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Monday, February 10, 2020
Protect Yourself from Social Security Scams
In the News: "a good start"
From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200209/franklin-rep-roy-on-board-with-career-technical-initiative-concept
"A proposal from Gov. Charlie Baker to close a gap in skilled technical workers is a good start but needs funding, recruitment and capacity if it is to succeed, according to a local lawmaker and school administrators.Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
In its fiscal 2021 budget proposal submitted last month, the Baker administration proposed approximately $15 million to launch Career Technical Initiative, a multi-year investment to train an additional 20,000 skilled workers over the next four years by offering three teaching shifts a day at local vocational schools.
Aligned with the executive offices of education, economic development, housing, and labor and workforce development, Baker’s Workforce Skills Cabinet aims to provide career training opportunities not only for students enrolled in vocational schools but also for traditional high school students and adults.
“I like the concept certainly because I know that we definitely could use more skilled workers, and I think this concept would certainly address that issue,” said Rep. Jeffrey Roy, D-Franklin."
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200209/franklin-rep-roy-on-board-with-career-technical-initiative-concept
Sunday, February 9, 2020
FM #202 - Economic Development Subcommittee - Feb 5, 2020 (audio)
FM #202
This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 202 in the series, that we are now producing in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm).
The Economic Development Subcommittee chaired by Councilor Melanie Hamblen met on Wednesday, Feb 5, 2020 at 5:30 PM.
Town Administrator Jamie Hellen, Councilor Andy Bissanti (member), Councilor Glenn Jones (member), Community Development and Planning Director Bryan Taberner and Councilor Eamon Earls (member - arrived late) spoke during the meeting. Assistant to Town Administrator Chrissy Whelton, Admin Assistant Alicia Alleyne, and Joseph Halligan (Vice-Chair Planning Board) participated but did not speak.
Town Council Chair Tom Mercer was also present for part of the meeting but did not actively participate to avoid the Open Meeting Law requirements (can’t have more than 4 Councilors in a meeting without having a Town Council agenda posted).
Discussion items
1. EDC Goals Prioritization Review
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/2020-02-05_edc_agenda.pdf
Without further ado, here is the recording for the meeting approx 80 minutes
https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/HB2FWC9X
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This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but I can't do it alone. I can always use your help.
How can you help?
Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements.
Thank you for listening.
For additional information, please visit 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!
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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"
Economic Development - To the EDC
You can find the full agenda doc (including the plot line proposal map)
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/2020-02-05_edc_agenda.pdf
The Economic Development page referenced during the meeting
https://www.franklinma.gov/economic-development
This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 202 in the series, that we are now producing in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm).
The Economic Development Subcommittee chaired by Councilor Melanie Hamblen met on Wednesday, Feb 5, 2020 at 5:30 PM.
Town Administrator Jamie Hellen, Councilor Andy Bissanti (member), Councilor Glenn Jones (member), Community Development and Planning Director Bryan Taberner and Councilor Eamon Earls (member - arrived late) spoke during the meeting. Assistant to Town Administrator Chrissy Whelton, Admin Assistant Alicia Alleyne, and Joseph Halligan (Vice-Chair Planning Board) participated but did not speak.
Town Council Chair Tom Mercer was also present for part of the meeting but did not actively participate to avoid the Open Meeting Law requirements (can’t have more than 4 Councilors in a meeting without having a Town Council agenda posted).
Discussion items
1. EDC Goals Prioritization Review
an extended discussion around the items on the Town Council goals listing that were aligned for the EDC and a few others added to it which you'll hear during the discussion2. Lot Line Clean up #3: Areas near Pleasant, Chestnut & Brook Streets
a continuation of the plot line clean up effort so each plot would be contained within a single zone as opposed to being split over a couple of themGet a copy of this agenda on the Town of Franklin page
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/2020-02-05_edc_agenda.pdf
Without further ado, here is the recording for the meeting approx 80 minutes
https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/HB2FWC9X
-------------
This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but I can't do it alone. I 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 this, please let me know
Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements.
Thank you for listening.
For additional information, please visit 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"
Town Council Meeting
2020 and 2021 Goals
Town Council Workshop
January 8, 2020
EDC List
Economic Development - To the EDC
- Revise Solar Bylaw in Residential districts - in process.
- Continue Lot Line "Clean ups" around town - in process.
- Zoning Changes
- lnclusionary Zoning bylaw proposal to stabilize the Town's Affordable Housing Inventory with the state to ensure we maintain 10% affordable housing stock and preserving local zoning -- March 4th EDC
- Master Plan Update before the Council -- Expected June/July 2020
- Draft and Adopt state Affordable Housing Plan
- Residential 5 and C-1 density
- The Franklin Crossing Neighborhood District rezone
- Approve Snow Removal bylaw on sidewalks - To review per TC April/May
- Present Economic Profile to the Town Council - EDC to evaluate or implement ideas based off of the recommendations in the final report - Tentative March Presentation
- Ferrara Parking Lot Lease for continued commuter rail and free municipal parking in downtown -- in process.
- Nu-Style (Grove Street) options
- Review BioTechnology Bylaw (EDC)
- Analyze Food requirement and closing hours for restaurants (EDC)
- Review and cleanup Marijuana Overlay District
- Revise Over 55 Overlay, including open space requirement (EDC)
- Monitor Mixed Innovation Business District (EDC)
- MBTA parking Lot in Downtown
You can find the full agenda doc (including the plot line proposal map)
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/2020-02-05_edc_agenda.pdf
The Economic Development page referenced during the meeting
https://www.franklinma.gov/economic-development
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| FM #202 - Economic Development Subcommittee - Feb 5, 2020 (audio) |
Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - Feb 11, 2020
Vision Statement
The Franklin Public Schools will foster within its students the knowledge and skills to find and achieve satisfaction in life as productive global citizens.
A G E N D A
“The listing of matters are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair which may be discussed at the meeting. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by law.”
I. Routine Business
A. Review of Agenda
B. Citizen’s Comments
In the spirit of open communication, “the Committee will hold a public participation segment (also called Citizen’s Comments) about matters not related to an agenda item at the beginning of each regular School Committee meeting. The Committee will listen to, but not respond to any comment made…. A Committee member may add an agenda item to a future meeting as a result of a citizen comment…. The Committee will hear public comments related to an agenda item when the Chair deems appropriate during the Committee meeting. Topics for discussion during the meeting must be limited to those items listed on the Committee meeting agenda for that evening…. ” - from Policy BEDHC. FHS Student Representative Comments
D. Superintendent’s Report
II. Guests/Presentations
A. Jefferson Grade 5 Murals Presentation
B. Technology Presentation
C. DIP Goal #1 Update – SEL
III. Discussion/Action Items
A. Policy – 2nd Reading/Adoption
I recommend adoption of Policy EEAE – School Bus Safety as discussed.
IV. Discussion Only Items – none
V. Information Matters
A. School Committee Sub-Committee Reports (e.g. Ad Hoc Supt. Evaluation, Ad Hoc Facilities Analysis, Budget, Community Relations/Public Schools Advocacy, Policy, Transportation)
B. School Committee Liaison Reports (e.g. Joint PCC, Substance Abuse Task Force, School Wellness Advisory Council)
VI. New Business
A. To discuss any future agenda items
VII. Consent Agenda
A. Approval of Minutes
I recommend approval of the minutes from the January 28, 2020 School Committee meeting as detailed.
B. Transfers
I recommend approval of the budget transfers as detailed.
C. Music Gift
I recommend acceptance of two checks totaling $4,264.00 from Franklin Music Parents for in-house enrichment as detailed.
D. Oak Street Gift
I recommend acceptance of two checks totaling $1,145.00 from the Oak Street PCC for in-house enrichment as detailed.
E. MA All State Music Festival Trip (recurring)
I recommend approval of the request of Diane Plouffe to take music students to the MA All State Music Festival in Boston, MA on March 5 – 7, 2020 as detailed.
F. Baseball Field Trip (recurring)
I recommend approval of the request of Mr. Peri to take FHS student athletes to Cooperstown, NY from April 19 – 20, 2020 as detailed.
G. Parmenter Gift
I recommend acceptance of a check for $800.00 from the Parmenter PCC for field trips as detailed.
H. Davis Thayer Gift
I recommend acceptance of a check for $5,000.00 from the Davis Thayer PCC for field trips as detailed.
I. Annie Sullivan Gift
I recommend acceptance of a check for $1,000.00 from the Annie Sullivan PCC for in-house enrichment as detailed.
J. ECDC Gift
I recommend acceptance of a check for $1,000.00 from the Franklin Cultural Council for in-house enrichment at ECDC as detailed.
K. Keller Gr. 5 RW Zoo Field Trip
I recommend approval of the recurring Keller Grade 5 field trip to Roger Williams Zoo in Providence, RI on May 7, 2020 as detailed.
L. 3rd Grade Music Field Trip
I recommend approval of the recurring JFK/Parmenter 3rd Grade field trip to The Veteran’s Auditorium in Providence, RI on May 19, 2020 as detailed.
VIII. Payment of Bills Dr. Bergen
IX. Payroll Ms. D’Angelo
X. Executive Session
Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(3) to discuss strategy with respect to collective bargaining with the FEA unit as an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the bargaining position of the School Committee and the chair so declares.
XI. Adjournment
The documents released for this meeting can be found online. Some documents will be posted after the meeting.
https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee/pages/february-11-2020-school-committee-packet
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| "Another detail shot of the Jefferson Elementary mural.... books parachuting from an airplane" |
Another detail shot of the Jefferson Elementary mural.... books parachuting from an airplane. @JeffersonLabs pic.twitter.com/1jpr8jDEk7— thesmilemovement (@smileproject) February 6, 2020
Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - Feb 12, 2020
1. ANNOUNCEMENTS
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.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
- None
4. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS
Firefighter/Paramedic: Michael McConaghy
5. APPOINTMENTS
- None Scheduled
6. HEARINGS - 7:10pm
Zoning Changes:
20-849: Changes to Ground-Mounted Solar Energy System Use Regulations and Use Regulations Schedule Updates
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/mai/files/20-849_hearing.pdf
20-850: Zoning Map Changes On Or Near Highland, Maple and Lincoln Streets
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/mai/files/20-850_hearing.pdf
20-851: Zoning Map Changes On Or Near Oak Street and Dailey Drive
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/mai/files/20-851_hearing.pdf
7. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS
- None Scheduled
8. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS
a. Housing Authority - Lisa Audette, Executive Director, Franklin Housing Authority
b. Transitional Assistance Discussion - Franklin Senior Center
9. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
a. Capital Budget Subcommittee
b. Budget Subcommittee
c. Economic Development Subcommittee
10. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
10a. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Bylaw 20-847 As Amended: New Chapter 130, Plastic Checkout Bag Prohibition - Second Reading (Motion to Adopt Bylaw Amendment 20-847 As Amended: Chapter 130, Plastic Checkout Bag Prohibition - Majority Roll Call Vote)
10b. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Bylaw Amendment 20-852: Chapter 82, Municipal Service Fees - Second Reading (Motion to Adopt Bylaw Amendment 20-852: Chapter 82, Municipal Service Fees - Majority Roll Call Vote)
10c. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 20-12: Gift Acceptance Franklin Police Department - $10,000 (Motion to approve Resolution 20-12 - Majority Vote)
10d. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 20-13: Gift Acceptance Franklin Fire Department - $10,000 (Motion to approve Resolution 20-13 - Majority Vote)
10e. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Zoning By-Law Amendment 20-849: Changes to Ground-Mounted Solar Energy System Use Regulations, And Use Regulations Schedule Updates- First Reading (Motion to move Zoning Bylaw Amendment 20-849 to a second reading - Majority Vote)
10f. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Zoning By-law Amendment 20-850: Zoning Map Changes On Or Near Highland, Maple and Lincoln Streets- First Reading (Motion to Move Zoning Bylaw Amendment 20-850 to a second reading - Majority Vote)
10g. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Zoning By-law Amendment 20-851: Zoning Map Changes On Or Near Oak Street and Dailey Drive - First Reading (Motion to Move Zoning Bylaw Amendment 20-851 to a second reading - Majority Vote)
10h. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 20-14: The Town of Franklin Civil Discourse Pledge (Motion to approve Resolution 20-14 - Majority Vote)
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/mai/files/20-14_franklin_web.pdf
11. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT
12. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
13. COUNCIL COMMENTS
14. EXECUTIVE SESSION
- None Scheduled
ADJOURN
Note:
Two-Thirds Vote: requires 6 votes
Majority Vote: requires majority of members present and voting
The agenda and docs released for this meeting can be found in one PDF
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/2020-02-12_tc_agenda_web.pdf
Individual docs may be available on the Town of Franklin agenda page
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-council/agenda/february-12-town-council-agenda
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| beaver damage at DelCarte observed recently |
FHS girls basketball and girls hockey teams post wins on Saturday
Via HockomockSports.com and Twitter, we share the results of FHS winter sports action on Saturday
Girls Basketball = Franklin, 52 vs. Holy Name, 43 – Final
– In a potential playoff preview, the Panthers held off a second half charge from Holy Name to sweep the season series against the Div. 1 Central challenger. Franklin jumped out to a 34-18 lead at halftime, but the Naps rallied after the break to cut the lead to as little as five. The Panthers shut down the visitors over the final four minutes to extend the lead back out to nine. Ali Brigham led the way with 20 points and Olivia Quinn added 12. Megan O’Connell chipped in with eight points for the Panthers.
Wrestling
Indoor Track
Girls Hockey = Mansfield/Oliver Ames, 1 @ Franklin, 3 – Final
Josh Perry, Managing Editor of HockomockSports.com, provides the game recap:
Continue reading the game recap
https://hockomocksports.com/lewandowski-lifts-franklin-girls-hockey-past-moa-and-into-playoffs/
For a Photo Gallery from this game
https://hockomocksports.smugmug.com/2019-2020/Winter-2019-2020/Franklin-MansfieldOliver-Ames-Girls-Hockey-2-8-20/
For other results around the Hockomock League
https://hockomocksports.com/saturdays-schedule-scoreboard-02-08-20/
Girls Basketball = Franklin, 52 vs. Holy Name, 43 – Final
– In a potential playoff preview, the Panthers held off a second half charge from Holy Name to sweep the season series against the Div. 1 Central challenger. Franklin jumped out to a 34-18 lead at halftime, but the Naps rallied after the break to cut the lead to as little as five. The Panthers shut down the visitors over the final four minutes to extend the lead back out to nine. Ali Brigham led the way with 20 points and Olivia Quinn added 12. Megan O’Connell chipped in with eight points for the Panthers.
Wrestling
At state duals today with a great start to the day with a 60-19 win over Westford Academy. Pins by Fracassa, Sauer, Sackley, Nawn, Jacoby, and Leofanti. @FHSSports— Franklin Wrestling (@FHSWrestle) February 8, 2020
Tough 42-32 loss to West Springfield. Pins by Carlucci, Sackley, Nawn, and Leofanti.— Franklin Wrestling (@FHSWrestle) February 8, 2020
Indoor Track
Strong work today at Hocks!! Girls came in 5th as a team with 47 points‼️💪🏼 Lots of places and strong individual performances pic.twitter.com/NDdYNLKtPA— Franklin Girls T&F (@FHS_girlsXC) February 8, 2020
Boys end Hocks placing 6th (44 points)🔥Places in:— FHS Boys XC+TF (@FHSPanthersTF) February 8, 2020
600: Harrington (3rd), Hanley (6th)
1000: Calitri (2nd)
2 Mile: Brogan (2nd)
4x2: Ellis, Hammann, Flaherty, Cummings (3rd)
4x4: Harrington, Calitri, Hanley, Brogan (2nd)
4x8: Sieczkiewicz, Powderly, Zielinski, Scagliarini (4th)
Girls Hockey = Mansfield/Oliver Ames, 1 @ Franklin, 3 – Final
Josh Perry, Managing Editor of HockomockSports.com, provides the game recap:
"Sometimes goal-scoring is about being in the right place at the right time and for the second time this season Franklin’s Amanda Lewandowski found herself in the right spot to score a game-winning goal against Mansfield/Oliver Ames.
Lewandowski was left alone on the far post to tap in the game-winning, power play goal with just under six minutes remaining in Saturday evening’s league encounter at Pirelli Veterans Arena. Franklin added an empty net goal in the final minute to beat the Warriors 3-1, sweeping the season series, and in the process clinching at least second place in the league and a postseason berth.
“She’s that player that’s always on,” said Franklin coach Margie Burke about Lewandowski. “Every game this season has been tough and always against this team. They always come to play.”
Both meetings between the Warriors and Panthers have been tight, low-scoring, and evenly-matched. In games like that, one lapse can prove decisive and that is what happened to the Warriors on Saturday."
Continue reading the game recap
https://hockomocksports.com/lewandowski-lifts-franklin-girls-hockey-past-moa-and-into-playoffs/
For a Photo Gallery from this game
https://hockomocksports.smugmug.com/2019-2020/Winter-2019-2020/Franklin-MansfieldOliver-Ames-Girls-Hockey-2-8-20/
For other results around the Hockomock League
https://hockomocksports.com/saturdays-schedule-scoreboard-02-08-20/
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| Franklin junior forward Amanda Lewandowski scored a pair of goals, as the Panthers beat 3-1 to clinch at least second place in the Hock. (Josh Perry/HockomockSports.com) |
Community Preservation Act (CPA) Presentation
Community Preservation Act (CPA) Presentation
The Community Preservation Act was passed in 2000 to help communities empower themselves to raise a dedicated revenue source for the purposes of open space preservation, historic preservation, affordable housing and recreation.
On February 5, Town Administrator, Jamie Hellen, gave a presentation at the Town Council meeting showcasing the benefits that could arise from Franklin Adopting the Community Preservation Act. Please Click on the Links below for more information!
- **CPA Presentation - Presented by Jamie Hellen**
- Memo - Jamie Hellen CPA Presentation
- CPA Adoption Process
- General CPA Information
Quincy City Councilor-At-Large Noel DiBona Announces Candidacy for Norfolk County Register of Probate
Quincy City Councilor-at-Large Noel DiBona officially announced his candidacy for Register of Probate of Norfolk County last week. DiBona who began his political career in 2013 as a Quincy School Committee member, has served as a Quincy City Councilor-At-Large since 2016, and has been elected to three consecutive terms.
DiBona has been a small business owner in Quincy for the last 24 years, managing Russ DiBona & Son Landscape & Snow. DiBona graduated from Quincy High School in 1993, and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology and Business Administration from the University of Massachusetts-Boston.
DiBona has been employed by the Norfolk County Sheriff’s office since 2016, where he currently serves as re-entry program coordinator for inmates. DiBona previously served as a senior community services coordinator for the Sheriff’s office, assisting senior citizens in scam and fraud prevention at facilities for the elderly throughout Norfolk County. If elected as the Register of the Probate, DiBona plans to improve all services provided by the court, and pledges to be a consistent strong advocate for attorneys, judges, clients, and citizens.
“I am seeking the seat as the Register of Probate of Norfolk County because I have a strong desire to serve and assist others. Virtually everyone will encounter an experience with probate, whether it is a birth, a death, or divorce. Your experience with the court should be managed with compassion and empathy. I will apply my business management background to the official record keeping and customer service areas of the court to ensure that the public always has the best experience possible, especially during tough times” Said DiBona.
“The decision to run for Norfolk County Register of Probate has been a family decision. Following discussions with my wife, Niamh, and other family members we collaboratively decided that I should seek the seat and they are all 100% behind the decision”. Added DiBona.
DiBona will be running as a Democrat. The primary election is set for Tuesday, September 1st and if successful in the primary, the final election will be on November 3rd. The Committee to Elect Noel DiBona will be holding a Kickoff Reception event at Alba Restaurant at 1486 Hancock St. in Quincy Center on Thursday, February 27 from 5:00-8:00 PM, and members of the public are encouraged to attend.
DiBona has been a small business owner in Quincy for the last 24 years, managing Russ DiBona & Son Landscape & Snow. DiBona graduated from Quincy High School in 1993, and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology and Business Administration from the University of Massachusetts-Boston.
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| Noel DiBona |
DiBona has been employed by the Norfolk County Sheriff’s office since 2016, where he currently serves as re-entry program coordinator for inmates. DiBona previously served as a senior community services coordinator for the Sheriff’s office, assisting senior citizens in scam and fraud prevention at facilities for the elderly throughout Norfolk County. If elected as the Register of the Probate, DiBona plans to improve all services provided by the court, and pledges to be a consistent strong advocate for attorneys, judges, clients, and citizens.
“I am seeking the seat as the Register of Probate of Norfolk County because I have a strong desire to serve and assist others. Virtually everyone will encounter an experience with probate, whether it is a birth, a death, or divorce. Your experience with the court should be managed with compassion and empathy. I will apply my business management background to the official record keeping and customer service areas of the court to ensure that the public always has the best experience possible, especially during tough times” Said DiBona.
“The decision to run for Norfolk County Register of Probate has been a family decision. Following discussions with my wife, Niamh, and other family members we collaboratively decided that I should seek the seat and they are all 100% behind the decision”. Added DiBona.
DiBona will be running as a Democrat. The primary election is set for Tuesday, September 1st and if successful in the primary, the final election will be on November 3rd. The Committee to Elect Noel DiBona will be holding a Kickoff Reception event at Alba Restaurant at 1486 Hancock St. in Quincy Center on Thursday, February 27 from 5:00-8:00 PM, and members of the public are encouraged to attend.
Court Stops Sprawling Scheme that Operated Hundreds of Websites that Deceived Consumers About Government Services
Court Stops Sprawling Scheme That Operated Hundreds of Websites That Deceived Consumers About Government Services
Defendants made millions of dollars from sites that overwhelmingly mislead consumersA court has granted the Federal Trade Commission's request to preliminarily halt a scheme in which the defendants operated hundreds of websites that promised a quick and easy government service, such as renewing a driver's license, or eligibility determinations for public benefits. Following an evidentiary hearing, the court held that the FTC was likely to prevail in proving that "the websites were patently misleading."
The FTC's filings in the case allege that consumers provided their information because they believe the websites will actually provide these services. Instead, consumers received only a PDF containing publicly available, general information about the service they sought.
Documents filed by the FTC allege that the defendants' sites employed similar branding, language, and functionality to induce consumers to relinquish their credit card information, personal data, or both.
State Licensing Sites
According to the complaint, the defendants operated sites like DMV.com, which offers links for driver's services in all 50 states and presents itself as a clearinghouse for many types of DMV-related services, from licensing to driving records, under the heading "Online DMV Services." Other sites operated by the defendants included floridadriverslicense.org, coloradodriverslicenses.org, californiadrivers.org, and texasdriverslicenses.org.
The defendants used search-engine advertising and search-engine optimization to target consumers who search for state motor-vehicle or licensing services online. The FTC's complaint alleges that in the spring and summer of 2019, entering the phrases "renew Florida drivers license online" and "get fishing license" into online search engines brought up the defendants' sites as either the first- or second-listed link.
According to the complaint, after consumers submitted payment, in some instances, the sites simply linked back to the landing page, and the consumer received nothing. In other instances, the consumer received an email containing a link to a downloadable PDF with general, publicly available information.
The FTC alleges that the defendants' sites did not deliver the promised services.
Public Benefits Sites
Documents filed by the FTC further allege that the defendants also operated dozens of websites that promise to verify consumers' eligibility for public benefits. These sites appeared high in search results or sponsored links when consumers searched for ways to obtain public benefits.
The defendants' public benefits sites offered to help consumers seeking government programs, such as housing assistance, food stamps, Medicaid, or unemployment benefits. According to the complaint, the sites solicited certain core pieces of personal information from consumers, including, but not limited to, their full name, address, date of birth, gender, telephone number, and email address.
According to the complaint, the sites also asked consumers about various sensitive topics, including their employment status, income range, social security eligibility, health insurance, credit-card debt, and health conditions. The FTC alleges that consumers who provided all the requested information on the defendants' public benefits websites did not receive the promised eligibility determination.
According to the complaint, after providing information on the defendants' public benefits websites, consumers almost immediately began receiving marketing emails from the defendants and third parties. Consumers also started receiving text messages containing marketing offers from the defendants and third parties. The emails and texts contained various marketing offers, including job-search assistance, free gift cards, and home buyer grants. The complaint alleges that the defendants received millions of dollars from selling the personal data they collected from consumers through deceptive marketing.
The FTC complaint names as defendants Burton Katz, Brent Levison, Robert Zangrillo, Arlene Mahon, and Elisha Rothman, along with more than fifty companies they own and control.
The Commission vote authorizing the staff to file the complaint was 5-0. The complaint was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida.
NOTE: The Commission files a complaint when it has "reason to believe" that the named defendants are violating or are about to violate the law and it appears to the Commission that a proceeding is in the public interest. The case will be decided by the court.
The Federal Trade Commission works to promote competition, and protect and educate consumers. You can learn more about consumer topics and file a consumer complaint online or by calling 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357). Like the FTC on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, read our blogs, and subscribe to press releases for the latest FTC news and resources.
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| Federal Trade Commission |
Saturday, February 8, 2020
Franklin Residents: Job Opportunities with Senior Center, DPW, Facilities, Fire Dept
Job Opportunities
To apply for a vacant position, please submit a resume and cover letter to apply@franklinma.gov. Please put the job title in the subject line of your email.
To receive notifications of all job opportunities in the Town of Franklin, subscribe here
http://www.franklinma.gov/subscribe
- Senior Center Director
- Motor Equipment Repair Person (Mechanic) - Department of Public Works
- ON CALL SNOW SHOVELERS - Come work on an on call basis for the DPW and help us keep school and town sidewalks clean!
- Part-Time and Substitute Custodian positions - Facilities Department
- Firefighter/Paramedics - The Town of Franklin's Fire Department is in the Massachusetts Civil Service system.
- If you are currently a Firefighter/Paramedic in a Civil Service community and are interested in working for Franklin, send a resume and cover letter to apply@franklinma.gov.
- Please note: new hires must have and maintain a paramedic certification and complete an Associate's Degree within 5 years of the date they are hired.
http://www.franklinma.gov/subscribe
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| Franklin Residents: Job Opportunities with Senior Center, DPW, Facilities, Fire Dept |
MA Republican State Committeewoman, Patricia Saint Aubin, Supports Republican Contender Matt Kelly
Patricia Saint Aubin of Norfolk, the incumbent Massachusetts Republican State Committeewoman, joined dozens of other activists this evening for the formal announcement by Matt Kelly of his intention to reclaim the Norfolk, Bristol, & Middlesex Senate District for the Republican party. Saint Aubin represents the district within the state GOP.
Kelly, a Franklin businessman and long-time member of the Franklin Town Council, promised to make sure everyone in the district is fully represented in the legislature and that the needs of local communities, faced with rising costs and government mandates, are considered when new legislation is proposed.
Saint Aubin, who is looking to extend her term of service to the district on March 3, when party elections coincide with primary day, was enthusiastic about Kelly’s decision to run against first-term Senator, Democrat Rebecca Rausch of Needham. “Matt has shown his long-term commitment to tackling tough local issues and I’m sure he will make a big impact on Beacon Hill,” she said.
“I am a life-long Republican and I regularly attend nearly 100 percent of the Republican Town Committee meetings in my 11-town and one city district,” which includes Attleboro, North Attleboro, Plainville, Wrentham, Norfolk, Franklin, Millis, Sherborn, Natick, Wellesley, Needham and Wayland, says Saint Aubin. She is also a member of the Republican Town Committee in Norfolk. “In addition, I have missed only one State Committee meeting since I was elected in 2012,” she says.
Saint Aubin has worked for the campaigns of numerous Republican presidential, senatorial, and congressional candidates and many, many campaigns for state Representative and Senate within the Bay State. Saint Aubin herself was a candidate for the office of State Auditor in 2014 and was endorsed by the Boston Globe.
The Massachusetts Republican State Committee is the governing body of the Republican Party in Massachusetts. Members of the State Committee play a key role in building the Republican Party in their districts: they recruit candidates, help with fundraising, register new voters, and grow the local Republican City and Town Committees in the district. One state committeeman and one state committeewoman are elected from each state senate district every four years.
This year’s State Committee election will be held in conjunction with the Presidential Primary on March 3, 2020. “I encourage all Republican voters to make their voice heard on March 3; I hope to be Re-Elected in order to continue to help Republican candidates such as Matt Kelly for State Senate,” adds Saint Aubin.
Kelly, a Franklin businessman and long-time member of the Franklin Town Council, promised to make sure everyone in the district is fully represented in the legislature and that the needs of local communities, faced with rising costs and government mandates, are considered when new legislation is proposed.
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| Matt Kelly, center, has announced his candidacy for State Senate. His wife, Lesley is shown to the left and GOP State Committeewoman Patricia Saint Aubin is to the right |
Saint Aubin, who is looking to extend her term of service to the district on March 3, when party elections coincide with primary day, was enthusiastic about Kelly’s decision to run against first-term Senator, Democrat Rebecca Rausch of Needham. “Matt has shown his long-term commitment to tackling tough local issues and I’m sure he will make a big impact on Beacon Hill,” she said.
“I am a life-long Republican and I regularly attend nearly 100 percent of the Republican Town Committee meetings in my 11-town and one city district,” which includes Attleboro, North Attleboro, Plainville, Wrentham, Norfolk, Franklin, Millis, Sherborn, Natick, Wellesley, Needham and Wayland, says Saint Aubin. She is also a member of the Republican Town Committee in Norfolk. “In addition, I have missed only one State Committee meeting since I was elected in 2012,” she says.
Saint Aubin has worked for the campaigns of numerous Republican presidential, senatorial, and congressional candidates and many, many campaigns for state Representative and Senate within the Bay State. Saint Aubin herself was a candidate for the office of State Auditor in 2014 and was endorsed by the Boston Globe.
The Massachusetts Republican State Committee is the governing body of the Republican Party in Massachusetts. Members of the State Committee play a key role in building the Republican Party in their districts: they recruit candidates, help with fundraising, register new voters, and grow the local Republican City and Town Committees in the district. One state committeeman and one state committeewoman are elected from each state senate district every four years.
This year’s State Committee election will be held in conjunction with the Presidential Primary on March 3, 2020. “I encourage all Republican voters to make their voice heard on March 3; I hope to be Re-Elected in order to continue to help Republican candidates such as Matt Kelly for State Senate,” adds Saint Aubin.
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