Saturday, June 27, 2015

Snow Sister's Soiree - Franklin Library - 6/27 - 10:30 AM

The Snow Sister's Soiree takes place today at 10:30 AM at the Franklin Public Library.

Join the Snow Sister's for singing, a story,  a game, autographs, and photos. Feel free to arrive in costume!

Snow Sister's Soiree - Franklin Library - 6/27 - 10:30 AM
Snow Sister's Soiree - Franklin Library - 6/27 - 10:30 AM

This was shared from the Franklin Library page
http://franklinpl.blogspot.com/2015/06/snow-sisters-coming-on-saturday-june.html

This is sponsored by the Friends of Franklin Library.

Summer Concert Series At THE BLACK BOX

THE BLACK BOX, downtown Franklin’s new theater, music, and event venue, presents two evenings of great jazz to kick off the first annual Summer Concert Series. 
Beginning on Friday, July 17 at 8 p.m., THE BLACK BOX features The Mark Poniatowski Situation, led by bassist, composer and arranger Mark Poniatowski, with Robert Gallegos on trumpet, Jon Garniss on trombone, Kenny Hadley on drums, Joe Mulholland on piano and Jared Sims on saxophone. 
The Mark Poniatowski Situation released a self-titled CD of jazz instrumentals composed and arranged by Poniatowski in 2010. An associate professor in the Contemporary Writing and Production department at Berklee College of Music, Mark Poniatowski’s extensive experience includes performances with the Bruce Katz Band, Toni Lynn Washington Band, Kenny Hadley Big Band, Soul Kitchen, Floyd Dixon, Sid Caesar, Rita Moreno, Bob Newhart, Junior Watson, Janiva Magness and Kid Ramos. Performances throughout the US and Europe include the Boston Globe Jazz Festival, Manchester Jazz and Blues Festival, Boston Blues Festival, The River Festival, and The Natt Jazz Festival in Norway. Recordings include Two Sides with Joe Bargar and the Soul Providers, Mississippi Moan with the Bruce Katz Band, and The George Carlin Show soundtrack.

THE BLACK BOX Summer Concert Series continues on Friday, July 24 at 8 p.m. with the renowned Kenny Hadley Big Band. The critically acclaimed 16-piece juggernaut, led by drummer Kenny Hadley, boasts masterful musicians with performance ties to Big Band legends Woody Herman, Count Basie, Stan Kenton, Maynard Ferguson, Buddy Rich and more. The Kenny Hadley Big Band has shared the stage with such notables as the Count Basie Orchestra and the Duke Ellington Orchestra and has hosted guest soloists including Clark Terry and Louie Bellson.
 
Kenny Hadley Band
Kenny Hadley Band
THE BLACK BOX, the home of the Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC), is located at 15 West Central Street. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for students and seniors. Cash bar available. Doors open at 7:30. For additional event information or to purchase tickets, call (508) 528-3370 or visit www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com.

The Ladybug Trek ends June 30th!

It’s not too late to play and win!

Stop by any of the 15 participating stores today and earn entries toward the grand prize by solving the clues! 

Simply go to: ladybug.citytrek.com to play. The contest ends June 30th.

screen grab of Ladybug Trek locations in Franklin
screen grab of Ladybug Trek locations in Franklin

Ladybug Trek - visit some or all of the 15, and get a free entry into the grand prize drawing
Ladybug Trek - visit some or all of the 15, and get a free entry into the grand prize drawing

For example, when you visit Franklin Liquors you'll find that they have

In-Store Special Raffle Prize You Can Enter To Win!
Solve the clue to enter to win a Bud Summer Package.

Franklin Liquors 'Bud Summer Prize Package"
Franklin Liquors 'Bud Summer Prize Package"

"Opioid addiction is a health care issue that knows no boundaries"

You may have heard that Governor Baker announced several initiatives to address the opioid addiction problem facing the Comonwealth of MA.
“Let me make one thing perfectly clear here. Opioid addiction is a health care issue that knows no boundaries across age, race, class, or demographics,” Baker said. “From the Berkshires to Boston to Cape Cod, too many people have heart-wrenching stories of loved ones and friends that battled with addiction and in some cases lost their lives.” 
Unintentional opioid overdoses claimed an estimated 1,008 lives in Massachusetts in 2014, an increase over the prior year and more than three times the number of lives lost to automobile accidents. 
The report calls for the creation of nearly 200 new treatment beds by July 2016, state funding for school prevention programs to be designed at the local level, a partnership with a chain pharmacy to pilot a drug take-back program, and amendments to the civil commitment statute to include substance abuse disorders.
Continue reading the article in the Commonwealth Magazine here
http://commonwealthmagazine.org/criminal-justice/baker-unveils-plan-on-opioid-addiction/

STOP Addiction in its tracks
STOP Addiction in its tracks

Additional information can be found on the Health and Human Services webpage
http://www.mass.gov/eohhs/gov/departments/dph/stop-addiction/

opioid deaths vs. motor vehicle deaths 200-2013


Claflin Hill Symphony presents 20th anniversary season of Family Night at the Bandstand

The Claflin Hill Symphony Orchestra is proud to announce the opening of the 20th Anniversary Season of concerts at the Milford Musicians Pavilion in Milford Town Park at the corner of Congress and Walnut Streets.
Set to open on Tuesday, June 30, 2015, The Claflin Hill WMRC Family Night at the Bandstand 2015 series will present eight weeks of stellar outdoor concerts performed by some of the best and biggest professional music ensembles in New England.
Concerts take place every Tuesday evening beginning at 6:30 PM. Any concert that is postponed due to inclement weather is automatically rescheduled for Thursday of the same week.  A full schedule of the series is attached.
Cited by The Boston Globe several years ago as "The Cadillac of Summer Concert Series" -- the line up of performers on this summer's series includes all of the perennial favorites of the Family Night audiences –Jerry Seeco and his "Milford Jazz Machine" – a 20 piece powerhouse jazz band; "HELP!", the Beatles tribute band; "The Fantasy Big Band"; "Grupo Fantasia";  "Brass Attack" –  an eight piece horn band that features music of "Chicago" and "Blood, Sweat 'n Tears", and a first time performance this season by "Anger Management" which performs Classic Rock cover tunes.   
The Claflin Hill Symphony Summer Winds – the resident ensemble of Family Night at the Bandstand – will present two performances, one in July and the Series Finale on August 18.
The Claflin Hill Symphony Summer Winds will also be presenting a series of "outreach" "On the Road" concerts this summer, visiting neighboring communities and performing in Grafton, Whitinsville, Blackstone and Medway.  A full schedule of CHSO summer events will be posted on the website.
Claflin Hill's WMRC Family Night at the Bandstand 2015 is made possible with Claflin Hill Business Partnership sponsorships from a number of prominent local businesses – each of whom sponsor an evening of the series. 
Under the overall media sponsorship of WMRC Radio, who provides unlimited free promotion and advertising for the concert series through the summer, returning sponsors this season also include The Milford Federal Savings & Loan Association – (the first and cornerstone sponsor of Family Night in 1996), Unibank, Nitto Denko Avecia Biotechnology, Medway Oil Company, Al Cass Fast Oil, Edwards Memorial Funeral Home, The Consigli Ruggerio Funeral Home, and Waters Corporation.
"It's hard to believe that we're about to launch the 20th year of summer concerts," said Paul Surapine, Executive & Artistic Director of Claflin Hill Symphony Orchestra.  "Starting a summer concert series in 1996 together with the Milford Park Department, we had the goal of rejuvenating a struggling professional ensemble – The Milford Concert Band – insure it's survival and growth, and to build a new audience for outdoor concerts in the "Norman Rockwellian" setting of our Town Park with it's bandstand.  That has since evolved into the Claflin Hill Symphony Orchestra and its many concert presentations and educational outreach programs, and a summer tradition that has already seen an entire generation of children grow up with their memories of summer evenings under the stars experiencing great concerts."
Claflin Hill Orchestra
Claflin Hill Orchestra

Nelly's Sandwich Shop on Central Street in Milford will be in the park every week providing affordable and traditional park concert dinner offerings.
For more information about Family Night at the Bandstand, or Claflin Hill Symphony Orchestra, visit the Claflin Hill website at www.claflinhill.org  The full schedule can be accessed on line, and up to the minute weather/concert status will be posted on the website as well.  Weather status will also be posted on the CHSO voice mail message at 508-478-5924
***
The Claflin Symphony Orchestra, located in Milford, MA, is a powerful regional musical force. Through passionate performances presented by masterful musicians, the CHSO plays a leading role in the cultural enrichment and vitality of Central Massachusetts and MetroWest communities. The CHSO sponsors a remarkable outreach program that helps youth perfect their musical talents and build long-lasting appreciation for music.

Friday, June 26, 2015

Upcoming Events in Franklin, MA Area: FRI 6/26/15 - THU 7/2/15

FRI 6/26   12-6pm   Franklin Farmers Market at The Town Common
FRI 6/26   8-9:50pm   Frozen Friday DJ Public Skate at Pirelli Arena

SUN 6/28   11am   Pollinator Talk with Ed Szymanski at Franklin Community Gardens (King Street)
SUN 6/28   3:30pm   iStories at Franklin Public Library

TUE 6/30  7pm   First Meeting of Franklin Community Coalition on Opioid Abuse at Franklin High School Auditorium

For 4th of July Celebrations in Franklin click HERE.

WED 7/1   6-10pm   4th of July in Franklin: Booths and Rides Open
WED 7/1   7-9pm   4th of July in Franklin: Phantom Band with Tyler Zajac

THU 7/2   6-10pm   4th of July in Franklin: Booths and Rides Open
THU 7/2   7-9pm   4th of July in Franklin: ZOD Band (local youths with Matt Zajac)
   
The Ladybug Trek Small Business Scavenger Hunt is on until 6/30/15. #shopFranklin

For all the Town of Franklin Public Meetings click HERE.

For event details click HERE.

*If you have any suggestions or events for the calendar, please email Renata@BetterLivingRE.com

"I Bet My Life" was a good bet!

With the song "I Bet My Life" fresh in mind, the Town Council  got to business and quickly approved by an 8-1 vote the fire fighters arbitration award funding measure. The vote was by roll call and the one "No" vote was cast courageously by Judith Pond Pfeffer. She did approve of the fire fighters getting the award but wanted to do more for the other unions.

After the vote, the fire fighters and their supporters filed out shaking the hands of the councilors thanking them for their support.

The song had been fresh in mind as the FSPA's "Electric Youth" had come for their annual performance before heading to tour Europe. They left on Thursday to make several performances in multiple locations in France and England.

The FSPA "Electric Youth" introduced themselves before performing "I Bet My LIfe"
The FSPA "Electric Youth" introduced themselves before performing "I Bet My LIfe"

The set of notes reported live from the meeting on Wednesday can be found here:


Photo of supporters in the Municipal Building parking lot before the meeting
Photo of supporters in the Municipal Building parking lot before the meeting

Franklin Food Pantry Recognized for Making an Impact on Community

The Franklin Food Pantry is getting noticed for its efforts to move beyond immediate hunger relief by addressing the root causes of hunger and promoting better nutritional health. The Pantry has received two recognition awards from area organizations: the Red Triangle Award from the Hockomock Area YMCA, and the Community Impact Award from the United Way of Tri-County. 
Both organizations recently applauded the Franklin non-profit for going above and beyond in serving the Franklin community, and for its strong impact on the lives of the nearly 600 families it serves. 
The Red Triangle Award recognizes the Pantry for its “steadfast dedication and partnership with the Hockomock Area YMCA to meet the changing needs of our community.” Through a partnership with the Hockomock Y, the Pantry created a Healthy Futures Shelf that offers clients access to nutritious food. 
Nutrition information is posted with food products so that clients can make informed choices to fit their special dietary needs, such as low fat, high protein or gluten-free. In addition, the Pantry works with the YMCA to offer Cooking Matters classes that educate families how to manage their food budgets and prepare healthy meals. 
“Working with the Hockomock Area YMCA and Stop & Shop, we began to take preventative measures to help combat high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity,” said Erin Lynch, Franklin Food Pantry executive director. “As part of the Y’s Healthy Futures Initiative, we help our clients make healthier food choices and offer them access to more nutritious food, such as fresh produce and high protein items like chicken.” 
The Community Impact Award is given to United Way of Tri-County (UWTC) Community Partners that have changed the lives of the people they serve. The award states that the Franklin Food Pantry, with resources from the UWTC, changed lives by “effectively and innovatively delivering a program that addresses root causes within the areas of Education, Health, Financial Stability or Basic Human Needs.” 

Erin Lynch, executive director of the Franklin Food Pantry, is shown here with the award.
Erin Lynch, executive director of the Franklin Food Pantry, is shown here with the award
Lynch said that thanks to the generous support from organizations such as the United Way of Tri-County and the Hockomock Area YMCA, the Pantry was able to offer programs to empower community members to become more self-sufficient through resources and education. 
Examples include Cooking Matters which teaches families how to shop smarter and cook delicious, affordable meals; and a Healthy Futures Market that offers fresh produce weekly from June to October. The high cost of fresh fruits and vegetables can be a barrier to wholesome nutrition for many families. 
“The money we receive through grants, as well as individual and corporate donations, allows us to go beyond just getting food to people,” said Lynch. “We are able to offer the kind of support and education that can impact our clients for a lifetime.”

"Rail Good Coffee" now open at Franklin/Dean Station

When getting ready to catch the inbound train Thursday morning, I noticed that the doors to the building were open. This had been closed up for a bit after The Cake Bar and Cafe Dolce both gave it a good try.

They were indeed open. It had just opened earlier that morning. Newspapers had not yet started delivery but were scheduled. Train tickets can be purchased. The menu board had a listing of prices for coffee, etc.

Stop in to talk with Randy. Buy a coffee before your ride into Boston the next time you go.

menu board at Rail Good Coffee

"how to create a culture which is no longer a culture just of competition, but a culture of welcoming"

Krista Tippet interviewed Jean Vanier and in the course of their talk Jean said:
"... we must educate people to become capable and to take their place in society. That has value, obviously. But it's not quite the same thing as to educate people to relate, to listen, to help people to become themselves. 
So the equilibrium that people with disabilities could bring is precisely this equilibrium of the heart. Children. 
You see, maybe a father is a very strong man and businessman, and when he comes home, if he gets down on his hands and knees and plays with the children, it's the child that is teaching the father something about tenderness, about love, about the father looking at the needs of the child, the face of the child, the hands of the child, relating to the child. 
And the children, the incredible thing about children is they're unified in their body and in — whereas we, we can be very disunified. We can say one thing and feel another."
You can read the full transcript here
http://onbeing.org/program/jean-vanier-the-wisdom-of-tenderness/transcript/7614#main_content

screen grab of OnBeing website for Jean Vanier interview
screen grab of OnBeing website for Jean Vanier interview


You can listen to the audio here:
http://onbeing.org/program/wisdom-tenderness/234

or watch the video here



Thursday, June 25, 2015

Franklin Library: Genealogy Club - June 25 - 6:30 PM

"Using DNA in your family history research" is the topic for the next Genealogy Club meeting at the Library. Thursday, June 25 at 6:30 PM.

genealogy club - 6/25/15 - 6:30 PM
genealogy club - 6/25/15 - 6:30 PM

This was shared from the Franklin Library webpage
http://franklinpl.blogspot.com/2015/06/genealogy-club-thursday-june-25-2015.html


In the News: 3 alarm fire, fire fighter deal approved



A three-alarm fire ripped through the basement and first floor of a Washington Street house early Wednesday morning, causing roughly $200,000 in damages. 
Crews responded to the two-and-a-half floor home at 886 Washington St. just before 1 a.m. to find heavy smoke on the first floor and fire in the basement. 
No one was home at the time of the fire. Smoke reached the second floor, but fire never took hold.


http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20150624/NEWS/150627973/1994/NEWS



The town Council approved four years of retroactive salary compensation for the fire department by an 8-1 vote Wednesday night, ending a four-year dispute and drawing cheers from local firefighters. 
After roughly 150 firefighters and union members from around the state demonstrating in the town hall parking lot, dozens of firefighters filed the council chamber for a decision that would increase their pay for the first time since 2011. After the votes were tallied, the firefighters applauded the council before shaking hands with council members as they made their way out the door. 
The firefighters’ union president, Bob Donovan, observed the handshakes looked a bit like hockey teams at the end of a game. 
“This decision was hard-fought,” he said. “But at the end of the day, it’s important to shake hands and look forward."

http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20150624/NEWS/150627961/1994/NEWS

Attn FHS Students: Grants for High School Seniors

Franklin Rotary Grant Application


Dear High School Senior,

As your high school experience is coming to a close, it is time to contemplate, plan and make decisions that will affect your future. Part of that process is determining how to pay for a college education. The cost of furthering your education is high but the failure to obtain additional knowledge will cost you even more. Our members understand this and recognize the significant expense and sacrifice that often accompanies its pursuit. With this in mind the Rotary Club of Franklin, as it has for many years, continues to offer graduating high school seniors from Bellingham, Franklin, Tri–County, and King Phillip High Schools an opportunity to receive scholarships to offset the expense of higher education.

The Rotary Club is an international service organization that is dedicated to world peace through service to others and an increased awareness of people's needs through education. Based on this premise, each application for the Franklin Rotary Club Grant is evaluated on the basis of community involvement, financial need, and academic achievement.

To apply for a Grant please complete the attached pdf application.

Please return it as soon as possible and before the June 30, 2015 deadline to:

Julie Rougeau
Rotary Grant Chair
5 East Street
Franklin MA 02038


On behalf of the Rotary Club of Franklin we wish you good luck and best wishes.

Sincerely,

Julie Rougeau
Chair -- Rotary Club of Franklin Grant Committee

Franklin High School
Franklin High School


The Law Office of Julie A. Rougeau
5 East Street
Franklin, MA  02038

office phone:  508-541-4424
fax:  508-541-4421
e-mail: 
jrougeau@comcast.net

The information in this email and subsequent attachments may contain confidential information that is intended solely for the attention and use of the named addressee(s).  This message or any part thereof must not be disclosed, copied, distributed or retained by any person without authorization from the addressee.

MBTA : Starting June 29: Franklin Line schedule change



Effective Monday, June 29, the Franklin Line will have a modified schedule. Please visit www.mbta.com for details


  • Train 790 will arrive at South Station 3 minutes later at 6:18 a.m. changed from 6:15 a.m.
  • Train 736 will depart from Norwood Central at 5:32 p.m. changed from 5:22 p.m.


Last updated: Jun 23 2015 03:59 PM

Click here for more information: http://www.mbta.com/rider_tools/transit_updates/?ttype=cr&advistory=true&route=Franklin+Line#details
Sent by the MBTA.



Reminder: for those not already paying for parking by phone, you'll pay more in July. The old payment slots are being decommissioned (taken away).

http://www.franklinmatters.org/2015/06/mbta-commuter-alert-starting-july-6.html

current payment slot board at Franklin/Dean Station
current payment slot board at Franklin/Dean Station

Wednesday, June 24, 2015

Live reporting: Legislation through to closing


B. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – 7:00 PM - none to approve


C. ANNOUNCEMENTS – This meeting is being recorded by Franklin TV and shown on
Comcast channel 11 and Verizon channel 29. This meeting may be recorded by others.

D. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS

E. CITIZEN COMMENTS
none

F. APPOINTMENTS – 2015 Annual Committee Appointments

reading the list of the appointments as shown in the agenda document
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_CouncilAgendas/2015%20Complete%20With%20Documents/062415.pdf

motion to approve, seconded, passed 9-0

G. HEARINGS
none

H. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS
none

I. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS
none

J. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
none

K. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION

2. Resolution 15-44: Appropriation – Other Post Employment Stabilization Fund
using some free cash to help fund the OPEB
investment trust fund to come back this summer with a plan to fund

motion to approve,  seconded, passed 9-0 (via roll call)

3. Resolution 15-45: Appropriation – Roads/Sidewalks/Drainage/Storm water/ Infrastructure
motion to approve, seconded, passed 9-0

uses the last of the free cash from FY 2015, the money has not yet be programmed but makes sense to use it here

L. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
thank the Council for their vote

road work continues, paving Summer and Main St - Tue-Wed-Thu-

want to do the work to get out of the way before the 4th celebrations

looking to pass papers for the Rec Dept building

Mr Calarese going to Planning Board soon

the PSA for the needles done by the school, Fire, Police (posted to Franklin Matters)


next Tues - Coalition meeting at FHS


M. OLD BUSINESS

none

N. NEW BUSINESS

none

O. COUNCIL COMMENTS

Dellorco - June 30th Coalition meeting at FHS
lots of folks coming, Fire to talk about the NARCAM
Drug folks to talk and provide info

Bissanti - meeting of EDC to review RFP's scheduled for 7/15


Kelly - Pfeffer, Nutting went to the over-90 lunch

there was a long listing of folks over 90

Bissanti - thanks to the Franklin Elks

attended the Flag day ceremony

P. ADJOURN

motion to adjourn, passed 9-0

Live reporting: Town Council - June 24, 2015

Present: Feldman, Padula, Mercer, Kelly, Vallee, Pfeffer, Bissanti, Williams, Dellorco
Absent: none


A. EXECUTIVE SESSION
– Strategy with Respect to Pending Litigation and Collective Bargaining re Fire Fighter’s Union


B. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – 7:00 PM

C. ANNOUNCEMENTS – This meeting is being recorded by Franklin TV and shown on
Comcast channel 11 and Verizon channel 29. This meeting may be recorded by others.

D. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS
Raye Lynn Mercer
introduces Electric Youth for a performance before they leave for France and England

Electric Youth introduces themselves before performing "I bet my Life"
Electric Youth introduces themselves before performing "I bet my Life"

a song by Imagine Dragons "I bet my Life"
http://www.directlyrics.com/imagine-dragons-bet-my-life-lyrics.html


K. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION

1. Resolution 15-43: Appropriation – FY15 Fire Wages (Arbitration Award)
taking the agenda out of order due to the crowd gathered, 
motion to approve, seconded, 

9 municipal bargaining units, 6% agreement over the four years
had not settled with the Fire Fighters
went to arbitration with the Fire Fighters
award runs concurrent with other union agreements
would need to start into a successor contract for the new period
Council had been putting money aside in anticipation of the award
final deal to allocate the funds to meet the deal
so we have enough money to cover the funding required

so Jeff Nutting is looking to settle this issue
strongly suggesting an affirmative vote

Chuck Allen, Vice President Fire Fighters local union
fire fighters lag behind in comparative salaries
don't want to let the fire dept become the dept of last resort
the report the arbitrator has outlined the summaries

the Council (and other before us) have done much for Franklin
new school, updates to the Library, etc.
however, Franklin is more than just bricks and mortar
without the best people, Franklin would not be the best place in the Commonwealth
voting no would only hurt our families and our community
voting yes would allow us to go forward

vote via roll call - passed 8-1 (Pfeffer)
objecting as she thinks the other unions should get the same increases


Needle Safety Public Service Announcement (video)

Franklin collaborating again.

The Police, Fire, and Public Schools (Panther TV) got together to produce this public service announcement on what to do when you find a needle.





Used needles can be safely disposed of at the kiosk located at the Police Station on Panther Way
http://www.town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Health/needles.pdf

Remember that prescription drugs can be safely disposed of at the Police Station
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_PoliceNews/DrugSafe.pdf


FHS Emily Jeffries named All American

Via the Twitter feed:



Emily Jeffries scored four of Franklin's 20 goals on Wednesday against Mansfield. Julia Jette added four of her own and Emily Spath had a hat trick. (Josh Perry/HockomockSports.com)
Emily Jeffries scored four of Franklin's 20 goals on Wednesday against Mansfield. Julia Jette added four of her own and Emily Spath had a hat trick. (Josh Perry/HockomockSports.com)

Downtown Project: Update #5


The binder course (base coat) will be put down on Summer Street on July 1 or 2 depending on the weather. 
The binder course will be put down on High Street and Main Street from Pleasant to School Street during the same time period. 
They will begin replacing the Emmons Street sidewalk at the end of this week or next week. 
Work at the corner of Emmons and West Central Street (old municipal building) will commence next week, including the installation of the traffic light bases. 
The period lighting bases installation will continue over the summer at several locations. 
The sidewalk reconstruction of West Central Street will begin mid to late July. 
If anyone has a question, please feel free to reach out to the DPW Director, Brutus Cantoreggi or Town Engineer, Michael Maglio at 508-553-5500 or my office at 508-520-4949.
Main St under construction
Main St under construction

Pollinator Talk in the King St. Community Garden June 28th at 11AM

Ed Szymanski will be giving at a talk at the King St. Community Garden this Sunday, June 28th, at 1PM. Please join us to learn about the role that pollinators play in making the community garden a success each year.

bee on flower
bee on flower
​Updated 6/25 - 8:00 PM - > Note: We've moved the time of the pollinator event to coincide with that morning's workday. The workday will run from 9am until 11am. At 11am the pollinator event will start and will run until approximately noon.


If you plan on attending please RSVP to franklincommunitygardens@gmail.com so we have a rough head count as there will be handouts.

Sincerely,

The Franklin Community Garden Committee

In the News: Online voter registration, social media for cold cases, teacher award at Tri-County



Secretary of the Commonwealth William F. Galvin announced today that the state has implemented online voter registration which allows an applicant to apply to register, change party status or change address for voter registration purposes. 
“In a way, this represents the start of the 2016 presidential election here,” said Galvin in a press release. “The 2016 presidential primary is just eight months away, and this system will make it easier for residents to register to vote.” 
Galvin said that voter registration normally peaks in presidential election years.

http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20150623/NEWS/150628899/1994/NEWS


Police hope the social media blast will bring new light to the cases. 
“We have to keep the fire going,” said Chief Stephan Semerjian. “Someone out there knows information helpful to police.” 
In many area communities, police departments have taken to social media to connect with the community. It’s the fastest, easiest way to get information out, said Semerjian. 
“It’s just the way it is with society. Everyone is high speed now,” he said.

http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20150623/NEWS/150628629/1994/NEWS


The Paul Revere Chapter of the Air Force Association named Kristen Magas, an engineering technology instructor at Tri-County Regional, its 2015 Teacher of the Year. 
Paul Zauner, president of the AFA Paul Revere Chapter, visited the school on June 18 to present Magas with the award. School Committee Chairman Robert Wilkinson, Principal Jean Mallon, and several of Magas' engineering technology students also attended the presentation. 
Magas was named a runner-up for the State Teacher of the Year Award.

http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20150623/NEWS/150628714/1994/NEWS

Tuesday, June 23, 2015

Live reporting: Closing


5. Information Matters
Superintendent’s Report
Kristen Circe received an MIAA award

modulars coming down next week at Davis Thayer

new assistant principals to be joining the high school
3 promoting from within the district

anyone interested in substance abuse task force, meeting Jun 30th at FHS
will be a lot of work for anyone who wants to be part of it


School Committee Sub
finished policies, will continue work on the rest of the book

budget subcommittee working on lunch prices

Committee Reports
School Committee Liaison Reports

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

Reminder on FEF fund raiser for Harlem Wizards coming in November

Trahan mentioned it was good to see efforts to support the local businesses while downtown is undergoing construction - #shopFranklin



8. Adjourn
motion to adjourn, seconded, passed

citizen who did not get to speak earlier asked about when he could do so before the meeting officially closed. "Next meeting or via correspondence" was the reply. (not sure when he had arrived but he might have missed the citizens comments section)


Live reporting: Action Items


4. Action Items
a. I recommend moving the following Policies to a second reading:
1. KF – Community Use of School Facilities
2. KF-E1 – Rules and Regulations
3. KF-E2 – FHS Building Use
4. KF-E3 – Facility Rental Fee Schedule
5. KF-E4 – FHS Facility Rental Fee Schedule
6. KF-E5 – FHS Grounds Rental Fees
7. (NEW)GCCD – Domestic Violence Leave Policy

motion to move to second reading, seconded, passed

b. I recommend the acceptance of two checks totaling $589.71 for FHS as follows:
1. $189.71 Ahold Financial Svc. – Gift Account
2. $400.00 John T. Ombelets/ Elizabeth A. John - Scholarship
motion to move to second reading, seconded, passed

c. I recommend acceptance of two checks totaling $2,370.16 for Keller Elementary School as follows:
1. $370.16 O’Connor Portraiture, Inc. – In-house enrichment
2. $2,000.00 IBM - supplemental curriculum materials
motion to move to second reading, seconded, passed

d. I recommend acceptance of the donation of a Maple Tree (value $150 - 250) from the JF Kennedy PCC for playground shade at JF Kennedy Elementary School.
motion to move to second reading, seconded, passed

e. I recommend acceptance of a check for $150.00 from the Parmenter PCC for a Field Trip.
motion to move to second reading, seconded, passed

f. I recommend acceptance of a check for $25.00 from Target’s Thanks a Billion Program for supplemental supplies at Davis Thayer Elementary School.
motion to move to second reading, seconded, passed

Live Reporting: Policy updates


3. Discussion Only Items

Policy
– First Readings:

KF – Community Use of School Facilities
KF-E1 – Rules and Regulations
KF-E2 – FHS Building Use (new)
KF-E3 – Facility Rental Fee Schedule
KF-E4 – FHS Facility Rental Fee Schedule
KF-E5 – FHS Grounds Rental Fees



- (NEW)
GCCD – Domestic Violence Leave Policy

(policy documents hopefully to be added later, the documents used to be released pre-meeting but recently have not been)



Live reporting: Jefferson / FHS Guidance Presentations


2. Guests/Presentations

b. Jefferson Elementary Update
– Linda Ashley, Sarah Klim

video slide show highlighting activities throughout the school year


c. FHS Guidance Update
– Heather McVay, Josh MacCreery & Jennifer D’Amico




first change is they really are the Franklin guidance dept. covering grades 6-12

developing a curriculum model to spend more time in the classroom rather than just one-on-one with students

guidance seminars developed career seminars
worked with seniors, then freshman, juniors and sophomores

survey showed reduced stress among students with college process, more knowledgeable about scholarship process

student feedback was highlighting that they appreciated the importance of the transcript and how much freshman year really meant to the overall process

worked with the Juniors beginning in January
general info to the larger classes, and then dig deeper into the specifics during the 1-on-1
Naviance - ins and outs of the program and search options

met with the sophomores in the 4th quarter
preparing for junior year and career options
the career plan is a fluid doc but it is started and can be modified as the student progresses through high school

first comment on the high school that has raised a space issue where the prior planning for the new school clearly had not been prepared for the changes in the guidance program (nor could it realistically have been prepared for).

Jennifer D'Amico covered the middle school program




curriculum delivered differently at the 3 middle school but the content was consistent across the schools

first time for middle schools to get exposed to career inventory and career options; look at themselves as a learner, a worker

also looking at developing a curriculum to cover the 5th to 6th grade transition

O'Malley - guidance is the glue that makes schools go, I am impressed
I am impressed with how far we have come
having councilors talk to the 8th graders and their parents is great
having councilors in the classrooms is great
How does the high school or middle school handle a student with a personal or family issue?

Jen - They incorporate the family in the response at the middle school

At the High School, rely heavily on the adjustment councilors and work together with assistant principals as well as part of the team to approach the student situation

Jewel - Concerned about dealing with the problems and not being able to get to the student who can excel; how much with problems versus dealing with the excellence that is required?

With any problem, there is that underlying problem; the communications with the individual teachers is ongoing and priceless; the team approach is key

The great thing about the seminar is being out there creating a presence with the students; at the high school there is the three people to provide support. At the middle school, there is only the one person. 

Maureen - there is also the school psychologists at each of the schools who are good resources. There have been three years of moving walls, to get to this point. Looking to expand further to the kindergarten so it will truly be K-12

Jewell - it is important to get to the students early to get them excited about the STEM arena. Do you use professionals for some examples

One of our goals is to host a career fair for student, if a student has an interest, we do reach out to those where we can. the Senior Project is one particular area that addresses that well.

Clement - How do you strike the balance between showing them options and setting the path? It is good we are giving them the tools

Jen - they explored the options, these are considerations, what is may change many times, it is more about the future planning, not making the final decision

Rohrbach - I know from a parents point of view how overwhelming this can be. This is excellent, thank you

Mullen - When you stop and think about it, you realize how much it has changed over the last several years. Thank you

The seminars are helpful in getting the general info out and are able to have a focused discussion with the individual students

Jen - One of the things to be added to the middle school is to get a better feel on how much the numbers will help in predicting the rising student populations

Live reporting: School Committee - June 23, 2015

Present: Douglas, O'Malley, Rohrbach, Clement, Mullen, Trahan, Jewell
Absent: none


1. Routine Business
Citizen’s Comments - none

  • Chandler Creedon, President Franklin Education Assoc

last time as President, stepping down after 7 years, to devote time to other matters; meeting the goal can only be achieved through sustained effort
thank you

Review of Agenda - none
Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the June 9, 2015 School Committee Meeting. 
motion to approve, seconded, passed 7-0

Payment of Bills - Mr. Clement
motion to approve, seconded, passed 7-0

Payroll - Mrs. Douglas

FHS Student Representatives - none

Correspondence:
Budget to Actual – Miriam Goodman

Special recognition for Maureen Barker, had been recording the minutes of the School Committee for the past several years


2. Guests/Presentations
a. Remington Middle School Update
- Paul Peri, Brian Wildeman
Carly Alston, Allison Ivers, Sean Henderson

"The Dawg House"
the school store at Remington

The school store is available online
http://remingtonmiddle.vt-s.net/Pages/FranklinMS_WebDocs/thedawghousecatalog.pdf

The top 10 books sold at the store came from a vote by the student body

locker accessories also for sale

proceeds from the sales go to buying more stuff to sale

more collaboration planned with the Student Council next year

(presentation copy to be added later)
(5 minutes recess)