[Eastontowncrier] Town Crier: Friday, April 14, 2023

[Easton Town Crier]

LOCAL GOVERNMENT NEWS AND NOTICES

Town Offices Closed Monday, April 17
In observance of Patriots’ Day, the Town Offices will be closed on Monday, April 17 and will reopen for business at 8:30 AM on Tuesday, April 18. Waste Management pickup schedule will operate as normal.

Drug Take Back Day: Saturday, April 22, 2023 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
TURN IN YOUR USED OR EXPIRED MEDICATION FOR SAFE DISPOSAL at the Easton Police Department on Lothrop Street. The Easton Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will give the public an opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs. Bring your prescription medications for disposal to the Easton Police Station. Over-the-counter and pet medications will also be accepted.
Sharps (needles, syringes) are no longer accepted as part of the Drug Take Back Day. However, Easton residents are able to bring household sharps to the Easton Fire Department - Station 3 at 413 Bay Road Monday - Thursday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm and Friday 8:00 am - 12:00 pm. Sharps must be secured in capped, puncture resistant plastic containers, such as laundry detergent bottles or red sharps containers.
The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.

Easton Annual Roadside Cleanup: April 22, 2023
The Easton Department of Public Works is sponsoring the annual Community Roadside Cleanup on Saturday, April 22, 2023.  We are asking businesses, civic groups, youth groups and citizens to assist us in cleaning up litter along our roadways. The DPW will supply bags and personnel on April 22nd and during the following week to pick up bags of trash placed along the roadways by volunteers. If you or your group would like to volunteer in this community effort, please contact us at 508-230-0800. We hope you will be able to participate in this important community event.

Annual Household Hazard Waste Collection Day: Saturday, April 22, 2023
The Green Communities Committee wants to remind residents that new state rules require textiles be kept out of the trash<https://www.mass.gov/guides/textile-recovery>. Clothing, towels, shoes, and linens must now be processed for reuse or recycling through the proper channels and not thrown into your regular trash or recycling bins.

Have textiles to recycle? Easton residents with excess clothes, shoes, and home textiles can bring them to the 39th Annual Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day on Saturday, April 22, 2023 from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm at 130 Center Street, North Easton. For more details, visit the Easton DPW Water Division page<https://www.easton.ma.us/departments/dpw/water_division/index.php>.

Other options for the proper disposal and recycling of textiles include the following:
Easton collaborates with Helpsy<https://www.easton.ma.us/easton_residents/trash_pickup_and_recycling/index.php> to offer free home pickup of 3+ bags.
Textile drop-off bins are placed outside of Easton Public Schools, with proceeds benefiting the schools.
Clean and reusable textiles can be donated to your favorite local shelters, charities, or thrift shops. Please contact them first to check their requirements and needs.

Water Restrictions: May 1, 2023
Effective May 1, 2023 through November 1, 2023 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 prescribed day and operational hours. Residents will be notified if further restrictions are required.   Please visit the Easton Water Division web page for more information: https://www.easton.ma.us/departments/dpw/water_division/water_restriction.php

Depot Street Reconstruction Project
The Depot Street Reconstruction Project will continue for April and May of 2023.
Starting on Sunday, April 23rd until Friday, April 28th, the contractor will be paving Depot Street starting at 9:00 pm and ending at 6:00 am.  During this time Depot Street will be closed to thru traffic and will be detoured around the project area.  Please avoid this area during that time by using Foundry Street and Washington Street.  All residents will have access to their homes.  Emergency vehicles will be allowed through at all times.

Easton Shovel Town Cultural District Newsletter
Check out what's happening in the Shovel Town Cultural District!  Please click here<https://eastontownma.documents-on-demand.com/?l=416490143579ec11a363000c29a59557&d=5edb86bb25d3ed11a3b5000c29a59557> to view our April/May 2023 newsletter.  If you have any questions about the District, please reach out to Amy Rodrigues, Cultural District Liaison, arodrigues at easton.ma.us<mailto:arodrigues at easton.ma.us>.

April 14: Deadline to apply for Vote by Mail Ballot – 5PM
The Town Clerk’s Office must receive your vote by mail application by 5PM.  Applications can be returned in the silver tax collector’s drop box outside of the town offices or emailed to votebymail at easton.ma.us<mailto:votebymail at easton.ma.us>.  Application:   www.easton.ma.us/votebymail.pdf<http://www.easton.ma.us/votebymail.pdf>

Annual Town Election: April 22, 2023 -10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
The Annual Town Election for the Town of Easton will be held on Saturday, April 22, 2023 from 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM at Oliver Ames High School. For information click on voting on Election Day<https://cms2.revize.com/revize/eastonma/departments/town_clerk1/know_before_you_go.php> or Know Before You Go. <https://cms2.revize.com/revize/eastonma/KnowBeforeYouGo.pdf>  Use these links for additional Election Information<http://www.easton.ma.us/vote>, What’s my Precinct<https://www.easton.ma.us/whatsmyprecinct.pdf> or to view a Sample Ballot.<http://www.easton.ma.us/sampleballots>

RETURNING YOUR VOTE BY MAIL BALLOT:  We strongly recommend voters return their ballot as soon as possible and to utilize the secure ballot drop box rather than returning via USPS.

  *   Completing/Returning Ballot:     Click here<https://eastontownma.documents-on-demand.com/Document/df38877e-5c0d-eb11-a313-000c29a59557/Ballot%20return%20checklist.JPG> to see ballot return check list
                 *   Click here<https://eastontownma.documents-on-demand.com/Document/ded1c8a4-4c12-eb11-a315-000c29a59557/Vote%20By%20Mail%20Instructions.pdf> to see Instructions included with your mailing
  *   Track your Ballot:                           www.sec.state.ma.us/WhereDoIVoteMA/TrackMyBallot<http://www.sec.state.ma.us/WhereDoIVoteMA/TrackMyBallot>

Click here<https://eastontownma.documents-on-demand.com/Document/27ede9b9-5c0d-eb11-a313-000c29a59557/Track%20My%20Ballot%20Snip%20It%20-%20mailed%20out.pdf> to see visual on Track My Ballot Status

  *   Secured Drop Box:                         Outside the Town Offices at 136 Elm Street
Click here<https://eastontownma.documents-on-demand.com/Document/1747056e-5c0d-eb11-a313-000c29a59557/ballot%20box.jpg> to see a picture of the secured drop box

  *   Email Questions to:                       Votebymail at easton.ma.us<mailto:Votebymail at easton.ma.us>

Deadlines for ballots to be returned and counted
·      All ballots must be received at Town Offices by 4:00 PM on April 22nd
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.

Town of Easton Employment Opportunities
The Town of Easton has the following employment opportunities available:

  *   Seasonal Employment – Summer Programs
  *   Office Assistant Water Division – full time
  *   Plumbing & Gas Inspector - part time
  *   Shuttle Drivers – part time /per diem to work on an as needed basis
  *   DPW Plumber – full time
  *   DPW Building Automation Technician – 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>.
Unable to Afford Your Property Tax Bill?
Now through May 1, 2023, low income senior and disabled Easton residents have a second opportunity to apply for up to $1,400 in federal aid to pay their 2023 real estate taxes through the Easton Taxation Aid Committee. $28,000 in aid is still available for the 2023 tax year from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Even if you’ve already paid your 2023 real estate taxes, you are still eligible to apply!
See if you are eligible and apply by visiting:
https://www.easton.ma.us/boards_and_committees/taxation_aid_committee.php

Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Information
On Monday, February 27, 2023 the Town Administrator presented the Preliminary FY24 Budget to the Select Board. The presentation is available on the financial information page of the Town’s website<https://www.easton.ma.us/easton_residents/financial_information/fiscal_year_2024.php>. Also available online is the Preliminary FY24 Budget Memo.

Foundry Street and Norton Avenue Water Main Project
The Foundry Street and Norton Avenue water main replacement project will continue through the Spring of 2023.  Work involves replacing the existing water mains on Foundry Street from Old Foundry Street to Norton Avenue and on Norton Avenue from Foundry Street to Old Foundry Street.  Work will take place on Foundry Street from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm Monday through Friday weather permitting.  Two lanes of traffic will be maintained where possible but residents and motorist should be prepared for intermittent lane closures during working hours. The water main project is expected to take approximately 6 weeks.

Starting Monday, March 20, Norton Ave will be closed to through traffic during working hours, from Foundry St. to Old Foundry St between 7 am and 4 pm.  Residents will be able to access their homes at all times.  If you have any questions or concerns, you can reach the Easton Water Division at 508-230-0850 or the DPW at 508-230-0800.

Assessor’s Property Inspections
The Town of Easton is working together with Kyle Sullivan and Paul Sullivan , data collectors, to perform site inspections for building permits pulled between July 1, 2022 through December 31, 2022 within the Town of Easton. Kyle Sullivan is driving a Grey 2017 Dodge Charger with Massachusetts registration 6PB192 and Paul Sullivan is driving a White 2019 Ford Explorer with Massachusetts registration 3JCP15. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this project, please contact the Assessors’ Office at 508-230-0520.

The Town of Easton is also working with Renee Holloran to perform site inspections on all commercial and industrial properties for personal property within the Town of Easton. Renee is a data collector and is authorized by the Assessor’s Department to inspect all properties for the purpose of collecting data. Ms. Hollaran is driving a Blue 2022 Volkswagen Jetta with Massachusetts registration 3FFH33. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this project, please call 508-230-0520.

2023 Dog Licensing
The deadline to register your dog without late fees was February 28th.  Any dog license processed on or after March 1st will include a $5 late fee.  A current rabies certificate must be on file with the Town Clerk’s Office in order to license your dog. To update your rabies on file please email<mailto:townclerksoffice at easton.ma.us> a copy to townclerksoffice at easton.ma.us<mailto:townclerksoffice at easton.ma.us>.
You may license your dog in one of the following ways:

  *   License ONLINE<https://unipaygold.unibank.com/transactioninfo.aspx?TID=22364> (.50 bank convenience fee with electronic check) and your license and tags will be mailed directly to you ($1.00 postage & handling fee for each license issued).
  *   License in Person – You may stop by the Town Clerk’s Office during normal business hours. (Mondays 8:30 am – 7:30 pm, Tues/Wed/Thurs 8:30 am – 4:30 pm, Fri 8:30 am - 12:30 pm)
  *   License by Mail - Click here<http://www.easton.ma.us/departments/town_clerk1/dog_license.php> for additional information on how to license your dog by mail.   Licensing forms<https://eastontownma.documents-on-demand.com/Document/db96eb02-e4bf-e711-80bf-001fbc00ed85/Dog%20License%20Form.pdf> are ONLY required when registering your dog by mail.

Attention Easton Veterans and Surviving Spouses!
Could you use some additional help this year paying for Heating Fuel, Transportation, or Food Costs?  At the Annual Town Meeting in 2020, residents voted to adopt a local option under M.G.L. Chapter 60 Section 3F to establish a veterans’ assistance fund.  This fund, known as the SERVE Fund can provide eligible veterans or surviving spouses up to $1,400/year depending on fund availability at time of application.
SERVE stands for Supporting Emergency Relief for Veterans of Easton.  As part of the roll out of the SERVE fund, the Town is directing $100,000 of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding to immediately provide assistance to qualifying veterans and families.  This support comes in addition to $150,000 of ARPA funds directed towards the Taxation Aid Committee fund as part of the Town’s broader ongoing efforts to provide direct financial assistance to residents in need.
Eligibility criteria is 80% of the Area Median Income guidelines, Easton residency, and proof of veteran status is required.  For more information on this and many other ways the Easton Department of Health and Community Services supports our community, please visit the Town of Easton Health and Community Services webpage.  Applications are also available at Frothingham Hall, 15 Barrows Street.  If you would like to donate to this fund, please make checks payable to Town of Easton- SERVE Fund. Click here to apply!<https://cms2.revize.com/revize/eastonma/SERVE%20Fund%20Application.pdf>

Mattress Recycling
Beginning November 1, 2022, MassDEP is expanding its current waste disposal bans to include mattresses and box springs.  Landfills, transfer stations and waste-to-energy facilities across the Commonwealth will no longer accept mattress and box springs for disposal. Instead, they must be recycled. No municipal pick up of mattresses or box springs is provided by the Town of Easton.  Residents may contract directly with a private company for pick-up and recycling services. Below is the contact information for one such private company, HandUp, that offers mattress pickup services in Easton. The Town has no contractual or other relationship with HandUp or any other company, and neither endorses or warrants the services provided by any such company, but is providing contact information only as a courtesy to our residents. Residents can directly contact HandUp to make an appointment for the curbside pickup of a mattress and/or box spring by going directly to this website or by calling (774) 271-8744. Please note curbside pickup will occur one time per month. The charge for each mattress or box spring is $47.

Easton Municipal Building Committee, Police, Fire, and DPW Provide Update on Municipal Facilities Replacement Feasibility Planning
Updates will be posted to the Municipal Building Committee webpage here<https://www.easton.ma.us/mbc>.  The webpage also includes video tours of the DPW facilities, Police Station, and Fire Stations.

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>.

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.

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://mycommunityonline.com/organization/easton-council-on-aging> to view our current newsletter.

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.

Eviction Assistance
If you or someone you know is having trouble paying rent, financial assistance is available. Apply for rental assistance today. https://bit.ly/3zycJiR
For information on community mediation, visit www.resolutionma.org.<http://www.resolutionma.org>
For information on other legal guidance, please view the MA Lawyer of the Day Program information linked here: https://www.mass.gov/service-details/lawyer-for-the-day-programs

Blood Pressure Clinics
Did you know that the Town of Easton offers free blood pressure clinics every Wednesday?
Easton paramedics will be on hand at Frothingham Hall between 11:30 am - 12:30 pm and Parker Terrace Community Center between 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm. This is a free drop-in service – no appointments are required.

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

Free Paint!  BAMSI’s Community Paint Recycle Event: Wednesday, April 19
BAMSI believes that everyone deserves to live in a safe and well-maintained home. They have organized this  event to help community members improve their houses and promote a sense of pride and ownership in their neighborhoods.  The Community Paint Recycle Event will be held on Wednesday, April 19th between 10:00 am – 2:00 pm at 10 Christy’s Drive, Brockton. They have lots of free paint to give away!  First come/first serve – rain date 4/21.

Pickleball Lessons, Ages 18+
Instructional sessions  covering the rules and basics of Pickleball. May @ Unionville Courts. 181 Washington St  Easton, MA 02356 4wks in length. Registration 4/13/23 - 5/1/23. Start date  5/2/23. End date 5/23/23.  Various times both mornings and evenings. Max-4 per group Min-3 per group.  Cost of this program is $75 per person.  To register and pay for this course, click here<https://www.easton.ma.us/departments/recreation_department/community_programs.php>.

Caregiver & Me Fitness Program, Ages Adults
This 60-minute workout will help stretch and strengthen your body and leave you feeling ready to take on the day! Each class will work the whole body and feature cardio drills as well as core & breathing exercises. No equipment is required when attending class. Kids ages 6 weeks to 6 years are welcome to attend alongside their caregiver. Strollers are welcome as well as baby carriers as all exercises can be modified to fit your needs. Start your morning off with some Caregiver & Me movement!
Tuesday mornings 9:30 am - 10:30 am starting on Tuesday, May 2.  Frothingham Hall.  Each 6wks in length. To register and pay for this course, click here<https://www.easton.ma.us/departments/recreation_department/community_programs.php>. Cost of this program is $25
Easton Collaborative Theatre presents Music Man Jr.
Performances at Easton Middle School on Friday, April 28 at 7pm; Saturday, April 29 at 2pm and 7pm; and Sunday, April 30 at 2pm.
Tickets are $15 and may be purchased at https://www.eastontheatre.org/current-production
Music Man Jr is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI) All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. mtishows.com<http://mtishows.com> This program is supported in part by a grant from the Easton Cultural Council, a local agency, which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.

Health & Community Services Transportation News
HCS is happy to announce that we are excited to introduce a weekly, no sign-up-required, Wednesday shopping trip to Roche Bros. Plaza (Dollar Tree, Roche Bros., CVS, and more) and we will be stopping at areas in our community that may have limited transportation throughout the day to provide pick up and drop off. All rides are on a first-come, first-serve basis. Saturday, April 15 is going to be a no sign-up shopping trip to Walmart for the areas that may have limited transportation.
You can sign-up now for rides to voting on Saturday, April 22. Detailed schedule and information will be available here<https://www.easton.ma.us/departments/council_on_aging/index.php> on our website. If you have any questions or to sign up for rides, call us at (508) 230-0690<tel:(508)%20230-0690> ext 2.

The Stonehill Theatre Company presents Into The Woods
Director Derek Grant Martin brings one of Stephen Sondheim's most popular works to life, especially highlighting the fantastical elements of this magical world.
Showtimes:

  *   Thursday, April 20, 2023 | 7:30 p.m.
  *   Friday, April 21, 2023 | 7:30 p.m.
  *   Saturday, April 22, 2023 | 7:30 p.m.
  *   Sunday, April 23, 2023 | 2 p.m.
  *   Sunday, April 23, 2023 | 7:30 p.m.
For Tickets: https://www.showtix4u.com/event-details/72973

Technology 101
Need some help navigating your laptop, tablet, or smartphone? Look no further…we are here for you! On Wednesday, April 19, from noon to 2pm, students from the Volunteers for Seniors group will be at Frothingham Hall to assist you with all your technology gadgets and questions. Please register in advance for this free event by calling Frothingham Hall at 508 230-0690. And don’t forget to bring your devices!

Generations of Fun – Stories and Songs for All Ages!
Celebrate Spring, April School Vacation, and Community by joining in on this lively inter-generational performance presented by Davis Bates. Davis is a Parents Choice award winning singer and storyteller. This performance is sponsored by a grant from the Easton Cultural Council, a local agency supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council. It will be held at Frothingham Hall on Friday, April 21 at 1:00 pm. Please register in advance for this free event by calling Frothingham Hall at 508 230-0690.

Meet the Authors Event
We welcome a variety of authors to talk about what led them to become authors, what the inspirations for their books were, and what advice they have for those who want to write their own books. They will have their books available for signing as well. On hand will be mystery, children’s, and sports book authors. This event will take place at Frothingham Hall on Tuesday, May 8th from 10:00 am - 11:30 am. Please register in advance for this free event by calling Frothingham Hall at 508 230-0690.

Elder Law Presentation
Join Attorney Jane Sullivan at Frothingham Hall as she presents a seminar on all aspects of elder law. Jane will answer all your questions about estate planning, Medicare, living wills, health care proxies, powers of attorney, homestead protection, and wills and trusts. This event is sponsored by the Massachusetts Bar Association and the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys. Attorney Sullivan is a member of both of these organizations. This seminar will take place at Frothingham Hall on Wednesday, May 31 from 9:30 am -11:00 am. Please register in advance for this free event by calling Frothingham Hall at 508 230-0690.

Ballroom Dancing with Steve, Ages Adults
Join us as Steve teaches you the many moves of Ballroom Dancing!
Wednesday Nights 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm on April 19, May 3, May 17 and May 24 at Frothingham Hall.
Max – 20/Min-10. No Partner is Needed.  Cost of this program is $40  To register and pay for this program, click here<https://www.easton.ma.us/departments/recreation_department/community_programs.php>.

Mother's Day Pottery Making, Ages All
Come join South Shore Pottery Shop.  All we need is the hand or foot print.  We complete the details.  Cost includes custom work and kiln firing.  Ready for pickup one week from workshop.
A Treasured gift for moms, grandmothers, Godmothers, aunt and dear friends.  Workshop does not take the full three hours.  Saturday April 29th 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm. Frothingham Hall, 15 Barrows St, N Easton. Registration 3/20/23 - 4/22/23.  Cost of this program is $35.  To Register click HERE<https://unipaygold.unibank.com/customerinfo.aspx>
Father's Day Pottery Making, Ages All
Come join South Shore Pottery Shop.  All we need is the hand or foot print.  We complete the details.  Cost includes custom work and kiln firing.  Ready for pickup one week from workshop.
A Treasured gift for dads, grandfathers, Godfathers, uncles and dear friends.  Workshop does not take the full three hours.  Friday May 19th 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm. Frothingham Hall, 15 Barrows St, N Easton. Registration 4/17/23 - 5/12/23.   Cost of this program is $35

Family Music, Ages 3-5 w/ Parent or Guardian
Join Nicole Craven, owner and music therapist at Sing Explore Create, for an active music making class with your little one!  Take a moment to sing, dance and play instruments with your child in this engaging and interactive class.  Families will walk away with new play ideas and ways to incorporate music into your everyday lives.  Infant siblings are welcome to join as well.  Thursdays 10:00 am @ Frothingham Hall.  Registration 3/31/23 - 4/28/23.  Start date - 5/4/23. Max - 10 families. 6wks in length.  Cost of this program is $75.  To Register click HERE<https://unipaygold.unibank.com/customerinfo.aspx>

Kindergarten Lacrosse, Grade K
Come and learn how to play lacrosse!  Easton Tigers Youth Lacrosse is joining forces with the Eason Recreation Department for a 3-week clinic, The Little Lax Tigers.  This three-day clinic is open to both boys and girls in Kindergarten.  Girls and boys will be introduced to the sport of lacrosse and learn the basics.  Families will see firsthand why this is the fastest growing sport in the country!  No equipment necessary, however mouth guards are required.  Dates will be April 29th, May 6th and May 13th (May 20th Rain Date if necessary) from 10:00 am - 11:00 am at Keach Park 49 Chestnut St, N Easton, MA.
Registration 3/27/23 - 4/27/23. Start date - 4/29/23. 3 wks in length.  Cost of this program is $15.  To Register click HERE<https://unipaygold.unibank.com/customerinfo.aspx>

Mass Audubon Series, Ages Families
Join us for this three-part series and engage nature!  The Mass Audubon Society will guide us through 2-Animal Interaction sessions with snakes, birds of prey, as well as 1-guided sensory hike!
Animal Interaction #1 Saturday May 6 @ Queset Gardens 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm, Animal Interaction #2 Saturday May 13 @ Queset Gardens 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm, Sensory Hike - Saturday May 20 @ Borderland State Park 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm.
Registration 4/5/23 - 4/26/23.  Start date - 5/6/23 and End date - 5/20/23.   Max-25 per group/Min-5 per group.  Cost of this program is $40 per family

Community Yard Sale – May 6
The Covenant Congregational Church of Easton ( 204 Center St) will be hosting a community yard sale & craft sale on Saturday May 6 from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm. This will be a sizeable yard sale involving the entire church and outside crafters.
In addition:

-    We still have several spaces available to rent to OUTSIDE VENDORS, to be held in our parking lot. This is open to crafters, artists and also to those who just want to host their own “yard sale”.  A great opportunity if you are moving, or just want to “pretend” you’re moving and get your house cleaned out!

-    Each vendor space will be 2 parking spaces

-    $35.00 per space

-    First come first serve

-    This is a rain or shine event - so bring your tarps!

-    Cut off for renting a space is April 22nd. Fee must be received by this date
Please call Dianne Cidado (508-559-3248 ) or Melissa Gallinaro (508-241-2708)

Track & Field, Grades 6-8
Track & Field is open to all boys and girls in grades 6-8.  Practices will be held Monday and Wednesdays at Oliver Ames High School starting May 1 from 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm.  There will be two meets dates and location TBD as well as a State Meet Saturday June 10th for those who qualify.  Participants will learn about different running events from distance to sprinting and field events including high jump, hurdles, shot put and discus.  The athletes can choose what events they would like to compete in.  Registration 3/31/23 - 4/24/23.  Start date 5/1/23.  Cost of this program is $150

Field Hockey - Spring Skills Program, Grades K-8
Easton Recreation and Easton Youth Hockey Association are teaming up to bring even more youth field hockey to this great town.  Former OA Varsity Head Coach Sharon Lawrence along with other coaches will be leading a spring skills program for kids in grades K-8
NO EXPERIENCE REQUIRED!!!!!
Thursdays from 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm at Muscato Stadium Turf Field at Oliver Ames High School.
Activity will begin April 27th and ending June 15th.
Equipment Required:  Sticks (might have a few to borrow), Shin guards, Mouthguards & Goggles.
Cost of this program is $80. To register and pay for this program, click here<https://www.easton.ma.us/departments/recreation_department/community_programs.php>.

Town of Easton: Spring Program Brochure
Easton’s Office of Community Engagement & Programming has published our Spring Program Brochure! Programs listed will occur between 4/9/23 and 7/3/23. The brochure is subject to change and can be found on the Easton Programs website<https://cms2.revize.com/revize/eastonma/departments/recreation_department/community_programs.php>. For questions, email Programs at Easton.MA.US<mailto:Programs at Easton.MA.US>.  Engaged in Easton: Spring Program Brochure<https://issuu.com/joepittieaston/docs/spring_program_brochure_2023>

Caregivers Support Group
It can be hard to care for a loved one who is sick or failing, and sometimes it helps to talk to other who understand and may be going through the same thing. Frothingham Hall will be holding a Caregivers support group in 2023 on the 3rd Tuesday of every month from 11:00 am - noon. The group will be facilitated by Brockton VNA Hospice. Please call Frothingham Hall to register for these sessions. 508 230-0690.

Adult Women's Pickup Basketball
Easton's Adult Women’s Basketball registration is open to all women 18 years and older. These games will be social and competitive in nature. No practices, just play. Participants will play against other individuals of all skill levels. Games will be held every Tuesday night from 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm at Easton Middle School. The end date will be May 23rd. No activities during school vacations. Cost of this program is $10  To register and pay for this course, click here<https://www.easton.ma.us/departments/recreation_department/community_programs.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 5, founded in 1991 on the principle that play and hands-on learning is critically important to successful child development.
What’s happening at the Children's Museum in April:
This month we pay homage to Eric Carle, the creator of some of the most wonderfully illustrated and cleverly designed picture books for young children.
Hermit Crab Week: Vacation Week | April 17-21
Life is better under the sea! Ariel from Regal Princess visits on Monday from 10-11 and artist Judy Smith leads an activity on Tuesday from 10-12pm as we devote the entire week to crustaceans.
Caterpillar Week: April 25-28
This little guy has eaten his way into our hearts, so who better to close out the month? He’s also a nice harbinger to spring!
Hours: Tuesday-Friday 9:30 am - 3:00 pm, Saturday & Sunday 12:30 pm - 4:00 pm, Closed Monday

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 Co-op/Gallery is featuring Guest Artists
Art Co-op/Gallery located at 50 Main Street (small cape house in the midst of Ames Shovelworks Project) will be featuring Guest Artists in addition to their regular local artists that feature: Fine Art in Paintings and Photography. Plus jewelry, wood turned items (including kitchen ready bowls, platters) handmade baskets, cards and many gift items.
For the months of April and May, Mary Magrath will be the featured artist. Mary’s interest in nonverbal communication began when she was a child. Her father taught her Morse Code and her grandmother exposed her to American Sign Language. Years later, while working with senior citizens, Mary began learning Braille with the hope of teaching senior citizens who had low vision to read. She combined her love of photography and her interest with nonverbal communication by writing the captions of her pictures in level 1 Braille. Mary uses puff paint to write the Braille dots on the glass of the picture frames. Instead of using a guide plate, she places two pieces of thread stretched across the glass to form a Braille cell. Her artwork therefore becomes interactive and shows the complex, yet beautiful language of Braille.
Come to see Mary’s very unique art work now on display at the Art Co-op Gallery
Open hours are Saturdays, from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm AND Sundays, from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm.
Check them out on Facebook: Easton Shovel Town Cultural District and Art Matters Easton MA.

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>.

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).

Health & Community Service’s Friendly Caller Program
The HCS 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 Frothingham Hall 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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