Gorgeous shot of the Town Hall. pc: Doug Hyde
The Select Board office is proud to announce our Holiday Tree Lighting will return for its 32nd year! Join the Town of Westwood on December 8th from 3-5pm as we gather to light up Westwood Town Hall for our annual Holiday Tree Lighting. Attendees will enjoy horse drawn carriage rides, face painting, costume characters, festive snacks & more! We even hear someone from the North Pole will be making a guest appearance....
Stay Informed About Westwood Government
The Town's website provides meeting agendas, news, and event information in addition to information on every town department, board and committee. You can also sign up to customize your experience on the website using our MyTown portal at the following link. You’ll never miss a meeting as you can receive email notifications for all upcoming public meetings. http://www.townhall.westwood.ma.us/mytown
Here are some ways to customize your visits to the website using the MyTown portal
- Customize which News you want to view on your portal page
- Customize which calendar items categories you want to view on your portal page
- Select email notifications for all events or news items added to the website
- You can "favorite pages" on the website and then select to receive email notifications when that page is updated.
The Town of Westwood has 24 wooden pews in the Sanctuary of the Islington Community Center, the remaining seating from the former Islington Community Church. These pews are available to the public through auction by the Town of Westwood. Buyers are responsible for removing the pews from the Sanctuary at the time of purchase.
Pew Dimensions
Length of pews: 163 inches (13’7”)
Height of pews: 33 inches
Width of pews: 20 inches
Depth of seat: 15 inches
Back rest: 16 inches
To look at the pews, please contact Youth & Family Services at 781-320-1006.
To take possession of pews, please view them here:
http://www.publicsurplus.com/sms/auction/view?auc=2446729
Join the 2020 census team!
Earn extra income while helping your community.
The U.S. Census Bureau is recruiting thousands of people across the country to assist with the 2020 Census count. These positions provide the perfect opportunity to earn some extra income while helping your community. The results of the 2020 Census will help determine each state’s representation in Congress, as well as how certain funds are spent for schools, hospitals, roads, and more. This is your chance to play a part in history and help ensure that everyone in your community is counted!
Apply online:
2020census.gov/jobs
For More information or help applying, please call 1-855-JOB-2020
Dog licensing will begin for 2019 January 1, 2020 through March 31, 2020.
- You may license your dog online, in person, or, by mail, provided you include a copy of a current rabies certificate and a self-addressed stamped envelope. If you are licensing your dog for the first time, proof of spay or neutering is also required.
- Licenses will be valid from January 1, 2020 until December 31, 2020.
- You must license your dog on an annual basis.
- If you own more than 4 dogs this is considered a “Personal Kennel” per MGL c. 140 §136A.
- You must go through a special permit application process through the Zoning Board of Appeals to license a kennel.
- Failure to license your dog on or before March 31, 2020 may result in a fine of $25.00, per town bylaws §184-10,B.(1).
Licensing Fees are as follows:
- Dogs not Neutered or Spayed: $15.00.
- Dogs Neutered or Spayed: $10.00.
- Residents ages 70 or older the fee is waived for one dog per household.
- Kennel fees-please contact the Town Clerk’s office.
Please be sure to include the correct licensing fee. If you are unsure, Please contact the Town Clerks office at 781 326-3964.
Annual Rabies Clinic:
- Saturday, January 11, 2020, 9A-12N, Carby Street Municipal Office Building, 50 Carby Street, Westwood.
- You may also license your dog(s) at the Rabies Clinic.
The 2020 Annual Town Census will be sent to each household in late December. It is extremely important that you fill this out and return it within 10 days of its receipt. You may also scan and email it to census@townhall.westwood.ma.us provided you have filled it out and signed it. Failure to return the Census may cause a voter to be designated as inactive on the voting list (M.G.L, Ch.51, § 4). Also please note that you may not register to vote or change parties via a census form.
Annual Town Election:
- The Annual Town Election will be held on Tuesday, April 28, 2020
- Nomination papers will be available on Tuesday, January 14, 2020 for those registered Westwood voters who wish to run for town elected positions.
- Last day to obtain nomination papers will be on Friday, March 6, 2020. The Town Clerks office will be open until 5:00pm.
- Last day to register voters for Annual Town Election & Annual Town Meeting will be Wednesday, April 8, 2020. The Town Clerks office will be open until 8:00 p.m. or you may register to vote online: https://www.sec.state.ma.us/OVR/
- To check your voter registration status: https://www.sec.state.ma.us/VoterRegistrationSearch/MyVoterRegStatus.aspx
The following elected offices will appear on the Ballot:
- Board of Assessors - 1 Seat - 3 Year Term
- Collector of Taxes-1 Seat-3 Year Term
- Housing Authority-1 Seat- 5 Year Term
- Library Trustee - 2 Seats - 3 Year Terms
- Moderator - 1 Seat - 1 Year Term
- Planning Board - 1 Seat - 3 Year Term
- School Committee - 2 Seats -3 Year Terms
- Selectman - 1 Seat - 3 Year Term
- Sewer Commission - 1 Seat - 3 Year Term
- Sewer Commission-1 Seat-2 Year term(to fill a vacancy)
- Sewer Commission-1 Seat-1 Year term(to fill a vacancy)
Flu Season Information for Westwood Residents
The Westwood Health Department has flu vaccines available for Westwood residents. If you would like to schedule a flu shot for you or a family member, please contact the Westwood Town Nurse: 781-251-2576.
Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee Update
Westwood’s Comprehensive Plan Update is proceeding. A Comprehensive Plan is a long range policy document that focuses on Westwood’s vision and strategies to achieve that vision. The Steering Committee has been working over the last year to update the 2000 version for 2019-2020. The Committee is in the process of presenting initial recommendations and draft goals at a series of Planning Board meetings that began in October and will continue on December 10 and January 7. The December meeting will take place at 50 Carby Street and the January 7 meeting will be held at the library in the community meeting room.
December 10, 2019 - 50 Carby St. – Housing, Land Use January 7, 2020 - 660 High St. Library – Town Centers, Economic Development
The purpose of the initial presentations is to seek Planning Board and public input on a first draft. The Committee will then continue to work on the plan and return to the Planning Board in 2020 with further revisions. All meetings are televised and everyone is invited to attend. Drafts will be available in advance of the scheduled meeting for review.
For more information and drafts of the sections already presented to the Planning Board please visit the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee’s website at:
www.bit.do/WWComprehensiveplan
Please contact Abby McCabe, Town Planner at amccabe@townhall.westwood.ma.us or 781-251-2581 with questions.
Westwood Youth & Family Services provides free community based programs and confidential counseling for the children and families of Westwood.
The Westwood Department of Public Works will once again offer a holiday dumpster to dispose of extra cardboard. The cardboard ONLY dumpster will be available for use:
December 26th, 27th & 30th 2019 (7am–3pm)
December 31, 2019 (7am-11:30am)
January 1st, 2020 (closed)
January 2nd & 3rd, 2020 (7am-3pm)
Cardboard ONLY- no trash, wrapping paper or Styrofoam (anything other than cardboard will contaminate the dumpster)
Christmas Tree Pickup:
January 6, 2020- January 17, 2020
Westwood Department of Public Works will be picking up Christmas trees January 6th through January 17th. Please have your Christmas trees out at your curbside by 7am on your regularly scheduled trash pickup day. All trees must be free of plastic bags, stands, ornaments, and other materials to be acceptable for collection.
If you have any questions, please call the Department of Public Works at 781-251-2587.
Annual Basket Fundraiser
The Westwood Council on Aging is once again hosting our Annual Basket Fundraiser. Each basket has a sponsor (thank you sponsors!) and is worth over $250! Tickets are $1 each or $10 for 12 tickets and are available at the Center Monday - Thursday 8-3 and Friday 8-1. Please know that 100% of the proceeds will go directly towards the programs here at the Center. This is our one and only fundraiser and we really hope you will come and help us raise the necessary funds to assist our elder community. Last day to buy tickets is Friday December 6; drawing is on December 18 and you do not need to be present to win. Thank you!
Volunteer Drivers Needed for Meals on Wheels
Can you spare a few hours once a week to deliver meals to home bound seniors in Westwood? If so, Elaine is looking for drivers. Please call her at 781-329-6514
Parents Don’t Want to be Parented by Their Children
With Brenda from 2Sisters Living Advisors
Monday December 9- 10am
$2 donation - Please sign up in advance
Join Brenda for a heartfelt discussion about the changing dynamics in your relationship with your children. Go beyond negative feelings and into a reciprocal relationship focused on your wishes and future plans.
Chorus Concert
At First Parish Church
Wednesday December 11
Concert at 11am – Followed by lunch at noontime
$5 donation - You must sign up in advance as space is limited
Join us as we celebrate the holidays with a chorus concert followed by a light lunch. Special thanks to First Parish for opening their church and kitchen for us.
All String Considered Concert
With Laurel and her friends
Friday December 20
Noontime (lunch included)
$5 donation - You must sign up in advance
Join us for a string concert with musicians, Laurel, Hannah and Angela who will get you in the holiday mood. A light lunch will be served.
NIGHT VISION GLASSES $12 Do you have problems driving at night? Does the glare of other cars bother you? Then Night Vision Driving Glasses may help you. See Lorraine for a pair.
All Library programs are generously sponsored by the Friends of the Westwood Public Library.
Kids’ Programs at the Main Library
660 High Street, Westwood, MA 02090
wwdchildrens@gmail.com – (781) 320-1042
The library is for everyone and all children’s programs are inclusive. If you have questions about a specific program, please contact Lizzy, the Head of Children’s Services, at ehmcgovern@minlib.net to discuss ways to ensure our programs are enjoyable for your child.
Please check our website for up-to-date schedule adjustments.
For Kids 0-5:
Messy Mondays: For children ages 2-5 and parent/caregiver. Children are welcome to come for seasonal craft activities and sensory play.
Monday, December 30th and February 24th @ 10:30 AM
Wiggle & Giggle Storytime: For all ages, no registration. Kids and their caregivers are welcome to come and wiggle and giggle with us as we enjoy music, movement, storytelling, and more!
Tuesdays, 10:30 AM Jan 7th-Feb 11th and March 3rd-April 7th
*Preschool Spanish Fun: For ages 3-5 with parent/caregiver.
Join Senora Kristin for an hour of learning spanish through stories, songs, and play activities!
Tuesdays, Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28 @ 1:30PM *Registration required
Wondrous Wednesdays Storytime: For all ages, no registration. Children and their caregivers are welcome to come listen to stories, songs, rhymes, and more! A short activity will be available for those who wish to stay after storytime.
Wednesdays, 10:30 AM Jan 8th-Feb 12th and March 4th-April 8th
Baby Rhyme Time: For babies 0-24 months and a caregiver. Come enjoy the magic of rhymes and music with your little one! Miss Lizzy will lead everyone in traditional rhymes and music as well as wonderful new favorites!
Fridays, 10:30 AM Jan 10th-Feb 14th and March 6th-April 10th
For School Age Kids:
Mother-Daughter Book Club: For kids in grades 3-5 and a female adult. Share your enthusiasm for reading with other book lovers and join us for a lively discussion, a game of Pictionary, snacks, and fun! Books will be available at the Children’s Department. Email Lizzy at ehmcgovern@minlib.net to register or for more info.
Wednesdays, Jan. 15, Feb. 12, March 18 @ 6:30 PM
Creative Kids: For Kindergarten and 1st graders, registration required. Children will have lots of fun as they participate in creative dramatics and arts & crafts activities. *Registration Required.
Thursdays, Jan. 2- Jan 13 (No 2/6/19 for Harry Potter Night) and Jan. 27-April 2nd
Books and Bites: For kids in 2nd and 3rd grade. Who loves books?! Who loves snacks?! Who loves book-themed snacks?! Each month 2nd and 3rd graders will read a chosen book and participate in discussions, activities, and themed snacks. Email Kristy @ Kpasquariello@minlib.net for more info. *Registration Required
Fridays, Dec 20, Jan.17, Feb. 28, March 20 @ 4:00PM
First Friday Drop in Craft: This winter, join us on the first Friday of every month for a cozy afternoon of craft making. Crafts will be geared at ages 5 and up, but younger kids are welcome if accompanied by an adult.
Fridays, Jan. 3, Feb. 7, March. 6
Magic the Gathering Club: Ages 9 and up. Drop in and play the fantasy card game Magic the Gathering. Bring your own deck or borrow a starter deck from the library.
Tuesdays, 6:30-8pm
Harry Potter Night: Triwizard Tournament: We are very excited to announce that the Triwizard Tournament is the theme for Harry Potter Book Night 2020. In Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, Harry and three other champions must face challenges that will test them in different ways – their magical prowess, their daring and their powers of deduction. Are you brave enough to put your name into the Goblet of Fire? Wizards, witches and Muggles of all ages are welcome!
Thursday, February 6th @ 6:30PM
Saturdays for Kids
Spanish Saturday Storytime: This special storytime introduces children and their families to the Spanish language! Led by the Westwood High School Spanish Honor Society students.
Saturday December 14th @ 10:30AM
Saturday Storytimes: All ages, no registration. Kids and their parents/caregivers are welcome to come hear stories, rhymes, and songs!
Select Saturdays: Jan. 11, Feb. 15, March 14 @ 10:30 – 11 AM
*Read to a Dog: Children in grades K-4 can sign up for a 15-minute "appointment" to read aloud to a certified therapy dog. Families and siblings wait outside, while the child gets valuable one on one time with a furry companion. Sign up starting two weeks before the program, at the children's desk or on the phone. *Registration Required
Select Saturdays, Jan.25th, Feb. 8th, March 28th from 10:30-11:30am
Dads and Donuts: Bond with dad (and donuts) at the library! Families with young children are invited to join us to read stories, play games, and have coffee and donuts and meet other families. (Mothers, siblings, and other family members welcome!). Donuts and coffee are generously provided by the Friends of the Library.
Saturdays: Jan. 18th, Feb. 22nd, March 21st @10:30 AM
December Vacation
Winter Crafts: For children ages 5 and up with parent/caregiver. Looking for a last minute homemade gift idea? Join us at the library to decorate an ornament and make homemade wrapping paper.
Monday, December 23rd @ 11AM
*Snow Sisters Royal Storytime:
Join us for a special visit from the Snow Sisters! Celebrate Frozen 2 by listening to the sisters tell their story, sing songs, followed by a meet and greet, hugs, and a photo opportunity for children. *Registration Required
Thursday December 26, @ 2PM
Creature Teachers: For ages 5 and up with parent/caregiver. Come see LIVE animals at the library! Learn fun facts about exotic animals and their habitats and how we can help. Friday December 27, @ 11AM
Messy Monday: For children ages 2-5 and parent/caregiver. Children are welcome to come for seasonal craft activities and sensory play.
Monday, December 30th @ 10:30 AM
February Vacation
Trevor the Games Man: Drop in with the whole family for a hilarious and unique participatory show with Trevor the Games man! Watch Trevor perform on his stilts and participate in games and a craft! All ages welcome with a grownup.
Tuesday, Feb 18 @ 4pm
Interactive Family Movie: Wizard of Oz
Families are welcome to join us for an interactive showing of one of the most beloved movies! Feel free to bring blanket and snacks as you settle in to sing along with props and activities throughout the movie!
Wednesday, Feb 19 @ 3-5PM
*Stuffed Animal Sleepover: For Children ages 2-8. We'll read a few stories, eat a snack, and make a nametag for your favorite stuffed animal. Leave them overnight at the library and they'll have a sleepover party just for stuffed animals! Pick them up the next day any time after 10:00 a.m. and see what they did all night long. Feel free to wear pajamas to this evening event! *(Registration Required)
Thursday, Feb 20 @ 5:30PM
Winter Crafternoon: For all ages with a parent/caregiver. Join is for a cozy winter afternoon at the library for crafting!
Friday, Feb 21 @ 2PM
Kids’ Programs @ the Islington Branch
Lego Mania: Join us Tuesday afternoons @ 3:30 pm to hear a story and build a creation around the book.
Pajama-Rama Storytime: Stories and songs with a sleepytime theme. Please come in your PJ's and bring a favorite blanket and stuffed animal, too!
3rd Wednesday of the Month: Dec.18, Jan. 15, Feb.19 @ 6:30PM
Teen Programs at the Main Library
660 High Street, Westwood, MA 02090
fokeefe@minlib.net – (781) 320-1042
Please check website for up-to-date schedule adjustments
Teen Knitting: Join us for knitting! Supplies provided to get started on a simple project.
Mondays, @ 6:30PM
Teen Book Club: For teens and tweens in grades 6 and up. Join Felicia and Lizzy every 2nd Half-day Wednesday at the library for snacks and discussion of the book of the month! Dec. 18, Jan 22, Feb 26th at 1:45PM
Gamer Lounge with One Up Games: For kids in grades 6 - 8, no registration. Middle Schoolers can come to the library on Early Release Wednesdays for two hours of open game play with One Up Games featuring SuperSmash Bro., Fortnite, MarioKart, and more!
Wednesdays, Jan. 8, Feb. 26, 2-4PM
*YABOI (Youth Advisory Board Of Improvement): For teens in grades 6th and up. Interested in volunteering at the library and participating in our Youth Advisory Board? Join us on the first Thursday night of the month to help to revamp the Teen Department at the Westwood Public Library! We will plan events, pick out books and games for the YA collection, and decorate the teen space. Typical volunteering activities may include: Sorting and shelving library materials, adopt a shelf program, assisting with special projects and producing materials for library programs, miscellaneous work, and special events. Email Felicia at Fokeefe@minlib.net if interested in joining YABOI.
Fri-Yay! For tweens/teens in grades 6-12.
Come hang out with your friends in a relaxed informal setting. Eat, play video or board games, listen to music and catch up on new movies and books. Each week you can get your craft on with new projects! We need you there to make sure something interesting is always happening!
Fridays @ 3:00PM
Get a CLUE For tweens/teens in grades 6-12.
Love the game Clue, or . Come solve the mystery after-hours at the library!
Friday, Jan. 10th @ 6:30 - 8:30PM
Adult Programs at the Main Library
660 High Street, Westwood, MA 02090
wwdmail1@minlib.net – (781) 320-1045
Please check website for up-to-date schedule adjustments
*Mah Jongg for Beginners*: Join the ranks of Mah Jongg enthusiasts nationwide who are reaping the social and intellectual benefits of playing this challenging tile game. No experience needed. By the end of the six-week session, players will have mastered the basics: setting up the tiles and racks, dealing and passing tiles, choosing a hand by interpreting the Mah Jongg card, and playing a round. Space is limited and registration is required. To sign-up, stop by the 2nd Floor Information Desk at the Main Library, visit our website, or call 781-320-1045.
Main Library: Fridays Jan. 10, Jan. 17, Jan. 31, Feb. 7, Feb. 14, Feb. 21 (no class Jan. 24; snow date Feb. 28) @ 10AM *Registration Required
Bicycling Alone Across the U.S. at Age 70: Join John Springfield as he takes you on a 2900-mile bicycle trip from the Atlantic Ocean in Georgia to the Pacific Ocean in California in early 2019. We will dodge tornadoes in Alabama, endure temperatures from 32 to 99 degrees, climb mountains, and ford streams. Learn about the 900-mile desert in the southwest where food and water is lacking. Run into cowboys in a small West Texas Café. All this and more, alone, at a young age of 70. John, a retired computer programmer and former instructor at Boston College's Evening School, has been bicycle touring since 1964, cycling in all 48 lower states and several Canadian provinces. Come hear his amazing story!
Main Library: Wednesday, Jan. 22 @ 7:00 PM
Book Buzz Panel: Librarian's favorite reads! Join us for a night of book talks. The Westwood librarians will share some of their favorite titles. We will have copies of the books to check out. Bring a friend, get a list of books to read and enjoy the company.
Main Library: Thursday, Jan. 30 @ 7:00 PM
Great Decisions with Tina McCusker: Great Decisions is America's largest discussion program on world affairs. The program model involves reading an article about a particular global issue, watching the DVD & meeting in a Discussion Group to discuss the most critical global issues facing America today. Copies of articles are available at both the Main Library & the Islington Branch. If you are interested in attending please
register at the Info Desk on the 2nd Floor of the Main Library, or email TMcCusker@minlib.net.
Main Library: Select Thursdays at 7:00 PM
Topics and dates TBD. Call 781-320-1045, email TMcCusker@minlib.net, or visit our website for updates.
Armchair Travel with Barry Pell: This event is generously sponsored by the Friends of the Westwood Public Library, The Friends of the COA, and The Westwood Foundation for Education. All are welcome! Coffee and light refreshments beginning at 10 am.
Photo journeys begin at 10:30 am.
Main Library: Tuesdays @ 10:30 AM Coffee available beginning at 10 am.
March 24: Travels in Argentina and Ecuador
April 7: The Incredible Beauty of Switzerland
May 5: Finland – From Helsinki to Lapland
Friday AM and *new* Thursday PM Book Club: Due to the popularity of the Friday AM Book Club, we are adding a second session on Thursday evenings! The groups will read the same titles. Email Molly at mriportella@minlib.net to join either group. Titles TBD on Friday, December 13th Yankee Book Swap.
Main Library: Thursdays @ 7:00 PM: Jan. 23, Feb. 27, March 19
Fridays @ 10:30 AM: Jan. 24, Feb. 28, March 20
*Individual Computer Classes: Register for a 40 minute appointment with Kristen or Brendan. To sign-up call 781-320-1045 or stop by the Information Desk on the 2nd Floor.
Main Library: Mondays, beginning at 2:30 PM & Fridays, beginning at 3:30 PM *Registration Required
Technology Help Drop-in: Do you have a new laptop, tablet or e-reader, and are looking for a little help getting started? Have you heard about getting free ebooks, audio books, TV shows & movies from the library, and want to learn more? Or do you want to learn a new language at home at no cost? Grab your device & come to our Technology Help Drop-in! No registration is required, but be sure to bring your device, your library card, and any passwords or other information that might help get you hooked up!
Main Library: Mondays at 6:00 PM
Westwood Library Quilters: Bring your hand or machine quilting projects to work on in the friendly company of other local quilters. Show and tell is encouraged! An iron, ironing pad, cutting mats, and cutting tools will be available. No registration required.
Main Library: Mondays at 6:30 PM
Jan. 27, Feb. 24, March 30 and April 27
Westwood Writers’ Group: An adult writers' group that meets once a month to:
- write together
- critique each other's work
- discuss a writing topic of interest for the group
All adult writers are welcome. To register, please email Anu at composeadream@gmail.com or Molly at mriportella@minlib.net, call 781-320-1045, or stop by the 2nd Floor Info Desk at the Main Library.
Main Library: Wednesdays at 7:00 PM
Jan. 8, Feb, 5 and March 11
Spanish Conversation Circle: This is a new group open to beginners, intermediate, and advanced speakers. A friendly place to practice and improve your Spanish language skills. Practice will include group discussions and reading exercises, with the potential for music, games and videos in Spanish. All are welcome! To register, please email Steve at Shinop87@gmail.com with questions or comments.
Main Library: Tuesdays at 7:00 PM
Jan. 7, Jan. 21, Feb. 4, Feb. 18, March 17 and March 31
Adult Programs at the Islington Branch
280 Washington Street, Westwood, MA 02090
wwdmail2@minlib.net– (781) 326-5914
Please check out website for up-to-date schedule adjustments
Islington Branch Historical Fiction Book Group: Join us at the Branch to discuss some great historical fiction. Copies available at both libraries.
First Tuesday of the month @ 10 AM, check the website for titles and location. DROP IN PROGRAM
Islington Branch Book Group: Join us at the Branch to discuss selected titles! Copies available at both libraries.
Second Wednesday night of the month @ 6:30 PM, check the website for titles. DROP IN PROGRAM
Sit and Knit: Join us for a morning of knitting, crocheting, needlepointing, cross stitching or hand quilting.... Bring your own projects and supplies with you. Sit and knit while enjoying the comfort of the Branch and check out a new craft book, cozy mystery, or a knitting magazine....
Thursdays, 10:00am-12:00pm temporarily at the Main Library. DROP IN PROGRAM
All Library Programs are Free and are generously supported by the Friends of Westwood Library. Registration begins one month prior to program start date. For additional programs and further information, please call the Main Library Children’s Department at 781-320-1042, the Main Library Adult Services Department at 781-320-1045, or the Islington Branch at 781-326-5914 or visit the web site at www.westwoodlibrary.org
ISLINGTON BRANCH LIBRARY UPDATE
The temporary Islington Branch "Pop-Up" Library space is now open to the public in it's "Pop-Up" location at 288 Washington Street. For those familiar with Islington, this corresponds to the former sanctuary space in the Islington Community Center (ICC). Pews have been moved and re-arranged, tables and chairs set up, shelving and rugs are in place, and dozens of moving crates and cartons have been emptied. Books and materials have been sorted out, computers, copiers and cords have been re-connected, and the ICC space has now been transformed into a very cozy branch library!
For the next several weeks, the Islington Branch Library will be open with limited hours of operation. This schedule will be in effect until December 6th, after which time additional branch hours will be added.
November 19 – December 5th Islington Branch “Pop-Up” Library - Hours of Operation
Tuesday: 3 pm – 5 pm
Wednesday: 1 pm – 8 pm
Thursday: 3 pm – 5 pm
Beginning on Tuesday, December 10th, the Branch Library "Pop-up" will open to the public at 1 pm three days a week. This expanded schedule will be in effect until the end of the school year.
Beginning December 10th Islington Branch “Pop-Up” Library -- Hours of Operation
Tuesday: 1 pm – 5 pm
Wednesday: 1 pm – 8 pm
Thursday: 1 pm – 5 pm
While the branch is in its temporary quarters, the relocation and renovation of Wentwoth Hall will be underway. Construction is anticipated To be completed in Fall 2020, at which time the Branch Library and Youth and Family Services offices and staff will move across the street to their next new location, adjacent to the CVS building.
As we turn the page and open a new chapter of community library services in Islington Center, Library Trustees and staff would like to thank the many individuals, community organizations and town departments that worked collaboratively to make this possible. It really took a village! If you're in the area, we hope you will “Pop-In to the Pop-Up” Branch Library.
The Westwood Fire Department will be continuing our Adopt-A-Hydrant program that we initiated last year. This is a great opportunity for residents, businesses, and civic organizations to help the Fire Department to keep our 600+ fire hydrants clear or ice and snow. During a fire, minutes matter and firefighters don't want to spend precious time clearing a hydrant when they could be saving lives and property. This is where you can help. Follow the link below to an interactive map where you can locate hydrants close to your property or business and click on the one or more you want to adopt. During the winter, keep a 3 foot perimeter around your hydrant and a walkway to the street free of snow and ice. When you clear your hydrant, click on it again and change the status to "clear" so that we know that hydrant is all set. Brad about your hydrant or challenge your neighbors by posting pictures to our twitter page.
www.westwoodhydrant.org
The following sections are submissions provided by organizations within the community. If you have questions or would like to learn how to submit to the Westwood Wire, please email westwoodwire@townhall.westwood.ma.us
Dear Westwood Families:
On October 23rd and November 4th, the Westwood School Committee held two community engagement sessions to provide information and gather input and questions about the Westwood Elementary Schools Building Project. These forums were the first of many opportunities for residents to be involved in the project as our design team and the School Building Committee conduct a Feasibility Study to determine the best way forward for the project.
At these initial forums, attendees participated in breakout discussion groups and provided input around key questions. We have compiled the results of those discussions for your review.
In addition, participants submitted questions about the project, which we compiled to create an FAQ document. We have posted it on the project webpage and will continue to add to and revise the FAQs as we move through the Feasibility Study.
If you were unable to attend, you can view a video of the forum on our Elementary Building Project webpage. In addition, if you have a question that is not currently covered in the FAQ, we welcome you to submit a question to us.
Finally, please mark you calendars for the next community engagement forums on December 9th and December 12th, both at 7pm in the Thurston Middle School cafeteria, in which we will present the Education Plan that will form the basis of the project design. Like the first forums, the program will be the same on both evenings - please feel free to attend either one or both.
Sincerely,
The Westwood School Committee
Westwood Community in Action will proudly host the 32nd All Night Graduation Party at Westwood High School for the Class of 2020.
More than 30 years ago, a group of parents formed Westwood Community in Action, Inc. a non-profit dedicated to organizing and funding the annual overnight event to provide all graduating seniors a final night of celebration in a safe, fun, entertainment filled event.
Each year a surprise theme, unique activities, fabulous food, amazing music, and memories for the students are organized into the spectacular all-night event. “It’s mind-blowing to see what a dedicated group of community volunteers create and execute every year” remarks Jennie Conway, one of the committee chairs. “The goal is to make it memorable for the kids and we hear every year from both graduates and their parents the event is a capstone to their years at WHS.”
“The All Night party was such a great way to top off my years at WHS” says 2019 graduate John de Reyna. “I couldn’t believe how the high school was transformed with decorations and all the fun things to do.” That enthusiasm for the High School location has been a challenge for Community in Action in recent years as the event requires an army of volunteers and a quick clean up and turn around in the morning when school starts for underclassmen. “The volunteers and custodial staff are amazing” says Conway, “with everyone’s help we pull it off each year. We are thrilled to be able to host the party at Westwood High School again in 2020.”
This community event is funded solely from donations, corporate sponsors, and fundraising. Please consider a financial contribution to Westwood Community in Action or get involved as a volunteer this year. Information is available on the website www.westwoodangp.com. Donations may also be sent directly to WCIA, P.O. Box 2605, Westwood, MA 02090.
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