[Eastontowncrier] Town Crier: Friday, October 13, 2023
Easton Town Crier
eastontowncrier at list.easton.ma.us
Fri Oct 13 14:19:01 UTC 2023
SPECIAL TOWN NOTICES
SPECIAL TOWN MEETING: October 23, 7PM @ OAHS, 100 Lothrop St.
This Town Meeting will focus only on articles related to the Public Safety/Public Works Facilities Replacement Project. www.EastonPSW.com<http://www.EastonPSW.com>
Additional details about Town Meeting are available at www.easton.ma.us/TownMeeting<http://www.easton.ma.us/TownMeeting>
SPECIAL TOWN ELECTION: November 4, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
The Special Town Election for the Town of Easton will be held on Saturday, November 4, 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 5 PM 10/30
* 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<http://www.registertovotema.com/>
VOTE BY MAIL
APPLICATION<file:///C:/Users/SDugan/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/INetCache/Content.Outlook/YF1F4BRZ/easton.ma.us/votebymail.pdf>
DEADLINE
Special Town Election
Sat, Nov 4, 2023
OAHS
10 AM - 4 PM
Wed, 10/25
5PM - Mon, 10/30
Voter Registration Deadline for Special Town Election: Oct 25
Wednesday, October 25th is the deadline to register to vote for the upcoming Special Town Election that will be held on Saturday, November 4th 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/>.
Deadline to apply to have ballot mailed to you: Oct 30 at 5PM
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
* Secure Ballot 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 secure ballot drop box
LOCAL GOVERNMENT NEWS AND NOTICES
The Town of Easton has the following Employment Opportunities Available:
* Deputy Director of Health & Community Services – Financial and Veterans’ Affairs
* 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>.
Real Estate and Personal Property Bill Payments Due 11/01/2023
We encourage online bill payment via https://epay.cityhallsystems.com/selection. Payments can also be made by US mail, in person in the Collector’s Office, or can be placed in the drop box in front of the Town Offices at 136 Elm Street.. If paying via US mail, please direct to: Town of Easton, Collector’s Office, 136 Elm Street, Easton, MA 02356, or use the envelope and remittance coupon included with your paper bill. Please do not mail checks without a coupon to the lockbox address - this includes checks written from your bank’s online bill payment service.
Taxation Aid
Unable to afford your property tax bill? Now through November 17th, 2023, low-income senior and disabled Easton residents have an opportunity to apply for up to $1,400 in Federal aid to pay their 2024 real estate taxes through the Easton Taxation Aid Committee. $100,000 in aid is available for the 2024 tax year from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Even if you’ve already paid your 2024 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
Drug Take Back Day, October 28
Turn in your unneeded medication for safe disposal at the Easton Police Department on Lothrop Street on Saturday, October 28 from 10 am – 2 pm.
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.
COVID-19 Tests Available
Free COVID-19 tests are back! Households can receive 4 rapid tests through USPS. You can order here: COVIDtests.gov<http://covidtests.gov> and shipments will start October 2nd.
Free kits are also available at Town Hall with the Health Department, 136 Elm Street, Easton and Frothingham Hall, 15 Barrows Street, Easton. To pick the tests up, come during normal business hours.
Town Hall hours: Monday 8:30 am – 7:30 pm/ Tuesday to Thursday 8:30 am – 4:30 pm / Friday 8:30 am -12:30 pm. Frothingham Hall hours: Monday to Friday 8:30 am – 4:00 pm.
Draft Hazard Mitigation Plan Released for Public Comment
Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan<https://www.easton.ma.us/departments/planning_and_community_development/hazard_mitigation_planv2.php> available for review and comments. Easton residents, business owners and stakeholders are asked to review Easton’s draft Multi-jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan and submit comments to: Stephanie Danielson, Director of Planning & Economic Development sdanielson at easton.ma.us<mailto:sdanielson at easton.ma.us>. The plan is available online.<https://eastontownma.documents-on-demand.com/document/6b74d1ea-b962-ee11-a3d7-000c29a59557/Hazard%20Mitigation%20Plan%20-%20Web> Comments are due by November 3, 2023.
2023 Hunting Season Reminder
Deer hunting (now through December 30) and fall turkey (now through November 25) hunting seasons have begun. Hunting is allowed on Conservation Commission properties with all applicable licenses and in accordance with all laws. Please take all necessary precautions while enjoying conservation property such as wearing brightly colored hats and clothing if you are walking, hiking or biking on conservation properties. Pets should also be leashed at all times in accordance with the town’s leash law (Ch 104-7). Hunting is allowed from ½ hour before sunrise to ½ hour after sunset. Hunting is NOT allowed on Sundays. For more information on hunting, the MA Division of Fisheries and Wildlife<https://www.mass.gov/hunting-regulations>.
Easton Shovel Town Cultural District Newsletter
Be sure to join in on all the fun music, art and cultural activities happening in the Easton Shovel Town Cultural District this fall! Please click here to view our September/October 2023 newsletter.<https://eastontownma.documents-on-demand.com/?l=416490143579ec11a363000c29a59557&d=3a319d0dba4dee11a3d0000c29a59557> 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>.
Easton’s Tricentennial
The Easton Tricentennial Committee is pleased to announce that planning and organizing efforts are well underway for Easton’s 300th anniversary in 2025. The celebration of Easton’s 300th Anniversary will last all of 2025 beginning with a First Day event in January and culminating with a Gala in December of 2025.
This yearlong celebration will of course need the community’s support so please visit www.Easton300.org<http://www.Easton300.org> to learn about sponsorship and volunteer opportunities. The website also provides information about the Easton 300 Logo Contest that is currently underway as well as the keystone events to be held in 2023.
Easton Public Schools, Town of Easton Begin Partnership with INTERFACE Referral Service:
Providing Outpatient Mental Health Referrals for Community Members
The Easton Public Schools and Town of Easton have partnered with William James College to bring INTERFACE, a free outpatient mental health referral service program, to students in the district and all Easton residents.
Any Easton resident may contact the Helpline and does not have to be referred to access the service. The Helpline operates from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday. To reach the Helpline, call 888-244-6843.
Importantly, the Helpline is not an emergency service. If you, or the person you are seeking to assist, requires immediate confidential support and crisis counseling, please dial 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which is available 24/7 or call 911. To learn more about the William James INTERFACE Referral Service, click here<https://interface.williamjames.edu/>.
FY24 Real Estate Tax Exemptions
The Town of Easton offers many tax exemptions designed to reduce the property tax burden for elderly or disabled veterans. These exemptions include Elderly Clause 41D, Clause 22 & Disabled Veterans and Clause 22D Surviving Spouse, Clause 37 Blind, Community Preservation. You can find the applications and instructions on the Assessors Webpage<https://www.easton.ma.us/departments/assessors/index.php>. Scroll down the dark blue box to the end, and select Real Estate Exemptions. You will see a drop down menu listing all Real Estate applications. If you have any questions, please contact the Assessors’ Office at 508-230-0520
Notice: Oliver Ames High School Court Reconstruction
The reconstruction of the exterior tennis and basketball courts at the Oliver Ames High School has begun and is expected to be completed by November 2023. Use of the existing athletic courts and a portion of the parking lot in the immediate vicinity of the project will be unavailable during construction. Thank you for your patience as we make improvements to the athletic courts at the Oliver Ames High School. If you have any questions, please contact the Department of Public Works at (508) 230-0800 or MGrosschedl at easton.ma.us<mailto:MGrosschedl at easton.ma.us>.
Water Division: 2022 Consumer Confidence Report
The Easton Water Division is pleased to announce the availability of the 2022 consumer confidence report (CCR) which is available on the Water Divisions webpage<https://cms2.revize.com/revize/eastonma/departments/dpw/water_division/docs/Reports/2022ConsumerCofidenceReport.pdf>. Individuals may request a hard copy by calling the Easton Water Division 508-230-0850.
Water Restrictions: Began 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 and 8:00 am. Odd numbered properties will be restricted to Tuesdays between 5:00 am and 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<https://www.easton.ma.us/departments/dpw/water_division/water_restriction.php> for more information.
Assessor’s Property Inspections
The Town of Easton is working together 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. Holloran is driving a Blue 2022 Volkswagen Jetta with Massachusetts registration 3FFH33. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this project, please call the Assessor’s Office at 508-230-0520.
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 mattresses or 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<https://www.handupmattress.com/contact-us> or by calling (774) 271-8744. Please note curbside pickup will occur once per month. The charge for each mattress or box spring is $47.
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.
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>.
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.
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.
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
Friends of the Ames Free Library Fall Book Sale
The Friends of the Ames Free Library Fall Book Sale will be held on October 21st from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm at Queset House, 51 Main Street, North Easton (behind the library – use the right side of the driveway). Most books will be half off our regular low prices, with collectable books priced as marked. Dealers are welcome from 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm.
North Easton Machine Company, Inc., Facility Tours
North Easton Machine Company, located at 218 Elm Street in North Easton, will be hosting tours of their manufacturing facility in honor of Manufacturing Month this October. Tours are open to the public and we encourage our neighbors and friends to visit with us on Wednesday, October 18th 10 am – 3 pm. Reservations are required. Please call 508-238-6219 or email pmartel at northeastonmachine.com<mailto:pmartel at northeastonmachine.com> to register. We look forward to seeing you!
OAMB TIGERAMA
Oliver Ames Marching Band (OAMB) will be hosting TIGERAMA at Oliver Ames High School on Saturday, October 21, 2023 from 5:30 – 9:00 PM.
* This is an official NESBA (New England Scholastic Band Association) marching band competition
* Featuring OAMB and marching bands from multiple other high schools
* Also multiple Food Trucks for your culinary enjoyment!!
* Access to purchase food from the food trucks is free - each truck will charge their usual pricing for food
* Admission to watch the bands is $15 for adults/$10 for students (CASH only)
* Tickets are available only at the gate (no advanced sales)
* There will also be a Raffle and OAMB merchandise available for purchase
“Come for the food, stay for the bands!”
Help Wanted: Saturday Circulation Technician, Ames Free Library
Be part of a lively, creative, award-winning library staff! The Ames Free Library in North Easton seeks an energetic, reliable individual with a genuine enjoyment for working in a public library, with excellent customer service and communication skills. The main roles of this position include checking materials in and out, renewing items, registering new patrons, placing holds, processing interlibrary loans, and making museum pass reservations. Must have comfort and familiarity with computers. This is a part time position for one or two Saturday rotations. No benefits. Find out more: https://mblc.state.ma.us/jobs/find_jobs/rss.php?job_id=21642
Scholar Series at Stonehill College
ALL in need of some intellectual stimulation are welcome! Join us for a monthly hour-long Thursday series of talks and discussions based on recent publications authored by Stonehill professors.
2023 schedule:
* October 26 @ 3:30 p.m. Richard Capobianco on Martin Heidegger.
* November 30 @ 3:30 p.m. John Rodrigue on 'Freedom's Crescent: The Civil War and the Destruction of Slavery in the Lower Mississippi Valley.'
* December 14 @ 3:30 p.m. Mary Joan Leith on 'The Virgin Mary: A Very Short Introduction.'
Free and open to all!
All talks will be held at the MacPháidín Library, 1st Floor, South Wing, Stonehill College, 320 Washington Street, Easton. Free parking in the Welcome Center Lot. Event information at https://calendar.stonehill.edu/
7-9 yrs Floor Hockey League
Fun and team-oriented Floor Hockey League. Weekly games and all equipment provided. Play is 3v3 w/ a goalie. 6 weeks in length 11/7-12/19 w/ a break Thanksgiving week. T-Shirt will be provided. Gamed will be run by volunteer coaches, if interested in coaching please email programs at easton.ma.us<mailto:programs at easton.ma.us> Games will be played in the Main Hall at Frothingham Hall – 15 Barrows St. Easton, MA 7- year olds will play 1x a week on either Tuesdays, Wednesday or Thursdays at either 430-530 or 545-645. Cost of this program is $80. To register and pay for this course, click here<https://www.easton.ma.us/departments/recreation_department/community_programs.php>.
Pumpkin Decorating Program
Come down for a Pumpkin Decorating Program! All paint/decorating/creative supplies will be provided. This is a no-carving program. Welcome to all ages! Perfect for families and friends. Program will take place at Frothingham Hall 15 Barrows St. Easton MA. Saturday October 21st with two sessions. Session A will be 11:00 am-1:00 pm and Session B will be 1:15 pm - 3:15 pm. Cost of program is $5 per pumpkin, parents/guardians are welcome to watch and guide at no charge …. Or….decorate your own! To register and pay for this course, click here<https://www.easton.ma.us/departments/recreation_department/community_programs.php>.
Sheep Pasture Spooktacular!
Saturday, October 28, 2023 from 2:00 - 5:30 PM
$20 per family, for up to 5 people, Additional people at $5 per person
The Sheep Pasture Spooktacular returns for more fall fun for children and their families! Feel free to wear your costumes and join us for this year’s activities, which will include nature hikes, face painting, a Skulls n’ Stuff station, pumpkin decorating, photo booth, family yard games, booth trick or treating, food and more! The Spooktacular takes place "cloud or shine;" in the event that the Spooktacular is canceled due to rain or other concerns, information will be posted on the NRT homepage and on the NRT's Sheep Pasture Facebook page. There is no rain date for the event.
Admission, food, and any sales are cash only on the day of the event. Food items, pumpkins, or other goods may be sold at the event for an additional fee. Admission price includes activities, hikes, and presentations, as well as fun treats that children can get from visiting each booth! People of all ages are welcome to attend.
The Spooktacular proceeds directly benefit the annual operations of the NRT of Easton, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that allows free community access to Sheep Pasture throughout the year. Donations to NRT will be gratefully accepted at any of the activity booths. We appreciate your support of NRT for the community!
No pets of any kind are allowed at Spooktacular. For everyone's comfort, please leave pets at home and do not leave them in vehicles in the parking area. Working service animals trained to complete specific tasks for their handlers as defined by the ADA are always welcome.
For more information regarding The Sheep Pasture Spooktacular, please visit us at www.nrtofeaston.org<http://www.nrtofeaston.org>!
Easton Historical Society Open House
The Easton Historical Society and Museum will hold a public open house on October 22, 2023 from 12:30 pm to 4:30 pm. The topic will be Growing Up in Easton in the 50's, 60's and 70's. Refreshments will be served.
Friendly Bocce at Frothingham
Come down to Frothingham Hall to play a casual game of Bocce! House of Possibilities (HOPe) will be participating too. It will be Thursdays from 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm, ending around Thanksgiving; weather dependent. Call/ stop by to sign up (508) 230-0690!
Engaged in Easton: Fall Programs Brochure
Easton’s Office of Community Engagement & Programming has published our Summer Programs Brochure! Programs listed will occur between 9/4/23 and 11/27/23. 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: Fall Programs Brochure<https://issuu.com/eastonprograms/docs/fall_programs_brochure_2023>
Adult Women’s Pickup Basketball, Ages 18+
Easton's Women’s Pickup Basketball registration is open to all and women 18 years and older, non-residents welcome. These games will be social and competitive in nature. No practices, just play. Participants will play against other individuals of all skill levels. Players should bring a dark and white shirt (no gray). Games will be held every Tuesday night from 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm at Oliver Ames Nixon Gym, 100 Lothrop St, North Easton, MA.
Start date 9/12/23. Prorated cost of this program is $40 for entire season. Rolling registration will be accepted. To register and pay for this course, click here<https://www.easton.ma.us/departments/recreation_department/community_programs.php>.
Session 2 Coed Pickup Soccer
Ages: 18+. Easton's Coed Pickup Soccer registration is open to all men and 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. Players should bring a dark and white shirt (no gray). Games will be held every Sunday morning from 9:00 am - 10:30 am at Keach Park, 49 Chestnut St, North Easton, MA. Start date 9/17/23. Cost of this program is $45. Rolling registration will be accepted. Daily Registration also available. To register and pay for this course, click here<https://www.easton.ma.us/departments/recreation_department/community_programs.php>.
Green Communities Committee - Three easy ways to recycle textiles
Did you know that a November 2022 law made it illegal to throw your clothing and other textiles away in the trash in Massachusetts? Instead, textiles--which include clothing, footwear, bedding, curtains, and similar items that are clean and dry--must be donated, repurposed, or resold. Even if your textiles are worn, torn, or stained, most can still be donated to a textile recycling facility.
The Green Communities Committee reminds residents of Easton that they have three easy ways to recycle their textiles:
1) Contact HELPSY at https://www.helpsy.co/pickup for free home pickup of three or more bags through a municipal partnership with the town.
2) Drop-off bagged textiles at one of the Bay State Textile bins located on the Easton Public Schools campus. Please close bags tightly; loose textiles may get wet inside the bins, and water is very damaging to donations. Money raised supports extracurricular activities at the schools.
3) Give away reusable clothing, accessories, bedding, etc using Facebook groups (Gifts of Easton, Buy Nothing) or Freecycle.org, or drop off items in good condition to thrift shops, donate them to charity, or resell your best items directly or via consignment.
See https://www.mass.gov/guides/textile-recovery for more information.
Drums Alive
Drums Alive is back! Join our talented instructor Kelly Sipe in this movement and rhythmic program! Mondays at Frothingham Hall between 3:00 – 3:50 pm. This program will run through 2023 and registration is required. Space is limited to 10 people for this class and individuals can be added to a waitlist if others cancel. Call to sign up (508) 230-0690!
New Community Programs Registration Site!
Easton’s office of Community Engagement & Programming has launched our new registration portal<https://eastonma.recdesk.com/Community/Home> for community events and recreational activities. Make your account today and check out all of our latest offerings!
Ames Free Library Hours and Events
The Ames Free Library is open Monday through Thursday from 9 AM to 8 PM, on Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM, and on Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM. Learn about events, workshops, storytimes and more at our website<https://amesfreelibrary.org/> or by signing up for our newsletters<https://amesfreelibrary.org/newsletters>!
Experience gentle chills and thrills of the season all throughout October at the library! Saturday, October 14 learn about the mysteries of lace<https://amesfreelibrary.org/featured-story/2023/09/28/lacemaking> - it's surprisingly lucrative and competitive history, origins, and techniques! The last week of October will be spent celebrating HalloWEEK<https://amesfreelibrary.org/featured-story/2023/09/20/halloweek-2023>, with events for all ages, each day from October 25 through October 31!
Our featured event this month is a special after-hours magic and mind reader<https://amesfreelibrary.org/events/special/halloween-magic-and-mind-reading-after-hours-event> program on Saturday, October 28! Prepare to have your mind probed, then spend some time reliving the experience over snacks and drinks. This event is for adults ages 18 and up. Tickets cost $30 and are available now at the library or online.
Between those special events at the beginning and end of the month, look for the Easton Garden Club’s annual Books in Bloom<https://amesfreelibrary.org/events/adult-kids-special/books-bloom-2023> display, where members of the Garden Club imagine books as flower arrangements! These displays are available for viewing all around the library from until Saturday, October 14. Also on October 14, join local author Anna Staniszewski for a mermaid storytime and craft<https://amesfreelibrary.org/events/kids-special/mermaid-storytime-craft-anna-staniszewski> featuring her latest book, My Cousin’s Mermaid, or hear from special education professional Theresa Mackiewicz<https://amesfreelibrary.org/events/adult/theresa-mackiewicz-author-presentation-special-education> on October 17.
Contact the library at 508-238-2000 or info at amesfreelibrary.org<mailto:info at amesfreelibrary.org> with any questions. We hope to see you soon!
Health & Community Services Transportation News
The Town’s Health & Community Services Dept. is 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-served basis. If you have any questions or to sign up for rides, call us at (508) 230-0690<tel:(508)%20230-0690> ext 2.
The Art Co-op/Gallery
Enjoy an inspiring mix of local artwork at the Art Co-op/Gallery, located at 50 Main Street (small cape house in the midst of Ames Shovel Works Apartments). The Art Co-op/Gallery features Guest Artists as well as the works of many talented, local artists that showcase and sell fine art in paintings and photography, jewelry, wood turned items (including kitchen ready bowls, platters) handmade baskets, cards and many gift items.
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.
Friends of the Ames Free Library News
The Friends operate the Book Sale Room at Queset House, which is open whenever Queset House itself is open (from 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm Monday through Thursday, and 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm Friday and Saturday). We accept donations of gently used books in very good condition during our Saturday hours. Please visit this page<https://www.amesfreelibrary.org/friends-book-sale-room> for our donation guidelines. The Friends welcome new members and volunteers; you can find more information here<https://www.amesfreelibrary.org/friends-library>, where you can also download a copy of our quarterly newsletter.
Easton Commission on Disability
WHAT WE DO:
* Advocate for residents who experience an access or disability related problem in town
* Research local problems of people with disabilities
* Advise and assist town officials and employees in ensuring compliance with state and federal laws and regulations that affect people with disabilities
* Provide information, referrals, guidance, and technical assistance to individuals, public agencies, businesses and organizations in all matters pertaining to disability
* Review and make recommendations about policies, procedures, services, activities and facilities of departments, boards and agencies of the town as they affect people with disabilities
Questions or Concerns? Contact us at cod at easton.ma.us<mailto:cod at easton.ma.us> or visit our website<https://www.easton.ma.us/boards_and_committees/commission_on_disabilities/index.php>.
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 Town’s HCS Dept. 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.
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.
Hours: Tuesday-Friday 9:30 am – 3:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday 12:30 pm – 4:00 pm. Closed Mondays. Last admission 45 mins before closing.
Please click here for a full list of Upcoming Events<https://www.cmeaston.org/visit/whats-new/>!
Easton Food Pantry
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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