Students from The Guild School Volunteer at the Watertown Food Pantry

Students from The Guild School sort items and put the on the shelves at the Watertown Food Pantry. (Courtesy of The Guild School)

The following piece was provided by The Guild School:

Each week, a group of Guild School students and vocational services staff volunteer at the Watertown Food Pantry. Volunteers sort items into bins, bag vegetables, stock the shelves with food items, and check expiration dates. Students work on travel training skills to get to and from the pantry. The Guild for Human Services serves more than 160 people with intellectual and developmental disabilities annually through educational, residential, and clinical programming.

State Looking for Lifeguards for DCR Pools & Beaches, Offering Bonuses

The DCR’s Dealtry Pool in Watertown. The following information was provided by the Department of Conservation and Recreation:

The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) announced the agency is accepting applications for lifeguards, swim instructors and other pool and waterfront roles across the state for the 2024 summer season. Qualified candidates, who apply early and work through the end of the season, can earn up to $1,250 in bonuses, in addition to a competitive hourly rate of between $22 and $27, dependent on the position and associated certifications. 

“Every summer, we welcome thousands of children and families from all over to our beautiful beaches and pools,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Hiring qualified and trained lifeguard and water safety staff is critical to ensuring we can provide our residents and visitors with a fun, safe and enjoyable summer.”  

“As a former lifeguard, I know firsthand what a great summer job it is – you’ll get to spend your summer outdoors, make good money, and potentially help save some lives,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “DCR lifeguards also become leaders in their communities – they are first responders trained to prevent injuries and calmly and efficiently prevent a crisis at our waterfronts and pools.

Restoration Underway for Historic Paintings from Watertown’s City Hall

1930 geographical painting on treatment table at studio, in bottom section of its foam-core box. (Courtesy of the Historical Society of Watertown)

A group from Watertown recently visited the studio of the art restoration specialist hired to refurbish historic paintings that normally hang in the main entryway in Watertown’s City Hall. Joyce Kelly of the Historical Society of Watertown provided the following account:

The geographical paintings that usually flank the foyer at the main entrance to City Hall are currently in the studio of conservator Louise Orsini being refurbished. In 2022, the Historical Society of Watertown received a grant from the Community Preservation Committee (CPC) for the conservation of the two geographical paintings in the foyer of City Hall. The 5.5 x 7.5 foot paintings were installed when the building opened in 1932.

Charles River Chamber’s Culinary Extravaganza Returns

The Charles River Regional Chamber’s Spring Seasonings features food from the four communities it serves, including Watertown. (Courtesy of Charles River Chamber)

The following announcement was provided by the Charles River Regional Chamber:

The Charles River Regional Chamber is thrilled to announce the return of its most anticipated community event, Spring Seasonings: A Taste of our Towns. After a four-year hiatus, this marquee event promises to be a feast for the senses, bringing together the flavors of Newton, Needham, Watertown and Wellesley in one delightful evening. Event Highlights:

What: Spring Seasonings: A Taste of our Towns

Where: Newton Marriott Ballroom2345 Commonwealth Avenue, Newton

When: Monday, April 8, 5:30-8:00 PMTickets: $75 members / $80 non-members, available now at SpringSeasonings.com (no tickets sold at the door)

Discover the Culinary Diversity of Our Communities: Spring Seasonings is more than just a food event; it’s a celebration of the rich culinary tapestry of our region. Join us for a unique opportunity to savor the offerings of 40 of your favorite local restaurants all at once.

Marshall Home Fund Accepting Applications for Grants to Serve Older Watertown Residents

The Marshall Home Fund announced it is accepting applications for its Program Grants to organizations that serve older Watertown residents.  See the description and guidelines provided by the organization below. Program Grants

We annually award modest program grants to public agencies,  private non-profits, and town departments serving adults 55 and older. The services and programs provided through grant funds must directly benefit Watertown residents. We fund innovative projects to support Watertown’s efforts to be an Age-Friendly Community—a place where older adults can live, thrive and contribute. 

Grant awards are made to fund projects for a twelve (12) month period, which may begin at any time during the calendar year. By awarding any particular grant, the Marshall Home Fund in no way implies that ongoing grants will be made for the same purpose, although recipients may reapply in the future.

Watertown Students Earn Honors at BC High, Thayer

Clipartpanda.com

Students from Watertown made the honor roll at a pair of private schools: BC High and Thayer Academy. The following information was provided by the schools:

Boston College High School

The following students have been named to the Second Quarter Honor Roll at Boston College High School:

Ambrogio Bellotti, High Honors (Class of 2024)

Isaac Campolon, High Honors (Class of 2024)

William MacKerron, High Honors (Class of 2025)

Emiliano Pedroza, High Honors (Class of 2025)

Owen Driscoll, High Honors (Class of 2026)

Thomas Moloney, High Honors (Class of 2027)

Robert DiStefano, Honors (Class of 2027)

For High Honors a Sophomore and Junior must have at least a 3.80 quality point average and all grades “C+” or higher. Freshmen need a 3.6 quality point average and all grades “C+” or higher. For Honors a Sophomore and Junior must have at least a 3.20 quality point average and all grades “C-” or higher. Freshmen need a 3.165 quality point average and all grades “C-” or higher.

Watertown MusicFest: More Than 50 Acts on 3 Stages

The following announcement was provided by Friends of Watertown Music:

Friends of Watertown Music invites you to attend our 11th Annual MusicFest, on Friday, March 15. Doors open at 5:15 and musical performances run from 5:30 to 9:00 p.m., at the Watertown Middle School. 

MusicFest is a fun community event, offering something for everyone! The event features over 50 performances, across 3 stages. The variety of music genres includes folk, jazz, opera, classical, acoustic and electric. Performances run from 5 to 20 minutes, so attendees will have the chance to go around and see as many acts as they wish.

Watertown Library Hosting Legislative Breakfast

Watertown LibraryThe Watertown Free Public Library. The Watertown Free Public Library announced it will host local elected officials during an upcoming Legislative Breakfast. The Library sent out the following announcement:

You are cordially invited to Watertown’s Library Legislative Breakfast on March 22, 2024 at 8:30 a.m. Breakfast pastries and beverages will be available at 8:30 a.m. The guest of honor is State Sen. Will Brownsberger. Our program begins at 9 a.m. We will offer a tour of the Bookmobile and building afterwards, at approximately 9:30 a.m.

Attending legislative breakfasts is a great way to show your support for libraries and speak with local elected officials. We would love to see you.