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Rose D'Andrea created the program, Tot Bop, after she saw a need for programs for the younger children in Watertown and Oakville. Tot Bop has an average of 11 children, ages two and three, participating in each program.

According to Ms. D'Andrea, the group meets once a week and is sponsored by the Watertown Park and Recreation Department.
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Communications system public hearing
slated for March 9
WATERTOWN - The Watertown Town Council scheduled a public hearing for 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 9, at Swift Middle School, to discuss the appropriation of $1.9 million for partial replacement and upgrades to the town's communications system.

The project is planned to include a partial replacement of the current system, radio system infrastructure improvements, acquisition of mobile and portable radios and pagers, new control stations, and renovations, equipment and other work related to the project.
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Board of Education blames unfunded mandates
for budget woes
THOMASTON - The phrase "unfunded state mandates" was used often in the Board of Education budget presentation at the Board of Finance meeting Tuesday, February 23.

"We're doing the budget presentation a little differently this year," explained Superintendent Lynda Mitchell. "We will be showing the budget in two phases, regular education and special education."
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Reaction positive at public hearing
on Thomaston track
THOMASTON - At a public informational meeting by the Track Committee on Wednesday, February 24, Chairman Mike Burr presented plans for a track and field facility proposal at Nystrom Field.

The committee is currently putting a grant proposal together to build a full track and field facility, which will include a track, soccer field, tennis courts, shot put, javelin, pole vault and a steeple chase.
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Watertown tax collector announces retirement




	Mary DiSisto

WATERTOWN - Mary DiSisto, Watertown's tax collector, announced her retirement on Monday, March 1, effective July 6.

"Hopefully I've made a difference. I'm looking forward to the next step in my life," said Mrs. DiSisto.
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Watertown firefighter retires




	The Watertown Fire Department recognized Veteran Captain James DeMarest Sr. for having served 46 years as a volunteer fire fighter. Present at the ceremony were Town Manager Chuck Frigon (left), Town Council Chairman Ray Primini, Senator Robert Kane (R-32), Representative Sean Williams (R-68), Capt. DeMarest, Chief Larry Black and Deputy Chief David Hardt.

WATERTOWN - Approximately 100 people attended a recognition party for Veteran Captain James DeMarest Sr., who served as a volunteer firefighter for 46 years.

According to Fire Chief Larry Black, only 22 volunteers have reached 40 years of service.
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Watertown resident opens virtual diner
to benefit charity




	The Double D Diner waitress Earlene greets customers online at www.onelessmeal.org.

WATERTOWN - A virtual diner opened its doors in January to those wishing to donate and possibly hoping to lose some weight in the process. Their slogan: "Don't eat it, Donate it!"

The Double D Diner offers its customers a full menu, along with messages from a bleach-blond waitress with hot pink glasses known as Earlene. Earlene greets customers, who then order a meal, pay for the meal and leave the diner feeling full of good feelings, rather than food. Customers don't eat the food, they donate it.
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