Saturday, April 25, 2020

FM #249 Town Clerk Teresa Burr; Asst Clerk Nancy Danelo 4/15/20 (audio)

FM #249 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 249 in the series.

This session of the radio show shares my conversation with Town Clerk Teresa Burr and Assistant Clerk Nancy Danelo. We had our conversation via conference bridge to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

We talk about how the Town Clerk’s office has become virtual continuing to provide most services. They are not currently providing notary public services or accepting marriage intentions at this time. Some other services may take time to turn around but are still being processed.

The one service completion that is not being done at this time is to acknowledge the voter registrations done online or through the registry. Those records are still coming in but are not yet being acknowledged by the office.

Our discussion includes a conversation on the two censuses underway. The annual Town census was in the process of being wrapped up when the shutdown occurred. If you have not yet completed the Town census please send it back or drop it in the white box on the corner of the building.

The Federal 2020 Census is also underway and is important to complete.

The recording runs about 12 minutes, so let’s listen to my conversation with Teresa and Nancy   https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/HN4DNTz7



--------------

The Town Clerk page  https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk
Online Payments page  https://www.franklinma.gov/files

We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm).

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/
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 iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

FM #249 Town Clerk Teresa Burr; Asst Clerk Nancy Danelo 4/15/20 (audio)
FM #249 Town Clerk Teresa Burr; Asst Clerk Nancy Danelo 4/15/20 (audio)

Senator Rausch: COVID-19 Update #15

CORONAVIRUS / COVID-19 UPDATE #15

Friday, April 24, 2020


Hi friends,

I hope everyone is hanging in, especially with this dreary weather. I write with something fun: the next episode of Low Budget Beacon Hill! We're in a pandemic period for the long haul, so I hope this brings a little entertainment. In Episode 3, Rep. Maria Robinson and I went extra-low budget (I'm actually sitting on the floor the whole time) to shed some light on legislating in the time of coronavirus. Watch to the end for the most amusing parts.

We've received plenty of questions from constituents about how the Massachusetts State Government has continued operating during the COVID-19 pandemic. We answer lots of important questions, including:
  • How are decisions made during a state of emergency?
  • How does the legislature vote and operate while practicing social distancing?
  • How does the COVID-19 response differ between the state and federal government?
  • Did you remember to clean out your child's lunchbox?

In addition, my team and I held our third virtual office hours today, with a packed schedule and detailed conversations with constituents from across the district. We've also been hard at work on the 2020 Vote By Mail Act… more on that below.

...

Remember, there’s plenty for each of us to do to keep ourselves and our neighbors safe, like wearing a face covering when you go out in public. I’ve also donated blood and we’re participating in take-out Tuesday to help our local restaurants stay afloat! I’d love to hear what you’ve been up to … please join the social media conversation.

As always, my team and I are here for you. Call us at 617-722-1555 or email me directly at becca.rausch@masenate.gov and one of us will get back to you as quickly as we can. Please follow me on Twitter and Facebook for real-time updates.

Wishing you and your families strength, health, and resilience.

Yours in service,

Senator Becca Rausch


YouTube Link "Low-Budget Beacon Hill Episode 3: Legislating in the Time of Coronavirus" =
https://youtu.be/Jf-VReAyoCs




The newsletter was shortened for publication here, To review the full set of contents   https://mailchi.mp/7a8ac519649e/covid19-update-12318730?e=0c2c9810fe

Panther TV News - Special edition - April 24, 2020

Panther TV (@fhspanthertv) tweeted at 8:40 AM on Fri, Apr 24, 2020:
"@dannyhar562 is still hopeful for the senior class. He shares the work being done behind the scenes toward graduation and other events, on this week's Panther News! "
https://youtu.be/lBIym5RrpIk




Shared from Twitter:
https://twitter.com/fhspanthertv/status/1253665100659122177?s=03



Stadium lights to honor the Class of 2020

"To the Class of 2020, we are all thinking of you and wishing you the best! The future is bright!"



Shared from Twitter:
https://twitter.com/FranklinPSNews/status/1253773337140047873?s=09

Stadium lights to honor the Class of 2020
Stadium lights to honor the Class of 2020

Franklin, MA: Board of Health - Agenda - April 27, 2020

FRANKLIN BOARD OF HEALTH AGENDA
Monday, April 27, 2020
5:00 PM

Due to the growing concerns regarding the COVID-19 virus, we will be conducting a remote/virtual Board of Health Meeting. In an effort to ensure citizen engagement and comply with open meeting law regulations, citizens will be able to dial into the meeting using the provided phone number (Cell phone or Landline Required) OR citizens can participate by clicking on the attached link (Phone, Computer, or Tablet required). The attached link and phone number will be active for the duration of the meeting for citizens to ask questions/voice concerns.

Link:https://zoom.us/j/96430631913?pwd=TThxaDBJbjZWY3g2YkJpSmlGQmptUT09

Call in number: 1-929-205-6099 and enter Meeting ID# 964 3063 1913 Password: 551053 … Then press #


1) NEW BUSINESS
  • A. Discussion pertaining to individuals wearing a cloth covering the nose and mouth in essential businesses.
  • B. Discussion of essential businesses and restaurants selling groceries during outbreak.

Chairman opens the floor for any other new business

2) CITIZENS COMMENTARY

3) ADJOURNMENT


Find the Agenda doc on the Board of Health page
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/agenda-4-27-2020_.pdf

Franklin, MA: Board of Health - Agenda - Arpil 27, 2020
Franklin, MA: Board of Health - Agenda - Arpil 27, 2020

Simplerecycling Curbside Clothing Program Resumes on Monday, April 27

Simplerecycling Curbside Clothing Program 
Starts on Monday, April 27



Good News, the Simplerecycling curbside clothing pink bag recycling starts again on Monday, April 27.

Review our website https://www.franklinma.gov/recycling-solid-waste for more information. Simplerecycling is also available at https://simplerecycling.com/

Please help us out by recycling more clothes than ever before which helps the Franklin Solid Waste program.

We need your support now more than ever.

Thank You


Simplerecycling Curbside Clothing Program Resumes on Monday, April 27
Simplerecycling Curbside Clothing Program Resumes on Monday, April 27

"9 Ways Schools Will Look Different When (And If) They Reopen"

While some folks are upset schools are closed for the remainder of this school year, let's think about what they should look like when they do re-open. Jessica Minahan shared this NPR article as "food for thought."


"9 Ways Schools Will Look Different When (And If) They Reopen"

"Three-quarters of U.S. states have now officially closed their schools for the rest of the academic year. While remote learning continues, summer is a question mark, and attention is already starting to turn to next fall.

Recently, governors including California's Gavin Newsom and New York's Andrew Cuomo have started to talk about what school reopening might look like. And a federal government plan for reopening, according to The Washington Post, says that getting kids back in classrooms or other group care is the first priority for getting back to normal.

But there are still many more unknowns than guarantees. Among the biggest, says Lily Eskelsen Garcia, president of the National Education Association, the nation's largest teachers union, is this: "Is it safe and healthy for my kids to pack them into that classroom?"

Here are nine key ideas — drawn from interviews with public health experts, education officials and educators around the country — for what reopening might look like."

Continue reading about the 9 ideas online
https://www.npr.org/2020/04/24/842528906/what-it-might-look-like-to-safely-reopen-schools

Shared from Jessica Minahan via Twitter:
https://twitter.com/jessica_minahan/status/1253702816583102464?s=03

"9 Ways Schools Will Look Different When (And If) They Reopen"
"9 Ways Schools Will Look Different When (And If) They Reopen"

In the News: community volunteers making roughly 350 gowns daily; Stop & Stop won’t refuse service to those without masks

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:
"The registered nurse who works at Milford Regional Medical Center was worried about the dwindling supply of personal protective equipment, especially gowns that help reduce the spread of infection to medical center employees who are treating COVID-19 patients.

So Nadeau had an idea. What if there was a way to incorporate the plastic sheets that greenhouses use to protect plants and turn them into medical gowns?

Three weeks ago in the middle of the night, she searched the internet, and found instructions that showed it could be done. She made a prototype out of a trash bag and showed it to Nicole Thyne, executive vice-president and chief operating officer at Milford Regional."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200424/this-is-life-saving-work-volunteers-crank-out-protective-gowns-for-milford-regional-medical-center


Stop & Shop won’t turn away customers who fail to cover their faces, a widely-suggested way to curb the spread of the coronavirus, according to a company spokesperson.

“Our associates will not deny entry to a customer who is not wearing a mask in an effort to prevent potential conflict and to help ensure the safety of our associates,” Stop & Shop External Communications and Community Relations Manager Maria Fruci told the Daily News in an email this week.

The policy applies even in communities where local health officials have issued orders requiring residents wear facial coverings, including as Bellingham, Milford, and Framingham.

“Stop & Shop associates are speaking directly with customers who are not wearing a face covering to remind them of the new mandate,” Fruci said. “Those who are not wearing a mask are asked to expedite their shopping trip and wear a mask next time.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200424/stop-amp-stop-wont-refuse-service-to-those-without-masks

Stop & Shop
Stop & Shop

Friday, April 24, 2020

Franklin Food Pantry: Thank you for showing us that we are all in this together

"The past few months have been challenging to say the least. In early March when we were faced with the start of the Covid-19 crisis we weren't sure what was going to happen. We didn't know how many new neighbors we'd need to welcome into our Pantry and we didn't know how we'd be able to serve them and all of our existing neighbors.

Almost overnight we were able to change our operations and serve our neighbors with a prepackaged bag of self stable foods, fresh produce and choice of protein via a drive up service. We were ready to help them and we will continue to be ready to serve throughout this pandemic and whenever this pandemic is over, we will be ready to serve all those who need this.

We couldn't do this without you. Through your generosity, you have helped us meet our neighbors' needs. Every donation coming in allows us to purchase fresh produce, shelf-stable food, proteins like frozen beef and chicken, and even bags to pack the food in. Your support also allows us to keep the lights on, fill the Pantry truck with gas, and keep our doors open for all who need us.

Our local businesses have also stepped up to help us. Thank you to:
  • JH Pokory Associates
  • CVS
  • Target
  • Thermo Fisher
  • Wal-Mart
Again, thank you. This experience, while being so uncertain and sad, has also shown us such hope. Margaret Mead said it best, "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has."

Your generosity and thoughtfulness is making Franklin just a little bit brighter. You inspire us everyday. Thank you for showing us - and the community - that we are all in this together. "


https://youtu.be/zA_yhDFwWKE


To donate to the Franklin Food Pantry  https://www.franklinfoodpantry.org/
 



GoFundMe for FHS wrestling coach: Carmine Colace


"In a time of a tragic pandemic, small businesses are struggling to pay their bills. One of these businesses, New England Gold Wrestling Club, is owned by legendary Franklin High School wrestling coach, Carmine Colace. Carmine has transformed hundreds of lives not only in the town of Franklin but all over the New England region.
In these troubling times, we hope to help support Carmine pay for rent and prepare for when he re-opens. Carmine’s significant other Kathy has been recently diagnosed with breast cancer. Kathy has embraced the lifestyle of wrestling and has a smile on her face every time we see her.
Carmine has taught all of his wrestler’s life long lessons such as hard work, dedication and to just keep on wrestling. Carmine’s hard work and dedication has led to not only our success but his success as well. We know this time is difficult for everyone but please consider helping Carmine and New England Gold wrestling during a difficult financial time.
We want to see Carmine continue to change people’s lives. Just like Carmine supports us in following our dreams, we want to do the same."
GoFundMe link
https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-legendary-franklin-coach-carmine-colace


Shared via Twitter:
https://twitter.com/FHSWrestle/status/1253349939465334784?s=09


GoFundMe for FHS wrestling coach: Carmine Colace
GoFundMe for FHS wrestling coach: Carmine Colace

FHS Unified Music presents "I want it that way"

"Hey everyone! Here is the final product of the video we have been working on for the last few weeks! Hope you enjoy!"

YouTube Link = https://youtu.be/ZSgg6RDHcd8




Shared via Twitter:
https://twitter.com/FHSUnifiedMusic/status/1253445557659541505?s=09

In the News: Charles River Meadowlands study completed

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:
"After nearly two years of effort, the Beta Group recently completed a draft study of the Charles River Meadowlands in Bellingham, Franklin and Medway.

“Joining three communities around a shared natural asset, the Charles River Meadowlands, is what this project is all about,” said Kelly R. Carr, senior associate at BETA Group, Inc., the consulting firm that conducted the study.

Dating to early meetings in 2016, the Meadowlands Initiative (www.charlesrivermeadowlands.org) has sought to bring focus and awareness to the hundreds of acres of public wetlands and borderlands controlled by the US Army Corps of Engineers in the three towns.

Originally acquired in the 1970s and 1980s for flood control, and incorporated in the Charles River Natural Valley Storage Area, the region has been gradually walled off from the public by roadways and rapid private development. However, each of the towns has land holdings for conservation and other purposes that abut the federal lands, effectively creating a large natural sanctuary similar in scale to the Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge in Concord."

https://franklin.wickedlocal.com/news/20200422/charles-river-meadowlands-study-completed

View a copy of the full report:
https://3c2eb8ef-bdd5-452c-ac1c-90b53ffa5b46.filesusr.com/ugd/2fc87e_2111508ad75f4b71a15471c7c14ec28f.pdf




In the News: Charles River Meadowlands study completed
In the News: Charles River Meadowlands study completed

FHS Keep Music Alive #4 (video)

Dear Franklin Community,

The news released this week by Governor Baker was expected, but sad for all of us at Franklin High School. We are especially sad for our seniors who have worked so hard over the past 4 years and were looking forward to a traditional senior, "end of the year". The Franklin music department is so proud of our seniors and we thank you for all the wonderful memories.

Today's FHS Music Alive post will feature FHS senior, CJ Dexter on Baritone Saxophone. He will be attending UCONN in the fall to major in communications and music.

I am also including a video of a selection from the FHS Musical Theatre Company's final rehearsal before remote learning began. I would like to thank Mrs. Marianne Lonati, Ms. Renee Hersee and the entire cast of Chicago. I am deeply saddened that we will not get to see the final production. This selection is "Razzle Dazzle" from "Chicago", featuring senior Danny Harrington and the entire cast. The show was supposed to run March 20 and 21.

Enjoy!

Diane M. Plouffe
Director of Music
Franklin Public Schools
Franklin High School

CJ Dexter - Baritone Saxophone
https://drive.google.com/file/d/19GEwZ9xf1XJxHUrNAZyG9r8yNoDCazAC/view?usp=sharing





Danny Harrington and the FHS Cast of "Chicago"
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1FdaTDnboGhfYq5AsdO0wwwCRYM-fy4O9/view?usp=sharing 


FTC Sends 21 Letters Warning Marketers to Stop Making Unsupported Claims That Their Products and Therapies Can Effectively Treat Coronavirus



Supposed therapies range from stem cell infusions to acupuncture and ozone treatments

The Federal Trade Commission announced it has sent 21 additional letters warning marketers throughout the United States to stop making unsubstantiated claims that their products and therapies can treat or prevent coronavirus (COVID-19). This is third set of warning letters the FTC has sent to sellers of such products as part of its ongoing efforts to protect consumers from COVID-19 related scams.

The FTC previously sent warning letters to the sellers of supplements including colloidal silver, teas, essential oils, and other products pitched as scientifically proven coronavirus treatments. The letters announced today, however, address a wider range of products and supposed treatments, including some that may appear more medically sophisticated to consumers, such as acupuncture, intravenous (IV) "therapies" with high doses of Vitamin C, ozone therapy, and purported stem cell treatments. However, there is currently no scientific evidence that these products or services can treat or cure coronavirus.

The FTC sent the letters announced today to the companies and individuals listed below. The recipients are grouped based on the type of therapy, product, or service they pitched to supposedly prevent or treat coronavirus disease.

General Therapy Products, Vitamins, and Supplements:
  • Abundant Life Wellness Center (homeopathic dilutions)
  • Alkaline for Life at the Center for Better Bones (high-dose Vitamin C)
  • Blessed Maine Herb Farm (herbal therapy)
  • Ethos Natural Medicine LLC (Kratom tablets and powders)
  • Fast Relief Acupuncture (acupuncture and herbal therapy)
  • Greenbelt Outdoors (high-dose Vitamin C)
  • Jiva Med Spa (supplements)
  • Personal Health Shop (elderberry)
  • REVIV (high-dose Vitamin C)

IV Therapy and Related Treatments:
  • Absolute Health Clinic (IV Vitamin C; stem cell therapy)
  • AwareMed (IV therapy)
  • Liquivida Lounge (IV therapy; Vitamin C)
  • Merge Medical Center
  • Prana IV Therapy (IV Vitamin C)
  • Vidaful Medicine (IV Vitamin C; stem cell therapy; ozone therapy)
  • Windhorse Naturopathic Clinic (IV Vitamin C)

Ozone Therapy:
  • American Medical Aesthetics
  • RowenSu Clinic
  • TRLYHEAL Pty. Ltd.

Stem Cell Therapy:
  • Center for Regenerative Cell Medicine
  • Stemedix, Inc.

In the letters, the FTC states that one or more of the efficacy claims made by the marketers are unsubstantiated because they are not supported by scientific evidence, and therefore violate the FTC Act. The letters advise the recipients to immediately cease making all claims that their products can treat or cure coronavirus and to notify the FTC within 48 hours about the specific actions they have taken to address the agency's concerns.

The letters note that if the false claims do not cease, the Commission may seek a federal court injunction and an order requiring money to be refunded to consumers.

The letters announced today are the latest round of warnings the FTC has sent to sellers of products pitched as able treat or prevent coronavirus. The Commission also has sent letters to several Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) service providers, warning them that it is illegal to aid or facilitate the transmission of pre-recorded telemarketing robocalls pitching supposed coronavirus-related products or services.

The Federal Trade Commission works to promote competition, and protect and educate consumers. You can learn more about consumer topics and file a consumer complaint online or by calling 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357). Like the FTC on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, read our blogs, and subscribe to press releases for the latest FTC news and resources.

Shared from FTC
https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/press-releases/2020/04/ftc-sends-21-letters-warning-marketers-stop-making-unsupported?utm_source=govdelivery


"Anyone with a computer and an Internet connection can join in"

From the Boston Globe, an article of interest to Franklin.
"City and town halls across the state are largely silent this spring as efforts to slow the spread of coronavirus have forced public meetings online — leaving elected officials working to keep local government moving in the midst of a pandemic.

Until a few weeks ago, Kenneth Tavares — chairman of Plymouth’s Select Board and a 50-year veteran of town politics — never would have imagined holding video conference calls to conduct public business. Now, he feels differently.

"I think I'm a fan of it," Tavares said. "Thirty days ago, I don't think I would have said that to you."
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.bostonglobe.com/2020/04/23/metro/midst-pandemic-public-meetings-continue-online/

In this pandemic time, the Town of Franklin is not alone in moving to virtual meetings. While the Governor's Executive Order has allowed for these, and they do work, although they would seem to take longer, that is a small price to pay. Questions remain to be resolved to make this a standard practice. 

In the BCE (before coronavirus era), an open meeting basically meant, the location of the meeting was physically open for anyone to walk in, even if handicapped. In this digital arena, internet access seems to be the default. 

However, how do other forms of handicap get addressed? Assuming internet is broadly available (a big assumption), how does the online platform enable someone with a hearing disability participate? The Governor's press updates have an individual signing American Sign Language (ASL). That provides the information outward. How would a hearing impaired person, ask a question or provide feedback on a topic?

What does accessible meant for an open meeting in this digital/virtual world?
 
one of three screens of users for the Town Council meeting Weds (over 60 at peak)
one of three screens of users for the Town Council meeting Weds (over 60 at peak)

Legislature Acts to Allow Virtual Notarization

Today House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo and Senate President Karen E. Spilka along with their colleagues in the House of Representatives and the Senate passed legislation to authorize notary publics to perform notary actions using video conferencing during the COVID-19 public health emergency.

“During the public health emergency it has been difficult for the public to process certain legal transactions especially those on behalf of those who are sick or dying, therefore the Legislature acted to ensure notaries can conduct business virtually in order to adhere to physical distancing measures,” said Speaker Robert DeLeo (D – Winthrop). “We must make sure that families, individuals, and businesses can execute wills, proxies, real estate transactions, and other important documents during the COVID-19 public health crisis. I am grateful to Chairs Michlewitz and Cronin for their work to act on this important issue.”

"Allowing for virtual notarization will mean important legal transactions can continue unimpeded, which is good for our economy and the Commonwealth as a whole," stated Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). "I am pleased to see this legislation advance as it will provide a safe alternative for residents and businesses during this public health crisis. I'd like to thank Senators Michael Rodrigues, John Keenan, Minority Leader Bruce Tarr as well as Speaker DeLeo and our House partners for their collaboration on this issue."

The legislation applies requirements for authorized notary publics to use electronic video conferencing for documents requiring notarization including those related to a mortgage or other conveyance of title to real estate, will, nomination of guardian or conservator, caregiver authorization affidavit, trust, durable power of attorney, or health care proxy.

The legislation includes the following provisions, which will be in place until three business days after termination of the March 10, 2020 declaration of a State of Emergency:

· Authorizes a notary public appointed under the laws of the Commonwealth to perform an acknowledgement, affirmation or other notarial act using video conferencing in real time;
· Makes valid notarial acts using video conferencing when the notary public and each principal are physically located within the Commonwealth as well as other provisions;
· Requires notaries to record the video conference and retain a copy of the conference; and related documentation for 10 years.

"By enacting electronic notarization legislation, we will ensure that crucial area of our economy will continue to function in a safe and responsible manner throughout the COVID-19 public health crisis," said Representative Aaron Michlewitz, Co-Chair of the Joint Committee on Ways & Means (D – Boston).

“This legislation will allow members of our communities to conduct necessary estate planning and real estate transactions safely without risking exposure to COVID-19 through the typical in-person notarization process,” said Representative Claire Cronin, House Chair of the Joint Committee on Judiciary (D – Easton). “Allowing for documents such as wills, durable powers of attorney, and deeds to be notarized utilizing video conferencing technology, while also including important safeguards to protect the integrity of the process, will enable these important transactions to continue to be carried out under existing public health restrictions. The steps taken by the House today will keep our communities safer during these unprecedented times."

“I am pleased Massachusetts has joined the over 30 states across the country that allow for remote notarization during this emergency,” said Senator John F. Keenan (D-Quincy). “We have given our families and friends facing difficult decisions, some peace of mind that they now have the ability to complete proper arrangements should they need to.”

“The COVID-19 pandemic has forced us all to adjust many of our normal routines and the way we conduct business for the sake of protecting public health and safety,” said House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R – North Reading). “This bill makes needed temporary changes to the notarization process to ensure that the execution of wills, the conveyance of property titles, and other important transactions can continue to take place while still observing proper safety protocols.”

“Documents like wills, trusts, healthcare proxies and those involving real estate are critically important, and we can't let them be out of reach because of the need for social distancing,” said Senate Minority Leader Bruce E. Tarr (R- Gloucester). “This bill allows technology to bridge the gap between protecting public health and keeping the integrity of the notarization process - meaning that legal documents can resume doing the job of estate planning, protecting assets, and facilitating transactions during this public health emergency.”

The bill, which is the latest action by the Legislature to address the COVID-19 public health crisis and its effects on Massachusetts, has advanced to the Governor desk.

 
Legislature Acts to Allow Virtual Notarization
Legislature Acts to Allow Virtual Notarization

Town of Franklin Department Spotlights: Facilities

Our buildings may be temporarily closed but all of our departments are still hard at work getting important jobs and services done! 

Our first Spotlight is on the Facilities Department and it can be found here https://sites.google.com/view/spotlight-facilities/home

More Spotlights will be coming soon so stay tuned!! They can also be found on our social media

Town of Franklin Department Spotlights: Facilities
Town of Franklin Department Spotlights: Facilities


Shared from the Town of Franklin page
https://www.franklinma.gov/home/news/introducing-department-spotlights
 

Thursday, April 23, 2020

FM #252 Town Council Special COVID-19 Roundtable 4/22/20 (audio)

FM #252 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 252 in the series.

This session of the radio show shares the recording of the virtual Town Council meeting held on April 22, 2020 from approx 4:30 PM to almost 6:30 PM. The virtual meeting was conducted via conference bridge to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

Town Council Chair Tom Mercer opened the meeting reading the new statement on open meetings per the Governor’s Executive Order. Some participants connected via phone only, some via a system device with video image. The meeting recording ends with the completion of the vote to adjourn conducted via roll call.

Everyone who speaks is introduced by name so it should be easy to follow along.

There was only one agenda item for this session (link provided below):
2. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSION

a. Coronavirus Updates: When will Franklin Businesses Reopen, when and how?

A Community Conversation with a Town Department Head Roundtable including Town Administrator Jamie Hellen; Town Attorney Mark Cerel; Board of Health Chair, Bridget Sweet; Health Department Staff, Cathy Liberty and Ginny McNeil; Chief of Police TJ Lynch; Fire Chief Jim McLaughlin; and Building Inspector Gus Brown.

The recording runs almost about 2 hours, so let’s listen to the Town of Franklin roundtable on COVID-19.  https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/HZZqKB87




--------------

Link to agenda document:
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/2020-04-22_town_council_agenda_1.pdf

We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm).

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/
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 iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

screenshot of part of the meeting audience; reached a peak of 67 at one point
screenshot of part of the meeting audience; reached a peak of 67 at one point

Encore Music makes the TV broadcast

This is why we do what we do. Our Encore family means everything to us, and our "doors" will always be open. We are honored to have been featured by Boston 25 News today! Check it out!

https://www.boston25news.com/video/?id=4890957

Encore Music makes the TV broadcast
Encore Music makes the TV broadcast

Submissions Still Open for The 6 Feet Festival

Submissions Still Open for The 6 Feet Festival
Submissions Still Open for The 6 Feet Festival

THE BLACK BOX Instagram account
https://www.instagram.com/stories/the_black_box_online/

FM #251 Bryan Taberner, Planning and Community Development 4/16/20 (audio)

FM #251 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 251 in the series.

This session of the radio show shares my conversation with Bryan Taberner, Director of Planning and Community Development. We had our conversation via conference bridge to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

We talk about how the Planning work, along with that of the Planning Board, Conservation Commission, and Zoning Board of Appeals is making progress in this new ‘normal’ of the pandemic world and virtual meetings.

Much of the current meeting agendas cover projects or matters that were already underway. They have held off on initiating new projects with public hearings for now. The fear is to be able to conduct business in this new manner and not have the results later challenged.

Our discussion also covers the major projects (Master Plan update, Hazard Mitigation Plan, Economic Plan from MAPC, etc.) and how these currently are delayed until how to incorporate public access including for those hearing impaired individuals. How do their needs get met via a Zoom meeting?

Attempting to end the conversation on other than a down note, we also talked about the Franklin Downtown Partnership efforts and other good opportunities that are rising to attempt to fill the gaps.

The recording runs about 32 minutes, so let’s listen to my conversation with Bryan.  Audio file https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/HrXph087




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Planning Board  https://www.franklinma.gov/planning-board
Zoning Board of Appeals  https://www.franklinma.gov/zoning-board-appeals
Conservation Commission  https://www.franklinma.gov/conservation
Dept of Planning and Community Development
https://www.franklinma.gov/planning-community-development

We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm).

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/
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"

FM #251 Bryan Taberner, Planning and Community Development 4/16/20 (audio)
FM #251 Bryan Taberner, Planning and Community Development 4/16/20 (audio)

Bridget Sweet on food safety and COVID-19 (audio)

Bridget Sweet. Chair of the Franklin Board of Health, recently did a culinary podcast regarding food safety and COVID-19.  This may be helpful to dispel some of the concerns about eating out. In the course of the discussion, they also gave a local business a shout out; Santa Fe Burrito Grill.

Jaime and Matt look for answers to their coronavirus related questions by connecting with Bridget Sweet, Exec. Director of Food Safety, at Johnson & Wales University. Their conversations tackle best practices as they relate to food delivery, take out and in store shopping.

Listen to Bridget here
http://culinarynowpodcast.buzzsprout.com/731372/3292906-bridget-sweet


Bridget Sweet on food safety and COVID-19 (audio)
Bridget Sweet on food safety and COVID-19 (audio)
 

“We’re used to it so we don’t think much of it"

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:
"As most work places shut their doors, employees adjust to working from home and consumers get used to once-weekly shopping trips with face coverings and gloves, one South Shore business is working overtime to make sure airplanes, grocery stores and other essential spaces are still safe for the public: Clean Harbors.

“As it hit hot spots, so did we,” Clean Harbors Senior Vice President Chuck Geer said. “Our movements really did mimic the COVID-19 spread and our responses have spiked almost simultaneously with the virus cases.”

Clean Harbors is one of the nation’s leaders in decontamination, and has been for decades. The Norwell-based business has responded after major events such as the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks and the Gulf Oil Spill, as well as the swine flu spread and H1N1 scare, but as is true for most businesses, a pandemic is new territory.

“It’s completely new to us, America hasn’t seen a true pandemic like this and neither have we,” Geer said Tuesday. “But really, there are a lot of similarities between this kind of clean up and any type of infectious waste. . . The chemicals we use to destroy the virus may change up, but really it’s the same principal.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200422/massachusetts-company-clean-harbors-leads-decontamination-response-nationwide-during-coronavirus-pandemic


https://www.cleanharbors.com/
https://www.cleanharbors.com/

Franklin, MA: Town Council Meeting - Agenda - Executive Session - April 29

FRANKLIN TOWN COUNCIL
Agenda and Meeting Packet
April 29, 2020

Municipal Building First Floor Lobby
355 East Central Street 4:30 - 6:30 PM

1. EXECUTIVE SESSION
a. Collective Bargaining
i. I request a motion that the Board vote to convene in Executive Session for the purpose of discussing strategy with respect to collective bargaining, because an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the bargaining position of the Board.
2. ADJOURN


https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/_2020-04-29_town_council_agenda.pdf

Franklin, MA: Town Council Meeting - Agenda - Executive Session - April 29
Franklin, MA: Town Council Meeting - Agenda - Executive Session - April 29

HMEA's incredABLE Virtual Community Walk



Join Us for Our incredABLE Virtual Community Walk
We may not be able to physically be together for this incredABLE 5K,
but we can be together VIRTUALLY!

Here's how it works:

  • Share your personal page with your friends and family to get donations and recruit team members
  • You'll receive a link to the Virtual Community Walk that will take place via Zoom.
  • Tune-in on May 17 at 10:00 am to watch a 30 minute musical video timeline of HMEA's 5K over the past 19 years.
  • Do whatever kind of exercise you like - dance, walk, jog, march, hop to the music - and watch for photos of your friends, family and yourself!
The first 200 registered participants will receive an incredABLE 5K lunch tote and all registrants will receive an incredABLE 5K bracelet and insider info on contests, events, and more.
incredABLE Keep Moving Challenge
Just because you are stuck at home doesn't mean you shouldn't keep moving! Take a walk, do some yoga, stretch, follow an exercise video on YouTube, dance. How ever you can keep moving counts!
Here's how it works:

  • Start tracking your activity hours. You can use your favorite fitness app (examples: Fitbit, Pacer, Map My Fitness, Activity Tracker, My Fitness Pal) or we have a handy tracking sheet you can use, click here.
  • To be entered as a contestant, submit your name and accumulated activity hours from April 3 (or the date you began) to May 10 to tandryc@hmea.org before midnight May 10.
  • All contestants will be entered into a drawing to win a Fitbit® inspire HR™ Fitness Tracker Watch.

The winner will be announced during our
Live Virtual Awards Ceremony at 11:00 AM on May 17th on our Facebook page.

HMEA | 8 Forge Park East, Franklin, MA 02038
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