Expand Your Social Security Knowledge With These Four Terms

"We strive to explain your benefits using easy-to-understand, plain language. The Plain Writing Act of 2010 requires federal agencies to communicate information clearly in a way “the public can understand and use.” This can be particularly challenging when talking about complicated programs like Social Security, Supplemental Security Income, and Medicare.

Take a moment to learn a few common Social Security terms and acronyms! 

COLA, credits, earnings record, FICA

Continue reading the article -> https://blog.ssa.gov/expand-your-social-security-knowledge-with-these-four-terms/

Expand Your Social Security Knowledge With These Four Terms

Franklin, MA School Committee hears District Improvement Plan updates, recognizes 19 retirees (audio)

FM #803 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 803 in the series. 

This session of the radio show is the audio recording of the Franklin, MA School Committee meeting conducted on Tuesday, Sep 24, 2022. All seven members of the committee were present. After the set of retiree recognitions, the meeting took a break and then resumed. 

The recording runs about 2 hours and 27 minutes, so let’s listen in.

 Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-803-school-committee-mtg-05-24-22

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Agenda document ->   https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/scagenda_5-24-22.pdf

 

Meeting packet folder with documents released for this meeting ->   https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/pages/may-24-2022-school-committee-meeting-packet

Franklin TV YouTube video ->    https://youtu.be/gP5hyu8WZ3I

My notes via Twitter -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pO0ZkELeiMwFcz4sZg_NGLfujYDkmuo-/view?usp=sharing 

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

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"

SSA: 6 Ways to Make Saving for Retirement Easier

I heartily endorse starting small as one of the steps to save for your future retirement. The Social Security Administration provides additional tips in this article. I am fortunate to be in a good retirement position now having saved early on and then gradually increased my savings along the way. 

"It’s America Saves Week! That means it’s a great time to see how you’re doing with your savings goals. Most working Americans know they need to save for retirement. Sometimes though, because retirement is far off in the future, we may delay saving. When everyday expenses routinely pop up, saving for a time that is years away in the future can seem less urgent.

We’re working with Social Security to help you consider what your retirement will look like. The following strategies can make it easier for you to save for retirement:

Start Small. Saving something is better than saving nothing – especially with compound interest. Just $5 per day could yield a return of $1 million in 48 years with the right investments. Consider saving as early as possible. Start with 1% and increase how much you save each year."

Continue reading the SSA's tips to save
https://blog.ssa.gov/6-ways-to-make-saving-for-retirement-easier/

6 Ways to Make Saving for Retirement Easier

 

Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - Jan 19, 2022

 
1. ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM THE CHAIR

a. This meeting is being recorded by Franklin TV and shown on Comcast channel 11 and Verizon Channel 29. This meeting may be recorded by others.
b. Chair to identify members participating remotely.

2. CITIZEN COMMENTS

a. Citizens are welcome to express their views for up to five minutes on a matter that is not on the agenda. The Council will not engage in a dialogue or comment on a matter raised during Citizen Comments. The Town Council will give remarks appropriate consideration and may ask the Town Administrator to review the matter.

3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
a. December 15, 2021  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/december_15_2021_tc_meeting_minutes_-_draft_for_review.pdf
b. January 5, 2022  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/january_5_2022_tc_meeting_minutes_-_draft_for_review.pdf

4. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS

a. Proclamation/Recognition: Police Department: Retirement - Sgt. Brian Johnson

b. Proclamation/Recognition: Police Department: Retirement - Patrol Officer Rick Grover

c. Recognition: Police Department: Moving On - Kallie Montagano, Clinical Social Worker

5. APPOINTMENTS - None Scheduled

6. HEARINGS - 7:10pm - None Scheduled
7. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS- None Scheduled

8. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS
a. FY23 Department of Public Works Budget & Enterprise Fund Preview Brutus Cantoreggi, Director of Public Works

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/8a._presentation_dpw_budget_.pdf
 
9. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS

a. Capital Budget Subcommittee

b. Budget Subcommittee

c. Economic Development Subcommittee

10. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION

a. Resolution 22-04: Adoption of 2021-2022 Town Council Goals (Motion to Approve Resolution 21-74 - Majority Vote)  

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/10a._22-04.pdf

b. Resolution 22-05: FY22 Transfer of MECC Appropriation (Motion to Approve Resolution 21-74 - Majority Vote)  

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/10b._22-05.pdf

c. Resolution 22-06: Gift Acceptance - Senior Center ($1,700)  (Motion to Approve Resolution 21-74 - Majority Vote)  

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/10c._22-06.pdf

11. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

12. FUTURE AGENDA ITEM

13. COUNCIL COMMENTS

14. EXECUTIVE SESSION

15. ADJOURN

Note:
Two-Thirds Vote: requires 6 votes
Majority Vote: requires majority of members present and voting

Full agenda doc from Town of Franklin page (including remote connection info ->  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/tc_agenda_jan_19_2022.pdf

Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - Jan 19, 2022

Franklin Police Dept.: Deputy Chief James Mill retires

***DEPUTY CHIEF MILL RETIRES***

"On 11/02/2021, Deputy Chief James Mill concluded a 27+ year career with the Franklin  Police Department.  DC Mill started his career  in 1994 and worked several years in the patrol division before being promoted to Sergeant in 1999. In 2000 he was made a Detective Sergeant and led the Criminal Investigations Unit for 16 years. As a Detective Sergeant he directed the investigation of hundreds of criminal cases that led to the successful prosecution of many responsible criminals. 

In 2016 he was promoted to Deputy Chief and through his leadership and tenacity the FPD was awarded Certification status from the Massachusetts Accreditation Commission.

Although well known by many as a superb criminal investigator, he will be remembered most by those who worked with him and the victims of the crimes he investigated, as a compassionate, altruistic and caring man.

Affectionately known as Millzy by those who know him best, he was always available for a conversation, to active listen and to provide the best advice one could receive. Millzy was the textbook definition of a cop’s cop. He was always quick to stop you in the hallway, ask if you needed anything, and how your family was doing. 

Deputy Chief Mill, your tireless dedication, leadership and service to the Franklin Police Department and the residents of Franklin is irreplaceable. We all wish you and your family the best and hope your retirement brings nothing but joy."

Shared from Franklin Police Facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/162770995915/posts/10157897508400916/

Deputy Chief Mill retires (FPD Facebook photo)

Franklin, MA Town Council Meeting - Wednesday, September 15, 2021 - Three Part Audio Segments

FM #605-606-607 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, numbers 605-606-607 in the series. 

This shares the three part audio segments of the Franklin, MA Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, September 15, 2021. 

The meeting was conducted in a hybrid format: members of the Town Council and Town Administration personnel, the Police retirement and promotion individuals, along with their guest and family members were in the Council Chambers, some members of the public participated in person, some via the Zoom conference bridge, all to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

I’ve split the just about two hours and forty-five minutes ( 2:45 total elapsed time) into three (3) logical segments:

• First (#605) - covers the opening, citizen comments, Police retirement and promotions. The break after the police ceremonies was excluded from this audio.  (~40 mins)

• Second (#606) - covers three appointments, one license transaction and the SAFE Coalition presentation by Jennifer Knight-Levine (~ 58 minutes) 

• Third (#607) - covers the DelCarte invasive species update by Conservation Agent Jennifer Delmore, Legislation for Action, Council Comments and meeting close. (~ 58 minutes)

The show notes contain links to the meeting agenda. Let’s listen to this segment of the Town Council meeting of Sep 15, 2021

Part 1 (#605) -> https://player.captivate.fm/episode/5563727f-a24f-4aa8-b4e2-9901951bd693

Part 2 (#606) -> https://player.captivate.fm/episode/ab9ec365-5692-4151-883f-04fe5e8014cd

Part 3 (#607) -> https://player.captivate.fm/episode/c0a7f4f2-5afb-4d2d-9daf-64422c92b1f1

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

Agenda document 

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/09-15-2021_town_council_agenda.pdf 

My notes from the meeting  -> 

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/09/recap-introduction-retirement-promotion.html 

Town Council Quarterbacking session (a short recap with Council Chair Tom Mercer) -> 

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/09/fm604-town-council-quarterbacking.html 

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

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 www.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"

 

Slide from the SAFE Coalition presentation by Jennifer Knight-Levine

FM#604 - Town Council Quarterbacking - 09/15/21 (audio)

FM #604 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 604 in the series. 

This shares my conversation with Town Council Chair Tom Mercer. This is one of a series of conversations meant to provide a recap of the prior Council meeting. Akin to one of the many sports post-game analysis broadcasts we are familiar with in New England,  this would be a discussion focused on the Franklin Town Council meeting of September 15, 2021: 

• ok, what just happened? 

• What does it mean for Franklin residents and taxpayers?

We cover the following key topics

4.       PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS

a.        Police Department:

i.          Sergeant Lee Drake - Retirement

ii.         Sergeant Louis Marguerite - Promotion

 

5.        APPOINTMENTS

a.        Janice Prentice - Associate member, Historical Commission   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/5a._appointment_-_prentice.pdf 

b.        Chuna Keophannga - Finance Committee   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/5b._appointment_-_keophannga.pdf 

c.         Tyrel Hansen - Finance Committee   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/5c._appointment_-_hansen.pdf 

 

7.        LICENSE TRANSACTIONS

a.        Franklin Shed, LLC d/b/a Franklin Shed, New Section 12 Restaurant, All Alcoholic Beverages, and approval of manager, located at 340 East Central Street, Franklin, MA.   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/7a._web_franklin_shed.pdf 

 

8.        PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS

a.        SAFE Coalition, Jennifer Knight-Levine, Executive Director

b.        Delcarte Conservation Area Weed Remediation, Jennifer Delmore, Conservation Agent  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/8b._delcarte_weeds_pres.pdf

 

10.      LEGISLATION FOR ACTION

a.        Resolution 21-53: Gift Acceptance, Franklin Public Library $5,890, Veterans’ Service Department $300, Fire Department $200 (Motion to Approve Resolution 21-53 - Majority Vote)

b.        Bylaw Amendment 21-875: Chapter 82, Trash and Recycling Fee Increase - Second Reading

(Motion to adopt Bylaw Amendment 21-875 - Majority Roll Call Vote)  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/10b._21-875_trash.pdf 

The show notes include links to the meeting agenda and associated documents.

Our conversation runs about 25 minutes, so let’s listen in to my quarterbacking session with Tom Mercer. Audio file => https://player.captivate.fm/episode/9ff2fbfe-abca-4e0b-893e-e69b66a08c5c

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Agenda doc (including connection info) -> 

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/09/recap-introduction-retirement-promotion.html 

Volunteer form -> http://franklinmaboards.vt-s.net/newcaf.php 

The report tab is configured for two reports, one on vacancies -> http://franklinmaboards.vt-s.net/vt.php 

And one on expiring terms -> http://franklinmaboards.vt-s.net/et.php  

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

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"

 

FM#604 - Town Council Quarterbacking - 09/15/21 (audio)

Recap: Introduction, retirement, promotion, and two presentations highlight the Town Council meeting

Quick Recap:

• Less than polite discourse around comments regarding the Senator Warren visit to the Town Common continue among multiple parties. Edgy tone continues in a long set of 'facts' ultimately leaving one citizen confused about the zoning bylaw proposal reviewed in the public hearing at last meeting and then put aside. 
• Brief introduction of new Veterans Service agent - Shannon Nisbett and Debra Martin now a Town employee (previously funded by Norfolk County).
• One retirement and one promotion recognized with state and local proclamations including swearing in for promotion
• New all alcohol license approved for the Franklin Shed, a new restaurant slated to open in early to mid-2022 next to the Big Y
• Presentation from Jen Knight-Levine touting the services and development of SAFE Coalition also closed with the staggering fact on the potency of THC in the vap cartridges today vs. the marijuana of several years ago
• Jen Delmore, Conservation Agent, provided an update on the progress to mitigating the invasive plant growth on the DelCarte ponds. Much accomplished, more to be done before fishing can be restored
• Formal passage of the trash/recycling fee with the second vote to approve. An increase of $8/year for the normal containers, no change for the smaller containers. This still leaves the town residents paying less than the $300/year we paid before the single stream system was implemented.

 
----
As with most meetings in this pandemic period, I took my notes via Twitter during the meeting although this time, reporting live from the Council Chambers.
 

Photos captured during the meeting and shared via Twitter can be found in one album -> https://photos.app.goo.gl/3y3gZiaavkP78m6A6

The Twitter hashtag can be found online  #tc0915 
https://twitter.com/search?q=%23tc0915&src=typed_query  
 
Agenda doc (including connection info) ->   
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/09-15-2021_town_council_agenda.pdf 
 
 

• getting ready for the Town Council meeting at 7 PM - agenda can be found -> https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/09-15-2021_town_council_agenda.pdf  #TC0915
  
• All 8 councilors present this evening (1 spot open due to resignation, to be filled with the Nov 2, 2021 election) #tc0915
  
• Chair Mercer opens meeting; multiple access to meeting reminder - in person, Zoom access, live stream via Town page, or cable via Verizon/Comcast #tc0915
  
• brief intro of Shannon Nisbett, new Veterans Service Officer (replacing Dale Kurtz who retired); Debra Martin, assistant to the VSO now a ToF employee for veterans service #tc0915
  
• Nancy Danello, acting Town Clerk, with an update on the local election  - Sep 30 last day to withdraw; Oct 13 last day to register to vote; Oct 14 candidates night; Oct 20 machine testing; early voting during business hours once ballots arrive #tc0915
  
• Sat Oct 23, and Sun Oct 24; from 10 AM to 1:00 PM for early voting in the Town Clerk's office #tc0915
  
• J Callaway-Tripp making comment against Pellegri's comments from the Sep 1 meeting; slander, violation of resolution 20-14. #tc0915
  
• C Cass commending Pellegri for her comments; #tc0915 some of the heckling occurred during a requested moment of silence; showed lack of decency by those participating
  
• J Maciel (?) re: comments on the research she did regarding the zoning discussion; what is the cost? What are the qualifications of the MAPC? Confused by the actions and notes of the discussion around downtown parking #tc0915
  
• D Bardsley - sad about the blurred lines of opinions; #tc0915
  
• approval of mins from Aug 28 meeting; second, passes 8-0  #tc0915
  
• PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS a.Police Department:  i.Sergeant Lee Drake - Retirement  #tc0915 ( photos to be added )
• Sergeant Drake with Chief Lynch and State Rep Roy #tc0915
  
• Not to be out done, the Town Council also has a proclamation of recognition #tc0915 Chair Mercer presenting
  
• Sergeant Louis Marguerite - Promotion Chief Lynch provides intro, N Danello  swears Sgt in to office; pinned by family members (photos to be added) #tc0915
• Promotion photos as referenced #tc0915
  
• 5.APPOINTMENTS a. Janice Prentice - Associate member, Historical Commission   https://franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/5a._appointment_-_prentice.pdf…  motion to approve, second, passes 8-0  #tc0915
• b. Chuna Keophannga - Finance Committee   https://franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/5b._appointment_-_keophannga.pdf… motion to approve, second, passes 8-0  
• c. Tyrel Hansen - Finance Committee    https://franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/5c._appointment_-_hansen.pdf…  motion to approve, second, passes 8-0
• next up ->  a.  Franklin Shed, LLC d/b/a Franklin Shed, New Section 12 Restaurant, All Alcoholic Beverages, and approval of manager, located at 340 East Central Street, Franklin, MA.   https://franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/7a._web_franklin_shed.pdf… #tc0915 motion to approve, second, passes 8-0 via roll call
• two roll call votes, one to approve license, second to approve the pledge of license as collateral for loan from bank - both pass 8-0 #tc0915
  
• next up - SAFE Coalition, Jennifer Knight-Levine, Executive Director #tc0915
  
• Slides being talked to about SAFE #tc0915
  
• AWESOME, Jen Knight-Levine and SAFE are an incredible resource for this community and the surrounding coverage area #tc0915
  
• host community agreements are a complex mix but we do allocate funds for SAFE and will do more so as they become available. #tc0915
  
• Dellorco with great heartwarming story, Mercer in a short time (5 years) the development and the breadth of services is awesome #tc0915
  
• Next up Jen Delmore, Conservation Agent with an update on the weeds at DelCarte #tc0915 presentation copy https://franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/8b._delcarte_weeds_pres.pdf
  
• part way there with milfoil getting resolved;; chestnut still to be monitored and treated #tc0915 long term plan to clear the plants first, then get the invasive fish species, and settle it, before stocking with game and native fish
  
• subcommittee reports: EDC met this evening, next meeting Oct 20, discussion on town branding and wayfinding #tc0915
  
• a. Resolution 21-53: Gift Acceptance, Franklin Public Library $5,890, Veterans’ Service Department $300, Fire Department $200 (Motion to Approve Resolution 21-53 - Majority Vote) motion to approve, second, passes 8-0  #tc0915
  
• b. Bylaw Amendment 21-875: Chapter 82, Trash and Recycling Fee Increase - 2nd Reading (Motion to adopt Bylaw Amendment 21-875 - Majority Roll Call Vote)  https://franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/10b._21-875_trash.pdf…  motion to approve, second, passes (via roll call) 8-0
• no Town Administrator report tonight, future agenda items - Oct 6, School District to provide an update to Council on their Davis Thayer plans and timeline #tc0915 there will be an open house but no date available at this time
  
• councilor comments; Chandler - thanks for the increased participating; Hamblen, thanks for the presenters tonight, thanks for the zucchini racers; thanks for the Cultural Festival - Harvest Festival - Oct 2 (rain date Oct 3) #tc0915
  
• bike racks on Common, complete streets - Sep 22, 6:00 PM, at Farmers Mkt this Friday to gather info on improvements re: complete streets; #tc0915 incredible event, kudos to those who put this on - Kaye Kelly, Chair of Cultural Council
  
• MAPC is the Metropolitan Area Planning Council, they are highly professional and experienced in doing this kind of work #tc0915  MAPC will have a booth at the Harvest Festival Oct 2 to introduce new websites for feedback;
  
• pancake breakfast every 2nd Sunday at the Rod & Gun club - #tc0915 Cultural Festival, also at the Historical Museum for the speaker there, impressive, was recorded will be available for replay.
  
• Thanks to the Fire/Police Chiefs to come in to recognize the retirements and new hires; SAFE doing great things for our community. #tc0915  motion to adjourn, second, passes 8-0

 
Audio recording of meeting to be available in couple of days

 

one of the slides from the SAFE Coalition presentation