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Tuesday, January 14, 2014
Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail Monthly Meeting - January 14, 2014
MBTA Parking is switching pay-by-phone providers starting 2/1/14
| MBTA Parking is switching pay-by-phone providers starting 2/1/14. Visit http://www.mbta.com/riding_the_t/parking/ or call 1-866-234-7275 for details.
Last updated: Jan 13 2014 2:33 PM Click here for more information: http://www.mbta.com/riding_the_t/parking/
Sent by the MBTA. Manage subscriptions Manage account Help (or write subscriberhelp.govdelivery.com)
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In the News: community loss, trash delays
A community reeling and frozen in shock looked to loved ones for solace Monday after the Norfolk District Attorney’s office confirmed the deaths of two children who were found unresponsive in a wooden hope chest at their Chestnut Street home Sunday night. -
See more at: http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20140113/NEWS/140119569#sthash.OmhqNOQw.dpuf
Delays in trash and recycling will continue at least another two days as Waste Management recovers from truck problems caused in the last two weeks by frigid weather.See more at: http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20140114/NEWS/140119547#sthash.lZJWCD1C.dpuf
Monday, January 13, 2014
FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT: Update
A message from FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT
January 13, 2014
Dear Parents, Guardians, Faculty, Staff and Community Members:
Today was a challenging day for our community as we face the profound loss of two of our young students. We want to take a moment to apprise you of what happened today and what will happen in our elementary schools tomorrow.
Today grief counselors were on site to work with faculty, staff and students. Counselors collaborated with classroom teachers to conduct Open Circle about the accident. As we did not have information on the status of the children, we supported our students and attempted to make them feel safe in the learning environment. We did not have any conversation about loss or grief as this personal conversation is more appropriate between a parent and child. We respect the relationship and role of family in understanding tragedy and how each family approaches these events is based on religious, moral and the values of the family. School personnel do want to usurp the role or authority of the family.
After school our counselors met with faculty and staff to debrief and plan for Tuesday. We also offered counseling services to parents and families during the evening. Our counselors offer strategies, vocabulary and a script to facilitate these difficult conversations with children.
On Tuesday our counselors will conduct an Open Circle discussion with classroom teachers in all Davis Thayer classrooms. In all of our other elementary schools the faculty will monitor and assess the status of students and respond accordingly. If students in a class are struggling with this tragedy the staff has prepared an Open Circle dialog. Other communities have been gracious in offering assistance and as we understand that counseling will be ongoing we will assess on a daily basis.
If your child/children are experiencing difficulty understanding this tragedy we encourage you to contact your child's school and speak with the administration, the classroom teacher or a counselor. If you do not wish for your child to participate in an Open Circle discussion at your school, please notify your principal, assistant principal or classroom teacher.
As we face this tragedy we will face it as a community. One of the most enduring characteristics of Franklin is how our community supports one another in times of need. The family of these two young children will need all of our support in the coming days and months.
On behalf of the school community-thank you.
Respectfully,
The Administrative Team/Franklin Schools
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| Davis Thayer Elementary School |
This e-mail has been sent to you by FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT. To maximize their communication with you, you may be receiving this e-mail in addition to a phone call with the same message. If you wish to discontinue this service, please inform FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT either IN PERSON, by US MAIL, or by TELEPHONE at 508-613-1777.
Franklin Public Schools: Sad News
On Jan 13, 2014 8:46 AM, "FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT"
A message from FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT
Hello
The administration of the Franklin Public Schools received confirmation this morning that two of our elementary students passed away in a tragic accident on Sunday.
This is a sad and tragic event and our thoughts, prayers and sympathy go out to the family, friends and all those affected.
We have a crisis team in place at the school. We will have counseling services available after school for parents, students and faculty.
We ask that the community respect the privacy of the family at this time.
Respectfully,
Maureen Sabolinski
This e-mail has been sent to you by FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT. To maximize their communication with you, you may be receiving this e-mail in addition to a phone call with the same message. If you wish to discontinue this service, please inform FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT either IN PERSON, by US MAIL, or by TELEPHONE at 508-613-1777.
name that rain garden project!
The Franklin DPW is partnering with the Charles River Watershed Association (CRWA) to develop a rain garden project for the residents of Franklin. This program will offer a workshop to interested residents in which they will learn about rain gardens and how to reduce stormwater runoff by building their own.
Before the project gets underway, we need your help! Click the link below to vote for the slogan you feel best represents this project and Franklin's efforts to reduce stormwater runoff.
Vote Here!
Stay tuned for more information on the Franklin Rain Garden Project!
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| rain garden at Parmenter School |
As posted on the official Franklin webpage
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_DPW/General_pages/Rain_Garden_Slogan
You can read more about the Charles River Watershed Association http://www.crwa.org/
Update on trash/recycle schedule
Regular reader Renata received an email with this to share:
I would add that this week should be a 'normal' schedule while they are playing catch up.
I just received an email from Chris White (DPW) - here is what it says: "Leave the trash and recycling in the carts at the curb, Waste Management is behind and trying to catch up ASAP." Please share with your friends/neighbors.
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| trash/recycling ready for pickup on Union St |
I would add that this week should be a 'normal' schedule while they are playing catch up.
NECN News report on Chestnut St
A link to the NECN news report on the situation with 2 children found 'unresponsive' at a home on Chestnut St here in Franklin
Pothole season
This info was updated here
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2018/02/pothole-weather-reminder-to-use-dpw.html
With the changing weather, this is prime time for potholes. As announced previously, you can use your smart phone (and the built in GPS) to report a pothole. If you don't have a smart phone, you can also do so online.
You can follow this link from the DPW page
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_DPW/General_Pages/report_an_issue
or go directly to SeeClickFix.com and find the Franklin, MA page
http://seeclickfix.com/franklin_4
Walking on Saturday, I reported the pothole which is continuing to grow in front of the Rome Restaurant. Someone else reported it on Sunday.
http://seeclickfix.com/issues/887834-pothole?s=nearby
You can also report problems with street lights and with traffic lights. It is anticipated other problems will be added to this system over time.
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2018/02/pothole-weather-reminder-to-use-dpw.html
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| pothole by Rome Restaurant |
Sunday, January 12, 2014
Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - Jan 14, 2014
Vision Statement
The Franklin Public Schools will foster within its students the knowledge and skills to find and achieve satisfaction in life as productive global citizens.
AGENDA
"The listing of matters are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair which may be discussed at the meeting. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by law."
1. Routine Business
Citizen’s Comments
Review of Agenda
Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the December 10, 2013 School Committee Training Meeting.
Payment of Bills Mr. Clement
Payroll Mrs. Douglas
FHS Student Representatives
Correspondence: Budget to Actual – Miriam Goodman
2. Guests/Presentations
a. Best Buddies Grants – Sue Streeter
b. Elementary Report Card Revisions – Joyce Edwards
c. 2014-2015 School Calendar Draft
3. Discussion Only Items
a. Policy – First Reading
1. KCDA – Memorial Commemorations Policy
b. Policy – Discussion
1. KI – Visitors to the School
c. Collaborative Updates
4. Action Items
a. I recommend acceptance of a check for $216.07 from PBC for the FHS Athletic Dept.
b. I recommend acceptance of a check for $250.00 from Maura Schaeffer Jobin for a FHS Scholarship.
c. I recommend acceptance of a check for $1208.75 from the Parmenter PCC for field trips.
d. I recommend approval of the request of Paul Peri for the recurring field trip to Providence Place Mall on April 17, 2014 for Math at the Mall for RMS 8th graders.
e. I recommend moving Policy KCDA – Memorial Commemoration Policy as discussed to a second reading.
f. I recommend acceptance of a check for $50.00 from Lueder’s for the FPS District.
g. I recommend moving K-5 Report Card revisions for adoption after public review.
h. I recommend acceptance of a check for $3,400.00 from Vicario Studio for in-house enrichment at FHS.
i. I recommend acceptance of the donation of 5 Dominoes Pizzas, 500 pencils & $100.00 Office Depot gift card from the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society for Horace Mann Middle School.
j. I recommend acceptance of a check for $100.00 from Keller PCC for their 5th grade celebration.
5. Information Matters
Superintendent’s Report
School Committee Sub-Committee Reports
School Committee Liaison Reports
6. New Business
To discuss future business that may be brought before the School Committee.
7. Executive Session
Contractual Negotiations
8. Adjourn
Collaborative Update - 1
Collaborative Update - 2
Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - Jan 15, 2014
A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
November 13, 2013, November 20, 2013, December 4, 2013, and Executive Session Minutes of November 13, 2013
B. 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 Franklin Matters.
C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS
D. CITIZEN COMMENTS
E. APPOINTMENTS
Appointment of Treasurer Collector
Citizens Committee Appointment
Finance Committee Appointment
F. HEARINGS
Zoning Bylaw Amendment 13-726: A Zoning Bylaw to Amend the Franklin Town
Code at §185, Attachment 9. Schedule of Lot, Area, Frontage Yard and Height Requirements – 7:10 PM
G. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS
H. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS
“Lessons learned from Franklin Matters”, Steve Sherlock
I. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
J. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
1. Resolution 14-01: Appropriation: Spring Valley Estates/Brielle Way
2. Resolution 14-02: Purchase of Land off Cottontail Lane, Authorization and Appropriation – Requires 2/3 Vote
3. Resolution 14-03: Support for Legislation, H1586, An Act concerning electronic publication of certain legal notices
4. Resolution 14-04: Acceptance of Gift, Franklin Police Department
5. Bylaw Amendment 13-725: Chapter 170, Vehicles and Traffic – 2nd Reading
6. Bylaw Amendment 13-726: Zoning Bylaw Amendment §185, Attachment 9. Schedule of Lot, Area,
Frontage Yard and Height Requirements – 1st Reading
7. Bylaw Amendment 14-727: Chapter 47, Alcoholic Beverages – 1st Reading
8. Bylaw Amendment 14-729: Water Map Amendment – Uncas Avenue Extension – 1st Reading
9. Bylaw Amendment 14-730: Sewer Map Amendment – Uncas Avenue Extension – 1st Reading
K. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
L. OLD BUSINESS
M. NEW BUSINESS
N. COUNCIL COMMENTS
O. EXECUTIVE SESSION – Negotiations, Litigation, Real Property, as May Be Required
P. ADJOURN
The documents released for this published agenda can be found here
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_CouncilAgendas/2014/011514.pdf
Who is that Franklin veteran?
You had a bunch of fun around the holidays as we played "Where in Franklin?" The Historical Museum has a new set of photos of World War II veterans that they are trying to identify.
Go to the Facebook page to view and comment on the photos you can identify.
Click through to Facebook here
The museum has many veterans photos we are trying to identify. Some names we know, many we don't. But we are looking for more than a name. Take a look at this first collection of photos, do you recognize an Uncle, Grandfather, Father, friend? Let us know their name and tell us a story, share a memory. Help us honor these men and their lives. While perusing the photos you'll may see a front porch you recognize, you'll see some great shots of vintage autos and views of uptown from the 40's. Leave your comment under a specific photo and contact us with any questions.A sample of one of the many photos to review and identify
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| Go to Facebook to identify this individual |
Go to the Facebook page to view and comment on the photos you can identify.
Click through to Facebook here
Updated winter schedule for Historical Museum
Franklin Historical Commission has decided to close the Museum on Thursday nights through the end of February due to the cold winter evenings and low traffic. The Museum will be open weekends, as usual on Saturday mornings and Sunday afternoons. They will resume regular hours in March, including Thursday evenings.
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| Franklin Historical Museum - shown in Feb 2013 |
You can visit the Museum at their website
http://www.franklinhistoricalmuseum.com/
or on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/FHM02038
Winter hours:
January - February 2014Saturday - 10:00 to 1:00 PMSunday - 1:00 to 4:00 PM
What happened to the trash/recycle schedule this week?
The adjusted schedule was not met this week. As I walked along Union St, the even side from the tracks to 140 still had not been picked up. The odd side from 140 to the Town Common had not been picked up.
On my own street, the recycling was picked up on the adjusted day, the trash one day later and the tree is still there. I can assume there are other neighborhoods with similar results.
The question becomes how and why this occurred. The opportunity is also there to use this as an example where communications could be improved. The town alerts which were used to tell us about the change in schedule could also have been used to tell us why the schedule is not met.
What street do you live on and what is your status?
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| Union St heading towards West Central |
On my own street, the recycling was picked up on the adjusted day, the trash one day later and the tree is still there. I can assume there are other neighborhoods with similar results.
The question becomes how and why this occurred. The opportunity is also there to use this as an example where communications could be improved. The town alerts which were used to tell us about the change in schedule could also have been used to tell us why the schedule is not met.
What street do you live on and what is your status?
"It has an exponential positive effect”
The Milford Daily News has an article on local legislators and their use of the new social media or digital channels to communicate with their community. This is timely. I have a presentation scheduled for the Town Council meeting this Wednesday where I share what I have learned from publishing "Franklin Matters" over the past six years.
Social media should be one of the tools in the toolkit. My presentation is part of the Town Council agenda being published today. I will be updating it to include a couple of slides with some metrics and post that here as well.
How does Franklin Matters use social media? Briefly, each post auto generates a post to Twitter. The key posts are also scheduled to be shared on Facebook and Google+. The collection of posts on the webpage each day is emailed at 9:00 AM to those subscribers. If you would like to subscribe to the email listing you can do so here http://www.franklinmatters.org/p/welcome.html
Some legislators admit they only joined Twitter when they ran for office, but Rep. Jeff Roy, a Franklin Democrat, said he was tweeting way before then.
For the same reason he meets senior citizens at the senior center, Roy said he engages with younger constituents online.
“I like to see who would retweet something that I posted,” he said.
@JeffRoy tweeted this week: “I just committed to ride the Pan-Mass Challenge for 2014. Click here to join me!”- See more at: http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20140112/NEWS/140119788/1994/NEWS/?tag=2#sthash.QSJeLBnc.dpuf
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Social media should be one of the tools in the toolkit. My presentation is part of the Town Council agenda being published today. I will be updating it to include a couple of slides with some metrics and post that here as well.
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How does Franklin Matters use social media? Briefly, each post auto generates a post to Twitter. The key posts are also scheduled to be shared on Facebook and Google+. The collection of posts on the webpage each day is emailed at 9:00 AM to those subscribers. If you would like to subscribe to the email listing you can do so here http://www.franklinmatters.org/p/welcome.html
"help achieve safer homes and schools"
The Milford Daily News reports that Franklin has received some safety grants.
The town has been awarded $5,786 and $3,218, respectively, in grant funding through the Student Awareness of Fire Education (S.A.F.E.) and Senior SAFE Programs for the 2014 fiscal year.
The funding will support fire safety education programs for students and seniors in Franklin.
State Senators Richard Ross, R-Wrentham and Karen Spilka, D-Ashland, and State Rep. Jeffrey Roy, D-Franklin, announced the awards Friday.
In a statement, Ross said: “The S.A.F.E. Program has a longstanding history of success in educating Massachusetts children about fire safety and prevention. With the creation of the Senior SAFE Program, I hope that we are able to build upon that success and reach new populations with a high risk of fire-related injury and death.”- See more at: http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20140110/NEWS/140119935#sthash.CNqmJlBG.dpuf
Saturday, January 11, 2014
"market the property to small businesses"
The Milford Daily News reports on the Downtown Partnership meeting Thursday morning:
If you have any ideas about the Emmons St building, you can participate in the public hearing on Tuesday Jan 21 in the 3rd Floor Training Room at the Municipal Building at 7:00 PM.
An entertainment club, a quaint hotel, a lush park — when it comes to the question of how to develop the former Town Hall on Emmons Street, the downtown business community has more than a few suggestions.
Nearly 40 business leaders crowded into a conference room at Dean College Thursday morning to shop ideas for the property’s future.
The hour-long session, part of the Franklin Downtown Partnership’s monthly meeting, illuminated two potential scenarios for the town: sell or lease the building for commercial use or turn the entire property into green space for the public.- See more at: http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20140110/NEWS/140119987/1994/NEWS#sthash.PfGBSq7K.dpuf
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| Emmons St - file photo from March 2009 |
If you have any ideas about the Emmons St building, you can participate in the public hearing on Tuesday Jan 21 in the 3rd Floor Training Room at the Municipal Building at 7:00 PM.
Zentangle Class Wednesday January 15th at Jane's Frames
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Jane's Frames | 11 East Central Street | Franklin | MA | 02038
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