February 2025 Seekonk Reporter

NEW ENGLAND TIRE

Transmission Fluid, Power Steering Fluid, Anti-Freeze, Wipers, Battery, Filters. PLEASE CALL FOR APPOINTMENT

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!

Wise Before Winter

Be wise before winter. It won’t know your needs. Or listen to hungry birds

Crying for seed. There might be a fox, Out seeking mice.

Both finding out, Winter’s not nice.

Don Gardner Seekonk

Please Note:

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

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

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

Email: news@reportertoday.com

A Heartfelt Thank You from Wreaths Across America and Poppy’s Crew

We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the Rehoboth community for its overwhelming support of the first annual Wreaths Across America event at the Rehoboth Village Cemetery on December 14, 2024. The success of this event was truly made possible by the outpouring of love, contributions, and participation we received from our Rehoboth family.

This collective effort highlighted the importance of remembering, honoring, and teaching the value of our veterans’ sacrifices. We are excited about the possibility of expanding our efforts in future events and continuing to honor the brave men and women who served our country.

Looking ahead, we invite you to mark your calendars for December 13, 2025, for next year’s event. If you’d like to learn more or become involved, please feel free to reach out to us at waapoppyscrew@gmail.com.

We are deeply thankful to all who sponsored a wreath, participated, or extended their support in any way. Your commitment made a significant impact. Below, we would like to acknowledge our top supporters who made this event so special.

Protect Your Pets

It’s cold outside! This winter put yourself in their shoes or paws.

Each winter, thousands of cats and dogs suffer and shiver in painfully cold weather because thoughtless pet owners won’t bring them inside their homes.

If you can see an animal neglected this way, call the nearest Humane Society or Animal Control Department for help.

Cold weather can pose serious problems for our pets. Our pets have many of the same needs that we do.

Pay extra attention to your pet’s feet during the winter. Snow and ice can become packed between the pads. Wipe your pet’s paws after a jaunt outside and use sand on icy areas instead of salt or chemicals.

Seeking warmth on a cold day, cats can crawl in from underneath your car and rest between the hood and the engine. Remember to honk your horn or knock on the hood before starting your car.

Older animals chill easily. They shouldn’t be left outside for long periods of time.

Make your pet’s bed away from the drafts. Pets may move close to wood stoves, fireplaces or space heaters to keep warm, but can be burned by falling asleep to close to the heat.

Winter is perfect for outdoor frolicking and indoor snuggling with a cat or dog. Help us help all pets and animals a healthy and safe winter.

Towel-dry your pet as soon as he comes inside.

Dress your pet in a sweater or coat when they go outside. This helps retain body heat. Increase your pet’s supply of food, especially protein.

Keep antifreeze away from your pets since it is a highly poisonous substance.

Karen Ahern

Rehoboth, MA

Laura Schwall

Rehoboth Town News

From the Clerk’s Corner

Hello All ~ Happy February ~ I hope you are staying warm and healthy! As a friendly reminder, Real Estate Tax Bills were due Monday, February 3rd. Payment can be made via mail, drop box outside of Town Hall (340 Anawan Street) or online @ https://www.rehobothma.gov/ . If paying online, please scroll down to “Online Payments” and then click “Tax Payments” on the Town’s homepage.

Awesome News . . . Rehoboth Has a

New Codification of Bylaws

As you may remember, when I became Town Clerk in 2013, my goal was to make Town Government more accessible for Rehoboth residents. After several years in the making, I am thrilled to share that Rehoboth now has a new online format to view our General and Zoning Bylaws along with other Town Regulations through General Code’s eCode360. Here is a direct link to the Codification: https://ecode360.com/RE3747

Rehoboth’s Bylaws are now available online in an easy to navigate, efficient and transparent format for all viewers to review 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year.

About eCode360®:

eCode360 is an online municipal code platform designed, hosted and updated by General Code, a member of the International Code Council (ICC) family of solutions. This platform provides anytime access to Rehoboth codes and gives users the ability to easily search, archive and share code content as needed. General Code works directly with the Town of Rehoboth, MA to keep its code current and enforceable through regular updates, including the addition of new laws as they are made available by each local municipality.

Let’s get started: – Please go to Rehoboth General & Zoning Bylaws, Board of Health Regulations, Conservation Commission Administrative Regulations and/or Subdivision of Land Regulations by clicking on the link: https://ecode360.com/RE3747

For a quick tutorial on how to Search using Rehoboth’s New eCode 360 website, please use the QR code below or the “eCode360 Search Tips” YouTube link below: eCode360 Search Tips: https://youtu.be/YP9_9vpGCD0

For a quick navigational tool of Rehoboth’s bylaws, please view the posting under “News & Announcements” on the front of the town website: https://www.rehobothma.gov/ - then click on “News” center of page – then eCode360 OR a direct link: https://www.rehobothma. gov/home/news/exciting-news-%E2%80%93-ecode-360-has-officially-arrived%C2%A0

A more detailed eCode Navigation (printable 10-page PDF) can be found at: https://www. rehobothma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif4911/f/news/help-rehoboth-ecode360_bylaws_online.pdf

Or you can stop by for a quick tutorial. Thank you and please have fun navigating Rehoboth’s newly Codified Bylaws and Regulations!!

2025 Rehoboth Town Census

By now, you should have received your 2025 census form, 2025 calendar and departmental listing, dog license renewal, septic safety flyer and Health & Human Services flyer. If you would like an extra 2025 calendar for you or your family, just call, e-mail our office or stop by Town Hall. If you did not receive your census mailer, please let us know at 508252-6502 x-3109 or 3112 or email me TownClerk@RehobothMA.gov .

I would like to thank the 4,360 of the 5,865 households that quickly reviewed their 2025 census data, made any necessary changes, and returned the forms to us ~ thank you all !!! If you have not returned your census, please take a moment and send it back please. Census forms were due to our office by January 31, 2025. This year, residents were afforded the opportunity to drop off their census forms at the outside drop box at Town Hall (340 Anawan Street), deliver in-person to our office, fax, mail, or scan and e-mail them in. We also left census drop boxes around the Town (Town Hall foyer, Bristol-Savings Bank lobby, Blanding Library lobby and the COA Senior Center at Francis Farm). It is exciting to see that residents can choose the most convenient way to respond to their 2025 Census. I would especially like to thank those families who processed their census forms and dog tags online. Our office is processing your census changes and preparing the documents for our

Rehoboth: Cardinal in the snow by Earle Dias Photography.

Registrars. During the months of February/March, the Registrars will begin contacting those residents who have not returned their 2025 census forms. For the remaining 1,505 households that have not responded to date, please respond as soon as possible so we do not have to bother you with a phone call or a second mailing ~ thank you.

As an added feature on the 2025 Census form, if you are a registered voter, you will note an (A) or (I) under the first column of the census “Voter Status”. Your political party is listed in the last column “Political Party”. Under Voter Status, “A” represents an active voter; “I” represents an inactive voter. Please contact our office as soon as possible if you have an “I” after your Voter Status. Also, many people seem to be confused with a political party of “U” by their name. The State considers all “Independent” voters as “Unenrolled”; therefore, the letter “U” appearing in the political party column. Independent is the same as Unenrolled. An Unenrolled or Independent voter has the opportunity to choose the Party ballot they wish to vote during a Primary Election. By selecting a ballot type for this election, your registered party does not change your party

Puppies are a lot of work!!

Confused about how to safely socialize and train your puppy? We are here to teach your puppy to become the best social and well-mannered dog he can be!

Get started right away with flexible Puppy Kindergarten classes and multiple Puppy Socials each week for safe socialization and training! Join our friendly community of dog lovers for fun and support!

status from Unenrolled/Independent. It just lets us know what ballot you would like to view and vote for a particular Primary Election. Just a reminder, the census form does not register you to vote or allow you to change your political designation. We’ve come across many census forms in the past with the party designations crossed out and replaced with something else or a designation added to individuals who are not currently registered to vote. If you would like to register to vote or make a change to the party designation, you must complete the appropriate forms as we need your signature to either register you to vote, change your political party affiliation, or remove you from our voter rolls. This can be done in person, by mail, or online. Simply call us at 508-252-6502 x-3109, x-3112 or x-3110 or e-mail us at TownClerk@RehobothMA. gov to request a Mail-In Voter Registration Form. If you prefer to register or change your political affiliation online, please go to www. RegisterToVoteMA.com. Mail-in voter registration applications are also available @ https://www.sec.state.ma.us/ele/elepdf/Voter-regmail-in.pdf - please complete the application, save it, and e-mail, drop off or mail the signed form to us. To be eligible to vote in the upcoming Annual Town Election on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, all voter registrations and/or political party changes must be made no later than 5:00 PM on Saturday, March 22, 2025.

The Annual Town Election

The Annual Town Election for the Town of Rehoboth will be held on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, with the polls open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. – Polling Location for all four precincts is Francis Farm Community Center (27 Francis Farm Road) – Museum building. If you would like to review the facility and layout of the polling location, please visit the Town Website at: https://www.rehobothma. gov/home/news/rehoboth-changes-its-centralized-polling-locationfrancis-farm-community-center-museum Additional details will be communicated as we get closer to the election. As always, the Town Website will have updated polling information when available. Nomination papers are now available for any registered voter in Rehoboth wishing to run for election on the Town ballot and who chooses not to seek a nomination through their registered party’s caucus process. Nomination papers may be picked up by prospective candidates, at the Town Clerk’s office (340 Anawan Street/Route 118) beginning January 2, 2025, and must be returned, signed by a minimum of 50 registered voters. All signed and completed nomination papers are due back to the Board of Registrars at the

Town Clerk’s Office by 5 p.m. on, or before, Tuesday, February 11th.

Positions to be elected on the ballot for 2025 are Moderator (one for 1 year), Board of Selectmen (one position for 3 years), Assessor (one for 3 years), School Committee (one for 3 years), Housing Authority (one for five years), Planning Board (one for 5 years), Park Commission (one for 5 years), Constable (three positions for 3 years) and Water Commissioner (two positions for 3 years).

The Republican Town Committee Caucus will be held on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, in the Franis Hall Building at the Francis Farm Community Center – 27 Francis Farm Road at 7:00 PM. An alternate date/inclement weather date of Tuesday, February 18, 2025 - 7:00 PM. (Francis Hall Building), has also been scheduled, at the Francis Farm Complex.

The Democratic Town Committee Caucus will also be held on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at the Blanding Public Library – Goff Memorial Hall, 124 Bay State Road, at 7:00 PM.

The final voter registration date, to be eligible to vote in the Annual Town Election, is scheduled for Saturday, March 22nd from 8AM to 5PM. Prospective voters are reminded that they may also register to vote online at www.RegisterToVoteMA.com, by calling the Town Clerk’s Office to request a Mail-In voter registration form, or download a form @ http:// www.sec.state.ma.us/ele/elepdf/Voter-reg-mail-in.pdf

Absentee & Mail-In Ballot Requests

Applications for absentee ballots are available as of January 2nd and may be obtained from the Town Clerk’s Office or online @ https://www.sec.state.ma.us/ele/elepdf/absentee/ English-Absentee-Ballot-Application.pdf

An absentee ballot may only be obtained by written request and with the voter’s original signature. Most voters do not qualify to receive an absentee ballot to be sent to them. Massachusetts allows voters that QUALIFY to vote by absentee ballot if the voter is one of the following:

• Will be absent from your city or town on election day.

• Has a physical disability that prevents voting at the polling place.

• Cannot vote at the polls due to religious beliefs.

If you do not qualify for an “Absentee Ballot”, you can vote by mail by completing the “No Excuse” Vote by Mail ballot application detailed below this paragraph.

No Excuse Early Voting By Mail

The 2022-Votes Act legislation approved in June of 2022, allows voters who do not qualify for an Absentee Ballot to vote by mail by completing the “Vote by Mail” application @ https://www.sec.state.ma.us/divisions/elections/download/vote-by-mail-applications/ vote-by-mail-paper-application-2023.pdf

Applications for both absentee and vote-by-mail must be received by the Town Clerk by 5PM on the 5th business day before an election. We recommend applying earlier than the deadline as the US Postal delivery services outside of Rehoboth are not consistent and can range from 2 to 11 days.

2025 – Annual Rabies Clinic

Keep them safe . . . inoculate! The Annual Rehoboth-Seekonk $15 Dog and Cat Rabies Clinic is scheduled for Saturday, March 15, 2025. Again, this year the rabies clinic will be held at the Seekonk Public Safety Complex, Route 44 (500 Taunton Avenue. The Rehoboth Town Clerk’s Office Staff will be there to renew your 2025 Dog Licenses. If you would like to help us register the residents for their dog and cat rabies shots, please let us know. Please check the Town Website for up-to-date Rabies Clinic information at https://www. rehobothma.gov/town-clerk/pages/dog-licenses. For more details either on the rabies clinic or helping us staff the event, please call 508-252-6502 X-3112, 3109 or 3110 ~ thank you.

Town Hall Mail & Online Payments

Very Important – Please, it is requested that when you send correspondence to any office at the Town Hall, you only include information specific to the department you want to communicate with. As an example, residents might send in their tax payment along with their census form or dog license. Tax payments go to the Tax Collector whereas census forms or dog licenses go to the Town Clerk’s Office. By including multiple offices in one envelope, it may delay processing your requests or payments. Also, there are two separate “Online Payment” accounts on the Town Website: Tax Payments and Town Clerk Payments. Please make sure, if you are processing your taxes online, that you are selecting Tax Payments and for all Town Clerk payments online (Business Certificates, Birth – Marriage – Death Certificates, Genealogy Fees, Raffle Permits, Street Listings and Voter Lists) that you are selecting “Town Clerk Payments” and not Tax Payments. Please Note: Effective 1-1-2022 all Dog Licensing online payments, now appears under “Online Permitting” located on homepage of the website @ www.RehobothMA.gov , not Invoice Cloud. Thank you for your assistance.

2025 Dog Licenses

The 2025 Dog Licenses are now available and may be purchased through the Town Clerk’s Office. Thank you to the 600 dog owners who have already processed their 2025 Dog Licenses!! Again in 2025, residents will be able to renew their dog licenses online with a Debit/Credit Card or Electronic Check (ACH/EFT). Those dog owners who registered their dogs on our online dog licensing program “Permiteyes” know they are able to renew their dog’s license online through the town’s permitting program located on the Town Website @ https://www.rehobothma.gov/home/pages/online-permitting - please look for the Green “Dog Licensing” button and search for your dog’s record. Instructions on how to use the online permitting program can be found online at: https://www.rehobothma.gov/town-clerk/ pages/dog-licenses .

Whether renewing online, via mail, in person, through the outside drop box or census drops around town, dog license applications must be accompanied by a current year rabies

Continued on next page...

© 2018 Target Marketing Group, Inc.

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

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

ALL NEWS ITEMS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY THE 25TH OF THE MONTH It MUST INCLUDE the name and phone number of the sender.

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

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.

certificate (with a vaccination date covering the current licensing year) and proof of spay or neuter [if applying for the $10 licensing fee] unless we already have your documentation on file in the Clerk’s Office. If you are unsure, please give our office a call and we can tell you how up-to-date our information is, or you can simply search the information on the Permiteyes Dog Licensing program located on the town website: https://www.rehobothma.gov/home/pages/ online-permitting . Dog owners should note that the license(s) will not be returned unless a stamped, self-addressed envelope is included (the current postage is 69¢ for one dog tag, 97¢ for two or three dog tags and 1.25¢ for four dog tags).

Reminder, all residents 70-years old or over do not need to pay the $10 or $20 yearly dog licensing fee. As you may remember, I submitted an article at the May 8, 2017 Annual Town Meeting (Article 15) requesting Town Meeting vote to accept MGL CHAPTER 140 SECTION 139(c), which states “No fee shall be charged for a license issued under this section for a service animal as defined

by the Americans with Disabilities Act or regulations promulgated thereunder. No fee shall be charged for a license for a dog owned by a person aged 70 years or over in a city or town that accepts this provision”. Town meeting did approve the acceptance of MGL Chapter 140 Section 139 (c), which permits the Town Clerk’s Office to waive dog licensing fees for service animals and for dogs owned by any Rehoboth resident 70 years of age and older. Proof of rabies vaccinations for each dog and proof of the dog owner’s age (70 or older) is required. As per Town Counsel, the waiving of fees does not include Kennel Fees.

As a reminder, the Town Offices will be closed on Monday, February 17th in honor of President’s Day. We hope you enjoy the President’s Day holiday. Also, a Happy Valentine’s Day to all from the Town Clerk’s Office.

Hoping for warmer weather soon. Thank you all – please stay healthy and safe!! I look forward to talking with you in March. Please enjoy your February – Laura, Kerrie & Jenn

A Heartfelt Thank You from the Rehoboth Food Pantry

From mid-October through the end of December, the Rehoboth Food Pantry was in preparation mode for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Thankfully, many, many of you were right there with us. Our generous turkey donor called for the number of turkeys needed. Another generous donation of pies and rolls, together with the Thanksgiving bags we made up gave our neighbors in need supplies for a plentiful Thanksgiving. Food drives run by DR Student Government, Personal Best, Cristallo Spa, Robin Fielding Rex at Soul Purpose, Rehoboth Post Office Employees, Horton Estate Social committee, Marie Soliday at Confectionary Designs, AND Wyatt Radny with mom (Nicole) and dad (Justin) continued the tradition of a fantastic neighborhood food drive! This year Wyatt even helped unload the car! The St. Vincent De Paul Society at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel continues to donate food to both Rehoboth and Seekonk at least twice a month and Rehoboth Congregational Church donates often each month. December and Christmas preparations blew in 3 days after Thanksgiving and donations continued. DL Beckwith ran a great food drive, as well as Palmer River, and The Blanding Library had their Toiletree again this year, with non-food needed supplies! Throughout all of this time the food donations poured in

Date: Time:

Place:

Saturday, April 12 4:00PM American Legion (Post 302) 84 Bay State Road, Rehoboth, MA 02769

at all our drop off locations. Please know that any amount of food donated is a great help. We started to build up food supplies that were lacking. Your donations helped fill the bags we gave out at Thanksgiving and then a short time after the bags we gave out at Christmas. We are so blessed with your generosity, the food and monetary donations. All the dating, sorting and organizing and then preparing bags for the holidays could never have been accomplished without the fantastic volunteers at the Rehoboth Food Pantry! Many of you help on Wednesdays and many more on Thursdays and some help both days. Our Heartfelt thanks to all in this wonderful community who continually help the Rehoboth Food Pantry in so many ways!

Boom band at 7PM!

Flag Raised at The Old Hornbine School

The Hornbine School was restored in 1968 during Rehoboth’s 325th Anniversary. That August, the Hornbine Association held a ceremony to raise a flag that was given to the school by President and Mrs. Johnson. The flag had flown over the White House on July 27th of that year. The special flag was presented to George Sarkisian, the 325th anniversary committee chairperson. John Waterman, chairman of the Board of Selectmen, was master of ceremonies. Miss Rehoboth, Katherine Perates, raised the flag. Members of the 3rd Battalion, 5th artillery, Rehoboth Nike Site served as Color Guard. Mrs. Ida (Horton) Read, a teacher at the school in 1918 and 1922, spoke of her years at the school. She introduced several former students in attendance. Although we now use a 28 star flag, which would have been used during the 1840s, we continue to raise the “Johnson” flag occasionally.

During the 325th celebration, The Hornbine School Association had one member that was a real “go-getter”. He arranged for a 17-piece band from the Newport Naval Base to attend the flag raising! He persuaded Lester Brander, who owned the Brander Bus Company here in Rehoboth, to provide the transportation. Years later, Mr. Brander told this writer what happened behind the scenes that day.

Continued on next page...

BIG BLUE REMOVAL

The Band leader was under the impression that his Navy Band was going to the opening of a brand-new elementary school building in Rehoboth. Mr Brander drove down to the Navy Base in Rhode Island; the Band boarded the bus with all their instruments and Mr. Brander drove toward Rehoboth. Eventually, Mr. Brander got off the highway and drove his bus down winding roads that seemed to the Band Leader to get progressively more out in the wilderness. The Band leader finally approached Mr. Brander and asked, “Where are we going?” He became very upset when Mr. Brander told him they were going to entertain a gathering out in the woods at a little one-room school house! But from all accounts, the Band performed well; entertained the gathering and never let on that they had been mislead.

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

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

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

Child’s name, birthdate, school, clothing size, gender, and general interests.

This information can be emailed to rehobothblizzard@gmail.com or mailed to Colleen McBride, 35 Pond Street, Rehoboth, MA 02769

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

The Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Inc. is committed to serving the community by providing Christmas gifts, holiday support,

and special occasion needs to Rehoboth residents who are facing challenging times in their lives. Donations can be made out to “Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Inc.” and mailed to: Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Attn: Cathy Edington, 61 Reservoir Ave., Rehoboth, MA 02769

Colleen McBride, Cathy Edington, and Cheryl Santos

Rehoboth Blizzard of Giving, Inc. www.rehobothblizzardofgiving.org

Rehoboth Republican Town Committee

The Republican Caucus to nominate candidates for the Tuesday, April 1, 2025 Annual Town Election will be held on Wednesday, February 12, 2025 - 7:00 p.m., at the COA - Senior Center in the Francis Hall Building of the Francis Farm Community Center – 27 Francis Farm Road, Rehoboth. In the case of inclement weather, an alternate date of Tuesday, February 18, 2025 - 7:00 p.m., has been scheduled, also at the COA – Senior Center (Francis Hall) at the Francis Farm Complex. The list of offices to be filled is as follows:

Position, Term

Assessor, Board of, Three Years • Constable, Three Years • Constable, Three Years • Constable, Three Years • D-R District School Committee, Three Years • Housing Authority, Five Years • Moderator, One Year

• Park Commission, Five Years • Planning Board, Five Years • Selectman, Board of, Three Years • Water Commissioner, Three Years • Water Commissioner , Three Years

Anyone interested in seeking any of the above offices as a Republican candidate should contact the Chairman of the Republican Town Committee, Rob Johnson at 508-243-4160. The Caucus is open to any registered Republican of the Town of Rehoboth as of December 1, 2024.

Rehoboth Land Trust News

Explore Water Critters in RLT’s Vernal Pools

Learn How to Protect Your Land Forever

March 2, 2025 @2pm - Goff Hall

Rehoboth Land Trust Nature’s Voices Speaker Series

Want to learn more about how landowners like you can protect

your property for future generations? The Rehoboth Land Trust is excited to present Mark Robinson, an expert in land conservation in Massachusetts. Mark will share success stories, lessons learned, and reveal the different methods and benefits of preserving your property’s natural beauty forever.

This is the first of three events in RLT’s Nature’s Voices Speaker Series. Mark your calendars for the rest of the series:

CORRECTION: April 24, 2025 (not 4/27/2025) @6:30pm - Sustainable Landscaping: Gardening for People, the Planet, and Your Pocketbook, Melanie Trecek-King

If you love gardening, this one’s for you! Learn about sustainable gardening methods that ensure safe backyard habitats for native plants and animals from Professor Melanie Trecek-King. Melanie is a biologist, science educator, and founder of Thinking is Power, a science curriculum focused on critical thinking.

*Plus this is RLT’s annual meeting, so you will also get an inside look at what else we’re up to!

March 15 , 2025 1 pm – 3 pm

(Rain date: March 22, 2025)

What kinds of animals are active in icy cold water in March? Crazy ones, right?! You’ll be surprised to discover just what wriggles, swims, and slithers about in the vernal pools of the Rehoboth Land Trust’s Ephraim Hunt Ministerial Land on Pond Street! We will visit two pools where RLT President, Carol Entin, will provide some tubs of vernal pool leaf litter for you to explore. In addition, we will pull out some amphibian traps set out the day before to look at any live frogs or salamanders trapped overnight! We can’t wade in the water, but you should definitely wear waterproof footgear and dress warmly. Keeping your hands dry will also make your experience more comfortable.

When you register for this walk, you will receive some tips and tricks for staying comfortable when working with water in March! Spaces are limited to a total of 10 people.

RSVP with your name, number of people, and phone number to info@rehobothlandtrust.net or call Carol Entin at 508-415-6065.

Live Animal Show, Animal Adventures

June 28, 2025 @11am

Kick off your summer vacation by getting up close and personal with some cool critters! Zoo and rescue center Animal Adventures will showcase live creatures including an alligator, hedgehog, geckos, turtles, frogs, and more. If the animals are up to it, you might even be able to pet some of them! Learn about the wildlife conservation programs at Animal Adventures, and ways you can help protect Rehoboth wildlife.

All events will take place at Goff Hall in Rehoboth and are free and open to the public. The Rehoboth Land Trust Nature’s Voices Speaker Series is funded in part by a grant from the Rehoboth Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency. Thank you RCC!

Protecting Rehoboth’s Natural Beauty

Do you cherish the feeling of walking through peaceful woodlands? Do you love waking up to scenic views of nature from your window, rather than the sight of parking lots or buildings? At the Rehoboth Land Trust (RLT), we share your passion for the natural beauty of our town – and we’re working hard to ensure that future generations will enjoy these same views and experiences.

Who We Are and What We Do

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Rehoboth Land Trust is dedicated to protecting and preserving the land in our community for both people and wildlife. Run entirely by volunteers, we rely on the support of people like you to protect the open spaces that make Rehoboth such a special place. Through a combination of land ownership and conservation restrictions, RLT has successfully preserved 775 acres of natural habitat in Rehoboth – forever.

While some of these protected lands are landlocked or unsuitable for hiking, three of our properties are open for recreational use. The Ephraim Hunt Ministerial Land, Reynolds Ave Conservation Area, and Mason Street Conservation Area each offer serene trails for hiking, bird watching, and simply enjoying nature. All are free to visit, and we encourage you to explore and discover the natural beauty of our community. Learn more about these properties by visiting www.rehobothlandtrust.org or scanning the QR code below.

Get Involved and Stay Connected

Would you like to deepen your connection with nature or learn more about local wildlife? Sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on RLT’s upcoming events and programs, such as our popular birding hike and native plant workshops. Our events offer fun, educational opportunities to connect with fellow nature enthusiasts and experts, all while supporting our mission to protect the land.

Working Together for a Greener Future

RLT is not a town committee, but we do greatly appreciate the work of our town Conservation Commission and Community Preservation Committee, as well as private landowners who have protected their land. Altogether, 2,338 acres of Rehoboth’s natural landscape have been permanently preserved.

While our preservation efforts are progressing, there’s more work to be done. To put things into perspective, here’s a snapshot of how we compare to some of our neighboring communities:

Taunton (similar in total acreage to Rehoboth): 5,060 acres

Norton (less total acreage than Rehoboth): 3,517 acres

Attleboro (less total acreage than Rehoboth): 2,457 acres

The average for towns of similar size in Massachusetts is about 7,800 acres of protected land. As Rehoboth continues to grow, it’s critical that we act now to protect more of our town’s natural areas before it’s too late. If we don’t, Rehoboth could look very different, very soon.

How You Can Make a Difference

You can play a pivotal role in ensuring that Rehoboth remains the beautiful, rural town we love. By becoming a member of the Rehoboth Land Trust, volunteering your time, or attending our events, you’re directly contributing to the preservation of the land we all value. If you’re a landowner and are interested in protecting your property, we’d love to talk to you about conservation options.

Visit www.rehobothlandtrust.org, scan the QR code below, or email us at info@ rehobothlandtrust.net to learn more about how you can get involved or support our mission. Thank you for caring about Rehoboth’s future!

Rehoboth Land Trust, Inc. is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization funded entirely by donations and run by dedicated volunteers. We are not a town committee. Learn more at www. rehobothlandtrust.org.

Introducing SCOOP DOGG!

Highway Department

“Name a Truck” Contest

Students at Palmer River and Beckwith Middle School recently had the exciting opportunity to name the Highway Department’s new plow truck. After a fun and creative submission process, we’re thrilled to announce the winning name: SCOOP DOGG!

A special congratulations goes to Room 102 – Mrs. Heim’s class at Beckwith Middle School, whose submission was selected as the winner! In recognition of their creativity and participation, the Highway Department is proud to donate $100 to Mrs. Heim’s classroom for supplies.

Thank you to all the students who participated in this fun contest!

Rehoboth Animal Shelter News

Nick is a friendly and very energetic hound mix who loves to run and hike and knows some commands. Nick likes people and other dogs but has a tendency to chase other animals; he should have a fenced yard. Nick is playful and enjoys treats!

More information about Nick and other adoptable pets is available Petfinder.com. To get more information, make an appointment, or report a lost or found pet, please call 508-252-5421 ext 126 and leave a message.

Spring

VICTORIA DORAN

President RIAR 2013, Broker Associate Liscensed in MA & RI (401) 458-2160 Cell victoriadoran.remax@gmail.com

around the corner.

AARON DORAN

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

Stubbs

Rehoboth Reaches Agreement for Ambulance Services

By Joe Siegel

Following many months of negotiations, the Town of Rehoboth has reached a new contract agreement with the Rehoboth Ambulance Committee. Rehoboth Ambulance is a private non-profit corporation which has been under contract to the town.

“We’ve spent a long long time getting to this point,” Director of Finance Sue Pimental said Monday. “There’s some provisions in here for financial assistance. The most important thing is to make sure we have great service, timely service for the residents. Every minute counts.”

Last October, the town was awarded Bristol County ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funds to purchase a new ambulance. The Rehoboth Ambulance Committee will be able to use it as they see fit.

“We’re excited to start moving forward to continue providing the service that we’ve been providing to the town,” Director of Operations Reuben Fischman said.

“I think we have a good agreement,” Selectmen Chair Skip Vadnais.

The ambulance service operated at a loss of $212,000 in 2023. In 2024, that number was predicted to be as much as $351,000.

Vadnais Praises Runey

By Joe Siegel

Rehoboth Selectmen Chair Skip Vadnais praised the leadership of Dighton-Rehoboth School Superintendent Bill Runey during Monday’s meeting.

“This board appreciates the energy and the positive imagination you’ve brought to this job,” Vadnais told Runey. “It’s far different from what we were dealing with in the dark ages and we’re looking to continue to strengthen the partnership that you’ve been working on with (Selectman) George Solas and our Chief Financial Officer (Sue Pimental).”

Runey briefed the board on the new District Strategic Plan, Driving toward 2030.

“It’s a very ambitious five year strategic plan and it’s an opportunity for us as a district to focus on several aspects that will shape the future of our students,” Runey explained. “Part of the plan is to deepen our community connections. We are in very tight financial times. There are a lot of grants and opportunities to offset the expenses that we have.”

Runey also thanked the board for their support of the district’s Career and Technical Education programs. He noted his administration is beginning work on the preliminary FY’26 budget, which will be introduced in mid-February.

Dighton-Rehoboth Receives $10,000 Grant

By Joe Siegel

The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District recently received a $10,000 grant from Bristol County Savings Bank’s charitable foundation for its Before & After School Student Support Program.

“We are extremely grateful for the continued support from the Bank. Our team pursued these funds to help us meet more of the goals of the DRiving Toward 2030 Strategic Plan by empowering our most vulnerable students and igniting progress on their path to success,” said D-R Superintendent Bill Runey.

Specifically, the grant for the Before & After School Student Support Program will assist students at Beckwith Middle School and Dighton Middle School who find the academic and social demands of the school day especially challenging. The program will focus on boosting students’ academic performance, fostering greater self-confidence and improving attendance rates, particularly among students who are chronically absent.

“We have had a long and rewarding partnership with the D-R Regional School District, supporting its Citizen Scholarship Foundation and High Five Club, among other initiatives,” said John Silva, President & Chief Banking Officer of Bristol County Savings Bank and President of the Bristol County Savings Charitable Foundation. “One of our Foundation’s areas of focus is education and literacy, so we were immediately drawn to the D-R student support program and wanted to do our part to help give all students the opportunity to thrive both academically and socially.” Silva added that the Bank provides its Financial Literacy programming, “Saving Makes Cents,” at Dighton-Rehoboth’s Beckwith and Palmer schools, as well.

Dighton-Rehoboth Graduate Killed In Plane Crash

By Joe Siegel

Christopher Collins, who graduated from Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School in 2000, was one of the 67 people killed in a midair collision at Reagan National Airport on January 29.

Collins, 42, was flying back from Kansas with a colleague, Melissa Nicandri, when the commercial jet, American Airlines 5342 collided with a Black Hawk helicopter. The accident is still being investigated.

Collins’ family released a statement about their loss: “Our family is devastated by the loss of Chris, our beloved husband, son, brother, and uncle. Chris was a true adventurer with a passion for the outdoors and a lifelong love of animals. His talent as a financial professional brought him to New York City, where he fell in love with a city girl, his cherished wife Jen. While Jen and Chris built a joy-filled city life together, Chris’ call to the outdoors never wavered, whether it was hiking Lögberg in Iceland, camping and rafting in the Great Smoky Mountains, skiing and snowboarding, and most of all, enjoying the coastal outdoor landscape of Brewster and the rest of Cape Cod.”

The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District posted a message Friday on their Facebook page: “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Chris Collins, DRRHS Class of 2000, and all those who tragically lost their lives in this week’s midair crash in Washington, D.C.

Chris was a multi-sport athlete who was listed in Senior Superlatives and graduated with the highest honors.

The entire #WeAreDR Community stands in support during this difficult time, honoring Chris’ memory and extending our deepest condolences to all affected.”

The Seekonk Scene

From the Clerk

HAPPY NEW YEAR! We hope everyone had a wonderful Holiday Season and wish you all a healthy, and happy new year. Don’t forget your Sweetheart on Valentine’s Day Friday, February 14, 2025.

Reminders for 2025 Town Census Information

The 2025 Annual Town Census was mailed to all households on January 22nd. Thank you to everyone who have already returned theirs. The clerk’s office has been extremely busy processing them along with processing dog licenses. If you have not returned your town census or dog license application, please do so as soon as possible. Please be sure to update and/or make any changes to the form, sign, and return it to our office by February 28, 2025. It can be returned to us in-person, by mail, or by leaving it in the drop box located at the front entrance of Town Hall.

Why is the census important to be returned? The information that is collected is used to prove residency, update voter rolls, veterans’ benefits, birth records, help predict future school enrollment, establish precinct lines, and qualify for state/federal funding. Failure to respond to the census may result in an interruption in voter status, becoming an inactive voter, and being removed from the active voting list.

What information is not captured in the census? It does not register you to vote. If you are a registered voter, there will be a party affiliation by your name (i.e. D, R, U, etc.). Updates to your party affiliation can be made in person at our office or by going online to https://www.sec.state.ma.us/OVR/.

Dog Licenses

Dog license forms were included in the census mailing. Please remember DOG TAGS EXPIRE ON MARCH 31st. Massachusetts General Law states dogs must be licensed annually, with proof of a current rabies vaccination. Failure to comply may result in a bylaw citation fee. You can renew the license in-person or by mail. If you would like to have the dog tag mailed to you, please return your completed form to us along with a self-addressed stamped envelope and a check made payable to the Town of Seekonk. As a reminder, license fees are waived for residents 70 years of age or older. However, you still need to apply for the license and show the dog is current on their rabies vaccine.

Annual Town Election

Save the Date - The Annual Seekonk Town Election will be held Monday April 7, 2025. Nomination papers are available in the Town Clerk’s office. The deadline to return completed nomination papers to the Town Clerk’s office is Friday, February 14, 2025 at 5:00PM. If you are not registered to vote, but would like to vote at town election, the deadline to register is March 28, 2025.

To run for an elected position, you must be a registered voter in the town. Candidates must obtain a minimum of 50 signatures from registered voters in the Town of Seekonk. We recommend obtaining more signatures in case some signatures are unable to be verified. If signatures are not legible, they cannot be counted. A street address (not P.O. Box) is required from each person signing your papers.

Elected positions for the April 7, 2025

Annual Town Election

One seat for the Board of Assessors (3-year term)

Three seats for The Library Board of Trustees (3-year term)

Two seats for the Planning Board (5-year term)

One seat for the Planning Board (4-year term)

Two seats for the School Committee (3-year term)

One seat for the Select Board (3-year term)

One seat for the Water Commission (3-year term)

Absentee & Early Voting Ballot

Applications request for 2025

Absentee ballot applications are available in our office or on our website (https://www.seekonk-ma.gov/280/Town-Clerk). If you want to be put on the permanent absentee ballot mailing list, please fill out the form and check off “for all elections.” This form needs to be filled out each year.

SEEKONK DENTAL

•

your town on Election Day

• You have a religious belief that prevents you from voting at your polling location on Election Day

• You have a disability that prevents you from voting at your polling location

• You are on active military duty

• You are a U.S. citizen living outside the U.S.

• You are requesting an emergency absentee ballot due to hospitalization

• You are currently incarcerated for a reason other than a felony conviction

If you do not qualify for as absentee voter, you can complete the vote by mail application which can be found on our website or at https://www.sec.state.ma.us/divisions/elections/download/voteby-mail-applications/vote-by-mail-paperapplication-2023.pdf. Applications for both absentee and vote-by-mail must be received by the Town Clerk by 5PM on the 5th business day before an election. We recommend applying earlier than the deadline to be sure it is received in time.

Other Reminders

The Annual 2025 Rabies Clinic, for both dogs and cats, will be held on Saturday, March 15, 2025 at the Seekonk Public Safely Building Fire Division, 500 Taunton Ave. The attending veterinarian will be Dr. Truesdale, and the fee will be $15 cash only. Please bring proof of current rabies vaccine. All cats and ferrets must be in cages and dogs must be on a leash. The Town of Rehoboth will be joining us.

Motor Vehicle Excise tax 1st Commitment for 2025 will be mailed in February due in March.

Due dates real estate and personal property taxes.

• Third quarter due on Monday, February 3, 2025

• Fourth quarter due on Thursday, May 1, 2025

If you have any questions regarding your taxes, please contact the Tax Collector’s Office at 508-336-2930.

Town Hall Hours

Town Offices will be closed to observe Presidents Day on Monday, February 17, 2025.

Daffodils and Crocus will be popping up soon as Spring is only 52 days away arriving on March 20th. We hope you have a wonderful month. As always, please contact us (508) 336-2920 or by email at townclerk@ seekonk-ma.gov if you have any questions. Thank you for taking the time to read the Town Clerk’s Office monthly update.

~Kristen and Lorraine

Local Grants Awarded for Seekonk Cultural Council

The Seekonk Cultural Council, have announced the award of 19 grants totaling over $10,000, for cultural programs in Seekonk. A complete list of recipients and grant amounts can be found below. Look for these programs taking place in Seekonk throughout the year

The Seekonk Cultural Council is part of a network of 329 Local Cultural Councils serving all 351 cities and towns in the Commonwealth. The LCC Program is the largest grassroots cultural funding network in the nation, supporting thousands of community-based projects in the arts, sciences, and humanities every year. The state legislature provides an annual appropriation to the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency, which then allocates funds to each community.

Statewide, more than $3.3 million will be distributed by local cultural councils this year. Grants will support an enormous range of grass-roots activities: concerts, exhibitions, radio and video productions, field trips for schoolchildren, after-school youth programs, writing workshops, historical preservation efforts, lectures, First Night celebrations, nature and science education programs for families and town festivals. Nearly half of LCC funds support educational activities for young people.

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

This year's grants include:

• Goulet, Beth - Mandala painting for fun and relaxation

• Gruppuso, Philip - Seekonk Artist Network Open Studios

• Holme, Maria - Creatively Organizing Teen Thoughts

• Mankita, Jay - Chain Reactions & Creative Contraptions

• Mass Audubon South East Region - Nature and Art for Families

• Matson, Rhonda - Backyard Band Jams goes to the Seekonk Library

• MUSIC Dance.edu - Hip Hop Chair Dance for Seniors! - a dance series

• Osamequin Farm, Inc. - Osamequin Farm Artist Showcase

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

• Salisbury, Michelle - Fine Arts for AP Euro

• Seekonk High School - Courtyard Mural

• Seekonk High School - Empty Bowls

• Seekonk High School - RAKU experience

• Seekonk Public Schools - Sublimation printing

• Seekonk Public Schools - Craft Club

• Strictly Sentimental Swing Band - Swing Music from Miller to Buble

• The Attleboro Museum, Inc. - High Art Exhibition: "Balance"

• York, Matt - Willie Nelson Songs and Stories w/ Matt York

The Seekonk Little League presented a check for $750.00 to the Doorways Food Pantry to help our neighbors who are struggling to deal with the high cost of groceries. The number of families seeking relief at the food pantry has been rising steadily, and donations like this one play a critical role in helping us address those needs. Over 70 families rely on Doorways on a regular basis, and Doorways relies on the people of Seekonk. Thank you again.

Lucky’s Pub Fights Hunger for a Third Year

On December 22, Lucky’s Pub in East Providence held their 3rd annual “Celebrity Bartender” fundraising event to raise money for food pantries in East Providence and Seekonk. It was a football Sunday afternoon, and the bar was filled with friends of three volunteer bartenders who tended bar for eight hours while donating all tips to two local food banks. Lucky’s Pub raised a total of $4,200 from the event.

Mike Boisvert (right) of the Seekonk Little League presents a check for $750.00 to Gerry McCabe of Doorways.

Mike Tortolani (far right), representing Lucky’s Pub, presents a check for $2,100 to Gerry McCabe, Peg Gardner, Mary Small and Diane Fox of Doorways.

This was the third annual fundraiser, which has donated over $12,000 to combat food uncertainty in the two towns. Doorways would like to thank Billy Lewis and Kevin Costa, the proprietors of Lucky’s Pub; we are fortunate to have such community-minded businessmen taking an active role in helping our neighbors in need. We would also like to thank Mike Tortolani, who donated his time as a celebrity bartender for the third straight year. On behalf of the families you are helping to feed, we say “Thank You”.

The Liquor Basket Supports Doorways

John and Maryann Jackson, proprietors of The Liquor Basket on Route 6 in Rehoboth, presented a check for $1,000.00 to the Doorways Food Pantry in support of the ongoing fight against hunger. Doorways is exceedingly grateful to the Jacksons and to the rest of their supporters in the community.

Support Seekonk Land Trust

Purchase a bag at Stop & Shop on Highland Ave anytime in February and $1.00 will be donated to Seekonk Conservation Land Trust. REDUCE- REUSE - RECYCLE www.SeekonkLandTrust.org

Meet Ramada!

She is a very playful young girl who certainly likes to pose for the camera. She is quite the character and as you can see from these photos, she has been waiting for the right person to bring her to her forever home. Ramada is about a year old and has been with us since the end of July 2024. She does tolerate other cats but probably do best as an only cat. She is not a fan of dogs and would be good with older children because she is so playful. Ramada does love treats, laser pointers, toys, and cat nip. She is spayed, up to date on vaccines, and microchipped. If you feel like you are missing something and need some excitement in your life Ramada just might be your answer. She will be waiting by the phone for your call (508)336-6663.

*Sustainable Seekonk*

By Christine Zadykovich, Recycling Coordinator at Seekonk DPW 508-336-7407

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

Seekonk DPW Offices (871 Taunton Ave) has textile collection bins & a Terracycle collection shed in the parking lot, and rechargeable batteries collection bin and eye glasses collection inside the lobby. Drop off fluorescent light bulbs-including CFL bulbs & tubes. These should never go in your curbside bins! String lights & extension cords are also accepted anytime. Propane tanks can be dropped off w/ purchase of blue sticker $8.50. Single use alkaline batteries, incandescent & LED bulbs can go in your blue bag trash.

The Terracycle collection shed has bins for many everyday items. This special recycling collection gets sent to Terracycle, where they hand process the materials into new things. We also receive funds for our collections, which can then be distributed to non-profit organizations. This January 2025, we were able to distribute checks to Doorways Food Pantry, Seekonk Land Trust, Martin Elementary PTO and Hurley Middle PTO. The more we collect, the more we can send next time! Reach out to the Recycling Coordinator at DPW anytime with questions, or drop off your items anytime at the shed outside DPW Offices @ 871 Taunton Ave.

Full list of accepted items for Terracycle Collection: Toothbrushes & Packaging, Toothpaste Tubes, Floss containers, Deodorant containers, Air freshener bottles/refills/plug ins, Pump and spray nozzle tops, Baby food/applesauce pouches, Entenmanns little bites & minis packs, Burt’s Bees, EOS, Herbal Essences, Weleda

Continued next page...

DATE

SAVE THE DATE FOR TWO GREAT EVENTS

28th Annual

Taste of the Tow n

28th Annual Taste of the Town 5:00PM –

1 4 th Annual Doug A llan Fishing Derby 9:00AM – 11:00AM

14th Annual Doug Allan Fishing Derby

9:00AM – 11:00AM

5:00PM – 8:00PM

Patriot’s Day Monday, April 21, 2024

Gerry McCabe of Doorways, John Jackson of The Liquor Basket.

Containers & Packaging, Late July & Off the Eaten Path chip bags, Dunkin Donuts @home coffee bags, Arm & Hammer & OxiClean plastic pouches/bags, Oxiclean plastic pouches/bags, Tide, Downy, Dreft, Bounce, Gain, NBD detergent, Electronic hair tools (iron, blow dry, etc), Black & Decker appliances & tools, Dewalt, Craftsman, Stanley, MAC, Bostitch tools, Aspercreme, Gold Bond, Icy Hot, Cortisone 10 Containers & Packaging, Allegra, Unisom, Zantac, Xyzal, Dulcolax, Nasacort Containers & Packaging, Royal Canin, Halo, Eukanuba, Wellness Pet Food Packaging, Herbal Essences, Head & Shoulders, Pantene, Selsun Blue Containers, Drink pouches (Capri Sun, Honest etc), Brita water filters, Huggies, Pull-ups, Scotts, Viva, Cottonelle, Goodnites, Poise, Depends, Kotex Plastic packaging

Seekonk Transfer Station/TARF (351 Fall River Ave) is open year-round Mon-Fri 8am-3pm for drop off of yard waste (leaves, grass, twigs). Upcoming Bulky Waste Days: Mar 8, Apr 12, May 10. Passes are $29 and can be purchased at the DPW offices.

Sustainability Survey: The Recycling Committee wants to hear from you! There is a survey posted on the Recycling Committee page on the town website www.Seekonk-MA.gov please help us understand what you’re interested in, what you need help with and what you’d like to see.

Food Waste Compost Collection at TARF: Black Earth Compost collection where residents can bring household food waste. Accepted items include: fruits & vegetables, egg shells, bread, cereal, meat & bones, wooden chopsticks & toothpicks, coffee grinds & filters and more. See BlackEarthCompost.com for a full list and tips on collection & transport. You can dump food waste directly into the bins or use certified compostable bags-no plastic bags please!

Don’t Trash It! Consider donating items that are still usable. If items are broken or no longer usable, pick up a special recycling packet at DPW or town website for FREE recycling resources. For items that are truly un-usable/un-recyclable, Bulky Waste Pickup stickers available for purchase at DPW offices for the 2nd & 4th Weds of each month for most items, 3rd Tues for metal/electronics, & 3rd Weds for mattresses/boxsprings.

The Library of Things- did you know the Seekonk Library has way more than books? With things like karaoke machines, metal detectors, stud finders, instruments, cameras, computers & more, it›s an amazing way to borrow what you need & save money!

Recycling Tip of The Month: Shredded Paper is NOT recyclableit should not go in your curbside bin (not even enclosed in a bag, and never put plastic bags in your bins!) Opt out of paper mailings to reduce the amount of papers that you receive that need to be shredded. Save your papers that truly need to be shredded, and take to a shred day at your local bank-or the town sponsored event at the library!

Please remember to recycle right, and…. Reduce-Reuse-Recycle (in THAT order!)

Seekonk Schools Apply to State for Building Aid

By Joe Siegel

Seekonk Public Schools will submit a Statement of Interest to the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) for construction or renovations to be conducted at Hurley Middle School.

Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell said the middle school would be part of the MSBA’s Core Program. It is intended for new construction, addition, and/or renovation projects.

Kidwell said if Seekonk is selected, “we will engage in a community study to determine the best options among those.”

School officials warned of a failure of the heating system at Hurley in a joint meeting with the town’s Select Board on January 6. Over $106,000 has been spent to patch the Hurley boiler since last July. “The reality is, that maybe in the next year or two, that heating system is going to fail,” said school committee member Kyle Juckett. “We’re going to be in a real hot mess. There needs to be a fix sooner rather than later. That is priority number one. It needs to be figured out.”

Kidwell said in addition to using school personnel to fix Hurley’s pipes, there have been calls made to 12 outside contractors to address the building’s heating problems. “We are just patching and patching and patching and eventually you get to the point where the pipes won’t hold together because they’re all patches,” Kidwell noted at the February 5, 2024 meeting.

Overcrowding is another concern. In the last few years, Seekonk has been experiencing a rapid population growth. For the 20232024 school year, there were a total of 2,061 students with 1,021 students at Aitken/Martin and 1,034 students at Hurley and the high school.

“I am comfortable making the argument based on the population data that we have, that if we don’t do something, we are creating a situation that would be unsustainable,” Kidwell said at Monday’s school committee meeting.

How much funding the MSBA would provide to the town for any work at Hurley is hard to predict, Kidwell noted: “Reimbursement is determined by a district’s demographic needs and individual elements of the project itself, such as LEED certification and local facility needs. It can range anywhere from about 30 to about 80 percent of the project cost.”

What’s New at Seekonk High School

By Joe Siegel

Seekonk High School has a new initiative called the “Win Block.”

“In between the second and third period of the day, there’s a 31 minute block that never used to be there before,” explained Principal William Whalen. “(Students) can decide where they want to go to get extra help from a teacher. If they don’t need extra help, they can take an academic pause like a social/emotional component where they can have breakfast in the cafeteria, they can (use) the gym, or work in the library.”

Whalen said the administrators went through different phases of what they wanted the time to look like. One proposed title was “The Warrior Block” before it was decided to name it the “Win Block.”

“The teachers were in favor of it so we got it into the contract and got it into the schedule and the (students) really really love it. It’s a great tool for us and part of the culture now.”

Whalen said he is hoping to get a DESE (Department of Elementary and Secondary Education) designation for Innovation Pathways. “We would be looking to get a pathway for Business and a pathway for Health Care,” Whalen explained.

Students would be able to take a pathway of courses and go out on internships before the time they reached their senior year. The programs would be paid for with grant funding. “We’ve also redesigned our programs of study to include some pathways. Our goal is within the next couple of years to give all our seniors the opportunity to get out and do internships.”

Enrollment has remained steady. This year, 510 students are attending classes. “We are really trying to encourage eighth graders to take a good serious look (at the high school) before they decide to go somewhere else,” Whalen said.

Hurley Middle School students were invited last November to take a tour of the high school and attend an activities fair. In early December, the middle school students get to spend a day “shadowing” a high school senior in their classes.

Whalen wrote two grants for Project Lead the Way. The high school offers engineering courses and biomedical science courses. “With those grants, we got the money for the equipment for those classes and training for the teachers. Everything is hands on and project-based. A lot of people didn’t know we had these Project Lead the Way classes. They didn’t know we had so many AP classes. Now they have maybe more of an interest in students coming to Seekonk High School than they have before.”

Former Selectman Pulls Papers for Seekonk Election

By Joe Siegel

Former Selectman Gary Sagar has taken out nomination papers to run for one open three year seat on the Seekonk Select Board. Select Board member Justin Sullivan’s term is expiring. The annual Town Election will be held on April 7.

Michelle Graf, Robert Gerardi, Jr., and Michael Novinson have taken out papers to run for two open three year seats on the Seekonk School Committee. Meaghan Mahoney and Emily Field’s terms are expiring.

Nelson Almeida has taken out papers to run for one open three year seat on the Board of Assessors.

TV9 personality Jeffrey Starr Mararian will be a write-in candidate for the Water Commission.

The other board and committee openings include:

• Three seats for the Library Board of Trustees (3-year term)

• Two seats for the Planning Board (5-year term)

• One seat for the Planning Board (4-year term)

Nomination papers are now available at the Town Clerk’s office. The deadline to submit papers is February 14 at 5 pm.

Seekonk Plans for Ad Hoc Committee

By Joe Siegel

There will soon be a five member ad hoc committee to make recommendations on repairs to town buildings, including schools. One member will be from the Select Board, one from the school committee, one from the finance committee, one from the Capital Improvement Committee, and one town resident. “This Select Board has listened to one sided reports from (the) school committee and everyone can take it for what it’s worth,” said Justin Sullivan. “Two members from the Select Board are not always going to agree, two members from the school committee are not always going to agree. Got get a tiebreaker in the middle if that’s what you need. That should be an independent resident.”

Seekonk School officials warned of a failure of the heating system at Hurley Middle School in a joint meeting with the Select Board on January 6. Over $106,000 has been spent to patch the Hurley boiler since last July. “That is significantly over what we would have budgeted,” said Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell. “We’re definitely in a challenging situation there. The biggest need is the heat by far.”

Select Board chair Michelle Hines believes getting the approval for major building projects from town residents will be more likely after the committee forms. “Hopefully, it will be an easier presentation because then we will all back each other up,” Hines explained.

Seekonk to Pay $950,000 in Asphalt Lawsuit

By Joe Siegel

The Town of Seekonk, including the Select Board and Board of Health, along with Bruce Hoch in his capacity as a member of the Seekonk Planning Board, will be paying $950,000 to settle a lawsuit with International Paving Corporation.

In December 2019, International Paving Corp., Seekonk Asphalt Corp., and 45 Industrial, LLC purchased 4.81 acres of property in Seekonk with the intent to permit, construct, and operate an asphalt plant. The town’s Planning Board approved the site plan. However, the potential construction of the asphalt plant resulted in opposition from Seekonk residents and municipal officials.

“When the Town passed the Noisome Trade Regulation (bylaw), thereby effectively blocking the project, plaintiffs withdrew their Mass. (Department of Environmental Protection) permit applications, likely in recognition that continuing to pursue the permits would be futile and a waste of resources,” United States District Court Judge Patti B. Saris wrote in her January 18, 2024 ruling. “Thus, the Court finds that plaintiffs’ lack of a permit should not defeat plaintiffs’ plausible claim that it has a protected property interest by virtue of the zoning use freeze granted by the Seekonk Planning Board.”

The settlement agreement was reached on December 4, 2024. “This settlement marks the culmination of a sustained and collaborative effort by the Board of Selectmen and the Board of Health to protect the public health, safety, and quality of life for all residents of Seekonk,” Town Administrator Shawn Cadime said via-email on Monday. Cadime defended the Town’s actions, stating they were following the letter of the law. “The Board of Health, in its capacity and authority under G.L. c. 111 s. 143, took decisive action by declaring the proposed asphalt plant a Noisome Trade,” Cadime explained. “This designation empowered the Board to prohibit uses that, while potentially allowed under local zoning, pose significant risks or nuisances to the community. The Board of Selectmen supported this stance, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to ensuring that an asphalt plant would not be sited in our community.”

“Both Boards worked tirelessly to uphold the interests of the community, and this settlement reinforces their shared commitment to safeguarding the environment, public health, and the quality of life in Seekonk. We thank our residents for their patience and support throughout this process. The Town remains dedicated to maintaining high standards for public health and community well-being and will continue to act decisively in the best interest of its residents.”

Eric Brainsky, the attorney for International Paving Corporation, noted the settlement was an affirmation of his client’s rights. “Although our client will not be made completely whole by this agreement, we are pleased that the parties were able to come to an amenable resolution of this case,” Brainsky said. “This dispute

serves as a lesson to any municipality that seeks to deprive property owners and businesses of their constitutionally protected property rights that there will be severe consequences for doing so, which in this case amounts to a cost of nearly $1,000,000 to the taxpayers, not including the tens of thousands of dollars in attorney’s fees and costs incurred over the last three years in order to get to this point.”

Seekonk DPW Facility a High Priority

By Joe Siegel

A new Department of Public Works (DPW) facility is a high priority, according to Seekonk town officials. Following the rejection of the $40 million project at last fall’s town meeting, the project is likely to be revived. The Select Board met with members of the DPW Building Committee to discuss how to move forward.

The facility would have been located on Town-owned land at 351 Fall River Avenue. The proposed design was for a 61,815 square-foot building. “If we’re going to be married to the site, let’s do it,” said member Justin Sullivan. “We need to get the resources and the funding. We can play with the budget and the engineering and a few other things, but that’s not moving the needle. We need to move the needle on this building. This building is a high priority for this town.”

Sullivan proposed putting an article establishing a building committee on the warrant for the Spring Town Meeting. Time is of the essence, according to Sullivan: “Every day is a wasted day for the guys at DPW. We’re going to have some other issues as the building continues to fail and these guys use duct tape, super glue, and bubble gum to keep it together.”

“We need a new DPW,” said Chair Michelle Hines. “We can’t keep neglecting things.”

The building is “already way past its lifetime,” said member Pam Pozzi. “We need to keep moving forward.”

Sullivan estimated the DPW would cost between $25 - 30 million.

The DPW Building Committee outlined the need for a new building on their webpage:

• Repairs/renovations needed would not fulfill the DPW’s current needs.

• Administrative spaces are insufficient for the current staff and lack infrastructure for security, technology, communication and energy efficiency.

• Crew spaces lack basic necessity for continuous operations, including restrooms, locker rooms, showers, and storage.

• Undersized service bays.

• Fleet and equipment exposed to the elements causing shortened equipment life.

• Lack of vehicle wash bay

A debt exclusion, which is a temporary tax increase to pay for the bonds on the project, was also rejected by voters in last November’s special election. 1,967 residents, representing 15.59 percent of eligible voters, cast ballots. 353 were in favor with 1614 in opposition. The average Single Family Tax Bill Impact would have been $267 a year for a period of 30 years.

Seekonk May Hold Vote for South End Fire Station

By Joe Siegel

Seekonk residents may have a chance to vote to fund a new fire station for the South End of town. Gary Sagar, a former Selectman and member of the Zoning Board, requested the Select Board place a warrant article on the Spring Town Meeting warrant. “It will be five years in June since this board requested town meeting voters allocate funds for the design (of the building),” Sagar said at the board’s January 8 meeting. “The project has just been shelved,”

Sagar continued. “As of this year, we will be paying $40,000 a year in interest on the money we borrowed for the design of the building project.”

In 2022, the Select Board voted to enter into a contract with Galante Architecture Studio to design the new facility. The firm was to be paid $321,000 for their work. Voters at the June 2020 town meeting had allocated $425,000 to pay for the cost of an OPM and design services leading up to construction of the project, according to Town Administrator Shawn Cadime.

In 2023, the Select Board had voted against placing a warrant article before the residents. Board members cited a possible lack of personnel to occupy the new facility based on the current shortage of firefighters. “I don’t know if I can support an $11 million building when we’re having staffing issues (in the fire department),” said Chris Zorra.

“For $11.2 million, that’s an awful lot of money to have an empty building,” member Pam Pozzi said, adding there were other building projects in the works, including a new Department of Public Works facility.

“The staffing issue has been ongoing,” said Justin Sullivan. “After holding discussions with the Fire Chief and the (firefighters) union, we want to try to get to manning levels that can sustain the units we have right now.”

“It is our job to provide the personnel for that project,” member Michael Healy said, noting 12 new firefighters would need to be hired if the station was to go ahead.

Fire Chief Graduates from Management Training Program

By Joe Siegel

Seekonk Fire Chief Shaun Whalen was one of the 37 graduates of the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy’s Chief Fire Officer Management Training Program on January 22.

“This isn’t a job, it’s a calling,” Whalen said at the ceremony. “It’s the reason we’re all here today. It’s the reason we’ve all endured the last 14 weeks of class.”

The four-month program for new chief officers and chief officer candidates is delivered jointly by the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy and the University of Massachusetts Edward J. Collins Jr. Center for Public Management. Through classroom instruction, out-of-

class assignments, and student presentations, the course delivers intensive training in the managerial aspects of leading a municipal fire department.

The Chief Fire Officer Management Training Program covers a spectrum of topics considered essential for effective public sector management. It includes human resource management, ethics, executive leadership, governmental and organization structures, information management, customer-focused strategic planning, legal issues, budgets and public finance, community awareness, and labor relations. The curriculum helps fire officers improve their ability to lead and manage personnel, understand employees’ needs and problems, communicate effectively to a variety of audiences, and leverage inter-agency cooperation. The Massachusetts Firefighting Academy, a division of the Department of Fire Services, offers this program tuition-free.

Seekonk Fire Chief Shaun Whalen with his diploma

Club News & ANNOUNCEMENTS

East Providence/Seekonk Rotary Club Announces Fundraiser to Help Save Butterflies

“Bellies for Butterflies” belly dance event at Healthtrax on March 11th to fund wildflower seeds for community

East Providence and Seekonk (January 27, 2025): The East Providence/Seekonk Rotary Club announces “Bellies for Butterflies,” a new fundraising event to raise money to purchase wildflower seeds for the community to plant and save the local butterfly habitat.

“Bellies for Butterflies” will be held from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Tuesday, March 11, 2025 at Healthtrax Fitness & Wellness, 15 Catamore Boulevard in East Providence (near the Seekonk line). Tickets are $20 pp and include hot and cold appetizers, non-alcoholic beverages, and a belly dance performance featuring local professional and semi-professional dancers from the community.

Each year, the Rotary Club purchases high-quality wildflower seeds in bulk, to package them into envelopes to pass out to parade-goers at the Riverside Memorial Day Parade. This year’s parade will be held on May 26, 2025.

“We are proud to do our part to support Operation: Pollination, a global environmental initiative to help save monarch butterflies and other important plant pollinator species right in our own backyards,” states Betty Galligan, a past president of the East Providence/Seekonk Rotary Club and former belly dancer who created the parade event for her Club in 2021. “Each Memorial Day, our colorful parade contingent grows as we now have more volunteers helping to pass out the seed packets dressed as butterflies, bumble bees and lady bugs.”

According to Galligan, seventy-five percent of the world’s plant species are dependent on pollinators, such as the monarch butterfly, to survive. Without pollinators, 30 percent of food in grocery stores would disappear.

Each winter, colonies of monarch butterflies gather annually in Mexico and fly to the southern U.S. to lay their eggs on milkweed plants. Their offspring then flies as far north as Canada to lay their own eggs. After a third generation of butterflies hatches at the end of summer, a fourth “super” generation heads back to Mexico –typically a 6,000-mile round trip journey and the longest known migration of any insect species. Data demonstrates that western U.S. monarchs have undergone a significant decline estimated at more than 95% since the 1980s.

The public is encouraged to plant wildflower seeds in their own backyards and garden spaces to attract butterflies. “Everywhere along their migration route, butterflies need a habitat to survive. If we can improve the habitat in our own community, we can be part of the solution,” states Galligan, whose late mother, a butterfly enthusiast, in part inspired the project. “Native plants provide nectar that nourishes the butterflies as well as other pollinators such as bumblebees, bats and moths.”

To purchase tickets to “Bellies for Butterflies,” and for more information about The Rotary Club of East Providence/Seekonk, visit: www.epseekonkrotary.org.

Events at the Seekonk American Legion Post 311 Paint Party to Benefit

Dogs for Veterans” – March 2nd

A Paint Party will be held on Sunday, March 2nd. We will be painting a “Red Cardinal with a snowy background” on canvas. Doors open at noon with painting starting at 1 pm. Tickets include all materials and one free beverage. There will be a cash bar. Reservations must be made in advance by February 21st in the amount of $35.00 per person, ages 16 and up. Please make checks/money orders payable to: American Legion Auxiliary, Unit 311 and mail to Donna Reed, 29 Lanesboro St, Pawtucket, RI 02861. Tickets are nonrefundable and will be mailed upon receipt of reservation. Please send any questions to auxiliary311@yahoo. com or Donnareedunit311@gmail.com or call/text Donna at 401-

from this event

Annual Spring Meat Raffles will be starting in April

Weekly Meat Raffles will be starting in April through May. Dates TBD. The raffles take place each Saturday at 2 pm. There are 3 tables of steaks, chicken, seafood, TV and other prizes. 50/50 raffle. Kitchen opens at 1 pm. Call 508-336-9822 for information.

Spring Psychic Fair – April 27th

We will be holding our Spring Psychic Fair on Sunday, 4/27/25. Admission is free. 15-minute readings are $20.00 each. There will also be several Vendors and Crafters (spaces are still available). The hours are from 10 am to 3 pm. Proceeds to benefit American Legion Auxiliary programs for our Veterans, community and children. For more information, please call Kathy at 401-434-8917 or send email to auxiliary311@yahoo.com.

Music at the American Legion

Friday Night Bands – starts at 8 pm

Rock A Blues – 2/7

Rock A Blues – 3/14

Block Party – 3/28

Hall Rental

200 person capacity. Contact Bob Reed for information at 508-336-9822

New Members are Welcome

American Legion - If you have served at least one day of active military duty since December 7, 1941 and were honorably discharged or you are still serving active military duty honorably, you are eligible for membership with The American Legion. American Legion meetings are held the 3rd Sunday of the month at 10am.

Continued next page...

Corned Beef & Cabbage Dinner

S ATUR DAY-MARCH 1 5

American Legion Auxiliary - Members are grandmothers, mothers, sisters, spouses (female/male), and direct /adopted female daughters or granddaughters of Veterans/members of The American Legion. A female Veteran can join the Auxiliary without being a member of the American Legion. American Legion Auxiliary meetings are held the 1st Sunday of the month at 11 am.

Sons of the American Legion – Members are male descendants, adopted sons and stepsons of Veterans/members of The American Legion.

For additional information call the Post at 508-336-9822.

351 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA 02771

Musicians for Performance and Travel Opportunities ~ BCFD

The Bristol County fifes & drums, Bristol’s hometown marching band, will begin their 2025 season in March with three St Patrick’s Day Parades in Rhode Island. The group will complete over a dozen performance events by the year’s end, including the annual Bristol 4th of July parade. Each season culminates with their annual concert tour, this year to Utah and Nevada.

On Sunday, February 2 the group will host their annual open recruitment workshop at their rehearsal space at The American Drum Company, 879 Arcade Ave, Seekonk, adjacent to The Gristmill Restaurant.

Anyone interested in learning more about this historical, musical organization, is encouraged to come to the free workshop. Positions in the fife and drum line are open as well as color guard and musketeers. Instruments, instruction and uniforms are provided by the group.

Please email to preregister: bristolcountyfd@gmail.com

Seekonk Lions Club News

Where can you find a place in Seekonk visited by 113 local families, over 300 people making 2500 shopping trips a year? Might it be Stop and Shop? Price Right? Gasbarro’s Fine Wine and Liquor? The Good Seed? Oscar’s Foodland?

Great guesses but they fell flat. These numbers come from Doorways Food Pantry. Doorways is the volunteer packed operation that serves “support and love” to local families who are struggling to put food on the table. As you see here in the Reporter, organizational chiefs, hardworking charitable institutions and the endowment minded have their picture taken handing over a check at Doorways to a representative. It is a noble act of kindheartedness. You have seen a few of us Lions presidents do the same. Being my turn this year I wanted to do something different. Of course, I got my picture taken handing over that check for $5000 to Gerry McCabe; but we did it at Micheletti’s and had breakfast with great conversation.

Gerry was dynamic in telling his passion for the working history of Doorways. A couple of Seekonk residents who “wanted to put their faith into action” conceived doorways back in 2001. Doorways is a 100% volunteer operation. Doorways has been at the Old North School for 20 years… before the South Coast Collaborative, a public special education day school, occupied the old school. They are a school for kids with social-emotional and behavioral challenges. The South Coast Collaborative has been a great landlord to Doorways. They have never changed requirements, are most helpful/ accommodating and are a great community partner.

To qualify to be a client or neighbor of Doorways, people need to see Seekonk Human Services. The USDA sets income guidelines, and if you fall in that guideline, passionate people are ready to serve. Something I did not know, most of the food comes from the Greater Boston Food Bank. There are donations from local farms, food drives, grocery stores, and such but Doorways purchases food at a subsidized cost to keep those coffers full. Three to five thousand

pounds, twice a month comes from the food bank while one third comes from the community. Interestingly, food donations are the least donation. The most are monetary, and those donations go to purchasing food from the food bank.

After enjoying our breakfast made personally by John Whitelaw, my business partner Gary, Treasurer Guy and myself took a visit that Saturday to the old North School to see and listen to what this organization Doorways has done for almost 25 years. When we arrived, Paul Hodge welcomed us. He was directing the “client” traffic outside that cold morning. What a nice person Paul is…so is Gerry. If you do not smile while you are talking to these two, you might need to have your head checked. Paul has been a member of Doorways for fifteen years. Gerry for eighteen. Members of the board, who are actively involved or “hands on” as Gerry says, have been serving for twenty-four years. Thirty to forty volunteers round up the dynamic staff accruing time served.

Gerry took us inside the school for a tour. It was 10am and the neighbors (clients) were thinning out. Gerry explained they received “unexpected” and tasty donations this week. They had a table outside for that quick pick. As we go inside, they have the layout of food to perfection. Aisles of cereals, canned soup, macaroni and cheese, boxes of crackers, Ramadan noodles, baked items, fresh fruit and vegetables. This abundance takes in the place of two old classrooms and the hallway in between. Business partner Gary pointed out he went to elementary class in one of these rooms, with an old chalkboard still intact!

Gerry says that space is tight, but they are not looking to move. They spend a lot of time trying to fit product constantly. There are fire regulations, and they need to keep the aisles clear. A nice benefit to Doorways being there is the town plows the parking lot. Which you can imagine helps so much especially when you have to break down skids of food from the food bank. One of the volunteers who keeps things moving is Diane Fox. Diane has been a longtime volunteer. She is the person who orders food from the Greater Boston Food Bank. Diane is there every Saturday making sure the operation that day runs like a well-oiled machine.

Another benefit of Doorways having a partner like the South Coast Collaborative are the students from the school. As I mentioned earlier, the kids have special needs, and they help periodically with the volunteer team. They participate in helping Diane break down skids of food and sorting product. Participation in helping Doorways is very special to these kids. They have limited opportunities to be part of certain activities, let alone being a volunteer at Doorways. Being a part of the gang at Doorways lifts their merit when they are there. They are proud to say, “I work for Doorways”! How about that?

Back to talk of donations, Gerry said October to January are the most donated months. Doorways sends out a letter every November looking for contributions. The monetary haul during this time funds their operation for a year. In addition, there is the annual Boy Scout food drive. The Mailman Carriers have a food drive on Mother’s Day. Local schools and churches have yearly food drives. Stop and Shop in the north and south ends have receptacles. The Seekonk Library, which also has a receptacle, runs a program swapping food for overdue items. For example, if you owe five dollars to the library for that overdue item, bring in five cans of food and they will call it even. How cool is that!

Gerry and Paul said they have open house for certain donors. They give a presentation on the clientele. The clientele tell of what Doorways means to them. You can view a few of these quotes on their web site. They stress the volunteers are very friendly and warm. It is a “Good Culture with a Friendly Vibe”. Clients become neighbors and friends to the volunteers. The volunteers know every client by name. Very social. They talk life celebrations and miseries. As Gerry put it, Doorways is not about food…its personal.

Saying goodbye to Gerry and Paul, I left there feeling like I wish I had known all this good vibe and work they do at Doorways years earlier. I was moved…no doubt. Gerry and Paul told me that the Seekonk Lions Club has been one of the largest monetary donors over the years. I was happy to hear that. We give a lot of money to Massachusetts Lions Eye Research, Lions International Disaster funds, and many groups and organizations in Seekonk but this one to me was the sweetest.

Just a quick note, as you can see on these pages, The Seekonk Lions club recently presented a check to the Seekonk American Legion Post 311 for $1000. The Legion has been a great friend and partner to us Lions. We have meetings and have our annual fishing derby banquet over there. Back in the day, I used to bartend there. I have known Russel, Kenny and Bob for years and they are great people. Someone always brings up the candles on the bar!

Lastly, I mentioned Mr. Rick Sousa as the president of the Seekonk Little League in my last scribe. I want to take that back. I heard he was, but that is not true. Ricks good a person and I want to thank him for pointing that error out.

Paul Doorways Food Pantry: www.doorwaysfoodpantry.org/ Seekonklionsma@gmail.com Seekonk Lions Charitable Trust Inc.

Ken Talbot and Paul Buckley

Rehoboth Lions Club News

There’s still time to sign up for the Rehoboth Lions Club’s first Family Fun Bingo Night.

Join your neighbors for Bingo night at Goff Hall on March 7th, 6:30 PM. The entire family is invited!

Cards are just $5 each or 3 for $10. Prizes for the winners! Call Karen at 508509-0020 or Mike at 508-222-2656 for more details! We hope to see you there!!

Do you have a community serviceminded neighbor or family member that you believe deserves some special recognition? If so, consider nominating them for the Russ Latham Rehoboth Lions Citizens Recognition night. Get your applications submitted early in advance of the April 13th deadline. The dinner and presentation will be held on May 21, 2025.

If you’d like the opportunity to serve your community, join us at the Rehoboth Lions Club. The club is 60 members today and we are always looking for new members to join our mission. If you’re interested in giving back to your town, we encourage you to attend one of our upcoming meetings or reach out for more information. Together, we can continue to make a positive impact on the lives of those in need. In addition, you get to network and work shoulder to shoulder with some neighbors that you will get to know better.

For more information or to join the Lions Club, be sure to check our website at www. rehobothLions.org for more details and opportunities to get involved.

Serving with Pride, Don Nokes, President, The Rehoboth Lions Club

Rehoboth Lions Club 1957-2025 2025 Nomination Form

The Russell Latham Citizens Recognition Awards Night

The Rehoboth Lions Club will honor people whose service to the community has surpassed

Expectations at a"RECOGNITION NIGHT BANQUET" to be held at Hillside Country Club on Wednesday May 21,2025

This form provide opportunity to nominate a person deserving in any of the following areas.

*** Please check the appropriate award and attach your one page nomination statement

1. JOSEPH DEROCHE OUTSTANDING SERVICE AWARD - Presented to a person whose service to the has served a wide range of the population and has required effort above and beyond that expected of the community general public

2. OUTSTANDING YOUTH - A young person whose personal qualities and achievements serve as models for other young people in the community

3. PUBLIC SERVANT - Presented to an elected or appointed town official or municipal employee whose actions have surpassed the expectations of there position

4. RAYMOND G. DYER HUMAMITARIAN AWARD - A person who actions and deeds have fostered attitudes of good will and fairness to all people of the community

5. RUSSELL LATHAM EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR- Presented to the professional educator in Rehoboth or DR HS whose dedication to the students and whose accomplishments in the field of education serve as models to both active professionals and those entering the profession

6. HEROISM AWARD - Presented to the person who placed personal saftey in jeopardy while aiding someone else in need

7. SENIOR CITIZEN OF THE YEAR - Presented to the senior citizen whose l1fe and accomplishments have served as an inspiration to others

8. OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT - A local resident may be recognized for individual accomplishment

9. RANDALL P. SILVEIRA PUBLIC SAFTY AWARD- A person of commitment, dedication and compassion while playing a key roll in promoting public safty in The Town of Rehoboth

10. ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP AWARD - In recognition of your significant contribution to, and long term stewardship and protection of Rehoboth's landscape

11.RICHARD NOONS COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD - Presented to an individual who has consistently been a leader in the community activities and service to others

12. GOOD NEIGHBOR AWARD - Presented in recognition of the many selfless acts to assist neighbors as well as community groups

Night Banquet

6:00pm Cash Bar Social 7:00pm Dinner $40.00 Per Person

American Legion Post 302 Public Events

• Try our Fish & Chips or Specials of the Week – every Thursday 4:00 till 7:00 P.M. & Fridays 4:00 – 7:30PM and Saturdays with a Band ONLY 6:00-7:30PM.Take Outs are welcome – call in your order in early for pickup at 508-252-9079

• Happy Hour! Sun, Mon, Tues, Wed 1/2 price Bar Menu 3-6:00PM

• Prize Bingo - Sunday December 15th at 5:00PM

• Trivia Tuesday and Darts Coming Soon - If you're interested in playing, email speedyjake@aol.com or call 315-415-2277

Travis,

• 2nd Sunday of Every Month, “All you can Eat Breakfast” 7:30am – 10:30am

• Check us out on Facebook - Photos since 2018 posted by our patrons… https://www.facebook.com/pages/American-LegionHall/258235277540573

For Events: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/657024961125913/

Upcoming Events

• February 8th, 2025 - Saturday - 7:00 - 10:00 P.M., – On 3 Entertainment, Classic Rock – Classic Rock & County – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME!

• February 9th, 2025 – Sunday -7:30 -10:30 A.M. American Legion Monthly Breakfast, Second Sunday of every month $12.00 donation - All you can Eat!

• February 14th, 2025 - Friday - 7:00-10:00 P.M., Greg Hodde’s Blue Reign, Classic Rock – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME! Play the Electronic Dart https:// open.spotify.com/artist/57RIFB8RMODxF0PXg6vVjT?si=%20 HGPY_GMWTAioT8epLo0GWg&nd=1

• February 15th, 2025 – Saturday – 7:00 -10-pm, “Vinyl Frontier Band” from Attleboro Area with Live Music Entertainment playing Classical Rock Music – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Dancing & having a GREAT TIME! https://www.facebook.com/ Vinylfrontierband/

• February 16th, 2025 – Sunday -5:00 -7:00 P.M. PRIZE BINGO! American Legion Auxiliary, Third Sunday of every month $10.00 donation per 5 Games – Food – Drinks & having a GREAT TIME!

• February 21st, 2025 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – Rock-A-Blues Band with Classic Rock Music – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! https://www.rockablues.com

• February 22nd, 2025 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M. – RENTED HALL

• February 28st, 2025 – Friday - 6:00-8:00 P.M., Sons of the American Legion’s Monthly Meat Raffle followed by Karaoke8:00-11:00 P.M. – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Singing, Dancing & having a GREAT TIME!

• February 28st, 2025 – Friday - 8:00-11:00 P.M. + – Live Karaoke performed by our own Karaoke Entertainment, Come on in and sing a song or two – No Cover Charge! – Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Dancing and sit back & having a GREAT TIME!

• March 1st, 2025 – Saturday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M.– Mike Higgins & The Dynamics - Live Music Entertainment playing Classic, Rock & Country - No Cover Charge! – Bar Food – Kitchens open – Fish & Chips - Check with the bar for the Specials of the week – Drinks –Entertainment, Dancing so sit back & have a GREAT TIME! Mike and The Dynamics |Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100063173623981

• March 7th, 2025 - Friday - 7:00 - 10:00 P.M., – On 3 Entertainment, Classic Rock – Classic Rock & County – No Cover Charge! –Food - Check with the bar for the specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, so sit back & have a GREAT TIME!

• March 8th, 2025 – Saturday - 7:00 - 10:00 P.M., RHODE RAGE, Classic Rock – No Cover Charge! – Bar Food – Kitchens open – Fish & Chips - Check with the bar for the Specials of the week – Drinks – Entertainment, Dancing so sit back & have a GREAT TIME!

• Meat Raffle Fundraiser followed when the Band Breaks - 7:0010:00 P.M. – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Singing, Dancing & having a GREAT TIME!

• March 9th, 2025 – Sunday -7:30 -10:30 A.M. American Legion Monthly Breakfast, Second Sunday of every month $12.00 donation - All you can Eat!

People In The News

Love on Display in Seekonk

If you drive along Route 152 in Seekonk, right across from the library and Gammino Pond, you’ll come across a delightful sight. The skeletons that usually bring spooky vibes during Halloween are now sharing the love! You’ll see a giant skeleton holding roses and a heart, a recreation of the Titanic scene, Lady and the Tramp, and more. Take a drive and check it out for yourself!

Rehoboth Garden Club

February News

For our February 17, 2025 meeting, club member and President of the Rehoboth Land Trust, Carol Entin will use her expertise as a botanist and entomologist to teach members about gathering seeds from native plants and how to grow them in their own milk jug greenhouses. Each participating club member will go home with two milk jug greenhouses-one planted for their own garden, and one to raise native plants for the RGC’s annual plant sale in May.

The RGC is very fortunate to have Vermont resident Charlie Nardozzi as our very special guest speaker for our March meeting. Charlie is a Regional Emmy Award winning, nationally recognized garden writer, speaker, radio and television personality. Learn more about him at www.gardeningwithcharlie. com. Charlie will discuss foodscaping, and innovative ways to grow beautiful edibles in your gardens.

Seen on Route 152! (Top photo by Earle Dias)

The community is invited to attend this special event. Please join us on Monday, March 17, 2025 at Goff Hall, 124 Bay State Road, Rehoboth MA at 6:30 PM. Refreshments will be served.

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

Rehoboth Garden Club Scholarship Winners

Paul Nunes, Rehoboth Garden Club President, and Linda Murphy, Scholarship Chair, were pleased to announce that checks were presented to our three 2024 scholarship winners. They are Taylor Sirois, a sophomore at Paul Smith College, majoring in Arboriculture, Madison Ohlgren, a freshman at UMass Amherst, majoring in Environmental Science and Avery Botelho, a freshman at Wheaton College, majoring in Environmental Science.

Thanks to the overwhelming success of our 2024 Annual Plant Sale, the RGC was able to award a total of $5,000 to these worthy recipients.

Rehoboth Garden Club 2025 Scholarship Deadline

Applications are now being accepted for our 2025 scholarships. High school seniors who will be entering college this fall, as well as current college students may apply. They must be majoring in agriculture, horticulture, floraculture, or a related environmental science. The application deadline is April 15, 2024. For an application, please contact Linda Murphy at Ljmurphy47bell@yahoo.com or Mary Louise Pacheco at 508-252-3975.

Paul Noons, Taylor Sirois, and Linda Murphy

Paul Noons, Madison Ohlgren, and Linda Murphy

Linda Murphy, Avery Botelho, and Paul Noons

University News

Local Students Achieve Dean’s List

• Western New England University (WNE): Nathan Clarke of Seekonk

• Saint Michael’s College: Wren M. Seccareccia of Rehoboth, Ashley R. Silveira of Seekonk

• St. Joseph’s College of Maine: Abbie Green-Sermak, of Rehoboth

• Curry College: From Rehoboth: Angelica Gonzales, Alexis Guertin, Lorelei Kellum, Karen Lawrence; From Seekonk: Maylin McKenna, Marisa Tenreiro

• Dean College: Jacob Murtagh, Kayla Hoogerzei

• Roger Williams: From Rehoboth: Adam Carulli, Brandon Johnson, Katherine Kimmell, Delaney Kotch, Sadie Miller, Aidan Moran, Mackenzie Morgenweck, Emma Oneill, Olivia Pacheco, Margaret Saxon, Mandi Wapenski; From Seekonk: Hannah Baldassi, Liz Bradshaw, Abigail Calamar, Shuwei Carlson, Sophia Custodio, Isabella Lastrina, Lilly MacDonald, Jane Maciel, Sydney Mello, Brooke Meyer, Eric Tech

• Hofstra University: Emily King

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute: Alexander Hardro of Seekonk, Joseph Mello of Seekonk, Alexander Tomellini of Rehoboth

• University of Alabama: Cecilia Neary, Collin Tenreiro

• University of Rhode Island: Seekonk: Ace Ayotte, CJ Cabral, Ethan Clarke, Sarah Douglas, Andrew Duhancik, Nathan Hill, Isabella Lachance, Victoria Luis, Jazlyn Monteiro, Kayla Owens, Felicia Paniagua, Joseph Perez, Olivia Soares, Hannah Sorrentino, Cullen Steitz; Rehoboth: Isaac Bates, Jack Guddie, Isabel Murdock, Megan Oliveira, Kayla Scofield, Aelyn Tougas, Benjamin Tran

• University of New England: Rehoboth: Aidan Fontaine, Callie Gouveia, Ella Slater, Jacob Suprenard; Seekonk: Jared Moran

• Nichols College: Derek Axon of Seekonk, MA

• American International College: Kegan Mcgonigle of Rehoboth

• Regis College: Corinne Braga of Rehoboth

• Stonehill College: Rehoboth: Peter Anghinetti, Emily D’Ambrosio, Hailey Enos, Rosalie Martin, Juliana Dias, William Kendall, Alexis Leonard; Seekonk: Robert Riccitelli, Connor Barbary

• Lasell University: Cameron LeBlanc of Rehoboth

• Quinnipiac University: Rehoboth: Alexandria Caito, Madelyn Kelley*, Sabrina Marsella, Madelyn Rock; Seekonk: Jacob Barreira, Caitlyn Murray

• Springfield College: Katelyn Moura from Rehoboth

Local Students Achieve President’s List

• Western New England University (WNE): Andrew Eklund & Christopher Strycharz

• Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU): Hannah Bradbury, Elizabeth Brady, Jake Henriques, Kira Feliciano, Ty Wheeler, Christine Miller, Liam Bradbury

• Nichols College: Sarah King of Seekonk, MA

• Plymouth State: From Rehoboth: Ava Pequeneza, Quincey Munson, William Kimmell; From Seekonk: Jack Tortolani, Lauren Kerwin

• Husson University: From Seekonk: Matthew Boutin & Cam Silva

Local Student Achieves Provost’s List

• Springfield College: Sara Santoro of Seekonk

WPI Students Complete Intensive Research Projects

The following local students were part of a team that completed an intensive project:

• Alexander Tomellini, class of 2026, majoring in Electrical and Computer Engineering, completed a project titled Promoting Authentic Indigenous Tourism in Panama.

• Noah Ferreira, class of 2026, majoring in Chemical Engineering, completed a project titled Final IQP Report- Boston-A24.

Enjoying Some Time on the Ice

Three families were out on the Warren Upper Reservoir on Reservoir Rd in Rehoboth on Sunday January 26th. The ice was 6 inches thick!

The Ranley family, the Andrade family, and the Syrett family were there from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM ice skating, hockey sticking, fishing and grilling hot dogs.

Regan Syrett enjoying a hot dog on the ice

Tom, Alyssa and Maggie Ranley

Brian, Regan and Colin Syrett

Photos by David Andrade Photography

Events & Activities

Bingo Night

Friday February 21, 2025

Holy Ghost Brotherhood of Charity 43 Broad St. Rehoboth, MA

Open To the Public Doors Open at 6 PM Game Start at 7 PM

$20.00 For 10 Games

Cash Prizes & Raffle Table Food & Beverages Will Be Available Questions Call Connie 401-465-1839

Arts in the Village Concert

February 23, 2025 2:30 PM

Come and hear quality chamber music in a friendly casual atmosphere. All Welcome! Goff Hall at Blanding Library, 124 Bay St. Rd. Rehoboth, MA

Adults $25, Children/Students $10

Free and handicapped parking

The Champlain Trio captivates audiences with their compelling performances and deep dedication to the arts. Formed in the spring of 2020, Julliard graduates, violinist Letitia Quante, cellist Emily Taubl, and pianist Hiromi Fukuda, all Vermont residents, united during a time when concerts, tours, and festivals were halted. This pause in their usual schedules provided a unique opportunity for them to come together and form an ensemble dedicated to bringing high-quality chamber music to the community.

For more information: 508-431-6879 • Arts in the village is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization.

The Champlain Trio

ChurCh News & eveNts

Seekonk Congregational Church Sunday Services

We hope you will join us each Sunday at Seekonk Congregational Church UCC at our weekly services with Communion in the Sanctuary at 600 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk, MA with Interim Minister Rev Dr Ruth Shaver. All services begin at 9:30 and all are welcome. Licensed infant/preschool day care is available every week. Check us out, you will be happy you did. We will continue to record our services and they are available the following day at Seekonk Congregational Church YouTube. Church School classes are also at 9:30 each Sunday with children starting in church on the 1st Sunday of each month.

Italian Night Dinner - Sat Feb 22nd 5:00-7:00PM

We will serve two main courses: ‘Spaghetti & Meatballs’ and ‘Ziti with Broccoli and Chicken’ along with salad and Italian bread. Vegetarian Options will be Available. Ice Cream Sundaes for dessert.

Tickets will be on sale after Church at Coffee Hour or call the Church Office at seekonkucc@gmail.com (508-336-9355) to reserve your tickets. Reservations are suggested but walk-ins are welcome, eat in or take out.

Ticket prices are $15 for adults and $5 for children ages 5 to 12. Children under age 5 are free.

Ash Wednesday March 5, 2025

Please join us at one of our 2 services Noon or 7 PM

On-Going Mission Concerns & Needs

• We Have Food Pantry For Anyone You Know Who Have Financial Challenges: granola/cereal bars, cereal, food in pouches that doesn’t need heating, pasta, spaghetti sauce, rice, beans, tuna, peanut butter, all types of Non Perishable food. Donations are welcome at any time.

• The Clothing Shed is at the end of the County Street parking lot. Drop off your clothing, shoes, belts, purses, blankets, sheets, curtains, pillowcases or stuffed animal donations in a tied-up bag.

• Cans & Bottles MA deposit Only: Save the environment and people!! Bring donations to the green bins - Fall River Ave parking lot- lift lid - drop in clean bottles and cans. DEPOSIT ONLY, no water bottles please

• The Food Pantry has been selected as a nonprofit partner in the Stop & Shop Bloomin’ 4 Good Program. We will receive $1 for each specially marked $10.99 Bloomin’ 4 Good bouquet sold during the month of February 2025 at the Highland Avenue (Route 6) Seekonk location.

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

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

Rehoboth Congregational Church

Worship

With Us

Every Sunday | 10am

The Rehoboth Congregational Church worships every Sunday at 10 AM. Join us for a wonderful blend of traditional worship with a modern twist. We sing, we laugh, and we enjoy the fellowship of one another’s company while strengthening our faith and serving others. If you are traveling or not quite ready for crowds, you can still worship with us! Our Sunday services are live streamed both on our website www.rehobothcongregational.org/worshiponline and on our YouTube Page https://www.youtube.com/@rehobothcongregational/streams

Weekly Bible Study | Thursdays | 10AM

Join us for weekly Bible Study, led by Pastor Andrew Simon. Bible Study takes place every Thursday at 10am in Fellowship Hall!

Missions Monthly Breakfast | February 9th

Missions will be holding their monthly pancake breakfast on February 9th after Sunday Morning Worship in Fellowship Hall. A free will offering will be accepted - Join Us for Food, Fellowship & Fun!

Mardi Gras Sunday | March 2nd | 10 AM

Let The Good Times Roll! Join RCC during Sunday Morning Worship as we celebrate Mardi Gras Sunday as a tradition with us!

Ash Wednesday | March 5th | 7pm

Join Us for Ash Wednesday in the Sanctuary at 7pm. Get your ashes and take in a beautiful worship service.

Newman Congregation Church Events

February & March

Racial Justice Book Discussions

As part of Newman Congregational Church, United Church of Christ’s ongoing commitment to education and dialogue on structural racism and white supremacy, we invite the wider community to participate in our monthly book discussions.

Each month the book group meets using Zoom on Monday evenings from 7 to 8:30 p.m. EST for three consecutive weeks.

February 2025 - discussion of “Nice Racism” by Robin Diangelo will be held on Monday, February 3, 10 & 17.

March 2025 - discussion of “Loving Corrections” by Adrienne Maree Brown will be held on Monday, March 3, 10 & 17.

These book studies are made up of diverse participants studying and discussing books about racism in a space of respect. Interested participants may visit our website to register at newmanucc.org/ ministries/racial-justice.

Music for Flute, Violin, and Piano

Sunday, February 16, 2025 at 3:00PM

Newman Congregational Church, United Church of Christ is pleased to present a concert titled Music for Flute, Violin, and Piano. This concert will feature Barbara Youmans on flute, Jonne Gomes on violin, and Geoffrey Greene on piano. The public is cordially invited and there is a suggested donation of $15. A reception will follow the concert with an opportunity to meet the musicians.

This concert is one in a series of concerts to feature Newman Church’s new K. Kawai grand piano. This piano is the generous gift of a benefactor and was installed in the autumn of 2023. The concert will include works for trio by Telemann and Ibert that demonstrate the counterpoint of Baroque music and the deeply emotional word painting in Romantic music. Pieces for flute and piano include traditional Gaelic tunes, a catchy modern setting by Henry Mancini, and a jazz tour de force by Claude Bolling. Pieces for violin and piano include gorgeous settings of 4 Short Pieces by English composer Frank Bridge. The program will demonstrate how our new piano can be effective in providing accompaniment to other instruments in addition to choral accompaniment or solo repertoire.

The proceeds from this concert support Newman Church’s Music program. Newman’s choir is anchored by 4 professional singers and performs concerts regularly. Previous concerts have raised significant funds for our Bread of Life food pantry, for Newman’s Racial Equity Scholarships, and other worthy causes. Barbara Youmans is Newman’s alto section leader and Jonne Gomes is Newman’s bass section leader. Both singers are lifelong instrumentalists and are delighted to share their talents on flute and violin to help show off our new piano! Geoff Greene is in his 24th year as the Minister of Music at Newman.

Community Covenant Church News

Are you looking for help and hope? Every week at Community Covenant Church, we strive to bring that to everyone who walks through our door through the good news of the gospel of Jesus. Through relevant preaching and modern worship that engages all ages from birth to empty nesters. For more information on our programs and current sermon series, check out www.communitycovenant.church. We hope to see you in person or online this Sunday at 10 am.

REHOBOTH BAPTIST CHURCH

132 Moulton Street (Route 118)

Rehoboth, MA 02769

SUNDAY SERVICES: Sunday School - 9:00 am The Lord’s Service - 10:30am Prayer Meeting - 6:00pm WEDNESDAYS:

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

News and Notes from... Blanding Library

By Leslie Patterson

Bruins PJ Drive Underway

The Mass Board of Library Commissioners, along with DCF/ Wonderfund and Cradles to Crayons, are once again taking part in the Boston Bruins PJ Drive by collecting NEW pajamas for kids and teens in need from Feb. 1 to March 15. A donation basket will be located inside the Blanding library for the pajamas, or one may choose to visit the Boston Bruins PJ Amazon Wish List to have their donation sent directly to Cradles to Crayons. At the end of the drive, all donated pajamas will be picked up and distributed to local kids and teens in need.

Museum Passes and Story Hours

The library is installing a new online system for reserving museum passes. Please call the Blanding at 508-252-4236 if you are experiencing any difficulties with this system. Remember that discount library passes to many local attractions can be borrowed from the library with your library card. Good to know as school vacation week is on the way.

Regular children’s programs in February include Tot Time on Tuesdays at 10:30, Story & Craft hour on Thursdays at 10:30, and LEGOS on Sat. Feb. 8; drop in between 11 and 2:30 and make something special.

Local Author on Feb. 13, at 10:30

Local author Emely Varosky, creator of the children’s book series, “Skoshie & Friends”, will read one of her stories followed by a craft on Thurs. Feb. 13 at 10:30. Open to children ages 3 to 5.

RD Chimney Sweep

Siblings are welcome. No registration needed. Emely’s books include “Strange Wild Beings”, “Just a Small Dragon”, and “Because You Can”, and will be available for purchasing and signing.

Carla Marrero returns Feb. 20, at 10:30

Author/illustrator Carla Marrero returns with her new children’s book, “Babs and the Rainbow Realm”. What happens when the local shelter is set to close? Will the cats have a place to go? Come listen as Carla reads this heartwarming tale of love and friendship, followed by a simple craft on Thus. Feb. 20. For children ages 3 and over. No registration needed.

Friends Memberships

Speaking of children’s programs, did you know that many of the programs that the Blanding offers at no cost to local children (and adults too) are made possible through the Friends of the Blanding Library? Membership renewal forms are now being sent out to members of the Friends. We greatly appreciate your renewing your membership in this all-volunteer organization.

With your support, contributions from memberships go to fund benefits and resources at the library. Thanks to membership contributions, these funds help pay for programs for local residents that otherwise the library would not be able to offer. New members are always very welcome as are any additional donations. You can find Friends of the Library membership forms at the front desk at the library. We thank everyone for their contributions.

More about Ancient Greece

Hank Coleman continues his popular history discussion series every Wednesday at 11 am at the library. This season the group is exploring the world of the ancient Greeks. This group is open to all with an interest in history. For more info, contact hjcoleman@ comcast.net.

You can find more information under Blanding Library Programs and Events on https://rehobothantiquarian.org/ The Blanding Public Library, 124 Bay State Rd. Rehoboth, is open Monday through Thursday from 10 to 8, and on Fridays and Saturdays from 10 to 4. Closed Sundays and holidays. The library will be closed for Presidents’ Day on Mon. Feb. 17. Phone: 508-252-4236.

Children’s author Emely Varesky will visit the Blanding on Feb. 13

Seekonk Public Library

An Author’s World:

An Interview with Autumn Allen

Tuesday, February 11 at 6:00 PM

Autumn Allen is an award-winning author, editor, educator, and children’s literature specialist. Her debut young adult novel, All You Have to Do (Kokila/Penguin, 2023), was long listed for the Massachusetts Book Award and was a People Magazine must-read for fall 2023, a Kirkus Reviews Best Young Adult Book of 2023, and a Black Caucus of the ALA debut honor award winner. In an interview with Seekonk Library’s Teen Librarian, Carla Rennick, Autumn will discuss her novel, as well as what it’s like to be a published author and editor. The interview will be followed by an audience Q&A and book signing. Copies of All You Have to Do will be available for purchase at the event. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Seekonk Public Library. This 90-minute in-person event is free and open to the public. Space is limited and registration is required. For more information, call Teen Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email teens@seekonkpl.org.

Library Tech Class:

Binge the Library and Save Your Cash with Free Streaming

Services

Tuesday, February 11 at 2 PM

Do you want to get more out of your smartphone or tablet? Bring them to our new monthly Library Tech Class. In each session we will provide an introduction to the most useful tools available to use on your mobile device or help getting started. This program is open to smartphone, tablet, and laptop users. You must bring your own device, one device per person; make sure the device is fully charged. Space is limited; registration is required. Register in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events. For more information or for help with registration, call Adult Services at 508-336-8230 x56130 or email library@seekonkpl.org.

Free Sound Healing Session for Stress Relief

Wednesday, February 12 at 6 PM

Come explore the many benefits of immersing yourself in a sound journey as our Healthy New Year Series continues. Presenter Claudia D’Emilia Iafrate will help you experience the calming vibrations of music, voice and instruments that promote multi-dimensional well-being. Sound healing counters many symptoms caused by chronic stress, releases stored-up energy and stagnant emotions, and lowers stress levels. This program is free and open to the public, but space is limited; registration is required. Register in the online Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events. For more information or help registering, call Adult Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email library@seekonkpl.org.

Get Moving This New Year with Bollywood Dance

Thursday, February 20 at 6 PM

Seekonk, MA – Move your body this winter by exploring the dynamic world of Bollywood dance, part of our Healthy New Year Series. You will learn basic moves and choreography in this expressive dance form highlighted in Indian cinema. This 2-week series

taught by Sakina Sojar is open to all skill levels. This program is free and open to the public, but space is limited; registration is required. Register for one or both session dates separately in the Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events. For more information or help registering, call Adult Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email library@seekonkpl.org.

Pop-Up Paper Spheres

Monday, February 24 at 6:00 PM

Join us for a hands-on papercraft workshop where you’ll learn to assemble pop-up paper spheres from intricately cut cardstock. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a beginner, this workshop will guide you through each step, so you leave with both a completed project and new paper crafting skills. All materials will be provided. This program is free and open to the public; space is limited and registration is required at seekonkpl.org/events. For more information, call Adult Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email library@seekonkpl.org.

Nonfiction Book Club: Furious Hours by Casey Cep

Tuesday, February 25th at 6:00 PM

Join us for a lively discussion of Furious Hours: Murder, Fraud and the Last Trial of Harper Lee by Casey Cep. The title is available digitally as an ebook and audiobook through Libby, or you may place a hold and pick up a print copy at the library. New members are always welcome! For more event information, visit www.seekonkpl. org or email library@seekonkpl.org.

Rube Goldberg Machine Challenge

Thursday, February 27 at 3:00 PM

Rube Goldberg Machines: A marble rolling down a ramp knocks into a domino, which knocks over a trail of dominos, until the last one falls onto a lever. The lever releases a pulley that activates a switch, and so on, until the entire chain reaction comes to its glorious culmination and achieves the vital, monumental goal of…ringing a tiny brass bell. This 1-hour event is free and open to tweens and teens in grades 6 through 12. Registration is required. Sign up using our new Events Calendar at seekonkpl.org/events. For more information, call Adult Services at the library at (508) 336-8230 or email teens@seekonkpl.org.

Oscar Buzz Movies Series Begins

Thursday, February 27 at 5:30 PM

Come and watch this new DVD release for FREE at Seekonk Public Library: This dramatic tale of a struggle for power within the Vatican stars Ralph Fiennes and John Lithgow. Rated PG, Runtime 2 hours.

Mark your calendars for this series to continue Thursday, March 20 and Thursday, April 13, titles and times to be announced.

Selections are subject to change based on availability. Licensing prevents us from printing titles; call the library at 508-336-8230 ext. 56130 or email library@seekonkpl.org for the title and other details. Register in the calendar at seekonkpl.org/events for planning purposes and to receive important program updates.

2025 Pajama Drive

Help us reach our goal of 300 pairs of pajamas! The Seekonk Public Library is thrilled to announce its participation in the 18th Annual Boston Bruins PJ Drive! This initiative collects new pajamas for children and teens in need across Massachusetts. From February 1 through March 15, 2025, we invite the community to drop off donations of new pajamas in sizes from newborn to teen. Donation boxes will be available at the Library, Human Services, Town Hall, and Public Safety during normal business hours.

What we are collecting:

Brand-new pajamas, appropriate for all seasons, and in all sizes. Please do not give pajamas that include any family or holiday references. Our most needed sizes are:

• Girls: 18-24 months, 2T, 3T, 5/6 (child S), 14/16 (child XL/adult S), 18/20 (child XXL/adult M)

• Boys: 18-24 months, 2T, 5/6 (child S), 7/8 (child M), 14/16 (child XL/adult S), 18/20 (child XXL/adult M)

For more information, please visit Seekonk Public Library’s website https://seekonkpl.org/ or call us at 508-336-8230 Together, we can make a difference!

Friends of the Seekonk Public Library News

Our next big book sale will be on Saturday, February 15th from 9 to 3 in the library’s meeting room. If you have any books or puzzles to donate for our sale, please bring them to a volunteer in the lobby of the library. Thank you to all who donate books and puzzles for our daily lobby and quarterly big sales. The proceeds go to supporting library programs not funded in the town’s budget.

Youth Services

Neighborhood Forest-Earth Day Free Trees!

Seekonk Public Library is proud to announce that we are a 2025 program partner and you can register for your child’s free tree through the library! Neighborhood Forest aims to provide native and/ or edible fruit-bearing trees in all the regions they serve. Register your child for a free tree, and pick it up at the Seekonk Library in time for Earth Day 2025! Register.

Kid Librarian of the Month

February 1-28

Ages 7-12 Stop by the Children’s Room to fill out an application for the chance to become the Kid Librarian of the Month. As a Kid Librarian, you will receive an official t-shirt and be in charge of creating a book display with a theme of your choice. You will also make a sign to accompany the display. If needed, the Kid Librarian can ask the Librarian for assistance setting up the display.

Kids Paint Class with Mermaid Masterpieces

Tuesday, February 4 6:30-7:30 PM

Grades 1-5 Join Becky from Mermaid Masterpieces for an unforgettable high-energy paint party! This fun-filled event invites young artists to dive into a world of color and creativity. Becky will

lead the group through a painting class, sometimes using music and interactive challenges to keep everyone engaged and inspired. Get ready to unleash your imagination and make a splash with paint! Registration required.

Beyblade Club

Wednesday, February 5 4:30 PM

Drop in Join us at the library for Beyblade Club for kids in grades 1-5. We will have free play time to battle (bring your Beyblades and stadiums or use the library’s limited supply). This program is drop-in; no registration is required.

Little Explorers Sensory Playgroup

Saturday, Feb 8 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

All kids ages 2-5 with a caregiver Drop in to play with various toys and unique materials to engage the senses and support the development of motor, memory, communication, and problemsolving skills in a fun and welcoming environment. This program is for children of all abilities.

Paws to Read

Wednesday, February 12, 26, 3-4:30 PM (timeslots)

Register to reserve a 15-minute time slot to have your child read to Gizmo and Pepe, two adorable chihuahua/pomeranian mix therapy dogs. Research has shown that reading aloud to another person can help struggling readers with their overall performance and confidence. But did you know that reading comprehension improves even more when reading to a dog rather than an adult? It’s true! Each one-on-one private session is facilitated by Sandra Healey and her two dogs. Space is limited. Register.

School Vacation Specials

Dragon Tales Storytime

Tuesday, February 18 10- 11 AM

Join us for Dragon Tales Storytime for ages 3 and up. We will read stories, sing, dance, make an air-dry clay dragon eye. Register.

The Poop Museum

Wednesday, February 19 10-11 AM

Ages 5+ At The Poop Museum, everyone learns A LOT, and some of the facts that are shared are mind-blowing! But The Poop Museum is also full of laughter ... because ... well ... our subject is poop and Susie has found a wonderful way to blend solid science, with the hilarity that humans love when it comes to poop. We look forward to seeing you at the library! Registration required. Space is limited.

Visit with Blades of the Boston Bruins!

Wednesday, February 19, 1 PM

Come to the library and meet Blades, hear a story, and enjoy crafts and activities such as beading and coloring. If you’d like to make a PJ donation, it’s the perfect time to do that as well! All ages are welcome but registration is required as space is limited!

Animals in Winter with Oak Knoll

Thursday, February 20 10 AM

Ages 4.5-9 Join the Educators from Oak Knoll/Mass Audubon Society for an adventure into the world of hibernation! This exciting class will explore how different animals survive the cold winter months by hibernating. Registration required.

Storytimes

Baby Storytime

Tuesdays, February 4, 11

Ages 0-18 Bring a baby blanket for the floor and enjoy a book followed by music, fingerplays & movement. Afterward, enjoy free time for belly time. Babies will be free to crawl through a tunnel, play with toys, read a board book, and enjoy bubbles with you. Drop in.

Toddler Storytime

Mondays, February 3, 10

Ages 18-36 months Storytime will include a book or two followed by music, fingerplays, movement, and yes, even bubbles! Drop in.

Preschool Storytime

Thursday, February 13

Ages 3-5 Join Ms Sandie for a weekly storytime for the preschool crowd (ages 3-5)! Younger siblings are welcome! Each week we’ll be reading 2-3 stories and completing a related activity. Drop in. As always, our storytimes focus on talking, singing, reading, writing, and playing- important principles for YOUR child’s language development and reading readiness!

Storytime on the Go

February 1-28

Create a storytime experience at home with Storytime On The Go packets. Each packet will include books and an age-appropriate literacy activity. The early literacy activities will support one or more of the five early literacy practices: talking, singing, reading, writing, and playing.

Storytime On The Go packets are available for toddlers and preschoolers- just choose the packet that’s right for your child. Stop by the Children’s Room to pick yours up!

Rehoboth Ramblings

by Leslie Patterson

Tunes for the Times

When watching the news these days I often think of the Beatles singing “I read the news today, oh boy”. Oh boy, indeed. My vote for song for our times would go to Paul Simon’s “American Tune”, even more relevant now than when it was first recorded. Then there’s the old saying (said to be a Chinese curse) “May you live in interesting times”. I’d rather live in boring times; boring is soothing and very underrated.

I’m sure the Californians who watched their whole neighborhoods torched by wildfires last month would be happy to be able to spend a boring day in their old house like before. These fires were so horrifying that one fireman described them as like a hurricane with fire rather than water. Rain is desperately needed out west but sudden deluges will cause floods, mudslides and landslides where there are burn scars.

“Fire and Rain” comes to mind for California too, at least the title if not the song itself. But most of all I kept thinking of how bitterly ironic that line from “California Dreamin’” is now: “I’d be safe and warm if I was in LA”. Not all of LA was on fire; it just seemed like it. California has always had fire/drought periods followed by floods and deadly debris flows, but not like this, with so many people living in the high-risk zones and a population that has doubled in the past few decades.

Many of us around here have vacation memories of happy times spent in California, and others have friends and family there. So even though it’s on the other side of the country, it is very much on our minds. How will it be possible to recover from such a catastrophe and where will all the now-homeless people find a place to live? And what’s going to happen to homeowners’ insurance in the coming days, months, years?

• PVC

• Custom Cedar

• Farm Fencing

• Dog Runs

• Chain Link

• Ornamental Aluminum

• Arbors

Specializing in a Variety of Fencing Styles

So, I guess I shouldn’t complain about the so-called polar vortex, however much I hate the bitter cold. Then there was that day in late January when New Orleans got a lot more snow than we did, though I know our luck could change at any moment.

But anyone who doesn’t think the weather hasn’t become more extreme is not paying attention or is in denial. Of course, there have always been weather disasters all over the world, but they never seem to have come so thick and fast. Hurricane-force winds ravaged Ireland and England in January too, causing great damage, and there have been too many floods all over the world to keep track of.

Meanwhile, closer to home, my concerns are much more mundane. There’s a bit of a buzz around both a Whole Foods and a Market Basket (something for everyone) opening in a year or so in Seekonk. The general reaction seems to be Yay! followed by “What’s the traffic going to be like?” Traffic is already backed up on Rt. 6 and adjoining streets at certain times.

A Market Basket located between Target and Walmart? I guess in the future I’ll have to get to the stores as soon as they open on a Tuesday morning. Forget the weekend. And yet in certain spots, Rt. 6 is nothing but a long line of abandoned stores and businesses. The Showcase Cinema (closed a few weeks ago) looks forlorn sitting there empty awaiting its fate. On the other hand, I haven’t been inside a movie theater since before the pandemic.

In animal news, Chinese New Year marks the Year of the Snake, my least favorite animal. Make of that what you will. Then there’s poor Punxsutawney Phil who is dragged out of a sound sleep in the midst of hibernation every February 2 to predict the coming of Spring. Last year one of Phil’s cousins bit his/her handler on Groundhog Day. Let sleeping groundhogs lie.

It’s a quaint old custom but the poor rodent doesn’t have a degree in meteorology. And why is it a groundhog on February 2 and a woodchuck when it’s getting into people’s gardens in the summer? In any event, these critters know no more than we do about the coming of spring. It’s usually six more weeks of winter around here anyway. From my point of view, Spring can’t come soon enough, bringing Daylight Savings Time with it. I’d rather we were all singing along to “Here Comes the Sun.” 401-722-8132

SCOUTING AROUND

Seekonk Troop 1 And Troop 9 Scouts Are Staying Active In The New Year

The holidays, cold weather, and New Year didn’t slow down Seekonk’s Scouts. In January, Seekonk’s Troop 1 and Troop 9 Scouts participated in their most recent camping trip. Troop 1 and Troop 9 scouts held their second cold weather camping trip of the season at Camp Norse in Kingston, Massachusetts. The January trip involved two nights in Camp Norse’s cabins. During the weekend trip the scouts practiced outdoor skills, completed a cold weather hike, worked on rank advancement, and enjoyed other fun outdoor activities.

Additionally, Seekonk Scouts continue to attend regular Tuesday evening meetings. During the meetings scouts plan and coordinate future trips and activities, practice scouting skills such as knot tying, and complete rank and merit badge requirements. This month, the scouts were joined by several new members. The new scouts had the opportunity to begin their scouting journey with their first scout camping trip.

This month, one scout achieved the rank of Eagle. The Eagle Scout rank is the highest rank a scout can achieve is only attained by approximatley 5% of all scouts.

For more information about Seekonk Scouts contact troop1seekonkma@gmail.com for boys or Troop9SeekonkMA@gmail. com for girls. Scouts is open to all boys and girls between the ages of 11-17.

Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District PreK Screenings

Dighton Elementary and Palmer River Elementary Schools are now taking appointments for PreK screenings for the 2025-2026 school year. Residents of Dighton and Rehoboth with children who are three or four years old and interested in a screening may call Linda DeLeo at Palmer River Elementary School or Allison Hanson at Dighton Elementary School between 9:30 AM and 2:30 PM.

Screening Process

This screening process is for new applicants who live in Dighton or Rehoboth and whose child will be at least 3 years of age by August 31, 2025. Screenings are conducted for two main purposes:

1. Lottery Eligibility for the Integrated PreK Program: Children who complete the screening process will be eligible for a lottery to fill available spots in the Integrated PreK Program at their respective schools. This program provides a play-centered, interactive, curriculum-rich experience, integrating typically developing children as role models for children in need of special education services.

2. Special Education Identification: The screenings also help identify students who may benefit from further evaluations and/or special education services.

Scheduling and Appointment Details

Please call Linda DeLeo (PRES) @ 508-252-5100 x3104 or Allison Hanson (DES) @ 508-669-4245 x1107 to arrange an appointment. We request that all appointments be scheduled by February 14, 2025. Screenings will be held during the week of February 28, 2025, and take approximately 45 minutes.

Please bring the following to your appointment:

• Your Child

• Parent/Guardian Driver’s License

• Proof of residency (recent utility bill, or tax statement, mortgage or lease statement, etc.)

Important: A screening cannot be completed without a secured appointment time.

We look forward to meeting you and your child as part of this process. If you have any questions, please reach out to:

Palmer River Elementary School

Kristine Kefor, Principal

Cheryl Leandro, Assistant Principal Phone: 508-252-5100

Dighton Elementary School

Katelyn Lima, Principal

Christina McGourty, Assistant Principal Phone: 508-669-4245

Got Stuff???

Support the Dighton-Rehoboth Marching Band with a donation to their annual yard sale!

All types of items are needed – clothing, toys, tools, household items, etc. Please be kind enough to make sure that all donations are in new/good, useable condition. We can’t accept upholstered furniture, televisions, mattresses, broken items, or other items at our discretion

To arrange for a pick up or drop off of items, please reach out to Jenn. TEXT 774-488-4325 or E-MAIL treasurer@DRMBboosters.org

DRMB Boosters is a 501c3 charitable organization. Donation letters available upon request.

Beckwith Middle School Receives National Banner Recognition!

We are thrilled to share that Beckwith Middle School has been recognized as a Unified Champion School by the Special Olympics—an honor bestowed on only 19 schools in Massachusetts and 205 nationwide.

Former Unified parents and players, please join us on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at 1:30 PM for the Raising of the National Banner ceremony, a momentous occasion to celebrate this remarkable achievement.

The excitement continues with the Blue & White Game at 3:00 PM, where former players are invited to join the action and make it a game to remember!

Don’t miss this extraordinary day of celebration and community spirit. Space is limited, so if you are a former Unified parent or player, please RSVP to Carol Jerauld at cjerauld@drregional.org.

We look forward to celebrating with you!

TWIN OAKS Farm Learning Center

Palmer River Hosts Penguin Visit from Mystic Aquarium

By Kristine Kefor, Principal, January 30, 2025

Excitement filled the halls of Palmer River Elementary School on January 7, 2025 as students from Pre-Kindergarten, Kindergarten, and First Grade were treated to an unforgettable hands-on experience with a penguin from the Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut. The special visit, made possible by the school’s dedicated PTSA, provided a unique opportunity for students to interact with an animal educator and penguin trainer, deepening their understanding of one of the world’s most fascinating creatures.

As part of the school’s ongoing commitment to providing enriching educational experiences, the PTSA generously funded the visit, allowing students to learn about penguins up close and personal. The event was met with enthusiasm, with young students wide-eyed and eager to ask questions and learn all about the penguin’s natural habitat, behavior, and unique adaptations for survival.

The presentation was led by a skilled animal educator and penguin trainer from the Mystic Aquarium, who guided the students through an informative and interactive session. The trainer provided fascinating insights into the life of penguins, explaining how these remarkable birds are perfectly suited to their cold, aquatic environment. Students were captivated as they learned how penguins use their specialized body features — such as their flippers and thick feathers — to thrive in their icy homes.

Last Year’s Unified Team

“I loved seeing the penguin up close,” said Emily, a first-grade student at Palmer River. “It was so cool to see how it moves and hear about how it stays warm in the snow!”

In addition to learning about penguin biology and behavior, students were also given the opportunity to ask their own questions. Curious minds wanted to know how penguins find food, whether they can fly, and what it takes to care for them in the aquarium setting. The animal educator patiently answered every question, engaging students in lively discussions that highlighted the importance of animal conservation and care.

For many students, the highlight of the event was the opportunity to get up close and personal with the penguin. Students were able to observe the penguin closely and marvel at its distinctive black and white feathers, sleek body, and playful demeanor.

“We are so grateful to the PTSA for making this visit possible,” said Mrs. Kristine Kefor, Principal. “It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our students to learn directly from experts at the Mystic Aquarium, and it’s wonderful to see them so engaged and excited about science and animals. It’s experiences like this that inspire a lifelong love of learning.”

The visit to Palmer River Elementary is part of Mystic Aquarium’s ongoing outreach efforts to bring educational programs to schools and inspire the next generation of scientists, conservationists, and animal lovers. The team from Mystic Aquarium also emphasized the importance of protecting wildlife and the environment, encouraging students to think about how they can make a positive impact on the world around them.

The school community was buzzing with excitement following the visit, and students left with not only a greater understanding of penguins but also with a renewed appreciation for the wonders of the natural world. Thanks to the generosity and dedication of the PTSA, Palmer River Elementary students will remember this special day for years to come.

Palmer River Elementary School is proud to be part of a community that values educational enrichment and the joy of discovery. The penguin visit is just one of many exciting programs planned for the year, as the school continues to offer its students a well-rounded education that sparks curiosity, fosters creativity, and instills a sense of wonder.

Above Photos: Penguin Visit

Sine Plumbing &

Bay View Middle School’s S.M.A.R.T. Team Qualifies for States

St. Mary Academy – Bay View’s Middle School Robotics team recently qualified for the state tournament after turning in a strong performance competing at the First Lego League Robotics qualifier at Portsmouth Middle School. The students presented their innovative project using AI, Whales and vessel strikes at the state finals on January 11 at East Providence High School.

58 Tri-County Seniors Awarded John & Abigail Adams Scholarship

Franklin, MA – Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School honored fifty-eight students from the graduating class of 2025 who have been awarded the prestigious John & Abigail Adams Scholarship. This honor not only celebrates these students’ outstanding academic achievements, but also provides them with incredible opportunities for their future education. Students fom Seekonk: Serena Avila, Cayden Bourassa, William Godfrey, Grace Gordon, Alexander Gries, Jack Pardi, Seth Varhol

The John & Abigail Adams Scholarship is awarded to Massachusetts public high school students who have demonstrated exceptional performance on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) tests. To qualify, students must score at the Advanced level in either the Mathematics or English Language Arts section, and at least Proficient in the other section. Additionally, their combined MCAS scores must place them in the top 25% of their school district.

Recipients of the John & Abigail Adams Scholarship are eligible for an undergraduate tuition waiver at any Massachusetts state college or university. This scholarship is valid

for up to eight consecutive semesters of undergraduate education at a Massachusetts public college or university provided students maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher during their college years.

Congratulations to the recipients from the Tri-County class of 2025! Your achievements inspire us all and we look forward to seeing the amazing contributions you will make in the years to come.

For more information about the John & Abigail Adams Scholarship and its benefits, please visit the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education website at (https://www.mass.gov/infodetails/john-and-abigail-adams-scholarship)

Front Row (L to R): Violet Grant (Rumford), Grace Beckerman (Providence) and Mishka Basu (Cumberland). Back Row (L to R): Sophia Donaldson (Warwick), Madeleine Hills (Rumford), Londyn Skomro (Seekonk, MA), Karolina (Sage) Penden Riverside RI and Coach/Robotic teacher Valerie Briden.

Social Security Fairness Act

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

In early 2025, Congress passed the Social Security Fairness Act. The new law has a significant impact on Massachusetts clients eligible for both a public pension and social security, including teachers, municipal employees and public safety officials. The law repealed the Windfall Elimination Provision and Government Pension Offset, which had significantly reduced benefits to these individuals. It is easiest to explain how social security works for the general population, as these rules will now be the same for everyone.

You are eligible for social security if you have worked 40 quarters (10 years) in the private sector. Everyone has a full retirement age, based on when you were born (age 67 for most). You can begin collecting social security as early as age 62. Each month you defer social security, the benefit increases, until age 70, when it stops increasing outside of COLA adjustments. There can be significant penalties if you begin collecting social security before your full retirement age if still working and earning over $23,400. When you begin collecting social security, you are generally eligible for the greater of 100% of your personal benefit or 50% of your spouse’s benefit (this applies to divorced spouses after 10 years of marriage as well). When you or your spouse pass away, the survivor receives the HIGHER of the benefits (not both). You can download your social security statement from ssa.gov.

Prior to the Social Security Fairness Act, if you were receiving a Massachusetts pension and social security, your social security income was reduced by as much as $600 per month. In addition, you were generally NOT eligible for 50% of your spouse’s social security benefit while s/he was alive, or your spouse’s social security at his/her death. All of these negatives are going away fortunately. For clients that have been receiving a reduced social security benefit, this change will be retroactive to 1/1/2024, so there should be a repayment of lost benefits. In other words, this law significantly impacts these clients and their planning opportunities.

One common question is, “When should I begin taking social security?” Of course, this depends on a number of factors. If you are still working, it generally makes sense to defer social security until age 70. Once you stop working, you will need to create retirement income. Social security is one of your options. One benefit of taking social security is that it takes “pressure” off of your retirement portfolio. For example, if your expenses are $6,000 per month and can get $3,000 per month from social security, you would only need to draw $3,000 per month from your portfolio. However, once you start taking social security, you lock into the lower benefit for the rest of your life. The longer you plan to live, the more advantageous it is to defer social security. There is typically a breakeven point between age 78 and 82, meaning if you live beyond this age, you will collect more over your lifetime by deferring until age 70. A common strategy is for one spouse to take social security right at retirement and then have the second spouse defer until age 70. Obviously, you need to look at your overall finances and cash flow needs.

There is a complicated formula to determine how much of your social security is taxed. It is often 85%. It is best to be doing tax planning each year, where you look at your overall income, cash flow needs, taxation and options to determine the best place to draw income from. For example, it might make sense to draw money from non-retirement savings or Roth IRAs early in retirement, so less of your social security is taxed.

As you can imagine, social security planning is quite complex and only one piece of your overall retirement plan. I am happy to offer a consultation to discuss your specific situation.

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

Lars Lambrecht

Steven S. Howitt

From the State houSe

Representative Steven S. Howitt and Colleagues Seeking Answers from Healey Administration Following Arrest at State-Funded Shelter

Illegal immigrant housed at Revere motel facing multiple gun, drug charges

Boston – State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R-Seekonk) is demanding answers from the Healey Administration following the recent arrest of an illegal immigrant from the Dominican Republic residing in the state’s emergency shelter system, who is facing multiple firearms and drug possession charges, including one count of possessing nearly five kilograms of fentanyl worth an estimated $1 million.

A letter signed by Representative Howitt and his colleagues in the House Republican Caucus was delivered to Governor Healey’s office, expressing the caucus members’ collective “deep concerns and outrage” that an undocumented immigrant was allegedly in possession of a high-capacity firearm, along with fentanyl and cocaine, and was allegedly selling these drugs in a Revere motel, which is being used as one of the state’s emergency shelters.

“There are long term residents of Massachusetts who have been on waiting lists for the emergency family shelter program, yet an individual here illegally, breaking our laws and putting our citizens at risk by running a drug ring with fentanyl and cocaine, somehow got priority over other deserving long term lawful Massachusetts residents,” the caucus wrote. “How does such an individual get priority on the waiting list over lawful longtime residents of the Commonwealth looking for one of a very limited number of shelter spots?”

In their letter to Governor Healey, the caucus questioned how this individual was able to circumvent the Administration’s stated eligibility requirements to qualify for the state-run shelter program, which the Administration has repeatedly told legislators are strictly limited to “residents and documented immigrants who have lawful permission to be in the United States and declare Massachusetts as their place of residency.” The caucus also questioned the effectiveness of the comprehensive background checks the Healey Administration says they conduct before allowing admission to the state’s emergency shelter system.

“How is it possible an undocumented immigrant here illegally is receiving a benefit of emergency family shelter even though our laws do not allow it?” the caucus wrote. “How is it this individual wasn’t flagged in a so-called comprehensive background check upon application for shelter? How is it despite the strict gun laws of the Commonwealth this individual was allegedly able to acquire a high-capacity firearm? How was a criminal enterprise being run out of a family shelter as he allegedly obtained fentanyl and cocaine that he was allegedly selling from the shelter’s motel room?”

The House Republican Caucus described the situation as “outrageous and totally unacceptable,” noting that it “poses a serious public safety threat for law-abiding Massachusetts residents and the communities hosting these migrant shelters.”

“Sadly, despite background checks, this is not an isolated incident, as there have been other reported instances of serious crimes committed by individuals residing in these shelters, including one case involving a 26-year-old Haitian national who was taken into custody by ICE as an unlawfully present migrant after being charged with the aggravated rape of a child in a migrant shelter in Rockland,” the caucus wrote.

In their letter, the caucus insisted that the state “must do a better job of providing close and continuous oversight of these facilities to ensure the safety of those residing in state-run shelters, as well as surrounding communities,” adding that “There are simply no excuses for tolerating this type of criminal behavior, especially when it occurs within a state-run program publicly funded by taxpayer dollars.”

“Our House Republican Caucus demands answers on how this was allowed to happen and what steps your Administration is taking to rectify this situation and to ensure the safety and protection of Massachusetts residents,” the caucus wrote to Governor Healey. “We request your immediate response to this failure to carry out the law, not only to the state legislature but to every deserving taxpayer of the Commonwealth who pays for this program. We look forward to your response on where the system failed, why the system failed, and what your Administration is doing to ensure that such a failure is not repeated.”

Rehoboth Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will be closed on Monday February 17th for Presidents’ Day

Breakfast

Mon / Wed / Fri From 8:30-10

Lunch Mon / Wed @ Noon. Come join us

Valentine’s Day Party

Wednesday February 12th @ Noon SOLD OUT

St Patrick’s Day Lunch

Monday March 17th @ Noon SOLD OUT

Piano Serenade

Russell Raiche will be playing the piano for us 10:00 - 11:30

Book Club

First Monday of Month at 10:00am

Join Our Walking Club

Mon-Wed-Friday 10:00AM

Please note new start time

Join our Email List Updates during the month COAmail@rehobothma.gov

Trivia!

Held on the First Monday of each Month

Craft Supplies Needed

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

Your donations are greatly appreciated

Meals on Wheels:

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

ACTIVITIES

Mondays

8:30-10 BREAKFAST

10:00 Walking Club

10:00 Bocce

10:00 Cornhole Toss

10:00 Barre Class $3.00

Noon Gert’s Café ~ Ltd seating ~ $5.00

1:00 Line Dancing $3.00

Tuesdays

9:00 Dancer-cise $3.00

10:00 Jewelry Making Class $5.00

10:00 S.E.A.T Chair Exercise $3.00

10:00 Sewing & Quilting

11:00 Functional Fitness $3.00

1:00 Hi-Lo Jack

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

Wednesdays

8:30 - 10:00 Breakfast

10:00 Walking Club

10:00 Fiber Arts (Knitting & Crochet get together. Jane Williams)

10:00 Bocce

10:00 Cornhole Toss

Noon Lunch Ltd seating ~ $5.00

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

1:00-3:00 Dominoes

Thursday

9:00 Tai Chi $3.00

10:00 Drums Alive $3.00

11:00 Functional Fitness $3.00

1:00-3:00 Paper Crafting Class includes Card Making, Stamping, etc. $5.00

1:00-3:00 Watercolor Class $5.00

Friday

8:30 - 10:00 Breakfast

10:00 Walking Club

10:00 Bocce

10:00 Cornhole Toss

As always all pricing is a suggested donation. Please sign up for Lunch ahead of time. This helps Chef Chico plan the meals

Rehoboth Public Health Nurse

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

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

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

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

• Wellness Clinic Wednesday 11:00-Noon

• Podiatry Clinic: Last Thursday of the month

• Blood Pressures & Glucose Screenings

Please contact Geri Hamel for more information on these services.

Rehoboth Senior Citizens Club News

On a cold, windy January 16th, 19 members of RSCC came for a get together that included the usual meeting, a delicious, heaping meat platter and rolls from Chartley Country Store, a sinful potluck dessert assortment, and a very enjoyable Regifting Auction.

Our meeting was short but productive, lunch was devoured, and the auction brought quite a few surprises and laughs.

Please join us for our next meeting on February 20th in the Arcade Building at the Francis Farm Complex, at noon. Another scrumptious meat platter from Chartley Country Store will be provided. Please bring a potluck dessert. We will be discussing two upcoming events and organizing them, plus any other business that may arise. A February themed Bingo will follow lunch. I hope to see you there. Donna Howard, President

Seekonk Human Services

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

Holiday Hours

Closed Monday, February 17, 2025

Hearing Clinic

Mon, Feb 10, 2025 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Chris Brissette from Hearing Life will be here for the Hearing Clinic from 1:00pm - 3:00pm. (Preregistration is required by calling our office.)

Valentine’s Day Party

Wed, Feb 12, 2025 at 11:30am

Carine Paul will be performing love songs for all to enjoy at our Valentine’s Day party. Lunch will be pasta and meatballs. The cost will be $7 for residents and $10 for nonresidents. Preregistration is required.

A Funny Program About Funny Programs:

The Greatest Sitcoms of All Time

Wed, Feb 19, 2025 at 1:00pm

Award-winning author and pop culture historian Martin Gitlin hosts this fun and enlightening presentation based on his book, The Greatest Sitcoms of All Time. He is the only author to actually rank the best, including I Love Lucy, The Honeymooners, The Andy Griffith Show, Get Smart, All in the Family, The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Cheers, The Golden Girls Seinfeld, Everybody Loves Raymond and The Big Bang Theory. He will show funny snippets from those shows and others, challenge patrons with sitcom trivia (including identifying cool theme songs!). Discuss the criteria he used to rank 70 years of sitcoms and talk about how they have evolved over the decades in humor, presentation and content. This program is really entertaining so join in on the fun! Preregistration is required.

Presentation by Nurse Lisa on Heart Health

Mon, Feb 24, 2025 at 2:00pm

February is American Heart Month, our Public Health Nurse, Lisa Valente, RN CDOE will be doing a presentation on Heart Health. This topic is vital to our well-being. Our heart is the engine that keeps our body running, and taking care of it is essential for a long, healthy life. The heart is a muscular organ that pumps blood throughout the body, supplying oxygen and nutrients while removing waste products. Maintaining heart health involves a combination of lifestyle choices, dietary habits, and regular medical checkups. Preregistration is required..

Healthy Aging Lunch & Learn

Wed, Feb 26, 2025 at 11:30am

Join us for nutritional trivia by Bristol Aging and Wellness Registered Dietitian, Dawn DiMarco. Chicken stir fry, Asian rice, oriental vegetables, snowflake rolls, cupcakes, and Crystal Light lunch will be served for those who attend. Preregistration is required.

Income Tax Appointment

Thursdays Thru April 10th

The AARP Foundation Tax Aide, will be at Human Services on Thursdays. They will start preparing taxes from February 6, - April 10, 2025. Please call our office to set up an appointment. Space is limited.

Arts & Crafts

1st & 3rd Friday 9:30am - 11:30am

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

• February 7, 2025 & February 21, 2025 Valentine’s Gnome & St. Patrick’s Gnome

• March 7, 2025 & March 21, 2025

Personalized Jewelry Making

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

Women’s Lunch

Wed, Feb 5, 2025 at 11:30am

Davenport’s Restaurant, 1925 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence, RI

This group meets the first Wednesday of the month at 11:30am. Everything is Dutch treat. If you are interested in joining for good food and good conversation, while supporting our local restaurants, (please call our office to sign up, preregistration is required.)

Blood Pressure & Glucose Clinic

Wed, Feb 19, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am

Join us for our free monthly blood pressure and glucose screenings. Walk-ins welcome! Provided by Seekonk’s Public Health Nurse.

Let’s Learn Together!

Tues, Feb 25, 2025 at 2:30pm

Do you have questions about using your smartphone, or tablet? Bring them to the Tech Help Hour. The goal of this session is to help each other learn how to use technology better. There is no set agenda.

This program is provided by Seekonk Public Library staff. Bring your own tablet, phone or laptop. Please make sure your device is fully charged. Preregistration is required.

St. Patrick’s Day Karaoke Party

Wed, March 12, 2025 at 11:30am

Barney Mallon

Barney Mallon AKA Seekonk’s Karaoke King will be here to sing and have sing-a-long with all who will attend our St. Patrick’s Day party. He will be singing Irish songs that you know and some you may not know. When he performs for St. Patrick’s Day party, he usually sings some songs for St. Joseph’s Day too. So, join us for some great fun and a delicious lunch! Lunch will be served corned beef and cabbage. The cost will be $10 for residents and $13 for non-residents. Preregistration is required and opens February 17th.

Venice, Italy: A History and Photographic Tour By Matt Davis

Wed, March 19, 2025 at 1:00pm

Matt Davis will be here illustrating Venice, Italy with dozens of original photos, have you learn how this amazing city was first created, what daily life is like, why it’s one of the world’s most beloved travel destinations, and what challenges the city faces today. Preregistration is required and opens February 17th.

Healthy Aging Lunch & Learn

Wed, March 26, 2025 at 11:30am

Join us for Nutrition Jeopardy by Bristol Aging and Wellness Registered Dietitian, Dawn DiMarco. Spaghetti and meatballs, Italian vegetables, dinner rolls and brownies lunch will be served for those who attend. Preregistration is required and opens February 17th.

Tuesday Luncheon Weekly at 12:00pm

Seekonk Human Services has partnered with The Hamilton Diner to offer weekly lunches! Lunches will cost $7 for residents and $8 for nonresidents. The menu will be available at the office and on Facebook. On the last Tuesday of each month, we will be celebrating Seekonk Senior’s birthday. On your birth month you will only pay $2.00 for that lunch (Seekonk residents only).

Nutritional Meals to Go

Tues / Wed / Thurs

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

Fuel Assistance

Income guidelines: Maximum income for one person is $49,196, for two people is $64,333, for three people is $79,470 and for four people is $94,608. Returning applicants must provide proof of income (pension, interest, dividends, 401K/IRA distribution). New applications must provide income, mortgage or rent bill, real estate taxes, homeowners insurance, utility bills (electric, gas and/or oil), social security card, government photo ID, and birth certificates for those under the age of 18.

Fuel assistance begins November 1st. For assistance, please call our office to schedule an appointment with our outreach worker. Applications are accepted until April 30, 2025.

Telephone Reassurance Program

Our office will make a telephone call to an individual’s home at approximately the same time each day Monday through Friday (during our operating business hours only). This program is designed to connect people in need with ongoing, caring human contact and conversation. If we do not receive an answer, we will call back shortly after. If we do not receive an answer the second time, Public Safety will be called to check on the individual’s status. The Telephone Reassurance Program provides a peace of mind for the individual and their loved ones. This program is designed for senior citizens, disabled persons and shut-ins living in Seekonk who may be at risk of loneliness, social isolation, illness or injury. If you, or you know someone you know is interested in this program, please call Nicole at Human Services at 508-336-8772.

Medical Loan Closet

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

Email List

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

Exercise Classes

Mondays

Movement & Meditation 10am

Strength & Cardio 1pm

Tuesdays

Drums Alive 9am

Wednesdays

Stability and Balance 8:45am

Drums Alive 9:30am

Thursdays

Mat Exercise 9am

Movement & Meditation 10am

Fridays

Dance Cardio 9:15am

Tai Chi 10:30am

*All activities are subject to pre-registration

Card Games

Play an old favorite or learn something new!

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

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

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

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

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

Encore Casino

Boston Harbor

Wednesday, April 30, 2025

Price: $42.00 Per Person

Depart 8:30am Return Approx. 5:30pm 540 Arcade Avenue, Seekonk, MA

The casino at Encore Boston Harbor brings glamour on a grand scale to the riverfront. Enter the main floor– open and airy, colorful and vibrant Try your luck with 2,800+ slot machines, including classic favorites, automated tables and the newest game titles. Enjoy 166 table games, all at state-of-the-art tables with superior service. It all adds up to an exciting, memorable five-star experience unlike anywhere else in Boston. Trip includes: deluxe motorcoach transportation, gratuity, casino time: 10am4pm. Casino Pkg. $20 free slot play. (Casino package subject to change) Payment due at registration.

Come and enjoy the activities and companionship at your center. Join our email list! Things are changing quickly these days and we want to be able to get the word out to you quickly. Please give us a call and give us your email address. We want to share fun activities, links to Zoom and virtual programs.

Rehoboth

In RemembeRance

Death Notices

• David Betts was born on December 1, 1944, in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, and he left us on December 12, 2024.

• Ron Tremper died peacefully on December 22, 2024 at HopeHealth Hospice Center in Providence.

• Melissa G. Johnson, 57, of Rehoboth, died at home on December 24, 2024.

Seekonk

• Mary Ann O’Neil Souza, 83, of Seekonk, passed away peacefully on January 16, 2025, with her family by her side.

• Peter Taraian, 94, of Seekonk, MA, formerly of Barrington, RI passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on January 21st. ~Military Veteran

Andrew J. Correia, MBIE; President/Funeral Director & Embalmer

James L. Braga

James L. Braga, 83 of Seekonk, MA passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 26, 2025. He was the beloved husband of Lynette (Raymond) Braga; together for 36 years.

Born in New Bedford, MA he was a son of the late Louis Joseph Braga, and Mary (DeMello) Braga. Jim grew up in South Dartmouth, MA. He was a terminal manager in the transportation industry for 53 years until he retired. Never one to sit still for long, he went to work as a porter at various dealerships for 10 years. His passion was planes, trains and automobiles, but mostly cars from a very young age, and he truly enjoyed restoring them and hearing that first roar of a newly rebuilt engine.

Jim was a loving husband, father, hero, grandfather, and great-grandfather who adored his family. He will be dearly missed. 1-8-4-3-6-5-7-2

Besides his loving wife, he leaves two children, Jarna Platt, and her husband Timothy of Florida, Jessica Braga, and her husband Daniel Heineck of Alaska, two grandchildren, Amber Miller, Evan Platt, one great-grandson, Patrick Miller, and one sister, Gail Alexander. He was the brother of the late, Sandra Sylvia.

At the family’s request, the burial service will be private. For online condolences please visit, www.PERRYMCSTAY.com.

Wherever a beautiful soul has been there is a trail of beautiful memories. ~ Ronald Reagan

James L. Braga

Come In Person to Submit Names to E.P. Military Service Honor Roll and Purchase Notecards

Visit the Rock E P Senior Center, 610 Waterman Ave., on Wed., Feb. 19, between 10:30 am -12:30 pm. to submit names to (and to view names on a paper print out of) the virtual EP Military Service Honor Roll. Please include new names of former and present E. P. residents and corrections, of any or all details: in memory of (dead), in honor of (alive, retired, or active service), last name, rank, first name, middle name or initial, service area, country/war, branch (includes National Guard Reserves), awards/medals, etc. If you wish to include a military photo, bring it so it can be photographed on site and returned to you. Otherwise, names can be submitted year round to epvme @ hotmail.com.

This Military Service Honor Roll includes the names of the 2125 EP High School students who served in WWII. Help is needed to read cursive to properly spell some names. Please inquire how you can volunteer to assist with this.

The next Honor Roll update will be posted in March on the website, sites.google. com/view/epvmer2021 . This is a collection of the history of the E P Veterans Memorial Expressway (EPVME) and includes recent photos of I-195 and the demolition of the westbound Washington Bridge.

Come to view and purchase a set of 20 note cards with photos of each EPVME memorial bridge plaque, Pierce Memorial Stadium gates, and the Andrews Brothers’ exit and dedication wreath. Suggested donations are $15 a set or 75 cents for a single card and envelope. Proceeds will be used to purchase informative biographical signage to be placed near the war memorials. Donations of silk or plastic flowers and red ribbon or bows to decorate the 28 plaques can also be dropped off at this time.

Biographical info on the veterans’ note cards was taken from the reference book “Veterans With Individual War Memorials in E. Prov., RI”. This book is available for public viewing in the EP Senior Center’s library and at both branches of the E. Prov. library.

The portion of Interstate195 from the Washington Bridge east to the state line was named in 1961 the “E. Prov. Veterans Memorial Expressway” (EPVME) to remember and honor our veterans. To learn who they are, as a dead (in memory of) or live (in honor of) veteran, retired, or if currently serving, this virtual list of names has been compiled since 2019.

Also collecting stories of personal memories, prior to 1957, of what East Providence was like before the EPVME and East Shore Expressway (ESE) were constructed. Where are the houses now that were moved to build these expressways?

Jason K. Landry

Daniel A. Laneres Sandra M. Reis Michael S. Sladen of Rehoboth Fala Português

Love is in the Air

7 Valentine’s Day Date Ideas to Break from the Norm

(Family Features) If you’re feeling pressure to plan the perfect Valentine’s Day date, it may be time to veer away from tradition. While flowers, chocolates and dinner for two is a classic, thinking outside the box can make for just as romantic of an experience. Consider these simple date ideas to reduce stress and make your day extra special.

Take a Dance Class

Learning something new together can be a great way to bond with your significant other. Research dance studios in your area and book a lesson for a night out. Many studios offer new or first-time discounts and typically have a variety of lessons available from ballroom to salsa, cha cha and more. If dancing isn’t really your thing, consider another skill-building class you can do together like pottery, cooking or painting, for example.

Recreate Your First Date

Take a trip down memory lane and go back to the beginning of your relationship by recreating your first – or a favorite – date. Whether you went bowling, mini golfing, to dinner and a movie or something else entirely, reliving the past can be a special way to connect and show your partner how much you care.

Plan an Indoor Picnic

If it’s too cold outside for an actual picnic, clear some space in your living room and throw down a blanket. Pack a basket of finger foods like sandwiches, cheese and crackers, fruit, a bottle of wine and dessert for a romantic meal for two in the comfort of home.

Book a Staycation

A getaway doesn’t have to mean going far from home. Become tourists in town by booking a night at a nearby hotel and visiting some local landmarks you’ve been wanting to check out or haven’t experienced in a while. A simple break from routine can make for an enjoyable escape, even if you’re only a few miles from home.

Schedule a Photoshoot

If the last time you had your photo professionally taken was on your wedding day or a family vacation, hire a photographer for a couples photo session, and use it as an opportunity to create fun memories together. Many photographers offer mini sessions, which only take 15-30 minutes, leaving time for a night out afterward. For an inexpensive option, have a friend take a few casual pictures or use a selfie stick to help document your date.

Cook Dinner Together

Restaurants are often booked up on Valentine’s Day, so try something different this year and make a special home-cooked meal together. Whether you make a tried-and-true favorite or whip up something new, like a heart-shaped dish, you’ll bond over the experience while creating a tangible (and hopefully tasty) reward once the oven timer dings. Then dim the lights, play some soft music and light some candles to create a romantic ambience while enjoying dinner together.

Go On a Road Trip

Take a day – or a weekend – and venture to a destination you haven’t been before on a romantic Valentine’s Day getaway. Even if traveling far away isn’t possible right now, exploring a town or two over allows you to check out new restaurants, stores or other attractions and get out of your comfort zones.

Find more ideas Valentine’s Day at eLivingtoday.com.

Celebrate with your loved one in style with an assist from our advertisers!

5 Timeless Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas

(Family Features) On a day that signifies the importance of love and companionship, many people find it rewarding to show their loved ones just how much they mean. If you’re in the gift-giving spirit this Valentine’s Day, you may find a bit of inspiration with these ideas.

Just remember, whether you’re celebrating the relationship with your significant other or showing appreciation for a friend, the best gifts come from the heart.

* Food - If your partner is a foodie, a Valentine’s Day date is an obvious choice. Make a reservation at his or her favorite restaurant or opt for takeout and enjoy quiet time together in the comfort of home. Satisfy that special someone’s sweet tooth with a classic box of chocolates or create a personalized candy basket full of guilty pleasures.

* Jewelry - Whether you’ve been together a year, a decade or more, it’s a perfect opportunity to splurge for a gift he or she will cherish for a lifetime. Necklaces, bracelets, earrings, anklets, watches and more all make for perfect gifts that can often be customized with engravings like names or important dates.

* Experiences - Oftentimes, the gift of moments together means more than a trinket. Consider the things you enjoy doing side by side and schedule a day or weekend to do nothing but your favorite activities. Book a tour at a local museum, find tickets to the next big game, sit frontstage for a favorite band or road trip to a nearby attraction for new sights and sounds.

* Subscriptions - Gifts don’t always need to be sentimental. Sometimes, they can be downright practical. Creating an account for a new streaming service or music platform, signing up for monthly food or wine gift boxes and buying ticket packages for a favorite local team are all gifts that keep on giving.

* Handwritten Notes and Flowers - Take time to write what you appreciate most about your special someone - personality traits, favorite memories, thoughtful gestures and why they’re important to you - and pair your note with favorite flowers. Gifts may spark a smile, but sharing a moment of connection offers a reminder of what you’re celebrating in the first place.

Find more Valentine’s Day gift ideas by visiting eLivingtoday.com.

From trendy new designs to irresistable classics, we can help you find the perfect engagement ring. We have hundreds of models in stock to choose from. We can also custom design a ring to your specifications.

Select your own natural (GIA) or lab-grown (IGI) diamond from our wide selection of loose stones or have us set your stones into a stunning new mounting. Find the perfect band to match your style and your ring.

Food & Dining Guide

• 1 beef tenderloin (4 pounds), wrapped with butcher’s twine

• 9 tablespoons olive oil, divided

• 4 teaspoons pepper, divided

• 5 shallots, quartered

• 2 teaspoons salt, divided

• 3 tablespoons lemon juice

• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

• 1 head cauliflower

• 1 package (5 1/2 ounces) baby spinach

• dried cranberries, for garnish

Directions:

• Heat oven to 475 F. Place beef on baking sheet. Rub 4 tablespoons olive oil and 2 teaspoons pepper into beef. Bake 12 minutes.

• In large bowl, toss cauliflower, shallots, 1 teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon pepper to combine. Scatter vegetables around beef and bake 18-25 minutes, or until desired doneness is reached. Allow meat to rest 15 minutes covered in aluminum foil.

• In medium bowl, whisk 3 tablespoons olive oil, lemon juice, mustard and remaining salt and pepper until combined. Add spinach; stir until combined.

• Serve by layering spinach topped with cauliflower and shallots then sliced tenderloin. Garnish with dried cranberries.

• 2 chicken breasts

• 2/3 cup flour

• 2 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning

• 1/2 stick butter

*

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 3/4 cup champagne or sparkling wine

• mushroom soup

• rice, for serving

Directions:

• Butterfly chicken breasts, making four thinner pieces.

• In shallow dish, mix flour and lemon pepper seasoning. Coat chicken in flour mixture.

• Melt butter over medium heat and add chicken broth. Pan fry coated chicken breasts then remove from pan and set aside.

• Use champagne to deglaze frying pan and add mushroom sauce to heated champagne. Place chicken breasts back in pan in mushroom sauce and cook over medium heat about 5 minutes. Serve over rice.

Substitutions: Chicken broth can be used in place of champagne.

Beef Tenderloin

Health & Wellness 2025

Tips to Be Prepared for Cooler Weather

(Family Features) Although cold weather isn’t directly to blame when you get sick, it creates an environment that makes it easier for germs and illnesses to thrive. In fact, understanding how cooler temperatures affect your chances of getting sick may be your best approach for preventive care.

Despite the old adage that “you’ll catch your death of cold,” the cold itself doesn’t cause illness. More accurately, the cold is more hospitable to viruses, making it easier for them to spread. While you can’t control Mother Nature, you can take steps to protect your health when temperatures drop.

Protect Your Immune System

A weakened immune system makes it harder for your body to ward off intrusive germs. If you’re otherwise healthy, protecting your immune system can be as simple as stepping up typical healthy habits, like eating plenty of nutrient-rich produce, getting enough sleep and exercising. Managing stress and limiting alcohol consumption are also helpful in managing your body’s immune response.

If your immune system is compromised by an underlying condition, it’s a good idea to talk with your doctor about what you can do to add an extra layer of protection during the cooler months, including any vaccines that may help boost immunity.

Combat Congestion

Cool, dry conditions can wreak havoc on your nasal passages, drying them out and reducing the protective layer of mucus that helps fight infection. Sinus pressure and congestion are often some of the first warning signs you’re coming down with something.

To treat your congestion symptoms, you can use a non-medicated option like Mucinex Sinus Saline Nasal Spray. This is the first-ever saline product with a nozzle that lets you switch between two spray pressures. The “gentle mist” helps clear everyday congestion and soothes the nose while the “power jet” helps clear tough nasal congestion often associated with colds. An added benefit is that the product can be used for children 2 years of age and older on the gentle mist setting and children 6 years of age and older on the power jet mode.

Spend Time Outdoors

People naturally spend more time indoors when temperatures drop, but there are some benefits to getting outdoors. One is the natural exposure to vitamin D. Sunlight is a natural source of this important vitamin, which plays a pivotal role in immunity. Sunlight also triggers the body to produce serotonin, which boosts your mood, and multiple studies show a strong correlation between mental and physical health.

Fresh air and exercise are also good for your overall health, and exposure to daylight can help keep your circadian rhythms regulated, which in turn promotes better sleep. What’s more, acute exposure to cold can trigger your body to produce infectionfighting cells, so you’re less prone to illness.

Practice Good Hygiene

It may seem overly simple, but the everyday act of washing your hands can play a big role in preventing illness, especially after you spend time in public places. While out and about, you likely come in contact with many surfaces others may have touched, including door handles, shopping carts, touch screens and menus.

Washing your hands frequently can help prevent you from transferring germs to your body when you touch your eyes, mouth or nose. Also make a habit of wiping down surfaces you touch frequently, such as your keyboard and phone, with disinfectant wipes.

Stay Hydrated

Keeping your body well-hydrated throughout the day can help ensure all your body’s systems are functioning as they should. If you’re dehydrated, your body can’t use the nutrients you consume properly,

which affects your immunity. In addition, drinking plenty of water helps flush toxins out of the body before they can cause an infection.

Find more practical tips and products to help manage your health during the colder months at Mucinex.com.

How to Relieve Nasal Congestion

Normally your sinuses are empty except for a thin layer of mucus. When you’re exposed to irritating triggers, like bacteria, a cold or flu virus, allergies or environmental triggers like tobacco smoke and dry air, your body responds by mounting an immune response. The delicate tissues lining your sinuses start to swell, and this, in turn, puts pressure on the underlying tissues in your face, causing painful sinus pressure.

You can relieve sinus pressure symptoms in several different ways, including:

• Using a humidifier or vaporizer.

• Taking a long, hot shower; it may have the same effect as using a humidifier if one is not available.

• Drinking plenty of fluids.

• Using a warm compress on your face; resting a warm towel over your sinuses may provide relief.

• Irrigating your sinuses. Using a neti pot; saline nasal spray, such as Mucinex Sinus Saline Nasal Spray; or syringe with salt water may help flush debris from your sinuses to relieve sinus congestion.

• Sleeping with your head elevated.

If these steps don’t work, the next approach is typically over-thecounter medicine. When trying to relieve sinus pressure and nasal congestion, look for a decongestant. A decongestant can help shrink mucus membranes that have swollen in your sinuses, allowing the trapped mucus to drain.

Exceptional Care. Exceptional Moments.

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

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

At Sturdy Health, we offer:

• Spacious birthing suites with private bathrooms and showers

• Neonatal services

• Skin-to-Skin newborn care

• Delayed cord clamping

• Wireless fetal monitoring for freedom of movement

• Nitrous oxide for use during labor or special procedures

• Breastfeeding support by Nationally Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLC)

• Breast milk bank access on-site for immediate bridge or long-term feeding

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

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

To schedule your private tour, please dial (508) 236-7250 www.SturdyHealth.org/LaborandDelivery

Your dream DESTINATION WEDDING awaits on Tybee Island, GA

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

Accommodates wedding receptions up to 140

208 onsite guest rooms

Breathtaking, panoramic views of the beach and Atlantic Ocean

Fly direct from Boston to Savannah

The only thing we overlook is the ocean.

HELP WANTED

Seasonal Help Wanted: Full and part time seasonal sales positions available at Little Tree Nursery; plant knowledge preferred, weekends a MUST, self-motivated, enjoy customer service, telephone inquiries, plant maintenance and care. Send resume or qualifications to LTN1997@aol.com

WANTED

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

WANTED: Cash paid for your Militaria items. Uniforms, Field Gear, Swords, Knives, Muskets etc. Looking for Revolutionary War, Civil War, WWI, WWII and Vietnam items. Text or call and/or send photos. 508-574-4392.

HOME & GARDEN

Plants for Sale: House plants, annuals, perennials, succulents, good variety from $1- $10. Free plant with visit. Call 401-433-2922.

SERVICES

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

I am a Personal Care Assistant & Housekeeper willing to help you! I can help you with meal prep, medication reminders, shower assistance, shopping/errands, laundry, light cleaning. Call Terri for information and rates. 774-284-7600.

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

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

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