FEMA and FCC Running Nationwide Cellular Emergency Alert Test on Wednesday

The following information was provided by FEMA:

FEMA, in coordination with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), will conduct a national test of the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) on Oct. 4, 2023. About the National Test

The national test will help ensure that Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) and the Emergency Alert System (EAS) continue to be effective ways to warn the public about emergencies, particularly those on the national level. All major U.S. wireless providers participate in Wireless Emergency Alerts and will transmit the national test to their subscribers. If your mobile phone is on and within range of an active cell tower from a participating wireless provider, you should receive the national test.

LETTER: A Good Week for Democracy in Watertown

By Linda ScottWatertown Resident

Are We There Yet? No, but we’re inching closer …

More Community Involvement

Last week was a good week for democracy in Watertown! On Wednesday night there was a meeting of the Committee on Economic Development and Planning in regard to expanding community meetings for big developments in Watertown. Although I think that there could have been a better structure for the meeting, it was still greatly appreciated. And I think that it was nothing but a show of community disrespect for the Director of the Department of Community Development and Planning Steven Magoon to dash off his suggestions at the very last minute, not posting them for the public to review.

City Works Supporting Breast Cancer Research with Hops for Hope

The following announcement was provided by City Works Eatery & Pour House:

In October, City Works Eatery and Pour House in Watertown is partnering with Boston Beer Co. to support Breast Cancer research through Hops for Hope. For every purchase of Angry Orchard Hard Cider and Boston Lager sold throughout the month, both companies will each donate $1. All money raised will be donated to the Lynn Sage Foundation which is seeking better breast cancer outcomes by funding innovative research. 

Since 2007, the organization has provided over $1.8 million to support researchers working to improve the prevention and treatment of breast cancer. City Works also offers 90+ craft beers on tap, including rotating handles for rare, limited and seasonal brews.  

Find out more about the Lynn Sage Foundation by clicking here.

Discussion of War in Ukraine, Potential Consequences at Event Tonight in Watertown

The following announcement was provided by Watertown Citizens for Peace, Justice & the Environment:

Dr. Joseph Gerson of Watertown will speak on about the events preceding the illegal Russian invasion of Ukraine, the immediate consequences of the war, the possible use of nuclear weapons, and what can be done to end the death and destruction. There will be ample time for questions and discussion. The event is in person. WHAT: Take Action for Peace in Ukraine – Ceasefire and Diplomacy, Not More War

WHEN: Tuesday, October 3 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

WHERE: First Parish on 35 Church Street in Watertown

Plenty of Parking in the Municipal Lot behind CVS

WCA-TV Channels Have Changed for Comcast Subscribers

The following information was provided by Watertown Cable Access Television:

Please be advised that WCA-TV’s channels on Comcast, also called Xfinity, have changed to the following:

Education – 8 and 1071

Public – 9 and 1075

Government – 22 and 1076

We currently are troubleshooting issues with channel 8, but you can still view the education channel on channel 1071. If you are experiencing any other issues or outages with these channels, please call 1-800-XFINITY.

Flu Shots Available at the Watertown Senior Center

The following information is provided by the City of Watertown:

The Watertown Public Health Department is offering the influenza vaccine to Watertown Senior Residents at the Watertown Senior Center, located at 31 Marshall Street, on Friday, October 6, 2023 and Friday, October 13, 2023 from 2 to 4 p.m.

Senior residents can register here to sign up an appointment and secure their dose. Please bring your ID and health insurance card(s) with you (if you have insurance). Please wear loose or short sleeves if possible. If you have any problems signing up for your flu shot online, please call the Health Department at 617-972-6446, Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., and they will help you.

DPW Hosting Halloween Costume & Clothing Swap Event

The following announcement was provided by the City of Watertown:

Save the date for the Halloween Costume and Clothing Swap, and General Clothing/Textile Recycling Turn-in Event. The Department of Public Works (DPW) is hosting a spooky-themed costume swap, and general clothing and textile recycling event. This is an EVENING event on Thursday, October 26, 2023 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the DPW parking lot, located at 124 Orchard St. Bring your old Halloween costumes to swap and give them a new life! Come look for this year’s costume.

Library’s Watertown Zine Fest to Gather DIY Creators and Publishers for Third Year

The following announcement was provided by the Watertown Free Public Library:

On Saturday, October 14, the Watertown Free Public Library (WFPL) will host the third-annual Watertown Zine Fest — a celebration of DIY publishing, creativity, and idea sharing. This year, festival highlights will include over forty zinester-vendors from near and far, a “zine-making hive” where anyone can get creative, and guest lectures that explore the intersection of zines, mental health, and Indigenous perspectives. As always, the event is free to all. Not sure what a zine is? No problem!