Tuesday, November 28, 2017

New England Irish Harp Orchestra - Dec 10

New England Irish Harp Orchestra will share a wonderful medley of Holiday music that will put you in the perfect mood for the season!

Sunday, December 10 - 7:00 pm

St. John’s Episcopal Church 
237 Pleasant Street Franklin, MA 

Tickets $10 (payable at the door) 

FREE  With Dean College ID 

Transportation provided call (781) 708-1327 

New England Irish Harp Orchestra - Dec 10
New England Irish Harp Orchestra - Dec 10

Monday, November 27, 2017

Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - 6:00 PM, Nov 28, 2017

Training Session 6:00 PM
Municipal Building – Training Room

Agenda
1. Discussion of School Committee Norms & Communication Protocols
2. Review of Superintendent Evaluation Process
3. Adjourn – move to Council Chambers for Regular Meeting

Regular Meeting
Municipal Building – Council Chambers 7:00 PM
Meetings are recorded by Franklin TV and shown on Comcast channel 11 and Verizon channel 29


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.


A G E N D A

“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.”

Call to Order Dr. Bergen
Pledge of Allegiance Moment of Silence

1. Routine Business
a. Review of Agenda
b. Citizen’s Comments
i. In the spirit of open communication, “the School Committee will hear public comment not related to an agenda item at the beginning of each regular School Committee Meeting. The Committee will listen to, but not respond to any comment made. A Committee member may add an agenda item to a future meeting as a result of a citizen comment” – from Policy BEDH
2. FHS Student Representative Comments

3. Superintendent’s Report

4. Guests / Presentations
a. Concession Stand Proposal – Mr. Michael Socci
b. MCAS Presentation – Dr. Joyce Edwards

5. Discussion / Action Items

a. Addition to FHS student Handbook on Breathalyzer Use – Mr. Peri and Mr. Klements
I recommend making the addition to the FHS Student Handbook as discussed.

b. Extended Field Trip Approval – Instrumental Music to Providence, RI
I recommend approval of the request to take 3rd grade music students to The Veteran’s Auditorium in Providence, RI on May 24, 2018 for a concert as detailed.

c. Policy – Second Reading
i. BEDH – Public Participation at School Committee Meetings I recommend adoption of policy BEDH as discussed.
ii. JJF-R – Student Activity Accounts
I recommend adoption of policy JJF-R as discussed.
iii. BDD – School Committee – Superintendent Relationship I recommend adoption of policy BDD as discussed.

6. Discussion Only Items
a. School Start Times
http://franklinschool.vt-s.net/pages/FranklinCom_Packets/x11-28-2017%20SC/A.%20%20Memo%20about%20School%20Start%20Times.pdf

b. 18-19 School Calendar Draft
http://franklinschool.vt-s.net/pages/FranklinCom_Packets/x11-28-2017%20SC/B.%20%20Draft%20School%20Calendar%202018-2019.pdf

c. School Committee Presentation Schedule 2017-18
http://franklinschool.vt-s.net/pages/FranklinCom_Packets/x11-28-2017%20SC/C.%20%20Draft%202017-2018%20SC%20PRESENTATION%20SCHEDULE.pdf

d. Class Size Report
http://franklinschool.vt-s.net/pages/FranklinCom_Packets/x11-28-2017%20SC/D1.%20%20Memo%20about%20Class%20Size%20Reports.pdf


7. Information Matters
a. School Committee Sub-Committee Reports (e.g. Budget; Community Relations; Policy; Transportation; Public Schools Advocacy; Ad Hoc Superintendent’s Evaluation)
b. School Committee Liaison Reports (e.g. Joint PCC; Substance Abuse Task Force; School Wellness Advisory Council [SWAC]; MASC)

8. New Business
a. To discuss any future agenda items

9. Consent Agenda
a. Approval of Minutes - I recommend approval of the minutes from the November 14, 2017 School Committee Organizational meeting.
b. I recommend acceptance of a check for $852.04 from O’Connor Portraiture for Supplemental Supplies at Davis Thayer Elementary School.
c. I recommend acceptance of a check for $181.74 from Barnes & Noble for in- house enrichment at FHS.
d. I recommend acceptance of a check for $800.00 from David Sylvester/CAVU Wealth Advisors for FHS Scholarships.
e. I recommend acceptance of the donation of a classroom rug valued at $572.42 from Ms. Dunbar, Ms. Lyons, Mr. Bigos, HM Companies Sara & Allison Madden for Parmenter as detailed.
f. I recommend acceptance of the donation of flexible seating options valued at
$544.00 from Ms. Strandskov, Macy’s Gives, M/M Poland, Ms. Trudo, Anonymous, M/M Consilvio, O’Brien Family, Ms. Jennings and Ms. Capaldi for Parmenter as detailed.
g. I recommend approval of the request for a recurring field trip for the RMS Adventure Club to Lincoln, RI to the “Rock Spot” on December 14, 2017 as detailed.
h. I recommend declaring ASMS books listed as surplus.
i. I recommend acceptance of a Swimming Record Board donated by the Swim Booster Club and valued at $1,260.00 as detailed.
j. I recommend acceptance of two Track Record Boards donated by the Track Booster Club and valued at $2,385.00 as detailed.

10. Payment of Bills Dr. Bergen

11. Payroll Ms. Douglas

12. Executive Session
a. Negotiations – non union personnel

13. Adjournment


All the documents released for this agenda can be found on the School Committee page
http://franklinschool.vt-s.net/pages/FranklinCom_Packets/x11-28-2017%20SC/



Franklin Athletics proudly displaying the names of our Track & Field, Indoor and XC record holders! Thank you Track Boosters for making this possible! @FHSPanthersTF @FHS_girlsXC #PantherPride
Franklin Athletics proudly displaying the names of our Track & Field, Indoor and XC record holders! Thank you Track Boosters for making this possible! @FHSPanthersTF @FHS_girlsXC #PantherPride

In the News: home heating assistance; 12 days of donating

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

"Despite threats that funding would be eliminated in President Donald Trump’s preliminary budget, the state’s home heating program will continue to keep low-income families warm this year, just as temperatures are beginning to drop. 
“People can opt out of air conditioning in the New England area, but they can’t opt out of heating,” said Sue Crossley, executive director of Natick-based Family Promise Metrowest. 
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) provides critical help for people who are trying to become self-sufficient after being homeless and helps others avoid becoming homeless, according to Crossley, whose organization assists homeless people."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20171126/after-uncertainty-state-gets-heating-assistance-funds


"The food pantry’s Food Elves are kicking off their 12th annual “12 days of donating” holiday drive, but have switched over to a fund-only model due to a lack of space. 
Scores of elementary, middle, and high school students will be making their neighborhood rounds, passing out flyers and collecting donations during December. 
With dozens of food and fund drives underway, the pantry is out of space to store inventory. Monetary donations that are collected will be used to buy chicken, beef and other meats, dairy products, eggs, fresh vegetables and fruits. 
“In addition, monetary gifts allow us to buy what we need when we need it,” said executive director of the Franklin Food Pantry, Erin Lynch. “They give us the flexibility we need to provide for the more than 1,000 individuals who count on us. We are also able to purchase food through the Greater Boston Food Bank for much less money than people pay in the grocery store.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20171126/franklin-food-elves-launch-holiday-drive

Julia Buccella and Natalie Dextradeur are the Co-Lead Food Elves for the 2017 Campaign (Photo courtesy of Patti Dextradeur.)
Julia Buccella and Natalie Dextradeur are the Co-Lead Food Elves for the
2017 Campaign (Photo courtesy of Patti Dextradeur.)

Norfolk County Registry of Deeds: Register O'Donnell Warns Homeowners About Deed Scam



Norfolk County Registry of Deeds

Register O'Donnell Warns Homeowners About Deed Scam

Continuing his efforts to combat consumer fraud, Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell is once again advising county residents to disregard a direct-mail solicitation offering them a certified copy of their property deed for an outrageous fee of anywhere from $59.50-$83.00.

Register O'Donnell stated, "There is a California company that continues to send direct-mail solicitations to unsuspecting homeowners asking them to send a check for $83.00 in order to receive a copy of their deed. If a consumer knew that the Registry of Deeds would provide them the same certified copy of a property deed for a charge of only $1.00 per page, plus an additional $1.00 for postage, they would never agree to pay such an outrageous fee for service. The average price for a mailed homeowner's deed by the Registry (usually two pages) is $3.00."

"These solicitations," noted O'Donnell, "are labeled Recorded Deed Notice and request that the homeowner forward a check in the amount of $83.00 for a copy of their deed. The Registry has been contacted by many who have received this solicitation. Do not fall for this scam."

Register O'Donnell concluded, "As I stated in a recent WHDH-TV Channel 7 news report with reporter Hank Phillippi Ryan, while the practice may be legal, it's certainly not ethical. From my perspective, this is a scam being perpetrated against hard working Norfolk County residents, many of whom are first-time homeowners or elderly. Consumers are interpreting these notices as a bill, since they are affixed with a due date. I again urge in the strongest terms that Norfolk County citizens not let themselves fall prey to these types of misleading deed scam advertisements."

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, 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 at www.norfolkdeeds.org. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center at (781) 461-6101, or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org.


Register William P. O'Donnell
Norfolk County Registry of Deeds

email: registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org
phone: 781-234-3336
Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, 649 High Street,Dedham,MA 02026-1831

Sent by registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org in collaboration with
Constant Contact
Norfolk County Registry of Deeds: Register O'Donnell Warns Homeowners About Deed Scam
Norfolk County Registry of Deeds: Register O'Donnell Warns Homeowners About Deed Scam

Sunday, November 26, 2017

Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - Nov 29, 2017

The published agenda and documents for the Franklin Town Council meeting scheduled for Wednesday, November 29, 2017

(Note: where there are active links in the agenda item, it will take you to the associated document)

You can also find the full set of documents in one PDF (83 pages)


Agenda ItemSummary


A. Approval of Minutes
A. Approval of Minutes - October 11, 2017, October 25, 2017

B. Announcements
B. Announcements - This meeting is being recorded by Franklin TV and shown on Comcast channel 11 and Verizon channel 29. This meeting may also be recorded by others.
C. Proclamations/Recognitions
C. Proclamations/Recognitions
D. Citizen Comments
D. Citizen Comments - Citizens are welcome to express their views for up to five minutes on a matter that is not on the Agenda. The Council will not engage in a dialogue or comment on a matter raised during Citizen Comments.  The Town Council will give remarks appropriate consideration and may ask the Town Administrator to review the matter.
E. Appointments
E. Appointments - Cultural District Committee
F. Hearings
F. Hearings - Public Hearing - 7:10 pm
1. Tax Classification Hearing
G. License Transactions
G. License Transactions
H. Presentations/Discussions
H. Presentations/Discussions - Snow and Ice Presentation - Brutus Cantoreggi
I. Subcommittee Reports
I. Subcommittee Reports
J. Legislation for Action
J. Legislation for Action
1. Resolution 17-70: Classification Tax Allocation - Residential Factor
2. Resolution 17-71: Classification Tax Allocation - Open Space Exemption
3. Resolution 17-72: Classification Tax Allocation - Small Business Exemption
4. Resolution 17-73: Classification Tax Allocation - Residential Property Exemption
K. Town Administrator's Report
K. Town Administrator's Report
L. Future Agenda Items
L. Future Agenda Items
M. Council Comments
M. Council Comments
N. Executive Session
N. Executive Session - None
O. Adjourn
O. Adjourn

You can also find the Franklin Council District appointment information here
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1K4qNSFXA1TrRiKDnVJkkPc0O4dmP5ewQ


The DPW update on snow and ice in advance of the winter season:




How much snow will we get this winter is an open question? How well prepared are we to deal with is will be answered at the Town Council meeting Wednesday, Nov 29
How much snow will we get this winter is an open question? How well prepared are we to deal with is will be answered at the Town Council meeting Wednesday, Nov 29

Turkey Trot 5K results - #givingTuesday - Franklin Food Pantry

The Turkey Trot 5K on Thanksgiving morning was quite successful. 860 finished running and walking the course to raise money for the Franklin Food Pantry.

The complete results can be found online
http://my2.raceresult.com/86272/#1_90AFFD

or download the PDF version here
http://my2.raceresult.com/86272/RRPublish/pdf.php?name=Result%20Lists%7COVERALL%20RESULTS%20-%20TO%20PRINT&contest=1&lang=en


set up for the runner /walker arrivals and check ins
set up for the runner /walker arrivals and check ins

almost 1,000 ready to start
almost 1,000 ready to start

friends finishing together
friends finishing together




"November 28 is #GivingTuesday. Following the retail events of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, this national day of giving is a chance to give back to those in need. It is a chance to give hope to those who are struggling to have enough to eat. Having enough food gives hope to our clients that they will not be too hungry to focus on all the things that matter. 
Like getting homework done after school. Having the energy to job hunt. Being able to afford heat. Making friends. 
Every bag of groceries our clients bring home is full of hope. More than 1,000 people, including nearly 300 children, count on the Pantry during the year to help make ends meet. 
We hope to raise enough funds to fill 1,000 bags of groceries. You can give the gift of hope now with our #GivingTuesday online donation form. 
Thank you for helping our neighbors, your community. They are counting on us.
The online form to donate to the Franklin Food Pantry for #Giving Tuesday can be found here
https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E188424&id=9

“We’ve developed a pretty unique model to make sure everyone is successful"

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

"Dining out with children can often be a challenge but even more so when those children are autistic. 
Santa will be sitting down for lunch with the families of children with autism at the 45 Restaurant on Sunday Dec. 3, to give everyone to a chance to spend time with the big guy before Christmas. 
Local nonprofit, Autism Eats, will host the lunch at the 45 Restaurant on 45 Milford St., from noon to 2 p.m. The meal costs $21 for adults and $15 for children. Reservations are required, and space is limited. Payments are made online beforehand. 
The event will be held in a private section of the restaurant, and food will be set up buffet style, so there’s no waiting."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20171125/opening-doors-to-autistic-children

Make your reservations online
https://bostonwebcreative.wufoo.com/forms/r1h0te2l0x42jv7/

Meet Santa at this very special Autism Eats-Dell True Ability holiday lunch event - Dec 3
Meet Santa at this very special Autism Eats-
Dell True Ability holiday lunch event - Dec 3

For more about the non-profit organization Autism Eats visit their webpage

With #givingTuesday approaching consider a donation to this cause


Saturday, November 25, 2017

“Now, the common is really decorated nicely”

You can get Santa twice this weekend. Saturday in Bellingham and Sunday in Franklin.  From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"Santa Claus will take a quick jaunt through Bellingham Saturday evening before being delivered to the town common for a lighting ceremony involving hot cocoa, holiday songs and seasonal cheer. 
Santa’s journey will start at 5:25 p.m. at the Bellingham Middle School, and he will be escorted along South Main Street to the common. Local residents are invited to join the escort or view the procession along the route while students hand out candy canes. 
Santa’s quick trip to the common is organized by the Bellingham Lions Club. 
The lighting itself - which begins at 6 p.m. - is a tradition that dates back to the establishment of the town common 20 years ago. Town Common Trustee Chairwoman Joanne Arcand said the ceremony had grown a lot over the years."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20171124/bellingham-town-common-lighting-set-for-saturday


Reminder: The Committee For Concerts on the Common presents The Annual Christmas on the Common Sunday, November 26, 2017 - 4:00 PM


Annual Christmas on the Common - Sunday, Nov 28 - 4:00 PM
Annual Christmas on the Common - Sunday, Nov 28 - 4:00 PM
Additional info on Franklin's event can be found here
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2017/11/annual-christmas-on-common-sunday-nov.html


Small Business Saturday - Nov 25, 2017

While American Express helps to celebrate Small Business Saturday, many of us know how important it is to shop local and #shopFranklin all year.

Small Business Saturday is a holiday shopping tradition that happens every year on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. 
Founded by American Express in 2010, this nationwide movement helps bring attention to the importance of supporting small businesses in communities across America.
There are plenty of small business to  wisely spread your dollars around.

View the Franklin map to see the small businesses identified by American Express

https://www.americanexpress.com/us/small-business/shop-small/maps/near=Franklin,MA,02038/cl=42.0697133,-71.38836350000001?linknav=us-open-shopsmall-globalheader-map&lang=en-US

Small Business Saturday - Nov 25, 2017
Small Business Saturday - Nov 25, 2017

Franklin Garden Club - Annual Holiday Auction - Dec 5

For the first time, the Franklin Garden Club will open its annual Holiday Auction to the public. The event will take place on Tuesday, December 5, beginning at 6:00 PM. at the Franklin Senior Center, 10 Daniel McCahill Street, Franklin. 

 A Silent Auction will run from 6:00 – 7:00 PM followed by a live auction beginning at 7:15 PM. Appetizers and desserts will be served throughout the evening.

The auction will feature a wide variety of holiday items made by Franklin Garden Club members, as well as other donated articles. Items will include beautiful live flower and evergreen arrangements, holiday decorations, baked goods, and other types of home and garden items.

“The auction is a wonderful way to jump start your holiday decorating and purchase gifts for friends and family,” noted Janice Cederquist and Mary Anne Dean, co-presidents of the Garden Club.

All proceeds from the auction help to support the Club’s community activities, which include the awarding of a scholarship to a graduating high school student, the distribution of pine tree seedlings to Franklin first graders to mark Arbor Day, and maintenance of the Franklin Town Common Garden in partnership with the Town.

The Franklin Garden Club, founded in 1987, is a member of the Garden Club Federation of Massachusetts.

Franklin Garden Club - Annual Holiday Auction - Dec 5
Franklin Garden Club - Annual Holiday Auction - Dec 5

Franklin Library: Paul Speidel Blues & Jazz Trio, Nov 29

The Paul Speidel Blues and Jazz Trio will be performing at the Franklin Public Library Wednesday, November 29 at 6:30 p.m. For over twenty years, Paul Speidel has been performing at major clubs and festivals in the Greater Boston area, such as Scullers, Ryles, Johnny D's, Acton Jazz Cafe, and many others. 
He taught Jazz and Blues in the Newton Public Schools during this time, and has presented music programs at public and private venues for just as long. Last year, he had the privilege of performing live on WBUR’s “Radio Boston” program to nearly 500,000 listeners, and has appeared on countless other area radio shows over the years. 
With nine CDs to his credit, Paul’s recordings have been critically recognized nationally, including a 3½ star review in Downbeat in 2011. His credits also include performances with Patti Page, Howard Alden, Jay Geils, Duke Robillard, James Montgomery and Shirley Lewis, to name just a few… 
“Speidel shines with calibrated, elevated playing that draws on his muse and on a congenital sense of what makes sense musically…Three and a half stars!” – Frank-John Hadley, Downbeat Magazine (July 2011) 
“Love it! One of the finest guitarists out there…So great having you on the show. You’re terrific!” (Jordan Rich, WBZ-1030, Boston) 
"Paul Speidel's guitar playing is impressive. He manages to mix blues and jazz and funk naturally and effortlessly. The band is tight and the songs are strong. If you haven't seen Paul, you're missing out on something special right here in Boston!” --Dana Marshall (DJ, Program Manager,WXRV 92.5-FM The River)
Franklin Library: Paul Speidel Blues & Jazz Trio, Nov 29
Franklin Library: Paul Speidel Blues & Jazz Trio, Nov 29

This was shared from the Franklin Library webpage
http://franklinpl.blogspot.com/2017/11/paul-speidel-blues-jazz-trio-wednesday.html


For more about Paul Speidel visit his webpage  http://www.paulspeidelband.com/

Friday, November 24, 2017

Upcoming Events in Franklin, MA Area: FRI 11/24/17 - THU 11/30/17

FRIDAY 11/24/17
7:30pm  Flashback Friday @THE BLACK BOX

SATURDAY 11/25/17
10-1pm   Franklin Historical Museum Open
7:30pm   Christmas Handbell Concert @ Franklin Federated Church

SUNDAY 11/26/17
7:30-10:30am   Sunday Breakfast @ Franklin Rod and Gun Club
1-4pm   Franklin Historical Museum Open
4-6pm   Annual Christmas on the Town Common - visit with Santa and Jingle Elves

MONDAY 11/27/17
10:30am   Move Along (ages 0-5) @ Franklin Public Library
7pm   Learn to Cope Franklin Chapter Meeting @ FUSF

TUESDAY 11/28/17
10:30am   Get Ready for Kindergarten (ages 3-5) @ Franklin Public Library
1pm   Three TED Talks @ Senior Center

WEDNESDAY 11/29/17
10am   Th Constitution with Gary Highlander @ Senior Center
10:30am   Terrific Toddlers (ages 18months to 3 years old) @ Franklin Public Library
4pm   Construction Junction! @ Franklin Public Library
6:30pm   Christian Zen Weekly Meditation @ McMahon Guest House (1061 Upper Union Street)
6:30pm   Learn About Franklin Arts Academy Program at FHS (grade 8-10 students and families welcome) @ FHS
6:30pm   Paul Speidel Blues and Jazz Trio @ Franklin Public Library

THURSDAY 11/30/17
9:30am   Baby Tummy Time! (ages 0-18 months) @ Franklin Public Library
10am   Tinkergarten - FREE trail class @ Fairmount Fruit Farm
10:30am   Story and Craft (ages 3 to 6) @ Franklin Public Library
1pm   Make Lovely Holiday Cards @ Senior Center
6:30pm   Make a Terrarium Class @ Pour Richard’s Wine and Spirits
6:30pm   Community Forum with Superintendent Dr. Ahern @ Municipal Building (3rd floor). All are welcome.
7pm   Healing Hearts Community Support Group @ Franklin YMCA 

Guide to Holiday Lights and Events (includes Franklin, MA) click HERE.

For the Town of Franklin Public Calendar click HERE.

For all other events and Franklin happenings click HERE.

Submit an event for the Community Calendar, please use this FORM

DPW provides an update on the snow/ice plan for winter

The Franklin DPW is scheduled to provide their annual update to the Town Council and community on the snow and ice preparations for this winter.

The document released for the November 29, 2017 meeting is shown below



KP tops FHS in Thanksgiving Day game

From HockomockSports we share the results of the FHS football game vs. King Philip on Thanksgiving.


Franklin, 0 @ King Philip, 28 – Final
1st Quarter: (KP) Brendan Lydon 1-yard rush, Cole Baker XP good.
2nd Quarter: (KP) B. Lydon 12-yard pass to Jack Piller, C. Baker XP good; (KP) B. Lydon 37-yard pass to David Morganelli, C. Baker XP good.
3rd Quarter: (KP) Ryan Halliday 3-yard rush, C. Baker XP good.
4th Quarter: No scoring.


For all the results around the Hockomock League on Thanksgiving
https://hockomocksports.com/thursdays-schedule-scoreboard-11-23-17/


FHS Panthers
FHS Panthers