"How Can I Become Part of this ReadWriteWeb Revolution?"

In our continuing series on Web 2.0, the K12 Online Conference is underway. The video clip here is one of the two keynote addresses that opened the conference. It is being conducted virtually, that is, totally online.

The keynote presenters in this clip are all from Maine. They creatively used Flip cameras to video their conversation to share with the world.

Note: this presentation is geared for teachers and urges them to get involved in the ReadWriteWeb Revolution, but you can put yourself in this position too! How are you going to continue learning to keep up with the changes in this world?

The steps they outline are easy enough to pick up and use. The online tools are mostly free. Digital cameras or camera phones are reasonably priced. The bar for entry is set low. All you need is desire.




Click through to the web site for the conference to find additional information (i.e links) for the tools and articles they referenced.

Enjoy!

------

Why put this here?

There is great potential in expanding learning at a very reasonable cost (small dollars if not free) with the Web 2.0 tools. With an economic future like schools in MA in particular have facing them, this is an avenue to consider.

Franklin Line Schedule Changes 10/27/08

They are adjusting the schedule to "ease congestion" and to "accommodate the recent Amtrak schedule changes".

The MBTA apologizes for the "late notification".

The changes go into effect on Monday 10/27/08. The changes will be available on the MBTA schedule page on Monday. In the meantime, you should know that:

1 - what was known as the 4:10 PM train (#715) will leave South Station at 3:55 PM (15 minutes early)
2 - what was known as the 4:30 PM train (#799) will leave South Station at 4:30 but terminate at Readville running via the Dorchester Branch.
3 - a new train (#717) will leave South Station at 4:20 PM and make stops at Back Bay, Ruggles, Hyde Park, Readville, Dedham Corp, Norwood Depot, Norwood Central, Windsor Gardens, Walpole, Norfolk, Franklin/Dean and Forge Park/495.

A PDF of the changes is available on the MBTA website here

Really?

I have heard of stone soup but this takes the stone to a new level. Or has McDonald's bailed out Prudential and is now looking to expand their market as "The Rock"?


Note: Actually the sign is needed to tell those coming off I495 to turn on to RT 140 and find McDonald's about a half mile down the road. It is about time the sign came up. There must have been a few motorists complaining about having to travel at least 1.5 miles off the road to get to McDonald's. The distance would feel much longer without some confirmation as to where you really should be going.

"the right and humane thing to do"

By Joyce Kelly/Daily News staff

GHS

Posted Oct 20, 2008 @ 11:35 PM

---

FRANKLIN —

An animal rescue organization from Salisbury is trying to save a colony of feral cats living in the woods near Highwood Condominiums whose management plans to trap and kill them.

Stacy LeBaron, president of the Merrimack River Feline Rescue Society, said she and a Highwood resident met with management last week and are negotiating an alternative to the board of trustees' plan.

"It's a work in progress. They haven't agreed to back down, but they aren't doing anything as we gather more information (from Purr-fect Cat Shelter). We're hoping to try to get people talking and brainstorming and get solutions," LeBaron said.

The society, a statewide, nonprofit volunteer organization that provides free services and promotes no-kill programs for feral cats (www.mrfrs.org), will offer Purr-fect Cat Shelter help and resources, she said.

"I do believe it's possible to have a successful feral cat colony" by using the trap, neuter/spay, release process, said LeBaron.

Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here

Autumn color

This neighborhood tree shows it range of color.



Enjoy!

"many hopeful aspects in the fight against global warming"

By Michelle Laczkoski/Daily News staff

GHS

Posted Oct 19, 2008 @ 10:30 PM

---

FRANKLIN —

A discussion about climate change gleaned "surprisingly pleasant" results yesterday, one participant noted during an afternoon Global Warming Cafe.

About 20 people took part in the Franklin Area Climate Team's roundtable discussion to trade ideas on fears and hopes for the planet's future.

"We want to work together to reduce our personal and collective carbon footprint," said Ted McIntyre, co-captain of Franklin Area Climate Team.

Members of the Massachusetts Climate Action Network (MCAN) joined the local "climate team" yesterday at the First Universalist Society of Franklin to talk to residents from Franklin, Bellingham, Millis, Wrentham, Foxborough and more.

"Be inspired, and take action in the future," Susan Altman of MCAN told the audience as they broke into small groups.

The groups compiled lists of concerns about and solutions to climate change.

Read the remainder of the article in the Milford Daily News here

"not 'welfare' - it is an entitlement"

By Joyce Kelly/Daily News staff

GHS

Posted Oct 20, 2008 @ 12:41 AM

Last update Oct 20, 2008 @ 12:44 AM

---

Worried about seniors living paycheck to paycheck this winter, area senior center directors say they are making an all-out effort to help them.

Now, more than ever, it is crucial that struggling seniors take advantage of programs they are entitled to, said Bellingham Outreach Coordinator Sheila Ronkin: tax abatements, fuel and food assistance, and circuit breakers.

"It was very important before the economy fell apart, but now, some of these folks live really threadbare lives. Without some help, they're not going to have enough heat or food. Even folks more well-heeled may not be able to buy Christmas presents or birthday presents for their loved ones," said Franklin Senior Center Director Karen Alves.

Many seniors don't realize they qualify for tax credits or other assistance, so they don't even bother to apply, Alves said. But that is a mistake.

Through the state's circuit breaker program, seniors can get up to $900 a year in real estate tax abatements if they pay more than 10 percent of their gross income in taxes, and that includes water and sewer fees, Alves said.

So if a senior makes $30,000 a year, pays $3,000 in real estate tax, plus $500 for water and sewer ($3,500 in taxes), they can get $500 back from the state, she said.

Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here

King St - construction progress

Time is flying. Haven't taken a snapshot in awhile and the construction has moved quickly along in the meantime.





This would be numbered 190 or 192 King St.

FM #18 - Asst Supt M Sabolinski Interviewed - Part 2

This is the 18th podcast for what matters in Franklin, MA and the second part to the interview of Asst Supt Maureen Sabolinski for the Superintendent of Franklin Public Schools.

Part 1 - Maureen reviewed her resume and how she has developed and is prepared to cover all aspects of the role of the Superintendent.

Part 2 - This is the Q&A session with Maureen and members of the School Committee starting with the FHS Student Representative Pat Slight.

Time: 28 minutes, 36 seconds



MP3 File

The notes that I took as I was "live reporting" this meeting can be found here

---- ---- ----

This podcast has been a public service provided to my fellow Franklin citizens and voters by Steve Sherlock

For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.blogspot.com/

If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com

The musical intro and closing is from the Podsafe Music Network
Jon Schmidt - Powerful Exhilarating Piano Music

FM #17 - Asst Supt M Sabolinski Interviewed - Part 1

The 17th podcast on what matters in Franklin, MA. This week we focus a two part series on the interview of Asst Supt Maureen Sabolinski by the School Committee for the open superintendent position.

This is Part 1: The School Committee listens as Maureen reviews her resume and educational development.

Part 2 will cover the Q&A session that follows.

Time: 33 minutes, 36 seconds



MP3 File

The notes that I took as I was "live reporting" this meeting can be found here

---- ---- ----

This podcast has been a public service provided to my fellow Franklin citizens and voters by Steve Sherlock

For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.blogspot.com/

If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com

The musical intro and closing is from the Podsafe Music Network
Jon Schmidt - Powerful Exhilarating Piano Music

"sometimes kids come to school in the dead of winter with no coats"

By Heather McCarron, Daily News staff

GHS

Posted Oct 18, 2008 @ 11:50 PM

---

FRANKLIN —

Lindy Conroe always knew Jen Ballarino was amazing and special, but when the much-loved Franklin resident died in May following a long battle with brain cancer, Conroe was still deeply moved by the stories she heard.

"I've since heard such amazing stories she never told people," Conroe reflected recently.

For example, when Ballarino was working as a substitute teacher, she would often bring in coats and other necessary items for children she'd noticed were going without.

So it seems only fitting there is now an effort to collect coats and other outerwear for donation to homeless children and their families, all in Ballarino's memory.

It's part of the ongoing mission behind the newly formed Jen's Jackets, organized by Conroe and other friends and family of Ballarino. It's also the charity that has been adopted by Postal Center U.S.A. in Franklin, as well as its other area locations, in recognition of and leading up to Make A Difference Day on Oct. 25.

read the full article in the Milford Daily News here

fiction and non-fiction

the books are plentiful, varied and reasonably priced at this year's Library Book Sale.



head on over to the DPW garage on Heyward St, Saturday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Mobile post sent by shersteve using Utterli. Replies.

Franklin: follow the boxes

Franklin: follow the boxes, originally uploaded by shersteve.

Yes, follow the boxes to the Library Book Sale being held this year at the DPW garage on Heyward St.

Saturday 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Vote NO on Question 1

Financial Planning Committee 10/16/08

the collection of posts for the Financial Planning Committee meeting on Thursday 10/16/08

• Live reporting - continued
• Live reporting - Financial Planning Committee 10/1...

The "official" town minutes for this meeting can be found here

Live reporting - continued

Bartlett - we'll also need to show what the cuts were over the same time period to show what was done in order to make due.

Kelly - need to be consistent on the dates.

Bartlett - need to include the increases in road miles, students, teachers, buildings, etc.

Trahan - there should be substance to the information.

Ogden - growth and change in fees and other revenues that have come in to supplement the tax revenues

Kelly - the average tax bill needs to be looked at to put it into perspective.

Nutting - on the other hand, for all we have cut, people can still go to the library, get the streets plowed. Hard to say what the real impact is.

Bartlett - but we know now we can do this much longer, even to just stay the same. There isn't room to cut without significant changes.

Nutting - I'll come up with a list of things and you can add to it, or change it. I'll focus on the big picture.

Roche - I'd like to start digging into these numbers, like low medium and high for Fire/Police, etc.

Nutting - the salary is already set based upon the bargaining agreements.

Ogden - need to be caution about salary expectations and forecasts in that arena.

Hardesty - has a spreadsheet that shows the Town budgets in a declining order. Realistically this will help us focus as once you go lower than 6 budget lines, you are talking about 2% of the budget. Those as interesting as they are become not really material to the discussion.

Nutting - there is no game plan if Question 1 passes. If that passes, it will be chaos until the Legislature does something. It was on 8 years ago and got 45% of the vote.

Roche - Doug's building the model.
Nutting- I'll get the statistics.

Cameron - if our population has been flat for five years, we also need to remind them of that.

Nutting - you can give historical background, in 1993 there were 3200 students and now there are 6200 students.

Trahan - when do we get to the timeline?
Nutting - Budget to the Council probably in March.

Nutting - 80% of the HR rules are in the State, we don't get to control our destiny.

Roche - we are trying to show what the problem is, it is systemic.

Ogden - part of the problem is perceptual, the average citizen doesn't understand that we brought two buildings online and are going to need additional money to operate. The difference between capital and operational expenses.

Bartlett - I'll take a crack at the calendar.

Hardesty - the idea of level services needs to be defined to be consistent and easy to understand.

Bartlett - I have trouble with "level services" when used with education. You may say the same with the dollars but the education in the room is not the same "level".

Live reporting - Financial Planning Committee 10/16/08

Attending: Jim Roche, Roberta Trahan, Doug Hardesty, Jeff Nutting, Wayne Ogden, Miriam Goodman, Matt Kelly, Tina Powderly, Gwynne Wilschek, Deb Bartlett

Not Attending: Shannon Zollo, Steve Whalen,

Roche - What do you think of the announcement yesterday?

Nutting - I think we dodge a bullet with the Governor's moves yesterday. If they need to go deeper, I am not sure how we are going to avoid it. In comparison, health insurance was a non-issue years ago. It is not a rosy picture. Not new news but that's what it is.

Roche - we won't know revenue numbers for some time, but we will need to work up the expense side.

School Budget will be presented at the second meeting in November (11/20/08)

Roche - start with Jeff's model and tweak it with what we have heard?

Nutting - won't know what our debt will be until later as it is based upon 5% but if that changes, there'll be some adjustments. Some time late in March we go for the bonds to wrap up the Senior Center, Fire Station, etc. Approx. 18 million.

Roche - looking at the model where do we need to go?

Nutting - in FY 2010, the salary is in at 4% and that can come down. There will be pressure on the School Committee as they have been falling behind.

In 2002, the health insurance went into the School Budget moved from the Town budget.

Hardesty - take the assumptions that we have been hearing, explain with notations, low end, high end. Here is the diligence that we did around it. Some assumptions won't make a material difference, others will. To simplify, we can separate those out for the presentation. A hugh portion of the budget is salary, benefits, the people portion. From the Fire/Police we have some operational numbers, how many cars, vehicles you have help to determine how many people you need.

Nutting - Fixed costs increase, you heard Brutus and Mike. We'll need to explain where those are and why.

Bartlett - In the end, are we going to come with what the Town desires? and in that, what is it that the Town will bear?

Hardesty - We need to come up with the three options, say. Level service, high end and cutting. The numbers need to be factual with integrity.

Trahan - I am concerned that we may be coming up with numbers that may not be doing as much as we thought it would due to circumstances that have changed.

Nuting - how far back do we go? If we pick for example, FY 05 we know what salt was, we know what fuel was, so it can be simply explained. Everybody should be able to recognize those and see what the increases are.

"It seems like a win-win for everyone"

By Joyce Kelly/Daily News staff

GHS

Posted Oct 16, 2008 @ 12:48 AM

---

FRANKLIN —

Town Council voted unanimously last night to lease the historic Red Brick School to the Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School for one year.

The town will most likely rent the school for $1 and the cost of running the 11,650-square-foot, 175-year-old building, said Town Administrator Jeffrey D. Nutting, but the town and school have not yet negotiated.

"I've asked for a 10-year authorization, but they (the charter school's board of trustees) want to try it out for a year" and determine whether it fits them, Nutting said.

Charter school trustees worry about the safety of students and staff crossing through traffic at the intersection of Lincoln and Maple streets to get to the building, trustee President John Neas has said.

Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here

Town Council Mtg Summary 10/15/08

• town council - closing items
• live reporting - zoning bylaw
• live reporting - action items (continued)
• live reporting - action items
• Live reporting - legislation for action
• Live reporting - Town Council 10/15/08
• FRANKLIN TOWN COUNCIL - Agenda - 10/15/08

School Committee Meeting 10/14/08

This is the collection of live reporting and other posts related to the meeting 10/14/08

• Transportation Update - 10/14/08
  
• Live reporting - new business
• Live reporting - subcommittee/liaison reports
• Live reporting - Superintendents report
• Live reporting - action items
• Live reporting - discussion only items
• Live reporting - transportation update
• Live reporting - Summer Blackboard
• Live reporting - School Committee meeting
• Franklin School Committee Meeting - Agenda - 10/14...

Transportation Update - 10/14/08

Here is the promised slide that was shared during the School Committee meeting on Tuesday, 10/14/08.

town council - closing items

K. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
Nutting's statement on Question 1 - numbers for the actual impact vary

Bartlett - when are the road projects done for the winter?
Temporary patch before the winter

L. OLD BUSINESS
Pfeffer - what up with Walgreen's?
Nutting - Walgreen's P&S was signed in August

Whalen - we should check in with them?
Nutting - we met with them today, they asked for a 2 week extension to prepare to file for the next steps


M. NEW BUSINESS

N. COUNCIL COMMENTS

Pfeffer - thanks to the Animal Control for finding one dumb dog

live reporting - zoning bylaw

13. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 08-625: Chapter 185-5, Town Code: Zoning Map – Business to Commercial II – 2nd Reading (Tabled on 10/1/08)

moved to Nov 5th


14. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 08-628: Chapter 185-18. Nonconforming Uses and Structures – Referral to Planning Board

approved referral to Planning Board, unanimous

live reporting - action items (continued)

9. Resolution 08-67: Acceptance of Sewer Pump Station- Franklin Farms
roll call; approved 7-0


I. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
Senior Center study revealed 780 seniors with homes that are eligible for tax benefits


10. Resolution 08-68: Appropriation – Emergency Repairs - Lincoln St. Culvert

Robert Cantoreggio, Dir of Public Works
Limited Lincoln Street closure required to do the work, coordinated with Town CTS system for notifications,School Dept notified for bus routing, most of the time, there will be one lane open

roll call; approved 7-0


11. Resolution 08-69: Appropriation – DPW – Trench Repairs

extended discussion on the cost per square yard vs. the amount charged/held from the contractor

approved 7-0


12. Resolution 08-70: Acceptance of Gift – Council on Aging

approved 7-0

live reporting - action items

4. Resolution 08-62: Acceptance of Deed of Open Space- Franklin Chase
roll call; approved -> 7-0

5. Resolution 08-63: Acceptance of Deed of Open Space- Franklin Oaks
roll call; approved -> 7-0

6. Resolution 08-64: Order of Acceptance and Taking – Easements – Franklin Farms
roll call; approved -> 7-0

7. Resolution 08-65: Acceptance of Open Space and Access Strip- Franklin Farms
roll call; approved -> 7-0

8. Resolution 08-66: Acceptance of Deed of Detention Basin Parcels-Franklin Farms
roll call; approved -> 7-0

Live reporting - legislation for action

J. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
1. Resolution 08-59: Dissolution of Fire Station Building Committee (Tabled on 10/1/08) moved to a future meeting

2. Resolution 08-60: Designation of Municipal Officer to Issue Trench Excavation Permits
McGann - will there be a fee required?
Nutting - yes, but that remains to be determined

Bartlett - what is this for?
Cerel - we need to do this to enforce the current law

Bartlett - should they complain where do they go to?
Nutting - state legislature

Approved 7-0

3. Resolution 08-61: Red Brick School: Declaration as Surplus and Available/Authorization to Lease

Vallee - what is the amount of the lease? people have a right to know, it is not ours it is theirs.
Nutting - we have not sat down yet to discuss. I am asking for 10 years. They have indicated one year to trial.

Vallee - let's put everything on the table before we vote on it.

Whalen - are they any other instances that the Town has currently?
Nutting - not right now.

Whalen - my inclination is that this is something that should be handed over to Jeff to handle

Doak - I am not in favor of the Town acting as a landlord but under the circumstances, this is a good thing to do

Feeley - does this need a 2/3 vote?
Cerel - yes, it is a change of status on the assets

Vallee - the Town is leasing for no profit?
Nutting - there is no market value for this building, it will cost us more while it is vacant.

Doak - can we get a report back on what the deal was?
Nutting - yes

Pfeffer - we are not doing this to make money, the Charter School is not a profit making operation

Herb Hunter, Paula Sandman - Brick School Association
We are committed to fund utilities and associated repairs for the next three years and solicit grants for continuation, if it requires after that.

Whalen - Brick has been an emotional issue for the Town, this make absolute perfect sense to me

Roll call vote passed 7-0

Live reporting - Town Council 10/15/08

Councilors attending: Whalen (late), Vallee, Bartlett, Feeley, Pfeffer, Doak, McGann,
Not present: Mason, Zollo


A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – October 1, 2008-Executive Session - approved 6-0

B. ANNOUNCEMENTS - Library book fair, Saturday, 10/18 at Public Works Dept, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS

D. CITIZEN COMMENTS

E. APPOINTMENTS

Library Board of Directors

• Susan Rittenhouse
  
• Cynthia Dobroynski
• Andrea Burke
  
• these were approved 6-0

Finance Committee

• Robert Teixeira
• Juan Riveria
• Tina Powderly
  
• these were approved 6-0

Disability Commission

• Dennis Groleau
• This was approved 6-0

"strong public schools are a cornerstone of a democratic society"

By Joyce Kelly/Daily News staff

GHS

Posted Oct 15, 2008 @ 12:03 AM

---

FRANKLIN —

Assistant Superintendent Maureen Sabolinski, the only candidate for the district's superintendent job, told the School Committee last night she is ready to take the reins from Wayne Ogden.

The School Committee will vote whether to appoint Sabolinski at its next meeting Oct. 28, said Vice Chairwoman Paula Mullen, who acted as chairwoman in Jeffrey Roy's absence last night.

"We know a lot about her," Mullen said, calling her work ethic and talent "amazing" just before inviting Sabolinski to speak to the committee about her background and vision for the district.

Sabolinski described an extensive background in special education that began in her home state of New York, where she worked with inner-city children.

When she and her husband decided to come to Massachusetts in 1992, they focused on Sharon, Mansfield and Franklin, she said, and it was immediately clear that Franklin was the right community.

"One draw to Franklin was, when we came here, we were able to walk into the schools and were welcomed. We had never gotten that reception in any of the other towns. Franklin was really welcoming, and that spoke highly of the teachers," she said.

Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here

FRANKLIN TOWN COUNCIL - Agenda - 10/15/08

FRANKLIN TOWN COUNCIL
October 15, 2008
7:00 PM

A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – October 1, 2008-Executive Session

B. ANNOUNCEMENTS

C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS

D. CITIZEN COMMENTS

E. APPOINTMENTS

• Library Board of Directors
• Finance Committee
• Disability Commission

F. HEARINGS

G. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS

H. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS

I. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS

J. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
1. Resolution 08-59: Dissolution of Fire Station Building Committee (Tabled on 10/1/08)
2. Resolution 08-60: Designation of Municipal Officer to Issue Trench Excavation Permits
3. Resolution 08-61: Red Brick School: Declaration as Surplus and Available/Authorization to Lease
4. Resolution 08-62: Acceptance of Deed of Open Space- Franklin Chase
5. Resolution 08-63:Acceptance of Deed of Open Space- Franklin Oaks
6. Resolution 08-64: Order of Acceptance and Taking – Easements – Franklin Farms
7. Resolution 08-65:Acceptance of Open Space and Access Strip- Franklin Farms
8. Resolution 08-66: Acceptance of Deed of Detention Basin Parcels-Franklin Farms
9. Resolution 08-67: Acceptance of Sewer Pump Station- Franklin Farms
10. Resolution 08-68: Appropriation – Emergency Repairs-Lincoln St. Culvert
11. Resolution 08-69: Appropriation – DPW – Trench Repairs
12. Resolution 08-70: Acceptance of Gift – Council on Aging
13. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 08-625: Chapter 185-5, Town Code: Zoning Map – Business to Commercial II – 2nd Reading (Tabled on 10/1/08)
14. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 08-628: Chapter 185-18. Nonconforming Uses and Structures – Referral to Planning Board

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

"this is a solution that puts it back in use"

By Joyce Kelly/Daily News staff

GHS

Posted Oct 14, 2008 @ 10:14 PM

---

FRANKLIN —

Town Council tonight will vote on leasing the historic Red Brick School to the Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School.

Earlier this month, the charter school's board of trustees agreed to rent the Red Brick School from the town for one year, according to its board president, John Neas, a Franklin resident.

Trustees primarily want to use the Brick School, Neas said, because there is a "critical need of space" at the charter school, which is an estimated 35,000 square feet.

The charter school's student population is 416, Neas said, and there is a waiting list of 200 students the school cannot accommodate.

Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here

Live reporting - new business

Rohrbach - put together a summary of the status of our schools to use as a point of discussion with our legislators when they come to visit


motion go to executive session

Live reporting - subcommittee/liaison reports

• School Committee Sub-Committee Reports

space needs report to be prepared to go to the school committee for further action
walk through of modulars scheduled for Friday morning

Building Committee, couple of meetings, impressive credentials
organizational meetings, what data is needed
re-applying to state to get on list in Mid-November
touring FHS and Davis Thayer to determine space needs
scheduled to review all building capital needs
(1) FHS, (2) modular, (3) need and funding improvements at Parmenter, Thayer, Kennedy

Advertising subcommittee with a proposal for advertising inside the field house within a meeting or two


• School Committee Liaison Reports

Live reporting - Superintendents report

5. Information Matters
• Superintendent’s Report

1. Enrollment Comparison (9-28-07 to 9-26-08)
2. MCAS- Davis Thayer 4th grade in Top 5 in state
   
3. Art Gallery - teacher art show received attention from Rep McGovern
   
4. Special Ed. Tuition Increases - example of increases received during the year
   
5. Revolving Account - question legality of returning money from a gift account, what I recommended and you approved was to turn it over to the Town as they are now managing the building

Live reporting - action items

4. Action Items

1. Moved that the Franklin School Committee opposes Question 1, a ballot initiative that would eliminate the state income tax. Passage of Question 1 would cut the state budget by 40%, cause massive reductions in local aid to cities and towns, and result in drastic reductions in school programs. approved 6-0
   
2. I recommend acceptance of a check for $400.00 from money left over from a community service grant awarded to 2 Remington Teachers to be used for supplies for RMS. approved 6-0
3. I recommend acceptance of the donation of a “Fun Hoop” for the Keller Elementary School in memory of Noreen Coffey from FPS Staff (Cost: $800.00) approved 6-0
4. I recommend acceptance of a check for $800.00 from the Horace Mann PCC to fund Middle School Magic at HMMS. postponed to another meeting
   
5. I recommend acceptance of a check for $5,000 from the Jefferson PCC for admission, buses and nurse for a field trip to Plimoth Plantation and a Grade 4 trip which has not yet been finalized. approved 6-0
6. I recommend acceptance of a check for $1,420.00 from the ECDC PCC to purchase a laminator for the ECDC. approved 6-0
7. I recommend approval of the recurring trip to Mt. Monadnock in Jaffrey, NH on October 25, 2008 for 30 students in the Remington Adventure Club. approved 6-0
8. I recommend acceptance of the donation of a ½ size string bass, (said value: $1,200.00), from Ms. Colleen Pierson for the Davis Thayer Elementary School Music Program. approved 6-0
9. I recommend acceptance of a check for $3880.50 from the Keller PCC for a 1st grade field trip to Jane & Paul’s Farm and a 3rd grade field trip to Plimoth Plantation as described on the attached form KCD-E. approved 6-0
10. I recommend acceptance of a check for $180.39 from Target’s Take Charge of Education Program for In-house enrichment for the Horace Mann Middle School. approved 6-0
11. I recommend transferring $1,268.17 closing the Brick School Revolving account to the Town of Franklin. approved 6-0

Live reporting - discussion only items

3. Discussion Only Items

• Ballot Question #1

open to comments
Rohrbach - question referenced well in editorial at Metrowest Daily News, poorly timed, Governor is announcing cuts at the state level just from shortfall in this years budget

Cafasso - kind of a silly proposition, relieves people of the concept of commonwealth and community, we all share in the benefits from these payments, no one likes taxes but everyone wants police and fire protection and services for seniors, you can't get one without the other

• FY10 Budget Timeline

Rohrbach - preliminary budget timeline included in the package, goal to be done and have the budget adopted by February 24, 2009

Goodman - process starting and scheduled to complete by Feb

Cafasso - anything from the Town Administrator on revenue projections
Ogden - nothing yet, we might get a hint with the Governor's announcements tomorrow

• Superintendent Search

Asst Supt Maureen Sabolinski to review her background and vision of the district
Wayne has started from the first time they met to prepare her for this

Moved her from NJ in 1992
son middle school, daughter elementary
first impression was on their first visit, teacher welcomed them and provided a tour of the school

class sizes then are somewhat reminicent of where we are today
hang in there, the community has always stepped up

involved in soccer and basketball boosters

loves coming to work in Franklin everyday
this has been a difficult decision to leave her current role for this new step

"tell me how this is about kids"
strong public schools are the cornerstone of a democratic society
need to prepare students to be lifelong learners
collaborative style, accessible, responsive
communications need to be returned

demonstrated history for systemic fixes, not quick fixes
will take difficult decisions

grew up in NY, started to be a science major, switched to psychology mainly behaviorial, needed teach the rats but couldn't leave them hungry, needless to say, clinical psychology was not going to be her direction.

found teaching and found her love
started in NYC public schools, special ed in Queens, 90% of students were from S America

a teacher left, she ended up a first grade teacher
whole extended family would come to the parent teacher conferences

Taught high school outside of Buffalo, Grand Isle
special education, when inclusion was just beginning
petitioned for use of spell check on the state test, had already been used in the classroom

Randolph, NJ - Rockaway public schools
varied student population, 3rd to 6th grade
multiple reading and math groups

Came to MA and had trouble getting licensed
was asking for the wrong license and got that straightened out fairly quickly

Came into Franklin as an Asst Spec Ed Coordinator
first day here, the high school principal resigned
had multiple roles, did the state reporting online
learned about data and data collection

initiated team chairs, hired a behaviorist
highlighted in 1999 for having the most cost-effective special education program in the area
letter of congratulations from Jeff Nutting whom she had not met at that time

peanut allergy policy developed, still get requests for policy from outsiders
salmanella policy, drop-out rate addressed, focused attention at the needs of the at-risk students at the high school

has done the range of duties of the superintendent
budget, transportation, curriculum, end of year reports
comfortable in working with Miriam on the budget reports

vision to move the school district forward
need to keep the initiatives going (literacy, gifted and talented, opening up AP courses)
district improvement plan, in smaller ways to move from good to great
with small money opening new initiatives
look at students assessment

MCAS is a test for knowledge, we need to test how they are going to use it to be successful in the coming years

student lead conferencing at Remington, need to expand that

senior project, a really good start for school to career transition
how do we expand that to integrate

math and science growth has been good need to keep that growth systemic and district wide

need to get the labs at the high school renovated to be useful

laptops are just one tool, how is technology going to support our program
foreign language, technology is one easy way to expand that program

community relations are an important role
schools need to be represented at the Harvest Festival

expand relationship with Dean College
work with the PCC and Joint PCC, talent there that needs to get tapped

need to do more work with our alumni
important to the history to celebrate the contributions

------
Mr Slight - she puts students needs first and I think that says a lot

Rohrbach - I did not know all the stuff you have done although I have known you for some time. What will be your biggest obsticle?

Sabolinksi - the most obvious one is the budget, the reality is we are not going to get an major influx of cash, we are going to need to look at some serious discussions, how can we continue to do what we need to do, get seed money to prepare for larger grants down the road to augment the instructional program, don;t see a quick fix over the next several years

Rohrbach - any cost savings you can see
Sabolinksi - there are not a lot of areas left to cut, despite some of the community perceptions, we are already looking for the parents and PCCs to pick up more and more. Can explore further avenues with the Town on consolidation, may save the Town some money that would look favorably for us

Rohrbach - what do you see for the high school
Sabolinski - looking at the high school and getting atitudes changed, then it makes it easier for other changes, how to assess, using a more common assessment, looking to more partnership with Dean, renovated libary, are they willing to share and open it up for us. Reading, writing and other core academics, would love to see public speaking back in, not just about content, working on teams will be needed

Kelly - greatist strength that you'd bring to Franklin
Sabolinski - sometimes I over think decisions, when you worry about your job you are always thinking of alternatives

Cafasso - appreciate the blue collar background, like the ideas of partnerships and sharing resources, looking at the professionals who live in the community, these are good. What is your least favorite thing about the school committee?
Sabolinksi - the ley to being successful in this role is developing a relationship with this committee, mutual respect, feedback loop needed

Cafasso - enrollment on elementary level is down about 60, it seems like we will need re-districting to meet our space needs?
Sabolinski - once the market turns around, we will see an influx of kids K-12, Keller Sullivan will be a problem spot due to the growth in that area, they are at capacity. You will need to swing growth from that end of town to this end of town.

Cafasso - when 2010?
Sabolinski - will really depend on the Building Committee and where they plan, you don't want to re-district multiple times in a short period

Cafasso - teacher evaluations, how has that changed and what would you change?
Sabolinski - it is an evolving process, our primary role is to put the best teachers in the classroom and for those teachers who are struggling to help them. Supervision and evaluation, we meet with the principals regularly, would like to make the tool and process a little less combersome, would require negotiation with FEA. relationships with parents, relationships with students, and with other teachers, need to do some tweaking on our current tool

Armenio - could you talk about retaining teachers and administrators
Sabolinski - one of the key things to retain is to ensure them of some stability in programs and initiatives, a consistency in leadership and agenda, our professional development is very favorable for the teachers. Not all districts have funds alloted this way. Work on meeting schedules to lessen their load. More cycles with letting people go, makes it harder to recruit and retain teachers here.

Trahan - where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Sabolinski - I would hope I would still be here, the life expectancy of a superintendent is shrinking, I would like to make a long term committement, it requires time to put changes in place

Trahan - you have your eyes wide open, sounds like you are equiped for the challenge
Sabolinski - it would be an honor to work here, there are great staff here, the downside is the cash. Last spring this Blackboard was not a project, things like this are happening all through the district. It would be an honor to work with you all.

Mullen - time table, we will be taking action at our next meeting

Live reporting - transportation update

Asst Supt. Maureen Sabolinski, Miriam Goodman

(chart to be made available later)
The chart is an update from one posted in August

Cafasso - If pay-to-ride were to be fee funded it would be approx $670/student

Live reporting - Summer Blackboard

Pandora Carlucci introduces this joint venture between the Life Long Learning and the High School

Supt Ogden with his leadership and collaborative encouragement, this was finally possible

Peter Light's tenacity lead to the success of the program

50 students participated, 3 obtained scholarships to participate

-----------

Peter Light claims it really was a team effort

looking for this to be a self-sustaining program, could extend the program to

a key goal:
create new opportunities for students, limited offerings due to curriculum requirements

Blackboard, an online platform to facilitate learning
this platform is used at some colleges
students completed coursework from around the world
credits for courses offered an completed successfully

mailed to other schools around the state
reaching out to other districts and other students (will help fund the program)

Mr Sutherland - create and set up course, allows for adjustments along the way
allows for secure dialog between students and teacher
there was a learning curve with the program particularly with setting up the test and enabling it to be available online
allowed flexibility to turn in assignments early
11 students took his class in forensics, a lot of reading, a lot of outside research required
his class is archived and available for re-use, embellishment, etc.

Mrs Belastock

Mr Lima provided a demo of the Blackboard

could key the astronomy program to the specific longitude/latitude so that the view of the sky would be as close to actual as possible, assuming no clouds, you could turn around and see the sky

paper copies made available if computer was not available

each Tuesday night, there was a live session, Mr Lima was online, the students had tasks to observe and report back via the online, they could also ask other questions

over 4 weeks, on Tuesday nights averaged about 75 messages each night

Q&A
Armenio - what were the challenges? You're at home, relaxed.
I was at band camp at UNH and taking the course online
Needed self discipline and motivation to do the assignments and complete them on time

Armenio - would you do it again?
yes

Armenio - are you using Accuplacer?
Pam Gould, FHS Principal - yes a possibility, we are looking at it for the future

Trahan - I am blown away, I would love to take the astronomy class myself
I was in Europe and came back, introduced myself and caught up fairly quickly

Trahan - would you be using this info now or later
Doing this music course has helped me with music this year

Rohrbach - anything you experienced that you would like to see done differently or improved?
happy with everything, nothing really to change

Mullen - you took pre-calc and you are a sophomore, what are you going to do with the rest of the high school?
I can take two full years

Mullen - did you find yourself at the same level with others who took the full year course?
Yes, I did not see a difference

Ogden - As juniors, those taking this pre-calc offering will exhaust the curriculum when they are seniors. Exploring options with Dean, Framkingham St and other places to see what can be done

This was done without cost to the community and a small cost to the families. The courses can be taken anywhere on the planet that there is access to the internet. A number of folks have made this a hugh success. A number of faculty did not get the option to participate and will be able to next summer

Cafasso - what is the capacity of a course?
Light - from his pilot experience about 25-30 students to provide good feedback

? - what about the variety of student pacing and ability, how was it for the teaching?
Light - Not a completely different environment from the classroom.
Belastock - need to be aware of time differences when the testing is open and due.
Lima - ability for students to learn from other students

2 minute recess to allow for breakdown of demo

Live reporting - School Committee meeting

Committee Present: Armenio, Cafasso, Kelly, Mullen, Rohrbach, Trahan
Absent: Roy


Call to order Mrs. Mullen

Pledge of Allegiance

Moment of Silence


1. Routine Business

• Citizen’s Comments- none
  
• Review of Agenda- action item D to be removed from agenda this evening
  
• Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the September 23, 2008 School Committee Meeting. Moved to accept - approved 6-0
  
• Payment of Bills Mr. Kelly Moved to accept - approved 6-0
  
• Payroll Ms. Armenio
• FHS Student Representatives
• Correspondence: 1. Budget to Actual

Franklin School Committee Meeting - Agenda - 10/14/08

Franklin School Committee Meeting
October 14, 2008
Municipal Building – Council Chambers
7:00 P.M.

AGENDA

Call to order Mr. Roy
Pledge of Allegiance
Moment of Silence

1. Routine Business

• Citizen’s Comments
• Review of Agenda
• Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the September 23, 2008 School Committee Meeting.
• Payment of Bills Mr. Kelly
• Payroll Ms. Armenio
• FHS Student Representatives
• Correspondence: 1. Budget to Actual

2. Guests/Presentations

• Summer Blackboard
• Transportation Update

3. Discussion Only Items

• Ballot Question #1
• FY10 Budget Timeline
• Superintendent Search

4. Action Items

1. Moved that the Franklin School Committee opposes Question 1, a ballot initiative that would eliminate the state income tax. Passage of Question 1 would cut the state budget by 40%, cause massive reductions in local aid to cities and towns, and result in drastic reductions in school programs.
2. I recommend acceptance of a check for $400.00 from money left over from a community service grant awarded to 2 Remington Teachers to be used for supplies for RMS.
3. I recommend acceptance of the donation of a “Fun Hoop” for the Keller Elementary School in memory of Noreen Coffey from FPS Staff (Cost: $800.00)
4. I recommend acceptance of a check for $800.00 from the Horace Mann PCC to fund Middle School Magic at HMMS.
5. I recommend acceptance of a check for $5,000 from the Jefferson PCC for admission, buses and nurse for a field trip to Plimoth Plantation and a Grade 4 trip which has not yet been finalized.
6. I recommend acceptance of a check for $1,420.00 from the ECDC PCC to purchase a laminator for the ECDC.
7. I recommend approval of the recurring trip to Mt. Monadnock in Jaffrey, NH on October 25, 2008 for 30 students in the Remington Adventure Club.
8. I recommend acceptance of the donation of a ½ size string bass, (said value: $1,200.00), from Ms. Colleen Pierson for the Davis Thayer Elementary School Music Program.
9. I recommend acceptance of a check for $3880.50 from the Keller PCC for a 1st grade field trip to Jane & Paul’s Farm and a 3rd grade field trip to Plimoth Plantation as described on the attached form KCD-E.
10. I recommend acceptance of a check for $180.39 from Target’s Take Charge of Education Program for In-house enrichment for the Horace Mann Middle School.
11. I recommend transferring $1,268.17 from the Brick School Revolving account to the Town of Franklin.

5. Information Matters
• Superintendent’s Report

1. Enrollment Comparison (9-28-07 to 9-26-08)
2. MCAS
3. Art Gallery
4. Special Ed. Tuition Increases
5. Revolving Account

• 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

candidate orientation/parent meeting on Oct. 23

By Joyce Kelly/Daily News staff

GHS

Posted Oct 13, 2008 @ 10:52 PM

---

FRANKLIN —

After learning that organizers were canceling the Junior Miss program due to a lack of money, a local woman decided to rescue this year's competition.

"I have a 14-year-old daughter (Jordan) who can't wait to do Junior Miss ... in the year 2013," said Jill M. Bedoya, who took part in a competition here in 1988 and served on Junior Miss committees at both the town and state levels.

"I stepped forward to offer my services to run this year's program so there were no girls left without the opportunity to participate in and experience a Junior Miss program. Junior Miss has been a part of my family for many, many years. My father, Tom Mercer and my aunt, Raye Lynn Mercer, ran the Franklin program for about 10 years, prior to taking over the Massachusetts state program, which they both ran for years. I grew up with Junior Miss," Bedoya said.

She refused to let the 40-year-old program, open strictly to Franklin High School senior girls, cease.

Many people put the program together, she said, and they just needed a little support.

"I have lots of contacts and I'm trying to use my coordination abilities to give the Franklin committee some support," she said.

Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here

WHY VOTE NO TO THE INCOME TAX PROPOSAL?

WHY VOTE NO TO THE INCOME TAX PROPOSAL?

The income tax question on the ballot this fall is a reckless proposal that will have severe and immediate consequences for all of us. This binding referendum will take more than $12 billion—nearly 40 percent—out of the state budget, driving up local property taxes and leading to drastic cuts in services. Our communities will suffer sweeping education cuts, steep reductions in public safety personnel and further deterioration of roads and bridges. Times are hard enough. Let’s not make them worse.

Here is what we know

• The income tax proposal will cost the Commonwealth more than $12 billion in revenues
• That’s 40 percent of the state budget
• This is a binding proposal that will become law effective January 1, 2009

This reckless proposal will:

• Drive up local property taxes
• Have dire consequences for our communities, putting:
  • Education at risk with:
    • Larger class sizes
    • Fewer afterschool programs
    • More school closings
  • Health care at risk for:
    • Seniors
    • Working families
    • People with disabilities
  • Public safety at risk with:
    • Fewer emergency response personnel
    • Longer 911 wait times
    • Fewer police officers and firefighters
  • Our infrastructure at risk with:
    • Unsafe bridges
    • Broken roads and more potholes
    • Cuts in service to public transportation
• Put our fragile economy and job market at even greater risk

What to do about it

1. Pledge to VOTE NO
2. Sign up for email from VoteNoMA.com to stay informed. You can do that here. As volunteer opportunities arise we will contact you.
3. Tell your friends and family to VOTE NO. Let them know that you think this is a reckless and bad idea. Send them to VoteNoMa.com and ask them to learn more and sign up to help as well.

Times are hard enough. Let’s not make them worse.

This info came from the folks at Vote NO on Question 1

"The mirror simply slid down the wall"

By Joyce Kelly/Daily News staff

Milford Daily News

Posted Oct 13, 2008 @ 12:32 AM

Last update Oct 13, 2008 @ 12:33 AM

---

FRANKLIN —

Even after a century, members of the philanthropic Ray family may still be hanging around their old haunts, according to staff at Dean College.

Workers at Ray House, which serves as the school's admissions office, and several staff members, including Vice President of Enrollment Jay Leiendecker, have reported encounters with spirits they believe are Ray family members. The house was their former home, built in the 1800s.

Sensing a spirit, or seeing a shadow flash by is not rare at Ray House, Leiendecker said.

"It's not once every so many years - there's definitely a spirit living in the house," he said, adding, "Nothing bad has happened."

In fact, if the otherworldly inhabitants are members of the Ray family, he said they're probably quite friendly ghosts, because they were incredibly charitable people in life.

Although encounters are common, they can still be startling.

"We had window-washing crews come here on weekends, and a man was washing the window inside and out one Saturday," Leiendecker said, pointing to his tall office window overlooking the campus, "and he apparently went screaming for the hills after he saw ... something."

Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here

More home heating saving tips

Today's Sunday Globe covers a number of the same home energy saving tips covered in the presentation at the Franklin Public Library this past Monday evening. The graphical depiction of the savings in the online edition is not the same as the graphic that appears in the print version. It leaves off the dollar savings and payback periods. You'll need to read the full article to find that info.

Read the full article in the Boston Globe here

The presentation from the Library session earlier this week can be found here.

"We ask them virtually to perform miracles"

The Framingham and Franklin school systems face a common problem - the need to hire a new superintendent - but they're looking to solve it in different ways.

They're among at least 11 school systems in the region that have either hired new district leaders in the past year or are in the process of doing so. Some, like Franklin, have sought to nurture internal talent and hire from within the school district. Others, like Framingham, have put out a nationwide call for applications.

Both approaches reflect a desire to hire the best leaders from what area school officials say is a shrinking pool of candidates for a growing number of openings.

Just last week, Shrewsbury's longtime superintendent, Anthony Bent, announced he will be retiring at the end of the academic year.

Bent, who has headed Shrewsbury's system for 15 years, said the School Committee will search for his successor both inside and outside the district, casting a broad net in order to "have the best potential pool to choose from."

Thomas Scott, executive director of the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents, said there have been between 50 and 60 superintendent vacancies in each of the last five years, up from fewer than 10 annual openings a decade ago. Each open slot used to draw 75 or more applications, whereas school districts are now lucky to get 20 applications, he said.

Read the full article in the Boston Sunday Globe West section here

Parking fees increase at MBTA

The MBTA's oversight board voted yesterday to raise parking rates by $2 at all of its lots and garages beginning Nov. 15 as part of a plan to pay back wages owed to union employees.

For many daily riders, the increase will have the same effect as a $10-per-week fare increase, or about $500 per year. Rates currently vary, from $1 per day at ferry yards, to $2 at commuter rail station lots, up to as much as $5 at the four most expensive garages.

"That's doubling it," said Margie Katz, a record supervisor at the University of Massachusetts at Boston who takes the commuter rail to work from the Campello station in Brockton, where daily rates had been $2. "It will be an extreme hardship."

Read the full article here in the Boston Globe

"It's really depressing"

By Joyce Kelly/Daily News staff

GHS

Posted Oct 10, 2008 @ 10:10 PM

Last update Oct 10, 2008 @ 10:53 PM

---

MILFORD —

Calling the global economic crisis and financial pressure "the perfect storm" for taxpayers to pass Question 1, which repeals the state income tax on Nov. 4, legislators implored local politicians to rally against it.

"If it passes, we can pretty much shut our doors and go home," said Rep. John V. Fernandes, D-Milford, during a legislative breakfast with the Massachusetts Municipal Association at the Milford Senior Center yesterday.

"We can't sit back on such an important question. The cynicism that drives this means we have to explain to people the seriousness of the consequences. I know people who tend to vote for this who work for local government," Fernandes said.

Fernandes, state Sen. Richard Moore, D-Uxbridge, Ashland Assistant Town Manager/Finance Director Mark Purple, and Douglas Executive Director Michael Guzinski, along with others at the forum, believe the question has a very good chance of passing, and it scares them.

Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here

"some people are just self-centered and narrow-minded"

By Joyce Kelly/Daily News staff

GHS

Posted Oct 10, 2008 @ 10:34 PM

Last update Oct 10, 2008 @ 10:41 PM

---

FRANKLIN —

Neighbors are rallying to save a nearby colony of feral cats, contacting national animal rights organizations after learning Highwood Condominiums' board of trustees plans to trap and euthanize them.

Animal Control officers Cindy Souza and Tracey Holmes say the feral cats' feeding station, which they set up with Purr-fect Cat Shelter of Medway in nearby woods is on state land where trapping is prohibited.

"We've kind of stepped back ... It's really up to the people to stand up to the association at this point," Holmes said.

And they are.

Resident Leslie McShane contacted Best Friends Animal Society in Kanab, Utah, to bring attention to the situation.

"I thought they should know what goes on in small towns that want to euthanize their problems ... instead of reaching out to the community to try and find homes for the feral cats or try to relocate the colony to a friendlier area that they can all survive in," McShane said.

Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here

Question 1 effect on Franklin

Check out these editorials from around the state.

• Tax repeal would result in chaos The Springfield Republican
• Income tax repeal would create chaos Worcester Telegram and Gazette
• For fiscal sanity, no on Question 1 The Boston Herald
• This question is not the answer The Boston Globe
• Reality of Question 1 The Berkshire Eagle
• A ridiculous idea The Cape Cod Times
• Taxes and tactics South Coast Today
• Eliminating income tax is madness The Patriot Ledger

Check out the facts provided here for the effects on Franklin

Or click here to make your own navigation amongst the communities in our Commonwealth of Massachusetts to see the effect if Question 1 passes.

Please don't be swayed by something that sounds too good to be true. You know what happens then, something bad!

"We plan for the worst, hoping it never happens"

By Joyce Kelly/Daily News staff

GHS

Posted Oct 08, 2008 @ 11:38 PM

---

MILFORD —

Just outside Milford Regional Medical Center, men covered from head to toe in protective suits, gloves, rubber boots and breathing apparatus had already decontaminated several victims of a mock terrorist attack when Fire. Lt. Patrick Salmon got a message over his walkie-talkie.

A voice on the other end said the state was reporting: "It may be a terror attack with sarin gas," a nerve agent used in chemical warfare.

Around 7:35 p.m., 55 minutes into a drill mimicking a terrorist incident on a commuter train arriving in Franklin, emergency workers were prepping the third and final victim to bring to the hospital.

"So far, it's good. It's dark out, so we had some issues until we got the lights set up, but now we can keep taking patients" if necessary, Salmon said.

Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here

"members worried about the safety of students, faculty and staff "

By Joyce Kelly/Daily News staff

Milford Daily News

Posted Oct 09, 2008 @ 12:54 AM

---

FRANKLIN —

The Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School's board of trustees last week voted to rent the historic Red Brick School from the town for one year.

"I'm feeling very good about it. I've been a strong proponent on using the building," said John Neas, president of the charter school's board.

Neas said the school faces a critical need for space in its building, which he estimated to be about 35,000 square feet.

"We use every inch of space available to us. We have 416 students and a waiting list of 200 students we can't accommodate," Neas said, noting that the board is looking for another school site. (In the best scenario, he said, they might have a new building in five years.)

And every weekday afternoon, charter school students and staff must vacate the building so that St. Mary's Church, which owns the building, can hold religious ed classes there, Neas said.

"That means our school dismisses at 3:10, and we have from 3:10 to 3:45 for after-school activities. That creates some issues for us," he said.

"This is a possibility for us in terms of having space to do those types of things," Neas said.

Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here

Fiscal 2010 will be "a very challenging year"

By Joyce Kelly/Daily News staff

GHS

Posted Oct 07, 2008 @ 10:44 PM

---

FRANKLIN —

In keeping with the same financial forecasts given over the last year, Town Administrator Jeffrey D. Nutting last night told the Finance Committee he anticipates fiscal 2010 will be "a very challenging year."

"Local receipts aren't going to bounce back quickly. Everything is tightening and tightening and tightening," Nutting said in the first Finance Committee meeting of the new fiscal year.

His biggest concern for the fiscal '10 budget is whether there will be a reduction in state aid, he said.

Nutting does not believe Franklin will be "as revenue-rich" as last year, he said, noting that the town's fuel, pensions and insurance costs will continue to escalate, outpacing revenue.

The town will bid for a new electric energy contract this spring, "another big exposure," Nutting said.

Read the full story in the Milford Daily News here

Energy $ense - presentation

With many thanks to Fred Schlicher for sharing the PowerPoint presentation he used Monday night (10/6/08) at the Library for his talk on Energy $ense.

Energy $ense Saving on Home Energy Bills - Oct 2008

View SlideShare presentation or Upload your own. (tags: energy savings)

Thank you Fred!

Many thanks to the Friends of Franklin Library and the Franklin Area Climate Team for sponsoring this event!


You can review my notes taken during the presentation here

Andro's Pizza - preparing to open

Some progress was observed on our walk about town this weekend. A new sign for Andro's Pizza is up. There are indications of getting ready but the ladder observed in the window says there is still work being done to prepare for the opening.





Enjoy!

Franklin School Personnel Reductions 2003-2009: updated

In the preparations for the Override Vote in June, I had prepared this slideshow with the help of information from the School Department and careful review by some School Committee members. With the Override finalized, the adjustments to staffing levels complete, I thought it would be good to go back and update the numbers to ensure that this record will be available.

The override in June was probably not the last one Franklin will vote on. Hence the need for keeping the numbers current and accurate.

Franklin MA School budget reductions - Updated

View SlideShare presentation or Upload your own. (tags: school dept)

The earlier version of this can be found here

"Yeah, there are things you can do"

By Joyce Kelly/Daily News staff

GHS

Posted Oct 07, 2008 @ 12:02 AM

---

FRANKLIN —

Saving cash on energy can be as simple as choosing a conventional television over its plasma counterpart, which is three to four times pricier, said Fred Schlicher.

Residential energy use, which accounts for about 20 percent of all energy consumption in the United States, is "a near and dear subject to us, " Schlicher said, particularly this winter, when "we may be facing energy prices twice as high as last year."

Schlicher, a program manager for Massachusetts Climate Action Network, offered tips on cutting home energy bills and suggested resources for improving energy efficiency in the first of a four-part climate series at the public library, attended by about 40 people last night.

Some of the top energy-suckers at home: appliances and lighting (20 percent), water heating (16 percent), space heating (60 percent), and refrigerators, particularly those more than 10 years old (no statistic given), Schlicher said.

He recommended using a "Kill-A-Watt" meter, which costs about $30, to identify "very quickly" which appliances use the most electricity at home.

"You plug it into the wall and see what the big users of electricity are; it's a great monitor," Schlicher said.

read the full article in the Milford Daily News here

read my live reporting summaries here

Museum construction progress

Since the last picture: the columns have been replaced, a fresh coat of paint applied, new entrance steps/landing almost complete.







Have you been observing the changes? Did I miss something?

Energy $ense - meeting summary

• Live reporting - Energy $ense - clean power
• Live reporting - Energy $ense - NationalGrid
• Live reporting - Energy $ense - heating, cooling t...
• Live reporting - Energy $ense - behavioral, hot wa...
• Live reporting - Energy $ense - intro/overview
• Live reporting - Energy $ense - before meeting

Live reporting - Energy $ense - clean power

buy clean power

• support renewable energy in MA
• sign up for NationalGrid's GreenUp Program

cleanernergychoice.org

Look for the post card in your next bill! Should be in the October bill.

Live reporting - Energy $ense - NationalGrid

Windows

• longer payback
• standard double-glaze only R-3
• triple glaze R-5

consider using window quilts


Gerry Hanna, from NationalGrid

Masssave, a collaboration funded with the conservation charge on each of our utility bills

You can call for an energy audit. The auditor will take about 2 hours to go through the house with you. The printout will prioritize the opportunities according to the energy savings projected by the audit.

Will do less audits but more implementation work. Will pay 75% up to $2000 if qualified for thermal work

"You need to want to do something but now is the time to do so."

"Audits are already scheduled through January, call now and they will honor the request after March 2009 when the offer expires."

The education is available on the Massave website. They'll need your zipcode and primary heating method (oil, gas).