Westwood Select Board's Office

Stay Connected with Westwood

Connect with Westwood
Staying on top of what's going on around Westwood is easier than ever! The town has several options - on a variety of platforms - for all residents to stay on top of public safety information, school, and town business. Residents can visit the town website, and click on "stay connected" on the main page. 

ALERT Westwood
Westwood uses ALERT Westwood for all emergency and non-emergency notifications. Once enrolled, residents have the option to receive notifications via phone, text message, email, or a combination of the three. It is our hope that with a more advanced software, we will be able to communicate with residents more quickly than ever before.

To enroll in ALERT Westwood, please click here.

Westwood Wire
The Westwood Wire is a monthly e-newsletter that includes news provided by the Town and information from local groups and organizations within the community. 

To subscribe to the Westwood Wire, please click here.

Westwood Word
The Westwood Word is the town's new and improved print publication to be distributed three times per year, April (Spring/Summer), September (Fall), and January (Winter). Westwood Word highlights events, happenings, and news within Westwood through town and community submissions. The Westwood Word will be mailed to all residential homes. 

To see the latest Westwood Word, please click here.

Social Media
Westwood has two social media accounts that are actively updated. You can find us on Facebook and Twitter.

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Website Notifications
Residents have the option to sign up for specific email updates of their choice to stay up-to-date on all town news or just specific information from a particular town board or committee. 

To see subscription options, please click here.

Select Board Seeking Volunteers for Boards and Committees

The following Boards and Committees are actively seeking Members: Housing Partnership Fair Housing Committee Westwood Cultural Council Please click here for more information. Check back often, as we will continue to update vacancies as needed.

International Day of Persons with Disabilities

Did you know...

...that December 3^rd was International Day of Persons with Disabilities?

Human Rights Day

Did you know...

...that December 10^th was Human Rights Day?

The Town of Westwood values and seeks to recognize the diversity of our community. Please reach out to westwoodwire@townhall.westwood.ma.us with any suggestions for these monthly highlights.

Westwood Finance Department

Town Treasurer James J. Gavin stepped down effective September 15, 2022, after dedicating more than 25 years to the Town of Westwood. During Jim’s 20-year tenure as Treasurer, he issued over $170 million in bonds for various school and municipal projects and capital investments. Prior to being elected Treasurer, Jim served on the Finance and Warrant Commission from 1997 to 2002 and was Chair in 2001 and Vice Chair in 2002.  With Jim’s knowledge, expertise, and understanding of municipal bonds, he repeatedly secured bonds at the lowest interest and terms in the best interest of the Town. He oversaw the Treasurer’s Office and its staff working closely with the Finance Director to ensure all the key functions and duties were carried out and automated to best serve the community and its residents. Jim’s recent accomplishments: 2021 - Capitalized on historically low interest rates to again save residents money.   Refunded (refinanced) bonds issued for Thurston Middle School modular classrooms and Library. Saved $1.12 million in interest. 2022 - Issued $60 million bond for new elementary school. As Treasurer, Jim also served and provided valuable guidance on: Aid to the Elderly and Disabled Tax Fund Long Range Financial Planning Committee OPEB Liability Task Force Custodian Tax Title Budget Steering Committee Please join the Westwood Finance Department and other town staff in expressing our sincere thanks to Jim for his many years of service.

Westwood Human Resources Department - Job Opportunities

WESTWOOD RECREATION DEPARTMENT JOB OPENINGS Early Childhood Instructor (Infant, Toddler & Preschool) Seeking instructors to run a variety of fun and enriching Recreation programs for youth ages 0-5 and their families. Instructors will develop and run classes in areas that interest them, e.g., art, science, music, or playgroups!  Most programs run on weekday mornings and/or afternoons.  2-8 hours per week.  Water Safety Instructor –Winter Session Looking for qualified candidates to fill the position of Water Safety Instructor (WSI) for the Winter 2023 session. The WSI will implement all aspects of American Red Cross Learn-to-Swim Programs, ensure patron safety and enforce facility rules and regulations.  Saturdays 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM January through February. Lifeguards Westwood Recreation Department seeks qualified candidates to fill several part-time openings for Lifeguards.  Must be at least 16 years of age with current American Red Cross Lifeguard certification to include CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer and First Aid certification. Weekday and weekend hours are available.  To view the complete job postings and apply:  www.townhall.westwood.ma.us and click on “Jobs”

Westwood Community Choice Electricity Program (CCE)

The Westwood CCE is Coming to Town!

Westwood Community Choice Electricity (CCE) Program Launches with Stable, Competitive Rates and More Renewable Energy in the New Year

The Town of Westwood announces that it will launch its electricity aggregation program, known as Westwood Community Choice Electricity (CCE), in March 2023. The program is designed to provide more electricity options for residents and businesses in Westwood. The program was approved by Westwood’s Town Meeting in 2019 and received final approval from the Department of Public Utilities in late fall 2022. The electricity prices will be fixed over the 21-month term of the electric supply agreement (ESA) from March 2023 through December 2024.

The program will offer a standard product at a rate of 16.710 cents per kWh and include 10% more renewable energy than required by the Commonwealth. The standard product will also cost 42% less than the Eversource Residential Basic Service electricity rate that will be in effect at the time, 25.649 cents per kWh. Future savings under Westwood CCE compared to the Eversource residential Basic Service rate are not guaranteed because the Basic Service rates change every six months for residential and small business accounts and every three months for large business accounts.

The program will also offer two optional products, one with 100% renewable energy content at a rate of 17.85 cents per kWh and one that meets the Commonwealth’s minimum renewable energy requirements (i.e., no additional renewable energy) at a rate of 16.310 per kWh. All additional renewable energy will be provided from MA Class I Renewable Energy Credits (RECs).

In late January 2023, Westwood will initiate a broad-based education and outreach effort to make residents and businesses aware of the upcoming program.

For more information about the program, go to www.WestwoodCCE.com or call (833) 937-3222.

Westwood Town Clerk

2023 Dog Licensing

Dog licensing has begun and continues through March 31, 2023 You must license your dog on an annual basis. You may license your dog online, in person, or, by mail, provided you include a copy of a current rabies certificate and proof of spaying or neutering. Licenses are valid from January 1st, through December 31, 2023. Failure to license your dog on or before March 31, 2023, may result in a fine of $25.00, per town bylaws 184-10, C. (1). If you own more than four (4) dogs, this is considered a “Personal Kennel” per MGL c. 140 §136A. You must file a special permit application through the Zoning Board of Appeals to obtain a license for a kennel.    Please contact the Town Clerk’s office if you no longer have a dog(s) so we can update our records. Licensing Fees $15.00 - Dogs not Neutered or Spayed $10.00 - Dogs Neutered or Spayed $1.00 - Postage Fee, if licensing by mail Licensing Fee is waived for residents aged 70 or older, for one dog, per household. If you have any questions, please contact the Town Clerk’s office at 781 326-3964 or email the Town Clerk’s office.

2023 Annual Town Census (Annual Street Listing)

What is the purpose of the annual town census/street list?

Massachusetts General Laws require that cities and towns conduct an annual census of their residents as of January 1st of each year. The local census data is used to maintain voting and jury lists as well as aid in school enrollment projections, public safety, senior citizens’ needs, veterans’ benefits, and proof of residency.

A census form will be mailed to every household in early January 2023.

It is extremely important that you fill out the census form and return it within 10 days of its receipt.  You may also scan and email your completed and signed form to census@townhall.westwood.ma.us.

Failure to return the Annual Town Census may cause a voter to be designated as inactive on the voting list (M.G.L, Ch.51, § 4).

Please note - you may not register to vote or change parties via a census form.  

For information on how to register to vote or change political parties please click here.

VOTING BY MAIL

Click here to download a "Vote by Mail" application

In 2022 a new election law was passed to allow every registered voter in Massachusetts the opportunity to vote by mail, without needing an excuse to do so. To vote by mail, you will need to submit a new request annually, which would apply to all elections taking place during that calendar year.

• The Annual Town Election will be held on Tuesday, April 25, 2023
• The Annual Town Meeting will be held on Monday, May 1, 2023
• Nomination papers will be available in the Town Clerk’s office beginning Tuesday, January 10, 2023, for those registered Westwood voters who wish to run for Town elected positions.
• The last day to obtain nomination papers is 5:00 PM, Friday, March 3, 2023.
• For residents who are not registered voters, the last day to register to vote to participate in the Annual Town Election and the Annual Town Meeting is Friday, April 14, 2023.
• To vote by mail, apply with the Town Clerk on or before 5:00 PM, Tuesday, April 18, 2023.

The following elected offices will appear on the 2023 Annual Town Election Ballot:

• Board of Assessors - 1 Seat, 3-Year Term
• Collector of Taxes-1 Seat, 3-Year Term (term subject to change, pending possible charter change)
• Library Trustee - 2 Seats, 3-Year Term
• Moderator - 1 Seat, 1-Year Term
• Planning Board - 1 Seat, 3-Year Term
• School Committee - 2 Seats, 3-Year Term
• Select Board - 1 Seat – 3-Year Term
• Sewer Commission - 1 Seat, 3-Year Term

Westwood Public Schools

Hanlon-Deerfield Elementary Building Project

Construction on the Elementary Building Project is ongoing! For information regarding the Elementary Building Project, please visit www.westwoodschoolbuilding.com  If you have any questions, please email hanlondeerfieldproject@westwood.k12.ma.us

Notice of Destruction of Special Education Records Attention Former Students, Eligible (Adult) Students, Parents/Guardians: Individual Student Special Education records which have been collected by the Westwood Public Schools related to the identification, evaluation, educational placement, or the provision of Special Education in the district, must be maintained under state and federal laws for a period of seven years after Special Education services have ended for the student. Special Education services end when the student no longer is eligible for services, graduates, completes their educational program at age 22, or moves from the district. This notification is to inform former students and parents/guardians of Westwood Public Schools’ intent to destroy the Special Education records effective March 1, 2023 of students who are no longer receiving Special Education services and whose birth year is 1997 or 1998 or graduated/turned 22 during the 2015-2016 school year.  These records will be destroyed in accordance with state law unless the eligible (adult) student or parent/guardian notifies the school district otherwise.  If you are interested in receiving your special education records, please contact the Student Services Office to make an appointment to pick up their records at the District Administration building by providing the student's name, date of birth and contact phone number:       Call:   781-326-7500 x1345        Email:   Lplouffe@westwood.k12.ma.us    Your request for the original file must be received by February 28, 2023 If you need this information translated, please copy and paste it into Google Translate.  The link to Google translate is http://translate.google.com/ Spanish Si necesita que se le traduzca esta información, por favor, copie y pegue en Google Translate. El enlace de Google Translate es http://translate.google.com/ Chinese 如果您需要翻译此信息，请复制并将其粘贴到Google翻译中。指向Google翻译的链接是http://translate.google.com/ Arabic إذا كنت بحاجة إلى ترجمة هذه المعلومات فالرجاء نسخها ولصقها في ترجمة Google. الرابط إلى ترجمة Google هو    http://translate.google.com/

Westwood Public Safety Communications

Westwood Public Safety Communications

As the holiday giving season falls upon us, please remember that many gifts contain new technology that are capable of automatically calling 911. These tech gifts include smaller items such as smart-watches, smart-phones, and smart-home systems. In addition, a growing number of new cars are being built with crash-detection capabilities.

We want to remind residents that whenever they, or their device call 911 they must stay on the phone until they speak with a live person. Our 911 dispatchers are eager to speak with all callers, and confirm that they are safe.

Often smart device users think they hang up before the call is processed by the device when actually the technology works faster than their hands. When a 911 call comes into the Emergency Communication Center and no one's on the other end of the call, the 911 dispatcher must investigate if the caller is in trouble or if it was an accidental call. This investigative process takes time, and resources away from a real emergency that may be happening at the same time.

Remember, accidentally calling 911 is not a crime. Our 911 dispatchers are eager to speak with you, and are always available to help in your time of need!

Happy Holidays!

Westwood Fire Department

Winter Safety Winter is here and the Fire Department would like to remind you of some very important safety information. Home fires occur more in the winter than in any other season. Here are some things to keep in mind as the weather gets colder. Home heating systems can produce carbon monoxide so it’s very important to have them professionally maintained and to test your carbon monoxide detectors monthly. Never use your oven, gas, or electric, as a source of heat. If you are using space heaters make sure they are on a solid flat surface and keep them at least 3 ft. from any flammable objects. Make sure the cords are not cracked or broken and never use an extension cord with them. Plug only one, heat-producing appliance, like a space heater into an electrical outlet at a time. It's important to shovel out the fire hydrant closest to your property. Every minute matters when there’s a building fire. If firefighters have to shovel out hydrants, that’s precious time that could have been used saving lives and property. Winter storms can cause power outages and portable generators can come in handy. Always keep generators outside as far away from the house and windows as possible. Chimneys should be cleaned and checked annually by a qualified professional. Cooled ashes should be stored outside in a covered, metal container at least 10 feet from any buildings. Hypothermia is a dangerous, potentially life-threatening condition that is the result of your body temperature getting too low. Keeping your thermostat setting between 68 & 70 degrees, wearing loose layers, changing out of wet clothes, and limiting the amount of time spent outdoors will help you stay warm and avoid hypothermia. Have a safe winter!

Westwood Department of Public Works

December 1^st – March 31^st Overnight Parking Ban/Restrictions       

Beginning December 1^st – March 31^st, there is a Town wide overnight parking ban.  In order to ensure snow plows can efficiently clear roads and emergency vehicles can quickly reach their destinations, it is imperative that you do not park on the street.  The Assistant Director of Public Works or the Chief of Police may remove or cause to be removed any vehicle interfering with removing or plowing snow or ice, from any public way.  Violators of the overnight parking ban are subject to ticketing and towing.  Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

Snow Removal Information and What You Can Do to Help

Snow Clearing and Clearing of Hydrants:
Please do not lay, throw, place any snow or ice on any town street, sidewalk or on top of Hydrants as this can create a hazardous condition of public safety concern.

• 355-5 Placement of snow or ice; penalty.

1. No person other than an employee in the service of the Town of Westwood or an employee in the service of an independent contractor acting for the Town of Westwood shall pile, push, plow, or blow snow or ice onto or across a public way which is plowed and/or sanded by the Town or deposit snow in such a way as to obstruct the operation of any fire hydrant. Violations of this section shall be subject to a written warning for the first offense; a fine of $50 for the second offense; and $100 for third and each subsequent offense.

Please remove all basketball hoops, sports nets, etc. from the roadway.

Storm Drain Clearing:
There are over 2,200 catch basins (storm drains) in town, making it nearly impossible to clear snow and debris from them all.  It would be appreciated if you could keep the drain in front of your property clear to prevent street puddling or ice hazards.

Town Layout:
Nothing damaged by the snow plows that is constructed, built or placed on the Town layout will be repaired or replaced, i.e.: mailboxes, fences, stonewalls, etc.

During inclement weather check the Recycle Coach App or town website for trash & recycle collection delays and updates.

No DELAYS this year for Trash & Recycle collections on Christmas and New Year’s Day holidays.

Click here for the 2023 Trash & Recycling Services guidelines. 

• Textiles, mattress and box springs have been added to the Mass DEP’s (3/25/22) Waste Ban List effective November 1, 2022.  Meaning textiles, mattresses and box springs will no longer be accepted at curbside, transfer stations, landfills or waste to energy facilities for ultimate disposal.
• Trash and Recycle barrels are the property of the Town of Westwood and cannot be moved from the residence and it is the property owner’s responsibility to maintain and clean the barrels.

Everything (trash/recycle/yard waste/bulk, etc.) to be collected must be at curbside by 7 AM on your scheduled day.  Any missed pick-ups that were at curbside by 7 AM need to be reported to dpw@townhall.westwood.ma.us or 781-251-2587 within 24 hours of your scheduled day.

Department of Public Works updates can be found here.

Westwood Board of Health

Winter Safety Tips from the MA Department of Public Health (DPH) Winter in Massachusetts almost always includes periods of extreme cold weather. Exposure to cold can cause frostbite or hypothermia and has the potential to become life-threatening. Although anyone can suffer from cold-related health issues, some people are at greater risk than others, such as: older adults, young children,  those who are sick, and those without adequate shelter. To reduce the risks of extreme cold conditions, take the proper safety precautions to protect yourself and your family. Wind Chill Advisories and Warnings The National Weather Service issues wind chill advisories and warnings to alert the public of potential extreme temperatures. Learn more about the Wind Chill Index. Wind Chill Advisory - Wind chill index between -15°F and -24°F for at least three hours. Wind Chill Warning - Wind chill index below -25°F for at least three hours. What to do before extreme cold weather hits:  Be Informed by receiving alerts, warnings, and public safety information before, during, and after emergencies. Learn how to make a Family Emergency Plan that addresses the needs of your family and prepares your family to safely evacuate or shelter in place. Assemble an emergency kit. Prepare your home for possible emergencies. Preparing and strengthening your home can not only protect your property during disasters — it can also add value to your home. Ensure your vehicle is ready for safe winter driving. Follow safe driving practices if you must travel during winter storms. Make sure your pets are ready for cold weather. What you can do during extremely cold weather: Continue to check the media for emergency information and follow instructions from public safety officials. Reduce outdoor activities for the whole family, including pets. Dress in several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight clothing instead of a single heavy layer. Outer garments should be tightly woven and water-repellent. Wear a hat, mittens (not gloves), and sturdy waterproof boots to protect your arms, legs, hands, and feet. Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs. Follow recommended safety precautions when using space heaters, a fireplace, or a woodstove to heat your home. Keep a fire extinguisher handy. Make sure emergency generators or secondary heating is well-ventilated. If you lose heating, move into a single room. At night, cover windows and external doors with extra blankets or sheets. Wrap pipes in insulation or layers of newspapers covered in plastic to prevent them from freezing. Let a trickle of warm water run from a faucet to keep water moving through your pipes. If your pipes freeze, open all faucets all the way, remove any insulation, and heat the frozen pipe with a hair dryer or wrap it with towels soaked in hot water. Never use an open flame to thaw pipes. Check with your local authorities or call 2-1-1 to find warming centers or shelters near you. In the event of a power outage, you may need to take extra precautions or go to an emergency shelter to stay warm. Know the symptoms of and watch out for cold-related illnesses. Call 9-1-1 to report emergencies. Be a good neighbor. Check on family, friends, and neighbors, especially the elderly, those who live alone, those with medical conditions, and those who may need extra help. What to look for in cold-related illnesses: Frostbite is the freezing of the skin and body tissue. Symptoms — Loss of feeling and a white or pale appearance in extremities, such as fingers, toes, earlobes, face, and the tip of the nose. Treatment — Get the victim into a warm location. Cover exposed skin, but do not rub the affected area. Seek medical attention immediately. Hypothermia is an abnormally low body temperature and is life-threatening. Symptoms — Shivering, exhaustion, confusion, memory loss, and slurred speech. Treatment — If symptoms of hypothermia are detected take the person’s temperature. If it is below 95°, seek medical attention immediately. Get the victim to a warm location. Remove wet clothing. Warm the center of the body first by wrapping the person in blankets or putting on dry clothing. Give them warm, non-alcoholic beverages if they person is conscious.

Westwood Islington Branch Library

The Islington Branch Library is located at 273 Washington Street (Wentworth Hall).  Islington Branch Library hours are as follows: Mondays:       10:00 am to 6:00 pm Tuesdays:      10:00 am to 6:00 pm Wednesdays: 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Thursdays:     10:00 am to 6:00 pm

Westwood Main Public Library

Westwood Poet Laureate Applications- Open till Jan. 15th

POET LAUREATE OF WESTWOOD 

Purpose and roles:
The primary goal of the Westwood Poet Laureate is to promote public awareness of poetry in the town. To do so, the Poet Laureate’s duties are the following:

• To encourage the reading and writing of poetry by creating programs and holding events for the town, such as workshops for writers, readings, poetry slams, and other events throughout the town and its schools.
• To write several annual seasonal poems for local events and holidays.
• To select and mentor the Westwood Teen Poet Laureate, an annual position; applications for the first Teen Poet Laureate will be open in April 2023, and selected in May 2023.

The Poet Laureate is a role open to residents of Westwood, employees of the town, and individuals with a history of public service to the town. While publication history is taken into account, the role is not limited to individuals with publications.

Duration:
The Poet Laureate will serve a two-year term (2023 – 2025) with an annual stipend of $500, which is funded by the WPL 21st Century Fund. The Laureate will be appointed by the Westwood Select Board following a recommendation form a selection committee. The position can be renewed for additional terms following a deliberation process involving the Poet Laureate, selection committee, and Select Board.

How to apply:
To apply, please send an email to Westwoodpoetlaureate@townhall.westwood.ma.us with your contact information and with the following attached as PDFs:

• A cover letter of no more than two pages describing your plans for the position.
• A Curriculum Vitae. 
• A writing sample of five to ten pages.

Submissions open now to January 15th, 2023.

Selection process:
The selection committee will review applications beginning January 15th and the Westwood Select Board will appoint the Westwood Poet Laureate in February, 2023. The committee, composed of representatives of the town’s Public Schools, Youth and Family Services, Library Trustees, Westwood Cultural Council, Friends of the Library, and poets in the community, will support the Poet Laureate as they assume the role and its responsibilities. During the review process, the committee will evaluate the poet’s (1) plans for public service in the role, (2) history of promoting poetry, and (3) poetic merit, exemplified in their written sample. The committee will submit their recommendation to the Westwood Select Board for approval. 

Written by Westwood Poet Laureate Selection Committee

Funded by the WPL 21st Century Fund

December 2022

Westwood Council on Aging

JANUARY UPDATES FROM THE COA Winter is here and brrr … it is cold outside, but it is warm and welcoming here at the Center.  With over 18 regular programs and lots of special programs, we try to offer a little something for everyone. With the winter weather upon us, we are partnering with the Westwood Fire Department Emergency Response Team to make sure that we can get in touch with you, in case of long-term electrical outages, blizzard conditions, or other emergencies.  Please fill out the form in our January/February newsletter so we know how to contact you.  This form and File of Life Cards are also available at the Center so stop by and pick one up. MEALS ON WHEELS Any Westwood resident 65 or older needing a daily meal, please call HESSCO at 781-784-4944.  If you are feeling food insecure, please let us know, we will confidentially help you! TRANSPORTATION Rides are offered to the grocery stores on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, medical appointments on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, and errands on Mondays and Fridays. All rides must be scheduled at least 48 business hours in advance. WESTWOOD COA IS ON FACEBOOK AND WE WOULD LOVE YOU FOLLOW US!!! Stay up to date with what is happening here at the Center. Sign up at https://www.facebook.com/WestwoodCOA and LIKE or FOLLOW us!  We will continue to mail your bi-monthly newsletter.

Last Thursday, 48 gift bags, filled with beautiful, donated goods (socks, mittens, candy, scarves, puzzle books, toiletries etc.) were delivered to homebound at-risk elders.  We are so blessed to have Ms. Wambolt's, sixth grade class and the Integrated Preschool donate these items to help us make the holidays a bit more cheerful for elders in our community.  We received many "thank you" phone messages, truly making us feel that the holiday spirit is alive and well. At right - Santa's helpers, Paul Kelly and Matt Tucke!

SPECIAL PROGRAMS AT THE SENIOR CENTER IN JANUARY

HESSCO Nutritionist at the Center - Nutritionist Kelsey
Discuss healthy eating, recipes, diabetes, heart disease, and other nutritional subjects.

• Thursdays: January 5 & February 2
• Please sign up for an appointment. 1:30-3:30 p.m.
• Free

Lunch and Learn - Sponsored by Big Y Pharmacy
Cough and Cold Remedies
Join us to hear a discussion by pharmacist, Eddie Martucci, on cough and cold remedies and possible drug interactions and common adverse side effects.  He will discuss common bacterial and viral germs and when to visit the doctor.  A light lunch will be served.

• Monday, January 30^th at 12:00 noon
• Please sign up in advance.
• $4 donation

FILE OF LIFE CARDS
The "File of Life" program provides life-saving information to medical personnel in the event of an emergency.  The File of Life is an information card that one can list medical conditions, allergies, medications, doctors’ contact information, emergency contacts, recent surgeries, and more.  The card is attached to a red vinyl sleeve with a magnet, that can be posted on your refrigerator or other highly visible place.  A pocket-sized version to keep in a wallet or purse is also included.  The File of Life allows paramedics to quickly administer the correct treatment. 

We encourage all Westwood residents to stop by the Center to pick up a free, "File of Life" for themselves and  loved ones.  The program is underwritten by the Friends of the Westwood Council on Aging.

Westwood Woman's Club- with Margaret
Come join this growing, fun group of women who meet each month and host a different speaker.

This month... The Secret Life of Birds in Winter – Sean Kent, Audubon Naturalist
Learn about the marvelous adaptations and secret life of birds in and around Westwood.  Learn how they survive and thrive in our winter world. Find out how chickadees and other birds find and store food, survive in the cold, and about other fascinating insights into their lives.

• Thursday, January 19^th
• 1:00 p.m., in the dining room
• Please sign up in advance.
• $3 donation

COOKING CLASSES AT POWISSET FARM – Chef Thi
No need to “wing it”, we’ve got you covered. Join us for a crash course in all things wings. Chef Thi will teach how to make pork stuffed, Thai wings with a chili glaze, grilled Tandoori wings with a cool cucumber yogurt Raita, and spicy Caribbean Jerk wings. Now you’re flying!

• Thursday, January 12^th
• 11:00 a.m. at Powisset Farm
• Please sign up in advance, beginning Wednesday, December 28th at 8:00 a.m.
• $25 per class

No take-home food is allowed and we cannot accommodate food allergies or dietary restrictions.

INDOOR GARDENING WITH SUZIE – Paperwhites
Creating a beautiful bulb terrarium is the perfect way to ring in the New Year!  Join Suzie for an entertaining and educational, hands-on crafting session to design your very own paperwhite, miniature garden. These fragrant blooms are a symbol of "Hope" and "Faith" which are fantastic themes to begin 2023. Keep for yourself or gift to a friend. These pretty flowers will keep you smiling through the wintery months of winter. 

• Friday, January 20th
• 10:00 a.m. at the Center
• Please sign up in advance.
• $4 donation (includes all materials) 

ALL THINGS CHOCOLATE
The Baker Chocolate Company: A Sweet History - Historian Anthony Sammarco
In 1765, Dr. James Baker of Dorchester stumbled upon Irishman John Hannon crying on the banks of the mighty Neponset River. Hannon, though penniless, possessed the rare skills required to create chocolate, a delicacy exclusive to Europe, and Baker, with pockets bursting, wished to make a name for himself. Using a mill powered by the same river upon which they met, the duo-built America's oldest and most beloved manufacturer of this rich treat. Local historian Anthony Sammarco details the delicious saga of Massachusetts's Baker Chocolate Company, from Hannon's mysterious disappearance and the famed La Belle Chocolatier advertising campaign, to cacao bean smuggling sparked by Revolutionary War blockades. Both bitter and sweet, this tale is sure to tickle your taste buds and of course, we will have chocolate for everyone to enjoy!

• February 7, 2023
• 10:00 a.m. at the Library
• Please sign up in advance.
• $4 donation

NEW DINNER CLUB!
DINNER AT CHIARA
Enjoy great food and make new friends.

• Wednesday, February 8^th, 5:00 p.m.
• Chiara Restaurant - 569 High Street
• Sign up in advance, with payment, beginning on Tuesday, January 3^rd
• $60 per person includes meal, tax, and gratuity
• Payment must be made no later than Wednesday, February 1^st

Dinner includes soup (roasted tomato & fennel bisque with a basil drizzle), pan-roasted, free-range chicken piccata with white wine, lemon, and capers, artichoke and parmesan risotto, garlicky French green beans, and a dessert trio of mini crème Brulee, a dark chocolate peppermint truffle and white chocolate macadamia nut cookie.  The price includes a choice of beer or glass of Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Tuscan Red Blend, Pinot Noir, or Malbec. So, grab your spouse or a friend, or just come alone to meet new and interesting seniors!

AARP TAX HELP
AARP Tax Aides will be on hand to assist with tax preparation for low or moderate-income seniors who will need help preparing 2022 Federal and Mass income tax forms. APPOINTMENTS FILL UP FAST - please call the Center and schedule your appointment soon. Please bring your 2020 and 2021 taxes, Social Security card, and all other necessary information with you. An Intake/Interview sheet must be completed prior to your appointment.  Drop by the Center and pick one up or we can mail one to you if time permits.

• Mondays beginning February 27 - April 10
• By appointment, 9:00 a.m. -1:00 p.m.
• Please sign up in advance.

The Friends of the Westwood Council on Aging recently hosted its Annual Holiday Party at Norfolk Golf Club. Marvelous food and drink, delightful company and fun giveaways were enjoyed by all, while listening to the music of the Gilded Harps. Raffle winners were drawn and announced by members of the Select Board, State Representative Paul McMurtry and other town officials. Raffle winners received exceptional gift baskets donated by Samuel, Sayward and Baler, Dedham Saving, Benchmark, Porsche Westwood, The Linden at Dedham, Roche Bros, Walpole Cooperative Bank; Wegmans; Beacon Communities; Powisset Farm and Folsom Funeral Home. At right: Westwood seniors enjoyed the holiday festivities.

WONDER WORKOUT with Stephanie and Priscilla

Need some inspiration to get back in shape?  This high-energy class is exactly what you need.  Please wear comfortable clothing and bring a water bottle. 2023 is the year to get back in shape. No class on Jan.2,16 & Feb. 20.

• Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays
• 8:00 - 9:00 a.m.
• $3 donation

PILATES with Mary

Pilates is done primarily on a mat and will strengthen your core and abs.  Please bring a water bottle, and floor mat and wear comfortable clothing.  No class on February 14.

• Tuesdays 10:00 a.m.
• Thursdays 10:30 a.m.
• $3 donation

TAI CHI with Scotty

The purpose of Qi Gong & T'ai Chi is to add practices to people’s everyday lives that promote health, mental well-being, and an increase in self-awareness. It has evolved over the centuries to focus less on self-defense and more on healing. No class on February 14.

• Tuesdays 1:00 p.m.
• $3 donation

So come join us! We are warm and welcoming and would love to meet you!

Westwood Recreation Department

Westwood Youth and Family Services

Westwood Children Supported with Holiday Giving Program

This December, for the 21st year in a row, Westwood Youth & Family Services managed the Holiday Giving Program for the town. The WY&FS Holiday Giving Program connects local sponsors with Westwood families and families of Westwood Public School students in need of support during the holidays.  This year, forty-six families and a total of ninety-seven children were supported due to the generous donations of Westwood residents and businesses. Sponsors provided holiday gifts for children through a confidential program coordinated by the department.  WY&FS happily distributed hundreds of gifts.

WY&FS would like to thank the many Westwood residents along with the following businesses and organizations for their support of the program: Dedham Savings Bank, The Rotary Club of Westwood, Orange Theory Fitness of Westwood, Girl Scouts Troops 64055, 67207, 62277, The Tobin School of Westwood, and the Westwood Children’s School. Thanks also to the students and families of Deerfield Elementary and Thurston Middle School 8^th graders for their generous donation of small gifts and stocking stuffers.

For more information regarding WY&FS Holiday Giving and/or our Birthday Giving Program please contact, Mary Ellen LaRose at mlarose@townhall.westwood.ma.us.

For more information, please visit our website:

https://www.townhall.westwood.ma.us/departments/youth-family-services 

Westwood Integrated Preschool

Westwood Youth Lacrosse

Westwood Youth Softball

Westwood Girl Scouts

Eversource

Town of Westwood

www.townhall.westwood.ma.us

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