FHS gets by St John's in OT to take 1st D1 Central title

"For the past three seasons, the Franklin Panthers have had their season come to an end at the hands of St. John’s Shrewsbury. 

Not this year. 

The Panthers clawed back from an early deficit, took their first lead in the fourth quarter and came up with a big defensive stop in overtime to get the 67-64 win to claim the program’s first ever D1 Central Sectional title. 

“It feels great,” said Franklin head coach CJ Neely. “A lot of people were saying we can’t beat St. John’s, we hear it everywhere. I down play it as much as possible, we didn’t want to focus on one team too much. We waited until we had them on the schedule then we focused on them. I think every year it’s been a pretty good battle, I don’t think we were ever dominated but it’s nice to be on the right side of things for once.” 

Franklin will play Springfield Central (West sectional champion) on Tuesday, March 14th at the DCU Center at 7:30."

Continue reading the game recap online
https://hockomocksports.com/franklin-boys-basketball-claims-first-sectional-title-in-overtime/

For the HockomockSports.com photo gallery from the game
https://hockomocksports.smugmug.com/20162017/Winter-201617/Franklin-St-Johns-Shrewsbury-Boys-Basketball-03-10-17

DIVISION 1 CENTRAL SECTIONAL CHAMPIONS!!!!!! #Pantherpride #LETSGO pic.twitter.com/FqdgRyma8k

MIAA DIV1 CENTRAL CHAMPS, Franklin Panthers vs. DIV1 WEST CHAMPS,Springfield Central on Tues night, 7:30 at DCU Center in Worcester #LETSGO pic.twitter.com/URvRMoH2zJ

— FranklinAthletics (@FHSSports) March 11, 2017

DIVISION 1 CENTRAL SECTIONAL CHAMPIONS!!!!!! #Pantherpride #LETSGO pic.twitter.com/FqdgRyma8k

— FranklinAthletics (@FHSSports) March 11, 2017

And here we go!!!! Central Sectional Final is underway! pic.twitter.com/Q81MH1PVjs

— FranklinAthletics (@FHSSports) March 10, 2017

Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail - Meeting - March 14, 7:00 PM

View this email in your browser Franklin and Bellingham Rail Trail Committee Monthly Meeting Tuesday, March 14th On Tuesday, March 14, 2017, the FBRTC will hold a meeting at the YMCA in Franklin.  Items on the agenda include a discussion of upcoming events (including our May 6 Road Race and April trail clean-up), the recruitment and retention of volunteers, and the Prospect Street crossing. The meeting is open to all and we welcome your input and participation. We look forward to see you on Tuesday.   Download this month's agenda (139 KB) Copyright © 2017 Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail Committee, All rights reserved. Our mailing address is: Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail Committee PO Box 68 Franklin, Ma 02038

Daylight Savings this Sunday, March 12th

In the News: youth baseball clinic; things to know about filing tax returns

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

"The 21st Annual FHS Panther Youth Baseball Clinic for players 7-13 will be held in the Franklin High School gym, 218 Oak St., Franklin on March 18. 

Players can sign up for 9 a.m. -11:30a.m. or 12-2:30 p.m. 

The fee is $40 per player and is geared to youth players ranges 7-13. The clinic will be run by FHS varsity head coach Zach Brown, his coaching staff and varsity players. Participants will work with FHS baseball players and coaches while going through a series of stations that will focus on helping them improve their fundamental skills in preparation for the upcoming spring season."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://franklin.wickedlocal.com/news/20170310/franklin-high-to-host-youth-baseball-clinic

FHS Panther Youth Baseball Clinic (ages 7-13) on March 18 is quickly approaching. See link below for additional info https://t.co/RPkG2OQ8pf

— FHS Baseball (@FHSCoachZBrown) March 10, 2017

"As the deadline to file state and federal income tax returns approaches, millions of Americans are getting their paperwork in order, pulling out their calculators or making appointments with tax pros. 

Each year, there are several changes to state and federal tax codes that could affect taxpayers payments or returns. Here are 10 changes to know about doing your taxes. 

Due date: Taxpayers will get a few extra days, until April 18, to file this year. Because the normal due date of April 15 falls on a Saturday this year, and the following Monday is both Patriots Day in Massachusetts and Emancipation Day in Washington, D.C., taxpayers have until Tuesday, April 18, to file their 2016 returns. 

Lower state rate: Because the state met certain economic benchmarks, the Massachusetts personal income tax rate has fallen to 5.1 percent for tax year 2016, down from 5.15 percent the previous year."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20170310/10-new-things-to-know-about-taxes

7th ANNUAL SEPAC COMEDY SHOW SATURDAY, APRIL 8TH

The 7th ANNUAL SEPAC COMEDY SHOW

SATURDAY, APRIL 8TH

CBS Scene, Patriot Place, Foxboro

It is that time of year again!! The 7th Annual Comedy show to benefit Franklin SEPAC is being held on Saturday, April 8th at CBS Scene, Patriot Place. 

We are bringing back comedian, Ray Harrington, the star of last year's show, to headline this year’s performance. Enjoy good food, drinks, lots of laughs, and chances to take home fabulous items through the silent auction, food frenzy and raffle. 

All proceeds raised will fund SEPAC’s speakers and social events. Tickets are on sale now on our website: www.franklinsepac.org!! If you cannot attend but would like to contribute, we welcome any and all donations. 

Please email us at franklinsepac@gmail.com with any questions.
Hope you can make it!!

7th ANNUAL SEPAC COMEDY SHOW SATURDAY, APRIL 8TH

Upcoming Events in Franklin, MA Area: FRI 3/10/17 - THU 3/16/17

FRIDAY 3/10/17
10:30am   Knitting Circle for Adults @ Franklin Public Library

SATURDAY 3/11/17
10am-2pm   Electronic Recycling Drive @ BFCCPS
10am-1pm   Franklin Historical Museum Open
10:30am   The most famous Irishman who never was @ Franklin Historical Museum
7:30pm   SOLD OUT - Disney’s Beauty and the Beast @ The Black Box
7:30pm   Lonely Heartstring Band @ Original Congregational Church in Wrentham

SUNDAY 3/12/17
7:30-10:30am   Sunday Morning Breakfast @ Franklin Rod and Gun Club
8-11am   Best Buddies Spin-a-thon Fundraiser @ Team Fitness Franklin
2pm   SOLD OUT - Disney’s Beauty and the Beast @ The Black Box
3-6pm   Pet CPR and First Aid Certification Class @ Destination Dog

MONDAY 3/13/17
4pm   WordPlay @ Franklin Public Library
7-8:30pm   Learn To Cope Franklin Chapter Meeting @ FUSF
7pm   Open Auditions for The Crucible @ The Black Box

TUESDAY 3/14/16
1pm   Franklin Downtown Partnership Networking Luncheon @ Dean College
7pm   Franklin SEPAC: Helping Children Cope @ Horace Mann MS
7pm   Yankee Quilters Guild Meeting (prospective members welcome) @ St. John Episcopal Church
7:30pm   Franklin and Bellingham Rail Trail Committee Public Meeting @ Franklin YMCA

WEDNESDAY 3/15/17
5pm   Pageturners Tween Bookclub @ Franklin Public Library
6:30-7:30pm   Doggie Tales (read to a service dog, grades 2 and up, registration required) @ Franklin Public Library
7:30pm   Franklin Newcomers Monthly Meeting @ 3 Restaurant

THURSDAY 3/16/17
3pm   Memory Cafe for Caregivers and their Loved Ones (free, registration required) @ Franklin Senior Center
4pm   Family Coloring Book Club @ Franklin Public Library
6-8pm   Family Science Night (hands on STEM, K-8 students and family) @ Franklin High School
7pm   S.A.F.E. Coalition Forum: Dr. Ruth Potee: Brain development and teenage risk taking @ Franklin High School
7-8pm   Healing Hearts Community Support Group @ Franklin YMCA
7:30pm   Stony Brook Camera Club @ Anglican Church of the Redeemer (31 Hayward St)

For the Town of Franklin Public Calendar click HERE.

For all other events and Franklin happenings click HERE.

*If you have any suggestions or events for the calendar, please email FranklinMAHappenigs@gmail.com and/or shersteve@gmail.com

Franklin Almanac - Episode 3

If you missed the broadcast via cable, you can catch up to Episode 3 via the YouTube link. Polikseni Manxhari hosts segments on

• Horace Mann Educational Associates (HMEA)
• Franklin AAA office offers RMV services to members
• the Franklin Chapter of Neighbor Brigade
• Franklin's new WFPR 102.9 FM

Find out more about each of the organizations featured in this episode

• Horace Mann Educational Associates (HMEA)  https://hmea.org/
• Franklin AAA office offers RMV services to members   https://www.southernnewengland.aaa.com/branches/franklin-branch-office
• the Franklin Chapter of Neighbor Brigade  https://app.betterimpact.com/PublicOrganization/d344e590-7541-488a-8594-34b5f451db96/1
• Franklin's new WFPR 102.9 FM  http://www.franklin.tv/

Polikseni Manxhari hosts Franklin Almanac Episode 3

Reminder: Cultural Festival Application Deadline Extended to March 17

The deadline has been extended to March 17! Maybe the luck of the Irish are in your favor ... submit your application today!

 
The Franklin Cultural District Festival Committee is pleased to announce that it will be hosting the 3rd Annual Franklin Cultural Festival from Wednesday, July 26 to Saturday, July 29, 2017. 

The Festival will take place in various locations in downtown Franklin including: THE BLACK BOX (inside and outside on its stage), the Brick School, the Historical Museum, the Town Common, the Franklin United Methodist Church, and Franklin High School.

To highlight and support all presenters, the Festival Committee is seeking Performing groups/individuals, Visual Artists, and area Restaurants/Food Service businesses to participate in the Festival.

• Applications are to be submitted by 5:00 PM March 17, 2017

The working draft schedule (locations and times - performances to be filled in)
http://www.franklinculturaldistrict.org/2017/01/the-working-draft-schedule-for-3rd.html

Application for the 3rd Annual Franklin Cultural Festival

Franklin Arts Academy Boosters Hosts Wine Tasting Fundraiser - March 23

The Franklin Arts Academy (FAA) Boosters will be hosting a Wine-Tasting Fundraiser at Pour Richards Wine and Spirits, 14 Grove St, Franklin on Thursday, March 23rd from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. 

Franklin Arts Academy is part
of Franklin High School

The proceeds will be used to fund FAA student field trips, program events and scholarships for FAA graduating seniors. Pour Richard’s has graciously offered to host the event and will also be donating a portion of sales proceeds to the FAA Boosters. 

Pour Richard’s also offers a wide variety of beer and spirits. For more information or to reserve your $5 tickets please contact Karen Glynn at faaboosters@gmail.com. Tickets will be available at the door for $7.

Kids' Corner: Art, Science, Yoga & Cooking Fun

Kids Corner Spring - Still Time To Register

Franklin Public Schools                Lifelong Learning Institute The Center for Adult Education and Community Learning Art, Science, Yoga, and Cooking Fun All At Kids' Corner      Kids' Corner Franklin…..       Where fun and learning meet    Kids' Corner Franklin, a program of Franklin Public Schools Lifelong Learning Institute and The Center for Adult Education & Community Learning, is a unique collection of after school activities for children with the goal of making learning fun.    Classes are small, relaxed and designed to encourage children's creativity……a place where fun and learning meet.    Click on the yellow button below and explore the opportunities we have created just for kids.                 Download Flyer Check Out The Classes Here....and Register Today  www.FranklinLifelongLearning.com adulted@franklin.k12.ma.us  508-613-1480

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

Franklin Public Schools: Schools are opening on Schedule Friday, March 10

Just received via Twitter

@FranklinPSNews Regroup : Franklin Public School District » All » Franklin Schools ON as scheduled Friday 3/10/17 https://t.co/89vZSkKndn

— Peter Light (@lightp) March 10, 2017

Good Morning,

All Franklin Public Schools are ON AS SCHEDULED for Friday, March 10, 2017.

After consulting with local officials, the forecast for Franklin calls for 1-3 inches of snow beginning during the early commute and ending by late morning/early afternoon. Total accumulations are expected to be in the lower range of the forecast. The DPW began pre-treating roadways at 3:00 AM and will continue to be active throughout the day.

As a precaution, emergency bus service is in effect and drivers have been notified to pick up walkers as needed. As always, parents may use personal discretion if you believe conditions necessitate keeping children home from school due to the weather conditions. Additionally, parents of student drivers may wish to consider driving students to school and/or reminding student drivers to exercise additional caution and leave extra time for commuting. Parking lots may be less favorable as the day progresses.

Thank you.

Sincerely,

Peter Light
Assistant Superintendent of Schools

FHS sign board at sunrise a couple of weeks ago

"looking to raise awareness throughout the town"

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

"A group of Franklin High School students is gearing up for their annual "Spring Fling" - an event they put on for the town's senior citizens. 

The event, hosted by the school's National Honor Society chapter, is scheduled to take place on Sunday, March 19 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Franklin High. 

High school teacher and NHS advisor Ann Ritchie said the event has taken place in at least the last three years. 

"It's a day out for the senior citizens of Franklin, in which they can meet and interact with the young folks," she said. "(The seniors and the students) can sit around and talk, get to know one another, and there are different activities as well."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20170309/franklin-high-to-host-spring-fling

Franklin Senior Center has a sign up list for the "Spring Fling"

Circle of Friends Coffeehouse: The Boxcar Lilies - March 18

The Boxcar Lilies with special guest Mike Laureanno March 18th View this email in your browser THE BOXCAR LILIES with Mike Laureanno March 18th 8PM $20 Combining spine-tingling three-part harmony and savvy songwriting, The Boxcar Lilies have made a name for themselves with their signature mix of folk, country, blues, and bluegrass-tinged Americana music. Though each member of the Massachusetts-based trio has a distinct and exceptional singing talent, Jenny Goodspeed (electric bass), Stephanie Marshall (washboard, cajón), and Susan Cattaneo (guitar) deftly weave their voices into a delicious whole – a sound that is sometimes delicate, sometimes gritty, but always innovative and soul-stirring. Their trademark harmonies may have put the band on the Americana music map, but their genuine and charming stage presence and off-the-cuff banter helped keep them there. They've brought their engaging live show to venues across the Northeast and beyond, including The Iron Horse Music Hall, Caffé Lena, Club Passim, and Philadelphia's Tin Angel.  http://www.boxcarlilies.com/ "When we think of great harmonies in the contemporary roots music world, we think of bands like The Wailin' Jennys or Red Molly. We can now add The Boxcar Lilies to that list." --The Recorder (Greenfield, MA) Mike Laureanno hails from Fall River, MA an old mill-town infamous for its axe wielding resident Lizzie Borden and the occasional songwriter. He is a 2016 Kerrville New Folk Finalist and a 2016 Woody Guthrie songwriting contest winner. A passionate performer, Mike's songs are visceral and evocative and many of them deal with his gritty blue collar hometown and the lives of his family and friends. Mike has released two albums to date, Pushing Back Wintertime (2013) and Road Signs (2015). He plans to release his third album Tightrope in March of 2017.  http://www.michael.laureanno.com/ The Circle of Friends Coffeehouse is a non-profit organization affiliated with Franklin's First Universalist Society. Concerts are presented in a smoke free and alcohol free environment at the Society's handicapped accessible Meetinghouse, 262 Chestnut St. in Franklin, and begin at 8:00 PM; doors open at 7:30 PM. Beverages and gourmet desserts will be available. Admission is $20. Please call (508)528-2541 or visit http://www.circlefolk.org/ to purchase tickets or for more information.  Upcoming Shows Apr 1        Brother Sun Apr 22      Livingston Taylor May 6       Catie Curtis

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

Second Annual 'Party For The Pantry' - March 31 - 7:00 PM

"This event puts the FUN in FUNdraiser! Join us for a night of live music, raffles and SUPER raffles to benefit the Franklin Food Pantry.


Mar 31, 2017 7:00 PM at THE BLACK BOX

Musical line up includes FOUR bands this year consisting of local musicians who are donating their time to give back to the community. It's local musicianship at it's best!!!

Here's the lineup for the night...

Karate Show
The Abe Froman Project
South Street Six
Charity Case

Bring lots of money for the raffles and cash bar!

What is a SUPER raffle you ask? A SUPER raffle is an item that is valued at over $100. Your winning ticket will allow you to choose any SUPER raffle item left on the table!


Purchase tickets online -->>  http://partyforthepantry2017.bpt.me/

ABOUT THE FRANKLIN FOOD PANTRY

Second Annual Party For The Pantry - March 31 - 7:00 PM

The Franklin Food Pantry offers supplemental food assistance and household necessities once a month to eligible households. Bread and fresh produce is available daily for clients.

Typical clients include working families trying to make ends meet, people experiencing a temporary job loss, individuals whose SNAP (food stamps) benefits are reduced, and seniors. A growing number of seniors are seeking help from the Pantry since most are on a fixed income and are impacted by such things as medication costs and higher fuel expenses.

As a private, nonprofit organization, we depend entirely on donations from community members, corporations, foundations and other strategic partners. We receive NO funding from the town or state.

There is no charge to clients for Pantry items or services.

Programs include 

• a Mobile Pantry which delivers food monthly to select neighborhoods where people have difficulty getting to the downtown location
• Cooking Matters classes that teach families how to shop smarter and cook delicious, affordable meals
• a Healthy Futures Market that offers fresh produce from June to October. The high cost of fresh fruits and vegetables can be a barrier to wholesome nutrition for many families.

Emergency food bags and seasonal items, such as holiday meal packages, are also provided. Learn how to get help.

Because we are a client-choice pantry, visitors are empowered to select only what they need to meet their own personal dietary needs. Many pantries provide fixed boxes of food where clients do not have an opportunity to choose their items.

Only residents of Franklin can officially register with the Pantry to receive ongoing support. However, emergency packages of food are provided to those in need who come to the Pantry for hunger relief.

As a member agency of The Greater Boston Food Bank (GBFB), the Franklin Food Pantry is part of the GBFB objective of providing at least one meal a day to those in need."

Franklin Police and Fire Local's St Patrick's Day 5K - March 19

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

"A 5-kilometer race later this month will aim to both celebrate the St. Patrick's Day holiday and raise funds for the town's police and fire unions. 

The race - the Franklin Police & Fire Local's St. Patrick's Day 5K - is set to kick off from 55 Constitution Blvd. on Sunday, March 19 at 10 a.m. Registration begins at 9 a.m. 

Chris Schmall, a firefighter who is organizing the race, said this year's event is looking to build off, or at least equal, the success of the first race last year. 

"This is our second annual race," he said. "Last year, we had about 220 people, and we're expecting the same this year."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20170308/st-patricks-5k-set-for-march-19-in-franklin

Franklin Police and Fire Local's St Patrick's Day 5K - March 19