Franklin Performing Arts Company Awarded Massachusetts Cultural Facilities Fund Grant For THE BLACK BOX

Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) is pleased to announce that it has received a $220,000 capital grant from the Massachusetts Cultural Facilities Fund. This prestigious grant is awarded to cultural organizations for facilities projects with demonstrated benefit to the local economy and transformative impact to the community served. 

The grant will be used to fund Phase 2 construction and improvements at THE BLACK BOX, FPAC’s new theater, music and event venue located at 15 West Central Street in downtown Franklin. “We are thrilled by the news of this award and excited for the anticipated project renovations to make accessible the facility’s second floor, complete the building’s exterior, and provide state-of-the-art lighting and sound,” noted FPAC Executive Director Raye Lynn Mercer. 

"I was pleased to work with the Franklin Performing Arts Company and the Massachusetts Cultural Council to bring these critical funds to our area, and I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead," said Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin). "Having a viable performing arts facility in our town center will breathe new life into the downtown area and be an economic boost for the other businesses. We have long valued the arts and cultural resources in our town, and this grant furthers our efforts to continue to make Franklin a great place to live, work and play." 

FPAC celebrated the grand opening of THE BLACK BOX in September 2014 with a 24th season kick-off headlined by Tony Award winner Beth Leavel and Broadway star Alexander Gemignani. With the new venue, FPAC’s production season has expanded to include five musicals, three plays and a summer festival. FPAC has also introduced Jazz, Children’s, Cabaret, New England Artists, and Artists-in-Residence Series, in addition to the company’s longstanding free Family Concert Series, helping to establish the venue as a suburban hub for great music. 

The multi-use design of THE BLACK BOX fills a need for theater, meeting and event space, and improvements to the facility’s accessibility and second-floor renovations enhance the venue’s flexibility and function. In Franklin, THE BLACK BOX provides a noteworthy cultural and community-oriented facility to anchor several town-supported renovation, building and revitalization initiatives that comprise a multi-million dollar Downtown Improvement Project. 

“The Franklin Performing Arts Company’s new theater has quickly established itself as a cultural destination in our community and across MetroWest,” said Senator Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “This well-deserved grant will advance arts, culture and creativity in our community and complement ongoing downtown revitalization efforts. I am proud that the Massachusetts Cultural Council has recognized this state-of-the-art facility as a true asset for downtown Franklin and the Commonwealth.”  

THE BLACK BOX before the snows came!

The Massachusetts Cultural Facilities Fund (CFF) is a capital grant program of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, administered collaboratively by MassDevelopment and the Massachusetts Cultural Council. To date, the Cultural Facilities Fund has made 601 grant commitments totaling $82.7 million to 350 cultural organizations from every region of the state. 

The 2015 CFF capital budget appropriation allocated $15 million for this round of funding for the acquisition, design, repair, renovation, expansion or construction of nonprofit cultural facilities across Massachusetts. The $220,000 capital grant to FPAC is the largest awarded to cultural organizations in the MetroWest region this year. Statewide, 2015 CFF grant recipients include such prestigious and renowned institutions as Boston Ballet, Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, John F. Kennedy Library Foundation, Museum of Fine Arts and New England Conservatory.

“We’re pleased to be among some of the finest cultural organizations in the Commonwealth being awarded grants this year,” stated Alan Mercer, Director of Advancement at FPAC. “While the funding is so appreciated, to be a recipient of this grant is an endorsement of our credibility as a valuable cultural asset to our community and the Commonwealth.” 

Founded in 1991, the nonprofit FPAC supports educational arts experiences, quality entertainment and outstanding performance opportunities for professional artists, community performers and students of the arts. With a focus on youth development and a commitment to live music, FPAC productions draw performers and audiences from more than 120 communities across the Boston MetroWest region, western Massachusetts and the New England states. For more information, call (508) 528-3370 or visit online at www.fpaconline.com or www.theblackboxonline.com.

“We’re now able to give students more opportunities"

In its early years, Dean College’s campus covered only one plot, consisting of four buildings, the grandest of which, Dean Hall, still stands. 

The college has a much larger footprint in downtown Franklin now, but officials say its mission has remained as humble as when founder Oliver Dean first received state approval for a charter 150 years ago. 

“We try to meet students where they are to get them where they want to go,” said John Marcus, vice president of enrollment services and marketing. 

Dean Hall on the Dean College campus

All this year, Dean will look back on its history in Franklin during a celebration of its 150th anniversary. College officials have compiled a collection of artifacts, newspaper clippings, photographs and mementos chronicling Dean’s growth.

Continue reading the Milford Daily News article here: http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20150221/NEWS/150229275/1994/NEWS#sthash.xJ19bqTn.dpuf

Upcoming Events in Franklin, MA Area: FRI 2/20/15-2/26/15

FRI 2/20   6:30pm   Art Night Uncorked: Boston Skyline at Franklin Art Center
FRI 2/20   8-9:50pm   Frozen Friday DJ Public Skate at Pirelli Arena
FRI 2/20   8pm   Black Box New England Artist Series: Robbie O’Connell

SAT 2/21   9am-4pm   Book Sale at Franklin Public Library, music performance by Betty Kushner from 9-10am
SAT 2/21   7:30pm   Black Box: Joffrey Ballet Concert Group

SUN 2/22   9am-12pm   Bag Sale at Franklin Public Library
SUN 2/22   1pm   FREE Family Concert: Irina Fainkichen at The Black Box
SUN 2/22   2:30pm   Learn Basic Wilderness Survival Skills - teens/adults - Franklin Public Library

MON 2/23   5:30-7:30pm   Community Walking: FREE Walk the Track at FHS

TUE 2/24   5:30-7:30pm   Community Walking: FREE Walk the Track at FHS

WED 2/25   5:30-7:30pm   Community Walking: FREE Walk the Track at FHS
WED 2/25   7pm   FREE Workshop: Winning Over Worries - Parenting the Anxious Child - sponsored by Franklin SEPAC - Franklin Town Hall conference room on the 3rd floor

THU 2/26   5:30-7:30pm   Community Walking: FREE Walk the Track at FHS
 
For all the Town of Franklin Public Meetings click HERE.

For event details click HERE.

*If you have any suggestions or events for the calendar, please email Renata@BetterLivingRE.com

Fiscal Responsibility: A Taxpayer’s Perspective - Mar 5th

The Franklin Republican Town Committee is proud to sponsor the following event:

What: Fiscal Responsibility: A Taxpayer’s Perspective
Who: Mass Fiscal Alliance, Paul Craney, Executive Director (speaker)
Where: Alumni Restaraunt (391 East Central St, Franklin, MA)
When: Thursday, March 5th, 2015; 7-10pm

Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance is a nonpartisan, nonprofit advocacy organization dedicated to promoting better government and right-of-center fiscal and economic policy solutions. 

They have an office near the Statehouse in Boston and their website is www.MassFiscal.org and they launched a first of its kind, online and real-time, state legislative scorecard which may be found at www.MassFiscalScorecard.org

screen grab of MassFiscal webpage

Free CPR Training - register now - Mar 7th

We are holding a free cpr training on Saturday March 7th at 1pm. Attached is a flyer.

People interested must register at https://www.nationalmedicalacademy.com and use coupon code FREECPR

Free CPR Training - register now

Why do CPR Training?
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2015/02/saving-lives-get-formally-trained-in-cpr.html

http://www.franklinmatters.org/2015/01/cpr-came-in-very-useful.html

Business After Hours Feb. 26 - 1776 Financial

The United Regional Chamber of Commerce has organized a Business After Hours on Feb. 26 at 1776 Financial, 443 E. Central St., Franklin. 

Uncle Sam in Oct 2014

In addition to plentiful networking opportunities from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., there will be an educational presentation from 4:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Retirement Planning for the Small Business Owner.

Registration is required and limited to the first 50 people. There is no charge for Chamber members; $10 for non-members. Register by calling Chamber at 508-222-0801.

Public Safety Advisory On Potential Roof Collapses

Thank you to Doug Semple, City of Attleboro Building Inspector, for forwarding this information to us. Public Safety Advisory on Potential Roof Collapses Dangers Associated With Heavy Snow Loads on Roofs The recent prolonged cold weather and repeated snowstorms have contributed to severe roof load conditions. Compounding the situation is the short-term weather forecast of possible heavy rain on Sunday.   Homeowners, tenants, and businesses need to be cognizant of the danger posed by heavy snow loads on roofs, and the warning signs of potential structural weaknesses. In some instances, the risks posed by accumulated snow on roofs can be mitigated by safely removing snow from roofs of both commercial buildings and homes. Because of the impending snow & rain storm Sunday, efforts should be undertaken now to safely remove snow from roofs.   Removing snow from rooftops will minimize the likelihood of structural collapse. Flat and low pitched roofs, most often found on industrial buildings, but are also used in certain home designs, are at the greatest risk of buckling under heavy snow and ice accumulations.   Lower roofs, where snow accumulates from higher roofs are also vulnerable.   Some potential signs of imminent roof collapse.   Tips for Homeowners in removing snow and ice from roofs and other areas. Use a snow rake for pitched roofs (available at most hardware stores) to remove snow from your roof. Start from the edge and work your way into the roof. Try to shave the snow down to a 2 or 3 inches on the roof instead of scraping the roof clean, which will risk damage to your shingles or other roof covering. Keep in mind that any metal tool could conduct electricity if it touches a power line. Also, metal tools will do more damage to your roof. Shovel snow from flat roofs throwing the snow over the side away from the building. Most plastic shovels are better, except for the ones with curved blades-those too will do some damage to your roof. Remove large icicles carefully if they're hanging over doorways and walkways. Consider knocking down icicles through windows using a broom stick. Wear protective headgear and goggles when performing any of these tasks. Consider hiring professionals to do the job. The combination of heights plus ice makes this one of the more dangerous house chores. If you don't hire professionals, at least have someone outside with you in case anything does go wrong Keep gutters and drains clean, free of ice and snow and keep downspouts clean at ground level. Tips for Homeowners in removing snow and ice from roofs and other areas DON'T   Unless approved by a registered professional engineer, don't add your weight or the weight of equipment to the roof. Don't use a ladder since ice tends to build up on both the rungs of the ladder and the soles of your boots. Don't use electric heating devices like hair dryers or heat guns to remove snow and ice. Don't use open-flame devices to remove snow and ice. According to Meteorologist Tony Petrarca, a cubic foot of dry snow weighs about seven pounds, while a cubic foot of wet snow weighs anywhere from 12 to 18 pounds. So, if it's possible, hire someone to help with all of the snow clearing. How to Recognize Problems with Roofs Sagging roofs Severe roof leaks Cracked or split wood members Bends or ripples in supports Cracks in walls or masonry Sheared off screws from steel frames Sprinkler heads that have dropped down below ceiling tiles Doors that pop open Doors or windows that are difficult to open Bowed utility pipes or conduit attached at ceiling Creaking, cracking or popping sounds Other Safety Tips for Homeowners Make sure smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working. Check outside fuel and dryer exhaust vents, making sure that they are not obstructed by snow or ice. Never use cooking equipment intended for outside use indoors as a heat source or cooking device. Never use your oven for heat. Clear snow away from furnace and dryer exhaust vents to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Ice dams can cause major damage to a home or building. Ice dams occur after a heavy snowfall, followed by several days or even weeks of very cold weather.  An ice dam is a wall of ice that forms at the edge of the roof, usually at the gutters or soffit. When it forms, the water backs up behind the ice dams and creates a pool. This pool of water can leak into your home and cause damage to your walls, ceilings, insulation and other areas. Space heaters need space, so use them in a 3-foot circle of safety; free of anything that may catch fire. Space heaters are not designed to replace your central heating system; they are only designed to provide a little extra heat on a temporary basis. So be sure to turn them off when you leave room or go to bed at night. Clear snow away from downspouts so water has a place to go. Do not be tempted to use a heat gun or open flame torch to melt the ice; the risk of starting a fire is huge. Also, please remember to shovel-out fire hydrants in/around your area in case of emergency. See the Massachusetts Emergency Management web link below for additional information about winter and fire safety tips. http://www.mass.gov/eopss/agencies/mema/  If you feel you are in immediate danger, get outside and call 9-1-1. Tips for businesses in removing snow and ice from roofs and other areas DO The same tips apply. However, if you are going to use a snow blower, make sure that it has been approved by a structural engineer to be used on a roof, and that the blower is set to a high level above the roof so as not to damage roof membrane. Use a snow rake for pitched roofs (available at most hardware stores) to remove snow from your roof. Start from the edge and work your way into the roof. Try to shave the snow down to a 2 or 3 inches on the roof instead of scraping the roof clean, which will risk damage to your shingles or other roof covering. Keep in mind that any metal tool could conduct electricity if it touches a power line. Also, metal tools will do more damage to your roof. Shovel snow from flat roofs throwing the snow over the side away from the building. Most plastic shovels are better, except for the ones with curved blades-those too will do some damage to your roof. Remove large icicles carefully if they're hanging over doorways and walkways. Wear protective headgear and goggles when performing any of these tasks. Keep gutters, downspouts and drains clean. How to Recognize Problems with Roofs in Commercial Buildings Many of the same apply - added Sagging roof steel - visually deformed Severe roof leaks Cracked or split wood members Bends or ripples in metal supports Cracks in walls or masonry Cracks in welds of steel construction Sheared off screws from steel frames Sprinkler heads pushed down below ceiling tiles Water puddles where it never has before Doors that pop open Doors or windows that are difficult to open Bowed utility pipes or conduit attached at ceiling Creaking, cracking or popping sounds What to do if you have problems Call your local building or fire official. If there is imminent danger, evacuate the building and call 911. What other assistance is available? Many fire departments have regional technical rescue teams available to local departments in case of collapse. Massachusetts Task Force 1 is an Urban Search and Rescue Team in Beverly. The team is comprised of Police, Fire, EMS and Civilians who respond to major disasters under a contract with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Currently there are 150 people on the MATF-1 team.

Forward email The United Regional Chamber of Commerce | 42 Union Street | Attleboro | MA | 02703