CommonWealth Magazine · Spilka makes a case for substance over process (audio)

Via CommonWealth Magazine we share this interview with Senate President Karen Spilka

"IN A WIDE-RANGING INTERVIEW on the CommonWealth Codcast, Senate President Karen Spilka kept returning to the theme of substance over process when it comes to legislation dealing with the state’s many pressing needs.

She applauded the House, Senate, and governor’s office for working collaboratively on a budget for the coming fiscal year rather than following the traditional path of each branch of government doing their own spending plan.

“Unprecedented times require unprecedented solutions,” she said. “We need to work together for the people of Massachusetts.”

She also used the same substance over process argument in talking about a feud between the House and Senate chairs of the Legislature’s Joint Committee on Health Care Financing that harkens back to a fairly bitter dispute between the two branches in 2015. The House chair of the committee is insisting all health care legislation should go through the panel, while the Senate chair, frustrated with the slow pace of law-making, is pulling bills filed by senators out of the committee and steering them to the Senate for action."

Continue reading the article online at Commonwealth Magazine
https://commonwealthmagazine.org/state-government/spilka-makes-case-for-substance-over-process-2/

Audio link:  https://soundcloud.com/massinc/the-codcast-6-28-20

CommonWealth Magazine · Spilka makes a case for substance over process

Senate President Karen Spilka. (State House News file photo.)

"Talking the Blues" - Mike Zito Interview - Nov 15, 2019

Jim Derick interviews Mike Zito (https://www.mikezito.com/)

You can listen to this show on Franklin Public Radio, wfpr.fm anywhere via your browser or at 102.9 on the local Franklin FM radio dial.

Thursday = 11:00a/2:00p/8:00pm Talkin’ the Blues – Jim Derick
Exploring the music of the great Blues tradition

Saturday = 5:00p Talkin’ the Blues – Jim Derick
Exploring the music of the great Blues tradition


Audio link = https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-h97aa-d8454a

Are you ready to Get Back to Business?

Now, with the State getting to reopen businesses we are inviting you to share your reopening plans so we can help celebrate your "Grand Reopening"

We created a Facebook page United Regional's Back to Business (https://www.facebook.com/United-Regionals-Back-to-Business-106228444403838/) and we invite you to post how you are planning to get back to business and to provide insight on the programs and policies being put in place to ready for the public for when you are able to reopen.

We encourage you to take photos with your employees, at your place of business, pictures of the updates you've made to deal with social distancing, special sales and/or promotions.

Post to the page or send your information to jack@unitedregionalchamber.org

We are here to help, let us know what we can do to help you reopen and Get Back to Business!

Thank you,

Jack


Jack Lank, IOM
President & CEO
The United Regional Chamber of Commerce
310 South Street
Plainville, MA 02762
Phone: 508-316-0861
www.unitedregionalchamber.org

"People Do Business With People They Know"

Are you ready to Get Back to Business?

“Closing the gates for this season is heartbreaking" both King Richard’s Faire and Pawsox cancel seasons

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

It was a “royally difficult” decision to make, but this fall’s eight-week run of the King Richard’s Faire has been canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The popular Renaissance-themed faire was supposed to take place Sept. 5-Oct. 25.

“Even royalty cannot beat the coronavirus,” said the faire’s longtime producer, Bonnie Shapiro who runs the operation with her daughter, Aimee Shapiro Sedley.

Shapiro and her late husband, Richard, brought the faire to Carver in 1981. Spread over 80-acres, it transports visitors to the 16th century by offering an array of performers, artisans, hand-cranked rides, knife-throwing booths, animal attractions and period food and drink (think: bloomin’ onions and yards of beer).

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200630/hear-ye-hear-ye-king-richards-faire-cancels-2020-season

The Pawtucket Red Sox today confirmed that the COVID-19 pandemic has caused the cancellation of their 2020 Minor League Baseball season. International League President Randy Mobley said, “Due to the many COVID-19 related challenges that would accompany staffing team rosters for a two-month season, Major League Baseball has now advised that they will not be assigning players to the teams of Minor League Baseball in 2020.”

This year is the first in the 137-year history of the International League (founded in 1884) that no games will have been played.

The PawSox will continue their community efforts to help those affected by the coronavirus, and will continue to celebrate their 50th anniversary (1970-2020).

As Major League Baseball gears up for its season, the Boston Red Sox have discussed using McCoy Stadium as the home of some of their workouts. Schedules and details will be announced.

Continue reading the article online
https://www.milb.com/pawtucket/news/cancellation-of-2020-season

COVID-19 pandemic has caused the cancellation of their 2020 Minor League Baseball season

“It’s uncomfortable for a lot of parents, so a lot of times they just skip over it"

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

It’s been two years since Sam Gouveia was teased by some of his kindergarten classmates for painting his nails red.

Now a month shy of his seventh birthday, he still paints his nails. He also started experimenting with make-up to recreate looks based off of YouTube tutorials. He started with his mom’s products, but now he has his own bag of make-up.

“He hasn’t had a problem (with being judged) since then,” said his father Aaron Gouveia, writer of the nationally-known “Daddy Files” blog, about that day in 2018.

When Gouveia started a thread on Twitter supporting Sam wearing nail polish, it went viral, receiving more than 35,000 likes and support from celebrities like former New England Patriots tight ends Rob Gronkowski and Martellus Bennett, and voice actress Tara Strong, who has voiced popular characters like Timmy Turner from the “Fairly OddParents.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://franklin.wickedlocal.com/news/20200630/his-three-sons-franklins-daddy-files-blogger-publishes-book-on-raising-boys-to-be-good-men

Listen to my interview with Aaron. We met on the Town Common, and socially distanced for our conversation.
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/06/fm-292-aaron-gouveia-daddy-files-52120.html

FM #292 Aaron Gouveia - Daddy Files - 5/21/20 (audio)

Franklin's 1949 American Lafrance Fire Truck Returns - June 30, 2020 (YouTube)

"The Franklin Fire Department has received an exceptionally generous donation from Edward Guzowski. He has donated a 1949 American LaFrance Model 7-75-AJO 75’ Service aerial truck.

We would like to thank Edward Guzowski for his generous donation. The Fire Truck has been kept in impeccable condition and remains a functional driving vehicle.

The truck he is donating is the first ladder truck the Town of Franklin ever bought."

The brief ceremony acknowledging the donation was held at Station 1 today

Video link = https://youtu.be/0L17vwcxvKc

Rep Jeff Roy tries out the 'air conditioned' front seat

side view of the vehicle

 end view of the 75' aerial ladder

The Town Council legislation for action to accept the donation on June 3, 2020
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/10b._resolution_20-30_gift_acceptance_-_fire_dept._-_truck.pdf


View the set of photos taken on June 30, 2020 at Station 1

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!

As just seen on WCVB Boston CHRONICLE, 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. 
 

Let's Laugh Today

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 will laugh, clap, and breathe! 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.


Here is the BOSTON CHRONICLE TV clip in case you missed it. It is three minutes long. https://www.wcvb.com/article/laughter-yoga-is-an-emotional-boost/32972798

the BOSTON CHRONICLE TV clip

Franklin Public Library: Newsletter - July 2020

July Newsletter for the Franklin Public Library
Interlibrary Loan has returned! Now holds can be placed on items throughout the Minuteman Network.
In observance of Independence Day, Curbside Pickup will not be available on Saturday, July 4th.
Even though we are closed to the public, the Library still has so much to offer! Here are updates and information regarding the Library's services during this closure:

• The Franklin Library is open for Curbside Delivery! Make your request online in our catalog. Wait until you receive an email, text or call that your holds are ready. You may also check your Minuteman account online.  If the items are checked out to you, they are ready for pickup. Pick up is at the School Street entrance Monday through Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the event of rain, please call the Circulation Desk at 508-520-4941.
• 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, Universal Class and PressReader on the Featured Databases page (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.
• Don't have a Library card? Apply for one online here https://library.minlib.net/selfreg ! This will give you access to all of our online resources and apps.
• Tune in to our Facebook page for streaming storytimes, book discussions, and other live programs. https://www.facebook.com/FranklinPublicLibrary/
• For email Reference service, or help with your library account, send questions to frkill@minlib.net . Inquiries will be answered within 24 hours.
• No donations are being accepted at this time. Please do not place them in the return bins or outside the building.

We are living in a time in history that will be remembered and discussed for generations. The Library would like to collect images of Franklin's experiences, ranging from the good to the challenging. Please share with us images of your experience during the Covid-19 pandemic and staying at home. Add your images to Twitter or Instagram with the hashtag #FranklinStaysHome. We will get through this together!
Fun free apps for book fans:  Litsy is Instagram for bibliophiles. Post photos of your favorite books, write a review, share a quote, and create a "stack" of TBRs.  Catch up on your classics with Serial Reader!  This app breaks up classic novels into short, 20 minute or less, reads.  If you allow notifications, it will alert you when it's time to read the next chapter.
Would you like a virtual escape to a world class art museum?  Check out Google Arts & Culture.  Walk the halls of the Uffizi Gallery in Florence or the London's Victoria & Albert Museum with just the click of your mouse. You can also search by artist or art movement.

Summer Reading at the Franklin Public Library!
Summer Reading Sign-ups are Live on the Franklin Public Library Website! Visit our Summer Reading Portal and sign up each of your children on a convenient google form right on our website! 
The Portal will also contain:

• Links to the school summer reading instructions
• FAQs
• A google form to help us track your reading! 
• Special videos from our summer performers!
• Downloadable activities!
• Summer Reading Bags will be available for curbside pickup at 10AM beginning on June 1st! Call the Children's Room when you arrive at the library, and we will help make sure you're signed up/check you off our list, and bring your summer reading bags out to you! Inside the summer reading bags you'll find everything you need to have an awesome summer with the library, including:
• Your reading logs and stickers (and instructions) to track your reading progress!
• A jam packed virtual event calendar to hang on the fridge!
• Special activity packets that correspond with each themed week of the summer! 
• Fun surprises!

The Summer Reading Theme this year is: Imagine Your Story, with a fun focus on fantasy and fairytales, and we've got a great calendar of virtual events that correspond with our weekly themes, from Knight Training Camp to Mythology Week, Dragon Week, Wizard Week and more! We can't wait to make this an epic summer! 

Imagine Your Summer! A Virtual Creators Club on Facebook!
Do you like to draw? Write? Code? Cook? Knit? Make collages? We want to celebrate making in all its forms this summer! Join our Facebook Group, called Imagine Your Summer! (available on the library Facebook Page in the groups tab!) We will be posting fun themed prompts throughout each week to help inspire your creativity, but we are also REALLY excited to have a space for you to share any creative projects you're working on or have made! This group is meant to serve creators of all ages, kids and grown-ups alike! Let's make this a super fun summer! If you can imagine it, we want to see it!

Kids and Families

Weekly Facebook Live Events!
Wake Up Wiggles! Mondays 9:15AM
Tummy Time for Babies! Thursdays @9:30AM **on the Tummy Time Attendees Facebook Group** 
Bookworm Bounce! Thursdays @4:00PM

Special Events for Families!
Pumpernickel Puppets! Wednesday, July 1st on Facebook!
Join us for a fun puppet show, including a cast of colorful puppet characters, live voices and sound effects! 
Dragons Love Tacos Virtual Party! Friday July 3rd on Facebook!
Join us on Facebook for a reading of the popular children's book Dragons Love Tacos and the sequel, Dragons Love Tacos 2!  We'll celebrate with crafts, activities, and of course, our famous "walking taco" recipe!!
Rockabye Beats with Marcos and Shon! Wednesday July 8th on Facebook!
Join Marcos and Shon for hands on learning through music, dancing, Spanish, and fun! No matter your age, this original music program is enjoyable for the whole family!
Jungle Jim Manning! Monday July 13th on Facebook!
Jungle Jim brings his fabulous engaging entertainment style virtually!  Join us for what is sure to be an awesome time!
Pixie Party Virtual Visit! Saturday July 18th on Facebook!
Enjoy a special virtual visit from a very famous fairy friend!
Spot the King with Mr. Vinny! Saturday July 18th, 10:30-11:30AM! (A Social-Distancing Seek and Find in Downtown Franklin!)
Where in Franklin is Mr. Vinny and his Giant Puppet? Join the fun for a Social Distancing Seek and Find! Follow the clues posted in the Facebook event and try to spot Mr. Vinny from your vehicle! 
Mermaid Splash Virtual Visit! Friday July 24th on Facebook!
Travel with us "Under the Sea" for a special, virtual visit with our favorite mermaid!
Ed the Wizard Harry Potter Celebration! Monday July 27th on Facebook!
Celebrate Harry Potter's Birthday this Summer!  Experience the World of Wizards with Transfiguration Class, Occlumency, Potions Class, etc! 
Harry Potter Virtual Party! July 31st- August 1st on Facebook!
Celebrate our favorite wizard's birthday virtually with the library! Dress up as your favorite character, post pictures on our event page, and enjoy downloadable crafts and activities at home!
Zoom Events for Families!
Happy Feet! *SOME* Fridays @10:30AM (7/17, 7/31, 8/14)
            Email Miss Bree at bcomeau@minlib.net to register for Happy Feet
Tummy Time for Babies! Tuesdays @9:30AM
          email Miss Caleigh at ckeating@minlib.net to register for Tummy Time!
Zoom Cool Cruisers! (Music and movement!) Tuesdays @4:00PM
          email Miss Caleigh at ckeating@minlib.net to register for Cool Cruisers!
Zoomtastic Book Club for Kids! Alternating Wednesdays @1:00PM **ideal for grades 3-5!**    
email Miss Caleigh at ckeating@minlib.net to register for Zoomtastic Book Club
Kids Cooking Class! Wed July 22 @1:00PM
          email Miss Caleigh at ckeating@minlib.net to register for Kids Cooking Classes! **adult supervision required!**

 
Adults
Peace of Mind Meditation Series, Tuesdays, July 7, 14 & 21, 11:00 a.m.
Join Soni Sayana, a seasoned meditation practitioner, as she leads us through a series of Meditation Sessions. Please ensure you can attend all three sessions as they build on each other. For adults ages 18 years and older. To register, please visit https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMudO-opjoqG9A9gVS05WmJLdqz0TBv8F_7 .

•  Inner Peace, July 7

We are living in challenging times that can create increased levels of stress, anxiety and worry. Meditation is a tool that can be used to manage these conditions and allow you to experience inner peace. The Raja Yoga knowledge, shared through this mediation practice, allows us to understand our thinking patterns and use techniques to shift away from deep rooted negative thinking to positive thinking.

• Inner Power, July 14th

The current times require us to navigate new ways of living our new normal. By understanding our 8 inner powers, we can learn to emerge these powers to increase inner capacity, strengthen resilience and flex with the changing times.

• Karma Philosophy, July 21st

The Raja Yoga karma philosophy explores a different perspective on why our lives go a certain way and how our destiny gets created. This deeper understanding of karma will provide an explanation to the current world condition, as well as future consequences that will impact our lives, those around us, as well as nature.

He Said, He Said, Thursday, July 9, 7:00 p.m.
Local story-tellers Judah Leblang and Randy Ross riff on life at a certain age from gay and straight perspectives. Register in advance for this Zoom meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMvcuCvqz4tHdX4m9zR1IudInPIZL0_s_hn
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Once Upon An Organized House, July 16, 7:00 p.m.
Professional Organizer Jenna Elliott will share tips on how to make the most of time spent at home. This fun and informative Zoom seminar will provide attendees simple things they can do to conquer clutter, tackle the paper, and make easy changes to their space. An inspiring organizing workshop all from the comfort of home!  To register, visit https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUpdu2grzwvGtRvnQ91WEIXginaIURdUzrN .

Beginners Chess for All Ages, Friday, July 17, 7:00 p.m.
This class teaches you the fundamentals of chess as a strategy game that is the most popular game in the world. In one hour you will learn the basics of playing chess including:

• Setting up the chess men
• Using the pawns
• Chess pieces and how they move to win
• Special moves
• Ten tips for playing a better game
• How to win a game of chess in 4 moves

To register, visit https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMsdO2oqDIjH92FBvyGkJC2H2-_xEXy8In4

Dive Into Summer With A New Attitude, Tuesday, July 21, 7:00 p.m.
How we live - and, most importantly, enjoy - our life depends upon how we view the events we experience and the relationships we develop.  Some people cower under an umbrella of pessimism while others choose to dance openly in the sunshine of optimism. Unfortunately, the current pandemic has given rise to more umbrella openings than joyful dancing.
But that can change. Behavioral scientists have proven we have the cognitive ability to transform our thoughts, beliefs and behaviors.  Since the summer is traditionally a period of renewal and resolution, there is no better time to commit to living optimistically than right now, as summer unfolds in previously unforeseen ways as we live through these challenging, and often chaotic, times.
This webinar opens the window on optimistic thinking for those who have yet to experience the joy of a life lived positively and encourages those who are already actively attempting to "stamp out" negativity to continue their quest. The topics covered include affirmative thinking, gratitude, forgiveness, prioritizing happiness, sharing, present-moment living, and positive learning. Led by Constance Hallinan Lagan.
To register, please visit https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIod-CgqzwpE9BOykiFnSxHxHxu9aworT3j

Michael Nix New Classic Banjo Concert, Friday, July 24, 7:00 p.m.
Banjo innovator, Michael Nix performs on the self-designed Banjar; a modern seven nylon string banjo which combines elements of the five-string banjo and guitar.  His compositions and arrangements, richly infused with folk, jazz and world music traditions, establish a unique 21st century classical banjo style. 
Michael Nix has performed throughout the United States and Asia; has recorded for the PBS series "American Experience", several independent documentaries, and numerous CD projects. His works are performed internationally. To register for this concert and Q&A session, please email Assistant Library Director Kim Shipala at kshipala@minlib.net .
You can view the concert on YouTube: https://youtu.be/aBOxpm3pqHs
You can visit Michael Nix's website at: https://www.michaelnixmusic.com/

Franklin Public Library Book Club, Tuesday, July 28, 7:00 p.m.
The book for discussion is Nothing To See Here, by Kevin Wilson.              
"Lillian and Madison were unlikely, yet inseparable friends at their boarding school. Then Lillian had to leave the school unexpectedly in the wake of a scandal, and they have barely spoken since. Years later, Lillian gets a letter from Madison pleading for her help. Madison's twin stepkids are moving in, and she wants Lillian to be their caretaker. However, there's a catch: the twins spontaneously combust when they get agitated. Lillian is convinced Madison is pulling her leg, but it's the truth. Thinking of the life that has consistently disappointed her, Lillian figures she has nothing to lose. Over the course of one demanding summer, Lillian and the twins learn to trust each other while also staying out of the way of Madison's uptight husband. Surprised by her intense feelings of protectiveness she feels for them, Lillian ultimately begins to accept that she needs these strange children as much as they need her. Could this be the start of the amazing life she'd always hoped for?"-- Provided by publisher.
A limited number of copies of the book will be available for checkout at the Circulation Desk. For more information, please contact Assistant Library Director Kim Shipala at kshipala@minlib.net . To register, please visit
 https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUpduigqzMvG91VEPtAJanIvuQ7j1jIHeCW .

Franklin Public Library: Newsletter - July 2020

Franklin Veterans – July 2020 News

July Coffee Social – Wednesday, July 1 - 10:00 AM. We will host our 3rd VIRTUAL Coffee Social via Zoom. All veterans are invited to join us! Check the Veterans Services page on the Town web site for details.

Veterans Memorial Walkway -The next engraved brick installation on the Memorial Walkway will be completed in July. Thanks to all purchasers for your patience with this during the pandemic. Brick sales will continue with the next installation being planned for Veterans Day in November.

NATIONAL PURPLE HEART DAY is August 7! Franklin is a Purple Heart Community and we are looking for Franklin veterans who have been awarded the Purple Heart. Recipients must live in Franklin or had been a Franklin resident if deceased. We are planning a Purple Heart recognition ceremony on Friday, August 7 at 5:30 p.m. on the Town Common. Please contact the Veterans Services Office at: (508) 613-1315 to be added to our Purple Heart database.

Veterans and Dependents – If you need assistance, please call the Veterans Services Office at: (508) 613-1315.

Franklin Veterans – July 2020 News

FSPA Offers Annual Broadway Boot Camp - July 22-24

The Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) will offer its annual Broadway Boot Camp this July for students Grades 8-12 with an additional option for Grades 1-7. This year’s special guest instructors will be Ben Bryant and Lonnie E. Davis Jr. The three-day Broadway Boot Camp (Grades 8-12) brings Broadway headliners to FSPA for song and dance master classes and coaching on individual performance skills. 

Broadway Boot Camp will run July 22-24. Classes will be socially distanced and will follow the FSPA Reopening Control Plan guidelines. There is a virtual option if students prefer to take the classes from home.

Ben Bryant currently serves as the Vocal Director for Royal Caribbean Cruises and appeared on Broadway in The King and I. Lonnie E. Davis Jr. has taught and choreographed for institutions and companies all over the country. Some include Master Teacher for PROJECT DANCE NYC/ATL; Ruth Mitchell Dance Theatre; Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education; Georgia Dance Conservatory; Full Circle Dance Co., Ballet Dalton, Gainesville Ballet, Cobb County Center For Excellence in the Performing Arts; resident choreographer/company instructor for REFUGE Dance Co.; and the Georgia Governor Honors Program.

Ben Bryant and Lonnie E. Davis Jr

For students Grades 1-7, Broadway Boot Camp for Children will be offered July 17-22. The program will include two private coachings with Ali Funkhouser and Master Classes with the Broadway Boot Camp guests.

Families can view the FSPA Reopening Control Plan guidelines as well as FSPA’s Reopening Instructional video on their website www.FSPAonline.com. Call 508-528-8668 to register and get more information. FSPA is located at 38 Main Street in Franklin, MA. Follow FSPA on Facebook, Instagram (@FSPAonline), and Twitter (@FSPAonline).

Staiti Qualifies for Ballot for Norfolk County Commissioner

Atty. Richard R Staiti of Canton has officially qualified for the Democratic Primary race for Norfolk County Commissioner to be held September 1.

Despite the challenges presented by the novel coronavirus, Staiti and his supporters gathered over 1000 signatures (over twice the reduced requirement of 500) to qualify for the Democratic ballot.

A lifelong resident of Canton, Atty. Staiti currently serves as the Town Moderator. Prior to serving as Moderator, Staiti served nine years as a member of the Board of Selectmen (newly renamed the Select Board), being elected Chairman three times. Staiti represents Canton on the Norfolk County Advisory Board which oversees all county finances and spending. He is the longest serving member of the board and has been elected Chairman of this financial board three times.
 

Atty. Richard R Staiti

“The role of County Commissioner is to oversee the operation and expenditures of various county operations including but not limited to the maintenance of the Court system, the Norfolk County Agricultural School, the President's Golf Course, county roads and layouts, engineering and other agencies under their supervision."

“As an attorney and with my education and experience as a selectmen, town moderator and long time member of the county advisory board, I feel this skillset will enable me to deal effectively and professionally with the many issues confronting county government in the decade ahead", Staiti said.

Staiti added that his many years of service in education and first hand knowledge as a classroom teacher as well as Director of Science and Technology at Canton High School will be invaluable in providing leadership to maintain and improve upon the programs of study at the Norfolk County Agricultural school. The County School is the jewel of the county. "We need to improve and maintain high standards for the students, staff and parents."

"The pandemic has changed our life and forced us to rethink things the way they are at present. With the economic issues caused by the pandemic, and as revenues dwindle we need to investigate and explore new ways of producing revenue without increasing taxes."

Staiti is a proponent for clean energy. “We need to expand the use of clean renewable energy in the county to preserve our environment and increase sources of revenue to the county operation. As an attorney I permitted one of the largest solar fields east of the Mississippi. The revenue from that project will provide a steady stream of income over a 20 year period. In addition the town (Canton) derives energy credits on the utility bill. Clean and reusable energy is something that we need to act upon now, not in five years."

"We should also collaborate and expand regional services to help local cities and towns especially in light of the impending fiscal crisis. With the help of the county and local chiefs, a grant was obtained to establish a regional dispatch operation that serves several towns in the county." Staiti worked closely with the fire chiefs and director to make this regional service a reality. "As smaller communities struggle with budget shortfalls, the county can play a larger role in managing and providing regional services."

"Like any municipal entity, the county should have a well planned, long term capital program to repair and maintain our courts and buildings. We need to set aside funds in a stabilization account that should be used only for capital improvements."

The son of working class parents, Staiti has been endorsed by unions such as New England Regional Council of Carpenters Local 346. He has been an avid participant in and supporter of numerous Massachusetts Nursing Association (MNA) vigils, canvassing and other related social justice actions.

The father of five children, Staiti is also a member of the Board of Directors on the Canton Association of Business and Industry, (CABI) as well as Trustee of the Salah Foundation.

“Change is needed now at the county and in all phases of government, help make change happen now! I respectfully ask for your vote for Richard Staiti as your new County Commissioner on election day September 1."

For more information about the campaign, please visit : www.votestaiticommissioner.com

In the News: conference committee resolves difference on ballot bill; Big-E canceled

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

"The House and Senate are poised this week to approve compromise early voting and vote-by-mail legislation that should pave the way for a major expansion of options ahead of the 2020 election to encourage participation during the COVID-19 pandemic.

All six lawmakers appointed to find a compromise on the bill (H 4820) signed onto a report Monday, including Republicans Rep. Brad Hill and Sen. Ryan Fattman. Rep. John Lawn, the lead House negotiator on the bill, said he anticipates a vote of the full House on the final bill Tuesday while the Senate plans to take it up Thursday, according to a spokesperson for the Senate president’s office.

“Hopefully we’ll take this up tomorrow and then to the Senate and get it to the governor as soon as possible,” Lawn said.

The House and Senate versions of the bill instruct the secretary of state’s office to mail every voter an application to request a mail-in ballot for the primaries on Sept. 1 and the general election on Nov. 3. The goal, lawmakers have said, is to continue in-person voting but to allow voters cast their votes early if they wish or to avoid the polls altogether if they feel unsafe due to virus transmission risks."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200629/voting-early-by-mail-nears-approval-by-house-senate

"Organizers announced Monday their decision to cancel the 2020 Big E Fair in the interest of safety.

The event was scheduled to be held from Sept. 18 through Oct. 4. Approximately 1.6 million people attend the annual event.

“The Big E Fair is so much more than just a fair, it is tradition, it is celebration, it is the showcase of everything we are so proud of in New England. This is why our hearts are heavy as we bring you this news,” a spokesperson wrote.

Organizers said staff spent months trying to figure out a way to save the event, but “realized that The Big E experience that everyone has come to know and love would not be the same.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200629/2020-big-e-canceled-because-of-coronavirus-outbreak

In the News: Supreme Court maintains abortion rights; Broadway performances suspended for year

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

"A narrowly divided Supreme Court struck down state restrictions on abortion clinics Monday for the second time in four years, signaling that its conservative shift under President Donald Trump has not eliminated a deep split over abortion rights.

The court ruled 5-4 that a Louisiana law requiring doctors who perform abortions to have admitting privileges at nearby hospitals would unduly burden women. Chief Justice John Roberts joined the four liberal justices in the majority.

The court reached the same conclusion in 2016 regarding a Texas law, but since then Associate Justice Brett Kavanaugh had succeeded retired Associate Justice Anthony Kennedy, giving abortion opponents hope for even more substantial restrictions.

Associate Justice Stephen Breyer wrote the main opinion for the four liberal justices. He agreed with a federal trial court that found Louisiana’s law “poses a ‘substantial obstacle’ to women seeking an abortion” and “offers no significant health-related benefits.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/zz/news/20200629/supreme-court-strikes-down-abortion-clinic-restrictions-in-louisiana-defeat-for-conservatives

"Broadway performances are being further suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Broadway League announced Monday in a press release that Broadway performances in New York City will be suspended through the remainder of 2020 due to COVID-19.

Broadway theaters are also now offering refunds and exchanges for tickets purchased for all performances through January 3, 2021, the release states.

“The Broadway League continues to work with city and state officials as well as leaders in science, technology, and medicine to formulate the best plan to restart the industry,” the release states. “Some of the logistics being currently reviewed for audience members and employees include: screening and testing, cleaning and sanitizing, wayfinding inside theatres, backstage protocols, and much more.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/zz/news/20200629/broadway-suspends-performances-through-2020-amid-coronavirus-extends-ticket-refunds-to-2021

COVID mask exemption cards are not from the government

COVID mask exemption cards are not from the government by Colleen Tressler, Consumer Education Specialist, FTC  To help limit the spread of the Coronavirus, many states are requiring people to wear face coverings in places open to the public. But there are cards circulating online and on social media that say the holder has a disability that prevents them from wearing a mask, and that it's illegal for any business to ask them to disclose their condition.  Variations of the card include the seal of the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), one of the federal agencies responsible for enforcing the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The fact is, these cards aren't issued or endorsed by DOJ, or any other federal agency. Read more  https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2020/06/covid-mask-exemption-cards-are-not-government This is a free service provided by the Federal Trade Commission.

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Virtual Coffee with Brutus - June 30 - Ask questions about water usage, resources, etc.

Join in for a brief presentation on the current drought conditions.

Residents can ask questions about water usage, development, water resources, etc...

Zoom link https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84275794979​ or Call-In Phone Number: 1-929-205-6099, enter Meeting ID 84275794979, press “#”

Virtual Coffee with Brutus - June 30 - Ask questions about water usage, resources, etc.

Franklin radar found via Twitter
https://twitter.com/TOFranklinMA/status/1277622714623238145?s=09