"Community Read Discussion incoming!
We have two dates and times! (1 behind, 1 forthcoming!)
What are some questions you have to start us off?"
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| Community Read discussion scheduled for Tracy Kidder's "Rough Sleepers" |
FM #1138 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1138 in the series.
This session of the radio show shares the output of The Climate Minute podcast episode hosted by Ted McIntyre, Franklin resident and climate activist. We met to record in the Franklin TV & Public Radio studio on Tuesday, January 16, 2024.
The topic thread we talked of as we continued this "making sense of climate" discussion went something like this:
Climate Leader Community
State pilot to allow gas bans in 10 communities
Path dependence
Critical juncture
Behavioral changes underlying energy revolution/overshoot/planetary management
Need for new behavior now
End of world? Viewpoints matter.
This discussion continues our journey understanding the MA roadmap toward net zero and while it helps me “make sense of climate”, we hope it helps with your understanding as well.
If you have climate questions or Franklin specific climate questions, send them in and we’ll try to answer them in a future session.
The conversation runs about 54 minutes. Let’s listen to my conversation with Ted.
Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1138-making-sense-of-climate-38-01-16-24--------------
Links to references made during this episode
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1yCyhz-ZVVJImfYvJXnbaOmMhXE9RRX1E/view?usp=drive_link
Link to the MA page on Climate Leader Communities -> https://www.mass.gov/info-details/climate-leader-communities
Links to other places you can find The Climate Minute
You can listen to the #ClimateMinute on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-climate-minute/id589025783
You can listen to the #ClimateMinute on Podbean https://massclimateaction.podbean.com/
You can listen to the #ClimateMinute on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3UIZfLRoUQVLXUY2jMAsCk
** See the page that collects all the “Making Sense of Climate” episodes -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2022/02/making-sense-of-climate-collection.html
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We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial.
This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.
How can you help?
If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors
If you don't like something here, please let me know
Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.
For additional information, please visit www.franklin.news/ or www.Franklinmatters.org/
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com
The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana" c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.
I hope you enjoy!
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You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"
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| We talk path dependence, critical juncture, and behavioral changes in this Making Sense of Climate episode (audio) |
"On July 5, 2023—160 years after the Battle of Gettysburg—the unthinkable happened.We came to @Gettysburg to launch a movement, bringing together 650 conservatives and liberals on equal terms to clarify differences, find common ground where it exists, and strengthen our nation.It was hard to pull off.How do you bring people of opposing viewpoints together during such an intense time of division?We leaned on a small, scrappy staff and a dedicated group of volunteers who put everything they had into making the convention happen.And then, it did."
Read the full thread in this PDF -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/188dE76N8YydAEV743jbqwyZ-aDyTAgwb/view?usp=drive_link
witf.org, the public news service for 17 communities in Central PA provides some video of some of the conventions goers. -> https://www.witf.org/2023/07/14/hundreds-gather-at-gettysburg-college-to-bridge-political-divides-through-constructive-conversations/
For more about Braver Angels, the group that organized this event -> https://braverangels.org/our-mission/
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| "We were led by our two co-Chairs, Erica Manuel ( @ericut ), CEO & Executive Director of @InstLocGov and Wilk Wilkinson (@wilksopinion ), host of @DeratetheHate podcast" |
"Want better, braver politics? Share the heck out of this video.
Then ask *your* elected officials what *they're* doing to save our family dinners... & the whole American experiment.video link -> https://t.co/NCX0TC13yD or https://youtu.be/Ltm0wb9lFAY
Thanks @GovCox & @GovofCO for stepping the f UP! 🇺🇸"
April 21, 2023
To: Town Council
From: Jamie Hellen, Town Administrator
Re: Display of Flags on Town Property
As requested by a few Councilors and several people in the community, tonight the Council will host a discussion on the idea of allowing flags, banners and/or symbols, including the Pride Flag, to be placed on a Municipal Building flagpole and/or other flag poles in town.
Supporting Materials
I have attached the current flag policy of the Town, a recent Supreme Judicial Court of the United States of America decision on a case recently involving the City of Boston and articles from NPR and the NYT summarizing the issue in that case.
The Choices
As I have said before, the Council has two choices on this matter:
● Do not allow town flagpoles to be used for the purposes of allowing third party organizations or individuals to essentially lease the flagpole for various purposes; OR
● Allow town flagpoles to be used for the purposes of allowing third party organizations or individuals to essentially lease the flagpole for various purposes.
If the latter is chosen, the Council will need to identify the pole(s) that can be applied for (presumably only the Municipal Building). Staff will need to work with the DPW and Town Attorney on a revised policy.
Furthermore, a permitting process will be required to ensure equity, inclusion and coordination among all citizens or organizations who would want to display a flag, banner or any symbol. I would also anticipate more events being requested at the Municipal Building. Applicants would be from within the Town of Franklin and also from outside the Town of Franklin. Just like on the Town Common with religious symbols, the Town cannot limit the applicant from just Franklin. There will unquestionably be a fee to do so, as this will take a significant amount of staff time to permit, coordinate and actually perform the work.
Staff recommendation
My professional recommendation, along with the Town Attorney and DPW Director, is to NOT allow the town flagpoles to be used for such purposes. If the Council chooses to move forward, we will all fully respect that decision. However, at a minimum, we request all of you to allow the staff an appropriate amount of time to develop a policy, application, fee and further details. A fee would have to also be enacted by the Council. Many details would need to be coordinated. For example, most of the flagpoles come with a purpose already, such as the war memorial on the Town Common, or the Town Administration Building, which traditionally has the US Flag, State Flag and Town Flag. These are the standard 3 flags at Massachusetts Town Halls. Additionally, there is a federal flag code for those who die in the line of duty, or deaths of certain dignitaries among others.
If you do not choose to move forward, we have worked closely with many organizations through the years on alternatives and continue to pledge to do so. Many groups are satisfied with our suggestions.
At the end of the day, this is an all or nothing policy decision. While I fully recognize the fact some groups will want to show unified support for a cause, there are NO restrictions or limitations on who can apply or to what the message is. If allowed, the Town should prepare for messages, flags and banners we all support and from those we do not support.
Everyone has to ask themselves, is this the only, or most effective way, to increase support for a cause? In the end, policies on offering town flagpoles up for lease generally become political or religious messaging, affirmation of constitutional rights, or those for a common cause such as a fundraising effort for a family tragedy or social service cause. Is this what you want for the Municipal Building flagpole and/or other flagpoles? The staff are not convinced this effort would reap the short term rewards that are sought. The long term ramifications are challenging to predict.
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| Letter to Town Council on Display of Flags on Town Property (agenda item for Council Mtg - 04/26/23) |
The conversation this evening is much more expansive than the LGBTQ community. The debate is whether to allow commercial leasing of public space to members of the public, the pros and cons of that policy and what are the parameters. There are many sub questions that will need to be answered as well.
Shared from the Town Council agenda package -> https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/town_council_agenda_-_april_26_2023_0.pdf
Memo from Town Administrator -> https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/8b._flags_0.pdf
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| A Priest A Rabbi and A Minister Walk Into A Radio Station |
Dean College is a private, residential New England college grounded in a culture and tradition that all students deserve the opportunity for academic and personal success. A uniquely supportive community for more than 150 years, Dean has woven together extensive student support and engagement with exceptional teaching and innovative campus activities. Our graduates are lifetime learners who thrive in their careers, embrace social responsibility and demonstrate leadership. This is The Dean Difference.
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| - https://www.amazon.com/Brother-Outsider-Life-Bayard-Rustin/dp/B003LR5BBC |
Dean College is a private, residential New England college grounded in a culture and tradition that all students deserve the opportunity for academic and personal success. A uniquely supportive community for more than 150 years, Dean has woven together extensive student support and engagement with exceptional teaching and innovative campus activities. Our graduates are lifetime learners who thrive in their careers, embrace social responsibility and demonstrate leadership. This is The Dean Difference.
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| Dean College to Host a Screening and Discussion of the Film “Uprooted: The Journey of Jazz Dance” |
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| "Lucky Jack" POW Book Presentation by local author Sue Bavey - Jan 23 at 11 AM |
Shared from Town of Franklin page -> https://www.franklinma.gov/veterans-services/news/lucky-jack-pow-book-presentation-local-author-sue-bavey
Franklin For All will be at the Strawberry Stroll this Friday from 4pm-8pm! Attendees will be able to connect with Franklin for All project staff regarding the proposed recommendations and enjoy a town sponsored magic mirror photo booth experience to document the fun and resident dreams of downtown revitalization. Find us at the intersection of Dean Ave and Main Street, directly across from the stage for fun and engaging photo- op!
Shared from -> https://www.franklinma.gov/home/news/magic-mirror-photo-booth-strawberry-stroll-franklin-all-tabling-friday
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| Magic Mirror Photo Booth at the Strawberry Stroll & Franklin For All Table |
Among the items on the School Committee meeting Tuesday evening are the following for Guests/Presentations:
A. Retiree Recognition
B. District Improvement Plan Update 2021-2022 https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/dip_outcomes_to_sc_2021-2022.pdf
C. Superintendent’s Evaluation – Presentation of Evidence https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/superintendents_evaluation_evidence_2021-2022.pdf
And longer list than recently seen of Discussion Action items
A. Superintendent’s Contract
The Chair recommends approval of a 3 year contract with Lucas Giguere as Superintendent of Schools - July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2025. https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/dip_outcomes_to_sc_2021-2022.pdf
B. Policy - 2nd Reading/Adoption
I recommend adoption of policy ADF - Wellness Policy as discussed. https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_b_-_policy_2.pdf
C. Boys Basketball Trip
I recommend approval of the request of CJ Neely to take the Boys Basketball team to Orlando, Florida from December 26-30, 2022 to participate in the 2022 KSA Events Basketball Tournament as detailed. https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_c_-_basketball_trip_-_orlando.pdf
D. Performing Arts Trip
I recommend approval of the request of Dianne Plouffe to take students to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida from April 15-19, 2023 to perform as detailed. https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_d_-_performing_arts_trip.pdf
E. Spain Trip
I recommend approval of the request of Emily Chaisson & Laura Keenan to take students to Malaga & Granada, Spain from April 14-22, 2023 as detailed. https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_e_-_spain_trip.pdf
F. Proposed MASC Resolution Regarding Sanctuary Laws for Trans Students
I recommend the School Committee adopt the proposed MASC Resolution regarding sanctuary laws for trans students for formal consideration by the 2022 Massachusetts Association of School Committees Delegate Assembly in November as discussed. https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_f_-_resolution.pdf
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| Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - May 24, 2022 - 7 PM |
FM #755 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 755 in the series.
This session of the radio show shares my conversation with several members of the Economic Development “Plus” Committee to talk about the Franklin For All process. We recorded this via the Zoom conference bridge Mar 15, 2022.
Chair, Melanie Hamblen, Town Council
Beth Wierling, member of the Planning Board
Cobi Frongillo, member of the Town Council
Bruce Hunchard, chair of the Zoning Board of Appeals
The recording runs about 38 minutes, so let’s listen to the conversation about the Franklin For All project and process.
Audio file -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-755-franklin-for-all-discussion-03-15-22
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Respond to the survey by April 1 => https://mapc.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bDBzodBPnt8a5Ce
Franklin For All Forum - March 7, 2022
Transcript => https://drive.google.com/file/d/1WEsjmEFESie06Bx4bAOSxhMbhpY45gsL/view?usp=sharing
Audio recording => https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-748-franklin-for-all-forum-03-07-22
Video recording => https://youtu.be/9fewoumulN4
Franklin For All project page -> https://www.mapc.org/resource-library/franklin-for-all/
--------------
We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial.
This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.
How can you help?
If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors
If you don't like something here, please let me know
Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.
For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news/
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com
The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana" c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.
I hope you enjoy!
------------------
You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"
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| This Franklin For All Discussion reveals insights |
