Franklin, MA: School Committee - Meeting Agenda - Mar 8, 2022 - 7 PM

Franklin, MA: School Committee Meeting

Municipal Building - Council Chambers (Virtual Link in Agenda)

Call to Order Ms. Spencer

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. FY23 Superintendent’s Recommended Budget  ->   https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/fy23_superintendents_recommended_budget_0.pdf

III. Discussion/Action Items

A. Policy 2nd Reading-Adoption

I recommend Adoption of Policy GDQD - Suspension and Dismissal of Support Staff Members as discussed.   https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_a_-_policy_2nd_read-adoption_0.pdf

B. Policy 1st Readings

I recommend moving the following policies to a second reading as discussed:  https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_b_-_policy_1st_readings.pdf

• EBCFA - Face Coverings
• JICFB - Bullying Prevention & Intervention
• BEDB – Order of Business
• BEDH - Public Participation at School Committee Meetings

IV. Discussion Only Items

A. FY23 Budget Discussion -> https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-district-budget/pages/1-fy-2023-budget

V. Information Matters

A. School Committee Sub-Committee Reports (e.g. Supt. Evaluation, Budget, Community Relations/Public Schools Advocacy, Policy and Space Needs & Facilities Analysis Sub Committee)

B. School Committee Liaison Reports (e.g. Joint PCC, (SATF) Substance Abuse Task Force, (SWAC) School Wellness Advisory Council, SEPAC (Special Education Parent Advisory Council), DEI Committee (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion).

VI. New Business

A. To discuss any future agenda items

VII. Consent Agenda

• A. Approval of Minutes - I recommend approval of the minutes from the February 8, 2022 School Committee meeting and February 16, 2022 Special School Committee Meeting as detailed.
• B. FEF Gift - I recommend acceptance of a check for $12,000.00 from the Franklin Education Foundation as discussed.

VIII. Payment of Bills Ms. Spencer

IX. Payroll Ms. Stokes

X. Executive Session

a. Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(3) to discuss strategy with respect to collective bargaining with the FEA/RN unit as an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the bargaining position of the School Committee and the chair so declares.

b. Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(3) to discuss strategy with respect to collective bargaining with non-union personnel. 

c. Executive session pursuant to M.G.L. c.30A, §21(a)(1) to consider an Open Meeting Law complaint against public officers, namely the members of the School Committee, filed with the Committee by Kyle Thompson and dated February 3, 2022.

XI. Adjournment

Link to Agenda document -> https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/agendas/scagenda_3-8-22.pdf

Link to meeting packet -> https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/pages/march-8-2022-school-committee-meeting

FY23 Superintendent’s Recommended Budget

Massachusetts House Passes Legislation To Boost Offshore Wind Development, Reduce Carbon Emissions

In an effort to meet the Commonwealth’s climate goals of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, the House of Representatives today (03/03/2022) passed legislation to further develop the offshore wind industry in Massachusetts. The legislation will also modernize Massachusetts’ electrical grid and energy storage infrastructure, and create thousands of new jobs. 

“I’m immensely proud of the steps that the House took today to ensure Massachusetts remains at the forefront of renewable energy development,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “Not only will this legislation help us reduce our carbon emissions and combat climate change, it will also spur economic development, modernize our energy infrastructure, and create thousands of new jobs in the process. I want to thank Chairman Roy for his hard work in advancing this legislation, as its passage today was undoubtedly a critical step in the right direction.” 

“I am thrilled that today the House passed legislation crucial to the development of a strong offshore wind industry in Massachusetts,” said Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin), House Chair of the Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities, and Energy. “Massachusetts waters have the greatest offshore wind potential out of the contiguous U.S., and this legislation will ensure that the Commonwealth is prepared to harness that energy while also creating a just and robust local economy, educational opportunities for our residents, and critical upgrades to our energy infrastructure without causing undue harm to our coastal habitats or maritime industries.”  

“An Act advancing offshore wind and clean energy” (H.4515):  (https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/H4515)

• Makes the Massachusetts offshore wind bidding process more competitive by removing a current price cap that requires bids to be less expensive than previous procurements that has deterred companies from participating in the procurement process. Future procurements would now include economic development, employment, and environmental and fisheries mitigation benefits. 
• Invests hundreds of millions of dollars over the next decade in infrastructure, innovation, job training, supply chain capacity, and transmission upgrades. The legislation consists of tax incentives, grants, loans, and other investments.  
• Requires utility companies to proactively upgrade the transmission and distribution grid to improve reliability and resilience and accommodate the anticipated significant shift to renewable forms of energy. 
• Invests in long-term energy storage to help the Commonwealth’s transition to renewable energy.
• Provides thousands of good-paying jobs with a focus on ensuring access and opportunity for everyone.  
• Creates a DESE high school offshore wind credential training pilot program through which DESE would reimburse school districts for each student that obtains the credential.

The legislation creates parity between electric and natural gas, imposing a charge for natural gas consumers to support renewable energy, similar to the charge electric customers currently pay. At a little over $1 a month for the average customer, this is estimated to collect $23 million a year over the next 10 years to support the Commonwealth’s transition to clean energy. By diversifying Massachusetts’ energy portfolio, Massachusetts will become more energy independent and less reliant on imported natural gas that is susceptible to volatile price spikes, thereby helping to stabilize ratepayer bills in the long term. 

“An Act advancing offshore wind and clean energy” (H.4515) passed the House of Representatives 144-12. It now goes to the Senate for their consideration.  

Link to the legislation -> https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/H4515

Links to coverage of this legislation:

• https://commonwealthmagazine.org/energy/offshore-wind-bill-sails-through-house/
• https://www.bostonglobe.com/2022/03/02/opinion/offshore-wind-is-future-massachusetts/
• https://www.wgbh.org/news/politics/2022/03/03/house-pushes-for-massachusetts-to-become-the-center-of-u-s-wind-production
• https://www.bostonglobe.com/2022/03/02/business/race-offshore-wind-jobs-mass-is-falling-behind-so-now-what/

Massachusetts House Passes Legislation To Boost Offshore Wind Development, Reduce Carbon Emissions

Reminder! Learn about zoning in Franklin Monday, Mar 7, 2022 at 7 PM

Franklin for All Public Forum Monday, March 7, 7 p.m.

Join the Town of Franklin and MAPC for our first public forum on Monday, March 7 at 7PM! This will be a hybrid meeting that takes place in the Council Chambers at Town Hall (please note the change in location) and over Zoom. Click the link below to register and tell us if you plan to attend in person or remotely. Register for the March 7 Forum www.mapc.org/franklin-for-all

Metropolitan Area Planning Council | 60 Temple Place, Boston, MA 02111 Sent by ebattaglia@mapc.org powered by Try email marketing for free today!

Town Council Quarterbacking with Tom Mercer - 03/03/22 (audio)

FM #744 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 744 in the series. 

This shares my conversation with Town Council Chair Tom Mercer. This is one of a series of conversations meant to provide a recap of the prior Council meeting. Akin to one of the many sports post-game analysis broadcasts we are familiar with in New England,  this would be a discussion focused on the Franklin Town Council meeting of March 3, 2022: 

• ok, what just happened? 

• What does it mean for Franklin residents and taxpayers?

We cover the following key topics

PRESENTATIONS / DISCUSSIONS

a. Presentation: Other Post-Employment Benefits - Dan Sherman, Sherman Actuarial Services

 

9. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION

a. Resolution 22-15: Direction for Issuance of Request for Expressions of Interest for Town Property Containing “South Franklin Congregational Meeting House” Located at 762 Washington Street (Motion to Approve Resolution 22-15 - Majority Vote)

b. Resolution 22-16: Authorization for Town Administrator to Negotiate and Execute New Agreement Between Town and Franklin Community Cable Access, Inc. for PEG Programming and Access Services (Motion to Approve Resolution 22-16 - Majority Vote)

 

Subcommittee Reports

a. Capital Budget Subcommittee – Mar 3, then to full Council likely March 16

b. Budget Subcommittee – Joint meeting – Mar 10 (Finance Cmte meeting - March 9)

c. Economic Development Subcommittee – met Weds before Council meeting, Franklin For All forum Mar 7

Links to the meeting agenda and associated documents released for this meeting are included in the show notes.  The recording runs about 25 minutes.

Let’s listen to this recording of Town Council Quarterbacking Mar 3, 2022

Audio file ->  https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-744-town-council-quarterbacking-with-tom-mercer-03-03-22

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Town Council Agenda document -> 

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/town_council_meeting_agenda_-march_2_2022.pdf 

My notes for the meeting -> 

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1V68RACg-cfE7DL80uaXkOSwQhTPWL2yC/view?usp=sharing 

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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 your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

 

OPEB consultant Dan Sherman participated remotely

Both FHS girls and boys basketball teams advance in playoffs with wins on Friday

Via HockomockSports.com, we share the results of the FHS winter sports action on Friday: 

Boys Basketball - Division 1 = #28 Durfee, 39 @ #5 Franklin, 60 – Final 

– A 15-0 run to start the game and a dominant third quarter highlighted Franklin’s big win over visiting Durfee. Sophomore Henry DiGiorgio made a splash in his first game back after missing five games to finish the season, scoring seven of his 10 points in the first while senior Sean Vinson (14 points) hit a pair of first quarter threes to set the tone early. Justin Allen, Will Tracey, and Andrew O’Neill each hit a three in the second as Franklin established a 31-19 lead at halftime. In the third, the Panthers poured in 21 points while holding the Hilltoppers to just eight to extend the lead to 52-27. Sophomore Sean O’Leary scored half of his 12 points in the third while DiGiorgio added a three for Franklin, who will host #21 Catholic Memorial next week.

Boys D1 bracket ->  http://miaa.statebrackets.com/tmenu.cfm?tid=5796

Girls Basketball - Division 1 = #27 Braintree, 43 @ #6 Franklin, 69 – Final 

– The Panthers scored the opening 11 points of the game and never let up, rolling to a big win in the first round. Franklin scored 22 points in the first and 20 int the second, building a 42-21 lead at halftime. The lead grew to 30 points after three. Katie Peterson was Franklin’s top scorer with 17 points, 15 of them coming in the first half. Stefany Padula scored nine (six in the first quarter) and Olivia Quinn and Brigid Earley each scored eight. Julia White chipped in with seven points off the bench for the Panthers. Hailey Sherrick was the game’s top scorer with 22 points for the Wamps, 15 in the second half. Franklin will host No. 11 seed Lincoln-Sudbury in the Sweet Sixteen at a date and time to be determined.

Girls D1 bracket -> http://miaa.statebrackets.com/tmenu.cfm?tid=5786

Next games for girls and boys basketball   https://twitter.com/FHSSports/status/1499951211356774401

Our next boys and girls basketball games will be played at Franklin High School on Tuesday or Wednesday. A decision will be made this weekend once approved by our opponents and the MIAA.

Both Boys and Girls Basketball teams are advancing to the Round of 16. The only ticket purchase option will be online ticket sales through GoFan.

How to Guide (How to Buy Tickets; How to Validate Mobile Tickets; Accessing and Sharing Tickets  https://get.gofan.co/digital-ticketing-guide

Girls Hockey - Division 2 = #25 Franklin, 0 @ #8 Andover, 4 – Final

For other results around the Hockomock League

https://hockomocksports.com/fridays-schedule-scoreboard-03-04-22/

FHS Panthers

March 2022 Franklin Public Library News & Events

March 2022 Franklin Public Library News & Events

Library Hours

The Library's regular hours are Monday through Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Sunday 1:30-5:00 p.m.

Book Sale
Friday, March 18, 1:00-5:00 p.m.  Saturday, March 19, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 Noon.
All books are just one dollar!
Bag Sale - $5 A Bag—Saturday, March 19, from 1:00-4:00 p.m.
Come fill a brown bag with all the books you can!

Homework Help Program

The Franklin Public Library is now offering its free Homework Help program for grades 1-8. The program takes place Monday through Thursday, 3:00-5:00 p.m. Students will be assisted by either retired teachers or high school students. Application forms for both participants and volunteers are available at the Circulation Desk and on the Library's website https://www.franklinma.gov/children-teen-services/pages/homework-assista... .

One Book, One Community Winter 2022

The Franklin Public Library is having a Winter 2022 One Book, One Community program as a way to have the community come together through the reading and discussion of a common book. This winter, we are reading The 71/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle by Stuart Turton.  Turton's book is a mixture of "Locked room mystery" (a la Agatha Christie), psychological thriller, romance, and...maybe...time travel? That's for you to find out!

Print copies of the book are available at the library, and it is also available through interlibrary loan.  If you'd prefer a digital copy, it's available as both and ebook and audiobook through the Hoopla and Libby apps. Please visit our One Book, One Community webpage to learn more about author Stuart Turton, read the book discussion questions, and experience the online escape room challenge! The library will be hosting a discussion of the book on Tuesday, March 22nd at 7:00 p.m.

New Materials

Check out our list of newly added books, movies, music, ebooks and e-audiobooks!

https://www.franklinma.gov/franklin-public-library/pages/new-materials

Featured Databases: hoopla & Kanopy

With hoopla, you can borrow thousands of movies, television, music, and audiobook titles for free with your library card. Always available, no waiting lists. Enjoy on your PC, tablet, or phone. Access to this database is limited to Franklin residents. Watch video tutorials on using hoopla here.

Kanopy is an on-demand movie streaming video service with access to thousands of documentary, foreign, silent, and independent films. Stream over 30,000 films from hundreds of popular producers such as The Criterion Collection, The Great Courses, and PBS, as well as thousands of independent filmmakers. Stream Kanopy on your computer or download the app on your phone, tablet or Roku device. Access to this database is limited to Franklin residents.

Programs for Children and Teens

Weekly Events for Families!

Move Along! Mondays @ 10:30AM

This thirty minute program features music, movement, stories, and other interactive activities to encourage social skills and promote early literacy!

Idea Club! Mondays @4:00PM

Join us for a weekly storytime celebration of all the ways we are different and wonderful! We'll read, sing, play and learn about our diverse world and talk about how we can make it kinder and more inclusive!

Dungeons and Dragons Club for Kids! Mondays, 4:00-6:00PM (7+)

Kids are invited to join us for a weekly Dungeons and Dragons Club! The library will supply dice, rule books, and blank character sheets! (Dungeon Masters must be ages 10 and up) Email mgousie@minlib.net to sign up!

Animation Nation Anime Club! Mondays, 6:00-7:30PM (7+)

Your weekly dose of anime goodness at The Franklin Public Library! Come watch the latest releases and popular anime shows, ideal for ages 7+!

Cool Cruisers! Tuesdays @ 9:30AM

Babies who have graduated from tummy time and are scooting all over the place are welcome to this playgroup just for them! We recognize that fun age of exploring is very different from their first few months, so join us for a special playgroup just for this exciting time!

Get Ready for Kindergarten! Tuesdays @10:30AM (3–5)

This 45 minute program featuring stories, songs, activities, and crafts will help prepare your children for preschool and kindergarten.  Parents and caregivers can attend with their child if they wish.  No registration required!

Homeschool Hangout! Tuesdays from 12:00-2:00PM

Join other local homeschool families in a space dedicated to you! Each Tuesday between 12-2PM, the Friends of the Franklin Library Room will be available for homeschool families to hang out, get work done, and connect!

Toe-Tapping Tuesdays! Tuesdays @ 4:00PM (2-4)

Let's play some music and get those little toes moving! We will have fun learning to move to the music while building coordination and confidence.

Girls Who Code! Grade 3-5 Meeting time Tuesdays @ 4:00 PM

Spring 2022 Session Sign ups on the library website!

This club is a great introduction to coding languages and concepts while building the community and group work skills needed to excel! Whether you want to try something new, build on skills, make friends, or help someone else grow... Welcome to our club!

Terrific Toddlers! Wednesdays @10:30AM (18 mos–3yrs)

Enjoy thirty minutes of interactive stories, songs, and activities for families and children from birth to age 3. No registration required!

Science Junction! 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month @4:00PM

(Also 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the Month for Homeschool families @2:30PM)

FHS Seniors Mani and Vedika are so excited to share their love for science and foster that love in elementary-level kids! Join them once a month for fun science experiments, activities, and more! From dinosaurs to chemical reactions the possibilities are endless!

Tummy Time! Thursdays @ 9:30AM

Babies and caregivers: join us each Thursday morning for Tummy Time! Nurture your baby's development with gentle music, movement, and sensory play at the library! Please bring a small blanket or towel for your baby's comfort!

Story and Craft, Thursdays @10:30AM (3+)

Join us for 30 minutes of themed stories, songs, and movement followed by 30 minutes of craft and sensory play. For children ages 3 and up that can attend on their own. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to watch from the adjoining room.

Bookworm Bounce! Thursdays @ 4:00PM

Join us for an afternoon story time full of music, movement, stories, and other interactive activities to encourage social skills and promote early literacy!

Doggie Tales! 1st and 3rd Thursday of the Month @4:30 PM (1st grade +)

Improve your reading skills and make a new friend by reading aloud to a trained therapy dog! Bring your favorite book or pick out one of ours to read. REGISTRATION REQUIRED. SPOTS ARE LIMITED. Register on our website to reserve your spot.

Happy Feet! Alternating Fridays @10:30AM (2-4)

Let's play some music and get those little toes moving! Join us for an introductory class into creative movement using very basic ballet moves. We will have fun learning to move to the music while building coordination and confidence. Laughter and giggles are definitely expected!

Silly Songs and Stories! Alternating Fridays @10:30AM (0-5)

This thirty minute program features music, movement, stories, and other interactive activities for littles! Parents and caregivers are welcome and encouraged to participate. No registration required!

Lego Free-Build Friday! Alternating Fridays @2:30 (0-5)

Let imaginations run WILD! Enjoy 2 hours of Friday fun time to build what you like with the Library Legos! Cool builds will be displayed on the Library Website & Facebook! ALL Legos are washed in between sessions!

Special Events for Kids & Families

March Madness Character Challenge!

Our favorite characters are competing again in the hopes of being crowned Franklin's Favorite Character! 2018 - Harry Potter; 2019 - Gerald and Piggie; 2020 - Dog Man; 2021 - Curious George; 2022 - Who will win? Only YOU can decide!

Kids Take & Make: Pot of Gold!

Starting Tuesday, March 1st stop by and pick up your very own Pot of Gold Kit. Kits include supplies and instructions for making your very own paper plate pot of gold! SUPPLIES ARE LIMITED! Pot of Gold Kits will be distributed on a first come first serve basis!

Tape Town! Saturday, March 5th @10:30AM

Families! Spend an imaginative morning at the library! Bring along a small toy vehicle (or borrow one of ours) and cruise along our "roads" made of tape all through our big meeting room, and enjoy a series of interactive pretend play stations all through the town!

Baby Sensory! Saturday March 19th @9:30AM

Join us for a 45 minute baby sensory program! Watch your little one interact and engage with a variety of sensory items! Sensory play is a fantastic way to help babies explore their worlds, stimulate the senses, and create little inquisitive explorers! Babies under 2 are welcome and encouraged! (Got older siblings? They can bring along a stuffed toy or baby and play along!)

Rainbow Scavenger Hunt! March 14-19!

Can you find all of the colors of the rainbow hidden around the children's and teen rooms? Find every color to win your own pot of gold!

Encanto Fiesta! Saturday March 19th @10:30AM

Families! Join us for a special fiesta celebrating the film, family and casita everyone is loving lately! We'll have crafts, games, songs, and more!

Weekend Wiggles! Saturday March 12th and March 26thth @10:30AM

A weekend storytime for littles and their grown-ups! Let's play some music and get those little toes moving! We will have fun learning to move to the music while building coordination and confidence. Laughter and giggles are definitely expected! Ideal for children ages 2-5!

Kids Paint Party! Saturday March 26th @1:00PM

Join local instructor Denise Palmieri for this step-by-step paint party specifically for kids! All materials will be provided and you'll get to take home your very own lucky masterpiece! Space is limited!! Register on our website to reserve your spot. For Ages 5-11!

Weekly / monthly Events for Teens

Animation Nation Anime Club! Mondays, 6:00-7:30PM (7+)

Your weekly dose of anime goodness at The Franklin Public Library! Come watch the latest releases and popular anime shows, ideal for ages 7+!

Teen Book Bites! Weekly on Wednesdays, 5:30-PM

Teens! Bring along a snack and join us in the teen room each Wednesday for a casual chat about what we're all reading!

Teen Advisory Board, 2nd Wednesday of the Month @ 6:30PM

Join us each month for Teen Advisory Board! The Teen Advisory Board is a GREAT opportunity to get involved here at the library! You'll help plan events and programs, create displays and decorate the teen space, and help drive decisions around the kinds of materials we bring to the YA collection, from books and beyond, all while eating snacks and getting volunteer hours! It's a win-win-win!

VolunTeens! 2nd & 4th Thursday of the Month, 6:00-7:00PM (6th-12th Grade)

An elite volunteering program for dedicated library volunteers, this program is designed to facilitate unique volunteer opportunities for committed teens to work on special library projects. You will learn all about event planning and execution, hone your creative and crafty skills, and build your resume!

For more information please contact Bree at bcomeau@minlib.net.

Special Events for Teens

Teen Take & Makes: Chalk Boards!

Teens! Starting Tuesday, March 1st stop by the library to pick up your very own Chalk Board kit! Kits include supplies and instructions for making your very own hanging (or standing) chalk board! SUPPLIES ARE LIMITED! Chalk Board Kits will be distributed on a first come first serve basis!

Python Problem, Saturday, March 5, 2:00 p.m.

A Python challenge to: Learn some new expressions, Code new applications, or Fix broken code.

Each session starts with an explanation of a concept or code piece followed by a challenge using that code or concept!

Crime Time Mysteries! Saturday March 12th @2:00PM

AGES 13+ Join us for an immersive murder mystery game from "Hunt a Killer" that is told over the course of six "episodes." Each episode contains different clues that you'll use to solve the ongoing investigation! Examine the evidence to uncover critical clues, corroborate alibis, create timelines, and identify each suspect's means, motive, and opportunity! It is not required that you attend all 6 meetings, but since the episodes build on themselves, it is highly encouraged!

As You Wish: An Interactive Princess Bride Viewing! Saturday March 19th @3:00PM

Join us for a special viewing of a cult classic movie, complete with props and snacks and interactive fun!

Teen Paint Party! Thursday March 31st  @5:00PM

Teens! Join local instructor Denise Palmieri for this step-by-step paint party for teens! All materials will be provided and you'll get to take home your very own Owl painting! Ages 12+

Programs for Adults

Take and Make Craft for Adults: Macramé

Kits will be available starting March 1st at the Circulation Desk. Supplies are limited. There is a limit of one kit per adult.

Love crafting? Check out the CREATIVEBUG database! Available to Franklin residents with a valid Minuteman Library Network library card. Creativebug.com has more than 1,000 award-winning art and craft video classes, taught by recognized design experts and artists.

Celebrating Ireland in Story & Song, Saturday, March 5, 3:00 p.m.

Celtic music with 'Celebrating Ireland in Story & Song'. Come join us for an afternoon celebrating the music, hilarity and dance of Ireland. Phil Edmonds (originally from County Clare), is an (alleged) leprechaun who plays the tin whistle and button accordion with great warmth and spirit. Kevin Fallon (by way of county Roscommon and Mayo) is a soulful guitarist, fiddler and singer. Mary King (Up Donegal & Cavan) joins in with the fiddle, Celtic Harp and voice. She also teaches a beginning Irish step 1/2 hour before the program. Get your green on, warm up your voices and sit back and enjoy. This program is in-person, free, and open to the public. For more information about Celebrating Ireland, please visit https://marykingharpist.com/celebrating-ireland/ .

Indoor Seed Starting with Blackstone Valley Veggie Gardens, Tuesday, March 8, 7:00 p.m.

There are so many more varieties of vegetables than what the garden centers offer!  We'll show you everything you need to know to start your own plants from seed. This program is in-person, free, and open to the public. For more information about Blackstone Valley Veggie Gardens, please visit https://www.blackstonevalleyveggiegardens.com/ .

Before  Brooklyn: The Unsung Heroes Who Helped Break Baseball's Color Barrier with Author Ted Reinstein, Tuesday, March 15, 7:00 p.m.

In April of 1945, exactly two years before Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in major league baseball, liberal Boston City Councilman Izzy Muchnick persuaded the Red Sox to try out three black players in return for a favorable vote to allow the team to play on Sundays. The Red Sox got the councilman's much-needed vote, but the tryout was a sham; the three players would get no closer to the major leagues. It was a lost battle in a war that was ultimately won by Robinson in 1947. This book tells the story of the little-known heroes who fought segregation in baseball, from communist newspaper reporters to the Pullman car porters who saw to it that black newspapers espousing integration in professional sports reached the homes of blacks throughout the country. It also reminds us that the first black player in professional baseball was not Jackie Robinson but Moses Fleetwood Walker in 1884, and that for a time integrated teams were not that unusual. And then, as segregation throughout the country hardened, the exclusion of blacks in baseball quietly became the norm, and the battle for integration began anew.

About the Author: Ted Reinstein has been a reporter for "Chronicle," WCVB-TV/Boston's award-winning—and America's longest-running, locally-produced—nightly news magazine since 1997. In addition, he has been a contributor for the station's political roundtable show and sits on WCVB's editorial board. He lives just west of Boston with his wife and two daughters. He is also the author of New England Notebook (Globe, 2013) and Wicked Pissed (Globe, 2016). To find out more about Ted, please visit https://tedreinstein.com/ 

Computer Confluence Saturday, March 19, 3:30 p.m.

Basic Computer skills for the digital age! Topics for this session are: Windows Navigation, Windows Settings and Controls, Keyboarding, & Devices & Peripherals. If you have a topic you would like covered at a future program please email mgousie@minlib.net with suggestions.

Franklin Public Library Book Club, Tuesday, March 22, 7:00 p.m.

The book for discussion is the library's Winter 2022 One Book, One Community title The 71/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle by Stuart Turton.  Turton's book is a mixture of "Locked room mystery" (a la Agatha Christie), psychological thriller, romance, and...maybe...time travel? That's for you to find out!

Print copies of the book are available at the library, and it is also available through interlibrary loan.  If you'd prefer a digital copy, it's available as both and ebook and audiobook through the Hoopla and Libby apps. Please visit our One Book, One Community webpage to learn more about author Stuart Turton, read the book discussion questions, and experience the online escape room challenge! The library will be hosting a discussion of the book on Tuesday, March 22nd at 7:00 p.m.

For more information, please contact Assistant Library Director Kim Shipala at kshipala@minlib.net . Book Club meetings are now taking place both in-person at the Library and on Zoom. To participate through Zoom, please register at https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0kduuppj0oGd1riTUPnGfsy7Qph0W... .

Knitting Group, Fridays, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Love to knit or crochet? Join our group of local fiber artists who will be meeting in the Friends of the Franklin Library Community Room on Fridays 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Shared from -> https://www.franklinma.gov/franklin-public-library/news/march-2022-franklin-public-library-news-events

March 2022 Franklin Public Library News & Events

FTC Kicks Off National Consumer Protection Week this Sunday, March 6

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) will launch the annual National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW) this Sunday, March 6. 

Joined by other federal, state, and local agencies, consumer and national advocacy organizations, the FTC will spend March 6-12 sharing information with Americans on how they can avoid scams, identity theft, and other consumer protection issues.

To support these efforts, the FTC and its partners have organized a series of programming ranging from webinars to Twitter chats and livestreams. Topics of interest include college students and cryptocurrency scams, financial caregiving, and how to recover from fraud.

For more about events coming up this week -> https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/press-releases/2022/03/ftc-kicks-national-consumer-protection-week-sunday-march-6?utm_source=govdelivery 

FTC Kicks Off National Consumer Protection Week this Sunday, March 6

Franklin Library: Celebrating Ireland in Story & Song - March 5 - 3 PM

Celebrating Ireland in Story & Song, Saturday, March 5, 3:00 PM

Celtic music with 'Celebrating Ireland in Story & Song'. Come join us for an afternoon celebrating the music, hilarity and dance of Ireland. 

Phil Edmonds (originally from County Clare), is an (alleged) leprechaun who plays the tin whistle and button accordion with great warmth and spirit. 

Kevin Fallon (by way of county Roscommon and Mayo) is a soulful guitarist, fiddler and singer. 

Mary King (Up Donegal & Cavan) joins in with the fiddle, Celtic Harp and voice. She also teaches a beginning Irish step 1/2 hour before the program. Get your green on, warm up your voices and sit back and enjoy. 

This program is in-person, free, and open to the public. 

For more information about Celebrating Ireland, please visit  ->   https://marykingharpist.com/celebrating-ireland/

Franklin Library: Celebrating Ireland in Story & Song - March 5 - 3 PM

 

MASS Senate Unveils Oversight Reform for Veterans’ Homes

On Thursday, March 3, 2022, the Massachusetts State Senate unveiled legislation to increase public oversight over the administration of state-operated veterans’ homes in Holyoke and Chelsea. To improve safety and transparency at the veterans’ homes, the bill would restructure the chain of command to more closely match established administrative practices used in hospitals and other large organizations. This legislation follows continued scrutiny of administrative failures at the veterans’ home in Holyoke, which led to the tragic deaths of 77 veterans during the early days of the pandemic, and builds on recommendations made by the Special Joint Oversight Committee on the Soldiers’ Home in Holyoke COVID-19 Outbreak, which investigated.
 
“As the daughter of a veteran, I continue to be heartbroken for the families of those who lost their lives to COVID-19 at the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home,” stated Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “I would like to thank the Special Joint Oversight Committee on the Soldiers’ Home in Holyoke COVID-19 Outbreak for their thorough investigation of this tragedy, as well as my colleagues in the Senate who have remained focused on dramatic and drastic governance reform to our veterans’ services to ensure the tragedy that occurred in Holyoke never happens again. The Senate will continue to lead in its efforts to support the brave men and women who have served our country. I want to thank Senator Rush for his careful attention to and leadership on this issue, and Senator Rodrigues and the Veterans Committee for their partnership in crafting this bill.”
 
“This bill will help make sure the tragedy that occurred at Holyoke Soldiers’ Home never happens again by prioritizing accountability and oversight and establishing clear chains of command at our state’s long-term care facilities for veterans,” said State Senator Michael J. Rodrigues (D-Westport), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “Thank you to Senate President for her leadership and to Senator Rush and the Veterans Committee for their work in shaping this bill and their tireless commitment to supporting veterans. I look forward to a robust debate in the Senate.”
 
“The Soldiers’ Homes have long suffered from gaps in accountability and a confused chain of command, factors which left it unable to deal with a crisis like the one we saw with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Senator Michael F. Rush (D-Boston), Senate Vice Chair of the Joint Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs and sponsor of the bill. “The language the Senate will take up tightens these gaps, enhances the level of oversight by elevating the Secretary of Veterans’ Services to a cabinet level position, and creates a stronger governing structure that supports our veterans and provides high quality care. Thank you to Senate President Spilka, Chairman Rodrigues, and my colleagues in the Senate for your continued support of the commonwealth’s veterans.”
 
This comprehensive reform bill is designed to increase the safety of residents of veterans’ homes in the Commonwealth. A new, full-time ombudsperson would receive, investigate, and assist in resolving complaints related to the health, wellbeing, and rights of veterans’ homes’ residents and staff. To effectively aid these efforts, a public hotline would be created for residents and staff to direct concerns. The bill would also task the Department of Public Health with regularly inspecting the homes, with all inspection reports would being made publicly available.
 
State-operated veterans’ homes in Massachusetts are managed by a superintendent, who is responsible for everyday operation of the homes and for ensuring improvements to quality of care. The Senate’s legislation would give the authority to appoint a superintendent for each of the Veterans’ Homes to the Executive Director of the Office of Veterans’ Homes and Housing (OVHH). Under the legislation, superintendents would be required to fulfill certain criteria, including being a licensed nursing home administrator with experience running a long-term care facility. Priority would also be given to superintendent candidates who are themselves veterans.
 
The Executive Director of OVHH would be appointed by the Massachusetts Secretary of Veterans Services, which would be elevated to a cabinet-level position, appointed by the governor. The Secretary would be required to promulgate regulations concerning the operations and administration of veterans’ homes. Elevating the Secretary to a cabinet-level position would facilitate more timely attention to all personnel challenges.
 
In addition to altering the command structure responsible for managing veterans’ homes, the bill would also create a statewide Massachusetts Veterans’ Homes Advisory Council, tasked with recommending policies to the Secretary of Veterans Services, as well as Regional Councils, which would be tasked with representing the interests of the local community, residents, and family members at each veterans’ home. Both the statewide Massachusetts Veterans’ Homes Advisory Council and Regional Councils would report annually to the Secretary and to the Legislature. Together with the Secretary of Health and Human Services, these councils would be empowered to submit nominations for and recommend the removal of superintendents. 
 
Furthermore, the bill would require each home to have a full-time specialist in infection control and emergency preparedness and to adhere to medically-sound guidelines for trauma-informed care.  Additionally, the homes would be required to maintain organizational plans, updated annually, for normal operations as well as emergency operations.
 
This legislation would set procedures and guidelines for filling vacant positions at veterans’ homes, including posting job openings in a timely fashion and ensuring that an employee is available to temporarily be tasked with any unfulfilled emergency duties while the position is vacant. Additionally, annual performance reviews would be mandated for all leadership positions at each home.
 
To facilitate veterans’ access to health care, state-operated veterans’ homes would be required to accept Medicare and Medicaid payments. The bill would also provide mental health resources to employees of state-operated veterans’ homes who worked during the pandemic and create a commission to rename the Veterans’ Homes in Chelsea and Holyoke after specific Massachusetts veterans,
 
Amendments to An Act relative to the governance, structure and care of veterans at the commonwealth’s veterans’ homes will be due on Monday, March 7, 2022, and the bill will be debated by the Senate next week.   https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/S2739

MASS Senate Unveils Oversight Reform for Veterans’ Homes