Saturday, November 21, 2015

The panther has returned (finally)!

The panther statue has been installed among the new fields on the ground of Franklin High School. I captured these photos on my walk last weekend. The panther statue is a gift from the Graci Family in memory of their daughter Kristen Graci, a 2007 graduate of FHS who died at 21 from complications with leukemia. 
(If you are not familiar with the story, you can fill in some details herehere, and here.)

Some of you may recall that I also wrote these same two paragraphs last August. The original panther was not what was ordered so it was removed and has come back to settle in (finally!).

You can read the remainder of what I wrote in August here
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2015/08/the-panther-has-arrived.html


A walk around the panther enabled the following photos:


....
FHS Panther
....

HS Panther - "Franklin athletes never quit"
FHS Panther - "Franklin athletes never quit"

The 2nd Annual HockomockSports.com Charity Soccer All Star Event


What You Need To Know:

What: The 2nd Annual HockomockSports.com Charity Soccer All Star Event

When: November 21st, 2015
Girls Game – 11:00AM
Boys Game – 1:00 PM

Where: Attleboro High School

The 2nd Annual HockomockSports.com Charity Soccer All Star Event
The 2nd Annual HockomockSports.com Charity Soccer All Star Event

Events:
HockomockSports.com Girls Soccer Charity All Star Game
HockomockSports.com Boys Soccer Charity All Star Game

Tickets will be $5 for adults and $3 for students/children.

Players are selected strictly by the HockomockSports.com staff.

*Any players still playing in the MIAA playoffs will not play.

For the listing of players and additional details
http://www.hockomocksports.com/events/soccer/2015-2/

The Tri-County Insider







November 18


A Message from the Principal:

On this, my first installment in the TC Insider, I want to thank all of you for the many well wishes and help in getting acclimated to the district. Most of all, I'd like to thank Jean Mallon for her willingness to stay on until last week and ensure a smooth transition. Mrs. Mallon has left behind a very positive and encouraging legacy of accomplishment and learning. Her influence on the school will be felt for many years.

I have enjoyed getting to know the faculty, staff, parents, and especially the students. I have been most impressed with the students. The culture and community of the school is very positive and that is a credit to the communities and families that make up our district. I especially want to thank the faculty as well, both academic and vocational, for their encouraging welcome and patience as I learn names and ask a multitude of questions that they very patiently answer.

The TC Insider has been invaluable to me in getting to know what is going in our district and communities and I look forward to being a part of this bi-weekly publication. I have attended many events already, ranging from athletic games to the National Honor Society induction ceremony this past Monday. I want to congratulate our Cheerleaders, Boys and Girls Soccer teams and Volleyball teams on their great seasons and championships. It was extremely rewarding to watch them play and represent the school so well.

I am especially looking forward to our Thanksgiving Eve football game for the Cougar Cup at Bellingham High as the TC Cougars will finish their season in quest of the Cougar Cup and returning it to its rightful place here at Tri-County. Hopefully, I will see many of you there to support the team and the cheerleaders as we close out the fall season.

Thanks again,
Mr. Procaccini

TC News:

National Honor Society
The Peter Ricard Chapter of the National Honor Society held its induction on Monday, November 16. Read more

Athletic News
The Varsity Cheerleading Team will be competing at the State Competition on Sunday at Algonquin High School. Tri-County is providing a fan bus. Sign-ups are taking place all week in the cafeteria during all three lunches.

Ski Club Deadline is Approaching!
The Ski Club will begin their weekly trips to Wachusett Mountain beginning on January 9, 2016. The club visits Wachusett each Saturday from 2:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. for six weeks. Applications are due NO LATER than Tuesday, November 24. Please see Ms. Johannesen for more information and to pick up your application.






Upcoming Events

Nov. 23 and 24 in Gerry's Place

Nov. 24, 6 p.m. in the auditorium




About The TC Insider

The TC Insider is a biweekly newsletter for the families of Tri-County students.














Tri-County RVTHS
147 Pond Street
Franklin, MA 02038
www.tri-county.us
508-528-5400







Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical School District · 147 Pond Street · Franklin, Ma 02038 · USA

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screen grab of Tri-County webpage
screen grab of Tri-County webpage

In the News: FPAC holiday performances, food elves are back!

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin

The Franklin Performing Arts Company will stage three productions this holiday season, featuring Tchaikovsky’s ballet “The Nutcracker” and the original FPAC musicals, “Snow White and the Seven Elves” and “’Tis the Season!” 
Franklin Performing Arts Company’s production of “The Nutcracker” is presented with professional orchestra, special guest artists and over 100 area dancers. FPAC will present “The Nutcracker” at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 5 and 2 p.m. Dec. 6 at the Franklin High School auditorium, 218 Oak St. 
Franklin Performing Arts Company’s family-friendly musical “Snow White and the Seven Elves” debuts this season at The Black Box, 15 West Central St. Performances are at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Dec. 12 and 2 p.m. Dec. 13.

Read the full article online here (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20151120/NEWS/151129199/1994/NEWS


Franklin Food Pantry
Franklin Food Pantry

The Franklin Food Elves and the Downtown Partnership will launch the “12 Days of Donating” campaign to benefit the Franklin Food Pantry on Dec. 1. This year’s collection drive marks 10 years that the Food Elves have helped neighbors in need during the holiday season. 
The Food Elves were created in 2006 when Melissa and Cameron Piana began collecting donations in a wagon in their neighborhood. Last year more than 90 school-aged "elves" and 14 local businesses collected 7,020 pounds of goods and raised $8,500 for the food pantry. This year the pantry acquired additional warehouse space to accommodate the expected donations. 
“We are looking forward to building on the success the Food Elves have had, and this year we hope to raise more money. The food pantry can buy a lot with those funds, and we hope to surpass last year’s dollar totals,” says Ellie Teixeira, lead Food Elf.

Read the full article online here (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20151120/NEWS/151128978

In the News: Clerk and Council member take roles, Mother of Night, Scout Pancake breakfast

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin
The town saw its new town clerk and final Town Council member get sworn in Friday after a recount delayed the two from assuming their positions. 
Teresa Burr was sworn in as Franklin's first new town clerk in 31 years, while outgoing Town Clerk Deborah Pellegri was sworn in to her new seat on the council. 
The matter had been delayed because of a challenge to the result of the Nov. 3 town election. Town Clerk candidate Diane Padula-O'Neill requested a recount in that race, as Burr had defeated her by only 32 votes - a margin of less than 1 percent.
Read the full article online here (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20151120/NEWS/151128982



The Women’s Spirituality Gathering at Franklin Universalist Society in Franklin, 262 Chestnut St., will celebrate early for the winter solstice through honoring the Mother of the Night from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 6. 
The group will honor goddesses associated with the longest night, or the winter solstice. The winter solstice falls around Dec. 21-22, depending on astronomical variations and time zones.

Read the full article online here (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20151120/NEWS/151129296/1994/NEWS


Franklin Cub Scout Pack 126 will hold its annual All-You-Can-Eat Pancake Breakfast with Santa from 8-11 a.m. Dec. 5 at the Elks Lodge, 1077 Pond St. 
The cost is $7 per person. Ages 2 and younger are free. Breakfast includes pancakes, eggs, sausage, orange juice, coffee and tea. Santa will be available for photos for a cost of $5 each. 
The breakfast will include a raffle with themed baskets. 
For information, contact 508-962-6726.

Read the full article online here (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20151120/NEWS/151129371/1994/NEWS

Franklin Liquors: Thanksgiving newsletter

Thanksgiving Time Is Here!

This Newsletter Has Our Wine And Food Pairing Suggestions.

Also Included Are Some Wine Recommendations.

We Are Here To Help You Find A Special Wine To Share With Family And Friends.

All Year We Research And Taste To Find The Best Wines In The World.

Franklin Liquors Newsletter for Thanksgiving
Franklin Liquors Newsletter for Thanksgiving

Friday, November 20, 2015

Upcoming Events in Franklin, MA Area: FRI 11/20/15 - THU 11/26/15

FRIDAY 11/20/15
1pm   FDP Networking Luncheon at Dean College
6pm   Trivia Night at Horace Mann MS
6:30pm   Family Paint Night at Franklin Art Center
7pm   Middle School Dance (grades 5-8) at Tri-County HS
7:30pm   The Black Box: Rising Stars Cabaret
8-9:50pm   Frozen Friday DJ Public Skate at Pirelli Arena
9pm   Comedy Night featuring Paul Keenan at “3” Restaurant

SATURDAY 11/21/15
9am-3pm   Book Sale at the Franklin Public Library with live music by Betty Kushner at 9-10am
2pm   The Black Box Children’s Series: Jamie Barrett

SUNDAY 11/22/15
7:30-10:30am   Weekly Sunday morning breakfast at Franklin Rod and Gun Club, open to public.
9am-12pm   Winter Beautification Downtown Franklin, contact Eileen Mason if you would like to help out: emason4234@gmail.com
9am-12pm   Bag Sale at Franklin Public Library (fill up a paper bag with books for only $5)
12-3pm   Holiday Vendor Shopping at The Cake Bar
2pm   FSPA in The Box: Amahl and the Night Visitors (at The Black Box)
7pm   Franklin Interfaith Council Thanskgiving Service at Franklin Federated Church

MONDAY 11/23/15
9am   Tea and Tangles at the Franklin Art Center (come Zentangle)
10am-12:30pm   Annual Pie Sale at Tri-County HS (Gerry’s Place)

TUESDAY 11/24/15
10am-12:30pm   Annual Pie Sale at Tri-County HS (Gerry’s Place)

WEDNESDAY 11/25/15
9:30am   Kids Paint: Owl at the Franklin Art Center

THURSDAY 11/26/15 - ***HAPPY THANKSGIVING!***
8am   Annual Turkey Trot Family 5K Fun Run - to benefit Franklin Food Pantry. Race begins at 8am. Entry fee $20 or 20 nonperishable food items.
More details HERE.

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

FHS represented on the Hockomock League Girls Soccer All Stars

From Hockomock Sports, we share the official Hockomock League Girls Soccer All Stars, selected by the coaches in the league.


HOCKOMOCK LEAGUE MVP

Francesca Calabraro, Oliver Ames
FHS Panthers
FHS Panthers


HOCKOMOCK LEAGUE ALL STARS


  • Victoria Stowell, Franklin
  • Dani Lonati, Franklin
  • Meghan Dieterle, Franklin
  • Alexis Stowell, Franklin



HONORABLE MENTIONS


  • Lauren Rudolph, Franklin

For the complete listing

FHS represented on the Hockomock League Boys Soccer All Stars

From Hockomock Sports, we share "the official Hockomock League Boys Soccer All Stars, selected by the coaches in the league."


HOCKOMOCK LEAGUE MVP

Devante Teixeira, Foxboro
FHS Panthers
FHS Panthers


HOCKOMOCK LEAGUE ALL STARS


  • Nick Parent, Franklin
  • Henri Guilmette, Franklin
  • Dan Geraci, Franklin



HONORABLE MENTIONS


  • Hatim Brahimi, Franklin

For the complete listing

Stay in touch with updates from the SAFE Coalition


Please like our SAFE Coalition Facebook page and follow us on Twitter. Lots of programs and initiatives to battle our drug epidemic. Stay tuned.

Looking for news and resources on substance abuse, recovery and support?


*Follow us on Twitter: @safecoalitionma

*Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/safecoalitionma

*Visit our website for event details contact information and more: www.safecoalitionma.com

FHS represented on the Hockomock League Volleyball All Stars

From Hockomock Sports, we share "the official Hockomock League Volleyball All Stars, selected by the coaches in the league."


HOCKOMOCK LEAGUE MVP

Elizabeth Hamilton, Canton

FHS Panthers
FHS Panthers

HOCKOMOCK LEAGUE ALL STARS


  • Dayna McCue, Franklin
  • Beth Neal, Franklin
  • Caroline Maguire, Franklin



HONORABLE MENTIONS


  • Aubrie Kutil, Franklin



For the complete listing of the Volleyball All-Stars
http://www.hockomocksports.com/the-2015-hockomock-volleyball-all-stars-honorable-mentions/

Turkey Trot in Franklin on Thanksgiving to Benefit Franklin Food Pantry


It's a worthwhile price to pay when you register for the annual Turkey Trot Family 5K Fun Run and Walk to be held Thanksgiving morning. The registration fee of $20, or 20 nonperishable food items, will go directly to the Franklin Food Pantry, keeping donations local to help those in need during this holiday season. 

Franklin Food Pantry
Sponsored by Feed the Need, the event begins and ends at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (LDS Church) at 91 Jordan Road in Franklin. The race, open to runners and walkers of all ages, is a great opportunity for the entire family to get out and exercise together before their traditional Thanksgiving feast. And, there's the added benefit of helping to relieve hunger in the community. 

"We are inspired by the great turnout for the Franklin race," said Erin Lynch, executive director for the Franklin Food Pantry. "Thanksgiving is a time for everyone to truly appreciate what they have, but also an occasion to think of others who are struggling to put food on their tables. The Turkey Trot rallies our community to give back and help protect others from the threat of hunger. We are grateful to Feed the Need for spearheading the race and raising awareness about our own need in Franklin."

The November 26 race will begin at 8 a.m. To participate in the Turkey Trot, you can pre-register online at www.feedtheneed.org; or sign up the day of the race from 7 – 8 a.m., or 7 – 9 p.m. the night before, at the LDS Church. The first 100 race participants to register Wednesday night will receive race t-shirts. For those interested in making food donations instead of the $20 registration fee, the Pantry is in most need of tuna, canned fruit, and health and hygiene products such as deodorant.

For more information, call 508-520-9864.

The entire Kilburn family of Franklin was among the almost 400 individuals who participated in last year's Turkey Trot

"you’ve come to the right imperfect place"

The Special Ed Parent Advisory Council is pleased to present Patty and Gina, imperfect sisters, and authors of Shut Up About Your Perfect Kid, A Survival Guide for Ordinary Parents of Special Children and creators of The Movement of Imperfection

Designed for caregivers of special children, this humorous, heartwarming 90-minute workshop is based on their best selling book. Using hilarious anecdotes and fun exercises (no Spandex required), the sisters will show attendees how to let go of the expectations they have for their children and embrace the reality.


  • Does the school principal have your family’s phone number on speed dial?
  • Are you on a first-name basis with your pharmacist?
  • Do you carry noise cancelling headphones in your purse?
  • Do you host parades when your child tries a new food?
  • Does “date night” with your spouse consist of couple’s therapy?
  • Does your idea of a “beauty day” consist of one in which you’ve combed your hair?”

If you answered “Yes” to any of these questions, you’ve come to the right imperfect place.
The Movement of Imperfection
The Movement of Imperfection

In addition to sharing the same sense of humor, cramped childhood bedroom, and the habit of talking about themselves in the third person, Gina Gallagher and Patricia Konjoian are sisters and among the growing number of parents raising children with disabilities. Gina’s daughter, Katie, has Asperger’s syndrome and Patty’s daughter Jennifer has bipolar disorder.

The event is open to the public, for more information please contact the Director of Student Services, Mrs. Pat Fairbanks. Learn more about this year’s Special Ed PAC speakers on their website.

In the News: recount adds one to Burr, roadwork wrapping up, cupcake decorating class, PARCC results for Charter School

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin

"After a four-hour recount session, Teresa Burr was affirmed as the winner of the town clerk election. 
Burr, who led the election-night tally, widened her margin of victory over second-place finisher Diane Padula-O'Neill by one vote, taking the race 1,114 to 1,081. 
The recount, which took place in the council chambers at the Franklin Municipal Building, had election workers hand-counting the cast ballots. They were overseen by observers from both campaigns."

Read the full article online here (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20151119/NEWS/151115003/1994/NEWS


"Roadwork in town is wrapping up as the winter months near, according to town officials. 
Town Administrator Jeffrey Nutting told the Town Council at its Wednesday night meeting that projects in town were drawing to a close. 
"We're hoping the weather holds while we finish up Oak Street," he said, noting that the road there needs paving. 
Nutting spoke about the downtown improvement project, which will be ending for the season, but will resume next year."
new traffic calming island on Oak St
new traffic calming island on Oak St

Read the full article online here (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20151119/NEWS/151114990/1994/NEWS


"Franklin Public Schools, Lifelong Learning Institute and the Center for Adult Education & Community Learning will host a cupcake-decorating event from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 2 at Franklin High School, 218 Oak St."

Read the full article online here (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20151119/NEWS/151115477/1994/NEWS


"Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School students outperformed state averages on all tests on the new Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers tests taken last spring. 
Across all grade levels tested, students at BFCCPS averaged an 81 percent proficiency rate on PARCC English language arts exams and 70 percent in math, compared to average statewide proficiency rates of 46 percent and 45 percent, respectively."

Read the full article online here (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20151120/NEWS/151129981/1994/NEWS


Thursday, November 19, 2015

Franklin Lions Candy Drop collects over 550 pounds


From November 1 - 7, the Franklin Lions Club collected candy for their 3rd Annual Candy Drop. All candy donated is delivered to troops overseas through Operation Gratitude. 
This year, thanks to the parishioners of St. Mary's, and families of Jefferson Elementary, Parmenter Elementary and Stapleton Elementary in Framingham, a total of 556 pounds was collected, sorted, boxed and shipped to support our troops. The largest collection yet. The club also donated 25 tooth care kits. 
Upcoming events include the Bellingham/Franklin Senior Luncheon on Saturday, December 5 and Painting with the Easter Bunny on Saturday, March 12. Please be on the lookout for more details. 
candy collection 01
candy collection 01

candy collection 02
candy collection 02
Any questions please contact the club directly at franklinmalions@gmail.com or visit our website http://www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/franklinma.



FHS represented on the Hockomock League Field Hockey All Stars

Below are the official Hockomock League Field Hockey All Stars, selected by the coaches in the league, shared from Hockomock Sports.


HOCKOMOCK LEAGUE MVP

Angela Connolly, Stoughton
FHS Panthers
FHS Panthers

HOCKOMOCK LEAGUE ALL STARS


  • Samantha Jones, Franklin
  • Taylor Reutlinger, Franklin
  • Kenzie Pleshaw, Franklin
  • Annie Walsh, Franklin



HONORABLE MENTIONS


  • Abby Egan, Franklin


For the complete listing of All Stars follow the link here
http://www.hockomocksports.com/the-2015-hockomock-field-hockey-all-stars/

FHS represented on the Hockomock League Golf All Stars

Below are the official Hockomock League Golf All Stars, selected by the coaches in the league and shared from the Hockomock Sports.


HOCKOMOCK LEAGUE MVP

Ryan Tomaso, Milford

FHS Panthers
FHS Panthers

HOCKOMOCK LEAGUE ALL STARS


  • Bryan Woelfel, Franklin



HONORABLE MENTIONS


  • Matt Dao, Franklin


For the full listing
http://www.hockomocksports.com/the-2015-hockomock-golf-all-stars-honorable-mentions/

Franklin Federated Church to Host Franklin Interfaith Council Thanksgiving Service Sunday, November 22, 2015 – 7 pm

People of faith in the Franklin community have a long-standing tradition of gathering annually for an Interfaith Thanksgiving worship service. Sponsored by the Franklin Interfaith Council, this year’s Thanksgiving Service will be held on Sunday evening, November 22 at 7 pm at Franklin Federated Church. 
Thanksgiving Service and Prayer
Thanksgiving Service and Prayer
The Interfaith Thanksgiving service is a shared celebration and remembrance for the blessings in our lives for which we are grateful. The service is a wonderful occasion for people of various faith backgrounds to come together as an interfaith community to give thanks for the goodness in our lives and express our gratitude for God’s blessings. 
The community gathers in worship to share some readings, reflections and prayers from Franklin’s clergy leaders and to enjoy special musical offerings by the Franklin Interfaith Choir. The service opens our eyes to the various faith communities within Franklin and reminds us of the religious freedom we enjoy in America. 
The event also provides the opportunity to support Franklin’s Fuel Assistance program administered by the Interfaith Council. A free-will offering will be received to fund this important resource to help Franklin families pay their heating bills during the winter months. 
As we express our thanks we also remember those within our community who are financially stressed and need a helping hand. Checks may be made payable to the Franklin Interfaith Council. Your generosity is encouraged! 
Join with your fellow Franklinites of faith on Sunday evening, November 22nd to give thanks with a grateful heart. Amen.

Downtown Project Update #18 - traffic flow map for 2016

The Downtown Project Update #18. Page 2 shows the detail on the traffic flow that will change some time in 2016.  When will the date/time for the switch from one-way to 2-way traffic be? Stay tuned. No one knows today.

There are detail sections for the corner of Emmons and West Central as well as at the railroad bridge (triangle).

patched spot on West Central St
patched spot on West Central St

Note: when traveling east to get to Main St from West Central, you'll need to turn at Emmons. Once you get to the bridge, there is no left turn to Main St.




Senator Spilka Honored for Juvenile Justice Leadership

Senator Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland) received the 2015 Leadership Award from Citizens for Juvenile Justice at the organization’s annual Leadership Celebration last week, in recognition of her work to reform the juvenile justice system, invest in children and support communities in Massachusetts.

“If we want to truly reform the juvenile justice system, we need to invest in our children,” said Senator Spilka. “I am honored to work with such a caring, compassionate community of juvenile justice reform advocates in Massachusetts. I look forward to continuing the work to create a society where more children have opportunities to learn and succeed.”

Scott Harshbarger, former Massachusetts Attorney General and Senior Counsel at Proskauer Rose LLC; Senator Karen Spilka; Naoka Carey, Executive Director, Citizens for Juvenile Justice
Scott Harshbarger, former Massachusetts Attorney General and Senior Counsel at Proskauer Rose LLC; Senator Karen Spilka; Naoka Carey, Executive Director, Citizens for Juvenile Justice

“Senator Spilka is an exceptional leader on behalf of young people in the Commonwealth,” said Naoka Carey, Executive Director of Citizens for Juvenile Justice. “As a result of her work, thousands of children and families are benefiting from a more effective, more community-based system of services. Seventeen year olds who once faced time in adult jails are now receiving far more appropriate services in our juvenile justice system. She is as compassionate as she is tenacious.”

Scott Harshbarger, former Massachusetts Attorney General and Senior Counsel at Proskauer Rose LLC, and a group of young people from the Teens Leading The Way advocacy coalition presented the award to Senator Spilka. Senator Spilka is working closely with Teens Leading the Way on legislation related to the expungement of juvenile criminal records, to give young people a chance to learn from their mistakes and the clean slate they need to pursue jobs, higher education and stable, productive lives as adults.

 Scott Harshbarger, former Massachusetts Attorney General and Senior Counsel at Proskauer Rose LLC; Senator Karen Spilka; Teens Leading the Way youth
Scott Harshbarger, former Massachusetts Attorney General and Senior Counsel at Proskauer Rose LLC; Senator Karen Spilka; Teens Leading the Way youth
Senator Spilka worked for seven years on a comprehensive overhaul of the Child in Need of Services (CHINS) system, which handles children who consistently get in trouble at home or at school, including runaways and students who are habitually truant. In 2012, the Legislature began the process of establishing a statewide network of community-based Family Resource Centers, which provide mental health, substance abuse and family counseling services to children and families outside of the court system.

In 2013, the Legislature passed legislation to raise the age of juvenile jurisdiction by one year, bringing 17-year-olds into the juvenile justice system. Raising the age of juvenile jurisdiction acknowledges that teenagers have unique developmental needs and gives young people the chance to receive the support services they need to get back on track and succeed in the future.

In the 2015-2016 legislative session, Senator Spilka is working with juvenile justice reform advocates on an omnibus bill to address a wide array of reforms, including expungement.

In the News: 'Tis the season, public records, OPEB liability explained

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin
"The Franklin Performing Arts Company will host a special performance of the original holiday musical “’Tis the Season!” for community youth, family and social services organizations at 3 p.m. Dec. 19 at the Franklin High School auditorium, 118 Oak St. 
FPAC will distribute complimentary tickets for the performance through community organizations including the Hockomock Area YMCA, local Best Buddies chapters and the Franklin Food Pantry."

Read the full article online here (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20151118/NEWS/151115487/1994/NEWS



"Ahead of the unanimous passage of what they said was the first public records overhaul in more than four decades on Wednesday, a key House lawmaker said the measure would increase transparency without adding an unfunded mandate on cities and towns. 
"As a former local official and someone who pays a lot of attention to municipal government, I don't view anything in this bill as an unfunded mandate," House Ways and Means Committee Vice Chairman Stephen Kulik said. He said, "Any public agency, including cities and towns, have responsibilities inherent to provide public access to the documents of what they do."

Read the full article online here (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20151118/NEWS/151115463/1994/NEWS



"The Town Council was told at its meeting Wednesday that Franklin is in relatively good shape in terms of other post-employment benefits (OPEB), but should continue to ramp up its contributions. 
Consultant Dan Sherman gave a presentation to the council on the concept."

Read the full article online here (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20151118/NEWS/151115448/1994/NEWS

26th Annual Gourmet Guys - Attleboro Elks Lodge - Nov 20th

An evening of great food, family and friends! An Attleboro institution, Gourmet Guys features a buffet-style feast prepared by our hometown heroes. All proceeds benefit New Hope, a non-profit working to end domestic and sexual violence in our communities.

New Hope
New Hope

Event Details:


  • Tickets: $30 adults; $20 kids/seniors
  • Doors open: 6:30 p.m.
  • Dinner served: 7:00 p.m.
  • Family-Friendly environment
  • Raffles and Silent Auctions
  • Cash Bar

26th Annual Gourmet Guys - Attleboro Elks Lodge - Nov 20th
26th Annual Gourmet Guys - Attleboro Elks Lodge - Nov 20th

In the News: Jamie Barrett performs, RMV adds online services

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin

The Black Box Children’s Series kicks off its second season this Saturday, Nov. 21, featuring Franklin singer-songwriter, guitarist and music teacher Jamie Barrett. 
Back by popular demand with an engaging mix of family-favorite songs, Barrett presents a fun and interactive program for audiences of all ages, beginning at 2 p.m.

Read the full article online here (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20151118/NEWS/151116448/1994/NEWS



The Registry of Motor Vehicles announced Wednesday it will now allow many drivers to pay their road test and license fees online rather than in line. 
Registry officials said the prepay function has the potential to eliminated 50,000 trips a year to its offices. 
Customers who have a regular Class D permit or a motorcycle Class M permit will be eligible to visit massrmv.com before completing a road test and avoid the lines altogether.

Read the full article online here (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20151118/NEWS/151115782/1994/NEWS

Franklin Fracked Gas Pipeline Petition link


Dear Fellow Franklinites, 
I urge you to sign this online petition to oppose a fracked gas pipeline proposed to run through Franklin. 
The petition explains the reasons for our opposition.

proposed route for fracked gas pipeline
proposed route for fracked gas pipeline


https://www.change.org/p/jeffrey-roy-karen-spilka-richard-ross-stop-the-spectra-energy-pipeline-from-going-through-franklin-ma-we-don-t-need-or-want-it?recruiter=424738166&utm_source=share_for_starters&utm_medium=copyLink



Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Live reporting: Legislation for Action


J. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
none


K. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION

  • Resolution 15-36R (Revised) Salary Schedule Full-Time Elected Officials

adjustment to salary to cover for the extension of Debbie Pellegri in her role until the recall completes

motion to approve, seconded, 7-0  via roll


  • Resolution 15-71- Acceptance of Deed of Land Off Daniels Street (Parcels B and C in Tanglewood Estates Subdivision) for Conservation Purposes


the parcels had been acquired through negotiation with the developer

motion to approve, seconded, 7-0  via roll


  • Resolution 15-73 -Acceptance of Easement on Property at O Greystone Road

motion to amend to write in 'Franklin' as this word was left out
motion to approve, seconded, 7-0  via roll on the amendment 

motion to approve, seconded, 7-0  via roll on the amended motion



  • Resolution 15-74 -Adoption of Town Council Procedures Manual

procedures manual is comprised of three documents
pretty much the same doc as the last several years, only amended to include the remote participation

motion to approve, seconded, 7-0  via roll


L. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT

hoping to get Oak St to be paved before the weather turns

Downtown wrapping up, a map being posted on the circulation downtown

winter is coming, be careful with the first snow fall

Tree lighting Sunday the 29th, 4:00 PM

proposed council schedule out for Councilors for review

Tax hearing TUesday, Dec 8th

Jan 6th meeting on the pipeline

Jan 12th council workshop

Jan 20th Pond St meeting with those interested


M. OLD BUSINESS
insurance audit? have you heard from him?

Wachusett St, parking lot getting widened
it will be completed before the next meeting

still exploring an environmental lawyer to help with the power plant


N. NEW BUSINESS
group called STOP, coming to speak to provide info on alchohol


O. COUNCIL COMMENTS
SAFE Coalition meeting Dec 8th

Condolences to the McDonald family for their recent loss
looking to Council for helping to get the drug dealers

request to bring the drug dog to a future meeting

Mercer - condolences to McDonalds, he was a three sport athlete


motion to adjourn, 7-0 via roll