Franklin Matters

Tuesday, September 19, 2017

New Senior Solutions Guidebook

Dear Franklin Residents,

Welcome to the first edition of "Senior Solutions," a helpful guidebook to the programs and assistance that are available to seniors in Franklin. Included in this book are the programs that offer financial assistance to seniors and how to apply. If folks need assistance applying, they can always ask the staff at the Senior Center for assistance.

In addition to all these helpful programs, Franklin has a State of the Art Senior Center with a full service cafe for breakfast and lunch. Daily activities include an endless amount of quality programs such as computer, art and physical education classes, activities, medical services, veterans benefits assistance, an annual flu shot clinic and much more. There is something for everyone five days a week at the Franklin Senior Center.

Residents may also sign up for the Senior Center's monthly newsletter "The Franklin Connection" to stay informed. To sign up to receive the newsletter please visit our Subscription sign up site or visit the Senior Center on Twitter and Facebook to stay in touch with the events and activities at the Senior Center.

We hope this is a helpful resource for both seniors, veterans and their families to understand and access resources available through our Senior Center. As always, if anyone has questions, please call the Franklin Senior Center at 508-520-4945.

Regards,

Jeffrey D. Nutting, Town Administrator
Jamie Hellen, Deputy Town Administrator
Karen Alves, Senior Center Director

This was shared from the Town of Franklin webpage: http://www.franklinma.gov/node/139023

You can also get the Guide Book directly here
http://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/news/senior_solutions_guidebook_final.pdf

"Senior Solutions," a helpful guidebook to the programs
and assistance that are available to seniors in Franklin

You're invited to Cultural Connections - Oct 10

You are invited to the following event:

Cultural Connections

Event to be held at the following time, date, and location:

Tuesday, October 10, 2017 from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM (EDT)

Rhapsody's Victorian Coffee House
395 East Central Street
Franklin, MA 02038

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Attend Event

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Cultural Connections, an arts and culture roundtable, will be held Oct. 10 at 7pm at the new Rhapsody's Victorian Coffee House at 395 E. Central Street, Franklin. Anyone interested in arts and culture, from any organization in any town, is invited to attend. The subject of this roundtable will be social media. Come meet other like-minded individuals interested in the arts, swap stories of what has and hasn't worked in social media for your organization, and learn some new tips and tricks. A great opportunity to network!

Cultural Connections will be held on the following dates:
Tues, Oct 10, 2017
Thurs, Feb 1, 2018
Wed, May 9, 2018

Join us!
Share this event on Facebook and Twitter We hope you can make it!Cheers,Franklin Cultural Council


Eventbrite, Inc. \| 155 5th St, 7th Floor \| San Francisco, CA 94103

In the News: Library on the move

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

"The library had its final day at a temporary location at Kenwood Circle on Saturday, and moving crews started packing up the shelves on Monday.

Here’s some information to keep in mind during the four weeks the library be moving back to its 118 Main St. location:

- During the transition, all borrowed Franklin Library materials, including museum passes, will be unavailable.

- When placing requests on library materials online, be sure to change the pickup location from Franklin to the most convenient nearby Minuteman Network Library, such as Dean College, Medway or Millis libraries.

- All due dates on library materials checked out in September will be extended to the end of October. While the library is closed, car holders can return items to the closest convenient Minuteman Network Library. The Franklin Library’s book return bins will not be available."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20170918/franklin-library-on-move

Franklin Public Library has been added to and renovated and will open in late October

Reminder: Boys and Girls Youth Soccer Clinic - Oct 15

Presented by the Franklin High School Soccer Program

Instruction Provided by: FHS Soccer Team Members and Coaches

All skill levels welcome

Grades 1-6 boys 9-10:30 am Grades 1-6 girls 11-12:30 PM- Cost $25

The clinic will run rain or shine

Location: Franklin High School New Turf Field.

Content: The clinic will focus on skills and techniques for any level player.

Equipment: sneaker or cleats, shin guards and a soccer ball.

Payment: Send the form with a check payable to Franklin Soccer Boosters by October 8, 2017: Kathleen O’Neil at 560 Coronation Dr., Franklin MA 02038. Email: franklinsoccerboosters@gmail.com

Boys and Girls Youth Soccer Clinic - October 15

Friends: Gifted Kids Need Them too!

COMING SOON...
to the Bellingham Library

Friends: Gifted Kids Need Them too!

Does your bright/gifted child feel left out?

Then this event is for your family!

Connect with other parents of bright children, hear from an expert, and discuss the challenges of making friends. Take home tips and more information.

Meanwhile your children will make Friendship Soup, and engage in other fun activities.

Light refreshments will be served.
Come and join us! Bring a friend!

Saturday September 23 from 1:00 - 3:00 pm

Please Register here to help us plan

The Event is FREE http://massgifted.org/events

Friends: Gifted Kids Need Them too!

Dean College ranked 22nd in the 2018 U.S. News and World Report for the Best Regional Colleges, North

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

Dean College has been ranked 22nd in the 2018 U.S. News and World Report for the Best Regional Colleges, North category. Additionally, Dean placed 15th in this category for Best Value Schools.

This is the seventh consecutive year that Dean College has received the honor.

U.S. News and World Report is a multi-platform publisher of news and information. The U.S. News ranking system for the Best Regional Colleges rests on two pillars. The formula uses quantitative measures that education experts have proposed as reliable indicators of academic quality, and it is based on research of factors such as graduation rate performance, academic reputation and financial selectivity.

http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20170918/strongdean-college-ranked-22nd-best-regional-collegestrong

The direct link to the Regional Ranking at US News and World Report
https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/regional-colleges

Dean College has been ranked 22nd in the 2018 U.S. News and
World Report for the Best Regional Colleges, North category

Monday, September 18, 2017

School Committee Recap: Middle Schools and High School Improvement Plans Approved

To recap the School Committee meeting held on Tuesday, Sep 12, I have the following:

Presentations from the middle schools and high school on their individual improvement plans were reviewed and discussed. Recall that the District Improvement plan was previewed, revised and approved during the August School Committee meetings. This takes the district plan down to the individual school level. The elementary schools will likely bring their plans forward at the next school committee meeting.

middle school principals presenting the school improvement
plans to the School Committee (not shown in photo)

a. 2017-2018 School Improvement Plans

Horace Mann Middle School – Rebecca Motte

https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B0wjbnXDBhczTU5NdHpNNXN5bzF4a1FNZW15dlpVaVFaZGlZ

Remington Middle School – Brian Wildeman

https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B0wjbnXDBhczU3hqbVhNdlR0c1hRZEExNDl3WkZ0aHEzaThB

Annie Sullivan Middle School – Beth Wittcoff
https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B0wjbnXDBhczT3I5YjdnaFpkUTJfNlczT1Z2X2JRRHhGT2tF

Franklin High School – Paul Peri, Principal and William Klements, Deputy Principal
https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B0wjbnXDBhczZHZEcVpEamNMbzlTczJ1VE85YVZiY01jMjg4

In the Discussion Only section, the proposed policy for the Superintendent's evaluation was discussed. A copy can be found here:
https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B0wjbnXDBhczXzQ5THZCdHBHVkZvZG9EWnlCRVlaQ2h0VFgw

The policy governing the order of business for the School Committee meetings was up for second reading and a copy can be found here:
https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B0wjbnXDBhczNkY3TkIwc3J3VE9lSUMxX0puSXFGWHUxYXhv

The action items were approved in bulk format like a consent type agenda. They were all read and with no questions, one motion to approve them all. This saves meeting time.

The School Committee went into an Executive Session and returned about 15 minutes later to approve two memorandum of understandings with the Teachers Union. Not a lot of details were shared but they were the result of negotiations around the teacher evaluation process.

For additional information you can review the notes taken live during the meeting:

Just What is #2069?

The yard signs “#2069” that you may have seen in a growing number of locations are a stark reminder that in 2016, in the State of Massachusetts alone, 2,069 beautiful souls died as a direct result of opioid abuse and addiction.

The signs are not intended to be simply a memorial to those lost but a call for deeper awareness of this epidemic in our midst. They are an invitation for us all to unite as a common voice of concern, of support for those who live with or confront this epidemic every day, and a voice working to erase the stigma that surrounds those caught in the storms of addiction.

The idea for the signs and the campaign began with the work of the Trinity Church, Wrentham outreach committee as they sought to know better their call in the world immediately outside the doors of their faith community. With the help of S.A.F.E. Coalition, an organization from Franklin, MA working to address this epidemic, the mission has begun.

The goal is simple. Using electronic media, yard signs, and employing a bit of hard work, the goal is to create a partnership with individuals, faith communities, families, businesses and others to raise awareness of the opioid epidemic, to encourage those who serve on the front lines of this crisis and to talk openly and with understanding as the impact this epidemic has on our world.

Yet the larger goal is to erase the stigma surrounding the disease of addiction and to begin to lift that heavy weight from the shoulders of those who bear it.

Please, as a faith community, an individual, a family or a business join us in this effort.

Contact:

Trinity Church, Wrentham at 1-508-384-3958

Rev, Ron Tibbetts, deacon at 774-210-0284

And join the growing group on Facebook at #2069_signs

On Twitter- #2069 signs@Trinity2069

Just What is #2069?

“This is Franklin High School; we’re all one”

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

“Alright, everyone line up for drills,” says John Leighton, coach of the unified co-ed basketball team at Franklin High School.

The team ran drills around the Franklin High gymnasium last week, shooting baskets and running laps. From the outside, this looks like any other high school sports practice.

The team consists of 40 members - some with special needs, some without - who will compete with at least four other teams from surrounding towns this season. Their first game will be during the first week in October.

They started practice earlier last week, and it didn’t take much time to start exchanging smiles and high-fives between classes."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20170917/franklin-high-unified-team-were-all-one

https://twitter.com/FHSSports/status/908041321130098688

Register for free informational seminar on researching land records - Oct 17

Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell will host a free informational seminar on how to research computer assisted land records at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds in Dedham from 4:30 P.M. to 5:30 P.M. on Tuesday, October 17, 2017. The seminar is geared for both real estate professionals and the general public.

Register O'Donnell noted that the program will include a brief presentation complete with reference materials and hands-on exercises. There will also be opportunities to ask both basic and advanced questions. Computer assisted land records are currently available both at the Registry and on the Internet at www.norfolkdeeds.org.

"These services have proven to be invaluable tools for our customers. We hope that this seminar will be both helpful and informative," said Register of Deeds Bill O'Donnell. There is no charge for the seminar, but anyone planning to attend is asked to register by calling Alicia Gardner at 781-461-6104 or by email to agardner@norfolkdeeds.org. Please include your name, address, email and a daytime phone number when you register. "Sometimes these seminars fill quickly, so people should sign up as soon as possible," noted the Register.

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds is located at 649 High Street in Dedham. It is the principal office for real property in Norfolk County, amassing approximately a half of million land records, dating back to 1793.

To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives like us at facebook.com/NorfolkDeeds or follow us on twitter.com/NorfolkDeeds and instagram.com/NorfolkDeeds.

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds is located at 649 High Street in Dedham. The Registry is a resource for homeowners, title examiners, mortgage lenders, municipalities and others with a need for secure, accurate, accessible land record information. All land record research information can be found on the Registry's website www.norfolkdeeds.org. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center via telephone at (781) 461-6101, or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org.

www.norfolkdeeds.org

"God Of Carnage" Opens FPAC’s 27th Season

Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) opens its 27th season with award-winning playwright Yasmin Reza’s God of Carnage, presented September 29-October 1. Winner of the 2009 Tony Award for Best Play, the acclaimed dark comedy takes place in the Cobble Hill neighborhood of Brooklyn, where civility unravels as two sets of parents discuss how to deal with a playground altercation that occurred between the couples’ sons the previous day. Alan and Annette’s son hit Michael and Veronica’s son in the face with a stick, resulting in two broken teeth.

The four of them agree to discuss the incident civilly, but, as the night wears on and drinks are imbibed, the polite veneer breaks down. The couples initially spar against each other, but the men gang up on the women and the spouses switch sides as the fighting continues. Reza’s God of Carnage suggests that our civilized trappings do a poor job of hiding our venality and bile.

"God Of Carnage" Opens FPAC’s 27th Season

Directed by Nick Paone, God of Carnage features Paone (Alan), Greg Leach (Michael), and Hallie Wetzell (Veronica), all from Franklin, and Westport’s Kellie Stamp (Annette). Performances are Friday, October 29 and Saturday, October 30 at 7:30 p.m., with a Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. on October 1.

The production is staged at THE BLACK BOX, FPAC’s home and performance venue, located at 15 West Central Street in downtown Franklin. Tickets are $26. God of Carnage is presented by special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service, Inc., New York.

Some adult language; material may not be suitable for young children.

For more information or to purchase tickets, call (508) 528-3370 or visit www.FPAConline.com and www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com.

Sunday, September 17, 2017

Town Council Recap: Fire fighters sworn in, green community approved, fireworks to return for the 4th of July

The Town Council meeting opened on Wednesday, Sep 13 with the swearing in of two new fire fighters/emergency medical technicians (EMT).

Brian Hammond and Matthew Starkey were introduced by Fire Chief Gary McCarragher and sworn in by Town Clerk Teresa Burr.

the swearing in of two new fire fighters/emergency medical technicians (EMT)

The zoning change previously discussed by the Economic Development Committee (EDC), sent to the Planning Board came back to the Council and was given a public hearing and its first reading. The Planning Board did not approve the change for something I couldn't quite understand. It seems to make sense to fix the plot lines as currently some properties are in multiple zones. The measure will return for a second reading at the next Council meeting.

The Union St Wine and Liquors license change was approved. The corporate paperwork change for the 99 Restaurant was tabled to the next meeting as there was no representative from the restaurant.

Joseph Carmignani and Paul Kordic presented an update on the 4th of July celebration. As they are starting to plan now for next year, they are working to have the fireworks return to the celebration. The fireworks would likely be set off from one of the new ball fields. A meeting with the town police and fire as well as the State Fire Marshall was held recently to discuss the plans.

Fund raising will be a key effort for the 4th of July committee. They get most of their revenue from the carnival ride ticket sales and if the weather doesn't cooperate, they could have trouble paying the bills. Debbie Pellegri asked if they would be willing to work with other groups to combine efforts and they are open to it.

In the Legislation for action section of the meeting, the Council approved transferring 2 parcels of land to the Conservation Commission. The Horace Mann Statue committee was dissolved formally. The Council approved the application to go for designation as a "Green Community". There was also a first reading of a zoning bylaw to add a 'stretch energy code' to construction of new buildings. This is part of the 'green community' effort and by adding extra insulation and other measures up front, the building should be more energy efficient during its life. A zoning bylaw change to remove some inconsistency in the setbacks for accessory buildings was moved to a second reading.

Additional notes from the meeting reported during the session can be found here:

The Town Council action taken document can be found here:

Updated Candidate listing for Franklin Election Nov 7, 2017

From Teresa Burr, Franklin Town Clerk:

As of Friday, September 15, 2017 the following list of residents had taken out nomination papers for the upcoming Biennial Town Election this November 7, 2017.

Town Council – 9 Seats

Andrew Bissanti - Candidate for Re-Election
Robert Dellorco - Candidate for Re-Election
Glenn Jones - Candidate for Re-Election
Matthew Kelly – Candidate for Re-Election
Thomas D. Mercer - Candidate for Re-Election
Peter E. Padula – Candidate for Re-Election
Deborah L. Pellegri - Candidate for Re-Election
Judith Pond Pfeffer - Candidate for Re-Election
Patrick Casey
Melanie Hamblen
Eamon McCarthy-Earls
Benjamin M. Terry
Mickey Lee Whitmore

School Committee – 7 Seats

Anne K. Bergen – Candidate for Re-Election
Cynthia Douglas - Candidate for Re-Election
Denise L. Schultz - Candidate for Re-Election
Mary Jane Scofield –Candidate for Re-Election
Dianne C. Feeley
Dr. Monica Linden
Alexandra Porter-Marques
Virginia (Gigi) Zub

Planning Board – 2 Seats

Joseph Halligan - Candidate for Re-Election
Anthony D. Padula – Candidate for Re-Election

Planning Board –Associate – 1 Seat

Richard W. Power, Sr.

Board of Health – 1 Seat

Bruce J. Hunchard - Candidate for Re-Election
Bridget Sweet

Board of Assessors – 1 Seat

Christopher K. Feeley – Candidate for Re-Election

In summary, the Town Council, School Committee, and Board of Health are contested elections with more candidates than seats available.

Franklin Election Collection - Nov 2017

FPAC Announces Open Auditions for Original Holiday Musicals

Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) will hold open auditions for the original FPAC musical ’Tis the Season! and a new FPAC holiday panto. Auditions for both shows will take place on Saturday, October 7 at THE BLACK BOX, FPAC’s home and performance venue located at 15 West Central Street in downtown Franklin.

Auditions are scheduled at 1 p.m. for ages 6-8, 1:30 for ages 9 and 10, 2:00 for ages 11 and 12, 2:30 for teens, and 3:30 for adults. Those unable to attend on the 7th are encouraged to audition on Wednesday, October 4 at 7 p.m. Students must be 6 years of age or older on the audition date to participate. Beginners and all levels are welcome. Please prepare 16 measures of a musical theater or pop song and bring sheet music, as an accompanist will be provided. A simple dance combination will be taught at the audition.

’Tis the Season! is an original large cast musical first presented by FPAC in 1995. The upbeat, jazzy holiday extravaganza features members of the Kenny Hadley Big Band and contemporary arrangements of favorite holiday classics in musical styles including R&B, jazz, rock, Motown, gospel, and Broadway. FPAC will present ’Tis the Season! on December 9 and 10 at Franklin High School auditorium.

FPAC’s third original American panto follows in the British tradition, retelling a well-known fairy tale in an exaggerated style filled with audience participation, popular songs, slapstick comedy, jokes, dances, and more. The production will be staged at THE BLACK BOX on December 22 and 23. The FPAC holiday musicals will be presented as part of the Company’s 27th season.

FPAC Announces Open Auditions for Original Holiday Musicals

Founded in 1991, the nonprofit FPAC supports educational arts experiences, quality entertainment, and outstanding performance opportunities for professional artists, community performers, and students of the arts. With a focus on youth development and a commitment to live music, FPAC productions draw performers and audiences from more than 100 communities throughout the region. For more information, call (508) 528-3370 or visit www.FPAConline.com

Affordable Housing For Sale - $196,600 - 47 Leanne Way, Franklin

Franklin Heights is off of Lincoln Street in Franklin, Massachusetts 02038. The unit for sale is 47 Leanne Way. The unit is an affordable housing opportunity through the Local Initiative Program (LIP) and will be sold to first-time homebuyers with incomes at or below 80% of the area median income. The price for 47 Leanne Way is $196,600.

The unit includes two bedrooms, 2 ½ bathrooms , Central Air Conditioning and a gas fireplace. Includes washer/dryer, stove, microwave, dishwasher and refrigerator. One car garage.

47 Leanne is subject to a deed restriction that will be recorded with the mortgage and deed. The restriction limits the amount that the home can be resold for or refinanced for and requires that it be resold to another affordable buyer. The deed restriction is in perpetuity.