Be aware of dark patterns - Video

To be good consumers of information on the internet, we need to be aware of dark patterns: 

"Dark Patterns are tricks used in websites and apps that make you buy or sign up for things that you didn't mean to. The purpose of this site is to spread awareness and to shame companies that use them."

Quote shared from the home page of Dark Patterns  https://darkpatterns.org/


Nerdwriter posted this recent 7 minute video explanation of dark patterns (note he does do a promo at the end as he supports himself via ads and donations via Patreon. His videos are really good so going all the way until the ad sell is worth it!): 




Check out the types of dark patterns:  https://darkpatterns.org/types-of-dark-pattern

If you have found a dark pattern and want to share, you can add it to the dark pattern website listing:  https://darkpatterns.org/

Harry Brignull provides a 30 minute version on dark patterns:

Economic Development Committee (EDC) - Agenda - Feb 21, 2018

Economic Development Committee (EDC) Meeting

Wednesday February 21, 2018

6:00 PM

Municipal Building 355 East Central Street 

Room 205

Agenda

1. Temporary Signs
2. Parking surrounding the downtown
3. Commercial I Parking Regulations
4. Commercial I Dimensional Regulations
5. Multi-Family Housing in General Residential V and Commercial I
6. Review of R7 - Generally
7. Review of over 55- Generally


Additional details on these topics can be found in the document for the Jan 31 meeting agenda  http://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/edc_agenda.pdf


Who are the members of the EDC?

• Thomas Mercer - Chair
• Eamon McCarthy Earls
• Glenn Jones
• Melanie Hamblen

More on the Town Council subcommittee can be found here

http://www.franklinma.gov/economic-development-subcommittee

example of temporary signs frequently seen at King and Summer Sts

"she believes the post office actually created the United States of America"

One of the podcasts I listen to recently covered the book by Winifred Gallagher who "believes the post office actually created the United States of America". Ben Franklin is referenced as a significant contributor to the Post Office.

"For thousands of years, governments have devised ways of sending communications. But for most of history, these systems were used only by a small elite. The postal system of colonial America was much the same. The Crown’s post was established by the English monarchy and used primarily for communications between the colonies and England. 

For a while, the colonies themselves weren’t that interested in communicating with each other. They were, like fractious siblings, only seeking the attention of Mother England. And if you were a commoner in the colonies you also didn’t use the Crown’s post, you handed your message to a traveler and asked them to take it as far as they could and then pass it on. 

Benjamin Franklin, one of the early postmasters for the Crown, traveled to every colony to make improvements in the system. As he did so, he began to see the colonies differently. In 1754, at a meeting of colonial representatives in Albany, New York, Franklin proposed a plan for uniting the colonies and electing their own representatives rather than having them appointed by the Crown. Franklin’s idea didn’t go anywhere at the time.

Continue reading the article online
http://99percentinvisible.org/episode/the-revolutionary-post/

Listen to the podcast via iTunes
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/99-invisible/id394775318#

1847 United States postage stamp of Benjamin Franklin denominated 5 cents

The link to Winifred's book on Amazon
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1594205000/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1594205000&linkCode=as2&tag=99pi-20&linkId=d778a76a74ef5abb5e03b41fd136c020

How does Franklin consider itself?

The downtown traffic flow has been redesigned. Before we go and create another charter commission to review how we operate as a government, let's spend some time designing our flag. 

Yes, Franklin does not have a flag, or if we do, I have not seen it. We have a seal, which is prominently used where we could use the principles of design from a flag.

What are the design principles of a flag?

I am glad you asked, there are five:

1. Keep It Simple (The flag should be so simple that a child can draw it from memory)
2. Use Meaningful Symbolism (The flag’s images, colors, or patterns should relate to what it symbolizes)
3. Use 2 to 3 Basic Colors (Limit the number of colors on the flag to three, which contrast well and come from the standard color set)
4. No Lettering or Seals (Never use writing of any kind or an organization’s seal)
5. Be Distinctive or Be Related (Avoid duplicating other flags, but use similarities to show connections)

And from the TED Talk below:

"As we move more and more into cities, the city flag will become not just a symbol of that city as a place, but also it could become a symbol of how that city considers design itself, especially today, as the populace is becoming more design-aware. And I think design awareness is at an all-time high. A well-designed flag could be seen as an indicator of how a city considers all of its design systems: its public transit, its parks, its signage. It might seem frivolous, but it's not. 

16:08 - TK: Often when city leaders say, "We have more important things to do than worry about a city flag," my response is, "If you had a great city flag, you would have a banner for people to rally under to face those more important things."

Where did the flag idea come from? 
A relisten of this TED talk:

"Roman Mars is obsessed with flags — and after you watch this talk, you might be, too. These ubiquitous symbols of civic pride are often designed, well, pretty terribly. But they don't have to be. In this surprising and hilarious talk about vexillology — the study of flags — Mars reveals the five basic principles of flag design and shows why he believes they can be applied to just about anything."

Who is Roman Mars?  http://www.ted.com/speakers/roman_mars

more on flag design

For more on flag design
http://99percentinvisible.org/article/vexillology-revisited-fixing-worst-civic-flag-designs-america/

Are you confused by the shared lane markings (SLM) or 'sharrows" now appearing on Franklin roads?

Get used to recognizing these, we are likely to see more of them.

"Shared Lane Markings (SLMs), or “sharrows,” are road markings used to indicate a shared lane environment for bicycles and automobiles. Among other benefits shared lane markings reinforce the legitimacy of bicycle traffic on the street, recommend proper bicyclist positioning, and may be configured to offer directional and wayfinding guidance. 

the bicycle markings seem to be causing some confusion for drivers

The shared lane marking is a pavement marking with a variety of uses to support a complete bikeway network; it is not a facility type and should not be considered a substitute for bike lanes, cycle tracks, or other separation treatments where these types of facilities are otherwise warranted or space permits. The MUTCD outlines guidance for shared lane markings in section 9C.07."

• Continue reading the article

http://nacto.org/publication/urban-bikeway-design-guide/bikeway-signing-marking/shared-lane-markings/

"On November 7, 2015, the 80th birthday of the MUTCD, and throughout the year when you see an easy-to-read sign, a bright edgeline marking on a foggy night, the countdown timer at a crosswalk, or a well-placed bike lane, take a moment to reflect on the eighty years of progress and innovation that the MUTCD embodies. This progress has resulted in safer, more efficient travel on our Nation's roads. 

Over the years, the MUTCD has unknowingly become the traveler's best friend and silent companion, guiding us on our way along the streets, bikeways, back roads, and highways. As the direct means of communication with the traveler, traffic control devices speak to us softly, yet effectively and authoritatively. From glass “cat’s-eye” reflectors to glass beads to microprismatic sheeting, nighttime sign visibility has advanced significantly. Active devices at rail crossings save lives by giving us a positive message about train traffic. And countdown timers on pedestrian signals help us cross a busy street. 

So the next time you hit the pavement, the path, or the pedals, you can be sure that the MUTCD, through our dedicated professionals who make complex decisions on what devices to install, will help you get where you want to go safely, efficiently, and comfortably! The MUTCD…it's all about you!"

• For the full set of guidelines on traffic markings  http://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/

RIP - Thomas Moseley

Thomas was the founder of the Moseley Group operating in Franklin since 1989.

Thomas passed away on Wednesday, March 16, 2016. Thomas was a resident of Weston, Massachusetts at the time of his passing. He was married to Suzanne. 

Visiting hours at the George F Doherty Sons Funeral Home 477 Washington St Rt.16 Wellesley Ma on Friday March 25th from 3-7pm and a Memorial service will be held on Saturday March 26th at 3pm in the funeral home. 

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Tomâs memory to the Westminster School at 995 Hop Meadow Street Simsbury Ct 06070.

You can view his full obituary
http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/name/thomas-moseley-obituary?pid=1000000178250329

He did not get to see the new signs put up recently at Mosley Mills

Moseley Mill sign on Hayward St

Moseley Mill sign along RT 140

For more about the Moseley Group check their webpage  http://www.moseleycorp.com/

Annual Report - 2015: Design Review Commission

The Design Review Commission (DRC) is a Committee comprised of 5 regular members and 2 alternate members. All are residents and volunteers who are appointed by the Town. The Committee represents Citizen interests and strives to ensure new developments and sign installations enhance the appearance of the Town while meeting Town codes and bylaws. This Committee has approval authority on signage and recommendation input to the Planning Board on Site Plans as to landscaping and lighting and Building Plans as to exterior design, colors and materials.

The Commission meets twice monthly and has addressed numerous projects and sign applications this past fiscal year. The Commission is currently composed of Mark Fitzgerald, Chair, Chris Baryluk, Nancy Coleman, Anna Moses, and Claudine Silverman, as well as associate members, Doug Newton and Kate Harrington.

This past fiscal year, the Commission reviewed and addressed several Site Plans as to landscaping and lighting and exterior Building Plans as to elevations, design, colors and materials. Reviews included projects such as the Midas Store site on West Central, Planet Chrysler-Jeep-DodgeRam renovations and expansion, and Oteri Funeral Home, as well as several other, smaller projects. In addition sign applications were received, hearings held and decisions issued for 50 signs during the past fiscal year.

Meetings are held at the Franklin Municipal Building, 355 East Central Street, Room 205, at 7:00 p.m., on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month. Meeting times, dates and agendas are posted at the Town Clerk’s Office.

Respectfully submitted,
Mark Fitzgerald, Chair

• For additional info on the Design Review Commission, the page can be found 

http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Planning/design

• Definitions applicable to the sign bylaw

http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Planning/designdocuments/definitions.pdf

• The sign bylaw

http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Planning/designdocuments/signbylaw.pdf

The new FHS sign includes a digital sign that is off as it does not conform with the current bylaws

-----------

"Prior to November 1 of each year, the Town Clerk shall cause to be prepared and made available to the inhabitants of the Town an annual report for the preceding fiscal year which shall include: the annual Town budget, the reports of all Town officers, the records of all Town Council bylaw amendments and resolutions, an abstract of births, marriages and deaths, and the wages, salaries, or other compensation of all Town employees." [Added 5-2-2012 by Bylaw Amendment 12-681]

http://ecode360.com/10432729?highlight=annual%20report,reports,annual,report#10432729

Shared from the full and complete PDF version of the Town of Franklin Annual Report for 2015

http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Clerk/annual/2015report.pdf

Creating a Haven: Capturing the Spirit of Nature to Enhance your Home Design

Creating a Haven
Capturing the Spirit of Nature to Enhance your Home Design

A Presentation by Elizabeth Randall, Elizabeth Randall Interior Designs

Nature is all around us, but too often we don’t invite it in to our homes. Learn how to incorporate natural elements in your home to create a more soothing and pleasant space. Really looking at nature up close makes you stop and see a little more clearly, and provides times of rest and meditation. 

This presentation will present many images showing easy and inexpensive ways to create oases. Whether incorporating plants, sunlight, colors, water features or food displays, there are wonderful opportunities to welcome nature in. Please join us for an hour of creative ideas, guaranteed to have you stopping to smell the roses (and lilacs) just a little bit more!

Weds, Dec 2  -   7:00 PM

What you should know about design! (video)

"Roman Mars is obsessed with flags — and after you watch this talk, you might be, too. These ubiquitous symbols of civic pride are often designed, well, pretty terribly. But they don't have to be. In this surprising and hilarious talk about vexillology — the study of flags — Mars reveals the five basic principles of flag design and shows why he believes they can be applied to just about anything."

For more about "Good Flags, Bad Flags"
http://vexillology.wikia.com/wiki/Appendix:_Good_flags,_bad_flags

For more about 99% Invincible, Roman Mars podcast on design
http://99percentinvisible.org/

Molloy's new sign

The smiley face sign has gone to wherever those old signs may go.



A smaller version of the smile remains on the Molloy's Service Center sign.

All the gas pumps were replaced and are not yet operational.

New Franklin High School: Educational Design Features

The School Building Committee delivered this presentation at the School Committee meeting on Tuesday, Feb 28, 2012.

New Franklin High School: Educational Design Features - Revised

Note: this is an update version of the presentation!

As soon as the video of the meeting is available, it will be linked to here.

High School Building Project - new design photos

A few additional design photos showing the proposed 'model school' for Franklin High School are now available:



These were originally posted to the Franklin School Building Committee webpage


Additional information on the high school building project is all collected here
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2011/12/collection-high-school-building-project.html


Note: email subscribers will need to click through to Franklin Matters to view the photos or visit Franklin Matters on Facebook

"Sign, sign, everywhere a sign"

"Sign, sign, everywhere a sign 

Blockin' out the scenery, breakin' my mind 

Do this, don't do that, can't you read the sign?"

http://www.oldielyrics.com/lyrics/five_man_electrical_band/signs.html


One proposed by-law change starting to work through the process this week will affect what we see all around Franklin. The Planning and Community Development Dept has already reworked the regulations and updated the definitions to help the discussions around what it will mean.

The Town Council will refer it to the Planning Board where they will review, take input during a public hearing and after making potential adjustments send it back to the Town Council. Back at the Town Council, there will be two readings (and associated discussions) before it is voted on.

The section from the Town Council agenda highlighting changes:

Changes from Previous Bylaw 

Enforcement and Pre-existing Signs 

The proposed Sign Bylaw now clearly defines the Building Commissioner as the entity who will
permit all signs, oversee installation, ensure compliance and remove non-compliant signs,
regulate their maintenance, and initiate penalties. Pre-existing signs are grandfathered unless
they were being displayed in violation of the existing Sign Bylaw. Pre-existing signs will remain
as such until a new sign is displayed or any modification to the existing signage is made, then it
must conform to the new Sign Bylaw. 

The proposed Bylaw also addresses many issues that the previous Bylaw left unaddressed.
One such issue the Bylaw now clearly defines is the role and responsibilities of the Design
Review Commission. In addition, the proposed Sign Bylaw now address a more defined
process for appeal of Design Review Commission decisions or appeals of a decision issued by
the Building Commissioner. 

Temporary Signs 

The current Sign Bylaw addresses several types of temporary signs and the extent to which
they are allowed. The proposed Bylaw clearly prohibits most temporary signs except real estate signs, political signs and non-profits if displayed in Municipal sign displays located throughout the Town. New business owners would be permitted to display one temporary sign for up to 30 days during the opening of the business.

Where did those lyrics come from? Enjoy!




The proposed bylaw can be found on beginning on page 10 of the document here
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_CouncilAgendas/2012%20docs/011812.pdf

Franklin, MA: Design Review Commission

As Franklin continues to grow, many signs, buildings and new developments are constantly being constructed. But, do all of them add to the beauty and charm of our town? Sometimes the initial designs are not what the town needs. 

How does the town help guide people to a better solution for the town? The Design Review Commission advises applicants on their submissions, encouraging applicants to revise their designs to enhance the New England character of our Town, in addition to approving signage.

Additional information on the Design Review Commission and it role can be found on the Franklin website here
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Planning/design

The 2011 Annual Report also provides some info on page 132 (of the printed version or Page 138 for the PDF)
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Clerk/annual/Desktop/FRANKLIN%202001%20TR-WEB%20COPY.pdf

Franklin, MA: Design Review Guidelines

Continuing the series on the Franklin, MA Planning process:

These design guidelines have been prepared to assist business and property owners in protecting and enhancing the design character of commercial and industrial areas in the Town of Franklin. This handbook is the result of a collective effort by Town officials, members of the Design Review Commission (DRC) and the local design community, and planning consultants. Its guiding principles are based on a general belief that high quality of design and construction contribute to enhance the economic vitality of business districts, and improve the overall quality of living.

The guidelines will be used by the DRC as a basis for the review and approval of new projects,  improvements, and additions to existing buildings. They are also intended as a source of helpful information and ideas for owners, designers and builders.

This document is divided into five parts:

• Part I describes the general purpose and contents of the handbook and includes brief recounts of the Town’s historic background, and the history of the design review process. It also summarizes the process and requirements for application for design review and approval.
• Part II contains site and building guidelines of general application, organized by topics.
• Part III contains site and building guidelines that specifically apply to downtown Franklin, the commercial corridors outside of the downtown area, or “big box” development. These guidelines are to be applied in addition to the general guidelines listed on Part II.
• Part IV focuses on signage and sign requirements.
• Part V includes appendices with further information and resource materials.

The full guideline document can be found on the Town website here (PDF). Note: it is a large document and will take sometime to download.

Franklin, MA: Design Review Commission

The Design Review Commission (DRC) has had numerous projects come before them this year. The Commission is currently composed of Jennifer Peters, Chair; Lenley Rafuse, Vice-Chair; Richard Tobin, Jr., Jill Bedoya and James Esterbrook, as well as associate members, Mark Fitzgerald and Robin Stamp.

This past year, the Commission reviewed several Site Plans as to landscaping and lighting and Building Plans as to elevations, colors and materials, including, the Franklin Housing Authority's Plain Street facility; renovations to the 12-36 East Central Street block; Walgreen's Pharmacy; the landscaping and lighting added to the area between 12-36 East Central Street and Summer Street. Signage and awnings were reviewed and approved for many additional locations, including the above, as well as Rockland Trust, Daddario's Hardware and many more throughout the year.

Work on the Town's new sign by-law has been in progress throughout the year and hopefully will be presented to the Town Council prior to the year end.

Meetings are held at the Franklin Municipal Building, Room 205, 355 East Central Street, at 7:00 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month. Meeting times and dates are posted at the Town Clerk’s Office. Meetings are usually less than an hour and a half in length.

Respectfully submitted,
Jennifer Peters, Chair
Design Review Commission

From the 2009 Town of Franklin Annual Report. This is available in a printed version at the Municipal Building or online at the Town website here.




This post was originally made on Franklin Matters on December 30, 2009.



Franklin, MA

Franklin, MA: Design Review Commission

The Design Review Commission (DRC) has had numerous projects come before them this year. The Commission is currently composed of Jennifer Peters, Chair; Lenley Rafuse, Vice-Chair; Richard Tobin, Jr., Jill Bedoya and James Esterbrook, as well as associate members, Mark Fitzgerald and Robin Stamp.

This past year, the Commission reviewed several Site Plans as to landscaping and lighting and Building Plans as to elevations, colors and materials, including, the Franklin Housing Authority's Plain Street facility; renovations to the 12-36 East Central Street block; Walgreen's Pharmacy; the landscaping and lighting added to the area between 12-36 East Central Street and Summer Street. Signage and awnings were reviewed and approved for many additional locations, including the above, as well as Rockland Trust, Daddario's Hardware and many more throughout the year.

Work on the Town's new sign by-law has been in progress throughout the year and hopefully will be presented to the Town Council prior to the year end.

Meetings are held at the Franklin Municipal Building, Room 205, 355 East Central Street, at 7:00 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month. Meeting times and dates are posted at the Town Clerk’s Office. Meetings are usually less than an hour and a half in length.

Respectfully submitted,
Jennifer Peters, Chair
Design Review Commission

From the 2009 Town of Franklin Annual Report. This is available in a printed version at the Municipal Building or online at the Town website here.

Building Committee suggestion

As the Building Committee looks into either renovating or building a new high school, as well as what work should be done on the other three older school buildings (Davis-Thayer, Parmenter, and Kennedy), this slideshow should be something to keep in mind.

What kind of design will foster the education environment to prepare our children for a future that is unknown?

School Design: Be the Change... (tags: school design)

What do you think?

Industry: CPDocks - compact cell phone charger

In our continuing series on the companies who do business here in Franklin, we find this press release:

New Plug-in-Shelf Portable Cell Phone Charging Station Eliminates Cell Phone Clutter

The clutter from cell phones and cell phone charger cords is increasing due to the growing number of cell phone users in the home. The CP Docks brand of cell phone charging stations introduces a new portable unit, the Plug-in-Shelf. It joins the EZ Mount home organizer model introduced last year at www.cpdocks.com. The Plug-in-Shelf Cell Phone Charging Station is a convenient new cell phone accessory that simply plugs into any electrical outlet. When you travel, just unplug and go!

Franklin, MA (PRWEB) December 16, 2008 -- CP Docks introduces its latest cell phone charging station, the new, portable Plug-in-Shelf model, a product that eliminates the tangle of cell phone charger cord clutter from counters and tables. When you need to travel, simply unplug the unit and take your charger and charging station with you!

The Plug-in-Shelf cell phone accessory is a clever problem solver that allows cell phones, chargers and cords to be placed on a small convenient station that plugs into any electrical outlet in your home. The unit consists of a shelf for the phone, a cord holder to hide the charging cord and a unique plug adapter to plug in your existing charger. There is no need to store the charger when not in use since it can always stay with the charging station, even when you travel.

Manufactured from durable plastic with a skid-free pad to hold the phone or PDA, the Plug-in-Shelf plugs into any outlet and keeps your charger and cell phone in one place. No storing and looking for your charger and best of all, no more messy charger cords laying on your kitchen counter! The Plug-in-Shelf is $12.95 and available at www.cpdocks.com. with free first class shipping.

Professional home organizers have discovered the CP Docks cell phone chargers. Geralin Thomas, a professional organizer from North Carolina, recently learned about the units and put them in her own home.

My kitchen counter space had disappeared with the mess of cell phone cords from my husband and my two teenagers. It seemed I was always pushing them out of the way ... the EZ Mount solved my problems -- and the kids can finally find their car keys!

I am a contractor who can get a call in the middle of the night. I keep my EZ Mount next to my bed. The phone acts as a night light while charging and it is handy if I get a late night call. A great product!

"Recently, I discovered the Plug-in-shelf and I'm impressed! It's a gizmo that requires no learning curve, no batteries and best of all, it is inexpensive. This product actually conquers and cures countertop-cord-confusion. Clients love them. Professional Organizers love them. Geeks love them. Families love them. I appreciate the way one intelligently designed little thing can change the entire landscape of a room. If your counter tops are covered with cords from iPods, mobile phones, digital cameras, computer cables, etc. I suggest the Plug-in-Shelf or EZ Mount Cell Phone Charging Stations."--Geralin Thomas, Metropolitan Organizing, www.metropolitanorganizing.com

The benefits of the Plug-in-Shelf charging station include:

• A permanent location for your cell phone and charger.
• Uses your existing cell phone charger.
• No more need to store your charger when not in use.
• No more looking for your charger when you need to charge your phone.
• Your cell phone is always charged and ready to use.
• Keeps your tables and counters clear of messy charging cords.
• Protects your phone from spills and damage.
• It makes the perfect holiday gift.

Many other customers have discovered the benefits of the CP Docks line of cell phone charging stations.

"My kitchen counter space had disappeared with the mess of cell phone cords from my husband and my two teenagers. It seemed I was always pushing them out of the way ... the EZ Mount solved my problems -- and the kids can finally find their car keys!" -- Carol, MN

"The Plug-in-Shelf works great for me. I am getting an extra one for my fiancb-Wendy, MI

"I am a contractor who can get a call in the middle of the night. I keep my EZ Mount next to my bed. The phone acts as a night light while charging and it is handy if I get a late night call. A great product!" -- Dennis, MA

"I love it! It would be a great idea for a gift." -- Nancy, NH

The portable Plug-in-Shelf, along with the EZ Mount Charging Station, which features a built-in key hook, is now available online at www.cpdocks.com. You now have two great solutions to keep your home organized and clear of the tangle of cell phone charging cords.