Hardy spirits rose to run the St Pat's 5K in Franklin (photo essay and video of race start)

Timed my Sunday walk to catch some photos and a video of the start of the Franklin Police and Fire St Patrick's 5K race/walk. 

the start and finish was on Constitution Blvd

Town Council Chair Matt Kelly with a word of thanks to the police and fire first responders
and encouragement for the runners/walkers

the moment of silence and National Anthem before the race start

'Old Glory" billowing on the cold Sunday  winter morning

Results of the race/walk can be found here
http://www.coolrunning.com/results/17/ma/Mar19_Frankl_set1.shtml

Economic Development Subcommittee Meeting - Agenda - March 22

Economic Development Subcommittee Meeting
March 22, 2017

6:15 PM - Room 205

Agenda

1. Approval of Minutes

2. Zoning proposal:
a. Brewery, Winery, Distillery Manufacturing with Tasting Room


This was shared from the Town of Franklin webpage
http://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/edc_agenda_3-22-17.pdf

how much has the snow budget been for the winter of 2016-2017?

FHS athletes represented on the Hockomock League Indoor Track All Stars

Below are the official 2017 Hockomock League Boys and Girls Indoor Track All Stars, selected by the coaches in the league

2017 Hockomock League Boys Indoor Track All Stars

HONORABLE MENTIONS = Paul Kroushl, Franklin

2017 Hockomock League Girls Indoor Track All Stars

HOCKOMOCK LEAGUE ALL STARS

• Halle Atkinson, Franklin
• Julia Fenerty, Franklin
• Nicole Clermont, Franklin
• Ella Gutkowski, Franklin
• Emma Clifford, Franklin
• Kate Hartnett, Franklin
• Meghan Doherty, Franklin

HONORABLE MENTIONS = Miranda Smith, Franklin

https://hockomocksports.com/the-2017-hockomock-league-boys-indoor-track-all-stars/

https://hockomocksports.com/2017-hockomock-league-girls-indoor-track-all-stars/

FHS Panthers

Register O'Donnell Reports on February 2017 Real Estate Activity

	Norfolk County Registry of Deeds
	Register O'Donnell Reports on Feb 2017 Real Estate Activity A patch of bad weather and the loss of one critical business day, contributed to the downturn in the Norfolk County real estate and lending markets for the month of February 2017. Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell noted, "The inclement weather in the second week of February and the loss of 1 business day, with February 2016 being a leap year, were primary factors in the reduction of real estate activity. We also noticed a reduced number of high-end sales which contributed to the decline in total volume and average sales price." Register O'Donnell stated, "The month of February saw a 2% reduction in the number of deeds recorded year over year from 1,042 to 1,019. More striking was the total volume of residential and commercial sales coming in at $338 million, a 35% reduction from February 2016. Also, the average sales price, again both residential and commercial, fell 34% to $594,915. Overall, the number of land documents recorded at the Registry during February was 9,905, a 7% reduction from the previous year." The lending market also saw declines during February 2017. A total of 1,691 mortgages were recorded, a 12% reduction from the previous year. The total amount of mortgage borrowing also fell 48% to $700 million; the decline was significantly influenced by a $479 million mortgage recorded in February 2016. Norfolk County homeowners continued to avail themselves of the benefits of the Homestead Act. A total of 674 Homesteads were recorded in February, a 2% increase year over year. "The Homestead law provides limited protection against the forced sale of an individual's primary residence to satisfy unsecured debt up to $500,000. I urge Norfolk County residents to consider this consumer protection tool," noted O'Donnell. A bright spot for February was the reduction in foreclosure activity. A total of 16 foreclosure deeds were recorded compared to 30 the previous February. In addition, the number of Notice to Foreclose Mortgage recordings, the first step in the foreclosure process, was down to 49 filings compared to 55 in February 2016. Register O'Donnell stated, "I remain optimistic that we are now finally turning the corner when it comes to the issues of foreclosure, a significant problem we have steadily faced for nearly a decade. With that said, one foreclosure is one too many. We need to remain diligent that any homeowner facing a challenge with their monthly mortgage payments are getting the help and counseling they need. The Registry continues to work with Quincy Community Action Programs, 617-479-8181 x-376, and NeighborWorks SouthernMass, 508-587-0950 to help homeowners who have received a Notice to Foreclose Mortgage. Another option is to contact the Attorney General's HomeCorps program at 617-573-3333." Register O'Donnell concluded, "While Norfolk County continues to be a destination location for individuals and families to live and work, there are two significant factors that will impact how the housing and lending markets take shape in 2017. One key factor will be the amount of housing inventory available for consumers. The other major issue will be whether or not the Federal Reserve follows through on its promise to increase rates." To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives, like us at facebook.com/NorfolkDeeds or follow us on twitter.com/NorfolkDeeds and Instagram.com/NorfolkDeeds. The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds is located at 649 High Street in Dedham. The Registry is a resource for homeowners, title examiners, mortgage lenders, municipalities and others with a need for secure, accurate, accessible land record information. All land record research information can be found on the Registry's website www.norfolkdeeds.org. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center at (781) 461-6101, or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org. Register William P. O'Donnell Norfolk County Registry of Deeds email: registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org phone: 781-234-3336 web: http://www.norfolkdeeds.org

Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, 649 High Street, Dedham,, MA 02026-1831 Sent by registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org in collaboration with Try it free today

Register O'Donnell Reports on Feb 2017 Real Estate Activity

Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - March 22, 2017

Note: The left column contains links to the supporting documents for each of the agenda sections

A. Approval of Minutes	Approval of March 1, 2017 Meeting Minutes
B. Announcements	This meeting is being recorded by Franklin TV and shown on Comcast channel 11 and Verizon channel 29. This meeting may also be recorded by others.
C. Proclamations/Recognitions
D. Citizen Comments	Citizens are welcome to express their views for up to five minutes on a matter that is not on the Agenda. The Council will not engage in a dialogue or comment on a matter raised during Citizen Comments. The Town Council will give remarks appropriate consideration and may ask the Town Administrator to review the matter.
E. Appointments
F. Hearings	Hearing on Whether to Exercise the Town's First Refusal Option to Purchase Land on Washington Street - 7:10 pm
G. License Transactions	British Beer Company - Change of Manager - 7:10 pm
H. Presentations/Discussions	Auditors
I. Subcommittee Reports	(Update provided during meeting)
J. Legislation for Action
1. Resolution 17-17 Acceptance of Access Easement Over Property at 121 Longhill Road	1. Resolution 17-17: Acceptance of Access Easement Over Property at 121 Longhill Road (Motion to Move Resolution 17-17: Majority vote (5))
2. Resolution 17-18: Order of Franklin Town Council, Exercising Town's G.L. Chapter 61, Section 8 First Refusal Option, Re: Land of William C. Roode and Jeanne M. Roode, Containing Approximately 12.5 Acres on Washing STreet...	2. Resolution 17-18: Order of Franklin Town Council, Exercising Town's G.L. Chapter 61, Section 8 First Refusal Option, RE: Land of William C. Roode and Jeanne M. Roode, Containing Approximately 12.5 Acres on Washington Street, Title Reference: Norfolk Registry of Deeds Book 5501, Page 521 (Motion to Move Resolution 17-18: 2/3/Majority vote (6))
3. Resolution 17-19: Redirect Bond Proceeds	3. Resolution 17-19: Redirect Bond Proceeds (Motion to Move Resolution 17-19: Majority vote (5))
4. Bylaw Amendment 17-787: Chapter 179, Water - 1st Reading (Motion to Move Bylaw Amendment 17-787 to a 2nd Reading: Majority vote (5))	4. Bylaw Amendment 17-787: Chapter 179, Water - 1st Reading (Motion to Move Bylaw Amendment 17-787 to a 2nd Reading: Majority vote (5))
K. Town Administrator's Report	Town Administrator's Report
L. Future Agenda Items	Future Agenda Items
M. Council Comments	Council Comments
N. Executive Session	Executive Session - To discuss strategy with respect to collective bargaining -  all Municipal units
O. Adjourn	O. Adjourn

large street crossing downtown Franklin

Superintendent Search: Candidate Resumes and Remaining Schedule

The resumes of the two candidates for Franklin School Superintendent are available below. The Community Forum is scheduled for Monday evening at 6:30 PM.

Based upon what occurred the last time, the candidates will appear separately. They will have an opportunity to make some opening remarks, the community will get to ask questions, and the candidate will be allowed to make a summary statement. 

There'll be a brief break between candidates and the candidate process will repeat.

The candidates are scheduled for a day of visit to the Franklin Schools with meetings scheduled with the principals and asst principals, Central Office, and the teachers and staff. Peter Light is scheduled for Tuesday, March 21. Sara Ahern is scheduled for Thursday, March 23.

The School Committee will make their site visits to the respective candidate districts between March 27 and March 31. 

Those who participate in the Community Forum and visits will be provided a link to a survey to submit feedback on the candidates.

All the information will be gathered by the School Committee and lead to their discussion and decision at an April 4th meeting of the Committee.











The audio recording of the special School Committee meeting Wednesday, March 15 can be found here:
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2017/03/fm-128-special-school-committee-mtg.html

Franklin High School in a snow covered sunrise

Tri-County Regional Opens Summer Camp Registration

Tri-County Regional’s summer camp program, “Tri-County Summer STEAM Camp” is now accepting registrations.

Tri-County’s licensed teachers use their industry expertise to teach campers about everything from Engineering Technology to Cosmetology. During the week-long camps, students will learn how to program a video game, build like an engineer, or cook like a chef. These creative activities allow campers to refine valuable STEAM skills during the summer months.

“Parents and teachers agree, summer is the perfect time to enjoy activities that interest our children and continue authentic learning,” said Jean George, Director of Vocational Education at Tri-County. “Tri-County Summer STEAM Camp offers opportunities to have fun and become familiar with 21st century careers.”

http://www.tri-county.tc/Summer-Camps

Several of Tri-County’s most popular camps, including Minecraft Camp and Engineering Camp, will be offered once again this year. We are introducing an Art Adventures Camp that will offer students to learn about graphic design. Full camp descriptions are available on the high school’s website.

Camps will be offered in five, one-week sessions beginning on July 17 and ending on August 18. The cost of each camp will be $210. Enrollment in each program is limited to students entering grades 6, 7, and 8 in September 2017. Students living in the Tri-County District are given preference for enrollment. Early registration is highly recommended as the camps are expected to fill up. All programs are subject to adequate enrollment.

A completed registration form and payment in full must be received in order to be registered. To learn more or to register, visit http://www.tri-county.tc/Summer-Camps.

Tri-County RVTHS, located at 147 Pond Street in Franklin, is a recipient of the High Schools That Work Gold Achievement Award and serves the communities of Franklin, Medfield, Medway, Millis, Norfolk, North Attleborough, Plainville, Seekonk, Sherborn, Walpole, and Wrentham.

FHS boys basketball falls to Cambridge in State Final

"There’s a reason that Cambridge Rindge and Latin came into Saturday’s Division 1 State Final riding a 44 game winning streak. 

The Falcons’ talent was on full display, and they got the most out of their size advantage to pick up their 45th straight win and second consecutive state championship with a 70-43 win over Franklin. 

While the Panthers kept close for the first quarter, Cambridge built a double-digit lead going into the halftime break and never looked back. 

“It wasn’t our best game, but [Cambridge] does a lot to make that happen,” said Franklin head coach CJ Neely. “This wasn’t like the teams we had played during the year, when you drive to the lane, you get some space, all of a sudden there’s a 6’9 guy there cleaning everything up. It’s hard, he’s a good player and a difference maker for those guys in the interior."

Continue reading the article online
https://hockomocksports.com/franklin-boys-basketball-falls-to-cambridge-in-state-championship/

Franklin’s Chris Edgehill attempts to dribble past Cambridge’s Kareem Octavien in the first half. (Ryan Lanigan/HockomockSports.com)

MassBudget: How the President's budget would affect Massachusetts

Three resources

MassBudget    Information.    Participation.  Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center    Democracy. Resources on What the President's  Budget Would Mean for Massachusetts Following President Trump's budget outline this week, we invite you to listen to MassBudget President Noah Berger interviewed by Radio Boston's Deborah Becker on WBUR about what the particular effects could look like for Massachusetts. This Center on Budget and Policy Priorities paper provides a national perspective describing what the President's proposal would mean for schools, affordable housing, home energy assistance, and other state and local programs. And -- more relevant than ever -- those who missed it can read our analysis published last month, Partnership in Peril: Federal Funding at Risk for State Programs Relied on by Massachusetts Residents. 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

Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center, 15 Court Square, Suite 700, Boston, MA 02108 Sent by pbaxandall@massbudget.org in collaboration with Try it free today

Solutions announces 5-Week Program for Summer 2017

A daylong summer program open to children entering Kindergarten through Fifth Grade


The Solutions Extended Day/Enrichment Program, a program of the Franklin Public Schools Lifelong Learning Institute, is pleased to announce it will be offering a 5-week summer program located at the Oak Street Elementary School. 

Solutions, known for its affordable, safe and enriching before and after school programs will offer a daylong summer adventure program beginning July 10, 2017. There will be five theme based weeks for children to attend: Spy Kids, Fantastic Beasts, Science Rocks, The Gold Rush, and I Love Disney!

The program is led by the professional school year staff who plan a variety of enriching activities such as arts & crafts, science experiments, water play, and dramatic play. Each week there is also a special visitor or show to add to the fun. 

Registration is currently open online at www.franklinlifelonglearning.com. For more information, contact the Solutions Program Office at 508-613-1771 or solutions@franklin.k12.ma.us.

http://www.franklinlifelonglearning.com/solutions_program/index.php

ABOUT US: Established in 1999, Solutions is committed to providing enriching, educational and recreational opportunities for our students. The program enables Franklin Public Schools to respond to the needs of our students and their families. 

The Solutions program was created in an effort to continue to expand the cultural, educational, and athletic experiences of elementary school children. Frequently there are requests for additional experiences beyond those possible during the traditional school day. In addition, many parents/guardians have expressed the need for a safe and enriching program before and after school to accommodate the needs of a working family.

If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Jennifer Maitland at 508-613-1772 or email at maitlandj@franklin.k12.ma.us.

Jennifer Maitland
Associate Director
Solutions Extended Day/Enrichment Program
Franklin Public Schools
(508) 613-1772

Elemen Tree House Summer 2017 Camp - registration open

The Elemen Tree House is now accepting registration for our Summer 2017 Camp program. 

Camp sessions are held weekly beginning the week of June 17. Full and part time campers welcome. 

Please call for a tour and visit us on line at www.elementreehouse.com

Elemen Tree House Summer 2017 Camp - registration open

Camp sessions are held weekly beginning the week of June 17

"A major problem, Potee said, is the stigma attached to addiction"

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"Addiction is a disease that, because it involves some of the oldest parts of the brain, is exceptionally difficult to root out, a physician told a local audience Thursday. 

Dr. Ruth Potee - who is the medical director of the Franklin County House of Correction and has worked with the Opioid Task Force of Franklin County and North Quabbin - spoke at the Franklin High School auditorium that night at the invitation of the Support for Addicts and Families by Empowerment (SAFE) Coalition. She went into the roots of addiction and discussing how it affects developing adolescents. 

Potee said addiction is rooted in a part of the brain - the reward center - that helped human ancestors survive. 

"Our ancestors were very good at two specific behaviors: they were compulsive, and they were perseverators," she said. "These are fabulous behaviors when it comes to survival, but they're tricky behaviors when you're dealing with substance abuse disorders."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20170318/doctor-in-franklin-our-brains-are-wired-for-addiction

Glenn Jones photo via Facebook

Franklin Superintendent search yields 2 finalists

To the Franklin School Community,

We have again completed the first part of the Superintendent Search. With a representative from the principal, teacher, town and parent constituencies, we have narrowed down the search to two finalists: Sara Ahern and Peter Light.

For the next part of the process, we are relying even more on your feedback. To that end we are inviting each finalist back on separate days to meet with as many of you as possible. In addition we have set up a community forum where citizens may also have an opportunity to meet the candidates.

We will collect feedback through an on-line Google Docs survey from ALL of you who participate. We understand how important this decision is to the lives of our students and equally to all of you! Please help us with this process.

Franklin School Committee

Parmenter School sign

Posted earlier


SUPERINTENDENT SEARCH: COMMUNITY INVITED

The Franklin School Committee has reopened the search for the superintendent of schools to replace the outgoing superintendent, Dr. Maureen Sabolinski, who is retiring after serving eight years in that position.

Please join us on Monday evening, March 20 at 6:30 PM in the Council Chambers (second floor of the Franklin Municipal Building, 355 East Central Street) to meet the finalists. The finalists have not yet been named, but once they are announced their resumes will be posted on the Franklin School
Committee website. 

Citizens who attend the forum will be invited to complete a survey providing input on each candidate. 

We greatly value your input as citizens of Franklin.



Superintendent Job Description
http://franklinschool.vt-s.net/Pages/FranklinCom_EmerNews/02536F5A-000F8513.2/Superintendent-JobDescription.pdf

Franklin Leadership Profile 
http://franklinschool.vt-s.net/Pages/FranklinCom_EmerNews/02536F5A-000F8513.1/Franklin-Leadership-Profile-Final%20%283%29.pdf

Franklin Desired Characteristics
http://franklinschool.vt-s.net/Pages/FranklinCom_EmerNews/02536F5A-000F8513.0/Franklin%20Desired%20Characteristics.pdf

The Special School Committee meeting of March 15 was recorded and available for replay here
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2017/03/fm-128-special-school-committee-mtg.html

Local Young Pianist Takes The Stage At Carnegie Hall

Franklin’s Peter Bryan, 11, performed at Carnegie Hall on Saturday, February 18, at the invitation of The Royal Conservatory Music Development Program in recognition of his achieving First Class Honors in his piano music assessment. Peter, a piano student of Ida Zelman at the Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA), performed Little Red Wagon, by T. Richert, in the Celebration of Excellence Awards recital, held at Carnegie’s Weill Hall. A highest scorer in Massachusetts in his level of piano performance, Peter demonstrated skills related to repertoire, technical requirements, musicianship and musical literacy.

“It's such a high honor and an incredible opportunity,” said Zelman of Peter’s achievement and Carnegie Hall experience. “I am beyond proud of Peter. He comes to every lesson prepared and eager to learn. He doesn’t back off from a challenge. He’s a high achiever, and The Royal Conservatory program has a huge base of repertoire that motivates him to learn pieces and perform them well.”

“Performing at Carnegie Hall was amazing,” said Peter. “I was nervous at first, but as I waited for my turn to play, the nerves went away. It was really exciting when I finally went on stage. When I played on the (Steinway) piano there, I knew it sounded really fancy. And I've never played in front of a crowd that big before.”

Peter, who started playing piano four years ago at age 7, first took to the instrument when his grandfather bought him a keyboard. His Poppa plays the piano and thought his grandson would enjoy it. “As I tried playing songs I knew by ear, my parents thought I should sign up for lessons,” said Peter.

FSPA Piano Instructor Ida Zelman with her student Peter Bryan

He began studying one-on-one with Zelman, who credits that parental support as being a key component in her student’s growth and development on the instrument. She noted, “It takes a lot of hard work and dedication on the part of the teacher and student, as well as the parents. It’s a partnership – a triangle, really. Without all three sides, there wouldn't be such success.” 

Zelman has utilized The Royal Conservatory program for more than two decades and now uses the curriculum with all of her students at FSPA. “It’s easy to follow, it progresses gradually and you can see the results,” she said.

The sequenced program begins with a preparatory level and progresses through advanced levels, with examinations offered three times annually to evaluate and recognize students’ achievements. Zelman praises the quality of the curriculum for offering a comprehensive, yet individualized and flexible path to train well-rounded musicians. She described, “It helps to develop ear training, sight reading, musical history and analysis, as well as a broad knowledge of repertoire across Baroque, Classical and Romantic/Modern time periods. But beyond that, the program and study of music in general helps expand students’ abilities and helps them grow as people. They improve memory skills, learn analytical thinking and enhance creativity. They discover history and geography as they come to know about composers’ lives and the countries in which they created their art. They develop life skills and broaden their horizons.”

“Every time I get a new song to play it's a new challenge,” Peter said. “And when I can finally play it, it's very rewarding. When I perform, I like the fact that I can make people happy with my music. Last weekend, I played some songs for my great-grandmother in the lobby of her Senior Living home. Several people heard me playing and came over to listen. When I was done, they clapped and told me how much they enjoyed the songs. I really liked that.”

The Carnegie Hall concert, which celebrated the achievements of Royal Conservatory program high scorers of 90% or above from Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey and New York, provided a chance for these exceptional students to take the stage in one of the world’s finest concert halls. Divided into two groups for the 90-minute showcase, the students were able to watch half of the performance from the audience. “It was a great opportunity to see and hear each other perform,” said Zelman. “There were mostly pianists recognized that evening and they were at all different levels, from preparatory to level 8. There was a great sense of community.”

“I want to thank my teacher, Mrs. Zelman,” said Peter. “She's always very encouraging, and I would not have gotten to where I am with piano without her.”

Peter will perform in the studio recital of Ida Zelman in the FSPA Recital Hall (38 Main Street) on June 11 and will be featured in the school’s annual Spring Concert at the Franklin High School auditorium in May. To learn more about The Royal Conservatory Music Development Program and instrumental instruction at the Franklin School for the Performing Arts, visit www.FSPAonline.com or call (508) 528-8668.