Monday, May 24, 2021

FM #547 - Finance Committee Meeting - 05/19/21 (audio)

 FM #547 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 547 in the series. 


This session of the radio show shares the Finance Committee meeting held Wednesday, May 19, 2021


The meeting was conducted in a hybrid format: all of the Finance Committee members were in the Council Chambers along with the Town Administrator and other town personnel; the public participated via conference bridge, all to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.


Links to the key topics covered here are included in the show notes. The recording runs about 45 minutes, so let’s listen to the Finance Committee meeting held Wednesday, May 19. Audio file = https://player.captivate.fm/episode/283f0265-082d-43a9-b960-80d825899321



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Meeting agenda -> 

https://franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/5-19-21_fincom_agenda.pdf


Recap of the meeting ->

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/05/recap-finance-committee-further.html 


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We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial.  


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!

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You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"


FM #547 - Finance Committee Meeting - 05/19/21 (audio)
FM #547 - Finance Committee Meeting - 05/19/21 (audio)



Friendly reminder: What not to flush

What Not To Flush
The Franklin Sewer Division has experienced increased issues with sewer backups due to non-flushable items in the sewer system.  When flushed down the toilet, items such as baby wipes, hand wipes, floor wipes, rags, etc. often get stuck in our sewage pumps, which can damage the pumps and potentially cause sewer backups.  In addition to the costly pump repairs, sewer backups can result in damage to nearby homes and businesses and can have environmental impacts if the sewage is discharged into the environment.

Please DO NOT FLUSH:
  • Paper towels, disposable wipes, washcloths and rags
  • Synthetic materials such as plastic, which do not decompose or dissolve
  • Feminine products
  • Cotton balls
  • Diapers and baby wipes
  • Unused Medications
  • Syringes
  • Fats, Oil and Grease 
We thank you for your help in keeping our sewer system running smoothly!!

Paper towels, disposable wipes, washcloths and rags are becoming more and more of a problem for sewer systems with the increase in "disposable" wipes.  These wipes may be disposable but that does not make them flushable!  Please do not flush swiffer wipes, baby wipes, diapers, disposable toilet bowl cleaners or any other non-toilet paper product.  These items cause major problems in our sewer pumps and we are not alone.  As discussed in a USA Today article tilted "Wipes in the Pipes Snarling Sewers" (http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2013/07/16/wipes-pollution/2522919/, this issue is is affecting sewer systems across the country.  So please do your part and don't flush wipes!

Fats, Oil and Grease are some of the primary causes of blockages in sanitary sewer collection systems. Too often grease is washed into the plumbing system usually through the kitchen sink. When grease cools it lines the pipes, decreasing the opening until the pipe blocks up completely and sewage backs up into homes, businesses or manholes.  Do not pour grease down the drain. Instead, pour it into a disposable container, let it cool, and dispose of it in the trash.  The City of London was recently in the news for a 15 ton grease ball stuck in their sewer system - to learn  more check out this article from the Water Environment Federation magazine.

Unused Medications are often disposed of in the toilet, but it is important to remember that treated wastewater eventually ends up in our rivers and streams.  A 2002 USGS study found that 80% of streams in the U.S. have measurable concentrations of prescription drugs.  To help reduce our impact on the environment, please dispose of unused prescription medications properly.  Ask your pharmacy if they have a take-back program, or dispose of unused medications in the Take-Back Container at the Franklin Police Department located at 911 Panther Way.

Syringes can be safely disposed of at the Franklin Police Department, 911 Panther Way. Syringes will not be accepted unless they are in an approved sharps container.  

If you own a business here in Franklin, please print and post our What Not to Flush Flyer https://www.franklinma.gov/public-works/files/what-not-flush-flyer.

Want to learn more about how sewage is treated?  Franklin's sewage is treated at the Charles River Pollution Control District in Medway.  Click here for a general overview of how the treatment system works.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP!

Shared from the Town of Franklin page

Download the "What not to Flush" flyer:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GJrzqnr0t8Nuv-LzOBmHzucwKiGVAWSn/view?usp=sharing

 

Waltham is looking for donated Prom Dresses

Via Lisa Buccella <lisabill5@comcast.net>
Sharing this post from a friend who is a teacher in Waltham:

************************************************************
Prom is happening in Waltham this year, but because it was so uncertain, all of the school's usual donation events didn't happen this year so it's a bit of a scramble. But as always there are some awesome teachers looking to make things happen!
So if you have a recently worn prom dress (under 5 years old and no bridesmaid dresses) that you could donate to Waltham High we definitely have some girls who could use them.
**********************************************************
She told me the "boutique" will be set up at school on Tuesday so the girls can "shop". They are looking for floor length dresses only -
If you have any dresses, let me know and I can make sure they get to her by Tuesday morning so they can set it all up.
My heart to all the students and especially the ones from the Class of 2020 and 2021! They can all add perseverance to their resumes!

Ticks, in abundance

"A late-summer drought virtually eliminated ticks in parts of New England but they’re back with a vengeance this spring.

Dog ticks, which do not carry Lyme disease like deer ticks do, have been especially active since early spring in Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont.

And people who've been getting outdoors because of the pandemic are discovering the arachnids on themselves and on pets.

“People are outdoors a lot more because of COVID so we’ve all discovered this newfound love relationship with nature, which is really cool and I’m really happy about. So there’s just a lot more chances for ... human interactions with ticks,” said Patti Casey, environmental surveillance program manager for the Vermont Agency of Agriculture."
Continue reading the article online  (subscription may be required)


Nick Gaspar fund raising apparel

"Nick Gaspar is an 8th grade student at the Horace Mann Middle School in Franklin who is passionate about sports, especially basketball and lacrosse. Nick was recently diagnosed with a brain tumor and he and his family need all of the support that we can give right now.
We've launched an online store in support of Nick - all of the profits of which will go supporting Nick and his family. We ask that you consider making a purchase and sharing this post to help support Nick's fight! #1NickStrong18 "
The Custom Apparel link for #1NickStrong18 apparel


Similar update from Franklin Police Twitter:   https://twitter.com/franklinpolice/status/1395395250995318785


Nick Gaspar fund raising apparel
Nick Gaspar fund raising apparel


Sunday, May 23, 2021

Franklin, MA: School Committee - Meeting Agenda - May 25, 2021

Franklin School Committee
May 25, 2021 - 7:00 PM


Call to Order 
Pledge of Allegiance 
Moment of Silence

I. Routine Business
A. Review of Agenda
B. Citizen’s Comments
In the spirit of open communication, “the Committee will hold a public participation segment (also called Citizen’s Comments) about matters not related to an agenda item at the beginning of each regular School Committee meeting. The Committee will listen to, but not respond to any comment made…. A Committee member may add an agenda item to a future meeting as a result of a citizen comment…. The Committee will hear public comments related to an agenda item when the Chair deems appropriate during the Committee meeting. Topics for discussion during the meeting must be limited to those items listed on the Committee meeting agenda for that evening…. ” - from Policy BEDH
C. FHS Student Representative Comments
D. Superintendent’s Report

II. Guests/Presentations
A. Retiree Recognition

III. Discussion/Action Items
A. Policy – 2nd Reading / Adoption
I recommend adoption of the following policies as discussed:
1. IJNDB - Acceptable Use Policy
2. IJNDB-E1 - Acceptable Use Student Agreement Grades 6-12
3. IJNDB-E2 - Acceptable Use Student Agreement Grades K-5

B. Policy Elimination
I recommend elimination of Policy GBAC - Policy for Conditions for Employment as discussed.

IV. Discussion Only Items
A. Reopening School Status Update – May 21, 2020-2021

V. Information Matters
A. School Committee Sub-Committee Reports (e.g. Ad Hoc Supt. Evaluation, Budget, Community Relations/Public Schools Advocacy, Policy, Transportation)
B. School Committee Liaison Reports (e.g. Joint PCC, Substance Abuse Task Force, School Wellness Advisory Council, Franklin Racial & Social Justice Task Force)

VI. New Business
A. To discuss any future agenda items

VII. Consent Agenda
A. Approval of Minutes
I recommend approval of the minutes for your May 11, 2021 meeting as detailed.
B. Transfers
I recommend approval of the budget transfers as detailed.
C. Scholarship
I recommend acceptance of a check for $2,500.00 from Sheila Lima for a scholarship as detailed.
D. JFK Gift
I recommend acceptance of 2 checks totaling $3,590.44 from the JFK PCC as detailed:
$1070,.80 - Supplemental Supplies
$2,519.64 - Supplemental Supplies
E. Districtwide Gift
I recommend acceptance of a check for $5,000.00 from the Norfolk County District Attorney for in-house enrichment as detailed.
F. JFK Donation
I recommend acceptance of the donation of Table Talk Pies, valued at $63.00 for the JFK 4th graders as detailed.

VIII. Payment of Bills Dr. Bergen

IX. Payroll Atty. Pond-Pfeffer

X. Executive Session
A. Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30A §21(a)(2) to conduct strategy session in preparation for negotiations with nonunion personnel.
B. Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(3) to discuss strategy with respect to litigation as an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the litigating position of the public body and the chair so declares.

XI. Adjournment

The agenda doc includes connection info

The meeting packet folder containing the documents released for this session

School Committee - Meeting Agenda - May 25, 2021
School Committee - Meeting Agenda - May 25, 2021

Pantherbook Student Profiles: Sydney Hawkins, Emma Myers

 

"Sydney Hawkins can be described in one word: dedicated. 

Sydney is a senior at FHS and has recently committed to MIT. She will be studying biological engineering and playing lacrosse. 

Pantherbook reached out to Sydney to learn more about this impressive commitment. "

Continue reading about Sydney


"When Emma Myers was 7, she told her mom she wanted to be an artist. Ten years later, she’s stuck to that, having recently committed to Lesley University to major in Fine Arts and minor in Art Therapy.

Emma is excited to explore the career opportunities an art degree will offer her. “I want to be an art teacher, I want to be an art therapist, I want to be a tattoo artist on the side…” she says. “And of course I want to freelance so I can continue creating my art.”

Emma works in most art forms excluding clay, but her favorite mediums are charcoal or pen and ink drawings. "
Continue reading about Emma


Ellis Paul Virtual Festival starts Sunday, May 23, 2021


Ellis Paul Traveling Medicine Show Virtual Festival
View this email in your browser
Ellis Paul Virtual Festival
Ellis Paul Traveling Medicine Show Festival
Starts Sunday May 23
Fabulous performers putting on a virtual festival including many Circle of Friends favorites. See the image above for the lineup.  Purchase a ticket and you can re-watch until June 21st!
https://www.tribalmischief.com/traveling-medicine-show-festival
The Circle of Friends Coffeehouse is a non-profit organization affiliated with Franklin's First Universalist Society.  Please visit http://www.circlefolk.org/  for more information.
Circle of Friends Coffeehouse · First Universalist Society · 262 Chestnut St · Franklin, MA 02038 · USA

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The Introduction to the **2021 Town of Franklin - Housing Production Plan - Public Review Draft**


"A Housing Production Plan (HPP) is a community's proactive strategy for planning and developing affordable housing. The Plan includes strategies that a community uses to enable it to meet its affordable housing needs in a manner consistent with MGL Chapter 40B and related Massachusetts Department of Housing & Community Development (DHCD) regulations.

HPP regulations became effective in 2008 when the DHCD promulgated 760 CMR 56.00, Comprehensive Permit; Low or Moderate Income Housing. Regulation that pertain specifically to the development of a Housing Production Plan is contained in 760 CMR 56.03(4). DHCD has developed Guidelines (updated October 2020) to assist Massachusetts communities with HPP development; the Guidelines are included as Attachment A. Additional HPP related information, including links to Chapter 40B and 760 CMR 56, are available at www.mass.gov/dhcd.

M.G.L. Chapter 40B requires that each Massachusetts town and city have a minimum of 10% of its total year-round housing units as affordable housing. The HPP’s most important purpose is to develop goals and strategies that will result in the community reaching the 10% Statutory Minimum set forth in 760 CMR 56.03(3)(a).

DHCD uses the Subsidized Housing Inventory (SHI) to measure a community's stock of low-or moderate- income housing for the purposes of M.G.L. Chapter 40B. A community’s HPP must contain a numerical goal for annual housing production that will increase the “number of SHI Eligible Housing units by at least 0.50% of its total units (as determined in accordance with 760 CMR 56.03(3)(a)) during every calendar year included in the HPP, until the overall percentage exceeds the Statutory Minimum”.

If a community has a DHCD approved HPP and is granted certification of compliance with the plan by DHCD, a decision by the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) relative to a comprehensive permit application will be deemed "consistent with local needs" under MGL Chapter 40B. "Consistent with local needs" means the ZBA's decision will be upheld by the State’s Housing Appeals Committee.

According to the DHCD web page, as of December 21, 2020, 11.96% of the Town of Franklin’s total year- round housing units are on the Chapter 40B Subsidized Housing Inventory. Therefore, the Town of Franklin is in compliance with Chapter 40 B, and is not immediately under pressure to increase the number of affordable units on its SHI.

However, the Town of Franklin’s total year-round housing units are based on the 2010 U.S. Census, and hundreds of housing units have been permitted and constructed over the last 11 years. According to Town estimates, the Town of Franklin will likely still have over 10% affordable units on its SHI, but the percent will likely be much lower than the 12% mentioned above. Once the Town receives its 2020 Census data this HPP will be updated and if necessary the updated plan will be resubmitted to DHCD for review and re-approval.

Implementing the goals and strategies outlined in this HPP will assure the Town of Franklin maintains at least 10% affordable units on its SHI, but it will also help to make progress in facilitating the development of a diverse housing supply for Franklin’s low and moderate income residents. In addition, the research, documentation and strategies developed during the HPP process will be utilized in the near future during the Town of Franklin’s Master Plan update process."

Find the full copy of the Housing Production Plan

Info on the public comment period

The Introduction to the **2021 Town of Franklin - Housing Production Plan - Public Review Draft**
The Introduction to the **2021 Town of Franklin - Housing Production Plan - Public Review Draft**


P.A.W.S. Event Sunday! May 23, 2021



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What do a Police Officer, State Representative, and Child Psychiatrist all have in common? They want to talk with YOU!

PREVENTION. ADVOCACY. WELLNESS. SUPPORT.

JOIN US TOMORROW: MAY 23, 2021 for a fantastic day of speakers including:

Norfolk Police Sergeant Michelle Palladini

State Representative Jeffrey Roy

Child Psychiatrist Dr. Nicole Christian-Brathwaite, MD

Danny Lagarce, peer in recovery

Reverend Tiffany Spigarolo

Emma Kucich, SAFE Coalition

Emilee Purdy, New Hope Community Liaison

All attendees will be mailed a P.A.W.S. l SAFE Coalition swag bag!

SIGN UP HERE
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe4AZj39OLs9iW_-WGNngj_ecPKx_savIBctv1QNIY4EdT3Jg/viewform
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CDC Reports: masks and ventilation improved school COVID-19 case load; care in handling backyard poultry

 

"Schools in Georgia that required teachers and staff to wear masks and improved ventilation reported fewer COVID-19 cases, according to a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) study released on Friday.

The research, conducted by the CDC and the Georgia Department of Public Health, determined that COVID-19 incidence was 37 percent lower in schools that mandated masks for teachers and staff. Schools that implemented at least one ventilation strategy saw a 39 percent reduction in coronavirus cases among students and staff.

The ventilation improvements ranged from dilution methods, which refer to running fans and keeping doors and windows open, to filtration with or without purification. Schools that used dilution methods saw 35 percent less COVID-19 incidence, and others that used dilution and filtration methods together saw 48 percent fewer cases."

Continue reading the article online


"The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued an advisory on Thursday warning people against getting too close to backyard poultry, citing concerns that the chickens may be spreading salmonella.

In an investigation notice, the CDC noted that backyard poultry owners should take precautionary measures when handling their animals after 163 confirmed cases of salmonella were reported in 43 states.

"Don’t kiss or snuggle backyard poultry, and don’t eat or drink around them," the CDC wrote. "This can spread Salmonella germs to your mouth and make you sick."
Continue reading the article online

 

"Where's The Toast?" Memory Cafe' with Tom Madden Monday, May 24 - 2 PM

Please Join us on Monday, May 24 at 2 PM as Tom Madden entertains us with songs from the 50's.  Tom has been performing on vocals, keyboard, trombone and guitar and entertaining people for over 30 years.  

This months Memory Cafe' is generously sponsored by Salmon at Medway.  Please share this link with others who would enjoy an hour of music, socialization and entertainment. 

If you would like a sneak preview at Tom's music you can go to his page with this link: http://www.tommaddenmusic.com/   

We look forward to seeing you on Monday!

Memory Cafe' with Tom Madden Monday, May 24
Memory Cafe' with Tom Madden Monday, May 24


Click below to join our Memory Cafe Monday May 24th at 2pm

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86744691359?pwd=b1pqRlczU2ZyZ29RT3IzY1B6d2VJQT09

Meeting ID: 867 4469 1359
Passcode: 510923


One tap mobile
+13126266799,,86744691359#,,,,*510923# US (Chicago)
+16465588656,,86744691359#,,,,*510923# US (New York)


Meeting ID: 867 4469 1359
Passcode: 510923
Find your local number: https://us06web.zoom.us/u/kdK4piGK8M


--
Ariel Doggett

Virtual Program Coordinator
Respite Coordinator
Supportive Day Coordinator


"We rise by lifting others" - Robert Ingersoll
There is no act of kindness too small

The Franklin Food Pantry is hiring a Client Services Coordinator

"Are you passionate about people and the community? The Franklin Food Pantry is looking for a Client Services Coordinator to join our team. Our vision is to build a community in which everyone in need has an improved quality of life through nutritious food and supportive resources. We are looking for a collaborative, team player who believes in our vision is adaptable and has a singular client focus.

Reporting to the Director of Strategic Initiatives, the Client Services Coordinator is responsible for providing outstanding service to our clients while leading a shift of volunteers during pantry operations. This position is the primary point of contact for all volunteers and clients at the Pantry and exemplifies a positive attitude at all times fostering a welcoming, supportive environment for clients, volunteers, donors and co-workers.

This is a part time, 20 hour per week position."



hiring a Client Services Coordinator
hiring a Client Services Coordinator




Washington Post: "Explaining HIPAA: No, it doesn't ban questions about your vaccination status"

"As the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues to relax safety measures for people who are fully vaccinated against the coronavirus and the country begins to reopen, many employers, businesses, families and friend groups are finding themselves in the at-times uncomfortable position of having to ask about others’ vaccination statuses."
"HIPAA, also known as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, and its subsequently added Privacy Rule include provisions to protect a person’s identifying health information from being shared without their knowledge or consent. The law, though, only applies to specific health-related entities, such as insurance providers, health-care clearinghouses, health-care providers and their business associates."
Shared from The Washington Post:  Continue reading the article online  (subscription may be required)   https://twitter.com/washingtonpost/status/1396178093463805952

Saturday, May 22, 2021

Public Hearing - 2021 Draft Housing Production Plan - June 2

Public Hearing - 2021 Draft Housing Production Plan

The Franklin Municipal Affordable Housing Trust will hold a Public Hearing on Wednesday, June 2 at 6:30 PM via the ” Zoom” platform to present the highlights of the Town’s 2021 Draft Housing Production Plan. Residents can visit the Town Website (franklinma.gov) and click on the Town Calendar for up to
date information on how to access the meeting. Residents can access the document at the Department of Planning and Community Development’s web site: www.franklinma.gov/planning-communitydevelopment
Feedback from the general public is a critical component of the planning process. Written comments should be forwarded to the Department of Planning & Community Development, Housing Development Plan Comments, 355 East Central Street, Franklin, MA 02038-1352, or send by email to
planning@franklinma.gov
The Public Comment period runs until 6/25/2021. If you have any questions,
please call 508-520-4907.
Submitted by,
Maxine Kinhart
Department of Housing & Community Development


Shared from the Town of Franklin page ->    https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/notice_of_public_hearing_-_housing_production_plan.pdf

Direct link to plan ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/franklin_housing_production_plan_-_may_2021_public_draft.pdf

or view/download a copy of the plan here ->   https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ZrXMOVhhJyr8azMPeftcqIuoHRo7jmKR/view



Public Hearing - 2021 Draft Housing Production Plan - June 2
Public Hearing - 2021 Draft Housing Production Plan - June 2


Head's up for Franklin Veterans - Memorial Day & ArtWALK

We are having a Memorial Day program on the Common on Monday, May 31 at noon after brief memorial ceremonies at Dean College, Union Street and St. Mary's Cemeteries.  All are invited to the program at noon.
There will not be a Memorial Day breakfast or parade this year.

We are still looking for a few more volunteers to help us at the monuments on the Town Common at the ARTWALK on Fri & Sat. (Jun 11-12) (We will provide volunteers with info about each monument so they are able to answer visitors' questions.) Interested folks can sign up by calling our office.

Thank you!

Debra Martin
Franklin Veterans Services
10 Daniel McCahill Street
Franklin, MA 02038
T: 508.613.1315

Head's up for Franklin Veterans - Memorial Day & ArtWALK
Head's up for Franklin Veterans - Memorial Day & ArtWALK 


FHS boys lacrosse senior night

"What a great senior night for the boys @Franklin_Lax! Congrats on the win! Looking at that beam of light coming down on the team photo, might be greater things ahead for this crew"

Shared from Twitter: https://twitter.com/FHSlax_boosters/status/1395920660229234690

No score provided for either girls or boys games on Friday. Other results around the Hockomock League can be found https://hockomocksports.com/fridays-schedule-scoreboard-05-21-21/

FHS boys lacrosse
FHS boys lacrosse senior night

 

Franklin High School: Car Parade Schedule for June 5, 2021

FranklinHighSchool (@FranklinHS) tweeted on Fri, May 21, 2021:
What are you doing on Saturday, June 5th at 11am? 
Coming out to celebrate the Senior class we hope!! 
@FranklinPSNews @FranklinMatters #PantherPride https://t.co/NY8LcHRrwJ

Shared from Twitter: https://twitter.com/FranklinHS/status/1395818442784223235

Car Parade Schedule for June 5, 2021
Car Parade Schedule for June 5, 2021


Area Swimmers Post Personal Bests at Sunkissed Championship Meet

HAY Lightning is the name of the longstanding team of swimmers hosted by the Hockomock Area YMCA, which practices at pools housed at the Foxboro, Franklin and North Attleboro YMCAs. For this team of athletes ranging in age from 6-18, the goal of swimming at the Sunkissed Invitational swim meet every March or April has become a highly anticipated event.
 
If going to Nationals is one of a swimmer's goals for the season, then the swimmer must make the commitment to attend practices and work hard. Additionally, swimmers must give themselves every opportunity, over the course of the season, to swim the events in which they are trying to qualify.

During the pandemic this past year, we are proud to say that members of the YMCA team have continued to swim and improve their skills, including competing in 12 swim meets between September and March.
HAY Lightning
HAY Lightning


The Nationals meet, designed in accordance with USA Swimming guidelines, gives the opportunity to compete in a national meet to many more swimmers than comparable meets in other organizations. Historically, swimmers, who otherwise may never encounter this experience, get the opportunity to travel to, and compete in, a big four-day meet. The qualifying times are attainable goals for most junior swimmers (at least 10 years of age) as they approach the age of 13, and for senior swimmers from 14 years of age.

Hosted by Team Charlotte Swimming, this year’s event—formerly planned to take place in Charlotte, North Carolina—was forced to become a virtual event. Parents, most of whom usually attend the meets and perform chaperoning duties for meals, as well as timing and officiating duties, pulled together to ensure a successful local event, while honoring the seniors and upholding important team traditions such as door decorating, swimmers’ parade, and roses for anyone earning a spot on the podium.

Participation on the National Team involved 25% of the swimmers. “We saw amazing achievements that included kids receiving qualification times that will allow them to compete at other prestigious events,” said swim dad Dan Campbell of Plainville.

“Twenty-seven of the meet participants swam at personal best times.” Dan continued, “Beyond the 189 swims at Sunkissed, we know how fortunate our kids were to be able to swim throughout the short course season. My daughter Megan, who will go on to swim in college with eight other recruits, is one of two who got to swim during COVID — and she is the only one that’s been able to compete. That she achieved four personal bests at Nationals is something else!”

It is a testament to the commitment of the team when one looks at Sunkissed results to see nine team records broken, including the shattering of the twenty-year-standing 500 free record. Harikalal Birali (of Franklin) broke her first team record, Jack Maron (of Sharon) broke two, and Jill Carline (of Attleboro) had a standout showing with 6 team records.

“The Y’s support means so much to families involved in the 2020 HAY Lightning season, said Dan who looks forward to the future of the team and his involvement with it.

 

HAY Lightning, the Hockomock Area YMCA’s competitive swim team for swimmers 18 years and younger, participated in their annual national championship swim meet March 25-28 at the North Attleboro YMCA. The 30 Junior & Senior National Championship qualifying swimmers posted 134 personal best times (out of 162 swims) and 25 swimmers achieved qualifying times for Sunkissed Championship Meet 2022. Eight team records were broken.
HAY Lightning, the Hockomock Area YMCA’s competitive swim team for swimmers 18 years and younger, participated in their annual national championship swim meet March 25-28 at the North Attleboro YMCA. The 30 Junior & Senior National Championship qualifying swimmers posted 134 personal best times (out of 162 swims) and 25 swimmers achieved qualifying times for Sunkissed Championship Meet 2022


Franklin Fire Dept welcomes 2 new engines

Town of Franklin, MA (@TOFranklinMA) tweeted on Fri, May 21, 2021:
Special delivery at the Franklin Fire Department today! Two new engines have been added to the fleet and will serve as the front line pieces of equipment for the Town. 
These state of the art engines will be deployed from both stations in town. @FranklinMAfire https://t.co/Ldc79s6gqp

Shared from Twitter: https://twitter.com/TOFranklinMA/status/1395754417106915329

Finance Committee meeting of February has an overview of the truck purchase. A good deal for the Town as it saves money on both trucks and maintains the online and reserve rotation of vehicles that has worked well for the Town.

The Town Council meeting of February 17 covers the legislation for action authorizing the purchase of the vehicles. Due to the timing, the Town Council got to approve first and then the Finance Committee reviewed it. Normally, it would have been the other way around.

Franklin Fire Dept welcomes 2 new engines
Franklin Fire Dept welcomes 2 new engines