What's happening at the Library in April 2025 ??

Library Hours

The Library’s hours are Monday through Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Sundays 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Library will be closed Sunday April 20th and Monday April 21st for the Easter Holiday and Patriot’s Day.

 

Franklin Public Library’s 2025 Reading Challenge!

April: Lend a Hand!

Welcome to the Franklin Public Library's second Annual Reading Challenge! For each monthly prompt that you complete and submit on time you will receive a Free Book Coupon that's good at the library's Book Sale. Submissions MUST be submitted by the last day of each month in order to qualify for that month's Free Book Coupon. For complete details and to sign-up, visit our website! Grand prizes made possible by the Friends of the Franklin Library!

Franklin Public Library VITA: Volunteer Income Tax Assistance

Open Saturdays from 9:30 to 4:00 PM

The IRS's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free tax return preparation to qualified individuals. Qualified individuals generally includes: People who generally make $68,000 or less, Persons with disabilities; and Limited English-speaking taxpayers. This is a walk in site with potential wait times.

We can also help you file and extension if you need more time to finalize your taxes.

Learn more at the Library Web Page under adult services or email site coordinator Mitzi Gousie at mgousie@minlib.net

ESL & Adult Literacy Program

The Franklin Public Library has started an English as a Second Language and Adult Literacy Program to serve Franklin and its surrounding communities.  Volunteers and students do not need to be Franklin residents. If interested, fill out the registration form on the library’s website.

Special Events for Kids

Parody Playhouse Concert! Saturday, April 5th @ 10:30AM

Join us for a special kid-friendly spin on your favorite musical hits! Parody Playhouse features child-appropriate parodies of popular songs by a range of artists, which are educational and entertaining. Themes like learning shapes, colors, emotions, parts of the body, animals, and even social-emotional learning themes! It's sure to be a blast!

Ed Popielarczyk Magic Show! Monday, April 7th @ 1:00PM

Join us as we welcome Ed Popielarczyk for a one-of-a-kind magic show that is guaranteed to leave the whole family impressed!

Teddy Bear Workshop! Friday, February 21st @ 1:00PM AND 2:00PM

Registration Required! 

Come to the library and make your very own teddy bear - no sewing needed! Each child will get to hand-stuff their new teddy bear, then make a wish on a rainbow star before tucking it safely inside their new friend! All materials will be provided! *Limit 1 bear per child* Please note - we will be making the same teddy bear that was made at our February Teddy Bear Workshop.

Fairytale Fun! Saturday, April 19th @ 10:30AM

When will your life begin? Today! Join us for a special royal visit from a princess who spent 18 years living in a tower! There will be singing, dancing, interactive storytelling and a photo opportunity with each guest!

Local Hero Storytime! Tuesday, April 22nd @ 10:30AM

Join the library and our friends from the Franklin Fire Department and Franklin Police Department for a special storytime celebrating our local heroes!  Be prepared for fun and surprises!

The BenAnna Band! Wednesday, April 23rd @ 10:30AM

Join us for this super-fun, high energy, interactive music concert that is sure to have the whole family up dancing!

Petting Zoo with Records and Burpee! Wednesday, April 23rd @ 1:00PM

This fun and educational program brings goats, sheep, alpacas, and silkie chickens to pet and feed, as well as colorful macaws to admire!

Stuffed Animal Sleepover! Wednesday, April 23rd @ 6:00PM

What kind of trouble can a bunch of stuffed animals cause in an empty library? Here’s our chance to find out! Bring one of your favorite stuffed friends to the library for a cozy storytime, then leave them in our care for the evening! When you pick your friend up on Thursday, see what antics they might have caused!

Animal Affair! Thursday, April 24th @ 10:00AM

Make some new furry or feathered friends when the Animal Affair Traveling Petting Zoo visits the Franklin Public Library!  Everyone is welcome to pet, brush, feed, hold, and play with the animals! Participants are taught the proper way to hold and handle the animals.  Animal Affair will be bringing ducks, chickens, goats, pigs and rabbits!

Toe Jam Puppet Band! Friday, April 25th @ 10:30AM

Join the Toe Jam Puppet Band for a rockin' concert at the Franklin Public Library! This hilarious show is sure to have the whole family laughing along!

Special Events for Teens

Afterschool Studios! Tuesday, April 22nd @ 4:00PM

Registration Required!

It feels like a perfect night to do some art! Join Miss Lily in painting you very own Mirrorball while listening to some Taylor Swift tunes! This program is best suited for students ages 10 through 18. All materials will be provided.

Special Events for Adults

Tax Talk: Personal & Entrepreneur Workshop, Saturday April 19th @ 3:30PM

Benjamin Franklin is quoted as saying, "In this world, nothing can be certain except death and taxes." With the current Tax season wrapping up, for those of us who did not file for an extension, get ahead of next year to maximize your deductions and credits, learn about free filing methods available in Massachusetts and much more! This is the perfect opportunity for anyone who has thought, "why don't they teach taxes in school?!" In the case of a government shutdown this program may be cancelled. Please check the library calendar for updates.

Is the Future of Humanities and Libraries Digital?, Tuesday April 22nd @ 6:30PM

Join us in welcoming guest speaker Dr. John Woitkowitz, Head of the Digital Labs at the Germany’s Berlin State Library (SBB), as we discuss the future of humanities and libraries in the digital age highlighting examples from the SBB.

JUNTO Non Fiction Book Club, Thursday, April 24th @ 6:30PM

The JUNTO (from the Spanish junta or assembly) was a club for mutual improvement established in 1727 by Benjamin Franklin. Franklin Public Library’s JUNTO Book Club is a place to discuss a book of the month and share our insights from the book and how we might apply the information to local issues! In recognition of Arab-American Heritage Month, the April book is Six days of War by Michael B. Oren! Get a physical or digital copy through the Library Catalog!

Special Events for All Ages

Eid Celebration! Saturday, April 5th @ 3:00PM

Families! Join us for a special celebration of Eid, complete with crafts, music, snacks, and more! For questions/to get involved, email Caleigh at ckeating@minlib.net!

Spring Health Fair, Wednesday, April 9th @ 3:30PM

The Franklin Public Library and Franklin Health Department invite everyone to enjoy Local Vendors, Health Services, Refreshments, Face Painting, Health Screenings, Activities, Kids Zone, & Much More!

Boston Typewriter Orchestra Free Concert! Saturday, April 12th @ 3:00 PM

It’s time for different type of music in a whole new key! The Boston Typewriter Orchestra (BTO) is a collective performance of rhythmic typewriter manipulation. Enjoy music, comedy, and satire while exploring the definition of ‘musical instrument’. Funding for this program is provided by The Franklin Cultural District, a local agency funded by Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.

Second Annual Honey Tasting, April 19th @ 2:00 PM

Bee-lieve it or not, there are HUNDREDS of varieties of honey! This buzz worthy treat is a cornerstone of Local agriculture and we’re going to taste the difference! We’ll start with a brief talk on honey making and history in Massachusetts followed by a tasting of local &flavored honeys and the grocery store bear. Bee sure to stay to the end to be entered in a prize drawing!

This event is made possible by the support of The Friends of the Franklin Library!

Dean Vocal Ensemble Concert: "Folk Princess" Tuesday, April 22 @1:00PM

Your favorite Disney hits paired with choruses and folk songs of the real (and unreal) cultures they come from. This includes a spinning song originally published in Lowell MA in 1841, the oldest Secular song ever written (sung by special guest and real Viking reenactor Elyssa Björkman), and Sea Shanties galore! Our 7 dwarves might even sing your favorite Tolkien poetry—Not to mention the vocal highlights of Ariel, Aurora, Snow-White, and of course Elsa. This program truly has something for all ages!

Flower Slime Friday, April 25th @ 2:00PM

Make your very own slime at the library!

Spring Carnival! Saturday, April 26th @ 1:00PM

Join us for an epic afternoon of fun for the whole family! Enjoy a variety of carnival games, crafts, snacks, and more!

Franklin Library Book Sale

Friday, April 11th, 1:00-5:00pm.  Saturday, April 11th, 9:00am to 12:00 Noon

All books are just one dollar!

Bag Sale - $5 A Bag—Saturday, April 12th, from 1:00-4:00pm

Come fill a brown bag with all the books you can!

Town of Franklin Announces Launch of New Website

Enhancing Citizen and Government Communication & Incorporating New Town Logo, Tagline

The Town of Franklin is pleased to announce that it has launched its new website (https://www.franklinma.gov).

“As part of our biennial town goals, I am excited to announce the launch of the Town’s new website”, said Town Administrator Jamie Hellen. “The new site will help community members stay connected to town resources, accurate and timely news, and serve as a one-stop for all official town information.”

 

Town of Franklin Announces Launch of New Website 

The website went live on Tuesday, January 21, 2025 at noon. The project team has taken the last week to work out some imperfections on the site and respond to user feedback, as residents begin to utilize the site. In conjunction with the Town Branding Project which created a new Town of Franklin logo and tagline, the project team worked on the website redesign process over the last eight months with website developer CivicPlus, a leading government website provider. 

The website now has additional mobile-responsive functionalities and enhanced accessibility features, as well as a cleaner, easier layout to help visitors better navigate the site. CivicPlus’ content management system will allow Franklin the ability to increase resident engagement by offering more dynamic content and more timely news through its set of robust features, well-designed layout, accessibility and functionality.

“It is our hope that with the new website the Town of Franklin will be able to increase its community engagement and enhance the communication between residents and the local government.” said Tom Mercer, Chair of the Town Council. “One notable area is a Town Budget website with up to date information on the town budget process and archival information for residents to have all of the information they need as the community discusses the FY26 Budget.”

Through featured modules on the new site, citizens will be able to view agendas and minutes, report a concern, view job and volunteer opportunities, and sign up for notifications more easily. To sign up to receive notifications from the Town, please visit the Town website at https://www.franklinma.gov and click the "Notify Me" button on the left side of the page. Users must create an account to receive notifications, and once the account is validated users will be able to log in and select what notifications they would prefer to receive. 

“The Town encourages residents to assess the new site and share observations with the Town Administrator’s office, " said Deputy Town Administrator Amy Frigulietti. “Looking forward, we aim to use the new website as a tool that will grow and evolve to meet the needs of the community. We ask users to check back frequently for new information and features.”

While the Town’s official seal will remain an image of Benjamin Franklin with his well known quote, “Industry Need Not Wish”, the website promotes the new Town logo and tagline - “The First of Many” - a nod to Franklin’s history as the first town named after Benjamin Franklin, the first town to have a public lending library and the birthplace of public education, through Franklin native Horace Mann. This slogan is also an acknowledgment of Franklin’s pursuit to be a leader - with excellent public schools and first rate public safety.

Shared from -> https://www.franklinma.gov/civicalerts.aspx?AID=36

Franklin Reading Specialist Presents Three Sessions at NCTE

Superintendent Lucas Giguere is pleased to share that Horace Mann Middle School Reading Specialist Erin O'Leary presented three sessions during the NCTE 2024 Annual Convention held recently in Boston, sharing perspectives on English education and reading in line with the event's theme of "Heart, Hope, Humanity."

The four-day conference held by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) is the largest event of its kind for literacy educators, drawing hundreds of teachers to share ideas and discuss successful practices for inspiring the next generation of learners, thinkers, readers and writers. The event, which took place at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center, was highlighted by a keynote speech delivered by U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson.

Horace Mann Middle School Reading Specialist Erin O'Leary presents a session at the NCTE 2024 Annual Convention called "BLAST: Bringing Libraries and Schools Together." O'Leary shared how she introduced a collaborative in 2018 at Horace Mann Middle School to provide students with a part-time certified librarian on loan from the local public library. (Photo courtesy Franklin Public Schools)

The sessions presented by Reading Specialist O'Leary and the conference on a whole offered encouragement for teachers to become bold, ambitious and innovative in their efforts to share the life-changing power of literature with the next generation of readers.

"There are a lot of teachers out there with good ideas," said Reading Specialist O'Leary. "The difference between those being able to execute them and those who don't is often fear and lack of administrative support."

Reading Specialist O'Leary presented alongside Mary Giuffre, a West Bridgewater elementary school principal and her counterpart from the "Crazy Reading Ladies," a spirited duo of teacher-trainers promoting the uplifting power of reading.

From left to right, Horace Mann Middle School Reading Specialist Erin O'Leary presents a session at the NCTE 2024 Annual Convention, interviewing authors Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin, along with Mary Giuffre, a West Bridgewater elementary school principal and O'Leary's counterpart from the “Crazy Reading Ladies." (Photo courtesy Franklin Public Schools)

Their partnership as the "Crazy Reading Ladies" dates back to 2012, when the two both taught at Horace Mann Middle School. The pair started an interactive book club program called "All In!" at a time when a feature film based on "The Hunger Games" novels was about to be released in theaters, culminating in a field trip to the movies attended by 221 students.

The Crazy Reading Ladies, who are aficionados of young adult and middle-grade literature, presented a session called "Books Build Bridges," which expounded on the concept of social-emotional learning through young adult literature. Using an evidence-based social-emotional learning framework to guide a personalized approach to matching students with books to read, the program was introduced at Horace Mann Middle School after receiving a special grant in 2019. The grant allowed the Crazy Reading Ladies to spend $5,000 on books that are still being used today as part of the initiative.

"We've always known that children who are emotionally available to learn do better in school," O'Leary said. "What we didn't know was how to support the development of those critical skills. Let the books do the work. In our Massachusetts middle school, we have found that books are the best way to support social and emotional learning. The highly-individualized approach uses contemporary young adult literature to teach students about themselves and the world around them, developing their social and emotional competencies in a safe and comfortable environment."

O'Leary and Giuffre also presented a session on Bringing Libraries and Schools Together (BLAST), a collaborative introduced in 2018 at Horace Mann Middle School to provide students with a part-time certified librarian on loan from the local public library. Now, BLAST has spread to four of the district's other schools.

And the Crazy Reading Ladies also presented a session called "When History Meets Humanity: A Conversation with Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin," speaking with the co-authors of a recently published historical fiction called "The Bletchley Riddle." This session stressed the importance of reading regimens that include a healthy dose of both nonfiction and historical fiction, with Sepetys and Sheinkin sharing how their works of historical fiction are meant to open up a world full of secrets and fascinating facts.

From left to right, author Ruta Sepetys, Mary Giuffre, a West Bridgewater elementary school principal who formerly taught at Horace Mann Middle School, author Steve Sheinkin, and Horace Mann Middle School Reading Specialist Erin O'Leary. The four took part in a session called "When History Meets Humanity" at the NCTE 2024 Annual Convention held at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center. (Photo courtesy Franklin Public Schools)

"Their books are exceptionally well-researched, but they are also beloved," O'Leary said. "They turn students into readers and readers into thinkers, giving young people the courage to question historical events and decisions while nestled safely between the pages of a book."

Reading Specialist O'Leary offered a special thanks to Horace Mann Middle School Principal Rebecca Motte and Assistant Principal Jennifer Santosuosso, for supporting her work to promote a culture of literacy at Horace Mann Middle School.

"Not everyone is so lucky," O'Leary said. "Theirs is the kind of support educators dream about. They have consistently upheld and prioritized the culture of literacy I strive to build, and made me feel valued as an educator. They are thoughtful collaborators who offer the insight that helps me both reach and refine."

Fire Department Press Release on Hazmat Incident - July 9 (video)

Via the Franklin Fire Dept:

"At 8:56AM on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, the Franklin Fire Department received a fire alarm at 38 Forge Parkway. The first arriving Franklin Fire Department units were advised of a small fire which self-extinguished and a chemical leak by the building occupants.

After consulting with a chemist on site, fire companies investigated and found a smoke or vapor condition in a process room within the facility.

The building was fully evacuated, and a Tier 2 Hazardous Materials response from the Department of Fire Services was requested. Upon the Hazardous Materials Team arrival, a Tier 3 response was requested bringing 45 Hazardous Materials Technicians to the scene. 

The Hazardous Materials team made entry and was able to safely mitigate the hazard. There were no injuries during this entire event due to the great coordination among multiple agencies. The scale of the response was partly based upon the reactivity of the chemical which was determined to be Sodium Potassium.

This was an isolated incident confined to one room inside the business.

The incident was brought under control by 2pm and all crews cleared by 3:30pm.

Thank you to all of the agencies that responded including the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services State Hazardous Materials Team."

Shared from -> https://x.com/FranklinMAfire/status/1810767533206818866

Three Leading Massachusetts Human Service Providers Set to Merge

Unified agency to achieve greater impact for individuals and families facing life challenges

Advocates today announced that it will merge with its two affiliated partner agencies to create one of the most comprehensive human service providers in the state.

On July 1, 2024, Advocates, Horace Mann Educational Associates, Inc. (HMEA) and Family Continuity will become a single, unified organization operating under the Advocates name.

"Fully merging our three affiliated organizations into one cohesive agency will allow us to provide more comprehensive and coordinated services for people facing a wide range of life challenges," said Diane Gould, President and CEO, Advocates. "In addition, having one brand identity will make it easier for all community members to have access to and benefit from everything we have to offer."

 

Three Leading Massachusetts Human Service Providers Set to Merge

The merged organization will serve more than 40,000 children, adults and families in Massachusetts and Rhode Island and employ more than 2500 staff. The majority of employees are essential direct care workers.

 

"This is exciting news for all individuals and families who need the services and supports provided by these three organizations," said Jane Ryder, Commissioner, Massachusetts Department of Developmental Disabilities. "Having a single agency with a broad range of programs and a strong, visible presence will be a valuable asset to the communities across Central and Eastern Massachusetts that this larger Advocates organization will now serve."

 

Advocates provides a broad range of services for people impacted by addiction, aging, autism, brain injury, intellectual/developmental disabilities, and mental health challenges. In addition to residential and day supports, the MetroWest-based agency provides behavioral health services including outpatient counseling and residential supports, emergency psychiatric services, community justice and jail diversion programs, and integrated care management.

 

"Our organizations share the same values and have talented staff who care about the people they serve and are passionate about the work they do," said Michelle Donohue, Chief Operating Officer, HMEA. "In addition, we each possess unique strengths and expertise and see lots of potential to learn from one another."

 

HMEA brings to the merged organization increased capacity and complementary services in the areas of adult family care; shared living; family supports; day habilitation and employment; and residential programs for people with autism (ASD) and intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). HMEA's service area extends to over 110 communities in the Central, Southeastern, and Eastern regions of Massachusetts and Rhode Island and includes several well-known programs including Autism Resource Central, an Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Clinic, The Darnell School, and Tech Access of RI.

 

"I am excited about this merger because the diversity and inclusiveness of all three organizations will bring different cultures and talents together," said Teresa Nderitu, Residential Coordinator, HMEA. "Working with the direct care staff, I see expanded opportunities for teamwork, development, and growth that will allow us to enhance the creative solutions we provide to help people live better."

 

Family Continuity adds its highly respected mental health and substance use services for children, adults, and families across Eastern and Central Massachusetts to Advocates existing programs. Common services include outpatient clinics, peer supports and recovery coaching, jail diversion, and family support. Integrating Family Continuity's programs with Advocates will build long-term sustainability, promote stronger communities, further increase access to care and advance social, racial, economic, and health justice.

"The sensitivity shown by our new colleagues at Advocates and HMEA to the employees and those we serve at Family Continuity has been amazing," said Judy Donahue, Care Coordinator, Behavioral Health Partners of MetroWest & Family Continuity Community Partner Program. "The caring, thoughtful, and respectful way in which this merger process has been conducted gives me great reassurance and confidence that we will achieve great things together."

All of the services currently provided to individuals and families across all three organizations will continue. No services will be eliminated or reduced. The merger will position Advocates to better meet the challenges of the evolving human service system in order to deliver the highest quality of care.

 

"We're excited about the new opportunities we see for service expansion and innovation to meet the changing needs of the people we support and the expectations of our funders and community partners," said Gould. "Together, as one mission-driven organization, we look forward to providing thousands of individuals and families with the supports they need to lead healthy, productive, and rewarding lives."

 

For more information, please visit https://www.advocates.org/.

 

 

About Advocates

Advocates provides a broad range of services for people facing life challenges such as addiction, aging, autism, brain injury, intellectual/developmental disabilities, and mental health challenges.  With Advocates' help, more than 40,000 individuals and families living in Massachusetts and Rhode Island will find the supports they need to lead healthy, productive, and rewarding lives.  For more information, visit www.advocates.org.

Franklin Police: Moonlight Smoke Shop Break In - 04/03/24

On Wednesday, April 3, 2024 at approximately 7:38 AM, the Metacomet Emergency Communication Center (MECC) received a call for a possible break in at the Moonlight Smoke Shop located at 447 East Central Street.

Moonlight Smoke Shop Break In

Upon officers’ arrival they observed the glass on the front door had been smashed and entry made. A witness reported a blue vehicle fled the scene prior to officers’ arrival. Officers checked the area and were unable to locate the vehicle or any suspects.

Officers and Detectives remain on scene and are investigating. It is unknown at this time what, if anything, was taken from the shop. No further information will be released at this time as this in an ongoing investigation.

There were two previous break-ins at this shop recently, once on Sunday, February 4, 2024 and again on Sunday, March 10, 2024. Three juveniles were charged in relation to the February 4th incident. The March 10th incident remains under investigation.

For info about the Franklin Police Dept, visit them on the Town of Franklin page -> https://www.franklinma.gov/police-department

Franklin (MA) Police Press Release: Missing Person Update - Jazlyn Rodrigues Found Safe

October 23, 2023

Jazlyn Rodrigues, a 15-year-old Franklin, MA resident who has been missing since October 10th was found safe on October 21st.  She has been reunited with family.

Based upon our investigation, it appears that Jazlyn left her residence on October 10, 2023 on her own free will as a run-away.  Based on a tip, she was found at a residence in Hopkinton, MA on October 21, 2023.  It appears that Jazlyn had adult assistance throughout the entirety of her disappearance and nothing indicates that she was abducted or kept against her will.

Detectives are still investigating and charges may be filed at a later date for those who assisted in harboring or assisting her.  

The Franklin Police Department would like to thank the community and the following agencies for their assistance during this investigation:

• New England State Police Information Network (NESPIN)

• Hopkinton Police Department

• Mansfield Police Department

Franklin (MA) Police Press Release: Missing Person - Jazlyn Rodrigues Found Safe

Amy M. Frigulietti introduced as Deputy Town Administrator, starts July 3, 2023

To: Town Council, Department Heads

From: Jamie Hellen, Town Administrator

Re: Deputy Town Administrator

I am pleased to announce the appointment of Amy M. Frigulietti as Deputy Town Administrator. Amy is a career public servant who brings nearly 20 years of in-depth, diverse, and extensive public sector experience to the organization. I have included her professional bio below. She will start on July 3, 2023.

Amy M. Frigulietti

The hiring process went very smoothly and took several months to complete. The town received 119 applications for the position. The interview panel consisted of HR Director Karen Bratt, Police Chief TJ Lynch, Fire Chief Jim Mclaughlin, Library Director Felicia Oti, Treasurer-Collector Kerri Bertone, DPW Director Brutus Cantoreggi, and myself. After 3 days of interviews with almost a dozen candidates, the panel independently selected Amy as the unanimous choice. The community was very fortunate to have such an extensive and qualified candidate pool and we appreciate every applicants’ time participating in the process.

In addition to familiarizing herself with the community, Amy’s early slate of work will include several business development projects, including marketing and branding, cultural and historical resources development, college relations, shared streets initiatives, communications and public relations planning, as well as several other unique, special projects. We will also ask Amy to assemble and lead a more enhanced coordination of social services in town, including mental health, opioid and substance abuse education, prevention and response, food security, homelessness and housing. It has become very clear that the need is growing in these areas and we need to increase our ability to collaborate and coordinate services amid our town and the community. Over the course of time, additional responsibilities will be phased onto Amy’s plate, including the ideas she brings to the table as she grows in the position. Per the Town Charter, Amy will serve as Acting Town Administrator, while I am out of town.

I hope the community will give Amy our traditional, warm welcome to the Franklin Family!

 

Amy M. Frigulietti introduced as Deputy Town Administrator, starts July 3, 2023

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

Amy M. Frigulietti

Ms. Frigulietti has nearly 20 years of experience in administrative and professional management and brings expertise in economic development, public policy, and community outreach in the public sector. A Massachusetts native, Amy most recently worked as the Assistant Executive Director of General Government Services for the Town of Wellesley.

As Wellesley’s Assistant Executive Director, Ms. Frigulietti managed all aspects of town government operations, overseeing economic development projects, and collaborating with numerous Town boards and departments on issues impacting local government, including housing, transportation, and public health and safety.

In this role, Ms. Frigulietti served as Wellesley’s Health Insurance Representative for the West Suburban Health Group, and on the Wellesley Business Alliance as part of the Charles River Chamber of Commerce. Amy was also a member of Wellesley’s Traffic & Parking Committee, Mobility Committee, Housing Task Force, and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Task Force. She also volunteered her time as a founding member of the Wellesley Freedom Team and the Wellesley Civil Discourse Initiative. She was Wellesley’s lead as Norfolk County Representative, Norfolk County Finance Committee member, State legislative liaison and, during the height of the Coronavirus pandemic, was on the Advisory Board of the Community Fund for Wellesley COVID-19 Relief Fund.

Prior to working in Wellesley, Ms. Frigulietti served in several capacities in state, county and local government, including in the General Court of the State Legislature, the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office, and for the Boston City Council.

Ms. Frigulietti is a member of the Massachusetts Municipal Association as well as the Massachusetts Municipal Managers Association. She received her Master’s Degree in Public Administration (MPA) from the John W. McCormack School of Public Policy and Global Studies at the University of Massachusetts Boston, concentrating her studies in municipal management. She was the 2018 recipient of the MPA Public Service Award and is a member of Pi Alpha Alpha, Global Honor Society for Public Affairs Administration. She received her undergraduate degree in Journalism and Political Science from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

Shared from the press release -> 

 

Flea-Control Products Found to Be Infested With Forever Chemicals

Popular pet flea collars and treatments contain high levels of toxic PFAS chemicals, ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

FLEA-CONTROL PRODUCTS FOUND TO BE INFESTED WITH FOREVER CHEMICALS High PFAS Levels Pose Additional Risks to Pets, Owners  Popular pet flea collars and treatments contain high levels of toxic PFAS chemicals, according to laboratory test results posted today by Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility.    PFAS (per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are associated with a variety of ailments, including suppressed immune function, thyroid disease, testicular and kidney cancers and liver damage.   Popular flea and tick products were sent to a certified lab, which found that: Frontline Plus for Dogs, a popular topical flea and tick product, contains 2,390 parts per trillion (ppt) of four different PFAS, including GenX. Frontline is a liquid pesticide applied between the pets' shoulder blades once a month; it spreads throughout the skin and fur.   Seresto flea and tick collars contain 250 ppt of a long-chain PFAS. Seresto is a plastic band impregnated with insecticides and other ingredients that are released over time and coat an animal's fur.    By comparison, the EPA has yet to promulgate legal limits but has established a 70 ppt lifetime health advisory for two types of PFAS (PFOA and PFOS) in drinking water. Leading scientists have called for a drinking water safety limit of 0.1 ppt for PFOA.   After testing by PEER revealed PFAS levels of 250-500 ppt in Anvil 10+10, a widely used, aerially sprayed insecticide, the EPA asked states with existing stocks of Anvil to discontinue its use in order to minimize risks to both the environment and human health.     "EPA's oversight of pest control products is beyond negligent," said PEER science policy director Kyla Bennett, a scientist and attorney formerly with the EPA. "EPA insists that pesticides do not contain PFAS as deliberately added ingredients, yet PFAS are on both EPA's approved list of inert ingredients and are active ingredients in a number of pesticide products. On one hand, EPA declares the urgent need to control the spread of PFAS, while its other hand facilitates the spread of PFAS through lax pesticide regulation."     One major concern is that people can be exposed to these products though their skin by petting and playing with their pets and children face even greater risk through their frequent hand-to-mouth behavior.    A recent study found dogs and cats are highly exposed to PFAS and often exposed to concentrations well above the minimum risk level identified for humans.   The troubling findings regarding PFAS in flea-control products comes after documents obtained from the EPA revealed the agency has received more than 75,000 complaints linking the Seresto flea collar to harms ranging from skin irritation to nearly 1,700 pet deaths. Yet the agency has taken no action in response to the reports such as recalling the product or issuing a nationwide warning to the public of its potential dangers.    The Center for Biological Diversity filed a formal legal petition last month urging the EPA to cancel the registration of the Seresto collar, which is also linked to nearly 1,000 incidents of harm to humans.   "The trust the public puts in our regulatory agencies is being blatantly violated by the EPA's pesticide office," said Nathan Donley, environmental health science director at the Center for Biological Diversity. "The lack of transparency here is dumbfounding. Not only are we finding out that these products are associated with high levels of harm, but they include dangerous ingredients that are not even being disclosed."   Often referred to as "forever chemicals" because they don't break down and can accumulate in humans, PFAS can be found in some food packaging and a wide variety of industrial and household products — including nonstick materials, cleaning products and firefighting foams. Ph: (202) 265-PEER (7337) · Fax: (202) 265-4192 All content © 2017 Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility 962 Wayne Ave, Suite 610, Silver Spring, MD 20910

Baker-Polito Administration Files New Legislation to Improve Road Safety

@MassGovernor tweeted

"Today (Monday, Apr 26, 2021) we filed road safety legislation that includes several provisions we previously filed in 2019 and several new proposals like increasing penalties for individuals who cause personal injury while driving on a non-administratively suspended license."

Shared from Twitter: https://twitter.com/MassGovernor/status/1386696555797876739

The press release with details

https://www.mass.gov/news/baker-polito-administration-files-new-legislation-to-improve-road-safety

CommonWealth Magazine coverage:  https://commonwealthmagazine.org/criminal-justice/baker-proposes-new-seatbelt-traffic-camera-law/

Press release video link = https://youtu.be/Wm5jlK4PzGE

FDA and CDC Lift Recommended Pause on Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) COVID-19

Following a thorough safety review, including two meetings of the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have determined that the recommended pause regarding the use of the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) COVID-19 Vaccine in the U.S. should be lifted and use of the vaccine should resume.

The pause was recommended after reports of six cases of a rare and severe type of blood clot in individuals following administration of the Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine. During the pause, medical and scientific teams at the FDA and CDC examined available data to assess the risk of thrombosis involving the cerebral venous sinuses, or CVST (large blood vessels in the brain), and other sites in the body (including but not limited to the large blood vessels of the abdomen and the veins of the legs) along with thrombocytopenia, or low blood platelet counts. The teams at FDA and CDC also conducted extensive outreach to providers and clinicians to ensure they were made aware of the potential for these adverse events and could properly manage and recognize these events due to the unique treatment required for these blood clots and low platelets, also known as thrombosis-thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS).

The two agencies have determined the following:

• Use of the Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine should be resumed in the United States.
• The FDA and CDC have confidence that this vaccine is safe and effective in preventing COVID-19.
• The FDA has determined that the available data show that the vaccine’s known and potential benefits outweigh its known and potential risks in individuals 18 years of age and older.
• At this time, the available data suggest that the chance of TTS occurring is very low, but the FDA and CDC will remain vigilant in continuing to investigate this risk.
• Health care providers administering the vaccine and vaccine recipients or caregivers should review the  Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine Fact Sheet for Healthcare Providers Administering Vaccine (Vaccination Providers)external icon and Fact Sheet for Recipients and Caregiversexternal icon, which have been revised to include information about the risk of this syndrome, which has occurred in a very small number of people who have received the Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine.

Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine fact sheet for recipients

https://www.fda.gov/media/146305/download

Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine fact sheet for healthcare providers

https://www.fda.gov/media/146304/download

Vaccine call center to be set up; Gov Baker press conf link on small grant awards

 

"AMID GROWING frustration with the state’s process for arranging COVID-19 vaccination appointments, Gov. Charlie Baker announced Thursday that his administration intends to set up a call center next week for those who need additional help.

On Wednesday, people 75 and over who are not living in nursing homes or assisted living facilities started making appointments for vaccinations. Baker said 45,000 appointments were made over the last two days but the demand far outpaced supply. An estimated 500,000 people over 75 are eligible to obtain the two-dose vaccination, but he said the state has been receiving only 80,000 doses a week, a number bumping up to 100,000 next week."

Continue reading the article online

https://commonwealthmagazine.org/health/baker-setting-up-vaccine-call-center/

Maura Healey (@MassAGO):

"First, it was unemployment. The Department of Unemployment had no live call center.
Then, it was workplace safety.
After that, evictions. No system.
We've tried to help those frustrated constituents all year. The vaccine call center should have happened yesterday. "

Shared from Twitter: https://twitter.com/MassAGO/status/1354882824109752329

Gov Baker Press Conf Link - https://youtu.be/z0IpZCRvFME

Press Release on Small Business Grants

https://www.mass.gov/news/baker-polito-administration-awards-over-45-million-in-grants-to-1100-new-small-businesses

CommonWealth Magazine: some school districts rollback opening in person; new testing plan announced

"Amid rising cases, districts roll back reopening plans"

"DOZENS OF SCHOOL DISTRICTS shifted to remote learning for at least two weeks after the holidays in an effort to keep the virus out of schools in the event students and parents traveled or engaged in large-person events during the break.

Brockton, which has an 11.85 percent community positive test rate, is delaying its return to in-person learning for almost 400 high needs students, which was set for mid-January, by at least two weeks. Pre-K and kindergarten students, which have been remote, would return February 8.

Continue reading the article

https://commonwealthmagazine.org/the-download/amid-rising-cases-districts-roll-back-reopening-plans/

"A shopping bag that held the key to safe school opening"

"A LITTLE BEFORE 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Liz Ruark started out from the small Worcester County town of Harvard on the 30-mile drive to Kendall Square in Cambridge. Nestled on the floor of the backseat of her Subaru Forester was a Home Goods tote bag whose contents were key to the community’s goal of keeping its schools open while also holding the COVID-19 pandemic at bay.

Ruark, a parent of two Harvard public school students, has helped spearhead a five-month effort that culminated in this week’s launch of free weekly coronavirus surveillance testing of all students, teachers, and staff in the rural district. The cargo she was rushing to a Cambridge lab held specimens from the 713 people who showed up throughout the day to have nasal swabs taken at four outdoor testing stations set up outside the town’s combined middle-high school building."

Continue reading the article

https://commonwealthmagazine.org/health/state-launching-weekly-school-covid-testing-initiative/

Gov Baker's press conference on Thursday, Jan 7 announcing the new testing plan

https://youtu.be/rHWX0Ml53-M

The press release with details on the new testing plans for schools (and limited funding for this)

https://www.mass.gov/news/baker-polito-administration-announces-pooled-testing-initiative-for-massachusetts-schools

New MA interactive dashboard for COVID-19 reporting  https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-response-reporting

Town of Franklin (MA) COVID-19 status per new MA dashboard

MA hospital capacity per MA COVID-19 dashboard