Watertown SEPAC Hosting Local Director of Federation for Children with Special Needs

Watertown SEPAC invites the public to a meeting with the project director of the MassPAC, a project Federation for Children with Special Needs. Leslie M. Leslie joined the MassPAC project at the Federation for Children with Special Needs in February of 2011 – a role which includes providing technical assistance to Special Education Parent Advisory Council leaders, coordinating Leadership Institutes, monitoring the statewide MassPAC Listserve, maintaining the membership database and MassPAC website and writing educational materials. The Federation for Children with Special Needs is a nationally recognized 501(c)(3) organization that advocates for quality education, parent participation, and access to quality health care services for all children, especially those with disabilities. Leslie is the mother of two young adult sons, both of whom face learning challenges. Leslie holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations and Political Science from Tufts University and a J.D. from Suffolk University Law School.

Free Workshop on Health Aging Hosted by Alzheimer’s Association

The Alzheimer’s Association announced it will host a free workshop on healthy aging on Tuesday, Dec. 13 from 4-5:30 p.m., at the Alzheimer Association, 480 Pleasant Street, Watertown. 

Healthier Living for Your Brain and Body, will address research in the areas of diet and nutrition, exercise, cognitive activity, and social engagement to promote a brain-healthy lifestyle. The workshop will provide hands-on tools to help incorporate recommendations into a plan for healthy aging. To register or for more information call 800-272-3900 or visit alz.org/MANH. The Alzheimer’s Association, with headquarters in Watertown, has regional offices in Springfield, Raynham, and Worcester, MA and Bedford, NH. The Alzheimer’s Association provides services and programs for those with Alzheimer’s, family and professional caregivers in the form of support groups, a 24/7 Helpline, care consultation, advocacy efforts, research funding and education programs.

Dependable Cleaners Supporting Cradles to Crayons Coat Drive

Dependable Cleaners is proud to announce its support of Cradles to Crayons, a nonprofit organization that equips children from birth through age 12 living in homeless or low-income situations with the essential items they need to thrive – at home, at school, and at play, for its winter initiative, according to the company’s announcement. Now through Dec. 31, 2016 Dependable Cleaners locations will host in-store coat collections to support Cradles to Crayons and its Gear Up for Winter initiative. The program aims to provide families and children with warm winter items necessary for the dropping temperatures and harsh winter season. This year’s program aims to assist 40,000 local children with winter coats, hats, gloves and other winter essentials this season.

OBIT: Eleanor Nixon, 92, Lifelong Watertown Resident, Worked for School System

Eleanor L. (Allers) Nixon of Watertown passed away at the age of 92 after a courageous battle with cancer on Friday, November 18, 2016. She was surrounded by her loving family. Born in Watertown in 1924, she was a graduate of Watertown High School, Class of 1942. Widow of the late Samuel B. Nixon (former Captain Watertown Fire Department). Mother of Judi Nixon Holmberg of Watertown and Scott D. Nixon (former Call Captain, Avon Fire Department) and his wife Suzanne of Raynham.

OBIT: Jimmy McCarthy, 75, Known for Sense of Humor, Hibernian Member

A funeral service for James L. “Jimmy” McCarthy will be held on Tuesday November 22, 2016 at the MacDonald Rockwell & MacDonald Funeral Home, Watertown at 11 a.m.

Jimmy was the only son of the late Francis L. and Mary E. (Wrenn) McCarthy. Jimmy passed away suddenly Friday November 18, 2016. He was 75. Beloved husband of 44 years to Mary Ann (Mastrangelo) McCarthy. Brother-in- law of Joseph Mastrangelo of Winthrop & Thomas Mastrangelo of Danvers.

Mount Auburn Hospital Hosts Freedom from Smoking Series

If you are looking to quit smoking, Mount Auburn Hospital has a program that could help you reach your goal. The hospital sent out the following information:

WHAT:         Mount Auburn Hospital is pleased to host Freedom From Smoking®, a seven-week program developed by the American Lung Association®. This program provides an overview on how to overcome tobacco addiction by addressing the physical, mental and social aspects of addiction. Topics include managing stress, avoiding weight gain, developing a new self image, how to stay smoke free for good and more. WHEN:        Starting Thursday, January 5, 2017 from 5:30pm-7pm.

Watertown Groups Hold Event on Transgender Personal Stories and Experiences

The World in Watertown and the Social Action Committee of First Parish of Watertown invite the public to a program on Transgender Identities, Thursday, December 1, 2016, 7-9 p.m. at First Parish, 35 Church Street, Watertown, the group announced. While we are seeing more representation of transgender experience in the news and media, many people still have a lot of questions.  A panel of speakers who identify as transgender or are parents of youth who identify as transgender will share their personal experiences and answer audience questions on how best to support and understand transgender people. This program is organized by Missy Mae Sturtevant, Director and Founder of the MaeBright Group, Boston.

Get Ready for the Watertown Tree Lighting Ceremony in the Square

The Watertown-Belmont Chamber of Commerce (WBCC), Rotary Club of Watertown, and the Town of Watertown are pleased to announce that the fifth annual Tree Lighting ceremony will be held on Friday, December 2 in Watertown Square. A reception will follow at the Watertown Savings Bank (WSB) main office in Watertown Square. Santa Claus will arrive to the Square by fire truck at 5:15; the tree will be lit at 5:30; and the reception to follow immediately after at WSB, where attendees will enjoy hot chocolate, cider, refreshments, holiday music with the NEJazz AllStars Holiday Quartet and others, and of course visit with Santa Claus! Parking will be available at WSB after 5 p.m.

“We’re really excited for this year’s tree lighting, and to continue with this wonderful holiday tradition,” said WBCC Executive Director Paul Airasian. New this year: Radio station 105.7 WROR will also be outside in the Square with giveaways, playing music, and a special guest of their own beginning at 4:30 p.m. The Watertown High School acapella group will also be performing outside.