2. Guests/Presentations
a. School Handbooks - Principals
Sally Winslow - provided an overview on handbooks
All the Elementary school principals, and Karen Seyfried (ECDC)
Statement in five major native languages present in the district
Documents to be converted to HTML format which will enable an automatic selection of language
Student friendly language
consistent policies across the schools
policy on early childhood school readiness added
new policy on bullying/cyberbulling added to the handbooks
principals work on this effort to apply it to each of the levels within the district
I reported on my survey results of the handbooks on the websites this afternoon.
They were all found but some were called "family", some "student", some had the school name and one had "parent"
Could there be some consistency in the naming of them; perhaps using the school name to reflect some of the specialization that each does.
Franklin, MA
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Live reporting - School Committee
Present: Douglas, Cafasso, Rohrbach, Mullen, Roy, Trahan, Glynn
Absent: none
1. Routine Business
Citizen’s Comments - none
Absent: none
1. Routine Business
Citizen’s Comments - none
Review of Agenda - no adjustments
Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the Executive Session and Open Session of the July 20, 2010 School Committee Meeting.
Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the Executive Session and Open Session of the July 20, 2010 School Committee Meeting.
Motion to approve, passed 6-0 (1 abstain)
Payment of Bills - Mr. Glynn
Motion to approve, passed 7-0
Motion to approve, passed 7-0
Payroll - Mrs. Douglas
FHS Student Representatives
Correspondence: none
Franklin, MA
Correspondence: none
Franklin, MA
Business After Hours - Aug 11th - Canceled
From the United Regional Chamber of Commerce today, I hear that
Franklin, MA
| Aug. 11 Business After Hours Canceled |
Due to circumstances beyond our control, the Franklin Hawthorn Suites has canceled its Business After Hours scheduled for Wed., Aug. 11. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. Please consider attending the Aug. 24 Business After Hours at Pleasant Auto Center in Attleboro. |
Franklin, MA
Choices - Choices
This is one of those days when you have a choice to make. You can participate in the Franklin Citizens Rail Trail meeting at the Y or participate in the School Committee meeting.
The agenda for the Rail Trail meeting can be found here:
http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/08/franklin-citizens-rail-trail-committee.html
The agenda for the School Committee meeting can be found here:
http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/08/franklin-ma-school-committee-agenda.html
The District Improvement Plan (on the list for discussion) can be found here:
http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/08/franklin-ma-public-schools-district.html
Your choice!
Franklin, MA
The agenda for the Rail Trail meeting can be found here:
http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/08/franklin-citizens-rail-trail-committee.html
The agenda for the School Committee meeting can be found here:
http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/08/franklin-ma-school-committee-agenda.html
The District Improvement Plan (on the list for discussion) can be found here:
http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/08/franklin-ma-public-schools-district.html
Your choice!
Franklin, MA
In the News - Price Chopper
He said the store could only be reached by two entrances from Chestnut Ridge Road - one for deliveries and the other for customers. He said they propose to install a traffic light at East Central Street and widen the entrance to Chestnut Ridge to make for easier turns.
Doherty said the building is about 35 feet lower than surrounding homes, and about a dozen 4-foot-high air conditioning units would sit on top of the building in soundproof enclosures. He said already existing evergreen trees would provide a buffer between the store and homes.
He said the developer would also try, during construction, to improve public utilities, like the sewage pumping station and water main.
The saga continues. Read the full story in the Milford Daily News here:
Proposed Price Chopper worries residents
Franklin, MA
Random Smile Project's Fun Runs for Jen Bal set
Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:
via The Milford Daily News News RSS by GateHouse Media, Inc. on 8/9/10
Random Smile Project's "Fun Runs for Jen Bal" benefit road race will be held on Sunday Aug. 22, at Boston Sports Club, 750 Union St., Franklin.
The first race at 9 a.m., will be held for kids. Feature races will be held at 10 a.m., a 5 K Fun Run and the 5 Mile Mount Street Madness race. Register at Active.com.
The family event will include professional timing, runner t-shirts will supplies last, award medals to first and second place in all divisions, race ribbons to all kids participants, post-race refreshments and raffle prizes. Free entry to BSC's campground facilities including ropes course, sad volleyball, basketball, inflatable waterslides and more.
All proceeds to benefit the Jen Ballarino Scholarship Fund and two-weeks at BSC's summer Camp, in Franklin.
Things you can do from here:
- Subscribe to The Milford Daily News News RSS using Google Reader
- Get started using Google Reader to easily keep up with all your favorite sites
You can visit the BSC-Franklin website here to view the schedule of programs available:
http://www.mysportsclubs.com/clubsched/_clubdetail.htm?rg=BSC&a=BSC&c=215
Survey reminder
The current survey on the new trash and recycle system is open for your input through Aug 14th.
You can find the survey here:
http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/08/new-trashrecycle-status-survey.html
Note:
As of 8/5/10 8:00 PM there were 43 responses.
As of 8/9/10 8:00 PM there were 62 responses.
Thanks!
Franklin, MA
You can find the survey here:
http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/08/new-trashrecycle-status-survey.html
Note:
As of 8/5/10 8:00 PM there were 43 responses.
As of 8/9/10 8:00 PM there were 62 responses.
Thanks!
Franklin, MA
Monday, August 9, 2010
ice cream as 'a treat that's refreshing and new'
At Spruce Pond Creamery's takeout window, Kenneth Josephson ordered two scoops of maple walnut ice cream, the only flavor he's tried for many years.
"I liked maple walnut when I was young. I still like it," said the retired engineer. "If you like something, why change it?"
That might surprise Marc Bluestein, who opened the combination ice cream parlor and organic pizzeria at 370 King St. in Franklin 11 years ago with his brother Gary.
They've prospered by adapting to new nutritional trends by serving a diverse and healthy menu featuring organic pizza and organic beer and all natural ice cream, which they make on site.
While many ice cream parlors are small specially shops located in a plaza or squeezed between bigger buildings, Spruce Pond Creamery is spacious and has a country ambience with a rear balcony overlooking its namesake pond.
"The only thing I don't have is a pasture with cows," said Bluestein, who has owned two other restaurants in Rhode Island and also worked many years in finance and administration.
The creamery serves about 50 flavors of all-natural homemade ice cream as well as "no fat, no sugar" soft serve yogurt and several varieties of sorbet.Read more about other ice cream places in the area in the Milford Daily News here:
http://www.milforddailynews.com/features/x1179101574/Sweet-Treat-Ice-cream-shops-help-beat-the-summer-heat
Trivia question: Something is wrong with this sign, can you tell what it is?
Updated 8/13/10:
The answer to the question is that the sign is the "old" one and not the one showing today:
This picture was taken on an overcast day in June. The picture above shows the sign in April before Spruce Pond updated it to show that they can now server beer and wine.
Franklin, MA
Plansee - "we are hiring"
The 60,000-square-foot factory specializes in special metals, known as refractory metals, and precision machining. It produces parts for X-ray machines, light bulbs, flight-safety parts and more.
It moved from Holliston to the Franklin Industrial Park in 1996, where it continues to grow with the help of experienced workers who are required to have some related skills before starting the job.
"They have to be a (computer numerically controlled) machinist. ...They have to have a capability with the machines," Okorn said.
"They have to be able to read blueprints and interpret technical drawings," added Sontgerath.
While machining skills are important, Sontgerath said training is also available.
Read more about the job opportunities at Plansee USA LLC in the Milford Daily News here:
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/x1799253025/A-Franklins-factorys-surprising-quest
You can visit the Plansee website here
http://www.stcmetals.com/en/index.htm
Franklin, MA
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Franklin, MA: Planning Board - 08/09/10 - Agenda
The application for the Franklin Market (Price Chopper) comes back to restart the whole process on Monday, August 9. You may recall that due to a technicality where the developer had not completely notified all the abutters, what had transpired in the prior hearings gets wiped out and they start all over.
Franklin. MA Planning Board: Agenda 8-9-10
Note: email subscribers will need to click through to Franklin Matters to view the document.
Franklin, MA
Franklin. MA Planning Board: Agenda 8-9-10
Note: email subscribers will need to click through to Franklin Matters to view the document.
Franklin, MA
Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - 8/10/10
Vision Statement
The Franklin Public Schools will foster within its students the knowledge and skills to find and achieve satisfaction in life as productive global citizens.
Mission Statement
The Franklin Public Schools, in collaboration with the community, will cultivate each student's intellectual, social, emotional and physical potential through rigorous academic inquiry and informed problem solving skills within a safe, nurturing and respectful environment.
"The listing of matters are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair which may be discussed at the meeting. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by law."
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 Executive Session and Open Session of the July 20, 2010 School Committee Meeting.
Payment of Bills - Mr. Glynn
Payroll - Mrs. Douglas
FHS Student Representatives
Correspondence: none
2. Guests/Presentations
a. School Handbooks - Principals
b. District Improvement Plan
3. Discussion Only Items - none
4. Action Items - none
5. Information Matters
Superintendent’s Report
a. MSBA Update
b. Personnel Update
c. Schedules / Teacher Assignments
d. Center For American Progress
e. New Staff Orientation (8/24, 25, 26 – RMS 8:00 A.M.)
f. Foreign Language Technology Presentation
g. Proposed School Committee Presentations 2010-11
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
Franklin (MA) Public Schools: District Improvement Plan
The following document is scheduled for discussion at the School Committee meeting on Tuesday, August 10, 2010.
The document outlines the District Improvement Plan (fondly referred to as the 'DIP'). The District Improvement Plan takes the Strategic Plan and sets out actions to bring the district to a level of achievement for each of their strategic objectives.
The format of the document should be easy to follow. Each page lays out one of the Core Values, with columns to show the strategies, resources, responsibilities, timelines, etc. to take action on.
Franklin (MA) Public Schools: District Improvement Plan_4SC_2010-12
How does this look to you?
What feedback would you have for the Administration, School Committee and whomever else participates on Tuesday evening?
The document outlines the District Improvement Plan (fondly referred to as the 'DIP'). The District Improvement Plan takes the Strategic Plan and sets out actions to bring the district to a level of achievement for each of their strategic objectives.
The format of the document should be easy to follow. Each page lays out one of the Core Values, with columns to show the strategies, resources, responsibilities, timelines, etc. to take action on.
Franklin (MA) Public Schools: District Improvement Plan_4SC_2010-12
How does this look to you?
What feedback would you have for the Administration, School Committee and whomever else participates on Tuesday evening?
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Native Plants of Franklin
Were any of you able to identify last week's native plant? If you said milkweed, you win!
(Thanks to Wikimedia Commons for this second image.)
Common milkweed, Asclepias syriaca, is better known for what eats it than for its flowers; but don't let that give you any wrong ideas about its flowers! Milkweed has stunning spheres of blossoms that from up close look like they have been folded from origami.
And of course, what eats the plant are the larvae of monarch butterflies. They eat milkweed, and nothing else. Here is a female monarch looking for leaves to lay her eggs on.
And this is what the caterpillars look like.
If you want to see more monarch butterflies in your yard, plant milkweed! Seeds can easily be collected in the Autumn from meadows where milkweed grows, or they can be ordered from sources such as easywildflowers.com.
And here is our next mystery native flower. Hint: I've zoomed in rather close. Another hint: it's in bloom now.
Don't forget, you can post your answers (or wild guesses!) in the comments section. Happy botanical sleuthing!
Franklin, MA
Spanish-American War Memorial
This what the platform looks like in a recent photo reflecting the work underway:
From the archive, this photo was taken of the memorial in 2007:
The story of the memorial work and gun restoration can be found at the end of the Town Council meeting notes from Aug 4th:
http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/08/town-council-080410-notes-from-meeting.html
Franklin, MA
From the archive, this photo was taken of the memorial in 2007:
The story of the memorial work and gun restoration can be found at the end of the Town Council meeting notes from Aug 4th:
http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/08/town-council-080410-notes-from-meeting.html
Franklin, MA
"officials don't have an estimate for the cost of renovations"
Renovating the science lab is a top priority educationally, according to Light. He also pointed to the auditorium as an area that could use work.
Light said auditorium seating predates the rest of the school by about a decade, and was salvaged from a town middle school. The stage is not handicapped-accessible. Some eight feet behind its curtain, there's a large cement wall.
"The renovation is more about the core of the building," Director of Facilities Mike D'Angelo said. "It's built to educate kids in 1971. It's not built to educate them in 2010."Read the full article about the tour of Franklin High School by local and state official in the Milford Daily News here:
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/x1799252551/Officials-tour-Franklin-High
Franklin, MA
Friday, August 6, 2010
Town Council - 08/04/10 - notes from meeting video
Present: Kelly, Jones, Vallee, Whalen, Mason, Pfeffer, McGann, Zollo, Powderly
Absent: none
A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – July 7, 2010
Motion to approve, passed 9-0
B. ANNOUNCEMENTS - Meetings of the Town Council are Recorded
Change of Council Meeting Dates – Sept. 1 to Sep 8, and Sep 15 to Sept. 29
motion to approve change of Sep meeting dates, passed 9-0
C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS - none
D. CITIZEN COMMENTS - none
E. APPOINTMENTS - none
F. HEARINGS - none
G. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS - none
H. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS - none
I. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS - none
J. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION –
1. Resolution 10-40:Affordable Housing Strategy and Development Action Plan
very little discussion, the summary of it is that the numbers available are from the Census 2000 data (very out of date) but the report is required by the State to be submitted every five years, (i.e. now) so it will go forward with outdated data. The overall document is very similar to the document and plan already in place and operational.
Pfeffer requested consideration of housing for veterans in addition to the focus already in place on new home buyers and seniors.
Motion to approve, passed 9-0
2. Resolution 10-42:Establishment of North Grove Street Economic Opportunity Area
This proposal is similar to ones passed last year to help provide incentives to businesses to come to Franklin. Hard to say how effective the incentives have been. Zollo requested to present such data as available for future.
Motion to approve, passed 9-0
3. Resolution 10-43:Establishment of South Grove Street Economic Opportunity Area
similar to that already discussed above, no further questions or discussion
Motion to approve, passed 9-0
4. Resolution 10-44: Establishment of Financial Way Economic Opportunity Area
similar to that already discussed above, no further questions or discussion
Motion to approve, passed 9-0
5. Resolution 10-45: Purchase of Land at 459 Pleasant Street-Authorization and Appropriation
Purchase funds coming from the Open Space fund, it is not funds that can be used for operational or capital expenses. Roll call and two thirds vote required to pass.
The purchase price ($320,000) is higher than the assessed value. The house is in poor condition and probably needs to be torn down. It had been inhabited but when visited a couple of weeks ago this was vacant.
Motion to approve, passed 9-0 (unanimous roll call)
6. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 10-645: Site Plan Review & Design Review – 2nd Reading
Motion to approve, passed 9-0
K. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
1 - On going sewer inflow and infiltration system work has reduced from 500,000 to 300,000 gallons per day. The flow goes through the Beaver St interceptor and then to the plant which we pay for. This is a significant reduction and a great cost benefit to the town. I'll get a more complete update on the whole sewer system for the Council sometime this fall.
2 - We will be constructing Wachusetts St over the next several months. Parents will be notified as it will affect the drop off and pick up of students with school in session. The base coat should be done before the winter, we'll let it settle and then do a final coat next year. We'll do our best to ease that inconvenience but we have a lot of work to do.
3 - CGKV Architects have been chosen for the high school renovation project.
4 - Thanks to the Franklin fire fighters for their hard work on the Norfolk fire. They did a tough job in a difficult situation.
5 - Improvements being made to the Spanish War Memorial. Cottage St Sheetmetal did work for us to take the rust off. The paint color to reflect the time period is underway, then it will be epoxied so it will not rust.
Maxim Nordifeld 37 MM
Bob Fahey has some money left over from the major memorial work which is being used to update this memorial. The plaque will be mounted on a granite pedestal. We'll work with the Historic Commission on the guns placement with the memorial.
L. OLD BUSINESS
none
M. NEW BUSINESS
Zollo - ETA on the King St/i495 lights, when will they be fully functional?
Nutting - I don't know exactly but it will be done before the winter. They still have to get the base coat down, I am not sure when they'll do the final coat.
McGann - Jeff is there anyway you can get a report on the water treatment plant on how long it runs and how long it is down? Two retention ponds are right up to the top.
Nutting - I am not sure what it is. It has been down for a month. $5.8 million for the plant. I can get you a report yes.
N. COUNCIL COMMENTS
McGann - What Jeff mentioned earlier, an electrician I have worked with (Bill Nichols) passed away in the fire. Others are in bad shape but recovering.
Thanks to my three neighbors on Lewis St. for their support.
My condolences to Phillip Brunelli and his family on the passing of his mother.
The old police station had been on East St and prior to that had it been the American Legion. The gun had previously been in front of the American Legion for some time, then at a private residence before coming to the Town Common via the DPW.
Where the final placement of the gun will be remains to be determined. We don't want to detract from the names on the memorial.
The gun was on a ship that was retired in 1919 and sold as a yacht to someone in Wisconsin.
Nutting - I'd like to see the Historic Commission help determine where it should be.
The muzzle is full of concrete. There are some around but I am not sure how rare it is.
Pfeffer - I think it is wonderful that we are taking care of this gun but the bottomline is better communication is needed. A long rant ensues but that is the justifiable gist.
The old fire station has been repaired, new carpets, etc. If I see this, then others in town will as well. People get excited about money being spent if there is no money.
Are we in a hiring freeze?
Nutting - Not necessarily, it is on a case by case basis. We haven't hired anybody, we have no plans to do so. There have been no new hires in the last 30-60-90 days.
Mason - on behalf of the council wishing Officer Clifford best wishes on a speedy recovery. He was hit by a hit and run driver while on a construction detail yesterday.
O. EXECUTIVE SESSION – Negotiations, Litigation, Real Property, as May Be Required
not required.
P. ADJOURN
motion to adjourn, passed 9-0
Franklin, MA
Absent: none
A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – July 7, 2010
Motion to approve, passed 9-0
B. ANNOUNCEMENTS - Meetings of the Town Council are Recorded
Change of Council Meeting Dates – Sept. 1 to Sep 8, and Sep 15 to Sept. 29
motion to approve change of Sep meeting dates, passed 9-0
C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS - none
D. CITIZEN COMMENTS - none
E. APPOINTMENTS - none
F. HEARINGS - none
G. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS - none
H. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS - none
I. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS - none
J. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION –
1. Resolution 10-40:Affordable Housing Strategy and Development Action Plan
very little discussion, the summary of it is that the numbers available are from the Census 2000 data (very out of date) but the report is required by the State to be submitted every five years, (i.e. now) so it will go forward with outdated data. The overall document is very similar to the document and plan already in place and operational.
Pfeffer requested consideration of housing for veterans in addition to the focus already in place on new home buyers and seniors.
Motion to approve, passed 9-0
2. Resolution 10-42:Establishment of North Grove Street Economic Opportunity Area
This proposal is similar to ones passed last year to help provide incentives to businesses to come to Franklin. Hard to say how effective the incentives have been. Zollo requested to present such data as available for future.
Motion to approve, passed 9-0
3. Resolution 10-43:Establishment of South Grove Street Economic Opportunity Area
similar to that already discussed above, no further questions or discussion
Motion to approve, passed 9-0
4. Resolution 10-44: Establishment of Financial Way Economic Opportunity Area
similar to that already discussed above, no further questions or discussion
Motion to approve, passed 9-0
5. Resolution 10-45: Purchase of Land at 459 Pleasant Street-Authorization and Appropriation
Purchase funds coming from the Open Space fund, it is not funds that can be used for operational or capital expenses. Roll call and two thirds vote required to pass.
The purchase price ($320,000) is higher than the assessed value. The house is in poor condition and probably needs to be torn down. It had been inhabited but when visited a couple of weeks ago this was vacant.
Motion to approve, passed 9-0 (unanimous roll call)
6. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 10-645: Site Plan Review & Design Review – 2nd Reading
Motion to approve, passed 9-0
K. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
1 - On going sewer inflow and infiltration system work has reduced from 500,000 to 300,000 gallons per day. The flow goes through the Beaver St interceptor and then to the plant which we pay for. This is a significant reduction and a great cost benefit to the town. I'll get a more complete update on the whole sewer system for the Council sometime this fall.
2 - We will be constructing Wachusetts St over the next several months. Parents will be notified as it will affect the drop off and pick up of students with school in session. The base coat should be done before the winter, we'll let it settle and then do a final coat next year. We'll do our best to ease that inconvenience but we have a lot of work to do.
3 - CGKV Architects have been chosen for the high school renovation project.
4 - Thanks to the Franklin fire fighters for their hard work on the Norfolk fire. They did a tough job in a difficult situation.
5 - Improvements being made to the Spanish War Memorial. Cottage St Sheetmetal did work for us to take the rust off. The paint color to reflect the time period is underway, then it will be epoxied so it will not rust.
Maxim Nordifeld 37 MM
Bob Fahey has some money left over from the major memorial work which is being used to update this memorial. The plaque will be mounted on a granite pedestal. We'll work with the Historic Commission on the guns placement with the memorial.
L. OLD BUSINESS
none
M. NEW BUSINESS
Zollo - ETA on the King St/i495 lights, when will they be fully functional?
Nutting - I don't know exactly but it will be done before the winter. They still have to get the base coat down, I am not sure when they'll do the final coat.
McGann - Jeff is there anyway you can get a report on the water treatment plant on how long it runs and how long it is down? Two retention ponds are right up to the top.
Nutting - I am not sure what it is. It has been down for a month. $5.8 million for the plant. I can get you a report yes.
N. COUNCIL COMMENTS
McGann - What Jeff mentioned earlier, an electrician I have worked with (Bill Nichols) passed away in the fire. Others are in bad shape but recovering.
Thanks to my three neighbors on Lewis St. for their support.
My condolences to Phillip Brunelli and his family on the passing of his mother.
The old police station had been on East St and prior to that had it been the American Legion. The gun had previously been in front of the American Legion for some time, then at a private residence before coming to the Town Common via the DPW.
Where the final placement of the gun will be remains to be determined. We don't want to detract from the names on the memorial.
The gun was on a ship that was retired in 1919 and sold as a yacht to someone in Wisconsin.
Nutting - I'd like to see the Historic Commission help determine where it should be.
The muzzle is full of concrete. There are some around but I am not sure how rare it is.
Pfeffer - I think it is wonderful that we are taking care of this gun but the bottomline is better communication is needed. A long rant ensues but that is the justifiable gist.
The old fire station has been repaired, new carpets, etc. If I see this, then others in town will as well. People get excited about money being spent if there is no money.
Are we in a hiring freeze?
Nutting - Not necessarily, it is on a case by case basis. We haven't hired anybody, we have no plans to do so. There have been no new hires in the last 30-60-90 days.
Mason - on behalf of the council wishing Officer Clifford best wishes on a speedy recovery. He was hit by a hit and run driver while on a construction detail yesterday.
O. EXECUTIVE SESSION – Negotiations, Litigation, Real Property, as May Be Required
not required.
P. ADJOURN
motion to adjourn, passed 9-0
Franklin, MA
Survey reminder
The current survey on the new trash and recycle system is open for your input through Aug 14th.
You can find the survey here:
http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/08/new-trashrecycle-status-survey.html
Note: As of 8/5/10 8:00 PM there were 43 responses. Thanks!
Franklin, MA
You can find the survey here:
http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/08/new-trashrecycle-status-survey.html
Note: As of 8/5/10 8:00 PM there were 43 responses. Thanks!
Franklin, MA
In the News - fire, robbery, Norfolk explosion
Follow up articles on incidents previously reported are found in today's issue of the Milford Daily News:
Franklin, MA
Franklin storage facility catches fire
from The Milford Daily News News RSSMasked man tries to rob CVS
Franklin, MA
Thursday, August 5, 2010
New Trash/Recycle Status Survey
Updated: 8/15/10 - the survey is now closed the results are posted and available here.
This survey will remain open until August 14th to allow plenty of time for folks to respond.
Note: email subscribers may need to click through to Franklin Matters to view and respond to the survey.
Franklin, MA
Note: email subscribers may need to click through to Franklin Matters to view and respond to the survey.
Franklin, MA
Franklin, MA: ZBA canceled
THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
HAS NO HEARINGS SCHEDULED
FOR AUGUST 5, 2010.
THE NEXT ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
MEETING IS SCHEDULED FOR
AUGUST 19, 2010.
You can also check the agendas for the Zoning Board of Appeals on the Franklin, MA website:
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_ZBAAgendas/
HAS NO HEARINGS SCHEDULED
FOR AUGUST 5, 2010.
THE NEXT ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
MEETING IS SCHEDULED FOR
AUGUST 19, 2010.
You can also check the agendas for the Zoning Board of Appeals on the Franklin, MA website:
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_ZBAAgendas/
Franklin Citizens Rail Trail Committee Meeting - Agenda - 8/10/10
Proposed Agenda for August 10, 2010
Location: Franklin YMCA 45 Forge Hill Road
Start Time: 7:30PM
I. Call to Order / Introductions of New Attendees
A. Introduction of new attendees
B. Review & approve minutes of previous meeting
II. Report from our representative from DCR
A. Gates & Grading
III. Membership Committee Report (Denison, McKeown, Sawyer)
A. Committee to report on membership activity
IV. Report from Finance Committee (Rossetti)
A. Report from Treasurer
V. Report of Fund Raising Committee (Sawyer)
A. Report on fund raising activities
a. Report Road Race Committee by Dave Labonte
VI. Report from Grant Writing Committee
A. Extend committee with more members & participation
VII. Unfinished Business:
A.
VIII. New Business:
IX. Set Date & place for Next Meeting and Adjourn
More info on the Franklin Citizens Rail Trail Committee can be found here:
http://www.franklinrailtrail.org/
Franklin, MA
Location: Franklin YMCA 45 Forge Hill Road
Start Time: 7:30PM
I. Call to Order / Introductions of New Attendees
A. Introduction of new attendees
B. Review & approve minutes of previous meeting
II. Report from our representative from DCR
A. Gates & Grading
III. Membership Committee Report (Denison, McKeown, Sawyer)
A. Committee to report on membership activity
IV. Report from Finance Committee (Rossetti)
A. Report from Treasurer
V. Report of Fund Raising Committee (Sawyer)
A. Report on fund raising activities
a. Report Road Race Committee by Dave Labonte
VI. Report from Grant Writing Committee
A. Extend committee with more members & participation
VII. Unfinished Business:
A.
VIII. New Business:
IX. Set Date & place for Next Meeting and Adjourn
More info on the Franklin Citizens Rail Trail Committee can be found here:
http://www.franklinrailtrail.org/
Franklin, MA
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Bill Glynn - sit and chat summary
In his lawn chair, one man was reading near the bandstand on the Town Common. The concerts are scheduled for Weds. Was he waiting for the concert? No, Bill Glynn was waiting for folks to show up for the "Sit & Chat".
They did come. By ones and twos, a total of seven. A mother with her children in Franklin schools who also works as a teacher. A father with children in the school whose wife is a teacher. She was at the boys baseball game, so he came. Two more mothers, coordinators for one of the school PCC organizations. Another mother with two little ones just getting into the school system, curious to understand what their future in the schools might be like. Another mother (also a teacher) brought her son who will be a senior at Franklin High in September (yes, he did want to come along).
Curious, they came to see what the discussion would be like.
Curious, they came to talk about Franklin.
Bill stopped reading when I arrived. The conversation circle we started then expanded with each new arrival. Greetings, small talk (how many kids in school, what school, how did you hear about this, etc.) developed a rhythm, a gentle conversation on a summer evening on the Common.
Were the problems of Franklin solved?
No. There are no easy solutions.
Was it beneficial to talk?
Yes, it was good. There are folks concerned about what is happening. There are folks willing to step up and find out what's going on.
How would I summarize the conversation?
Did I miss something? Maybe, I am not perfect.
I think I got the gist of the conversation. Bill does plan to do this again. His August's schedule is already hectic so maybe in September.
My thanks to Bill for taking the time to have this conversation.
Many thanks to those folks who came and hopefully had their curiosity satisfied.
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Stay tuned into what is happening in Franklin. You can subscribe to what is published here via email. One email each day will arrive in your inbox after 9:00 AM with what has been published since 9:00 AM the day before.
You can get a weekly summary via email by subscribing to Franklin Matters Weekly. It will contain a review of the prior week's events and provide an outlook on the coming week. It is meant to be read (or listened to) in about ten minutes. If there is something that you need to get more information on, there are links to provide the additional details. I have not updated it during the summer. So little is happening (and my own travels have taken me away from Franklin). August is already here, September is just around the corner.
For those on Facebook, you can "like" the "I believe Franklin matters" page. Key bits of information from Franklin Matters get posted there.
Note: Bill Glynn is a first term member of the Franklin School Committee.
Franklin, MA
They did come. By ones and twos, a total of seven. A mother with her children in Franklin schools who also works as a teacher. A father with children in the school whose wife is a teacher. She was at the boys baseball game, so he came. Two more mothers, coordinators for one of the school PCC organizations. Another mother with two little ones just getting into the school system, curious to understand what their future in the schools might be like. Another mother (also a teacher) brought her son who will be a senior at Franklin High in September (yes, he did want to come along).
Curious, they came to see what the discussion would be like.
Curious, they came to talk about Franklin.
Bill stopped reading when I arrived. The conversation circle we started then expanded with each new arrival. Greetings, small talk (how many kids in school, what school, how did you hear about this, etc.) developed a rhythm, a gentle conversation on a summer evening on the Common.
Were the problems of Franklin solved?
No. There are no easy solutions.
Was it beneficial to talk?
Yes, it was good. There are folks concerned about what is happening. There are folks willing to step up and find out what's going on.
How would I summarize the conversation?
- Many folks recognize that education is important. Class size increases are not good. People may be surprised when they see the number of kids in their child's room.
- The teachers are not happy with how Mr Roy (Jeff Roy, School Committee Chair) has portrayed the FEA (teacher's union) in the newspaper. If this is his attempt at winning the power struggle, from the teachers perspective, he is hurting Franklin more than he thinks he is winning.
- The change to the six period schedule at the high school has been both good and bad. Good in that the schedule itself works. Bad in that the schedule change has reduced the variety of electives. Bad in that along with other teacher staffing changes, some forced by the budget cuts, some with individual teacher decisions (i.e. retirements), some programs have seen a great deal of change. The example cited was five language teachers in three years. Other students had benefited from the same teacher for the four years in that language.
- The high school student asked how do students get involved? What are the channels available? All are available. Come to the meetings, view via the web broadcast. If they want School Committee people to meet with them that can be scheduled.
- The conversation started too late to get the information out for this years override. People were asking what's happening, what's coming and when it all came out, it was too much, too late.
- Some folks believe Franklin schools have always been good. They don't realize that in the 70's the school system was not well respected.
- Some parents may be choosing to send their kids to Xaverian and other private high schools. It may be good that they can afford to do so but their students still end up at Westfield or Framingham. The belief amongst some parents is that the preparation at Franklin High is really better than that which could be obtained elsewhere. So while they can afford to pay for a private high school what are they really buying? What are they saving?
- The concern is that while the students education has been preparing them for the evolving world at the high school today, will the preparation of the students in the lower grades now be sufficient to help them be ready for high school when they go there? Bill shared that in his work with college deans, they have expressed that their concern is many students coming to college are not prepared for it. In that case, the parents end up paying for the remedial study for the students. So what have the parents really saved?
- What will the high school be like when today's elementary and middle school students get there? What will class sizes be like then? What programs will be available then? Will it be renovated?
- Would there be two overrides next year? Technically, there could be one override for the operational budget in May/June 2011. There could also be a debt override for the high school renovation later in 2011 (Nov/Dec), if the current state planning schedule holds.
- How do we get the information out? Reach out to the pre-school mothers. Reach out to all the youth sports groups. Continue the forums, the PCC meetings, the standard notifications. We need to find out how to reach the folks to help them realize that it matters to them. To their home values, to their children's future.
Did I miss something? Maybe, I am not perfect.
I think I got the gist of the conversation. Bill does plan to do this again. His August's schedule is already hectic so maybe in September.
My thanks to Bill for taking the time to have this conversation.
Many thanks to those folks who came and hopefully had their curiosity satisfied.
-------------
Stay tuned into what is happening in Franklin. You can subscribe to what is published here via email. One email each day will arrive in your inbox after 9:00 AM with what has been published since 9:00 AM the day before.
You can get a weekly summary via email by subscribing to Franklin Matters Weekly. It will contain a review of the prior week's events and provide an outlook on the coming week. It is meant to be read (or listened to) in about ten minutes. If there is something that you need to get more information on, there are links to provide the additional details. I have not updated it during the summer. So little is happening (and my own travels have taken me away from Franklin). August is already here, September is just around the corner.
For those on Facebook, you can "like" the "I believe Franklin matters" page. Key bits of information from Franklin Matters get posted there.
Note: Bill Glynn is a first term member of the Franklin School Committee.
Franklin, MA
Franklin, MA: Concerts on the Common
Reminder:
Wed Aug 4th - Frank Padula Band (6:30 PM to 8:30 PM)
Children's Program: Elaine Kessler, Story Teller (6:00 PM to 6:30 PM)
Franklin, MA
Wed Aug 4th - Frank Padula Band (6:30 PM to 8:30 PM)
Children's Program: Elaine Kessler, Story Teller (6:00 PM to 6:30 PM)
Franklin, MA
FSPA presents Shakespeare on the Town Common, plus
The Third Annual Whatever Theatre Festival
Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) is pleased to announce that the Third Annual Whatever Theater Festival will take place from Wednesday, August 4through Saturday, August 7, 2010. The Festival’s events include Shakespeare on the Common, a medley of one-act plays, The Game Show of Game Shows, and a hilarious and entertaining Soiree.
The Festival’s medley of one-act plays will be presented at Franklin School for the Performing Arts, 38 Main Street, Franklin on Wednesday evening, August 4th at 8:00 p.m. and Saturday afternoon, August 7th at 3:00 p.m. The wonderful collection of short plays ranges from silly and strange to mysterious and thought provoking.
The Festival will feature Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night on Thursday, August 5th and Friday, August 6th at 8:00 p.m. The play will be staged on The Franklin Town Common and is free to the public.
The cast also will perform The Game Show of Game Shows on Saturday, August 7th at 7 p.m. at The School on 38 Main Street in Franklin.
To conclude the Whatever Theater Festival, the cast will present a Soiree on Saturday, August 7th at 9:00 p.m., also at The School. Guaranteed to be a night full of laughter, the Soiree features both prepared and improvisational pieces. Past soiree numbers have ranged from song and dance numbers to hula-hoop acts!
The box office for the Whatever Theater Festival can be reached at (508)-528-8668. There will be no charge for the Shakespeare performances on the Franklin Town Common. Tickets for the other performances are $10 for adults and $5 for students at the door.
Franklin, MA
Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) is pleased to announce that the Third Annual Whatever Theater Festival will take place from Wednesday, August 4through Saturday, August 7, 2010. The Festival’s events include Shakespeare on the Common, a medley of one-act plays, The Game Show of Game Shows, and a hilarious and entertaining Soiree.
The Festival’s medley of one-act plays will be presented at Franklin School for the Performing Arts, 38 Main Street, Franklin on Wednesday evening, August 4th at 8:00 p.m. and Saturday afternoon, August 7th at 3:00 p.m. The wonderful collection of short plays ranges from silly and strange to mysterious and thought provoking.
The Festival will feature Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night on Thursday, August 5th and Friday, August 6th at 8:00 p.m. The play will be staged on The Franklin Town Common and is free to the public.
The cast also will perform The Game Show of Game Shows on Saturday, August 7th at 7 p.m. at The School on 38 Main Street in Franklin.
To conclude the Whatever Theater Festival, the cast will present a Soiree on Saturday, August 7th at 9:00 p.m., also at The School. Guaranteed to be a night full of laughter, the Soiree features both prepared and improvisational pieces. Past soiree numbers have ranged from song and dance numbers to hula-hoop acts!
The box office for the Whatever Theater Festival can be reached at (508)-528-8668. There will be no charge for the Shakespeare performances on the Franklin Town Common. Tickets for the other performances are $10 for adults and $5 for students at the door.
Franklin, MA
In the News - rain gardens
Garden to clean stormwater in Franklin
by Additional information on the Charles River clean up can be found here:
http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/06/costs-of-charles-river-cleanup.html
Franklin, MA
Franklin, MA: Traffic Alert
Chestnut Street, from E Central Street (Rt 140) to Jordan Road will be closed to through traffic on Wednesday August 4 2010 from 7am to 4pm.
You can subscribe to receive news like this directly to your email by following the steps here:
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/subscriber-news
You can subscribe to receive news like this directly to your email by following the steps here:
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/subscriber-news
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Franklin, MA: Police alert - injured officer status
I saw helicopters circling above i495 earlier today and couldn't find out what was up. Now this Franklin Police alert fills in the details.
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Updated: 8/8/10
Boston Herald says Ari has a record:
http://news.bostonherald.com/news/regional/view/20100806alleged_hit-run_driver_busted_twice_at_hotels/
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Note: The police officers working on details are working on their own personal time earning extra money and money for Franklin. Franklin charges the contractors for the detail services which covers the cost of the police officers time, plus. This information has been confirmed in prior budget meeting discussions with police and town personnel.
Franklin, MA
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On Tuesday, August 3, 2010 at 11:30 am Franklin Police Officers responded to a report of a police officer that had been struck by a motor vehicle while on paid detail duty at the intersections of King Street and Route 495 in Franklin. The suspect vehicle described by witnesses as a small red car fled the scene leaving the officer, 25 year police veteran Edward Clifford on the roadway. Franklin Firefighters were luckily on scene and immediately rendered first aid to Officer Clifford. Clifford was transported by Franklin Fire to the Milford Whitinsville Regional Hospital for injuries suffered. His condition is good as he was released and is recovering at this time at home.
Witness accounts of the accident and subsequent investigation resulted in the arrest of Ari C. Cunard, age 25 of 301 Union Street apartment 220 in Franklin for the offenses of Leaving the Scene of a Personal Injury Accident and Operating a Motor Vehicle so as to Endanger the Lives and Safety of the Public. Cunard was located at her home address and subsequent to questioning by Franklin Police Officers admitted to having been the operator of the suspect motor vehicle, a 2006 Red Chevrolet Cobalt Massachusetts registration 698ES6. The suspect vehicle was located in the rear parking area of 301 Union Street where Ari Cunard resides. Ari Cunard was booked for the above listed offenses and held in the Franklin Station until released on bail for appearance in the Wrentham District Court on Wednesday the 4th of August.
Updated: 8/8/10
Boston Herald says Ari has a record:
http://news.bostonherald.com/news/regional/view/20100806alleged_hit-run_driver_busted_twice_at_hotels/
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Note: The police officers working on details are working on their own personal time earning extra money and money for Franklin. Franklin charges the contractors for the detail services which covers the cost of the police officers time, plus. This information has been confirmed in prior budget meeting discussions with police and town personnel.
Franklin, MA
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