"we tried to make sure they reflected the cost of the service"

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"The town has taken action to simplify its fees. 

The Town Council, at its Nov. 15 meeting, heard and decided to move forward on bylaw changes that would remove 116 fees or categories of fees. The matter will be brought up for a second reading at a future council meeting, where the councilors will take a final vote on it. 

Deputy Town Administrator Jamie Hellen said the fees bylaw was due for modernization. 

"The old bylaw hadn't been reviewed for 20 years, though certain fees have been amended at different points in time," he said. "Through the years, the Town Council has addressed fees and costs, but hadn't looked at the bylaw in its entirety."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20161118/franklin-looking-to-simplify-fees


Note: the Town Council meeting was held on Wednesday, Nov 16 not 15 as shown in the MDN article.

The cover letter to the Town Council and the full text of the revised town fees bylaw is shown here

work continues along Chestnut St to add new sidewalks

Upcoming Events in Franklin, MA Area: FRI 11/18/16 - THU 11/24/16

FRIDAY 11/18/16
10:30am-12pm   Knitting Circle for Adults (all skill levels welcome) @ Franklin Public Library
10:30am   Norfolk-Franklin Music Together: Free Demo Class at Norfolk Public Library
4-5pm   Audition Opportunity: Sing a duet with Beth Leavel @ The Black Box
7:30pm   Dean College of Arts: Into the Woods @ Dean College

SATURDAY 11/19/16
9am-3pm   Book Sale - Buck a Book @ Franklin Public Library
2pm   Dean College of Arts: Into the Woods @ Dean College
3-4pm   Audition Opportunity: Sing a duet with Beth Leavel @ The Black Box
7:30pm   Dean College of Arts: Into the Woods @ Dean College
8pm   Circle of Friends Coffeehouse: The Kennedys with Nalani @ FUSF
8pm   Beth Leavel in Concert @ The Black Box

SUNDAY 11/20/16
7:30-10:30am   Sunday Morning Breakfast returns to Franklin Rod and Gun Club - open to public
9-12pm   FDP: Winter Beautification @ Downtown Franklin
9am-12pm  Bag Sale - $5 a bag of books @ Franklin Public Library
2pm   Dean College of Arts: Into the Woods @ Dean College
7pm   Interfaith Thanksgiving Celebration @ FUSF

MONDAY 11/21/16
10am-12:30pm   Thanksgiving Pie and Turkey Gravy Sale @ Gerry's Place - Tri-County HS
4pm   Krafty Mondays (ages 6-12) @ Franklin Public Library
6:15-7pm   Fall Cub Scout Recruiting Event (K-5) @ Elks Lodge

TUESDAY 11/22/16
10am-12:30pm   Thanksgiving Pie and Turkey Gravy Sale @ Gerry's Place - Tri-County HS

THURSDAY 11/24/16   *** HAPPY THANKSGIVING ***
8am   Franklin Food Pantry: Turkey Trot @ 91 Jordan Road, Franklin (registration starts at 7am)

For all the Town of Franklin Public Meetings click HERE.

For event details click HERE.

*If you have any suggestions or events for the calendar, please email Renata@BetterLivingRE.com

In the News: Best Buddies grants awarded; state data on suspensions released

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"A school program designed to encourage friendships between students and their counterparts who have developmental disabilities received nearly $15,000 in grants this week. 

The grants - to the "Best Buddies" programs in multiple Franklin Schools - were announced at the Tuesday night School Committee meeting. 

Best Buddies

Committee Chairman Kevin O'Malley said Franklin schools have partnered with the Best Buddies program for many years, and that hearing of the group's progress was one of the highlights of the committee's year. 

"Our schools have arguably the best 'Best Buddies' program in the country," he said. "It's a wonderful program."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20161117/franklin-school-best-buddies-programs-receive-grants

The complete listing of grants by Best Buddies for the individual schools can be found here  http://www.franklinmatters.org/2016/11/live-reporting-best-buddies.html

"A year after student suspension rates fell sharply under new statewide disciplinary regulations, the number of Massachusetts pupils suspended from school ticked up slightly in the 2015-16 academic year. 

“The last thing we want to see is suspension rates increasing, particularly for our students of color, English language learners and students with disabilities,” said Matthew Cregor, education project director for the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights and Economic Justice. “Those disparities were already far too great.” 

According to state data released Thursday, the percentage of students suspended at least once in the 2015-16 academic year increased slightly from the previous year, from 4.1 to 4.3 percent. That follows a 20 percent decrease in student suspensions the previous year, when new state regulations went into effect."

http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20161117/racial-disparity-remains-in-school-suspension-rates

A Season of Thanks

November 2016   A Season of Thanks    Dear Community, We are so thankful for YOU!  Throughout the year volunteers and donors work hard to help us provide food to more than 500 households. We simply could not do it without you.  Through your generosity, this week we will distribute turkeys and fixings to 200 families. We will also be able to provide each family with one item to help cook the meal. We will have foil roasting pans, pot holders, turkey basters and potato mashers to choose from. Last year when we offered these items it brought a lot of big smiles! There are so many small things that become luxuries in difficult times. Wishing you and yours a very Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at the Franklin Food Pantry. THANK YOU for your support!          Don't forget #GivingTuesday November 29th - Help us reach our goal of 322 donations,  in honor of each of the 322 children we serve!     Calling all runners, walkers and trotters!  Bring your friends and family for this fun annual tradition. The Franklin Turkey Trot 5k begins at 8am Thanksgiving morning and all proceeds benefit the pantry.   Register here online. Additional leadership gift and corporate sponsor  opportunities available, for details please  email Erin Lynch erin@franklinfoodpantry.org Franklin Food Pantry       www.franklinfoodpantry.org  Our facility is generously donated by Rockland Trust. We are located at 43 West Central Street, Franklin MA, on Route 140 in the Rockland Trust parking lot,  across the street from the fire station. STAY CONNECTED

Franklin Food Pantry, 43 West Central Street, PO Box 116, Franklin, MA 02038 Sent by erin@franklinfoodpantry.org in collaboration with Try it free today

In the News: zoning change referred to Planning Board; Harlem Wizards game sold out

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"The Town Council agreed to refer to the Planning Board a zoning change that would allow a 34-unit residential development along Summer Street. 

The council voted Wednesday night unanimously on the alteration - which would rezone the 11-acre lot at 496 Summer St. from "rural residential I" to "single-family residential VII." 

Town Administrator Jeffrey Nutting said the development was expected to resemble the Cook's Farm project currently under construction along Rte. 140, near Franklin Country Club. The single-family residential VII zone was created to allow for that development."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20161117/franklin-council-forwards-zoning-change-to-planning-board

"The Harlem Wizards will bring their team to Franklin to compete against “Team FPS” for a two-hour tournament on Friday, Nov. 18. 

The event will take place at Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School’s gymnasium, 147 Pond St., Franklin, starting at 7 p.m. Doors open at 7 p.m. 

The Harlem Wizards’ brand of “Trick Hoops and Alley Oops” entertainment basketball has been packing gyms across the globe for more than 50 years. Their show includes amazing slams, world-class tricks, precision teamwork and humor."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20161117/franklin-schools-teachers-staff-to-face-harlem-wizards-nov-18

Tickets for the game on Nov 18 are sold out

#shopFranklin Small Business Showcase at FHS - 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM

FREE - On November 17

DON'T FORGET Small Business Showcase This Thursday Don't miss the fun! AND it's FREE November 17 5:00 to 8:30 pm at Franklin High School Cafeteria   Hope to see you then! Franklin Public Schools                  Lifelong Learning Institute The Center for Adult Education and Community Learning

FPS- Lifelong Learning, 355 East Central Street, Franklin, MA 02038 Sent by adulted@franklin.k12.ma.us in collaboration with

#shopFranklin Small Business Showcase

#shopFranklin Small Business Showcase - details 1

#shopFranklin Small Business Showcase - details 2

Note: I will be at the Welcome table to greet all arrivals and I am also scheduled for a round table discussion on Social Media. Be sure to stop by! 

Tegra Medical employees help 2 local charities

October 2016 was a busy month for the employees of Tegra Medical in Franklin, MA which consists of employees from both Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Employees raised money and goods for two local charities. 

The generous outpouring of support benefited:

• Crossroads Rhode Island, the largest homeless service organization in Rhode Island. Tegra Medical sent them a check for $1,500.

• Vision and Fraternity Ministries, an organization that helps those in need in the Rhode Island area. Employees collected a huge quantity of gloves, hats, coats, baby food, diapers, non-perishable food and clothing.

Employees who donated more than three items to Vision and Fraternity Ministries were entered into a raffle for a vacation day.

The photos attached show the Grim Reaper assisting with the Crossroads RI fundraiser which sold Halloween bags filled with tricks or treats, as well as the impressive collection of goods for Vision and Fraternity Ministries.

Tegra Medical employees help 2 local charities 1

Tegra Medical employees help 2 local charities 2

Tegra Medical employees help 2 local charities 3

Tegra Medical employees help 2 local charities 4

For more about Tegra Medical, visit their webpage  http://www.tegramedical.com/

Tri-County RVTHS:15 students inducted into National Honor Society

Tri-County RVTHS Superintendent-Director Stephen Dockray is pleased to announce 15 students were inducted into the Peter Rickard Chapter of the National Honor Society during a ceremony on Tuesday, November 15.

This year's inductees are senior Angelina Rivera, of Franklin, and juniors Frances Lopez, of Attleboro, Shane Dowling, of Franklin, Jeffrey Blenkhorn, of Medway, Ryan Malewicz, of Millis, Alyssa Burns, Madison Chamberlain, Kaylee Dunn, Carolyn Kiely, and Amanda Merigo, of North Attleborough, Isabella Leonardi, and Nicole Loney, of Plainville, Alexis Chapman, of Seekonk, Cara Parker, of Uxbridge, and Rayonna Charlton, of Walpole.

Current members of the organization include Brianna Santiago, and John Shultz, of Attleboro, Zachary Keeler, and Morgan Shields, of Bellingham, Delaney Forbes, and Amy O’Brien, of Franklin, Samantha Frey, William Galligan, and Daelyn Hiduchick, of Medway, Hollyann Edwards, of Norfolk, Allyson Bettencourt, Madeline Bettencourt, Katelyn Billington, Lana Kilani, Kathleen Loonie, Caroline Moriarty, MacKenzie Rider, and Jennie Twyman, of North Attleborough, Kelsie Rainone, of Plainville, Katherine Pensak, of Walpole, and Matthew Foley, of Wrentham.

Named after former Tri-County Principal Peter Rickard, the Tri-County RVTHS chapter of the National Honor Society requires that qualifying students maintain a GPA of 3.30 or higher and have a proven record of leadership and volunteerism. Students must also submit three letters of recommendation with a personal statement to the Faculty Council for approval by majority vote.

The newest members of the Peter Rickard Chapter of the National Honor Society pose for a photo inside Tri-County’s library ahead of an induction ceremony on Tuesday, November 15

Tri-County RVTHS, located at 147 Pond Street, Franklin, is a recipient of the High Schools That Work Gold Achievement Award and serves the communities of Franklin, Medfield, Medway, Millis, Norfolk, North Attleborough, Plainville, Seekonk, Sherborn, Walpole, and Wrentham.

Franklin Liquors: Thanksgiving Sale Newsletter

Having trouble viewing this email? Click here

Franklin Liquors Web Page Thanksgiving 2016 Newsletter          Thanksgiving Time Is Here! This Newsletter Has Our Wine And Food Pairing Suggestions  With Some Wine Recommendations. We Are Here To Help You Find A Special Wine To Share With Family And Friends. All Year We Research And Taste To Find The Best Wines In The World. This Year #ShopFranklin And Let Us Help With What To Serve With The Bird.     Have A Safe Thanksgiving Franklin Liquors Mike & Mark                  Franklin Liquors 363 East Central St 508-528-7338 Hours: Mon-Thurs 9:00AM-9:00PM Fri&Sat 9:00AM-9:00PM Sunday 10:00AM (STATE LAW)-6PM Holidays We Must Close Due to State Law: Thanksgiving Christmas Memorial Day Family Owned Vintage 1978  Thanksgiving Food And Wine Pairings Guide And Suggestions   By: Mark C Lenzi CSW,CSS,CWAS,FWS,IWS* 750ml Wines Mix And Match  6 Bottles Get 10% Off 12 Bottles Get 20% Off   Whites Champagne/Sparkling  Sparkling wine is a great aperitif to sip while you wait for the turkey to finish cooking.  It adds a celebratory note to the meal and goes well with starters like soup and salad.  Sparkling also works well with desserts.  Try an Italian Proseco with Fruit pies. 2014, 2015 AND 2016 Voted GOLD Medal BEST Liquor Store In 16 Town Region

The email newsletter was shortened for publication here. To review the full contents follow this link

Christmas Fair - Dec 3

St. John's Episcopal Church (237 Pleasant Street, Franklin) will hold it's annual Christmas Fair on Saturday December 3rd from 9:00am to 2:00pm. 

The Fair features, Silent Auction, Cookie Walk, Baked Goods, Grandma's Attic with gently used items and books, Children's Activities, Snack Bar, and a raffle for a Fitbit and Kindle. 

Please join us!

St. John's Episcopal Church (237 Pleasant Street, Franklin)

"trusted in the common sense of school administrators"

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"The Franklin School Committee is one step closer to adopting a new dress code for the district's schools. 

The committee on Tuesday night approved the first reading of the code, which has been reviewed in the last few months to ensure consistency across schools and equal treatment of students. 

Policy subcommittee chairwoman Mary Jane Scofield said her group had sought parent feedback on the policy at a two-hour meeting in October. She said that meeting had gone well, and that some alterations had been made in its wake."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20161116/franklin-schools-give-early-approval-to-new-dress-code

A copy of the policy can be found here
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2016/11/school-committee-policies-up-for.html