Upcoming Events in Franklin, MA: FRI 8/31/18 - THU 9/6/18

FRIDAY 8/31/18

10am-12pm   Knitting Group @ Franklin Public Library

12-6pm   Farmers Market @ Town Common

SATURDAY 9/1/18

10am-1pm   Franklin Historical Museum Open

10:30am   Baby Sensory @ Franklin Public Library

SUNDAY 9/2/18

All Day   Franklin Public Library Closed

1-4pm   Franklin Historical Museum Open

MONDAY 9/3/18

All Day   Franklin Public Library Closed

TUESDAY 9/4/18

7pm   Friends of the Franklin Library Book Group @ Franklin Public Library

WEDNESDAY 9/5/18

6:30pm   Woke: A YA Book Club @ Franklin Public Library

7pm   Town Council Meeting @ Municipal Building

7pm   Friends of the Franklin Library Meeting @ Franklin Public Library

THURSDAY 9/6/18

8:30am   Franklin Downtown Partnership General Meeting @ Dean College (Campanella Room)

5-8pm   Franklin Historical Museum Open

7pm   Healing Hearts Community Support Group @ Franklin YMCA

For the Town of Franklin Public Calendar click HERE.

For all other events and Franklin happenings click HERE.

Submit an event for the Community Calendar, please use this FORM

Hockomock Area YMCA Announces LIVESTRONG at the YMCA classes starting in September

Since 2010, The Hockomock Area YMCA has been facilitating the LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program and they are pleased to announce new classes for Fall 2018.

LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is a free 12-week program designed for cancer survivors and their families seeking to regain health, build strength, and connect with other cancer survivors. Our goal is to help participants build muscle mass and muscle strength, increase flexibility and endurance, and improve functional ability. Certified YMCA fitness instructors give personal individualized instruction and are trained in the elements of cancer, post rehab exercise, nutrition, and supportive cancer care.

New Classes Announced for LIVESTRONG at the YMCA at the Hockomock Y this Fall:

Bernon Family (Franklin) Branch

45 Forge Hill Road
Franklin, MA
Day - Time: Mondays - Thursdays, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Day - Time: Monday - Wednesday, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Starting September 10th

Invensys Foxboro Branch

67 Mechanic Street
Foxboro, MA
Day - Time: Tuesday - Thursday, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Day - Time: Tuesday - Thursday, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Starting September 11th

North Attleboro Branch

300 Elmwood Street
North Attleboro, MA
Day - Time: Monday -  Wednesday, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Starting September 5th

Cancer survivors are encouraged to visit www.hockymca.org/new-livestrong-classes or contact Jackie Robison, Program Coordinator at 508-772-1310 or jackier@hockymca.org for more information and to enroll.

In 2010, the Hockomock Area YMCA was one of the first ten YMCAs in the country to launch this life changing initiative, partnering with the LIVESTRONG Foundation to help cancer survivors begin the journey toward recovery with the LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program. On average, 120 participants graduate from the program annually at the Hockomock Area YMCA. A recent survey at the Hockomock Area YMCA found that ninety-nine percent of LIVESTRONG at the YMCA participants said that the atmosphere of the Y supports them in their pursuit of health and well-being.

Part of the Hockomock Y’s commitment to strengthening community through healthy living, the program offers adults affected by cancer a safe, supportive environment to participate in physical and social activities focused on strengthening the whole person. The Hockomock Area YMCA is enrolling now for upcoming LIVESTRONG at the YMCA sessions at their branches in Foxboro, Franklin, and North Attleboro.

Hockomock Area YMCA Announces LIVESTRONG at the YMCA classes starting in September 

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.

Leonard, Driscoll - FHS football "Players to Watch"

HockomockSports.com has published their Football Players to Watch listing for Offense and Defense. Franklin HS Football has a player on each listing.


SEAN LEONARD, SENIOR – FRANKLIN

Sean Leonard emerged as one of the top targets for Franklin quarterback Jake Noviello last fall and was one of the top big-play receivers in the league in his second season as a starter. Leonard had 36 catches for 561 yards as a junior and caught eight touchdowns. Capable of making plays down the sidelines with his speed, Leonard is also a threat through the middle, forcing defenses to cover that space and providing a tough matchup for coverage schemes by lining up in multiple positions. This season, Franklin may look to get the ball into Leonard’s hands in a variety of ways to take advantage of his playmaking ability while also using him as a good edge blocker to allow the ground game to flourish. With Noviello gone, the QB position is up for grabs this fall but Leonard will remain a player that the Panthers will look for as often as possible to keep the offense clicking.


RYAN DRISCOLL, SENIOR – FRANKLIN

Despite having his 2017 season cut a couple of games short, Driscoll was one of the top defensive players for the Panthers and also one of the best cover guys in the league. He made 35 tackles, two for loss, last season, broke up four passes, and had one interception from his cornerback position. He also chipped in on offense, catching 23 passes, and his speed and athleticism will be important for Franklin’s defense this fall, as he regularly lines up against the opponents’ top threat in the passing game but also steps up against the running game. Franklin coach Eian Bain called him the team’s “most explosive athlete” at the end of last season and Driscoll will be counted on again to make plays, force turnovers, and help the Panthers stifle opponents to make another playoff push.


For all the Hockomock Offense players to watch
https://hockomocksports.com/hockomock-football-players-to-watch-on-offense-2018/

For all the Hockomock Defense players to watch
https://hockomocksports.com/hockomock-football-players-to-watch-on-defense-2018/

The first football game for the 2018 season is Friday, Sep 7 at home vs. Andover. The complete schedule can be found online
https://hockomocksports.com/schedules/football/franklin/2018-2/

Franklin’s Sean Leonard is back after leading the league in touchdown receptions as a junior.
(Josh Perry/HockomockSports.com)

Meet Me at the Y on “Welcoming Wednesdays” this September

“Coming into the Y, it’s a very welcoming place,” says Sheryl Floris, Hockomock Area YMCA member. “No matter what’s going on in my life, I know that I can come to the Y, It’s like a safe haven.”

That is what we strive for—to be the place where people find life balance, reach their full potential, are active and find camaraderie, and connect and spend quality time together. Our goal at the Hockomock Area YMCA is to ensure that when people walk through our doors, they feel welcome and supported regardless of age, gender, ethnic origin, religious affiliation, and socioeconomic level.

All families are invited to come to our Y at no charge and enjoy a sense of belonging and the benefits of membership on “Welcoming Wednesdays” during September. On September 5, 12, 19, and 26 we are offering free group exercise classes, nutrition coaching, kids’ activities, swim time, and much more. Our branches are located at 300 Elmwood Street in North Attleboro, 67 Mechanic Street in Foxboro, and 45 Forge Hill Road in Franklin.

Meet Me at the Y on
“Welcoming Wednesdays” this September

Beverley Fonseca shares, “In the beginning I was nervous to join the Y because I had never exercised before. It was good to have someone show me around and show me what to do. At the Y, the atmosphere, the people, you just feel comfortable.”

The Y is for all and we believe our community is stronger when everyone feels welcome. We look to improve the quality of life of our members and families in the 15 communities we are privileged to serve. Visit https://www.hockymca.org/welcoming-wednesdays/ for a list of various activities and classes you can participate. Come see how the Y can be your home away from home.

Solange Ventura agreed: “When we have had difficult times, the Y was there for us. It is our support system, our family away from home. They know us by name and we feel comfortable and safe.”

“And if you want a place where there are activities for everyone,” states Daniel Ventura, “it is here.”

About the Hockomock Area YMCA

We believe that lasting personal and social change can only come about when we work together to invest in our kids, our health, and our neighbors. That is why, at the Y, strengthening community is our cause. Every day, we work side by side with our neighbors in our community to make sure that everyone, regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. Reach Out for Youth and Families is our annual support campaign to provide a YMCA experience to more than 15,000 local children and families in need.

In the News: FHS Unified Sports clothing for sale; 67 residents to participate in Jimmy Fund Walk

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

"Every sports team wants its own merchandise and to wear its colors and logo with pride, and the Franklin High Unified Sports program is no different. 

The program has set up an online store, where anyone can buy a Unified Sports sweatshirt or T-shirt to support Franklin teams. Sweatshirts are $40 and T-shirts are $20. Each can be personalized for additional $5. 

Unified Sports is an all-inclusive high school athletic program that allows athletes with various disabilities to compete alongside other students. 

While only sweatshirts and T-shirts are currently available, Franklin officials hope more items will soon be added."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20180830/franklin-unified-sports-opens-online-store

Go to the store  https://trivalley.tuosystems.com/stores/fhs-unified-sports

Support FHS Unified Sports and look smashing in a Panthers hoodie or T-shirt

"Sixty seven residents from Franklin will walk up to 26.2 miles along the historic Boston Marathon course this September in the Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk. 

These residents — Debra Honor, Caroline Cronin, Lisa Costa, Lorie Hurst, Pamela Vickery, Nancy Klockson, Stacy Koshivaki, Betsy Fijol, Angel Moscatelli, Peter Sullivan and 57 others — will join 9,500 expected participants in the annual event, which takes place Sept. 23. This year’s goal is to raise more than $9 million. The money goes to the Jimmy Fund for adult and pediatric patient care and cancer research at the nation’s premier cancer center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. The event has raised more than $128 million in its 30-year history. The Boston Athletic Association has supported the Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk since 1989."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20180830/strongfranklin-residents-to-participate-in-jimmy-fund-walk-strong

To register: http://jimmyfundwalk.org; or call 866-531-9255.

Circle of Friends Coffeehouse: Chris Smither - September 8

An evening of the blues with Chris Smither

An evening with Chris Smither Sep 8th View this email in your browser An Evening with CHRIS SMITHER Sep 8th 8 PM $35 Bluesman Chris Smither will be back at the Circle of Friends Coffeehouse to open our 29th season on Saturday, September 8th at 8PM. He sports the unmistakable sound that he has made his trademark: fingerpicked acoustic guitar and evocative sonic textures meshed with spare, brilliant songs, delivered in a bone-wise, hard-won voice. Honing a synthesis of folk and blues for more than 40 years, Chris Smither is truly an American original. As Acoustic Guitar magazine wrote, Smither sings about "the big things – life, love, loss – in a penetrating and poetic yet unpretentious way." In March 2018, Smither released his eighteenth record, Call Me Lucky to rave reviews. He recorded eight new originals along with some very special and surprising covers. Join us for a wonderful evening of the blues. https://smither.com/ "Smither is an American original – a product of the musical melting pot and one of the absolute best singer-songwriters in the world." -Associated Press. "[Smither] taps his foot to keep the rhythm, much like the late blues legend John Lee Hooker. His finger-picked guitar lines are sleek, unhurried and insistent. And then there's the voice -- equal parts gravel and molasses, Smither's singing sounds like a distillation of the folk and blues heroes he grew up listening to in New Orleans." - National Public Radio The Circle of Friends Coffeehouse is a non-profit organization affiliated with Franklin's First Universalist Society. Concerts are presented in a smoke free and alcohol free environment at the Society's handicapped accessible Meetinghouse, 262 Chestnut St. in Franklin, and begin at 8:00 PM; doors open at 7:30 PM. Beverages and gourmet desserts will be available. Tickets for this shows are $35.  Please call (508) 528-2541 or visit http://www.circlefolk.org/ to purchase tickets or for more information. Upcoming Shows Sep 22     John Gorka with                      Amilia K. Spicer Oct 6        Joe Jencks                      with Katherine Rondeau Oct 20      Bettman and Halpin Nov 3       Susan Werner with                      Jim Henry and Ruby Nov 17     Eliza Gilkyson Dec 8       The Nields Holiday Show                        and Singalong

Circle of Friends Coffeehouse · First Universalist Society · 262 Chestnut St · Franklin, MA 02038 · USA

Franklin Rotary Car Show - Sep 16

Franklin Rotary Car Show (cohosted by Dean College)

Our initial run at a Car Show last fall was so successful - nearly 60 cars showed up last September!- that the Franklin Rotary is having another car show this fall. Cars are entered by their owners, and are judged in several categories. Entrance fees are paid by car owners, but all public is admitted free! 

"Electric Cars" are a new category this year, reflecting the radical change occurring the auto industry. An experienced DJ will emcee the show and usually brings a big following of experienced devotees that can share all kinds of interesting facts about your favorite old cars. Freshly prepared food is available in the Dean College Student Center.

The show is Sunday, September 16, 2018, 11 AM to 3 PM (or as needed to complete judging), at the Dean College main parking lot in downtown Franklin, on Route 140 just west of the intersection with Emmons St (traffic light).

Parking is available adjacent in Rockland Trust Bank lot 1/2 block east on Rt.140 or by the elementary school just west of the show on Union or School Streets.

Awards are covered by show sponsors, so if you would like to have your personal or business name on one of the awards please call Terry Katsoros at Rockland Trust at theodosioskatsaros@rocklandtrust.com or Gary Convertino at gconvertino@cox.net. for info.



Car Show Sponsor Form
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0wjbnXDBhczQVd0dFBBU1M2T1VrcFhFa1ZLalFiMlRtMUV3/view?usp=sharing

Car Show Flyer
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0wjbnXDBhczckw1czV1OV9aVEhkQmRtSG45TE1GNUxqZHlF/view?usp=sharing

Franklin Rotary Car Show - Sep 16

Franklin Veterans Walkway Fund Raising Events

The Franklin Veterans Memorial Walkway committee will hold a fundraising drive on Saturday, September 1 from 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM at Stop and Shop in the Franklin Village Plaza. Brick order forms will be available and donations to the project will be accepted. 

Tickets to the Veterans Memorial Walkway Margarita Night fundraiser will also be available for $15 per person. 

Sponsored by the Franklin Elks, Margarita Night will feature cocktails, dinner, raffles and music by DJ Darrell French on Saturday, September 8 at 6:00 PM at the Elks Club, 1077 Pond Street. 

All proceeds will benefit the Walkway Fund.

Franklin Veterans Walkway Fund Raising Events

Franklin Downtown Partnership: General Meeting Agenda - Sep 6

Info on Health Connector for Business

Franklin Downtown Partnership  9 E. Central Street, Franklin, MA  02038 (774) 571-3109   downtown.franklin@yahoo.com General Meeting September 6 Join us Thursday, September 6 at 8:30 a.m. for a general meeting of the Franklin Downtown Partnership. It will be held at Dean College Campus Center in the Campanella Room, across from the dining room. All FDP members are encouraged to attend!  Attention Small Business Owners During the general meeting, State Representative Jeff Roy, vice chair of the Joint Committee on Health Care Finance and representative from the Health Connector and New England Business Association, will be outlining the new Health Connector for Business Plan. The plan provides affordable health insurance to employees of small businesses throughout the state. This will be a brief 10-minute presentation with time after the meeting for additional questions.  The new plan provides more employee choice as well as the opportunity for savings with the new "wellness track." Business owners who qualify will get up to a 15% discount on their contribution to employee coverage for promoting a healthy lifestyle within their companies. Franklin Downtown Partnership | downtown.franklin@yahoo.com | 774-571-3109 |  franklindowntownpartnership.org

Franklin Downtown Partnership, 9 E. Central St., Franklin, MA 02038 Sent by downtown.franklin@yahoo.com in collaboration with Try it free today

“Farmers are one percent of the population feeding the other 99 percent"

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

"Organic Italian wine pouring, fresh microbrews, locally churned ice cream, and everything else grown by local farmers, all in one place. 

That will be the scene at the second annual FUNdraiser, hosted by Franklin’s Pour Richard’s Wine and Spirits on 14 Grove St. and the Norfolk County Farm Bureau. Tickets will be sold for $10 at the door, and the event is open from 1-4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 8. 

Chef Daniele Baliani, of La Campania in Waltham, will be making various dishes from the donated, locally grown materials, including a full pig roast. 

Jay Needleman, owner of Ipswich-based Privateer Rum, will tend bar. He’ll be shaking up cocktail samples spiced with locally sourced vegetables, fruits, honeys and herbs."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20180829/pour-richards-invites-local-farms-to-show-off-their-goods

Additional information can be found on Pour Richard's page
http://pourrichardswine.com/content/no-farms-no-food

No farms, no food

YMCA Youth Sports Leagues Begin September 7

The Y is a great place to learn to love a sport. And YMCA Fall Sports Leagues offer a great means for kids to be connected with others while being active outdoors. Sports teams led by expert staff are enrolling today for children ages 4-14 at the YMCAs located in Foxboro, Franklin, and North Attleboro.

With an emphasis on skill development and sportsmanship, you’re sure to find an environment where everyone plays and develops. The upcoming season runs September 7-October 28, 2018.

The Y soccer league includes three practices and five games, and players will be given a t-shirt and end of season award. The Y NFL flag football also involves three practices and five games, with team jersey provided. The Y beginner cheerleading will introduce girls to basic cheerleading and gymnastics including jumps, tumbling, and cheering.

Coed NFL Flag Football

Coed Soccer to run as follows:
@ the Foxboro Y, Sundays 10:00am (age 4), 11:00am (age 5–6)
@ the Franklin Y, Saturdays 9:00am (age 3-4), 10:15am (age 5–6)
@ the North Attleboro Y, Sundays 10:00am (age 4), 11:00am (age 5–6)

Coed NFL Flag Football to run as follows:
@ the Foxboro Y, Fridays 6:00pm (age 6-7), 7:00pm (age 8–10), 8:00pm (age 11-14)
@ the North Attleboro Y, Fridays 5:30pm (age 5-6), 6:30pm (age 7-8), 7:30pm (age 9-14)

Beginner Cheerleading to run as follows:
@ the Foxboro Y, Fridays 5:00pm (age 4-5), 6:00pm (age 6-9)
@ the North Attleboro Y, Fridays 5:30pm (age 4-5), 6:30pm (age 6-9)
The younger group will learn basic cheerleading skills, while the older girls will include jumps/tumbling and also cheering at games the second half of the season.

Beginner Cheerleading

Family and Single-Parent members of the Hockomock Area YMCA will pay the cost of uniform only as a perk of membership. Costs: Soccer $10 Family-type member; $84 youth member; $126 program member. Cheer and Football $30 Family-type member; $114 youth member; $171 program member. Teams will be arranged so that everyone plays and is encouraged to perform at the best of their ability. 60 minutes each. To register, visit hockymca.org/fall-leagues.


About 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. 

Our YMCA is committed to partnering and collaborating with others to create and deliver lasting personal and social change in the 15 communities we 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.

State Representative Jeffrey Roy will welcome Congressman Joseph P. Kennedy III to Franklin on Wednesday afternoon.

Beginning at the Franklin Fire Station at 1:30 PM Representative Roy and Congressman Kennedy will be visiting some of the many small businesses that are part of the successful effort to revitalize Franklin's Downtown. 

These will include the Intermission Cafe, Dean Bank, Rome Restaurant and Keefe Insurance. 

Rae Lynn Mercer owner of the Intermission Cafe, worked with Congressman Kennedy's great-uncle, the late Senator Edward Kennedy, to obtain funding for the Franklin Downtown Revitalization efforts. 

They will also visit the Franklin Food Pantry. At the Food pantry Representative Roy and Congressman Kennedy will be greeted by Executive Director Erin Lynch who at one point struggled to feed her own family and is now committed to helping others overcome food insecurity. 

"It is always a privilege to welcome our Congressman to Franklin and I am looking forward to highlighting the great work that local businesses are doing to create a strong local economy." said Representative Roy.

Intermission Cafe one of the downtown Franklin businesses scheduled for a visit

Elks present large US Flag to Franklin Fire Dept.

"We proudly presented the Franklin Fire Department with a 40 x 25 foot American Flag last night before our Lodge Meeting! ️

We can not THANK the Franklin Fire Department enough for all of their dedication and hard work to our community and now they can have this Flag to proudly wave at Community and Veterans Events. 

This was made possible by the use of the 150th Anniversary Grant from Grand Lodge as well as Lodge fundraisers. 

Thank you to our Secretary, Michele and our Organist, Frank for making this possible! #ElksCareElksShare 

Photos from: Paul Vicario Studios in Franklin, MA!"

Elks present large US Flag to Franklin Fire Dept. (photo by Paul Vicario Studios)

"It was about the power of the positive”

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

"Yellow buses packed with smiling youngsters pulled up at Davis Thayer Elementary School first thing Tuesday morning. 

Principal Kathleen Gerber said she was happy to see the children back, hearing them greet their old teachers with excited hellos on their way to meet their new instructors. 

“It’s always great to see new faces and welcome new students as well,” she said. “There are lots of smiles, and just the energy of that first day.” 

Superintendent Sara Ahern said the first day was a success in the district."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20180828/school-bells-ring-in-franklin

screen grab of presentation on Monday captured and shared by Oak St via Twitter