"the school will be accepting applications through Feb. 27"

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

"Next year’s enrollment at Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School will be bigger than ever. 

With the anticipated opening of a new 72,000-square-foot school building for the 2019-20 school year, the enrollment lottery will be open to 302 new students ranging from K-5. 

A lottery will select 92 kindergartners and 42 students in each grade from first to fifth. In the current building, said Executive Director Heather Zolnowski, the school has only been able to accept 50 kindergarten students. 

“We’re really excited to have the opportunity to be able to open our school and academic program to more families,” she said."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20181107/benjamin-franklin-classical-charter-public-school-to-increase-enrollment


Get an application here  http://bfccps.org/about/enrollment/enrollment-application/

For more about the Charter School, visit them on the internet  http://bfccps.org/

Charter School: Applications Now Open

What is the citizens agenda for Franklin?

One reason many folks are happy the election is over is the end to campaign ads. One problem remains in that the media which has been demonized by the President needs to change. 

We can not continue without folks actively participating in a real civil discourse and expect to get anywhere. Jay Rosen, professor of journalism at NYU has a proposal that coincidentally ties in with something I have started doing and will do more of. It is not a new idea, it actually originated in 1992.

He proposes a single question for campaign coverage. "What do you want the candidates to be discussing as they compete for votes?" I would modify that question for Franklin to be one first asked by Eamon Earls: "What should Franklin look like in 2028?" 2028 would be the 250 anniversary of our founding.

"It’s called a citizens agenda because that’s what it is, a list of action items and declared priorities. What campaign coverage should achieve is serious discussion (among candidates, journalists, campaign observers… and the public) of the stuff on the citizen’s agenda. Election year journalism succeeds, in this model, when it raises awareness, clarity, knowledge and the overall quality of discourse around the various items on the citizen’s agenda. It fails when it permits confusion, ignorance, neglect, demagoguery and silence to prevail on those same items. Truth, fairness, accuracy and non-interference in an outcome that should be determined by voters, not the media: these remain bedrock principles. But there is an agenda here. Journalists should not hesitate to take action on it. They should be clear with themselves and up front with voters about what they’re doing. This isn’t the View from Nowhere."

You can follow the tweet thread here:

'Campaign coverage: the road not taken.' There was a path the American press could have walked, but did not. This alternative way was illuminated as far back as 1992. Our political journalists declined it. And here we are. This thread is that story. 1/

— Jay Rosen (@jayrosen_nyu) November 6, 2018

https://twitter.com/jayrosen_nyu/status/1059864337928671233


As an alternative, you can read his blog post with the proposal 
http://pressthink.org/2010/08/the-citizens-agenda-in-campaign-coverage/


The 'election collection' can be found here
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2018/10/election-collection-2018.html

Election Information for Nov 2018

Sara Jean Ford brings “Generations” to THE BLACK BOX

THE BLACK BOX is proud to present the next concert in its Broadway Series: Sara Jean Ford on Friday, November 16 at 8 pm. In her solo concert, “Generations,” Sara Jean Ford explores all the many generations of music introduced to her over the years and how that music has come to shape and heal her as she made her way to the Broadway stage and beyond. Whether it was through her Grandmother’s love of cheesy soprano ballads, Her Mother’s love for Joni Mitchel and all things Beatles, or her Daughter’s love of Disney music and... Barbie, Sara weaves together a story of passion, perseverance, and positivity through a love of music, and the many generations that introduced it all to her.

Sara Jean Ford

Ford is best known for starring as Christine Daaé on Broadway and in the National Tour of the worldwide sensation The Phantom of the Opera. Also on Broadway she has been seen in Cats (Jellylorum), How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying (Smitty), A Little Night Music (Mrs. Anderssen, Anne/Petra cover), and Finian’s Rainbow (Arlene, Sharon cover). Outside of New York, her credits include Wicked (Glinda/Nessa Rose cover), The Music Man (Marian), Into the Woods (Cinderella), Sunday in the Park With George (Dot), Candide (Cunegonde), Carousel (Carrie), and originating the role of Nellie Oleson in Little House on the Prairie: The Musical. 

Her concert work includes “Dream of Now Dream of Then” and Anyone Can Whistle at City Center Encores!, “Defying Gravity: the Music of Stephen Schwartz and Eric Whitacre” at Lincoln Center, and “Paradise Lost: Shadows and Wings” at Carnegie Hall, Chicago’s Auditorium Theatre, and Walt Disney Concert Hall.

Sara is making her return to Franklin having performed as a special guest at Franklin Performing Arts Company’s annual Gala and Broadway in Franklin weekend. She has also guest taught multiple times at the Franklin School for the Performing Arts. “Generations” is sponsored by Childs Engineering.

Tickets can be purchased at www.theblackboxonline.com or by calling the box office at 508-528-3370. 

In the News: Roy wins, Rausch tops Ross

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

The Franklin delegation changes with challenger Becca Rausch defeating incumbent Richard Ross for Senate while Jeff Roy beat his challenger and Karen Spilka ran unopposed to return to their seats.

"State Rep. Jeff Roy, D-Franklin, won another term representing the 10th Norfolk District, defeating opponent Patrick Casey by earning nearly 60 percent of the vote. 

Roy, who won by a tally of 11,304-8,038, said Tuesday there are four key areas that he’s been working on while in office – schools, addiction, health care reform and economic development. 

“I think a lot of people are awake and realize that this is a very important election, not only nationally but here locally,” said Roy holding a sign on Tuesday afternoon. “This election is about the soul of America and what direction we want to head in.” 

In Medway, Roy, who has served three two-year terms, received 2,727 votes over Republican Casey, a Franklin Town Council member, who had 1,996. In Franklin, Roy received 8,577 votes to Casey’s 6,042."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20181106/state-rep-jeff-roy-wins-10th-norfolk-seat-again

"Democratic challenger Becca Rausch pulled an upset, defeating incumbent state Sen. Richard Ross, R-Wrentham, in the Norfolk, Bristol, and Middlesex District, according to the Rausch campaign. 

The final count was 37,323-35,641, announced in a text message to the Daily News by the Rausch campaign. 

Rausch texted at approximately 1:20 a.m. Wednesday, “WE WON!!!! Pending confirmation of all the numbers, but we are confident.” The outcome hung on the result from Attleboro, the last of the 12 communities in the district to report. Attleboro went 3,387-3,055 for Ross."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20181107/democrat-becca-rausch-upset-winner-over-republican-state-sen-richard-ross


The 'election collection' can be found here
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2018/10/election-collection-2018.html

Election Information for Nov 2018

FREE Two-Night Women's Self Defense Workshop - Nov 13-14

As part of their continuing community partnership, Lifelong Community Learning and the Franklin Police Department present a FREE Two-Night Women's Self Defense Workshop

Participate in this very important two-night workshop to learn realistic self-defense strategies for women ages 16 - 65.

DATES: November 13 and 14
TIME: 6:00 to 9:00 PM
LOCATION: Franklin High School, 218 Oak Street

Officer Tara Lagoa will discuss:
- Risk reduction and avoidance
- Situational awareness
- How to trust your intuition
- Basic hands-on self-defense techniques
- Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) System

Empowering class for mothers and daughters to attend together!

Learn how to put power into your own hands! REGISTER 
https://reg.abcsignup.com/reg/event_page.aspx?ek=0079-0003-9c5db6bc1b80446fb7b5caa9b26e7c51

FREE Two-Night Women's Self Defense Workshop - Nov 13-14

Franklin Turkey Trot 5K Family Run - Nov 22 - 8:00 AM

Run Now Gobble Later at the Franklin Turkey Trot 5K Family Run on Thanksgiving morning at 8 AM. 

All race proceeds go to the Franklin Food Pantry! Last year the race raised over $17,000!! 

Free breakfast items, free raffle and awards at the end of the race.

Register Online (preferable)
http://www.franklinturkeytrot.org/

Wednesday Night from 7-9 PM 
or Morning of Race starting at 7 AM


Cost: $20 or 20 nonperishable food items
T-shirts: To first 150 registered online
Awards: Top 3 finishers in each age category
Bib Pickup: Wednesday Night from 7-9 PM or Morning of Race starting at 7 AM
Dogs: Dogs are NOT permitted on the race course during the race

Franklin Turkey Trot Registration OPEN

In the News:Voters reject Question 1, approve Question 2 and Question 3

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

"Three democratic women were re-elected to office: Maura Healey, Suzanne Bump and Deborah Goldberg. 

Massachusetts went solidly for incumbents at the top of Tuesday’s ballot, and it wasn’t just the landslide for Gov. Charlie Baker and Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito and Sen. Elizabeth Warren."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20181106/states-top-office-holders-sweep-to-re-election


Ballot Question 1

"Voters in Massachusetts have rejected a ballot question that would have set patient-to-nurse ratio limits in Bay State medical facilities, according to the Massachusetts Nurses Association. 

“I’m very disappointed by tonight’s results and the impact that this will have on our patients,” said Donna Kelly–Williams, of the Massachusetts Nurses Association, as reported by our media partner, WCVB-TV. 

The ballot question would have established nurse-to-patient ratios in various hospital units and set penalties for hospitals that failed to comply."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20181106/question-1-mass-nurses-association-concedes-defeat


Ballot Question 2

"Massachusetts voters have approved a ballot question stemming from a U.S. Supreme Court ruling on corporate political spending. 

The measure calls for creation of a 15-member commission that would be charged with advancing a constitutional amendment that would reverse the 2010 Citizens United decision. The ruling prohibits the government from limiting political spending by corporations, unions and other groups. 

Critics say the ruling has paved the way for corporations and wealthy special interests to spend freely and exert undue influence on political campaigns."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20181106/question-2-voters-back-political-spending-question-in-massachusetts


Ballot Question 3

"Massachusetts voters resoundingly reaffirmed the rights of transgender people Tuesday, voting by a 2-1 ratio to uphold the 2016 state law that bars discrimination against them in such public places as restaurants, bars, and athletic facilities. 

With 69 percent of ballots tallied, the “Yes on 3” side, which favored preserving the nondiscrimination law, was leading 68 percent to 32 percent. 

Transgender activists, volunteers, and family members who gathered for an election night watch party at the Fairmont Copley Plaza roared at the news of victory just before 10 p.m., waving a flag representing transgender rights and chanting “Yes on 3!”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/2018/11/06/question-asks-voters-weigh-transgender-rights-public-places/JgXjOlfcnJgQnHlf87Q0hJ/story.html

Election Information for Nov 2018

Franklin - Unofficial Results for Nov 6. 2018 State election

With over 14,000 voters turning out via absentee, early voters and those who came out on a rainy day Franklin has the following results: Note all of these are currently UNOFFICIAL for the State Election on Nov 6,2018.


https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vL5cv_v-RE_b9usbd1KzVufEnpQ5Oyf3/view?usp=sharing

Election Information for Nov 2018

Franklin Newcomers and Friends 45th annual Craft Fair - Nov 10

Less than a week to go until the Franklin Newcomers and Friends 45th annual Craft Fair! 

It will be held this Saturday, November 10, from 9 AM to 3 PM at the Tri-County High School in Franklin. 

Entry fee is $3, no charge for children ages 12 and under.

In addition to all the great artisans, bake table items and raffle prizes, we'll be collecting donations for the Franklin Food Pantry. 

Please consider bringing some items on their current needs list:

• Flour (white, 2 lbs. or larger)
• Coffee
• White tuna
• Stuffing
• Granola bars
• Small boxes of cereal
• Apple filling
• Soap bars
• Toothbrushes
• Feminine hygiene products
• Razors
• Toothpaste
• Deodorant

Thank you in advance for your donations!

Franklin Newcomers and Friends 45th annual Craft Fair - Nov 10

Election Day - voting from 6 AM to 8 PM at Franklin High School

The collection of posts covering the election of 2018 for the Franklin, MA voters. 

Tuesday, November 6, 2018

Franklin High School, Oak Street

6:00 AM – 8:00 PM

 


What precinct am I?
http://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk/files/what-precinct-am-i-0

What does the ballot look like?

• Precinct 1, 2, 3, 4, 7

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Hthk_gwAXMkKkNxyhFngqI2l6mBv1RbC/view?usp=sharing

• Precinct 5, 6, 8

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NH0g86NC7IaabVtMJyXoqQgsFJMrN6Gs/view?usp=sharing

Note: the only difference is the color header for the ballot. There is a different color for absentee (shown here). Another color for early voters and a third color for today's voters.

The Franklin Town Clerk page with additional information
http://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk

The 'election collection' can be found here
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2018/10/election-collection-2018.html

Election Information for Nov 2018

Christmas on the Common - Nov 25

With Halloween behind us, Christmas rapidly approaching, the tree lights will be turned on at the Town Common on Sunday, Nov 25 at 4:00 PM.

Santa Claus will be delivered via the Franklin Fire Dept. There will be music and refreshments and "Jingles, the Elf".

To help decorate the Town Common, donations are welcome by sending to

Concerts on the Common
PO Box 92
Franklin, MA  02038

Christmas on the Common - Nov 25

This was shared from the Town of Franklin page
http://www.franklinma.gov/home/news/christmas-common-community-event

FHS field hockey wins to move on to semi-finals on Thursday

Via HockomockSports we share the playoff results for the FHS field hockey team

Field Hockey = D1 South

#13 Franklin, 3 @ #5 Plymouth North, 2 – Final
– Franklin scored the first three goals of the game and then held off a comeback attempt from Plymouth North to earn the win on the road. 

The Panthers seized the lead at the 10th minute when Regan Paterson scored off an assist from Amanda Lewandowski. Sara Carney made it 2-0 just over a minute before halftime with Cassi Ronan and Paterson earning assists. Franklin added to its lead 10 minutes into the second half when Carney set up Lewandowski to make it 3-0. 

Plymouth North got on the board just two minutes later, and made it a one-goal game with 10 minutes to play but Christina Luccini didn’t allow the hosts to tie the game. 

Franklin advances to the semifinal to face top seed Walpole on Thursday at Taunton High.


For other results around the Hockomock League
https://hockomocksports.com/mondays-schedule-scoreboard-11-05-18/

The updated MIAA bracket for the field hockey playoffs can be found
http://miaa.statebrackets.com/tmenu.cfm?tid=4973

FHS Panthers

FHS field hockey wins to move on to semi-finals on Thursday

Info night for Gr Franklin Distinguished Young Women Program - Nov 14

Calling all juniors in high school who want to earn scholarship money and learn how to be their best self. Join us for our info night as we welcome new members of the Class of 2019!

The Franklin Distinguished Young Women program is an official local preliminary of Distinguished Young Women, a national scholarship program that promotes and rewards scholarship, leadership, and talent in young women.

When: November 14, 2018 at 7 PM – 8:30 PM
Where: Hockomock YMCA, 45 Forge Hill Rd, Franklin, Massachusetts 02038

Follow the event on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/FranklinDistinguishedYoungWomen/

Info night for Gr Franklin Distinguished Young Women Program - Nov 14

Charter School: Applications Now Open

BFCCPS is excited to commence our enrollment season for the 2019-2020 School Year! While historically BFCCPS has maintained a lengthy waiting list, this year’s enrollment process is your best chance at securing enrollment at BFCCPS in Grades K-5.

We will be adding two new classrooms for Kindergarten through Grade 5 as we open our brand new 72,000 square foot school. 92 spaces will be offered for Kindergarten and 40 new spaces will be offered in all grades Grades One through Five. 

Applications for Grade Six through Eight will be accepted as openings occur or will receive a wait list position.

Get an application here  http://bfccps.org/about/enrollment/enrollment-application/

For more about the Charter School, visit them on the internet  http://bfccps.org/

Charter School: Applications Now Open

In the News: "That’s what it’s about, thinking about it differently"

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

"A developer plans to build 53 new single-family homes on what is Schmidt’s Farm at 215 Prospect St., according to plans submitted to the Department of Planning and Community Development. 

Maddi North Street Development LLC wants to build the homes on 114.5 acres in a subdivision called Prospect Farms. 

The homes would be built along a new 6,650-foot horseshoe-shaped road, with a small side street reconnecting with the main one. The main road would connect Prospect Street to Nicholas Drive , according to the plans."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20181105/developer-files-plans-for-53-home-subdivision-in-franklin

"In Massachusetts, about 120,000 people are living with dementia of some variety. 

In Franklin an estimated 13 percent of citizens over 65, or about 548 people, have been diagnosed with the disease and according to director at the Franklin Senior Center Karen Alves, that number is expected to grow over the next decade. 

“We want a community that is respectful and aware of dementia, folks who are living with it, and their caregivers,” Alves said. “We’re looking to reduce the stigma of dementia, as well as the social isolation that folks that are living with it experience.” 

The senior center is now taking steps for the town to become one of the municipalities in the state that will have official Dementia Friendly Community status. The facility was recently awarded a grant of $12,000 and is now putting the money to work to ease the lives of people living with dementia and their caretakers."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20181105/franklin-strives-to-be-dementia-friendly-community

"That’s what it’s about, thinking about it differently"