Saturday Ski Trip Planned - March 2, 2019

Calling it a “great holiday gift for the family”, Lifelong Community Learning has announced a March 2 ski trip to Bretton Woods, NH. Participants will enjoy a day on the slopes without thinking about the driving. 

Transportation will be provided by a chartered motor coach departing Franklin High School parking lot at 5:30 AM and will depart Bretton Woods at 4:30 PM to return home. Individuals under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

For more information, and to register, go online www.FranklinLifelongLearning.com and click on Community Learning-Special Events. You can also call Lifelong Community Learning at 508-613-1480.

ABOUT US: Lifelong Community Learning is a program of the Franklin Public Schools Lifelong Learning Institute, dedicated to providing diverse and enriched education and experiences for all area residents and children – a resource for all ages.


NOTE: If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Brenda Reed at 508-613-1483 or email at reedb@franklinps.net.

Saturday Ski Trip Planned - March 2, 2019

"The teamwork and dedication is unbelievable for these young boys"

From a proud Franklin mother:

"My son Jack Murphy, grade 6 Horace Mann Middle School, is playing for the MASS ELITE FOOTBALL TEAM 6th Grade team. This past weekend all three teams 6, 7, and 8th grade won the Northeast Region and are heading to Naples, Florida on Dec 15 to play against teams from each region across the country for the National Title. Jack will be representing Franklin. 

He currently plays for our youth program here in town and has since he was 7. MASS ELITE had tryouts in November and for the 6th grade level they had close to 100 kids tryout out and only 32 made it. 

The kids that make up the MASS ELITE team are the best of the best in our state and are not just athletes but great students as well. Their practice schedule is weekly on school nights and these kids still manage to maintain their grades. 

I thought with all the negative that surrounds tackle football and the fact that our numbers are dwindling fast here in Franklin, maybe a article to show all the positives that come out of football as well. 

Many of these boys that play for MASS ELITE go off to D1 schools with full scholarships, these boys are from all over and none of them knew one another, but yet have meshed, bonded, and played as a team from the start. The teamwork and dedication is unbelievable for these young boys."

The 7th grade photo was tagged as such, the 8th graders are the older youth, so by process of elimination, this should be the 6th grade team

"The teamwork and dedication is unbelievable for these young boys"

Music of the Promise - Dec 15 - 5:30 PM

Join us for an evening of songs, carols, and worship for Advent. 

This FREE EVENT features musical selections from Andrew Peterson's "Behold The Lamb of God," as well as other songs and carols to prepare us for the Incarnation!

Come early at 5:30 PM for a Dessert Reception. The Program begins at 6:30 PM. An Offering will be taken to benefit the St. Vincent de Paul Society of Franklin. All are welcome!



Hosted by:
Anglican Church of the Redeemer, Franklin MA
31 Hayward St, Franklin, Massachusetts 02038

Music of the Promise - Dec 15 - 5:30 PM

Follow the Facebook event  https://www.facebook.com/events/1051863218318419/

“One in three people that try nicotine products will become addicted”

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

"A local petition calls for the town Board of Health to institute a policy in which the sale of flavored tobacco and nicotine products be restricted to so-called “vape” stores that only those 21 and older can enter. 

The petition, started by Westwood-Mansfield Pediatric Associates, seeks 200 signatures, although it is non-binding. Health board members discussed the topic during regularly scheduled meeting on Wednesday. 

“We have always been working for the greater cause,” said Chairman Donald Ranieri. “As usual, our priority is the health of the people in the town of Franklin. That’s why we’re here.” 

Currently, flavored tobacco and nicotine products are also sold at several convenience stores and gas stations in town. Owners either failed to respond or declined to comment on queries made by a Daily News reporter on the subject."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20181206/franklin-petition-takes-aim-at-flavored-tobacco


The text of the petition at Change.org created by Dr. Lester Hartman, Westwood-Mansfield Pediatrics:

"As parents of children in the Town of Franklin, we insist that our Board of Health restrict flavored nicotine and tobacco products immediately, only allowing their sale in smoke and vape shops that are 21+ to enter. We do not want our children exposed to these dangerous and addictive products when they go into our local convenience stores. 

Across the state, 136 Boards of Health covering over 59% of the State's population have signed onto this flavored nicotine and tobacco restriction. 

Given the current nicotine addiction epidemic in our middle and high schools, it is this Board's duty to look out for our children and attempt to remedy this situation."

https://www.change.org/p/franklin-board-of-health-town-of-franklin-restrict-the-sale-of-flavored-nicotine-products-to-smoke-vape-shops

“One in three people that try nicotine products will become addicted”

Sensory Friendly Santa Claus - Dec 8

Visiting Santa Claus can be a very overwhelming experience for children, particularly those with Special Needs. 

This year, Franklin SEPAC is inviting families to visit Santa in a sensory friendly environment...no long lines or waiting, no crowds or noisy store and a Santa who understands!! 

Bring your camera to take as many pictures as you would like. Our SEPAC elves will be on hand to take family photos as well.

Saturday, December 8, 12-4

A quiet room downstairs in Cole's Tavern, Franklin MA

This event is free! Sign up for a time to have your own private meeting with the big guy by clicking on the following link!

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0a45adab2fa2f58-sensory

Sensory Friendly Santa Claus - Dec 8

For more information about the Franklin SEPAC group  http://franklinsepac.org/

FTC: No support for diabetes treatment claims

FTC: No support for diabetes treatment claims by Colleen Tressler Consumer Education Specialist, FTC People spend billions of dollars a year on health products that are unproven and often useless.  Case in point: The FTC has sued the sellers of "Nobetes" about their advertising claims for a pill that would supposedly treat diabetes – and maybe even replace the need for prescription diabetes medication, like insulin.  According to the FTC, these claims were false or misleading, and the sellers had no reliable, scientific evidence to back them up. Read more https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2018/12/ftc-no-support-diabetes-treatment-claims?utm_source=govdelivery This is a free service provided by the Federal Trade Commission.

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Video teaser for FPAC's Humbug!

A family favorite since debuting as part of FPAC's 2008 season, Humbug! is an original musical retelling of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, starring the script's writer, Nick Paone, as Ebenezer Scrooge. 

With musical hits of every genre and live accompaniment by a 10-piece band of professional musicians, Humbug! transports audiences from Dickensian England to contemporary America as the novel's iconic characters and storyline are cleverly reimagined with modern setting and dialogue. 

Humbug! delivers a holiday gift of hilarity with a timely – and timeless – message!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5PrwKDDWftM



For tickets and more information, visit www.fpaconline.com or call the box office at 508-528-3370

Tri-County Regional Inducts 29 Students into National Honor Society

Twenty-nine students were inducted into the Peter Rickard Chapter of the National Honor Society during a ceremony held on Thursday, November 29th.

The National Honor Society (NHS) is our nation’s premier organization established to recognize outstanding high school students. More than just an honor roll, NHS serves to honor students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Character. Induction in the National Honor Society is one of the highest honors given to a student by the faculty of Tri-County.

The ceremony was presided over by NHS officers Katie Udell of Medway, President; Ashley Barry of North Attleboro, Vice President; Adrianna Celeste of North Attleboro, Secretary; and Corinne Blasetti of North Attleboro, Treasurer. Current members of the Tri-County National Honor Society were on-hand along with family members of the inductees and school personnel; with NHS President, Katie Udell, acting as the Master of Ceremonies.

During the ceremony, retired Vocational Director, Jean George, was the guest speaker. Jean addressed the inductees encouraging them to be leaders in supporting members of the community who are isolated and in need.

This year’s Class of 2019 Inductees include:

• Sabrina Howarth of Seekonk
• Emily Jutras of Wrentham
• Evan Langille of North Attleboro
• Savanh Monteiro of North Attleboro
• John Winship of North Attleboro
• Shannon Zogalis of North Attleboro

The Class of 2020 Inductees are:

• Nancy Arloo of North Attleboro
• Kayla Cantara of North Attleboro
• Hannah Davis of Franklin
• Kiara Dempsey of North Attleboro
• Katharine Dion of North Attleboro
• Jitarra Ellis of Franklin
• Carmela Galon of Bellingham
• Jack George of North Attleboro
• Rebecca Grome of Franklin
• Madison Horlbogen of Seekonk
• Julia Hutchinson of North Attleboro
• Jena Johnson of North Attleboro
• Colby Jones of Millis
• Jacob Lipson of Franklin
• Sophie Manocchio of Franklin
• Ashala McLean of Plainville
• Catarina Oliveira of Seekonk
• Joshua Plante of North Attleboro
• Courtney Rainone of Plainville
• Madison Silva of Seekonk
• Taylor Tremblay of Franklin
• Brooke Weber of North Attleboro
• Jenna Yakimowsky of Attleboro

Current members of the organization from the Class of 2019 include:

• Caroline Aspinwall of Walpole
• Christina Brousseau of North Attleboro
• Alina Coffey of Medway
• Kaitlyn Jones of Plainville
• Gabriella Mills of North Attleboro
• Elizabeth Naff of Franklin
• Emily Pion of Attleboro
• Jillian Plante of North Attleboro
• Pamella Reis of Franklin
• Kasandra Rempelakis of Millis

Named after former Tri-County Principal Peter Rickard, the Tri-County RVTHS chapter of the National Honor Society requires that qualifying students maintain a GPA of 3.85 or higher and have a proven track record of leadership and volunteerism. Students must also submit three letters of recommendation with a personal statement to the Faculty Council for approval by majority vote.

Tri-County RVTHS, located at 147 Pond Street in Franklin, is a recipient of the High Schools That Work Gold Achievement Award and serves the communities of Franklin, Medfield, Medway, Millis, Norfolk, North Attleboro, Plainville, Seekonk, Sherborn, Walpole, and Wrentham.

Tri-County Regional Inducts 29 Students into National Honor Society

“It has brought a lot of joy to our members”

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

"In the lobby of the Senior Center lies a realm where snow is made of coconut shavings and roofs are constructed of gingerbread, graham crackers and gumdrops. 

Though it’s far from the North Pole, the spirit of the winter holidays resonates with one chef at the facility. 

Paul Ledwith’s first gingerbread creation is being appreciated by everyone who enters the building – an exact replica of the Senior Center, made of sugar. 

Senior Center Director Karen Alves said residents have adored since it showed up in the center’s lobby."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20181205/chef-creates-sweet-depiction-of-franklin-senior-center

The Franklin Senior Center in gingerbread. via @wknorman Twitter

Find out what is happening at the Senior Center all month:

http://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/uploads/dec18connection.pdf

Franklin Senior Center Newsletter - December 2018

MassBudget: Many Massachusetts youth await spots in after-school programs

December 4, 2018 Many Massachusetts youth await spots in after-school programs Meaningful activities outside of and after the school day can go far in boosting a child's educational achievement and life outcomes. But many Massachusetts youth that need after-school and summer programs are not able to get into one. Thousands of high-needs youth (those who are economically disadvantaged, English language learners, or special education students) in Massachusetts lack public support for after-school programs, according to a new Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center (MassBudget) report, Investment in After-School and Summer Learning in Massachusetts: Current Funding and Unmet Need.   Not all communities and families have the resources to provide enrichment activities to young people. In 2011, the highest-income families across the country were able to spend almost seven times more on out-of-school opportunities than the lowest-income families. The MassBudget report examines federal and state funding for after-school and summer programs. In the 2016-2017 school year, public entities provided more than $207 million, after adjusting for inflation, for after-school programs. Despite these efforts, children with the greatest needs often lack opportunities to participate in such programs. Read the full report http://massbudget.org/report_window.php?loc=Investment-in-After-School-and-Summer-Learning.html. The Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center (MassBudget) produces policy research, analysis, and data-driven recommendations focused on improving the lives of low- and middle-income children and adults, strengthening our state's economy, and enhancing the quality of life in Massachusetts. MASSACHUSETTS BUDGET AND POLICY CENTER 15 COURT SQUARE, SUITE 700 BOSTON, MA 02108

Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center, 15 Court Square, Suite 700, Boston, MA 02108 Sent by mrivera@massbudget.org in collaboration with Try it free today

Consumer Alerts: The Marriott data breach

The Marriott data breach by Seena Gressin Attorney, Division of Consumer and Business Education, FTC Marriott International says that a breach of its Starwood guest reservation database exposed the personal information of up to 500 million people. If your information was exposed, there are steps you can take to help guard against its misuse. Read more  https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2018/12/marriott-data-breach?utm_source=govdelivery This is a free service provided by the Federal Trade Commission.

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Franklin's Neighbor Brigade is ready to help!

"Welcome to the Franklin chapter of Neighbor Brigade! Our chapter was formed in April 2012. Whether you are seeking assistance or looking to provide help to another, you’ve come to the right place. Our volunteer chapter leaders donate time to coordinate the needs of families in crisis with the volunteers who want to help. Read on to learn more about their passion for Neighbor Brigade, and help us spread the word! We are always looking to expand our presence here in Franklin among volunteers and potential recipients alike. 

Neighbor Brigade establishes community-specific networks of volunteers that can be mobilized to help residents facing sudden crisis manage day-to-day tasks such as meal preparation, rides, and basic household chores. Our chapter is just one of 29 chapters helping their neighbors in crisis! To learn more about us and our other chapters, please visit our home page here."

Franklin Neighbor Brigade

"If you, your family or someone you know is experiencing a temporary crisis due to an illness, surgery, cancer, accident, fire, death or other life event, our network of volunteers may be able to provide temporary, non-monetary assistance with some of your day-to-day needs. 

Some of the services volunteers have provided in the past include meal deliver, dog walks, rides to doctor's appointments, help with errands, friendly visits, and light household needs. 

To request services, fill out our Client Application or call 1-855-241-4357. Neighbor Brigade should contact you within 24 hours."

Request services: http://bttr.im/klacf

Volunteer: http://bttr.im/g1jar

Franklin's Neighbor Brigade is ready to help!

Visit the Franklin Neighbor Brigade
https://app.betterimpact.com/PublicOrganization/d344e590-7541-488a-8594-34b5f451db96/1

Conservation Commission - Public Notices for Dec 6 meeting

Pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws Ch. 131, s.40 (The Wetlands Act) a Public Hearing will be held on Thursday, December 6, 2018, at 7:10 PM in Rm. 205 of the Franklin Municipal Building, 355 East Central Street, Franklin, MA on a Notice of Intent filed by Franklin Country Club of Franklin, MA for removal of an underground fuel storage tank and construction of a rinse area for mowing equipment in the buffer zone of bordering vegetated wetlands.

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/franklin_country_club_0.pdf

Pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws Ch. 131, s.40 (The Wetlands Act) a Public Hearing will be held on Thursday, December 6, 2018, at 7:15 PM in Rm. 205 of the Franklin Municipal Building, 355 East Central Street, Franklin, MA on an Amendment Request to Orders of Conditions filed by Franklin Department of Public Works for pumping station improvements in the buffer zone of bordering vegetated wetlands.

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/well_station_no._3.pdf

Pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws Ch. 131, s.40 (The Wetlands Act) a Public Hearing will be held on Thursday, December 6, 2018, at 7:20 PM in Rm. 205 of the Franklin Municipal Building, 355 East Central Street, Franklin, MA on a Notice of Intent filed by Spruce Pond Village Association of Franklin, MA for an aquatic management program in the buffer zone of bordering vegetated wetlands.

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/spruce_pond_aquatic_mgmt.pdf

Spruce Pond on a sunny day in November 2018

"When we show love and respect for each other we make the world a better place”

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

"With the first candle on the Town Common menorah lit, residents celebrated the first night of Hanukkah on Sunday evening. 

Close to 30 people headed downtown to celebrate in song and dance with Chabad Rabbi Mendy Kivman and his family. 

Kivman, who works at the Chabad House Jewish Community Center in Milford, said the meaning behind the first night of Hanukkah is to show the world that one little light has the power to rid the world of darkness. 

“One candle can push away a lot of darkness,” he said."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20181203/franklin-celebrates-first-night-of-hanukkah

Town Common menorah

"report any observations of eagles that are suspected or known to have nests"

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

"The number of bald eagles nesting in Massachusetts appears to be steadily growing amid three decades of efforts to re-establish a natural population of the nation’s animal here. 

State wildlife officials announced last week that they identified 76 territorial pairs of bald eagles this nesting season, up from 68 pairs last year and the 59 pairs counted in 2016. 

From those 76 nests this year, MassWildlife said 65 chicks hatched and survived to fly. Forty-five of the chicks were “banded with silver federal bands and color-coded state bands,” MassWildlife said. 

Bald eagles disappeared from Massachusetts around the turn of the 20th century, with the last known nesting attempt taking place in Sandwich in 1905, MassWildlife said. Upon discovering that some eagles were spending winters in the Quabbin Reservoir area in the early 1980s, MassWildlife and others began restoration efforts."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://franklin.wickedlocal.com/news/20181203/bald-eagle-population-rebounding-with-state-help

photo via Division of Fisheries and Wildlife

Visit the MA Division of Fisheries and Wildlife for more about the eagles
https://www.mass.gov/news/bald-eagle-numbers-on-the-rise