- Camille Bernstein: https://www.facebook.com/groups/430251844946562
- Mark Bisson: https://www.facebook.com/groups/993032414806154
- Dave Callaghan: https://www.facebook.com/Dave-Callaghan-for-School-Committee-105575838510215
- Al Charles: https://www.facebook.com/AlCharlesFSC
- Jennifer D'Angelo
- John McCormack: https://www.facebook.com/McCormack4SC
- Dave McNeill: https://www.facebook.com/DaveMcNeillforSC
- Mary Jane Scofield
- Denise Spencer: https://www.facebook.com/SpencerforSchoolCommittee
- Elise Stokes: https://www.facebook.com/GetStokes4Franklin
- Dashe Videira http://www.dasheforfreedom.com/
- Meghan Whitmore: https://www.facebook.com/Meghan-Whitmore-for-Franklin-School-Committee-106021458463361
Providing accurate and timely information about what matters in Franklin, MA since 2007. * Working in collaboration with Franklin TV and Radio (wfpr.fm) since October 2019 *
Saturday, September 11, 2021
School Committee candidate campaign pages
Boston Globe: "Coyotes are finding a home across Mass"
"One of the world’s most adaptable animals, coyotes have learned to live in urban environments. And as they become more accustomed to their surroundings, and with plentiful amounts of discarded food, they can grow less fearful of their human neighbors, wildlife experts say.“They’re out there, and they’re here to stay. The best thing we can do is learn how to live with them,” said Elizabeth Magner, an animal advocacy specialist for the MSPCA. “We all need to be aware of the wild animals around us.”State officials estimate that as many as 11,500 coyotes are living in Massachusetts, and they’ve been reported in every city and town on the mainland. Only Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard, to date, have failed to record a sighting."
Friday, September 10, 2021
Franklin's Event Outlook: Sep 10 - Sep 16, 2021
Friday, September 10
2:00pm - Farmers Market
2:00pm - Zucchini Races
3:30pm - Kids craft activity by Library Youth Services
4:00pm - Kitchen Sink Quintet
10:00am - FSPA Open House
10:00am - Historical Museum (always free)
12:00pm - Franklin Cultural Festival "Community Unity"
12:30pm - FCF: Franklin School of the Performing Arts
1:00pm - Historical Museum (always free)
1:15pm - Second Sunday Speakers Series
1:30pm - FCF: INDIA SHOWCASE
2:00pm - FCF: @ the Kid's Corner, "Puppet Showcase Theater"
2:30pm - FCF: The Pamela Means Project
3:30pm - FCF: @ the Kid's Corner, "Puppet Showcase Theater"
4:00pm - FCF: Salsa Dance Instructions by RI Latin Dance School
4:30pm - FCF: Eguie Castrillo & Mar del Norte Salsa Orchestra
If you have an event to add to the calendar, you can use the form to submit it for publication: https://forms.gle/oPdi8X3ZbHHyrHzo6
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Community Calendar |
A Statement by the Franklin Interfaith Council: In Support of COVID-19 Vaccination
“Love your neighbor as yourself” is a key principle of the religions we practice. We believe it’s what God calls us to do. But while it’s an easy phrase to remember and recite, it can be challenging to actually live it out in our daily lives.
We are in the middle of a pandemic. To state the obvious, it has been a stressful, scary, exhausting, grief-filled year and a half, and it’s not over yet. The advent of the Delta variant is ramping things up again.
In the middle of our own stress, can we stop to consider what our neighbors might need from us? How might we, practically, treat them with love?
Please get the Covid 19 vaccine! (if you are eligible)
- It drastically reduces the possibility of you contracting the virus and spreading it to others.
- Even if a vaccinated person does get a breakthrough infection, they get a MUCH milder case, as the vaccine is highly effective at preventing hospitalization and death.
- Since vaccinated people are less likely to contract the virus and pass it on, it protects the people around them, particularly children and the immunocompromised who are not eligible for the vaccine.
- More vaccinated people means fewer hosts for the virus, thus less virus present in the community.
- Fewer people infected with COVID means fewer people dying, fewer people hospitalized, and therefore less risk for healthcare workers, and fewer people missing work and school.
- Since the vast majority of people hospitalized with COVID are unvaccinated, if everyone chose to get vaccinated, that would free up ICU’s, doctors, and nurses to treat people with other conditions.
If you are fearful about the vaccine, talk with your doctor. Read up on the science behind the vaccine on the websites of the Centers for Disease Control (cdc.gov), the World Health Organization (who.int), Massachusetts Department of Health (mass.gov/covid-19-updates-and-information), or other local governments. We hope that everyone will use their God-given powers of reason, discernment, and understanding to make an informed decision to get vaccinated and care for their neighbors as well as themselves.
- Rabbi Tom Alpert, Temple Etz Chaim
- Susan Borchard, Franklin Federated Church
- Rev. Eric Cherry, Minister, First Universalist Society in Franklin
- Mary Diehl, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
- The Rev. Maggie Geller, Deacon, St. John’s Episcopal Church
- Rev. Dr. Jacob W. Juncker, Pastor, Franklin United Methodist Church
- Rev. Brian Manning, Pastor, Saint Mary Parish
- The Rev. Kathy McAdams, Rector, St. John’s Episcopal Church
- Rev. Dr. Marlayna Schmidt, Interim Pastor, Franklin Federated Church
Visit www.FranklinInterfaith.org
Like us on Facebook: Franklin Interfaith Council
Lifelong Learning Announces Fall 2021 Programs - Registration Now Open
Registration is now open at Franklin’s Lifelong Learning Institute. We are so happy to be back! We hope you can join us.
Lifelong Learning is the community education branch of Franklin Public Schools, and provides educational experiences for Franklin residents, and those from surrounding towns, from elementary school through retirement.
In Lifelong Community Learning, adult participants can choose from a very interesting variety of options this fall, including Arts & Crafts, Exercise & Wellness, Team Sports, and Online Learning. Some of the exercise and sports choices are: Badminton, LaBlast Dance Fitness, Yoga, Volleyball, and Ladies Light Hiking.
For children, Lifelong Community Learning’s ever popular Kids’ Corner program is once again offering Kids’ Cooking classes. In these 1-hour classes, students will gain kitchen skills like searing, sautéing, folding, and more. They will create 1 -2 dishes per week depending on complexity and timing.
Lifelong Music Academy’s after-school music options for students in grades 3-12 are also back this year. The Band School offers beginner instruction for grades 4-5 and Honor Band for grades 6-9. The String School offers a progression of levels for grades 3-12. The Chorus School focuses on grades 3-5 with our popular Elementary Glee program. Plus, we offer one-on-one private music lessons for grades 2-12 (plus adults!) in 16 different instruments.
The Solutions Extended Day program from Lifelong Learning offers a safe and enriching program before and after school (Franklin Public Elementary Schools only) to accommodate the needs of a working family. There is limited availability at many schools right now. Check the website for details.
Currently all Lifelong Learning students who are enrolled in classes held in a Franklin Public Schools building will need to abide by the FPS mask policy which reads, “Effective August 25, 2021 all students, staff, and visitors are required to wear masks in school buildings.”
Visit www.FranklinLifelongLearning.com for full course details and to register. You may also call Lifelong Community Learning at 508-613-1480, Lifelong Music Academy at 508-613-1481, or Solutions Extended Day at 508-613-1771.
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Lifelong Learning Announces Fall 2021 Programs - Registration Now Open |
Football: 2021 Kelley-Rex Division Preview - FHS
Via @HockomockSports we share the Football: 2021 Kelley-Rex Division Preview for FHS. Link to the full league preview is found below
2020 Record: 3-4
Coach: Eian Bain
Key/Returning Players:
Jared Arone, Sr., QB; Shane Kindred, Sr., WR; Will Tracey, Sr., WR; Mack Gulla, Sr., RB; Ethan Aeillo, Sr., OL; Jack Porkorny, Sr., OL; Jonathan Martins, Sr., DL; Cullen Pek, Sr., LB; Joe Tirrell, Sr., DB; Luke Davis, Jr., DB.
"All eyes are on Mansfield and King Philip as the favorites in the Kelley-Rex and that’s how coach Eian Bain likes it. The Panthers are certainly flying under the radar a bit but that might not last very long, especially after their success during the preseason has turned some heads.Having a lot of familiar faces in key positions will be an early advantage for the Panthers, who have a strong non-league schedule that starts with Wachusett and features perennial state powerhouse Duxbury. Senior Jared Arone gained a lot of experience at quarterback during the Fall 2 season and could be poised for a big year with a full schedule on tap. Part of the reason why is because of all the weapons around him. Both Shane Kindred and Will Tracey developed a lot of chemistry with the QB in the abbreviated season and will be his main two targets this year.
And while the Panthers have developed a reputation for a pass-heavy offense, we saw a much more balanced approach during the spring and with senior running back Mack Gulla ready for a breakout season, it’s likely that balance continues. Gulla is a tough runner that will keep defenses honest; he isn’t just going to help set up the passing game, he’s a true threat to run all over defenses. It will all start up front and the Panthers have center Ethan Aeillo and tackle Jack Porkorny back in starting roles.
Senior Joe Tirrell and junior Luke Davis give the Panthers a veteran presence in the secondary. Franklin allowed over 20 points per game last season but will be looking to bring that number down some this year as they try and establish themselves as a contender in the division. Senior Jonathan Martins impressed last season and will be a key piece on the defensive line while the linebackers will be anchored by senior Cullen Pek.
“The Panthers return many familiar faces but face a tough task of replacing some key positions,” Bain said. “Many players have stepped up but there is still a lot to be answered before the home opener against Wachusett.”
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Football: 2021 Kelley-Rex Division Preview - FHS |
2021 Hockomock League Volleyball Preview - FHS
2019 Record: 12-1
Coach: Samantha Elliott
"Franklin has won at least a share of the past three Kelley-Rex titles and last year also claimed the first-ever Hock Cup. Even while graduating important players, like leading hitter Ally Bonnet-Eymard, the Panthers continue to build squads that look ready to compete for the title every season.
The strength for the Panthers is at setter. Senior Cailyn Mackintosh is a three-year starter and one of the best passers in the league. Her ability to spread the ball around and hit spots opens up the floor for the offense and makes Franklin hard to match up against. Sophomore Taylor Lacerda will be one of Mackintosh’s top targets this year following a strong freshman season on the outside. Senior Lindsey Tarantola will be the main threat in the middle and senior Brigid Earley will be back at opposite. Defensively, the Panthers will count on senior Meghan Linkkila, who will be moving from defensive specialist to libero this season, to control the back row.
“I have high expectations for these players but more importantly they have high expectations for themselves,” said second-year Franklin coach Samantha Elliott. “This team is striving to continue proving themselves and working hard to be the best they can be, and hopefully, that is another Hockomock title."
https://hockomocksports.com/2021-hockomock-league-volleyball-preview/
2021 Hockomock Football: Players to Watch on Offense - FHS
JARED ARONE, SENIOR – FRANKLIN
"Playing quarterback in an up-tempo, pass-heavy offensive set against the defenses in the Kelley-Rex division is a difficult task for an experienced signal-caller. Arone stepped behind center for the Panthers last year and got his first taste of varsity action.
Now, a few months later, Arone will try to build on that experience to make the Franklin offense even more potent. From the opening game, against a loaded Mansfield defense, Arone showed that he has the accuracy to make the offense tick and the willingness to stand in the pocket and make throws down field. He developed a better rapport with his also relatively inexperienced receivers over the course of the season and there is potential for the Panthers to be prolific in the passing game this fall.
In a division that continues to be loaded with talent, Franklin will hope that Arone can continue his growth and help the Panthers challenge perennial powers Mansfield and KP for the Kelley-Rex crown."For the complete listing
https://hockomocksports.com/2021-hockomock-football-players-to-watch-on-offense/
FHS girls soccer team opens season with 3-0 win vs. Canton
Via @HockomockSports and Twitter we share the results of FHS fall sports action on Thursday, Sep 9, 2021
Girls Soccer = Canton, 0 @ Franklin, 3 – Final
"Bigggg 3-0 win over Canton today!! Goals from Anya (2) and Riley + assists from Izzy, Riley, and Kelly O! G2 goes to Riley "
https://twitter.com/fhsgvsoccer/status/1436113472203501569
https://hockomocksports.com/thursdays-schedule-scoreboard-09-09-21/
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FHS girls soccer team opens season with 3-0 win vs. Canton |
Call for Community Input: Franklin Public Schools ESSER III Fund Survey
Call for Community Input: FPS ESSER III Fund Survey
Survey closes Wednesday, September 15th, 2021 at 4pm.
Through the American Rescue Plan, Franklin Public School District was granted $1,046,173 in ESSER III funds to be spent through June 2024. These funds will be disbursed via a multi-year plan with the goal of supporting district response during the COVID-19 pandemic. FPS is seeking input from community stakeholders as a part of the planning process. The survey will close on Wednesday, September 15th at 4pm.
Franklin Public Schools has created this survey to inform each stakeholder group of anticipated district priorities and to collect feedback around anticipated activities involving these funds. Community Stakeholders refers to students, parents/ guardians, FPS employees, Franklin residents, groups representing the interests of school children, and more. Community Stakeholder input is encouraged and accessible through this survey, which can be accessed via the link below.
ESSER III Community Input Survey |
Link -> https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfXcyoJIeIEIR-g2SJEW-s2fcQYs8W2uW10mUnZ0feUdgCHOA/viewform
More information regarding American Rescue/ Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund :
The American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act of 2021, Public Law 117-2, was enacted on March 11, 2021. The ARP Act provides additional funding for school districts to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Education portion of ARP is known as the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER III or ARP ESSER) Fund. The purpose of the ESSER III fund is to support the safe reopening and sustaining safe operations of schools while meeting students' academic, social, emotional, and mental health needs resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.
A full scope of requirements is available here: https://www.doe.mass.edu/federalgrants/esser/
Shared from -> https://www.franklinma.gov/home/news/call-community-input-fps-esser-iii-fund-survey
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Call for Community Input: Franklin Public Schools ESSER III Fund Survey |
Registration is open for 2021 Food Elves
"Registration is open for 2021 Food Elves!
Earn #communityservice hours and help fight hunger in your community.
@FHS_EmptyBowls @FranklinHS @FoodElves
#foodelves "
For more info, please visit -> https://t.co/kUiwXbrjIO
Franklin, MA: The Railroad in Franklin (video)
NATURE: A Walking Play -> Sep 24 - Oct 3
"NATURE: A Walking Play is coming to Bird Park! Don’t miss this immersive and family-friendly performance that highlights the natural world and Emerson & Thoreau’s love for nature.
Walk along with the actors as the play’s scenes unfold throughout beautiful Bird Park.
Performances at the park run from September 24-October 3. Please visit https://thetrustees.org/program/nature-play/ to order tickets.
Performances also take place at Fruitlands Museum in Harvard and Appleton Farms in Ipswich."
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NATURE: A Walking Play -> Sep 24 - Oct 3 |
Mass Cultural Council: Artist News - September 2021
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Thursday, September 9, 2021
Franklin Cultural Festival - main stage schedule for 9/12/21
The main stage schedule looks like this:
12:30 -> Franklin School of the Performing Arts1:30 -> INDIA SHOWCASE2:00 -> @ the Kid's Corner, "Puppet Showcase Theater"2:30-3:30 -> "The Pamela Means Project"3:30 -> @ the Kid's Corner, "Puppet Showcase Theater"4:00 -? Salsa Dance Instructions by RI Latin Dance School4:30 - 6:00 -> Eguie Castrillo & Mar del Norte Salsa Orchestra
- food trucks on Main St
- beer/wine garden on the Hayward Manor grounds
- artisan vendors along the Common walkways
Farmers market: Kitchen Sink Quintet plays in background for zucchini races - Sep 10
"We are excited to have the Kitchen Sink Quintet join us again this Friday. They will be performing from 4-6 PM in the Gazebo. "
Spier Family Kindness for Kids 5K and Family Fun Day - Sep 19
Greg Spier, longtime YMCA board member and community leader expressed, “My wife Kathy and I are so excited to sponsor this great event, bringing families together for healthy activities while raising awareness of our Y’s ongoing food security programs.”
Since March 2020, the Hockomock Area YMCA has provided more than 380,000 grab & go meals and more than 40,000 bags of food, valued at $50 each, to those in need in local communities.
“Patriot Place is so proud to the support the important work of the Hockomock Area YMCA to help our neighbors in these challenging times,” said Brian Earley, Vice President and General Manager of Patriot Place. “We have partnered with Greg and Kathy Spier and the Hockomock Area YMCA for many years and look forward to working with them again to host this family-friendly community event at Patriot Place on September 19.”
The 5K will begin at 8 a.m., and individuals, families and teams are welcome to run or walk. The Two Mile Youth Run and Fun Run will begin at 9 a.m. From 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., all are welcome to participate in the Spier Family Fun Day – a free family event where children can take part in activities, crafts, and more!
Online registration for the Spier Family Kindness for Kids 5K and youth races is open now through September 16. Interested participants can register for the 5K for $25 and for the Two-Mile Race for $15. There is no charge for the Fun Run, but advance registration is required. Further details and registration information is available at www.hockymca.org/5k-family-day. Attendees are also encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to “Stuff the Truck” to assist those in need.
The first 200 registrants will receive a commemorative Kindness for Kids 5K shirt and the first 200 youth to register for either the Fun Run or the Two-mile Youth Run will receive a coupon for a free month of swim lessons at the Hockomock Area YMCA. Medals will be awarded to all youth who participate.
September 19 activities timeline:
7:00 a.m. Race registration opens at Patriot Place Enel Plaza (available now at www.hockymca.org/5k-family-day)
8:00 a.m. Family Day begins, runs until 11:00 a.m.
8:00 a.m. 5K race begins
9:00 a.m. Two-mile Youth Run and Fun Run begin
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.
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.
ABOUT PATRIOT PLACE
Patriot Place is a shopping, dining and entertainment destination located adjacent to Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. Patriot Place features large and boutique retailers, 23 casual to high-end restaurants and other nightlife venues. Among the highlights of Patriot Place are New England’s first Bass Pro Shops, a state-of-the-art, 14-screen Showcase Cinema De Lux, the award-winning Patriots Hall of Fame presented by Raytheon, the retro-style bowling alley, Splitsville Luxury Lanes, the modern gastro sports pub, CBS Sporting Club, the four-star Renaissance Boston Patriot Place Hotel, the Hilton Garden Inn Foxborough/Patriot Place and Helix eSports, the region’s largest egaming center and social hub. Patriot Place is also the home of Brigham Health and Brigham and Women’s/Mass General Health Care Centers. For more information, visit www.patriot-place.com, follow Patriot Place on Twitter (twitter.com/patriotplace) or like Patriot Place on Facebook (facebook.com/patriotplace).
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Spier Family Kindness for Kids 5K and Family Fun Day - Sep 19 |