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2023 Disability Expo - scheduled for Saturday, May 20, 2023 |
Providing accurate and timely information about what matters in Franklin, MA since 2007. * Working in collaboration with Franklin TV and Radio (wfpr.fm) since October 2019 *
Thursday, April 13, 2023
2023 Disability Expo - scheduled for Saturday, May 20, 2023
Thursday, April 6, 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
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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
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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!
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You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"
Friday, February 3, 2023
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
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Urgent: Extreme Cold Temperature Forecast - February 3 - February 5, 2023: Resident Resources |
Sunday, September 25, 2022
State Rep Jeff Roy outlines help available for 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
Tuesday, July 19, 2022
Did you know Mass Hire Metro South West is moving?
Please be advised that the Norwood Career Center has now relocated
to 128 Carnegie Row, Norwood, and is now open for customers.
Until the new Framingham Career Center opens on Monday, August 1, at
39 Grant St., Framingham, in-person services will be provided at the Norwood location
listed above. Virtual services will continue to be provided throughout the transition.
Updates and information will be posted here in the upcoming weeks.
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Thursday, June 2, 2022
Franklin Public Schools re-shares school safety resources
- Helping your children manage distress in the aftermath of a shooting: https://www.apa.org/.../gun-violence.../shooting-aftermath
- Talking to children about terrorist attacks and school and community shootings in the news: https://www.schoolcrisiscenter.org/.../Guidelines-Talking...
- Talking to Children About Violence: Tips for Parents and Teachers: https://www.nasponline.org/.../talking-to-children-about...
- School Safety Presentation: https://www.franklinps.net/.../10_12_21_fps_school_safety...
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Franklin Public Schools re-shares school safety resources |
Saturday, January 29, 2022
Social Security’s Top 5 Data Privacy Resources
From the Social Security Administration:
"Are you looking for better ways to stay safe online? As you know, Security is in our name. We are committed to protecting your personal information and take this responsibility seriously. We keep this commitment in mind when we collect information from you to carry out our mission.
As we celebrate Data Privacy Week, we are sharing our top five privacy resources:"
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Social Security’s Top 5 Data Privacy Resources |
Tuesday, July 27, 2021
MassConsumer: "Eviction Moratorium to Expire This Month" - resources available
"Throughout the pandemic, state and federal governments developed policies to protect residents facing job loss and other COVID-19 related hardships. Among those orders were moratoriums placed on home evictions. When the state’s pause on evictions expired on October 17, 2020, the federal moratorium established by the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) became effective in Massachusetts.
The CDC order, which has been extended several times, prohibits residential landlords nationwide from evicting certain tenants through July 31, 2021. Over the past year while the moratorium has been in place, courts have accepted filings, processed cases, and in some cases even entered judgments; however, no orders of execution (a court order that allows a landlord to evict a tenant) have been permitted. The CDC has said there will be no additional extensions on the eviction moratorium which means these cases can move forward. "
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"Eviction Moratorium to Expire This Month" - resources available |
Sunday, June 20, 2021
Don't forget Free job search and career assistance from local libraries
In case you didn't know, many libraries offer job-search and career assistance services. Several Massachusetts networking groups are actually run by libraries.I work for the Framingham Public library on Thursdays from 9am to 1:30pm. I offer three appointments each week: 9am, 10:30am, and Noon, via Zoom..As the services are provided by the libraries, there is no additional cost to you (because tax dollars pay for the service).If you need job-search help, career planning assistance, interview prep, or coaching, visit https://framinghamlibrary.org/services/job-help/to learn how to make an appointment with me. Please note this service is offered by the City of Framingham and the Framingham Public Library to all on a first-come, first-service basis.BTW, While I currently provide the service via Zoom, the Framingham Library is opening up in stages. I'll probably be onsite at the library starting in September.Have a great weekend!
Thursday, April 29, 2021
Updated Reopening Guidance from Governor Baker
The Baker-Polito administration announced changes to the Reopening Massachusetts guidance, as part of Phase 4, Step 2 of the Reopening Plan.
Please find the detailed information in the Reopening Resources section of our website or visit https://www.mass.gov/news/baker-polito-administration-announces-plans-for-continued-reopening
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Updated Reopening Guidance from Governor Baker |
Thursday, March 25, 2021
Statement on Anti-Asian Racism from Superintendent Dr. Sara Ahern
March 24, 2021
Dear Franklin Community,
Last night, during the School Committee meeting, we observed a moment of silence as a result of the horrific event last Tuesday in Atlanta where eight people lost their lives in a violent mass shooting. Seven of the eight victims were of Asian heritage and were targeted because of their race. The Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) community has been targeted in the last year because of the hateful stereotyping which blames the AAPI community for the Coronavirus. We acknowledge, as well, that this is part of a longer, painful history of discrimination. We extend our support to all AAPI faculty/staff members and families in our community and across the nation.
We remain committed to honoring and protecting the rights and dignity of all members of our community. As leaders of the Franklin Public Schools, we denounce racism and embrace anti-racist actions. We want to make you aware of the following opportunity. On Thursday, March 25, the Asian American Commission of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts will be holding a virtual town hall on Anti-Asian Racism:
https://www.aacommission.org/massachusetts-town-hall-on-anti-asian-racism/
Last June, we wrote, “Franklin Public Schools remains resolute in its enduring commitment to inclusive and equitable schools. Despite our greatest efforts, we are not immune to incidents of hate and bias. The painful incidents we have also experienced in our community are an affront to our core values. We will not tolerate, accept or condone acts or speech that are hateful, racist, anti-semitic, xenophobic, homophobic, or gender-biased.”
Since June, we have established the Franklin Public Schools Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (D, E, I) Committee composed of students, staff, and administrators from the district, totaling nearly sixty members. This committee is addressing our actions, policies, curriculum, instruction, activities, professional development, and other systems to ensure they are without implicit bias and promote equity and respect for all. This year, the Franklin Public Schools staff engaged in a series of professional development workshops focused on cultural proficiency and practical tools on speaking up against bias and addressing acts of bias in the moment.
We are committed to this work in the future. The proposed FY 22 budget includes funding for the D, E, I Committee’s ongoing work, funding to support an Equity Audit to identify areas of growth for our district, and resources and materials for more culturally proficient literature for our school and classroom libraries. Franklin Public Schools is also proud to join invested community members as part of the Franklin Freedom Team, whose mission is to preserve freedom through unity in the community. The team is reactive, proactive, and retroactive in assessing and addressing hate and bias in the Town of Franklin.
We also want to provide faculty/staff and families with additional information. Many thanks to the MSAA/MIAA, who shared the resources below (originally compiled by the Lexington Public Schools).
Sincerely,
Sara Ahern, Superintendent of Schools, on behalf of the Franklin Public Schools Leadership Team
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Superintendent Dr. Sara Ahern in a recent School Committee meeting |
Sunday, May 24, 2020
Bill seeks to get meals to medically vulnerable seniors
"A bill that would establish a Medicare pilot program to address the link between diet, chronic illness and senior health has been introduced by a bipartisan group including U.S. Rep. Jim McGovern.Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
The Massachusetts Democrat said the bill would ensure that nutritious meals reach medically vulnerable seniors in their homes, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, while providing data to help build a more resilient health care system.
“There is no doubt that what we eat plays a huge role in our overall health, yet our federal policies are decades behind the science on this,” McGovern said in a press release. “We prioritize treatment instead of prevention.”
Other lawmakers backing the measure including Republican U.S. Reps. Jackie Walorski of Indiana and Roger Marshall of Kansas and Democratic Rep. Chellie Pingree of Maine."
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200523/bill-seeks-to-get-meals-to-medically-vulnerable-seniors
For the resources available locally, check out the Coronavirus portal on the Town of Franklin page
https://www.franklinma.gov/home/pages/community-resources-and-support
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check out the Coronavirus portal on the Town of Franklin page |
Thursday, May 14, 2020
"Each phase must ensure that cities and towns have full access to the resources needed to reopen"
"The MMA today (5/13/20) presented a comprehensive set of municipal priorities and recommendations to the state’s COVID-19 Reopening Advisory Board, the 17-member panel drafting the state plan that will be released on May 18.
The MMA is calling for:
- Timely notice to local government in advance of each reopening phase
- Strong and specific health and safety standards and directives from the state on how to protect the public and employees during each phase
- Delivery of resources to all communities to ensure equity and consistency in public services throughout the state
- Clear affirmation of local enforcement authority and high standards for industry to follow to ensure consistency across Massachusetts
Arlington Town Manager Adam Chapdelaine and MMA Executive Director Geoff Beckwith presented a detailed framework for action that was developed by a special MMA Reopening Advisory Committee of municipal officials from across the state.
The MMA emphasized the need for a careful and sustainable reopening process that is driven by public health needs above all, so that Massachusetts can avoid a second shutdown, which would devastate chances for economic recovery in the near term while lives are again at risk."
Continue reading the article online
https://www.mma.org/mma-presents-key-municipal-priorities-for-reopening-process/
The presentation copy can be found online
https://41g41s33vxdd2vc05w415s1e-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/MMA_Presentation_to_RAB_FinalDraft_5.12.pdf
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1 page of the summary on recommendations |
Wednesday, March 25, 2020
Business & Employee Support during COVID-19 Restrictions
● Department of Unemployment Insurance (Department of Labor Relations). Read all of the information, latest updates and apply for unemployment assistance here
https://www.mass.gov/orgs/department-of-unemployment-assistance
Find the unemployment application here
https://www.mass.gov/unemployment-insurance-ui-online
● Guidance and Directives for Businesses & Employers: Updated information regarding unemployment resources can be found here:
https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-guidance-and-directives#businesses-&-employers-
● The Rapid Response Program works closely with companies to avoid layoffs and keep a skilled workforce engaged in the existing regional economy or industry. To find out more about how the Rapid Response Team can help businesses visit this link: https://www.mass.gov/service-details/rapid-response-layoff-aversion
● SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) are available statewide. Massachusetts received approval for the disaster declaration for small businesses and private non-profits to apply for the SBA EIDL loan program. Visit the SBA’s Disaster guidance web page: www.sba.gov/disaster Applicants may apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications to mail in forms here https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance.
● MA Growth Capital Corporation:$10 million Small Business Recovery Loan Fund will provide emergency capital up to $75,000 to Massachusetts-based businesses impacted by COVID-19 with under 50 full- and part-time employees, including nonprofits. Loans are immediately available to eligible businesses with no payments due for the first 6 months. Massachusetts Growth Capital Corporation (MGCC) has capitalized on the fund and will administer it. Here is a link:
https://www.empoweringsmallbusiness.org/what-we-offer/emergency-loan-funds/covid-19-loan-fund
How to Apply: Please complete the application found on MGCC’s website, EmpoweringSmallBusiness.org.
● The IRS extended the tax deadline to July 15, 2020. Find details here
https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-day-now-july-15-treasury-irs-extend-filing-deadline-and-federal-tax-payments-regardless-of-amount-owed
● The Center for Disease Control: CDC’s Guidance for Business during the
COVID-19 Outbreak https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/guidance-business-response.htm
● Massachusetts Department of Revenue COVID-19 Information: Important updates from the Massachusetts Department of Revenue https://www.mass.gov/info-details/important-covid-19-coronavirus-response-update-from-dor
● The Federal Reserve Board announced a Market Mutual Liquidity Fund
https://www.federalreserve.gov/newsevents/pressreleases/monetary20200320b.htm
● Bulletin 2020-05; Flexibility in the Issuance and Administration of Insurance during COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Public Health Crisis; Issued 3/23/2020
https://www.mass.gov/news/bulletin-2020-05-flexibility-in-the-issuance-and-administration-of-insurance-during-covid-19
● Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office: Resources during COVID-19 Outbreak https://www.mass.gov/guides/resources-during-covid-19
● National Grid Information for Business customers regarding the COVID-19 Outbreak https://www.nationalgridus.com/COVID-19
Shared from the Town of Franklin page: https://www.franklinma.gov/home/urgent-alerts/coronavirus-information-portal-updates-here
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Business & Employee Support during COVID-19 Restrictions |
Thursday, February 14, 2019
Thursday, December 15, 2016
S.A.F.E. presents Resource Manual to First Providers
“WHAT DO WE DO NOW?: Navigating The Substance Abuse System in Massachusetts.” |
Police from Franklin, Medway, Walpole, Plainville, Wrentham, Foxboro, Millis Police Departments and Massachusetts State Police as well as Franklin and Wrentham Fire Departments were present.
Guests and members of the S.A.F.E. Coalition were introduced by Michelle Kelley (Clerk-Magistrate of the Wrentham Court and Member, S.A.F.E. Advisory Council) and including Steve Spiewakowski (S.A.F.E. Board member; Wrentham Court Probation Officer), Leslie Hazeldine (Assistant Clerk-Magistrate and Member, S.A.F.E. Advisory Council), Rep. Shawn Dooley (Member, S.A.F.E. Advisory Council) and Jordan Warnick (Secretary, S.A.F.E. Board of Directors).
Both Michelle Kelley and Steve Spiewakowski explained that the manual was developed by S.A.F.E. volunteers in consultation with area first responders and with the express intent of having them distributed by first responders to loved ones when they are called to the scene of a non-fatal opioid overdose.
These easy to understand manuals contain a wealth of information on the many complicated and often confusing aspects of the Substance Abuse treatment system in Massachusetts, as well as resources for families and individuals affected by Substance Use Disorder (SUD). The goal is to assist loved ones in more easily navigating and understanding the signs of abuse and the steps taken in treatment, as well as ongoing support for all. It is expected that Resource Manual would be updated based on feedback from first responders.
“The need for these resource booklets is immense as the addiction crises continues unabated. These booklets will serve as an invaluable resource for those personally battling the disease of addiction and their loved ones as they navigate the sometimes-complex system of treatment services that are available in our area and throughout the Commonwealth.
It answers many of the common questions people ask regarding addiction, but more importantly it provides treatment options, resources and contacts to obtain additional information and assistance. The SAFE Coalition has provided a much needed and tremendous resource to the communities it serves."Chief T.J. Lynch, Franklin
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S.A.F.E. is a coalition of community partners who have come together to provide support, education, treatment options, and coping mechanisms for those affected by substance abuse disorder. We do so by empowering those affected, including their families, with the tools necessary to succeed on their journey to recovery. We understand that while I can't, we can.
Additional info can be found at http://safecoalitionma.com/
Monday, March 9, 2015
There are Resources available for those Caring for their Elders
A recent post covers caring for elders.
According to the National Alliance for Caregiving (NAC), more than 65 million Americans act as unpaid caregivers for a family member, and the average age of an adult who receives assistance is 69 years old. TheExecutive Office of Elder Affairs (ELD), primarily through the Massachusetts Family Caregiver Support Program, provides resources to enhance the quality of life for both caregivers and their elderly loved ones.The posting goes on to provide a list of tips and resources. You can find them here http://blog.mass.gov/blog/living-in-massachusetts/caring-for-elders-resources/
DId you know that the Franklin Senior Center offers an in-home respite program for companion caregivers? The program was introduced early in 2014 and modified in the Fall to provide better coverage.
You can find out about the program with this PDF file from the Senior Center
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Senior/ccbrochure14.pdf
You can find more about the program by contacting the Senior Center directly.
Don't be overwhelmed by the support requirements. Ask for help!
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Franklin Senior Center is full of resources! |
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
new phone book coming
We are creating a new Franklin Telephone Directory and Resource Guide that will be published in Spring 2014 and mailed out to all town homes and businesses. As an extra incentive to our clients to help give back to their community and as a great benefit to your organization we are also donating 5% of all net ad sales to the Franklin Food Pantry. Seems timely as I've just read your article on the Franklin Matters website that the Food Pantry could use more assistance. For your reference I have attached a PDF with an overview of our new project that we will be sending out to potential advertisers.
Judith Needell, publisher/owner
The Shopper News
"The Shopper with a heart"
Office:
19 Dean Avenue
Franklin,ma 02038
JudithNeedell@me.com
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
"Freedom of time and opportunity"
Learning is something that should be an extension of you, not just something that happens in the classroom. So post-graduation, choose the subjects that you are interested in. Find the resources that are engaging and dynamic. Fit the learning into your lifestyle. And never let a detail like not being in a formal classroom limit your opportunities to be a student of life and to engage your mind.
I wholeheartedly agree. The day you stop learning is the day you'll fall behind. Competition is fierce and the knowledge economy places a premium on being able to think. For a more detail explanation of my own efforts on life long learning, read this http://www.sobevent.com/what-makes-shersteve-come-back-to-sobcon-over-and-over/
Click through to the full article to check out the resources suggested. I do like the TED Talks series and regularly readers here have seen a few shared from time to time. The Federal Reserve Bank of St Louis site is one I'll have to explore. http://deancultureconnect.wordpress.com/2013/05/20/a-life-of-learning/?utm_source=feedly
Both the Franklin School District and the Tri-County Regional Voc Tech offer life long learning opportunities. For Franklin visit http://cfweb.smartedu.net/lll/ and for Tri-County visit http://www.tri-county.tc/?q=node/8
And while on the topic of learning, let me add a reminder for those currently looking for work, the Job Search Jam Sessions will be held on June 14. The day features sessions to learn and share information on the job search. For additional information, including registration, visit the webpage here
http://jobsearchjamsessions.blogspot.com/2013/04/job-search-jam-sessions-ready-to-return.html