Franklin Cultural District Dedication - May 10 - photo essay

The Dedication Ceremony for the Franklin Cultural District was held at the Historical Museum on May 10, 2019.

The ceremony was followed by a reception and entertainment at THE BLACK BOX.

Photo album of the event

Dedication Ceremony for the Franklin Cultural District

Franklin Rotary Club plans their 28th Annual Pasta Supper - June 6

The Franklin Rotary Club International will host their 28th Annual Pasta Supper on June 6, 2019, at 5 PM, located at the Central Park Terrace Hall, 1000 Central Park Terrace, Franklin, MA. All Senior Citizens are welcome to attend this annual event and as always, it is completely free of charge.

Seniors will not only enjoy a delicious homemade meal, but also a live musical performance by Brenda Padula and The Padula Brothers.

Seniors are urged to enter their names on a sign-up so that no one is left out. Sign-up sheets may found at the following locations:

• Central Park Terrace, 1000 Central Park Terrace, Franklin, MA
• Franklin Senior Center, 10 Daniel McCahill Street, Franklin, MA

The Rotary Club International is a non-profit organization made up of a diverse group of men and women “who come together to create positive, lasting change in our communities and around the world.” https://www.rotary.org/en/about-rotary

If you would like more information about our organization or Corporate Memberships, please call Terry Katsaros, 508-245-4127, Frank Cusano, 617-839-4567 or Scott Martin 774-235-2756 and they will make arrangements for you to be a guest at one of the upcoming meetings. 

Rotary members meet the first and third Thursdays of each month, 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM at The Rome Restaurant, 4 East Central Street, Franklin, MA. You may also visit our website: http://portal.clubrunner.ca/3689.

Franklin Rotary Club plans their 28th Annual Pasta Supper - June 6

FHS softball tops North Attleboro 5-2

Via HockomockSports, we share the results of the FHS sports action on Saturday, May 11, 2019

"Softball = North Attleboro, 2 @ Franklin, 5 – Final
– After trading two runs each in the first inning, Franklin took the lead with a pair of runs in the fifth and tacked on an insurance run in the sixth to pick up a non-league win over North Attleboro. Abby Gallagher had a one-out single and scored on a double from Ashley Cangiano. Cangiano took third on the throw and scored on an infield ground out to make it 2-0. 

Franklin responded with two in the bottom half when Anna Balkus (3-for-4, two runs, RBI) singled and Gabby Colace (two runs) reached on a fielder’s choice, both scoring on a two-out double from Sarah Jackson (2-for-3, two RBI). 

In the fifth, Balkus led off with a single, Colace reached on an error, Maddy White drove Balkus in on a fielder’s choice, and Jackie Cherry brought Colace home with a sac fly. Balkus singled in Kylie Bouzan (3-for-3) with two outs to add an insurance run. Cherry earned the win for the Panthers, scattering five hits and three walks with eight strikeouts."


For the other results around the Hockomock League
https://hockomocksports.com/saturdays-schedule-scoreboard-05-11-19/

FHS Panthers

Break the Frame Photo Competition: Vote for your 3 favorite images

"FHS Creative held it's 3rd Annual Break the Frame Photo Competition and we would like your help in choosing the winners! Vote for your 3 favorite images submitted by students and staff"

Vote once with this link:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScrylkZDBNwE--GfNndLn2vNH_7HvptKrYB7SYwY6PqHUF8Tg/viewform

FHS Creative held it's 3rd Annual Break the Frame Photo Competition and we would like your help in choosing the winners! Vote for your 3 favorite images submitted by students and staff: https://t.co/SYZiSa2Y9I@FHSPantherbook @FranklinPSart

— Alyssa Taranto (@MsTaranto) May 9, 2019

Break the Frame Photo Competition: Vote for your 3 favorite images

In the News: Cultural District celebration; new transit grant program pitched

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

"In the famous words of author Neil Gaiman, “The world always seems brighter when you’ve just made something that wasn’t there before.” 

This was the main message Friday at Franklin’s official Cultural District dedication ceremony. And with several speakers sharing the same message, one thing became clear – Franklin residents are always being creative to make the town a brighter place. 

Franklin applied for the status last year after years of building up its programming and making the town a hub for arts and culture."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190511/franklin-celebrates-cultural-district-status

group photo with new sign at Franklin’s official Cultural District dedication ceremony

"State officials were in Framingham on Friday to pitch a new grant program that’s designed to increase workforce transit options throughout the state. 

“Transit is how we get more people to more places with less environmental impact, which is important as we move into the future,” said Astrid Glynn, rail and transit administrator for the Massachusetts Department of Transporation. 

The discussion was hosted by MassDOT, along with the Westborough-based 495/MetroWest Partnership and the Framingham-based MetroWest Regional Transit authority. About 50 people, mainly from area businesses, attended the forum, which was held at MWRTA headquarters on Blandin Avenue."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190511/massdot-pitches-new-transit-grant-program

Franklin Public Library: closed - Sunday, May 12

The Franklin Public Library will be closed on Sunday, May 12 for Mother's Day.

Franklin Public Library: closed - Sunday, May 12

This was shared from the Franklin page
https://www.franklinma.gov/franklin-public-library/bulletins/mothers-day

Regional Dispatch operational this week

"The Franklin Fire Department communications dispatchers have moved to a regional dispatch center. They have moved to the Metacomet Emegency Communications Center located in Norfolk. This now combines police/fire dispatchers from Norfolk, Plainville, Wrentham, and Franklin.

When calling 911 the call will now be answered at the regional dispatch center in Norfolk. When calling our business line (508-528-2323) you will be routed through a phone tree. Please select the option that best fits.

When visiting either of our Station’s (40 West Central St. & 600 King St.) you will notice an intercom call box inside our main entrance. The call box will be answered at the regional dispatch center. Please note that personnel may be away from the station on a call.

For permits, plan review, and business matters you can stop by our Headquarters (40 West Central St.) during our normal business hours: Monday – Thursday 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM and Friday 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM. If you wish to speak with someone regarding a fire prevention related issue then please call our main number (508-528-2323)."

This was shared from the Town of Franklin page
https://www.franklinma.gov/fire-department/urgent-alerts/franklin-fire-department-communications-center-has-moved-regional

Confirmation via Twitter from the Police Dept

Effective at 10am this morning, 911 and dispatch operations for the Franklin Police and Franklin Fire department will switch to the MECC. While this is a monumental change, residents of the Community should not see tremendous impact.

— Franklin Police (@franklinpolice) May 9, 2019

Residents will still call the same telephone numbers, and if they visit the Police Station during most hours will be greeted by a police officer.

— Franklin Police (@franklinpolice) May 9, 2019

In the event the Station has to be left unattended, there is an intercom system in the lobby of the building that will connect directly to the MECC where a dispatcher will be able to talk to them, and help.

— Franklin Police (@franklinpolice) May 9, 2019

As with any change, there may be bumps in the road. The Franklin Police Department is committed to continue to provide the highest level of service to the community. We appreciate your patience if you experience any disruption during the learning phase of this ambitious plan.

— Franklin Police (@franklinpolice) May 9, 2019

This has been a long time coming and is finally here. How long? The archives can help.

• In 2012, the Town Council voted to approve the process to begin the regionalization efforts

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2012/06/save-town-money-and-improve-efficiency.html

• In 2013, legislation was passed to allow for the regional center to be organized

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/06/whats-happening-in-10th-norfolk-district.html

• In 2014, the regional dispatch center received a community challenge grant to help with the organization and planning process

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2014/02/regional-dispatch-center-receives.html

• In 2017, the ground was finally broken for the dispatch center building

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2017/06/this-is-long-overdue.html

Metacomet Emergency Communications Center (Facebook photo)

Beautification Day Scheduled for May 18 - volunteers needed

Volunteers are needed for the Franklin Downtown Partnership and Franklin Garden Club's annual Beautification Day in downtown Franklin and the Town Common on Saturday, May 18.

Community service hours are available to high school sports teams, scout groups and students needing volunteer opportunities. Dozens of volunteers are needed to help plant flowers and greenery on the downtown bridge and in barrels in front of businesses. Volunteers with trucks are also needed to help pick up a few trays of flowers at 7 AM at Fairmount Fruit Farm, 887 Lincoln St., Franklin.

“Every year, we look forward to spring and planting red, white and blue flowers in Franklin,” said Beautification Day Chairperson Eileen Mason. “The flowers extend a warm welcome to the downtown area to both residents and visitors. Please consider helping us plant on May 18 - many hands make light work.”

Anyone who would like to lend a hand can grab their garden gloves and meet at 8 AM in the small commuter parking lot on West Central Street near Central Pizza and Hair Mania. Work is expected to wrap up by 11 AM, or earlier if there are more volunteers. 

The event will go on rain or shine. If you can volunteer, please notify us by email.

Sponsors are still needed for Beautification Day. Please email downtown.franklin@yahoo.com to be listed as a sponsor on signs.

Beautification Day Scheduled for May 18 - volunteers needed

This was shared from the Downtown Partnership page

https://www.franklindowntownpartnership.org/2019/04/beautification-day-scheduled-for-may-18.html

Both FHS boys and girls lacrosse teams post wins

Via HockomockSports, we share the results of the FHS sports action on Friday, May 10, 2019


Boys Lacrosse = Franklin, 9 @ Dover-Sherborn, 8 – Final
– Franklin senior Nitin Chaudhury (three goals, assist) scored the game-winning goal with 26 seconds left and the Panthers’ defense made a final stand to earn a win on the road. The Panthers trailed by two with under four minutes to go but Jacob Alexander won two straight faceoffs, scoring himself off the first one and junior Jake Davis (two goals, two assists) firing a laser into the back of the net to tie the score. 

After Chaudhury’s go-ahead goal, a faceoff violation gave Dover-Sherborn one last chance but the Franklin defense shined and forced a turnover as time ran out. Tim Kolb added two goals, Ben Greco added two assists, and Matt Lazzaro scored once and had one helper. Pat Morrison, Liam Arsenault, Spencer Briggs, Jack Sullivan and Will Harvey shined defensively for Franklin.


Girls Lacrosse = Franklin, 14 vs. Natick, 11 – Final
– Franklin defended home turf with a win over a strong Natick team. Freshman Kate O’Rourke paced the Panthers’ offense with four goals, freshman Stella Regan added two goals, and junior Kelsey MacCallum finished with five points (three goals, two assists). 

Senior Hailey Toolin and junior Alex Field both had strong games defensively, recording two ground balls each while junior Gianna Cameron made seven saves in net.


For the other results around the Hockomock League
https://hockomocksports.com/fridays-schedule-scoreboard-05-10-19/

FHS Panthers

Dean College - Commencement - May 11 at 11:00 AM

Dean College will be celebrating its 153rd Commencement on Saturday, May 11, 2019 at 11:00 AM.

Commencement will occur outdoors RAIN or SHINE.

Commencement speakers include Dr. Paula M. Rooney, Dean College President; Mark D. Boyce, Chairman of the Dean College Board of Trustees; and student speaker Fatima Naidjate.

Commencement will be live streamed beginning at 10:45 AM. Visit www.dean.edu/commencement for the live stream link.

For more information, visit www.dean.edu/commencement

Dean College - Commencement - May 11 at 11:00 AM

Encore Music: Get Your Paws on PawSox Tickets

Join the Encore EnHarmonix for a night of Broadway and Baseball fun

Learn more about EMEF and its goals at www.wesupportmusic.org On behalf of the Encore Music Education Foundation, Inc., the Encore EnHarmonix are performing on Saturday, May 18 at the Pawtucket Red Sox game! Not only can you join us for a fun evening, but YOU can help us raise money for the Foundation with a simple click! Tickets purchased at the dedicated link below include a voucher for concessions at the game, and the proceeds of ticket sales will directly benefit The Encore Music Education Foundation, Inc. Invite your friends, invite your family, and simply click to purchase!  Buy Tickets https://purchase.tickets.com/buy/TicketPurchase?orgid=53855&schedule=list&agency=PRSV_B2B14 Copyright © *2019* *Encore Music Academy and Recording Studios*,  All rights reserved. Provided Email and authorization via registration forms or webform Our mailing address is: Encore Music Academy and Recording Studios 3 Bent St Franklin, MA 02038

Upcoming Events in Franklin, MA: FRI - May 10 to THU - May 16

Friday, May 10

10:00am

 Knitting Group

10:30am

 Happy Feet! (Community Room)

3:30pm

 Cultural District Dedication

6:00pm

 NAHS INDUCTION

6:30pm

 Music Awards Banquet

Saturday, May 11

8:00am

 Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive

8:30am

 Rail Trail 5K

10:00am

 Franklin Historical Museum (Always free)

2:00pm

 Chicka Chicka Celebration! (FOFL) Lorelai and Grace

8:00pm

 Mamie Parris in Concert

8:00pm

 Ordinary Elephant @ Circle of Friends Coffeehouse

Sunday, May 12

 Mother's Day

1:00pm

 Franklin Historical Museum (always free)

Monday, May 13

10:30am

 Move Along

11:00am

 Toddler Playgroup

3:30pm

 Dungeons & Dragons for Kids ( Teen Room)

7:00pm

 OSKEY Tech

Tuesday, May 14

9:30am

 Cool Cruisers

10:30am

 Get Ready for Kindergarten

3:30pm

 French Storytime! (FOFL Room)

6:30pm

 Doggie Tales (FOFL)

6:30pm

 Doggie Tales (FOFL)

6:30pm

 The Etiquette Expert of 1890

7:00pm

 OSKEY Tech

7:00pm

 School Committee

7:30pm

 Franklin Bellingham Rail Trail Committee Public Meeting

Wednesday, May 15

10:30am

 Terrific Toddlers

11:00am

 Toddler Playgroup

2:30pm

 Preschool Play N' Learn (Community Room)

6:30pm

 High Art Opening

7:00pm

 OSKEY Performance

7:00pm

 Franklin Cultural District - Partners Meeting

Thursday, May 16

9:30am

 Baby Tummy Time

10:30am

 Story & Craft

4:00pm

 Franklin Historical Museum (always free)

6:00pm

 Volunteens

7:00pm

 OSKEY Performance

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 - May 10 to THU - May 16

"the declining enrollment helped us, as a community, be able to fund the services people expect”

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

"A good economy should equal a sunny fiscal forecast. 

That’s what many residents believe, said Deputy Town Administrator Jamie Hellen, which is why a cloud of suspicion looms over the town budget’s structural deficit entering fiscal 2020. 

“A lot of people are frustrated. In such a good economy, and a great business climate, how are we in this pickle?” Hellen asked rhetorically. 

The answer includes many factors, some of which are not unique to Franklin, said Hellen. 

According to Hellen, the main culprits of the impending deficit include an increased demand for services, increased health insurance costs, charter school expansion costs, declining school enrollment, other post-employment benefits (OPEP) and the cost of doing business in town outpacing the town’s ability to raise revenue."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190509/franklin-seeks-solution-to-structural-deficit


Other budget related info

Legislative update to Town Council on May 8
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/05/live-reporting-legislative-update.html

State level budget info
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/05/it-is-statement-of-senates-priorities.html

Charter School impact on budget
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/05/charter-school-clarifications-on.html

Inside the proposed FY 2020 budget
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/04/inside-proposed-fy-2020-town-of.html

March 18 Finance Committee FY 2020 budget preview info (audio)
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/03/live-reporting-finance-committee-march.html

Prop 2 1/2 override process
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/05/what-is-process-for-prop-2-12-ballot.html

Rising health care costs drive benefits

How much is the School budget part of the whole Town budget