Great resource to find adapted versions of popular literature for students with complex disabilities

via Paul V. Sherlock Center on Disabilities / RI College

Over 400 adapted versions of popular literature for students with complex disabilities are organized in a searchable database on our website; it’s our most-visited page every month!

In recognition of Deafblind Awareness Week, we’re highlighting a few of our Rhode Island-related titles:

Great resource to find adapted versions of popular
literature for students with complex disabilities

• Things Made in Rhode Island

• Rhode Island Beaches

• Rhode Island Famous People

• Rhode Island Famous Places

• Rhode Island Foods

• Rhode Island History

Check them out at https://bit.ly/RI-lit or view all of our adapted literature offerings at https://bit.ly/adaptedliterature.

Stay tuned, Massachusetts friends; we haven’t forgotten you!

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/1NopNYufN5/

Visit the website for more info on the Sherlock Center -> https://sherlockcenter.ric.edu/

*Yes, there is a family relationship to this Sherlock Center. Paul was my father's brother.

How to Access Online Resources with your Franklin Library card

As you have noticed, I share pertinent articles from other legitimate media sources.

When I do that for the Boston Globe and NY Times, you can access the full article in the newspaper with a Franklin Public Library card. If you don't already have one, might be a good idea to get one.

There are a whole listing of online resources available with a library card. You'll need to go the Library page, Online resources, and then follow that link which will prompt you for your library card to get access. A few clicks but those clicks save you the subscription fee.

How to access the Online Resources step by step with the Boston Globe newspaper shown as an example:

Go to the Library page ->  https://franklinma.gov/233/Franklin-Public-Library 

Select “Online Resources” as indicated by the red arrow

Select “Online Resources” as indicated by the red arrow

Scroll alphabetically, or chose the alpha section to the one you want

Scroll alphabetically, or chose the alpha section to the one you want

On the next screen enter your Library card # and then enjoy the online access to this resource

On the next screen enter your Library card # and then enjoy the online access to this resource

While these steps are the easy one two three for most of the databases, there are a few that require some extra steps. If you need help getting access please contact the library through the website contact forms (https://www.franklinma.gov/235/Contact-Us) or call the main line at 508-520-4941

Download this info as a one page PDF to remember or to share

https://drive.google.com/file/d/16jrK4oH3oAR7R0dcAtVHBbMBQzW__089/view?usp=drive_link

Get your January 2025 guide to social resources from Hockomock Area YMCA

January 2025 guide to social resources

Hockomock Area YMCA (@HockomockYMCA) posted Sat, Jan 04, 2025:

 

"Our Y is committed to connecting people to available local resources and social support services as part of our Social Action Services initiative.

You can also download our resource guide here: https://t.co/moKRBSXIUp"

 

Shared from -> https://t.co/JmlXIKBMMj

Master Plan Subcommittees: Sustainability & OSR & NCHR Subcommittees meeting scheduled for Mon, Dec 30

Sustainability Subcommittee Meeting

Event Date:  Monday, December 30, 2024 - 5:00pm

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/sustainability_-agenda_2024-12-30_updated_20241226.pdf

OSR & NCHR Subcommittee Meeting

Event Date:  Monday, December 30, 2024 - 5:45pm

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/osrp_and_nchr_subcommittee_agenda_-_dec_30_2024.pdf

Master Plan Subcommittees: Sustainability & OSR & NCHR Subcommittees meeting scheduled for Mon, Dec 30

Master Plan Update: Implementation Program: Strategies and Actions - Land Use; Natural, Cultural, & Historical Resources; & Sustainability

Over the next couple of days, sections of the Master Plan Update "final draft" will be shared to prepare for the Public Hearing scheduled for Thursday, Nov 14. 

The presentation and hearing will begin at 6:30 PM in the 3rd Floor Training Room of the Municipal Building. Franklin TV is scheduled to broadcast the event (and record for future viewing).

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Key Issues and Opportunities

This document outlines the major challenges currently faced by the Town of Franklin. These key issues, along with potential opportunities, are instrumental in understanding and shaping the Town’s Master Plan update. Additionally, they contribute to the formulation of the town’s vision, goals, and strategies for the next ten to twenty years.

PDF for this section:   https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BZ_xY4ypsvRl1esW3dmJe5zrMajEgCer/view?usp=drive_link

Implementation Program: Strategies and Actions

Master Plan Strategies are intended to inform decision-making and ensure that community development aligns with the goals of the master plan. These strategies are crafted through an assessment of current conditions, emerging trends, and future projections for the community. Once established, these strategies serve as a framework for decisions related to land use, zoning regulations, transportation infrastructure, and various elements of community development.

Master Plan Action Items represent specific tasks required to achieve the goals and objectives detailed in the master plan. They are individual steps necessary to implement the guiding strategies and achieve the desired outcomes.

Given the complex table structure of the detailed implementation plans, I have broken out each section in a single PDF for easier reading by topic.

Land Use

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BP8FxjmTyTM8buB_loo5xoe2r99xLIOc/view?usp=drive_link

Natural, Cultural & Historical Resources

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BXI3m_Z4BiATYtHeh2uCLzuIZ5qH6NkO/view?usp=drive_link

Sustainability

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BXLSXzZG-y17TDgXy_hBNgMWBUQ4-NbA/view?usp=drive_link

The full Master Plan Update final draft report can be found on the Town page ->

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/franklin_master_plan_final_draft_report-nov2024.pdf

Master Plan Update: Implementation Program: Strategies and Actions - Land Use; Natural, Cultural, & Historical Resources; & Sustainability

DCR is seeking Public Comments on plans for SNETT

Comments must be submitted by October 31

View this email in your browser Department of Conservation & Recreation is seeking Public Comments on plans for SNETT The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) has prepared draft Resource Management Plans (RMPs) for several locations inside the Blackstone Complex.   The Southern New England Trunkline Trail (SNETT) is one of the properties targeted for improvements. Copies of the plan for the SNETT are available on the Blackstone RMPs web page. A meeting was conducted on October 8 where DCR presented an initial draft of the RMPs for the Blackstone Complex.  A recording of the meeting and the slideshow from the meeting are available online.  DCR encourages the public to share additional feedback, with a deadline for receipt of comments by DCR of October 31st, 2024. Comments may be submitted via the DCR public comment portal.  Please be sure to select "Blackstone RMPs" from the "Topic Selection" drop down so that your comments are included with the correct project.  Please note that the content of comments you submit to DCR, along with your name, town, and zip code, will be posted on DCR's website. Additional contact information required when commenting, notably email address, will only be used for outreach on future updates on the subject project or property. Warm regards, Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail Committee Copyright © 2024 Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail Committee, All rights reserved. Our mailing address is: Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail Committee PO Box 68 Franklin, Ma 02038

The resource management plan can be found directly -> https://www.mass.gov/doc/snet-rmp-september-2024/download

text text text text

Hockomock Area YMCA shared their set of resources for September 2024

resources for September 2024

Hockomock Area YMCA (@HockomockYMCA) posted:

Our Y is committed to connecting people to available local resources and social support services as part of our Social Action Services initiative. You can also download our resource guide here: https://t.co/moKRBSXIUp

or directly -> https://hockymca.org/shared/docs/SAS-Community-Resources.pdf 

#MentalHealthMatters

Shared from -> https://t.co/gJMQUk3v3s

Hockomock YMCA shares extensive resource guide (PDF)

Via the Hockomock YMCA

"Our Y is committed to connecting people to available local resources and social support services as part of our resource guide is also available for download: hockymca.org/shared/docs/SAS-Community-Resources.pdf
#MentalHealthMatters"

Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/p/C8B_NYvsq0w/

Hockomock YMCA shares extensive resource guide (PDF)

2023 Disability Expo - scheduled for Saturday, May 20, 2023

The 2023 Disability Expo is scheduled for individuals with disability, support persons, community partners, and more. It will be held at the Franklin Senior Center on Saturday, May 20, 2023 from 11 AM to 2 PM.

Representatives are scheduled to be on site to share a variety of resources regarding disability services that are available.

Questions? call Disability Chairperson Mary O'Neill at 508-440-1265

Download the flyer to share or as your reminder

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1X4DNe9MyhUQg6unJUrjtZwsHS71Ssbwh/view?usp=share_link

2023 Disability Expo - scheduled for Saturday, May 20, 2023

Board of Health efficiently conducts meeting, includes reports in Agenda doc (audio)

FM #968 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 968 in the series. 

This session of the radio show shares the Town of Franklin Board of Health Meeting held on Wednesday, April 5, 2023. Two board members participated, 1 in room (Cochrane), 1 remote (Sweet); hence roll call votes, with 1 absent (Harris). Health Dept staff present were in the 3rd floor training room. 

Quick Recap:

• With a short Board present, shifted the tobacco regulations to the next session

• Inspector’s report, Nurse’s report, Epidemiologist report all touting volume and some issues but nothing major, copies of their report pages are now included in the meeting packet

• Question on new inspection alignment; not implemented yet, still using same process as before

• Question on when the Health Fair is scheduled? May 24 at the Franklin Library from 3 to 6 PM

The meeting runs about 15 minutes. Let’s listen to the Board of Health meeting Apr 5, 2023. Audio file -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-968-tof-board-of-health-mtg-04-05-23

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

The Board of Health agenda can be found ->

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/04.05.23_agenda_and_packet.pdf 

My notes collected in a Twitter thread PDF ->

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1UVJozV_zimvunaFHBADhoj2LJypzaDr3/view?usp=share_link 

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

We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial.  

This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.

How can you help?

• If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors

• If you don't like something here, please let me know

Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.

For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news/

If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com

The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana"  c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.

I hope you enjoy!

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

You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

Health Dept home page provides active links to other health resources

Urgent: Extreme Cold Temperature Forecast - February 3 - February 5, 2023: Resident Resources

Extreme Cold Temperature Forecast  

February 3 - February 5, 2023: Resident Resources

Massachusetts is predicted to experience potential record breaking cold temperatures and gusty winds Friday, February 3rd through Sunday February 5th, 2023.

Residents are reminded that the Franklin Public Library will be available as a warming center during regular business hours on Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Sunday, 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. 

At this time, the Town of Franklin does not anticipate opening an emergency shelter, UNLESS there are widespread power outages in town from the wind. Any updates will be communicated via the official Town of Franklin Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram social media accounts and website. Residents can dial 2-1-1 to find warming centers and emergency shelters near you. In the event of an emergency, dial 9-1-1.

Residents are encouraged to review emergency resources by visiting the Emergency information toolkit located here. 

Below are some tips from the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency for staying safe in extreme cold.

What to do during extreme cold weather:

• Reduce outdoor activities for the whole family, including pets.
• Dress in several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight clothing instead of a single heavy layer. Outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellent. Wear a hat, mittens (not gloves), and sturdy waterproof boots to protect your arms, legs, hands and feet. Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.
• Follow recommended safety precautions when using space heaters, a fireplace, or a woodstove to heat your home. Keep a fire extinguisher handy.
• Make sure emergency generators or secondary heating systems are well ventilated.
• If you lose heating, move into a single room. At night, cover windows and external doors with extra blankets or sheets.
• Wrap pipes in insulation or layers of newspapers covered in plastic to prevent them from freezing. Let a trickle of warm water run from a faucet to keep water moving through your pipes.
• If your pipes freeze, open all faucets all the way, remove any insulation, and heat the frozen pipe with a hair dryer or wrap with towels soaked in hot water. Never use an open flame to thaw pipes.
• In the event of a power outage, you may need to take extra precautions or go to an emergency shelter to stay warm.
• Know the symptoms of and watch out for cold-related illnesses. Call 9-1-1 to report emergencies.
• Be a good neighbor. Check on family, friends, and neighbors, especially the elderly, those who live alone, those with medical conditions, and those who may need extra help.

 

Shared from Town of Franklin -> https://www.franklinma.gov/home/urgent-alerts/extreme-cold-temperature-forecast-february-3rd-february-5th-2023-resident

Urgent: Extreme Cold Temperature Forecast - February 3 - February 5, 2023: Resident Resources

State Rep Jeff Roy outlines help available for high energy costs this winter

State Representative Jeffrey Roy writes:

"I am sure you have been hearing and reading about increased energy costs. In summary, due to high natural gas and oil prices stemming from the Russia-Ukrainian war and other factors, heating and electricity utility bills will dramatically increase this winter.  To help you manage these steep increases, my office has compiled a list of resources that can help.  In addition, the Baker-Polito Administration is consulting with the federal government to create a winter heating plan, which we will share once available.   

It is important to keep in mind that our overreliance on natural gas to both heat our homes and serve as a fuel for electricity generation has made Massachusetts vulnerable to price swings.  In current and previous sessions, the Legislature has directed the state to contract and prepare the grid for large amounts of offshore wind and other clean energy resources in an effort to reduce this overreliance and mitigate climate change impacts.  While the benefits of these future projects will not impact this winter’s heating season, once online, they will help stabilize utility bill prices while also providing economic benefits and transitioning us to the Commonwealth’s clean energy future. 

The following resources are available, should you need them.   

Utility payment plans 

Massachusetts’ investor-owned utilities offer flexible payment plans, regardless of income, and potential balance forgiveness.  Enrolling in a payment plan can protect constituents against shutoffs for up to 12 months with most utility companies.  Please refer to the list at the bottom of this post for information to contact your utility.*   

Income-eligible assistance programs 

For customers with a household income not greater than 60 percent of the state median income, Massachusetts utilities offer a discount on a customer’s total utility bill as well as individualized payment plans known as arrearage management plans (AMPs) where a customer can have some or all of their outstanding balance forgiven.*  These customers can also apply at any time throughout the winter season for fuel assistance through the federal Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).  Community action agencies can help walk constituents through the process of applying and answer any questions they may have.   

Constituents between 60 to 80 percent of the state median income are encouraged to see if they qualify for financial help from the Good Neighbor Energy Fund. 

Winter heating shutoff protections 

You are protected by Massachusetts law (MGL c.164, § 124F) from having your gas or electric utilities shutoff from November 15, 2022, to March 15, 2023 if those services are used for heating.  Constituents will still be responsible for any unpaid bills when the shutoff ends.  The Attorney General’s office encourages customers to enroll in a utility payment plan, which also provides shutoff protections, and avoids accumulating debt.  As stated above, most utilities offer payment plans for up to 12 months. 

Energy efficiency audit 

The nation-leading Mass Save energy efficiency programs run by the Massachusetts investor-owned utilities can provide constituents with information about how to reduce their energy use.  This should lead to lower bills over time.  In addition, income-eligible customers can participate in Mass Save’s low-income offering, known as the Low-Income Energy Affordability Network.*   

Municipal aggregation programs 

Constituents in communities with active municipal aggregation programs may consider switching from their electric company to the aggregation.  The long-term electricity contracts used in these programs, typically set for three years’ time, result in stabilized electricity costs that are not subject to the same short-term price fluctuations (although upon program renewal, prices may increase). We encourage all communities to consider whether municipal aggregation is a good fit for them moving forward.    

Please do not hesitate to reach out to my office if you have any questions or concerns and stay safe and warm this winter season! "

For the utility information you can find that at https://jeffreyroy.com/2022/09/24/help-with-high-energy-costs-this-winter/

For the Franklin National Grid customers who are part of Municipal Aggregation, there is no increase. Our contract price is not affect by this rate change.

For more about Franklin's Municipal Aggregation program, visit the town page  https://www.franklinma.gov/administrator/pages/municipal-aggregation

Franklin's Municipal Aggregation program