[Eastontowncrier] Town Crier: Friday, October 14, 2022

[Easton Town Crier]

SPECIAL TOWN MEETING NOTICE

Monday, November 14: Special Town Meeting
The Special Town Meeting will be held on Monday, November 14, 2021 at 7:00 PM at the Oliver Ames High School Auditorium, 100 Lothrop Street. This meeting will focus on the routine but important town business conducted each fall at Special Town Meeting. The draft warrant for this Special Town Meeting is available online by clicking here<https://eastontownma.documents-on-demand.com/> and then selecting “Town Meeting Warrant Drafts.” Hard copies of the warrant are available at the Town Offices.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT NEWS AND NOTICES

COVID Booster Clinics
The Town of Easton is happy to announce this first of this Fall’s COVID booster clinics. We will be hosting a clinic Friday, October 14, 2022 from 2 PM to 6 PM at Frothingham Hall, 15 Barrows Street, Easton, MA.  We will be offering the updated Moderna Vaccine for adults 18 and older. You can register for this clinic by following this link. Please remember to wear short sleeves. https://home.color.com/vaccine/register/easton?calendar=7d77d909-3262-4156-b80f-fabc7a471f0b

Lincoln Street Sidewalk Construction
As part of the Town of Easton’s Complete Street program, the installation of an asphalt sidewalk is scheduled for October 11th, 2022 thru November 15th, 2022.  Motorists should expect delays and seek alternate routes during this time.  Police Details will be on scene to assist and direct traffic through and around the work zones.
This work involves the installation of the granite curbing, asphalt sidewalks, asphalt driveways and drainage structures.  All properties will be accessible during this time frame.
Thank you for your patience as we make improvements to the Town of Easton’s sidewalk network.  If you have any questions, please contact the Department of Public Works at (508) 230-0800 or gswan at easton.ma.us<mailto:gswan at easton.ma.us>.

Town of Easton Textile and Mattress Collection
Beginning November 1, 2022, MassDEP is expanding its current waste disposal bans to include mattresses and textiles.  The Town of Easton is pleased to announced new options for residents to dispose of textiles and mattresses.  The Town of Easton has partnered with Helpsy for free and easy curbside textile pickup and HandUp to provide a convenient and cost-effective way to recycle unwanted mattresses and box springs.  Please click here<https://www.easton.ma.us/newsdetail_T1_R989.php> to learn more.
Town of Easton Employment Opportunities
The Town of Easton has the following employment opportunities available:

  *   Principal Clerk in Collector/Treasurers Office – full time

  *   DPW – Plumber – full time
For more information, and full job postings, please visit Town of Easton Employment Opportunities<http://www.easton.ma.us/easton_residents/employment_opportunities.php>.

Easton Public Schools Employment Opportunities
The Easton Public Schools are hiring for various positions, including Crossing Guards. For more information, and to apply, please visit Easton Public Schools Employment Opportunities<https://www.easton.k12.ma.us/staff/employment_opportunities.php>.

Tufts Farm Tenancy - Request for Proposals (RFP) will be available on 10/17/22
The Town of Easton is seeking bids from for the tenancy and agricultural use of Tufts Farm, 108 Canton St, Easton MA. For full RFP, go to Easton.ma.us<https://www.easton.ma.us/businesses/requests_for_proposals_quotes_bids/index.php>, select businesses, request for proposals and bids. Public Bid opening will be on Monday, Nov. 21, 2022 at 12:00 pm. To request an application or to make an inquiry, please email Jennifer Carlino at jcarlino at easton.ma.us<mailto:jcarlino at easton.ma.us>.

November State Election – Voting Options
Easton voters are encouraged to plan ahead on how they would like to vote in the November 2022 State Election.  Information regarding the 3 voting options can be found at the following links:  Vote by Mail<http://www.easton.ma.us/votebymail>, Vote Early In Person<http://www.easton.ma.us/earlyvoting> or Vote on Election Day<http://www.easton.ma.us/knowbeforeyougo>.  To view all 3 voting options please view the November 2022 Elections Voter Options Guide<http://www.easton.ma.us/VoterOptionGuide.pdf>.

  *   Website:                            www.easton.ma.us/vote<http://www.easton.ma.us/vote>
  *   Voter Option Guide:       www.easton.ma.us/voteroptionguide.pdf<http://www.easton.ma.us/voteroptionguide.pdf>
  *   Email Questions to:         VotebyMail at easton.ma.us<mailto:VotebyMail at easton.ma.us>

ELECTION TYPE

DATE OF ELECTION

 ELECTION DAY
 LOCATION

 ELECTION DAY
 HOURS

DEADLINE TO REGISTER
TO VOTE<https://www.sec.state.ma.us/OVR/>

VOTE BY MAIL
APPLICATION
<https://cms2.revize.com/revize/eastonma/VoteByMail.pdf>DEADLINE

State Election

November 8th

OAHS

7 AM - 8 PM

October 29

Nov 1 - 5PM



Update on Vote by Mail Ballots
The Post Office picked up the 4,416 vote by mail ballots on Friday, October 14th for Easton voters who had requested a vote by mail ballot on or before October 5th.

Track Your Application and Ballot<http://www.trackmyballotma.com>
Voters who have applied for a vote by mail ballot may use this link to track the status of their application as well as their ballot status (mailed / received back). Please note that we anticipate a large volume of applications (there are over 17,000 voters in Easton) and request you allow at least 1 week before checking the status of your application and allow a minimum of 10 days to receive your ballot from the status date of mailing. Please DO NOT contact the Clerk's Office to check on your status until the recommended amount of time listed above has passed.

Returning Your Vote By Mail Ballot
Once you have received your ballot, please vote it promptly, place the ballot in the manila ballot envelope (required) and sign (required) affidavit on the manila ballot envelope.  Place the sealed ballot envelope in the postage paid white return envelope and return by U.S. mail or place it (with or without the white return envelope) in the secure ballot drop box at Town Offices at 136 Elm St.
Deadlines for ballots to be returned and counted
·      Ballots returned in the drop box must be received by 8PM on November 8th.
·      Ballots returned by mail must be postmarked by November 8th AND received by the Town Clerk by 5PM on November 12th.
Ballots can NOT be returned to the polling location on Election Day - they must be returned in the ballot drop box located at the Town Offices (136 Elm St).  Your returned ballot on Election Day will be processed and brought to the polls to be cast by the Town Clerk’s staff.

Hunting Season Reminder
Deer hunting (October 3 through December 31) and fall turkey (October 3 through November 26) hunting seasons are beginning soon. Hunting is allowed on Conservation Commission properties with all applicable licenses and in accordance with all laws. Please take all necessary precautions while enjoying conservation property such as wearing brightly colored hats and clothing if you are walking, hiking or biking on conservation properties. Pets should also be leashed at all times in accordance with the town’s leash law (Ch 104-7). Hunting is allowed from ½ hour before sunrise to ½ hour after sunset. Hunting is NOT allowed on Sundays. For more information on hunting, visit the MA Division of Fisheries and Wildlife website https://www.mass.gov/hunting-regulations.

Easton Municipal Building Committee, Police, Fire, and DPW Provide Update on Municipal Facilities Replacement Feasibility Planning
The Select Board received a comprehensive project update for the ongoing municipal facilities replacement (Police, Fire, and DPW) project on August 22nd. At that meeting, the project team announced a community engagement schedule for September and October with a variety of public events from building tours to traditional meetings and other opportunities for residents to learn more about the project. Those dates and any further updates regarding the events will be posted to the Municipal Building Committee webpage here<https://www.easton.ma.us/mbc>.  The webpage also includes a video of the August 22nd meeting presentation and video tours of the DPW facilities, Police Station, and Fire Stations.

Tax Work off 2022-2023 Applications Available!
The Town of Easton will once again be offering qualifying seniors and veterans the opportunity to participate in the Senior Tax Work off Program or Veteran Tax Work off Program. If you have participated in the past, remember that you must re-apply every year. New applicants will undergo CORI/SORI check as well as completion of new-hire paperwork. In compliance with the program, the earned credit will be applied directly to your real estate tax bill. If you plan on moving or selling your home during this tax work off cycle, please do not apply. No checks will be issued to participants.
The Senior/Veteran Tax Work off Program allows the Town of Easton the opportunity to utilize the knowledge and skills of its financially eligible senior or veteran residents in exchange for credit toward the residents’ property tax bill. The purpose of this program is to enhance municipal services and help to alleviate senior residents’ tax burdens. A qualified resident will be credited a maximum abatement of minimum wage x 125 hours. Eligibility Requirements: 1. Must be 60 by July 1, 2022 2. Must be the owner of record of the property and pay real estate taxes to the town of Easton. Only one resident of a property can participate in any given year. You must reside at the property. 3. Participants must also meet the total income guidelines for 2022-2023 Tax Work off Year established by 400% of the Federal Poverty Level: $54,360 per year for a single person household and $73,240 for a household of two. Total Gross Income = all earned income including social security, retirements, and all other sources of income.  See application for full requirements and supporting documents due with application.  Deadline to apply is Friday 10/14/22.  Applications are available at Frothingham Hall or on our Senior and Veteran Tax Work off Webpage<https://www.easton.ma.us/departments/council_on_aging/tax_work-off_seniors_and_veterans.php>.

CPA Projects Approved at Town Meeting Underway
At the May 2022 Annual Town Meeting Easton residents voted to invest nearly $2.4 million dollars of Community Preservation Act funds for eight projects that will protect historic resources, conserve public open space, provide active outdoor recreation opportunities, and support affordable housing. Information on each of the  projects can be found by clicking CPA 2022 Approved Projects<https://eastontownma.documents-on-demand.com/document/5b95eeb4-f718-ed11-a387-000c29a59557/CPA%20Approved%20Projects%202022>.

ARPA Update Re: Taxation Aid Committee Disbursements -
Doubling of Funding Commitment for Coming Year
The Town of Easton is pleased to announce the successful completion of the second round of property tax assistance by the Easton Taxation Aid Committee, which was funded by American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. Phase I of Easton’s ARPA Plan included $50,000 in FY22 funding for the Tax Aid Committee to promote housing security via direct financial assistance to fixed income homeowners suffering from financial hardship in the wake of the pandemic. The Committee reviewed submitted applications against eligibility guidelines, including income limits set at 80% of Area Median Income (AMI). After review, the Committee was able to assist 44 applicants by reducing their real estate tax bills by $1,136 each.

On November 12, 2019, Easton residents at Special Town Meeting voted to adopt M.G.L. Chapter 60 § 3D establishing an elderly and disabled taxation relief fund for the purpose of defraying the real estate taxes of elderly and disabled persons of low income. On January 27, 2020, the Select Board adopted a charge for the Taxation Aid Committee to implement and administer this fund.

The next round of tax aid will open in the Fall of 2022, and the Town’s ARPA commitment for the FY23 period will double to a total of $100,000. Forthcoming announcements will be made on our website, social media, and town newsletters when applications are available. Please visit the Taxation Aid Committee’s website<https://www.easton.ma.us/boards_and_committees/taxation_aid_committee.php> for more information, including eligibility guidelines.

To learn more about Easton’s ARPA plan, please click here<http://www.easton.ma.us/arpa>. The Town thanks the members of the Tax Aid Committee for their dedication to this work as well as the voters of Easton for their support of the 2019 Town Meeting article necessary to establish the Committee.

Temporary Trail Closure Notice
The Conservation Commission has been notified that a section of the trail and boardwalk at the Clifford Grant Management Area was accidentally constructed on private property. The owners have requested that this trail be closed to the public. This section of trail begins at the High School and extends approximately 2,000 feet west. (click here to view map<https://eastontownma.documents-on-demand.com/document/396039c4-7f28-ed11-a38b-000c29a59557/Clifford%20Grant%20Trail%20with%20Closure%2008302022>) We have posted the sections of the trail that should not be used and marked them with yellow caution tape. We understand that this is inconvenient, but please respect the landowner’s wishes and please discontinue use of the posted section of trail. Please be patient while we reroute the trails. Also, please remember that dogs should be leashed, all pet waste should be carried off the property and that new trails should not be cut.

Water Division Construction Update
The Water Division is pleased to share several construction photographs of our iron and manganese water treatment plant at Red Mill Road. The site clearing and earthworks has begun for the per-polyfluoroaIkyl (PFAS) water filter plants at Washington Street and Gary Lane.  We will continue to update our web page<https://www.easton.ma.us/departments/dpw/water_division/water_div_projects.php> on both of these projects, as our construction moves from earthwork to structural construction.

Water Restrictions Began May 1, 2022
Effective May 1, 2022 through November 1, 2022 Phase III Water Restrictions will be in place.  Even numbered properties will be restricted to Mondays between 5:00 AM to 8:00 AM. Odd numbered properties will be restricted to Tuesday 5:00 AM to 8:00 AM.  These restrictions are needed to comply with our water withdrawal permit and to ensure adequate supply during the construction of the PFAS and iron and manganese treatment facilities.  We ask residents to check and reduce the operation of their irrigation systems and follow the prescribe day and operational hours.  Residents will be notified if further restrictions are required.  For more information, please click here.<https://www.easton.ma.us/departments/dpw/water_division/index.php>
The "Discover Easton MA" App
Available to download free from the Apple or Google store.  Look for local restaurants, businesses, recreation, places and town government information.  If you are a business, "Claim your business" at claim.mycivicapps.com<https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fclaim.mycivicapps.com%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR0xerVP2v2IebaG918UOb3ZOnnanpO-WmAK6Q0RowxMgEFzPO8gsnRrx3M&h=AT0vvH3_wCqUwol3tAjg4YCbHXygHDDP7ZTUh7Q9LBO57gVoU2zrcy0Dc5t4x_J3NoBsodNbgW_5H4L8Vs9kI3u2aL7SqXFSGFiPCshm8mkgsh3zk8SjBERjBy4WtXkH3Sm6GOjoha5GgDxRbShojtI&__tn__=-UK-R&c%5b0%5d=AT3BmBd8xw6eWa4bRyelx7KAB1EL0yk86pMjTL6jL--tS9XoWryv_kUDXy25A--x6e7jXM5gSZMAyGoTCM8ehJiijo7SBhk61MFfCVMnL0JsaN7GCbEKq_-Usw0gCDNhkOb_BTYA_MhNkz06gpc0NqpkRYjxPC8o5kh9qGhuwK13DoHbjjPooW0memNfd6DRz1H9vA> You will be able to update your listing with your logo, photo, business hours, local deals and more for FREE.  If you don't see your business, email ListMyLocalBusiness at gmail.com<mailto:ListMyLocalBusiness at gmail.com> for more information. If you see your business but don't want it in the directory, also send an email to ListMyLocalBusiness at gmail.com<mailto:ListMyLocalBusiness at gmail.com>

This app is made possible through the work of the Old Colony Planning Council in cooperation with the Town of Easton, MA and grant funding from the MA Office of Business Development. Thank you to the #EastonOutside<https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/eastonoutside?__eep__=6&__cft__%5b0%5d=AZXwp1Mxx5aj87-0WCaqdhRbzJbC2RqouLPHzGWm9XWQ1l-trWo4fkatyFS-THgso4Xslq3qE4pZ3d_NSJPp_Bny7Dh0zhZBho1v6QpgEUs6p8wcSqI8GEwTEZXM_W73t6PJaLgnlkbL87oTan7p9z8vzMa9MM2n_BHwuXavBmtHEw&__tn__=*NK-R> team, the Easton Chamber of Commerce and Metro South Chamber of Commerce for their help and support in creating this app.

PFAS Water Filtration Station
The Easton Water Division has installed a self-service water filling station to provide water with levels of PFAS6 below 20 ng/L to those in sensitive subgroups (pregnant or nursing women, infants, and people diagnosed by their health care provider to have ​a compromised immune system) and other concerned residents. The filtration station is located on the side of the Water Division building at 417 Bay Road. The station can fill water containers up to 5 gallons. For more information on the water filtration station, please click here<https://www.easton.ma.us/departments/dpw/water_division/filtration_station.php>. For more information on PFAS, please click here<https://www.easton.ma.us/departments/dpw/water_division/pfas_information.php>.

Please Help Your Fellow Easton Citizens Who Need Tax Assistance
The Town of Easton and the Taxation Aid Committee are pleased to announce the creation of the Taxation Aid Fund.  This Fund will help low income senior and disabled citizens to continue to live in Easton by helping them differ the cost of their real estate taxes.  We are only able to help others by using donations from citizens like you.
To donate online, please visit https://epay.cityhallsystems.com. Choose Easton MA, and under bill type, select donation. To donate by mail, please send a check payable to the “Town of Easton” and write “Taxation Aid Committee” in the memo line to the address below:
Town of Easton
Treasurer’s Office
136 Elm Street
Easton, MA 02356
For more information, call the Treasurer at 508-230-0604 or click here<https://www.easton.ma.us/boards_and_committees/taxation_aid_committee.php>.

Council on Aging Newsletter
The Council on Aging is here for you! Please click here<https://cms2files.revize.com/eastonma/October%202022.pdf> to view our current newsletter.

Medicare Open Enrollment
The 2022 Medicare Open Enrollment period begins on October 15 and runs through December 7. During this annual period, changes can be made to your Medicare coverage for the upcoming year. Help is available to assist you in navigating this often confusing process. Our trained SHINE volunteer counselors offer free and confidential assistance with Medicare and related health insurance  programs. Our two SHINE volunteers work by appointments only. Appointments do book up quickly during open enrollment, so please call Frothingham Hall at 508 230-0690 as soon as possible. For more information on the SHINE program, visit https://www.mass.gov/health-insurance-counseling

Attention Veterans! The Reveille Newsletter - A Publication of Easton Veterans’ Services
https://mycommunityonline.com/organization/easton-veterans-services

Veterans Benefits
M.G.L. Chapter 115 provides a needs-based, means tested program of financial and medical assistance for qualifying veterans and their eligible dependents. Eligible applicants may receive financial assistance for food, shelter, clothing, housing supplies, and dental and medical care. These benefits are available for dependents of deceased veterans as well. To qualify as a single applicant your gross monthly income must be below $2,147 and your assets must be below $8,400. To qualify as a married couple your gross income must below $2,904 and your assets must be below $16,600. Assets refer to liquid assets and do not include your home, vehicle, etc. it does, however include any IRA, 401k, stocks, bonds, trusts. We are proud to offer access to these benefits that you have earned through you or your loved one’s service to our country. Please contact Cory Ahonen, Veterans’ Service Officer, at 774-273-1991 or by e-mail at cahonen at easton.ma.us<mailto:cahonen at easton.ma.us>, to find out what documentation is needed to complete your application.

Veterans Discretionary Fund
The Veterans Discretionary Fund is reserved for the purchase or reimbursement of expenses required to sustain daily living for any veteran who is a resident of Easton, MA.  If you would like to donate or if you need assistance from this fund please contact Cory Ahonen, Veterans’ Service Officer, at 774-273-1991 or by e-mail at cahonen at easton.ma.us<mailto:cahonen at easton.ma.us>.

Local Business Assistance
For business loans and alternative funding option From the US Chamber click here<https://www.uschamber.com/co/run/business-financing>. This guide outlines small business loans and alternative funding options. The US chamber has more than 30 grants, loans and programs. The U.S. Small Business Association<https://www.sba.gov/> offers these seven SBA loan programs which you may qualify for, as well.

CDC Federal Eviction Moratorium Ended Aug 26, 2021
The CDC Federal Eviction Moratorium ended on Thursday, August 26, 2021. However, the end of the moratorium does not mean you will be immediately evicted if you are behind on rent. Only a court can order someone to leave their home.
For information on community mediation, visit www.resolutionma.org<https://www.resolutionma.org/>.   You can also call 2-1-1 for referrals available in multiple languages.

Project Lifesaver: From the Bristol County Sheriff’s Department
Project Lifesaver is an innovative rapid response program designed specifically for families living with Alzheimer's Disease, Dementia, Down Syndrome, Autism, and related disorders.  By using the most reliable technology available and specially trained personnel, Project Lifesaver teams can quickly locate and return wandering adults and children to their families or caregivers.  Participants of the Project Lifesaver program wear a personalized one-ounce battery operated wristband that emits a tracking signal every second, 24 hours a day.  Each wristband has a unique radio frequency.
When someone in the program is reported missing, a search and rescue team responds to the area and starts searching with the mobile locator tracking system.  Search times have been reduced from hours and days to minutes.  Recovery times average less than 30 minutes.
Water Resistant for 24/7 Protection - Unique Digital ID Verification for each Client - Lightweight Ergonomic Design - FCC and Industry Canada Certified
To enroll or need further information, please call Officer Chris Vaz at the Bristol County Sheriff’s Department, (508) 995-6400 x3617.

R.U. OK?: From the Bristol County Sheriff’s Department
The R.U. OK free telephone calling service provides peace of mind for both the individual and their family.  The program provides reliable, daily phone assurance, and the security a person may need to maintain their independence.  The program is designed for Senior, Disabled Persons and Shut-Ins living in Bristol County.
The Bristol County Sheriff’s Department will make a telephone call to an individual’s home at approximately the same time each day.  If no one answers, the Sheriff’s Department will call back shortly.  If no one answers the second time, the Police Department will be called immediately to check on the individual’s status.
Enroll Today!   Phone: (508) 994-8932 or Toll Free: (888) 809-8932

Are you signed up with the CODE RED community notification program?
The program is offered through the Plymouth County Sheriff’s Department for residents and businesses in Plymouth and Bristol County. The service provides important alerts to residents and businesses for emergencies including weather related emergency information. https://www.pcsdma.org/codered.html
You can self-enroll cell phones, home phones, and emails via an app or citizens and business owners can now text the keyword BristolPlymouthAlerts to 99411 and enroll in the Bristol & Plymouth Emergency Public Notification system. Please note that capitalization is important and the keyword must be exact! Those without Internet access may call the Sheriff's Field Services Division (508-830-6200), Monday through Friday, (8:00 AM – 4:00 PM) to supply their information over the phone. Required information includes first and last name, street address (physical address, no P.O. boxes), city, state, zip code, and primary phone number, additional phone numbers can be entered as well. If you are providing a cell number, you must indicate the carrier and if you would like to receive text messages. All businesses should register, as well as all individuals who have unlisted phone numbers, who have changed their phone number or address within the past year, and those who use a cellular phone or VoIP phone as their primary number.

COMMUNITY NEWS

Massachusetts STEM Week in Easton - October 17-21, 2022
To celebrate Science, Technology, Engineering (Arts) and Mathematics, there are several fun activities hosted around town:
Block Party and Block Party Jr.
Wednesday, October 19, 4pm – 5pm |  Ames Free Library, 53 Main St, North Easton
Lego your boredom and come to the coolest block party in town! Drop-by the Ames Free Library's Queset House on Wednesday, October 19th from 4-5pm to construct with a variety of building materials. Find blocks for older children in the 1st Floor Presentation Commons and blocks for younger children in the 2nd Floor Conference Room. No registration is required for this free-form, self-led program. Children of all ages & families are welcome. Grown-ups must stay with children age 8 and under.
Anything is Possible Through STEM
Friday, October 21, 10am – 12pm | Children's Museum In Easton, 9 Sullivan Ave, North Easton
Join the Children’s Museum Easton to read Anything is Possible by Giulia Belloni and celebrate science, technology, engineering and mathematics with a creative STEM activity!
Oliver Ames Industrial Arts - Wood Shop
Thursday, October 20, 9am – 12pm | Oliver Ames High School
Visiting guests can expect to see some of the project based work of students in Tom Baldino’s class.  Attendees can participate in one of the hands-on demonstrations if they are interested.  The projects that will be presented reflect the student base, students ranging from grades 9-12 and from Sp. Ed to AP and Honors students. During the presentation, Tom will identify the STEM components, the applied academics students use and any cross curriculum ties associated with the projects and students’ academic classes. One particular project covers a broad STEM spectrum: Geometric Constructions, Simplified and Applied Trigonometry, Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Strength and Properties of Materials (Modulus of Elasticity) and tension and compression stresses. This project also has ties to local MA history and the contribution of women in technology.
Please contact Tom Baldino at tbaldino at easton.k12.ma.us<mailto:tbaldino at easton.k12.ma.us> for additional information or to register.

New Fitness Classes at Frothingham Hall
We are excited to announce some new exercise classes starting at Frothingham Hall.
Forever Young & Fit: This class is a well-rounded mix of strength training, stretching, balance, and cardio, with a mix of music genres to keep you moving. Weights and resistance bands can be used.  Every Wednesday at 1:00 PM, starting Wednesday, October 12
Core Strengthening: This class focuses on strengthening your core (abs and lower back), and also hip strengthening and balance. Bring a mat and resistance band, if you have them. Every Thursday at 1:00 PM, starting on Thursday, October 13
Pfilates: This program uses the principles of plyometrics and the control of Pilates to help strengthen your core and recover or enhance your pelvic floor muscles that can lead to incontinence. Simple, fun, and easy to follow!  Every Monday at 1:00 PM, starting Monday, October 17
Drums Alive:  Using rhythm as a source of inspiration, this class combines the benefits of  traditional fitness program with the brain-affected benefits of music. It fosters a healthy balance physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially.  Every Monday at 2:00 PM, starting Monday, October 17 (This class is limited to 10 people – Make sure to sign up in advance!)
Hatha Yoga: This is a restorative yoga class with focus on good body positioning, breathing, and clearing out cluttered minds. Bring your yoga mat, yoga strap, and block, if you have them. Every Thursday at 12:00 PM, starting on Thursday, October 23
For more information on any of our classes, please call Frothingham Hall at 508 230-0690.

Easton Out of the Darkness Walk at Borderland State Park
October 15, 2022 PLEASE JOIN THE WALK!! Feel free to bring your dog too! The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention leads the fight against suicide. Register here: https://www.afsp.org/easton Walk Location: Borderland State Park, North Easton, MA Parking: available at Oliver Ames High School and buses will be running from Oliver Ames to Borderland State Park from 8:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. Check-in/Registration: Saturday Oct. 15,2022 at 9:00 a.m. Walk begins at 10:00 a.m. and ends at 12 p.m. For more information, please contact Leanne Fleming at leannefleming1992 at gmail.com<mailto:leannefleming1992 at gmail.com>  or Nicole Reynolds at smitty2380 at gmail.com<mailto:smitty2380 at gmail.com>

Adult Men's Sunday Morning Pickup Basketball
Easton Recreation Adult Men’s Pickup Basketball registration is now open.  Games will be held every Sunday morning from 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM at Oliver Ames, beginning October 16 and ending November 20. Participants will play against other individuals of all different skill levels.  Players are asked to bring a Dark & White shirt (no gray).  Cost of program is $30. To Register click HERE<https://unipaygold.unibank.com/customerinfo.aspx> - type "Easton Recreation Department" to access registration links. Registration ends Thursday October 13.

North Easton Machine Annual Open House Tour
North Easton Machine Annual Open House Tour at 218 Elm Street in North Easton will be hosting their Annual Open House Tours on Wednesday, October 19, 2022 between 8 am and 3 pm.  Please join us for a guided tour and learn about modern manufacturing.  North Easton Machine has been a part of the community for nearly 60 years.  We manufacture and supply metal and plastic machined parts used by the robotics, medical device, and other high-tech industries. The event is free.  Reservations are encouraged.  Please call Jayme Fontes at 508-238-6219  for more information.

Easton Historical Society Annual Meeting
The annual meeting of the Easton Historical Society will be held on Sunday, October 30 from 2 PM to 4 PM at Queset House, 51 Main Street, North Easton.  All are welcome! (508) 238-7774
http://www.eastonmahistoricalsociety.org<http://www.eastonmahistoricalsociety.org/>

Friends of the Ames Free Library Fall Book Sale
The Friends of the Ames Free Library Fall Book Sale will be held on Saturday October 22 from 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM at Queset House, 51 Main Street, North Easton (behind the library – use the right side of the driveway). Most books will be half off our regular low prices, with collectable books priced as marked. Please note that we will not be accepting donations on the day of the book sale.

Gospel Concert
Gospel Concert at Unity Church of North Easton; Led by Linda Brown San Martin, Music Coordinator at Unity Church, with Guest Artists.  October 23, 2022, 3:00 PM at Unity Church, 13 Main Street, North Easton.  Limited Seating, Pre-Registration is Required using this link: https://www.unitychurchofnortheaston.org/ucne-events<https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.unitychurchofnortheaston.org%2Fso%2F29O89xNv8%2Fc%3Fw%3D621Iah1b6yadh1NRZTZ4I8aarL4gitQ62LxbbSOHoEE.eyJ1IjoiaHR0cHM6Ly93d3cudW5pdHljaHVyY2hvZm5vcnRoZWFzdG9uLm9yZy91Y25lLWV2ZW50cyIsInIiOiI1YmNmNjAxNy01OGQ4LTQ0ZjUtYmE0OS0xNTc2MTM2OWZhYmEiLCJtIjoibWFpbCIsImMiOiIwMDAwMDAwMC0wMDAwLTAwMDAtMDAwMC0wMDAwMDAwMDAwMDAifQ&data=05%7C01%7C%7Cb6806eb12283465ee96f08da6fe2c97f%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C637945317096932003%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=4HtWd5EEnDJTUBcAbxJLNLUZ6METOnG0YZTiADDPnk4%3D&reserved=0> or by calling the church at 508-238-6373 and leaving a message. Optional donations suggestion: Adults $15, Seniors $10, and Children are free.  Face Masks Recommended but not required. Parking behind the church and on the street. Handicapped Accessible. ALL ARE WELCOME.

Stonehill College Theatre Company: “She Kills Monsters”
Before Stranger Things…  before Dungeons & Dragons… ok, maybe not quite before, maybe slightly after from a chronological standpoint, but that's neither here nor there… there was…
She Kills Monsters by Qui Nguyen! Come join us on a harrowing adventure of monsters, swords, and some big time nerdiness. Sword Fights. Devils. Demons. And a lot of D&D cosplay.
Performances will take place Thursday, November 3 – Sunday, November 6. Thurs, Fri, Sat – 7:30pm and Sat, Sun – 2:00pm. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door. For online tickets and more information, go to: www.stonehill.edu/STC<http://www.stonehill.edu/STC>

Easton Community Calendar
The free September 2022 through August 2023 Easton Community Calendars sponsored by the North Easton Savings Bank, Morse Insurance Agency, and Scoreboard Enterprises are now available.  The calendar includes significant school dates, listing of local organizations, and extensive pertinent information about the community.  The calendars are now available in all Easton branches of the North Easton Savings Bank, Morse Insurance Agency, the Town Offices, Frothingham Hall, and the Ames Free Library.

Easton Cultural Council Seeks Funding Proposals
The Easton Cultural Council is pleased to announce its 2023 grant cycle is now open. Applications for community-oriented arts, humanities, and science programs will be available online at https://www.mass-culture.org/Easton from now to October 17, 2022.
The Easton Cultural Council strives to support public programs that promote education and diversity of the arts, humanities or sciences through exhibits, festivals, field trips, short-term artist residencies, school programs, workshops and lectures. Preference will be given to artists, organizations and events based in Easton. Grant seekers are limited to one application and must provide an accompanying description as to how their program will directly impact and benefit Easton residents. Council priorities and an application are available at https://www.mass-culture.org/Easton.
Comprised of volunteers, the ECC is part of a network of 329 Local Cultural Councils serving all 351 cities and towns in the Commonwealth. The LCC Program is the largest grassroots cultural funding network in the nation, supporting thousands of community-based projects every year. The state legislature provides an annual appropriation to the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency, which then allocates funds to each community.
More information about the program is available at https://www.mass-culture.org/Easton or contact Beth Goldman Galer, ECC co-chair, at eastonculturalcouncil at gmail.com<mailto:eastonculturalcouncil at gmail.com>.

Bocce Anyone?
We have an excellent Bocce court at Frothingham Hall waiting to be used.  If you have an interest in playing email Jeff Page jpage at easton.ma.us<mailto:jpage at easton.ma.us> with our Recreation Department

Friends of the Ames Free Library News
The Friends operate the Book Sale Room at Queset House, which is open whenever Queset House itself is open (from 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM Monday through Thursday, and 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM Friday and Saturday). We accept donations of gently used books in very good condition during our Saturday hours. Please visit this page<https://www.amesfreelibrary.org/friends-book-sale-room> for our donation guidelines. The Friends welcome new members and volunteers; you can find more information here<https://www.amesfreelibrary.org/friends-library>, where you can also download a copy of our quarterly newsletter.

Art Gallery/Co-op is Expanding Open Hours
Easton Shovel Town Cultural District is happy to announce that the Art Gallery/Co-op located at 50 Main Street (small cape house in the midst of Ames Shovelworks Project) is expanding open hours.
Open hours will now be Saturdays, from 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM AND Sundays, from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM.
The Co-op features Fine Art in Paintings and Photography. Plus jewelry, wood turned items (including kitchen ready bowls, platters) handmade baskets, cards and many gift items. New artists plus guest artists are added all the time. Check them out on Facebook: Easton Shovel Town Cultural District and Art Matters Easton MA.

Calling all volunteers!
The Meals on Wheels Nutrition Program is designed to enrich the quality of life for older adults by providing nutritionally sound and satisfying meals. They are currently in need more meal delivery volunteers. Volunteers are reimbursed for mileage. Come make a difference in the life of a senior citizen! Call Old Colony Elder Services at 508 584-1561 ext 530 to request a volunteer application.

Easton Commission on Disability
WHAT WE DO:

  *   Advocate for residents who experience an access or disability related problem in town
  *   Research local problems of people with disabilities
  *   Advise and assist town officials and employees in ensuring compliance with state and federal laws and regulations that affect people with disabilities
  *   Provide information, referrals, guidance, and technical assistance to individuals, public agencies, businesses and organizations in all matters pertaining to disability
  *   Review and make recommendations about policies, procedures, services, activities and facilities of departments, boards and agencies of the town as they affect people with disabilities
Questions or Concerns? Contact us at cod at easton.ma.us<mailto:cod at easton.ma.us> or visit our website<https://www.easton.ma.us/boards_and_committees/commission_on_disabilities/index.php>.

The Children’s Museum Easton
The Children's Museum Easton is a hands-on interactive children’s museum designed for children ages 1 to 7, founded in 1991 on the principle that play and hands-on learning is critically important to successful child development.
Fall Hours: Closed Monday, Tuesday-Friday 9:30 AM - 3:00 PM, Saturday & Sunday 12:30 PM - 4:00 PM
Last admission each day is 45 minutes prior to closing. Admission price is $10 each, (adults and children, 1 years and up).
Please visit our website at cmeaston.org<http://cmeaston.org/> to find out what’s happening at the Children's Museum this week!

Queset House at Ames Free Library Open
Easton's favorite meeting space for community groups, tutors, gamers and hobbyists is once again open! The Learning Commons @ Queset House at 51 Main Street (right side of the library driveway) is open from 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Monday through Thursday, as well as 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Friday and Saturday. Groups wanting to meet during the morning hours should contact the library at quesethouse at amesfreelibrary.org<mailto:quesethouse at amesfreelibrary.org> or call 508-238-2000 ext. 3. Masks and social distancing within the building required. Welcome back!

Low-and-no-cost Energy Efficiency Programs
Before you make any energy-saving updates to your home or apartment, take a look at the programs offered by Mass Save, which is open to all residents, and Self Help, a needs-based organization that assists with much more than fuel assistance. Depending on your eligibility, these state programs may cover a portion or all of the cost of the following:

  *   Replacement of your heating system
  *   Insulation of walls, attic, basement
  *   Air sealing drafty areas like windows and doors
  *   Installing energy-saving programmable thermostats
  *   Providing LED energy-saving light bulbs
  *   Installing water-saving faucets
  *   Replacement appliances such as refrigerators, window air conditioners, clothes washers, and dehumidifiers, if your current models are deemed inefficient
Both Mass Save (https://www.masssave.com/) and Self Help (https://selfhelpinc.org/) are open to Easton homeowners and renters (eligibility varies between programs).

Council on Aging’s Friendly Caller Program
The COA has developed a new program that we are really excited about called the Friendly Caller Program. The purpose of this program is to spread positivity and prevent social isolation. This will be especially important this holiday season! Those signed up will receive a weekly call from one of our volunteers, where you can share stories or experiences, chat about current events, or just make small talk. This is also a great way to get to know some fellow seniors in town. If you are interested in enrolling to receive calls, please call the COA at 508-230-0690.

Easton Food Pantry
Distributions:
Distributions are at the rear of the Fellowship Church, 604 Foundry Street, South Easton, on Mondays from 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM.  Please see the Food Pantry  website https://eastonfoodpantry.org and Facebook page for details and diagrams.  The Easton Food Pantry is here to serve residents in need.
1. Call in by 5:00 PM Sunday evenings at (781) 333-6284 and leave the following info on voicemail: name, address, phone #, and number of members in the family.  Speak slowly and clearly.
2. Clients must remain in their cars at all times.  Someone will come to the car to check you in and a volunteer will bring your bag/s to your trunk.  Please make certain it is clear.
3. Wear a mask if you are unvaccinated or unwell.
4.  Please do not line up prior to opening,
If you are newly in need of food and supplies, come see us on Mondays from 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM.  Please bring with you proof of Easton residency, such as a current utility bill, tax bill, etc. that has your name and address on it (drivers licenses are not considered proof of residency).  Stay in your car, and a volunteer will come to register you. For the safety of our clients and volunteers, the Pantry will not open during severely cold or stormy weather.  If you are in doubt, call ahead.
Donations:
If you would like to donate NON-PERISHABLE food or supplies, we ask that you please use the bins located at Roche Bros, Shaw's, or 50 Oliver St.  PLEASE NOTE THAT WE CANNOT ACCEPT ANY PERISHABLE ITEMS OR EXPIRED FOOD.  Monetary donations and local supermarket gift certificates are always greatly appreciated, and can be mailed to: Easton Food Pantry, P.O. Box 1481, Easton, MA 02334-1481
Due to space limitations, the Pantry is resuming food drives on a limited basis.  Please check the website for guidance and scheduling. https://eastonfoodpantry.org/food-donations
Other Business:
Please leave a message at (781) 333-6284 if you have questions or would like to volunteer.  Messages are checked frequently to ensure the mailbox is never full.
Thank you to the people of Easton for your support!

About the Town Crier
The Town Crier is typically sent on Fridays informing subscribers of local government news, notices and community events. To request an event be added to a future newsletter, please send an email to ehagg at easton.ma.us<mailto:ehagg at easton.ma.us> with the information in plain text as you wish it to appear. For consideration, please include event information, the name of the group/event, date, time, location, contact information and website if applicable. Please list all dates that you want to run the notice. The Town reserves the right to reject requests deemed not to be in the public interest or those promoting private benefits and is not responsible for typographical errors. Requests for inclusion must be received no later than Wednesday at 12:30 PM in order to be considered for inclusion in that Friday’s newsletter. Requests in the form of PDFs, JPEGs, press releases, etc. will not be accepted.


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