Wednesday, November 23, 2022

World still ‘on brink of climate catastrophe’ after Cop27 deal | Cop27 | The Guardian

"The world still stands “on the brink of climate catastrophe” after the deal reached at the Cop27 UN climate summit on Sunday, and the biggest economies must make fresh commitments to cut greenhouse gas emissions, climate experts and campaigners have warned.

The agreement reached in Sharm el-Sheikh early on Sunday morning, after a marathon final negotiating session that ran 40 hours beyond its deadline, was hailed for providing poor countries for the first time with financial assistance known as loss and damage. A fund will be set up by rich governments for the rescue and rebuilding of vulnerable areas stricken by climate disaster, a key demand of developing nations for the last 30 years of climate talks.

But the outcome was widely judged a failure on efforts to cut carbon dioxide, after oil-producing countries and high emitters weakened and removed key commitments on greenhouse gases and phasing out fossil fuels.

Mary Robinson, chair of the Elders Group of former world leaders, ex-president of Ireland and twice a UN climate envoy, said: “The world remains on the brink of climate catastrophe. Progress made on [cutting emissions] has been too slow. We are on the cusp of a clean energy world, but only if G20 leaders live up to their responsibilities, keep their word and strengthen their will. The onus is on them.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/nov/20/world-still-on-brink-of-climate-catastrophe-after-cop27-deal

More than 33 million people in Pakistan have been affected by this year’s floods, according to the country’s climate change minister. Photograph: Nadeem Khawar/EP
More than 33 million people in Pakistan have been affected by this year’s floods, according to the country’s climate change minister. Photograph: Nadeem Khawar/EP

Franklin TV and wfpr.fm schedule for Wednesday, Nov 23, 2022

  • wfpr.fm or 102.9 on the FM dial = Wednesday

9:00 AM 12:00 Noon and 6:00 PM Franklin Matters Radio/FPS Voice – Steve Sherlock
Franklin and its local government, services and events  (repeats Saturday at 9 AM)

10:00 AM 1:00 PM and 7:00 PM  The Wonderful World of Wine – Mark Lenzi, Kim Simone    All about wine, its culture, lore and finer points

11:00 AM 2:00 PM and 8:00 PM Franklin Matters Radio – Steve Sherlock
Franklin and its local government, services and events (repeats Saturday at 3 PM)

  • Franklin All Access TV - Our Public Access Channel (Comcast 8, Verizon 26) = WEDNESDAY

7:30 am It Takes A Village: 40 Percent Club
10:00 am Franklin Interfaith Thanksgiving 2022
11:30 am Comfort Food: Comfort Food
12:00 pm Brook'n'Cookin: Brownies
12:30 pm Sandhya: Eclairs
1:00 pm Norfolk County Prevention Coalition: Safe Prescribing
1:30 pm Pizzapalooza: Emergency Pizza
2:00 pm New England Candlepins: Fall 2019 Show 6
3:00 pm Candlepin New Generation: Show 9
3:30 pm Metrowest Symposium: Festivals & Community Celebrations
5:00 pm Sons & Daughters of Italy: Ciambotta
5:30 pm Veterans' Call: PACT Act
6:00 pm Second Sunday Speaker Series: Ted Reinstein
7:30 pm Veterans Day Luncheon 2022
10:30 pm Franklin Cultural Council: Pamela Means

  • Franklin Pride TV - Our Educational Channel (Comcast 96, Verizon 28) = WEDNESDAY

7:00 am Public School Event: Horace Mann Winter Music 2021
8:30 am Metrowest Arts & Culture Symposium
10:00 am SAFE Coalition: Michelle Palladini
11:00 am Public School Concert: MICCA Showcase Pt. 1 03-14-18
1:00 pm Rec Basketball 3x3 Tournament: Game 1 1-30-21
3:00 pm FHS Varsity Volleyball: v Barnstable 11-12-22
5:30 pm Public School Concert: MICCA Showcase Pt. 1 03-14-18
7:30 pm Battleship Cove: Inside the History Pt. 2
8:00 pm FHS Varsity Field Hockey: v Wachusett 11-11-22

  • Franklin Town Hall TV - Our Government Channel (Comcast 11, Verizon 29) = WEDNESDAY

8:00 am Town Council: 11-16-22
12:30 pm Economic Development: 11-16-22
2:00 pm Town Council: 11-16-22


Get this week's program guide for Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) online  http://franklin.tv/programguide.pdf 

Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm)
Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm)

Tuesday, November 22, 2022

Shop Local at the PRETTY IS PINK Boutique and "Look Good – Feel Good"

Written by: Lyn MacLean 

PRETTY IS PINK Boutique is being highlighted for our second in the series of “Shop Local” for the holidays. 

New York City fashion lives right here at 480 King Street, Franklin. This women’s clothing boutique has been located in Franklin for over TWENTY years!  

Pretty is Pink’s motto is "Look Good – Feel Good". Any woman will do just that by shopping a wide selection of crew and funnel neck sweaters, slip, mini, and smocked dresses, knit wraps, and straight, flare, and wide-leg pants and jeans.  Complimenting these clothing choices, you will also find crossbody, clutch, tote, and shoulder handbags. Accessories such as jewelry, and fun-colored winter hats with coordinating mittens would make a perfect gift for teens or teachers at a perfect gift giving price point. Lastly, tucked among the amazing clothing selections lies a beautiful woven plush paw blanket that would be the perfect gift for any animal lover on your list.    

Do you have a holiday party you need something special for? Look no further as an abundance of sparkle was seen to make your ensemble stand out from the crowd. Dusters, dresses, and blouses with shine and sparkle were plentiful. 
Personal, individualized service is the hallmark of this store. The employees get to know their customers directly. They learn the preferences of their clients and if desired will provide feedback about the fit and overall look of each item tried on. 

A customer profile can be kept on file with the client's purchased sizes and items so if and when new items arrive that they may like, the client can be updated and suggestions can be made for these new items as soon as they hit the selling floor. 

Do you have little ones that deter you from trying to shop in-store?  Pretty is Pink has you covered. To allow you time to focus on shopping, the store offers a sip-and-shop beverage bar that allows little ones to sit in a comfortable chair with hot chocolate and a selection of pink starbursts and Hershey’s chocolate kisses.  They can unwrap these treats to allow you time to find that special item you’ve been looking for.  To top off your shopping experience everything is gift-wrapped for free! 

To keep on top of all events and sale promotions you can add your contact information to their list. You will receive an email or text every Thursday with the current promotion that they offer each week. For example, last week they sent a text to notify subscribers of a customer appreciation flash sale on the "day of" for 30% off Haute Shore handbags. Customers flocked to the store that day to take advantage of the fabulous savings. 

The upcoming "PINK FRIDAY" will be on Friday, November 26. Serving Bubbly and treats while you shop with special promotions announced that day. 

And don’t forget that Pretty is Pink is participating in the Franklin First Gift Cards which can be purchased in person at Dean Bank or www.franklingiftcard.com

These are a perfect “PINK” idea for hostesses, husbands, fathers, and anyone who wants their special person to make their own selection.  Make your gift-giving local, quick and easy. 

The hours of operation from now until the end of the year will be Monday-Wednesday and Friday 10-5, Thursday extended hours 10-7, and Sunday 12-4.  The store is open 7 days a week.  Online purchases can also be made at www.prettyispink.com

Shop Local at the PRETTY IS PINK Boutique and "Look Good – Feel Good"
Shop Local at the PRETTY IS PINK Boutique and "Look Good – Feel Good" (image courtesy of Pretty Is Pink Facebook page)


Attention Franklin: Multiple Job Opportunities to work for the Town of Franklin

Job Opportunities

To apply for a vacant position, please submit a resume and cover letter to apply@franklinma.gov.  Please put the job title in the subject line of your email. 

Payroll Administrator - Finance Department

Heavy Motor Equipment Operator - Department of Public Works

Part-Time and Substitute Custodians - Facilities Department 

If you do not have a resume, you may send a completed Application for Employment instead.

To receive notifications of all job opportunities in the Town of Franklin, subscribe here.

Shared from -> https://www.franklinma.gov/human-resources/pages/job-opportunities

Attention Franklin: Multiple Job Opportunities to work for the Town of Franklin
Attention: Multiple Job Opportunities to work for the Town of Franklin

Reminder: Christmas on the Common - Sunday, Nov 27 at 4 PM

For the young and young at heart, Santa arrives on the Town Common, Sunday, Nov 27, 2022 at 4 PM. He is reported to be arriving via a special Franklin fire truck. Will Mrs. Claus be with him too?

Christmas on the Town Common - Nov 27 at 4 PM
Christmas on the Town Common - Nov 27 at 4 PM


Sponsored by Concerts on the Common. Donations to help with this and the Town Common decorations are appreciated. Checks can be mailed to 
"Concerts on the Common"
PO Box 92
Franklin, MA 02038
Download the flyer as a reminder of this special event

The SAFE Coalition announces receipt of a 2 year $300,00 grant to support substance use cessation program

The SAFE Coalition today announced that they are the recipient of a 2 year, $300,000 grant from the Bingham Trust. This funding will directly support the Up In Smoke: substance use cessation program for any teen, in any community, between the ages of 14-18.

This three-day program will allow students to learn why they are using, hear from other local peers in recovery, and develop wellness recovery action plans to utilize after they have graduated from the program.

"Our mission is to listen to the needs of the community and develop programs for families to support those needs. Every day we hear from families and school systems about the need for teen support related to substance use and most specifically vaping" says Jennifer Levine, CEO and co-founder of The SAFE Coalition. "This funding will increase access for teens in any community to engage in evidence supported, SEL focused learned related to why they are using substances. We are so thankful to the Bingham Trust for this opportunity and are excited to begin to support our adolescents with their recovery!"

Features and benefits include
  • Suspension Alternative - This program can be used as suspension alternative for teens
  • Trained facilitator - SAFE facilitator has been trained in each modality of support
  • Transportation - If a teen would like to attend, transportation can be provided
  • Food Access - All snacks, waters, and lunch are provided
  • Peer Support and Counseling- Referrals to in-house services for teens and family

Availability
This program will run weekly, Tuesday- Thursday from 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM


About the SAFE Coalition:
SAFE is a judgement free community organization relentlessly committed to educating and supporting those affected by substance use disorder and mental health concerns across southeastern Massachusetts. Staffed by trusted, trained professionals and peer support volunteers, SAFE compassionately empowers individuals and their loved ones by breaking down barriers to treatment and emotional support in a way that inspires success on the journey to recovery.
 
The SAFE Coalition announces receipt of a 2 year $300,00 grant
The SAFE Coalition announces receipt of a 2 year $300,00 grant

"The Catholic Faith Explained" is explored by St Mary's Women's Faith Formation - Dec 14

The St Mary's Franklin Women's Faith Formation group is pleased to announce that we will be viewing the Symbolon series: "The Catholic Faith Explained" by Dr. Edward Sri.  

This series from the Augustine Institute consists of ten videos on a variety of topics. We will view one 1/2 hour video each session and allow time for discussion and sharing.  

Our meetings will be via Zoom and are held on the second Wednesday of the month from 7 - 8 PM. Our next meeting is scheduled for December 14th.  

Please visit our web page (https://www.stmarysfranklin.org/womens-faith-formation)  for further information and to access the Zoom link. 

All women are welcome to attend!

Invisible People TV: "Veteran Homelessness: The War is Far from Over"

"Midterm election season has come to a close. Would-be leaders have engaged in heated debates. Maps of the United States have been posted online, stenciled, and colored in patriotic hues, the country taking on its patchwork of differing political opinions by presenting it to the public as a digital, color-coded pictogram.

Still, this is only part of the story.

As political ads fade back into the background and newly elected leaders take their posts, many of the diplomatic talking points that drove those campaigns will also dissipate, lost in the sea of social justice hashtags.

One of the biggest debates to take center stage in major metropolitan areas was homelessness. The discussion has captivated public interest in the wake of skyrocketing rents, astronomical housing prices, and unprecedented inflation levels. While the subjects of shelter beds, sweeps, and supportive housing fueled fiery discord across party lines, whether any of those words will give way to action remains a lingering hope yet to be seen."
Continue reading the article online at Invisible People TV ->

Credit Image: © Kenneth Martin/ZUMA Wire
Credit Image: © Kenneth Martin/ZUMA Wire

Town Council recognizes Carloni, appoints Wallace, approves license for La Cantina, hears from the Recreation Dept, and more at their Wednesday meeting (audio)

FM #883 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 883 in the series. 


This session of the radio show shares the Town Council meeting held in Council Chambers on Wednesday, October 16, 2022. 7 members of the Council were present in the Council Chambers, one member remote (Frongillo) and one member absent (Dellorco), hence all votes were via roll call.

Quick summary of meeting:

  • The meeting opened with recognition of Becki Carloni of the Franklin Fire Department for her off duty life saving effort at a sporting event.

  • The appointment of Alison Wallace to the Library Board of Directors was approved.

  • The Special License to allow sale of wine at 2022-2023 Franklin Winter Farmers’ Market by La Cantina Winery Company was approved. The first market is this Saturday from 10 AM to 2 PM.

  • Ryan Jette, Director of Recreation provided an update on the operation of the Recreation Department including near term plans and future plans.

  • There was also a discussion on the approach to determine the reuse of Davis Thayer. Consensus was to set up a Reuse Committee of town folks interested in this building and location to make a proposal to the Council for approval. Details on the volunteer application process will be forthcoming and the process will kick off sometime in 2023.

  • Legislation to approve of an increase to the minimum wage for both the senior citizen and veterans tax work off programs was approved.

  • Legislation to adjust the budget with some transfers and final numbers of state aid, etc. was approved. This had been previewed by the Finance Committee in their meeting last week and unanimously recommended. This adjustment step was needed before the tax rate is set. The hearing for the tax rate is scheduled for the Nov 30 Town Council meeting.

  • The Franklin Open Space and Recreation Plan Kickoff Process has begun. The Conservation Commission will lead this effort to update the plan.

The recording runs just about 2 hours and 18 minutes, so let’s listen to the Town Council meeting on October 16, 2022.


Audio file -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-883-town-council-mtg-11-16-22



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


The agenda and documents released for this session can be found  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/november_16_town_council_agenda.pdf


The Franklin TV video replay of the meeting is available on YouTube https://youtu.be/v_88xT1K7mU


My notes captured via Twitter during the meeting can be found in one PDF document -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Kcsiah2iONeLXjpPRlc9dOSEKNKpx8AQ/view?usp=share_link



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


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!

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


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


firefighter/paramedic Becki Carloni Listens to Councilor Pellegri read the proclamation
firefighter/paramedic Becki Carloni Listens to Councilor Pellegri read the proclamation

Economic Development Subcmte recommends next lot line changes; the "Plus" Cmte gets into housing density proposal, will pick up again at Nov 30 meeting (audeo)

FM #882 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 847 in the series. 


This session of the radio show shares the audio recording of the Economic Development Subcommittee meeting held on Wednesday, Nov 16, 2022 in the Council Chambers.  


“Franklin For All” Steering Committee (or EDC Plus)

Chair Melanie Hamblen, Glenn Jones, Cobi Frongillo, Pat Sheridan

Greg Rondeau, Beth Wierling, and Bruce Hunchard

 

First - purely an economic development item - the next set of lot line zoning map adjustments. A continuing project and this is the next set of changes. The item after discussion was recommended to the Council for review and consideration.

 

Second - for the Plus side of the committee as it attempted to cover two zooning bylaw proposals that are an outcome of the Franklin For All study as well as part of the MBTA Community planning required. The committee got into a good discussion on one of the two changes proposed, did not get into the second and will pick up the discussion at their Nov 30 meeting.


The recording of the meeting runs just over an hour

Audio file -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-882-economic-development-subcmte-plus-mtg-11-16-22


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


The EDC Agenda and released documents ->

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/11-16-22_edc_agenda.pdf

 

My notes captured via Twitter during the meeting are found in one threaded PDF file -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Bi19ZIVetLhT2xN0aeJcbltU72XRlZe0/view?usp=share_link

 

Franklin TV's video replay of this session is available ->

https://youtu.be/ZntsmoNK7ss


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


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!

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


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

 
the "Plus" Cmte gets into housing density proposal
the "Plus" Cmte gets into housing density proposal


Town of Franklin: Municipal Building - closing at Noon 11/23/22 & All Schools Closed 11/23/22

1 - Town of Franklin

The Franklin Municipal Building will CLOSE EARLY on Wednesday, November 23, 2022 at 12:00 PM and remain closed through Friday, November 25, 2022 in observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday
We will reopen on Monday, November 28, 2022

Shared from -> https://www.franklinma.gov/home/news/franklin-municipal-building-closure-november-23rd-2022-1200pm 

Franklin Municipal Building CLOSURE - November 23, 2022 at 12:00 PM
Franklin Municipal Building CLOSURE - November 23, 2022 at 12:00 PM

2 - Franklin Public Schools

All Franklin Public Schools will be CLOSED Wednesday, November 23 - November 25 in observance of the holiday. We will reopen on Monday, November 28th, 2022. 
Shared from ->   https://twitter.com/FranklinPSNews/status/1594774651691057152


All Schools Closed 11/23/22
All Schools Closed 11/23/22

 

Mass Legislature Passes Bill to Prevent Student Loan-related License Revocation

Bill will prevent individuals with outstanding student loan debt from having their  

professional licenses revoked 

 

On Monday, November 21, the Massachusetts Legislature passed legislation to prevent individuals who default on their student loans from having their license or professional certification revoked as a result. As of Fall 2022, approximately one million Massachusetts residents hold a combined total of nearly $31 billion dollars in federal student loan debt, with an average debt of $34,146 per borrower. 

  

"Student loan debt disproportionately affects young, low-income individuals who are making the kinds of investments in their future that we should be encouraging," said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). "Revoking professional licenses that they obtained with a student loan does nothing to solve the problem of loan defaults, and it actively makes the problem worse by preventing new professionals from having the means to pay off their loans. I want to thank Senator Eldridge for his attention and determination in seeing this common-sense bill over the finish line." 

  

"I am proud to announce that the Senate has passed the license revocation ban bill, known as an act prohibiting license revocation for student loan default. Nearly one million Massachusetts residents are struggling because of student loans. As the federal moratorium approaches its end, we must recognize Covid-19's continuous impact on employment and borrowers' financial situations," said Senator Jamie Eldridge (D-Acton), Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on the Judiciary. "The bill will ensure that borrowers, who are heavily burdened by student loans, can still continue their career and work towards repayments of their educational loans. Thank you to Representative Higgins for her leadership on filing and fighting for this legislation. Congratulations to the hard-working advocates, and staff." 

 

Under current Massachusetts law, residents can have their licenses or professional certification revoked, denied, or refused for renewal as a result of defaulting on their student loan debt. Massachusetts is one of only 14 states with such a law. The bill does away with the law and blocks any state agency or board of registration from denying or revoking any license or professional or occupational certificate or registration based on an individual's default on an educational loan. 

 

The bill does not change the state's ability to use traditional loan collection tools. 

 

Having previously passed both the Senate and the House of Representatives, the bill goes to the Governor for his consideration. 


Mass Legislature Passes Bill to Prevent Student Loan-related License Revocation
Mass Legislature Passes Bill to Prevent Student Loan-related License Revocation

Franklin TV and wfpr.fm schedule for Tuesday, Nov 22, 2022

  •  wfpr.fm or 102.9 on the FM dial = Tuesday

9:00 AM 12:00 Noon and 6:00 PM  Jazz Journey – with Pamela Hines
2 hours. An insightful tour of Jazz Greats in a golden era

11:00 AM 2 PM and 8:00 PM SAFE Radio– Jim Derick and Dr. Anne Bergen Addressing issues of Drug Abuse Disorder 

  • Franklin All Access TV - Our Public Access Channel (Comcast 8, Verizon 26) = TUESDAY

7:00 am Second Sunday Speaker Series: Ted Reinstein
9:00 am It Takes A Village: 40 Percent Club
10:00 am Frank Presents: Caron Grupposo
11:00 am Sons & Daughters of Italy: Ciambotta
11:30 am Senior Connection: Maggie Gundersen
12:10 pm Brook'n'Cookin: Brownies
12:40 pm Sandhya: Eclairs
1:30 pm Pizzapalooza: Emergency Pizza
2:00 pm New England Candlepins: Fall 2019 Show 6
3:00 pm Candlepin New Generation: Show 9
3:30 pm The Only Cure Is Education
4:00 pm Battleship Cove: Inside the History Pt. 2
4:30 pm Extended Play Sessions: Roberto Morbioli
5:30 pm Physician Focus: Electronic Medical Records
6:00 pm Metrowest Symposium: Festivals & Community Celebrations
7:30 pm Joe Landry: Downtown Franklin
9:00 pm Franklin Cultural Council: Pamela Means

  • Franklin Pride TV - Our Educational Channel (Comcast 96, Verizon 28) = TUESDAY

7:00 am Public School Event: Annie Sullivan Winter Music 2021
9:00 am Public School Event: Horace Mann Winter Music 2021
11:00 am Arts Advocacy: Fundraising
12:00 pm Public School Concert: MICCA Showcase Pt. 1 03-14-18
2:00 pm It Takes A Village: Ethan Dimarino
3:00 pm FHS Varsity Volleyball: v Barnstable 11-12-22
5:30 pm FHS Boys Varsity Soccer v St. John's Shrewsbury 11-13-22
7:30 pm Battleship Cove: Inside the History Pt. 2
8:00 pm FHS Girls Varsity Soccer v Wellesley 11-10-22

  • Franklin Town Hall TV - Our Government Channel (Comcast 11, Verizon 29) = TUESDAY

8:00 am School Committee: 11-08-22
12:00 pm Finance Committee: 11-09-22
2:00 pm School Committee: 11-08-22
7:00 pm School Committee: LIVE, Chambers, 834 7439 4485 Code; 969901


Get this week's program guide for Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) online  http://franklin.tv/programguide.pdf 

Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm)
Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm)