Franklin Matters

Thursday, August 28, 2014

Blackstone Heritage Corridor News

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Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor

Volume 2 Issue 8/ August 2014

In This Issue

Video of the Month

Greenway Challenge

Ranger Walkabouts

Connect on Facebook

Become a Corridor Keeper

Quick Links

Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor

Volunteer

Bike Path

Share Your Photos & Stories about the Blackstone Valley!

We want to feature your photos and personal stories

in a future issue of Corridor Currents! Have you taken a cool photo in the Blackstone Valley? Or, do you have a story to share related to the Valley? If so, we want to hear from you.

Send us your stuff!

Enjoy the Blackstone Valley on the go with our mobile Web app.

And, it's free!

Click on the image above to get the free web app

Ashton Mill

VIDEO OF THE MONTH

Slatersville: The First Planned Industrial Mill Village in the United States

Click on the image to watch the video

Slatersville was founded in 1807 when brothers Samuel and John Slater were looking for a site to build a mill where they would not have to compete with other employers for workers. To provide for their workers needs, the Slaters needed to provide housing, stores, churches and a school.

EVENT

The Greenway Challenge

It IS a Challenge!

Our volunteers are hard at work preparing for this year's adventure race on Saturday, September 27 (with a rain date of October 4).

The Steering and Logistics Committee plans, designs, administers and, promotes this premiere adventure race. They also tend to required maintenance of the river and trails, access points and transition sites. Some areas may be newly designed for the course, while others have not been used in years.

Clean up includes poison ivy removal, brush clearing, clearing the river of fallen trees, strainers and other debris. Such was the case on August 16 when six members of the committee entered the water in South Grafton and cleared the river for safe passage to Riverdale Mill. A land crew cleared the trail of overgrowth at the portage. The crew then headed down river to Plummer's Landing in Northbridge, MA where they continued their work removing trees, tires and other debris from the river.

Volunteers work to make our river safe for Greenway Challenge participants and other paddlers using the Blackstone River.

Interested in volunteering? Contact Barbara Dixon at 401-762-0250, ext 5503 or barbara_dixon@partner.nps.gov.

Reminder: The Greenway Challenge registration deadline is Monday, September 1.

See registration details

Many thanks to Kevin Trottier, Joe McCreight, Peter Coffin and Phil Johanson for removing downed trees and other obstacles in the Blackstone River!

(Charlie Thompson and Bill Dausey are not in the photo.)

EXPLORE

JOIN US FOR OUR FINAL WALKABOUT ON THURSDAY, AUGUST 28

Rain Gardens

A rain garden is a specialized garden that collects rainwater runoff from paved areas and other hard surfaces. Rain gardens soak up the stormwater, helping to reduce runoff into storm drains or nearby bodies of water, which can cause erosion and water pollution.

Join our partners from the Blackstone River Coalition to learn about some rain gardens they have built, some plans for a new garden in Slatersville, and pick up some tips on how you can make your own rain garden to help protect the Blackstone Watershed.

Parking is available at the North Smithfield Public Library parking lot at 20 Main Street, Slatersville, (North Smithfield), RI.

CONNECT WITH US ON FACEBOOK

GET INVOLVED

Become a Corridor Keeper Today!

The success of the Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor has always been due, in large part, to public support and active participation by the people and communities of the Blackstone Valley.

People like you!

For more than 25 years, the people of the valley have shared in rediscovering their roots, their heritage and their common identity. They have supported the Corridor by speaking or writing to their elected officials, by showing up at public events, and by participating in numerous projects and programs.

Join Today!

Become a Sponsor!

About Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor

Congress established the John H. Chafee Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor Commission in 1986 to preserve and interpret the nationally significant historic, cultural and natural resources of the Blackstone River Valley, where the industrialization of America began.

As the new management entity, the Blackstone Heritage Corridor, Inc. has created a successful program of partnerships between federal, state and local government agencies, as well as nongovernment organizations pooling their resources and pursuing a common agenda of preservation and revitalization.

Ongoing programs and projects include historic preservation, river cleanup, land conservation and stewardship, visitor centers, ranger walks, programs with schools, recreational programs and events, support for arts and cultural events, training for partners and volunteers and assistance to towns working to preserve their heritage while also improving the local and regional economy.



Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor \| One Depot Square \| Woonsocket \| RI \| 02895

Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Franklin Library: Meet the Author - Jennie Coughlin - Sep 9

Meet the Author: Tuesday, September 9th at 6:30 PM

Franklin Public Library Meeting Room

Join Franklin native Jennie Coughlin for a discussion about how local history and area towns influence the fictional town of Exeter in her two books. Jennie Coughlin wrote her first short story as a project for Nina Santoro's local history unit at Horace Mann Middle School. The history and lore of Franklin and the surrounding towns still influences her fiction, right down to the name — since the Franklin town fathers chose not to use the name Exeter, she borrowed it for her fictional small town. When she's not spinning tales of the Irish mob-infested small town, Coughlin is digital projects editor for a group of three newspapers in upstate New York.

You can find out more about Jennie Coughlin on her website http://jenniecoughlin.com/

Jennie Coughlin website home page

The Amazon page for her book "All that is necessary"

The Amazon page for "Thrown Out: Stories from Exeter"

Senior Center: A new edition of 'The Franklin Connection' is available

A new edition of 'The Franklin Connection' has been published on the Town of Franklin web site.

Click the link below to read the latest edition.

http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Senior/Sept14connection.pdf

WMRC Senior Expo Fri, Sep 26 10:00 AM to 1:30 PM

FSPA Launches 30th Anniversary Year With September Open Houses

The Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) celebrates the start of its 30th anniversary season with a series of Open Houses for prospective students and families. The community is invited to tour the downtown Franklin facility, observe rehearsal and classes, speak with faculty and staff, and learn more about FSPA programs in music, dance and drama. Students are also encouraged to try a complimentary class.

A Saturday Open House is scheduled on September 6 from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., with weekday Open Houses from 4-8 p.m. on September 11, 15, 24 and 30 at 38 Main Street.

FSPA

Since 1985, FSPA has been dedicated to the enjoyment of the arts for all ages and to the artistic growth and development of young people. Founded by Director Raye Lynn Mercer and built upon the notion that arts experiences are an integral part of a well-rounded education, FSPA provides a nurturing environment where students grow skills for the stage – and for life. Children develop a sense of independence and accomplishment at an early age, while gaining confidence, poise and self-esteem. The performing arts impart life skills, expanding students’ ability to communicate effectively, whether in the secondary school classroom or other public speaking opportunities. The arts also enhance creativity and imagination, developing improvisatory skills to navigate a rapidly changing world.

With a distinguished faculty of Boston-area artists, expansive roster of classes and extensive calendar of wide-ranging performance opportunities, FSPA serves students of all ages and levels of ability, whether for recreational enjoyment or serious study.

FSPA’s Music Department offers private voice lessons and instruction on all instruments, along with group voice classes, music theory and chamber music, jazz and percussion ensembles. Performing opportunities for singers include the FSPA Glee Club, studio voice recitals, opera scenes, acoustic coffee houses and musical theater showcases. FSPA’s innovative Little Music School teaches children as young as 18 months to play the piano and offers creative and engaging general music classes for children ages 1-5.

The Dance Department provides programs for all ages and levels in ballet, jazz, tap, modern, hip-hop and lyrical, and also features classes for boys, adults and beginner teens. Expanded dance offerings include Acro, Character Dance, Dance Conditioning, Horton Technique and Dance for Musical Theater. Performance opportunities include two dance companies, Spring Concert, Ballet Conservatory Repertoire Series and Ballet Conservatory Variations Ensembles. Many dancers are also cast, by audition, in Franklin Performing Arts Company’s annual holiday production of The Nutcracker, featuring professional orchestra and special guest artists.

For drama students, beginning in kindergarten, FSPA offers an extensive range of acting and musical theater classes that build performance skills and explore theater games, improvisation, character development and scene work. Musical theater troupes for students in grades 5-12 are cast each year, with annual performance trips to Walt Disney World for select ensembles. This fall, FSPA introduces a Musical Theater Conservatory program with a comprehensive curriculum designed to engage dedicated students in grades 8-12. FSPA students also perform, through audition, in Franklin Performing Arts Company’s annual season of shows.

Fall classes begin on September 8 and registration for all programs is ongoing. For more information or to request a course catalogue and class schedule, call (508) 528-8668 or visit www.fspaonline.com.

Franklin Public Schools - School Improvement Plans - 2014-2015

The School Improvement Plans for the Franklin Public Schools can be found on these links:

the old building reflected in the windows of the new Franklin High School

Tuesday, August 26, 2014

Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - Aug 26, 2014

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.

AGENDA

"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."

Franklin Public Schools "The Key to Learning"

1. Routine Business

Citizen’s Comments
Review of Agenda
Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the August 12, 2014 School Committee Meeting.
Payment of Bills Mr. Clement
Payroll Mrs. Douglas
FHS Student Representatives
Correspondence: none

2. Guests/Presentations

a. New Administrators

b. Elementary - School Improvement Plans

1. ECDC
2. Davis Thayer
3. Jefferson
4. Keller
5. Kennedy
6. Oak Street
7. Parmenter

c. Middle - School Improvement Plans

1. Horace Mann
2. Remington
3. Annie Sullivan

d. High School – School Improvement Plan

3. Discussion Only Items

a. Policy – Second Readings

o IHBB – Service Animals in Schools
o JFAA-R – School Admission / Residency
o JFAA-E1 – Residency Statement
o GA – Personnel Policies / Goals

4. Action Items

a. I recommend approval of budget transfers as detailed.
b. I recommend approval of the ECDC School Improvement Plan as detailed.
c. I recommend approval of the Davis Thayer School Improvement Plan as detailed.
d. I recommend approval of the Jefferson School Improvement Plan as detailed.
e. I recommend approval of the Keller School Improvement Plan as detailed.
f. I recommend approval of the Kennedy School Improvement Plan as detailed.
g. I recommend approval of the Oak Street School Improvement Plan as detailed.
h. I recommend approval of the Parmenter School Improvement Plan as detailed.
i. I recommend approval of the Horace Mann School Improvement Plan as detailed.
j. I recommend approval of the Remington School Improvement Plan as detailed.
k. I recommend approval of the Annie Sullivan School Improvement Plan as detailed.
l. I recommend approval of the FHS School Improvement Plan as detailed.
m. I recommend adoption of Policy IHBB – Service Animals in Schools as discussed.
n. I recommend adoption of Policy JFAA-R – School Admission / Residency as discussed.
o. I recommend adoption of Policy JFAA-E1 – Residency Statement as discussed.
p. I recommend adoption of Policy GA – Personnel Policies / Goals as discussed.

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

Contractual Negotiations

8. Adjourn

Note: as the agenda was just released this afternoon, I don't have time to post the school improvement plans before the meeting. I'll have them available for review Wednesday morning.

Calling for volunteers!

The Franklin Food Pantry is looking for volunteers to stock shelves Monday through Friday 12 pm to 2 pm.

Physical requirements include lifting up to 50 lbs. and carrying product up and down stairs.

We are also looking for volunteers Tuesday through Friday from 9 AM to noon to work with the clients at the Pantry.

If you can answer this call, please visit our website and complete the volunteer form, or call us at (508)528-3115 ext. 2

Franklin Food Pantry

The volunteer sign up form is located on the Franklin Food Pantry webpage here

http://www.franklinfoodpantry.org/

or go directly to the form via this link

2014 Harvest Festival Planning Under Way

2014 Franklin Harvest Festival Planning Under Way

The Franklin Downtown Partnership is currently planning the 12th annual Harvest Festival and is looking for crafters, entertainers, vendors, volunteers and sponsors. The festival is scheduled for Sunday, October 5, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and will take place rain or shine.

Organizers expect more than 6,000 visitors to attend this year's event in downtown Franklin, where they'll be treated to delicious food options, a live DJ and local entertainers on several stages, games and activities for the kids, and more than 100 crafter, artist and organization booths to browse through. Local businesses will hold sales and special promotions, and the Fire Station and the Historical Museum plan displays and activities.

"The Harvest Festival is one of the best opportunities we have to bring the community together and show off all that downtown Franklin has to offer. Year after year our visitors discover great shopping, new restaurants, helpful resources and talented local artists," says Executive Director Lisa Piana.

BOOTH SPACES AVAILABLE:There is still time for crafters, organizations, performers and interested groups to participate. Booth space is limited and registrations must be received by September 5. Registration forms and more information can be found at www.franklindowntownpartnership.org/ or by contacting Booth Chairperson Terri Frank at terrifrank1@gmail.com.

SPONSORSHIPS NEEDED:Sponsors are needed to support this festival. The FDP relies on sponsors to run this and other events, including the Strawberry Stroll, Holiday Stroll and its beautification days. Businesses and individuals interested in sponsorship can contact the FDP office at downtown.franklin@yahoo.com or (774)-571-3109. Sponsorship forms and a full list of opportunities can be found on the website under the Sponsors tab.

Franklin Food Pantry entrance decked out for 2013 Harvest Festival

Franklin Library: End of Summer Party - Teens

Where will you find Henna Tattoos, Music, Pizza, Raffle Prizes and more?

At the Franklin Library End of Summer Party for teens scheduled for Friday Aug 29th at 3:00 PM

End of Summer Party - Teens - Aug 29th

This was shared from the Franklin Library page
http://franklinpl.blogspot.com/2014/08/teen-end-of-summer-party.html

Give It a Tri - Hockmock Area YMCA Youth Triathlon Will Be Held Sept. 7

The Hockomock Area YMCA eagerly announces the return of its popular Youth Triathlon, coming Sunday, September 7 to the North Attleboro Branch, 300 Elmwood Street. Ages 3-13 — come experience this unique opportunity to be introduced to a lifelong activity that builds confidence, determination and a love for physical activity.

At the Y, sports and recreational activities are something special! The Youth Triathlon offers a fun way to engage youth in physical activity. Four age divisions allow each participant the opportunity to be challenged while setting everyone up for success.

entry table for Hockomock Y 'Give it a Tri'

Register today at hockymca.org or stop by a Hockomock Area YMCA branch in Foxboro, Franklin, or North Attleboro. Registration closes Friday, September 5, with no day-of signups offered.

Opening ceremonies will be held at 9:00 a.m. sharp, including parent orientation and bike set up. Athletes should arrive with their helmets and bikes. All athletes will be placed in a heat with leaders available to preview the course and lead stretching.

youth Tri finishers celebrating

For more information or to volunteer, please contact Mike Mahoney at 508.643.5265 or michaelm@hockymca.org. All proceeds benefit the Hockomock Area YMCA’s Reach Out to Youth and Families annual campaign.

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 hockymca.org.

In the News: election poll, candidates joust

Yes, there is a primary election coming up Sep 9th. The first chance that Franklin voters will get to use the new high school as their voting location.

The newest poll in the gubernatorial race showed a much tighter contest than previous surveys as the campaign turns the corner into the final two week before the primary election.

According to a Suffolk University-Boston Herald poll, Coakley holds a 12 point lead over Grossman with 42 percent of the vote to Grossman's 30 percent among very likely Democratic voters. Health care administrator Dr. Donald Berwick trails in third place with 16 percent, while 12 percent of likely Democratic primary voters are still undecided.

The poll, conducted Aug. 21 through Aug. 24, had a 4.9 percent margin of error.

Continue reading the full article in the Milford Daily News here (subscription maybe required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20140825/NEWS/140828005/1994/NEWS

Meanwhile on the campaign trail, a recent debate held by the Boston Herald was reported on in part by writing:

The Democratic candidates also split on the question of casinos — particularly the suggestion by Republican candidate Charlie Baker that he would consider filing legislation to allow a single casino in Springfield if voters approve a statewide ballot question that would repeal Massachusetts' 2011 casino law.

That law allows the state to license up to three casinos and a single slots parlor.

A third Democratic candidate, Don Berwick, supports the repeal effort, arguing that casinos contribute to a slew of social ills while harming local businesses.

"I'm just saying to the people of Springfield, please, please look at the information, don't get the wool pulled over your eyes by big money lobbyists," Berwick said.

Continue reading the full article in the Milford Daily News (subscription maybe required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20140826/NEWS/140827747/1994/NEWS

Monday, August 25, 2014

Keller Sullivan getting new sidewalks

As part of the Lincoln St road work, the Keller Sullivan schools are getting new sidewalks. I managed to get out for a visit this weekend to grab some photos.

from Lincoln St looking up to the schools

part of the way up looking back down the entrance

Keller Sullivan sign

sidewalk on Lincoln St at entrance

"We’ll have opportunities to better prepare students"

In case you missed the Sunday Boston Globe West section, there is an article on new high schools and it references Franklin High School in part by writing:

In Franklin, where all students in the town’s new $103.5 million high school will be assigned a Chromebook — a relatively inexpensive Google-designed laptop — the school library is set to become a hive of activity for tech-savvy students.

“The media center will be the hub of school,” said Superintendent Maureen Sabolinski. “We’ll have traditional stacks with books, but we’re going to have a student-manned technology desk, like a Genius Bar [in a Apple store], with a media center and a café, mirroring a college environment.”

Marshfield’s public access cable station will be housed in the town’s new $101.6 million high school, saving money on rent for studio space and giving students an internship opportunity, said Borstel.

Continue reading the article on the Boston Globe website here (subscription maybe required)
http://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/regionals/west/2014/08/23/average-cost-for-new-refurbished-high-schools-seven-boston-suburbs-checks-million/2VSQ3ibtEt752qxixSZGoK/story.html

While Marshfield's public access cable station is inside their new high school, Franklin's is located separately. The facility is under construction on Hutchinson St.

Franklin TV studio under construction

Franklin.TV did donate more than $100,000 to the town for use in providing equipment for the studio located in the new FHS. (This was formally accepted by the Town Council on the June 4, 2014 action items http://www.franklinmatters.org/2014/06/live-reporting-legislation.html)

recording studio in the new FHS

The main entrance to the new Franklin High School as it appeared on the walk this past Saturday.

main entrance to the new FHS

The collection of posts tracking the high school project from the early days of discussion through to the present can be found here

http://www.franklinmatters.org/2011/12/collection-high-school-building-project.html