June 2026 Seekonk Reporter

Summer Car Care Packages

Letters to the Editor...

On the Cover:

Seekonk: Youth Services Librarians at Seekonk Library invite children, teens and adults to sign up for the 2026 Summer Reading Challenge. Details at seekonkpl.org

Rehoboth: Photo by Earle Dias Photography

Baby Snapper

The baby snapper Lunged at me. Then retreated, As my admiration Grew. The tiny creature Had much courage. And much Wisdom too.

Don Gardner

The letters in this section and opinion articles do not reflect the views of the staff of The 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!

Response to RBOS vs D-R School Litigation

RE: Dr. Azar responds to the Settlement Agreement between the D-R School District and the Rehoboth Board of Selectmen

The recent articles regarding the litigation between the Town of Rehoboth and the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District leave important context out of the discussion. If new leadership was truly the catalyst for resolving this matter, then it should not have taken four years, exerting thousands more dollars, to resolve.

Equally important, the courts found no fault on the part of the school district, yet the town/district spent approximately a quarter of a million dollars of taxpayer money litigating the matter to provoke negativity with the word ‘lawsuit’.

As I stated publicly at the time, this litigation was an attempt by selectmen to exert control over the school district. This litigation was filed following the 2019 vote. That 2019 vote did leave Rehoboth’s municipality and the school district on stable financial footing unlike many area communities.

Going forward, it would be advantageous for public officials and administration to not expend further time, efforts or taxpayer dollars on comments about this “frivolous lawsuit”. Rehoboth public officials focus should be on the citizens of our town and the DR administration’s focus on students.

Dr. Anthony C. Azar, Retired Superintendent of Schools 2014-2022

Laura Schwall

Rehoboth Town News

From the Clerk's Office

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

June 2nd (Tuesday) Annual Town Meeting

As you know, Annual Town Meeting was held on June 2, 2026 at the Francis Farm Heritage Meeting Hall. Due to the printing of the Rehoboth Reporter, I will give you an update of the meeting in my July article. Thank you all who attended and thank you everyone involved with running our town meetings.

Census Forms & Street Listings

A huge thank you to the 5,592 households who returned their January 2026 Census forms. To date we have 430 households who did not return their census forms. Unfortunately, as per State law, all city and town clerk offices must “inactivate” all voters who did not return their 2026 census form by the first Monday in June and send them a confirmation mailing notice. If you are one of those voters, please update the confirmation card with your current address, sign the card and send the postage paid postcard back to our office. We have really tried to help update your census record by mailing the census mailer with the town calendar the first week of January, reminder notices in February, Registrars called your homes in March and a second reminder sent in April. Please update your census status and reactivate your voting status by returning the confirmation cards, which you will be receiving mid-June. Thank you.

The new Annual Street Listings have arrived. If you would like to purchase a 2026 Annual Street Listing for $15.00, please stop by. If you would like a free 2025 Street Listing, please also stop by. The FREE 2025 Street Listings are available while supplies last ~ thank you!

Dog Licenses Were Due April 1, 2026

The Grace Period Ended – Citations Being Issued Soon

All dog licenses were due and payable by April 1st. After a grace period and several reminders, delinquent dog owners were assessed a $15.00 late fee, per dog, for any licenses that have not been renewed. To date we still have 475 dogs that remain unlicensed. The Animal Control Officer is calling all delinquent dog owners after our office has sent several reminder notices. We are truly sorry for the added expense; however, it is required by Massachusetts General Law, and our Town Bylaws, and it is unfair to those who registered within the prescribed timeframe if we don’t assess the required late fee. Please renew your dog licenses as soon as you are able ~ thank you. To date we have registered 1,838 dogs. Remember, in addition to being a legal requirement, registering your dog assures the prevention of rabies in our community, and provides easy identification to reunite lost dogs with their owners because they are now in our database.

Reminder to those residents 70 years of age or older . . . if over 70 years old, as per MGL 140§139(c) and town meeting vote, the Clerk’s Office will waive the $10/$20 license fee; however, you must still apply for the license and show the current year rabies certificate.

Congratulations All 2026 Graduates

I want to extend my congratulations to all 2026 Graduates for achieving your important milestone. I wish you all the best with your future endeavors! Much happiness to all the graduates and their families!

Anyone having questions regarding any of the above information listed in my article may call the Town Clerk’s Office at 508-252-1027, X3109, X3112 or X3110 or e-mail me at LSchwall@RehobothMA.gov. Finally, during the month of June, Jenn and I wish all the Fathers a Happy Father’s Day. Please remember to fly your American Flag on June 14th in honor of Flag Day, enjoy the Juneteenth holiday, and as Summer begins on June 20th, we also wish you all a happy, healthy, safe, and memorable Summer!

Thank you again for your continued support. Please stay healthy and safe! I look forward to talking with you in July ~ Laura ~

Nurse’s Notes June 2026

Welcome Spring! As I write in mid-May, we are still waiting for warmer weather, but at least the sun is out and my seeds and in their little garden plugs!

This reminds me to urge caution as you get outside to your garden or other outdoor activities, particularly in grassy or woodland areas. I’m sure you all know my spiel now: wear light colored clothing, long pants and sleeves with pants tucked into your socks. Also, shower and do a body check as soon as possible upon going back indoors. Remember to keep water collections in outdoor containers emptied as we head into mosquito season. For further protection from mosquito bites, avoid outdoor activities during dawn and dusk, but if you are out during those hours, fishing, at the ball fields or enjoying the long evenings, please use an approved bug repellant and follow the directions on the container. As we come to the end of the school years keep in mind that the little ones will be out and about playing in your neighborhoods. Watch out for the little ones on their bicycles, especially the little children still learning to ride their bike. Parents and caregivers, please be sure children have their helmets on and consider long pants in case they fall. Walkers, runners and drivers, if the children are riding on pathways or on the road, please give them a wide berth. Their little legs are working hard and they may wobble a little. Please be sure young children are accompanied by an adult if they are out on pathways or the roadway. I strongly advise to avoid riding on the main roads, but if you need to ride a short stretch to get to where you are going, be sure you have high visibility clothing on the children and keep them in your sites.

We are all getting ready for the FIFA men’s World Cup! I taped a short health and safety program that will air on the local cable

channel 98 in late May, with some helpful information, but you can also access all the information that the Ma. DPH has been working on for the past year at:

https://www.mass.gov/protecting-public-health-during-theworld-cup

As I write, we are still reading about the Hanta virus outbreak on a cruise ship. Those affected are returning to the US and all are being assessed and isolated as appropriate. The risk to the general populations is very low. For more information please see the town web page, or access the following link:

https://www.mass.gov/info-details/hantavirus

I can’t believe we have to start thinking about fall health and safety now, but I am working in conjunction with CVS to plan fall vaccination clinics. We will be offering COVID, ‘flu and RSV vaccines and the sign up site will open in August, so keep an eye out here for more information!

We continue to offer:

• Screening clinic: Mondays/COA/11:45am-1:15pm

• Bereavement support group: 1st, 3rd Wednesday of month

• The Healthy Living Program is recorded on the 2nd Wednesday of the month and June’s presentation will have an update on further FIFA information, and also on arbovirus information and spring safety

I am also available to new parents who have any concerns about postpartum anxiety and depression. I am newly certified through the Postpartum Support International and am available through the below contact methods

Home visits continue Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons, by appointment for wellness checks

The next Podiatry clinic will be July 9th, 9am-12:30pm

Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Committee and Rehoboth Board of Selectmen Reach Agreement, Marking a New Chapter of Collaboration

Rehoboth, MA — The Rehoboth Board of Selectmen and the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Committee are pleased to announce that they have reached a mutually agreed-upon resolution to the legal matter between the Town of Rehoboth and the DightonRehoboth Regional School District.

This agreement represents a meaningful step forward and reflects a renewed commitment to collaboration, communication, and shared responsibility in support of both communities.

“As a result of the Rehoboth Board of Selectmen suing the DR District for breach of contract issues, an extensive financial analysis was conducted pursuant to the capital expenditure. This started as a very contentious and adversarial project under the previous school superintendent and School Committee. With the appointment of a new Superintendent and the support of the current School Committee, this shifted gears to become a joint project that can and will benefit both the town and the District. The town and the District have agreed upon this resolution which will be mutually beneficial to both parties.” – Skip Vadnais, Chair, Rehoboth Board of Selectmen”

Over the course of this process, both parties remained focused on finding a path

that prioritizes students, respects taxpayers, and strengthens the long-term partnership that defines the regional school district. This resolution allows both the Town and the District to move ahead with clarity, alignment, and a shared sense of purpose.

As part of this agreement:

• The Town of Rehoboth will withdraw its claims

• Both parties have worked collaboratively to bring closure to the matter

• The District will continue to review and evaluate matters related to vendor performance and project outcomes, as appropriate

This resolution enables both communities to shift their full attention toward the work that matters most: supporting students, strengthening schools, and building on the positive momentum forged in recent years with the current administration.

“On September 13, 2021, the Town of Rehoboth, through its elected officials, filed suit against its own regional school district claiming a breach of contract. While most of these claims were dismissed by a judge, a few remained unsettled. Always keeping in mind our students’ education and not wanting to waste more taxpayer funds on a frivolous lawsuit that had become costly and unproductive, the District approached the Town to resolve these remaining claims through mediation. Initially, the Town and the District did not align on an appropriate course of action. However, with the support of Superintendent Runey and the School Committee, we paved a path to settlement. This agreement allows us to close this chapter and continue moving forward in a way that supports both our communities as well as our regional school district and advances our DRiving Toward 2030 Strategic Plan.” – Christopher Andrade, School Committee Chair, Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Committee

This agreement not only brings closure to the matter but also reflects the progress made through sustained collaboration and a shared commitment to moving forward together.

“I am so grateful to everyone who brought this to a successful conclusion! This agreement represents more than a resolution; it reflects meaningful progress in how we work together and a result that positions both communities to move forward with confidence. We’ve strengthened communication, rebuilt relationships, and are returning our focus to where it belongs: on empowering educators who shape the futures of our students and our district.”

— Bill Runey, Superintendent, Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District

Both the School Committee and the Board of Selectmen reaffirm their commitment to:

• Strengthening collaboration between the district and the Town of Rehoboth

• Ensuring responsible and transparent stewardship of public resources

• Continuing to build trust through consistent and open communication

“This agreement reflects how we should be working as a regional system—with clear communication, shared responsibility, and a commitment to doing what’s right for both communities.” – Aaron Morse, Vice Chair, Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Committee

The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District remains focused on empowering staff, igniting student curiosity and learning, and shaping the future—continuing to move forward together through the DRiving Toward 2030 strategic plan.

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Last Call for All Vietnam War Era & Global War on Terror Veterans

The Rehoboth Veterans Services Office is making a final effort to ensure all eligible veterans are recognized on two proposed bronze plaques honoring those who served during the Vietnam War Era and the Global War on Terror.

The plaques are intended to recognize veterans who served from February 1961 through the present day and are current residents of Rehoboth. Veterans who served while living in another community but now reside in Rehoboth may also be eligible for inclusion.

If you served in the military—Active Duty, Reserve, or National Guard—and received military pay, you may qualify to have your name included.

Funds raised through a community fundraising effort have already been secured for the removal of the existing brick stoop and construction of a brick memorial wall that would house the new plaques.

Currently, four bronze plaques honoring veterans of the Civil War, World War I, World War II, and the Korean War are located at Palmer River School. The addition of these new plaques would complete a memorial project that began decades ago, with a dedication ceremony anticipated on Veterans Day, November 11, 2026.

Veterans are encouraged to review the roster on the Rehoboth Veterans Services webpage to confirm their names are included. If your name is missing, please contact the Veterans Office as soon as possible.

For more information, visit: www.rehobothma.gov/directorveteran-services

Or email: veterans@rehobothma.gov

Rehoboth Land Trust News

Last Call for RLT’s Photo Contest!

Ends June 30th

Do you have a passion for capturing the beauty of plants, animals, and stunning landscapes? The Rehoboth Land Trust invites photographers of all levels – whether you’re a hobbyist or a seasoned pro – to participate in our second annual photo contest!

This is your chance to have your work featured on the puzzle design for RLT’s annual Puzzle-A-Thon fundraiser in September. Our panel of guest judges will select the most captivating images to be showcased, helping raise funds for a cause you care about –protecting the wildlife and natural landscapes of Rehoboth!

Contest Details:

Theme: photos must feature plants, animals, or natural landscapes in Rehoboth. Images with humans or human-made structures are ineligible.

Eligibility: Open to all ages and skill levels. Photos can be taken anywhere in Rehoboth, but we’d love to see pics from RLT properties!

Photo Requirements: High-resolution digital images only. How to Enter:

• Email up to five submissions to info@rehobothlandtrust.net with the subject “RLT Photo Contest” before June 30, 2026. Include the following details:

• Your name, and the name of the photographer (if different)

• Your phone number

• Location in Rehoboth where the photo was taken

• Date (or year) of the photo

• Description of the photo’s subject

• Age of photographer (optional)

• 1-3 sentences about what the photo means to you By entering, you give the Rehoboth Land Trust permission to use the submitted photo in our 2026 puzzle design – credit will always be given. Big thanks to our local judges: wildlife photographers Dennis Goulet and Steven Brasier, Jen Joubert of Jennifer Joubert Photography, and D-R High School’s photography teacher Elizabeth Tache. Show us your best shot and help us celebrate the natural beauty of Rehoboth!

Capron Park Zoomobile in Rehoboth

June 14, 2026 @11:30 AM | Goff Hall

Get ready for summer by getting up close and personal with some cool critters! The Capron Park Zoo will showcase all sorts of live creatures, including lizards, snakes, and turtles, plus small mammals like an adorable tenrec. Don’t know what a tenrec is? Stop by and find out! If the animals are up to it, you might even be able to pet some of them! Find out about the wildlife conservation programs at Capron Park Zoo, plus ways you can help protect Rehoboth wildlife.

This event is part of RLT’s 2026 Nature’s Voices Speaker Series, and is free and open to the public. This 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!

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.

A Rehoboth Flag Contest

A year ago, the Director of Veteran Services office was asked about getting a Rehoboth flag for the Bristol County Agricultural High School since they had a flag from every town except for Rehoboth. At that time, only two flags existed. One flag was at the statehouse in Boston, and the other flag was kept in the vault at town hall.

Since the Veterans office oversees the maintenance and replacement of the American flags around town at the public buildings, all of the Veteran American flags in the cemeteries along with the Fire Fighters flags in Rehoboth.

Plus, for the past five years the Veterans office started placing on the utility poles the American flags along Bay State Road from the beginning to the ending of the parade route, from the American Legion Post 302 to the Veterans Memorial at the corner of Bay State Road and US 44.

Also, for a number of years, the Sons of the American Legion Post 302 would put up the state flags at Redway Plain for the towns annual Harvest Festival Event that would be conducted in September. Since that event was dissolved a few years ago, the past two years, the Veterans office has placed the state flags around the Veterans Memorial which has maintained and helped enhance pride for the residents of Rehoboth.

The Veterans office approached the Selectman back in the fall of 2025, asking the Selectman for their approval to move forward on having a contest for redesigning a new flag for our town of Rehoboth.

The only flag Rehoboth has ever had was created during Rehoboth 350th Anniversary event in 1963.

There are now currently four town flags, one that has been at the statehouse for the past 56 years, one is kept in the town vault and two new ones we’re generated, with on being given to Bristol County Agricultural High School and the fourth one it’s currently at the veteran’s office.

Having a conversation with the clerk’s office, the contest for approval by the taxpayers of Rehoboth can be conducted during a town meeting in the fall by using the clickers. So, we can have 10, or 30 or 50 contestants and everyone would be able to vote for their choice.

The deadline has been set for the 4th of July in 2027 as the deadline and to be voted on in the fall at the fall Special Town Meeting.

All inquiries will come through the Director of Veteran Services office telephone number 508-252-4467, or you can e-mail veterans@rehobothma.gov and put in the “subject” Rehoboth flag.

AI is encouraged and all formats must be in a jpeg or pdf format. No others will be excepted

Rehoboth’s 2026 Memorial Day Parade & Ceremony

Rehoboth’s 2026 Memorial Day Parade & Ceremony went on as planned despite other surrounding communities canceling their events due to inclement weather. The Director of Veteran Services was only going to cancel the parade if lightning was in the area, otherwise the Veterans office held true to its promise and postings, proceeding onward rain or shine. Although the rain held off until around 9:45 AM, unfortunately the attendees and participants got little rain during the parade but only a little drizzle during the Ceremony for honoring those who paid the Ultimate Sacrifice and concluding with the raising of the American Flag to full staff.

Residents gathered along the 1.1 mile parade route, as a long line of marchers and apparatus made their journey through the Old Rehoboth Village on Bay State Road and towards the Veterans Memorial. Members of the Rehoboth Color Guard, American Legion Post 302, Antique vehicles from Bristol County Savings Bank and the Rehoboth Lions, Rehoboth police department, Dighton-Rehoboth Marching Band, Rehoboth Board of Selectman including Skip Vadnais who just had a knee replacement, Rehoboth Fire Department, Boy Scouts Troop 13, Cub Pack 1, Aura Kick boxing, Girl Scout troops, local dancers, & witches, Wreaths Across America, 4H Club with Anawan Farms trailer, other clubs, antique tractors, antique fire trucks, RDL Equipment, B & R Fournier Construction Inc, Todd & Ozzy and other local business and bring up the rear was our Rehoboth Ambulances.

While businesses and organizations handed out or tossed candy to the children and waving along the parade route, with the music in the air despite the rain and dancers smiling, Rehoboth had attendees huddled under pop-up tents while others opted for umbrellas and raincoats. The hardest few stood without shelter as the rain fluctuated from light rainfall to moderate rainfall. The harmless sacrifice to their comfort, in relation to the meaning of Memorial Day, honoring those who paid the Ultimate Sacrifice for our Freedom.

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DRRSD Receives CTE Expansion Grant Funding

By Mikey Alves

On May 12th, 2026, the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School Committee voted to reduce the FY27 (Fiscal Year 2027) budget proposal following the district’s receipt of state Career and Technical Education (CTE) Expansion Grant funding. The reduction was made possible by approximately $176,000 in FY27 salary offsets connected to the district’s new Chapter 74-aligned CTE programs (Chapter 74 is the funding source associated with programs).

Bill Runey, Superintendent of the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District, said he believes the plan will have a significant long-term impact on both students and the district. “From a student perspective, these programs create more direct pathways to careers that are in high demand and increasingly difficult to fill across Massachusetts and the country. Whether students pursue immediate employment, apprenticeships, military service, certifications, or college, high-quality CTE (Career and Technical Education) gives them real-world skills and experiences that make them more futureready,” Runey said.

On the financial side of the plan, Runey spoke upon how the approved Chapter 74 CTE programs also position the district more favorably over time. “These programs generate additional state reimbursement per student, and they help us retain students who might otherwise leave the district for out-of-district vocational schools. That matters because every time a student leaves for another vocational district, our towns absorb tuition and transportation costs. By expanding high-quality opportunities in-house, we can strengthen programming while also improving the district’s long-term financial position,” Runey added.

The Chapter 74 programs are part of a larger $1.5 million state grant award focused on expanding in-district vocational opportunities. While the adjustment has reduced Dighton’s assessment increase from 3.15% to approximately 2.59%, representing a reduction of roughly $75,500 to the town, Rehoboth’s assessment increase was also reduced by roughly $100,000, from 0.90% to approximately 0.50%.

Runey felt like it was extremely important for the school committee to find a way to lower the assessment increases for both towns. “Throughout this entire budget process, we have tried to balance two very real responsibilities: 1) preserving educational opportunities for students outlined by our DRiving Toward 2030 strategic plan, and 2) also recognizing the financial pressures facing our communities. The School Committee understood that applying the grant-related salary offsets to reduce the FY27 budget was a good-faith effort to address municipal concerns,” Runey said.

Furthermore, with countless amounts of recent college graduates struggling to find stable jobs on top of facing significant student debt, Runey believes expanding vocational and technical education is becoming more crucial than ever for today’s students. “I think one of the biggest mistakes we made nationally for many years was creating the perception that there was only one successful path after high school. The reality is that students have different strengths, interests, and goals, and our responsibility as educators is to create multiple pathways to shape a student’s success. Career and Technical Education today is very different from the outdated stereotypes some people still carry. These are highly skilled, technology-driven programs connected to industries facing major workforce shortages. Students can graduate with certifications, hands-on experience, and a clearer understanding of career opportunities, often while avoiding or reducing significant debt,” Runey stated.

Runey elaborated on his own personal experience as a parent himself, as he witnessed the early hands-on experience his son had learned going into college and how valuable it was. “My son participated in Career and Technical Education, and I saw firsthand the confidence, skills, and opportunities that experience provided him. When he entered Engineering in college, it became very clear that he was significantly more prepared than many of his freshman classmates in terms of practical skills, professionalism, communication, and real-world expectations. It reinforced for me that high-quality CTE programs are not a secondary pathway—they are an incredibly valuable pathway for many students,” Runey said.

In today’s age, Runey spoke about how you can now be versatile as a student, and that there’s no longer an “either/or” conversation between college and vocational education.

“Many students will pursue both. A student may graduate from a Chapter 74 CTE program, enter the workforce, continue their education at the post-secondary level, or do both simultaneously. Expanding these opportunities simply gives students more options and better preparation for the real world,” Runey stated.

“Entirely, I believe this adjustment reflects the district’s continued efforts to identify efficiencies and reduce the burden on taxpayers while still preserving educational programming and long-term revenue-generating opportunities tied to Chapter 74 reimbursement. I appreciated their willingness to act on that opportunity. In my opinion, it reflected thoughtful leadership and a recognition that collaboration and stability matter as we move toward both Town Meetings and FY27 implementation,” Runey added.

Ultimately, the committee’s decision reflects an effort to balance fiscal responsibility with long-term educational growth. Given the current state of the job market and economy, in addition to the incredibly vast advancement of AI taking over human jobs—vocational and technical careers are becoming more crucial than ever.

Continued on next page...

Careers such as electricians, HVAC technicians, nurses, engineers, dental hygienists, etc. have become some of the most valuable and high in-demand professions in today’s world. These industries will always need humans to do the work, so these careers are far less likely to be replaced by artificial intelligence anytime soon.

As vocational and technical careers continue becoming more valuable in today’s workforce, district officials believe expanding Chapter 74 opportunities will not only strengthen the school system financially, but also provide students with practical skills and clearer pathways toward future success.

Rehoboth Approves Multi-Family Overlay District

By Joe Siegel

Voters at the June 2 Spring Town Meeting approved a zoning bylaw change which will create a Multi-Family Overlay District.

The vote was 194 in favor, with 81 in opposition.

Town officials, including Selectman Lenny Mills, encouraged the attendees to approve the bylaw change.

“This, tonight, in front of you, is the area where (the MFOD) has to go,” Mills explained. “Keep your brain and your focus on the goal. Do you want this downside left to the commonwealth? And how will they treat us? You see how they’re treating us now. I’m scared because I, as a businessman, wouldn’t leave that to chance. I wouldn’t leave (the state) to pick (the location) and I would not leave it to them to come in and tell us how big it’s going to be and how many units (we will have).”

Robert Materne, Chairman of the Conservation Commission, said he was familiar with the 20 acre property, noting only eight acres were “buildable.”

“Any project that’s going to go here will probably be a 40B,” Materne noted. “Although Planning has no say with 40Bs, there are two state agencies that do. One of them is the Board of Health. The other one is the Conservation Commission. 40Bs have to follow all the regulations of the Wellness Protection Act and the Rivers Protection Act. They keep saying there’s 200 units, 16 units per acre. I can’t see where you’re going to get more than 150 at most on this property. Because of the wetlands, because of the river and where it’s located, it’s definitely the best choice to go for. We really do need the money that the state gives us.”

The Governor’s office has warned that communities which choose not to comply with the MBTA Communities Law will lose funding from the Housing Choice Initiative, the Local Capital Projects Fund established in section 2EEEE of chapter 29; the MassWorks infrastructure program established in section 63 of chapter 23A, or the HousingWorks infrastructure program established in section 27½ of chapter 23B.

Voters also approved $15,073,790 to fund town government for the next fiscal year, which begins on July 1. This year’s budget represents a 5 percent increase over FY26. Most of the increase is due to election costs and early voting, addition of cyber security software, pension, health insurance costs.

$24,312,073 was approved to pay the assessments of the Dighton/Rehoboth Regional School System.

“We are seeing something that is increasingly rare across Massachusetts,” Superintendent Bill Runey told the attendees. “Enrollment growth. While many districts continue to experience declining enrollment, Dighton-Rehoboth’s enrollment has increased district wide and our high school enrollment is growing as well.”

The amount of $1,373,571 was approved for Bristol Plymouth Regional Technical High School. The assessment was based on enrollment of 56 Rehoboth students enrolled, compared to FY’26 of 47.

Other articles which were approved:

Appropriate $1, 080, 826 for Capital Improvement Projects, including vehicle purchases: Ford F350 for the Highway Department - $68,300, Bucket Truck- Forestry - $239,000, Two SUV Patrol Vehicles - Police Department - $150,616. Equipment - Fire Department Turn Out Gear - $262,500, I-Pads on Fire Trucks - $12,000.

Raise and appropriate or transfer from available funds a sum of $100,000 for the purpose of increasing PFAS Remediation budget line for FY2026.

Vote to establish a special purpose stabilization account for PFAS remediation and fund by raising and appropriating or transfer from available funds the sum of $500,000.

Raise and appropriate or transfer from available funds $300,000 for the remediation of PFAS for fiscal year 2027.

Appropriate $70,000, for the purposes of partnering with a consultant, pursue engineering studies, and execution of a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Senior Housing, by the Rehoboth Housing Authority for the redevelopment of the Anawan School property located at 51 Bay State Road.

Appropriate $339,036 from the PEG Access and Cable Fund for the purpose of supporting cable access services for the Town of Rehoboth.

Rehoboth Fire Chief Contract

By Joe Siegel

The Town of Rehoboth has entered into a three year contract with Fire Chief Peter Graves.

Graves will be paid a base salary of $128,750, an Emergency Management Agency Director stipend of $6,180, and a Certified Inspector stipend of $5000 for a total adjusted salary of $139,000 from July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027.

Graves’ adjusted salary will increase to $143,000 effective July 1, 2027 through June 30, 2028.

Graves’ adjusted salary will increase to $147,000 for the third year of the contract, which runs until June 30, 2029.

The Board of Selectmen and the Fire Chief will create goals and objectives before March 1, 2027. A review and evaluation of the Fire Chief’s performance will then be conducted.

The Town shall pay the Fire Chief an annual holiday stipend of $4000 in consideration of the Fire Chief’s obligation to work during federal and state holidays. The Chief will also be provided with an annual clothing allowance of $2000.

Under the General Provisions section of the contract, the Fire Chief is not required to be a resident of Rehoboth.

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Rehoboth Town Administrator Search

By Joe Siegel

A new Town Administrator should be hired sometime in June. Selectman David Pereira said nine applications have been submitted for the position. The field will then be narrowed down and interviews will be conducted.

“I didn’t expect to get as many as we did,” Pereira said Monday. “It will be interesting to see who comes out on top. I’m happy with the candidates that did come forward and I’m happy that there’s a lot of interest in our town because it’s a great place to work, a great place to be.”

Chair Skip Vadnais noted the new Town Administrator is part of a long-planned reorganization of the Selectmen’s office. “We have

all discussed our ability to make financial plans and as a result we melded two jobs together (Town Administrator and Director of Finance),” Vadnais continued. “Once we select a Town Administrator, we need to review how our office is functioning.”

Commercial & Industrial Paving • Residential Driveways

The Board voted in March to combine the two positions. “We concluded there were deficiencies in the contract for Town Administrator,” Vadnais explained on March 23. “It did not include long-term planning, budget reviews, investment oversight, financial analysis, etc.”

A consulting group was retained to evaluate the workings of town government. Recommendations were made to the board suggesting improvements. “We incorporated all of that and made a decision that the best thing we could do was what I call collapsing both contracts into one,” Vadnais added. “We created a new job description. This is going to give us a better tool for our financial planning. It’s becoming more and more difficult for us to move ahead on property taxes, you can only support so much.”

Town Administrator Deborah Arruda’s contract expires on June 30, along with the contract of Sue Pimental, the Director of Finance.

Rehoboth Council on Aging

Breakfast

Mon / Wed / Fri From 8:30-10

Lunch

Mon / Wed @ Noon. Come join us

Linda Ferreira from Edward Jones

Friday June 12th @ 8:30-10:00

Info session: Estate Planning

Grab a cup of coffee & stop by her table

Trivia

Monday June 1st @ 12:45

How Food Affects Sleep & Energy

Thursday June 11th @ 10:00

By Tara Hammes RDN from MCOA Muffins & coffee served

Summer Splash Bash

Wed June 17th Noon-2:00pm

Tickets $10.00 Seating limited

Piano Serenade

Fridays 9:30 - 11:00

Russell Raiche will be playing the piano for us

Book Club

The First Monday of Month at 10:00 Held in the Arcade

Join Our Walking Club

Mon-Wed-Friday 9:30AM

NEW Start time 10:00. Please join our email list for inclement weather closings

Join our Email List

Updates during the month

COAmail@rehobothma.gov

Please also find us at https://www.rehobothma.gov/council-aging-0

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

9:00 Barre Class $3.00 Helps with balance, strength, and posture

10:00 Walking Club

10:00 Cornhole Toss

10:00 Interval Fitness (NEW) $3.00

Timed intervals for fitness and rest focus on strength, balance, cardio, and a relaxing stretch at the end. Use of various props. All fitness levels welcome 10:30 Bocce

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 We will be doing Glass etching, wool felting, and more. These classes will be priced accordingly

10:00 Seated Yoga Fusion $3.00 Gentle Yoga with blend of movement and breathwork

10:00 Sewing & Quilting

11:00 Functional Fitness $3.00 StrengthBalance-Cardio-Stretch with a mix of props and great music

1:00 Hi-Lo Jack

1:00- 3:00 Oil Painting Class (NEW) any skill level $ 5.00

Fax 508-252-4716

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

Wednesdays

8:30 - 10:00 Breakfast

10:00 Walking Club

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

10:30 Bocce

10:30 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 Fun, rhythmic cardio workout using stability balls and drumsticks

11:00 Functional Fitness $3.00 StrengthBalance-Cardio-Stretch with a mix of props and great music

Noon Soup to Go

1:00-3:00 Paper Crafting Class: Card Making, Stamping, Cricut Machine . $5.00

1:00-3:00 Watercolor Class $5.00

1:00-3:00 Cribbage

Fahey’s Painting

10:30 Cornhole Toss

9:30 -11:00 piano Serenade by Russell Raiche

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

Rehoboth Public Health Nurse

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

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

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

• Wellness Clinic

• Podiatry Clinic: Last Thursday of the month

• Blood Pressures & Glucose Screenings

Please contact Geri Hamel for more information on these services.

Rehoboth Council on Aging

A Municipal Department of the Town Mission:

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

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

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

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

• Can connect to their peers and community

• Can foster inter-generational relationships and shared activities

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

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

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

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

The Rehoboth Council on Aging shall:

a. Provide, coordinate and link available resources to help meet the needs of the Town of Rehoboth’s elders.

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

Rehoboth Ramblings

By Leslie Patterson

Creatures Great and Small Welcome Summer

We had a Memorial Day visitor in our yard, not exactly unexpected this time of year. A fairly large snapping turtle had emerged from the pond and was busy laying eggs in our yard. She had dug out five holes in well-moistened soil following the previous day’s rain. This process took three hours or more, not that I watched out the window every moment. After covering up the hole (yes, the yard was a bit of a mess at this point), she slowly lumbered back to the pond. The next morning, sure enough, the clutch of eggs had been disturbed with only the rubbery shells remaining.

When I went outside, I smelled skunk so maybe that’s what got them, a skunk exclaiming, “Oh boy, fresh eggs for breakfast!” Turtles have laid eggs before in our yard and each time something gets the eggs.

Although these carapaced creatures may look prehistoric, having turtles emerge from a pond is not like having alligators on your lawn, another of many reasons I’ve never wanted to live in Florida. Speaking of reptiles, I understand I just missed seeing a rather long eastern milk snake slither across the road into the woods. That’s OK. I saw it or its kin scoot under the porch last year and about jumped out of my skin, however harmless such a snake is. A paucity of venomous snakes is one other great thing about New England in my book.

To return to snapping turtles, the Mass.gov website informs me that the current record of wild-caught snapper was 75.6 pounds and it was caught in Mass. I have never seen a snapper that big though we have helped some pretty big ones cross the road from time to time. Turtles are prone to warming up in the spring by sitting in the middle of a paved road.

To help them move to safety, we’ve used a sturdy plastic snow shovel which you carefully maneuver under the turtle’s rear, gently nudging it in the right direction. The turtle will get mad so you need to stay away from its head, as it will quickly turn around and snap at you. I once saw someone pick up a snapper by the tail and carry it back to water but I certainly wouldn’t advise this.

According to the Mass.gov website, “The time most people encounter them is during the egg-laying season in late May and June, when females may travel considerable distances from water to nest. Nesters are attracted by the smell of disturbed earth, and often deposit their large clutches of 20-40 spherical eggs in piles of loam or recently tilled gardens and lawns. Eggs take about 90 days to hatch; young may overwinter in the nest and emerge the following spring (my note: this is only if something doesn’t get them first). Snappers grow very rapidly when young, and may live for 50 years or more. They are formidable biters when on land or removed from water but more docile in water.”

As a species, snapping turtles have been around for about 90 million years (!) according to the Audubon Society. This means they survived the massive extinction that killed off the dinosaurs 65 million years ago. So yes, they certainly are prehistoric and true survivors. If you’d like to know more about these amazing creatures: https://www.audubon.org/magazine/staying-power-snapping-turtles Spring and early summer are also marked by the happy songs of various birds returning north. This year for the first time I heard the distinctive sound of the great crested flycatcher (I think), identified thanks to a birding app, though I didn’t actually see the birds. Cheerful songbirds singing all day among the new green leaves (not yet chewed up by various insects) – what a lovely sound and sight, especially when you think of the miserable snow and cold of just a few months ago.

We will still suffer with ticks (seemingly new disease-bearing ones all the time), mosquitoes, and new nuisances like the spot-

ted lantern fly (I haven’t seen one yet but undoubtedly will soon). Let’s not forget poison ivy, growing like a weed indeed. On second thought, after the rather bumpy, up and down spring weather we have had this year, let’s forget about poison ivy and its ilk and just take a moment to appreciate the wonder that is June in New England.

The Seekonk Scene

From The Seekonk Town Clerk’s Office

Happy June Everyone! June is the official beginning of summer and also the start of summer break for students. We would like to congratulate and wish all the 2026 Seekonk Graduates success and happiness as they begin their new journey.

We were honored to attend the Memorial Day Parade and would like to say thank everyone who made the parade and ceremony such a success. The town had a wonderful turnout and both were beautifully conducted to honor our fallen heroes.

Annual Spring Town Meeting News

Seekonk held its Spring Town Meeting on May 11, 2026 at the Seekonk High School. Below is a report summarizing the meeting and votes. The complete set of minutes can be found on the Town Clerk’s webpage.

The meeting was called to order at 6:11PM. The turnout represented 1.7% of the town’s 12,834 registered voters, with 212 registered voters in attendance.

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Article 1 - To receive Town Officers or Committees reports.

Action on the motion: Motion passed.

Article 2 - To see what sums of money the Town will vote to raise and appropriate or transfer from available funds or borrow for Operating Expenses and the Sanitation Fund of the Town for the Fiscal Year commencing July 1, 2026 and ending June 30, 2027.

A motion was made and seconded on Town Meeting floor by the Board of Selectmen to increase line item 56 Section D-Education by $173,000 (Chapter 70 money). The total number for line item 56, Section D-Education totaled $35,045,158.

Action on the motion: Motion passed.

Motion was made and seconded on Town Meeting floor by the Select Board to appropriate the sum of $76,847,160 to defray charges and expenses of the Town for Fiscal Year 2026 for the purposes and amounts set forth in Budget Schedules A through J in column titled Select Board Budget 2026.

Action on the motion: Motion passed.

Motion was made and seconded on Town Meeting floor by the Select Board, that the Town appropriate the sum of $2,039,084 to defray charges and expenses of operating the Sanitation Enterprise Fund for the Fiscal Year 2027 for the purpose and amount set forth in Schedule K in the column titled Select Board Recommended Budget 2027: the sum of $2,039,084 to be provided from revenues of the Sanitation Enterprise Fund.

Action on the motion: Motion passed.

Article 3 - To see if the Town will vote to fix the salary and compensation for the elected and appointed officials of the Town as provided by GL c 41, s108 for their services for the fiscal year commencing July 1, 2026, provided that any part-time elected official may waive receipt of compensation.

Action on the motion: Motion passed

Article 4 - To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from the Municipal Capital Stabilization fund or available funds in the treasury, or transfer from designated funds that have been reserved for appropriation the following sums to be expended for departmental equipment and all incidental and related expenses, including new or continuing leases for such equipment, and further to authorize appropriate Town officials to enter into contracts for more than three years for such purposes. The following sums to be expended as follows:

• Year Three (3) of the three (3) year lease/purchase of one (1) bucket truck for the Public Works Department, to be expended under the direction of the Select Board $67,945

• Year Two (2) of the three (3) year lease/purchase of one (1) large dump truck for the Public Works Department, to be expended under the direction of the Select Board $110,575

• Purchase a trackless tractor for the Public Works Department, with funds to be expended under the direction of the Select Board $250,000

• Purchase a MCC7500s Radio Console for the Communications Department, with funds to be expended under the direction of the Select Board $63,000

• Purchase two (2) administrative vehicles for the Fire Department, with funds to be expended under the direction of the Select Board $144,000

• Purchase the Jaws of Life for the Fire Department, with funds to be expended under the direction of the Select Board $65,000

• Replace the servers for Animal Control, IT Utility software, Domain controller and Assessor at Town Hall, with funds to be expended under the direction of the Select Board $41,660

• Purchase a LED Color Sign for the Human Services Department, with funds to be expended under the direction of the Select Board

$15,000

• Purchase fifty-one (51) body worn cameras for the Police Department, to be expended under the direction of the Select Board

$64,727

• Purchase fifty (50) Ballistic helmets for the Police Department, with funds to be expended under the direction of the Select Board

$65,000

• Purchase & install additional cameras for the Animal Control Department, to be expended under the direction of the Select Board

$15,000

Action on Motion: Motion passed

Article 5 – To see if the Town will authorize the appropriate Town officials to enter into a five-year contract to purchase body worn cameras and the bundle pack.

fund the sum of $149,102 as a grant to Seekonk Cable Access, Inc., the Town’s PEG Access Provider, to carry out its PEG Access Provider functions in FY 2027.

Action on the motion: Motion passed

Article 12 - To see if the Town will vote to appropriate from the Building & Infrastructure Stabilization fund the sum of $725,000 to purchase and install at the Seekonk High School pool a specialized HVAC system designed for indoor pool rooms to control humidity, maintain air quality, and prevent structural damage, including all incidental and related expenses, to replace the existing Dectron unit, to be expended under the direction of the School Committee.

Who You Hire Matters!

Action on Motion: Motion passed

Article 6 – To see if the Town will authorize the appropriate Town officials to enter into contracts for three years or more for new or continuing leases for police vehicles.

Action on Motion: Motion passed

Buying or selling a home is one of the big decisions you’ll make.

Action on the motion: Motion passed

Who Yo Matt

Having the right team difference between a s one.

Article 7 – To see if the Town of Seekonk will vote to act on the report of the Community Preservation Committee on the Fiscal Year 2027 Community Preservation Budget and to appropriate from the Community Preservation Fund, pursuant to G.L. c. 44B, § 6, a sum of money to meet the administrative expenses and all other necessary and proper expenses of the Community Preservation Committee for Fiscal Year 2027; and to reserve for later appropriation monies from the Community Preservation annual revenues or available funds in the amounts recommended by the Community Preservation Committee for open space, historic resources and community housing purposes, as well as a sum of money to be placed in the Fiscal Year 2027 budgeted reserve for general Community Preservation Act purposes.

Buying or selling a home i decisions you’ll make.

Action on Motion: Motion passed

With Russell Weddell, B

Article 8 - To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to dispose of surplus property or material, exclusive of buildings and land, but including compost, no longer needed by the Town.

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Williams South Watupp Mortgage, you get the Market expertise

Action on the motion: Motion passed

With Russell Weddell, Bro

Article 9 - To see if the Town will vote to transfer a sum of money from the Stabilization Fund to the FY 2026 Town Meeting Operating Budget Line Item #69 (Snow & Ice Expenses).

Strategic negotiatio

Reliable financing

Williams South Watuppa Mortgage, you get the per

Clear communicatio

Market expertise

Action on the motion: Motion passed

Strategic negotiation

Reliable financing

Article 10 - To see if the Town will vote to appropriate from Ambulance Receipts the sum of $119,797.25 for the second year of a four (4) year lease/purchase for an EMS/Rescue vehicle for the Fire Department, to be expended under the direction of the Select Board.

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Let’s make your next mov

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Action on the motion: Motion passed

Article 11 - To see if the Town will vote to transfer from the PEG Cable Access and Cable Related

SEEKONK DENTAL

Article 13 - To see if the Town will vote to appropriate from the Building & Infrastructure Stabilization fund the sum of $975,000 to replace the asphalt, curbing, and drainage at the George R. Martin Elementary School, including design and engineering, as needed, the purchase and installation of materials, and all other incidental and related expenses, to be expended under the direction of the School Committee.

DR. FRANK CASARELLA & DR. LURI LEE

Building Committee of no more than 20 voting members each of whom shall be a Town resident over the age of 18, and 35 total members to be appointed by the School Committee, or in the case of employees and representatives of Town departments other than the schools, the Select Board, to oversee the potential school building projects based around Hurley Middle School with consideration for grades 5 through 12.

Action on the motion: Motion failed

Article 14 – To see if the Town will vote to appropriate from the Building & Infrastructure Stabilization fund the sum of $100,000 to fund the third phase of updating door locks at the Dr. Kevin M. Hurley Middle School, and all assembly areas across the district, including all incidental and related expenses, to be expended under the direction of the School Committee.

Action on the motion: Motion passed

Article 15 – To see if the Town will vote to establish a School

Action on Motion: Motion passed

Article 16 – To see if the Town will vote to accept the provisions of General Law Chapter 41, Section 110A, which statute allows Town Hall to remain closed on any and all Saturdays to the same extent as if Saturday were a legal holiday.

Action on the motion: Motion passed

Article 17 – To see if the Town will vote to accept the provisions of General Law Chapter 53, Section 9A, which statute establishes the final date for obtaining blank nomination papers as 48 weekday hours prior to the hour that such nomination papers must be submitted to the Board of Registrars of Voters for certification.

Action on Motion: Motion passed

Article 18 - To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning-By-laws of the Town of Seekonk to establish a Billboard Overlay District by inserting new language. – Motion made on floor to INDEFINITELY POSTPONE

Action on the motion to indefinitely postpone: Motion passed

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Motion was made on the floor to reconsider Article 13 – To see if the Town will vote to conduct an engineering study to replace the asphalt and curbing at George R. Martin Elementary School in the amount of $100,000.

Action on motion: Motion failed Meeting dissolved at 8:59PM.

We would like to thank the poll workers, town hall staff, high school staff, police, fire, DPW, and voters for their participation in town meeting.

Dog Licenses And Town Census Are Past Due

Thank you for all those who applied for their dog licenses. To date, we have processed 1,250 dog license applications.

DOG TAGS EXPIRED MARCH 31st. A late fee of $25 will be added to all dog license renewals beginning June 1st. Per MGL Chapter 140 Section 137: All dogs 6 months or older must be licensed annually with proof of a current rabies vaccination. Failure to comply will result in issuance of MGL violation & fine.

All dog licensing requires online registration. Payments can be made in-person or by mail, but the licensing process requires online registration. If you have any difficulty completing your application online, please call us and we are happy to walk you through the process over the phone OR you can stop by our office with your valid rabies certificate and valid email address, and we will assist you at our kiosk station.

Annual Town Census

Thank you for all those who have returned their 2026 Town Census/Street Listing form. Pursuant to Massachusetts General Law, any registered voter who has not responded to the Annual Town Census/Street List by the first Monday in June will have their voter status changed to inactive.

Confirmation notices will be mailed to 3,414 residents who did not complete their Annual Town Census. State law requires these notices to be mailed to all non-respondents, resulting in an additional expense to the Town. To avoid an interruption in voting status and unnecessary mailing costs, we strongly encourage you to return your Annual Town Census.

Reminders From The Tax Collector’s Office

If you have any questions concerning any of the following, please call the tax collector’s office directly at 508-336-2930.

Did you know the Registry of Motor Vehicles issues motor vehicle excise tax bills throughout the year? The majority are issued in February and due in March (tax commitment #1-2026). If you have not received your bill by March 1st please contact the Tax Collector’s Office at 508-336-2930.

If you no longer have the vehicle, please see the reverse side of the excise tax bill for instructions and provide the information to the Tax Assessor’s Office.

• Motor Vehicle Excise Tax commitment #7 (2025) is with the Deputy Collector

• Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Commitment #1 (2026) is with the Deputy Collector

• Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Commitment #2 (2026) was issued April 7th and due May 7th

• Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Commitment #8 (2026) was issued April 7th and due May 7th

• Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Commitment #3 (2026) is due July 2nd

• FY 26 Disposal Bills were mailed on September 18, 2025 and were due October 21, 2025 ($315.00 per unit). Demand notices were mailed November 18th and were due December 2nd. For your updated balance, please contact the collector’s office.

Real Estate and Personal Property Taxes:

• Further collection notices will be issued for any unpaid Fiscal Year 2025 balances.

• Fiscal Year 2026 Preliminary Real Estate and Personal Property Tax Bills were mailed the first week in July.

• The first quarter payment was due by August 4, 2025. The second quarter was due by November 3, 2025.

• Actual Real Estate and Personal Property Tax Bills were mailed at the end of December.

• The third quarter was due February 2nd and fourth will be due May 4th

• Demand notices for Fiscal Year 2026 unpaid Real Estate Taxes are due June 11th

• Fiscal Year 2027 Preliminary Taxes will be mailed the first week of July 2026

If you are wondering how much you paid in real estate taxes last year, the information can be found on the Collector’s webpage on the Town’s website under “How Much Did I Pay in Real Estate Taxes Last Year.”

Please note: The Tax Collector’s office does NOT process the Water Department’s bills and cannot accept payments for the Water District. Please mail or drop off your payment to Seekonk Water District, 50 Water Lane, Seekonk, MA 02771

Bristol County Savings Bank and Its 300 Employees Support the Communities They Serve with BCSB Cares:

The entire staff at Bristol County Savings Bank (BCSB) donated their time and talents to area nonprofits last week during its fifth annual BCSB CARES: Employee Volunteer Day. The Bank closed all its offices, and more than 300 Bank employees, along with its affiliates, Bristol Wealth Group and Milestone Mortgage Solutions, spent the afternoon giving back at 18 different sites across the Bank’s service area in southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

“As a community bank, putting people first is at the heart of everything we do, and BCSB CARES Day is a meaningful reflection of that commitment,” said John Silva, President & CEO of Bristol County Savings Bank. “Seeing our employees come together in

Employee Volunteer Day

support of vital nonprofit organizations is a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished when we invest in the communities where we live and work. I’m proud of our team’s dedication to service and grateful to our community partners for the important work they do every day and for welcoming us to be part of it.”

The organizations served by this year’s Employee Volunteer Day included: TAUNTON AREA – Boys & Girls Club of Pawtucket (Camp Ramsbottom in Rehoboth), Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro South (Camp Riverside), City of Taunton/Weir Waterfront Park, My Brother’s Keeper (Easton) and Old Colony Habitat for Humanity (Raynham); ATTLEBORO AREA – Capron Park Zoo, Attleboro/

Norton YMCA (Camp Finberg) and the Hockomock Area YMCA; GREATER NEW BEDFORD – Boys & Girls Club of Greater New Bedford, PACE Head Start, Gifts to Give (Acushnet), My Brother’s Keeper (Dartmouth) and Round The Bend Farm (Dartmouth); GREATER FALL RIVER – Boys & Girls Club of Fall River (Camp Welch in Assonet) and Battleship Cove; and RHODE ISLAND – Books Are Wings (Pawtucket), Sleep In Heavenly Peace (Pawtucket) and Care New England (Providence).

Bristol County Savings Bank Background Information: Bristol County Savings Bank, a Massachusetts chartered bank and whollyowned subsidiary of Beacon Bancorp, is a full-service banking institution with approximately $3.1 billion in assets. Founded in 1846, the Bank serves individuals, businesses, municipalities, and non-profit organizations throughout Southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island. The Bank’s Main Office and Corporate Headquarters are located on Broadway in Taunton, Massachusetts. For more information on Bristol County Savings Bank, visit www. bristolcountysavings.com.

*Sustainable Seekonk*

By Christine Zadykovich,

Recycling

Coordinator

@ 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:

Shred Day at Town Hall: The Recycling Committee & Seekonk Public Library are partnering again to host an annual shred day for your confidential papers. This event will be held at the Town Hall 100 Peck St on Saturday June 6th from 9am-noon, see website for registration and more information. www.SeekonkPL.org

Ready for Plastic Free July? Check out the daily challenges on @SustainableSeekonk & @SeekonkRecyclingCommittee pages on Facebook, and tag us in your pictures/postings. For each tag and completed challenge, you’ll be entered to win a variety of plastic-free prizes! Prizes include beeswax wraps, silicone zipper bags, wool dryer balls, eco scrubber sponges, bamboo toothbrushes and refillable cleaning products.

Interested in Recycling or Sustainability? We’re looking for Committee Members! There are two open seats on the Recycling Committee, if interested please submit a talent bank form on www.Seekonk-MA.gov

Second Saturdays @ Special Recycling Shed! The Special Recycling Shed at TARF is open ONLY on the 2nd Saturday of each month 8AM-12PM, and accepts anti-freeze, all light bulbs, all batteries, all mercury items, radioactive smoke/carbon detectors, ink/toner cartridges and string lights & extension cords - free of charge.

Solar panels & EMPTY propane tanks/fire extinguishers (remove all plastic parts) w/blue $10 bulky stickers as well.

Seekonk Transfer Station/TARF (351 Fall River Ave) open year-round Mon-Thu 7am-3pm and Fri 6:15-9:45am (Sat hours vary seasonally-check website or call) for drop off of yard waste (leaves, grass, twigs). Bulky Waste Pass Days will start back up in July for FY27. FY27 passes cannot be sold until July 1st and must be purchased at the DPW offices.

Food Waste Compost Collection at TARF: Black Earth Compost collection where residents can bring household food waste. Acceptable items include: fruit & vegetable scraps, 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!

continued on next page...

Seekonk DPW Offices (871 Taunton Ave) has textile collection bins & a Terracycle collection shed in the parking lot, and small rechargeable batteries/cell phone collection bin and eye glasses collection inside the lobby. String lights & extension cords are also accepted anytime. Bulky Waste Pickup stickers available for the 2nd & 4th Weds of each month for most furniture and household items, 3rd Tues for metal/electronics, & 3rd Weds for mattresses/ boxsprings. There is also a mail in form available online if you’re unable to come into the office during office hours. www.SeekonkMA.gov

Don’t Trash It! Consider donating items still usable-post a free CURB ALERT on social media, or search donation near me for pickup if you can’t drop off at any local resource like Savers, Goodwill, 4 Echoes or Angel’s Care Closet. If items are broken/no longer usable, pick up a special recycling packet at DPW or town website for FREE recycling resources-especially for electronics which contain valuable materials that can be reused/recycled when handled properly.

Recycling Tip of The Month: Shredded paper is NOT accepted in your curbside recycling bins-if you shred papers at home, the materials must then go in your blue bag trash. Please try to reduce the papers that need to be shredded - Jopt out of paper statements and don’t print things that aren’t truly needed. Save for the minimum time, and instead of shredding at home - try to visit a local shredding event, like the one we hosted this month!

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

Letter Carriers Support Doorways Families

Once again, the Seekonk Letter Carriers saddled up to conduct their long-standing springtime food drive; food collected during this annual event will benefit local residents, as all the donations went to the Doorways food pantry. The drive raised over 2,000 pounds of food, thanks to the generosity of the people of Seekonk and the willingness of the letter carriers to undertake the extra work involved in collecting the donations. The food drive provides not only a great quantity of much needed food but also provides a great

deal of much needed variety. When a person starts to prepare their favorite dish, nothing works so well as having their favorite brand on the shelf.

The National Association of Letter Carriers has been conducting the food drive as a nationwide initiative since 1993, and the Seekonk Letter Carriers have been collecting for Doorways since the pantry opened in 2001. Last year, Doorways provided food support for 5,700 neighbors in need who made over 2,500 shopping trips. Over the last twenty-five years, Doorways has distributed almost two million pounds of food, all at no cost to our client families. We thank the community and especially the Letter Carriers for taking the time to help us in our mission.

Seekonk Fire Museum

2026 Monthly Opening Dates

NOON - 2 PM

June 20 - July 18 - August 15September 19

We thank you for the continued support of the Seekonk Fire Museum. We rely on your gracious donations to continue to honor and support the members and memories of Fire, Police and EMS departments throughout our country!

Donations are always appreciated and can be mailed to: Central Volunteer Fire Association/Seekonk Fire Museum; 211 Newman Avenue, Seekonk, MA 02771

The CVFA is a 501c3 non-profit Association.

Lions Donate $4000 to Doorways

Seekonk Lion’s Club members Guy Larimer and Paul Buckley were on hand on Saturday, May 9, to present a $4000 check to Doorways volunteers. The donation is another example of the club’s commitment to supporting local organizations and initiatives. The Seekonk Lion’s Club has a long history of community involvement and charitable giving.

Seekonk Memorial Day Ceremony

By Joe Siegel

Town and state officials gathered at the Seekonk Veterans Memorial on May 23 to honor the members of our armed services. In addition, the event also marked the 10th anniversary of the Memorial.

Doreen Taylor, speaking on behalf of the Friends of Seekonk Veterans Memorial Park, paid tribute to the Memorial Park Committee, which included David Viera, Robert DeFontes, David Sullivan, Vidal DeMedeiros, Joseph Velardo, Don Kinniburgh, James Robbins, Sean Healy, Francis Cordeiro, and Steven Arruda.

“It would not have been accomplished without the dedication and commitment of that team of individuals determined to see it through. This should really make the town of Seekonk proud. This Veterans Memorial Park has stood and will continue to stand as a place of reflection for those who did not make it home. I would like to acknowledge DPW (Department of Public Works). They have kept this park looking fantastic throughout the seasons and years. For this I say thank you to (Director) David Cabral and everyone at DPW for your time and continued support. There is one person I would like to recognize for his imagination, creativity, and all his hard work in keeping this memorial looking as perfect as perfect can be.”

Taylor presented a plaque to architect Mark Drapeau “who has watched over this park from day one with care.”

“He has also done it with respect, honor, and dignity for all our veterans,” Taylor continued. “I saw everybody who put their heart and soul into this. That committee was second to none. Everything was donated - time, heavy equipment, direct security, everything.”

“I’m not a veteran, I’ve never worn a uniform, and hats off to all of you who have,” Drapeau said. “I appreciate all your sacrifices. I’ve taken a lot of time to recognize and to appreciate everything that you veterans have done.”

Other speakers included James LaFlame, the Veterans Service Officer, Kevin Kugel from the Veterans Service Council, poet Margie Rieske, State Representative Steven Howitt, R-Seekonk, and Adam Tumlinson from the Seekonk Veterans Council, who read a proclamation from Governor Maura Healey.

The Benediction was delivered by Chaplain John Amaral.

The Seekonk High School Band performed the National Anthem and other music.

Select Board Raises Concerns About School Department Warrant Article

By Joe Siegel

The Seekonk Select Board voiced their frustrations with the School Department over one of their Town Meeting warrant articles. In the warrant, the School Department had requested “$975,000 to be drawn from the Building & Infrastructure Stabilization Fund to replace the asphalt, curbing, and drainage at the George R. Martin Elementary School, including design and engineering, as well as, the purchase and installation of materials.”

The article was defeated.

School Business Administrator Ryan McGee introduced the article by explaining the work would be done in two phases. A motion was made to request $447,000 but that was withdrawn after school and town officials met during the meeting. The decision was then made to ask for the full amount of $975,000.

Select Board Chair Gary Sagar believed it would’ve been a mistake to split the project into two phases.

There had been no previous discussion by the Select Board or the School Committee to break the project into phases or to reduce the requested amount.

Select Board member Michael Healy alleged he was not notified about the changes before the meeting. “The (school department) also publicly stated that at some point they discussed (splitting the project into two phases) with this board,” Healy said. “I don’t ever remember having a meeting with them discussing they were going to lower the price and cut it into two separate sections.”

Healy was upset that the parking lot warrant article was brought up for reconsideration at the end of the meeting. “To change the scope of how the article was written in the warrant,” Healy said. “To just go for engineering services.” Healy believes the school committee should have waited until the fall town meeting to bring the article back for a vote.

Healy also felt misled over the installation of door locks for Hurley Middle School. Voters approved the appropriation of $100,000 for the expenditure. “Not once did they ever say that they were going to add other facilities to it and other larger venue areas at the other schools.”

Other board members echoed Healy’s sentiments. “I didn’t appreciate it,” said Elizabeth Elmasian. “We should’ve been made aware of what they were going to do.” Robert Archambault said he was “disappointed” with the way the school committee handled the parking lot article.

“I’ve walked the site multiple times. They are right. It is necessary. It does flood out everywhere. It’s necessary for safety and the maintenance of it,” Archambault continued. “But if you’re working on it for three years and you still don’t have a comprehensive plan, estimates, drawings, pretty much what this is going to cost at this point, it’s very difficult to sell that to the (voters). When the town loses confidence in what is being presented to them, it’s going nowhere.”

Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell did not watch the Select Board meeting but promised she would answer any questions the Select Board has for the administrative team.

“I heard a bit of revisionist history about the annual town meeting because there were members of the Finance Committee, Select Board, and Town (legal) counsel who advised the School Department how to phase the Martin School paving project or just get an engineering study done,” School Committee Chair Robert Gerardi said via e-mail on Friday. “The only thing the School Committee is guilty of is trying to please everyone. Lesson learned, no good deed goes unpunished.”

High School Mural Will be Saved

By Joe Siegel

The ‘Warrior’ mural at Seekonk High School will be saved. Many residents, including many graduates of the school, were dismayed when the school department announced plans to paint over the mural this summer.

“We had concern over the removal of the ‘Warrior’ mascot,” said Select Board member Elizabeth Elmasian. “It may implicate issues related to free expression and community representation.”

School Committee member Emily Field reached out to the daughter of Norman Bolan, the man who painted the mural in the high school gymnasium.

“When I looked at (the mural), there were stains on it and different things,” Field said Monday. “I took a picture and put it on my computer and digitally enhanced it. It’s restored. It looks the way it used to. I suggested to Robin that we could reproduce a life size replication of this artwork and we could hang it on the exact same spot on the wall. I showed her a few different options, a banner, a medal, a canvas. She was thrilled with that because at the same time we told her that we could provide her with a copy. It’s a way to honor this work and keep it for a long time.”

Old Town Hall May Become Innovation Center

By Joe Siegel

Select Board member Rob Archambault unveiled plans for a Seekonk Innovation and Stem Center, which will be on the site of the Old Town Hall on Taunton Avenue. The structure has sat unoccupied for several years.

Archmabult estimated a cost of approximately $4 million to renovate the building, which will be used for workforce development. “It’s a complete redo,” Archmabult said, noting state grants would be used to pay for the renovations. “This project will serve our residents across generations, providing STEM, science, technology, mathematics, job training, after-school and summer youth programs, and a dedicated Native American town hall history museum/library.”

Archambault said the town would have to work with companies with job openings, such as in robotics, artificial intelligence, and mathematics.

“I would think, without the grants, this project wouldn’t see the light of day,” said Chair Gary Sagar.

“We’re talking millions to really make something of that building,” Archambault added.

The property, constructed in 1897, had been sold to the Seaconke Wampanoags for $55 in 2014. The tribe had intended to convert the building into a cultural and meeting center. Those plans fell through and now the town owns the building again.

At an October 2022 meeting with the Old Town Hall Building Committee, the Board of Selectmen approved a feasibility study for the building. At the time, Town Administrator Shawn Cadime said the study would present viable options of what could be done with the building and at that point, decide how the Town should move forward with it.

In 2018, Selectmen designated the task of determining the building’s value to members of the town’s Historical commission and the Community Preservation Committee.

Voters at last November’s Town Meeting rejected a warrant article which would have authorized the Select Board to sell the property.

Seekonk Approves $78 Million Budget

By Joe Siegel

The $78.7 million budget for FY’27 was approved at Monday’s Town Meeting. The figure represents a 3.8 percent increase over the previous fiscal year.

$35 million was allocated for Seekonk Public Schools. The Select Board approved an additional $173,000 in Chapter 70 funds to be given to the school department. Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell noted one bus route was reduced and athletic and activity fees will be implemented for the next school year. In addition, transportation fees will increase from $150 to $180 per student.

Town Administrator Shawn Cadime explained there had initially been a budget gap of $3 million. Fixed costs, including health insurance costs and pensions for town employees, were a factor. Cadime noted reductions in general government spending helped to close that gap.

Public Safety spending increased by eight percent. $13.9 million was allocated for the Police and Fire Departments.

Chris Rizzo, a member of the Finance Committee, did not approve of hiring four mid-year hires for the Fire Department. Rizzo believed the extra staffing would “not be sustainable” in the long run. “We do not want to hire these firefighters and be in a scenario where we have to let them go because we couldn’t make it work,” Rizzo said.

The Finance Committee had met with Fire Chief Shaun Whalen last month and voted to eliminate the mid-year hires, which drew some criticism. Select Board member Michael Healy, a former Fire Chief, noted the elimination of the mid-year hires would be “detrimental” to public safety.

Healy said the goal of the Fire Department and the Select Board was to increase staffing and urged voters to support Cadime’s budget.

Voters also approved $725,000 for the purchase of a new air handling unit for the pool at Seekonk High School. The system controls humidity and air temperature as well as heating of the pool water. Ryan McGee, the Business Administrator for the School District, explained there would be new partnerships which would allow the pool to be used by the community. The article was approved with 170 votes in favor and 24 in opposition.

Other articles which were approved:

• An appropriation of $100,000 for updating door locks at Hurley Middle School. This is Phase 3 of the School Safety and Security Project.

• The establishment of a School Building Committee to oversee potential building projects based around Hurley Middle School.

• Transfer from the PEG Cable Access and Cable Related fund the sum of $149,102 as a grant to Seekonk Cable Access, Inc., the Town’s PEG Access Provider, to carry out its PEG Access Provider functions in FY’27.

• An appropriation from Ambulance Receipts the sum of $119,797.25 for the third year of a four (4) year lease/purchase for an EMS/ Rescue vehicle for the Fire Department.

• An appropriation of the funds for departmental equipment, including Year Three (3) of the three (3) year lease/purchase of one (1) bucket truck for the Public Works Department - $67,945, Year Two (2) of the three (3) year lease/purchase of one (1) large dump truck for the Public Works Department - $110,575, and the purchase a trackless tractor for the Public Works Department - $250,000.

Seekonk School Projects Proceed

By Joe Siegel

A few school renovation projects will be proceeding this summer following the approval of funds at the May 11 Town Meeting. The gymnasium floor at Seekonk High School will be resurfaced and a replacement HVAC unit will be purchased and installed for the pool.

Voters approved $725,000 for the purchase of the air handling system, which controls humidity and air temperature as well as heating of the pool water.

In addition, new door locks will be installed at Hurley Middle School.

$100,000 was appropriated for Phase 3 of the School Safety and Security Project.

Kidwell said the School Building Committee approval would go through the Buildings and Facility Subcommittee, which will collect talent bank forms. The committee will be made up of close to 20 individuals and will oversee potential building projects based around Hurley Middle School.

Elmasian Appointed to Medeiros Farm Committee

By Joe Siegel

The Seekonk Select Board appointed Elizabeth Elmasian to serve as their representative on the Medeiros Farm Committee Wednesday.

The vote was 4-1. Chair Gary Sagar, Robert Archambault, Michael Healy, and Elmasian were in favor, with Chris Zorra opposed.

Justin Sullivan, who had been serving as the board’s representative, was given notice that he was being removed. Sullivan hasn’t been a member of the board for over a year, but was allowed to stay on the Medeiros Farm Committee. “I think Mr. Sullivan has done a tremendous job on that committee,” Zorra said. “He’s helped that committee move right along. I would hate to see him go because he’s put a lot of time and effort into that board.”

“I’m not looking to change anything,” Elmasian said. “(The project) hasn’t gone before (the) Zoning (Board) yet. That’s my only issue at this point. I’m just looking to find out what’s going on. I don’t have an agenda.”

At the May 2023 Town Meeting, $150,000 was appropriated from the Community Preservation Fund to hire a consultant to develop a master plan for the Medeiros Farm at Elm Street and Lincoln Street. A seven member committee was appointed to oversee the project. David Sullivan is the Chairman. Sullivan also serves as Chairman of the town’s Planning Board. The other members all represent other town committees.

The Medeiros Farm Recreation and Park Master Plan outlined four objectives: active recreation, passive recreation, historic preservation, and a Community Park.

Seekonk Human Services

Holiday Hours

Closed on Friday, June 19, 2026

Hearing

Clinic

Monday, June 8th 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Chris Brissette from Hearing Life will be here for the hearing clinic. Appointments are scheduled every 15 minutes. Preregistration is required.

Musical Entertainment by Carine Paul

Wed, June 10, 2026 at 1:00pm

Come join in for some music entertainment by Carine Paul. She will be preforming all types of songs for you to enjoy. Preregistration is required.

Overview of Legal Services

Mon, June 15th 10:30am - 12:30pm( (15 minutes appointment only)

Brandon Walecka, Esq., LL.M from Walecka Law, will be providing office hours by appointment. The mini-consultations will center around elder law topics such as probate, questions regarding making a will (other power of attorney, health care proxy, etc.), trusts (irrevocable and revocable), Medicaid/MassHealth rules and eligibility, tax planning and special needs planning. These consults are focused on elder law and estate planning. Please call the office at 508-336-8772. MA residents only. Preregistration is required.

Seekonk Veterans’ Coffee Hour

Monday, June 15, 2026 at 2:00pm

Come and join Seekonk’s Veterans Services Officer, James LaFlame, for our coffee hour. The event is for our veterans to have some coffee and dessert, network with other local veterans, learn about services and programs available to them as a veteran and enjoy great company. Preregistration is required. *There will be no Seekonk Veterans’ coffee hour in July 2026. The next Seekonk Veterans’ coffee hour will be on Monday, August 17, 2026 at 2:00pm. For August, preregistration is required and opens July 15.

Book Club

Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at 10:00am

Come join the discussion of, This Tender Land by William Kent Krueger. An epic tale of four orphans who canoe along the Gilead, Minnesota, and Mississippi Rivers, escaping from a dark, abusive place and searching for a home in depression-era America. The

group will be led with discussion questions, but feel free to bring you own. Preregistration is required.

Kalifornia Karl

Wed, June 17, 2026 at 11:15am

Kalifornia Karl is a singer/guitarist/impressionist that is American’s busiest entertainer with over 1000 performances a year. A winner of Ed McMahon’s TV talent show Star Search in 1991. He has also been featured on the big screen with Gwyneth Paltrow, Andre Braugher and has shared the stage with Michael Buble, Huey Lewis and many others. Lunch will be a pizza and chips. The fee for residents is $10.00 and non-residents is $13.00. Preregistration is required.

July 4th Party

Wed, June 24, 2026 at 11:30am

Join us for our 4th of July party with entertainment by Steve Burke. Steve Burke, an RI musician is a one-man band that plays the keyboard, sax, smooth jazz vocals and dances. You can sit down, relax and listen to songs from Sinatra to Santana and some of his own songs too! This is sure to be a great time. Lunch will be hamburgers and hot dogs. The fee for residents is $10.00 and non-residents is $13.00. Preregistration is required.

Grief and Depression Can Feel Heavy and Overwhelming

Monday, June 29, 2026 at 2:00pm

Please join us for this important presentation on grief and depression. Depression can affect anyone regardless of age, sex, race, ethnicity, income, culture or education. This educational program will be presented by Jennifer Lafleur, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C. Hosted by our Public Health Nurse, Lisa Valente, RN, CDOE on depression and grief. Preregistration is required.

Seekonk Police Department Community Outreach

Patrolwoman Michaela Healey will be serving as the Human Services Liaison Officer. The goal is to create a trust between the citizens of Seekonk and the police department through education, outreach and meaningful community relationships. Officer Healey plans to work closely with citizens, families and location organizations to address concerns such as fraud prevention, elder safety, wellness checks and access to resources. If you have questions or concerns, please contact Seekonk Human Services and Officer Healey will work with them to find answers and/or solutions.

The center is open MondayThursday 8:15am - 4:00pm and Friday 8:15am - 12:00pm. We welcome all to come and enjoy the activities and companionship at Seekonk Human Services.

All Medium: Acrylic, Watercolor and Oil Painting

Fridays from 9:30am - 11:30am

From beginners to experienced painters, all skill levels are welcome. Instructor led every 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Friday. Contact Seekonk Human Services to register. The cost is $3 for residents and $5 for non-residents due upon registration. Class members need to bring their own supplies and a supply list is available.

Podiatry Clinic

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

Dr. Lechan provides monthly podiatry clinics. An appointment is required. Items needed are primary doctor’s name, date of last doctor’s visit, summary of last visit, and list of medications. *The fee for the appointment is $35.00. Paid by cash or check. Call our office to make an appointment.

Women’s Lunch

• Wednesday, June 3, 2026 at 11:30am at Longhorn Steakhouse, 80 Highland Ave, Seekonk

• Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at 11:30am at Davenport’s, 1925 Pawtucket Ave, E. Providence, RI

This group meets the 1st Wednesday of every month. Everything is Dutch treat. If you are interested in joining for good food and good conversation, while supporting our local restaurants, please call the office. Cash payment is preferred. Preregistration is required by the Monday before the luncheon.

Blood Pressure & Glucose Clinic

Wed, June 17th 9:00am - 11:00am

Join us for our free monthly blood pressure and glucose screenings. No appointment necessary. Provided by Seekonk’s Public Health Nurse.

Let’s Learn Together! Learn from Experience: Discover GetSetUp

Tuesday, June 23, 2026 at 2:30pm

Discover GetSetUp, a free online learning platform featuring live, interactive classes led by presenters age 55+. From technology and wellness to hobbies and lifelong learning, GetSetUp offers engaging sessions designed to build skills, spark curiosity, and

foster connection. Join us to see how easy it is to get started and find classes that fit your interests, all free with your Seekonk Library card. Bring your library card and email address to get started. Preregistration is required.

Indoor Cornhole

Mondays at 10:30am

Come play cornhole on Monday mornings. All are welcome. Preregistration is required.

Backgammon & Checkers

Tuesdays at 2:00pm

Players move their checkers around the board according to rolls of the dice and the first player to get all their checkers off is the winner. The fun comes from hitting and blocking your opponent’s checkers to impede their progress. This is a game of odds, calculation, patterns, and vision. Whether you are a seasoned Backgammon player or would like to learn how to play, please join us! To win a game of checkers, you must jump your checkers over all your opponent’s pieces or block their pieces so they can no longer make a move. Preregistration is required.

Learning Mahjong

Thursdays - 10:00am - 12:00pm

Have you ever been mesmerized by the clinking of Mahjong tiles or the camaraderie of players around a table? Learning Mahjong is more than just mastering a game - it’s about embracing a rich tradition and connecting with others. Come to our Senior Center to start this exciting journey and dive into this centuries-old game of skill and strategy. Preregistration is required.

Tuesday Luncheon 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 menu is available at our office and on our Facebook page.

“Neil Diamond” Presentation

by Richard King

Wed, July 6, 2026 at 1:00pm

Join Richard King, Media Historian, and clap and wave your arms and sing along with “American” and “Sweet Caroline.” He will present information about Neil Diamond a singersongwriter who started his career writing songs while studying at New York University. He wrote songs like “Sweet Caroline”, “America”, “Heart Light” and “Crackling Rosie.” Neil also wrote “I’m a Believer” performed by The Monkees. “Sweet Caroline” was inspired by Caroline Kennedy the daughter of John F. Kennedy. Neil’s album from the movie “The Jazz Singer” sold more than 5 million copies. Preregistration is required and opens June 15.

Through the Years of Country Music

By Michael Higgins

Wed, July 8, 2026 at 1:00pm

Join us for, Through the Years of Country music. Michael Higgins will be preforming songs like George Strait’s, “Amarillo by Morning” and “You Look So Good In Love”, Dwight continued on next page...

Yoakam’s “You’re the

and opens June 15.

Hearing Clinic

Mon, July 13, 2026 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Lauren Warburton from At Home Hearing Healthcare will be here for a hearing clinic. They specialize in detecting and resolving issues with hearing loss. Individuals will be advised regarding the next steps for pursuing proper treatment. They do accept MassHealth. Preregistration is required and opens June 15.

Mind-Body Wellness Presentation

Monday, July 13, 2026 at 2:00pm

Mind-Body Wellness is a holistic approach to health that acknowledges the profound connection between an individual’s mental and physical well-being. Come join us for a presentation hosted by Lisa Valente, RN, CDOE and presented by Michelle Friedberg, MS, GNP-BC, NP-C who is a SMART-Certified Healthcare Practitioner with Mindful H.E.A.R.T and Benson-Henry Institute at Massachusetts General Hospital. Preregistration is required and opens June 15.

Classic Country Show

by Bill Reidy

Wed, July 15, 2026 at 1:00pm

Join us in listening to singer-guitarist Bill Reidy who offers an entertaining one-man show. He will be singing great classic country music songs from the 1950’s to 1970’s. Songs that were sung by, Hank Williams, Johnny Cash, Eddy Arnold, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, Kris Kristofferson, Kenny Rogers and more! Preregistration is required and opens June 15.

Gray Seals and Great White Sharks

Mon, July 20th 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Follow seal researchers as they capture and sample newborn gray seal pups on the Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge and Wilderness area south of Chatham. Witness the first documentation of this species mating in The United States, and learn about the seals complete life history while in New England. Great white sharks have been returning in ever increasing numbers to hunt their favorite snack - gray seals. Exclusive underwater photographs provided courtesy of the MA Division of Marine Fisheries and the Great White Shark Consortium show this apex predator in Cape Cod waters. Preregistration is required and opens June 15.

Book Club

Tuesday, July 21, 2026 at 10:00am

Come join the discussion of, The Lies They Told by Ellen Marie Wiseman. When widespread support for policies of prejudice drove imprisonment and forced sterilizations based on class, race, disability, education and country of origin. In this tragic and uplifting novel of social injustice, survival and hope. The group will be led with discussion questions, but feel free to bring you own. Preregistration is required and opens June 15.

Larry Houser - Team Trivia

Monday, July 22, 2026 at 1:00pm

Come join Larry Houser for Team Trivia! Not-so-hard questions about just about everything - movies, music, animals, old expressions, advertising from the 1960s and 70s. Come as a team of 2, 3 or 4 or come alone and we’ll find a team for you! Prizes to all players on the winning team. Preregistration is required and opens June 15.

Advance Planning for End of Life by Sara Collins

Monday, July 27, 2026 at 1:00pm

Please join the staff of William W. Tripp & Cheetham Funeral Homes for a free educational presentation on the advantages of planning in advance. Advance planning protects your loved ones from stress and financial burden during some of the most emotional moments of their lives. They make it simple to give your family the gift of peace of mind knowing that everything is taken care of. Preregistration is required and opens June 15.

4th Annual Men’s Barbecue

Wed, July 29, 2026 at 12:00pm

Join us for our barbecue party honoring Seekonk men age 60 and older at Seekonk Human Services, 540 Arcade Avenue

More details to follow. Preregistration Opens June 15 and ends July 22.

Seekonk Fire Department Senior SAFE Program

Senior SAFE is a program that supports fire and life safety education for seniors. Education is key to improving the safety of seniors at home. What we do? (1) provide and install smoke and CO alarms, (2) provide and install lock boxes, (3) Provide and install blue house numbers, (4) bucket brigade –provide salt/sand mix for home use, (5) file of life – provide a medical information packet. Who’s qualified? Seekonk residents 65+ who own or permanently live in their home. For more information about what we do and resources available, contact any Human Services employee or email Klaprade@ SeekonkFire-MA.gov

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 8:30am

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

Games

Play an old favorite or learn something new!

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

• Backgammon & Checkers - Tuesdays at 2pm.

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

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

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

• BINGO - Thurs 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

The center is open Monday -Thursday 8:15am - 4:00pm and Friday 8:15am12:00pm. 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. 2 Apartments Currently Available!

The Seekonk High School Spanish Club, led by Spanish teacher and advisor Señora Taylor Brillon, has developed a meaningful intergenerational friendship with 102-yearold WWII veteran and local hero Mr. Soule through its long-standing community service work and Veterans Leaf Rake initiative.

The Veterans Leaf Rake, started by Seekonk High School Vice Principal Mr. Bosh five years ago, brings students together each Fall to assist local veterans with yard clean-up. The Seekonk High School Spanish Club has participated in this initiative since its inception, proudly taking part each year in support of area veterans.

Through this program, members of the Spanish Club Executive Board met Mr. Soule two years ago, and a lasting relationship quickly formed. Since that time, the executive board has continued to visit him regularly and maintain an ongoing connection that has grown well beyond the original service project.

The executive board, along with Señora Brillon, has shared countless meaningful moments with Mr. Soule—spending time at his home listening to his stories and building a connection over coffee, hot chocolate, donuts and cookies. Spanish Club executive board members exchanged Christmas cards, pen pal letters, surprised him with lunch at one of his favorite local restaurants (special thank you to Micheletti’s) and simply enjoyed the gift of time together. What began as an act of service has naturally grown into a genuine and deeply valued friendship.

In addition to the executive board’s continued involvement, the entire Spanish Club participates annually in the Veterans Leaf Rake each November, supporting local veterans throughout the community.

To honor Mr. Soule, Spanish Club students along with Executive Board members contributed personal messages to a special book titled 102 Things Seekonk High School Spanish Club Loves About Mr. Soule, which was presented during their June monthly visit. On this special occasion, the graduating senior members of the executive board, just before embarking on their college journeys, took photos in their caps and gowns as they delivered the book and shared their goodbyes for now with Mr. Soule.

While this connection began through a school service project, it has become something far more meaningful to both students and their advisor. Mr. Soule has impacted the lives of SHS Spanish Club members in lasting ways, teaching them the value of

slowing down, listening, and truly seeing the people in their community. Mr.Soule’s stories, kindness, and presence have left a lasting impression on every student who has had the privilege of spending time with him.

What has grown between Mr. Soule, Señora Brillon and the Seekonk High School Spanish Club is not just a tradition of service, but a profound and enduring bond—one that has shaped how students understand gratitude, respect, and the power of human connection.

Marriage Announcement

Jeremy Beliveau Weds Rose Hatfield

Jeremy Beliveau and Rose Hatfield were married on May 9 in Seattle Washington. Jeremy is a graduate of Dighton Rehoboth Regional High School. His parents, Judy Sheehan and Ed Beliveau are longtime residents of Rehoboth.

University News

SNHU Announces Spring 2026 President’s List

Manchester, NH -- It is with great pleasure that Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) congratulates the following students on being named to the Spring 2026 President’s List. The spring term runs from January to May.

Seekonk: Amanda Amaral, Elijah Bastien

Rehoboth: Courtney Olson

Salve Regina

University’s

Class of 2026 awarded diplomas at 76th Commencement

Newport, RI - On May 17, on the oceanside campus of Salve Regina University in Newport, RI, Dr. Kelli J. Armstrong, president, conferred 525 bachelor’s degrees upon the Class of 2026 at the University’s 76th Commencement. These local students were among them.

Julianna Anderson, Madison Mirabile

SNHU Announces Spring 2026 Dean’s List

Manchester, NH -- It is with great pleasure that Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) congratulates the following students on being named to the Spring 2026 Dean’s List. The spring terms run from January to May.

Seekonk: Jake Henriques, Briana Pangborn

Rehoboth: Joshua Pento, Zoe Strachan

Education Students Inducted into Pi Lambda Theta

Boston, MA -- Nineteen students from the Emmanuel School of Education were recently inducted into the Pi Lambda Theta, one of the nation’s most prestigious education honor societies.

Rehoboth: Caroline Reed

Seekonk: Julia Woodcock

Quentin Khan Added to Belmont University’s Spring 2026 Dean’s List

Nashville, TN -- Belmont University released the Dean’s List for the spring 2026 semester, with approximately 49% of the University’s 6,724 undergraduate students earning the academic recognition. Quentin Khan is among the Dean’s List students.

Madeline

Rossi among Mississippi State Presenters Highlighted at Spring 2026

Undergraduate Research Symposium

Mississippi State, MS -- Madeline Rossi, of Rehoboth, MA, is among Mississippi State students who presented at the university’s Undergraduate Research Symposium this spring.

Rossi, a senior psychology major, presented “Relation Between Adverse Childhood Experiences and Interpersonal Competence Mediated by Emotion Dysregulation Across Gender” in the Social Sciences category.

Ashlyn

Galloway named to Dean’s List

at Endicott College

Ashlyn Galloway of Rehoboth has been named to the Dean’s List for the Fall 2025 semester at Endicott College.

Stonehill College Celebrates the Class of 2026

Easton, MA -- Members of the Class of 2026 received their diplomas during Stonehill College’s 75th Commencement ceremony, held Sunday, May 17, on the Quad.

Rehoboth: Tara Alegria, Rosalie Martin

Seekonk’s Kate Leinson Graduates from College of the Holy Cross

Worcester, MA -- Kate Leinson of Seekonk received a Bachelor of Arts degree Cum Laude from College of the Holy Cross.

Leinson is among 803 Bachelor of Arts degree recipients Holy Cross celebrated at its 180th Commencement held on Friday, May 22 at the DCU Center in Worcester.

Jaelyn Souza Graduates from University of South Carolina

Jaelyn Souza of Rehoboth graduated magna cum laude in December 2025 from University of South Carolina with a Bachelor of Science degree in neuroscience. She is the daughter of Jared and Tracie Souza.

While at USC, Jaelyn distinguished herself through academic excellence, leadership, and research. She was a member of Alpha Epsilon Delta and conducted research in the Early Social Development Lab, focusing on early indicators of autism in children. She later developed an independent research project that earned first-place honors at Discover USC. She also expanded her research experience at Brown University, assisting Dr. Barry Lester with studies on neurobehavioral outcomes in high-risk infants.

Jaelyn is currently pursuing her master’s degree at the University of South Carolina while working toward becoming a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). She is passionate about supporting atrisk youth and individuals with special needs and plans to build a career in education and behavioral science, where she can make a meaningful, lasting impact.

Teamsters Local 25 Awards

College Scholarship to Rachel Albernaz of Rehoboth

Union provides scholarships to children and grandchildren of members and retirees to help launch their college experience

Teamsters Local 25 proudly awarded 37 scholarships totaling $74,000 to the children and grandchildren of members and retirees — the largest scholarship award announcement in the union’s history.

This year’s scholarships were made possible through the generosity and solidarity of Teamsters Local 25 members. The awards were presented during the union’s May General Membership Meeting in a ceremony featuring remarks from Teamsters Local 25 President Tom Mari.

Among the scholarship recipients is Rachel Albernaz of Rehoboth, a recent graduate of Bristol-Plymouth Regional Technical School who will attend Regis College this fall. Rachel is the daughter of David Albernaz, a Teamsters Local 25 member employed by M.S. Walker.

“We have the strongest membership in the country and among the most generous when it comes to supporting the children of our members,” said Teamsters Local 25 President Tom Mari. “For these students, the support goes far beyond financial assistance. Our union has always believed in uplifting the next generation. Our message to the 2026 scholarship recipients is simple: your future is bright, and your Teamster family will be with you every step of the way.”

Teamsters Local 25 also extends special thanks to the companies and organizations that sponsored scholarship awards: Feinberg, Dumont & Brennan; HILB Group, Inc.; Regan Associates, Chartered; Keches Law Group; Regan Communications Group; the Teamsters Local 25 Retiree Chapter; the Teamsters Local 25 Hispanic Caucus; the Michael C. Halley Memorial; the Joseph C. Conlon Memorial; the Francis Ciccarelli Memorial; and the George Rodrigues Memorial.

Since 2006, Teamsters Local 25 has awarded hundreds of thousands of dollars in scholarship funding to support the educational goals of members’ children and grandchildren. The union proudly provides annual scholarships to help the next generation of leaders pursue their academic and career aspirations.

Teamsters Local 25 is the largest Teamsters union in New England, representing 13,000 workers. For more information, please visit www.teamsterslocal25.com

Club News & ANNOUNCEMENTS

Hornbine School Activities This Season

On May 17th, several young girls attended our Felicity-themed Sewing Bee. Surrounded by the historic desks and slate boards, the girls stepped back into the world of 1774 as they learned simple hand-sewing skills with Dawn Azar, our director. They threaded needles, practiced careful stitches, and worked on a small project that echoed the handiwork young girls once learned in early Colonial America. Each girl created their own patriotic sachet called a “sweete bag” filled with fragrant herbs. They proudly shared their finished pieces, delighted to discover how enjoyable sewing could be. During a break, the girls enjoyed refreshing slices of watermelon and cool water — a treat that fit perfectly with the warm, relaxed spirit of the day. After sewing, the group played with several old-fashioned games and activities, the kind children once enjoyed long before screens and gadgets. These activities added a lively, playful finish to their historical afternoon. The event not only celebrated traditional skills but also brought the schoolhouse to life in a meaningful way. It offered the girls a hands-on connection to the past. The Hornbine Schoolhouse continues to be a place where history is not only remembered but lived, one stitch at a time.

Classroom Visits

Several 3rd grade classes from Sumerset, recently spent a full school day at the Hornbine School. Their enthusiasm was unmistakable. The students were captivated by the old desks, slate boards, and the feeling of “going back in time.” They took part in lessons, recited aloud, practiced writing on slates, and learned what school was like more than a century ago. They especially enjoyed having Richard Wheeler as their teacher for the day, whose lively, old-fashioned style brought the experience to life. By the end of the visit, it was clear that their day at Hornbine was not only educational but genuinely enjoyable. We are now accepting new class visits for the upcoming season, and we would be delighted to welcome more students to experience a day at the Hornbine One-Room Schoolhouse. Questions? - email Dawn at HORNBINESCHOOL@ GMAIL.COM

JUNE 7TH: Visit us at our “Hornbine School Museum table” at the Carpenter Museum’s Strawberry Festival from 1 – 5 pm. We’ll have a computer slide show, activities for the children and information about our “3 R’s: Road to Revolution in Rehoboth” activities this season.

JUNE 14TH: JOIN US FOR OUR HISTORY TALKS

Come learn some of the history of education and the Hornbine School here in Rehoboth. Enjoy light refreshments including a red, white and blue punch and cheese & crackers. Our ‘History Talk,’ is scheduled for 3:00 pm.

This will take place on flag day. The cost goes directly to funding our “History Talks” and is only $1.76! Please register today, - email Dawn at HORNBINESCHOOL@GMAIL.COM

Enjoy Our Displays

The museum is open from 2 – 4 each 2nd and 4th Sunday of June, July August and September. Visit us and enjoy our “3 R’s: Road to Revolution in Rehoboth” Search for our WEBSITE by Googling HORNBINESCHOOL. You will also find a link to our FACEBOOK page. The Hornbine School is located at 146 Hornbine Road, Rehoboth, MA.

History Talk at the Carpenter Museum: Family Ties and Industrial Bonds

Join us at the Carpenter Museum on June 24th, 6:30pm as National Park Service Ranger Allison Horrocks teaches us about the history of industrialization and textile mills in New England.

When Samuel Slater arrived in Rhode Island in January of 1790, few would have guessed that he was primed for success in the new United States. Yet, by the end of his life in 1835, Slater was obscenely wealthy, and his name was inextricably linked to the origins of American industry. This was due, in part, to his association with the Browns of Providence. During this lecture Allison Horrocks will explore the connections between Moses Brown, William Almy, and Samuel Slater. These men were among the early partners who provided ideas, financing, and just some of the labor that launched the American Industrial Revolution. Connecting College Hill and Pawtucket, this talk will show how family connections were not just convenient, but essential to the first generation of industrialists.

This talk is part of our 2026 program series which will explore textile history in connection with the Carpenter Museum’s newest exhibit “Woven Histories: The Art and Labor of Early American Textiles”.

The event will be held at the Carpenter Museum, 4 Locust Avenue. Registration encouraged. Register at https://industrialbonds. eventbrite.com , by email at carpentermuseum@gmail.com , or by phone at 508-252-3031. Please leave a message if you call outside our open hours.

This event is free and open to the public, put on with support from the Rehoboth Cultural Council.

About the Carpenter Museum:

The Carpenter Museum, named in honor of major benefactors Elsie Carpenter and her son E. Winsor Carpenter, is Rehoboth’s local history museum. Our mission is to collect, document, preserve, and share material culture related to the town’s history. We connect the Rehoboth community with these artifacts and with local history in general through our exhibits and programming. The Museum provides the wider community with research support, especially in the area of genealogy, and promotes learning about American history through direct experience with objects from the past.

About Allison Horrocks

Allison Horrocks is a public historian specializing in labor history. Allison currently works as a Park Ranger at Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park in Pawtucket, RI. Previously, Allison worked at Lowell National Historical Park and several other historic sites in New England. She earned her Ph.D. in History at the University of Connecticut and is the co-author of Dolls of Our Lives: Why We Can’t Quit American Girl. She lives in Lincoln, RI.

Rehoboth Garden Club June News

The Rehoboth Garden Club Annual Plant Sale Fundraiser took place at Francis Farm on Saturday May 2, and was a great success. Our sincere thanks and appreciation go out to our Rehoboth Selectmen, specifically Selectman George Solas, Tish Vadnais and the Agricultural Commission, Buildings and Maintenance Supervisor Mike Viveiros and his crew, the Rehoboth Police Department for diligently protecting our plants and property, Adam Latham and Skyler Hall of Bristol County Agricultural High School, Sousa Family Farm on Agricultural Ave. Rehoboth, and Frerichs Farm in Warren, RI.

To our club members who dug up their own plants to donate, and volunteered their help before, during and after the sale, and our many loyal customers who supported our annual fundraiser, we couldn’t have done it without you. All your purchases help to fund our scholarship, civic, and educational programs.

On May 18th, members visited the beautiful Kinney Azalea Gardens in Kingston, RI for a guided tour of their extensive gardens of more than 1,000 cultivars and species of azaleas in full bloom, rhododendrons, trees and shrubs.

Our June 15th meeting will take place at Ocean Hour Farm in Newport, RI. Members will be guided through a living example of sustainable agriculture and land stewardship that sequesters carbon, cleans stormwater, builds soil, and produces food and fiber for the community.

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

Thank You

The Rehoboth Garden Club Annual Plant Sale Fundraiser took place at Francis Farm on Saturday May 2 and was a great success. Our most sincere thanks and appreciation go out to so many town departments, individuals and businesses including:

• The Rehoboth Selectmen for their ongoing support of our fundraiser,

• Selectman George Solas, for all his assistance and being our biggest fan,

• Tish Vadnais and the Agricultural Commission, for their sponsorship,

• Buildings and Maintenance Supervisor Mike Viveiros and his hardworking crew for setting up and taking down the tables in the pavilion,

• The Rehoboth Police Department for diligently protecting our plants and property,

• Adam Latham and Skyler Hall of Bristol County Agricultural High School for consigning Aggie grown plants,

• Sousa Family Farm on Agricultural Ave. Rehoboth, and Frerichs Farm in Warren, RI for allowing us to purchase plants at a discount, and donating prizes for our raffles,

• Cristallo Spa and Salon, Chick-fil-a, and everyone who made gift donations and bought tickets to make our prize drawings the most successful ever,

• Our devoted club members who grew vegetables from seed, dug up their own plants, and volunteered their help before, during and after the sale,

• Our hundreds of loyal customers who purchased our plants. We couldn’t have done this without you. Please know that your purchases fund scholarships for local students and help fund our civic and educational programs.

Sincerely, Linda McHugh and Marta Caracappa, Plant Sale Fundraiser Co-chairs

Events at the Seekonk American Legion Post 311 Chicken BBQ on Saturday, August 15th

Come on down to the Seekonk American Legion for a Chicken BBQ put on by the Sons of the American Legion on 8/15 at 2 pm. $20.00 donation. Meal includes ½ chicken, corn, baked beans, rolls w/butter and salads. Advanced tickets available at the Post. Tickets also available at the door. The Post is located at 351 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA. For additional information please call 508-336-9822.

Upcoming Events

Please see our website for information www.Seekonkpost311.org

• Pig Roast in mid-July

• Fall Meat Raffles in mid-October/early November

• Psychic Fair on Oct. 25th

351 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA 02771

Seekonkpost311.org

508-336-9822

From the Small Desk of Paul Buckley

President Seekonk Lions Club

Hello to the good readers of this publication. This is Paul Buckley of the Seekonk Lions Club. As I continue to write about the great things Lions do for our community, I would like to share a short story about how the Seekonk Lions stepped in to help a local family facing a period of financial hardship.

Last month, I received an email from Melissa at Angels Care Closet, a charitable organization located in Briarwood Plaza. If you are not familiar with Angels Care Closet, their website states that they provide “assistance to families and individuals in New England in the form of donated clothing, shoes, toiletries, school supplies, and other essentials. They offer relief to struggling families and ensure that children can attend school confidently, equipped with what they need to succeed. They also support families enduring tragic losses or financial uncertainty.”

Melissa explained that a mother in Seekonk had reached out to them for help. The family had been struggling financially for several months and needed glasses for their children, but they couldn’t afford the cost. Additionally, the boys required eye exams for their new prescriptions. I requested the mother’s contact information so we could explore how the Seekonk Lions could assist.

Just a little background: if you’re not already aware, Lions are dedicated to helping people with vision issues. In 1925, Helen Keller, the world-famous speaker and author who was blind, challenged Lions International to be advocates for people with disabilities. She urged Lions to “constitute yourselves Knights of the Blind” and support the work of the American Foundation for the Blind.

Today, Lions are involved in many humanitarian efforts through the Massachusetts Lions Eye Research Fund (MLERF) and Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF). Funding research for diabetes, donations of funds to food banks and pantries, providing disaster aid to support recovery efforts are a part of the continued effort for local Lions.

Getting back to my story, within a few days of discussing with the family how the Seekonk Lions could help, I informed them that we would cover the cost of new frames and lenses for the boys. An appointment was scheduled at a nearby Walmart to get the process started. Within a few days, the boys were proudly wearing their new glasses…sharp, functional, and easy to wear. The mother told me her children were overjoyed and thankful for our kindness.

Moments like these rekindle the spirit of community service and remind us of the impact a little kindness can have on those in need.

The Lions provide many services in our area that deserve greater awareness. From vision and hearing assistance to support for veterans, youth, and individuals with disabilities, our clubs are committed to serving those in need.

With a strong network of volunteers and resources like free health screenings, eyeglasses, hearing aids, and community projects, Lions here in Seekonk and in Massachusetts are always ready to lend a helping hand.

If you or someone you know needs assistance, remember that the Lions are here as a caring resource, dedicated to improving lives and strengthening our community.

Lions of Massachusetts MD33 – Get Involved with Lions Seekonk Lions Charitable Trust Inc.

Nonprofit | Angels Care Closet | Seekonk

Thanks for your time. Paul

Lions Recognition Night Awards

On May 20th, 2026, The Rehoboth Lions Club held their annual Russell Latham Citizen’s Recognition Night Awards Banquet. The following are the winners for 2026, Left to right :

• Gary Silvia - Richard Noons Community Service Award

• Cole Giffard - Outstanding Achievement Award

• Sgt. Dave Aguiar & Edo - Randall P. Silveira Public Safety Award

• Molly House - Outstanding Achievement Award

• Kylie Smith - Outstanding Youth Award

• Riley Kazanjian - Outstanding Youth Award

• Amelia Trexler - Outstanding Youth Award

• Brooke Pento - Outstanding Youth Award

• Linda Sherman - Public Servant Award

• Jane Williams - Joseph Deroche Outstanding Service Award

• Steve Patrick - Russell Latham Educator of the Year Award

• Patricia Madson - Russell Latham Educator of the Year Award

Lions Recognition Award Recipients

Rehoboth Anawan Lions News

To the Town of Rehoboth; The Rehoboth Anawan Lions have decided to join the men’s Lion’s Club and we will all be known as the Rehoboth Lions. This was a difficult decision for the ladies of the Anawan Club. We decided that because it was difficult to find new members and officers it made more sense to join the men’s club, therefore combining our Clubs would be the best use of all our talents. Our hope is that in working together we can provide

more opportunities to help Rehoboth. We wish to thank the people of Rehoboth that have supported us for so many years; and we are grateful for the wonderful opportunities we have had to Serve in this capacity. We are thankful to the men’s Lions Club for welcoming us into their organization. i know that all of us together can provide the Service to our Town as needed. We already have events planned; the first one is on JULY 25th. THE GATLINS ARE COMING BACK TO REHOBOTH!! Watch for the ticket sales to start up soon! This has been one of the favorite fundraisers we do. A heartfelt Thank You from the Rehoboth Anawan Lions Club! We will continue to Serve!

Rehoboth American Legion Post 302 Public Events

• Try our Fish & Chips or Specials of the week

• Every Thursday 4:00 till 7:00 P.M. / Friday 4:00 – 7:30 PM & Saturdays with a Band ONLY 6:00 till 7:30 PM

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

• Mondays Only - SLOPPY JOES $2.00 ea. 3-6 with a Drink

• Tequila + Two Tacos every Tuesday 3-6 PM or $2.50 ea

• Wild Wings Wednesday 3-6 PM or $1.00 per wing

• Chew & Brew every Thursday 3-6 PM order a Pizza

• “QUEEN OF HEARTS” drawing every Friday night at 8:00 PM

• “PRIZE / CASH BINGO’s” 4th Sunday of every month @ 5:00 PM

• 2nd Sunday of Every Month 7:30 am – 10:30 am All you can Eat Breakfast for only $12 / Bar Opens at 10:00 AM

• “NEW POOL TABLE” Come and have some fun Events: https://www.facebook.com/groups/657024961125913/

Upcoming Events

• June 12th, 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!

• June 13th, 2026 – “NEW BAND” Saturday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M., THE WILEY BROTHERS BAND – 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!

• June 14th, 2026 – Sunday - 7:30 -10:30 A.M., American Legion’s Monthly Breakfast, Second Sunday of every month $12.00 donation - All you can Eat! Enjoy all the Food you can Eat!

• June 19th, 2026 – 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

• June 20th, 2026 – Saturday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M., – Live Music performed by Gutzy Right Duo Entertainment with Classic Rock Music – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Dancing & having a GREAT TIME! https://www.facebook.com/GutzyRight

• June 26th, 2026 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M., Sons of the American Legion’s Monthly Meat Raffle followed by Karaoke - 8:00-11:00 P.M. – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Singing, Dancing & having a GREAT TIME!

• June 26th, 2026 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M., – Live Karaoke performed by our own Devon’s 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!

• June 27th, 2026 – Saturday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M., “Vinyl Frontier Band” with Live Music Entertainment playing Classical Rock Music – No Cover Charge! - Food – Drinks – Dancing & having a GREAT TIME! Play some Pool! https://www.facebook.com/ Vinylfrontierband/

• June 28th, 2026 – Sunday -5:00 -8:00 P.M. CASH BINGO! American Legion Auxiliary, Fourth Sunday of every month $10.00 donation per 5 Games – Food – Drinks & having a GREAT TIME!

• July 3rd, 2026 – Friday - 7:00 -10:00 P.M., On3 Entertainment, Classic Rock & Country – 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! Shoot Some POOL

• July 4th, 2026 – Saturday - CLOSED

EvEnts & ActivitiEs

Narragansett Bay Symphony Community Orchestra

Join the Narragansett Bay Symphony Community Orchestra (NaBSCO), Rhode Island’s premier community orchestra, for a Season Finale Concert on Sunday, June 7, 2026 at 3:00 pm in the auditorium of East Providence High School (2000 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence, RI). Guest Conductor Thomas Kociela will lead the orchestra in performance of expressive works to end the 2025-2026 season.

The concert opens with the performance of American composer Ferde Grofé’s Ode to the Star-Spangled Banner. Being performed in celebration of the country’s 250th anniversary, this relatively unknown piece is a glowing, cinematic tribute to the United State’s anthem.

Following the Ode, acclaimed pianist Gideon Rubin will perform Beethoven’s Piano Concerto no. 5 in E-flat Major, op 73. Referred to as the Emperor concerto, the performance of this virtuosic concerto is a brilliant and powerful showcase of Ruben’s skill.

Following an intermission, NaBSCO will conclude the season with Jean Sibelius’ bold, dramatic, and deeply moving Symphony No. 1 in E minor, Op. 39. Written in 1899, this rich symphony evokes a range of emotions, from furious to sweet, through memorable musical themes.

Admission is ‘Pay what you think is fair,’ and tickets can be purchased at the door or online in advance. Please also help support the RI Community Food Bank by bringing a non-perishable food item. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit NaBSCO’s website, www.nabsco.org, email team@nabsco.org, or call 401-274-4578.

Community Baby Shower

June 13th at 10AM

Community Baby Shower to be held at the Swansea Free Public Library on June 13th 2026 from 10AM-12PM?

This free event is meant to support new and expecting moms, dads, and caregivers by providing educational support, community resources, and baby items! Join us as we celebrate growing families with the help from many local organizations!

Organized by:

• Lisa Valente, Public Health Nurse for the Town of Seekonk, MA & Regional Public Health Nurse with the Southcoast Public Health Coalition

• Desiree Harding, Public Health Nurse for the Towns of Somerset and Swansea, MA; and Jocelyn Tavares, Director of the Swansea Free Public Library.

Annual Meeting - Bridgham Farm Land Trust

Saturday, June 20th at 5:00 p.m.

The Annual Meeting of the Bridgham Farm Land Trust (formerly the East Providence Land Conservation Trust) will take place on Saturday, June 20th at 5:00 p.m. at the Crook Point Brewing Company, 65 Massasoit Avenue, East Providence, RI 02914.

The Bridgham Farm Land Trust is a private, non-profit 501(c)3 organization whose purposes are to conserve and protect the Bridgham Farm Conservation Area as open space and to promote public access to this 18.8 acre property located in the Rumford section of East Providence.

Membership is open to residents of East Providence and the surrounding communities of Providence, Pawtucket, Barrington and Seekonk, MA who pay the annual dues.

All current members and those interested in joining the Land Trust are encouraged to attend.

For more information about the Bridgham Farm Land Trust, please visit the website at bridghamfarm.org.

Genealogy Presentation by Bristol Chapter of Massachusetts Society of Genealogists, Inc.

Saturday, June 20th

The Bristol Chapter of the Massachusetts Society of Genealogists, Inc. will hold its monthly business meeting on Saturday, June 20th followed by a presentation beginning at Noon. This presentation is free and Open to the Public.

Join Somerset Reference Librarian Marybeth Rua-Larsen and local historian John Larsen to “Learn about Patience (Greene) Brayton (1733-1794)”.

Patience (Greene) Brayton, an early abolitionist, preached at the Quaker Meeting House in Somerset, Massachusetts (formally Swansea, Massachusetts). Born on 7 November 1733 in North Kingstown, Rhode Island, Patience devoted much of her life attempting to put an end to slavery. On 18 May 1758, she married Preserved Brayton

continued on page 47...

in North Kingstown, Rhode Island. Following their marriage, she managed to convince Preserved to grant his slaves their freedom.

Travelling around the country and overseas, she preached her message as a Quaker minister. In 1783, she arrived in England, where she tried (unsuccessfully) to persuade King George III to abolish slavery. Unperturbed, Patience continued travelling around England, Ireland and Scotland, preaching to whoever would listen.

Shortly before returning to the US in September 1787, she became ill. However, she continued preaching until her death on 30 July 1794 at the age of 60 years old. She was buried in Friends Cemetery, adjacent to the Quaker Friends Meeting House, in Somerset, Massachusetts.

Please join us at Noon in-person at the Somerset Historical Society, 274 High St., Somerset, MA 02726 or virtually via ZOOM.

Those who wish to attend virtually need to pre-register at https:// tinyurl.com/BristolJun26 after which you will receive an email confirmation with instructions for logging into this session. Do not share what you receive. It is unique to you. Closed Captioning is available for this presentation.

For more information contact bristol@msoginc.org.

A schedule of Bristol Chapter presentations is available at https://msoginc.org/chapter/bristol/ and https://www.facebook. com/msoginc

Metis Nation Craft Show

June 27, 2026 12 pm - 5pm Rain Or Shine

Christ Church

57 Main St. Swansea, Ma

Spaces $40 single - $55 double space.

Contact: Jewel for application and more information: Call or text at 508962-2803 or email pap628@comcast.net

From Edinburgh to London: Book Lovers’ 2026 Literary Journey through the UK August 8–17, 2026

A new cultural travel opportunity organized by a local librarian will take book lovers from Scotland to England in the summer of 2026. Edinburgh to London: A Book Lovers’ Journey, scheduled for August 8–17, 2026 will span ten days and highlight the literary and historical landscapes of the United Kingdom. Participants will begin in Edinburgh, Scotland, a city recognized worldwide for its literary heritage and vibrant book scene, before heading south to explore York, Jane Austen’s Bath, Stratford-upon-Avon—birthplace of William Shakespeare—and the prehistoric monument of Stonehenge.

The program, coordinated in conjunction with EF Go Ahead Tours, concludes in London, where travelers will experience the capital’s rich blend of history, architecture, and literary traditions. Travelers who wish to join a welcoming community of like-minded book lovers—sharing their passion for reading, culture, and discovery while exploring some of Britain’s most iconic destinations—are invited! For details, contact Suzanne Larson at SLarsonLMS@ gmail.com

EPHS Class of 1963 - The Last Hurrah!

Saturday, August 29 - 5pm at Davenport’s in East Providence

5 pm - cocktails, cheese and crackers

6 pm - Dinner Buffet

It’s hard to believe that we crossed that stage 63 years ago!

In fact, the school and stage are no longer there!!

Please send a check for $40 to Betty Davey Dulude, 10 John Alden Road, Seekonk, MA 02771 by August 15.

Ocean State Bluegrass Festival 2026

Friday, August 14th - Sunday, August 16th

Bluegrass fans and pickers: mark your calendar for the Ocean State Bluegrass Festival to be held Friday, August 14th through Sunday, August 16th at Frerichs Farm, 43 Kinnicutt Ave., Warren, RI. The event is sponsored by the Rhode Island Bluegrass Alliance (RIBA) with generous support from The Carter Fund at the Rhode Island Foundation.

The event includes:

• Friday night - an open mic

• Saturday - workshops and jamming during the day, and a show featuring four bluegrass bands at night

• Sunday - a Band Scramble and instructional bluegrass jam

• All weekend - jamming, camping, and food.

Bands to perform on Saturday night:

• Thunder and Rain

• JB and Cardineau Sin

• Simon Brogie and the XLTs

• Ernie Loiselle and Friends

Tickets may be purchased on the RIBA website (www.ribluegrass.org) or at the gate.

church nEws & EvEnts

Seekonk Congregational Church News

Sunday Services

We hope you will join us each Sunday at Seekonk Congregational Church UCC at our weekly service with Communion in the Sanctuary at 600 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk, MA . All services & church school begin at 9:30 and all are welcome. Licensed infant/ preschool day care is available every week. So, check us out in person, you will be happy you did. We do record our service each Sunday and you can watch it on Seekonk Cable Xfinity Access channel 95 at 9 AM each day or there is a link on our Facebook and YouTube pages.

Children’s Sunday June 14th 9:30 AM

Children’s Sunday Service 9:30 AM, come and celebrate our children and teachers. It will be followed by an all Church BBQ and Picnic from 10:30 to 1:30. Menu will include burgers, hot dogs, brats and all the fixin’s! Food will be for purchase and very reasonable prices and there will be an Ice Cream Truck for dessert

Outdoor Movie Night

You are all invited to the showing of THE GOONIES on Friday night June 26th, movie begins at 8 PM

• Open to the community, bring your own chair or blanket

• Free Admission

• Snack Bar Available for Purchase

• Park in either lot, Fall River Avenue or County Street

• Sponsored by Seekonk Congregational Church 600 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk

On-Going Mission Concerns & Needs

• Book Club: June Selection - The Mission & Social Action Book Club will be reading “The Other Americans” by Laila Lalami. The novel begins with a tragic event: Driss Guerraoui—a father, husband, business owner, and Moroccan immigrant—dies after being struck by a speeding car late one night in California. Following his death, a diverse cast of characters emerges, each telling their story in their own voice. As the narrative unfolds, connections develop among individuals who are deeply divided by race, religion, and class. Driss’s family confronts hidden secrets, the town faces its hypocrisies, and the unpredictable nature of love becomes evident. A tentative date of June 24th has been set for their discussion, which will be held at the home of Bonnie DeBlois. Call the church

REHOBOTH BAPTIST CHURCH

Rehoboth

• Sunday School - 9:00am • The Lord’s Service - 10:30am • Prayer

508-336-9355 or email SeekonkCongregationalChurchUCC@ Gmail for more information

• 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.

• FOOD PANTRY (in Porch Area) is for anyone you know who has financial challenges Needed: canned meats, tuna, Cereals, stew, peanut butter, paper goods, cereal bars, tuna pouches, crackers

- Check the expiration dates

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

All Are Welcome! We worship every Sunday at 10AM. 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.

Worship with us online at www.rehobothcongregational.org/ worshiponline

Annual “Name Your Price” Yard Sale

Saturday June 20th 9AM-2PM

Great finds at a great price (your price)!

Bring a canned good. We will be collecting donations for the Rehoboth Food Pantry.

Questions About Worship, Church School or Other Events? Visit us online at www.rehobothcongregational.org OR contact our Administrative Director at office@rehobothcongregational.org or 508-252-4545 (Tuesday-Thursday 9AM-1PM) 139 Bay State Rd. Rehoboth

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 this Sunday at 10 am.

Newman Congregational Church, UCC Announces

Community Craft Fair

Saturday, June 13, 2026 9 am – 2 pm Vendors from our local communities will be selling their handcrafted goods, including jewelry, quilted items, soaps, ceramics, wreaths, and more!

This is an indoor & outdoor venue and will be happening rain or shine!

Bring your friends and see what treasures you can find!

Newman Congregational Church, United Church of Christ is located at 100 Newman Avenue, Rumford, RI 02916. For more information or to reserve a table, contact the Church Office at 401434-4742 X10.

SCOUTING AROUND

Seekonk Troop 1 and Troop 9’s

Seekonk Troop 1 and Troop 9 Scouts had a busy month of adventures, community service, and recognition for their commitment to Seekonk and to Scouting.

Several Seekonk Troop 1 Scouts completed a 7-mile bike ride at the World War II Veterans Memorial Trail/Norton Rail-Trail in Norton, MA as part of their Cycling Merit Badge. During the ride, Scouts observed different species of birds, plants, and animals. During this trip, Scouts demonstrated their bicycle maintenance skills.

Troop 1 and Troop 9 Scouts were on hand at T.F. Green Airport to welcome home local Veterans following a recent Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. Three adult leaders of Troop 1 and Troop 9 were recognized by the Narragansett Council with the Golden Spark Plug Award. The Golden Spark Plug is awarded to volunteers who bring energy, initiative, and behind-the-scenes efforts to make scouting programs fun,

Excellent Adventures

exciting, and successful. The Seekonk Land Conservation Trust awarded Troop 1 and Troop 9 Scouts with the Mary C. Wilson Community Conservation Award. Several Scouts and adult leaders were on hand to receive the award. The award is in recognition of outstanding contributions to the natural resources and land in Seekonk. Scouts held their first fundraising car wash of the year. First Home Mortgage located on Central Avenue; Seekonk provided their parking lot to the Scouts for the car wash.

Seekonk Scouts placed new American flags on the graves of veterans throughout Seekonk in preparation for Memorial Day. Troop 1 and Troop 9 Scouts marched in Seekonk’s Memorial Day Parade. During the parade Scouts stopped to salute the memorial flag of Ensign Arthur B. Monroe. Ensign Monroe was a Seekonk resident, World War II U.S. Navy serviceman, and a Troop 1 Eagle Scout Killed in Action on March 25, 1945, in the Atlantic.

Scouts ended the month with a weekend camping trip to Limerick, Maine. Scouts had a very active camping trip with plenty of activities including fishing, water sports, campfires, games, and an outdoor movie night. Experienced Scouts spent one night camping on an island. Scouts worked together to transport their equipment to the island and establish a second campsite.

For more information about Scouts, contact Troop1SeekonkMA@gmail.com for boys or Troop9SeekonkMA@gmail.com for girls. Scouting is open to all boys and girls between the ages of 11 and 17. Follow us on social media for Scouting events, fundraising, and Eagle Scout projects happening around town: Troop 1 Seekonk and Troop 9 Seekonk.

Lightning Bugs, Bats, and Birds…Summer is Here! June 2026 Highlights

Start your summer off right – in the great outdoors! Discover some of the amazing birds, bats, and insects that thrive in the Ocean State. Pick up a paintbrush at the Maxwell Mays Art Studio, or bring family and friends for a guided nature exploration with your own Audubon naturalist. Audubon offers so much adventure in summer - come join the fun! Unless noted, registration is required for all programs. Register online and view a complete listing of programs through the events calendar at www.asri.org/calendar.

New!

Outside with a Guide Small-group Private Tours

Wednesdays and Fridays through August 2026.

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, Bristol, RI: Bring friends and family to explore the great outdoors with your own Audubon guide! Marvel at an owl or hawk in a close-up encounter, discover life on the wildlife refuge, buzz through blossoms in the pollinator garden, and explore marine life in the aquarium. Come wander and wonder with a naturalist at your own pace! Includes: Private Naturalist Guide – Close-up Encounter with a Hawk or Owl - Exploration of Trails and Gardens - Aquarium Visit - Options for Adult Only or Groups with Children.

Wednesday Morning Bird Walks

June 3, 10, 17, 24, 2026; 9:00-11:00am

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

Audubon Nature Tales Storytime

June 11, 2026; 10:00am-10:45pm

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, Bristol, RI: Join Audubon for our monthly Nature Tales Storytime designed especially for children ages 3 to 5. Each session features a nature-themed story followed by hands-on activities that connect the story to the natural world and encourage curiosity and learning.

Studio Soirée with Audubon

June 12, 2026; 5:00-8:00 pm

Audubon Maxwell Mays Wildlife Refuge, Coventry, RI: Head to the Maxwell Mays Art Studio where local artists and musicians will gather for an open studio. Bring your own materials to work in the studio or ‘en plein air while listening to relaxing music casually performed. Join other artists for an evening of entertainment and conversation!

Bats and Brownies

June 13, 2026; 8:00-9:30pm

Audubon Caratunk Wildlife Refuge, Seekonk, MA: Join Audubon naturalists for a sweet snack and relaxing walk to learn all about the little brown bat, a species that lives seasonally on the Caratunk Wildlife Refuge. Enjoy a spring evening on the trails and search for bats flying over the fields and pond. A wonderful program for families with children over the age of 10. Please dress for the weather, wear sturdy shoes/boots, bring bug spray and a flashlight.

En Plein Air Painting Workshop

June 13, 2026; 3:00-7:00 pm

Audubon Maxwell Mays Wildlife Refuge, Coventry, RI: En plein air is French for “in the open air,” referring to the practice of painting outdoors on-site to capture natural light. Artist Carol Shelton will walk you through an

introduction to outdoor painting. A short lecture will be followed by a demonstration before spending time painting in the beautiful fields of the Maxwell Mays Wildlife Refuge. (Rain date: Sunday, June 14, 2026)

Stamp & Sip Cardmaking Workshop

June 25, July 23, 2026; 6:00-8:00pm

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, Bristol, RI:

Let nature inspire your creativity this summer! Our adult cardmaking programs offer a relaxing, creative way to connect with nature. Create handmade cards inspired by the sea, coastal winds, and warm sunlight. Advance registration is required. Create three designs using a variety of techniques. Materials are provided and all skill levels welcome.

Purple Martins at Caratunk

June 25, 2026; 6:30-8:00pm

Audubon Caratunk Wildlife Refuge, Seekonk, MA: Martins are fascinating birds! Join Audubon for a presentation on these unique birds and a short walk to the field habitat to observe the resident Purple Martins as they roost in their gourd-shaped birdhouses. Watch other flying foragers like swallows and swifts as well, and if we are lucky, we might get to observe bats and owls. Please dress for the weather. Binoculars can be borrowed if you do not have a pair. Program is weather dependent.

3-D ‘Birdie’ Needle Felting

June 25, 2026; 5:00-8:00 pm

Audubon Maxwell Mays Wildlife Refuge, Coventry, RI: Join fiber artist, Gail Mitchell Slezak at the Maxwell Mays Art Studio as she guides participants through the process of needle felting. Create a sweet little 3-D bird. All materials provided.

Ice

Cream

and Lightning Bugs at Fisherville

June 26, 2026; 7:00-8:30pm

Audubon Fisherville Brook Wildlife Refuge, Exeter, RI: Just as it starts to get dark, the lightning bugs appear. Learn all about these amazing insects. Start the evening by making ice cream sundaes and a talk about what makes lightning bugs so special. Then head out for a hike and look for their flickering lights. If we are lucky, a resident beaver may be spotted along the way. This program is fun for the whole family! Bring a flashlight.

Bank of America Free Family Fun Day

June 27, 2026; 10:00am-3:00pm

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, Bristol, RI

Thanks to Bank of America, Audubon offers free admission one Saturday a month. Bring the family! No need to register.

10:00am-3:00pm: Craft Table

10:00am-3:00pm: Eco-Engineers Matching Game – Explore the world of eco-engineers at this hands-on discovery table! Get up close with real animal biofacts, match them to their mystery animal, and learn how these species shape and transform their environment!

10:00am: Nature Story

11:00am & 2:30pm: Animal Interviews

1:00pm: Nest Building Activity – Test your building skills! Learn how wildlife uses natural and manmade materials to build nests. Then build like birds and try your hand at building a nest that can protect an egg! For ages 6+.

The Art of Collage: Exhibit

by Tom Terceira

Through June 28, 2026; 9:30am-4:00pm

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, Bristol, RI: Tom Terceira is a collector of vintage images, illustrations and a creator of collages. He collects and uses photos, postcards, comic books, images and illustrations from old and forgotten books and vintage ephemera in his art. The art of collage (traditional and digital) lends itself to improvisation, spontaneity and the unexpected discovery. Tom begins with no final product in mind, but responds to the materials, finding images that resonate with each other.

Full Moon Hikes at Audubon

June 29, July 29, 2026; 8:00-9:00pm

Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, Bristol, RI: As the sun goes down, nature comes to life! Enjoy a guided evening walk under the light of the full moon as we search for nocturnal wildlife. Please bring a flashlight and dress for the weather.

LocAL FArms cArry on trAdition

The History of Farming in South Coast New England: How Local Legacies Continue to Live On

By Mikey Alves

History is one of the most fascinating yet overlooked aspects of life. In today’s younger generations, especially, many people fail to realize the significance of the land beneath their feet and the stories it carries through time. Every town, road, building, and farm, holds pieces of the past that helped shape the communities we know today. In a historic town like Rehoboth, history is deeply woven into everyday life, from its colonial roots and agricultural traditions to the generations of families who built the town from the ground up. While many residents pass these landmarks daily without a second thought, understanding the history of Rehoboth reveals how essential the town has been not only to local families, but to the entire development of southeastern Massachusetts.

At the Carpenter Museum in Rehoboth—they have plenty of local farming history. The Museum’s collection, begun in 1884, consists of over 6,000 objects, photographs, archival materials, and rare books related to the area referred to as Old Rehoboth, which was established in 1643, and included all or parts of what is now Rehoboth, East Providence, Seekonk, Attleboro, North Attleboro, Pawtucket, Cumberland, and Swansea.

Danielle DiGiacomo, Director of the Carpenter Museum in Rehoboth, said farming shaped the entirety of Rehoboth’s identity during its earliest years.

“Even in the town name ‘Rehoboth’- it actually means ‘open space’ - people came here to start farms. But when they settled

in the ‘ring of the green,’ there were all the families in the circle of the grazing land in the center. Ever since the founding from the colonists, Rehoboth has continued to be a farming community,” said DiGiacomo.

In 1641, the Plymouth Colony authorized a group of settlers, led by Reverend Samuel Newman, to establish a settlement on land purchased from Massasoit (Ousamequin), the Pokanoket sachem. Colonial leaders such as Edward Winslow and John Brown were involved in negotiating and overseeing land transactions in this region. The tract, later described as “eight miles square” (about 64 square miles) was given the name “Rehoboth” by The Reverend Newman shortly after their arrival. The name “Rehoboth” is a Biblical term, meaning a good place to pass through. This region became known throughout the Bay Colony as the “Ring of the Green” of Rehoboth.

Furthermore, DiGiacomo spoke about how farming in Rehoboth changed over the decades and what caused the biggest shifts in farming.

“The change was caused in Rehoboth the same as anywhere else—it changed just like any other community. It started with small farms where people were growing the food that their families would eat, to eventually larger institutional farms. You would need larger scale farms because food was being grown for more than just your immediate family,” said DiGiacomo.

DiGiacomo also spoke about the authenticity and historical significance of the Carpenter Museum for visitors interested in Rehoboth’s agricultural roots.

“At The Carpenter Museum, half of the artifacts we have on our display are about farming in Rehoboth because it has been such an important aspect of the town. A lot of our interpretation talks about local farming,” DiGiacomo added.

For those interested in history and museums, the Carpenter Museum offers a unique look into Rehoboth’s agricultural past. The museum is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1–4 p.m, located at 4 Locust Ave, Rehoboth, MA.

Local Farms Continue Traditions

Moonrose Farm

Even in the present day, numerous local farms throughout the Rehoboth community continue carrying on generations of agricultural tradition. Moonrose Farm is a small farm in Rehoboth focused on growing vegetables and flowers using organic practices.

Visitors to Moonrose Farm will find a selection of artisan baked goods made from thoughtfully sourced ingredients and prepared from scratch. The farm’s baking program focuses on simple, highquality foods, including naturally leavened sourdough breads, seasonal pastries, cookies, and other rotating specialties. Each item is made with care, emphasizing traditional methods and real ingredients.

The farm stand is open Friday through Sunday from 9 AM to 4 PM. Alongside fresh baked goods, visitors will find a rotating selection of farm-grown produce, including seasonal greens, root vegetables, and fresh-cut flowers. Inventory changes throughout the season based on what is being harvested, ensuring a fresh and varied selection each week.

Pasture-raised eggs are also available from hens fed a nonGMO diet. The farm accepts cash, cards, digital payments, as well as SNAP and HIP benefits.

Moonrose Farm also offers a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program, with limited shares still available. The CSA provides a steady supply of seasonal produce and flowers throughout the growing season. More information about share options, schedules, and pickup locations is available at www.moonrosefarm.com.

Whether stopping by for a loaf of sourdough, fresh pastries, seasonal produce, or local eggs, visitors will find carefully grown and thoughtfully made products that reflect the farm’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and good food.

Small scale vegetables, flowers, pasture raised eggs & honeybees 88 Mason St. Rehoboth MA 02769 www.moonrosefarm.com

Pleasant Street Family Farm

Welcome to Pleasant Street Family Farm—a charming, family-owned destination where community, creativity, and country life come together. Tucked away in the heart of Rehoboth, our farm offers a warm and inviting space for families, friends, and neighbors to visit and make meaningful memories all year long.

At Pleasant Street Family Farm, every season brings something special. In the spring, we come alive with colorful flowers and tulips, along with our much-loved Easter Bash featuring baby goats, bunnies, and chicks. Families can enjoy hayrides, scavenger hunts, crafts, and hands-on experiences that kids and adults alike will remember long after the day ends.

As the seasons change, so do the experiences. In the fall, our family-friendly haunted

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Enjoy the ambiance while walking through our luscious greenhouses!

ArAujo fArms

& Greenhouses (508) 669-6988 1522 Williams St., Dighton, MA

hayrides offer just the right mix of spooky fun and laughter—perfect for all ages looking to celebrate the season in a safe and festive way. When winter arrives, the farm transforms into a cozy holiday destination, where families can pick out the perfect Christmas tree, visit with Santa and enjoy the magic of the season together.

We also offer fresh farm eggs for sale, giving visitors a chance to take home a taste of the farm. During the growing season we offer watermelon, corn, cucumbers, squash, as well as other fruits and vegetables grown on site with no herbicides or pesticides. Future plans include a greenhouse for year round growing!

Alongside our food items, we proudly support local artisans and small businesses by offering a curated selection of handmade goods, sweet treats, and custom gift items. In addition to the main holidays, we have unique gifts and home decor for each occasion including Mother’s day, teacher appreciation week, graduation, father’s day, birthdays etc. From fresh floral arrangements to unique seasonal finds, there’s always something new to discover during your visit.

Visit Pleasant Street Family Farm at 187 Pleasant Street, Rehoboth, MA. See their facebook page and website, www.pleasantstreetfamilyfarm.com for upcoming events!

Brilliant Dahlia Flower Farm

Brilliant Dahlia Flower Farm has also made a notable impact on the local farming community, though in a more modern and creative way. Sharon Hoskins, owner of Brilliant Dahlia Farms, said their farm started as more of a “2nd career” decision after retirement. “We bought an old chicken farm from the Orr’s across the street from my husband’s family in 1998—and there’s acres here. We wanted an opportunity to farm, but we had three children, my husband had a business, and I had a career in federal law enforcement for 24 years. So, we started doing gardening and landscaping around all the old chicken coops because they were all kind of dilapidated.”

Hoskins said that everything changed in 2020, when it was time to retire. “When it came time for me to retire, I was like ‘okay, I’ve been bringing people flowers forever—let’s do a flower farm.’ It was a tough year because it was Covid and two of my boys came home from college. But, you know, every year the farm has grown. It started with 1,000 square feet and now we’re almost farming two acres. It’s all cut flowers and we have a tunnel—it’s an unheated greenhouse basically. So, we grow almost year-round but we have cut flowers for probably three seasons,” said Hoskins.

Open Monday noon-5, Tuesday-Friday 10-5, Saturday and Sunday 9:30-5

Hoskins said that their Brilliant Dahlia Flower Farm is unique given the specialty flowers they grow and sell to customers. “Like even the tulips, they’re not your ordinary single bloom tulip that you can get anywhere. We grow double tulips and we pick that day and sometimes get the flowers to you that night or the next day—so the freshness of our flowers is just exceptional. And you know where the flowers are coming from—they’re coming from our back yard. They’re not coming from a store or anywhere else—so I think that’s what makes it special,” said Hoskins.

In the foreseeable future, Hoskins said she hopes to create more opportunities at the flower farm by expanding workshops within the flower farm. “The continuation of working with students from Bristol Aggie, floricultural students that are in college—seeing their work and determination and people who love getting dirty like I am—it’s definitely a unique experience,” Hoskins added.

Brilliant Dahlia Flower Farm offers a seasonal destination for those looking to purchase fresh flowers and enjoy the summer weather. A key feature of the farm is its roadside flower stand, located at the top of the driveway and open on weekends throughout the growing season.

For those planning a visit, the Farm is located at 14 Chestnut Street in Rehoboth, MA.

Araujo Farms

Araujo Farms is a prime example of a family farm that has successfully continued their legacy, carrying the torch across multiple generations in Dighton.

Kenny Araujo, owner of Araujo Farms, said that his family’s farming legacy all started with his grandfather. “When my grandfather immigrated from Portugal to the United States, he wanted to go into business for himself. At that time, he had a background working in a foundry in Taunton, and he didn’t like factory work. So, they started as a dairy and progressed into a vegetable farm. Now we’re growing annuals, shrubs, and we still do some vegetables,” Araujo said.

Araujo said that their farm is unique because they always look to go above and beyond with prioritizing customer service and making sure they stay up to date with everything they grow. “We take pride in what we grow. We try to stay up with trends and try to give them [customers] the best plants that are available with the best genetics, while doing it at an affordable price,” said Araujo.

Looking toward the future, Araujo said his main goal is to keep the farm operating for generations to come. “Whether it’s passed down to another family member, a young couple, or a young person that needs to be mentored—something like that,” Araujo added. If you would like to visit Araujo Farms, it’s located at 1522 Williams St, Dighton, MA, open every day from 8AM to 5PM

Souza Family Farm

Souza Family Farm has long played an important role in the farming community and is known for growing top-quality produce and plants while traditionally focusing on wholesale operations. This spring season, they’ve featured a beautiful selection of flowers, including impatiens, marigolds, Gerbera daisies, geraniums, and other lively annuals perfect for brightening gardens and outdoor spaces. Early harvests include crisp lettuce and fresh salad greens, followed by seasonal favorites like summer squash zucchini, green beans, and sweet, ripe blueberries. Each item is carefully grown and picked at just the right time to ensure exceptional flavor and quality.

From colorful flowers and garden-ready herbs to farm-fresh produce, every visit offers something special while supporting local agriculture. Souza Family Farm invites the community to stop by and experience the season’s best, straight from the source.

Souza Family Farm is located at 33 Agricultural Ave in Rehoboth, MA, with Farmstand opening on Father's Day, June 23rd. www.souzafamilyfarm.com

Local Garden Centers Offer Expertise and More Personal Experience

Yes, Rehoboth is surely known for its farming history—but other local communities have some historical roots engraved in their town as well. They exhibit generations of hard work, local tradition, and the strong connection many residents still have to farming and nature itself in southern New England. Local garden centers provide not just a more personal experience—they provide you with the most natural, fresh, and healthy options for your family’s everyday food, while supporting local family businesses and workers. When you patron a local garden center, you’re not only supporting the community—you’re strengthening the community.

J & L Landscaping and Garden Center

“I would rather be on my farm, Than be emperor of the world.” ~George Washington

J & L Landscaping and Garden Center has been a trustworthy name in landscaping, gardening, and outdoor solutions since its establishment in 1977. With a deep commitment to cultivating the community, helping homeowners and businesses bring their visions to life, and being an integral part of Seekonk and surrounding areas, J & L remains just one phone call away from turning outdoor spaces into works of art.

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Operating as a full-service nursery, J & L offers an extensive selection of plants, soil, compost, and pond supplies, ensuring that every gardening and landscaping project has the essential materials needed for success. Customers can explore high-quality stones, perfect for hardscaping and masonry work, adding structure and beauty to yards and outdoor living spaces. Additionally, the business runs a loading yard, providing bulk purchases of compost, pine bark, gravel, and other landscaping necessities for larger projects.

Beyond supplying materials, J & L is also deeply involved in landscape design, installation, and maintenance, catering to both residential and commercial clients. Whether it’s creating an eyecatching garden, installing functional outdoor elements, or ensuring properties remain pristine with routine maintenance, the team combines expertise with creativity to achieve outstanding results. With decades of industry experience, J & L continues to set the standard for landscaping excellence.

J & L Landscaping and Garden Center remains a cornerstone of the local community, offering top-tier landscaping solutions and materials with reliability and dedication. Whether it’s a small gardening project or a complete landscape transformation, J & L is ready to help bring visions to life with quality and care.

Visit J & L at 363 Taunton Ave, Seekonk, MA.

Redwood Nursery

In a region where agriculture, gardening, and a connection to the land remain an important part of everyday life, Redwood Nursery & Garden Center has become a destination that generations of families have come to know and trust. For more than 50 years, Redwood Nursery has served gardeners throughout Swansea, southeastern Massachusetts, and Rhode Island, helping customers create beautiful landscapes while providing the knowledge and support needed to make them thrive.

What started as a local nursery has grown into one of the area’s premier garden centers, but its mission has remained the same: helping people succeed in their gardens. Today, Redwood Nursery offers an extensive selection of trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals, native plants, pollinator-friendly flowers, Proven Winners selections, and organic gardening products. Whether someone is planting a single flower bed or designing an entire landscape, the nursery provides both the plants and the expertise to get the job done right.

One of the things that makes Redwood Nursery stand out is its people. Owners Manny and Jacqueline Vales, along with their dedicated and knowledgeable team, have built a reputation for exceptional customer service and horticultural expertise. Manny brings more than 45 years of experience to the business, and that knowledge is reflected throughout the nursery. Customers aren’t simply purchasing plants—they’re receiving advice from professionals who understand local growing conditions and genuinely want to see their gardens succeed.

In an age when many shoppers turn to big-box retailers, Redwood Nursery continues to offer something different: personalized service, carefully selected plant material, and a true passion for gardening. It’s a place where questions are welcomed, expertise is shared, and customers leave with the confidence to grow something beautiful.

After more than five decades in business, Redwood Nursery remains a proud part of the local gardening community and a reminder that quality, knowledge, and personal service never go out of style.

Redwood Nursery is located at 2664 GAR Highway, Swansea, MA.

Bay State Pet and Garden Supply

Bay State Pet and Garden Supply is a trusted destination for high-quality lawn, garden, and pet care products. Proudly serving both homeowners and professional landscapers, Bay State offers a comprehensive range of supplies designed to meet every outdoor need.

From premium soil, mulch, and fertilizers to healthy plants and reliable pest control solutions, Bay State provides the materials and guidance to help customers maintain vibrant, healthy landscapes. For those still managing their lawn this June, the store carries expertgrade Jonathan Green products - ideal for achieving professional results. Bay State also provides professional soil analysis testing, helping customers understand their soil’s pH levels and nutrient needs to ensure optimal plant growth. For larger projects, bulk delivery of mulch, loam, and stone is available.

In addition to lawn care, Bay State offers solutions for insect and mosquito control, as well as fly control products designed to protect animals in barn and farm settings. Their knowledgeable staff is available to offer expert advice on identifying weeds, diagnosing pest issues, and selecting the safest and most effective treatment methods.

Bay State Pet and Garden Supply remains committed to providing top-tier products, personalized service, and dependable solutions for every level of outdoor care. The store is open seven days a week: Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Customers may also place orders online or schedule deliveries through their website: www.baystatepet.com.

Bay State Pet and Garden Supply is located at 429 Winthrop Street in Taunton, MA

Seekonk Public Library

Summer Concert Series in The Seekonk Meadows

It’s almost time to kick off the Seekonk Library Summer Concert Series in the Meadows! Take a look at our schedule of performers, get your picnic blanket or camp chair out of winter storage, and make sure to register! In the event of inclement weather, all performances will take place in the library’s meeting room, where seating is limited. All concerts are generously sponsored by the Friends of the Seekonk Public library.

BILL HARLEY

Thursday, June 25 at 6:00 PM

A two-time Grammy award-winning artist and recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award from the RI Council for the Humanities, Bill uses song and story to paint a vibrant and hilarious picture of growing up, schooling, and family life.

THE JESSE LIAM BAND

Tuesday, July 21 at 6:00 PM

A high energy concert featuring a mix of original material and a deep catalog of popular, upbeat, harmony-based selections.

HUNGRYTOWN

Tuesday, July 28 at 6:00 PM

Hungrytown is the artistic collaboration of songwriter Rebecca Hall and multi-instrumentalist Ken Anderson. Their music blends traditional folk roots with close harmonies and carefully crafted acoustic arrangements. Shaped by years of international touring and a deep devotion to the craft, their live performances offer an intimate, attentive listening experience.

Cultural Workshop

Wednesday, June 10 at 6 PM

Join us at Seekonk Public Library for a unique and inspiring cultural experience! On Wednesday, June 10 at 6 PM, adults are invited to attend “Elegant Draping: How to Wear a Saree,” a handson presentation from an area resident exploring the timeless beauty and tradition of the Indian saree, also spelled “sari.” This program is free and open to the public. For planning purposes and to receive program updates, please register in the online Events Calendar at www.seekonkpl.org/events.

More than just a garment, the saree is a cultural symbol that is rich in history, identity, and artistry. In this program, you will learn about saree-wearing traditions and the many draping styles highlighting the garment’s elegance and versatility. You’ll get to experience the intricate details of wearing a saree with a live demonstration. Whether you’re curious about global fashion, interested in South Asian culture, or simply want to appreciate this iconic style, this program offers something for everyone. Come celebrate global traditions and learn how a length of fabric becomes a work of art — one graceful fold at a time.

For more information or for help with registration, call Adult Services at 508-336-8230 x56130 or email library@seekonkpl.org

Learn About Bokashi Composting for All Foods and Small Spaces

Thursday, June 11 at 6 PM

If you’ve found the food sorting for traditional composting to be too much of a chore to maintain, this could be for you! Learn an easy and effective method for reducing household food waste at “Bokashi Composting 101: Less Space, Less Waste” at Seekonk Library on June 11 at 6 PM. This informative presentation provided by Epic Renewal will introduce you to bokashi composting, a fermentation-based process that turns everyday kitchen scraps, including meat and dairy, into nutrient-rich soil—without requiring a large outdoor setup.

Ideal for apartment dwellers, busy households, and anyone interested in sustainable living, bokashi composting offers a compact, low-maintenance alternative to traditional composting. Learn how the process works, what materials can be composted, and how to get started at home using a simple bucket system.

This program is free and open to the public. All experience levels are welcome.

Register online at seekonkpl.org/events to receive email in case there are any changes to the event.

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

What Do You Declare? A Creative Writing and Lettering Workshop

Thursday, June 18 at 6 PM

Seekonk Public Library invites you to reflect, write, and create in a special 90-minute program, “I Declare: A Creative Writing & Lettering Workshop.” Inspired by the approaching 250th anniversary (Semiquincentennial) of the Declaration of Independence, this workshop encourages you to consider your own values, aspirations, and voice through the act of crafting a personal declaration.

Blending thoughtful and creative writing practices, librarian Michelle Gario will facilitate as you use journaling exercises to draft a personal statement—whether it’s a declaration of purpose, identity, or intention. You will then explore basic lettering techniques to design and practice a distinctive signature, adding a creative finishing touch to your work.

No prior writing or lettering experience is necessary for this opportunity to write your thoughts on what independence, commitment, and voice mean in your own life today. Space is limited; pre-registration is required. Register in the Events Calendar at www. seekonkpl.org/events.

For more information or help registering, call Adult Services at 508-336-8230 extension 56130 or email library@seekonkpl.org.

Summer Readers Meet Up for Adults

Wednesday, June 24 at 6 PM

Let’s get together, readers! Whether you are participating in the year-long Massachusetts Book Challenge, Adults Summer Reading Challenge or reading on your own, come to the Seekonk Library on Wednesday, June 24 at 6 PM for a meet up. This casual event is a chance to meet each other in person because readers like to

socialize, too! We’ll chat about our favorite themes, books we plan to read this season, and more. Come enjoy light refreshments and games in this opportunity to share about your latest favorite book, any genre. Get ideas for titles to add to your To Be Read list. For planning purposes and to receive important program updates, please register in the online Events Calendar at seekonkpl.org/events.

For more information or help registering, call Adult Services at 508-336-8230 extension 56130 or email library@seekonkpl.org.

Grow

Ideas and Community this Summer with the Adults Reading Challenge

Online Registration Now Open

SEEKONK, MA – Ready to relax and be nourished this summer? Plant a Seed, Read, Seekonk Public Library’s all-ages summer reading program, kicks off on Wednesday, June 24. Adults can register at seekonkpl.org/events to see join us for the Summer Readers Meet Up on June 24 or reserve a seat for the all-ages Bill Harley Summer Reading Kickoff Concert on June 25.

This year’s theme invites adults to plant the seeds of information, stories and imagination with resources from the library. Whether you’re reading for fun, learning something new, or chasing a summer goal, this challenge is for you.

Choose your own adventure:

• Track books for a personal goal

• Log your reading minutes for our community goal

• Read, write a review and try new library services to complete the challenge

Get started your way:

• Use the Beanstack app or visit seekonkpl.beanstack.org

• Prefer offline? Paper logs available at the Research Help Desk starting June 24

• Participated in previous years? Use your existing Beanstack login

• The more you plant, the more chances to win! Adults who stay active in the challenge will be entered in ongoing prize drawings.

• Explore culture, history, science, health and human connection this summer; Plant a Seed, Read!

For more information, email library@seekonkpl.org or call the Adult Service Librarians at 508-336-8230.

Friends of the Seekonk Public Library

Thank you to all who have donated books and puzzles to the Friends and those who shopped our big sale on May 2nd, we had a very successful day. We raised $1,045 to support programs such as: Stitching a Nation,1,000 Books Before Kindergarten book prizes, Kid Librarian of the month t-shirts, BookPages, and Artful Pages arts program.

Due to our successful big sale and our daily lobby sales, we are accepting donations of books for adults and children as well as puzzles. Graphic novels for children up to grade 8 would be appreciated.

We are also always looking for volunteers who would like to help us in our daily and big sales. There are opportunities to help out on a weekly basis or as a substitute for someone who is unable to come to the lobby. Applications are available on our website at seekonkfol. org or by asking one of the volunteers in the lobby for one.

Teen Services Summer Reading Program for Teens

Tweens and Teens in rising grades 6 anup, it’s time to register for Seekonk Public Library’s Summer Reading Challenge! Log into the free Beanstack app to sign up for the “Plant a Seed, Read!” teen challenge and collect virtual badges for logging your reading, writing reviews, and participating in activities. Each badge earns one or more raffle tickets that you can enter into weekly online drawings as well as a variety of grand prize drawings. You’ll also want to come visit the library in-person for the teen programs listed below, as well as to participate in a drop-in scavenger hunt. Finally, we’re encouraging you to express your personality (let your style “blossom”) with a free flower-themed tote bag. Every time you visit the library this summer, you’ll receive a unique pin-back button to help you accessorize it!

Quest! Champions of Endhaven Tabletop RPG

Wednesdays, July 1, 8, 22, 29, August 5, 12, 2 PM

*Note: There is NO SESSION on July 15

Endhaven is the last green place at the edge of the desert - and something has begun to stir in the dunes beyond it. Six players, one Game Master, one running story that grows with the players week by week. Pick a class - bard, mage, hunter, inventor, rogue, or explorer - and step into a world that remembers what you choose. Run by Mastermind Adventures. Brand new to tabletop? Perfect — we’ll teach you the rules in ten minutes.

Sponsored by the Seekonk Cultural Council, a local agency supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.

This 6-session, 90-minute event is free and open to tweens and teens in rising grades 6 through 12. Space is limited and registration is required.

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

Improv Workshop

Thursday, July 2, 2 PM

Back by popular demand! Experience the fun of improvisational acting in this two-hour workshop. Deej Shafer of Kismet Improv will go over the basics of improv, then he’ll lead the group in some games and short scenes. No acting experience needed!

This 2-hour event is free and open to tweens and teens in rising grades 6 through 12. Space is limited and registration is required.

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

Harry Potter Trivial Pursuit

Thursday, July 9, 2 PM

Do you find yourself arguing that hippogriffs are cooler than dragons? Do you correct your friends when they mistake the Triwizard Tournament for the Quidditch Cup? Are you pretty sure you could have discovered the gillyweed solution if only you’d had the right book? If any of this sounds like more than Gobbledegook (Griphook’s native language, of course) to you, then come to Seekonk Public Library on Thursday, July 9 at 2:00 PM for the 4rd Annual Harry Potter Trivial Pursuit event for tweens and teens! We’ll split up into four teams to play the official Trivial Pursuit: World of Harry Potter Ultimate Edition and test our knowledge of all eight movies (sorry, it’s NOT based on the books!). Snacks will be provided.

This 2-hour event is free and open to tweens and teens in rising grades 6 through 12. Please register online at seekonkpl.org/events.

Call early for reservation

Party Rental Services

Moonwalks for sale or rent for $150 per weekend Tent packages w/ tables & chairs

20x30 - $350 • 20x20 - $250

Setup included • Free Rehoboth deliveries

TABELEY’S ROOFING

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

Crafts for a Cause

Thursday, July 16, 2 PM

Spread joy to kids in need by joining us for this special afternoon of crafting for a cause. Yiling and Angelina, two local eleventh graders, will provide paper, markers, paint, and a variety of other craft supplies for making homemade birthday cards. Then they’ll collect the completed cards and bring them to the Confetti Foundation to be distributed to kids all around the country.

The mission of the Confetti Foundation is to supply birthday parties to children who have to spend their birthday in a hospital, pediatric oncology clinic, or hospice facility.

This 2-hour event is free and open to tweens and teens in rising grades 6 through 12. Please register online at seekonkpl.org/events.

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

Teen Reading Cafe

Thursday, July 23, 2 PM

Come to the library for an afternoon of reading, writing, chatting, and snacking! We’ll have a variety of treats and beverages available, some soft background music, and a relaxing atmosphere to help you unwind. Feel free to bring a book, journal, laptop, etc. and hang out with other bookish types like yourself.

This 2-hour event is free and open to tweens and teens in rising grades 6 through 12. Please register online at seekonkpl.org/events.

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

Mandala Dot Painting for Tweens & Teens

Thursday, July 30, 2 PM

Experience the calming effects of creative expression at this fun and relaxing class taught by artist Beth Goulet. Starting with a blank square canvas, you’ll pick your paint colors out of a large selection, and Beth will lead you step-by-step through the process of Mandala dotting while leaving time and space for you to make this a unique piece of art. This is a beginners’ class—no experience necessary!

This 2-hour event is free and open to tweens and teens in rising grades 6 through 12. Space is limited and registration is required.

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

End of Summer Escape Room Party for Tweens & Teens

Thursday, August 6, 2 PM

Riddles, ciphers, brain teasers--test your wits at this end of summer party for tweens and teens. In pairs or small groups, you’ll work together to solve your choice of mini-escape room puzzles from BreakoutEDU. Themes will range from the American Revolution, to Julius Caesar, botany, and more. Wrap up your summer at the library with a little code cracking, puzzle solving, and--of course-snacks and prizes!

This 2-hour event is free and open to tweens and teens in rising grades 6 through 12. Please register online at seekonkpl.org/events.

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

Youth Services

Kid Librarian of the Month June 1-30

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. The Kid Librarian of the Month is selected in the last week of the month, and their display will remain on display for the rest of the following month. If chosen, you will be contacted by email or phone. All applications will remain on file.

Summer Reading Challenge, Plant a Seed, READ!

June 24 – August 8

• Pre-registration now open

• Register at seekonkpl.beanstack.org or download Beanstack app

• Log minutes spent reading.

• Set a reading goal. The challenge is to read for at least 20 minutes per day or create your own goal.

• Earn virtual raffle tickets for logged minutes.

• Complete activities and write reviews to earn more raffle tickets.

• After 6 hours of reading logged, kids may pick out a little reward at the children’s desk. After registering, keep reading and visit the library weekly to participate in our guessing jar. If you have used the Beanstack platform before, there is no need to create a new account. If you need help resetting your password, contact childrens@seekonkpl.org

Plant a Seed, Read! Storytime

Thursday, June 11 10:00 AM

Ages 2 - 6 Kick off Summer Reading with a special storytime celebrating this year’s theme. Enjoy garden-themed stories and decorate your own pot to take home. Register. In collaboration with the Coordinated Family and Community Engagement grant.

Backyard Band Jams

Monday, June 15 10:00 AM

Ages 2-6 Join Miss Rhonda of Backyard Band Jams for singing, dancing, playing with musical instruments, and more! Register. This program is funded by the Coordinated Family and Community Engagement grant.

Ready, Set, Magic!

Wednesday, June 24 1:00 PM

Ages 3+ Join us for hilarious comedy, amazing magic, and LOTS of fun audience involvement with Mike Bent’s AbraKidabra! Register Sponsored by the Friends of the Seekonk Public Library.

Bill Harley in Concert

Thursday, June 25 6:00 PM

All ages. Kick off your summer with Grammy Winner and local favorite Bill Harley! Register. Sponsored by the Friends of the Seekonk Public Library.

Snail Trail Read and Hike

Monday, June 29 10:00 AM

Ages 3 - 7. Through stories and a hike, Farmer Sarah from Osamequin Farm will guide patrons through nature. Meets at Osamequin Farm, Walnut St, Seekonk MA. Register.

Custom Fabrications

Kitchen Countertops

Vanity Tops

Island Kitchens

CARLSON TREE

News and Notes from Blanding Library

Children’s Book Sale June 9-11

There will be a sale of gently used books for children of all ages June 9-11 during library hours, or until all books are gone. $4.00/ bag. Bring your own bag or get one here. Adults must be accompanied by a child. Check the library’s calendar for times. This event is sponsored by The Friends of the Blanding Library.

Reading Challenge for Adults

The Blanding announces the Adult Summer Reading Challenge. Stop in for a bookmark to keep track of all the books you read from June 15 to August 15. Turn in your completed bookmark by August 15 and receive as many chances to win a prize as books you read. Drawing will be on Monday, August 17.

Book Bedazzling June 24

Come try your hand at this popular and fun craft on Thurs. June 24 at 6:30. Bring a paperback book of your own to bedazzle. All other materials will be provided. Space is limited so call the library to register.

Two groups that meet at the library will be taking the summer off. The weekly history discussion group led by Hank Coleman will take a break this summer and resume meeting at 11 on Wednesdays in September. The monthly Knit Night at the library will not be meeting this summer and will also resume in the fall. Monthly book clubs will continue through the summer.

Summer Garden Science July 8

The Children’s Museum in Easton will be offering Summer Garden Science. on Wed. July 8 at 11 for children K through grade 4. Space is limited so call ahead for reservations. Sponsored by the Rehoboth Cultural Council, a local agency supported by Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.

Story Hour Welcomes Carla July 9

Bring the kids to see author/illustrator Carla Marrero as she shares her well-known stories of her cats’ adventures. Several stories will be read, followed by a simple craft. Thurs. July 9 at 10:30.

Children’s Felting Workshop July 11

Join the Carpenter Museum at Blanding Library on July 11 from 10:30 to noon for a hands-on family friendly workshop to learn the history and art of felting. Email Chelsea Johnston at carpentermuseum@gmail.com to register or call 508-252-3031. This is a free event for all ages (8 and up) and is sponsored by the Massachusetts Cultural Council.

By Leslie Patterson

Spring into Summer Fun June 13

Come to the library on Sat. June 13 between 1 and 3 for some great family fun, with crafts, games (indoor and outdoor) and refreshments (allergy-friendly). Activities will be led by DRRHS students Addie, Heidi, and Bell. Fun for all ages.

Mini Big Top July 13

A circus show and workshop with Small But Mighty featuring CIrcus Celia and Little L, will be on Mon. Jun 13 at 10:30 to 11:30 with free admission. This program is funded by the Rehoboth Cultural Council, a local agency of the Mass Cultural Council.

Science Heroes: Digging It! July 20

Volunteers help us conduct exciting experiments while we celebrate all the scientists who work with dirt! Fun and exciting science experiments for the whole family on July 20 at 11. Sponsored by the Friends of the Blanding Library.

Kid’s Coloring Books Concert July 21

Bring the little ones to the library on July 21 at 10:30 for a halfhour concert of kids’ music with Sarah Martin, Nashville recording artist and local author. Sarah will present her book and songs, then kids will have an opportunity to strum her guitar, take pictures and purchase their own Rainbow Workshop Song coloring books. Siblings may attend.

Story Hours

Tot Time with Miss Joyce for children under 3 is on Tuesdays at 10:30 and Story Hours with Miss Cathy for children ages 3 and up is on Thursdays at 10:30. Siblings are welcome to both groups.

You can find more information and news about programs and events at the library on https://rehobothantiquarian.org/blandinglibrary/ You can also find the Blanding Library on Facebook or call the library at 508-252-4236. The Blanding Public Library, at 124 Bay State Rd., Rehoboth is open Monday through Thursday from 10 to 8, and on Friday and Saturdays from 10 to 4. Closed Sundays and holidays, including Friday June 19 for Juneteenth and on Saturday July 4.

From The Friends of the Blanding Library

The Friends of the Blanding Public Library gratefully accept donations of gently used books, games, puzzles, DVDs, and CDs for our 2026 Book Sale & Raffle the weekend of October 9-11. Donations in good condition can be dropped off at the library throughout the year until mid-September. Your contributions help stock this much-anticipated community event and directly support the library’s ability to offer engaging programs for all ages.

We also encourage you to support The Friends by joining or renewing your membership for 2026. Membership plays a vital role in sustaining our efforts—and as a benefit, members receive early access to the Book Sale & Raffle during a special preview the evening before the event opens to the public.

** Membership Donations can be mailed to The Friends of The Blanding Library, PO Box 464, Rehoboth, MA 02769

** Good condition books, games, puzzles, DVDs, and CDs, can be brought at any time to The Blanding Library to support the 2026 Book Sale & Raffle.

D-R & Seekonk Final Push of Sports

Season:

Falcons and Warriors Chase State Glory

By Mikey Alves

As the 2025-26 school year comes to a close, numerous local teams look to make a statement at the end of this spring season. Especially with seniors giving it their last go in their high school sports careers—each sports program within the communities of Seekonk and Dighton-Rehoboth look to battle for and hopefully claim… an MIAA State Championship.

D-R Girls Softball

The Falcons girls softball team are the #1 ranked team in the entire MIAA Division 3, and they look to three-peat as back-to-back MIAA D3 State Champions. Standing with a record of 17-2, this D-R girls softball program has been on fire as of recently, nearly going undefeated last month in May to conclude the regular season, and guaranteeing themselves home field advantage for the entire playoffs. The girls went on an eight-game win streak outscoring and dominating their opponents 84-23 in that eight-game span, which finally came to an end when they lost a low scoring, 2-0 battle to La Salle Academy on Saturday, May 23rd. With the girls earning the first round bye, they hosted a home game in the Round of 32 on Saturday, May 31st against Greater Lawrence—shutting them out 13-0 and are now on their way to the Sweet 16 of the MIAA State Tournament. Cam Cloonan led the way on the plate for the Falcons with 6 RBIs, 2 runs, and a homerun, while Edy Latour played lockdown on the mound for the girls, throwing a no-hitter with 8 strikeouts and allowing 3 walks in 5 innings pitched.

D-R Boys Baseball

On the boys side of the plate, the D-R Falcons boys baseball team holds a record of 9-8, finishing the season 16th ranked team in MIAA Division 3. The boys went 4-4 last month and had earned their way into a round of 32 playoff spot, taking on the #17 ranked Newburyport—losing a low-scoring 3-0 affair to the Clippers at home to end their season.

D-R Boys Lacrosse

With the D-R boys lacrosse squad, finished with a record of 4-12 and the 50th ranked team after a tough season, not making the MIAA State Tournament this year. But at the end of May, a member of the D-R lax team accomplished an impressive feat—junior goalie Charlie Rosa officially recorded 500 career saves to finish off the team’s regular season.

D-R Girls Lacrosse

Flipping over to the girls side of the D-R lax program, the girls fought their way into the MIAA Playoffs finishing as the 24th ranked D3 team at 10-6, including Gia Papa scoring her 100th career goal to cap off the regular season. In the preliminary round, they took it to Greater Lowell Tech High beating them 16-3. The game ball went to Papa for 11 points; 7 goals, 4 assists. While the game went to Imelia Berwick for solid all around play, and Sophia Cabral scored her first varsity goal (assisted by Gracie Pelland,

first varsity assist.) In their next playoff showdown, in the round of 32, the girls faced off against a top-ten ranked Division 3 team in Dover-Sherborn—being eliminated after a tough 20-4 loss. Reese Jefferson earned the game ball for her constant pressure on the ball in addition to scoring 2 goals. Phoebe Braga also earned the game stick for her leadership in net and 13 saves.

D-R Boys Tennis

The D-R Falcons boys tennis team finished the regular season 6-6 as the 34th ranked team but lost in the Preliminary Round to #31 ranked Amherst-Pelham Regional 3-2 on Tuesday, May 26th. The 31st ranked Hurricanes clinched the victory in first doubles as Tim Sun & Noah Magnus overcame a first-set defeat to earn its third and final point of the match. Set scores finished at 2-6, 6-3, 7-5.

Logan Silva, Trevor Jefferson, Abe Bonin, Drew Dagnese, Luke Moitoso all worked hard this year and provided key wins in various positions in the lineup as well. As a matter of fact, the D-R program’s first 8th grader, Mitch Ramos, played both singles and doubles this year providing key wins in multiple spots in the lineup and was a big key to the team’s success. While Junior captain, Ty Perry, and #1 singles player completed a perfect season of 12-0 (13-0) including our first-round playoff loss. He didn’t give up a single set all season with most sets ending in 6-0 and was unanimously named the conference’s MVP. Perry competed at the individual state championships held by USTA at Babson College where the top 64 players in the state from all divisions go to compete. He won the round of 64 but fell to the 5th ranked player in the round of 32. The #5 seed went on to make the finals losing to the #1 seed.

D-R Girls Tennis

The girls group finished the regular season 10-4 as the #22 seeded team to earn their way onto the MIAA State Tournament. In the round of 32, they were matched up against the #11 Bishop Fenwick—but dropped a 5-0 loss to conclude their season.

D-R Student of The Year & Month of May Awards

Female Dighton-Rehoboth Student Athlete of the Year: Reese Jefferson

A standout three-sport athlete in field hockey, basketball, and lacrosse, Jefferson has left an incredible mark on Dighton-Rehoboth through her talent, leadership, and dedication both on the field and in the classroom. Jefferson will continue her academic and athletic career at Roger Williams University as a member of the field hockey program.

Male Dighton-Rehoboth Student Athlete of The Year: Seamus Sullivan

Also a stellar three-sport athlete in soccer, indoor track, and outdoor track, Sullivan has built an incredible legacy at Dighton-Rehoboth through his leadership, toughness, and dedication to his teammates. From setting school records and earning multiple SCC titles in track and field to serving as a captain of the soccer team, Sullivan has consistently represented D-R with pride and excellence.

Male Student Athlete of The Month of May: Senior baseball player Jordan Castro

Recognized for his outstanding leadership and performance on the baseball team. A senior captain and four-year starter in the outfield, Castro has been a cornerstone of the program throughout his career and played a key role in the team’s success this season. Castro has committed to continue his academic and athletic career at Curry College, where he will play baseball for the Colonels.

Baseball stats: .339 batting %, .512 on-base %, and drove in 11 runs.

Female Student Athlete of The Month: Senior Softball Player Cam Cloonan

Recognized for her outstanding leadership and performance on the softball team. As a senior captain, Cloonan has been a driving force behind the Falcons’ success this season, leading both on and off the field with confidence, dedication, and an exceptional understanding of the game. Cloonan recently earned SCC MVP honors and her leadership, work ethic, and commitment to her teammates have helped establish the culture and success of the program.

Softball stats in May: .545 batting %, 12 hits, 4 home runs, 14 RBIs 17 runs scored, and 10 stolen bases; striking out only once.

Seekonk Boys Baseball

Traveling across the town line to Seekonk, the boys baseball finished the season strong with a win against, ending with a record of 13-7 and entered the MIAA State Playoffs as the #7 seed in Division 4. In fact, Seekonk’s star Cole Arruda earned The Boston Globe’s Eastern Massachusetts Player of The Week for May 14th-20th. The boys earned a first round bye into the round of 32 and punched their ticket to a date with Hampshire Regional on May 31st. The boys ended up taking down and shutting out the Red Raiders 4-0 with Javi Borges, Austin Robinson, and Brayden McBride leading at the plate for the Warriors with 2 hits each. Griffin Provost, Avian Da Rosa, Robinson, and Borges also had a run each, while Cole Arruda pitched a complete game striking out 8 batters and only allowed 2 hits.

Seekonk Girls Softball

The Seekonk Warriors girls softball squad capped off the regular season with a 12-9 record, claiming yet another spot in the Division 4 MIAA State Playoff Tournament as the 12th seed. They won 10-7 vs Cohasset on June 2nd and will play in the round of 16 on the road against Oxford, June 4th at 4 pm.

Seekonk Girls Tennis

The Warriors girls tennis team finished the regular season strong with an impressive 12-4 record and a handful of wins, punching their ticket into the MIAA D3 State Tournament as the 26th ranked team. They beat Pope Francis Prep 4-1 in the preliminary round on May 26th, leading to a playoff date in the round of 32 with a familiar foe… Old Rochester Regional on May 31st—but lost all five sets 5-0 to a consistently dominant ORR tennis program. Between the girls and boys tennis programs, ORR tennis combined for an undefeated 33-0 regular season.

Seekonk Boys Tennis

This Warriors squad finished the season with a 4-12 record but squeezed their way into the state tournament as the #30 seed in Division 4. But the boys lost a tough one 5-0 to a highly ranked #3 team in Pioneer Valley Chinese to wrap up their season.

Seekonk Boys Lacrosse

The Seekonk boys lax squad concluded the regular season with a 2-14 record, but still pushed their way into the MIAA Division 4 State Playoffs as the 33rd ranked team. Once you make the playoffs though—it’s a brand new season—everyone has a chance at claiming a state title. This boys teamed proved just that as they won in exciting overtime fashion in the preliminary round against #33 Hoosac Valley on May 28th 14-13. The Warriors were then forced to take on the #1 team in all of D4 two days later on Saturday, May 30th in the Sweet 16—dropping a crushing 19-0 defeat on the road to the powerhouse Skippers team to put a cap on their season.

Seekonk Girls Lacrosse

The Seekonk girls lacrosse team went 13-5 in the regular season and earned the 12th ranked spot in the state tournament. With a bye in the preliminary round, the girls faced off against #21 DennisYartmouth Regional—trumping the Dolphins 16-10. They were then matched up in the Sweet 16 against #5 ranked Lynnfield on June 1st on the road—but the girls were eliminated by the Pioneers in a high-scoring 22-11 affair.

Seekonk Baseball Awards

Seekonk High baseball named all stars and handed out other student athlete awards to the boys on the team:

• Senior captain, Cole Arruda (All Star, Seekonk Student Athlete Award & Athletic Warrior Award)

• Senior captain, Javi Borges (All Star, Seekonk Warriors Student Athlete & Principal Award)

• Junior, Brayden McBride (All Star, Seekonk Warriors Student Athlete Award)

• Senior captain, Austin Robinson (Seekonk Warriors Sportsmanship & Student Athlete Award)

• Junior, Colin Lush & Junior, Avian Da Rosa (Seekonk Warriors Honorable All Star Mentions)

With the last month of the school year now underway, the final chapter of the spring sports season is here. For many seniors, every game, match, and every single time they step onto the field or court—means everything. These moments represent one final opportunity to wear their school colors and leave their mark on the program’s history. Meanwhile, several Falcons and Warriors teams remain in pursuit of the almighty goal—an MIAA State Championship. As the postseason continues, the dedication, leadership, and perseverance displayed by these student-athletes have made both communities proud. Now, with state championship dreams still alive and seniors’ careers hanging in the balance, D-R and Seekonk aim to finish the year with one, final moment… of glory.

Seekonk Warriors Two-Time Memorial Day Tournament Champions!

DR Boys Varsity Tennis

From Paul Perry, DR boys varsity tennis coach

While we finished our regular season at 6-6, we have an entire team of young beginners who just started playing the sport and are committed to practicing and competing year-round to improve the team and program. We qualified for the MA state tournament and lost 2-3 to Amherst. Aidan Marquis is our only graduating senior this year. He provided some key wins at various positions in the lineup this year. Logan Silva, Trevor Jefferson, Abe Bonin, Drew Dagnese, Luke Moitoso all worked hard this year and provided key wins in various positions in the lineup as well. Newcomer, Lincoln Levisee, just picked up a racket for the first time ever this year and worked his way up the lineup to a singles position and provided some very key wins this year. Our program’s first 8th grader, Mitch Ramos, played both singles and doubles this year providing key wins in multiple spots in the lineup and was a big key to the team’s success. Junior captain, Ty Perry, and #1 singles player completed a perfect season of 12-0 (13-0) including our first-round playoff loss. He didn’t give up a single set all season with most sets ending in 6-0. He was unanimously named the conference’s MVP. He established himself as the premier player in Mass D3. He competed at the individual state championships held by USTA at Babson College where the top 64 players in the state from all divisions go to compete. He won the round of 64 but fell to the 5 seed in the round of 32. The 5 seed went on to make the finals losing to the 1 seed. We look forward to next season.

Please note:

At press time, results were not yet available for the following games:

• D-R Girls Softball vs. Wilmington on June 3

• D-R Boys Baseball vs. Uxbridge in the Sweet 16, played at home on June 3

• Seekonk Girls Softball round of 16 on the road against Oxford, Thursday June 6 For updated scores and results, please visit www.ReporterToday.com

10U Softball

Seekonk Warriors vs. Rehoboth Thunder

Our 10U Seekonk Warriors Vieira were undefeated all weekend until the 5th inning of the championship game (4-1). They battled so hard in the pouring rain in Rehoboth. Seekonk Warriors were runner-up to Rehoboth Thunder (5-7). Two championship games in only four days. We are so proud of our girls. Photos taken by Jennifer Pavlovich Photography.

Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School Announces Class of 2026 Top Graduates

Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School proudly announces Kaitlyn Arguin as the Class of 2026 Valedictorian and Laura Cruz as Salutatorian. Both students exemplify the high standards of academic excellence, leadership, and community engagement that define DRRHS.

Valedictorian Kaitlyn Arguin, of North Dighton, completed a rigorous program that included eight Advanced Placement courses, earning AP Scholar with Honors distinction along with College Board National Recognition. Her honors also include the Brown University Book Award and the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents Academic Excellence Award.

Arguin is an accomplished violinist, performing with regional ensembles and earning multiple selections to the Southeastern Massachusetts Senior District Festival. At DRRHS, she serves as President of the National Honor Society and Vice President of the Spanish Club, while also contributing to Peer Leadership and the Newspaper Club.

She will attend the College of the Holy Cross this fall, majoring in English with a concentration in Creative Writing and Music.

Salutatorian Laura Cruz, of Rehoboth, will graduate having completed ten Advanced Placement courses and the full Portuguese curriculum. She has earned AP Scholar with Distinction, the RPI Medal Award, and a perfect score on the Math MCAS.

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Cruz has been an active member of the Math Team since eighth grade and participates in numerous organizations, including the National Honor Society and several language and service clubs. A three-sport varsity athlete, she also gives back to her community through tutoring and volunteer work.

She will attend Rensselaer (RPI), where she plans to major in Mathematics.

“These recognitions reflect years of discipline, sacrifice, and commitment to excellence. What stands out most about Kaitlyn and Laura is that they are not only exceptional students academically, but also deeply involved members of the DRRHS community. Their accomplishments reinforce that at DRRHS, there truly is something for everyone, and that students can pursue rigorous academics while also thriving in the arts, athletics, leadership, and service. They are outstanding examples of the words we live by each day: #WeAreDR,” said Superintendent Bill Runey.

Principal Dustin Demers added “These two students represent the very best of DRRHS. Their achievements reflect our commitment to empower students, ignite their passions, and shape their futures. Kaitlyn and Laura truly embody a school culture where there is something for everyone, and where students are supported to reach their highest potential.”

Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School congratulates Kaitlyn Arguin and Laura Cruz on their outstanding achievements and looks forward to their continued success.

Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School Receives Massachusetts Early College Designation in Partnership

with Bridgewater State University

Partnership with BSU expands college access, reduces higher education costs, and creates new pathways for DRRHS students

NORTH DIGHTON, MA — The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District is proud to announce that Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School has officially received Massachusetts Early College Designation through a partnership with Bridgewater State University, marking another major milestone in the district’s continued commitment to expanding innovative, future-focused opportunities for students.

The designation, awarded jointly by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) and the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education, recognizes programs that provide students with structured access to authentic college coursework while still in high school.

Through the partnership, DRRHS students will have the opportunity to earn transferable college credits, experience the rigor and expectations of college-level learning, and explore future academic and career pathways, all while significantly reducing the cost and time associated with earning a college degree.

“This designation represents an important step forward in our ongoing commitment to shaping the future for our students,” said Superintendent Bill Runey. “Early College is about access, opportunity, and removing barriers. It creates real pathways for students to experience college-level expectations while still benefiting from the support systems of high school. We are incredibly proud to partner with Bridgewater State University to expand opportunities for DRRHS students and families. I also want to express my sincere appreciation to Assistant Superintendent Fred Souza, DRRHS Principal Dustin Demers, ELA Department Head Ellen LaSalle, and Coordinator of Dual Enrollment and Early College Rob Geddes from Bridgewater State University for their leadership, collaboration, and commitment throughout this process. This designation would not have been possible without their collective efforts and shared belief in creating more opportunities for students.”

Research across Massachusetts and nationally has demonstrated that Early College programs increase college readiness, improve college completion rates, and create stronger postsecondary outcomes, particularly for first-generation college students and students traditionally underrepresented in higher education.

“This designation is the result of nearly two years of hard work, collaboration, and a shared commitment to creating more opportunities for students,” said Assistant Superintendent Fred Souza. “Early College gives students the chance to experience real college coursework, build confidence, and begin seeing themselves in new ways academically and professionally. We are proud to partner with Bridgewater State University to create pathways that expand access while continuing to support students throughout the process.”

Students participating in the program will receive academic and non-academic supports designed to help them successfully navigate both high school and college experiences. The program also aligns closely with the district’s strategic plan, DRiving Toward 2030, by helping to empower students, ignite curiosity and learning, and shape future-ready graduates.

“Receiving Early College designation from DESE is an incredible milestone for DRRHS and a powerful reflection of our commitment to expanding rigorous, meaningful pathways for students. This designation will help empower our students to see themselves as college and career ready while still in high school. This is a proud moment for our students, families, and the entire DR community, and another example of our continued commitment to ensuring there is truly something for everyone at DRRHS.”

The Early College Designation further strengthens the district’s growing portfolio of advanced academic and career-connected programming, including Advanced Placement coursework, Chapter 74 Career & Technical Education pathways, innovation initiatives, and ongoing partnerships with higher education institutions and industry leaders.

Additional details regarding student eligibility, course offerings, and program implementation will be shared with students and families in the coming months.

Together, #WeAreDR.

DRRHS Launches Inaugural eSports Program

Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School recently launched its inaugural eSports program this spring, providing students with a new opportunity to compete and collaborate as part of a team while representing the school in competitive gaming.

The program currently includes eight student players competing in Super Smash Bros. and Mario Kart, with plans to expand game offerings in the future. During its first season, the focus has been on establishing a strong foundation through regular practices, coaching support, and collaboration with the district’s IT team to navigate the technical aspects required to launch the program.

“We are thrilled to have piloted our new eSports program this spring and are excited to see it continue to grow heading into the fall season,” said Matt McKinnon, Director of Athletics & Activities at Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School. “This program highlights how Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School truly has something to offer every student. Whether in the classroom, on the field, or in the arena, we are proud to provide opportunities that allow all of our students to find their place and pursue their passions.”

The team has already experienced exciting moments during its first season, including a thrilling 6–5 victory over Nipmuc Regional High School in Super Smash Bros., marking an early highlight for the young program.

Coaches Jolie Streeter and Christian Tavares said the program has already created a positive team environment where students support and encourage one another while developing both their individual gameplay and teamwork.

“The goal of our eSports program is to provide students with a welcoming, team-based environment where they can build collaboration skills, professionalism, and social confidence through competitive gaming,” said Streeter and Tavares. “It’s been exciting

to see students who might not otherwise join a traditional sports team become enthusiastic about showing up to practice each week and competing together.”

Although the team will not advance to the playoffs this season, coaches say the program made significant progress during its short inaugural campaign and is already looking ahead to continued growth in the seasons ahead.

“We are extremely excited to offer competitive eSports and have been so proud of the progress our students and moderators made this year,” said Principal Dustin Demers. “This is yet another example of how there is something for everyone at Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School.”

School officials hope the program will continue to grow in the coming years, giving more students an opportunity to participate while building teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills in a competitive and supportive environment.

Beckwith Middle School News

Students Earn Top Honors in Fire Safety Poster Contest

Beckwith Middle School students earned top honors in the Grade 6-8 Fire Safety Poster Contest, with two students recognized at the Bristol County level and one going on to win statewide recognition.

Macy Frissell earned second place in Bristol County, while Amelia Trexler was awarded first place in Bristol County for her poster design. Amelia’s entry then advanced to the state competition, where it was selected as the first place winner for Massachusetts.

The Fire Safety Poster Contest encourages students to promote fire safety awareness through creativity and artistic expression. Beckwith Middle School is proud of both students for their outstanding accomplishments and for representing the school and community so well.

Tree & Landscape SCHULTHEISS

Distinguished Student Award

James Comins and Jordan Steinkamp are the Beckwith Middle School recipients of the New England League of Middle Schools (NELMS) Middle Level Distinguished Student Award. This prestigious honor is especially meaningful because recipients are selected by their teachers from the entire 8th grade class for consistently demonstrating outstanding leadership, academic dedication, positive citizenship, and service to their community.

Rehoboth Lions Club Awards

May 20th was a great evening as the Rehoboth Lions Club presented their annual awards. Assistant Principal Amy Abrams and Principal Dr. Stephen Donovan were honored to recognize Brooke Pento and Amelia Trexler as recipients of the Outstanding Youth Award. These two Beckwith Middle School students are truly exceptional and represent the BMS school community with pride through their hard work, character, and leadership.

DRRSD Welcomes DESE

Commissioner Pedro Martinez

Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District was proud to welcome Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Pedro Martinez on Friday, May 29, 2026, for a visit highlighting innovative student learning opportunities and district programs across multiple grade levels.

Commissioner Martinez visited both Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School and Palmer River Elementary School alongside Superintendent Bill Runey, state legislators, School Committee members, educators, and student leaders. Throughout the afternoon, the Commissioner met with students and staff, toured classrooms and programs, and learned more about the district’s commitment to providing empowering, future-ready educational experiences for all learners.

At Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School, Commissioner Martinez participated in an Early College panel discussion with students and teachers, where students shared insights about their experiences earning college credits and preparing for future academic and career opportunities.

The visit also included tours of the school’s anticipated Culinary Arts/Hospitality and Criminal Justice/Public Safety Pathway programs, giving the Commissioner an opportunity to see DightonRehoboth’s Next-Generation Career & Technical Education Expansion that connects classroom learning with real-world career opportunities and meets critical workforce needs across Southeastern Massachusetts.

“Commissioner Martinez’s visit provided an opportunity to see the future of education in action,” said Superintendent Bill Runey. “From Early College students earning credits and gaining confidence in their future, to our expanding Career and Technical Education pathways, to the curiosity and engagement taking place in our elementary classrooms, the common thread was opportunity. These experiences are exactly what DRiving Toward 2030 is all about— igniting learning, shaping the future, and ensuring every student graduates with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to succeed in an ever-changing world. Given the demands on the Commissioner’s time and the many outstanding schools across Massachusetts, we are especially honored that he chose to spend part of his day in Dighton-Rehoboth. His visit is a meaningful affirmation of the incredible work taking place across our district and the momentum our students, staff, and community have built together.”

Following the high school tour, Commissioner Martinez visited Palmer River Elementary School, where he toured classrooms and observed engaging learning activities led by students and teachers.

District leaders said the visit reflected Dighton-Rehoboth’s ongoing commitment to creating meaningful educational opportunities that support student growth, achievement, and belonging at every level.

Runey, Martinez, and Early College students and teachers at Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High

Seekonk High School Class of 2026 Top Two

Valedictorian Delaney Carlsten

With high achievement in all academic disciplines, including 7 AP classes, 2 dual enrollment classes and 11 honors classes, Delaney Carlsten is an testament to what it means to attain valedictorian status. A member of both the National Honor Society and the Spanish Honor Society, and an AP Scholar, she is a true academic. Perhaps most notable is that she has been a model of authenticity, engaging in activities that resonate with her values and interests. From Model UN (where

she served as President) to Girl Up (where she served as President and Cofounder) to field hockey and unified track, she committed her time and effort. She accrued over 100 hours of community service, served as a campaign worker and also held part-time jobs.

Delaney’s grounded nature, humility, and conscientiousness, along with her ability to remain true to herself will be an asset at Lehigh University where she intends to study business.

Salutatorian Gabriella Gago

From the beginning of high school, Gabriella Gago set a high standard for herself. She embraced the most demanding courses available and approached each one with focus, discipline, and determination. Her academic success is the result of years of sustained effort and commitment.

That same mindset extends beyond the classroom. She has taken on leadership roles across multiple organizations, not as someone who simply participates, but as someone who seeks to improve, orga-

nize, and elevate every group she is part of. She is thoughtful, dependable, and unafraid to take responsibility when it matters most.

She balances that drive with an impressive level of commitment across all areas of her life. Whether in the classroom, in extracurricular activities, or in her responsibilities outside of school, she consistently shows up prepared, engaged, and ready to contribute.

As she looks ahead to the next chapter, she does so with a strong academic foundation and the same determination that has carried her through high school. She plans to pursue her goal of becoming a pediatrician and will be attending Seton Hall University this fall.

Class of 2026 Top10 Listed by Rank

1. Delaney Carlsten

2. Gabriella Gago

3. Jace Conceicao

4. Sophia Bo 5. Hayden Robinson

7. Katherine Eklund

8. Sophee Chen

9. Austin Robinson

10. Sami Cheng

By Joe Siegel

Seekonk High School’s 2026 graduation ceremony began Friday with 112 seniors in blue caps and gowns marching onto the school’s athletic track while being cheered by family and friends.

Principal William Whalen asked the graduates to be appreciative of their teachers, parents, and other adults who supported them through their high school years. “Whether you realize it or not, this journey has been shaped by an entire community that invested in you. It has been an honor for all of us to be a part of it,” Whalen said. “You’re not limited to one path or one definition of success.”

“Every person sitting here has something remarkable about them,” said Valedictorian Delaney Carlsten. “Live a life that is authentically your own. I hope we grow into people who are curious, rather

than critical, and view our differences not as walls, but as windows.”

Salutatorian Gabriella Gago thanked the Seekonk community who “constantly provided a safe and comfortable space” for the senior class. Gago gave special acknowledgement to her mother, who she called “my sidekick, my confidant, and the woman who made me what I am today.”

“Always do what is truly right,” Gago told her fellow graduates.

Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell spoke about the growing use of artificial intelligence. “AI can not replace what makes you human,” Kidwell said. “You build relationships with care and compassion. We need you, not an algorithmic manifestation of you, to lead us into the future. I am so proud of you and can not wait to see the future in you.”

Kelly Leinson and Sarah Rickard, representatives of the Class of 2026, shared special memories of their high school experience. The National Anthem was performed by the Seekonk High School Band.

Hurley Middle School Students Compete in National Civics Bee

By Joe Siegel

Eight students from Hurley Middle School recently participated in the regional round of the National Civics Bee held in Chelsea.

Aisha Imran came in first place, Shelby Schenk took second place and Jackie Leach came in third. For winning first place, Aisha was awarded a $700 check, while the second-place prize was $500 and third place won $250.

Imran, Schenk and Leach will now move on to the statewide round of the National Civics Bee.

As part of the event, Hurley students wrote essays on bullying, school funding, chemicals known as PFAS, and a fire station project on the south side of town.

Students then answered questions from a panel of judges composed of members of the Chelsea Chamber of Commerce, which sponsored the regional round of the National Civics Bee.

Topics included civic virtue, American founding principles, the U.S. Constitution, Supreme Court cases and American history.

The state level round will take place on June 11 at the Adams Presidential Center.

The winning candidate from each state will get a free trip to Washington, D.C., where they will compete for a $100,000 dollar contribution to a 529 college savings plan.

Rehoboth Antiquarian Society Scholarship

The Rehoboth Antiquarian Society (RAS) is accepting applications for the 2026-2027 second semester scholarship. A successful candidate(s) will be awarded up to $2,000. Applicants must plan to major in a field related to museum or library studies. This may include museum or library sciences, history, archaeology, anthropology, conservation, restoration, preservation, etc. Eligible students live in Rehoboth, or its surrounding communities, or have a significant connection to Rehoboth. Applicants must be enrolled in, or accepted by, an academic institution or an institution offering programs aligned with our mission for the 2026 fall semester. Eligible programs will lead to a degree or certificate. All applications will be considered on a case by case basis. Additional information and an application can be found on our website (https://rehobothantiquarian.org/rasscholarship/) The deadline for applications is Friday, June 19, 2026.

Bristol County Agricultural School Graduates

From Rehoboth:

Top 10 & National Honor Society:

Molly LaBrie; Vet Science; Rank 3

Molly majored in Veterinary Science and served as Secretary of the National Honor Society and a student ambassador. She participated in varsity volleyball and served as captain of the varsity basketball and softball teams. Molly will be attending the University of Massachusetts Amherst in the fall, studying animal science on a pre-vet track, and afterwards hopes to attend veterinary school to become a veterinarian.

Natalie Minster; Livestock and Dairy Management; Rank 4

Natalie Minster is graduating from the Livestock and Dairy Management program. Throughout her high school career, she played for the freshman and varsity volleyball teams, served as a student ambassador, student worker, and MDAR Ag Youth Council Member. During her senior year, she acted as a Varsity Volleyball Captain and president of the Bristol chapter of the National Honor Society. She has been accepted to and started a 5-month Stewardship program at Polyface Farms, VA, where she will spend her next few months learning the ins and outs of regenerative meatbird production and butchering. She plans to take what she learns through this program and pursue a career in Regenerative Agriculture.

Sophia Tavares; Vet Science; Rank 8

Sophia is a senior in the Veterinary Science program at Bristol County Agricultural High School and participated in the co-op program, where she gained hands-on experience working as a Veterinary Technician Assistant. She has been actively involved in FFA Dairy Judging, Student Council, Student Government, and the National Honor Society. Sophia will attend the University of New Hampshire this fall to study Animal Science with a focus on dairy management on a pre-veterinary track, with the goal of attending veterinary school in the future.

National Honor Society from Rehoboth

Sophie Bettencourt - Vet Science

Taylor Mayer - Vet Science

Olivia Nicholas - Livestock and Dairy Management

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!

Graduates from Rehoboth

Laura Breault - Floriculture

Kaira Connors - Livestock and Dairy Management

John Kelly - Natural Resource Management

Thalia Lopez-Turco - Equine Science

Trevor Marshall - Agricultural Mechanics

Charlotte Neider - Vet Science

Logan Pina - Arboriculture

Alexander Sarrazin - Landscape Design

Victoria Welzel - Natural Resource Management

Graduates From Seekonk

Emily Crowther - Agricultural Mechanics

Tyler Hoogerzeil - Agricultural Mechanics

Taylor Stevens - Floriculture

Bay View Seniors Complete Mercy Projects Benefiting Communities Across Rhode Island

Two Seekonk students create grief support group

Riverside, RI — Four student-led initiatives are among the 20 Mercy Projects completed this spring by seniors at St. Mary Academy Bay View. From the weight of grief to the power of giving, Bay View students are making an impact through peer grief support, 40 donated dresses, 16,500 soda tabs and women’s health advocacy, embodying the school’s mission of service, compassion, and faith.

The Power of Mercy Projects

The Mercy Projects provide seniors at Bay View with an opportunity to demonstrate their growing understanding of what it means to be a young woman of Mercy. Students engage in service that benefits people in need, inspired by the Gospel Values and the Critical Concerns of the Sisters of Mercy (Earth, Immigration, Nonviolence, Racism, and Women). Students are challenged to identify an issue directly connected to these values, plan a project to address it, bring that plan to life and educate their classmates about both the issue and their work.

Shared Strengths Grief Support Group

Seniors Ariana Bobiak and Nina Grace, both of Seekonk, launched Shared Strengths, the first student-led support group created to help students who have experienced the loss of a loved one.

The group grew from the students’ recognition that their school community needed a safe, supportive space for students to process grief and emotions together. To prepare, the pair completed eight training sessions with Jane Rocha, who leads a bereavement support group at the New Bedford YWCA for widows and widowers. As part of their training, they were invited to sit in on one of her sessions, gaining firsthand experience in compassionate, meaningful dialogue.

“Starting Shared Strengths has been such a meaningful, fullcircle experience for me,” said Bobiak. “When I lost my dad, I didn’t have anyone to turn to, so knowing there is now a resource at this

school for students going through similar experiences means more than I can put into words.”

“Through our lessons and opening up to the girls in our group, I’ve realized how similar our feelings truly are and that everything I was experiencing was completely normal,” added Grace. “I’m excited to see where this group goes after we graduate.”

Food & Dining

Dine In, Take Out, or Try a Recipe at Home!

Take to the Outdoors with a Fresh, Picnic-Friendly Sandwich

(Feature Impact) When the weather breaks and it’s time to get outdoors, there’s hardly any better place to be than resting on a deck, lounging in the backyard or curled up on a picnic blanket at a local park. Enjoy that leisurely time with loved ones by sharing a spread that includes these Picnic Party Sandwiches, perfect for a filling lunch that provides the energy you need for kicking around a soccer ball, playing tag or flying a kite. Find more lunch ideas fit for enjoying the sunshine by visiting Culinary.net.

Picnic Party Sandwiches

Recipe adapted from “Crunch Time Kitchen”

Total time: 20 minutes ~ Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup salted butter

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced

• 1 large fresh baguette

• 1/4 cup fig preserves

• 6 ounces brie cheese, sliced

Directions:

• 6-8 ounces cured meats, such as prosciutto, salami and capocollo

• 2 cups arugula

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 pinch kosher salt

Mash together room temperature butter with fresh parsley. Set aside.

Cut fresh baguette length-wise and smear bottom half of the baguette with herbed butter. Top with fig preserves.

Layer on cured meats followed by slices of brie cheese. For brie, cut off any large pieces of rind.

In small bowl, toss arugula with lemon juice and salt. Add arugula to sandwich followed by top half of baguette.

Cut baguette into four even sandwiches and eat immediately or wrap each one tightly in paper or plastic wrap.

Source: Culinary.net

Round Out Spring Picnics

(Feature Impact) If clear skies and bright sunshine have you dreaming of a fresh meal outdoors, a picnic may be just the solution. Rounding out your spread of sandwiches and cold refreshments doesn’t have to be a trick - instead, treat yourself to a light, simple side like this Picnic Pasta Salad. Visit Culinary.net to find more ways to round out a perfect picnic lunch.

Picnic Pasta Salad

Recipe adapted from “Budget Bytes” Prep time: 10 minutes / Cook time: 8 minutes / Servings: 10

Ingredients:

• 1 pound rotini pasta

• 1 English cucumber

• 2 bell peppers

• 10 ounces grape tomatoes

• 1/2 red onion

• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley

• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

• 1 bottle (16 ounces) Italian dressing

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

Directions:

Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain in colander and rinse with cool water; drain well.

Slice cucumber into half-moons, chop bell peppers, halve tomatoes, thinly slice red onion and chop parsley. Set vegetables and parsley aside.

Transfer drained pasta to large bowl. Add chopped vegetables, parsley and feta cheese.

Pour dressing over pasta salad and toss until evenly coated. Add salt and pepper then refrigerate until ready to eat.

Source: Culinary.net

Lay Down a Picnic Blanket and Sip on a Sweet Beverage

(Feature Impact) Salty snacks and savory sandwiches may fill you up at your next springtime picnic, but no family trip to the park is complete without a sweet, refreshing drink to wash it all down. Stay cool and keep the fun going with a light sip that showcases the taste of the season.

This Picnic Cherry Limeade is easy to make from the comfort of home before being transported (in a non-spill container, of course) to the picnic table or blanket. Just don’t forget the cups and ice.

Find more refreshing beverage ideas by visiting Culinary.net.

Picnic Cherry Limeade

Recipe adapted from “Southern Living” | Time: 5 minutes | Servings: 10

Ingredients:

• 1 jar (10 ounces) whole red maraschino cherries, chilled

• 6 limes, divided

• 1 bottle (2 liters) lemon-lime soda, chilled

• 1/2 cup tart cherry juice, chilled

Directions:

Drain maraschino cherries, reserving syrup. Set whole cherries aside.

Juice four limes to yield 1/2 cup juice; thinly slice remaining limes.

In large pitcher, stir cherry syrup, lime juice, soda and tart cherry juice. Add lime slices.

Transfer to container with tight-fitting lid for transport. Serve over ice and garnish with reserved whole cherries.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock Source: Culinary.net

In Rememberance

Bruce A. Alderson

Bruce Albert Alderson, 75, of Rehoboth, passed away on Monday, March 23, 2026 surrounded by his loving family. He was the beloved husband of Carol Ann (Sobota) Alderson with whom he would have celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary this August, and spent over 58 years of life together overall.

He was born in Attleboro; son of the late Oliver and Barbara (Baker) Alderson. Bruce grew up in Mansfield, moving to Attleboro as a teen, he graduated from Attleboro High School before embarking on a career as a marine technical illustrator, starting with Derecktor Shipyard. His work reflected his deep passion for design and craftsmanship, particularly in the realm of boats. A talented and independent artist, Bruce also enjoyed building intricate models that showcased his creativity and precision. He worked with the Herreshoff Marine Museum in Bristol, RI, the National Air and Space Museum in Washington D.C., and the Yale Peabody Museum in New Haven, CT, on projects with sailing, flight, and paleontology respectively.

Bruce’s love for the sea extended beyond his professional life; sailing was one of his greatest passions. He found immense joy navigating the waters and sharing his enthusiasm for the ocean with those around him. His other great love was music.

For five years, Bruce sang in the Rehoboth Congregational Church, and later for a decade with Saint Cecilia’s Church in Pawtucket.

A man of many talents, Bruce was also an accomplished woodworker who created beautiful walking sticks. His appreciation for history, particularly the Civil War and World War II, made him an expert on the subject and a captivating conversationalist for those who shared his interest.

Bruce served in Freemasonry as a past Lodge Master at Eastern Star in Rehoboth, and was also a Brother at the Mount Hope Lodge, where he formed lasting connections and contributed to the organization’s service mission.

In addition to his wife, Bruce is survived by his son Jeffrey Alderson, and Jeffrey’s wife Brittany of Norton; his beloved grandchildren, Travis and Hannah; his sister Cynthia Fitzgibbons; his brother Thomas Alderson; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his brother Brian Alderson.

Relatives and friends were invited to attend a time of visitation on Thursday, April 2, 2026 from 4pm–7pm in the Foley-Cook New Day Funeral Home, 126 South Main St., Attleboro. There will be a celebration of life at the Rehoboth Congregational Church Fellowship Hall on June 6th, thanks to the parishioners and donors in Bruce’s honor.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Bruce to: Compassionate Care ALS, PO Box 1052, West Falmouth, MA 02574, or by donating at ccals.org

James “Butch”

Fredette

James “Butch” Fredette, age 81 of Taunton passed away Friday, February 13, 2026.

He was the husband of the late Debra (Berube) Fredette. Butch grew up in Rehoboth and was the son of the late Victor and Patricia (Crafford) Fredette. He attended Rehoboth Schools, and was a graduate of Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School.

Butch served in the United States Army from 1962 to 1966, and continued in the Reserves from 1966 to 1970.

Butch was a long time employee of J.P. Noonan Transportation, West Bridgewater, MA for over 35 years as a fuel truck driver which wasn’t just a job, but was his passion. He was a volunteer Fire fighter for the Town of Rehoboth.

He is survived by his sons Brian (Jamie) Fredette and Kevin (Cari) Fredette, sisters Joanne (Carl) Hanson, Kathryn (David deceased) Cassidy, Denise (Dennis) DeSilva, granddaughter Dr. Kiana Fredette and grandson Kyle Fredette. He also leaves behind several nieces and nephews.

Also surviving are his deceased wife Debbie’s children Kara (Greg) Mello, John O’Connell, Jill O’Connell, and their children Carly, Mary Kate Mello, Kayla Kent, Aidan O’Connell, Elizabeth O’Connell, Kimberly O’Connell.

In addition to his parents, and wife Debbie, Butch was predeceased by his brother Peter Fredette.

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

Eugene B. L’Heureux Sr.

Eugene B. L’Heureux Sr., 86, passed away peacefully on April 19, 2026,

at Sturdy Memorial Hospital in Attleboro, surrounded by the love of his family. He was the devoted husband of the late Judith A. (Olson) L’Heureux, with whom he shared almost 60 years of marriage.

Born in Pawtucket, he was the son of the late Alfred and Rita (Bonneau) L’Heureux. Eugene made his home in Seekonk for more than five decades, where he built a life rooted

in hard work, family, and community.

Mr. L’Heureux proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam Era. As a proud veteran, his time in the Navy was a source of great pride and he carried the values of dedication and service throughout his life. After honorably serving his country, Eugene earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Bryant University.

For over 30 years, Eugene worked as a marketing salesman, most recently for E.A. Dion in Attleboro. He took great pride in his work and the relationships he formed throughout his career. Beyond his profession, he dedicated many years to coaching Seekonk Youth Hockey and Seekonk Little League Baseball. He was also a member of the Veterans Council at the Seekonk Knights of Columbus, where he valued camaraderie and service.

Eugene had a deep love for sports, especially as a loyal and lifelong Boston Bruins fan. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life—tending to his garden, following his favorite sports teams, and, most of all, spending time with his beloved family.

He is survived by his loving children, Eugene B. L’Heureux Jr. and his wife Joanna, Kevin D. L’Heureux and his wife Kristen, Debra J. Lambert and her husband Brad, all of Seekonk; his cherished grandchildren, Eugene III, Katerina and her husband Peter, Casey, and Sara; his dear sisters, Peggie Levesque of Cumberland, Irene Donahay of Jupiter, Florida, and Joan Timm of Moreno Valley, California and many nieces and nephews. He was the brother of the late William, Alfred, Raymond, Eva, Rita, and Lorraine.

Eugene will be remembered for his steady presence, his devotion to his family, and the quiet kindness he extended to all who knew him. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the family he loved so deeply.

Relatives and Friends were invited to attend Calling Hours on Friday April 24, 2026 in the W. RAYMOND WASTON FUNERAL HOME, 350 Willett Avenue, Riverside from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. A Private Committal Service was held in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, East Providence.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Eugene’s memory to the Seekonk Veterans Services, 540 Arcade Avenue, Seekonk, MA 02771 would be deeply appreciated.

Raymond A. Salgueiro

surrounded by his family on Friday, May 15, 2026. He was the beloved husband of the late Mary (Januario) Salgueiro.

Born in Providence, he was the son of the late Adelino and Natalie (Luiz) Salgueiro.

A proud veteran, Mr. Salgueiro served as an Army Sergeant during the time of the Korean War. Following his military service, he dedicated 38 years as the Head Boiler

Engineer for Narragansett Electric until his retirement. Never one to idle, he spent his retirement working alongside his son Stephen in home construction and remodeling. In his later years, Raymond channeled his creativity into his workshop, crafting fine furniture and birdhouses, and took immense pride in designing and meticulously maintaining his home’s landscape. Affectionately known as Daddy and Papa, he was the most kind and loving person; he would help any person or animal in need. His connection with animals (both wild and pets) was unparalleled.

He is survived by his two daughters, Cynthia M. Jewett of Rehoboth and Cheryl A. Salgueiro of Riverside, his two granddaughters, Michelle M. Salgueiro of Nova Scotia and Stephanie R. Salgueiro of Warren, five great-grandchildren, and his brother, Farrell Salgueiro, along with many nieces and nephews. Raymond was predeceased by his son, Stephen R. Salgueiro; his sonin-law, William D. Jewett; and his siblings, Joseph Salgueiro, Louis Salgueiro, Richard Salgueiro, and Olympia Hunter.

His funeral was held on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 9:00 AM from the PERRYMCSTAY FUNERAL HOME, 2555 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence with Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM in Our Lady of Loreto Church, 346 Waterman Avenue, East Providence. Burial with Military Honors will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. Calling hours were held on Wednesday from 5:00 to 7:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Rehoboth Foody Pantry, Inc. (rehobothfoodpantryma.org) or to the Rehoboth Animal Shelter, 148 Peck Street, Rehoboth, MA 02769.

Kerry Joyce Lonergan

Kerry Joyce Lonergan, formerly of Seekonk, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2026.

She was the beloved widow of Frank Allendorff Lonergan of Seekonk, Massachusetts.

Born in Boston, Massachusetts, Kerry was the daughter of Leland B. Cottam and Grace Elizabeth Cottam.

Kerry is survived by her loving children: James L. McKay and his wife, Elizabeth J. SharpMcKay; Kelly A. Kolodny and her husband, Douglas E. Kolodny,

Kerry Joyce Lonergan and their children, Joshua Kolodny and his wife, Megan Kolodny, Anna Grace Kolodny, and Jonathan Kolodny; and Daniel P. McKay and his wife, Christine McKay, and their children, Sean McKay and Mark McKay.

She is also survived by Frank’s daughter, Midi Bernardin; her husband, Paul Bernardin; their daughter, Chloe Bernardin; as well as several nieces, nephews, great-niece, and great-nephews.

Kerry spent most of her life in Massachusetts. She lived for a time in Rehoboth, Massachusetts with her children before relocating to Malvern, Pennsylvania, with her husband, Frank, and their three children, Jim, Kelly, and Dan. In 1983, the family returned to Massachusetts to be closer to Kerry’s aging parents, Leland and Grace.

A devoted Episcopalian, Kerry was deeply active in her faith community throughout her life. She worked in the bookstore at La Salette Shrine in Attleboro, Massachusetts, and also served over the years as a church secretary at various parishes. Kerry was known for her volunteer work at annual church bazaars, and she and Frank frequently hosted church coffee hours, warmly welcoming friends and parishioners alike.

Kerry shared a love of gardening and canning with Frank. She delighted in feeding the birds and squirrels outside her kitchen window and leaving carrots in the backyard for visiting rabbits. Her affection for animals was evident throughout her life, as she lovingly cared for many cats and dogs over the years.

She also enjoyed camping adventures with Frank, traveling to campgrounds in popup campers, hard-top campers, and their beloved Winnebago “Mini Winnie.” Kerry found great joy in crafting, especially rubber stamping and handmade cardmaking, creating thoughtful cards for friends and family. She was also a wonderful cook who loved hosting dinner parties for family and friends, especially those from her church community.

Kerry was a loving and devoted grandmother who treasured time with her grandchildren. She happily babysat them over the years and rarely missed an opportunity to attend her granddaughter’s ballet and dance performances, school events, and many other activities and celebrations.

Above all, the most important things in Kerry’s life were her Christian faith and her love for her children and grandchildren. There was nothing she would not do for her family.

A private burial service will be held at Village Cemetery in Rehoboth, Massachusetts.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Kerry’s memory to the memory care unit at Catholic Memorial Home in Fall River, Massachusetts, whose staff provided her with compassionate and exceptional care during the final four years of her life.

Kerry was preceded in death by her brother, Leland H. Cottam, and her parents, Leland B. and Grace E. Cottam.

Arrangements are in the care of the Home of J.H. WILLIAMS & CO.

Elsie (Viera) Ruggiero

Elsie (Viera) Ruggiero, 91, of Seekonk, MA passed away at home on Sunday, May 24, 2026. She was the beloved wife of Joseph J. Ruggiero for 71 years. A lifelong Seekonk resident, she was a daughter of the late Marion and Adeline (Costa) Viera.

In addition to her husband, she was the loving mother of Joanne R. Gordon (Lars) of Smithfield, VA, Sandra L. Ruggiero of Warwick, RI, Gail M. Allenson (David) of West Paris, ME, Janet L. Roy (Jim) of Seekonk, MA and Michael J. Ruggiero (Vanessa) of Moultonboro, NH; cherished grandmother of Leif Gordon (Kelley), Kristin McCauley (Kevin), Col. Andrew Gordon, USAF (Kim), Adam Croft, Sarah Croft (Derek), Lisa Roy (Patrick), John Roy (Taylor) and six great grandchildren; caring sister of Thomas Viera (Roxann) and the late Mary, Marion Jr, Joseph, Anthony, James and Robert Viera, Adeline Philips and Dorothy Ferreira and Angie Curry. Elsie is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services are respectfully omitted. Arrangements entrusted to PERRY-McSTAY FUNERAL HOME www.perrymcstay.com

Death Notices Seekonk

• Loretta Veader, 87, of Trinity, Florida and formerly of Arcade Avenue, Seekonk passed away on Sunday, April 26, 2026.

• Susan J. (Collins) Lemay 73, passed away peacefully at her home with her family by her side on Wednesday, April 29, 2026.

Over the past 5 year a significant shift from pain management or surgery has led more individuals to reject invasive back and neck treatments like spinal fusion surgery or injections in favor of regenerative, non-surgical alternatives. This trend is driven by a growing desire for long-term health rather than the temporary symptom masking provided by drugs and surgery.

Spinal Disc Center clinics with special trained Doctors are combining traditional therapies with Newly FDA Approved Technologies into comprehensive, personalized programs. By integrating these new technologies with proven traditional therapies, patients are achieving faster, more durable outcomes than ever before all without a single incision, shot or prescription. Why the Shift Away from Traditional Medicine?

Patients are increasingly wary of the risks associated with conventional "quick fixes", cover-ups and the side effects of medication that don’t fix anything Chronic use of NSAIDs and opioids leads to stomach, kidney and liver problems creating dependency, and a "masking" effect that ignores the actual cause of pain and dysfunction.

Back surgeries carry inherent risks such as infection, nerve damage, and "failed back surgery syndrome". Successful outcomes are 50/50 with the percentage of success declining each year after the surgery. Recovery can take weeks or months, whereas non-surgical options typically require zero downtime.

Invasive Injections (steroid shots) provide temporary relief, but does not address mechanical issues like disc compression or spinal misalignment. Epidurals are not approved by the FDA for spinal pain and come with

levels of risk and permanent side effects.

Advances in Non-Surgical Solutions have been creeping into the market and are being integrated into traditional spinal practices and offering the risk adverse patients a safer, more effective pathway to recovery. More and more people are turning to these safe and effective non-invasive conservative options instead of cutting or drugging.

My name is Dr. Rodger Lincoln owner of Providence Disc Centers Pawtucket and we have integrated these newly FDA approved technologies that have helped thousands of people relieve them of chronic and debilitating neck and back pain.

At one time these technologies were only available to professional athletes of major League Baseball, Hockey, Basket Ball, Football, Soccer & Professional Golfers. These

professional athletes have the money to hire any kind of doctor they want, yet they choose to have Non-Surgical spinal Decompression, Laser Therapy, Shockwave Therapy and Chiropractic.

These modalities address the root cause of disc break-down, spinal misalignments, nerve irritation, inflammation and loss mobility.

Advanced Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression uses computer controlled motorized traction therapy that gently stretches the spine at the targeted level to create a "vacuum effect" inside the disc. This highly effective process allows herniated or bulging discs to retract the bulge or herniation and promotes the flow of nutrient-rich fluids back into the disc for natural healing.

Class 4 Robotic Laser Therapy use the concentrated power of specific wavelengths of light, Class 4 lasers penetrate deep into tissues to stimulate mitochondrial activity (much like photosynthesis). This biostimulation accelerates cellular repair, reduces swelling, and provides immediate pain relief without heat or surgery.

Shockwave Therapy creates highenergy acoustic sound waves that break up scar tissue, adhesions and calcified deposits in the spinal joints, tendons and ligaments. It triggers a healing response by increasing blood flow and stimulating collagen production, making it ideal for chronic, "stubborn" injuries.

If you have been living in pain or have been told you need surgery, Disc Centers of Providence may have a solution for you. Call 401325-7125 today to schedule

Transitioning Into Retirement

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

Transitioning into retirement can be exciting and daunting. Many retirees work with a professional financial advisor to navigate the multiple life changes.

Income. You will need to reinvent your income in retirement. You will most likely receive Social Security and/or pension income. You may want to continue working part time. Most retirees need additional income to maintain their desired lifestyle. Hopefully, you have been able to accumulate retirement investments that can be used to create income. It is a different mindset and strategy to position your portfolio to provide an income versus accumulation. There is a general rule of thumb that you can draw 4% from your portfolio and have it stay intact (e.g. a $1,000,000 portfolio could produce $40,000 of income per year). Generally speaking, expenses increase in the initial years of retirement (for travel, as an example), then reduce as we age, and again increase later in life for additional health care expenses.

Investments. As people near retirement, it is common to be more concerned about protecting your portfolio than seeing it grow. If so, your portfolio risk should be adjusted to accommodate this. I often layer risk through various “buckets.” I recommend leaving one-year of anticipated expenses in guaranteed vehicles (savings, CDs, treasuries). The balance of your portfolio might be divided into a conservative bucket, moderate-risk bucket, and growth bucket. You want to position your portfolio so that you don’t have to sell more aggressive investments when there is a market downturn. Drawing from the conservative bucket allows the more aggressive ones to continue to grow without disrupting your retirement income. Most people roll their retirement plan over to their IRA when they retire. IRAs provide significantly more investment options and flexibility, and can be professionally managed. Another option to potentially consider is an annuity for a portion of your portfolio. There are several types of annuities, each with their own pros and cons. The

main benefit of most annuities is that they can provide guaranteed income for your life.

Health Care. Most retirees need to transition from health insurance provided by their employer. If you are 65 years old, Medicare is typically the main source of health insurance. There are several components and options within Medicare and supplemental insurance plans. I recommend speaking with an insurance agent that specializes in Medicare. If you are younger than 65, you will need to obtain private health insurance, which can be costly. Your Medicare and health insurance premiums are impacted by your taxable income. You should also consider long-term care expenses and insurance as part of your retirement planning.

Taxes. There are some unique opportunities with tax planning once you are retired, and I find tax planning becomes more complex for many clients. If you live in Massachusetts and are 65+ years old, you may be eligible for the Senior Circuit Breaker credit. There is a formula based on your income and how much you pay for either real estate taxes or rent that determines how much of a tax credit you receive. You can influence your overall taxes based upon how you draw from your investments. For example, it’s possible that money in non-retirement brokerage accounts can be drawn down with less taxes than your 401(k) or IRA. You may have money in Roth IRAs that provide tax-free income. You do need to be careful about how various income options can impact other parts of your taxes such as the Circuit Breaker Credit and health insurance subsidies if you are under the age of 65. Generally speaking, I prefer drawing down non-retirement assets first.

My article next month will be going deeper on retirement income and tax strategies.

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

From the State House

Representative Steven S. Howitt Supports Blue Envelope Bill To Improve Police Interactions With Autistic Individuals

Boston – State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R-Seekonk) is supporting legislation to improve police interactions with individuals who are on the autism spectrum in an attempt to avoid misunderstandings and reduce stress and anxiety for the driver during a motor vehicle stop.

House Bill 5438, An Act facilitating better interactions between police officers and persons with autism spectrum disorder, was engrossed by the House of Representatives on a vote of 156-0 on May 20. The bill is an amended version of legislation that was previously approved by the Senate on a 39-0 vote on July 24, 2025 as Senate Bill 2565.

More commonly referred to as the “blue envelope” bill, House Bill 5438 directs the Department of State Police, the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association, and Advocates for Autism of Massachusetts to design blue envelopes that will provide written information and guidance on ways to enhance communication between police officers and persons with autism. Representative Howitt said this information will be printed on the outside of the envelope, while the person’s driver’s license, motor vehicle registration, and insurance card can be inserted in the envelope.

Representative Howitt noted that the Senate version of the bill includes language requiring the Municipal Police Training Committee to incorporate instruction on the blue envelope program into the specialized training curriculum available to all law enforcement officers. The Senate bill also requires that this information be reviewed not less than every five years to determine if modifications are needed. This language is not included in the House bill.

According to Representative Howitt, Senate Bill 2565 requires the Registrar of Motor Vehicles to make the blue envelopes available to any person with autism or their guardian upon request, beginning on July 1. House Bill 5438 moves the effective date to September 1.

The House and Senate will now work to reconcile the differences between House Bill 5438 and Senate Bill 2565.

Representative Steven S. Howitt Supports Creation of New Blue Star Family Distinctive Registration Plate

Will honor Massachusetts law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty

Boston – Massachusetts law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty will soon be honored with a special distinctive registration plate made available to their surviving family members under proposed legislation backed by State Representative Steven S. Howitt (R-Seekonk).

House Bill 5439, An Act honoring Blue Star Families, was engrossed by the House of Representatives on May 20 on a vote of 156-0. The bill is a redrafted version of legislation that was unanimously approved by the Senate on January 15 as Senate Bill 2903 by a vote of 38-0.

Under both the House and Senate bills, the Registrar of Motor Vehicles will be directed to create a new “Blue Star Family” license plate and motorcycle emblem. Representative Howitt noted that the Senate version requires a plate or emblem to be made available

free of charge to the parent, child, or spouse of a Massachusetts law enforcement officer who was killed in the line of duty, while the House bill expands eligibility to also include an officer’s sibling or grandchild.

A total of 427 police officers have been killed in the line of duty in Massachusetts. A memorial located near the Bowdoin Street entrance to the State House honors their service and sacrifice.

Several members of the House Republican Caucus spoke during floor debate on the bill, recalling police officers from their district who lost their lives while protecting the public. They emphasized the importance of honoring not only these fallen officers, but also the loved ones they left behind.

House Bill 5439 will now go to the Senate for concurrence in the amendment.

Representative Steven S. Howitt and House Chamber Honors Gary Cameron at 2nd Annual Statewide Military Appreciation Day

Boston – State Representative Steven S. Howitt proudly nominated and honored Gary Cameron of the 4th Bristol District (Norton) at the 2nd Annual Military Appreciation Day ceremony held in the Massachusetts State House’s historic House Chamber on Thursday, May 21st, 2026.

Military Appreciation Day was created to establish an annual tradition bringing together local, state, and community leaders to honor those whose service might otherwise go unrecognized. 138 individuals who exemplify commitment to service and community were recognized from districts across Massachusetts.

“I am proud to recognize Gary Cameron for his brave and honorable service to our country. As a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and a recipient of the Purple Heart, Gary has demonstrated extraordinary courage, sacrifice, and bravery. Further, his unwavering commitment to his community continues to make a lasting impact,” said Representative Howitt. “His contributions reflect the strength, resilience, and dedication of our local military community.”

"Dave Says"

How Big Is Your Why?

Dear Dave,

I’m 26, and I graduated from college a few months ago. I was fortunate enough to have a job making $70,000 annually waiting for me. I don’t have any other debt, so my only real problem right now is about $5,000 in credit card debt. It doesn’t seem like a huge amount, but I don’t want to fall into the trap of relying on debt throughout my life. Do you have any suggestions for remaining motivated to stay out of debt in the years ahead?

— Emil

Dear Emil,

Congratulations, young man! Aside from the credit card debt, it sounds like you’re off to a good start in life.

Paying off the credit card debt should be no problem with the income you mentioned. You can knock that out in two or three months just by living on a strict, written budget. Now, how do you stay motivated after that? I think it comes down to having a specific reason, something meaningful in your life that makes you never want to be a slave to debt again.

In my case, it was simple: We went broke and filed bankruptcy the year our second daughter was born. So, my reason for getting out of debt — and staying away from debt after that — was to be able to feed our kids and take care of our family the way a man should. My wife and I also didn’t want to feel the kind of pain that comes from losing everything again.

But here’s the thing, Emil. Everyone’s different. Your situation isn’t the same as mine was, so you’ll probably have different motivations for staying away from debt and building wealth by managing your money wisely. Maybe you want to be outrageously generous to churches, civic groups and nonprofits. Or maybe you want to bless your future family members with an inheritance somewhere down the road.

If you have a good reason for doing something — one that’s meaningful to you — it’ll make all the discipline and scratching and clawing to win worth it. I want you to read a book by Simon Sinek called “Start with Why.” In it, Sinek explains how an extremely personal reason for doing something can help you get up in the morning inspired to make it happen.

Remember, the enemy of excellence isn’t laziness. It’s the attitude of being okay with mediocre and the mindset of “Thank God, it’s Friday. Oh God, it’s Monday.” Ironically, it’s easy in America today to have a high-quality life while being mediocre. But who wants to be mediocre? Why not strive to be all you can be?

If you’ve got a good why, it’ll get you moving in a positive direction with a positive attitude every morning, every day for the rest of your life!

— Dave

A Solid Financial “Construction” Plan

Dear Dave,

My wife and I are in our mid-thirties, and the only debt we have is a combined $15,000 in student loans and credit card payments. We’ve got almost $100,000 in our 401(k) plans, plus we have no children. What steps can we take toward becoming even better investors?

— Curt

Dear Curt,

Whether you’re building a house or building wealth, a rock-solid foundation is an absolute must. Without a firm foundation, everything can easily fall apart. So, while you two aren’t off to a bad start investing-wise, let’s talk about the “construction” process a little.

The first brick you want to lay in your financial foundation is becoming debt-free. The second is to have an emergency fund of three to six months of expenses in the bank. This is money that

by Dave Ramsey

you never touch, except in the case of an actual emergency. It doesn’t go toward vacations, Christmas or anything else.

These two elements help form a firm foundation from which you can build wealth. Most people skip these steps, and jump right into funding 401(k)s, Roth IRAs and mutual funds. These are all great things, but the problem in doing it that way is you’ve started work on the house before you’ve laid the foundation. Believe me, this can cause all kinds of setbacks down the road.

Basically, we’re talking about the first three Baby Steps in my plan. Baby Step 1 is to get your emergency fund started with $1,000 in the bank. Baby Step 2 is paying off all your debt, except for your home, using the debt snowball system. And Baby Step 3 is to finish building your emergency fund to the point where you have three to six months of expenses sitting there.

Curt, the debt you two have isn’t a huge problem. But it is the symptom of you both buying a bunch of stuff you couldn’t afford with money you didn’t really have. Get on a written, monthly budget together, where you both agree on where every dollar is going before the month begins. I want you and your wife to break the debt cycle by having a permanent game plan.

Once you do that, you’ll have freed up your largest investing and wealth-building tool—your income!

— Dave

* Dave Ramsey is a nine-time national bestselling author, personal finance expert and host of The Ramsey Show. He has appeared on Good Morning America, CBS This Morning, Today, Fox News, CNN, Fox Business and many more. Since 1992, Dave has helped people take control of their money, build wealth and enhance their lives. He also serves as CEO for Ramsey Solutions.

CLASSIFIEDS Place

YARD SALE

YARD SALE: Big neighborhood yard sale! We have everything. Kitchen stuff, awesome handmade jewelry, lots of fabric and kid stuff. Burton Ave & Lyman St in Riverside. June 13th & 14th 9am-3pm. Come all!

FARM & GARDEN

Free seasoned horse manure by the bucket, barrel or truck. Call 508-353-7470.

FOR SALE

HORSE TRAILER: Kingston Windsor, 2 Horse bumper pull, 1998. Very good condition, low miles. Oversized, Anti-corrosive steel frame. Very good tires/new spare. Many extras and safety features. GVW 5,900 pounds, recently serviced and inspected. Rehoboth. $6,995. Specs/pics available. Call/ text 508-269-2600. Rehoboth, MA.

Passier Dressage Saddle for sale: Nicoles Grand Gilbert in very good condition, 17.5, #252106, light use, $645. Specs/ pics available. Call/Text 508-269-2600. Rehoboth, MA.

GENERAL BINDERY HELPER WANTED

The ideal candidate will be responsible for operating machines that bind books, magazines, and other publications.

Responsibilities:

• Operate and feed machinery

• Cut, trim, sort, assemble, insert and fold materials

• Qualifications:

• Ability to handle up to 50 pounds

• Experience working in a fast-paced environment a plus.

• Must have reliable transportation Expected work week: Monday through Thursday Early morning / day shift

Three day weekend Paid time off Health / Dental insurance

Life insurance 401K Compensation: Starting pay $17 per hour

Based on experience

WE ARE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. VETERANS AND RETIREES ARE WELCOME TO APPLY. Please send resume to: accounting@tcipress.com

HELP WANTED

Yard work Help Wanted: Retired person to do yard work part time, $15/hr, in Riverside, call Delfina at 401-433-2922

Help Wanted Seekonk Flea Market at Seekonk Speedway: Positions available Sundays from March 29th thru December 6, 2026 every Sunday from 5am-noon. Looking for general help. Call Linda at 401-263-5737.

Be Part of a Winning Teaching Team: Teacher Openings at Twin Oaks Farm Learning Center. All positions - Infants, Toddler & Preschool. Small classes, country setting, college opportunities, dental and vision insurance, retirement plans. Curriculum planning and professional support. At Twin Oaks, we want both teachers and children to be happy, kind, and safe. Located at 127 Tremont St, Rehoboth MA. Call 508-2525522 for your interview.

FOR RENT

4-car garage for rent in Warren: Perfect for 4 antique cars because of long length and is clean, dry, secure. I am real easy to work with so any garage modifications according to your needs won’t be an issue. $500 per month or best offer. Michael 401-243-4467.

EVENTS

Seekonk Flea Market at Seekonk Speedway is open, 7am-1pm every Sunday until December 6th. So many vendors with a large variety of items – there’s something for everyone! Vendors & Patrons welcome and wanted! For more information, call Linda at 401-263-5737.

WANTED

Donations Wanted: looking for flower vases and baskets, please donate. Call Debbie at 401-632-3602.

Donations Wanted: Donations of unwanted household items for local charity raffle baskets, such as: glassware, jewelry, unused gift cards, pet items, indoor & outdoor décor. Will pick up. Call Debbie 401632-3602.

Wanted: Cash paid for your military 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. 508574-4392.

We do estate cleanouts! Call 774-301-5420.

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.

Junk cars wanted up to $500 paid no key? No title? Not running? No problem! For 24/7 pick ups call or text 401-895-7351.

PERSONAL AD

Nice guy looking for a woman: Between 50-60 for companionship, dancing, and dining out. Call Kevin at 401-259-9393. (e626)

SERVICES

Cambridge Prep Summer Classes - Online classes: https://bit.ly/4eSjxQd Offering High School Chemistry, Biology, Cell Biology, Anatomy & Physiology, AP Biology, and AP Chemistry. Enroll in limited spots!! Engaging, in-depth lessons taught by experienced instructors. Build confidence, strengthen STEM skills, and get ahead before the school year begins!

MTL Lawncare Call or text for your free quote today! Services we offer: Annual Maintenance and mowing. Seasonal Cleanups, weed control and fertilization, Pruning and hedge trimming. Your lawn is our passion! 774-254-2874 mtllawns@gmail.com

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.

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

Bicycle Sales & Service: Your Bike Shops –Tune-ups on all brands. Happy 250th Anniversary USA! Get your bike tuned up now! 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 service and NEW hours. 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.