Franklin Cultural Council Seeks Funding Proposals

The FCC's upcoming grant cycle runs September 1 - October 15

View this email in your browser Grant Applications Accepted September 1 - October 15 The Franklin Cultural Council (FCC) has set an October 15 deadline for organizations, schools, and individuals to apply for grants that support cultural activities in the community. This funding encourages individuals, groups and not-for-profit organizations to bring to the community unique programming that centers around the arts, humanities, history or interpretive sciences for children, adults or intergenerational groups. Previously funded projects include: programs/field trips for five of Franklin's schools (public and charter), Franklin Downtown Partnership Strawberry Stroll, LiveArts, Franklin Performing Arts Company Whatever Theatre Festival, Southeastern MA Community Concert Band, and the Franklin Art Association, to name a few. These grants can support a variety of artistic projects and activities in Franklin, including exhibitions, festivals, field trips, short-term artist residencies or workshops, lectures, and performances in schools, the library, the senior center, or for the community at large. While the focus of the proposals should remain similar to past years — community-oriented arts, humanities, and science programs — this year the FCC is encouraging new applicants to apply. All grant applications are due by Tuesday, October 15. Proposals that are past the deadline will not be considered. Log on to https://www.mass-culture.org/Franklin for grant guidelines and to apply. Copyright © 2019 Franklin Cultural Council, All rights reserved. Our mailing address is: Franklin Cultural Council 355 East Central Street Franklin, Ma 02038

Hockomock Football: Players to Watch on Defense - Wertz, FHS

HockomockSports.com Staff has published their preview of the "Hockomock Football: Players to Watch on Defense"

Evan Wertz, Senior – Franklin

"Franklin senior linebacker Evan Wertz has been a dominant presence in the heart of the Panthers defense, having already set program records by racking up huge tackle totals every week. Wertz had 122 tackles in 11 games last season (a remarkable 11 per game), including 45 solo stops and 10 tackles for loss.

He can also drop into coverage, recording three pass breakups and an interception. Just like Mansfield’s Vinnie Holmes, wherever the ball goes Wertz is there, ranging from sideline to sideline and covering as much ground as any linebacker in the Hock.

The Panthers nearly stunned powerhouse Xaverian in the playoffs last season and that has ramped up the momentum and expectations coming into this year. With Wertz leading the defense, Franklin will hope that they can push for the Kelley-Rex title and another long tournament run."

Read the full listing online at HockomockSports.com
https://hockomocksports.com/hockomock-football-players-to-watch-on-defense-2019/ 

Evan Wertz (25) celebrates a fumble on Milford’s opening possession of the game in 2018. (Josh Perry/HockomockSports.com)

 

HockomockSports.com reports "Fallon-Comeau Takes Charge of King Philip Softball"

Ryan Lanigan, founder and Editor-in-Chief of HockomockSports.com, writes about the softball coaching change happening at King Philip (and Franklin).

"Kate Fallon-Comeau is trading in her Franklin blue for the King Philip green and gold.

Fallon-Comeau, the Panthers’ softball head coach for the past nine seasons, was officially hired in the same capacity for the Warriors this week. King Philip was one of the most successful programs over the past decade, winning state championships in 2010, 2011, and 2016.

“It wasn’t an easy decision, but there was an opportunity and I went for it,” Fallon-Comeau said. “I loved every minute of my time at Franklin but I’m really excited to work with the girls at King Philip. There is a great feeder program in place, they have solid softball players every year. Like Franklin, they have a community that is passionate about softball. It just seemed like a good fit and the timing was right.”

Fallon-Comeau, the 2019 HockomockSports.com Coach of the Year, is plenty familiar with the Hockomock League. She was a star pitcher as a member of the Class of 2001 at Mansfield High. After a successful career as a catcher at Curry College, she took over the reins of the Panthers’ program in 2011. Under her guidance, Franklin went 112-86 and made the state tournament in all but two seasons. In the two seasons the Panthers didn’t make it, they had 10 and nine wins, respectively."

Continue reading the article online at HockomockSports.com
https://hockomocksports.com/fallon-comeau-takes-charge-of-king-philip-softball/

Kate Fallon-Comeau was hired as the new King Philip softball coach after nine seasons with Franklin. (Ryan Lanigan/HockomockSports.com)

MBTA: Commuter Rail notice for Monday - Labor Day

All Commuter Rail lines will operate on a regular Sunday schedule on Labor Day, Monday September 2.


Please note that there is no Sunday service for the Stoughton and Needham lines.

Last Updated: Aug 29 2019 01:29 PM 


Reminder: Weekends, Sept 7- Nov 24, Franklin Train service is replaced by free buses between Forge Park/495 and Readville for a Fairmount Line connection while PTC is installed. There will be no service at Back Bay, Ruggles, Endicott, Islington and Norwood Depot. 

https://mbta.com/schedules/CR-Franklin/timetable

MBTA: Commuter Rail notice for Monday - Labor Day

Town of Franklin EEE Update - now at Moderate

Town of Franklin EEE Update

The Town of Franklin is currently at a MODERATE risk threat from the State of Massachusetts Department of Public Health. The following recommendations are being made to reduce potential exposure:

1.) Wear mosquito repellent Products with 30% DEET, Permethrin, Picardin or oil of lemon eucalyptus are the most effective

2.) Be aware of peak mosquito hours. Mosquitoes are most active from dusk to dawn

3.) Drain standing water on your property Mosquitoes lay eggs in standing or stagnant water

4.) Wear long sleeves and long pants Covering skin will limit potential exposure

The Norfolk County Mosquito Control is a great resource. Contact them to schedule spraying on your property. http://www.norfolkcountymosquito.org/

Please click for the EEE fact sheet and more helpful links.
http://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/uploads/eee_update_8_27_19_2_0.pdf
Contact the Board of Health with any additional questions.

 

Town of Franklin EEE Update - now at Moderate

Alston and Asmath "Bowl for a Goal"

Carly Alston and Farley Asmath from Franklin, MA joined the New England Revolution at their fifth annual Bowl for a Goal presented by Arbella Insurance on Wednesday, August 21 at Splitsville Luxury Lanes at Patriot Place to support Special Olympics Massachusetts. Carly and Farley spent the evening bowling and spending time with Revs Players and their fellow Special Olympic teammates.

Carly Alston at "Bowl for a Goal"

The players and coaching staff joined Special Olympics MA athletes and Revs supporters on the lanes for bowling, and a full night of entertainment, trivia, photos and autographs. All profits from the evening, including ticket sales as well as the evening’s silent auction and raffle, benefited Special Olympics Massachusetts.

Farley Asmath at "Bowl for a Goal"

All profits from the evening, including ticket sales as well as the evening’s silent auction and raffle, benefited Special Olympics Massachusetts. In the five years of the event they have raised over $300,000 through Bowl for a Goal. The relationship with the organization extends well beyond the annual fundraising event. The two organizations have once again teamed up for a full summer of events aimed to promote an environment of inclusivity and friendly competition through the power of sports.

For more information about the New England Revolution and “Bowl for a Goal” please visit www.revolutionsoccer.net/community/bowl-for-a-goal

Franklin Residents: Job Opportunities - Public Health Director, Custorian, DPW, Fire Dept

Job Opportunities

To apply for a vacant position, please submit a resume and cover letter to apply@franklinma.gov.  Please put the job title in the subject line of your email.  

• Public Health Director 

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/uploads/healthdirector-jobposting-august282019.pdf

• Full Time Custodian

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/uploads/jr-custodian-posting-august282019.pdf

• Heavy Motor Equipment Operator - Department of Public Works

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/uploads/hmeo-external-posting-march282019.pdf 

• Part-Time Custodian 

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/uploads/part-time.custodian-posting-october2018_0.pdf

• Firefighter/Paramedics - The Town of Franklin's Fire Department is in the Massachusetts Civil Service system. 
  • If you are currently a Firefighter/Paramedic in a Civil Service community and are interested in working for Franklin, send a resume and cover letter to apply@franklinma.gov. 
  • Please note: new hires must have and maintain a paramedic certification and complete an Associate's Degree within 5 years of the date they are hired.   

If you do not have a resume, you may send a completed Application for Employment instead
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/uploads/application_for_employment_-_town_of_franklin.pdf

To receive notifications of all job opportunities in the Town of Franklin, subscribe here  https://www.franklinma.gov/subscribe

Franklin Residents: Job Opportunities - Public Health Director, Custorian, DPW, Fire Dept

Hockomock Football: Players to Watch on Offense - Nally, FHS

HockomockSports.com Staff has published their preview of the "Hockomock Football: Players to Watch on Offense"

Jack Nally, Senior – Franklin

"Franklin senior Jack Nally showcased numerous talents last year to help the Panthers get to the Div. 1 South semifinal, and nearly pull off an upset of powerhouse Xaverian. He finished with 922 total yards, as a running back, receiver, and returner. He scored one touchdown on the ground, caught four scores, and had more than 350 yards in returns in 2018.

He was also a dynamic part of the Franklin secondary. With his quickness and agility, and his ability to find the hole and hit it at speed, Nally gives Franklin versatility in its offense that the Panthers will be counting on after the graduation of several key skill position players.

Nally has been a terrific athlete in multiple sports and the Panthers will be hoping that he can continue to bring the same level of success to the gridiron this fall and help them challenge for the division title."

Read the full listing online at HockomockSports.com
https://hockomocksports.com/hockomock-football-players-to-watch-on-offense/

Hockomock Football: Players to Watch on Offense - Nally, FHS

FHS Girls Field Hockey Team - fund raising at Chipotle - Sep 24

"Show your team spirit by joining us for a fundraiser to support Franklin High School -Booster - Girls Field Hockey Team. Come in to the Chipotle at 5 Franklin Village Drive in Franklin on Tuesday, September 24th between 5:00pm and 9:00pm. Bring in this flyer, show it on your smartphone or tell the cashier you’re supporting the cause to make sure that 33% of the proceeds will be donated to Franklin High School -Booster - Girls Field Hockey Team."

Franklin High School - Booster - Girls Field Hockey Team
Sep 24, 2019 from 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
5 Franklin Village Drive, Franklin, MA 02038


Download a copy of the flyer
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QyZ1BEsrifaHBp6SrcsBNp7N9COcZjAZ/view?usp=sharing

FHS Girls Field Hockey Team - fund raising at Chipotle - Sep 24

Franklin Residents: Drinking Water Notice

DRINKING WATER NOTICE

To all users of the Franklin Water Department

located in Franklin, Massachusetts

This is an important notice - please translate it for anyone who does not understand English.

We routinely monitor for the presence of drinking water contaminants to ensure the safety of the water supply. On August 28, 2019 our water system was notified that a water sample collected on August 27, 2019 from Grove St. Well #3 tested positive for E.coli, which is a fecal indicator. Fecal indicators are used to detect ground water sources that may be susceptible to fecal contamination which may contain harmful viruses or bacteria. THE WELL HAS NOT BEEN USED SINCE AUGUST 27th AND REMAINS OFFLINE.

The water delivered to your taps through the distribution system is disinfected with chlorine to kill viruses and bacteria, including E.coli. It is important to note that samples collected on August 27, 2019 in the distribution system did NOT detect any fecal contaminants.

This source is one of twelve active wells that supplies drinking water to our system. In accordance with the federal Ground Water Rule (GWR) requirements, we are notifying you of the situation and conducting additional sampling to evaluate the extent of potential fecal contamination and will take further actions as necessary.


WHAT SHOULD YOU DO? WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?

This is not an emergency, you do not need to boil your water or take other corrective actions at this time.

• The USEPA requires us to provide you with this notice and the following information on fecal indicators: “Fecal indicators are microbes whose presence indicates that the water may be contaminated with human or animal wastes. Microbes in these wastes can cause diarrhea, cramps, nausea, headaches, or other symptoms. They may pose a special health risk for infants, young children, some of the elderly, and people with severely compromised immune systems.” These symptoms can also be caused by issues unrelated to drinking water. If you experience any of these symptoms and they persist, or, if you have specific health concerns, you may want to discuss such concerns with your doctor. General guidelines on ways to lessen the risk of infection by microbes are available from the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791 or https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/safe-drinking-water-hotline

• Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and Businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail.

WHAT IS BEING DONE? 

The well will remain offline for further evaluation. Our system is undergoing repeat testing and evaluation to determine if the current level of treatment is adequate or if additional corrective actions are necessary to reduce the risk of potential fecal contamination in our drinking water supply.

We are in contact with MassDEP during this process who will evaluate the effectiveness of the steps taken and determine if any further action is required. If necessary, you will be notified again if you need to take any corrective actions. This notice does not affect persons using private drinking water wells.

For more information and further updates, please contact Laurie Ruszala, Water and Sewer Superintendent, at 508-520-4910 or visit http://www.franklinma.gov/.



PWSID#: 2101000 Date Distributed: August 28, 2019

Local officials touring an area of sewer main that had to be carved into rock

"officials in town have said the override request was unlikely to be the last"

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

"The town avoided a budget crisis Wednesday, after residents approved a $430,000 tax override in a town-wide election.

The proposal was put to residents in a ballot question during an election called solely for the override.

Turnout was nearly 25 percent of all Hopedale’s registered voters, with 569 voting for the proposal, and 419 voting against.

Officials said the money is needed to fund basic services for the town. Because the number was so large, employee jobs and hours were on the chopping block. Suggested cuts included a firefighter and closing Town Hall on Fridays."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190828/hopedale-approves-tax-override

Related post before the override vote
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/08/in-news-hopedale-votes-on-override-weds.html

 

Public Health Advisory - August 28, 2019

DEAR FRANKLIN RESIDENTS:

In response to the elevated risk of mosquito-borne illness this year, the Franklin Board of Health is requesting all home owners conduct a brief survey of their property to identify sources of standing water. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in stagnant/standing water found in clogged gutters, birdbaths, unmaintained swimming pools and swimming pool covers, tires, buckets and other containers as small as a bottle cap. Homeowners can significantly impact mosquito populations and better protect their families from mosquito-borne illness by eliminating these breeding sites on their property.

Unmaintained swimming pools must be drained, chlorinated or tightly covered to prevent mosquitoes from breeding in the standing water. Alternatively, homeowners may apply BTI mosquito dunks/pellets; a safe, natural occurring soil bacteria in pellet/donut form to standing water to effectively kill mosquito larvae for up to 30 days. Property owners are also urged to drain and wipe clean bird baths at least twice per week. Children’s wading pools should be emptied and turned over after each use.

Homeowners should also carefully inspect all window and door screens for damage, and repair or replace screens as necessary to prevent mosquitoes from entering their homes.

Ultimately, the most effective preventative measures are to avoid being outdoors during peak mosquito biting times if possible. Diligently apply a bug repellent containing 25-30% DEET and wear long sleeved shirts and long pants when outside.

The current threat is expected to remain elevated until the first hard frost of the season, which typically occurs in mid to late October.

If residents have questions or concerns you may contact the Franklin Health Department @508-520- 4905 during normal business hours, or email dmckearney@franklinma.gov at any time.


David E. McKearney, R.S. 
Public Health Director 
Franklin Health Department

Public Health Advisory - August 28, 2019

Urgent for Residents: Town of Franklin EEE Update

The Town of Franklin is currently at a LOW risk threat from the State of Massachusetts Department of Public Health. The following recommendations are being made to reduce potential exposure:

1.) Wear mosquito repellent Products with 30% DEET, Permethrin, Picardin or oil of lemon eucalyptus are the most effective

2.) Be aware of peak mosquito hours. Mosquitos are most active from dusk to dawn

3.) Drain standing water on your property Mosquitos lay eggs in standing or stagnant water

4.) Wear long sleeves and long pants Covering skin will limit potential exposure

The Norfolk County Mosquito Control is a great resource. Contact them HERE to schedule spraying on your property. http://www.norfolkcountymosquito.org/

Please click HERE for the EEE fact sheet and more helpful links.
http://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/uploads/eee_update_8_27_19_2_0.pdf

Contact the Board of Health with any additional questions.

Urgent for Residents: Town of Franklin EEE Update

Circle of Friends Coffeehouse: Abbie Gardner of Red Molly - Sep 7

Abbie Gardner is a fiery dobro player with an infectious smile.

Abbie Gardner Sep 7 View this email in your browser ABBIE GARDNER September 7 - 8 PM $20 Please join us as we begin our 30th season! Abbie Gardner is a fiery dobro player with an infectious smile. Whether performing solo or with Americana darlings Red Molly, her acclaimed tales of love and loss, both gritty and sweet, are propelled by her impeccable slide guitar chops. Her live show is truly unique - as both an award winning songwriter and interpreter of folk styles, a captivating vocalist, and a world class lap style dobro player, she has an unmistakable sound all her own. Her latest CD, Wishes on a Neon Sign was released in January 2018, and features twelve original songs, including a co-write with Chris Stapleton. She has opened for Lori McKenna, Hot Rize and Martina McBride. "Not only a first-rate Dobro player, but a songwriter to be reckoned with." --John Platt, WFUV https://abbiegardner.com/ The Circle of Friends Coffeehouse is a non-profit organization affiliated with Franklin's First Universalist Society. Concerts are presented in a smoke free and alcohol free environment at the Society's handicapped accessible Meetinghouse, 262 Chestnut St. in Franklin, and begin at 8:00 PM; doors open at 7:30 PM. Beverages and gourmet desserts will be available.  Please visit http://www.circlefolk.org/ to purchase tickets or for more information. Sorry, but our phone is not working right now. We are working to get it fixed. Upcoming Shows Sep 21       Ellis Paul with Rachael Kilgour Oct 5          The Kennedys Oct 19        Windborne Nov 2         Freebo, Alice Howe, & Kirsten Maxwell Nov 16       Peter Mulvey Dec 7         Winterbloom

Circle of Friends Coffeehouse · First Universalist Society · 262 Chestnut St · Franklin, MA 02038 · USA

“the best census ever, one that is complete and accurate”

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

"With just a few months left before America starts taking its biggest-ever self-portrait, the U.S. Census Bureau is grappling with a host of concerns about the head count, including how to ensure that it is secure and accurate and the challenge of getting most people to answer questions online.

All of that is on top of the main attention-grabber of the 2020 census so far — a citizenship question that was nixed by the Supreme Court, dropped by the Trump administration, resuscitated briefly and then abandoned again.

Beginning early next year, residents from Barrow, Alaska, to Key West, Florida, will be quizzed on their sex, age, race, the type of home they have and how they are related to everyone living with them.

At stake is the balance of political power in a deeply divided country, billions of dollars a year in federal funding and population data that will shape business decisions nationwide for years to come."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/zz/news/20190827/greatest-head-count-in-us-history-2020-census-is-nearly-ready-for-launch

Learn more at  Census 2020  https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/decennial-census/2020-census.html

“Adapting and changing can sometimes be scary"

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

"Carol Lynch has been packing school lunches for kids since the mid-1980s, first for her own children, then for her grandchildren. For her, buying lunch from school has never really been a consideration.

“It’s nothing against the lunches they serve,” said Lynch, who has helped raise two generations of children in the same Plymouth home. “For me, food has always been about family. No one can put personal touches on food like a parent or grandparent. (Whether it’s) a Thanksgiving meal or a quick school lunch, I just like to use food as a way of showing my love.”

But given all of the children across the state who do take part in their school’s lunch programs, food service departments have the complex task of designing menus that meet an ever-growing diverse student population. There are allergies and food restrictions, pressure to offer newer and healthier choices while also increasing participation rates (read: more revenue), and federal food guidelines that are changing under the current presidential administration.

“What’s on the menu today?” is more complicated now than ever before."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190828/school-lunches-balancing-act-to-satisfy-diverse-populations-loosened-regulations

“Adapting and changing can sometimes be scary"

The Franklin Food Services page  https://www.franklinps.net/district/food-services

The lunch menus for each school  https://franklindistrict.nutrislice.com/

Lunch payment accounts  https://www.myschoolbucks.com/ver2/login/getmain?requestAction=home

"The new Franklin location will be their ninth"

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

"If Joseph and Mary Nocera were around today, the immigrant founders of The Chateau restaurant would probably feel right at home opening up a dining room in Franklin where they could share their beloved Sicilian cuisine.

One hundred seven years after their arrival in the states, that’s exactly what their descendants are planning, now that the Town Council has approved the necessary common victualler’s and all-alcoholic beverages license.

The councilors recently voted unanimously to grant the license to the popular family-style Italian restaurant.

Chateau President Joseph Nocera on Tuesday said the hope is to open the restaurant in the next few months."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190827/chateau-restaurant-aims-to-open-location-in-franklin

"The new Franklin location will be their ninth"

Live reporting: Consent agenda to closing

7. Consent Agenda
a. Minutes - I recommend approval of the minutes from your August 13, 2019 School Committee meeting as detailed.
b. JFK Gift - I recommend acceptance of a check for $3,339.00 from the JFK PCC for supplemental supplies as detailed.
c. Music Gift - I recommend acceptance of a check for $2,785.05 from Music Parents for in- house enrichment as detailed. 
d. 2019 Student Activity Account Approval - I recommend approval of the 2019 Student Activity Accounts as detailed.

motion to approve, seconded, passed 7-0




8. Payment of Bills Dr. Bergen

9. Payroll Mrs. Douglas

10. Correspondence

12. Adjournment

motion to approve, seconded, passed 7-0 

Documents released for this meeting
https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/pages/august-27-2019-school-committee-packet