Franklin Art Association - meeting March 2

The Franklin Art Association will meet on Wednesday, March 2, from 6:30 to 9:00 pm at the Franklin Senior Center, 10 Daniel McCahill Street.

Franklin Art Association

Refreshments and socialization will begin at 6:30 

The program will feature Rockport artist Chris Coyne. Chris will do a watercolor demo. 

Meetings are free and open to the public. 

For more information please visit our web site at www.franklinart.org or www.facebook.com/FranklinArtAssoc

......

Chris Coyne is a Rockport Massachusetts based plein air painter working in the Cape Ann tradition. Using Gruppe's palette he paints in both oils and watercolors and is comfortable in the field or in the studio. 

A member of numerous art associations, he plies his trade from mountain to sea, producing marine art, landscapes and village scenes, as well as the occasional portrait and still life. 

Both traditionally trained and self taught, Mr Coyne enjoys giving back to the art by sharing his love of painting and art through teaching and demonstrating in the classroom and in the field. 

website: www.coynefineart.com

Upcoming Events in Franklin, MA Area: FRI 2/5/16 - THU 2/11/16

FRIDAY 2/5/16
6:30pm   Art Night Uncorked at the Franklin Art Center
8pm   Choreographer’s Concert at Dean College

SATURDAY 2/6/16
8am-1pm   Bone Marrow Registration Drive for Jennifer Felicetti at the Franklin YMCA
10am-12pm   Information Session and Building Tour of the Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School
2pm   FSPA in The Box: Grease
7:30pm   FSPA in The Box: Grease
8pm   Choreographer’s Concert at Dean College

SUNDAY 2/7/16
7:30-10:30am   Sunday Morning Breakfast at Franklin Rod and Gun Club

TUESDAY 2/9/16
6:30-8pm   Knitting Circle for Adults at Franklin Public Library
7:30pm   Franklin and Bellingham Rail Trail Committee monthly meeting at the Franklin YMCA. Public welcome.

WEDNESDAY 2/10/16
6:30-7:30pm   Open House at the Franklin High School for course selection for incoming 9th graders.

THURSDAY 2/11/16
6:30-8:30pm   Relay For Life Fundraiser: Wine Tasting, food, raffles at Pour Richard's

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

Franklin Police: Telephone scam claiming to be IRS agent

We are aware of an ongoing telephone scam where an individual claiming to be an IRS agent calls residents, states there is an arrest warrant or legal proceedings against the victim, and that the matter can be cleared up by making an immediate wire payment by such services as Western Union or Money Gram.

The IRS does not conduct business in this manner.  They will contact people by certified US mail.  They do not call and demand immediate payment to avoid criminal charges.

If you receive this type of call, hang up.  DO NOT give any information to the caller.

Thank you

Chief Stephan H Semerjian

Franklin Police Station,  911 Panther Way

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. 

Franklin Student’s Collect Clothes for Foster Children

From February 1 through February 12, the Student Government at Jefferson Elementary School in Franklin is conducting a pajama and sock drive to benefit the Friends of Foster Care and Comfort Cases for kids. All collected pajamas and socks will be included within a backpack and delivered to the children as they begin their journey with a new foster home.

Representative Jeffrey Roy and Senator Richard Ross will be visiting the Jefferson Elementary School on February 12 at 9 a.m. to present the resourceful Student Government members with citations from both the House of Representatives and Senate congratulating them for their success.

"It is the small but sincere acts, like ensuring a foster child has new warm clothes, that can make all the difference in the world in the life of a young person," said Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin). "I am heartened to see that these kids took it upon themselves to take on this project, and recognize the difference they can make in the world. I am honored to represent such a creative and thoughtful group of young people."

"Our Student Council members worked together to organize this collection to help other children," said Principal Linda Ashley. "As educators we are very proud when our students extend our school's core values of responsibility and investment to help others in our community."

"A warm pair of socks and pajamas are comforts that many take for granted, yet these items are necessities in the cold winter months," said Senator Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). "The compassionate, proactive students at Jefferson Elementary School are supporting other young people and setting a terrific example of generosity and caring in our community."

"I am so pleased that students at Jefferson Elementary School have organized such a fantastic initiative. Entering a new foster home can be hard, but a new set of clothes can go a long way to truly change someone's life for the better. These students are an inspiration for our community and I am so proud of the work they put into this," said Senator Ross. (R-Wrentham)

For anyone who may be interested in donating NEW and UNUSED pajamas and socks can feel free to bring these clothing items to the lobby of Jefferson School (628 Washington St, Franklin, MA 02038).

Jefferson Elementary School

Recognition from the MBTA on Franklin Line troubles

After a 4 hour commute on Wednesday, on top of delays on Tuesday evenings commute, the MBTA issued a letter to all the Franklin Line riders on Thursday.

letter from the MBTA

The proposed schedule line changes can be found here
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2016/02/franklin-line-schedule-changes-possible.html

Citizen Comment: Jim Hill to Town Council, Feb 3, 2016

Good evening, Mr. Chair and Fellow Town Councilors, I’m James Hill and I live at 5 Gloucester Dr.

I’m here as a follow-up to the No Spectra Natural Gas Pipeline presentation of January 6th. 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 or having to pay an additional utility fee to pay for the pipeline. And I’m not here to restate that the Attorney General and the Conservation Law Foundation reports indicate that there’s no need for another pipeline.

I’m here to share the concerns of many residents of Franklin who worry about the safety of gas pipelines. At the Spectra Energy Open House two weeks ago, we observed aerial views of the existing and proposed pipelines. We’ve been to many of these areas and observed that the current pipeline appears to be within twenty feet of some homes, and close to many others. Most of these homes were built after the pipeline was installed in 1963, and before people knew the potential dangers. According to the PHMSA, the HCAs (High Consequence Areas) are at least a 660’ radius. According to a Spectra employee, the old 24-inch Algonquin pipe contains about 700lbs per square inch of pressure and the proposed 30” line would be at least that. In some areas on the Spectra maps the current pipe and the proposed pipe appear to be very close each other.

Given the fact that there was a serious gas leak in Medway on January 5, the close location of these pipes is frightening to us. According to a January 6th Milford Daily News article, several homes were evacuated for six hours while the leak was repaired. In addition to the Medway Fire Department, the Milford, Millis and Holliston fire departments were on hand. In our opinion, the fact that the pipes, in some areas, will be within feet of each other would increase the incineration zone exponentially. If one pipeline exploded, the other probably could too. A leak and a spark would cause a catastrophic event. This could have happened in Medway or here given the fact that gas leaks are common. 

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, resulting 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.

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. 

Cathodic protection

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

We’re here to say that given the track record of pipelines and the extreme pressure and proposed location of a new pipeline, we ask that you, the Town Council members, consider the safety of our citizens and consider legal ways to protect our town from undesirable development. 

To that end I have emailed each of you a link to a document entitled “Local Government, A Guide to Pipelines” written by the Pipeline Safety Trust with a grant from the US Pipeline and Hazardous Safety Administration. Thanks for your time.

Death with Dignity Informational Presentation

A Death with Dignity Informational Presentation will take place at the First Universalist Society, 262 Chestnut Street on Sunday, Feb 28th, from 1-2:30 p.m. 

The presenter will be Marie Manis, Massachusetts Campaign Manager for Compassion and Choices, which is the leading nonprofit organization working to improve care and expand choice at the end of life.

Compassion and Choices

For more than 30 years they have increased people's quality of life and given them added peace of mind in their final days – even when injury or illness takes their voice. They work to change attitudes, practices and policies so that everyone can access the information and options they need to have more control and comfort in their final days. 

You will hear more about the national aid in dying movement and the bill currently in the MA legislature co-sponsored by 29 lawmakers, and find out what you can do to support it. 

This event is open to the public.

Franklin Public Schools: Schools Closed - Friday, Feb 5

A message from FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT

Good Morning

Based on current conditions (Slick, icy roads) and the prediction that conditions will deteriorate - All Franklin Public Schools will be closed today. 

No evening activities. School and Administrative Offices closed.

Thank you and stay safe.

from a prior snow storm

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

In the News: billboard proposal under consideration, runners help food pantry

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin

The Town Council is weighing a request for a zoning amendment that would clear the way for a company to erect an electronic billboard along Interstate 495. 

The council, meeting Wednesday night, listened to but did not act upon a presentation from local attorney Michael Doherty, representing the company iON the Ball. 

Doherty said the company was asking for a zoning bylaw amendment that would allow electronic billboards along the highway. He said the measure would be limited since state and federal regulations spell out stringent rules as to where billboards may be placed.

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160204/franklin-council-hears-billboard-plan

After the success of the group's first pre-Santa Parade run, the Tri-Valley Front Runners donated the proceeds from the event to the Daily Bread Food Pantry. 

The group this week dropped off a $380 check and three boxes of food they collected from the run, where about 90 runners took off in front of the parade, running the length of the route.

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160204/tri-valley-front-runners-donate-to-milford-pantry

In the News: MBTA Franklin Line discussed, GREASE performance this weekend

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin

Citizens heard a report on multiple aspects of the MBTA Franklin Commuter Rail Line Thursday night, with information touching on fare increases, winter preparedness, schedule changes and the issues that led to a lengthy delay the previous night. 

The meeting was hosted by State Reps. Sean Dooley, R-Norfolk, and Jeffrey Roy, D-Franklin, and State Sen. Richard Ross, R-Wrentham. 

A potential plan to change the schedule was explained by Corey Lynch, the deputy director of rail operations for the MBTA. He said the Franklin line typically saw huge spikes in ridership in one morning train and one evening train.

Franklin Line heading to Franklin/Forge Park

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160204/franklin-commuter-rail-issues-discussed

Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) will an all-student production of the hit musical "Grease" on Saturday at THE BLACK BOX, 15 West Central St., downtown Franklin. 

The powerhouse Broadway musical, with book, music and lyrics by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey, became a Hollywood movie classic starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John. With iconic characters, '50s pop culture, and electrifying rock 'n roll style, the original high school musical includes high energy dance numbers and the hit songs “We Go Together,” “Summer Nights,” “Greased Lightnin'” and “Born to Hand Jive.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160205/fspa-to-present-all-student-production-of-grease

Broadway in Franklin to feature Jenn Colella And Michael James Scott

Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) presents Broadway In Franklin: A Weekend with the Stars on February 26-28, featuring Broadway headliners Jenn Colella and Michael James Scott in a Broadway Revue of show-stopping numbers from the Great White Way.

Bringing the magic of 42nd Street to Boston's MetroWest suburbs, the Broadway Revue will be presented at 3 p.m. on Sunday, February 28, at THE BLACK BOX, FPAC’s theater, music, and event venue, located at 15 West Central Street in downtown Franklin. The show also features appearances by musical theater students and by Electric Youth. Participation in the weekend’s master classes and Broadway Revue is open to students in grades 8-12, with all abilities welcome. 

Electric Youth 2016

Electric Youth (EY), a dynamic ensemble of talented singer-dancers trained at the Franklin School for the Performing Arts, will kick off the weekend with a 7:30 p.m. show on Friday evening, February 26, at THE BLACK BOX. Backed by an eight-piece band of Boston musicians who’ve performed with music legends Tony Bennett, Aretha Franklin, Dizzy Gillespie, Diana Ross and many others, Electric Youth delivers high-energy music, including fully choreographed hits by Adele, Beyonce, The Black Crowes, Queen, Sugarland, Stevie Wonder and more. 

Guest artists Jenn Colella and Michael James Scott will lead a series of musical theater master classes at the Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) on Saturday, February 27, that will include dance workshops and coaching on song interpretation and performance skills. Rehearsals for Sunday’s revue will round out the weekend programming with the Broadway performers. For more information, including participation fee and schedule, visit www.FPAConline.com or call (508) 528-3370. 

Jenn Colella

Jenn Colella’s Broadway credits include Urban Cowboy (Sissy, Outer Critics Circle Award nomination), High Fidelity (Laura), Chaplin (Hedda Hopper) and If/Then (Anne) opposite LaChanze and Idina Menzel. Regionally she was featured as Daisy Hilton in Sideshow at the Kennedy Center, Peter Pan in Peter Pan at the Sondheim Performing Arts Center, and Georgie in The Full Monty at Paper Mill Playhouse with Elaine Stritch. 

Off-Broadway credits include Beebo Brinker Chronicles (opposite Marin Ireland), Lucky Guy (opposite Kyle Dean Massey) and the revival of Closer Than Ever. Television appearances include guest-starring roles on Cashmere Mafia (ABC), Rescue Me (FX), Can You Tell (Oxygen), All My Children (ABC), The Good Wife (CBS) and Elementary (CBS). Colella starred opposite Joseph Gordon-Levitt in the indie film Uncertainty. 

Michael James Scott

Michael James Scott originated and is currently playing the role of Minstrel in the Broadway sensation Something Rotten! He also originated the part of Doctor Gotswana in Broadway’s The Book of Mormon and was the standby for the Genie in Aladdin. 

Additional Broadway credits include Mamma Mia! (Eddie), All Shook Up, The Pirate Queen, Tarzan, Hair and Elf – The Musical. National Tours include Fosse (Male Leading Performer) and Mamma Mia! (Sky). Michael James Scott appeared Off-Broadway in Here’s to the Public with Donna McKechnie and in London’s West End revival of Hair. 

Proceeds from Broadway In Franklin weekend support Electric Youth’s 2016 European summer concert tour and EY’s mission to give back through musical performance, education and ambassadorship. 

To purchase tickets for Friday’s Electric Youth show or Sunday’s Broadway Revue, call (508) 528-3370 or visit www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com.

Franklin Federated Church: special services for Lent

Franklin Federated Church is offering two very different opportunities for people to prepare for Lent: A Jazz Worship service on Sunday, Feb. 7 at 10 AM, and an Ash Wednesday service on Feb. 10 at 7:00 PM.

Lent, which begins on Ash Wednesday, is the six-week period before Easter, what is traditionally a time of self-examination and reflection for Christians.

The Jazz Worship service is a chance to worship in a celebratory and joyful way before Lent begins. The service will feature the Willie Sordillo Quartet, with musicians Willie Sordillo on alto saxophone, David Harris on tuba and trombone, David Dubinsky on trumpet and fluegelhorn and Mark Shilansky on piano.

The Ash Wednesday service will be a more contemplative service that includes the imposition of ashes for those who wish to receive them.

All are welcome at Franklin Federated Church, located at 171 Main Street. No prior experience with church is needed! A nursery for babies is available, and activity kits are on hand in the church for children to use during worship. Large print bulletins and hearing assistance devices are also available, and there is an access ramp at the left side of the church. Find out more at franklinfederated.org or facebook.com/franklinfederated.

Franklin Federated Church

FHS girls basketball and boys hockey posts wins on Wednesday

Girls Basketball

• Franklin, 51 @ Holy Name, 48 – Final 

– Franklin battled back and took its first lead inside the final three minutes. Kristen Donaghy had 11 points to lead the Panthers and also had three steals in the final 90 seconds of play. Carli Koffinke scored nine points and both Olivia Adiletto and Aubrie Kutil scored eight points. Kutil scored the final four points for Franklin, which swept the season series with Holy Name.

FHS Panthers

Boys Hockey

• Franklin, 6 @ Stoughton, 2 – Final 

– James Aldred, Jake Downie, Joe Corsi, Jack Cameron, Adam Assad and Jeremy Miller each scored for the Panthers. Mark Sheehan and Nick Hardy each had a goal for the Black Knights.

Girls Hockey

• Franklin, 0 vs. Medfield, 6 – Final

For the remainder of the results around the Hockomock League on Wednesday
http://www.hockomocksports.com/wednesdays-schedule-scoreboard-020316/

In the News: Pond St condos?, SAFE creating drop-in service, regionalization takes a step, voter registration deadline

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin

Town Council members at their meeting Wednesday night voiced support for a condominium development on a town-owned 33-acre piece of property on Pond Street. 

The council, in a nonbinding straw poll, voted seven to one in favor of the development, which would likely involve about 85 units. A formal resolution will now be drafted and officially voted upon in a future meeting. 

The project would involve the developer purchasing the land for approximately $1.65 million. The development is estimated to bring in about $300,000 a year in tax revenue and result in a 600-car-a-day increase in traffic.

rendering of Pond St condo proposal from Town Council meeting in January 2016

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160203/franklin-council-to-explore-pond-st-condos

The Support for Addicts and Families by Empowerment (SAFE) Coalition announced this week that it would be looking to create "drop-in" treatment events - in which a number of services for addicts and their families would be brought under one roof. 

James Derick, SAFE's president, announced the initiative before a Tuesday night talk by Harvard Professor Robert Putnam. The events would feature mental health professionals, substance abuse counselors, support groups for parents, lawyers, treatment centers and Narcan training - all in one accessible place. 

"A key component to this would be engaging people in long-term recovery, or 'Recovery Angels,'" Derick said Wednesday. "They would shepherd people through detox, in-patient treatment and beyond."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160203/franklin-treatment-events-eyed-by-safe

When a small police department makes an arrest, it can put a stress on manpower and financial resources. 

The answer to those problems, Middlesex County Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian said, is the creation of regional lockup facilities run by the sheriff’s offices. 

Last week, the Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security moved a bill that would allow regional lockup facilities to be opened by sheriffs to the state Senate’s Ways and Means committee.

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160203/regional-lockup-facility-bill-passes-hurdle

The deadline to register to vote to participate in the Massachusetts Presidential Primary on March 1 is Wednesday, Feb. 10. 

This is also the deadline for registered voters who wish to change their party enrollment to another party or to unenrolled, commonly referred to as independent. This should not be confused with the United Independent Party (UIP), a party that will have ballots available but with no candidates printed on them. Voters registered in UIP will not be eligible to take a Democratic, Republican, or Green-Rainbow ballot. 

To vote for a candidate in a different party from the one in which you are now registered, the voter must switch to the other party or to unenrolled status by 8 p.m. on Feb. 10. 

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160203/deadline-next-week-to-register-to-vote-in-presidential-primary

REMINDER: Greater Franklin Node meeting this Thursday, Feb 4, 2016

Hi everyone,

We had a great node meeting last week!  It had been postponed one week due to the Spectra Open House.

To recap, we briefly reviewed the Spectra Open House experience and spent the bulk of our time focusing on figuring out possible details of a Q1 Loop-wide Public Forum for the end of March.

As we discussed, Sharon and Walpole are fairly centrally located along the length of the proposed pipeline route, so we decided I'd ask Sharon if they'd be interested in hosting the forum in their town.  It turns out they just recently started organizing a forum for the same time frame, the end of March, to which they were going to invite all the towns in the Q1 Loop!  They have already invited speakers from the Attorney General's Office and the Conservation Law Foundation, so far.  There will be an extensive Q and A afterwards.  A specific date has not been set yet, but stay tuned!

one of the Franklin lawn signs

This Thursday, February 4, at our next meeting we'll focus on how we can ramp up outreach in each of the towns for the next two months which will include inviting town officials and town citizens to the forum. 

So come to our meeting this Thursday night, Feb 4, at 7:00 pm, at First Universalist Society in Franklin, 262 Chestnut Street, Franklin.

See you Thursday!

Carolyn

Bone Marrow Donor Registration Drive - Sat Feb 6

Jennifer Felicetti is a loving wife, mother and friend with a passion for life. Just this past Christmas Eve, she was admitted to her local hospital, unaware that her life was about to take a drastic turn. 

A few days later, Jennifer was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). While she is currently undergoing aggressive treatment, her doctors believe Jennifer’s best shot will likely be a bone marrow transplant. With no matching donor in her family, Jennifer will be forced to enter the nerve-wracking search for an unrelated donor.

Jennifer currently resides in New Jersey, but she still maintains close relationships with her friends and family in Franklin. Her supporters have teamed up with Delete Blood Cancer DKMS to host a bone marrow donor registration drive in her honor, hoping to register more potential matches for her and every other patient in need of a donor outside of their family. 

The event will take place on Saturday, February 6th from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Franklin YMCA at 45 Forge Hill Road in Franklin, MA.

Every day thousands of patients search for a bone marrow donor match, but less than half will find a match and receive a transplant. Registration is quick and simple, involving the completion of a registration form and swabbing the inside of the cheeks. Most in good health between the ages of 18-55 are eligible. For those who cannot make it to the drive, you can find more information and register online at DeleteBloodCancer.org.

About Delete Blood Cancer DKMS

Delete Blood Cancer DKMS is part of the world’s largest network of donor centers. Our mission is to build the number of suitable bone marrow and stem cell donors, because we believe that no life should be lost due to an inability to find a donor match. We have registered more than 5.9 million potential donors and facilitated more than 53,000 transplants around the world. But we’re not stopping there. We lead the fight against blood cancer by working with families, communities and organizations to recruit donors and provide more patients with second chances at life.

blood stem cell registry process

For more information or to register as a bone marrow donor, please visit DeleteBloodCancer.org.

Franklin Commuter: new features on mbtatrains.com

mbtatrains.com now has alerts to give you more information about what's happening on the commuter rail! More details here.  Happy riding! You are receiving this email because you opted in at our website https://mbtatrains.com.

This has been my prime app to keep up with the issues on the wonderful Franklin Line. The only issue with the app (thus far) is that when things get real bad (as in the last couple of days), the app is good in showing the trains stack up. Unfortunately, once the trains run too late, the MBTA stops sending an update. So the app is stuck with no data on a late train and all of a sudden the line clears when it is not really clear. The app folks are aware of this....

image from 2/2/16 with 4 trains stacked up at Ruggles

Franklin School for The Performing Arts Presents GREASE

Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) presents an all-student production of the hit musical GREASE this Saturday, February 6, at 2 and 7:30 p.m. Performances will be staged at THE BLACK BOX, 15 West Central Street, in downtown Franklin.

The powerhouse Broadway musical, with book, music and lyrics by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey, became a Hollywood movie classic starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John. With iconic characters, '50s pop culture, and electrifying rock 'n roll style, the original high school musical includes high energy dance numbers and the hit songs “We Go Together,” “Summer Nights,” “Greased Lightnin'” and “Born to Hand Jive.”

Performances are Saturday, February 6, at THE BLACK BOX 

The production features FSPA students in all levels of musical theater as the memorable teens of Rydell High, including greaser Danny, girl-next-door Sandy, the T-Birds and Pink Ladies. FSPA’s production of GREASE is directed by Raye Lynn Mercer, with music direction by Hallie Wetzell.

Featured cast members include Brian Barrett (Eugene) of Foxborough; Jason Barney (Roger), Julia Buccella (Patty Simcox, evening), Brooke Collins (Rizzo, afternoon), Kendra Dombroski (Sandy, evening), Aaron Frongillo (Danny), Collin Hancock (Vince Fontaine), Jocelyn Jones (Miss Lynch), Catherine LeClair (Frenchy, afternoon), Akira Ontsuka (Kenickie), Deanna Rivera (Jan, evening), Katharine Waples (Marty, afternoon), Caitlin Woodcock (Jan, afternoon), and Melissa Wyner (Cha-Cha, afternoon) of Franklin; Caroline Merten (Cha-Cha, evening) and Joey Soares (Sonny) of Hopedale; Sam Evans (Johnny Casino) and Colie Vancura (Sandy, afternoon) of Medfield; Maddy Williams (Frenchy, evening) of Medway; Katie Gray (Marty, evening) of Milford; Nicholas Steiner (T-Bird) of Millis; Mairead Nee (Patty Simcox, afternoon) and Griffin Wilkins (Doody) of Walpole; and Jenna McDermott (Rizzo, evening) of Wrentham.

GREASE is one of several FSPA all-student productions that will be staged at THE BLACK BOX from February through May. Others include the plays Metamorphosis and Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves; the ballets Class Concert, Graduation Ball and Western Revelries; and a program of Opera Scenes and Arias.

Tickets are $24 for adults and $20 for students and seniors. For more information, call (508) 528-8668. To purchase tickets, visit www.FSPAonline.com. GREASE is presented by special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc.

FHS wrestling and girls hockey teams post wins on Tuesday

Wrestling

• King Philip, 21 @ Franklin, 49 – Final

FHS Panthers

Girls Hockey

• Franklin, 5 @ Ursuline, 1 – Final

For the remainder of the results around the Hockomock League
http://www.hockomocksports.com/tuesdays-schedule-scoreboard-020216/

Dr Putnam shares on the social class issues

These are my notes from the talk Dr Putnam presented on Tuesday as part of the SAFE Coalition meeting at Horace Mann Middle School.

Dr Putnam pointing out details on the map of Port Clinton, OH

Be sure to scroll within the Storify widget to review all the notes

Dr Putnam pointing out details on the map of Port Clinton, OH

chart showing the lack of diversity by income in residences

chart showing parental investments in their children

chart showing relationship of family dinners and extracurricular activities to income levesl 

chart showing community involvement ans social trust by income levels

family income matters more to get to college than the individuals ability

"There is reason for optimism"

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin

"Historically, Americans have not been very worried about income disparity," he said. "There's not a lot of resentment in America toward Bill Gates and Warren Buffet, on the assumption that we're all getting on the ladder at the same point." 

The problem, he said, is that class segregation has grown as well, meaning well-off and poor Americans are interacting less and less over the years. 

"Now, increasingly, Americans are concentrated in rich neighborhoods or in poor neighborhoods - fewer and fewer live in mixed or moderate income areas," Putnam said. "It even shows up in things like intermarriage rates; we tend not to marry people who we've not met."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160202/franklin-harvard-professor-speaks-at-horace-mann-school

Dr Anne Bergen talked with Dr Robert Putnam after his presentation

Health Management Programs Offered at the Hockomock Area YMCA

Right now, our country faces an epidemic of obesity and related chronic disease. In communities across the country, the Y is a leading voice on healthy living. The Y brings families together, encourages good health and fosters connections through fitness, sports, fun and shared interests. As a result, millions of youth, adults and families receive the support and resources they need to achieve greater health and well-being.

The Hockomock Area YMCA is at the forefront of preventing chronic disease through the non-profit organization’s health management initiative known as Prescription for a Healthy Lifestyle Programs showing measurable results in the fifteen communities it serves. Programs like the YMCA Diabetes Prevention Program and Enhance Fitness help make a positive difference in the lives of individuals diagnosed with or are at risk of a chronic disease.

Hockomock YMCA

The YMCA Diabetes Prevention Program is designed to support adults that are at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes and reduce their risk for developing the disease. This 1-year program, consisting of 24 sessions, provides a welcoming environment where participants work together in a small group to learn about healthier eating and increasing their physical activity. This classroom based program can be offered outside of YMCA walls in a community setting and is facilitated by a Y-USA trained facilitator.

Did you know 86 million Americans (that’s 1 out of 3 people) are living with pre-diabetes but only 11% are aware since? The YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program is an evidence-based program designed to support adults that are at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes and reduce their risk for developing the disease. This 1-year program, consisting of 26 sessions, provides a welcoming environment where participants work together in a small group to learn about healthier eating and increasing their physical activity. This classroom based program is facilitated by a Y-USA trained facilitator and includes a YMCA membership. The Diabetes Prevention Program will be free of charge to any individual who is referred by a Sturdy Memorial Hospital-affiliated Practitioner through a grant provided by Sturdy.

Learn more by taking a simple 7 question lifestyle questionnaire at hockymca.org or stop by one of three informational sessions in the next month. A director from our Health Innovation team and the Program Coordinator will be available to discuss the program and answer any questions. Diabetes Prevention Program informational sessions will be held on:

• Wednesday, February 3rd at 5:30pm at the Invensys Foxboro Branch, 67 Mechanic Street in Foxboro
• Thursday, February 4rd at 10:15am at the North Attleboro Branch, 300 Elmwood Street in North Attleboro
• Thursday, February 11th at 12:15pm at the Bernon Family Branch, 45 Forge Hill Road in Franklin

For more information about the Diabetes Prevention Program please contact Donna Higgins at donnah@hockymca.org or 508-772-1310.


The Hockmock Area YMCA is also encouraging community members to stop by to try a free Enhance Fitness Class. Enhance Fitness is an evidence-based program designed to safely increase participants' fitness levels through aerobic and strength training exercises while building a sense of community and social connectedness among class members. Enhance Fitness has been proven to increase participants' strength, balance, flexibility, mood, general activity level, and independence when they attend on a regular basis. This program meets three times a week and is beneficial for older adults, but has been deemed particularly safe and effective for adults living with arthritis. Class is free to YMCA members and $100 for non-members for a 16-week session. Enrollment is ongoing and you can join at any time. For more information, call Vickey Marini at 508-772-1310 or email vickeym@hockymca.org.

Through March, stop by and try a class for free! Session enrollment is ongoing and classes currently meet:

• Monday, Wednesday Friday at 11:00am at the Bernon Family Branch, Franklin (45 Forge Hill Rd)
• Tuesday, Thursday, Friday at 12:15pm at the Invensys Foxboro Branch (64 Mechanic Street)


The Hockomock Area YMCA has the following additional supportive programs for individuals and for more information, please contact Donna Higgins at 508-772-1310 or donnah@hockymca.org.

• MS Wellness for individuals living with Multiple Sclerosis
Tuesdays, 10:00am at the North Attleboro Branch beginning in March

• Post Cardiac Rehab for individuals who have completed a Cardiac Rehabilitation Program
Groups beginning in all branches through March

• Exercise is Medicine for individuals living with Type 2 Diabetes

Thursdays, 7:00am at the North Attleboro Branch in February
Thursdays, 1pm at the Bernon Family Branch, Franklin beginning in February


• PAC for youth with a high Body Mass Index (BMI)

Tuesdays,6:00pm at the North Attleboro Branch in February Programs at our Invensys Foxboro Branch and Bernon Family Branch, Franklin in March

• LIVESTRONG at the YMCA Program for Cancer Survivors
Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6:00pm at the Invensys Foxboro Branch in February
New programs will begin based on interest

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