The Town of Brookline wishes to share important information regarding next week’s presidential election with voters.
The presidential election will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 3 and the polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Those voting on election day should be aware of the following requirements and suggestions to prevent the spread of COVID-19:
All voters will be required to wear a face mask or covering.
Bring a black or blue ink permanent marker or felt tip pen if you do not wish to borrow one.
Bring a clipboard or book to use when marking your ballot if you do not wish to make contact with the voting booth.
Avoiding touching your face while at the polling location.
Practice social distancing and maintain at least six feet of physical distance from anyone not from your household.
Keep your ballot dry and free from hand sanitizers to ensure to avoid tabulator issues.
Masks, gloves and hand sanitizer will be available at all polling locations.
Voters in Precinct 3, 7, 10 and 15 are reminded that polling locations have changed to the following locations:
Precinct 3 voting will be held in the gym of the Coolidge Corner School, 345 Harvard Street.
Voters should use the Stedman Street entrance.
Precinct 7 and 10 voting will be held in Brookline High School’s Schluntz Gymnasium, 115 Greenough St. Precinct 15 voting will be held in the lower-level cafeteria of Baker School, 205 Beverly Road.
Mail-in ballots for the Nov. 3 election must be postmarked by Nov. 3 and received by the Town Clerk no later than 5 p.m. on Nov. 6 in order to be counted. Ballots dropped off using the drop box MUST be delivered by 8 p.m. on Nov. 3.
If their vote-by-mail ballot has not been received by the Town Clerk’s Office prior to Election Day, voters can vote in person during the early voting period, or on Election day and their mail-in ballot will be rejected and not counted.
Anyone with questions about either the election or voting day procedures may call the Town Clerk’s Office at 617-730-2010.
Library Director Sara Slymon is pleased to announce several updates on the Public Library of Brookline’s operations, including expanded pickup hours and new programming.
Beginning today, hours for contactless pickup will change, and dozens of library staff members who were furloughed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic will return to work.
“I cannot say enough about the grace and flexibility all of our staff and patrons have shown in adapting to unpredictable and ever-changing circumstances,” Slymon said. “I am immensely proud of the work our staff has done over the last seven months to restore essential library services and continue serving our patrons and our community in new and unique ways. We will continue to evolve as the pandemic continues on, and will constantly be seeking ways to further expand services as we look forward to the day when we can once again welcome everyone back into our buildings safely.”
Brookline Village
Monday – Thursday: 09:30 a.m. to 08:30 p.m.
Friday-Saturday: 09:30 a.m. to 04:30 p.m.
Coolidge Corner
Mondays and Wednesdays: 09:30 a.m. to 05:30 p.m.
Tuesdays and Thursdays: 09:30 a.m. to 08:30 p.m.
Fridays and Saturdays: 09:30 a.m. to 04:30 p.m.
Putterham
Mondays and Wednesdays: 09:30 a.m. to 08:30 p.m.
Tuesdays and Thursdays: 09:30 a.m. to 05:30 p.m.
Fridays and Saturdays: 09:30 a.m. to 04:30 p.m.
Picture Book Surprise Bundles
Additionally, earlier this week the library’s Youth Services Team launched Picture Book Surprise Bundles, which feature 10 randomly selected picture books that families will receive without needing to place holds. Families can simply request a picture book surprise at the front desk, and staff will hand select their bundle for them.
Normal Loan Periods Resume
The library has resumed its traditional loan periods, so patrons are encouraged to keep an eye on their accounts. All items that were checked out during the spring or summer are due back on November 02, 2020, and materials can be returned using the book drops at any Brookline Library location.
Library Interiors Remain Closed for Now While library staff are working with Architects for Public Benefit to re-work the interiors of individual libraries to promote social distancing and well being, the interiors of all libraries are still closed to the public at this time.
For the latest information about library programming, visit brooklinelibrary.org.
The Highway and Sanitation Division of the Brookline Public Works Department announces that it has launched the We Recycle Brookline smartphone app and is extending household hazardous waste drop-off through November.
“We are extremely excited about the We Recycle Brookline app, which will make it easier than ever for residents to reduce and properly dispose of their household waste through recycling and composting,” Gallentine said. “Additionally, the extension of the household hazardous waste drop-off season is a great way for residents to safely dispose of potentially dangerous items and chemicals that should never be thrown in with regular household trash.”
Smartphone App Helps Streamline Sanitation
The We Recycle Brookline app serves as an information center for Brookline residents, with updates about collection schedules — including trash pickup delays due to holidays and inclement weather — as well as a resource for information on how to properly dispose of or recycle common items.
The app is expected to have additional features in the future, and residents are encouraged to download it to stay informed about sanitation related information in town.
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Hazardous Waste Drop-Off Extended Through November
Household hazardous waste drop-off at the Brookline Transfer Station has been extended through November 24, 2020, to help ensure residents are properly disposing of household hazardous materials. Household hazardous waste is accepted at the Transfer Station, 815 Newton Street, on Tuesdays from 07:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Accepted items include, but are not limited to: fertilizers, art supplies, products containing mercury, household cleaners, automotive fluids and chemicals. For a full list of what is — and is not — accepted, click here.
Household composting is also accepted during household hazardous waste collection. Residents may also sign up for curbside composting pickup for a nominal fee through the town’s partnership with Black Earth Compost by visiting blackearthcompost.com.
Curbside compost pickup is available for $59.99 per six months, and if more than 3,000 Brookline households sign up then the collection price would drop to $49.99 per six months. Compost is picked up weekly.
About these programs: The Town’s programs are supported by the Solid Waste Advisory Committee, a board of seven residents appointed by the Select Board, whose mission is to promote increased recycling participation by Brookline residents and businesses. Increased recycling helps to effectively decrease the waste stream and create a more sustainable community.
The most effective way to increase recycling and reduce the Town’s impact on the environment is to provide education on the programs and initiatives available. Check out The Recycling Corner in the Brookline Tab for regular information about recycling initiatives in Brookline.
More information can also be found on the Town’s website here, by contacting the Program Manager, Ed Gilbert, at egilbert@brooklinema.gov or by calling the main line at 617-879-4900.
Health Commissioner Dr. Swannie Jett announces that a COVID-19 testing site will open in Brookline next month and operate through the end of 2020.
The Brookline Department of Public Health has partnered with mPathy, LLC to establish a COVID-19 testing site in town, which will open on November 02, 2020 outside the Public Health building at 11 Pierce Street for town residents, Public Schools of Brookline students and teachers, as well as town staff.
“Testing is a key tool in our effort to keep COVID-19 at bay, and we’re glad to be able to offer it as a resource to people in our community,” Dr. Jett said.
PCR swab tests will be available on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 06:00 p.m. and Wednesdays and Fridays from 08:00 a.m. to 04:00 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments can be made by booking online here. The testing program will run from November 02 until December 31, 2020.
Testing will be available for both symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals, however, only the costs for those displaying symptoms will be processed through the patients’ health insurance provider. Asymptomatic individuals will be required to pay $140. Asymptomatic individuals who seek testing may request reimbursement for the expense through their insurance company.
Testing will be conducted outdoors in tents in the Health Department parking lot for as long as weather consistently permits. When the weather gets colder, testing will be moved to the Denny Room, which is located on the lower level of the Brookline Department of Public Health Building.
For more information about the Town of Brookline’s ongoing response to the COVID-19 pandemic, please visit BrooklineCOVID19.com.
For information about free Stop the Spread testing facilities in other communities, please visit here.
The Brookline Parks and Open Space Division wishes to provide an update on drought conditions in the community, as well as guidance for residents on how they can support tree health town-wide.
Communities across the southeast region and within the Charles River Watershed, including Brookline, have been issued a Level 3 Drought Status (Critical Drought) by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Additionally, Brookline’s streams are in low-flow conditions, groundwater reserves are decreasing and the risk for drought-induced fires has increased.
The Town’s drinking water is sourced from the Quabbin Reservoir, which has been carefully managed and has seen a successful reduction in water usage over the past several decades. While water levels at the reservoir are within the normal operating range for this time of year, it is important to conserve water and support the water conservation efforts of the communities immediately surrounding the reservoir.
While there are no current restrictions on water consumption for drinking, irrigation or other uses, this critical drought has resulted in significant environmental impacts.
Intensely dry conditions can cause trees to experience “drought stress”, which kills young roots and reduces the plant’s ability to absorb sufficient water. If trees – particularly young trees without extensive root systems – do not receive adequate rainfall or sufficient supplementary watering, a sharp increase in tree mortality is likely.
Trees are invaluable to Brookline’s ecosystem, not only for their aesthetic importance, but also for their numerous environmental functions, including the reduction of flooding, energy consumption and air pollution. Every year, the Parks and Open Space Division plants approximately 350 to 400 new trees along streets and in parks throughout Brookline.
While regular spring planting operations were delayed due to COVID-19, planting efforts are underway this fall. In order to keep young street trees healthy, the town is calling upon members of the community to help.
Residents with a new or young street tree in front of their property are asked to water it frequently until the first hard frost. Trees need at least 10-15 gallons of water applied to their roots every 7-10 days during a drought. If there is a “Tree Gator” slow-release watering bag on the base of a street tree, be sure to keep it filled with water. Look out for indicators such as wilting and dropping leaves, which may be symptoms of drought stress. If you see a tree that is damaged or needs additional care, please call the Brookline Parks and Open Space Division at 617-879-5650.
For private trees and landscaping, the Parks and Open Space Division recommends capturing rainwater in rain barrels and using this source for outdoor watering. Larger, established trees with well-developed root systems should be watered every two to three weeks. Residents should let the top few inches of soil dry out between watering to avoid saturated conditions, which may damage the roots.
Those looking to plant on private property are urged to consider planting drought-resistant plants and trees. Contact an arborist or private tree company if you have a private tree in need of additional attention.
Winter is steadily approaching and we’ve compiled a list of several tips to help you prepare your private trees for the season ahead:
Freshen the mulch around your tree(s) by adding two to four inches of wood chips, bark or other organic matter (such as leaves) near the base of the tree(s) (but not against it).
Prune. Make sure all deadwood is pruned away before the snow comes! Please note that residents are prohibited from doing work, such as pruning, on Town-owned trees.
Remove any slow-release watering bags as soon as winter arrives and the ground freezes. The tree trunk and tree flare should be exposed to the air.
Remove any dead or declining trees. Trees that are in significant decline should be removed by a qualified tree removal company.
As Daylight saving time nears an end, Fire Chief John F. Sullivan and the Brookline Fire Department would like to remind residents to change the batteries in their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms when resetting their clocks next weekend.
Daylight saving time ends on Sunday, November 01, 2020 at 02:00 a.m., and clocks will move back one hour at that time.
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), having working smoke alarms reduces the risk of dying in a fire by 50 percent and, on average, three out of every five fire deaths occur in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms. Additionally, dead batteries are the cause of 25 percent of smoke alarm failures.
The Brookline Fire Department asks that all business owners not only change the batteries in their clocks, smoke or carbon monoxide alarms, but also replace the batteries on wall mounted emergency lights and exit signs. All businesses should have emergency backup lighting as a safety feature to provide temporary lighting in case of power failure.
“This time of year serves as a great reminder for residents and business owners to check that their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are working properly and change the batteries,” Chief Sullivan said. “Simply changing the batteries on these detectors can significantly reduce the risk of injury or death from fire.”
In order to continue to keep your home safe and prevent fires, Chief Sullivan recommends that residents follow safety tips outlined by NFPA:
Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms at least once a month using the test button. Replace alarms immediately if they don’t respond properly when tested.
Replace batteries in smoke and CO alarms when you change your clocks.
Replace all smoke alarms when they reach 10 years old. Replace CO detectors according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
CO alarms should be installed in a central location outside each sleeping area, on every level of the home, and in other locations where required by applicable laws, codes or standards. For the best protection, interconnect all CO alarms throughout the home. When one sounds, they all sound.
If the CO alarm sounds, immediately move to a fresh air location outdoors or by an open window or door. Make sure everyone inside the home is accounted for. Call for help from a fresh air location and stay in that spot until emergency personnel arrive.
Develop and practice a home escape plan with all members of the household.
The battery replacement process is fairly simple and batteries can be purchased for most units at a local hardware, grocery or convenience store.
For more information on smoke detector and CO alarm safety, visit the NFPA website or contact the Brookline Fire Department at 617-730-2260.
Brookline has historically been a hotbed of sporting talent, with stars in many sports emerging from the local area.
In the paragraphs below we pay homage to some of the standout Brookline performers of past and present.
Bill Seibolt never quite lived up to the promise he showed in his formative years, but is still a Brookline legend
Bill Seibolt
Bill Seibolt was a 6’4” and 235-pound wrecking machine who started out life playing football in Brookline before heading to Penn where he caught the eye of CFL teams.
Having done his stint in Canada he then switched footballing codes to play for the – as they were known then – Washington Redskins, whose current roster could certainly do with a man like Seibolt to come and convince sports writers tasked with making NFL picks that they are a team worth backing again.
Francis DeSales Ouimet
Francis DeSales Ouimet is the man known in most golfing quarters as the father of amateur golf. The story goes that he came from nowhere to beat a star-studded field at the 1913 US Open.
The rest, as they say, is history with Quimet going on to captain the US Walker Cup team as well as to claim two amateur world championships.
He made waves across the pond too, being the first American ever to be made captain at the famous old St Andrews course in Scotland.
Throughout his golfing career Ouimet stayed true to his amateur roots and gained plenty of respect as a result
Paul Pender
Of all the great Brookline sportsmen of yesteryear no one has quite as great an accomplishment under their belt as middleweight boxer Paul Pender does, because he beat arguably the best pound for pound boxer ever seen in the shape of Sugar Ray Robinson and repeated the feat in the pair’s rematch.
Although it could be argued that Robinson was on the slide after a 200 pro fight career, that still should not detract from Pender’s achievement.
He eventually managed to do what so few boxers are capable of, walking away from the sport as champion of the world, to carry on his career as a firefighter in Massachusetts.
Richard Moloney
Moloney’s abilities were clear from an early age, with him consistently launching no hitters in the little leagues before going all the way to the MLB with the Chicago White Sox.
In the end injury put the brakes on a promising career, although he did stick it out for five years in the windy city.
Brookline Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ: BRKL) (the “Company”) announced today that Janytra Brooks has been promoted to Chief Human Resources Officer. Brookline Bancorp, Inc. is the multi-bank holding company for Brookline Bank and Bank Rhode Island and their subsidiaries – Eastern Funding and Macrolease. She succeeds Sandra Jenkins who retired from the role on October 01, 2020. In her new position, Brooks will oversee the overall development and execution of human resources operations that support the strategic direction of the Company and its subsidiaries. Her responsibilities include, talent management, compensation, succession planning, organizational and performance management, change management, and training and development.
“We are pleased to promote Janytra to be Brookline Bancorp’s new Chief Human Resources Officer,” said Paul Perrault, President & CEO of Brookline Bancorp. “The talented team we have assembled across our banks and subsidiaries distinguishes us in the banking world. Janytra has been a leader on our Employment Team, a strong collaborator and strategic thinker. We look forward to her contributions on the Executive Team.”
Prior to joining the Company in 2018, Brooks’ more than 15-year career in Human Resources spans a variety of industries, including healthcare, technology and gaming. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Hartford, and a certification in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion from Cornell University. She is also certified by the Society of Human Resources Management. Brooks is a resident of Waltham, MA.
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Brookline Bancorp, Inc. Company Profile
Brookline Bancorp, Inc. is a multi-bank holding company for Brookline Bank, First Ipswich Bank, and Bank Rhode Island and their subsidiaries. Headquartered in Boston, MA, the Company has $7.29 billion in assets and branches throughout Massachusetts and Rhode Island. As a commercially-focused financial institution, the Company, through its banks, offers a wide range of commercial, business and retail banking services, including a full complement of cash management products, on-line banking services, consumer and residential loans and investment services designed to meet the financial needs of small-to mid-sized businesses and retail customers. The Company also provides equipment financing through its Eastern Funding and Macrolease Corporation subsidiaries.
With Election Day now just weeks away, the Town Clerk’s Office wishes to remind residents of some important dates and details they need to know before submitting their ballot or visiting the polls.
The deadline to register to vote in the November 03, 2020 presidential election is Saturday, October 24, 2020.
Early voting will be available for all registered voters. All early voting will be held in Room 103 at Town Hall, 333 Washington Street. Voters will not need to fill out an application or make an appointment ahead of time. Only six (6) voters will be allowed in the Town Hall polling place to vote early at any given time and as such, voters may have to wait to vote.
The early voting period for the presidential election takes place from October 17-30, 2020,and early voting will be available on each of the days of the early voting period.
Town Hall will be open for early voting on the following dates and times:
Saturday, October 17, 2020: 08:30 a.m. to 01:30 p.m.;
Sunday, October 18,2020: 08:30 a.m. to 01:30 p.m.;
Monday, October 19,2020: 08:30 a.m. to 04:00 p.m.;
Tuesday, October 20, 2020: 08:30 a.m. to 04:00 p.m.;
Wednesday, October 21, 2020: 08:30 a.m. to 04:00 p.m.;
Thursday, October 22, 2020: 08:30 a.m. to 08:00 p.m.;
Friday, October 23, 2020: 08:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.;
Saturday, October 24, 2020: 08:30 a.m. to 01:30 p.m.;
Sunday, October 25, 2020: 08:30 a.m. to 01:30 p.m.;
Monday, October 26, 2020: 08:30 a.m. to 04:00 p.m.;
Tuesday, October 27,2020: 08:30 a.m. to 04:00 p.m.;
Wednesday, October 28,2020: 08:30 a.m. to 04:00 p.m.;
Thursday, October 29, 2020: 08:30 a.m. to 08:00 p.m.;
Friday, October 30, 2020: 08:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Those who vote early in person should be aware of the following requirements and suggestions to prevent the spread of COVID-19:
Face coverings are required in Brookline, including inside Town Hall. Bring a pen, such as a blue or black ink sharpie or Paper Mate Flair, if you do not want to borrow one. Bring a clipboard or book to use when marking your ballot if you do not want to use a voting booth. Bring an ID, as voters will be required to show an ID in some cases. Do not touch your face while at the polling location. Maintain a social distance of at least six feet from anyone who is not from your household.
Vote By Mail or Drop Off Your Ballot at Town Hall
Staff at the Town Clerk’s Office are processing and distributing mail-in ballots by the thousands each day, and many voters have already returned their completed ballots to the drop box outside Town Hall.
All registered voters can vote by mail for the upcoming election, and are encouraged to allow for ample time for the processing of the application and for the postal service to deliver the ballot. Those who have not already applied to vote by mail should plan to vote early at Town Hall or in-person on election day.
Voters who have already applied for mail-in ballots are strongly urged to deliver their ballots themselves to the drop box outside Town Hall. Applications and ballots that have been mailed can be tracked here.
Voters should remember to sign and print their names, as well as date the yellow return envelope contained in your ballot package.
Ballots for the November 03, 2020 election must be postmarked by November 03, 2020and received by the Town Clerk no later than 05:00 p.m. on November 06, 2020 in order to be counted. Ballots dropped off using the drop box MUST be delivered by 08:00 p.m. on November 03, 2020.
Ballots returned by mail should be addressed to the Town Clerk’s Office at PO Box 470860, Brookline, MA 02447.
The Town Clerk’s Office has extensive protocols in place to ensure that ballots are counted once, including keeping those that come in early secured and noting which voters have already submitted ballots so that they may not also vote in person on Election Day.
If their vote-by-mail ballot has not been received by the Town Clerk’s Office prior to Election Day, voters can vote in person during the early voting period, or on Election day and their mail-in ballot will be rejected and not counted.
More information about the election, including in-person voting locations and requirements, can be found here. Anyone with questions about either election should call the Town Clerk’s Office at 617-730-2010.
The Town of Brookline announces it will extend the outdoor dining season into December.
In order to support restaurants that were adversely impacted by the stay-at-home orders necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Select Board voted to extend outdoor dining until December 07, 2020. The extended temporary outdoor seating program was initially set to come to an end on November 01, 2020.
Restaurants that choose to maintain their patio seating will have the opportunity to obtain permits for temporary, portable liquid propane heaters in order to maintain a comfortable environment into the colder weeks later this fall. Under the pilot program, restaurants may utilize propane heaters as long as they meet a variety of safety requirements outlined by the town and Brookline Fire Department.
Several departments contributed to the effort to extend outdoor dining into late fall, including the Department of Public Works, Building Department, Fire Department, Department of Public Health, Town Counsel and the Licensing Office.
“Our restaurant community has been hit hard by the impacts of the pandemic, and we’re eager to support them however we can as they seek to continue safely serving residents and visitors,” Economic Development Director Kara Brewton said. “I am grateful for the collaborative effort by the Select Board, town staff, the Fire Department and our business partners that helped make this possible.”
Restaurants that already have permanent or temporary patio seating will be required to obtain permits to extend their operations into December.
As part of National Fire Prevention Week, Chief John F. Sullivan and the Brookline Fire Department would like to provide cooking safety tips, and are also encouraging everyone to create a home escape plan in the event of a fire.
National Fire Prevention Week, organized by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) began this year on Sunday, October 04, 2020 and ends on Saturday, October 10, 2020. The annual campaign seeks to educate and provide the public with valuable safety recommendations and steps they can take to prevent possible fires and react properly in the event of a fire.
The theme of the 2020 National Fire Prevention Week is “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!” in an effort to remind people of simple but important steps to take in the kitchen to prevent fires and injuries.
According to the NFPA, cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries in the United States. Unattended cooking is the main cause of kitchen fires and almost two-thirds of home cooking fires start with the ignition of food or other cooking materials.
The NFPA estimates that from 2014-18, U.S. fire departments responded to approximately 172,900 home cooking fires per year. These incidents caused a yearly average of 550 civilian deaths, 4,820 civilian fire injuries, and approximately $1 billion in property damage.
The Brookline Fire Department wishes to share the following safety tips provided by the NFPA:
Cooking
Stand by your pan when cooking. Do not leave food, grease or oils cooking on the stove unattended.
If you are simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, check it regularly, and use a timer to remind yourself that you’re cooking.
Remain in the home while using the stove or oven. If you have to leave, turn the appliance off.
Keep pot handles turned inward to prevent accidental spills of hot contents.
Keep flammable objects such as potholders, towels, paper, or plastic bags away from heating elements.
Create a three-foot “child-free zone” around the stove. Keep children and pets away from the stove while cooking to prevent burns and scalds.
Avoid wearing loose-hanging clothing that can catch fire. If your clothing catches fire, stop, drop, and roll to put out flames.
Never discharge a portable fire extinguisher into a grease fire. Put a lid on a grease fire to smother it, then turn off the heat. Baking soda will also work.
For fires inside an oven or microwave, keep the door closed, turn off the appliance, and call the fire department.
In the event of a fire, leave the building immediately and call 911. All fires and burns, regardless of size, should be reported to the fire department.
Home Fire Escape Planning and Practice
Create a home escape plan, and make a map. Share that plan with all members of your household. Designate a minimum of two ways to get out of each room, if possible.
Teach children how they can escape, should they need to get out of the home on their own.
Designate an outside meeting place a safe distance away from the home where everyone in your household should meet in the event of a fire.
Brookline residents should also remember that fire pits, such as those that operate using wood or propane, are prohibited town-wide.
For more fire safety information and tips visit the NFPA website here.
Public Health Commissioner Dr. Swannie Jett would like to share guidance and safety tips for Halloween celebrations this year to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Consistent with CDC guidelines, the Town strongly discourages traditional, door to door trick-or-treating this year. Residents should shut off their exterior entry lighting to reinforce this policy. Should residents decide to take part in safer trick-or-treating, they could provide individually wrapped candies or goody bags at the end of their driveway or walkway for neighborhood children to take.
In addition, the Town will not be approving any street closures or block parties this year in order to discourage large groups of trick-or-treaters and others from congregating in close proximity.
“Door to door trick-or-treating is contradictory to the efforts we’ve all made throughout this pandemic, so I want to encourage everyone to consider safer alternatives,” Dr. Jett said. “We have done tremendous work as a community to keep our overall COVID-19 risk low to this point, and we want to ensure we’re doing everything we can by taking reasonable precautions while still celebrating Halloween.”
Residents are also asked to take the following precautions from the Department of Public Health if they choose to trick-or-treat this year:
Wear a face mask or face covering. For more information on face masks and face coverings, please see the state’s Mask Up MA webpage;
Observe good hand hygiene, including hand washing and use of alcohol-based sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol. Carry hand sanitizer and use it often, especially after coming into contact with frequently touched surfaces and before eating candy;
Refrain from touching your face;
Stay home and refrain from Halloween activities, including handing out Halloween treats, if:
you feel unwell;
you have tested positive for COVID-19;
you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19; or
you have traveled to or from a state that is not classified as lower risk within the last 14 days. For more information on lower risk states, please see the state’s COVID-19 Travel Orderwebpage.
Maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet of physical distance from all other participants who are not members of the same household.
Additionally, the Brookline Department of Public Health would like to share the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists of several low and moderate risk alternative activities that community members can take part in for Halloween.
Lower risk alternatives include:
Carving or decorating pumpkins with members of your household and displaying them, or at a safe distance, with neighbors or friends;
Decorating your house, apartment, or living space;
Doing a Halloween scavenger hunt where children are given lists of Halloween-themed things to look for while they walk outdoors from house to house admiring Halloween decorations at a distance;
Having a virtual Halloween costume contest;
Having a Halloween movie night with people you live with;
Having a scavenger hunt-style trick-or-treat search with your household members in or around your home rather than going house to house.
Community members may participate in moderate-risk activities, as long as they take the proper safety precautions. These include:
Having a small group, outdoor, open-air costume parade where people are distanced more than 6 feet apart;
Attending a costume party held outdoors where protective masks are used and people can remain more than 6 feet apart;
A costume mask (such as for Halloween) is not a substitute for a cloth mask. A costume mask should not be used unless it is made of two or more layers of breathable fabric that covers the mouth and nose and does not leave gaps around the face.
Do not wear a costume mask over a protective cloth mask because it can be dangerous if the costume mask makes it hard to breathe. Instead, consider using a Halloween-themed cloth mask.
Going to an open-air, one-way, walk-through haunted forest where appropriate mask use is enforced, and people can remain more than 6 feet apart
If screaming will likely occur, greater distancing is advised. The greater the distance, the lower the risk of spreading a respiratory virus.
Visiting pumpkin patches or orchards where people use hand sanitizer before touching pumpkins or picking apples, wearing masks is encouraged or enforced, and people are able to maintain social distancing;
Having an outdoor Halloween movie night with local family friends with people spaced at least 6 feet apart
If screaming will likely occur, greater distancing is advised. The greater the distance, the lower the risk of spreading a respiratory virus.
Residents are asked to avoid higher risk activities this Halloween in order to prevent the spread of the virus. These activities include:
Participating in traditional trick-or-treating where treats are handed to children who go door-to-door;
Having trunk-or-treat where treats are handed out from trunks of cars lined up in large parking lots;
Attending crowded costume parties held indoors;
Going to an indoor haunted house where people may be crowded together and screaming;
Going on hayrides or tractor rides with people who are not in your household;
Using alcohol or drugs, which can cloud judgement and increase risky behaviors;
Traveling to a rural fall festival that is not in your community if you live in an area with community spread of COVID-19.
More information and holiday safety tips from the CDC can be found here.
As flu season approaches, the Brookline Department of Public Health reminds residents that everyone should receive the flu vaccine yearly.
“It is especially important, as we are in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, to stay healthy,” Health Commissioner Dr. Swannie Jett said. “In addition to the clinics the Town is offering, we urge Brookline residents to contact their primary care providers to receive the flu vaccine or visit a number of local businesses that also offer flu shots, several which may have the high-dose vaccine.”
The Brookline Department of Public Health will run three seasonal flu clinics this fall, both drive-thru and walk-in, all outdoors. The clinics will operate from 10:00 a.m. – 01:00 p.m., by appointment only with advance registration. The high-dose influenza vaccine will NOT be available at any Brookline Health Department flu clinics; limited Flu Mist will be available.
Flu clinics are open to all Brookline residents: adults, seniors, and children 6 months and older. Individuals without health insurance are welcome; there will be no charge.
Dates and locations for the Brookline Department of Public Health clinics are:
Saturday, October 24, 2020, at Larz Anderson Park, 25 Newton St. This clinic will be drive-through only. Registration can be completed here.
Saturday, November 07, 2020, at Pierce Elementary School, 50 School St. This clinic will be both drive-through and walk up. Drive-through should enter from Washington Street by the Public Library of Brookline. Residents should be aware that there is a vehicle height restriction of 6’10” at the school. Walk-ins should enters at Harvard Street, across from Brookline Spa. Registration can be completed here.
Sunday, November 15, 2020, at Pierce Elementary School, 50 School Street. This clinic will be both drive-through and walk up. Drive-through should enter from Washington Street by the Public Library of Brookline. Residents should be aware that there is a vehicle height restriction of 6’10” at the school. Walk-in should enter at Harvard Street, across from Brookline Spa. Registration can be completed here.
Those who do not have access to a computer may call the Health Department at 617-730-2641 during normal business hours to set up an appointment. For those who register online, they will receive confirmation within three days.
Residents are asked to bring all insurance and Medicare cards, and a form of ID with them to the clinic. Residents should also wear a short-sleeved or loose fitting shirt. Face masks will be required.
The Brookline Flu Clinics are co-sponsored by the Public Schools of Brookline and the Brookline Office of Emergency Management. For further information, please contact the Health Department by phone 617-730-2641 or e-mail vaccine@brooklinema.gov.
Recreation Director Leigh Jackson and Health Commissioner Dr. Swannie Jett announce that a participant in Brookline Recreation’s grades 7 and 8 coed soccer program has tested positive for COVID-19.
One player who took part in a game on Saturday morning, October 03, 2020, tested positive for the novel coronavirus after developing symptoms on Sunday, October 04, 2020. The affected child is experiencing mild symptoms and is now isolating at home.
“We are working with the Recreation Department to ensure that we are following all protocols, including following up with all of the families who may have been affected by this case,” Dr. Jett said.
In accordance with Department of Public Health recommendations and Recreation Department policy, practices and games for the affected player’s team and the team they played on October 03, 2020 have been cancelled through this weekend. Decisions about future games will be made at a later date.
The Recreation Department and Brookline Department of Public Health have been in contact with families of the two impacted teams and informed them of next steps they should take. Additionally, schedules for the two unaffected grades 7 and 8 coed soccer division teams have been modified so they can continue to play.
“Our utmost concern is the health and well being of all of our program participants,” Jackson said. “We’re grateful for the community’s continued support of Brookline Recreation, and we are committed to doing all we can to ensure the continued success of our programming while being mindful of the need to adapt as circumstances require.”
Recreation Director Leigh Jackson is pleased to announce that Brookline’s Evelyn Kirrane Aquatics Center will re-open Monday following a prolonged closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The facility will undergo a soft re-opening Monday, October 05, 2020, with residents and non-residents invited to swim during half of its open hours as staff adapts to the new protocols and makes any adjustments that are deemed necessary once the re-opening has begun.
The aquatics center will be open from 06:30 a.m. to 01:15 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday, and from 09:30 a.m. to 04:15 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday for the foreseeable future.
Residents and non-residents who wish to swim must make reservations for 45 minute swimming blocks ahead of time using Brookline Recreation’s new online registration system, SmartRec. In order to use the system, residents must first create an account, which they can do by visitng here.
Pool areas will be individually reserved, and guests can reserve lanes, segments of the diving well and lesson pool or the entire diving well or lesson pool. Lanes will be restricted to one person at a time, and the lesson pool and dive well will be restricted to no more than eight people if they are all from the same household.
Residents may book pool time up to one week in advance. The online system allows guests to book specific pool areas, and reservation durations are currently limited to 45 minutes. For a step-by-step walkthrough of how to use the reservation system for the pool, please visit here.
“This is going to be an adjustment for all of us as we get used to our temporary new normal and continue our efforts to re-open our recreation facilities,” Jackson said. “I ask that all guests be mindful of the challenges we’re all facing due to COVID-19 and exercise patience with staff as we navigate this re-opening together.”
Safety Protocols in Place
Due to COVID-19, swimmers will notice several changes from the last time they visited the aquatics center. All of these changes are designed to keep swimmers and staff safe and prevent the spread of COVID-19.
all visitors and staff must wear a mask at all times when they are not in the pool;
each area will undergo cleaning and sanitization in between guests;
new markers have been installed to facilitate one-way traffic into and out of the building and on the pool deck in order to support social distancing;
locker rooms are closed, and family changing rooms are open only for toilet and sink use;
visitors may not linger in the lobby;
water fountains are closed, except for touchless water bottle refilling;
visitors may not share equipment with other guests;
deep end tests are suspended;
the lost and found will not be available;
immediate building closure in the event someone exhibits COVID-19 symptoms, and at least a 24-hour closure if they test positive for COVID-19;
staff have undergone extensive, specialized training to deal with COVID-19 related issues.
In addition, the aquatics center has adopted enhanced cleaning procedures that will be undertaken on a daily basis in addition to cleaning and sanitization between guests. Also, hand sanitizer stations have been installed throughout the facility.
Health Commissioner Dr. Swannie Jett announces that the Brookline Department of Public Health is partnering with community organizations to host a panel discussion about the science of controlling the COVID-19 pandemic.
Those interested attending via Zoom must register in advance and can do so here. The panel will also be broadcast and livestreamed through various platforms.
“This discussion will help provide a better understanding of the science involved in fighting the pandemic and give community members the opportunity to ask any questions they may have on the topic,” Health Commissioner Jett said. “Thank you to all who helped to organize this event and to the panelists for sharing their expertise with Brookline residents.”
The event will take place on Wednesday, October 07, 2020, starting at 07:30 p.m.
The program will be held virtually. To view the program on the day of the event, please go to Brookline Cable TV, Comcast and RCN Channel 3 or click here to watch it online.
Panelists:
Carey Goldberg, editor of CommonHealth at WBUR;
Ofer Levy, director of the Precision Vaccines Program at Boston Children’s Hospital;
Jennifer Lo, medical director at the Boston Public Health Commission;
Michael McGovern, chair of the Rotary International Polio-Plus Committee;
Thomas Tsai, assistant professor at the Harvard School of Public Health and advisor to the US Department of Health and Human Services.
The panel will be moderated by WBUR’s Carey Goldberg and panelists will discuss ways to end the pandemic, including a vaccine that is in development. Panelists will also answer selected questions submitted ahead of time, which can be sent in here.
Those interested attending via Zoom must register in advance. To register, please visit here.
The event is sponsored by Brookline Rotary, the Brookline Department of Public Health, Brookline Parents Organization, Brookline Adult and Community Education, and several other New England based Rotary clubs from Massachusetts to Maine.
More information about the event can be found here.
The Select Board invites residents to take part in a joint session of the two committees addressing policing in Brookline being held next week.
On Wednesday, September 30, 2020, from 07:00 – 09:30 p.m. The Task Force to Reimagine Policing in Brookline and The Select Board Committee on Policing Reforms will hold a joint listening session. Members of the public are encouraged to attend the virtual session and provide input on where they believe the groups should be focusing their work.
Both groups will also provide an update on the work they have done since their efforts began over the summer.
Residents who choose to take part will have up to three minutes to provide feedback and insight to either of the committees, or both. To sign up in advance, residents may e-mail Devon Williams at dwilliams@brooklinema.gov.
The meeting will be held via Zoom, and can be accessed by visiting here.
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About the Groups
The Task Force to Reimagine Policing in Brookline is tasked with a variety of responsibilities centered around exploring and recommending a new, data-informed approach to public safety.
The Select Board Committee on Policing Reform has begun the process of reviewing and identifying police policies and procedures, training and education and the supervisory structure of the Brookline Police Department and determining what, if any improvements and updates would benefit the department and the community at large.
The Task Force and Committee on Policing Reform are led by Fernandez and Select Board Chair Bernard Greene, respectively, and include volunteer residents whose backgrounds and experience lend themselves to the charges of the individual groups.
Fire Chief and Emergency Management Director John Sullivan would like to offer residents tips about ensuring the safety of vulnerable populations ahead of an emergency, as part of Emergency Preparedness Month.
September has been declared by Gov. Charlie Baker to be Emergency Preparedness Month. Residents are encouraged to use resources provided by the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) to prepare themselves, their family, their property and their community for an emergency or natural disaster.
Vulnerable populations include children, seniors, pets and those living with disabilities or who may be immunocompromised. During an emergency or natural disaster, it is imperative that any emergency plan or response takes into account the specific needs of these groups.
In order to ensure preparedness and safety for all, the Town of Brookline encourages residents to follow tips provided by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Any senior taking medicine or using medical treatment on a daily basis should have enough to last at least one week during an emergency. They should also keep a copy of their prescription as well as dosage or treatment information.
Be sure to always have extra eyeglasses, hearing aids and hearing aid batteries, wheelchair batteries and oxygen in your home if you use them.
Include copies of important documents in your emergency supply kits, such as family records, wills, power of attorney documents, deeds, Social Security numbers, credit card and bank information and tax records.
If there are people who assist you on a daily basis, list who they are and how you will contact them in an emergency.
Inform your family, friends, neighbors and care providers of your emergency plan. Keep continuous contact with them whenever possible throughout an emergency.
Some local emergency management offices maintain registers of older people so they can be located and assisted quickly in a disaster. Contact your local emergency management agency to see if these services exist where you live.
Individuals with Disabilities
If you or someone you know is living with a disability, here are a few extra tips to keep in mind ahead of an emergency:
People living with disabilities should wear medical alert tags or bracelets to inform first responders of their disabilities. If you are dependent on dialysis or other life-sustaining treatment, know the location and availability of more than one facility.
Plan ahead for accessible transportation during an evacuation. Contact your local government’s emergency management agency so they can take note of your disabilities and assist you quickly during a sudden emergency.
If you use medical equipment in your home that requires electricity, talk to your doctor or health care provider about how you can prepare in case of a power outage.
Those who are hard of hearing or deaf should have a weather radio with text displays and a flashing alert. They should also have extra hearing-aid batteries and a pen and paper in case they need to communicate with someone who does not know sign language.
People who are blind or have low vision should ensure their emergency supplies include Braille labels or large print.
People with speech disabilities should keep their augmentative communications device or other assistive technologies on them. They should also prepare to communicate with laminated cards with phrases and/or pictogram if their equipment isn’t working.
Those with mobility disabilities should have a lightweight manual chair, cane or walker available to them during an emergency.
If you use a power wheelchair, show others how to operate it, have extra batteries readily available, keep a portable air pump for the tires and have an extra cushion with you if you use one to protect your skin or maintain balance.
Anyone with sensory disabilities (including autism spectrum disorder) should have handheld electronics available with spare charges and a small pop-up tent to decrease visual stimulation in a busy room.
Headphones should also be available to decrease auditory distractions for those living with sensory disabilities.
Children
Every member of your family should be prepared ahead of an emergency. Here are a few tips to prepare kids and assist them throughout an emergency:
Include your young children and teens in the planning process. Have them assist in building a kit, creating a plan and practicing a mock evacuation.
Help kids understand that they are safe and secure by talking, playing and doing other family activities during an emergency.
Teens who want to get involved can join or start a youth pr eparedness program such as the Youth Preparedness Council.
Teach kids about emergencies with fun games that get them involved in the discussion.
Try not to leave your pets behind as they may get lost, injured or worse. Additionally, pets should never be chained outdoors during an emergency.
Prior to an emergency, identify shelters along your evacuation route or consider an out-of-town friend or relative to host your pet. Locate a veterinarian or animal hospital in the area where you may be seeking temporary shelter in case your pet needs medical care.
Ensure all animals have some form of identification and up-to-date medical records.
Build an emergency kit for your pet that includes a three day supply of food and water, any medicine your pet may need and their collar and ID tags.
If you have large animals such as horses, cattle, sheep, goats or pigs on your property, evacuate the animals whenever possible. If evacuation isn’t possible, decide whether to move large animals to shelter or turn them outside.
For additional information regarding vulnerable populations and how they can prepare ahead of an emergency, please visit ready.gov.
Health Commissioner Dr. Swannie Jett announces that the emergency suspension of the town’s ban on single use plastic bags and polystyrene (styrofoam) containers will come to an end next month.
On Octeber 15, 2020, Brookline’s plastic bag and styrofoam bans will once again take effect.
Plastic bag bans were suspended statewide in March at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, and Brookline initially extended the suspension of its local ban through the end of September in order to support businesses recovering from the financial impacts of the pandemic. Once the ban resumes, businesses will again be required to utilize alternative packaging, and single use plastic bags and polystyrene containers will be prohibited.
Fire Chief and Emergency Management Director John Sullivan is pleased to announce that Cheryl Anne Snyder is the Town of Brookline’s new Emergency Management Coordinator.
In her new role, Snyder will coordinate all emergency management planning and activities for the departments that make up the Brookline Emergency Management Team. These departments include Fire, Police, Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Public Health, Public Works, Buildings, Schools and Recreation.
The Brookline Emergency Management Team helps coordinate local, state, federal, voluntary, and private resources during emergencies and disasters affecting the Town of Brookline. This is done by developing and maintaining response plans for all types of hazards, disasters and threats; training emergency personnel to protect the public; providing information for businesses and residents before, during and after emergencies; and assisting individuals, families and businesses prepare for, respond to and recover from any type of emergency.
“I am thrilled to be part of the Brookline Emergency Management Team and to play a direct role in the incredible work they do assisting all community members during emergency situations or natural disasters,” Snyder said. “This pandemic has shown us now more than ever the importance of having a plan in place, and how to best support residents and businesses when these incidents occur.”
Snyder started in the role, which is a new, full-time position for the town, on August 03, 2020. Prior to that, she worked for the Brookline Public Health Department as the Emergency Preparedness Coordinator and Medical Reserve Corps Coordinator from July 2015 to July 2020, and the Emergency Preparedness Buddies Coordinator from May 2014 to June 2015.
“This position was something we identified as a need for prior to the start of the COVID-19 pandemic and we believe Cheryl will be an excellent member of the Emergency Management Team,” Chief Sullivan said. “She played a pivotal role in the town’s COVID-19 response, and she’ll be vital in supporting the town’s emergency planning and response and comes into the role with a great understanding of the needs of our community. During uncertain times, having another person to turn to and help identify resources brings peace of mind and stability back to those affected.”
All residents and businesses are invited to register for the CodeRED notification system to receive updates about emergencies and other news as well. CodeRED notifications is available in five languages.
Sign-up is available either online or on a mobile device, allowing users to receive notifications about items like missing children or persons, criminal activity, fires, public health notices, utility outages, traffic conditions, various threats to people or the environment, and other incidents as deemed necessary by town public safety officials.
The alerts are sent to residents via phone call, text message, email and social media.
Additionally, residents and businesses also have the opportunity to opt in or out of non-emergency notifications. Non-emergency notifications will include other significant information such as COVID-19, election information as well as parking and transportation updates
The CodeRed notification system replaces the town’s previously existing Blackboard notification system. Anyone who has previously had an account on Blackboard should create a new account on CodeRed.
For more information on how to enroll online or on a mobile device, as well as how to create an account, visit the Town of Brookline specific CodeRED website here.
Town Administrator Mel Kleckner is pleased to announce that the Town of Brookline has appointed Erin Chute Gallentine as its new Commissioner of Public Works, making her the first woman to oversee the department in its The Select Board approved Gallentine’s appointment as the Town’s new Commissioner of Public Works at its Friday, Sept. 4 meeting. She began her new role on Wednesday, Sept. 9.
Gallentine has served as the Director of the Parks and Open Space Division of the Brookline DPW for approximately 20 years, and began her time in Brookline as the Conservation Administrator in 1998.
Gallentine replaces former Commissioner of Public Works Andy Pappastergion. He worked for the Town of Brookline’s DPW for over 50 years, serving as Commissioner for the last decade of his career. Pappastergion was instrumental in guiding the Brookline DPW to become one of the first to receive national accreditation from the American Public Works Association. He also represented the Town by serving on the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority’s Board of Directors.
“This is a rare opportunity for the town to both celebrate and reflect on the tremendous impact Andy had on the DPW during his tenure while looking ahead to the work Erin will do as his successor,” Town Administrator Kleckner said. “Erin has served the Town of Brookline tremendously well, and has overseen the successful completion of countless, large scale projects from start to finish over the course of her career. We’re confident she’s the right person to build on the work Andy’s done over the last 10 years.”
As the Director of the Town’s Parks and Open Space Division, Gallentine directed the division in managing all phases of design, development, maintenance and management of over 500 acres of public parks, playgrounds, town/school grounds, park/street trees, athletic fields, cemeteries, nature sanctuaries and open spaces. She oversaw professional development, performance and staffing of more than 52 employees, oversaw emergency response efforts for situations including snow and ice control and emergency planning, prepared the division budget, and oversaw the budgeting and completion of more than $30 million in construction projects, among other duties.
Public Works creates stronger, healthier, more resilient, and more connected communities. We provide foundational support for the community’s daily activities and have the ability to effect meaningful change,” Gallentine said. “Building the next generation of success for Brookline Public Works will require many of the same strategies I have used in my career and the careful alignment of department services with important municipal objectives such as diversity and inclusion, climate change and preparedness, community engagement, emergency response, regulatory compliance, employee health and safety, and fiscal responsibility.”
Prior to working in Brookline she served as an environmental management consultant at EnviroBusiness, Inc. She holds a master’s degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering from Tufts University’s College of Engineering and a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Spanish from Boston College.
Please join the Brookline community to show support for our teachers, educators, specialists, paras and all those who impact our schools and students.
The event will take place tomorrow, June 04, 2020, between the hours of 02:00 p.m. and 03:00 p.m. at Town Hall.
Any teachers, parents or students who would like to speak are welcome to do so. Please e-mail the Lincoln PTO at whlpto@gmail.com to be added to the list.
The National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) announced today the 2020 National Merit $2,500 Scholarship winners, and four Brookline students are included among the honorees. The students were chosen from a talent pool of more than 15,000 outstanding finalists in the 2020 National Merit Scholarship Program.
National Merit $2,500 Scholarship winners are the finalists in each state judged to have the strongest combination of accomplishments, skills, and potential for success in rigorous college studies. The number of winners named in each state is proportional to the state’s percentage of the nation’s graduating high school seniors.
Below are the winners from Brookline, MA:
Milena Kitterman Probable career field: Public Health Brookline High School, Brookline, MA
Ian Richardson Probable career field: Engineering Roxbury Latin School, West Roxbury, MA
Iris Yang Probable career field: Statistics Brookline High School, Brookline, MA
Ruiyuan Jing Probable career field: Journalism Salisbury School, Salisbury, CT
These scholars were selected by a committee of college admissions officers and high school counselors, who appraised a substantial amount of information submitted by both the finalists and their high schools: the academic record, including difficulty level of subjects studied and grades earned; scores from the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT); contributions and leadership in school and community activities; an essay written by the finalist; and a recommendation written by a high school official.
Today’s news is the second announcement of winners in the 2020 National Merit Scholarship Program. On April 22, 2020, more than 1,000 recipients of corporate-sponsored Merit Scholarship awards were named, and on June 03, 2020 and July 13, 2020, some 4,100 college-sponsored Merit Scholarship winners will be announced. By the conclusion of this year’s competition, about 7,600 academic champions will have won National Merit Scholarships worth more than $30 million.
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