Thursday, February 28, 2013

Get your hats ready!

The Parmenter School is celebrating Hat Day on Friday, March 1.

What hat would you wear?

Governor Patrick: New Online Map Shows Transportation, Education Investments

Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:

via Commonwealth Conversations: Transportation by Klark Jessen on 2/27/13

Governor Patrick, 2013Governor Deval Patrick today unveiled an online map tool that shows members of the public, in real terms, what investing in growth and opportunity will mean for their communities.
"This tool will help people see exactly what to expect in their own backyard as part of the investments we've proposed," said Governor Patrick. "Meaningful investments in education and transportation today will significantly improve our economic future both in the short term and for generations to come."

Each map outlines transportation projects in every community that would be funded under the Governor's FY14 budget proposal, as well as the additional Chapter 70 education funding and support for public colleges and universities communities can expect to receive under the Governor's investment plan. The maps also show how many children in each community are on the waitlist for early education and care programs. As part of the Governor's investment plan, the 30,000 child waitlist for early education and care programs across the state would be eliminated.  

Each of the 400 maps in total, representing both Senate and House districts, can be found at www.mass.gov/governor/choosegrowth. There are two maps per district – one displaying transportation investments and one displaying education investments in each community.   
Governor Patrick's budget plan includes a $1 billion annual investment in the Commonwealth's transportation system to maintain the current transportation assets we have today and launch a number of high-impact transportation projects across Massachusetts that, if built, will create thousands of jobs and spur economic development across the Commonwealth. The plan also includes a $550 million investment in education, reaching $1 billion over four years, to provide universal access to high quality early education for children across the state, from birth through age five; fully fund K-12 education and allow for extended school days in high-need schools; make college more affordable and accessible for high school graduates; and allow our community colleges to expand their efforts to provide students with the knowledge and skill training needed to succeed in the workplace.

Check out the 21st Century Transportation Plan "The Way Forward" and the Governor's Choosing Growth website.

Things you can do from here:


The map for education in Rep Roy's 10th Norfolk district is shown here



The map for transportation in Rep Roy's 10th Norfolk district is shown here



Visit the Governor's links as outlined in the article above for additional maps

Steel rising

The steel is rising on the construction site for the new high school. The Milford Daily News provides an update in part by writing:
At the muddy construction site, steel beams and columns rise toward the sky and crisscross each other, giving passersby a glimpse at the school’s skeletal frame. 
Next comes the metal decking for the roof, and then masons will arrive to place the brick and outside walls. 
Project officials have projected the next phase of construction to start in August. 
"The schedule has us being roof-tight for next winter," Mercer said, "which means the outside masonry work would all be done, (and) the roof would be done, so the crews can work through the winter inside."


Read more: http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/x898139638/Snowy-stormy-month-doesnt-impede-progress-for-new-Franklin-High#ixzz2MBmU8jqB

Jefferson PCC fundraiser at 99 Restaurant


This Thursday, February 28th is the Dine for a Cause fundraiser at Restaurant 99. Join us at Restaurant 99 in Franklin to benefit the Jefferson Elementary PCC! If you're still recovering from vacation last week or just looking to spend a family night out, we'd love to see you there.

Visit anytime between 11:00am and 10:30pm and let them know you're there for Jefferson.

Come support our Franklin community!



Wednesday, February 27, 2013

Pies for feet


The dance teams at Feet In Motion (FIM) are currently selling pies from the Ever So Humble Pie Company (Walpole, MA) to help raise funds for their trip to Disney in July. You can find the order form below.

The orders are due March 6th.
They can be dropped off at the FIM Studio (there is a bin inside on a table labeled Pie Orders) or mailed so long as they arrive in time (by March 6th). If paying by check, please make the check out to Lori Kelly, one of the moms on the booster organization. Humble Pie has requested only one check upon payment.

The pies can be picked up Saturday, March 23
From the studio, specific time TBD but likely around 10:00 AM to noon.

The address:
Feet in Motion
250 East Central St. #1
Franklin, MA 02038
c/o FIM Dance Team Boosters

Any questions can be sent to this email address: fimdisney@yahoo.com.

In the News: rabies clinic, scholarship money



Rabies clinic held March 23 in Franklin

The Franklin Dog Kennel, 15 Public Works Way, will offer a rabies clinic from 9 a.m. until noon on Saturday, March 23.



FHS senior wins scholarship money in Saturday contest

West Bridgewater resident won this year’s Distinguished Young Woman competition, held Saturday night at the Thomas D. Mercer Auditorium.


Franklin Library: Fun Club - LEGOs

Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:

via Franklin Public Library by Franklin Public Library on 2/26/13



Things you can do from here:

Safe Routes to School: Bicycle Poster Contest

Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:

via Commonwealth Conversations: Transportation by Klark Jessen on 2/26/13


Bike Poster Contest, February 26, 2013 MassDOT's Massachusetts Safe Routes to School program is providing the opportunity for 5th grade students across the Commonwealth to participate in a national Bikes Make Life Better poster contest.

The contest supports MassDOT and Safe Routes to School goals by encouraging students to recognize biking as an active and sustainable transportation option that benefits their physical health and community. Saris Cycling Group, a manufacturer of bicycle racks and cycling training products, hosts the contest annually.

Participating schools will submit entries to the Massachusetts Safe Routes to School program by April 1.  A first place winner will be selected to represent the Commonwealth in the national contest and receive a new bike provided by Saris Cycling Group. Second and Third Place winners will receive gear to make their bike ride safer and fun. The Massachusetts first place winner will then compete for the national prize - a chance to attend the 2014 National Bike Summit in Washington DC and an exclusive bicycle parking and tracking system known as The Hub for their school!

Tips & Tools to Participate
  • Every entry must be original artwork created by a student who is currently in the 5th grade at a Massachusetts Safe Routes to School Partner location. 
  • Poster entries must be related to the contest theme: Bikes Make Life BetterThe themed title must also appear on the poster. All words must be spelled correctly.
  • Be sure to adhere to the contest's very specific rules for poster design and layout found on the Saris website.
  • Invite your SRTS Outreach Coordinator to host a bike safety assembly for your school's 5th grade class. Students can then create posters based on what they learned about bicycling.
  • Create buzz about the contest in your classroom by hanging up flyers to promote this exciting opportunity to your 5th grade students!
  • A completed permission slip must accompany all entries to be considered for the three state prizes.
Contact Massachusetts Safe Routes to School for more information!

Things you can do from here:

Tuesday, February 26, 2013

Upcoming Networking Lunch, General Meeting

Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:

via Franklin Downtown Partnership by noreply@blogger.com (Franklin Downtown Partnership) on 2/25/13


Dear FDP Members:
We have an exciting presentation planned for the FDP General Meeting on Thursday, March 7th.  Trish White will be presenting "Strategic Marketing Using Social Media". If you are a small business owner you will not want to miss this!

Presentation will begin at 8:30 AM at Dean College, Golder RoomWe will discuss:
1. New trends in social media for 2013
2. What is SEO - search engine optimization?
3. Is blogging important?
4. Using social networks to engage with your customer base
5. A few (amazing) Google Business Tools
We hope to see all of you there to learn more...

FDP Networking Luncheon Reminder:
This Friday, March 1st is the FDP Networking Luncheon
1:00 PM at Dean College Campus Center Dining Hall

$5.50 for a great lunch!

Come meet new members!  Bring your business cards!
Please RSVP Joel Carrara at jcarrara@printsmartoffice.com



Things you can do from here:

Franklin Library: Craft Circle

Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:

via Franklin Public Library by Franklin Public Library on 2/25/13



Things you can do from here:

Monday, February 25, 2013

Solar Anniversary Celebration - rescheduled

If you wanted to help celebrate the 1 year anniversary of the solar panels at the First Universalist Society of Franklin and stayed indoors due to the changeable weather on Sunday, you didn't miss anything.

Solar Anniversary Celebration poster

The event was rescheduled to Sunday, March 17th at 11:45 AM.

Maybe the luck of the Irish will bring better weather to celebrate the solar installation!



Want to check on how much energy their system has created?
https://enlighten.enphaseenergy.com/public/systems/vGRK57403



Current Triangle Signs

The signs at the downtown  triangle where West Central St and Main St meet at the railroad bridge have been changed recently.

The Franklin School for the Performing Arts is advertising their production of "The Sound of Music" which will be held this Saturday, Mar 2 at 7:00 PM and Sunday Mar 3 at 2:00 PM.

You can get tickets online at the FPSA webpage

FSPA - "Sound of Music"

Registration for the Franklin Chargers Pop Warner football and cheerleading teams begins March 1. You can find more additional information and register online at the Franklin Chargers webpage  http://www.franklinchargers.net/


Franklin Chargers registration opens Mar 1

Franklin Library: eReaders

Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:

via Franklin Public Library by Franklin Public Library on 2/23/13



Things you can do from here:

Hockomock League Playoff Previews



Hockomock League Playoff Preview: Girls Basketball





Sunday, February 24, 2013

Attention: Parking Ban Reminder


Winter Storm Overnight Parking Ban Effective from October 15 to April 15

The purpose of the winter storm overnight parking ban shall be to provide for the safe movement of police, fire and emergency medical service vehicles during snow and ice storms and otherwise provide for public safety during winter weather conditions. The parking ban shall also serve to enhance the capability of the Public Works Department to remove snow and ice from the roadways effectively and efficiently.

A winter storm overnight parking ban shall automatically take effect upon occurrence of any of
the following: Snow, sleet, or freezing rain has fallen, or is imminent.

The National Weather Service and/or local television and/or radio stations or other media are
reporting commencement of snow, sleet, or freezing rain within the local area or are predicting
that snow, sleet, or freezing rain will begin in Franklin within 12 hours.

The parking of any motor vehicle within the layout or right of way of any public street or any
roadway open to the public is prohibited between the hours of 1:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. while a
winter storm parking ban is in effect.

The Franklin Police Department shall enforce the provisions of this article and shall be solely
responsible for issuance of tickets and authorization of towing.

This e-mail has been sent to you by TOWN OF FRANKLIN. To maximize their communication with you, you may be receiving this e-mail in addition to a phone call with the same message. If you wish to discontinue this service, please inform TOWN OF FRANKLIN either IN PERSON, by US MAIL, or by TELEPHONE at 508-520-4938 or REPLY TO THIS EMAIL.

Pour Richard's Wine and Spirits (photo essay)




Pour Richard's logo



I met Ann Williams at a networking event with the Downtown Partnership. I recalled the license transfer coming before the Town Council. They had purchased the license for the store by the Dunkin Donuts on King St and were moving into larger space on Grove St. Shortly after they opened I stopped by to visit and then returned again Saturday to take some better photos. I met John Wass on Saturday and he graciously sent along the JPG for their logo so I could share it here.





Where are they located? 14 Grove St


View Larger Map


When driving west along RT 140 and cross the i495 bridge, turn left at Grove St. Turning right would bring you to the 99 Restaurant, BJ's and the train station. Pour Richard's will be located just past the MassHighway facility on your left before the railroad tracks.

PourRichards_StreetView
View from Grove Street

The Pour Richard's store front

PourRichards_Front
Pour Richard's store front view


They have an interesting way to display their wine. These racks allow the bottles to lie down and yet be visually appealing.

PourRichards_WineRacks
Pour Richard's wine racks

Per Ann, the rack allows for most bottles sizes to fit. They go one step further to help the shopper and write some notes about many of the wines.While they will generally be attentive to the shopper, this helps the shopper browse on their own.


PourRichards_WineNotes
informative notes on the wine

For the beer section, they will focus on local and craft beers. Ann proudly posed with a new sign for Narragansett, a classic beer from Rhode Island.

PourRichards_Narragansett
new Narragansett sign to be hung soon

The craft beer section features sturdy shelving and a refrigerator for some chilling beers. They will do beer tastings on Friday nights. The beer from Ispwich Ale Brewery is being featured Friday, March 1. Stop by after 5:00 PM, try a sample and if it meets your taste and budget, take some home.

PourRichards_CraftBeer
craft beer shelving

Don't forget to stop by the "Bargain Boat" to see what is available.

PourRichards_BargainBoat
bargain boat

For additional information about Pour Richard's you can visit their webpage http://pourrichardswine.com/

or find them on Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Pour-Richards-Wine-Spirits/289432037843639?fref=ts


Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - Feb 26, 2013


Vision Statement
The Franklin Public Schools will foster within its students the knowledge and skills to find and achieve satisfaction in life as productive global citizens.

"The listing of matters are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair which may be discussed at the meeting. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by law."

1. Routine Business
Citizen’s Comments
Review of Agenda
Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the February 12, 2013 School Committee Meeting.
Payment of Bills Mrs. McIntyre
Payroll Mrs. Douglas
FHS Student Representatives
Correspondence: none

2. Guests/Presentations
a. Joe Zazza – Retired Parmenter Custodian
b. Remington Middle School Update

3. Discussion Only Items
Policy – Second Reading
o JLCCB – Wellness Policy

4. Action Items
a. I recommend adoption of JLCCB – Wellness Policy as discussed.
b. I recommend acceptance of a check for $59.68 from Ohiopyle Prints, Inc. for in-house enrichment at Franklin High School.
c. I recommend approval of the Budget Transfers as detailed.
d. I recommend acceptance of a check for $100.00 from Linda Baccei for a FHS scholarship.
e. I recommend acceptance of a check for $30.00 from Peter & Frances Currul for a FHS scholarship.
f. I recommend acceptance of a check for $25.00 from Randall & Barbara Berndt for a FHS scholarship.
g. I recommend acceptance of a check for $50.00 from Donna & Clement Brunelli for a FHS scholarship.

5. Information Matters
Superintendent’s Report
School Committee Sub-Committee Reports
School Committee Liaison Reports

6. New Business
To discuss future business that may be brought before the School Committee.

7. Executive Session
Contractual Negotiations

8. Adjourn

In the News: Sound of Music, Best Buddies



Real-life Maria stars in 'The Sound of Music' in Franklin

Erica Glenn had been preparing to play the role of Maria long before joining the cast of "The Sound of Music’’ in the Franklin Performing Arts Company’s coming production.



Spinners ride for Best Buddies program in Franklin

The Best Buddies program seeks to help socialize people with developmental disabilities and develop friendships and understanding.

Hockomock Hockey Playoff Seeds Released

Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:

via Hockomock Sports - Blog on 2/23/13


The MIAA has announced the seeds for the hockey playoffs.

D2 South
#1 Canton vs. Winner of #14 #9 Milford/#8 North Attleboro. 
#4 Oliver Ames vs. #13 Dennis Yarmouth (@ Gallo), Wedneday, 2/27, TBA.  
#11 King Philip vs. #6 Mansfield (@ Aleixo), Wednesday, 2/27, 7:30. 
#7 Franklin vs. #10 Plymouth South, day, date, time TBA.  
#9 Milford @ #8 North Attleboro (@ Aleixo), Thursday, 2/28, 7:30. 

D3 South
#17 Attleboro vs. #16 Pembroke (@ Gallo), Monday, 2/25, 7:30
#25 Foxboro vs. #8 Silver Lake (@ Driscoll), Monday, 2/25, 5:30

Things you can do from here:

Franklin Library: Krafty Mondays - Ductivities

Here is an activity that sounds like fun. Go duct tape!

Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:

via Franklin Public Library by Franklin Public Library on 2/22/13



Things you can do from here:

Saturday, February 23, 2013

Hockomock Basketball Playoff Schedule - 1st Round



Hockomock Boys Basketball Playoff Seeds Released


The MIAA has announced the seeds for the basketball playoffs.

D1 South
#1 Mansfield vs. Winner of  #17 Newton South @ #16 West Roxbury. Mansfield will play at home, Thursday, 2/28 at 7:00. 
#7 Taunton vs.  #10 Catholic Memorial, Thursday, 2/28, 7:00 p.m.
#9 Franklin @ #8 Barnstable, Thursday, 2/28, 7:00 p.m.

D2 South
#12 Sharon @ #5 Silver Lake, Thursday, 2/28, 7:00.
#17 Oliver Ames @ #16 Falmouth, Tuesday, 2/26, 7:00 p.m.

D3 South
#17 Foxboro @ #16 Norwell, Monday, 2/25, 7:00. 
#21 Canton @ #12 Abington, Monday, 2/25, 7:00. 

D1 Central

#3 Milford vs. Winner of #11 Westboro @ #6 South High. Milford will play at home, Thursday, 2/28 at 7:00. 




The MIAA has announced the seeds for the girls basketball playoffs.

D1 South
#3 North Attleboro vs. Winner of #14 Attleboro/#19 Brockton. 
#4 Franklin vs. #13 Needham, Wednesday, 2/27, 7:00 p.m. 
#10 Stoughton @ #7 Plymouth South, Wednesday, 2/27, 7:00 p.m. 
#14 Attleboro vs. #19 Brockton, Monday, 2/25, 7:00 p.m.
#16 Taunton vs. #17 Newton South, Monday, 2/25, 7:00 p.m. 

D2 South
#1 Oliver Ames vs. Winner of #16 Notre Dame Academy & #17 Plymouth North. OA will play at home, Wednesday, 2/27 at 7:00. 
#8 Foxboro vs. #9 Holliston, Wednesday, 2/27, 7:00 p.m.
#12 Sharon vs. Fontbonne Academy @ Quincy High School, Wednesday, 2/27, 7:00 p.m. 


In the News: distinguished, NationalGrid, i495



Teens vie in Franklin to be 'Distinguished'

When it’s time for her turn on the stage, Franklin High senior Melissa Mandia hopes to dazzle both audience and judges with a rendition of "I Want To Be A Rockette."



National Grid preparing for possible snow storm

With another potentially severe snow storm on the way, National Grid Friday said its workers have already begun preparing for possible scattered power outages this weekend.



Accident closes two lanes on I-495 in Franklin

Two lanes are closed on I-495 southbound at exit 16 in Franklin because of an accident, MassHighway is reporting.



MassBudget: Health Care in the Gov's Budget Proposal



MassBudget    Information.
   Participation.
 Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center    Democracy.
Health Care in the Governor's Budget
A new factsheet, The Governor's FY 2014 House 1 Budget Proposal, describes the Governor's proposal for MassHealth (Medicaid) and other subsidized health coverage programs. The budget proposes $13.6 billion in funding for MassHealth and other subsidized health coverage programs and related activities, which is an increase of $1 billion from FY 2013 spending.

The proposal reflects the major changes that will occur when key provisions of the federal Affordable Care Act (ACA) take effect in January 2014. In addition, the governor's FY 2014 budget proposal includes funding for MassHealth hospital rate increases, restoration of adult dental benefits, delivery system changes (including alternative payment methodologies) and MassHealth administrative simplification initiatives.

This budget brief is the first in a series of fact sheets which will describe the effect of each budget proposal on Health Care programs in Massachusetts. These briefs are produced by the Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center in partnership with the Massachusetts Law Reform Institute--and published by the Massachusetts Medicaid Policy Institute (MMPI).




Minimum Wage in Massachusetts

As the minimum wage once again becomes a topic of statewide and national interest, we wanted to remind you of our recent work on the Massachusetts minimum wage. This includes:
The Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center (MassBudget) produces policy research, analysis, and data-driven recommendations focused on improving the lives of low- and middle-income children and adults, strengthening our state's economy, and enhancing the quality of life in Massachusetts.

MASSACHUSETTS BUDGET AND POLICY CENTER
15 COURT SQUARE, SUITE 700
BOSTON, MA 02108
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Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center | 15 Court Square | Suite 700 | Boston | MA | 02108

Friday, February 22, 2013

Reading for Friday: Focus on food



Misleading Food Product Roundup II: Don’t Be Fooled

Today I am once again posting a "roundup" of the misleading food products I frequently share on Facebook...just in case you missed some of these or need a friendly reminder (or simply don't use Facebook)


The horsemeat scandal–an object lesson in food politics

The unfolding drama around Europe’s horsemeat scandal is a case study in food politics and the politics of cultural identity.
Cultural identity?  They (other people) eat horsemeat.  We don’t. 


Mrs. Fields Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Cookies

Ever wish you could have your favorite Mrs. Fields chocolate chip cookies now that you’re gluten free? Now you can, with this easy gluten free copycat recipe. Mrs. Fields Who?



A Campaign to Build School Gardens