Tuesday, May 19, 2020

Town of Franklin: Job Opportunities = Water-Sewer Superintendent; DPW heavy equip operator; firefighter-paramedic


Job Opportunities

To apply for a vacant position, please submit a resume and cover letter to apply@franklinma.gov.  Please put the job title in the subject line of your email.  
  • Water & Sewer Superintendent - Department of Public Works
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/uploads/water-sewer-superintendent-jobposting-may2020.pdf
  • Heavy Motor Equipment Operator - Department of Public Works
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/uploads/hmeo-external-posting-may182020.pdf
  • Firefighter/Paramedics - The Town of Franklin's Fire Department is in the Massachusetts Civil Service system. 
    • If you are currently a Firefighter/Paramedic in a Civil Service community and are interested in working for Franklin, send a resume and cover letter to apply@franklinma.gov
    • Please note: new hires must have and maintain a paramedic certification and complete an Associate's Degree within 5 years of the date they are hired.   
If you do not have a resume, you may send a completed Application for Employment instead.

To receive notifications of all job opportunities in the Town of Franklin, subscribe here (https://www.franklinma.gov/subscribe) .
Town of Franklin: Job Opportunities = Water-Sewer Superintendent; DPW heavy equip operator; firefighter-paramedic
Town of Franklin: Job Opportunities = Water-Sewer Superintendent; DPW heavy equip operator; firefighter-paramedic

Downtown Franklin Springing to Life with Flowers

On May 15, downtown Franklin sprung to life with colorful plants added to barrels, planters and window boxes. The Franklin Downtown Partnership (FDP) and the Franklin Garden Club organized the planting of pink, blue and white flowers to beautify the community.

“This year we held a Covid-19 appropriate beautification effort in the downtown area,” said lead organizer Eileen Mason. “We had designated families or residents be responsible for certain locations. Everyone wore masks outside their family units and we maintained the appropriate distancing. We only requested adult volunteers this year in order to keep us all safe.”

Roberta Trahan, vice president of the FDP, said this project is especially meaningful during this time of social distancing. 

“The planting of flowers and beautification efforts give us hope that life goes on,” Trahan said. “It is a visual reminder to our community that we will get through this. Seeing the flowers brings some joy and growth into this difficult time in our lives.”

Thank you to the following sponsors provided financial assistance to make the beautification efforts possible:
  • PLATINUM-Dean Bank, Fenton Financial Group, Glen Meadow Apartments, and Middlesex Savings Bank
  • GOLD-D.G. Ranieri Real Estate, Eileen Mason of RE/MAX Executive Realty, Kelly’s Landscaping Inc., and The Enclave of Franklin
  • SILVER-Chestnut Dental Associates, Keefe Insurance, Oteri and Son Funeral Home, and Vet Med Pet Supplies
  • BRONZE-Berry Insurance and Roche & Roche Law Offices
“Thank you to all who helped pull the beautification effort together this year,” Mason said. “Special thanks to Fairmont Farms for the flowers, the Department of Public Works for helping with watering and mulching and to Melanie Hamblen, owner of Franklin Agway, for donating potting soil and distributing it to all of the containers.”

Special thanks to Vicario Studio for providing these photos.

Downtown Franklin Springing to Life with Flowers
Downtown Franklin Springing to Life with Flowers



New Encore EnHarmonix CD available to order

NEW Encore EnHarmonix Album Available Now! Encore Music Academy and Recording Studios' recording ensemble, the Encore EnHarmonix have released their fourth album, STARS, available now for purchase!

YouTube link = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qo60wi8LFDs



All proceeds from the sale of this album go directly to The Encore Music Education Foundation, Inc., a not-for-profit, 501[c][3] organization dedicated to providing scholarships and financial aid to music students and programs. 

To order this seventeen-song movie soundtrack album featuring children ages 8 to 18, please call (508) 533-7700 or email: info@wesupportmusic.org and include the phone number where you can be reached. 

Thank you for your support!

School Committee Community Relations Sub Committee Meeting - 5/20/20

Community Relations Sub Committee Meeting

Virtual Meeting (Links in agenda)


Agenda

  • Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes (March 5, 2020)
  • Follow up on community outreach since last meeting
    • Cultural District Collaboration - Postponed
    • “Meet School Committee” - potentially virtually vs. at the library?
  • Community Relations Newsletter - Smore versus Constant Contact
    • Include highlight what we do for kids at all levels
    • Info sheet with budget materials
    • Coronavirus preparedness?


Read more:

Franklin Food Pantry Annual Appeal: You can help the Food Pantry help Rose!

We began planning for our annual appeal before the COVID-19 crisis began. While we are still happy to be able to share Rose’s story with you, we now know that it is even more important than ever that the Pantry keep its doors open and service everyone who has been impacted by this global crisis.

Please read more about Rose’s experience and learn how you can help her and everyone who needs the Pantry.

When Rose graciously invited us into her home to share a cup of tea and her experience at the Pantry, we weren’t expecting to feel such happiness and pride. It is such an honor to be a part of an organization that helps to create and facilitate community and acceptance from the moment one walks through our doors! You help make that happen.

Rose has lived a full life. She has contributed so much to the world and is now at a point where her life circumstance will not change. We know that with a 13% increase in the number of seniors who came to the Pantry last year, our presence makes their life a little easier. Rising medical costs, living on a fixed income, and daily expenses add up. The Pantry helps to alleviate financial stress by providing a place for our neighbors to receive fresh food on a regular basis – all while also providing a sense of community support.

Your donation is critical for the Pantry to continue to provide food, personal care items, and a physical location for our neighbors in need. The Pantry is so much more than a place to get food. We receive no state or town funding and we rely on the generosity of people like you to help to foster this community and continue to make lives better for families, veterans, and seniors – our friends and neighbors. People like Rose.

You can help us make sure that our shelves are always stocked – no matter what time of the year – and that everyone in Franklin has access to healthy food. A gift of any amount makes a difference and you will be supporting your neighbors right here in Franklin.

Suzanne Gendreau                  Lynn Calling
Board Member                          Executive Director
Franklin Food Pantry                Franklin Food Pantry
Fundraising Chair

P.S. – Rose shared that she has recommended the Pantry to friends and has brought in additional people needing help. She knew that the Pantry employees and volunteers would treat her friends with dignity and respect.

P.S.S. You may have seen the exciting news that the Pantry has purchased a new building in Franklin to expand our offerings and better serve our neighbors. While we will need to launch a capital campaign our annual appeal is strictly for operation spending. Thank you!

The Franklin Food Pantry is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization FEIN #04-3272663
https://www.franklinfoodpantry.org/

Find the full flyer content with Rose's story in the PDF
https://drive.google.com/file/d/19TLue7Zl2KrTR733CjK2olCosncRiicD/view?usp=sharing

Donate to the Franklin Food Pantry here
Donate to the Franklin Food Pantry here




Let’s Laugh Today Laughter Club is Free EVERY Wednesday at 7:30 PM on ZOOM!

Let’s Laugh Today Laughter Club is on ZOOM! In these challenging times, there is nothing like a good belly laugh to help release stress and anxiety. These laughter exercises and deep breathing help to bring more fresh oxygen into the body and brain helping you feel more energetic and healthy. 

It's a great way to connect with other people through eye contact while remaining socially distant and it is thoroughly up-lifting and immunity-boosting! 

See www.letslaughtoday.com for link to the free ZOOM Meeting EVERY Wednesday at 7:30 PM. All ages are welcome. 

You can sit or stand the entire time. It’s a good time to try something new! Led by Certified Laughter Yoga Master Trainers, Bill and Linda Hamaker.

Let’s Laugh Today Laughter Club is Free EVERY Wednesday at 7:30 PM on ZOOM!
Let’s Laugh Today Laughter Club is Free EVERY Wednesday at 7:30 PM on ZOOM!

Town of Franklin: Reopening resources

A new section has been added to our Coronavirus Information Portal: REOPENING RESOURCES

We will continue to keep it updated as information becomes available. Find Governor Baker's Reopening Massachusetts Report and more here:  https://www.franklinma.gov/home/pages/reopening-resources

Town of Franklin: Reopening resources
Town of Franklin: Reopening resources


Shared from the Town of Franklin Twitter:
https://twitter.com/TOFranklinMA/status/1262418025875230732?s=09




FTC Consumer Alerts: Credit reports are now free, every week




Consumer Alerts from the Federal Trade Commission
by Cathlin Tully - Attorney, Division of Privacy and Identity Protection

If you're feeling anxious about your financial health during these uncertain times, you're not alone. That's why the three national credit reporting agencies are giving people weekly access to monitor their credit report — for free.

Read more
https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2020/05/credit-reports-are-now-free-every-week?

This is a free service provided by the Federal Trade Commission.


https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/coronavirus/financial-impact
https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/coronavirus/financial-impact

Monday, May 18, 2020

Reopening Plan in 4 Phases with more details

The Reopening Plan:
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1m5wKuIWap_ehNv9Hk-W73mvAMiRTDwCC

Or directly from the MA.gov page
https://www.mass.gov/doc/reopening-massachusetts-may-18-2020/download




Gov Baker YouTube link = https://youtu.be/VrnY_dON330?t=303


Gov Baker provides update on reopening plan
Gov Baker provides update on reopening plan

Safer-at-Home Advisory (Stay-At-Home updated)


Phase 1

  • People over the age of 65 and people who have underlying health conditions – who are at high risk for COVID-19 – should continue to stay home except for essential errands such as going to the grocery store and to attend to healthcare needs
  • All residents are advised to leave home only for healthcare, worship and permitted work, shopping, and outdoor activities
  • When going to the pharmacy ask if you can fill your prescriptions for 90 days if possible; for some medications this is not allowed. If you are at high-risk, try to use a mail-order service
  • Don’t participate in close contact activities such as pick-up sports games
  • All residents are REQUIRED to cover their face when they cannot maintain six feet of social distance in public
  • Parents should limit play dates for children
  • Refrain from visiting nursing homes, skilled nursing facilities, or other residential care settings
  • All residents are advised to wash their hands frequently for at least 20 seconds with soapy water
  • All residents are advised to be vigilant, monitor for symptoms and stay home if you feel sick
  • Use remote modes of communication like phone or video chat instead of visiting friends or family who are high risk for COVID-19
Shared from https://www.mass.gov/news/safer-at-home-advisory

Links to what was shared earlier on the report, etc.
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/05/gov-baker-update-on-reopening-ma-51820.html

Safer-at-Home Advisory (Stay-At-Home updated)
Safer-at-Home Advisory (Stay-At-Home updated)

Gov Baker update on Reopening MA 5/18/20


The Reopening Mass page
https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-updates-and-information#reopening-massachusetts-

Download the Report  https://www.mass.gov/doc/reopening-massachusetts-may-18-2020/download

Safer at Home Advisory  https://www.mass.gov/news/safer-at-home-advisory

Gov Baker YouTube link = https://youtu.be/VrnY_dON330?t=303




Department Spotlight: Building & Inspections


"Another Spotlight is here!  Learn more about the functions of our Building & Inspections Department and how remote operations are currently operating in town."
https://sites.google.com/franklinps.net/building-inspections/home
Shared from the Town of Franklin tweet
https://twitter.com/TOFranklinMA/status/1261289481698762752?s=03

Department Spotlight: Building & Inspections
Department Spotlight: Building and Inspections

Beaver St Recycling Center Opens Full Service Starting Tuesday, May 19

"Recycling Center Opens Full Service Starting Tuesday, May 19. All materials with associated costs must be prepaid via Viewpoint payment portal."

Beginning Tuesday, May 19, the Recycling Center will be open regular hours for full services. No cash or checks will be accepted.
  • All residents who wish to use the recycling center for item drop off will need to go online prior to pay the required fee(s).
  • The online payment portal for recycling fees is on our Viewpoint site (https://franklinma.viewpointcloud.com/categories/1078). If you do not have a Viewpoint account, follow the instructions to set it one up.
  • A printed slip detailing the fees paid will be required to show proof of payment at the Recycling Center.
  • No material that includes a fee will be accepted at the Recycling Center without prior payment online with printed receipt.
  • Please observe social distancing guidelines

For additional information please call 508-553-5500 and leave a message and someone will promptly call you back.

Attached is a copy of materials accepted, fees and hours at the Recycling Center and Curbside costs.
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/news/beaver_st_annual_sticker_fy20_5_11_20.pdf




Beaver St Recycling Center Opens Full Service Starting Tuesday, May 19
Beaver St Recycling Center Opens Full Service Starting Tuesday, May 19

TuNesday: "Wake Up With Mr. Barrett"

Good morning! 🌞

ONLY FIVE MORE "Wake Up With Mr. Barrett" SHOWS LEFT!!! Tomorrow's show is...
70s.JPG

And NEXT TuNesday is Patriotic Singalong for Memorial Day weekend...

Mark your calendars, and share with students, staff, family and friends!!!

Here's the link to tomorrow's YouTube Livestream:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-hF1uCxycc&feature=youtu.be

Check out my latest recording, too! Here's the link for that: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mPJ-lVtdnLM



Please consider subscribing to my YouTube page for the latest news: https://www.youtube.com/user/Geetarmann


Thanks for your support, everyone! Hope to 'see' you out there!

Jamie 🎸


James H. Barrett
General Music K - 5
Jefferson/Davis Thayer
(508) 541-2120 ext. 1029
email: barrettj@franklinps.net

Please consider following me at:
Twitter: @MusicWithMrJHB and at:
http://musicwithmrbarrett.blogspot.com

TuNesday:  "Wake Up With Mr. Barrett"
TuNesday:  "Wake Up With Mr. Barrett"

Community Garden: OPENING - May 20

Good Morning,
I hope you are doing well and have managed to remain healthy.  With much excitement, we will be opening the Community Garden on Wednesday, May 20 with restrictions.  Please see the important attachment which has some very specific guidelines for all our safety during COVID-19.  Town of Franklin parks and playgrounds will remain closed until further notice, but I feel we can garden as long as we follow the guidelines. 
DPW will turn the water on next week.  Please let me know if you have any questions.  


Franklin Community Gardens


Garden Rules and Regulations

Purpose:


The purpose of this document is to establish the eligibility requirements and the rules of garden use for Franklin Community Gardens.



Scope:

All gardeners and volunteers who use the gardens that are part of Franklin Community Gardens.

General Information:

  • Eligibility for garden space: Application for garden bed lease shall be open to any current resident, property owner, local community group, business operator, or employee of the Town of Franklin.
  • Gardener dues are: $40.00 per season.
  • Gardeners may sign up or renew beds through the Town of Franklin Recreation Department, phone: (508) 613-1666, email: franklinrecreation@franklin.ma.us.
  • Leased beds may be renewed to gardeners in good standing.
  • If any unassigned beds remain after June 1 and there is no one on the wait list, the Garden Committee will notify gardeners that additional beds are available. Gardeners may then have the option of leasing one additional bed for that growing season only. The additional bed is not automatically renewable.
  • The Garden Committee is responsible for ensuring that the rules are followed at all times.


Rules and Regulations:
  • As a gardener, I accept and will abide by the following:
  • I will actively garden my bed during the gardening season
  • If I must abandon my bed for any reason, I will notify the current Garden Coordinator
  • I will keep my bed weeded and free of trash and debris, and I will maintain the areas immediately surrounding my bed, including pathways, in the same manner
  • If my bed becomes poorly maintained, I understand I will be contacted by a member of the Garden Committee via email on record. I will have one week to respond. If the Committee receives no response after that time, my bed will be reassigned
  • If I am unable to maintain my bed for any reason, whether short term or long term, I will notify the Recreation Department at (508) 613-1666 immediately
  • The Community Garden requires ongoing maintenance. Therefore, I agree to complete at least 4 hours per season toward garden maintenance.
  • I will harvest my bed in a timely manner
  • At the close of gardening season, I will remove all non-wintering plants and man-made objects from in and around my bed. Objects are not to be stored on the ground next to beds for safety reasons. Storage is available in the shed. Additionally, I will compost all non-wintering plants in my bed
  • I will garden only in my own bed unless given permission by another bed user
  • I understand all beds at Franklin Community Gardens will be organic and that the use of non-organic fertilizers, insecticides or weed repellents is forbidden. When in doubt, contact the Garden Coordinator
  • I understand that I will be held responsible for guests I bring to Franklin Community Gardens
  • I will not bring pets to the garden
  • I understand that my bed is not transferable
  • I understand that the Town of Franklin is not responsible for my actions. I therefore agree to hold harmless the Town of Franklin for any liability, damage, loss or claim that occurs in connection with use of the garden by me or any of my guests
  • Franklin Community Garden reserves the right to revoke bed use if a gardener violates any rules and regulations established by the Town or by Franklin Community Gardens. No refund will be provided for any garden beds that have been revoked due to misuse
  • I will abide by all rules and regulations established by Franklin Parks and Recreation for the use of Municipal Facilities


Happy Gardening,


Ryan Jette
Director of Recreation
Franklin Recreation Department
275 Beaver Street
Franklin, MA 02038
Office: (508) 613-1667

Link to additional info
https://drive.google.com/open?id=12ynYstU_260A1Pi0ZEJjGikUJJ_qvfHa

The last time I was at the community garden was in the BCE (before coronavirus era) Dec 26, 2019
The last time I was at the community garden was in the BCE (before coronavirus era) Dec 26, 2019