Live Reporting: Guests/Presentations

II. Guests/Presentations
A. Student Passion Project Presentation (Parmenter students)

• French club learning words, songs and making posters
• Animal rescue club has made dog toys and bird feeders
• Hometown heroes club learning about veterans who served for the country
• "??" collected coats/hats/mittens, 'reach out and read' for national reading month 
• Best Buddies - all about helping everyone make a friend, became the 9th elementary school to become an official chapter of Best Buddies

Parmenter students presenting on their passion projects to School Committee (assistance from principal and vice-principal) pic.twitter.com/0Jxr7LFeci

— Steve Sherlock (@FranklinMatters) March 10, 2020

B. Elementary School Improvement Plan Updates
all six elementary principals with assistant principals in support at meeting


presentation doc to be added later (released by FPS on Wednesday)

Franklin elementary school principals providing midyear update on the school improvement plans
(assistant principals present to support the presentation) pic.twitter.com/DIIuWKFwdr

— Steve Sherlock (@FranklinMatters) March 10, 2020

adjustment counselors were a positive impact, thanks for funding the balance to provide support across the elementary schools

counselors help to model lessons for teachers, will help to problem solve with teachers

Mo Willems, pigeon referenced as a student interest at Davis Thayer

wait list in pilot with YOU Inc, working out scheduling and insurance issues as well as finding other counselors (as YOU Inc expands)

Q - on scoring and how it is being evaluated? will the program go forward, what is the criteria to say yes or no

A - still developing the scoring calibration and we'll see the data later this year to see what progress if nay has been seen

improved communications on tardies and absences between administration and parents

developing a more unified approach to planning via the "Understanding by Design" (UbD) framework across the 6 schools
used "Portrait of a Graduate" as an example of the backward planning required. If that is the end, what do we need to do to get there

Genius Club = recess and lunch club at DT to allow for more time to explore a project or learning they want

some students are able to exit their interventionist period with good progress and meet grade level expectations

Q - what is an academic interventionist?
A - a qualified teacher individual working part time to provide individualized instruction in conjunction with the math and literacy specialists

working differently in the different schools in some cases due to the Title one funding restrictions

two way communications, coordinating with Anne Marie Tracey to prepare one-pager guides on K registration, etc.; help with website to make better updates

(FHS Diversity Club participated at Keller PDD day, possible visit to Town Council meeting? what the students said others in the community likely should hear)

capital expense possible with the architect looking at all the buildings
interventionists are still being explored and is an area of great opportunity

the needs of the students are challenging, every year it is increasing, you can't invest enough in that, you can always do more

different number of hours from school to school for intervention

PCC's are supportive of the side projects

Live reporting: School Committee - March 10, 2020

Present: D'Angelo, Keenan, Pfeffer, Scofield, Bergen, Spencer, Stokes
Absent: none

I. Routine Business
A. Review of Agenda
postponing the Oak St item from the consent agenda to a future TBD

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

C. FHS Student Representative Comments
peer leadership conf at Dean College
fashion show, Apr 2
boys basketball, hockey done playoff, girls basketball playing tonight

Chicago show coming
MICA performance 
what is the outlook on the coronavirus?

Superintendent responds
reminders to wash hands, maintain personal space, if not feeling well stay home
we are seeing schools close temporarily in other communities but we are not at that yet; following Board of Health guidance 
plug for the Town of Franklin portal
https://www.franklinma.gov/health-department/urgent-alerts/corona-virus-information-portal


D. Superintendent’s Report

update from the recent letter to the community
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/03/franklin-public-schools-coronovirus.html

music concerts going on at this time, exercise judgement with attendance

asked about distance learning? Dept of Ed is not authorizing at this time due to questions about the equity of access, relief on 180 days requirements being made

the school lunch program is in mind if schools were to be closed for a period

Governor declared State of Emergency today; important point creates flexibility for the State to response with resources and funding


Kennedy school incident, individual came forward today after the posts were made, had mistaken one Kennedy school for another in attempting to pick up a student

members of Central office, and others participated in guest reading at Oak St

FHS community partners and Cultural District in collaboration with LiveARTS, to host the string duo
Thanks to Diane Plouffe for putting this together

Franklin Public Schools: Coronovirus Update - Mar 10, 2020

March 10, 2020

Dear Franklin Families and Faculty/Staff,

I am writing with a follow-up communication to our March 8, 2020 and February 28, 2020 letters to the community. As a district, we continue to remain informed of the health advisories being issued by our local, state, and federal officials and agencies. We also continue to communicate internally among administrators, teachers, our local Health Department, School Nurse Leader, and consulting School Physician. Nursing staff are monitoring illness within the student body and are prepared to react appropriate to agency guidance.

Several questions emerged from the school community, which I address below.

Cleaning Procedures

Staff and families have inquired about more details related to our cleaning procedures. We are remaining vigilant about our routine cleaning practices which include: trash removal; cleaning, disinfecting, and stocking of our bathrooms; dry mopping floors or vacuuming carpets in classrooms and offices; dusting, cleaning surfaces, and wiping glass windows on a scheduled basis; and washing floors regularly and as needed.

In addition to this routine cleaning, our custodians have augmented with a disinfecting/sanitizing procedure. The custodians utilize Victory brand electrostatic sprayers, applying a Purell professional surface disinfectant to hard surfaces, commonly touched items such as doorknobs, handles, and counters, and high traffic spaces such as the main and nurses’ offices. They began using these sprayers last year when we had a spike in the seasonal flu. They have been using these several times a week including before and after weekend events in our schools.

Hand sanitizing stations are located throughout all of our schools; custodial staff are monitoring them to be sure they are full and operational. Additionally, our faculty and staff are emphasizing good handwashing practices, especially with our elementary students.

We have also asked our transportation company to increase its cleaning procedures. They have added the application of BruTab 6S to their cleaning routine. They are applying the product twice weekly in addition to daily cleaning. Our school-owned vans are also cleaned daily and a disinfecting electrostatic sprayer is used regularly.

In addition to regular use, the disinfecting procedures will be used in response to specific situations, if needed.

Evening Events and Gatherings

We remain informed and are following guidance about group events. We are also consulting with our local health department officials.

The music concerts scheduled for this evening and Thursday night will continue as planned. We feel it is important to provide our students with continuity of their curriculum in this content area and public performances are an important extension of the school learning environment. We understand that this may be of concern to some families.

Governor Baker’s press conference from earlier today identified that individuals may wish to exercise personal judgement in not attending large gatherings. This message has been emphasized for those who are at-risk including older individuals, those who are immune-compromised, or those who have
immune-compromised individuals in their household. We also ask that if you are exhibiting upper respiratory symptoms or flu-like conditions, that you also refrain from attending.

We respect that individuals may make personal decisions to not attend the performances. If families choose to keep a child or children home from participating in this event, there will not be negative consequences for them.

Other Items

For your reference, I would like to share the Town of Franklin’s Coronavirus portal, where the public can access the latest information:
https://www.franklinma.gov/health-department/urgent-alerts/corona-virus-information-portal

At this time, we have not cancelled travel plans but are reviewing field trips in light of Governor Baker’s press conference today. We will issue an update later this week about those.

Again, please keep children home from school when they are ill. If your child has any of the following symptoms please keep them home from school: temperature greater than 100, coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, any rash not yet diagnosed by a physician, red or pink itchy eye, and/or drainage from eye, and any contagious illness such as chicken pox, strep throat or flu. We also ask that staff stay home when they are ill in order to prevent the spread of infections.

The Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) continues to be an evolving situation that we are following closely. We will keep you informed with updates and information that become available to us.

Sincerely,

Sara E. Ahern, Ed.D. 
Superintendent of Schools


Prior letters for reference
1 - https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/02/franklin-public-schools-information.html
2 - https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/03/franklin-public-schools-update-on.html

Coronavirus Information Portal

Franklin Public Schools: Kennedy School incident of March 6th, 2020

"Police announced Tuesday night that the individual the Franklin Police was interested in identifying earlier in the day had come forward. 

The announcement came hours have they issued a press release saying they were trying to identify a young man who entered the John F. Kennedy School on Pond Street last Friday after classes had concluded for the day. 

“There was no criminal intent and the matter is resolved,” said in a statement issued Tuesday night."

https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200310/update-franklin-police-locate-and-id-man-who-entered-kennedy-school-adding-there-was-no-criminal-intent

Kennedy School incident of March 6, 2020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 10, 2020 2:30 PM

"Franklin, Massachusetts: On Friday March 6, 2020 an unknown male individual made entry to the John F. Kennedy School on Pond Street. This occurred after school hours; however students participating in after school programs were still on site.

After making entry by entering though an open door as another parent left, he proceeded into a common hallway where he was confronted by school staff and questioned as to his reason for being in the school. At no time did he come into contact with any students. His answers to staff questions were inconsistent, and he was escorted from the building immediately.

"Franklin Police Department is only seeking to identify the individual in the photos"

At this time the Franklin Police Department is only seeking to identify the individual in the photos. No criminal charges are pending at this time.

If you have any information on this individual please contact the Franklin Police Detective Division at 508-528-1212 and press option #6."


Shared from the Town of Franklin page
https://www.franklinma.gov/police-department/news/kennedy-school-incident-march-6th-2020

Franklin Disabilities Commission: Ability Summit - April 18

The Franklin Disabilities Commission is holding an Ability Summit on Saturday, April 18 from 12 PM - 3 PM at the Franklin Senior Center. 

All are welcome! 

Please see the attached flyer for more details and contact information.

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/uploads/20200306111229537.pdf

Franklin Disabilities Commission: Ability Summit - April 18

FM #222 - Franklin Matters Radio with Town Administrator Jamie Hellen and Anne Marie Tracey

FM #222 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 222 in the series.

The first of a monthly series of discussions with Town Administrator Jamie Hellen was recorded in the Franklin Public Radio studio recently. Anne Marie Tracey, Marketing and Communication Specialist, joined Jamie and I for this session.

Ultimately, the plan for these sessions will be to broadcast these live. The first couple of sessions will help the studio prepare for this to go live by recording them as if we were live, then making them available for replay.

The radio show format will be deliberately ‘long form’ with a topic or two in each broadcast to spend some time with. Not so much to get into dollars and cents details but to get into the reasons why, and the rationale behind the pros and cons of the major items before us.

There will be a segment for questions from the audience. You can submit a question via the Google form on the Franklin Matters page
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/02/ask-franklin-matters-you-ask-question.html

In this session, we cover Jamie's background and how that prepared him for Town Administrator, success planning being done where possible across Franklin, a teaser on the budget process which starts now, and some info on the stormwater utility fee and information sessions scheduled for March. There will be more to come on stormwater as the details get worked out.

This audio segment runs about an hour, so let’s listen to my conversation with Jamie and Anne Marie https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/HcQcbQpX




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

We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm).

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"

 

FM #222 - Franklin Matters Radio with Town Administrator Jamie Hellen and Anne Marie Tracey

"Six Rounds of Vengeance" returns to FHS March 13

"Six Rounds of Vengeance returns to FHS on 3/13, at 730pm. Tickets are $10 for all patrons. Come support the FHSTC and their semi-final round submission for the METG Drama Festival.

This show contains strong language, and stage violence and may not be suitable for young audiences."

Shared from Twitter:
https://twitter.com/FranklinHSDrama/status/1237006967320821760

Six Rounds of Vengeance returns to FHS on 3/13

Town Council recap - MArch 4, 2020

Walter Zinchuck, the oldest Franklin resident, 102 years young, received the Boston Post Cane

The resolution on Civil Discourse passed after much discussion.

Municipal aggregation was confirmed as happening in November 2020. You can opt out of it. Why? If you already ahve a long term electrical contract or already have solar panels... For the rest of us, we get to see a savings with green energy (wind power) and a rate of 10.5 cents/KWH for three years. More to come on this as the Sep/Oct time frame when mailings to all the residential customers will be sent. In the meantime, more info can be found on the Colonial Power page for Franklin  https://colonialpowergroup.com/franklin/

The first look at the budget for Fiscal Year 2021 was presented showing a deficit of $3.5M which will need to be resolved before passing a balanced budget by June 30,2020.

From the meeting I created two audio files to listen to meeting segments:

• Audio segment on Civil Discourse

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/03/fm-218-town-council-citizen-comments.html

• Audio segment on FY 2021

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/03/fm-220-town-council-fy-2021-budget.html


Actions Taken
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-council/files/tc-actions-taken-3420


My notes reported live during the meeting

• Live reporting: Town Administrators Report to Closing

 https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/03/live-reporting-town-administrators.html

• Live reporting: Legislation for action

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/03/live-reporting-legislation-for-action.html

• Live reporting: Civil Discourse Discussion

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/03/live-reporting-civil-discourse.html

• Live reporting: FY 2021 Budget Update

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/03/live-reporting-fy-2021-budget-update.html

• Live reporting: Municipal Aggregation

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/03/live-reporting-municipal-aggregation.html

• Live reporting: Town Council - March 4, 2020

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/03/live-reporting-town-council-march-4-2020.html

Walter Zinchuck, the oldest Franklin resident, 102 years young, received the Boston Post Cane

OCC Coffeehouse: Tom Paxton & The Don Juans - March 20

Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award winner and folk icon, Tom Paxton, teams up with the Grammy winning singer/songwriter duo The Don Juans - Don Henry & Jon Vezner. Collectively, their songs have been covered by: Harry Belafonte, John Mellencamp, Miranda Lambert, Neil Diamond, Ray Charles, Nancy Griffith, Judy Collins, Pete Seeger, Janis Ian, Kathy Mattea, John Denver, Faith Hill, B.J. Thomas, Blake Shelton, Peter, Paul & Mary and Bob Dylan… just to name a few! Within days of writing and playing together, they knew they were onto something. Now they’re taking it on the road!

Tom Paxton has become a voice of his generation, addressing issues of injustice and inhumanity, laying bare the absurdities of modern culture and celebrating the tenderest bonds of family, friends, and community. Among his many songs that have become standards are The Last Thing on My Mind, Ramblin' Boy, Bottle of Wine, Whose Garden Was This?, Goin' to the Zoo, and The Marvelous Toy.

OCC Coffeehouse: TOM PAXTON  & THE DON JUANS - March 20

At Don Henry's shows, you'll easily spot those who have yet to hear his songs. Upon first experiencing them, the listener is often moved to laughter or tests, sometimes both at the same time! And everyone leaves humming, because Don Henry songs songs stay with you.

Mary-Chapin Carpenter said "Jon Venzer writes about the details of our hearts and feelings. His gift is in speaking to these ordinary things which connect us to one another And in recognizing their simple beauty, he transforms them into something extraordinary."

Tickets for the concert are $20, available at the church office, 508-384-3110, or at www.musicatocc.org. The event will be in Fellowship Hall at the back of the church with entry from the parking lot behind the church. Parking is available behind the church and in the lot across the street. For more information and to be added to the mailing list, visit the website or contact Ken Graves, 508-384-8084, occmusic99@gmail.com.

SPECIAL OFFER FOR THE NEXT FOUR CONCERTS

We have noticed that occasionally people like to gather their friends or fellow group members to attend one of our concerts as a group. As a way to encourage that, we will give you 2 free tickets for every 10 tickets you purchase. For instance, if you buy 10 tickets, you will get 12. Buying 20 tickets gets you a total of 24. Give it a try! More people to share the fun with!

OTHER SHOWS IN THE 2019-2020 SEASON

AT OCC COFFEEHOUSE: Tickets are now available for all shows on the website. All shows are general admission seating, so arrive early for good seats.

** Saturday, April 25, 2020, Aztec Two-Step 2.0, featuring Rex Fowler, Dodie Pettit & Friends. Now that Neal Shulman has retired, Rex continues on, recapturing the sound of the duo's original studio recordings.

** Sunday, May 24, 2020, Ted Vigil, John Denver Tribute. Ted is an award-winning singer, songwriter and tribute artist. He performs internationally, and wows the crowd, selling out theatres everywhere. A typical comment is "I can't believe how much he looks and sounds like John Denver."

You ask - we answer: tax our driveways?

Q - Is it true that the town is going to tax our driveways? Sounds pretty ridiculous to me but I heard it from a trusted friend?

A - Yes and no. There is a stormwater utility fee coming that could be viewed as a tax that will apply to all landowners and the impervious coverage they have. "Impervious" simply is coverage that wouldn't allow for penetration of water into the ground. So roofs, driveways, pools, tennis courts, etc. would all count toward the impervious amount of square feet on an individual property. 

While there will be a fee charged, the rate remains to be determined. There will also be credits for mitigation of stormwater. These details and others remain to be worked out. 

As an example: while my driveway needs to be replaced, if I were to get it covered with some paving blocks rather than blacktop, I would likely qualify for some credit for mitigating my impervious coverage. The exact details for paving block to be used and amount of credit are among those details to be worked out.

The Town has created a stormwater page which will capture the Frequently Asked Questions, presentation documents, and other information:  https://www.franklinma.gov/stormwater-division

In the first session held, March 6, it was revealed there would be more sessions as the stormwater utility fee proposal moved forward. Stay tuned to find out. We'll share as soon as we hear.

The current information sessions scheduled:

• March 11 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Franklin TV Studios
• March 21 from 11 AM - 1 PM at Franklin Public Library

The schedule was posted on the Town of Franklin page

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/uploads/storm_water_8.5_x_11_in_0.pdf

The Franklin Police dog, Ben Franklin, made an appearance at the stormwater information session

Submit your question here

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/02/ask-franklin-matters-you-ask-question.html

9th annual Culinary Cabaret at THE BLACK BOX - Apr 3

Join us at THE BLACK BOX when the culinary and performing arts unite for an inspired evening of fabulous food, wine and entertainment!

The 9th annual Culinary Cabaret spotlights this region's outstanding culinary talent, showcasing fine wines, craft beer, flavorful dishes and delectable desserts!

Featuring entertainment by Electric Youth and special guest artists of the Franklin Performing Arts Company. Culinary Cabaret supports Electric Youth!

When: April 3, 2020 - 7:00 to 10:00 PM

Where: THE BLACK BOX,  15 West Central Street, Franklin, MA

Your all-inclusive ticket delivers a delicious, entertaining evening!
Check out our website for more information and updates.
https://www.theblackboxonline.com/events.php?id=1353

Only until March 1st - save $20 on a pair of tickets, so get your tickets today!

 

9th annual Culinary Cabaret - April 3

You ask - we answer: Dean Ave apartment complex?

Q - What is the name of the apartment complex being built on Dean Ave lumber yard site?

A - "Fairfield At Dean Avenue" per the planning documents is the approved project for 257 units; 127 x 1 bedroom, 116 x 2 bedroom and 14 x 3 bedroom apartments.

The Planning Board project page has the site plan map and the site plan application with additional details
https://www.franklinma.gov/planning-board/pages/dean-ave-fairfield-residents

Photo taken on walk by Feb 18

Submit your question here
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/02/ask-franklin-matters-you-ask-question.html

"Staffing is the biggest expense for nursing homes" ... "There were years in which my staff got no raises"

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"Christopher House of Worcester is in relatively good shape for a nursing home. Residents — some who have lived there for years — receive attentive care and take part in activities such as the ice cream social several were enjoying on Wednesday. The 24-year-old building is in comfortable condition.

“Nobody wants to go to a nursing home, but sometimes people really thrive here,” said Sandra Mahoney, administrator of the nonprofit Christopher House.

Mahoney said it’s a constant frustration finding money to adequately pay direct care staff to maintain high quality care and to invest in the physical plant.

That’s because Medicaid, the state-administered program that pays for long-term care for people with low income, effectively limits nursing homes’ revenue through payment based on costs that are several years old. About two-thirds of nursing home residents, nearly 30,000 frail elders statewide, rely on Medicaid to pay for their care."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200309/residential-care-at-crossroads

Sandra Mahoney, MHA, FACHCA Administrator with resident (Christopher House photo

Credit Repair Company Settles FTC Charges It Deceived Consumers By Telling Them “Piggybacking” on Others’ Credit Could Boost Scores

Credit Repair Company Settles FTC Charges It Deceived Consumers By Telling Them "Piggybacking" on Others' Credit Could Boost Scores

Defendants promise "huge" credit score increases, ease in obtaining mortgages

A Colorado-based credit repair company and its owner have agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges they mislead consumers with promises to "drastically and immediately" improve credit scores and increase access to lower rates on mortgages.

In its complaint against the operators of BoostMyScore.net (BMS), the FTC alleges that the defendants guaranteed consumers that, in exchange for fees ranging from $325 to $4,000, they could "piggyback" on unrelated consumers' good credit, artificially inflating their own credit score in the process.

"Good credit isn't for sale," said Andrew Smith, Director of the FTC's Bureau of Consumer Protection. "This company charged people thousands of dollars based on hollow promises that 'piggybacking' on a stranger's good credit would raise their credit score or help them get a mortgage."

In piggybacking, a consumer pays to be listed on another person's well-maintained credit account, ostensibly receiving the benefit of the good account on their own credit even though they can't access the account. In this case, the FTC alleges, defendants charged struggling consumers steep, illegal fees and made unsupported promises about how piggybacking would pave the way to new credit, including mortgages and other loan products.

According to the complaint, BMS made unwarranted promises in various advertisements that consumers' credit scores would increase by anywhere from 100 to 120 points over two to six weeks. BMS also allegedly charged consumers upfront for the credit repair services they offered, which is illegal under the Credit Repair Organizations Act (CROA). The complaint alleges that the defendants violated the FTC Act, CROA, and the Telemarketing Sales Rule (TSR).

Under the terms of the proposed settlement with the FTC that will soon be filed with the court, BoostMyScore, LLC, BMS, Inc., and William O. Airy will be prohibited from selling fake access to another consumer's credit as an authorized user and from collecting advance fees for credit repair services, as well as other violations of CROA. They will also be prohibited from misrepresenting a product or service as being legal, as well as from misrepresenting the terms of a refund or return policy. The defendants also will be banned from further violations of the TSR. The settlement also includes a monetary judgment of $6,630,678, which will be partially suspended upon payment of $64,863 due to the defendants' inability to pay. Should the defendants be found to have misrepresented their financial condition, the full judgment would be immediately payable.

The Commission vote authorizing the staff to file the complaint and stipulated final order was 5-0. The FTC filed the complaint and final order in the U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado.

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. Stipulated final orders have the force of law when approved and signed by the District Court judge.

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.

This was shared from
https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/press-releases/2020/03/credit-repair-company-settles-ftc-charges-it-deceived-consumers?

https://twitter.com/FTC

B I N G O, and Bingo was his name oh! #ShopFranklinBINGO

Catching up to sharing this #ShopFranklinBINGO card

Thanks to Melanie Hamblen for creating this excuse to visit some Franklin retail locations!

"Happy March! Happy #ShopFranklinBingo month. Bring this card with you as you #ShopFranklin for the month of March. Have the shop keeper sign and date the square that corresponds to your purchase. Be creative and most of all have fun! 

Turn in one Bingo, or fill up the card. Your BINGO's are entries into raffles. More than one entry is allowed. 

Turn the cards in by April 7 for some awesome prizes. Purchases must be from locally owned, independent businesses."

Download your #ShopFranklinBINGO card here or via the embedded file below
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NdEVKi7WCbh8qwRh_2O3ODnTFSxgcUEJ/view?usp=sharing

B I N G O, and bingo was his name oh!

This was shared from the #ShopFranklin Facebook post
https://www.facebook.com/groups/shopFranklin/permalink/2628373703939800/

FPAC Features Broadway Dogs in Legally Blonde

The Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) has announced the initial casting for their March production of Legally Blonde the Musical. The production stars Broadway and NYC talent, local actors, students of the performing arts, and features Jerry Mitchell’s original Broadway choreography. Also sharing the stage in Legally Blonde will be Frankie and Romeo from William Berloni Theatrical Animals in the roles of Bruiser and Rufus. 

Tony Award winner William Berloni and his handlers have provided animals of all species and sizes, found in shelters, humane societies or rescue leagues, for Broadway, off-Broadway, national tours, regional theaters, special events, the New York City Ballet, motion pictures, television, and commercials.

The FPAC cast is working with handler Rochelle Scudder to learn the different cues and commands involved with the canine actors. “Sometimes we meet actors who are afraid of dogs, allergic to dogs, or lack the instincts ‘dog people’ have,” says Scudder. “When that happens, we have to go back to basics and take extra time to make everyone comfortable.” 


Luckily, the FPAC actors and Berloni Dogs are getting along wonderfully. “The FPAC cast bonded with the dogs very quickly. They are all naturals and are making my job easy.” Tony Award winning trainer William Berloni will be on hand at THE BLACK BOX for the production’s closing weekend.

Ali Funkhouser, who plays Elle Woods, has worked with Berloni Theatrical Animals in previous productions of Legally Blonde. “It’s a fun added element to the show,” she says. “The dogs are the ultimate pros.”

Legally Blonde the Musical presented by the Franklin Performing Arts Company will run at THE BLACK BOX in downtown Franklin March 14, 15, 20, 21, and 22. For tickets and more information, visit www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com or call the box office at 508-528-3370.

FPAC Features Broadway Dogs in Legally Blonde

Berloni Theatrical Animals are sponsored for FPAC’s production by Franklin Veterinary Clinic, The Parkman Family Foundation, Dr. Hedley Marks/Ashfield-Cheyne Vet Service, VetMed Pet Supplies, and Shear Elegance Pet Services. Local canine fans will be pictured in the playbill as members of the Bruiser sponsor club. FPAC’s Legally Blonde the Musical is sponsored by Doherty, Dugan, Cannon, Raymond, and Weil P.C., WirkusFlynnYoung, Roy Law, and John Roche. Dean Bank is an FPAC Season Sponsor.

FM #221 School Committee Demographics Overview HMMS - 3/5/20 (audio)

FM #221 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 221 in the series.

The School Committee Facility Analysis Subcommittee held an information session to review the demographics study released recently. The session was well attended (approx 35) in the Horace Mann Middle School cafeteria on Thursday, March 5, 2020.

Superintendent Sara Ahern and Subcommittee Chair Elise Stokes coordinated to deliver the presentation and handle the questions. The session deliberately included names tags and a brief intro of folks to each other sitting around the middle school cafe tables.

Subcommittee Chair Elise Stokes

There is a brief interruption of happy shouting in the recording from the student performance or rehearsal for such taking place in the auditorium next to the cafeteria.

The presentation doc is supposed to be made available. When it is, the link will be shared here.

There will also be a separate page to collect and share information as the facility study makes progress. As was revealed in the presentation and discussion, this will take some time to complete properly. The key will be what the facility analysis reveals when it is shared in May at a School Committee meeting.

The presentation doc from the School Committee meeting (including the audio) can be found here
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/02/fm-212-school-committee-meeting.html

Regular listeners perhaps will recognize my voice chiming in with a question or two, and the comment on the lack of senior type housing available in the Franklin market. “Senior type” meaning single level, one or two bedroom units. Most of the condos and apartments are multiple levels.

The audio segment runs about an hour, so let’s listen in to the presentation and discussion of the demographics study 
https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-221-school-committee-demographics-overview

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We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm).

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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The milestones along the facility study path

Franklin Newcomers and Friends features Steve Sherlock - March 11

Come join your friends and neighbors at the Franklin Newcomers and Friends monthly Meeting. Meet us upstairs at "3" Restaurant on Wednesday, March 11 at 7:30. 

We are so pleased to welcome Steve Sherlock as our speaker. He single-handedly created Franklin Matters in 2007, a daily source of information about everything that matters in Franklin. Anyone can sign up for a free subscription on Franklinmatters.org. In addition to attending local government meetings, school events and supporting local community organizations, Steve provides some photojournalism as he reports on his weekly walks around our community. He is a true treasure in Franklin; a local Hero! It will be an interesting and informative evening!

Franklin Newcomers and Friends

No need to be a newcomer to the area . . . and no need to RSVP. Come join us and have fun while you make connections in your community. We are a multi-generational club offering a wide range of activities for all ages with an emphasis on fun and camaraderie. We are a member driven organization and are always excited to welcome new faces and new ideas.

Residents of Franklin, or any surrounding town that doesn't have a Newcomers Club, are welcome to join us the 2nd Wednesday of the month (occasionally we switch Wednesdays to accommodate holidays or speakers). We run our meetings September through May. 

We meet at “3” Restaurant, 461 W. Central Street, Franklin, upstairs in a private room. Complimentary hot appetizers and beverages are provided and a cash bar is available.

Additionally, we hold many fun and varied events to stay connected throughout the year. Look for us on our website www.franklinnewcomers.com, or on our Facebook page or on Meetup.com, Franklin Newcomers & Friends Club. 


Yes, this is a public appearance which I will make and be the speaker, not the reporter. I have a few stories to tell, some photos to share, and a few tips on navigating the news. Bring your questions!

“I’m blessed with three, but it’s probably not enough”

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"Coronavirus headlines dominate the public’s attention. Worldwide cases exceed 105,000, with more than 3,500 deaths, including 19 in the U.S., and the World Health Organization urged governments to “pull out all the stops” to fight the disease.

The headlines put a spotlight on an existing problem in Massachusetts, according to one public health advocate – not enough funding for local public health departments to tackle big public health issues, like coronavirus, and smaller ones, including restaurant inspections that protect the public against food-borne illness.

“Headlines (about coronavirus) recognize that it’s time for investment (in local public health),” said Carlene Pavlos, executive director of the Massachusetts Public Health Association.

In the Bay State, it’s a story of haves and have nots when it comes to public health. Much of the disparity comes down to population. Bigger communities have room in their budgets to carve out money for public health, while smaller communities often don’t have that luxury."

 Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200309/advocate-says-there-arent-enough-resources-for-public-health-protection

The quote is from Natick. Franklin has one health inspector for our 34,000 population. As the budget discussion has just begun, this is timely.

Town of Franklin Health Dept  https://www.franklinma.gov/health-department

https://www.franklinma.gov/health-department/urgent-alerts/corona-virus-information-portal

Franklin Public Schools: Update on Coronavirus from Superintendent Ahern

March 8, 2020

Dear Franklin Families and Faculty/Staff,

I am writing with a follow-up communication to the February 28, 2020 letter to the community. As a district, we continue to remain informed of the health advisories being issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH), the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), and other agencies. We also continue to communicate internally among administrators, teachers, our local Health Department, School Nurse Leader, and consulting School Physician. Nursing staff are monitoring illness within the student body and are prepared to react appropriately. Our response continues to align with agency guidance.

MDPH continues to communicate that the immediate risk to the general public remains low. The Town of Franklin has developed a Coronavirus portal, where the public can access the latest information:
https://www.franklinma.gov/health-department/urgent-alerts/corona-virus-information-portal

We continue to remain vigilant about keeping a clean school environment. Our custodians are engaged in the regular cleaning of schools, as they routinely do during cold and flu season. They have also augmented this regular cleaning with additional cleaning and sanitization of hard surfaces. They have also made sure that the hand-sanitizing stations, located across all schools, are full and operable. We continue to reinforce that ill students and staff should remain at home.

We learned over the weekend that two staff members, who are asymptomatic, have been asked to self-quarantine after having attended a function with someone who tested positive for COVID-19. One staff member works at Horace Mann Middle School and one at Annie Sullivan Middle School. We have sought guidance from MDPH on this matter and are assured that we do not need to take additional steps at this time. Out of an abundance of caution, custodial staff were called in on Sunday to conduct an extra round of cleaning and sanitization of both Horace Mann Middle School and Annie Sullivan Middle School, as well as the common spaces shared with Oak St. Elementary and Keller Elementary schools.

Earlier in the week, Governor Baker urged schools to cancel international spring field trips. Franklin does not currently have an overseas trip planned for the spring; however, we have a trip to Switzerland and Germany planned for the summer. At this time, we have not cancelled travel plans but are remaining informed of cancellation guidance about summer international travel, as well as local, regional, and national travel. We are also remaining informed about any guidance that is issued related to large gatherings.

Undoubtedly, children are hearing a lot about the Coronavirus. This resource may be of assistance to you in addressing questions they may ask:
https://www.open-circle.org/what-s-new/how-to-talk-to-kids-about-coronavirus

As a reminder, here are some general precautions we all should take to remain healthy:

● Practice good hand hygiene. Wash your hands often and thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. Use Alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available.
● When coughing and sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue. You can also cough or sneeze into your sleeve. Throw used tissues in the trash and immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
● Avoid sharing drinking glasses, cups, eating utensils, dishes, towels or other items. Wash these items thoroughly with soap and water after use.
● Avoid close contact with people who are sick whenever possible.
● Practice other good health habits: Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces at home, work or school, especially when someone is ill. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.

Again, please keep children home from school when they are ill. If your child has any of the following symptoms please keep them home from school: temperature greater than 100, coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, any rash not yet diagnosed by a physician, red or pink itchy eye, and/or drainage from eye, and any contagious illness such as chicken pox, strep throat or flu. We also ask that staff stay home when they are ill in order to prevent the spread of infections.

The Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) continues to be an evolving situation that we are following closely. We will keep you informed with updates and information that become available to us. We continue to seek out information, sharing it as appropriate, and following all recommended guidelines to ensure the safety of our students and staff, as we are deeply committed to their well-being.

Sincerely,

Sara E. Ahern, Ed.D. 
Superintendent of Schools

This was shared from the PDF copy received. You can download a copy here
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KY2DY_kSW-0dgxgxSlqVDKbE58E2ATqf/view?usp=sharing

Superintendent Ahern speaking at HMMS on the demographics study 3/5/20