Tuesday, March 10, 2020

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

Submit your question here

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
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
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
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
https://twitter.com/FTC

Monday, March 9, 2020

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!
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
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
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

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

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"

The milestones along the facility study path
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
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
https://www.franklinma.gov/health-department/urgent-alerts/corona-virus-information-portal



Sunday, March 8, 2020

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

FM #220 - Town Council FY 2021 budget overview - 3/4/20 (audio)

FM #220 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 220 in the series.

The Town Council meeting of Wednesday, March 4, 2020 featured, among its many topics the initial look at the FY 2021 budget. It projects a deficit of $3.5M which will need to be resolved before the budget is finalized by the end of June 2020.

To remind folks, Franklin operates on a fiscal calendar. We are currently operating under the FY 2020 budget which carries us through June 2020. The FY 2021 budget would begin to provide funding for operations from July 2020 through June 2021.

The show notes provide links to the key Town of Franklin budget page and to specific documents

This is the real beginning of the budget process or cycle for FY 2021. The key dates to follow are
  • March 24 - School Committee Budget Hearing
  • April 7, 8, 13 and 29 - Finance Committee Budget hearing meetings
  • April 14 - Final School Committee Budget approval
  • May 21 and 22 - Town Council Budget Hearings

The audio segment from the Town Council meeting runs about 31 minutes, so let’s listen in to a preview of the FY 2021 budget  https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/HskhsYjX



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

Town of Franklin budget page
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-budget

Town Administration FY 2021 budget introduction
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/mai/files/8b._fy21_budget_update.pdf

Superintendent’s Recommended School budget for FY 2021 (audio and links)
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/03/fm-214-superintendents-recommended.html

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 #220 - Town Council FY 2021 budget overview - 3/4/20 (audio)
FM #220 - Town Council FY 2021 budget overview - 3/4/20 (audio)

FM #219 - Budget SubCommittee Meeting - March 4, 2020 (audio)

FM #219 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 219 in the series.

The Budget Subcommittee met at 6:00 PM on Wednesday, March 4, 2020 before the Town Council meeting that same night.

The agenda was an FY 2021 budget update, effectively a preview of what was going to be covered in the full Town Council meeting. The conversation in the meeting provides some insights into the overall budget discussion. The meeting audio runs about 30 minutes, so let’s listen in to a preview of the FY 2021 budget https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/H1Y99CjX




-----------

To remind folks, Franklin operates on a fiscal calendar. We are currently operating under the FY 2020 budget which carries us through June 2020. The FY 2021 budget would begin to provide funding for operations from July 2020 through June 2021.

This is the real beginning of the budget process or cycle for FY 2021. The key dates to follow are


  • March 24 - School Committee Budget Hearing
  • April 7, 8, 13 and 29 - Finance Committee Budget hearing meetings
  • April 14 - Final School Committee Budget approval
  • May 21 and 22 - Town Council Budget Hearings

Budget Subcommittee agenda
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/03-04-2020_budget_subcommittee_meeting.pdf

Town of Franklin budget page
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-budget

Town Administration FY 2021 budget introduction
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/mai/files/8b._fy21_budget_update.pdf

Superintendent’s Recommended School budget for FY 2021 (audio and links)
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/03/fm-214-superintendents-recommended.html

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 #219 - Budget SubCommittee Meeting - March 4, 2020 (audio)
FM #219 - Budget SubCommittee Meeting - March 4, 2020 (audio)

Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - March 10, 2020

Vision Statement
The Franklin Public Schools will foster within its students the knowledge and skills to find and achieve satisfaction in life as productive global citizens.

A G E N D A
“The listing of matters are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair which may be discussed at the meeting. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by law.”


I. Routine Business
A. Review of Agenda
B. Citizen’s Comments
In the spirit of open communication, “the Committee will hold a public participation segment (also called Citizen’s Comments) about matters not related to an agenda item at the beginning of each regular School Committee meeting. The Committee will listen to, but not respond to any comment made…. A Committee member may add an agenda item to a future meeting as a result of a citizen comment…. The Committee will hear public comments related to an agenda item when the Chair deems appropriate during the Committee meeting. Topics for discussion during the meeting must be limited to those items listed on the Committee meeting agenda for that evening…. ” - from Policy BEDH
C. FHS Student Representative Comments
D. Superintendent’s Report

II. Guests/Presentations
A. Student Passion Project Presentation (Parmenter students)
B. Elementary School Improvement Plan Updates

III. Discussion/Action Items
A. Policy – 2nd Reading / Adoption
I recommend adoption of policy BEDH – Public Participation at School Committee meetings as detailed.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1wiNkmfLCqKXN-X8HO8VPIFh_LqJEcNTY/view?usp=sharing

IV. Discussion Only Items
A. FY21 Budget Discussion
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1mEpYp_hrinZcboiNm8B4ha0WiYxWYLGs/view?usp=sharing

B. Student Opportunities Act Plan
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zPMR05pGNy4t0OjULSUeb0Wa4Fyv5iCW/view?usp=sharing

V. Information Matters
A. School Committee Sub-Committee Reports (e.g. Ad Hoc Supt. Evaluation, Ad Hoc Facilities Analysis, Budget, Community Relations/Public Schools Advocacy, Policy, Transportation)
B. School Committee Liaison Reports (e.g. Joint PCC, Substance Abuse Task Force, School Wellness Advisory Council)

VI. New Business
A. To discuss any future agenda items

VII. Consent Agenda
A. Approval of Minutes
I recommend approval of the minutes from the February 25, 2020 School Committee Meeting as detailed.
B. ASMS Gift
I recommend acceptance of a check for $650.00 from the Franklin Cultural Council for in-house enrichment at Annie Sullivan Middle School as detailed.
C. Oak Street Gifts
I recommend acceptance of two checks totaling $8,336.25 from the Oak Street PCC for in-house enrichment and field trips for Oak Street Elementary School as detailed.
D. Oak Street Trip
I recommend approval of the request of Allison Fuller to take 3rd grade students to The Veteran’s Auditorium in Providence, RI on May 19, 2020 for a performance as detailed.
E. SATF - Hidden in Plain Sight Grant Award
I recommend acceptance of a check for $500.00 from the Norfolk District Attorney for in-house enrichment as detailed.

VIII. Payment of Bills Dr. Bergen

IX. Payroll Ms. D’Angelo

X. Executive Session
Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(3) to discuss strategy with respect to collective bargaining with the FEA as an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the bargaining position of the School Committee and the chair so declares.

XI. Adjournment

The file released for this meeting can be found online at the Town of Franklin page
https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee/pages/march-10-2020-school-committee-packet

Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - March 10, 2020
Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - March 10, 2020

Reminder: Stormwater Information Session - March 11

The Town of Franklin is holding three storm water information sessions to educate residents on the facts of storm water and the financial impact. Come meet Ben Franklin and learn more! Ben will be at all 3 events.
  • Wednesday, March 11, 6 - 8 PM at Franklin TV
  • Saturday, March 21, 11 AM - 1 PM at Franklin Library
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/uploads/storm_water_8.5_x_11_in_0.pdf

And yes, it is true that Ben will provide the ruff overview! (sorry, that was too good to pass on!)

Franklin Residents: Stormwater Information Sessions Scheduled
Franklin Residents: Stormwater Information Sessions Scheduled

2020 Census Invitations Arrive March 12-20

"Ninety-five percent or about 143 million households in the country will receive an initial invitation to respond to the 2020 Census in their mailboxes between March 12 and 20. The U.S. Census Bureau released informational copies today of the invitations, the enclosed materials, and the subsequent reminders households will receive. These materials can help the public know what to expect and avoid potential scams.

Households are encouraged to respond when they receive their invitation. Depending on how likely the area is to respond online, households will receive either an invitation encouraging them to respond online or by phone (about 112 million households), or an invitation along with a paper questionnaire (about 31 million households).

All invitations will include a short phrase in English and 12 additional languages inviting people to respond online or by phone in their language. In areas where 20 percent or more of the households need Spanish assistance, the invitations will be in both English and Spanish.

All households receiving an invitation in the mail will receive a second letter in the mail shortly after reminding them to respond. Then, households that still haven’t responded will receive a series of additional reminders, including a paper questionnaire in mid-April. Census takers will follow up with households that don’t respond to collect responses in person."
This was shared from the 2020 Census page
https://www.census.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2020/2020-invitations-arrive.html

A sample of the English/Spanish letter coming in the mail

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1g4CSkYK1fXOrOHCp_etDJX7qb6bcNmiM/view?usp=sharing



2020 Census Invitations Arrive March 12-20
2020 Census Invitations Arrive March 12-20

In the News: Firefighters serve seniors traditional Irish meal; some residents don't like the civil discourse pledge

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

"St. Patrick’s Day came early to the Franklin Senior Center on Friday, as members of the Fire Department spent lunchtime serving plates of corned beef and cabbage, with potatoes and carrots, to a few dozen seniors.

Although the Lenten season has begun, Catholics in the group had no need to worry about enjoying the classic St. Patty’s day meal instead of sticking with fish and vegetables.

Firefighters had that covered.

“Maybe next year we’ll try not to plan it on a Friday during Lent,” said firefighter/paramedic Doug Perro, going on to quip, “However, we talked to Father Brian (Manning, of the Parish of St. Mary), so you get a special dispensation ... if you’re over 59.”
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200307/franklin-firefighters-dish-up-new-tradition/1

"That’s what the Franklin Fire Department is all about."
"That’s what the Franklin Fire Department is all about."

"A civil discourse pledge has upset dozens of residents who say the Town Council is targeting free speech rights when it comes to their – and certain councilors’ – online activity. One resident has even suggested it’s a violation of the U.S. Constitution.

While the proposed pledge originally stated that a councilor’s participation on certain social media channels could violate the Massachusetts’ Open Meeting Law statute, a crowded meeting room applauded as council Chairman Tom Mercer suggested a slight amendment to the pledge toward the end of Wednesday’s meeting.

On Wednesday, councilors approved the Civil Discourse Pledge, Resolution 20-14, which was originally drafted by Town Administrator Jaime Hellen and the Town Council. The resolution follows a series of related administrative actions, starting in 2018 with harassment training for all municipal employees, said Hellen in a memorandum dated Feb. 7.

Designed as an aspiration for the town to make everyone in the community feel welcome, the amended resolution was approved, 6-2-1. Councilors Andrew Bissanti and Eamon McCarthy Earls were opposed, and Matt Kelly abstained."
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)

https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200307/civil-discourse-resolution-riles-some-franklin-residents

The audio file for the citizen comments and the civil discourse discussion can be found here  https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/03/fm-218-town-council-citizen-comments.html


"We really want to make sure people do not panic, wash their hands and do the simple things they can do”

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:
"Although nobody in the community has been reported ill with the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, the town is looking to allay any concerns -- and take preventative action -- by wiping its municipal spaces clean.

Town Administrator Jamie Hellen said Franklin has engaged the services of an independent vendor to sanitize the town’s public buildings over this weekend as a precaution.

From the municipal building to the senior center and library, to public spaces of the police and fire departments, officials want to ensure that residents feel confident when they need to stop in at town buildings amidst concerns about COVID-19.

“It feels like a step to take when you can say we have a new baseline,” Hellen said."
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200307/franklin-to-sanitize-public-buildings-over-weekend

The audio of the recent Board of Health meeting can be found here
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/03/fm-216-board-of-health-meeting-march-4.html

Coronavirus Information Portal
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/03/attention-franklin-coronavirus.html 

"We really want to make sure people do not panic, wash their hands and do the simple things they can do”
"We really want to make sure people do not panic, wash their hands and do the simple things they can do”