Wednesday, August 8, 2012

Business Tax Breaks in Massachusetts



MassBudget    Information.
   Participation.
 Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center    Democracy.
Business Tax Breaks in Massachusetts
Tax breaks are a form of spending. Money that the state spends on tax breaks is money that it can't spend on education, infrastructure, or other forms of economic development.

Our new report, Business Tax Breaks in Massachusetts, describes the various types of business tax breaks in Massachusetts and shows how much the state spends on each. It focuses most directly on what we call special business tax breaks, meaning those tax breaks which: 1) apply to businesses, and 2) have as their most basic rationale the effort to bolster economic development.*

We find that:
  • In FY 2012, the state spent $770 million on special business tax breaks.
  • Since FY 1996, spending on special business tax breaks has increased 60%, adjusted for economic growth.



To accompany this report, we are also releasing a two-page Factsheet which describes the major findings.


* Other kinds of business tax breaks include those designed to minimize double-taxation and those which mirror the federal tax code.

The Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center (MassBudget) produces policy research, analysis, and data-driven recommendations focused on improving the lives of low- and middle-income children and adults, strengthening our state's economy, and enhancing the quality of life in Massachusetts.

MASSACHUSETTS BUDGET AND POLICY CENTER
15 COURT SQUARE, SUITE 700
BOSTON, MA 02108
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This email was sent to shersteve@gmail.com by nberger@massbudget.org |  

Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center | 15 Court Square | Suite 700 | Boston | MA | 02108

Wedding dresses weren't always white

The Milford Daily News has an article on the wedding dress exhibit currently showing at Franklin's Historical Museum. Wedding dress through the ages are displayed so you can see the changes and development.
"In Victorian times, everything was covered, whereas now — how do I put this diplomatically — everything is exposed," she said. 
In contrast to the symbolic bride of the present, who practically glows as she walks down the aisle in her milky white gown, Ferguson said gowns for much of the 1900s were beige or off-colored. 
Pure white gowns did not emerge until the 1960s, she said.

Franklin's Historical Museum is located at 80 West Central St.
http://www.franklinhistoricalmuseum.com/p/location-and-hours.html

Read more of the article here: http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/x866121845/Franklin-exhibit-traces-gowns-through-the-years#ixzz22weB6k19

Singleton Gains Endorsements


FRANKLIN—Matt Kelly and Glenn Jones, two members of Franklin's Town Council, have announced their official endorsement of Stolle Singleton for State Representative in the 10th Norfolk District. Stolle, a Franklin resident, is running in the Republican Primary on Thursday, September 6th.
"I am deeply honored to have the support of Matt and Glenn, who have both given so much to Franklin in their roles as Town Councilors," said Stolle Singleton.  "It is a privilege to call these gentlemen my friends and their expertise regarding the needs of the Franklin community, as public servants, engaged citizens, and family-men, will be invaluable throughout my campaign and beyond."
On the endorsement, Matt Kelly said, "Stolle has a proven track record at the State House as a policy advisor and will continue to keep Franklin and Medway moving forward as our next State Representative. She is dedicated to Franklin, Medway and the Commonwealth and I believe she is the best candidate in this race because she will ensure that our communities have an experienced voice to represent the interests of our residents in the Massachusetts House."
"I am happy to endorse Stolle Singleton as she is by far the best choice for Franklin and Medway," said Glenn Jones.  "Stolle is a dedicated, energetic, and flexible advocate who has first-hand experience on Beacon Hill and will work tirelessly as a full-time legislator to secure the many needs of our communities."
Stolle Singleton has spent the past two years working as a policy analyst for the 33-member Republican Caucus in the Massachusetts House of Representatives. During her time at the State House, she authored over 17 pieces of legislation and numerous amendments to state budgets and bills, some of which were signed into law. Previously, she interned in former Massachusetts Senator Scott Brown's Office and the Office of Legislative Education.
Stolle's legislative experience will enable her, from day one, to be an effective leader in crafting policies to restore our economy, maintain our local aid, and bring accountability to State Government.

Tuesday, August 7, 2012

School Committee: Action items


4. Action Items
a. I recommend acceptance of the donation of a $100.00 Office Depot gift card and 5 large one-topping pizza’s from the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society for the HMMS for raising $2,067.47 for Pennies for Patients. motion to accept, passed  6-0

b. I recommend acceptance of the donation of a Selmer Liberty Tenor Sax from the McLean Family valued at $1200.00 for the Remington Middle School.   motion to accept, passed  6-0 


c. I recommend acceptance of a check for $282.66 from Wells Fargo (Douglas Lee) for the FHS.    motion to accept, passed  6-0

d. I recommend acceptance of a check for $50.00 from Stephanie & Michael Quinn for the FHS Schaeffer memorial scholarship.   motion to accept, passed  6-0

e. I recommend acceptance of a check for $25.00 from Judi Hershman for the FHS Schaeffer memorial scholarship.   motion to accept, passed  6-0

f. I recommend acceptance of a check for $10.00 via Just Give as an anonymous donation from Capella University for FHS scholarships.    motion to accept, passed  6-0

g. I recommend acceptance of the donation of CPR Mannequins valued at 1109.00 from Roberta Trahan for the District.    motion to accept, passed  6-0

h. I recommend acceptance of a check for $20.00 from Sheila Hooper for the FHS Schaeffer memorial scholarship.    motion to accept, passed  6-0

i. I recommend approval of the Elementary and Middle School’s Handbooks as presented.   motion to accept, passed  6-0


If you are not registered for the bus, it is too late!

Real-time reporting: School Committee (via cable broadcast)

Per the transportation update at Tuesday's School Committee meeting, the school transportation process started in April with a registration deadline of June 30. The second payment was due July 9th. Reminders went out to the parents/families who needed to complete their payments. There are still about 50 accounts that need to get completed. High school and middle school buses are currently full. No additional registrations are being accepted.

Once school begins in Sep, ridership on the routes will be measured and if additional capacity is available, there may be adjustments by the end of Sep.

The bus routes are scheduled to be posted to the School's website by the end of next week.
Bus passes for the Charter School will be available Aug 21 and for the other Franklin students Aug 27th.

Bus fees are $325 per student with a cap at three students paying within one family ($975).

Students K-6 who live outside of 2 miles from school are eligable for a 'free' ride. Students at middle school and high school and all other K-6 less than 2 miles can register for 'pay to ride'.

There are approx 1500 in the 'pay to ride' program currently with another 500+ in the 'free ride' program.

Attention: Businesses and Organizations - Registration is Open for the Franklin Harvest Festival


Franklin's Harvest Festival is set for Sunday, September 30, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Franklin Downtown Partnership is already planning for this fun event, which they expect will draw about 5,000 visitors to town. Organizers have set a registration deadline of August 20 for crafters, vendors, artists and community groups who want to participate in this year's festival.

The Harvest Festival will be held rain or shine, and booth space is limited. The booth fee for non-Partnership members is $125, and the food vendor fee is $175. A late charge of $25 will be added for registrations received after August 20 if there is booth space still available.

Event details and registration forms can be downloaded from the Partnership's website, www.franklindowntownpartnership.org. This year's booth chairperson, Mary Graff, can be contacted at mgraff@berryinsurance.com. Co-Chair Jeanne Sherlock is planning the entertainment and children's area fun and can be reached at jeannes@hockymca.org.

Sponsors are still needed to fund this festival. As a non-profit organization, the Downtown Partnership depends on sponsors to fund this and other efforts, including Beautification, the Strawberry Stroll and the Holiday Stroll.

In the News: summer stage, youth sports



FSPA Summerstage presents ‘You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown’

Area Sikhs: Shootings 'a sad teachable moment'

Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:

via The Milford Daily News News RSS by Matt Tota/Daily News staff on 8/6/12

149130 MA_MD_milfordsikh1.jpg
Simran Kaur believes ignorance might have motivated the gunman who killed six people at a Sikh temple in Oak Creek, Wis., on Sunday.  "I think it was a hate crime," she said Monday at the Sikh temple in Milford.

Things you can do from here:

Boston Heart Walk - Sep 15 - help the Baby Beats!

From the Amante Family:
Welcome to the fundraising page for team Baby Beats. We have been raising money for the Heart Association since 2002! Just two weeks after Damian's third open heart surgery we attended our first Heart Walk in New York. 
Funds donated to the Heart Association go toward life saving research, techniques and equipment.

Damian has directly benefited from projects that were funded by the Heart Association.

We celebrate Damian and the victory over his struggles by raising money to support this important organization.

Please support our team by donating to the Heart Association! Thank you!

You can find the fund raising page here

Monday, August 6, 2012

Uncas Pond

Having heard of Uncas Pond here and here, I decided a needed to go exploring to find it. Sunday was humid. I needed a little extra incentive to run in the heat. I decided that since Uncas Pond was off Summer St, I'd go find it. Finding it would give me an excuse to stop for pictures (and rest as well).


The water looked inviting but it was behind a securely locked fence so I didn't venture forth.



Updated 8/6/12 7:00 PM

The Franklin Rod and Gun Club is located at the end of Florence St. Access to the pond appears to be via the Club property or one of the neighboring private properties actually is available from a dirt parking lot on the left of Florence as you approach the end of the road.

Access is outlined on this photo:


My thanks to Franklin Matters reader Rich for the correction and photo!

For more information on the Franklin Rod and Gun Club, you can visit their website  http://franklinrodandgun.org/


BTW - According to their web page, they are still looking to find "Declan F". Declan won the 12 and under trophy for their recent tournament and left without getting the trophy!


"give their time and effort"

In addition to being a 'high performing' school district, Franklin is fortunate to have the Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter School as well. Was it mentioned in this article? No.
Ultimately, the overriding factor determining whether a charter is approved by the state has less to do with where it is and more to do with why it's being proposed, said J.C. Considine, a spokesman for the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. 
"I don't think there's a preference," he said. "Where there's a need and demand is shown, we're open to considering strong proposals in really any region." 
There's also nothing inherent to MetroWest that would make it objectionable to potential founding groups, said Brown, who added a town like Framingham, with its growing non-English speaking population, could be a good site for a charter school specializing in language education.

Read more: http://www.metrowestdailynews.com/news/x1602167970/Despite-high-interest-at-some-schools-charter-movement-slow-to-catch-on-in-MetroWest#ixzz22l970Ycu

For additional information on the Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School you can visit their web page  http://bfccps.org/


"find a way to balance clinical work with research"


Kalutkiewicz, who will be a senior biology major at the University of Massachusetts Amherst in the fall, has been working on a 10-week summer research fellowship at the university. Supported by the heart association, her full-time project is on cell division. 
"Cells have to establish a plane of division," Kalutkiewicz said. "We’re looking at how they divide." 
This is not the first time the UMass Amherst senior has been a part of scientific research. She also participated in studies at Tufts, where the focus of the projects was similar to hers: cells and genetics.

Read more: http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/x1602168073/Franklin-woman-has-passion-for-life-sciences#ixzz22l7Uweso

T.O.P.S. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) - Up Coming Event


Would you please put this event in Franklin Matters in time -- Sept. 15th.  The organization is T.O.P.S. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly)?  Thank you.  Faith Flaherty, TOPS Leader

T.O.P.S.  Inspiration Workshop 

Inspire each person to manage their nutrition and life in ways that will help each person.  T.O.P.S. is a support group that aims to promote health and well-being nutritionally.  T.O.P.S. mission is to support our members as they take off and keep off pounds sensibly. 

When:    Saturday, September 15, 2012Where:  Franklin Senior CenterTime:    8:30 AM registration  9:00 - 12:00 programCost:     Free




More information on TOPS can be found on the national TOPS webpage here http://www.tops.org/



Sunday, August 5, 2012

Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - Aug 7, 2012


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."

1. Routine Business
Citizen’s Comments
Review of Agenda
Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the July 17, 2012 School Committee Meeting.
Payment of Bills – none Mrs. McIntyre
Payroll Mrs. Douglas
FHS Student Representatives
Correspondence:
1. Budget to Actual – Miriam Goodman

2. Guests/Presentations
a. Athletic Fees – Brad Sidwell
b. Handbooks – Sally Winslow

3. Discussion Only Items
Enrollment Update
Transportation Update

4. Action Items
a. I recommend acceptance of the donation of a $100.00 Office Depot gift card and 5 large one-topping pizza’s from the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society for the HMMS for raising $2,067.47 for Pennies for Patients.
b. I recommend acceptance of the donation of a Selmer Liberty Tenor Sax from the McLean Family valued at $1200.00 for the Remington Middle School.
c. I recommend acceptance of a check for $282.66 from Wells Fargo (Douglas Lee) for the FHS.
d. I recommend acceptance of a check for $50.00 from Stephanie & Michael Quinn for the FHS Schaeffer memorial scholarship.
e. I recommend acceptance of a check for $25.00 from Judi Hershman for the FHS Schaeffer memorial scholarship.
f. I recommend acceptance of a check for $10.00 via Just Give as an anonymous donation from Capella University for FHS scholarships.
g. I recommend acceptance of the donation of CPR Mannequins valued at 1109.00 from Roberta Trahan for the District.
h. I recommend acceptance of a check for $20.00 from Sheila Hooper for the FHS Schaeffer memorial scholarship.
i. I recommend approval of the Elementary and Middle School’s Handbooks as presented.

5. Information Matters
Superintendent’s Report
School Committee Sub-Committee Reports
School Committee Liaison Reports

6. New Business
To discuss future business that may be brought before the School Committee.

7. Executive Session
Approval of Executive Session minutes from 4/10/12, 5/22/12 & 6/12/12 meetings. Contractual Negotiations

8. Adjourn

10th Norfolk: Republican Debate


The three republican candidates will step to the debate on Tuesday, Aug 28th in the Town Council Chambers at 7:00 PM

Additional details can be found on Facebook


For additional information on each candidate, you can visit their websites:



C Stolle Singleton   http://www.votesingleton.com/


"worth every bit of effort we put in"


On Saturday, about 2,700 bikers began the longest route of the Pan-Mass Challenge, 192-mile Sturbridge to Provincetown, in the pre-dawn fog. They will rest up in Bourne Saturday night before climbing on their bikes again early Sunday morning. 
In all, thousands of cyclists will have traveled through Sutton, Northbridge, Uxbridge, Mendon, Bellingham, Franklin, Wrentham, Plainville, Foxborough and Norfolk by Saturday evening. 
Since 1980, the bike-a-thon has, through the Jimmy Fund, raised $338 million for the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston. Last year, the PMC raised $35 million, and this year’s goal is $36 million.

Read more: http://www.metrowestdailynews.com/news/x1602167844/Pan-Mass-Challenge-rolls-through-MetroWest#ixzz22fWUnEvj

If you have not contributed to a rider or a team you can still do so on the Pan-Mass web page here
https://www.pmc.org/donation.asp

In the News: Army grad, school gardens


Franklin man completes the Army's toughest schools



School gardens a growing idea in the region

Saturday, August 4, 2012

RT 140 nicely paved

RT 140 was nicely paved on Wednesday as scheduled. Some finishing work is still required to complete the set up in advance of the Big Y opening on Aug 23.


The road has been widened. Lane lines will need to be added. The traffic lights are in place and will need to be activated.



Harmony from the Heart - Sep 15


Mary and Kai Olsson are pleased to once again host HARMONY FROM THE HEART, a concert fundraiser to benefit the Center for Platelet Research Studies at Boston Children's Hospital, to support the vital research that saved their son's life. 
Date: September 15, 2012
Location: The Adirondack Club: Franklin, MA 
Boston Children's Hospital provides every kid the best care possible. Children's has been nationally ranked as one of the best pediatric hospitals for almost two decades. They care for more than 500,000 patients every year – many with health problems no other hospital in the world can handle. Every day, the doctors and nurses at Children's combine courage, creativity and compassion to provide life-changing care. 
The Olsson's hope you will consider supporting Harmony from the Heart's fundraising efforts for not only the kids at Children's, but for all who will benefit from this vital research. 
You can find their fund raising page here



Friday, August 3, 2012

Farmers Market - Blueberry Picking


The Farmers Market is open today on the Town Common from noon to 6:00 PM.

Franklin, MA: Farmers Market

You can pick your own blueberries today and tomorrow from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM


More info on Gianetti's blueberries can be found here
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2012/07/gianettis-u-pick-blueberries-newsletter.html


Where in Franklin is the Town Common?


View Larger Map

Talent at Franklin High School (video)

Some of the teachers, faculty and staff at FHS know how to have a good time!



Enjoy!

10th Norfolk Democrat Debate - video


The video of the Democratic Candidate Debate on Monday evening is now available for replay:

http://view.liveindexer.com/ViewIndexSessionSL.aspx?ecm=634795355508885000&indexSessionSKU=n0i8L3XRGsloBIb3aj/POA%3D%3D&siteSKU=L7qhQ46xin/r3Z0jcDVCNw%3D%3D


Related posts:
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2012/07/showed-just-how-closely-aligned-they.html

http://www.franklinmatters.org/2012/07/more-questions-for-democratic-debate.html


Franklin Public Library: Davey the Clown

Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:

via Franklin Public Library by Franklin Public Library on 8/2/12



Things you can do from here:

Thursday, August 2, 2012

"an appropriate first response"

National Grid is beginning to respond to their service issues in Franklin. As posted yesterday, they are beginning to trim trees around the power lines.

National Grid this week began isolating the trees around the poorest performing circuits as targets for trimming. And it recently briefed Department of Public Works Director and Tree Warden Robert Cantoreggi. 
Cantoreggi said Wednesday National Grid does not plan to perform any clear cutting and will only prune and trim around lines. "For any specific tree take down, they would have to come before us," he said. "If (the tree) is a hazard tree or a dead tree, we would probably let them do it. If it is a healthy tree, we would have to have a hearing."

Read more: http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/x1602166441/National-Grid-responds-to-Franklin-officials-criticism#ixzz22Ne1wMKH

In the News: local band, well offline


Local band makes familiar music

MassDOT RMV Customer Service: New Number

Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:

via Commonwealth Conversations: Transportation by Klark Jessen on 8/1/12

RMV New PhoneNumber, August 1, 2012
MassDOT today announced a new telephone number for Registry of Motor Vehicles business and transactions, 857-DOT-8000/857-368-8000.
The number is live today and serves the RMV's Call Center which answers an average of 45,000 calls each month.
"The Call Center is one part of our customer-service oriented operation and serves a population accustomed to receiving assistance and performing transactions with a helpful voice on the other end of the line," said Registrar of Motor Vehicles Rachel Kaprielian.
Over the next year, customers will become familiar with the 857-DOT area code and exchange as MassDOT offices across the Commonwealth transition to the new number. The telephone transition will result in annual phone bill and maintenance savings of approximately $422,000.
"Transportation Reform continues with 857-DOT," said MassDOT Secretary and CEO Richard A. Davey. "We are replacing the antiqued and redundant telecom systems of the RMV, Turnpike, MassHighway and Executive Office of Transportation to realize significant savings and improve customer service."
The RMV's new telephone number, 857-DOT-8000 is being advertised inside Registry branches, on the MBTA system and through the Highway Division's digital billboard PSA program throughout the month of August.
In addition, more than two dozen RMV transactions may be performed online at mass.gov/RMV.

Things you can do from here:

Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Art show: Tom Rose, Aug 3, 7:00 to 9:00 PM

Maybe you read about the Franklin Art Center in the August edition of the localtownpages Franklin:


The calendar project collaborating with local artists and the Historical Museum is a great idea!

Would you like to know about the Franklin Art Center? Come on down to see the Photography Show Friday, August 3, from 7 to 9 PM. Tom Rose, from Medfield, will be showcasing his work. "Tom is known for not manipulating his photos".

For more about the Franklin Art Center, visit their web page http://franklinartcenter.com/

To read the online version of the Franklin Town News, visit the web page here http://www.franklintownnews.com/


Note: my daughter Allison works there as an art instructor


Another unfunded mandate?

A news release from State Senator Karen Spilka's office touts a new pilot program to provide services to children in trouble outside of the existing court process. This sounds good. Tucked away in the details is this line:
Requires school districts to establish truancy prevention programs that would be offered to habitually truant students before referring them to juvenile court.
That sounds a lot like an unfunded mandate to me.


The full detail of the release from Sen Spilka's office:
The Legislature today sent to the Governor legislation that will update the current system for handling children who consistently get in trouble at home or at school, including runaways and students who are habitually truant, transforming the 38-year-old Children in Need of Services (CHINS) program that critics say unnecessarily puts troubled children in front of a judge before seeking services to help the children and their families. 
“The current system is too complex and too confusing, and it unnecessarily drags some children in front of a judge over and over again,” Senate President Therese Murray (D-Plymouth) said. “More than half of these children have some kind of mental health disorder and need better care and services instead of this taxing exposure to the courts which studies show will make them more likely to be involved in serious crimes later in life. The reforms in this bill will improve children’s lives and help keep families together.” 
“I am proud that Chairman Dempsey, Leader Donato, members of the conference committee and the Legislature as a whole have taken strong action to protect at-risk youths,” said House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo (D-Winthrop). “We need to get many of these children out of the legal system and into services and other support programs with their families so we can best ensure that they lead lives as productive residents of our state. These are practical reforms that help children and families in the short term and strengthen the Commonwealth in the long-term.” 
“For several decades, the CHINS system has not been working as intended by the legislature to keep children out of the juvenile justice system,” said Senator Karen Spilka (D-Ashland), chief Senate sponsor of the bill. “It is difficult to overestimate the importance of passing this critical reform. This bill will give the thousands of children and families who need assistance each year a clearer path to accessing the services and supports they need without exacerbating their situation and before it becomes dire. The bill will make a huge, positive difference in the lives of our families, our friends, our neighbors, our communities, and will strengthen our state as a whole.” 
“This legislation would be the first step in replacing the existing “Children in Need of Services” (CHINS) system – which is not meeting the needs of children and families in the Commonwealth,” said Third Division Chair Paul Donato (D-Medford). “This reform will replace CHINS in the future with a new system that will provide preventative services and keep children in their homes and schools without overburdening courts, police and probation. It will create a statewide system of community-based programs that will provide direct access to mental health or substance abuse counseling.” 
“This legislation is important to address the needs of children and families across Massachusetts,” said Senator Jennifer Flanagan (D-Leominster), a conferee and Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “Children in the CHINS system are an extremely vulnerable population and it is incumbent upon us, as public officials, to improve the manner in which services are received. I’m proud of this legislation for enhancing the process by which families are able to request and receive services for their children. I am confident that many provisions in this legislation will enhance the ability to help these families and ultimately strengthen the foundation for their future." 
“Through this legislation, the conferees were able to agree to this thoughtful approach that moves us in the right direction of reforming the CHINS system,” said House Committee on Ways and Means Chairman Brian S. Dempsey (D-Haverhill). “I feel strongly that the pilot programs created by this legislation will allow us to accurately identify families and children who can be better served by alternative services to the court system.” 
“I am pleased the Legislature has made this bill a priority prior to adjournment,” said Senator Michael Knapik (R-Westfield), the ranking Republican member of the conference committee. “By incorporating families into the process and keeping juveniles out of the court system, I am confident this bill will connect at-risk youth with the appropriate resources so that behavior modification and counseling can have the desired long-term impact.” 
“This reform will strengthen families, guide children away from the criminal justice system, and reduce costs by focusing resources on prevention rather than punishment. It makes sense on many levels and I am pleased it received bipartisan support,” said State Representative Dan Winslow (R-Norfolk), who previously served as a District Court Judge. 
The bill breaks down barriers between the juvenile court, parents and the community, and it creates a second access point for children to receive necessary services. 
The pilot program, established under the Executive Office of Health and Human Services, diverts children from the legal process when appropriate and instead provides behavioral, medical and mental health treatment and a number of other behavioral and preventative services including special education evaluations, mentoring, family and parent support, and after-school and out-of-school opportunities. 
The bill also:
  • De-stigmatizes the process by deleting the “CHINS” label for children receiving services;
  • Decriminalizes the process by prohibiting children requiring assistance from being arrested, confined in shackles or placed in a court lockup in connection with any request for assistance;
  • Focuses on the child and family as a unit – not just the behavior of the child – and allows the parents to be full and active participants in their child’s proceedings;
  • Ensures that the child and family fully understand procedures by requiring that information be given to parents in writing at the beginning of the court process;
  • Creates a realistic timeframe for children and families to receive the necessary services; and
  • Requires school districts to establish truancy prevention programs that would be offered to habitually truant students before referring them to juvenile court.
Finally, the bill creates a standardized data collection system to evaluate outcomes and ensure the Commonwealth and the child appropriately benefit from the new system.

More information on Senator Karen Spilka can be found on her webpage  http://karenspilka.com/

In the News: trail denied, chemical spill, sue Franklin



Franklin man's bid for new trial denied

Tuesday, July 31, 2012

"showed just how closely aligned they are on issues"

The Milford Daily News reports on the Democratic candidate debate:
With a little more than a month before the Sept. 6 primaries, Jeffrey Roy and Peter Padula, both of Franklin, have been campaigning since April, striving to define themselves to voters in the 10th Norfolk District, which consists of Franklin and parts of Medway. 
Standing before more than 50 people packed in Town Council chambers at the municipal center, both candidates pushed home the importance of securing local aid for Franklin. 
"I think the most important job for me is to maintain levels of local aid that Franklin has come to rely on to inform its budget," Roy, a Franklin Town Council member and attorney, said.

Read more: http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/x1253624465/Democrats-meet-in-debate-for-Franklin-Medway-seat#ixzz22BvAiJm4

The debate was moved to the Council Chambers due to a power outage that affected the Horace Mann Middle School area as well as other parts of Franklin. The Council Chambers is not generally used for political events but an exception was made in this case to accommodate the event at the last minute.

The event was broadcast via Franklin TV. It is not yet ready for viewing on demand but will be soon. You can follow this link to select the event to view.
http://view.liveindexer.com/ViewCalendar.aspx?siteSKU=L7qhQ46xin%2fr3Z0jcDVCNw%3d%3d


Alert: Paving on RT 140 reduced to one way Aug 1

Franklin has announced that RT 140 will be reduced to one lane for paving to begin on Aug 1. The details are contained in this notice:



Jordan Road and Chestnut St will be the alternate route for westbound traffic. Traffic heading to Wrentham will be slowed to one lane through the work zone.

Why I, C. Stolle Singleton, am running for State Representative in the 10th Norfolk District

This press release from C Stolle Singleton arrived in email Monday night:
I believe that now is the time to usher in a new generation of innovative ideas and fresh, energetic leadership for Franklin, Medway, and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. This is why I am running for State Representative in the 10th Norfolk District.

A recent CNBC survey of “America’s Top States for Business” revealed that Massachusetts ranks 49th for the “cost of doing business.” In other words, Massachusetts is nearly the most expensive state to run a business in the United States, second only to Hawaii. The Democratic Super Majority on Beacon Hill has done far too little to address high taxes, rising healthcare costs, staggering electricity prices, and excessive government regulation. As a result, this collective burden continues to suppress economic growth, discourage job creation, and drive countless Massachusetts businesses and families to relocate to other states. 
I am running for State Representative because I hope to buy a home and to start a family in Massachusetts and I want the best possible opportunities for my family and yours. My younger sister and I cherished growing up in Franklin and I want my grandchildren and yours to choose to raise their families in our community. I believe that Massachusetts can and should be a place where businesses and families decide to – and can afford to – put down roots, grow, and prosper. 
While I anticipate that some may make my age an issue during this race, I am more concerned about the age of the old ideas that led us to struggle every year to sustain our local aid for essential services, led us to implement a regressive sales tax increase in the height of the Great Recession, and left us with a lack of oversight over government benefits, such as the cash assistance given out on EBT cards. My generation is inheriting a mess associated with poor decisions and a lack of balance on Beacon Hill, so it is unequivocally the time for a woman my age to take a stand. 
Furthermore, I am running for State Representative because I want to ensure that Franklin and Medway continue to have a strong advocate for our community’s interests on Beacon Hill. With the unique perspective and invaluable experience of having already worked for the House of Representatives, I know how to get things done. This legislative session I drafted over 17 pieces of legislation, several of which were passed into law. My legislative experience means that I understand how to reach across party lines to preserve our local aid and the Chapter 70 funding for our community’s exceptional public schools. In short, from day one I will be an effective leader in crafting meaningful reforms and guiding them through the legislative logjam.
Public service is a privilege and if I am afforded the privilege of representing the residents of Franklin and Medway, I will work full-time to give back to the district where I learned that hard work, compassion, and perseverance will be met with success. 
If you believe in a Massachusetts that can do better, please vote C. Stolle Singleton in the Republican Primary on Thursday, September 6th.
For additional information on her campaign, you can visit her website
http://www.votesingleton.com/

Nation Grid tree work to start

Posted on the Franklin, MA website:
Beginning in August, Asplundh Tree Company will be performing work on behalf of National Grid. Crews throughout town will be cutting, clearing, pruning and removing trees around electrical transmission lines. The work is expected to last into mid September. Any questions should be directed to National Grid Arborist David W. Donaghue at 508-482-1242.

Monday, July 30, 2012

Debate moved to Council Chambers - Municipal Bldg


Received an update on tonight's debate: 
In case you didn't hear, due to a power outage at HMMS, the debate has been moved to the Council Chambers at the Franklin Municipal Building. Still starts at 7:30 PM

More questions for Democratic Debate

The debate this evening will NOT be available live via cable. It will be recorded and available for replay. So you'll have a choice of watching the Olympics, the Red Sox or coming out to the debate in person!

In addition to the questions posted yesterday, I have come up with some more.

Why am I posting the questions in advance?
One, the issues we face shouldn't be a secret.
Two, it is more important to find out what the answers to these questions are.

Franklin and most MA communities are faced with Other Pension and Employee Benefits (OPEB) requirements that are underfunded. What is your position on what the Legislature can do to help?

Gov Patrick is reported to be signing the Casino proposal for Taunton today. At least one news article says it will be challenged because the return to the state is “excessive”. Whether you’ll get a chance as a legislator to have a vote in that matter is open right now. What do you think about casinos as a source of state revenue?

There has been talk of the Legislature revising the Chap 70 funding formula. Franklin is a significant beneficiary of these funds. What would be your position on a revision of the formula?

What is your position on the State budget priorities? Should MA government focus on infrastructure (roads, bridges, etc.) or education, or??

What is your position on taxes overall? How should the business of providing government services be funded?

What is your position on usage fees? Are there cases where it makes sense to use them in lieu of a more broadly based tax?

What is your position on the governance of utilities, their service rates and performance?

The Franklin library, along with other departments in Franklin, faces an annual budget issue. The MA Library Board of Governors is the body that provides oversight to the library systems. What is your position on what the Legislature should or should not do to help?






Big Y traffic controls in blinking mode

The final preparations to repave RT 140 in front of the new Big Y are underway.

Big Y: getting ready to pave RT 140


The top layer of RT 140's surface has been removed in preparation for a new layer of asphalt.

Big Y: getting ready to pave


New traffic controls are in blinking mode.

Big Y: traffic controls


All this in preparation for the Aug 23rd opening for the Big Y

Related posts on the Big Y:
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2012/07/big-y-hitting-mailbox.html

http://www.franklinmatters.org/2012/07/franklins-big-y-getting-ready.html

http://www.franklinmatters.org/2012/06/big-y-plans-to-hire-150-plus.html

In the News: performing arts, recycling



Chinese educator at home in Franklin

Sunday, July 29, 2012

Big Y hitting the mailbox

If your house is anything like mine, you have now received the third mailing from the Big Y. Each mailer opens to tout that they "not just another grocery store". In the past two weeks, there have been coupons. The coupons all are valid from Aug 23rd (the store opening day) until Sep 19.


Big Y - Franklin, MA

In related news, for those wishing that this had been a Trader Joe's - they will open at Patriot Place on Sep 7th


What about the debate?

The Democratic candidates are having a debate on Monday evening, July 30. The Thomas Mercer Auditorium at Horace Mann Middle School will be the location for this event. It begins at 7:30 and should end by 9:00 PM.

More details here
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2012/07/10th-norfolk-democratic-candidate.html

If you have a question you'd like to ask the candidates, you can add your question to the list here
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2012/07/what-would-you-ask-candidate.html

The current list of questions can be found here
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2012/07/10th-norfolk-collected-questions-for.html

10th Norfolk: Collected questions for Democratic debate

My questions:

What have you done or are planning to do to prepare for serving Franklin in the Legislature?

Two part Q: What do you see as Franklin’s key issue at the State level and how do you plan to address it?

Do you have any relationships with folks in or around the State House or in the Legislature that you can leverage when you are in office to help serve Franklin? Please elaborate.

Based upon the flyer on the door, it seems like you are both walking the neighborhoods. What is one thing that going door to door does for your campaign?

How much will websites and other social media tools help your campaign?

Questions submitted by others in Franklin:

If elected what changes would you propose to help commuters from Franklin/Medway afford to get into Boston for work?

What are your thoughts about the MA higher education costs. Is there anything you would propose to help more students afford MA State higher education?

Local officials often complain to voters that costly state mandates tie their hands and prevent them from making common-sense fiscal policies for the town. What will you do as state rep to remove burdensome state mandates and un-tie local officials' hands?

What will be your priorities if you are selected to serve in the state legislature?

How can we make health care in Massachusetts more affordable for the commonwealth, cities, towns, businesses and individuals?

How do you feel about what Gov Patrick has done so far about containing health care costs?

My question to all is This... I think all of you are educated well, are lawyers and have held local seats on a board but what Policical experience so you have that I may not know about that you feel makes you qualified to be sucessful at this job?


Don't see a question topic here that you would like an answer to, add yours to the mix via email or the form here  http://www.franklinmatters.org/2012/07/what-would-you-ask-candidate.html