Boston: Fun After Dark

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Everyone knows that the real fun starts after dark. After the sun sets on Copley Square on Friday and Saturday, join me and some of my closest friends for After Dark. It's all part of the Boston Globe WGBH Summer Arts Weekend, presented by Citizens Bank. Buy tickets now for the exclusive After Dark performances. Spend Friday evening jamming with Dr. John and Della Mae. Come back Saturday night for a toast with Angelique Kidjo and Red Baraat. Get tickets right now, and use the member discount code (WGBH20) to save 20 percent. After Dark is the only place to see the biggest acts from BSAW's big stage playing together at a cocktail party for an intimate audience. And I hope that audience includes you. Brian O'Donovan Artistic Director, Boston Summer Arts Weekend Host, A Celtic Sojourn on 89.7 WGBH Boston Public Radio PS – After two late nights, don't forget about the Baroque Brunch on Sunday, July 28. Tickets are on sale. WGBH members save 20% on tickets for a limited time (use code WGBH20).

WGBH | One Guest Street | Boston, MA 02135 | 617-300-5400Privacy Policy | Pledge & Renew

Music Boosters: Car wash at Uno's July 27

The Franklin High School Music Boosters is hosting a car wash on Saturday, July 27th from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Uno's in Bellingham. The group is raising money to help send the high school's music groups to perform at Disney world during the school's April vacation. The bands and vocal groups will be performing in Florida. 

The Music Boosters will have a series of fundraisers throughout the year, including a collection at Stop and Shop in Franklin on August 10 and 11.

Franklin Library: Teddy Bear Picnic

Teddy Bear Picnic

teddy bear picnic

Franklin Public Library - 118 Main Street Franklin MA 02038 - 508.520.4940

In the News: RMV regionalization, food collection

Milford RMV branch could close with state plan

A state Department of Transportation plan to regionalize the Registry of Motor Vehicles could mean the Milford branch would close.

St. Vincent dePaul of St. Mary's in Franklin plans food collection

The Society of St. Vincent dePaul of St. Mary’s Church in Franklin will hold its monthly food collection at all Masses the weekend of Aug. 3 and 4.

Ramsey Musallam: "3 rules to spark learning"

It took a life-threatening condition to jolt chemistry teacher Ramsey Musallam out of ten years of “pseudo-teaching” to understand the true role of the educator: to cultivate curiosity. In a fun and personal talk, Musallam gives 3 rules to spark imagination and learning, and get students excited about how the world works.

For more about Ramsey, you can visit his TED bio page http://www.ted.com/speakers/ramsey_musallam.html

Sir Ken Robinson: "How to escape education's Death Valley"

Sir Ken Robinson outlines 3 principles crucial for the human mind to flourish -- and how current education culture works against them. In a funny, stirring talk he tells us how to get out of the educational "death valley" we now face, and how to nurture our youngest generations with a climate of possibility.

For additional info on Sir Ken Robinson including links to additional TED Talks you can visit
http://www.ted.com/speakers/sir_ken_robinson.html

Free the grapes! (video)

In the midst of vacation season, wouldn't it be nice to be able to ship some wine back home to MA.

Massachusetts wine lovers still cannot purchase wines directly from out-of-state wineries. But the legislature is now considering House Bill 294, a favorable bill that would replace an unconstitutional law with a proven solution. However, some Massachusetts package stores and the politically powerful wholesalers remain opposed to consumers choosing their own wine 

2013 is going to be the year for consumer choice in wine, but we need your help:

Step 1: Spread the word: Tell your friends about us on Facebook (and share our page, Facebook.com/freethegrapes) 

Step 2: Write your legislator! This is really easy (and quick) to do online through our Action Alert! 

Step 3: Join our email list: You’ll need to know the bill number as soon as we have it, so join the email list and we’ll keep you up-to-date on the latest news.

For more information, you can visit the "Free the grapes" website
http://freethegrapes.org/massachusetts-2013/

School Calendar Survey Results

Here is the summary of the Franklin Public Schools "Calendar Survey" conducted in May/Jun of this year

For the record, results from the last survey in 2008 can be found here

http://www.franklinmatters.org/2008/11/live-reporting-school-calendar-survey.html

Angela Lee Duckworth: "The Key to Success? Grit"

Leaving a high-flying job in consulting, Angela Lee Duckworth took a job teaching math to seventh graders in a New York public school. She quickly realized that IQ wasn’t the only thing separating the successful students from those who struggled. Here, she explains her theory of “grit” as a predictor of success.

For more about Angela, you can visit her TED page http://www.ted.com/speakers/angela_lee_duckworth.html

Food recycling as a climate issue (audio)

Why is food recycling a climate issue?

Recently the U.S. joined the U.N. in launching programs to combat food waste. Fortunately, right here in Arlington we already have a great model for doing just that. Our guest on this edition of the Climate Hawk Companion is DeAnne Dupont, has been walking the talk, and was instrumental in establishing the Minuteman Food Recovery Project as a collaboration between the Minuteman High School Parent’s Association and Sustainable Arlington. 

The project collects from Panera Breads, Trader Joe’s and other local businesses in the Arlington, Massachusetts area and distributes it to people who need this food. This makes for a better community and fewer greenhouse gases. Listen to the podcast to catch up on how it all works.

Other organizations mentioned during this podcast are:
Loving Spoonfuls Boston  http://www.lovinspoonfulsinc.org/

What is happening here in Franklin?
The Franklin Food Pantry coordinates pickups from many local businesses to support the clients the Food Pantry serves. Periodic pickups from Panera Bread, BJ Warehouse, Trader Joe's, Stop and Shop, The Cake Bar, etc. are coordinated and conducted by Food Pantry volunteers. If the pickup is of a quantity that the Food Pantry can't use within the window for the item, the Food Pantry does share with the Senior Center and other places where the items can be used.

The anaerobic digestion process was proposed for the former sewer facility in Franklin based upon the new state regulations. If you haven't heard about the regulations, you can find out more here
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/07/a-solution-that-meets-multiple-economic.html

For more about the anaerobic digestion proposal discussed at the Town Council meeting
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/06/anaerobic-digestion-tabled-in-franklin.html

For more about the anaerobic digestion proposal discussed at the Planning Board meeting
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/06/anaerobic-digestion-is-not-recommended.html

This was cross posted to
http://www.franklinfoodpantry.org/2013/07/food-recycling-as-climate-issue-audio.html

Franklin High School - construction update - July 2013

There are some significant developments with the new high school construction.

new entrance traffic pattern

The entrance off Oak St is now two way

new exit traffic pattern

Because the road normally used to exit is now closed off and under construction

the parking lot is under construction

as is the entire parking lot closet to the field house

construction of the walls

this is by design so the parking lot will be completed before Sep 2013

hey, that's cool

someone likes that idea!

brick work continues

the brickwork noticed the last time we visited is making good progress

brick work along the back right corner

the bricked sections are spreading along the back and right side of the building

gymnasium section

the far left corner where the gymnasium will be located is roofed and the walls are starting to fill in

panorama from across the fields

the panorama from the Horace Mann parking lot

Farmers Market - noon to 6:00 PM

Another Friday, another day for the Farmers Market.

Farmers Market

Come to the Town Common between noon and 6:00 PM for fresh goods and produce from local farms and shops.

Geoffrey Canada: "Our Failing Schools.Enough is Enough!"

Why, why, why does our education system look so similar to the way it did 50 years ago? Millions of students were failing then, as they are now -- and it’s because we’re clinging to a business model that clearly doesn’t work. Education advocate Geoffrey Canada dares the system to look at the data, think about the customers and make systematic shifts in order to help greater numbers of kids excel.

You can find out more about the Harlem Children's Zone  http://www.hcz.org/hcz-home.php

ISO New England Requests Voluntary Electricity Conservation

While the heat wave continues to steam us all, there is a request to minimize electricity use where possible. The following document makes several suggestions on how this could be accomplished:




This notice was originally posted to the Franklin website here
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_News/01B4E8F4-000F8513

In the News: Fire Dept to hire 4 with grant

Grant would allow Franklin fire dept. to hire four

The Fire Department expects to hear as early as Friday whether it received a federal grant that will allow it to hire four firefighters, erasing the manpower shortage that has plagued its operations.

The Master Plan is here, the Master Plan is here!

The Master Plan Committee made its presentation to the Franklin Town Council on Wednesday evening.

Master Plan Committee

From left to right Councilor Matt Kelly, State Rep Jeff Roy (Committee Chair), Councilor Andy Bissanti, Christine Apicella, Chris Vericker, David Dobrzynski, and Nathan Carlucci. Tim Twardowski also presented a section but was not present at the time the photo was taken.

The Master Plan has been in a state of revision for the past several years with several efforts underway on sections of the full plan. The full plan was pulled together and updated over the past year with this committee. There will be a public hearing at the Franklin Library, Saturday, August 10th, 10:00 AM. Comments on the plan will be accepted through 1:00 PM on Friday August 16. The comments will be incorporated into a final draft to be presented to the Town Council at the Sep 18th meeting. There is a Planning Board meeting scheduled Sep 9th.

Franklin, MA: Master Plan draft for review by Steve Sherlock

The full Master Plan document can be found on the Franklin website here
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Planning/masterplandoc/doc.pdf


The remainder of the Town Council meeting as captured in the notes as reported live on Weds can be found here

• Live reporting - closing
• Live reporting - Master Plan Committee Report
• Live reporting - Facilities
• Live reporting - Town Council - Jul 17, 2013
• 
  

Malcom London: High School Training Ground" (video)

From TED Education earlier this year:

Young poet, educator and activist Malcom London performs his stirring poem about life on the front lines of high school. He tells of the “oceans of adolescence” who come to school “but never learn to swim,” of “masculinity mimicked by men who grew up with no fathers.” Beautiful, lyrical, chilling.

3 minutes




For additional TED Talks you can visit their website:  http://www.ted.com/

Zentangle for Ages 11 & Up

Zentangle for Ages 11 and Up

zentangle for ages 11 and up

Franklin Public Library - 118 Main Street Franklin MA 02038 - 508.520.4940

"the roadmap on Franklin’s future"

The Master Plan draft was presented to the Town Council on Weds evening and summarized by the Milford Daily News here:

The 12-person committee introduced the draft master plan, a document used by officials to inform long-term planning, to Town Council on Wednesday, formerly beginning the public comment process. 

On Aug. 10, there will be a public hearing on the master plan, and the committee will continue accepting public comments until Aug. 16. The Planning Board and council are expected to adopt the final version of the plan in September. 

State Rep. Jeffrey Roy, D-Franklin, the chairman of the committee, asked the council to establish an implementation committee to assure that the master plan is put in place and does not sit on a shelf, unseen and unused. 

"We really want to make this a living document, take it off the shelf and show what we can do," Roy said.

Read more: http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/x946753476/Franklins-updated-master-plan-unveiled#ixzz2ZO4PKKvk

Links to the Master Plan document and and the complete presentation used for the Town Council meeting can be found here
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/07/live-reporting-master-plan-committee.html

Live reporting - closing

I. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
none

J. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
1. Resolution 13-56: The Woodlands - Approval of Amendment to Regulatory Agreement and Transfer of Ownership
motion to waive the reading, approved
motion to move the resolution, seconded

Cerel - the developer failed, the bank took over, the issue from the town perspective is concerned with the housing association maintaining
located off Maple St, over i495 into Bellingham

regulations don't provide guidance for this, advice to approach the town
thanks to the Town Administrators office for crafting the amendment so that the development is marketable
the bank has lost money, the original developer lost money, we need someone to come in to operate the septic system and operations take place with the housing association

8 built and sold, 16 permitted, looking to move the remaining 8 units

motion approved, 7-0 (no roll required at this point as Councilor Mercer dropped off)


2. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 13-718: Changes to §185-7. Compliance Required – 1st Reading
motion to continue to Aug, passed 7-0


K. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
spraying to kill the weeds is underway

the dams at DelCarte are complete, railings to be added, on schedule for playground

regional dispatch on docket at the State

Planning workshop on the 31st at 7:00 Pm

Conservation commission meeting on sidewalk for Panther Way scheduled for tomorrow night

T to repair the rook on the station in August

thanks to the 4th of July committee for a great job

Street plan for downtown now at 100% to go out for bid this fall, construction to begin next spring (2014)

Aug 19th building committee meeting also the presentation by the architect for Davis Thayer

L. OLD BUSINESS
what is time frame for removal of portables for Davis Thayer?
Next July, then Kennedy after

CSX rep to either clean it up or let the Town purchase the land at the corner of Cottage/Union
an offer had been made previously, they had refused before

possible grant coming to allow pay of four firefighters for two years
will help with staffing and reduce overtime

M. NEW BUSINESS

Pfeffer - continuing to drive the issue with the Facilities and access
Nutting - all those things existed when we left it in 2004, it has been valuable temporary space, it has met current code, it is not worth bringing up to code. We have limited staff.
Pfeffer - I give up


N. COUNCIL COMMENTS

Roy - the regional dispatch bill did pass both house and senate this week, on Governor's desk as of Monday.

Bissanti - condolences to the Colace family

Jones - looking to move the anaerobic digestion back to the forefront, the state has just released the plans to

Pfeffer - I am giving up but only for tonight

Powderly - will Lincoln be closed?
Nutting - no, one lane traffic, it will take some time, want to get much done before the school re-opens in Sep

Powderly - thanks for the 4th committee for rallying; thanks for implementing the anonymous comments


P. ADJOURN

Live reporting - Master Plan Committee Report

Councilor Jeff Roy introduced other members present this evening
public comment period on the plan opens tonight, will return Sep 18th for Town Council approval


The Master Plan document can be found here
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Planning/masterplandoc/doc.pdf


A set of documents is coming out of this process

• goals and policies
• existing conditions
• implementation plan

Franklin, MA: Master Plan draft for review

Councilor Bissanti reviewed section "Land Use"

Councilor Kelly reviewed "Economic Development"

Christine Apicella   reviewed "Circulation" (which covers all modes of transportation)

Chris Vericker reviewed the "Housing" section

Tim Twardowski reviewed the "Natural, Cultural and Historic Resources"

David Dobrzynski reviewed the "Open Space and Recreation" section

Nathan Carlucci reviewed the "Community Services and Facilities"


Roy recommends a committee to monitor the implementation of the Master Plan

The report itself is 289 pages, and in spirit of being green, there are copies available via the website (see link above)

Public comment open through Fri, Aug 16th at 1:00 PM
will take the feedback and rework as required to bring to the Town Council for final approval in Sep.

Public Hearing at the Franklin Public Library Sat Aug 10th, 10:00 AM

Planning Board meeting date should be Sep 9th (doc shows 18th)

The school's strategic plan and goals and objectives are linked to and incorporated within the Master Plan

Powderly - thank you, commendation to all for the coordination on something that is actionable

Jones - thanks to all for stepping up to the plate on the hard work and effort to bring this to where it is today
what items are already being worked on? would be good to note that these are underway

Nutting the 1997 Master Plan while not adopted was referenced as necessary, the 2008 Open Space Plan, the Housing Plan was worked on, there was a lot more work behind the scenes by the staff that helped before the committee was appointed. It is not over yet but all the good things are the results of the good work from the employees and volunteers.

Roy - everyone who was consulted stepped up to provide as much information as required. The existing conditions report highlights what has been done. Jeff Nutting has been accomplishing great things for this community.

Live reporting - Facilities

H. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS
Mike D’Angelo, Richard Gaskins

overview of work order process for maintenance within all the Franklin buildings, including the schools
general submittal may take one or two days

Note - dial connection lost for remote participation of Councilor Mercer. He had commented earlier that if he lost connection again he would not re-dial to avoid the hassle for the group

normal easy work orders get approved right away and get into the queue for work. Others requiring more extensive work, or outside work require approval of a facility approval

usually 80-100 work orders open at any time
closing out the work order in a more timely manner; information to close not always readily available
also noting drive-by work is not always recorded

Pfeffer - request for ladders in all buildings?
Gaskins - all the faclities have ladders, an upgrade to better ladders is underway

Pfeffer - what about the roof leaks?
D'Angelo - leaks on single layer buildings are standard we do them all the time

Pfeffer - I am not going to keep you, I am the one complaining the most
there must be a better way to take care of these roofs and the lighting ballasts

Kelly - it could take one or two days to approve/
Gaskins - if it is a higher priority, they would generally call so it would not take that long

Jones - how often do you review the safety measures with the fire chief? I ask because some of the lights in Davis Thayer are non-functional
D'Angelo - we walk through the buildings with the Fire Dept in spring before the issuing of the occupancy permits. Most issues do not apply to us. Paper stacked in the wrong space. The principal would be working with their staff.

D'Angelo - if they are unlit they should be replaced via a work order

Jones - I'd like to know how quickly the issues on the Fire Dept listing get fixed.
D'Angelo - ours get fixed quickly

Gastins - I'd like to commend the custodians on their work, school got out late and they are working hard. It is still the same amount of work to be done

Live reporting - Town Council - Jul 17, 2013

Present: Mercer (remote), Kelly, Powderly, Vallee, Pfeffer, Jones, Bissanti, Roy
Absent:  Dellorco

Town Administration: Nutting, Kinheart, Cerel

A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
none

B. ANNOUNCEMENTS
This meeting is being recorded by Franklin TV and shown on Comcast channel 11 and Verizon channel 29. This meeting may be recorded by Franklin Matters.

C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS
none

D. CITIZEN COMMENTS
none

E. APPOINTMENTS
none

F. HEARINGS
Zoning Bylaw Amendment 13-718: Changes to §185-7. Compliance Required
motion to move hearing to next council meeting, passed 8-0 via roll call

motion to amend move to Aug 7th meeting, passed 8-0 via roll call

G. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS
Change of Manager, New Officers and Director – Shaw’s Supermarkets, Inc.

motion to approve,  passed 8-0 via roll call

Survey says: school should start after Labor Day

Survey says, Franklin should start school after Labor Day. This is one of the key results from the survey conducted by the Franklin Public Schools in May/Jun this year. Twice the number of responses were received for the school calendar survey than were received when it was last conducted in 2008.

Other findings from the survey:

• keep the day before Thanksgiving as a no-school day
• schedule professional development days on Mondays and Fridays
• keep the Feb and April vacations however there are enough willing to look at a calendar that would just have a March vacation week

The full survey results will be shared with us later. I'll update this post as soon as they are available.

The modular units at Jefferson were taken down by the DPW already and the landscaping for where they were is already underway.

A new company will be handling some of the van service that had been covered by Franklin's participation in a collaborative. The School Dept will save approx.$80,000 and improve the service with this new company. Parents and students targeted to use this service will be invited to meet at Parmenter sometime later this summer to see the equipment and meet with the company drivers.

The full set of notes from the School Committee meeting reported live on Wednesday can be found here:

• Live reporting - action items and closing
• Live reporting: School Committee - July 16, 2013

For the record, results from the last survey in 2008 can be found here

http://www.franklinmatters.org/2008/11/live-reporting-school-calendar-survey.html

Concerts on the Common: Electric Youth

WEDNESDAYS 6:30 PM TO 8:30PM

CHILDRENS PROGRAMS 6:00PM TO 6:30 PM

Concerts on the Common

July 17th = Electric Youth


For more info on Electric Youth and the Franklin School for Performing Arts, you can visit their website
http://www.fspaonline.com/calendar-detail.php?event=Electric+Youth+Free+Summer+Concerts&eventID=549&t=1374033600&h=95AgNr0Yi3zzo

In the News: dirt bike injuries, flag football, casino money

Franklin man suffers head, stomach injuries after fall from dirt bike

A 42-year-old local man suffered severe head and abdominal injuries on Monday after a dirt bike accident off Forge Hill Road.

Franklin Rec offering flag football for grownups

Love the thrill of playing Flag Football but too old to join the kids league? Well you’re in luck -- adult flag football is now in Franklin and it will be sweeping the town quickly. Sign up now to enjoy the fun.

Surrounding towns want casino money

Although it is too early to know what type of sweeteners Milford casino developers could offer surrounding towns, those communities are making it clear they will want something, officials said Tuesday.

Live reporting - action items and closing

4. Action Items
a. I recommend approval of two DECA trips: State Competition in Boston MA 3/6/14-3/8/14; and the International Competition in Atlanta, GA from 5/2/14 – 5/7/14 as detailed.
motion top approve, seconded, passed 7-0

b. I recommend acceptance of a check for $430.00 from the Davis Thayer PCC for music equipment.
motion top approve, seconded, passed 7-0

c. I recommend acceptance of a check for $1500.00 from Fidelity Charitable Gift Foundation for a field trip for FHS.
motion top approve, seconded, passed 7-0

d. I recommend acceptance of a check for $310.00 from AIM Management Inc. for ASMS.
motion top approve, seconded, passed 7-0

e. I recommend acceptance of a check for $2600.00 from the Franklin Music Boosters for the FPS Music Department.
motion top approve, seconded, passed 7-0

f. I recommend acceptance of the donation of a Clarinet, valued at approximately $150.00 from Susan Childers for the Franklin Music Program.
motion top approve, seconded, passed 7-0

g. I recommend acceptance of a check for $800.00 from the Franklin Music Boosters for the FPS Music Department.
motion top approve, seconded, passed 7-0

h. I recommend acceptance of a check for $218.58 from Ahold Financial Service for Remington Middle School.
motion top approve, seconded, passed 7-0

i. I recommend approval of the request of FHS to declare Tech. items as surplus as detailed.
motion top approve, seconded, passed 7-0

5. Information Matters
Superintendent’s Report
a busy summer, programs kicked off after July 4th
middle and high school summer programs successful
letter from a parent about "Math Camp" asking to consider running the camp for a longer period in the summer, the program has made a difference to the students

modular units at Jefferson are now gone
DPW working on the landscaping for the site where the units were

calendar survey has closed, interesting data
done a little different than last time
purposeful decision to avoid by parent vs staff, not conducive to the core values of the community
start after Labor Day may be coming next year, need to get out of the current high school hence the earlier start for this coming school year
next year due to the move into the new school, likely to start after Labor Day (2014)
10% more wanted the start after Labor Day

much more interest in the March vacation alternative than the last survey results
65% were interested in this type of calendar, should do the calendar 2 years out to allow for planning

no school the day before Thanksgiving, strong indication to keep this per survey

Scheduling of PDD to schedule those on Mon and Fri, 92% responded to this question, highest overall response

doubled the response this time over the last time, out for 6 weeks with multiple reminders via ConnectEd


School Committee Sub-Committee Reports
none

School Committee Liaison Reports
none

6. New Business
To discuss future business that may be brought before the School Committee.
none

Motion to go to executive session, not to return to open meeting

Live reporting: School Committee - July 16, 2013

Present: Douglas, Donahue, McIntyre, Rohrbach, Mullen, Trahan, Jewell
Absent: none

School Dept: Sabolinski, Goodman

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.

1. Routine Business
Citizen’s Comments 
none

Review of Agenda


Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the June 25, 2013 School Committee Meeting.
motion to accept minutes, seconded, passed 7-0

Payment of Bills Mrs. McIntyre
motion to approve, seconded, passed 7-0

Payroll Mrs. Douglas
motion to accept minutes, seconded, passed 7-0

FHS Student Representatives


Correspondence: None

2. Guests/Presentations
a. None

3. Discussion Only Items
- Van Pool Update
Sabolinski recapping service that had been provided by a vendor, looked for a new vendor to see if the service could be improved. Van Pool from Worcester area, looking to expand to the MetroWest area. Focused on service to students, the vans were in excellent shape, conducted due diligence, shared routes and currently evaluating that savings may be around $80,000 by going alone instead of using the prior service through the collaborative. Will be hosting a day at Parmenter to introduce the service to the parents, students to the new company and equipment being used. Some of the runs will be more efficient and effective than previously used. Should be off and running Aug 1 with new company and new contract.

Were paying an overhead that didn't cover the discount provided. 

A student in a wheel chair was sent in a separate vehicle and incurring a separate charge previously. Now, the student will be combine with others going to the same place hence more efficient.


- Enrollment Update
as of Apr 270 enrolled, 309 now, an increase of 39
births in the town are down significantly, lower birth rate over the next 5-6 years
anticipated not just here but elsewhere due to the economy

Jefferson grade 4 highest needs, Oak St grade 4 and others in this category

Q - on how the class sizes are being addressed.
A - 2 students are currently unassigned, one likely to go to Jefferson for the 4th grade, principals meeting weekly to plan and review the numbers and student details

Kennedy 5th had large class sizes as it has moved through the school
Elementary principals are talented ar working together, effective at advocating for their school but they are good collaborating with each other to make a good decision for the district

Franklin Library: Mike the Bubble Man

Summer Program: Mike the Bubble Man

Mike the Bubble Man

Franklin Public Library - 118 Main Street Franklin MA 02038 - 508.520.4940

In the News: heat wave, cancer treatments

As area communities prepare for the latest heat wave, the Milford Daily News provides a summary:

In Franklin, Senior Center Program Coordinator Sue Barbour said the center would stay open until 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday if the temperature stays in the 90s. 

Hardware stores in the area were also feeling the effects of the heat, as air conditioners were flying off the shelves. 

At Daddario Hardware and Supply in Franklin, owner Jack Daddario said there has been a very high demand for "any type of cooling device."

Read more: http://www.milforddailynews.com/blog/healthconscious/x946752669/Milford-area-towns-ready-for-heat-wave#ixzz2ZCRucNDV



Alternative treatments for cancer are being explored

Ellmore’s story inspired Franklin native Paul DeGrazia, who has the same type of cancer and was diagnosed the same week, to seek out alternative treatments. 

“We tried the traditional treatment, but they said it was inoperable and incurable and basically said they had a 10 percent chance of healing him,” Lynn DeGrazia said of her husband’s treatments. 

For eight months, Paul received treatment at Dana Farber, but when the chemotherapy and radiation actually grew his tumor, closing up his esophagus and causing him to need a feeding tube, the family looked for other options.

Read more: http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/x946752677/Milford-resident-Franklin-native-receive-alternative-cancer-treatments#ixzz2ZCTEERvR

Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - Jul 17, 2013

A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

B. ANNOUNCEMENTS
This meeting is being recorded by Franklin TV and shown on Comcast channel 11 and Verizon channel 29. This meeting may be recorded by Franklin Matters.

C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS

D. CITIZEN COMMENTS

E. APPOINTMENTS

F. HEARINGS
Zoning Bylaw Amendment 13-718: Changes to §185-7. Compliance Required

G. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS
Change of Manager, New Officers and Director – Shaw’s Supermarkets, Inc.

H. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS
Mike D’Angelo
Master Plan Committee

I. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS

J. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
1. Resolution 13-56: The Woodlands - Approval of Amendment to Regulatory Agreement and Transfer of Ownership
2. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 13-718: Changes to §185-7. Compliance Required – 1st Reading

K. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

L. OLD BUSINESS

M. NEW BUSINESS

N. COUNCIL COMMENTS

O.EXECUTIVE SESSION
Negotiations, Litigation, Real Property, as May Be Required

P. ADJOURN

The documents as released for this meeting can be found here
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_CouncilAgendas/2013/July%2017,%202013.pdf

To view the full Master Plan 2013 as drafted find this link (170+ pages PDF)
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Planning/masterplandoc/doc.pdf

The smile on her face tells the story! (video)

If through an accident you lose the use of your legs, does that stop you from enjoying life?



Duct Tape Surfing from Mark Tipple on Vimeo.


The smile on her face tells the story!


Thanks to Patti Digh for finding and sharing this
http://www.37days.com/2013/07/sunday-sounds-and-sights.html

"issues through a different lens"

Madalyn Becker, an FHS graduation now a junior studying at the Univ of Delaware, is on a volunteer trip to Morocco.

"In terms of my own experience I know that before I started my studies at (the University of Delaware), I knew relativity nothing about Islam or Muslim cultures," she wrote in a lengthy response to emailed questions. "What I knew was mostly from the media, which largely focuses on negative connotations. I think that this is not uncommon among a lot of Americans. 

"This is not to say people are actively seeking to only see the bad in other people, but it takes some conscious effort to have an educated and understanding perspective." 

College, as it often does for America’s youth, prompted her to rethink many of her prior misconceptions about Muslims. Still, beyond the lectures, she yearned for first-hand knowledge. "I think that even as a student who specializes in the area of international relations, there is often a gap between what we read and write and discuss in class and the reality of how people interact and view one another," she wrote. "I felt like this was the perfect opportunity to sort of fill in those gaps and cultivate a stronger foundation for my studies."

Read more: http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/x1580227922/Franklin-High-grad-attempts-to-tear-down-barriers-in-Morocco#ixzz2Z6bL6ofb

Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - Jul 16, 2013

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.

"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 June 25, 2013 School Committee Meeting.
Payment of Bills Mrs. McIntyre
Payroll Mrs. Douglas
FHS Student Representatives
Correspondence: None

2. Guests/Presentations
a. None

3. Discussion Only Items
Van Pool Update
Enrollment Update

4. Action Items
a. I recommend approval of two DECA trips: State Competition in Boston MA 3/6/14-3/8/14; and the International Competition in Atlanta, GA from 5/2/14 – 5/7/14 as detailed.
b. I recommend acceptance of a check for $430.00 from the Davis Thayer PCC for music equipment.
c. I recommend acceptance of a check for $1500.00 from Fidelity Charitable Gift Foundation for a field trip for FHS.
d. I recommend acceptance of a check for $310.00 from AIM Management Inc. for ASMS.
e. I recommend acceptance of a check for $2600.00 from the Franklin Music Boosters for the FPS Music Department.
f. I recommend acceptance of the donation of a Clarinet, valued at approximately $150.00 from Susan Childers for the Franklin Music Program.
g. I recommend acceptance of a check for $800.00 from the Franklin Music Boosters for the FPS Music Department.
h. I recommend acceptance of a check for $218.58 from Ahold Financial Service for Remington Middle School.
i. I recommend approval of the request of FHS to declare Tech. items as surplus as detailed.

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. Adjourn

Zentangle Class this week at Jane's Frames

Zentangle Class Dear Steve, You are invited to attend my first Official  class of presenting Zentangle,  onThursday, July 18th, 6:15-8:15 at Jane's Frames The cost of this 2 hour class is $35.00, it includes the Zentangle kit, so you can continue creating your tangles at home. Please RSVP soon as the class is filling up! As I am now a Certified Zentangle Teacher I may now add CZT after my name! After 14 months of enjoying the relaxing and inspiring process of creating Zen-tangles,  In June, I was fortunate enough to attended a three day class, along with over 100 attendees from all over the world, taught by Marie Thomas and Rick Roberts, the founders of Zentangle. What is Zentangle? Zentangle is an easy-to-learn, relaxing, and fun way to create beautiful images by drawing structured patterns.  Almost anyone can use it to create beautiful images. It increases focus and creativity, provides artistic satisfaction along with an increased sense of personal well being. The Zentangle method is enjoyed all over this world across a wide range of skills, interests and ages. For more information go to QUICK LINKS A very Special Thank you goes to my friend Cathy Corcoran, a true Angel on earth, who introduced me to Zentangle over 14 months ago. I have been enjoying this relaxing and inspiring process ever since. It was through Cathy's joy of presenting what she loves, generosity of spirit and inspiration that drew me into the world of tangling. I am forever grateful! Joyfully and Thankfully Yours, Jane Curran, CZT Jane's Frames Zentangle Class Relaxing & Eye Opening Quick Links www.zentangle.com www.janesframes.com www.tanglepatters.com A sample of creations from an Zentangle Class of first time tanglers.

Forward this email Jane's Frames | 11 East Central Street | Franklin | MA | 02038

7th annual Hockomock Area YMCA Triathlon

Swim, bike and ride at the 7th annual Hockomock Area YMCA Triathlon on Sunday, July 21st at Lake Pearl Luciano’s in Wrentham. Race starts at 8:00am (registration is at 6:00am) and consists of a 500 meter swim in Lake Pearl, a 9 mile bike ride, and a 3.1 mile run.

Team Hoyt

This friendly Sprint triathlon returns for an anticipated record attendance year as we welcome Team Hoyt to the racing field. Designed to work for both beginners as well as advanced triathletes. People ages 14 and older are eligible. All finishers will receive a medal. Top 3, male and female per category, will also be recognized with place medals.

Great park venue, with all proceeds benefiting the Reach Out to Youth and Families Program at the Hockomock Area YMCA. Race begins at pristine park setting and will have you enjoying picturesque New England landscapes through quaint Wrentham Center. Bike and run provide moderate hills. The grass transition area is centrally located and easily accessed; each participant will enjoy roomy and secure transition space. This USA Triathlon sanctioned event is limited to 400 registered athletes. We are also proud to be the sole paratriathlon friendly USAT event in the state.

This year, we welcome world-class athletes and local legends Dick and Rick Hoyt! This will be their 110th race event. Former United States Senator and Wrentham resident Scott Brown will also be returning for another year in this competition is his hometown.

Hockomock Y triathlete

Participants can expect a high-quality race at an affordable price. $85 individual registration fee and $155 for two or three person relay teams now through Thursday, 7/21. (and an additional $12 fee if not a USAT member). Please note, online registration closes on Thursday, July 18th. You may register by calling Michael at 508.643.5225 until Saturday, 7/20 at noon. After that time if space is available , registration will begin at 6:00am day of event - Sunday, 7/21 which is $90 individuals; relay teams is $165. Register today so you don’t get shut out.

Presenting race sponsor is Iron Mountain. Medal sponsor is Ashworth Awards.

Register online at www.imathlete.com, or by calling Michael Bordonaro at 508.643.5225.


About The Hockomock Area YMCA

The Y is the nation’s leading nonprofit committed to strengthening communities in the areas of youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. At the Y, strengthening community is its cause. Every day, the Y works side-by-side with its neighbors to make sure that everyone, regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn and grow. Learn more at www.hockymca.org.

In the News: CCC honored, Democrats convention

Civilian Conservation Corps celebrates 80th anniversary in Upton

John Vanash was given his first pair of shoes the day he signed up for the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) when he was just 15 in 1941. Now, the organization that helped him feed his family during the Great Depression is thanking him and other alumni in attendance for their years of service helping to build the state’s park system at the CCC's celebration of its 80th anniversary.

So many  parks and public buildings were built by the CCC. That the buildings are still around today is a testament to the care the individuals took in putting them together.

Democrats sizzle at party convention

Like the coming heat wave, state Democratic leaders, candidates and their supporters gathered in Lowell for the party's annual convention yesterday, brimming with confidence after recent victories and promising grass-roots campaigns for the governor’s office and 5th District focusing on health care, economic justice and education.