Sunday, January 16, 2022

Franklin Garden Club Features Program on Interior Plant Landscape Design - Feb 1, 2022

The Franklin Garden Club will sponsor a program on “Interior Plant Landscape Design“ on Tuesday, February 1, at 7:00 p.m. at the Franklin Senior Center, 10 Daniel McCahill Street, Franklin, MA.  The program will be presented by Bellingham resident Jen Kuse, who is experienced in designing indoor and outdoor plantscapes and gardens for both private homes and commercial buildings. She also oversees the highly successful Franklin Food Pantry community garden.  The program is open to the public at no charge.  

Kuse’s presentation will include the following topics: information on the benefits of plants, including tropical plants, the most commonly used interior plants; examples of plants that do the best indoors; conditions and care required for plants; how to deal with common diseases and pest problems; organic methods for integrated pest management; basic design ideas for the home and office; and where to obtain tropical plants.  The program will include an opportunity to obtain plants used in the presentation with proceeds going to the Franklin Food Pantry.

Kuse, a graduate of Dean College, has more than 25 years of experience in designing plantscapes and gardens, primarily through her affiliation with the Interiorscapes Division of Central Nurseries of Johnston, RI 

In addition to its monthly programs, the Garden Club supports several service activities including planting and maintaining the Franklin Town Common gardens and the planters at the Franklin Library, sponsoring an annual scholarship, distributing pine tree seedlings in the elementary schools, and sponsoring special projects with other community organizations. The Franklin Garden Club, founded in 1987, became a member of the Garden Club Federation of Massachusetts in 2015.       

 

Franklin Garden Club Features Program on Interior Plant Landscape Design  - Feb 1, 2022
Franklin Garden Club Features Program on Interior Plant Landscape Design  - Feb 1, 2022

Tri-County students complete wire ties for NASA HUNCH Program

Tri-County RVTHS’s Engineering majors participate in the HUNCH Designing and Prototyping Competition each year and was proud to have three teams of finalists in 2021. Their hard work and dedication was evident to Stacy Hale, HUNCH Founder, when he selected Tri-County as one of the school’s to participate in a special project, the designing and building of EVA Wire Ties. These wire ties are used on the International Space Station (ISS) when an astronaut goes on a spacewalk for a repair. Wire ties are wrapped around cable bundles used during battery replacements.

Hale visited Tri-County in November of 2019 to work with the students for three days. During this time students learned the specific and critical specifications required for the wire ties and created a computer-aided design (CAD). The students worked alongside Stacy building, inspecting, and performing quality control measures to ensure each piece was the exact size and shape required. 

L to R are: Maxwell Rounds (Franklin), Tony Botteri (Walpole), Rick Hamilton (North Attleboro), Stacy Hale (NASA), Tyler McKinnon (Franklin), James Gingras (Millis), Brian Belanger (Plainville)
L to R are: Maxwell Rounds (Franklin), Tony Botteri (Walpole), Rick Hamilton (North Attleboro), Stacy Hale (NASA), Tyler McKinnon (Franklin), James Gingras (Millis), Brian Belanger (Plainville)


Tri-County was one of a handful of schools selected throughout the country to work on this project. Our students from the class of 2021 and 2022 manufactured approximately 250 wire ties using an assembly line process. Most, if not all, are currently being used on the ISS.

Hale returned to Tri-County to have a storage locker used in the ISS signed. The honor is used to recognize the hard work and dedication during the manufacturing. The storage lockers are filled with goods that are being shipped up to the ISS and then used to send refuse back to Earth.

 

  • What is NASA HUNCH?  

NASA High School Students United with NASA to Create Hardware (HUNCH) Program 

The HUNCH mission is to empower and inspire students through a Project Based Learning program where high school students learn 21st century skills and have the opportunity to launch their careers through the participation in the design and fabrication of real world valued products for NASA.  Find out more on the NASA HUNCH web page -> https://nasahunch.com/

Franklin Fire: open burning permits available online

Franklin Fire (@FranklinMAfire) tweeted on Fri, Jan 14, 2022:
Open Burning Season runs from January 15th through May 1st.  You can apply for a permit through our website:  https://t.co/wnJHPBePeU   or -> https://www.franklinma.gov/fire-department/pages/burning-permits-2022

 

Shared from Twitter: https://t.co/F4VTfF7XDA

Franklin Fire: open burning permits available online
Franklin Fire: open burning permits available online


Get ready for taxes: Bookmark IRS.gov resources and online tools to use before, during and after filing

The Internal Revenue Service today (1/14/22) encouraged taxpayers to use IRS online tools and resources to find the information they need to be ready to file their 2021 federal tax returns, including important special steps related to Economic Impact Payments and advance Child Tax Credit payments.

Individuals, especially those who don't usually file a tax return, are urged to file their 2021 tax return electronically beginning Jan. 24, 2022. Using tax preparation software or a trusted tax professional will help guide people through the process and avoid making errors. Filing an incomplete or inaccurate return may mean a processing delay that slows the resulting tax refund.

"There are some simple steps people can take to make sure they avoid delays and receive a quick refund," IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig. "It's critical this year to avoid a paper tax return whenever possible and file electronically with direct deposit. And it's more important than ever to make sure you're filing an accurate tax return. The IRS urges people to review some straightforward tips that can help them avoid problems and get their tax refunds quickly."

This is the third in a series of reminders to help taxpayers get ready for the upcoming tax filing season. A special page, updated and available on IRS.gov, outlines steps taxpayers can take now to make tax filing easier.

IRS.gov tools are easy to use and available 24 hours a day. Millions of people use them to find information about their accounts, get answers to tax questions or file and pay taxes.

Recovery Rebate Credit / Economic Impact Payments
Individuals who didn't qualify for a third Economic Impact Payment or got less than the full amount may be eligible to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit. They will need to know the total amount of their third Economic Impact Payments received to calculate their correct 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit amount when they file their 2021 tax return. Ensuring they use the correct payment amounts will help them avoid a processing delay that may slow their refund. Beginning in late January, the IRS will send Letter 6475 with the total amount of the third Economic Impact Payment received. People can also view their economic impact payments using their Online Account.

Advance Child Tax Credit payments
People will need to know the total amount of advance payments they received in 2021 to compare them with the full amount of the Child Tax Credit that they can properly claim when they file their 2021 tax return. People who received the advance payments can access their online account to check the total amount of their payments. The IRS is also sending Letter 6419 to provide the total amount of advance Child Tax Credit payments received in 2021. Eligible families who did not get monthly advance payments in 2021 can still get a lump-sum payment by claiming the Child Tax Credit when they file a 2021 federal income tax return this year. This includes families who don't normally need to file a return.

Interactive Tax Assistant
The Interactive Tax Assistant answers general tax law questions, including helping to determine if a type of income is taxable or if someone is eligible to claim certain credits and deductions. With changes to income and other life events for many in 2021, tax credits and deductions can mean more money in a taxpayer's pocket. Thinking about eligibility now can help make tax filing easier.

Online Account
Taxpayers can use their Online Account to securely see important information when preparing to file their tax return or following up on balances or notices. Taxpayers can view the amount they owe, make and track payments and view payment plan details. Taxpayers can now also manage their communication preferences to go paperless for certain notices from the IRS, or to receive email notifications when the IRS sends them a new digital notice. They can also access information about Economic Impact Payments and advance Child Tax Credit payments needed to file a complete and accurate return. Act now to create an account.

Where's My Refund?
Taxpayers can check the status of their refund using the Where's My Refund? tool. The status is available within 24 hours after the IRS accepts their e-filed tax return or up to four weeks after they mailed a paper return. The Where's My Refund? tool updates once every 24 hours, usually overnight, so taxpayers only need to check once a day.

Get ready to use direct deposit for tax refunds
Direct deposit gives taxpayers access to their refund faster than a paper check. Individuals can use a bank account, prepaid debit card or mobile app to use direct deposit and will need to provide routing and account numbers. Learn how to open an account at an FDIC-Insured bank or through the National Credit Union Locator Tool. Veterans should see the Veterans Benefits Banking Program for access to financial services at participating banks.

IRS Free File
Everyone can file electronically for free. Starting January 14, the IRS Free File program, available only through IRS.gov or the IRS2Go app, offers brand-name tax preparation software packages. For those who earned $73,000 or less in 2021, they may qualify for Free File guided tax software. The software does all the work of finding deductions, credits and exemptions. Some of the Free File offers may include a free state tax return. Taxpayers comfortable filling out tax forms, can use Free File Fillable Forms, the electronic federal tax forms paper version to file their tax returns online, regardless of income.

Members of the military and qualifying veterans can use MilTax, a Department of Defense program that generally offers free online tax preparation and e-filing software for federal returns and up to three state returns.

Free Tax Return preparation site
The IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs offer free tax help and e-file for taxpayers who qualify.

Choosing a preparer
The IRS has several options for finding a tax preparer. The IRS provides an online database to help taxpayers locate an authorized e-file provider in their area who can electronically file their tax return. Choosing a Tax Professional provides information for selecting a tax professional. The Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications can help taxpayers find preparers in their area who currently hold professional credentials recognized by the IRS, or who hold an Annual Filing Season Program Record of Completion. Taxpayers need to remember that they, not the tax preparer, are responsible for information on their tax return once they sign it.

IRS.gov/getready
Links to online tools, publications, and other helpful resources are available on the IRS.gov/getready page. For more information about planning ahead, see Publication 5348, Get Ready to File and Publication 5349, Year-Round Tax Planning is for Everyone.

Get ready for taxes: Bookmark IRS.gov resources and online tools to use before, during and after filing
Get ready for taxes: Bookmark IRS.gov resources and online tools to use before, during and after filing

Saturday, January 15, 2022

Update: Historical Museum closed through end of January

Late breaking news from the Historical Museum. Unfortunately, they won't be available as an indoor activity this weekend (or the remainder of January). 

"We have decided to close the museum through the end of the month of January. 
Due to the recent spike in COVID cases we thought it best for the health and safety of our volunteer staff, and our visitors, to take a break until things calm down a bit. 
We plan to re-open in early February."
 
Note: Ben Franklin's birthday party had been scheduled for Sunday, Jan 16. 

Franklin Historical Museum, 80 West Central St
Franklin Historical Museum, 80 West Central St 

Community Preservation Committee: Public Hearing - January 18, 2022

Community Preservation Committee Public Hearing 
January 18, 2022


The Community Preservation Committee will be holding a public hearing on January 18, 2022 at 7:10 PM regarding the use of Community Preservation Act funds as it pertains to our community needs. 

Agenda: 

1. Approval of Minutes 

2. Public Hearing #2: a. Citizens hearing for ideas, questions or proposals on how to use the Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds to incorporate into the CPA Plan.

Please find the agenda and links for the meeting here: https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/2022-01-18_cpc_agenda_-_hearing_2.pdf

Community Preservation Committee: Public Hearing -  January 18, 2022
Community Preservation Committee: Public Hearing -  January 18, 2022

Memory Cafe', Wednesday January 19 at 1 PM

Hello All,

Please join us on Wednesday January 19 at 1 PM for our "Where's the toast?" Memory Cafe'.  

Memory cafes are a safe and inviting space for those with memory loss and their families and caregivers to interact and socialize.  This month we have the wonderful and engaging Howie Newman entertaining us.  

Please see the attached flyer and register if you are interested in attending.  
Feel free to pass this information along to those who might be interested in joining us.

Thank you and see you Wednesday!
Ariel


--
Ariel Doggett

Virtual Program Coordinator
Respite Coordinator
Supportive Day Coordinator


"We rise by lifting others" - Robert Ingersoll
There is no act of kindness too small

Download the flyer to share or use as a reminder:

"Where's the toast?" Memory Cafe'.
"Where's the toast?" Memory Cafe'


FHS girls basketball tops Mansfield 60 - 33 on Friday

Via HockomockSports.com, we share the results of the FHS winter sports action on Friday: 

Mansfield, 33 @ Franklin, 60 – Final 
– Franklin hadn’t played in nearly a month, so it took a while for the Panthers to get going, but they then went on a 22-0 run between the second and third quarters to grab hold of the game and stay perfect on the season. Olivia Quinn (four rebounds and three assists) and Stefany Padula (four steals and two blocks) each scored 14 points to lead the Panthers and combined to knock down five threes. Katie Peterson added 12 points, three assists, and a pair of blocks, while Brigid Earley scored nine points. The Hornets were shorthanded with several players out and several just making their return. Abby Wager came off the bench to score a team-high 12 points, all in the second half, and Olivia Salisbury added six points and five rebounds. Rose Maher had six points and eight boards, while Bridget Hanley scored three points but also chipped in with eight rebounds, three steals, and four assists.


Franklin, 38 @ Mansfield, 48 – Final 
Ryan Lanigan, founder and Editor-in-Chief of HockomockSports.com, provides the game recap:
"The solution to Mansfield’s problem was so simple, yet incredibly difficult at the same time. 
The Hornets needed a basket.

With two elite defenses going at it, points were at a premium on Friday night and Mansfield’s 15-point lead over Franklin had dwindled down to three, having scored just four points in a six-minute span between the third and fourth quarters.

Franklin’s attempt at a tying three rimmed out and the Hornets got just what they needed, scoring on three of their next four possessions to finish strong and earn a 48-38 win over the previously undefeated Panthers."


For other results around the Hockomock League
https://hockomocksports.com/fridays-schedule-scoreboard-01-14-22/

Boston Globe coverage of the boys game can be found ->

Emma Souza (24) and Katie Peterson (12) ready for the rebound (HockomockSports.com photo)
Emma Souza (24) and Katie Peterson (12) ready for the rebound (HockomockSports.com photo)


FHS Spectator Code Of Conduct

Friendly reminder on the FHS Spectator Code of Conduct 


Or in this PDF copy (embedded here)




FHS Panthers
FHS Panthers

Reminder game night at Franklin Newcomers & Friends - Jan 19

Not just for Newcomers . . .

Come join your friends and neighbors at the Franklin Newcomers & Friends monthly meeting.  Meet us upstairs at "3" Restaurant on Wednesday, January 19th at 7:30 for Game Night! Following the club updates, we will play some fun, social games to kick off the new year! 

We will also be collecting personal care items and cleaning supplies for the Franklin Food Pantry. Please bring one or more items from the following list:  shampoo (8 oz-24 oz), conditioner (8 oz-24 oz), disposable razors, hand and body lotion (8 oz-24 oz), liquid hand soap (6 oz-24 oz), Scott’s toilet paper (single WRAPPED roll 1000 sheets), cleaning wipes, all purpose cleaner spray (32 oz), ajax or comet cleansers.

Come join us and have fun while you make connections in your community.  We are a multi-generational club offering a wide range of activities for all ages with an emphasis on fun and camaraderie.  We are a member-driven organization and are always excited to welcome new faces and new ideas.

No need to be a newcomer to the area…residents of Franklin (or any surrounding town that doesn't have a Newcomers Club) are welcome to join us. We run our meetings September through May on the 3rd Wednesday of the month (occasionally we switch Wednesdays to accommodate holidays or speakers) upstairs in a private room at “3” Restaurant, 461 W. Central Street, Franklin. 

Complimentary appetizers and beverages are provided and a cash bar is available.
 
Additionally, we hold many fun and varied events to stay connected throughout the year.   Look for us on our Meetup page for more information.   
https://www.meetup.com/Franklin-Newcomers-Friends

Franklin Newcomers & Friends - meeting Jan 19 - a game night!
Franklin Newcomers & Friends - meeting Jan 19 - a game night!