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Providing accurate and timely information about what matters in Franklin, MA since 2007. * Working in collaboration with Franklin TV and Radio (wfpr.fm) since October 2019 *
Tuesday, May 7, 2019
FTC Parental Advisory: Dating Apps
Monday, May 6, 2019
Franklin Democrats to Caucus May 18
Registered Democrats in Franklin will be holding a caucus at the Franklin Public Library located at 118 Main Street on May 18 to elect delegates and alternates to the 2019 Massachusetts Democratic State Convention.
Registration begins at 1:00 PM, and the Caucus opens at 1:30 PM You must be registered no later than 1:45 PM to vote or be considered as a delegate. Voting will begin at 1:45 PM.
This year's state convention will be held Saturday, Sept. 14, at the MassMutual Center in Springfield for the purpose of amending the Party Charter.
The caucus is open to all registered and preregistered Democrats in Franklin. New this year, preregistered Democrats who will be 16 years of age by May 11, 2019, will be allowed to participate and run as a delegate or alternate. A Franklin voter may register as a Democrat with the Town Clerk or at the caucus and then run for a delegate slot. Delegate candidates must be present or have informed a co-chair of the Franklin Democratic Town Committee prior to the Caucus of their intent to be nominated.
At the caucus, Democrats will elect 14 delegates and 4 alternates to the convention. Delegates will be divided equally between men and women with one any-gender delegate, and all ballots will be written and secret.
In the spirit of inclusion, youth, minorities, people with disabilities, and LGBTQ individuals who are not elected as a delegate or alternate may apply to be an add-on delegate at the caucus or at www.massdems.org. The deadline to apply to be an add-on delegate is July 8.
The Franklin Public Library is handicapped accessible.
For more information on the caucus and the Franklin Democratic Town Committee, please contact Chair Tonya Price at Chair@FranklinDemocrats.com, find us on facebook, visit our website at FranklinDemocrats.com
Registration begins at 1:00 PM, and the Caucus opens at 1:30 PM You must be registered no later than 1:45 PM to vote or be considered as a delegate. Voting will begin at 1:45 PM.
This year's state convention will be held Saturday, Sept. 14, at the MassMutual Center in Springfield for the purpose of amending the Party Charter.
The caucus is open to all registered and preregistered Democrats in Franklin. New this year, preregistered Democrats who will be 16 years of age by May 11, 2019, will be allowed to participate and run as a delegate or alternate. A Franklin voter may register as a Democrat with the Town Clerk or at the caucus and then run for a delegate slot. Delegate candidates must be present or have informed a co-chair of the Franklin Democratic Town Committee prior to the Caucus of their intent to be nominated.
At the caucus, Democrats will elect 14 delegates and 4 alternates to the convention. Delegates will be divided equally between men and women with one any-gender delegate, and all ballots will be written and secret.
In the spirit of inclusion, youth, minorities, people with disabilities, and LGBTQ individuals who are not elected as a delegate or alternate may apply to be an add-on delegate at the caucus or at www.massdems.org. The deadline to apply to be an add-on delegate is July 8.
The Franklin Public Library is handicapped accessible.
For more information on the caucus and the Franklin Democratic Town Committee, please contact Chair Tonya Price at Chair@FranklinDemocrats.com, find us on facebook, visit our website at FranklinDemocrats.com
Franklin Democrats to Caucus May 18 |
St Mary's Women’s Faith Formation Group - May 18
All women are invited to join the St Mary's Women’s Faith Formation Group on Saturday, May 18 from 9 – 10 AM in the lower church hall at St. Mary Church in Franklin (One Church Square).
We continue our viewing of Bishop Barron’s “Catholicism” series, with small group discussion to follow. Since segments are on independent topics, we encourage you to attend even if you missed previous sessions.
Light refreshments will be served.
Feel free to bring a friend - all are welcome!
We continue our viewing of Bishop Barron’s “Catholicism” series, with small group discussion to follow. Since segments are on independent topics, we encourage you to attend even if you missed previous sessions.
Light refreshments will be served.
Feel free to bring a friend - all are welcome!
St Mary's Women’s Faith Formation Group - Mar 16 |
Broadway’s Mamie Parris to Bring Solo Show to THE BLACK BOX - May 11
THE BLACK BOX Broadway Series presents Mamie Parris in a one-night-only solo show accompanied by Broadway composer Barbara Anselmi (It Should Have Been You) on Saturday, May 11 at 8 PM.
On Broadway, Mamie most recently returned to the cast of School of Rock in the role of Rosalie. She previously starred as Grizabella in the Broadway revival of Andrew Lloyd Webber's iconic musical CATS. Her other Broadway and National Tour credits include School of Rock (Patty) (cast album), Wicked (Elphaba), 9 To 5 The Musical (as Judy Bernly, the role created by Jane Fonda in the iconic film), the Tony-Nominated revival of Ragtime, 5-time Tony-Winner The Drowsy Chaperone, Legally Blonde the Musical, and Roundabout Theatre’s acclaimed revivals of On The 20th Century (Agnes) (cast album), and 110 In the Shade (cast album).
Off-Broadway credits include Pump Boys and Dinettes (Prudie), part of the Encores! Off-Center series, and See Rock City and Other Destinations (Dodi) presented by the Transport Group (cast album out now). Other notable credits include roles at The Goodspeed Opera House, Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera, The Muny, The Macau International Music Festival in Macau, China, and many more. Her film and television credits include The Blacklist (NBC), A Stand Up Guy (Orchard), and State of Affairs (NBC).
Composer Barbara Anselmi has a long resume as a music director, arranger, and orchestrator. Her writing career began after 9/11 with All Join Together, the title song of a CD that raised money for The New York Times 9/11 fund. Other works include The Orphan Train, book/lyrics by Susan and Sasha Nanus, A Christmas Carol, and The Acting Company Salon Series, (starring F. Murray Abraham and Lynn Redgrave).
She was a part of the Drama Desk Award nominee "The Audience," and worked for companies such as Theatreworks USA, the Goodspeed Opera House, and Musicals Tonight. Her work has been heard on television and concerts across the country. Barbara is a Faculty member at CAP 21 Musical Theatre Conservatory, The New Studio at NYU, and Barnard College, and Alumna of NYU and the BMI Lehman Engel Musical Theater Workshop.
The concert is sponsored by the Waters Corporation and Middlesex Savings Bank. Tickets can be purchased at www.theblackboxonline.com by calling 508-528-3370, or at the door.
On Broadway, Mamie most recently returned to the cast of School of Rock in the role of Rosalie. She previously starred as Grizabella in the Broadway revival of Andrew Lloyd Webber's iconic musical CATS. Her other Broadway and National Tour credits include School of Rock (Patty) (cast album), Wicked (Elphaba), 9 To 5 The Musical (as Judy Bernly, the role created by Jane Fonda in the iconic film), the Tony-Nominated revival of Ragtime, 5-time Tony-Winner The Drowsy Chaperone, Legally Blonde the Musical, and Roundabout Theatre’s acclaimed revivals of On The 20th Century (Agnes) (cast album), and 110 In the Shade (cast album).
Mamie Parris in Wicked as Elphaba |
Off-Broadway credits include Pump Boys and Dinettes (Prudie), part of the Encores! Off-Center series, and See Rock City and Other Destinations (Dodi) presented by the Transport Group (cast album out now). Other notable credits include roles at The Goodspeed Opera House, Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera, The Muny, The Macau International Music Festival in Macau, China, and many more. Her film and television credits include The Blacklist (NBC), A Stand Up Guy (Orchard), and State of Affairs (NBC).
Composer Barbara Anselmi has a long resume as a music director, arranger, and orchestrator. Her writing career began after 9/11 with All Join Together, the title song of a CD that raised money for The New York Times 9/11 fund. Other works include The Orphan Train, book/lyrics by Susan and Sasha Nanus, A Christmas Carol, and The Acting Company Salon Series, (starring F. Murray Abraham and Lynn Redgrave).
She was a part of the Drama Desk Award nominee "The Audience," and worked for companies such as Theatreworks USA, the Goodspeed Opera House, and Musicals Tonight. Her work has been heard on television and concerts across the country. Barbara is a Faculty member at CAP 21 Musical Theatre Conservatory, The New Studio at NYU, and Barnard College, and Alumna of NYU and the BMI Lehman Engel Musical Theater Workshop.
The concert is sponsored by the Waters Corporation and Middlesex Savings Bank. Tickets can be purchased at www.theblackboxonline.com by calling 508-528-3370, or at the door.
Register O'Donnell Makes History Come Alive
Norfolk County Registry of Deeds | |||
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Register O'Donnell Makes History Come Alive |
Two key MBTA projects delayed with commuter rail impact
On the MBTA front, there are two reports with delays in projects
https://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/2019/05/03/key-mbta-fare-system-delayed/MLo5h5jRYQROLxyhhPypFP/story.html
And earlier last week, there was also a delay announced with the implementation of the new PTC system.
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/2019/04/29/equipment-problems-hampering-key-safety-project-mbta-commuter-rail/kVFOmAsBpODDQosSiLZ6mL/story.html
How does the automated fare collection system work for commuter rail?
"The MBTA’s $700 million effort to convert to all-electronic fare collection is behind schedule, a blow to a high-profile project that the agency has cast as a near silver-bullet solution to many of its service problems and pricing limitations.
Officials declined to specify how long it will now take to implement the fare system, originally scheduled for completion in 2021, nor are they saying exactly what has gone wrong. But the delays apparently involve technology issues with the T’s vendor, as well as difficult policy decisions, such as how to conduct random fare checks that the new system will require."Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/2019/05/03/key-mbta-fare-system-delayed/MLo5h5jRYQROLxyhhPypFP/story.html
And earlier last week, there was also a delay announced with the implementation of the new PTC system.
"Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority officials are worried the agency will miss a key deadline to install a federally required safety system on the commuter rail, with testing of the long-planned system delayed by an equipment issue.
The new positive train control system, known as PTC, uses a high-tech network to ensure trains don’t collide. The $459 million project was supposed to be fully installed and operational by the end of next year, but hardware and software problems could threaten that timeline, officials told the MBTA’s governing board Monday.
The key problem is faulty equipment, built by the international conglomerate Siemens, a subcontractor on the project, that is designed to relay information about train locations and speeds."
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/2019/04/29/equipment-problems-hampering-key-safety-project-mbta-commuter-rail/kVFOmAsBpODDQosSiLZ6mL/story.html
How does the automated fare collection system work for commuter rail?
"on the commuter rail, passengers would tap into the system before they board trains and tap out when they reach their destination, so the T can calculate the distance-based fares."https://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/2017/11/19/the-mbta-has-million-plan-change-way-you-pay-for-rides/f1QQZDfPHnozcyBGyHSWPI/story.html?p1=Article_Inline_Text_Link
Two key MBTA projects delayed |
What is the process for a Prop 2 1/2 ballot question?
Inquiring minds might ask "How do we avoid letting so many teachers go and raise school fees?" The town budget is balanced to meet expected revenue. The only way to increase the expected revenue is for the majority of the voters to agree to do so.
"PLACING QUESTIONS BEFORE VOTERS
Proposition 2½ questions are placed on an election ballot by vote of the "local
appropriating body," which is defined in towns as the selectboard, not town meeting. In
towns without selectboards, a vote of the town council is required to present a question to
the electorate. In cities, a vote of the city council, with the mayor's approval where
required by law, is needed. G.L. c. 59, § 21C(a).
This is the only way an override or exclusion question may be placed on the ballot. They
may not be placed on the ballot by a town meeting vote or any local initiative procedure
authorized by law. A local initiative procedure, however, may be used as an alternative
method of placing an underride question on the ballot.
The board or council must vote the question exactly as it will appear on the ballot.
ELECTION PROCEDURE
Proposition 2½ questions may be placed on a regular or special municipal election ballot.
Questions may also be placed on the state biennial election ballot. However, those
questions must be submitted to the Secretary of State for certification by the first
Wednesday in August preceding the election. G.L. c. 59, § 21C(i).
The usual laws and procedures relating to municipal elections apply. The municipal clerk
must receive written notice of the question being placed on the ballot at least 35 days
before the date of the election. G.L. c. 54, § 42C. The vote to place a question on the
ballot must take place in sufficient time to meet this advance notice requirement.
A city or town may present Proposition 2½ questions to the voters as many times during
the year as it chooses. The only constraint on the interval between these elections is the
time needed to call and hold each election.
The Office of the Secretary of State is responsible for administering and enforcing
election laws. Specific questions about the application of these laws to Proposition 2½
elections should be directed to the Elections Division of that office at 617-727-2828."
Additional info on the process can be found in the Division of Local Services (DLS) bulletin which is part of the MA Dept of Revenue (DOR).
https://www.mass.gov/files/documents/2018/07/31/prop2.pdf?_ga=2.5588468.630711474.1557137379-1789922467.1514424883
DOR also has a series of short videos to explain the process
https://www.mass.gov/service-details/proposition-2-12-and-tax-rate-process
"PLACING QUESTIONS BEFORE VOTERS
Proposition 2½ questions are placed on an election ballot by vote of the "local
appropriating body," which is defined in towns as the selectboard, not town meeting. In
towns without selectboards, a vote of the town council is required to present a question to
the electorate. In cities, a vote of the city council, with the mayor's approval where
required by law, is needed. G.L. c. 59, § 21C(a).
This is the only way an override or exclusion question may be placed on the ballot. They
may not be placed on the ballot by a town meeting vote or any local initiative procedure
authorized by law. A local initiative procedure, however, may be used as an alternative
method of placing an underride question on the ballot.
The board or council must vote the question exactly as it will appear on the ballot.
ELECTION PROCEDURE
Proposition 2½ questions may be placed on a regular or special municipal election ballot.
Questions may also be placed on the state biennial election ballot. However, those
questions must be submitted to the Secretary of State for certification by the first
Wednesday in August preceding the election. G.L. c. 59, § 21C(i).
The usual laws and procedures relating to municipal elections apply. The municipal clerk
must receive written notice of the question being placed on the ballot at least 35 days
before the date of the election. G.L. c. 54, § 42C. The vote to place a question on the
ballot must take place in sufficient time to meet this advance notice requirement.
A city or town may present Proposition 2½ questions to the voters as many times during
the year as it chooses. The only constraint on the interval between these elections is the
time needed to call and hold each election.
The Office of the Secretary of State is responsible for administering and enforcing
election laws. Specific questions about the application of these laws to Proposition 2½
elections should be directed to the Elections Division of that office at 617-727-2828."
Additional info on the process can be found in the Division of Local Services (DLS) bulletin which is part of the MA Dept of Revenue (DOR).
https://www.mass.gov/files/documents/2018/07/31/prop2.pdf?_ga=2.5588468.630711474.1557137379-1789922467.1514424883
DOR also has a series of short videos to explain the process
https://www.mass.gov/service-details/proposition-2-12-and-tax-rate-process
What is the process for a Prop 2 1/2 ballot question? |
Sunday, May 5, 2019
Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - May 8, 2019
The published agenda and documents for the Franklin Town Council meeting scheduled for Wednesday, May 8, 2019
You can also find the full set of documents in one PDF
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/town_council_meeting_agenda_for_may_8_2019_1.pdf(Note: where there are active links in the agenda item, it will take you to the associated document)
Agenda Item | Summary |
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Town Council Meeting Agenda |
Meeting of May 8, 2019
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1. ANNOUNCEMENTS |
a. This meeting is being recorded by Franklin TV and shown on Comcast Channel 11 and Verizon Channel 29. This meeting may be recorded by others.
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2. CITIZENS COMMENTS |
a. 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.
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3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES |
April 24, 2019
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4. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS |
None
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5. APPOINTMENTS |
a. Franklin Cultural District, Roberta DeBaggis Trahan
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6. HEARINGS |
None
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7. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS |
La Cantina Winery Company, Farmer Winery, Farmers Market
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8. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS |
a. Senate President Karen Spilka, Senator Rebecca Rausch, State Representative Jeffrey Roy
b. Franklin Ridge Senior Housing Proposal
|
9. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS |
a. Capital Budget Subcommittee
b. Budget Subcommittee
c. Economic Development Subcommittee
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10. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION | |
10a. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION |
Resolution 19-31: Franklin Ridge Senior Housing Development (Motion to Approve Resolution 19-31- Majority Vote (5))
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10b. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION |
Bylaw Amendment 19-838: Amendment to the Franklin Town Code at Ch.153 Stormwater Management- 2nd Reading (Motion to Adopt Bylaw Amendment 19-838- Majority Vote (5))
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10c. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION |
Bylaw Amendment 19-841: Municipal Service Fees- Ten Day Recycling Sticker- 2nd Reading (Motion to Adopt Bylaw Amendment 19-841- Majority Vote (5))
|
11. TOWN ADMINISTRATORS REPORT | |
12. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS | |
13. COUNCIL COMMENTS Executive Session | None scheduled |
15. ADJOURN |
Franklin ArtWeek Schedule for Sunday, May 5, 2019
Sunday, May 5
9:00 -12:00: FPAC 5K and 1 mile Fun Run at THE BLACK BOX ($10/$25)
The first annual Franklin Performing Arts Company Road Race will begin and end at THE BLACK BOX. Along the route, runners will be entertained and encouraged by sidewalk art created by student artists. THE BLACK BOX theater will feature face painting, finish line sign- making for children, and a celebration with live music in the theater lobby.
Race start time is 10:00 a.m. Race fees: 5K: $25 advance, $35 day-of; Fun Run: $10 advance, $15 day-of.
Runner check-in 9:00. Free activities begin 10:00.
Register: www.fpaconline.com
10:00 - 2:00: Throwing Seeds mural painting at Franklin Agway (FREE) Come watch farmer and artist Tyler Harris create a mural on Agway's fence as he interprets the phrase “Throwing Seeds”. Tyler grew up in Franklin and is now the manager of a farm in Dartmouth Mass.
12:00 - 2:00: The Art of Canning Pickles at Franklin Agway (FREE)
You can enjoy the taste of summer year round by learning how to preserve vegetables at their peak ripeness. Learn where and when to get your fresh produce at Franklin's local farms as well as how to make your own pickles! Stir & chop, or just watch. Learn the lost culinary art of canning. It's fun and yummy! Outdoor event; weather permitting.
1:30 - 2:15: NoteAble Blend concert at the Franklin Public Library (FREE) NoteAble Blend, an energetic women's barbershop chorus, will perform an a cappella performance, including a fun and lively description of the four parts of barbershop.
1:30 - 5:00: Post-It Note Collage at Franklin Public Library ~ In celebration of ArtWeek 2019, the Youth Services department will be building a Post-It Note Collage! But we need your help! Stop by anytime during the week to help add post-it notes to the wall. What will the final image be?? Only time will tell!!
3:00 - 3:45: NoteAble Blend concert at the Franklin Historical Museum (FREE) NoteAble Blend, an energetic women's barbershop chorus, will perform an a cappella performance, including a fun and lively description of the four parts of barbershop.
Download your copy of the full schedule for ArtWeek here
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0wjbnXDBhczODN4X2hTdVdobWpWWTlpR19WMFZHZE5JWHVz/view?usp=sharing
9:00 -12:00: FPAC 5K and 1 mile Fun Run at THE BLACK BOX ($10/$25)
The first annual Franklin Performing Arts Company Road Race will begin and end at THE BLACK BOX. Along the route, runners will be entertained and encouraged by sidewalk art created by student artists. THE BLACK BOX theater will feature face painting, finish line sign- making for children, and a celebration with live music in the theater lobby.
Race start time is 10:00 a.m. Race fees: 5K: $25 advance, $35 day-of; Fun Run: $10 advance, $15 day-of.
Runner check-in 9:00. Free activities begin 10:00.
Register: www.fpaconline.com
10:00 - 2:00: Throwing Seeds mural painting at Franklin Agway (FREE) Come watch farmer and artist Tyler Harris create a mural on Agway's fence as he interprets the phrase “Throwing Seeds”. Tyler grew up in Franklin and is now the manager of a farm in Dartmouth Mass.
12:00 - 2:00: The Art of Canning Pickles at Franklin Agway (FREE)
You can enjoy the taste of summer year round by learning how to preserve vegetables at their peak ripeness. Learn where and when to get your fresh produce at Franklin's local farms as well as how to make your own pickles! Stir & chop, or just watch. Learn the lost culinary art of canning. It's fun and yummy! Outdoor event; weather permitting.
1:30 - 2:15: NoteAble Blend concert at the Franklin Public Library (FREE) NoteAble Blend, an energetic women's barbershop chorus, will perform an a cappella performance, including a fun and lively description of the four parts of barbershop.
1:30 - 5:00: Post-It Note Collage at Franklin Public Library ~ In celebration of ArtWeek 2019, the Youth Services department will be building a Post-It Note Collage! But we need your help! Stop by anytime during the week to help add post-it notes to the wall. What will the final image be?? Only time will tell!!
3:00 - 3:45: NoteAble Blend concert at the Franklin Historical Museum (FREE) NoteAble Blend, an energetic women's barbershop chorus, will perform an a cappella performance, including a fun and lively description of the four parts of barbershop.
Download your copy of the full schedule for ArtWeek here
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0wjbnXDBhczODN4X2hTdVdobWpWWTlpR19WMFZHZE5JWHVz/view?usp=sharing
Franklin ArtWeek Schedule for Sunday, May 5, 2019 |
"when you’re picking a school you have to be picking it for more than just sports"
Elizabeth Clark, student and writer for Pantherbook, recently published an interview with Kristi Kirshe.
https://franklinpanthers.us/sports/2019/05/03/fhs-alumni-kristi-kirshe-to-the-olympics/
"Every athlete imagines having successes in high school, college, and eventually the big stage of either professional sports or Olympic sports. For one Panther alumna, she had successes in high school, collegiately, and is now taking the Olympic stage, in a way many wouldn’t expect.
Kristi Kirshe, FHS Class of 2013, will play for the USA Rugby team. In high school, she was a Gatorade Player of the Year for soccer, and a standout in basketball and lacrosse as well. She went on to play soccer at Williams College, where she was the all-time leading scorer of goals in a season (18), career goals (43), and career points (114). After college, she missed being a competitive athlete and got involved in rugby. I recently got a chance to talk to her about her successes in high school, college, and now her involvement in rugby."Continue reading the interview with Kristi
https://franklinpanthers.us/sports/2019/05/03/fhs-alumni-kristi-kirshe-to-the-olympics/
Kristi Kirshe (US Rugby photo) |
Panther TV: Interview with Paul Peri
If you have ever wanted to know a little more about Paul Peri, the principal at Franklin High School, this video will either answer some of your questions, or raise other for you to ask Paul when you see him next.
Thanks Panther TV!
For additional Panther TV videos, check out their page on YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC97g5EtUvUnrmRU50srGOew
Thanks Panther TV!
For additional Panther TV videos, check out their page on YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC97g5EtUvUnrmRU50srGOew
Franklin Cultural District: Dedication Celebration - May 10
Dear Cultural District Partners,
The Town of Franklin and the Franklin Cultural District Committee are honored to announce the Dedication Celebration of Franklin’s Cultural District. The festivities will begin with a formal Dedication Ceremony at the Franklin Historical Museum on Friday, May 10, at 3:30 PM. The Dedication Ceremony will be followed by a celebration at THE BLACK BOX, which will include light refreshments and entertainment. All are welcome to attend.
We would also like to remind you of our upcoming Partners' Meeting on Wednesday, May 15 at 7:00 PM. This meeting will be held in the Franklin Public Library community room.
We hope to see you all at these upcoming events.
The Franklin Cultural District Committee
The Town of Franklin and the Franklin Cultural District Committee are honored to announce the Dedication Celebration of Franklin’s Cultural District. The festivities will begin with a formal Dedication Ceremony at the Franklin Historical Museum on Friday, May 10, at 3:30 PM. The Dedication Ceremony will be followed by a celebration at THE BLACK BOX, which will include light refreshments and entertainment. All are welcome to attend.
We would also like to remind you of our upcoming Partners' Meeting on Wednesday, May 15 at 7:00 PM. This meeting will be held in the Franklin Public Library community room.
We hope to see you all at these upcoming events.
The Franklin Cultural District Committee
Franklin Cultural District: Dedication Celebration - May 10 |
Saturday, May 4, 2019
Charter School clarifications on Franklin FY 2020 budget impact
The Charter School provides some clarifications on the projected budget impact statements reported by the Town of Franklin and the Public Schools:
http://bfccps.org/clarification-on-the-impact-of-bfccps-on-the-franklin-public-school-systems-budget/?doing_wp_cron=1556970363.0868589878082275390625
The Town of Franklin has updated their memo that incorrectly reported the expansion would include grades 9-12. The updated memo can be found online
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/uploads/fy20_budget_forecast_and_beyond_0.pdf
Per the Charter School the enrollment increase projected for Franklin should be less than shown in the Dept of Local Service Cherry Sheet estimates but until the numbers flow through the State, the budget impact to Franklin is still a significant increase over prior years ('significant' is currently shown at $1M).
DLS Cherry Sheet estimates:
The 'cherry sheet' reflects the local aid coming to Franklin or assessed against Franklin. Chapter 70 is the school aid. There are also lines shown for the charter school ins and outs.
I have filtered on the DLS page to select Franklin and export to create the PDF shown here. You can view the info online
https://dlsgateway.dor.state.ma.us/reports/rdPage.aspx?rdReport=CherrySheets.CSbyProgMunis.MuniBudgEst
Bottom line: the school funding calculations provided by the State short change all Franklin students, period. There should not be a charter vs. public school debate. We should be united in getting a more realistic funding formula. Why? Whatever is allocated for the Franklin Public School students will flow to the charter school students, so if there is more for one there will be more for the other. If the public school budget is cut (as it will be this year), the Charter School student will ultimately see that (in some manner - I am not an expert on State funding flows, but from my experience that is what will likely happen).
"As you may have seen recently in the local print and in social media, BFCCPS has been listed as the main driver of the budget deficit for the Franklin Public School system. Many current and former parents and faculty have shown great support for BFCCPS on social media over the last few weeks.
Please know that several pieces of information that have been reported are inaccurate. For example, while various articles report 258 new students attending our school next year; only 95 students from Franklin have accepted offers of enrollment for the 2019-2020 school year. As we have 31 grade eight students who will be attending Franklin High School next year, the true impact is only a net of 64 new students attending BFCCPS from the town of Franklin next year. Additionally, articles have repeatedly indicated that our expansion includes a High School offering. We have no plans to expand to grades 9-12.
When we began our expansion process in 2012, we were intentional in designing our region to have a lessening impact on the town of Franklin. In fact, next year, even with expansion, we will enroll fewer children from the Town of Franklin than before we became a regional school in the 2015-2016 school year."Continue reading the full write up on the Charter School page
http://bfccps.org/clarification-on-the-impact-of-bfccps-on-the-franklin-public-school-systems-budget/?doing_wp_cron=1556970363.0868589878082275390625
The Town of Franklin has updated their memo that incorrectly reported the expansion would include grades 9-12. The updated memo can be found online
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/uploads/fy20_budget_forecast_and_beyond_0.pdf
Per the Charter School the enrollment increase projected for Franklin should be less than shown in the Dept of Local Service Cherry Sheet estimates but until the numbers flow through the State, the budget impact to Franklin is still a significant increase over prior years ('significant' is currently shown at $1M).
DLS Cherry Sheet estimates:
The 'cherry sheet' reflects the local aid coming to Franklin or assessed against Franklin. Chapter 70 is the school aid. There are also lines shown for the charter school ins and outs.
I have filtered on the DLS page to select Franklin and export to create the PDF shown here. You can view the info online
https://dlsgateway.dor.state.ma.us/reports/rdPage.aspx?rdReport=CherrySheets.CSbyProgMunis.MuniBudgEst
Bottom line: the school funding calculations provided by the State short change all Franklin students, period. There should not be a charter vs. public school debate. We should be united in getting a more realistic funding formula. Why? Whatever is allocated for the Franklin Public School students will flow to the charter school students, so if there is more for one there will be more for the other. If the public school budget is cut (as it will be this year), the Charter School student will ultimately see that (in some manner - I am not an expert on State funding flows, but from my experience that is what will likely happen).
Horace Mann statue in downtown Franklin, the father of public education |
Franklin ArtWeek Schedule for Saturday, May 4, 2019
Saturday, May 4
9:00 - 5:00: Post-It Note Collage at Franklin Public Library ~ In celebration of ArtWeek 2019, the Youth Services department will be building a Post-It Note Collage! But we need your help! Stop by anytime during the week to help add post-it notes to the wall. What will the final image be?? Only time will tell!!
10:00 - 12:00: Sidewalk Chalk! at the Franklin Town Common (FREE)
Join BFCCPS’s first chalk festival! Watch other artists create masterpieces with vividly colored pastels and join in on creating your own art while we transform the cement on the Franklin Commons into a bright and colorful chalk art display! Parking on Queen St.
11:00 - 11:45: Trowbridge Piano Performance at the Franklin Historical Museum (FREE) Local musician Dennis Ferguson will perform a selection of works by 20th century women composers on the Museum's antique Trowbridge Piano, with background and details on the composers and compositions.
12:00 - 4:00: Art of Game Design with Jason Davis at Pete's Nerd Emporium (FREE) Jason Davis, the Franklin-based game designer of Davis & Daughters Games, will be giving a talk on his creative process: what it’s like to design games with children and for children and all the difficulty and benefits therein. His talk will be followed by a demo of his game, Heroes & Treasure, a traditional fantasy-styled RPG meant to be played with children as young as 4.
12:00 - 1:30 and 2:00 - 3:30: Around the World in 8 Plays at THE BLACK BOX ($12/$15) Travel around the world and explore forgotten myths and unusual legends in eight fast-paced and hilarious tales! Guided by a band of roaming gypsies, the audience is transported from the ancient Far East, where a hero must kill a giant centipede to save a dragon king, to the Russian countryside, where a poor orphan must defeat three witches who stole his grandfather's eyes. Always quirky, and sometimes bizarre, these eight tales are filled with magic, mystery, and morals. Tickets are $12 student/senior and $15 adult. Tickets: bit.ly/8_plays
12:15 - 1:00: Horace Mann Birthday Celebration at the Franklin Historical Museum (FREE) Join us for a piece of cake and a little history to celebrate Horace Mann's 223rd birthday.
12:30 - 1:30: Orff Percussion Jam at Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School (FREE) The Orff Percussion Jam will allow people to use both pitched (xylophones, metallophones, glockenspiels, etc.) and non-pitched instruments (drums, tambourines, shakers, etc) in a unique, multi-layered ensemble that will explore familiar children's songs. For kids 5-12, although 13+ are welcome to join by helping out or playing on the larger instruments. Parking on Queen St.
1:00 - 3:00: “May the 4th be With You” Star Wars Party! at the Franklin Public Library (FREE) Come celebrate Star Wars Day with us! Put your Jedi skills to the test with out-of-this-world games and crafts! Then refuel with snacks and refreshments straight from the Cantina!
2:00 - 3:00: Drumming Around the World at Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School (FREE) Drumming Around the World will focus on exploring different cultures and their musical styles through the art of drumming. Participants will learn elementary to intermediate rhythms by ear, participate in drum circles, practice improvisation skills, and learn a little of the history of hand drumming. Parking on Queen St.
2:00 - 3:30: What Ever Happened to Sunday Dinner? at Franklin TV (FREE) Author Ed Iannuccilli draws on his Italian heritage in his book "What Ever Happened to Sunday Dinner?" which is the focus of his ArtWeek lecture. Dr. Ed will share how and why he writes, inspiring the audience to write their own stories of immigration and cultural history.
7:00 - 9:30: The Chestnut Street Revue at First Universalist Society of Franklin (FREE) Join us for an exciting evening of music, featuring a broad range of genres from good old rock and roll to classical guitar. Local bands Critical Mass and Victims of Gravity will get your toes tapping, and Heath Nisbett's classical guitar will elevate your mood! The Universal Singers will entertain you with some uplifting choral arrangements. Michele Kelly will engage us with her beautiful vocals, and Dan Feerick and Jeff Cerrier will perform guitar solos. It's sure to be a fun evening of great music. Gourmet desserts will be available at intermission.
7:00 - 12:00: Party for the Pantry at THE BLACK BOX ($25)
Join us for an evening showcasing four fabulous bands in support of the Franklin Food Pantry! Tickets: www.franklinfoodpantry.org
Download your copy of the full schedule for ArtWeek here
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0wjbnXDBhczODN4X2hTdVdobWpWWTlpR19WMFZHZE5JWHVz/view?usp=sharing
9:00 - 5:00: Post-It Note Collage at Franklin Public Library ~ In celebration of ArtWeek 2019, the Youth Services department will be building a Post-It Note Collage! But we need your help! Stop by anytime during the week to help add post-it notes to the wall. What will the final image be?? Only time will tell!!
10:00 - 12:00: Sidewalk Chalk! at the Franklin Town Common (FREE)
Join BFCCPS’s first chalk festival! Watch other artists create masterpieces with vividly colored pastels and join in on creating your own art while we transform the cement on the Franklin Commons into a bright and colorful chalk art display! Parking on Queen St.
11:00 - 11:45: Trowbridge Piano Performance at the Franklin Historical Museum (FREE) Local musician Dennis Ferguson will perform a selection of works by 20th century women composers on the Museum's antique Trowbridge Piano, with background and details on the composers and compositions.
12:00 - 4:00: Art of Game Design with Jason Davis at Pete's Nerd Emporium (FREE) Jason Davis, the Franklin-based game designer of Davis & Daughters Games, will be giving a talk on his creative process: what it’s like to design games with children and for children and all the difficulty and benefits therein. His talk will be followed by a demo of his game, Heroes & Treasure, a traditional fantasy-styled RPG meant to be played with children as young as 4.
12:00 - 1:30 and 2:00 - 3:30: Around the World in 8 Plays at THE BLACK BOX ($12/$15) Travel around the world and explore forgotten myths and unusual legends in eight fast-paced and hilarious tales! Guided by a band of roaming gypsies, the audience is transported from the ancient Far East, where a hero must kill a giant centipede to save a dragon king, to the Russian countryside, where a poor orphan must defeat three witches who stole his grandfather's eyes. Always quirky, and sometimes bizarre, these eight tales are filled with magic, mystery, and morals. Tickets are $12 student/senior and $15 adult. Tickets: bit.ly/8_plays
12:15 - 1:00: Horace Mann Birthday Celebration at the Franklin Historical Museum (FREE) Join us for a piece of cake and a little history to celebrate Horace Mann's 223rd birthday.
12:30 - 1:30: Orff Percussion Jam at Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School (FREE) The Orff Percussion Jam will allow people to use both pitched (xylophones, metallophones, glockenspiels, etc.) and non-pitched instruments (drums, tambourines, shakers, etc) in a unique, multi-layered ensemble that will explore familiar children's songs. For kids 5-12, although 13+ are welcome to join by helping out or playing on the larger instruments. Parking on Queen St.
1:00 - 3:00: “May the 4th be With You” Star Wars Party! at the Franklin Public Library (FREE) Come celebrate Star Wars Day with us! Put your Jedi skills to the test with out-of-this-world games and crafts! Then refuel with snacks and refreshments straight from the Cantina!
2:00 - 3:00: Drumming Around the World at Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School (FREE) Drumming Around the World will focus on exploring different cultures and their musical styles through the art of drumming. Participants will learn elementary to intermediate rhythms by ear, participate in drum circles, practice improvisation skills, and learn a little of the history of hand drumming. Parking on Queen St.
2:00 - 3:30: What Ever Happened to Sunday Dinner? at Franklin TV (FREE) Author Ed Iannuccilli draws on his Italian heritage in his book "What Ever Happened to Sunday Dinner?" which is the focus of his ArtWeek lecture. Dr. Ed will share how and why he writes, inspiring the audience to write their own stories of immigration and cultural history.
7:00 - 9:30: The Chestnut Street Revue at First Universalist Society of Franklin (FREE) Join us for an exciting evening of music, featuring a broad range of genres from good old rock and roll to classical guitar. Local bands Critical Mass and Victims of Gravity will get your toes tapping, and Heath Nisbett's classical guitar will elevate your mood! The Universal Singers will entertain you with some uplifting choral arrangements. Michele Kelly will engage us with her beautiful vocals, and Dan Feerick and Jeff Cerrier will perform guitar solos. It's sure to be a fun evening of great music. Gourmet desserts will be available at intermission.
7:00 - 12:00: Party for the Pantry at THE BLACK BOX ($25)
Join us for an evening showcasing four fabulous bands in support of the Franklin Food Pantry! Tickets: www.franklinfoodpantry.org
Download your copy of the full schedule for ArtWeek here
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0wjbnXDBhczODN4X2hTdVdobWpWWTlpR19WMFZHZE5JWHVz/view?usp=sharing
Franklin ArtWeek Schedule for Saturday, May 4, 2019 |
Franklin High School: Chromebook PSA 2019
When the new Franklin High School building opened, approx. 1600 Chromebooks entered the daily life of the students. At approx. $200 each, they are relatively cheap and overtime will provide a better return than standard textbooks.
As with any technical device, the technology is great when it works, and can be frustrating when it doesn't. Taking care of the device is critical to the performance. This Public Service Announcement is a cool reminder of the need for taking care as well as a good showcase for the talented students work in media creation.
There is an annual insurance policy that is well worth purchasing for only $25.
Enjoy! (only 2 and a half minutes)
Chromebook lifecycle:
Chromebooks are issued to the incoming Freshmen class and expected to be used for the four years. The seniors turn in their Chromebooks upon graduation and the units are evaluated for reuse.
Part of the capital needs for the school district have shifted from book and curriculum purchases to Chromebook replacements and software licenses. The Chromebooks and licenses are more easily kept up to date than hardcover materials.
Chromebooks have gradually expanded to the middle and elementary schools. The units used by those students stay within the buildings. High school students take theirs home to do homework and projects.
As with any technical device, the technology is great when it works, and can be frustrating when it doesn't. Taking care of the device is critical to the performance. This Public Service Announcement is a cool reminder of the need for taking care as well as a good showcase for the talented students work in media creation.
There is an annual insurance policy that is well worth purchasing for only $25.
Enjoy! (only 2 and a half minutes)
Chromebook lifecycle:
Chromebooks are issued to the incoming Freshmen class and expected to be used for the four years. The seniors turn in their Chromebooks upon graduation and the units are evaluated for reuse.
Part of the capital needs for the school district have shifted from book and curriculum purchases to Chromebook replacements and software licenses. The Chromebooks and licenses are more easily kept up to date than hardcover materials.
Chromebooks have gradually expanded to the middle and elementary schools. The units used by those students stay within the buildings. High school students take theirs home to do homework and projects.
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