First positive case of COVID-19 confirmed in Franklin, MA

March 22, 2020

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health notified the Franklin Board of Health today, March 22, 2020, that the Town has a positive COVID-19 case. The patient is in isolation. 

This is a reminder that COVID-19 is highly contagious, and the residents of the town should remain diligent following CDC Guidelines:

● Wash Hands Frequently. Protecting yourself by following public health advice about keeping your hands clean and covering coughs and sneezes.
● Illness. Stay home if you are sick. If you need to consult a healthcare provider, call ahead first or use telehealth services.
● Social Distancing. Protect others who are most at risk of COVID-19 by keeping your distance from people (at least 6 feet away from others), especially those who are older, and people living with chronic health conditions.
● Avoid crowds. If you are outside, avoid crowds. Don’t shake hands or hug.
● Loved ones. Stay connected to friends and loved ones by phone or through other technology. Take care of your emotional health and help others do the same.

If you need emotional support during these stressful times, call 2-1-1 and choose the “CALL2TALK” option.

Residents should continue to follow www.franklinma.gov for all of the latest information locally. Or See Mass.gov or the Center for Disease Control and Prevention for all information pertaining to COVID-19.

Cathleen Liberty, MPH Board of Health
Bridget Sweet, Chair Director of Public Health 

First positive case of COVID-19 confirmed in Franklin, MA

Shared from the Town of Franklin press release
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Y9TeWCfx1g8NzJuFTH0E181yY5Ux557X/view?usp=sharing

FM #227 - Town Administrator Jamie Hellen - COVID-19 updates

FM #227 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 227 in the series.

This session of the radio show was recorded virtually. The three of us connected via conference bridge, and aside from a couple of brief bits of background noise, the conversation recording went very well at this new ‘social distance’.

As you’ll hear, I was joined by Town Administrator Jamie Hellen and Marketing and Communication Specialist Anne Marie Tracey.

Anne Marie provided updates from Superintendent Sara Ahern. Among the updates:

• Distance learning underway
• School grounds closing
• Food service (breakfast and lunch) available for children in Franklin who are not FPS students; pick up at the high school
• More details on school closing and what it means will be coming from the Superintendent
• All communications translated into multiple languages and posted on web page

Jamie was scheduled to get out for a walk later Friday (we recorded at noon time) because he had been so busy this week, he had not been able to do so. He provided multiple updates on:

• Town of Franklin business still being conducted
• Pointing to the portal for updates and details, please check at least daily
• Please follow recommendations to maintain social distancing, washing hands, etc.
• Town Council, School Committee and board/committee meetings going forward - how to conduct them remotely is being worked out
• The budget timeline has been rescheduled; Finance Committee meetings after Memorial Day, Town Council budget hearings in June

There were other topics along the way in this conversation but this should be enough of a teaser to have you spend a few minutes to listen. The audio segment runs about 40 minutes, so please listen in to my conversation with Jamie and Anne Marie   https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/HWHSsjcX



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The Town of Franklin Coronavirus Information Portal https://www.franklinma.gov/home/urgent-alerts/coronavirus-information-portal-updates-here

Link to the Superintendents’ messages in multiple languages
https://www.franklinps.net/district/superintendent/pages/messages-superintendent-regarding-coronavirus

The link to the main Franklin Public schools (FPS) page https://www.franklinps.net/

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 #227 - Town Administrator Jamie Hellen - COVID-19 updates

Franklin, a community that helps all

Franklin, a community that helps all

We just wanted to take a moment to talk about one of the things that makes Franklin such a great place to live, work, and visit. That is our shared sense of community. Helping our families, neighbors, and businesses as we all navigate this difficult time.

We as the Police Department will always be ready to respond to emergencies and crisis. However there are many other things going on that we can't be the answer for, and that's where we need your help.

Please check in on our most vulnerable residents. The sick, the elderly, or those with special needs. Many of our neighbors rely on public transportation to help them get to and from the stores for their everyday needs. Many of those transportation services are shutting down. Reach out, see if on your way out to the store you can pick up some items for them. They may have no other way of getting food, or medicine. Practice safe social distancing especially when communicating and helping out.

Support our local businesses as they too also are seeing a reduction in customers. If you can find what you need, shop locally.

Unfortunately as this pandemic continues we know that many families may suffer financially, and struggle to put food on the table at all. Franklin is fortunate enough to have a wonderful organization in the Franklin Food Pantry. Their mission is to help those in need. This is the definition of what it means to be in a community. However with the expected increase in demand for their services, they need our help too.

The Food Pantry purchases from the Greater Boston Food Bank. This allows them to purchase the items they need at a substantially reduced cost. Donations of physical goods are helpful, but "Cash is King". With money they can purchase and provide for more people than they can on food donations alone.

Donations can be taken online for the Franklin Food Pantry. Please click here to be taken to their donation site  https://www.franklinfoodpantry.org/.

The men and women of the Franklin Police Department will be here for all. Please help us in being there for each other as well.


Thank you

Franklin Food Pantry

Hockomock Area YMCA Responds with Food Collection & Distribution

During this unprecedented public health crisis, the Hockomock Area YMCA is inspired by the efforts of the community to come together to support those in need. These efforts include assembling take home meals and coordinating food drive collections and distribution – all for children, families and individuals in need – supporting the fifteen communities the Hockomock Area YMCA serves.

The Hockomock Area YMCA is working with school nutrition departments and community partners to ensure that children and families have meals while schools remain closed. The Y is collaborating in North Attleboro and Milford to provide take home meals to serve children and families. In just four days more than 2,200 grab and go meals were distributed. No advanced paperwork or signup is required. 

The Hockomock Y is also coordinating food drive collections. “Our Y will continue to be a force of good in these difficult times,” says Ed Hurley, president of the Hockomock Area YMCA. “We encourage those who are able to provide contributions of non-perishable foods to do so at any of our Hockomock Area YMCA branches.” 

Donation boxes are located outside of the Y’s branches in Foxboro, Franklin, and North Attleboro every weekday between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. for non-perishable food items. Through these food collections, beginning next week the Hockomock Y will be distributing a family-size food bag at its branches in Foxboro, North Attleboro, and Franklin. 

Details and schedules are available on the Y’s website at www.hockymca.org and will be updated daily. Hurley acknowledged the many local businesses and organizations who have already joined in these efforts. Said Hurley, “CVS Health, Stop & Shop, the United Way of Massachusetts Bay and the Captain Kyle Van De Giesen Award fund have stepped up with generous financial contributions in this time of need.”

“Challenging times often brings out the best in people. Please know that our Y is committed to being there for our members, our staff and our community,” adds Hurley.

Additional information on these food distribution and collection efforts in the community, as well as suggested donation items, are available at hockymca.org.

If you are interested in providing monetary donations, please contact Katie Moore at katiem@hockymca.org or 508-643-5265.

About Hockomock Area YMCA:

Where Cause Meets Community. At the Hockomock Area YMCA, strengthening community is our cause. The Hockomock Area YMCA is an organization of men, women, and children sharing a commitment to nurture the potential of kids, promote healthy living, and foster a sense of social responsibility.

Our YMCA is committed to partnering and collaborating with others to create and deliver lasting personal and social change in the 15 communities we are privileged to serve. The Hockomock Area YMCA is a not-for-profit charitable cause-driven organization with facilities in North Attleboro, Foxboro, Franklin, and Mansfield. For more information visit hockymca.org.

Hockomock Area YMCA Responds with Food Collection & Distribution

State Rep Jeff Roy: Update #4 on COVID-19

COVID-19 update #4

I continue share your concerns about the spread of the Corona virus (COVID-19) and am providing these updates regularly to keep you informed. New information is coming out regularly and in great volume. To keep the information timely and manageable, I will post only new information in these update emails and ask you to visit https://jeffreyroy.com/covid-19-updates/ for a compilation of all of the updates. That site will be updated frequently to keep you up to speed on the latest developments. 

Here are the updates since my last email:

• Current cases. In Massachusetts, there are a total of 413 cases of COVID-19, out of the 4,091 individuals that have been tested. For complete details, click here (https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-cases-quarantine-and-monitoring). The state's capacity to test has been expanded so we expect that number to rise as more people get tested.

• Testing ramping up. Massachusetts has a goal of conducting a minimum of 3,500 coronavirus tests each day and is on track to get to that level through an enormous increase in testing capacity by early next week (March 22-28). Quest Diagnostics in Marlborough is ramping up labs to be able to test 20,000 people per day across the country. CEO Steve Rusckowski said the company hopes to eventually be able to test 2,000 to 3,000 people a day in Massachusetts. Health and Human Services Secretary Marylou Sudders said that, using South Korea as a model, Massachusetts needs to be testing 3,500 people each day at a minimum. Massachusetts officials confirmed the state's first positive COVID-19 case on Feb. 1.

• Unemployment town hall Sunday, March 22 at 3:30 p.m. To help with the increased demand on the unemployment system and the increased volume or your constituent service staff, the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development and the Department of Unemployment Assistance will be hosting virtual town hall meetings. We will take all who sign up through a step by step process of achieving a successful unemployment claim. We will also be taking questions from claimants across the Commonwealth. The first virtual town hall will be held this Sunday, March 22nd, at 3:30pm. Sign up information for the virtual town hall is available by clicking here (https://www.mass.gov/forms/massachusetts-department-of-unemployment-assistance-dua-virtual-town-halls). To further help claimants through the process of applying for benefits, DUA has made specific web page updates that include the latest guidance for employee qualifications and additional resources like contact forms and a COVID-19 specific unemployment claim handbook that can be viewed by clicking here (https://www.mass.gov/resource/information-on-unemployment-and-coronavirus-covid-19).

The newsletters was shortened for publication here, to review the full contents:
https://us6.campaign-archive.com/?u=a03272e278ec395d5f164106a&id=e821dd5fdd

State Rep Jeff Roy's COVID-19 page  https://jeffreyroy.com/covid-19-updates/

State Rep Jeff Roy: Update #4 on COVID-19

ArtWeek 2020 - canceled

"We assumed this might happen, but are very disappointed to cancel the 40 programs we were bringing to the community this May. 

When the time is right, we will regroup and find a way to bring these to Franklin! Thank you to all that participated in submitting proposals and had begun planning. We'll bounce back from this even stronger!"

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

"Dear ArtWeek Community,

With regret that is beyond words, we are announcing the cancellation of ArtWeek 2020, our award-winning community program. We had originally hoped that a different version of the festival might be possible as we continually reassessed the circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak, but the ever-increasing bad news in terms of the virus and its effects, added to the increasing government restrictions on public gatherings, have led us to follow the lead of national, state, and local authorities and make this extremely difficult decision.

We realize that this is very disappointing, but we also know that many of our event hosts, partners, and sponsors are also facing similar critical decisions. Ultimately, what is most important is that you, your communities, and everyone you interact with remain safe and well, so we feel that this is the right decision to make at this time.

We have also been deeply inspired by the sense of community and creative sharing across various platforms during this time and hope that you are taking advantage of the many creative ideas that are being offered from virtual tours, online classes and activities, and the brilliant “creative acts of kindness” that are popping up everywhere.

At the same time, we know many nonprofits and creative communities are deeply suffering and urge everyone to show support however you can by making a donation or an online purchase, getting a gift certificate, or simply staying in touch to offer support. We are all in this together, and every positive action makes a big difference towards supporting a longer-term resiliency.

Sincerely,

The ArtWeek Team
artweek@bochcenter.org"

Shared from the Franklin Cultural Council Facebook update
https://www.facebook.com/FranklinCulturalCouncil/photos/a.399579373729229/1110981599255666/?

ArtWeek 2020 - canceled

Internal Revenue Service - federal income tax filing date now July 15, 2020

The Treasury Department and Internal Revenue Service announced today that the federal income tax filing due date is automatically extended from April 15, 2020, to July 15, 2020.

Taxpayers can also defer federal income tax payments due on April 15, 2020, to July 15, 2020, without penalties and interest, regardless of the amount owed. This deferment applies to all taxpayers, including individuals, trusts and estates, corporations and other non-corporate tax filers as well as those who pay self-employment tax.

Taxpayers do not need to file any additional forms or call the IRS to qualify for this automatic federal tax filing and payment relief. Individual taxpayers who need additional time to file beyond the July 15 deadline, can request a filing extension by filing Form 4868 through their tax professional, tax software or using the Free File link on IRS.gov. Businesses who need additional time must file Form 7004.

The IRS urges taxpayers who are due a refund to file as soon as possible. Most tax refunds are still being issued within 21 days.

“Even with the filing deadline extended, we urge taxpayers who are owed refunds to file as soon as possible and file electronically,” said IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig. “Filing electronically with direct deposit is the quickest way to get refunds. Although we are curtailing some operations during this period, the IRS is continuing with mission-critical operations to support the nation, and that includes accepting tax returns and sending refunds. As a federal agency vital to the overall operations of our country, we ask for your personal support, your understanding – and your patience. I’m incredibly proud of our employees as we navigate through numerous different challenges in this very rapidly changing environment.”

The IRS will continue to monitor issues related to the COVID-19 virus, and updated information will be posted on a special coronavirus page on IRS.gov (https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus).

This announcement comes following the President’s emergency declaration last week pursuant to the Stafford Act. The Stafford Act is a federal law designed to bring an orderly and systematic means of federal natural disaster and emergency assistance for state and local governments in carrying out their responsibilities to aid citizens. It was enacted in 1988.

Treasury and IRS will issue additional guidance as needed and continue working with Congress, on a bipartisan basis, on legislation to provide further relief to the American people.

This was shared from the IRS page
https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-day-now-july-15-treasury-irs-extend-filing-deadline-and-federal-tax-payments-regardless-of-amount-owed 


Related posts on IRS:

It's that time again
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/01/its-that-time-again-irs-has-started.html

Tax time Guide
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/03/tax-time-guide-millions-make-irsgov.html

Internal Revenue Service - federal income tax filing date now July 15, 2020

Franklin Public Schools: student art works featured in digital "Youth Art Month"

"Youth Art Month at Worcester Art Museum goes digital! FPS has over 15 pieces in this show. Enjoy the video linked below."

Shared from the Tweet:
https://twitter.com/FranklinPSart/status/1241083575342153734

Video link:   https://youtu.be/gcIaPTKL2c0

"The Worcester Art Museum is pleased to present the 2020 Central MA Regional Youth Art Month Exhibit. Youth Art Month is a national celebration endorsed by Council for Art Education, the National Art Education Association, and the Massachusetts Art Education Association, and is proudly hosted by the Worcester Art Museum.

This annual celebration emphasizes the value of art education for all children and encourages support for quality art programs in public and private schools. This special digital video of the exhibit features each of the 461 artworks from Massachusetts students in grades K-12 that were put on display in the Higgins Education Wing of the Worcester Art Museum .

We would like to recognize the efforts of the wonderful young artists and the dedication that their teachers show in annually volunteering their time to coordinate this exhibition. The theme for 2020 was Take a Journey through Art, and I invite you to do just that through this video. The Museum’s Pick Winners, normally announced at the Exhibition Celebration, will be announced via the Worcester Art Museum’s Facebook page on March 22nd."

Please enjoy. https://www.worcesterart.org/

MA Small Business Development Center Network: Prepare For Recovery

While focused on the small business owner, the advice can apply more broadly


PREPARE FOR RECOVERY
By Cliff Robbins, MSBDC Senior Business Advisor

"NOW what do I do?" This is the question on every small business persons' mind. Well, this is the time to prepare yourself for a post-coronavirus world: Especially because you have probably been forced to shutter or otherwise change your business approach.

1) CFIMITYM - Cash Flow Is More Important Than Your Mother.
Conserve your cash. Act like you're in a turnaround crisis because you probably are [too]. If you haven't done so already, project your cash needs out for the next twelve months. (We can help with that.) Go to MSBDC.org/SEMass and contact an advisor.

2) COMMUNICATE
Talk to your customers; communicate with your bank; invest in your social media; let them know that you're still around; keep them engaged. Try selling gift certificates. This is a great time to try that for future business. Send them emails to let them know you're still here and OKAY!

3) CREATE
Most small business people don't continually create content because they say they just don't have the time. Well, now your schedule is a little more open today, so create some content. Create educational content about your products and services; create instructional videos; create stories that you can share in the near future to tell the world how great your business has been and still is!

4) ADVERTISE YOUR LOCAL SERVICES
If you work at people's homes, particularly for services like landscaping, or other home improvement services that are low-touch, get the word out that you're available. If people aren't ready today, the nicer weather will catch up with them quickly once this all starts to sort itself out.

5) PREPARE AND INVEST - Now's the time to get a leg up on the competition:

• Get that new website started, it's going to take a little time to get going, and this downtime will help you modernize.
• Optimize your business for local search, it takes a few weeks for optimizations to happen, so get the leg up once people are ready to leave the house again.
• Sort out the back-end of your business: Your CRM, your customer databases, your online store. Make sure these are all up and running so that you are prepared for the future.

"This too shall pass."

Look at this period as an opportunity to get ahead, and stay focused on growth.

The region sure needs it!

Shared from the Southeast Regional Office MSBDC
http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?m=1101853174121&ca=27eb69bc-325e-4f7e-beee-d0a98b2711f6

MA Small Business Development Center Network: Prepare For Recovery

Franklin Public Schools Update from the Superintendent 3/20/2020

Please see this video update from Superintendent Sara Ahern - 3/20/2020

Video link -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P9TgNtOaHbw




And the referenced video she mentions: https://vimeo.com/398230086?fbclid=IwAR3cvK731SQDtKZLL9KOtocJZS9K69sq-fl2atDuFRVEWwDEXqVaqB9FQAY



Thank you,
Franklin Public Schools

Superintendent Sara Ahern at the demographic study info session at HMMS March 5

Franklin Public Library Closure Updates

Franklin Public Library Closure Updates

Dear Franklin Community,

Thank you for your enthusiastic response to curbside pickups! Unfortunately, that service has come to an end. Thankfully, the Library still has much more to offer! 

Here are updates and information regarding the Library's services during this closure:

• The Franklin Library will be closed until April 7th.
• Our digital library is still open! Explore our collection of audiobooks, ebooks, and more at https://minuteman.overdrive.com/ . On your phone or tablet, download the Libby and Minuteman Library Network apps!
• Try out Kanopy, hoopla, Creativebug, and Universal Class on the Featured Databases page https://www.franklinma.gov/franklin-public-library/pages/featured-databases (exclusively available to Franklin residents).
• Learn something new, read newspapers from across the globe, or pick up a new skill using the links on our Databases & Research Resources page. https://www.franklinma.gov/franklin-public-library/pages/databases-research-resources
• Tune in to our Facebook page for streaming storytimes, book discussions, and other live programs.
• Email reference service will remain available. Send questions to frkill@minlib.net . Questions will be answered within 24 hours.
• Please hold on to your checked out items! Due dates have been extended to April 30.
• No donations will be accepted at this time.
• The ability to place holds on physical items has been suspended.

Updates through email, our website, and social media will be provided as they become available.

Library 
Facebook page  https://www.facebook.com/FranklinPublicLibrary/
Twitter account  https://twitter.com/FrkPublicLib

Shared from the Library update notification
https://www.franklinma.gov/franklin-public-library/news/franklin-public-library-closure-updates

No book or bag sale this weekend due to the pandemic closure

Franklin Residents: NOTICE - Town &; Public Schools grounds closed

URGENT NOTICE!

All Town &; Public Schools grounds, playgrounds, turf fields, grass fields, and the track are closed until further notice. 

Trails are still open. 

Please practice social distancing and avoid groups.


Note: This adds the school playgrounds and fields to the Town closure notice shared earlier
Town: https://www.franklinma.gov/home/news/all-municipal-recreation-facilities-are-closed-until-further-notice
Schools: https://twitter.com/FranklinPSNews/status/1241012389996265480
https://twitter.com/FranklinPSNews/status/1241012389996265480?s=20

Franklin Residents: NOTICE - Town &; Public Schools grounds closed

MBTA Commuter Rail: Reminder - Franklin line shuttle bus for weekend schedule

"We’ve made system-wide service changes to accommodate for decreased ridership and to protect our frontline employees while still enabling travel for essential workers, like hospital staff and emergency responders. 

During the week, all subway lines and most bus routes are running on a Saturday schedule, and all Commuter Rail lines are on reduced service. Regular schedules for these modes are still in effect on weekends. Ferry service has been suspended entirely. 

We value your feedback and are monitoring the effects of these service reductions closely. We will adjust service accordingly as the situation changes.
For the most up-to-date information, and to learn more about our response to COVID-19, visit mbta.com/coronavirus 

During reduced service, our crews will continue to work on infrastructure repairs and upgrades throughout the system. This weekend, shuttles will replace trains on the Red and Green lines, and on the Green and Mattapan lines on weeknights.

Work will continue on the Commuter Rail as well. Starting Saturday morning, there will be shuttles on the Framingham/Worcester, Franklin, and Lowell lines, and the Fitchburg Line will start and end at Porter. 

This work supports a number of projects as part of our $8 billion, 5-year capital investment program. 

See how we are making the MBTA better for you  https://www.mbta.com/projects?utm_source=email_digest"

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South Station – Forge Park/495
Weekends through April 2020

Shuttle buses will replace Franklin Line service between Forge Park/495 and Readville Stations while we upgrade the signal system as part of Positive Train Control (PTC) work. Also during this work, connecting train service between Readville and South Station will be on the Fairmount Line. There will be no Franklin Line service at Ruggles or Back Bay.

Learn about Positive Train Control  https://www.mbta.com/projects/commuter-rail-positive-train-control-ptc
See all Franklin Line service changes  https://www.mbta.com/diversions/franklin-line

MBTA Commuter Rail: Reminder - Franklin line shuttle bus for weekend schedule

Senator Rausch: COVID-19 Update #5

CORONAVIRUS / COVID-19 UPDATE #5                      Friday, March 20, 2020


"Friends,

What a week! Below you'll find further developments on the COVID-19 situation. Going forward, I plan to issue these updates on Tuesdays and Fridays. Please continue to contact my office if you need assistance or guidance in finding state resources. In addition, please remember my staff and I are publishing the latest information on the Commonwealth's response to COVID-19 on my website.

Many of the towns I represent have upcoming elections. Yesterday, the Senate President announced that we will take up a local option bill to allow towns to delay their elections. I believe we'll be doing that on Monday, and I will be at the Senate session personally. Voting access is one of my top issues. I filed a bill at the beginning of this legislative session to provide no-fault absentee voting, which would be a solution to the current problem, as would vote-by-mail. I've been having many conversations about how to hold safe and accessible elections during the pandemic period and will continue to work with my Senate colleagues to get it done, even if it happens in multiple legislative efforts.

On a positive note, we got some excellent news regarding our testing capacity. Starting on Saturday, Marlborough's Quest Diagnostics will be able to test 20,000 people per day across the country. Looking forward, the facility hopes to be able to test 2,000 to 3,000 samples per day from Massachusetts patients, which will significantly increase our capacity.

Another positive -- people have been deeply engaged in the legislative process for the municipalities bill! Thank you to everyone who provided testimony on H.4572, An Act to address challenges in town governance resulting from COVID-19. My co-chair, Representative Jim O'Day, and I received roughly 150 comments from across the Commonwealth. With the help of our tremendous staffs, we reviewed the testimony and are hard at work to get the best possible bill out of committee and to the floors of the House and Senate. Keeping our town governments functioning is vital to our democracy, so we've "fast-tracked" this bill; stay tuned for movement on that early next week.

Please remember that while my office is working remotely, we are here to help you! Please call (617) 722-1555 or email me at Becca.Rausch@masenate.gov if you have questions, comments or concerns.

Yours in service,"


This newsletter was shortened for publication here
https://mailchi.mp/5852da3f396b/covid19-update-12269366?e=0c2c9810fe

Senator Rausch: COVID-19 Update #5

Franklin, MA: School Committee - March 24 - FY 21 budget hearing postponed; meeting canceled

The Franklin School Committee's FY 21 Budget Hearing, originally scheduled for March 24, will be postponed to a later date.

The Franklin School Committee's Regular School Committee meeting, scheduled for March 24, is canceled.

 

Franklin, MA: School Committee - March 24 - FY 21 budget hearing postponed; meeting canceled

Friendly Reminder from the SUBWAY on East Central St

A friendly reminder from the SUBWAY on East Central St.

"We are open for take out and delivery for all Franklin and surrounding community from 10 AM to 7 PM everyday until further notice"

Address: 252 East Central St, Franklin, MA 02038 - (508) 520-3400

Friendly Reminder from SUBWAY

https://www.subway.com/en-US/FindAStore

FIORI: We now sell eGift Cards!

Give the gift of FIORI with a special eGift Card!

Place your order online  https://squareup.com/gift/QE9A48RJBYEZ5/order?

FIORI: We now sell eGift Cards!

FIORI
305 Union Street, Franklin, MA, 02038

In the News: funeral masses suspended by Archdiocese of Boston; some stores close, others remain open

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

"Funeral Masses and other forms of church funeral services will be suspended starting on Monday, the Archdiocese of Boston announced on its website Thursday.

The archdiocese’s Office of Risk Management recommends that “the bereaved be offered the opportunity for a graveside committal service during this time and a memorial Mass when we are able again to offer the celebration of Mass and religious services at our parishes and churches.”

This is the latest in a series of steps local Roman Catholic officials have taken in an effort to to halt the spread of the coronavirus."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200320/boston-archdiocese-to-halt-funerals-starting-monday-because-of-coronavirus

"As normal everyday life grinds to a halt amid the coronavirus pandemic, some of the nation’s biggest retailers have temporarily closed thousands of stores to help stem the spread of the virus.

Simon Property Group, the largest owner of shopping malls in the nation, closed all of its properties on Wednesday. Westfield and Taubman malls followed with U.S. closures on Thursday.

Not everyone is deserting their posts. Grocery stores, gas stations and pharmacies are keeping their doors open to help people stay stocked with essentials, though many are shortening store hours to clean and restock. Walmart, the world’s largest brick-and-mortar retailer, shortened hours beginning Thursday, for the second time in less than a week.

Those stores are joined by office supply and home improvement chains which say they, too, provide essentials. Among the justifications: they provide products people – including first responders – need in a natural disaster. Others say they sell supplies that people need to work and school their children from home."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200320/coronavirus-has-led-many-stores-to-close-why-gamestop-bed-bath-amp-beyond-lowes-cvs-others-are-still-open

"to better enable customers to practice social distancing"

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

"Hours and days for early shopping vary depending on the individual store. Shaw’s, Big Y and Price Chopper are providing them every day of the week from 6-7 a.m., while Market Basket is offering them from 5:30-7 a.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Hannaford offers them from 6-7 a.m. on those three days.

Grocery chains throughout the region, including Market Basket, Price Chopper, Hannaford, Shaw’s and Big Y, have begun to offer early shopping hours for seniors to help protect them from both coronavirus exposure and the increasing difficulty of securing high-demand products.

Customers aged 60 and over will have first access to food and supplies in the store, with younger patrons asked to come later.

Older people are most at risk of health complications and death from coronavirus, and are encouraged to minimize contact with potential carriers of the virus, according to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200320/area-grocery-chains-carve-out-morning-hours-for-shoppers-60-and-older

Big Y - Franklin, MA

Winter Farmers Market - Mar 21 - Cancelled

"Unfortunately due to the current circumstances, this Saturday’s (March 21) winter market is cancelled

Hope to see everyone in April!"

Fairmount Fruit Farm is open for business. Check out their Facebook page for specific updates  https://www.facebook.com/fairmountfruitfarm/

Winter Farmers Market - Mar 21 - Cancelled

FHS' LaPuma, Titmuss, Wu, Eck, Gurge recognized by Hockomock League for Boys Swimming All Stars

Below are the FHS selections from the official the official 2020 Hockomock League Boys Swimming All Stars, selected by the coaches in the league and published by HockomockSports.com.


Hockomock League MVP
Timothy Luc, Taunton

Hockomock League All Stars
Brendan LaPuma, Franklin
Bleddyn Titmuss, Franklin
James Wu, Franklin
Connor Eck, Franklin

Honorable Mentions
Daniel Gurge, Franklin


You can read the full listing of Boys Swimming All Stars
https://hockomocksports.com/2020-hockomock-league-boys-swimming-all-stars/

FHS' LaPuma, Titmuss, Wu, Eck, Gurge recognized by Hockomock League for Boys Swimming All Stars

FHS' Tang, LaPluma, Chew, McGuire, Wainwright recognized by Hockomock League for Girls Swimming All Stars

Below are the FHS selections from the official 2020 Hockomock League Girls Swimming All Stars, selected by the coaches in the league and published by HockomockSports.com.

Hockomock League MVP
Morgan Foltz, Oliver Ames

Hockomock League All Stars
Elizabeth Tang, Franklin
Alyssa LaPluma, Franklin
Katherine Chew, Franklin
Kathryn McGuire, Franklin

Honorable Mentions
Maia Wainwright, Franklin

You can read the full listing of Girls Swimming All Stars
https://hockomocksports.com/2020-hockomock-league-girls-swimming-all-stars/

FHS' Tang, LaPluma, Chew, McGuire, Wainwright recognized by Hockomock League for Girls Swimming All Stars

FHS' Brogan, Calitri, Harrington recognized by Hockomock League as Boys Indoor Track All Stars

The official 2020 Hockomock League Boys Indoor Track All Stars, selected by the coaches in the league was published by HockomockSports.com. The FHS selections are shared here:
.
Hockomock League MVP
David Peters, Stoughton

Hockomock League All Stars
Nick Calitri, Franklin
Tyler Brogan, Franklin

Honorable Mentions
Camden Harrington, Franklin


You can read the full listing of  Boys Indoor Track All Stars
https://hockomocksports.com/2020-hockomock-league-boys-indoor-track-all-stars/

FHS' Brogan, Calitri, Harrington recognized by Hockomock League as Boys Indoor Track All Stars

 

Lifelong Learning UPDATE: Covid-19 Impact

A Note To Our Lifelong Learning Friends

As the coronavirus (COVID–19) continues to unfold and impact our communities, we're committed to doing what's best for our Lifelong Learning neighbors. Though Franklin Schools and Lifelong Learning are temporarily closed, please be assured our classes will resume once the schools reopen to the community.

During this uncertain time you can continue to find information about our future class activities at www.FranklinLifelongLearning.com, and we hope that can bring you a little distraction and some fun.

If you haven't already taken a look at our Online Learning options, perhaps you would like to check them out now. There may be a course or a series that interests you and/or captures your imagination. Choose the Online Learning picture from the Lifelong Learning home page.


As things evolve, we will make sure you are informed. Stay safe, stay connected, and together we will get through this.


Helpful coronavirus Update Links:

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

Commonwealth of Massachusetts
https://www.mass.gov/resource/information-on-the-outbreak-of-coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19

Lifelong Learning UPDATE: Covid-19 Impact

 

A COVID-19 Update from SSA Commissioner

A COVID-19 Update from the 

Social Security Administration (SSA) Commissioner

03/19/2020 11:22 AM EDT

I want you to hear directly from me how the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting our services. The first thing you should know is that we continue to pay benefits. Be aware that scammers may try to trick you into thinking the pandemic is stopping your Social Security payments but that is not true. Don’t be fooled.

To protect you and help stop the spread of this coronavirus, we cannot accept visitors in our offices at this time. There are several other ways you can get help. Many services are available online. If you have a critical need that you cannot address online, we can help you over the phone.

Please visit our Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) page to find out what services we are continuing and which ones we are suspending, how to contact us, and important information about deadlines we are extending to ease the burden on you and medical providers during this pandemic.

Continue reading the update
https://blog.ssa.gov/a-covid-19-update-from-our-commissioner/#more-4658

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update page  https://www.ssa.gov/coronavirus/

Andrew Saul, SSA Commissioner  (SSA Photo)