Franklin Senior Center: Email Blast Apr 9, 2021

Hello Everyone!

Staying Connected

Link to the Senior Center - https://www.franklinma.gov/fsc

Link to the Senior Center Calendar https://www.franklinma.gov/node/39/events/day 

Link to Franklin Matters - https://www.franklinmatters.org/ and www.franklin.news 

Link to the Town's webpage - https://www.franklinma.gov/

Link to Mass.Gov COVID - https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-updates-and-information 

Change of date! The spring Fling date has been moved to May 16th.  Please call the Senior Center to sign up for this event. 508-520-4945

Tips

Calm Gong meditation music - Tam Tam gong and crystal bowls

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lw708zdRXuw 

Balance Exercises for Seniors

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VHMgkTC9UAc 

Music

The oldest known song of all time

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KElPnD-dbkk 

Evolution of Music - Pentatonix 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lExW80sXsHs 

Just for Fun

Webcams from National Parks - choose which you want to view

https://blog.cheapism.com/national-park-webcams/#close 

Abstract landscapes painting demo

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k1F7KgBdog8 

What happens if you put your head into a particle accelerator?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mD4J5VUwiAs 

Humor

Jeff Allen - 5 months of shutdown created these jokes

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=soW8Tqp5acQ 

Kindness Matters

Upcoming Events next week

email adoggett@franklinma.gov to attend unless noted otherwise.

*Monday at 1pm - Tele-Bingo call the Senior Center to sign up

*Monday at 2pm - Memory Cafe - a virtual, social music event for those with memory loss and their caregivers. 

*Tuesday at 5pm - Quarantini Time a virtual, social, cocktail hour.

*Tuesday at 1pm - Low Vision Group- email mgunderson@franklinma.gov 

*Wed. 11am - Mindful Movements - via zoom call to register

*Wed. 1pm - Tommaso Juglis - The World Class Artist who created the Ray Memorial Library murals -- and so much more. Alan Earls will present a short talk and slide show.

*Thursday at 10am - SUPERFOODS  Learn the tools of nutritional success for enhancing your brain power, increasing your energy, and improving your mood. Offered by Blue Cross Blue Shield. To register: https://well-b.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_XtzrDHcpR8uknF07WMCoSw 

*Thursday at 12:30 IN PERSON - Painting and Creative Space

*Thursday  at 1pm - Tele Bingo call the Senior Center to play 508-520-4945

*Thursday at 6:30 - NAME THAT TUNE! Whether you know your music or just enjoy listening to it you are sure to have fun at this lively, fun filled event! Email adoggett@franklinma.gov to play

*Friday at 11am - Sunshine Zoom - for members with memory loss - 1 hour of socialization,

 games and activities.

 

Attached you will find Donna's fun filled activity pages!

https://drive.google.com/file/d/139yab6vr7tb1lxHVCZognQWeUXUv5jkW/view?usp=sharing

Stay safe and enjoy the beautiful sunshine!

Ariel

Please feel free to share this email with anyone you think might enjoy it.  If you want me to add someone to the email blast list just send me a message with their email in it. 

REMEMBER:

When searching for information about the Coronavirus, COVID-19 please use caution!  Unfortunately there are many false sites that contain viruses and malware that can threaten your computer.  Many look like real sites.  Your best bet is to go directly to the CDC, WHO or your local government page (links below).   

https://www.cdc.gov/ 

https://www.who.int/

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

--

Ariel Doggett

Virtual Program Coordinator

Respite Coordinator

"We rise by lifting others" - Robert Ingersoll

There is no act of kindness too small

FM #506 - Economic Development SubCommittee Mtg - 04/07/21 (audio)

FM #506 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 506 in the series. 

This shares the Economic Development Subcommittee meeting that was held on Wednesday, April 7, 2021. 

The meeting was conducted in a hybrid mode; some of the key participants were in the Council Chambers, the Chair Melanie Hamblen led the meeting remotely along with several others via Zoom conference bridge to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

Links to the meeting agenda and my notes are in the show notes. The meeting recording runs about 58 minutes.  Let’s listen to the Economic Development Subcommittee meeting

Audio file = https://player.captivate.fm/episode/de5abca6-def8-46ef-a57a-d778d91c618a

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Meeting agenda 
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/agendas/2021-4-7_edc_agenda_.pdf

Downtown Partnership “Ladybug Trail’ presentation doc
https://www.slideshare.net/shersteve/franklin-downtown-partnership-planning-ladybug-trail

My notes captured via Twitter and shared here in summary form
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/04/recap-economic-development-subcomm-mtg.html 

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

We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm). 

This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.

How can you help?

• If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors
• If you don't like something here, please let me know

Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.

For additional information, please visit   Franklinmatters.org/  or www.franklin.news/

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 #506 - Economic Development SubCommittee Mtg - 04/07/21 (audio)

Senior Coffee Hour with Local & State Officials - Apr 22

Senior Coffee Hour with Local & State Officials

The next Senior Coffee Hour with our local and state officials is scheduled for April 22  at 8:30 AM. 

Please pre-register via this link!  https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwpduuhrTouHNJ6vuunKSDfG5CDExxpgnZi

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Shared from :  https://www.franklinma.gov/home/news/senior-coffee-hour-local-state-officials

Senior Coffee Hour with Local & State Officials - Apr 22

Recap: Town Council meeting - Apr 7, 2021 - capital budget approved, streets accepted, DPW presentation, complete streets policy

Quick Recap:

• Public hearing on street acceptances for four streets, two of which were in the 'normal' process timing and were approved. Two were part of the backlog, coming through on a revised process and not approved as they lacked Planning Board approval. The full process will be needed for these two so they'll come back for approval some time TBD
• Enlightening and fact filled presentation by DPW on their operations.
• Lengthy set of legislation for action. The capital budget (previously approved by FinComm and Capital Budget subcommittees) a set of separate actions all passed
• The stormwater bylaw technical adjustments were finally approved after once again being challenged as something nefarious to force the stormwater fee into operation (no, this item has nothing to do with the fee itself. That is scheduled for discussion during the budget hearings and likely will be a long and challenging discussion.)
• The food truck permit for private property was approved (yahoo!)

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As with most meetings in this pandemic period, I took my notes via Twitter during the meeting reporting in real-time via the virtual session.

Photos captured during the meeting and shared via Twitter can be found in one album:  https://photos.app.goo.gl/9A7nKejgy9p44DuUA

The Twitter hashtag can be found online  #tc0407
https://twitter.com/search?q=%23tc0407&src=typeahead_click 

• Town Council meeting coming up, real time reporting for this about to begin. Follow along with the agenda here #tc0407  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/agendas/2020-04-07_town_council_agenda.pdf  Connection info in doc
• Meeting opens, #tc0407 20+ on Zoom to open with.
• 2 councilors not present (Pellegri and Kelly), Hamblen remote via Zoom. #tc0407 citizen comments, none tonight Approval of minutes of Mar 17, second, passes 7-0 via roll call 
• A little early for public hearing to start. Subcommittee reports: capital budget did meet …
• Budget meeting april 12, 5:30 Joint budget Subcommittee EDC just met earlier tonight, talked about the ladybug trail, discussed the business guide as developed, #edc0407 Community planning grant and other items to be covered in next meeting

Public hearing

• Public hearing on street acceptance opens: https://franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/agendas/2021-03-24_web_street_acceptances_2_-_milford_daily_news_legal_notice.pdf… #tc0407 next set of non-accepted streets (over 100 to be done) Town Administrator Jamie Hellen provides overview
• Bissanti questioning why these 'newer' ones are coming in where others could be here and aren't. These are in the regular process and currently being done - others lack plans and/or data and require more work. #tc0407 general process assumes acceptance unless a special item
• #tc0407 street acceptance does chap 90 funding, pavement management plan, $40m backlog of those to bring up to quality. If we did not accept, legally we wouldn't need to clear snow etc. That is a safety issue and a systemic issue on overall funding and priority
• #tc0407 laws are written in favor of developers and also Municipal entities are not able to add fees for road acceptance to recover funds. Chap 90 is the only revenue we gain on roads. We have a legal obligation to accept (assuming I special items)
• Q on gas tax funding roads, it goes to the Commonwealth, the allotment we get is Chap 90. Hotel tax is a local option revenue collected through the State then to us, mostly appropriated to roads, this year due to pandemic and decline in hotel occupancy #tc0407
• Moving to Brandywine and Charles Drive for the acceptance process. #tc0407 Attny Cerel provides some background on the acceptance process for subdivisions which weren't covered in the original legislation. Planning Board didn't recommend to accept hence can't proceed tonight
• #tc0407 Brandywine et al had not been originally thru planning board so they did not want to recommend. Public hearing closes. Moving to DPW presentation, doc to be added later.

DPW presentation

• Slides on overview #tc0407
• 60 acres of playing fields to manage and take care of #tc0407 35 flags maintained; 102 trash, recycling barrel sets;
• 1813 signs in town, street line striping along with parking lots, 30 traffic lights, 328 crosswalks in Town; central motors for all town vehicles 167 road vehicles with registration #tc0407
• #tc0407 grew from 1200 customers to over 3,000 at the recycling center, Beaver St.
• #tc0407 with 23 lift stations, some refuse gets lifted 7 times before it gets to where it needs to, would have been nice to have a master plan for sewer; elevated tanks to provide water pressure dropped from 3.1 to 2.6 million gallons due to water conservation measures
• #tc0407 second water treatment plant (off Grove St) coming online later this year.
• #tc0407 it is cost efficient to do much of the vehicle maintenance inhouse some stuff does make sense to send out, however we are 1st responders and would need to get a truck or police car turned around quickly
• DPW "the work they do touches everyone in Town". They are short staffed and doing more with what they have. #tc0407 you give us the money, we get to spend it. Could add fencing to create a small dog zone at the dog park.
• Trash vs recycling mix is bad if over a 10% mix (bad in with the good), audit just done and we came in low at 7% #tc0407

Legislation for Action

• Moving to legislation for action: https://franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/10a._web.pdf… capital appropriation for FY 2022.  #tc0407 motion to approve, second, passes 7-0 (2 absent) to use $1.5m free cash. There is a large backlog of items for future.
• Next up, funding OPEB trust fund  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/10b._town_council_resolution_21-14_free_cash_opeb_fy21.pdf … #tc0407 Motion and second, 10% of free cash per TC policy, update next week for the overall OPEB status and Q&A. Passes 7-0 (2 absent)
• Field stabilization funding https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/10c._town_council_resolution_21-15_free_cash_stabilization_transfers_fy21.pdf  … #tc0407 motion and second; annual transfer to save for future. Passes 7-0 (2 absent)
• Water enterprise fund, to approve use of retained earnings per capital expense as authorized https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/10d._town_council_resolution_21-16_fy21_water_retained_earnings_to_water_line_resolution.pdf  #tc0407 motion and second, passes 7-0 (2 absent)
• Next up easement for approval https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/10e._web_0.pdf … #tc0407 motion and second; passes 7-0 (2 absent)
• Next up street acceptance, motion to waive reading, second, passes 7-0; motion and second on resolution, passes 7-0 (2 absent) #tc0407
• Complete streets policy #tc0407 https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/10h._complete_streets.pdf … motion and second; first step in process for a master plan for transportation via all modes, enables us to gain grants, admin policy likely to be adjusted overtime more easily than a bylaw, passes 7-0, (2 absent)
• Moving to next item special regulations https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/10j._web.pdf … #tc0407 motion to move to a second reading, no change to stormwater fee, a technical clean up, needed to go to planning board, which approved 5-0; Bissanti is this the mechanism for the billing? No …
• ... need to be clear this is not a trojan horse. It has nothing to do with the billing. Technical clean up on verbiage of the permit. When will we get to the billing? During the budget hearing. #tc0407 passes via roll call 6-1 (Bissanti no, 2 absent).
• New permit fee for food truck on private property, https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/10k._web.pdf #tc0407 this is second reading, already passed before, this is second time around for adoption, passes 7-0 (2 absent)
• Sewer bylaw adjustments   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/10l._web.pdf
• #tc0407 motion and second to move to second reading, this is a technical clean up re: Charles River Pollution control district, separate org - passes 7-0 (2 absent)

Town Administrator report

• That is the end of the Legislation for tonight, first aggregation report posted to Town page, we are saving money. #tc407 
• May 5th passport renewals will resume at municipal bldg.  Verizon is exercising option to remain in Franklin. $200k grant for affordable senior housing
• Continue the TA report: fire dept grant - $188k popup store grant for downtown for this summer partner with Wrentham, citizen discount one page guide posted to Town page (and shared) #tc0407  Town opening more likely after Memorial Day. Still under capacity limits ..
• Likely to look at some reservation system. #tc0407  Comments: Dean returned request to pay for vehicle as a "pilot" payment. Disappointed. Police reform had great conversation, girl up at high school also had good conversation. Scam attempt today. Stay vigilant.
• ... homeless feedback/info coming from Bissanti (from webinar he attended)
• #tc0407 thanks to Franklin fire for their burn session, quite informative. Thanks to the staff for the beginning of the capital program. A grueling task. Motion to adjourn, second, passes 7-0 (2 absent)
• That's all for tonight, catch you next time! #tc0407

DPW overview presentation doc
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/dpw_town_council_presentation_4_7_2021.pdf

 

Town of Franklin: DPW Overview 04/07/21 from Franklin Matters

one page of the DPW overview on Central Motors

Town of Franklin, MA: Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Weekly TOF COVID-19 Dashboard Update   https://t.co/HsotbG3nsp 

Shared from Twitter: https://t.co/V9akpefj8a

Town of Franklin, MA: Weekly ToF COVID-19 Dashboard

MA state news: "Want a cleaner, more prosperous, more equitable region? Upgrading commuter rail would unlock all those benefits.

"We’re fortunate in Greater Boston to have the foundation for a strong regional transit system — a subway system in the city, well-established bus lines, and an extensive commuter rail network covering everything from diverse midsize cities to tony suburbs.

The system yearns for a range of improvements, however, like more regular service outside rush hour so that it better serves residents who don’t work traditional 9 to 5 schedules. Here we’ll focus on one exciting model for change: the promise of transforming our commuter rail system into a “regional rail” system. That is to say, a more equitable, modern, fast, zero-emissions rail network that responds to how people live today and will live in the future."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)

https://www.bostonglobe.com/2021/04/09/opinion/key-better-boston-hiding-plain-sight/

This map, created by the advocacy group TransitMatters, envisions the first phase of improvements that could turn our existing commuter rail network into a “regional rail” system. It expands on a plan for upgrading commuter rail that the MBTA’s Fiscal and Management Control Board approved in 2019. TransitMatters’ executive director, Jarred Johnson, says regional rail would function more like a subway system does, with shorter trains that run more frequently and at higher speeds. Some stations and tracks would need to be added.TRANSITMATTERS

FTC Consumer Alerts: Give yourself some credit (reports)

Give yourself some credit (reports) by Emily Wu, Attorney, Federal Trade Commission One important back-to-basics step you can take this Financial Literacy Month (or anytime) is checking your credit report.  Read more > https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2021/04/give-yourself-some-credit-reports?utm_source=govdelivery

Franklin's Event Outlook: Apr 9 - Apr 15, 2021

A Winter Farmers Market weekend, another Master Class on Monday and virtual events to fund raise for the Walk of Tears or to enjoy some of the performing arts sprinkle the calendar for this outlook

 

Friday, April 9
12:00pm -  Franklin & KP SADD: Virtual Walk of Tears (5k Run/Walk)
3:00pm -  Electric Youth 2021 (Video Stream on Demand)
6:00pm -  Broadway in Franklin (Video on Demand)
 

Saturday, April 10
10:00am -  Winter Farmers Market
12:00pm -  Franklin & KP SADD: Virtual Walk of Tears (5k Run/Walk)
3:00pm -  Electric Youth 2021 (Video Stream on Demand)
6:00pm -  Broadway in Franklin (Video on Demand)
 

Sunday, April 11
12:00pm -  Franklin & KP SADD: Virtual Walk of Tears (5k Run/Walk)
3:00pm -  Electric Youth 2021 (Video Stream on Demand)
6:00pm -  Broadway in Franklin (Video on Demand)
 

Monday, April 12
12:00pm -  Franklin & KP SADD: Virtual Walk of Tears (5k Run/Walk)
3:00pm -  Electric Youth 2021 (Video Stream on Demand)
6:00pm -  Broadway in Franklin (Video on Demand)
7:30pm -  MasterClass: Creativity Curator
 

Tuesday, April 13
9:00am -  wfpr.fm: Pamela Hines – Jazz Journey
12:00pm -  wfpr.fm: Pamela Hines – Jazz Journey
12:00pm -  Franklin & KP SADD: Virtual Walk of Tears (5k Run/Walk)
3:00pm -  Electric Youth 2021 (Video Stream on Demand)
6:00pm -  wfpr.fm: Pamela Hines – Jazz Journey
6:00pm -  Broadway in Franklin (Video on Demand)
 

Wednesday, April 14
10:00am -  wfpr.fm: "The Wonderful World of Wine" – Mark/ Kim
12:00pm -  Franklin & KP SADD: Virtual Walk of Tears (5k Run/Walk)
1:00pm -  wfpr.fm: "The Wonderful World of Wine" – Mark/Kim
3:00pm -  Electric Youth 2021 (Video Stream on Demand)
6:00pm -  Broadway in Franklin (Video on Demand)
7:00pm -  wfpr.fm: "The Wonderful World of Wine" – Mark/Kim
7:30pm -  Let’s Laugh Today is Free on ZOOM!
 

Thursday, April 15
10:00am -  wfpr.fm: "Frank’s Music" – Frank Falvey
11:00am -  wfpr.fm: "Talkin’ the Blues" – Jim/Todd
12:00pm -  Franklin & KP SADD: Virtual Walk of Tears (5k Run/Walk)
1:00pm -  wfpr.fm: "Frank’s Music" – Frank Falvey
2:00pm -  wfpr.fm: "Talkin’ the Blues" – Jim/Todd
3:00pm -  Electric Youth 2021 (Video Stream on Demand)
6:00pm -  Broadway in Franklin (Video on Demand)
7:00pm -  350 Mass Greater Franklin Node
7:00pm -  wfpr.fm: "Frank’s Music" – Frank Falvey
8:00pm -  wfpr.fm: "Talkin' the Blues!" - Jim/Todd 

 

Find the full calendar  https://www.franklinmatters.org/p/blog-page.html

If you have an event to add to the calendar, you can use the form to submit it for publication:  https://forms.gle/oPdi8X3ZbHHyrHzo6

The Town meeting calendar is found  https://www.franklinma.gov/calendar

The School district meeting calendar is found   https://www.franklinps.net/calendar-by-event-type/26

 

Community Calendar

 

Town of Franklin, MA: Joint Budget SubCommittee Mtg - Apr 12, 2021

Joint Budget Subcommittee Meeting

(Town Council, School Committee, Finance Committee)

April 12, 2021 = 5:30 PM

 

Agenda

1.FY22 Budget Discussion 

- The Joint Budget Subcommittee is made up of members of the Town Council,School Committee and Finance Committee.

 

 

Please find the agenda and links for the upcoming Joint Budget Subcommittee Meeting posted here  https://t.co/79NJ4026zD  

 

Shared from Twitter: https://t.co/DmQvi5Y4nW

 

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

School budget page =  https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-district-budget

 

 Joint Budget SubCommittee Mtg - Apr 12, 2021

FHS volleyball tops Attleboro 3-0 on Thursday

From HockomockSports.com we share the FHS sports results: 

Volleyball = Attleboro, 0 @ Franklin, 3 – Final 

– Franklin shined from the service line and went on to sweep the visiting Bombardiers, 3-0 (25-11, 25-11, 25-8). The Panthers recorded 23 aces as a team with junior Cailyn Mackintosh leading the way with eight aces. Meghan Linkkila and Taylor Lacerda each added six aces and Ally Bonnet-Eymard added three aces to go along with nine kills. Lindsey Tarantola (four kills) and Emma Chase (three kills) both played well at the net for the hosts. 

 

For other results around the Hockomock League

https://hockomocksports.com/thursdays-schedule-scoreboard-04-08-21/

 

FHS volleyball tops Attleboro 3-0 on Thursday

  

FHS Unified Sports basketball team registers win over Milford

"Congratulations to our White team for their win over Milford Yesterday.  It was a team effort with everyone contributing!" https://t.co/W1PguhG4EF

Shared from Twitter: https://twitter.com/FranklinUnified/status/1380194733222469637

FHS Unified Sports basketball team registers win over Milford

Panther TV: Panther News Apr 8, 2021

We're all excited for our full reopening on Monday!!! This show has all you need to know to make your first day back a good one. @FHSPantherbook @FranklinPSNews @FranklinHS 

https://t.co/O8joVqUrIV via @YouTube

Shared from Twitter:  https://twitter.com/fhspanthertv/status/1380195919656796160

Town of Franklin, MA: Business Guide

The Town of Franklin is pleased to share our new Business Guide!  This online resource is designed to introduce potential business owners to the process here in Franklin and provide important contacts, links, and guidance.

Find it on our website here: https://t.co/g2sCOSIIhI  

Shared from Twitter:https://t.co/oSuudUZR5X

Town of Franklin, MA: Business Guide

FM #505 - Community Preservation Committee - 04/06/21 (audio)

FM #505 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 505 in the series. 

This session of the radio show shares the Community Preservation Committee meeting held on Tuesday, April 6, 2021.

The meeting was conducted in a hybrid format: all but one of the Committee members, Town Administrator and key personnel, were in the Council Chambers; the public and one committee member were remote via conference bridge, all to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

Links to the meeting agenda and associated documents are included in the show notes. The recording runs about 75 minutes, so let’s listen to the Community Preservation Committee meeting.  

Audio file -> https://player.captivate.fm/episode/93152907-dfe4-4c97-9f6d-90b5d25af4e1

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Community Preservation Committee agenda  
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/agendas/cpc_agenda_4-6-2021_final.pdf 

Open Space presentation
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/open_space_presentation_update_4-6-2021.pdf

My notes captured during the meeting 
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/04/recap-community-preservation-committee.html  

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

We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm). 

This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.

How can you help?

• If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors
• If you don't like something here, please let me know

Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.

For additional information, please visit   Franklinmatters.org/  or www.franklin.news/

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 #505 - Community Preservation Committee - 04/06/21 (audio)

Recap-Economic Development SubComm-Mtg - 04/07/21 - Ladybug trail being planned, business guide released

Quick Recap:

• Meeting opens with a presentation on the Ladybug Trail being planned for downtown Franklin. Slides included in notes below. Photos captured during the presentation shared as well
• The Business Guide is now released. A flowchart to follow for starting a business and what approvals are required is a key development since the draft was shared earlier.
• Discussion o the overall marketing strategy and key branding elements is desired but the meeting ran out of time to get into.
  

 

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As with most meetings in this pandemic period, I took my notes via Twitter during the meeting reporting in real-time via the virtual session.  

 

Photos captured during the meeting and shared via Twitter can be found in one album:  https://photos.app.goo.gl/7fHqmLnAmD3MxrW98

The Twitter hashtag can be found online  #edc0407
https://twitter.com/search?q=%23edc0407&src=typeahead_click

• Real time reporting underway for the Economic Development subcommittee meeting https://www.franklinma.gov/economic-development-subcommittee/agenda/edc-agenda-25  #edc0407
• Ladybug trail up first, Lisa Piana of the Downtown Partnership #edc0407 to present after brief intro by Chair Melanie Hamblen
• The ladybug trail will reappear in downtown Franklin #edc0407
• The ladybugs first appeared in 2014. #edc0407
• Slides to be shared later but some key ones are captured here #edc0407
• Concept of trail and sidewalk marking still in development. Would use the map and QR codes to trigger the audio with information #edc0407
• Consensus among EDC members to proceed; mural design being worked with the artists and building owners, they will be family friendly and non controversial. #edc0407
• Next up, business guide close to 'final' #edc0407 reviewing changes since the draft was shared in this meeting previously now includes a flow chart to follow
• Also updated to include the food truck as well as the farmers market #edc0407 should help the jumping around town hall that occurs today and should be alleviated using this going forward.
• Can add a zoning map link to the guide so they would have the info available. Development is separate and much more detailed, this is for the more frequent use if opening a business, building a development would require more and much is on the Town pages #edc0407
• Discussion on a marketing strategy to include brand elements, logo, fonts, tag line to use as a common and consistent presentation if the town to the world up for future
• #edc0407 motion to adjourn, second, passes 4-0 via roll call
• Town Council meeting coming up at 7

FDP Ladybug Trail presentation doc:  https://www.slideshare.net/shersteve/franklin-downtown-partnership-planning-ladybug-trail

Business Guide -> https://www.canva.com/design/DAEN5lnYNIY/xubMHMzbUK7uF--x0mx6Og/view

 

Franklin Downtown Partnership planning Ladybug Trail from Franklin Matters

 

 

Ladybug trail being planned

Town of Franklin: Citizen Discounts and Exemptions Guide

Citizen Discounts and Exemptions Guide

The Town of Franklin has created an online resource guide for local and state government assistance programs, including information about the Senior Circuit Breaker and a tax credit estimation worksheet. Please find it posted on our website at https://www.franklinma.gov/administrator/pages/citizen-discounts-exemptions

Download the 4 page PDF here   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/local_state_assistance_programs_4_1.pdf

Shared from https://www.franklinma.gov/home/news/citizen-discounts-and-exemptions-guide

Town of Franklin: Citizen Discounts and Exemptions Guide

Town of Franklin, MA: Quarterly Aggregation Report

"The ToF's Quarterly Aggregation Report provides a summary of the Nov & Dec electrical savings vs National Grid rates. Franklin chose a 100% green product that supports renewable energy, with 100% of the power supply being offset by National Wind Renewable Energy Certificates. " https://t.co/saIwgNIsmO

 

"This report has been prepared by Colonial Power Group with information/data being provided by the Competitive Supplier and National Grid. The purpose of the report is to provide information about the Town of Franklin's Community Choice Power Supply Program, which currently provides competitive power supply to approximately 9,850 customers in the Town. The data provided by the Competitive Supplier is not available until three months after the month it is used. For example, power is Used in January, Invoiced in February, Paid in March and Reported in April" 

Read the full report on the Town of Franklin page:   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/franklin_quarterly_aggregation_report-q4_2020.pdf

By my calculations, for the simple act of not opting out, Franklin residential rate payers saved approx. $12 in Nov and $11 in Dec 2020. Not bad at all. Even if there is a more conservative savings estimate of $10/month, that works out to be $1200/year for green (wind) electricity.

(Understanding oi course, that some residential electric user have existing contracts from which they could not change. Once those agreements reach their end of life, the option to opt in will still be available.)

Town of Franklin, MA: Quarterly Aggregation Report113602

Tri-County RVTHS Juniors Assisting Elders in Preparation for their CNA Certification

Tri-Country RVTHS Juniors were excited to get back out and start working in a clinical setting this February. After nearly a year of being unable to go into a clinical setting due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, Juniors are eager and excited to help the residents at the Timothy Daniel's House in Holliston. 

"Our students missed those meaningful connections they make with the residents," says Kylie Geikie, Health Careers instructor. Students help the thirty long-term care patients with activities such as feeding, bathing/showering, transferring with and without a Hoyer lift, ambulation, incontinence care, personal companionship, and taking vitals. The care they provide for these residents helps ease the facilities workers' burden and allows the students to earn the hours needed for their CNA Certification.

The students have risen to the challenge of COVID-19, used their knowledge of infectious diseases and infection control practices to care for the most vulnerable population. Typically, the Tri-County students would do their clinical hours throughout the year in preparation for a cooperative education (Co-op) position in their senior year; however, this year, students were restricted by the visitation limitations set forth by facilities. Tri-County is the only school in the radius currently participating in on-site clinical hours.

Tri-County students usually work at a long-term facility which houses approximately 100 long-term care patients, and have been enjoying the smaller, more intimate setting of the Timothy Daniel's House. Working with fewer patients has allowed the students to spend more time with each resident and build a relationship. 

“I wish I could sit and talk to each resident for an hour,” said one of the students. After two weeks in the hospital, one of the residents was treated to a "spa day" by two students, including a shower, hair curling, and nails. "The level of compassion, empathy, and passion our students bring to each day of the clinical is inspiring," commented Geikie.

 

Tri-County RVTHS Juniors Assisting Elders in Preparation for their CNA Certification

Raised garden beds from VFJrenovations again this year

My father and I are building raised garden beds again this year with the profits going to the Franklin Food Pantry. 

We are only able to make about 35 planters this year and have 2 design options. We've written a letter on our website and was hoping you might be able to publish it on Franklin Matters for us?

Here's the link: https://www.vfjrenovations.com/empower-with-gardening-initiative 

Best,

Jessi

--

Thank you,

Vinny Fanuele & Jessi Fanuele

www.VFJrenovations.com

617.510.4006 (Vinny)

617.448.7237 (Jessi)

Listen to the audio interview we conducted last year

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/05/fm-261-vfj-renovations-empowering.html

my Raised garden bed as initially set up last year

Pantherbook: "Safety In School" and "Everything You Need to Know"

Via Pantherbook, two articles on the return of students to FHS for in person learning as of April 12, 2021

"You may not notice many differences when you arrive at school on April 12, except for one particular detail – everyone is closer.  Seeing as there will be more students in the building, people will be able to stay three feet apart instead of six feet apart. The school is also exploring making use of alternate areas for classrooms such as lecture halls and the library. 

The only area where the six feet of separation will remain is in the cafeteria. Students are eating and not wearing masks, which poses a greater risk to safety. However, because there are more students in the building, the school must explore alternative seating options. Mr. Hanna mentioned the introduction of outdoor eating, just in time for the warmer weather. To begin, tents will most likely be placed in the courtyard for students to lunch under; the gym will also be utilized. Later in the year, there may be a half-day model of school where students leave before eating lunch. Alternatively, although this is an unlikely option, students may eat outside with personal picnic blankets."

Continue reading the article online

https://franklinpanthers.us/uncategorized/2021/04/07/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-full-in-person-return-to-school/ 

As April 12 draws closer, students are preparing for their return to school at almost full capacity for the first time in more than a year. Covid-19 has made it difficult for teenagers to have a “regular” high school experience, and getting the majority of students back into the building will no doubt nurture normal routines once more.

There is something to be said about rising safety concerns, however. With the emergence of a new 3-feet distance rule, pool testing, and stricter health protocols, day-to-day school life will look much different from the smaller cohorts from the beginning of the year. While in-person classrooms are not yet filled, these new guidelines are a quite important step on the journey towards a Covid-free education experience.

Continue reading the article online
https://franklinpanthers.us/top-stories/2021/04/06/safety-in-school/

These rows of desks will soon be full of students! - photo by Sophia Francisco