MassBudget: Examining Today's New Census Data on Income, Poverty, Children

Examining Today's Census Data on Income, Poverty, Children BOSTON - Sept. 14 - Showing the effects of a strong economy in 2016, new data from the U.S. Census finds that the median income (the income of the household at the midpoint of the income distribution) in Massachusetts increased 5.8 percent in 2016 and that poverty in the state declined significantly: from 11.5 percent to 10.4 percent. A new brief (PDF) from MassBudget finds the decline in poverty likely reflects both the overall strength of the state economy and increases in the state minimum wage that occurred in 2015 and 2016. "It's good news that incomes are up and poverty is down. But too many families in our state are still struggling. The state median wage remains below where it was in 2009, and more than one in eight children in our state live in poverty. The progress our state has made should encourage us to continue to work to expand opportunity and to help working families to become more economically secure." The new data from the Census also show a decline in child poverty. Improving the economic security of the families in which low income children are growing up has been shown to have long term positive effects for those children. A separate brief (PDF) released by MassBudget today, examines the implications of today's Census data for children. Read the new MassBudget brief examining today's Census data on income and poverty (PDF) Read MassBudget's new KIDS COUNT brief on the implication of today's data for kids (PDF) The Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center (MassBudget) produces policy research, analysis, and data-driven recommendations focused on improving the lives of low- and middle-income children and adults, strengthening our state's economy, and enhancing the quality of life in Massachusetts. MASSACHUSETTS BUDGET AND POLICY CENTER 15 COURT SQUARE, SUITE 700 BOSTON, MA 02108

Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center, 15 Court Square, Suite 700, Boston, MA 02108 Sent by nberger@massbudget.org in collaboration with Try it free today

Upcoming Events in Franklin, MA Area: FRI 9/15/17 - THU 9/21/17

FRIDAY 9/15/17
8am-12pm   Santa Foundation Golf Tournament @ Wentworth Hills Golf Club in Plainville
10:30am   REIKI Demo @ Franklin Senior Center
12-6pm   Franklin Farmers Market @ Town Common
8pm   Acme Jazz Quartet @ The Black Box

SATURDAY 9/16/17
7:30-10am   Hurricane Relief Fundraiser Pancake Breakfast (suggested donation: 1 non-perishable item and $10/person) @ Magnolia Heights
9am-1pm   Bottle/Can Drive to benefit FHS Boys Hockey @ Pirelli Veterans Arena
9am   Cracker-barrel Classic 5K Road Race @ Wrentham Developmental Center
10-1pm   Franklin Historical Museum Open
10am   Tinkergarten Free Trial Class (visit https://www.tinkergarten.com/leaders/nancy.hayden for details)
4-7pm   Beer Extravaganza - Fall Edition @ Pour Richard’s
8pm   Circle of Friends Coffeehouse: Phils Ochs Song Night @ FUSF

SUNDAY 9/17/17
10:00am   Bluegrass Worship Service at Franklin Federated Church
11am-4pm   Franklin Rotary Car Show @ Dean College
11am-5pm   FYSA Day at Dean College @ Dean College Longley Field
1-4pm   Franklin Historical Museum Open
1:15pm   Joe Landry: Remember When @ Franklin Historical Museum
3pm   LiveARTS: Victor Rosenbaum @ FUSF

MONDAY 9/18/17
8am-4pm   Dean College President’s Club Golf Tournament @ Franklin Country Club
7pm   Learn to Cope Franklin Chapter Meeting @ FUSF

TUESDAY 9/19/17
4-8pm   FSPA Open House @ 38 Main Street
6:30pm   College Planning Night for FHS’s Seniors Parents and Caregivers @ FHS
6:30pm   VA Home Loan - Home Buying Seminar @ VFW on Pond Street

WEDNESDAY 9/20/17
10am   Franklin Senior Center: Trivia Time @ Franklin Senior Center
11am   Franklin Senior Center: Skin Care and Repair @ Franklin Senior Center
6:30pm   Christian Zen Weekly Meditation @ McMahon Guest House (1061 Upper Union Street)

THURSDAY 9/21/17
10am   Franklin Senior Center: Card Making @ Franklin Senior Center
1-6pm   American Red Cross Blood Drive @ Elks Lodge
5-8pm   Franklin Historical Museum Open
7-8pm   Healing Hearts Community Support Group @ Franklin YMCA

For the Town of Franklin Public Calendar click HERE.

For all other events and Franklin happenings click HERE.

*To submit an event for the Community Calendar, please use this FORM

FTC Scam Alert: Equifax isn’t calling

Many Franklinites are likely among those affected by the Equifax breach (as I was). Hence, this is worthy of sharing!

Equifax isn't calling by Lisa Weintraub Schifferle Attorney, FTC, Division of Consumer and Business Education Ring, ring. "This is Equifax calling to verify your account information." Stop. Don't tell them anything. They're not from Equifax. It's a scam. Equifax will not call you out of the blue. Follow the link to read more This is a free service provided by the Federal Trade Commission.

---

Also from the Federal Trade Commission - What to do
https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2017/09/equifax-data-breach-what-do

FYSA & Dean College are teaming up for Dean Day - Sep 17

The Dean College coaches and players are going to run some short training sessions for our kids before their game at 2:00 PM. 

Additionally, New England Revolution players will be there from 11-12:30 to sign autographs and take pictures.



11:30 AM to 1:00 PM (Pregame)

• Beat Brutus, the Dean College mascot, in a 1 - on - 1 soccer skills matchup
• Free 45 minute training sessions with Dean College coaches and Franklin High School players
• Small sided games for our players - right on the field

1:00 PM to 3:30 PM (Match Preparation)

• On-field passes to watch, and help the Dean College Bulldogs with pre-game warmups
• Rally Tunnel and Dream team walkouts with the Dean College and St. Joseph's players during introduction.
• Dean VS. St Joe's ……. KICKOFF @ 2: PM !!
• Post match Q and A with Dean coaches and players

FYSA & Dean College are teaming up for Dean Day - Sep 17

Bluegrass Worship Service at Franklin Federated - Sep 17 - 10:00 AM

Franklin Federated Church is having a special Bluegrass Worship Service Sunday, Sept. 17, at 10 AM at the church at 171 Main Street.

Worship will feature Blackstone Valley Bluegrass, with Dave Dick on banjo, his brother Bob Dick on guitar, Dan Nowlan on mandolin and Ken Taylor on upright bass. 

This same lineup has been together since 1998. Find out more at: www.blackstonevalleybluegrass.com/. 

All are welcome at Franklin Federated Church! A staffed nursery is available for babies and toddlers, and Sunday school is offered for children in preschool through middle school. 

Activity kits are on hand in the church for children to use during worship. Large print bulletins and hearing assistance devices are also available, and there is an access ramp at the left side of the church. 

Find out more at franklinfederated.org or facebook.com/franklinfederated.

Bluegrass Worship Service at Franklin Federated - Sep 17 - 10:00 AM

MassBudget: Evidence on How Paid Leave Helps Working Mothers

Maintaining employment connections

Report Examines Effect of Paid Leave on Working Mothers Working parents are more economically secure when they can maintain an income while taking time away from their job to nurture and bond with a new child. One of the goals of paid family and medical leave (PFML) laws is to help new parents maintain an attachment to the labor force. MassBudget's new report, How Paid Family & Medical Leave Impacts Working Mothers, examines recent research including a study of the experience in California, which has the longest-standing and best-documented PFML program in the nation.  Examining the employment history of working mothers before and after the California PFML law took effect, the study finds that after the law, women were substantially more likely to be working a year after having a child than before the law. While new mothers who accessed the state's paid family leave program were out of the workforce in the short term, they were more likely to return to work and remain employed than those without access to PFML MassBudget's new report also examines the data on how often mothers are the primary or sole source of income in a family with children as well as the current availability of paid family and medical leave in New England. It also examines other outcomes in states with PFML laws, including the lengths of leaves taken and the effects on wages. MassBudget's new report can be read here. The Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center (MassBudget) produces policy research, analysis, and data-driven recommendations focused on improving the lives of low- and middle-income children and adults, strengthening our state's economy, and enhancing the quality of life in Massachusetts. MASSACHUSETTS BUDGET AND POLICY CENTER 15 COURT SQUARE, SUITE 700 BOSTON, MA 02108

Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center, 15 Court Square, Suite 700, Boston, MA 02108 Sent by nberger@massbudget.org in collaboration with Try it free today

"The funding restorations are sustainable"

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"Undeterred by tax collections that are trailing benchmarks two months into the fiscal year, the Legislature is half way toward restoring $275 million in spending that Gov. Charlie Baker vetoed from the annual budget. 

Without debate, the House on Wednesday voted to put back funding for the Tufts School of Veterinary Medicine, a big data fund, and rental assistance among dozens of other priorities. 

House Democrats needed just a few hours to speed through votes overriding a majority of the $320 million that Baker excised in July, when he signed a fiscal 2018 budget that he said had a $39.4 billion bottom line. The spending will be restored if Senate Democrats also agree to the overrides. 

House Republicans who voted to uphold Baker’s vetoes lacked the numbers to stop the overrides and did not seek to persuade Democrats with floor speeches."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required) 
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20170913/house-overrides-275-million-in-vetoes-by-baker

"The funding restorations are sustainable"

MassBudget: Today's Census release shows results of health care commitments

Affordable Care Act has made a difference across US

Today's Census Release Shows Results of Public Commitments to Health Care New MassBudget factsheet summarizes results New data released by the US Census today show the results of commitments made by our state and the nation to improving the health care security of our people. Massachusetts, which enacted comprehensive health reform in 2006, continued to lead the nation in the share of our population covered by health insurance. The Census report also shows that in the years since the Affordable Care Act took effect the share of people insured has increased substantially in states across the country. Today's Census report reflects data from 2016 and shows 97.5 percent of the Massachusetts population insured - and 99 percent of our children. It also shows that health insurance coverage has increased in every state in the country since 2013. As a new brief from MassBudget explains, health coverage increased most dramatically in those states that have taken advantage of the option to expand their Medicaid programs with additional funding provided by the Affordable Care Act. Our report "Documenting Success: Health Reform in Massachusetts and the Nation" also examines how the rate of uninsured in Massachusetts has steadily fallen over this decade. The Census also recently released the newest data on how the 50 states compare on state and local taxes. The data show that the share of state and local taxes in Massachusetts remains very close to the national average, though these taxes have fallen more since the 1970s than in almost any other state in the nation. Read our updated fact sheets, "Massachusetts is About Average for Taxes in FY 2015" and "Where Does the Taxachusetts Label Come From?" The Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center (MassBudget) produces policy research, analysis, and data-driven recommendations focused on improving the lives of low- and middle-income children and adults, strengthening our state's economy, and enhancing the quality of life in Massachusetts. MASSACHUSETTS BUDGET AND POLICY CENTER 15 COURT SQUARE, SUITE 700 BOSTON, MA 02108

Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center, 15 Court Square, Suite 700, Boston, MA 02108 Sent by nberger@massbudget.org in collaboration with Try it free today

Reminder: FHS Boys Hockey - Bottle and Can Drive - Sep 16

*** Bottle and Can Drive Saturday, September 16, 2017 ***

The Franklin High School boys hockey team is having their annual Bottle and Can Drive on Saturday, September 16th from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Veteran's Arena ice rink parking lot.

Any donation is much appreciated, so please save your returnable bottles and cans in support of the boys hockey program.

If you need (or would like) a separate bag to put them in, please comment and we will drop off as many as are needed.

Thank you!

FHS Boys Hockey - Bottle and Can Drive - Sep 16

FHS girls soccer, volleyball and golf teams post wins on Wednesday

From Hockomock Sports we share the results of the FHS falls sports results on Wednesday, Sep 13.

Boys Soccer = Franklin, 1 @ Foxboro, 2 – Final

– Foxboro’s Ryan Kelley had a hand in both of the Warriors goals, recording a goal and an assist in the win. Kelley scored the opener inside the first five minutes, smashing home a rebound on a shot from Cam Cass. Early in the second half, Kelley played Nic Beigel in, who finished his chance to make it 2-0. Franklin responded within five minutes to cut the deficit in half but Foxboro held on for two points.

Girls Soccer = Foxboro, 0 @ Franklin, 1 – Final

– In an even game, in which both teams had good scoring opportunities, the Panthers earned all two points thanks to a goal in the final minute by Calen Frongillo, assisted by Anna Balkus. A minute before the Franklin goal, the Warriors had a scoring chance of their own but were denied by a diving Cat Robbins save.

Field Hockey = Franklin, 1 @ Oliver Ames, 2 – Final

– Oliver Ames took a 2-1 lead before the halftime break and that was enough, with goalie Tigers’ Caitlin Grant recording eight saves in the win. Meaghan Rockey and Sarah Stevens each found the back of the net, both on assists from Cristina Boudreau. Franklin junior Ashley Reutlinger’s first goal of the season, on an assist from Cassi Ronan, tied the game in the first half before OA retook the lead. OA head coach Abby Tepper said Grant “played amazing in net” and also praised the defensive play of Sarah Tetrault.

Volleyball = Franklin, 3 @ Foxboro, 0 – Final

– Franklin picked up its second straight sweep, this time on the road at Foxboro. Riley Marino had 11 serve receptions, seven digs and three aces for the Panthers while FHS head coach Kate Horsmann said Lauren Lockhart had another smart hitting match, finishing with eight kills. Maggie Doyle added four kills, two blocks and an ace in the win.

Golf = Taunton, 191 @ Franklin, 164 – Final

For all the results around the Hockomock League on Wednesday
https://hockomocksports.com/wednesdays-schedule-scoreboard-091317/

FHS Panthers

Pour Richard's Beer Extravaganza - Sep 16 4-7 PM

What is a "Beer Extravaganza"?

30+ Beers and Ciders to sample, snacks, and hot music from local band Shift to Low. 

Saturday, September 16 4-7 PM. 

Free, but we are accepting donations to aid pets stranded in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey.

If you haven't been to Pour Richard's you can find it at 14 Grove Street in Franklin

Pour Richard's Beer Extravaganza - Sep 16 4-7 PM

Visit Pour Richard's on the web at
https://pourrichardswine.com/content/beer-extravaganza-fall-edition-0

Downtown Partnership: Magnolia Heights and NerdsToGo on Saturday, Rotary and Dean on Sunday

Pancakes for a good cause at Magnolia Heights

This Saturday, September 16, stop by Magnolia Heights Gracious Retirement Living for a delicious pancake breakfast. The breakfast runs from 7:30 AM to 10 AM. To RSVP, please call 508-520-3471.

Proceeds will benefit the Food Pantry and victims of the recent hurricanes. It's a sweet way to make a difference.

Pancakes for a good cause at Magnolia Heights

NerdsToGo Grand Opening is this Saturday

When you've had your fill of pancakes, head to NerdsToGo and celebrate this new Franklin business. Their Grand Opening celebration begins at 11 AM.


The NerdsToGo franchise is located at 205 East Central Street in Franklin. In typical NerdsToGo fashion the event will be fun for everyone in the community.

 NerdsToGo Grand Opening is this Saturday

Car Show this Sunday at Dean College Campus Center

The Franklin Rotary Club and Dean College will be hosting their first Annual Car Show for Charity and Community on Sunday, Sep 17

• Event Details
• September 17, 2017
• $15.00 per entry
• Show: 11:00 - 4:00p.m. at Dean College Campus Center, located at 109 West Street, Franklin, MA
• Judging at 3:00p.m.
• Trophies awarded for specified classes
• Dean College Dining Hall will be open for a Discounted Brunch
• Hamburgers and Hot Dogs, soda and water available for purchase
• Entertainment and DJ hosed by The DJ Car Guy

Car Show this Sunday at Dean College Campus Center

These were shared from the Franklin Downtown Partnership email

Franklin Resident Starts Political Group to Challenge Speaker's Power

Massachusetts Voters for Legislative Reform to Hold First Meeting on October 7th

Massachusetts Voters for Legislative Reform (MVLR) will hold its first organizing meeting on Saturday, October 7th at 1 p.m. at the Milford Town Library. "Our mission is to reduce the amount of power held by leadership on Beacon Hill," says founder Maxwell Morrongiello of Franklin.

Morrongiello started MVLR in response to the increasing consolidation of this power in the House of Representatives, which has grown steadily during the terms of the last four Speakers. "The enormous amount of power the Speaker has right now is simply undemocratic," says Morrongiello. "Leadership has almost absolute control as to what bills pass and which bills die. Decisions on legislation should be based on the will of the rank and file, not the will of one person." Morrongiello argues that the current power dynamic makes it easier for lobbyists to rig the system by targeting the few people in charge, having major effect on what legislation makes it out of the House.

Morrongiello referenced the fact that 64 lawmakers switched their votes on casinos after DeLeo took control of the House, and argued undue pressure from the Speaker prevented legislators from voting their conscience. "Our representatives should be working for us," expressed MVLR member Joyce Notine of Bellingham, "Instead they are working for the Speaker."

Morrongiello proposed potential solutions for reducing the influence of the Speaker, including stripping leadership's ability to make committee appointments, and placing that authority within a separate legislative body. Morrongiello hopes through grassroots organizing his group could nudge lawmakers to support future leadership who will empower the rank and file. Morrongiello acknowledged the toxicity of the issue his group is tackling. "Almost everyone on Beacon Hill knows that this is a serious issue, but they are paralyzed by the potential repercussions of speaking out. I hope that through organizing, those voices will finally have a chance to be heard."

The first MVLR meeting is open to the public. MVLR is a non-partisan effort. Interested parties can RSVP at mareform.com, and may sign up for email and Facebook updates at the same location.

Direct all inquiries to Maxwell Morrongiello at 508-318-8629 or at max@mareform.com

Franklin Resident Starts Political Group to Challenge Speaker's Power

“It’s going to be gorgeous”

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"The temporary library at 25 Kenwood Circle is full of excited librarians, bustling about and getting ready for their big move back into the Main Street location after 17 months of renovations and additions. 

Library Director Felicia Oti said most of the big moving will start on Monday. The library will stay open at its temporary location until Saturday. Oti said residents can expect the library to reopen on Main Street in about four weeks. 

“We’re so excited to be going back,” she said. “I am really grateful. Everyone on the Town Council, the town administrator, the community, was so supportive. It’s a dream.” 

Once the library reopens, all return fees will be waived for the first two weeks. No return bins will be available during the transition."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required) 
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20170913/franklin-librarians-prepare-to-move-back-to-main-street

brick patio with commemorative bricks. Did you buy one?

Live reporting: to Closing

K. Town Administrator's Report	K. Town Administrator's Report - Update on Town Council Goals biannual goals included in package new planning ahead in Jan after the election
L. Future Agenda Items	L. Future Agenda Items
M. Council Comments	M. Council Comments Dellorco - condolences to Nasuti family Bissanti - condolences to the Nasuit family Elks did a great job with the flag display to mark the 9/11 memorial Jones - enjoy seeing the swearing in ceremony new registered voter in the Jones household Pellegri - thoughts and prayers for Houston, Florida and the islands Padula - thoughts to his relatives in Naples Mercer - condolences to the Nasuti family Vallee - condolences to the Nasuti family Kelly - added to comments, also to the Carlucci family
N. Executive Session	N. Executive Session
O. Adjourn	O. Adjourn motion to adjourn