Thursday, July 15, 2010

Facts At a Glance: Massachusetts Ranks 31st in Taxes in FY 2008

I get this newsletter and for those interested in the whole budget process, they are quite informative. You can subscribe to receive your own copy via one of their channels.




Explore our online
budget database
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Donate to the Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center


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Contact Info



  Noah Berger
  President

  (617) 426-1228 x102


  Tom Benner
  Communications Director
  tbenner@massbudget.org
  (617) 426-1228 x100



Facts At a Glance:
Massachusetts Ranks 31st in Taxes in FY 2008

July 15, 2010


This week the U.S. Census Bureau released its annual update of State and Local Government Finances, providing national data for Fiscal Year 2008. 

The amount of state and local taxes paid in Massachusetts as a share of total personal income was 10.3 percent in FY 2008. By this measure, Massachusetts had lower taxes than 30 other states.

A MassBudget fact sheet analyzing the new Census data is available at www.massbudget.org or by clicking here.


In addition, a newly updated fact sheet, Facts At a Glance: New Corporate Tax Breaks Proposed in Economic Development Legislation, is available by clicking here.

See MassBudget's Budget Browser to explore Massachusetts state budgets from Fiscal Year 2001 to the present, as well as budget proposals offered by the Governor and the Legislature.

MassBudget provides independent research and analysis of state budget and tax policies, as well as economic issues, with particular attention to the effects on low- and moderate-income people.
Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center | 15 Court Square | Suite 700 | Boston | MA | 02108

Franklin, MA: new recycle process video

The DPW have posted a new video on the Franklin, MA website You can view it here, or navigate the the DPW Recyle page to download a copy of your own to view.
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Recycling/index




The video depicting the automated pick up process can be found here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zaCm59t0nbU

Note: The truck picks up one kind of barrel each time it comes by. Once for recycling (Yellow cover) and once for trash (Black cover).


Franklin, MA: road construction update

Main Street and Lincoln Street from Emmons Street to Moore Avenue will be under construction starting July 15, 2010 to October 2010 for the construction of a new water main. Motorist should expect delays and detours during this time.


Originally posted on the Franklin, MA website here
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_News/015BA046-000F8513


Have you done any travel out of the state of MA this summer? We are lucky to only have a few roads under construction this summer. Why? Franklin continues to save money and avoid repairs until government funding becomes available because Franklin taxpayers can't find a way to pay for their own road repair.

Oh and this is government funding (capital and road improvement grants) that would not have been available for operational expenses like teachers or police dispatchers.

In the News - arson, construction


Arson suspected in Franklin brush fires



Construction in downtown Franklin may cause traffic delays



Franklin, MA

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

Reminder: Don't Forget to Attend the July 14th Wine Tasting!



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From Champagne to Port, Chianti to Merlot...
Come taste a variety of wine, with the YPO!








Greetings!
There are so many different types of wine available to purchase. With so many regions and flavors, making sure you select the right one, for whatever the occasion, can be a tricky task. And if you've ever taken a trip to your local liquor store, you know how overwhelming the choice can be. 
 



Wine Tasting Event
Please join the United Regional's Young Professional Organization (YPO) for an evening of food, fun, music, and of course, wine!







Our wine connoisseurs promise to tantalize your taste buds will today's most popular wines. And they'll tell you which bottle of vino is sure to be a hit at your next party!
There will also be food and music provided.
United Regional's Young Professional Organization 



What's the YPO?
The YPO is THE place for 20 and 30-somethings who have an interest in social and business networking, community involvement, and professional development.







Come meet other young professionals in your area and check out the YPO!
Also, be on the lookout for details of our next event on August 12th!




We hope you'll be able to join us as we taste the wine and savor the food at Country Gardens! 
Sincerely,

Jack Lank
United Regional's YPO
Where:
Country Gardens



339 Tremont Street



Rehoboth, MA 02769

(508) 431-1255




When: 

Wednesday
July 14, 2010




5:00-7:00pm 


Get Social With Us!
 Find us on Facebook
Join Our Mailing List
RSVP



Today! 




To plan for enough food and wine, please let us know if you'll be attending by RSVP'ing to jen@unitedregionalchamber.com prior to July 10th.



Franklin, MA: Town committee/board openings

The following Boards have vacancies.  If you are interested please complete a committee appointment request form which can be obtained from the Town Clerk’s office located on the first floor of the Municipal Building, 355 East Central Street or downloaded from the Town Clerk’s web page.Click here for form


Board
Regular Member
Municipal Affordable Housing Trust Fund
  1
Cable Advisory Board
  1
Franklin Cultural Council
  1
Franklin Disability Commission
  2
Library Board of Directors
  1
Public Land Use Committee
  2
Recreation Advisory Board
  1
Zoning Board of Appeals
  1


This was originally posted on the Franklin, MA website here
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_News/015B9553-000F8513


In the News - veterans benefits, storm water rules


Local veterans agents applaud PTSD ruling



Franklin, MA


Tuesday, July 13, 2010

Third Thursday - July 15th

The Franklin Downtown Partnership will host its next Third Thursday event July 15 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. with two participating merchants spotlighting artists and others celebrating Christmas in July.

Jane’s Frames, 11 East Central Street, will host an Artist’s Reception beginning at 4 p.m. featuring fine art photography by Cariappa Annaiah. Also that evening, Jean Blake White will be hosting an exhibition of her artwork at Café Dolce, where she’ll be on hand to talk about her work and the Franklin Art Association. As usual, there also will be live music for visitors to enjoy.

Emma’s Quilt Cupboard on Main Street and Part Paints N’ Pottery on East Central Street will be celebrating Christmas in July. At the pottery studio visitors can paint Christmas ornaments while enjoying gingersnaps and mulled cider.

Also that evening the Franklin Historical Museum will be open for tours from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., and other businesses will feature specials as well. Come learn about Franklin history and enjoy downtown.

The Franklin Downtown Partnership is a group of community leaders, business owners and residents whose mission is the economic revival of Franklin’s downtown.

The public is invited to the Partnership’s next general meeting on Thursday, July 15, at 8:30 a.m. at Dean College.

The next scheduled events are Third Thursday, August 19th and the Harvest Festival, September 26th. The deadline for festival crafters registration is August 15th.

For more information please contact Executive Director Lisa Piana at (774)571-3109 or downtown.franklin@yahoo.com.


Franklin, MA


In the News - music, local produce


Franklin music teacher takes act to Boston




Franklin native opens farm stand


Franklin, MA

Monday, July 12, 2010

Franklin Area Blogs: Lydia, oh, Lydia!

In the whole group of the Franklin Area Blogs, there is one where humor is king, rather queen; Lydia Oh Lydia!

Lydia's blogger description tell us that she is
"a fat eccentric suburban soccer mom takes you along on all her hilarious adventures. She along with her crazy kids, and an odd cast of characters raise hell in their quiet idyllic New England town. Lydia is a brilliant satirist...She is the crazy suburban mom you wished lived next door! No need to shave your legs before you read this blog. Lydia Dustin's blog Lydia Oh Lydia Copyright © Blog All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution of content, text, or image is strictly prohibited without prior written consent. The Lydia Oh Lydia Blog was launched by Lydia Dustin Kirchthurn in October, 2008."
When you need a laugh, you only need to turn to Lydia.


The most recent updates from Lydia can be found in the Franklin Area Blogs section, along the far right column here on Franklin Matters.

Click through to visit Lydia when you need that laugh and let Lydia know you heard about her here!

Enjoy!



Franklin, MA


Sunday, July 11, 2010

wind power

out in Illinois, along i39 and IL ST 30, wind turbines amongst the corn and soybean fields are a glorious sight to see.

  
The turbine at St Mary's Abbey stands alone. These turbines are amongst dozens.



Franklin, MA

Franklin Area Blogs: scouts, reverend, and chiropractor services

We are getting to the 'one-of' kind of blogs that populate the remainder of my listing of Franklin Area Blogs.

First up is the Cub Scouts with Franklin Cub Scout Pack 126

Rev Charley Eastman, of the Franklin Federated Church, writes at Federated Rev

Dr Dan Van Roon, who runs a chiropractic service (yes, the same one who created a stir recently when he tried proposing to move to a new location at the corner of RT 140 and Jordan Road), writes frequently at Van Roon Chiropractic


The most recent updates from each of these blogs can be found in the Franklin Area Blogs section, along the far right column here on Franklin Matters.

Click through to visit them from time to time and let them know you heard about them here!

Enjoy!


Franklin, MA

Saturday, July 10, 2010

Franklin Area Blogs: arts and crafts

The art and craft world is covered by Franklin Area blogs.

The Franklin Mill Store has its own blog. Mary writes
ruminations from the Franklin Mill Store

... just a little something is a creation by joanne b who says of herself
"First and foremost, I'm a mom to two wonderful young boys. I'm a home daycare provider by day, and at night, and on the weekends, I treat myself with lots of stamping time! Thanks for stopping by!"

AubreyGreenPhotography is a blog by a recent Franklin resident and photographer.
"I am a professional photographer specializing in creative and fun photography. I am located in Franklin, MA, but serve all of Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Islans and New Hampshire. ~Please contact me if you are interested in portrait, engagement or wedding services~"

The most recent updates from each of these blogs can be found in the Franklin Area Blogs section, along the far right column here on Franklin Matters.

Click through to visit them from time to time and let them know you heard about them here!

Enjoy!


Franklin, MA


Friday, July 9, 2010

In the News - brush fire, Howard Crawford


Second brush fire on same Franklin street deemed suspicious




Persistence pays off for Franklin beekeeper




Today, Crawford continues to teach and mentor new beekeepers at the Norfolk County Beekeepers Association, and says he loves the bees almost as much as he loves their keepers.
"I've never met a beekeeper I never liked. Anyone that keeps bees are nice people," he said. "I think you've got to have a certain character to be a beekeeper."
A week from his 87th birthday, Crawford currently keeps 12 hives - and hopes to keep them for a long time coming.


Franklin, MA


Franklin Area Blogs: environment

There are a couple of blogs based in Franklin writing about the environment and living green.

The Clueless Gardeners - Michelle is a frequent commenter here and should be followed. She and her husband are doing some good stuff in their garden.
"Welcome to our garden! Since 2007 we have been striving to turn our lawn into something beautiful, tasty, ecologically sound, and a centerpiece of our community here in Franklin, Massachusetts. We hope you enjoy your visit! -Michelle, Chris, and Gabe Clay"
The Experimental Farmer and The Green Suitcase. Maureen writes both blogs as she is
"A New England gardener and purveyor of all things vintage"



The most recent updates from each of these blogs can be found in the Franklin Area Blogs section, along the far right column here on Franklin Matters.

Click through to visit them from time to time and let them know you heard about them here!

Enjoy!


Franklin, MA

Thursday, July 8, 2010

Franklin Area Blogs: fitness

Due to the number of fitness type blogs, one could say that Franklin is concerned about their health.

In no particular order, you can read

Athletes in Motion This blog is
"... for the purpose of getting YOU over the finish line at the SheROX Triathlon on Sunday, July 25, 2010. Here is our journey of some Franklin, MA-area women who learned that by having inspiration from other like-minded women, they are able to do what they thought might be unachievable. We call it "the power of the group!"
Martinator's Bicycling Blog This blog is
A journal of my bike rides along with photos taken during my rides via my cell phone. A cool feature is embedded GPS ride data of my rides courtesy of Motionbased.com.
360 Fitness Revolution This blog covers
General Fitness, Spinning (Indoor Cycling), Pilates, Weight Management, Lifestyle and Nutrition related articles, commentary and research. Fitness business management, marketing, and whatever else comes our way! We are located in Franklin, Massachusetts.

The most recent updates from each of these blogs can be found in the Franklin Area Blogs section, along the far right column here on Franklin Matters.

Click through to visit them from time to time and let them know you heard about them here!

Enjoy!


Franklin, MA

In the News - traffic flow


Franklin Council debates traffic flow downtown




Franklin, MA


Wednesday, July 7, 2010

Franklin, MA: MANDATORY WATER BAN

MANDATORY WATER BAN MEASURES
TAKE EFFECT ON WEDNESDAY, JULY 7, 2010

NO OUTDOOR WATER USE IS PERMITTED AT THIS TIME, EXCEPT HAND WATERING OF GARDENS.

These water ban measures are needed to limit the demand on the water system in order to ensure that adequate water is available to meet the public health and safety needs of the Town. This measure is necessary to maintain the water levels in the tanks for fire protection and normal consumption use.

~Non-compliance with these regulations could adversely affect public health and safety. Violators are subject to fines up to $200.

This ban will be effective until further notice.


This was originally posted to the Franklin website here
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_News/015A8D86-000F8513


Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - 7/7/10

A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – May 19, June 9 & 10, June 16, 2010

B. ANNOUNCEMENTS -Meetings of the Town Council are Recorded

C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS

D. CITIZEN COMMENTS

E. APPOINTMENTS
Franklin Ad Hoc Recycling Committee
Historical Commission
Recreation Advisory Board

F. HEARINGS

G. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS - Request for Wine & Malt Beverages License – Maguro House

H. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS - Downtown Streetscape

I. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS

J. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
1. Resolution10-37: 1st Refusal Option, Chapter 61A Land-41 South Street
2. Resolution 10-38: Acceptance of Law Section 114, Chapter 159, Acts of 2000
3. Resolution 10-39: Granting MGL Chp. 268A S. 20(b) Exemptions
4. Bylaw Amendment 10-648: Chp. 151, Solid Waste; § 151-1. Definition –2nd 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



Franklin, MA


Franklin Area Blogs: real estate

There are two real estate blogs that are based in Franklin, focus on Franklin, and are updated frequently.

Warren Reynolds writes at 02038.com. Warren is a Franklin resident and a realtor for Century 21.

Kathy Stankard writes at Franklin Massachusetts Homes Kathy is a Franklin resident and a realtor for Re/Max.

The most recent updates from both blogs can be in the Franklin Area Blog section along the far right column here on Franklin Matters.


Click on over there to find out what is happening in the Franklin real estate world and let them know you found out about them here.

Enjoy!

Franklin, MA


Tuesday, July 6, 2010

Franklin Area Blogs: Collection

Real Estate


There are two real estate blogs that are based in Franklin, focus on Franklin, and are updated frequently.

Warren Reynolds writes at 02038.com. Warren is a Franklin resident and a realtor for Century 21.

Kathy Stankard writes at Franklin Massachusetts Homes Kathy is a Franklin resident and a realtor for Re/Max.



Fitness

Due to the number of fitness type blogs, one could say that Franklin is concerned about their health.

In no particular order, you can read

Athletes in Motion This blog is
"... for the purpose of getting YOU over the finish line at the SheROX Triathlon on Sunday, July 25, 2010. Here is our journey of some Franklin, MA-area women who learned that by having inspiration from other like-minded women, they are able to do what they thought might be unachievable. We call it "the power of the group!"
A journal of my bike rides along with photos taken during my rides via my cell phone. A cool feature is embedded GPS ride data of my rides courtesy of Motionbased.com.
360 Fitness Revolution This blog covers
General Fitness, Spinning (Indoor Cycling), Pilates, Weight Management, Lifestyle and Nutrition related articles, commentary and research. Fitness business management, marketing, and whatever else comes our way! We are located in Franklin, Massachusetts.


http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/07/franklin-area-blogs-fitness.html

Environment


There are a couple of blogs based in Franklin writing about the environment and living green.

The Clueless Gardeners - Michelle is a frequent commenter here and should be followed. She and her husband are doing some good stuff in their garden.
"Welcome to our garden! Since 2007 we have been striving to turn our lawn into something beautiful, tasty, ecologically sound, and a centerpiece of our community here in Franklin, Massachusetts. We hope you enjoy your visit! -Michelle, Chris, and Gabe Clay"
The Experimental Farmer and The Green Suitcase. Maureen writes both blogs as she is
"A New England gardener and purveyor of all things vintage"
http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/07/franklin-area-blogs-environment.html

Arts and Crafts



The art and craft world is covered by Franklin Area blogs.

The Franklin Mill Store has its own blog. Mary writes
ruminations from the Franklin Mill Store

... just a little something is a creation by joanne b who says of herself
"First and foremost, I'm a mom to two wonderful young boys. I'm a home daycare provider by day, and at night, and on the weekends, I treat myself with lots of stamping time! Thanks for stopping by!"

AubreyGreenPhotography is a blog by a recent Franklin resident and photographer.
"I am a professional photographer specializing in creative and fun photography. I am located in Franklin, MA, but serve all of Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Islans and New Hampshire. ~Please contact me if you are interested in portrait, engagement or wedding services~"

http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/07/franklin-area-blogs-arts-and-crafts.html

One of a kind


We are getting to the 'one-of' kind of blogs that populate the remainder of my listing of Franklin Area Blogs.

First up is the Cub Scouts with Franklin Cub Scout Pack 126

Rev Charley Eastman, of the Franklin Federated Church, writes at Federated Rev

Dr Dan Van Roon, who runs a chiropractic service (yes, the same one who created a stir recently when he tried proposing to move to a new location at the corner of RT 140 and Jordan Road), writes frequently at Van Roon Chiropractic



Humor


In the whole group of the Franklin Area Blogs, there is one where humor is king, rather queen; Lydia Oh Lydia!

Lydia's blogger description tell us that she is
"a fat eccentric suburban soccer mom takes you along on all her hilarious adventures. She along with her crazy kids, and an odd cast of characters raise hell in their quiet idyllic New England town. Lydia is a brilliant satirist...She is the crazy suburban mom you wished lived next door! No need to shave your legs before you read this blog. Lydia Dustin's blog Lydia Oh Lydia Copyright © Blog All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution of content, text, or image is strictly prohibited without prior written consent. The Lydia Oh Lydia Blog was launched by Lydia Dustin Kirchthurn in October, 2008."
When you need a laugh, you only need to turn to Lydia.




If you find other Franklin area blogs, please let me know.

Franklin, MA

Crossways Church - Summer St

Two views of what will become of the Crossways Church on Summer St


And here:


The Planning Board discussions on the Crossways Church proposal can be found here
http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/04/crossways-church-coming-to-summer-st.html

Meeting May 3rd
http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/05/live-reporting-282-summer-st-crossways.html


Franklin, MA

Price Chopper or rock pile?

The proposal for a Price Chopper market starts the process all over again as if it had never happened due to a technicality.

The rock pile along RT 140 at the intersection of Chestnut Ridge would be replaced by the supermarket, IF the proposal goes through. It requires a special permit as well as approval for the site plan from the Planning Board.


Stay tuned to the Planning Board for the hearings on this proposal. It will resume discussion on Aug 9th.

Conservation Commission meeting of May 13th
http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/05/conservation-commission-price-chopper.html


Planning Board meeting of May 17th



Franklin, MA

Monday, July 5, 2010

"It's no mystery why so many would choose to live here"

Jamie Barrett composed and sings the song "City Known as the Town of Franklin"



I know this place in Massachusetts
That's better than best it's as great as it gets
It's beauty and all of it's history's awaiting for you!


Folks are as friendly as friendly can be
Open your eyes there's plenty to see
Let's take a look at the long list of things you can do...


In the city known as the town of Franklin


Check out America's first lending library
A closer look shows you it's not ordinary
For inside you'll find the first books that were furnished by Ben


The one-room Red Brick School's become the town's treasure
The oldest one running by anyone's measure
Still looks the same now today as it did way back then


In the city known as the town of Franklin


Well, then there's the common that's uncommonly good
Where townspeople gather as townspeople should
Weddings, concerts, and festivals throughout the year


And monuments honor the mighty Mann, Horace
And all that this father of education did for us
It's no mystery why so many would choose to live here


In the city known as the town of Franklin



Franklin, MA

Sunday, July 4, 2010

4th of July - links of interest on this historic day

From the Declaration of Independence
When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security.
History of the 4th of July (wikipedia)

From the Franklin Charter:
We, the people of the Town of Franklin, Massachusetts, in order to form a more perfect community, reaffirm the customary and traditional liberties of the people with respect to the conduct of our local government and take fullest advantage of the Home Rule Amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth, do ordain and adopt this Home Rule Charter for our Town.
Read more of the charter here:
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_TownCharter/preamble

There will likely be an opportunity for Franklin voters to accept or turn down changes to the charter later this year. The proposed changes are into Boston for legislative approval before returning for the Franklin voters to have their say.

Reporting from the various Town Council discussions about the proposed changes can be found here:

http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/03/charter-revisions-lessons-learned.html

http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/04/live-reporting-legislation.html

http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/04/fm-63-week-ending-4410.html

http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/03/live-reporting-charter-changes.html

http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/03/franklin-ma-town-council-charter.html

http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/01/live-reporting-charter-revision-updates.html

http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2009/09/live-reporting-charter-changes.html



Franklin, MA