Saturday, January 6, 2024

First communities in Mass. to ban gas appliances get final state OK

"After years of deliberations, negotiations and regulatory rollout — and some well-publicized “agita” in the corner office — a handful of Massachusetts cities and towns can now significantly limit the use of fossil fuels in new building projects.

The state’s Department of Energy Resources gave seven communities the final green light to begin a groundbreaking experiment: they will require new construction and major renovation to embrace fossil fuel-free infrastructure for uses like heating and cooling.

They include Acton, Aquinnah, Brookline, Cambridge, Concord, Lincoln and Lexington, which can now effectively mandate that most construction or significant renovation projects within their borders abstain from oil and gas hookups.

Effective dates vary by community. In several cases, the rules will take effect within three months, though Lincoln’s will not kick in for roughly six months and Aquinnah’s appears to have already started on Jan. 1."
Continue reading the article at the Boston Globe (subscription may be required)
https://www.bostonglobe.com/2024/01/05/business/massachusetts-gas-bans/

New construction in Cambridge and at least six other cities and towns in Massachusetts will be largely free from fossil fuels under a new pilot program approved by state energy regulators last month.LANE TURNER/GLOBE STAFF
New construction in Cambridge and at least six other cities and towns in Massachusetts will be largely free from fossil fuels under a new pilot program approved by state energy regulators last month.LANE TURNER/GLOBE STAFF

A friendly Winter Parking Ban reminder from Franklin Police Dept

Via Franklin Police Dept:

Dear Franklin,
It’s going to snow this weekend. That being said please reference the very official document below regarding on street parking. Winter parking ban by-law 170-60 will be in effect. 
The purpose of the winter storm overnight parking ban shall be to provide for the safe movement of police, fire and emergency medical service vehicles during snow and ice storms and otherwise provide for public safety during winter weather conditions. The parking ban shall also serve to enhance the capability of the Public Works Department to remove snow and ice from the roadways effectively and efficiently.
§ 170-61  Activation of parking ban.
A winter storm overnight parking ban shall automatically take effect upon occurrence of any of the following:
A. Snow, sleet, or freezing rain has fallen, or is imminent.
B. The National Weather Service and/or local television and/or radio stations or other media are reporting commencement of snow, sleet, or freezing rain within the local area or are predicting that snow, sleet, or freezing rain will begin in Franklin within 12 hours. 
Effect of parking ban.
The parking of any motor vehicle within the layout of the right-of-way of any public street or any roadway open to the public or on any municipally owned property is prohibited between the hours of 1:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. while a winter storm parking ban is in effect. 
Violations and penalties.
A. Winter storm overnight parking ban violators shall be charged a fine of $25 for each offense.
B. In addition to the foregoing penalty or in lieu thereof, the Town may have the violator's vehicle towed and stored at the violator's expense.
C. For purposes of this section, the vehicle's registered owner and any permitted user shall be deemed a violator. 
Effective time period.
This article shall be in effect from October 15 to April 15. 
Enforcement.  
The Franklin Police Department shall enforce the provisions of this article and shall be solely responsible for issuance of tickets and authorization of towing.
A friendly Winter Parking Ban reminder from Franklin Police Dept
A friendly Winter Parking Ban reminder from Franklin Police Dept

Friday, January 5, 2024

Franklin's Event Outlook: January 5, 2023 to January 11, 2024


Friday, January 5
Trash-Recycle Pickup Delayed 1 day (Thursday picked up today)
7:30pm BRIGHT STAR (ticketed event) (THE BLACK BOX)  

Saturday, January 6
Trash-Recycle Pickup Delayed 1 day (Friday picked up today)
8:30am Girl Scout Cookie Sale (US Post Office, Main St)
10:00am Girl Scout Cookie Sale (Stop & Shop, Franklin Village Mall)
10:00am Franklin Historical Museum (always free)
10:00am Train Town Franklin; Part 2 (Franklin Historical Museum)
10:00am Winter Farmers Market (Fairmount Fruit Farm)
10:00am LGBTQ Brunch with Friends (Maks Roast Beef & Breakfast)
10:00am Standout for Democracy (Franklin Village Mall)
7:00pm 2nd Chance Band (live music) (Raillery Public House)
7:30pm BRIGHT STAR (ticketed event) (THE BLACK BOX)

Sunday, January 7
1:00pm Franklin Historical Museum (always free)
1:00pm Train Town Franklin; Part 2  (Franklin Historical Museum)
2:00pm Bright Star (ticketed event) (THE BLACK BOX)

Tuesday, January 9
7:00pm FBRTC Meeting (67 Degrees Brewery)

Wednesday, January 10
1:00pm Senior Scribblers (writing group) (Franklin Senior Center)

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The Franklin Art Association Art Gallery remains open during business hours at Escape into Fiction (Main St, Franklin)

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

The Cultural calendar displays only the cultural events      https://www.franklinculture.org/things-do/pages/calendar

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

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


Franklin's Event Outlook: January 5, 2023 to January 11, 2024
Franklin's Event Outlook: January 5, 2023 to January 11, 2024

First 2024 meeting of the Comprehensive Facilities Planning Subcommittee gets understanding timeline for end of year report can be met (audio)

FM #1126 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1126 in the series. 

This session of the radio show shares the FPS Comprehensive Facilities Planning Subcommittee meeting held on Jan 3, 2024. The meeting was held in the 3rd floor training room. 


Participating in the room: D Callaghan, A Charles, Supt. Giguere, Dr. Dutch, Dr. Rogers, Mike D’Angelo. Participating remotely: E Gallagher


Quick recap:

  • District did issue an RFP with pricing separately, once qualifications were confirmed, Fran Locker & Assoc selected for visioning and planning aspects to work with Kaestle Boos report as baseline

  • D’Angelo provides info on building work around the Town, all the schools built; Across the three complexes, Remington Jefferson roof needs to be placed; fire alarm system, heating/cooling systems all need to be replaced (except interior air handlers); Similar story for the other two complexes, eventually

  • Built out a ten year projection for the facilities across the district with details on the items for replacement, etc. McKibben demographics updated with 2020 census info, presentation coming to School Committee. Educational visioning exercise (Locker & Assoc), tour of buildings scheduled to view educational spaces and utilizations. Kaestle Boos (KBA) report then gets updated with the additional pieces, (visioning), and facilities costing

  • Timeline still good to get the report/analysis done before end of this school year



The meeting runs about 45 minutes so let’s listen to the FPS Comprehensive Facilities Planning Subcommittee meeting held on Jan 3, 2024. Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1126-fps-comprehensive-school-facility-planning-mtg-01-03-24



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School Committee page => https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee 


Meeting Agenda doc  ->  https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/agendas/comprehensive_facilities_planning_subcom-1_3_24.pdf 



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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/ or www.franklin.news/


If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com


The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana"  c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.


I hope you enjoy!

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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"


First meeting of the Comprehensive Facilities Planning Subcommittee gets understanding timeline for end of year report can be met (audio)
First meeting of the Comprehensive Facilities Planning Subcommittee gets understanding timeline for end of year report can be met (audio)

Franklin & Medway SEPACs announce 2 workshops

Happy New Year!
We are excited to announce 2 upcoming workshops.

These are free and open to all extended community members. Your child does not have to be receiving Special Education for you to attend.

  • Managing Behavior Challenges
Strategies for Preventing & Managing Challenging Behaviors in Young Children = Jan 11, 2024 at 7 PM
  • Neuropsychological Evaluations 101
What is a Neuropsychological Evaluation & What Can I Expect from it? = February 8, 2024 at 7 PM

Franklin & Medway SEPACs announce 2 workshops
Franklin & Medway SEPACs announce 2 workshops




Girl Scout Cookies for sale this weekend - Saturday, 1/06/24

Given the weather forecast for late Saturday into Sunday, there will be time early Saturday to stock up with Girl Scout Cookies this weekend!

Where will the cookies be in Franklin!
  • 1/06   10:00 AM - 2:00 PM @ Stop & Shop
  • 1/06   8:30 AM - 12 noon @ Post Office on Main St


Girl Scout Cookies for sale this weekend - Saturday, 1/06/24
Girl Scout Cookies for sale this weekend - Saturday, 1/06/24

LGBTQ Brunch with Friends - Jan 6 at 10:00 AM

The Franklin LGBTQ+ Alliance and the "Non-Scene" Friends LGBTQ Meetup are hosting a brunch to enjoy each other's company. Please come join us!
We'll be meeting on the first Saturday of January, April, July, and October, at Mak's Roast Beef in Franklin. Meet us there at 10:00 AM, and come hungry!

LGBTQ Brunch with Friends - Jan 6 at 10:00 AM
LGBTQ Brunch with Friends - Jan 6 at 10:00 AM

Franklin Democratic Town Cmte: Standout for Democracy - Jan 6

OPPORTUNITY TO ACT

Get your Justice Engines rev’ing! Join the Jan 6th Stand Out from 10 AM - 12 noon at the entrance to the Franklin Village Mall Shopping Area (Stop & Shop) on West Central St.

We have some signs or bring one for yourself.

Park in the parking area on the right where Middlesex Savings Bank is.  We will stand on the grassy area on West Central St.

Standout for Democracy - Jan 6
Standout for Democracy - Jan 6

Franklin Democratic Town Cmte
Franklin Democratic Town Cmte


2024 Janie Avenue Neighborhood Roadway Improvements (RFP)

2024 Janie Avenue Neighborhood Roadway Improvements

In accordance with MGL c. 30 section 39m, it is the intention of the Town of Franklin to retain the services of a construction firm for the purposes of constructing approximately 4,850 feet of roadway improvements along Janie Avenue, Schofield Drive, Eldon Drive, and Richard Lane  within the Town of Franklin. 

Additional Information:  2024 Janie Avenue Neighborhood Roadway Improvements

Shared from -> https://www.franklinma.gov/purchasing/bids/2024-janie-avenue-neighborhood-roadway-improvements

2024 Janie Avenue Neighborhood Roadway Improvements (RFP)
2024 Janie Avenue Neighborhood Roadway Improvements (RFP)


Rockland Trust: Now Accepting 2024 Scholarship Applications




Rockland Trust: Now Accepting 2024 Scholarship Applications
Rockland Trust: Now Accepting 2024 Scholarship Applications
As a community-oriented bank, Rockland Trust is committed to strengthening the neighborhoods we live in and serve. One of the ways we have proudly upheld this commitment is through our annual scholarship program
Starting December 15, 2023, our online application portal will begin accepting applications at RocklandTrust.com/Scholarship
Scholarship details:
  • Deadline to apply is March 8, 2024 or once 1,500 applications have been submitted.
  • Up to sixteen renewable awards will be given for $3,000 each.
  • Scholarships are available to students planning to attend an accredited two or four-year college/university or vocational program, either on a full or part-time basis.
Applications will be considered based on financial need, academic performance, participation in school and community activities, work experience, a statement of career and educational goals and objectives, and unusual personal or family circumstances.
Learn How to Apply

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MA State of the Commonwealth address scheduled for Jan 17, 2024

Maura Healey (@MassGovernor) posted Wed, Jan 03, 2024:
"This week, we'll mark one year since @MassLtGov and I were sworn in.

A year of saving people money.
A year of creating opportunity.
A year of making Massachusetts stronger.

On January 17th, tune in as I deliver my first State of the Commonwealth Address. #MASOTC "  https://t.co/sVjBGDmx3n

MA State of the Commonwealth address scheduled for Jan 17, 2024
MA State of the Commonwealth address scheduled for Jan 17, 2024

Franklin Health Dept: January is Winter Safety Awareness Month


"January is Winter Safety Awareness Month! Hypothermia kills on average 25,000 people in the U.S. a year. 
Avoid the risk of frostbite and hypothermia by dressing in layers, covering exposed skin, and limiting time outdoors. 
If someone might be experiencing either condition, seek medical attention immediately — and know your actions.  "
weather.gov/safety/cold-during
Franklin Health Dept: January is Winter Safety Awareness Month
Franklin Health Dept: January is Winter Safety Awareness Month

 

Franklin TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) schedule for Friday, Jan 5, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

8:30 am Frank Presents: Jay Elias Pt 2
9:30 am Frank's Musings: Israel
10:00 am Riffin' on Main Street: James McLaughlin
11:00 am Senior Connection: Disabilities Commission
12:00 pm Brook'n'Cookin: Waffles
12:30 pm Sons & Daughters of Italy: Ciambotta
1:00 pm Physician Focus: Telemedicine
1:30 pm Pizzapalooza: White Pizza
2:00 pm New England Candlepins: Summer 2018 Show 8
3:00 pm Winning Ways with the MIAA: Student Athletes October November
3:30 pm Winter Wonderland: Elvis Presley
5:00 pm Celebrate with Pride: Second Son
9:00 pm Circle of Friends: Ellis Paul

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

7:00 am Public School Concert: Horace Mann Winter Music 2023
8:30 am Mental Health: Amy Frigulietti
10:00 am FHS Varsity Wrestling: v Taunton 05-29-21
12:30 pm Arts Advocacy: How-Tos
1:30 pm Public School Event: FHS Chorus & Orchestra 2023
3:00 pm Critical Conversations: Student Wellbeing
8:30 pm FHS Varsity Swimming v King Philip 01-24-23

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

8:00 am  Zoning Board of Appeals 11-09-23
2:00 pm  Zoning Board of Appeals 11-09-23

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

Thursday, January 4, 2024

FPAC performs "Bright Star!" this weekend at THE BLACK BOX

The Franklin Performing Arts Company presents Steve Martin and Edie Brickell’s bluegrass musical Bright Star! Running this weekend only at THE BLACK BOX! Starring Ali Funkhouser, Robbie Rescigno, and Kyle Dalsimer.

Ali Funkhouser
Ali Funkhouser
Featuring the Tony-nominated bluegrass score by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell, Broadway’s Bright Star tells a sweeping tale of love and redemption set against the rich backdrop of the American South in the 1920s and ’40s. When literary editor Alice Murphy meets a young soldier just home from World War II, he awakens her longing for the child she once lost. An uplifting theatrical journey that holds audiences tightly in its grasp, Bright Star is as refreshingly genuine as it is daringly hopeful.


Directed by Raye Lynn Mercer with Music Direction by Hallie Wetzell and Choreography by Hannah Rezendes.


Tickets available at FPAConline.com or by calling the box office at 508-528-3370!