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Ariel Doggett
Virtual Program Coordinator
Respite Coordinator
"We rise by lifting others" - Robert Ingersoll
There is no act of kindness too small
Memory Cafe - September 21 at 2 PM - Invite Link
□ Vision Statement □
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 BEDH
Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(3) to discuss strategy with respect to collective bargaining with the FEA/RN 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
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| Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - Sep 22, 2020 |
The Town of Franklin is implementing an electricity program for residents and small business owners designed to reduce the community’s carbon footprint, enhance local control, and achieve more affordable pricing.
The Franklin Community Choice Power Supply Program is an electricity aggregation program that allows for the bulk purchase of electricity for a community on behalf of its residential and small business customers. This type of program was authorized in 1997 by Massachusetts General Law. Electricity customers in Franklin are estimated to collectively save more than $2.0 million over the term of the three-year contract.
Renewable Energy Program
The Town of Franklin was designated as a Green Community in 2018. Its new renewable energy program, which utilizes 100% National Wind Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) and aligns with the community’s efforts regarding the use of renewable energy.
By creating this program, Franklin aims to help displace fossil fuel generation and consumption, increase local control in its energy purchasing, and stabilize electricity costs for local residents and small business owners.
Franklin signed a 36-month contract with energy consultant Colonial Power Group and electricity supplier Dynegy Energy Services to design, implement, manage, and supply its electricity program. The Franklin program is slated to begin with the November 2020 meter reads, which will be reflected in ratepayers’ December 2020 invoices.
“In these challenging fiscal times for all families to pay their bills, this is an opportunity to save on electricity costs this winter and residents do not even need to do a thing” said Jamie Hellen, Franklin Town Administrator. “Also, as a certified Green Community, I know many Franklin residents are concerned about our carbon footprint. This new electricity program will allow us to reduce our dependence on non-renewable energy sources and decrease our carbon emissions, while also stabilizing electricity bills during a difficult economic period.”
By implementing a renewable energy program for electricity, Franklin is helping to meet the Massachusetts Global Warming Solutions Act goal of 80 percent emissions reduction by 2050.
Ease of Transition
Most electricity customers never notice that their electricity is being supplied by a new source. There is no change to electric meters; all service and billing questions still go to National Grid; and bills are still paid to and processed by National Grid. The only change is that the name of the electricity supplier on the bill will be Dynegy Energy Services.
Franklin electricity customers currently on National Grid’s basic rate plan will be automatically enrolled in Franklin’s Community Choice Power Supply Program unless they decide to opt-out. Importantly, there are no fees for enrollment or cancellation. Franklin customers can enter and leave the Franklin Community Choice Program at will. However, anyone switching from a contract with a third-party supplier may be subject to penalties or early termination fees charged by that supplier. Ratepayers should verify terms before switching.
There will be no change in electricity service received. Franklin customers will continue to receive one bill from National Grid for both supply and distribution of electricity, and National Grid will process all payments. The selected electricity supplier for Franklin’s energy program, Dynegy Energy Services, will be listed under the “Supply Services” heading on residents’ monthly National Grid bills.
Basic Service rates change twice a year or more, depending on rate class. As a result, the aggregation rate may not always be lower than the Basic Service rate. The goal of the aggregation is to deliver savings over the life of the program against National Grid Basic Service. However, such savings and future savings cannot be guaranteed.
Approximately 150 Massachusetts communities, to date, have chosen to develop community choice electricity programs to benefit their residents and small business owners. Note: Residents and business owners with a supplier block on their account must contact National Grid to request that the block be removed to participate in Franklin’s Community Choice electricity program.
The Town and representatives of Colonial Power Group will hold two Zoom information sessions on Thursday, October 1, 2020 at 7 PM and Monday, October 5, 2020 at 10 AM.
The links can be found on colonialpowergroup.com/franklin and
https://www.franklinma.gov/administrator/pages/municipal-aggregation
If you are unable to attend, recordings will also be posted to these sites and will be rebroadcast on Franklin TV and the Town’s YouTube page.
For more information on the Franklin’s Community Choice Power Supply Program, you may visit colonialpowergroup.com/franklin or call (866) 485-5858 ext. 1
municipal aggregation program
FM #350 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 350 in the series.
This session shares the Franklin, MA Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, Sep 16, 2020. The meeting was conducted via conference bridge to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.
Chair Tom Mercer opened the meeting on schedule. In addition to a set of appointments, approval of prior meeting minutes, a discussion on a possible liquor licenses request for Dacey’s Market, there was one key presentation for the Health Dept.
Cathleen Liberty, Health Director, presents an update on the work the Health department and Board of Health conducts for the town.
The show notes contain links to the meeting agenda and to the presentation document.
This meeting runs just about 1 hour and 45 minutes, so let’s listen to the Town Council meeting of Sep 16, 2020
Audio file: https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/HV9TwkVK
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Town Council agenda
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-council/agenda/september-16-town-council-agenda
Health Dept presentation
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/8a._board_of_health_presentation_1.pdf
My notes from the meeting
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/09/town-council-meeting-recap-sep-16-2020.html
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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/
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"
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| FM #350 Town Council Mtg - 9/16/20 (audio) |
"The Franklin Fire Department is pleased to announce that we have been awarded a @fema #AFG grant in the amount of $138,034. This grant will be used for training." https://t.co/QjEIsLKKvW
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| Franklin Fire Department awarded $138K grant by FEMA |
Happy Friday!
Karen Alves, thank you for your dedication, passion and drive to help make the Franklin Senior Center into a truly wonderful and welcoming place for our Senior community. You will be missed and the legacy of the incredible space you helped shape will continue to flourish and grow. We hope you come back and visit us all as a guest to enjoy the other side of all the wonderful events you helped create! Wishing you happiness and adventures in your retirement!
Tips
Sleep meditation video https://youtu.be/SoON2W5y0V4
Reduce Caregiver stress with positive self talk
https://dailycaring.com/3-ways-to-reduce-caregiver-stress-with-positive-self-talk/
Tiffany Haddish interviews Dr. Fauci - Uncut full interview not clips. Thank you Steve Sherlock for sharing this wonderful video! https://youtu.be/_FZXfgT_IRg
Music
Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean" remix with bottles
Robert Gupta - between Music and Medicine - A TED talk about how music affects us.
Biography Channel - Documentary - The Rat Pack. 2+ hours
Frank Sinatra Spectacular - The Rat Pack Live 1.5 hours of music!
Just for Fun
Eagle Creek Trail https://youtu.be/T5DzGrDp5Xw
Carolyn Scott & Rookie - Dancing with your dog!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HqbVbPvlDoM
Here is a wonderful website with links to dozens of Live cams featuring everything from animals to nature to zen cams. Explore and let me know your favorite live cam!
Amazing street art https://youtu.be/K0N4LVynvvM
Humor
Jeanne Robertson - Don't underestimate a 5 year old.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iTJM6TsPQ1I
Jamie Lissow - You should never marry a crafty woman
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S4eH-bak6sg
Kindness Matters
10 animals who showed gratefulness to the humans who saved them
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8tN4R9_CylI
Saving a dog in Romania. A rags to riches story of happiness and kindness
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pZJpkz_oA8o
Attached you will find:
Rat Pack activity page https://drive.google.com/file/d/1dOaRam-ec1qU9BwLAbohqWuX_o1EMhqe/view?usp=sharing
Mind Benders - You have a chance to win a prize! https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zAEXbiEOUui8eD-3BXSQGSLenm-p2uo6/view?usp=sharing
Junk Drawer Detective - Can you find all the items mentioned in the poem? https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QIZHq8xYBsgumPhHRMvSbr2bMppjyhLs/view?usp=sharing
Happenings in September
Every Tuesday at 5:30pm Join us for Quarantini time. A fun social hour filled with friendly discussions. Bring your favorite beverage, sit back and chat. Email adoggett@franklinma.gov for the zoom link to attend.
Memory Cafe - Sept. 21 at 2pm and Sept. 30th at 11am.
Tues. Sept. 22nd at 10am (note date change)- TALK FRANKLIN MATTERS with our favorite Franklinite, Steve Sherlock. Discuss Franklin and what is going on in our town. Via zoom, email adoggett@franklinma.gov for the link to attend.
Wed., Sept 23rd at 4pm - Caregivers support group - email elaine.owens@verizon.net to attend.
TUES., SEPT 29: 50+ JOB SEEKERS NETWORKING presents: TURN YOUR RESUME INTO A MARKETING TOOL at 10am email susan@sdkelly.com
Wed., Sept 30th at 11am - Memory Cafe - via zoom, email adoggett@franklinma.gov for the link to attend.
WED., SEPT 30: POSITIVE PSYCHOLOGY with NURSE TRISH at 1:00 p.m. Positive emotions are linked with better health, longer life and greater well being. Learn ways to become more positive! This discussion will take place out-doors at the Center. Space is limited, call to sign up.
Curbside Cafe - Open M-F for curbside pick up lunches. (call ahead or order online)
SCHEDULED ACTIVITIES:
MONDAYS:
BOREDOM BAG PICKUP: We can send you games, books, puzzles, dvds, embroidery kits, yarn or fabric!
TELE-BINGO on Mondays and Thursdays at 1:00 p.m., starts Sept. 14, by conference call. We will send you what you need to play Bingo over the phone. Prizes can be picked up or mailed to you. Conference call-in number is: 508-208-8603. Just call to sign up.
TUESDAYS:
CHAIR EXERCISE with Judith at 10:00 a.m. on Zoom. Email: judivperez@gmail.com
CARDIO, STRENGTH & BALANCE CLASS with Judith at 11:00 a.m. on ZOOM. Email: judivperez@gmail.com
LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP (Conference Call) 1st & 3rd Tuesdays at 1:00 p.m. Call the Senior Center for details to attend.
AUDIO BOOK CLUB (Conference Call) at 1:00 p.m. on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays. Email mgunderson@franklinma.gov or call the Senior Center to attend
QUARANTINI HOUR at 5:30 p.m. with Ariel on Zoom. Email: adoggett@franklinma.gov
WEDNESDAYS:
BLOOD PRESSURE & SUGAR TESTING with Nurse Trish by appointment only.
ZUMBA GOLD with Judith at 11:00 a.m. on Zoom. Email: judivperez@gmail.com
MEDICAL EQUIPMENT DISTRIBUTION & DONATIONS at 1:30 p.m. Please call to arrange pickup/drop off.
FIBROMYALGIA SUPPORT GROUP on the 1st Wednesday of the month at 9:30 a.m. Call for more info.
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays at 4:00 p.m. via Zoom. Link to Caregivers guide email Elaine Owens to attend elaine.owens@verizon.net
THURSDAYS:
CHAIR EXERCISE with Judith at 10:00 a.m. on Zoom. Email: judivperez@gmail.com
CARDIO, STRENGTH & BALANCE CLASS at 11:00 a.m. on Zoom. Email: judivperez@gmail.com
CURRENT EVENTS DISCUSSION GROUP at 10:00 a.m on Zoom. Email Matt Rovendro at:
FRIDAYS:
TOPS (TAKING OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY) WEIGHT LOSS SUPPORT GROUP MEETINGS at 12:30
p.m., via Zoom. The group provides support and encouragement. Join us by emailing: pat-amour@yahoo.com
Metrowest Memory Cafe schedule We are excited to be able to bring you a Memory Cafe EVERY MONDAY starting Sept. 14th! What better way to start off your week then with friendship and music!
Monday Sept. 21st at 2pm - "Grateful Moments Cafe" hosted by Right At Home Boston metro West and Seniors Helping Seniors - email adoggett@franklinma.gov for the link to attend. Sing along to your favorite 70s songs! Musician Pam Steinfeld recreates the age of the singer/songwriter. She brings the songs of James Taylor, Carole King, Carly Simon, Eagles, etc. to life - on guitar, piano, and vocals. An award-winning singer/songwriter herself, Pam peppers the show with anecdotes about the artists, songwriters, and often lyrical meaning behind the songs. Come join the party!
Wednesday Sept. 30th at 11am - Memory Cafe hosted by Franklin Senior Center. Featuring the engaging, toe tapping, get up and dance, sing along with us music of Howie Newman. Email adoggett@franklinma.gov for the link to attend ALL memory cafes if you aren't already on the list. (date changed due to Yom Kippur)
Staying Connected
Link to the Senior Center - https://www.franklinma.gov/fsc
Link to the Senior Center Calendar -https://www.franklinma.gov/node/39/events/day/2020-07-07
Link to Franklin Matters - https://www.franklinmatters.org/
Link to the Town's webpage - https://www.franklinma.gov/
Love, virtual hugs and good health to you all! We are still here for you! Please feel free to email Donna and I with questions, concerns or just to check in!
Ariel & Donna
Please feel free to share this email with anyone you think might enjoy it. If you want me to add someone to the email blast list just send me a message with their email in it.
REMEMBER:
When searching for information about the Coronavirus, COVID-19 please use caution! Unfortunately there are many false sites that contain viruses and malware that can threaten your computer. Many look like real sites. Your best bet is to go directly to the CDC, WHO or your local government page (links below).
https://www.franklinma.gov/home/urgent-alerts/coronavirus-information-portal-updates-here
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| Franklin Senior Center: Email Blast - Sep 18, 2020 |
Karen!
Yes! Karen!
by Pete Fasciano, Executive Director 09/20/2020
An outdoor sendoff. This was ‘Group One’ of three gatherings to wish Karen! all the very best as she retires. Why the exclamation mark after – Karen! (?) Simple. She earned it. When you make a mark you deserve a mark. Karen! created a special place in Franklin’s Senior Center and in our hearts. Karen! will be missed.
Period.
And – as always –
Thank you for listening to wfpr●fm.
And, thank you for watching.
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| Bottom photo (L-R) Mel Hamblen, Jeff Roy, Becca Rausch, Karen! Jamie Hellen, Tom Mercer, Matt Kelly (photo - Pete Fasciano) |
From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:
"Because state law governs both the temporary and permanent replacement of town clerks, Hellen appointed Danello to fulfill the role on a temporary basis until the next regularly scheduled municipal election, which is scheduled for Nov. 2, 2021.
There is no statutory provision to allow for a special election to fill the position, Hellen explained in his letter.
“Ms. Danello has my full confidence to lead the Town Clerk’s Office through the upcoming elections,” Hellen wrote. “At this critical juncture, it is essential to have someone lead the upcoming elections who is familiar with the town and has the local experience of our elections system, staff and town geography. In meetings with her this week to debrief and evaluate the most recent state primary, I am confident the appropriate measures will be taken to ensure there will not be a repeat of that event and that every ballot will be processed and counted on time and within the parameters set out by state statute governing elections.”
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| Nancy Danello at the Town Clerk booth in the June 2018 Strawberry Stroll |
