Downtown Project Update - #36

Paving has begun in downtown. The contractor will be in the reminder of this week beginning the tree and shrub plantings in downtown. The contractors will also be onsite to mill the section of Beaver Street and Union Street.

Paving is planning to resume next week, tentatively for Tuesday and Wednesday of the week of June 27, including East Central St and the rest of main.

Please be aware as you enter these intersections there may be detours throughout downtown.

Signals making downtown a two-way intersection should be tentatively taking effect mid-July.

Please contact the Town Administrator's Office at 520-4949 with any questions. We will continue to keep the public informed through our website, Twitter and Facebook.

new 'brick' polymer crosswalk

Comment Concerning the Danger of adding the Proposed Spectra Energy Natural Gas Pipeline

Comment Concerning the Danger of adding the Proposed Spectra Energy Natural Gas Pipeline, Delivered at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) Scoping Meeting, May 18, 2016, Milford, MA. 

If this meeting were happening in 1963 when the current old bare steel pipeline was installed who would be here? Perhaps a few farmers looking for compensation or expressing concerns about the impact on their livelihood. That was then and now is now. Today these areas are heavily populated and we know much more about the effects of gas leaks. And now Spectra Energy is proposing to build a second high pressure line as close as 20’ from the old one. I contend that this idea is irresponsible given what we know. 

I’m not here tonight to talk about the environmental damage caused by fracking and gas leaks. I’m not here to talk about exporting natural gas and having us pay a tariff to do it. And I’m not here to restate that the Attorney General’s and the Conservation Law Foundation’s reports indicate that there’s no need for another pipeline that would interfere with the goals of the 2008 Global Warming Solutions Act. 

I’m here to share the concerns of many residents who worry about the safety of gas pipelines. At a Spectra Energy open house in February I observed aerial pictures of the existing and proposed pipelines. I’ve been to many affected neighborhoods and observed that the current pipeline is roughly within 25’ of some homes and within 50’ of many others. 

Most of these homes were built after the pipeline was installed in 1963, and before people knew the potential dangers caused by leaks. According to the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, the HCAs (High Consequence Areas) are at least a 660’ radius. Hundreds of homes lie within this zone. According to a Spectra employee, the old 24-inch bare steel pipe contains about 700lbs per square inch of pressure and the proposed 30” line can handle up to 1200 lbs. So what could happen? 

Given that a similar old bare steel transmission line exploded on April 29th in Pennsylvania after being inspected two years earlier is very concerning and calls into question Spectra’s ability to assess pipeline safety. Houses were destroyed and a man was badly burned. The preliminary finding was that the leak was caused by corrosion. The inspection didn’t prevent this. 

On January 5th Medway had a serious gas leak where a lateral pipeline crosses Rt. 109. According to the Milford Daily News, six homes were evacuated while the leak was repaired. In addition to the Medway Fire Department, three other fire departments were on hand. Luckily, it didn’t explode. 

According to Heetma.org, Massachusetts has more than 20,000 natural gas leaks, so why pump more gas into a leaky system? It just doesn’t make sense.
In my opinion, the fact that the proposed pipeline could be as close as 20 feet from the existed line would increase the incineration zone exponentially. If one pipeline explodes, the other probably could too. A leak and a spark would be devastating. This could happen anywhere in Massachusetts given the enormous number of ignored leaks. 

According to the US Department of Transportation’s Pipelines and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration from 1994 through 2013, there were 110 serious incidents with interstate gas transmission pipelines. This resulted in $448,900,333 in property damages, 195 injuries and 41 deaths. 

From 2002 to 2015 there were 589 resolved civil penalty cases totaling $47, 447,675. At this time there are another 637 open cases with proposed penalties of $64,856,000 Given that Massachusetts has over 20,000 natural gas leaks, why would we pump more natural gas into a leaking system? It just doesn’t make sense. 

On November 30, 2015 Steve Aklquist of RI Future.org wrote an article based on an interview with two former safety inspectors who worked for Spectra in nearby Burrillville, Rhode Island. The two safety inspectors were working on a section of Spectra Energy’s AIM pipeline system and stated that the company cut corners when it came to project, worker and environmental safety. 

One inspector was quoted as saying, “Right now, what they’re hoping to do, is they’re hoping to slam all this through, and then at the end ask for forgiveness,” They’ll say, “Oops, sorry about that, I didn’t know, let me write you a check. Because once this thing’s turning meter, they’re going to be making millions of dollars a day. It doesn’t matter what your problems are.” 

According to the article the other inspector added , “These pipes have to last underground for at least 50 years….If there’s the smallest mistake in their cathodic protection, that’s what’s going to corrode. All of a sudden you’ve got, even at 800-900 pounds of pressure, doesn’t sound like much, but when you’ve got a 42-inch pipe, traveling that distance and it goes ka-bang, you’re not talking about taking out a block, you’re talking about taking out a large area. You’re talking about a humongous ecological impact, you’re talking about displacing hundreds of families, you’re talking about leveling homes, killing people instantly, I mean, if one of those places were to go up, it’s going to be a bad day.” End of quote. 

As I said, I’m not here tonight to talk about the environmental damage caused by gas leaks and fracking. Or the fact that both the Attorney General’s and the Conservation Law Foundation’s research indicates that there are better ways to address peak winter days than adding another pipeline. 

I’m here to say that given the track record of pipelines and the extreme pressure and location of the proposed pipeline, we ask that FERC consider the safety of our citizens by rejecting this proposal. Thanks for your time. 

Respectfully submitted by, 

James F. Hill
Franklin, MA 02038

No Spectra sign found on a Franklin lawn

Rockland Trust Family Splash Park Opens At The Bernon Family Branch YMCA

On Thursday, June 16th the Hockomock Area YMCA hosted a dedication and celebration of the Rockland Trust Family Splash Park at the Bernon Family Branch YMCA. On a beautiful sun-soaked afternoon, representatives from Rockland Trust joined Hockomock Area YMCA leadership volunteers, staff and kids christening the park highlighted by a tumultuous wave of water dropped from a huge bucket suspended 15 feet from the ground drenching kids and adults alike.

“This is a very exciting day,” exclaimed Brian Earley, chairman of the Board of Directors at the Hockomock Area YMCA. “We are so grateful for the partnership and friendship of Rockland Trust. This Splash Park will be a great addition to our YMCA, and another exciting touchpoint for the community, providing families with a place to spend quality time together.”

Jane Lundquist, executive vice president of Rockland Trust and president of the Rockland Trust Charitable Foundation marveled at the finished splash park and noted, “I remember that large hole in the ground back in October and look at it today! We are so proud to award a major grant to the Hockomock Area YMCA, an organization that has such an impact on the community.” At the end of her brief remarks Jane was greeted by cheers as she turned to the kids and asked “Are you ready?!”

Franklin Town Administrator Jeff Nutting thanked Rockland Trust for “this wonderful gift to the community and the Y. It’s about those kids, not us, and the important family time this will encourage.” Thanking the Y, Nutting remarked, “Every year I contribute to the Y because the Y gives it back 10-fold.”

At the conclusion of the dedication ceremony Hockomock Area YMCA President Ed Hurley noted, “I want to add my personal thanks to everyone at Rockland Trust. We’re very proud of the long-standing relationship our YMCA has with a bank that believes in giving back to the community. We are honored and proud to be the recipient of your support and friendship.” Hurley presented Jane Lundquist a rendering of the bronze plaque that will be mounted on granite in the park. The plaque reads “Rockland Trust Family Splash Park made possible through the thoughtful generosity of the Rockland Trust Family Foundation. Thank you for your commitment to supporting kids and families in our community.”

Hockomock Area YMCA Board of Directors Vice Chairman Bill Chouinard (far left) and Hockomock Area YMCA Board of Directors Chairman Brian Earley (far right) with YMCA members Aiden Cohen (second from left) and Ryan Martin (third from left)

Hockomock Area YMCA members enjoy the first ceremonial bucket drop

Jane Lundquist, executive vice president of Rockland Trust, and Ed Hurley, president of the Hockomock Area YMCA, with the Rockland Trust Family Splash Park dedication plaque

A community group photo of representatives of Rockland Trust, the Hockomock Area YMCA and the town of Franklin

About the Hockomock Area YMCA:

Where Cause Meets Community. At the Hockomock Area YMCA, strengthening community is our cause. The Hockomock Area YMCA is an organization of men, women, and children sharing a commitment to nurture the potential of kids, promote healthy living, and foster a sense of social responsibility.

The Hockomock Area YMCA is committed to partnering and collaborating with others to create and deliver lasting personal and social change in the 15 communities they are privileged to serve. The Hockomock Area YMCA is a not-for-profit charitable cause-driven organization with facilities in North Attleboro, Foxboro, Franklin, and Mansfield. For more information visit hockymca.org.

“Press pause before you decide, you can’t rewind it.”

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

"Franklin High had a perfect season this year in a county-wide competition to prevent substance abuse organized by Norfolk DA Michael W. Morrissey. 

The new competition, dubbed “Team Rival,” pits local high schools against their traditional athletic rivals to encourage participation in a number of constructive events and functions that revolve around building a school culture around healthy choices. The Panthers edged the King Philip Warriors by a single challenge."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160621/franklin-high-tops-in-regional-peer-leadership-competition

The Public Service Announcement video produced by FHS students as part of the competition:

Water Conservation for all in Franklin!

Hello, this is Brutus Cantoreggi

Franklin's drinking water supply system is currently struggling to meet our water demands. 

This is due to a number of reasons, lack of snow pack from last winter, the recent dry period and most significantly, residents and businesses are not following the one-day-per-week water conservation measures.   Last weekend we had extremely high water demand during days that should have had no outdoor watering. 

If this demand continues at the current rate, the safe supply of clean drinking water and fire protection throughout the Town will be jeopardized.  The Town will be forced to impose a full outdoor watering ban.   Meaning no outdoor water use whatsoever on any day for whatever reason.

In order to avoid those extreme measures, we urge all residents and businesses to comply with the one-day-per-week watering schedule. 

Starting immediately, Public Works and Franklin Police will begin patrolling and enforcing the Town's water conservation plan.  Violators are subject to fines up to $200. 

We are all in this together; please remind your friends and neighbors about water conservation.

For additional information or assistance, please contact the DPW Office at 508-520-4910 or visit the Town of Franklin website.

Franklin water tower on Upper Union St in 2013

This e-mail has been sent to you by TOWN OF FRANKLIN. To maximize their communication with you, you may be receiving this e-mail in addition to a phone call with the same message. 

FISH of Franklin needs volunteers

FISH is an all volunteer, non profit organization that provides free transportation to Franklin residents to medical appointments. We have been providing this service for almost 43 years. 

We are in need of volunteers, particularly drivers. We are looking for men and women who are able to volunteer for as little as a few hours per month. Most of our clients have appointments within about a 20 mile radius of Franklin. 

If anyone is interested in helping or would like more information, they may call FISH at 508-528-2121, leave a name and # and we'll get back to them.

FISH of Franklin needs volunteers

Paving Main St Franklin

Thanks to a loyal reader for submitting these photos of the paving operation on Main St. As notified earlier in the day, the contractor had received the certification for the asphalt mix being used and was planning on paving.

paving Main St #1

paving Main St #2

paving Main St #3

paving Main St #4

paving Main St #5

paving Main St #6

paving Main St #7

In the News: Charter school discussed at Planning Board, pedestrian fatality identified

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

"The Planning Board reviewed on Monday night the site plan for a proposed new location for the Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School. 

The board heard from project representatives on such topics as the sidewalks and fill to be used at the site - located on Financial Park, between Washington and Grove streets - before continuing the matter to a future meeting. 

Project representative Andrew Truman, of Samiotes Consultants, said he believed the issues brought up at a previous board meeting had largely been addressed."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160620/franklin-planning-board-considers-charter-school-location

"The pedestrian struck and killed by an MBTA commuter rail train Saturday has been identified as a 27-year-old Sudbury man. 

The MBTA Transit Police announced Monday that Eric Parker was the victim. 

The incident took place at around 4:20 p.m. in the area between Fisher and Union streets. Parker was struck by the 1711 train, which departed South Station at 3:30 p.m. bound for Forge Park. Police reported that Parker was trespassing in the rail's right of way at the time."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160620/sudbury-resident-idd-as-man-struck-by-train-in-franklin

Downtown Update #35 - paving to begin Monday evening

Downtown Project Update #35

June 20, 2016

Third time is a charm.

The asphalt mix has been approved by the state for the new roads in downtown. Paving operations will begin on Main Street tonight, Monday June 20th, between Emmons Street and the bridge. Start time will begin at 6:00 PM but no closure/detour will be placed on West Central St until after 7:00 pm.

Please contact the Town Administrator's Office at 520-4949 with any questions. We will continue to keep the public informed through our website, Twitter and Facebook.

Very truly yours,

Jamie Hellen

Deputy Town Administrator

Town of Franklin

Reminder: Forum on Substance Use Disorders - Today at Dean College

Presenters: 
State Representative, Jeffrey Roy 
SAFE Coalition President, James Derick

Date/Time: 
Monday, June 20, 2016. 7:00 pm 

Location: 
Dean College Campus Center, Atrium 
Emmons St., Franklin, MA (Parking from 109 West St)

Agenda: 

1. How did we get here? A discussion on the history of the Opioid epidemic, nationally and locally.  

2. Public Health Epidemic – Discuss current trends in substance abuse. Just how bad is the problem and how is it impacting our communities?  

3. Faces of the Epidemic – Hear from a person in long term recovery into and out of active addiction. 

4. What defines a substance abuse disorder? What triggers addiction? How does a person recover from his or her disease?  

5. Responding to the Epidemic – How has the federal and state government responded and how are community agencies responding? What role do community coalitions play?  

6. How do citizens become involved in helping communities heal and in promoting change?  

7. Q and A: Engage audience members in the discussion.

presented by the Franklin Odd Fellows

Related post
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2016/06/safe-community-coalition-update.html

"We're trying to save folks some money"

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

"The town is moving forward with a zoning law change that local officials hope will allow for more business property improvements. 

At its meeting earlier this month, the Town Council voted unanimously to take the next step with a bylaw amendment that would allow additions, alterations and improvements on presently existing structures with only a limited site plan. Currently, such changes require a full site plan. 

Town Administrator Jeffrey Nutting explained the change, citing the placement of an Aubuchon Hardware store at the Horace Mann Plaza, as an example of the type of development that would be affected. 

"The whole plaza doesn't have a site plan," he said. "It seems unfair to spend tens of thousands of dollars on a plan when you're just changing a little portion of it."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160619/franklin-seeking-zoning-change-with-eye-toward-spurring-business

Aubuchon will be consolidating its Cottage St and Hometown Paints location into this one space opening soon

"too late for homeowners to protect their trees"

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

"The MetroWest area is one of several across the state that has been hit hard by the gypsy moth caterpillar and local arborists say there is little homeowners can do now to protect their trees from the insect. 

Throughout the past few years – and particularly this year – the gypsy moth caterpillar population has been on the rise, likely due to dry springs the past few years. The dry weather has repressed the growth of entomophaga maimaiga, a soil-based fungus that kills gypsy moth larvae. 

“We’ve seen a lot more the past five to 10 years,” said Eric Taylor, consulting arborist with Lynch Plant Health Care in Sudbury."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160619/metrowest-hit-hard-by-gypsy-moth-caterpillar

tree on the Franklin Town Common whose leaves are being decimated by the gypsy moth (or something else?)

Register O'Donnell Promotes Registry of Deeds Internet Research

	Norfolk County Registry of Deeds
	Register O'Donnell Promotes Registry of Deeds Internet Research Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell is providing a friendly reminder to consumers that you don't have to spend time and money to drive to the Registry to view land records since they are available online via the Registry's internet-based document research system at www.norfolkdeeds.org. "Consumers can see up to 5,000,000 scanned land document images dating back to the founding of Norfolk County in 1793. These documents are available via our internet-based document research system. "Providing secure, accurate and accessible land record information, coupled with our on-site customer service center, is critical to our success at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds," said Register O'Donnell. Elaborating on the Registry's research capabilities, O'Donnell said, "Land record information can be researched by multiple options, including the name of the property owner and property address. Consumers can access our internet-based document research system for many endeavors, to determine property ownership, to research land titles, to review land plans (not plot plans which are not recorded at the Registry) and finally to confirm that documents affecting a person's property - such as mortgage discharges - have been duly recorded." The Registry's website also provides information on how to obtain copies of land documents. The Registry copy charges are $1.00 per page plus an additional $1.00 per document for postage. In conclusion, O'Donnell stated, "Providing first-class customer service is a core objective of the Registry. Norfolk County residents and businesses deserve a Registry of Deeds that provides them with access to land record information in an easily accessible and consumer friendly manner. The Registry website www.norfolkdeeds.org does that by bringing the Registry records into your homes and businesses." 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. The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, located at 649 High Street, Dedham, is the principal office for real property in Norfolk County. The Registry is a resource for homeowners, title examiners, mortgage lenders, municipalities and others with a need for secure, accurate, accessible land record information. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center at (781) 461-6101, or on the web at www.norfolkdeeds.org. Register William P. O'Donnell Norfolk County Registry of Deeds email: registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org phone: 781-234-3336 web: http://www.norfolkdeeds.org

Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, 649 High Street, Dedham,, MA 02026-1831 Sent by registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org in collaboration with Try it free today screen grab of Norfolk Deeds webpage

Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - June 22, 2016

The agenda for the Town Council meeting Wednesday, June 22 has been released with the associated documents.

• The annual committee appointments was tabled from last meeting and is up for vote at this one
• Thomas Lynch gets sworn in as Police Chief, James Mills gets sworn in as Deputy Chief
• The plan for parking downtown is up for discussion

The PDF file here contains links to the supporting documents:

parking spots by the Bank of America building along Emmons St that are part of the
easement agreement up for approval on this agenda

Franklin Recreation Department Introduces Pickleball

The Franklin Recreation Department is excited to announce that this summer we will be introducing a new program for the sport of Pickleball. According to USAPA (USA Pickleball Association) it is one of the quickest growing sports being played all across the country. Pickleball is a fast paced paddle sport that combines elements from tennis, badminton, and ping pong.

This program will be open to anyone ages 10 and up! Join us as we have open court time at the Franklin High School tennis courts on Tuesdays starting on June 28th and continuing until August 9th from 7-9 PM. Take this time to learn the rules and master the skills of the game or if you are already familiar with the sport use the time to compete against your friends in doubles matches each week. All necessary equipment will be provided, including nets, paddles, balls, etc. Registration is now open, free of charge and can be completed online, by visiting the Recreation Department at 275 Beaver Street in Franklin or by calling us at 508-613-1666.

• To register online

http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Recreation/online

USA Pickleball Association

• For more info on starting pickleball

http://www.usapa.org/what-is-pickleball/

• From YouTube pickleball video tips for players

Downtown Parking Proposal - for discussion at the Town Council meeting June 22

Town Administrator Jeff Nutting writes to the Town Council:

"The goal of parking management in the downtown is to provide for turnover of spaces for customers at reasonable time intervals. The parking “problem” has several issues including:

1. Keeping MBTA commuters from using spaces reserved for customers
2. Parking for some downtown employees
3. Parking close to business establishments
4. Underutilization of some spaces

After several meetings with the business community and discussion with staff and the police department I offer for discussion the following suggested changes to the downtown parking:

1. Streets - Generally the colored lines are as follows: 

a. Red – No Parking. 

b. Purple – 2 hour parking enforced Monday – Friday from 8 AM - 2 PM. This is generally the immediate down town area. 

c. Blue – 2 hour parking enforced Monday –Friday from 6 AM – 10 AM. These areas are currently a mixed bag of 2 hour parking with various restrictions or residential parking. The intent is to prevent commuter parking in these spaces in the AM. 

d. Green – Merchant Parking enforced Monday – Friday 6 AM – 2 PM If there are no colors than parking is allowed 24/7 except for snow and ice or other events.

2. Downtown Parking Lots - 

a. Commuter Parking 

–i. Currently there are 53 spaces in the Depot Street lot and 17 Spaces in the West Central Street Lot. 

ii. Hours = I propose that we sell commuter spaces Monday-Friday 6 AM – Noon. 

iii. If spaces are available after noon anyone can park in the space. The current fee is$480 per year ($125 per quarter) or about $2 per day. 

b. Merchant Permits 

–i. Currently 22 spaces – I propose to sell merchant parking.

ii. Hours = Monday – Friday 6 AM- 2PM. After 2 PM anyone can park in the spaces. 

iii. The current fee is $360 per year ($180 for six months) or about $1.35 per day.Currently one business uses 16 spaces, one uses 5 spaces and 1 uses 1 space. I suggest the Council consider increasing the fee to match the Commuter space fee of $480 per year. The spaces have the same value and cost the same to maintain. 

iv. Add an HP spot in the Ferrara lot. 

v. Keep 5 spaces for customers and continue to sell the rest for commuter rail. 

vi. Adjust the number of customer spaces as may be required by reducing commuter spaces in demand dictates a change.

Once the Town Council adopts a plan it should be reviewed the plan in six months."


For the full text and map visit the Franklin page here
http://franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_News/0242A573-000F8513

Or view the document here




Yes, there were parking meters downtown. They were covered in burlap for the holidays and removed in early January. In front of Rockland Trust, the parking meetings have been removed but there is still one on the other side in front of the Post Office.

January 10, 2016

a little further along Main St but in front of Rockland Trust, Saturday, June 18

Summer Food Service Program Kicks Off in Milford

A collaborative project with the Milford Area Humanitarian Coalition,

the Milford Public Schools Food Services and the Hockomock Area YMCA

The Milford Area Humanitarian Coalition is presenting the Milford Summer Food Service Program, sponsored by the Hockomock Area YMCA in collaboration with the Milford Public Schools Food Services team. The program begins on Thursday, June 23rd and will end on Tuesday, August 30th.

The program is being offered at three locations in Milford, MA including Memorial Elementary School located at 12 Walnut Street; The Milford Youth Center located at 24 Pearl Street; and the Trinity Episcopal Church located at 17 Congress Street.

The Summer Food Service Program in Milford will be serving nutritious lunches for all children who would like to participate (ages 18 and under) Monday through Friday between 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Participants must remain onsite while eating and enjoying the meal. Each site will also offer fun, interactive activities after the lunch each weekday. This program is free and open to all. No advanced sign-up or paperwork required. In addition to the free lunch, an afternoon snack is available at the Milford Youth Center from 3:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. each week day.

“We are proud that our Y is a place where community comes together to make a difference when we engage in initiatives like the Milford Summer Food Service Program,” said Ed Hurley, president of the Hockomock Area YMCA. “Our partnership with the Milford Area Humanitarian Coalition and the Milford Public Schools will positively impact hundreds of Milford children and families. Collectively we are working to ensure that more kids have the nourishment they need to grow and thrive this summer.”

A pilot program was launched last summer in Milford by the Milford Area Humanitarian Coalition (MAHC). The program served 2,200 meals to children over the course of the summer. "Last summer’s lunch program was a huge success. We used private funding to test out the pilot program. The good news is that every child who comes to one of the three lunch sites will be fed each week day this summer. We anticipate 300 to 500 kids a day. The bad news is that there are over 1,400 children in the Milford school system who depend on the school for their meals (reduced price and free) over the course of the school year. Let’s make sure that no child goes to bed hungry this summer,” said Rev. William MacDonald Murray, who is also the rector at Trinity Episcopal Church and leads the Milford Area Humanitarian Coalition.

Kevin McIntyre, incoming Superintendent of Milford Public Schools said, "We are very excited to partner with the Milford Area Humanitarian Coalition and the Hockomock Area YMCA for the Summer Food Service Program. This supports a clear need in the community and will provide meals to our students throughout the summer. I look forward to this being an annual partnership because of the vital need this fills when school is out of session."

For more information or to be a program volunteer, email mealprograms@hockymca.org. Information can also be found on Facebook (Milford Summer Food Service Program) and Twitter (@Milford_SFSP). As well as on the website: hockymca.org.

Meals will be provided to all children without charge and are the same for all children regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age or ability, and there will be no discrimination in the course of the meal service.

Thank you to the following sponsors who have supported this program with grants or donations of over $250 dollars: The Walmart Foundation, The Episcopal Churches of Central and Western Massachusetts, The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, CHNA 6, Project Bread, Unibank, Bright Insurance, Trinity Episcopal Church, First Congregational Church, Milford Federal Saving and Loan, Milford National Bank and Trust, Partners by Design, Commission on Disability, Imperial Ford, Law Offices of Michael M. Kaplan P.C., Harold and Marcia Rhodes, and the Milford Rotary Club.

Milford Summer Food Service Program, sponsored by the Hockomock Area YMCA

In the News Rail trail spring clean up; pedestrian killed on tracks

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

"A contingent of volunteers walked the local portion of the Southern New England Trunkline Trail Saturday morning, picking up trash and clearing brush. 

The cleanup, organized by the Franklin and Bellingham Rail Trail Committee, is part of an ongoing effort to keep the path clear of obstructions. 

"We try to have a cleanup about three times a year," said Edward Barth, the committee's president. "We work to time it with when the (state Department of Conservation and Recreation) is available. Usually, our fall cleanup is the big one."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160618/making-some-happy-trails

From the FBRTC Facebook page:

Ready for walk and work (FBRTC photo)

For additional photos of the clean up on Saturday
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=ms.c.eJxFzMENwDAIQ9GNKgMJxvsvVok09Pr0bUOIRqazUl6PHSho7djCwDrFD2wwXpD3hPOh3QU0UAfygwLSHB4c8FP4QH~_U7kcFewK86HIl8g~-~-.bps.a.1039714256120612.1073741843.185258844899495&type=3

"A pedestrian was struck and killed by an MBTA commuter rail train Saturday afternoon. 

The incident occurred at about 4:30 p.m. between Fisher and Union streets."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160618/franklin-person-struck-by-commuter-rail-train