Manufacturing Caucus Hosts Fifth Annual Manufacturing Award Ceremony ‘Reimagined’

Contollo MA Manufacturing of Franklin, Massachusetts was nominated for the Manufacturer of the Year Award at the Fifth Annual Manufacturing Award Ceremony during a virtual ceremony. Contollo was nominated by State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin). Contollo supports the medical industry with products manufactured in the United States and has helped keep the community safe in battling COVID-19.

In Latin, Contollo means to bring together, and this is what exactly the manufacturer has done during the pandemic. At the beginning of the pandemic, the founders were able to see the desperate need for personal protective equipment and were able to repurpose an old factory and start production within six weeks.  

A team of state and local officials, led by Rep. Jeff Roy and Franklin Town Council Chair Tom Mercer, worked with the company to get the infrastructure and permitting in place to begin production in just six weeks. Contollo now produces over 60,000 gowns a week and has created 50 new jobs. 

L to R, Mr. Bob Vozzella, (Chief Operating Officer) Mr. Peter Berzin (Chief Executive Officer) and Representative Jeffrey N. Roy

As part of its commitment to the community, Contollo has donated thousands of PPE Gowns to several local fire departments and Milford Regional Medical Center to aid in addressing the pandemic. 

“This year, more than ever, making it in Massachusetts has taken on a new meaning because of the commitment and endurance of our manufacturers,” said Rep. Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin), House Chair of the Legislature’s Manufacturing Caucus.  “Massachusetts manufacturers have proudly adapted and pivoted in response to the pandemic, producing desperately needed Personal Protection Equipment and other vitally important products in response to the pandemic.”

“It has been incredible to watch as Massachusetts manufacturers have stepped up to support the fight against COVID-19, pivoting their operations to create PPE and other critical supplies that protect our healthcare workers and help businesses open safely,” said Housing and Economic Development Secretary Mike Kennealy. “We applaud all the companies and small businesses recognized this year, and our administration looks forward to continuing to partner with the Legislature to support the skills training, equipment and infrastructure needed for continued sector growth.”

Fifth Annual Manufacturing Award Ceremony ‘Reimagined’

The event was the state’s Fifth Annual Manufacturing Award Ceremony sponsored by the Legislature’s Manufacturing Caucus.  Although the event is usually held in the State House, this year it was ‘Reimagined’ thanks to MassMEP holding the ceremony via a webinar.  In all, 52 companies were recognized for truly “making it” in Massachusetts and each will be featured in a commemorative magazine.

Representative Roy, Senator Eric P. Lesser (Co-Chair of the Caucus), Secretary of Housing & Economic Development Michael Kennealy, House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo, Senate President Karen E. Spilka and Mr. John Killam, President and CEO of MassMEP offered remarks at the ceremony. 

“It is always a pleasure to recognize the efforts and milestones in innovation each year with my fellow Manufacturing Caucus Co-Chair Representative Roy,” said Senator Lesser. “In the early stages of the pandemic, many of the manufacturers recognized today went above and beyond to help their communities and assist in the fight against the virus by producing PPE, testing components, and connecting people with vital resources. This award is one way to thank them for the impactful and innovative work they’ve done and will continue to do.”

Formed in August 2014, the Manufacturing Caucus includes more than 60 legislators from around the Commonwealth. Lawmakers focus on training for manufacturing employees; encouraging innovation by helping start-ups access resources; and expanding apprenticeship opportunities in key manufacturing sectors.
 

Ceremony: https://www.facebook.com/MassMEP/videos/348913272880008

Commemorative magazine: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1303531-2020-massachusetts-manufacturing-awards/0?

 

Local State races: Rausch and Roy win

For the two local State races

• Senator Becca Rausch beat Matt Kelly 61.1% to 38.9% 

via Boston Globe:  https://www.bostonglobe.com/elections/2020/massachusetts/state%20senate/norfolk%2C%20bristol%20%26%20middlesex/

• Representative Jeff Roy retains his seat running officially unopposed although there was a write in campaign.

via Boston Globe: https://www.bostonglobe.com/elections/2020/massachusetts/state%20house/10th%20norfolk/

Representative Jeff Roy retains his seat running officially unopposed

The unofficial election results for Franklin, MA as released Tuesday, Nov 3, 2020 by the Town Clerk Nancy Danello

To download your copy

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_sI-rdLmfxzXXdADdH5LGfdA66S9a4r8/view?usp=sharing

 

#SNETTPhoto2020 photos winners announced

"We are excited to announce the winners of the first annual photo contest #SNETTPhoto2020!

We would like to thank everyone who entered and we are looking forward to your participation again next year."

 

For the winning photos, please visit the Rail Trail Committee page

https://www.franklinbellinghamrailtrail.org/2020/11/02/snettphoto2020-and-the-winners-are/

 

#SNETTPhoto2020 photos winners announced (just a photo of the new tunnel, not a winning photo)

 

Women’s Faith Formation Ministry - scheduled to meet Saturday - Nov 7

The Women’s Faith Formation Ministry at St. Mary Parish has begun. This meeting is open to ALL women.

We meet on the first Saturday of each month from 9:30-10:15am.The video/speaker presentations will last approximately 15-20 minutes and will be followed by 15-20 minutes of discussions and/or questions. No homework or preparation is involved.

If you are interested in attending our monthly meeting, please email Deacon Guy (deaconguy@stmarysfranklin.org) to receive information and the Zoom link to attend. 

 

Women’s Faith Formation Ministry - meets Saturday, Nov 7

 

In the News: "Franklin voters opt to adopt Community Preservation Act"

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

"Many projects around town that have been relegated to the back burner because of a lack of funding will have a better chance of being realized now that voters have adopted the provisions of the state Community Preservation Act.

The CPA question, which appeared on this election’s ballot along with two statewide questions regarding ranked-choice voting and right to repair, was handily passed with about 61% of those voting giving it the nod.

The measure will add a 2% surcharge to local property taxes as a means of raising money for often put-off open space and historic preservation projects, recreation projects and community housing development.

According to results reported by the Town Clerk’s Office, the ballot question decision was 11,565 in favor and 7,370 opposed."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)

https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20201104/franklin-voters-opt-to-adopt-community-preservation-act?rssfeed=true 

 

Community Preservation Act - election results   ("unofficial")

• Yes = 11565    
• No = 7370    
• Blanks = 862    
• total = 19797 

  

In the News: "Franklin voters opt to adopt Community Preservation Act"

Franklin, MA "Unofficial" results - Nov 3, 2020

The unofficial election results for Franklin, MA as released Tuesday, NOv 3, 2020 by the Town Clerk Nancy Danello

To download your copy

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_sI-rdLmfxzXXdADdH5LGfdA66S9a4r8/view?usp=sharing

 

"Unofficial"	Topic	Yes	No	Blanks	Total
Ballot Question 1	Right to repair	14018	5260	519	19797
Ballot Question 2	Ranked Choice Voting	7529	11631	637	19797
Ballot Question 3	Community Preservation Act	11565	7370	862	19797

 

 

Franklin, MA "Unofficial" results - Nov 3, 2020

 

Franklin voters: Election Day is here

Election Day is here.  Please note the following:
- The drive-thru window will be open until 8 PM on 11/3
- Ballots sent via USPS must be postmarked by 11/3
- The white mailbox will be checked for the FINAL time at 8 PM on 11/3
- Polls will be open at Franklin High School from 7 AM - 8 PM

Other election information can be found here

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/11/franklin-voters-election-2020-reminders.html

or on the Town Clerk page https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk

 

 

Franklin voters: Election Day is here

Franklin, MA: Board of Health - Agenda - Nov 4, 2020

Franklin Board Of Health
Duly Scheduled Meeting and Public Hearing
Wednesday, November 4, 2020, 5:00 PM

AGENDA

1)    Reading and Acceptance of October 21, 2020 and October 28, 2020 meeting minutes

2)    OLD BUSINESS

3)    NEW BUSINESS

•    Discuss Title 5 plans for 4 Abbey Lane
•    Discus Chapter 238: Manicurist Establishments
•    Recruitment of volunteers for vaccine clinic
•    New orders regulating gatherings, early closing for certain businesses and revised face covering
•    Update on 27 Winter Street dwelling
 
Chairman opens the floor for any other new business

4) CITIZENS COMMENTARY

5) ADJOURNMENT 

 

Connection info contained in Agenda doc

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/agendas/agenda-11-4-20_revised.pdf

 

Franklin, MA: Board of Health - Agenda - Nov 4, 2020

Franklin Residents: Job Opportunities - Firefighter/paramedic; heavy equipment operator, Recycling Center laborer; substitute custodian

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.  

Firefighter/Paramedic - Fire Department (4 positions) 
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/ff-paramedic-posting-nov22020.pdf

Heavy Motor Equipment Operator - Department of Public Works
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/hmeo-external-posting-july272020.pdf

Recycling Center Laborer - Department of Public Works
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/recycling-center-laborer-posting-august172020.pdf

Substitute Custodian
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/sub.custodian-posting-july272020.pdf

If you do not have a resume, you may send a completed Application for Employment instead.  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/application_for_employment_-_town_of_franklin.pdf

To receive notifications of all job opportunities in the Town of Franklin, subscribe here  https://www.franklinma.gov/subscribe.

Franklin Residents: Job Opportunities

Please respond to the Davis Thayer Facilities Analysis Survey - open now; closes Dec 2, 2020

The Franklin School Committee's Davis Thayer Facilities Analysis Subcommittee is interested in gathering the thoughts and perspectives about the possible closing of Davis Thayer.  

They are collecting survey responses from current and former Davis Thayer families, FPS families, Davis Thayer and Franklin Public Schools faculty and staff, and town community members.  

If you would like to share your thoughts, please use the link below. This survey will be open until December 2 and can be found at the link below.

https://forms.gle/Y9qtAU1uMN14VmyY7

Print-based copies will also be made available at locations throughout town. More information will follow. This form was built in Google and translations are available. If you need assistance, please contact the Superintendent's Office at 508-553-4819. 

Davis Thayer Facilities Analysis Survey - open now; closes Dec 2, 2020

In the News: Change to remote learning at FHS; petition started

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

"Hybrid learning at Franklin High School will be halted for two weeks after an underage drinking party was held on Halloween, school officials announced on Sunday.

In a letter to families, Superintendent Sara Ahern and Principal Josh Hanna said they learned an indoor party was held on Saturday at a home with up to 50 high school students attending. Franklin police officers, who broke up the party, were able to identify a small number of students there, but many of them scattered and were not identified.

Attendees were not wearing masks and were not social distancing, said Ahern and Hanna. They said they consulted the local health department in making the decision.

“This behavior puts everyone at Franklin High School at risk and we have no choice but to remain in the remote setting for another two weeks,” wrote Ahern and Hanna."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)  https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20201102/franklin-high-school-to-go-remote-until-nov-16-after-underage-drinking-party-leads-to-covid-19-concerns?rssfeed=true

 

"The Franklin High School Fall Athletes season has come to an abrupt halt due to a decision made by the Franklin Superintendent Sara Ahern.  We are asking that you sign our petition to Let Them Play!  

The decision was made to suspend the season for two weeks.   However this will ultimately cause them to forfeit the rest of the season with the teams entering playoffs starting this week. "

Full petition link available  https://www.change.org/p/dr-sara-ahern-franklin-ma-school-superintendent-let-the-franklin-high-school-fall-athletes-finish-their-season

 

  

In the News: new orders to combat COVID-19; School District to decide Davis Thayer and maybe more

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

"In an effort to quell rising COVID-19 cases across the state, Gov. Charlie Baker issued new orders Monday afternoon that will put a curfew on some businesses, require face coverings in all public spaces and limit the size of in-person gatherings.

Baker announced the new measures on Monday in an attempt to curb COVID-19 cases, which he said are up by 278% since Labor Day. Hospitalizations are up 145% in that same period.

“Too many of us have become complacent in our daily lives ... If we do nothing and stay on the track we’re on now, we’ll create a capacity issue (in hospitals) by the end of the year,” Baker said. “It’s our hope to encourage people to act responsibly. ... We can’t afford to continue to do what we’ve been doing.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)

https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20201102/baker-orders-face-masks-in-public-and-930-pm-closing-time-for-many-businesses-rollback-comes-as-covid-counts-increase-in-massachusetts?rssfeed=true 

 

"An architecture firm hired by Franklin Public School officials to evaluate closing Davis Thayer Elementary School last year recently came back to them with data indicating that they should also think about closing another school, too.

Or merging two schools to create a district-wide middle school.

Architect Craig Olsen from Kaestle Boos Associates presented a comprehensive facilities analysis report to the Franklin School Committee on Oct. 27, reviewing the viability of closing Davis Thayer Elementary.

If no changes are made to any of the schools, Olsen said all of them will continue to operate under capacity, will be financially burdened by costs to maintain those underutilized facilities and would suffer “reduced educational adequacy in schools built prior to 1996.” 

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)

https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20201102/franklin-school-officials-should-consider-closing-davis-thayer-elementary-but-its-not-only-school-they-need-to-address-according-to-architects-report?rssfeed=true

 

Cobi Frongillo Energizes His Base and Connects with Franklin Residents

Franklin special election Town Council candidate Cobi Frongillo kept his campaign momentum rolling on Saturday, October 31st, with a rally held at the Franklin Town Common. Volunteers and interested citizens showed up to munch on Fairmount Farm’s cider donuts and hear Frongillo speak on a chilly Halloween morning. “It was great seeing so much energy for local politics,” said Cobi Frongillo. “We look forward to a great turnout in the special election on December 5th.”

After the gathering, volunteers took to the neighborhoods of Franklin to deliver Frongillo’s handwritten letters to residents, introducing Frongillo’s history in service and vision for the community. A core tenet of Frongillo’s vision is an expansion of local civic engagement.

 

 

Cobi Frongillo Energizes His Base

Frongillo spoke to the crowd about the importance of local government, especially in an age of political unrest. “Local government is the best way for citizens to affect change in their community. Local government is what opens schools, plows roads, and supports business in Franklin. We have an opportunity this December to ensure Franklin’s local government truly represents and engages all residents in it's political process,” said Frongillo at the Common.

Frongillo drew on his extensive experience volunteering in Franklin and his academic background in public policy, with his research efforts recently earning him acknowledgements in the 2020 book “Hometown Inequality: Race, Class, and Representation in American Local Politics.”

En route to receiving his Master’s in Public Policy from the University of Massachusetts- Amherst in 2019, Frongillo also authored reports on the sustainable economic development of Downtown Franklin and municipal energy aggregation programs like the one starting in Franklin this month.

 

rally held at the Franklin Town Common

 

You can learn more about Cobi Frongillo’s campaign and vision on his website (cobifrongillo.com), Facebook page (facebook.com/Frongillo4Franklin), and Twitter account (@FrongilloCobi).

 

Reason#5 to #ThinkFranklinFirst

"Reason#5: Local businesses create local jobs! Consistently supporting small businesses helps them to thrive! As they grow and expand, they often need more help, which means new local employment opportunities!" #ThinkFranklinFirst #ItMatters #KeepItLocal #ShopLocal

 

Shared from Twitter: https://twitter.com/TOFranklinMA/status/1323375235622731779

 

Reason#5 to #ThinkFranklinFirst

CommonWealth Magazine: mail voting may remain; abortion access up for discussion during lame duck session

From CommonWealth Magazine we share an article of interest for Franklin:

"Because of the coronavirus pandemic, Massachusetts allowed no-excuse mail-in voting for the first time this year as well as expanded early voting – and millions of voters took advantage.

By Saturday evening, 2.28 million voters had cast their ballots, either by mail or in person – a number equivalent to more than two-thirds of all ballots cast in the 2016 election.

For Pam Wilmot, vice president of state operations for Common Cause, said that is all the proof needed to retain no-excuse mail-in voting going forward. “This process works, and we should absolutely make it permanent,” Wilmot said.

Wilmot and state Sen. Barry Finegold, an Andover Democrat who chairs the Legislature’s Joint Committee on Election Laws, joined The Codcast to talk about the changes to voting made in this year’s elections and the implications for future elections."'

Continue reading article online  https://commonwealthmagazine.org/the-download/mail-in-voting-may-be-here-to-stay-2/

 

"MASSACHUSETTS HOUSE SPEAKER Robert DeLeo and Senate President Karen Spilka announced on Monday that the two branches will take up abortion access legislation during the lame duck session that runs until the end of the year.

“We are very concerned that Massachusetts’ women’s reproductive rights are under threat at the national level,” said DeLeo and Spilka in a joint statement. “We are therefore committed to debate measures in the House and Senate this session that would remove barriers to women’s reproductive health options and protect the concepts enshrined in Roe v. Wade.”

It is not clear what removing barriers means specifically, but it’s likely the legislation would deal with at least some of the provisions in the so-called ROE Act, which would expand access to abortion, require health insurance coverage for abortions to be covered for low-income residents not eligible for MassHealth, and allow for abortions after 24 weeks in cases where the fetus has been diagnosed with a fatal birth defect. Current law only allows abortions to occur after 24 weeks when the life of the mother is at risk."

Continue reading article online  https://commonwealthmagazine.org/state-government/deleo-spilka-promise-abortion-debate-in-lame-duck-session/