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Voices of Franklin: Call to protect your financial data |
Providing accurate and timely information about what matters in Franklin, MA since 2007. * Working in collaboration with Franklin TV and Radio (wfpr.fm) since October 2019 *
Tuesday, February 4, 2025
Voices of Franklin: Call to protect your financial data
Saturday, November 30, 2024
Voices of Franklin: Registry Disaster Recovery office in Dedham to be "permanently closed"
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Voices of Franklin: Registry Disaster Recovery office in Dedham to be "permanently closed" |
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2011/03/introducing-voices-of-franklin.html
Sunday, November 24, 2024
Voices of Franklin: 350 Mass Greater Franklin Node says thanks to State Rep Jeff Roy
November 21, 2024
Dear Representative Jeff Roy,
We understand Governor Healey signed the climate bill today! We want to profoundly thank you and the climate conference committee for working so carefully and thoughtfully to create the robust, cutting-edge climate bill this legislative session! We appreciate that it was a challenge to write into law the necessary gradual transition from methane gas to clean electricity, making sure the balance is flexible, well thought out, and smooth.
We also want to acknowledge that the process was longer and more difficult than anyone wanted, and was at times contentious. Trail-blazing legislation does take time and significant effort. We thank you and the whole conference committee for sticking with it to get to YES!
This bill represents another groundbreaking step toward a just, clean energy future for Massachusetts. We look forward to continued collaboration with you in the future as we fight together for climate action and climate justice!
With gratitude,
Carolyn Barthel and Steve Derdiarian, Coordinators
Mark Minnechelli
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350 Mass Greater Franklin Node |
Marissa Bovie
Rand Barthel
Ted McIntyre
Megan McCarthy
Ray Milici
Kate Warsing
Rachel Plukas
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2011/03/introducing-voices-of-franklin.html
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Voices of Franklin: 350 Mass Greater Franklin Node says thanks to State Rep Jeff Roy |
Monday, November 4, 2024
Voices of Franklin: 4 Franklin women among crowd rallying to support women's rights
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4 Franklin women among crowd rallying to support women's rights (courtesy photo) |
Additional photos submitted can be found in this album ->
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2011/03/introducing-voices-of-franklin.html
Saturday, November 2, 2024
Voices of Franklin: J Garland says candidate's claim is "empty words"
"I thank you for the courtesy update regarding the upcoming publication. When covering the story, please highlight that a recent loss in our family has delayed our filing compliance and we are working with OCPF directly to resolve this matter. "
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OCPF page with requirement for filing within 8 days of elections |
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OCPF page for D Videra showing no report activity as required |
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2011/03/introducing-voices-of-franklin.html
Thursday, October 17, 2024
Voices of Franklin: Sue Dewsnap's comments on "Franklin’s Financial Stability and Future Planning"
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2011/03/introducing-voices-of-franklin.html
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Voices of Franklin: Sue Dewsnap's comments on "Franklin’s Financial Stability and Future Planning" |
Tuesday, September 17, 2024
Voices of Franklin: KP Sompally offers insights on the use of medical alert devices
In an increasingly unpredictable world, safety and health are top concerns for vulnerable populations, particularly seniors and school personnel. The need for reliable emergency response systems, such as medical alert devices for seniors and panic buttons for educators, has never been more critical. As these systems evolve, integrating cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence technologies, they become indispensable tools for ensuring swift and effective emergency responses.
Protecting Seniors: The Role of AI in Medical Alert Systems
Medical alert systems are life-saving devices that provide immediate access to emergency services in case of falls, medical emergencies, or other crises. For seniors, especially those living alone, these systems are crucial in safeguarding their health and well-being. Modern medical alert systems now utilize AI technologies to enhance their effectiveness, going beyond basic functions.
AI-powered medical alert devices can monitor daily activities, detect anomalies in behavior, and predict potential health issues before they become emergencies. For instance, some devices can analyze gait patterns to identify the risk of falls, providing preventive alerts. Additionally, AI-driven voice recognition and natural language processing allow seniors to communicate their needs without having to press a button, making help more accessible even in cases where mobility is impaired.
These advancements not only improve response times but also empower seniors to live independently for longer, with the peace of mind that help is always within reach.
Enhancing School Safety: AI-Enabled Panic Buttons for School Personnel
Safety in schools has become a paramount concern for educators, students, and parents alike. Panic buttons provide immediate access to emergency services during critical situations, such as security threats or medical emergencies. Regardless of whether these panic buttons are used regularly, having them in place can save lives.
AI technology is revolutionizing panic button systems in schools by offering features such as real-time location tracking, intelligent threat assessment, and automated alerts to local authorities. AI can quickly assess the severity of a situation and prioritize responses, ensuring that the right resources are dispatched promptly. For instance, in cases of active threats, AI systems can analyze data from various sources—such as security cameras, social media, and communication channels—to provide real-time insights and facilitate faster decision-making by authorities.
Even when these systems are not in frequent use, their presence acts as a deterrent and provides a safety net that reassures school personnel and students alike.
A Commitment to Safety
Medical Alert Systems |
As our society becomes more technologically advanced, the integration of AI in medical alert systems for seniors and panic buttons for school personnel is a natural progression towards ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable populations. These technologies offer the promise of faster responses, predictive capabilities, and enhanced communication during emergencies, ultimately saving lives and providing peace of mind.
It is imperative that we continue to invest in and support the development of AI-driven safety systems to protect those who need it most, whether they are seniors living independently or educators shaping the future in our schools.
Sunday, June 23, 2024
Voices of Franklin: Corey Bunnewith, new owner of Pour Richard's adds to the discussion
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2011/03/introducing-voices-of-franklin.html
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Voices of Franklin: Corey Bunnewith, new owner of Pour Richard's adds to the discussion |
Voices of Franklin: Ann Williams responds on the proposed BJs license transfer
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2011/03/introducing-voices-of-franklin.html
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Voices of Franklin: Ann Williams responds on the proposed BJs license transfer |
Tuesday, June 18, 2024
Voices of Franklin: KP Sompally calls for Inclusive Voting Rights for local elections
- Inclusivity: All residents, regardless of citizenship, contribute to the school system and should have a say in its budget.
- Fair Representation: Ensuring that more than 150 legal taxpayers have the right to vote on school budget issues will reflect a fair and just community.
- Community Strength: Inclusive voting rights will strengthen community bonds and ensure that all voices contribute to the future of Franklin Town's educational system.
I want to clarify my request from yesterday because some of you sent me upset emails. I am totally against illegal non-citizens being able to vote in elections. I was requesting to let legal residents, who are paying taxes and obeying the law just like us, vote in municipal elections especially for the school budget issues. These residents are permanent residents in immigration terms. Several towns in Massachusetts have requested this change, but none have had legislation passed. Again, thanks for understanding.
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https://malegislature.gov/ |
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2011/03/introducing-voices-of-franklin.html
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Voices of Franklin: KP Sompally calls for Inclusive Voting Rights for local elections |
Monday, June 17, 2024
Voices of Franklin: The Lenzi's argument against the BJ's liquor license request
BJ’s will tell you they want an upgrade to a full liquor license, as their customers are asking for it. In our opinion, this request is because they can’t compete without it. You may recall the Council received a request from Dacey’s Market to also upgrade to a full liquor license. That liquor license was approved and since sold. The market is changing; if Franklin Liquors cannot object to a license on grounds of competition, how can BJ’s be approved for saying they can’t compete without it?
We have 4 “box” stores, Shaws, Big Y, Stop Shop, and BJ’s. Three of the four already have beer and wine. Please look at all the towns around us. NONE have even had beer and wine and only Trader Joes in Foxboro has liquor. Bellingham, Norfolk, Medway, Millis, Wrentham, Milford, Foxboro, Walpole have no big box stores with beer and wine. We are already very unique in allowing box stores to sell beer and wine.
For that you must think of the safety of the community. People that don’t drink, those affected by alcoholism, and those who don’t want to expose their children to alcohol don’t need to and won’t go into a liquor store such as Franklin Liquors. Those same people must go into a box store to purchase essential daily supplies. This will increase exposure. Please also think about workers in these stores- many underage employees will now be exposed significantly more. Look for yourself how the box stores display and stock products all around the store and in uncontrolled areas.
BJ’s currently sells beer and wine, so this will not prevent the sale of alcohol at the store. You will prevent them from increasing exposure by not allowing a full alcohol license. As a corporation they also have the option to pursue this request in many of their other stores in Massachusetts: this isn’t their only store to expand in. Here are some resources for you to see other towns who have denied supermarkets, and BJ’s in the past.
- BJ's Liquor License Bid In Framingham Sparks Opposition https://patch.com/massachusetts/framingham/bjs-liquor-license-bid-framingham-sparks-opposition
- No Liquor License For BJ's In Framingham, Board Decides https://patch.com/massachusetts/framingham/framingham-denies-bjs-liquor-license-transfer
- BJ's denied liquor license by Plymouth selectmen https://www.wickedlocal.com/story/old-colony-memorial/2016/02/10/bj-s-denied-liquor-license/32544906007/
- Stop And Shop Denied - A transfer request denied in Harwich https://www.connelllawoffices.com/stop-shop-denied-a-liquor-license-but-vows-an-appeal/
- And follow up after denial - Stop & Shop withdraws alcohol license request - “He added that the town and its residents clearly didn't want the supermarket to be able to sell liquor, and that the store, which already sells liquor in three of its other stores across the state, should look elsewhere.” https://www.capecodtimes.com/story/news/2012/09/19/stop-shop-withdraws-alcohol-license/49401249007/
- “That members of the sober community might be unnecessarily tempted by the alcoholic offerings,” “Board member Ed Abrahams added that he had voted to give Big Y the all-alcohol license a few years ago and now regrets it. “https://theberkshireedge.com/as-selectboard-airs-concerns-about-big-y-price-chopper-liquor-license-denied/
• Great Exposure and Limited Control of Alcohol• Franklin Unique Box Store Licenses• The Use of Can’t Compete Requests• Other Towns Having Denied OR Regretted These Requests• BJ’s Already Has Beer/Wine-Not Preventing them from selling alcohol• Franklin Already Has Alcohol Exposure In 3 of 4 Big Box Stores- IF you approve the other 2 box stores will want upgrade to full liquor• Support of the growing “shop small” movement in Franklin
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2011/03/introducing-voices-of-franklin.html
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Voices of Franklin: The Lenzi's argument against the BJ's liquor license request |
Sunday, June 16, 2024
Voices of Franklin: Ruthann O'Sullivan writes a letter to the Town Council
- Town Administrator, Jamie Hellen, present four options to reduce the municipal side of the town budget ($1 million, $2 million, $3 million, $4 million) to allocate to FPS and help stabilize the district, and be presented at your next public meeting.
- The Town Council vote to put another override on the November ballot for the upcoming presidential election.
- The Town's Charter be amended to define an objective percentage of around 65% of the town's total revenue for annual allocations to the School Operating budget in perpetuity (budget line 300).
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2011/03/introducing-voices-of-franklin.html
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Voices of Franklin: Ruthann O'Sullivan writes a letter to the Town Council |