In Other News

1974 Franklin Ladybug Kids Wanted for 50th Reunion

The 50th anniversary of the famous Kennedy School second graders that lobbied the state government to make the ladybug the state’s official insect, is almost here. It is being celebrated on April 20 with a Franklin Downtown Partnership Ladybug Trail Walk that starts at the Franklin Historical Museum and that location is also hosting a Festive 50th
Celebration from 11:30 to 1, including former State Rep. Robert Ficco (who sponsored the legislation), current State Rep Jeff Roy, family members of the teacher that made it all happen, the late Palma Johnson, and of course, the “kids” – all now well into their 50s. Some are rumored to be coming from as far as Virginia for the event but many more still need to be contacted. If you know one or see one, contact Historical Commission Chair, Alan Earls at alan.r.earls@gmail.com

Beaver Street Interceptor Newest Detour

The contractor has made great progress this week, so starting Monday April 8th Old West Central between Rt. 140 to Pond Street will be back open to two-way traffic. The dead-end section of Old West Central serving Ledgewood Condominiums and Franklin Crossing will continue to be closed at Tri-County Drive. Those residents will continue to use the right hand turn only detour onto Rt 140 by the Dunkin Donuts. For Monday only, the entrance to Tri-County Drive at Old West Central will remain closed. All Tri-County traffic will need to enter and exit via the Pond Street Entrance.

Wrentham Parents Cry Foul

In a long-running saga not unlike the sometimes fractious relations between some parents and the School Committee here, parents in the mother town campaigned for years to implement a policy that teachers be asked to not impose their personal and political views on students, especially given the enormous power such educators have over the young people in their classrooms. The policy seemed to have finally passed but, according to Wrentham sources, a fiery mix of union members and some parents, threatened to rain down all manner of troubles if the policy was implemented. So, instead, the chair simply ‘tabled’ it, a sort of pocket veto that obviates all that work. So, back to square one for those concerned and frustrated parents.

Where the Sun Don’t Shine

The eclipse will not only absorb human attention and spook domestic and wild animals – it will also substantially disrupt the production of electricity from solar sources across a wide region. ISO New England, the manager of the region’s grids, has been running simulations and prepping alternative sources, including no doubt the much maligned peakers in Medway and Bellingham. If all goes to plan, no one will notice any lights flickering. That’s the hope, anyway.

Tickets on Sale for 9th Annual Empty Bowls Dinner to Support the Franklin Food Pantry

Tickets for the 9th Annual Empty Bowls Dinner are on sale now! The event will be held on Thursday, May 23, 2024, at the Franklin High School cafeteria from 6 to 8 pm. The Empty Bowls Club students have been hard at work making hundreds of bowls for this upcoming community event. There will be a simple dinner of soup and bread, music from FHS students, a ceramic bowl for each attendee, a silent auction, and more. All proceeds from the event will support the Franklin Food Pantry. Online tickets are $22 for adults and $12 for students/children 18 years old and younger. Prices increase to $25/$15 respectively at the door on the day of the event.

Click HERE to purchase tickets.