Talk of the Town - Winthrop, MA

Winthrop Public School Building Survey

2011-07-25T07:14:00.000-07:00

The Winthrop Public Schools will conduct a community survey in regards to our school Rebuilding Process. The survey will begin Monday, July 25th and end on Monday August 8th. The survey will assist the School Building Committee with which options to explore for the Feasibility Study for Winthrop High School. In addition, the School Building Committee will conduct two public heargins. The dates are Thursday, August 11th at 7pm and Tuesday August 16th at 7pm. Both public hearings will be held in the Harvey Room at Town Hall.

^{Background

The Town of Winthrop submitted a request to the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) in 2006 for the renovation of Winthrop High School. The MSBA subsequently voted to invite Winthrop into the MSBA's captial pipeline for a repair project at WHS in Oct 2007. In recent months the School Building Committee has acknowledged that both the WHS and Winthrop Middle School are in need of major repaire/renovation. The Town would like to explore the possibility of constructing a Middle-High School complex as opposed to renovating the existing buildings. In March 2011, a letter was sent to MSBA requesting that Winthrop be allowed to explore the combined Middle-High School options, in addition to renovation, as part of the feasibility scope. MSBA recently respond to the Town, that in order for us to add this as another option to explore, we must conduct an outreach to gauge community support. Therefore we ask that you complet the survey on either the town of School website so the Building Committee can gauge our community support. Please note all we are asking is whether you wish for the committee to explore this option.}

^{Click here to take survey}

Compost OPEN on Bunker Hill Day - Friday, June 17th

2011-06-16T08:05:00.001-07:00

Correction: The Compost will be OPEN from 9-12 and 3-6 (regular Friday hours) for this Friday, June 17th, 2011 (Bunker Hill Day)

Over 75 Homes in Winthrop to participate in Town-Wide Yard Sale Saturday

2011-06-09T12:44:00.000-07:00

WINTHROP, MA – There will be a trove of hidden treasures to be found in Winthrop this Saturday, June 11. With over 75 homes doing yard sales in just 1.6 square miles, bargain-hunters will be able to hit a lot of locations in a short amount of time. The Winthrop Chamber of Commerce’s third annual Town-Wide Yard Sale takes place Saturday, June 11 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Free maps with all the locations can be picked up at the Winthrop MarketPlace, Woodside Ace Hardware, or the Chamber office. The event is expected to attract people from far and wide to come and experience all the charm that the Winthrop community has to offer. The day of the yard sale, homes will be adorned with balloons making it easy for shoppers to find locations. Some local businesses are offering special discounts that day.

###

Eric Gaynor
Executive Director
Winthrop Chamber of Commerce
617-846-9898
http://www.winthropchamber.com/

posted on behalf of WCofC by mkaras/MIS

Marina Day celebration in Winthrop this Saturday June 11 10am to 4pm

2011-06-09T12:27:00.000-07:00

Marina Day celebration in Winthrop is this Saturday, kicking off the celebration at 10:00 am will be "It's The Music presents Game Shows To Go." Live, fast- paced, family friendly game shows that make you the star! Face painting with ZeeBree Art, wooden boat coloring for the little ones, nautical items for sale, 50/50 raffle, and much more. Come and see what the youth sailing programs use for boats, and meet the folks from Winthrop Yacht Club, Cottage Park Yacht Club, Winthrop High School Sailing Program, and Crystal Cove Marina.

Hours are: Saturday June 11, 10am - 4pm at Town Landing, 707 Shirley Street.

posted by mkaras/mis

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER

2011-06-09T12:04:00.000-07:00

For Immediate Release

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER

Tests Showed Coliform Bacteria in Winthrop Water

Our water system recently violated a drinking water standard. Although this incident was not an emergency, as our customers, you have a right to know what happened and what we did to correct this situation.

We routinely monitor for drinking water contaminants. We took 30 samples to test for the presence of coliform bacteria during the month of April. Two of our samples showed the presence of total coliform bacteria. The standard is that no more than one sample may do so.

What should I do?
You do not need to boil your water or take other corrective actions.

What does this mean?
This is not an emergency. If it had been you would have been notified within 24 hours. Total coliform bacteria are generally not harmful themselves. Coliforms are bacteria which are naturally present in the environment and are used as an indicator that other, potentially-harmful, bacteria may be present. Coliforms were found in more samples than allowed and this was a warning of potential problems.

Usually, coliforms are a sign that there could be a problem with the system’s treatment or distribution system (pipes). Whenever we detect coliform bacteria in any sample, we do follow-up testing to see if other bacteria of greater concern, such E. coli, are present. We did not find any of these bacteria in our subsequent testing.

What is being done?
On April 28, two samples were positive for total coliform, including one sample that was taken from an alternate site. On April 29, six repeat samples were taken to determine if there was an actual problem, and all came back clear of coliform. Therefore, no further action is required.

For more information, please contact Dave Hickey at 617-846-1341 or at Winthrop DPW, 100 Kennedy Drive, Winthrop, MA, 02152.

* Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place.

Date publicly posted : June 6 , 2011 by DPW
Webposting request on June 8, 2011 by DPW / posted by MIS - MKaras

June 2011 Council on Aging News Letter

2011-06-02T15:37:00.000-07:00

Click Here to download the June 2011 COA News Letter

TOWN HALL PARKING LOT CLOSED

2011-06-02T09:08:00.001-07:00

The Town Hall parking lot will be closed on Friday, 6/3/11 from 7:00am to 11:00am.

Work is being done on the boiler at Town Hall.

Workers and vehicles will be active in that area so the parking lot will be closed off to ensure safety.

Winthrop Public Library & Museum CLOSED on June 6, 2011

2011-06-01T11:52:00.000-07:00

The Winthrop Public Library & Museum will be closed on Monday, June 6, 2011 to complete installation of the new circulation desk and space reorganization. We will reopen on Tuesday, June 7, 2011 at 12 noon.

Alan
Alan Thibeault
Director, Winthrop Public Library & Museum
athibeault@town.winthrop.ma.us
Phone: (617) 846-1703
Fax: (617) 846-7083

2011 Summer Schedule for Winthrop Public Library & Museum

2011-06-01T08:53:00.000-07:00

The Winthrop Public Library & Museum is operating under its summer schedule, effective May 31, 2011:

Monday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. (Children's 1 p.m. - 6 p.m.)

Tuesday: 12 p.m. - 8 p.m. (Children's 1 p.m. - 7 p.m.)

Wednesday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. (Children's 1 p.m. - 6 p.m.)

Thursday: 12 p.m. - 8 p.m. (Children's 1 p.m. - 6 p.m.)

Friday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. (Children's 1:30 p.m. - 6 p.m.)

Saturday & Sunday: CLOSED

This schedule will remain in effect through Labor Day weekend. Our final Children's Story Hour for the season will be held on Friday, June 17th.

Story Hours will resume in October.

--

Alan Thibeault, Director
Winthrop Public Library & Museum
Winthrop, Massachusetts
athibeault@town.winthrop.ma.us
(617) 846-1703

Community Health Needs Assessment Survey from Health Department

2011-05-31T10:35:00.000-07:00

The Health Department needs your input!

Throughout the month of May, the Town of Winthrop will be conducting a Community Health Needs Assessment Survey of community residents to determine what are the health needs and issues affecting residents

Please click here to take the survey http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/LWQZ6H2

Paper copies of the survey are also available at the Senior Center and library. It should only take you 10 minutes to fill out this questionnaire.

At the end of the survey you can enter a drawing to win one of the following prizes: $50 gift card to Stop and Shop; $50 gift card to Winthrop market place; Red Sox tickets; a Resident Parking sticker.

For more information contact:
Town of Winthrop Health Department
healthinfo@town.winthrop.ma.us

Press Release: KRT Appraisal to Assist with Winthrop's Revaluation

2011-05-31T10:09:00.000-07:00

Town of Winthrop Press Release

KRT APPRAISAL TO ASSIST WITH WINTHROP’S REVALUATION

The Town of Winthrop will be undertaking a revaluation update on all properties for Fiscal Year 2012. This update is part of an ongoing process, guided by The Department of Revenue regulations, to maintain proper values for all properties in Winthrop.

There are four major phases to a revaluation update being utilized: Data collection, Market Analysis, Valuation, and Field Review. The following is a general outline and explanation of each phase of the project. During these phases many tasks will be implemented in order to successfully complete the revaluation.

PHASE #1: DATA COLLECTION
KRT Appraisal’s staff will be conducting property inspections over the next couple of months. During this phase, Data Collectors will be going to 951 properties that have not had an inspection within the last nine years and physically inspect the interior and measure the exterior of each building. The Data Collectors note the buildings location, size, age, quality of construction, improvements, topography, utilities, zoning restrictions, if any, and numerous other characteristics both inside and out. To ensure that a home was inspected, the homeowner is asked to sign the data collection form to verify that the inspection took place. The entire process takes approximately 15 minutes for most properties.

All KRT Appraisal staff will carry Picture ID, Municipal Letters of Introduction, and have their vehicles listed with both the Assessor’s Office and Police Department

PHASE 2: MARKET ANALYSIS
A variety of resources are used to analyze the real estate market. Appraisal personnel will be analyzing recent sales that took place over the last few years to determine which market factors influenced property values. KRT Appraisal will gather and use information from The Registry of Deeds, property managers, developers, and local real estate professionals. Once all the data is collected and reviewed for accuracy, the appraiser will determine land values and set Neighborhood codes that rate the desirability of locations throughout the Town.

PHASE 3: VALUATION
Valuation is done using one of the three recognized methods: Replacement/Market Cost, Income Approach and Sales Comparison Approach. The Sales Comparison is the most widely used approach, and most easily explained to the taxpayer. During this phase, individual characteristics of the building are analyzed using information from sale properties. Each property is compared to other properties with similar characteristics. Once the market cost is determined, the improvement value is then added to the land value that was previously determined. This value is the final estimate for each parcel of property, building and land.

PHASE 4: FIELD REVIEW
Field Review is the method of checking and re-checking both the values that have been determined and the data that has been collected. During this review, properties are viewed in the field by experienced appraisers who double-check uniformity and accuracy of information.

After all phases are completed, all data, files, records, etc. used in the revaluation are then turned over to the Assessors Office.

Partial List of Approved Parking on Designated Streets Effective 4PM Today

2011-02-09T13:28:00.000-08:00

Partial List of Approved Parking on Designated Streets Effective 4PM Today

Approved Parking Locations

Partial Parking Ban Lifted for these streets/sections of streets only.

Updated as new streets are cleared and accessible per order of Public Safety.

In EFFECT - Wednesday, February 9, 2011 at 4PM

Street Name -- Parking Allowed On -- Comment

Atlantic Street -- Even side

Bartlett Parkway -- Even side

Bartlett Road -- Even side

Cottage Park Road -- Odd side -- Pleasant to Bartlett Parkway

Cross Street -- Odd side -- Locust to Main

Edge hill Road -- Even side

Fremont Street -- Odd side

Grandview Ave -- Even side

Hagman Road -- Both sides -- Posted time limits apply

French Square -- As posted -- Posted time limits apply

Hermon Street -- Even side

Harvard Street -- Odd side

Ingleside Ave -- Even side

Locust Street -- Odd side

Marshall Street -- Even side

Orlando Ave -- Even side

Palmyra Street -- Odd side

Revere Street -- Odd side -- Upland to Quincy Terr

Somerset Ave -- Even side

Summit Ave -- Odd side -- Prohibited along island

Woodside Ave -- Odd side

Residents are reminded that conditions will require careful consideration with parking on these approved locations, as safe passage on both the street and sidewalks remains a concern. Please use caution and be aware that parking in a manner that obstructs the street, handicap ramps, corners or driveways may be subject to ticketing and towing.

Thank you for anticipated cooperation.

Other streets will be announced as they become cleared and available. At such time, when they do become approved for parking, these new additions will be listed on our website's homepage at http://www.town.winthrop.ma.us. Please check our website periodically for these updates, as well as, WCAT and residents are urged to call the Department of Public Works at 617.846.1341, if they don't have access to WCAT or a Computer.

Public Safety Advisory on Potential Roof Collapses

2011-02-06T10:26:00.000-08:00

To: All Residents, Renters, Landlords, Home Owners, Businesses, Business Owners and/or Management Companies

Date: Sunday, February 6, 2011

Click Here to get the full public safety advisory.

Winthrop asks for all to Help to ....

2011-02-04T15:48:00.000-08:00

... dig out fire hydrants ...

assisting to remove snow and ice from and around hydrants will give seconds to respond for a greater success of fighting a fire

... dig out catch basins ...

if they are blocked with snow and ice, when the snow and ice starts to melt ... streets will flood if there is no where for the water to flow

... dig out your neighbor's car ...

they not be able to due to illness, or they're traveling

... Shovel the sidewalks in front of and around your property (home and business) ...

... Shovel yours and your neighbor's stairs and stoops (home and business) ...

they not be able to due to illness, or they're traveling

and

Be Safe - Michele Karas, AFD/MIS - Town of Winthrop

Winter of Yesteryear in Winthrop, MA ..... Photos provided by Bob Gillis/Facebook/Winthrop

2011-02-04T15:19:00.000-08:00

a time when we did not have plows ....

a time when residents came out to shovel out the town .....

now the center ... wow ... high snow banks .... looks familiar :)

a new way to get around ....

A special thank you as always to Bob Gillis of Winthrop of his great collection of yesteryears of Winthrop ... these are perfect to let us know that the snow mess and frustrations we are encountering is nothing new ....

Thank you .... Be Safe,

Michele Karas, AFD/MIS

DPW Snow REMOVAL / Clean UP Efforts being done while PARKING BAN IS IN EFFECT

2011-02-04T14:04:00.000-08:00

These are some pictures I captured today -- of the snow piles that were being removed today by DPW ... on Shirley Street Winthrop .... the side streets off of WSD towards Shirley were being cleared by the efforts of Winthrop DPW and help from MWRA who was called in to assist ......

shirley street near tafts ave
february 4, 2011 approx. 1:30pm

A snow bank of this size takes

10 to 12 truck loads to take it away ......

I'm 5'3" so that can give you an idea of the size of this snow bank ... not all this small ...

These are the trucks we are using .... the largest DPW has ....

Hauling one load away of many .....
again it takes 10 to 12 loads like this to take away
just one of the snow banks like the one
I am standing in front of (above).

The Parking Ban is Still in EFFECT .... it is so SNOW REMOVAL can be done by this heavy equipment .... this is the best way to removed the snow that has accumulated ... snow plows cannot move or remove the snow is such a manner .... plows push it and sometimes push it back onto sidewalks and into driveways that have been shoveled or snow blown by residents and business owners .... the removal method that DPW is using is the best to remove it out of the area ... because it helps widen the streets and remove the snow so if and when the sun comes out and starts melting it it does not flood streets or even worse freeze when temperatures go down ....

Thank you ... MWRA

There is a cost of this assistance for Winthrop ... just an FYI

but we do appreciate their ability to assist !!

And remember .... DPW staff is out their in the middle of the night .... when we are all snug in our houses in our beds dreaming .... moving snow ... when there is no were else to put it ....

They are working all day to remove trash, fix water main breaks, dig cemetery plots .... the lists of regular work does not stop when the snow is falling .... and can they have time to rest / sleep so there are no injuries or accidents to themselves, property or the public .....

widening the street so the front-end loader can put the snow into truck beds to be hauled away

So remember -- the snow is expected to fall Saturday again ... even though they are saying it may not be a lot compared to what we have seen over the past couple of storms .... anymore is still enough .... enough that it part of what goes into making decisions ... for the best of the community ...

Stay tuned to the local channel on WCAT if you have it .... otherwise ... stay tune to the major channels of 4, 5, 7 and 25 .... and as always ... when the information is released by the Emergency Manager .. these forms of media information will be released on our town official website and its other media, i.e. facebook, twitter, blog ....

Be Safe,

Michele Karas, AFD/MIS

Town of Winthrop

Settings to this BLOG have changed .......Due to Issues of SPAMMERS/SPAM

2011-02-04T12:06:00.000-08:00

Effective Immediately, the settings of who can post to this BLOG has changed to Registered Users - includes OpenID ..... so register Today ..... Thank you!

Message from Public Saftey -- Feb. 3, 2011

2011-02-03T14:29:00.000-08:00

PRESS RELEASE Regarding Parking Ban -- Still In Effect -- Feb. 3, 2011

2011-02-03T13:57:00.000-08:00

All Winthrop Public Schools - CLOSED Tomorrow

2011-02-01T15:50:00.000-08:00

--- Public Library & Museum --- Info regarding Hours of Operation During this Storm

2011-02-01T15:41:00.001-08:00

Water Forum Meeting Cancelled for Tonight and Rescheduled for Next Week

2011-02-01T13:43:00.001-08:00

Reminder - Water Forum Public Meeting Tonight, Tues., Feb 1, 11 @ 7PM

2011-02-01T09:39:00.000-08:00

Town wide Parking Ban in Effect starting This Morning Tuesday February 1, 2011 at 9AM

2011-02-01T05:03:00.000-08:00

Town wide Parking Ban in Effect starting This Morning Tuesday February 1, 2011 at 9AM

For more information, click here.

Town-wide Parking Ban Declared Effective 8PM Tonight, Wednesday, 01/26/2011

2011-01-20T16:20:00.000-08:00

Town-wide Parking Ban Declared

Effective 8PM

Tonight, Wednesday, January 26, 2011

Based on National Weather Forecasts, the Town of Winthrop has declared a Town-wide Parking Ban effective 8PM tonight, Wednesday, January 26, 2011.

All residents must get their vehicles off the streets.

The parking ban will remain in effect until further notice.

In addition, the DPW requests that residents refrain from placing snow back into our streets, which makes their efforts to clean and make our streets safe difficult.

WINTER PARKING REGULATIONS

Winter Parking Regulations are in effect each year

from December 15 to April 1

Effective each year from December 15th to April 1st, winter parking regulations are in effect. These regulations state that upon announcement of the U.S. Weather Bureau or forecast in the newspaper, on radio or television of an EXPECTED OR IMPENDING snow storm, all motor vehicles must be removed from Town streets. Motor vehicles not removed will be subject to fines and/or towing. The vehicle owner is responsible for fines and tow charges including tickets lost or damaged by the weather condition.

For Town Ordinance regarding Chapter 282, WINTER PARKING, click here.

For our Resident's Guide to Winter Snow Operations in Winthrop, click here.

For a List of Municipal Lots around town, click here.

For information regarding the Town's Blue Lights which notify motorists when a parking ban is in effect, click here.

It is a town ordinance for all residents (homeowners/renters) and businesses to clean snow and ice from your sidewalks from in front of your property. Please read the following link regarding the ordinance and failure to comply. Failure to Remove Snow and Ice from sidewalks.

Posted on News & Announcements by Webmaster - mkaras (4pm 01/26/11)

Message from Conservation - Boston Region Metro Planning Org - Press Release

2011-01-19T14:56:00.000-08:00

PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE JANUARY 18, 2011

Contact: Maureen Kelly Telephone: 6179737097 mkelly@bostonmpo.org

Boston Region Metropolitan Planning Organization

Boston Region MPO Hosts Public Meetings on

Short-Range and Long-Range Transportation Planning

The Boston Region Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) is hosting a series of public meetings and workshops this winter to discuss a plan for implementing transportation projects over the next four years, a long-range transportation plan with a 25-year horizon, and transportation equity concerns. The MPO's plans affect a 101-municipality area of eastern Massachusetts that composes the MPO region.

TIP-Building Workshops (for the MPO's Transportation Improvement Program)

In February, the MPO will host several TIP-Building workshops. The workshops will focus on the development of the draft Federal Fiscal Years (FFYs) 2012-2015 Transportation Improvement Program and Air Quality Conformity Determination (TIP), the four-year plan for investing federal transportation dollars in the region. The TIP-Building Workshops are open to the public, but will be of particular interest to municipal staff and project proponents who are seeking federal funding to implement transportation projects. MPO staff will provide information about changes that are occurring to the TIP development process and the process the MPO uses to evaluate proposed projects.

Tuesday, February 8
9:00 AM
Peabody Library South Branch - 78 Lynn Street, Peabody
Accessible via MBTA bus Route 435

Tuesday, February 15
9:00 AM
Framingham Town Hall - Blumer Community Room - 150 Concord Street, Framingham
Accessible via the Framingham/Worcester commuter rail line (Framingham Station)

Wednesday, February 16
(at the MPO's winter open house)
1:00 PM (afternoon session) and 6:00 PM (evening session)
State Transportation Building - 10 Park Plaza, Boston, MA
Accessible by Silver and Orange lines (Tufts Medical Center Station), Green Line (Boylston or Arlington stations), and MBTA bus Routes 43 and 55

Tuesday, February 22
9:00 AM
Hingham Public Library - Whiton Room - 66 Leavitt Street, Hingham
Accessible via MBTA bus Route 220

Regional Transportation Needs Assessment Workshops

Another set of workshops will focus on the development of the MPO's long-range transportation plan, Paths to a Sustainable Region. In particular, there will be a discussion about the Needs Assessment that the MPO has conducted to identify problems within all modes of the region's transportation network, such as transit service needs, the locations of traffic bottlenecks and congestion, locations where there are numerous motor vehicle crashes, and transportation equity issues. The MPO is releasing this Needs Assessment, [available at: insert weblink], for public review and will welcome feedback at the meetings or by contacting the MPO:

By mail:

Boston Region Metropolitan Planning Organization
Attention: Michael Callahan
State Transportation Building
10 Park Plaza, Suite 2150
Boston, MA 02116

By email: mcallahan@bostonmpo.org

By fax: 617-9738855

By TTY: 617-9737089

Thursday, February 10
5:30 PM
Saugus Town Hall - Auditorium - 298 Central Street, Saugus
Accessible via MBTA bus Routes 429 and 430

Tuesday, February 15
5:30 PM
Needham Public Library - Community Room - 1139 Highland Avenue, Needham
Accessible by the Needham commuter rail line (Needham Heights Station) or MBTA bus Route 59

Wednesday, February 16
(at the MPO's winter open house)
Noon (afternoon session) and 5:00 PM (evening session)
State Transportation Building - 10 Park Plaza, Boston, MA
Accessible by Silver and Orange lines (Tufts Medical Center Station), Green Line (Boylston or Arlington stations), and MBTA bus Routes 43 and 55

Transportation Equity Forum

The MPO staff will also hold a Transportation Equity Forum on February 2 to provide another opportunity to discuss the Needs Assessment for the long-range plan with residents of neighborhoods that have high concentrations of low-income or minority residents, and to provide for consideration of transportation equity issues as the plan is being developed.

Wednesday, February 2
5:30 PM
Boston Public Library - Conference Room 6 - 700 Boylston Street, Boston
Accessible by the Green Line (Copley Station), Orange Line (Back Bay Station), and MBTA bus Routes 9, 10, 39, and 55

The Boston Region MPO is responsible for conducting regional transportation planning and for programming federal capital funding in its area. The MPO members include transportation and planning agencies and organizations, and municipalities.

posted by mkaras/MIS on behalf of Winthrop CONCOM - 01/19/11 at 17:56

Winthrop Public Library & Museum closed - Jan. 12, 2011

2011-01-11T19:54:00.000-08:00

The Winthrop Public Library & Museum will be closed on Wednesday due to the winter storm.

Alan Thibeault
Director

Winthrop Public Schools Cancelled for Wednesday, January 12, 2011

2011-01-11T17:45:00.000-08:00

To All Winthrop Residents/Parents/Teachers/Students:

Per the Winthrop Public School's Superintendent, Dr. J. Lisi, the Winthrop Public School sessions have been cancelled for Wednesday, January 12, 2011.

The local news stations, channel(s) 4, 5, 7, and 25 have been notified and calls on their notification system are being deployed.

Posted on behalf of Dr. Lisi by MIS Department - mkaras (8:30pm)

Delay in Trash Pickup for Wednesday, Thursday & Friday of this Week due to STORM

2011-01-11T15:20:00.001-08:00

Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Notice to all Residents:

This is to notify residents that have a Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday trash pick-up that your trash pick-up will be delay by a day.

Per DPW Director

Town-wide Parking Ban Declared Effective 10PM Tonight, Tuesday, 01/11/2011

2011-01-11T15:15:00.000-08:00

Town-wide Parking Ban Declared

Effective 10PM

Tonight, Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Based on National Weather Forecasts, the Town of Winthrop has declared a Town-wide Parking Ban effective 10PM tonight, Tuesday, January 11, 2011.

All residents must get their vehicles off the streets.

The parking ban will remain in effect until further notice.

In addition, the DPW requests that residents refrain from placing snow back into our streets, which makes their efforts to clean and make our streets safe difficult.

WINTER PARKING REGULATIONS

Winter Parking Regulations are in effect each year

from December 15 to April 1

Christmas Tree Pickup Dates - Jan 3rd & 10th on your Regular Trash Day

2011-01-03T12:41:00.000-08:00

2011

Christmas tree pick up dates are:

The week of January 3rd and January 10th on your regular trash day.

No plastic, lights, garland, and/or ornaments please.

Winthrop DPW
100 Kennedy Drive
Winthrop, MA 02152
Tel: 617-846-1341

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 7:00 AM TO 3:30 PM
Tuesdays 7:00 AM TO 6:00 pm
CLOSED FRIDAYS

Town-Wide Parking Ban Lifted Effective 12 midnight Monday, Dec. 27, 2010

2010-12-28T11:31:00.000-08:00

For More Information Visit the Town's Official Home Page - Click Here.

Town-wide Parking Ban Declared Effective 1PM Today, Sunday, Dec. 26, 2010

2010-12-26T06:37:00.000-08:00

WINTER PARKING REGULATIONS

Winter Parking Regulations are in effect each year

from December 15 to April 1

Effective each year from December 15th to April 1st, winter parking regulations are in effect. These regulations state that upon announcement of the U.S. Weather Bureau or forecast in the newspaper, on radio or television of an EXPECTED OR IMPENDING snow storm, all motor vehicles must be removed from Town streets. Motor vehicles not removed will be subject to fines and/or towing. The vehicle owner is responsible for fines and tow charges including tickets lost or damaged by the weather condition.

For Town Ordinance regarding Chapter 282, WINTER PARKING, click here.

For our Resident's Guide to Winter Snow Operations in Winthrop, click here.

For a List of Municipal Lots around town, click here.

For information regarding the Town's Blue Lights which notify motorists when a parking ban is in effect, click here.

It is a town ordinance for all residents (homeowners/renters) and businesses to clean snow and ice from your sidewalks from in front of your property. Please read the following link regarding the ordinance and failure to comply - Click Here to READ. Failure to Remove Snow and Ice from sidewalks.

Posted on News & Announcements by Webmaster - mkaras (9:30am; lites 11am)

Santa Claus is Coming to Town ...............

2010-12-15T16:46:00.000-08:00

SANTA MAKES HIS ANNUAL PLANS WITH WINTHROP FIREFIGHTERS.

SANTA CLAUS HAS ONCE AGAIN CONTACTED THE WINTHROP FIREFIGHTERS TO MAKE HIS PLANS FOR VISITING THE TOWN OF WINTHROP.

ON FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2010 (CHRISTMAS EVE) SANTA WILL BE ESCORTED THROUGH THE STREETS OF WINTHROP BY THE WINTHROP FIREFIGHTERS.

RAIN OR SNOW WILL NOT KEEP SANTA AND THE FIREFIGHTERS FROM COMPLETING THIS ANNUAL TRADITION, BUT CARS PARKED ILLEGALLY OR PARKED ON OR CLOSE TO CORNERS CAN KEEP SANTA FROM CERTAIN STREETS. SO PLEASE FOR SANTA AND HIS HELPERS, WORK WITH YOUR NEIGHBORS IN MAKING SURE THAT SANTA’S ROUTE REMAINS OPEN. IF YOU ARE NEW TO WINTHROP OR HAVE NEVER SEEN THIS SPECIAL PROCESSION, DO NOT MISS IT. IT IS A TRULY SPECTACULAR EVENT THAT RIVALS NONE.

Santa Claus is Coming to Town.....

WINTHROP FIREFIGHTERS LOCAL 1070

ALL TIMES ARE ESTIMATED!!

2010 SANTA’S ROUTE

4:30PM**Start at Deer Island to Tafts**Tafts to Elliot**left on Elliot to Church Square**left on Shirley to Triton**down Triton to Bayview**Bayview to Shirley**left on Shirley to Crystal Cove

4:50PM**Crystal Cove to Park**left on Park to Beacon**right on Beacon to Beacon Circle**down Shore Drive to Tewksbury**left on Tewksbury to Shirley**right on Shirley to Veterans Road**right on Veterans Road to Locust Street**left on Locust Street

5:20PM**Locust to Revere Street**right on Revere Street to Sagamore**Sagamore to Grovers**left on Grovers**Grovers to Cliff** right on Cliff to Seal Harbor**Seal Harbor to Pond Street**

5:45PM**right on Pond Street to Highland Ave**right on Highland to Nahant**left on Grovers** Grovers to Highland**right on Highland to Cliff**Cliff to Quincy Ave**left onto Quincy**Quincy to Upland Road**left on Upland to Revere Street**

6:00PM**left on Revere Street**Revere to Golden Drive**in and out of Golden Drive**right on Revere to Harvard**left on Harvard to Payson**right on Payson to Main**

6:15PM**right on Main to Bowdoin**left on Bowdoin to Centre**right on Centre to Hermon**left on Hermon to Belcher**Belcher to Winthrop**left on Winthrop to Atlantic**left on Atlantic to Hermon**

6:30PM**right on Hermon to Main**right on Main to Winthrop**left on Winthrop to Banks**Banks to Main**right on Main to Pleasant** left on Pleasant to Lincoln**left on Lincoln to Brookfield**right on Brookfield to Pleasant**left on Pleasant to Waldemar**left on Waldemar to Pauline**

7:10PM**right on Pauline to Lowell Road**Lowell to Maple**Maple to Loring**right on Loring to Court**left on Court to Johnson**Johnson to Somerset**left on Somerset

7:40PM**Somerset to Bartlett**Bartlett to Pleasant**right on Pleasant to Cottage Park**left on Cottage Park to Bartlett Parkway**left on Bartlett Parkway to Orlando**Orlando to Bartlett Road**Bartlett to Pleasant**right on Pleasant to Plummer**right on Plummer to Francis**left on Francis to Sunnyside**left on Sunnyside to Pleasant**across Pleasant to Buchanan**Buchanan to Putnam**Putnam to Viking Gardens**Viking Gardens to Putnam to Buchanan**left on Buchanan to Winthrop**

8:15PM**right on Winthrop to Washington**left on Washington to River Road**left on River Road to Chester**left on Chester to Bowdoin**right on Bowdoin to George**left on George to Winthrop**left on Winthrop to Jefferson**Jefferson to Freemont**right on Freemont to Pauline**right on Pauline to Fire Headquarters**

9:00PM**Santa heads back to North Pole to load up his sleigh

ALL TIMES ARE ESTIMATED!!

Message from the Winthrop Police Department - Halloween Safety Tips

2010-10-29T16:52:00.000-07:00

HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS

THE TRICK TO A HAPPY HALLOWEEN IS HAVING A SAFE HALLOWEEN!

The Winthrop Police Department wishes Winthrop residents a happy and safe Halloween! The department encourages safety and supervision during the annual Trick-or-Treat season. Halloween is fun for people of all ages, but it is most important for parents to closely adhere to a few guidelines to ensure your night runs smoothly!

IMPORTANT SAFETY TIPS

• Parents should establish a route for children, stay within familiar areas and surroundings
• Remind kids not to enter strangers' homes or cars

• Remind children to avoid home without an outside light on

• Attach your phone number and address to your children’s costume

• Take a flashlight

• Be sure clothing/costumes are bright, reflective and flame retardant
• Set rules about not eating treats until kids get home. Be sure to inspect all treats before allowing kids to eat them.

• When in doubt, throw it out! Candy that has been opened should be thrown away. Any homemade treats or fruit should be inspected closely.

• Never cross the street from between parked cars.

• Watch open flames from jack-o-lanterns as they can catch costumes and long wigs on fire.

• Make sure that fake knives, swords, and guns are made from cardboard or other flexible materials to avoid accidental injury or worse, have them mistaken for the real thing!

It is also important to ensure that your home is safe and accessible to trick-or-treaters. As adults there are some very simple things we can do to make the evening safe everyone.

• Turn on your porch light.

• Move lit jack-o-lanterns off the porch where kids get bunched up if they are trick-or-treating in groups.

• Remove objects from your yard that might present a hazard.

• Drive slowly all evening-you never know what creature may suddenly cross your path.

• Report any suspicious or criminal activity to the police

Traffic Safety Advisory Committee Joint Community Meeting 10/25/2010 - Bus Rt Chg

2010-10-20T10:24:00.001-07:00

MyRWA - SUPERFAN ??? Call for Volunteers .... for your community

2010-10-20T08:28:00.000-07:00

message sent on behalf of the Winthrop Conservation Commission

Click Here to download & print the above flyer.

MyRWA - Citizen Scientist Training Workshop - Nov. 6, 2010

2010-10-20T08:23:00.000-07:00

message sent on behalf of Winthrop Conservation Commission

Click Here to download & print the above flyer.

MyRWA Annual Meeting Thursday, Oct 28, 2010

2010-10-20T08:21:00.000-07:00

message forwarded on behalf of the Winthrop Conservation Commission

Click Here to download & print the above flyer.

Season Flu Clinic this Saturday, October 23 from 9am to 1pm

2010-10-20T07:27:00.000-07:00

Download your 2010 Parks & Recreation Fall Activities Program Guide -- Today !!

2010-09-28T06:57:00.000-07:00

Click here to download/print your program guide -- Today!!

Fall Fair & Craft Show - Saturday October 2, 2010 11am - 3pm

2010-09-28T06:32:00.000-07:00

Craft Table Spaces Available (tables not supplied)

For more details e-mail: parksandrecreation@town.winthrop.ma.us

Call: 617.846.8243 for more information.

http://www.thebostonchannel.com/video/25126639/detail.html

2010-09-24T12:55:00.000-07:00

http://www.thebostonchannel.com/video/25126639/detail.html

Winthrop in the News - Cape Ann walks away from Construction Project

2010-09-24T12:51:00.000-07:00

Winthrop In the News -- Cape Ann

Become a Friend of Fishermen's Bend

2010-09-24T12:13:00.000-07:00

The Town of Winthrop

Conservation Commission

________________

Invites You

Become a Friend

Fishermen's Bend

this

Sunday, September 26, 2010

12:00 Noon

________________

Location: The end of Winthrop Street (water side)

Get involved with exciting new opportunities to enhance Fishermen's Bend for residents and visitors to Winthrop.

Drug Take - Back Program -- Winthrop Police & CASA

2010-09-16T08:45:00.000-07:00

For more information or to download and/or print our flyer, CLICK HERE.

Message from Chamber of Commerce - Taste of Winthrop: Wednesday, September 15

2010-09-09T15:15:00.000-07:00

Taste of Winthrop: Wednesday, September 15

Over 30 of the area’s finest eating establishments will be participating in the 5th annual “Taste of Winthrop” on Wednesday, September 15 at the Winthrop Yacht Club, 649 Shirley Street.

This food extravaganza will run from 6:00 to 9:00 pm with samples of everything from appetizers and main courses to pastries and desserts.

Tickets are on sale now for $30 and may be purchased by calling 617-846-9898, in person at the Winthrop Chamber of Commerce office at 207 Hagman Road or Luna Boutique at 3 Bartlett Road.

Tickets will also be available at the door. Tables of ten may be reserved in advance for $300. This event is a fundraiser for the Winthrop Chamber of Commerce Beautification Program.

Enjoy tastes from: Alia Ristorante, Amanda Oakleaf Cakes, Antonia's, Billy Tse's, Blackstrap BBQ, Café Delite, Café Rossetti's, Center Café, Companions, Costco, El Paisa, Hong Kong Dragon, Hot Diggitty, Kasbah, Kayem Foods, Kelly's Roast Beef, La Siesta, Letterie's, Moonstruck Café, Mount Vernon at the Wharf, Nick's Place, Off the Boat, Paellas by Antonio, Paesan's, Papa's Deli, Paul W. Marks Co., Panini's, Renzo, Royal Roast Beef, Spina's, Spinelli's, Tasty Plates Catering, Twist & Shake, Winthrop MarketPlace, and Woodside Ace Hardware.

Message from WCAT - Fund Raising Event - Cookout - Sept. 11 at Winthrop Elks

2010-09-08T06:26:00.000-07:00

WCAT IS HAVING A COOKOUT TO RAISE FUNDS FOR MUCH NEEDED EQUIPMENT.

JOIN US ON SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 11TH AT 1 PM AT THE WINTHROP ELKS FOR A GREAT DAY OF FOOD, MUSIC AND FUN. THE GRILL WILL BE HOT ALL DAY AND OUR COOKS WILL BE SERVING THE BEST HOT DOGS, HAMBURGERS, CHICKEN AND MORE. THERE WILL BE LIVE MUSIC OUTSIDE BY THE HARBOR AND A FULL CASH BAR AVAILABLE INSIDE.

TICKETS FOR THIS ALL DAY EVENT ARE JUST $10 PER PERSON AND IT’S ALL FOR A GREAT CAUSE >>>>>>> YOUR PUBLIC ACCESS TV STATION . . . . WCAT.

THROUGHOUT THE DAY WE’LL ALSO BE SELLING $10 TICKETS FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A 40” HD TV. YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE PRESENT TO WIN SO IF YOU CAN’T MAKE THE COOKOUT YOU SHOULD STILL GET YOUR TICKETS FOR THE GRAND PRIZE TV.

TICKETS FOR THE COOKOUT AND THE TV RAFFLE CAN BE PURCHASED IN ADVANCE AT WCAT, 165 WINTHROP STREET OR AT THE ELKS ON THE 11TH. SO JOIN US FOR THIS END OF SUMMER BASH, HAVE SOME GREAT FOOD, MINGLE WITH SOME GOOD PEOPLE AND SUPPORT THIS IMPORTANT WINTHROP ORGANIZATION. SEE YOU THERE.

Mike
Mike Cabral
Executive Director
WCAT
165 Winthrop Street
Winthrop, MA 02152
617-846-3400
http://www.wcat-tv.org/

Swimmers and Boaters Urged to take Precautions During Hurricane EARL

2010-09-02T13:57:00.000-07:00

Swimmers and Boaters Urged to take Precautions due to Possible High Weekend Seas - Esp. Before/During & After Hurricane EARL

State officials cautioned boaters and swimmers to stay aware of surf conditions as the projected path of Hurricane EARL is predicted to pass several hundred miles east of Massachusetts. Even at that distance, Hurricane EARL is expected to have an impact on coastal regions. Swimmers and boaters must take precautions given the potential high seas and strong currents expected to be associated with this event over the remainder of the week.

The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) offers these tips for those around the water, particularly swimmers and boaters.

• Always check surf conditions. Over this weekend, swimmers are urged to stay out of the water on the Outer Cape and Islands, due to the rough surf and threat of life-threatening rip currents.

• Always be aware of the dangers of rip currents. Remember to never swim against the current, but parallel to the beach to an area where the current is weaker and you can safely return to shore.

• Once the storm passes and swimmers can safely return to the ocean, swimmers should remember to never swim alone, preferably on beaches with lifeguards. If you see someone in trouble, get help from a lifeguard. If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.

• During these stormy conditions, never turn your back to the ocean, as you may be swept off coastal bluffs or tide pool areas and into the water by waves that can come without warning.

• Be careful standing on seawalls while watching the surf.

• Boaters should continually obtain the latest available weather forecast for your boating area as well as U.S. Coast Guard and harbormaster warnings and directives.

• It is recommended that recreational boaters avoid the waters off of the outer Cape and Islands over the weekend.

• Those who venture out to sea should identify hurricane holes and safe harbors in the area in case you are caught at sea.

• Boat owners should assemble emergency equipment and supplies, as well as all of the necessary gear on board to properly tie down their vessel.

• Realize that you may not be able to pull your boat out of the water. Precious time is lost if you are searching for gear as a storm approaches.

• Have a plan worked out with your marina operator so there are no questions or confusion when the time comes to tie up or pull your boat from the water.

• Insure your vessel is as watertight as possible. Use duct tape and plugs to seal hatches, ports, windows, doors and vents.

• Remove all electronics, valuables and non-essential items.

• Have your insurance policies, boat registration, a recent photograph and description of the vessel, gear inventory, marina or storage lease agreement and important telephone numbers (local harbormaster, U.S. Coast Guard, National Weather Service, insurance agent) in a secure place off of the boat.

• When you are through, help your neighbor. It only takes one poorly tied boat in a marina to destroy an entire dock.

• Do not stay on the boat and attempt to ride out the storm.

With hurricane season underway, it is a good reminder to take the proper steps to ensure your family’s safety. Ensure that your Family Emergency Kit is stocked for a 3-5 day period, your Family’s Communication Plan is in place, and you have become informed of your community’s Emergency Plans regarding potential notification systems, emergency shelters and evacuation routes.

CLICK HERE for Coastal Tide Information for Boston Harbor/Deer Island.

MEMA Statement regarding "Pet Safety During a Hurricane"

2010-09-02T13:49:00.000-07:00

Pet Safety During a Hurricane

Taking your pets along is the most important thing individuals or families can do for their animals during a hurricane evacuation. Pets left behind can be injured, lost or killed during a storm, or in its aftermath. Pet owners should include their animals in their Family Hurricane Planning, before a storm threatens.

“Sometimes the family pet can be overlooked until the final moments before you and your family are about to evacuate,” states Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency Acting Director Kurt Schwartz. “Take the time now to develop a plan and assemble your pet’s Disaster Kit to ensure your animal’s safety and care if you are asked to evacuate.”

When you go, they go!

• Historically, only service animals are allowed inside public mass care shelters, although SMART (The State of Massachusetts Animal Response Team) now assists at many of these facilities with animal sheltering accommodations.

• Make plans ahead of time to take your pet to stay at relatives, friends or a kennel outside the affected area.

• Know the locations of pet-friendly hotels and motels.

• Prepare a list of boarding facilities and veterinarians who could shelter animals in an emergency; include 24-hour phone numbers.

• Consult with your local animal control officer and Emergency Management office about possible temporary shelter facilities in your community.

• Ask local animal shelters if they provide emergency shelter or foster care for pets in a disaster. Animal shelters may be overburdened caring for the animals they already have, as well as those displaced by a disaster, so this should be your last resort.

• Prepare an emergency kit for your pets; include collars & leashes, a 3-5 day supply of food and water, a manual can opener, bowls, litter boxes, photographs of you with your pet, and a week’s supply of medications that your pet may be taking, including instructions (in case you and your pet are separated).

• Have copies of your pets’ vaccinations, medical records and prescriptions in a clean plastic bag or waterproof container.

• Make sure your pets wear collars with current license and rabies tags, and identification tags that include information on where you will be staying during the emergency.

• Use a pet carrier for each of your pets to make transportation easier.

• Birds should be transported in a secure travel cage or carrier. During warm weather, carry a plant mister to spray the birds' feathers periodically. Do not put water inside the carrier during transport.

• Provide a few slices of fresh fruits and vegetables with high water content.

• Have a photograph for identification and leg bands.

• If the carrier does not have a perch, line it with paper towels and change them frequently. Try to keep the carrier in a quiet area. Do not let the birds out of the cage or carrier.

• Exotic or dangerous pets are generally dealt with on a case-by-case basis, to ensure that they are handled, transported and cared for by trained personnel at appropriate facilities. To insure the safety of their animals, owners of this type of pet should have advanced planning preparations ready for their pet’s special needs.

MEMA OFFERS TIPS AS HURRICANE EARL APPROACHES

2010-09-02T13:39:00.000-07:00

Hurricane Earl Tips

-----------------

MEMA OFFERS TIPS AS HURRICANE EARL APPROACHES

As Hurricane Earl approaches, The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) recommends a number of steps people can take to help minimize potential damage during hurricane or tropical storm conditions.

“Early planning and preparation can be the key to your safety,” states MEMA Acting Director Kurt Schwartz. “It is important to use your time wisely and not wait until the last minute.”

Here are some examples of steps you should be taking:

• Trim back trees and shrubbery around your home. Remove diseased or damaged tree limbs that could be blown down, causing damage, during a storm.

• Clear clogged rain gutters. Hurricanes/tropical storms often bring torrential rain. Providing clear drainage will help prevent misdirected flooding.

• Bring in outdoor items to bring inside such as lawn furniture, trash barrels, hanging plants, toys and awnings that can be broken or picked up by strong winds and used as a missile.

• Make sure storage sheds, children’s playhouses or other outbuildings are securely anchored, either to a permanent foundation or with straps and ground anchors.

• Elevate articles in your basement that could be damaged from even minor flooding.

• Make temporary plywood covers to protect windows and sliding doors. Drill holes for screws or lag bolts in each cover and around each window. Note: Taping of windows does not prevent them from breaking.

• Keep you vehicles fully fuelled.

• Have a certain amount of cash available. If power is lost, ATMs may not be working.

• Make a record of your personal property. Keep an itemized list of your furniture, clothing and valuables to assist adjusters in case of a claim. Back it up with photographs or video.

• Protect your insurance policies and other important documents in a secure place like a safe deposit box or a watertight box. Many people back up important documents online.

• Learn where gas pilots and water mains are located and how to safely shut off all utilities.

• Lock doors and windows to ensure that they are closed tight to help protect against strong winds and rain.

Town Wide Mosquito Control Spraying RESCHEDULED due to weather conditions

2010-08-25T15:50:00.000-07:00

Town Wide Mosquito Control Spraying

Due to the Rain and Weather Conditions has been

RESCHEDULED

for

Monday, August 30, 2010

10:00PM to 2:00AM

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health reported West Nile Virus has been detected in mosquitoes in Winthrop. The Winthrop Health Department has made arrangements with the Northeast Massachusetts Mosquito Control District for a town wide truck spraying which was to be done tonight, Wednesday, August 25, 2010 between 10:00PM to 2:00AM but has been RESCHEDULED due to the rain and weather conditions -- New date for town wide truck spraying is Monday, August 30, 2010 between 10:00PM to 2:00AM.

There are no significant risks to truck spraying. Safety precautions include:

- Shut all open windows facing the street during the hours of truck spraying
- Avoid walking pets during truck spraying
- Avoid mosquito bites
- Apply insect repellent when outdoors
- Remove areas of standing water around your home which can serve as breeding sites for mosquitoes
- Empty containers around your home that might collect water
- Swimming pools should be kept clean and properly chlorinated

Please call the Northeast Massachusetts Mosquito Control District at 978-463-6630 if you do not want your house sprayed, leave your name and address.

For more information on West Nile Virus, please check the Mass DPH website at http://www.mass.gov/dph

For more information on truck spraying, please contact the Northeast Massachusetts Mosquito Control & Wetlands Management District at 978-463-6630 and the Winthrop Board of Health at 617-846-1740.

Winthrop Board of Health

Wildlife Advisory for Winthrop, MA from BOH

2010-08-23T16:36:00.000-07:00

Wildlife Advisory

2010 Wildlife Brochure from the Board of Health

Click here to download brochure.

from Winthrop Board of Health

Health Officials see increased risk of Mosquito-Borne Illnesses - Residents urged to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites

2010-08-23T15:40:00.000-07:00

HEALTH OFFICIALS SEE INCREASED RISK OF MOSQUITO-BORNE ILLNESSES

Residents urged to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites

Area health officials are warning residents to take simple, common-sense precautions to avoid getting bit by mosquitoes this summer and fall. That’s because of an increased risk of two different viruses that are spread through bites by infected mosquitoes – West Nile virus (WNV) and eastern equine encephalitis (EEE). These mosquito-borne illnesses can cause serious health problems. The good news is that there are a few easy steps that residents can take to avoid mosquito bites and “mosquito-proof” their homes throughout the rest of mosquito season.

Be aware of peak mosquito hours. The hours from dusk to dawn are peak biting times for many mosquitoes. Consider rescheduling outdoor activities that take place during evening or early morning hours. Otherwise, take extra care to use bug spray and protective clothing.

Clothing can help reduce mosquito bites. Although it may be difficult to do when it’s hot, wearing long-sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.

Apply bug spray when you go outdoors. Use a bug spray with DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide), permethrin, picaridin (KBR 3023), IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus [p-methane 3, 8-diol (PMD)] according to the instructions on the product label. DEET products should not be used on infants under two months of age and should be used in concentrations of 30% or less on older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under three years of age. Permethrin products are intended for use on items such as clothing, shoes, bed nets and camping gear and should not be applied to skin.

Drain standing water. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Limit the number of places around your home for mosquitoes to breed by either draining or getting rid of items that hold water. Check rain gutters and drains. Empty any unused flowerpots and wading pools, and change water in birdbaths frequently.

Install or repair screens. Keep mosquitoes outside by having tightly-fitting screens on all of your windows and doors. Fix any holes or tears in screens, so mosquitoes can’t get in.

More information is available on the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) website at http://www.mass.gov/dph/wnv, or by calling the DPH Public Health Information Line at 1-866-MASS-WNV (1-866-627-7968).

Winthrop Board of Health

Town Wide Mosquito Control Spraying -- Wed., Aug. 25, 10 between 10pm & 2am

2010-08-23T15:35:00.000-07:00

Town Wide Mosquito Control Spraying

Wednesday August 25, 2010

10:00PM to 2:00AM

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health reported West Nile Virus has been detected in mosquitoes in Winthrop. The Winthrop Health Department has made arrangements with the Northeast Massachusetts Mosquito Control District for a town wide truck spraying to be done on Wednesday, August 25, 2010 between 10:00PM to 2:00AM.

There are no significant risks to truck spraying. Safety precautions include:

- Shut all open windows facing the street during the hours of truck spraying
- Avoid walking pets during truck spraying
- Avoid mosquito bites
- Apply insect repellent when outdoors
- Remove areas of standing water around your home which can serve as breeding sites for mosquitoes
- Empty containers around your home that might collect water
- Swimming pools should be kept clean and properly chlorinated

Please call the Northeast Massachusetts Mosquito Control District at 978-463-6630 if you do not want your house sprayed, leave your name and address.

For more information on West Nile Virus, please check the Mass DPH website at www.mass.gov/dph

For more information on truck spraying, please contact the Northeast Massachusetts Mosquito Control & Wetlands Management District at 978-463-6630 and the Winthrop Board of Health at 617-846-1740.

Winthrop Board of Health

click here to download this notice on board of health official letterhead - 1 page document in pdf format.

Safety Precautions for West Nile Virus

2010-08-23T07:03:00.000-07:00

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health reported West Nile Virus is still being detected in mosquitoes in Winthrop. The Winthrop Health Department is making arrangements with the Northeast Massachusetts Mosquito Control District for a town wide truck spraying to be done this week; a release of the definate date and time(s) will be posted to our official website's News & Announcements, Winthrop Facebook Pages, Winthrop Twitter, and the local cable scroll on WCAT.

Safety precautions:

• Avoid mosquito bites

• Apply insect repellent when outdoors

• Wear protective clothing while outdoors between dusk and dawn

• Remove areas of standing water around your home which can serve as breeding sites for mosquitoes

• Empty containers around your home that might collect water

• ·wimming pools should be kept clean and properly chlorinated

For more information on West Nile Virus, please check the Mass DPH website at www.mass.gov/dph

For more information on truck spraying, please contact the Northeast Massachusetts Mosquito Control & Wetlands Management District at 978-463-6630 and the Winthrop Board of Health at 617-846-1740.

To download and print our Public Health Fact Sheet regarding West Nile Virus, click here.

Thank you,
Winthrop Board of Health

It is time to renew your Dog License for the 2011 season.

2010-08-19T12:34:00.000-07:00

PRESS RELEASE

It is time to renew your Dog License for the 2011 season.

If you would like to register by mail, please see download a Dog License application
from our website at the following link: http://www.town.winthrop.ma.us/Pages/WinthropMA_Clerk/DogLicenseApp.pdf

Remember to fill it out with your check, as well as a self-addressed stamped envelope, and copy of a current rabies certificate. The licensing period is between July 1st and August 15th – after September 1st the Dog Officer will follow up and will be issuing tickets for non-compliance.

Applications can also be picked up at local groomers or in the Town Clerk’s Office.

As a reminder dogs are not allowed in any “tot lots” (where children play) on or off leash. Nor are they allowed to relieve themselves on School or Town Hall property. Please be respectful of our beautiful town and its citizens.

Happy Summer!

Customer Appreciation - the Meat Market -- 25 Years in Business!!!

2010-08-19T11:53:00.000-07:00

The Meat Market is having a customer appreciation BBQ tonight - August 19, 2010 (Thursday) from 5:00 - 8:00 pm. Congratulations on 25 years in business!

Congratulations on 25 Years in Business

from Town of Winthrop

Great Job!! Harbormaster Department -- A Job Well Done !!!

2010-08-11T14:49:00.001-07:00

From: Karen Chapman [mailto:yiacookie@comcast.net]
Sent: Sunday, August 08, 2010 9:20 AM
To: mkaras@town.winthrop.ma.us
Subject: Winthrop Harbormasters are the best

Dear Harbormasters;

This is to thank you for assisting us when we accidentally came aground at the gas dock in Crystal Cove on Saturday, August 7th.

You all really went over and above the call of duty. You succeeded in a safe and professional manner when others would have given up, and you continued until the job was completed.

I wish I had all your names to Thank You individually. Also, can you please thank the boater in the Dixie for all of his assistance.

Thank you again,
John and Karen Chapman
The Eclipse
Docked at Atlantis Marina
Members of Orient Heights Yacht Club

New Town Hall Hours Effective Monday, August 30, 2010

2010-08-10T14:40:00.000-07:00

New TOWN HALL Office HOURS

To better serve the public the town hall hours have been
extended for two new late nights;

our original Monday night has been changed to Tuesday night

and Thursday night has been added to allow residents

and patrons that are out doing errands, banking, etc.

to have more access to town hall to conduct town hall business.

Effective Monday, August 30, 2010

Public Offices: Town Manager’s Office, Revenue Collections, Assessing Dept., Town Clerk, Board of Health

MONDAY 8AM TO 4:30PM

TUESDAY 8AM TO 7:00PM

WEDNESDAY 8AM TO 4:30PM

THURSDAY 8AM TO 7:00PM

FRIDAY CLOSED

These times are for town hall business offices only;

school department administrative offices have different

hours of operation which will be in effect

when the school department has moved into town hall

September 2010.

New Winthrop Ferry Schedule in Effect Monday, August 16, 2010

2010-08-10T12:53:00.000-07:00

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

winthrop ferry

passenger notification

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

In an effort to respond to the needs of our ridership, we are pleased to announce an updated Winthrop Ferry Schedule* which will go into effect on Monday, August 16, 2010.

                                        Depart Winthrop                 Depart Rowes Wharf
                                               7:00 AM                                7:30 AM
                                               8:00 AM                                8:30 AM
                                           11:30 AM                              11:00 AM

                                        Depart Rowes Wharf               Depart Winthrop
                                                4:45 PM                                5:15 PM
                                                5:45 PM                                6:15 PM
                                                6:45 PM

* No service on weekends

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

One Long Wharf, Boston, Massachusetts 02110

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

tel: (617) 227-4321 fax: (617) 723-2011 web: http://www.bostonharborcruises.com/

Owned and operated by Nolan Associates, LLC

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

At the Playmakers -- "Broadway A to Z"

2010-08-07T09:31:00.000-07:00

Broadway A-Z - Annual Summer Revue

Nancy R Harrison invited you · Share · Public Event

Time	August 13 at 8:00pm - August 22 at 3:00pm

Location	The Winthrop Playmakers 60 Hermon Street Winthrop, MA

Created By	Nancy R Harrison, Janine Santilli, Kerry Murphy HarveyShow all (5)

More Info	The Playmakers are proud to present their annual summer revue - Broadway A-Z. Featuring a song from a Broadway musical for every letter of the alphabet! Can you name them? Featuring a cast of over 50 Adults, Teens, and Kids! Pre-Sale Tickets - $18 Adults, $15 Seniors/Students Tickets at Door - $20 Adults, $17 Seniors/Students Visit www.winthropplaymakers.com for tickets and info Show dates and times: Friday, August 13th - 8 pm <- Opening Night Gala to Follow Saturday, August 14th - 3pm Saturday, August 14th - 8pm Sunday, August 15th - 3pm Thursday, August 19th - 7:30 pm Friday, August 20th - 8 pm Saturday, August 21st - 3pm Saturday, August 21st - 8pm Sunday, August 22nd - 3pm Runtime: 1 Hour 45 Minutes, plus one 15 minute intermission.

Health & Wellness Network Meeting - August 12

2010-08-07T09:29:00.000-07:00

Health & Wellness Network Meeting - BNI Atlantic Referral Exchange

Anne Kelty invited you · Share · Public Event

Time	August 12 · 7:00am - 8:30am

Location	Eastern Bank HQ 195 Market St. 5th FL Lynn, MA

Created By	Anne Kelty, Diana Aliberti

More Info	Do you want to write more business? Then this is a great opportunity to meet professionals and to market your business and profession.

Hairspray August 12-22

2010-08-07T09:26:00.000-07:00

Hairspray August 12-22

Trudy Macero invited you · Share · Public Event

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Time	August 12 at 2:00pm - August 22 at 5:00pm

Location	Reagle Music Theatre - Robinson Theater 617 Lexington Street Waltham, MA

Created By	Reagle Music Theatre of Greater Boston

More Info	THU 12 @ 2pm FRI 13 @ 7:30pm SAT 14 @ 7:30pm SUN 15 @ 2pm THU 19 @ 7:30pm FRI 20 @ 7:30pm SAT 21 @ 7:30pm SUN 22 @ 2pm www.reaglemusictheatre.com/tickets.html#Hairspray 781-891-5600 STARRING Marissa Perry Featuring: Dan Dowling, John Macero, Nick Peciaro, Merissa Czyz, Davron Monroe, Stephanie Moskal, Susan Scannell, Mark Linehan, Angela Birchett, Rebecca Policape, Kami Smith, Samantha Johnson, Lovely Hoffman, R. Glen Michell, Katie Clarke, Angela Richardson, Yvens Alexis, Ashley Berger, Kevin Bradley, Jr., Stephanie Caballero, Michael Graceffa, Lenni Kmiec, Jimmy Larkin, Justine Long, Justin Robinson, Stefanie Ruffin, Stephen Wovna, and Sean London Young

Wave n' Pave's End of Summer Skate Jam & Afterparty

2010-08-07T09:17:00.000-07:00

Wave N' Pave's End of Summer Skate Jam & Afterparty

wave n pave invited you · Share · Public Event

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Time	August 21 · 1:00pm - 6:00pm

Location	Winthrop Skate Park & The Kasbah ingelside park, walden street Winthrop, MA

Created By	wave n pave

More Info	Registration is @ 1 - competitions start @ 2. All ages & skill levels welcome (you will be paired against someone the same age and skill level). Girl= best trick contest, Royal= rail jam, many more details to follow TONS of FREE give-aways, awesome prizes. After Party Starts @ 7pm @ The Kasbah 59 Putnam St., Winthrop, MA Liquor sponsors will be added onto the event. TONS of free giveaways, come watch REEF's cancer to capricorn on the big screen. Belly Dancers, Hookahs.

Invasion Alert !!! August 14 Town River Yacht Club will be invading the WYC

2010-08-07T09:09:00.000-07:00

To all WYC Members and their Guests- INVASION ALERT !!
Time August 14 · 7:00pm - 11:00pm
Location Winthrop Yacht Club - 649 Shirley Street, Winthrop, MA
Town River Yacht Club will be invading the WYC on Aug 14!!
This shapes up to be one of the bigger events of the Summer. T.R.Y.C. always brings a large fleet to the W.Y.C. and this year should be no exception.
We have a great weekend planned- All WYC members join in this great event.
Please bring welcomed guests to enjoy dinner and dancing under the beautiful Boston-Skyline!
Tickets are $30 and include: the dock cookout, late day reception, full dinner buffet with dancing and The Sunday breakfast buffet.
If you can come for the dinner and dancing portion of the evening tickets are $20- please email Chuck Flanagan at Flanres@aol.com for more details.
AGENDA AS FOLLOWS:
The invasion will include the Dock Pavilion cookout around 1pm.
The afternoon reception hosted by T.R.Y.C will begin around 2:30pm with appetizers and frozen drinks- provided by your guests.
The evening event should start around 7-7:30pm with a great meal catered by "Tennessee's Real Barbeque"
The Buffet meal will include Ribs, chicken, salad, BBQ-beans, dirty rice wings and cornbread etc.
The entertainment for the night will be the timeless Boston Based Band "J.D. Kenney and Bill" they have been playing New England venues from for over thirty years.
For some of the old timers who remember the "Scotch & Sirloin" in Boston they were the featured band for years. They play everything from classic oldies to current pop .
We as usual will be offering a buffet breakfast from 8:30am- till 10:30am on Sunday!

Today ~ Tavares at Miller Field ~ Tickets through Viking Pride Org.

2010-08-07T08:56:00.000-07:00

Reminder ~~~~ Winthrop is hosting a great summer concert today that will benefit the Viking Pride Foundation.

Saturday Night Fever hits Winthrop when the band "Tavares" plays at Miller Field today, August 7th.

This is going to be a fun night of dance music from the 70s including hits " It only takes a Minute" and Heaven Must be Missing and Angel" and "More than a Woman."

Tickets are $30 and $50 - order at www.vikingpride.org.

The night will feature great music, food, prizes, adult beverages, must be over 21. Thank you!

New ferry option for Boston-bound commuters

2010-08-04T13:07:00.000-07:00

New ferry option for Boston-bound commuters

By Associated Press
Tuesday, August 3, 2010

WINTHROP — There’s a new way to commute to Boston by sea.

Ferry service from Winthrop to Rowe’s Wharf is set to debut on Tuesday. The 149-passenger ferry operated by Boston Harbor Cruises will make the 25-minute trip three times each weekday morning with three return trips in the afternoon.

Massachusetts House Speaker Robert DeLeo, who is from Winthrop, and U.S. Rep. Edward Markey, will be among those boarding the ferry for its inaugural run. Markey helped secure $2.35 million in federal funding for the service.

A one-way ticket is $6 for adults and $3 for seniors and children under 12.

Boston Harbor Cruises already operates commuter boats for the MBTA from Hingham and the Charlestown Navy Yard.

Story from following web link: New Ferry

Welcome Aboard !!!! Winthrop's Ferry ..........

2010-07-27T16:52:00.000-07:00

Thursday July 29th 2010 - Friday July 30th 2010

Click Here for more information.

Town Wide Mosquito Control Spraying - Monday July 26 2010 between 10PM & 12 Midnight

2010-07-24T11:22:00.000-07:00

Town Wide Mosquito Control Spraying

Monday July 26, 2010

10:00pm to 12 Midnight

There are no significant risks to truck spraying. Safety precautions include:

Avoid mosquito bites
Apply insect repellent when outdoors
Shut all open windows facing the street during the hours of truck spraying
Avoid walking pets during truck spraying
Remove areas of standing water around your home which can serve as breeding sites for mosquitoes
Empty containers around your home that might collect water
Swimming pools should be kept clean and properly chlorinated

Please call the Northeast Massachusetts Mosquito Control District at 978-463-6630 if you do not want your house sprayed, leave your name and address.

For more information on West Nile Virus, please check the Mass DPH website at www.mass.gov/dph

For more information on truck spraying, please contact the Northeast Massachusetts Mosquito Control & Wetlands Management District at 978-463-6630 and the Winthrop Board of Health at 617-846-1740.

To download and print our Public Health Fact Sheet regarding West Nile Virus, click here.

Thank you,
Winthrop Board of Health

Town Wide Street Sweeping -- July 26 thru July 30, 2010

2010-07-21T07:48:00.000-07:00

TOWN WIDE STREET SWEEPING

WILL BE THE WEEK OF

JULY 26TH THROUGH JULY 30TH, 2010

ON YOUR TRASH DAY.

PLEASE REMOVE ALL VEHICLES FROM YOUR STREET,

TICKETING AND TOWING STRICTLY ENFORCED.

Thank you, Department of Public Works

Family Day at the Beach July 24, 2010

2010-07-07T09:06:00.000-07:00

Family Day at the Beach July 24

The Chamber of Commerce 13th annual "Old Fashioned Family Day at the Beach" takes place Saturday, July 24 from 11 am to 4 pm. Yirrell Beach on Point Shirley will be the place for fun in the sun: see flier. In the event of rain, the event will be held on Sunday, July 25.

No need to pack a lunch as there will be hot dogs, sausages, and hamburgers on the grill, along with pizza and cold drinks.

Schedule for the day is as follows: 11:00 – Scavenger Hunt, 11:30 – Simon Says, 12:00 – Water Balloon Toss, 12:30 – Look Alike Contest, 1:00 – Adult Spelling Bee, 1:30 – Winthrop’s Got Talent, 2:00 – Hat Contest, 2:30 – Dance Contest, 3:00 – Hula Hoop Contest. There is free parking at the Town Landing, 651 Shirley Street; however public transportation & carpooling is strongly encouraged.

The "Revolution" will be doing boat tours of Boston Harbor at 10 am, 12 pm, and 2 pm for just $10 (first 100 people). Meet at the Town Pier at the Public Landing.

DJ Jeff Lyons will be playing music, kids can jump on the moonbounce or go down the water slide, along with raffles, games, and other activities. Special thanks to the Winthrop MarketPlace for their support.

Sand Castle Day at the Beach

2010-07-07T08:57:00.000-07:00

7/10/2010 -- Parks and Rec - Sand Castle Day at the Beach

Event will be from 10a-3p

Contests, prizes, games, music, food

Click Here to Register for the annual Sand Castle Swim (Adult 16 & up, $20, Kids Swim, free) at PointShirleyAthleticClub.com

Rain date is Sunday, July 11th.

2nd Annual Battle at the Beach , Beach Wrestling with Sumo Syle Rules - Rudy Howard Coordinator

FY2011 Resident Parking Permit Program effective July 1, 2010

2010-07-07T08:29:00.000-07:00

If you have applied for but have not received your

FY2011 Resident Parking Permit in the mail as of June 30, 2010

PLEASE CALL REVENUE COLLECTIONS @ 617-846-1750

They will look up your registration number(s) and confirm the mailing date or the status of your application.

Click Here for POSSIBLE REASONS THAT COULD DELAY MY

APPLICATION FROM BEING PROCESSED

Click Here to APPLY FOR YOUR FY2011 RESIDENT PERMIT

Click Here for HELPFUL HINTS regarding the Resident Parking Permit Program

Created & posted by MIS Department - July 7, 2010 at 11:25pm - mkaras

Cooling Centers OPEN Today, Wednesday, July 7, 2010

2010-07-07T08:11:00.001-07:00

Today, July 7, 2010 -- Cooling Centers located at Rec Center on Golden Drive and 117 Putnam Street -- All centers will be open up until 8 pm.

Thank you - Publix Shoe & the Rosetti Family

2010-07-07T07:33:00.000-07:00

Join Cops Against Cancer & Team Turtle -- Relay for Life

2010-06-16T09:05:00.000-07:00

From: Michael Delehanty [mailto:mdelehanty@town.winthrop.ma.us]
Sent: Wednesday, June 16, 2010 1:23 AM
To: all all
Subject: Reminder

REMINDER

The 2010 Relay for Life is THIS FRIDAY EVENING! East Boston Stadium 6 P.M., come over and enjoy the festivities or google Relay for Life East Boston, to donate or join a team. The homepage will give you selections to Join a Team or Donate online. To donate offline see Carla Vitale (Team Turtle) or Mike Delehanty, Arthur Hickey, Tony Meola (Cops Against Cancer). They can give you a donation sheet where you can make a cash or check donation. So join in it's all for a great cause.

THANK YOU!

posted by michele karas, afd/mis

American Cancer Relay For Life

2010-06-16T09:01:00.000-07:00

From: Arthur G Hickey Jr [mailto:ahickey@town.winthrop.ma.us]

Sent: Wednesday, June 16, 2010 9:31 AM

To: Kevin Meagher; Michele N Karas; Mike Bertino; Monica Ford; Susan Eccles

Subject: American Cancer Relay For Life

Hello Friend

I am taking part in an American Cancer Society Relay For Life this year. There's a good chance you've heard of it - it's the largest cancer-fighting movement in the world. There will be more than 230 Relays happening throughout New England this year, and more than 5,000 across the U.S., each uniting communities against a common enemy: cancer.

My team and I will be cheering the cancer survivors who kick off the event by taking the first lap around the track. Then, everyone else will join in and the goal is to keep at least one member of our team on the track all night. Lighting the way will be hundreds of luminarias - lighted bags bearing the names of loved ones who have faced a cancer diagnosis.

Relay is a time of reflection, a time to celebrate survivorship, and a time to pledge to take some kind of action to fight a disease that roughly 1 in 2 men and 1 in 3 women will be diagnosed with in their lifetimes. It might be a pledge to wear sunscreen, quit smoking, volunteer with the American Cancer Society to drive patients to and from treatment, or remind a loved one to get their annual mammogram.

As a Relay participant, I am committed to raising as much money as I can to help ensure that the American Cancer Society continues to meet the demand for its programs and services for cancer patients and their caregivers - help finding clinical trials and affordable health insurance, temporary lodging during treatment far from home, summer camps for children and teens with cancer, and much more.

I am proud to be part of Relay, can you tell? And I'm hoping you find the cause as worthy as I do. If so, please take just a few minutes to make a donation on my personal Web page. I would be so appreciative.

If you are interested in learning more about Relay, visit www.cancer.org/relay. And, if you ever have questions about cancer, I urge you to call an American Cancer Society cancer information specialist at 1.800.227.2345 - any time, day or night, every single day of the year.

Thank you!
Sgt. Arthur Hickey Jr

posted by mkaras on behalf of Relay for Life advocate Sgt. Hickey

Process to Fill School Committee Vacancy

2010-06-16T07:32:00.000-07:00

This was an email sent by President Turco to School Committee and Town Council on June 10, 2010. It was read into the official record at Council Meeting of June 15, 2010 and outlines process to fill School Committee vacancy.

Dear Colleagues:

This evening the School Committee discussed the process to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Mr. Martucci. As this is an undefined process in the charter, there were many questions. I agreed to send an email with this suggested process.

The normal town committee application would be used by applicants (Click Here to download committee application - pdf). Applicants would be encouraged to submit a resume and any other supporting materials with their completed application. All applications must be submitted to the Town Clerk before her office closes on Thursday, July 1, 2010.

As applications are submitted, consistent with other committee applications, the Town Clerk will pdf copies to all school committee and town council members.

Completed applications would be on file for the public to review and posted on our website in addition a list of those applying would be on file (similar to who took out nomination papers) at the Clerk's office. The joint committee would meet on July 6, 2010 (the date of the regularly scheduled Town Council meeting) at the Cummings School all purpose room to elect Mr. Martucci's replacement.

Assuming the process would not take more than an hour, the regularly scheduled council meeting would take place after the joint committee concludes its work. If no member of the Town Council objects to this process and time line, the process would be posted on our webpage, announced at our meeting, and Michele K. would send out an email blast.

Members of the School Committee, if I left anything out please let me (us) know asap.

Members of the Town Council, if you have any objection, please let me know before mid-day Monday.

In either case, I will read this email into the record on Tuesday (for open meeting purposes).

Thanks.

Be well,
Jeff Turco
Council President

Sent on behalf of Council President/Town Council by Michele Karas, AFD/MIS

Winthrop Community Blood Drive hosted by the Winthrop Elks - Wed. June 23 (2-7pm)

2010-06-10T11:14:00.000-07:00

Winthrop Community Blood Drive

Hosted by the Winthrop Elks

Wednesday, June 23

2:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

191 Washington Street

Please call to make an appointment

click here to download flyer for more info....

Last Chance - Only 50 Left - DPW Rain Harvesting Project-Rain Barrels for $20

2010-06-10T10:33:00.000-07:00

LAST CHANCE

LAST CHANCE TO PURCHASE RAIN BARRELS IS THURSDAY, JUNE 10TH, FROM 6:30 TO 2:30 -- THEY ARE SELLING QUICKLY SO HURRY, THERE ARE ONLY 50 LEFT.

Winthrop DPW
100 Kennedy Drive
Winthrop, MA 02152
Tel: 617-846-1341

Summer Business Hours: Monday-Thursday, 6:30 to 2:30. CLOSED FRIDAYS

Click Here to learn more about the Rain Havesting Project.

Compost OPEN Today, Monday, Jun 7 & Tuesday, Jun 8 -- Fees Waived

2010-06-07T07:21:00.001-07:00

Due to the extreme high winds during the rainstorms this weekend, many tree limbs and branches have fallen.

The Director of DPW, David Hickey, has opened the compost to help residents drop-off branches, limbs, and leaves.

The Compost is OPEN, TODAY, Monday, June 7 now until 2:30PM and TOMORROW, Tuesday, June 8 from 8AM to 2:30PM

Fees have been waived for these two days.

Walk Winthrop - A Plan for a More Walkable Community

2010-06-01T10:17:00.000-07:00

Walk Winthrop is a proposal to develop a linked pedestrian and/or bicycle trail system within town for citizens to easily and safety access our town businesses, schools, parks, beaches, and public transportation.

Click Here to open, download, or print the Walk Winthrop Report - there are three (3) parts to the document (cover page, body, back page).

A HUGE Thank You !!!

2010-06-01T08:58:00.000-07:00

Preparing for Memorial Day with the cleaning of the bronze Veterans markers in both Winthrop Cemeteries.

Saturday, May 22 at 8:00am

To help as we honor those who have served in the United States military.

They cut away and cleaned the over grown grass on each of the bronze Veterans markers.

Helpers brought their children and grand children and explain the importance of maintaining and respecting the graves of our men and women who have served in the Armed Forces of the United States of America.

"We have been doing this for the past 6 or 7 years and this year was THE BEST turnout says Richard Honan -- Thank you all!!!"

Location: Winthrop Cemeteries

FY11 Budget Public Hearing Power Point Presentation - May 25, 2010

2010-06-01T08:45:00.000-07:00

Click Here to open, download, or print -- posted to website -- Town Manager & Finance Director's presentation at Town Council Meeting, May 25, 2010 -- FY11 Budget Public Hearing

Winthrop DPW - Rain Harvesting Project

2010-06-01T07:51:00.000-07:00

TOWN OF WINTHROP

Department of Public Works

100 Kennedy Drive, Winthrop MA 02152

David J. Hickey. Jr., Director
Phone: 617-846-1341
Fax: 617-539-1545
dhickey@town.winthrop.ma.us

Press Release – For Immediate Circulation

Rain Barrels are Coming, Make your Deposit Soon!

The Department of Public Works (DPW) is very pleased to announce a rain harvesting project that proposes to provide our residents with rain barrels for $20. As our residents are aware the cost of our water is amongst some of the highest in the country. Possibly more important is the imbedded hard cost and energy costs of protecting, treating and pumping that water especially when the end use is for irrigation. In response the DPW has worked for several years to create a rain harvesting program that is environmentally sound and appropriate for the urban conditions of our Town and are happy to announce that the day is finally here!

What is rain harvesting all about? Well here in New England we receive about 44” of rain per year. Spread evenly over the course of the year and amongst the days of the month, this would normally be adequate to provide us with ample drinking water, as well as adequate irrigation for all of our crops, our trees, our farms, in short our landscapes. However, much of our rain comes in the spring and the fall and we approach arid conditions by mid summer. It is also common to have several wet days followed by numerous dry days. Rain harvesting provides a method of capturing the rains of spring for use in the summer and from wet days for use on dry days.

There are other environmental benefits associated with rain harvesting, including a more consistent groundwater infiltration process, a reduction in energy from water treatment and pumping systems, a reduction in the use of chemicals and an ability to balance the rain and water use cycle within our own communities.

Most importantly rain barrels have the ability to save our residents and our community money. The program we have developed is based on a 55 gallon durable plastic drum, with removable lids, screen guards and downspout diverter. The DPW has estimated that if all 300 barrels are well utilized, our residents can save between 450-550 cubic feet, or 3,600 gallons of water per year or about $65 per year. Collectively that is over $18,000 per year and 1 million gallons! The barrels were formally used in the import of olives, pickles and other “food grade” shipments and their re-use as rain barrels further decreases the “cradle-to-grave” cost.

There will be limited number of barrels available and they can be secured with a $20 advance pay, non-refundable deposit at the DPW. The checks should note “EPA rain barrel” in the memo line. Proof of residency is required. The barrels will be disturbed to the first 300 Winthrop residents that have made the advance deposit on Saturday June 12th between 8 and 11 am. No money will be accepted during the distribution. All sales must be done before June 10th. This first disbursement will be limited to 1 per household.

This project is undertaken in connection with the settlement of an enforcement action taken by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for all of our mutual goals to live in more sustainable communities.

FY11 Winthrop Public School Department Budget Documents Posted to Town Website

2010-05-28T15:31:00.001-07:00

Click here to open, download and/or print these documents.

Summer Hours for Winthrop Public Library effective June 1st

2010-05-28T14:50:00.000-07:00

WINTHROP PUBLIC LIBRARY

SUMMER HOURS

(June 1 – September 3, 2010)

ADULT CHILDREN’S

Monday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Tuesday: 12 p.m. – 8 p.m. 1 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Wednesday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Thursday: 12 p.m. – 8 p.m. 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Friday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. 1:30 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Saturday & Sunday: CLOSED

There are no Children’s Story Hours

during the summer months.

They will resume after Labor Day.

21st Century Math & Literacy Museum

2010-05-28T14:31:00.000-07:00

Click Here to go to Winthrop Facebook Page -- sign in or sign up to see more.....

Citgo Sign

Boston Light & Liberty Bell

Water Tower Hill

The children used items from their

home which were all recycled material

to make these beautiful works of art!!!

Memorial Day Parade Route and Map

2010-05-26T12:45:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day Parade

Route Map

Monday – May 31st @ 2PM

parade STARTS at PAULINE STREET (at Metcalf Square – corners of Library/Town Hall and Police Dept)
up PAULINE to PLEASANT
left onto PLEASANT
down PLEASANT
left onto RIVER RD
onto CROSS ST that runs along the Golf Course
ENDS at the parking lot of the Golf Course near Little League Field.

Click here to download & print a map of Parade Route.

Click here to find a municipal lot to park.

Board of Health 2010 Annual Rabies Clinic - Sat., June 26, 2010

2010-05-26T12:21:00.000-07:00

Winthrop Board of Health

2010 Annual Rabies Clinic*

LOCATION: Former DPW Garage, Winthrop Street

DATE: Saturday, June 26, 2010

TIME: 9:00AM to 11:00AM

FEE: $10.00 Rabies Shot for Dogs & Cats

Chapter 140, Sec., 145B General Laws states: All dogs must be vaccinated against rabies or owners will be punished by a $50.00 fine. Permission is hereby granted that my dog or cat may be vaccinated against rabies at a clinic under the Board of Health.

In addition, Dog Licensing will be available. Dog License is $10.00

All dogs must be on a leash.

All cats must be in a pet carrier.

* Please bring previous rabies certificate with you. This determines if your dog will be given a three-year shot.

Board of Health
Bridget P. Mulkerrin, Chair
Aldo Amatucci
James L. Little

Eric Moore, Public Health Administrator

Phone: 617-846-1740

Posted by Department of Information Technology on behalf of BOH - Wednesday, May 26, 2010 - mk

Winthrop can Win $10K - Read & Vote

2010-05-26T11:51:00.000-07:00

Contest for July 4th Celebration

Winthrop can win $10K

Please read & Vote

The more votes we get the better our chances to win, let's do it right for July 4th this year.

Louie from Soundsystems

wants Winthrop to win!!!

Click here for more information.

Liberty Mutual's Bring Back the 4thTM

Nothing says Fourth of July like a neighborhood fireworks show or parade. But in recent years, many U.S. towns were forced to cancel their official Independence Day events, when funding ran short. We'd like to help.

From now until June 14th, Liberty Mutual is hosting a contest allowing towns across America to compete for $10,000 Bring Back the 4th grants. We are offering 10 grants total, divided between small, medium and large towns.

How can you earn a grant for your town? Click the above link to take a brief quiz on "Responsible Moments in U.S. History," focusing on people and events that helped shape our nation and inspire others. Each completed quiz counts as one credit towards a BringBackThe4th.com visitor's town, and credits are earned by quiz completion alone, not by quiz score.

The 10 U.S. towns that successfully encourage the highest quiz participation among their residents will be eligible to win $10,000 grants! Winners will be notified and announced during the week of June 14th.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rules and Information
One quiz may be taken per person
Grants may only be used for Fourth of July events
Last day to take quiz: June 14
For questions, contact: BBT4@LibertyMutual.com

Funding must go to a city or a town administrator for the purpose of using Bring Back the 4th grants for Fourth of July events organized by your city or town. If you represent an independent organization that supports your city or town's Fourth of July celebration, please contact your local municipal administrator to coordinate your effort.

Support Winthrop Firefighter Lopez on his 24-hour Run

2010-05-21T20:11:00.000-07:00

SUPPORT

Winthrop Firefighter Lopez

tomorrow at Deer Island

He is running for 24-hours

to raise money for

Winthrop children

in sports (sport fees)

Viking Pride

Deer Island

Saturday, May 22, 2010 at 9AM

2010 Town of Winthrop Memorial Day Program of Events

2010-05-20T11:30:00.000-07:00

Town of Winthrop

Memorial Day Program 2010

May 30-31, 2010

Click here to download, print your program flyer of events.

Sunday, May 30, 2010

8:30 AM - Marine Service @ Cottage Park Yacht Club

10 AM - Memorial Church Service - St John the Evangelist

Monday, May 31, 2010

9:45 AM - Assemble Winthrop Cemetery

10AM - Memorial Service

2PM - Parade

May 22 (Saturday) - Join us as we prepare for Memorial Day with Cleaning the Bronze Veteran Markers in both Winthrop Cemeteries

2010-05-19T16:26:00.000-07:00

Join with us as we prepare for Memorial Day with the

cleaning of the bronze Veterans markers in both Winthrop Cemeteries.

This coming Saturday, May 22 at 8:00am, we could your help

as we honor those who have served in the United States military.

We will be cutting away and cleaning the over grown grass

on each of the bronze Veterans markers.

Bring your children and grand children

and explain the importance

of maintaining and respecting the graves

of our men and women who have served in the

Armed Forces of the United States of America.

Saturday, May 22, 2010 8:00am - 12:00pm

Meet at the Ocean View entrance,

opposite the Winthrop High School tennis courts

or the entrance to the Belle Isle Cemetery.

Any questions, please call, Richard Honan 617-846-5972

Bring your own garden spade, knife, small bucket, weed wacker

or tools, knives, brushes and small buckets will be provided.

Relay for Life - Saturday - June 18-19, 2010

2010-05-16T09:14:00.000-07:00

On Friday June 18th into Saturday June 19th the American Cancer Society is holding the annual Relay For Life at the East Boston Stadium.

There are two teams that I am aware of that are sponsored by Town of Winthrop employees.

The first is Team Turtle - Team Captain Carla Vitale.
Team Turtle's First Annual Fund Raising Event - Click Here to learn more.......
Carla Vitale @ cvitale@town.winthrop.ma.us

The second is Cops Against Cancer - Team Captain Mike Delehanty.
Mike Delehanty @ mdelehanty@town.winthrop.ma.us

We are jointly inviting you, all other town employees, families, and friends to get involved.

If you would like to walk in the relay, sponsor a walker, remember someone lost to cancer, celebrate a survivor's victory against cancer, or in any other way be involved, please do not hesitate, contact one of the team captains previously mentioned.

Or if you prefer, visit the American Cancer Society's web site, search the East Boston event, and choose how you would like to participate.

It is a great event and alot of fun.

Thank you for taking the time to read this BLOG and we all look forward to seeing you at the event!

Winthrop Plantings for Friends - June 12, 2010

2010-05-16T08:50:00.000-07:00

WINTHROP PLANTINGS FOR FREINDS , SAT JUNE 12, 2010

Type:

Other -

Date:	Saturday, June 12, 2010
Time:	12:00pm - 5:00pm
Location:	WINTHROP CEMETERY, tennis court entry

Description

June 12, at the Winthrop Cemetery, older section near the tennis courts,
we will be doing plantings for friends of WHS that have passed.
There is no longer perpetual care in Winthrop and a lot of our friends
do not have family nearby to care for their places of rest or their family is also passed on.
We have identified quite a few that have no flowers and are overgrown
with weeds. We will do our best to help as many as we can this year
and continue the effort as we go forward to celebrate the lives of our
departed friends.
Keeping Winthrop a beautful place to have grown up and a beautiful place
to rest.
Donations are needed for help, flowers, funds for this endeavor.
Thank you
Winthrop High School Classmates

Checks can be made out to:
The Whs Classmates Memoriam Fund
115 Foxglove Rd
Centerville, Ma. 02362

Name:

WINTHROP HIGH SCHOOL CLASSMATES MEMORIAM

Category:

Common Interest - Religion & Spirituality

Description:

This is to remember our near and dear that have departed from us too early... these were our classmates, friends and loved ones from Winthrop High School, Winthrop MA.

Each photo below represents a classmate that has left us too early. Please leave a memory as a memoriam legacy to them and for their families. Click on the photo and you can leave your memories under it.

Please share in the celebration of their life! Use good judgement and be sensitive to what you post. This is to be the sharing of uplifting happy times we shared with our friends.

You may add a photo of your friend, just add the name and year graduated from WHS or private school or email me a photo and i am happy to make the posting.
Missed but not forgotten...

Community Meeting - Precinct 5 - May 19, 2010 7-9PM @ CPYC

2010-05-12T09:10:00.000-07:00

Community Meeting

Wednesday, May 19, 2010 7PM – 9PM

Location: Cottage Park Yacht Club

On Wednesday, May 19, 2010 neighborhoods through Precinct 5 (which include all streets within Winthrop Street to Metcalf Square, Pauline Street to Lowell Road, Circuit Road, Maple Road, Pleasant Street from 4 to 304 and all street off of Pleasant Street between 4 and 304 Pleasant Street are being invited to meet with the Winthrop Police Department Administration in an educational forum designed to:

(1) Heighten awareness of activities in which have been occurring in your precinct;

(2) Tips on how not to become a victim;

(3) Generate support for, and participation in, Local anticrime efforts;

(4) Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police community partnerships; and

(5) Send a message to criminals letting them know neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

This invitation is extended to all elected officials as they are important part of any community policing initiative.

The Winthrop Police Department is here to help the residents of the Town of Winthrop take a stand against drug and crime activity. Please don’t be afraid to contact us anytime by calling 617) 846 1212 to report a crime or a suspicious situation within your neighborhood.

2nd Annaul Town-Wide Yard Sale June 19, 2010

2010-05-11T13:39:00.000-07:00

The 2nd annual Town-Wide Yard Sale will take place Saturday, June 19 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. There will be dozens of yard sales all over Winthrop that day! Find your hidden treasures using the official map.

Doing a yard sale this spring? Join your friends and neighbors for maximum exposure. Sign up and get your spot on the map: registration form. For just $20, you will get advertising locally, regionally, and on the internet; balloons delivered to your house in the morning; location on printed & online maps; and the yard sale permit. Deadline to sign up is June 7. Call 617-846-9898 for more information or check out our yard sale flyer. Visa and MasterCard accepted for seller registration fee.

Message from: Winthrop Chamber of Commerce

6th Annual "Sell-a-brate Spring" Sidewalk Sale Saturday, May 15, 2010

2010-05-11T13:32:00.000-07:00

Come and see what’s in store at the 6th annual "Sell-a-brate Spring" Sidewalk Sale on Saturday, May 15. There will be specials, promotions, and bargains galore at over 50 Winthrop businesses! Click here for list of all specials. Click here for BIZGO game card. Click here for kids activities.

Enter the shopping game “BIZGO” for a chance at a $500 grand prize! Visit participating businesses and make a purchase or transaction and you will get your game card stamped. Once you have three stamps, submit your card into the free drawing for a chance at fabulous prizes!

In addition to the super spring savings, there will be lots of activities for the kids too. There will be a free “Touch-A-Truck” event from 9:00 – 11:00 am at the Cummings School on Pauline Street where children can get up close to lots of big vehicles – and maybe even behind the wheel! Have your child car-seat inspected by a police officer that day from 10:00 am – 1:00 pm at Elliot Whittier Insurance, 12 Revere St. The Winthrop Jam Band will be playing at 11:00 in Winthrop Center. Kathy's Place Youth Center will have face-painting and other children's activities.

Clifford the Big Red Dog will be greeting his fans and posing for free photos (courtesy of Seraluna Productions) that day: 10:00 - Touch-A-Truck; 10:30 - Elliot Whittier Insurance; 11:00 - French Square; 11:30 - Hot Diggitty; 12:00 - Twist & Shake.

Discounts, deals, special offers… whatever you want to call it, you’ll find it at the Winthrop Chamber of Commerce Sidewalk Sale. This is a perfect opportunity to support the businesses that support our community! In the event of rain, all tables in French Square will be relocated to Michael's Mall.

SPEND IT HERE ~ KEEP IT HERE!

Message from Chamber of Commerce

Talk of the Town - Winthrop, MA

Winthrop Public School Building Survey

Compost OPEN on Bunker Hill Day - Friday, June 17th

Over 75 Homes in Winthrop to participate in Town-Wide Yard Sale Saturday

Marina Day celebration in Winthrop this Saturday June 11 10am to 4pm

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER

June 2011 Council on Aging News Letter

TOWN HALL PARKING LOT CLOSED

Winthrop Public Library & Museum CLOSED on June 6, 2011

2011 Summer Schedule for Winthrop Public Library & Museum

Community Health Needs Assessment Survey from Health Department

Press Release: KRT Appraisal to Assist with Winthrop's Revaluation

Partial List of Approved Parking on Designated Streets Effective 4PM Today

Public Safety Advisory on Potential Roof Collapses

Winthrop asks for all to Help to ....

Winter of Yesteryear in Winthrop, MA ..... Photos provided by Bob Gillis/Facebook/Winthrop

DPW Snow REMOVAL / Clean UP Efforts being done while PARKING BAN IS IN EFFECT

Settings to this BLOG have changed .......Due to Issues of SPAMMERS/SPAM

Message from Public Saftey -- Feb. 3, 2011

PRESS RELEASE Regarding Parking Ban -- Still In Effect -- Feb. 3, 2011

All Winthrop Public Schools - CLOSED Tomorrow

--- Public Library & Museum --- Info regarding Hours of Operation During this Storm

Water Forum Meeting Cancelled for Tonight and Rescheduled for Next Week

Reminder - Water Forum Public Meeting Tonight, Tues., Feb 1, 11 @ 7PM

Town wide Parking Ban in Effect starting This Morning Tuesday February 1, 2011 at 9AM

Town-wide Parking Ban Declared Effective 8PM Tonight, Wednesday, 01/26/2011

Message from Conservation - Boston Region Metro Planning Org - Press Release

Winthrop Public Library & Museum closed - Jan. 12, 2011

Winthrop Public Schools Cancelled for Wednesday, January 12, 2011

Delay in Trash Pickup for Wednesday, Thursday & Friday of this Week due to STORM

Town-wide Parking Ban Declared Effective 10PM Tonight, Tuesday, 01/11/2011

Christmas Tree Pickup Dates - Jan 3rd & 10th on your Regular Trash Day

Town-Wide Parking Ban Lifted Effective 12 midnight Monday, Dec. 27, 2010

Town-wide Parking Ban Declared Effective 1PM Today, Sunday, Dec. 26, 2010

Santa Claus is Coming to Town ...............

Message from the Winthrop Police Department - Halloween Safety Tips

Traffic Safety Advisory Committee Joint Community Meeting 10/25/2010 - Bus Rt Chg

MyRWA - SUPERFAN ??? Call for Volunteers .... for your community

MyRWA - Citizen Scientist Training Workshop - Nov. 6, 2010

MyRWA Annual Meeting Thursday, Oct 28, 2010

Season Flu Clinic this Saturday, October 23 from 9am to 1pm

Download your 2010 Parks & Recreation Fall Activities Program Guide -- Today !!

Fall Fair & Craft Show - Saturday October 2, 2010 11am - 3pm

http://www.thebostonchannel.com/video/25126639/detail.html

Winthrop in the News - Cape Ann walks away from Construction Project

Become a Friend of Fishermen's Bend

Drug Take - Back Program -- Winthrop Police & CASA

Message from Chamber of Commerce - Taste of Winthrop: Wednesday, September 15

Message from WCAT - Fund Raising Event - Cookout - Sept. 11 at Winthrop Elks

Swimmers and Boaters Urged to take Precautions During Hurricane EARL

MEMA Statement regarding "Pet Safety During a Hurricane"

MEMA OFFERS TIPS AS HURRICANE EARL APPROACHES

Town Wide Mosquito Control Spraying RESCHEDULED due to weather conditions

Wildlife Advisory for Winthrop, MA from BOH

Health Officials see increased risk of Mosquito-Borne Illnesses - Residents urged to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites

Town Wide Mosquito Control Spraying -- Wed., Aug. 25, 10 between 10pm & 2am

Safety Precautions for West Nile Virus

It is time to renew your Dog License for the 2011 season.

Customer Appreciation - the Meat Market -- 25 Years in Business!!!

Great Job!! Harbormaster Department -- A Job Well Done !!!

New Town Hall Hours Effective Monday, August 30, 2010

New Winthrop Ferry Schedule in Effect Monday, August 16, 2010

At the Playmakers -- "Broadway A to Z"

Sponsored

Health & Wellness Network Meeting - August 12

Sponsored

Hairspray August 12-22

Sponsored

Connect With More Friends

Wave n' Pave's End of Summer Skate Jam & Afterparty

Sponsored

Connect With More Friends

Invasion Alert !!! August 14 Town River Yacht Club will be invading the WYC

Today ~~~ Tavares at Miller Field ~~~ Tickets through Viking Pride Org.

Reminder ~~~~ Winthrop is hosting a great summer concert today that will benefit the Viking Pride Foundation.

Saturday Night Fever hits Winthrop when the band "Tavares" plays at Miller Field today, August 7th.

This is going to be a fun night of dance music from the 70s including hits " It only takes a Minute" and Heaven Must be Missing and Angel" and "More than a Woman."

Tickets are $30 and $50 - order at www.vikingpride.org.

The night will feature great music, food, prizes, adult beverages, must be over 21. Thank you!

New ferry option for Boston-bound commuters

Today ~ Tavares at Miller Field ~ Tickets through Viking Pride Org.