Mass Parks For All: DCR Stewardship Council Stakeholders Committee @ Monday, Aug 12, 2024 6:30 PM (ET)

Register for Monday's Committee meeting, and thank your elected officials for supporting our state parks

Mass Parks For All August 2024 Dear Parks Supporter,   We have two opportunities for you to support state parks!   The first is on Monday, August 12, when the Department of Conservation and Recreation Stewardship Council's Stakeholders Committee will hold its second listening session for park users, park friends groups and other stakeholders via Zoom from 6:30-8 p.m. ET.   Established by the Massachusetts Legislature in 2003, the Stewardship Council is an independent body consisting of 13 members appointed by the Governor that assists and oversees DCR. The Council meets monthly to discuss issues pertaining to state parks, to hear presentations from DCR staff and outside partner organizations, and to receive public comments.   Monday's session will focus on what participants see as the greatest improvement at DCR, and what they see as the greatest operational need at DCR. The Council will use this feedback to inform its policy and other decisions as it seeks to help guide DCR as the agency rebuilds our parks.   You should register ahead of time here, and if you wish to speak during the session, please contact Matthew Perry at matthew.s.perry1@mass.gov. Matthew will organize and call upon speakers during the meeting. Please note that the meeting will be recorded.   You can view the first Stakeholders Committee listening session, held on February 26, 2024, on YouTube here.   The second opportunity is available now: click here to send a thank you message to your state legislators!   Mass Parks for All (MPA) recently reported on the FY2025 budget signed into law by the Healey-Driscoll Administration on July 29. The budget gives DCR a combined $8.4 million increase for day-to-day operations and seasonal employees, who staff DCR facilities during peak use periods. MPA feels this budget, especially in light of ongoing fluctuations in state tax revenues, will allow the agency to continue the progress it made during the last two budget cycles.   Together, we sought substantial budget increases for DCR for fiscal years 2024 and 2025, and the Legislature and the Administration, recognizing our parks are essential, delivered. Over that two-year period, DCR's operations budget has increased by 29 percent, to $110.00 million, while the seasonal employee account went up by 18 percent, to $28.5 million. During the same period, the overall state budget increased by 9.7 percent, to $57.8 billion.   Please join us in thanking your elected state officials for recognizing the value DCR brings to our lives and for having the agency's back, even during fiscally unstable times.   Yours in conservation,   Doug Pizzi Executive Director Mass Parks for All (MPA) is a statewide non-partisan, non-profit 501(C)(3) organization with a 21st-century vision for protecting, renewing, expanding, and connecting our public lands. This newsletter is supported by the community that funds this work. Donate to support our work → Our mailing address is: Mass Parks For All P.O. Box 300343 Jamaica Plain, MA 02130 United States

Student Public Art Installation scheduled for June 11 at 5 PM

Student Public Art

 

 

"Please come out to welcome the student public art installation. They all have spent months creating, cutting and painting the fish.

We would love your support to thank them for beautifying our town and learning the value of art in public spaces."

 

Call for art at the Franklin Sculpture Park

"Calling all artists! 

Submit your sculpture proposals by June 1st for a chance to be part of this immersive outdoor exhibition. Whether you work with metal, stone, wood, or innovative materials, we want to see your vision come to life in our park.

Don’t miss this chance to share your art with the community! 

Link in bio for submission detailsLink in bio for submission details. #CallForArtists #SculpturePark #OutdoorArt #ArtOpportunity #DeadlineJune1

To submit proposal -> https://franklinma.portal.opengov.com/categories/1080/record-types/6632

Call for art at the Franklin Sculpture Park

Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/p/C6_SQtJLxIB/

New Project from Poet Laureate Ada Limón - poetry as public art in 7 national parks

U.S. Poet Laureate Ada Limón to Publish Anthology, Bring Poetry to National Parks as part of Signature Project, “You Are Here”

"Ada Limón's signature project as the nation's 24th Poet Laureate Consultant in Poetry, "You Are Here," will feature two major new initiatives: an anthology of commissioned nature poems and poetry installed as public art in seven national parks.

"I want to champion the ways reading and writing poetry can situate us in the natural world," Limón said. "Never has it been more urgent to feel a sense of reciprocity with our environment, and poetry's alchemical mix of attention, silence, and rhythm gives us a reciprocal way of experiencing nature — of communing with the natural world through breath and presence."

Participating national parks are:

• Cape Cod National Seashore (Massachusetts)
• Cuyahoga Valley National Park (Ohio)
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park (North Carolina and Tennessee)
• Everglades National Park (Florida)
• Mount Rainier National Park (Washington)
• Redwood National and State Parks (California)
• Saguaro National Park (Arizona) 

Find out more about the project -> https://newsroom.loc.gov/news/u.s.-poet-laureate-ada-lim-n-to-publish-anthology--bring-poetry-to-national-parks-as-part-of-signatu/s/daf3ca32-cdff-49e0-9109-c2d9ba66c3b1

poetry as public art in 7 national parks

Good Deeds: Norfolk County Destination Locations

By William P. O'Donnell, Norfolk County Register of Deeds

 

Good Deeds: Norfolk County Destination Locations

We are in the dog days of summer, and the children, if you have them, are out of school. Like many people around this time of year, you may be looking for something to beat the summer doldrums. I have good news for you: we live in an area that is filled with historic places, wonderful views, and interesting landmarks. There are many activities that can provide entertainment, pleasure, and enjoyment. There are numerous opportunities right here in Norfolk County to enjoy while creating lasting memories with your family and friends.

As a parent and native of Norfolk County, I know how difficult it can be to keep family and friends active and engaged while not breaking the bank. So, I thought this list of budget-friendly activities might be helpful for you and your family if you are out and about the 28 communities that make up Norfolk County.

There is nothing like finding a picturesque beach to beat the summer heat, and some of these locations may do just that for you.

Ames Long Pond

1000 Highland Street, Stoughton, MA

Visit website for details: https://stoughtonma.myrec.com/info/facilities/details.aspx?facilityid=14696

Houghton's Pond Recreation Area

840 Hillside Street, Milton, MA

Visit website for details: https://www.mass.gov/locations/houghtons-pond-recreation-area

Sweatt Beach

5 Woolford Road, Wrentham, MA

Visit website for details: https://wrenthamma.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=29842

Looking to catch the big one? These locations offer a serene setting for fishing, whether you are an experienced angler or just looking for a peaceful escape with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Even if you don't have any luck with the fish, you can still take a nice stroll along the water.

Fuller Brook Park

15 Maugus Avenue, Wellesley Hills, MA

Lyman Pond

200 Nahatan Street, Westwood, MA

If fishing is not for you, but you still want to take in the scenic views of Norfolk County while burning a few calories, these locations offer some good trails that will keep you motivated. Whether you prefer a leisurely walk or a challenging hike, there are a variety of locations where you can enjoy the natural beauty of Norfolk County and stay active.

Adams Farm

999 North Street, Walpole, MA

Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary

293 Moose Hill Parkway, Sharon, MA

Open Wednesday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Oak Grove Park

444 Exchange Street, Millis, MA

Stony Brook Wildlife Sanctuary

108 North Street, Norfolk, MA

Open Saturdays and Sundays 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Norfolk County has a rich history, and to our benefit, many communities have made the investment to preserve these buildings. These preserved buildings offer a unique glimpse into the past and provide a fascinating educational experience for visitors. 

Angle Tree Stone

On the border of North Attleboro and Plainville

accessed on the North Attleboro side at 657 High Street, North Attleboro, MA

Blanchard's Colonial Tavern

98 North Main Street, Avon, MA

Visit website for details: http://www.blanchardstavern.com

Dwight-Derby House

7 Frairy Street, Medfield, MA

Visit website for details: https://www.dwightderbyhouse.org

Fairbanks House

511 East Street, Dedham, MA

Visit website for details: https://fairbankshouse.org

Frederick Law Olmsted Historical Site

99 Warren Street, Brookline, MA

Visit website for details: https://www.nps.gov/frla/planyourvisit/basicinfo.htm

Holbrook Historic District

40 Union Street, Holbrook, MA

Jonathan Belcher House

360 North Main Street, Randolph, MA

Medway Historic District

2 Milford Street, Medway, MA

Visit website for details: http://medwayhistoricalsociety.org/hisdists.htm

The F. Holland Day House

93 Day Street, Norwood, MA

Guided tour and ice cream social August 13: 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Visit website for details: https://norwoodhistoricalsociety.org/event/day-house-guided-childrens-tour-ice-cream-social-august-13-2023

Sawin Memorial Building

80 Dedham Street, Dover, MA

Visit website for details: http://doverhistoricalsociety.org/sawin.html

Thayer House

786 Washington Street, Braintree, MA

Visit website for details: https://braintreema.gov/408/Sylvanus-Thayer-Birthplace

Weymouth Central Square Historic District

200 Middle Street, East Weymouth, MA

If you are looking for a museum, Norfolk County offers a variety of options to choose from that showcase the county's history through a variety of exhibits and displays. These museums provide a unique opportunity to delve into the rich heritage and culture of Norfolk County.

Ernest A. Taft Jr. Historical Museum

3 Common Street, Bellingham, MA

Open August 9th from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Visit website for details: https://www.bellinghamma.org/historical-commission

Franklin Historical Museum

80 West Central Street, Franklin, MA

Open Saturday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Visit website for details: https://www.franklinmuseum1778.com

Maritime Museum

106 South Main Street, Cohasset, MA

Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Visit website for details: https://www.cohassethistoricalsociety.org/maritime-museum

Memorial Hall

4 School Street, Foxborough (Foxboro), MA

Wednesday, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Visit website for details: http://www.foxboroughhc.org

Needham History Center and Museum

1147 Central Avenue, Needham, MA

Monday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and Wednesday through Thursday, 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Visit website for details: https://needhamhistory.org

Paul Revere Heritage Site

96 Revere Street, Canton, MA

Visit website for details: https://paulreveremuseum.org

U.S.S. Salem

549 South Street, Pier 3, Quincy, MA

Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Visit website for details: https://www.uss-salem.org

I hope you find this list useful and that you take advantage of some of the opportunities that Norfolk County offers as well as make some enduring memories with friends and family. Whether you are interested in outdoor activities like hiking or prefer indoor pursuits such as visiting museums or trying out new hobbies, the communities of Norfolk County have something for everyone. So, go ahead and explore all the exciting options available to you this summer! 

Jefferson Elementary Students ‘Tackle’ Public Art with New "Traveling School of Fish” Installation at the Franklin Sculpture Park.

On June 7, 2023, Jefferson students, family, staff and the greater Franklin community gathered for a rededication ceremony at the Franklin Sculpture Park. The park first opened in 2014, the installation "The School of Fish", previously donated by the (now closed) Franklin Art Center, had appeared weathered due to time. 

Seeing an opportunity to refresh the installation and involve the community, local artist and Jefferson parent, Amy Adams partnered with Franklin Public Schools Art Director, Adam Gooder, Jefferson Art Teacher Caroline Whelan, Jefferson Principal Stefani Wasik and Town Administrator Jamie Hellen to re-imagine the installation.

Adams worked to clear and prepare each individual fish, Jefferson staff then worked with students to create the new art. The refreshed installation, retitled "Traveling School of Fish", will be updated yearly by new students within the district. During the dedication, Adams spoke with the students and encouraged "all of the little artists here to keep shining your lights. They are beautiful and bright."

This new initiative aims to nurture the artistic talents of our youth, while showcasing their work with the greater Franklin community through public art. FPS Art Director Gooder notes, "Any time students of any age get a chance to show their work publicly, it motivates them to do their best. Art is meant to be seen; this initiative gives students an opportunity to see how people react and how their artistic voice can make a positive impact on others." 

The "Traveling School of Fish" installation is available to the public at the Franklin Sculpture Park on Panther Way in Franklin, MA next to the Franklin Police Station.

Shared from -> https://www.franklinps.net/district/news/jefferson-elementary-students-%E2%80%98tackle%E2%80%99-public-art-new-%E2%80%98traveling-school-fish%E2%80%9D

Traveling School of Fish 1

Traveling School of Fish 2

You are invited to the Sculpture Park Rededication - Traveling School of Fish - June 7 at 5 PM

You're invited to join us on the evening of Wednesday, June 7th, 2023 at 5 PM at the Franklin Sculpture Park (rain date Thursday, June 8th at 5pm). For a rededication ceremony for the Franklin Art Center installation "School of Fish". 

The public art was installed in 2014 and will now receive a refresh with the help of the Franklin Public Schools Art Director Adam Gooder, Art Teacher Caroline Whelan, Jefferson Principal Stefani Wasik and local artist Amy Adams.

The refreshed installation will be updated yearly by new students and the work will be retitled "Traveling School of Fish".

Join Jefferson students, families, faculty and more for a community celebration of art and engagement.

Event Date: Wednesday, June 7, 2023 - 5:00 PM

Shared from ->   https://www.facebook.com/groups/460474210785489/permalink/2551355905030632/?mibextid=Nif5oz

photo from 2015 of the "Art School of Fish"

Town of Franklin - School Recreation Facilities and Parks (ADA Compliance Included) - 2023 OSRP Update

Happy Tuesday All,

It's that time again - another OSRP focus group meeting! 

As a recap, the FCC held a meeting about "Municipal Recreation Facilities and Parks (ADA Compliance Included)" on January 26. In case you missed it, the recording of this meeting can be found here. Have ideas and suggestions for the Town about municipal recreation facilities and parks? All feedback, comments, and suggestions can be submitted through this Google Form at any point throughout the OSRP process; so it's definitely encouraged to utilize this platform to communicate your thoughts. Responses are routinely checked and we have been connecting with many residents about their feedback. We'd love to connect with you, too!

February 9 Focus Group 

The next OSRP focus group meeting (Topic: School Recreation Facilities and Parks (ADA Compliance Included) is this upcoming Thursday, February 9 from 6-7pm in Council Chambers at Town Hall. Can't attend this Thursday? Not a problem! A separate OSRP Office Hour meeting is available this Friday, February 10 from 10-11a in Room 326A at Town Hall. You are encouraged to attend either (or both!) meetings, ask questions, and provide feedback on your thoughts and ideas about School Recreation Facilities and Parks (ADA Compliance Included). Don't forget to sign the Communitree poster when participating at Town Hall, too! We'd love to fill every leaf on this tree with the name of your group or organization.

A recording of the meetings will be posted next week for additional viewing on the OSRP webpage. In an effort to promote engagement, all focus group meetings can be accessed remotely on Franklin TV and via Zoom. Please visit the Conservation webpage for the focus group meeting agendas and updated Zoom login information.

Community Survey

Be on the lookout for the OSRP survey postcard (example shown below) available next Monday, February 13 on all digital platforms, at various locations around Town, and in your email inbox. The survey will be available for two months or until mid-April. Once the survey is launched, please feel free to share with your organization and surrounding community. Participation in this survey will help Town staff create the vision for the OSRP that is reflective of resident priorities. In other words, "help us, help you" create the Franklin you want to see.

Public Hearing 1

Our first OSRP public hearing is scheduled for February 21, 2023 from 6-8 pm at the Franklin Senior Center, Multi-Purpose Room. Attendees will learn more about the OSRP and review progress from the previous 2016 OSRP. We've accomplished a lot together and are excited to celebrate the progress with you. 

Other Ways to Get Involved

Don't have time to attend a focus group or office hour meeting? Not a problem! You and your organization are encouraged to still provide feedback regarding the 2023 OSRP update at any time throughout the OSRP process. Here's how...

• Visit the OSRP webpage to stay current
• Sign up for Conservation news alerts to stay current
• Add the 2023 OSRP Update Calendar to your digital calendar to stay current on events
• Provide ideas and feedback for the 2023 OSRP by Google Form or email
• Schedule a 2023 OSRP presentation for your group or organization
• Share this email with other groups such as sibling Scout Troops, Recreation clubs, your mountain bike club, etc!

Additionally, all public engagement opportunities can be found on the OSRP webpage here and are available in person, via Zoom, and on Franklin TV. There are plenty of opportunities to get involved, so please don't hesitate to connect!

The next focus group meeting is on Schmidt's Farm on February 23. We know this is a big ticket item for the community so start brainstorming ideas now. In the meantime, feel free to utilize this OSRP map to become familiar with Schmidt's Farm digitally.

"four recommendations critical to rebuilding a state park system that meets our collective, essential needs"

"On October 14, Massachusetts Conservation Voters convened a state virtual parks summit attended by more than 20 environmental organizations from across the Commonwealth. This open letter, signed by more than 50 organizations, is the result.

MASSACHUSETTS STATE PARKS are in crisis. More than a decade of funding and staffing cuts have eviscerated the Department of Conservation and Recreation’s (DCR) ability to meet its mission “to protect, promote, and enhance our Commonwealth of natural, cultural, and recreational resources for the well-being of all,” while digging a $1 billion deferred maintenance hole.

The December 2021 Legislative Special Commission report on DCR (page 51) found that Massachusetts, one of the wealthiest states in the nation,  ranks last in per capita spending on state and municipal parks.

State park visitors rarely encounter rangers, and too often find shuttered facilities, crumbling infrastructure, and dirty bathrooms. Park rules enforcement to ensure visitor safety and resource protection is virtually non-existent. Also compromised is our parkland’s ability to support our physical and mental well-being, promote environmental justice, mitigate flooding and urban heat islands, foster climate resilience, and harbor significant natural resources and biodiversity."

Continue reading the article online at CommonWealth Magazine ->

https://commonwealthmagazine.org/opinion/getting-our-state-parks-back-on-track/ 

Download a copy of the report reference to read the full story

https://www.mass.gov/doc/umdi-dcr-special-commission-report/download

A pond at DCR-run Nickerson State Park in Brewster

Dedication plaque ceremony at Dog Park - Aug 6

Furry Friends of the Franklin Dog Park Volunteer Committee are doing  a dedication plaque in honor of Andrew Bissanti and his family for their generous gift of the gazebo at the dog park on Saturday, August 6 at 11:00 AM. 

Rain date is Sunday August 7 at 11:00 AM

All are welcome to attend.

                 Gennarino D'Onofrio
                          President

Dacey Community Field
700 Lincoln Street
Franklin, MA

Dedication plaque ceremony at Dog Park - Aug 6

Franklin Dog Park: The gazebo is finished

Via Furry Friends of The Franklin Dog Park Volunteer Committee: 

"Franklin dog park gazebo is completed. Franklin dog park is open. Thank you for your patience."

Shared from Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/groups/1551606135109407/permalink/3046304538972885/

Franklin Dog Park: The gazebo is finished

NATURE: A Walking Play -> Sep 24 - Oct 3

"NATURE: A Walking Play is coming to Bird Park! Don’t miss this immersive and family-friendly performance that highlights the natural world and Emerson & Thoreau’s love for nature.  

Walk along with the actors as the play’s scenes unfold throughout beautiful Bird Park.  

Performances at the park run from September 24-October 3. Please visit https://thetrustees.org/program/nature-play/ to order tickets. 

Performances also take place at Fruitlands Museum in Harvard and Appleton Farms in Ipswich."

Shared from Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/187390667963129/posts/4516651385037014/

NATURE: A Walking Play  -> Sep 24 - Oct 3

Franklin Dog Park Event for Aug 5 rescheduled for Aug 11

The event schedule for Thursday August 5 at 2:30 at the Franklin Dog Park has been canceled. 

It has been rescheduled for Wednesday August 11 at 2:30 PM.  Heather Swails-McCarron, Senior Multimedia Journalist for the Country Gazette will be there to talk to pet owners and take pictures of your pet for the Gazette.

Franklin Dog Park Event for Aug 5 rescheduled for Aug 11

Franklin Dog Park needs your financial support

The Franklin Dog Park needs your help.  Last year, due to COVID, both major fund raising venues for the park were cancelled.  As a member of the Franklin Downtown Partnership we relied on the generosity of those who stopped by our booth during both the Strawberry Stroll and Harvest Festivals to enroll in our raffle, make a token donation for a handmade doggie bandana and enjoy the freebie treats.  Many attendees first learned of the dog park during their visit to our booth.

The Furry Friends purchases all the supplies for the park (doggie waste bags, hand sanitizer, toys).  Several years ago we purchased two benches and this year we had helpful signs made to display around the park.  On the average we spend annually up to $1,000.00 and sometimes more.  We do not receive any financial assistance from the Town of Franklin although, the DPW is a wonderful supporter doing all necessary repairs at the park.  

The Franklin Dog Park is the “people’s park.” As such every effort is made to keep it clean and safe for the dogs and their owners – many of whom travel from surrounding towns.  Please consider making a donation to help us cover costs.

The Furry Friends has a checking account at the Dean Bank in downtown Franklin.  Your donation will go directly into that account.  We are a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization.  Your contribution is tax deductible to the extent provided by law. 

Please make your check out to: Furry Friends of Franklin, Inc.  Either stop by Dean Bank or mail your check to Dean Bank, 21 Main Street, Franklin, MA 02038.  

Submitted by Furry Friends of the Franklin Dog Park  https://www.facebook.com/FranklinDogPark

Franklin Dog Park needs your financial support