Friday, November 27, 2009

In the News - Anchorage Road, thanks for health

The Anchorage Road construction meeting is covered in the newspaper here



Franklin road to be redone





Thursday, November 26, 2009

Thanks for the art and music

As Thanksgiving Day dawns, kitchens will fill with sweet smelling foods, families and friends will gather for diner and conversation. Let's give thanks for the art and artists amongst us.

Last Thursday was another Third Thursday celebration by the Franklin Downtown Partnership. Emma's Quilt Cupboard took the lead this time. It was time to showcase the talents of some men with sewing skills.

Leon Leon Guerrero did this forest theme quilt.

ThirdThursday_Emma's Quilt 1

Look closely at the dark border and you'll see the white thread stitched to pick up the canoe paddle pattern.

ThirdThursday_Emma's Quilt 2

Dana Ryan did this quilt to tell the story of the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

ThirdThursday_Emma's Quilt 3

Note the detail stitching to show a topographical pattern like a map.

ThirdThursday_Emma's Qult 5

Note the color and shape arrangements

ThirdThursday_Emma's Quilt 4

Over at Jane's Frames, another kind of art, amongst the works framed and to be framed, Kai Olsson played guitar and sang

ThirdThursday_Kai Olsson

Sitting amongst the backsides of some art, he played frontman very well!

ThirdThursday_Kai Olsson

There won't be a Third Thursday in December but there will be a Holiday Stroll. Thursday, December 3rd from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. From Dean College throughout the downtown area, there will be plenty to do for all members of the family.

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Have a most Happy Thanksgiving!

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Thanks for outstanding students at FHS

Continuing the theme of giving thanks this week for all we have, here is the photo from the School Committee meeting last week with two outstanding Franklin High School seniors getting MASS Excellence Awards in Math.

SchCom_MASS_Awards

Left to right: Principal Peter Light, Kimberly Takahata, Christopher Anderson, School Committee Chair Jeff Roy and School Superintendent Maureen Sabolinski

The photo was also added to the live reported meeting notes


Holiday Stroll, Dec 3rd from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Franklin, MA – ‘Twas the month before Christmas and the Franklin Downtown Partnership decided to throw a holiday party in downtown Franklin, and more than 35 businesses decided to join the fun!

The Partnership will officially kick off the holiday season with the Holiday Stroll on Thursday, December 3, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A tree lighting ceremony, a visit from Santa and some of his elves, music, art and holiday treats are all part of the fun planned for revelers both downtown and around Franklin this year. Visitors can follow a trail of luminaries that light the downtown and each participating business will have a map detailing what special events and treats are being offered.

The Stroll starts at Dean College at 4:30 with a holiday tree lighting ceremony in front of Dean Hall. Enjoy free hot chocolate and plenty of singing to kick off the season.

The highlights of the evening will be an appearance by Santa at Simon’s Furniture on Summer Street from 5:00 to 7:00, while Santa’s elves will be at ARTBEAT from 4:00 to 6:00. Carolers will entertain the crowds by singing favorite seasonal songs as they stroll through the streets. Radio station 103.3 WODS FM, Boston ’s holiday music specialist, will ring in the cheer by broadcasting its festive blend of holiday favorites at the patio on East Central Street .

At Café Dolce, the coffee will be hot and the music will be playing as local artists from the Franklin Art Association set up their easels for a colorful night of painting. “Stop by, grab a cappuccino and watch local artists create paintings right in front of your eyes,” says Sue Sheridan, president of the association.

Residents are also invited to shop the new Handmade Crafts Gallery at Artbeat. The gallery features original art, unique jewelry and gifts created by local artist and will be open throughout December. “Artists will be on hand from 6:00 to 8:00 to talk about their art,” says owner Jan Whitted.

Visitors can see framed calligraphic art on exhibit at five locations downtown, including Jane’s Frames, Emma’s Quilt Cupboard, Franklin Center Commons ReMax Realty, Rockland Trust and Artbeat. Jane’s Frames will host an artists’ reception that evening, showcasing artwork by calligraphic artists who are members of Masscribes, a Massachusetts-based calligraphy guild.

“The Franklin Downtown Partnership created the Holiday Stroll to give everyone in the area another reason to come downtown and connect with our community,” says Lisa Piana, the partnership’s executive director and the organizer of the Stroll.  “In order to have a vibrant downtown, our stores and business owners need residents to eat, shop and spend time in Franklin .  These types of events are fun and hopefully remind residents to come downtown.

“We have many generous sponsors who make putting on events like the Holiday Stroll possible,” adds Piana.  “These events add so much to the community and we are very fortunate to have so much interest. The Partnership would love for the Holiday Stroll to become an annual event like the Harvest Festival.”

Holiday Stroll revelers will find maps at each participating business to help them navigate all the specials at the downtown and surrounding retailers.

On East Central Street, those businesses include:

A Cut Above Hair and Nails
, which has relocated to 56 E. Central St, will have cider and refreshments from 4:00 to 8:00. They will give 20% off cuts for new customers and complimentary eye and lip waxing for new and existing customers that night.

Party Paints and Pottery
will pass out their favorite holiday cookie, complete with a recipe card, to all visitors.

Café Dolce will offer coffee, holiday treats, live music and art demonstrations.

Jane’s Frames will be throwing a party with live music and refreshments. Enter a free raffle for a framed Patriot’s panoramic print and get a coupon worth 15% off framing in January. Stroll in and enjoy free samples from Tastefully Simple’s gourmet food collection.

H & R Block will hand out holiday treats and treat visitors to a free “Forward Looks” tax checkup and free “Second Looks” of prior years’ returns. Visitors can also enter to win a free tax return.

Sarapaan will have a holiday sale featuring 20% off all handcrafted jewelry (excluding custom designs). Get holiday presents for your loved ones or treat yourself.

ReMax Realty
invites downtown residents to meet and greet each other at its open house, where cheese and crackers and beverages will help to ring in the holiday season.

On Main Street:

Berry Insurance will give away hot chocolate to help warm holiday revelers.  Strollers are also invited to enter a raffle for a free gift basket.

Fitness Together
will serve fresh fruit and healthy holiday smoothies.

Hair @ Nail It invites visitors to enjoy hot cocoa while they get a free Christmas polish change.

Emma’s Quilt Cupboard
invites visitors to stop in and discover unique, hand-made gifts for the holidays. Come see a selection of quilts, wall hangings, table runners and baby quilts at their annual sample sale, going on the first two weeks of December.

The Spotlight Shop will invite patrons to enter a raffle to win two premium tickets to an FPAC holiday show of their choice:  either Nutcracker or Humbug!

The Franklin School for Performing Arts invites visitors to stop by the studios and watch performances in the recital hall throughout the evening. There will be three different performances you won’t want to miss.

Facial Rejuvenation
will give out free Jane Iredale Lip Drink SPF 15. This SPF zinc oxide broad spectrum lip balm has a macadamia nut oil base (not petroleum), antioxidants, green tea and vitamins C and E, and the flavor is a mix of lemon and orange oils.

Pisani Shoes invites everyone to come shop for new holiday shoes and enjoy Mr. Pisani’s private art work on display.

Craig Roberts Studio will give out a free $25 gift certificate for a studio portrait. The certificate can be used for family, extended family and children’s portraits.

On West Central Street:

Hair Mania will offer a free holiday gift and 10% off all hair products.

The Fire Station will be holding a Holiday Fire Safety Expo and handing out holiday treats. Come learn safety tips on candles and Christmas trees lights.

On Cottage Street:

Franklin Pizza and Deli
suggests stopping in for dinner after the tree lighting. Buy any large pizza and get a small cheese pizza free.

On Summer Street:

Simon’s Furniture invites families to meet Santa and receive a holiday treat. Visitors can also enter a raffle for a Free 19-inch flat screen LCD HD TV!

ArtBeat Your Creativity Store Kids can help Santa’s elves make glittery holiday ornaments for free. They can also make gifts for family and friends starting at $10. From 6:00 to 8:00 the store will host a reception for the Handmade Craft Gallery.

Salon Sorella
invites everyone to come in and warm up with a cup of cocoa and start their holiday shopping with 15% off the purchase of gift cards.

Around Franklin

CVS Pharmacy will continue the holiday fun at both locations. Stop in for free product sample gifts.

Shades In Place
, located at 76 Grove Street , will throw an Open House that evening and give 15% off plus free installation to anyone who stops by.

DCU - Federal Credit Union
invites holiday shoppers to stop in for a free cup of coffee, tea or a checking account. DCU will also hand out candy at Simons Furniture during Santa’s visit.

Other participating businesses include:  Itch’s Stitches, Pretty Is Pink, Vallee’s Jewelers, Rick’s Restaurant, Rome Restaurant, Bamboo House, Central Pizza and Isabella’s Groceria. Stop by and enjoy some holiday treats!

Silver sponsors for this event are NHS Print, Middlesex Savings Bank, Rockland Trust and DG Ranieri Supply Company.  Bronze sponsors include Artbeat Your Creativity Store, CVS Pharmacy, Ficco’s Bowladrome, Rome Restaurant, Laura Lowe/Coldwell Banker, the United Regional Chamber of Commerce and Digital Federal Credit Union.

For more information on this event contact Executive Director Lisa Piana at downtown.franklin@yahoo.com or (774) 571-3109. The Franklin Downtown Partnership is a non-profit organization whose primary mission is the revitalization of downtown Franklin . The FDP believes that a vibrant downtown is key to the economic success of the town of Franklin , and it organizes events like the Holiday Stroll to promote awareness and help the town prosper. For more information visit www.franklin.ma.us Community Links.



In the News - Fire dept, James Johnston

Additional info on the just announced stimulus grant received by the Franklin Fire Dept

Franklin firefighters appreciate grant

from The Milford Daily News Homepage RSS 

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And the biweekly essay from James Johnston

JAMES JOHNSTON: There is much to be thankful for

from The Milford Daily News Homepage RSS 



Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Thanks for student artists

As we approach Thanksgiving Day, we should recognize how much we have to be grateful for. When Gallery 218 opened its doors last Tuesday for the K-12 exhibit on Portraits, the crowd was impressive. I was able to get some photos, chat with Art Director Mike Caple, Art Teacher Jane Hogan, and then head over to the School Committee meeting.

Gallery218: Portraits 1

According to Jane, twelve teachers had about 10-15 students each with pieces in the show. Across the district, K-12 that calculates to about 150 students represented.

Gallery218: Portraits 2

These are portraits. The students could have done them of themselves or of someone else.

Gallery218: Portraits 3

A portrait represents a point of view of the world.

Gallery218: Portraits 4

A portrait raises questions about the point of view.

Gallery218: Portraits 5

When you recognize and accept different points of view, you can begin to talk.

Gallery218: Portraits 6

As I walked down the corridor to leave Franklin High, a family was coming in. I overheard the gentleman saying "I haven't been in this place in 32 years!"

I think we can be thankful that art helped to bring this gentleman back into FHS.

The Portrait show at Gallery 218 will be open until January 15. Take some time to view the students work. You will be glad you did.

Note: as a practicing photographer, my own viewpoint is imposed upon the viewer by my taking these photos. Art is really meant to be experienced in person. I hope you do take the time to go.

In the News: stimulus, Seniors

Stimulus money comes to Fire Depts, including 135,537 for Franklin.

Area fire departments get a boost from federal stimulus dollars

from The Milford Daily News Homepage RSS


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Oak St students meet with Seniors

Talking 'bout our generations

from The Milford Daily News News RSS



Monday, November 23, 2009

thanks for the holiday decorations

Thanks to the Franklin Downtown Partnership for the holiday decorations throughout downtown

Grey Monday  holiday decorations up  a whole lot to be thankful for this week!


Franklin Express Line

The new Express Line is now available. If you have not already subscribed to receive this directly via email, I would encourage you to do so.

The subscription form is available on the Town website here

To see what this new Express line looks like, here it is:

Discover Simple, Private Sharing at Drop.io

For Franklin Matters email subscribers you will need to click through to the web site to view this document.
http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/

Franklin, MA

Sunday, November 22, 2009

Open Space/Recreation Plan Update

The Open Space & Recreation Plan presentation document was added to the Town Council notes for Wednesday's meeting. To save you going back to look, it is also here:



Curriki - collaborative open source curriculum

For the education community amongst us, this site I recently found seems to be quite good. It's about page tells us:
Curriki is more than your average website; we're a community of educators, learners and committed education experts who are working together to create quality materials that will benefit teachers and students around the world.
Curriki is an online environment created to support the development and free distribution of world-class educational materials to anyone who needs them. Our name is a play on the combination of 'curriculum' and 'wiki' which is the technology we're using to make education universally accessible.
Curriki is built on the XWiki platform, an open source development platform and "Next Generation Wiki" application developed in Java and released the LGPL open source license.
Curriki is a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation.
Go explore Curriki here


Saturday, November 21, 2009

Links to share

I have some catching up to do with so much happening around so I'll tease you with a quote and a link to follow.

1 - Instant messaging in the classroom:
Every single upper junior class that I have taught has loved instant messaging (IM). It is probably the most popular use of technology at home. But does that mean it needs to be used in the classroom? It falls into the same category as console gaming does and seems to spark differing reactions from people in education. I believe it can engage learners and much more.

2 - Free options to publish to the web
In the course of a school year, most teachers will have students produce written content that they think should be shared with other readers. Other times teachers create writing projects with the goal of having students share their work publicly. The web offers many ways to publish written work, the following are six of my favorite free options.

3 - Guide to talk with your kids about being online
On Guard Online offers a fifty-four page PDF guide to talking with kids about being online. Net Cetera: Chatting With Kids About Being Online offers numerous suggestions for having conversations with students about online behaviors. The guide offers differentiated suggestions based upon the age of the children with which you're talking.

4 -What you should know about the flu.
This week Commissioner Auerbach and DPH Medical Director Dr. Lauren Smith appeared on a special addition of Hopkinton Community Television’s "Physician Focus" titled "The Flu: What You Should Know."

Commissioner Auerbach and Dr. Smith joined Erin Tracy, M.D., an obstetrician-gynecologist at Massachusetts General Hospital and Vice Chair of the Massachusetts Section of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and Bruce Karlin, M.D., a primary care physician in Worcester and Vice Chair of the Medical Society’s Communications Committee to discuss important flu related topics including the difference between H1N1 (swine) flu and seasonal flu, vaccine safety and supply, how to protect against the infections, and what to do if you get sick.

"Physician Focus" is The Massachusetts Medical Society’s monthly educational program on health care. In addition to being distributed to local public access television stations across the Commonwealth, the program is available for viewing online at http://www.hcam.tv/series/physicianfocus/flu/index.shtml. This page also contains two public service announcements produced specifically for the show. The first contains messages about the flu for pregnant women and the second provides guidelines on when patients should go to the emergency room.
Click through to view the show on the web here

Franklin did a similar H1N1 update in September and you can view that here

5 - And finally, the Laughter Club meets on Monday
Relieve some of your holiday stress, attend The Let's Laugh Today monthly laughter club that meets at the First Universalist Society in Franklin Meetinghouse, 262 Chestnut St. in Franklin, on Monday, Nov. 23, 7:15 to 8:30 p.m.
Additional details can be found on the Franklin Gazette here

Cute sign at Davis Thayer School

The sign says it all:

Electronics and Appliance Recycle Day

What: Electronic and Appliance Recycle Day

When: Saturday, Nov 28th 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Where: St. Mary's

Cost: Varies by item


Electronic and appliance recycle day to be held at Saint Mary's Church, One Church Square, Franklin, MA on Saturday November 28th from 9a.m. t0 2 p.m. We are accepting all electronics for recycling to include monitors, fax machines, modems, TV's etc as well as all appliances to include refrigerators, washers, dryers, stoves, water tanks etc. This is a great opportunity to reduce the carbon footprint in the environment and recycle your unwanted items. We will also accept lawn mowers and snow blowers with the gas removed as well as exercise equipment. This is a fund raiser and there will be a small fee of $5 per electronic item, $10 for each TV or appliance and $20 for each large wood console TV. There will be receipts provided as well. Car and truck batteries as well as cell phones are free.

Phone:  508-277-6728
Organization:   Saint Mary's Church



Friday, November 20, 2009

4th Annual Casino Night - tonight!

On Friday, November 20, 2009, the Franklin Education Foundation (FEF) will hold its 4th Annual Casino Night at the Franklin Elks from 7:00 to 11:00 p.m. The event will feature Black Jack, Roulette and Money Wheel as well as raffles, a Silent Auction, cash bar and FREE hors d’oeuvres. The event is well known as a fun evening out with friends and neighbors, all while contributing to a worthwhile cause.

In addition to having fun at the gaming tables, attendees can bid on a variety of great Silent Auction items. Included will be autographed Red Sox and Patriots memorabilia, handcrafted jewelry, original art, and gift certificates from 3 Restaurant, Panera Bread, Stop & Shop and Arbonne Skin Care. Preliminary sponsors for the event include DCU (Digital Federal Credit Union), Rockland Trust, Doherty Ciechanowski, Dugan & Cannon, PC and ZeptoMetrix Corporation. If you have an item to donate or if your company is interested in sponsoring, contact FEF. It’s a great way to show your commitment to education in Franklin.

Admission is $25. To avoid waiting in line at the door, advance ticket purchase is recommended. For ticket purchase, auction donation or sponsorship information, please contact Peter Minor at (508) 541-6700 or peter@peterminor.com. Cash only accepted for chip purchase. Checks and Visa/MC accepted for Silent Auction items. For more information visit www.franklined.org.

Since 1997, The Franklin Education Foundation events have raised well over $170,000 which has been distributed to Franklin public schools in the form of special grants. All Franklin Public School staff members are eligible to submit creative, innovative ideas for programs or activities that would not traditionally be funded by tax dollars. To see a list of programs FEF have funded over the years, visit www.franklined.org.

Discover Simple, Private Sharing at Drop.io




In the News - Senior Center, downtown

Franklin Senior Center holds first anniversary party

from The Milford Daily News Homepage RSS



Help beautify Franklin's downtown this weekend







In the News - baseball rules

Under existing rules, players are grouped by age: for example: third-graders who are born after May 1 must play with second-graders. Under the new rules, parents would be given a one-time option to play in groups based on age or school grade. For example: parents of a third-grader, usually around 9 years old, born between May 1 and Aug. 31, may choose to let him move to play with fourth-graders or stay with third-graders for another season.

The committee said a change in the rules would make kids feel included and improve their social and playing skills.

Some of the problems of a change, Ayotte said, would be in administering the new rules. A change could weaken a league that is losing players to the next higher level, he said. Young players could lose an additional playing year by moving up, he said.

A change could also prevent the organization from ever being able to affiliate with the Little League which has age cutoffs.
 Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here




Thursday, November 19, 2009

3rd Thursday - Men's Night Out


"Men's Night Out"
Ladies are welcome
Thursday, November 19th

5:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Host for November:  Emma's Quilt Cupboard & Sewing Machines
12 Main Street

Emma's will showcase quilts made strictly by men. "We invite everyone to join us for a visual display of men's creativity and enjoy some refreshments"  says Cyndi Rich, owner of the quilt shop.

Other 3rd Thursday happenings:

Artbeat Your Creativity Store will host a reception to introduce "Handmade for the Holidays," a craft gallery featuring the work of local artisans and demos for unique holiday gifts that easily can be made by children and adults. Artbeat is located at 9 Summer Street.

Stop by Café Dolce, 17 East Central Street,  will host a gold buying event: Bring in your unwanted gold, silver, platinum, gemstones and diamonds and our experts in the jewelry industry tell you what it's worth and pay you on the spot. Check out the Café Dolce webpage for more information.

Facial Rejuvenation at 11 Main Street will offer 20 percent off all Jane Iredale mineral cosmetics. "Jane Iredale is the gold standard in minerals recognized by dermatologists, plastic surgeons and skin care professionals around the world" says owner Kathleen Ronzio.

Franklin Pizza, 18 Cottage Street, will offer a free 2-liter soda with purchase of a large pizza with one or more toppings.

Jane's Frames, 11 East Central Street, will display new etchings just in time for the holidays. Owner Jane Curran encourages shoppers to come in either ahead of time or during Third Thursday to create a wish list in anticipation of the Holiday Stroll on December 3. Kai Olsson will play guitar and refreshments, including "fruit of the vine," will be served.

Hair at Nail It, 20 Main Street, invites shoppers to help celebrate their 15th anniversary with a complimentary wash and blow dry. They will also give a $10 coupon for all new customers.

Pretty Is Pink, 9 Summer Street, invites women and teens to stop in for an evening of leisurely shopping. "After the menu is set, we want you to look your best for Thanksgiving," says owner Lori Rosenberg.  

Simon's Furniture, 8 Summer Street, will offer a 20 percent discount off all lamps, pictures and accessories on Third Thursday to help shoppers get their homes ready for the holidays.

The Franklin Downtown Partnership is gearing up for a special event in place of the December Third Thursday.  The Holiday Stroll will be Thursday, December 3 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.  A tree lighting, music Holiday Carolers, Santa, a Craft fair and 30 downtown businesses offering treats and special offers are just some of the fun planned for families that evening.
 
Get more details at each participating business

So much is happening Downtown/Uptown Franklin
Come join the Fun!
Fall Third Thursday

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About Franklin Downtown Partnership
The Franklin Downtown Partnership is a commuity based 501 (c) 3 organization, with a  mission of revitalizing our downtown, helping to make Franklin a better place to live, work, and shop, and  improving the overall  life of our community.

Post Office Box 413
Franklin, Massachusetts 02038
Franklin Downtown Partnership


Town Council Mtg Smry 11/18/09

The collection of live reporting posts from the Town Council meeting on Weds 11/18/09 are






In the News - bylaw, aid cuts

Director Bryan Taberner and Assistant Town Planner Nick Alfieri told council the proposed amendment is meant to define and clarify acceptable home occupations.
"We haven't totally changed this, we basically changed the format and some of the words so it's more enforceable," Alfieri said.
The amendment defines a home occupation as a "home-based (business) owned and operated by a full-time resident of a single- or two-family house which can be conducted without the need for a commercial space."

Franklin officials pose home business revision

from The Milford Daily News News RSS



Milford superintendent Robert Tremblay and Franklin superintendent Maureen Sabolinski both said they make "conservative" estimates in their budgets for reimbursements. Neither district was significantly affected by the circuit breaker cuts.





BOOSTERS PUCK DROP BASH

FHS Boys Hockey Booster Club


Tickets are NOW ON SALE for the BOOSTERS PUCK DROP BASH! 


Cost is $20 per person. 


We decided to change things up this year and replace Comedy Night with a social event. The night will include: DJ Bobby Costello, fabulous raffle items, cash bar, appetizers & dessert. 


The fundraiser will be held on FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4th at the Franklin Elks, 1077 Pond St from 7pm-midnight. 


Please contact Gina Williams at gw13@comcast.net or any Booster member for tickets. 


We hope to see you on December 4th!! For more info, visit www.fhspantherhockey.org




Anchorage Road

Public Informational Meeting - Anchorage Road Reconstruction

A public informational meeting will will be held in the Town Council Chambers on Tuesday, November 24, 2009 at 6:30 pm. This meeting will cover the reconstruction and timetable for the project. If you need additional information, please feel free to contact me at (508) 553-5520.

Robert A. Cantoreggi
Director of Public Works



Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Live reporting - Closing

New business


Kelly - open hours for Franklin residents, Friday's 9:00 - 11:00 AM

Powderly - update a booklet on what money is available for emergency funds for citizens

Pfeffer - Can we get an accounting on free cash for last year and this year? I would have thought free cash would have been less under the tight budget we have had.
Nutting - there are two factors, one from town budgets that haven't used all their allocated amounts but also from additional revenues that may have been under forecasted.


Zollo - If this class is emblematic of the education being provided to the students at FHS, then the high school is doing well for our students.


Pfeffer - Walgreens is coming along, they are going to maintain it.
Nutting - Yes, they own it, we have an easement to it. They will maintain it.


Jones - FEF Casino fund raiser on Friday night, a great cause
Dec 8th special state primary election 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
The full election will be on Jan 19th for the US Senate spot to replace Sen Kennedy.


McGann  - I saw 5 coyotes in my yard before coming up to the meeting.

Live reporting - Administrators Report

Likely to come back with some budget cuts, Veterans budget is running short, we'll need to front money for the special elections, we will likely get reimbursed for this.


To address the East Street water issue, there are iron water mains in the area. The water is safe to drink.


With declining water revenues due to declining water usage, we'll come back in January with a water/.sewer update.


Q - can that be camera'd?
A - No, we don't have one that small. It is only a 5/8 or 1 inch connection from the main that runs about 25 foot into his house.


Q - How long has this been?
A - It has been like this for year, it got worse when the Fire Station was cut into the main.


Mark Cerel out six to eight weeks for minor surgery


Bath house being constructed at Beaver St, the materials were donated and the labor will be provided by Tri-County


BJ's donated the money to put in the parking lot for the SNETT trail.


Express Line new issue is out. If you haven't subscribed, please do so. The Town website has a sign up process.


Tax rate hearing at next meeting


Gazebo is done, railings need to be painted.




Live reporting - Action items

picking up on the action items started earlier


2. Resolution 09-72: Acceptance of Gift – Senior Center
Kelly abstaining as Rotarian and writer of the grant
Motion to approve, passed 8-0, 1 abstain
3. Resolution 09-73: Endorsement of the Five Year Financial Outlook Report
The text of the resolution is as follows:

Endorsement of Five Year Financial Outlook
WHEREAS, The Town Council, elected on November 3, 2009, hereby endorses the Five Year Financial Outlook (FY 2010 to FY 2014), as presented in the final report of the Long-Range Financial Planning Committee, dated October 15, 2009. This endorsement is based on the belief in the following:
• The information regarding the Town’s finances (past, present, and future) appears fair and balanced, free from discernable bias and complete in all material respects.
• Franklin has been prudent and resourceful in its spending and allocation of resources
• The report confirms the ongoing fiscal concerns that Town officials have been communicating.
• The Town faces a structural deficit that we can reasonably expect to continue for the foreseeable future; accordingly, projected deficits in the future could be significant.
• The question of school/municipal services or higher property taxes will be an ongoing concern for the community to address.
• Town officials and residents should view this matter with urgency and continue to address the Town’s financial challenges using proactive methodology.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE TOWN COUNCIL endorses the Five Year Financial Outlook (FY 2010 to FY 2014), as presented in the final report of the Long-Range Financial Planning Committee, dated October 15, 2009.
This Resolution shall become effective according to the rules and regulations of the Town of Franklin Home Rule Charter.

Motion to approve, 9-0
4. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 09-637: Amendment to Chapter 185-3. Definitions – 1st Reading
motion to waive the reading, passed 9-0
Motion to move to second reading, passed 9-0

5. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 09-638: Amendment to Chapter 185-39. Uses Accessory to Dwelling – 1st Reading
Motion to move to second reading
Motion to move to second reading, passed 9-0



Live reporting - Master plan

Beth Dahlstrom, Bryan Taberner

copy of report to be obtained and added later



Live reporting - Open Space


H. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS  -

1. Reports on the Open Space & Recreation Plan and the Master Plan – Beth Dahlstrom, Town Planner
Beth Dahlstrom, Bryan Taberner



The presentation copy is here:

The 2008 Open Space and Recreation Plan can be found on the Town website
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Planning/2008plan


Copy of presentation to be added later

The Green Communities Act as referenced can be found here


The State has granted an extension of the five year plan to be implemented over seven years.


Q - Thanks for including the public in obtaining feedback. Is there any budget impact for these action items?
A - Yes, there is potential for budget but that would require coming back here for approval and include what ever other Town departments approval would be required. 


Jeff adds that we do have 1.7 million in our Open Space and Recreation account for purchase of open space that comes onto the market. If there is something simple we can do, we will. We can also utilize scouting projects and other volunteer efforts to accomplish some of these items.







Live reporting - bylaw hearing - part 2

Bryan Taberner, Nick Alfieri



F. HEARINGS -   7:10 PM
2. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 09-638: Amendment to Chapter 185-39. Uses Accessory to Dwelling

This is the follow on to the definitions bylaw as just discussed

motion to close the hearing
motion to move to first reading, passed 9-0


Live reporting - bylaw hearing



F. HEARINGS -   7:10 PM
1. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 09-637: Amendment to Chapter 185-3. Definitions


Bryan Taberner, Nick Alfieri

 The Planning Board has not voted on these yet.  Jeff Nutting recommends moving as far as a second reading but no further until the Planning Board has acted.

Q - on 3rd family is it included?
A - if it is not mentioned, it is not allowed.

Q - Follow up questions on multi-use like condo units.
A - We trying to restrict the amount of activity in a residential neighborhood, in a condo situation there is more traffic in those areas anyway. we are trying to make the by-law easier to read, understand and enforce.

Q - What is the intent of the by-law?
A - When people buy into a residential neighborhood, they don't expect to find someone running a business out of their house next door and allow for some non-intrusive businesses (i.e cost accountant, piano teacher, etc.).

Q - Why is this coming before us?
A - The building inspector and board of health inspector have found issues where these regulations make it hard to enforce. So we have re-written this to make it clearer and easier to understand.

Q - So by not mentioning other than the one-two family homes, they are not allowed?
A - Yes, 95% of by-law enforcement is complaint based. The condo association would likely get involved before we would.

Motion to close hearing, seconded
Motion to move to first reading, passed 9-0


Live reporting - Action items


J. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
1. Resolution 09-71: Adoption of Council Procedures
motion to amend to coincide with the two year terms of the Council, passed 9-0 (Zollo arrived)


motion to approve, passed 9-0






Live reporting - license transfer

G. LICENSE TRANSACTION
Transfer of All Alcoholic Beverages Package Store License – Dacey’s Market


Motion to approve - passed 8-0



Live reporting - Town Council


Attending: Jones, Kelly, Vallee, Whalen, Mason, Pfeffer, McGann, Powderly
Missing: Zollo

A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - none

B. ANNOUNCEMENTS - Councilors Forum at Senior Center
School Committee invited Councilors for a tour of the school facilities
Committee subcommittee announcements (to be added later)
Strategic Planning Committee changes (to be added later)

C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS - none

D. CITIZEN COMMENTS
Robert Jarvis returned to complain about the water filters being changed

E. APPOINTMENTS -       Library Board of Directors
Motion to approve Monique Doyle, passed 8-0



Town Council - Agenda - 11/18/09

A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

B. ANNOUNCEMENTS

C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS

D. CITIZEN COMMENTS

E. APPOINTMENTS -       Library Board of Directors

F. HEARINGS -   7:10 PM
1. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 09-637: Amendment to Chapter 185-3. Definitions
2. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 09-638: Amendment to Chapter 185-39. Uses Accessory to Dwelling

G. LICENSE TRANSACTION
Transfer of All Alcoholic Beverages Package Store License – Dacey’s Market

H. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS  -
1. Reports on the Open Space & Recreation Plan and the Master Plan – Beth Dahlstrom, Town Planner

I. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS

J. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
1. Resolution 09-71: Adoption of Council Procedures
2. Resolution 09-72: Acceptance of Gift – Senior Center
3. Resolution 09-73: Endorsement of the Five Year Financial Outlook Report
4. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 09-637: Amendment to Chapter 185-3. Definitions – 1st Reading
5. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 09-638: Amendment to Chapter 185-39. Uses Accessory to Dwelling – 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



School Committee Mtg 11/17/09

The collection of live reported posts covering the School Committee meeting on Tuesday November 17 can be found here:



High School Reunion - Class of 1960

Hold the date - June 4, 2010 for the Franklin High School Class of 1960 Reunion.

Details contained in the flyer here:

Discover Simple, Private Sharing at Drop.io

Spread the word to any graduates you know.

In the News - MCAS, toy drive

Without extra help, some Franklin students struggle with MCAS

from The Milford Daily News News RSS



Toy drive stirs the Christmas spirit in Franklin

from The Milford Daily News News RSS





Downtown Partnership: Winter Beautification Day


Dear Franklin Downtown Partnership Members:

Winter Beautification Day
Sunday, November 22nd at 9 AM

Please come with gloves and tools.
We will meet in the center of downtown.

Important:  If you have a barrel in front of your business please have the flowers cleaned out by Sunday. Please submit your barrel beautification payments by this Thursday.

Please email Eileen at emason11@verizon.net if you plan to volunteer on
Sunday.  It is a FUN community event and we hope to have all of you participate this year!

Anyone who would still like to sponsor our Winter Decorations please contact
Lisa Piana this week.  Thanks to all of you who have supported our spring flowers!


Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Live reporting - Administration update and closing

6. Information Matters

Superintendent’s Report

a. Enrollment Comparison 10-31-08 to 10-30-09
loss of 100 students will result in a loss of foundation funding
b. Capital Request Process
c. FHS Art Gallery 218
School Committee Sub-Committee Reports
no reports

School Committee Liaison Reports
no reports

H1N1 - no real change, the vaccine is not available, school attendance has improved.

Completed our business in executive session earlier,

Motion to adjourn, passed 7-0


Live reporting - Action Items

5. Action Items

a. I recommend approval of the recurring field trip for the 3 middle schools to New York City to see Mary Poppins as detailed.  motion to approve, passed 7-0
b. I recommend acceptance of a check for $500.00 from Amy & Dana Lilly for the Annie Sullivan Student Activity Account for in-house enrichment, supplies & scholarships.  motion to approve, passed 7-0
c. I recommend acceptance of a check for $1,450.00 from the various sports boosters (as listed) for television installation at FHS.  motion to approve, passed 7-0
d. I recommend approval of the request of Corine Minkle to declare outdated reading and math materials and old text books surplus for disposal.  motion to approve, passed 7-0
e. I recommend acceptance of a check for $1,800.00 from the Franklin Music Boosters for in-house enrichment at the FHS.  motion to approve, passed 7-0
f. I recommend approval of the Technology capital plan.  motion to approve, passed 7-0
g. I recommend approval of the Facilities capital plan.  motion to approve, passed 7-0
h. I recommend approval of the Budget Transfers and declassification as detailed.  motion to approve, passed 7-0

Live reporting - discussion only items

4. Discussion Only Items

First Reading – Policy JIEE Pregnant Students
DESE advised that we were out of compliance with the regulations where a student needed to provide documentation


Motion to move to second reading - passed 7-0




Subcommittee Review

Motion to dissolve strategic planning subcommittee - passed 7-0
motion to dissolve the FHS subcommittee - passed 7-0



Live reporting - 5 minute break

The meeting is taking a break and will resume with the discussion only items.