Monday, November 20, 2023

Starting with a bicycle story, we shift gears to cover climate topics around the region and cycle back to a key report (audio)

FM #1102 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1102 in the series. 


This session of the radio show shares my conversation with Ted McIntyre, Franklin resident and climate activist via the Zoom conference bridge Monday, November 13, 2023.  

In this episode we cover multiple topics from the release of the Hopper Report, we run through a series of articles from around New England, and then back to MA, covering what has been happening recently to close with some quotes from the Hopper Report.

Links to the many articles we talk of are collected in one PDF doc linked to below.   

This discussion continues our journey understanding the MA roadmap toward net zero and while it helps me “make sense of climate”, we hope it helps with your understanding as well. 

If you have climate questions or Franklin specific climate questions, send them in and we’ll try to answer them in a future session.  

The conversation runs about 47 minutes. Let’s listen to my conversation with Ted as we help ‘make sense of climate.’ Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1102-making-sense-of-climate-35-11-13-23



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Links to articles referenced for this episode are collected in one PDF -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fYRQvznj3SB1YU4NqXOR7NslMPM2gArf/view?usp=drive_link



** See the page that collects all the “Making Sense of Climate” episodes -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2022/02/making-sense-of-climate-collection.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.franklin.news/ or  www.Franklinmatters.org/ 


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"



Starting with a bicycle story, we shift gears to cover climate topics around the region and cycle back to a key report (audio)
Starting with a bicycle story, we shift gears to cover climate topics around the region and cycle back to a key report (audio)

Contestants and Parents Join Us at This Year’s KoC Free Throw Contest - Jan 13, 2024

Contestants and Parents Join Us at This Year’s Free Throw Contest

Great fun for contestants and fans. 

Winners will be declared after shooting sessions and invited to participate at the District Competitions!

Do you have what it takes?

Join us for this fun and rewarding event!!!

Date: Saturday January 13, 2024 - 9-11 AM 
Location: Hockomock YMCA, 45 Forge Hill Road Franklin 
Ages: Boys and Girls (9-14) Accompanied by A Parent - Register ->
 https://kofc1847.org/basketball-free-throw-contest





Contestants and Parents Join Us at This Year’s KoC Free Throw Contest - Jan 13, 2024
Contestants and Parents Join Us at This Year’s KoC Free Throw Contest - Jan 13, 2024


Franklin Cheerleading bring home D1 State Championship Trophy

Franklin Cheerleading (@FHScheer_) posted Sun, Nov 19, 2023:
"YOUR D1 2023 FALL STATE CHAMPS!! 
This team is so incredibly talented and it really showed on this mat today. 
All of their hard work paid off!!"
https://t.co/oIQKWPS5vX

YOUR D1 2023 FALL STATE CHAMPS
YOUR D1 2023 FALL STATE CHAMPS

Batla & Pink run at MIAA State Cross Country meet - Nov 18, 2023

FHS Cross Country sent Alex Batla and Jonathan Pink to the MIAA State Cross Country meet on Saturday. Alex's lost her shoe during the race and is shown carrying it on the curse to finish her race.


D1 Girls Race Results
 82  #943 Batla, Alexandra    12 Franklin                4:08.6   20:42.85 

D1 Boys Race Results
107  #191 Pink, Jonathan      11 Franklin                3:27.8   17:18.94

Download the complete MIAA D1 girls & boys results in one PDF

Shared via Twitter:
Coach Bailey (@FranklinHSXC) posted on Sat, Nov 18, 2023:
Live results from the Meet of Champions.

https://t.co/0kgtQiWGtN

Alex's lost her shoe during the race and is shown carrying it on the curse to finish her race
Alex's lost her shoe during the race and is shown carrying it on the curse to finish her race

onathan Pink to the MIAA State Cross Country meet
Jonathan Pink finishing the MIAA State Cross Country meet

495/MetroWest: Annual Conference 2023 -> "The Future of Transportation in 495/MetroWest"

Leaders from across our region are invited to join

The 495/MetroWest Partnership
For our 2023 Annual Conference
The Future of Transportation in 495/MetroWest

Featuring
  • Secretary and CEO of the Massachusetts Department of Transportation -> Monica Tibbits-Nutt
  • Speaker Pro Tempore of the Massachusetts House of Representatives -> Kate Hogan

Tuesday, December 12, 2023 from 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Village Hall on the Common
2 Oak Street, Framingham, MA 01701

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS -> https://www.495partnership.org/conference

Table Sponsorship Opportunities are still available; visit the link above for more information.

Senior Center highlights for the week of Nov 20 - 24, 2023

"What’s happening this week at the Senior Center? 
Squeeze in that last exercise class before it’s time for round two of pie! 
Get your stretchy pants ready for Turkey Day! 
What are you thankful for? 
The staff here at the senior center is thankful for each and every one of you who come in and make our day better."
Shared from  -> https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cz06z7Su5zr/

Senior Center highlights for the week of Nov 20 - 24, 2023
Senior Center highlights for the week of Nov 20 - 24, 2023

Holiday Happenings at The Creative Corner Studio

"‘tis the season! 
www.creativecornerartstudiofranklin.com Christmas and Hanukkah happenings.  
Come, check the studio out!"
Holiday Happenings at The Creative Corner Studio
Holiday Happenings at The Creative Corner Studio

Franklin TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) schedule for Monday, Nov 20, 2023

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

9 AM 12 PM and 6 PM Talkin’ the Blues – Jim Derick & Nick Remissong
2 hours of awesome blues music, info, interviews

11 AM 2 PM and 8 PM A More Perfect Union – Discussing American Politics and Current Events - Peter Fasciano, Dr. Michael Walker Jones, Dr. Natalia Linos, State Rep Jeff Roy, and Nick Remissong hold a round table discussion on current events and American politics, bringing about thoughtful conversation, compelling discourse, and a look at what the future might hold for the United States.

  • Franklin All Access TV - Our Public Access Channel (Comcast 6, Verizon 26) = MONDAY

9:00 am SAFE Coalition: Danny Lagarce
10:30 am Physician Focus: Winter is Coming
12:00 pm Brook'n'Cookin: Waffles
12:30 pm Franklin Harvest Festival 2023
1:00 pm Cooking Thyme: Appetizers
1:30 pm Pizzapalooza: Margherita Pizza
2:00 pm New England Candlepins: Summer 2018 Show 5
3:00 pm Candlepin New Generation: Show 7
3:30 pm Veterans' Call: PACT Act
4:30 pm Senior Connection: Senior Expo 2023
5:00 pm Winning Ways with the MIAA: Districts
5:30 pm Extended Play Sessions: Alice Wallace
8:00 pm Frank Presents: Daniela Masters Pt 2
9:00 pm Senior Scribblers

  • Franklin Pride TV - Our Educational Channel        (Comcast 8, Verizon 28) = MONDAY

8:00 am Girls Varsity Soccer Franklin v Hopkinton 11-11-23
10:00 am All-Town Showcase 2023: Band
11:30 am Public School Event: Horace Mann Winter Music 2021
1:30 pm Winning Ways with the MIAA: Districts
2:30 pm SAFE Coalition: New Facility
4:00 pm FHS Boys Varsity Soccer: v Needham 11-11-23
6:00 pm FHS Theater Company: Cinderella
8:30 pm FHS Varsity Football: v Natick 11-10-23

  • Franklin Town Hall TV - Our Government Channel (Comcast 9, Verizon 29) = MONDAY

8:00 am Planning Board: 11-06-23
11:00 am Finance Committee 11-08-23
2:00 pm Planning Board: 11-06-23
7:00 pm Planning Board: LIVE, Chambers  980 4312 8012


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

Sunday, November 19, 2023

Franklin Food Pantry Invites Community Support on #GivingTuesday

Demand for Food Assistance and Programs Continues to Increase as Winter Months Approach

The Franklin Food Pantry, which provides supplemental food assistance and programs in Franklin, is encouraging the community to support The Pantry through acts of giving and service on #GivingTuesday. The annual event occurs the Tuesday following Thanksgiving and inspires people to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity.  

In recent months, The Pantry has experienced a sharp increase in demand for food and services including weekend backpack meals for school children, holiday meal kits, and health and wellness items. By supporting The Pantry on #GivingTuesday, Franklin residents can make a lasting, positive impact in their immediate community.  

Franklin Food Pantry Invites Community Support on #GivingTuesday
Franklin Food Pantry Invites Community Support on #GivingTuesday
#GivingTuesday is an opportunity for everyone to reflect on their blessings, and pass that gratitude on to others in need,” said Tina Powderly, Executive Vice President, of Franklin Food Pantry. “The holiday season can be a time of tremendous stress for individuals and families experiencing food insecurity. By coming together, we can provide hunger relief that lasts throughout the new year.”

How to support the Franklin Food Pantry on #GivingTuesday:
  • Donate—Make a monetary donation and help provide food and goods to the more than 1,300 individuals and families who rely on The Pantry each year. In Norfolk County, the average cost for a meal is about $5. A donation of $20 helps a family of four start their day with breakfast, eat lunch at work or school, or provide a nutritious dinner at night. Recurring monthly donations to help The Pantry budget for everyday expenses are also available. Click HERE to donate
  • Show Support—Share support for the Franklin Food Pantry on social media channels. Share The Pantry’s posts or create original content that links to The Pantry website or #GivingTuesday donation page. Be sure to use #GivingTuesday.  
  • Volunteer—The Franklin Food Pantry has flexible volunteer options to meet almost everyone's desire to help. To volunteer, complete the online application and a volunteer coordinator will be in contact. Please note that availability for new Pantry volunteers will begin after the holiday season. For more information, click HERE.
  • Organize a Food or Fund Drive—Individuals, corporations, schools, churches, community groups, and other organizations can coordinate a food and fund drive using The Pantry’s online toolkit. Collected food and funds will help The Pantry provide assistance throughout the season and into the new year. 
#GivingTuesday takes place on November 28, 2023. To add a #GivingTuesday reminder to an online calendar, please click HERE. For more information or to learn about the Franklin Food Pantry, visit www.franklinfoopantry.org.

About the Franklin Food Pantry, Inc.
The Franklin Food Pantry, Inc. offers supplemental food assistance and household necessities to more than 1,300 individuals per year. The Franklin Food Pantry is not funded by the Town of Franklin. The Pantry partners with several organizations including the Greater Boston Food Bank to achieve greater buying power and lower costs. 
Donations and grants fund food purchases, keep lights on, and put gas in the Pantry truck. Programs include home delivery, a weekend backpack program for Franklin school children, mobile pantries, emergency food bags, and holiday meal packages. The Pantry is located at 341 W. Central St. in Franklin, Massachusetts on Route 140. Visit www.franklinfoodpantry.org for more information.


Franklin, MA Town Council schedules tax rate public hearing - Nov 21 at 6 PM

FRANKLIN TOWN COUNCIL
Agenda & Meeting Packet
November 21, 2023 - 6:00 PM

Meeting will be held at the Municipal Building
2nd floor, Council Chambers
355 East Central Street


1. ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM THE CHAIR
a. This meeting is being recorded by Franklin TV and shown on Comcast channel 9 and Verizon Channel 29. This meeting may be recorded by others. 
b. Chair to identify members participating remotely.
c. Town sponsored event announcements
2. CITIZEN COMMENTS
a. Citizens are welcome to express their views for up to three 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. PUBLIC HEARINGS - 6:00 PM
a. Franklin Tax Classification Hearing
i. Legislation for Action Items: 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4e
4. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
a. Resolution 23-66: Tax Classification Residential Factor
(Motion to Approve Resolution 23-66 - Majority Vote)
b. Resolution 23-67: Tax Classification Open Space Exemption
(Motion to Approve Resolution 23-67 - Majority Vote)
c. Resolution 23-68: Tax Classification Small Business Exemption
(Motion to Approve Resolution 23-68 - Majority Vote)
d. Resolution 23-69: Tax Classification Residential Property Exemption
(Motion to Approve Resolution 23-69 - Majority Vote)
e. Resolution 23-70: Tax Classification Senior Means Tested Exemption
(Motion to Approve Resolution 23-70 - Majority Vote)
5. ADJOURN

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


Franklin, MA Town Council schedules tax rate public hearing - Nov 21 at 6 PM
Franklin, MA Town Council schedules tax rate public hearing - Nov 21 at 6 PM

This Town Council Quarterbacking session condenses the meeting of Nov 15, 2023 (audio)

FM #1101 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1101 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 November 15, 2023


  • ok, what just happened? 

  • What does it mean for Franklin residents and taxpayers?


We cover the following key topics

Election/re-org

1. SWEARING IN OF TOWN COUNCIL

2. ELECTION OF OFFICERS – Town Council Chair, Vice-Chair & Clerk

3. ADOPTION OF TOWN COUNCIL PROCEDURES MANUAL

a. Resolution 23-60: Adoption of the Procedures Manual of the Franklin Town Council (Motion to Approve Resolution 23-60 - Majority Vote)


Resolution 23-65: Establishment by Town Council of Subcommittee for Review of Rules of Procedure of the Town Council (Motion to Approve Resolution 23-65 - Majority Vote)


A total of 3,126 voters cast ballots in this election, only 12% of the 24,474 registered Franklin voters.

Tri-County 1645 voted,  1329 yes, 516 no  6.8% of Franklin  6.4% over the Tri-County 11 communities


Discussion: Open Meeting Law, Public Records, Ethics and Conducting a Public Meeting - Mark Cerel, Town Attorney


DiVita’s Market – license transfer

transfer of Section 15 All Alcoholic Beverages Package Store License, Approval of Pledge of Liquor License, and Approval of Bhaveshkumar Patel as the Manager - Heeru Corporation d/b/a DeVita’s Market, Located at 198 East Central St., Franklin, MA 02038


Elks Riders

Presentation: Franklin Elks Riders Donation to Veterans’ Services Department, $1,000 donation


Legislation

a. Resolution 23-58: General Funds Appropriation, Transfers and Adjustments FY24 (Motion to Approve Resolution 23-58 - Majority Vote)


c. Bylaw Amendment 23-903: A Bylaw to Amend the code of the Town of Franklin at Chapter 82, Fees, Municipal Service - First Reading (Motion to Move Bylaw Amendment 23-903 to a Second Reading)


d. Bylaw Amendment 23-902: A Bylaw to Amend the Code of the Town of Franklin by Inserting Chapter 147, Snow and Ice, Removal Of - First Reading (Motion to Move Bylaw Amendment 23-902 to a Second Reading - ⅔ Majority Vote)


g. Resolution 23-63: Gift Acceptance - Veterans’ Services Department ($1,975)



Our conversation runs about 32 minutes. Let’s listen to this session of Town Council Quarterbacking recorded Nov 16, 2023. Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1101-town-council-quarterbacking-11-16-23




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Franklin TV video link -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=04-9DhPNSzU&t=5132s 


Town Council agenda doc ->  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/nov15_2023_town_council_agenda.pdf  


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


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 your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"


This Town Council Quarterbacking session condenses the meeting of Nov 15, 2023 (audio)
This Town Council Quarterbacking session condenses the meeting of Nov 15, 2023 (audio)