Wednesday, November 20, 2019

Decorate Downtown for the Holidays with the Franklin Downtown Partnership and the Garden Club - Nov 24

The Franklin Downtown Partnership and the Franklin Garden Club are joining forces to decorate the downtown on Sunday, Nov. 24. Volunteers are needed to help install wreaths, bows and greenery.

Interested volunteers will meet Beautification Chairperson Eileen Mason at 9 a.m. on Nov. 24 at the downtown bridges. Community service hours are available for students. Groups and teams are encouraged to participate. Help is also needed on Saturday, Nov. 23 at noon at Hillside Nurseries to sort greens.

“We enjoy making the downtown Franklin festive during the holidays every year,” Mason said. “We’re a group of volunteers and we’re only able to take on these projects with a lot of help from the community. We are very appreciative of all the volunteer help and Hillside Nurseries for sourcing the greens, wreaths and decorations. Thank you to the Franklin DPW for its support as well. We hope everyone has a fun and safe holiday season!”

Anyone interested in volunteering or donating to this event can email emason4234@gmail.com.

The Franklin Downtown Partnership is a non-profit, 501©3 organization comprised of more than 290 businesses that supports downtown revitalization and streetscape efforts, and organizes events such as the Strawberry Stroll and the Harvest Festival. For more information please visit www.franklindowntownpartnership.org.


Decorate Downtown for the Holidays with the Franklin Downtown Partnership and the Garden Club - Nov 24
Decorate Downtown for the Holidays with the Franklin Downtown Partnership and the Garden Club - Nov 24

Franklin High School Winter Concerts - Dec 4, Dec 10

Franklin High School is pleased to invite you to celebrate over 200 student musicians as they perform their annual Winter Concert. This year, we will be presenting our concert over two nights. 

On Wednesday, December 4, the String Orchestra and Symphony Orchestra will perform Fanfare for the Common Man by Copland and Finlandia by Sibelius. The Combined Chorus, Chamber Chorus, and Treble Chorus, with pianist Cate Gallagher, will present works by local RI composer, Michael C. Kregler (“Babylon’s Fallin’” and “I carry your heart with me”), “Famine Song” by VIDA, “Duet of the Flowers” from the opera Lakmé, “Pure Imagination” from the classic Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory , and more!

On Tuesday, Dec. 10 the FHS Concert Band and Wind Ensemble will present a concert featuring the music of Robert W. Smith, including “The Divine Comedy - The Inferno, Purgatorio, The Ascension, Paradiso” and “Inchon & Encanto” plus Andrew Boysen Jr's “By My Side”. Together, the Wind Ensemble and the Concert Band will close the concert with two selections including “Sleigh Ride” by Leroy Anderson.

NEW THIS YEAR! Through the generosity of the Franklin Cultural Council, Regency Transportation and the support through the Franklin Music Boosters, we are thrilled to perform for the first time in our new formal concert attire. Thank you and see you there!

Both concerts will take place at 7:00 PM in the Franklin High School auditorium. A $5 donation is requested at the door.

 
Franklin High School Winter Concerts - Dec 4, Dec 10
Franklin High School Winter Concerts - Dec 4, Dec 10

Katie Holbrook = new Softball Coach at FHS

via HockomockSports.com we hear that Franklin has announced Katie Holbrook as the new Softball Coach at FHS.
Franklin High athletic director Tom Angelo announced last week that Katie Holbrook had been hired to fill the softball coaching vacancy created by Kate Fallon’s move to rival King Philip. Holbrook is the owner of Brand New Ballgame, a baseball and softball training facility in Wrentham, and has coached club and showcase softball teams for more than a decade.

Holbrook was familiar with the Franklin program, community, and players from her role at Brand New Ballgame, and was excited about making the Panthers her first high school coaching role.

“Between them coming in for team practices or working in private practice or clinics with some of the kids, I’ve gotten a chance to really know them over the last six or seven years,” Holbrook said in a phone call this week. “I had a tie to Franklin and when Kate moved over I thought it’s a good, strong program, there’s a desire for strong leadership and I have a good tie to the community. It was the right place.”

She also noted that the familiarity with the players could make the transition easier. She said, “They know who I am at least by reputation, so I think that’s helpful. They know I care about Franklin, that I know about softball, and that I do this day-in, day-out. So, I think the buy-in period may be a little shorter for me than maybe someone else who was new to things.”
Continue reading the article online
https://hockomocksports.com/franklin-announces-katie-holbrook-as-new-softball-coach/

Katie Holbrook = new Softball Coach at FHS
Katie Holbrook = new Softball Coach at FHS

FHS robotics team takes 2nd Place at WPI #SavageSoccer

via Twitter we share some success for the FHS robotics club from the weekend:




What is savage soccer?
"Savage Soccer began in 1995 and has continued since as an annual event hosted at WPI. Initially created as part of a university project (IQP), it is now coordinated each year by WPI students in their free time.

Savage Soccer is designed to help students learn about basic robotics principles and teamwork. The original focus was a way to get students 'psyched up' for the FIRST Robotics Competition. From its inception through the 2001 game, it challenged students to modify a radio controlled car with authorized parts that could best perform certain tasks like moving ping pong balls into goals while avoiding obstacles and other hazards. In 2002, the kits became more advanced as we started using the Robovation/Vex kits to make for a better competition and a more realistic version of FIRST. Each year the game is modified to present new goals and challenges for teams to test their creative abilities."
Continue reading about Savage Soccer at WPI  https://users.wpi.edu/~savage/About/

2nd place team (Twitter photo via @MsTaranto)
2nd place team (Twitter photo via @MsTaranto)
 

Franklin Economic Development Survey - your chance to provide input

The Town of Franklin, in conjunction with the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) are conducting a community survey regarding economic development in our town. 

Please click on this link to access the survey form:
https://forms.gle/6SJpXeWPvg2H37A96 

This survey will be available until December 13

There are hard copies available in the Town Administrator's office if needed. Thank you in advance for your input, ideas and feedback!

Franklin Economic Development Survey - Provide your input!
Franklin Economic Development Survey - Provide your input!

In the News: Medway votes to approve bag ban; new exit numbers coming to i495/MassPike

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

"Medway voted to ban carry-out plastic bags at its Fall Town Meeting Tuesday night in an effort to reduce litter and promote environmental sustainability. 
By a show of hands, Article 5 was approved by a little over half of residents present, amending the town’s general bylaws by adding a new article called “Article XXXII Plastic Bag Reduction.” The ban targets plastic check-out bags sold or provided to customers at any town establishment, but the following are still acceptable:

  • Thin plastic bags used to protect delivered newspapers
  • Laundry or dry-cleaning bags
  • Thin film bags, typically without handles, used to contain produce, meat or fish
  • Bags sold in packages containing multiple bags intended to be used for home food storage, garbage, waste, pet waste or yard waste
  • Product bags (bag integrated into packaging of a product)
  • Town Pay-As-You-Throw trash bags"
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20191119/medway-bans-plastic-check-out-bags


"Exit numbers on Massachusetts highways will be changing over the next two years, according to the Massachusetts Department of Transportation. 
The state currently utilizes a sequential exit numbering method and will change to a mileage-based exit system in order to comply with a federal mandate, which was laid out in 2009. 
Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Delaware are the only three states that do not comply with the federal mandate at this time."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20191119/mass-pike-and-495-are-among-massachusetts-highways-that-are-getting-new-exit-numbers

"Our mission is to connect, protect and celebrate our local communities”

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

"New Media Investment Group and Gannett finalized their merger Tuesday, putting top executives in position to move ahead with plans they believe will transform the new company’s local and national news brands, including USA TODAY, into a reinvented digital media powerhouse. 
The merger creates the largest U.S. media company by print circulation and one that will vie for the nation’s biggest online news and information audience. 
The new company’s CEOs – Mike Reed, who will lead the overall public entity under the name Gannett Co., and Paul Bascobert, who will lead an operating company called Gannett Media Corp. – told USA TODAY in a joint interview that they have a compelling opportunity to reinvent the business and expand digital revenue. Both said the company will continue to focus on its journalistic mission. 
“Our mission is to connect, protect and celebrate our local communities,” Bascobert said. “Great journalism really is the core of that mission. The question really becomes, what’s the sustainable and exciting business model that powers that mission?”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/zz/news/20191119/ceos-of-new-gannett-pivot-needed-for-digital-transformation-as-merger-completes


Franklin dog park looking for volunteers Saturday morning, Nov 23

Hello dog lovers.
We need volunteers on November 23, Saturday at 9 AM to spreed wood chips. We need extra wheelbarrows, shovels and rakes.
Refreshments will be there for the volunteers.

Thank you,

Furry Friends of The Franklin Dog Park volunteer committee 

Franklin dog park looking for volunteers Saturday morning, Nov 23
Franklin dog park looking for volunteers Saturday morning, Nov 23
 

Vacancy - Franklin Planning Board, Associate Member

Vacancy - Franklin Planning Board, Associate Member

"The Town of Franklin is seeking to fill a vacant Associate Planning Board member position.

The Planning Board, established under Massachusetts General Laws (MGL) Chapter 41, Section 81A, is an elected board comprised of five members, each with a four year term, and one Associate Member. The Associate Member participates in all Planning Board hearings, but only votes on Special Permits if one of the members is unable to act.

Franklin Planning Board's primary responsibilities are to administer the Subdivision Control Law pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 41 and to issue certain special permits and site plan approval under the Town of Franklin Zoning By-Laws in order to ensure the public safety, interest and welfare of the residents of the Town.

For more information on the Planning Board please visit their page:   www.franklinma.gov/planning-board.

Please consider giving your time, expertise and perspective on behalf of your community. To apply please visit the Town's website and fill out the online volunteer form at:   http://franklinmaboards.vt-s.net/newcaf.php."


More about what the Planning Board does can be found in the Annual Report
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/08/franklin-election-2019-what-does.html

Vacancy - Franklin Planning Board, Associate Member
Vacancy - Franklin Planning Board, Associate Member

Tuesday, November 19, 2019

Franklin Public Schools: Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) “Focus of the Month”

"Dear Franklin Families!

Franklin Public Schools (FPS) remains committed to supporting student development in the five Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) competency areas: Self-Awareness, Self-Management, Social Awareness, Relationship Skills, and Responsible Decision-Making.

To accomplish this, we are excited to roll out the Franklin Public Schools (FPS) SEL "Focus of the Month". Our goal is to provide teachers and families with strategies that support students' social and emotional learning skills development. 

November and December is Self-Awareness month, and each school is participating in this initiative. We encourage families to participate as well!

Are you ready to begin? If so, take the "Try 2" Challenge, which can be found on our website. You may notice that you already use some of the easy-to-implement strategies at home! If you have a strategy that works for you or general feedback, you can share it by using the Focus of the Month Feedback Form.

The SEL website will continue to develop as we progress through each month. Also, please be on the lookout for SEL news and information in your school newsletter!"

Shared via 
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/franklinmaps/files/uploads/fps_sel_focus_of_the_month-nov_dec_2019_1.pdf

New SEL web page    https://sites.google.com/franklinps.net/sel/home

More about CASEL at  https://casel.org/

Franklin Public Schools: Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) “Focus of the Month”
Franklin Public Schools: Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) “Focus of the Month”

"The Lived Theology of Dorothy Day" - Dec 7

The St. Mary Women's Faith Formation Group invites all women to attend a presentation on "The Lived Theology of Dorothy Day." The presentation will be December 7 from 9:30 - 10:30 AM in the St. Mary's Parish Hall (One Church Square, Franklin). 

The talk will be given by Fr. Vincent Daily, who comes to us from St. John XXIII Seminary, and is an expert on Dorothy Day. Come join us for a unique presentation and learn about a woman who was very influential in the modern church. The talk is certain to be thought provoking and informative.

Download your copy of the flyer:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0wjbnXDBhczV1JyRVhmOUVwZHc1QTdOUTRjdl9nXzgzWmFz/view?usp=sharing

"The Lived Theology of Dorothy Day" - Dec 7
"The Lived Theology of Dorothy Day" - Dec 7

Save The Dates - Kindergarten Registration & Leaping into Kindergarten Assembly

Save The Dates - Kindergarten Registration and Leaping into Kindergarten Assembly

** Kindergarten Registration Class of 2033
  • February 11, 2020 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM 
  • February 12, 2020 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM 
Where: Municipal Building 3rd Floor Training Room


** Leaping into Kindergarten Assembly
  • March 17, 2020 7 – 8:00 PM 
Where: Horace Mann Middle School Auditorium


Download your copy of the flyer:
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/franklinmaps/files/uploads/save_the_dates_2020_1.pdf

Save The Dates - Kindergarten Registration & Leaping into Kindergarten Assembly
Save The Dates - Kindergarten Registration & Leaping into Kindergarten Assembly
 

Christmas Fair - December 7

Christmas Fair • December 7, 2019 • 9 AM to 2 PM
St. JOHN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH, 237 Pleasant Street, Franklin

• Silent Auction • Raffle items • Gift Basket themes: sports; spa; food and wine; games and toys; pet toys • Gift cards for local restaurants and stores • Hand-made Christmas greenery • Hand-made scarves, mittens, hats • Cookie Walk features fudge, cookies and baked treats • Activities for the kids • Food and Drinks • Pictures with Santa Claus!

Call 508-528-2387
Like us Facebook: St John’s Episcopal Church
View www.stjohnsfranklinma.org

Christmas Fair - December 7
Christmas Fair - December 7

FHS Cheerleaders take 2nd in Regional Meet

Via Twitter: Congrats to the FHS Cheerleaders for their 2nd place finish at Regionals!

FHS Cheerleaders take 2nd in Regional Meet
FHS Cheerleaders take 1st in State and 2nd in Regional Meets

updated with corrected info: "They placed 2nd in the Division 1 South competition Sunday and will compete in States Sunday November 24th at Worcester State College. Your article incorrectly says they won States. (They are defending Fall Div 1 champs) thank you!"

In the News: legislation on plastic bag ban and distracted driving maybe on Governor's desk this week

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

"The Massachusetts Senate is now scheduled to vote on not one, but two consumer product bans on Wednesday in its final formal session of the year.

The chamber teed up legislation Monday that would forbid retail businesses from providing customers with single-use plastic bags, placing it on an agenda that already includes a House-approved bill banning flavored tobacco products and imposing a 75 percent tax on e-cigarettes.

Under the bill (S 459), stores in most cases could only offer recyclable paper bags or reusable bags for a fee of at least 10 cents at the point of sale. Retail establishments would be required to remit 5 cents for each paper bag sold to the state, which would in turn be directed to communities to fund bag ban enforcement, recycling promotion, waste reduction and other local environmental efforts."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20191118/senate-vote-could-take-single-use-plastic-bag-ban-closer-to-reality


"Nine years after the state implemented a difficult-to-enforce ban on texting while driving, five months after legislative negotiators began the latest attempt to take phones out of drivers’ hands, and three and a half months after their original agreement collapsed, lawmakers Monday queued up a compromise bill that could reach the governor’s desk as soon as this week.

The legislation, filed with support from all six members of a conference committee tasked with resolving differences between the original House and Senate versions, would forbid the use of all handheld electronic devices behind the wheel, except for those in hands-free mode. Drivers could view electronic maps on a device mounted to the windshield, dashboard or center console, but they could not use their hands to interact with any electronic beyond a single touch or tap to active hands-free mode.

Motorists who violate the new regulation would face fines between $100 and $500, and third and subsequent offenses would be surchargeable for insurance purposes."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20191118/drivers-will-only-be-allow-hands-free-use-of-all-electronic-devices-if-bill-passes

Monday, November 18, 2019

How Christmas changed from a rowdy celebration to a family-centered event - Dec 8

Join Ken Turino of Historic New England for a delightful exploration of Christmas traditions from the 1600s through 1900, on Sunday, December 8. This illustrated lecture traces the development of the celebration of Christmas, from when it was outlawed in 17-century New England through the beginning of the 20th century, when all the trappings of a traditional Christmas were in place. 

Kenneth C. Turino, manager of community engagement and exhibitions at Historic New England, tells the story of how Christmas changed from a rowdy celebration to a family-centered event. 

Learn how Christmas trees became popular, halls were decked, and Santa Claus came to town. Do you send Christmas cards each year? Decorate your house inside and out? Join us and learn about the history of your favorite traditions. 

The museum opens at 1:00 PM and the presentation will begin at 1:10 PM. Please bring a donation for the Franklin Food Pantry

Our Second Sunday Speaker Series is sponsored by the Friends of the Franklin Historical Museum.

Museum winter hours are Saturday mornings 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and Sunday afternoons 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

Visit the Franklin Historical Museum online at https://www.franklinmuseum1778.com/


Left: Christmas Card sent home to Franklin from Gerald Parmenter During WWII
Left: Christmas Card sent home to Franklin from Gerald Parmenter During WWII


For more about Historic New England, visit them on the web at https://www.historicnewengland.org/

For more about Ken Turino
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/reimagining-historic-house-museums-due-october-2019-ken-turino/
 

Fall cleanup - yard waste picked up on your normal trash day

via the Franklin DPW Facebook page, we find that the fall cleanup where your yard waste is picked up on your normal trash day, is this week, beginning Monday, November 18.

For more info about solid waste and recycling
https://www.franklinma.gov/recycling-solid-waste

For the online link to the solid waste flyer
https://www.franklinma.gov/recycling-solid-waste/files/20192020-solid-waste-mailer-and-calendar

For the Franklin DPW on Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/FranklinDPW/

Fall cleanup - yard waste picked up on your normal trash day
Fall cleanup - yard waste picked up on your normal trash day

Pantherbook Series: Environmental Investigations

via Pantherbook we find:
"In recent years, environmental issues have taken center stage in political discussions across the globe. How do these large-scale issues affect Franklin? Answering this question is the goal of Pantherbook’s newest series, known as Environmental Investigations.

Each week, a new article will be posted detailing an ecological problem pertaining to Franklin High School, or the town as a whole.

The series will be kicked off by Anika Patchala, who will talk about FHS’s resident environmental activists: the Green Team. Halle Goldsmith will discuss recycling practices and Amanda Wylie will inform readers about plant-based meat as a solution to meat overconsumption. Next, Gretchen Scotland will detail the issue of forest fragmentation in Franklin. Amelia Johnson-Pelligri will investigate the purportedly unsustainable cafeteria practices at FHS. Finally, Elise Ravich will summarize the findings of other journalists by describing the most effective ways for readers to get involved."
Continue reading about the new series
https://franklinpanthers.us/top-stories/2019/11/15/upcoming-series-environmental-investigations/


Is Franklin doing a good job conserving beautiful landscapes like this one? (Photo by Emily Cesa)
Is Franklin doing a good job conserving beautiful landscapes like this one? (Photo by Emily Cesa)

Register O'Donnell Reports Strong Lending Numbers Continue in October 2019


Norfolk County Registry of Deeds

Register O'Donnell Reports Strong Lending Numbers Continue in October

Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell reported lending activity, fueled by continued low interest rates, showed significant increases during October 2019.

O'Donnell noted, "As we saw during the 3rd quarter 2019, significant increases year over year were seen with lending activity in Norfolk County. A total of 3,373 mortgages were recorded in October, a significant 62% increase compared to October 2018. Also, the total amount of money borrowed against Norfolk County properties during the month was $1.9 billion, a 106% increase compared to the previous year. 


While this particular figure was impacted by two commercial loans of $100 million and $160 million recorded against Franklin and Braintree properties respectively, the statistics also show that positive trend lines relative to borrowing in the county continue unabated. Consumers are clearly taking advantage of low interest rates to purchase big ticket items and pay for large capital expenses."

During October, the number of county real estate transactions both residential and commercial, recorded was 3,373, a 5% increase year over year. Buyers also saw encouraging signs as the average real estate sales price, again both residential and commercial, fell 6% to $878,369. Total dollar real estate sales for the month was $866 million, a 2% decrease from the previous year. "These figures," noted the Register, "bear watching as they may portend a real estate inventory increase and more options for prospective Norfolk County homeowners."

Norfolk County homeowners continued to show they are very familiar with the benefits of the Homestead Act. A total of 1,042 Homesteads were recorded during the month of October, a 2% increase compared to October 2018. Register O'Donnell reiterated the importance of having a Homestead. "A Homestead provides limited protection against the forced sale of a homeowner's primary residence to satisfy unsecured debt up to $500,000. I urge Norfolk County residents to consider this important consumer protection tool."

One surprise seen during October was a small increase in the number of foreclosure deeds recorded countywide. A total of 17 foreclosure deeds were recorded compared to 14 during the same timeframe in 2018. This bit of bad news was offset by a 28% decrease in the number of Notice to Foreclose Mortgages, the first step in the foreclosure process, recorded during the month.

O'Donnell stated, "The reduction in the number of Notice to Foreclose Mortgage recordings in October was certainly encouraging. With that said, we want any homeowner facing challenges paying their mortgage to know help is available. The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds has partnered with Quincy Community Action Programs, 617-479-8181 x376 and NeighborWorks Housing Solutions, 508-587-0950 to help any homeowner who has received a Notice to Foreclose Mortgage document. An additional option available is to contact the Massachusetts Attorney General's Consumer Advocacy and Response Division (CARD) at 617-727-8400."

Register O'Donnell concluded, "A robust eastern Massachusetts economy continues to propel the Norfolk County real estate market in a positive direction. Strong lending activity, also fueled by low interest rates, and an uptick in real estate sales shows Norfolk County homeowners are confident about the current state of the economy and their finances. Another possible factor to consider could be concern that a possible recession, forecast by some economic watchdogs, could mean it is more advantageous to borrow now instead of in calendar year 2020."

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

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


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

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

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Register O'Donnell Reports Strong Lending Numbers Continue in October
Register O'Donnell Reports Strong Lending Numbers Continue in October

Franklin Starbucks - hiring event - Dec 2

Franklin Starbucks is hosting a hiring event on Monday December 2 from 3 to 6 PM
Franklin Starbucks - hiring event - Dec 2
Franklin Starbucks - hiring event - Dec 2

Hiring Event
at the
Franklin Starbucks

648 Old West Central Street

Monday, December 2

3:00 PM - 6:00 PM



Sunday, November 17, 2019

PEDC presents the Nutcracker! - four performances on Dec 7-8

With the explosive growth of the arts in the Franklin community, Patti Eisenhauer Dance Center is proud to present the Nutcracker with four performances this holiday season. The performances will take place on Saturday, December 7 at 1:30 and 5:30 PM and Sunday, December 8, at 12:30 PM and 3:30 PM at Bellingham High School.

Dancing the role of Young Clara is Haylee Goguen, Cheyanne Kelley and Abigail Scollins. Mature Clara will be danced by Grace Jerrier, Rachel Barrows, Jackie Dubois and Angelina Rak.

In other lead roles, the Snow Queen will be danced by Emily Conroy, Julia Broll, Nora Hansen and Kaitlyn Auerbach. The Dew Drop Fairy features Larissa Logan, Amanda Mason, Ellie Rodrigues and Dani Bean. The featured dancers for the coveted role of the Sugar Plum Fairy are Andrea Gray, Isabella Lambros, Samantha Robillard and Bridgette Ginley. 

The box office is open and tickets are limited for the performances. Ticket prices are family-friendly at $18. Tickets are available by calling PEDC at 508-520-7873 or emailing pedcnews@gmail.com.

The show is performed at Bellingham High School's auditorium, 60 Blackstone St., Bellingham, MA.

From left to right, first row: Abigail Scollins, Haylee Goguen and Cheyanne Kelley as Ypung Clara; second row: Jackie Dubois, Agelina Rak, Grace Jerrier and Rachel Barros as Mature Clara; third row: Julia Broll, Katelyn Auerback, Isabella Lambros, Ellie Rodriques and Amanda Mason; fourth row: Emily Conroy, Samantha Robillard, Bridgette Ginley, Andrea Gray, Dani Bean and Larissa Logan. Missing: Norah Hansen. Photo credit: Marcos Esteves
From left to right, first row: Abigail Scollins, Haylee Goguen and Cheyanne Kelley as Ypung Clara; second row: Jackie Dubois, Agelina Rak, Grace Jerrier and Rachel Barros as Mature Clara; third row: Julia Broll, Katelyn Auerback, Isabella Lambros, Ellie Rodriques and Amanda Mason; fourth row: Emily Conroy, Samantha Robillard, Bridgette Ginley, Andrea Gray, Dani Bean and Larissa Logan. Missing: Norah Hansen. Photo credit: Marcos Esteves

For more info on the Patti Eisenhauer Dance Center visit
https://www.pattieisenhauerdancecenter.com/

School Committee - recap - Nov 12, 2019

Unlike the Town Council meeting on Wednesday, the new School Committee members were not sworn in during the public meeting as scheduled for 7:00 PM. Apparently, there was a pre-meeting before the public session to take care of the swearing in.

As for the public meeting, it was opened at 7 PM as scheduled by Superintendent Sara Ahern who after the blessing and pledge of allegiance, facilitated the nomination and election (unanimous) of the new Chair, Anne Bergen. 

The Chair, then conducted the nominations for Vice-Chair. There was one for Denise Spencer that was not seconded, and one for Mary Jane Scofield that was did receive a second. Scofield received all 7 votes for Vice Chair.

The Actions Taken document as posted in incomplete in at least two items. One as noted here on the vote for the Vice Chair, the other nomination without a second is not acknowledged. The second item is in regards to the Consent Agenda, as 5 members were not present for the meeting covered by the minutes  up for approval, these minutes were separated from the other consent agenda items to all the five new members to abstain. The minutes were approved 2-0-5 (approve-no-abstain). The remaining Consent Agenda items were approved unanimously (7-0-0).
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/franklinmaps/files/news/scagenda_11-12-19_actions_taken.pdf

Also of note, on a similar vote for prior meeting minutes for the Town Council on Weds, the new members were allowed to vote (rather than abstain). Town Attorney, Mark Cerel, approved of this action. For further research: there are differences between School and Town but I don't know if this is one of them, it would seem likely to operate on this matter in the same manner.


The Superintendent's report
https://www.franklinps.net/district/news/superintendents-report-111219


Documents released for this meeting
https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/pages/november-12-2019-school-committee-packet

Additional details can be found in my notes updated after the meeting. I used Twitter and my pen and paper notebook to capture notes during the meeting (along with the audio recording)
  • Live reporting: Consent Agenda through to Closing
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/11/live-reporting-consent-agenda-through.html
  • Live reporting: Discussion - Action Items
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/11/live-reporting-discussion-action-items.html
  • Live reporting: School Committee - Nov 12, 2019
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/11/live-reporting-school-committee-nov-12.html


School Committee - recap - Nov 12, 2019
School Committee - recap - Nov 12, 2019

FPS Voice - A town podcast on wfpr●fm

FPS Voice - A town podcast on wfpr●fm
by Pete Fasciano, Executive Director, Franklin●TV ad wfpr●fm
"Our radio studios were designed for producing the programs that you hear on the air at 102.9fm and online at wfpr●fm. But, in our digital age the audio podcast is another increasingly popular form of ‘radio’.

Like video-on-demand, you can listen to an audio podcast anytime, anywhere. A new podcast joins us this week – FPS voice. It’s all about Franklin’s Public Schools (and Panther Pride of course). 

Here, Anne Marie Tracey talks with School Superintendent Sara Ahearn and FHS High School Principle Paul Peri. It starts this Wednesday, at 9A.

See you soon – on the radio."
Questions? 508-541-4118.
As always – Thank you for listening to wfpr●fm. And, thanks for watching.

"The Official Podcast of the Franklin Public Schools, Franklin, MA. Learn more about what is happening in our school district, ask questions, hear from members of the FPS Community and special guests! Connect with us!
Submit questions and topics to fpsvoice@franklinps.net"

The intro episode is available now  https://anchor.fm/fpsvoice

Listen to wfpr.fm  from your computer or mobile device  http://radio.citrus3.com:8418/;stream.mp3

Anne Marie Tracey talks with School Superintendent Sara Ahearn and FHS High School Principle Paul Peri
Anne Marie Tracey talks with School Superintendent Sara Ahearn and FHS High School Principle Paul Peri (Franklin TV photo)

Christmas Ornaments for sale at the Franklin Historical Museum

Beautiful Town Common Gazebo ornaments are available at the Franklin Historical Museum gift shop for $16.00. They are a great gift to hang on the tree of anyone who loves Franklin. Neighbors, friends, family and co-workers will all love this thoughtful gift. They come packaged each in their own box, for safe storage. 

Ornaments, and Cat’s Meow collectables of the New Library, the Franklin Train Station and the Red Brick School are available while they last. Cat’s Meow collectables are $18.00 each. Proceeds go to the Friends of the Franklin Historical Museum. 

Museum winter hours are Saturday mornings 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and Sunday afternoons 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

Visit the Franklin Historical Museum online at https://www.franklinmuseum1778.com/
 
Town Common Gazebo ornaments
Town Common Gazebo ornaments  

What Is the 2020 Census?

The 2020 Census counts every person living in the United States and five U.S. territories. Each home will receive an invitation to respond to a short questionnaire—online, by phone, or by mail. 

Watch this new Public Service Announcement (PSA) by the U.S. Census Bureau to learn more about what the 2020 Census is, why it’s written in the U.S. Constitution, and why it’s important.

https://youtu.be/Syg4zqb0iCU




For more about the 2020 Census  https://2020census.gov/en.html

Note: This is separate and distinct from the annual census conducted by the Franklin Town Clerk. The Franklin survey should be in the mail during January 2020. The federal 2020 Census starts April 1, 2020.

FHS' Calitri runs to 9th at the Boys Cross Country State meet

The FHS results from the D1 boys cross country State meet


MIAA Boys All State Division l Cross Country Championships 2019 - 11/16/2019          
                          Gardner Municipal Golf Course                           
                               Last Completed Event                               
 
Event 4  Boys 5k Run CC Division 1
==================================================================================
    Name                    Year School                  Avg 1K     Finals  Points
==================================================================================
  1 #599 Mike Griffin         12 King Philip               3:14      16:06        
  2 #517 William Chaffin      12 Concord-Carlisle          3:15      16:13    1   
  3 #674 Loeden Rodrigues     11 Marblehead                3:17      16:22    2   
  4 #831 Steven Jackson       12 Saint John's Prep         3:17      16:24    3   
  5 #600 Mike Norberg         12 King Philip               3:18      16:26        
  6 #771 Tobias L'Esperance   12 Northampton               3:18      16:28    4   
  7 #918 Jason Norris         12 Wellesley                 3:18      16:29    5   
  8 #508 Myles Liss-Riordan   11 Brookline                 3:18      16:29    6   
  9 #551 Nicholas Calitri     11 Franklin                  3:19      16:31        
 10 #503 Joe Young            12 Boston Latin School       3:19      16:32        
 11 #500 Stephen Carvalho     12 Belmont                   3:19      16:33        
 12 #705 Bobby Carew          12 Milton                    3:19      16:34    7   
 13 #515 James Johnson        11 Burlington                3:19      16:34        
 14 #832 Nathan Lopez          9 Saint John's Prep         3:20      16:36    8   
 15 #639 Tommy Li             11 Longmeadow                3:20      16:36    9   
 16 #912 Tyler Sullivan       12 Walpole                   3:20      16:37   10   
 17 #901 Tanner Jellison      12 Wakefield                 3:20      16:39        
 18 #579 Alexander Brown      12 Hopkinton                 3:21      16:41   11   
 19 #550 Tyler Brogan         12 Franklin                  3:21      16:44        




Congrats to Tyler and Nick for ending very successful seasons at All-States today. Nick placed 9th!! On to Reggie👀
Congrats to Tyler and Nick for ending very successful seasons at All-States today. Nick placed 9th!! On to Reggie
👀

The MIAA results page  http://miaa.ezstream.net/index.cfm?itemid=8339


Saturday, November 16, 2019

Story time with Mrs Claus at the Franklin Historical Museum - Dec 1

Story time with Mrs Claus at the Franklin Historical Museum - Dec 1
Story time with Mrs Claus
Everyone’s favorite storyteller, Mrs. Claus, returns to the Franklin Historical Museum, for her annual visit on Sunday, December 1, from 1:30-3:30. Join us for some warm cocoa, candy canes and story time with Mrs. Claus. 

Children of all ages enjoy this special time of year, listening to a Christmas story from their special holiday friend. There will still be plenty of time to head down to the common for Christmas on the Common (at 4 PM). 

Make it an afternoon of holiday delights for the children. Mrs. Claus will be waiting.


Visit the Franklin Historical Museum online at https://www.franklinmuseum1778.com/