Franklin Senior Center: Email blast Oct 2, 2020

Hello Everyone!

WOW, October is here already. Fall has officially begun, the leaves are turning beautiful colors and there is a crisp chill in the air.  Since we are headed into month 8 of the pandemic we thought we would mix things up a little.  We have a JAMMED PACKED calendar in October with a mix of IN PERSON and virtual offerings.  Make sure to check out the newsletter and check our website for all the wonderful events happening this month!

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 

Link to Franklin Matters - https://www.franklinmatters.org/

Link to the Town's webpage - https://www.franklinma.gov/

October special events -call the Franklin Senior Center, visit our website or check out the October newsletter for more details about these programs! 

• Oct. 6th - drive through flu clinic

• Oct. 6th - Yellow Dot Program with the Norfolk Sheriff's Dept.

• Oct. 7th - LIVE IN PERSON Concerts!!

• Oct 7th - Veterans coffee hour

• Oct. 8th - Movie and discussion "Alive Inside: A Story of Music and Memory"

• Oct. 13th - Time Out Memory Cafe

• Oct. 14th - Senator Rausch coffee hour

• Oct. 15th - Senior coffee hour with local and state officials

• Oct. 19th - Medicare update with SHINE

• Oct. 19th - Grateful Days Memory Cafe

• Oct. 20th - LIVE IN PERSON concerts

• Oct. 21st - Talk Franklin Matters with Steve Sherlock

• Oct. 23rd - Name that tune game show

• Oct. 26th - Norfolk County Sheriff presents "Scams"

• Oct. 26th - Memory Cafe with Wayne Neon

• Oct. 30th - Healthy Never Tasted So Good - cooking demonstration and food pick up

Tips

Low Impact chair exercise with Paul Eugene - this gentleman will get you movin' and groovin'!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wBhneGcs9BA 

99 year old fitness instructor - 5 minute work out all you need is a stick

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6m0KjKeF_hY 

Music

Songs and Music from the War Era.  WWII 2.5 hours of music from the 1930's and 1940's

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4b6DgeTf1BE 

1930, Puttin On The  Ritz, Phil Spitalny Orchestra

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=seB5BYvkMXk 

On Wednesday we enjoyed wonderful music performed by Howie Newman!  Check out his website for more information about Howie and where to hear and buy his music!

http://www.howienewman.com/bio.html 

Just for Fun

Outrageous ads of times gone by.  Good grief can you imagine some of these airing today?!?!  Although the Whiskey toothpaste might be a hit during the pandemic.  haha

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PdsbNf8Elwo 

 

Childhood memories from the 60's and 70's

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gy4kIO8eptI 

 

Abandoned Movie sets you can visit - What set would you visit if you could?

https://youtu.be/Ukyd4NMiV4A

Most surreal National Park - In Japan!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FFSMf3AVzo0 

Walking tour through Olympic National Park - This is relaxing and beautiful!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9frdQgL9WlQ 

Humor

Jeanne Robertson - Don't ask, He'll tell

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b7pKHLo7u8Q 

Laurel and Hardy - Why Didn't You Tell Me you Had 2 Legs?!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wIbeGQp0cm4&frags=pl%2Cwn 

Funny Animal videos

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AguUewSmsNU 

Kindness Matters

Soldiers coming home - just try not to cry

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fv57it8nCV0 

Attached you will find:

• Goodnight Moon Activity Sheet https://drive.google.com/file/d/1y-fm_oO__OhVEFVdotMLz5imYh2K_To_/view?usp=sharing

• Cranium Crunches - Fill in the bridges names with the missing vowels https://drive.google.com/file/d/1wCVRV_fxUBt5vXqs-q2dNLhWSsBar_xw/view?usp=sharing

• Wacky Wordies puzzles https://drive.google.com/file/d/14AUUtKZYOOWp2eolazfqb-pHvuBPjbyh/view?usp=sharing

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. 

OCTOBER HAPPENINGS -contact the senior center, visit our website or the newsletter for more details about our weekly offerings. 

MONDAYS:  

• Tele Bingo - call in game

• Book Discussion Group (Page Turners) 1st Monday of the Month

TUESDAYS: 

• Chair Exercises

• Low Vision Support Group (1st and 3rd Tuesday)

• Audio Book Club (2nd and 4th Tuesday)

• Quarantini Time - Social cocktail group

WEDNESDAYS: 

• Blood Pressure and Sugar screenings

• Zumba gold

• Wellness consults via phone

• Medical equipment distribution and donations

• Fibromyalgia support group (1st wed of the month)

• Caregivers Support Group (2nd and 4th wed)

THURSDAYS: 

• Chair exercise

• Cardio strength and balance class

• Current events discussion group

FRIDAYS: 

• TOPS (Taking off pounds sensibly)

• SUNSHINE group (supportive Day)

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.cdc.gov/ 

https://www.who.int/

https://www.franklinma.gov/home/urgent-alerts/coronavirus-information-portal-updates-here

MEMORY CAFE!

For those of you who attend our Memory Cafe events I invite you to learn more about attending a VIRTUAL Memory Cafe through Zoom!  There are many options to choose from.

https://www.memorycafedirectory.com/cafe-connect/

--

Ariel Doggett

Virtual Program Coordinator

Respite Coordinator

"We rise by lifting others" - Robert Ingersoll

There is no act of kindness too small

Franklin Senior Center: Email blast Oct 2, 2020

Visit the Pumpkin Patch at St John's Episcopal Church during October

The Pumpkins are here!

Visit the Pumpkin Patch at St John's Episcopal Church, 237 Pleasant Street
Mon-Fri 5-8 PM and Sat/Sun 12-8 PM through October 31.

Various sizes and prices of carving pumpkins, baking pumpkins, as well as specialty pumpkins and gourds.

Activities for children:

• Witch's Hat Ring Toss - Sunday, October 4 from 4-8 PM  
  
• Paper Pumpkin Craft - Sunday, October 18
• Costume Contest - Saturday October 31 at 3 PM
  

 

 

Visit the Pumpkin Patch at St John's Episcopal Church during October

In the News: "Mail-in ballots are not ripe for fraud"

From the Milford Daily News, an article of interest for Franklin:

"As President Donald Trump continues to claim the ballots are ripe for fraud, some local experts say that’s not the case in Massachusetts

Is anything in life free from potential fraud?

“No” was Steven Kerrigan’s answer.

Kerrigan is Marlborough’s city clerk, a job he’s held since May, after serving seven years as assistant clerk.

When it comes to mail-in ballots in Massachusetts, Kerrigan said, “I feel relatively certain the system is secure.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required) 

https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20201004/mail-in-ballots-local-experts-said-chance-for-fraud-is-almost-non-existent?rssfeed=true

 

Franklin MA: info can be found on the Town Clerk page

https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk

 

 

Franklin, MA: 2020 Election Schedule

 

In the News: "Franklin firefighters get double duty on Winter Street"

From the Milford Daily News, an article of interest for Franklin:

"Firefighters battled a blaze at a multifamily home at 44 Winter St. Friday night, only to be forced o return when it rekindled on Saturday morning.

At 7:32 p.m. Friday, firefighters reported they were responding to a working fire on Winter Street, according to a Twitter post. A photo posted by the department later that night showed smoke and flames billowing from the top floor and roof of the 2,337-square-foot home.

The fire rekindled on Saturday morning before firefighters were again able to put it out. "

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required) https://www.milforddailynews.com/sports/20201003/franklin-firefighters-get-double-duty-on-winter-street?rssfeed=true

 

"We have a working fire on Winter Street" via https://twitter.com/FranklinMAfire

SAFE Coalition reminds the community it is here to provide support

Dear Community,

Charles Dickens opened a Tale of Two Cities with these memorable lines: 

“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of light, it was the season of darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair.” 

In the past few months, I have felt these words in my soul. 

Some of us have rejoiced in this new time spent with family, the opportunity to get ahead of those fall clean outs, and the ability to practice a work from home life. Others have experienced financial and academic changes, mental and medical heath concerns, and most deeply a lost sense of hope and recovery.

It is during these times that we must reckon with our own lines of need. 

The SAFE Coalition has seen an incredible increase in calls – which we welcome and it’s why we are here.

The calls have been from individuals asking for support, parents seeking information for their children’s health, school systems looking for structure in treatment, and local prescribers and first responders interested in collaborating. On top of that, we have received inquiries on ways to support the larger community. 

We often speak about Vaping, Heroin, Alcohol, mental health, expectations vs. reality and domestic violence. In listening, we take the time to recognize how stigma, past care, and the reality of the world are impacting each caller. We, work together, to create a recovery oriented support plan for the family as a whole.

We recognize that you and those you love are worthy of support. We know that the quiet voice whispering in the dark of night, the reminders of vulnerability, the questions of, “am I doing enough?”, does not need to hold a place within you forever. And we believe the fears you have about your child’s substance use is not a failure of your parenting, but an opportunity to gain more insight into their needs. 

Healing only happens when it is shared within a supportive community.

With a warm (socially distant) embrace, the SAFE Coalition offers pathways for support, education, treatment options and healing opportunities. We are here and we are ready.
 

Warmly,
Jennifer Knight-Levine
Executive Director, co-founder
SAFE Coalition   https://www.safecoalitionma.org/

 

SAFE Coalition reminds the community it is here to provide support

Franklin 5K Turkey Trot Adapts to Covid-19 Regulations

Franklin 5K Turkey Trot Adapts to Covid-19 Regulations
9th Annual Family Fun Run Benefits Franklin Food Pantry

 
The Franklin Food Pantry is pleased to announce that the annual Franklin Turkey Trot will still happen in 2020! The fun 5K will occur with a few changes to keep all of our runners safe and provide help to the Franklin Food Pantry neighbors.

While the turkey trot will still officially run on Thanksgiving morning, November 26th, each runner can run or walk their own personal 5K when it is most convenient for them and can map out their favorite course anywhere throughout town. Once runners have finished the race, they can post a picture on social media sharing that they completed their run and their time while tagging the Franklin Food Pantry and using the hashtag #turkeytrot2020.

The registration fee of $25 goes directly to the Franklin Food Pantry, keeping donations local to help feed those in need, and participants can register online at franklinturkeytrot.org. This year, the Franklin Food Pantry will not be able to accept food donations instead of the fee. Thank you for understanding this change in policy. The first 100 registers will receive a commemorative t-shirt. Runners can also purchase a t-shirt directly from the registration page.

"This year, more than ever, we have seen the importance of the Food Pantry to our Franklin Community. Between June 2019 and July 2020, we have seen an increase of 21% of households that visit us. Our neighbors are feeling the effects of Covid-19 and are turning to the Pantry for food and support during these trying times, said Lynn Calling, executive director for the Franklin Food Pantry. "Thanksgiving will look different for many this year, but one thing that will not change is the tradition of the The Franklin Turkey Trot to rally our community to give back and help protect others from the threat of hunger. The over 1,400 individuals we serve are grateful to our community for coming out to support us."

There are also several opportunities for local businesses to sponsor the race. Funds received from sponsorships are used to purchase t-shirts for the first 100 registered race participants, and other costs associated with the event. Any additional money from sponsorships will go directly to support the Franklin Food Pantry. Interested sponsors should contact Kim Cooper at kcooper@franklinfoodpantry.org or Krystal Whitmore at franklinturkeytrot@gmail.com.

"I'd also like to take the time to thank Race Director Krystal Whitmore who volunteers every year to coordinate this wonderful event. We weren't sure if we'd be able to have this event this year, but we are so fortunate We are fortunate to have an incredibly hard-working group of volunteers, led by Krystal, to still make this event happen," said Calling. "Krystal organizes church members, high school students, and her own family members to volunteer. The amount of work involved is amazing. We could not do this without them."

About the Franklin Food Pantry

The Franklin Food Pantry offers supplemental food assistance and household necessities to over 1,400 individuals. As a nonprofit organization, the Pantry depends entirely on donations, and receives no town or state funding. Between June 2019 and July 2020, 287,691, pounds of food was provided to clients. Other programs include the Weekend Backpack Program, Carts for Clients, Mobile Pantry, and holiday meal packages. Visit www.franklingfoodpantry.org for more information.

Note: Franklin Matters is proud to be a sponsor of this event

2019 Turkey Trot Runners

FM #358 EDC Listening Session Number 1 - 9/30/20 (audio)

FM #358 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 358 in the series.

This shares the Franklin, MA Economic Development SubCommittee "Listening session" that was held on Wednesday, September 30, 2020. The session was conducted via conference bridge to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

A quick recap:

• The first of several “listening sessions” was held on Weds, Sep 30.
• While the meeting was delayed in opening officially, there was a healthy interactive discussion among the non-Council Chamber folks while waiting. The conversation unfortunately did not continue when the meeting opened.
• It is a known problem with “listening sessions” where those doing the listening tend to respond to ideas rather than absorbing and asking no more than clarification questions like: please elaborate, what could work, what could be done… and that happened here too.

The meeting runs just about 88 minutes, so let’s listen to the EDC ‘listening session’ of Sep 30, 2020.  Audio file =  https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/HDx4fRhK

 

 

-----------

The agenda doc, including connection info
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/agendas/2020-09-30_edc_listening_session_1_agenda.pdf
 
Listening Session schedule
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/business_listening_flyer_-_final_2_1_1.pdf
 
My notes taken via Twitter during the meeting are summarized here
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/10/economic-development-subcommittee.html
 
Photos used in the Twitter thread can be found in the Google photo album
https://photos.app.goo.gl/DKJbMzaqHNqfLs5KA

--------------
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!
------------------

You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters" 

EDC Chair Melanie Hamblen

 

Municipal Aggregation Program Informational Session - Oct 5

Municipal Aggregation Program Informational Session

• Event Date: Monday, October 5, 2020 - 10:00am

Zoom Information

• Meeting Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84712272251
• Meeting ID: 847 1227 2251  Call-In Phone Number: 1-929-205-6099 

 

Program Announcement

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/2020-09-18_municipal_aggregation_announcement.pdf

 

 

Municipal Aggregation Program Informational Session - Oct 5

FHS Golf wins second match in row vs. Attleboro

Via HockomockSports.com and Twitter we have the results of the fall sports activity for Franklin High School. 

Friday's Results

Golf = Attleboro, 195 @ Franklin, 157 – Final

Panthers roll to 2-0 with shooting a 157 over AHS today. Capt Paterson led the way with a 37 while red hot Norty followed with a 38. Hagerty added a 40 and Connelly closed with a 42. Back at it Monday. @FHSSports  @FHSPantherbook

Thursday's Results

Golf = Franklin, 149 @ Attleboro, 168 – Final 

– Franklin senior Nolan Norton fired a one-over par round of 36 to lead the Panthers to a win in their first match of the season. Senior Brian Sandham added a two-over round of 37 at Stone-E-Lea Golf Course in Attleboro while sophomore Jack Hagerty and senior Jack Paterson each shot 38 for the Panthers. Attleboro junior Brendan Raymond had a team-low round of 37 while Carter Shelton added a 41 for the Bombardiers.

 

FHS Golf Tweet on Friday https://twitter.com/FHSGolfTeam/status/1312167241929039872

HockomockSports.com links

https://hockomocksports.com/fridays-schedule-scoreboard-10-02-20/

https://hockomocksports.com/thursdays-schedule-scoreboard-10-01-20/

 

FHS Golf wins second match in row vs. Attleboro

Franklin Public Library October 2020 News & Events

Franklin Public Library October 2020 News & Events

Library News

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, The Franklin Public Library is currently closed to the public. Curbside Pickup is available Monday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the vestibule of the entrance at the top of the parking lot ramp. Library Staff are available by phone (508-520-4941) and email (frkill@minlib.net) Monday through Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sunday hours are not available at this time.

In observance of Columbus Day, Curbside Pickup will not be available Monday, October 12th.

No donations are being accepted at this time. Please do not place them in the return bins or outside the building.

 

Programs for Children and Teens

Weekly Virtual Events for Kids!

Wake Up Wiggles! Mondays 10:30AM on Facebook Live!

Zoom Tummy Time for Babies! Tuesdays @9:30AM

          email Miss Caleigh at ckeating@minlib.net to register for Tummy Time!

Zoom Toe Tapping Tuesdays! (Super Silly Dance Class for Ages 2+!) Tuesdays @4:00PM

          email Miss Bree at bcomeau@minlib.net to register for Cool Cruisers!

Bookworm Bounce! Thursdays @4:00PM on Facebook Live!

Zoom Book Club for Kids Grades 3-5 (Alternating Saturday afternoons at 3:30PM)

Kids in Grades 3-5! Join us for awesome book discussions and fun activities! We are currently reading the 39 Clues Book 3 (The Sword Thief by Peter Lerangis) and having a blast trying to solve all the mysteries and make predictions with this thrilling series!  Email ckeating@minlib.net to get involved!

Reader's Choice Zoom Book Club for Teens! 

Join a group of avid readers as we choose a YA book or series to read together and then discuss over zoom! This casual book club meets on zoom at the convenience of the members, and we decide what to read together, and LOVE getting recommendations! Email ckeating@minlib.net to get involved!

Teen Advisory Board, 2nd Wednesday of the Month on Zoom @7:30PM!

Teens! Want to get involved at the library from a distance? Join us as we plan teen-centric events, book displays, revamp our website and more! The perfect way to earn community service hours remotely! Email ckeating@minlib.net to get involved!

Special Programs for Families

Halloween Family Friendly Cooking Class:  Witch Fingers! Saturday, October 31st @1:00PM!

Join Miss Sandhya of Sandhya's Kitchen for a special zoom cooking class for kids and their grown-ups! We will be making witch finger treats in honor of Halloween!

To register and receive the recipe and zoom link, please email ckeating@minlib.net!

Programs for Adults

​Jumpin' Juba Car Concert, Friday, October 9, 3:00 p.m.

Jumpin' Juba mixes blues from Chicago, Memphis and New Orleans with roots-y rock & roll, jazz, calypso, & Latin flavors. Steve Hurl's guitar playing draws from great blues, & early rock & roll. Bruce Ward's piano work recalls such greats as Prof. Longhair & Albert Ammons. For more information please visit www.stevehurl.com  or   www.reverbnation.com/jumpinjuba .

Please remain in your vehicle or its immediate vicinity while enjoying the concert. Social distancing rules apply. Stay at home if you or a member of your household is sick. Masks covering your nose and mouth must be worn if you are exiting your vehicle. Please maintain a distance of six feet from other participants.

This program is supported by a grant from the Franklin Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.

 

West African Kora presented by Sean Gaskell
Sunday, October 11, 3:00 p.m.

Sean Gaskell features traditional songs on the Kora, a 21 string harp that he learned how to play throughout the course of multiple visits to its homeland in Gambia, West Africa. The music is traditionally played by oral and musical historians known as Griots (Gree-ohs). The Kora is a very melodic and seemingly peaceful instrument, which is contrary to its musical repertoire. Many songs tell ancient stories of war and hardship, while others praise people of high political status and those who helped expand the Mande empire.

While the Kora is only 300 years old, some commonly played songs can be traced back 800 years to the founding of the Mande empire. Gaskell has studied extensively under the instruction of Malamini Jobarteh and Moriba Kuyateh, both of Brikama, Gambia. He was first inspired to play by Kane Mathis, a Kora player formerly based in Seattle who has lead "The Kora Band" and "The Sahel Band". Gaskell relocated from Seattle to Asheville, North Carolina in 2014. He has been featured at a number of music festivals in the US, Gambia, and Senegal.

This performance will take place on our FaceBook  and YouTube pages.

 

Antonio Meucci: Inventor of the Telephone?
Wednesday, October 21, 7:00 p.m.

Most of us grew up learning that Alexander Graham Bell invented the telephone – in Boston, no less. But there were many others who claimed to have gotten there first or simultaneously, and some of those "other" inventors still have their supporters. One of the "other" inventors with a particularly credible claim was Antonio Meucci, an immigrant from Florence, Italy, who shared a laboratory with Bell for a time but had actually shown a prototype of his own telephone more than a dozen years before Bell claimed his breakthrough. In this Zoom presentation, in honor of Italian History Month, local historian and Sons of Italy member, Alan Earls offers the fascinating story of Meucci (with slides).

This program will take place on Zoom. To register, please visit https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwvdumorzgsE9FW3nSkNrvYNNhgSIryqyn1 .

 

Kitchen Table Art Workshop: Beeswax Ink Transfers

Sunday, October 25th, 3:00 p.m.

Transformation is pretty cool! Working in miniature we will explore an ink-onto-wax encaustic-like transfer method that has a magical quality. We will apply, burnish, and mark pigment from recycled magazine pages onto beeswax coated wood. The workshop is for adult and young adult artists, non-artists, and emerging creatives from all fields. No prior art experience is necessary.

Registration is open until October 15th. Priority will be given to Franklin residents. Pre-assembled kits containing materials and tools to be used in the workshop will be available for the first 15 registrants to pick-up curbside at the library. Additional participants may make up their own kit with a provided supply list. After registration closes, you will receive an email with either instructions about picking up your kit OR a supply list to put together your own kit. All registrants will receive the link to connect to the (Zoom) workshop.

To register go to www.thecreativitycurator.com. Email questions to Jacqueline Volpe at thecreativitycurator@gmail.com. Please register early if you would like to receive one of the pre-made kits since quantities are limited.

Kitchen Table Art Workshops (KTAW) are online open studios intended to foster creativity and encourage experimentation in the safety of our homes while being socially and artistically connected online. We will take turns sharing our creations as we work. Participants are asked to help create an atmosphere where we all feel open to exchange conversation and inspire each other's individual freedom of expression. So - let's say yes to our creativity by coming together online to make art!

 

Franklin Public Library Book Club, Tuesday, October 27, 7:00 p.m.

The book for discussion is The Starless Sea, by Erin Morgenstern.

Zachary Ezra Rawlins is a graduate student in Vermont when he discovers a rare book hidden in the stacks. As he turns the pages, entranced by tales of lovelorn prisoners, key collectors, and nameless acolytes, he reads something strange: a story from his own childhood. Bewildered by this inexplicable book and desperate to make sense of how his own life came to be recorded, Zachary uncovers a series of clues--a bee, a key, and a sword--that lead him to a masquerade party in New York, to a secret club, and through a doorway to a subterranean library, hidden far below the surface of the earth. What Zachary finds in this curious place is more than just a buried home for books and their guardians--it is a place of lost cities and seas of honey, lovers who pass notes under doors and across time, and of stories whispered by the dead. Zachary learns of those who have sacrificed much to protect this realm, relinquishing their sight and their tongues to preserve this archive, and also those who are intent on its destruction. Together with Mirabel, a fierce, pink-haired protector of the place, and Dorian, a beautiful barefoot man with shifting alliances, Zachary travels the twisting tunnels, darkened stairwells, crowded ballrooms, and sweetly-soaked shores of this magical world, discovering his purpose--in both the rare book and in his own life.

To reserve a copy of the book or for more information, please contact Assistant Library Director Kim Shipala at kshipala@minlib.net . To register, please visit  https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEscuqupjgoGd0XAfQuUAIIChGwkzLwWWsx  .

 

Online Resources

Even though we are closed to the public, the Library still has so much to offer! Here are updates and information regarding the Library's services during this closure:

Our digital library is still open! Explore our collection of audiobooks, ebooks, and more at https://minuteman.overdrive.com/ . On your phone or tablet, download the Libby and Minuteman Library Network apps!

Try out Kanopy, hoopla, Creativebug, and Consumer Reports on the Featured Databases page (exclusively available to Franklin residents).

Learn something new, find articles for school assignments, read newspapers like the New York Times, or pick up a new skill using the links on our Databases & Research Resources page.

Don't have a Library card? Apply for one online here https://library.minlib.net/selfreg ! This will give you access to all of our online resources and apps.

Tune in to our Facebook page for streaming storytimes, book discussions, and other live programs. https://www.facebook.com/FranklinPublicLibrary/

For email Reference service, or help with your library account, send questions to frkill@minlib.net . Inquiries will be answered within 24 hours.

Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube!

Shared from the Town of Franklin Library page https://www.franklinma.gov/franklin-public-library/news/franklin-public-library-october-2020-news-events

Franklin Public Library October 2020 News & Events

Watch "Think Franklin First ‐ A Keep It Local Campaign" on YouTube

Video link = https://youtu.be/G9tsuCx7uiM 

Economic Development Subcommittee: Listening Session 1 - Recap of Sep 30, 2020 Session

Recap:

• The first of several “listening sessions” was held on Weds, Sep 30.
• While the meeting was delayed in opening officially, there was a healthy interactive discussion among the non-Council Chamber folks while waiting. The conversation unfortunately did not continue when the meeting opened.
• It is a known problem with “listening sessions” where those doing the listening tend to respond to ideas rather than absorbing and asking no more than clarification questions like: please elaborate, what could work, what could be done… and that happened here too.

----
As with most meetings in this pandemic period, I took my notes via Twitter during the meeting reporting in real-time via the virtual session.
 
The Twitter hashtag can be found online  #edcls0930
https://twitter.com/hashtag/edcls0930?src=hashtag_click

Photos (screen captures) shared via Twitter can be found in one folder

https://photos.app.goo.gl/DKJbMzaqHNqfLs5KA 

 

• Ready for EDC listening session #1 #edcls0930
• Meeting opened but they are running late due to tech difficulty #edcls0930 So we'll wait.
• While we have time to share the economic development page for Franklin https://franklinma.gov/economic-development  #edcls0930
• And the Market Study which is one of the key inputs for the listening session soon to start https://franklinma.gov/economic-development/links/mapc-town-franklin-market-study #edcls0930
• And the MetroWest study is also for consideration https://franklinma.gov/economic-development/files/495metrowest-profile #edcls0930
• Tonight is primarily for downtown Franklin, Franklin Cultural District along with the Crossing section segments of the Franklin market place #edcls0930
• Tech resolution reached, meeting formally opening #edcls0930  (20 mins late)
• Approx 21 via Zoom, some Committee and town folks in the Council chambers #edcls0930 Live stream and Verizon/Comcast cable subscribers also have access to their local channels
• Tony Dasilva of the rail trail Committee notes an increase in traffic on the SNETT #edcls0930 Jamie adds about parking lot at Beaver and Grove, access to State forest, another lot coming to Spring St for access to the SNETT desire to be complete streets enabled
• Long term plan includes work on Kenwood Circle and eventually all along Grove #edcls0930 to bring trail all the way down to the Crossing is desired. CSX owns and uses the stretch so it will take time, time, time
• Friendly reminder if anyone needs the info to join #edcls0930
• Senator Rausch in the audience #edcls0930 Lisa Piana of Downtown Partnership has some info and will be surveying their businesses.
• #ThinkFranklinFirst campaign launches Oct 1 in town social media and newsletter #edcls0930 looking for help in sharing info. Work also underway on cultural district page to reflect current events, etc.
• Recognizing that Amazon is a competitor, is there a way to develop a local delivery service to combine resources among the businesses. Would it be worth it to avoid hitting the Amazon button. #edcls0930 a grubhub for local items (not just food)
• Suggestion on adding more lights downtown around the trees, will the sled be back? #edcls0930 Q on occupancy capacity for the next step per Gov Baker announcement yesterday. Outdoor back to 100, performance venue at half capacity doesn't cover Gillette yet
• Looking to open Library, Senior Center, and Municipal building for Nov 9... #edcls0930
• Drive through expanded hours coming to enable ballot drop off at Municipal building, stay tuned for more info coming. Visit town clerk page for updates. (will also share via https://Franklinmatters.org of course) #edcls0930
• Q on how many businesses are actually represented here? Trail folks, cultural folks, citizens, and there was out reach to business owners, etc. Personal invite to all 820 businesses by ToF office. #edcls0930
• Raul of MAPC encourages use of students at Dean as a resource for helping in marketing or creation of collateral #edcls0930
• How do we create a jingle on the #thinkFranklinFirst theme? #edcls0930 next one Oct 19, restaurants, hospitality, tourism target for that discussion but open to all
• That's all for tonight, catch you all next time. #edcls0930 

EDC Chair Melanie Hamblen

 

COVID Positive Letter to ASMS Families

October 2, 2020

Dear Franklin Families,

I am writing to inform you that a person in our Annie Sullivan Middle School community has tested positive for COVID-19. This person has not been in the school building.

Our first responsibility is to keep our students and staff safe. We have been planning for this scenario during our reopening planning process and have a comprehensive plan in place to sanitize the school, inform individuals who were at risk of exposure or in close contact, and support everyone navigating this stressful experience.

Students and staff in the building have been closely adhering to the safety protocols including mask-wearing, hand washing, and physical distancing. We are grateful to our faculty/staff and families/students for continued efforts to monitor symptoms and stay home when not feeling well. These measures, taken in combination, greatly reduce the risk of transmission.

Though we cannot provide specific information about our school community member who tested positive, your child was not a close contact (defined as being within 6 feet of the person for at least 15 minutes) of the affected school member. As always, please continue to monitor your child for symptoms, and keep your child home if they show any symptoms or are not feeling well.

Parents/guardians of students who were in close contact with the community member will be notified privately. All close contacts should be tested but must self-quarantine for 14 days after the last exposure to the person who tested positive, regardless of the test result. We are also following all Department of Health protocols, including collaborating with our local board of health to complete contact tracing. Additionally, we are asking those parents/guardians whose students are tested for COVID-19 to please report the results to the school nurse. Staff members are to report positive test results to their supervisor. We are working hard to understand the impact of the virus on our school community and this information is a critical piece of that puzzle.

To prevent transmission of the virus to staff and students, we sanitize the school with a focus on areas that are frequently touched/accessed. We will continue to be vigilant in adhering to all of the protocols that have been put in place.
 
As noted in a previous communication regarding COVID-19, please visit the following link for more information on COVID-19 symptoms and testing:
 https://www.mass.gov/info-details/about-covid-19-testing#where-can-get-a-test?-.

You can also find a map of testing sites at
https://memamaps.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=eba3f0395451430b9f631cb095febf13. Please contact us immediately should you or someone in your home begin to show symptoms.

We are committed to continuous communication with and support of our families. If you have any additional questions or concerns, please e-mail reopening@franklinps.net.

Thank you for your continued support.


Sincerely,
Franklin Public Schools 

The COVID Communications protocol was announced previously

https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/responding_to_covid_communication_expectations_sept_2020-english.pdf

 

COVID Positive Letter to ASMS Families

 

"Breweries in Pandemic Times" - #thinkFranklinfirst

From the Boston Globe, an article of interest for Franklin:

"Chilly weather didn’t stop a devoted group of thirsty customers from huddling on the concrete patio outside the small Idle Hands brewery one evening last week. Tractor-trailers rumbled past on a busy four-lane road. The clickety-clack of the Orange Line could be heard nearby.

Despite the gritty backdrop, all six outdoor tables were occupied and replenished with India pale ale, pilsner, lagers, and other craft beer. A few steps away, drive-up customers walked just inside the empty taproom to pick up their favorite ale and cart it home.

Chris Tkach, the owner, said he has managed to weather the near-constant reinvention forced on his small business by the pandemic. Revenues are down only 10 to 15 percent so far this year, he said. But as temperatures fall, Idle Hands and the state’s 200 other breweries worry whether all the changes they have made to stay afloat since March will be enough.

“The next six months could be excruciatingly challenging,” said Jack Hendler, co-owner of Jack’s Abby in Framingham. “A lot of breweries have been able to get through the past three months, but it has yet to be seen what will happen over the next few.”

 

Continue reading the article online (subscription maybe required)

https://www.bostonglobe.com/2020/10/01/lifestyle/hard-hit-breweries-shiver-thought-winter/

This is an opportunity to #thinkFranklinfirst and consider 67 Degrees Brewing Co when looking for craft beer

https://67degreesbrewing.com/

Franklin weekend -> Oct 2 - 3 - 4, 2020

Farmers Market

Friday, Oct 2  - noon to 6:00 PM

Franklin Town Common 

Boy Scout Troop 126 bottle can drive

Sat, Oct 3 at the Franklin Elks (repeats on Sat, Oct 10)

or schedule a pick up by 5 PM on Friday

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/09/bottlecan-drive-to-benefit-scouts-bsa.html

THE BLACK BOX presents T.3

Two virtual performances on Sat, Oct 3  6:30 PM or 8:15 PM

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/10/the-black-box-presents-t3-virtual.html

Franklin weekend ->  Oct 2 - 3 - 4, 2020

THE BLACK BOX presents T.3 - virtual performance - 2 shows on Oct 3

T.3 is a New York based vocal group composed of Liam Fennecken (School of Rock), Jim Hogan (Waitress) and Brendan Jacob Smith (The Simon & Garfunkel Story).  They gained popularity on social media platforms with covers of Disney, Broadway and Pop hits. They’re excited to share their music with you tonight! Feel free to follow them on social media: @t.3official #T3Thursday #tiktoktenors

Buy Tickets to watch in person at THE BLACK BOX: Two shows on Saturday, Oct 3: 6:30 PM or 8:15 PM  https://www.theblackboxonline.com/events.php?id=1411&month=10&year=2020

Want to watch from home?  Click here to purchase a virtual ticket and watch the Live Stream!
https://www.theblackboxonline.com/events.php?id=1411&month=10&year=2020

Jim Hogan is a New York City based actor, singer, musician and member of viral-sensation vocal group, T.3!  His Broadway National Touring credits include Waitress, The Phantom of the Opera and Spring Awakening.  Jim has performed as a soloist with Symphony Orchestras across the US and Canada. Training: Penn State University. Follow Jim on all social media outlets: @jimhogan220!

Liam Fennecken is a proud graduate of the Penn State BA Theatre program.  He is an actor, musician, and songwriter living in NYC.  He recently toured the US and South Korea in School of Rock, and has toured North America with Once, American Idiot, and Peter Pan 360.  Follow along on social media @liamfennecken!

Brendan Jacob Smith is an Actor, Singer and Songwriter based in Brooklyn, Ny. A recent graduate of Ithaca College, Brendan will be playing Art Garfunkel in the US/ Canada Company of The Simon and Garfunkel starting this spring. He recently finished up his time as a member of Hyannis Sound, Cape Cod’s professional A capella group, and was seen as Frankie Epps in Parade at The Rev Theatre Company. Follow on Social media @Brendanjacobsmith! 

THE BLACK BOX presents T.3 - virtual performance - 2 shows on Oct 3