Monday, March 18, 2024

Next Newcomers & Friends meeting features Hellen & Giguere - April 3 - Not just for Newcomers . . .

Join us at our next bi-monthly gathering on Wednesday, April 3, 2024.

Please join us as we host Franklin’s Town Administrator Jamie Helen, and Franklin’s School District Superintendent Lucas Giguere. They’ll be updating us on what’s going on in our town and in our schools. Take advantage of this great opportunity to get answers firsthand … bring your questions!

We’re meeting a week earlier than usual to accommodate our speakers. This is one of our favorite events of the year … join us to learn new things, meet new friends and have fun in our community.

We meet at Escape Into Fiction from 7:00 to 9:00 PM. The bookstore is in downtown Franklin, 12 Main Street. Arrive early to take advantage of their wonderful selection of books, puzzles, games and gifts for all ages. Light refreshments will be served.

Next Newcomers & Friends meeting features Hellen & Giguere - April 3  - Not just for Newcomers . . .
Next Newcomers & Friends meeting features Hellen & Giguere - April 3  - Not just for Newcomers . . .

We are a multi-generational, member-driven organization and are always excited to welcome new faces and new ideas. Residents of Franklin, or any surrounding town that doesn't have a Newcomers Club, are welcome to join us. In addition to our bi-monthly meetings, we hold fun and varied events to stay connected throughout the year.

Look for us on social media for more information: https://www.meetup.com/franklin-newcomers-friends/ https://www.facebook.com/FranklinNewcomersFriendsClub

Sense and Sound Robotics team, based in Franklin, won the MA FIRST Tech Challenge State Championship

Sense and Sound Robotics, a community-based FIRST Tech Challenge robotics team, won the Massachusetts State Championship on March 9 and is advancing to the World Championship in Houston next month to represent the Commonwealth.

The team is made up of 8th through 12th graders from surrounding communities who compete in the FIRST Tech Challenge, a robotics competition where students learn to think like engineers. Teams design, build, and code robots to compete in an alliance format against other teams. Robots are built from a reusable platform, powered by Android technology, and can be coded using Java. 

Sense and Sound Robotics
Sense and Sound Robotics group

A new challenge is presented annually, requiring a new robot build and hours of testing and problem solving. Team members build 2-3 times per week in a lab in Franklin, MA, where they are mentored by local engineers. The students are responsible for all aspects of the robot build and coding, including tracking their efforts in an engineering design notebook. Older students also mentor younger students in physics, math, computer programming, and engineering to create a successful design. 

robot with the 1st place trophy
robot with the 1st place trophy
Each match is three minutes in length and includes a 30 second autonomous period where the robot must be preprogrammed to complete certain tasks, followed by a two and half minute driver-controlled period. 

In this year’s challenge, robots had to pick up and stack different colored multi-sided pixels in various patterns on a backboard. During the last 30 seconds of the match, the robot had to launch a paper airplane into a landing zone and then suspend themselves from rigging on the playing field.

As a community-based team, the Sense and Sound Robotics does not receive any funding from the school or town, and so they have launched a fundraising campaign to raise the $33,000 necessary to compete at Worlds. Expenses include team registration, travel for the team, transport for the robot and supplies, and additional robot parts needed to compete. Both corporate sponsorship and individual donations are welcome. 

Sense and Sound Robotics is a 501c3 organization. You can donate to the team or learn more about sponsorship at www.senseandsoundrobotics.org. You can read more about FIRST Tech Challenge at www.firstinspires.org.

What's this about a possible override for Franklin?

The first pass of the Fiscal Year 2025 (FY 2025) budget as presented to the Joint Budget Subcommittee meeting last week shows the Town of Franklin facing a $10.1 million deficit. The numbers will continue to be worked. As discussed during the meeting, breaking news that afternoon showed a reduction in the projected cost increase for health care that had just been received. That will be adjusted for future budget discussions.


The timeline for the budget development is as follows:

  • School Committee budget public hearing - March 19

  • School Committee votes on school budget recommendation - April 2

  • Town of Franklin FY 2025 budget scheduled for release - April 12

  • Joint Budget Subcommittee - (TBD - possible Apr 17?)

  • Finance Committee budget hearings - May 6, May 8, May 15 (vote)

  • Town Council budget hearings - May 22, May 23 (vote)


If there were to be an override, the decision on “When?” is as critical as “How much”? Election requirements call for 35 days notification of a vote on a ballot question. Hence, a vote scheduled for June would have to be decided no later than early May


Town budget page -> https://www.franklinma.gov/town-budget/webforms/fy-25-budget-materials


School budget page -> 

https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-district-budget/pages/1-fy2025-budget


Recent meetings/documents (most recent on top, scroll down for prior)


Joint Budget Subcommittee meeting - March 6


School Committee Superintendent’s budget - March 5


Visit One Franklin to find out more about the group and their efforts advocating for the override https://onefranklinma.com/

What's this about a possible override for Franklin?
What's this about a possible override for Franklin? 

Franklin High School Varsity Cheerleaders take 1st Place at Nationals

Gigi Zub (@ggzub) posted Sun, Mar 17, 2024:
"Franklin High School Varsity Cheerleaders are your National 1st place and GRAND CHAMPIONS!!

Let's GO @fhsboysbball!! Bring home the State Championship tonight!!!"

@AmeriCheer87 @FHSSports  @FranklinMatters @jphref https://t.co/EvTZQfamZc

Franklin High School Varsity Cheerleaders take 1st Place at Nationals
Franklin High School Varsity Cheerleaders take 1st Place at Nationals

FHS boys basketball fall to Worcester North which remains undefeated to take D1 Title

  • Another trip to the Tsongas Center, this time #3 Franklin (25-1) takes on defending champ and top seed North High (23-0) who has a 44-game win streak, Panthers looking for first title, have won all 4 playoff games by double digits #hockomock
  • End of 1Q: North High 14, Franklin 11, really high level of basketball in the first with both teams aggressive defensively, Caden Sullivan hit a pair of threes and Bradley Herndon with 3 points for the Panthers, Khari Bryan and Amir Jenkins each with 5 for North #hockomock
  • Halftime: Franklin 32, North High 25, Hansy Jacques with a big three off a Justice Samuels assist right before the buzzer, Sullivan up to 13, Herndon with 8 points and 4 assists and Jacques with 7, Jenkins and Teshaun Steele each 7 points for North #hockomock
  • Franklin gets exactly the start to the second half it needed, Sean O’Leary drives and kicks out to Andrew O’Neill for a three and the Panthers extend the lead to 39-27 #hockomock
  • End of 3Q: Franklin 44, North High 41, big spurt for the Polar Bears in the closing minutes to get back within three, Joseph Okla with 12 points and 12 boards for North, Sullivan with 18 for the Panthers #hockomock
  • 57.3 left and another North tip in puts the Polar Bears up 56-51, Amir Jenkins with the tip and he has 10 of his 19 points in the fourth quarter, Panthers with just 7 as a team in the fourth #hockomock
  • Final: North High 59, Franklin 53, Polar Bears complete an undefeated season and win back-to-back D1 state titles, great effort from the Panthers but were never able to match North on the glass and it proved decisive #hockomock
  • Caden Sullivan led Franklin with 24 points and six rebounds, Hansy Jacques had 9 and Bradley Herndon had 8, Amir Jenkins finished with 21 points and 6 assists, Teshaun Steele had 17 and 8 boards, and Joseph Okla had 12 and 12 #hockomock




Franklin junior Caden Sullivan is fouled going up for a layup in the first half against Worcester North in the D1 state final at the Tsongas Center. (Ryan Lanigan/HockomockSports.com)
Franklin junior Caden Sullivan is fouled going up for a layup in the first half against Worcester North in the D1 state final at the Tsongas Center. (Ryan Lanigan/HockomockSports.com)


FHS boys basketball fall to Worcester North which remains undefeated to take D1 Title
FHS boys basketball fall to Worcester North which remains undefeated to take D1 Title


Register O’Donnell Delivered Food Donations to the Franklin Food Pantry

Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell recently delivered donations of food to the Franklin Food Pantry. The contributions came from the Registry staff, title examiners, and the public, who participated in the Registry's Annual Holiday Food Drive which was held from November 14th to December 14th.

 

"On behalf of the many people who contributed to the Registry's food drive, it is my pleasure to deliver these items to the Franklin Food Pantry," stated Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell. "I am thankful that so many Norfolk County residents, including our employees and title examiners, took the opportunity to donate and to help those with hardships during the holiday season."

 

Register O’Donnell Delivered Food Donations to the Franklin Food Pantry
Register O’Donnell Delivered Food Donations to the Franklin Food Pantry

The Registry collected more than 280 pounds of food during the drive, including items such as boxes of spaghetti, jars of sauce, canned soups, and fruits.

"Community donations are a big help and give us a good deal of variety that we wouldn't otherwise have," said Anne McGillis, Operations Director for the Franklin Food Pantry.

Last year, the Franklin Food Pantry helped more than 1,324 individuals in more than 650 households. Of those who received food assistance, more than one in four were children, and 36% were 65 or older.

 

"The food pantries throughout Norfolk County provide a valuable and much-needed resource for residents facing both long-term and temporary hardships, including children, families, and individuals, and I am grateful to be able to help in this small way," said Register O'Donnell.

 

According to Project Bread, household food insecurity in Massachusetts has been fluctuating between 20 and 26%. Many Norfolk County food pantries have seen a significant increase in demand in the last year. ​

"It is a great feeling to be able to help the community and to know that other members of the community understand that there is a need for this," said McGillis.

Franklin residents in need of assistance can register for services, schedule shopping appointments, or schedule home delivery by contacting the Franklin Food Pantry Client Services Coordinator at 508-528-3115.

 

Register O'Donnell concluded, "Hunger does not stop after the holidays it is a persistent issue affecting many of our neighbors. I encourage residents to consider dropping off food supplies at their local pantry. Pantries are requesting canned goods, breakfast cereals, pasta, sauces, toiletries, and paper products. Dropping off a food donation at a local pantry can make a world of difference in helping a family in need."

To see a list of Norfolk County food pantries, visit the Registry of Deeds website: https://www.norfolkdeeds.org/support/FAQs/where-are-the-norfolk-county-food-pantry-locations-142. Donations are needed all year long.

To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives, "like" us on Facebook at facebook.com/norfolkdeeds. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram at @norfolkdeeds.

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, located at 649 High St., Dedham, is the principal office for real property in Norfolk County. All land record research information can be found on the Registry's website, www.norfolkdeeds.org. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center at (781) 461-6101 or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org.

Fallen Hero Recognition: Private First Class Elton E. Ekstrom, U.S. Army - March 18, 2024

Memorial event today (3/18/24) at 9 AM on the Town Common Veterans Walkway to honor Private First Class Elton E. Ekstrom, U.S. Army.

This program will include the placing of a Memorial Wreath for the day, the playing of Taps, a salute from those present, and a reading of whatever history  may be available for that veteran.  This is a way of keeping the memory of that veteran alive.

Fallen Hero: Private First Class Elton E. Ekstrom, U.S. Army

Private First Class Elton E. Ekstrom, U.S. Army, was born on November 11, 1918 to August and Hannah Ekstrom. Elton lived with his parents, four sisters and three brothers at 417 Lincoln Street. 
Elton attended the Franklin Public Schools and for a number of years lived on Lincoln Street and maintained his residence there after his marriage to the former Arlene Beals. Elton and Arlene were the parents of two sons, Paul and Elton, Jr. Paul graduated from West Point and served two tours of duty as an army helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War. Elton, Jr. also served in the army during the Vietnam War Era. 
PFC Elton E. Ekstrom served in the 87th Infantry Division of General Patton’s Third Army during the Rhine River crossing into Germany. Details of the Rhine River crossing as provided by Barbara Strang, 87th Infantry Division Historian, are as follows: “The assault boats of the 347th Battalion crossed the Rhine after midnight on March 25th. The Germans opened up with everything they had from the steep banks on the opposite side. Numerous boats were hit resulting in many casualties. Further assaults occurred at Rhens, Boppard, and Oberlahanstein.” 
Private First Class Elton E. Ekstrom was killed by machine gun fire on March 18, 1945 at age 26 while in combat crossing the Rhine River.

 

For the full series of Fallen Heroes you can visit this link
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/08/franklin-fallen-heroes-series.html

FH_Ekstrom
Fallen Hero: PFC Elton Ekstrom

The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 259 - "Dream of Italy" with Kathy McCabe (audio)

Exploring all things wine with you! In this episode Kim and Mark "Dream of Italy" with Kathy McCabe.

Welcome to another exciting episode of The Wonderful World of Wine(WWW)!  We sit down with the delightful Kathy McCabe, the host of PBS's captivating show, “Dream of Italy." Kathy takes us on a journey through the enchanting landscapes, rich culture, and delectable flavors of Italy.

Here are the highlights from our conversation:

1. The Birth of "Dream of Italy”
Kathy shares the fascinating story of how her show came to life. From her love for Italy to the inspiration behind the series, we delve into the magic that birthed "Dream of Italy."

2. Season 3 Adventures
In the latest season, Kathy had the privilege of meeting some incredible personalities:
   Andrea Bocelli  The renowned tenor and his passion for music and wine.
   Marisa Tomei  An Oscar-winning actress who shares her love for Italy.
   Chef Massimo Bottura Culinary genius and master of authentic Italian dishes.

3. Brushing Shoulders with Legends
   Kathy spills the beans on her encounters with two legends:
   Francis Ford Coppola The iconic filmmaker and winemaker.
   Sting Yes, the rock legend himself, who has a deep connection to Italy and wine.

4. Travel and Wine Tips
Kathy imparts valuable advice for travelers seeking the ultimate Italian experience. From hidden gems to must-visit vineyards, she's got you covered.

5. Sneak Peek “Dream of Europe"
Get ready for Kathy's upcoming show, where she'll explore the wonders of Europe beyond Italy. It's a tantalizing glimpse into the continent's diverse cultures, landscapes, and, of course, its wines.

So grab your favorite glass of vino, tune in, and let Kathy whisk you away to the dreamy world of Italy and beyond! 

Cheers

Kim and Mark

#wine #italy #dreamofitaly #thewonderfulworldofwine #podcast #wfpr 

Episode 259-Kathy McCabe-PBS Dream of Italy Host Interview by The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW)

The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 259 - "Dream of Italy" with Kathy McCabe (audio)
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 259 - "Dream of Italy" with Kathy McCabe (audio)



Franklin Agway: 30% off! We might close sooner than April 6, come in today!


All good things come to an end. 
Thank you for being a part of the story.

Sales 3/17/2024 - 4/6/2024

MOST OF STORE ON SALE  March 17-23 30% OFF
MOST OF STORE ON SALE  March 24-30 40% OFF
       MOST OF STORE ON SALE  March 31-April 6 50% OFF

  • Clothing and boots (except Sloggers) 50%
  • All pots/planters 40%
We will be closed Mondays and Tuesdays going forward.
We may close before April 6th so come in today!

We will be closed Sunday March 31 2024.

Excluding grain, livestock feeds and propane.
All sales final. While supplies last. 


Thank you,
The Agway Crew

Our mailing address is:
Franklin Urban Farm Store dba Franklin Agway
157 Cottage St
Franklin, MA 02038-2403

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What's happening at the Senior Center this week?

Here’s what’s happening this week at the Franklin Senior Center! #franklinma #seniorcenter #whatshappening #spring

Franklin TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) schedule for Monday, Mar 18, 2024

  • wfpr.fm or 102.9 on the FM dial = Monday

9 AM 12 PM and 6 PM Talkin’ the Blues – Jim Derick & Nick Remissong
2 hours of awesome blues music, info, interviews

11 AM 2 PM and 8 PM A More Perfect Union – Discussing American Politics and Current Events - Peter Fasciano, Dr. Michael Walker Jones, Dr. Natalia Linos, State Rep Jeff Roy, and Nick Remissong hold a round table discussion on current events and American politics, bringing about thoughtful conversation, compelling discourse, and a look at what the future might hold for the United States.

  • Franklin All Access TV - Our Public Access Channel (Comcast 6, Verizon 26) = MONDAY

8:00 am SAFE Coalition: Michelle Palladini
9:00 am The Millis Berfield Band
12:00 pm Brook'n'Cookin: Brownies
12:30 pm Second Sunday Speaker Series: Valentine Cards
1:00 pm Cooking Thyme: Grillin'
1:30 pm Pizzapalooza: Meat-Lovers Pt. 1
2:00 pm New England Candlepins: Summer 2018 Show 5
3:00 pm Candlepin New Generation: Spring 2019 Show 2
3:30 pm Veterans' Call: Dave Hencke
4:30 pm Norfolk County Prevention Coalition: L. E. A. P.
5:00 pm Winning Ways with the MIAA: Districts
6:00 pm Extended Play Sessions: Season 10 Show 2 - Paul Kelly
7:00 pm Frank Presents: Brian Cousins
9:00 pm Circle of Friends: Joe Jencks

  • Franklin Pride TV - Our Educational Channel        (Comcast 8, Verizon 28) = MONDAY

10:00 am FHS Pops Night 2023
11:30 am Public School Event: FHS Summer Music 2021
2:30 pm SAFE Coalition: The Hamlins
4:00 pm FHS Girls Varsity Basketball v Andover 02-29-24
6:00 pm Winning Ways with the MIAA: Districts
7:00 pm FHS Boys Varsity Basketball v Catholic Memorial 03-12-24
9:00 pm FHS Theater Company: Cinderella

  • Franklin Town Hall TV - Our Government Channel (Comcast 9, Verizon 29) = MONDAY

8:00 am Planning Board 03-11-24
12:00 pm Economic Development 03-13-24
2:00 pm Planning Board 03-11-24
6:00 pm Joint Budget Subcommittee 03-06-24

Get this week's program guide for Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) online  http://franklin.tv/programguide.pdf  

Sunday, March 17, 2024

FHS boys basketball game live broadcast via Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm/)

Franklin TV  posted Sun, Mar 17, 2024:


If you cannot make it to Lowell today, you can listen to the Franklin Public Radio live broadcast. 
Go to https://wfpr.fm/ and click on the "hear here" link. 
Pre Game to start around 5:45 PM

Franklin PorchFest extends registrations to April 30. More than 24 bands registered so far!

Franklin PorchFest … the momentum is building and we are thrilled with the initial response! We are up to 24 bands and counting. Local businesses are getting in on the excitement; for example, Intermission will be open during the entire event for anyone looking for a bite to eat between performances. Other eateries are hosting musicians and extending service to outside areas. There has also been tremendous interest in hosting musicians.

To accommodate so many requests, we are extending our registration through April 30th for both porch hosts and performers. If you are interested in participating you still have time to sign up.

If you would like to host a band or performer on your Porch or if you have a band or are a performer and would be interested in performing at Franklin PorchFest, go to our website https://franklin.porchfest.info and register for the event. All the information you need to register is on our website. Also on our website you will find links so you can follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Franklin PorchFest is made possible with funds granted from the Mass Cultural Council through the Franklin Cultural District Committee. The Franklin PorchFest Committee is thankful for the support it has received from the Cultural Council, the Cultural District and the Town of Franklin.

Franklin PorchFest will be held Saturday, June 1st from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM with a rain date of June 2nd. Save the date . . . we look forward to seeing you!

Made possible by a grant from Mass Cultural Council through the Franklin Cultural District Committee
Made possible by a grant from Mass Cultural Council through the Franklin Cultural District Committee

Ji-Yann Chin has won The Friends of Franklin Library Scholarship in Memory of Wilma Winters

Ji-Yann Chin has won The Friends of Franklin Library Scholarship in Memory of Wilma Winters. A 2023 graduate of Franklin High School, Ji-Yann recently received $1,000 toward the cost of a college education.

Students were asked to write an essay about what gives them hope for the future. In her essay, Ji-Yann wrote about some of the frustrations she felt growing up in Franklin. “Nobody pronounced my name right. … and Lunar New Year was never acknowledged. But over time, this all changed.”

At Franklin High, for example, several teachers asked Ji-Yann to email them voice memos so that they could learn to properly pronounce her name. “The fact that so many teachers are using technology as a tool to pronounce their students’ names correctly gives me hope for the future,” Ji-Yann wrote in the winning essay.

Ji-Yann, a first-year student at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst, is studying both microbiology and public health. 

The Friends of Franklin Library, an independent, non-profit organization committed to supporting the Franklin Public Library, established its scholarship program in 2014. The annual scholarship is part of several efforts undertaken to honor the late Wilma Winters, a longtime Franklin resident and library supporter. Winters, who had a long career in higher education, worked for many years as a librarian, including at Boston University Medical School and Harvard’s School of Public Health. She spent her retirement years volunteering at the Franklin Public Library.

The scholarship will be awarded again this year to a member of the Class of 2024.

Members of the Friends of Franklin Library’s board recently presented Ji-Yann Chin with a check for winning the Friends’ annual essay contest
Members of the Friends of Franklin Library’s board recently presented Ji-Yann Chin with a check for winning the Friends’ annual essay contest