Franklin Public Schools: Schools are in session but .... Operations of Systems in Our School Buildings

Friday, March 9, 2018  9:00 AM Update

Dear Franklin Families, Faculty, and Staff,

It has been a busy morning so far and we are writing this message to convey accurate information regarding our systems operations in the early morning hours.

While power was restored broadly to our schools, we have been experiencing some problems with our systems. We have assessed across all buildings and feel we are able to operate normally with a few "workarounds".

Key Fobs

Key fobs are not working for our entry doors but door keys do work.  The buildings remain locked, however people in the building are able to get out.  Secretaries are able to buzz in visitors and check them per security protocols.

Internet

We experienced brief Internet outages early in the morning at some schools but all schools currently have Internet connections.

Heat

The heat was on in most buildings but a computer failure took the heat offline at Keller/Sullivan. The system was reset and heat came back online at 8:10 AM.  The heat at Horace Mann/Oak/ECDC is on but one boiler is not functioning properly. The contractors are currently working on it.

Phones

Our phone lines are experiencing problems across all schools.  Incoming calls are being directed to a "Town Offices" line here at the municipal building.  This line is being monitored and we are relaying the messages to the schools. If you need to reach the school, an alternative is to email the school secretary.

We are having difficulty making outgoing phone calls at ECDC/Oak St./HMMS and Keller/Sullivan.  Our workaround for emergency purposes is to use cell phone calls and/or text messaging. We will also have additional police and administrative presence at these locations for assistance.

Our communications vendor is currently working to repair the phone system.

We will continue to keep you apprised about conditions throughout the day.

Regards,

Franklin Public Schools

Franklin Public Schools: Schools are in session but .... Operations of Systems in Our School Buildings

Upcoming Events in Franklin, MA: FRI 3/9/18 - THU 3/15/18

FRIDAY 3/9/18
10am-12pm   Knitting Group @ Franklin Public Library
11:45am   Kids Fitness @ Fairmount Fruit Farm
2pm   Tech Help with HMMS Students @ Senior Center
5:30pm   Heart with Hope Restorative Yoga (for parents and loved ones of those suffering from addiction) @ Sacred Tree Yoga, Norfolk
7pm   Yoga for Recovery @ Sacred Tree Yoga, Norfolk

SATURDAY 3/10/18
9:30am   Family Yoga @ Franklin Public Library
10am-1pm   Franklin Historical Museum Open
1pm   Drive-In Movie (Cars) @ Franklin Public Library
2pm   FPAC: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat @ The Black Box
4:30-6:30pm   Black Brown and Beige: A Spirited Event @ Pour Richard's
7:30pm   FPAC: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat @ The Black Box

SUNDAY 3/11/18
1-4pm   Franklin Historical Museum Open
1-4pm   Pennywise @ Pour Richard's
1:15pm   Alan Earles - The Blizzard of ’78 @ Franklin Historical Museum
2pm   Chess Group @ Franklin Public Library
2pm   FPAC: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat @ The Black Box

MONDAY 3/12/18
10am   Storytime (all ages, free) @ Fairmount Fruit Farm
10:30am   Move Along @ Franklin Public Library
11am   Toddler Playgroup @ Franklin Public Library
3pm  Monday Crafternoons @ Franklin Public Library
7pm   Registry of Deeds - William O’Donnell @ Franklin Public Library

TUESDAY 3/13/18
10:30am   Get Ready For Kindergarten @ Franklin Public Library
11:15am   Toddler Playgroup @ Franklin Public Library
1pm   Low Vision Group @ Franklin Senior Center
6pm   Lenten Soup Supper and Book Study (weekly until March 21) @ St. John’s Episcopal Church
6:30pm   Pallette Wood Burning Class @ Fairmount Fruit Farm
7pm   School Committee Meeting @ Franklin Municipal Building
7:30pm   Franklin and Bellingham Rail Trail Committee Meeting (public welcome) @ Franklin YMCA

WEDNESDAY 3/14/18
9am   5th Grade Concert @ J F Kennedy Elementary
10am   Animal Tales (for ages 2.5-5) @ Fairmount Fruit Farm
10am   Roulette Fun @ Franklin Senior Center
10am   Gary Highlander Presidential Series Biographies (Abraham Lincoln) @ Senior Center
10:30am   Terrific Toddlers @ Franklin Public Library
11am   Toddler Playgroup @ Franklin Public Library
1:30pm   Preschool Play N’ Learn @ Franklin Public Library
4pm   Construction Junction @ Franklin Public Library
4:30-6:30pm   Spring Art Show (FPS Students K-12) @ FHS Panther Lobby
6pm   All Franklin Bands MICCA Showcase @ Franklin High School
6:30pm   Christian Zen Weekly Meditation @ McMahon Guest House (1061 Upper Union Street)
6:30pm   Teen Advisory Board @ Franklin Public Library
7pm   Town Council Meeting @ Franklin Municipal Building
7:30pm   Franklin Newcomers and Friends Club Meeting @ 3 Restaurant
7:30pm   Let’s Laugh Today - laughter yoga @ FUSF

THURSDAY 3/15/18
9:30am   Baby Tummy Time @ Franklin Public Library
10:30am   Story and Craft @ Franklin Public Library
11:15am   Toddler Playgroup @ Franklin Public Library
12pm   Urban Sketching (no experience necessary) @ Franklin Public Library
1pm   Minds in Motion @ Franklin Senior Center
6pm   All Franklin Chorus and Orchestra MICCA Concert @ FHS
6-8pm   Family Science Night @ FHS
7pm   Franklin SEPAC Workshop: ADHD Essentials @ Franklin Municipal Building
7pm   Healing Hearts Community Support Group @ Franklin YMCA

For the Town of Franklin Public Calendar click HERE.

For all other events and Franklin happenings click HERE.

*To submit an event for the Community Calendar, please use this FORM

Tri-County - 2Q Honor Roll

The honor roll for the second quarter from Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School in Franklin. 

Students who receive term grades of B- or better in all subjects earn honor roll status. 
Students who earn grades of A- or better in all subjects receive high honors.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/153jMCL65pqUqzxLpMUKRHSqte1uygBeQ/view?usp=sharing

Tri-County - 2Q Honor Roll

For more about Tri-County visit their webpage   http://www.tri-county.tc/

MA Consumer Affairs: Where to find that product recall

From MA Consumer Affairs:

"Product Recall! 

You’ve probably seen too many articles and news stories to count featuring that phrase. Whether it’s defective airbags, combustible smartphones, or contaminated produce, companies and consumer protection agencies will alert the public if a product is unsafe, hazardous or defective. 

You may be wondering which government agency oversees recalls; is it the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)? Or the Department of Agriculture (USDA)? The answer is both. Actually, the answer includes several federal agencies. 

Recalls.gov was created in part by the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the United States Coast Guard, the FDA, the USDA, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These six agencies teamed together to create an all-in-one website for consumers to find information about product recalls."

Continue reading the article online
http://blog.mass.gov/consumer/massconsumer/can-you-recall-that-recall/

• Can you recall that recall?

FTC continues to crack down on student loan scams

FTC continues to crack down on student loan scams by Ari Lazarus Consumer Education Specialist, FTC A lot of us have student loans – and some of us have trouble paying them every month. Some companies claim to resolve that issue by saying they can help you pay them down quicker, cheaper or get them forgiven altogether. Be cautious – some of these companies are running scams. Here are some tips to avoid student loan repayment scams: Read more This is a free service provided by the Federal Trade Commission.

“The time on some of this stuff seems to be now”

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

"As Massachusetts continued to clean up Thursday from its second nor’easter in a week, Gov. Charlie Baker said he plans to file legislation next week addressing climate change. 

Baker and Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito surveyed storm damage on the North and South shores last weekend, and Baker said it occurred to him then that “fixing whatever it is that’s there may just translate in something similar happening again at some point.” 

“A lot of these places got hit pretty hard in the Jan. 4 storm as well, and I think we’re going to have to come up with a different kind of strategy around resilience,” Baker said during his monthly appearance on WGBH Radio. 

Storms in January and March combined with high tides to inundate coastal communities with floodwaters, events that have put a spotlight on strategies to prepare for and respond to climate change.

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20180308/baker-to-file-climate-change-bill-next-week

https://350.org/about/

Franklin Public Schools: Schools Open -- Power Restored - Mar 9

Friday, March 9, 2018

Dear Franklin Families, Faculty, and Staff,

We have received notification that all of the Franklin Public Schools' school buildings and many homes have had power restored. Therefore, school will open on time this morning, Friday, March 9, 2018.

Sincerely,

Franklin Public Schools

Franklin Public Schools:  Schools Open -- Power Restored - Mar 9

Important Message from the Town Collector Regarding Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Bills

Important Message from the Town Collector Regarding Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Bills

Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Bills are due March 15, 2018.

If you choose to use your Online Banking to pay your bills, please remember to reference the bill number(s) you are paying.

Online Payments can be made here.

Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Bills are due March 15, 2018

You can also navigate to the online bill pay from the Town of Franklin webpage
http://www.franklinma.gov/home/pages/online-payments

Franklin Library: baby sensory program and drive-in movie

Two family events at the Franklin Public Library on Saturday, Mar 10

Join us for a 45 minute baby sensory program! Watch your little one interact and engage with a variety of sensory items! Sensory play is a fantastic way to help babies explore their worlds, stimulate the senses, and create little inquisitive explorers! Babies under 2 are welcome and encouraged! (Got older siblings? They can bring along a stuffed toy or baby and play along!

http://www.franklinma.gov/franklin-public-library/events/156983

Baby Sensory! - Sat, Mar 10 - 10:30 AM

Join us for a drive-in movie (indoors of course) in our big program room! First we'll decorate our cars (boxes that we have been saving up for this). Then we'll relax and enjoy some popcorn in our spiffy new cars. You're welcome to bring your own box to decorate, or us one of ours.

http://www.franklinma.gov/franklin-public-library/bulletins/drive-movie

drive-in movie - Sat, Mar 10 - 1:00 PM

Franklin Public Schools: Updated Information about Schools March 8, 2018 PM

Thursday, March 8, 2018

PM Update

Good evening, Franklin Families, Faculty, and Staff,

Earlier today, ten of our eleven schools were without power as a result of last night's storm. Some power has been restored, but many schools are still without it. We have been communicating closely with National Grid and the DPW, Facilities, Police, and Fire Departments throughout today to remain informed of power restoration activities within Franklin.

We are concerned about the widespread power outages at our schools and within neighborhoods, however restoration efforts are under way and will continue through the evening. Any decision that may be made to close schools tomorrow will be made between 5:00 and 5:30 AM.

Stay warm and safe. More information will be sent in the early morning hours.

Sincerely,

Franklin Public Schools

Parmenter School after a different snow storm

Franklin Residents: Storm Update March 8, 2018

Hello,

This is the Town of Franklin with an update on current conditions in Town. 

Approximately 50% of Franklin is currently without power. National Grid has crews on site, more are being dispatched today to help in the recovery effort. National Grid is anticipating full restoration within 72-hours.

The Town has opened three locations for warming and device charging: the Hockomock YMCA at Forge Park, which also has showers available, the Franklin Public Library and Franklin Fire Station Headquarters on West Central Street.

Trash and Recycling collection was NOT delayed today and is on schedule for Friday to be picked up on a regular schedule.

Please check the town website at www.franklinma.gov for the most up to date information.

Thank you,

Town of Franklin

Franklin Residents: Storm Update March 8, 2018

MICCA SHOWCASE CONCERT - - March 14

MICCA SHOWCASE CONCERT - 2018

Each year, the Franklin Public School performance ensembles participate in the Massachusetts Instrumental and Choral Conductors Association music festival. 

 “It is the purpose of the Massachusetts Instrumental and Choral Conductor's Association to encourage and support high performance standards by high school, middle school, and elementary school musical organizations. MICCA Concert Festivals encourage the improvement of a group's musical standards by providing musical adjudication by highly qualified adjudicators. Attendance at a festival also affords organizations an opportunity to hear performances by other groups and experience the presentation of a wide variety of musical literature.”

The Franklin Music Department is pleased to invite you to come celebrate over 500 student musicians as they perform this years MICCA programs for the public. This concert will include Bands, Choruses, and Orchestras from the Remington Middle School, Horace Mann Middle School, Annie Sullivan Middle School and Franklin High School.

The event will begin at 5:30 PM on Wednesday, March 14, at the Franklin High School auditorium. The schedule will be as follows:

(times are approximate) 
5:30 PM - All Choruses 
6:35 PM - All Bands
8:20 PM - All Orchestras


A $5 donation is requested at the door. Refreshments and pizza will be sold.

MICCA SHOWCASE CONCERT - - March 14

Little Shop of Horrors at The Orpheum Theatre Foxboro - Mar 16/17

The Theatre Institute presents:

Little Shop of Horrors
Friday, March 16 @ 7:00 PM 
Saturday, March 17 @ 3:00 PM  and 7:00 PM 
at The Orpheum Theatre Foxboro

"Here is the link to the Facebook event page:
https://www.facebook.com/events/976490015851098


The Theatre Institute is an intensive pre-professional theatrical training program for high school aged students, operated by the Hockomock Area YMCA:
https://www.facebook.com/theatreinstitute
https://www.hockymca.org/mansfield/programs/theatre-programs/


The Little Shop of Horrors cast is almost all Franklin High School students! This is going to be a great show - these kids are seasoned performers, some of the seniors will be moving on to college as performing arts/musical theatre majors."

 Little Shop of Horrors at The Orpheum Theatre Foxboro - Mar 16/17

Tri-County Announces Class of 2018 Valedictorian and Salutatorian

Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School administration and staff are pleased to announce the Valedictorian and Salutatorian for the Class of 2018. Jeffrey Blenkhorn, of Medway, has been named Valedictorian, and Carolyn Kiely, of North Attleboro, has been named Salutatorian.

Jeffrey, a student in Tri-County’s Engineering Technology Program, has achieved a 4.49 GPA by mastering rigorous academic classes that include Advanced Placement Physics, Literature and Composition, Statistics and Honors History. Jeffrey is committed to expanding his knowledge in the engineering field and gaining professional experience through cooperative education while working at Paradis Metal Works in North Attleboro where he produces mechanical drawings using AutoCAD and SolidWorks.

During his four years at Tri-County, Jeffrey participated in NASA’s HUNCH Program, SkillsUSA and the National Honor Society. The Engineering Technology student has acquired several certifications including Certified SolidWorks Associate, MACWIC Level 1 and Level 2 Manufacturing, AutoCAD Certified User, Revit Certified User and 10 Hour OSHA Card.

A Medway resident, Jeffrey is involved in Boy Scouts of America where he is pursuing the rank of Eagle Scout. Jeffrey also works part-time for Roche Bros as a cashier and volunteers at the Medway Food Pantry.

After graduation, Jeffrey aspires to become a mechanical engineer. He is currently deciding between Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) or the University of Massachusetts Lowell to attend in the Fall.

Superintendent Stephen Dockray (center) met with Class of 2018 Valedictorian
Jeffrey Blenkhorn (left) and Class of 2017 Salutatorian Carolyn Kiely (right)

Tri-County’s Salutatorian, Carolyn Kiely, maintains a 4.44 GPA having an arduous academic schedule that includes Advanced Placement Physics, Literature and Composition, Statistics and World History Honors. Carolyn still finds the time to participate in a variety of extracurricular activities including SkillsUSA and the Math Team. She is also president of the National Honor Society, president of the Gender and Sexualities Alliance, a Student Representative on the Tri-County Advisory Board, and represents the Cosmetology program at several school events throughout the year.

Carolyn devotes herself to community service by volunteering her time at the Stony Brook Audubon Sanctuary where she sells tickets, assists patrons and prepares trails for the winter season. She also loves music and is engaged in singing, guitar and drum lessons.

Carolyn is still contemplating which university she will attend after graduation, but plans on pursuing a degree in psychology.

Both Jeff and Carolyn have received Tri-County Perfect Attendance Awards, having had perfect attendance during all of their high school years.

“Over the past four years Jeffrey and Carolyn have excelled in both their academic classes as well as their vocational programs and are truly deserving as Valedictorian and Salutatorian respectively for the Class of 2018,” said Superintendent Dockray. “We congratulate them and look forward to hearing great things from these two exceptional students in the future.”

As Valedictorian and Salutatorian, Jeffrey and Carolyn will help to lead the graduation procession and are scheduled to address their classmates at the Commencement Ceremony scheduled for Sunday, June 3, 2018.

Pantherbook: "A Walkout Planned at Franklin High"

Rebekah Redwine, Guest Writer for Pantherbook, provides a summary of the student walkout planned at FHS for March 14.

"On February 14th, 17 lives were taken at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. As a result of the cruel gun violence of the recent years, a National School Walkout will be happening on March 14, 2018 at 10 AM. Schools all over the country will be doing this, as a way to honor those who lost their lives and to call on Congress to act upon the violence in our nation.

Franklin High will be participating in this, but the way we are doing it is a bit different from how many schools across the country are. We are lucky enough that students and teachers will not face consequences, such as suspension, for walking out and standing up for what they believe in. However, many students do not want to walk out and they will be given the chance to go to the gym for the 17 minutes. 

There is a lot of debate over this walk out, as many students do not understand what the point of the walkout is or believe that it will not make a difference. We should not have to feel unsafe in our schools, movie theaters, or homes. We call upon Congress to make a change and help end gun violence nationally. This walk out though, is more about school safety. Feeling safe in a learning environment should not be a political issue, as nobody wants to arrive at FHS at 7:15 every morning fearing for their life. This mass movement is to help us end the tragic deaths of students and teachers as a result of gun violence."

Continue reading the article about the walkout at Pantherbook
https://franklinpanthers.us/top-stories/2018/03/06/a-walk-out-planned-at-franklin-high/

Pantherbook: "A Walkout Planned at Franklin High"

LET'S LAUGH TODAY in Franklin is on Wednesday, March 14

Laugh "for the health of it’ and celebrate Bill and Linda's birthdays at Let’s Laugh Today on Wednesday, March 14th from 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM at the Meetinghouse of the First Universalist Society in Franklin, 262 Chestnut Street, Franklin! There will be special treats! 

There will be special treats! 

Laughter Yoga is a body/mind practice for well-being that involves deep breathing and a few stretches, playful laughter exercises (no jokes or comedy), clapping and deep relaxation. It has many benefits besides the joy of laughter. It can strengthen the immune system, combat the negative effects of stress, and is a powerful antidote to depression and anxiety. 

Any age and any level of physical ability can participate in this uplifting experience! They laugh together on every second Wednesday of each month. $5 donation to the church, $10 maximum per family. 

LET'S LAUGH TODAY in Franklin is on Wed, Mar 14

Please bring your water bottle because laughing can be dehydrating. Led by Certified Laughter Yoga Teachers, Linda and Bill Hamaker. 

See www.letslaughtoday.com for opportunities to laugh in other towns. 

If you have any questions, just call them at 508-660-2223 or e-mail billandlinda@letslaughtoday.com.

SAVE THE DATE: The Annual SEPAC Comedy Show - May 4

SAVE THE DATE for The Annual SEPAC Comedy Show on Friday, May 4 at the 
Showcase Live, Patriot Place, Foxboro

It is that time of year again!! The 8th Annual Comedy show to benefit Franklin SEPAC is being held on Friday, May 4 at Showcase Live, Patriot Place. 

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!!

The Annual SEPAC Comedy Show - May 4

Franklin Pubic Schools: Closed March 8, 2018

Thursday, March 8, 2018

Due to the heavy snowfall overnight and conditions across town, the Franklin Public Schools will be closed on Thursday, March 8, 2018.

For office staff, the district's central office and school offices will be open at "Level 2", however, we will not be opening until 11:00 AM.

Please take extra care to stay safe.

Sincerely,

Franklin Public Schools

Franklin Pubic Schools: Closed March 8, 2018
(Davis Thayer in the aftermath of a prior snow storm)

“It’s about just doing good”

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

"Annie Sullivan Middle School student Brendan O’Leary has been chosen to represent Franklin for a statewide charity effort this year. 

O’Leary will serve as the town’s ambassador for Project 351, which was started in 2011 when then Gov. Deval Patrick decided to incorporate children into the fight against poverty and homelessness. 

“An eighth-grade unsung hero and quiet leader” is selected from each of the 351 towns and cities in Massachusetts, according to the project’s application. 

Beth Wittcoff, the principal at Annie Sullivan, said with his good grades and humble nature, O’Leary was recognized by his teachers because found him to be the perfect candidate to spearhead Franklin’s part of the charity drive."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20180307/franklin-student-chosen-for-project-351

for more about Project 351 visit their webpage

For more about Project 351 visit their webpage
https://www.project351.org/

8th Annual Franklin and Bellingham Fives Road Race - May 5

8th Annual Franklin and Bellingham Fives Road Race

5K Run/Walk - 5 mile run - 1.5 mile walk

Saturday, May 5, 2018

Remington Middle School 

628 Washington Street Franklin, MA

USA Track and Field Sanctioned Event

Run or Walk-5k or Run 5 mile Courses through residential neighborhoods on paved roads. 1.5 mile walk through residential neighborhoods. Help support our effort to develop the Southern New England Trunkline Trail (SNETT) into a multi-use path for Franklin and Bellingham. Post race refreshments. Prizes awarded by category. T-shirts to the first 150 entrants. Participation Medals & raffle prizes and DJ at the site for your enjoyment.

Event details and schedule
T-shirts to the first 150 entrants. Prizes awarded by category. Post race refreshments. Race timing by Spitler Race Systems.

• Registration: 8:30 – 9:45 AM
• Start Time: 10 AM
• Start / Finish: 628 Washington St. Franklin, MA (Remington School)
• Run – 5K and 5 mile course through residential neighborhoods
• 1.5 mile walk through residential neighborhoods
• Entry Fee: 
• $30 prior to race day; $35 day of the race 
• $15 Students prior to race day;  $20 day of race for Students

Link to the Rail Trail Committee website with registration info:
http://www.franklinbellinghamrailtrail.org/race

Link directly to registration page:
https://www.active.com/franklin-ma/running/distance-running-races/8th-annual-franklin-and-bellingham-franklin-fives-road-race-2018?int=

Link to Facebook event:
https://www.facebook.com/events/801815903359955/

Mark your calendar: Franklin Fives Road Race - May 5

Franklin Library: March 7 and March 8 Storm Updates

March 7th and March 8th Storm Updates

Franklin Public Library will be closing at 5 PM today, March 7
Stay tuned for any additional updates.

Shared from the Town of Franklin webpage

This is an automatic message from Town of Franklin MA. 

Franklin Library: March 7 and March 8 Storm Updates

Tom Rush at Circle of Friends Coffeehouse - March 17

Circle of Friends Coffeehouse is happy to announce that Tom Rush will be back in Franklin on March 17. Each of his previous shows has sold out so please get your tickets early. 

Tom's impact on the American music scene has been profound. He helped shape the folk revival in the '60s and the renaissance of the '80s and '90s, his music having left its stamp on generations of artists. James Taylor told Rolling Stone, "Tom was not only one of my early heroes, but also one of my main influences." 

Country music star Garth Brooks has credited Rush with being one of his top five musical influences. Tom's distinctive guitar style, wry humor and warm, expressive voice have made him both a legend and a lure to audiences around the world. His shows are filled with the rib-aching laughter of terrific story-telling, the sweet melancholy of ballads and the passion of gritty blues. 

http://tomrush.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. 

Tickets for this show is $45. Please call (508)528-2541 or visit http://www.circlefolk.org/ to purchase tickets or for more information.

Tom Rush at Circle of Friends Coffeehouse - March 17

Franklin Police Internet Exchange Zone - 911 Panther Way

Do you use Internet exchange sites like Craigslist, Facebook, or other online social media sites to buy and sell goods? Having a safe place to meet and exchange these goods is always a good idea. 

The Franklin Police Department encourages residents to use our Internet Exchange Spot located in the front lot of the Police Station. This area is well lighted, and monitored by a 24hr. high definition recording system.

"Often times scammers are less likely to want to meet at a police station. Buyers and sellers should be wary of anyone who wants to avoid a public meeting place and insists on coming to your home." said Chief of Police Thomas Lynch.

The Internet Exchange Spot is available 24hrs. a day, however it is always best to meet during daylight hours. If you need any assistance you can contact the Franklin Police at (508) 528-1212.

Franklin Police Internet Exchange Zone - 911 Panther Way

This was shared from the Town of Franklin webpage

http://www.franklinma.gov/police-department/news/franklin-police-internet-exchange-zone

6 Franklin High School Music Students perform with the Massachusetts All State Honor Band, Orchestra, and Chorus

Massachusetts Music Educators Association recently held the 2018 All-State Music Festival. Six students from the Franklin High School band, orchestra and chorus programs were selected for an ensemble and performed at Symphony Hall in Boston.

The annual All-State Conference features as many as 120 teacher workshops, several concert hours and casual concerts, and is attended by more than 800 music educators and 500 of Massachusetts' top student musicians performing band, orchestral, jazz or choral repertoire.

The Franklin High School students that were selected for the All-State Ensembles Program are: Augustine Marzoratti - clarinet, Lauren Dennett - Tenor Saxophone, Sumit Choudhury - Viola, Miles Reed - Cello, Brinda Venkataraman - Violin and Evan Kurdi - Bass.

“The all-state experience is a chance for some of our advanced players to surround themselves with the best student musicians in the state,” said Diane Plouffe, Director of Music. “The audition process alone exposes students to other local musicians outside of the Franklin Public Schools who are striving for musical excellence and achievement in their community and school. We are proud of all of our students.”

Franklin All State Student - From L to R: Brinda Venkataraman, Lauren Dennett, Evan Kurdi, Miles Reed, Sumit Choudhury, Augustine Marzoratti 

FHS Panthers Softball Clinic Grades K-5 - Mar 24

FHS PANTHERS SOFTBALL CLINIC Grades K-5

Saturday March 24th 2018 (Rain or Shine) 

9:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon

Franklin High School Gymnasium

$40.00 per player (includes a t-shirt)

(we will be hosting a separate clinic for 6th-8th graders Aril/May date TBD)

Players will learn the fundamentals of Fastpitch Softball. Specific skills will be covered using a series of stations which the players will rotate between to insure age groups and skill levels are being maintained.

Stations include:
• Proper throwing and catching mechanics 
• Proper hitting mechanics
• Overall fielding and base running

The lead instructor will be KATE FALLON-COMEAU, Franklin High School Softball Program Director and Head Coach of Franklin High Panthers Varsity Softball. Coach Fallon-Comeau was a four year starter at Curry College in both pitching and catching and was team captain her senior year. After coaching JV softball at Cardinal Spellman High School, she went on to be Varsity Coach of SE Regional Vocational High School.

Assistant coach Matt Connelly, along with the Varsity players will be on hand to assist in what should truly be an exciting three hours.

Please complete and mail the form below with payment by March 17, 2018, to insure your softball player will be part of this event.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0wjbnXDBhczUXF5Nk03MGpvXzFtTHItTmNhTEtIWS12cW5z/view?usp=sharing

FTC: New Medicare cards coming soon

New Medicare cards coming soon by Lisa Weintraub Schifferle Attorney, FTC, Division of Consumer and Business Education New Medicare cards are coming soon. Here's what you need to know about your new card. Plus, how to avoid related scams. Read more This is a free service provided by the Federal Trade Commission.

FTC: New Medicare cards coming soon

“The longer you’re here, the more responsibilities you get ..."

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

"State Rep. Jeffrey Roy, D-Franklin, has pulled papers to retain his 10th Norfolk seat for the Nov. 6 state election. His only opponent is Franklin Town Council’s Patrick Casey, running as a Republican. 

Roy said that this is the first time he’s had a contested election since his first campaign in 2012. 

Currently in his third term, Roy was appointed as chair of Massachusetts Healthcare Finance Committee as of Tuesday. Roy replaced Northampton Rep. Peter Kocot after his passing two weeks ago. 

“It’s an awesome responsibility given that we are on the verge of doing a major healthcare finance bill in the house,” he said."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20180306/franklin-roy-seeks-fourth-term-as-state-rep

Left to right: Sen Ross, Rep Roy, Sen Spilka and Delegate Ladybug
at the Franklin Municipal Building Feb 2015

MBTA: Wednesday - Commuter Rail notice

All Commuter Rail lines will operate on a regular weekday schedule on Wednesday, 3/7. Please use caution in parking lots and on platforms.

On Wednesday, 3/7, winter weather is forecasted for the greater Boston area. Preparations are underway and the Commuter Rail will provide regularly scheduled weekday service.


Last updated: Mar 06 2018 03:20 PM

Click here for more information: https://mbta.com/winter

Sent by the MBTA

MBTA: Wednesday - Commuter Rail notice

Franklin Federated Church: stained glass window repair underway

One of the two large stained glass windows at Franklin Federated Church, along with 16 smaller windows that surround it, will be removed this week to undergo restoration.

The window restoration is part of a $500,000 ongoing Restoration Campaign at the historic church. The window repair will cost $43,000 and is expected to take 6 months to complete.

Kit Sherwood of Willet-Hauser Stained Glass in Minnesota will remove the windows, box them, and ship them to Willet-Hauser’s studio for restoration and repair. The window area, which faces the parking lot next to the church at 171 Main Street, will be temporarily covered with a layer of white plywood. Work will begin on the morning of Monday, March 5 and continue through Wednesday, March 7.

Franklin Federated Church: stained glass window repair underway

The leading that holds the stained glass in place will be replaced, and the individual panes of glass cleaned and repaired as necessary. The window will then be reassembled, and restored to its original location, and a clear acrylic will be installed to protect the window.

The church launched its Restoration Campaign in 2015, securing $500,000 in pledges from members and friends of the church. Other work that has been completed as part of the campaign has included a partial replacement of the church roof, a new heating system, foundation work to address water intrusion, replacement of the windows in the kitchen and dining room, electrical upgrades, and replacement of the exterior walkways, staircases and handicapped ramp.