[Eastontowncrier] Town Crier: Friday, September 26, 2022

[Easton Town Crier]

LOCAL GOVERNMENT NEWS AND NOTICES

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.

Town of Easton Employment Opportunities
The Town of Easton has the following employment opportunities available:
•     Easton Shovel Town Cultural District Liaison - part time,  up to 10 hours per week

  *   DPW – several full-time positions (Water Treatment Plant Operator, Plumber, Building Automation Technician, Senior Mechanic, Mechanic and Special Equipment Operator)
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>.

Board and Committee Volunteer Applications
Due to technical difficulties, we did not receive any online applications for board and committee volunteer appointments submitted between August 9th - September 9th.  If you submitted a volunteer application during this time, we kindly as that you reapply here<https://www.easton.ma.us/easton_residents/employment_volunteer_opportunities/index.php>.  We apologize for the inconvenience and thank you for your understanding.

Easton Tricentennial Committee
The 300-year anniversary of the Town of Easton is in 2025. The Select Board recently created the Easton Tricentennial Committee to lead the town in a yearlong celebration of Easton’s Tricentennial that commemorates Easton’s long history, engages all Easton residents, and celebrates Easton’s enduring, three-hundred-year tradition of community spirit.  More information about the committee can be found here<https://eastontownma.documents-on-demand.com/document/5643fddd-b319-ed11-a387-000c29a59557/Tricentennial%20Committee%20Charge>.  If you are interested in serving on the committee, please complete a Volunteer Information Form here<https://www.easton.ma.us/easton_residents/employment_volunteer_opportunities/index.php>.

Fire Prevention Week Open House
The Easton Fire Dept. is hosting its annual Open House to kick off Fire Prevention Week on Saturday, September 24 from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.  This year marks the 100th year of Fire Prevention.  The Open House is a FREE event for the community and a great opportunity to learn about fire safety, see some live demonstrations, take part in interactive activities and much more!  Pizza, refreshments and cookies will be served.  There will be great door prizes and raffle baskets (proceeds going to the Easton Food Pantry).  This will be a great free Family Fun Day!

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.

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


Received a postcard application?  The Secretary of Commonwealth, as part of the new VOTES ACT legislation, is required to mail ALL voters (registered by Sept 1st), who have not already applied for a vote by mail ballot, a postcard application – this should be mailed out around September 15th.  Applications can be returned by mail (postage is pre-paid on the post card application mailed to you) or placed in the silver tax collector’s drop box outside of the Town Offices (136 Elm St).  A signature is required in order to process your application.

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.

How to Opt-Out of Ground Spraying for Mosquitoes

Starting in early June, Bristol County Mosquito Control Project<https://www.mass.gov/orgs/bristol-county-mosquito-control-project> will begin ground spraying Easton neighborhoods against mosquitoes using Zenivex E4 RTU<https://pestweb.com/assets/files/productdocuments/wellmrk-zenivex-e4-rtu-mosquito-adulticide-sds-en-100013446.pdf>. If you would like to “opt out” of ground spraying for your property, request an exclusion at Mass.gov’s How to Request an Exclusion or Opt out from Wide Area Pesticide Applications<https://www.mass.gov/how-to/how-to-request-an-exclusion-or-opt-out-from-wide-area-pesticide-applications> page.

Those residents with lung conditions, young children, bee hives, and vegetable gardens are encouraged to learn more about Zenivex E4 RTU. Regardless of your decision, we recommend closing windows and turning off air conditioning during spraying and rinsing off outdoor gardens and play equipment once spraying is complete. For more information on the program and the proposed schedule, please visit Bristol County Mosquito Control Project<https://www.mass.gov/orgs/bristol-county-mosquito-control-project>.

Opt-out requests are good for the year, but take 14 days to process. You must label your property as directed, as well as complete the exclusion request to be considered for the ground spray exclusion.

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/September%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://www.ourseniorcenter.com/find/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.
In Massachusetts, if you have a pending application for emergency rental assistance, your eviction case can be paused. If you or someone you know is having trouble paying rent, financial assistance is available. Apply for rental assistance<https://bit.ly/3zycJiR> today.  For legal help, visit the COVID Eviction Legal Help Project<https://bit.ly/2Y9zUlT>.  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

Veteran’s Appreciation Day at Smith Farm
Smith Farm at Borderland is announcing our Veteran’s Appreciation Day at Smith Farm on September 17 from 2:00 PM -5:00 PM. Come join us and American Legion Post 7 for some good food, beer, music, cornhole, badminton, raffles, and share the camaraderie. Cash bar and food concessions are available through Shoveltown Brewery. Admission is $20, Veterans admitted free. To register early by Paypal, go to www.smithfarmheals.org/donate<http://www.smithfarmheals.org/donate>, or you may register the day of the event by cash or check. Entrance is at the corner of Bay and Allen roads. Gate will be open at 1:30 PM. Bring a chair and enjoy the music!

Volunteer Clean Up Day at Tufts Farm
The Conservation Commission will host a clean-up at Tufts Farm Saturday, September 24, 2022 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Anyone looking for some volunteer hours or interested to help in a local stewardship activity, please join the Conservation Commission in a clean-up of Tufts Farm in preparation of a farm tenant Request for Proposals. Tasks include cleanup of the inside of the workshop, collecting trash, brush removal, and landscaping activities. Please bring work gloves, water, snacks, hat, insect repellent/sun screen, and loppers/pruners if you have them. Masks are recommended if working inside the workshop. Heavy rain will cancel. Please register here https://tinyurl.com/2022TuftsCleanUp . If you have any questions please contact Jennifer Carlino, jcarlino at easton.ma.us<mailto:jcarlino at easton.ma.us>. Thank you!

CommUnity Yard Sale
Saturday, October 1, 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM, rain or shine.  Rent a 8 ft Table with 9 ft space, for $25.  It will be inside if it rains. Register to Rent a Table by clicking Yard Sale Button on https://www.UnityChurchOfNorthEaston.org  You can also call church office to register at 508-238-6373.

50th Anniversary of Borderland State Park
2022 Family Fun Day at Borderland State Park will celebrate the 50th anniversary of both Borderland State Park and The Friends of Borderland. Please join us on Saturday, October 8, 2022 (with a rain date of Sunday, October 9, 2022), from 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM.

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.

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 Flemming at leannefleming1992 at gmail.com<mailto:leannefleming1992 at gmail.com>  or Nicole Reynolds at smitty2380 at gmail.com<mailto:smitty2380 at gmail.com>

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<https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mass-culture.org%2FEaston&h=ATOJXhXUCv72y-t4GpJA0yhWhlhahtfC-IXOggHWABILfGxjI6ptFpvFhqKKKeVDQRLUsS-md5BBFlgZBaobz-FhzXQYduIl5QAQdGCPHNT89oeTZHN4woT7Bo6OiFrkZoWIKUtB2txMRpSpjhpoaVm4FQi7nsxF6H6nqw9ktAucnowujNWKmR9hJe50eHzsuMwsJzmNm1cx-LqSxCbK0cLAr_6Sel71Ed91SuFToYLNhw7sL6gw-D5GGJpfoPS7lG29o1pGEb6u3WDDroRqG1o> 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<https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mass-culture.org%2FEaston&h=ATOJXhXUCv72y-t4GpJA0yhWhlhahtfC-IXOggHWABILfGxjI6ptFpvFhqKKKeVDQRLUsS-md5BBFlgZBaobz-FhzXQYduIl5QAQdGCPHNT89oeTZHN4woT7Bo6OiFrkZoWIKUtB2txMRpSpjhpoaVm4FQi7nsxF6H6nqw9ktAucnowujNWKmR9hJe50eHzsuMwsJzmNm1cx-LqSxCbK0cLAr_6Sel71Ed91SuFToYLNhw7sL6gw-D5GGJpfoPS7lG29o1pGEb6u3WDDroRqG1o>.
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<https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mass-culture.org%2FEaston&h=ATOJXhXUCv72y-t4GpJA0yhWhlhahtfC-IXOggHWABILfGxjI6ptFpvFhqKKKeVDQRLUsS-md5BBFlgZBaobz-FhzXQYduIl5QAQdGCPHNT89oeTZHN4woT7Bo6OiFrkZoWIKUtB2txMRpSpjhpoaVm4FQi7nsxF6H6nqw9ktAucnowujNWKmR9hJe50eHzsuMwsJzmNm1cx-LqSxCbK0cLAr_6Sel71Ed91SuFToYLNhw7sL6gw-D5GGJpfoPS7lG29o1pGEb6u3WDDroRqG1o> or contact Beth Goldman Galer, ECC co-chair, at eastonculturalcouncil at gmail.com<mailto:eastonculturalcouncil at gmail.com>.

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 starting Sunday October 2,  open from 12 noon to 3 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.

Post 7 Video Speaker Series
American Legion Post 7 in coordination with Easton Access Television (ECAT) has filmed local programs Video Speaker Series for veterans. The blue video link is to the Wildhearts Horsemanship Program speaker Julie Lovely at the January 2022 General Meeting.  Click on the blue link below to view this video
https://www.mediafire.com/file/cofgfp2xjxoytdw/Legion22JanuaryMeeting_2.mp4/file
The next blue video link is to the Path to Healing Speaker Keri-Ann Wegner at the February 2022 Meeting.  Click the blue link below to view this video
https://www.mediafire.com/file/8xw5bo8l7z7dzcb/Legion22FebruaryMeetingBroadcast_1.mp4/file
The below link is to the Smith Farm Borderland Speaker Rich Eastman at the May 2022 Meeting. Click the blue link below to view this video  https://www.mediafire.com/file/1nejw6t4rdap2dl/LegionMayMeetingBroadcastwithFlyer.mp4/file
It may take 10 minutes or so for video to download onto your device
ECAT Local Television is on Verizon channel 22 and Comcast Channel 9.  Scheduled programming can be obtained and/or viewed online at the ECAT website www.eastoncat.org<http://www.eastoncat.org>

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.

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.

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.
NEW 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).  Visit our website at cmeaston.org<http://cmeaston.org/> or like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram and Twitter.

What’s happening at the Children's Museum this week:
MakerSpace: Enjoy making a craft alongside your little one every day in MakerSpace. Projects vary from day to day, as supplies last.
Tuesday, September 20 from 10-12pm Smooshy Leaves — color blending at its best. Get inspired by the colors that surround us with this super fun project!
Wednesday, September 21 from 10-12pm Puzzling Fall Trees — it’s no mystery that the colors red, orange and yellow play big roles this season.
Thursday, September 22 from 10-12pm Crunchy Apples — September is the perfect time for picking apples — and sampling the product.
Friday, September 23 from 10-12pm Caramel Apples — Let’s pretend to dip apples into caramel, then choose the perfect topping for your tasty treat.
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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