Wednesday, November 18, 2020

Franklin Public Schools: District Newsletter - November 2020

District Newsletter - November 2020
The SWAC Committee includes representation from FPS students, parents, staff, School Committee members, community members and administrators from across our district who are working to develop programs that actively promote wellness in our schools. SWAC's focus areas fall under the following categories:
  • Nutrition
  • Mental Health/Self Care
  • Physical Activity
The committee meets monthly to discuss and plan initiatives to support wellness not only for our FPS students, but for faculty and families as well. SWAC actively partners with organizations, businesses and community groups to facilitate programming and other wellness initiatives.

The Nutrition Subcommittee is currently working on creating a family communication series related to Nutritional Education, which will include cooking demonstrations, recipe sharing and other related activities. They are seeking feedback from the FPS community regarding how best to access this information. Please fill out the Nutritional Education Survey below. Thank you in advance and stay tuned for more news from SWAC!
The children at ECDC (Early Childhood Development Center) have been very busy with fall-themed fun! Students have engaged in plenty of hands-on activities such as jack-o-lantern painting, making oobleck, examining fall leaves under a magnifying glass and reading seasonal books together. Recently, the children enjoyed performing a favorite science experiment: Sink or Float. Students made predictions prior to dropping objects into water and then observed what happened. (Always a big hit!)
The students are also being introduced to letters and the sounds they make, while practicing letter formations using a variety of materials. As a group they are practicing important social-emotional skills such as sharing, and caring about others feelings. Enjoy some photos of our littlest learners!
FHS offers a wide variety of clubs to appeal to our diverse student population and their interests. In lieu of our traditional in-person Club Fair, students can browse the options on the FHS Virtual Club Fair website. Clubs fall in many categories, such as Awareness & Charities, Academic, Visual & Performing Arts, Government & Politics, Honor Societies and more! Visit the Club Fair website and find out more!

This week, all three FPS Middle Schools will be welcoming Virtual Visiting Author, Jordan Sonnenblick! Students will be able to engage with the author in a variety of ways, including writers workshop activities and small group question and answer sessions. A virtual evening event is also planned to allow families to connect with author along with their children. Students and families are encouraged to submit questions prior via the link attached. The schedule of Mr. Sonnenblick's virtual visit is as follows:
  • November 18th - Horace Mann Middle School Visit
  • November 19th - Annie Sullivan Middle School Visit
  • November 19th - Virtual Evening Event
  • November 20th- Remington Middle School Visit

Thank you to the Franklin Education Foundation and the Middle School PCC's for making these events possible!
Upcoming FHS Theater Performances
Enjoy a Live Stream Performance of
A Cabaret!
  • Thursday 11/19 at 5:30pm
  • Friday November 20th at 6pm.

FHS Theater Company presents CLUE: On Stage
  • Thursday December 3rd at 7pm
  • Friday December 4th at 7pm
This will be a LIVE STREAMED ONLY event. To purchase tickets for the performance, and view it from home, click HERE
Franklin Public Schools | www.franklinps.net
Town of Franklin | 355 East Central Street, Franklin, MA 02038
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Franklin's Cultural District Notes - November 2020

Welcome from The Chair ... Nancy Schoen

We are now almost halfway through November and are approaching the holiday season. Like many other things in 2020 our holidays will be very different than they have been in the past. Due to the rising numbers of Covid-19 cases, many holiday gatherings, performances and celebrations will be held virtually. In response to the high number of cases, Massachusetts Governor Baker has issued some new guidelines for businesses, restaurants and performance venues. These new guidelines are designed to help prevent the spread of the Covid-19 virus and to hopefully prevent the need for another lockdown in our state.

Although the cooler weather and additional restrictions are a challenge it is amazing to see the creativity in the Franklin community. Several Franklin restaurants are now moving most of their dining indoors, rearranging indoor spaces to accommodate social distancing requirements. Others are continuing to offer outdoor dining in tents with outdoor patio heaters. The recent warm weather enabled many more diners to enjoy a lovely outdoor meal.

The Franklin Public Schools community was excited to see the students gradually return to school. The Franklin elementary and middle schools began “in person” instruction in October. The high school students are continuing to attend school remotely, but will hopefully begin the “hybrid model” of instruction on November 16th. The high school music students produced a Chamber Music concert on November 5th which was broadcast via livestream. Seventy middle school band students from all three middle schools practiced together remotely and then performed a mini concert virtually.

As you begin your holiday preparations and shopping please remember to “Keep it Local” and support the many wonderful businesses right here in Franklin!

 

For the complete newsletter and prior newsletter archives, please visit

 

Franklin's Cultural District Notes - November 2020
Franklin's Cultural District Notes - November 2020


 

Tuesday, November 17, 2020

FM #391 Health Dir Cathleen Liberty - 11/12/20 (audio)

FM #391 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 391 in the series. 

This session of the radio show shares my conversation with Franklin, MA Health Director Cathleen Liberty. We had our conversation via conference bridge to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

We talk about how she is keeping her head above water on the COVID-19 pandemic, all the recent changes and what remains the same, especially as we head into this holiday season.

The recording runs about 24 minutes, so let’s listen to my conversation with Cathleen   Audio file = https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/HyBwn4CS


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Health Dept page  https://www.franklinma.gov/health-department 

Town of Franklin Coronovirus portal  https://www.franklinma.gov/home/pages/coronavirus-information-portal 

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We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial. 

This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.

How can you help?
  • If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors
  • If you don't like something here, please let me know
Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.

For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/

If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com

The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana"  c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.

I hope you enjoy!

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You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

FM #391 Health Dir Cathleen Liberty - 11/12/20 (audio)
FM #391 Health Dir Cathleen Liberty - 11/12/20 (audio)

Franklin Historical Museum: December Schedule & tree Ornaments for sale

The Franklin Historical Museum is open once again with a limited schedule.  We will be open on Sundays only until further notice, 1:00PM-4:00PM.  
 
In keeping with the present COVID-19 protocols masks are required and social distancing is monitored. 
 
We invite you visit our newly revamped Gift Shop with many new items with a Franklin theme.  Our popular tree ornaments are back, this year with two designs. Don't miss your chance to purchase the Franklin Library ornament and the Downtown Water Trough ornament before they sell out. 
 
From all of us at the Franklin Historical Museum we wish you an your families safe and Happy Holidays. Visit us at 80 West Central Street, Franklin MA. The museum is ADA compliant and admission is always Free. Donations are gratefully accepted.
 
 
December Schedule & tree Ornaments for sale
December Schedule & tree Ornaments for sale


FHS girls soccer fall to Mansfield to close out season

Via HockomockSports.com, we share the fall sports results for Franklin High School on Monday, Nov 16
 
Girls Soccer = Consolation Rounds = Mansfield, 1 @ Franklin, 0 – Final 
– Cathryn Cooney won the game and completed a season sweep for the Hornets, scoring from the penalty spot with 12 minutes left in the game. Franklin coach Tom Geysen called it a well-played, physical game from both teams. 

For other results around the Hockomock League  


FHS girls soccer fall to Mansfield to close out season
FHS girls soccer fall to Mansfield to close out season

Final results of the Nov 3, 2020 election for Franklin voters

With the 20552 votes cast, this was the largest single total in Franklin, MA history. However, they represent 83% of the registered voters and in the Presidential election of 2016, we turned out 86%.
 
 
or below

  ...  

 

Final results of the Nov 3, 2020 election for Franklin voters
Final results of the Nov 3, 2020 election for Franklin voters

 

Keep It Local - Support Franklin Businesses

Keep an eye open for the new Keep It Local signs in the windows and on the doors of many Franklin businesses. The Franklin Downtown Partnership (FDP) has been distributing the signs to remind people of the importance of continuing to support our local establishments who have been hit so hard by the pandemic. Residents and businesses are invited to take photos with the signs and post them on Facebook and Instagram. Tag the FDP on those posts and the FDP will share them on its social media.

"We need to keep the focus on our local businesses, not only during the holiday season, but throughout the winter,” said FDP Executive Director Lisa Piana. “The Partnership reminds members of the community to spend locally whenever possible.“

If you would like to support local Franklin businesses, join the FDP as a resident member for only $25 a year. Visit the FDP website or email downtown.franklin@yahoo.com for more information.

The FDP is a non-profit 501©3 organization made up of nearly 300 residents, business owners and community leaders working to revitalize downtown Franklin. The Partnership manages events like the Strawberry Stroll and the Harvest Festival, and initiatives such as beautification, streetscape design, greenspace, alley murals, and sculpture projects. For more information go to www.franklindowntownpartnership.org

 
Keep It Local - Support Franklin Businesses

Keep It Local - Support Franklin Businesses


Simplicity and Differentiation Workshop for job-seekers - discount code

Via Ed Lawrence:

I have an update for the workshops I previously posted; a discount code for you.
==============================================

More details and to register:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/simplicity-and-personal-brand-for-job-seekers-tickets-128648026711

Simplicity and Personal Brand for Job Seekers
by Stephen Melanson, President of Melanson Consulting

In this 2-session package, learn Simplicity, Personal Brand, Differentiation, and the confidence that comes from focus and clarity.

Thursday December 10th;  1pm - 2pm EST

*****Save $10 - At registration, use Code:  December     ********

Stephen Melanson, the corporate branding specialist, has announced a two-session workshop for job-seekers.

Dec 10 and 17 - 1-2:00 PM ET


If you're looking for your next professional role, you have to break away from the pack and be clear about your value. And if it's not simple enough, it won't work as well as you need.

Why would an employer be crazy to not hire you? Do you know? Can you verbalize it in about 5 seconds, or describe it in a few words?

In this two-session package, we'll cover:

  • The rules for 'Simplicity' as a business tool
  • What 'Verbal Branding' is, and how to use it
  • How to differentiate and not commoditize yourself
  • Building a strategy for job seeking that works
  • Viewing the effort to sell yourself
  • How to be more effective in less time
  • The scary, critical truth about being memorable
  • Confidence and a little courage
Register via Eventbrite:

TESTIMONIAL QUOTE: Conference Speaker for Top 5 Asset Management firm worldwide: Annual Summit, 2019 "Yours was the only session to get a perfect score from the audience."

NOTE: There are no refunds for this package. Please be sure you can attend before signing up.

To learn more about Stephen Melanson:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenmelansonconsulting/

 

Job Search Workshop: "Simplicity and Personal Brand for Job Seekers"
Job Search Workshop: "Simplicity and Personal Brand for Job Seekers"

Legal Notice: Franklin Tax Hearing - Dec 2

Legal Notice
Franklin Tax Hearing
Notice Of Public Hearing
Property Tax Classification


The Franklin Town Council will hold a Public Hearing in the Council Chambers in the Municipal Office Building, 355 East Central Street, Franklin, MA on Wednesday evening, December 2, 2020 at 7:10 P.M. on the issue of allocating the local property tax levy among the 5 property classes for the Fiscal Year 2021. The hearing will provide an open forum for the discussion of local property tax policy. Interested taxpayers may present oral or written information on their views.

Prior to the setting of the tax rate, the Town Council must adopt a Residential Factor following which the Council selects the percentage of the levy to be borne by Commercial and Industrial and Personal Property.

This meeting will be done remotely via the “ZOOM” platform. Residents can visit the Town Website (Franklinma.gov) and click on the Town Calendar for up to date information on how to access the meeting. If you have any questions, please call the Town Administrator’s Office at (508) 520-4949.

 

Submitted by,

Alecia Alleyne
Licensing Administrator

 

Legal Notice: Franklin Tax Hearing - Dec 2
Legal Notice: Franklin Tax Hearing - Dec 2

Monday, November 16, 2020

Business Listening Session for Monday, 11/16/20 has been postponed until December 9th

Business Listening Session for Monday - 11/16/20 has been postponed until December 9th

Business Listening Session for Monday, 11/16/20 has been postponed until December 9th
Business Listening Session for Monday, 11/16/20 has been postponed until December 9th


Santa on the Common - now a drive by event - Nov 29

Due to the pandemic we are changing the format of Santa on the Common. A Drive By is planned where you can see Santa in your car. You must follow these simple rules:
  1. Santa will be on the corner of Main and High St. 
  2. You family must enter by Union St. and exit Main St.
  3. You and your family must wear masks
  4. Before you see Santa give your Christmas list to the person before Santa
  5. When you are in front of Santa you can wave and greet him and he will give you a souvenir of the event
  6. After you have greeted Santa you will be given a gift certificate for a treat 
  7. We hope you join us, for Santa wants to be able to see  you before his magical flight
When?
Sunday - November 29, 2020 - 4:00 PM



Download a copy of the flyer as a reminder

Santa on the Common - now a drive by event - Nov 29
Santa on the Common - now a drive by event - Nov 29


Watch "Finding Easy Walks Wherever You Are: Episode 4" on YouTube

Marjorie Turner Hollman asked me to join her in exploring the Franklin Sculpture Park and our walk was recorded. You can join us for the about 30 minute conversation while leisurely walking around the Sculpture Park.

Her blog post about our walk and the video


The Boston Globe featured her in a recent article

In September, we shared a conversation with Marjorie that you can listen to here

Other videos in the Easy Walks series can be found   https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRF7rPOnQu8LcznPFbScrPA


 



A photo of the Dean College dance group performing in 2015
A photo of the Dean College dance group performing in 2015


The Sculpture Park decorated for Halloween in 2019

Photos from 2014 when the Sculpture Park opened

Business Listening Session - Nov 16 - 6:30 PM with focus on Retail, Personal Services & Fitness Industries

Thank you for your interest in joining our upcoming Business Listening Session on Monday, November 16th at 6:30 PM.  Our focus for the evening will be the Retail, Personal Services & Fitness Industries.  We are looking forward to hearing from you and learning ways in which the Economic Development Committee and the Town of Franklin can help support your businesses during these difficult times.  We are also looking to the future and hoping to hear feedback and ideas to plan for 2021 and beyond.  

Our goal is truly to listen and learn from our businesses.  We encourage you to come with questions, ideas, strategies, and feedback.


Please reach out with any questions.  

Thank you
Anne Marie 

Anne Marie Tracey
Marketing & Communications Specialist 

The business listening flyer can be found here

Recordings of the prior listening sessions are available


Business Listening Session - Nov 16 - 6:30 PM
Business Listening Session - Nov 16 - 6:30 PM