An Update from Your Congressman Jake Auchincloss - May 6

LAST 2 WEEKS IN REVIEW APRIL 25 - MAY 6 I'm your representative in Congress, and I write to keep you informed. Eid Mubarak! I hope this Eid brought joy to all those who celebrated last week. On the Hill Protecting a Woman's Right to Choose: The Supreme Court's leaked draft decision to overturn Roe v. Wade is at the top of everyone's mind. Pending a final ruling from the Supreme Court, abortion is still legal federally and in Massachusetts. If the draft decision is affirmed, abortion will remain legal in Massachusetts. Abortion funds, clinics, and support networks are here to help you. Do not cancel your appointments and if you need care, please reach out to a provider immediately. I am committed to protecting access to safe and legal abortions because reproductive health care is a human right. Decisions related to terminating a pregnancy lie solely with a woman and her doctor. Congress must protect abortion access by codifying Roe v. Wade because, regardless of the final ruling, we know that the Supreme Court can't be relied upon to uphold Roe. I was an original cosponsor of the Women's Health Protection Act, which would make the Roe v. Wade decision federal law and protect abortion access. I joined my colleagues in passing this bill in the House to defend a woman's right to choose, and I urge the Senate to do the same. In addition, I support abolishing the filibuster to secure the votes to protect abortion rights in the Senate. I will continue working with my colleagues to protect access to abortion. Make your voice heard → Legislation to codify Roe v. Wade will face challenges from Senate Republicans, which is highly likely to prevent passage due to the Senate's filibuster rule. I'd like to hear from you: Do you think we should abolish the filibuster? Around the Fourth South Coast Rail: I toured future stations on the South Coast Rail in Fall River and Freetown. South Coast Rail will offer reliable transit between southeastern Massachusetts and Boston. Phase 1 of the project, which will be completed in late 2023, will connect residents of Fall River, Taunton, and New Bedford to jobs and services, spurring economic development. I am excited that Taunton, Fall River, and New Bedford will finally have commuter rail access to Boston, after being the only three major cities within 50 miles of Boston not to. Phase 2 of the project will take an important step toward electrifying the commuter rail in Massachusetts. Electrifying the commuter rail is a critical component of the transition to a clean energy economy. That is why one of my top priorities is securing phase two funding for this project through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Supporting Small Businesses: Yesterday, I attended the 2022 National Small Business Association of Massachusetts Awards Ceremony. After two challenging years for local businesses, there is no better time than now to celebrate small business owners across the Bay State. Throughout the pandemic, small businesses found new and innovative ways to meet the needs of their customers and to show up for their communities. Sincerely, Jake WASHINGTON 15 Independence Avenue SE 1524 Longworth HOB Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-5931 NEWTON 29 Crafts Street Suite 375 Newton, MA 02458 Phone: (617) 332-3333 ATTLEBORO 8 North Main Steet Suite 200 Attleboro, MA 02703 Phone: (508) 431-1110

Town Council hears from Congressman Auchincloss, can't decide on parking fines, is impatient with DT progress, among items at May 4 session

FM #790 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 790 in the series. 

This session shares part of the Franklin, MA Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, May 4, 2022. 

The meeting was conducted in a hybrid format: members of the Town Council and Town Administration personnel were in the Council Chambers, some members of the public participated in person, some via the Zoom conference bridge, all to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

Quick recap:

• Recognition of Harriet DiMartino on her 100th birthday

• Compliance check failures continued from prior meeting; both 7-Eleven & Liquor World acknowledged and accepted violations, agreed to one day suspension of license effective May 11

• Public hearing for street acceptances held, both ultimately passed via legislation with 8-0 vote (1 absent)

• Congressman Jake Auchincloss, 4th Congressional District, appeared to provide multiple updates and answer questions from the Council and meeting participants. First Federal elected official to appear before Council

• Melanson & Heath presented an overview of the just completed FY 2021 audit results; the results are good, no issues found, nor was a management letter included also a good sign that the financial processes are in good order

• Bylaw to adjust parking fines tabled for 2nd meeting in June, more discussion clearly required on this topic. As reported, there was no consensus among the EDC which brought it forward and there remains no consensus on how to proceed

• Second bylaw parking zone map proposed changes to add a ban on overnight parking downtown. Almost got tied to the other bylaw item (they are separate but related) but did get moved to a second reading

• Update on Davis Thayer provided by Town Administrator. The building is still in School Committee control, confirmation received from MSBA on their awareness of closing and that the closing should have no impact if the Town does decide in future to go for MSBA funding. Not sure why the Council remains “impatient” with this status as they could have started their planning process to determine a future use anytime after the building actually closed. The School District is not using the building for education, another use can start to be determined, it will take time to do so, and likely be still not finally decided by the time the School Committee turns the building over legally to the Town

The recording runs about 3 hours and 35 minutes (3:35)

The show notes contain links to the meeting agenda. Let’s listen to the Town Council meeting of May 4, 2022

Audio file -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-790-town-council-meeting-05-04-22

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Agenda document ->  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/town_council_agenda_may_4_2022.pdf

My notes of the meeting captured via Twitter are shared in one PDF here. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fMWY7GtMKVFxIC_v1UtFIWXE7iIrLK4a/view?usp=sharing

You can find the Franklin TV video link here -> https://youtu.be/eTzFFC_N9ds (the meeting starts at 2:50)

Photos from this session can be found in one album ->   https://photos.app.goo.gl/RfP17XvuTeDNCLwk6

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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 www.Franklinmatters.org   or www.franklin.news 

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"

Congressman Auchincloss poses with Town Council, Town Administrator, and Town Clerk

Town Council Meeting May 4, 2022 (video)

The Town Council met on Wednesday May 4, 2022. The video broadcast via YouTube is available for replay on the new Franklin TV channel as announced earlier this week.

My notes of the meeting captured via Twitter are shared in one PDF here. My summary and the audio of the meeting will be shared within a couple of days.  https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fMWY7GtMKVFxIC_v1UtFIWXE7iIrLK4a/view?usp=sharing

You can find the video link here -> https://youtu.be/eTzFFC_N9ds (the meeting starts at 2:50)

An Update from Your 4th District Congressman - Jake Auchincloss

LAST 2 WEEKS IN REVIEW APRIL 9 – APRIL 22 I'm your representative in Congress, and I write to keep you informed. On the Hill: I was recently sanctioned by Russian President Vladimir Putin for my ardent support of Ukraine. Also, I am requesting funding to support innovation in our nation's transportation and infrastructure. Make your voice heard → I noticed on my recent flights between Massachusetts and Washington that about 50% of people are wearing masks. While the administration is challenging the ruling in order to prevent a precedent that undermines the CDC's public health authority, I don't expect it to imminently restart mask mandates on airlines. I'd like to hear from you: let me know below how you will approach mask-wearing on airplanes and public transportation. Around the Fourth: Last week, I attended the Boston Marathon. For Earth Day, I participated in a community clean-up event in Fall River and met with environmental youth leaders in Newton. On the Hill Sanctioned by Putin: Last week, President Putin sanctioned me. Whatever I did to anger the Russian president, good. My advocacy for the people of Ukraine is not about me; this work is about Ukrainians fighting on the front lines of the free world. In Congress, we must continue to take concrete actions to support Ukrainians and isolate and undermine Russia. My singular mission is to provide Ukraine with the tools they need for victory, and nothing could throw a wrench into my work. You can watch my full interview about the sanctions here. Investing in U.S. Transportation and Infrastructure: I am requesting $15 million to fund the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Infrastructure for Fiscal Year 2023. This new agency will spur innovation within the transportation and infrastructure sectors. This will make our roads safer for all modalities, reduce maintenance costs for taxpayers, and mitigate carbon emissions. The $15 million in initial funding will provide full planning resources for the Department of Transportation to create a five-year strategic plan for the agency, develop an organizational structure, scope potential NOFOs, and solicit ideas from the public. Will you continue to wear a mask when you travel? Around the Fourth Boston Marathon: I celebrated Patriots' Day at the Boston Marathon starting line in Hopkinton. The Marathon represents the strength, unity, and resilience of the people of Massachusetts, and I was proud to watch countless runners embark on this accomplishment, including Team Hoyt. Team Hoyt raises money and awareness for children with disabilities. Earth Day: To celebrate Earth Day, I participated in a clean-up in Fall River and joined a meeting with youth leaders from Green Newton. From attending local clean-ups to using your voice to advocate for change, we can make our community a better place when we come together for a common goal. As the father of two young kids, I am working to leave them a better environment and a healthier planet. Sincerely, Jake WASHINGTON 15 Independence Avenue SE 1524 Longworth HOB Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-5931 NEWTON 29 Crafts Street Suite 375 Newton, MA 02458 Phone: (617) 332-3333 ATTLEBORO 8 North Main Steet Suite 200 Attleboro, MA 02703 Phone: (508) 431-1110

Jake Auchincloss: An Update from Your Congressman

Hello, I'm your representative in Congress, and I write to keep you informed. Since I last wrote, I've worked to continue our global progress against COVID-19, hold China accountable, and advocate for our District's priorities. The Global Race Between Vaccinations and Variants One of my top priorities in Congress is protecting the health and safety of my constituents. That means getting as many people vaccinated as possible – here and around the world. The House of Representatives recently passed a $1.5 trillion omnibus spending bill that would fund the government through Fiscal Year (FY) 2022. Recognizing the ongoing impact of COVID-19, this package initially included $15 billion to prepare for and prevent future variants. As a Co-Chair of the Global Vaccination Caucus, I worked hard to secure this funding; however, this critical funding was removed from the budget before it passed. I vocally opposed the removal of this funding. To move forward, I support the passage of standalone legislation that would fund the procurement of antiviral medication, as well as research at the NIH to develop vaccines that protect against future variants. This legislation must include funding for Global VAX, an initiative to increase global vaccination rates. I have been a strong proponent of funding global vaccinations and will continue to be as Congress works on finalizing this funding. I introduced a Marshall Plan to commit American financial and technical resources toward this purpose. I have also stood with my fellow co-chairs of the Global Vaccination Caucus to support $5 billion in funding to vaccinate the world. Holding China Accountable for its Support of Russia Globally, we must blockade Russian energy exports to hold them accountable for their invasion of Ukraine. Oil, gas, and coal provide hundreds of billions of dollars to fund Putin's barbaric war machine. And yet, China continues to insist that its friendship with the Kremlin knows no limits. China is on the wrong side of history. I believe that China must enforce a blockade or face significant consequences. I have strongly supported efforts to weaken Russia's economy and hold Putin accountable, including by voting to pass bills that would impose an embargo on Russian oil and end the United States' permanent normal trade relations with Russia. Advocating for the Fourth District Last week, I stood with the district and voted against a provision in the Coast Guard Reauthorization Act that could cost thousands of offshore wind jobs in Massachusetts and set back our nation's transition toward clean energy. Our district and our state are uniquely positioned to lead in offshore wind development, with the South Coast seeing massive potential from the industry. Offshore wind presents an opportunity to propel job growth and economic development, while charting a sustainable path forward. As a result of my advocacy alongside Rep. Bill Keating, the Chairman of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee committed to working to ensure offshore wind jobs and development are not negatively impacted in the final version of the bill. I also joined my constituents in standing in solidarity with the people of Ukraine. We must continue to show up for as long as this crisis demands. We must be committed for the long haul to protecting and rebuilding a strong, sovereign, prosperous, and democratic Ukraine. To stay up to date on the state of play in Congress, please make sure to like my Facebook page, follow me on Twitter, and follow me on Instagram. Sincerely, Jake Auchincloss Member of Congress OFFICE LOCATIONS WASHINGTON DC OFFICE • 1524 Longworth House Office Building • Washington, DC 20515 • Phone: (202) 255-5931 NEWTON DISTRICT OFFICE • 29 Crafts Street Suite 375 • Newton, MA 02458 • Phone : (617) 332-3333 ATTLEBORO DISTRICT OFFICE • 8 N. Main St. Suite 200 • Attleboro, MA 02703 • Phone : (508) 431-1110   WEBSITE  | |  CONTACT Click Here to view this email in your browser  (Note this link is broken and has been reported)

An Update from Your Congressman Jake Auchincloss - 3/25/22

Hello, I'm your representative in Congress, and I write to keep you informed. I want to share with you significant developments since I last wrote, as well as three town halls I'll be hosting this weekend around the District. Investments in Our District The annual appropriations package, which President Biden recently signed into law, included $16.2 million for ten community projects across our Congressional District. These investments will improve public health and foster economic development across the Massachusetts Fourth. From a cleaner water supply to support for domestic violence survivors, this funding makes an immediate and monumental impact on our communities. The details of the 10 projects can be found here. You can watch my floor speech about securing funding for these projects here. We are now beginning the next year's (fiscal year 2023) budget cycle, and I will have the opportunity to advocate for direct funding for 15 community projects across the district. I am engaging a diversity of stakeholders in selecting these projects to solicit a wide array of ideas. If you would like to participate in our process of selecting governmental or non-profit entities for direct funding, please complete this form by Monday, April 11, at 11:59pm. My office will review all submissions, though we cannot guarantee the inclusion of requests. I look forward to working with constituents of MA-04 to determine how I can best advocate for our district.  Supporting the Ukrainian People As Russia continues to wage its unjustified and unconscionable war, I am working with my colleagues to support the people of Ukraine. I, along with Representatives Seth Moulton, Mike Gallagher, and Peter Meijer, introduced the Yachts for Ukraine Act. This bill would allow Russian-seized assets to be repurposed to rebuild Ukraine following Russian attacks. The value of the Russian oligarchs' assets that could be seized as a result of this legislation is in the billions of dollars. The Yachts for Ukraine Act would ensure these assets are permanently reallocated to humanitarian assistance and reconstruction efforts in Ukraine. With this legislation, our message is simple: if you're an oligarch, we're coming for your assets, wherever you have them hidden. If you're in Ukraine fighting on the frontlines of democracy, more help is on the way. As your Representative, I will continue to work to support our allies in Ukraine and hold the Russian aggressors to account.   Visiting Local Businesses & Non-profits Recently, I toured the Amazon Fulfillment Center. This is the largest fulfillment center in Massachusetts — employing about 1,200 people in the region. I loved meeting with the staff and seeing how our Amazon orders go from a "click" to a delivery. I also visited the Children's Museum of Greater Fall River with Representative Carole Fiola and Jo-Anne Sbrega, the museum's executive director. This museum brings joy to kids across the Fourth District, as it successfully combines educational opportunities with engaging playtime. Closing out this week I visited the Manet Community Health Center Satellite Clinic in Attleboro and the Attleboro New Hope New Domestic Violence Shelter to discuss recently secured funding and the crucial care they are providing in our district.  Town Halls This weekend, I'll be hosting a series of three in-person town halls. This is an opportunity for you to come meet me, ask about issues important to you, and get updates on what I'm doing to serve our community. Members of my team will also be on hand to connect you with casework services in our office. Details about the town halls are below, I hope you'll be able to join me. If you're able to attend, please RSVP with the relevant link below. Mansfield, Foxborough, Norton Town Hall Meeting: Saturday, March 26th at 12:00 PM Mansfield Town Hall 6 Park Row, Mansfield, 02048 RSVP Here Taunton Town Hall Meeting: Saturday, March 26th at 2:00 PM Taunton City Hall 15 Summer Street, Taunton, 02780 City Council Chambers RSVP Here   Needham Town Hall Meeting: Sunday, March 27th at 4:00 PM Needham Town Hall 1471 Highland Ave, Needham, 02492 Powers Hall RSVP Here   To stay up to date on the state of play in Congress, please make sure to like my Facebook page, follow me on Twitter, and follow me on Instagram.   Sincerely, Jake Auchincloss Member of Congress OFFICE LOCATIONS WASHINGTON DC OFFICE • 1524 Longworth House Office Building • Washington, DC 20515 • Phone: (202) 255-5931 NEWTON DISTRICT OFFICE • 29 Crafts Street Suite 375 • Newton, MA 02458 • Phone : (617) 332-3333 ATTLEBORO DISTRICT OFFICE • 8 N. Main St. Suite 200 • Attleboro, MA 02703 • Phone : (508) 431-1110   WEBSITE  |  CONTACT Click Here to view this email in your browser

An Update from Your Congressman Jake Auchincloss on "three significant developments"

Hello, I'm your representative in Congress, and I write to keep you informed. I want to share with you three significant developments since I last wrote.  State of the Union Address  Last week, I attended President Biden's State of the Union address. President Biden laid out a hopeful message about putting the COVID-19 pandemic behind us, building a stronger economy, and protecting democracy at home and abroad. This speech was a clarion call that the free world is going to rally behind the Ukrainian people. Ukraine is not alone in their fight against totalitarianism and unprovoked aggression.  If you are interested in learning what a day in the life of a congressman looks like during the State of the Union, you can watch my recent video. Recent Developments Regarding Ukraine  As we watch tragedy unfold in Ukraine, I am in awe of the resilience of the Ukrainian people. Despite the overwhelming size of the Russian military, the Ukrainians are fighters, courageously defending their homeland. I joined many of you in Attleboro to stand in solidarity with Ukraine.  I voted to support legislation to deliver military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine, but our assistance must go further. We had a saying in the Marine Corps, "everyone has a plan until you get punched in the face." Putin has taken body blows through sanctions, but he hasn't yet been punched in the face. An internationally coordinated ban on Russian oil, with greater lethal & civil support for Ukraine, packs the punch that President Putin deserves. I urge our allies to join us. While backfilling Russian oil in the short term, we must use the oil embargo as an opportunity to further invest in the clean energy sector. Not only is clean energy the fastest growing job sector in the United States and good for our planet, it can provide us with energy independence. We recently passed the America COMPETES Act in the House of Representatives. This bill would help build a resilient and efficient electrical grid, and provide funding for clean energy research. Additionally, the House just passed government funding legislation that includes over $14 billion of investments into clean energy and science to develop and implement clean, affordable, and reliable American energy. With energy independence, we can protect our economy, as well as our strategic interests. Addressing the Youth Mental Health Crisis I have only been a congressman for one year and a parent for two, but I am committed for the long haul to improving children's socioemotional wellbeing. It is a special responsibility I have as the youngest parent in the House Democratic caucus. In a recent op-ed, I put forth suggestions for tackling the youth mental health crisis. We should keep our schools open and functioning normally, provide kids with richer context and more agency, and expand youth services. This week, I hosted a Facebook Live with Bridge Over Troubled Waters' Elisabeth Jackson, CEO, and Peter Ducharme, Director of Clinical Services. Bridge Over Troubled Waters is a Boston-based agency providing needed services for homeless, runaway, and at-risk youth. The agency offers a variety of programs, from career development to emergency residence and street outreach. Ms. Jackson and Mr. Ducharme emphasized the importance of expanding youth services. Too often, there are not enough resources or providers to support youth in crisis. In Congress, I will work to increase these vital services. To stay up to date on the state of play in Congress, please make sure to like my Facebook page, follow me on Twitter, and follow me on Instagram. Sincerely, Jake Auchincloss Member of Congress OFFICE LOCATIONS WASHINGTON DC OFFICE • 1524 Longworth House Office Building • Washington, DC 20515 • Phone: (202) 255-5931 NEWTON DISTRICT OFFICE • 29 Crafts Street Suite 375 • Newton, MA 02458 • Phone : (617) 332-3333 ATTLEBORO DISTRICT OFFICE • 8 N. Main St. Suite 200 • Attleboro, MA 02703 • Phone : (508) 431-1110   WEBSITE  |   CONTACT

An Update from Your Congressman Jake Auchincloss

Hello, I'm your representative in Congress, and I write to keep you informed. I want to share with you three significant developments since I last wrote.  Championing Gun Safety and Passing the COMPETEs Act  Following Gun Violence Survivors Week and ahead of the anniversary of the Parkland shooting, I became an original co-sponsor of two gun safety measures introduced in the House. The first, introduced by Congressman Andy Levin (D, MI-09), is the Protect Children Through Safe Gun Ownership Act, which will reduce the number of preventable firearm tragedies among children and teens. You can watch a press conference announcing the introduction of the bill HERE. I also became an original co-sponsor of the Trafficking Reduction and Criminal Enforcement (TRACE) Act, led by Congressman Mike Quigley (D, IL-05). This bill will help the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) reduce illegal firearms trafficking and make it harder for criminals to obtain deadly weapons. In addition to advocating for gun safety, the House of Representatives passed the America COMPETES Act of 2022, a generational investment in our economy, and our young and growing workforce. This legislation will build resilient supply chains, drive worker productivity by investing in research and development, and reinforce US global leadership in science and technology. I introduced a series of amendments to America COMPETES, all of which have passed as part of the bill. These amendments counteract vaccine disinformation from the Chinese Communist Party. They boost production of vaccine components to strengthen America's vaccine diplomacy, which I have advocated for and led on over the last year. And they contribute to economic development and humanitarian relief in Afghanistan, where we have a special responsibility to the Afghan people. You can hear more about my amendments HERE.  Recent Developments in Ukraine  Amid recent developments in Ukraine, I released a statement ahead of President Biden's meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Schol. Great nations keep their word. We must stand behind our promise to Ukraine to support its security as a sovereign nation. As the Administration continues to pursue a resolution through diplomacy, I remain committed in Congress to supporting democracies and standing with our NATO allies. This is a pivotal moment that requires a united front, or we risk the beginning of an era rife with conflict and tyranny. We must work towards a resolution that ensures our allies' safety, sovereignty, and democratic longevity.  At home in the district, I was able to host a listening session with Olga Lisovskaya, Vsevolod Petriv, Andrew Nynka, Tymish Holowinsky, Anna Lyczmanenko, Orest Hrabowych, and Walter Shuludko, local residents from the Ukrainian community who shared with me their thoughts on the issues facing Ukraine. I also participated in a press conference on Capitol Hill following a classified briefing with Administration officials. I will continue to engage on this issue as the situation develops. You can watch my latest interview on Ukraine - a conversation with Jim Braude on Greater Boston HERE.   Recent Stops in the District  I recently visited HUB Folding Box Company and CMT - Engineered Syntactic Systems, two 4th District businesses that represent some of the best of American manufacturing and innovation. We discussed the recently passed COMPETES Act and how making transformational investments in American manufacturing, research, and innovation will ensure that the next creators and innovators have the tools they need to succeed. I also had the pleasure of attending a Lunar New Year celebration at Newton's New Art Center, with New Art Executive Director Emily O'Neil, before heading to the Brookline Library to pick up a Lunar Year craft kit to take home to my family. During my visit, I spoke with state Rep. Tommy Vitolo, Brookline Select Board Chair Heather Hamilton, and library trustee Michael Burstein. Finally, I wanted to leave you with a video of my recent floor speech celebrating the career of Tom Brady, who brought pride and six Super Bowl victories to our district and to the fans of New England.  To stay up to date on the state of play in Congress, please make sure to like my Facebook page, follow me on Twitter, and follow me on Instagram.  Sincerely, Jake Auchincloss Member of Congress OFFICE LOCATIONS WASHINGTON DC OFFICE • 1524 Longworth House Office Building • Washington, DC 20515 • Phone: (202) 255-5931 NEWTON DISTRICT OFFICE • 29 Crafts Street Suite 375 • Newton, MA 02458 • Phone : (617) 332-3333 ATTLEBORO DISTRICT OFFICE • 8 N. Main St. Suite 200 • Attleboro, MA 02703 • Phone : (508) 431-1110   Click Here to view this email in your browser