In the News: 2020 Census takers being recruited

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

"Every 10 years, each resident in the United States is counted by the Census Bureau to determine how many seats each state has in the U.S. House of Representatives and how federal funds will be spent on local communities. Next week in Milford, the Census is seeking U.S. citizens to help count, offering a pay rate above Massachusetts’ minimum wage.

On Tuesday, the Bureau will recruit 2020 census-takers during a job fair at the Milford Town Library’s Quarry Room from 7-8:30 p.m. The minimum pay rate for the temporary position in Worcester County is $18 per hour, according to the Census, which is $6 higher than the state’s $12 minimum wage. Census takers also receive reimbursement for work-related mileage and expenses."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20191031/2020-census-takers-being-recruited-in-milford-next-week

For more info about jobs working on the Census in 2020
https://2020census.gov/en/jobs.html
 
 

For more info about jobs working on the Census in 2020

November 2019 Franklin Public Library News & Events for Adults

November 2019 Franklin Public Library 

News and Events for Adults

Proctoring Services
The Franklin Public Library will now be offering proctoring services to its patrons. Proctoring will be free of charge, and by appointment only. See Library Director Felicia Oti or Assistant Library Director Kim Shipala for more information.

Technology Assistance
Need help downloading ebooks to your Kindle? Trouble downloading the Libby or Minuteman apps? Curious about hoopla, Kanopy, or the many databases available to Franklin residents? Stop by or make an appointment during Tech Time now available on Thursdays 2:00-3:00 p.m. Can't make that time? Don't worry, technology assistance is always available at the Reference Desk. Please contact Assistant Library Director Kim Shipala or Reference Librarian Vicki Earls for more information.

New Pass Available
The Library has a new pass available for residents to enjoy! The Winter Skate at Patriot Place pass allows up to two adults and two children free admission to the outdoor professionally-maintained and easily-accessible ice skating rink. Winter Skate is available November through March.

November Hours
The Library will be closed Monday, November 11 for Veteran's Day, and Thursday, November 28 for Thanksgiving Day. The Library will be closing at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 27. The Library's regular hours are Monday through Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Sunday, 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Foreign Film Night, Tuesday, November 5, 6:30 p.m.
Breathless. French (1961)
Filmmaker Jean-Luc Godard burst onto the film scene in 1960 with this jazzy, free-form, and sexy homage to the American film genres that inspired him as a writer for Cahiers du cinema. With its lack of polish, surplus of attitude, anything-goes crime narrative, and effervescent young stars Jean-Paul Belmondo and Jean Seberg, Breathless helped launch the French New Wave and ensured that cinema would never be the same.

Jeff Belanger: Ghosts & Legends, Wednesday, November 6, 7:00 p.m.
For over 20 years, Jeff Belanger has been exploring the unexplained. He's one of New England's premiere storytellers who seeks out history, folklore, ghosts, monsters, and legends from all over the world and in your backyard. With all new stories for 2019, "Ghosts and Legends" presents highlights from his own adventures, his research from his books, podcast, and the television programs he's worked on, plus great stories of the unusual and the haunted. Belanger's program will delve into the reasons behind the legends.

ABOUT JEFF BELANGER
Jeff Belanger (www.jeffbelanger.com) is one of the most visible and prolific researchers of folklore and legends today. He's the award-winning, Emmy-nominated host, writer, and producer of the New England Legends series on PBS and Amazon Prime, and is the author of over a dozen books on the paranormal (published in six languages). He also hosts the New England Legends weekly podcast. 

Since 1997, the journalist has interviewed thousands of eyewitnesses to paranormal occurrences. He's the ultimate insider and knows how to connect with people from all walks of life when it comes to the unexplained.

His books include the best sellers: The World's Most Haunted Places, Weird Massachusetts, Our Haunted Lives, and Who's Haunting the White House? (for children). He's the founder of Ghostvillage.com, the Web's most popular paranormal destination according to Google, and a noted speaker and media personality. He's spoken at MENSA's national conference and has given a prestigious TEDx talk in New York City.

Belanger has written for newspapers like The Boston Globe and USA Today, and has served as the writer and researcher on numerous television series including Ghost Adventures, Paranormal Challenge, and Aftershocks on the Travel Channel, and Amish Haunting on Destination America. He's been a guest on hundreds of radio and television programs including: The History Channel, The Travel Channel, Biography Channel, Reelz, PBS, NECN, Living TV (UK), Sunrise 7 (Australia), Bell (Canada), The Maury Show, The CBS News Early Show, CBS Sunday Morning, FOX, NBC, ABC, and CBS affiliates, National Public Radio, The BBC, Darkness Radio, Australian Radio Network, and Coast to Coast AM.

Interview Preparation Part 3, Tuesday, November 12, 6:30 p.m.
Led by Employment Specialist Gary Gekow, this is an interactive and informal question and answer session where participants role-play typical interview questions and how best to answer them. The seminar also includes ways to avoid job candidates' most common interview mistakes. This program is 
free and open to the public.

Documentary Film Night, Tuesday, November 19, 6:30 p.m.
Higher Education: The New Global Economic War (2016)
There were 13 million university students in 1960. In 2015, their ranks had swollen to nearly 200 million. Universities are operating in the world's most competitive knowledge economy and they are waging a ferocious battle to attract the brightest minds from around the globe.
HIGHER EDUCATION delves into the key, decision-making seats where money and politics intermingle, and reveals the deep cultural divide between a lucrative Anglo-Saxon model of funding and the universal independent European model. We also document the emergence of a new class of over-educated and over-indebted workers.
Who really benefits from this heightened competition? Just how much debt should students take on? What is the real price for our societies? Is higher education set to be a big market?

Self Care Series, Wednesdays, November 13 & 20, 6:30 p.m.
Professional Life Coach Bethany Amatucci will lead a Self Care Series to help you on the journey to living your best life! These classes are free and open to the public. No registration is required.
Goal Setting Workshop, Wednesday, November 13, 6:30 p.m.
During this hour long workshop you will understand how to set goals and dream BIG! You will learn healthy habits for staying on track with your goals and ways to become relentlessly focused on achieving your dreams. 
Purpose-Driven Life Workshop, Wednesday, November 20, 6:30 p.m.
Here we will discover your unique superpower and work together to uncover your "why". This will get you prepared to finish the year strong and motivated!

Franklin Public Library Book Club, Tuesday, November 26, 7:00 p.m.
The book for discussion is There, There by Tommy Orange. A limited number of copies of the book will be available for checkout at the Circulation Desk. Refreshments will be served. For more information, please contact Assistant Library Director Kim Shipala at kshipala@minlib.net .

Al Testa Renaissance V Brass Quintet Holiday Concert
Sunday, December 1, 2:00 p.m.
Get in the holiday spirit with Al Testa's Renaissance V Brass Quintet! They will play a selection of holiday favorites for all to enjoy. This performance is free and open to the public.

Knitting Group
Fridays, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Love to knit or crochet? Join our group of local fiber artists who will be meeting in the Friends of the Franklin Community Room on Fridays 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Franklin Library Book Sale
Friday, December 13, 1:00-5:00 p.m.  Saturday, December 14, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 Noon.
All books are just one dollar!
Bag Sale - $5 A Bag—Saturday, December 14, from 1:00-4:00 p.m.
Come fill a brown bag with all the books you can!

November 2019 Franklin Public Library News & Events for Adults

What does the Town of Franklin ballot for Nov 5, 2019 look like?

Now that the candidate interviews are posted, we can shift our election preparations to other items in and around the election day itself. If you are not sure of being able to get to the high school, consider voting via absentee ballot.


1 - Absentee ballot

Absentee voting is now available. 

"In order to be eligible to vote by absentee ballot in Massachusetts, a voter must be prevented from voting at their polling place on Election Day, due to:

• Absence from the voter's city or town on Election Day; or
• Physical disability; or
• Religious belief."  (from the Secretary of the Commonwealth's page  https://www.sec.state.ma.us/ele/eleabsentee/absidx.htm)

For those who travel out of Franklin on election day for work (i.e. train to Boston, car to RI or NH), you can vote now or anytime before noon Nov 4 via absentee ballot.

You can visit the Town Clerk's office to vote (similar to the early election voting trialed in 2016).


2 - Town of Franklin specimen ballot - Nov 5, 2019


You can view the specimen ballot here
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iKavOeEpF0dPz3QafLyzGoCJUojSo38_/view?usp=sharing

or on the Town Clerk page
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/uploads/specimen_ballot.pdf



Find the election and candidate information gathered in one place on the Election Collection
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/07/franklin-election-collection-2019.html 

What does the Town of Franklin ballot for Nov 5, 2019 look like?

Sculpture Park - decorated for Halloween

Catching up to share all the photos I captured on the walk through the Sculpture Park Saturday afternoon after the Franklin Police Dept did their Halloween Party.




Or view the photos directly on Flickr
https://www.flickr.com/photos/steve_sherlock/albums/72157711578274067

Town Council - Recap - Oct 16, 2019

As this was the last meeting for the current Town Council for this term of office, the agenda was juggled around during the meeting to allow Councilor Padula to arrive and participate in a key part of the discussion. 

The key items were around the changes to the current FY 2020 budget. Since the initial approval in June, the State got around to passing their budget which finalized the State aid numbers and in most cases added more to the conservative approach taken.

The Town also got a better read on the New Growth number and decided to take the 'windfall' of approx $900K and put it aside to the Open Space account. This does two things. One increases the open space account approx. $2.1M. This will also allow for some flexibility with the $900K in the FY 2021 budget.

The first serious discussion arose around the additions to the School Budget. The Town Administrator, Finance Committee, and School Committee approved additions finally did pass the Town Council by an 8-0 vote (Padula not present at this time).

The second serious discussion occurred with respect to the proposed assistant Facilities Director. The motion to pass was amended to remove the $110K position, and put the $110K to roads. The motion passed to amend by a 5-4 vote (Yes = Kelly, Dellorco, Pellegri, Jones, McCarthy-Earls; No = Padula, Casey, Hamblen, Mercer).

The final motions to approved the adjusted budget both passed by 9-0 votes

Note: the order of the votes is better followed with my notes or the Franklin TV recording. The "Actions Taken" document records the actual votes correctly but they did not change the sequence of the resolutions as they changed during that night.

In the Town Administrator's Report, I had previously taken out the comments on the old turf stored at Beaver St and shared that audio excerpt.
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/10/town-administrators-statement-on-old.html

Town Council Actions Taken for October 16, 2019
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-council/files/town-council-actions-taken-october-16-2019 

Live reporting: Town Administrator's report to Closing
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/10/live-reporting-town-adminsitrators.html

Live reporting: Legislation for Action
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/10/live-reporting-legislation-for-action.html

Live reporting: Town Council October 16, 2019
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/10/live-reporting-town-council-october-16.html

Town Council - Recap - Oct 16, 2019

Town Council recap - Oct 2, 2019

catching up to this: (I missed attending the meeting)

The Town Council meeting held on Oct 2, 2019 had this as the published agenda document
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/tc_agenda_10-2-19_redacted.pdf

The actions taken document can be found here
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/uploads/town_council_actions_taken_for_october_2_2019.pdf

The video from Franklin TV can be played on demand
https://view.earthchannel.com/PlayerController.aspx?&PGD=franknma&eID=686

Town Council recap - Oct 2, 2019

In the News: Wenger's Farm closing; Twitter bans political ads; Rail Trail expands in Ashland

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

Wenger's Farm closing

"A family-owned farm and farmers market is closing after more than 26 years in business and is leasing out its properties – including the family house – while family members embark on a series of mission trips.

“I can’t say for sure whether or not it’s the end of an era at Wenger’s Farm or not,” said the Wengers’ Realtor, Brian Garvey of Keller Williams Realty/NH. The owner, Omar Wenger, purchased the property at 1048 South Main St. in 2011 and “ideally, he’d like it to be used as it is now.”

The farm will close on Saturday and has been offering closeout sales, according to a laminated sign posted outside the Wengers’ community country store. The family is leasing both its store and lower level space on-site, along with the family home next door at 1040 South Main St., according to listings published earlier this month on the New England Commercial Property Exchange (NECPE).

“God has been faithful in giving seed time and bountiful harvests,” reads the sign posted outside the door, with owners Omar and Barbara Wenger thanking their “faithful customers.” “Regretfully, this is our last season for operating Wenger’s Farm Store. We have consented to go to a mission in Africa beginning 2020.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20191030/wengers-farm-in-bellingham-closing-leasing-properties


Twitter bans political ads

"Twitter is banning all political advertising from its service, saying social media companies give advertisers an unfair advantage in proliferating highly targeted, misleading messages.

“While internet advertising is incredibly powerful and very effective for commercial advertisers, that power brings significant risks to politics, where it can be used to influence votes to affect the lives of millions,” Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey tweeted Wednesday in a series of tweets announcing the new policy.

Facebook has taken fire since it disclosed earlier in October that it will not fact-check ads by politicians or their campaigns, which could allow them to lie freely. CEO Mark Zuckerberg told Congress last week that politicians have the right to free speech on Facebook."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20191030/twitter-bans-all-political-advertisements

Rail Trail expands in Ashland

"Cyndi Sumner took a different route than usual to walk her chocolate Labradoodle on Monday afternoon.

While she usually goes to Ashland State Park, Sumner was intrigued by a new bridge spanning Mill Pond. With her home just a short walk away on Raymond Marchetti Street, she decided to explore the bridge instead of driving to the state park.

The only problem was that the Mill Pond entrance was blocked off for construction. Luckily, Sumner was able to find an alternative way there by walking through the Riverwalk Trail, a wooded pathway less than a mile long that runs alongside the Sudbury River and the north side of Mill Pond.

“I didn’t even know this path was here,” Sumner told the Daily News after trekking through the short trail."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20191030/work-advances-on-ashlands-riverwalk-trail

Fire Training to Include Rep Roy, Chief McLaughlin, Town Administrator Jamie Hellen

The Franklin Fire Department will hold a training event with Representative Jeffrey Roy (D-Franklin) at Station 2 (21 Birch Street) on Thursday afternoon, October 31. 

Representative Roy will take part in live fire training where he will be able to utilize Milford Fire Department's live bum building. This informative event will provide Representative Roy with a first-hand opportunity to learn more about the fire service and the austere and rigorous conditions Franklin firefighters encounter.

The purpose of this training is for Representative Roy to gain an understanding of the everyday life of professional, career firefighters, by utilizing a 'hands-on" approach. Franklin Fire Chief James McLaughlin and Franklin Town Administrator Jamie Hellen will accompany Representative Roy at this training.

"Live fire training will give me the ability to understand the difficulties and challenges that our firefighters face on a daily basis," said State Rep. Jeffrey Roy. "I look forward to this opportunity. We are lucky to have so many dedicated, professional, and brave firefighters that are ready, willing, and able to serve in our department."

October is National Fire Prevention Month, a time when we should all be aware of ways to help learn fire safety and prevention.

Fire Training to Include Rep Roy

Jack Lank Receives "Chamber Executive of the Year" Award

At their annual conference this week, the New England Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (NEACCE) named United Regional Chamber of Commerce (URCC) President/CEO Jack Lank "Chamber Executive of the Year" for 2019.

Jim Roche, President of Business and Industry Association of the New Hampshire Statewide Chamber of Commerce presented the award to Lank at the conference's annual dinner in Plymouth, Mass. Lank is a member of the Board of Directors and former President of NEACCE.

In his remarks, Roche noted that Lank has served at the helm of the URCC for 13 years, merging three chambers representing 16 communities in two different counties during his tenure. Roche said that merging two chambers is a daunting endeavor, but merging three chambers is more than formidable.

Roche continued, saying that after the merger Lank "implemented a comprehensive, coordinated effort to assist local business expansion. He created a Young Professional's Organization, a Women's Impact Network, an Ambassador Committee, and several over groups to enhance the value of membership in his chamber." He also works with other local chambers to facilitate multi-organization events and programs, realizing that when the entities work together there is a much better result and a bigger impact on the communities.

Roche quoted several chamber members in his speech. One member said, "Jack has been a big supporter of my non-profit organization. He was instrumental in helping us secure our largest single donation to date. It is a great comfort to know that if I need something, I have a reliable person who is well connected to a wide variety of professionals and who is always in my corner."

Roche concluded his presentation saying, "Jack is a rare breed in the chamber world. Sadly, there are not many like him. He is well connected to all of his communities, a very rare feat these days. He is educated about what is impacting business in his area and throughout the state and has his thumb on business legislation. But most of all, he is approachable, funny, and sincere, a rare hat trick of personalities you will not find everywhere. I wish there were more people like him in this world."

Before becoming president of the URCC, Lank was the Vice President of Alexander Mortgage Corporation for 10 years and Executive Director of Attleboro's Wednesday Night Market.

Lank is a member of the Board of Trustees for the US Chamber Foundation and Former Chairman of the Board of Regents for the Institute for Organization Management, a member of the Board of Directors and former President of NEACCE, member of the Board of Directors of the Tri-County Regional Vocational High School Education Foundation, an Incorporator for the Hockomock YMCA, treasurer of North Attleboro's Make a Splash Foundation, and a member of the Board of Directors of the Southeastern Massachusetts Visitor's Bureau.

The URCC is a private, not-for-profit business association that represents hundreds of businesses of all sizes and from virtually all industries in the communities of Attleboro, Bellingham, Blackstone, Foxborough, Franklin, Mansfield, Medfield, Medway, Millis, Norfolk, North Attleborough, Norton, Plainville, Rehoboth, Seekonk, and Wrentham.

Chartered in 1917, The URCC has evolved into the region's oldest and largest economic development and business advocacy organization. The chamber supports and promotes the local business community through leadership in public advocacy, education, networking, information, and community development.

NEACCE, headquartered in Concord New Hampshire, serves as the conduit for executives and staff throughout New England through a number of opportunities including conferences, social media, newsletter and meetings, all great opportunities to network. Chamber executives and staff often benefit from the exchange of ideas and information and NEACCE makes this happen, providing leadership in the world of professional chamber management. NEACCE's provides programs that enhance the personal growth and development of its members and their effectiveness as administrators. The organization maintains a close relationship with the United States Chamber of Commerce, the American Chamber of Commerce Executives, and other regional and state associations to provide maximum effectiveness in joint actions approved by the NEACCE Board of Directors. In addition, NEACCE facilitates opportunities to advance the concepts and practices of professional Chamber management through educational services and innovative programs.

Left to right: President Neponset River Regional Chamber of Commerce Tom O’Rourke, award winner URCC President/CEO Jack Lank; and President of the Ocean Community Chamber Lisa Konicki at the October NEACCE award dinner

Town Council - Recap - Sep 4, 2019

Catching up to this


Franklin TV video of the meeting available for replay on demand
https://view.earthchannel.com/PlayerController.aspx?&PGD=franknma&eID=682

The Actions Taken for this meeting
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-council/files/tc-actions-taken-9419


My notes reported live during the meeting

• Live reporting: Town Administrator's Report through Closing
• https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/09/live-reporting-town-administrators.html
• Live Reporting: Subcommittee reports through Legislation for Action
• https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/09/live-reporting-subcommittee-reports.html
• Live reporting: Appointments to Presentations
• https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/09/live-reporting-appointments-to.html
• Live Reporting: Town Council - Sep 4, 2019
• https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/09/live-reporting-town-council-sep-4-2019.html
• 
  

Franklin Candidate Interview: Denise Spencer

This interview with Denise Spencer, candidate for Franklin School Committee in 2019, was collaborated on via email. We reviewed the following questions, some of them were ‘crowd sourced.’ Some of you may remember the call for input solicited in August 2019 for this election. Thank you for your contributions.

Hopefully, the information provided here, and in the other interviews, will enable the Franklin voters to make a good choice among the candidates for each position.

For the following FM presents the question. DS represents Denise’s response.

FM = There are and have been many opportunities to volunteer with community groups in Franklin. Have you taken advantage of any of these? Which ones, and why did you choose that/those?

DS = Since moving to Franklin in 2017, I have been very active within the school system by serving on the PCC and volunteering my time for school events and fundraisers. I recently attended the Franklin Civics Forum “How Your Town Government Works” and learned about all the other wonderful opportunities the town has to offer and I look forward to giving back in as many ways possible.

FM = Where do you get your news about Franklin?

DS = Franklin Matters of course! I also follow many town-centric Facebook pages such as Town of Franklin MA and Franklin Public School District MA. Also, I recently signed up to receive newsletters from the Town – another useful tidbit I picked up at the Civics Forum – and I also follow you, Steve, on Twitter and scroll through your posts and retweets.

FM = The possibility of a change in school start times was a recent controversial topic taken up by the School Committee. Where do you stand on the issue of school start times in Franklin and what actions do you plan to take around this issue during the next term of the School Committee?

DS = At the last School Committee meeting, it was decided that this issue be put on hold as there are other major issues requiring immediate attention (such as the budget and the school closing study). The current School Committee has done an excellent job on researching the science behind delaying school start times in adolescents. Schools in surrounding towns that have a later high school start time still have the younger children getting out of school after the older children. 

It is difficult to squeeze academic schedules, sports events and extra-curricular activities into available daytime hours if schools started later. There are clearly some benefits to a later starting time. There are also many challenges that families, teens, and school districts would face when deciding to pursue this idea. Much more research is needed in terms of looking at the impact of delaying school start times and how this will affect childcare options for working families and after school activities.

FM = While the current School Committee has attempted to reach the community through various forms of communication including coffee chats, email newsletters, attending events such as the farmers market, etc., they have been generally unsuccessful at increasing the engagement with important issues related to the schools. What actions will you take to increase citizen engagement with the School Committee?

DS = The current School Committee members have done a great job improving communication with the community. (Side note: Did you know they have a newsletter? You can sign up to be on their distribution list.) A lot of people love the idea of being connected virtually – we should look at more of a social media presence. Some families may be able to attend the coffee chats; however, weekends are usually very busy, parents and children have very hectic schedules. We need to cater to everyone on both ends of the spectrum.

FM = The Town Administrator has suggested that the School Committee investigate the possibility of closing Davis Thayer Elementary as a possible cost-saving mechanism for the town in these tight economic times. Where do you stand on this issue and what actions will you take to support your stance?

DS = This is a good question - I support a comprehensive study of our current and future enrollment needs for facilities prior to any discussion about school closure. It is imperative to gather and review all information before making any kind of decision. This means future enrollment projections, cost savings, the impact it would have on classroom sizes at other schools, redistricting of the town, and the reallocation of assets, teachers and staff. If elected, I promise to evaluate all pertinent information and reach a consensus of what would be best for the entire community.

FM = Why should I vote for you?

DS = In addition to my professional background, which includes 12 years working in the financial industry, I am an active parent and member of the community. I want to be a part of decisions that are made for our school system’s future. Young families need a strong voice in the decision making that will affect our town for generations to come. I want to apply my passion to advocate for all of Franklin’s students, families and educators. I would like the opportunity to serve and be a part of the continuous success of our school system.

Find the election and candidate information gathered in one place on the Election Collection
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/07/franklin-election-collection-2019.html

Franklin Candidate Interview: Denise Spencer

Franklin Candidate Interview: Joanna Lussier

This interview with Joanna Lussier, candidate for Franklin School Committee in 2019, was collaborated on via email. We reviewed the following questions, some of them were ‘crowd sourced.’ Some of you may remember the call for input solicited in August 2019 for this election. Thank you for your contributions.

Hopefully, the information provided here, and in the other interviews, will enable the Franklin voters to make a good choice among the candidates for each position.

For the following FM presents the question. JL represents Joanna's response.

FM = There are and have been many opportunities to volunteer with community groups in Franklin. Have you taken advantage of any of these? Which ones, and why did you choose that/those?

JL = Volunteering is something I want my kids to want to do. Most of my volunteer work gear towards school activities – field trips, field days, classroom support. I enjoy volunteering as a family. Most of the volunteer opportunities we sign up for allow kids at a young age – Cradle to Crayons, Christmas in the City. 

Within the Town of Franklin, we have volunteered at the Recreation Department’s Earth Day clean up. It is one of the few volunteer opportunities available to my young kids. My oldest, James, has always had a passion for recycling and our environment. It was a great opportunity to align his passion with a volunteer opportunity. The volunteers assigned us to the Helen Keller School. We had three bags of trash just walking around the school property, even the playground had sport drink bottles. It was a great teaching moment for my kids to learn to be respectful of our planet and school property. 

In addition, I volunteered to be the Den Leader for James’ Tiger Den. My husband Mark grew up doing cub scouts and boy scouts. It was something James was interested in. As a pack, for Earth Day, we cleaned up Dacey’s Field. It was a great bonding experience for the boys.

FM = Where do you get your news about Franklin?

JL = Primarily, I get my news about Franklin on social media – Franklin Matters, Milford Daily News Online, Wicked Local, and various Facebook groups. Recently, I signed up to receive all the postings on the Town’s website. This has been helpful to see things posted in real time. Lastly, I also talk to local friends. We all focus on different topics of interest, so it is nice to be able to hear what other people know.

FM =  The possibility of a change in school start times was a recent controversial topic taken up by the School Committee. Where do you stand on the issue of school start times in Franklin and what actions do you plan to take around this issue during the next term of the School Committee?

JL = If you ask me if I supported the proposed time as presented, I say no. However, I understand the research the School Start Time Advisory Board presented. I do support further research into the topic. We need to more awareness and engage key stakeholders – parents, students, teachers, surrounding towns, local businesses. There were many questions and concerns that were brought up. Some were addressed, but not all. I think the next term of the School Committee needs to move the project to Phase 2 – community engagement and outreach. I believe the community knows it’s a potential change in the near future and will be willing to be part of the process

FM = While the current School Committee has attempted to reach the community through various forms of communication including coffee chats, email newsletters, attending events such as the farmers market, etc., they have been generally unsuccessful at increasing the engagement with important issues related to the schools. What actions will you take to increase citizen engagement with the School Committee?

JL =  I will admit I never went to the coffee chats. I did enjoy the email newsletters. I understand the newsletter was probably designed to be brief updates with links back to the Town’s website. Perhaps it can be revised to include an executive summary/update on key topics. When reviewing some of the past newsletters, I did not get a sense of urgency on budget issues and school start times. Maybe in the newsletter we can set timelines for key items. 

For instance, if the School Committee is to vet out the school start times and Davis Thayer closing, they can estimate the school year it’ll take into effect (2023-2024). This way it is on the parents’ radar, and they are further motivated to understand what the School Committee is doing.

• Social media – The School Committee can have a greater presence on social media. Links to the newsletter and regular updates can keep the community engaged.
• Technology – I understand the busy life of parents and adulthood. Perhaps we can steam the meetings via WebEx (or something similar). Having virtual meet and greets.
• Sporting Events – If the community is open to it, I am always available to engage parents at sporting events. I understand it’s a fine balance between paying attention to your kid playing and having an adult conversation about various topics.
• Meet and Greets – This is always a great option. The timing never worked for me to meet the SC. I think sending a Survey Monkey out to the community to learn how they want us to engage them is a great starting point. 

FM = The Town Administrator has suggested that the School Committee investigate the possibility of closing Davis Thayer Elementary as a possible cost-saving mechanism for the town in these tight economic times. Where do you stand on this issue and what actions will you take to support your stance?

JL = If we have to make a decision today, I do not support it. I fully support vetting the idea and understand the implications – emotional and financial. There are many factors, decisions, and questions that need to be answered. We need to thoroughly research the different possibilities – renovating, building new, relocating, or closing. Recently, the Town Council approved money to go towards consulting fees. We should leverage the previous study and community engagement with the new study that will be happening. 

As a citizen, I have questions I want answered before a decision is made: Currently, enrollment is low. What about the current, potential, and future development. If we closed DT, how would the increase in population impact the other schools who will absorb the students? How will redistricting impact the students emotionally? How much money are we really saving by closing the school? I want a real number. If elected, I will ensure we engage the community throughout the process with regular updates.

FM = Why should I vote for you?

JL =  I am working mom looking to preserve and improve our schools for our students and community. With two young children in the school system, I have a vested interest in the quality of the school system for our current and future students. I want to work collaboratively with the key stakeholders to come up with solutions with the difficult decisions that are coming up. I believe my professional background will bring a different type of skillset to help the school committee come up with some long term plans.

Find the election and candidate information gathered in one place on the Election Collection
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/07/franklin-election-collection-2019.html 

FHS volleyball as #6 seed plays Sat at 2:00 PM

HockomockSports.com has posted the Hockomock volleyball playoff seeds and matchups for teams in the MIAA playoffs.

Franklin's first game is shown here, the full D1 South bracket is shown below

• D1 Central/West

#6 Franklin (14-3) will host #11 Doherty (12-8) on Saturday, 11/2 at 2:00.


For the Hockomock listing
https://hockomocksports.com/hockomock-volleyball-playoff-seeds-matchups-2019/

For the MIAA D1 Central-West bracket
http://miaa.statebrackets.com/tmenu.cfm?tid=5381

FHS volleyball as #6 seed plays Sat at 2:00 PM

Don’s Shirts Day - Nov 3

On Sunday, November 3, Franklin Federated Church will celebrate the many talents of long-time Franklin resident and FFC member, Don Goddard. Don has sewn over 150, one-of-a-kind themed shirts depicting holidays, hobbies and superheros, to name a few. Also exhibited will be a sampling of his fine carpentry skills. 

The public is welcome to attend morning worship and communion from 10 AM - 11 AM during which time the shirts will be displayed and some worn by members. Fellowship and refreshments follow the service. FFC will continue to welcome the public until 1 PM. 

Franklin Federated Church, located at 171 Main Street, is a Welcoming and Affirming Church, members of both the Association of Welcoming and Affirming Baptists and the United Church of Christ Coalition for LGBT Concerns. “No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.”

Don’s Shirts Day - Nov 3

For more about Franklin Federated Church, visit them on the web http://franklinfederated.org/

In the News: Get to know the Town Council candidates

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

"There is no dearth of candidates for Town Council in the upcoming biennial town election, with 11 throwing their hats into the ring for one of nine, two-year terms on the top governing board. Among them are seven incumbents.

On the town’s Nov. 5 ballot are incumbents Robert Dellorco, Melanie Hamblen, Glenn Jones, Matthew Kelly, Eamon McCarthy Earls, Thomas Mercer and Deborah Pellegri, in addition to Andrew Bissanti, Brian Chandler, Theodore Cormier-Leger and Mickey Whitmore.

Polling will take place 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. next Tuesday at Franklin High School, 218 Oak St."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20191029/franklin-election-meet-candidates-for-town-council

Find the election and candidate information gathered in one place on the Election Collection.
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/07/franklin-election-collection-2019.html

 

In the News: Get to know the Town Council candidates

Census Bureau News Profile America Facts for Features: Halloween - 2019

Halloween: Oct. 31, 2019 PROFILE AMERICA FACTS FOR FEATURES: CB19-FF.08 Dating back 2,000 years to the Celtic festival of Samhain, Halloween is an ancient tradition associated with images of witches, ghosts and vampires. Today, Halloween has evolved into a celebration characterized by child-friendly activities like trick-or-treating, carving pumpkins into jack-o'-lanterns, and dressing in costumes. The following facts are made possible by the invaluable responses to the U.S. Census Bureau's surveys. We appreciate the public's cooperation as we continuously measure America's people, places and economy.  Trick or Treat! 41.1 million The estimated number of potential trick-or-treaters in 2018 — children ages 5 to 14. Source: 2018 Population Estimates, Table PEPASR6H 122.4 million The number of potential stops for trick-or-treaters to occupied housing units for the 2nd quarter of 2019. Source: Housing Vacancies and Homeownership, Table 8 59.1 million The number of housing units where trick-or-treaters had to climb steps in order to fill their bags full of candy in 2017. Source: 2017 American Housing Survey 16.4% The percentage of U.S. households who think their neighborhood has a lot of petty crime. Source: 2017 American Housing Survey Hauntingly Delicious Economic Statistics 1,342 The number U.S. manufacturing establishments that produced chocolate and cocoa products in 2016. Sources: 2016 County Business Patterns, NAICS 311351, 311352 3,430 The number of U.S. confectionary and nut stores that sold candy and other confectionary products in 2016. Source: 2016 County Business Patterns, NAICS 445292 991 The number of formal wear and costume rental establishments in the United States in 2016. Source: 2016 County Business Patterns, NAICS 532220 Spooky Places Tombstone, Ariz. (estimated population 1,300) Source: 2018 Population Estimates Sleepy Hollow, N.Y. (estimated population 10,057) Source: 2018 Population Estimates Kill Devil Hills, N.C. (estimated population 7,202) Source: 2018 Population Estimates Yellville, Ark. (estimated population 1,170) Source: 2018 Population Estimates Transylvania County, N.C. (estimated population 34,215) Source: 20187 Population Estimates Slaughter Beach, Del. (estimated population 232) Source: 2018 Population Estimates Casper, Wyo. (estimated population 57,461) Source: 2018 Population Estimates Scarville, Iowa (estimated population 70) Source: 2018 Population Estimates

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This is an official email from the U.S. Census Bureau. If you have any questions or comments, please contact us (http://www.census.gov/about/contact-us.html).