August 2020 Seekonk Reporter by The Reporter

The Seekonk

Reporter

AUGUST 2020 Volume 32, no. 8

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

Seekonk Athletes Win Big in Food Drive for Doorways see page 18

Support Your Hometown Farms & Restaurants see pages 46 & 65

Photo by Earle S Dias Photography

2 The Reporter August 2020

August 2020 The Reporter

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4 The Reporter August 2020

Please Note:

• Letters to the Editor MUST be signed and contain a phone number! • Letters to the Editor MUST arrive by the 23rd of the month! • We will withhold any letters of an accusatory Nature until the accused person has a chance to respond in the same issue!

Email: news@rehobothreporter.com

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Inside This Issue Business Directory....................68 Church News..............................38 Classifieds...............................67 Club Announcements.................28 Events.......................................25

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!

Love for Seekonk

Seekonk is my home now, but it hasn’t always been. Growing up my life was centralized on the South End of Fall River, that was until I attended school in Providence. I ended up studying at Johnson and Wales University, recently graduating with a B.A. in Media and Communication Studies. Having only moved to Seekonk months ago, I find myself attempting to engage with the community in whatever way I can. For obvious reasons life has been at a standstill, but thankfully receiving the Seekonk Reporter Monthly has allowed for the seamless introduction to local shops and restaurants I can support and appreciate, especially during these uncertain times. As I live in North Seekonk, my daily commute is about a half hour. While driving down Central Ave., Newman Ave., and Arcade, I find myself reflecting often, feeling gratitude for all that I am privileged to have. Seekonk has provided me with a place I can comfortably and confidently call home. Here in Seekonk, there is no shortage of community. Although the kinds of engagement that take place within the community have changed, the importance has not. Whether it be the several social distancing walks around Gammino Pond, or through Caratunk Wildlife Refuge, or connecting with local farmers and buying fresh produce at Walker St. Organic Farms, life in Seekonk is safely enjoying the simple things. In the coming months, I’m excited to continue to explore the endless opportunities this town seems to be offering me. From picking my own blueberries at Osamequin Farms to exploring more local shops and trying fresh chowder from Dicky’s for the first time, I anticipate a sweet end to the summer. And it’s all thanks to you, Seekonk. Be grateful. Shop local. Be kind. Jacquelyn Lussier

Food & Dining.............................62 Letters to the Editor.......................4 Local Farms...............................46 Library......................................

Blanding.......................45

Seekonk......................40

Obituaries................................59 People.................................31 Rehoboth COA...........................50 Rehoboth Ramblings.................39 Rehoboth Town News................9 Restaurant Guide.......................65 Scouts...................................58 School News...............................54 Seekonk Human Services..........47 Seekonk Town News...................17 State House................................66

Thank You for Your Courage

We are writing in regard to a letter to the editor in the last Rehoboth Reporter by Chris Andrade about his experiences with racism as a child growing up in the area and as an adult raising kids of his own. We wanted to say thank for you for a beautiful letter that aimed to enlighten people about the often invisible but insidious effects of racism. We did not grow up here but have lived in Rehoboth for nearly 7 years. We are grateful to live in a town with neighbors like Mr. Andrade, who are obviously kind, ethical, and committed to social justice. We hope other residents heard him and appreciated his non-accusatory but honest descriptions of his experience and will take his message to heart. The fight against racism is going to take all us to be successful. It will also take the type of courage Mr. Andrade displayed by submitting his heartfelt letter to us all. So, thank you and know that there are many of us in solidarity with you. Sincerely, Gail Sahar and Jean-Luc Solère Rehoboth

I Stand in Solidarity

I am writing to thank Chris Andrade for his thoughtful and eye-opening letter sharing his experiences with racism in our community and schools. Your message opened my mind and heart to the privileges of indifference and silence that I have benefited as a white member of our town and society. I want to stand in solidarity with Mr. Andrade in his desire and hope for a community that listens and feels empathy towards its neighbors. Mr. Andrade ends his message by saying that although things have improved, “our work is not finished.” I hope that this message can be a call to action for us to come together against racism for more open and honest communication and listening within our schools, classrooms and community forums to bring racism out of the shadows and challenge it with our united voices and collective will. Sincerely, Lisa Sirois

August 2020 The Reporter

Gratitude and Admiration for Your Bravery

I would like to express my deep gratitude to and admiration for Chris Andrade’s brave letter in July’s Reporter on “Racism.” His letter courageously relates his painful experience growing up in a rural mostly-white town in so-called progressive Massachusetts. It must not have been easy to write this. His letter calls on us white residents to seriously reflect on our interactions with people of color and demands that we examine our past and present beliefs about race and our behaviors towards those who are non-white. His letter challenges all of us to do better. When any of us commits a racist act, utters a racist sentiment, or treats people of color as inferior or less deserving, we must be accountable and reflect on how we could improve in changing how we think and act. Thank you, Chris Andrade! Sincerely, Renee Shield Seekonk, MA

Thank You RYBSA for Making It Possible in 2020

Like many of you I enjoy the game of baseball and look forward to the start of a fresh new season each year. The COVID-19 pandemic has certainly disrupted team sports around the world—as we all know. Leading through these unprecedented times has truly been overwhelming for volunteer run leagues attempting to plan and organize a safe season. So challenging, in fact, several communities in MA and across the country have cancelled spring/summer sports all together. Sadly, many league age 12-year-old boys and girls will miss out on what many view as the pinnacle of their little league experience. Countless 5 through 11-year-olds will have to wish for next year. I would like to recognize the tireless hard work of RYBSA board members and volunteers in making the 2020 season a reality. Their commitment to cause, due diligence and standards of excellence have made it possible for boys and girls of this community to be part of a team and take to the field once again. The great Babe Ruth once said, “never allow the fear of striking out to keep you from playing the game”. The temptation to give up is a common one, and nobody is exempt. Facing an unprecedented set of challenges, The RYBSA board and team of volunteers stepped up to the plate in a big way and they made it happen. Thank you Joel Lynch – Rehoboth Resident

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Thoughts on the Withdrawal of K-8 by Rehoboth from the Regional School System

By Robert P. Gagnon, Chairman Rehoboth Citizens for Responsible Government rehobothcrg@outlook.com or on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/RehobothCitizens At a recent Rehoboth Board of Selectman meeting it was mentioned that Rehoboth has a problem. We need to plan for a large town meeting of 1000+ people, no small task in the age of corona virus. Why such a large meeting? Chairman Skip Vadnais went on to explain there is a warrant article on the agenda asking if the voters would approve a K-8 withdrawal from the Dighton Rehoboth Regional School District. What does that mean? Does that mean we are totally dissolving the Regional District? Are we going to have to build a new High school? Doesn’t Dighton have to approve our actions also? The answer to all these questions is a simple no. Why? Because our current Regional Agreement when it was written provided for just such a contingency (Section 9 on page 9). What a withdrawal of K-8 does is return “local control” of their respective K-8 back to their individual towns should a town desire to exercise that option. Rehoboth, not the District would then be solely responsible for their K-8. Withdrawing K-8 still leaves the Dighton Rehoboth Regional District intact at the High School level, there is no need to build our own High School. What does “local control” actually mean for our K-8? It means that every penny we put into our new K-8 budget goes directly to the children and benefits families in Rehoboth. We would no longer need to contend with the competing priorities of what is good for Dighton as well. Continued on next page...

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

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

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

6 The Reporter August 2020 I understand that people will have many questions of about how it will impact their unique situations. It was not my intention to address them all here, that would be impossible. The best answers will come from our Town officials, the Board of Selectman, our Finance Committee. I encourage you to inform yourself at every opportunity thru watching our Board of Selectman, Finance Committee meetings and, the School Committee meetings. Hopefully we can have a fact-based civil discussion that address the concerns of all our citizens. I think you find this issue will resonate differently with people as we have a diverse population in Rehoboth. Some will see this solely as a financial issue, e.g. “What’s the bottom line”? Others will see this as a way to address grievances and improve what we have over the current K-8 school system. Still others will see this as a way to have their vote counted once again. After all we went to 3 record size Town Meetings last year over the School District Assessment. Only to have our votes ignored and then threatened with a 2 Town “tent” meeting to try and override our votes by enlisting people from Dighton to vote against us. Finally, in the end the State ended up assuming Financial control of our District. In summary I see this as not just a question about withdrawing K-8 but rather about what kind of future do you want the Town Rehoboth to have? Because the alternative narrative is the District is given even more control. They have been working on a new Regional Agreement that would do just that, by removing the language allowing us to assume local control of our K-8 and forever intertwine the fates of our two communities. Right now, we still have a choice, attend the Town Meeting and vote your conscience. By Robert P. Gagnon

Rehoboth Town Meeting 2020 Warrant Article

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To see if the town will approve the withdrawal of K-8 grades from the DightonRehoboth Regional School District in accordance with section IV of the regional agreement, and to direct the board of selectmen to take all relative action hereto. We must withdraw K-8 from our present K-12 regional school district. Why, because we have lost control of our schools due primarily to the takeover by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education commonly known as DESE. Another big factor is in a regional district we have to contend with the other town’s school committee. We have 5 members and Dighton has 5 members, 7 is a majority vote and invariably all 5 Dighton members vote as a block against Rehoboth. And even a bigger problem for a long time, 2 or more Rehoboth members vote along with Dighton!!!!! DESE by state laws has assumed the power to usurp our local control. These laws have been approved by the majority of our state senators and representatives. Our own history: DESE developed a new statutory budgeting formula which allows the least wealthiest town in a regional district to select the budgeting formula which has cost Continued on page 8...

August 2020 The Reporter

8 The Reporter August 2020 Rehoboth millions of dollars since 2014. Previously, for years, they used the Alternative Method, an equitable formula. Rehoboth has no say! The least wealthy town is based on personal wealth and property valuations. DESE allows our regional school committee to nullify our town meeting votes. THREE times last year. DESE declared we had to have a â&#x20AC;&#x153;TENTâ&#x20AC;? meeting because our school committee refused to accept our town meeting votes. A tent meeting would have included Dighton! Again Dighton residents could vote to deny us. DESE declared they were going to set a 1/12 budget at $45,000,000 which they did. No consideration, no input from anyone, no discussion, this was several hundred thousand MORE than even our school committee was asking!

We can withdraw from the existing K-12 regional agreement because the regional agreement states we can. Several years ago a joint committee attempted to revise our regional agreement. It failed because thankfully it was voted down by Rehoboth because Dighton wanted to eliminate the K-8 withdrawal clause. As you can see a regional district is a terrible arrangement. DESE recommends that the thing to do is to find more towns to join our regional district. As you can see any town that is aware of the consequences would never enter a regional district unless they were the least wealthiest town. . The residents of Rehoboth who signed the petition to withdraw have been researching this dilemma for several years and we have come to this conclusion, WE must WITHDRAW FROM K-8. It is essential that We get OUR CONTROLL BACK. We will have our own control of a Standalone K-8 Rehoboth School System. Remember when we find out the date of the 2020 Town meeting, we must be there in order to get our control BACK!!!!!! It is our right but only if we use it! PLEASE VOTE TO WITHDRAW K-8!!!!!!! It REQUIRES a 2/3 vote. Hope to see you there! Thanks, Jay Crandall a signatory to the petition to WITHDRAW K-8

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On July 6th, the Governor signed new legislation - An Act relative to voting options in response to COVID-19. This legislation outlines 3 options for voting in the fall 2020 elections –

August 2020 The Reporter

vote by Mail (or) Vote Early “In-Person” (or) vote “In-Person” on Election Day

Rehoboth Town News •

VOTE BY MAIL

All registered voters qualify to vote by mail in the fall 2020 elections. Application post cards were mailed to ALL registered voters by the Secretary of the Commonwealth, at their mailing address, who have not already applied to receive a vote by mail ballot as follows:

From the Town Clerk

Primary

Presidential

Hello All ~ I hope you are enjoying your Approximate date of post card application mailing July 15th September 14th summer! A friendly reminder, real estate taxes were due Monday, August 3, 2020. You may Mailed to all voters registered by & voters without July 1st September 1st process your tax payment online @ https:// an application already processed by www.invoicecloud.com/rehobothma, drop VERY IMPORTANT - APPLY EARLY - to allow ample time for them off at town hall in the outside drop box IMPORTANTyour - APPLY EARLY -and to allow time forservices processing to your application and application for ample the postal deliver (24/7), or mail to Cheryl Gouveia Treasurer/VERYprocessing for theyour postal ballot servicesto to deliver yourback ballot to you and back to us for processing. Ifare youconare concerned you and to us for processing. If you Tax Collector via US Post Office ~ thank you. about applying early -applying please note too that voters hold on to their that ballotvoters and return it during cernedtoo about earlycan - please note can holdthe week Laura Schwall If dropping off in the outside drop box, please prior to thetoelection. Best way to return return your ballot the is to week drop off at Town Hallelection. (148 Peck Street) their ballot and it during prior to the make sure you put your invoice and payment in a sealed envelopein the on drop box outside of Town Hall. Any voter that has returned a vote by mail ballot (or voted early Best way to return your ballot is to drop off at Town Hall (148 Peck to the attention of Cheryl Gouveia, Treasurer/Tax Collector. Thank“in-person”) cannot vote on Election Day. Street) in the drop box outside of Town Hall. Any voter that has You. returned vote by ballot is(or votedonearly Applications can beareturned by mail Mail (postage pre-paid the post“in-person”) card applicationcannot mailed to you by vote on Election Day. placed in the drop box outside of the town offices (148 Peck St) the Secretary of the Commonwealth), or scanned Applications & emailed to TownClerk@RehobothMA.gov We must have your handwritten can be returned by Mail .(postage is pre-paid on thesignature application returned/voted ballot envelope. Please sure you selected party ballot card and application mailed to you by themake Secretary of the your ComOn July 6th, the Governor signed new legislation - An Act relativeon yourpost the September 1, 2020 State Primary. monwealth), placed in the drop box outside of the town offices (148 to voting options in response to COVID-19. This legislation outlinesif voting Peck St)APPLICATION or scanned &AND emailed to TownClerk@RehobothMA.gov . 3 options for voting in the fall 2020 elections – TRACK YOUR BALLOT We must have your handwritten signature on your application and Vote by Mail (or) Vote Early “In-Person” (or) Vote “In-Person” Votersreturned/voted who have applied forballot a vote by mail ballot may use this link: sure you selected envelope. Please make on Election Day http://www.sec.state.ma.us/wheredoivotema//track/trackmyballot.aspx your party ballot if voting the September 1, 2020 State Primary.

Fall 2020 Elections – Voter Options

Vote By Mail

Rehoboth Town Clerk – August 2020 Article

Track Your Application And Ballot

Voters who have applied for a vote by mail ballot may use this link: http://www.sec.state.ma.us/wheredoivotema//track/trackmyballot.aspx Continued on next page....

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10 The Reporter August 2020 to track the status of their application as well as their ballot status (mailed / received back in our office). Please note that we anticipate a large volume of applications (there are over 9,500 voters in Rehoboth) and request you allow at least a week or so before checking the status of your application and allow a minimum of

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7 days to receive your ballot from the status date of mailing. The Rehoboth Post Office has been very good about expediting ballots mailed at the Rehoboth Post Office; however, if you do not mail your ballot from Rehoboth, it can take 7 or more days for us to receive your mailed ballot from outside of Rehoboth. Please DO NOT contact the Clerk’s Office to check on your status until the recommended amount of time listed above has passed. Inquiries should be sent to TownClerk@RehobothMA.gov

Return of Vote by Mail Ballots

Mailed a postage return ballot to track theBallots status ofinclude their application as pre-paid well as their ballot statusenve(mailed / recei lope that is addressed to the Town Clerk’s Office. You may return office). Please we anticipate a large volume (there are over your ballot by note mail that (please see deadlines below)oforapplications hand deliver your ballotand byrequest placing in theatdrop of the Town OfRehoboth) youit allow least abox weekoutside or so before checking the status of y fices (deadline is close of polls on Election Day). Ballots CANNOT and allow a minimum of 7 days to receive your ballot from the status date o be returned to the polling location on Election Day - they must be RehobothtoPost been very goodforabout expediting ballots mailed at the Rehob returned theOffice Townhas Clerk’s Office processing. however, if you do not mail your ballot from Rehoboth, it can take 7 or more days for u mailed ballot from of Rehoboth. Please DO NOT the Clerk's Office t Deadlines foroutside Ballots to be Returned andcontact Counted • Primary - All ballots mustofbe received at Town status untilElection the recommended amount time listed above has Hall passed. Inquiries by 8PM on September 1st to TownClerk@RehobothMA.gov

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• Ballots returned in the drop box must be received by 8PM on NoRETURN OF VOTE BY vember MAIL BALLOTS 3rd. • Ballots returned by mail must be postMailed Ballots include a postage pre-paid return ballot envelope that is addressed to t marked by November 3rd AND received byballot the Town Clerk by 5PM on November Office. You may return your by mail (please see deadlines below) or hand deliv 6th. placing it in the drop box outside of the Town Offices (deadline is close of po Please note that US Postal delivery serDay). Ballots CANNOT vices be returned to the polling location on Election Day - they mu (outside of Rehoboth) are not consis(508) 252-6777 the Town Clerk’s Office tent for processing. and can range from 3 to 11 days. We chuck@southcoast-benefits.com recommend voters return their ballots in the drop box outside of the town offices by 8PM Deadlines for Ballots to be Returned and Counted onballots Election to ensure it arrives back • Primary Election - All mustDay be received at Town Hall by 8PMtoon Septemb us in time to count. • November Election (508) 259-1701 • Ballots returned in the drop box must be received by 8PM on November 3 mike@southcoast-benefits.com • Ballots returned by mail must be postmarked by November 3rd AND Early in person Town Clerk by 5PM on Voting November 6th. will be available for the fall 2020 elections. An application Please note that US Postalisdelivery servicesto(outside of Rehoboth) are not consistent an not required vote early in person...just 3 to 11 days. We recommend voters return their ballots in the drop box outside of the show up and vote!

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State Primary Election Early Voting in Person

• VOTE EARLY IN PERSON We print all of the

Period: August 22nd - 28th available Town for theOffices– fall 2020148 elections. An application i REOPENING ESSENTIALS! Early Voting in person will beLocation: Peck Street

up and vote! Selectmen’s Meeting Room* – Enter from Social Distancing Signs, vote early in person...just–show rear of building only; handicapped entrance. Floor Graphics, Early Voting Note:in InPerson order to adhere to the Social and Contactless Pickup Signs! State Primary Election Please Orders signed by the Governor, Period: August 22nd -Distancing 28th more 5 voters will be Meeting allowedRoom* in Town– Enter from Location: Town Offices–no148 Peckthan Street – Selectmen’s Hall to vote early at all times. only;Design handicapped entrance. Please Note: In order to adhere to the Social Distancin • 4 COLOR PRINTING • Graphic by the Governor, no more than 5 voters will be allowed in Town Hall to vote early • Invitations • Postcards • Business Cards

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Rehoboth Town Clerk – August 2020 Article

Date 8/22 8/23 8/24 8/25 8/26 8/27 8/28

Hours 10:00 Am - 2:00 Pm 10:00 Am - 2:00 Pm 8:00 Am - 4:00 Pm 8:00 Am - 4:00 Pm 8:00 Am - 4:00 Pm 8:00 Am - 4:00 Pm 8:00 Am - 12:00 Pm

Presidential Election Early Voting in Person August 2020 The Reporter 11 Period: October 17th - 30th / Independent voters who do not select a party ballot type on their Location: Presidential week days - Town Offices– 148 PeckVoting Street – Selectmen’s Election Early in PersonMeeting Room* WeekendsPeriod: – TBA application. Unenrolled / Independent voters who select a party October 17th - 30th Day Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

Date 10/17 10/18 10/19 10/20 10/21 10/22 10/23 10/24 10/25 10/26 10/27 10/28 10/29 10/30

Times 10:00 Am - 2:00 Pm 10:00 Am - 2:00 Pm 8:00 Am - 4:00 Pm 8:00 Am - 4:00 Pm 8:00 Am - 4:00 Pm 8:00 Am - 4:00 Pm 8:00 Am - 12:00 Pm 10:00 Am - 2:00 Pm 10:00 Am - 2:00 Pm 8:00 Am - 4:00 Pm 8:00 Am - 4:00 Pm 8:00 Am - 4:00 Pm 8:00 Am - 4:00 Pm 8:00 Am - 12:00 Pm

Location TBA TBA Town Hall * Town Hall * Town Hall * Town Hall * Town Hall * TBA TBA Town Hall * Town Hall * Town Hall * Town Hall * Town Hall *

ballot type do not become registered in that party - they remain Unenrolled / Independent voters. Voters who are registered in one of the 4 political parties (Democrat, Republican, Green-Rainbow, Libertarian) MUST take that party ballot and are not given a choice of ballot type - verify your party enrollment @ (https://www.sec.state.ma.us/VoterRegistrationSearch/MyVoterRegStatus.aspx) or change your party enrollment @ (https://www.sec.state. ma.us/OVR/) prior to the deadline above to register to vote and before applying for a mail in ballot. FYI, Green-Rainbow and Libertarian September 1, 2020 Primary ballots do not have any candidates listed. View sample ballots at: https://www.town.rehoboth.ma.us/ home/news/9-1-2020-early-voting-mail-application-sample-ballots

*Please note that no more than 5 voters will be allowed in Town Hall to vote early at all times.

Location:

week days - Town Offices–

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Vote “In-Person” on Election - Polling Site(s) To Be Determined by Vote of Board of Selectmen 148 Peck Street –Day Selectmen’s Meeting and State Elections. Room* We will notify voters through the Town Website and a postcard mailing. The following protocols will be–required Weekends TBA for all “In-Person” Voting either early voting or on election day. Please do NOT go to the POLLS if you arethan sick or have been exposed leading up to Election Day. *Please note that no more 5 voters Instead please call our office 508-252-6502 for voting from home. Here are the “In-Person” will be allowed in Town Hall to vote earlyoptions at voting protocols: all times.

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Wear a Face Covering Bring a Pen – Blue or Black ink sharpie or Paper Mate Flair (if you don’t want to borrow one) Bring a Clip Board or Book to mark your ballot on (if you don’t want to use a Voting Booth) Bring an ID – in some cases voters will be required to show an ID. Don’t touch your face while polling location Polling Site(s) Toat Bethe Determined by Vote Maintain Social Distancing – keep away Elections. from anyone not from your household of Board of Selectmen and6’State Keep your ballot dry and free from hand sanitizers – to avoid tabulator issues

Vote “In-Person” on Election Day

We will notify voters through the Town Website and a postcard mailing. The following DEADLINE TO VOTE BY MAIL DATE OF protocols ELECTION TYPE will be required for all “In-Person” REGISTER APPLICATION ELECTION Voting either early voting or on election day. TO VOTE DEADLINE Please do NOT go to the are 22, 2020 tate Primary Election September 1, POLLS 2020 if youAugust August 26th - 5PM or have been exposed leading up to 24, 2020 Presidentialsick Election November 3, 2020 October October 28th - 5PM Election Day. Instead please call our office 508-252-6502 options from- home. SELECTIONfor OFvoting BALLOT TYPES PRIMARY ELECTION ONLY Here are the “In-Person” voting protocols: • Wearaavoter Facewho Covering primary election, is NOT registered in a political party (Unenrolled or commonly known ndependent) must specify the party ballot typeink of choice on the application to vote by mail or “in-person” • Bring a Pen – Blue or Black sharpie ng (early or on day). Flair (if We are unable to process for Unenrolled / Independent voters or election Paper Mate you don’t want applications to borrow one) oboth Town Clerk – August 2020 Article Page 3 • Bring a Clip Board or Book to mark OUR NAME HAS CHANGED – BUT IT’S STILL US! your ballot on (if you don’t want to use DR. FRANK CASARELLA, DMD IS NOW SEEKONK DENTAL a Voting Booth) • Bring an ID – in some cases voters will be required to show an ID. • Don’t touch your face while at the polling location • Maintain Social Distancing – keep 6’ away from anyone not from your household • Keep your ballot dry and free from hand sanitizers – to avoid tabulator issues

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Selection of Ballot Types Primary Election Only

In a primary election, a voter who is NOT registered in a political party (Unenrolled or commonly known as Independent) must specify the party ballot type of choice on the application to vote by mail or “in-person” voting (early or on election day). We are unable to process applications for Unenrolled

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The Reporter August 2020

Early Voting (By Mail Or “In-Person”) FAQ:

If I applied for a vote by mail ballot can I appear to vote “in-person” at an early voting site or at the polls on Election Day?

If your vote by mail ballot has not been received back to the Town Clerk’s Office – YES, you may still appear to vote in person at the polls on Election Day. These voters will be required to complete additional paperwork and will need to show an ID. Should your mail in ballot be received after you voted early “in-person” or at the polls on Election Day the mail in ballot will be rejected and will not be counted. If a vote by mail ballot has already been received back by the Town Clerk’s Office – NO. A returned vote by mail ballot is considered cast and you will not be eligible to vote by mail, early “in-person” or “in-person” at the polls on Election Day.

– “verify your party enrollment” at (https://www.sec.state.ma.us/ VoterRegistrationSearch/MyVoterRegStatus.aspx) or “change your party enrollment” (https://www.sec.state. ma.us/OVR/) by the voter registration deadline.

Is my voter status “active”?

Per state law, voters must return their signed street list census forms annually to the Town Clerk’s office to maintain an active voter status. Inactive voters are still eligible to vote but will be required to complete additional forms and show an ID at the polls in order to vote. Voters who appear as inactive can change their status to active by emailing a completed census form to TownClerk@RehobothMA. gov before Monday, June 22nd to avoid the longer check in process at the polls. Check you voter status online at https://www.sec.state. ma.us/VoterRegistrationSearch/MyVoterRegStatus.aspx .

What is my voting Precinct?

If I vote early “in-person” can I appear to vote “inperson” at the polls on Election Day?

Voters are strongly encouraged to know what precinct they will be voting in before arriving at the polls. A greeter who will be managing the lines and providing entrance authorization to maximize social distancing within the polls will have the ability to look up your precinct – but this will likely slow down lines at the polls. Check your precinct online at https://www.sec.state.ma.us/ wheredoivotema/bal/MyElectionInfo.aspx

When & how is an early voter’s ballot cast?

Educated voters will reduce the amount of time necessary in the voting booths and reduce lines and crowding while voting. View a sample ballots at : https://www.town.rehoboth.ma.us/home/news/9-1-2020-earlyvoting-mail-application-sample-ballots

NO - If you appeared to vote early “in-person” your ballot will be considered cast and you will not be eligible to vote by mail, or “in-person” at the polls on Election Day. Voting “In-Person” at the Polls after submitting an early ballot is prohibited as outlined in 950 CMR 4 7.19. All vote by mail and early voting in person ballots will be opened and inserted into a tabulator before election day or fed through the tabulators at the polls on election day. These ballots will be kept secured, locked, and unexamined until the polls are closed on Election Day. More information on how Rehoboth intends to process these ballots will be available after the Secretary of State provides regulations on processing ballots before Election day.

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Am I a registered voter & what is my party enrollment?

The deadline to register to vote or change your party affiliation for the State Primary Election is Saturday, August 22nd. You may register to vote or change your party enrollment online at:www. registertovotema.com Unenrolled (independent) voters will need to choose which primary ballot type they want to vote on. Voters who are registered in a particular party (Democrat, Republican, Green-Rainbow, Libertarian) MUST take that party ballot type

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What will I be voting on?

Our commitment is to keep voters and election workers safe:

• Voting Booths will be cleaned throughout the day • Unused / sanitized pens will be provided to those who need to borrow one • Hand sanitizer will be provided at the exit

Calling All Interested Election Workers

I would like to thank the residents who stepped up and completed a talent bank form to become an election worker. I don’t believe we will be able to combine precincts at the COA as we did for the Annual Town Election; voter turnout will be much higher and parking will be an issue. As a result, we will need many more election workers to staff the September and November Elections. Therefore, if you are interested in becoming an election worker, please fill out a Talent Bank Form and submit to the Board of Selectmen’s Office as soon as possible. The Talent Bank form is available on the town website at: https://www.town.rehoboth.ma.us/sites/g/files/vyhlif4911/f/ uploads/talent_bank_form-revised.pdf I will be holding an Online Election Worker Training for all new election workers on August 19th. If you would you like to be an Election Worker, please check my election worker training PowerPoint and handout materials on the Town Clerk’s page of the town website. To view the PowerPoint, please go to: https://www.town.rehoboth.ma.us/town-clerk/pages/electionworker-training-resources and if, after reviewing the materials you would like to become an election worker, please fill out a talent bank form (available on the town’s website) @ https://www.town.rehoboth.ma.us/sites/rehobothma/files/uploads/talent_bank_form-revised.pdf so you can be appointed and become a part of our wonderful team. Elections usually require 15 hours of your time (6:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.); Town Meetings 4-5 hours (6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.) of your time. If you are interested, please fill out a talent bank form and send it in to the Board of Selectmen’s Office. If you are interested in participating in the online “ZOOM” training session on August 19, 2020, please contact our office at 508-252-6502 X-3109 or X-3110 so we can share the login information with you. Thank you!

August 2020 The Reporter

2020 Street Listings Are Available

If you would like a copy of the 2020 Street Listings, there is a charge of $15.00. You may order one online @ https://www. invoicecloud.com/rehobothgovsvcs; request a copy by mail or through the drop box outside of Town Hall-148 Peck Street. If paying by check, please make your check payable to: The Town of Rehoboth ~ thank you.

Pandemic; especially when people can be walking around without symptoms and infecting those around them. Thank you all for voting in the September 1st Election. I look forward to talking with you next month and sharing the election results. Please remember to check the town website and local publications for information on upcoming Elections and Town Meetings. Please stay healthy and safe ~ Laura

2020 Dog Tags – Past Due

I am pleased we have registered 1,720 dogs so far this year, unfortunately, we still have 527 dogs that remain unlicensed; 381 more than in 2019. We provided every household in January a copy of the dog license registration form (2020 Census mailer) so they could register their dog prior to the April 1st annual deadline. Then the COVID-19 Pandemic hit and as a result, we offered dog owners a 90-day grace period. During the month of July, we sent reminder postcards informing dog owners we will unfortunately be imposing a $15 late fee beginning August 1st. Please license your dog as soon as possible to avoid further action involving the Animal Control Officer. The State authorizes all Animal Control Officers to fine delinquent dog owners $50/day until they renew their dog’s yearly licenses. Please do not let that happen to you. We understand this year has been very difficult for residents to get their dogs vaccinated due to the Town having to cancel two rabies clinics due to the Pandemic; however, veterinarian offices are now open by appointment and we must make sure our animals are properly vaccinated in Rehoboth so everyone will be safe. If you are one of the 527 residents who received a reminder postcard, please pay as soon as possible via mail, stopping by town hall to drop off your payment and valid rabies certificate in the “drop box” outside of town hall, or by paying online at: https://www.invoicecloud.com/rehobothgovsvcs Please let us know if your dog is ill and can’t receive a rabies shot, has passed away or moved, we will not know unless you notify the clerk’s office 508-252-6502 x-3109 or x-3110 ~ thank you. Unfortunately, if we do not hear from you or receive your dog’s license renewal by August 1st, we will need to start charging a $15 late fee for each unregistered dog. Spayed/Neutered dogs are $10 each; not Spayed/Neutered are $20 each. If you are over 70 years old, registration fees are waived; however, you still must keep your dog’s rabies vaccinations current and register your dog every year. Thanks so much for renewing your dog’s 2020 license as soon as possible.

Town Meetings

As of this writing, no Town Meeting Date has been scheduled. The Board of Selectmen will be meeting with the Town Moderator and Town Clerk on Monday, August 3rd to discuss further.

Business Certificates

If you are filing for a new business within the Town of Rehoboth, or if you are planning to file a DBA (Doing Business As), you must first go to the Building Inspector/Zoning Officer’s office at 148 Peck Street to determine if any filings are necessary with their office prior to completing the final step of filing with the Town Clerk’s office. The fee to file for a business certificate is $50. The certificate is valid for four years. Should an amendment to the business certificate be needed, a $10 fee will be charged. For forms and additional business certificate information, please visit our town website @ http://www.town.rehoboth.ma.us/town-clerk/pages/businesscertificates In closing, Lynn, Odete and I wish you all a safe, happy, most enjoyable summer, and a wonderful Labor Day holiday. If at all possible, please take advantage of the mail-in ballot option offered through the State. In-Person Early Voting and/or Election Day puts people in a compromised position during the COVID-19

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The Reporter August 2020

Rehoboth Awarded Grant, Green Community Designation

The Town of Rehoboth has officially been recognized as a Massachusetts Green Community and was awarded a total of $148,380 to fund a number of energy conservation projects designed for various Town facilities. The projects will reduce the Town’s consumption of energy and produce cost-savings for the Town. Funding for the projects is being provided by a grant to the Town from the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources. The Town will contract the projects with Energy Source, a MAcertified energy conservation provider. Facilities affected by the initiative include the Council on Aging, the Annex TV Studio, the Public Safety Building, the Highway Department, Fire Stations #2 and #3, and Blanding Library. This designation and award are the result of work undertaken by the Town’s Green Energy Committee, which began in Spring 2018 and has enjoyed the full support of the Board of Selectmen. Members of the Committee are Patricia Abrahamson, David Feeney (vice-chair), Carolyn Panofsky (chair), Jess Skyleson, and Lisa Wentworth (clerk). The grant application process relied on audits of Town facilities that were coordinated by Bill Pray, Rehoboth Facilities Manager, with Energy Source, the conservation provider; Mr. Pray will also oversee the implementation of the conservation projects, which are expected to be completed by the end of 2020. Please bring face masks, lawn chairs and bug spray, NO Pop up tents allowed — No Groups larger then 10 — 6 Ft. separation unless family members The area will be sprayed each week by Bristol County Mosquito

Rehoboth’s Veterans’ Service Office Continues To Provide Transportation For Rehoboth Veterans With All Covid-19 Safety Measures In Place. All precautions and safety measures for Covid-19 are in place to protect our Veterans and Drivers. If are a Veteran in need of a ride to the VA Hospital, clinics, doctors appointment other medical appointments, dless Possibilities the Rehoboth Veterans Service Officer, Jake Kramer can help you. Call 508-252-4467 or | SEEKONK, MA 02771 e-mail veterans@town.rehoboth.ma.us to coordinate the services of your need. Appointments need to be scheduled no less than a week in advance.

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August 2020 The Reporter

Rehoboth Selectmen Mull Fix for Dangerous Intersection

By Joe Siegel The Board of Selectmen plan to make changes to the intersection of Barney Avenue and Fall River Avenue (Route 6), which was the site of a horrific three car crash last month. “There are some sight issues that need to be corrected,” said selectman Michael Costello on Monday. Selectman Gerry Schwall proposed moving the utility pole on Route 6. Schwall said a resident suggested trimming some of the hedges which block views of oncoming traffic. Selectman Dave Perry believes excessive speed is the reason for the accident. “We all know the answer is a light,” said Perry, noting motorists drive 55 to 60 miles per hour on Route 6. One of the vehicles, a Hyundai Santa Fe with Rhode Island plates, rolled over and came to rest between the two other vehicles on its driver’s side. It was occupied by two women as well as a twenty-three-month-old boy. All three occupants were trapped inside the vehicle and required extrication. Due to the nature of the injuries of the operator of the Hyundai Santa Fe, the Massachusetts State Police Departments Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Section was called to investigate the crash.

Regional School Agreement May Be Dissolved

By Joe Siegel Rehoboth voters will be deciding whether or not to dissolve the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Agreement at the Annual Town Meeting. Selectmen Chairman Skip Vadnais said the citizens’ petition calls for the dissolution of the Kindergarten through Grade 8 portion while keeping the high school as part of the district. “It’s going back to the way we were pre-1983,” Vadnais said, noting the two candidates (Anthony Arrigo, Ellen Corvi) who were supportive of the regional school committee “lost big time” in the recent town election. Aaron Morse and Richard Barrett, who were elected to the school committee, touted fiscal responsibility and were proponents of de-regionalizing, said Vadnais. The meeting, which was supposed to have been held in May, was postponed by the Board of Selectmen when it became clear the state budget would not be determined before June 30. The new fiscal year began on July 1. Vadnais said the meeting date and location would be discussed by the board, the town moderator, the town clerk, and the Finance Committee chairman the first week in August. Complicating matters is providing a space large enough to safely accommodate what Vadnais predicts could be as many as 1000 residents in attendance. The threat of COVID-19 will require social distancing. “We need a big room to put everybody in because there will be a lot of people on both sides of the argument,” Vadnais added.

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Selectmen Approve $3.5M Spending Plan

By Joe Siegel The Rehoboth Board of Selectmen recently approved a $3.5 million spending plan for the month of August. The board has been appropriating funds on a monthly basis as a result of not having an approved town budget for the 2021 fiscal year. Selectman Gerry Schwall explained any money not spent in August will be carried over to September. The board voted in June to postpone the annual town meeting due to uncertainty surrounding the state budget. The new fiscal year began July 1. Selectmen will meet with the town moderator, town clerk, and the finance committee chairman in August to determine a new date for the town meeting.

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The Reporter August 2020

Bill Maiorano Steps Down as Head of REMA

By Joe Siegel In those days, the department was under Bill Maiorano recently retired as Director of the town’s Emerthe auspices of civil defense due to the Cold gency Management Agency (REMA) after serving for over 30 years. War still raging between the United States Maiorano, 66, attended the University of Rhode Island, where he and Russia. “Back then, we had a huge studied Resource Development. REMA consists of representatives volunteer squad,” Maiorano remembered. from all local public safety groups including fire, police, rescue, “Between the Rescue Squad and us we ambulance, board of health, town nurse, animal control, schools, had a staff of 25 volunteers all the time. The senior center, highway department, and town administration. challenges were keeping people actively Maiorano grew up in Cranston, Rhode Island and joined the involved in emergency management.” Rehoboth Fire Rescue in 1983. He served as Captain at one of the The September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks stations before becoming the head of REMA in 1986. on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon Bill Maiorano had the effect of refocusing emergency response and preparedness. Maiorano conducted trainings for residents so they would be able to handle large-scale incidents. Maiorano noted that REMA always operated with a small budget but through the years he was able to obtain grants and supplies. Hurricanes have caused a lot of problems through the years. Maiorano remembers when Rehoboth lost electricity for a week due to the intensity of the wind and rain from Hurricane Sandy in 2012. Tammy Weaver “Our big challenge in this town when we have a huge storm is that (508) 372-9534 we’re completely on a well system,” Maiorano said. “Because of TMWEAVER@METLIFE.COM the large (number) of trees, we really lose power. Since we don’t have our own substation, our power comes from other towns so www.tammyweaver.metlife.com we’re kind of the last ones on the line to get fixed.” ® Providing insurance solutions “I contacted Massachusetts Emergency Management (MEMA) to bring in water so the military would bring down pallets of water for us and we would disburse them,” Maiorano continued. “We had ® the three fire stations set up as our distribution points.” Rehoboth Offered by MetLife Auto & Home , a brand of Metropolitan Property and Casualty Ins. Co. and its affiliates, Warwick, RI. Life insurance from unaffiliated companies through MetLife Auto & Home Insurance Agency, Inc. suffered from severe flooding in 2010. REMA had their hands full L0618505861[exp0521][All States][DC] © 2018 MetLife Services and Solutions, LLC trying to keep residents safe. Maiorano found himself in a precarious situation during the response. “We were out sandbagging nonstop,” Maiorano noted. “We were using our own personal vehicles. One time I was down by Shad Factory (in my truck) and the water was up to my wheel wells.” REMA also operated the emergency shelter. The volunteers would sleep on the floor overnight. “We basically gave the cots to all the people in town,” Maiorano explained. “I had a great group of guys. The Rescue Chief Dave Drown was amazing. He was kind of my mentor and inspiration.” Maiorano won the respect of town officials, who praised him for his hard work. Selectman Michael Costello said Maiorano’s performance as REMA Director had been “outstanding.” “He’s been a great asset to that department,” Costello noted. “He’s going to be sadly missed.” Selectman Jim Muri said Maiorano had “worked tirelessly to find sources of food both for the seniors and also for the food pantry.” “Bill has just been a huge asset to this town and I don’t think we’ll be able to fill his shoes,” Muri added. Maiorano acknowledged the dedication of the members of REMA as well as the Fire Department and Rescue Squad. He credits some of his success to their abilities and hard work. “It’s a team effort,” Maiorano added. “I had a great team.”

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Selectmen Consider Street Naming Policy

By Joe Siegel The Rehoboth Board of Selectmen are considering an official street naming policy. “I have no problems with people’s names being on streets,” Selectman Dave Perry said Monday. Perry wanted to make sure there weren’t multiple streets with the same name, which could impact emergency response from the fire and police departments. Selectman Jim Muri volunteered to consult with the town planner on the street names before they are sent to the board for approval. Chairman Skip Vadnais said the board would solicit the input of the Police Chief, Fire Chief, and Board of Assessors before revisiting the subject.

– Moved that the Town amend Section 3.2 of the Seekonk zoning by-laws and the zoning map by changing the zoning designation of the property located at 0 Lake St., identified as Seekonk August 2020 The Reporter 17 Assessors plat 16, lots 30 and 32, containing approximately 25.45 acres of land from R-4 zone to R-2 zone. Motion did not pass a 2/3 majority.

The Seekonk Scene

The Town Clerk’s office must plan months ahead of time for many of the tasks we perform, particularly elections. 2020 has already been a challenging year with the March State Primary and the Annual Town Election. We are now planning for the September 1, State Primary and the November 3, State/Presidential Election. Please note that the Governor signed new legislation elections provide three options new to vote:legislation regarding Please regarding note that the that Governor signed elections provide three options to Day. vote: Vote by Mail -that Vote Early in person – Vote on Election Vote by Mail - Vote Early in person – Vote on Election Day. Fall Elections Deadline to Vote by mail Election Date Location Hours

From the Clerk

It’s August and we’re still dealing with the Covid-19 pandemic. It certainly has changed the way we have had to operate over the past 5 months but I am happy to report that all Town Hall offices are now open with the necessary precautions; mask wearing, social distancing and sanitizing. Even though we are open to the public and love seeing Seekonk resident’s, we would like to remind you that if Florice Craig you can get things done by a phone call, email, regular mail or the drop-box in front of Town Hall that would be greatly appreciated for everyone’s safety. In the July issue of the Reporter I had an error in the recap of the Annual Spring Town Meeting. I’m sorry if this caused confusion. Under Article 13 it should have said: – Moved that the Town amend Section 3.2 of the Seekonk zoning by-laws and the zoning map by changing the zoning designation of the property located at 0 Lake St., identified as Seekonk Assessors plat 16, lots 30 and 32, containing approximately 25.45 acres of land from R-4 zone to R-2 zone. Motion did not pass a 2/3 majority. The Town Clerk’s office must plan months ahead of time for many of the tasks we perform, particularly elections. 2020 has already been a challenging year with the March State Primary and the Annual Town Election. We are now planning for the September 1, State Primary and the November 3, State/Presidential Election.

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Vote by Mail – All registered voters qualify to vote by mail in both fall 2020 elections. Application post cards were mailed by the State July 1 to ALL registered voters. People who register to vote after that date will beRAVASSOS sent an application to vote by&mail withUSIAK their voter registration acknowledgment receipt. If you want to request an application to vote by mail please go to the town’s website www.seekonk-ma.gov under departments/Town Clerk/ downloadable forms/ Vote by Mail Application. Once printed you can email it to townclerk@seekonk-ma.gov (if emailing, your signature must be visible and signed in the same manner as aBroker/owner, handwritten signature)GRI, mail it notary back to: 100 Peck St. Seekonk, MA 02771, drop it off in the white drop-off box in front of Town Hall, or hand deliver it to the Town Clerk’s office. It is years experience important to20 remember when voting in the Primary, if you are an Independent (unenrolled) voter you must check off what party ballot you want sent to you. We will not be able to send a (401) ballot without a party designation. The deadline to request a vote by mail ballot for the Sept 1, th -5pm. Primary is August 26www. TKREB.com Return vote by mail ballots – Mailed ballots include a postage pre-paid return ballot envelope addressed to the Town Clerk’s Office. You may return your ballot by mail, drop it off in the

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person is not permitted to vote in person on Election Day. Deadlines for ballots to be returned and counted– Primary Election: Polls by 8P Presidential Election: Polls by 8PM Nov 3rd.

The Reporter August 2020

Vote by Mail – All registered voters qualify to vote by mail in both fall 2020 elections. Application post cards were mailed by the State July 1 to ALL registered voters. People who register to vote after that date will be sent an application to vote by mail with their voter registration acknowledgment receipt. If you want to request an application to vote by mail please go to the town’s website www. seekonk-ma.gov under departments/Town Clerk/ downloadable forms/ Vote by Mail Application. Once printed you can email it to townclerk@seekonk-ma.gov (if emailing, your signature must be visible and signed in the same manner as a handwritten signature) mail it back to: 100 Peck St. Seekonk, MA 02771, drop it off in the white drop-off box in front of Town Hall, or hand deliver it to the Town Clerk’s office. It is important to remember when voting in the Primary, if you are an Independent (unenrolled) voter you must check off what party ballot you want sent to you. We will not be able to send a ballot without a party designation. The deadline to request a vote by mail ballot for the Sept 1, Primary is August 26th -5pm. Return vote by mail ballots – Mailed ballots include a postage pre-paid return ballot envelope addressed to the Town Clerk’s Office. You may return your ballot by mail, drop it off in the white drop-off box in front of Town Hall or hand deliver it to the Town Clerk’s office. Voters who receive a vote by mail ballot, but do not return it prior to Election Day, may cast their vote in person on Election Day. Any voter that has returned a vote by mail ballot, or voted early in person is not permitted to vote in person on Election Day. Deadlines for ballots to be returned and counted– Primary Election: Polls by 8PM Sept 1 and Presidential Election: Polls by 8PM Nov 3rd.

All Dogs Go to Heaven

Vote Early in Person – In person early voting for the State PriVote In person for the StateinPrimary will be held at maryEarly will in bePerson held at– the Town early Hall, voting 100 Peck Street, the Board Hall, 100 Peck Street, in theroom. Board of Selectmen’s meeting room. of Selectmen’s meeting Please note we will practicing all Town safety protocols. Poll workers and Please note webewill be practicing all Hall Town Hall safety protocols. must wear masks allvoters times. must No more than 5 voters be allowed in the BOS m Poll workers andatthe wear masks at allwill times. No more atthan all times. 5 voters will be allowed in the BOS meeting room at all times.

State Primary Sept 1, 2020 - Early voting schedule Saturday August 22nd - Friday August 28th

State Primary Sept 1, 2020 - Early voting schedule Saturday August 22nd - Friday Saturday, August 22 Sunday, August 23 Monday, August 24 Tuesday, August 25 Wednesday, August 26 Thursday, August 27 Friday, August 28

12:00PM-4:00PM 10:00AM-2:00PM 8:30AM-4:30PM 8:30AM-4:30PM 8:30AM-7:00PM 8:30AM-4:30PM 8:30AM-12:00PM

You can view the four parties sample ballots at: www.seekonkma.gov You can view the four parties sample ballots at: www.seekonk-ma.gov Under Departments/ Town Clerk / Elections and Voting. Under Departments/ Town Clerk / Elections and Voting.

Have a great month, stay well and remember the Town Clerk’s Have awelcomes great month, stay well andallremember Town assistance, Clerk’s officeor welcomes in office inquiries from residentsthe seeking all residents in seeking assistance, or information relation services provided by information relation to services provided byinthe Town to of Seekonk. Seekonk. Florice Craig, Town Clerk Florice Craig, Town Clerk &Sorel, Lorraine Sorel, Assistant Town Clerk Lorraine Assistant Town Clerk

Seekonk Athletes Win Big in Food Drive for Doorways The Seekonk High School Boys’ Soccer Team Ran a Successful Food Drive For Doorways

FRANK GUILBERT Frank Gifford of Seekonk passed away peacefully on July 3. He brought joy to all who knew him over his 17 years, and was a cherished member of his family. Frank was also a fixture in his community, especially on Lincoln Street, where many saw him on his morning stroller rides. Frank’s favorite pastimes included chasing rabbits, jumping on furniture, getting lost in cornfields, and cuddling with his humans. In his honor, Frank’s family encourages you to make a special memory with a loved one.

We at Doorways Food Pantry would like to extend a heartfelt “thank you” to the SHS Boys’ Soccer Team and SHS Athletic Boosters who organized a food drive in response to our plea for support in this time of increased demand. The food drive was an enormous

August 2020 The Reporter success, filling five SUVs to the roof and raised thousands of pounds of food and over a thousand dollars in donations. We also want to thank all those who contributed to the food drive - we continue to be amazed by the generosity of the Seekonk community. (By the way, the Boys’ Soccer team is holding a fundraising car wash on August 8th at the Knights of Columbus Hall on Arcade Ave– stop by and congratulate them on a job well done.) Doorways continues to be challenged by the pandemic. In response to the reduced purchasing allowed by the Greater Boston Food Bank, we have been forced to cut our food distributions to twice a month rather than weekly. (Each food distribution involves thousands of pounds of food given in support of roughly sixty local households; there is never a cost or charge to our clients.) On the weeks where we do not distribute food, Doorways has been distributing prepaid grocery cards to assist our clients. “It’s a pretty expensive option” says David Francis of Doorways, “but hunger does not skip a week.” The pandemic has also affected how Doorways operates. “We used to have about eighty volunteers on a rotating basis” said Dave Francis. “Now we have only about two dozen people still actively engaged. It takes over a hundred volunteer hours of preparation for one curbside food distribution, and less than two hours to give away the food.” Francis estimates that it takes between two hundred and fifty to three hundred volunteer hours each month to keep the food pantry running – “It’s a bigger proposition than you’d think.” Doorways appreciates the many people who have already donated food or funds to help in this stressful time, and we hope others will follow their example as the crisis continues. Food donations can be dropped off to Doorways on Saturdays between 8:00 and 10:00 at the North School (2 North Street) in Seekonk. Donations to Doorways can be sent to PO Box 295, Seekonk, MA 02771. As always, thank you for your support.

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The Reporter August 2020

Parks & Recreation

The playground is near completion. If you haven’t noticed we have rock gardens all around Town. We like that you love a rock in the garden and want to take it home. What we ask is that you bring one back to replace it so that there are always kindness rocks here for everyone to enjoy. Make a rock, take a rock or maybe move a rock to another garden and bring one back. If we all work together we can all enjoy the kindness rock garden all the time. Thank you for your help with this!

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Town of Seekonk Elderly and Disabled Taxation Aid Fund Committee 100 Peck Street, Seekonk, MA 02771

Please Help - Donations Needed!!

The Town of Seekonk’s Elderly and Disabled Taxation Aid Fund was established in 2006 in order to assist eligible low income elderly and/or disabled town residents to help defray the cost of their property taxes. The fund consists totally of donations received from generous Seekonk residents, businesses, community groups, churches, and friends who are able to help those in need. All donations received are distributed in accordance with established guidelines by Seekonk’s Elderly and Disabled Taxation Aid Fund Committee. Donations are needed!! If you are able to help, please make a donation by simply mailing a donation to the Tax Collector’s Office at 100 Peck Street. Please make all checks payable to the Town of Seekonk Taxation Aid Fund. Thank you! The Taxation Aid Fund Committee

Seekonk Taxpayers: Do you need Help??

The Town of Seekonk’s Elderly and Disabled Taxation Aid Fund has funds available to assist elderly and/or disabled Seekonk residents to defray the cost of their property taxes. The fund consists totally of donations received from residents, businesses, community groups, churches, and friends. The basic eligibility requirements are that fund recipients: • must be at least 60 years of age by July 1, 2020, or disabled, • must not exceed an annual combined household income of $51,720, • must have owned and occupied the property as his/her primary domicile for at least five years prior to the July 1, 2020. Meeting the income criteria does not automatically guarantee an award. In addition to household income, other assets, as well as other household debt and expenses, will be taken into consideration. A copy of the applicant’s most recent year’s Federal Income Tax Return(s) for each member of the household is required to be submitted with the application. Applications and Application Guidelines (Definitions and Eligibility) will be available at the Seekonk Assessor’s Office, and also at Human Services, after July 1, 2020. Applications are due back in the Assessor’s Office, 100 Peck Street, no later than October 1, 2020. Final award decisions will be made by the Town of Seekonk’s Elderly and Disabled Taxation Aid Fund Committee no later than December 31, 2020. Awards will be applied to the February 1, 2021 and/or May 3, 2021 tax bill.

Seekonk Animal Shelter

The Seekonk Animal Shelter at 100 Peck St. has reopened to the public however, we are following town guidelines for Covid-19 which includes the following procedures. There is limited access to the areas of the shelter. At this time, we can only allow guests into the lobby and cat room. Masks must be worn at all times. Social distancing of 6 feet between parties must be observed, which limits the number of people we can accommodate in the shelter at one time. To maintain these capacity limits we ask that when you arrive at the shelter, you call from your car or knock on the door to be admitted. By observing these procedures, we can facilitate the adoption process. Our available pets change frequently as we are currently trapping cats and kittens. If you are interested in adopting, please call us at 508-336-6663 and we can tell you about the cats and kittens currently available. At this time, we do not have any dogs.

August 2020 The Reporter

Educational Grants Support Seekonk Land Trust’s Mission

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If you or your family have attended Seekonk public schools or used the public library, it’s likely you’ve benefited from educational grants sponsored by the Seekonk Land ConWe now offer recycled servation Trust (SLCT). SLCT has been supporting environmental education since 1987 asphalt driveways when board member Gerie Zaretsky and SLCT’s president Mary Wilson arranged the first elementary school field trip with 300 students to the Audubon’s Caratunk Wildlife Refuge Asphalt & Gravel Driveways on Brown Avenue. Shortly thereafter, SLCT established an annual educational grant proDecorative Stone Macadam gram which continues to flourish today with well over 100 grants awarded and thousands Patios & Walkways of students participating. Seekonk Public School teachers are invited to apply for annual Stone Walls grants of up to $500 to fund environmental education programs for their students. By Subpumps & French Drains awarding these mini-grants, the Land Trust hopes to foster an appreciation for nature and Small Excavation Services environmental science in our young community members. FREE ESTIMATES The Caratunk Nature Program continues to be popular with Ms. Lisa Hopkins third grade at Martin Elementary. For the past 5 years bringing her class to Caratunk “.... proLandscaping & Hardscaping vides my third grade students a perfect hands-on opportunity to experience nature and Commercial & Residential biodiversity in their hometown,” says Hopkins. On their nature hike, students find evidence of otter, muskrat, turkeys and deer, and learn to identify common bird and plant species. Bill Card One student writes to the Trust, “I will always remember, leaves of three, let it be,” as she 774.306.6217 learned to identify the ubiquitous springtime poison ivy. Rehoboth, MA Ms. Angela Cunard, teacher and chair of the science department at Seekonk High Insured School, has been awarded grants for the past 18 years. Her Advanced Placement Biology students have been conducting an ongoing field study of water quality in Burr’s Pond and the Runnins River with their SLCT grant funds. Cunard states, “Students are able to learn and apply ecological concepts to real, hands-on research. They also compare their results to those of previous years, so they are part of a bigger, meaningful project.” Since 2008 Mr. Matthew Wills and his honors biology students have also received grants and joined the study. Both classes of students present their research findings to the Land Trust board and the public at the SLCT annual meeting. For their dedication to their work and students, both Cunard and Wills have been recipients of the Mary Wilson Community Conservation No one offers a better deal! Award from the Land Trust. Call 508.252.6575 to Advertise! As a result of this collaboration with the high school, two student members are invited to join the SLCT board meetings during their junior or senior year, to experience the grassroots effort it takes to preserve land. One previous student member, Andrew Breiter-Wu, has continued to be a valuable member of the SLCT board since 2012. Other memorable programs funded in recent years include Ms. Dina Cloutier’s whale watch trip to Cape Cod Bay, and Ms. Jes“Filtration is our only business not our sideline” sica Downing’s courtyard garden and greenhouse project at the middle school. At the elementary schools, Ms.Courtney Sancoucy 32 years experience - WQA Certified and factory trained personnel and her 5th grade students initiated a composting project and built a composting bin. Ms Jennifer Boudreau and Ms.Tracy Churchill arranged a hands-on sea creature program for their kindergarten students through the Biome Marine Biology Center. Other grants Iron, Manganese, pH, Bacteria, have been awarded for programs with Audubon’s Oak Knoll SancRotten egg smell, Nitrates, Arsenic, tuary in Attleboro, Buttonwoods and Roger Williams Park Zoo,

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Save the Bay, and the New England Aquarium. Students have studied marine creatures, insects, native species, invasive plants, rainforests, reptiles, watersheds, water quality, and climate change. SLCT’s commitment to environmental education expanded in 1993 with a grant to the Seekonk Public Library to establish an Environmental Resource Center (ERC) in memory of Land Trust founder Mary Wilson. SLCT continues to provide annual funding to the ERC which, Library Director Peter Fuller, says, “..... offers a wide variety of material and programs that explore a broad range of topics including environmental sciences, ecology and sustainable living. The success of SLCT and the Town of Seekonk in preserving our open spaces is evidence of expanding environmental awareness. We at the library believe the materials and programs provided by the ERC influence this change.” In 2018, Seekonk Library and SLCT partnered with the Town’s Conservation Commission to launch a Seekonk Nature Photography Contest. Fuller says, “the contest encourages people to explore natural spaces in Seekonk, provides local photographers an opportunity to display their work, and allows the library to develop a unique, local collection of images of our town.” The library plans to revive the photo contest and other ERC programs in fall 2020. The SLCT Board is grateful to and inspired by all grant recipients whose dedication to environmental science education has made a lasting impact on our town. Ms. Jessica Downing acknowledging her recent grant writes, “SLCT has been such an amazing supporter of our schools and our children. It is so important that our young community members (soon to be leaders!) appreciate and respect our natural world.” Now more than ever, we couldn’t agree more. SLCT is a volunteer nonprofit 501(c)(3) dedicated to the preservation of open space, land stewardship, and environmental and conservation education in the town of Seekonk. To learn more about SLCT and our grant program, or to donate, please visit seekonklandtrust.org or follow us on facebook.com/SeekonkLCT.

Ms. Sansoucy’s fifth grade class (2018-19) celebrate their SLCT grant award for their composting project. The students wrote the grant proposal.

AP Biology teacher and science department chair, Ms. Angela Cunard, with former students Allison Houle and Emily DiBiase, take measurements during their study of water quality at Burr’s Pond.

August 2020 The Reporter

Seekonk Town Government Returning to Normal

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By Joe Siegel After months of being shut down due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, town offices are now open to the public again. Town Hall has been modified to be as “secure and user friendly as possible,” Town Administrator Shawn Cadime told selectmen last week. Visitors will be instructed to observe social distancing guidelines. Human Services and the Veterans Agent are serving people by appointment only. Town employees have been encouraged not to leave their workspace unless necessary and not to congregate in large groups so as not to spread Covid-19. Cadime said mail bins have been placed outside of offices which require forms to be signed and dropped off. Face coverings are also required for anyone gathering in common areas, such as the employee break room. Members of the public are also being allowed to attend selectmen meetings, which are now being held at the Senior Center. Currently, the number of meeting attendees is limited to 10, although chairman Justin Sullivan said that figure could change depending on what is placed on the agenda. Face coverings are required to gain entrance to the building. Anyone who wants to attend is required to pre-register online by going to the town website: www.seekonk-ma.gov.

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Cadime Gets High Marks

By Joe Siegel Town Administrator Shawn Cadime has earned high marks from selectmen for his job performance. The review and evaluation was based on the goals and objectives developed jointly by the board and Cadime. Cadime was praised for maintaining effective communication with the board and for providing accurate financial forecasts and for his handling of town finances. “Given the fact that it was a challenging year with a lot of unexpected events and issues, (Cadime) has done a good job,” Chairman Justin Sullivan said. “I think it’s a good evaluation,” noted selectman David Viera. “We’re evaluating ourselves in evaluating (Cadime), not just his performance,” said selectman Adam Petronio. “If we’re not doing our job, then how can he do his?” Sullivan explained the evaluation was designed not just to provide feedback on Cadime’s accomplishments, but also on areas which could use some improvement. Last September, Cadime signed a new three-year contract with the town. Cadime will continue in the position through July 31, 2022. Cadime’s salary will be $173, 747, then will increase to $177, 221 on August 1, 2020, and $180, 766 on August 1, 2021. Cadime has served as town administrator since 2014. He is also a member of the Fall River City Council.

Sullivan Takes Over as BOS Chairman

By Joe Siegel Justin Sullivan was named as the new Chairman of the Seekonk Board of Selectmen Wednesday. Chris Zorra will serve as Vice-Chair and David Viera will serve as Clerk. “The next year is going to be challenging for all of us,” said David Andrade, who served as chairman for four years. “There’s some big shoes to fill,” Sullivan told Andrade. “You’ve helped me a great deal in terms of getting a better understanding of the board. “It’s important that we all work together.” Viera warned newly elected selectman Adam Petronio about the potential for receiving negative feedback from residents, especially on social media. “We get criticized an awful lot,” Viera said. “In somebody’s eyes, you’re going to do the wrong thing no matter how hard you try.” “I have a very thick skin,” Petronio replied.

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School Committee Adopts Anti-Racism Resolution

By Joe Siegel Members of the School Committee adopted a resolution promoting diversity and inclusion on June 30. Chairperson Kim Sluter explained the statement, crafted by the Massachusetts Association of School Committees (MASC), has been adopted by 100 school districts throughout the state. The resolution reads in part: WHEREAS, every district will incorporate into their curriculum the history of racial oppression and works by black authors and works from diverse perspectives; and WHEREAS, we as school district leaders can no longer remain silent to the issues of racism and hate that continue to plague our public and private institutions; RESOLVED: that [District] and all the school districts in the Commonwealth must guarantee that racist practices are eradicated, and diversity, equity and inclusion is embedded and practiced for our students, families, faculty and staff. “Students need to learn about racism so we as a country can finally eliminate it,” Superintendent Rich Drolet said via e-mail. “We are a learning institution and this topic is critically important,” Drolet continued. “It is imperative for me as the superintendent, working with administrators and teachers, to lead efforts to ameliorate racism and address issues of equity, diversity, and inclusiveness.” “As a school district it is our collective responsibility to work together to make progress in revising any outdated curricula, educating our students as to the insidious nature of racism, and thinking about the role we all play in moving our society to a more just society,” said Sluter. “The district recognizes that this work needs to involve all staff and all students and this resolution is just one step in that direction,” Sluter explained. “It is the superintendent’s role to lead efforts to address equity, diversity, and inclusiveness in our school community and the superintendent will continue to reevaluate what we can do as a district to ensure that we teach our students to change behaviors and consider other viewpoints out of respect for all of humanity. We are proud to be part of a community that embraces continuous improvement.” “This work will take time and it must involve staff, students, and families,” Drolet said. “I have done some work with our district leadership team to address implicit bias’ and next we plan to work with all staff, likely with some outside consultants with expertise in this area, to develop and implement meaningful professional learning experiences to promote equity.” “I have already had a few Seekonk parents who have experience with this work reach out to me to share resources,” Drolet added. “Most recently, I participated in a Book Club led by one of our high school teachers, Morgan Hellmold. A good number of teachers and a few high school students participated. Mrs. Hellmold did a fantastic job leading virtual meetings that implored us to be reflective about race. We listened and learned from each other, and she should be commended for leading such important discussions that are relevant in our society today. This kind of learning experience needs to be replicated.”

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August 2020 The Reporter

Events & Activities What: The Looff On Tour When: August 8th 12-6pm

Where: Various locations throughout East Providence Contact: Rick Lawson epartscouncil@gmail.com

Creative people getting creative

As we prepared for The Looff 2020 Covid-19 came along and derailed our plans. We held out hope things would get under control and we could hold our festival at Crescent Park as we have done for the last 5 years but alas that will not be the case this year. This year we will reimage The Looff to adapt to this age of Covid-19. We have come up with The Looff On Tour. Because we cannot gather in large groups we will combine the concept of an Open Studio Tour where artists open their home studio to the public with the concept of The Looff. There will be 10 locations for the public to tour and check out the amazing artwork of artists and writers. The artists are excited to showcase their work. This year with our scaled down event we will have 18 artists and 3 writers. We will also offer entertainment scaled down to acoustic duos and 3 piece bands at Stevie D’s Riverside Tavern. The artists will be set up from Rumford down to Riverside with a few booths at Hunt’s Mills. Hunt’s Mills will also offer entertainment in the form of belly dancers and an A Capella group. “Our goal this year is to keep the spirit of The Looff alive. We have been in a lockdown fighting the virus and we hope our event encourages people to get out and about in our great city in a way that is safe and also entertaining.” Says Rick Lawson Chairman of the East Providence Arts Council. We will be distributing maps throughout the city as well as online for anyone who would like one. We also plan to offer an enticement to encourage folks to visit multiple locations. Because of the fluidity of everything these days we ask that you visit our website at https://eastprovidencearts. org/looff-on-tour/ to stay up to date on all activities regarding The Looff On Tour. “Art is what we turn to these days. Music, books, movies, and creating our own art is what will carry us through these extraordinary times” Rick Lawson “Together we will get through this”

of Pawtucket through the lens of a camera. The contest is open to residents and non-residents alike, but the photo must be taken in Pawtucket. After a public call for photo contest themes was advertised in January, “Hiding in Plain Sight” by Louise H. Zacharie of Cumberland was selected. Because of the restrictions for safety issues on public spaces, group gatherings and distancing, all photo submissions will be accepted on line this year, and all submitted photos will be on ‘exhibit’ on the City of Pawtucket website. This will allow participants to safely submit photos for this annual exhibit. Because of these recent changes, we have also extended the deadline to: August 21. All photos must be submitted by this date. Contest Rules: All photo submissions should follow the contest theme. All photos must be taken in the City of Pawtucket within the past year. Only one entry per contestant submitted by the photographer. Photos may be in color or black & white. All photos must be of good quality, hi-resolution and in JPEG format. Photos should be emailed to: psz333@aol.com. Please include your name, address, phone number and title of submission. All photos will be displayed on the City of Pawtucket website (www. pawtucketri.com) during the month of September. The Mayor’s Choice Award will receive a $100 cash prize. First Place will receive a $75.00 cash prize. Second Place will receive a $50.00 cash prize and other remaining winners will receive gift certificates. All winning photos will be used in the City of Pawtucket’s 2021 Calendar. For further information, please call (401) 273-5367.

City of Pawtucket Photo Contest - New Guidelines & Deadline Extended!

Deadline Extended to August 21, 2020 and New Guidelines for Pawtucket’s 22nd Annual Photo Contest

Pawtucket: A City in Focus Theme: “Hiding in Plain Sight”

Pawtucket – It’s that time of year for the annual City of Pawtucket Photo Contest, where selected winning photos are used in the ever-popular City Photo Calendar made available to residents free of charge each December – but COVID-19 has presented it’s challenges even for this photo challenge. This past February the City of Pawtucket and The Camera Werks proudly announced the 22nd Annual City of Pawtucket Photo Contest, where twelve winning photos would be selected by a panel of local professional photographers for placement in the 2021 City Calendar. This year’s photo contest judges will include Butch Adams, Richard Benjamin, Christy Christopoulos, Peter Goldberg and Aaron Usher. This annual contest provides an opportunity to bring awareness to the daily life, historic locations and the ever changing landscape

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The Reporter August 2020

CIGAR NIGHT FRIDAY

AUG 28, 2020

6 PM

Free Concerts from the Parks Commission

REHOBOTH LIONS 95 Cameron Way Rehoboth EVERYONE must wear a mask, and check-in at registration tables OUR OWN WORLD RENOWN CHEF MR. DAVID PERRY Chowder, Little Necks, Smoked Salmon, Lamb Chops Dirty Steaks, Baked Stuffed Shrimp, Potato Salad, Baked Beans

BEER-WHISKEY-WINE TASTINGS 6 to 7:30 pm Courtesy of Fellow Lion's Club Member CHRIS GASBARRO 2 CIGARS MEGA RAFFLE BEER & WINE WILL BE SERVED (NO OUTSIDE ALCOHOL)

$70 Checks to Rehoboth Lions Club

Mail to: 98 Danforth St., Rehoboth, MA 02769

NO TICKETS NO ENTRY

For Tickets Call JAY CRANDALL HENRY PIRES MIKE SILVA 508-252-6878 339-237-1947 508-409-8594

Please leave a message for Cigar Night

The Rehoboth Park Commission is putting on its annual Free Concerts at the Veterans Memorial, every Sunday in August. Enjoy and be safe. ð&#x;&#x2DC;&#x160;

Music, Fun, Entertainment Free Concerts

Donations would be greatly appreciated to help defray expenses on the entertainers. At the Gazebo on Redway Plain Rehoboth Presented by the Rehoboth Parks Commission Free Concerts 8/2/2020 8/9/2020 8/16/2020 8/23/2020 8/30/2020

5:00 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 8:00 PM 5:00 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 8:00 PM 5:00 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 8:00 PM 5:00 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 8:00 PM 5:00 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 8:00 PM

Rhythm 44 Who Doâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s William Mariano Rhythm 44 William Mariano

â&#x20AC;¢ Please bring face masks. Lawn chairs and bug spray â&#x20AC;¢ NO pop-up tents allowed â&#x20AC;&#x201C; No groups larger than 10 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 6 ft. separation unless family members â&#x20AC;¢ The area will be sprayed each week by Bristol County Mosquito â&#x20AC;¢ A concert is provided by funds from Massachusetts Cultural Council

Saint Vincentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 15th Annual Motorcycle Run â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A Ride to Improve the Lives of Children in Need

Saint Vincentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Services will be holding our 15th Annual Motorcycle Run on Sunday, August 16th, 2020 starting at 9:00 a.m. and beginning at 2425 Highland Avenue in Fall River. COVID-19 wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stop this annual event but it will be different. We are taking precautions to ensure each Rider and Passenger stay safe and that we follow all regulations regarding groups. Riders will arrive at Saint Vincentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s starting at 9:00am and a Saint Vincentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Volunteer will direct Riders to park their bikes in designated parking spots (all Bikes will be 6 feet apart). Once parked each Rider/Passenger can stay on/near their Bike to be checked in and receive their Bike Run T-Shirt. All Riders, Passengers and Volunteers will be asked to wear masks while on Saint Vincentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grounds. Kick Stands will be up at 10:00am and all Riders are encouraged (but not required) to enjoy our usual 50 mile bike run that travels through the scenic back roads of Fall River, Freetown, Taunton, Berkley and Lakeville, and ending by driving past Saint Vincentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. Due to COVID-19 restrictions we will NOT be hosting lunch or raffle at this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Run. We hope that wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t everyone from joining us â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the children look forward to seeing the Bikes and Riders every year! The Saint Vincentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 15th Annual Motorcycle Run is presented by Preferred Concrete Forms. Bike Run Timeline â&#x20AC;¢ 9:00am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Registration at Saint Vincentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Services â&#x20AC;¢ 10:00am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Kick Stands Up / Riderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Depart â&#x20AC;¢ 11:00am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ride Ends with a Drive By at Saint Vincentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

August 2020 The Reporter

The Reporter August 2020

Club News & ANNOUNCEMENTS Kiwanis of Greater Seekonk Awards the Morris Goldberg Scholarships

American Legion Post 302 *Hall Rentals Open to the Public *All you can Eat Breakfast, 2nd Sunday of every month

A virtual Senior Class night was held on June 17th. Kiwanis of Greater Seekonk awarded two Morris Goldberg Scholarships, named for our founder, for $1000 each to two very impressive 100 hour Key Club members. The recipients were Giana Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Ambra and Madison Khan. Giana will be attending Rhode Island College to study Nursing and Madison will be attending Tulane University in New Orleans, LA and studying to be a College Professor. We are very pleased and proud that Giana and Madison are very interested in community service and how much it means to them. Congratulations and best wishes for a successful and happy future.

Seating inside or outside available or TAKE OUTS are welcome and can be picked up in the expanded pa-

for Only $8.00! 7:30-10:30 AM Under Ma. Covid-19 Guidelines, Seating inside or outside available or TAKE OUTS are welcome and can be picked up in the expanded patio area under the BLUE umbrella next to Bay State Road. Mon-Fri 3:00 PM to Close, Sat 12:00 PM to Close & Sun 1:00 PM-Close Telephone # 508-252-9079

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Lions Baby Back Rib BarBQ Drive up Dinner August 23rd

To help with fund raising for our many local charities, the Rehoboth Lions are sponsoring a baby back rib BarBQ take out dinner on August 23rd. The dinner will include half rack of dry rub, baby back ribs, container of coleslaw, container of baked beans, and corn bread. $20 Location for distribution, with thanks to the Executive Board of the Rehoboth Congregational Church, will be the Church parking lot from 12noon-1PM. Only 100 tickets available. Contact Ray Medeiros 508 496 0171 or Chuck Procopio 508 509-9253, or any Rehoboth Lion for tickets. All profits from this event will go directly toward LOCAL charities.

August 2020 The Reporter

Lions Ask That You “Flip The Coin” for Local Businesses

For so many years the Rehoboth Lions and the Rehoboth Anawan Lions have made significant contributions to local charities as well as individuals in our communities, not to mention the donations made to Lions Charities around the world. These contributions come from many events that we held throughout the year such as our clam boils, our golf tournament, and the very popular Cigar Night, tree lighting ceremony, Gattlin Show and chicken BarBQ, as well as many other events. But without the generous donations made by local businesses none of this would happen. Our country and the world are in a very trying time, and none are more affected than those in need from our charities, AND the local businesses that support our charitable efforts. The Rehoboth Lions and the Rehoboth Anawan Lions want you to “flip the coin” and consciously look to support those businesses that have supported our community for so many years. Below is a list of the businesses that have supported us and we hope that you will keep them in mind as our community starts to open up. Support them, say thank you when you can and “flip the coin” when you have the opportunity to bring business to them. “We’re not above you, we’re not beneath you, but WITH YOU” • George Berwick Plumbing • Propane Plus • iAlive Restaurant • Kavanaugh’s Bakery • Bristol County Savings Bank • Dunkin Donuts • Rehoboth Reporter • J&J Materials • Newman YMCA • 4Town Farm • FastSigns Seekonk • Rehoboth Medical Center • Chartley Country Store • Home & Commercial Security • Minuteman Press • Mike Berwick Electric • Warren Animal Hospital • Duncan Hearing • Attorney Russ Weddell • Hendrick’s Pools • Homestead Farm • Manny & Son’s Repair • Personal Best Phys.Therapy • Scialos Bakery • CAM Enterprises • David Smith Real Estate • Rhode Island Beef & Veal • Seekonk Supply • Earle Dias Interiors • Graphic Inc. • KP Diner • Re/Max Integrity Jean Grota • Young’s Caterers • Souza Farms & Greenhouses • Bay State Truck and Trailer • Harvest Market • Gasparro’s Liquors • Ron Rupp • Pine Valley Golf Course • Briggs Corner Store • Bay State Trading Post • Hillside Country Club • Smith Insurance • Segregansett C.C. • Lisco Irrigation • Parker Golf Course • Office of Luke Travis • Almeida Construction • M.G.Salois Construction • Plaza Pizza • Waste Tech Disposal • Uncle Ed’s Front Porch • Rehoboth House of Pizza • Matt’s Landscaping • Vino’s Family Café • GT Excavating • Anawan Pharmacy • Doug’s Music • Land-Tek Maintenance • Grapevine • G. Lopes Construction • Yankee Spirits • INSITE Engineering • Noons Farm • AMS Construction • Dynasty electric

Rehoboth Garden Club News

The Rehoboth Garden Club has been continuing to meet using Zoom. We have been enjoying learning how to navigate this new way of meeting together. In September we will have a guest speaker using Zoom. Our speaker will be Jim Donahue from the Newport Preservation Society. Our Scholarship Committee is reaching out to guidance counselors at high schools in the area to get students to apply for our scholarship.

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The Reporter August 2020

Remembering Pat Knowles and the Scholarship Fund

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As the Rehoboth Garden Club once again proudly announces the 2020 Scholarship for $1500.00, we acknowledge and lovingly remember Pat Knowles, a long-time Rehoboth resident. Pat initiated the scholarship in 2000 and became a devoted Chair of the Scholarship Committee until her recent passing. Horticulture and many of its related fields should be the applicants’ course of study. The recipients, a substantial group, have expressed sincere appreciation for this assistance. Pat’s devotion, service, and longevity in the club are memorable. She served as President in 1974-1976. Out of respect and admiration, we have renamed the Scholarship Fund the Pat Knowles Scholarship Fund. The proceeds of the Club’s Annual Plant Sale are for this Fund. Pat was a faithful cashier for this event every year. Applications should be sent to Scholarship Fund, 24 Pine Grove Road, Rehoboth, MA and postmarked by August 15.

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Rehoboth Anawan Lions News

Hi from the Rehoboth Anawan Lions!! It is now the start of another Lionistic year, and with that comes new officers. President: Kathy Amaral; 1st VP Lisa Halijko; 2nd VP Nadene Martin; Secretary Charleen Silva; Treasurer Carol Grenier. 2 year Directors Bernie DeRoche and Trudy Smith. 1 year Directors Patricia Messier and Rose Almeida. Tail Twister Karen Salois. Lion Tamer Deborah Pires. LCIF Coordinator Stacey Carvalho. Membership Karen Cabral, Lynne Vickery, Janice Goulart. Sunshine Rose Almeida. Immediate Past President Cheryl Gouveia. Thank you to Cheryl and all her officers for what you did this year, it was a difficult time for the Club. We will not be having in-person meetings yet due to the Covid-19 virus, but hope to get together soon. On August 9th we will be Co-Chairing the monthly Breakfast at the Legion. Allyou-can-eat!! From 7:30 to 10:30am, Bay State Road. Come one and all! Everyone will be practicing social distancing and wearing masks and gloves. Always a good time! We are also looking into a drive-thru Clamboil in September, more info coming for that. Thank you for supporting the Club! Please do not hesitate to call one of our lovely Lions for assistance in any way we can help. Yours in Lionism, Rehoboth Anawan Lions

American Legion Post 302 Presents Annual Pig Roast

Applesauce, Potato Salad, Coleslaw, Beans & Rolls

Sunday October 11th, 2020 4:00-6:00 P.M.

$15.00 suggested donation per person RSVP NOW - Tickets Only – No Walk-Ins DEADLINE DATE FOR TICKETS IS OCT 5th!! John DuVally is cooking the pig with his famous jucies Under Ma. Covid-19 Guidelines, Seating inside or outside available or TAKE OUTS are welcome and can be picked up in the expanded patio area under the BLUE umbrella next to Bay State Road American Legion Post 302, 84 Bay State Road “At the Cannon” Rehoboth, MA, Phone # 508-252-9079, E-mail Jake at Speedyjake@aol.com or Facebook “American Legion Post 302” Like us on FaceBook @ https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/

August 2020 The Reporter

People In The News Seekonk High School Athletes Honored

By Joe Siegel Seekonk High School students Andrew Cabral and Kayla Owens were honored for their sportsmanship Tuesday by representatives of the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA). Cabral was recognized as the Student Athlete of the Month for March 2020. Owens was recognized with the National Federation of State High School Associations’ (NFHS) Spirit of Sport Award. MIAA, based in Franklin, serves 230,000 student athletes every year.

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The Reporter August 2020

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Seekonk and Rehoboth Students Receive Scholarships

Victoria Cabral of Seekonk and Lindsay Carlson of Rehoboth have each been awarded a $1,500 scholarship from the Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island (BCBSRI) Employees’ Scholarship Foundation. The company’s 31st annual awards ceremony was held virtually, continuing a tradition of offering scholarships annually to the children of BCBSRI associates and underscoring the company’s commitment to making higher education more accessible. To date, the self-funded employee foundation has awarded 250 scholarships toward higher education, totaling $440,000. Cabral is a sophomore at Rhode Island College, majoring in social work. Carlson, a recent graduate of Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School, will attend Clark University in the fall.

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August 2020 The Reporter

University News Area Residents On Bridgewater Dean’s List

Bridgewater – The following area residents were named to the dean’s list for the spring semester at Bridgewater State University:

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Michael Belcher, Ashley Boutin, Tiffany Costa, Kaylee CrooksLetourneau, Dick Curzake, Isabella George, Kalli Guevara, Ethan Hill, Jeffrey LePage, Olivia Leonard, Michaela Ludwig, Kelsey Majkut, Karissa Massud, Brooke Michaud, Jaime Morin, Felicia Prata, Taylor Roy, Emma Sanders, Kathleen Santos, Carly Sias, Nathan Tracy, Khai Truong, Tyler Vieira, Julia Walters and Maddie Whelan.

Fairfield University Congratulates Spring 2020 Dean List

The following Fairfield University student(s) received Deans List Honors for the Spring 2020 semester. Rehoboth: Joseph Moschella Seekonk: Emily Ferreira; Madeleine Kinney; Dominic Mazza

Jake Zimmerman Graduates from the University of New Haven

Jake Zimmerman of Seekonk, received a Bachelor of Arts in Music and Sound Recording from the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of New Haven in May.

Rehoboth Residents Named to Dean’s List at Boston University

Two Rehoboth residents have recently been named to the Dean’s List at Boston University for the Spring semester. Students recognized for this honor include: Caitlin E. Carro, and Ethan S. Hobson.

Students Named to Dean’s List at Fitchburg State

Fitchburg State University President Richard S. Lapidus has announced the students who qualified for inclusion on the Dean’s List for the Spring 2020 semester. Rehoboth: Joshua N. Mulligan Seekonk: Perry J. Joubert & Haleigh M. Silva

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Fitchburg State University President Richard S. Lapidus has announced the names of students included on the President’s List for the Spring 2020 semester. Rehoboth: Andrea E. Duncan

Nathan Costa of Seekonk Named to Dean’s List

Nathan Costa, an Electrical/Computer Engineering major at UMASS - Amherst, has been named to the Dean’s List for both the Fall 2019 and Spring 2020 semesters. Nathan is a 2019 graduate of Seekonk High School. He is the son of Michael and Dawn Marie Costa, also from Seekonk.

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The Reporter August 2020

Audubon Society Of Rhode Island

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

Birds, Bees, Bugs and Coastal Creatures Too! August 2018 Highlights from the Audubon Society of Rhode Island

New! Audubon is offering small group nature explorations designed with safety in mind. Get up close with some cool marine critters, learn all about the world of pollinators, net some amazing insects, or head out on a bird scavenger hunt! Rhode Island COVID-19 safety guidelines will be followed for all programs.

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Small groups are led by Audubon naturalists. Family units are encouraged to participate together. Masks and social distancing are required. Participants must bring their own masks. Advance registration is required, and a parent or guardian must accompany children. Visit the events calendar at www.asri.org for safety guidelines and to register. The Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium in Bristol, RI reopened on June 27, 2020. To allow for social distancing and for the safety of staff and visitors, advance registration for timed ticket entry is required. For safety guidelines and details on how to register for your visit, go to www.asri.org.

Bird Scavenger Hunt with Audubon August 10, 11, 12, 14, 2020; 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

Audubon loves birds! Join an expert for an all-about-birds scavenger hunt! Look and listen for birds in a variety of habitats, and learn about all kinds of bird nests, behaviors, foods, songs and calls. Binoculars and field guides will be available or bring your own. Wear sturdy shoes, bug spray, sun protection and bring a water bottle. Walk will be one mile. Families will go home with an activity. For safety guidelines and advance registration, visit the events calendar at www.asri.org.

Raptor Meet & Greet August 11, 12, 20, 2:00 – 2:30 pm

Come meet Audubon birds of prey! Observe a hawk or owl up close with an Audubon naturalist and learn more about their amazing adaptations for survival. Ask questions, take photos and share your own encounters with wildlife. Learn what you can do to help protect these species. Hands-on activities are part of the fun! Explore the wildlife refuge before or after the program. For safety guidelines and advance registration, visit the events calendar at www.asri.org.

Wildflower Walk and Talk August 14, 2020; 9:30 – 11:30 am

Head outside with Scott Ruhren, Audubon Senior Director of Conservation, to learn about the wide variety of plants and wildflowers growing along the trails at the Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium. Scott will review how to identify the plants, discuss their importance as pollinators, and show participants how to spot invasive species. Wear sturdy shoes. For safety guidelines and advance registration, visit the events calendar at www.asri.org.

Bugliest Bugs – Tales & Trails! August 18, 19; 2020; 10:00 - 11:00 am

Enjoy an engaging story all about bugs then go investigate field, forest and garden to look for wiggly, squiggly, wormy, squirmy insects and other critters. Nets, bug boxes, field guides and magnifiers will be available. Wear sturdy shoes, bug spray, sun protection and bring a water bottle. Walk will be less than a mile. Families will go home with an activity. For safety guidelines and advance registration, visit the events calendar at www.asri.org.

Explore the Estuary for Kids! August 20, 2020, 1:30 – 6:30 pm

Bring the kids to explore the amazing diversity of the estuary, from tidal creeks and salt marshes to the rocky shoreline! Kids will

August 2020 The Reporter

use different types of nets and search for fish, crabs and shrimp in the shallow waters of Prudence Island. Walk the shoreline to see what the tide has left behind and watch the ospreys and egrets hunt for food. This is a great family program! For safety guidelines and advance registration, visit the events calendar at www.asri.org.

Down by the Bay August 20, 21, 2020: 2:00 – 4:00 pm

Join an Audubon naturalist to explore the rocky shore along Narragansett Bay. Can you find crabs, snails, clams and fish? Buckets, nets, and field guides will be available. The round trip walk down to the bay and back is approximately 1.5 miles. Families will go home with an activity. For safety guidelines and advance registration, visit the events calendar at www.asri.org.

Mini Fun Day at the Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium

Timed Ticket Entry Required August 20, 2020; 10:00 am – 12:30 pm 10:00 am - 12:00 pm: Nature Craft table 10:00 am & 12:00 pm: Nature Story 11:00 am: Animal Interview For safety guidelines and to reserve a ticketed time entry, visit www.asri.org.

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Catchin’ Bugs! August 22, 2020; 10:00 – 11:30 pm

Come frolic and explore in the meadow on a lazy summer’s day. Nets and magnifiers will be available as well as other fun items to explore with. Look for butterflies, flowers, insects, birds, toads and other critters that live in the meadow. Wear a hat, sunscreen and insect repellent and lightweight long pants, socks and closed-toe shoes. For safety guidelines and advance registration, visit the events calendar at www.asri.org.

Bugs & Bubbly: An Adult Evening Adventure August 22, 2020: 7:30 – 9:30 pm

Join biologist and author Ginger Brown for a unique summer evening with the six-legged creatures that are active at night. Brown will lead a walk through the wildlife refuge to the boardwalk, where an ultraviolet light will be set up. This light attracts fascinating nocturnal insects, including beetles and moths. As you watch this live buggy event unfold before your eyes, wine and light snacks will be available. Bats and other nighttime creatures may show up as well! Leave the kids at home—this program is just for adults. Come prepared to walk the evening trails. You are welcome to bring a portable lawn or camp chair and applying bug repellent before arriving is recommended. For safety guidelines and advance registration, visit the events calendar at www.asri.org.

Scavenger Hunt at Caratunk August 30, 2020; 12:00 – 3:00 pm

Head out in nature for a scavenger hunt with Audubon! Check in at the white barn and then hunt for clues as you explore the Caratunk Wildlife Refuge. Finish back at the barn for a prize. Dress for the weather and be prepared to hike on rocky, uneven trails. For safety guidelines and advance registration, visit the events calendar at www.asri.org.

To Combat Climate Crisis: Livable RI Poster Campaign Through August 31, 2020; 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

Audubon’s summer art exhibit features the Livable RI Poster Campaign, which calls for a civic alliance to reverse global warming. The posters echo the art that built community around wartime efforts, especially those produced by the United States Food Administration during World War I. For safety guidelines and to reserve a ticketed time entry, visit www.asri.org.

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The Reporter August 2020

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August 2020 The Reporter

ary in Our New Location

Celebrating Our 1st Anniversary Recipient of The President’s Award in Our New Years! Location for 32 Consecutive

me by and see our award winning new dealerWith the 1st Anniversary of our new customer satisfaction in sales and yotalocation is“Come the in only dealer inintersection New England toand earn Swansea at the service one of only 6 in the Country and of Route 6 and 136...The Bristol Toyota to earn the award 29 years running...So award in customer satisfaction in sales and team is not only celebrating their new if your looking for a new car or truck we and state ofexperience the art the dealership but also 500 to choose and over 200 ne of only 6 in Country to earn have the over award celebrating all the new customers in used of all makes and models and if we ng ....So if your looking for a new car orhave truck sales and service. This January marked don’t what your looking for we will our Fast, Fair, Veader’s 30th anniversary of his used being our specialty for over 00 toEdchoose and over 200 used offind allitmakes family owned Bristol Toyota and 50 50 years and if you need service come and Friendly d if we don’t have what your lookingsee forwhat wegood will old fashion service is years in the auto sales business starting with Seekonk Sales over 50 years of practice...no ng our specialty forAuto over 50‘Body years really andlike if you deals.” Ed’s grandson David Anderson Jr. “DJ“ appointments necessary for Express ome issee good oldtofashion really the what fourth generation join the service lube is free pick up and delivery or 30 family owned business as Sales cars when needed reward points -DJ Anderson, ars of practice....no appointments loaner necessary Manager Ed’s family and employees with any service or part purchases... be free pick upcome and cars invite you to by delivery and see ouror 30 loaner remember we didn’t become one of Salesmanager award winning new dealership. Bristol New England’s best dealers by saying eward points with any service or part no purchases Toyota is the only dealer in New bring us your best deal. DJ Anderson, 4th generation of Veader family Englandbecome to earn the one Presidents awardEngland’s in we didn’t of New best ying no bring us you best deal ...... In Swansea...Minutes from Providence & Fall River!! Visit Us for Sales or Service New Convenient Location...Minutes from Providence and Fall River Over 400 new Toyotas Available Exclusive Loyalty Rewards Program State of the art Service Facility... No6), Appointment Necessary 2283 Grand Army Highway (Rte. Swansea, MA 02777 SWANSEA

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eader (right) with his grandson DJ.

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The Reporter August 2020

Church News & Events

Rehoboth Baptist Church to hold Outdoor Worship

On June 28th Rehoboth Baptist Church held an outdoor service with about 55 people seated in the shady parts of the parking lot and the pastor, elder and music under a canopy on the grass. Each attendee brought their own chair and was encouraged to bring their own lunch for an extended time of fellowship. On other weeks, services have been inside, spaced out in the sanctuary. Some who were not comfortable with that arrangement came to the outdoor service.

This was so well received, with visitors attending as well, that it was decided to do it again on Sunday, August 16th at 10:30 A.M. We hope to be under the trees on the grass this time. Bring your own chair and your own lunch(grill available for your use). August 23rd will be the rain date. Rehoboth Baptist Church is located on Route 118, two miles south of the Route 44 intersection. Visit www.RehobothBaptistChurch.org for current information about our services or to contact the pastor or elder.

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Nearly two months have passed since Newman Congregational Church, United Church of Christ began hanging ribbons of remembrance on its fence line. The COVID-19 Memorial continues to grow and is being co-created with members of the community who have lost loved ones to COVID. Names have been written in marker on the fabric strips as a way of remembering that the numbers of fatalities reported in Rhode Island each represent a person… a spouse, a parent, a child, friend or neighbor. This week, Rhode Island will see it’s 1,000th death attributed to COVID-19. 1,000 families devastated. And Newman UCC wishes to let you know that these 1,000 neighbors are not being forgotten. If you have lost a friend or loved one to COVID, you are invited to write their name on one of the 1,000 ribbons hanging on the fence line. (black sharpie works best) Please park in the parking lot and walk over to the Memorial. Unable to get to the church? Contact Pastor Timoth Sylvia at 401-434-4742 ext. 11 and a volunteer will write the name for you.

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August 2020 The Reporter

Rehoboth Ramblings by Leslie Patterson

Singing in the Rain (Sort Of) It’s a shame that wearing masks has become a political issue. This virus neither knows nor cares about anyone’s particular views. All it is capable of doing is replicating itself in another human victim and it’s very efficient at that. I find wearing a mask in the summer heat to be uncomfortable too, though not nearly as uncomfortable as being in the ICU would be. But wearing masks and not getting too close to people are at present the only ways we have to slow the transmission of this highly contagious disease. One other thing we can all do these days is to try to act civilized with each other. Everyone is stressed to different degrees, but those incidents that happened at ice cream parlors this summer are inexcusable. In a few ice cream shops from Narragansett to the Cape, some impatient and rude customers threw a fit and became abusive when they were told they were required to wear a mask while inside or to eat their ice cream outside. This is not what was meant by the old rhyme “we all scream for ice cream”. My sympathies to the young staff members who had to deal with these jerks. By the way, ice cream is not some rare, hard-to-find substance you have to fight over. It’s available in many flavors at the grocery store. I should know; I’ve been eating way too much of the sweet stuff recently. Now that it’s hot and humid outside, the trips to walking trails in the woods don’t seem so appealing due to poison ivy, ticks and mosquitoes. It’s no wonder everyone is turning to the beach. Since we want to avoid crowds this summer, we go late in the day or when the weather is cloudy and cool. Actually these are my preferences even in normal times. I’m not big on fun in the sun; I just feel like I’m going to get heat stroke. Not many beach-goers share this view. The last Saturday in June we headed to Horseneck Beach in a light rain. When we got there, it was raining harder so we just got out our umbrellas and went walking on the beach in the rain. While it would normally have been a busy day, there was no need to worry about physical distance from others that day. There were a few lifeguards finishing up their shifts and a couple of guys out here surfing and us. There was no suggestion of thunder or lightning. We weren’t so desperate as to walk on the beach in an electrical storm. A flock of gulls went marching ahead of us, hoping for handouts no doubt. They made an amusing sight. The little plover chicks are now fledglings trying out their wings, such cute little birds. Overhead a flock of terns swooped over the water. There was a stiff ocean breeze, very refreshing, even if it turned the umbrellas inside out. We walked the path behind the dunes, stopping to smell the beach roses, until turning left over a dune and back onto the beach. Though it was refreshing and uplifting, I wasn’t exactly singing in the rain like Gene Kelly’s exuberant song and dance number in the movie of the same name. It wasn’t exactly a glorious feeling, but it was a carefree feeling, and if I wasn’t exactly happy again, I was sort of happy, to be outdoors, doing something crazy and unexpected, as if I was still young and as if the world was just going on as normal, laughing and singing in the rain. We’ve also gone a few times to the much smaller Fogland Beach in Tiverton (“Fogland” sounds like the place I’ve been living in the past few months.) It is on the wide Sakonnet River (technically called a saltwater strait) and not the open ocean, so there are no real waves to speak of. We haven’t seen much fog there but we greatly enjoy watching wind-surfers and kite-surfers zipping along. Gosh, that looks like fun, if a person was strong and athletic and a lot younger than I am. Even for those who aren’t there for water sports, there’s a feeling of freedom on the beach, much needed after our long home

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The Reporter August 2020

Seekonk Public Library Seekonk Public Library is Open to the Public! The Seekonk Public Library is pleased to announce that we are now open to the public. The well-being of our community and staff is always our top priority. We have made some changes to comply with Massachusetts COVID-19 Safety Standards for Libraries. We are limiting entrance into the building. We ask that you wear a face covering while in the building, and practice social distancing. Our Meeting Rooms, Quiet Study Areas,

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and Reading Areas remain closed. Public computers are available for use by appointment only. While our Children’s Room is closed for browsing, our Children’s Room Staff is happy to assist you at any time. We are also happy to announce that our curbside pickup service will continue as well. We encourage you to call us at 508336-8230, email us at library@seekonkpl.org, or visit seekonkpl. org for more information. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Need a Soundtrack for Summer?

Join us for a Virtual Concert August 12

From the sizzle of firecrackers to the ring of the ice cream truck, summer has its own unique sound. While cooling off from the summer sun, how about a Virtual Concert right in the comfort of your own home? Using Zoom, the Seekonk Public Library is presenting a virtual concert, Virtual Concert: Acoustic Pop Favorites, on Wednesday, August 12, at 6 PM. This unique program, featuring local singersongwriter Howie Newman, includes favorite pop songs from years gone by made famous by artists like Frank Sinatra, the Beatles, Dean Martin, Elvis Presley, Neil Diamond. The show is free and open to the public through sponsorship from the Friends of the Seekonk Public Library, but registrations are required. Register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl. org to receive the login information. You must have a desktop computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone in order to “attend” the concert. If you’re not familiar with Zoom, contact the library at library@seekonkpl.org for assistance. Newman, a former sportswriter turned singer-songwriter, brings has brought his entertaining brand of music, comedy and audience participation to venues across New England. In this concert he takes us on a musical journey from the early 1900s up through the 1970s. Howie also adds trivia, background stories about the songs and a little G-rated humor here and there. You can learn more about Howie at www.howienewman.com For more event information, visit www.seekonkpl.org or email library@seekonkpl.org.

Virtual Decoupage Bracelet Craft at the Library Monday, August 17, 2020 at 6:30 PM

Make 2 decoupage bangle bracelets in this online craft program. The library will provide the unfinished bracelets and the decoupage medium. Participants will provide their own paintbrushes and decorative papers. Once registered you will receive an invitation to a Zoom meeting where we will meet to decorate our bracelets and enjoy each other’s company. For information and to register, visit seekonkpl.org, email library@seekonkpl.org, or call the library at 508-336-8230 x56141.

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Virtual Craft: Watermelon Jars 6-12th graders Thursday Aug 27, 2020 at 3:30 PM

Celebrate Summer with this cute painted jar craft. We will meet via Zoom to go step-by-step. We will supply a 16 oz mason jar and a permanent marker. Check the website to see what you need to provide. RSVP online. For information, visit seekonkpl.org/teens, email teens@ seekonkpl.org, or call the library at 508-336-8230 x56141.

August 2020 The Reporter Monday, August 24, 2020 at 6:30 PM

It’s the return of Virtual Trivia Night! Now with social distancing teams! Register your team online to receive an invitation to a Zoom meeting. You and your teammates will be placed in “breakout rooms” to collaborate on answers. There will be 5 rounds of 10 questions on all manner of topics. The winner gets bragging rights and a shout-out on our social media. For information and to register, visit seekonkpl.org, email library@seekonkpl.org, or call the library at 508-336-8230 x56141.

Online Book Discussion: The Soul of an Octopus Tuesday, August 25, 2020 at 6:00 pm

Join us for a lively discussion of The Soul of an Octopus: A Surprising Exploration into the Wonder of Consciousness by Sy Montgomery through Zoom on Tuesday, August 25, 2020 at 6:00 pm. Register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl. org to receive an invitation to the Zoom call approximately one hour before the start time. The title is available digitally through Hoopla and Overdrive, or you may request to pick up a print copy. In 2011 Sy Montgomery wrote a feature for Orion magazine entitled ‘Deep Intellect’ about her friendship with a sensitive, sweet-natured octopus named Athena and the grief she felt at her death. It went viral, indicating the widespread fascination with these mysterious, almost alien-like creatures. Since then Sy has practiced true immersion journalism, from New England aquarium tanks to the reefs of French Polynesia and the Gulf of Mexico, pursuing these wild, solitary shape-shifters. By turns funny, entertaining, touching and profound, The Soul of an Octopus reveals what octopuses can teach us about consciousness and the meeting of two very different minds. This program is free and open to all.For information: www. seekonkpl.org or Contact: library@seekonkpl.org

Be prepared to offer compassionate support in crisis: Join us for training August 26

Few feelings are harder to live with than depression, suicidal thoughts, or loss from suicide. But how many of us feel equipped to help those in our lives when they share these thoughts? How can we be better at offering emotional support in times of crisis like COVID-19 when its needed most? Join Seekonk Public Library as we host, How to Support Those at Risk for Suicide, on Wednesday, August 26, at 6 PM. This program will be presented through Zoom. Register now in the library Events Calendar and an email invitation will be sent to you approximately one hour before the program. Program registration is free and open to the public. Presented by Samaritans, in this program we will explores many facets of suicide prevention and mental health, including review of statistics, myth busting, and stigma reduction, especially during COVID-19. Additionally, this program will help attendees be able to better identify potential risk factors and warning signs related to suicide and mental health. A large portion of this workshop will focus on skill building so that those who attend can feel more confident supporting loved ones who may need support. Samaritans of Boston provides life-saving suicide prevention services and workshops, volunteer training, and grief support services. Samaritans offers a free, confidential, and anonymous helpline providing compassionate, non-judgmental support. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, you can phone or text: 877870-HOPE (4673). You can learn more about Samaritans at www. samaritanshope.org. For more event information, visit www.seekonkpl.org or email library@seekonkpl.org.

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Virtual Trivia Night at the Library!

The Reporter August 2020

LIBRARY HOURS: Library will be open normal business hours with limited services available Monday - Thursday: 9:00am - 8:00pm Friday & Saturday: 9:00am - 5:00pm Sundays: Closed PLACING ITEMS ON HOLD FOR PICK UP: Place items on hold and pick up when you’re notified that they are ready. Pickups are by appointment only. Pick is available: Monday - Thursday: 9:30am - 7:00pm Friday & Saturday: 9:30am - 4:00pm What you need to know: • Place your holds online at seekonkpl.org or call us at 508-336-8230 • Wait until you are notified that your items are ready

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Programs for Children & Families Getting Started Homeschooling Wednesday, August 12 6 PM

This presentation provides information on homeschooling for anyone who is either new to homeschooling or those who are considering it for their children. Topics to be covered will be a history and overview of homeschooling, getting started, methods for teaching, resources for teaching, and homeschooling support. Informational handouts will be available through the library and an opportunity for questions will follow the presentation. The program will be presented by Amy Faeskorn from Advocates for Home Education in Massachusetts, Inc. (AHEM), a non-profit, charitable educational organization that gathers and disseminates information about homeschooling in Massachusetts through education, advocacy, and events. The presentation will be held via Zoom, an online meeting platform. Advance registration required. You will need to have a computer, tablet or smartphone with Zoom installed. An hour before the presentation starts participants will receive an invitation to the Zoom meeting.

Storytime on the Go! Weekly in August

Create a storytime experience at home with ‘Storytime on the Go’ packets for families. Each packet includes two books with the week’s theme and an early literacy activity related to the theme. The activities will support the five early literacy practices: talking, singing, reading, writing and playing. Storytime on the Go packets are available for infants, toddlers or preschoolers and include additional items such as a goodnight story, a newly released title, a nonfiction book, a ‘librarian favorite’ pick and a magazine. Infant packets will have board books, toddler will have shorter stories and preschool packets will include books that are a bit longer for older children. For more details or to reserve packets for your child, visit seekonkpl.org’s calendar of events, email childrens@seekonkpl. org or call the children’s librarians at (508) 336-8230 x56140.

Take & Make for Kids

Weekly in August, grades 3 - 5

Each week in August we will provide a themed “Take and Make” kit for children entering grades 3 - 5. Each kit includes materials to create a themed project, additional printables to further enhance the learning experience, as well as a library book on the same subject. All materials and printables are yours to keep, only the library books need to be returned. Packs can either be picked up in the library or curbside pick up can be scheduled. Each week’s kit will be available for pickup only during the week that the pack is scheduled. Week of August 3: Watercolor pack, Week of August 10: Paleontologist Dino pack, Week of August 17: Meteorologist Extreme Weather pack, August 24: Aviator Glider pack. Quantities limited. Registration is required and limited to children entering grades 3 – 5. To register or to view detailed descriptions of each pack, visit seekonkpl.org, Calendar of Events

Kindergarten Here I Come! Starting Tuesday, August 18

This program is for children entering Kindergarten in 2020. We know things are a little different this year, and we’re here to help provide a bit of insight into what new skills your child may be focusing on in Kindergarten. Each child will receive a stack of books to borrow that focus on the educational milestones of Kindergarten, as well as some stories about the Kindergarten experience. Each kit will also include printables such as coloring sheets, counting activities, as well as a library copy of “Everything I Need to Know Before I’m 5” by Valorie Fisher for families to borrow. Register in advance to reserve your child’s packet then stop by Seekonk Library starting August 18 to pick it up. Curbside pickup may also be arranged. For more details or to register, visit seekonkpl.org Calendar of Events.

August 2020 The Reporter

Kindness Rocks - Ongoing

Kindness continues to rock in August at Seekonk Library. Children and families may stop by the Library to pick up a package of rocks that can be painted with simple messages of kindness or love. Rocks may then be left in the Kindness Rocks Garden at Seekonk Library, given to someone you know, or placed in a visible location in Seekonk to spread the idea of kindness throughout town. Each rock will have a base color of paint so that messages will be easier to read. Seekonk Library will provide the rocks but paints/paint pens or permanent markers are not provided. This program is open to everyone, even those who have previously received rocks from the Library. Registration is not required, simply stop into the library to pick up one or more packages of rocks (4 to a package). Curbside pick up may also be arranged. The need for kindness is great and communities across the world are making a difference!

Summer Reading Update

The flamingos that children earned as part of the library’s summer reading program started appearing in Seekonk yards on July 15. Families have used their imaginations to decorate their flamingos with an imagination theme in mind. Among other things, the flamingos have been feathered, painted, and given props. They’ve been made into superheroes, athletes and animals. They’ve been placed near mailboxes, in flower pots and in children’s bedrooms. The creativity is simply amazing but there are still many more flamingos waiting to be given out. Be sure to log your child’s reading time and when you reach 7 hours, you may claim your child’s flamingo. Simple! Another summer reading reminder is that the Raffle Prizes will be drawn on August 8 so be sure to get your raffle tickets in before then! Questions? childrens@seekonkpl.org or (508) 336-8230

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Nature Explorers! - Ongoing, ages 6 - 9

Children and families are invited to get outdoors, connect with nature, and become inspired caretakers of the environment by registering for Nature Explorers! This program encourages families to discover nature together with outdoor activities that everyone can take part in. Each child receives a nature kit that includes an official Explorer’s Notebook and pencil, suggested activity sheets and tips for parents on how to incorporate nature and learning into even the busiest of days. In the Explorers’ Notebook children can record interesting things they see when exploring. The notebook has space for describing in writing, or through drawings, what children have discovered outdoors. The kit also includes descriptions of 10 hands-on activities that can jump-start outdoor explorations. Activities include “Animals Among Us”, “More Trees Please”, “Fly It & Spy It”, “Seed Blaster” and “Rain Detective”. Participants may do as few or as many activities as they wish. Supporting materials, online videos and games are provided by pbsKids and the television show Plum Landing. To reserve your child’s Explorer’s Notebook visit seekonkpl.org’s calendar and select August 1.

Ed the Wizard’s Alchemy and Magic Laboratory! Through August

Enter the Alchemy Laboratory of Ed the Wizard and watch Ed amaze with magic tricks and learn the science and secrets behind the tricks and learn how to perform them to amaze your family and friends! In this prerecorded video program, watch Wizard Ed perform vanishes, transfigurations, and other feats of magic with everyday items found at home. Using three of the four Classical Greek Elements, Earth, Wind, Water, (sorry, no Fire), learn how to change the properties of water, look through solid objects, and defy gravity. Watch and learn and then you’ll be performing magic in just a few minutes! No registration necessary. Simply access the program’s link at Seekonkpl.org Calendar of Events starting August 1. Sponsored by the Seekonk Cultural Council

Fantastic Frogs and Terrific Toads Through August

Hey kids and adults! Explore and learn all about fascinating frogs and terrific toads including the adaptations of these amazing animals. This pre-recorded video program will explore what defines an amphibian, what makes them so special, and what we can do to care for these vital species. This program is presented by the Massachusetts Audubon’s Oak Knoll Wildlife Sanctuary and is sponsored by the Seekonk Cultural Council. The link to the video is available at seekonkpl.org, calendar of events, August 1. The video may be watched at anytime and will be available until the end of September.

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The Reporter August 2020

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Personal Book Shoppers - Ongoing

You’ve heard of personal shoppers for clothes, gifts and even groceries but a personal shopper for children’s books? Absolutely! Call the children’s room at Seekonk Library and we’ll ask you a few questions such as the age of your child and the types of children’s books you’re looking for (beginner readers, children’s fiction or nonfiction) and we’ll put a stack of books together for you. Then when the books are ready, we’ll call you to let you know you can can pick them up (or you can schedule curbside pickup.) If you prefer to select your own books, simply visit seekonkpl.org and search our catalog to place holds online (and for eBooks remember to search Libby and Hoopla through our website or app.) Call the library at (508) 336-8230 or visit us online at seekonkpl.org to discover your next stack of great children’s books! And remember, the library is now open to the public so you can stop in and ask the children’s librarians for assistance, too!

Seekonk Public Library Services for Children and Families

Seekonk Library has resources that support summer leisure reading. Need assistance? Email the Youth Services Librarians at childrens@seekonkpl.org or call (508) 336-8230 x56140

Books All Summer Long

Whether you’re looking for picture books, beginner readers, chapter books, or nonfiction books for your child, we have thousands of eBook titles to choose from. Available in eBook, audiobook and video formats. Browse our online collections at seekonkpl.org and scroll to the bottom of the home page for the links to OverDrive, Hoopla and Tumblebooks. You will need your SAILS library card to check books out. Don’t have a card? Contact us at childrens@seekonkpl.org or (508) 336-8230 x56140 OverDrive: Your child’s source for e-Books and audio books for every device. Discover picture books, chapter books, graphic novels and more. Explore Libby, the ‘user-friendly’ OverDrive app. seekonkpl.org. No monthly limit on checkouts. Hoopla: Instantly borrow eBooks, audiobooks, comics, movies, music and more for your child, 24/7 with your library card. Monthly limit on checkouts. TumbleBooks: Encourage reading with interactive, books and activities. Something for every age child! Featuring picture books, chapter books, graphic novels, National Geographic videos, games, puzzles & more. No app needed, nothing to download, no borrowing, just click and read. Visit seekonkpl.org and scroll to bottom of homepage for link To search our main catalog of titles (not eBooks) visit our catalog at seekonkpl.org Visit seekonkpl.org or call (508) 336-8230 for details about surrounding placing any type of materials on hold, about curbside pick up and for updated Seekonk Library news. Follow us on FaceBook and years Instagram.

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The Friends of the Seekonk Public Library News

The Friends of the Seekonk Public Library Have been chosen To receive $1.00 for every Reusable Community Bag purchased at Stop & Shop (1475 Newman Avenue, Seekonk) During the Month of August!!! Support the Friends of the Seekonk Public Library!! The Friends of the Seekonk Public Library is a 501c3 Non-Profit that raises funds to provide materials & programs not included in the Town budget for patrons of the Seekonk Library.

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The Friends of the Seekonk Public Library elected their slate of officers for FY21 at the Annual Meeting on June 30th, 2020. The new officers are: President – Ireme M. Frechette Vice President – Susan Lagalle Treasurer – Susan Rutter (re-elected) Secretary – Patricia Libby (re-elected) If you would like to learn more about the Friends of the Seekonk Public Library, please contact Irene Frechette at frechetteathome@ comcast.net

August 2020 The Reporter

News and Notes from Blanding Library By Leslie Patterson

Blanding Reopening

The Blanding Library is reopening. As of this writing, the plan is to reopen the library as of August 1, in keeping with the next phase of Massachusetts’ reopening of public places that have been closed due to the pandemic. The library will be open regular hours: Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. We will all be glad to go back to the library, but things will be a little different now. For safety, masks must be worn by all. Plexiglass shields have been installed around the front desk and everyone must observe social distance practices. Library director Whitney Pape explains that patrons are encouraged to call ahead to make an appointment to use the library, especially if they need to use the library’s public computers. Note that computers have been set up in Goff Hall auditorium to make it easier for users to keep their distance. The library is also requesting that just one person at a time be in the upstairs or downstairs section of the library. People are asked to return their library books and other items in the book drop outside rather than bring them into the building. You can still request curbside pick-up service by calling the library ahead of time. Interlibrary loan is back but borrowed items are kept in quarantine for a couple of days upon arrival and before being sent back. If you notice that the items you returned are still on your SAILS record, that’s because they haven’t been sent back just yet. You can always call the Blanding at 508-252-4236 to find out the latest or with any questions.

Children’s Activities

The Blanding has some special videos for children, available to watch for free at home this summer. To view any of these programs offered through the Blanding Library this month, go to www. blandinglibrary.net. Click on the Programs & Events Calendar and you will find links to several virtual events sponsored by the library. ED THE WIZARD: First up, Ed the Wizard presents a Tribute to Harry Potter. Celebrate Harry Potter’s birthday and experience some wizard magic in this video for all ages. While Ed the Wizard isn’t able to visit the library in person, you can watch this video through August. STORYTIME: for younger viewers, Miss Joyce reads a story on a video that is available through Aug. 26. No registration necessary for all video presentations. LOCAL AUTHOR STORYTIME: Nancy Cote, an author/illustrator from Somerset, reads her picture book “Flip-Flops”, a story about a girl named Penny who finds one flip-flop missing on her way to the beach. Video available through Aug. 21. PUPPET STORYTIME: Join Newton and Friends for a Puppet Story Time reading of Catherine Rayner’s “Augustus and His Smile.” This video is available through Aug. 27. Children’s librarian Cathy Charbonneau says: “Even though we cannot get together as we have in the past, we are still offering programs virtually. We even have a special Facebook page for Blanding Public Library’s Youth Services covering a variety of free virtual events and activities, as well as a virtual Book club for middle school readers. The Blanding has Summer Reading packets available, sponsored by the Friends of the Library. These packets contain reading logs, stickers, small notebooks and Brag Tags. Call the library at 508-252-4236 to reserve a packet for the reader in your family.”

“Thanks very much to our Friends of the Library group for sponsoring some of these programs and thank you to ALL volunteer readers, authors, illustrators, and fellow SAILS librarians who shared their programs with all.” “The Blanding has some copies of the summer reading books for those students entering grades 5 through 8 at Beckwith Middle School and those entering the high school. Give us a call to reserve your copy. We’re here to help out.” The Blanding Public Library, 124 Bay State Rd., is open Monday through Thursday from 10 am to 8 pm and Friday and Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm. Closed Sundays and holidays, including Mon. Sept. 7 for Labor Day. On the web at www.blandinglibrary. net. Phone 508-252-4236. Be sure to check back on the library’s website and Facebook page for any last minute additions to programs and events this summer.

The Reporter August 2020

Visit Our Hometown Farms Walker Street Organic Gardens • Heirloom Tomatoes • Sweet Corn • Raspberries • Local Honey • Pottery & Leaf Sculptures 92 Walker Street, Seekonk MA 401.648.5587

Souza Family Farm

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

Farm Stand Now Open! SNAP/HIP and WIC and Senior coupons accepted If we didn’t grow it, you will know it! Check our FB page for hours & updates!

www.souzafamilyfarm.com 508-245-4635 • 33 Agricultural Ave., Rehoboth, MA

Walker Street Organic Gardens

Walker Street Organic Gardens is in its 7th year! Robert Desrochers grows a variety of heirloom tomatoes, sweet corn, and raspberries at 92 Walker Street in Seekonk. He also offers local honey and his pottery and leaf sculptures. “We are all organic and we are here for the local community,” says Bob, “It is the customers’ stand. I put what they like on the table. It is the community support that keeps us going.” Bob’s prices are very reasonable and is based on the honor system. You can pick what you want, you weigh it, and then pay with cash or credit card. They are Covid-conscious with safe social distancing and plexi glass. Bob says everything is “clean, clean, clean.” Stop by today for some delicious food or beautiful pottery. They are open 7 days a week from 9am until 6pm.

Osamequin Farm

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

August 2020

The Reporter

Seekonk Human Services Message from the Director

First off, we miss you and hope you all are staying well and healthy! Secondly, where have the past few months gone? You would think with social distancing and not being able to be at the center, the months would drag. Now, we are in August! We are starting to think of ways to have people return safely to the center. We will certainly let you know when we will be reopening to full capacity. For the time being we have made some modifications. There is much to consider when reopening. Things will be different for some time, but we will make it fun and enjoyable while following guidelines. We are currently open to see clients by appointment only. If you are in need of an appointment, you can call our office and we will schedule you! Starting in August we will be hosting health clinics at our building. Along with this, we will be hosting outdoor activities and gatherings (weather permitting). All clinics and activities will require advanced sign up. During these months of the quarantine, the staff has been busy behind the scenes. We have called over 3500 seniors in town to check-in. Instead of having office appointments, we have been helping clients over the phone and through email. Seekonk Human Services was lucky enough to receive a large amount of donated masks and gift cards for our seniors and people in need. We have been busy with making sure residents who need assistance have all of the important essentials such as food and medication. Even though we have been closed to the public we have been staying extremely busy. We are looking forward to seeing all of your familiar faces again in the near future! Until then, there are many different trails around town! This is a perfect time to go and explore. If you would like more information regarding the trails, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Best, Brittney Faria Director, Seekonk Human Services

Summer Greetings from the Board of Selectmen

On behalf of the members of the Board, we would like to congratulate David Andrade on his re-election and Adam Petronio on his election to the Board in June. We would also like to thank Nelson Almeida for his dedicated service for the last 7 years. As you know the first half of 2020 has brought unprecedented challenges to our town. We would like to acknowledge the Town Administrator and all of our employees who have worked tirelessly to ensure the safety of the residents and businesses while doing their best to maintain services. The staff and volunteers at the Senior Center are particularly working hard for you! We truly appreciate your patience as we navigate these uncharted waters over the coming months while we try to safely reopen our town. If you should have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact any member of the Board. Stay safe, stay healthy, and we hope you enjoy your Summer! - Justin Sullivan, Chairman

What Seekonk Veterans and Their Spouses Need To Know

The Veterans Administration and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts offer a number of benefits to Veterans and surviving spouses. This article is not intended to be a complete list of benefits for which you may be entitled. Massachusetts Veterans, in general, are eligible for the following benefits: • Under Chapter 115 of Massachusetts General Laws (M.G.L. ch. 115), the Commonwealth provides a uniform program of financial and medical assistance for indigent Veterans and

their dependents. Qualifying Veterans and their dependents receive necessary financial assistance for food, shelter, clothing, housing supplies, and medical care in accordance with a formula, which takes into account the number of dependents and income from all sources. Eligible dependents of deceased Veterans are provided with the same benefits as they would were the veteran still living. • Note: Current monthly income limits for Chapter 115 is $2,126 for single applicants & $2,873 if married. The liquid asset limit is $5,000 for single applicants and $9,800 if married. The stimulus money received for COVID-19 is not included as income or an asset. In this current crisis, if you run out of unemployment benefits, Chapter 115 may well be a viable solution until you are able to get back to work. • Welcome Home bonus • Free tuition in all state community colleges, colleges, and universities Continued on next page ... Why is Medicare so confusing? It doesn’t need to be any longer. Medicare Made Easy, located at 111 Taunton Ave,Seekonk,MA, is your one stop shop for all your Medicare needs. We represent almost all of the companies that offer Medicare Plans in MA and RI. Please call or stop by to schedule your FREE review. Now is a great time to get ready for the Annual Enrollment period, which is just around the corner. Let’s get ready! I look forward to helping you.

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The Reporter August 2020

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• Have the word Veteran printed on their driver’s license, this just requires bringing a copy of your DD214 to the RMV when renewing your license. • Burial in the state Veterans’ cemeteries in Agawam or Winchendon or the Bourne National Cemetery and obtain grave markers • Veterans License Plates • Certain disabled Veterans and former POWs are eligible for a waiver of fees for motor vehicle registration and sales tax • Free medical care by the VA for one year upon discharge • Participate in the VA Loan Guarantee Program to purchase or refinance a home Contact your VSO for more information. Make sure your will is up to date and that the beneficiaries for any pensions and insurance policies are up to date. Keep in mind, the VA has access to Social Security and IRS records – be truthful at all times. VA Compensation Claims must be service connected. In other words, the injury/disability must have taken place while on active duty and that the condition has been chronic. A previously existing condition made worse through military service is also valid. There are exceptions such as claims regarding Agent Orange and the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune. As a guardsman or reservist, if the injury happened during a drill weekend, it doesn’t count for VA purposes unless you have a Line of Duty (LOD) document. When a claim is filed, all evidence including private medical records must be included. The VA will obtain your military medical records. If you have received medical care by the VA, note it in the appropriate section of the claim form. The VA will obtain those records as well. Evidence in support of your claim comes in many forms: • Veteran statement • Spouse statement • Buddy statement (people you served with) • Internet evidence from .mil or .gov web sites only • Military service treatment records • Private medical records (keep in mind, providers are required by law to save the records for only 7 years) Once your claim has been finalized, you will receive written notification from the VA about their decision and how they made it. If you are dissatisfied with the VA rating decision, you have the right to appeal. Veterans Charities - One last important note: Most charitable organizations that support Veterans are excellent, but many have very high overhead – meaning less money is going to Veterans, and some are downright fraudulent. Shady organizations often solicit donations, supposedly for Veterans, prior to Memorial Day and Veterans Day. However there was recently at least two Seekonk citizens that were called for a donation by a fraudulent organization. It was a political action committee that stated that 100% of the donations were going to Seekonk Veterans. Fortunately they called me before handing a check over to them. Some red flags: • An organization saying that 100% of donations that are going directly to Veterans or specifically Seekonk Veterans • An organization asking you to leave a check taped to your door • An organization with the initials PAC (Political Action Committee) • An organization that thanks you for your previous donation – when you have no recollection of ever giving in the past If you have any concerns, call or email me before donating. The Massachusetts Veterans Services Officers Association tracks Veterans related charitable organizations. For legal reasons, they don’t make their findings public, but I can check with the POC that researches these charities. Stay safe! James LaFlame, Seekonk Veterans Services Officer Office 508-336-2940 ~ Email: jlaflame@seekonk-ma.gov

August 2020

Assessor’s Office

The Town of Seekonk hopes to find all is well under the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The Town Hall, Seekonk Senior Center, another town offices remain closed to the public until further notice. The Assessor’s Office would like to inform you that all Statutory Exemption Applications are available online at: seekonk-ma. gov. Under the circumstances for the upcoming Fiscal Year 2021 (beginning July 1st, 2020) the Assessor’s Office will be sending out ALL STATUORY EXEMPTION APPLICATIONS for those that were granted last year. These applications are due by April 1, 2021, but we encourage you to apply as soon as possible, as qualifying for some of these exemptions, also qualifies you for a discount on your annual trash bill. The Assessor’s Office will also send out the FY21 Elderly &/Or Disabled Taxation Aid application to all who applied last year. If you did not apply last year, but would like to this year, please feel free to request one by calling the office. These applications are due October 1, 2020, and awards are granted by December 31, 2020. Applications can be dropped off at the white drop off box at the front door to the Town Hall which is checked on a daily basis, or mailed to the Assessor’s Office, 100 Peck Street, Seekonk, MA 02771.If you have any questions regarding the Statutory Exemption Applications or the Elderly &/or Disabled Taxation Aid Fund Application, please feel free and contact us at 508-336-2980.

Activities and Clinics

Advanced sign up is REQUIRED for all activities and health clinics. Activities will take place outdoors at the Senior Center. Outdoor activities will be capped at 25 people. Masks are not required for outdoor activities as long as proper social distancing is taking place. Please note: Outdoor Activities are weather pending. Health Clinics will take place in the Senior Center. Appointments will be required for Health Clinics. Only one person is allowed in the center at a time. All participants will be required to fill out a COVID-19 self-assessment upon arrival. Facing coverings are required to enter the facility. For all appointments and health clinics, please call 508-3368772 upon arrival to check in. *Sign ups required 24 hour in advance for all Outdoor Activities & Health Clinics. • Guided Meditation: Monday, August 3 & 17 @ 11am • Zumba: Mondays at 10am • Tai Chi: Fridays at 10:15am • Hearing Clinic : TBD, Please call Center at 508-336-8772 • Podiatry Clinic: Wednesday, August 5 @ 10am • Blood Pressure & Glucose Clinic: Wed, August 19 @ 9am

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Happy Summer from Officer Vicenzo!

Hope everyone is doing well and staying safe. It’s been a long and trying few months. This is just a reminder that you can reach out anytime with questions or concerns. With everything going on, there have been new scams circulating that seem legit. • Stimulus checks • 30 – 35 million people are still waiting. Be patient if you haven’t received it yet; the IRS will NOT call to verify or ask for financial information; the IRS will NOT send emails, text messages, websites or social media; do not open or reply; and do not give personal information. Go to IRS.gov for the latest information • Wells Fargo email scam • Stating access to account is needed to verify information, do NOT open, delete email • Department of Unemployment Assistance Scam, Pandemic Unemployment Assistance • Follow instruction to report as fraud with the information listed. call local Police Department to file a report Any questions, please feel to call. Stay Safe! Officer Vicenzo, 508-336-8123 ext. 51120

The Reporter

The Reporter August 2020

Rehoboth Council on Aging A Municipal Department of the Town

55 Bay State Road, Rehoboth, MA 02769

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

The COA remains closed to the public until further notice. Exceptions by appointment only. For pressing issues please call the Senior Center at 508-252-3372.

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

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

Tuesday Grab (Toss) and Go Lunch

Tasty Thursdays Lunch: Held on the last Thursday of the Month at 12 noon. Cost $3.00 donation. Men’s Morning Coffee: Fridays 9:00 AM Card Games: Mondays at 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM - Cribbage Wednesdays at 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM Hi-Lo Jack

Please call on Monday to reserve a timeslot. Pick up begins at 11:30. Number of meals are limited. Thank you to our Rehoboth Community Garden and all the others that donated their extra garden produce.

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

Farmers’ Market Coupons

Ladies Sewing and Quilting: Tuesdays at 10:30 AM.

Farmers’ Market Coupons will be available at the Rehoboth Senior Center by APPOINTMENT ONLY on starting on August 4th. REHOBOTH RESIDENTS ONLY, please bring a license with you. Please call Bradley Marshall at 508-252-3372 to schedule your appointment. Coupons will be given to seniors who are 60-years of age, receive fuel assistance, food stamps, MASS Health, or live in Senior Housing. All participants are required to wear a mask and practice social distancing and are required to follow all protocol set forth by the town. Gert’s Café: Lunch is served at Gert’s Cafe` Mondays at 12 Noon. $3.00 Donation Tuesday Lunch: Tuesdays from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM The COA Breakfast: Wednesdays from 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM

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Knitting and Crochet Group: Fridays at 10:00 AM

Blood Pressures & Glucose Screenings: Please contact the COA 508-252-3372 for more information. Podiatry Clinic with Dr. Marian Markowitz: Please call 508-252-3372 to schedule your appointment. Cardio Drums: Mondays @ 2:00 pm Tai Chi Classes: Tuesdays at 9:00 AM. Cost $3.00 Donation Line Dancing Classes: Tuesdays at 10:00 AM. Cost is $3.00 Donation Chair Yoga: Thursdays at 9:00 Cost $3.00 Donation Zumba: Thursdays at 10:00 AM. Cost of $3.00 Donation Meals on Wheels: Please contact Bristol Elders, Inc. at (508) 675-2101 for information on the Meals on Wheels program. Senior Citizens Club: 1st Thursday @ 12:30 & 3rd Thursday @ 12 Noon Friends of the Rehoboth Elderly meets at 10:30 AM on the 3rd Monday of the month.

Veteran’s Information and Benefits:

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

August 2020 S.H.I.N.E / OUTREACH

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

Advance Care Planning: Healthcare Directives

Advance care planning is not just about old age. At any age, a medical crisis could leave you too ill to make your own healthcare decisions. Even if you are not sick now, planning for health care in the future is an important step toward making sure you get the medical care you would want, if you are unable to speak for yourself and doctors and family members are making the decisions for you. Many Americans face questions about medical treatment but may not be capable of making those decisions, for example, in an emergency or at the end of life. This article will explain the types of decisions that may need to be made in such cases and questions you can think about now so you’re prepared later. It can help you think about who you would want to make decisions for you if you can’t make them yourself. It will also discuss ways you can share your wishes with others. Knowing who you want to make decisions on your behalf and how you would decide might take some of the burden off family and friends.

What Is Advance Care Planning?

Advance care planning involves learning about the types of decisions that might need to be made, considering those decisions ahead of time, and then letting others know—both your family and your healthcare providers—about your preferences. These preferences are often put into an advance directive, a legal document that goes into effect only if you are incapacitated and unable to speak for yourself. This could be the result of disease or severe injury—no matter how old you are. It helps others know what type of medical care you want. An advance directive also allows you to express your values and desires related to end-of-life care. You might think of it as a living document—one that you can adjust as your situation changes because of new information or a change in your health.

• Artificial nutrition (tube feeding) and artificial hydration (IV, or intravenous, fluids) • Comfort care What is CPR? Cardiopulmonary resuscitation might restore your heartbeat if your heart stops or is in a life-threatening abnormal rhythm. It involves repeatedly pushing on the chest with force, while putting air into the lungs. This force has to be quite strong, and sometimes ribs are broken or a lung collapses. Electric shocks, known as defibrillation, and medicines might also be used as part of the process. The heart of a young, otherwise healthy person might resume beating normally after CPR. Often, CPR does not succeed in older adults who have multiple chronic illnesses or who are already frail. Using a ventilator as emergency treatment. Ventilators are machines that help you breathe. A tube connected to the ventilator is put through the throat into the trachea (windpipe) so the machine can force air into the lungs. Putting the tube down the throat is called intubation. Because the tube is uncomfortable, medicines are often used to keep you sedated while on a ventilator. If you are expected to remain on a ventilator for a long time, a doctor may perform a tracheotomy or “trach” (rhymes with “make”). During this bedside surgery, the tube is inserted directly into the trachea through a hole in the neck. For long-term help with breathing, a trach is more comfortable, and sedation is not needed. People using such a breathing tube are not able to speak without special help because exhaled air does not go past their vocal cords. Using artificial nutrition and hydration near the end of life. If you are not able to eat, you may be fed through a feeding tube that is threaded through the nose down to your stomach. If tube feeding is still needed for an extended period, a feeding tube may be surgically inserted directly into your stomach. Hand feeding (sometimes called assisted oral feeding) is an alternative to tube feeding. This approach may have fewer risks, especially for people with dementia.

If you are not able to drink, you may be provided with IV fluids. These are delivered through a thin plastic tube inserted into a vein. Artificial nutrition and hydration can be helpful if you are recovering from an illness. However, studies have shown that artificial nutrition toward the end of life does not meaningfully prolong life. Artificial nutrition and hydration may also be harmful if the dying body cannot use the nutrition properly. What is comfort care at the end of life? Comfort care is anything that can be done to soothe you and relieve suffering while staying in line with your wishes. Comfort care includes managing shortness of breath; limiting medical testing; providing continued on next page...

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Advance Care Planning Decisions

Sometimes decisions must be made about the use of emergency treatments to keep you alive. Doctors can use several artificial or mechanical ways to try to do this. Decisions that might come up at this time relate to: • CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) • Ventilator use

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spiritual and emotional counseling; and giving medication for pain, anxiety, nausea, or constipation. Learn more about hospice care and other healthcare decisions you may need to make at the end of life.

Getting Started with Advance Care Planning

Start by thinking about what kind of treatment you do or do not want in a medical emergency. It might help to talk with your doctor about how your current health conditions might influence your health in the future. For example, what decisions would you or your family face if your high blood pressure leads to a stroke? You can ask your doctor to help you understand and think through your choices before you put them in writing. Discussing advance care planning decisions with your doctor is free through Medicare during your annual wellness visit. Private health insurance may also cover these discussions. If you don’t have any medical issues now, your family medical history might be a clue to help you think about the future. Talk with your doctor about decisions that might come up if you develop health problems similar to those of other family members. In considering treatment decisions, your personal values are key. Is your main desire to have the most days of life? Or, would your focus be on quality of life, as you see it? What if an illness leaves you paralyzed or in a permanent coma and you need to be on a ventilator? Would you want that? What makes life meaningful to you? If your heart stops or you have trouble breathing, would you want to undergo life-saving measures if it meant that, in the future, you could be well enough to spend time with your family? Would you be content if the emergency leaves you simply able to spend your days listening to books on tape or gazing out the window? But, there are many other scenarios. What would you decide? • If a stroke leaves you unable to move and then your heart stops, would you want CPR? What if you were also mentally impaired by a stroke—does your decision change? • What if you are in pain at the end of life? Do you want medication to treat the pain, even if it will make you more drowsy and lethargic? • What if you are permanently unconscious and then develop pneumonia? Would you want antibiotics and to be placed on a ventilator? For some people, staying alive as long as medically possible, or long enough to see an important event like a grandchild’s wedding, is the most important thing. An advance directive can help to make that possible. Others have a clear idea about when they would no longer want to prolong their life. An advance directive can help with that, too. Your decisions about how to handle any of these situations could be different at age 40 than at age 85. Or, they could be different if you have an incurable condition as opposed to being generally healthy. An advance directive allows you to provide instructions for these types of situations and then to change the instructions as you get older or if your viewpoint changes.

Making Your Advance Care Wishes Known

There are two main elements in an advance directive—a living will and a durable power of attorney for health care. There are also other documents that can supplement your advance directive. You can choose which documents to create, depending on how you want decisions to be made. These documents include: • Living will • Durable power of attorney for health care • Other advance care planning documents Living will. A living will is a written document that helps you tell doctors how you want to be treated if you are dying or permanently unconscious and cannot make your own decisions about emergency treatment. In a living will, you can say which of the procedures described in the Decisions That Could Come Up section you would want, which ones you wouldn’t want, and under which conditions each of your choices applies.

August 2020 Durable power of attorney for health care. A durable power of attorney for health care is a legal document naming a healthcare proxy, someone to make medical decisions for you at times when you are unable to do so. Your proxy, also known as a representative, surrogate, or agent, should be familiar with your values and wishes. This means that he or she will be able to decide as you would when treatment decisions need to be made. A proxy can be chosen in addition to or instead of a living will. Having a healthcare proxy helps you plan for situations that cannot be foreseen, like a serious auto accident. Some people are reluctant to put specific health decisions in writing. For them, naming a healthcare agent might be a good approach, especially if there is someone they feel comfortable talking with about their values and preferences. A named proxy can evaluate each situation or treatment option independently. Other advance care planning documents. You might also want to prepare documents to express your wishes about a single medical issue or something not already covered in your advance directive. A living will usually covers only the specific life-sustaining treatments discussed earlier. You might want to give your healthcare proxy specific instructions about other issues, such as blood transfusion or kidney dialysis. This is especially important if your doctor suggests that, given your health condition, such treatments might be needed in the future. Medical issues that might arise at the end of life include: • DNR orders • Organ and tissue donation • POLST and MOLST forms A DNR (do not resuscitate) order tells medical staff in a hospital or nursing facility that you do not want them to try to return your heart to a normal rhythm if it stops or is beating unsustainably using CPR or other life-support measures. Sometimes this document is referred to as a DNAR (do not attempt resuscitation) or an AND (allow natural death) order. Even though a living will might say CPR is not wanted, it is helpful to have a DNR order as part of your medical file if you go to a hospital. Posting a DNR next to your bed might avoid confusion in an emergency situation. Without a DNR order, medical staff will make every effort to restore your breathing and the normal rhythm of your heart. A similar document, called a DNI (do not intubate) order, tells medical staff in a hospital or nursing facility that you do not want to be put on a breathing machine. A non-hospital DNR order will alert emergency medical personnel to your wishes regarding measures to restore your heartbeat or breathing if you are not in the hospital. Organ and tissue donation allow organs or body parts from a generally healthy person who has died to be transplanted into people who need them. Commonly, the heart, lungs, pancreas, kidneys, corneas, liver, and skin are donated. There is no age limit for organ and tissue donation. You can carry a donation card in your wallet. Some states allow you to add this decision to your driver’s license. Some people also include organ donation in their advance care planning documents. At the time of death, family members may be asked about organ donation. If those close to you, especially your proxy, know how you feel about organ donation, they will be ready to respond. There is no cost to the donor’s family for this gift of life. If the person has requested a DNR order but wants to donate organs, he or she might have to indicate that the desire to donate supersedes the DNR. That is because it might be necessary to use machines to keep the heart beating until the medical staff is ready to remove the donated organs. Brain donation is different from other organ donation in that the brain is donated to scientific research. By studying the brains of people who have died — both those who had a brain disorder and those who were healthy during life — researchers learn more about how particular diseases affect the brain and how we might better treat and prevent them.

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POLST and MOLST forms provide guidance about your medical care preferences in the form of a doctor’s orders. Typically you create a POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment) or MOLST (Medical Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment) when you are near the end of life or critically ill and know the specific decisions that might need to be made on your behalf. These forms serve as a medical order in addition to your advance directive. They make it possible for you to provide guidance that healthcare professionals can act on immediately in an emergency. A number of states use POLST and MOLST forms, which are filled out by your doctor or sometimes by a nurse practitioner or physician’s assistant. The doctor fills out a POLST or MOLST after discussing your wishes with you and your family. Once signed by your doctor, this form has the same authority as any other medical order. Check with your state department of health to find out if these forms are available where you live.

Be Prepared

What happens if you have no advance directive or have made no plans and you become unable to speak for yourself? In such cases, the state where you live will assign someone to make medical decisions on your behalf. This will probably be your spouse, your parents if they are available, or your children if they are adults. If you have no family members, the state will choose someone to represent your best interests. Always remember: an advance directive is only used if you are in danger of dying and need certain emergency or special measures to keep you alive, but you are not able to make those decisions on your own. An advance directive allows you to make your wishes about medical treatment known. It is difficult to predict the future with certainty. You may never face a medical situation where you are unable to speak for yourself and make your wishes known. But having an advance directive may give you and those close to you some peace of mind.

The Rehoboth Council on Aging A Municipal Department of the Town

Mission: The Rehoboth Council on Aging shall coordinate and carry out programs designed to meet the needs, problems and benefits for the aging population of Rehoboth, and shall do so in coordination with the Programs of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The Rehoboth Council on Aging shall: a. Provide, coordinate and link available resources to help meet the needs of the Town of Rehoboth’s elders. b. Carry out programs and services that range from information on community education, referrals, outreach, transportation, Meals on Wheels, health screenings, inter-generational activities, crafting programs and other programs beneficial to our seniors. c. Provide information on health care plans from the Health Connector, Medicare, MassHealth (Medicaid) and other State and Federal Assistance programs.

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The Reporter August 2020

SCHOOL NEWS Dighton-Rehoboth Schools May Go to Remote Learning

By Joe Siegel The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District will likely go to remote learning when the new school year begins in September. Kristin Donahue, speaking on behalf of the Superintendent’s Advisory Committee, said in person instruction was “not realistic” and “cost prohibitive” due to the mandates required by the CDC and the state’s Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). “This is a life and death situation that we don’t know about,” Donahue said Thursday.”We have to do what’s right to keep our students and our staff alive.” A preliminary reopening plan has to be submitted to the state’s Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), along with the findings of a feasibility study before July 31. A comprehensive plan is due to DESE on August 10. A hybrid model consisting of classroom instruction and remote learning had been under consideration. The school committee will vote on which plan to send to DESE on August 6. Education Commissioner Jeff Riley announced the start of school in Massachusetts will be delayed by 10 days to allow for more educator training. The school year will be reduced to 170 days. The district instituted remote learning last March after the outbreak of coronavirus throughout the state.

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Options for Reopening Seekonk Schools

By Joe Siegel Seekonk School officials are considering three options for the 2020-2021 academic year, including in-person instruction, a hybrid model, and remote learning. Factors to be considered in the process include student and staff safety, instruction, physical space, and transportation. A preliminary reopening plan has to be submitted to the state’s Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), along with the findings of a feasibility study before July 31. A comprehensive plan is due to DESE on August 10. The details will then be released to the public. “I think almost everyone (including parents, teachers/staff, principals, and myself) prefers in-person instruction over remote learning, but to be safe and to keep proper distancing, full in-person instruction may not be able to happen in time for the opening of school in September,” Superintendent Rich Drolet said in an e-mail message to the Reporter. In a video sent out to parents, Drolet explained the reopening process and the procedures students and staff will be expected to adhere to. “We’re trying to make the best decision and smart decisions, but it’s very complex,” Drolet said. Education Commissioner Jeff Riley announced the start of school in Massachusetts will be delayed by 10 days to allow for more educator training. Students in kindergarten through 12th grade will start in the middle of September, and the school year will be reduced to 170 days. Massachusetts Teachers Association President Merrie Najimy explained on the association’s website that the delay would “give educators crucially important time to plan.” Preventing the spread of Covid-19 will be a top priority for administrators and faculty when Seekonk schools do reopen. “If we have all students back in school, there’s a significant amount of training we’re going to need to give staff and to students because it’s going to look different than it ever has before,” said Zachary

August 2020 Waddicor, Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning, noting if students have to wear masks, they won’t be wearing them the entire school day. Staggered start and end times for the schools will also be considered in an effort to maintain social distancing. “Some of our decisions may be based on what transportation guidelines we get,” Woddicor noted.

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News from Commissioner Jeffrey C. Riley & the MA Department of Elementary and Secondary Education

On the Desktop – June 10, 2020 Additional Guidance on Fall Reopening Plans Dear Superintendents, Charter School Leaders, Leaders of Approved Special Education Schools,and Collaborative Leaders, After continued discussions with the field, I am writing to provide you with additional guidance on fall reopening plans. As noted in our initial fall guidance, I am requiring districts to submit one reopening plan that will address health and safety requirements and different student learning models — in-person, hybrid, and remote learning. The plan must also describe how special populations will be effectively served within each of the models. This reopening plan is due to DESE by Friday, July 31, and we will provide a template next week. At this time, given the current low transmission rates of COVID-19 in the state, and pursuant to emergency regulations recently passed by the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, we are asking districts and schools to prioritize in-person instruction. Specifically, we have asked districts to focus on assessing the feasibility of bringing back students in-person, and those feasibility studies should be taking place in your districts now. While you continue working to flesh out these models, I am requesting that you hold off on announcing any final decisions about what reopening will look like for the fall in your district until early August. While preparations for the fall must move forward, we are still waiting for key information that will directly impact the best fit reopening model for each community. This includes more information about financial resources that may be available, including the possibility of a second federal stimulus package, and any change in local COVID-19 transmission rates. I understand that local communities are eager for districts to finalize their reopening plans as soon as possible. At the same time, I am confident that our families and students will be better served by a thoughtful planning process that works first to explore options and takes in critical additional information before local plans are finalized. To support your planning, we have attached our first installment of answers to frequently asked questions. We will continue to release FAQs with updates and covering additional topics as more details become available. Thank you for all of your tireless work on behalf of our students. Sincerely, Jeffrey C. Riley Commissioner

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Department of Elementary & Secondary Education

includes masks/face coverings, physical distancing, handwashing/ sanitizing, and staying home when sick. 4. What are the guidelines for safe distancing requirements between students? Medical experts advising DESE have stated the greater the physical distancing the better, but that the minimum acceptable distance is three feet, when in combination with face coverings and other measures. Establishing a minimum physical distance of three feet between students when face coverings are worn is informed by evidence and substantiated by guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the World Health Organization. 5. Who needs to wear a mask or face covering, and when do they have to be worn? Students in second grade and above, and adults, including educators and staff, are required to wear a mask/face covering that covers their nose and mouth at all times, except for designated breaks, which should occur throughout the day. Breaks should occur when students can be six feet apart and ideally outside or at least with the windows open. Students in kindergarten and grade 1 are strongly encouraged to wear masks or face shields. Masks/face coverings must be worn by everyone on the bus during school bus transportation. Teachers and parents should reinforce mask-wearing. 6. Are there exceptions to wearing masks or face coverings? Exceptions to mask/face covering requirements must be made for those for whom it is not possible due to medical conditions, disability impact, or other health or safety factors. Face shields may be an option for students with medical or behavioral challenges who are unable to wear masks/face coverings. 7. Can parents send children to school without a mask/face covering if they do not have access to one? Masks/face coverings should be provided by the student/family, but schools should make available face masks for students who need them.

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” ~Nelson Mandela

Frequently Asked Questions by Parents Models of Learning

Fall Reopening Frequently Asked Questions, as of July 10, 2020 Frequently Asked Questions – All Audiences 1. What is the overall goal for K-12 education in academic school year 2020-21? Our goal is the safe return of as many students as possible to in-person school settings, to maximize learning and address our students’ holistic needs. 2. Why are DESE and the medical community recommending in-person learning? After weeks of discussion with many stakeholders, including members of our Return-to-School Working Group, infectious disease physicians, pediatricians, and other public health experts, and given low transmission rates of COVID-19 in the state, there is a clear consensus that in-person learning is the preferred model. While remote learning has improved over the course of the school closures, there is no substitute for in-person instruction when it comes to the quality of students’ academic learning. In-person school plays an equally important role in supporting students’ social-emotional needs, including their mental and physical health, and mitigating the impacts of trauma. 3. What safety measures will be in place for students and staff? It is important to note that the American Academy of Pediatrics has affirmed that children, particularly younger children, are less likely than adults to be infected with COVID-19. Furthermore, if they become infected, it appears children may not have the same transmission potential as adults. The health and safety requirements for school reopening use a combination of strategies that, taken together, will substantially reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19 in schools. This combination approach

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1. Can parents choose whether to send their children to school or keep them learning remotely? Parents/caregivers can choose to send their children to inperson school or keep them at home learning remotely. In-school attendance is highly encouraged to promote student academic progress because there is no substitute for the attention and engagement possible with in-person learning. 2. If my child starts the school year remotely can I send them back to in-person learning? Yes, parents can choose to send their children back to school to in-person learning if they started the year remotely. Parents and school districts are highly encouraged to be in close communication about any changes. When parents/caregivers communicate early that a child is returning to school, it allows for more thoughtful planning by their child’s school. More information may follow. 3. What is the difference between homeschooling and remote learning? Remote learning means learning provided by the school district that happens outside of the traditional classroom because the student and teacher are separated by distance. Remote learning may be synchronous or asynchronous. Remote learning may include but is not limited to online learning (603 CMR 27.08). Parents may also choose to homeschool their children, a type of private education. For a child of compulsory school age, the homeschooling program must be approved in advance by the superintendent or school committee of the district of residence.

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4. After in-person instruction resumes, does a student need to submit a doctor’s note if they need to be out for personal health reasons?

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August 2020 State law dictates that school committees set local attendance policy. Given the current health crisis, DESE does not recommend requiring a physician’s note for attendance-related purposes for personal health reasons. If the student’s parents/caregivers are seeking home or hospital educational services, the regular home/ hospital process (http://www.doe.mass.edu/prs/ta/hhep-qa.html) must be followed, including the completion of the Physician’s Affirmation of Need for Temporary Home or Hospital Education for Medically Necessary Reasons, which requires a physician’s signature. Additional requirements for return will be in place for a student or staff who has tested positive for COVID-19. 5. What is the proper handwashing technique? When handwashing, individuals should use soap and water to wash all surfaces of their hands for at least 20 seconds, wait for visible lather, rinse thoroughly, and dry with an individual disposable towel. 6. What is the proper hand sanitizing technique? Hand sanitizer should be applied to all surfaces of the hands and in sufficient quantity that it takes 20 seconds of rubbing hands together for the sanitizer to dry. Hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent ethanol or at least 70 percent isopropanol content can be used. 7. Is hand sanitizing an acceptable replacement for handwashing? Is handwashing (not hand sanitizing) necessary? While handwashing with soap and water is the best option, alcohol-based hand sanitizer (at least 60 percent ethanol or at least 70 percent isopropanol) may be utilized when handwashing is not available. As has always been the case, hands should be washed whenever hands are visibly soiled and after using the bathroom. 8. What do I do if I have other questions not answered here?

Parents/caregivers may email questions to COVID19K12ParentInfo@mass.gov.

Bishop Feehan Third Quarter Honor Roll

The Reporter

Hornbine School Museum Open in August

At this writing, we expect to have The Hornbine School Museum open to visitors on the 2nd and 4th Sundays (August 9th &23rd) from 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Please check our Facebook page at “Hornbine School Museum” before visiting. We will allow restricted access to the building using 6 ft. distancing. Please wear a mask and be mindful of safe health practices. The Hornbine School Museum is located in the south east corner of Rehoboth at 144 Hornbine Road across from Baker Road.

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Vice Principal for Academics, Anne Kennedy, is proud to announce the Honor Roll students for the third quarter. Honor Roll is a recognition of high performing students based on the student’s overall average in any given quarter, regardless of the levels of their classes. Bishop Feehan has three levels of Honor Roll. First Honors is awarded to students whose overall average in that quarter is grade 93.00 or higher, Second Honors is grade 90.00 or higher, and Third Honors is 85.00 or higher, with no individual grade below 80.

Now Enrolling 2020-2021!

REHOBOTH:

First Honors: Olivia Castro, 12; Sean O’Brien, 12; Connor Platt, 12 Second Honors: Sophia Silva, 9; Una Soliday, 9; Meriel Assi, 10; Malayna Bizier, 10; Caitlin Brawley, 10; Alexander Cote, 10; Samuel DeMoura, 10; Noah Ferreira, 10; Faith Abbott, 11; Maryssa Bizier, 12; Hannah Ramer, 12 Third Honors: Devin Andrade, 10; Emma Chapman, 10; Cormac Masterson, 10; Ryan Rebelo, 10; Paul Castro, 12; Megan Reed, 12

SEEKONK:

First Honors: Evan Jackson, 9; Emma Leeuwenburgh, 9; Jordan Carreiro, 11; Amelia Mignacca, 11; Matthew Anghinetti, 12; Emma Patterson, 12 Second Honors: Allel Azzouz, 9; Matthew Cunha, 9; Jonathan Mignacc, 9; Lydia Nassef, 9; Jack Hudson, 10; Victoria Santos, 10; Loukas Bitsakis, 11; Ethan Gallishaw, 11; Jessica Leonard, 12 Third Honors: Benjamin Almeida, 9; Grace Borden, 11; Carlos Botelho, Jr., 11; Jackson Leonard, 11; Ryan Gill, 12

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The Reporter August 2020

scouting Around Local Boy Scouts Honor Healthcare Workers with 800 Care Packages

The Narragansett Council, Boy Scouts of America hosted a Gratitude Parade for hospital workers at Rhode Island Hospital and Kent Hospital on Monday July 13 to recognize the dedication, bravery and compassionate care of essential workers. Dozens of Scouts and volunteer leaders from Pack 4 & Troop 55 Riverside, Pack 1 & Troop 2 Barrington, Troop 1 Seekonk & Pack 1913 West Warwick helped distribute 800 S’mores Care Packages to front-line workers, featuring a variety of s’more treats. This was the largest food donation to a Rhode Island hospital during the pandemic. The East Providence, Cranston and Warwick Fire Departments also joined the parade along with the Scouts, their leaders, and Narragansett Council CEO Tim McCandless. This Gratitude Parade and other similar “Good Turns” have raised $136,000 over the past four months to fund the Council’s diverse programming. The parade was part of the 25th Annual Distinguished Citizens Awards Celebration, which raises funds to ensure that youth from low-income households can enjoy the Scouting advantage through the Narragansett Council’s Scoutreach program. In the past 25 years, more than $6,000,000 has been raised to enrich the lives of 20,000 low-income youth in the Scoutreach program. Through Scoutreach, over 1,100 Scouts annually enjoy exciting weekly

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meetings, monthly outdoor activities, work with trained leaders, participate in virtual Scouting programs, and receive recognition for their achievements. To learn about how you can donate to the Council, click here. Photos: Dozens of Scouts from across the Council joined Narragansett Council CEO Tim McCandless (photo 2) in honoring healthcare workers

24 New Badges Prepare Girl Scouts to be Ambitious and Decisive Leaders

Girl Scouts of Southeastern New England and Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) today announced 24 new badges designed to help girls practice ambitious leadership in the crucial areas of automotive engineering, STEM career exploration, entrepreneurship, and civics, many of which remain male-dominated. In a year of unprecedented global change, our country’s need for strong, broad-minded, and decisive leadership has never been greater. Through new and existing programming, Girl Scouts equips the next generation of female change-makers with the breadth of knowledge, skills, and experiences they need to take charge and do good for the world, both now and in the future. The new Girl Scout badges include: • Entrepreneurship (grades K–12) • STEM Career Exploration (grades 2–8) • Automotive Engineering (grades K–5) • Civics (grades K–12) Steady leadership is essential during a crisis such as COVID-19, from fostering trust and showing compassion, to managing challenges with agility, to evaluating outcomes of decisions. The Girl Scout program is proven to develop strong and effective leaders— among many positive outcomes, Girl Scouts are much likelier than non-Girl Scouts to take an active role in decision making (80% vs. 51%), which is a critical aspect of leadership. “Now more than ever, it’s critical that we have strong leaders who can make informed decisions that make the world a better, safer place,” said GSUSA CEO Sylvia Acevedo. “During our current health crisis, the world leaders who have been among the most decisive and effective in addressing the pandemic have been women. With these new badge experiences in STEM, entrepreneurship, and the critically important subject of civics, Girl Scouts is continuing to build the transformational female leaders of today and the future and showing girls the power they have to truly change the world.” Girl Scouts has made free self-guided activities from select new and existing programming available digitally to the public through Girl Scouts at Home™, keeping families engaged and connected to their communities. Girls can further engage with the badges and topics through online videos, activities, or special live virtual events. Members can access a suite of Girl Scouts’ programming digitally through the Volunteer Toolkit, including troop meeting plans and other resources to help girls earn badges and awards. In addition, beginning this summer, all councils will also have the opportunity to host their own Girl Scout Cyber Challenge sponsored by Raytheon Technologies, enabling middle and high school girls to learn crucial cybersecurity skills as they compete in challenges such as running traceroutes and identifying phishing schemes. The Cyber Challenge prepares girls to pursue careers in computer science and cybersecurity. To join or volunteer, visit www.girlscouts.org/join.

August 2020

The Reporter

IN MEMORIAM David Randall “Randy” Greene

David Randall “Randy” Greene David Randall “Randy” Greene, 55, of Seekonk, MA passed away surrounded by family on July 12, 2020 after a long battle with cancer. Randy will be forever remembered by his wife and best friend Christina (Cassidento) Greene and their children Kaila and John, his mother Joyce, his brothers Toby (Evie) and Dan (Sheila), brother-in-law John Cassidento (Jen) as well as his cherished nieces and nephews, Addison, Owen, Ben, Maggie, Nora, Anna and Sophie and his extended family, dear friends, colleagues and neighbors. The son of Joyce (Randall) Greene and the late Robert Osbourn Greene of Barrington RI, Randy was born on July 29th, 1964 and graduated from Barrington High School in 1982. He served in the United States Air Force from 1984-89 and went on to graduate in 1991 from Wentworth Institute of Technology and East Coast Aero Tech. He worked at Delta Airlines as an aircraft mechanic in Atlanta, GA before moving back to the area to work at Airgas as a cryogenic specialist for the last 22 years, where he was a friend and mentor to many. Alongside his career, Randy was an adoring husband and a completely engaged and loving father. Aside from making Christina laugh daily for nearly 30 years, his greatest joy was being a dad. He took so much delight in coaching soccer, being a Cub Scout master, volunteering at swim meets, helping with school projects, orchestrating family campouts, biking trips, and so much more. He was an avid fisherman, prowling Narragansett Bay, Block Island Sound and the waters surrounding the Elizabeth Islands for bass and tuna on the Logey Pogey. His happy place was Prov-

incetown, MA. He loved fishing the shores at first light, campfires on the beach, and sitting on the deck enjoying a cocktail with his family and friends. Randy was very approachable and funny, and made friends easily. He was the most honest, ethical, and genuinely good person you were lucky enough to meet. Not to mention, “handy Randy” could design, build, fix, or modify anything. Notable achievements Randy was most proud of include Eagle Scout, various Air Force Achievement medals and awards, and church Confirmand Mentor and Deacon. Randy was a 20-year member of the Seekonk Congregational Church-UCC. He is fondly remembered for his efforts with the annual Harvest Supper and Corned Beef and Cabbage fundraising dinners, serving many thousands of happy diners over the years. Over the past few years, his tolerance, strength, patience and positive attitude in navigating the increasingly difficult circumstances of his cancer were an inspiration to those around him. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Randy’s memory to Seekonk Congregational Church, 600 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk, MA 02771 and HopeHealth Hospice & Palliative Care 1085 North Main Street, Providence, RI 02904. Memorial service arrangements are pending.

12th Anniversary August 3, 2008

51st Birthday Remembrance August 8, 2020

Joseph M. Traficante

Loving you is easy. We do it everyday. Missing you is a heartache that never goes away. Happy 51st Birthday, Big Guy! ~YOUR LOVING FAMILY

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

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

The Reporter August 2020

IN MEMORIAM Richard A. Grenier

Richard A. “Dick” Grenier, 67, formerly of Rehoboth died Friday July 17, 2020 in Fort Gibson, Oklahoma. Born in Woonsocket and raised in Manville he was a son of the late Leonard and Alice (Garceau) Grenier. He resided in Rehoboth for many years. Dick was a graduate of Lincoln High School Class of 1970. He attended Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) and went on to earn his Bachelor’s degree in Management from Johnson & Wales University. Dick was a veteran of the United States Air Force serving from 1971-1976 and was stationed in Okinawa, Japan. Dick was employed with Raytheon Corporation in Portsmouth, RI as an acoustic engineer, in the submarine division Richard A. Grenier for over 35 years before retiring in 2013. Dick served the community as the Veterans Affairs representative for the Town of Rehoboth. He was active with the Boy Scouts of America as Assistant Scoutmaster. He also volunteered his time at the Rehoboth senior center. Dick enjoyed the outdoors, especially fishing. Some of Dick’s other interests included cars, music and science fiction. Dick was totally committed to his family and friends. He treasured every moment spent with those who were closest to his heart, his kids and grandchildren. Dick is survived by a son Jason Grenier and his companion Amy Wilson of Westport, and three daughters Nicole Grenier and her companion Kenneth Bouche of Riverside, Erin St. Pierre and her husband Jeffrey of Riverside and Sara Nett and her husband Peter of Attleboro. He was the proud grandfather of Evan, Lucas, Kenzie, Zachary and Leonard. He is also survived by his brother David Grenier and his wife Jo Ryan of Peoria, AZ and his former wife of 40 years Carol (McNulty) Grenier of Rehoboth. His Mass of Christian Burial will be Monday August 3, 2020 at 10:00 am in St James Church Division St. Manville. Burial with military honors will follow in St. James Cemetery, Manville. Visiting hours are Sunday from 4-7 pm in the Menard-Lacouture Funeral Home, 127 Carrington Ave. Woonsocket. Please note all public health guidelines will be followed including masks, distancing and capacity. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association RI Chapter 1 State St. Suite 200 Providence RI. 02908 or www.heart.org. www.menardfuneralhome.com

Christopher L. Callan

Christopher L. Callan Christopher L. Callan, 49, of Newport and Pawtucket, died unexpectedly on July 18, 2020. He was a graduate of Rogers High School, Newport in 1989. Christopher was on active duty with the U.S. Army for 11 years, seeing service in Haiti, Germany and Kosovo, and later, as a member of U.S. Army Special Forces, in numerous countries in East Asia. Upon returning to Rhode Island in 2006, he joined the East Greenwich Police Department, while continuing to serve in the Rhode Island National Guard until his passing. As a National Guardsman, he served one combat tour in Afghanistan, earning a Bronze Star. He was known for an encyclopedic memory, a ready infectious smile and a quirky sense of humor. His outgoing personality and uncanny ability to personally connect with almost anyone ensured that he had a vast array of friends both domestically and within the international military paratrooper/special forces communities. He is survived by three children: Rosemary, Margaret and Samuel, his former wife of 21 years, Sarah, all of East Greenwich; his parents Dennis and Melinda Callan of Newport; his two sisters: Riley Correia of Middletown, RI and Katherine McCormick of McKinney, TX; and his companion Stephanie Georgia, of Pawtucket. A private funeral with military honors will be in the Rhode Island Veterans Cemetery at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers the family asks that contributions in Christopher’s memory be made to the Unquiet Professional (theunquietprofessional.org), P.O. Box 761 Wakefield, RI 02880, an organization dedicated to serving Gold Star Families and Veterans.

August 2020

The Reporter

John T. Kelleher “Jack”

John T. Kelleher “Jack” Seekonk – John T. Kelleher “Jack,” 82, passed away peacefully at home with family by his side on Sunday, July 26, 2020. He was the beloved husband of Barbara Ann (Ferrari) Kelleher for 61 years. Born in Providence, he was a son of the late John J. and Rose (O’Rourke) Kelleher. John attended the former Holy Name School, Providence, LaSalle Academy, and Providence College, where he earned his

bachelor’s degree. He went on to serve his country in the U.S. Army and then began a career with CVS, where he became the Support Services Manager at CVS Corporate Headquarters for many years until his retirement. John was a devout Catholic and longtime parishioner of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church in Seekonk where he served as a Lector and Eucharistic Minister. He was also a longtime member of the parish’s council of the Knights of Columbus. Above all, he was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather who will be lovingly remembered by all whose lives he touched over the past 82 years. Besides his loving wife, he leaves three daughters, Kileen Mitchell and her husband, David, of Rehoboth, Patricia Lucci and her husband, Steven, of Coventry and Anne-Marie Bresnahan and her husband, Thomas, of Attleboro; six grandchildren, Kelly, Kristen, David, Jr., Ann-Marie, Alexa and Mitchell. He was the brother of the late Joseph Kelleher, Rev. James Kelleher and Edwin Kelleher. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Thursday, July 30th at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church in Seekonk. Interment

followed at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in East Providence. Calling Hours and flowers were respectfully omitted. Memorial gifts to HopeHealth Hospice & Palliative Care RI, 1085 North Main St., Providence, RI 02905 would be appreciated. Arrangements were entrusted to William W. Tripp Funeral Home, Pawtucket. For online condolences: TRIPPFUNERALHOME.com

Rehoboth

• Alice E. (Ridley) Waterman, 98, of Rehoboth passed away on Wednesday, July 8, 2020 at the Hope Hospice & Palliative Care Center in Providence.

Seekonk

• Nancy Carol Borges, age 93, formerly of Seekonk, died May 15, 2020 at Sacred Heart Nursing Home. • Barbara I. (Gobin) Harrington, 95, of Seekonk, formerly of North Attleboro, passed away at home on Sat, July 4, 2020. • Thomas M. Burke, 72, of Seekonk, passed away on Wed, July 8, 2020.

William W. Tripp & Cheetham Funeral Homes Compassionately serving the families of Rehoboth and Seekonk for generations Conveniently located at 1008 – 1012 Newport Avenue, Pawtucket, RI 401-722-2140 | www.trippfuneralhome.com

“United We Stand, Divided We Fall”

Jason K. Landry of Rehoboth

Daniel A. Laneres

Sandra M. Reis Fala Português

Michael S. Sladen

The Reporter July 2020

Food & Dining Take the Fear Out of Fish

7 tips for buying, storing and cooking frozen seafood (Family Features) With more time spent in the kitchen, people are increasingly looking to different ingredients for inspiration. That includes seafood - sales of canned and frozen seafood are 37% higher than last year, according to IRI Worldwide. If you’re not familiar with buying and cooking seafood, there’s nothing to fear. Frozen seafood is an affordable, nutritious and sustainable protein that can earn a spot in your kitchen. Good food

Chinese Restaurant

TAI PAN

Full Bar Year Round! LUNCHEON SPECIALS! Delivery Available ($15.00 min., Local Area)

Mon - Thurs - 11:30am-9:00pm Fri. & Sat. - 11:30am - 10:00pm, Sun. - 12:30pm - 9:00pm

1641 Fall River Ave, Rt. 6 Seekonk, MA

Tel: 508-336-9090 • Fax: 508-336-9530

pioneers chef Nora Pouillon, a James Beard Lifetime Achievement Award winner, and her daughter, Blue Circle Foods product director Nina Damato, offer these recommendations for sustainable frozen seafood, from defrosting techniques to cooking tips and seasonal pairings. Why buy frozen? Frozen seafood is just as high quality as fresh since modern techniques like flash-freezing preserve fish moments after it is caught. Stores generally carry a larger selection of frozen fish and it’s typically less expensive than fresh seafood. Because frozen fish keeps longer, you can find greater variety and more sustainable options. Plus, it’s convenient - use exactly the portion you need and save the rest for later - making it perfect for meal planning. What about taste? When done right, freezing locks in flavor and nutrients, so you can enjoy frozen fish that’s every bit as delicious as when it was caught. How long will it last? Frozen fish is safe indefinitely, but for best quality, the USDA recommends using frozen fish within 3-8 months after purchase. How can you thaw frozen fish safely? If you know you’ll be serving fish, pop frozen fillets in the fridge the night before or the morning you plan to cook them. How should you season frozen fish? Salt and pepper can enhance seafood’s flavor. If you’re feeling bold, a simple glaze or a crust of seasonings can elevate your fish to the next level. What pairs well with frozen fish? Frozen fish is a versatile protein that plays well with many recipes. Fatty fish like salmon

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Noon- 9pm Monday thru Saturday; Sunday Noon – 7pm LaCollina is located at 82 Hillside Ave., Rehoboth MA 508.252.5563 www.hillsidecountryclub.com Make a reservation today!

July 2020 The Reporter

brings out the flavors in seasonal veggies including zucchini and summer squash, while leaner fillets like cod can be breaded or used in tacos. Fish also pairs excellently with a variety of wines. The trick is to serve delicate fish with light wines and heartier fish with richer, more substantial wines. If you’re in the mood for salmon, try Pouillon’s Pumpkin Seed Crusted Salmon. This recipe also works well with cod and can be served with a rosé for a tasty seasonal pairing. To learn more about frozen seafood and purchase sustainable fish, visit bluecirclefoods.com.

Cool, refreshing grapes are an easy anytime snack, so be sure to include California grapes on every summertime grocery list to have handy for snacking and light summer recipes. Store unwashed in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, rinse immediately before eating or cooking, and enjoy! For more great grilling ideas download the e-cookbook “Get Grilling with Grapes!” from grapesfromcalifornia.com.

Pumpkin Seed Crusted Salmon

Recipe courtesy of chef Nora Pouillon • 2 cups frozen sweet corn • 1 can (4 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained • 1 red bell pepper, diced • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin • 1/2 teaspoon smoked chili (optional) • salt, to taste • pepper, to taste • 1 cup pumpkin seeds • 4 teaspoons pumpkin seed oil or olive oil • 2 tablespoons sliced scallions • 2 Blue Circle Frozen Atlantic Salmon Fillets

Join Us for Indoor or Outdoor Seating Take Out Available

*DAILY SPECIALS

Preheat oven to 375 F. Mix corn, black beans, bell pepper, cilantro, ground cumin and smoked chili, if desired. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Spread onto baking dish. In blender, pulse pumpkin seeds, oil, sliced scallions and salt and pepper, to taste, until paste forms. Coat frozen salmon fillets with pumpkin seed paste. Place fillets in baking dish on top of black bean and corn salad. Bake 25-30 minutes. Source: Blue Circle Foods

Great Grilling Ideas for Easy Home-Cooked Meals

(BPT) - Any summer day is the perfect day to fire up the grill. Simple or elaborate, gas or charcoal - any type of grill can impart flavors and textures that make home-cooked meals extra special. No need to cook indoors and heat up the kitchen when the outdoor grill is ready to go. Enjoy outdoor recreation time when Steak with Grapes and Stilton is on the menu. Ready in under 15 minutes, this easy entrÃ©e pairs grilled flank steak with greens, Stilton cheese, grapes and a light vinaigrette dressing. The quintessential summer salad, this will please diners of all ages. Keep the grill hot for making Grilled Grape, Strawberry and Mango Skewers with Honey-Orange Glaze for dessert. Grilling caramelizes the natural sugars in fruit to concentrate the natural sweetness and intensify fruit flavors. Serve warm right off the grill or prepare ahead of time for a delicious, guilt-free treat.

*HOMEMADE DESSERTS Hours: Sun-Thurs 11:30-8pm; Fri-Sat 11:30-9pm 431 Winthrop Street, Rte 44,Taunton MA • 508-823-8664 1666 Diamond Hill Rd, Cumberland RI • 401-305-3916 520 Foundry Street, Easton MA• 508-297-0327 www.lafamiliarestaurants.com

508-761-6854

12 Ft Famous for our Wings and Pulled Pork HD TV

Over 80 Flavors of Sauce Huge Salads • 16 Beers on Draft

Open Tuesday-Sunday 11:00am-9:00pm Dine-In or Takeout 540 Central Ave, Rte 152 • Seekonk MA WWW.BONEYARDBARBECUE.COM

Hours: Sun-Thurs 11am-11pm; Fri & Sat 11am-12am

The Reporter July 2020

Going Out? Staying In? Find Good Food Right Here. Grilled Flank Steak with Grapes and Stilton • 1 flank steak (2 pounds) • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper • 1 1/2 tablespoons red wine vinegar • 1 tablespoon chopped shallot • 1/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil • 2 bunches watercress, trimmed (8 cups) • 1/2 cup crumbled Stilton or other blue cheese • 2 cups red California grapes, halved

Directions Preheat a grill to high and oil the grates. Sprinkle the steak with salt and pepper. In a small blender or food processor, combine the vinegar, shallot, mustard and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper and puree until smooth. Grill the steak until it reaches 130 F for medium-rare, about 6-7 minutes per side. Transfer to a cutting board and let rest 5 minutes. In a large bowl, combine the watercress, salt and pepper and enough dressing to coat. Thinly slice the steak across the grain and transfer to a platter. Top with the watercress, Stilton and grapes and serve with additional dressing.

Outdoor Dining Available 7 Days a Week THE FRESHEST SEAFOOD & BEST FRIED CLAMS AROUND! Fresh Seafood Purchased Daily! Fried Clams-Chowder-Clamcakes Burgers-Steak & Cheese-Chicken Fingers

July 2020 The Reporter

Support Local Restaurants COUNTRY KITCHEN Serving Breakfast & Lunch

COUNTRY KITCHEN

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

Offering CATERING Serving Breakfast & Lunch AVAILABLE

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

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

AVAILABLE •Daily Specials• Call 508-336-9807 •Catering Available•

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

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

Now Open for Indoor & Outdoor Dining

*DAILY SPECIALS *HOMEMADE DESSERTS

Hours: Sun-Thurs 11am-9pm Fri & Sat 11am-10pm

Indoor or Outdoor Seating Take Out Available Hours: Sun-Thurs 11:30-8; Fri-Sat 11:30-9

736 N Broadway East Providence, RI (401) 434-1505

431 Winthrop Street, Rte 44,Taunton MA • 508-823-8664 1666 Diamond Hill Rd, Cumberland RI • 401-305-3916 520 Foundry Street, Easton MA• 508-297-0327

www.lafamiliarestaurants.com

est 1987

INDOOR & OUTDOOR NOW OPEN

508.336.4361

Call for Reservations Open for Take-Out Daily

Updated Dining & Take Out Hours: Monday-Closed Tuesday-Friday 11:30 AM - 8:00 PM Saturday 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM Sunday 7:00 AM -1:00 PM

11am-7pm

Offering curbside pickup. Orders can be placed by calling 401-431-1322 or via online ordering through www.madeirarestaurant.com and click on online ordering tab. 288 Warren Avenue, East Providence

Check our Vino’s Facebook page & vinosfamilycafe.com for daily specials.

503 Winthrop St. Rehoboth

Now Open for Dine-In

TAI PAN

No Reservations - Masks Required Curbside Take Out Available

STEAK & PIZZA

Regular menu, Gluten Free menu & Catering menu all available

208 Taunton Ave East Providence RI

401-438-4646

uncletonys.com/east-providence/ www.facebook.com/UncleTonysEP/

260 Newport Avenue, Rumford, RI 02916

We l c o m e

To O u r Is l a n d

Chinese Restaurant Delivery Available ($15.00 min., Local Area)

401-434-3523 www.saxs.biz

Mon - Thurs - 11:30am-9:00pm Fri. & Sat. - 11:30am - 10:00pm, Sun. - 12:30pm - 9:00pm

1641 Fall River Ave, Rt. 6 Seekonk, MA

508-336-9090

The Reporter July 2020

From the State House Rep. Steven Howitt Opposes Policing Reform Bill, Saying It Goes Too Far

to intervene if they witness police misconduct, all of which he supports. But Representative Howitt also expressed concerns about other provisions contained in the bill that would make it harder for police officers to do their jobs, including restrictions on the use of no-knock warrants and limits on the ability of law enforcement to be notified by schools of potential problems, including students suspected of being affiliated with gangs. Limiting the use of no-knock warrants, he said, would expose more police officers to potentially life-threatening situations if the individual they are serving the warrant on is armed, while restricting the information reported by schools to law enforcement could result in many potentially volatile situations being allowed to escalate beyond control when earlier intervention could have prevented this from happening. One of the major points of contention in both bills involves the use of qualified immunity, which protects police officers and other public officials from the threat of civil liability. Although the House takes a less drastic approach than the Senate on this issue, Representative Howitt said there is still a great deal of confusion around qualified immunity, and expressed concerns about making changes to the law without fully understanding the potential implications and unintended consequences that could result from changing the law. Prior to the bill’s passage, the House adopted an amendment calling for the establishment of a special commission to study qualified immunity and report back to the Legislature by March 31, 2021, but left the bill’s underlying language related to qualified immunity untouched. An attempt to further amend this proposal by delaying the implementation of any qualified immunity changes until the commission reports its findings was narrowly defeated on a vote of 72-87. During floor debate on House Bill 4860, Representative Howitt cosponsored and supported several amendments seeking to address members’ concerns and improve the bill that failed to pass, including proposals: • establishing a clear definition of what constitutes unprofessional police conduct, to include excessive use of physical force or repeated and sustained instances of behavior that violates departmental policies; • protecting police officers from anonymous complaints by requiring that complaints submitted to the Division of Police Standards be from an identifiable complainant Main Office: Office:303 950 Warren Satellite Ave, Ste and signed under the pains and penalties Bristol County Medical Center Medical Associates of RI, Inc. of perjury; East Providence, RI 02914 1180 Hope St. / Bristol, RI 02809 950 Warren Ave., Suite #104 / E. Prov., RI 02914 Main Office: Satellite Office: Bristol Medical Center Medical Associates RI, Inc. (401)County 253-8900 (401)of228-7887 • mandating that prior disciplinary actions (401) 228-7887 • Fax# (401) 253-3131 950 Warren Ave., Suite #104 / E. Prov., RI 02914 1180 Hope St. / Bristol, RI 02809 Fax# (401) 253-3131 Fax# 253-3131 (401)(401) 228-7887 (401) 253-8900 resolved or adjudicated before the effective en Noseworthy Norman Chartier Fax# (401) 253-3131 Fax# (401) 253-3131 Noseworthy or of Operations Colleen Director of FinanceNorman Chartier date of the bill not be considered sufficient Director of Operations Director of Finance on their own to deny an officer recertificaology tion, but may be used if the officer becomes D. Bandow, M.D. We are extremely happy to announce n M. Vittimberga, M.D. the subject of further discipline after the ette DaSilva, PA-C that Michael A. Reuter, DPM, FACFAS has effective date; Medicine yn K. Banner, M.D. • eliminating language that prohibits school received the Physician of the Year Award ew Brumbaugh, M.D. ndra Constantino, M.D. officials from sharing information on stufrom The Miriam Hospital. Dr. Reuter is Board M. Dennison, M.D. dents who may be involved in gang activity E. Fischer, M.D. Certified in Foot Surgery. He specializes in ey R. Hamilton, M.D. with outside law enforcement agencies; and a A. Harrop, M.D. Diplomat of the American of corrective surgery with an foot Board and ankle Orban, M.D. • removing restrictive language that prevents rd F. Perrone, M.D. emphasis on diabetic limb reconstruction and Podiatric Surgery individuals with prior law enforcement s A. Ross, M.D. wound care. He joined Medical Associates of Medicine / Infectious Diseases experience from serving on the new MasCertified in Foot Surgery B. Torf, M.D. RI, Inc. in 2011 and sees patients in our 950 sachusetts Police Standards and Training Medicine / Women's Health Cyronak, M.D. Commission. Warren Ave, East Providence office. When Medicine/ Pediatrics The House and Senate will now appoint not at work, Dr. Reuter enjoys sailing, boating C. Mohlman, M.D. Michael A. Reuter, a conference committee that will attempt to rm Care and spending time with his family. een A. Whelan, M.D. DPM, FACFAS reconcile the differences between the two bills. Boston – State Representative Steven Howitt (R-Seekonk) today opposed a sweeping policing reform bill, saying it goes too far and could ultimately compromise public safety by deterring qualified canSteven Howitt didates from pursuing a law enforcement career and prompting other seasoned veterans to leave the profession. House Bill 4860, An Act relative to justice, equity and accountability in law enforcement in the Commonwealth, was engrossed by the House of Representatives on a vote of 93-66 on July 24. The bill’s passage comes just 10 days after the Senate approved its own version of the bill (Senate Bill 2820). The Senate has been criticized for not holding a hearing to solicit public input before passing its policing reform bill, and for not providing police with a seat at the table. Although the House accepted written testimony on Senate Bill 2820 over a two-day period, Representative Howitt said this still provided little time to fully vet the many provisions contained in the 89-page bill, and noted that the House version – which is even longer at 93 pages – was not made publicly available until 48 hours before the House began its debate. The actions taken by the House and Senate were prompted in large part by the national protests that followed the murder of George Floyd by police officers in Minnesota on May 25. Condemning Floyd’s murder and acknowledging the need to address systemic racism throughout society, Representative Howitt said he supports implementing reforms to help ensure that similar incidents do not happen in Massachusetts, but voted against the bill due to concerns over other provisions that could have long-term implications for law enforcement and potentially make an already hazardous job even more dangerous. Representative Howitt said there was strong consensus among his colleagues for passing sections of the bill that address many of the core policing reforms endorsed by the Massachusetts Black and Latino Legislative Caucus. These reforms include establishing a statewide licensing and certification process for all law enforcement officers, implementing a ban on the use of chokeholds, and requiring officers

cs K. Filardo, M.D.

n S. DeHaven, D.P.M. el A. Reuter, D.P.M. rd A. Reuter, D.P.M.

Medical Associates of Rhode Island, Inc.

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS!!!

Dermatology Grace D. Bandow, M.D. Gwenn M. Vittimberga, M.D. Graciette DaSilva, PA-C

Internal Medicine Kathryn K. Banner, M.D. Matthew Brumbaugh, M.D. Cassandra Constantino, M.D. Allen M. Dennison, M.D. Bruce E. Fischer, M.D. Geoffrey R. Hamilton, M.D. Pamela A. Harrop, M.D. Zsolt Orban, M.D. Howard F. Perrone, M.D. James A. Ross, M.D.

Jordan S. DeHaven, DPM

Internal Medicine / Infectious Diseases Alane B. Torf, M.D. Internal Medicine / Women's Health Andra Cyronak, M.D. Internal Medicine / Pediatrics Leslie C. Mohlman, M.D. Long Term Care Cathleen A. Whelan, M.D. Pediatrics Debra K. Filardo, M.D.

Podiatry Jordan S. DeHaven, D.P.M. Michael A. Reuter, D.P.M. Richard A. Reuter, D.P.M. Nurse Practitioner Margaret Gagner, R.N.P. Elaine D. Hart, R.N., N.P. Walk-In Center

Treatment In All Aspects of Foot Care

Other Services: Audiology Cardiology

July 2020 The Reporter

CLASSIFIEDS WANTED

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

HELP WANTED

Join the Bradley Hospital team today! Multiple positions available within Environmental Services & Food/Nutrition Services Depts. Visit jobs.lifespan.org to apply, or call 401-432-1113. Barrington Public Schools has an opening for a custodian, experience preferred. It includes a full benefit package with health insurance, pension and paid vacations. If interested please contact the Barrington Public Schools at 401-245-5000. Barrington is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

ELECTROLYSIS BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY in EAST PROVIDENCE: Turnkey Electrolysis business located in professional office building in prime location for sale. Well established - 25 years. Move-in ready (equipped and furnished) space available August 1. Suitable for similar personal service business. Serious inquiries only. (401) 316-1890.

Place Classified ads at www.ReporterToday.com PARTY RENTAL

PARTY RENTAL SERVICES: Moonwalks for sale or rent for $125 per weekend. 20x30 Tent package includes tables & chairs $350. 20x20 Tent package includes tables & chairs $250. Setup included locally. Call early for reservation. Dan 401-255-1072.

Flower vases. Please donate. Call Debbie at 401-632-3602. 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.

FOR RENT

OFFICE SPACE RENTALS. East Providence. Available a 10' X 16' own entrance from the street and access to main shared suite. And two 9' X 11' offices located in the office suite. Rent includes utilities, Wi-Fi, shared conference room, kitchen, bathrooms, & parking. Call Julie 401-368-7208.

GENERAL SERVICES

Wash Dry Fold service by Erica! Drop off Monday - Friday 6am to 9am at 257 Bullocks Point Ave., Riverside or by appointment. Call (401) 578-6366. Housecleaning. Is your home in need of a great cleaning? Whether you need a one time or regular cleanings. Years of experience. Fridge and oven included in our service. 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.

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

HOME & GARDEN Plants for Sale: Inside and outside; hanging plants, perennials, annuals, herbs, bushes, coleus, strawberry plants, ground cover, angel trumpets, citronella plants & forsythia. Extra large pots available. Everything from $1 to $10. 401-433-2922. Also, you can find me at The Weaver Farmer’s Market on Thursdays July thru September from from 4-7pm.

E N E RG I E S

Trade name for Al's Quality Oil Co., Inc. HEATFORCE FUEL * AT NO ADDITIONAL COST

• Reduces oil consumption • Reduces sludge for fewer breakdowns • Improves fuel quality for a cleaner home & environment

• Discounted “will call” C.O.D. prices • Automatic Deliveries • Burner Service by our own experienced technicians 24/7 • Service Contracts • Budget Plans • Propane Deliveries

Online Ordering Now Available!

Summer is upon us. Have your A/C installed now and SAVE! $200 Off New Installation expires 8/31/20

Family owned & operated for over 40 years

508-222-3187

www.qualityenergies.com

The Reporter July 2020

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