM at Seekonk Public Library. The title is available as an ebook through Libby, or you may place a hold and pick up a print copy at the library. New members are always welcome!

“”A chilling true story-part memoir, part crime investigation about a little girl longing for love and how she found friendship with her charismatic babysitter-who was also a vicious serial killer. Growing up on Cape Cod in the 1960s, Liza Rodman was a lonely little girl. During the summers, while her mother worked days in a local motel and danced most nights in the Provincetown bars, her babysitter-the kind, handsome handyman at the motel where her mother workedtook her and her sister on adventures in his truck. He bought them popsicles and together, they visited his “secret garden” in the Truro woods. To Liza, he was one of the few kind and understanding adults in her life. Everyone thought he was just a “great guy.” But there was one thing she didn’t know; their babysitter was a serial killer. Though Tony Costa’s gruesome case made screaming headlines in 1969 and beyond, Liza never made the connection between her friendly babysitter and the infamous killer of numerous women, including four in Massachusetts, until decades later. Haunted by nightmares and horrified by what she learned, Liza became obsessed with the case. Now, she and cowriter Jennifer Jordan reveal the chilling and unforgettable true story of a charming but brutal psychopath through the eyes of a young girl who once called him her friend.” Provided by publisher.

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

Nature Photography Contest Reception

Wednesday, June 28 at 6 PM

Join us at the Seekonk Library on Wednesday, June 28 at 6 PM for the Nature Photography Contest Reception. We will celebrate the winners of this year’s contest and all the entries highlighting Seekonk’s beautiful natural spaces and ecology at this casual event. Come enjoy the remarkable photographs shared from all ages in our community and get to learn about the Seekonk Land Trust’s preservation efforts. Light refreshments will be served. Please register in advance in the online Events Calendar at www. seekonkpl.org/events.

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

Man of La Mancha: Stories & Songs from the Musical

Thursday, June 29 at 6 PM

“Here me now, oh thou bleak and despicable world; thou art base and debauched as can be.” With these words Don Quixote de La Mancha begins a journey unparalleled in musical theater. Join musical story-teller Phil Campbell in the Large Meeting Room at Seekonk Public Library for Man of La Mancha: Stories & Songs from the Musical on Thursday, June 29 at 6 PM. This program is free and open to the public through the generosity of a grant from the Seekonk Cultural Council, a local agency that is

supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council. Register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events.

Man of La Mancha, the musical, is a play within a play where Miguel de Cervantes takes the role of “mad” knight, Don Quixote, as he and his fellow prisoners await their fate. Presenter Phil Campbell will offer anecdotes and back-stories of this masterpiece and play recorded selections so you can experience one of the most enduring works of musical theatre.

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

Bob Ross Painting Workshop

Saturday, July 8 at 1 PM

When you think of learning how to paint, what name is more famous than Bob Ross? Join us for a unique opportunity to learn to paint with a certified Bob Ross Technique instructor at the Seekonk Library on July 8 at 1 PM. Instructor Bob Weneck has been a Certified Instructor in the Bob Ross Technique since 2020. He enjoys teaching the “wet-on-wet technique” popularized by the Bob Ross TV series to help develop the artist inside of each of us! Painting materials are supplied. Participants must be prepared with old clothes that are ok getting paint on them and a positive “can do” attitude! Space is limited and a SAILS library card is required for registration. Register in the online Events Calendar beginning June 1 at www.seekonkpl.org/events.

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

Teen Summer Reading Bingo Challenge

The Teen Summer Reading Bingo Challenge at Seekonk Public Library has something for everyone! We’re challenging you not only to read, but to participate, engage, inspire, and create. Using the Beanstack App, you will choose how you want to log your reading—by counting minutes or by counting books. You’ll also record achievements such as attending library programs, practicing selfcare, and engaging with your community. Each accomplishment or milestone will fill a square on your Beanstack Bingo Card while also earning tickets toward raffle prize drawings. Meanwhile, you’re invited to a variety of in-person events, including games, STEAM activities, concerts, and an end-of-summer celebration just for teens!

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

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

June Programs for Children and Families

Nature Storytime with Yoga

Monday, June 12, 10 AM

Enjoy nature and movement stories followed by yoga in the Meadows with Carly Baumann from Sangha Yoga in New Bedford. Ages 2-6. Registration required. Please bring a yoga mat or towel and a water bottle. Coordinated by Seekonk Library and Jocelyn Carvalho from Pace Child Care Works. In the case of rain, the event will be held in the Meeting Room.

Children’s Summer Reading Challenge 2023. Find Your Voice!

June 14 - August 14, 2023

Children ages birth - entering 5th grade in the fall are invited to join us on a summer reading adventure! Log your reading minutes, complete great activities, write optional book reviews and earn virtual raffle tickets to use towards fantastic prizes! PLUS...every time you visit the library you will earn a paper raffle ticket towards special, in-library prizes! It’s easy to sign up and keep track of your reading time. Register at Seekonkpl.Beanstack.org or visit Seekonk Library for paper reading logs. Note: If you have participated in an online reading challenge in the past (summer, winter or 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten), you already have a Beanstack account! Simply log in and select this year’s challenge! For help registering, contact the library at childrens@seekonkpl.org.

Summer Kick-off Event with the Providence Drum Troupe

Wednesday, June 14, 6 PM

Adults, teens, children and families are invited to a special event to kick-off summer and the Summer Reading Challenge 2023! We’ll get the season started with an interactive performance with the Providence Drum Troupe. The Troupe will perform and also lead us through the Seekonk Meadows for a celebratory parade. The PDT brings light, music, energy, and joy everywhere they go. Join us to celebrate summer and while here, you can register for the Summer Reading Challenges for Kids, Teens, and Adults! (Registering for the summer reading program is not required to attend) Rain date, Thursday, June 15.

More Than a Story with RISPCA

Thursday, June 15, 10:30 AM

Join us for a visit with the RI Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals! A RISPCA Humane Educator will visit the library to spread awareness of humane education topics and share all about the work the RISPCA does to help animals in our community. The program consists of a song, a story, and a craft...and a special visit with a shelter pet for you to meet. The RISPCA will also provide informational handouts for any parents and guardians who would like to know more about the topics discussed. All ages.

Find Your Voice! With Julie Stepanek

Friday, June 16 at 11 AM

Join singer Julie Stepanek for an all-ages participatory music program featuring vocal warmups, chants, call & responses and singable songs from around the world. In addition to singing, there will be shakers and scarves for younger children (or for anyone who would like one!). Celebrate the beginning of summer with this special Summer Reading Kick-Off event! Registration required.Everyone is invited to bring a picnic lunch and linger in the Meadows after

the program. This program is supported in part by a grant from the Seekonk Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.

Karaoke Party!

Wednesday, June 21, 2 PM

“Find Your Voice” and sing to the music! Kids, their friends and families are invited to a Karaoke Party as we “find our voice” and use it to SING! With the library’s karaoke machine and a catalog of songs to choose from, everyone will have the opportunity to sing in a supportive atmosphere where everyone is a star! Sing solo, get a group together or even try a duet with a family member. We’ll even end with a group number where everyone can sing together. Sign up and let’s cheer for one another at a great afternoon of music and singing. For planning purposes, registration required (but drop-ins are welcome.)

Intro to Minecraft Education Edition

Tuesday, June 27, 6-7 PM (virtual)

It’s an introduction to Minecraft for kids in grades 1 & 2. We’ll be using Minecraft Education, and a username and password will be sent to you prior to the virtual event, along with a Zoom link. Children do need their own devices, such as a laptop or PC, to download and install Minecraft Education. A Switch or other gaming device will not work for this program. We’ll explore basic movement and building in Minecraft, as well as basic commands. Kids will then have access to the library’s Minecraft Education until July 28th, to continue their Minecraft adventure! Registration required.

Storigami!

Wednesday, June 28, 10 AM

What do we get when we combine origami with storytelling? Storigami! We’ll explore basic origami techniques as we tell stories about the creations we’ve made. It is fun to use your imagination as you see the shapes emerge and put them into a story. Then when you want to make the model again, the story will help to remind you of what to do next. (We’ll have lots of Origami books available to borrow if you’d like to continue your origami practice at home, so bring your SAILS library card!) For grades 2 - 5. Registration required.

Summer Storytimes in Seekonk Meadows

Fridays, June 23 - August 11 at 10 AM

Join Ms Sharon or Ms Sandie outdoors in the gazebo for a weekly summer storytime on Friday mornings at 10am! We’ll be reading stories, singing songs, blowing bubbles, and having all kinds of adventures! And if the weather doesn’t cooperate, we’ll move the program inside. Registration is not required, but please bring your SAILS library card so you can bring library books home! Please also bring a chair or blanket to sit on.

Rainy Day Family Movies at Seekonk Library

If it’s a rainy day, call the library or check the library’s FB pages to see if we’re showing a movie. If we are, everyone is invited to bring a beach chair or other comfy chair for a true summer time movie vibe! Movie titles and showing times will be announced the morning of. Movies are dependent on room availability.

News and Notes from Blanding Library

By Leslie Patterson

Honey Bees & Honey Tasting

June

13

Come to the Blanding on Tues. June 13 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. to learn all about honey and the bees that produce it. You’ll learn about the relationship between bees and flowers, how bees make honey, honey flavor profiles, pairings and ways to use honey. Best of all, we’ll have a honey tasting to learn how different sources affect honey’s flavor! Registration required. Please call the library at (508) 252-4236 to reserve your spot!

Book Sale forChildren

June 6 – June 10

(or until the books are gone)

Gently used books for children of all ages. Visit during library hrs $4.00/bag (bring your own or grab one here) Adults must be accompanied by a child.

Sponsored by The Friends of the Blanding Library

Blanding Public Library, 124 Bay State Rd., Rehoboth, MA 508-252-4236

Seekonk High School Seniors Named South Coast Conference Academic All-Stars

High School, Old Rochester Regional High School, Seekonk High School, Somerset Berkley Regional High School and Wareham High School.

Sarah

DeMelo

DeMelo is a passionate student who has devoted her high school years to numerous clubs, sports and leadership positions at the school. She is an executive board member of the National Honor Society, a member of the Portuguese Honor Society, and holds leadership positions on the Student Council, Yearbook Club and Portuguese Club.

She’s also a three-season athlete with several varsity letters and pins. She’s the captain of the girl’s tennis team and was named a tennis MVP and South Coast Conference (SCC) All-Star Player.

Seekonk -- Superintendent Rich Drolet and Principal William Whalen are pleased to announce that Seekonk High School seniors were recognized last week for being named South Coast Conference Academic All-Stars.

On Friday, May 12, Seekonk High School honored seniors Sydnie Hoskins, Ella Garnder, Sarah DeMelo, Ava Lyon and Ashly Gasior for being named South Coast Conference Academic All-Stars during a

ceremony at the high school. National Honor Society Advisor Deanna Marinucci was on hand to provide a biography for each student during the ceremony.

As part of the ceremony, Principal Whalen gave each student a certificate of recognition and remarks were shared by Whalen and Superintendent Drolet.

“On behalf of the district, I would like to recognize and commend Sydnie, Ella, Sarah, Ava and Ashly for their stellar performances throughout their academic and extracurricular careers here at Seekonk High,” Superintendent Drolet said. “Each student has consistently challenged themselves academically and ingrained themselves into the greater high school community through clubs and sports. I’m pleased to see them recognized for their hard work and wish them all the best as they leave Seekonk and embark on their futures.”

Each year, South Coast Conference Schools recognize the top five students of the graduating class with the South Coast Conference Academic All-Star Award. Awarded students reflect each of the National Honor Society’s four pillars -- Service, Character, Scholarship and Citizenship -- and have also made a positive impact on their schools and community.

The South Coast Conference includes Apponequet Regional High School, Bourne High School, Joseph Case High School, Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School, Fairhaven High School, Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical

She was also the recipient of the Susan B. Anthony book award for her relentless commitment to social injustices, as displayed in her many Model UN conferences.

Outside of school, DeMelo continues to advance from her First Degree Black Belt and has earned over 100 hours of community service.

DeMelo plans to attend the University of New Hampshire’s School of Nursing in hopes of eventually pursuing a career in neuroscience and mental illness nurse practitioning.

Ella Gardner

Throughout her high school years, Gardner has exemplified her passion for learning and being a well-immersed student. She is a member of both the National Honor Society and Spanish Honor Society, serves on the executive boards for the Spanish Club and Unified Club, and was a co-captain of this year’s girls’ soccer team.

She was the recipient of the Saint Michael’s College Book Award for academic success and exemplary community service. She has accomplished 100 hours of community service with most of her hours coming from church involvement and babysitting.

Gardner will attend Penn State in the fall where she will be majoring in Health and Human Development.

Ashly Gasior

Throughout her years at Seekonk High School, Gasior has nurtured her academic curiosities and desires to give back to the community. Over the past four years, Gasior has been an active member of the Yearbook Club, Science Club, National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society and Math Team.

From left: Sydnie Hoskins, Ella Garnder, Sarah DeMelo, Ava Lyon and Ashly Gasior were named South Coast Conference Academic All-Stars. (Photo courtesy Seekonk Public Schools)

She has received numerous awards for her dedication to academics and her community, including the Brown University Book Award and the Outstanding Undergraduate Award.

Gasior has completed over 100 hours of community service, most of which was done at Miriam Hospital in the Patient Care Equipment Department.

Gasior has future plans to be a neurosurgeon. She will be attending the University of Connecticut in the Honors Program for Chemistry on the pre-med track in the fall.

Sydnie Hoskins

Hoskins has had an impressive high school career that has been recognized through numerous awards and recognitions. She has been part of the National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, Band and Key Club throughout her time at Seekonk High. While a member of the Key Club, she spearheaded a jean drive for homeless teens.

In addition to the clubs she’s a part of, Hoskins is a varsity athlete on the cross country, indoor track, and outdoor track teams. She has received several awards for her cross country performance, including the Cross Country Coaches Award and Cross Country SCC Sportsmanship Award, and was named to the Cross Country All-Star Team.

She has also received the George Eastman Young Leaders Award.

Outside of school, she has spent over 100 hours volunteering, spending a portion of her volunteer hours at a local hospital, and has worked at a local restaurant since her sophomore year.

She will be attending Boston College’s Connell School of Nursing, a prestigious program that only admits 100 students each year, and hopes to work in a neonatal intensive care unit.

Ava Lyon

Lyon has consistently pushed herself by taking eight Advanced Placement classes throughout her four years of high school. In addition to her rigorous course load, she also participated in several extracurricular activities.

Lyons is a member of the Student Council in addition to several other clubs. She is a member of the Spanish Honor Society and National Honor Society, for which she serves as a member of the executive board.

She has also been on the varsity soccer and tennis teams for the past three years and has been named a co-captain for the girls tennis team this year.

Lyons is the recipient of the Francis W. Gallishaw Memorial Scholarship and received the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute book award for outstanding academic achievement in the study of mathematics and science.

She has achieved over 100 hours of community service, with most of her hours coming from her time volunteering at The Miriam Hospital where she worked in the Patient Care Equipment Department.

Upon graduation, she will be attending Boston University’s Sargent College to study human physiology as one of 160 incoming class members on the pre-med track.

“Sydnie, Ella, Sarah, Ava and Ashly have continuously shined throughout their academics, extracurriculars and community service during their time at Seekonk High,” Principal Whalen said. “They have positioned themselves as model students within our community and I ask that you all join me in congratulating them on this accomplishment.”

Thursday June 8, 2023 @ 6pm

Seekonk High School Seniors Commit to Pursuing Educational Career Paths During Future Teacher

Signing Day Ceremony

Seekonk -- Superintendent Rich Drolet and Principal William Whalen are pleased to share that several Seekonk High School seniors have committed to pursuing an educational career path during today’s Future Teacher Signing Day Ceremony.

On Friday morning, May 12, six Seekonk High School seniors who plan to pursue careers in education gathered in the high school’s library to take part in the district’s second Future Teacher Signing Day ceremony.

At the ceremony, Deonna Aguiar committed to studying Early Childhood Education at Bridgewater State University; Danielle Boardman committed to studying Music Education at Bridgewater State University; Kevin Crowe committed to studying Physical Education at Rhode Island College; Sydney DelMastro committed to studying Secondary Education with a focus in English at Endicott College; Morgan Silvestre Elementary Education at Bridgewater State University; and Lauren Turenne committed to studying Special Education at the College of Charleston.

Back row from left: Danielle Boardman, Kevin Crowe and Lauren Turenne. Front row from left: Sydney DelMastro, Morgan Silvestre and Deonna Aguiar. (Courtesy Seekonk Public Schools)

Back row from left: Jay Azulay and Denise Turner. Front row from left: Kristina Dieringer, Keri Steitz and Denise Decaporale. (Courtesy SPS)

CELEBRATE THE SENIOR CLASS OF 2023!! See

1. GRADUATES ARE ENCOURAGED TO WEAR CAPS & GOWNS, THOUGH NOT REQUIRED!

2. PARENTS CAN DRIVE SO SENIORS CAN ENJOY THE PARADE & NOT WORRY ABOUT DRIVING!

3. STUDENTS MUST ADHERE TO SAFETY: WEAR SEAT BELTS, DO NOT RIDE IN TRUCK BEDS OR STAND IN VEHICLES WITH ROOF TOPS DOWN!

4. SENIORS FROM DIGHTON & REHOBOTH GO THROUGH ENTIRE PARADE TO BE HONORED BY BOTH TOWNS!

5. DECORATE CARS WITH BALLOONS, SIGNS, AND BANNERS!

6. COMMUNITY MEMBERS LINE THE PARADE ROUTE TO HONOR & CELEBRATE THE 2023 SENIOR CLASS! THE MORE THE MERRIER! CONGRATS TO OUR SENIORS!

Each student invited and recognized a teacher during the ceremony who had served as a mentor and inspired them to pursue an educational career path. These teachers included SHS Band Director/Music teacher John Smialek, Hurley Middle School science teacher Kristina Dieringer, high school physical education teacher and coach Jay Azulay, retired Hurley Middle School English teacher Denise Turner, Martin Elementary School first grade teacher Keri Steitz, and retired Seekonk fourth grade teacher Denise Decaporale.

“We are proud of our students and we hope this gave our future teachers the impression that going into teaching and coaching young people is a noble, exciting and rewarding career to choose,” Superintendent Drolet said. “I greatly look forward to seeing the impact these students will have in their future careers as educators and I advise them to look toward those who inspired them for inspiration.”

While signing ceremonies are common for college-bound student-athletes, Future Teacher Signing Day ceremonies celebrate students’ commitment to the field of education, highlight educators’ crucial work and inspiring others to become educators.

The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) encourages districts to host these events and Seekonk chose to hold this event during National Teacher Appreciation Week, May 8-12.

This ceremony marked the second time the district has held such an event. The first time this event was held was in 2019, but then it was canceled the past couple of years due to COVID-19.

At the event, remarks were given by Superintendent Drolet and Principal Whalen.

Superintendent Drolet would like to thank Assistant Superintendent for Teaching & Learning Zachary Waddicor, Principal Dr. Whalen, Seekonk High School Assistant Principal Matt Bosh and Seekonk High School Associate Principal for Instruction & Guidance Erica Thomas for embracing this idea and helping immensely.

The month of May has been a very busy time at Palmer River Elementary School. We began the month with a wonderful school-wide anti-bullying presentation from Brett Outchcunis. Different grade levels also enjoyed field trips to Roger Williams, Easton’s Natural Resource Trust’s Sheep Pasture, The Carpenter Museum, The Plimoutth Patuxet Museum, and the Biomes Marine Biology Center. Other grade levels enjoyed a visit from Barn Babies and storyteller Len Cabral. A special thanks to our PTSA for sponsoring all these wonderful experiences for our students to enjoy.

Our third-graders also enjoyed a visit from WBZ Meteorologist Jacob Wycoff. In addition to producing a live broadcast at Palmer River. He taught students about extreme weather and green screens. A special thanks to WBZ and Mrs. Kefor for coordinating this experience for our third-graders.

WBZ Meteorologist Jacob Wycoff Visits Palmer River River

On May 18, 2023, third grader students participated in a special program that included WBZ Meteorologist Jacob Wycoff visiting the school and teaching students about extreme weather and live news broadcasts.

Upon arriving at school, third graders unloaded from buses and headed directly to the gymnasium in an effort to make the 9:08am live news broadcast on Boston’s channel 4. Unfortunately, the camera operator was unable to maintain a steady signal with the news station in Boston, and students and staff were only on the air briefly with Mr. Wycoff.

During the presentation, students learned all about the science of Meteorology, and also heard about how Mr. Wycoff personally designs the presentation slides that he utilizes during his weather reports. Also of note, students learned how green screens work in television studios and got a behind the scenes peek at the WBZ television studio during his presentation. At the conclusion of the presentation, students asked lots of questions about extreme weather, and of course, posed for a group photo with the local news celebrity. It was a fun and memorable learning experience, and our third graders were very grateful for this opportunity!

Above photos: WBZ’s Jacob Wycoff with students at Palmer River.

Beckwith MS News SEMSBA

Congratulations to choral students Olivia Couto, Claire Kiselica, Madeleine Nystrom, and Anne Reed for representing Beckwith Middle School in the Junior SEMSBA Music Festival held on May 5th and 6th at Hanover High School. Under the direction of choral conductor, Mr. Christopher Landis and piano accompanist, Ms Sarah Troxler, the students rehearsed with other middle and high school vocalists from the Southeastern Massachusetts area to prepare a variety of musical selections. This two-day festival concluded with a concert that was enjoyed by family and friends.

MSBA Program - Dighton Rehoboth District Pursues New School

Dighton, Massachusetts - Superintendent Bill Runey, School Committee Chair Aaron Morse, and Board of Selectmen Chair Peter Caron are pleased to announce that the Dighton Rehoboth Regional School District has submitted a Statement of Interest (SOI) to the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) to address overcrowding and outdated facilities at Dighton Elementary School (DES).

Constructed in 1953, DES has experienced overcrowding and lacks updated safety and security equipment. Additionally, DES no longer provides a 21st Century learning environment to address the needs of all students in the realms of academics and socialemotional needs.

Submitting the SOI is the first step in a process that could lead to the rebuilding or renovation of DES. The MSBA will review the SOI and consider the District for eligibility to pursue funding for a feasibility study.

The feasibility study will explore options for addressing the overcrowding and updating the facilities at DES. A determination from the MSBA will not come until December.

Superintendent Bill Runey stated, “Although still very preliminary, we are excited to take this important first step to address the needs of our students and community. A renovated or rebuilt DES would provide our students with a modern, safe, and secure learning environment, and would be a tremendous asset to the community as a whole.”

School Committee Chair Aaron Morse, added, “Population projections show that this problem will only get worse in the future. It’s imperative that the District addresses these issues, and we hope the MSBA gives us fair consideration.”

PROJECT 351

Paxton Ramos was selected as Rehoboth’s eighth grade Ambassador of Project 351. Project 351 is a non-profit youth-led movement for change powered by an eighth grader unsung hero representing every city and town in Massachusetts. He is one of 368 changemakers who lead Spring Service, a statewide campaign in support of Cradles to Crayons, an organization providing children from birth through age 12, living in homeless or low-income situations, with the essential items they need to thrive. Paxton led a clothing drive at Beckwith Middle School. His efforts helped to end clothing insecurity by providing everyday essentials. This year’s Spring Service was the largest youth-led service initiative in Massachusetts.

Board of Selectmen Chair Peter Caron added, “We look forward to working with the MSBA and the Dighton Rehoboth Regional School District to explore options for DES. This is an important investment in our community, and we are committed to ensuring that our students have access to the best possible learning environment.”

For more information, please contact Superintendent Bill Runey at the Dighton Rehoboth Regional School District; bruney@drregional.org or 508.252.5000 ext. 5134.

Teachers Wanted!

Teddy Bear Learning & Daycare Center in Seekonk MA. Preschool looking for full time EEC certified teacher; Contact Michelle at 508-336-2244 or teddybearlearning2023@gmail.com.

Twin Oaks Farm & Learning Center: Teachers needed for our Infant, Toddler, Preschool, and Kindergarten rooms. Must have a DEEC certification for Teacher or above. Full time with benefits. We have so many children waiting for placement and need teachers to expand our classrooms. We are a small school offering children "A BETTER BEGINNING" in an enriched environment. We have been a school since 1994, and continue to set standards in our industry through our curriculum and teachers. Come be part of our team of educators. Call 1-508-252-5522 to set up an interview with Ana Neves the Director.

Beckwith students at the Junior SEMSBA Music Festival

Ambassador Paxton Ramos

Rehoboth Council on Aging

Francis Hall

27 Francis Farm Road, Rehoboth

Phone 508-252-3372

Fax 508-252-4716

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

Fridays 8:00am to Noon

The COA will be closed

Monday, June 19th

Our Kitchen is back!!!

We welcome Chef Chico Charbonneau. Chico will be cooking Lunch on Monday’s for Gert’s Café, Breakfast & Lunch on Wednesdays, & Breakfast on Fridays.

Join Our Walking Club

Mon-Wed- Fri @ 10:00

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

Un-Masquerade Ball

Tuesday June 13th 4:00-7:00 PM

In collaboration with the Taunton COA Rehoboth Senior Center

Francis Hall Pavilion

Food is by Deavila’s Music and Photo Booth by Sean Green Tickets are $10.00 each Stop in to purchase your ticket We look forward to seeing you there. Bring a mask so we can un-mask together

• We have added a Paper Crafting Class and a Jewelry Making. We can always use extra supplies. Scrapbooking, Cricut Supplies, die cuts, embossing folders, Jewelry making supplies.

• We are in need of cotton, flannel, and fleece fabric for sewing projects.We are accepting yarn donations for hats & blankets

ACTIVITIES

Mondays

9:00-11:00 Cribbage

9:00 Walking Club

10:00 Bocce

10:00 Cornhole Toss

Noon Gert’s Café

~ Limited seating ~ $3.00 Please call to reserve a seat 508-252-3372

Tuesdays

9:00 Zumba $3.00

10:00-Noon Jewelry Making Class $5.00

10:00 Combined Toga - Chair or Mat in Arcade Bldg

10:00 Cornhole Toss

10:00 Ladies Sewing & Quilting

1:00 Hi-Lo Jack

1:00- 3:00 Crafty Fun Classes

Wednesdays

8:30 - 10:00 Breakfast (NEW)

9:00 Walking Club

10:00 Bocce

10:00 Cornhole Toss

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

Noon Lunch (NEW)

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

Thursday

9:00 Tai Chi

10:00 Knitting & Crochet get together (Bring any project you are working on)

12:00 Drums Alive $3.00

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

1:00-3:00 Watercolor Class $5.00

Friday

8:30 - 10:00 Breakfast (NEW)

9:00 Walking Club

10:00 Bocce

10:00 Cornhole Toss

10:00 Jenga

Social Services Department

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

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

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

discounts toward your electric bill

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

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

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

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

Rehoboth Public Health Nurse

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

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

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

• Wellness Clinic Wednesday

• Podiatry Clinic: Last Thursday of the month

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

Meals on Wheels

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

Rehoboth Council on Aging

A Municipal Department of the Town Mission:

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

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

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

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

• Can connect to their peers and community

• Can foster inter-generational relationships and shared activities

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

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

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

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

The Rehoboth Council on Aging shall:

a. Provide, coordinate and link available resources to help meet

the needs of the Town of Rehoboth’s elders.

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

Rehoboth Senior Citizens Club News

On May 17th, the Rehoboth Senior Citizens Club met for their monthly meeting in the Arcade building on the Francis Farm Rd. complex. There were 17 members in attendance. We had a guest speaker this month who was none other than Geri Hamel, our Town Nurse.

Geri’s special information and packet focused on the health and wellness resources that are available for Rehoboth Seniors. Thank you, Geri, for bringing this specifically needed information to us.

If there are seniors out there who missed the meeting, the information is available at Geri’s office in the white farmhouse, or with the officers and members of RSCC.

Also at the meeting, after business was discussed, it was announced that club members and their guests will be going to lunch at LePage’s Seafood Restaurant in Fall River, in lieu of a regular meeting, on June 15 at 12 noon. All members and their guests are welcome to attend. We will leave from the Senior Center at 11:15 A.M. by car caravan and return to the senior center after lunch.

PLEASE sign up with Donna Howard at the Monday or Wednesday lunches or call 508-252-6281 to reserve your spot(s). We look forward to seeing you there!

There will be NO meetings scheduled for July and August, so come join the fun at lunch at LePage’s in June. Then we will have our September meeting on THURSDAY, September 21st in the Arcade Building on the Senior Center grounds.

Just so you know, we are planning our Fall Bazaar in October, a 90+ Birthday Party in November, and a Christmas Party in December. Our committee members are working hard to plan wonderful events.

Next May will be our Senior Citizens Club’s 50th Anniversary, so watch for information around Town and at the Senior Center for that celebration.

More information and calendar of events and/or flyers will be available soon!

Donna Howard, President Rehoboth Senior Citizens Club

Seekonk Human Services

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

Retirement Advisors at Financial Square

Wed, June 7, 2023 at 11:30am

Cassandra with Retirement Advisors at Financial Square is hosting an Educational Discovery Seminar regarding “Taxes in Retirement. This will be a complimentary event for all who attend. The CEO, Greg Lavelle, has been helping educate Schools, Senior Centers, City/Town Halls, MA Council on Aging and Libraries on Retirement Planning, Taxes in Retirement as well as Long Term Care. All participants will be entered for a gift card raffle! Preregistration is required by calling our office at 508-336-8772.

The Highwaymen -

Songs & Stories with Matt York

Wed, June 14, 2023 at 1:00pm

Longtime New England musician/author Matt York will perform the songs of Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson and Waylon Jennings and tell stories of their careers. The four songwriting legends joined forces in the 1980’s to form the country supergroup The Highwaymen. However, prior to that, they’d each established themselves as stars and their careers intersected many times since the 1960’s. Matt York was recently nominated for the Boston Music Award for Best Country Artist and his album Gently Used was just named one of the Patriot Ledger’s best albums of 2022. *This program is supported by a grant from the

Seekonk Cultural Council. Preregistration is required by calling our office at 508-3368772.

Healthy Aging

Lunch & Learn

Wed, June 21, 2023 at 11:30am

Dawn DiMarco, Nutritionist will be here from Bristol Elder Services to talk about “Benefits of Buying/Eating Local Food” for healthy aging! She will discuss components of a the benefits of buying and eating local food. For all who attend this program there will be a roasted beef tenderloin, mashed potatoes w/ gravy, steamed asparagus, and garlic bread luncheon. Preregistration for all activities are required by calling our office at 508-336-8772.

4th of July Celebration

Music by Steve Burke

Wed, June 28, 2023 @ 11:30am

Join us for an afternoon of entertainment, fun and a lunch. Steve Burke, RI musician is a one man band that plays the keyboard, sax, smooth jazz vocals and dances. Lunch will be American Chop Suey. Resident $4, Non–Residents $6.00 Preregistration is required by calling 508-336-8772.

Tuesday Luncheons

Tues at 11:45am

Seekonk Human Services has partnered with The Cook’s House to offer weekly lunches! Lunches will cost $4 for residents and $5 for non residents. The menu will be available at the office and on Facebook. Advance sign up is required one week in advanced with payment.

1st Annual Men’s Barbecue

Wed, July 26th at noon

Join us for our barbecue party honoring Seekonk men age of 65 and older

Hosted by Seekonk Human Services

540 Arcade Avenue

Sponsored by Friends of Friends

Catered by The Cooks House

R.S.V.P. to: 508-336-8772 By Monday, July 17, 2023

“Canasta”

Mondays @ 11:30am

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

Podiatry Clinic

Wed, June 7th 10:00am - 2:30pm

Dr. Lechan provides monthly Podiatry Clinics. An appointment is required. Items needed are insurance cards with your pri-

mary doctor’s name, date of last doctor’s visit, summary of last visit, and list of medications. *Please check with your insurance regarding co-pays.

Blood Pressure & Glucose Clinic

Wed, June 14th 9:00am - 11:00am

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

New Activity - Tribal Grooves

Wed, June 14, 2023 @ 11:00am

Instructor is Cheryl Sulyma-Masson

Tribal Grooves is an exercise technique created by Paulette Rees Denis. Certified Teachers in the technique use Global Caravan Belly dance moves in a choreography to raise a sweat while having fun. Participants will learn choreography with moves that thy can than take home and use in their daily exercise practice. Rather than focusing on specific move technique Tribal Grooves uses this dance flow to make exercising and fitness fun. No previous experience is required for the class. Preregistration is required by calling our office at 508-336-8772.

Hearing Clinic

Tuesday, June 20th 1:30 - 3:00pm

Preregistration is required for this clinic. Chris Brissette from Mass Audiology will be here for the Hearing Clinic from 1:30pm - 3:00pm. Please call our office at 508336-8772

Let’s Learn Together!

Tuesday, June 27, 2023 @ 2:00pm

Getting Started with Android Phones & Tablets

**This session is for novice users of Android phones and tablets ONLY. No other devices will be covered.** Do you feel like you can barely turn on your Android phone or tablet and are afraid to really use it? Join Librarian Michelle Gario in this 90 minute session to review the basic information to get started that should have been in a manual! Bring your own Android tablet or phone; please make sure your device is fully charged. Contact the Seekonk Human Services to preregister for this at: 508-336-8772.

Women’s Lunch

Wed, June 21, 2023 @ 11:30am

IHOP in East Providence

The Women’s lunch group meets every 3rd Wednesday of the month at 11:30am. Everything is Dutch treat. If you are interested in joining for good food and good conversation, while supporting our local

restaurants, please call Seekonk Human Services at 508-336-8772.

Future Activities

More information to come

Ukulele Bill

Wed, July 12, 2023 @ 1:00pm

Seekonk’s very own Bill Whiteley will be here to play his Ukulele. Come join us for this musical entertainment! This is sure to be a good time enjoyed by all!

FCP Live-In - Kevin Williams

Tues, July 18, 2023 at 11:00am

FCP Live-In has over twenty-five years experience as a live-in caregiver provider. FCP Live-In provides the perfect, affordable solution for live-in home care services and is unique in that they provide 1-on-1 care with live-in caregivers for clients all over the North East. All their caregivers are nurse’s aides, home health aides, and personal care aides with at least two years of professional experience. They help their clients go home and remain in the safety, security and comfort of home. They are committed to providing a unique and customized in-home care assistance approach to senior care, with a lifestyle that offers enjoyment to the ones in they care and families with peace of mind. Your loved one remains at home in the safety and comfort of familiar surroundings with all the treasures they hold near and dear to their hearts. While FCP live-in preserves their independence, reduces the risk of injury, and maintains your loved one’s need for privacy and dignity.

Creative Wellness - A Collage Workshop

Wed, July 19, 2023 at 1:00pm

Sit back and enjoy hearing a variety of tips and techniques around the benefits of creativity for emotional wellness, as we kick off this engaging presentation. Next - handson exploration of image and word collaging to relax and recharge. Each attendee will create their own scrapbook style board as Maria shares well-being insight and levity. This program is targeted to the adult community who are interested in nurturing their wellbeing, enjoy discovery in creative outlets, as well as meeting up and connecting with others. *This program is generously provided by a grant by the Seekonk Cultural Council.

Overview of Legal Services

Mon, July 24, 2023 10am - 12pm

(15 min appt only)

Brandon Walecka, Esq., LL.M from Walecka Law will be providing office hours by appointment. The mini-consultations will center around elder law topics such as probate, questions regarding making a will (other power of attorney, health care proxy, etc.) , trusts (irrevocable and revocable), Medicaid/MassHealth rules and eligibility,

tax planning, and special needs planning. These consults are focused on elder law and estate planning. Please call the office at 508-336-8772. MA residents only.

Computer Stations

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

Library Homebound Delivery

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

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

Sharps Disposal

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

Activities and Programs

Mondays

Chair Yoga 10am

Bocce 11am

Canasta 11:30am

Strength & Cardio 1pm

Zoom BINGO 1:30pm

Tuesdays

Drums Alive 9am

Horseshoes 11am

Hi Lo Jack 1pm

Wednesdays

Drums Alive 9:30am

Tribal Grooves 11:00am

Cornhole 11am

Mahjong 1pm

Thursdays

Chair Yoga 10am

Hi Lo Jack 1pm

BINGO 1pm

Fridays

Dance Cardio 9:15am

Tai Chi 10:30am

*All activities are subject to pre-registration Community Questions for our Police Liaison

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

Email List

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

Nutritional Meals To Go

Tues / Wed / Thurs

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

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Veteran’s Corner Veterans Affairs Caregiver Program

The V.A.’s Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers, which provides a monthly stipend to qualified full-time caregivers of seriously ill or injured veterans, is open to veterans who served prior to 1975 or after 2001. Over 35,000 families are currently enrolled in the program. Caregivers assist the veteran’s health and well-being, everyday personal needs (like feeding, bathing and dressing) as well as safety, protection or instruction in their daily living environment.

The veteran can appoint:

1 Primary Family Caregiver (the main caregiver), and up to 2 Secondary Family Caregivers (people who serve as backup support to the primary caregiver when needed)

Eligible Primary and Secondary Family Caregivers can receive:

• Caregiver education and training

• Mental health counseling

• Travel, lodging, and financial assistance when traveling with the veteran to receive care

Eligible Primary Family Caregivers may also receive:

• A monthly stipend (payment)

• Access to health care benefits through the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA)—if you don’t already qualify for care or services under another health care plan Learn more about CHAMPVA

• At least 30 days per year of respite care for the veteran

You may be eligible if you and the veteran you’re caring for meet all of these requirements.

Eligibility requirements for the family caregiver

• You must be at least 18 years old. And at least 1 of these must be true for you:

• You’re a spouse, son, daughter, parent, stepfamily member, or extended family meer of the veteran, or

• You live full time with the veteran, or you’re willing to live full time with the veteran if we designate you as a family caregiver

Eligibility requirements for the veteran. All of these must be true for the veteran you’re caring for:

• The veteran has a V.A. disability rating (individual or combined) of 70% or higher, and

• The veteran was discharged from the U.S. military or has a date of medical discharge, and

• The veteran needs at least 6 months of continuous, in-person personal care services

The veteran must be enrolled in the V.A. program in order to take advantage. Applying for V.A. healthcare and the caregiver program may be done online (va.gov), directly through the V.A. or by contacting your local Veterans Services Officer or National Service Officer for assistance.

James LaFlame

Seekonk Veterans Services Officer

Office 508-336-2940

Email: jlaflame@seekonk-ma.gov

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

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

Friends of Friends Community Services Celebrated its 30th Silver Tea Anniversary on May 3, 2023!

Everyone who attended enjoyed their special day. Thank you to Young’s Catering in Seekonk for preparing & serving the luncheon, to BJ’s in Seekonk for the beautifully decorated cake, TV9 for some photos & interviews with the ladies which will be shown on cable 9, & to Human Services for sponsoring the event at the Seekonk Senior Center.

A special thank you to Town Administrator Mr. Shawn Cadime & his Assistant Carol Day for stopping by to congratulate & talk to everyone.

492 Winthrop Street, Suite 5, Rehoboth, MA 02769

Tel: 774-901-2677 • Fax: 774-901-2678

Massachusetts Consumer Protection Laws

General Laws Chapter 93A, the Massachusetts Consumer Protection Act, is a state-specific consumer protection law used in a wide range of circumstances – either as a supplement to contract or tort claims or as an independent cause of action. The law provides for actions to be brought by the Commonwealth’s Attorney General’s Office or by individual residents. The statute specifically enables the Attorney General, private consumers and businesses to take legal action against unfair or deceptive conduct in the commercial marketplace. Also known as the “Consumer Protection Act,” Chapter 93A protects and defends consumers and prohibits a business or individual from taking part in deceptive, devious, or unfair acts or practices when engaged in their trade or within commerce.

• Some examples of unfair or deceptive acts include but are not limited to:

• Failing to disclose information about a product or service that would affect a consumer’s decision to buy it;

• Failing to honor a warranty or guarantee;

• Refusing to provide a refund or exchange for a defective product;

• Charging more than the advertised price for a product or service;

• Failing to provide adequate customer service;

• Using bait and switch tactics;

• Falsely advertising a product or service, misrepresenting its quality, characteristics or price.

Typically a claim under Chapter 93A is initiated by writing a demand letter outlining the claim and injuries prior to the filing of litigation, which gives the offending party an ability to respond and potentially settle the outstanding issue. This claim must be made within four (4) years of suffering the injury alleged or the date of the deceptive act. In some cases it may be necessary or helpful to make a complaint directly to the Attorney General’s Office. The Attorney General’s Office has a consumer advocacy and response division which can help with common issues including defective products, car sales, debt collection, auto repossession, business closures, home improvement contracts and others. While the Attorney General’s Office sometimes brings lawsuits on behalf of the Commonwealth to enforce consumer protection laws in the public interest generally, the Office does not represent individual consumers and cannot provide you with legal advice or act as your attorney.

The consequences of violating Chapter 93A can be serious, and may allow for an award of double or treble (3x) damages plus attorneys’ fees to a successful litigant who can prove that the unfair or deceptive act or practice caused them harm. Certain violations of other laws, including but not limited to those concerning landlords and tenants, lead paint, home improvement contractor, debt collections or unfair insurance claims handling practices, can be considered automatic violations of Chapter 93A. If you have any questions concerning your individual legal rights or responsibilities, have been faced with predatory business practices, or are facing a Chapter 93A claim yourself, please contact our office.

Support Our Local Farms & Gardens

Kave Rock Alpaca Farm

J & L Landscape & Garden Center

363 Taunton Ave. Seekonk, MA 02771

Available for Delivery & Pickup

• Lite Pine • Dark Pine

• Prize Hemlock • Black Forest • Deluxe Red

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

• Processed Gravel • Screened Loam

• Screened Compost • Playground Mulch

• Mason Sand • Cobblestone, all sizes

AnnuAls, PerenniAls, shrubs & Trees

Bagged Goods:

• Top Soil • Composted / Dehydrated

Cow Manure Tree & Shrub Mix

• Hemlock Mulch • Cedar Mulch

• Red Mulch • Pine Mulch

Hours: Mon-Sat 8:00-5:00, Sun 8:00-4:00 • 508-399-8947

Kave Rock Alpaca Farm is located on the scenic Rehoboth Reservoir. Alpacas are curious animals and interact with visitors of all ages. We are expecting to have 3 newborn cria born on the farm at the end of June! We specialize in fine quality alpaca fiber products made in the USA. Products can be purchased at the farm, online or locations listed under ‘Events’ on our website. Alpaca ‘beans’ are odorless, considered a cold manure and can be placed directly on plants and vegetables.

Beans are available at the farm - pre-packaged or by the bucket. Visitors are welcome for free most Sundays between 12-4. Closings are listed on the website and social media pages.

Contact Dave & Karen Medeiros for more information at 401465-7589. www.kaverockalpaca.com

Souza Family Farm

When you visit Souza Family farm you are greeted by Val, Jen, Isabelle, Kathy, Ann, or Zach. They are always happy, helpful, and welcoming. Nothing keeps them from the greenhouses where they grow a wide arrangement of flowering plants, vegetable plants, hangers and herbs. The greenhouses are open to the public until Father’s Day. Stop on by to see what is ready and what is growing!!

The farm stand will open on Father’s Day when the crops will be ready to harvest. Their large variety of vegetables in-season includes: 40 varieties of tomatoes, zucchini, summer squash, winter squash, peppers, onions, cucumbers, pickling cukes, cauliflower, broccoli, large variety of beans, blueberries, corn, lettuces and more! They will have more and more vegetables as the season changes.

They do supplement our produce from local sources. If they don’t grow it, you’ll know it! Farmer’s Market coupons at the Farm Stand as well as SNAP/HIP are accepted.

Kave Rock Alpaca Farm

Karen on the Farm

Bryan W. Shepherd

Bryan W. Shepherd, 87, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 20th surrounded by his loving family. He was the beloved husband of Eleanor L. (Main) Shepherd for sixty-four beautiful years. Born in Providence, he was the son of the late Henry “Harry” Shepherd and Hilda (Wild) Shepherd.

Bryan and his wife established Pine Acres Kennel at their home in Seekonk through which they bred and showed Irish Setters during the 1960’s and 70’s. Bryan was especially proud of his favorite show dog, “Red”, Celou’s Irish Prince McCrory, who won numerous AKC

Professionally, Bryan worked throughout his life in the paint manufacturing industry. He was a founding partner and President of New England Paint, Manufacturing, Company in Central Falls, Rhode Island, a business he enjoyed for nearly thirty years. He continued to serve longtime, local customers until he retired at the end of 2022.

One of Bryan’s biggest passions was his love for the outdoors. He spent extensive time at the family home on Moosehead Lake in Maine where he enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating, snowmobiling and jet skiing throughout his life.

Most importantly, Bryan thoroughly enjoyed his close relationships with family and friends. He was known for his sense of humor, fond nicknames, and quirky sayings.

Besides his wife, he is survived by two loving daughters, Susan Libutti and her husband Raymond, of Warwick and Staci Quarry and her husband, Ernest, of Smithfield; two siblings, Gail Walsh of Centerville, MA and John “Wesley” Shepherd of Pawtucket and numerous nieces, nephews and dear friends. He was the brother of the late Henry “Roy” Shepherd, Marsha Poole and Arnold “Lee” Shepherd.

His funeral was held on Wednesday, May 24th, which began with VISITATION at 4:00 p.m. and concluded with SERVICES at 7:00 p.m. in WILLIAM W. TRIPP Funeral Home, 1008 Newport Avenue, Pawtucket. Interment in Seekonk Cemetery, Newman Avenue, was private. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 245 Waterman Street, Suite 306, Providence, Rhode Island 02906. Online condolences at TRIPPFUNERALHOME.com

Robert G. Pearson

Robert G. Pearson of Rehoboth, MA passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 93. He often expressed how much he missed his wife Pat, who passed last May. They were married 68 years.

Robert, “Bob” was born November 27, 1929 to Howard and Clara Pearson. Growing up during the Great Depression, he quickly learned how to fabricate his own vehicles i.e. bicycles, beach buggies, race cars, and anything else he desired. He was well known for his intelligence and ability to build just about anything. Perfection was always his goal.

Bob was an Army veteran and was stationed in Paris during the Korean War. At 25, he married Patricia Phillips. He recently reminisced about how beautiful his bride was. Together, they made a loving home in Rehoboth with their children. He was an electrician and worked at Otis Elevator.

Bob and Pat enjoyed wintering in Florida after an early retirement. His hobbies included decoy carving, RC airplanes, auto racing, and traveling. His love of horses was passed on to his children.

Mr. Pearson is survived by two daughters and their spouses, Carol Pearson and Julie Rood; Susan and Rick Harris; three grandchildren: Lianne Raquel, and Robert, and two great grandchildren, Bryce and Amelia.

There was a celebration of life at Benjamin’s restaurant located at the Ramada Inn Seekonk, MA on June 3rd from 2-5pm.

Michael S. Sladen

Sandra M. Reis Fala Português

Daniel A. Laneres

Bryan W. Shepherd awards including Best in Show in New York.

Robert G. Pearson

Christopher Eric Titcomb

Christopher Eric Titcomb, 44, of Rehoboth, Massachusetts passed away May 19th, 2023, after a short but determined battle with cancer. Chris earned a Master’s Degree in Physical Therapy from Sacred Heart University in 2001. In 2015 he established Personal Best Physical Therapy with offices in Rehoboth and Norfolk, MA where he fulfilled his lifelong ambition to help others heal through one-onone treatment. Chris was able to make personal connections with each person he met, treated all with kindness, and genuinely cared for everyone he knew.

Chris loved the water. He was a natural sailor who raced catamarans across North America. In more recent years, Chris made the most of his time on the water with his own power boats and could be found amongst a crowd at harbors in Narragansett Bay where all were welcome to raft up, share a story, a drink, and a beautiful summer afternoon. On any given day Chris could be found running along the streets of Rehoboth. He completed 6 marathons including Boston, Providence, and Newport. Chris also gave back to his community by volunteering his time and talents as a board member for Greenlock Therapeutic Riding Center.

Chris adored his family above all else. He is survived by his wife, Katie and two daughters, Hailey (9) and Sarah (6). He shared with them his passion for boating, skiing, sport, and adventure. Chris is also survived by his father Neil Titcomb of Branford, CT and his brother Nate Titcomb (Joy) of Bristol, RI. He was preceded in death by his mother Carol (2021).

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you consider a donation to Greenlock Therapeutic Riding Center in Rehoboth, MA or the American Cancer Society.

A celebration of life will be held on June 4, 2023 at Pivotal Brewing Company 500 Wood Street, Bldg 111, Bristol, RI 02809, at 5:00 pm. All adults who knew Chris are invited to attend.

James Leo Violette

zona home. Jim was a cabinet maker and long haul truck driver, most recently employed customizing cabinetry in campers.

Jim graduated from Dighton-Rehoboth High School in 1975 and served his country for four years in the U.S. Marine Corps. His favorite pastime was panning for gold in the desert.

He is survived by five siblings, Larry, Dennis, Josh, Betty, and Jeff, along with six nieces and nephews.

Death Notices

Rehoboth

• Anna P. Ferreira, 60, of Rehoboth, passed away on Monday, April 24, 2023 at Rhode Island Hospital.

• Cheryl Byrne (White) of Rehoboth, formerly of Foxborough and Canton passed away April 25th after a long, hard fought health battle.

• Robert G. Pearson of Rehoboth, MA passed away on April 13, 2023 peacefully in his sleep at the age of 93.

Seekonk

• Donald Pearson Kinniburgh, 76, of Seekonk, MA passed away Friday, April 21, 2023.

• Jacob “Jake” DeRosa, 35, passed away on Tuesday April 25, 2023, peacefully after an 18-month illness, with his parents by his side.

• Richard A. Goff, 80, of Woodward Avenue, Seekonk, MA, died peacefully at home on May 2, 2023 surrounded by his loving family.

• James W. Urquhart (83) of Seekonk, MA, passed away after a brief illness on May 6, 2023, surrounded by his loving family.

• Mitchell L. Krzyzek Sr., 74, passed away Wednesday May 10, 2023.

• Patrick M. Hannan, 51, of Seekonk died unexpectedly at home on Wednesday, May 17th 2023.

• Bryan W. Shepherd, 87, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 20th surrounded by his loving family.

James Leo Violette

Born December 18, 1956 to Benjamin and Rita (Laughlin) Violette of Rehoboth, Massachusetts, James Leo Violette passed away May 9, 2023 in his Wickenburg, Ari-

Christopher Titcomb

Rehoboth American Legion Post 302 Memorial Day Parade

Rehoboth Ramblings

by Leslie Patterson

The Busy and Buzzy World of the Hive

Have you ever thought of all the work that goes into a jar of honey? There’s a reason we call bees “busy”. For example, making one pound of honey requires the work of around 60,000 bees visiting two million flowers! This is just one of many fascinating facts that Prof. Jim DeTerra of Bristol Community College explored in his talk “The Mighty Honey Bee” at the Blanding Library in May. A master beekeeper, Jim also brought a small portable hive of bees for his listeners to examine.

Here are some bee facts: Bees can flap their wings 240 times a second, much faster than hummingbirds. No wonder that there’s a lot of buzzing going on. The average colony has 30,000 to 60,000 bees. There is only one queen in a colony and she lays all the eggs, as many as 1,500 a day. The other bees feed and clean her. Queens live 3 to 5 years. When she can no longer lay eggs, the colony gets rid of her and find another. The male bees are drones and they die when they mate with the queen. The worker bees are all female and they live about 8 weeks in the summer.

The bees’ highly sensitive antennae are a vital part of their anatomy and help the bee sense a variety of signals to navigate their world. Did you know that bees can be trained to sniff out explosive material and possibly human illnesses such as cancer? Their sense of smell is 10 times more powerful than those other super-sniffers, dogs. Bees also have five eyes and see colors in somewhat similar way than we do with some exceptions. Red looks black to them.

You may have heard of the bees’ most remarkable behavior, the waggle dance. Bees can’t talk but they communicate very effectively through “dancing”. A bee’s particular wiggling movements tell other bees in the colony about the location of a nearby flower source, its direction and distance away from the hive, and the quality of the flowers/nectar. They use the sun for navigation. This is all rather complicated but you can find much more about the waggle dance on the web.

My first thought was that these bees are much better at spatial relationships than I am and that the bees evolved this sophisticated behavior about 100 million years before humans invented GPS. The more you know about the animal kingdom the more you wonder why we ever use the phrase “dumb animals”. Anyone wanting to know more about animals’ amazing abilities will want to read “An Immense World: How Animal Senses Reveal the Hidden World Around Us” by Ed Yong, available at the library.

first European colonists] is the most common pollinator, making it the most important bee to domestic agriculture. About one-third of the food eaten by Americans comes from crops pollinated by honey bees, including apples, melons, cranberries, pumpkins, squash, broccoli, and almonds, to name just a few. Without the industrious honey bee, American dinner plates would look quite bare.”

So yes, the honey bee has an extremely important role to play in our world, and any threat to them such as disease and habitat loss is not to be taken lightly. Only a few people would probably want to actually take up beekeeping, and it’s true that those with severe allergies to bee stings must avoid them. But there’s an easy and pleasant way to help our busy and buzzing little friends. Prof. DeTerra said, “You don’t have to become a beekeeper. Just plant flowers!”

The other remarkable and vital thing about bees is their importance to pollination. After Prof. DeTerra’s talk, I looked up more Artist

information on bees and found the FDA’s “Helping Agriculture’s Helpful Honey Bees”. They say: “But the greatest importance of honey bees to agriculture isn’t a product of the hive at all. It’s their work as crop pollinators. This agricultural benefit of honey bees is estimated to be between 10 and 20 times the total value of honey and beeswax. In fact, bee pollination accounts for about $15 billion in added crop value. Honey bees are like flying dollar bills buzzing over U.S. crops.”

The FDA continues, “Today, the commercial production of more than 90 crops relies on bee pollination. Of the approximately 3,600 bee species that live in the U.S., the European honey bee [the honey bee actually came over to America with the

Scouting Around Town

Rehoboth-Seekonk Girl Scouts at the Memorial Day Parade

Rehoboth Girl Scout Troop 507

To join Girl Scouts, go to GSSNE.org!

Troop 494 News

Rehoboth Girl Scout Troop 507 planted a tree at Palmer River Elementary School for their take action project and Arbor Day.

Rehoboth Cadette Girl Scout Troop 494 completed a community service project for the Blanding Library by planting a dogwood tree to thank them for all of their support of the Rehoboth and Seekonk Service Unit.

Cadette Noelle Blais Working on Silver Award

Rehoboth and Seekonk Girl Scout Troop 338

My name is Noelle Blais and I am an eighth grader at Beckwith Middle. I am a Cadette in Rehoboth Girl Scout Troop 494 and am currently working on my Silver Award. This award entails 50 hours of hard work and something sustainable for the community. My project is called the Rehoboth Pet Pantry; a take and leave shed filled with all pet supplies for people in need. This will be outside of the animal shelter where anyone can donate or take anything at any time! Some of the donated items include pet food, toys, collars, leashes, treats, or really anything! My Bingo Night to raise donations was a huge success, which you can see from the image above. The Dighton-Rehoboth High School CTE program is constructing the actual pantry, which I will be painting and adding shelves to in order to have a community opening in the middle of the summer. Email with any questions or donations! rehobothpetpantry@gmail.com

Rehoboth and Seekonk Girl Scout Troop 338 completed their first year as a troop and celebrated with a Girl Scout bridging ceremony!

Cadette Noelle Blais

Kingscote, Hunter House to Open May 30

Newport, R.I. – The two oldest houses owned by The Preservation Society of Newport County – one sporting a new exterior paint job that is more historically accurate, the other offering a new interpretation of its long history – will open daily for tours starting Tuesday, May 30.

Kingscote was built in 1839-1841 and expanded in the 1880s by the King family, which made its fortune in the China Trade. Recent paint analysis commissioned by the Preservation Society revealed the house’s color at the time of the expansion, which is interpreted as its period of historical significance. The color, which was applied to the house this spring, is a grayish brown, darker than the “battleship gray” the house had worn for the past several decades.

The house is noted for its Gothic Revival style, intricate interior woodwork, dining room wall made of opalescent Tiffany glass blocks, and mementos of the King family’s time in the China Trade.

Tours of Kingscote are self-guided; admission is by the One-Property, Duo, Trio or Access Pass ticket, or free with membership in the Preservation Society.

Hunter House, built circa 1748 on Newport’s waterfront as the residence of a wealthy merchant family, is one of the most significant of the city’s many colonial houses. During the Revolutionary War, it was used as the headquarters of Admiral de Ternay, commander of the French fleet, when French forces occupied Newport in 1780. It passed through many owners before 1945, when the Preservation Society was formed to purchase and restore it.

Recent research into documents such as probate records and newspaper advertisements revealed information about the enslaved people of African descent who lived and worked at Hunter House. In 2022, the Preservation Society introduced a new guide-led tour that tells visitors about these almost-forgotten people along with the wealthy merchants who owned the house.

The Northeast Parlor of Hunter House appeared in HBO’s “The Gilded Age,” written by Julian Fellowes of “Downton Abbey” fame, as the office of lawyer Tom Raikes.

Mohegan Seal Coating

From May 30 through July 30, guide-led tours will be offered six times per day at Hunter House. A special timed ticket is required and advance purchase is recommended through www.newportmansions.org/tickets. Preservation Society members are admitted for free but must make a reservation by logging in at www.NewportMansions.org or by contacting our Membership staff at (401) 847-1000, ext. 111.

The Preservation Society of Newport County, Rhode Island, is a nonprofit organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. It is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the area’s historic architecture, landscapes, decorative arts and social history. Its 11 historic properties – seven of them National Historic Landmarks – span more than 250 years of American architectural and social development. For more information, please visit www. NewportMansions.org.

Hunter House

2023 Newport Classical Music Festival - 26 Concerts from July 4-23 at 12 Storied Venues in Newport, RI

• Performances by Kelli O’Hara, Hélène Grimaud, Anthony McGill, Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra, The Knights, Simone Dinnerstein, Cantus, Aizuri String Quartet, Hermitage Piano Trio

• Opera Night at The Breakers featuring Così fan tutte

• World Premiere of The Gilded Cage by Curtis Stewart Commissioned by Newport Classical

• Historic Venues include The Breakers, The Elms, Castle Hill Inn, Chinese Tea House, and more

• Tickets on Sale at www.newportclassical. org/music-festival

Newport, RI – The 2023 Newport Classical Music Festival will present twenty-six concerts this summer between July 4-23, 2023, bringing timeless music for today to Newport’s stunning historic mansions and venues including The Breakers, Blithewold Mansion, The Elms, Castle Hill Inn, Chinese Tea House, King Park, Norman Bird Sanctuary, Redwood Library & Athenæum, and more. Tickets will go on sale on April 3, 2023 at www.newportclassical.org/musicfestival or by calling the Box Office at 401849-1133 x1.

Highlights of the 2023 Newport Classical Music Festival include performances by Broadway and opera star Kelli O’Hara (currently starring in HBO’s The Gilded Age, filmed in Newport); Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra; The Knights; renowned pianists Hélène Grimaud, Simone Dinnerstein, and Charlie Albright; New York Philharmonic principal clarinetist Anthony McGill in a return performance with pianist Anna Polonsky; riveting low-voice acapella ensemble Cantus; celebrated chamber ensembles including the Hermitage Piano Trio, Aizuri String Quartet, Excelsis Percussion Quartet, Sinta Saxophone Quartet, and Fenway Quintet; acclaimed cellists Zlatomir Fung and Amit Peled; charismatic Norwegian violinist Eldbjørg Hemsing; and the world premiere of The Gilded Cage, a new work commissioned by Newport Classical from three-time GRAMMY®-nominated violinist/ composer Curtis Stewart. Other highlights include the festival’s popular Opera Night at The Breakers featuring Così fan tutte in a bold new un-staged production, Sunrise Meditations concerts, a concert inspired by nature at Norman Bird Sanctuary, a free Fourth of July concert at King Park, and this year’s young professional Newport Classical Festival Artists in nine performances throughout the festival.

Seekonk Softball Opening Day

Photos Courtesy of Jennifer Pavlovich Photography

RYBSA Opening Day

Photos Courtesy of Maré Photography

Food & Dining Guide

Fresh Summer Flavors Fit for the Patio

(Family Features) Gatherings in the summer sun are all about easy, convenient recipes combined with the joy warm weather brings. Spend those special occasions with those you love most and make this summer one to remember with flatbreads, sliders and sweet treats for all to share.

Keeping cooking simple means more time on the patio or in the backyard engaging with guests, and these Chipotle Chicken Flatbreads, Chicken Shawarma Sliders and Lemon Cheesecake with Fruit let home chefs skip complicated kitchen duties without skimping on flavor.

Visit Culinary.net to find more simple summer recipes to share with loved ones.

Summery Flatbreads for Family and Friends

When dining outdoors with family, friends and neighbors, there are few things better than a tasty dish the whole family can enjoy like these Chipotle Chicken Flatbreads.

Perfect for al fresco entertaining when served alongside a fresh salad, they’re simple to make and allow guests to personalize with preferred toppings before popping in the oven. As a colorful and fresh dish, it’s an ideal meal for get-togethers on the patio.

For more summer recipe ideas, visit Culinary.net.

Chipotle Chicken Flatbreads Recipe from butteryourbiscuit.com

• 2 flatbreads

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 clove garlic, diced

• 4 chicken tenders, cooked and cubed

• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, quartered

• salt, to taste

• pepper, to taste

• 1/2 cup ranch dressing

• 1 1/2 teaspoons chipotle seasoning

• 2 tablespoons cilantro leaves, chopped

Directions:

• Preheat oven to 375 F.

• Place parchment paper on baking sheet and add flatbreads. Sprinkle cheese on flatbreads. Top with garlic, chicken and tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Bake 16 minutes until cheese is melted.

• In small bowl, mix ranch and chipotle seasoning.

• Drizzle ranch dressing on flatbreads and sprinkle with cilantro leaves.

Shareable Sliders for a Nutritious Summer Meal

Fresh, mouthwatering foods hot off the grill are a sure sign of summer fun. Hosting sunny get-togethers this year can be made easy when you show off your grilling skills with a simple, nutritious and flavorful recipe.

These Chicken Shawarma Sliders are a delicious example of how to grill healthy summer meals without forgoing favorite flavors. They’re part of a curated 12-recipe collection of healthy, balanced dishes from the snacking experts at family-owned Fresh Cravings, known for its chilled salsas, hummus and other dips, which teamed up with eMeals, America’s leading provider of meal plans.

“These sliders are a fantastic – and healthy – option for your next gathering,” said eMeals Senior Nutrition Writer and Editor Racontinued on next page...

chel West, RD. “The marinade uses a mix of pantry-friendly dried herbs and fresh garlic to give the lean grilled chicken breast some oomph. The lettuce and red onion add cool crispness and crunch to the sandwiches while Fresh Cravings’ creamy, flavor-packed hummus gets some nutritional bonus points by providing a dose of protein and fiber.”

Find the entire recipe collection by visiting emeals.com

Chicken Shawarma Sliders

Recipe courtesy of eMeals Registered Dietitian Rachel West Prep: 25 minutes ~ Cook: 10 minutes

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 tablespoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 tablespoon ground cumin

• 1/2 tablespoon ground coriander

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

• 1 package (12) slider buns

Delivery to all Rehoboth & Seekonk homes!

• 1 container (17 ounces) Fresh Cravings Honey Jalapeno Hummus

• 1 package (8 ounces) shredded lettuce

• 1/2 small red onion, sliced

Directions:

508.336.0116

We are open

• In zip-top plastic bag, use meat mallet or heel of hand to pound chicken to even thickness. Cut into 2-inch pieces and place in large bowl. Add oil, garlic, paprika, cumin, coriander, salt and cayenne; toss.

• Cover chicken and chill 8 hours, or up to 2 days.

Order online: bit.ly/rhop-order

• Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill chicken 4-5 minutes per side, or until done.

Sun to Thurs: 11am - 9pm Friday: 11am - 10pm Saturday 11am - 10pm

• Serve chicken on buns with hummus, lettuce and onion.

503 Winthrop St., Rt 44 Indian Hills Plaza, Rehoboth MA

Unforgettable Fruity Flavor

Summertime often brings cravings for fresh fruits that add a hint of sweetness to warm-weather gatherings. Serving up a delicious dessert for family and guests starts with favorite produce in this Lemon Cheesecake with Fruit.

www.RehobothHouseofPizza.com

The touch of tangy tartness is enough to bring loved ones to the dessert table even after a filling meal as fresh lemon juice in the cheesecake base is complemented perfectly when topped with orange slices and raspberries. Garnished with mint leaves, this brightly colored treat is even sweeter when shared with loved ones.

Find more sweet summer desserts at Culinary.net.

Lemon Cheesecake with Fruit

Servings: 6-8

• 1 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs

• 1/4 cup sugar

• 1/4 cup butter, melted

• 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened

• 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk

• 3 eggs

• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 orange, peeled and separated

• 8 raspberries

• 3 mint leaves, for garnish

Directions

• Preheat oven to 350 F.

• In medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar and melted butter. Press firmly into 9-inch springform pan.

• In large bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy. Gradually beat in sweetened condensed milk until smooth. Add eggs, fresh lemon juice and vanilla extract; mix until combined.

• Pour into pan. Bake 50-55 minutes, or until center springs back when lightly pressed.

• Chill in refrigerator until completely cooled. Arrange orange slices around border of cake and place raspberries in middle. Top with mint leaves.

Your dream DESTINATION WEDDING awaits on Tybee Island, GA

Audubon Society of Rhode iSlAnd

Bats, Bees and Birds…Summer is Here!

June 2023 Highlights

Start your summer off right – in the great outdoors! Join Audubon for a nature walk on the first day of summer, head out at night with a naturalist in search of bats, or explore habitats across the state in an Audubon birding program!

Unless noted, registration is required for all programs. Register online and view a complete listing of programs through the events calendar at www.asri.org/calendar.

2023 US Fish and Wildlife Service’s Jr. Duck Stamp ContestWinning Artwork Exhibit

June 3 – 23, 2023;10:00 am – 3:00 pm

The USFW Junior Duck Stamp Contest encourages students in grades K-12 to engage in conservation education, use their creative talents, and submit their artwork in an annual contest. The 2023 contest winners showing waterfowl and their habitats will be on display at the Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium in June.

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, 1401 Hope Street, Bristol, RI; Free with Admission. Ages: All.

Wednesday Morning Bird Walks

June 7, 14, 21, 28, 2023; 9;00 – 11:00 am

Audubon offers small-group Wednesday Morning Bird Walks with naturalist Laura Carberry. Each week a new birding destination will be chosen. Advance registration is required. Location will be sent to registered participants in advance.

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

Birding Connecticut Hot Spots: Van Trip

June 8, 2023; 7:30 am – 5:00 pm

Join Audubon and explore a large diversity of habitats in nearby Connecticut — forest roads, open fields, a fish hatchery, ponds, and more. How many species can be found? In the past, Cerulean Warblers and Sedge Wrens have been seen. Audubon volunteer Don Heitzmann will lead a day of birding and exploration. Bring lunch, water, snacks, and binoculars. Trip will be cancelled in case of bad weather.

Departs from Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge, 12 Sanderson Road, Smithfield, RI; Program Fee: $64 members, $80 non-members. Ages: Teen to Adult. Register through the events calendar at asri.org/calendar.

Bat Walk at Powder Mill Ledges

June 9, 2023; 7:30 – 9:00 pm

Come learn all about the little brown bat, a species that lives seasonally on Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge. An Audubon naturalist will guide this late spring walk through the trails in search of bats flying over the field and at the pond. A wonderful program for families with children over the age of 10. Please dress for the weather, wear sturdy shoes/boots, bring bug spray and a flashlight.

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

Birds and Brunch at Caratunk

June 10, 2023; 8:00-9:30 am

Come to the Caratunk Wildlife Refuge and enjoy a summer morning of birdwatching. See the swallows soar and listen as the birds sing their beautiful songs across the variety of habitats that the refuge has to offer. Light pastries and coffee will be provided. Dress appropriately for the weather; trails may be muddy at times, so wear shoes that can get a bit dirty! Binoculars available to borrow.

Caratunk Wildlife Refuge, 301 Brown Avenue, Seekonk, MA; Fee: $15/Member Adult, $10/Member Child, $20/Non-member Adult / $15/Non-member Child. Ages: 12 and up. Register through the events calendar at asri.org/calendar.

Paper Crafting for World Ocean Day

June 10, 2023;1:00 – 3:00 pm

Join an ocean-themed card making workshop with Michelle Hirsh-Solis. Create cards perfect for World Ocean Day or for giving as a gift. Designs use a variety of techniques. Materials are provided and all skill levels welcome. Come alone or bring along a friend to de-stress, learn a new hobby, or re-kindle an old passion.

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, 1401 Hope Street, Bristol, RI; Fee: $15/member; $20/non-member. Ages: 12 and up. Register through the events calendar at asri.org/calendar.

continued next page...

Bats at Eppley

June 16, 2023; 8:00 – 9:30 pm

Join us for a rare treat to visit the Audubon Marion Eppley Refuge at night. We will begin indoors for a presentation about bats and then venture outside in search of the plentiful resident bats. Bring a flashlight, bug spray, and dress for a cool night.

Marion Eppley Wildlife Refuge, Dugway Bridge Road, West Kingston, RI; Fee: $10/member; $14/non-member. Ages: Teen to Adult. Register through the events calendar at asri.org/calendar.

Osprey Walk and Talk in Providence

June 17, 2023; 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

Join Audubon naturalist Lincoln Dark at India Point Park for an Osprey “walk and talk” along the Seekonk River in Providence. Observe Ospreys soaring through the air and foraging in the river and hear about the changes in distribution and abundance of Osprey nests in Rhode Island. Come learn what you can do to help Ospreys in our communities. Bring your binoculars, a water bottle, and wear comfortable walking shoes.

India Point Park, Providence, RI; Fee: $10/member; $14/nonmember. Ages: 16 and up. Register through the events calendar at asri.org/calendar.

Rewilding Your Landscape

June 17, 2023;2:00 – 3:00 pm

Join Audubon staff for a presentation on how to take an ecosystem approach to your garden. Learn how to transform part of your yard into a haven for pollinators. Discover how to attract birds through careful plant selection and maintenance strategies.

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, 1401 Hope Street, Bristol, RI; Fee: $10/member adult, $5/member child; $14/non-member

adult, $7/non-member child. Ages: 12 and up. Register through the events calendar at asri.org/calendar.

For a full transcript of this Press Release, go to www.reportertoday.com.

First Day of Summer: Wild Plant Walk

June 21, 2023; 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

Join Audubon naturalist Kim Calcagno for a leisurely summer solstice walk focusing on wild plant I.D. Search for lady slippers and other summer bloomers and learn about other plants that live in the forest. Dress for the weather, wear sturdy shoes, bug spray and a water bottle.

Fort Nature Refuge, (Rt. 5), 1443 Providence Pike, North Smithfield, RI; Fee: $10/member; $14/non-member. Ages: 10 and up. Register through the events calendar at asri.org/calendar.

Ice Cream and Lightning Bugs

June 23, 2023; 7:30-9:30 pm

Just as it starts to get dark, the lightning bugs appear. Come make a delicious ice cream sundae and learn all about what makes these insects so special. A naturalist will lead a hike to look for their flickering lights. If you are lucky, a resident beaver might be spotted along the way. Fun for the whole family! Please bring a flashlight.

Fisherville Brook Wildlife Refuge, 99 Pardon Joslin Road, Exeter, RI; Fee: $12 member adult/ $6 member child; $18 nonmember adult/ $9 nonmember child. Ages: 5 and up. Register through the events calendar at asri.org/calendar.

Bird Banding in Bristol

June 24, 2023; 9:15 – 11:15 am

Come to Audubon and experience bird banding, where experts capture, band, measure, and release songbirds in order to record their movements. Birds will be gently removed from tall “mist nets” set in the shrubby habitats on the grounds of the Nature Center and Aquarium. The techniques of identifying, measuring, weighing, and banding the birds will be demonstrated before they are released. The migratory habits and life history of each captured species will be discussed.

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, 1401 Hope Street, Bristol, RI; Fee: $10/member adult, $5/member child; $14/non-member adult, $7/non-member child. Ages: 6 and up. Register through the events calendar at asri.org/calendar.

Eco-Printing Workshop

June 25, 2023; 1:00 – 2:00 pm

Join Audubon naturalist and herbalist Tina Lidano and learn how to use plants to make prints on fabric in this eco-printing workshop. This class will discuss how different plants affect a variety of fabrics and the mordants that are used to help the dying process. All materials for this class will be provided by Audubon, but if you have unbleached cotton, undyed silk, or plant-based scrap fabric - you are welcome to bring it along!

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

Purple Martins!

June 29, 2023; 6:30 – 8:00 pm

Purple Martins are fascinating! Enjoy a presentation on these amazing birds and a short walk to the field habitat to observe the resident Purple Martins as they roost in their gourd-shaped birdhouses. Other flying foragers like swallows and swifts are likely to be spotted as well. If we are lucky, bats and owls may make an appearance! Please dress for the weather and bring bug spray. Binoculars can be borrowed if you do not have a pair. This program will be postponed if there is rain or unusual cold.

YARD SALE

Garage Sale: 94 Lakeside Street Riverside, RI. Saturday June 24, 10-2PM. 2 Family yard sale. Furniture, antiques, miscellaneous items. Everything must go.

HELP WANTED

Help Wanted: Dairy Farm, Part time, call John 508-336-5796.

Wanted: Teenage boy or girl to help with yardwork. $10/hour in Riverside. 401-433-2922.

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

Caregiver needed for disabled woman. Experienced. Saturdays 12-4PM. Sundays 11-3PM. Flexible Hours. $22.00 per hour. BCI required. Paid thru Agency. Barrington 401-289-0127

FOR SALE

Large supply of saltwater fishing gear for sale! Call 401-4389155, East Providence.

Ladders, wide variety of tools, new 30 in. white electric range for sale. Call 508-252-5838 Rehoboth.

WANTED

WANTED: looking for flower vases, please donate. Call Debbie at 401-632-3602.

Seekonk Flea Market at Seekonk Speedway. Buyers and Vendors wanted every Sunday 7AM – 1PM from March 26th thru December 3rd 2023. Call Linda at 401-263-5737.

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

HOME & GARDEN

Plants for sale: Perennials, annuals, Euonymus bushes, Angel Trumpets, Coleus, succulents, fig trees & tomato plants. Free small plant with visit, prices from $3-$20. Call 401-433-2922.

LESSONS/CLASSES

Backyard Swim Lessons. Experienced instructor travels to you! SplishSplashAquatics.vp.web.com, SplishSplashAquatics@gmail. com, Peggy 401-434-2432.

SEEKING COMPANION

Mature male seeks female companion for movies, dining out, friendship, etc. Call 401-434-9087.

HALL RENTAL

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

NEW HAMPSHIRE VACATION RENTAL

CUSTOM LOG CABIN IN Sugar Hill, Franconia, White Mountains, NH. Pearl Lake Rd. Minutes from attractions, Pearl Lake

and Polly’s Pancake house. Sleeps 6, fireplace, swimming, hiking, fishing, boating, kayaks or just R&R. Booking now for Summer getaways: Weekly or weekends. Call Joe at 401-439-8089 for information and pictures.

GENERAL SERVICES

Certified Mediumship: Reverend Lynn Kent CM; Extensive web site info www.lynnkent.com.

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

GSS Property Solutions LLC. Repairs/Maintenance/Handyman. Fully Insured & Bonded. Registered in. Mass & RI. Call: 401-6889749. Email: gsspropertysolutions072@gmail.com

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

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

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

● Experience in general construction work, including remodeling

● Must have your own tools & transportation

● 24 - 28 hours per week

● Veterans welcome

● Pay based on experience and workmanship

Must be able to communicate in English