[Eastontowncrier] Town Crier: Friday, March 24, 2023

[Easton Town Crier]

LOCAL GOVERNMENT NEWS AND NOTICES

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

  *   Assistant Town Clerk – 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>.
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.

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=3f5747e1aabeed11a3ae000c29a59557> to view our current 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>.

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.

Easton Residents and Businesses See Substantial Savings in Electricity: Town’s Community Choice Power Supply Program is a money-saver this winter.
The Town of Easton would like to remind residents of its Community Choice Power Supply Program. This Program is a municipal aggregation which enables local government to combine the purchasing power of its residents and businesses to provide them with an alternative to National Grid Basic Service. The standard aggregation rate is $0.10287/kWh, below the November 1, 2022 – April 30, 2023 National Grid Basic Service rate of $0. 33891/kWh. Assuming a conservative 600 kWh/month rate of consumption, Easton households in the aggregation program will be saving an average of $141.62 per month over the next six months for a cumulative saving on energy supply costs of $849.74 per household during National Grid current winter rate period of Nov 2022 – April 2023.

As residents had to opt out of this program, the vast majority are already benefiting from the lower rates provided. To verify your enrollment, please look at your National Grid bill under “Supply Services.”  If you are enrolled in our program you will see Dynegy Energy Services/Easton Community Choice Power Supply Program listed as your supplier and a rate of $0.10287/kWh for the standard option.

Easton consumers also have the opportunity to opt into a 100% renewable-energy product using National Wind Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs). Those rates are fixed at $0.10377/kWh through November 2023 which results in only a nominal increase over the standard electricity rates in the program and still yields a substantial savings compared to National Grid basic supply.

If you are not enrolled and wish to join, or would like to enroll in the 100% renewable-energy option, please visit colonialpowergroup.com/easton<http://www.colonialpowergroup.com/easton> or call Dynegy directly at (866) 220-5696 and ask to be enrolled. (If you are currently contracted with your own third-party supplier, you should confirm with them that you will not incur any early termination fees or penalties for switching.)

Please click here<https://www.easton.ma.us/newsdetail_T1_R1005.php> for more information from the Green Communities Committee.

April 12:  Voter Registration Deadline – Annual Town Election
Wednesday, April 12th is the deadline to register to vote for the upcoming Annual Town Election that will be held on Saturday, April 22nd from 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM.  Use these links to check to see if you are a registered voter and your voter status<https://www.sec.state.ma.us/VoterRegistrationSearch/MyVoterRegStatus.aspx> or to Register to vote online<https://www.sec.state.ma.us/OVR/>.

April 14 at 5PM – Deadline to Apply to have an Annual Town Election ballot mailed to you
APPLY EARLY to allow ample time for processing your application and for the postal services to deliver your ballot to you. Applications<https://www.easton.ma.us/VoteByMail.pdf> can be returned by Mail or placed in the silver tax collector’s drop box outside of the Town Offices (136 Elm St).

  *   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.trackmyballotma.com<http://www.trackmyballotma.com>
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

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.  Use these links for additional information on voting options:

  *   Website:                             www.easton.ma.us/vote<http://www.easton.ma.us/vote>

  *   Vote by Mail:                    www.easton.ma.us/votebymail<http://www.easton.ma.us/votebymail>
Application<http://www.easton.ma.us/votebymail.pdf> deadline 5PM 4/14

  *   Vote on Election Day:     www.easton.ma.us/knowbeforeyougo.pdf<http://www.easton.ma.us/knowbeforeyougo.pdf>

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://eastontownma.documents-on-demand.com/Document/3258387b-53c0-ea11-a302-000c29a59557/2020%20Vote%20by%20Mail%20application.pdf>DEADLINE

Annual Town Election

Sat, April 22, 2023

OAHS

10 AM - 4 PM

5PM - Wed, 4/12

5PM - Fri, 4/14


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.

AARP Tax Preparation
Frothingham Hall is hosting AARP tax preparation on Tuesdays and Thursdays until April 13.  The guidelines are for serving low-to-moderate income taxpayers who cannot afford to pay professional tax preparers.  We are now scheduling in-person appointments on a first-come, first-served basis. ONCE APPOINTMENT DATES/TIMES ARE FILLED, NO ADDITIONAL APPOINTMENTS WILL BE ADDED.

This year you will meet with a preparer for the duration of your appointment, not drop off (like last year). IRS rules prohibit the AARP tax preparers from processing returns that include certain items.  If your return contains any of these items, you may have to go to a paid preparer.  Lastly, as a reminder, these appointments are limited and do book up very quickly.  To book your appointment, please call 508 230-0690, Ext. 1

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>.

ARPA Update: 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.

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

Wheaton Farm Community Garden Work Day
Please join the Easton Agricultural Commission and Conservation Commission for a Community Garden Work Party on Saturday April 1, 2023 (rain date April 8, 2023) from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Wheaton Farm Community Garden, 499 Bay Rd, Easton MA, just south of the junction with Prospect Street. Needed repairs include replacing fence posts and fencing, removal of rocks, planting flowers etc. Please bring work gloves, water, snacks and/or your lunch, sturdy shoes and any tools (post hole diggers, shovel, rock bar, compact drill/driver, pliers, saws, 4’ level, bucket or wheelbarrow etc.). Please sign up here<https://docs.google.com/document/d/1M4APeF7rSdh0OIWz4enfZ2Vdd4mPOpjcJF84x7nIkxY/edit>. Participants will be entered into a drawing for three metal hoops that can be used for trellising plants. Anyone in need of volunteer hours is welcome!

Temple Chayai Shalom - Shoveltown 5K
Registration is now open for Temple Chayai Shalom Shoveltown 5K on Sunday, March 26, at 9:00 am. Runners love the flat course, our course support team, and fun post-race atmosphere. The race starts and finishes at Richardson Olmsted School. Register at http://www.TCS5k.com
Details:
- optional packet pick-up at Marathon Sports Mansfield, Saturday, March 25th 11:00 am – 2:00 pm.
- Runners guaranteed a tech t-shirt w/paid registration by Sunday, March 3, 2023.
- unique awards for top finishers.
- race-day refreshments and DJ entertainment.
- post-race party at Shovel Town Brewery

Health & Community Services Transportation News
Changes in transportation are starting to take shape! HCS is happy to announce that we have two new part-time drivers to aid us in rolling out some new and exciting transportation initiatives. We have been working on expanding our offerings and we are excited to introduce a new, no sign-up-required, Wednesday shopping trip to Roche Bros. Plaza (Dollar Tree, Roche Bros., CVS, and more) for our residents in need of transportation. We will soon be offering no sign-up-required weekend shopping trips as well. We will be stopping at areas in our community that may have limited transportation throughout the day to provide pick up and drop off. Detailed schedule and information will be available here on our website. If you have any questions about transportation call us at (508) 230-0690<tel:(508)%20230-0690> ext 2.

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

-    We have 24 spaces to rent to OUTSIDE VENDORS,  to be held in our parking lot. They are able to sell whatever they want, this is not limited to “garage sale” items

-    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

Meditation & Resiliency Class!
Join instructor Kelley Brophy at Frothingham Hall for this 5 week session on Monday, March 20 to Monday, April 24 at 1:00 pm. (No class on Patriots Day, April 17)
These sessions are designed to change your life in positive ways by learning proven techniques to reduce stress and increase positivity and relaxation. Meditation, laughter, science, story sharing, creativity, and friendship will flow through the weeks!  Call Frothingham Hall at 508 230-0690 to sign up.

Horsemanship & Riding Program, Ages 6-16
These three (1 hr. classes) are designed to help participants learn the Basics of Horsemanship and Riding.  Each class will include hands on grooming, tacking, leading, basic instruction in horse care as well as a brief ride (English Style) focusing on position and maneuvering the horse or pony at the walk.
Long pants, shoe or hoot with a hard sole and heel are required.
Victory Stables, Inc, 1176 West St,  Stoughton MA 02072 from 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm (promptly)
Registration 4/1/23 - 4/28/23 - Start date - 5/1/23. Max- 8 Min-4. 3 weeks in length. Cost of this program is $160

FREE SEMRECC Community Tour, Ages 50+
Residents of Easton are invited to join us as we take a tour of The Southeastern Massachusetts Regional Emergency Communication Center/99 District Headquarters in Foxboro. Bus transportation will be provided (Location and time of pickup TBD) https://www.semrecc.gov/
Date: Wednesday April 5, 2023 - Tour runs from 10:00 am - 11:00 am - Trip is limited to 14 people
Sign in person at Frothingham Hall or call 508-230-0690

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>.

Adult Men's Sunday Morning Pickup Basketball
Easton Recreation Adult Men's Basketball registration is open to all men 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 Sunday morning from 9:00 am - 11:00 am at Richardson-Olmsted School. Activity will end April 30th. No activities during school vacations.
Participants will play against other individuals of all different skill levels. Cost of this program is $50.  To register and pay for this course, 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>

Yoga for Golfers, Ages Adults
In this 5 week session, participants will learn a mind/body approach for golf fitness. Participants will learn injury prevention and breathing  awareness. Flexibility, strength, and balance will all improve.
Fridays 10:00 am - 10:45 am  April 5, April 19, May 3, May 17 and May 31 @ Frothingham Hall
Registration 3/8/23 - 4/1/23 - Start date - 4/5/23. 5 weeks in length.
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>.

Patriots Hall of Fame Field Trip, Ages All
Visit these two floors of New England Patriots Football. Check out interactive exhibits where you can kick a field goal, test your vertical leap and reaction time, and a math and science "Game Show" as well. They also have the six Lombardi Trophies and Superbowl rings on display. Tours are self-guided with staff throughout the museum to answer questions and assist with exhibits. Bus transportation can be provided (Location and time of pickup TBD) if needed.
https://www.patriotshalloffame.com/hall-of-fame/
Date:  Friday March 31, 2023  Tour runs from 10:30 am-12:30 pm  Registration 2/23/23 - 3/30/23   Cost of this program is $10
Register online or in-person at Frothingham hall. Only 14 seats available. **If transportation is not needed, tickets are $7 and can be purchased at the door or online.  To register and pay for this program, click here<https://www.easton.ma.us/departments/recreation_department/community_programs.php>.

Coed T-Ball, Ages 4-6
We are excited to announce that the 2023 T-Ball season is quickly approaching! This program is for all children born between May 1, 2017 and April 30, 2019. The Tee Ball season runs from late April to mid-June. Games start between 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm, Monday-Friday.  There are usually 1-2 games per week depending on the schedule.  The cost of this program is $85.00 per child. If you're interested in coaching, please email us at Programs at Easton.Ma.US<mailto:Programs at Easton.Ma.US>. No Experience needed. Registration 2/13/23 - 4/7/23 - Start date - 4/24/23. 6 weeks in length.  To register and pay for this program, click here<https://www.easton.ma.us/departments/recreation_department/community_programs.php>

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 5, April 19, May 3, May 17 and May 24 at Frothingham Hall
Registration 2/13/23 - 4/1/23. Start date - 4/5/23. Max- 20 Min-10. 5 weeks in length.
No Partner is Needed  Cost of this program is $50  To register and pay for this program, click here<https://www.easton.ma.us/departments/recreation_department/community_programs.php>.

Pfilates Class, Adults
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.
The new session will be on Thursdays, starting March 16th at 9:00 am at Frothingham Hall, 15 Barrows Street.  Six week sessions. Cost of this program is $40. Registration is required. Call Frothingham Hall at 508 230-0690 to sign up or click here<https://www.easton.ma.us/departments/recreation_department/community_programs.php>.
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 $35  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 this week:
Tuesdays - Roll up your sleeves, toss on a smock and get ready to create with us every Tuesday from 10:00 am to 10:45 am in Tuesday Studio. We'll use different mediums and processes to create art, some of which may be used in larger collaborative pieces that will hang at the Museum. How cool is that? Free with admission or with a CME membership.
Wednesdays - Join us for Exploring Music every Wednesday at 10:00 am to 10:45 am, Miss Kerry leads this drop-in that introduces toddlers to various styles of music through singing, rhythm-making and dramatic interpretation. Exploring Music is free with admission or with a CME membership.
Fridays - Join us every Friday from 10:00 am to 10:45 am for S.T.R.E.A.M. Ahead! We've added the "R" for reading! Incorporating literacy into programming, promotes critical thinking and creativity. Join us for story time followed by an inspiring activity. Free with admission or with a CME membership.
Hours: Tuesday-Friday 9:30 am - 3:00 pm, Saturday & Sunday 12:30 pm - 4:00 pm, Closed Monday
*Please check our Facebook page for snow closures. We follow the schedule of Easton Public schools.

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 Open Hours
Open hours 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>.

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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