Providing accurate and timely information about what matters in Franklin, MA since 2007. * Working in collaboration with Franklin TV and Radio (wfpr.fm) since October 2019 *
Tuesday, August 10, 2021
"Evolutionary Origins of SARS-CoV-2" video
wfpr.fm: More Perfect Union - 023 - Mother's Influence
"In this special Mother's Day episode, the group discuss the influence their mother's and mother figures have had in their lives, sharing stories and lessons from their upbringing."
Direct Link -> https://player.captivate.fm/episode/3493a8ab-4808-43f8-9101-5c9f1d3b2dfc
wfpr.fm: More Perfect Union - 023 - Mother's Influence |
International Panel on Climate Change - report released
"Human activity is changing the Earth’s climate in ways “unprecedented” in thousands or hundreds of thousands of years, with some of the changes now inevitable and “irreversible”, climate scientists have warned.Within the next two decades, temperatures are likely to rise by more than 1.5C above pre-industrial levels, breaching the ambition of the 2015 Paris climate agreement, and bringing widespread devastation and extreme weather.Only rapid and drastic reductions in greenhouse gases in this decade can prevent such climate breakdown, with every fraction of a degree of further heating likely to compound the accelerating effects, according to the International Panel on Climate Change, the world’s leading authority on climate science."
Visit the IPCC page for section of or the full report https://www.ipcc.ch/report/sixth-assessment-report-working-group-i/
Monday, August 9, 2021
Spier Family Kindness For Kids 5K & Kids Run + Family Day - Sep 19
Join us for a great race and family day at the site of so many championships!
Sponsored by the Spier Family and in support of Hockomock Area YMCA Food Access Programs, the annual 5K that hundreds have come to love (formerly called The Foxboro 5K) returns to Patriot Place and will be held Sunday, Sept. 19. Join us!
Food insecurity is a growing concern in the region and, to address this, the Hockomock Y provides free food and meals with no questions asked. We are proud to announce that the annual Hockomock Area YMCA 5K has matured beyond our former route neighboring the Foxboro Y and invite you to run/walk at Patriot Place surrounding Gillette Stadium!
This course and the entire morning of activities will make memories for years to come for all ages and abilities. All proceeds will go to feeding our community.
More info and link to register at https://www.hockymca.org/5k-family-day/
Spier Family Kindness For Kids 5K & Kids Run + Family Day - Sep 19
a new StoryWalk is on the rail trail
Starting Saturday, August 7th, the Franklin Recreation Department and the Franklin Public Library are teaming up again for a summer series of StoryWalks on the trail!
The StoryWalk will be up until September, so you have plenty of time to enjoy the story, while social distancing!
a new StoryWalk is on the rail trail |
Franklin Annual Report - 2020: Franklin Housing Authority
The following Officers were duly elected at the annual organizational meeting of the Franklin Housing Authority held on June 18, 2020.
- George A. Danello, Chairman
- Christopher K. Feeley, Vice Chairperson
- Diane Padula, Treasurer
- Peter L. Brunelli, Assistant Treasurer
- Andrew M. Kepple, Commissioner
FHA Staff
- Lisa Audette, Executive Director
- Candice Day, Administrative Assistant
- Carole Blanchard, Office Assistant
- Michael Gilligan, Maintenance Supervisor
- Frank McAvoy, Maintenance Laborer
- James Brunelli, Groundskeeper/Laborer
- Julia Schneiderman, Service Coordinator
Former Commissioner Teehan
Mark A. Teehan was placed on the Franklin Housing Authority Board in 2007 by the Governor as the State Appointee. Mr. Teehan attended nearly every single Board meeting since his appointment, completed the MassNAHRO Board Training and Certification and served on the RCAT Committee. Not only did he become a great advocate for public housing and for the population we serve, he also became a friend. We greatly appreciate his expertise and guidance during his13 years of service.
New State Appointee
Governor Charlie Baker appointed Attorney Andrew M. Kepple to the Franklin Housing Authority Board. Mr. Kepple not only lives in Franklin but also works in our town at the highly regarded office of Doherty, Dugan, Cannon, Raymond & Weil, P.C. Attorney Kepple has concentrated his practice in the area of landlord-tenant law, civil litigation and employment law. We welcome Attorney Kepple to the Board and look forward to working with him for the betterment of our residents and properties.
Dealing with COVID -19
As the pandemic reared its’ ugly head in the spring of 2020, Franklin Housing Authority aggressively began cleaning and sterilizing all public areas within our developments for the protection of our residents. While many businesses shut down, we remained in place to support our residents and maintain as much stability as possible during the very frightening and uncharted months of unusual turmoil. While we are not out of danger yet, we see light at the end of the tunnel with hopes of vaccines and the decline of positive cases. Much appreciation to Representative Jeff Roy for providing us with ‘impossible to find’ face coverings for our residents during this time. He played a very crucial part in keeping our resident from contracting or spreading this virus. Thanks to our residents for listening to the Governors’ warnings and guidance during this time. It brought many months of loneliness to many of our seniors but the stamina of their compliance kept us safe. Much thanks to our maintenance department for continuing to respond to emergency work orders throughout the pandemic and maintain the buildings and property in a safe manner. Also, office staff adjusted their schedules and work environment to maintain as much continuity as possible. It has not been easy for any them or their families. Their service is highly commendable. Lastly, the unwavering support of Chairman Danello and the FHA Board Members cannot go unnoticed. Board Members were readily available for any need of the agency and always looking out for the best interest of our staff and residents. Their remarkable awareness and action throughout has demonstrated their commitment to the agency. We are very fortunate.
Modernization of the Franklin Housing Authority Properties
A Contract for Financial Assistance from the Department of Housing & Community Development (DHCD) for the purpose of repairing components of the aged agency for their fiscal year ending June 30, 2020 was awarded to the FHA. Several projects were completed using this very timely and important funding including support beam repairs, fire alarm system and sewer line replacement. Completed projects for this fiscal year exceeded $250, 000.
High Leverage Asset Preservation Program (HILAPP)
FHA Property
The Franklin Housing Authority manages 161 units of State Aided Elderly/Disabled Housing, 33 units of low income Family Housing and two, 8-unit Group Homes. Additionally, the Housing Authority is responsible for a four-bedroom congregate facility. This program provides a shared living environment for its residents who maintain private bedrooms. Congregate housing was established for residents who are self-reliant, however may need limited additional support.
Franklin Housing Authority also owns two single family homes and one duplex in Franklin. These properties are reserved for lease to low-income persons and afford these families the opportunity to live in a residential neighborhood for an affordable rent.
Franklin Housing Authority has been contracted to manage the Norfolk Housing Authority. By taking on this agreement, we increase the FHA/NHA housing stock by an additional 84 units of public housing. Norfolk is very close logistically and has been the ‘little brother’ to Franklin for many years. We see this opportunity as a benefit to our new Norfolk residents and financially beneficial to both agencies. We look forward to working at the Norfolk Housing Authority and with the NHA Board Members to maintain the beautiful, safe and affordable housing in the Town of Norfolk.
Special Events Noted with Appreciation
Franklin Rotarians planned the third annual Valentine’s Breakfast in February for our senior residents and for seniors throughout the town. This is a rare opportunity for our residents to enjoy a wonderful homemade breakfast with pancakes, eggs and all the delicious breakfast meats, pastries and fruits. Rotarians made this enjoyable Valentine’s breakfast even more special by giving each senior a Valentine gift. Fun was had by all. We hope to enjoy future Valentine breakfast feasts with the generous Franklin Rotarians.
Rotary Club members planned their annual pasta dinner to FHA residents and area seniors complete with all the fixings. Unfortunately, this dinner was not able to take place due to the COVID-19. Rotary members continue to brainstorm ways they can provide meals to our residents during the difficult time. Rotarians always are welcome by the residents and the smiles and the kind words of appreciation linger for many months. Much thanks to the Rotarians.
Special Thanks
The Board of Commissioners, Staff and Residents of the Franklin Housing Authority wish to express their thanks and appreciation to the following:
• The Clergy, for continuous support and comfort in the time of need and always.
• Chairman Tom Mercer and all of the Franklin Town Council Members, Town Administrator, Jamie Hellen and their staff for their continued support and assistance. Best wishes to former Administrator Jeff Nutting for a healthy and prosperous retirement.
• Chairman Christopher Vericker and all Franklin’s Municipal Affordable Housing Trust members for their generous donation in support of our senior housing units. Also, thanks for having a similar goal as FHA in providing affordable housing to people of lower income.
• Council on Aging, Veterans Agent, SHINE Program and Food Pantry for assisting residents with health care concerns and working with the Authority to recognize needs and provide activities, nourishment and specialized services.
• Franklin Fire and Rescue, Chief James McLaughlin, Deputy Chief James Glich and Deputy Chief Joseph BarBieri and their Department are always professional and respectful when assisting our residents during a medical time of need.
• Senator Karen Spilka, Senator Rebecca Rausch and Representative Jeffery Roy for their relentless support of the Housing Programs and Bills with the best interest of our town and residents at heart. Also, a huge thank you to Representative Roy for providing our resident with a supply of face covering masks during the pandemic. At the time of need when masks were no where to be found, Rep. Roy came to the rescue.
• Governor Charlie Baker and Lt. Governor Karyn Polito for support of Massachusetts public housing.
• Norfolk County Sherriff’s Department and Sherriff Jerome McDermott for including FHA in their inmate community service program, their professionalism during evictions and their support of the Franklin Housing Authority.
• Franklin Food Pantry and Executive Director Lynn Calling for the support of the residents of Franklin Housing Authority. Also, much appreciation for locating pickups in the most convenient places for our residents to manage.
• Saint Mary’s Church, Friends of Franklin and Saint Vincent de Paul for supporting our residents during exceptional times of need.
Through the years, the Franklin community and the housing authority find ways to improve the quality of life for our area seniors, disabled persons and low-income families. With the support of the Commissioners and the community, the Franklin Housing Authority continues to be a wonderful, safe and affordable community housing opportunity.
Lisa M. Audette,
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk/files/town-franklin-annual-report-2020
Franklin Annual Report - 2020: Franklin Housing Authority |
Ben & Jerry's Ice cream truck scheduled for the Franklin Cultural Festival - Sep 12
wfpr.fm: More Perfect Union - 022 - Chauvin Trial
"In this episode, Frank and the group discuss the results of the recent Derek Chauvin Trial, the work that still needs to be done on, and the future following these results."
Direct link -> https://player.captivate.fm/episode/8c326236-51bc-43f8-a006-fce102ce995f
wfpr.fm: More Perfect Union - 022 - Chauvin Trial |
MIAA - week 1 at The Hub (video series)
“The Hub” has been created as a central area on the MIAA website for video content that students, coaches, athletic directors, administrators and more can explore and access on their own time, at their own pace.
The video presentations will cover a variety of topics including leadership, wellness, and other educational athletics content. Most videos will be approximately 15-20 minutes in duration and presented by speakers that the MIAA has partnered with through initiatives such as the New England Student Leadership Conference, Wellness Summit, Sportsmanship Summit and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Summit.Each Monday throughout the summer, a new set of six videos will be added to “The Hub”. These weekly video releases will also be organized according to the core competencies of Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)."
Shared from Twitter: https://twitter.com/MIAA033/status/1415021973458100227
Go to http://www.miaa.net/contentm/easy_pages/view.php?sid=38&page_id=354
MIAA - week 1 at The Hub (video series) |
Sunday, August 8, 2021
Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - Aug 10, 2021
School Committee Meeting
Municipal Building - Council Chambers (Virtual Link in Agenda)
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
Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - Aug 10, 2021 |
Franklin TV: Oops! Change in Plan
by Pete Fasciano, Executive Director 08/08/2021
FSPA Master Class with Nikki Wyndham scheduled for Aug 15
Get whipped into shape with Broadway’s original Brooke Wyndham @nikkisnelsonaugh!
Nikki will be teaching a Legally Blonde themed dance master class on August 15th!
Additionally, audience members can meet Nikki at the Saturday, August 14th performances of @franklin.performing.arts.co’s Legally Blonde!
Franklin Annual Report - 2020: Franklin Historical Museum
Our Mission
The Franklin Historical Museum collects, preserves, and provides access to materials connected to the vibrant history of the Town of Franklin. Through its archives and various collection materials, the FHM seeks to create a greater appreciation for the people and events that came before it and cultivate an understanding that knowledge of the past brings about a better tomorrow.
Collections Policy
The new collections policy for the Museum is complete with forms and procedures that adhere to professional standards in the museum and archives world. These include a collections policy, a deaccession policy, mission and vision statements, a disaster management plan, donation procedures, a new deed of gift form, processing plan and finding aid templates, and details about the cataloging system which is being employed at the Museum.
SHRAB Preservation Grant
This year the Museum successfully applied for a preservation grant through the Massachusetts State Historic Records Advisory Board which enabled us to purchase proper storage materials for the Museum’s subject file collection. Thus far, ten linear feet of materials have been placed in archival quality folders and boxes thanks to the funds provided by the grant.
Museum Collections
This year has mostly been focused on processing the collections materials housed in the Museum and transforming the piles of collections and archives materials into various collections which can be used by researchers and staff and writing user-friendly finding aids so that they can find what they are looking for. This means working one box, one cabinet at a time, opening it up, seeing what is in there and figuring out what it needs and where it belongs. Thus far, over one hundred and fifty linear feet of materials have been fully processed and catalogued including books, postcards, sheet music, photographs, scrapbooks, letters, pamphlets, and various documents.
Social Media
Our social media accounts are dedicated to sharing vibrant stories from Franklin’s past as well as promoting virtual learning opportunities for all ages. To learn more about the history of the Town and how it relates to the world around you, follow us on Facebook and Instagram today!
Facebook: Franklin Historical Museum
COVID-19 Archive Project
To share your stories with the Franklin Historical Museum COVID-19 Archive Project, follow the link on our Instagram page (@franklinhistoricalmuseum) or email rfinnigan@franklinma.gov and we will send you a link to our survey. Thank you for your stories!
In Conclusion
I would like to thank everyone who has helped further the mission of the Museum, from donors to volunteers to visitors coming in off the street. We are here to serve you and, with your continued support, hope to continue to bolster community engagement as we work to create a safe space for learning and research.
Respectfully submitted,
Rebecca Finnigan, Archivist
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk/files/town-franklin-annual-report-2020
Franklin Annual Report - 2020: Franklin Historical Museum |
Rotary Club of Franklin MA - Car Show - Sunday 9-26-21
I am sharing an announcement that Rotary Club of Franklin MA is preparing for our 4th Annual Car Show, on Sept 26, 2021 at Dean College Campus Center. Auto Entry is $15 and Spectators can enter for FREE.
There will be music and plenty of different cars and trucks to see. Fun for the entire family.
Please feel free to share this flyer. I appreciate your help! with spreading the word.
Diane
Franklin, MA 02038
Car show flyer -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iY9ctMfaOab0xz8_eowab-XNEsUmbUf5/view?usp=sharing
Rotary Club of Franklin MA - Car Show - Sunday 9-26-21 |
wfpr.fm: More Perfect Union - 021 - Amendments Part I
"In this episode, Frank and the group discuss the history of the U.S. constitution, amendments, and the need for more amendments in the modern age."
Direct link -> https://player.captivate.fm/episode/abaccbaf-631f-44d7-a62c-344f0fa5578e
wfpr.fm: More Perfect Union - 021 - Ammendments Part I |