In the News: no room for fireworks this year, environmental oversight budget cuts hurt

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin

Council member Thomas Mercer said the fields at the new high school - where the fireworks would be launched - were the holdup. 

"We have not accepted the fields from the contractor," Mercer said, adding that the town would have to take ownership of the fields before it could hold the display there. "As the chairman of the building committee, I'll tell you they're not ready." 

The town, said Nutting, did not have any other proper launch locations, which would include adequate parking, decent visibility and a certain amount of space. 

"We had the state fire marshal out here, and we went everywhere," he said. "We went from place to place to place with him, and couldn't get any satisfaction."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160515/franklin-does-not-have-place-to-launch-fireworks-officials-say

"Basic environmental protections for Massachusetts residents have unraveled in the last 15 years as deep budget cuts and shifting political priorities take hold. 

The state has slashed bacterial testing of lakes, rivers and other surface water by more than two-thirds in the last decade, according to state-reported data analyzed by The Eye. Inspections of contaminated properties and waste and water sites, meanwhile, have dropped 24 percent from fiscal year 2001."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160515/years-of-budget-cuts-disarm-massachusetts-in-environmental-fight

“Everything about Daily Table is not normal”

From the Boston Globe Magazine, one of the Game Changers for 2016

"As the executive chef of Daily Table, the nonprofit grocery in Dorchester that has been an experiment in bringing food rescue efforts to the marketplace, Samad is faced with these challenges every day. The store is the creation of Doug Rauch, the former president of Trader Joe’s, who worked at the company for 31 years. 

Daily Table receives shipments of excess food donations from groceries, suppliers, and food rescue organizations throughout Greater Boston, sometimes without much warning. Then, Samad and his team must find ways to make healthy food on the fly, using creative methods to prep, prepare, preserve, and serve inexpensive food for its low-income neighborhood store, all while ensuring as little as possible goes to waste (it’s like the Food Network’s hit show Chopped, only the one with the fewest leftovers wins). Adding to the challenge: All of their prepared meals must meet their strict nutritional guidelines. Remarkably, most meals cost from $2 to $4, allowing shoppers using food stamps to get the most for their money."

Daily Table turns donations of excess food into prepared meals, most costing $2 to $4.
(Globe photo: JONATHAN WIGGS/GLOBE STAFF/FILE)

Continue reading the article online (subscription maybe required)
http://www.bostonglobe.com/magazine/2016/05/13/daily-table-mission-stop-food-waste-and-feed-hungry/z7BtUqM6uhmsPAi6CUkgHO/story.html

• For more info about Daily Table, visit them on the internet  http://dailytable.org/

Find other Game Changers online
http://www.bostonglobe.com/magazine/2016/05/12/who-made-globe-list-game-changers/F8JzcyATcJSBoPFFXDVpxL/story.html

Recap: Town Council - May 11, 2016

The recap of the Town Council meeting on Wednesday, May 11 can be found here.

• Franklin FISH

Barbara Steele presented on the Franklin FISH organization. It is an all volunteer non-profit organization that volunteers to drive folks to appointments. They have been providing this service for 43 years, number of rides has doubled over the past couple of years. Radius of about 20 miles but some do go to Boston, Providence etc. Call 508-528-2121 to volunteer.

• Council on Aging/Senior Center

Director Karen Alves provided several updates on program enhancements for the Senior Center. They are excited to be able to move upstairs to the new space in Sep/Oct timeframe. This will allow programing to be expanded. They will also conduct a survey this summer. 

Karen thanked the Town Council for their support. "We are the envy of all the Senior Centers in the area." The new space will include a conference room, a card room, the gift shop will be expanded downstairs. Upstairs there'll be a large multipurpose room. An elevator will provide access to the 2nd floor. There will also be a lending library in honor of Stella Jeon.

• Cottage Court

The issue here is that while the town has been providing some maintenance for the narrow roadway (it is still dirt/stone dust), there is no sewer service. The residences are all using septic systems. The water service is via a 'spaghetti pipe' that flows out from the center connection to each house. The residents have been paying taxes but getting services for a roadway that is private and legally the Town should not continue to do so. After discussion, the Council asked the Town Administrator to "look at our legal options."

• DPW water efficiency rebate to start June 1

The DPW will be offering rebates to residents to replace older toilets and clothes washing machine with more efficient (uses less water) models. It could be up to 200/rebate for the one clothes washer machine, or 2 toilets per household. Bring the purchase receipt to DPW to get the rebate. The program would start June 1. Links will be added to the DPW website to show what is eligible.


The published "Actions Taken" can be viewed here. The PDF contains active links to the documents for each blue link

• The Council approved funds for chip seal and crack seal work

http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Council/May%2011%202016/Resolution%2016-31.pdf

• For reference, the listing of roads planned for rework during 2016 can be found here

http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_PublicWorks/Construction_Projects/S01426F5B

repairs to the playground were completed last week, assuming inspection confirms
they are good, the playground should be able to open after May 16

My notes from the meeting recorded live can be found here

• Live reporting: Legislation through Closing
• Live reporting: Town Council - May 11, 2016
• 
  

Recap: School Committee spends time on FHS updates and choses to keep school vacations as they are for 2017-2018

The School Committee meeting this past Tuesday was a long and good one finishing after 9:00 PM.

Franklin High School presented a number of updates on the following topics:

a. Math Team - Robert Akie, FHS Teacher  

b. Robotics at FHS -  Alyssa Taranto, FHS Teacher  

c. Computer Science Programming - Jason Chetlen, FHS Teacher  

d. Poetry Out Loud - Ron DiBona and Dan Hudder, FHS Teachers  

e. Video Production - Autism Awareness PSA, Heather Moreau, FHS Teacher  

f. Science NHS - Family Science Night, Ann Butler, FHS Teacher  

g. Empty Bowls - Partnership with Franklin Food Pantry, Brenna Johnson, FHS Teacher  

h. MASS Academic Excellence Awards - Emily Waite & Domenic Narducci

Details on each of the updates can be found in the live reporting section here
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2016/05/live-reporting-fhs-update.html

Emily Waite, Dominic Narducci, School Committee Chair O'Malley, Superintendent Sabolinski

After all the high school updates, the School Wellness Advisory Committee provided an update on their work. (see link for details)

The school calendar discussion resumed with the choice between the two options. Option 1 was approved as the 'recommendation' by a vote of the committee as a whole. It was then voted to amend twice, one to make the Wednesday before Thanksgiving a full no school day, and two, to move the Professional Development Day from the Monday of the last week of August to the Friday before the Labor Day weekend. All three votes were approved 7-0. So after much ado, additional sub committee work, etc. the possibility of a change to one vacation (either Mar or Apr) from the Feb/Apr schedule the district has today will wait for the 'next time'.

When the 'final' 2017-2018 calendar is posted it should appear here
http://franklindistrict.vt-s.net/Pages/FranklinDistrict_SchoolCalDocs/index


The detailed notes taken live during the meeting Tuesday can be found here

• Live reporting: to Closing
• Live reporting: Calendar discussion and action ite...
• Live reporting: School Wellness Advisory Committee...
• Live reporting: FHS Update
• Live reporting: School Committee - May 10, 2016
• 
  

Petition to the Franklin Town Council: Plastic Bag Ban for the Town of Franklin, MA

"A single use plastic bag takes 20-1,000 years to decompose. This means that a plastic bag used once can remain in the environment for up to 1,000 years. As the bag decomposes, the chemicals from the manufacturing process, such as high density polyethylene (also known as HDPE), leach into various environments such as land and sea. On land, HDPE clogs soil and prevents aeration, causing poor absorption of water and nutrients. In marine environments, animals often mistake these bags as food. Once these organisms consume the bags, they often clog the digestive system and lead to a slow, painful death. 

In Franklin, if improperly disposed, the bags contribute to visual pollution and accumulate in nearby landfills- contributing to the startling statistic that only .25%- 1/4 of 1%- of plastic bags get recycled per year in the US. The US uses over 100 billion plastic bags per year. 

Although it might seem like a small, insignificant step for one town to ban plastic bags, no step is too small in protecting our planet. An average consumer family goes through 1,500 of these single use plastic bags per year. We have upwards of 32,000 people living in Franklin. Evidently, this is a large number of bags NOT contributing to the startling national statistics of plastic bag usage. 

This is where YOU come in. By signing this petition, not only are you pledging your support to our cause, but you are also promoting global sustainability. Your actions can make a difference- so start by signing this petition."

You can sign the petition here:

https://www.change.org/p/franklin-town-council-plastic-bag-ban-for-the-town-of-franklin-ma?recruiter=22322018&utm_source=share_petition&utm_medium=facebook&utm_campaign=autopublish&utm_term=mob-xs-share_petition-no_msg

screen grab of petition to ban plastic bags in Franklin, MA

Memorial Day - Veterans Breakfast

This event honors Franklin’s Veterans and is held at the Franklin Elks Lodge on Pond St. It is scheduled for Friday, May 27, 2016 at 9:00a.m.

Hosted by Franklin’s Veteran Agent, Dale Kurtz

Seating is limited. Sign up at the Senior Center by calling (508)-613-1315
or RSVP by email dkurtz@franklin.ma.us

one of the many war memorials on the Franklin Town Common, this one commemorates World War I

In the News: Cultural Festival applications, adult coloring at the Library

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin

The performance opportunities application for this year's Franklin Cultural District Festival is now available. 

The festival will run from July 27-30, with opening ceremonies taking place at Franklin Town Common, located on Union Street. The closing ceremonies will take place at THE BLACK BOX, 15 W. Central St. 

Applications are due no later than May 23. For information and the application: franklinsculturalfestival.org.

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160514/franklin-cultural-district-festival-releases-application

The application to propose a performance for the Festival can be found here
http://www.franklinsculturalfestival.org/2016/05/2nd-annual-franklin-cultural-festival.html

2nd Annual Franklin Cultural Festival - July 27-30

"With coloring a popular activity for children and adults, the Bacon Free Library has created a family coloring group that has become quite popular. Jain said participating in an activity like coloring makes it easier for older kids to talk with their parents and adults. 

"You don't have to make eye contact," she said. "That makes it a little easier to talk." 

Though Franklin does not have a group, adult coloring is sometimes offered on Saturdays as a special coffee and craft program, said Felicia Oti, director of the Franklin Public Library."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160514/local-libraries-show-that-coloring-isnt-just-for-kids-anymore

"This pipeline will cost us $4 billion with a tariff on our electric utility bills"

Dear Franklin residents,

Here are a few reasons why the Franklin Town Council should join Sharon and Walpole in passing resolutions against the proposed Spectra Energy natural gas pipeline that would run dangerously close to homes and the existing old pipeline.

1. The Marcellus shale fracked gas contains radon and benzene.
2. Shale fields pollute water and release greenhouse gases causing climate change.
3. Fracking has increased earthquakes exponentially.
4. There have been numerous gas explosions throughout the country.
5. A Spectra pipeline exploded on 4/29/16 in Pennsylvania destroying homes and badly burning a man.
6. Old and new gas pipes leak methane into the atmosphere causing climate change.
7. According to heetma.com there are 41 leaks in Franklin and over 20,000 in Massachusetts.
8. According to Representative Roy, if they repair 17% of the worst leaks we could save 40% of the gas.
9. There's no motivation to repair leaks as consumers pay for all the escaped gas on their utility bills.
10. According to numerous publications and recent permits most of this gas will travel to Nova Scotia for export.
11. This pipeline will cost us $4 billion with a tariff on our electric utility bills.
12. The Attorney General's independent study indicated we don't need more pipelines.
13. According to Distrigas, LNG by ship can make up the difference until we have more renewable energy.
14. There are an average of only 30 days a year when electric companies might need imported LNG.
15. There are plans for two hydroelectric lines from Quebec and for three large offshore wind farms.
16. Spectra is allowed to take as much as 150' on each side of the pipeline corridor decreasing property values and damaging the environment and possibly aquifers.
17.The future of our children and grandchildren depend on decreasing the use of fossil fuels.
18. Both Sharon and Walpole have passed resolutions against the proposed Spectra Energy pipeline.
For more information, please visit NoSpectraMa.org

Jim Hill

No Spectra sign on Franklin lawn

2016 Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP) - draft for review and comment

"Enclosed please find a copy of the Town of Franklin’s draft 2016 Open Space and Recreation Plan for your review, comment. The official comment period is 5/16/16 through 6/16/16 and a public hearing on the Draft Plan has been scheduled by the Conservation Commission on May 26, 2016 at 7:20 in the Town Council Chambers. 

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or require any additional information."

George Russell, AICP
Conservation Agent


To submits comments contact the Conservation Commission at:

Town of Franklin 

Attn: Conservation Commission 

355 East Central Street 

Franklin, MA 02038 

508-520-4929

conservation@franklin.ma.us

SECTION 1: PLAN SUMMARY

This 2016 Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP) is an update of the Town of Franklin’s 2001 and 2008 Open Space and Recreation Plans. The 2001 Plan was prepared for Franklin as well as two other communities, Bellingham and Blackstone, and addressed the region as well as each community. The 2008 OSRP document addressed only the open space and recreation issues and resources relevant to the Town of Franklin. The 2016 OSRP continues with a detailed a practical approach to preservation of public and privately owned open space through growth management techniques, public awareness, management of existing Town owned open space, enhancement of existing and development of new recreation resources and the continued protection of natural resources.

In fall 2015, the Franklin Conservation Commission assumed the task of overseeing and preparing the update of the OSRP. Assisted by Franklin’s Department of Planning and Community Development, Park and Recreation Department and Public Works Department, the Commission assessed the Town’s open space preservation and recreation needs; gathered input from residents regarding personal priorities, desires, and perceived needs; developed the OSRP’s goals, objectives, and five year action plan; and reviewed and edited draft versions of the OSRP. In addition, a re-evaluation of the accessibility of the Town's open space and recreation facilities was conducted (see Appendix C), an inventory of the Town's open space, recreation, and conservation properties (see Appendix B) was updated, and descriptions of the Town's substantial resources were compiled, updated and included in the OSRP.

Since the 2008 Plan was approved, progress has been made on the Goals and Objectives included in that Plan. Among them are:

• Through a student project working with the Conservation and Engineering Departments, installed informational signage at the DelCarte Recreation Area (Goal 1, objective 1.1)
• Created a map of the entire Town’s recreation and park areas. (Goal 1 objective 1.2) (Also objective 4.4a in the 2013 Master Plan)
• A butterfly park was constructed in the King Street Memorial Park in 2014 as a school project and it has been well received and highly successful. (Goal 1, objective 1.2)
• DCR and the Franklin Conservation Commission have permitted improvements to the SNETT trail from Prospect Street in Franklin into Bellingham. (Goal 3, objectives 3.4 & 3.5)
• A major dam renovation project, canoe launches, a boardwalk over portions of a pond and a 5-12 age appropriate playground were completed in the DelCarte Recreation area all of which increase access to all sections of the area. (Goal 2, objective 2.1, Goal 3, objectives 3.1 and 3.2) 
• Developed a 2-12 age appropriate playground at Fletcher Field (Goal 3, objectives 3.1 and 3.2)
• Developed an ADA compliant sculpture park, with walking areas and benches adjacent to the Franklin Police station (Goal 3, objectives 3.1 and 3.2)
• Erected a bridge via an Eagle Scout Project in conjunction with the Town Conservation and Engineering Departments over a stream crossing in the Town’s disk gold course. (Goal 2, objective 2.1, Goal 3, objectives 3.1 and 3.2)
• Developed a dog park at the Dacey Recreation Area. (Goal 3, objective 3.2)

The 2016 OSRP includes numerous goals, objectives and proposed actions that were the result of input from a large number of Town residents. This input was provided at two public hearings, during regular committee meetings, in letters and emails, during meetings with Town personnel and non-profit organizations, and through two citizen participation questionnaires (see Appendix F). Based on this input, it was determined that there is a desire to develop additional passive recreation areas within the Town and to improve existing recreational facilities. Specifically, Franklin’s residents’ wish for the Town to provide new bike trails, obtain and increase management of conservation lands, and provide community based areas such as bike trails, hiking trails, a youth center and swimming pools.

The open space and recreation planning process resulted in four main goals and related objectives and a five-year action plan that outlines specific tasks to meet the Town's open space and recreation goals. The goals within the updated 2016 OSRP were developed based on public input and the Conservation Commission believes these goals reflect the priorities of the Town’s residents. In general, the goals of the community should be to obtain (as needed), improve, and make fully accessible, the proper balance of active and passive recreational and conservation resources, while maintaining the community as a suburban center with a rural quality. The Town’s primary open space and recreation goals are as follows: 

GOAL 1: Increase public awareness of open space and recreation opportunities in Franklin
GOAL 2: Preserve and enhance existing Town open space resources.
GOAL 3: Maximize recreational opportunities to meet the community’s evolving needs by maintaining current inventory of facilities and programs and by providing new facilities and programs for both active and passive recreation.
GOAL 4: Protect natural, historical and cultural resources and maintain Franklin's New England character.
GOAL 5: Preserve and Protect the Town’s Water Resources.


The OSRP’s implementation, and achievement of the above goals, will require the
commitment of a broad variety of organizations and individuals, including non-profit
organizations, state agencies, resident volunteers, and Town departments, boards,
commissions, and committees. Through the combined efforts of all parties mentioned
above the Town feels confident that the OSRP can be implemented to meet the prescribed goals over the five-year planning period.

overflow parking lot at Wachusetts St for Fletcher Field

The full report can be found here or on the Town of Franklin webpage

FHS softball and girls lacrosse post wins on Friday

Baseball

• Franklin @ St. Peter Marian – Postponed to 5/15 at 12:00

Softball

• Milford, 4 @ Franklin, 5 – Final 

– Each time that Milford made a move, Franklin seemed to have an answer on Friday. The Scarlet Hawks took a 3-0 lead in the top of the fourth only for the Panthers to match it in the bottom half of the inning. Base hits from Olivia Haba and Alyssa DaSilva as well as a sacrifice fly from Julia Arms knotted the game 3-3. Milford’s Jess Tomaso (3-3) belted a solo home run in the top of the fifth but once again, Franklin had an answer. Allie Shea walked and Clara DeCarvalho’s base hit put two on. Junior Alexx Niss connected for a two run double in the inning to put the Panthers ahead 5-4. Caroline D’Aprile struck out four while scattering six hits for the Panthers. Haba came up with three catches in the final innings to help Franklin preserve the win.

Girls Lacrosse

• Franklin, 12 vs. Grafton, 7 – Final

For other results around the Hockomock League on Friday
http://hockomocksports.com/fridays-schedule-scoreboard-051316/

FHS Panthers

In the News: Senior Center expands programs, Franklin Art Center summer registration

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin

"The Town Council, at its most recent meeting, heard an update on services provided to local seniors where the subjects of mental health and substance abuse were raised. 

Senior Center Director Karen Alves spoke about upcoming initiatives to address the mental health of the elderly. She said she had recently taken a course in which the subject was covered, and was surprised to learn that older people are often an under-served population. 

"Primary care physicians are not necessarily primed to talk to older adults about depression and anxiety," she said. 

Another concern, she said, is substance abuse among seniors, something she said is an emerging trend. 

"It's called a silent epidemic because no one wants to talk about it," she said.

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160513/franklin-senior-center-to-tackle-mental-illness-substance-abuse

Franklin Senior Center

Franklin Art Center, 391 E. Central St., is now taking registrations for summer classes. Classes are available for pre-K to adults. Some new classes have been added this year. Updates will be posted on Facebook weekly over the summer.

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160513/franklin-art-center-releases-summer-schedule

SUBSTANCE ABUSE in “Our Community”

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

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

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

Agenda: 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

presented by the Franklin Odd Fellows

Winetasting Reception, Winery Tour & Entertainment

Franklin Public Schools    Lifelong Learning Institute The Center for Adult Education and Community Learning DON'T MISS OUT   REGISTER TODAY La Cantina Winery was born out of love of traditional Italian winemaking with friends and family. Since its inception, La Cantina Winery has become the premiere location for learning the process of winemaking. Winetasting Reception, Winery Tour and Entertainment at LaCantina Winery  Friday, June 10 Dear Friends:    The Center for Adult Education and Community Learning, in conjunction with La Cantina Winery, is pleased to invite you to join us on the evening of Friday, June 10 for an extraordinary experience.    You will have the opportunity to sample the award-winning wines that have become a staple at La Cantina Winery in Franklin, along with various delicious cheeses and fruits.    In addition, you will be treated to a tour of the winery AND you will be entertained by our own Brent Selby, Claflin Hill Symphony's Assistant Principal Cellist.    You won't want to miss this evening!    Friday, June 10  6:00 to 9:00 PM   $30 per person For More Information and To Register  click here

FPS- Life Long Learning, 355 East Central Street, Franklin, MA 02038 Sent by adulted@franklin.k12.ma.us in collaboration with Try it free today

Meet me at the Y for our Camp Open House on Sunday, May 22, 10:00am-1:00pm

The Hockomock Area YMCA invites residents in local communities to try out camp at our Summer Camp Open House on Sunday, May 22nd from 10:00am-1:00pm at our Bernon Family Branch (located at 45 Forge Hill Road, Franklin), at our Foxboro Branch (located at 67 Mechanic Street, Foxboro), and our North Attleboro Branch (located at 300 Elmwood Street, North Attleboro).

Learn why kids have the ‘Best Summer Ever’ when they attend our summer camps.

This outdoor-based family event will highlight activities such as camp crafts, music, summer games, camp themes, bounce house, and more for all to enjoy. Children will get to participate in and experience Y Camp hands-on. The open house is designed to provide prospective campers and parents with the chance to tour our camp facilities, meet camp directors and counselors, ask questions, and try out the many activities our summer camps offer. We will offer a special open house promotion to all who attend. Go to hockymca.org for more information.

At Camp Wiggi (Franklin), Camp WAPAWCA (Foxboro), and Camp Elmwood (North Attleboro) children look forward to built-in swim lessons, free swim, sports, gaga pit, arts & crafts, theatre, nature, games, music, archery, ropes team building, camper’s choice, fun weekly themes, special guests, field trips, STEM and more. Grades 2-5 go on weekly field trips to new and exciting places such as the zoo, scenic ponds and lakes, attend PawSox games, play laser tag, and much more. First graders stay on-site and are visited every Wednesday by such fun things as magicians, mad scientists, a petting zoo and more.

Our Hockomock Area YMCA camps are enriched further with reading, writing, and science programs to help close summer learning gaps between school years. The Hockomock Area YMCA offers 3, 4, and 5 day camp options, busing with multiple stops in the local community, as well as pre and post care from 7:00-9:00am and 4:00-6:00pm for parents in need.

Y summer camp photo

The YMCA is a mission-driven, non-profit organization that believes its programs and services should be available to everyone. For information about our financial assistance program, visit our website at hockymca.org. Scholarships are made available through the Hockomock Area YMCA’s Reach Out For Youth & Families Annual Campaign.

For more information about camp at the Hockomock Area YMCA, please visit hockymca.org or call the Bernon Family Branch at 508.528.8708, Invensys Foxboro Branch at 508.772.1353, or the North Attleboro Branch at 508.695.7001.

Upcoming Events in Franklin, MA Area: FRI 5/13/16 - THU 5/19/16

FRIDAY 5/13/16
9am   School Committee Coffee Hour at Franklin Senior Center
6pm   The Black Box Cabaret: An Unexpected Coda
6:30pm   Art Night Uncorked at the Franklin Art Center

SATURDAY 5/14/16
7am-5pm   Stamp Out Hunger Community Drive (leave non-perishable items by your mailbox)
9am-12pm   Bottle and Can Drive at FHS parking lot (supporting the All Night Party)
10am   Franklin Fives Road Race supporting the SNETT development at the Remington Middle School
12pm   FPAC Open Auditions for Little Shop of Horrors (ages 15+)
2pm   Encore Music Academy - Seniors Concert 2016
8pm   Circle of Friends Coffeehouse: Jim Kweskin and Samoa Wilson

SUNDAY 5/8/16
7am-2pm   1st Annual FPAC Yard Sale at The Black Box
8am-12pm   Celebrate Spring Breakfast by Franklin Sons of Italy at the VFW Post, Pond Street.
9am-2pm   Car Wash to benefit FHS Track and Field Boosters at Davis Thayer School
5pm   FDP’s Progressive Dinner/Restaurant Stroll

TUESDAY 5/17/16
1:30pm   Knitting Circle for Adults at Franklin Public Library (25 Kenwood Circle)
6:30pm   Teen Advisory Board at the Franklin Public Library

THURSDAY 5/19/16
3pm   Memory Cafe for Caregivers and Their Loved Ones at Franklin Senior Center
6-8pm   Opening Door to Federal Government Contracting - free seminar at Incontro Restaurant
7pm   Franklin SEPAC Workshop: Communication and the IEP presented by the Federation for Children with Special Needs.

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

Healthy Kids Day - May 14

On Saturday, May 14, the Hockomock Area YMCA is celebrating Healthy Kids Day® with a free community event that encourages kids to be active and provides families with options and methods for living healthier lives. The event will take place at Patriot Place in Foxborough from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Fun, creative, and healthy activities for children will take place at NRG Plaza, located outside The Hall at Patriot Place presented by Raytheon.

having fun at Healthy Kids Day 2015

“Our Y is excited to once again celebrate Healthy Kids Day and appreciate the support and collaboration with our good friends at Patriot Place who will host us for the fourth consecutive year,” said Ed Hurley, president of the Hockomock Area YMCA. “Healthy Kids Day reinforces the importance of our Healthy Futures initiative and encourages kids and families to keep their minds and bodies active, and live healthier lifestyles.”

“We are thrilled to once again host the Hockomock Area YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day,” said Patriot Place General Manager Brian Earley. “All of us at Patriot Place are proud to partner with such an innovative, mission-driven organization on a signature event that showcases healthy lifestyles in our community.”

Healthy Kids Day will feature active play and engaging activities throughout the NRG Plaza and parking lot, including youth and family fitness challenges, Kids Zumba classes, gymnastics obstacle courses, nutrition games, STEM learning activities, an interactive photo booth, fire and police safety, caricature art, air brush tattoos, arts and crafts, garden and planting activities, dance party, food samples and more. Join Hockomock Y Summer Camp staff for some favorite camp activities including tie-dye shirts, Gaga Pit ball games, arts and crafts and more fun. Elmo, SpongeBob and a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle will be making appearances during the event and prizes, coupons and goody bags will also be part of the day for all attendees.

Healthy Kids Day - May 14, 2016

Community partners include Healthy Kids Day event sponsors Norwood Hospital and Stop and Shop and the following Patriot Place businesses: 5 WITS, Brigham and Women’s/Mass General Health Care Center at Patriot Place, B&W Dermatology Department & Dana Farber, B&W Rehabilitation Services, Bass Pro Shops, Menchie's Frozen Yogurt at Patriot Place, Reebok, Rev’d Indoor Cycling, and Splitsville Luxury Lanes™ and Howl at the Moon. Additional community partners include: CBS Radio 103.3 AMP Team, Chestnut Dental, Children’s Melanoma Prevention Foundation, Children's Advocacy Center of Bristol County, Cooking Matters Massachusetts, Franklin Food Pantry, Fuel Up to Play 60, Mansfield Community Garden, Mass Safe Routes to School, Milford Regional Medical Center, Miscoe Hill & Nipmuc High Skippers, Norfolk DA Office School Programming, Pediatric Dental Healthcare, Plantation Products, RWL Weightlifting, Sturdy Memorial Hospital, Way Better Snacks, and WIC Nutrition Program.

The Dana Farber Blum Family Resource Center Van will be on site to provide sun safety and skin cancer-related information and screening at no cost.

The New England Kids Triathlon will be participating with information about their annual event in New England and a triathlon demonstration.

Dorel Juvenile Group will hold car seat safety checkpoints in the parking lot outside of the plaza. Families are encouraged to bring their vehicles for a check. Speak with a technician about proper car seat installation and receive useful child passenger safety tips.

“Encouraging lifelong education and an enthusiasm for learning are key components of our Y’s youth development focus. Healthy Kids Day is another forum for our Y to provide kids and families with further opportunities to learn, grow and have fun together,” said Earley, who also serves as Chairman of the Hockomock Area YMCA Board of Directors.

The community is invited to participate in the Y’s Healthy Food Access Food Drive taking place now at YMCA branches in Foxborough, Franklin and North Attleboro and other community locations. Healthy Futures Franklin will be hosting a ‘Stuff a Truck Challenge’ benefiting the Franklin Food Pantry. The Franklin Food Pantry will bring their mobile pantry truck to the event and challenge the community to fill it with healthier food items. For a complete listing of donation requests, visit hockymca.org.

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, 16 casual to high-end restaurants and other entertainment 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 16,000-square-foot CBS Scene Restaurant & Bar, the award-winning Hall at Patriot Place presented by Raytheon, the retro-style bowling alley, Splitsville Luxury Lanes™ featuring live entertainment by Howl at the Moon, and the four-star Renaissance Boston Patriot Place Hotel. 

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).

FHS boys and girls tennis top Milford

Boys Tennis

• Franklin, 5 @ Milford, 0 – Final

– The Panthers picked up their third win of the week and second in as many days, sweeping Milford. Rahul Herur, Eli Brooks and Dan Barrow swept at first, second and third singles, respectively. Tom Mancini and James Johnston won at first doubles and Tyler DiPalma and Derek Wu won at second doubles for Franklin.

Girls Tennis

• Milford, 2 @ Franklin, 3 – Final

For all the results around the Hockomock League on Thursday
http://hockomocksports.com/thursdays-schedule-scoreboard-051216/

FHS Panthers

Reminder: First Annual 5k Race - May 21

Join Emmanuel Baptist Church (EBC) in Norfolk as we put on our First Annual 5k Race for Hope!! Our goal is to create an environment where the church and community can join together in raising awareness and hope for those in our midst who suffer from human trafficking, drug addiction and other areas of injustice.

5K Run/Walk (rain or shine)

Date: Saturday, May 21, 2016

Time: Registration opens at 8:30am; Race begins at 9:30am

Location: Emmanuel Baptist Church (63 Rockwood Rd., Norfolk, MA) - Additional parking is a short walk away at the Freeman-Kennedy school located on 70 Boardman St. in Norfolk

Donations: Money raised will go towards supporting the Amirah House, a faith-based nonprofit organization located in the Boston area that strives “to provide a refuge for those seeking to break free from exploitation and heal in community on their journey toward lasting hope.” The Amirah House provides safe homes for those that want to break free from sexual exploitation. They believe each human life is sacred, created in God’s image, and therefore, worthy of love, mercy and justice. It’s their goal that each woman served at Amirah will be restored and empowered with a sense of her inherent value and God-given strengths.

We are asking all race participants to raise/donate a minimum of $25.00* to help cover the event costs.

How to participate:

1. Click "Join the Team" on the website https://www.crowdrise.com/5k-for-hope
2. Ask people to sponsor you. All of the proceeds from the race will benefit the Amirah House in Boston (www.amirahboston.org). Spread the word to your friends, family, co-workers, everyone! Help us bring hope to victims of injustice.
3. Show up on race day! Come to run, walk or just spend your morning with us as we gather together as a church and a community.

Race for Hope