“When we took the pledge, we made a statement”

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

"When Democrats Maria Robinson and Becca Rausch were in the throes of campaigning for a seat in the Massachusetts legislature, they took a pledge – if elected, they would work to achieve greater transparency in state government. 

Both were victorious in last month’s state election - Robinson, of Framingham, is headed to the House, where she will represent the 6th Middlesex District. Rausch, of Needham, will serve in the Senate representing the Norfolk, Bristol and Middlesex District. 

That means the pledge lives on, and at its heart is a demand that every vote at the Statehouse be done by roll call. It gives constituents a clear picture of how their elected officials vote and where they stand on the issues."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20181208/moment-of-truth-robinson-rausch-will-push-for-transparency-pledge-at-statehouse

https://www.progressivemass.com/

Winter Programs - Now Open for Registration

Lifelong Community Learning is a program of the Franklin Public School’s Lifelong Learning Institute, dedicated to providing diverse and enriched education and experiences for all area residents and children – a resource for all ages.

REGISTER TODAY!
http://www.franklinlifelonglearning.com/community_learning/index.php


Lifelong Community Learning
www.FranklinLifelongLearning.com
Email: LCL@Franklinps.net
Phone: 508-613-1480

Winter Programs - Now Open for Registration

Upcoming Events in Franklin, MA: FRI Dec 7 - THU Dec 13

Friday, December 7

 Holiday Happenings

10:00am

 Knitting Group

3:00pm

 Hot Cocoa and Coloring

Saturday, December 8

 Holiday Happenings

10:00am

 Franklin Historical Museum (Always free)

10:30am

 Santa Story Walk at DelCarte Park

1:30pm

 PEDC presents The Nutcracker

5:30pm

 PEDC presents The Nutcracker

7:30pm

 Humbug!

7:30pm

 OCC Concert: Southern Rail

8:00pm

 THE NIELDS CHRISTMAS CONCERT and SINGALONG

Sunday, December 9

 Holiday Happenings

1:00pm

 Franklin Historical Museum (always free)

1:30pm

 PEDC presents The Nutcracker

2:00pm

 Humbug!

6:30pm

 Math Holiday Tree Decorating Workshop

Monday, December 10

10:30am

 Move Along

11:00am

 Toddler Playgroup

3:00pm

 Monday Crafternoons

3:30pm

 Dungeons & Dragons for Kids

Tuesday, December 11

9:00am

 Quickbooks Hands-on Workshop

9:30am

 Cool Cruisers

10:30am

 Get Ready for Kindergarten

6:30pm

 Silk Scarf Making!

7:00pm

 School Committee - meeting

7:00pm

 Rebound: An Evening With Chris Herren

7:30pm

 Franklin Bellingham Rail Trail Committee Public Meeting

Wednesday, December 12

10:30am

 Terrific Toddlers

11:00am

 Toddler Playgroup

4:00pm

 Construction Junction

6:30pm

 Teen Advisory Board

7:00pm

 Town Council meeting

7:30pm

 LET'S LAUGH TODAY

Thursday, December 13

9:30am

 Baby Tummy Time

10:30am

 Story & Craft

3:30pm

 Discovery Workshop

4:00pm

 Fandom Thursdays

For the interactive version, please visit

http://www.franklinmatters.org/p/blog-page.html

 

For the Town of Franklin Public Meeting Calendar

http://www.franklinma.gov/calendar


Submit an event for the Community Calendar, please use this link

https://goo.gl/forms/7Pr1iBuAiIna7cUo2

Upcoming Events in Franklin, MA: FRI Dec 7 - THU Dec 13

Franklin's Holiday Happenings - Friday, Dec 7

The event listing for Today's Holiday Happenings coordinated by the Franklin Downtown Partnership.

7:00 AM - 6:00 PM: Intermission, 36 (Rear) Main Street - Serving holiday beverages & muffins

4:00 PM to 6:00 PM: The Little Shop of Olive Oils - Holiday Tasting Event

4:00 PM to 6:00 PM: The Cake Bar - Cookie Decorating for Kids

4:00 PM to 9:00 PM: The Rome - Delicious Cheese Pizza for $5.00, Dine in only

5:00 PM to 7:00 PM: Simon’s Furniture - Visit Santa

5:00 PM to 7:00 PM: Real Living Group Toys for Tots drive collection point

5:00 PM to 7:00 PM: Pour Richards, 14 Grove St -Holiday Wine and Beer Tasting

5:00 PM to 7:00 PM: Pour Richards, 14 Grove St - Appetizers made with Youngevity Saveur Spices

Friday through Sunday's events can be found online
https://drive.google.com/file/d/19Ndcl9U6s9jFPH-NKNNn0LYDUdLA1Ivv/view?usp=sharing

The full month of events coordinated by the Franklin Downtown Partnership
https://drive.google.com/file/d/137vx-sBkoRV-nAzqhVzYK5TYpuUJGUAI/view

Franklin's Holiday Happenings - Friday, Dec 7

"I’ll always try to do my best"

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

"The Town Council voted unanimously last week to negotiate with Deputy Town Administrator Jamie Hellen to take over for Town Administrator Jeff Nutting who retires before next summer. 

“I honestly look forward to coming to work every single day,” Hellen said during the Nov. 28 council meeting. “I want to thank the tremendous, dedicated staff we have here in Franklin, on both the town and school side, for their hard work in making this an organization second to none.” 

Hellen will soon enter into negotiations with the nine-member Town Council on a contract. 

In a letter to the council in September, Nutting announced he would be retiring no later than June 30. He recommended Hellen to replace him."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20181206/franklin-town-council-set-to-negotiate-with-jamie-hellen

This recording is the only one available for the Town Council meeting held Wednesday, Nov 28, 2018. Due to technical difficulties, Franklin TV was not able to record or broadcast the meeting.

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2018/11/fm-153-town-council-meeting-nov-28-2018.html

L-R Attny Mark Cerel, Deputy Admin Jamie Hellen, Town Administrator Jeff Nutting

"it wasn’t like a day at a picnic"

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

"It started out like the fragment of a dream, as the sleepers lay in their quiet beds. 

A distant rumble, somewhere. 

Waves breaking on the beaches, perhaps, white and pure like innocence. 

Or, no, a far-off, languid roll of thunder, tripping through the high clouds beginning to part as the recently risen sun poked its warm, dependable rays along the soaring rims of Wai’anae and Ko’olau."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20181207/remembering-pearl-harbor-franklin-women-recall-attack-homefront-life-as-us-entered-wwii

For more about Pearl Harbor and today's National Remembrance Day

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Pearl_Harbor_Remembrance_Day

National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day (wikipedia image)

In the News: PEDC presents The Nutcracker; advances in cancer seen

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

"With the explosive growth of the arts in the Franklin community, Patti Eisenhauer Dance Center is preparing to present "The Nutcracker" with three performances this weekend. 

Performances are on Saturday, Dec. 8 at 1:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 9 at 12:30 p.m. at Bellingham High School, 60 Blackstone St., Bellingham. 

PEDC has cast six girls as Clara, for the first time having three younger dancers portray young Clara and three older dancers portray mature Clara. Each set of dancers will perform for one show. 

Dancing the lead roles in the production are Samantha Robillard, Kaitlyn Auerbach and Andrea Gray as the Snow Queen; Bridgette Ginley, Elizabeth Rodriques and Emily Conroy as the Dew Drop Fairy and Isabella Lambros, Kaitlin Broyles and Alanna Huling as the Sugar Plum Fairy."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://franklin.wickedlocal.com/news/20181206/franklins-pedc-to-present-the-nutcracker

"The winners of this year’s Nobel Prize for Medicine say they expect substantial advances toward treating cancer in the next several decades, although it is unlikely the disease could be eradicated. 

James Allison of the United States and Tasuku Honjo of Japan made the assessments at a Thursday news conference ahead of receiving the 9 million-kronor ($999,000) prize. 

They were named winners of the prize in October for their work in immunotherapy — activating the body’s natural defense system to fight tumors. 

“Soon we’ll get close with some cancers,” Allison said, citing progress against some forms including melanoma. But, he said, “the world will never be cancer-free.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/zz/news/20181206/nobel-laureates-despite-progress-cancer-wont-be-wiped-out/1

“The part that would help the most is the commute home”

From the Boston Globe, an article of interest to commuters on the Franklin Line:

"How often should trains run? How much should a ride cost? And who’s going to operate the trains, anyway? 

As state transportation officials chart the future of the region’s commuter rail system, four years before a new contract is awarded, they are asking a range of far-reaching and fundamental questions about the network’s mission. 

The 400-mile rail system, linking Boston to places as far-flung as Lowell, Worcester, Plymouth, and Providence, has for generations hauled suburbanites to work in the morning and home at night, with only occasional service outside rush hour. But activists believe it could support far more robust service, bringing something like the subway to dozens of cities and towns in Greater Boston — and taking thousands of cars off the highway."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/2018/12/05/mass-officials-have-big-ideas-and-big-decisions-for-mbta-commuter-rail/TmUqwBagkkg4FgarYa8gQO/story.html?

rolling out of South Station on the Franklin Line

Encore's Music For Young Children - Open House Saturday, Dec 8

We invite you to visit Encore to sample an MYC class and enjoy a question and answer session with our faculty!

• Saturday, December 8 at 12:30 PM

Where: 352 Village Street, Millis MA

For more info view/download the flyer
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0wjbnXDBhczaXAtVVJfa1ZJMW1WcmFzNS1RaHBZa1ZpWS1z/view?usp=sharing

Or visit Encore on the web http://www.encoremusicacademy.net/

Encore's Music For Young Children - Open House Dec 8

Franklin's Holiday Happenings - Thursday, Dec 6

The event listing for Today's Holiday Happenings coordinated by the Franklin Downtown Partnership.

Thursday, Dec 6

7:00 AM - 7:00 PM: Intermission, 36 (Rear) Main Street - Serving holiday beverages & muffins

9:00 AM to 9:00 PM: Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA)  - Open House

3:30 PM to 7:00 PM: The Spotlight Shop - Spotlight Shop Trunk Show

4:00 PM to 4:45 PM: Dean College - Carols & Tree Lighting

4:00 PM to 9:00 PM: The Rome - Delicious Cheese Pizza for $5.00, Dine in only

5:00 PM: Dean Bank - Mount Saint Charles Academy Excelsior Bell Choir

6:30 PM: Franklin Public Library - The Renaissance Brass Quintet

Thursday through Sunday's events can be found online
https://drive.google.com/file/d/19Ndcl9U6s9jFPH-NKNNn0LYDUdLA1Ivv/view?usp=sharing

The full month of events coordinated by the Franklin Downtown Partnership
https://drive.google.com/file/d/137vx-sBkoRV-nAzqhVzYK5TYpuUJGUAI/view

Franklin's Holiday Happenings - Thursday, Dec 6

Saturday Ski Trip Planned - March 2, 2019

Calling it a “great holiday gift for the family”, Lifelong Community Learning has announced a March 2 ski trip to Bretton Woods, NH. Participants will enjoy a day on the slopes without thinking about the driving. 

Transportation will be provided by a chartered motor coach departing Franklin High School parking lot at 5:30 AM and will depart Bretton Woods at 4:30 PM to return home. Individuals under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

For more information, and to register, go online www.FranklinLifelongLearning.com and click on Community Learning-Special Events. You can also call Lifelong Community Learning at 508-613-1480.

ABOUT US: Lifelong Community Learning is a program of the Franklin Public Schools Lifelong Learning Institute, dedicated to providing diverse and enriched education and experiences for all area residents and children – a resource for all ages.


NOTE: If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Brenda Reed at 508-613-1483 or email at reedb@franklinps.net.

Saturday Ski Trip Planned - March 2, 2019

"The teamwork and dedication is unbelievable for these young boys"

From a proud Franklin mother:

"My son Jack Murphy, grade 6 Horace Mann Middle School, is playing for the MASS ELITE FOOTBALL TEAM 6th Grade team. This past weekend all three teams 6, 7, and 8th grade won the Northeast Region and are heading to Naples, Florida on Dec 15 to play against teams from each region across the country for the National Title. Jack will be representing Franklin. 

He currently plays for our youth program here in town and has since he was 7. MASS ELITE had tryouts in November and for the 6th grade level they had close to 100 kids tryout out and only 32 made it. 

The kids that make up the MASS ELITE team are the best of the best in our state and are not just athletes but great students as well. Their practice schedule is weekly on school nights and these kids still manage to maintain their grades. 

I thought with all the negative that surrounds tackle football and the fact that our numbers are dwindling fast here in Franklin, maybe a article to show all the positives that come out of football as well. 

Many of these boys that play for MASS ELITE go off to D1 schools with full scholarships, these boys are from all over and none of them knew one another, but yet have meshed, bonded, and played as a team from the start. The teamwork and dedication is unbelievable for these young boys."

The 7th grade photo was tagged as such, the 8th graders are the older youth, so by process of elimination, this should be the 6th grade team

"The teamwork and dedication is unbelievable for these young boys"

Music of the Promise - Dec 15 - 5:30 PM

Join us for an evening of songs, carols, and worship for Advent. 

This FREE EVENT features musical selections from Andrew Peterson's "Behold The Lamb of God," as well as other songs and carols to prepare us for the Incarnation!

Come early at 5:30 PM for a Dessert Reception. The Program begins at 6:30 PM. An Offering will be taken to benefit the St. Vincent de Paul Society of Franklin. All are welcome!



Hosted by:
Anglican Church of the Redeemer, Franklin MA
31 Hayward St, Franklin, Massachusetts 02038

Music of the Promise - Dec 15 - 5:30 PM

Follow the Facebook event  https://www.facebook.com/events/1051863218318419/

“One in three people that try nicotine products will become addicted”

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

"A local petition calls for the town Board of Health to institute a policy in which the sale of flavored tobacco and nicotine products be restricted to so-called “vape” stores that only those 21 and older can enter. 

The petition, started by Westwood-Mansfield Pediatric Associates, seeks 200 signatures, although it is non-binding. Health board members discussed the topic during regularly scheduled meeting on Wednesday. 

“We have always been working for the greater cause,” said Chairman Donald Ranieri. “As usual, our priority is the health of the people in the town of Franklin. That’s why we’re here.” 

Currently, flavored tobacco and nicotine products are also sold at several convenience stores and gas stations in town. Owners either failed to respond or declined to comment on queries made by a Daily News reporter on the subject."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20181206/franklin-petition-takes-aim-at-flavored-tobacco


The text of the petition at Change.org created by Dr. Lester Hartman, Westwood-Mansfield Pediatrics:

"As parents of children in the Town of Franklin, we insist that our Board of Health restrict flavored nicotine and tobacco products immediately, only allowing their sale in smoke and vape shops that are 21+ to enter. We do not want our children exposed to these dangerous and addictive products when they go into our local convenience stores. 

Across the state, 136 Boards of Health covering over 59% of the State's population have signed onto this flavored nicotine and tobacco restriction. 

Given the current nicotine addiction epidemic in our middle and high schools, it is this Board's duty to look out for our children and attempt to remedy this situation."

https://www.change.org/p/franklin-board-of-health-town-of-franklin-restrict-the-sale-of-flavored-nicotine-products-to-smoke-vape-shops

“One in three people that try nicotine products will become addicted”

Sensory Friendly Santa Claus - Dec 8

Visiting Santa Claus can be a very overwhelming experience for children, particularly those with Special Needs. 

This year, Franklin SEPAC is inviting families to visit Santa in a sensory friendly environment...no long lines or waiting, no crowds or noisy store and a Santa who understands!! 

Bring your camera to take as many pictures as you would like. Our SEPAC elves will be on hand to take family photos as well.

Saturday, December 8, 12-4

A quiet room downstairs in Cole's Tavern, Franklin MA

This event is free! Sign up for a time to have your own private meeting with the big guy by clicking on the following link!

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0a45adab2fa2f58-sensory

Sensory Friendly Santa Claus - Dec 8

For more information about the Franklin SEPAC group  http://franklinsepac.org/