B I N G O, and Bingo was his name oh! #ShopFranklinBINGO

Catching up to sharing this #ShopFranklinBINGO card

Thanks to Melanie Hamblen for creating this excuse to visit some Franklin retail locations!

"Happy March! Happy #ShopFranklinBingo month. Bring this card with you as you #ShopFranklin for the month of March. Have the shop keeper sign and date the square that corresponds to your purchase. Be creative and most of all have fun! 

Turn in one Bingo, or fill up the card. Your BINGO's are entries into raffles. More than one entry is allowed. 

Turn the cards in by April 7 for some awesome prizes. Purchases must be from locally owned, independent businesses."

Download your #ShopFranklinBINGO card here or via the embedded file below
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NdEVKi7WCbh8qwRh_2O3ODnTFSxgcUEJ/view?usp=sharing

B I N G O, and bingo was his name oh!

This was shared from the #ShopFranklin Facebook post
https://www.facebook.com/groups/shopFranklin/permalink/2628373703939800/

Choose and cut your own Christmas tree at Lyon Landscape Nursery

"Looking for a Christmas tree this year?

Come on over to Lyon Landscape Nursery located on 250 Bent street starting Friday (11/29) at 8 AM to get your own locally grown tree. Trees under 8’ are $55, over 8’ $75."

We stopped by on Saturday to walk the rows of tree to pick out a nice one for our house.

Choose and cut your own Christmas tree at Lyon Landscape Nursery (Lyon Nursery Facebook photo)

Info shared from Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=2793680260645052&set=gm.2461858754084136&type=3&theater

Melanie Hamblen says "Thank you!"

Via Facebook post by Melanie Hamblen:

"This was amazing. Thank you everyone for participating. Together we can stomp out the stigma of addiction and support our community. 

Jen Knight of the SAFE Coalition and I picked out 21 games at Pete's Nerd Emporium Wowza! Thank you Franklin!"

With collaboration among the #ShopFranklin business like this, here is a good reason to visit both establishments (if you haven't already).

Jen Knight of the SAFE Coalition and I picked out 21 games at
Pete's Nerd Emporium Wowza! Thank you Franklin!

close up on the games selected, quite a variety!

The Facebook post can be found
https://www.facebook.com/groups/shopFranklin/permalink/1852416648202180/

The challenge ran from Nov 24 to Dec 8
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2018/11/charitable-givings-with-petes-and.html

For more information about the work of the SAFE Coalition
http://www.safecoalitionma.org/

"You know you’re going to like it when you leave here”

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

"It starts with the distinct flavor of Italian basil, freshly plucked from the garden -- summer distilled down into a teaspoon, washing pleasantly over every taste bud. 

And then it transforms and there are strawberries, warmed by the sun, lingering like a late June twilight, a luxurious afterthought. 

The taster’s face blooms with pleasure: The pairing of basil-infused olive oil and strawberry balsamic vinegar is a pure delight. The connoisseur grins, pleased to have elicited such a response. He pokes a finger into the air in a “just wait” gesture, his expression speaking volumes. He has another palatable creation to share. 

“This!” he says, taking up a small sampling cup from atop a thick cutting board, “This is a sweet pepper stuffed with mascarpone and drizzled with Saba, which is a traditional dark balsamic vinegar.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20181216/at-franklins-little-shop-of-olive-oils-taste-is-what-its-all-about

The Butter infused olive oil is great for making popcorn

Lyon Landscape and Nursery: pick and cut your Christmas tree

"I would like to say thank you to all the folks who came to the first annual Xmas tree sale at our farm. The sale exceeded my expectations. I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday. Unfortunately, we have sold out of all our trees for this year.
Next year we will have a larger selection of taller and fuller trees. Best of luck in the New Year."
-Alex Lyon, Lyon Landscape Nursery Inc.

updated Dec 2, 2018

"After 7 years of planting, watering, fertilizing, and mowing, our first crop of Frasier Fir Christmas trees are ready for harvest. I invite all friends, family, and valued customers who have supported my Landscape Contracting business over the years to stop by for a locally grown organic Christmas tree. 

We will be open the next (3) weekends 10 AM - 4 PM starting today. We are located at 250 Bent Street, Franklin MA. 

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and all the best in 2019!"

Lyon Landscape and Nursery: pick and cut your Christmas tree (courtesy photo)

Visit Lyon Landscape and Nursery on the internet
https://www.lyonlandscapenursery.com/

Shared via Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=2215154692098617&set=p.2215154692098617&type=3&theater

Check out Coffee In Italia

"As the holiday season gears up, check out new(ish) Franklin owned business www.coffeeinitalia.com for gift ideas for those coffee fiends in your life! Like our page and get notified when our Black Friday sales start. 

Or, order now using code "LOCALFREEDELIVER" and pay no shipping if you live in Franklin ... get it delivered straight to your doorstep!"

From the About page:

"Our history with Italian coffee goes back a few years and during that time we've made all the mistakes possible! We received a Moka as a gift and managed to break it after the first use because we paid no attention to the direction not to twist it by the handle. We've learned why the pressure valve is important when making stove-top espresso. We've learned why Italian baristas looked at us knowingly when we order Cappuccino after lunch. We've stared confusingly at an unrequested glass of water provided by the barista in various parts of the country. 

Our Italian travels have deepened our love of espresso, not just the drink itself, but more importantly the culture around it that you find in Italy. Popping into a bar in the early morning, late morning, before and after lunch or whenever you need a boost and some chiacchierata (a chat). The process of going to the register to order and pay the reasonable price, then heading to the counter with the receipt for the barista, standing there to drink it. Perfetto! 

We plan this site to be more than a place to buy espresso and espresso makers at great prices (although if that’s all you want to do, go for it!). Together we will create a community of like minded Italophiles, travelers, former expats, espresso lovers as well as those who either want to reminisce about their magical Italian experiences or prepare for a new adventure. 

We also will be blogging about new coffees, coffee makers, espresso machines and other offerings by the great Italian companies that we love so you can join in the conversation there... "

Let’s talk!
Adrianna and Beppe

screen grab of Coffee In Italia

FTC Consumer Alerts: New materials on cybersecurity for small business

New materials on cybersecurity for small business by Rosario Méndez Attorney, Division of Consumer and Business Education, FTC If you own a small business, you know it's critical to protect your business from cyber threats. Today (Oct 18, 2018), the FTC launched new cybersecurity resources for small businesses. What better time to check out these new resources than now – it's National Cybersecurity Awareness Month and this week's theme is cybersecurity at work. The campaign is co-branded with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and the Small Business Administration (SBA). Read more https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2018/10/new-materials-cybersecurity-small-business?utm_source=govdelivery This is a free service provided by the Federal Trade Commission.

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In the News: benefits to ballroom dancing; few contests for Primary; Plymouth gearing for 400th Anniversary

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

"Nina DiPerrio started teaching at the Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Franklin about the same time “Dancing with the Stars” premiered on ABC in 2005. Her bragging rights include performing with professionals from the hit show who were encouraging and eager to share their knowledge. 

DiPerrio credits the popular television show with bringing an influx of new students to the studio and changing the demographic. Younger people especially, are eager to give ballroom dancing a whirl. 

“Most people say it’s something they always wanted to do, but never tried before. ‘Dancing with the Stars’ showed that it’s doable, that dance is not something that is out of their reach,” said DiPerrio, who started dance lessons at age 5. “The Fred Astaire studios put a lot of emphasis on community and the social aspect, and create a very encouraging and inviting atmosphere.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20180901/shall-we-dance-from-salsa-to-foxtrot-ballroom-dance-is-all-rage

Debunking Common Ballroom Dance Myths

"With just a couple days to go before primary elections, contested races have heated up across Massachusetts. 

The primary, scheduled for Tuesday, will decide which Democratic and Republican candidates will go on to run against one another in the general election scheduled for Nov. 6. 

This year, the primary is scheduled for the day after Labor Day, which could complicate voting for some people, such as families with school-age children and college students, who might be leaving the state."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20180901/few-contested-races-could-impact-voter-turnout-for-sept-4-primary

Primary Election Info for Sep 4
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2018/09/primary-election-info-for-tuesday-sep-4.html

"With the 400th anniversary of the settlement of Plymouth Colony a little more than a year away, state officials this past week looked ahead to what the commemoration would mean for Massachusetts. 

Michele Pecoraro, executive director of the nonprofit organization Plymouth 400, offered up the countdown at a press conference Tuesday in the State Library, where she said the 2020 event series would “reflect the history and culture of the commonwealth from a holistic view.” 

“The native people and English settlers left historic footprints throughout Massachusetts, from Provincetown to Mashpee, from Aquinnah to Plymouth and right on into Boston and beyond,” she said. 

The Plymouth 400 “signature events” will launch on April 24, 2020 with an opening ceremony and run through Thanksgiving week. They will deal with themes including exploration, innovation, self-governance, immigration and religious expression, Pecoraro said."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20180901/state-plymouth-gear-up-for-quadricentennial

Dress Code Boutique - "Sneak Peek" Party - Dec 16

"So thrilled to invite you all to our grand opening "sneak peek" party Saturday December 16, 2017 for Dress Code located at 58 East Central St Franklin, Ma 

Come take a look at the beautiful one of kind 2018 prom and pageant collection for this upcoming year. Meet scouting agents for the Miss USA and Teen USA pageant system, hair and makeup stylists to help our prom girls this season, skincare experts and not to mention gift with purchase for any gowns you take home that night! 

RSVP to stacey@staceyfrasca.com 

See you all there!!! Drop in times for Saturday December 16 5:00-8:00 PM"

Dress Code Boutique 

58 East Central St 

Franklin, Ma 02038 

508- 440-5591

Dress Code Boutique - "Sneak Peek" Party - Dec 16

Small Business Saturday - Nov 25, 2017

While American Express helps to celebrate Small Business Saturday, many of us know how important it is to shop local and #shopFranklin all year.

Small Business Saturday is a holiday shopping tradition that happens every year on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. 

Founded by American Express in 2010, this nationwide movement helps bring attention to the importance of supporting small businesses in communities across America.

There are plenty of small business to  wisely spread your dollars around.

View the Franklin map to see the small businesses identified by American Express

https://www.americanexpress.com/us/small-business/shop-small/maps/near=Franklin,MA,02038/cl=42.0697133,-71.38836350000001?linknav=us-open-shopsmall-globalheader-map&lang=en-US

Small Business Saturday - Nov 25, 2017

Eat, Drink and Shop Local Holiday Extravaganza - Nov 30

Name: Eat, Drink and Shop Local Holiday Extravaganza
Date: November 30, 2017
Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM EST

Event Description:
Interested in being a retail or food vendor? Want to have your looks walk the runway? See link for more info and sign-up forms. 
http://business.milfordchamber.org/events/details/eat-drink-shop-local-holiday-extravaganza-1076

Download, complete and send back to kbrown@MilfordChamber.org or call us at 508.473.6700.

Location:
Lake Pearl
299 Creek Street
Wrentham, MA

Contact Information:
Kelley Brown, Director of Programs & Services
Send an Email

Fees/Admission:
$25 per person

Eat, Drink and Shop Local Holiday Extravaganza - Nov 30

The Little Shop of Olive Oils - Sampling Sundays - Nov 4 to Dec 24

Come join us at The Little Shop of Olive Oils on Sundays during the holidays and sample some of the finest Ultra-Premium Extra Virgin Olive Oils and Aged Balsamic Vinegars from around the word. You can also check out delicious samplings of Tapenade, Pesto and various Dips from local chefs (while they last). Try the stuffed peppers and olives too!

Treat yourself!

From 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM every Sunday until December 24

For more about Little Shop of Olive Oils, visit them on the web
https://www.shopevoo.com/

#shopFranklin Movie Night on the Town Common

T\he weather was perfect for families to come out to enjoy the free movie on the Town Common Saturday night. Many of Franklin's small businesses sponsored the showing of "Finding Dory".

Make a donation to the SAFE Coalition and enter to win the #shopFranklin Movie Night Raffle Prize worth over $500 from local businesses including: 

$50 to Elizabeth's Bagels$50 American Express card from Fenton Financial GroupEyebrow threading from Rainbow Eyebrow ThreadingNail services from Bellezza Day SpaA beautiful wall mirror from Franklin Glass Company Inc. (value $150)And more gifts from:The Dance StudioFranklin School for the Performing ArtsFocus Designs & PhotosMy Little Sunshine Children's Consignment BoutiqueBrian Richard's SalonBig Biscuit BakeryAnd even more!

Message Sarah Mabardy with a screen shot of your confirmation and you will get 1 entry for every dollar donated at http://safecoalitionma.com/donate/

the crowd settled in for the show

Jim Derick and Dr Jordan Warnick of the SAFE Coalition recording for Franklin TV

Family Movie Night - Saturday, Aug 26, 7:00 PM

Be our guest as the #shopFranklin Business Community invites you to our FREE Family Movie Night on The Franklin Town Common.

Grab some free popcorn and water, buy some pizza, do some shopping and connect with our favorite business owners as you settle in for our showing of "Finding Dory"

Thank you to our#shopFranklin sponsors for making this event possible:

Fenton Financial Group 
Franklin Agway
Franklin Central Pizza
Enchanted Memories Travel
My Little Midge
Franklin Soccer School, Inc.
Tinetrix, Inc.
Franklin School for the Performing Arts
Peace bee and rainbow song henna
Emma's Quilt Cupboard & Sewing Center
SELF Aesthetics and Therapeutic Specialists Medical Spa
Grove Street Auto Repair
Franklin Matters
Hillside Nurseries & Florist
Kennedy Restorations
Happy Tails Doggy Daycare, Inc.
Franklin TV

Additional thanks to
NHS Print for the printed signs
Focus Designs & Photos for the graphic
Franklin Recreation Department for porta potties!

Family Movie Night - Saturday, Aug 26, 7:00 PM

#shopFranklin Family Movie Night on the Town Common - Aug 26

The 2nd annual #shopFranklin Family Movie Night on the Town Common, Saturday, August 26th. With a rain date: Sunday August 27.

The sequel to the movie show last year is queued for viewing this time!

#shopFranklin Family Movie Night on the Town Common - Aug 26

"A willingness to accept change"

Franklin has some of the ingredients that helped Hudson: 

• The SNETT rail trail is located just outside of downtown
• Local zoning was changed in 2017 to allow distiller, winery or brewery tasting rooms
• The downtown renovation project was just completed in 2016
• Local businesses and town officials are talking about what needs to be done

What remains to be done now?

"Downtown Hudson was quiet when Michael Kasseris stepped out into the late night air in 2012. 

Behind him was a Main Street space that had once housed a printing shop, a bagel shop and a gifting shop. 

His uncle owned the building. Kasseris and his two business partners had just opened Rail Trail Flatbread Co. -- a trendy new restaurant featuring wood-fired pizza and craft beer. 

He looked around. The downtown stores, tucked inside historic brick buildings, were empty. The parking spaces were empty. There was no foot traffic."

Continue reading the MassLive article about Hudson
http://www.masslive.com/news/index.ssf/2017/08/hudson_how_this_small_massachu.html

"It was the historic buildings and their curb appeal, the rail trail, the economy in an upswing,
the streetscaping and a dozen little things that became big things."

Hat tip to Melanie for sharing the article!

The Cake Bar's Alec Callahan

"Today we’d like to introduce you to Alec Callahan. 

Alec, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far. 

Growing up I had many interests such as sports, I loved playing baseball, reading comic books and super heroes which is an obsession still to this day. I would say one of the main reasons I ended up going toward the culinary field was coming from such a large family that was cooking all the time. No matter what time of day it was it felt like my mom and aunts were in the kitchen cooking. Sometimes I would offer to help but the majority of the time I would just complain and ask if it was ready yet. I grew up with my older brother and 2 cousins who are basically my sisters. The 4 of us were always together and did anything and everything together including going out to eat to the point of being a well-known foursome in many of the town’s local restaurants. Our tastes have changed but not our love of food."

Read the remainder of Alec's article online
http://bostonvoyager.com/interview/meet-alec-callahan-cake-bar-franklin-ma/

The Cake Bar's Alec Callahan

#shopFranklin Family Movie Night on the Common - August 26

The #shopFranklin business community will hold its 2nd Family Movie Night Saturday, August 26 at 7 PM on the Franklin Town Common.

#shopFranklin Family Movie Night on the Common - August 26

For additional details stay tuned in here, or visit the Facebook event page
https://www.facebook.com/events/1891457511174249/

La Cantina Winery expands - Grand Opening Aug 5

Join us on Saturday, August 5th from 1:00-7:00 for the grand opening of our new extension to the La Cantina Winery located at 357 Union St.

Sample wines produced and bottled locally for FREE!!

extension to the La Cantina Winery located at 357 Union St

It is good to see this expansion to take advantage of the recent passage of the tasting room bylaw for brewery, distillery and winery that was recently passed by the Town Council.

La Cantina Wine School (photo from the archives Sep 2014)

For more about the La Cantina Winery, check out their webpage or stop by the Farmers Market on the Town Common each Friday through October  http://www.lacantinawinery.com/

#shopFranklin Family Movie Night on the Town Common - Aug 26

Hold the date for the 2nd annual #shopFranklin Family Movie Night on the Town Common, Saturday, August 26th. With a rain date: Sunday August 27.

The sequel to the movie show last year is queued for viewing this time!

#shopFranklin Family Movie Night on the Town Common - Aug 26

Hold the date, additional details will be forth coming.  (Event will likely start around 7 or so with the movie to begin at dark about 9 or so)