Yes, the Franklin Food Pantry is open during school vacation week

From the Franklin Food Pantry:

"Schools are closed next week, but we are still open for curbside distribution on Tuesday, February 22 at 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM and 5:30 - 6:30 PM and Friday, February 25 at 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM.  

Looking forward to seeing our neighbors!"

Shared from Facebook: https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=5272303559470882&id=105762322791724

An Update from Your Congressman Jake Auchincloss

Hello, I'm your representative in Congress, and I write to keep you informed. I want to share with you three significant developments since I last wrote.  Championing Gun Safety and Passing the COMPETEs Act  Following Gun Violence Survivors Week and ahead of the anniversary of the Parkland shooting, I became an original co-sponsor of two gun safety measures introduced in the House. The first, introduced by Congressman Andy Levin (D, MI-09), is the Protect Children Through Safe Gun Ownership Act, which will reduce the number of preventable firearm tragedies among children and teens. You can watch a press conference announcing the introduction of the bill HERE. I also became an original co-sponsor of the Trafficking Reduction and Criminal Enforcement (TRACE) Act, led by Congressman Mike Quigley (D, IL-05). This bill will help the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) reduce illegal firearms trafficking and make it harder for criminals to obtain deadly weapons. In addition to advocating for gun safety, the House of Representatives passed the America COMPETES Act of 2022, a generational investment in our economy, and our young and growing workforce. This legislation will build resilient supply chains, drive worker productivity by investing in research and development, and reinforce US global leadership in science and technology. I introduced a series of amendments to America COMPETES, all of which have passed as part of the bill. These amendments counteract vaccine disinformation from the Chinese Communist Party. They boost production of vaccine components to strengthen America's vaccine diplomacy, which I have advocated for and led on over the last year. And they contribute to economic development and humanitarian relief in Afghanistan, where we have a special responsibility to the Afghan people. You can hear more about my amendments HERE.  Recent Developments in Ukraine  Amid recent developments in Ukraine, I released a statement ahead of President Biden's meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Schol. Great nations keep their word. We must stand behind our promise to Ukraine to support its security as a sovereign nation. As the Administration continues to pursue a resolution through diplomacy, I remain committed in Congress to supporting democracies and standing with our NATO allies. This is a pivotal moment that requires a united front, or we risk the beginning of an era rife with conflict and tyranny. We must work towards a resolution that ensures our allies' safety, sovereignty, and democratic longevity.  At home in the district, I was able to host a listening session with Olga Lisovskaya, Vsevolod Petriv, Andrew Nynka, Tymish Holowinsky, Anna Lyczmanenko, Orest Hrabowych, and Walter Shuludko, local residents from the Ukrainian community who shared with me their thoughts on the issues facing Ukraine. I also participated in a press conference on Capitol Hill following a classified briefing with Administration officials. I will continue to engage on this issue as the situation develops. You can watch my latest interview on Ukraine - a conversation with Jim Braude on Greater Boston HERE.   Recent Stops in the District  I recently visited HUB Folding Box Company and CMT - Engineered Syntactic Systems, two 4th District businesses that represent some of the best of American manufacturing and innovation. We discussed the recently passed COMPETES Act and how making transformational investments in American manufacturing, research, and innovation will ensure that the next creators and innovators have the tools they need to succeed. I also had the pleasure of attending a Lunar New Year celebration at Newton's New Art Center, with New Art Executive Director Emily O'Neil, before heading to the Brookline Library to pick up a Lunar Year craft kit to take home to my family. During my visit, I spoke with state Rep. Tommy Vitolo, Brookline Select Board Chair Heather Hamilton, and library trustee Michael Burstein. Finally, I wanted to leave you with a video of my recent floor speech celebrating the career of Tom Brady, who brought pride and six Super Bowl victories to our district and to the fans of New England.  To stay up to date on the state of play in Congress, please make sure to like my Facebook page, follow me on Twitter, and follow me on Instagram.  Sincerely, Jake Auchincloss Member of Congress OFFICE LOCATIONS WASHINGTON DC OFFICE • 1524 Longworth House Office Building • Washington, DC 20515 • Phone: (202) 255-5931 NEWTON DISTRICT OFFICE • 29 Crafts Street Suite 375 • Newton, MA 02458 • Phone : (617) 332-3333 ATTLEBORO DISTRICT OFFICE • 8 N. Main St. Suite 200 • Attleboro, MA 02703 • Phone : (508) 431-1110   Click Here to view this email in your browser

Notice from DPW: Trash Completion to be conducted in the morning of February 19, 2022

Notice from DPW: Trash Completion for February 18, 2022

Notice from DPW:

Due to delays at the disposal location this week for trash our drivers are out of DOT hours for the day. We will be unable to complete about 1 hour of trash service. We will service this tomorrow morning (2/19/22).

Please see area in blue to the attached photo.

Shared from -> https://www.franklinma.gov/home/news/notice-dpw-trash-completion-february-18th-2022

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/news/6f1ca740-96ba-4f41-81a1-d071e50bbdaa.png

Franklin's Event Outlook: Feb 18, 2022 to Feb 24, 2022

A relatively quiet long weekend. The wind/rain will leave today and reportedly leave behind some cold and sunshine. Which we can live with. The Historical Museum is open. The Zajac Brothers Band appear at THE BLACK BOX on Saturday night.

 
Saturday, February 19
10:00am - Historical Museum (always free)
8:00pm - The Zajac Brothers Band

Sunday, February 20
1:00pm - Historical Museum (always free)

Monday, February 21
Presidents' Day

Find the full calendar  https://www.franklinmatters.org/p/blog-page.html

If you have an event to add to the calendar, you can use the form to submit it for publication:  https://forms.gle/oPdi8X3ZbHHyrHzo6

The Town meeting calendar is found  https://www.franklinma.gov/calendar

The School district calendar is found   https://www.franklinps.net/calendar-by-event-type/26

Community Calendar

School Committee Special Mtg - 02/16/22 (audio) responding to an OPML complaint and amending the mask policy

FM #732 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 732 in the series. 

This session of the radio show shares the Special School Committee meeting held Wednesday, Feb 16, 2022. 

There are two items on the agenda, one a response to an Open Meeting Law violation claim, and the second, the school district mask policy now that DESE has ended their state rule effect Feb 28, 2022.

Scheduled for 5 PM, the meeting actually begins at 5:26 PM and runs 55 minutes.

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

Meeting agenda->  https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/agendas/scagenda_2-16-22_special_mtg.pdf

My notes -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2022/02/recap-school-committee-meeting-responds.html 

Statement in response to OPML complaint

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2022/02/franklin-school-committee-statement-in.html

Copy of "Mask Considerations" doc 

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QG_vSyGZmiJ_UCGIVHVtVd4C4IHBz_ag/view?usp=sharing

Superintendent memo summarizes the new policy

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2022/02/school-committee-amends-policy-so-that.html

Photo album from the meeting (mostly screen grabs of the presentation doc)

https://photos.app.goo.gl/ujrUrvLuDaJV6YdK8

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

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"

School Committee Special Mtg - 02/16/22 (audio)

Franklin Downtown Partnership Announces 2022 Events and Meeting Dates

The dates for Franklin Downtown Partnership events and meetings during 2022 have been set.

• The Strawberry Stroll is back for the first time in two years since the pandemic. It is scheduled for Fri., June 10, with a rain date of Sat., June 11. 
• During this year’s Strawberry Stroll, the Franklin Downtown Partnership will also be unveiling the Ladybug Cultural & Historical Trail.
• The Harvest Festival is set for Sat., Oct. 1, with a rain date of Sun., Oct. 2.

“We are thrilled to be able to bring back both our signature events this year,” said Franklin Downtown Partnership Executive Director Lisa Piana. “It takes many volunteers and business sponsors to pull these events together and we’re grateful for their assistance.”

General meetings of the Partnership are scheduled  on April 7, June 2, Sept. 8 and Nov. 3. Meetings begin at 8:30 a.m., last one hour, and are held on Zoom.

Downtown Partnership

The Partnership works with the Franklin Garden Club to deck out the downtown with seasonal decorations. The 2022 Spring/Summer Beautification Day is scheduled for  Sat., May 21. The Autumn/Winter Beautification Day is Sat., Nov. 19. Groups are encouraged to volunteer and high school community service hours are available.

Sponsors are needed for the Partnership’s 2022 events. Please contact the Partnership office at downtown.franklin@yahoo.com if you’re interested in sponsorship.

The Franklin Downtown Partnership invites all Franklin businesses and residents to join the Partnership even if they are not located in the downtown area. Visit www.franklindowntownpartnership.org for more information.

The Partnership reminds residents to shop local to support our Franklin businesses. The Franklin Downtown Partnership is a nonprofit, 501©3 organization made up of more than 350 business owners, community leaders and residents working to stimulate economic development downtown and create a positive impact throughout the area.  

MIAA: D1 Track Meet on Saturday, Feb 19

Want tickets for the  D1 Indoor Track meet on Saturday?

Division 1 QR code for tickets on Saturday, Feb. 19 https://t.co/9gbVxKCBZD

Shared from Twitter: https://twitter.com/MIAA033/status/1493674871024402434

Division 1 QR code for tickets on Saturday, Feb. 19

Watch "Panther News: Friday, Feb. 18, 2022" on YouTube

Direct video link = https://youtu.be/-bBjCWbHxLs

or video embedded here

Hearts of Kindness update

"The hearts on the common project is back for Random Acts of Kindness Day. Each heart was decorated by one of our students as a reminder to keep kindness in mind. Shout out the FHS Community Service & Peer Mentor Club for assisting with set up 💗 https://t.co/0MEfukJPo8"

Shared from Twitter: https://twitter.com/FranklinPSNews/status/1494366552136765442

 

Hearts of Kindness update

 

The SAFE Coalition Hotline answered 94 calls for help in January 2022

Thinking about calling?

WE ARE HERE = 508-488-8105

For more info reach out to -> Info@safecoalitionma.org

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

The SAFE Coalition Hotline answered 94 calls for help in January 2022

Franklin Athletics: FHS participation at Rising Stars Meet

FranklinAthletics (@FHSSports) tweeted  Wed, Feb 16, 2022:

"Girls Track participated in the Rising Champions Meet held at Reggie in Boston. 

Caitlin Roberge won the high jump. 

Other scorers: 

Cara DiDomenico(300), 

Emma Pruitt (1000), 

Audria Hawkins (Mile), 

Kaitlyn Yelle (HJ) 

and 4x200 Relay: Maddie Damon, Maddie Pond, Cars DiDomenico & Caitlin Yelle"

Shared from Twitter: https://twitter.com/FHSSports/status/1493929897156395010

Also medaling at Rising Stars were: 

Tyler Apicella (5th Mile), 

Clancy Golden (5th 2Mile), 

Aidan Orr (5th 1000M), 

Fraser Baird (6th 400M),  

Audria Hawkins (6th Mile), 

Jared Schmidt (7th 55H), 

Harry Gurney (8th 55H)

Shared from https://twitter.com/FranklinXCTrack/status/1493988969440112643

Complete results from the Rising Stars meeting can be found -> 

https://dl.airtable.com/.attachments/a107c392969773f498582428611fe900/5fa8a6eb/risingstars.pdf

FHS Panthers

Franklin Fire announces receipt of grant of $9K

The Franklin Fire Department is excited to announce the receipt of this SAFE & Senior SAFE grant in the amount of $9,530 through @MassDFS. https://t.co/dgQGBvd03V

Shared from Twitter: https://twitter.com/FranklinMAfire/status/1494412543367991304

 

Franklin Fire announces receipt of grant of $9K

Franklin TV and wfpr.fm schedule for Friday, Feb 18, 2022

• wfpr.fm or 102.9 on the FM dial = Friday

9:00a/12:00p /6:00p Chapters – Jim Derick  Insightful, life-affirming stories and interviews

10:00a/1:00p/7:00p Music to Lift the Spirit - Jim Derick & Frank Falvey

11:00a/2:00p/8:00pm Senior Story Hour – Senior Center Scribblers Group

• Franklin All Access TV - Our Public Access Channel (Comcast 8, Verizon 26) = FRIDAY

7:00 am Norfolk County Prevention Coalition: L. E. A. P.
8:29:00 am Mass Department of Public Health: CO-VID 19
9:00:00 am Frank Presents: State House Pt. 2
10:00 am Physician Focus: Electronic Medical Records
11:00 am Senior Connection: Sleep
11:30 am Norfolk County Prevention Coalition: L. E. A. P.
12:00 pm Brook'n'Cookin: Waffles
12:30 pm Sandhya: Donuts
1:00:00 pm Mass Department of Public Health: CO-VID 19
1:30:00 pm Pizzapalooza: Healthy Pizza Crusts
2:00 pm New England Candlepins: Show 3
3:00 pm Franklin Art Association: Joyce McJilton Dwyer
7:00 pm SAFE Coalition: Woody Geissman
8:00 pm Senior Connection: Sleep
8:30 pm ArtWeek: Airmen of Note. 

• Franklin Pride TV - Our Educational Channel (Comcast 96, Verizon 28) = FRIDAY

7:00 am Public School Event: Lifelong Music Pt. 1 01-28-19

8:30 am It Takes A Village: Dementia

9:30 am FHS Varsity Wrestling: v King Philip 12-22-21

11:30 am FHS Girls Varsity Basketball: v St. Paul 02-07-22

1:30 pm Public School Event: FHS Winter Jazz Night '22

3:30 pm Public School Event: Jazz Cafe 02-07-20

5:00 pm FHS Boys Varsity Hockey: v Attleboro 02-10-22

8:30 pm Public School Concert: FHS Winter Music 2018

• Franklin Town Hall TV - Our Government Channel (Comcast 11, Verizon 29) =  FRIDAY

8:00 am Zoning Board of Appeals: 01-27-22

2:00 pm Zoning Board of Appeals: 01-27-22

Get this week's program guide for Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) online  http://franklin.tv/programguide.pdf     

Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm)

Recap: School Committee meeting - responds to open meeting law complaint; amends mask policy

Quick recap:

• (1) Statement in response to the Open Meeting complaint argues that there is no violation. References to the current Open Meeting Law, consultation with FPS attorney and Attorney General's office confirms position
• (2) Superintendent Ahern went through a presentation to summarize "Mask Considerations" copy provided below
• Questions and comments from the committee following the presentation, lead to a motion to amend the recommendation changing the date to March 14, it was not seconded so it died. Another motion was proposed to amend the date to March 7, it was seconded but failed by a 4-3 vote
• The recommendation ultimately passes by 7-0

Statement in response to OPML complaint

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2022/02/franklin-school-committee-statement-in.html

Copy of "Mask Considerations" doc 

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QG_vSyGZmiJ_UCGIVHVtVd4C4IHBz_ag/view?usp=sharing

Superintendent memo summarizes the new policy

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2022/02/school-committee-amends-policy-so-that.html

Photo album from the meeting (mostly screen grabs of the presentation doc)

https://photos.app.goo.gl/ujrUrvLuDaJV6YdK8

ThreadReader provides a PDF of my Twitter thread including the photos inline with the tweets (my notes - taken as the meeting progresses) copy here with link or embedded below:   https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_itSCMzPvtXrUcqaaKuCetpbHH8YhFxM/view?usp=sharing

Recap: School Committee meeting - 2/16/22

Electric Youth 2022 - debuts with 2 shows on Feb 26, 2022

Electric Youth 2022 debuts at THE BLACK BOX with two shows on Saturday, February 26th at 4:00 pm and 8:00 pm, offering high-powered family entertainment with music for all ages! Backed by an eight-piece band of world-class musicians, EY delivers high-energy music, including contemporary pop, classic rock and country hits. 

Electric Youth 2022, trained here at FSPA, includes Hayley Driscoll, Tatiana McAlpine, Sami Goldman, Abby Settle, Audrey Miningham, Devin DeAngelis, Finley Doherty, John Fitzhenry, Madigan Wirkus, Abby Trombert, Anya Fox, Ashley Pepin, Erin Belger, and Tzintli Cerda. 

The EY singer-dancers are backed by Boston musicians who’ve performed, recorded and toured with such music legends as Tony Bennett, Aretha Franklin, Dizzy Gillespie, B.B. King, Diana Ross, The Temptations and Van Morrison.

Don’t miss this exciting evening of timeless hits and non-stop entertainment!

Get your tickets for in person of remote participation ->

https://www.theblackboxonline.com/events.php?id=1532

Electric Youth 2022 - debuts with 2 shows on Feb 26, 2022