Saturday, January 5, 2013

"It’s a humbling honor"

The Shire Book Shop is one of the featured photos in the new Franklin Calendar and gaining some well deserved recognition with this award as noted by the Milford Daily News.
In the regular "Best 5 in New England’’ column of the January/February issue, Richard Wright observed the Union Avenue store combines the soothing atmosphere of a friend’s private library with the eclectic pleasures of a devoted bibliophile’s extensive collection. 
"After 30 years, the owners of the Shire Book Shop still offer to brew you a cup of tea, making your stroll among the 100,00 used and out-of-print books in this former mill building even more of a pleasure." 
The author of "A Vacationer’s Guide to Rural New England Bookstores," Wright noted of the Shire: "Each purchased book is carefully protected with an archival dust jacket."


Browse the book shelves and have a sit to explore the book in detail in comfort


Read more: http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/x1896979594/Shire-Book-Shop-called-one-of-the-best#ixzz2H6EsWYOD

You can visit the Shire Book Shop on Union St (at the railroad crossing) or their website on line at http://www.shirebookshop.com/


The Olivia Act

Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:


I have sort of avoided writing about what happened in Newtown, CT.  Partly because the press was all over it and pushing it through my pores.  But mostly because it really shook me up.  Let's be real here.  I cried for days.  I cried in my bedroom, my kitchen, the grocery store parking lot and even in the produce section.  It really hit me hard.  There have been far to many other school shootings, even one in my hometown in Vermont, but this one was different for me.  It was little, itty-bitty, helpless babies and I HAVE a little, itty-bitty, helpless baby.  Even now as I try to write this I can't grasp all the reasoning behind why I have felt the way I have.  But it makes me sad.  I don't know anything about the heartbreak one must feel losing a child, but I do know about loving a child.  I held Max extra tight that night and every night since.  I stare deep in to his beautiful hazel eyes just a little longer when I say "bye-bye" and even "good morning".  I am so blessed to have Max in my life and I cherish every day.  I hope the families of those children, those babies, those teachers, cherished every day and know that they too are so blessed to of had them in their lives.  

This past September, we had our family pictures taken by my friend and colleague, Deb.  I am so glad that we have that moment in our life captured forever.  Years from now, we will look back on it and laugh and love and squeal (because Max was just too darn cute with that red balloon!).  I truly believe in the importance of documenting life and from that I was put in touch with The Olivia Act.  The Olivia Act was set up by a Connecticut photographer as a way to encourage other photographers to give back.  We were asked to offer a free 30 minute session to a family in need who may not have gotten a professional photography session otherwise.  The family is chosen through nominations written by their family, friends and neighbors within that family's town.

So, I am joining in and offering a free, 30 minute session to one family, along with a DVD of the images and an 8X10 print that they can frame and have in their home forever.  If you would like to nominate a Franklin/Boston area family, please e-mail me personally at aubrey@aubreybgreene.com and tell me why this family should be the ones to receive this gift.  I will be accepting nominations via e-mail until January 18, 2013.

Please spread the word however you can :)  If you would like to find a participating photographer in your area, please check out The Olivia Act blog here.

Things you can do from here:

Historical Museum: Happy Birthday Ben!


Sunday 1/20/13 Happy Birthday Ben!

Celebrate Benjamin Franklin’s Birthday and hear Vera Meyer on the Glass Harmonica, and amazing musical instrument invented by Franklin himself.

HistMuseum_Vera


Franklin Historical Museum is open from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM on Sunday



Sunrise Montessori School Open House


Are you starting to look for a preschool or kindergarten for the fall? Or do you have a 3 year old that you think could benefit from starting before then? Consider Sunrise Montessori in Franklin.

Sunrise will be having an Open House Saturday, January 26 from 11:00am- 1:00pm. Please stop by to meet the teachers, discuss the program and explore the classrooms.  Sunrise has many great program options.  They offer half day programs as well as full day programs. They also have the added flexibility of before and after school care for working parents.  Stop by and see for yourself!


Sunrise Montessori School Open House
Saturday, January 26, 11:00 am - 1:00 pm
31 Hayward St
Franklin, MA
508-541-8010


You can view or download their flyer here

Friday, January 4, 2013

Annual Report 2012: Conservation Commission


The Franklin Conservation Commission is responsible for promoting and developing the natural resources of Franklin and protecting the watershed resources of Franklin. A large part of the Commission’s attention is directed to administering Massachusetts and Franklin wetland protection laws. In short, those laws require the Commission to hold public hearings or meetings before issuing a permit to work in or within 100 feet of a wetland, or 200 feet of a perennial stream.

The Commission is comprised of up to seven volunteer residents appointed for three year terms by the Town Administrator. The Commission also has up to two non-voting associate members. The members of the Commission have diverse professional experience related to environmental science, biology, engineering, landscape design, and project management. Because of their different backgrounds each commissioner is able to offer a different perspective during the review of applications for a wetland permit that ultimately
benefits Franklin. That perspective continues to evolve, as one new member, Marc DePoto and two new Associate members joined the Commission during this last year.

In July 2012 the Commission and the Town was shocked and saddened by the sudden loss of our Conservation Agent, Mr. Nick Alfieri. A longtime resident and devoted Town employee, Mr. Alfieri was committed to upholding the interests of the Wetlands Protection Act and the Town of Franklin’s Wetlands Bylaw, while always being fair, helpful, and cooperative with local residents and business owners. We will
miss Nick and are thankful for his contributions to the Town and for his friendship.

In addition to conducting the regular schedule of public meetings to review applications for wetland permitting, the Commission updated its Policy Statement and Conservation Property Rules and Regulations document. The Commission also made an emergency revision to our Rules and Regulations, otherwise
residents would have lost their federal flood insurance.

Franklin was well represented at the annual conference of the Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions in March, attending classes and workshops and talking with other Commissioners from across the state as well as lawyers, ecologists and engineers active in Conservation.

Last year, the EPA unveiled its draft regulations to reduce the amount of phosphorus in storm water runoff into the Charles River basin, with Franklin, Bellingham and Milford as the pilot communities. These regulations are in response to the public health threat posed by outbreaks of toxic algae blooms downstream fostered by high levels of phosphorus from storm water runoff.

These regulations will require properties with more than two acres of imperious surfaces to improve storm water runoff treatment. Currently these regulations remain at a standstill as the EPA continues to work out the regulatory details. The Commission monitors the status of these regulations while encouraging and advising on appropriate stormwater management practices where applicable in Conservation jurisdiction.

The Commission continues to work on the DelCarte area (aka the Franklin Reservoirs) off of Pleasant Street. There are a series of seven “structures” (six are dams that had been originally used for cranberry farming, the seventh is a stone wall that beavers had dammed) along Miller brook thru the 100+ acre
DelCarte area. The dams are identified serially from Dam #1 located closest to downtown adjacent to the MBTA Dean station to #6 located furthest downstream, closest to Miller St. All of these structures are in various states of failure. Dams #5 & #5A (the stone wall) have completely failed, allowing their ponds to drain. All of the dams in the series have had signs posted on them because of the danger created by unstable beaver dams. Last year, the Town awarded a contract for Engineering and Design services to
Tighe & Bond, Inc. This spring, Tighe & Bond submitted a notice of intent for rehabilitation of
dams #3 and #4.

The Commission would like to draw the attention of the Town’s residents to the many protected natural areas in Town and the opportunities for passive recreation they enable:


  • The DelCarte area has parking off of Pleasant Street, with walking trails through woodlands along a series of ponds; 
  • The Town Forest has good access points off of both Summer Street and Russet Hill Road with a network of walking trails thru woodlands and across Uncas Brook; 
  • There is a network of walking trails that cross Shepards Brook and go thru fields and woods behind Dacey Recreation Area off Lincoln Street;
  • Indian Rock has good access off of both King Phillip Road and Lost Horse Trail with walking trails thru woodlands near two large vernal pools and to the top of historic Indian Rock;
  • The Metacomet Land Trust owns several pieces of protected land, notably the walking trails off of Bridle Path and The Lady Bug Trail near JFK school;
  • The Franklin State Forest is accessible off of Grove Street and Forge Hill Road and boasts an extensive network of walking and ORV trails;
  • The SNETT trail goes all the way to Douglas. There is a Town parking lot off of Grove Street;
  • The expansive marsh near Interstate 495 exit #17 is the US Army Corp of Engineers Natural Valley Flood Storage Project, preserved to protect against downstream flooding in the Charles River basin. That marsh is along Mine Brook, the largest stream in town, draining about half of Franklin, starting at the extreme south end of Franklin, passing underneath Washington Street, Beaver Street, 495, Grove Street, West Central Street, 495 again, Beech Street, and Pond Street before finally meeting the Charles River on the Medway border.
  • Other significant streams in Franklin include Shepards Brook, Miller Brook, Uncas Brook and Bubbling Brook. Lake Populatic is part of the Charles River, the other navigable ponds in Franklin are Beaver Pond, Uncas Pond, and Spring (Green’s) Pond.

There are many other natural areas in Franklin waiting to be explored.

Conservation Commission Members:

Regan Ballantyne - Chair
Ray Willis - Vice Chair
Andy Tolland
Monique Allen
Jon Fournier
Jeff Livingstone
Marc Depoto
Margaret Stolfa - Associate Member
Andrew Riordan - Associate Member

Respectfully submitted,

Regan Ballantyne, Chair


Please visit our website for additional information including application forms, and regularly posted Conservation Commission agendas and meeting minutes at http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Conservation/index


Published by the Town Clerk, this comes from the 2012 Annual Report
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Clerk/annual/

Guru Bar & Grill Hold Ribbon Cutting


GURU BAR AND GRILL HOLDS RIBBON CUTTING

Guru Bar and Grill, 30 Main St., Franklin, celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon cutting event organized by The United Regional Chamber of Commerce on Jan. 3 at 11 a.m. The restaurant serves "Indian Fare with Flair."


Guru ribbon cutting - photo courtesy of United Regional Chamber of Commerce


Pictured at the ribbon cutting from left to right are: Rich Frongillo of Tinetrix, Lou Moccia of Putnam Investments, Susan Russo of Little Green Phone Book, Ralph Arguin of Country Gardens, Joe Kapples, Jim Schultz of Fairway Independent Mortgage Associates, Natalie Roy of the office of State Rep. Jeffrey Roy, Janet Letourneau of Peak Performers, Steve Cooke of Kuehne & Nagle Inc., Lisa Piana of Downtown Franklin Partnership, Kelly Rovedo of Guru Bar and Grill, Sandeep Sidhu of Guru Bar and Grill, Ed McDonough of Executive Coaching, Dave Miles of Miles Internet Marketing, Jack McCarthy of Bristol County Savings Bank, Franklin Town Administrator Jeffrey Nutting, Mike Kerrigan of Edward Jones Investments, Carl Scheinman of Dean Bank, and Olga Allen of The United Regional Chamber of Commerce.





Historical Museum - Book Signing - Jan 13


Sunday 1/13/13 Book Signing

Local author Eamon Earls will be available to sign and answer questions about his newly released book Franklin: From Puritan Precinct to 21st Century ‘Edge City’

Come discover even more about Franklin’s History.


The book can be ordered through www.viaappiapress.com

In the News: Legislator pay cut, Tri-Country preschool



Drop in household income means pay cut for Legislature

Thursday, January 3, 2013

Annual Report 2012: Recreation


The Recreation Department is located at 150 Emmons Street. The Recreation Department offers Franklin and Medway residents a variety of programs and events for youths and adults as well as coordination of youth sports organizations field use and field maintenance. The department operates and schedules
activities for Chilson Beach at Beaver Pond, Fletcher Field, Dennis Pisani Field (formally Theron Metcalf), Henry “Ski” Faenza Tot Lot (Nason Street Tot Lot), King Street Memorial Field, Dacey Community Field, and Meadowlark Lane Athletic Fields. The department is also responsible for scheduling the use of all school fields during the summer, when school is not in session. Our department works closely with Athletic Director Brad Sidwell to schedule all youth sports activities around the high school teams practices and games.

Chilson Beach
This year, Chilson Beach was a busy place with over 3500 visitors utilizing the many functions of the pond. Canoeing, kayaking, swimming, fishing, and hiking were some of the activities available at Chilson Beach. We expanded the usage of the facility to include a Movie night at the pond, soccer, football, boys lacrosse and cross country running. The turf field was used for NFL Flag football, Pop Warner football, soccer, and lacrosse, as well as yoga for senior citizens, tai chi, boot camp, and many other recreational activities. A portable recycled plastic walkway was installed for handicap accessibility to the water and playground area. The Franklin High School soccer and lacrosse programs play all of their home games on the turf field as well.

Summer Playground Program
An eight week playground program was held at Fletcher Field & Medway’s Choate Park from June 26-August 17 2011. The program hours were Monday-Friday from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm daily. Activities included: organized games, arts and crafts, water activities, sports, and weekly visitors. The themed weeks featured water slide Tuesday, a trip to Regal Cinema on Wednesdays, a giant slip and slide every Thursday, and Pizza day Fridays. The program had 500 registrants throughout the summer.

The Franklin Summer  playground Program Director this year was Kaitlyn Williamson. The Franklin Summer Playground Program staff included: Elizabeth Allie, Stefan Herlitz, Paul O’Donahue.

The Medway Summer Playground Program Directors were Becky Tingley and Cory Gates. Their staff included, Arianna Burke, Bryany Burke, and Matthew Harrington.

Youth Basketball Program
The Youth Basketball program continues to grow and now involves over 1,510 children, 162 teams,  314 coaches, and utilizes every school gymnasium in town. The Recreation department expanded its basketball program to include High School aged kids looking to continue playing. This intramural program gives kids in grades 9-12 a chance to continue playing pick up basketball on Saturday nights. The program utilizes school gyms at Parmenter, Davis Thayer, Horace Mann Middle School, Remington Elementary, J.F. Kennedy School, Keller Sullivan Middle School, and Franklin High School auxiliary gym.

This year the youth basketball program ran from November 11th-March 3rd on Saturdays. The FYBL is divided into ten divisions: Kindergarten (co-ed), 1st & 2nd Grade Boys, 1st & 2nd Grade Girls, 3rd & 4th Grade Boys, 3rd & 4th Grade Girls, 5th & 6th Grade Boys and 5th & 6th Grade Girls, 7th & 8th Grade Boys, 7th & 8th Grade Girls and High School Intramural division.

This year, our coordinators were Steve Ellin 3rd & 4th Boys, Mike Vinson 3rd & 4th Girls, Mike Canesi & John Jette 5th & 6th Girls, Tim Saunders & Kevin O’Connell 5th & 6th Boys, Mark Marinelli 7th & 8th Girls, Steve Skaza 7th & 8th Boys, and Mike Vinson High School Intramural League. It is because of these individuals and the volunteer coaches, that this program is a success. The K-4th grade leagues are set up as a non-competitive learning experience for the children with the focus on fundamental basketball skills. Grades 5th-8th grade basketball leagues start to teach the kids different rules, zone defense, pressing, and traits of competitive basketball. Ten players are drafted to each team and games are played weekly on Saturdays. Participation trophies are awarded to all Kindergarten through 4th grade players, and a “break-up” pizza party is held for all K-2nd grade players after the final game of the season.

Pee Wee Baseball
The Pee Wee Baseball program was created in 1999 by Director, Ryan Jette. Since then, the program has grown from 26 kids to 300 kids annually. Taking his lifelong baseball coaching experience coupled with past employment with Major League Baseball International, Ryan created a beginners baseball program that teaches kids the proper techniques of hitting, fielding, base running and throwing. This fun league features 4 practice sessions and 8 controlled games. The use of tees, soft bats and spongy balls make this program a safe and enjoyable start children ages 4-6 years old.

Head Instructors Mike Massuer and Chris Reagan will be on site to run the drills, organize the scrimmages, and support the volunteer coaching staff.

Kid Care Babysitting
The Recreation Department continues to offer this 6-hour training program for kids ages 11-16 years old. Kelley Brooks teaches kids the business of babysitting while coordinating lectures on childcare, fire and  police safety, nutrition, and diapering. Classes were offered monthly throughout the year and over 300 kids
were introduced to the business of babysitting.

NFL Flag Football
The Recreation Department teamed up with the NFL to bring this non-contact flag football league to kids aged 6-14 years old. 477 kids signed up to play each Tuesday & Thursday evening at the Beaver Pond Turf Field. Reversible NFL game jerseys, playbooks, wristbands, belt/flag setup and access to the NFL Kids website gives kids the opportunity to follow their favorite player or team. Players learned the  fundamentals of throwing, catching, running and teamwork. Punt, pass, and kick competition will allow kids to showcase their skills in a competition against area youths.

Tennis Program
The Tennis program was expanded from a summer program to a three season (summer, fall and winter) program. The youth tennis instructional program was offered at the Franklin High School Courts. The six-week program was under the supervision of Diane Reinertson, Drew Reinertson and Tighe Poirier. Classes were run at the Franklin High School tennis courts, Monday through Thursday for all skill levels. Over 300 children participated in our tennis program.

Golf Lessons
The Recreation Department expanded the golf lessons offered into the summer months, by offering a full or half day camp in the summer. The Recreation Department, in conjunction with Golf Professional, Mark Copithorne, offered Adult and Junior Golf instruction at the New England Country Club in South Bellingham. The lessons covered all aspects of the game of golf (putting, chipping, bunkers, irons, and woods). Registrants met one day a week for 6 weeks to practice their skills. Lessons were offered during the summer and fall season for over 340 residents attending. Express 2 day lessons were offered over April Vacation. Participants enjoyed playing the course following the sixweek lesson to see what they learned.

Girls Lacrosse
The Recreation Department has been running the Girls lacrosse program since 2005. The program has grown from 28 girls to over 260 girls. Our teams participate in the Massachusetts Bay Girls Lacrosse League.There were four teams at the 1st-2nd grade division which was coached by Ryan Jette, Barry Reagan, Heather MacCallum and Mark Goguen. There were three teams at the 3rd & 4th Grade division, which were coached by Ted Mazukina, Charlie Clark and Elizabeth Allen. There were three teams at the 5th & 6th Grade level, which was coached by Hank Versprille & Lindsey Baryluk, John Jette, and Todd & Heather MacCallum. And three teams at the 7th & 8th Grade level, which were coached by Mike Adiletto, Rick Grover and Roger Jette. All levels had successful seasons and played in 8 regular season games. Franklin Girls Lacrosse is the largest girls lacrosse program in the state of Massachusetts.

What’s New in FY 2012
We introduced several new programs this fiscal year. They include;

Intro to Pee Wee Baseball- Utilize practice time indoors during the cold winter to introduce your child to baseball. This program is designed to be an introductory program for kids who are not old enough for Pee Wee baseball this year. The program will still cover, fielding ground balls, running bases, hitting, and pitching but in a smaller group. Get your child excited about playing baseball. This program includes timed skill stations, tee work, and mini games.

Free Play Friday- This class is for parents looking for some fun activities for their 1.5 to 4 year old on Friday’s during the winter? Free play Friday’s is a play-based class that will allow your child to explore different obstacle courses each week. There will be kid’s music.

Bully Proofing-This program is designed to be preventative and proactive, so that children can avoid being bullied, and if they are bullied, how to stop it. In an interactive, non-threatening manner, children learn how to become “Bully Proofed”. We’ll focus on identifying bullying, understanding why it occurs, acting on bullying, and cyber bullying and prevention.

Community Garden- With the guidance of Amy Acevedo, the Recreation Department helped administer the first ever Community Garden at King Street Memorial Field. Over 40 beds were constructed by volunteers and help from DPW made this important project a huge success. Providing vegetables to the local food pantry and satisfying home owners that didn’t have the space to plant their own garden, the Community Garden continues to thrive.

Home Alone Safety- Children will learn telephone and door answering techniques, internet safety, accident and fire protection and first aid techniques. We’ll also talk about how to manage your time when you’re home alone for short periods of time. The class includes a variety of teaching methods, including a video
and role playing.

Introduction to Robotics- Students will be instructed in robotic systems through a hand on program with working robots. Each participant will build and keep a working programmable robot that can be programmed to navigate around. Working in a team, students will construct a robot that can be programmed using a computer. Students will be introduced to a BASIC programming language that is used to control the robot. The robots will then compete in a mini sumo-wrestling tournament.

FUNdamental LEGO Engineering-Take a "crash course" in Demolition Derby, design a Mighty Metropolis, challenge the Battle Track, build and race a Locomotive faster than a speeding Worm Drive. Explore concepts in physics, mechanical engineering, structural engineering, and architecture while playing with
your favorite creations. Children will be given instruction, design challenges, and competitions appropriate to their facility with LEGO Technique and System components.

During February and April Vacation students engaged in a list of activities; rock-climbing, paintball, baseball clinics, field hockey, lacrosse, paintball, and much more.

Respectfully submitted,

Ryan Jette
Director of Recreation


Additional information on the Recreation Dept can be found on their Franklin webpage
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Recreation/index

Published by the Town Clerk, this comes from the 2012 Annual Report
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Clerk/annual/


Franklin Downtown Partnership: General Meeting Thursday

Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:

via Franklin Downtown Partnership by noreply@blogger.com (Franklin Downtown Partnership) on 1/2/13

Franklin Downtown Partnership General Meeting Agenda
Thursday, January 3, 2013
Dean College Golder Room at 8:30 a.m.


I.       Open Meeting

II.      Adoption of Agenda

III.     Report from Executive Director
          a.  Strategic Plan and Ideas
          b.  Event Committees
          c.  "12 Days of Donating" Food Elves
          d.  FDP Party -- Thursday, January 17

IV.     Streetscape and Town Update -- Jeff Nutting

V.      Holiday Stroll Summary -- Cindy Kozil

VI.     Intern Opportunities -- Rich Davino, Director of Career Services and Internships

VII.    Presentation on New Franklin Book
           a.  Author -- Eamon Earls
           b.  Franklin:  From Puritan Precinct to 21st Century "Edge City"
           c.  Books will be available to purchase

VIII.   New Business
           a.  Decorlys -- New Business at 58 E. Central Street Now Open

IX.     Other Business

X.      Adjourn

FDP Party -- January 17
Next General Meeting -- March 7





Things you can do from here:

2013 Christmas Tree pick up

An update from the Franklin DPW regarding the tree pick up details for next week




Christmas trees will be picked up curbside on your normal trash day the week of 1/7/13. Trees must not be in bags, contain ornaments or lights and be no more than 4 feet from the curb and be out by 7 AM.





To subscribe to receive your own copy of the Recycling and other Town alerts, visit this page
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/subscriber-news

In the News: storm water, wood stoves, Housing Authority


Franklin completes latest stormwater management project

In this latest project, crews replaced nearly 2,000 square feet of asphalt — considered an impervious surface because it blocks storm water from entering the soil — with a rain garden that they say will cleanse roughly 80 percent of pollutants in the runoff.


Mass. program encourages wood stove upgrades

The Housing Authority spent much of 2012 upgrading its properties and this year hopes to raise enough money to install security surveillance systems inside all of its buildings.

DeBaggis: Heeding the beacons of progress

Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:

via Wicked Local Franklin Opinions RSS by GateHouse Media, Inc. on 1/2/13

Lauren and I keep dogs and cats, and we take them to the Bellingham Animal Hospital whenever the need arises. Although Lauren makes the majority of these visits, I notice when it is the cat Oscar's turn, the task falls to me.

Things you can do from here:

Wednesday, January 2, 2013

Add your entry!


Here are a couple of entries in the current survey on "What should the #1 goal for Franklin be?"

  • Extra Parking for Downtown Franklin and a 100 seat movie theater
Reason: Norwood, Dedham, Newburyport, Lexington and many more have theaters and they are not college towns nor do they have as high a population as we do


  • End risky fluoridation

Reason: It has been nearly two years since Franklin officials were notified by concerned residents about the federal government's fluorosis warnings regarding sodium fluoridation. Officials have known for more than a year that hundreds of Franklin residents, upon learning of these federal warnings, stopped consenting to uncontrolled dosages of sodium fluoride. Officials have known for five months about the Harvard University study suggesting a link between fluoridation and impaired brain development in children. Health justice delayed is health justice denied. Anyone who needs fluoride can easily get it; there is no need to force it everyone, particularly in uncontrolled dosages. If surrounding towns like Milford, Bellingham and Blackstone allow their parents and medical professionals to control their kids' fluoride dosages, then why not Franklin parents? The health and safety of children is the #1 priority of any town. The right of parents to make informed dosage decisions based on doctors' recommendations is too important to ignore any longer. The time is now for the health board members to lift their risky and reckless sodium fluoridation order.

You can add your own entry here
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/01/what-should-1-goal-for-franklin-be.html


Annual Report 2012: Human Resources


The primary function of the Town of Franklin is Customer Service and that service is provided by its employees.

The Human Resources Department provides Customer Service to potential, active and former employees, as well as citizens, of the Town of Franklin.

Over the past three fiscal years we had several layoffs, resignations, and retirements. This year we were finally able to hire ten full time and eight part time employees. Employees were placed in the DPW, Library, Police, and Fire Departments. Questions about benefits continue throughout an employee’s time with the Town and continue into retirement. In addition to the mandatory participation in Norfolk Retirement System, or OBRA for part time employees benefits include:

  • Life Insurance
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Section 125 Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Short and Long Term Disability plans
  • Section 457 Savings Plans

All employees, other than Police and Fire, are covered by Worker’s Compensation, a federally mandated program. Our goal is to prevent accidents and lost time from work, and to protect individuals from financial loss when there is an incident. This “no fault” insurance is designed to provide income security and medical coverage for individuals injured on the job. Since July 2011, the program is insured with MIIA Human Resources continues to ensure that incident reports are filed timely with Worker’s Compensation, reviewing claims and making payments directly to the employees. We are now able to file claims “on line” to get them set up quickly so employees are treated and claims processed quickly. Employees who have needed to use the services report a strong and positive experience working with claims managers. We also work with managers and employees across the Town to support safe work practices, so that the frequency and length
of workers compensation absences are held to a minimum.

Over the year the Town of Franklin Safety Committee updated policies, with an eye to reducing hazards at the worksite. The team created a twelve month plan focus on a range of aspects of safety.

On an annual basis, all benefit programs are reviewed to be sure they comply with Federal and State laws. Federal Health Care Reform has had a significant impact on our health insurance program and we continue to ensure we comply with all regulations.

We provide benefits that are competitive with the market to attract and keep the right workforce and provide those quality benefits at the lowest cost possible. The HR Department has continued a wellness
program, offered by MIIA to the employees of the Town. These have included fitness walking, relaxation techniques, and healthy eating. This program, designed to improve health and fitness, and to reduce health insurance costs, will continue next year at no cost to employees or to the Town. Employees were enthusiastic
about participation in the strength and aerobic classes, Healthy Matters heart program and an extended walking program.

In addition to active employees we are responsible for over 400 retirees of the Town of Franklin and Franklin Public Schools who have health and/or life insurance as a result of their long-term employment with the Town. We enjoy hearing about their activities after they have left employ with the town. As retirees are a very mobile population, it is our goal and mission to assist all retirees and their covered spouses with any questions they might have which includes the processing of all of their enrollment, coverage and address changes on a daily basis.

As we begin the next year new goals have been set. They include:

  • Work with all departments to maintain a safe work environment, with a goal of reduced lost time for on the job injuries.
  • Review best practices in the public sector and find opportunities for skill development to offer to municipal employees.
  • Continue to monitor changes arising from National Health Care Reform which will impact the Town insurance plans.
  • Partner with School HR activities to find service improvements and cost efficiencies.
  • Continue to deliver high quality customer service to employees, retirees, and citizens.
  • Constantly monitor full range of benefit options. Focus on the Health Insurance Program.
  • Identify information which can be best communicated electronically and keep web site current.
  • Provide excellent service to and resolve administrative issues arising from municipal health insurance program.
  • Facilitate managers using job descriptions and performance evaluations to strengthen organizational
  • and employee performance.
  • Educate employees on the Sec. 125 Flexible Spending Accounts which are available to them for medical or dependent care costs. Support managers and employees in employee relations activities.


We appreciate input from employees and citizens at any time.

Respectfully Submitted

Stephanie McNeil
Human Resources Director.


INSURANCE ADVISORY COMMITTEE
The Town of Franklin Insurance Advisory Committee is comprised of representatives from each of the municipal and school unions, as well as retired employees. It provides recommendations to the Town Administrator on health and dental plans. Meetings are an opportunity for employees from the unions to
learn about insurance products, industry trends, and to help identify ways to meet employee needs within the framework of Massachusetts General Law and available financial resources.

We had again advised MIIA, our insurance provider, that we needed a renewal with a minimal cost increase. In July of 2010 the Commonwealth passed legislation, giving municipalities more control over health plan
design.

The Town also continued a Health Reimbursement Arrangement to help offset hospital in patient costs. The Committee voted in favor of the plan change and were able to achieve a 3% reduction in premium costs.

The IAC supports the development of a Wellness Program. This kind of program helps educate employees on health and fitness issues to support long term health. The goal is to reduce the increase of long term and high cost medical conditions.

The Town provides dental benefits on a totally employee paid basis. The Committee again selected Guardian Life Insurance as the provider for its dental plan. Approximately 300 employees have elected this benefit.

The Flexible Spending Account vendor was retained. This vendor provides debit cards for employees to use for immediate payment. Employees can avoid an additional out of pocket expense by using the cards. We hope the participation in this plan will grow as employees recognize the tax savings available to them, and
become more experienced in planning for medical and dependent care costs.

We have changed the plan year to a September 1 through August 31 window to more closely coordinate
with the Health Insurance Plan and with the school year.

Participants on the IAC brought good questions to the process and have been very effective in exploring alternatives, and making recommendations. The IAC plans to continue its work gaining knowledge about the full insurance program. In the coming year we hope we will be able to reach out through this committee to other employees so that there is greater understanding of benefit plans.

Respectfully Submitted

Stephanie McNeil
Human Resource Director

from the Town Clerk Annual Report page, this comes from the 2012 Annual Report
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Clerk/annual/

MassBudget: What's the State of Working Massachusetts, this New Year



MassBudget    Information.
   Participation.
 Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center    Democracy.
State of Working Massachusetts 2012
2012 has now ended, and workers in Massachusetts are still trying to dig themselves out of the economic hole caused by the "Great Recession." The New Year's update of MassBudget's "State of Working Massachusetts" describes the current economic landscape, along with some of the long-term trends affecting workers and their families.


As has been the case for several years now, economic growth remains too slow to restore the losses experienced by workers. In Massachusetts--as across the nation:

  • The latest data show that median income actually fell between 2010 and 2011.

  • The unemployment rate remains significantly higher than it was when the recession began.

When we compare Massachusetts with other states, however, we find that workers here continue to fare better than workers elsewhere. Incomes remain higher, poverty rates are lower, and even when the recession was at its most severe, our state economy was outperforming most.


Read The Complete STATE OF WORKING MASSACHUSETTS


Note: The State of Working Massachusetts is an ongoing project of the Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center. A full version is released each January, but different parts are updated at different times during the year--depending on when new data becomes available. Through each iteration, much of the structure remains the same, as do our descriptions of measures that have not changed.
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

When are the Christmas Tree pickups for Franklin?


Per the DPW Calendar, Christmas trees will be picked up on your normal trash pick up day during the week of Mon, Jan 7 through Fri, Jan 11.


You can view the calendar online on the Franklin webpage here
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_News/01A12FFA-000F8513



Tuesday, January 1, 2013

What should the #1 goal for Franklin be?

Happy New Year!

As we start the new year, goals and New Year's resolutions are made. Let's collect what you think the #1 goal for Franklin should be.






Annual Report 2012: Housing Authority


BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

The following Officers were duly elected at the annual organizational meeting of the Franklin Housing
Authority held on April 9, 2012.

George A. Danello, Chairman
Christopher K. Feeley, Vice Chairperson
Peter L. Brunelli, Treasurer
Mark A. Teehan, Assistant Treasurer
John R. Padula, Commissioner

FHA STAFF
Lisa M. Audette, Executive Director
Diane Lamoureux, Administrative Assistant
Melva Jackson, Office Clerk
Candice Day, Office Assistant
Michael Gilligan, Maintenance Supervisor
William Pizzi, Maintenance Laborer
Frank McAvoy, Maintenance Groundskeeper
Anne Ayotte, Service Coordinator

Modernization of the Franklin Housing Authority Properties
A total of 32 water closets (toilets) were replaced with efficient low-flow units at the FHA in June at 45 Winter Street. Funding for this project came through the Department of Housing & Community Development’s energy conservation program. By replacing 32 water closets, Franklin Housing Authority will look forward to a reduced water consumption and therefore a reduced water/sewer use expense.

In 2011, Franklin Housing Authority replaced 67 water closets at Central Park Terrace. We have begun to
calculate our savings and we expect to reduce our water/sewer bill by approximately $10,000 annually.
This money will give FHA a greater ability to maintain our units.

Also, through the Department of Housing & Community Development’s energy conservation program, FHA completed an energy audit that resulted in the replacement of 28 old refrigerators with new energy star units for our family residents Additional improvements, during the 2012 FYI include replacement of three roofs, repairs to catch basins, replacement of electrical panels and upgrade of electrical outlets. All of these projects were primarily funded through the Department of Housing and Community Development with Formula Funding. We work diligently to put to good use any funding for improvements from the department.

FHA Property
The Franklin Housing Authority manages 161 units of State Aided Elderly/Disabled Housing, 33 units of low
income Family Housing and an 8-unit Group Home. Additionally, the Housing Authority is responsible for a
four bedroom congregate facility. This program provides a shared living environment for its residents who maintain private bedrooms. Congregate housing was established for residents who are self-reliant, however may need limited support. Franklin Housing Authority also owns two single family homes and one duplex in Franklin. These properties are reserved for lease to low-income persons and afford these families the opportunity to reside in a residential neighborhood.

Additionally, Franklin Housing Authority has been awarded $1,250,000 for the development of an additional Chapter 689 housing facility. Chapter 689 housing is reserved for mentally challenged adults and will be overseen by the Department of Mental Retardation. We have secured a suitable site for this development on Plain Street. Further the designer; Winter Street Architects has been approved and has begun the design phase of this development. This development will be seeking design approval from the Town of Franklin Zoning Board of Appeals and the Design Commission.

Special Events Noted with Appreciation
Rotary Club members served their annual spaghetti dinner to FHA residents and area seniors complete with all the fixings. Commissioner John Padula was the head Chef and also provided some entertainment. Rotary members cooked, served, entertained and picked up after. Rotarians always comment that the smiles and the kind words of appreciation received make their time and efforts very rewarding.

Special Thanks
The Board of Commissioners, Staff and Residents of the Franklin Housing Authority wish to express
their thanks and appreciation to the following:

The Clergy, a continuous support and comfort in the time of need and always.

Franklin Senior Association Members:
Suzanne Wade, President
Linda Doonan, Vice President
Joyce Hutchinson, Treasurer
Evelyn Pelletier, Secretary
Evelyn Mucciarone, Member at Large
This Association plans pizza parties, holiday gatherings, morning coffee and donuts, card parties and many more events for the enjoyment of all Franklin Seniors.

Chairman Bob Vallee and all of the Franklin Town Council Members, Town Administrator, Jeffrey Nutting and his staff for their continued support and assistance.

Council on Aging, Veterans Agent, SHINE Program and Food Pantry for assisting residents with health care concerns and working with the Authority to recognize needs and provide activities, nourishment and
specialized services.

Franklin Police Department, Chief Semerjian and the entire Franklin Police Department for continuous concern, attention and response to the needs of the Authority and its Residents.

Franklin Fire and Rescue, Chief Gary McCarraher and his department are always professional and respectful.

Senator Karen Spilka, Senator Richard Ross, Representative James Vallee, U.S. Congressmen James McGovern, and Senators Scott Brown and John Kerry for their relentless support of the Housing Programs and Bills with the best interest of our residents at heart.

Governor Patrick for his relentless support of Massachusetts public housing.

Norfolk County Sherriff’s Department and Sherriff Michael Bellotti for including FHA in their inmate community service program.

Dean Bank for the donation of a wide screen television, blue ray and several movies to our Senior Community Hall and Senior Association.

Through the years, the community and the housing authority are finding ways to improve the quality of life
for our area seniors and low-income families. With the support of the Commissioners and the community the Franklin Housing Authority continues to be a great, safe and affordable community living opportunity.

Respectfully submitted,

Lisa M. Audette, PHM, Executive Director


from the Town Clerk Annual Report page, this comes from the 2012 Annual Report
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Clerk/annual/

Just Label It

The start of the New Year usually brings about a new diet or resolution to improve one's health. This video lays out the issues with food labels, or lack there of and what action can be taken to get better labeled food.

One step to better health!




Additional info can be found on the Just Label It website  http://justlabelit.org/

One of many ways to eat healthy is to go with "Clean Eating"
http://www.thegraciouspantry.com/

Do you have a diet or process you follow to eat healthy? Please share


Franklin Library: new year, new program schedule

Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:

via Franklin Public Library by Franklin Public Library on 12/31/12


FRANKLIN PUBLIC LIBRARY

A New Year means NEWprograms at the Franklin Public Library! Our rollout of a new schedule and programs for children and teens begins on Monday, January 7th, 2013.

Regularly Scheduled Programs

Mondays at 10:30 AM
Wee Read
This thirty minute storytime is for independent 3, 4, & 5-year-olds who are invited to attend "on their own." It features stories, songs, fingerplays, and other interactive activities to encourage reading and promote literacy. No registration is required.

Mondays at 3:30 PM
Krafty Mondays
For ages 6, 7 & 8, come to the library and see what original masterpieces you can make. A short story and different craft will be offered each week during this thirty minute program. Try crafting your own photo frames, doing creative doodling, making puzzles, and much more! No registration is required.
Krafty Mondays - January programs
"Get Framed!" 
Monday, January 7th, 2013
You'll be the center of attention in the picture frame you create.

"We Make a Beautiful Garden"
Monday, January 14th, 2013
Children, like flowers, grow in your beautiful mosaic.

"Get Carded!"
Monday, January 28th, 2013
Make your own personalized note cards.

Tuesdays at 10:30 AM
Mother Goose on the Loose
Each thirty minute session uses nursery rhymes, songs, puppets, and more to promote the learning process of babies and toddlers. This program is designed for children up to two-years-old along with their caregiver. No registration is required.

Wednesdays at 10:30 AM
Terrific Twos
Thirty minutes of stories, songs, and activities for children who are two-years-old with their caregivers.  No registration is required.

Teen Advisory Board Begins Wednesday February 6th, 2013 at 6:30PM in the Library
Calling all teens: this is your chance to tell us what to do! Please join us on the first Wednesday of every month 6:30PM. Come help us plan teen programs, choose library materials, and promote the library. We will provide the light refreshments. Membership on this board will look great on job and college applications. Open to all students in grades 6-12.

Thursdays at 10:30 AM
Story and Craft
Stories, activities, and a craft for children ages 4 and 5 who are able to attend "on their own." This program lasts around 45 minutes. No registration is required.


Thursdays at 3:30 P M
Fun Club
This program is designed for tweens ages 8 to 12 years old and will feature different games, contests, and crafts each week. Come join us for some fun! No registration is required.
Fun Club - January Programs
Hobbit Party
Thursday, January 10th, 2013
Have you seen the movie or read the book? Anyone can join in our celebration of The Hobbit. There will be trivia, games, and surprises at our first Fun Club event. No registration is required.

Game Night
Thursday, January 17th, 2013
Just drop in to play a variety of board games and socialize in a relaxed setting. Registration is not required.

Get Creative
Thursday, January 24th, 2013
Make your own scrapbooks or journals and decorate them with your creativity. No registration is required.

Minute to Win It
Thursday, January 31st, 2013
Can you move a cookie from your forehead into your mouth using only the muscles in your face? Can you roll a ping-pong ball down a measuring tape and into a cup? Come try these and other challenges during Minute to Win It and win fun prizes!  Registration is not required.


Things you can do from here: